~ /~
Lady Matlock called on Georgiana one morning to see how she was faring after the last few events she attended.
“Georgiana, I must know if any eligible gentleman has caught your eye? Lord Grantly and Viscount Simpson both inquired about you. They are highly sought after due to their positions in Society.”
“Aunt, I have indeed enjoyed the beautiful new gowns and the entertainments, but I have yet to meet anyone who interests me.”
“Hmm… Well, what about the young ladies? Surely one young lady might seem as if she would suit your brother.”
“Aunt, I will not make the mistake of either gossiping about my brother or forcing any lady on to his notice.” Georgiana shifted in her seat so she faced her aunt straight on. “Aunt, you and Uncle are very dear to us. Pray understand, neither of us will be pushed or rushed into a match not of our choosing or one which will not guarantee mutual felicity.”
Lady Matlock’s gaze rested on her niece, examining her countenance for several minutes. Finally, she gave a little sigh. “I see you are holding firm to your resolution. It is not how I would have arranged your come out, or your search for a husband. I only hope you do not regret these decisions in the future.”
“The only regrets I would have are not being true to myself and making the wrong choice of husband. It is after all, for life.”
Lady Matlock patted Georgiana’s hand. “That it is, my dear.” She took a sip of tea and lowered the cup onto its saucer, her eyes staring unseeing ahead.
The silence grew, making Georgiana uncomfortable. “Did Lord Matlock tell you he was able to help release the funds for Mrs Carrington? She was so grateful and pleased she could now begin to make plans for herself and Alex.”
“Georgiana, you remain in contact with that woman? Surely, you can see there is a vast chasm between the Fitzwilliams and a nobody widow.”
“Lady Matlock.” Georgiana rose to her feet and took a few steps away, turned and faced her aunt who was still seated. “Mrs Carrington is not a nobody; she is my friend. Besides, I am a Darcy, first and foremost. My mother certainly felt it was good enough for her.” Her courage slipped a little and her hands twisted together infront of her. “Do I embarrass you? If so, I am just as happy to return to Pemberley and attend the assemblies in Lambton.”
“Of course not. I… well really, Georgiana.” Lady Matlock exhaled and placed her teacup on the tray. “You will do no such thing.” She reached out a hand to her niece, waiting for Georgiana to take it. When she did, the older woman pulled until the girl sat back down next to her on the settee. “I can see I have been too forceful. Allow me to say, despite my contrariness, your happiness is all I wish for you. I shall attempt to keep my thoughts on what your happiness should entail to myself.”
“Thank you, Aunt. Neither I nor my brother would be happy if we were forced to cut you from our lives.” Biting her lower lip, Georgiana fought to keep her smile from showing. Yet, it still showed through.
With a wag of her finger and shaking her head, Lady Matlock smiled, too. “You have been spending too much time with Richard. He shall feel my wrath for turning your sweet disposition into a teasing and stubborn one.”
“Oh, it is not all Richard, Aunt. My friend and her sister are a good influence, too.” Georgiana tilted her head, “I think, should you ever have reason to meet them, you would like them very much.”
“Oh?”
“Miss Bennet is beautiful, but she is kind, too, though quite reserved. Mrs Carrington has a vitality which was not apparent when we first met her. She was too tired and fearful then, I suppose. She wishes to see the joy in life and is a great listener. However, she will not hesitate to speak out if she holds an opposing opinion.”
“Such contrary opinions would not be well accepted in our circles.”
“I think it is refreshing. There is no disguise in either of them.”
“Hmph. That may be the case, but there is little reason for my ever meeting them.”
Lady Matlock stood to depart and so did not see Georgiana’s rolling of her eyes before quickly recomposing herself.
~ /~
A couple of days went by with no contact between Darcy House and the Gardiner residence. The Darcys, busy with Ton events, were all anticipation for dinner at the Gardiners.
“I am so excited to be in their company again.” They were in the Darcy carriage on their way to the Gardiners. “It feels like it has been an age.” Georgiana’s wide smile gleamed at Darcy from her side of the benches.
Tamping down on his own excitement, Darcy allowed a smile of his own to linger on his lips.
The coach came to a halt in front of the Gardiners home and Darcy waited for the step to be placed by the footman before exiting the coach. He straightened his waistcoat before turning around and offering his hand to Georgiana.
A maid welcomed them in and took their outer garments, before escorting them to the parlour. On being announced Darcy nearly halted his steps at his first sight of Mrs Carrington.
It took him a moment to comprehend why the sight of her struck him so. Her hair was done up in a more elaborate style than usual, but her fashionable dress was the impetus for his faster heart rate.
Elizabeth stood next to Jane, waiting for Georgiana and Mr Darcy to enter. She nervously ran her hands down the skirts of her gown, still unsure about wearing it.
