Page 34 of Grief and Grievances
"Please allow me to explain," he implored, desperation evident in his voice. "I assisted his sisters in persuading him away from Netherfield in the autumn, and I withheld information regarding your sister's presence in London. At the time, I believed I was acting in Mr. Bingley's best interest, for I feared that your sister did not share his affections. I now realise the error of my ways, and I am committed to making amends."
Elizabeth's eyes widened, and for a moment, Darcy feared her reaction. But then, much to his relief, she offered him a soft smile. "Mr. Darcy, I understand that my sister does not always allow her feelings to be seen by those who are not intimate with her… and I also recognise that our family's behaviour may have influenced your actions. Your willingness to accept your error and work towards rectifying it speaks volumes about your character. I believe you have learned from your mistake, and I thank you for your sincerity."
The gratitude in her voice was unmistakable, and Darcy could not help but feel a surge of warmth towards her.
“I must go and tell Jane about Mary’s letter, and your kind offer to convey us home next week,” Elizabeth said. “I will let you know soon if that will be acceptable.”
He offered her a small bow. “I am at your service, Miss Elizabeth.” He watched her walk away and resolved to wait where he was for her response. Pacing the gardens slowly, he considered what he must do in order to raise himself in Elizabeth’s estimation.
The sun cast long shadows across the garden, dappling the ground with a golden hue as Elizabeth approached Darcy once more.
"Mr. Darcy," she began, her eyes alight with gratitude, "I have spoken with Jane, and we are both most appreciative of your generous offer to transport us home to Longbourn. We shall gladly accept."
Darcy's heart swelled with satisfaction as he bowed his head in acknowledgement. "You are most welcome, Miss Bennet. I am glad that I could be of assistance." His mind wandered briefly to the possibility of further aiding her family, but he quickly reined in those thoughts, focusing on the matter at hand.
As they continued their conversation, Darcy's thoughts drifted to his sister Georgiana, and wondered if she would like to accompany them on their journey. He knew that her presence would bring comfort to both him and Elizabeth, and he hoped that the experience would aid in healing the wounds left by Wickham's deceit.
"Miss Elizabeth, I would like my sister Georgiana to accompany us," Darcy informed her. "I trust you would not object to her company?"
"Of course not, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth replied warmly. "She is most welcome, and I look forward to getting to know her better. However, you must recall; Mr. Wickham is still in Meryton, and I would not for anything have Georgiana exposed to any distress by coming face to face with him again.”
“I will discuss the matter with Georgiana, but I believe her strong enough to face him if need be, knowing what he is,” Darcy said after a moment’s introspection. “I will seek to ensure that they never do come face to face, however, by limiting Georgiana to Netherfield or Longbourn, two houses to which I am sure Wickham will never have entry, at least once you have spoken to your father about him.”
“As to that, Mr. Darcy.” She paused delicately before continuing. “What, exactly, do I have your permission to share with my father regarding the true nature of your dealings with Mr. Wickham?”
It revolted Darcy to even think of the blackguard, but silence was complicity, and he had remained silent too long. Who knew how many innocents Wickham had already preyed upon in Hertfordshire? He could only pray that Elizabeth’s sisters were not among them.
“I will speak to your father myself, Miss Elizabeth,” he said, “and ensure he, and the other good people of Hertfordshire, are no longer left in ignorance of the type of viper they have been harbouring in their midst.”
The sparkling look of approval Elizabeth bestowed on him then was all the praise and thanks Darcy felt he would ever need.
"Thank you," Elizabeth replied, her voice filled with warmth and sincerity. "We shall begin our preparations immediately."
"I trust your conversation with Miss Jane was fruitful?" Darcy asked, hoping to continue the conversation with her further.
"Indeed, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth replied, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "She is overjoyed by the news of Mr. Bingley's imminent return to Netherfield, and we are both eager to make our way back to Longbourn."
"Miss Elizabeth," Darcy said, hesitating for a moment before continuing. "I must confess that I find myself humbled by your graciousness and your willingness to see the good in others, even in those who have wronged you."
"Oh, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth responded softly, her gaze meeting his. "We are all imperfect beings, and it is our duty to strive for betterment—both in ourselves and in our relations with others. I believe that you have done so, and I am honoured to call you my friend."
Her words, spoken with sincerity and warmth, resonated deeply within him. The bond that had formed between them, built upon a foundation of honesty and mutual respect, filled him with a sense of purpose and fortitude.
Late afternoon sunlight filtered through the music room’s windows, casting a warm glow over Georgiana in her favourite spot, seated at the pianoforte, music pouring from her fingers as she played a delicate air. The sight of her stirred a deep affection within Darcy, and for a moment he hesitated, unwilling to disrupt her peace.
"Georgiana," he said softly, drawing her attention. She stopped playing and looked up, her eyes wide with surprise, and Darcy felt a pang of guilt for interrupting her solitude. "I have something important to discuss with you."
"Of course, Fitzwilliam," she replied, folding her hands in her lap. "What is it?"
"Miss Elizabeth has informed me that she and Miss Bennet will be returning to Longbourn shortly," he explained, watching as a flicker of sadness crossed her features. "They have kindly allowed us to accompany them, and I thought it might be an excellent opportunity for you to visit our Hertfordshire acquaintances."
"Would you truly allow me to join you?" she asked, her eyes brightening and her voice trembling with excitement. "I have grown quite fond of the Bennet sisters, and I should dearly miss them if they were to leave without me."
"Of course, my dear sister," Darcy assured her, his heart swelling at her eagerness. "It is only fitting that we all travel together, as friends. We will stay with my friend Bingley at Netherfield, which is close by Longbourn, and you may further your acquaintance with all of the Bennets."
"Thank you, dear brother!" Georgiana exclaimed, her face lighting up with joy.
Satisfied with her reaction, Darcy took his leave, seeking out Lady Catherine in her drawing-room. The grand lady sat regally, her countenance a mask of practiced indifference; however, as he relayed the news of the impending departure, her façade cracked, revealing genuine distress.
