When Lord Matlock departed, Darcy contemplated how to get the news of this happy conclusion to Mrs Carrington.
I could send a note to Mr Gardiner, but if they have questions, it might be best to tell them in person. Should I have Georgiana send her a note and see if they are available?
He quickly checked the time. Still within visiting hours. He dithered over the best option.
He stood tall and pulled down his waistcoat and nodded affirmatively.I will ask Georgiana to accompany me.
Chapter 17
Elizabeth was in the back parlour with Alex. A small fire was lit as the day was overcast, and she wanted to ensure the room was warm enough for her babe. After a whirlwind couple of days, Elizabeth needed this quiet time, just the two of them.
Alex did not fall asleep right after nursing and being cleaned up. She adored watching the little faces he made. The only time he really focused was during feedings and at the sound of her voice.
Alternating between speaking to him and blowing raspberries into his belly, Elizabeth enjoyed the little sounds he made when he got excited.
“You have your father’s features but seem to have my hair. I will have a hard time keeping your curls out of your face when it grows longer. Yes, I will. Pbbbt…” Elizabeth lifted Alex to blow a kiss on his belly. “Are you smiling at me, mama’s darling boy? Pbbbt… What think you, my son? Shall our knight, Sir Darcy, vanquish the evil overlord? Pbbbt… Shall we throw flower petals and cheer when Sir Knight returns from his conquests? Pbbbt…”
Elizabeth giggled to see Alex’s expression change each time she spoke and tickled his belly.
A cough at the open parlour door drew her attention. When she looked up it was to see a grinning Jane at the door. “Jane, you startled me.”
“I can see that, and when might you expect Sir Darcy to return from his battles?”
“I am sure I do not know, you impertinent miss. Have you come to join us?” Elizabeth patted the sofa next to her.
“No. I came to inform you of our visitors. I believe Mr Darcy will be pleased to hear of his new title.
“Thank you, Jane.” A flush rose up her neck. “I shall come directly.”
Jane nodded and returned to the front parlour. Elizabeth stood and picked up the blanket Mrs Barton gifted her before leaving Plymouth. Cradling Alex to her she wrapped the blanket over him and around his back with his dark baby curls peeking out and exited the little parlour to greet the guests.
Darcy was standing looking out the window when she walked into the room, but at her entrance he turned, and stilled.
Mrs Carrington’s cheeks were flushed, and she had that sweet smile on her face, the one from the day they left the inn to complete her journey to Longbourn. It was a smile he could not forget.
His sister glided across the room to greet Mrs Carrington, and after a few spoken words they walked over to the bassinet. Darcy watched, fascinated by the young mother’s demeanour. It was a look, he imagined, which would not be out of place on the Greek Goddess Rhea, peaceful and nurturing.
No woman of theToncared enough to hold her infant child, let alone allow them to be seen in company. The children of the first circles were raised by staff and servants; never seen, never heard. The exact opposite of what he desired for his own future family. His fondest memories of childhood were of the times he spent with his mother. Even when she was unwell after Georgie’s birth, Lady Anne held her daughter as often as she was able, including Darcy in those visits and conversations.
This is what he has been searching for. A woman who puts care and love before societal appearances. His thoughts stuttered to astop.Desist. I have one mission today. Time enough to ruminate on this later.
Mrs Carrington had approached him without his notice. “Mr Darcy,” she curtseyed, “May I offer you some refreshments?”
“No. I thank you.” He offered her a bow in return. “However, I would be pleased for some minutes of your time, madam.”
Her eyes held his for a moment and he could see hope flaring there. With quicker breaths she apprised her aunt of their sitting in the corner chairs.
He waited until Mrs Carrington took her seat and then sat himself. Leaning slightly forward with his forearms resting on his legs, he pressed the fingers of both hands together.
“I have come directly following a meeting with my uncle, Lord Matlock. In truth, I am amazed he was able to produce results so quickly. I suggest, Mrs Carrington, for you and your uncle to revisit your husband’s attorney at the earliest possible time. I have no doubt Mr Haversham will be more than happy to begin the process of transferring your inheritance.” With the last word spoken a wide grin appeared on his face, taking his attractive mien from merely handsome to breathtaking.
Elizabeth could not comprehend if she was more stunned by his news or by the beautiful man sitting next to her. Her mouth opened, but she could not speak.
“Madam, are you well? Might I get you something for your relief, some wine perhaps?”
Finally, she found her voice, “I am well. I… Is it true? Of course it is, you just said it is so, forgive me. And Lord Carrington has so easily backed down?”
“Well, as to that,” he looked sheepish. “My uncle also informed me,” he hesitated, “Lord Carrington is dead.”
