Elizabeth Bennet's Deception: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary by Regina Jeffers

shortly after we separated yesterday afternoon.”
    “And you have only the news of Colonel Fitzwilliam’s involvement to report?”
    A gentleman could spend a lifetime learning the many facets of Elizabeth’s expressive countenance. Darcy shrugged the inevitable.
    “In truth, I thought to ask your uncle to accompany me on a journey across town. I went through my correspondence to find the directions for Georgiana’s previous companion. If you recall from my letter, Mrs. Younge was the one who manipulated my sister into accepting Mr. Wickham’s attentions. The woman now owns a boarding house. I hoped Mrs. Younge knew something of Wickham’s whereabouts in London.”
    Elizabeth rose upon hearing his explanation.
    “Then I shall retrieve my bonnet and cloak.”
    Darcy’s gaze narrowed.
    “When did I say you would be traveling with me? My destination is not an area of London for genteel ladies.”
    A spark of annoyance flared in Elizabeth’s eyes.
    “First, I am not easily intimidated, Mr. Darcy, so do not speak to me of what you deem proper for my sensibilities.”
    “I am well aware of your determination, Ma’am,” he said in amused contrition. Darcy found himself decidedly vexed by her stubbornness; yet, at the same time, he thought her decided manner remarkably admirable. “That particular fact does not change my opinion of your involvement in this venture.”
    “You have not considered all the ramifications, Sir,” she reasoned passionately. “What if Mr. Wickham took residence at Mrs. Younge’s establishment?” Elizabeth reasoned. “Because of your history, Wickham will refuse to speak to you, or he will leave Town before my uncle can press him into acting responsibly.”
    Darcy’s eyebrow lifted in dismay. He did not know whether to be offended by Elizabeth’s insinuation that Darcy might lose control of his emotions or to know a renewal of his estimation of Elizabeth Bennet as the most remarkable woman of his acquaintance. She would truly make him complete if Darcy could finally claim her loyalty.
    “I assure you, Miss Elizabeth, I am quite capable of dealing with Mr. Wickham in your behalf. I do not believe Mr. Wickham will be at Mrs. Younge’s house: He would never be so obvious.”
    Without further argument, Elizabeth started for the door.
    “Your logic holds no sway with me, Mr. Darcy. I will leave Uncle a note as to our purpose.”
    “And what if I depart before you return, Miss Elizabeth?” Darcy challenged.
    Elizabeth turned to smile at him in rueful humor, and Darcy found her tenacity beguiling.
    “Then I shall follow you in a let hack,” Mr. Darcy.”
    Darcy held no doubt Elizabeth would try.
    “I have not shared Mrs. Younge’s directions with you.”
    For a brief second, Elizabeth’s confidence faded, but a squaring of her shoulders announced her determination knew no retreat.
    “I will be only a moment, Sir.”
    With that, she disappeared into the bowels of the Gardiners’ house. Darcy looked after her. Elizabeth Bennet’s willingness to risk everything to protect her family reinforced his belief she was his perfect mate.
    “Absolutely bewitching,” Darcy murmured, “and I hold no desire to break the lady’s spell.”
    * * *
    Darcy nestled Elizabeth closer to his side as they approached the run-down boarding house. They left his coach a block removed to avoid Mrs. Younge’s spying a finer carriage in the area and sending up an alarm. As they approached, Darcy spoke softly for Elizabeth’s ears only.
    “Mrs. Younge will not be pleased of my appearance on her doorstep. I must warn you I will negotiate hard with the woman. You must not beg her for the information we seek for Mrs. Younge will operate to take advantage of your desperation.”
    “You wish me to be docile?” Elizabeth asked archly.
    Darcy smiled down at her upturned countenance.
    “You are to assume Miss Bennet’s personality for the next hour.”
    Elizabeth rolled her eyes heavenward.
    “Why did I not