Prologue – Herefordshire Nov 1798
The weather turned cold as the carriage rocked its way towards Town. The hope of an extended autumn drifted away with each gale of biting wind. This change did not affect Darcy; in fact, he felt that this was more fitting given that all hope of future happiness was gone from his life. A future devoid of love…how can he bear to live without her?
Chapter 1 – London, Darcy House, August 1798
Darcy sat in his study with a distant look upon his face. What could be done to assist Georgiana? Her spirits had been down since her return and, although he would attempt to draw her out with a night at the theatre or a day filled with shopping, she inevitably slipped back into her shell. It was as though a shadow had been cast over her that could not be shaken. Even now, as she sat in the drawing room with Caroline Bingley, barely a smile could be seen. Darcy felt that Caroline, with her strong personality and knowledge of the Ton, might help provide Georgiana with a bit of confidence. Unfortunately, Georgiana seemed to sink under the weight of her insecurities whenever her friends came to call. Perhaps Richard would be able to provide some suggestions? As Georgiana's co-guardian, Richard loved her completely and would want to know if she was making progress after the disaster at Ramsgate. Yes, he would write a letter to Richard and explain the situation and ask for advice.
Darcy was interrupted from completing his letter by an insistent knock upon his study door.
"Enter", he said and immediately his housekeeper stepped in to explain that the groundskeeper had completed the additions to the courtyard. The new fountain had been delivered and the delivery company was waiting for Darcy's approval before leaving. Darcy left at once; the abandoned letter could be completed when he returned.
Georgiana was going to be sick. Although she appreciated the effort that Caroline put forth to further their friendship, the tall opinionated redhead terrified her. Was no one safe from her censure? Caroline covered any and all gossip she acquired since their last meeting within the first 15 minutes of calling. The remaining time was spent giving her own insights and opinions on each juicy morsel of gossip. The poor creatures being discussed were more often than not supposed 'friends' of Caroline's. Georgiana was not so naïve as to believe that she would be excluded from Caroline's discussion on her next call. With every nasty comment that Caroline made regarding someone's small lapse of judgment or even silly action, Georgiana could not help but feel the weight of her own downfall. How lucky she was that her dear brother arrived in time! She must be even more aware of her conduct now to do nothing further that might bring shame upon her family name. What would become of Fitzwilliam if her downfall were discovered? This thought brought her back to the present conversation and the expectant look upon Caroline's face.
'Well, Georgiana dear, what did you think?'
'Oh, I beg your pardon Miss Bingley, could you repeat your question?'
'Of course, I was just asking your thoughts on the book that I loaned you.'
'Ah yes, I found it quite enjoyable. In fact, I am ready to return it to you now. I believe it is either in my bedchamber or the study. If you would excuse me a moment, I will check my room for it now. Unfortunately, my brother is working in the study and I would rather not interrupt him at this time. Pardon me.'
Ah, so Mr. Darcy is hard at work in the study? Caroline thought. This is the perfect opportunity to see him again. Certainly he would welcome the distraction of a beautiful woman. She had been working towards one goal since she met the illustrious master of Pemberly 10 years ago…to become his wife. Given the friendship between her brother Charles and Mr. Darcy, they were already thrown into each other's company continually. He was a single gentleman of wealth and she was a single woman with a large dowry. What was he waiting for?
Caroline approached the study with a smile gracing her face. After a tentative unanswered knock upon the door, she slipped quietly into the room. It was empty. What a wasted opportunity! She turned a critical eye to survey the room. There would be a great many changes made to the house when she was its mistress. As she strolled past the desk, an open letter caught her eye. Hmmm, it doesn't appear to be a letter of business. A quick glance couldn't hurt and might provide some information to further ingratiate herself with the writer. However, as she perused this private missile, a look of shock crossed her face. What! Ramsgate debacle…Georgiana…Wickham…elopement! As she processed what she just read, Caroline realized that this information would prove not just helpful but the key to obtaining her long-awaited prize! The smile that she wore as she returned to the drawing room was one of pure victory. Her only thought was 'He will be mine.'