Georgiana Darcy, Matchmaker by Bronwen Chisholm

Author:Bronwen Chisholm [Chisholm, Bronwen]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harvestdale Press
Published: 2016-08-31T05:00:00+00:00

Chapter Fifteen

“Oh, Elizabeth, I am so pleased Hannah was able to repair your dress.” I squeezed her hand as we sat together watching the dancers.

“It would have been atrocious if not for your brother’s neck cloth. I hope he did not expect it returned to him.” She fingered the silk cloth, which Hannah had cut into strips and sown into a pattern on the front panel of her gown. “Do you think anyone will notice?”

I shook my head decidedly. “Fitzwilliam prefers white neck cloths. I purchased the green for him for his birthday, but he has never worn it. And I doubt anyone will think twice regarding the change to your gown, unless they studied it closely when you first arrived.” I shrugged my shoulders as I looked out at the dancers. “Besides, many people saw the damage done by Mr. Collins, or heard word of it, and would be pleased you were able to return to the ball.”

“I suppose.” Elizabeth ran a hand nervously over the material once more. “Georgiana, did you suggest your brother wear a green waistcoat?”

“I did not mention it to Fitzwilliam,” I replied innocently, while not looking directly at her.

“I see.” There was a slight silence and I was about to turn around when Elizabeth spoke again. “Do you frequently speak to his valet regarding Mr. Darcy’s clothing choices?”

Feeling heat rush to my cheeks, I lowered my gaze. “Will you forgive me, Elizabeth? When I saw your gown, I was immediately reminded of Fitzwilliam’s green waistcoat. I knew you would appear stunning together.”

“Georgiana, I must ask you to stop pushing your brother and I together. I quite like you and hope that we may be great friends; but I do not wish to be constantly concerned that our visits may make your brother uncomfortable.”

“Why would you believe he is uncomfortable?” I tilted my head to the side, studying Elizabeth who gazed at the dancers most intently.

“Whenever we have been in company, he has stared at me in such a manner that I am certain he is attempting to find fault. My family has certainly proven itself quite ridiculous before him on several occasions. My own sister has attempted to maim him and conspired with his enemy. However could we overcome such obstacles?”

The dance ended and Fitzwilliam quickly dispatched his partner to her husband and hurried across the room in our direction.

“Does he appear desirous to avoid you?” I whispered just before he arrived in front of us.

Elizabeth’s blush was exceedingly becoming as Fitzwilliam bowed over her hand and led her to the floor. She glanced over her shoulder in my direction, flashing a reluctant smile of acceptance as he laid his injured hand over hers, which rested upon his arm.

“Oh, how I wish I could hear what they say,” I said under my breath.

“That would be highly improper,” Mrs. Annesley responded causing me to jump.

“Forgive me,” I said as I took my seat and the lady followed. “I had forgotten you were there.”

“You and Miss Elizabeth were speaking quite intently.

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