A relation. An uncle.
Someone to know… in time.
And as for Teddy.
Her gaze flickered briefly toward him.
A cousin.
She could choose that, as well.
The realization settled over her with a sense of calm she had not expected.
Her identity was not something that had been taken from her.
It was something she held.
Something she chose.
Darcy’s voice broke through her thoughts.
“…of course, much will depend upon how quickly matters may be established,” he was saying. “But I believe, with proper management, the transition need not be overly disruptive.”
Elizabeth smiled, faintly.
Of course he did.
He would order the world itself, if it meant easing the path before her.
“What do you think, Elizabeth?”
She started slightly and looked at her husband, blinking in mild surprise. “I apologize, my dear. My thoughts wandered. What was the question?”
Darcy’s brow drew together at once, his gaze searching her face with concern. She smiled in reassurance and gave his hand a gentle squeeze.
His shoulders relaxed slightly, and he repeated his question. “Should we have Sir William and Mr. Philips come to take official statements as to your… uncle’s identity?”
“As a magistrate and solicitor, that would be for the best,” she said.
“Then I will send for them to come at once,” Mr. Bennet said, crossing the room to a small desk where paper and pen were sitting.
“Perhaps some refreshments while we wait?” Elizabeth asked.
Everyone nodded in agreement, so Elizabeth went to the door and asked a passing maid to inform the housekeeper. When she returned to her seat, the room had settled somewhat, conversation drifting into quieter channels as they awaited the necessary parties.
Darcy leaned slightly toward her.
“The mention of Sir William,” he said in a low voice, “has put me in mind of something I have not told you… something about your friend, Miss Lucas.”
Elizabeth’s eyebrows rose high on her forehead.What could Darcy possibly know about Charlotte?
“When she brought me your note,” he said quietly, “she required a promise of me before she would deliver it. She would not place it in my hands until I agreed to one condition—that once we were settled at Pemberley, we should receive her there, that she might have the opportunity to form an acquaintance and, if possible, secure a husband.”
Elizabeth stared at him.
“Shewhat?” she whispered, scarcely able to contain her astonishment. “Why have you not mentioned this before?”
Darcy’s expression turned faintly rueful. “I am afraid the matter was entirely lost amidst… everything else. Rescuing you, our marriage, Rosings, Lady Catherine…” He gave a slight shake of his head. “I did not even remember until just now, when your father mentioned her by name.”
