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“You are too kind,” she whispered. “I know that I am not an accomplished lady. I must complete my education and discover a way to be less timid with people. Nevertheless, I dream of the day when we shall also discuss some of your troubles, not just mine!”
She was amazed by her courage and the liberty she took with him, though he always advised her to be truthful and speak directly from her heart. It was a rather difficult thing to do. Nevertheless, for some time now, she had observed in her brother some changes that she occasionally interpreted as a need to be heard and even to share confidences. In the past her brother could never speak about his problems.
“Perhaps you are right, Georgiana. I still think of you as a young girl, even after your introduction to society. It is difficult to remember that you have grown up, but I shall try, I give you my word.”
For both of them, this was an engaging conversation. He had borne the tale of Elizabeth within his heart for so long, unable to divulge any secrets. That was his nature, unlike Bingley, who could easily confide in a stranger. He kept all things to himself, and sometimes, the secrets became an unbearable weight.
“Have you ever pondered,” he enquired of Georgiana, “that I shall eventually take a wife?”
His emotion was palpable, almost trembling. It was the first time he had initiated such a private discussion. He had realised some time ago that he must speak with her about the matter. She was too devoted to him, and he dreaded that she would suffer because of his marriage. He had first pondered the issue when he had resolved to propose to Elizabeth. But as she had declined, such a subject had become unnecessary for a while.
Nevertheless, it was inevitable that he would marry, and it was better for Georgiana to prepare for such an eventuality.
“I have!” Georgiana replied, blushing with pleasure and a certain unease. “Do you have such a possibility in mind?”
Darcy laughed heartily and took her hand.
“Indeed, I do have in mind such a possibility, as you put it! We all nurture thoughts of marriage. I hope you, too, have such thoughts!”
He was teasing her in the manner she knew so well.
“I wish you to know that no matter what changes may come, you will always hold the same place in my life. I am concerned that you will forget me once you are wed!”
Georgiana sprang from her seat and drew near him, leaning her head upon his shoulder as she had often done.
“How can you say that!”
“It is not a dreadful thing. It is how life is. One begins a new life, and many changes must be made for those from one’s past to adjust. And that is what we shall do.”
“Will you promise to tell me when you decide to marry?” she asked.
Darcy laughed and took her into his embrace. “Well, little one, it will be rather complicated to hide such an event from you!”
“You are always teasing me!” she said, playfully scolding him.
“Indeed, I am!” he replied. “But only because I wish you to mature and banish your timidity. You are so intelligent and cultivated that you could shine in society. Yet, you blush and keep your gaze fixed upon the ground. I want you to look around and seek out a model, a woman somewhat older than you, and observe how a young lady must be audacious, entertaining, and unafraid to advocate for her beliefs.”
“Let us find you a wife, dear brother, and I am sure I shall have much to learn from her. You would choose a lady with all those qualities,” Georgiana replied, her face still hidden against his shoulder. Her words touched him deeply; she trusted his judgement and thought so well of him.
He had chosen the most accomplished lady, yet she had refused him. Darcy’s heart was once again beset by remorse and melancholy. Still, he did not wish to spoil his sister’s pleasure and thus allowed her to continue their conversation.
“Dear sister, if you were to choose a bride for me, who would you propose?” asked Darcy whilst Georgiana sprang up from his embrace, exhibiting a childish exuberance despite her status as a young lady.
“She must be well educated!” she said, her face earnestly contemplative.
Despite his heavy heart, Darcy laughed softly as he asked her, “Why is that so?”
“Because I cannot imagine you spending your days at the mercy of a lady who speaks only of frivolous trifles and idle gossip,” responded Georgiana.
“You make a valid point, my dear,” he replied, his tone now calmer. “However, I fear you have significantly reduced the number of eligible candidates in our society!”
Georgiana grinned cunningly, causing Darcy to wonder when his little sister had grown into this fine young lady. “Indeed, the list may have dwindled somewhat. We can strike off Caroline Bingley, Lady Amelia, and the usual ladies we encounter in society,” she said.
“Do you find Miss Bingley to be vain?” asked Darcy.
“Yes, and rather unkind at times,” declared Georgiana, her tone adamant.
Darcy let out a slight gasp upon hearing such a vehement remark. “You may not be entirely wrong. You speak a little too plainly, but you are correct, in essence. And what of Rowena Watson?” he asked.
