Page 171 of What Change Entails

“What do I wish?”

“Yes.”

No one had asked it so directly in quite that way. Or if they had, Georgiana had answered with what seemed easiest. What would inconvenience no one. What would keep rooms pleasant.

She drifted toward the window. Outside, the lawn sloped toward the trees. Somewhere beyond the glass Lydia’s voice rang out, followed by Horace barking with equal enthusiasm.

“I wish her visit to end soon,” Georgiana said. “Without cruelty. Without a quarrel if it can be accomplished. But soon.”

Fitzwilliam nodded.

That was all. No lecture or hesitation. No reminder of obligation—just acceptance.

“I shall see it done,” he said.

Georgiana’s throat ached and she tried to swallow. “Thank you.”

“And Georgiana?”

She faced him again.

His eyes held hers with an intensity that made her sit straighter.

“You need never earn peace in your own home by surrendering your comfort.”

The words were too much. Too large. Too kind. She could not answer them properly, so she gave an inadequate little nod and looked down until she could trust her face again.

A commotion erupted in the corridor.

“Miss Darcy!” Lydia called through the half-open door. “Horace has stolen Mr. Hurst’s slipper, and I require moral support.”

Fitzwilliam closed his eyes.

Georgiana covered her mouth.

The timing was outrageous and perfect.

“Coming,” she choked out.

Fitzwilliam stood and opened the door wider. Lydia stood outside with one slipper in hand and Horace behind her, looking profoundly pleased with himself.

“I rescued it,” Lydia announced. “Mostly.”

Fitzwilliam examined the slipper. “Mostly?”

“The heel is compromised.”

From behind them, Mr. Hurst’s voice came faintly down the corridor. “Where is my other shoe?”

Lydia thrust the slipper toward Georgiana. “You see? Urgency.”

Georgiana took it because Lydia clearly expected her to, then dissolved into helpless amusement.

Fitzwilliam stepped aside, one hand against the doorframe, and watched her go with an expression she was no longer afraid to understand.

Pride.

Love.