He turned around and lay by his wife, sleeping next to her for the first time in over fifteen years.

Chapter 15

Elizabeth was vexed when she realized she had spoken to Mr. Darcy about a companion for their journey but that nothing had been settled. She had thought to speak with Jane and ask her what she would wish to do. She did not want to deprive her father of all good company, but Jane might like to go. Of course, she might also say yes only because Elizabeth asked her, so she would have to be careful to make it clear she would be happy to take Mary in her place if Jane would rather stay at the shore.

Of course, Mary had never really traveled anywhere, and she did not have Jane’s beauty or sweet spirit. It was possible she would never marry, or not for some time. This might be her only chance for such an experience. Of course, she might attend Jane on her wedding trip, but Elizabeth thought it likely that Jane would love her new husband, or at least like him, and a companion might not be as important to her. At least she had two sisters to choose from. She should speak to Jane and ask her opinion about it all. Her sister’s level-headedness would be helpful in her decision.

But what if Mr. Darcy said no? It was the custom for the bride to take a companion on the wedding tour, but he would technically be in control of said tour and her sister would be under his protection for the duration. He could decline if he wished. It would be strange and impolite, certainly, and would look very odd, but he did have the right.

Oh! Why had she not secured an answer the night before?

“Mr. Darcy, Miss.”

Elizabeth looked up from her embroidery as the maid announced her betrothed’s presence. She smiled and stood to greet him.

“Fitzwilliam, I’m glad you’re here. There’s something we must speak of.”

His heart sped up just a tiny bit at her welcoming smile and he felt a little like a green schoolboy as he nodded to her sister and went to Elizabeth. He kissed her hand and sat beside her. “What is it, my dear?”

“The wedding trip! We discussed it yesterday but we came to no conclusions.”

“Ah, yes. I believe you know my sentiments. What do you wish to do?” he asked neutrally.

“I believe I would like my sister to accompany us,” she said quietly, looking at her embroidery. She looked up in time to see his face twitch slightly, his mouth turning down in a frown.

Darcy quickly schooled his features and sighed. “Very well. If that is your wish, I cannot deny you. I will make the necessary arrangements.”

He rose and she impulsively grabbed his sleeve.