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“And you are not likely to meet any eligible women out here either.”

“Is that why you invited me?”

“Not truly, at least not anymore. But I cannot deny I want you to fall in love and marry.”

She studied him as he studied the stars. “I assume, since you are out here, that the group of ladies shadowing your every move, all married if I remember correctly, made some offers.”

William chuckled softly, shaking his head. “Only two, and they are married to men I admire, not that I would ever be tempted to accept.”

Georgiana squeezed his arm. “Of course you would not, but do not let these women dissuade you. There is someone who will make you the perfect wife.”

“What if I have already met the only woman I will ever love?”

Georgiana felt hot tears fill her eyes. “But, Fitzy, you cannot marry her. And what of the children you always wished for?”

“I would be happy with her alone, if she just recovers and will have me.”

“You would give up your wish for an heir?”

“You do not have children, and your marriage is happy.”

“Yes, yes it is.” She faltered. “Though Evan and I are still hopeful.”

“I am sorry, Gigi. I was not thinking. I should not have said that.”

“No apology needed. It is just a fact. But you would not even have what Evan and I have—a marriage. How can you exist being near her but not being able to have her, to make love to her as your wife?”

“I do not know. I only know that I cannot let her go.” He turned away and his head dropped. Swiftly she stepped close behind him, wrapping her arms around his waist and laying her head against his back. She held him tightly until he stopped shaking.

Finally letting go, she took his hand and pulled him around to face her. “I have not really thanked you for coming tonight. I would not have blamed you for staying home after what I did.”

“Let us not mention it again.” William said softly. “I wanted to come to honour Evan and to see you.”

“Dare I ask how my distant cousin, Miss Lawrence, is faring?”

“She is,” he searched for words that would be truthful but not upsetting to his repentant sister, “she has not responded as well as before. But I have hope that she will improve.”

She dropped her head and leaned into his chest. “I am so sorry. So very sorry.”

“I know.”

She pulled back to look up at him. “Evan and I talked about taking my drawing supplies to Pemberley to show her a little of how I learned to draw, or I could even draw a picture for her—that is, whenever I see her again.” She spoke rapidly as if any minute he might stop her, then smiled sheepishly. “I am rambling.”

He smiled. “Yes, you are, but I like your suggestion. Elizabeth has always shown a keen interest in learning.” He saddened a little. “When I knew her before, at Meryton, she was a voracious reader and knowledgeable about so many things. I feel certain she would be interested in whatever you would be willing to show her, though it may take time and effort.”

“But I have plenty of time and want to make the effort. Please let me.”

William pulled her into a hug. “Soon.”

~~~*~~~

Chapter 13

Pemberley

Richard Fitzwilliam walked into the dining room very early, hoping to find his cousin available for a private conversation. Instead, he found no one, save a servant arranging copious amounts of food on every available surface of the sideboard. The smell of freshly baked sweet rolls permeated the air, and unable to resist the temptation, he followed his nose until he stood directly in front of the delicious creations.

A half-hour later, he was uncomfortably full, and he groaned as he stood and loosened some buttons on his waistcoat. I shall not be able to mount my horse if I tarry in this idle luxury much longer.