A few days after Kitty's engagement ball, Elizabeth woke up before dawn. The day was as cold as expected in November, but, thankfully, it wasn't raining anymore. Due to the rain, she hadn't left the house for three days, so she dressed in her warmest gown and spencer and started the one-mile walk to Oakham Mount.
Autumn used to be one of her favorite seasons, due to the changes in the colors of the fields and trees, but this year, the yellow and brown leaves didn't have the same appeal. She knew the colors of the season were as beautiful as ever, but she couldn't appreciate them in the same way. She was a different person; Jane's death had changed everything.
She climbed to the top of Oakham Mount and saw Mr. Darcy in her most-favored place. It was the fourth time they encountered each other there and shared a sunrise. After the first disastrous meeting and his subsequent apology, they developed a friendly relationship. Elizabeth was aware that he was a man of few words, but the few conversations they had engaged in were the most stimulating she had ever had.
"Good morning, Mr. Darcy. "She added with a gentle smile, "You are in my favorite spot again. It seems we are destined to meet here during sunrise."
"Good morning to you, Miss Bennet. I hope I'm not an unwelcome company. Could you share your favorite place with me?"
Elizabeth's only answer was a smile and they sat together in companionable silence watching the sunrise.
After sunrise, they conversed for several minutes about the happiest moments of their respective lives. She told him amusing stories of her childhood and some precious memories of her dear Jane. He told her about his childhood at Pemberley, his deceased parents, and a little about Georgiana.
Perhaps it was the beautiful and serene setting, or perhaps it was the quiet gentleman sitting next to her - she would probably never know - but when she returned home, she felt finally that someday she could be at peace with the past.
PPP
Darcy returned to Netherfield Park in a very good mood and went directly to his bedchamber to change clothes before breakfast, but first, he decided it was time to read the letter on his desk.
7th November 1811
Greystone, Scotland
Dear brother,
I am very glad you are in good health and enjoying your time in Hertfordshire. I don't know Mr. Bingley very well, but the few times I saw him, he seemed a very kind man.
I want to share with you the most wonderful news. Since October I have been feeling dizzy and very tired. George was very worried about my poor health and he sent for the best doctor in Edinburgh. His name is Mr. Wilson and he met our father several years ago. He told me that I am pregnant and the baby probably will be born in April.
Fortunately, close to my bedroom, there is a small nursery with an old cradle. I want to buy a new one, but George told me the harvest was very poor this year, and we have to economize for some months. He was very sad that he couldn't please me, and I am feeling very bad about it. I know he has been working very hard and it is not his fault for the bad weather.
Yesterday, we went to Edinburgh to buy some fabrics and ribbons for the baby. I want to start sewing some caps, and a little gown for him. I am convinced the baby will be a boy.
I miss you very much brother, I would love to live closer and see you more often. Please, come to Greystone before the baby is born.
If you are willing, we want you to be his/her godfather.
Your loving sister,
Georgiana Wickham.
He wasn't happy with the news of Georgiana's pregnancy; it was evident that she was still a child in some ways. He wasn't surprised by their lack of money; Wickham was used to expending more money than he had. Thankfully the Greystone's steward was paying the servants and the tenant's house repairments. He wouldn't send them more money; they had to learn to live within their income. He didn't want to be the godfather of Georgiana's child, but he still felt responsible for Georgiana's well-being and happiness, and the child was a Darcy too.
After three failed attempts, he finished writing the answer to his sister's letter.
22nd November 1811
Netherfield Park, Hertfordshire
Dear Georgiana,
I received your letter. I am glad you are happy and in good health. You have to take care of yourself and follow the Doctor's orders.
Bingley is getting used to living in the country very well and is in the process of becoming a very good landowner. I spend several hours every day teaching him the different tasks he should do to guarantee the prosperity of the estate.
I promise I will try to go to Greystone in April.
Yours,
Fitzwilliam Darcy.