Elizabeth folded her arms, ignoring how unsteady she felt after standing too long. “I will rest when I have spoken with the Earl.”
Mrs. Tate’s brows lifted. “Oh, you are determined, then.”
Elizabeth lifted her chin. “If His Lordship has had no qualms about interfering in my life, then he shall hear what I have to say about it.”
Mrs. Tate gave her an approving nod, though she tried to hide the smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. “Very well, then. But you cannot be receiving an earl in a bed gown.” She turned back to the maids. “Take it to the sewing room. Let out the seams at once.”
Elizabeth startled. “There is no need for that—truly. It is Miss Darcy’s gown! I can surely send for something of my own.”
The housekeeper gave her a look. “And whose order was it that you should have whatever you require?”
Elizabeth hesitated. “…Mr. Darcy’s.”
“Exactly,” Mrs. Tate said with a satisfied nod. “And that includes something to wear that actually fits. Now, do not waste another breath arguing, Miss Bennet. Miss Darcy left this gown behind when she packed for Ramsgate, so clearly, she does not care for it.”
Elizabeth let out a huff of laughter. “And if she did?”
“Then she should have thought of that before she flounced off, leaving her brother to fret about her.” Mrs. Tate gave her a knowing look. “Mr. Darcy, for all his sharp edges, is a good man. He will grumble and scowl and pretend to be fearsome, but when someone he cares for needs something, he sees that they have it. Whether they like it or not.”
Elizabeth swallowed, forcing a smile. “Yes,” she murmured, almost to herself. “I have seen that for myself.” She caught her reflection in the mirror and saw something almost wistful in her own expression.
Someone he cares for…They had done their job too well. Everyone believed them. Even his own household.
It was a dangerous illusion.
The housekeeper gave her a keen look but said nothing of it. Instead, she sniffed and patted Elizabeth’s arm. “You are exhausted, Miss Bennet, and that gown will not be fit for you for at least an hour—more, if I say so. Get into bed before I am forced to tell Mr. Darcy you are ignoring my care.”
Elizabeth laughed, though her heart felt heavier than before. “Very well, Mrs. Tate. I shall not have you getting me into trouble.”
The housekeeper gave a satisfied nod and turned toward the door, just as a light knock sounded. A maid poked her head inside.
“Miss Bennet, ma’am—Mrs. Gardiner has arrived. She asks if she might see you.”
Elizabeth’s heart leapt, and she turned at once. “Yes, of course. Please, show her in.”
Mrs. Tate gave an approving nod. “Good. Perhaps she can talk some sense into you. You have had quite the night.”
Elizabeth murmured her thanks as the housekeeper departed, and then she turned just as her aunt stepped into the room.
“Oh, my dear girl,” Mrs. Gardiner cried, crossing the space between them swiftly. She took Elizabeth’s hands in hers and gave them a quick squeeze, her sharp eyes sweeping over her. “You are well?”
Elizabeth nodded, relief flooding through her. “I am. I promise. I have had a hot bath, been force-fed the most delectable pottage, and Mrs. Tate even brought up some headache powders that I shan’t be using. Mr. Darcy has made certain I have been given every comfort.”
Mrs. Gardiner’s lips quirked upward as she studied her. “Has he now?”
Elizabeth hesitated, but there was no missing the twinkle of amusement in her aunt’s eyes. Mrs. Gardiner glanced around the well-appointed room, her gaze landing on the elaborate furnishings, the roaring fire, and the pile of fresh linens Mrs. Tate had brought in earlier. She arched a brow. “Yes… I can see that he has ensured you arequitecomfortable. Why, he has given you a state room fit for nobility!”
Elizabeth groaned. “Aunt—”
Mrs. Gardiner gave her a gentle smile and pressed her hand. “I am only teasing, my dear. I have been beside myself with worry since we learned you had been taken.” Her voice wavered slightly, and Elizabeth’s amusement fled at once.
“Oh, Aunt,” she whispered. “I am so sorry. I never meant to frighten you.”
“You had no choice in the matter,” Mrs. Gardiner said firmly, shaking her head. “The important thing is that you are safe now. And youtrulyfeel well?”
Elizabeth hesitated only a moment before nodding. “I do. Though I may never be able to drink a full cup of water again without honestly appreciating it.”
Mrs. Gardiner huffed a soft laugh and squeezed her hand. But then she gave Elizabeth a knowing look. “And Mr. Darcy?”
