Just a couple of things. I'm not sure where this story is going. I'm writing this for two reasons. One, I just wanted to prove to myself that I could write and complete a fan fiction. Two, it's just a small thank you to all the wonderful fan fiction writers I've enjoyed over the years. I can say with conviction that I even more respect for and appreciation of all those writers, as this is so much harder than I imagined!
Finally, thank you for reading, for the reviews, and for following. I am truly grateful.
"Good morning, Darcy! Are we the only ones awake?" Richard asked as he sauntered into the dining room.
Looking around the empty table, Darcy muttered, "Obviously."
"Well, you are a cheerful soul this morning!"
"I am considering how best to disabuse Lady Catherine of the notion of me marrying Anne."
"Ah, you have my sympathy!"
Richard wondered briefly whether to ask the obvious question and then plunged in.
"Why now, though?"
"Why not now?"
"Surely there is some reason you're choosing to beard the lioness in her den."
Darcy glared at Richard.
"I'm sure I don't know what you mean."
"Fine, fine, consider the subject closed then. Care for a ride after breakfast?"
"Yes, excellent idea."
"Perhaps we'll run into Miss Bennet."
Darcy looked up suspiciously at Richard.
He frowned and then answered, "Possibly."
Determined to make him talk during the ride, Richard wisely let the subject drop and turned his full attention to his breakfast.
Elizabeth chose most mornings to delay breakfast by going for a walk. Having shared a dining table with Mr. Collins, she was in no hurry to do so again.
As she ambled in the morning sunshine, she happened to remember Lady Catherine's ungracious offer of the piano in Mrs. Jenkinson's room. She wrinkled her nose in disdain. She was alternatively amused and annoyed by Lady Catherine. She wondered briefly what it must be like to be so sure of one's own worth. Laughing quietly to herself, she decided not to waste another moment of the beautiful day thinking of Lady Catherine. Still, the remark rankled.
After a spirited sprint to the very edge of Rosings, Darcy and Richard were allowing their mounts to cool down by walking them slowly back.
"Perhaps we should visit Mrs. Collins today," said Richard.
"You mean Miss Bennet."
"Miss Bennet and Mrs. Collins."
"And Mr. Collins, as well?"
Richard grimaced.
"Gad, I hope not."
"You can't afford her, Richard. You know that."
"I didn't know I intended to afford her," Richard declared, holding back a smile. "What else am I planning, Darcy? Do let me know."
"I'm only warning you not to raise expectations, that's all."
"I, raise expectations? If anyone is raising expectations, it's you!"
Darcy brought his horse up sharply.
"Excuse me? I've done no such thing."
"Darcy, you can't take your eyes off her. You walk in the grove every day determined to meet her. You are clearly taken with her. It's obvious. And why not? You can afford to marry where you please and she is utterly charming. Go to it, man!"