As a Proper Lady Would: A Pride & Prejudice Variation (Defying Propriety Book 1) by Bronwen Chisholm & A Lady

Author:Bronwen Chisholm & A Lady [Chisholm, Bronwen & Lady, A]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2021-09-29T04:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Netherfield Park

14 November

A ray of sunshine burst through a crack in the curtains and made its way to Elizabeth’s bed. She rubbed her eyes and stretched before tossing back the covers, running to the window, and opening the curtains wide. The rain had stopped late the previous afternoon, and she wondered if she and Jane could return to Longbourn sometime that day.

Her heart twisted at the thought, and the memory of singing with Mr. Darcy the evening before brought a shiver down her spine. The music had weaved a type of spell about them, just as it had done at Lucas Lodge. They were both taken unawares when the remainder of the party applauded their performance.

“Mr. Darcy,” Mrs. Hurst had simpered, “shame on you for hiding such talent from us. If you were to perform with Caroline, it would be shown to great advantage.”

Elizabeth’s eyes narrowed at the cut, but the gentleman pretended not to hear it, though he did squeeze her elbow while assisting her to rise from the seat at the instrument. Mr. Darcy then escorted her to the settee, where he sat beside her while Jane and Mr. Bingley rose to recite poetry for the group. Elizabeth began to imagine future evenings spent in similar company and felt she could become quite content, though more so without the eldest Bingley sister.

After completing her toilette, she made her way downstairs to the breakfast room Mr. Darcy had shown her the day before. He was already there and held her chair before fixing a plate with all her favourites. He was about to request chocolate for her again when she shook her head ever so slightly.

“Tea?” he asked, and she nodded with a brilliant smile.

“The sun is shining so brightly this morning,” she said as they broke their fast. “Jane and I may be able to return home today.”

“Your coachman has taken a horse to inspect the bridge you mentioned yesterday. He will report his findings when he returns.”

“My, you have been busy this morning, Mr. Darcy.”

A blush covered his cheeks. “In truth, I had considered riding out myself, but your coachman was already gone when I reached the stables.”

“It is probably best, sir, since Mr. Wynn is more familiar with the area and will determine the safest route.” She lifted her fork. “And I would have been forced to eat alone.”

His countenance brightened. “We could not have that, Miss Bennet.”

They spent a pleasant half hour, mostly in a companionable silence, while enjoying their meal. They were just finishing when a footman stepped into the room to announce Mr. Wynn’s return.

“Shall we discover his findings?” Mr. Darcy asked as he rose from his place.

Elizabeth agreed. He held her chair, then offered his arm to escort her to the back of the house. The coachman greeted her, shaking his head.

“I’m afraid we will have to wait a day or two before it’s safe enough for you and Miss Bennet to return home, miss. The water is receding but still covers the bridge.

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