Author's note: sorry for some of you who saw the chapters out of order as I updated things! It was an issue with FFN as it updated. You may need to clear your cache if it's still showing up all weird, or even try opening the story in an incognito tab.

The story is flooding into my mind, but writing it down is going slower than I'd like. NaNoWriMo is pushing me along, which I am SO grateful for. Just wish my four young kids would respect the creative process! ;)

I hope you enjoy this chapter!

Chapter 10

Once Mr. Bennet had left, Elizabeth began to excuse herself to return to her rooms and Jane, but she was forestalled by the very person she wished to avoid.

"Miss Elizabeth, might I have a word with you?"

Darcy's voice, deep and serious, made her cringe. Her father's words about proper behavior rang in her ears, and she turned to face him, fighting the urge to rush to the door only a few steps away. Bingley became suddenly very interested in the painting above the fireplace.

"How can I help you, Mr. Darcy?" she asked coolly.

He faltered at the ice in her tone. "I think you may have misunderstood something I said earlier today."

"How can it be misunderstood when I heard you say it myself?"

Darcy sighed. "Miss Elizabeth, it appears we are going to be residing under the same roof for quite some time. It may be easier if you made some attempt at civility."

Elizabeth's jaw dropped. "Do you not think that the many remarks you have made about my dearest sister may be some excuse for incivility, if indeed I have been uncivil to you?"

Darcy's face reddened, but she continued speaking with clipped words. "I have every reason in the world to think ill of you. No motive or reason can explain why you have continuously maligned my sister, who has done nothing to you! No, Mr. Darcy, I do not believe there is anything you can say that will justify your ungentlemanly behavior."

She started to turn and walk away, but stopped momentarily to dip a brief curtsy in farewell. Once she was out of sight, he let out a groan and hung his head.

Bingley walked up to him and clapped him on the back. "Well done, Darcy. I daresay you couldn't have offended Miss Elizabeth anymore than if you'd tried to insult her."

Mrs. Hurst entered the room, having completed her farewells to the Bennet family. "Where is Miss Elizabeth?"

Darcy groaned again and hung his head, while Bingley burst into laughter. "Let's just say that Darcy here keeps putting his foot in his mouth."

"Oh dear," the lady replied, covering her mouth with her hand to stifle a laugh. "If I didn't know any better, Mr. Darcy, I would say Caroline was beginning to rub off on you."

"Speaking of Caroline," Bingley said, sobering, "we must do something about her, Louisa. Her behavior has been atrocious, and I cannot allow her to continue to mistreat our guests."

He motioned for his two companions to take their seats. "Sherry, Louisa?"

She acquiesced, and Darcy grateful accepted a glass of port, even though it was long before the dinner hour. Mrs. Hurst also rang for tea, after which she resumed the conversation.

"She probably won't stay in her room for more than another day or so, either," the lady said. "Mr. Darcy, you have guardianship of a sister, do you not? Do you have any suggestions?"

Darcy frowned. "My sister is quite different than your own, both in temperament and age."

"That is true," Bingley admitted. "I've only met her the one time when I visited Pemberley, but she barely spoke a word. That's not something that can be said of Caroline."

"Honestly, Charles, I wish we could just send her away," Mrs. Hurst admitted. "It is a pity she isn't old enough to release her dowry to her and set her up in her own establishment."

Bingley snapped his fingers. "That's it!"

"You mean to set her up in her own home?" exclaimed Mrs. Hurst.

"No, but I can send her away. Aunt Ethel in Scarborough mentioned feeling lonely in her last letter. What better way to help her and get rid of Caroline?"

Mrs. Hurst gasped. "But Charles, Aunt Ethel is a Quaker!"

"All the more reason to send Caroline to her," Bingley replied. Perhaps she will finally learn some humility in living a more simple life. Plain clothing and a focus towards God? Sounds like a fitting consequence to me."

Darcy raised an eyebrow at this statement. "You sound as if you truly intend on going through with this."

"Yes, I am," Bingley said firmly. "I have given Caroline enough chances. It is clear that she respects no one but herself. It's about time I act as head of the household."

"What if she refuses to go?" Mrs. Hurst asked with wide eyes.

"Then I will carry her out to the carriage myself."

She laughed. "Netherfield certainly has made an impact on you, little brother."

At this, the confidence on Bingley's face gave way to uncertainty. "Am I doing the right thing?"

"Yes!" Mrs. Hurst and Darcy both exclaimed together.

"Unless you know of someone you can marry her off to?" Darcy added.

"Are you volunteering?" Bingley asked with a straight face.

Darcy was unable to prevent a look of horror, which sent both Bingley and Mrs. Hurst into peals of laughter. A maid came with the tea tray, and the amusement at Darcy's expense faded into silent grins until the girl had finished her duties.

Once the door had closed behind her, Bingley said. "You know, it actually isn't a bad idea."

"What, marrying

"Is there someone?" Mrs. Hurst asked in surprise, looking up from the tea she was pouring.

"Do you remember Mr. Hyde from two seasons ago?"

Mrs. Hurst squinted her eyes, searching her memory, as she handed the teacups to the two gentlemen. "The tradesman whose father was in business with ours?"

"Yes, James Hyde. He has been quite in love with Caroline for about five years, but she has always had her sights set higher. In his letter last month, he inquired about her marriageability status."

"So she would have to choose between going to Aunt Ethel or marrying Mr. Hyde?" Mrs. Hurst confirmed.

"What do you think?" Bingley asked, looking between his sister and Darcy.

"I think giving her an option is a much more palatable approach," Darcy said. "I have never liked seeing a woman forced to do anything."

This last statement was said with such vehemence that the two siblings looked at him in mild surprise. Mrs. Hurst was the first to recover, while Bingley continued to look questioningly at his friend.

"I agree, Charles. This will allow her to feel more in control of her life. You do not think this Mr. Hyde will mistreat her?"

Bingley shook his head. "No, I have known Hyde since we were children. He has always been kind towards his mother and sister, which I think is a telling sign."

"I agree," Mrs. Hurst said. "When shall we tell Caroline?"

"Fortunately, Hyde is in London right now on business. I shall send an express right this moment, and we shall hear from him tomorrow or the next day, at the latest."

"Perhaps you allow myself or Mrs. Hurst to act as your scribe," Darcy interjected.

Mrs. Hurst laughed. "Probably a good idea. We wouldn't want the poor man to think that Charles is proposing a marriage to his sister!"

Bingley smiled at this, but it quickly faded away. "Louisa, I'd actually like to discuss matrimony with you."

"With me?" she asked, startled.

He looked at Darcy, uncomfortable. "I know we spoke about it this morning, old chap, but the doctor's news has made things different. You saw how Mrs. Bennet was, and it's dangerous to move Miss Bennet to her home. Even if her cough subsides, the weather is getting colder by the day. She may never even be allowed to go home."

Darcy sighed. "The fact that she will only live a year or so does change things."

"What are you talking about?" Mrs. Hurst asked bewilderedly.

"I'd like to marry Jane… Miss Bennet."

Mrs. Hurst had begun to take a sip of tea just as her brother announced his news. She gasped as she swallowed, causing her to choke slightly. Frantically reaching for her napkin or handkerchief, she struggled to contain her coughs. "Why?" she managed to ask.

"Because she makes me happy. I've never before felt the way I do when I'm speaking with her. I enjoy being around her, and I think she could receive better care here than at Longbourn. She could have servants dedicated to her every need, and I could be in the same room as her when she feels ill without causing a scandal."

"But the closer you become to her, Charles, the more heartbreak you'll feel when she inevitably passes on," Mrs. Hurst said gently.

"It would be worth it," Bingley said firmly.

When Mrs. Hurst began to protest once more, Bingley raised a hand to stop her. With some difficulty, he recounted the experience he'd had as a youth with Maggie, the flower, and his first kiss.

There was silence in the room for several moments. At last, Mrs. Hurst said, "Oh, Charles, please forgive me for how I treated you then, and now."

He shrugged. "It was what it was, Louisa. Mother and Father were not the most loving parents; I think we've turned out quite well, all things considering. But meeting Jane - Miss Bennet, that is - has brought all of those longings for love and acceptance back to the surface. I want to have that, for once in my life."

"I understand," she whispered, her eyes shining. "I understand much more than you may realize."

"Well, you know what I think," Darcy broke in. "I would also like to point out that you've only spoken about your wishes, your desires. What about hers? She may very well prefer to spend her last days with her family, and they with her."

Bingley conceded the point with a nod, and Darcy continued speaking. "It's also unlikely, given her health and her mental capabilities, that she will be able to be the true mistress of her home."

"She also may not be able to be a true wife," said Mrs. Hurst suddenly, then blushed furiously.

The gentlemen's cheeks turned pink as well, and Darcy cleared his throat and shifted uncomfortably. "That is another consideration." He hesitated, then added, "Even if she were capable and willing, anything that could put her in such a delicate condition would most probably significantly shorten her lifespan."

Bingley frowned. "I confess that hadn't entirely crossed my mind."

"It seems you have much to think on," Mrs. Hurst said, not unkindly.

"If only I could know what she were thinking," Bingley complained.

"Perhaps I could speak to her sister about it?" suggested Mrs. Hurst.

"How do you know she would be truthful?" Darcy replied. "After all, she may just wish for the wealthy connection."

The two siblings frowned at him. "I do not think her capable of doing anything that would harm her sister," Mrs. Hurst said severely.

Darcy bowed his head in acknowledgment. Before he could respond, however, they were interrupted by the chiming of the clock.

"Goodness, I hadn't realized how late it was!" Mrs. Hurst exclaimed. "It's past time to be changing for dinner."

With that, the three parted ways, with much to occupy their thoughts.

Dinner an hour later was a quiet affair. Elizabeth tried several times to carry on a conversation with those at the dinner table, but her many efforts only led to half-hearted responses that soon fell to silence. Eventually, she ceased her attempts, and the meal passed everyone's focus uncommonly fixated on their plates.

When the last course had been eaten, Mrs. Hurst stood and signaled for the separation of the sexes. Elizabeth dutifully rose and followed, but not before noticing her hostess exchange a significant look with Bingley before leaving the room.

Upon entering the music room, Elizabeth took what was becoming her usual place on a chair near a small table with several books. Instead of going to the small pianoforte, however, Mrs. Hurst chose another chair near Elizabeth's. It was clear to Elizabeth that the other woman was quite uncomfortable, as she was fidgeting with her bracelets and shifting uneasily in her seat.

At length, Mrs. Hurst, her brow furrowed with concern, leaned closer to Elizabeth. "Miss Bennet, I must discuss something of great importance with you, something I cannot bear to keep to myself any longer. The topic is one of some delicacy, however, and I must beg your forgiveness in advance for what I know will be an awkward and personal conversation."

Elizabeth, always open to a sincere discussion, regarded Mrs. Hurst with a serious expression. "Of course, Mrs. Hurst. What troubles you?"

Mrs. Hurst took a deep breath before broaching the delicate subject. "It is a matter regarding your sister, Miss Jane Bennet, and her relationship with Mr. Bingley. You see, my brother is deeply in love with her, and he wishes to propose marriage."

Elizabeth's eyes widened, her surprise evident. "Mr. Bingley wishes to propose to Jane? This is surprising news, indeed! Especially given the news from Mr. Darcy's physician. I would not have thought that your brother would wish to tie himself to such a… complicated situation."

"You remember me mentioning Maggie, the daughter of my father's foreman?"

Elizabeth nodded, watching Mrs. Hurst warily.

"Well, it seems that she and Charles had a special friendship. She was very kind to him. In fact, I'm ashamed to say that she was probably the only female in his life that made him feel wanted and appreciated for who he was. Until your sister, that is."

Elizabeth's face softened, eyes filling with understanding. "I see. That does make quite a bit of sense."

Mrs. Hurst nodded. "But Miss Bennet's health... it is delicate, as you well know. We are unsure if Jane would prefer to spend her remaining time with her family, those whom she loves dearly, or if she would find comfort and happiness in marriage to my brother. It is a choice that only she can make, and we do not wish to pressure her in any way."

Elizabeth bit her lip and looked away. "You have given me quite a lot to think on. As you are aware, Jane's mental capabilities are not entirely those of a woman full grown. While she is capable in so many ways, she is also like a child in other ways."

The other woman shifted uncomfortably in her seat. "Yes, that brings me to another point of thought: the duties that come with marriage."

"You mean, being capable of running a household like Netherfield."

Mrs. Hurst flushed scarlet and looked down at her hands. "Well, there is that, but no… I was referring to, well… that is to say… we do not know if she would be willing or able to engage in, well, the physical aspects of marriage. Not only would falling with child be dangerous for her health, but marital duties can be… difficult for some women. Traumatic, even, depending on the husband. Not that Charles would anything but the best of husbands… what I mean to say is that…"

Elizabeth - now quite red and mentally kicking herself for not having caught on to Mrs. Hurst's meaning before the poor woman had to be so explicit - reached out a hand and placed it on the wringing fingers on the other side of the table.

The married woman's ramblings fell silent, and Elizabeth gave her a gentle smile. "I apologize for not understanding what you were saying before. It does you and your brother great credit for even taking it into consideration."

Mrs. Hurst looked relieved that Elizabeth was willing to engage in this difficult conversation. "Thank you, Miss Bennet. I value your opinion and your understanding in this matter. We want what is best for Jane, and her happiness and comfort are our utmost concern."

"I will, of course, not be able to come to any kind of decision without discussing with my father. I know he will want my opinion, but I have not the faintest idea of what I would say to him either way. With your permission, I will retire now to think on things in privacy, then go to Longbourn in the morning and speak with him."

Mrs. Hurst nodded fervently. "Of course, Miss Elizabeth. I will make your excuses to the gentlemen. Thank you again for your candor."

The ladies made their curtsies to one another, and Elizabeth walked slowly to her room. The weight of her conversation with Mrs. Hurst pressed on her mind like heavy blanket, and she knew it was going to be a long night of contemplation.

Bingley walked down the hall in the family wing towards Caroline's room. He stood for several minutes outside her door, steeling himself for the conversation ahead. Three times, he raised his hand to knock before letting it fall down at his side in silence.

Finally, he shook his head, squared his shoulders, and rapped firmly on the frame. "Caroline, I must speak with you. Now."

The door opened, and Caroline's lady's maid opened the door. One of her cheeks sported a brilliant pink mark in the shape of a hand, which was beginning to swell and bruise. Bingley gasped slightly at the sight.

"Did my sister do this to you?"

The girl's eyes fixed firmly on the floor, and she gave the tiniest of nods.

"Emily, is that right?"

Another minuscule nod.

"Please go see the housekeeper. Tell her I want someone to fetch you some ice from the icebox for your cheek. You are to remain in your rooms for the day. I promise you will not lose your position, and this will never happen again."

Emily's startled eyes flew up to meet his in astonishment. He nodded and gave her a gentle, reassuring smile. She tentatively smiled back, then darted out of the room and down the hallway.

"What do you want, Charles?"

Caroline's irritated, nasally tones caused him to wince. He entered the room and was dismayed to see the utter destruction before him. Broken shards of glass from knick-knacks, perfume bottles, and tea cups were scattered across the floor, their shattered pieces making any further entry treacherous. An overturned chair and ripped books, as well as several torn dresses were intermingled with the broken fragile items.

Choosing to ignore the havoc, Bingley cleared his throat and looked at his sister with a solemn expression. "Caroline, there's a matter of great importance that I wish to discuss with you."

Caroline, who had been idly flipping through the pages of a fashion magazine, raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "What is it, Charles?" she asked in a bored tone.

He took a deep breath, knowing that what he was about to reveal would likely not sit well with his strong-willed sister. "Caroline, your behavior in my home towards our guests the last few days has been unacceptable. I am therefore giving you two options. The first is marriage."

Caroline sat up quickly on the bed, eyes lighting up with glee. "Marriage? Oh, I accept! I always knew coming to Netherfield would make Mr. Darcy see my abilities as hostess!"

"What? No!" Bingley stared at his sister incredulously. "Not Darcy! I'm talking about Mr. Hyde!"

Caroline's eyes widened in disbelief, and her fingers clenched the pages of the book in her lap. "A tradesman's son? Charles, have you taken leave of your senses? You cannot seriously expect me to entertain such a preposterous idea!"

He held his ground, his tone unwavering. "Hyde is a good man, and I believe that this match would be beneficial for both our families. He genuinely cares for you, and he is eminently suitable."

Caroline's anger flared. "Suitable, you say? Are you suggesting that I should sacrifice my social standing, my future, and my happiness for the sake of suitability?"

Her brother sighed. "You do have one more option: Aunt Ethel."

Caroline's face turned a shade of red. "You would threaten to exile your own sister to live among those Quakers? Charles, this is outrageous!"

Bingley placed a hand on her shoulder, his voice gentle yet resolute. "I don't wish to threaten, Caroline. I merely want what's best for you and our family. This marriage to Hyde is not a punishment, but an opportunity for a secure and honorable future. I hope you will consider it carefully."

"But Mr. Darcy-"

"Darcy will not have you."

She flinched at his direct tone, the color draining from her face.

"I am sorry to be so blunt, but even before your truly appalling behavior towards the Bennets these last few days, he would not have ever asked for your hand in marriage. He tolerated you only for my sake; he told me so as much, on more than one occasion."

She remained silent, pressing her lips together so tightly that they nearly blended in with her bloodless face.

"I will leave you to think on this decision. No matter which choice you make, you will be leaving in my carriage tomorrow at first light."

When there was still no response, he turned and walked out the door, closing it behind it him.

The clicking latch was immediately followed by a thud behind him, then the sound of shattering glass, and a high-pitched scream of fury that caused the hairs of the nape of neck to stand on end.

It would be good to have her gone; morning could not come soon enough.