Conversely, if she had been wrong about Mr. Darcy’s character in the past, and her more recent observations were correct, she would have to humbly eat all the words she had ever uttered about the gentleman to her family and neighbours over the past few months, and she would give them her blessing—but only if it was what Jane wanted.
She glanced back and forth between them. While not as tall as Miss Darcy, Jane’s height surpassed most women, though she had a delicate frame. Mr. Darcy was also taller than most men and more muscular than was common, as well. Jane was the sweetest lady on earth, and that aspect of her character would soften his tendency to brood. The two were opposite in colouring—Jane fair where Mr. Darcy was dark—but both were exquisitely handsome. Each of their appearances complimented the other’s nicely; in fact, she would imagine that, with Jane on Mr. Darcy’s arm, whenever the couple entered a room, all heads would turn so they could enjoy the striking prospect they would make.
Nausea rose within her. It took a great deal of strength to suppress the shudder that passed down her spine.
Exactly what was it bothering her so much about these thoughts? Was it the likelihood she would have to admit she had been wrong about the gentleman, or could it be the possibility that Jane might become Mr. Darcy’s wife?
Chapter 7
Darcy inhaled swiftly when a tingling began at the back of his neck. Knowing from experience what would happen next, he anticipated—and even welcomed—its progression. Before long, the phenomenon expanded and altered, approximating a gentle warmth that swelled throughout his person, eventually encompassing his entire soul.
It could only mean one thing: Elizabeth’s gaze was upon him.
How odd it was he could always sense it.
Heaven help him—how he had keenly felt the absence of this sensation since he had returned to London.
Darcy fought the urge to look up, working diligently on the handkerchief in his hands instead. He could not give her any false hopes.
The first time he had experienced this feeling was in Hertfordshire. It had surprised him to realize her attention was the cause, but what shocked him more was when he suddenly understood the reason he had not noticed it sooner—most times, he had already been watching her before she looked at him. In fact, any time they were at the same gathering, he had trouble keeping his eyes off her.
Nevertheless, his purpose for remaining with the ladies today was not to watch Elizabeth’s every movement and hang upon her utterances, as his traitorous heart longed to do. His plan was only to observe her elder sister so he could decide once and for all whether she was worthy of Bingley.
The coveted sensation ended abruptly, and with it came a mixture of relief and disappointment.
From the corner of his eye, he watched as Elizabeth repositioned herself and leaned forward gracefully to reach for a new handkerchief to sew. So lovely. After smoothing the fabric, she pinned the edge with precise movements, then her fingers moved delicately to stitch the cloth.
It had been so thoughtful and considerate of her to acknowledge that he knew how to sew without passing judgement. Then, she had actually invited him to join the ladies. True, it was his house, but still, most ladies would be horrified to learn a gentleman of his stature would engage in what was traditionally considered women’s work. Meanwhile, Elizabeth had simply accepted it and moved on.
Additionally, she had already made a connection with his sister. A few moments ago, Georgiana had displayed a genuine smile towards her, and after knowing her such a brief time.
Such an occurrence could be deemed a miracle.
Miss Elizabeth Bennet was a treasure.
Suddenly realizing he was raising her up onto an even higher pedestal in his mind, he diverted his eyes to the ceiling.
His obsession with this lady had to end. Today!
Perhaps sitting with the ladies was not such a good idea after all. If he could not compel himself to learn more about Miss Bennet instead of Elizabeth, then he should leave.
A movement at the door to the corridor caught his attention. Horton entered and approached him, saying softly, “You have a visitor, sir. In your study.”
Saved by the butler!
Without asking who it was, Darcy jumped up from his chair, lay his project on the seat, then bowed to the ladies and excused himself. Escaping the room quickly, he headed towards his study.
Disappointment washed over him when he opened the door to find his attorney waiting. It was unusual for him to have forgotten any appointment. With the reminder came a renewed awareness of the many matters of business they needed to review. It would be hours before he could return to Elizabeth.
Irritated with himself, he corrected the thought to before he could return to his observation Miss Bennet for Bingley’s sake.
Chapter 8
Now that Elizabeth was not obligated to watch Mr. Darcy’s reactions every time Jane moved a muscle, she could relax. However, after a few minutes, the silence in the room began to weigh on her.
“Miss Darcy, can you tell us more about what to expect at the Saint Nicholas Day celebration?”
An excitement came over the young girl as she lowered her work to her lap. Elizabeth noticed she had become much more comfortable with Jane and herself as the day wore on. “For me, much of the enjoyment of the tradition comes in the preparation, but, oh, to watch the children’s faces when they open their gifts and see the delicacies they will consume! It is one of my favourite days of the year. Our kitchen staff is, even now, busy making chocolate for the children.”
“Will we be present when they receive the gifts?” Jane asked.
Miss Darcy nodded. “We will distribute the gifts ourselves. Our kitchen will also make other special treats, whilst Aunt Adelaide’s kitchen staff will prepare the feast. The footmen from both houses will serve the children in full livery that day. It is very special for them.”
“It sounds wonderful!” Elizabeth exclaimed. “How will we know which gifts belong to each specific child? I do know a few of their names, but not all.”
Miss Darcy glanced at the countess. “We have already transcribed the names of the children onto cards I painted earlier in the year. Tomorrow, when we bundle up the clothing and handkerchiefs, we will pin the appropriate card to each package’s ribbon. The children will also have a place card on the table before them, identical to the card attached to their gift, so we will only need to match up the names. After the children return from depositing their gifts in their rooms, their special meal will be served.”
Miss Darcy’s face blanched for a moment. “Oh, but please, do not misunderstand the way I said the last. My brother always makes certain the Children of Saint Nicholas receive the best meats and groceries year-round. He has hired a superior cook to work there, as well. However, it is only on certain days of the year—holidays and the like—when there are particular treats included.”
“As is typical for us all, is it not? I am certain the children appreciate all the efforts made on their behalf,” Elizabeth said, surprised and impressed to learn that Mr. Darcy was much more involved with the orphanage than she had originally thought. Did he truly take on the expense of the cook’s salary and providing the food for the children? It was beyond anything she had ever expected from him. A sudden sense of shame filled her for doubting his good intentions. “I will enjoy seeing the children’s faces light up when they sample these culinary delights.”