I am looking for a beta reader for this story. To me, there are no better people than the Austen fans here. You guys are so full of passion and knowledge and I would appreciate your help. If you are interested, please let me know!
That same night Darcy and Elizabeth had their talk was the night of the much anticipated Netherfield Ball. Elizabeth was looking forward to it just as all of her family, with possibly the exception of her father.
With the new upsets in Elizabeth's life, she was suddenly in no mood for the merriment of a ball. It was a disappointment that she would miss it, and possibly see the happiness of her dear Jane dancing and talking with Mr. Bingley, but she knew that her mood was not suitable for a ball and she would do little else than bring those around her down with her.
There was also the not so small matter of wanting to avoid the stares she knew would welcome her. The people of Meryton had to have heard all of the gossip about her and Mr. Darcy being found together in the morning after the storm and the announcement of their pending nuptials had not happen yet, so anywhere Elizabeth went was sure to be full of whispers.
After the betrothal announcement and even after the wedding, rumors would likely still circulate until a bigger scandal surfaced. In a small county such as Elizabeth's home, that was not likely to happen soon. Elizabeth could very well be the subject of gossip for years.
It relieved her that after the wedding she would be whisked away to Mr. Darcy's home. There she was less likely to be under constant scrutiny and under judgmental eyes.
Elizabeth was retiring to her room amidst the screams of her delighted sisters, all of whom were excited to prepare for the ball, when her mother waylaid her.
"Lizzy, why have you not started to get yourself ready for the ball?"
"I am afraid I am not going. I must beg off with a severe headache."
"But think of what a handsome pair you and Jane will be with Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley on your arms."
"It will have to be a pleasure we must wait to see. I will not be any good company if I were to join you all tonight."
Jane approached the two of them. "Oh no, Lizzy. Please say it is untrue that you will not be joining us tonight."
"As much as I wish it wasn't true, sister, it is. I am feeling unwell."
"If you are unwell, then you mustn't come."
Jane took Elizabeth by the elbow and guided her away from their mother.
"Thank you for your help in relieving me from what I feared to be an eternal questioning of my motives."
"Do you really have a headache?" Jane gave her sister a look that told Elizabeth she did not believe her story about why she was avoiding the ball. "I would understand if you feigned illness to avoid the ball. There are going to be many people there talking about what happened."
"While what you say is true, and is admittedly part of the reason I do wish to refrain from participating at the ball, I do suddenly feel a headache coming on from thinking about the entire thing.
The two reached Elizabeth's door and paused in front of it. "You know you will have to face people eventually."
Elizabeth sighed. "I know. But for tonight, I must beg that you let me hide away."
"Of course. I hope you feel better." Jane leaned in and gave her sister a peck on the cheek before leaving Elizabeth alone on the landing with her thoughts.