“I assure you, Lady Matlock, the shock was not at all pleasant.” Noting the slight widening of the countess’s eyes at this comment, Elizabeth expanded, “I have not sought a life in theTon,and it was certainly never a possibility discussed between Captain Carrington and myself. Furthermore, the price seems far too high to pay.”
“Price, Mrs Carrington?”
“Two men are dead. I can only surmise my baby is now a target and in grave danger.”
Compassion softened Lady Matlock’s eyes, “No one is going to leave your son or any of you vulnerable to danger. I have mentioned your situation to my husband, and he has taken an even greater interest in you and the young lord. You may not be aware Lord Matlock had a hand in smoothing out your financial difficulties.”
“Yes, your Ladyship, Mr Darcy informed us of such. I was most appreciative of Lord Matlock’s assistance.” Alex was snuffling around his mother’s chest and waving his fisted hands. “Forgive me, Lady Matlock, I shall need to retire with Alex shortly.”
“I will not keep you much longer. Pray, tell me how long until you enter your half mourning?”
“My husband died in early December. I enter my half mourning at the beginning of June.”
This bit of information did not please Lady Matlock, if the pursing of her lips was any indication. “The timing could be better; it will be a rush to prepare. I would like to introduce you at a ball before everyone has abandoned Town for the summer. It is fortunate you are a widow you can wear darker colours, and it will not appear out of place.”
A silence met this comment, one of Elizabeth’s brows rose high.
Lady Matlock waved a hand, “You will need to become accustomed to impolite and sharp comments, Mrs Carrington. TheTonis elitist and unforgiving of those they consider encroaching. Lord Gregory Alexander Carrington will be easily accepted. You, however, will have a battle to fight in order for Society to accept you.” She stood. “You will also not be permitted to hide away.People will want to meet the hitherto unknown woman who will be commanding the Carrington seat for the next one and twenty years. It is the tedious side of Society, but reputations have been ruined over egregious, yet significant tittle-tattle. Until the nexton ditfloods the gossips’ drawing rooms.”
Elizabeth had risen, as well and now the two women faced each other, chins slightly elevated. Lady Matlock did not fail to notice Elizabeth’s upright and determined stance. “I believe you shall do very well. Perhaps you may not make friends easily,” her mouth twitched in a near smile, “But I believe you will do well. Come, let us return so I may gather my niece and nephew.”
All eyes turned on them as they walked into the drawing room. Darcy was standing by the window and practically glowered as he moved forward to approach them.
Lady Matlock stood at the entrance of the room, her demeanour peremptory. “Mrs Carrington, you will need to purchase an appropriate wardrobe. I shall ask my modiste to set an appointment. It is a shame you are not yet able to make calls, but as I mentioned, a ball to introduce you may do just as well.”
At Lady Matlock’s proclamation, Elizabeth felt the back of her neck tighten. It had been some time since anyone attempted to direct her life in such a way.
Her chin lifted and her eyes blazed, but she kept her voice light and cool. “Lady Matlock, I am grateful for your assistance and for the kindness of your visit today, however, I believe it is imperative I clarify a few salient points. My son is not three months old, and I intend on spending time with him, not leaving him solely to the care of his nurse.
“The estate was nearly bankrupted by the previous earl. I will have a lot of work to do to make it profitable both for my son and for the tenants who rely on its success.
“With all due respect, theTonand its society will not, at this time, be a priority. I will not hide away from it, but neither will I run around in an attempt to procure its good opinion. Especially with the inherent threat to our lives.” Alex began to squirm at the tight grip Elizabeth had on him, and she made an effort to relax her hands.
Silence dampened the air in the room, and it seemed as if everyone was holding their breath. Lady Matlock stared at Elizabeth for a long minute.
Elizabeth felt her heart begin to pound in her chest and she was sure everyone could hear it. Out of the corner of her eye she had seen Jane’s face pale and her hands were now clenching the skirt of her gown.
Finally, Lady Matlock nodded once, slowly. Chin high she said in a haughty tone. “I shall be in touch, Mrs Carrington.” She turned to Darcy, “It is time to leave.”
Darcy frowned. He did not have an opportunity to discuss his concerns with Mrs Carrington. Casting a glance to his aunt, he bowed to the ladies and gave Georgiana his arm. “Pray give Mr Gardiner my best wishes and let him know I shall send a note. It was a pleasure to see you all today.” With one lingering look at Elizabeth, he escorted his sister and aunt out.
Lady Matlock would not meet his eye until they were all seated in the Darcy carriage to return home.
“Lady Matlock, what—” He began to bite out.
She held up a hand, turning a knowing eye on him. “I can see why you are so taken with her.”
Darcy coughed and flushed.
“She is very pretty, but more than that she speaks her mind quite decidedly for someone so young and untried in Society.” The countess smirked at him, “Are you sure you know what you are getting into? She is no wilting violet. I imagine that young lady will not be dictated to by anyone, including you.”
Darcy did not hesitate to respond forcefully. “Elizabeth is a confident woman whose character I admire. She and her son have thrived despite what life has thrown at them. I admire her,” he stopped, embarrassed he had said so much and referred to Elizabeth by her Christian name to his aunt.
“Hmmm... This will be tricky. A specifically-designed entry may be necessary. Something subtle, to raise interest about her yet not introduce her to anyone until the ball.”
Suddenly she laughed. “Catherine will despise her. I only hope I am in the room when they meet for the first time.”
Chapter 25
