Chapter 2: A conversation in Netherfield
"Darcy" exclaimed Bingley shaking the hand of his friend "I was not expecting you so soon. What compelled you to come back so early?"
"It was for Elizabeth" he thought.
"Well", Darcy said aloud "My business was nearly finished and I can postpone the rest, which was not very important. But Bingley, let me congratulate for your engagement to Miss Bennet"
Bingley grinned widely: "Thank you, my friend. I could not be happier. My dearest Jane loves me as much as I do her. She is a true angel. In fact, she is here at Netherfield. Would you like to see her?"
"Of course, I will be glad to greet her. Come on, let us go."
Jane greeted Darcy with her usual genuine charm and kindness. Darcy was convinced she would be the perfect match for Bingley.
The three adjourned to the drawing room and Bingley rang for tea. Darcy decided to talk to Jane, whom he really wanted to know better. After all he had rarely spoken with her. And maybe it would please her younger sister if she learned about that, because he knew they were very close.
"Miss Jane, may I enquire to the health of your family?"
"I thank you, sir. They are all in excellent health. But I am a bit worried about Lizzy though."
Darcy's heart began to beat faster, as it did every time Elizabeth's name was mentioned, and for the fear she would be ill "I hope Miss Bennet is not seriously ill!"
Jane glanced at Darcy. His face betrayed everything he felt for Elizabeth. Darcy was aware of the fact, but he couldn't help himself. Jane smiled at Bingley knowingly before answering:
"Oh no, do not distress yourself Mr. Darcy. I only thought that because these last days she was unusually quiet and not so cheerful. But she assured me she was quite well."
Why was she a little out of spirits? Perhaps her thoughts were elsewhere and flying like me? Did she reflect on...me?
At this moment the butler, Fosset, entered and announced "Miss Elizabeth Bennet, sir."