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At Williamson’s questioning look, he added, “Simply because of her family, most especially Mrs. Bennet, I left Hertfordshire to try to forget her.”

Wise old eyes fixed on younger ones. “But my Lizzybet is unforgettable.”

Blowing out a breath, William quoted, “The heart that has truly loved never forgets, but as truly loves on to the close.” 4

“The Irish poet Thomas Moore?” Williamson ventured.

William nodded. “A hard lesson to learn! It would have saved us both a lot of heartache had I just accepted the inevitable.”

The old vicar laughed. “But, the question is, would Lizzybet have accepted marrying you as inevitable!”

Remembering her wit, impertinence and disapproval of his attitude, William shook his head. “I believe I would have had to work long and hard to be the kind of man she could respect and accept.”

“Then you should be proud.” At William’s quizzical brow, he grinned.

“Because you have become that man.”

Rosewood Manor

The drawing room

Georgiana paced back and forth across the room, her actions so very reminiscent of her brother that, unbidden, a smile formed on Evan Ingram’s lips as he sat watching. Quickly he suppressed it, fully aware that it would not do to let Ana see him smile while she was so upset.

“I am sorry. I should have been here when you returned. We could have discussed it then, and you would not have had to bear it alone.

“You cannot blame yourself because business with a tenant kept you away until after dark. Besides, I was so tired that I retired early. It was exhausting trying to convince Elizabeth that nothing has changed. She seems to be sinking into melancholy spirits again, and I do not know if she heeded my advice. I must send a note to William, for I fear what she may do.”

“I think that is a good idea. Your brother has always been able to calm her when she gets upset. Are you sure that finding those marriage certificates has caused this reversal?”

“I believe so. She did not mention anything else. Though I reminded her of William’s devotion, I think she is worried by the fact that she lived at Northgate for two years without being married.”

“I would think she would be pleased to be unmarried. That means she and your brother are free to marry and—”

“Yes, she is pleased about that,” Georgiana interrupted. “But ... but it is hard to explain. She feels as if she were a kept woman, a mistress, if you will. She fears the gossip, especially from William’s sphere, if they hear of it. She is so devoted to my brother’s welfare. It was she who pointed out that he will bear the brunt of any censure because he has to conduct business in Town.”

Evan rubbed his chin. “I can see her point, but truly, will it matter? Perhaps no one will ever know, and if so, it will not change the way Darcy feels about her. I have seen how her love has changed him. He is more like the person I knew as a boy. Surely, she can see his happiness.”

“For now, I am afraid she cannot see beyond the shame he may suffer. I pray she does not do anything foolish. I spoke to Mrs. Reynolds about keeping an eye on her, but I must be sure to check on her every day until he returns.”

“Yes, love. Do whatever you think is necessary to assure her health and safety. Darcy does not need to lose her now that he is so close to finding happiness.”

“Happiness.” She sighed. “He has had little true happiness in his life, and I fear what he would do if he lost her.”

Evan Ingram pulled his wife into a tight embrace, each closing their eyes. “Then let us pray that he never will.”

Just then, Mrs. Calvert appeared in the doorway with Millie who, upon seeing her parents, struggled to be put down. The sound of small shoes tapping on the wood floors caused the couple to open their eyes and turn towards their child.

“Millie!” They called in unison. As the small bundle of energy in pale yellow reached them, Evan leaned down to scoop her into his arms. She giggled as he placed kisses on her forehead, and then held her out so Georgiana could do the same.

“How would you like to visit the stables and see the new colt born this week?”

Small yellow curls bounced up and down. “Yes, Papa. May I?”

“Excellent! Of course you may.” Evan glanced at his wife. “If Mama will agree to join us, we shall be away. Ask her, sweetheart. Say, ‘Please, Mama.’”

Millie grinned, crinkling her nose and displaying her small white teeth. “Please, Mama.”

Georgiana chuckled, leaning in to nuzzle her hair. “I would not miss it for the world! Perhaps it is time to think of a name for him.”