His Uncle's Favorite

by Lilian, Lory

  “Dearest, do not leave; Darcy will fetch you shortly,” the colonel intervened, and all the ladies turned to him. “I met Darcy an hour ago. He had some business, but he will join us soon to take you home.”

  After a moment of hesitation, Miss Darcy resumed her place on the settee while Elizabeth wondered what extraordinary event might entice Mr. Darcy to Cheapside. Did Mr. Darcy even know where Cheapside was?

  “Miss Elizabeth, I hope I am not interrupting your thoughts,” said the earl.

  “No, your lordship,” Elizabeth replied warmly. He remained silent a few moments before a smile spread over his face as he asked Elizabeth for coffee. She obliged and offered him a cup.

  “So, Miss Elizabeth, you had the pleasure of meeting Wickham recently?”

  “Mr. Wickham? Yes…yes, I did.”

  “Was he in good health? When did you last see him?”

  “Yes, he was in excellent health. I saw him a few days ago.”

  “Really? What on earth was that rascal doing in Hertfordshire? I hope he is not in any trouble.” Unlike his words, the earl’s voice sounded caring; his concern was obvious.

  “No indeed; why would your lordship believe him in trouble? Mr. Wickham is an officer in a militia regiment encamped in Meryton for the winter.”

  “Oh, I see… He is an officer now? Well, I imagine he looks very handsome in uniform.”

  “He does.” Elizabeth laughed. “All the ladies in Meryton share my opinion.”

  “So, did you fall under the charms of Wickham, too?” The earl’s question would have offended Elizabeth had his voice and open smile not shown utter amusement.

  “I am not certain what you mean, sir. Mr. Wickham and I are good friends.”

  “I am happy to hear that. Well, I am content to know he is well for now. He would have approached me if he were otherwise, I suppose.”

  He remained silent, and Elizabeth was not certain how to continue. She looked around the room and noticed Miss Darcy looking at them intensely.

  “Lord Matlock, may I dare ask… Are you well acquainted with Mr. Wickham?”

  “Quite well, indeed. His father had the management of Pemberley for many years. Oh, forgive me; Pemberley is Darcy’s estate. My late brother Darcy was Wickham’s godfather. I have known Wickham since he was an infant.”

  He seemed lost in his thoughts, and again, Elizabeth could not find the proper words to inquire further. Fortunately, the earl continued his confession.

  “Yes, since he was an infant…that little rascal… Miss Elizabeth, do you think you could find something stronger than this coffee? Some brandy, perhaps?”

  “Sorry? Oh, yes, certainly. I will take care of it immediately.” Elizabeth hurried and asked the servant for some brandy then returned to the earl.

  “I am pleased to know Mr. Wickham had you to support him in times of need, Lord Matlock. It is a relief to know he is a favourite of yours. I know he had little support from Mr. Darcy. They do not appear to be on the best of terms.”

  “You are correct, Miss Elizabeth. Now they are grown, neither Darcy nor my sons are very fond of Wickham.”

  “I imagine they are reluctant to share a friendship with someone beneath them…”

  “In this I am not certain you are correct. If they changed their behaviour towards him, they had good reasons. Some of the reasons I am aware of, some not, but I cannot blame any of them, nor can I intervene between them. And I cannot demand they be as forgiving as I am of Wickham’s faults.”

  “I am sure Mr. Wickham has his faults, but do not we all? And I think the punishment should be no more severe than the fault.”

  “You must not worry, dear Miss Elizabeth; no matter what Wickham might have told you, you must not take it seriously. No one is punishing Wickham, though he has changed in the last few years, and not for the better. I can understand why my nephew and my sons are not easy with his misbehaviour.”

  Elizabeth tried to control her temper, though it was difficult. She could not understand how the earl could declare his affection for Mr. Wickham and accept so easily his rejection by the younger men in the family.

  “It might be correct—or not. Miss Elizabeth, you have a quick mind and hasty judgement. I enjoy speaking to you, but if you were my daughter, I would warn you to be cautious when you form your opinions. It might be dangerous…”

  He was speaking in jest, so she replied in like manner. “Sir, had I the honour of being your daughter, I would happily accept your warnings.”

  He kissed her hand, and they moved together to the settee where the others were gathered. A few steps away, Miss Darcy poured herself a cup of tea. Elizabeth offered to help her whilst the earl asked for the favour of a second glass of brandy. He then turned to Georgiana and whispered so only she and Elizabeth could hear.

  “Georgie sweetie, can you keep a secret? I was just speaking to Miss Elizabeth about Wickham. She met him in Hertfordshire; he has joined the militia. What do think of that? And Miss Elizabeth testified he looked handsome in uniform.”

  Miss Darcy turned white, her hands trembling, and she dropped her cup of hot tea on her dress. Elizabeth hurried to see whether she had harmed herself. Mrs. Gardiner and Jane joined them and, with great distress, discovered that Miss Darcy’s hand was injured. Tense moments followed, and the ladies retired to the music room where Miss Darcy was given proper care; the gentlemen remained silent and confused.

  Miss Darcy’s hand was only slightly burned; it was red and a trifle painful, but her embarrassment was greater. She continued to assure her hostess that she was well and apologised for her clumsiness, asking them to return to the gentlemen.

  After a quarter hour, Mrs. Gardiner declared everything was fine and they could all return to the drawing room. Unexpectedly, this time Miss Darcy hesitated.

  “Mrs. Gardiner, please be so kind and tell my uncle and my cousins that I am perfectly fine and I will return shortly. I do not want to give anyone reason to worry.”

  Mrs. Gardiner understood that the girl wished to avoid being the centre of the gentlemen’s attention and would rather return after Mrs. Gardiner gave them the details and explanations. She could easily sympathise with her.

  “I will remain with Miss Darcy a little longer,” said Elizabeth, and Mrs. Gardiner seemed pleased with her offer. She and Jane left the room while Elizabeth turned to Miss Darcy.

  For a few moments there was silence; they both searched the room with curious gazes, stared at the fire, and then the piano.

  “It is a fine instrument,” Miss Darcy said.

  “It was a gift from my uncle for my aunt’s birthday three years ago. He loved music…”

  “Oh, I did not mean to… I am sorry; I know it might be difficult to—”

  “Do not worry, Miss Darcy. I miss my uncle very much, and though it makes me sad, I enjoy speaking of him.”

  “I understand you perfectly well, Miss Elizabeth. Since my parents—” She suddenly stopped, uncertain whether she should continue her confession. “Oh, look, it is snowing again!” After a brief moment of confusion, they hurried to the window, staring outside at the white beauty before them. A short glance was enough approval for Elizabeth to open the window, and like children, they leaned outside to allow the snow to fall over their faces and hands.

  The door opened abruptly, but neither of them heard it as the wind blew their hair; a strong voice calling Georgiana diverted their attention, and both girls were shocked to see Mr. Darcy in the doorway, staring at them.

  ***

  All the way to Cheapside, Darcy struggled to escape the feeling that he was making a mistake. He had no reason to be there, and his mind and common sense insisted that he should return and allow his cousins to take Georgiana home. Was it acceptable for Georgiana to stay at Mrs. Gardiner’s so long? He would fetch her and leave shortly; that was his decision. He had no reason to remain a moment longer than necessary. His sister had stayed too long already.

  When the driver stopped and invited him to s
tep out, Darcy’s first thought was to admire the house. The second was to take off his gloves; his hands felt unusually warm, though the air was freezing.

  He entered and allowed the servant to introduce him, wondering whether the others would be pleased to see him. Did they know he would come? The colonel probably informed them—that is if he remembered my request and is not preoccupied with his other companions, Darcy thought as the door opened widely.

  He glanced around the room, and the first thing he noticed was that she was not there. A moment later, while he was greeting his hostess, he noticed his own sister was not there either. Surely, it was expected of him to inquire about Georgiana. He was informed about the little accident and about Georgiana’s being in the music room with Miss Elizabeth and instantly replied, “I wish to see her—thank you.” As his steps took him closer to the music room, he felt worry and concern taking control; a cold shiver travelled along his spine, and his skin burned under his neck cloth.

  The servant was dismissed, and Darcy stood a few moments before the closed door, breathed deeply, and finally entered—only to stand still again. Near the open window, leaning outside with hands and hair fully exposed to the falling snow and the cold wind chilling their brightened cheeks, were his sister and Elizabeth!

  The surprise was so great that he did not know what to do. In fact, he did know, but he did not want to interrupt them—yet. His eyes locked on Elizabeth’s nape where the snow had turned into drops of water and slid down to her shoulder. He saw her shiver under the cold snow and heard her lively laughter. His sister was laughing too, and for a moment, he wondered how it was possible that he only heard Elizabeth’s voice, despite the fact that he should have been worried for his sister.“Georgiana!”

  They both startled, and Elizabeth’s embarrassment was apparent. She properly greeted him, and he bowed to her then turned to his sister and asked whether she was well. Georgiana declared she was very well indeed. Only then did he observe her bandaged hand and become concerned, inquiring about her injury.

  “Oh, nothing important; there is no need to worry. I dropped the teacup and burned my hand a little. Trust me, Mrs. Gardiner’s care was completely unneeded; do not be misled by the bandages. But, Brother, you know what I have discovered? Miss Elizabeth likes winter as much as we do! It is snowing so beautifully! We shall go for a ride in the sleigh tomorrow. I must make the arrangements!”

  Georgiana’s cheerful answer and her excitement as she revealed that small piece of information made him smile in relief; she seemed very well, indeed.

  “Dearest, I am pleased you are not hurt,” he said gently. “But I will only be able to join you for the ride after noon as I have some business in the morning.”

  “I was speaking of Miss Elizabeth and me,” Georgiana replied. She saw her brother’s confusion and hurried to add, “But you are welcome to join us if you wish.”

  That was astonishing, and Elizabeth was equally amazed, so he did not know what to answer except to say, “Thank you, we shall see tomorrow,” and to politely inform his sister that it was time to leave.

  The insistence of the others convinced Darcy to stay a quarter hour—but no longer. He felt uncomfortable in the room full of people as his eyes kept turning to Elizabeth and her red cheeks and neck. He had to leave quickly as he intended.

  When the carriage began to move, he suddenly felt safer— at least for the moment—but he would have to meet her again soon. Riding in a sleigh? Surely, he could not possibly consider joining them. The earl had invited all three ladies to the opera; yes, there he may go—he must go, for sure.

  “William?” He startled and returned his attention to his sister while she spoke hesitantly. “My uncle was speaking with Miss Elizabeth about Mr. Wickham… That was why I foolishly dropped the cup of tea.”

  They looked at each other for a moment then turned to the window. The wind was blowing, and the carriage suddenly became more chilled than the road.

  Chapter 5

  Fitzwilliam Darcy was a young boy when he first understood that he and his cousins must follow rules that were not imposed upon their friend. In truth, it seemed as though George Wickham had no rules at all.

  Young master Darcy had the best tutors and a fixed schedule for study. George Wickham kept him company in class but only until he became bored, which happened frequently. It was understood that young Darcy must improve continuously to be worthy of his name and able to bear the responsibilities of his inheritance. George had no responsibilities, only the benevolence of his godfather and Lord Matlock.

  Master Darcy was taught to enjoy success and strive to be the first in any challenge. If he failed at something, it was an opportunity to try harder. If George Wickham could not finish an assignment, however, he was excused and never forced to repeat it. Mr. Darcy and Lord Matlock were severe with their children occasionally but always indulgent with Wickham.

  George Wickham came to understand that he could expect and demand to be treated leniently. It was a fact universally acknowledged that he was a charming and likeable boy—and young man. It was simply his nature, and he skilfully enhanced that quality over the years as he improved his ability to take advantage of his charm.

  Though he was aware of Wickham’s true character, it took Darcy more than ten years of struggle to deny his requests for support. He might have continued to allow himself to be deceived by Wickham’s false promises had the scoundrel not tried to wound Georgiana’s innocent heart. He remembered the moment he discovered the appalling scheme Wickham and Mrs. Younge had planned. Darcy was so angry that his first thought was to punish Wickham in such a painful way that he would never deceive anyone again. Then he stood face to face with Wickham and listened as he claimed his only interest was to make Georgiana happy; he wanted nothing except the living he was promised so he could support himself. Darcy’s most powerful feeling was disgust for the person Wickham had become, and he blamed himself for not taking measures to prevent it when the signs were there for all to see.

  Darcy was not surprised that Elizabeth was on friendly terms with Wickham; he knew that other women, more experienced than she, had surrendered to Wickham’s charms. He could not expect Elizabeth to understand Wickham’s faults after so short an acquaintance. Yet, he believed and trusted her to be wise and show prudence in everything that involved George Wickham.

  On the other hand, Darcy knew Elizabeth did not dislike him. The earl was completely wrong about that! She smiled at him, teased him, and followed him with her eyes when they were together. She was not indifferent to him, and he struggled to keep a proper distance from her and conceal any preference for her. He could not allow himself to raise expectations that could never be fulfilled.

  Fitzwilliam Darcy was certain of two things: he never had been as enchanted by any other woman, and he never would be able to propose marriage to Elizabeth Bennet. He thanked God for the disastrous situation of her family, or he would have been in real danger.

  He remembered the first time he had seen Elizabeth—and yes, he refused to dance with her. Then she refused him—twice. When she finally accepted, he could still remember the feeling of her hand in his and the pleasure of speaking with her. Even then, she mentioned Wickham with obvious insistence and interest, clearly trying to imply something. Was it possible that Wickham shared some of their history with Elizabeth? Was there nothing Wickham would do or say to give him an advantage?

  He looked at his sister again and called her name, smiling at her.

  “So, dearest, did you have a pleasant time today?”

  ***

  The house was silent again, especially silent after the departure of their guests. Suddenly, the ball—and the lack of proper gowns for the event—became the most important topic for all three ladies. While Mrs. Gardiner sent a quick note to the modiste asking for an urgent appointment the next morning, Jane paced the room in obvious preoccupation.

  “Lizzy, do you think Mr. Bingley will return in time for the ball? It would be
such a nice surprise to meet him again…”

  “We cannot be certain, but I have no doubt that, had he known there would be a ball you would attend, he would return in an instant. But, dearest, if you expect to see him, it will not be a surprise anymore.” Elizabeth laughed.

  “May I say you seem to be enjoying your time here, girls?” Mrs. Gardiner smiled. “And dare I presume you are not so opposed to the idea of a ball now, Jane?”

  “I am glad to see you are not completely displeased with the ball, either, dear Aunt,” Elizabeth said. Mrs. Gardiner turned pale.

  “You think I should not go, Lizzy? Would you agree to attend without me? Perhaps I should stay home. I am not very inclined to… I do not think I am yet prepared to…”

  “Oh no, by no means! You must go even if you do not feel inclined to dance. We certainly will not go without you—and you surely cannot disappoint Lady Selina by your absence.”

  Mrs. Gardiner tried to argue with them, but at that moment, the children entered the parlour, and the discussion ended. Only later at dinner did Jane and Elizabeth insist upon the subject again and force the promise that, without any doubt, they all would attend the ball.

  ***

  They had been in town less than a week, and each day had brought revelations for Elizabeth, some proving her previous opinions, others changing them completely.

  First, there was the conversation she had with Lord Matlock about Mr. Wickham and, partially, about Mr. Darcy. She recalled the expression on the earl’s face when he spoke of Mr. Wickham; it left no doubt that the earl was genuinely fond of the younger gentleman. Then how was it that he seemed not to worry about Wickham’s situation in life and the misfortune he suffered at the hands of Mr. Darcy?

  Perhaps it was true that Mr. Wickham had made mistakes, but those had been severely and unfairly punished by Mr. Darcy as well as the earl’s sons—no doubt out of some obligation to support their cousin—by withdrawing their good opinion and their friendship. Also, Elizabeth remembered the earl’s statement that Mr. Wickham knew how to turn things in his favour. What could he possibly mean by that?