Page 119 of The Governess of My Heart
Elizabeth was grateful that he understood her reasoning.
“Oh no! It is already late; I need to head back now,” Elizabeth said, realizing that someone may come looking for her. Darcy still had his arms wrapped around her protectively.
“How long do you want us to keep our engagement a secret? Even though I agreed, I am not happy to part from you.”
“I do not know, maybe a few days. I must leave now; someone may come looking for me,” she said. Finally, aware of her closeness to him, she blushed and tried to move away from Darcy, but he held her firmly.
“How do you expect us to speak in privacy?” he asked.
“I do not know. Maybe I can meet you in the mornings like today.”
Darcy did not reply; he looked at her with adoration, not wanting to part.
“You have become a part of me since the day I met you near the falls. I cannot find words to express the happiness you have brought me by accepting my hand. Please trust me; I will keep you safe and happy forever,” he said affectionately.
She saw his eyes moisten and bravely touched his cheek.
“I love you!” she said with feeling, and Darcy pulled her closer and rested his chin on her head. They felt a sense of tranquility after so many months of torment.
“I cannot wait until tomorrow morning to see you. I will accompany Georgiana today and visit Ashton Park,” Darcy said, soaking himself in her warmth.
Elizabeth smiled, happy at the thought of seeing him again in a few hours.
“I must go,” she said softly.
Darcy reluctantly let go of her. He wanted to take her back on his horse but decided to accompany her to the end of the trail and walk along with his horse.
Elizabeth watched him move away from her and keep his distance as they walked toward the end of the trail.
She smiled and nodded at him.
“Are you certain you do not want me to accompany you to Ashton Park?” he asked, somehow concerned.
“Yes. I know my way back,” she said and left him.
“I will see you soon,” Darcy said, unable to let her out of his sight. He was aware that she was only ten minutes away from Ashton Park, but yet he did not want to let her walk alone.
He rode back to Pemberley with happiness, feeling elated.
Georgiana noticed his broad smile as he entered the breakfast parlor that morning.
“Good morning, brother. You seem in happy spirits,” she said, noticing his smile.
He had to fight hard not to reveal the news to Georgiana.
“I was so happy when you surprised me with your return; now I look forward to the ball,” she said with excitement.
“Georgiana, I suggest we invite the Ashtons and their guests to stay with us before the ball, as it would be convenient for them.”
Georgiana agreed. Meanwhile, Elizabeth reached Ashton Park and hurried to prepare for the day. She could not concentrate on anything, as she was overwhelmed by her meeting with Darcy. Elizabeth could not come to terms with reality, and the fact that Darcy loved her despite everything about her past brought her so much happiness that she could not believe how her life had changed so quickly.
I am engaged!
She could not believe she was engaged to him and was equally worried about how everyone would take the news: the Ashtons, her uncle, and society in general. She was grateful to Darcy for understanding her plight and struggles and her desire to unravel the mystery of her birth. Elizabeth realized the depth of his affection for her and could not forgive herself for the torment she had caused him. She could not believe fate had brought them together through Mary.
I must write to Mary; she must be extremely worried.
However, she hurried downstairs, aware that she was late. Lady Martha noticed the change in her demeanor from the previous day and smiled, unaware of the developments.
