Meant to Be: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Andreea Catana

Author:Andreea Catana [Catana, Andreea]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Published: 2017-10-17T22:00:00+00:00

Chapter Fifteen

Mr. Darcy was not to seen at Longbourn for the next several days. Mr. Bingley, however, called three times. On his first visit, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst accompanied their brother.

Mr. Bennet inquired after Mr. Darcy, and Mr. Bingley informed them that his friend was attending to urgent business that required his presence in London.

“Mr. Darcy has left Netherfield?” Elizabeth asked with more interest than she would have liked to betray.

“Yes, I am afraid so,” Mr. Bingley replied. “He was needed in Town,” Mr. Bingley explained.

Miss Bingley intervened, addressing Elizabeth. “Mr. Darcy must have realised that nothing held his interest here. Such a gentleman is usually exceedingly busy; surely, you can understand that he cannot waste his time…for too long.”

“Well,” Mrs. Bennet said, “I understand completely that Mr. Darcy has directed his attention to something better. He did seem to enjoy the countryside less than you, Mr. Bingley.”

“Perhaps, but that is not the reason for his departure,” Bingley insisted. “I know he was rather displeased that he had to leave and hoped to return soon.”

“Oh—well, he may, of course, do as he pleases,” Mrs. Bennet declared. “We are very happy to have you here, Mr. Bingley.”

The visit of the Bingley siblings lasted slightly over half an hour as the ladies seemed eager to leave and took their brother with them.

Their hasty departure left Mrs. Bennet displeased, Jane disappointed, and Elizabeth intrigued. If the first two ladies’ preoccupation was with Mr. Bingley, Elizabeth could think of no one except Mr. Darcy.

On his next visits, Mr. Bingley came alone, offered little news about his friend, remained considerably longer than a proper visit would require, and appeared to be more besotted with the eldest Miss Bennet every day. And yet, he showed no inclination to declare himself, nor did he attempt to steal any private moments with Jane. While Mrs. Bennet was tormented by the delay, Elizabeth strangely felt Mr. Darcy’s absence acutely, puzzled by the motives that might keep him away and wondering whether he would ever return to Hertfordshire. Even more perplexing was the reason his absence was so distressing for her.

“Perhaps, we could go on a picnic!” Mr. Bingley suggested on his third visit when Jane commented that she and Elizabeth were fond of spending time outdoors. “It would give me great pleasure to organise one if you would like it.”

“That would be a wonderful idea!” Mrs. Bennet exclaimed, taking the opportunity to add a further suggestion. “We could have one right here in the grove behind our back yard. It is a wildish enough place, and we do not have to go too far in this hot weather.” Her impulsive decision allowed little room for refusal.

Mr. Bingley and Jane shared timid smiles, and the gentleman said, “Any place you prefer is acceptable to me. Just let me know how I may help.”

“Oh, do not worry sir—you only have to come! We will have everything arranged. Shall we say the day after tomorrow? Would that be acceptable?” Mrs. Bennet made sure she did not miss the opportunity.

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