That could not be!

by ldibo

The last five years, Elizabeth Bennet's life was a succession of misfortunes. Her dear sister Jane was the one who gave her the strength to get ahead in the saddest moments of her life and later little Rose. This is not a light story, it is a story about family, infidelity, adversities, and unconditional love. English is not my first language (story unedited). E&D HEA

57. Chapter 57

17th June 1817

Pemberley Derbyshire

My love,

You can't imagine how much I miss you, and how frustrated I am right now. Unfortunately, a few hours ago there was an incident with a tenant, and as a consequence, I have several injuries. Although none of them are serious, I severely sprained my right ankle and it hurts when I walk. Fortunately, according to the apothecary, I have no fractures, but I must rest for at least four weeks for the ankle to recover properly.

I am sad and disappointed because next week I cannot go to London and what I want most in this world is to be with you and never be separated again. I want you to come to Pemberley with Mrs. Barton and Rose after Richard's wedding.

If you say yes, in addition to making my dream come true, I can send my best carriage with two footmen to London so you don't travel unprotected. I would make reservations at the best inns along the route so you can rest properly.

My love, I am sure you will love Pemberley. We can get married here, in a small celebration. If Mrs. Barton wishes, she can live with us, and I am sure Rose and Anne will be like sisters.

I love you,

Fitzwilliam Darcy

"By your face, something is wrong." Mrs. Barton commented when she saw the changes in Elizabeth's countenance upon reading Mr. Darcy's letter.

Elizabeth nodded, "Darcy was injured, and won't come to London for several weeks." She took a deep breath, "He wants us to go to Pemberley after his cousin's wedding… He even offers to send one of his carriages with two footmen."

"I hope it's nothing serious."

"Fortunately, his letter says it's nothing serious, but he sprained his ankle badly." She sighed sadly, "I hope he recovers soon."

Mrs. Barton looked into Elizabeth's eyes and asked, "Do you want to go to Pemberley?"

She sighed and shook her head, "I want to talk to him, but I'd rather talk in London… I know I promised you that I would listen to him without prejudice, but every time I think he shared such intimate moments with Mrs. Smith, I feel anger, frustration, jealousy… I wish I had never found out!"

"Elizabeth, what you are feeling is normal since you have strong feelings for Mr. Darcy." She squeezed Elizabeth's hand, "You shouldn't let that woman affect your life like that, that's probably what she wants."

"I know you are right, and I must first listen to Mr. Darcy before jumping to conclusions..."

Mrs. Barton nodded, "Exactly, take your time and think about it."

After some serious thought, that same afternoon, Elizabeth wrote back to Darcy and agreed to travel to Pemberley two days after Richard's wedding.

The next day, to Elizabeth's surprise, General Fitzwilliam and Eleanor brought an invitation for her and Mrs. Barton to their engagement party three days later at the Matlocks'.

Elizabeth had no desire to attend, since from what little she knew of Lady Matlock, she did not like the idea of seeing her again, much less going to her house. But due to Eleonor's insistence and to a lesser extent General Fitzwilliam, she ended up accepting the invitation.