Page 22 of Mr. Darcy's Complex Courtship

“You are correct.” The singular feminine inflexion belonged to Lady Matlock. “And she made her opinions known to me as well.”

I whipped towards my aunt, whose noiseless, slippered tread had allowed her to sneak up on us. Richard and I exchanged greetings with her.

“Never before had I observed my sister-in-law in such a disturbed state. She looked as though she had not slept in a week. I assumed her to be ill, but she denied being unwell.” Lady Matlock’s gaze flitted to Richard and back to me. “Am I to understand you have committed yourself to a lady unknown to me?”

“Yes, Miss Elizabeth Bennet and I have an understanding.”

Her fingers closed around her silk scarf. “Oh dear. I never should have expected this—from Henry, yes, but not from you.”

“Do not fret, Mother.” Richard patted Lady Matlock’s arm. “I have met Miss Bennet, and she is a fine lady.”

“Have you? Ah, and I suppose you are here to advocate in support of your cousin.”

“Yes, you are correct.” Richard glanced at his watch. “Papa expects Darcy and me to join him in his study. You ought to come as well.”

His suggestion had merit: Lady Matlock’s support would be vital to Elizabeth’s acceptance in town.

“Yes, I agree.” She led the way.

We entered my uncle’s sizeable study, which featured a formidable mahogany desk situated between a pair of large windows. He kissed Lady Matlock’s cheek, held Richard’s shoulder while clapping him on the back, and gave me a more subdued greeting before directing us to seats.

Lord Matlock beheld me, and his visage took on a dark cast. “Last night, my sister demanded to see me. I had never observed her in such a state of high dudgeon, and she looked quite ill. She maintained you had been taken in by a penniless mercenary.” He released a harsh laugh. “I have never heard such slum! I trust you have an inkling of how she fell prey to this misconception.”

“I appreciate your confidence in me. My choice of wife will surprise many in our circle. Miss Elizabeth Bennet is neither rich nor well-connected, but what she lacks in material advantages is more than compensated for in her character, intelligence, and amiability. I am resolute to marry her and no other.”

Whilst Lady Matlock’s head canted downwards, Lord Matlock’s mouth opened and closed several times without him uttering a word.

My cousin coughed. “I met Miss Bennet while Darcy and I stayed at Rosings. She is a charming and self-assured lady who I believe will make Darcy a splendid wife. And he ought to be grateful she lacks a fortune—otherwise, I should have pursued her for myself.”

Despite the gleam in Richard’s eyes signifying his intent to tease me, I glared at him.

My uncle swayed his dour mien from me to Richard and back. “So the pair of you have been taken in by this temptress—she must be a talented one indeed.”

“You are speaking of my future wife.” My voice descended towards a growl.

“Father, Miss Bennet is not mercenary. Darcy can explain why this is a certainty.” Richard gripped my shoulder and gave me a significant look: he wanted me to relate my failed proposal.

I nodded my assent and provided a concise account of my rejected marriage offer at Hunsford Parsonage.

“Good God—she refused you!” Lord Matlock’s voice boomed throughout the room. He and my aunt exchanged astonished glances.

“At the time, my bewilderment rivalled yours.” I provided a summary of my past acquaintance with Elizabeth, including the lies Wickham had told her. I further revealed a protracted discussion had been necessary before she would agree to see me again in London.

My aunt adjusted her seat closer to me. “Is it possible Miss Bennet did not realise the extent of your wealth and property?”

“Or of yourconnexions?” added my uncle.

“She had a fair knowledge of my affluence and holdings, but my riches did not matter to her. She will not marry for financial gain. My character is what she values.”

Lady Matlock’s hand flickered at me. “Tell us about the lady’s family.”

“Her mother and younger sisters lack proper decorum at times, but they are no worse than Berkeley or Lady Catherine. Miss Bennet stays in town at the home of her uncle Mr. Gardiner, who owns a successful import business.”

My aunt drew in a quick breath. “Dear me.”

“She is residing with atradesman?” My uncle blanched.

“Yes. Mr. Gardiner and his wife are educated and genteel.” I steeled my spine. “Do not mistake me—my decision is final. Although I should appreciate your approval, I will marry Miss Bennet with or without it.”

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