Papa dabbed at his eyes. “It means, my dear, that Lizzy has gained the attention of the peerage. She is not ruined, nor are her sisters in danger.”
“London!” Kitty swooned, her hands clasped at her chin.
Mama’s eyes narrowed. “Mr. Bingley is in London.”
“As are the Darcys. Miss Darcy was kind enough to inform me that they intend to stay on a while longer before returning to Pemberley for the winter months,” added Mary.
Elizabeth did not know what to think. To acceptLady Matlock’s invitation would improve her sisters’ prospects. She yearned to see Mr. Darcy again, but she must be realistic. While his family might turn a blind eye to her industry, they would consider her too far below their notice to be worthy of him. Perhaps this was Lady Matlock’s way of ensuring that Elizabeth was kept in her proper place?far away from her ladyship’s nephew.
“What do you want to do, Lizzy?” her father asked, his voice gravelly.
“I would like to see what she has to say, but it means there is a very good chance I might see Mr. Darcy.”
He raised his hand. “I have been known for making mistakes, and I was greatly mistaken about Mr. Darcy. He could have broken me, and instead he has turned society’s opinion to favor us. I do not doubt that this opportunity is his doing. But Lizzy, is this whatyouwant?”
She nodded, her throat too choked with fear and hope and expectation to speak.
Papa rose from his place at the head of the table, collecting his paper and correspondence. “Tell her ladyship that she may send her carriage to collect you at Gracechurch Street.” He turned to Mama. “I pray our sudden arrival will not be too great of an imposition on your brother.”
She leaped from her end of the table, waving her hands in the air as she skipped to him. “Mr. Bennet! All of us? To London?”
“It is about time we accepted Gardiner’s invitationto stay with him. The girls will entertain the children, and I daresay you will enjoy shopping with Mrs. Gardiner. I shall send a message immediately, and we can travel on the morrow.”
She kissed his cheek. “We are to London!”
Elizabeth did her best to join in their celebrations, but she was too full of trepidation to yield fully to happiness.
Darcy pacedin the entrance hall at Matlock House, ignoring Richard when he fell into step beside him.
Aunt Matlock sighed. “I have never seen you so anxious. I suppose you will beat the doorman to his duty and open the door for her when she arrives.”
Darcy spun about and walked to his aunt. Leaning over, he kissed her on the cheek. “Thank you, Aunt.”
“For what? Suggesting you act like a servant?”
“For using your influence to help a worthy young lady.”
Richard grumbled at his side. “He has yet to thankme!”
“Thank you, Rich.”
His cousin continued grumbling to himself, reveling in discontent.
Darcy asked, “Do you expect me to kiss you on the cheek, too?”
Richard thought about it. “No. However someacknowledgement would be agreeable. It was, after all, my doing that you met her in the first place.”
He was correct, and Darcywasgrateful.
Richard continued to sulk. “I could say ‘I told you so,’ but I am not petty like that.”
Not petty at all.Darcy silenced his cousin with a hearty embrace. “I am indebted to you for your interference.” With a slap on the back, Darcy stepped back, his greatest concern rising to the surface. “What if she will not have me?”
Aunt instantly took offense. “Who would dare to refuse you?”
Richard rubbed his whiskers. “You have not met this lady, Mother. She has a strong mind and a fierce will.” Darcy wiped his damp palms against his breeches.
Aunt nodded approval. “I like her already. She has quite stolen your heart!”
