Mr. Darcy's Proposal by Susan Mason-Milks

Author:Susan Mason-Milks [Mason-Milks, Susan]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Tags: Romance, darcy, austen whatif, Regency, pride and prejudice, elizabeth bennet, austen
Publisher: Susan Mason-Milks
Published: 2012-06-09T00:59:23+00:00

Thirty Three

Darcy found Elizabeth standing in front of one of the big windows that overlooked the lawns. It was raining, and her face reflected in the glass was as dark as the stormy sky. Lost in thought, she seemed unaware of his presence. He knew she was upset the rain had trapped her inside the house, but there was something else—she appeared trapped inside herself.

At first, when they arrived at Pemberley, she had seemed to brighten with all the new experiences. Everything appeared to be going so well as she settled into her new responsibilities. According to Mrs. Reynolds, she was learning quickly. Everyone loved her.

Recently this had all changed. Although she continued to insist nothing was wrong, she was neither sleeping nor eating properly. When Margaret noticed Mrs. Darcy seemed to be losing weight, she had gone to Mrs. Reynolds with her concerns. Of course, Mrs. Reynolds had come to him.

Elizabeth’s unhappiness was evident, but he had no idea what to do to relieve her distress. Darcy was a man accustomed to being in charge. When he saw a problem, he analyzed it and found a way to fix it. Except maybe for being in crowded ballrooms, there was nothing he liked less than this helpless feeling. In some ways, this reminded him of when he had tried to care for Georgiana after Wickham’s betrayal.

Just then the notes of a melancholy tune coming from down the hall caught his attention. Georgiana must be in the music room practicing. Why couldn’t his sister choose something lighter and happier to practice he thought. If Elizabeth was feeling low, this music was certainly not helping.

Turning back, he watched Elizabeth thoughtfully. When it became obvious that the tears were starting to flow, he went to her. “You have forgotten your handkerchief again, Elizabeth. I fear it is becoming a habit.”

She visibly tensed.

“I was only teasing. Whatever is on your mind?” he asked.

“I was hoping to go out for a walk today, but as you can see…” she said, gesturing toward the window. Her voice was so soft he could barely hear her.

“Surely, that is no reason for tears.”

“I am fine.”

“In spite of what you say, your actions tell a different story. Something is making you unhappy. Please tell me how to help you.” When Darcy reached out and touched her shoulder, she pulled away as if his hand had burned her skin.

“You are very kind, sir, but I do not think there is anything you can do. Please excuse me. I feel a headache coming on and wish to go lie down.” She left Darcy standing there with a hollow feeling in his chest.

***

Returning to his study, Darcy found it impossible to focus on his letters and paperwork. He did not want to let this go. Something was making her unhappy, but he had no idea what it could be. How could their relationship improve if she would not share even a little of herself with him? She said she wanted to be alone, but he suspected that might not be entirely true.

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