Victoria Connelly - Dreaming of Mr. Darcy

Peggy Sullivan leant forward in an attempt to get the pillows behind her just right.

Its my eyes I miss the most, she said to the young woman sitting by the side of the bed. I wasnt too bothered when my legs went. I was too tired to walk around much anyways. I didnt even mind when my right ear went last month, but I do miss my eyes.

The young woman leant forward and patted her hand.

Its so kind that you come and read to me, Kay, Peggy said.

Its my pleasure.

It cant be easy for you, my dear. Coming here, I mean.

Kay looked at Peggy for a moment before answering. It wasnt at first. I kept seeing Mum everywheresitting in the conservatory gazing out at the gardens or serving everyone tea in the sitting room.

We all miss her so much. She always loved taking care of everybodyjust like you do.

Kay nodded. She used to call me Little Mother when I was growing up.

Peggy smiled, but then her expression changed to one of bemusement. How you came to work at Barnum and Masons, Ill never understand.

It was the first job I was offered, Kay said with a shrug. I took it thinking Id be there only a little while. I was hoping

Someone would discover your paintings, Peggy interrupted.

Yes.

Theyre taking their time, I must say.

They were silent for a moment, and Kay looked out of Peggys window. She was on the ground floor of The Pines and overlooked the communal garden, which was shivering under a layer of early snow. The poor Cyclamen were doing their best to survive, but one more fall of snow, and theyd be buried alive, Kay thought.

Buried. The word sent a shiver through her. It had been only a month since her mother had been buried in the local churchyard after a brief but devastating illness. Shed been sixty-sevennot old by todays standardsand Kay missed her more than she could say. Perhaps that was why she was spending time with Peggy. Shed met her whilst visiting her mother, and the two of them had clicked. Both had a profound love of the novels of Jane Austen, and when Kay had discovered that Peggy was blinda fact that shed kept marvellously hiddenKay had offered to read to her.

Peggy never seemed to have any visitors, and Kay couldnt quite give up visiting The Pines.

I do wish I could see your paintings, Peggy suddenly said.

I do too, Peggy.

Tell me about your new ones.

Ive got only one new one. Im afraid works been a bit hectic, and

That ratbag Roger still working you late?

Kay grinned.

I remember him when he was a lad. I knew his father. Lived in my road. Bulliesboth of them. You mustnt let him push you around, Kay.

I dont.

Peggy nodded. Because Ill have words with him, if hes bullying you. Ive got one of them portable phone jobbies. Itll only take one call.

Its all right. Theres no need to call him.

Peggy shifted forward, and Kay got up to rearrange her pillows.

So, tell me about your picture.

Kays eyes took on a wistful look as she thought about her latest painting.

You know the last chapter of Persuasion we read together? That moment when Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth see each other for the first time since he went away?

I love that scene, Peggy said, her face glowing with the pleasure of remembering it.

I chose that moment when Jane Austen writes a thousand feelings rushed on Anne.

Wonderful! Peggy said with enthusiasm.

And a bow, a curtsey passed.

Yes, yes! Peggy said. I can see it now. All those pent-up emotions they still have for each other. Oh, I wish I could see it.

Ive always wanted to capture that moment when their eyes meet, Kay said, tucking a strand of toffee-coloured hair behind her ear. Its fleeting, yet so much happens in it.

Which scene are you illustrating next?

One of the Lyme Regis ones. I want to paint that wonderful seafront with the sweep of the Cobb. I only wish I could visit it.

Youve never been to Lyme?

No, Kay said, her eyes taking on a dreamy look again. Ive always imagined myself living by the sea one day, and I think Lyme would be just the place to be.

Then what are you doing in landlocked Hertfordshire? Peggy asked. I mean now that you dont have any family ties.

My jobs here. My house is here.

Oh, rot! Peggy said. I know its a terrible clich, but if you dont take charge of your life, nobodys going to do it for you. Think of Anne Elliot and all those years she wasted.

But Ive got a mortgage to pay. Im kind of stuck here.

Peggys mouth narrowed. I dont like to hear such excuses. If you want to live near the sea then you should. Its as simple as that.

I wish it were, Kay said. I really wish it were.