Christmas in Kent: A Pride and Prejudice Short Story by Jae George

Author:Jae George [George, Jae]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Pride and Prejudice & Related Fandoms, Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, Read, Purchased
Goodreads: 221172504
Published: 2024-11-02T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter Five

While Charlotte helped her friend take a short walk about her bedchamber, the three conspirators managed a brief meeting in Anne’s sitting room at two o’clock that afternoon.

“I think that Miss Bennet being allowed to walk is the perfect opportunity to place her in Darcy’s company,” Richard averred. “We just need to be subtle in creating the opportunities.”

“Absolutely, Richard. And it will be best if my brother thinks it is his own idea,” Georgiana giggled. “I know for a fact that Elizabeth is longing to be allowed out of her bedchamber.”

“Just leave it to me,” Anne offered. “I know the perfect spot for her to stroll with the support of a handsome escort that will not be discovered by my mother or any of her spies. Mr. Collins has returned to the parsonage since a path to it has been cleared,” she explained. “Charlotte Collins is staying in the dressing room attached to Elizabeth’s room; therefore, there is no one in the guest wing, meaning the long corridor there is both empty and easily accessible.”

“Brilliant, Anne. I believe the army could use your talent for covert operations.”

“Thank you, Richard,” she grinned. “Georgie, you should begin to suggest the idea to Elizabeth and Mrs. Collins this evening with the hope of seeing it fulfilled tomorrow afternoon. Richard, you must speak to Darcy after dinner about the possibility of the two of you offering your services as her escorts.”

The three cousins left the room with their assignments pleased with their plan.

***

Everyone had been subtle in their hints about their plan, and their targets had both been receptive to their suggestions. The following afternoon both Darcy and the Colonel arrived at the lady’s door to offer an arm for support. They found Elizabeth waiting in one of Anne’s refitted gowns, Charlotte’s shawl, and house slippers borrowed from Georgiana. She initially walked with her hand on the arm of Colonel Fitzwilliam while Darcy walked at her other side with his hands behind his back. When Richard halted their progress to perform reconnaissance at the intersection of the family and guest wings, Elizabeth accepted Darcy’s strong arm as support. Soon Anne joined the group and took Richard’s arm, walking in front of Darcy and Elizabeth while casting surreptitious smiles at each other.

“I am delighted that you have improved enough to take some exercise, Miss Elizabeth. I remember how much you enjoyed your solitary walks in Hertfordshire,” Darcy opened the conversation.

“Indeed, Mr. Darcy, even this slow stroll is most welcome. You and your sister and cousins have been wonderfully attentive and helpful during my time here.”

“We are very happy to be able to accommodate you. Now tell me how you are feeling. Do you still suffer from headaches?”

“Yes, but to a much lesser degree than in the beginning. And my vision is no longer unfocused. I believe I am nearly completely recovered.”

He smiled indulgently. “Having previously suffered from a concussion myself, I must warn you that complete recovery may take longer than you expect. I urge you to not overdo your activity at this stage in your convalescence.

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