Hi all,Thank you so much for the lovely reviews.
One reviewer pointed out that Lizzie wouldn't have winked at Mr Darcy or said the word 'Brilliant'; she probably wouldn't have, but they were the phrases that suited what I was trying to convey. I wasn't born in the regency era and as such it is easier to convey certain ideas using more modern mannerisms as a baseline.
Rant over.
On with the story,
Heaven x
Dinner that evening at Netherfield was an interesting affair; Mr Bingley opened the conversation by asking how his guests had spent their day, explaining that he hoped they had found sufficient activity to keep them entertained.
"Thank you Mr Bingley, I spent most of the day reading," explained Kitty who had used the book as a means of escaping Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst after finding her sister teaching Mr Darcy sign language, not wanting to interrupt.
"I played the pianoforte for a while and then taught Mr Darcy some sign language, Mr Bingley," began Elizabeth, only to be interrupted by Bingley; fortunately she was looking directly at him and saw that he was speaking.
"Did you really? How fascinating! Do you think you could teach me as well; it seems rather interesting when I watch yourself or Miss Catherine signing."
Both Lizzie and Kitty had a slight blush on their cheeks as Lizzie replied.
"I wouldn't mind teaching you too, Mr Bingley, but if I am to teach two of you, I may need Kitty's help." Turning to Kitty, Lizzie questioned whether her sister would mind aiding the endeavour
"It sounds fun Lizzie, of course I wouldn't mind." Kitty was actually looking forward to it, hoping she could distract Mr Bingley slightly to allow her sister and Mr Darcy the opportunity to become closer. They seemed well suited and Kitty wanted her sister to take a chance at finding love with someone who took the time to try to understand her.
Further down the table, Miss Bingley fumed quietly to her sister. How dare these country chits come into her brother's house and monopolise the attention of her Mr Darcy. Mrs Hurst merely hummed noncomittally, secretly pleased that her brother seemed to be weakening Caroline's influence on him unconsciously, but also aware that her sister expected her to share her opinion.
Mr Darcy noticed Miss Bingley sending Elizabeth angry glares while talking quietly to Mrs Hurst, so nudged Elizabeth's foot with his own. When she looked at him, he made the sign for Miss Bingley and the signs for talking and Mrs Hurst respectively, hoping that she would get the hint.
Elizabeth glanced quickly down the table and caught a glimpse of what Mr Darcy had been referring to. She nodded to show her understanding before smirking slightly and addressing Miss Bingley.
"Miss Bingley, I feel that we are neglecting you and Mrs Hurst. Pray tell, would either of you care to join these signing lessons?"
Before Caroline could even open her mouth, Elizabeth knew her answer; she was more interested in Mrs Hurst's response, as she seemed slightly introverted.
"Actually Miss Elizabeth, I think that is a wonderful idea. I always liked finding something new to entertain me when the weather restricts other activities."
Unknown to her sister, Mrs Hurst greatly enjoyed painting outside and arranging fresh flowers, so the current weather greatly hindered her favoured passtimes. She also saw the benefits of engaging in activities that her sister thought below her, as they gave her the chance to be alone.
Miss Bingley sent her sister an angry side glance before turning to Elizabeth and saying that she would rather find other employments for herself.
Mr Hurst had watched the whole situation with great amusement and was proud of his wife for agreeing to the lessons. He liked the idea of her spending less time around the pomp and false society that surrounded her shrew of a sister.
"Would I be granted permission to join these lessons Miss Elizabeth, Miss Catherine; or am I doomed to learn second hand from my wife?"
Kitty looked horrified at the idea of having accidentally not invited the gentleman, however Lizzie had seen his amusement on his face so knew that he was making sport of the situation.
"Indeed Mr Hurst," replied Lizzie, "since you were so open in your conversations last night at Lucas Lodge, I rather believed that if you had the inclination to join us you would ask directly, instead of waiting to be asked. I will however say that your company would not be unwelcome."
"Miss Elizabeth, I will admit that I do prefer asking for things myself, as I find satisfaction in seeing the discomfort of others at my boldness. I believe I shall join these lessons, as no lesson would be complete without a bold pupil willing to question everything."
All those at the table, excluding Miss Bingley, were looking forward to the opportunity to enjoy each other's company while engaging in a new activity. All felt significant gratitude that Miss Bingley was predictable in her refusal to join them. They arranged to have the first lesson in the drawing room after dinner and then continued with their respective meals.
