Mr. Darcy's Black Magic: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Burkett Elaine

Author:Burkett, Elaine
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-11-26T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 14

The rest of the day proceeded smoothly. Jane took a nap in the afternoon, allowing Elizabeth the opportunity to get a bit of fresh air and exercise.

As she made her way to the side garden where she had walked yesterday, she was surprised to be greeted once again by Mr. Darcy. She had honestly not expected to see any of the residents today. At least Mr. Darcy’s surprise appearance was more welcome than Miss Bingley’s.

Greetings were exchanged and she quickly agreed to share her walk with him. Only a couple of minutes into the walk, however, Elizabeth noticed that something had changed between them. Somehow, the experience of rescuing the dog together had drawn them closer. Elizabeth felt more comfortable in Mr. Darcy’s presence than she ever had before.

At the same time, however, she couldn’t really say she was relaxed. She seemed to be excessively aware of his presence at her side. When she dared to glance at him, she was forcibly reminded of his handsome features and his strong arms.

Strange thoughts began to flow through her mind that were unbecoming in a maiden. She began to wonder what it would feel like to be wrapped in an embrace with his strong arms around her. She wondered what it would feel like to hold his hand.

When her wandering mind began to wonder what his lips would feel like if they kissed her hand, or her cheek, or her lips, she felt her face begin to warm.

Mr. Darcy seemed to notice almost immediately. “Miss Elizabeth,” he said, “are you well? Perhaps we have walked too far.”

Such a statement was patently ridiculous. They had only been strolling for fifteen minutes. Yesterday, she had walked three miles at a brisk pace, and Mr. Darcy knew she had done so. Yet, with her embarrassment at her own thoughts sealing her lips, she could not answer or explain.

“Perhaps you are a bit feverish.” The statement sounded like a question. “Have you contracted your sister’s illness, perhaps?”

Mr. Darcy seemed genuinely concerned, almost distraught with worry, and all over a little bit of embarrassment. Elizabeth forced herself to speak to allay his growing fears. “Peace, Mr. Darcy. I am not ill, nor have I overexerted myself. I was simply remembering an embarrassing episode from my childhood while you were speaking of your home.”

“It must be very embarrassing indeed to bring such a blush to your face after all these years,” said Mr. Darcy, amused curiosity coloring his voice. “Will you share your story?”

Elizabeth feigned being shocked. “You would ask a lady to willingly embarrass herself simply for your own amusement?” As she spoke, her mind raced to remember a childhood adventure that was suitably embarrassing in case he continued to press for details.

Mr. Darcy let a true smile grow over his face. “I would, indeed, since I am intensely curious to know what a young Miss Elizabeth Bennet was like.” Then he let his voice become serious. “Though I would not willingly make you uncomfortable. So, if you would truly rather not share, I will not press.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.