Page 67 of Mr. Darcy's Complex Courtship

“And… May I maintain a friendship with Miss Bennet?”

“Yes, I still hold her in the utmost respect.”

“I am relieved to hear that.”

As much as I loved Elizabeth, maybe I could not have made her happy. Nevertheless, could I bear for her to be mysister-in-law? I swallowed. It seemed I had no choice. I should have to find contentment in the knowledge she and Miles had found happiness.

A recollection of Elizabeth’s cherished countenance from our last meeting at the Matlock house sprang to mind. She had been so beautiful, so enchanting and supportive. Did a strong attraction between her and Miles already exist by then?

Despite everything, I longed to see her. Besides, this conversation ought not to be delayed. She must be in a frightful state, anguished over how to confess the truth; I should spare her as much distress as possible. “I must go to see Miss Bennet.”

Her head snapped up. “What will you tell her?”

“I shall not stand in the way of her felicity. I shall give her the opportunity to be free of our agreement.”

She shuddered through a long exhalation. “I think that is for the best.”

Chapter 12: An Overdue Discussion

Wednesday, 1 July

Darcy House

Darcy

Aknock sounded upon my study door. “Come in.” I lowered the letter from Mrs. Reynolds, my housekeeper at Pemberley.

My footman Joe entered. “Sir, Mr. Miles Darcy has just returned.”

He is here.“Thank you, Joe.”

With a nod, he departed.

I threw the missive on my desk and strode to my brandy decanter. My hand shook as I poured, and a few drops landed on the tray. I drained the glass in two gulps. The past five days since I had met with Elizabeth had passed in a fog of misery. To stand before her captivating person and render her freedom had required every jot of my fortitude and self-discipline. Afterwards, I had been unequal to facing anyone and spent the next two days in my chambers. For Georgiana’s sake, I emerged on the third day and attended the dinner meal, though I made for paltry company and lacked an appetite.

Thereafter, when not locked in my study, I spent hours fencing, boxing, or riding. The activity provided a temporary distraction from the agony of my heartbreak. Elizabeth’s image continued to haunt me, but I clung to the belief that, if I could be assured of her happiness, I should find a way to be at peace.

I left the study and came upon my brother in the hall. “Welcome home, Miles.” I extended my hand and forced a smile.

“Thank you, Fitzwilliam.” He grinned, gripped my shoulder, and gave my hand a hearty shake. “I am glad to see you.”

“When you are ready, come to my study. I need to speak with you.”

With a slow nod, his expression sobered. “By all means, let us talk now.”

“As you wish.”

In the study, we took seats near the fireplace. Despite having had several days to anticipate this moment, I had not prepared a speech. I followed my first impulse—to clear the air and minimise his unease. “Your letter mentioned news you needed to convey, but I am already aware of what has occurred.”

“You know?” Crinkles fanned out from his eyes. “But how could that be?” His head flexed to the side. “Oh, I see. Miss Bennet must have told you.”

“No, she did not say a word.” I released a long breath. “I spoke to Berkeley the Saturday before last, and he revealed his suspicions to me. At the time, I believed him to be mistaken. But upon my return home, I spoke to Mrs. Annesley. She had observed you…with Miss Bennetin your work-room on that Friday.” I should not need to be any more direct for him to take my meaning. Yet Miles made no movement or gesture to acknowledge the significance of my declaration.He could not be this obtuse.

“Miss Bennet and me.” He scratched the side of his head. “I do not understand. What did Mrs. Annesley profess to have seen?”

Blazes, would he make me utter the words? “You know very well what she saw.”

“No, I cannot imagine what you mean.”

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