Dearest readers,
I apologize for such a long gap between updates. I was completely caught up between getting my first story published and a relocation as well. "Never Say Never at Netherfield" is on Kindle now. I thank all your support for the story on fanfiction, please do read it on Amazon Kindle, if interested.
As for this one, I am working on the other chapters and you can expect a lot of plot reveals soon. I thank you for all the support and keep the reviews coming. Stay safe!
Note: Lord Frances is changed to Mr. Frances Anderson
Chapter 32: New arrivals
"So, you say, the second daughter disappeared and no one knows where she is?"
"I believe so, sir. According to their parents, she ran away to live with her aunt and uncle in town," his valet said, inwardly surprised by his master's interest in the matter. "The servants here are mostly new and unaware of the details. Mr. Bingley has brought them from town. But the housekeeper may know the exact details."
Darcy nodded. He did not want his valet to question people about the Bennet family. But he was piqued by what the mystery could be. His thoughts circled around Mary. He didn't have a decent opinion of the Bennets, except for her. There was something sincere in her demeanor. He wanted to know how Mr. Collins was related to the Bennets. He asked his valet to enquire about the same.
His valet got the information from some villagers, and Darcy learned about the entailment.
"Most people say Mr. Collins visited Hertfordshire to see the Longbourn estate because of the entailment. They say there was some disagreement between Mr. Bennet and him, and he left in anger. It seems the daughter disappeared the same day he left the estate."
Darcy was extremely puzzled by the matter. He knew enough of Mr. Collins during his visits to Rosings to understand the man lacked sense.His aunt had written to him in detail about his wife's death in Kent as well. He wondered if Mr. Bingley knew anything about the Bennets and their missing daughter.
All families have some secret. He thought about Georgiana's near elopement in Ramsgate.
He realized Mr. Bingley was not in danger of marrying Jane. He was somehow grateful that Jane chose to divert her interest towards himself so that his friend could see her true colors.
He received Georgiana's letter, pressing him to return before the harvest ball. Darcy knew he had to go back to Derbyshire soon.
He was aware that Elizabeth would return to Ashton Park as well. He struggled at the thought of seeing her again. He was not confident of his actions in her company. Every day, he was torn between the need to see her and fought against the same.
Could my feelings truly be so one-sided? How could I feel so much for her if she hated me? Does she truly hate me? I have seen something in her eyes that proves otherwise. He could not forget the look on her face when he saw her the last time. The tears in her eyes, disguised by anger, were those of struggle. The pain in her voice was engulfed with guilt.
He knew she would never be comfortable being in the same room as him.
What if I go back and she leaves Ashton Park because of me?
He was well aware of her stubbornness and willpower. She could easily quit employment and leave.
She is at least safe there, I will ruin her life if I go back. Elizabeth will never be my wife. If I return to Pemberley, she may not be Georgiana's friend as well. He thought and decided it was best to be absent for the ball.
He wrote back to Georgiana about his decision. He did not want to go. He was guilty of forsaking Georgiana. But he was left with no other choice.
He wrote to the housekeeper to make arrangements. He knew Mrs. Reynolds would not be pleased with the news.
At Grovnor Park, Elizabeth prepared for her return. She was happy about returning to Ashton Park, but the prospect of meeting Darcy again distressed her. She could not forgive herself for the suffering she had caused him. From Georgiana's letters, she understood that he had not returned yet. She was uncertain of what was in store for her.
A week passed, and they left for Ashton Park. Lady Isabella's parents accompanied them. Elizabeth was still suspicious of Lady Isabella after overhearing the conversation between mother and daughter she was certain she needed money to pay someone. The children were excited to return to Ashton Park and meet their grandmother. Mr. Anderson was still staying there. Elizabeth knew life would go back to the routine. But when she reached Ashton Park a few days later, she was in for a surprise. There were new additions to the estate. It was none other than Lady Martha's elder brother and his family.
The journey from Grovnor Park had been uneventful, and they arrived in the early hours. The household was still asleep except for Lady Martha. She welcomed them with warmth. The children were joyous to see their grandmother.
"This is a surprise indeed. Why did you not mention Uncle's visit in your letters?" Lord Philip asked in surprise once he became aware of the guests.
"He wanted it to be a surprise. They have been here only for a week. Your uncle is looking forward to making your acquaintance," she said, looking at her daughter-in-law.
Lord Philip and Lady Isabella headed straight to their rooms to change. Elizabeth understood that it was Lady Isabella's first meeting with the guests.
"I am glad to have you all back home, my dear," Lady Martha said to Elizabeth with warmth.
"Do not press yourself to join us for breakfast if you want to rest."
"I am not tired, Madam. Unless you want it to be a family affair," Elizabeth replied.
"Even if it is a family affair, you will be a part of it. My brother is eager to make your acquaintance."
Elizabeth agreed to join them and headed to her room. She felt a familiar sense of safety as she stepped inside. Elizabeth wondered why she felt such a belonging at Ashton Park and understood it was not just because of Lady Martha. To her, it was also because of Darcy. The very thought of his presence in Pemberley had given her comfort. Even before she realized her love for him, she felt a sense of comfort and protection in his company.
In her heart, she knew his love was true. He did not care about her status and Elizabeth was certain he would not forsake her, because of her past.
Whatever I did was to protect him. I must accept that.
She quickly changed and headed to the breakfast parlour anticipating the introduction of Lady Martha's relations. She encountered Mr. Anderson in the hallway.
"I am happy to see you again, Miss Smith," he said in a happy tone.
"I am delighted to be back as well, sir. The children have missed your company," she said with a smile.
They walked into the breakfast parlour. Lady Martha sat with an older gentleman, and Elizabeth assumed it to be her brother.
"Ah! There she is. Mark, meet Miss Elizabeth Smith. She has been a delightful addition to Ashton Park. The children love her. Miss Smith, allow me to introduce you to my eldest brother, Lord Mark Anderson."
Elizabeth curtsied and noticed the gentleman observing her keenly.
"I am happy to make your acquaintance," he said in a deep voice. Elizabeth immediately noticed that his demeanor was not the same as his sister. He seemed serious and had a scrutinizing look.
Lord Philip and Lady Isabella joined them, along with Lady Isabella's parents. Once the introductions were made, Lady Isabella tried to converse amiably with her husband's uncle, to form a good impression. Elizabeth was curious to meet the rest of the family.
"I am glad you are here. We hope you can stay until Christmas," Lord Philip said to his uncle.
"That might not be possible. We plan to leave in six weeks."
"I will be returning along with them," Mr. Anderson said. Elizabeth noticed Lord Anderson's gaze fixed on her. She was tempted to raise her eyebrow in response. To her, he seemed a stark contrast to his siblings.
"Now, where is my cousin?" Lord Philip asked. Just then, entered Lord Anderson's wife and daughter. Lady Martha made the introductions between them and her daughter-in-law.
Lady Augusta was a lean, tall woman with sharp features. Her daughter resembled her, and she was almost the same age as Elizabeth. Elizabeth immediately noticed their hostility towards her. They seemed to be surprised that the governess was joining them for breakfast. They sat down to eat, and Elizabeth sat opposite Lord Anderson.
"Are the children awake? Will they join us?" Lord Anderson asked Lady Isabella.
"Yes, they are and should join us soon," she replied confidently.
Lady Martha looked at her daughter-in-law with doubt.
"Is that so, Miss Smith?" she asked, well aware that the children were sleeping and would not join them for breakfast. Elizabeth did not know how to reply. She knew that Lady Martha was taunting her daughter-in-law, as she never involved herself with the children's welfare or needs.
Elizabeth saw the distress and embarrassment on Lady Isabella's face.
"Oh! Yes. They should be joining us soon unless Mrs. Davidson feels they could benefit from a quick nap," she replied, fully aware that they were sound asleep.
Lady Martha smiled at Elizabeth. You amaze me, Elizabeth.
Lady Isabella realized how Elizabeth had saved her from embarrassment without revealing that the children were fast asleep. Her mother-in-law often belittled her for not devoting time to the children. She looked at Elizabeth and smiled gratefully. Elizabeth was shocked to see such a reaction from her.
"We are elated to meet you during this visit, Lord Anderson. It is such a wonderful surprise indeed," Lady Isabella's father exclaimed.
"The pleasure is mine," he replied without emotion. Conversation circled around Pemberley, and Lady Augusta expressed her displeasure about the absence of Darcy.
"It is indeed disappointing not to see Mr. Darcy this time. Did Miss Darcy mention anything about his return?" he asked her daughter.
"Miss Darcy informed me that he might not be present for the harvest ball," Miss Anderson replied, her face lighting up with the mention of Darcy. Elizabeth noticed it. After breakfast, the women sat at the parlour. Elizabeth immediately noticed Lady Augusta's scowl, seeing Elizabeth accompany them. Her daughter's face revealed the same emotion.
Elizabeth felt uncomfortable invading their privacy. She excused herself and headed to the library.
"She seems too young and inexperienced to be a governess," Lady Augusta mentioned as soon as Elizabeth left.
"Yes, she is young. She has done remarkably well with the children. You will see soon," Lady Martha replied.
"I agree. The children have benefited from her in more ways than one," Lady Isabella said.
Her mother-in-law was surprised by her praise. She had never heard her give Elizabeth credit in any matter. She realized Lady Isabella had finally warmed up to her. Within a few minutes, Georgiana arrived.
Miss Anderson was under the impression that Georgiana had called on her, but Lady Martha knew better. Georgiana had come to see Elizabeth and was disappointed not to see her.
After a few minutes of conversation, Lardy Martha understood Georgiana's predicament.
"Would you like to meet Miss Smith, my dear?"
"Oh! Yes of course."
"She might be in the library."
Georgiana excused herself and hurried to the library. The moment she saw Elizabeth, she flung herself into her arms. Elizabeth embraced her with equal happiness.
"I cannot express how happy I am to see you," Georgiana exclaimed with tears in her eyes. Elizabeth felt extremely emotional as well. Somehow Georgiana reminded her of Mary, and she could not control her tears.
"How have you been?"
"As well as I wrote to you a week ago."
Georgiana laughed.
"I wish to know about you."
"I have been wretched without your company. Mr. Anderson often mocks me for being a different person without the company of my best friend." Elizabeth was eager to know about Darcy.
"Well, I am back, now we can spend time together. Is Mr. Dar.. I mean your brother returning soon?"
"As I mentioned in my letters he has no plans of returning. I don't know what is distressing him. His letters prove that he is unhappy. Richard says the same. He is assisting his friend with his new estate."
Georgiana saved Elizabeth from agony by not mentioning Hertfordshire.
"Will you be joining him in town?"
"No. He did not mention anything about that either. I am glad you are back."
Elizabeth felt uncomfortable keeping Georgiana to herself, and they joined the rest in the parlour.
"There you are, Miss Darcy. Would you like me to accompany me to the village? We plan to go after dinner," Miss Anderson asked.
"I apologize, but I have to return to Pemberley. Mrs. Reynolds wants me to spend time with her looking over the preparations for the ball."
"Oh! I see. Is there any chance of Mr. Darcy arriving before that?"
"I don't think so."
"You must press him. Please do mention that we are here, it may coax him to come," she said smiling.
To Elizabeth, it was clear that Miss. Anderson fancied him. She felt a pang of jealousy and ridiculed her feelings.
She had no right over him and she never could. Georgiana suggested a walk in the gardens, Miss Anderson and her mother accompanied them. Both mother and daughter ignored Elizabeth and conversed only with Georgiana. All the conversations were directed around Darcy. Lady Anderson slyly asked whether Darcy was courting someone in town. Elizabeth could sense Georgiana's discomfort. She understood they were acquainted for many years. Georgiana wanted to see the children before she left. Elizabeth took her upstairs and found them sound asleep.
"Well, they will certainly ask for you once they are awake."
"That is all right. I will call again tomorrow. Let us not disturb them. Do you have a few minutes to talk?" Georgiana asked.
"Yes."
Elizabeth took Georgiana to her room.
"I am so sorry. I should not have suggested the walk. Both Lady Augusta and her daughter ignored you. I did not know what to do," Georgiana said with feeling.
"That is all right. They have known you for many years and we just met. Miss Darcy, I do not expect everyone to treat me as you do. Please do not think ill of people who do not prefer my company."
"You are too kind. I felt so uncomfortable and Miss Anderson always talks about my brother. I feel so stupid when people use me to get his attention."
"I understand."
"I wish he would be back soon. Now, that you are here, I am happy. But without Fitzwilliam, Pemberley seems so empty."
"I am certain he will return soon," Elizabeth said, guilty for the misery she had caused to both the siblings.
The day passed swiftly and Elizabeth met the other household members only during meals. She received a lot of hostility from Lady Anderson and her daughter, but it did not bother her. As to Lord Anderson, she felt a strange sense of uneasiness. From his conversations, he found him to be well-learned and intelligent. But he seemed restrained. The only time she saw him smile was when he met the children.
Maybe he reminds me of Mr. Darcy. She thought.
That night she was surprised to see Lord Anderson seated in the library, with a pile of books beside him. He noticed her and stood.
"Lord Anderson, pardon me, if I have disturbed you."
"You did not. Do you enjoy reading? My sister says you do."
"Oh! Yes. I love to read more than anything."
"I am certain the children benefit from it as well. I can see a lot of improvement in them since my last visit," he said with a hint of admiration.
"I thank you. They are well-behaved and eager to learn."
He said nothing. Elizabeth took the books and headed to the door wishing him a good night.
"Which part of town are you from?" he asked seriously, making her stop.
Elizabeth suddenly felt nervous. A million thoughts ran through her mind. Maybe he knows Uncle Gardiner. Oh no! What do I say?
"Gracechurch Street, sir," she replied in a low voice.
"Your parents?"
"I am an orphan."
"Then who raised you?"
Elizabeth was irked but she did not show it.
"My aunt."
He was silent.
"May I leave or do you need a history of my employment as a governess as well?" she asked unable to hold her sarcasm.
Lord Anderson was silent. Slowly a smile appeared on his face.
"Maybe we can go over the details during breakfast," he said with a smile.
Elizabeth smiled, she did not know why, but she liked him. Again, she thought his demeanor was similar to Darcy. She went to sleep that night, day by day getting tired of lying about her identity.