Excerpt
This is the excerpt that was featured at the Meryton Press Cover Reveal for A Dutiful Son.
In the wavering illumination of the nearby candle, the lines beneath Papa’s eyes appeared to have deepened. Without doubt, Darcy’s devastating report earlier that day had extracted a heavy toll.
“I spent the afternoon reflecting on the example I set for you and Georgiana. I have made many errors and have done both of you a grave disservice.” Papa’s head dipped, his shoulders slumped.
“You are too severe on yourself. There is no reason to remain mired in the past. Although Wickham attempted an abominable scheme, it failed. He will not bother us again. As for Georgiana, her spirits will rally in time.”
Papa leaned back and held him in a stern gaze. “I will not repeat the mistakes that led to this near disaster, and neither shall you or Georgiana. Although I expect you to be kind in your dealings with those lower in status, you must adhere to class lines. You will avoid associating with anyone outside of our social sphere, and you will help ensure that Georgiana follows suit.”
His jaw tightened. This did not sound like Papa; indeed, his father would retract these words in time.
Until then, could he maintain his association with Charles Bingley? Although considered by many to be a gentleman, his friend’s fortune came from the sale of the late Mr. Bingley’s business. “You know Bingley and I are close. I hope you do not expect me to dissolve that connexion.”
A furrow formed between Papa’s brows. “In retrospect, I ought to have stepped in when you first made his acquaintance. It would be unfair for me to ask you to give him up now. Bingley has been a fine friend to you.”
He relaxed against the chair. “Bingley plans to purchase an estate in the next year or two, and I agreed to advise him. To that end, this October I shall stay at the estate he is leasing in Hertfordshire.”
“I suppose Miss Bingley will act as hostess?” His father rubbed his chin.
“I expect so.”
“It is vital that you do not allow Mr. Bingley or Miss Bingley to believe there is any possibility the lady will one day become your wife.”
The mere suggestion prompted a shudder. Miss Bingley, though attractive and well versed in the manners and customs of the ton, was also disingenuous, vain, and too often unkind. She could not attract his interest even if she had royal blood. “I am certain Bingley has no expectation I should ever offer for his sister.” Miss Bingley’s expectations, though, might be another matter.
“Still, I insist that when you reach London you discuss the matter with Bingley—before you go to Hertfordshire. You had better also make it clear that your friend could never marry Georgiana.”
Darcy swallowed. Of all his friends, he had fancied Bingley might make the best match for Georgie if he remained unmarried when she came out—though he had never shared that thought with anyone.
“Son, did you hear me? There must be no room for misunderstanding.”
“But I—” The unyielding cast in his father’s eyes suppressed Darcy’s ready argument. “Very well, I shall do so.
