The Taming of Elizabeth by Cinnamon Worth

Author:Cinnamon Worth [Worth, Cinnamon]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9780463656266
Amazon: 0463656261
Published: 2018-10-25T04:00:00+00:00

∞∞∞

“Goodness,” Caroline Bingley said in exasperation. “It has been nearly a month now. The pair of you look like children who have just seen your favorite toys destroyed.” The trio had been sitting in silence for hours. Caroline suggested cards, but when that had failed, she attempted to enjoy some solitary activities including painting, reading, and needlepoint. But it was no use. Caroline wanted conversation. “Had I known your surly mood was contagious, Mr. Darcy, I might have insisted Charles keep his distance from you.” She smiled to show she was teasing, but her attempts at lightening the mood appeared to have no impact. She sighed and studied each man.

Mr. Darcy was staring at a book, but she had not yet seen him turn a single page this morning, and her brother was making no pretense of being engaged in any activity. “You should both feel relief, you know. Had you seen the look she gave me, Mr. Darcy, you would have seen how frightening and dangerous Miss Bennet is capable of becoming. And you, Charles,” Caroline turned to her brother. “It is entirely possible Miss Jane was simply interested in you because of your wealth.”

Charles Bingley had been staring at his boots for the past hour. Nothing seemed able to rouse him from his melancholy stupor until his sister’s words penetrated his shell. “Miss Jane is the most honorable woman I know. If I could convince her to take me because of my money, I most certainly would, but she is not a mercenary, Caroline. Besides, she lives comfortably and will find no difficulty securing a husband with means.”

Caroline rolled her eyes and sniggered. “The Bennets live comfortably? That is not what I have heard…” No sooner had she said it then Caroline wanted to swallow her words. Her brother had just said he would happily buy the girl, and here she was offering him the opportunity. Both men looked to her, and for the first time that morning appeared alert and interested.

“What do you mean, Caroline?” Bingley’s voice held an unfamiliar air of command. It reminded Miss Bingley very much of their father’s voice.

“It is just silly rumors. I am sure it means nothing.”

“What sort of rumors?” Darcy demanded.

“Again, I would like to point out how lucky you both have been to sever connections with that family before any scandal broke.” Caroline was sure at least Mr. Darcy would recognize the advantages of avoiding a union with a poor family who came to ruin in such spectacular fashion. “While I was in town, I heard the Bennets’ credit at all of the shops has been fully expended, and they have started selling off valuables. I did not hear any specifics, but I have seen it before. I suspect Mr. Bennet may be more of a card player than a scholar.”

Mr. Darcy’s face paled slightly as he sat in quiet reflection.

“Mr. Darcy?” Caroline called, unwilling to so easily let go of the shred of discussion she had started. He acknowledged her, and she continued.

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