Her Summer at Pemberley Page 2

  When Mr. Bennet’s name was called for the carriage and she and her father stood to leave, the young man and his companion rose. As the strangers passed her table, the young man gave her a warm smile.

  This time she dared to meet his eyes. He held hers fast until his companion chuckled and nudged him on. A flame of energy surged through her and she could scarce catch her breath.

  Once outdoors, Kitty approved how the young man leapt lightly onto a fine bay. She envied the freedom with which men could ride, and admired his adept horsemanship as much as his good looks. He calmly managed his steed as it danced in anticipation of being off. Whilst his companion mounted a sturdy chestnut, the young man looked at her and touched his hat in an unexpected salute.

  Her heart pounded and she dropt a slight curtsey, unsure if that was entirely proper as they had not been introduced. She watched until the two riders turned onto the west road and out of sight.

  There had been no young men to meet at Longbourn of late. Surely society would be livelier at Pemberley? Diversions of any kind would be an improvement.

  Kitty’s father handed her into the carriage. They were off with a lurch and soon turned onto the west road themselves.

  Landscapes slipped to second place in her thoughts, and the remainder of the journey passed in a twinkling.

  Chapter Three

  Lizzy awaited them on the portico, her trim figure dwarfed by the stately home. As the carriage entered the sweep, Mr. Bennet’s face filled with joy on beholding his favorite daughter. Everyone knew Lizzy was his favorite. Kitty could be content with that, if she herself were not such an unfavorite.

  Kitty had always enjoyed Lizzy’s company, when she could get it. Her older sister was lively and full of wit, although at times her remarks were a trifle wicked. Often this was amusing; but sometimes Kitty felt sorry for the person on the receiving end, unless it was Lydia—the opinions of others never bothered Lydia. Kitty herself had no wish to be out of Lizzy’s favor, or the target of her sharp tongue. Kitty recalled how Lizzy had often taken long walks at Longbourn, especially when out of humor. Perhaps they could share long walks at Pemberley?

  There! It was the beginning of a plan. She would learn about landscapes from Mr. Darcy, and would take long walks with Lizzy. It would make for a fine new beginning.

  The carriage rolled to a stop. Kitty gasped when Mr. Darcy himself stepped forward to hand her out. Gingerly she took his hand and stole a quick glance—his expression was more relaxed than she remembered. He was monstrous handsome.

  “Welcome to Pemberley, Miss Bennet. I hope you will find your stay pleasant and rewarding.” He gave her a gentleman-like smile and nodded before turning to address her father.

  The majesty of Pemberley rose before her. When they first entered the grounds she had admired the rolling hills and groves of timber. She turned to survey the sweeping panorama, dazzling in all the glory of spring—as if the place itself was wrapping her in welcoming arms.

  “Well, what do you think?” It was Lizzy’s voice behind her. Kitty turned and the sisters exchanged a warm embrace.

  “It’s so … enormous! And beautiful,” Kitty remarked, finding herself almost at a loss for words. “I am very happy to see you, Lizzy. Thank you for inviting me. An escape from Longbourn is most welcome.”

  “I was not surprised by your letter, Kitty, and had been expecting—even hoping—for it for some time. Jane and I have had some discussion about your situation and wish to help you in any way possible.” Leaning in close, she whispered, “We know there is not much help for you at Longbourn.” As she drew back, her eyes sparkled with mischief.

  The sisters linked arms and mounted the steps to the grand entry hall.

  “Now, I’ve assigned Poppy as your personal maid—your lady’s maid, if you please—while you are with us. I think you two will get on, and she is very talented at hair arrangements. She will show you to your rooms and help you settle in. Once you are changed and rested, come down for tea. Cook makes lovely cakes. I have her cut them in tiny pieces so I can sample each one without doing too much damage to my figure.” She kissed Kitty’s cheek and then turned to welcome her father, who was still talking with Mr. Darcy about the journey.

  Poppy came forward and curtsied. She was a strawberry blonde, about the same height and age as Kitty, with a sprinkling of freckles across her nose. The two exchanged shy smiles and Kitty followed her upstairs.

  They entered a sitting room with a large window overlooking a far meadow framed by wooded hills. The walls were papered with a dramatic design of vines and peacock feathers. The room held a small table with two chairs, a settee, and a writing desk. All this for herself? In the adjoining room stood a large canopied and curtained bed, along with closets and cupboards, a pair of chairs, and a dressing area that included an elaborately mirrored table for her toilette.

  Kitty sank into a chair, set her reticule aside, and removed her pelisse.

  Poppy stepped up to take the items.

  Kitty eyed her, unsure what to say or do.

  “Thank you. I have not had a lady’s maid before. At my home, five sisters shared one maid, who was also the housemaid. I think you will find me quite independent in my daily habits, Poppy, unlike finer—”

  A knock at the door interrupted their discussion. Poppy opened it and instructed the footmen where to place the trunks.

  When they had done and left, she asked, “And what would ye wish to do first, Miss?”

  Kitty felt a little uncomfortable being in charge. She had never had anyone to bid about. Lydia had been her younger sister, but Lydia was anything but biddable.

  Kitty’s present desire was clear.

  “First I shall remove my dusty traveling boots and clothing and have a glass of water. Then I should like to wash and put on a fresh gown. Perhaps you could pull a few of my gowns from my large trunk?”

  Poppy poured water into the washing basin while Kitty removed her traveling clothes. After completing her ablutions, Kitty turned to the bed where three of her gowns were smoothed and laid out.

  “Which do you think best for tea, Poppy? I have not spent much time in such a fine house. Oh! Will I be expected to change again for dinner?”

  “The sprigged muslin, I think, for tea. ’Twill bring out yer blue eyes. Aye, Mistress always changes for company dinner.”

  It dawned on Kitty that Lizzy’s daily life had changed a great deal now that she was married. Maybe there was more to being mistress of Pemberley than Kitty had guessed.

  “I wonder if Lizzy considers me ‘company’?” Kitty mused aloud. “I will ask her at tea. I think she will find it diverting.”

  Kitty laughed, and Poppy hid her own smile behind her hand.

  ≈

  Soon Kitty descended the stairs. Poppy had done a fine job in a short time, brushing and pulling Kitty’s soft brown hair back and up, then working it into a figure eight at the top of her head, with fresh curls around her face. In her sprigged muslin with blue trimmings and green overlay Kitty felt like the spring air itself. It was late afternoon and the weather fine. Perhaps there would be time for a walk about the grounds?

  As she entered the drawing room, her cheeks filled with color when Mr. Darcy stood and nodded acknowledgement of her presence.

  Her father bumbled to his feet, begrudgingly following Mr. Darcy’s example.

  Kitty dropt a curtsey and stifled a giggle; her father had never acknowledged her entering or leaving a room in her life, unless it had been at his angry order. Her eyes met Lizzy’s, which were alight with amusement.

  The journey itself was still under discussion and Kitty waited for an opportune moment to ask Mr. Darcy about the different landscapes in Derbyshire. When she put forth her question, her father rolled his eyes and reached for another piece of cake.

  Seeing Mr. Bennet’s reaction, Mr. Darcy’s eyes widened but his countenance concealed any emotion.

  Poor Mr. Darcy. Always needing to keep his feelings and expressions in check
. Kitty supposed it a necessary part of being master of a great estate.

  Mr. Darcy turned to Kitty. “Many of the peaks hereabouts are made of limestone, and that one you saw near the Red Lantern contains a great cave. There are more than a few underground caverns, and even some underground rivers. The River Derwent, which flows past Pemberley here, is the longest river in Derbyshire and forms the backbone of this county.”

  “We saw the river as we approached the house,” Kitty said, delighted with such a detailed reply. “I am eager to explore the countryside and make discoveries. That is, if allowed …” Her voice fell. Was such enthusiasm too childish?

  Lizzy’s eyes twinkled merrily and Mr. Darcy’s were lit with pleasure.

  “I welcome your enthusiasm for exploring, Miss Bennet,” he assured her. “You may plan on many outings and excursions during your visit.”

  Even Mr. Bennet’s stormy countenance could not dampen Kitty’s keenness now that she had secured Mr. Darcy’s support on the subject.

  “There are many volumes in the library that you may find of interest,” he continued. “Tomorrow after breakfast I shall give you a personal tour, Miss Bennet; and you are welcome to use the library at any time.”

  “Thank you, I am much obliged. I wonder … please, can you call me Kitty? I find ‘Miss Bennet’ so formal in my sister’s house.” She hoped her request was not impertinent.

  “As you wish. And please call me Fitzwilliam or, as my sister calls me, ‘brother.’ By the bye, Georgiana returns from London in two days and will be in residence here for the summer. I sincerely hope you two will find pleasure in each other’s company. Georgiana is delighted to have Elizabeth here.” He beamed at Lizzy, then looked back at Kitty. “My sister was overjoyed when I told her you would be joining us for an extended stay.” His affection for his younger sibling shone in his face.

  Darcy was much less severe here. He was even friendly. Was this due to his comfort at being in his own home? Or was it due to Lizzy? He was certainly less frightening, by any account.

  Kitty’s shoulders loosened. “I am looking forward, very much, to becoming better acquainted with Georgiana and am quite sure I will cherish her like a sister. She is a little younger than I, but if I am not mistaken there is much I can learn from her about manners and style and accomplishment, as well as about moving in society. I hope we shall be very good friends.”

  As the others conversed, Kitty found herself relaxing into the rhythm of polite conversation. She had thought it would feel stiff and artificial but discovered that, when surrounded by others who were polite yet genuine, it felt quite natural.

  “Pray, Lizzy, how shall I dress for dinner? Poppy says you dress when entertaining company, but shall you consider me company?”

  Lizzy raised a brow. “It is true we dress more formally for dinner when we have guests. Whilst you and Papa are both here, I think we shall dress for company. But once Georgiana is home, I believe we shall adopt family dress. Would you agree, my love?” she asked, looking at Darcy.

  “I see nothing wrong with what you propose, Elizabeth. You are the mistress of Pemberley and we shall all follow your commands on dress and dining. As long as I agree with them, of course,” he said with a wink.

  Lizzy looked diverted. Was it because his answer was agreeable, or because he had actually made a joke?

  Lizzy poured tea for Kitty, and when she passed the plate of cakes her way whispered, “Do try the chocolate ones; they are positively sinful!”

  After the tea was drunk Lizzy addressed the group. “The weather is lovely, and I greatly desire a walk. Papa, would you and Fitzwilliam accompany Kitty and myself across the grounds? Are you too tired from your journey? I thought we might stroll in the direction of the orchards and enjoy the blooms.”

  “My dear, I would welcome the exercise after rattling around in the carriage for so long. Let us walk now.”

  Lizzy sent a maid to fetch shawls, bonnets, and half boots for herself and Kitty. The items were delivered promptly and soon the ladies joined the gentlemen on a gravel pathway. From Pemberley’s main entrance, which faced south, the group headed mostly west, although the path meandered in an inviting way.

  A light breeze brushed her cheek. Kitty was bursting with curiosity about her new setting.

  “I am eager to discover all of Pemberley’s beauties, and learn the histories and stories, come to know the trees and rocks and … well, everything,” Kitty offered, overcome with delight.

  Darcy looked at her with a kind eye.

  “I am honored to share stories and facts about Pemberley with those eager to know them. Many seem impressed, but few ask intelligent or thoughtful questions about the place. I hope, in my enthusiasm, I do not provide too much information; whilst we walk, I cannot see if your eyes grow dull.”

  Lizzy burst into laughter. “We will be sure to tell you, my dear, if you talk to excess—although that is not one of your usual faults.” She gave Darcy’s arm a squeeze and laughed again.

  Darcy turned to Kitty with a subdued smile, but his eyes held a twinkle.

  The ground fell away to the south and west as the walkers progressed; farmlands and orchards revealed themselves in the folds of the land as the contours followed the valley of the River Derwent. Behind the house to the north and east, heavy growths of timber covered the rising hills. To the northwest Kitty could make out a large barn and two long, low buildings. Several green pastures opened between stands of trees.

  Darcy followed her gaze. “You are looking at my stables. I raise horses here, Kitty, and I am very particular about the lines. My breeding program is founded on my renowned sire. Although I have some lovely mares myself, we also bring in others of fine lineage each season. My trainers are excellent, and I myself ride nearly every day.” He looked at Lizzy rather forlornly. “I have been trying to encourage your sister and, although she has a good seat, I believe she lacks the passion to be a truly splendid rider. Do you ride, Kitty?”

  “Now you have hit on her true love!” Lizzy exclaimed.

  Kitty blushed. She was unaware Lizzy knew of her interest and glanced at her with some surprise. How much did Lizzy know about her unorthodox riding activities?

  “Come, Kitty, many times I saw you on horseback as I rambled just as eagerly about the countryside myself—but on my own two feet, as is my preference.” Lizzy gave her sister a knowing look.

  Kitty raised her eyebrows and bobbed her head towards their father, who was some steps away, gazing off to the south.

  Lizzy put a finger to her lips and smiled conspiratorially.

  “I do ride, Fitzwilliam, most eagerly,” Kitty said in a low voice. “We had only the farm and carriage horses, but one gelding in particular was light and spirited enough to ride about the country on fine—”

  “What is this talk of riding about the country?” boomed Mr. Bennet. “Young girls have no business going about on horseback. Do not let her pester you about this, Darcy, or there will be no end to her whining and cajoling.”

  Kitty gasped.

  Lizzy’s eyebrows flew up.

  Darcy himself lifted a brow at Mr. Bennet’s outburst but his calm voice did not betray his feelings.

  “There are several very respectable ladies hereabouts who ride regularly, Mr. Bennet. Lady Drake even rides to the hounds. I have always observed that those with the desire usually have a fine seat, and a way with the beasts as well. I welcome a companion who shares my zeal, Kitty.”

  Mr. Bennet rolled his eyes.

  “Papa,” Lizzy said, “we must also remember that Kitty is no longer a child. As a young lady nearing nineteen, it is time for her to define her passions and pursuits, and refine her skills. It will do her a service as she moves into society.”

  “Into society, is it? Balls and parties and such, I suppose. Well, if that is the plan, I wish you luck. But have a care; the Bennet family cannot withstand another … well, well, just see that she is closely watched. I caution you now, Darcy—my three younger dau
ghters have barely enough sense between them to know the difference between boots and bonnets.”

  Tears of shame stung Kitty’s eyes.

  To her surprise, Lizzy stopped and whirled to face their father, her own eyes flashing.

  Kitty held her breath.

  “Really, Papa, it is highly unfair of you to lump the younger three together like that. Whilst Lydia’s behavior did often set propriety at naught, I recall nothing scandalous about Kitty. You have always been a most considerate father to Jane and me. I do wish you would give Kitty a chance to show her quality.” She looked as if she could go on, but instead pursed her lips and turned back to Darcy, taking his arm and striding ahead.

  Mr. Bennet cleared his throat. “Then you and Darcy may oversee that. Which, I must say, will be greatly to my relief. I believe I am tired of drama and scandal and would much prefer a good book and a finer brandy.”

  In a steady voice, Darcy said, “Thank you, sir; Elizabeth and I are happy for the opportunity to introduce Kitty into society beyond Longbourn. She will be in good company with my sister Georgiana, and I will offer both of them my guidance and protection. And, as always, my library and my finest brandy are available at your command.”

  Mr. Bennet chuckled. “Very well, then. Very well. Are we near to the orchard?”

  Lizzy sighed. “Yes, Papa. Can you not detect the sweetness on the breeze? Just around this hill are some of the apples.”

  A sense of relief flooded Kitty’s heart. Lizzy had come to her aid! And Fitzwilliam, in his way, had also stood up for her. She could scarce believe it.

  Kitty wondered about him. He must be a good man if Lizzy had agreed to marry him. Lizzy was quite particular. The pair did seem amiable and affectionate with each other, by the looks and conversation they exchanged. He was far more personable here than in Hertfordshire. To her surprise, Kitty found she would like to know him better.