by Rose Lorimer
With my heart was almost reaching my throat, I reluctantly broke our kiss, joining our foreheads. “You will be the end of me.”
“I hope not. I was planning to spend a very long and happy life with you doing exactly this…”
I shook my head, silently swearing under my breath.
She will be the end of me.
Richard was outside, waiting for me with the naughtiest expression on his face. “I think I envy you.”
“Do not. At least, not for some time,” I whispered, walking and adjusting my clothes. “Being with her as her rightful husband while she is still recovering is torture, Richard. A sweet one, but torture nevertheless.”
“I am sorry, old chap. By the colour on your cheeks, I had the impression it had not been so bad.” He paused, seeing my deadly expression. “But I will try to keep that in mind when she is recovered. Shall I be able to envy you then?”
I could not stay angry with Richard and laughed. What would he not do for me? He was the best cousin and friend anyone could ask for. I knew he was jesting, but, in truth, I felt sorry for the life he had led so far. Being a soldier was not easy. But that was about to change. Now that he had Rosings I was sure his situation would change.
Yes. That had been a good decision on my part and Uncle Alfred’s. I could never keep Rosings for myself after what happened. Gifting it to Richard was the best thing we could do. If I had found happiness despite everything, I knew Richard could too. It was just a matter of finding the right woman.
“Darcy!”
I turned and found him stopped, frowning at me. “What?”
“Are you attending to anything I said? Mr Pascoe is in the garden outside and you are marching towards the drawing room.”
“Oh. I am sorry. I was... distracted.”
He smirked. “I understand. But you were the one who requested the man to come this afternoon, remember? We have been entertaining him with some answers long enough, but he wants to talk to you.”
“What do you think of him, Richard?” I asked as he gave a final touch to my coat and cravat. “Do you believe we can trust him?”
“I do not know. I find strange that he offered us his card exactly on the morning before the break in.”
We found Mr Pascoe, kneeling down below the broken window, checking something on the floor. By his cat-which-ate-the-mouse smile, it seemed he had found what he was looking for.
Chapter 25
Darcy
“What do you think Mr Pascoe concluded, Richard? I could not discern his expression when he found the spots of blood on the ground this afternoon,” I said, sipping from my brandy after dinner.
“Should you not be with your wife now that she is feeling better, Darcy? She seemed quite recovered this evening at dinner.”
“I should, and I would love to, but I completely forgot about—”
The sound of horses whinnying cut short my explanation. Richard looked at me and frowned. “Are you expecting someone?”
“That is what I was about to tell you. I forgot to mention that in his letter, Mr Bennet said another of Elizabeth’s friends would be joining us for the remainder of our time here. If I am not mistaken, that must be she.”
“I dearly hope this is not another Miss Wiley,” Richard muttered.
“I cannot say. Just like you, I have not had the pleasure yet. But Mr Bennet and Elizabeth tell me she is a very sensible young woman.”
“Compared to Miss Wiley, anyone can be sensible. You should have seen her face when she realised you two were not returning. I confess I was happy when she went away,” he said, peeking through the curtain. “I should not speak so ill of her. It must be hard to be afraid like that all the time. But, there you have it. I cannot say I regret her departure.” He sighed. “What I would not give to meet a brave woman.”
I could not fault Richard for his sharp comments. We could only hope that Miss Lucas would be a different sort of lady.
The noise in the entrance hall became louder. Soon, Mrs Bingley and another young woman entered the drawing room.
“… no, Charlotte. She is in bed already. As Papa must have informed you, Elizabeth was very ill and is still recovering.”
“Yes, he did. I hope she is better now.” Miss Lucas stopped and entwined her fingers in front of her as she saw us.
Mrs Bingley turned and smiled. “Ah, gentlemen. Allow me to introduce our friend, Miss Lucas. Charlotte, this is Mr Darcy, Elizabeth’s husband, and his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam. Please, sit down. I will fetch some tea. Gentlemen, would you mind keeping Charlotte company?”
“Not at all, Mrs Bingley,” Richard answered before I could even open my mouth.
Miss Lucas gave us a measuring look, then curtsied. “It is a pleasure, gentlemen. I am sorry for my late arrival, and even sorrier to have missed the wedding. Unfortunately, the roads did not comply, and the journey took us long than expected.”
As we all sat to wait for tea, I assessed our guest. Miss Lucas seemed to be a fine gentlewoman. Her father, Sir William Lucas, I was informed, had been knighted some years ago, allowing the family to reach a better social position in the midst of Meryton’s society. Despite not possessing remarkable beauty — compared to Elizabeth, any woman could fit this description — her general appearance was pleasant. She was shorter than Elizabeth, but her figure was generous in curves, which, by the expression on Richard’s face, seemed to have his approval. Her brown eyes, however, possessed the same singular cleverness as those of Elizabeth. My first impression, so far, was favourable. I was now eager to know if she was indeed as sharp-minded as my wife had said.
And, as it seemed, so was my cousin.
“I am sorry for your delay, Miss Lucas,” Richard said gallantly. “The weather has not been very inviting these last days. But I hope that was the extent of your troubles. Travelling to a faraway place in such conditions can be a bit… daunting.”
She seemed amused by his words. “Indeed, Colonel. But apart from the roads’ condition, my journey was as pleasant as expected. Although, I prefer to believe it would take more than a simple tiring trip to… daunt me.”
Richard gave me a quick glance. “Something like ghosts or curses would suffice?”
Miss Lucas kept her enigmatic smile. “Oh, Colonel. You are very charming, but I am afraid I do not believe in such things. I have seen a little of the world and I can tell you even the most complicated events can have a perfect explanation. Usually, evil human minds are behind them.”
Those words seemed to have captured my cousin’s interest. This or he was having serious problems with his eyes narrowing and blinking.
“How fascinating. Which part of the world would that be?”
“My father used to be an army doctor, Colonel. After his elder brother died, he inherited the family estate and retired from the army. The whole family moved from London to Meryton. But during Nelson’s campaign against Napoleon, he volunteered to help in a hospital in Spain. That act granted him his knighthood. But while he was there, there was an outbreak of influenza in our region. I was only fifteen at the time, but I insisted on helping. After caring for my three young brothers and neighbours, I was as proficient as a proper nurse. Later, when all of them were off to Harrow for most of the year and did not need me as before, I followed Papa to Spain when he returned there some years later. He was not happy with my decision, but knowing how battlefield hospitals could be, he relented. I visited Spain, Portugal and Morocco.”
“Your mother must have been beside herself with you two,” Richard said smiling.
“My mother died some months after giving birth to my younger brother. That is why I looked after them. But if I remember correctly, my father’s medical involvement with the army was because of her encouragement. She was a brave woman.”
Richard gave me another glance, but this time his mirth had turned into something different. “I would offer you my condolences for your early loss, but considering your mother’s legacy, I think I prefer to
commend you, Miss Lucas. It seems you have been following her steps closely. Your being here in the name of your friendship with Mrs Darcy is the best example of it.”
If the lights were stronger, I would say Miss Lucas had blushed at Richard’s honest compliment. Whether that was the case, it soon passed as she gave us an inquisitive look. “Now, gentlemen, considering what I heard about Edith locking herself inside her house and refusing to see anyone after returning from here, I confess I am quite curious.” She paused, pursing his lips at the sight of our involuntary reaction. “But I will save you the inconvenience and let Lizzy give me the details. Now,” she continued, turning to me. “Allow me to congratulate you on your nuptials, Mr Darcy. You are a very fortunate man. Elizabeth is the best friend anyone could ever asked for. I believe she will be the same as a wife.”
Mrs Bingley entered the room carrying the tea tray.
“She already is, Miss Lucas. Thank you. If you will excuse me, I shall leave you in Mrs Bingley’s competent hands and return to my wife. She will be glad to know you have arrived safely. Good night.”
When I closed the door behind me, I could hear Richard’s saying something that made Miss Lucas laugh.
I smiled. Had Richard finally found his brave woman?
Chapter 26
Elizabeth
I woke up feeling quite warm.
Stretching my arms, I felt a new contentment overflowing me. I was so happy to be feeling better again. No more short-breaths, no more fever and cold shivers. Being so ill had been a terrible experience. Time and places were blurred in my memory. I could remember just part of what had happened, and most of it did not make any sense.
No more.
After William explained that our whole experience was nothing more than an intricate farce, I felt even better. I thought I had lost my mind.
Turning in bed to find a fresher part, I bumped into a massive body sharing my bed.
William…
I could not remember many things, but I would never forget I was finally married to the man of my dreams. And if that were ever to happen, the stunning diamond ring on my finger would certainly be a good reminder.
Biting my lips, and making a great effort not to giggle, I turned to face my husband. God, he was magnificent! His parted lips, his dishevelled hair and the overnight stubble on his face were almost begging for my touch. I lowered my eyes from his face, travelling down the length of his neck. His arm was bare, as was his chest.
I stopped. Is he…?
Widening my eyes, I lay on my back and turned my gaze to the canopy of our four-poster bed, a wave of embarrassment burning my whole face up to the tips of my ears. Considering he was not wearing a nightshirt, he probably was...
Elizabeth, you silly ninny! He is your husband now!
Well, thank God for that for I could not help but return my eyes to him and admire his manly beauty.
This time a giggle did escape. I covered my mouth quickly, taking a deep breath. Once under control again, I reminded myself of what Da Vinci had said, that “all our knowledge has its origin in our perceptions”. And nothing feeds perception better than observation.
I resumed my exploration, now observing every detail I had not dared to notice before; the thick lashes of his eyes; the curves of his nose, his—
He moved. I held my breath, closing my eyes, pretending I was sleeping.
How much sillier could I be?
I reopened one eye, then the other, holding back another giggle and sighing in relief as he continued to sleep.
An angry scar on his shoulder caught my attention. He had said that during his attempt to save his aunt and cousin he had hit a rock and hurt himself. If that scar was any indication, that accident had been much worse than I had thought.
I shook my head remembering all the pain he had shared with me. This time, however, that memory only strengthened my resolution to do whatever was in my reach to make him happy and keep a smile on his face.
My gaze lingered on his large chest, dusted by soft hairs. Going up, my eyes travelled back to his face as his lips turned up and his eyes… stared me.
“Do you like what you see?”
I startled and jumped back, the sudden movement making me dizzy. “Good gracious, William!” I said, bringing my hand to my chest.
A loud laugh escaped his lips. “Sorry, Elizabeth. I did not mean to frighten you,” he said, bringing me into his embrace. “I was too entranced observing you... Are you well?”
I melted into his arms, as my head rested on the curve of his neck, his overnight stubble caressing my cheek. I inhaled his presence and sighed contentedly. “I am feeling much better, thank you. Did you sleep well?”
He released me, looking into my eyes, a smirk on his face. “I had some trouble falling asleep last night… something to do with a lavender scent assaulting my senses. But once I slept, I slept well.” He kissed my head and his expression sobered. “We should get dressed. You are too much a temptation right now.”
I felt a sudden disappointment. It was not as if I was weak as a kitten, was it?
Resigned, I nodded. As soon as I sat up, his words made sense as my dizziness intensified.
I turned to him and he was already buttoning his breeches and ringing the bell. “Forgive me, Elizabeth, but I will leave you now. A maid will be here shortly. I will ready myself in my old bedroom.”
He was not avoiding me. He was protecting me from himself.
I could not help it. I stumbled after him and wrapped my arms around his waist, kissing his back. “Thank you for being so patient—”
He turned and in a second his lips were on mine in a breathtaking kiss. “Get ready,” he said panting. “Miss Lucas arrived last night. I believe you have a lot to discuss. Now push me away, or I will not be able to leave.”
***
“Charlotte!” I cried, entering the breakfast room. “I am so happy you came.”
“Lizzy!” She stood up and enveloped me in a warm hug. “Oh, Lizzy! How could I not? We were all very concerned about you. Once our fathers resigned themselves to the truth I was coming, Mr Bennet commissioned me to check you were being as well cared for as Mr Darcy had promised.” She let go of me and gave me an exploratory look. “You have lost weight, but apart from that, you are as beautiful as ever. Marriage suits you, it seems. I was so worried. It is good to know I was exaggerating as usual.”
When we concluded our girlish greeting, she returned to her plate, and I dug into the one William had put in front of me. My appetite was steadily returning.
As I sat, I looked around and noticed Charles was the only one absent from the table — which was not his custom. I hoped everything was well.
I turned to Charlotte. “Thank you for your concern. But I am afraid what happened to William and me is much worse than anything you could possibly have imagined.”
She stopped her fork midway to her mouth. Her round eyes moved from one face to another, as if waiting for someone to burst into laughter. “Lizzy, what are you saying?” For some reason, she looked at the colonel’s sombre expression before turning back to me.
“I have been ill in bed for a whole week now. Yesterday was the first day I was out of my bedroom, and for two hours only, even though it was my wedding day. Today is my first breakfast downstairs since then.”
She grabbed my hand. “I am not more scared because I can see you are well, but what happened?”
Mindful of my recovery, William, Dr Alden and the colonel took their turns explaining our bizarre adventure. Some facts were not entirely familiar even to me. I had been so ill that I barely remembered anything after walking the corridors of that mine. But I could feel the pain in William’s eyes and the strength of his hand holding mine as he told Charlotte how the supposed creature had promised me a slow and agonising death.
Charlotte looked at the colonel. “You did not mention any of this yesterday, Colonel.”
His throat worked hard before he answered. “And I beg your pard
on for it, Miss Lucas. After our experience with Miss Wiley, I decided to be more cautious before revealing the facts.”
She gave him a shy smile. “I understand. Considering everything you all have been through, I believe it is only natural to be sure. What are you planning to do now?”
William and the Colonel exchanged a glance.
“About the ‘ghosts’ there is nothing we can do for now,” William answered. “But about the break in, we have the local magistrate personally involved in the case. He came yesterday and checked around the house, noting everything. Now we can only wait.”
Charlotte whistled in a very unladylike way, which caused the colonel to chuckle.
“I beg your pardon,” Charlotte said raising her hands, “but I am still struggling to understand all of it. Why would someone give himself such trouble? Zarabatanas, poisoned darts, walking shadows? Good gracious! It could be the plot of a Gothic novel!”
William chuckled. “I have said exactly the same thing.”
Jane raised her shy voice. “Do you think it is possible they are doing all of this to cover something else? I mean, perhaps something illegal?”
All six pairs of eyes turned to her. Despite the effusive blush on her cheeks, she bore our inquisitive gazes with her chin high. It was a reasonable question.
“Darc—”
“Richar—”
William and the colonel called each other at the same time. Then they stopped, frowning at each other, exchanging a wordless dialogue.
“Darcy,” the colonel said at last. “Mrs Bingley is right. Something else is afoot here. This is too much a farce for something as trivial as a land dispute, or whatever we might have thought.”
“Yes, but what?”
“Perhaps it is time for us to pay Mr Pascoe another visit, and ask him some questions of our own this time.”