As they approached the parlour, he heard Mrs. Bennet’s piercing voice lamenting their loss of society, and shuddered as he suddenly remembered the rest of the Bennet family.
***********
Mrs. Bennet sat in the parlour with Jane, Mr. Bingley, and the younger Bennet sisters. Once her family had made her aware of the gentlemen visitors the previous day, she was determined to be the perfect hostess. Her dislike of Mr. Darcy continued unabated, what with his behaviour at the assembly, his comment regarding Elizabeth, and his actions which would certainly lead the family to ruin. How could she be anything but angry with him? However, he was coming to call so there could be some interest on his part, and she would not want to chase him away; not with his rumoured income of ten thousand pounds. Of course it was easier to favor Mr. Bingley with his pleasant, gregarious personality, and she did.
The gentlemen entered and Mr. Bennet approached his wife. “You remember Mr. Darcy, my dear.”
“Of course,” she said stiffly as the gentleman bowed to her and she dipped her chin in response before promptly turning her attention back to her husband. “I am so glad you have finished, Mr. Bennet; but where is Lizzy?”
“She has gone upstairs to refresh herself. She shall be down directly.”
“And what of the constable?”
“He shall perform his duties,” Darcy said matter-of-factly, still annoyed with the man.
Mrs. Bennet glared at him, a bit irritated with his condescending tone. “Well, of course he will. Why would he not?”
Mr. Bennet cleared his throat, “What special treat have you arranged for tea today, Mrs. Bennet?”
Her head swiveled in his direction, surprised at his sudden interest in her teas, but he smiled as he glanced toward Jane and Mr. Bingley. Following his gaze, her countenance brightened and she began to describe the cook’s specialty which “every household in the neighbourhood envied.” Mr. Bennet smiled at Darcy and winked as he took a seat and the latter followed his lead.
Elizabeth entered shortly after, and Mrs. Bennet reprimanded her. “Ah, here you are Lizzy. Mr. Darcy has been waiting!”
Darcy quickly stepped forward and bowed. “It is of no matter. Miss Elizabeth, you did not show me the wilderness area yesterday as you promised.”
Elizabeth smiled knowingly as she asked Jane and Mr. Bingley to accompany them. The other couple quickly agreed and the foursome stepped into the hall to gather their outerwear. As they stepped outside, Elizabeth slipped her hand onto Darcy’s arm. “Was my mother very trying while I was gone?”
She laughed as his jaw dropped in surprise and he searched for a response. “Please, sir, I have lived with her twenty years. There is nothing you could say which would surprise me.” She looked about and, picking a path, led him away from the house. “Her behaviour no longer alarms me, but I realize others are not as inured as I.”
Recovering, he smiled as he surveyed the area. “I have an aunt who would rival her.”
Elizabeth looked up at him, laughter dancing in her eyes. “I sincerely doubt it.”
“You doubt me?” he asked, feigning offense. He suddenly realized he was flirting with her and that he quite enjoyed it. He was pleased to see she had recovered from her interview with the constable and regained her playful spirit.
“Sir, you have only been in my mother’s presence a few minutes.”
He chuckled. “She is but a tabby cat, my Aunt Catherine is a tigress.”
They walked, swapping stories about their most embarrassing family members and laughing. “Your mother is concerned about her daughters and their welfare. That is to be expected. Your father told me of the entail on his estate.”
As there were no surviving male children, at the time of Mr. Bennet’s death Longbourn would pass to a distant male cousin potentially leaving the Bennet ladies homeless if the sisters remained unwed.
Elizabeth blushed. “But must she be so vocal? It can be quite embarrassing when she begins discussing Jane’s prior beau and how she had hoped he would propose. Jane was but fifteen at the time and only Mama believed anything would come of it.”
“Ah, but I can better that. Lady Catherine has been planning my marriage to her daughter since we were in our cradles. She insists it was my mother’s wish as well.”
He laughed, but Elizabeth was suddenly quiet, her hand had stiffened against his arm. He tried to read her face, but her bonnet blocked his view. All he could see was her lower lip which she nibbled nervously. He realized the impact of his words and liked to kick himself for his thoughtlessness.
Stopping, he turned to her, slipped his fingers under her chin, and lifted it to find a worried look in her eyes. Knowing immediately the direction of her thoughts, he gently rubbed his thumb across her chin, tugging her lip free from its tortures. “Fear not that this … situation … is ruining any of her plans.”
Suddenly aware of his forwardness, he allowed his hand to fall and began walking again, speaking more seriously than before. “I have never had any intention of marrying my cousin. Aunt Catherine says it was a wish of both her and my mother but, suspiciously, it was never relayed to me until after my mother had passed.”
Elizabeth smiled nervously and looked away as he placed his hand over hers, which had remained on his arm. “I suppose it is disrespectful for me to speak so of my aunt.”
“No more than I, sir, and my mother is but a few yards away.” She laughed nervously.
He chuckled and patted her hand. “Perhaps we should change the subject.”
Never one for melancholy, she smiled brightly and quickly agreed. “Yes, perhaps you are correct. Tell me more of your sister. How old is she?”
Darcy began speaking of Georgiana, her accomplishments, and his hopes that she would return to her former self. “I hope you do not mind, but I have written and invited her to join me at Netherfield.”
“Why would I mind? I look forward to meeting her.”
“I am not certain she will accept. She is suspicious of Miss Bingley’s friendship, as she has every right to be.” Darcy frowned as he thought of his friend’s clawing, obnoxious sister.
“I have not had much contact with Miss Bingley, but her speech does not appear to be sincere.”
Darcy laughed harshly. “I fear I would not have said it quite so diplomatically.”
They returned to the house, laughing as they entered the parlour. Mr. Bennet caught his daughter’s eye and arched his brow inquisitively. Elizabeth quickly looked away, trying to school her features, but when she turned back to him the gleam remained in her eye. He smiled and nodded, relaxing for the first time since the night of the assembly. It appeared all would be well for his favourite daughter, and her happiness would secure the remainder of his family.
Chapter Three
Georgiana Darcy sat in the drawing room with her companion, Mrs. Annesley, and her cousin, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. Her guilt for the concern she had caused haunted her, causing her to believe they were watching her every move, waiting for her to make another mistake. Her teacup rattled against the saucer so she quickly set it down and turned toward the window as she blinked back a tear.
Thankfully, at that moment the butler entered with the post on a silver salver and approached her. “This letter has just arrived, Miss. I believe it might brighten your day.”
She glanced at the missive and, recognizing her brother’s handwriting, smiled up at him. “Oh, it is from Fitzwilliam. Yes, thank you, Simmons.”
The elderly servant returned her smile and bowed before leaving the room.
“Well, open it, Georgie. Let us hear what your brother has to say for himself.” The colonel stood and crossed to her side as Georgiana eagerly broke open the seal and quickly scanned the missive. Her initial smile faltered and he saw her distress increase until, by the end, her hand shook visibly. “Come, come, it cannot be so bad.”
“Fitzwilliam says a situation has arisen that requires his presence in Hertfordshire longer than he originally anticip
ated and he wishes me to join him there.”
“Really? Does he give any more details?” Richard leaned forward, attempting to read over her shoulder.
“No, but it sounds as though this situation may cause permanent changes in our lives.” She turned toward him in time to see the colonel’s eyebrows shoot up. “He requests my presence in Hertfordshire that we may discuss it.” Georgiana looked as though she were about to cry as she handed him the letter.
He read it quickly, becoming more intrigued with every line. Darcy appeared to have gotten himself into something, but he was being very mysterious about the details. He found it entertaining that the man who appeared to control all, may finally have been in over his head. Turning back to his young cousin to say as much, his amusement died away at the sight of her pale complexion. “What is it, dear one?”
“What if …? What if …?” She stopped, not wishing to voice her fear.
He knelt at her feet and took her hand in his. “Come now, Georgie. What has you so upset?”
“What if Miss Bingley has finally done it? What if she has trapped him and he has proposed to her?”
The colonel threw back his head, laughing heartily at the idea of his staid cousin being forever bound to that upstart harpy.
His reaction increased Georgiana’s distress. “She has chased him for years and I believe she would try to trap him.”
“Forgive me, Georgie, but you must know your brother will never marry that woman.”
“What if she arranged for them to be caught in a compromising situation?”
He gently rubbed her hands. “Mr. Bingley knows Darcy would not compromise his sister and he would not stand behind her claims.”
His words had a reassuring quality and she felt some of her fear subside. She had not realized Mr. Bingley would support his friend over his sister.
“Do not worry, dear one, I shall respond to Darcy and assure him you will come and I will escort you. I cannot wait to learn what hornet’s nest he has opened. Shall I tell him we will be leaving tomorrow?”
Reluctantly, Georgiana nodded in agreement.
***********
Several days later, Darcy and Charles arrived at Longbourn at their normal hour. The visit followed the now set routine; the gentlemen exchanged pleasantries with the Bennet ladies in the parlour before escaping to the gardens with the lady of their choice. All were thankful the weather remained warm enough so they could enjoy their daily walks.
Elizabeth laid her hand lightly on Darcy’s arm as they stepped outside and turned toward the wooded area. She found she enjoyed their visits; even looked forward to them. It had been a week since the Meryton assembly and Mr. Darcy mostly remained a puzzle to her, but she relished slowly drawing him out. He had a playful side which he only revealed when they were alone, and his rich laughter raised her spirits. His smiles were increasing and she was beginning to forget the proud man who had insulted her at the assembly hall.
Because of their unique situation, they had spoken of many things which would have been considered assuming or impertinent for acquaintances of such a short duration. They had agreed to be open and answer the other’s questions without suspicion or hesitation. For this reason, much had already been said that in a normal relationship may not have become known for years.
In addition to all this, she had learned to recognize the signs of his discomfort and how to put him at ease. “Something is on your mind,” she said as she looked at the trees.
Darcy shook his head in amazement, “How did you know?”
With sparkling eyes, she turned to meet his gaze. “You were quieter than normal, lost in thought.” Leaning toward him, she lowered her voice. “You did not even flinch when Mama questioned you regarding the number of rooms at Pemberley.”
He shook his head, “I did not even notice. Did I respond?”
“Enough for her to change the subject and turn her attention to Mr. Bingley.”
“But not enough to raise myself in her estimation?” he frowned.
“Do not worry about my mother, sir. What is weighing upon you?” she asked as she smiled encouragingly up at him.
Darcy took a deep breath and laid his hand over hers. “I have heard from my sister.”
Elizabeth turned away in an attempt to hide her disappointment. “Miss Darcy does not wish to join you?”
“No, on the contrary, I expect she shall arrive tomorrow,” his hand tightened over her fingers, and Elizabeth turned questioning eyes toward him, expecting him to be more pleased. “My cousin is escorting her,” he said flatly.
“The Colonel?” she asked, surprise clear in her voice.
He nodded pensively.
“And that concerns you? From what you have told me, I thought you were like brothers.”
A smirk crossed his lips. “We are.”
Elizabeth placed her other hand on his and stared at him until he finally met her gaze. “Mr. Darcy, why does this cause you unease?”
He sighed. “I have already shown a poor example of myself. You know I do not perform well for others.”
“But this is your cousin.”
“Yes, and when we are together …” He took a deep breath, “He is so easy going that I look even worse.”
Elizabeth laughed causing him to frown, creases crossing his brow. “Do not worry, sir, to show you off to your best, we must simply turn the conversation to Pemberley or something else that you love.”
His smile began in his eyes and suffused his features. “You have learned how to draw me out.”
Her cheeks coloured as she smiled shyly, “I wonder, sir, if you would not mind a longer walk today so I may share something I love with you.”
He bowed slightly, “Lead the way, my lady.”
Elizabeth looked to see if Jane and Mr. Bingley were still near and caught Jane’s eye. The sisters had already discussed Elizabeth’s plans for the day, so she simply nodded and they fell in step behind her. Darcy and Elizabeth’s pace quickly outstripped the others and soon they were walking alone.
“Has your family received any invitations to dinners or other events?” Darcy asked as he looked about at the surrounding fields. She told him they had not and he nodded contemplatively. “Have they received any visits?”
“Lady Lucas and her daughters visited the morning after the ball. Only my Aunt Phillips has come since then.”
His frown returned. “Have you or your sisters visited anyone?”
She looked at him suspiciously. “We returned the visit to Lucas Lodge, but they were not at home. Why do you ask these questions?”
Darcy glanced about uncomfortably as he explained the Netherfield party had received several invitations and he was concerned when none of the Bennets were in attendance. He was also very much aware of people talking behind his back.
Elizabeth’s cheeks turned crimson and tears stung her eyes. She had known most of these people her entire life and they had turned on her so easily. The couple grew quiet, lost in their thoughts until they reached their destination.
Darcy realized something must be done if Elizabeth’s reputation and her family standing were to be rescued. They had heard little from the Constable. Though he appeared to believe the tale of her attack, there were simply no witnesses who could identify the individual. Not even Elizabeth, as she had not seen him clearly. Darcy had planned on waiting until Georgianna arrived so he could see the ladies together, but every day he delayed brought the Bennet family closer to ruin. More than that, he found his thoughts rarely strayed from Elizabeth. At dinners, he would wonder what witticisms she would voice were she at his side. When the pianos were opened in the drawing rooms, he longed to hear her play and sing; and when the rugs were rolled back, he wished she were there so they could dance. He despised leaving her each day.
As they approached a path leading upward, Elizabeth smiled, though her eyes glistened with unshed tears. “This is Oakham Mount. From the top, you can see a large portion of the area including parts of Long
bourn and Netherfield.”
Darcy looked at the hill and then back down the road in search of the others who were not in sight. Turning to her, he smiled and motioned toward the crest. “Shall we?”
They climbed the path and looked out over the fields while Elizabeth pointed out landmarks he would recognize. She paused and a distant look came over her and he wondered what she was thinking.
“Thank you for sharing this with me; it is beautiful. Do you walk here often?”
Elizabeth nodded and released a soft sigh. “When home becomes too loud and I feel the need to escape.” Her emotions rushed to the surface and she turned to face into the wind in an attempt to hide the tears that threatened to fall. The ribbons from her bonnet bobbed about until they loosened and it slid back, exposing her auburn hair.
Elizabeth reached up to set it straight, but Darcy stayed her hand. Their eyes met and held as they turned to face each other. He slowly leaned toward her and she could feel her pulse race. Tentatively he placed his hands on either side of her face and caressed her cheeks with his thumbs as his fingers slipped into her hair at the nape of her neck. He gazed questioningly into her eyes until she slowly closed them and leaned toward him. Ever so gently, she felt the pressure of his lips on hers and she held her breath, savoring her first kiss.
“Here they are!” Charles said loudly as he and Jane crested the hill just behind Elizabeth.
Darcy stepped back quickly as he dropped his hands and looked over Elizabeth’s head to meet his friend’s gaze. His voice was husky when he responded, “We thought we would have to find you on our way back.”
Charles chuckled as he led Jane to the distant side of the clearing in order to give the others an opportunity to compose themselves.
The Ball At Meryton: A Pride and Prejudice Alternative Novella by Bronwen Chisholm Page 4
