A Touch of Heaven: A Pride and Prejudice Novella by Francesca Pulcini

Author:Francesca Pulcini [Pulcini, Francesca]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-11-11T00:00:00+00:00

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Later in the evening, once I was in my room, I thought back to my conversation with the strange lady, and I tried to understand what had really disturbed me. She had been kind and attentive and had shown true concern regarding Jane. Her advice, too, was sound and offered with gentle consideration, and still…

It was the situation regarding Mr Darcy that deeply affected me. I had told her about his uncouth behaviour towards me, so why did she think that I might be prejudiced against the gentleman? I had every reason to think ill of him, and when I had decided to try and see him in a different light, his coldness towards me had not helped things improve in the least. He should have accepted my gratitude and been done with it instead of pointedly treating me as if I were his enemy! He probably only wished to forget what had happened in Kent and my very existence.

Arrogant, hateful man!

The noise of the door being opened drew my attention, and Jane entered the room we shared.

“Lizzy, are you well?”

“I am, Jane, only a little tired. What about you? Are you happy with Mr Bingley’s visit?”

When I had arrived home, Jane had told me that during my absence Mr Bingley had called and had extended an invitation for Jane, my aunt, and me to have tea at his townhouse two days hence. I could tell that Jane was conflicted, and I felt that I could not blame her. The idea of meeting Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst again did not appeal to me either. Soon after Mr Bingley had left, Miss Darcy, along with her companion, had called too.

“I am happy. He seems constant and determined, but still…” My sister hesitated.

“He still said nothing about his sisters’ opinions?” I enquired.

She shook her head. “Not a single word. I hoped he would clarify the matter, but he did not dwell on them. He only said that they would be glad to see me again.”

“I see. And I doubt it too, dearest. Just like you.” I paused, wondering whether to be even more explicit. “But Jane, I believe it very unlikely that he might broach the subject when in company with others. I think that you should ask him directly.”

“Ask him?” She startled.

“Precisely. You deserve to know, and he must tell you how things stand. You deserve to be prepared. And he should be clear regarding his own intentions.”

“You are right, I know you are, but it is so difficult! I do not wish to offend him…”

“You will not, I am certain, and he will not take offence when he sees your real concern about the situation. And moreover, you have nothing to lose, dear sister, only to gain.”

She looked serene, but I caught a glimpse of determination in her eyes, and I was glad of it. I did not mean for my sweet sister to become a cynical woman, but neither did I wish for her to be left heartbroken a second time, and perhaps when it would be too late.

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