“Understanding?” he asked in some alarm, afraid what his sister might have revealed.
“Oh, I only mean, we can discuss things we think and feel. I love you, William, but sometimes a girl needs to speak with another female.”
“Ah. No, you have not had much female companionship, have you? Especially not over the past several years.”
“I am not complaining, I assure you. It is just nice to have it now. I hope we will be able to stay in contact when we continue our journey.”
Darcy made a non-committal noise and changed the subject. “There is good riding in the area should you wish to join me. I am sure another mount and a sidesaddle could be found for your use.”
“Perhaps. Can I see how Elizabeth is feeling tomorrow?”
Darcy smirked. “So, I am second fiddle to a relative stranger and a newborn baby, am I?”
“Second fiddle to a youngfemalerelative stranger, brother. That is the pertinent fact.” Georgianna smiled impishly at him.
His heart leapt at seeing his sister looking so happy and teasing him. Perhaps spending time with Mrs Carrington was not such a bad idea. For now. After all, they will probably not see her again once their paths split ways.
~ / ~
The next day, Mrs Hobbs was pleased with Elizabeth’s recuperation.
“No fever, dearie. Ye are well on yer way to recoverin’.”
“Does this mean I may travel to Longbourn?”
“Nay. ’Tis too soon for that, but per’aps ye may wish to see the outdoors a bit today?”
“Oh, yes. That would indeed be wonderful.”
“It looks ta be a sunny day, ye might step outside for a short walk. Get yer legs stronger. If it stays warm, we might even set ye up with a bath.”
“Mrs Hobbs, you are the very harbinger of hope and joy, this day. I cannot thank you enough.”
“You keep gettin’ stronger an’ we’ll have ye goin’ home in no time.”
Elizabeth was blinking sudden tears in her eyes. She grabbed one of the older woman’s hands and held it between both of hers. “I really cannot express my gratitude for all your kind assistance. If it were not for you…” she shook her head, unable to continue speaking.
“Come now, dearie. Seeing you and young master Gregory Alexander hale an’ hearty is all the thanks I be needin’.”
Georgiana was at her door soon after breakfast.
“I have received clemency and am being let out today. As long as the sun remains warm.” Elizabeth looked decidedly hopeful for the event.
“Elizabeth, that is wonderful news.” They hugged briefly.
Leaning back, Elizabeth took Georgiana’s hands in hers. “Just imagine. Hearing the leaves rustle as the wind blows through the trees. Feeling the sun on my face. To be able to stretch my legs. Oh, I could run… Well, I would more likely trip and fall, and I promised to be careful.” She beamed at her young friend. “Care to join me?”
“Very much so.” Then her face fell. “Brother suggested I join him for a ride today.”
“Then you should go. You have also been cooped up. I do not ride, but if it is something you enjoy…”
Georgiana looked torn.
“Why do you not see what your brother plans for you both? I shall go for my walk during the warmest part of the day. Mayhap you and your brother could ride before or after our walk?”
Georgiana clapped her hands. “I will ask him. He has been left too much alone these past couple of days. Maybe, we can all share the evening meal together, as well.”
“Oh. I am not sure about-”
