AN: I have received many comments and PMs about my hiatus from writing. Thank you so much for reading, loving and commenting on this story! The excuses I have might not seem significant enough to a bunch of rioting readers, but in general, I wasn't exactly sure where I wanted to take the story. So here is a little something to assure you that I have not given up the story and give you have a little something to hold you until I write a little more…
Ch. 28 New Resolve
Mary and Kitty Bennet found the house so much changed with the absence of their mother and elder sisters. They began to converse amongst themselves and spend more time in each other's company. Recently, they had taken up Elizabeth's custom of walking in the mornings together to discuss a variety of topics and their plans for the day. Kitty commented on the tranquility of the sitting room and the gardens while taking a turn of the park. "I believe I should get lonely if you were not inclined to talk."
Mary nodded, "It is true that I have not always felt so disposed. I am sorry for it. The last several days have been enlightening in many ways." With the absence of so many Bennet women, and with the friendship of Jane and Elizabeth secured, she had spent her mornings and evenings reflecting on her situation. What did Mary want from life? Previously, she believed herself to be invisible and so she welcomed the diversion of scripture and music. She had not considered herself to be worthy of love though, since meeting the new vicar, Mr. Vane, she questioned her desirability.
With the attention of her sisters and father, as well as her temporary duties as the Mistress of Longbourn, Mary's views were evolving and her hopes for the future were growing. She had never had the opportunity, or inclination, to make household decisions before, being the middle sister. Presently, she was not certain that her past endeavors were enough to carry her in the direction she wished to go. Given the opportunity to make household decisions, Mary discovered the task required more attention and creativity than she ever thought it would. She began to consider what it would mean to be the Mistress of her own home and became lost in her musings.
Kitty's commentary brought Mary back to their conversation, "That is certainly true. I cannot believe so much has changed in such a short time. I do hope that you and I find gentlemen who admire and have affection for us." Kitty let out a loud sigh, not noticing Mary's secret smile, and continued her train of thought. "I wonder if Lydia will come for the wedding. We should write to Jane and Lizzy today. I do hope we get a letter from them soon."
Mary's smile grew, lighting her eyes with the glimmer from the sun. She chose not to comment on their younger sisters intentions since she had enjoyed the quiet Lydia's absence allowed, but agreed to write after meeting with the cook.
It was while Mary and Kitty sat at the small table in the drawing room writing to their sisters that a caller was heard. It was the first caller to Longbourn since their mother had left; with Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy in London to be close to their elder sisters and their Aunt Phillips not wishing to visit with them. Miss Lucas had met Kitty in Meryton the day before, but had not called, so the ladies naturally expected Miss Lucas.
Mary was so surprised by the figure that entered the room that she shot out of her seat and spilled ink over the tabletop. "Mr. Vane!"
He smiled nervously eyeing the spread of paper and ink on the table and greeted, "Miss Mary, I do hope my visit did not come at an inopportune time."
Mary looked to her sister, who watched the exchange with a small smile and curious expression as she contained the mess of spilled ink with a square of fabric. She soon replied, "Certainly not. If you care to sit, I –we—should like your company, unless you have come to see our father." She waited for an encouraging response before making the introduction, "May I introduce my sister, Catherine Bennet? It was very thoughtful of you to call."
Mr. Vane bowed and sat close to the ladies to become better acquainted.
P&P
The morning was agreeable to Elizabeth. She spent some time wandering around her uncle's study considering the latest volumes. The quiet, masculine room smelled of books and ink and allowed her the time she required to reflect on the nuisance of opinions of persons so wholly unconnected with her and Darcy. The gossip the night before had caught her off guard so much so that it had the potential to ruin a perfectly nice evening out. Never again, she vowed. I am built of stronger stuff and shall face head-on any more unpleasantness! After all, she reasoned, it is much better to know what is being said to better decipher friends and foes.
A giggle escaped when her thoughts changed course and she thought on how conveniently she and Jane had avoided discussions with their mother since arriving at the Gardiners.
Soon after greeting her young cousins before their lessons, Mrs. Annesley dutifully came to escort her with Jane to the Matlock's London residence. Lady Matlock was delighted when the trio arrived for the early meal which consisted of a nice spread of cakes and preserves, tea and coffee.
"Thank you for the invitation this morning, My Lady." Jane said politely while adding cream to her tea.
Lady Matlock waved away her gratitude, "Nonsense. You will always be welcome. I am glad for the opportunity to know you both better before you leave London."
Elizabeth smiled and believed her future Aunt to be genuine in her desire to know her better; though she also knew that the Lady had a hidden agenda. Soon she could not contain her inquiry, "You were quite insistent on us joining you this morning. Do you anticipate many callers?"
Lady Matlock tilted her head in thought. "I am not certain, of course. However, I did make it plain to several acquaintances that we would be taking callers. I do believe that you have become the object of great curiosity to inquiring minds all over London."
Elizabeth detected a hint of mischief in the Lady's smile. She reflected that her world seemed to be immersed in a social bubble which had heretofore been unknown to her. How strange it is to be the center of society's notice when all I ever envisioned was a lifetime of loving Darcy.
AN: Please leave me your comments and ideas! I enjoy reading them.
