Notes: Many thanks to my wonderful beta reader and co-author Sam. H.
PPP
The next morning Georgiana could not contain her excitement when her brother joined her at breakfast. "How was the ball, Brother?"
"It was fine, nothing out of the ordinary." Darcy frowned, "But there were many who did not show."
"Why not?"
"Because Sir Frederick, a member of high society, was murdered in Cheapside. The reason for his death is as yet unknown. But several families were too scared to leave their respective homes."
Georgiana's eyes widened in shock, "In Cheapside? Near the Gardiner's home?"
"Yes, quite near to the Gardiner's." Darcy turned to face his sister, "I must insist you do not go to visit Miss Bennet. There is a good chance the motive for Sir Frederick's murder was robbery."
Georgiana's body slumped a little, in a small voice she inquired, "Shall I write a note to Miss Bennet, apologising for cancelling our tea today?"
Darcy frowned his brow, "Why do you ask that?"
With her gaze fixed on the floor, Georgiana hesitantly replied, "Because I am unsure if you still approve of my friendship with Miss Bennet."
"Pray look at me Georgie," Darcy said softly. "Of course, you may continue your friendship with Miss Bennet if you wish to, but you cannot visit her at the Gardiner's house at this time."
Georgiana's face lit up, "Thank you, Brother!" she said. "I do so like Miss Bennet. It is the first time I have a friend my age and I enjoy spending time with her."
The siblings chatted through breakfast until Darcy retired to his study, where he had several business letters to deal with.
PPP
On hearing of Sir Frederick's murder, Elizabeth could not help but think of Jane, Mr. Bingley, and his sister Caroline.
Her uncle had strictly prohibited any of the household from going to the park until the motive for the murder was investigated.
Elizabeth had her suspicions about why someone would want Sir Frederick dead, but she kept it to herself. The man had hurt and ruined many young women and their families. It would not surprise her if the killer's motive had been revenge, pure and simple.
The Gardiner's household was not receiving visitors that morning, and her cousins were studying their lessons, so Elizabeth took the opportunity to sit down and write to her dear sister Jane and her mother.
Writing to Jane, it occurred to Elizabeth, that her family would soon be putting off their mourning. Such a year it has been, working hard to make sure Longbourn prospered for her brother. Being so busy almost buffered the pain of loss she felt from her father's absence. Still, all the changes had made her stronger and she could almost think of her dear Papa now without tears rising unbidden in her eyes.
Mrs. Bennet had urged her to stay in London for the winter, but Elizabeth decided to return to Longbourn before Christmas; she wanted to be in the company of her family and share in their grief and joy.
She was also aware of her mother's fears concerning society. Without her father's calming presence, those fears would spill over onto Kitty and Lydia, keeping perhaps too tight a hold on them. With Kitty having turned 18, it was time for her to take her place in society. Every year Meryton held a grand assembly in celebration of the New Year, and Elizabeth was certain Kitty would be eager to attend, and perhaps Lydia too.
Despite her concerns for the future, Elizabeth remained optimistic, determined to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
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Mrs. Gardiner and Elizabeth arrived at Darcy's house for tea with Georgiana and were greeted very warmly by her and Mrs. Annesley. Mr. Darcy was from home at a business meeting, but he would soon be back in time to join them for tea.
After exchanging pleasantries, Elizabeth and Georgiana decided to try playing a duet. They chose a piece from Mozart's Marriage of Figaro, one of Georgiana's favourite compositions.
They were in the middle of their practice when Darcy arrived with Sir Richard. Upon entering the room, Darcy could not keep his eyes from fastening on Elizabeth. She radiated joy, and he was pleased to see his sister's happy expression as well.
When the performance ended, Darcy and Sir Richard showed their appreciation by applauding with enthusiasm. Darcy then introduced his cousin to Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner.
The group moved to the family drawing room for tea and lively conversation. The next hour was filled with discussions of their favourite compositors, books, and attractions in London.
Richard was impressed by Miss Bennet's sharp wit and charming personality. Her extensive knowledge and love for reading only added to her appeal. He noticed his cousin's gaze kept returning to the pretty young lady, a hint of a smile flickering on his face. Georgiana was practically giddy with her new friend and seemed to have lost some of her shyness.
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Lying in bed that night Darcy's thoughts were all of Elizabeth Bennet. He was enchanted by her, but also confused about his feelings. She was unique, and he anticipated their paths would cross the next time. It was undeniable he enjoyed her company and greatly admired almost everything about her. With Bingley no longer interested, there was nothing in his way should he decide to court her.
However, before he could make that decision, a few crucial questions required honest answers. She was from a minor gentry of a small estate, with connections to trade and little fortune - Did he truly want to court Elizabeth? He grew up with the surety of wedding a daughter of the Ton, titled or not. Did the value of a loving wife, home and family outweigh his, and society's expectations?
The financial aspect must also be considered. While he had an annual income of over ten thousand a year, in marrying Elizabeth, a large sum of money would need to be settled on her. Could Pemberley's coffers withstand that burden?
His family may also present a serious problem. The Matlocks expected him to marry someone from the Ton, especially if marrying her assisted with his uncle's political manoeuvrings. That path was never one Darcy wanted to go down. Witnessing Lord Matlock's unhappy marriage, marked by his affair with a long-term mistress, made Darcy wary of agreeing to any of Lord Matlock's suggestions over the years. Darcy's concept of happiness included a faithful wife, not a mistress or string of them.
When Darcy greeted the early morning sun the next day his mind was still full of questions, but he also had the conviction of seeking answers, so he could reach a decision regarding Miss Elizabeth Bennet.