“Good day to you then,” called Mr. Wyndham.
Then the younger brother looked directly at Kitty and saluted. Their eyes locked with a powerful resonance that set her tingling. Only the resurgence of the rain broke the spell and she scurried into the house.
Chapter Nine
The next morning Kitty and Georgiana set out for Swan’s Nest.
“I have never ridden in a phaeton, Georgiana. What an excellent driver you are. Would you teach me to drive?”
Georgiana laughed merrily. “Of course. It will be simple for such an accomplished horsewoman.”
The ball was a few days hence, and Georgiana had not yet seen Matilda due to wet weather and muddy roads. There was much to say before dancing could begin. Messages had been sent back and forth and it was arranged the young ladies would picnic in a clearing at the farther end of the pond—secrecy was vital for their frank discussion.
The squire’s stable boy stepped up to hold the ponies. Whilst the footman handed the young ladies out, the squire himself approached. His face was weathered and his dark hair now more than half white but there was an uncanny resemblance of his countenance in his son Andrew and in two of his daughters. The spirited blue eyes were the strongest feature. He offered an arm to each young lady.
As they approached the house, Lady Stapleton emerged, twittering with joy.
“The girls will be down at any moment. Julia ran back to fetch her sketchpad and a few supplies,” she explained. “My dear Georgiana, my heart has ached to see you, lass.” She grasped her by the shoulders and beamed at her. “You look as lovely as ever.” Then she paused, eyeing her carefully. “Do I detect a special bloom? Are you in love?”
Georgiana blushed furiously. “Fie, Lady Stapleton, do not tease me so!”
“There is no fooling this woman,” the squire said with a gleam in his eye. “Her heart can penetrate the thickest fog. Perhaps all will be revealed at the ball?”
Kitty scrambled for a way to rescue Georgiana.
“Lady Stapleton, you mentioned a sketchpad. I did not know Julia was an artist.”
The strategy was successful and diverted the intrusive if loving questions away from a trembling Georgiana.
“Ah yes, Julia has quite the talent …”
Just then Matilda and Julia emerged from the house.
“Georgiana!” exclaimed Matilda, and the two friends embraced, rocking and giggling. At the moment, they looked more like schoolgirls than proper young ladies who had already come out.
“I have so much to acquaint you with!” cried Georgiana.
“And I, you,” answered Matilda.
“Good morning, Miss Bennet, it is wonderful to see you again,” Julia said, her serenity a great contrast to Matilda’s wild enthusiasm. It put Kitty in mind of her sister Jane’s composed countenance and quiet wisdom.
“Thank you, and do call me Kitty. I am delighted to see you again before the ball. I have so many questions. And I was just told that you draw. I am interested in learning myself. We had no drawing masters anywhere near Longbourn. I would very much like to see your work.”
Julia’s face brightened at Kitty’s interest.
“Let us be off!” cried Matilda, and the young ladies promptly turned down the path towards Cobe’s Clearing.
The path meandered alongside the pond through stony meadows and stands of trees, detouring around larger outcroppings of rock. Georgiana and Matilda chattered noisily the entire way, whilst Kitty and Julia both were immersed in their surroundings, listening to the trill of the waterfall and the calls of the birds. Soon the young ladies emerged from a stand of cedars into a sunlit alcove sheltered by rocks. The footman and maid had spread a blanket on a grassy sward and set out their foodstuffs and cushions in the gently dappled light. Julia dismissed them with thanks.
Georgiana eyed each young lady and then began.
“Friends, I have confided in Kitty about Benjamin and she has agreed, like you, to help me avoid the determined pursuits of Mr. Christopher and …” here she cast Julia an uncomfortable glance … “and Mr. Douglas, though I am sure his feelings are not at all engaged. I believe it is his stepmother who …”
Julia’s brow knit and she looked down at her lap.
“And please, draw attention away from me even when Benjamin is spoken of. If only I didn’t blush so easily! I fear everyone will know. Even this morning … Kitty, thank you for the rescue when Squire and Lady Stapleton were roasting me—”
“Georgiana,” said Kitty with a laugh, “I think I should warn you: I believe your secret was revealed the morning Mr. Benjamin rode through the rain simply to call on you, and to secure the first dance. I know my sister well, and I believe she is aware of your mutual attraction. She even said she is not above giving true love a little help.”
“Oh dear,” Georgiana fretted. “Well … yes … how kind of her. But, oh, do you think she will tell my brother?”
“I do not know. I doubt she keeps secrets from him; but she may delay for a time if she thinks it best.”
Julia had gathered her equanimity. “The ball is just days away. Perhaps we should see what transpires at that happy event?”
“Yes, yes!” cried Matilda. “We can still keep our pact to protect each other from unwanted suitors. However, I believe we will all be obliged to dance with each young man more than once that evening.”
“I am sure you are right,” Georgiana replied, consternation written on her face.
“Can you not put on a cold demeanor with those two? It is not as if you might injure them—they only pursue your fortune,” said Matilda as she bit into a sandwich.
“Some might think that Benjamin, as a second son, is also pursuing my fortune,” Georgiana mused.
“Do you think there is any truth in that?” Julia asked.
Georgiana stared at the pond in contemplation while the others chewed thoughtfully.
“No, I do not believe so. He has been such a kind friend for so many years. He has given up his own comfort for mine many times. What … truly, do any of you think I may be blind to less honorable intentions he may have?”
Julia spoke with reasoned calm. “Again, let us be careful observers of what transpires at the ball. I suggest we meet afterwards, like this—away from home and listening ears—where we may speak frankly.”
After a pause, Kitty thought it a good time to ask a question that could be crucial to her acceptance in the neighborhood.
“May I ask if either of you have an interest in any young man hereabouts? I do not wish to tread on your toes unknowingly, or allow myself to become attracted to a man that one of you has hopes for,” Kitty said. “Nor do I wish to intrude on any young lady’s interest.”
“My hopes are for a new young man—someone’s cousin or friend—to be brought to the ball and sweep me away!” answered Matilda with a giggle. “I was once besotted with Mr. Owen Wyndham. I still think him madly attractive in looks, but his abiding fascination with horses—an interest I do not share—led me to be bored with him. Anyway, he showed no real interest in me. I fancy no one in particular at present, nor do I know of any other involvements. Julia?”
Her sister sighed. “No, I do not.”
Julia would speak of no one so Kitty felt free to ask, “What about Andrew himself? Does he court a lady here … or elsewhere?” Those spirited blue eyes had also spent much time in Scotland.
“Andrew is kind and attentive but I am not aware of any abiding interest in a young lady hereabouts. He has certainly never spoken to me about anyone in particular,” Julia replied, giving Kitty an amused, sidelong glance. “Again, let us see what the ball brings.”
Georgiana clapped her hands together. “Very well then, let us strike hands to protect each other’s best interest and to meet as soon as possible after the ball.”
Laughing, they joined hands in the bargain.
“To a romantic and revealing ball!” cried Matilda.
Chapter Ten
At last the eve
ning of the ball arrived and Pemberley was abuzz with excitement. Candles blazed and flowers filled the entry and the ballroom.
Poppy was nearly finished adding small blooms to Kitty’s hair when a knock at the door announced Lizzy. Adorned in cream silk with green trimmings, Lizzy looked like a young queen. A mix of emeralds and diamonds sparkled in her hair, at her ears, and at the neckline of her gown.
Kitty drew a quick breath.
“Lizzy, you look so beautiful. You are glowing, and your color has returned. I had thought the last few days that you might be feeling unwell?”
“Thank you for your compliments, Kitty. I feel very well tonight, and all preparations seem to be in order. Your hair looks lovely! Poppy, you have done a splendid job.”
Poppy beamed as she tucked in the last few blossoms.
“I have something for you, Kitty. Actually, it was Fitzwilliam’s idea. As I looked through the Darcy jewels for tonight, I came across these pieces of amethyst. Fitzwilliam remembers his grandmother wearing them long ago. I had them reset with diamonds when we married, but they do not flatter a woman of my coloring, nor of Georgiana’s. They will look lovely with your lighter hair and eyes. Should you like to wear them this evening?”
“Truly, Lizzy? Oh, yes! They are divine. I have only my simple cross; I love it but it is quite lost in the splendor of this gown. These jewels are just the thing.”
Lizzy came around behind and fastened the necklace whilst Kitty attached the ear bobs. When she faced the looking glass, her whole face shone.
“Perfect!” the three women pronounced at once, and then laughed together.
“We shall meet Georgiana in the music room in a quarter of an hour, Kitty. The guests will begin arriving in half an hour and we must be on hand to greet them.”
Kitty rose and gave her sister an affectionate hug.
“Oh, Lizzy, this is all so … so unbelievably kind. It is beyond my dreams. I have made new friends—both gentlemen and ladies—and am learning new information and skills, and I just … well … I feel like I am living a fairytale. I don’t know how to express my thanks.”
“Your radiant glow is enough,” Lizzy replied. With an affectionate squeeze of Kitty’s shoulder, Lizzy quit the room.
≈
Kitty and Lizzy had been only minutes in the music room when Georgiana floated in. Her elegant lavender gown trimmed in green set off her features. She looked every inch an heiress.
“Well, isn’t my brother a fortunate man tonight!” Georgiana’s eyes twinkled. “He shall dance with three of the loveliest ladies at the ball.”
“We must take care not to let it swell his head too much, girls,” Lizzy replied, her dimple peeping out. “But perhaps it will help him better appreciate a ball—tonight, and in the future. Balls are not a favorite of his, as you may know.”
≈
Lord and Lady Drake were the first to arrive with their sons. Benjamin’s eyes immediately sought Georgiana’s and widened at her beauty. Her delight in seeing him was equally obvious. Kitty wished the two of them could just dance away together in a cloud of happiness.
And what did she wish for herself tonight? Before she could formulate an answer, a deep voice interrupted her thoughts.
“Enchanté, Miss Bennet. You truly outshine your jewels.” Christopher Drake swept a stylized bow before her whilst his eyes roamed up and down her figure.
His manner had not improved. She masked her discomfort with a general reply, then moved her focus to the next arrivals.
How would she ever keep all the names and faces straight? Her head swam as she greeted the various families and guests. Georgiana was at her side, eloquently making the introductions.
The Stapletons were the next familiar group to arrive, and Kitty found comfort in their talkative friendliness. She wished she could break free of the line and join Julia and Matilda, but knew that must wait until later.
“Thank you so much for inviting us,” said Andrew with an elegant bow, looking directly at Kitty. “You are radiant tonight, Miss Bennet. You shall have more offers of partners than you can possibly accommodate. Pray, do not forget me for the second set.” He smiled at her warmly.
“I look forward to it, Mr. Stapleton. I shall not forget.”
Two more family groups new to Kitty followed, after which she found herself suddenly lost in the grey sea of Owen Wyndham’s eyes; he was the first of his family in the line.
“Miss Bennet, I am honored,” he said, with a simple bow.
She caught her breath and could not speak for a moment.
“I … we are … so happy you could all join us,” she said, recovering her composure. Why did his gaze discomfit her so? It held not the leer of Mr. Christopher’s nor the friendly warmth of Mr. Andrew’s. It was not offensive or unkind, yet she was quite undone and all aflutter.
Lucy’s stilted voice broke into her thoughts.
“Miss Bennet, I look forward to this ball, and to us becoming better acquainted.” She made an elegant curtsey.
“Hello Miss Jamison, we are honored to have you with us.”
The musicians began tuning their instruments and the guests gathered around the edges of the ballroom.
Kitty looked towards her sister. “Oh, Lizzy, what do I do?”
Darcy offered his arm and a smile. “Come, Miss Bennet. Let us open the ball.”
He was so elegant. Kitty felt flustered and out of her depth.
He smiled at her warmly. “Do not be uneasy. You look charming, Kitty. Just follow my lead.”
The instruments joined in a swell as Darcy led Kitty to the center of the floor.
“Do we dance alone?” she asked in a faint voice.
Before he could answer, the music began. Her chest locked. No breath moved in or out. The room was a swirl of light and sound. Somehow she stayed on her feet. At the edge of the room she saw Lizzy, a beacon in the blur of faces and colors. Was that a wink?
Kitty took a deep breath and allowed happiness to flow through her, like moonlight moving through a vase of water.
Soon other couples joined the formation. A sigh of relief escaped her on seeing Georgiana and Benjamin at her left.
Darcy’s dancing was elegant, and many curious eyes followed Kitty on the floor.
“You are an excellent dancer, Kitty. I could not be more proud of you.”
Kitty thought she would burst from happiness at such a kind remark. Her radiance was genuine and drew admiring looks. How blessed was this happy chance!
When Darcy led her from the floor to where Lizzy stood, Andrew Stapleton immediately appeared and escorted her back to the set. His attention was focused on her alone and his face was animated. She felt the envious glances from other young ladies as Andrew led her through the movements and complimented her grace.
Kitty’s next set was promised to Benjamin, who proved a cheerful partner with much to say. He was lively and kind, and Kitty thought what a perfect match he was for Georgiana.
As the music ended, Douglas Wyndham joined her on the floor, saying not a word. Her attempts to engage him in conversation garnered only the shortest of replies so she gave up the effort and immersed herself in the music.
After four sets, Kitty was parched and desirous of a rest when Christopher Drake arrived with a pretentious toss of his blonde hair. Placing her hand on his arm he said, “At last I may claim my turn with this divine nymph.”
“Sir, I have promised—”
He laughed and led her to the set as the music began.
“I have had my eye on you all evening, Miss Bennet. Tell me, Hertfordshire must hold many fine balls for you to be so elegant a dancer.”
She had not moved much in society but Kitty had experience enough to recognize hollow flattery and strove to turn the conversation to more general topics.
“We did not have many fine balls, sir, but enjoyed regular assemblies in Meryton, the village near my home. With four sisters, I had much practice at dancing.”
To her surprise
, his gaze wandered over the room as they danced. Was he hunting for his next partner? Looking to see who was watching him? Whichever it was, she was not impressed. It was soon apparent he was watching Georgiana, now partnered with Andrew. Kitty was relieved when the dance ended and looked to see if Georgiana might need assistance to divert Christopher’s advances.
She could not see her friend.
The next dance was announced and Owen Wyndham approached, eyeing her carefully.
“You look positively parched, Miss Bennet. May I bring you some refreshment before we dance?”
His awareness surprised her and she was happy for the chance to catch her breath.
“Thank you. You are most kind. My first partners have kept me very busy indeed.”
He nodded thoughtfully and offered his arm, which she took gratefully. After procuring lemonade and a biscuit, he led her near to the doors that opened onto the terrace and a big starry sky.
“The candlelight is nice enough,” he mused, “but for myself, Miss Bennet, I prefer the stars.” He looked up at the sky and then into her eyes.
Again a small thrill chased through her body but she could not fathom why.
“I have watched you on the floor tonight. I compliment you on your fine dancing. You are graceful. Athletic even. I imagine you sit a horse well.”
She stared at him in surprise. Did he know of her love for riding? Or was this a lucky guess? Curious, she was emboldened to speak.
“Thank you, Mr. Owen, but pray, how did you know I ride?”
His face flushed and he looked at her with a sheepish grin.
“Lady Drake informed me. She came to see our new foal and mentioned how pleased she was to have another equestrienne in the neighborhood. She spoke of an upcoming ladies’ ride, and I readily offered my services as a guide.”
Kitty was amused and flattered.
Her Summer at Pemberley Page 8
