Darcy Family Holidays, Volume 1 (Books 1-3 Compilation) by Leenie Brown

Author:Leenie Brown [Brown, Leenie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Leenie B Books

Chapter 10

Caroline stood at the window in Georgiana’s room, looking out into the deepening shadows of the late afternoon light. This time of year was so dark — she pulled her wrap more snugly around her shoulders — and cold.

“You do not have to stay with me,” Georgiana said from where she sat in her bed.

“Oh, I wished to stay.” Caroline turned from the window and moved back toward the chair she had occupied for the last half hour. The sick room was not precisely her favourite place to be, but then, Miss Darcy was not ill, only injured, and, knowing just how much Colonel Fitzwilliam cared for his cousin compelled Caroline for some unknown reason to see to the girl’s care.

“But it is dull,” Georgiana protested. “I would much rather be out of bed and doing something — anything, truth be told. However, I fear my brother would be most severely displeased if I were to act on my wishes.”

Caroline smiled at the irritation in Georgiana’s voice. “And your cousin? Would he be likewise as displeased?” A feeling of satisfaction and comfort spread through Caroline’s being as Georgiana’s lips turned up in a smile.

“He would be displeased but not so greatly as my brother. Richard growls and stomps, but he does not get that look on his face that crushes my heart like my brother does.” She paused and tipped her head. “However, when Richard is disappointed…” She shook her head.

“It tears at your heart as deeply as your brother’s look crushes it?” Caroline asked.

“Yes. How do you know that?”

“My father,” Caroline replied. “He was much like Charles — very unbothered by much, always ready with a quick smile and a pleasant word. He tolerated a great deal of foolishness from me and Louisa — and Charles — although I do believe Father was more lenient with Louisa and me.” She sighed. “But when I had crossed that border from what he could tolerate to what he could not…” She shook her head. “He never raised his voice but would quietly say ‘I expected better’ or some such small reprimand. Oh, how those word tore at my heart! I did not like to disappoint Mama either, and her look of displeasure made my heart ache — but not as Father’s quiet words did.”

“Do you miss him?”

Caroline nodded. “Daily.”

“Me, too,” Georgiana whispered. “I hope I would make my father proud, but I am uncertain after my foolishness with Mr. Wickham.”

Caroline rose from her chair and perched tentatively on the edge of Georgiana’s bed. She had never had such a heartfelt conversation with Miss Darcy. The idea that this girl might understand a portion of what she felt drew her to her in a way that Georgiana’s brother’s fortune and estate never could. “I am positive my father would be disappointed in me,” she admitted.

“You are?”

Caroline nodded. “You have trusted me with your story about Mr. Wickham, so I feel I can trust you with this.” She waited to get an assurance from Georgiana.

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