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silence for a few moments. Finally he said, “I should have known that you would recognize the source of my reservations. Joseph and his wife’s father have different approaches.”
    â€œI see,” Elizabeth said slowly. “Mr. Joseph possesses some questions of his own.”
    â€œNone that he has voiced,” Darcy said. “However, I have listened carefully to what Mr. Joseph does not say. I have also asked Bingley to hear the man’s proposal, and Charles agrees: Joseph is not completely confident in this transaction.”
    Elizabeth came to sit beside him. “Does Mr. Joseph fear that Mr. Parnell offers a false face, or is Matthew’s objection his dislike for anything but his call to orders?”
    â€œYou have aptly summarized the situation. Matthew Joseph has admitted that he often finds Parnell’s business maneuverings less than ethical. Is that Joseph’s self-righteous pride speaking? We experienced the man’s implacable nature first hand when we sought to bring comfort to Mrs. Joseph at Prestwick’s Portal. Business dealings are never clearly black or white, and Joseph’s character does not easily recognize that shades of gray are sometimes necessary.” He caught Elizabeth’s hand in his and brought the back of it to his lips. “Exclusive control of the rail line is possible, but does that mean that the area will suffer? Parnell and his business partners could control the price of everything shipped on the line, as well as in and out of the Scottish ports.”
    Elizabeth snuggled closer. “The ramifications are that huge? I had not suspected it possible.”
    â€œI am honored that Parnell has sought me out as a partner in this endeavor; yet, my caution stands tall.”
    Elizabeth sighed deeply. “Then it is best that you investigate. At least, you may stay with the Bingleys while away from home.”

    â€œI have spoken to Bingley about his investing in the venture as well. Your sister’s husband is eager to learn more of what is planned.” He stood to lead her to their shared bed. Darcy rarely slept in his own chambers. He had spent a few lonely nights there when Elizabeth first delivered Bennet, but he finally made a pallet on the floor beside her bed because he could not bear their separation. Her steady breathing as she slept brought him an unidentifiable satisfaction. “I suppose that means that you have no desire to join the Bingleys.”
    Elizabeth caressed his jaw line. “I would enjoy our time together, and you are aware that I shall not accept our parting with any degree of contentment. Yet, it is not likely that our houseguests will depart before you. I cannot abandon my family to Pemberley while I trail after my husband, even if I am tempted to do so.” She went on tiptoes to brush her lips over his. “You will need to leave after Kitty and Mr. Winkler’s ceremony.”
    â€œI was considering the day following the nuptials.” He untied her wrapper’s closure and slipped the silky garment from her shoulders.
    â€œI suppose there is no alternative,” she observed as she slid her arms about Darcy’s waist and pulled herself closer. “However, I shall miss your warmth terribly. How shall I sleep without you, Fitzwilliam?”
    Darcy kissed her temple and then allowed his lips to slide slowly across her cheek and down her neck. “I cannot fathom the emptiness,” he murmured.
    â€œAt least, for the cost of a day’s ride to Alpin Hall, you may visit with Georgiana and assuage your fears.” She gasped as his lips sought the soft spot at the base of her neck.
    â€œPerhaps we could finish this conversation in the morning, Elizabeth.” His breathing had become shallow, and his voice was low and sensual.

    She placed her hands on either side of his face. Lifting his chin so she could reach his lips, she pressed her mouth to his.
    As always, his