Discretion and Daring: A Pride and Prejudice Variation (Sweet Pride and Prejudice Variations) by Amelia Westerly

Author:Amelia Westerly [Westerly, Amelia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Song Sparrow Press
Published: 2023-07-31T22:00:00+00:00

Chapter Seven

While the food at Pemberley was always delightful, dinner was made all the more appealing to Elizabeth by Mr Darcy’s presence opposite her. Though she spoke rather more to Jane, who sat at her right side, their eyes seemed almost drawn to each other, meeting again and again at each pause in the conversation. Elizabeth wondered at why it should be so. He was handsome, indeed, but then, so was Mr Bingley. And while she conversed easily and pleasantly with that gentleman, she did not feel an almost frightening intensity grip her when their eyes met.

After dinner, she walked beside Jane to the drawing room, speaking little. Both of them in turn well aware of Miss Bingley’s ringing laughter as she swayed alongside Mr Darcy and of Mr Hurst’s loud protestations that this evening, surely they must play at cards.

As they reached the drawing room, they naturally dispersed into the various areas of it, each according to their preferences. Georgiana perched on a dainty chair next to the piano, where she might say little until called upon to play. Mr Hurst made a beeline for the drinks caddy and poured himself a glass of whiskey before the footman had a chance to assist. Miss Bingley remained close to Mr Darcy while he engaged in conversation about matters of business affairs with Mr Bingley.

Elizabeth walked over to the French doors and peered through them at the splendour of Pemberley. Though the light was fading, it was not yet lost, casting beautiful shadows across the steps and terrace.

As she admired the view, she heard footsteps come up behind her and found herself hoping that they would belong to Mr Darcy. As she turned enough to see who it was and saw elegantly pinned-back fair hair and a sly expression on a pretty face, she couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment.

“Miss Bennet, how you amuse us all with your marvelling over such odd things. It is almost dark out there, what could possibly be of such interest?” Miss Bingley chuckled as she peered at Elizabeth with a sharp glint in her eyes.

“I suppose it is rather peculiar,” Elizabeth agreed with a small laugh. “It is only that I find there is so much mystery in the world at this time. Pemberley looks quite strange in the fading light, albeit as beautiful as ever. It is as though the world is preparing for a new day, even though this one is not yet done.” Elizabeth turned back to the spreading shadows and the glowing sky, momentarily forgetting Caroline Bingley entirely.

But that lady would not allow herself to be long forgotten. “Oh, Miss Bennet, how funny you are,” she laughed, then gripped onto Elizabeth’s arm. “You will walk with me around the room, won’t you?”

Elizabeth couldn’t help but give a look of surprise at such an unexpected request. Courtesy and manners dictated her answer.

“Of course, I would be delighted.”

Miss Bingley looped her arm through Elizabeth’s. As they began walking past the array

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