Thank you for the reviews and follows. I really appreciate your comments. I originally thought of this story years ago and only envisioned it to be a comical one-shot. But I am practising, as per Lady Catherine's advice, so I will try to expand a bit. Part of the scene I have often imagined is coming in the chapter after this.
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Darcy found Charles in his study. His friend was seated on his armchair with a goofy smile on his face.
"Darce, how do you fare on this fine day?"
Why is he in good spirits all the time?
"I am well, thank you," he started. "No. Actually... I am somewhat unsettled. There is something I need to talk to you about."
Charles peered at him closely. It was unusual for his friend to be in such a confused state. He knew that something must be bothering him.
"What is it? How can I be of service?"
Darcy was unsure how he was he going to explain that he intended to leave Netherfield soon. Knowing that he promised to help his friend learn the ropes of running an estate, he now felt somewhat guilty with his decision. After a few moments of hesitation, he thought to just push through with his earlier resolution. The sooner he left, the better.
"I am thinking of departing for Pemberley."
"I see. I hope there is no emergency. Are you leaving because of Georgiana?"
Thank you for giving me the perfect excuse.
"Ah, no emergency. But I do miss Georgiana and I have matters of business to discuss with my steward."
"When are you thinking of leaving?"
"I was hoping to leave first thing in the morning, unless you still require my assistance."
"Oh? I did not expect you to depart so soon. However, I cannot hold you back. I am grateful as it is for your time in coming with me here. Caroline will not be pleased though."
"Bingley, I hope you understand that I do not care for your sister that way."
"I am fully aware, Darce. I am impressed that you tolerate her so well and you have not lost your temper over her incessant fawning. You are close to sainthood."
"I am trying my best to be patient with your sister but she does not seem to get the hint. You are my friend and I do not want to cause offence."
"Well, you have my permission to be blunt with her otherwise she will never leave you be. Perhaps you need to find a wife. That might finally deter her. Oh dear, she will now turn on me after you leave. I do love my sister but she can be too much."
Another good reason for me to escape.
"Just buy her more feathers. That would soon placate her."
"Ha! Very funny. I am afraid she might fly away if she had more feathers on her bonnet. Shall we call at Longbourn today so you can take your leave?"
"I do not believe there is a need. I am not particularly attached to the Bennet family."
That is a lie! But it is true... I am not officially attached to them, even though I wish I could be to Elizabeth.
"It is the polite thing to do, Darce. They are my neighbours."
"Very well, we can make a quick call but I would rather be making preparations to leave. How about you, are you planning on leaving soon?"
"What? I have no such plans. I find that quite like Hertfordshire. The countryfolk are warm and welcoming."
"Or do you mean you like Miss Bennet?"
"You know me too well, my friend. You are correct. I am very much taken with her. She is all that is good. She is an angel."
"I hate to ask you this, Bingley, but is she the sole reason you are staying? There is not much to recommend from this area. There are only four-and-twenty families to associate with and the company is confined and unvarying."
"I would like to get to know Miss Bennet better. I am thinking of asking her for a courtship."
"I am not sure that is wise."
"Whatever do you mean? Is there something I should know? My Jane is all beauty and grace. She has the kindest soul. I will be so fortunate indeed if she accepts me."
"She may be all that in your eyes, but do you know how she feels? Has she given you any signs?"
"She appears happy when we are together. She always smiles at me. And we have enjoyed several dances now."
"Bingley, she is always smiling. At anyone. Has she said or done anything to make you certain that she has any affection for you?"
"Well… no… not exactly. But she may just be shy and reserved. It is not very becoming of a lady to be forward."
If only Miss Bingley knew that...
"I do not consider the Bennets to be the epitome of shyness and reservation, Bingley."
"Why are you telling me this now, Darce? Do you not think Miss Bennet and I will make a good match? Have you any objections to her?"
Yes, she smiles too much. But that sounds very shallow.
"I am not objecting, Bingley, and I have no right to. I am only concerned for your sake. Do not get me wrong, but you have taken a fancy to quite a number of ladies in town. Nothing ever progressed further than friendship and you do not seem too affected by the loss of their company."
"Perhaps I just have not met the right one before. I truly feel that Miss Bennet is my match."
You are both so naive and good-natured. Your servants will take advantage of your kindness and you will be none the wiser.
"I do not wish to see you trapped into a marriage that her mother so obviously wants for her. I would advise you to be careful."
"I understand, Darce. I do like her, so very much. I think I am already halfway in love with her. I will observe her reactions more closely when we call today."
"The decision is yours, Bingley. I am just looking out for you as a friend."