AN: I KNOW, I KNOW, I KNOW… I haven't posted in a while. I LOVE your reviews and encouragement. The truth is that I had a little trouble being inspired for this one and my creative button was stuck. And I actually wrote the majority of this chapter months ago… sorry, I'm sure that didn't make you feel any less angst.
Previously: The men are searching for a husband for Caroline and Darcy met Mr. Jenkinson. A walk in the park and a Wickham-worry-free Georgiana.
Ch. 36 – The Ball Belles
The Torrington ball began as expected. The assembly line lasted long enough to greet and compliment the hosts who dressed to their advantage. Elizabeth was glad that she had been previously introduced so she could smile under the discerning—and once she noticed Elizabeth and Darcy, triumphant — eye of Lady Torrington and the bored one of her husband, who looked on through his monocle as if evaluating bugs beneath a microscope.
"I do hope I met with approval," Elizabeth said aside to Darcy as they moved to the ballroom. "No dirt on my cheeks or tar in my hair since we left?"
He shook his head in a negative fashion and murmured, "You are beautiful and enchanting as always, tonight especially."
She laughed, her eyes twinkled as she returned with, "I am not inclined to ever disagree on the subject; nor will I ever call attention to your failing eyesight."
Prior to their arrival it was decided that Elizabeth and Darcy would dance the first, last and—he insisted—the supper set. She had also insisted on dancing a dance with Bingley and her uncle, who were both willing partners.
As there was time to mingle amongst the crowd, while the musicians sat organizing their music and tuning their instruments, Elizabeth allowed Darcy to lead her into the room to observe the atmosphere and the parading guests. The number of candles that were lit to contribute to the lighting was staggering; there were two large chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, sconces adorned the walls, candles on shelves and tables setting off illuminated the flower bouquets and fashion decorating the guests.
Jane and Bingley smiled at each other and Mrs. Bennet as she praised the room. Elizabeth tried to temper her mother's effusions with no luck. Her mother simply said, "Hush, Lizzy. You entertain your man and mind your own self."
Darcy frowned at that, refraining from commenting, he touched Elizabeth's elbow and escorted her further into the room away from Mrs. Bennet. Elizabeth looked away from him in embarrassment. What was one to say or do to apologize for such a trying relation? Although she was sorry for her mother's behavior, Elizabeth reasoned that at least she was accustomed to her unguarded tongue. Darcy, however, was not and was willing to marry her while gaining such a mother!
Before Darcy was able to say any words of consolation or remark on the room to engage Elizabeth in conversation, they were approached by two ladies. "Why, Miss Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy! I am so glad to see you here." Elizabeth looked up and raised her brow at Lady Lamb as she continued to introduce her companion. "I told you she was charming, did I not, Harriet? Miss Elizabeth, allow me to introduce my dear cousin, Countess Granville, to you. I believe you have met the illustrious Mr. Darcy of Pemberley before."
The ladies curtseyed and Mr. Darcy nodded in acknowledgement as Countess Granville said, "I am so happy to make your acquaintance, Miss Elizabeth. I was awfully disappointed to hear that I have missed you at the Townshend dinner party that my cousin attended. I am sure that you understand the importance of being seen at certain events. Unfortunately I could not persuade my husband away from the party with his political friends that night. I assure you that I would have much rather have been there to hear Lord Byron; having to smile and listen to the endless conversations on France and the Americas can become quite tiresome after a time."
Darcy was not impressed and looked over to the musicians, willing them to begin the first set. The irony was not lost on him when Elizabeth smirked at him before answering the Ladies waiting on her. "I do understand. Our time in London has been a whirlwind, I am certain there will be many occasions in the future to enjoy conversation."
"Oh yes, quite," replied Lady Lamb as she fanned herself.
The Ladies were gone as quick as they appeared, waving to another acquaintance that just arrived.
Darcy sighed earning a laugh from his betrothed.
When the dancing commenced the ballroom radiated with the gaiety of young guests, new loves and gossip. Mrs. Bennet held court at a conversational grouping of chairs with Mrs. Gardiner close by to steer conversation. Many curious guests approached Mrs. Bennet for an introduction wondering at her luck in securing Darcy for her dowerless daughter.
Elizabeth had mixed feelings on her mother's presence at the ball. She was gratified that her mother seemed so happy among new acquaintances. She was also glad to be dancing so she did not have an occasion to overhear any conversations taking place; which also was concerning for her and caused her some little anxiety as she wondered what her mother could be saying.
Fitzwilliam Darcy stood close to the line of dancers observing Elizabeth after he dutifully danced with Jane. He nodded at acquaintances and discouraged well-wishers from approaching him with his stoic mien. He would have been content to stand in that attitude awaiting the supper set had he not observed Miss Bingley's entrance with a flourish, obviously hunting for a particular guest. He sincerely hoped that she was not seeking his attention.
Darcy moved to attract Bingley's attention, before retracing his steps to approach his cousin instead. "Fitzwilliam, I see that you did, indeed, come tonight."
The Colonel smirked and winked, "Of course! Did you doubt my chaperoning abilities? My parents should be here shortly, I imagine."
Darcy nodded, observing Miss Bingley, in her peach attire and feathers, strut across the room with her odd behavior. "You were successful in your earlier endeavor?"
Fitzwilliam also noticed Miss Bingley searching the room followed by an annoyed Mrs. Hurst dressed in a more inconspicuous costume than her sister. "I believe that I have located some options for Bingley. I shall know more tomorrow and might even be able to offer him a choice of candidates."
"That is splendid news. I am sure that he anticipates meeting with you in the morning. However, I am curious; what on earth is Miss Bingley doing here? I understood that she would not be included in any invitations."
The Colonel shook his head, "Never underestimate the power of a willful woman, dear cousin." This comment, much to his amusement, earned him a snort and narrowed eye from his cousin.
Caroline had threatened her sister to live under her roof forever if she did not accompany her to the ball hosted by the Viscount and Viscountess. She was certain that her close friendship with Mr. Darcy and the Bennets would ensure her popularity and she might 'accidently' bump into a wealthy Mr. Henry Monroe as well, since everyone of consequence had been invited.
The gentleman being sought after also observed Caroline's search about the room as she occasionally stopped to greet acquaintances before continuing on around the dancers. Mr. Monroe had finished a dance with his married cousin and stood behind the musicians enjoying the music and a glass of claret wine. He was only slightly interested in who the woman was looking for, though he did enjoy the manner in which she moved about the room and the rise of her chin as she conversed with Mrs. Hurst, who followed in her wake. He resolved to ask her to dance the supper set once she made her way to his corner of the room. There was no need for him to adjust his current location since she was sure to make her way to him eventually.
Jane and Bingley chose to keep to themselves prior to the dance set before supper. Without noticing Caroline's presence, Bingley escorted his betrothed onto the open veranda behind the musicians. The night had a chill, though it felt refreshing away from the crowded room and dancing.
"Jane dearest, I should ask you more, are you happy?"
Jane smiled, "Of course I am. I have a perfectly handsome, amiable gentleman who loves me at my side. There is also the promise of more dances throughout the night."
Bingley nodded, "I am glad. I have not had the opportunity to talk privately with you to bring up a particularly unpleasant subject. It is possible that I have been avoiding the subject altogether." She waited patiently for him to find the right words. "I do hope you will not think badly of me. I have been seeking a man who might willingly marry my sister."
Jane smiled, "That is your duty, Charles."
He shook his head, "You misunderstand me. Yes, I have been encouraging Caroline to consider her future. However, I have been inquiring about, with the Colonel's help, to find a gentleman who would willingly marry her."
Now Jane looked concerned. "You would force your sister to marry without affection? How could you?"
Bingley took a deep breath to find the courage to confess his plan. "It was never my intention to do so. However, I am now presented with a choice. Caroline would either be living in our household or would have to be set up in her own house. Louisa and Hurst do not want her in their home; they are hoping to have a family. If I release her dowry to her, in the care of a solicitor, there will be little chance of her ever marrying." He was watching her closely as she absorbed the information he presented her with.
"As much as I cherish the thought of beginning our life alone together, I am saddened that your sister might be placed in a position without similar felicity. You offered your hand because you care for me, and yet you are taking away her choice in the matter. I do not know what to think, Charles." How was she to feel knowing that she possessed the peace of a love-matched relationship, her future sister was sentenced to suffer a forced marriage without regard?
Bingley felt bad that he had ruined her evening with such a wretched subject. The look in her eyes hinted at her confusion and hurt, stabbing his heart. To lighten the mood he said, "Please do not be sad, dearest. Let us dance and enjoy the merriment before supper." He kissed her hand and led her back into the ballroom to take their place in the supper set close to Elizabeth and Darcy.
Elizabeth recognized from Jane's expression that she was troubled; however when the music commenced and the look in Darcy's eyes brightened in admiration while observing at her movements, Elizabeth spared no thoughts for her sister's sentiments as she became lost in the moment.
Jane felt the need for her sister's counsel. She was able to wait until the set finished out of consideration for her betrothed and her sister. Not that she felt ready to share the entire conversation with her, yet she was still compelled to speak with her. "Lizzy," she said taking her sister's arm and leading her outside away from Darcy and supper.
Once they were away from prying ears, Jane was not certain what to say to Elizabeth's questioning gaze. "Are you enjoying yourself?"
Her sister laughed, "You brought me away from the party to ask about my evening?" Elizabeth shook her head, calming her laughter and considering her sister, "I find dancing with Fitzwilliam very agreeable. What of you, Jane? What has you flustered so?"
Jane shook her head with frustration. "I am not certain how to answer your question. I know that I am disturbed by some news; however I have had some moments to absorb the intelligence Charles shared with me, and now feel more confused and selfish." Her conflicting emotions clashed with one another. She was upset that her betrothed would take away his sister's choice in a husband when he had so recently made his own choice in her. She was sad that he would sell his sister away. She was pleased that Caroline would be settled soon with a household so that she might begin a marriage with her own. Jane was also unsure of how to express herself to Bingley.
"Jane, I do not believe you to be selfish in anything."
"You are wrong, Lizzy. I am your sister, after all."
Elizabeth laughed and embraced her sister before replying, "You are so teasing this evening. You are aware that you shall not divert the conversation by calling me selfish, are you not?"
Jane shook her head with a small smile, glad that she had a moment with her sister before joining the party once again. "We shall talk more later so that I may order my thoughts. For now, we should join our family in the dining room, do you agree?"
As the ladies talked outside the ballroom, Darcy found Bingley conversing with Colonel Fitzwilliam and stood with them listening as they exchanged pleasantries and commented on the music.
When an opening in the conversation presented itself, Darcy asked, "Bingley, is all well?"
Bingley frowned, "Of course!"
"I meant to ask is all well with your betrothed and your sister."
"I expect Jane to return soon with Miss Elizabeth. Why would you ask after my sister?"
Darcy felt a moment of frustration, even with his understanding of how unobservant Bingley was when in Jane's presence. "Both of your sisters are here tonight."
Bingley began looking at the faces around him. "Are you certain? I am surprised Louisa escorted her here without me." He spotted Caroline on the arm of an unknown man leading to the dining room, followed by his married sister. "I'll say, you are right, Darcy! I wonder who has been caught for her dinner partner."
"If you are lucky, perhaps she has found her own match and saved you much trouble," was the dry response.
The Colonel laughed, "No one could be that lucky, Darcy!"
Jane and Elizabeth were soon absorbed by their circle and led to the dining room. It was an enjoyable meal. All their relatives had already found seats at another table. They sat with four couples unknown to Jane and Elizabeth who preferred to converse amongst themselves with only occasional glances in Elizabeth's direction; which suited them fine, leaving the lovers to converse quietly, steal light touches, and gaze into each other's eyes.
Meanwhile, across the room Miss Bingley was an enraptured participant in private discourse with Mr. Monroe. They spoke of other parties and friends, weather and their travels, finding some common views to keep the conversation interesting to both individuals; although, Caroline Bingley's opinion has proved to be malleable when she is eager to please.
Mr. Monroe found himself enjoying the evening far beyond expectations in the company of Miss Bingley. He understood that she possessed her own fortune and independent view of the world, was close to the Darcy's of Pemberley, and will be the last of her siblings to marry. He particularly admired the sense of adventure that she proclaimed with her enthusiasm for society and travel. A 'sense of adventure' was high on his conceptual list as a desired quality in a wife—not that he was currently looking for a life partner.
Mrs. Hurst had long past wandered away to converse with acquaintances that treated her with more genuine respect than Caroline could muster for her sister. She did keep a watchful eye on her exasperating sister and caught her brother's eye at one point during the night, shrugging in response to his silent question and raised brows.
AN: So much was going on here! Hopefully I was able to express it well enough for you. What do you think about the rest of the night? Would you rather hear about it in reminisce or should I just continue from here?
Only a little while left in a social-whirl London… they leave at the end of the week.
I will try to stick to a posting/writing schedule. Unlike some stories posted on this site, this story is still in the works and not written beyond what you are reading. Please be patient with me. To my faithful readers… THANK YOU! You are the best!
