Meanwhile Lord Matlock was pacing the thick carpet in the room he always occupied while staying at Pemberley. He had not bothered to change out of his riding clothes. His carriage with his servants and trunks would be there later in the day. But he was not worried about his things now, because he could not stop thinking of what had just transpired in the kitchen; that young maidcousin, is my SISTER!
Her sister. Elizabeth's sister. Lord Matlock had loved Elizabeth since they had first met at Rosings Park the previous year. He thought her the perfect woman. He was jealous of Darcy, though not dangerously so, he thought no woman would ever amount to Elizabeth in his eyes. He had been infatuated with several women in his thirty-one years, but none matched the quick wit and beautiful eyes of her.
He remembered the girl now; Catherine, the middle Bennet sister. He had danced with her at Darcy and Bingley's wedding celebration. Why had he not recognized her? She was good looking; tall and straight backed, with a pleasant smile. He had to admit he had thoroughly enjoyed the kiss they had shared not moments ago, although he thought he had been kissing a young maid at the time. A fun little dalliance to entertain him while at Pemberley. But now he knew, his life had just taken a complete turn.
It was then that Darcy walked into the room. Lord Matlock stopped pacing and looked up. He could see by his cousin's face that Elizabeth had given him her account of the morning's activities.
"Cousin," Darcy began calmly while skipping any effort at pleasantries and getting right to the point, "Elizabeth has told me what she saw this morning. I'd like to hear your side of the story."
Lord Matlock mirrored Darcy's calm manner and responded, "Not much to tell Darcy. I thought a flirty maid and I were having some fun. But I've been turning it over in my mind, and I see the insult I've made to you and your wonderful wife's family. I see my impropriety and I will make it right. I will propose immediately."
Inwardly Darcy celebrated. He had been worried that his cousin may put up a fight, or even try to deny his actions. Outwardly he remained cool and responded, "You'll be marrying one of the silliest girls in England. She is certainly not fit to be a Countess."
"I'm sure you married the only Miss Bennet fit to be a Countess, Darcy. And although I conceded that day at Rosings when you let your intentions for Elizabeth be known to me, I must say I have envied you in that regard ever since."
"This again Fitzwilliam? As the younger son you couldn't have afforded to marry her anyway, you know that as well as I." Darcy regretted his words as soon they were spoken. His reference to Lord Matlock being the younger son still pushed on the grief of both gentlemen.
"But now I am the Earl, and may marry whoever I like," Lord Matlock responded sardonically, "And since you married the most wonderful woman in England, I have no preference on the matter. I made my bed this morning, and I will lay in it. With," he added, "'the silliest girl in England'."