Dark Before Light by Linda Wagner

Author:Linda Wagner [Wagner, Linda]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2023-12-21T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter 4

The first light of New Year’s Day bathed Netherfield in a soft glow, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter. Within the walls of the estate, cautious optimism prevailed. Elizabeth’s resilience and strength during the first week of her recovery hinted at the possibility of a brighter future.

The quiet corridors, which had witnessed the trials of the past week, now echoed with a tentative sense of hope. Elizabeth’s ongoing recovery became a focal point, a testament to her determination and the support of those around her. Her hands and head were no longer bandaged, and a lighter shade and some yellow replaced the deep purple of the bruises.

Family members took turns sitting by Elizabeth’s bedside, offering encouragement and support. The house, once silent, began to stir with the subtle sounds of everyday life resuming as the household staff was hired. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy slowly rectified the harm done to the estate during Bingley’s tenure.

Darcy spent hours reading to Elizabeth and her attending sister. In contrast, Mr. Bennet spent his days at Longbourn, only returning to spend the night at Netherfield, thus proving to Darcy that the patriarch was incapable of changing his indolent ways.

“Lizzy, how are you this morning? Is there less pain when you move your head?” Jane’s furrowed brow belied her pleasant tone when talking to her sister.

An exasperated sigh later, Lizzy replied,” I feel better daily. I can move my head slowly without a single twinge. I wish to get up. I want to walk. There’s nothing wrong with my legs.”

Jane pointed at the prone figure on the bed, waggled her forefinger from side to side, and replied with a teasing smile.

“No, Lizzy. You cannot go for a walk. Darcy’s family physician is coming tomorrow. Maybe you can convince him to let you out of this room since Mr. Jones will not.”

“But it’s the first day of 1812! I want to greet the year standing up! This is unfair.”

Jane laughed, a sweet tinkling sound that filled the room with merriment. Molly, the nurse who replaced the maid during the day, chuckled. Finally, Lizzy, eyes dancing with delight, raised both eyebrows, gave Jane a piercing look, and said, “Fine. You must carry me on your back if I cannot walk!”

“Oh, Lizzy. You are too big for that. You’re not two years old anymore. You always wanted a piggyback ride, even when you were six!”

At the outraged expression on Elizabeth’s face, Jane flung herself into a nearby armchair, covered her face, and burst into unrestrained laughter.

Quietly reading by the window, Darcy couldn’t help but join in the laughter that filled the room. The carefree exchange between the sisters provided a welcomed respite from the recent somber atmosphere.

As the laughter subsided, Elizabeth turned her attention to Darcy, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Mr. Darcy, you see the injustice I endure at my sister’s hands. Surely, a walk on the first day of the new year is not too much to ask.”

With a playful glint, Darcy replied, “Miss Elizabeth, I am afraid I must side with your sister on this matter.

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