Page 43 of Midnight at Pemberley

“I would give my life for Elizabeth. I have never known a finer woman.”

Jane explained, “Mr. Darcy saved Elizabeth’s life twice, Aunt.”

“Twice?” Mr. Gardiner demanded.

“I will explain more later. We have so much to do before the wedding, but suffice it to say, without William, I would not be alive.”

“It was romantic,” Jane volunteered. “Mr. Darcy left Netherfield, but he realized he did not want to lose Lizzy, so he returned for her. Fortunately, he came across a suspicious situation. A stranger attacked Elizabeth. Mr. Darcy fought him off.”

“That is the reason for our hurried marriage,” Elizabeth confided. “I was so happy to see William that I foolishly threw myself into his arms. Unfortunately, Papa and some of our servants burst into the room and found us in a compromising position. Mr. Darcy felt it best we marry quickly to protect my reputation.”

“But do you wish to marry Mr. Darcy?” her uncle asked.

“Yes, Uncle, I do. Mr. Darcy is my chosen mate.”

“Then that is all that matters, Lizzy. Neither your aunt nor I wish to see you forced into marriage. How might we assist you two with the upcoming wedding?” Gardiner offered.

“Unfortunately, I must leave to make arrangements.” Darcy explained. “When I returned for Elizabeth, my baggage continued on with Mr. Bingley. I have Mr. Bennet’s permission and the other documents in my pocket. I must call upon the local vicar to arrange for a license and make a call upon my sister to impart my good news.”

“Do you require my carriage, Mr. Darcy?”

Darcy prepared to take his leave. “Mr. Bennet’s carriage will see me to Darcy House. But if you would provide me the name of the parish church your family prefers, I will see to the details of the ceremony.” As he stood, Darcy reached for Elizabeth. “Would you see me out, my dear?”

“May I take Miss Darcy’s acquaintance this evening?”

“I would relish that very thing if your aunt and uncle could spare you for supper. Moreover, it would provide you an opportunity to view your new London home.”

“Would you and your sister care to join us for the evening meal, Mr. Darcy?” Mrs. Gardiner asked reluctantly. Her expression remained troubled.

“Aunt, such is too much on such short notice. I would not have our intrusion upset your household. If you are willing, I will meet Miss Darcy this evening. From all of William’s reports, his sister is quite shy. Greeting her brother’s future wife and my family might be too much for her at one time. Shall we dine together tomorrow instead?”

“Excellent solution, Lizzy.” Mr. Gardiner declared. “But Jane must accompany you as your chaperone.”

“Then it is settled,” declared Elizabeth. “Now, off with you,” she said to Darcy as she maneuvered him towards the door. Alone in the entrance hall, she went up on her tiptoes to kiss his cheek.

Darcy caressed her face. “I will call for you at four, if that is acceptable. That will provide you time to tour the house before Georgiana arrives. She will delight in the opportunity to speak privately.”

Elizabeth caught his hand in her two. “William, I vow to make you proud. I will do my best for Georgiana, and I will learn to be a proper wife.”

“Listen to your intuition, and we will live well together. Now, I must leave. Your father’s coach awaits. I promised to return it today.” He kissed her knuckles tenderly. “I anticipate presenting you to my staff and family.” In the carriage, Darcy felt both joy and trepidation. How they would get on would prove him blessed or plagued by temptation.

Surprisingly, Elizabeth convinced her relations to permit her to dine at Darcy House without the company of her sister. They sent a maid instead. Darcy called promptly at four, arriving in a sociable, which he explained was a phaeton with a double body. Even though the air was crisp, Elizabeth loved the idea of an open carriage. “I thought you might wish to view a bit of London’s architecture.” Darcy placed Elizabeth’s hand on his arm as he escorted her to his vehicle.

“I have never ridden in a sociable. I was not even assured it was a real carriage,” Elizabeth confided.

Darcy flashed her a wicked grin. “Our adventure continues! You will enjoy the wind in your face.” After the Gardiner maid climbed on the bench with Darcy’s driver, he mounted the carriage beside Elizabeth, offering her a lap rug for warmth.

The coachman maneuvered the carriage into the late afternoon traffic of the warehouse district. Once they were on their way, he leaned close to whisper, “You are very handsome, Vixen.”

“Do you find my new cloak flattering?” she asked coyly.

The corners of Darcy’s mouth turned up. “It enhances your eyes, Miss Elizabeth. I find the garment quite enchanting.”

“It was a gift,” she bantered. “From a wealthy gentleman.”

“I seem to recall that I am that wealthy gentleman.” He caught her hand up to rest in his lap.

They sat in silence for several moments. “I assume you procured the license,” she ventured.