Page 208 of What Change Entails

“I have changed my mind—I am coming with you. The ladies can come along with the servants.”

“No.”

Bingley frowned. “You cannot refuse everyone.”

“I can when everyone is wrong.”

“I have business in Hertfordshire too.”

That stopped him.

Bingley straightened, a rare firmness entering his face. “If you ride to Longbourn, then I ride with you as far as Netherfield. Or to Longbourn itself, if you will have me. I have delayed long enough.”

Darcy studied his friend. The easy smile was gone. So was the habit of waiting for permission.

“No.”

Bingley blinked. “No?”

“Please remain and travel with Georgiana.”

A flush rose along Bingley’s cheeks. “Darcy, I cannot delay again. That is precisely how matters came to this pass.”

“This is not the same.”

“It feels remarkably similar.”

Darcy sighed. “If Miss Bennet’s regard has survived these months, a few more days will do little to alter it. If it has not, arriving beside me tomorrow rather than later will not restore it.”

Bingley’s jaw tightened. “That is poor comfort.”

“It is not meant as comfort.” Darcy lowered his voice. “Georgiana cannot remain here, and I will not entrust her journey to anyone else present.”

Bingley’s attention shifted toward the closed hall.

Darcy continued. “Mrs. Annesley will accompany her, but ladies traveling without a gentleman can be attract all sorts of mischief. I require someone we both trust. Someone who will not manage her, speak for her, or make her feel she is a burden.”

Understanding replaced frustration in Bingley’s face.

“You trust me with her.”

“Yes.”

The answer silenced him more effectively than argument.

Darcy stepped closer. “Bring her safely to Netherfield. Give her time to rest. Then go to Longbourn and speak to Miss Bennet properly. Not because I direct you. Because you have decided what you mean to do.”

Bingley looked down briefly, gathering himself. When he raised his head again, the firmness remained.

“I would have gone today.”

“I know.”

“I am not very practiced at waiting for the right reason.”

“No.”

“But I can do this.”