Page 32 of Compromise & Consequence
“Yes.”
***
The carriage arrived at Darcy House and he stepped out, unconsciously squaring his shoulders before mounting the stairs. Upon entry, he asked Burke where he might find his wife and was told she was with Mrs. Whittaker. He handed off his outerwear and began his search, coming across them in the music room. Upon spying him, Mrs. Whittaker curtsied and Elizabeth stood, hands clasped in front of her. He dismissed his housekeeper and turned to address his wife.
“Good afternoon, Mrs. Darcy.”
“Mr. Darcy,” she replied with a nod of her head.
“Have you canvassed much of the house?”
“Only the first floor and we have now proceeded to the second floor and family wing.”
“What do you think of the music room?”
Elizabeth glanced about the room.
“Very bright and I see you have a fine instrument, but knowing your sister is a proficient pianist, I am not surprised.”
“Yes, Georgiana spends much time in this room.”
“I look forward to meeting your sister. Is she in Derbyshire?”
Darcy shifted on his feet, uncomfortable about where the conversation could lead.
“No, she is in town, staying with my uncle the earl, for the time being.”
He was surprised by the cold look his wife bestowed on him.
“Keeping your sister away from the vulgar, poverty-stricken filth you married?”
“I do not view you like that.”
“Do you not? Your behavior in Meryton clearly showed you held a low opinion of my family and everyone knows that you found me barely tolerable and not handsome enough to tempt you.”
His uncle was proved correct. She’d heard what he said at the assembly.
“I was wrong to say that to Bingley.”
“And yet, you did, Mr. Darcy. Your opinions were set that first night and you executed your belief to its fullest with that sham of a document you forced Mr. Bennet to sign.”
His chest burned with anger and he sought to change the subject.
“Shall we continue the tour you started?”
He dared not offer his arm, but with a wave of his hand, indicated they should proceed toward the family parlor. Once they had finished touring the various drawing rooms and he had shown her a little office his mother had used for her correspondence, he then led the way to the family wing and various bedchambers.
“This is Georgiana’s room. I will not open the door as this is her private sanctum.”
“Might I ask when I will meet my new sister?”
“She will stay with my uncle while you and I adjust to our married life.”
He thought he heard her murmur –that long?– and chose to continue the tour.
“These are my rooms.” He did not open the door, unwilling for his wife to see his private sanctuary. “And, as you well know, these are your rooms.”
He noted how she wrinkled her nose when he mentioned herrooms, but just as quick her features returned to one of calm.
