I've decided to see where this story takes me. I hope you enjoy.
~~J~~
Darcy's face lit up at her words. While it was not exactly the outcome he had wished for, at least he now had a glimmer of hope.
Since Elizabeth had pointed out his flaws, he was aware that he was imperfect, but he knew that on the whole he was a decent man. If he could show that side of himself to her, there was a chance that she might change her mind about him.
There was a risk, of course. For Elizabeth to see his true self, he would have to drop his mask, an action which would leave him vulnerable, and he could get badly hurt in the process.
But he was already hurt by her rejection. How much worse could it be? At least there would be a chance for happiness.
'Thank you, Miss Elizabeth, I appreciate your clemency.' He hesitated a moment before he continued. 'As I am certain that you have been told, Lady Catherine has been urging me to marry my cousin, even though neither of us is inclined towards the other. If she became aware of my interest in you, she would take it upon herself to make your life difficult. In light of that fact, since I had planned on leaving tomorrow, I believe that is still a prudent decision. But if I might be allowed to call on you when you return to London?'
'Do you truly wish to visit Cheapside, Mr Darcy?'
'I am prepared to brave Longbourn and Mrs Bennet's effusions, if doing so, provides me with the opportunity to spend time in your company.' Darcy replied with a small smile, hoping that Elizabeth would not take offense.
Darcy was correct in being worried. At his words, Elizabeth started to bristle, but his hesitant smile took the sting out of his words, and the lady was able to give a small laugh. 'I suspect you will have to make good on this offer, since I will remain in London for only one week, before Jane and I return to Longbourn. But while we are in Town, I shall be pleased to introduce you to my Aunt and Uncle Gardiner.'
Elizabeth provided Darcy with the address in Gracechurch Street, whereupon he looked puzzled. 'Why did you say your relations lived in Cheapside? Gracechurch Street is at last a mile outside that area.'
'For some people twenty miles is too close,' Elizabeth grinned at him, reminding him of the scene at Netherfield, where Miss Bingley had harped on about the Bennet's relations in Cheapside.
'I suppose that geography was never Miss Bingley's strong suit.' Darcy returned the grin, and requested. 'I would like to bring my sister to meet you, if that is acceptable to you?'
Elizabeth was amazed. Where was the proud and disagreeable man, whom she had known for all these months? She knew how protective Mr Darcy was of his sister, and now he wanted to bring said sister to meet her? There was only one answer she could give. 'I would be delighted to meet your sister, Mr Darcy.'
They could not get further in their conversation, since Mrs Collins approached them to remind them of the time. 'I am sorry, but I need to return, to attend to my duties.'
Darcy escorted the ladies back to the parsonage in much better spirits than at the beginning of their walk.
~~J~~
Jest (working title) by Sydney Salier, Copyright © 2021