“Well, as I understand it, you will leave for London in six days. Your father says you will stay with a relative in town, though I did offer my home to your family.” She nodded. He continued, “I believe the week before the wedding will be largely comprised of shopping to complete your trousseau, though that is your mother’s purview. Then we will be wed on the seventeenth at church and there will be a breakfast following.” He spoke clearly in a crisp tone, as if reciting his lessons for his tutor. If he had not stroked the back of her hand and pulled her a little closer, she would not have known he had any affection for her at all.

“And after that?” she asked. Her voice sounded thick and choked to her own ears, but he did not seem to notice.

“We shall remain at Darcy House six days and then begin our journey to The Lakes.”

She could hear the excitement in his voice, though it was subtle, and a small amount of it transferred to her. She had always wanted to see The Lakes; they would be beautiful regardless of who she was seeing them with. Travel was its own reward and she was sure this would only be the first of many trips. She reminded herself that he was a busy man with a wide acquaintance and she would not be required to be at his beck and call. Surely he would have things to do, letters to write, hopefully friends to visit. And her sister coming with her would make it more bearable. But then, he had requested they travel alone.

“Fitzwilliam?”

“Yes, dear?” He smiled at her warmly.

“I shall have to get used to that.”

“Used to what? Being called dear?”

“Well, yes, but I was referring to your smile.”

“Pardon me?” he said, clearly confused.

“I have not seen you smile above ten times in all of our acquaintance.”

“Truly?”

She nodded. “But today alone you have smiled, or at least looked moderately pleased, nearly your entire visit.”

“Shall I flatter you and say it is all down to your enchanting presence?”

“Flattery has its place, but right now I think I’d prefer to hear the truth.”

He sighed. “The truth is that when I met you in Hertfordshire, I had just come away from a difficult family situation that had left me frustrated and angry and a great many other things I shouldn’t say to a lady.” Her face showed surprise and then sympathy, and he gave her a tired smile. “And I’m sure this will not surprise you, but Rosings is not the most relaxing place to visit.”

“I don’t know what you mean. I found it delightful.”