Free Christmas at Pemberley by Regina Jeffers

the icy path, and within seconds the inn’s door swung wide to a couple draped in soaking wet outerwear.
    â€œGreetings,” Mr. Washington called as he approached. “Welcome to Prestwick’s Portal.”
    The young man removed his beaver and shook the dampness from his greatcoat. Quickly checking the woman to see to her comfort, he turned to the innkeeper. “We were certainly pleased to see the road markings leading to your inn, Sir.” The man helped the lady with her cloak. “I hope you have a room available for Mrs. Joseph and me.”
    Mr. Washington’s face fell. “I fear, Sir, that we’re beyond capacity. Even my maid’s room is being used for two of the gentlemen’s gentlemen.” He gestured to those who curiously looked on.
    Elizabeth broke away from the group and intervened. “Surely, something can be arranged, Mr. Washington. Obviously, Mrs. Joseph cannot return to the icy roads.” She referred to the young woman’s physical condition—very much with child. “It’s simply too dangerous.”

    â€œWhere would you have me house the Josephs?” Mr. Washington asked defensively. “Every room’s full.” He glanced toward where the baron sat alone in the common room. “We have no other options.”
    The group’s gaze followed his to where Baron Bloomfield finished his meal. “What say you, Bloomfield?” Sir Jonathan asked. “Are you willing to relinquish your room to the couple?”
    The baron looked up with disdain. “You address me, Padget?”
    â€œAre you of the persuasion, Sir, to consider a room reshuffling to accommodate Mr. and Mrs. Joseph?”
    Bloomfield’s gaze fell on the waiting couple before a snarl curled his upper lip. “I think not. The prospects of sharing a room with a wheezing and gouty Bradley are impossible. It’s bad enough to experience the man’s aches and pains through this inn’s thin walls. Encountering the man’s complaints first hand will not occur.”
    Darcy, recognizing Elizabeth’s building ire, suggested, “Mrs. Darcy, why do you not see Mrs. Joseph closer to the hearth while we sort this out. I’m sure the lady could use some hot tea.”
    Elizabeth resented being relegated to the role of hostess, but she heard her husband’s resolve. He understood her objections to the baron’s persistence and would deal with it on her behalf. “Certainly, Mr. Darcy. Come, Mrs. Joseph.You must be chilled quite through.”
    â€œThank you, Ma’am. I’m just that.” Mrs. Joseph accepted Elizabeth’s arm as support.
    Darcy cleared his throat. “Gentlemen, perhaps we can place our heads together and come up with a solution for the Josephs’ dilemma.” He gestured to a small table, and the other travelers—minus Bloomfield and Bradley—joined him. “Mr. Washington, I’m certain Mr. Joseph could use a tankard of ale.”
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    Elizabeth ordered tea and soup for the lady and settled Mrs. Joseph before the fire. “I’m Elizabeth Darcy,” she said as she helped the woman lower her frame into the straight-backed chair. “My husband and I are from Derbyshire.”

    â€œI’m pleased to have the acquaintance, Mrs. Darcy.” Mrs. Joseph extended her hands to the fire. “I’m Mary Joseph. My husband and I reside in Staffordshire.” She expelled a deep sigh as the warmth reached her. “It’s been a treacherous few hours.”
    â€œYou have been traveling long?” Elizabeth asked.
    â€œThree days. Matthew allowed extra time because of my condition.” Mrs. Joseph rested her hand comfortably on her expanded abdomen. “We return to Northumberland. Newcastle, actually. We received news recently that my husband’s mother has taken seriously ill. Her days may be numbered so we set out to be at her bedside.”
    Elizabeth waited