Free Pride, Prejudice & Secrets by C.P. Odom Page A

much less a member of his family, would be completely impossible, and he would not permit you to leave until your fever is gone.”
    At these words, Elizabeth recognized that Charlotte wore a rather strange expression on her face — an expression of amazement, and yes, even of pride.
    And I have to join her in that, she thought, though her headache was making any attempt to think quite distressing. Who would have ever thought my foolish cousin capable of standing up to his patroness? It is rather astounding…and also quite touching.
    “I could not ask for anything more,” she said, laying her hand on Charlotte’s arm in token of her sincerity. “Mr. Collins is, after all, completely dependent on Lady Catherine’s approval. I do hope that this will not cause any permanent harm in his relationship with her.”
    Charlotte looked doubtful. “Only time will tell in that regard. But the situation does mean…”
    “…that I shall have to leave as soon as I can travel. I shall send an express to my uncle in the morning. I believe I should be well enough to travel on Sunday, and I shall ask him to engage a carriage and come for me. Do you think Maria will want to leave early?”
    “No, I think not.” Charlotte gave Elizabeth the smile reserved for older sisters discussing the foibles of their younger siblings. “She is still much enamoured of teas and dinners at Rosings. I believe she has tabulated every visit she has made and will be capable of regaling all the family with the particulars until Father firmly tells her to cease.”
    “I see.” Elizabeth smiled wanly, remembering her own visits to that estate with no particular favour. “Then I shall inform my uncle it will only be myself.”
    “Eliza, I do not want you to be too hasty…” Charlotte said, but Elizabeth only smiled again.
    “I do not believe it will be too onerous, and, in any case, if I am not feeling better tomorrow evening, we can send another express asking for a delay. No, I do not want to cause your husband any problems. It was quite good of him to stand firm against Lady Catherine. The sooner I am gone, the better for all concerned.”
    “Perhaps.” Charlotte looked doubtful before she said, “A delay of a few days might be advisable. It would make it seem less as if you were being untimely forced to leave. And in any case, it might be difficult for your uncle to engage a carriage on Sunday.”
    Elizabeth frowned at this and eventually nodded. “You may be right in that. Very well, then, I shall stay through Sunday and request him to travel on Monday.
    Seeing the uncertain look on her friend’s face, Elizabeth hastened to reassure her. “Everything will be fine, Charlotte. Really, it will — especially if I wait until Monday to depart.”
    Then, seeking to end the conversation and Charlotte’s misgivings, she said, “And since I have at least learned enough to admit my illness, I believe I shall lie down again. Sleep is what I need.”
    “I think that is a very good idea, but I want your assurance you will ring if you need anything at all.”
    “I shall do so,” Elizabeth said solemnly, lying back and pulling the coverlet over her. “I promise.”
    “See that you do.” Before leaving, Charlotte lit the candle on the bedside table, for the room was now growing dim.
    Elizabeth sighed as Charlotte left and looked over at Darcy’s note. I should read it again and try to consider what I can do . She pressed her fingers against the throbbing ache behind her forehead. But it is too much. I cannot think on it tonight. I shall be better tomorrow, and I shall consider it then. Yes, tomorrow — that will be soon enough, I am sure.
    Again, and most fortunately for her, she was asleep before she even realized the healing balm of slumber was near.
    Friday, April 10, 1812: Darcy Townhouse, London
    The sun was a handbreadth above the horizon when Darcy returned to his home, and he immediately ordered hot water and the presence of his valet.