Mr. Darcy's Household: A Pride and Prejudice Novella Variation by Lyr Newton

Author:Lyr Newton [Newton, Lyr]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2021-08-29T22:00:00+00:00

Chapter 8

Elizabeth dressed for the assembly without much enthusiasm, trying to force herself to enjoy the prospect of the ball as much as she used to in the past. She barely succeeded in looking like she was in good mood, but at least her sisters and mother did not notice her low disposition and they appeared highly interested in what that lovely evening potentially had to offer.

They arrived at the assembly rooms—already filled with people—and Elizabeth instantly felt it was very crowded and the air warm and heavy, although the music had not even begun.

Lydia and Kitty ran to join Maria Lucas and some other friends, Mrs. Bennet moved towards Lady Lucas, Mrs. Long and Mrs. Phillips, while Charlotte Lucas—her lifelong friend—came to greet Elizabeth. They withdrew into a corner, a little separated from the crowd, to be able to speak with some privacy, and found two chairs next to the balcony door. While the other ladies—Mrs. Bennet included—preferred to stay as far as possible from the chilly air of the autumn evening, for Elizabeth and her friend, it was a delight.

“Everybody is speaking of Mr. Bingley, and everybody expects to dance with him,” Charlotte said.

“If only the ball had twenty or more sets and Mr. Bingley possessed excellent feet,” Elizabeth jested.

“Well, he may benefit from the help of his friends. The rumours are that his party consists of twelve ladies and seven gentlemen, who will all come with him to the assembly.”

“Too many ladies, it seems. This fact will surely diminish the slight chance that the ladies in Meryton might have had to partner him for a set,” Elizabeth laughed.

“True. Well, some of us are already accustomed to sitting out some sets since gentlemen are scarce, so we would not be offended. But you look very pretty, Lizzy. You seemed a little tired when you returned home, I was a bit worried for you.”

“Thank you, my dear Charlotte, but you know you must not worry for me. I am enduring, resourceful, and patient.”

The music started, gradually covering the voices and laughter, and the gentlemen were already in search of their partners. But then, the riot suddenly ceased, when one gentleman, followed by another and then two ladies, entered.

He glanced around the room, and everybody was relieved when he reacted heartily with a friendly nod and a charming smile.

“That is Mr. Bingley,” Charlotte whispered to Elizabeth, from their private corner.

“So there are only two gentlemen and two ladies, after all. Quite fortunate for us,” Elizabeth replied, observing the new arrivals.

“Yes, those are his sisters and his brother-in-law. Papa saw them earlier today,” Charlotte explained.

Elizabeth watched them with curiosity and amusement. Mr. Bingley was good-looking and gentlemanlike; he had a pleasant countenance and amiable manners. His gestures, as well as his smile, were easy and unaffected. His sisters were fine women, with an air of decided fashion but also with a disdainful expression, hard to conceal. Their gowns looked elegant and stylish, but Elizabeth had easily ascertained certain details that made

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