Elizabeth removed her bonnet, taking in her childhood home. She could remember a time when the house clambered with noise, giggles, squabbling and running feet. Now, it was as still as a tomb.
She watched the gentlemen enter the parlour and turned to Mrs Hill, who had stayed near her. “Mrs Hill.”
“Miss Lizzy. Forgive me, Mrs Lizzy.” The two women shared a smile and a hug. “I am glad you are well. We were very worried for you.”
Elizabeth squeezed her hand. “Thank you, Mrs Hill. How has… how are my father and sister?” Her brows rose in inquiry at the faithful servant.
“They are getting along, Mrs Lizzy. It’s been quiet here, especially with Miss Kitty with the Gardiners. Now, go on in. Miss Jane has been anticipating your arrival all day.”
“Has she?”
“Aye, that kind Mr Darcy sent an express informing us you would be arriving today. Tea will be brought in shortly.”
Elizabeth nodded and entered the parlour. Jane was seated holding Alex, with Georgiana beside her. Her father was standing next to Darcy, and the two men were a visual contrast. One, was tall, dark haired and in the prime and health of his life. The other was hoary and stooped by age, sorrow and disappointment. Elizabeth barely recognised him as her father.
“Elizabeth, come and sit, you must be so tired.” Jane stood, handing Alex to Elizabeth. The tea was brought in and Jane prepared cups for everyone according to their preferences.
After a short visit where tea was consumed, and everyone admired baby Alex, Darcy stood up. “Pray excuse us, we must be on our way. Georgiana?”
“Yes, Brother.” She rose after one last kiss on Alex’s hand.
“Of course.” Mr Bennet held out his hand for Darcy to shake. “Please accept our thanks again. Words cannot express my gratitude for your safeguarding my family.”
Georgiana chattered all the way out to the carriage. “Elizabeth, I will write to you soon. I will miss you and dear Alex so much. Please do not hesitate to let me know if you need anything, and if you should come to town, I insist you let me know where you will be staying so I might visit.”
Elizabeth laughed at her young friend, “I assure you, Georgiana, I will write often.”
Darcy handed his sister into their conveyance and with a final bow to the Bennets and Mrs Carrington, he joined her.
Elizabeth waved them off, watching the carriage until it disappeared. She turned and slowly walked to the house to join Jane and her father. She needed to get herself and Alex settled.
“Well, Lizzy, you gave us a shock and something to entertain the neighbourhood with to be sure. Returning in such a fine carriage, it will be most talked of in Meryton.”
“Papa, I was fortunate they condescended to aid me.”
“You were indeed. Imagine if your mama were here.” His voice took on a whispered, high pitch tone, “What a fine gentleman, how handsome and so rich.” Mr Bennet sighed and stared off into the distance.
Attempting to distract him, Elizabeth inquired, “How are Kitty and Mary?” She sent him a bright smile.
“They are well. We received a letter yesterday from Mary. She and her husband are doing well. Henry is busy with his flock.”
Jane took his arm, patting it. “Papa, you know Mary sounded very well in her letter. I do believe marriage to a pastor agrees with her. Being needed has helped her come into her own.”
Alex began to fuss. “Pardon me, Papa, I should get us settled.”
“Lizzy,” Jane pulled her father along and walked him back inside. “We prepared your old room. Will that do?”
“That should be fine. Papa, if his cries disturb you in the night, we can move to the nursery.”
“No, no, all will be well. It will be nice to have a little noise around here again. It has been far too quiet. Far too quiet…” He repeated as he slowly made his way down the hall to his book room.
“Jane, Papa looks…”
“He is well, just melancholy. I fear the guilt still weighs him down.” Jane hurried her sister along, as though she did not wish to continue with that discussion. “Come, Lizzy. Let us get you set up so Alex can be comfortable.”
“Oh, Jane, now you sound like Georgiana.” The women climbed the stairs to the second landing. Upon reaching her old room Elizabeth stood at the threshold looking around. “It seems impossible to believe I am back at Longbourn.”
Jane reached out to gently hold one of Alex’s hands, with her other she clasped her sister’s. “Lizzy, I am so sorry about Gregory.Will you despise me if I admit to being very happy you are here now?”
