"I value the friend who for me finds time on his calendar, but I cherish the friend who for me does not consult his calendar." - Robert Brault

Chapter 2

Bingley returned just moments after the mysterious beauty escaped the room. Darcy decided against questioning his friend about the odd encounter and focused his attention on Bingley's obvious enthusiasm for his new property. After all, surely the introductions would be made if the lady remained at the Bingley townhouse.

Once the gentlemen had sufficiently discussed the value of one crop versus another, they ventured across the hall into the parlor where feminine voices could be heard. Immediately upon their entrance, all eyes were upon Darcy. Some welcome, and others not.

"Ladies, I hope that we are not interrupting your tea but I have brought my errant friend home and wish to present my blushing bride." Bingley said as he crossed the room to a stunning woman. Bingley introduced Darcy to his wife.

As Darcy bowed over Mrs. Bingley's hand, she smiled warmly at him.

"It is certainly a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance, Mr. Darcy."

"The pleasure is mine, I assure you, Mrs. Bingley."

"Please, join us. I will just ring for some fresh tea." Jane said as she signaled the servant.

"Mr. Darcy! It is so very good to see you again, sir." Caroline Bingley glided fluidly next to Darcy holding out her hand. Darcy cringed slightly at her wide smile and performed the necessary bow before replying.

"Good day to you, Miss Bingley."

"It has been just ages since we have had your company, sir. I was just saying so yesterday to my sister, Louisa. Where ever have you been keeping yourself?"

Before Darcy could reply to such an impertinent question, Mrs. Bingley interjected.

"I believe that Charles said you have been spending time with your sister in the country? I hope that your visit was enjoyable?"

Darcy was relieved to turn his attention back to Mrs. Bingley and replied with a smile.

"It was very enjoyable, thank you."

The gentlemen took their seats before Darcy was addressed again.

"Did your sister return to Town with you, Mr. Darcy?"

"Yes, Mrs. Bingley, she did."

"Oh, dear Georgiana! How is our sweet girl? I have longed to visit with her." Caroline said with great emotion.

"My sister is quite well. Thank you for asking, Miss Bingley." Darcy replied through gritted teeth.

"Sisters are such a blessing. I do not know what I would do without my own." Mrs. Bingley stated.

"I must agree, madam. I believe you were blessed with four sisters, is that correct?"

Jane Bingley smiled and said, "It is indeed, sir, and I would not trade one of them. However, I have recently acquired two more sisters in Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst which has only increased my happiness."

A noise could be heard from the hall but Darcy ignored it while attempting to keep his face neutral. The thought that this sweet woman thought Caroline Bingley a 'blessing' was almost unimaginable.

"Yes, Louisa and I just adore our new sister. We expect to enjoy showing her all that Town has to offer this season."

Just as Caroline finished speaking, Jane glanced towards the door and then said,

"There you are, Lizzy! I was concerned about you."

Darcy stood and turned towards the door only to set eyes on the mysterious young woman whom he encountered earlier. She met his eye and, though she appeared slightly flushed, she raised her head and smiled at him before replying to her sister.

"I apologize, Jane. I did not intend to keep you waiting."

Bingley quickly spoke up then.

"Darcy, may I introduce my newest sister, Miss Bennet. Elizabeth, this is my friend, Mr. Darcy of Pemberly in Derbyshire."

Darcy took her hand and bowed before meeting her eye once again and saying, "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Bennet."

Their eyes lingered just a moment before Miss Bingley stated rather loudly, "Yes, Mr. Darcy, Eliza is our newest little pet. Louisa and I just dote upon her."

Miss Bennet's eyes darkened and Darcy was slightly amused as she replied.

"You are too kind, Caroline."

"I only hope that you allow me to assist you in your next shopping excursion, dear." Caroline continued.

She looked to Darcy once again before smiling condescendingly. "Our little Eliza needs much instruction in the ways of Town. Louisa and I certainly have our hands full." She said with a laugh.

Darcy could see the anger rising in the younger woman's face but, thankfully, Mrs. Bingley began speaking before Miss Bennet could reply.

"Mr. Darcy, I do hope that I can persuade you and your sister to join us for dinner soon."

"It would be my pleasure, madam."

"Yes, Darce, I think that Lizzy and Georgie will have much in common. Lizzy greatly enjoys the country and plays the pianoforte quite well."

Darcy noticed the indulgent smile upon Miss Bennet's face as she replied, "I am sure that my performance is nothing to Miss Darcy's, Charles. Although, I shall not reprimand you since it is a brother's prerogative to show favor."

"You do not do yourself justice, Lizzy. Your playing is inspired." Mrs. Bingley said.

Darcy smiled at such obvious affection before Miss Bingley laughed.

"Oh, Jane. You are such a treasure. Even Eliza recognizes that she would benefit from further practice. Are we not lucky to have such a sweet sister, Eliza?"

Miss Bennet's face lost all affection as she looked at Miss Bingley.

"Indeed, Caroline, we are certainly lucky."

Darcy decided to intervene this time.

"Are you enjoying your visit to Town, Miss Bennet?"

"Yes, sir. I have only arrived last week; however, it has been wonderful to be reunited with my sister amidst the bustle of the city. Although, I must admit that the park does not offer the beauty that the trails at home do for walking."

"Yes, I quite understand. I feel the same whenever I leave Derbyshire for Town. However, the museum cannot be rivaled."

"What an excellent idea, Mr. Darcy! We must arrange an outing to the museum."

Darcy turned his gaze away to respond to Miss Bingley's outburst.

"I am sure that my sister would enjoy that, Miss Bingley."

"It is settled then. We shall ensure that my Jane and Elizabeth have the perfect season in Town, eh Darce?"

Darcy just smiled at his friend and replied, "I am at your service."