A Governess for Christmas: A Pride and Prejudice Holiday Variation

By Lucy Cadeau

Journey to Pemberley this Christmas in a story previously only available in 'Christmas with the Darcys' anthology!

 

As the Christmas season approaches, Elizabeth Bennet finds herself feeling less than thrilled about the holiday. With three of her sisters now married and gone, she is left at home in Longbourn with only her parents and Kitty for company. However, when her Aunt Gardiner informs her of a job opportunity as a governess for two young boys in Lambton, Elizabeth jumps at the chance to escape the dreary atmosphere of home.

 

Upon arriving in Lambton, Elizabeth is surprised to discover that the wealthy gentleman in question is none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy, the man who once insulted her at a ball in Hertfordshire. Despite her initial reservations, Elizabeth quickly warms to the charming and handsome Darcy, who has taken on the role of guardian to his two precocious wards, Joseph and Nicholas.

 

As Elizabeth settles into her new role as governess, she finds herself growing increasingly fond of the mischievous twins and their doting guardian. However, when an unexpected outside force threatens their budding happiness, can the magic of the holiday season save them?

 

Fall in love with ODC all over again at Pemberley this Christmas today!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Daisy Chain Publishing
• Release date: Dec 10, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215987636

Book preview

One

Icould not help but feel a sense of desolation as I gazed upon the snow-covered gardens of Longbourn. The frosty December air settled heavily upon Meryton, and with it, the melancholy realization that three of my dear sisters had been swept away into the throes of matrimony, leaving behind only Kitty and myself to endure the coming festivities.

Christmas was fast approaching, and while our home was always filled with joy and laughter during the season, I found that my heart yearned for the presence of my beloved sisters, especially Jane. My days were now spent in the company of my dear parents and Kitty, who had grown more agreeable since Lydia's departure. Yet, I could not escape the gnawing dissatisfaction that plagued me with every passing day.

Elizabeth! called my mother from within the house, her voice shrill enough to pierce through the cold air. A letter has arrived for you!

Curiosity piqued, I hastened from the kitchen doorway, smoothing out my skirts as I made my way to the parlor where my mother eagerly waved the missive in the air. 

Here, my dear, she exclaimed, thrusting it into my hands. It is from your Aunt Gardiner!

Shivering from the sudden warmth of the fire, I carefully broke the wax seal and unfolded the parchment. As I skimmed the neat lines of my aunt's penmanship, I could not help but feel a stirring of anticipation. She wrote of a most intriguing opportunity - a position as governess in Lambton, a respectable village where they often stayed on holiday. The family sought someone to fill the post immediately, and my aunt believed that I was well-suited for such an occupation.

Read it aloud, Elizabeth, urged my father, who had been observing the proceedings from his armchair by the fire.

With a nod, I cleared my throat and recited the contents of the letter, my voice growing more animated as I conveyed the urgency of the situation. The prospect of leaving Longbourn and embarking upon a new chapter in life was both thrilling and daunting. But with Jane's laughter now absent from the halls and the unspoken understanding that Kitty may soon follow our sisters into marriage, I could not deny the appeal this opportunity presented.

Imagine, a governess! exclaimed Kitty, her eyes wide with disbelief. Would you truly consider it, Lizzy?

I glanced at my sister, then at my parents, whose expressions were inscrutable, and felt a quiet resolve settle within me. 

Yes, I replied, my voice steady and determined. I believe I shall.

Elizabeth, my dear, my mother began, her eyes filled with worry and a hint of indignation, you cannot seriously mean to leave us here at Longbourn, especially not at Christmastime!

Pray do not be alarmed, Mama. However, I believe it would be best for all of us if I were to accept this position. At least for a time, to see if it is a life to which I am well suited.

My father, who had been quietly observing our discussion, cleared his throat and spoke up in my defense. 

It may very well be a good opportunity for Lizzy, my dear. She has never shied away from hard work or responsibility, and this position might afford her a chance to make her own way in the world.

Mr. Bennet, how can you say such things? My mother's voice cracked with emotion as she addressed him, her hands wringing