Page 77 of The Governess of My Heart
“You still …you still wish to be friends with me?”
“Of course I have, sis...” She corrected herself.
“I have been acquainted with many young women of your age. Your feelings are not uncommon, and sadly, someone tried to cheat you in the name of love. I admire your courage in this matter, as you told your brother of your intended elopementonce you saw him, which speaks volumes of your love for him. I am certain he is not angry at you.”
A wave of relief hit Georgiana, and she smiled weakly.
“I cannot forgive myself. Even though my brother declared he did not hold it against me, I feel guilty whenever I think of Ramsgate. But now I feel something is amiss; he hasn't spoken properly for the past week and avoids spending time with me. I am worried.”
“Maybe it's not something related to you. He could be stressed about business. Please do not assume things, Miss Darcy. If he does not want to go on the morning ride with you, think about something else you can do together.”
“We used to read together, play chess, and sometimes even go for a picnic. But now, I do not know how to ask him why he is so distant.”
Elizabeth was silent.
“Sometimes I want to say so many things to him, open my heart, and pour out my feelings. He is more like a father to me than a brother. But my guilt stops me from expressing myself. I could use your advice; please help me. What should I say to him, Miss Smith? How can I ask him whether he is upset with me.”
“I am honored that you trust me as a friend and confidant. But it would not be fair for me to guide you in this matter. I can see how much he cares for you, and it would break his heart to know that his sister hesitates to talk to him and asks her friend for advice. I respect him and cannot say anything in this matter.”
“But I do not have anyone like you to discuss my feelings.”
“I understand. But this is between you and your brother. Please talk to him without hesitation. Your bond takes precedence over our friendship, and I cannot take the liberty of guiding you in this. But I can say for certain that I do not think your brother holds the past against you.”
“I definitely will. I feel a lot better after talking to you today.”
Elizabeth smiled and felt happy that Georgiana trusted her.
She was glad that Georgiana was safe after the ordeal and could not help but pity Darcy.
It must have broken his heart to see his sister betrayed thus.
Georgiana left Ashton Park with resolve, and once she reached Pemberley, she waited for Darcy in the study.
Darcy had been in a state of agony since the dance with Elizabeth the previous week, and her words tortured him day and night.
Why does she hate me so? I never imagined she saw me in such a poor light. Does she even have the slightest idea of my feelings for her? How could she not? Even if I try to, I cannot betray my feelings when I am with her.
He avoided going to Ashton Park due to his temperament and avoided Georgiana's company without thought. He never realized that his sister was confused and distressed about his behavior.
He was surprised to see Georgiana waiting for him in his study after her visit.
“Georgiana, what is it? I thought you planned to stay longer in Ashton Park today.”
“I did. But I returned, as … as I need to speak with you.”
“Is something wrong?” he asked with anxiety.
“I do not know how to ask you. But I have to. Is George Wickham causing any trouble again?” she asked, gathering courage.
When Wickham was mentioned, Darcy's face reddened, as it was the first time she had mentioned his name since his return.
He immediately walked up to his sister and held her hands.
“What happened? Did he contact you? Tell me, Georgi. I will not spare him.”
“No, he did not.”
“Then why do you even think he is causing trouble?”
