5. Chapter Four

Chapter Four

If Elizabeth had not previously guessed from Miss Darcy’s wardrobe that she was wealthy, walking into her London home would have certainly informed her. With every glance, she saw elegance and carefully restrained opulence. Beautiful rugs dotted the well-polished floors, while ornate vases were full of fresh, hothouse flowers. She saw at least one painting that was done by a well-known artist.

Having an uncle involved in the importing business, Elizabeth had the opportunity to regularly explore his warehouses. Not only did she appreciate the fine craftsmanship held within Miss Darcy’s home, but she also had a good sense of the likely price for such unique items. To support such an expense, Miss Darcy’s home estate, at the very least, had to be two to three times larger than Longbourn.

This all fled her mind when Miss Darcy approached her and clutched her hands in greeting. Returning the greeting, she said, “And I am so happy to have been invited into your splendid home.”

Gesturing to the pleasingly arranged settee and chairs, Miss Darcy exclaimed, “Please sit down and I will ring for tea.”

Elizabeth noticed the precision in Miss Darcy’s speech and gestures and realized that she must be struggling with a certain amount of nervousness. This prompted Elizabeth to try to make her feel at ease. Taking a seat on the settee, Elizabeth said, “I am uncertain if you changed anything for my visit, but I cannot help but compliment it all.” Smiling, she gestured at the flower arrangement. “I have always been excessively fond of displays of fresh flowers. Did you arrange them yourself?”

Blushing as she sat, Georgianna answered, “Yes, I did. I have long been fond of flower arranging. There are so many fresh flowers available from the gardens at Pemberley that when I am at home in the country, I have a lot to work with. I hoped you might appreciate the fresh blooms. How is your family? I know last we spoke you said that your aunt had been feeling unwell?”

Pleased that Miss Darcy would remember her comment about her aunt, Elizabeth explained, “Aunt Madeline is doing better this morning. She is having more good days than bad at this point, which I am glad for. She had been doing so poorly that I was worried she would still be unwell when I had to return home.”

With a frown, Miss Darcy asked, “When do you suppose you might be returning home?”

Elizabeth was about to answer when the maid brought in the tea, accompanied by a tray of various delicious-looking cakes and finger sandwiches. It took a moment for Miss Darcy to pour the tea and see to everyone getting a bite to eat before Elizabeth responded, “Sadly, I will go home before the end of the month. Despite my usual aversion to staying in London during the summer, I couldn’t refuse my aunt’s plea for help when she fell ill during her confinement. I was needed to step in and take care of the household and help with the children. But she is doing better and with the time for harvest approaching, I would like to be home to help with everything.” Taking a sip of her tea, she suppressed a shudder as she considered what Lydia and Kitty might be getting into without her there to help supervise.

Seeing Georgianna’s genuine interest as she sat patiently next to her, Elizabeth decided to confide in her and share her concerns. Giving a wry smile, she added, “Besides, I am afraid of what trouble my younger sisters are getting into while I am away. My older sister Jane is a good role model, but she is not always stern enough to keep them in line.”

Mrs. Annesley set her cup down in its saucer on one of the conveniently placed tables before saying, “It seems as if you have a life full of responsibility for one of your age, Miss Bennet. It is something to be admired. Though I wonder how you are able to maintain such a positive viewpoint through it all. I have known many who have taken up responsibility at a young age who have allowed it to affect them adversely.”

Tilting her head, Elizabeth considered the companion’s words. She supposed that with all she did, she could become weighed down. In fact, she often was if she could not get out and walk for an extended period of time. What was it that gave her the ability to see the bright side? She had never really thought about it before. Covering her hesitation with another sip of her tea, Elizabeth said, “I have always been especially fond of nature, and I often go for daily walks, especially when I am home at Longbourn. There is just something about seeing the sunrise paint the morning mist in a golden glow or watching a swirl of scarlet leaves propelled by the breeze that lifts my spirits. When things like that exist in the world, it’s as if all the bad things, or the heavy things that I must deal with, suddenly don’t seem so terrible. More than that, though, I also try to only look at the past as long as it brings me pleasure in remembering it.”

Sighing, Miss Darcy said, “That is a lovely sentiment. One I wish I had, actually. I must admit that I struggle sometimes with past choices and things that had not gone as I had hoped.”

With a warm smile, Elizabeth tried to reassure Miss Darcy by reminding her, “You need to keep in mind that I have a good four years of life experience on you. When I was sixteen, I was often weepy and out of sorts. You would not recognize me as the girl I was before.” Watching Miss Darcy’s mouth drop open into a little O, Elizabeth continued, “Give it time and you will find that you have gained strength from your experiences. If it helps, I think you are building on a good foundation.”

Reaching out, Georgianna clasped one of Elizabeth’s hands with her own. “Thank you for being so willing to visit me. I understand I may not have much to offer in terms of friendship, as I am just a silly girl, but your willingness to spend time with me despite your many responsibilities is something I am truly grateful for.”

Carefully setting down her teacup in its saucer on the nearby table, Elizabeth focused her attention on Miss Darcy. She had spent enough time with her sisters to know that there was something weighing on her behind her words. It was as if Miss Darcy did not see her own value and Elizabeth was determined to help her recognize it.

Miss Bennet looked Georgianna straight in the eye and she wondered what Miss Bennet could intend with such seriousness. “It is not a chore to spend time with and get to know someone as pleasant as yourself. You do yourself a disservice in thinking that it might be so. I would call myself honored to have a friend such as yourself.” With a tilt of her head and a discerning glance, she continued, “I am certainly gladdened that any small attentions I have paid you might have helped you, though.”

Georgianna blinked away tears. For so long, she had believed Wickham when he had told her that no one would ever want her just for herself. Georgianna now knew he was a womanizer, gambler, spendthrift, and a liar, but still she had believed him when he had said she was unlovable. Why had she been so foolish to believe him?

In an instant, Miss Bennet closed the gap between herself and Georgianna, her hands reaching out and her voice filled with regret. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to say anything to upset you.”

Offering a tremulous smile, Georgianna tried to reassure her by saying, “No, it was nothing you said. I was simply reminded of something someone said to me not that long ago.”

Miss Bennet wrapped her arms around Georgianna’s shoulder, offering a comforting embrace. “What could they have possibly said to bring you to tears?” she asked, her voice filled with concern.

Georgianna whispered, “When I refused to elope with him, he told me I would never—could never—be loved or even liked for who I was. That I would only ever be tolerated for my connections and wealth.”

“Well, whoever said that was most likely a bitter fool trying to hurt you. You would do well to ignore their words, though I can imagine it will be difficult. I struggle with dealing with unkind words myself.” Miss Bennet squeezed Georgianna’s shoulder for a moment before saying, “Whatever he said, I want to make it clear that my motivation to be your friend is purely based on sincerely liking you and the enjoyment we find in each other’s presence, with no ulterior motives.”

Georgianna leaned back somewhat so that she could face Miss Bennet. “Are you sure you do not want to know more about what happened? I mean, most proper young ladies would never have even considered eloping.”

Tilting her head, Miss Bennet said, “Only if you want to. Your happiness is the only thing I care about, so unless it’s related to that, I am unconcerned about your past. Obviously, if you need a shoulder to lean on in order to unburden yourself, I am here. But remember what I said before—it is my philosophy to try to only look at the past as long as it brings pleasure to me in remembering it. You may not remember the villain with much pleasure, but you can be happy that you have learned from the situation.”

When Georgianna looked at Miss Bennet, she knew her face could not help but show her confusion. What had she learned from the situation besides grief and humiliation? As if noticing her confusion, Miss Bennet asked, “Would you ever consider eloping again?”

“Of course not!” exclaimed Georgianna.

Smiling ever so softly, Miss Bennet prompted, “Why?”

Georgianna pondered for a moment, glad that Miss Bennet seemed willing to wait while she thought. What had she learned from the disaster earlier in the summer? “If a gentleman respects me, he will seek my brother’s permission to court me. If he does not, then I know he has less than honorable intentions.” She saw Miss Bennet and Mrs. Annesley both nod at her comment. It only took another few moments of contemplation before she added, “I now know that a man’s worth extends far beyond a handsome face and empty flattery.”

Mrs. Annesley commented, “That is a hard thing for most young ladies to learn. Good looks and a gentlemanly demeanor can mask a hidden, villainous side. It is very easy for heads to be turned by flattery. It is always nice to think a handsome gentleman thinks well of you, but we all must stop and question why he is saying such things.”

“I have had little experience with compliments from anyone, let alone handsome gentlemen, but what you say, Mrs. Annesley, makes sense,” commented Miss Bennet with a nod.

“Yes, Mrs. Annesley, I am very grateful for your sound advice as well.” Pausing, Georgianna admitted, “Though I have decided that I am not yet ready to take on the responsibilities of marriage. Most importantly, I need to trust my instincts and ask someone I trust if I am uncertain about my course of action.”

Swallowing after taking a bite of the little cake, Miss Bennet said, “I think that is a good choice, Miss Darcy.”

After a moment of hesitation, Georgianna said, “I would love for you to call me Georgianna, or even Georgie, Miss Bennet.”

Smiling, Miss Bennet said, “I would be more than happy to call you Georgie, but only as long as you remember to call me Lizzie and let go of all of your worries about that villain.”

“Then I will endeavor to forget that villain’s words and be determined to be the best of friends with you, Lizzie.” Georgianna was so glad that Lizzie was proving such a true friend. She had even brought up her greatest mistake, and it had not changed Lizzie’s view of her in the least.

Enveloping Georgianna in a warm hug, Lizzie said, “And I will be the best of friends with you, Georgie.” After a moment, she leaned back and asked, “Now what say you we come up with a plan to go shopping together before I have to leave in two weeks?”

“Does that mean we will go to Hatchards?” Georgianna asked with a giggle.

“Well, perhaps we can go to several stores you like with a trip to Hatchards somewhere in the middle and end with a visit to a tea shop?” Lizzie commented with a snicker.

Turning to Mrs. Annesley, Georgianna inquired, “What say you? Do you think we can fit in two shopping trips before Lizzie has to leave?”

Elizabeth was relieved that she had maintained her cheerful demeanor until her uncle’s carriage arrived. It had not been easy with her anger simmering just beneath the surface. Now she collapsed back into the seat of the carriage despite the concerned look Annie was giving her. Her mind was just too overwhelmed to maintain a facade.

Annie pressed her lips together for a moment before asking, “Are you well, Miss Bennet?” Like a good maid, Annie had been in the room when she had been talking with Georgianna and Mrs. Annesley. She had been sitting in the corner working on some sewing, close enough to watch but not near enough to overhear, so Elizabeth did not need to worry that she had overheard anything. She did, however, did not want to worry the girl.

Sighing, Elizabeth sat up straight before answering, “Yes, Annie, thank you for asking. I only just remembered something that is disturbing, but I am fine.” Resisting the urge to rub her forehead, Elizabeth smiled at Annie. She needed a brisk walk to Oakham Mount, but she would not get it.

“That is good, miss,” Annie replied with a nod, though Elizabeth suspected she was still worried.

Aware of Annie’s quiet presence, Elizabeth tried to maintain at least a level of composure despite the way her mind was spinning. All she could think about was how some villain had tried to prey on poor Georgianna. It was obvious that she would possess a sizable dowry, and with Georgianna’s status and beauty, she would be a remarkable lure to fortune hunters. That alone would be enough for any girl to deal with once she came out, but whoever it was had not even waited for her to reach her majority or to have her bow before the queen. She was practically still a child.

Sometimes she doubted men had any redeeming qualities. Of course, she knew that there were sterling examples of the species like her uncle, but there were so many others that fell short. Somewhere out there in the world was a man who had used all his appearance of good to hide his evil intent. Not only had the man tried to persuade a girl who was practically a child to leave her family and elope, but when he had failed, he had lashed out in an attempt to crush her spirit. Elizabeth may not have been there, but she was clever enough to understand why he would tell her she would never be loved for herself. The villain had wanted revenge for his failure.

Georgianna would not have been moved if the man had shown his true colors, so it was fair to assume that he had courted her most assiduously. The comment about Mrs. Annesley having been with her only for a few months made more sense now, as Georgianna’s previous companion had been let go. The woman had obviously been a poor example of a companion if she had allowed anyone to woo such a young girl who was not even out.

If even a wealthy girl like Georgianna was such an easy target, despite having a companion, an older brother, and an uncle who was an earl, what chance did she or her sisters stand? The best description she could come up with for her father would be idle. He was also negligent and sarcastic, but besides that, he would never put forth the effort to protect and shepherd his five girls. Protecting his daughters would never take precedence over his books. Elizabeth didn’t hold out hope that her father would make any effort to investigate potential suitors for her or her sisters. Frequently, she had overheard her father expressing his wish for a quiet life and complaining that it would only be possible if her mother could find unsuspecting men to foist his daughters on.

Somehow, she had always known she could only depend on herself when it came to finding a husband. It was one reason she would jokingly say she was going to end up a spinster. It had always seemed that the worst that would come from her father’s inattention was a life without a husband and children. Now that she saw the danger that was truly before them, she wondered how she could ever possibly protect herself and her sisters. Broken hearts and betrayal were just the beginning. If a scoundrel would try to run away with an heiress, what would they do to a dowerless nobody?

She wanted to declare confidently that she would be impervious to the advances of a scoundrel, but doubt had crept in. She would never agree to an elopement because she knew the consequences her family would face because of such an action. Despite this, Elizabeth was concerned that without the knowledge gained from her meeting with Georgianna, the sweet words of flattery could have easily influenced her to lose her heart.

She was often overlooked at home, and it was no better away from home. The young men of Meryton would dance with her, but mostly she was just Jane’s younger sister. It did not help that she was better read and unwilling to back down when someone else was wrong. She had heard, “You are just a girl and cannot possibly know of what you speak” more than a few times. For all her knowledge and competence in running a household or an estate, it scared Elizabeth to wonder what would happen if someone arrived in town and paid her kind attention.

Pulling a deep breath into her lungs through her nose, Elizabeth held it there for a few moments before releasing it in a long steady stream through pursed lips. Fretting was doing nothing. Squaring her shoulders, she muttered, “Praemonitus, praemunitus.” When she was twelve, she had read it while her father was teaching her Latin, and it had long stayed with her. Praemonitus, praemunitus loosely translated meant forewarned is forearmed. Her father had been more than happy to discuss the phrase with her, but ever the intellectual, he had no care to apply his learning to his own behavior. Elizabeth, however, thought it might be time to apply it to her life.