Elizabeth stared at him. I never set out to become a leader. I was simply organizing and coordinating others’ activities. But she could see the wisdom in William’s characterization.
His smile grew a little wistful. “I must confess I occasionally worry that life will be too staid for you—following the excitement of organizing your own rebellion.”
“What makes you think I will not foment rebellion at Pemberley as well?” she said with a pert smile.
He returned a mock scowl. “Because Pemberley’s master is not a tyrant.”
“No, indeed. Although…since you have raised the subject, some of the tenants’ wives have offered suggestions for improvements at Pemberley….” As the new mistress, Elizabeth had viewed it as her duty to familiarize herself with the estate’s families. It had proved to be no small feat since Pemberley was so much larger than Longbourn.
“Have they?” One of William’s eyebrows rose. “Why have I not heard of this before? I am not an ogre. They may approach me.”
“Sometimes it is easier to speak to another woman.”
William took another sip of champagne. “Indeed. I would be pleased to hear their ideas.”
“I will arrange a meeting upon my return.”
The corner of his mouth quirked up in a smile. “What a relief to know you might improve the estate without inducing a rebellion. But will improving Pemberley keep you sufficiently occupied, my dear? You have an active mind.”
“True.” She moved into his embrace, pulling his arms around her waist. “However, I am working on a new project which I believe will occupy much of my time…in approximately seven months…”
William’s arms tightened around her, and he made a wordless cry of delight. “My darling! That is wonderful news.” He bent down to kiss the side of her neck. “Truly you have made me the happiest man in England—or perhaps the entire world.”
Elizabeth leaned into his arms. “Motherhood will not occupy all of my time,” she continued. “I have chosen a new project.”
“Oh?”
She slid from his arms before facing him and taking both his hands in hers. “It is true that the women of England face many other challenges. I plan to address one of them.”
His eyebrows rose. “And that is…?”
“I really believe we should have the right to vote.”
And that was how Elizabeth rendered her husband speechless for five whole minutes at the Bingleys’ wedding breakfast.
The End