Finally Mrs. Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Novella by Leenie Brown & a Lady

Author:Leenie Brown & a Lady
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Publisher: Leenie B Books
Published: 2016-07-20T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter 5

Elizabeth was seated at her dressing table when the door to the bedroom flew open.

“What do you mean you are marrying Mr. Darcy?” Jane held the note Elizabeth had sent in her right hand and waved it slightly to draw her sister’s attention to it. “You have not seen him in five years, and at your first re-acquaintance you agree to marry him?” She tossed the letter on Elizabeth’s table and folded her arms across her chest. “When Jack died, you said you would never marry again, and yet you are betrothed to the first man you are introduced to at a ball?” Her tone was accusing and, for Jane, she spoke loudly.

Elizabeth sighed. Of course, Jane did not understand. Elizabeth had never spoken of Mr. Darcy after Bingley returned without him. She rose, dismissed her maid, and went to sit on the bed, motioning for Jane to join her.

“How could you accept him?” Though Jane’s voice had quieted, her tone was no less accusing.

Elizabeth grasped Jane’s hands, trying to calm not only Jane but also herself. Admitting she had kept a secret from her dearly loved sister was not an easy task. For all their lives, they had shared nearly everything. “I know it appears sudden, but I assure you it is not.” She looked steadfastly at their joined hands. “I love him,” she admitted, daring only to peek up at her sister. Her heart thumped loudly in her chest as it always did when Jane was distraught. “I have loved him nearly as long as you have loved Charles.” She released one of Jane’s hands and brushed a tear from the corner of her eye.

Jane cupped her sister’s cheek with her free hand.

Elizabeth gave her a small smile of thanks at the comforting gesture. Even when distraught, Jane found it nearly impossible to refrain from giving comfort.

“But what of his interference with Charles and me? You were so angry with him.”

Elizabeth nodded slowly. “I was, and while I cannot approve of his actions in doing so, I do understand his reasons. He has repented of any harm he may have caused, and I have forgiven him long ago.” She covered Jane’s hand, which was still on her cheek, with her own. “My dear sister,” her voice was gentle, “how did your husband learn of Mr. Darcy’s interference?”

Jane blinked apparently unsure of why Elizabeth would ask such a question. “Mr. Darcy told him of it.”

Elizabeth nodded and rose from the bed. It was too difficult to stay seated. The topic was not an easy one of which to speak. Her stomach twisted and knotted. Her hands clasped each other tightly and then relaxed before repeating the same process. “Mr. Darcy did not have to tell Charles of it. He could have encouraged Charles simply to return to Netherfield and renew his acquaintance with you without ever divulging his part in your separation.” She stood by the window and peeked over her shoulder at her sister, who was watching her with furrowed brows.

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