Page 100 of The Long Road Back to Yesterday

“Georgiana, go ahead. I will join you in a moment.”

When the door closed behind his sister, he returned to Elizabeth.

“I am deeply sorry for everything you and your family have suffered.”

“Thank you, sir.”

He hesitated only a moment before drawing her into his arms.

Elizabeth rested her cheek against his chest and closed her eyes, allowing herself simply to be held.

His arms tightened around her, and he rested his chin against her head.

“I wish I could undo some part of it for you.”

“I know.”

At last, he released her. “I must see Georgiana home.”

“Yes.”

He touched her hand before turning toward the door. “Until tomorrow, Elizabeth.”

“Until tomorrow, sir.”

She watched him leave, her heart pounding in her ears.

Mr. Darcy had held her in his arms.

Did he feel for her what she felt for him? She was almost certain he did, but perhaps he had meant only to comfort her.

Elizabeth sank onto the couch and closed her eyes, remembering the feel of his arms around her and hoping she had not mistaken compassion for something more.

* * *

Elizabeth slept poorly.

When she went downstairs the next morning and slipped outside, the sky was still dark.

Mr. Darcy waited near the gate with his horse, but Georgiana was not with him.

“Is Georgiana ill?”

“Yes. She was ill again after she woke. The sickness passed, but she was tired and wished to remain at Pemberley.”

“I understand that fatigue can be considerable in the early months.”

“She insisted I come. I believe she thought I might hover over her for the entire morning if she did not send me away.”

Elizabeth laughed.

“I expect she was right.”

His expression eased.

“Will you walk with me, sir?”

“It would be my pleasure, Miss Elizabeth.”