Books and Bonds: A pride and Prejudice Novella Variation by Lydia Fairfax

Author:Lydia Fairfax [Fairfax, Lydia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Pride and Prejudice & Related Fandoms, Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence
Goodreads: 217048850
Publisher: Amazon Inc
Published: 2024-11-30T05:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 13

Sir William Lucas had thrown a ball at Lucas Lodge, and the Bennets, accompanied by their mother, attended in high spirits. It had been two days since Mr. Darcy’s departure for Pemberley on urgent estate business, a fact Elizabeth had tried to dismiss from her thoughts. Yet, as the music played and the room filled with chatter and laughter, she was more conscious than ever of his absence.

Mr. Bingley, however, was very much present and danced nearly every set with Jane, his cheerful demeanour making his intentions clear to all but the most oblivious observers. Mrs. Bennet, far from oblivious, beamed with delight and took every opportunity to extol Jane’s virtues to anyone within earshot. Elizabeth, meanwhile, alternated between polite conversation with Charlotte Lucas and observing the interplay of the evening’s guests.

As the ball began to wane, Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley approached Jane and Elizabeth. Mrs. Hurst, her tone practiced and pleasant, addressed Jane. “Miss Bennet, it has been far too long since we last enjoyed your company at Netherfield. You must come and visit us soon.”

Miss Bingley nodded, her tone taking on a saccharine sweetness as she turned to Elizabeth. “Indeed, Miss Eliza, you must come too. You were so devoted to your sister during her illness, and I dare say you had little time for leisure. Now that Jane is fully recovered, you can surely spare a moment.”

Elizabeth inclined her head politely. “You are very kind, Miss Bingley. Jane and I shall consider it.”

Mrs. Hurst gave a thin smile, and with that, the two sisters drifted away, leaving Elizabeth to exchange a bemused glance with Jane.

Moments later, Charlotte approached, curiosity evident in her expression. “What was that about?” she asked, gesturing subtly toward the Bingley sisters.

Elizabeth gave a small shrug. “An invitation, though one more for form’s sake than sincerity, I suspect.”

Charlotte laughed softly. “They must have some reason. Do you think it has to do with Mr. Bingley?”

“Undoubtedly,” Elizabeth replied, glancing toward Jane, who was engaged in conversation with Mr. Bingley. “Though their motives may be broader than mere politeness.”

Before Charlotte could respond, Mr. Collins appeared, his approach awkward but determined. His bow was overly elaborate as he greeted Charlotte and Elizabeth. “Ah, Miss Bennet, Miss Lucas, what a delightful evening this has been. Miss Bennet, I must commend you again on your charming family.”

Charlotte gave Elizabeth a sidelong glance as Mr. Collins spoke, her expression struggling between amusement and sympathy. When he finally took his leave, Charlotte leaned closer. “So, that is your cousin. The infamous Mr. Collins I’ve heard so much about.”

Elizabeth stifled a laugh. “The very one. He is as peculiar as he is devoted to Lady Catherine.”

“And he seems particularly attentive to you,” Charlotte observed, her tone tinged with curiosity. “Do you think he might propose?”

Elizabeth sighed. “I fear he might. And if he does, I shall refuse him.”

Charlotte frowned. “Why? You are too quick, Lizzy. Men do not linger long, and as time passes, they will look to younger ladies. Should you not at least consider him?”

“I am not being hasty, Charlotte.

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