Page 70

“Have you any fond memories of Camberworth?”

“I suppose I do, although I do not recall. My mama often reminds me that Grandfather Carlton particularly enjoyed the season. If I recall anything of my past Christmases at Camberworth, it is feelings of sadness.” Ben’s face became wistful, reflecting his attempt to gather the wisps of memories. “I believe I must have suffered my grandfather’s absence.”

“I imagine you did indeed. Even though I was a bit older than you when Grandfather and Grandmother Fitzwilliam passed away, I always suffer their absence, especially at Christmastime.”

Ben placed his small hand on Darcy’s cheek. “Do you miss your parents at Christmastime, as well?”

“Indeed, I do.”

The drawn, faraway look in Darcy’s eyes concerned young Ben. “I am sorry, Da.”

“What have you to be sorry about?”

“I did not intend to make you sad.”

“You did not. My memories of my parents are all happy ones.”

“I do not believe I will be as sad as I was last Christmas ever again.”

“Last Christmas, Ben? Why were you saddened? Did you not enjoy your first Christmas at Longbourn?”

“I might have if not for the unpleasant thought that I might never see you again after having only just met you. I never wish to feel that way again.”

“Life offers no such guarantees, Ben. But you need not worry. Remember what I told you when we parted in Kent—you and I will always carry each other in our hearts. We are family, as long as we live. Nothing will separate us.

“I have a feeling this Christmas at Pemberley will be memorable,” Darcy promised.

“With a house the size of Pemberley, I should imagine all our family might be well settled here. Would you like that, Da?”

“Christmas is a time for family.”

“My sentiments, exactly.” Ben climbed down from Darcy’s lap.

“Where are you off to?”

“I am on a mission.”

“You are? Do you care to elaborate on the details?”

“No, it shall be a great surprise!”

“What about your riding lesson?”

“May I be excused from my lesson this morning? My mission is urgent!”

“Perhaps, this once.”

“Oh! Thank you, sir.”

Ben poked his head inside Elizabeth’s sitting room. He found her studying the household ledgers. He stood directly behind her before she became aware of his presence.

“Ben, what are you doing here? Is it not time for your riding lesson?”

“Indeed it is; however, Da gave me permission to forego the lesson this morning. I am on a mission.”

“A mission, you say? Is it a secret mission, or are you at liberty to discuss the details with me?”

“Oh no, I cannot say what is the purpose of my mission. You must trust me.”