Darcy's Temptation by Regina Jeffers Read Free Book Online

some sort of game. Some years it is the deer. Other years it is the rabbits.When there is an abundance, the animals destroy prize vegetation. Why not have a controlled kill of the animals in plenty to regulate the population? We could offer the animals to the tenants on an equal basis. My first inclination is to give them the meat, but it might be better for their self-respect if the tenants pay the estate, either with money or physical labor. They could clear away the brush, plant gardens, repair walls—whatever Mr. Howard needs.”
    â€œInteresting.” Darcy leaned back in his chair to consider his sister’s suggestion. “It would resolve several areas of concern. What do you think, Mr. Howard?”
    â€œThe animals are often killed anyway, but are done so indiscriminately,” he mused. “We could better balance the natural
habitat. I am unsure how to go about this, but I would be pleased to pursue it if you like, Sir.”
    â€œLet us, you and I, look into it, Mr. Howard,” Darcy set forward once again. “Where might we use the staff we already have in place in an efficient manner?”
    â€œYes, Mr. Darcy.” Mr. Howard picked up the account ledgers for the estate.“Is there anything else, Sir?”
    â€œNo, thank you, Mr. Howard.” The man bowed to each of the family members and then exited. Darcy came from around the desk. “Well, Georgiana,” he teased, “I see I can retire tomorrow as Master of Pemberley.”
    â€œDo not tease me, Fitzwilliam. I was shaking throughout that exchange.” Georgiana held out her hands to show him how they twitched.
    Elizabeth came to sit beside her. “Georgiana, you were very mature in your thinking. I was quite impressed.”
    Georgiana still seemed unsure.“Were you, Elizabeth?”
    â€œExceptionally so.” Elizabeth squeezed the girl’s hand.“You and I will make a formidable pair.” Elizabeth looked up and winked at Darcy.
    â€œYou were very insightful,” he added. “Tomorrow, if the weather permits, I would like for the three of us to ride out and begin to examine the estate together.”
    â€œYes, Fitzwilliam.” Georgiana stood and straightened her dress. “I think I will go practice for a while. I promised Anne we would work on some music together. She wants us to play when she and Edward announce their engagement.”
    â€œThen we will see you later, Sweet One,” he said as Georgiana exited.
    Darcy’s attention now turned back to his wife. “Do not look so smug, Mrs. Darcy.” He pulled Elizabeth into his arms. “No one likes a prideful woman,” he whispered into her ear as he kissed the side of her neck.

    â€œNor a prideful man,” Elizabeth added as she allowed her lips to lightly brush against his.
    Darcy breathed in deeply. “Wait here,” he told her as he crossed to close and lock the study door.
    â€œMr. Darcy?” Elizabeth allowed her voice to rise in anticipation.
    Darcy returned to her embrace, basking in the warmth of her affection. “Yes, my Love?”
    An inviting smile convinced Darcy that lifting Elizabeth into his arms and sitting her on his lap would receive her approval. Cradling her there, he first traced her lips, then along the line of her dress, with his fingertips.“Do you love me, Elizabeth?” he murmured in her ear.
    She captured his lips with a demanding response. “How could you think otherwise?”
    Darcy slid his hand up her leg and became intoxicated by the small gasps Elizabeth emitted. The touch of his hand brought a quick rise in her desires; his touch left her wanting more intense sensations.
    â€œFitzwilliam,” Elizabeth could barely speak his name as shudders ran through her body. “You are incorrigible, Sir,” she stammered.
    â€œAnd you are too tempting, my Love.” Darcy slowly removed his hand from her leg.
    Yet Elizabeth was not