Darcy's Angel: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Jennifer Kay

Author:Jennifer Kay
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Published: 2018-11-22T16:00:00+00:00

Sixteen

Darcy

July – August 1807

“Well, it certainly took you long enough to return,” Darcy said, leaning back in his chair and lifting an eyebrow at Richard. “You were so set on interrogating Georgiana’s new friend and exposing her as a fraud I’d begun to fear for poor Miss Elizabeth.”

His cousin grinned, knowing that Darcy was teasing. “You should be glad I was called away,” he said. “I’d planned on bringing Georgie a kitten as a surprise this spring, but I got my orders before arrangements could be made.”

Darcy laughed. “And that would have been truly horrible indeed! Did you know I actually thought about getting her a kitten when we first arrived in Town? Perhaps it was a puppy, I’ve forgotten which. Something to keep her company and cheer her up.”

“Why didn’t you?” Richard reached out and topped off his glass of brandy, then settled back.

“It wasn’t necessary,” Darcy said, fingers drumming on his thigh. “I considered it when she was horribly sad, almost hysterical, but almost immediately she met Miss Elizabeth and—I swear, Richard, it was the strangest thing. They had a conversation in Hyde Park and Georgiana has been steadily improving ever since.”

“Yes, Miss Elizabeth seems like she could have that effect,” Richard said slowly. “Especially since she has continued to be present. I am glad to see my interrogation skills were not necessary.” He frowned and took a sip of brandy.

Feeling like he was being bated, Darcy took a sip of his own drink before he said, “There’s no need for theatrics, you may as well spit it out.” He was, in truth, interested to hear what Richard thought of Elizabeth Bennet, who he had finally met that afternoon. Despite his best intentions, Major Fitzwilliam had been summoned away in the spring before he was able to meet his cousin’s new friend.

“I liked her,” Richard replied easily, frown disappearing. “You’re right, she isn’t a female Wickham. She’s clever, but it’s clear she’s kind as well. She kept an eye on Georgiana even while we were talking—and I’m sure you’ve noticed that Georgie looks to her for reassurance before you or Mrs. Younge?” Seeing Darcy’s nod, he went on. “If I met them without knowing better, I’d think they were sisters.”

“You might until they stood next to each other,” Darcy rejoined.

Richard grinned. “Yes, as young as Georgie is she’ll be taller before long. Miss Elizabeth is a bit short by comparison. Actually, Darce, that comment reminds me of something else I noticed. I was surprised how comfortable you seemed around Miss Elizabeth. And did she ask you something about a baby?”

“Miss Elizabeth is a bit short compared to anyone,” Darcy said, because that was the statement he actually knew how to answer. He thought of Miss St. Clair, tall and willowy. Georgiana might look a good deal like her eventually. Catching himself, he went on. “Richard, you seem to think I hate anyone outside the family, and you should know better. I certainly do not have the talent which some people possess conversing easily with those I do not know, but acquaintance grows over time.

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