Elizabeth contemplated, “It was… complicated. But the more time I spent in his company, the more I enjoyed and respected his mind and the choices and decisions he had made for his own life.”
She shifted the baby to feed from her other side and continued speaking when he settled again. “He was a third son, you see, and needed to make his own way in the world. I met a couple of his officers, and they showed him a great deal of respect. I believe that was what decided me.”
“What do you mean?”
“Well, when you ask tenants and servants what their opinion of your brother is, how might they respond?”
“Oh, William is very highly thought of.”
Elizabeth smiled at her. “I suspected as much. He cares for people. As do you. My husband was respected by his men, but they also held him in high esteem.”
“I imagine it is similar to my cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam and the men he leads into battle.”
“Just so. Therefore, I knew I could trust him with my life and well-being.”
“What about love?” Georgiana’s eyes were steadfast on Elizabeth’s face.
“I cared for him, and I believe love could have come in time, though I suppose it does not matter now. I was notified of his death in January, but he died during a skirmish many weeks before. Forgive me, Georgiana. Speaking of this so openly is quite inappropriate.” Elizabeth rocked the baby in her arms to find comfort for herself.
“No, please, I apologise if I made you uncomfortable, but, well… I imagine this is what it is like to have a sister. To be able to talk about issues of the heart,” Georgiana blushed.
Elizabeth pressed the younger woman’s hand. “Yes, and you are as easy to speak to as my dear sister, Jane.”
“Is she a younger sister?”
“No. She is the oldest, then me, then Mary and Kitty. Our youngest died a few years ago.”
“Oh. I am so sorry.”
“It was an accident.” Shaking her head and squaring her shoulders Elizabeth continued, “Jane and I were always close. She is the kindest woman you shall ever meet. Though I fear life has altered her perspective from what it used to be.” Elizabeth gave a little shiver. “Enough of me. I believe you mentioned you and your brother spent a good deal of time travelling?”
“Oh, yes!”
And they spent another half an hour with Georgiana describing to Elizabeth all about their travels in the north and the wonderful sights and people they met.
“I admit to being painfully shy, at first. Spending that time with Brother, and meeting so many different people, helped me emerge a bit from my shell. We are a naturally reticent family, but I no longer fear my own shadow.”
“That is well. You are a wonderful young lady, both intelligent and compassionate. These are fine characteristics to have.”
The young ladies smiled at each other, then turned the conversation to lighter topics for a while. Watching the infant as he slept or holding him to rock him when he fussed. The afternoon passed quickly and neither paid any attention to the time until Hannah returned.
Georgiana jumped to her feet. “I did not notice how late it was. I hope I did not keep you from your rest.”
“No, I was happy to visit with you. I can only hope your brother is not upset with my keeping you to myself all day.”
Georgiana could only give her a wide-eyed look before rushing out the door, praying her brother will not be vexed with her.
Georgiana quickly changed for the evening meal with her maids help. “Has my brother been looking for me, Wilson?”
“No, Miss Darcy. I believe he went out to ride earlier.”
Georgiana sighed in relief., “Good. That is good.”
She entered their shared sitting room to find Darcy already there. “Good evening, Brother. Did you have a good ride?”
“I did. And did you have a pleasant afternoon?” He lifted one brow. “You were a long while visiting with Mrs Carrington.”
Georgiana blushed, “We started talking and I lost track of the hour. It was wonderful, Will. I know Anne was my sister, but she was so quiet and retiring. Speaking with Elizabeth is like having a friend my own age. She is such a warm person and so understanding.”
