Matchmaking at Pemberley Page 11

  “Oh! It’s you…haven’t you done enough as well? I suppose you win. You shall have possession of everything, my fortune and my person. Congratulations on a job well done.”

  Taking a seat upon the floor at her feet, he reached up and took a cool, limp hand in his. Her fingers, delicate and well-shaped, felt lifeless. Where had the fire gone?

  “You made me a most desperate man…and I do not own you. I have no need of your money, but as for your person, I will only take what you are willing to give. Can you not see that we are perfectly suited?”

  “You know nothing but your own desires. Do you realize that Charles threatened to turn me out of Netherfield? A quiet country existence with a small allowance, where I should contemplate my life… What in hell does that mean! My father left a fortune to me, for my comfort, to do with as I wish. How dare he! How dare you!”

  Ned forced himself not to smile and pretended to study the carpet in reflection. That was the Caroline he wanted, not some weak-willed miss who cowed to every order, but it was not entirely his fault. She was equally to blame for the present situation, yet it was one that could end happily.

  “I dare because I love you. How many others can say that to be true? And… I believe that you have feelings for me. As for your fortune, that is easily managed. It can be arranged legally so you have complete control alone. So, if you decide one day that life with me is unbearable it will not be lost. But I promise to do my best to make you happy.”

  Caroline had risen and placed some distance between them. His warm hand upon hers had been unsettling. Ever since she had returned from Piper’s Bend the hours had been spent playing out every possible scenario besides marriage. So then why did the prospect suddenly seem to be the best option? ‘Lady Adley’ did have a nice sound to it, and none of her immediate circle had a title. Crispin, for she refused to call him Ned, was indeed most attractive and would probably not run to fat as he aged. She could have done far worse. Now, as she studied him sitting cross-legged on the floor, he was definitely appealing. It would be foolish to pass up such an opportunity, and she was no fool.

  “I have decided to accept your proposal on one condition,” she finally said.

  Rising to his feet, Ned arched an eyebrow in interest. He cared not about conditions.

  “Name it”

  “We not wait for the wedding night to consummate our agreement.”

  “What?”

  “Now… we seal our agreement now.”

  Crossing the divide of the room, Ned swept her up as his lips crashed down upon hers. Never before would he have so eagerly sold his soul, but that was the price of marrying Caroline Bingley.

  ~TWENTY-SIX~

  Two days later…

  With the engagement formalized, Caroline finally appeared for dinner, dressed as if a queen receiving her subjects. Her demeanor was beyond congenial as she conversed with Elizabeth and Jane. Only Georgiana remained unusually reserved, but her inaction was hardly noticed amidst the flurry of wedding preparations. Even Agnes Brackleburn, having called upon Elizabeth some days ago to reconcile, would assist in the festivities and remain at Pemberley for the duration. Needing time away from her brother, it would also allow her to repair her relationship with Georgiana. The pale young lady had not spoken a word to her since her arrival, but all attentions were currently focused on being rid of Caroline. That woman had done great damage to all present at one time or another. For now, Agnes would play her part in the removal. Even if it meant sewing the wedding trousseau herself.

  “I must give you my greatest thanks for the part you played in our happiness, Lady Agnes. A more perfect cupid there never was. We shall always remember the magical atmosphere of Piper’s Bend. I rather feel like a fairytale princess,” Caroline said as if everyone had suddenly forgot her very loud and unladylike refusal of Ned’s proposal.

  In truth, once the engagement was announced, all gossip did concur with the couple being a fierce love match, only to be rivaled by that of legends. Everyone that had been present now told tales of their own contribution to the happy ending. Soon, as all gossip does, it would fade away once the wedding had taken place, but until then, all was a bit of organized chaos. It was indeed fortunate that the even was to take place at Pemberley as no other house could accommodate so quickly. The presence of Jane Bingley and Agnes Brackleburn did much to alleviate the burden from Elizabeth as each was delegated specific tasks to ensure no missed detail would prevent the ceremony. As the gentlemen took to the library after dinner, the ladies were left to finalize the plans.

  No one had thought it strange that the bride seemed disinterested aside from her gown. Caroline had begged to be excused directly after the meal, feigning fatigue. In reality, she did not care a whit about the wedding as long as it did not require her personal labors. Presiding over an event was one thing, doing the work was another, and she was planning on having a late-night encounter. It would not do to be tired when he arrived. Since agreeing to the marriage, Ned had been a regular visitor to her chamber once the rest of the household had retired, but as with most great houses, someone was always stirring. The liaisons had not gone unnoticed and Elizabeth tolerated it only with the knowledge that soon, her house would return to some semblance of peace. Closing her eyes for a moment, she reflected on the shocked face of the chamber maid when the girl had begged a moment of her time. What had Jane been forced to endure at Netherfield? The sooner Caroline was legally wedded and gone, the better for everyone. Fortunately, it would only be for another few weeks. That much she could bear. Turning to the remaining women, Elizabeth almost laughed as for a moment, she fancied that Caroline’s wedding was a battle, and she was the general leading the charge. Well this was one battle that would produce no losers.

  “Well ladies, I believe that everything is in hand. I only hope that nothing causes a delay for Viscount Adley’s family. They will be bringing the minister.”

  “Was there something wrong with Mr. Pence from Lambton?” Agnes queried.

  “No, it is just a tradition to be married at Edlesmere, by the family vicar. But as the chapel is undergoing repairs, this is a compromise. Ned said he is an old family friend as well.”

  Agnes swallowed hard before daring another seemingly innocuous question. Surely it was not Gideon? She never did discover where her father had arranged to have her former love transferred.

  “Did they say his name?”

  “I am afraid that I did not ask. As it is, they will not be arriving until the day of the ceremony. A bit close for comfort. Darcy says he will do it himself if necessary.”

  To this announcement, a titter of giggles passed among the ladies, Georgiana included. Occasionally needing to serve as a magistrate, Darcy did have the legal ability to perform a wedding, but none could imagine him intoning the words. It was good for all to see Georgiana laugh. When Agnes had arrived at Pemberley without Robbie, her disappointment had been evident. However, Elizabeth, nor Darcy had disclosed the reason for his distance. Not even Agnes knew the real cause for his reluctance to marry Georgiana. But as Robbie had never offered, there was no use in speaking of it. Perhaps the feelings were not as deep as first believed and a bit of time apart would be beneficial for both.

  “I should like to do the flowers, as that has not been considered,” Georgiana volunteered shyly.

  “Oh my! We had completely forgotten. What would a wedding be without them? I am indeed fortunate to have each of you to make this event a success,” Elizabeth replied with relief. No one present wanted a single thing to prevent Miss Bingley’s departure.

  ~TWENTY-SEVEN~

  The day of the wedding arrived with great speed as all were occupied in the final details. Two days prior, Ned Grandby-Jones had returned to Oakwood Hall to prepare for the arrival of his own family as well as make a few adjustments to their wedding trip. Originally planning on spending a week at Oakwood, he changed his mind and arranged for immediate departure to the continent. They would spend a week in Paris befor
e touring various cities in Italy and returning by ship along the Spanish coast. It was fortunate that no political disagreements interfered with the itinerary, for they would be gone some months. By that time, he hoped that Caroline would be expecting their first child. Smiling to himself, he recalled her irritation when notified that he would not continue his nightly attentions until after the wedding.

  “I fear that we must be content to wait. Besides, it is bad luck for me to see you in your wedding clothes before the ceremony, and I rather look forward to the surprise.”

  Caroline sighed, but knew it was no use. Some things must be tolerated for the sake of propriety, not that she truly cared at this point. In the end she would have everything she ever wanted; a home of her own, a handsome man that did not bore her to tears and perhaps most importantly, the control of her own money. Marriage had always seemed more like a purchase, with one person being appraised and bought for an agreed sum. But she would be no man’s prize mare. The previous morning, they had sat with Darcy’s solicitor, formalizing the legal aspects of the marriage agreement. It was amusing to see her brother’s face when he discovered that Ned had not only given her dowry back to her but agreed to some rather irregular changes to the traditional marriage vows.

  “Darling Crispin is not the type of man to demand the practice such archaic traditions. He trusts me implicitly. Besides, the expectation for a woman to obey her husband at all times is ridiculous, especially if he is wrong.”

  Ned rolled his eyes at the use of his proper name, but supposed he would get used to it and patted her shoulder in agreement.

  “Indeed, do not all of our wives have sound minds? After all, they did have the sense to choose us as husbands. If they are capable of managing households, they should learn to manage their own fortunes. Besides, I have no need of it.”

  Now, as he awaited the arrival of the party from Edlesmere, he wondered at the wisdom of his words. Elizbeth and Jane, having no money of their own when they married, had not the worry of such, but any female children of their unions would. It was something to seriously consider and silently congratulated Caroline for demanding it be so. All too often, women were prey to fortune hunters and once wed, left paupers. It was a fate that had prevented many a marriage from ever being considered. It was this thought that remained in his mind some hours later when his brother later introduced the minister brought from Edlesmere. As his sister-in-law and niece were handed from the carriages, Ned could see an unusually tall man with deep auburn hair and square Germanic features. Wearing the traditional black suit and collar of his calling, Gideon Lawler did the plain clothes justice, as they only accentuated his great height and unusual coloring.

  “Surely you remember Gideon? He did his curacy at Lambton, but has had the living at Edlesmere since my own marriage,” said Samuel Grandby-Jones in explanation.

  “I do. It has been what? Nearly ten years?”

  “Twelve, but who’s counting?” the tall man replied with a sad smile as he shook hands. Their eyes met in private understanding for a moment before continuing the welcome. It was clear that the Reverend Lawler had deep memories of Lambton. Ned would warn him that Agnes would be present at the wedding to allow the man to prepare himself, but there was no time to inform her as well. There had already been enough emotional distress due to his actions, he would spare them both if possible. After seeing his guests to their designated chambers, he suggested they meet again before noon to make the journey to Pemberley. As the ceremony was scheduled for midafternoon, with a late tea afterwards, it gave ample opportunity for refreshment and time for a private word with Gideon.

  Once alone, formalities were disregarded as the two men relaxed in the confines of the library. Ned offered his old friend a stiff drink, but it was politely refused. Indulging his own need, he poured a double Scotch before returning to his seat.

  “I haven’t touched any drink in years. It is expected for one in my position and besides, I once feared allowing its power to erase pain, if only temporary, to control me. I prefer to live with whatever life challenges come my way with calm sobriety, but I have a feeling that your need for counsel is not about your forthcoming marriage.”

  “No, I am afraid not. Caroline and I will not have an easy life together, that is to be sure, but I do love her. She has great passion for living and a temperament that borders on malice, but we are well suited.”

  Gideon Lawler raised an eyebrow at Ned’s description of his future wife, but remained silent. At one time he was willing to risk everything for love, foolishly so. It had nearly ruined his life but he would do it again if given the chance.

  “It’s Agnes… she will be at the wedding. Young Robbie is now Earl. Their father passed on not quite a year ago.”

  Gideon swallowed hard and stared at the amber liquid that remained in Ned’s glass. The urge to empty it was nearly overwhelming, but his composure would not be broken.

  “She is well? I presume she has long since married.”

  “Yes and no… Agnes never married. I don’t think she ever forgot you. I know she never forgave her father, despite giving the best years of her life in caring for him until he died. Now she spends her time interfering with Robbie’s happiness.”

  The knowledge was hardly a comfort. It would have been far easier to politely shake hands when introduced to her husband and turn away, putting some closure on his life. But to see her again, unmarried and at the wedding of another was excruciating. It was all his fault. He should have been man enough to tell her father that Agnes and he had been intimate and should marry. Or, they should have run to Scotland and married without his consent. But he had been weak, and worried about his own future. The church would not have tolerated such behavior and he would have been dismissed instantly. That pride had cost him everything that mattered. Oh, he had done quite nicely with the arrangement. The living at Edlesmere was a comfortable one, consisting of endless visits to the elderly and trite Sunday sermons, but it was all a sham. He was a disgrace as a priest and a man. How could he face Agnes after running away?

  ~TWENTY-EIGHT~

  Gideon Lawler had not much time to contemplate what he would do. The hours seemed to evaporate as Ned changed the subject to more mundane topics. But, by the time came to leave for the wedding Gideon felt that no time had passed since he had left Lambton. With as many butterflies in his stomach as the groom, he rehearsed the standard marriage ceremony vows, reminding himself to omit the part about obedience, wishing he was saying them to Agnes. Perhaps he should avoid her altogether? Lord Edlesmere and Lady Annabelle had not planned to stay more than a few days at Oakwood hall. With Ned and Caroline leaving immediately for France, they would go on to their London residence for some weeks. He would return to his empty vicarage alone and resume his regular duties. In reality, no one would notice if he left right after tea. A few polite exchanges of conversation, enough to be seen and noted, then an easy escape. Yes, that was what he would do. He need only get through the ceremony without fixing his eyes on Agnes.

  However, as with all well laid plans, something generally arises to change them. Upon arrival at Pemberley, Elizabeth Darcy insisted upon making introductions of the newcomers to all members of the bridal party, save Caroline. The bride was not to be seen until the music began.

  “We cannot have future family meeting as strangers after the wedding. There is nearly an hour yet, plenty of time to get acquainted,” she insisted with a smile as she welcomed Lord and Lady Edlesmere to Pemberley.

  Entering the drawing room, Gideon found it filled with ladies in matching gowns of varying shades of rose. All were fair and beautiful, but his eyes instantly went to the slender form of Agnes Brackleburn. Her back was turned as they entered, but he would know her anywhere. A garland of matching pink roses had been entwined in her signature loose braid, only accentuating the Viking ancestry that had grown stronger in her features when she faced him. Despite her smile and perfect curtsey, Gideon felt as if he were preparing to fight an aven
ging Valkyrie instead of greeting an old acquaintance. But they had been far more than acquaintances… far more than friends, and from the pain in her eyes that mirrored his, she had not forgotten him either.

  “How nice to see you Reverend Lawlor,” Agnes said flatly.

  “Lady Agnes,” he stammered with a short bow before going silent, his composure threatened to shatter completely as Robbie Brackleburn arrived to stand by his sister’s side. The younger man’s face bore a mixture of caution and amusement as he watched the interaction between his sister and the priest.

  “Gideon, I heard you were to officiate.”

  “Lord Brackleburn…”

  “Oh, don’t be so formal. We are old family friends, is that not so Agnes?”

  Agnes Brackleburn shot her brother an icy look. He was enjoying their discomfort. It was time that Agnes sorted out the ghosts of her past, and he would play a part in seeing it done.

  “Will you be staying in the area long? If so, perhaps you will consider staying at Piper’s Bend for a few days as our guest?”

  “I…I was planning on returning to Edlesmere immediately. Parish business.’

  “Surely they can spare you longer. I doubt ministers get many holidays.”

  Before he could answer to the negative, they were joined by Lord Edlesmere and Darcy. Having overheard the request, Samuel Grandby-Jones insisted upon his acceptance.

  “That is so true. Gideon never takes a holiday. I insist you stay as long as you like. Besides, Edlesmere is quite dull this time of year. They will survive without you and probably rejoice a Sunday off.”

  Having no polite options open, Gideon was forced to accept, but he felt the eyes of every man present upon him. Did they all know about his past with Agnes? A dull flush of red threatened to creep up and he dug a finger under his clerical collar in an effort to diffuse the embarrassment. It was only the sound of the great hall clock striking three that brought relief. It was time for the wedding and all attentions would be focused on the bride and groom. Making excuses of needing to take his place, Gideon once again left Agnes standing alone.