Page 17 of Mr. Darcy's Complex Courtship

“That is the prevailing belief, but I have information that could cause Darcy to lose everything he owns. I have never had causeto use this before now, but I shall do so to avert his connexion to one so beneath him. You, however, can ensure he remains master of Pemberley if you end this betrothment without delay.”

She must be mad. In her agitation, she had resorted to lying. Nevertheless, a chill pervaded me. “I…I shall not.”

Lady Catherine’s discordant squeal assaulted the air. “Selfish, headstrong girl! Your answer proves you have no concern for him. You are heartless and mercenary.”

“If Mr. Darcy wants to be released from our engagement, I shall oblige him.”

“Is this your final word?”

“Yes.”

“Very well, I know how to proceed.” Lady Catherine strode away but stopped and turned round. “I send no compliments to your aunt, though she must revel in the fact I condescended to appear at her home. I take no leave of you, Miss Bennet, for you deserve no such attention. I am heartily disappointed, for I had thought better of you. But no matter, I shall prevail.”

A swell of moisture blurred my vision, and I stumbled twice on the way to the house. I came upon my aunt near the stairs and sagged forwards. My tears flowed without restraint. “Oh, Aunt, I was so happy before she came. Now I fear everything is…ruined.”

Her arms enclosed me. “There, there, Lizzy. I am certain all will be well.” She took me into the morning room, settled me on the sofa, and handed me her handkerchief. “I take it the lady disapproves of the match. Well, we cannot be surprised not everyone in Mr. Darcy’s family is in favour of the marriage. He must have anticipated this circumstance.”

I shuddered through a sob. “She…professed to have the means to take Pemberley away from Mr. Darcy.” I snuffled. “And she threatened to use this against him if…if I do not break the engagement.”

“Oh, my dear, I am so sorry. That is appalling! I cannot believe Lady Catherine’s assertion is true. Do you suppose she is rash enough to employ deception to influence you?”

“That may be the case.” I dabbed at my eyes with the cotton cloth. “I refused to acquiesce to her demand, but I told her that I shall release Mr. Darcy if that is his wish.”

Aunt Gardiner moved a stray curl from my eyes. “Do not fret. I am convinced nothing could make Mr. Darcy forsake you.”

Her affirmation acted as a balm to my frayed nerves; yet a kernel of doubt lingered. What if Lady Catherine had spoken the truth? No sensible man would give up his family home, his legacy and principal source of wealth, foranywoman.

Darcy House

Darcy

Slade greeted me at the door with a rigid deportment. “Lady Catherine arrived an hour ago, sir, and awaits you in the morning room. She has insisted upon seeing you as soon as possible on a matter of utmost importance.”

“Thank you. I did not know she had come to town.” No doubt she had kept Slade busy with her exacting demands. “I shall see her after I have changed.”

“Yes, sir.”

My aunt tended to avoid London at this time of year. What could her urgent difficulty be this time? Had she become convinced yet again her hard-working, harried steward had stolen from her?

Upon reaching my chambers, I made my ablutions, changed, and quaffed a stiff drink. When I entered the morning room, my aunt sat before a table laden with sandwiches and sweet confections, sipping a glass of sherry. “Good day, Lady Catherine. This is a surprise.”

She set down her glass with a clang, rose, and rushed towards me. “Darcy, I must speak with you on a matter of vital consequence.”

“Yes, of course. Please sit.” She reclaimed her seat on the sofa, and I sat across from her, taking in her appearance. An artless application of face-paint lent her a bizarre look.

She leaned towards me. “It is high time you and Anne became engaged.”

No—not this again. “I am sorry to disappoint you, but I shall not marry her. She and I should not suit.”

“Stuff and nonsense.” Her voice gained strength. “Anne was born to be your wife. Youmustmarry her!”

“She and I have discussed the topic, and we are in agreement.”

“If that is true, then Anne does not know what is in her own best interest! Has that cunning Bennet girl managed to turn you against your own cousin? I tried to convince the chit to cease her pursuit of you, but she is bound and determined to have your money. She will ruin you in order to get her greedy hands on your wealth!”

What had my aunt done? The liquor I had consumed earlier churned in my gut. “Do you mean to say you have spoken to Miss Bennet—here in town?”

“Yes, I called at her uncle’s home today, but she refused to see reason. You must end the betrothment at once!”

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