Chapter 14- Calm before the storm
The next morning, the storm cleared up. The skies looked bright and sunny.
Miss Bingley was in great spirits.
During breakfast, she started her plans for the picnic.
"Charles, the rain has stopped we can on the picnic today. I will ask the cook to prepare for the luncheon."
"Caroline, it is not possible today. The roads will be horrendous for travel. It should be safe to go tomorrow."
Miss Bingley was irritated. She wanted to hold the reigns to her brother's decisions. She loved playing the hostess of Netherfield. But she always wanted to be the mistress of Pemberley.
"Mr Bingley, we have plans for shooting with Sir Lucas tomorrow. Are you comfortable sending the ladies alone?" Richard asked. Darcy had the same concern.
"Yes! I have enquired about the lake. It seems to be close by, and we can ride to it after our shooting plans. We can join the ladies for their luncheon."
Georgiana was excited. She felt happy to spend time with Elizabeth and Jane.
"Lizzy, I will miss you once you go back to Longbourne."
"Oh! Georgiana me too. But you can call on me often. I would love to take you to Oakham mount. The view is beautiful."
"I hope to stay here for a few more weeks. I hope we do not leave to Pemberley soon. I need to discuss with William about our plans."
Elizabeth hoped Georgiana would extend her stay as well. When she mentioned about Pemberley, she was intrigued. She longed to see Pemberley for herself. Georgiana had spoken much about the beauty of the gardens and the woods.
Darcy was observing his sister and Elizabeth. He knew both of them had formed a strong bond. He made up his mind to talk to Elizabeth soon and tell her about his feelings. He was sure she did not detest him as before.
Richard had been a keen observer of both Darcy and Elizabeth. He hoped things would turn out well for his cousin. Richard himself was thinking about matrimony. He was inclined towards Charlotte. The few times he had met her, he liked her. She was simple and sensible. He enjoyed his conversations with her and was wanting to spend more time in her company.
On the other hand, Mr Bingley was deeply in love with Jane, and he was sure she returned his feelings. Jane felt the same way about him.
The day passed swiftly.
In the evening Georgiana asked Darcy about their plans to go back to Pemberley.
"William, when are you planning to send me to Pemberley? Will you join me there? I know Richard plans to come?"
"Do you want to leave soon Georgiana?"
"No! I do not." She cried.
Darcy laughed. "Sweetling you must understand once your "Lizzy" leaves, Netherfield may not be that exciting for you."
"I know. At least I may be able to call on her, go for a walk. I could meet her every day."
"I am sure you will Georgi. Do not worry. I have not made any plans as of now. Bingley wants me to stay here longer. We can decide after a few weeks."
"I am so happy William. I was scared you would send me to Pemberley. I love Pemberley, but it is not the same without you. I wish Lizzy could visit us there. Can I invite her?"
"Of course, you can. I will personally invite her as well. I am sure Pemberley will be happier when you have her company."
"Can we invite her for Christmas?"
I want to invite her to stay forever, Georgiana.
"Sure, you can."
During dinner, the plans for the picnic were finalised.
Miss Bingley meticulously planned every detail. She chose a grand dress and hoped the ground would not be very wet.
The Netherfield residents were happy and excited, except one.
Mrs Hurst was not in great spirits. She had been feeling tired, both mentally and physically.
Her husband was concerned for her.
"Louisa, if you are not up to it, you can stay home and take rest. You need not go for the picnic."
"No! Caroline needs me. I need to go."
"For God sake Louisa, it is not a ball to plan for. It is just a picnic. I wish you would for once put your needs ahead of hers. You need not please her all your life."
"I should be alright. Miss Elizabeth and her sister are coming too. I should be alright."
"Look at them, Louisa. That is how sisters should be. Caroline just seems to use you for her schemes, and she does not even care for you."
Deep within Mrs Hurst knew her husband was right. But she defended her sister.
"No, do not say that. Caroline may not show her feelings openly. But she would do anything for me if I was in need. She cares for me. I know that."
Mrs Hurst never knew that her sister was going to prove her wrong the very next day and show her that all she cared about was about herself. Yes! Never.