Page 86 of Attempted Compromises
“You struck the perfect balance,” Elizabeth assured her. “Firm but kind. It’s clear you’re exactly what Netherfield needs.”
Jane hesitated, then said softly, “Thank you, Lizzy. I couldn’t have done this without you.”
Elizabeth smiled, taking her hand. “Nonsense, Jane. You’re a natural at this.”
Jane shook her head, her blush deepening. “Perhaps. But I do feel overwhelmed at times. I’m so grateful for Charles and his support. Lizzy, he’s…” She paused, a radiant smile spreading across her face. “He’s wonderful. I never imagined it could feel like this—to love and be loved so completely.”
Elizabeth’s chest tightened, a pang of envy slicing through her. She managed a small, forced smile. “I’m glad, Jane. Truly.”
Jane studied her for a moment, her expression softening. “And Mr. Darcy? He seems so devoted to you.”
Elizabeth looked away, her voice carefully neutral. “He is very kind. He treats me well.”
Jane’s smile widened. “Isn’t it wonderful? To be married to men who love us?”
Elizabeth nodded, the ache in her heart deepening. “Yes. Wonderful.”
The conversation turned to lighter topics, but Elizabeth’s thoughts lingered on Jane’s words. As much as she wanted to share in her sister’s joy, she couldn’t ignore the aching uncertainty in her own heart. Her marriage was not what Jane believed it to be, and though Darcy’s kindness had touched her deeply, she couldn’t shake the fear that their bond would never grow into what her sister so clearly had with Bingley.
As Jane spoke, Elizabeth clung to the thought of the Gardiners’ impending arrival. Their presence would be a much-needed respite, a reminder of the warmth and love she had always found in their company. For now, she would hold on to that hope and do her best to face the days ahead.
She pushed her own worries aside, focusing instead on the quiet joy radiating from her sister. For Jane’s sake, she would pretend—for now—that everything was as perfect as it seemed.
∞∞∞
The next few days passed in a similar manner. Mornings, theladies were often found in company with one another. The afternoon passed pleasantly in the warmth of the nursery for Darcy and Elizabeth, where they would spend time with Andrew. The boy’s giggles and wide smiles lightened Elizabeth’s heart, and she was grateful for the quiet joy of the moment.
The household gathered together for dinner in the evenings for music and cards. The nights were spent in the quiet intimacy of their bedchambers to discuss the day and their observations on all that had occurred. Elizabeth found comfort in her husband’s unwavering kindness, while he cherished her courage and wit.
It was clear that each was still tentative in their new roles as husband and wife. Elizabeth wasn’t certain how she felt about the fact that other than their first night married, Darcy would return to his own chambers to sleep after their discourse. Other than on their wedding night, he had not made any overtures to resume physical intimacy.
Perhaps he finds me displeasing?
This insecurity was reinforced one morning when she awoke to realize that Darcy never left her bed after she had fallen asleep mid-conversation. Instead, he had fallen asleep sitting next to her and remained the entire night, just as he had on their wedding night. Her movements had woken him, and he had blushed furiously before hastily retreating through the door that adjoined their rooms.
Now is not the time for such thoughts, she told herself as she stood in her bedroom before her mirror.Perhaps… perhaps I can discuss it with him tonight.
The sky was dark as the maid she’d been assigned carefully arranging the final touches to her hair. The dress Elizabeth had chosen was a rich shade of royal blue, simple yet elegant, and the firelight danced on the delicate embroidery along the neckline and sleeves. The maid stepped back, smoothing the folds of the gown before moving to adjust a curl that had strayed.
"You look lovely, madam," the maid said, stepping back to admire her work.
"Thank you, Betsy," Elizabeth replied, her voice soft but sincere. She glanced at her reflection, feeling a flutter of nervousness as she prepared to face another evening in her new role as Mrs. Darcy.
The door opened behind her, and Elizabeth turned to see Darcy entering the room. His eyes immediately sought hers, and for a moment, the world seemed to fall away. His gaze, warm and intent, swept over her before lingering on her face.
"Elizabeth," he murmured, his voice low and filled with quiet admiration.
Betsy curtsied hastily and moved toward the door, hesitating, but Darcy’s gentle nod dismissed her entirely. The maid shot Elizabeth a quick smile before disappearing, leaving the newlyweds alone.
Darcy stepped closer, his eyes not straying from Elizabeth's as he reached out to take her hand. "I find myself constantly amazed," he said, his tone soft. "You are even more radiant than I remember from this morning."
Elizabeth’s cheeks warmed, but she laughed lightly to deflect her shyness. "You flatter me, Fitzwilliam."
His lips curved into a faint smile. "It is no flattery; merely the truth." He hesitated, then glanced at the door through which the maid had disappeared. "I must arrange for you to have your own lady's maid—someone you are comfortable with and who will attend to your needs exclusively."
Elizabeth tilted her head, a teasing glint in her eye. “Will there be anyone willing to work for me if word spreads that they’re dismissed from the room so abruptly?”
Darcy chuckled, the sound low and rich. "They will have to grow accustomed to it. I intend to spend as much time alone with my wife as possible. Let them see it as romantic.”
