“Forgive me for being indelicate, but are you quite alone? Your situation would warrant a companion, or at the very least, a maid.”
She straightened as tall as her small stature allowed. “I am travelling back to my father’s estate.” She swallowed audibly. “There is no one else.”
“You have my condolences.” He offered in a low tone.
He saw her quickly blink away tears. “Many have lost loved ones. I am merely the most recent in a long line of broken hearts and families.”
Entering into a well-lit room, she spied a black armband on his sleeve and black trim on his sister’s garments.
“I extend my condolences to you both, as well.” The young woman rested her hand on her swollen belly.
“Thank you. My wife. It was not completely unexpected.”
“That does not make it any easier.”
“It does not,” he agreed. “My sister and I are on our way to town. This is a temporary stop for us, to change over the horses andpartake of some refreshments. We should be happy to have you join us when we resume our journey.”
“You are very kind, sir.” There was a questioning look in her eyes and a half smile twitched on her lips. He waited, the moment growing into an uncomfortable silence.
Then, she offered a shallow curtsey, “I am Mrs Elizabeth Carrington.”
Darcy started. “Do forgive me.” He offered her a low, formal bow. “Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley, in Derbyshire. This is my sister, Miss Georgiana Darcy.”
Both ladies curtseyed and greeted one another.
“Pray, be seated. Georgiana, I shall speak with the innkeeper and order tea and sandwiches.”
“Very good, Brother. We shall remain here and await your return.”
He nodded at her and exited the room, closing the door behind him.
Miss Darcy and Elizabeth sat in worn, but comfortable chairs by the fireplace. It was a warm day in the month of May, and the room was comfortable, not requiring a fire.
“I am quite envious, Miss Darcy. I always wanted an older brother. He seems to take great care of you.”
Georgiana stiffened at the beginning of Elizabeth’s words but had relaxed by their warm conclusion. “I am most fortunate. He is the best brother, and so good to me. I can honestly say he is the very best of men.”
“He is certainly a kind one. You both are. I am truly grateful for your condescension.” She shivered. “My mind was elsewhere, and I had no notion of the… attention my presence had garnered in the public room.”
A sharp knock on the door heralded Darcy’s return. “Tea should be here shortly.”
He joined them, standing and leaning an elbow on the mantle. His eyes once again took in her form, before inquiring further. “Where does your family reside? In which direction do you travel?”
“My father’s estate, Longbourn, is a mile outside Meryton. A small town off the North road.”
“I know of it,” he nodded. “There shall be no problem taking you there. It is on our way, and we are in no hurry.”
“It is good of you, sir, but I do not wish to inconvenience you. I have already purchased a ticket for the post coach.” She shifted uncomfortably in her seat.
Georgiana leant forward to rest her hand briefly on Elizabeth’s. “Pray, allow us to offer our carriage. I shall rest easier knowing you made it safely home.”
Elizabeth clasped the younger woman’s hand and gave it a squeeze. “Then all I shall say is, thank you.”
Another knock sounded on the door. This time it was a maid with the tea, which she carried to a round table beside the windows. Mr Darcy assisted his sister to a chair by the table. Elizabeth moved at a slower pace and Darcy helped her to a seat before sitting himself. The maid had set out the tea, sandwiches and small cakes, and exiting the room, closed the door quietly behind her.
Georgiana poured the tea, asking Elizabeth’s preference. For a brief time, all three busied themselves with drinking their tea and nibbling on the fare offered.
Elizabeth shifted once more in her seat, and this time let out a long breath as well. Before Darcy could speak, she did. “I must ask if it is common practice for you to rescue damsels in distress as you travel up and down our great land.” He perceived the glint of humour in her large, dark eyes.
