Mrs. Darcy and the Soprano's Suitor

An Elizabeth Darcy Adventure #6

By: Carrie Mollenkopf

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

When Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy indulge in a much needed holiday, it is far less than restful. From the opera houses of London to the beaches of Brighton, dangers follow as they attempt to save a new acquaintance.

Read an excerpt from Mrs. Darcy and the Soprano's Suitor.

“Miss Milton! It is Elizabeth Darcy. I trust you are enjoying your stay?”
Turning, the young woman’s countenance broke into a smile, but it was short lived. While the presence of the Darcys was not entirely unwelcome, the sight of the man whose constant presence had been as yet considered coincidental, now drove a dagger of fear in her heart. Clad in simple fisherman’s wear, he was near enough to see his features, but far enough to be unable to cause harm. Catching her eyes directly, the stranger drew a single finger across his throat as he returned her gaze. Trembling, she nearly fell from the precarious wet perch and if not for Darcy’s swift timing, would have been cast into the pounding surf.
“I…I lost my footing. Foolish of me to venture there,” she apologized as Darcy released her.
“I hope we did not startle you, but when we heard your song, I just knew it was you.” Elizabeth explained, giving full evidence of knowledge that the ruse was up.
“So, you know who I am?”
“It was not so difficult, especially after seeing your recent performance. Your voice is quite remarkable. Would you be so kind as to accept an invitation to dinner?”
“I…I couldn’t possibly…” she stammered, still peering beyond the Darcys, the fear evident on her face.
“Perhaps tea, we could meet in some shop? There are many quaint places along the wharf.”
“You are too kind, but I must refuse…my sister…she requires my presence. I could get but a few minutes away. Again, thank you for the rescue, but I must go.”
“Perhaps another time then?” Elizabeth persisted, but was again refused and the Darcys waved as Miss Millhouse clambered over the rocks and up a coastal path. It was only after she disappeared that they turned to retrace their steps. Now, the beach was entirely empty, save for a large bucket and shovel left by the man digging clams, but of him, there was no sign.
“I have a funny feeling about her.”
“Why so? Perhaps her sister is some sort of invalid.”
“I don’t think so. I believe it was another lie and something is terribly wrong. That poor girl is terrified of something…or someone. Did you see how she kept looking past us?”
“Yes, but perhaps we simply bore her? It is possible you know. We might be the most boring people she ever met and could not wait to get away. I am sure that theater people lead far more interesting lives than ours.”
Elizabeth knew that Darcy was only teasing, but he was a practical sort. If Miss Millhouse did not wish to have their company, there was nothing else to be done. But her intuition screamed otherwise. Miss Millhouse was in some sort of trouble, and it was bad enough to refuse help.