In the Wilds of Derbyshire by Jann Rowland

Author:Jann Rowland [Rowland, Jann]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: One Good Sonnet Publishing
Published: 2017-07-18T22:00:00+00:00

When the time had come to depart, Elizabeth noted how Mr. Darcy approached her and bowed, offering his arm with a warm smile. “Shall I walk you to the carriage, Miss Bennet?”

“Thank you, sir,” replied Elizabeth, resting her hand on his arm, though with no more pressure than a feather.

“I wished to thank you for the assistance you rendered to my sister in preparation for this day.”

“She had no need of it,” replied Miss Bennet. “She had everything quite well in hand. But what assistance I was able to provide, I was happy to do it.”

“I think you underestimate your own contributions.” Mr. Darcy paused and seemed to be thinking intently on something. At length, his eyes once again found hers. “You would not be aware of it, Miss Bennet, but this is the first time since my mother died that we have hosted any sort of event at Pemberley.” He smiled. “Of course, my family has visited and I have hosted the gentlemen for hunting or fishing, but an event to which we have invited those of the neighborhood at large has not been held at Pemberley in over fifteen years.”

“No, I was not aware,” was all Elizabeth could think to say.

“Thus, you can understand why Georgiana was more than a little nervous, wishing to make a good impression on our neighbors. I have the fullest confidence in her abilities, but that little extra encouragement you provided, even if you did nothing more, was worth more than any encouragement I could have given her. And for that I thank you.”

They had reached the waiting coach, and Darcy stopped and turned to look at her. “So, again, I say thank you, Miss Bennet. I appreciate, more than I can say, the friendship you and Miss Drummond have offered my sister. I am so grateful you have come into our lives.”

“Thank you for your returning friendship,” said Elizabeth. “It is partly due to your actions that I have felt so welcome in Derbyshire.”

“Until next time, then.”

Mr. Darcy extended his hand and helped her up and soon they were off. But Elizabeth looked back at him, noting his constant gaze at her as the carriage moved away. And she could not help but think that his regard was now clear as a bright summer day.

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