A Perilous Match

Chapter 19

Ashburn Court, Dorset

“I have not been to Ashburn in such a very long time,” Georgiana declared.

Elizabeth smiled at her husband, who was seated beside her as the carriage rolled up the long driveway to Ashburn Court. They had just passed the gatehouse, and already Elizabeth was in awe of the place. It was grand, akin to Chatsworth or Blenheim.

“The grounds are magnificent,” Elizabeth marvelled as she gazed out of the carriage window. “I daresay they are even larger than Netherfield.”

“Indeed they are,” Fitzwilliam replied, a touch of pride in his voice. “But not as vast as the ones at Pemberley.” He smiled at her, his eyes twinkling. “I do rather boast about Pemberley, do I not?”

“And rightfully so,” Georgiana interjected. “It is, after all, one of the grandest estates in the north. I believe it to be almost the finest in the entire realm, though I may be biased, having been born and raised there.” She turned to Elizabeth with a warm smile. “I cannot wait for you to see it.”

“Nor can I,” Fitzwilliam added, the warmth in his voice unmistakable. He shifted in his seat, so that his knee rested against Elizabeth’s. The connection, slight as it was, brought a comforting sense of closeness that she found rather wonderful.

Over the past few weeks, they had grown increasingly close, and while Elizabeth felt a tinge of sadness at leaving behind the familiarity of Darcy House, which had become her refuge since they married, she was also eagerly anticipating seeing Ashburn.

“When Jane arrives, the three of us must venture into the village,” Georgiana said. “It is quite lovely—so quaint—and there is a sweet shop you will simply adore.”

“I believe it will do Jane good to be away from London for a little while,” Elizabeth replied thoughtfully. “She may find some peace of mind.”

“Indeed,” Georgiana agreed. “It cannot be easy for her, being caught between our cousin Richard and Mr Bingley. Though it seems clear to anyone who observes Jane and Mr Bingley together that they share a special understanding.”

Fitzwilliam shook his head when both women looked at him. “I have learned my lesson—this is between Miss Bennet and her two suitors.”

Fitzwilliam had impressed her time and again with how much he had evolved since the early days of their acquaintance. He valued her opinions and advice and did his utmost to be respectful of her perspectives. Though Elizabeth often found herself curious about which suitor her husband deemed more suitable for her sister, she had refrained from asking, knowing it was not their concern. Whoever Jane ultimately chose, it was clear that each gentleman came with his own merits and faults. A respite in the countryside would provide Jane with the clarity she needed.

Even if Jane were still in London, she would not have to contend with both gentlemen, for Colonel Fitzwilliam has gone to Kent to call upon his aunt—a long-overdue visit.

“There is the house,” Fitzwilliam said, his voice betraying his excitement. He pointed out the window to a home that exuded grace and charm. Ashburn Court stood before them, a grand Tudor-style manor house with its tall chimneys, mullioned windows, and ivy-clad walls—a perfect embodiment of elegance and history.

The carriage came to a stop, and Fitzwilliam exited first, offering his hand to Georgiana, who had been seated opposite them, and then to Elizabeth. As he helped her down, Elizabeth noted how his hand lingered on hers, his touch more intimate than usual. She found she did not mind it in the least.

“Here we are,” he said, gazing at the estate with a look of true admiration. “While I am a northern gentleman born and bred and Pemberley has my heart, I daresay this is one of the finest estates in the south.”

“I can hardly believe this is now one of our homes. I cannot wait to explore the gardens,” Elizabeth marvelled.

“You should do so this evening,” Georgiana suggested enthusiastically. “Are not the gardens here simply marvellous at sunset, Fitzwilliam?”

Fitzwilliam nodded at once. “Indeed they are. Will you do me the honour of allowing me to show you the estate?” His voice held a note of eager anticipation. “I know Jane will be here in a few days, and you will wish to explore with her, but I daresay it is better to know your way around beforehand.”

Elizabeth needed no further persuasion. She was already looking forward to exploring the gardens with him but chose not to reveal her excitement just yet. Instead, she allowed herself to be swept up in the moment, relishing the thought of discovering every corner of Ashburn with her husband by her side.