As they walked out, Elizabeth heard Bingley request permission to call on Jane the following morning. As Jane acceded to his request, he helped her into the carriage and kissed her hand. Elizabeth could not help but see how he lingered a little longer than necessary. While Elizabeth celebrated the obvious progress her sister and he had clearly made in their relationship, she felt a pang of sadness at her own lack of comfort in that regard. Her mind immediately flew to Mr. Darcy’s smiling face, as he left her several evenings ago for his nighttime stroll to Netherfield. The thought discombobulated her, as she attempted to formulate a coherent reply to Mr. Bingley’s adieu.
As they drove along, Elizabeth wondered again at the disappointment she felt over Mr. Darcy’s departure from Netherfield. It made her realize how much she had anticipated seeing him today. During their acquaintance, he had always appeared unexpectedly in her company, and therefore, on some level, she took his presence for granted. Her recent vow to try to get to know him better was based on her belief that she had all the time in the world to do exactly that whenever she chose to do it. Now that she could imagine commencing a friendship with him, he was gone, and his absence made her oddly unsettled. She felt frustrated that she did not know why he had left and had no idea when he would return.
Before the carriage arrived at Longbourn, Jane broke the silence. “Lizzy, do you think I should have accepted Caroline’s invitation on our mother’s behalf?”
Squeezing her hand in reassurance, Elizabeth replied, “Of course you should have, Jane. You know Mama would most definitely want to attend. If you had not, she would probably have sent us both back on Nellie to accept for her.”
After laughing briefly at the thought, Jane again turned serious. “I thought it was very nice of Caroline to invite us all for dinner.”
“Well, I think the invitation best pleased her brother, and that is what matters. I think you are in danger of him falling very much in love with you. I hope you will not leave him in suspense for too long.”
“Oh, Lizzy, I think you are imagining things. But do be serious, do you think his sisters are sincere about wanting to continue a friendship with me?”
“Jane, I think what is important is what Mr. Bingley wants. I think his sisters now understand that he intends to call on you quite frequently and that their acquaintance with you will be a long one. Given that, I think they want you to be easy in their company and develop a friendship from there.”
Thinking for a moment, Jane asked, “And do you think that is a sufficient basis from which to form a friendship?”
“Yes, I do. What you have in common is that you all love Mr. Bingley. Do not try to deny it. I can see it in your eyes, and I know Mr. Bingley’s sisters can too. In the end, that is what will bind all of you together, and I do not think it matters whether his sisters came to it willingly or not. Ultimately, if Mr. Bingley chooses you and you accept him, then everything else will fall into place of its own accord. You need only worry about your feelings for him. You need not worry over how he feels about you. It is quite obvious.”
Upon their return to Longbourn, Elizabeth was proven correct about her mother’s reaction to their invitation to dine at Netherfield. Her excitement was only surpassed by her anticipation of what Mr. Bingley’s visit on the morrow might bring. By the time he did call, Mrs. Bennet had everyone in a state of confusion, as she attempted to orchestrate an opportunity for Jane and Mr. Bingley to be alone in the drawing room. In the end, her machinations proved worthwhile, as Mr. Bingley soon withdrew to Mr. Bennet’s library for a private conference.
As Elizabeth approached Jane, the joy was evident on her sister’s face. “Oh, Lizzy, I am so happy. I do not deserve it. I wish everyone could be this happy.”
Laughing, Elizabeth replied, “I take it, then, that you have something to tell me?”
“Yes, you know I do!” With tears of joy springing to her eyes, she continued, “Lizzy, he asked me to marry him. He told me that he loved me and that he has always loved me. He told me that I had to accept his proposal because he would never be happy without me and that, even if I were not ready to accept him now, he intended to wait for me forever. He promised to make me the happiest of women.”
“And what did you say?”
“I told him that he had already succeeded in that regard and that I want nothing more than to be his wife. I told him that I loved him dearly.”
“Oh, dear, sweet Jane, I am so happy for you.”
“Lizzy, you will be shocked, but after I accepted his proposal, I let him kiss me, and it was exquisite! I was completely lost in his arms. He is so strong and sweet. I felt dizzy at his touch, and when he took me in his arms, I thought my heart would leap from my chest. I cannot tell you how wonderful it feels to love someone who loves me in return. It is almost too much. I feel I shall burst with excitement.”
“Well, we cannot have that! You will just have to survive and be the happiest of women.”
“Oh, Lizzy, my joy will only be complete when you are as happy too.”
“Jane, I can never be as happy as you. Till I have your disposition, your goodness, I never can have your happiness. No, no, let me shift for myself, and, perhaps, if I have very good luck, I may meet with another Mr. Collins in time.”
Mr. Bennet’s assent to the match was quickly given, and the day was filled with joy for everyone at Longbourn. That evening, Bingley told his sisters of his proposal, and to his satisfaction, only well wishes were heard. Thereafter, Bingley was, of course, a daily visitor at Longbourn, coming frequently before breakfast and always remaining till after supper. His friend remained in London, attending to his many responsibilities.
The day that the Bennets were to dine at Netherfield, Jane and Elizabeth called late in the morning to visit by themselves. All of the Bennet women had come the previous afternoon, at Caroline’s request, to view Jane’s future chambers and the whole of the residence. The offer to view the estate was mandatory for Caroline, but Elizabeth was glad to see that it came without delay or any hint of reluctance. Elizabeth thought Caroline bore the visit well, despite her perfunctory responses and her obvious exasperation at their mother’s comments regarding the worth of each piece of furniture. Her mother clearly would have tried anyone’s patience as she waxed on about Jane’s sudden wealth and gave her unsolicited advice about every aspect of the household. While Elizabeth was once again disappointed that there was no news or mention of Mr. Darcy, she was actually relieved that he was not present to see her mother’s tactless inventory of Netherfield. That night, Jane confided to Elizabeth that, through Charles, she had secured an opportunity the next morning to see the house again, without her mother’s meddling, and that she wished Elizabeth to join her. Elizabeth gladly accepted the invitation, both as a means to help her sister and to escape their mother’s endless conversations about the wedding.
As they began the tour, Elizabeth found Caroline’s comments almost as aggravating as her mother’s had been the day before. Today, Caroline’s tone was clearly instructional. She obviously welcomed this second visit, as it was an opportunity to school Jane on what she had determined needed to be done at Netherfield and exactly how it should be accomplished. In the process, Jane’s opinions were brushed aside. As Elizabeth lagged behind, she contemplated challenging Caroline, but thought that ultimately it would not matter, as Jane would have the final say and Mr. Bingley would support her in whatever fashion was required. She would let Caroline have a few final moments to rule the roost before advising Jane to voice her own opinions more forcefully. Listening to Caroline, however, was easier said than done. Deciding that the only way she could hold her tongue was to separate herself from Caroline, she wandered off into the next open door to take in its decor alone. To her shock, she stood face to face with a coatless Mr. Darcy, who apparently had been playing pool in the billiard room.
Quickly putting his cue stick on the table, he bowed and exclaimed, “Miss Bennet.”
“Mr. Darcy… I did no
t mean to intrude. I did not realize you had returned. I will leave you to your game. I am sorry for interrupting…”
Walking with long strides, he quickly stood in front of her as he said in a rushed manner, “No, you are not intruding at all. I had just arrived from town. The servants told me that Mr. Bingley was out. I thought I would just pass some time in here until he returned. I did not want to bother Miss Bingley. I was not aware that she had company.”
Looking away in embarrassment and, thereafter, often at the ground, she said, “Yes, Jane is visiting, and I accompanied her. I thought I would just take a moment to myself. But I would not dream of intruding on your privacy.”
“As I said, you are not intruding. But if you wanted privacy, I am in your way.”
“No, you were here first. Let me leave you to your game.”
Stepping toward her, he said in an earnest tone, “Miss Bennet, I would like you to stay.” At his words, she looked up to see him staring intensely at her. He then said, “I believe you walked in on me once before, in this very room, and at the time I failed to invite you to remain. I have long regretted that decision. Please give me the opportunity to correct my prior mistake. Let me just retrieve my coat.”
Shocked at how nervous she felt, she simply said, “Very well, sir,” as she continued to stare at the pattern in the carpet.
After turning around to put on his coat, he stood before her, smiling broadly. After a pause, he asked. “How have you been?”
“Quite well, thank you. And you?”
“Very well, thank you for asking… I just returned from town… I had some business with my steward that could not be delayed, but I wanted to return as soon as I could.”
Somewhat startled by the implication of his statement, she could not help but respond, “Is that so?”
“Yes, Mr. Bingley wrote to tell me of his proposal and Miss Bennet’s acceptance. I wanted to congratulate them as soon as possible.”
“Oh, yes, of course. It is very joyous news. They seem quite happy.”
Smiling, he said, “I am sure they are.”
After a somewhat lengthy pause, she added, “My sister has come to view the house. Caroline is conducting the tour, and I thought they might progress further without my interference.”
“Oh, that seems wise.” After another awkward pause, he asked, “Miss Bennet, can I ring for some tea or refreshments?”
“No, thank you, I am fine.”
“Yes, very well…” Trying to think of something to say, other than declaring how much he had missed her and inquiring if she had even noted his absence, he impulsively said, “Well, I was just passing the time by playing billiards. Do you play? Maybe you would consent to a match?”
Incredulous, Elizabeth repeated, “Do I play? Mr. Darcy, I am taken aback by your question. I would be reluctant to respond, even if I did. It is not typically seen as a woman’s game.” Unable to resist, she added, “I am afraid there must be some mischief afoot in your inquiry.”
Smiling broadly, he replied, “Not at all. I was simply trying to ascertain if you were interested in a game. I assure you, I would never dream of attempting any mischief in your company. It would clearly be folly on my part.”
Suppressing a laugh, she asked, “Do you think so?”
“Oh, yes, that I know for certain.” As they smiled at each other, he added, “I suppose my question could be considered somewhat unorthodox, but it does not necessarily seem so to me. I am probably divulging a family secret that my sister will regret, but, as I am sure you know, the winters at Pemberley are very harsh, and without the superior guidance of my mother, I must admit, I let my sister talk me into teaching her to play. She is quite good. We often pass the time in such a manner. I suppose I assumed there were other women who played, and I thought that if you did, you would not be averse to a game of competition.”
With her eyes alive with laughter, she challenged, “Are you insinuating that I have a competitive nature? I am not sure that is flattering.”
“I was simply noting that you always seem to enjoy a challenge. Clearly that is a praiseworthy trait.”
“Even in a woman?”
“When an attribute is scarce, it should be appreciated all the more.”
“That may be so, but would you not be embarrassed to compete against a woman? What if I were to win?”
Raising his eyebrow to accept the challenge, he replied, “Miss Bennet, as I have told you before, I am not afraid of you.”
His response made her catch her breath. As he held her gaze, Elizabeth was surprised at how flushed she felt and hoped her cheeks did not reveal it. As she tried to determine what response she could give, she heard the unwelcome high-pitched voice of Miss Bingley. “Mr. Darcy, I was not informed that you had returned! Please forgive me; I should have waited on you immediately. Has Thomas placed your belongings in your room? You must be tired from your journey. Do you wish to retire? Can I get you some refreshments? I am so pleased you have returned.”
Despite the interruption, Darcy continued to gaze at Elizabeth for her response. He then slowly turned to Miss Bingley. “I just arrived and did not want to impose on you. My bags have been delivered, and I am quite comfortable, thank you.” Turning to Jane, he walked forward and took her hand as he said, “Miss Bennet, Mr. Bingley wrote me of your engagement. I am so pleased. He is a very fortunate man, and I wish you both every happiness.”
Smiling, Jane replied, “Mr. Darcy, it is so good to see you. Thank you for your gracious sentiments. I know Mr. Bingley was eager to tell you of our engagement, and he will be quite pleased to learn that you have returned.”
As Darcy thanked Jane, Caroline came forward to claim his arm. “Mr. Darcy, you must join us in the sitting room; we were just discussing what changes must be made to Netherfield, and your opinion would be most welcome. Pemberley is the standard by which all gracious homes must be measured, and I think Jane would benefit from your wisdom as to how one goes about decorating a fine estate. I am afraid that with her limited background, the task may be daunting.”
Darcy colored and looked down. He knew the obvious slight to Jane might remind Elizabeth of the unkind things he had once said about her family’s station in life. Resolved to make his position clear, he extricated his arm as he said, “Thank you, but no. I am sure such issues would best be left to the ladies. I am confident Miss Bennet is more than capable of handling all of the details related to the running of Netherfield. She only needs the time and freedom to become comfortable making her own decisions.”
Missing his message completely, Caroline continued. “Yes, but until she has that confidence, I want to make sure she has all the help she needs. I was just telling her that she should, at least, consult a master furniture maker or a fabric designer, someone who is abreast of the latest fashions here and abroad, to help guide her. I am sure that each room of Pemberley has been carefully crafted with the help of countless craftsmen so that they reflect what the highest levels of society have to offer.”
“Actually, in the past, only major renovations have been completed with the consultation of an architect, and the furnishings have been mostly selected by the people who use them. I know my mother decorated all of the main family rooms herself, based on sketches she made. Georgiana also recently redid her suite. She was able to obtain the effect she wanted by a simple meeting with a few local tradesmen. In the end, it came out quite well.”
In a cooing voice, Caroline added, “I am sure Georgiana did a beautiful job, but she has been raised in such elegance, it was probably second nature to her. I think our dear Jane might need a little more direction.”
Trying to extricate himself from the conversation, but seeing that Caroline had no intention of leaving until she felt she had said all that she wanted, he flatly added, “I was unaware that Netherfield required renovations.”
“Oh, yes, it is in dire need of updating. I am sure that if it were your home, you would require many alterations.”
�
��Actually, no, I cannot think of anything, other than allowing Miss Bennet, as the new mistress of the house, the opportunity to change anything she desired.”
Clearly disappointed with his responses, Caroline began to usher the party from the room, until Darcy added, “I can think of one thing, although it is a very small point.” Looking directly at Elizabeth, he continued, “I believe this billiard room might benefit from a less austere design so that it did not appear an exclusively masculine domain. I must say, I have never had a more enjoyable time within it than today, when the company was mixed.”
Although she kept her head down, Elizabeth could not repress her smile as she left the room. Noting her reaction, Darcy watched her go, feeling more optimistic than he had in a very long while.
Chapter 13
TABLE TALK
Elizabeth left the billiard room in a state of confusion and excitement. She wondered at Mr. Darcy’s ability to incite such turmoil. She knew part of her response was due to the fact that his comments had a double meaning intended solely for her benefit. As such, they seemed more intimate. She also understood that because her reaction obviously had to be internalized, it seemed more intense. The truth of the matter was that he had been flirting with her, and to her own astonishment, she had been flirting back. While she was not the most beautiful woman in Hertfordshire, this was not the first time she had received the attentions of a man, or even returned them. But she had never felt such exhilaration before. Maybe it was their tumultuous history, but his overt attention, even if it were only obvious to her, made her heart race and made her long for a more intimate setting. She wondered what she would have said had they not been interrupted. There were a million reasons for her to deny that she knew how to play billiards, but the one idea that kept flittering across her consciousness was that her denial might prompt him to offer her a lesson on the subject. She was shocked at the impropriety of her thoughts, but could not help laughing silently at her foolishness.
Mr. Darcy and the Secret of Becoming a Gentleman Page 17
