~ / ~
London
The Darcys arrived at their townhouse in London a week later than originally planned and the household was overjoyed to greet them.
“Welcome home, Sir, Miss Darcy.” Lewis, the Darcy butler, bowed. A footman and maid stepped forward to take their outerwear. “It is so good to have you back.”
“Thank you, Lewis. Anything I should be aware of?” He took his sister’s hand and guided her towards the stairs.
“Colonel Fitzwilliam has been in a couple of times. And I understand Lord and Lady Matlock are anticipating your return, sir.”
Darcy lips pinched. “Thank you.”
Georgiana began climbing the stairs and Darcy turned back to Lewis, “Do not put up the knocker until I say.”
“Very good, sir.” Lewis bowed again.
Darcy followed Georgiana upstairs knowing baths were already being prepared. It would be good to sleep in his own bed again.
~ / ~
The next morning after breaking his fast, he sent a note to the Earl and Countess, Lord and Lady Matlock. Not an hour went by, and the earl’s cane was knocking on the front door.
Darcy was in his study and Georgiana was practicing the piano, when the butler arrived to inform him of their visitors.
“Lord and Lady Matlock have arrived, sir. I showed them to the blue sitting room.”
“Very good. Please have Mrs Morris send up tea and refreshments.”
Darcy exited his study and still hearing the piano he stopped by the music room first. “Georgie, Uncle and Aunt are here. Will you join us?
She stood, “Yes, of course.”
Together they walked to the drawing room and entered moments before the maids arrived with tea.
“Darcy!” “Georgiana!” The exclamations came from both uncle and aunt.
“You both look well. We were concerned for you until you sent word of your delay,” finished Lady Matlock.
Darcy bowed and Georgiana curtseyed. “We are well. Just a little detained on our journey.”
Darcy took his aunt’s hand and kissed her cheek, then led her to a couch where she took a seat. Patting the cushion next to her she implied Georgiana was to take the place beside her.
“Anything serious?” Lord Matlock frowned as he sat in a nearby chair.
“No, not at all. We came across a widow in distress and in need of assistance.” Darcy forewent from sitting; he was too agitated in anticipation of what may prove to be an uncomfortable discussion.
“Are you sure she was not looking to take advantage of you?” his uncle blustered.
“Uncle! No, indeed she was not.” cried Georgiana. “Mrs Carrington was all alone and her pains began.” Georgiana squirmed in her seat, blushing, “She had no one to help her.”
“Well, most unusual.” Lord Matlock cleared his throat.
Lady Matlock raised a hand to her throat, “What was she doing travelling all alone, and so near her confinement?”
Darcy stood looking out the window, with his hands clasped behind his back. “Her husband was a captain in the Royal Navy; he died in a skirmish not long ago. I understand he was highly regarded. She was attempting to travel back to her father’s estate before her confinement in April. The woman who assisted her supposed the birth came on early due to stress.”
“Hmm… Carrington you say. That should remind me of something…” Lord Matlock’s brow was furrowed and his lips pursed.
