Page 69 of Through the Eyes of Love

“London? I thought he was planning to visit his relatives in Scarborough.”

“This is very hard for me to discuss, but when Mr. Bingley returned to the inn last night, an express awaited him. I shall not name the parties involved, but the gist of the missive was that a nobleman’s daughter has found herselfenceinteand claimed Mr. Bingley to be the father. Fitzwilliam doubts he would have returned to town if there was no possibility it is true.”

“That cannot be! Why did he say such endearing things to me if he was involved with another woman?” Jane’s hands were shaking and there were tears in her eyes. “They must have cared for each other deeply to create a baby.”

“I fear it is true, dearest. Fitzwilliam told me that in the past that Mr. Bingley frequently thought himself in and out of love but believed his friend had matured enough to act moreresponsibly with young women. After he met you, Fitzwilliam warned him not to toy with your affections. Evidently, this liaison occurred before Mr. Bingley changed his ways.”

“How can I begin to think about this news? I began to open my heart to him—and now this. He was so caring and kind to me. . .” Tears fell from her eyes as she stared at their clasped hands. “I shall never trust another man. I hope you and Darcy have many children so I can be their doting Aunt Jane and spoil them every day.”

“Pray, do not say that. Someday, you will meet a gentleman you can loveandtrust. You deserve someone who will love you as my husband loves me.”

“I should like to return to Stockton Hall now. I need time alone to think about all you have just told me.”

“I shall call for your carriage. Stay here with me while we wait; there is no need to say anything more. Just remember—youwillfind the true love of your life one day.”

* * *

When Fitzwilliam returnedfrom his meeting with Bethel, Elizabeth was distractedly staring out of the window. She attempted to school her features from her anxiety when she greeted him.

“What happened when you told Jane?”

It was no use. Her eyes filled with unshed tears. “It was as bad as I feared. She was incredulous at first, and when she finally believed me, she began to cry. She asked how he could have spoken such endearments to her if he cared so much for another woman. She doubts she can ever trust a man again.” He sighed as he put a hand on her shoulders and rubbed. The sensation did help. He was a good husband.

“Is she resting upstairs?”

“No. She left as soon as her carriage was brought around. I understand her desire to be alone.”

“It may take time, but she will recover from this heartbreak.”

“I hope you are correct—she cannot take another disappointment.” Elizabeth herself had a little bit of a heartbreak on her sister’s behalf. Poor Jane!

* * *

Several weekslater

Darcy received a letter from Charles Bingley and showed Elizabeth who had sent it. He was aware it would not be accepted with happiness, and his feelings were much the same.

“Whatever can he want now?” Elizabeth asked angrily—clearly she had no interest in anything the man who broke her sister’s heart had to say.

After reading the message, he turned to her and ran his hand over his face. “It seems that before the wedding ceremony could take place, his future wife lost the baby, and they were both relieved to part ways. Bingley said he was in love with Jane but promised he will never see her again if that is what she wants. For now, he is in Scarborough and plans to remain there for an indeterminate period of time.”

“I think it best Jane never learn about his message.”

“Yes, I agree.”

CHAPTER 16

February 1813

“Richard, it is so good to see you—tell us everything that has happened since you were last here.” After seeing in the new year with his parents at Oakmont Hall, Richard Fitzwilliam had returned to Pembrook Cottage. He was no longer in uniform and was warmly welcomed by his cousins. Darcy was excited to speak with him.

“After I left you, I travelled to London and sold my commission for more than I expected. I admit it is a relief knowing I shall never again be ordered into combat. I also made a hefty profit on some of those business investments you suggested, Darcy. I have decided to give being an estate owner a try and have been living at Willow Hall for more than a month. I have hired a new steward, and plans are in place to cultivate the land this spring and gradually renovate the house. Is Mrs. Horton still living nearby?”

“Yes, she is at Stockton Hall, but our sister has recently faced a serious disappointment,” Darcy replied.

“Has she been unwell?”

Darcy recounted what happened between Jane and Bingley, and the resulting pain Jane now suffered. He also told Richardof Bingley’s final letter. “My friend is licking his wounds in Scarborough for the foreseeable future.”