Unwilling

By Elizabeth Adams

Copyright © 2016 Elizabeth Adams

Dedication

For my eldest daughter, on the occasion of her tenth birthday. Dream big, baby girl. The world is yours.

Acknowledgements

I’d like to thank my editor, Lori Todd, for going through this book with a fine tooth comb and making it better than it would have been without her graceful touch. Thank you! You are a treasure.

Caitlin Daschner at Chromantic Studio is a creative genius. She designed this lovely cover and was a big encouragement to me throughout my own crazy creative process.

Thank you Linda and Debbie for the cold reading and the comments and the suggestions. I am truly grateful. Your input was invaluable. Rose and Pamela were encouraging and inspirational.

My husband was endlessly reassuring and supportive throughout this process. He’s a catch.

So many friends have been absolute rocks. They’ve held the bar high and stretched me beyond my comfort zone. Thank you. You make me a better writer.

Chapter 1

3 December, 1811

5 Days After the Netherfield Ball

Longbourn, Hertfordshire

Thomas Bennet sat in his study facing his old friend Withers, a man he had known since they were boys together and who was a physician in the next town. Once a month, they would meet for a game of chess and a glass of port to discuss old times and new discoveries. Today, after their game, which Withers happily won, Bennet asked his friend if he wouldn’t mind giving him a bit of an examination. He’d had some chest pain lately, and though he thought it was likely nothing, it was frequent enough that he thought he should bring it up.

After an examination lying on the divan in his bookroom, Bennet sat up and retied his cravat and pulled his jacket back on while his old friend looked on worriedly. Finally, Withers told Bennet what he suspected, as much as it pained him.

Thomas Bennet’s heart was failing and he wasn’t long for this earth.

“Are you sure?” asked Mr. Bennet.

“I’m sorry, Bennet. I know it isn’t welcome news. But with any luck, you will have another year, possibly two. It could be more. These things aren’t always predictable.”

Mr. Bennet nodded slowly. “Is there anything to be done?” he asked.

“I’m afraid there isn’t much. Relaxation, a calm environment. Some say the seaside is restorative. Perhaps your family is due for a holiday.”

Mr. Bennet nodded again, his eyes on the floor.

The physician held out his hand. “Don’t hesitate to call for me if you experience further problems. I will attend you as soon as possible.”

“Thank you, Withers.”

“Of course. Take care, Bennet.” The physician left the room and closed the door quietly behind him.