Page 84 of Through the Eyes of Love

When Mama returnedto Meryton she actually wrote to Elizabeth that she had told all her friends about how well her two oldest daughters lived and how kindly she was treated by Jane’s noble relations. Her report indicated that Lady Lucas was pea green with envy.

Elizabeth let out a light laugh as she set the missive on her writing desk. She supposed that it was not so bad to be the subject of her mother’s gossip when it involved her own praise. At long last she had her mama’s approbation, but she would need some time to become accustomed to the change! She had already been determined to do better for her children given such a poor example. Besides, she had Fitzwilliam by her side. They were fortunate to have their mutual regard, and it would make for an enchanted future with the family they would make together.

The End…

EPILOGUE

February 1814

London

The Darcys travelled to town to prepare for Georgiana’s first Season. Elizabeth instantly fell in love with Darcy House, and she and her new sister worked with the housekeeper to discuss the updates to the furniture and draperies they wished to make. Both found it quite enjoyable, and if Elizabeth never had to leave her warm and charming house, she would be grateful.

Their first social event in town was a ball in the Darcys’ honour at Matlock House. The new Mrs. Darcy was closely scrutinized by the doyennes of society who were disappointed because as hard as they analysed her every move, they could find no fault. On the contrary, those who were lucky enough to get close to her found her to be witty and charming. Elizabeth wore her face cream every day lest anyone call on her and have reason to ridicule her or Fitzwilliam for his choice of wife. Even though she was initially nervous, she had learned that there was no use in fretting—Fitzwilliam had taught her that her attraction was borne of love and that beauty was inside and out.

* * *

On the nightof Georgiana’s debut ball, Elizabeth was determined to make Darcy House more beautiful than it had ever been. The dream she had long ago came vividly to her mind, so she made certain that fragrant bouquets scented the air and the ballroom glowed from the light of fresh beeswax candles in the sparkling crystal chandeliers.

* * *

After their responsibilitiesat the receiving line were completed, Darcy limped in with his wife and sister on his arms. He guided Georgiana to the dance floor and kissed her hand before Richard joined her for the first dance. Lord Matlock danced with Elizabeth, and Darcy was full of love and pride. Mrs. Darcy was the obvious object of his attention—he followed her with his eyes all night, and each time she returned to his side, he smiled and placed a lingering kiss on her hand. That night, the rumours of his love for his wife were proven true—much to the chagrin of the “jilted”bellesof thetonand their thwarted matchmaking mamas.

All Darcy could think about was the dream he once had about being with his Elizabeth at a ball. Now she stood beside him and looked too tempting in her new gown with the Darcy jewels glittering around her neck. If only he could hold her and kiss her as passionately as he would have liked, but he was forced to control his urges. He was delighted for his sister but would much rather be upstairs with his lovely Elizabeth in his arms. Darcy never doubted his decision to listen to his heart when he chosethe perfect woman for himself. He smiled—tonight, it would be more than a dream!And it was.

* * *

Elizabeth saton the floor of the drawing room and played with her daughter when the butler presented his mistress with a calling card. “Harris, do we know a Mrs. Roberts?”

“Caroline Bingley, as was, madam.”

Her lips pressed into a thin line as her brows dropped. That name was a reminder of an ill-favoured person. “Bingley? Yes, I remember that name—the gentleman who was my sister’s former suitor. Please ask Mrs. Pepper to take Anna back to the nursery before showing the caller in.”

When she was alone, she straightened her skirts and nodded to Harris to open the door to her visitor.

“Mrs. Darcy, how lovely to find you at home. I am Caroline Bingley Roberts—surely your dear husband has spoken often about our very, very close friendship.” A tall, overdressed woman stood before her with several lofty orange feathers sticking out of her hair. Her “assets” were prominently displayed and her neck, wrists, and fingers were layered with expensive-looking jewels.

“Your brother visited us two years ago in Derbyshire and briefly spoke of a sister. My husband has not made me aware that you were his friend.”

“Darcy House has always been one of my favourite homes, next to Pemberley, of course, and my opinion never changed after my many visits.”

“Georgiana and I have made a few changes, but my husband’s mother had excellent taste, and I saw no reason to tamper with perfection.”

“You are obviously not of theton. Allow me to give you a word of advice—home decorationmustchange with the latest trends.”

During the first dinner she and her husband had shared with Mr. Bingley, he had not spoken well of his sister other than to say that prior to the fire, she was determined to be Mrs. Darcy even if it meant forcing Fitzwilliam into an inappropriate situation. “Perhaps people who come from trade are more conscious of trying to please others by following these passing trends. My father’s estate was in Hertfordshire and my mother had excellent taste.”

Before Mrs. Roberts could respond to Elizabeth’s set down, Fitzwilliam put his head into the drawing room but did not see their visitor. “My love, where is Anna? Am I late for our afternoon playtime?” She indicated with her head that someone else was in the room, and his chin went back upon seeing the former Miss Bingley. He hastened towards Elizabeth’s side.

Before he reached her or could speak to her, Caroline stood and latched onto his arm. “My dearest Mr. Darcy, it is so delightful to be back at Darcy House. What a pleasure to meet your new wife. Who, may I ask, is Anna? Surely not Miss De Bourgh.” Perhaps she thought her question was humorous? Elizabeth was not impressed, and had to restrain herself not to huff. In all likelihood, Mr. Roberts had never called his wife “my love.” In the end, Fitzwilliam had made a love match and all Caroline had was a wealthy husband like the rest of the ladies of theton.Now she seemed determined to cosy up with Fitzwilliam, who she probably would have scorned due to his scars and limp.

Fitzwilliam scowled at the woman and held his arm away from his body. “Mrs. Roberts, remove yourself from my person this instant. If you must know, Anna is our daughter.”

Caroline’s lips went into a pout as she acquiesced, but she peered from Fitzwilliam to Elizabeth in a way as if to be plotting something more.

The butler knocked and opened the door. “Lady Matlock to see you, Mr. Darcy, Mrs. Darcy.”

“Pray send her in.”