Page 24 of The Heir and Spare
Any help anyone could give Fitz would take him one step closer.
As is, he knew where to look next. Wickham had an accomplice in his efforts to deceive Georgiana. And that accomplice lived in London.
Fitz left word everywhere he could and then made arrangements to travel to London. He had one more stop, possibly two, before making the quick journey.
He didn’t know how much—or if—to apprise Charles and so he avoided Netherfield. Some things were best handled alone. He’d have to consider the best course of action regarding Charles and the loss of his heart to Miss Jane. He wasn’t even certain what to advise his own self and his odd relationship with the man. He ran a hand through his hair not caring one whit that it was now a flyaway mess all over his head.
Horse hooves sounded outside Darcy’s window. An express rider flew down the street and stopped at Darcy’s door below. A servant brought the note. They’d found Wickham! He handed some coin to the servant for the rider and ordered his carriage prepared and things packed immediately.
If he made haste, everything could be resolved before sundown tomorrow. He pressed his lips together. Or it would all be ruined. So much depended on the next several hours.
Chapter 14
Elizabeth
Lizzie hurried up the steps of Netherfield Park with Mary in tow. “I cannot believe she is here with only servants and Charles to care for her.” Mary sniffed. “Caroline has left. It’s hardly appropriate and with Lydia running off we can only be too careful.”
“Don’t be too quick to pass judgment, Mary. I bet Charles was the most attentive of hosts.”
She snorted.
With half a smile, Lizzie shook her head. “And the most appropriate. I do not believe Charles would dare do a thing to damage our Jane no matter how much he’d want to.”
“But the appearances.”
Lizzie placed a hand on her sister’s arm. “Which is why we are here and why you are to remain.”
“Is there a reason you are not the sister to stay? I would think you be the most suited. And the one Jane prefers.”
Lizzie studied her sister but the expression that stared back was purposefully devoid of emotion. “Mary. She does not most prefer me. I do believe we are the closest friends. Closest in age you know. But she loves you all dearly. I hope you know that.”
Mary hesitated a moment but then nodded. “I do. She is the kindest and most caring. I lack for nothing as her sister.”
Lizzie vowed to do better by way of Mary. She was definitely a much-overlooked member of the family.
“It needs to be you because someone has to manage our mother.”
Mary did not respond, but Lizzie guessed she’d far rather care for Jane than for Mother’s fits and blaming the world for her daughter’s plight. Lizzie wanted to be there to hear any news of Lydia as well. Perhaps there was some reason to hope, some small chance that all would still be saved.
Darcy’s laughing, teasing eyes came to her mind. Her heart sped. He was so much more than she’d ever given him credit for being. He was kind and giving and caring. She could not account for his behavior toward them in Meryton, but at the house party and since, he’d been all that she’d ever want in a man’s treatment. She sighed. And so very handsome. Her cheeks colored. Why had he stepped in where Jane and Bingley were concerned? Perhaps all was well now that she was apparently at Netherfield?
“Are you well, Lizzie?” Mary studied her closely.
Lizzie fanned herself. “I do hope so.” She shook her head. “I am not ill, that is for certain. Now come. Let’s at least alert the servants we are lurking on their doorstep.”
But as they approached the front door, it opened and Charles appeared on the foot tails of their butler.
The servant stepped aside, bowing.
“Please come in. Miss Bennet, Miss Bennet. I am too pleased to see you. I do believe Jane will be much relieved.” He bowed over their hands and then led them up the stairs. “I have asked the servants to give you whatever you require. Please ask for refreshment for both yourselves and for Jane. I confess I am at a loss and she is…unwell. It concerns me greatly to see herunwell.” His face was filled with so much concern that Lizzie stopped in the hall and placed a hand on his arm. “Please do not concern yourself. She is strong and will recover, I am certain. Your care here cannot be lacking in any way.” She gave him an extra squeeze and then hurried toward the door he indicated.
The room was lovely but dark and a bit musty. Against the far wall, with covers to her chin, Jane lay shivering.
“Oh, my dear Jane.” She rushed to her side. “Mary, open the drapes please, and the windows.”
“Lizzie, you’ve come.” The hand she reached to grasp Lizzie’s was weak and clammy. Her head felt hot to the touch and damp with sweat. Lizzie pulled back her covers.
Jane groaned. “No, I am freezing.”
