Page 38 of A Question of Character

“No,” Darcy answered, and then, because that was inadequate, “I have heard the same.”

“You recommend Derbyshire first, of course.”

“I do.”

“And Ramsgate second?”

Darcy made himself answer. “For Georgiana, yes.”

“For me?”

“For you...” He paused long enough that Mr. Gardiner became interested in his teacup. “For you, I would recommend any place with walks worth taking and people sensible enough not to hurry you through them.”

Elizabeth’s expression shifted, though she lowered her eyes before he could read it properly.

“That is a very particular recommendation.”

“I am improving under your instruction.”

Mrs. Gardiner stood then, declaring they had trespassed long enough upon Mr. Darcy’s afternoon. Georgiana protested with unusual boldness, insisting Elizabeth had promised to hear the final section of the piece, and Elizabeth promised to come again before they left town.

Before they left town.

Darcy walked them to the hall. The servants brought bonnets, gloves, shawls. Mr. Gardiner thanked him for tea and reminded him of a warehouse appointment. Mrs. Gardiner offered a warm farewell to Georgiana and then, to Darcy, a look that held more sympathy than he wished anyone to see.

Elizabeth paused beside him while her aunt adjusted her gloves.

“I hope Miss Darcy enjoys Ramsgate,” she said. “She speaks of it with such happiness.”

“I hope so too.”

“And you, Mr. Darcy?”

“I beg your pardon?”

“Will you enjoy it?”

Darcy looked toward the open doorway, where the carriage waited beyond the steps and the late afternoon light silvered the street. “I shall enjoy seeing her happy.”

Elizabeth’s smile was small and very kind. “That is not quite the same thing.”

“No,” he said. “It is not.”

Her aunt called her name.

Elizabeth drew on her gloves. “Then I hope Ramsgate surprises you.”

“So do I.”

The Gardiners descended the steps. Elizabeth followed, but before entering the carriage she looked back at Georgiana, who stood beside Darcy with both hands clasped before her.

“You must practice that passage more slowly,” Elizabeth called.

Georgiana grinned. “I shall.”

“And you must not allow your brother to pretend he does not enjoy difficult music. He is very proud of you when you conquer it.”

Georgiana looked up at Darcy, delighted. “Are you?”