Darcy and Elizabeth--A Promise Kept by Brenda J. Webb

Author:Brenda J. Webb
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Pride and Prejudice Variations and Sequels, Pride and Prejudice Variations, Jane Austen, Historical Regency Romance, British Classics Romance, British Romance Historical Fiction.
Publisher: Brenda J. Webb
Published: 2018-05-21T00:00:00+00:00

ELIZABETH’S BEDROOM

Later

Elizabeth was taking a last look at the splendour that was Pemberley when Millicent opened the door. Hurrying to the balcony where she stood, the countess began talking.

“Do not blame Cora for telling me you were awake. I just had to see for myself how you were faring. I do not recall you ever keeping to your rooms for so long a time, and I feared your headache must have worsened.”

Elizabeth was glad her friend believed she had a headache, for she was incapable of pretending she was well. A slight smile was all she could offer in reply.

“I dare say you look worse than this morning. You must allow me fetch Mrs. Reynolds, so she can create one of her potions.”

Elizabeth held a hand out to Millicent, and she took it. “It is not the headache which pains me now.”

“Then what?”

“I...I must go back home tomorrow.”

“Home?”

“To Richmond.”

“You cannot leave now. Fitzwilliam will be returning soon, and I know how devastated he will be if you are not here.”

“I must. Jane is due to have her child soon, and I know she wants me with her. Besides, the threats which sent me here in the first place no longer exist.”

Millicent studied Elizabeth sombrely. “You would leave Fitzwilliam now, knowing how much he loves you?”

“I am not leaving him,” she countered weakly, “for I will be nearer to William in Richmond than here.”

“But he could be on his way home as we speak. You might pass along the way.”

“I doubt that. Still, I shall send an express in the morning, telling him where I shall be.” Elizabeth squeezed Millicent’s hand. “All will be well. You shall see.”

Though still dismayed, Millicent relented. “If you must, you must, but know that not only will Fitzwilliam miss you, I shall as well. You have become the sister I never had, and Emily like my own child.” She started to cry. “I...I do not think I have ever felt this much kinship with a woman. My closest friends have always been Fitzwilliam and Richard.”

“You were kind to Emily and me, even when you suspected the truth of my relationship with William,” Elizabeth said. “And once you learned the truth, you put his happiness ahead of your own. How can I not love you as a sister, as well?” She hugged Millicent, then quickly stepped back. “I must compose myself, so I can explain to Emily that we are leaving. I know she will be upset, for she has come to think of William as the father she never had.”

“Fitzwilliam has always been good with children. As godfather to Hugh and Kathy, he could not have been more attentive. And I have seen him treat Emily with the same affection, so it is normal she should love him. If you are in Richmond and he in London, make sure he sees her often. That should assuage her fears.”

“I...I will,” Elizabeth stammered, appalled at having to lie. “Now, I must send for Cora to begin packing.”

“Emily is having refreshments on the terrace with Hugh and Kathy.

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