“If you did not wish to attend, I would have been happy to send our regrets.”
“It is not- that is, I am happy to attend. They have always been very kind to us and Mrs Sheffield always shares a story about Mother from when they were girls growing up.” She sighed. “Is it always like this?”
“You refer to the Season?” Darcy understood exactly what his sister meant. At her nod, he continued, “I have always found it challenging, but I am not the most sociable person.”
“I fear I am the same.” They shared a commiserating smile.
“Our season has not been all bad.”
“No, indeed. Elizabeth and Jane are the best part of the season. I feel fortunate to have their friendship.”
He could not but agree. “So, no gentleman has caught your interest?” He made both his tone and his expression stern.
“Brother,” soft laughter followed her reproach. “I am not seeking to marry any time soon.”
“That is good to know. As I am not ready to be rid of you just yet.”
Identical sighs punctured the silence. “The Season is almost over. Shall we think of decamping to Pemberley once the Matlock ball is over and done with?”
“Perhaps with houseguests for the summer? It would be wonderful to hear children’s laughter echoing down the halls of Pemberley.”
In the dark of the carriage, Darcy Smiled. “Perhaps.”
~ / ~
Carrington House
Elizabeth had spent a longer time putting Alex to bed. She rocked him while singing old nursery songs from her own childhood.
When she returned downstairs, Mr Pikewell approached her. He held a silver salver, with letters lying on top. “Sent over with Mrs Gardiner’s compliments, madam.” He gave a shallow bow.
“Thank you, Mr Pikewell.” She glanced through them on her way to the drawing room, where Jane sat embroidering.
“A letter from Kitty was sent from the Gardiners, Jane.” The other was from Charlotte. “Shall I read it aloud?”
With Jane’s happy agreement, Elizabeth began.
Longbourn
Meryton
Dear Lizzy,
An Earl? Alex is an Earl!? I am the aunt of an earl??
It has been a week, and I still cannot believe it. However came this to be? I recall your husband had been the son of an earl, but he had older brothers. My word, an Earl. Mama would have been all aflutter.
We did not share this news, but word spread as soon as someone saw it written up in the newspaper.
Shall I tell you of all the visitors to Longbourn? We had more in a single week, than our drawing room had seen this last year combined. Poor Papa was quite put out. I insisted he sit with me, as I did not feel up to hosting all our neighbours by myself. Mrs Hill was a marvel. She had the tea refreshed and the visitors in and out on a ten-minute rotation. I am sure I heard her mutter ‘vultures’ at one point under her breath. It was really quite droll.
Lizzy, to reward Papa for his good behaviour, I asked him if he would teach me to play chess. I am not very good at it yet, but Papa seemed pleased.
Pray, write and let us know how you and Jane are getting on in your new circumstances.
Love,
Kitty
