by Lory Lilian
“Lady Cassandra, I dare say that insisting any further to discover what Miss Bennet does not want to share with us would be equally as rude,” Darcy intervened soundly.
His interference, though in her favour, did not make Elizabeth any easier. In fact, it had quite the opposite effect. Lady Cassandra appeared offended, but her expression changed in a moment. As the tension was caused by her bizarre reaction, Elizabeth decided to put an end to it as soon as possible, even if it meant the risk of giving more offence to her hosts.
“I beg you will forgive me. My behaviour has been rude indeed. I was amused by the fact that your ladyship’s questions were similar to those of Lady Catherine last March.”
The effect of her words was exactly as she feared. Mr. and Miss Darcy frowned, and Lady Cassandra remained speechless for a few moments before shaking her head and exclaiming, “Heaven forbid! Is that true? Oh dear, you absolutely must forget this instant that I ever asked you for such details. The same questions as Lady Catherine? That is not to be borne; it is the worst thing I have ever done!” The expression of distress on her face seemed so earnest that Georgiana began to laugh, quickly joined by the lady herself.
Shortly after this exchange, Elizabeth declared her intention of leaving. Her call had lasted more than two hours, which was considerably longer than propriety dictated. Mr. Darcy rose to ask for the carriage, but Lady Cassandra stopped him.
“Miss Bennet, if you can bear my company a little longer, I would be delighted to take you in my carriage.”
Elizabeth looked at her in utter shock, noting that the Darcys were as surprised as she was.
“I thank you, your ladyship, but I would not want to trouble you. My uncle lives in Gracechurch Street and—
“Oh, I know where Gracechurch Street is, Miss Bennet, and I feel quite in the mood for a longer ride before returning home.”
Elizabeth cast a short glance toward the Darcys, and she noticed Mr. Darcy’s eyes searching her face closely; she likely looked disconcerted, and he had noticed. She could refuse, and he would surely offer her his carriage, but why all these ridiculous hesitations? Surely, Lady Cassandra presented no danger to her. She struggled to change her expression, careful not to cause another awkward moment.
“Thank you, Lady Cassandra. Of course I accept your kind offer.”
“Excellent! Let us go then, and during the ride, we may talk about the ball. What colour gown will you wear?”
They went toward the carriage, closely accompanied by the Darcys. Lady Cassandra entered first, helped by the gentleman. She reminded them she was expecting them later for dinner.
Georgiana took a warm leave of Elizabeth, embracing her, while Mr. Darcy bowed politely and took her hand to help her into the carriage, again holding it longer than necessary. She blushed, as she knew the other two ladies must have noticed his gesture, but she found the courage to smile tentatively as she thanked him.
“I hope to see you again soon, Miss Bennet,” he said as he closed the carriage door.
Elizabeth continued to look through the window until the house and the Darcys were out of sight; only then did her eyes turn to her companion.
One glance was enough for her to understand that Lady Cassandra had no intention whatsoever of talking about the ball.
Chapter 4
Elizabeth bore Lady Cassandra’s scrutiny a few moments rather uncomfortably. She was about to break the annoying silence when her ladyship finally spoke.
“Miss Bennet, I have been told you are a bright woman. You are also sincere, as I have observed myself. As it is likely we shall see each other quite often in the future, I think we should clarify a few things. May I speak plainly?”
“Of course! I very much prefer openness and sincerity. However, I must confess that your ladyship’s tone is a little frightening.”
“I surely hope not. I dare say you are not easily frightened; not even being alone in the room with an angry gentleman would seem to deter you.”
Elizabeth frowned. The confirmation that Lady Cassandra was aware of the dreadful circumstances of Darcy’s proposal made her tremble with mortification and rage toward him for not keeping private such a delicate affair.
“It appears that your ladyship has already heard many things about me.”
As though she had guessed the nature of Elizabeth’s thoughts, Lady Cassandra continued. “Do not be too upset with Darcy. Under normal circumstances, he never would have told me about that unfortunate event. However, he was not quite himself by the time I returned, and Georgiana was even more affected by his state, so you may understand that I could find no peace until I discovered the reason behind his distress.”
“Under normal circumstances…he was not quite himself…” The words echoed in her head so clearly that she could barely hear or understand anything else. Had he been so deeply moved by her refusal that his mood had affected even his sister? Suddenly, the carriage became too small, and she felt she could not breathe.
“I must tell you that I have known the Darcys for twenty years now; they are my only remaining family. No other people are closer to my heart.”
“I see. I am sorry to have caused anyone such distress, especially Miss Darcy. She surely does not deserve to suffer.”
“No, she does not, and neither does Darcy. Do you also regret making him suffer? Or perhaps you have come to regret your refusal now that you know exactly what you have refused?”
“Lady Cassandra, I do not mean to be rude, but I am not comfortable having this conversation with you. It is too painful to share with anyone.”
“Very well then; I shall not pursue the subject further. I will only add that Georgiana is oblivious to all that happened. Everything she has been told about you is favourable, mainly from Darcy and partially from the colonel.”
Elizabeth had no answer. What else was there to say?
“Moreover,” continued Lady Cassandra, “Georgiana does not know that you are aware of what occurred at Ramsgate. As you know, it was a private matter, and so it should remain.”
“I understand, and I beg you to rest assured that their secret will be perfectly safe with me.”
“I have no doubt of that. If Darcy decided to tell you, it is certain he had complete trust in you. Ironic, is it not, for a man to trust so completely the woman who has just refused his marriage proposal and accused him of atrocious behaviour?”
Elizabeth again became livid as the accusation cut to her very soul, and her ladyship’s rudeness became difficult to bear. She had no time to answer before Lady Cassandra continued. “You must be a remarkable woman, Miss Bennet, to have earned such attention from a man like Darcy.”
“Lady Cassandra, I will confess that I have regretted my lack of understanding and the unfair accusations I heaped upon Mr. Darcy. I did blame myself for speaking with such vehemence about a subject that was not my personal concern and for allowing myself to be so easily deceived by Mr. Wickham. Though I know I had every reason to reject Mr. Darcy’s proposal at the time—and I did know perfectly well what and whom I was refusing—I cannot help but feel sorry for all the distress I caused both Mr. and Miss Darcy…especially now, when I have come to know them better.”
“So you are still certain you were right to refuse Darcy? Is that what you are telling me? Are you not asking yourself whether you have made the greatest mistake of your life?”
Elizabeth’s rage surpassed her patience; she took a deep breath and glanced out the window to gauge their location, hoping they reached her destination quickly.
“I presume that you are not as pleased with your refusal now.”
Lady Cassandra’s voice held sharp irony, and Elizabeth finally erupted. “May I presume that your ladyship is not displeased with my refusal?”
She noticed with no little satisfaction that her words had the desired effect; Lady Cassandra’s expression changed instantly, and she frowned.
“You think I am pleased that you refused Darcy?” Her voice was calm but determine
d, demanding a response. When no answer came, she continued. “Then you are not wrong, Miss Bennet; I am quite happy. If not for your refusal, I likely would not have returned so soon.”
“I see.” Elizabeth started to play with her reticule. Surely, her distress was obvious. She hated the idea of looking weak and pitiful before this formidable creature.
“Miss Bennet, rest assured: the secret of everything that occurred between you and Darcy will be perfectly safe with me. Also, I had no intention of being rude or upsetting you; I only wanted to clarify a few things for the benefit of everyone involved. Georgiana seems to feel friendship for you, and I cannot allow her to suffer again.” Lady Cassandra’s voice lost its sharpness and became gentle and soft as she spoke of Miss Darcy. “Georgiana has developed a strong, genuine friendship for you after only a few days. Undoubtedly, she has been influenced by her brother’s generous praise. I have never seen her as animated with anyone outside the immediate family, and Darcy does not appear at all concerned. In fact, he seems to encourage the growing intimacy of your acquaintance. The power you have over the Darcys is quite amazing!”
Several emotions overwhelmed Elizabeth completely; each of Lady Cassandra’s words felt like a knife piercing her thoughts. Her ladyship had done nothing more than voice aloud the same thoughts that had preoccupied Elizabeth since she first met Georgiana.
“Does your ladyship believe that my presence is harmful to Miss Darcy? Would your ladyship prefer that I spend less time in her company? I am asking because I believe your concerns are in Miss Darcy’s best interest.”
“I am not the one to make decisions in this matter; Darcy and the colonel are her guardians, and they seem to consider your friendship beneficial for her. I only hope you are the honest and sincere person we believe you to be and that you will not overlook the sincerity of her friendship.”
“Lady Cassandra, I know your opinion about me is not favourable. I also know you would prefer not to be in my company—
“No indeed, Miss Bennet, quite the contrary. Trust me; if I did not desire your company, you would be fully aware of that by now.”
“Thank you. Your ladyship is very kind. And speaking of kindness, please allow me to thank you for inviting us to the ball. My aunt and uncle have been delighted by the opportunity—
“And are you not delighted? You know, there will be a few handsome young gentlemen among the guests, so I dare say you will amuse yourself as well.” Lady Cassandra was talking to her as though they were long-time friends with nothing but perfect understanding between them, and the lady continued to run on about the ball until they reached the Gardiner’s house.
As a matter of courtesy, Elizabeth invited her companion in for a cup of tea. She was surprised, however, when Lady Cassandra agreed most readily to join her. In turn, Mrs. Gardiner was shocked to receive the unexpected visit of such an illustrious guest.
In Mrs. Gardiner’s presence, Lady Cassandra’s manners softened and warmed. She became nothing but kindness, complimented Mrs. Gardiner on her home, and even asked after Mr. Gardiner. More than half an hour passed before their guest took her leave, expressing her hope to see them again at the ball, which would occur in three days’ time.
Thus, three days later—as the maid was helping her prepare for the ball—Elizabeth still could comprehend neither the truth of Lady Cassandra’s character nor her intentions with regard to the Darcys.
***
Caroline Bingley had rarely been so displeased. She had returned to Town three days earlier and discovered alarming details about Lady Cassandra. Her anger—and panic—grew with each new report about the Darcys being seen in the company of the illustrious lady. Moreover, though she had sent around her card announcing her arrival in Grosvenor Street, she had received no invitation nor had either of the Darcys visited her.
Charles, absentminded and oblivious to the situation, admitted he had met Mr. Darcy briefly but refused to offer any details except that their departure for Pemberley had not changed.
The most alarming news was the private ball Lady Cassandra would be hosting to which they had not been invited. Mrs. Hurst managed to calm her younger sister, insisting it was likely that only the closest friends and relatives of her ladyship had been included in her guest list.
Yet, Caroline sensed that something horrible was about to happen, something that would destroy her future plans. None of Miss Bingley’s acquaintances had been invited to the ball, so she held no hope for the consolation of a detailed report the following day. Consequently, she could only wait and hope something would occur to put an end to her distress. However, the day of the ball arrived and found Caroline shrouded in the deepest misery. She was certain it was the most horrible day of her life and the situation could not possibly get any worse.
***
The drive from Gracechurch Street to Lady Cassandra’s home seemed to Elizabeth longer than a trip from London to Longbourn. She had always loved balls; however, this particular ball caused her to feel uncomfortable and distressed.
Until that moment, Elizabeth had always felt at ease among people and never allowed herself to be intimidated, no matter the illustrious company in which she might find herself. Suddenly, the thought that she would be viewed as a last-minute addition to the elegant ball was overwhelming. That Mr. Darcy would also be present only added to her bewilderment.
The gowns Mrs. Gardiner procured for both of them were exquisite. While examining her hair and dress in the mirror, she knew she had never looked better. Nevertheless, with great effort did she finally admit to herself that the true cause of her distress was not what she thought about her appearance but what Mr. Darcy’s opinion might be.
Lady Cassandra’s house was everything Elizabeth had expected in terms of beauty and greatness. It spoke eloquently of its mistress’s wealth and situation in life—as Mr. Darcy’s home revealed the same about him. Elizabeth busied herself with an examination of the home; at the same time, she perceived the inquisitive gaze of several guests examining her.
Elizabeth’s worries about their reception vanished as Lady Cassandra greeted them with obvious pleasure and warm politeness the first moment they entered. The friendly and joyful presence of Colonel Fitzwilliam was a blessing to Elizabeth, and she smiled openly at him as he hurried toward them and offered to accompany her into the ballroom. Mr. Darcy, however, was nowhere to be seen, and Elizabeth did not dare inquire after him.
“Miss Bennet, I shall take this opportunity to ask for the first set if you are not otherwise engaged.”
“I am not engaged, Colonel,” she answered, and then she leaned toward him slightly, whispering, “In fact sir, I am quite grateful for your invitation. I do not know anyone else in the room; therefore, I am quite sure my dance card will remain empty until the end of the evening.”
“Oh, I should not be so certain about that, Miss Bennet. I dare say that more than one gentleman cast admiring glances in our direction as we entered, and I doubt the admiration was meant for me. I think I was wise to secure myself a set at the beginning of the evening.” She could not help laughing again, feeling much of her uneasiness dissipating.
A moment later, Mr. Gardiner asked after Mr. Darcy; the colonel explained that he had already arrived but some urgent business regarding Lady Cassandra’s estate needed his attention. “He is in the study, but I anticipate he will appear soon. He asked after you a few times, and I promised I would send a servant to inform him when you arrived.”
Elizabeth’s cheeks coloured, and her heart skipped a beat. He asked to be informed when we arrived? His interest was difficult to believe but flattering, and she was torn between excitement and distress.
Colonel Fitzwilliam remained in their company and introduced them to some of the guests. To Elizabeth’s surprise, less than half an hour later, she found herself engaged for another three sets. Colonel Fitzwilliam immediately began to tease her about her popularity, but Elizabeth was certain that her “success” was due in large part to the oth
er guests’ curiosity about her and her relatives rather than an indication of her charm.
Why is he so late? Of course, once Mr. Darcy made his appearance, she could not expect the same friendly manners he had shown during their private meetings. But would he at least speak to her or ask for a dance?
Her thoughts were interrupted as a gentleman stopped near them, bowing politely to her as he also greeted the colonel.
“Colonel Fitzwilliam! It is a pleasure to see you again. I hope I am not intruding.” As he spoke, his eyes never left Elizabeth’s face, and she blushed at his insistent stare.
“Lord Markham, what a surprise! I did not expect to see you here.” The colonel’s voice was cold and stern; however, the gentleman seemed to take no offence.
“Well, apparently Lady Cassandra forgot to invite me as I was out of town, but my cousins asked me to escort them, and I could not refuse the request of two lovely ladies.”
“I see. Well then, do not allow us to detain you from your escort duties. I am sure your cousins are missing you.” Elizabeth startled at this open rudeness and gazed in surprise at the colonel. He was frowning, and he made no attempt to hide his displeasure.
The other gentleman, however, laughed shortly but did not leave, his eyes fixed intently on Elizabeth. “I am sure they will do very well without me for a while. Would you do me the honour of introducing me to the loveliest lady in the room, Colonel?”
“I would surely do so if you tell me of whom you are speaking,” answered the colonel blankly, and Elizabeth did not know whether to chuckle or feel offended.
“Colonel, I am pleased to see your sense of humour is unaltered; however, I cannot believe you missed my meaning. I had the pleasure of seeing Miss Bennet last week at the theatre, and since then, I have wished for a formal introduction.” Lord Markham bowed to her.
Though intrigued by the exchange, Elizabeth trusted that the colonel would not treat another gentleman rudely without good reason. She used all her civility to answer as politely as she could, but it was not an easy task. The viscount’s manners, pleasant features and warm voice suddenly struck her as being similar to those of Mr. Wickham.
