Page 26 of Unwillingly Mrs. Darcy
Kitty beamed at her. “It’s all so grand already, Miss Darcy. The estate is even lovelier than we imagined.”
Georgiana’s cheeks pinked slightly. “I am so glad you think so. There is much to see—the gardens, the park, the lake—it’s one of my favourite places to walk. I can show you anytime you wish.”
She continued eagerly, gesturing towards the sprawling grounds. “And the library! Oh, Elizabeth, I know you enjoy reading—my brother has the most magnificent collection. We will spend hours there, I am sure.”
Elizabeth offered Georgiana a grateful smile, touched by her efforts to make them feel at home.
Mr Darcy stepped closer to Elizabeth, his expression a mixture of formality and quiet sincerity. “I’ve asked that my mother’s chambers be prepared for you,” he said. “They areamong the loveliest rooms in the house, with excellent views of the gardens.”
Elizabeth was caught off guard by his thoughtfulness, her surprise evident. “Thank you, Mr Darcy. That is most kind of you.”
“Anything your sisters require,” he continued, his gaze turning towards Kitty and Mary, “will also be arranged. Pemberley is at your disposal.”
Kitty clasped her hands together. “Oh, thank you, Mr Darcy! Do you suppose we might take the carriage to Lambton soon? Aunt Gardiner has told us so much about it, and I’m simply dying to see it.”
Mr Darcy’s mouth curved in a slight smile. “Of course. We will arrange an outing at your earliest convenience.”
Mary, though less effusive, was no less curious, and spoke up. “I should like to see my chamber first. There is much to do—I must write to Mama and let her know we have arrived safely.”
Georgiana inclined her head. “Of course, Miss Mary. I think you will find your room quite comfortable, though perhaps not as quiet as the library, should you wish to write in peace.”
Mr Darcy gestured towards the doors. “Shall we?”
The group stepped inside, the grandeur of Pemberley’s entrance hall eliciting a collective gasp from the Bennet sisters. High ceilings arched above them, adorned with intricate moulding, while the polished marble floors gleamed in the soft light streaming through tall windows. A magnificent staircase wound upwards, its banisters carved with elegant patterns that spoke of craftsmanship and history.
Waiting at the base of the staircase was an older lady. Mr Darcy had told Elizabeth all about Mrs Reynolds, the housekeeper. She smiled at them, her demeanour both professional and warm.
“Welcome home, Mr Darcy,” she said with a slight curtsy, before turning to Georgiana. “Miss Darcy, it is a pleasure to have you back.”
Georgiana greeted Mrs Reynolds with evident fondness, then introduced her to Elizabeth and her sisters. “This is Mrs Reynolds. She has been with us since I was a child and oversees the entire household.”
Elizabeth smiled politely. “It is a pleasure to meet you, Mrs Reynolds.”
“And an honour to meet you, Mrs Darcy,” Mrs Reynolds replied with a kindly expression. “We are so delighted to welcome you to Pemberley.”
Elizabeth felt a slight flush creep into her cheeks at the title, but she managed a gracious nod.
Mrs Reynolds turned to Kitty and Mary, greeting them as well, before indicating that refreshments had been prepared in the drawing room should they desire them after the tour of the house.
The steward, Mr Somerville, joined them next, introducing himself and offering assurances that any practical needs regarding the estate would be managed promptly. His efficient manner made it clear Pemberley’s operations were in steady hands.
Georgiana took charge of the tour, leading the way through grand halls, richly appointed sitting rooms, and the library, which drew audible gasps from Mary and Elizabeth alike.
“This is magnificent,” Elizabeth murmured, marvelling at the towering shelves filled with books of every description.
Mr Darcy stood nearby, observing her reaction with a hint of quiet satisfaction. “It is yours now as well,” he said simply, before excusing himself to attend to estate matters.
As they moved on, Georgiana proved to be an adept guide, balancing information with her natural warmth. She pointed out features of the estate with enthusiasm—the artwork in the gallery, the guest quarters, and the central dining room, which was both impressive and welcoming.
Mary was content to observe, clearly taking mental notes on everything she saw, while Kitty chattered incessantly about all the possibilities for their stay.
“I had no idea Pemberley would be so splendid,” Kitty said as they entered yet another grand room. “No wonder Aunt Gardiner was so eager to tell us about it!”
Elizabeth was quieter, taking in everything with measured contemplation. Georgiana’s sweet and unassuming nature, coupled with Mr Darcy’s efforts to provide for her family, began to form a complex picture in her mind. As they ascended the staircase to view their chambers, she found herself wondering if she had ever truly understood him—or, indeed, his world.
“Your rooms are here,” Georgiana said, opening a door to reveal a beautifully appointed suite. “I do hope you find them to your liking.”
“They are lovely,” Elizabeth assured her, though a small knot of unease lingered in her chest.
