Notes: Last year, I started posting this story in Spanish, but did not finish it. I am translating the story, but it is not edited. I will post once or twice a week. This is a heartbreaking story, but it is also a story about family, guilt, regret, and love.
PPP
It was a chilly November morning when the Bennet family's fate took an unexpected turn. Mrs. Bennet, known for her meddling and impulsive nature, was going to be the catalyst. The family was having breakfast when a note arrived from Netherfield Park, and it was addressed to Jane. The note was an invitation from Caroline Bingley and her sister to join them for tea that afternoon at Netherfield.
Mrs. Bennet's eyes lit up with joy; it was an excellent opportunity for Jane to spend more time with Mr. Bingley. However, her excitement turned to disappointment since the note also mentioned that Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy and Mr. Hurst would be dining with the officers in Meryton.
When Jane requested the carriage from her father, Mrs. Bennet protested vehemently. She claimed the horses were needed on the farm, and they could not be spared. To avoid conflicts, Mr. Bennet agreed with his wife. Furthermore, Mrs. Bennet insisted that Jane should go on horseback because there was a high chance of rain. As the gentlemen had taken the carriage, Mrs. Bennet was convinced that Jane's friends would invite her to spend the night at Netherfield.
Despite Elizabeth's strong protests, their mother insisted that Jane should go riding Nelly, their ageing mare. Eventually, Jane reluctantly agreed to avoid further conflict. This seemingly minor decision would have a profound impact on their lives.
PPP
"Jane, did you hear the thunder?" asked Elizabeth, concerned about the approaching storm.
Jane nodded in response, already aware of the distant rumbling. She began to put on her coat, preparing for her upcoming ride.
Elizabeth took Jane's arm, urging her to reconsider, "You don't have to go riding! It's cold outside, and a storm could break out at any moment. Nelly is very old, and it will take you a long time to arrive to Netherfield. If it starts raining, you will probably arrive there wet."
Jane listened patiently but shook her head, "Lizzy, I already agreed to go." She tried to reassure her sister, saying, "Please, don't worry, I will probably arrive in Netherfield before it starts to rain." She smiled weakly and added, "It's only three miles…"
Elizabeth nodded, resigned to the fact that her sister had made up her mind. She watched as Jane stepped outside in the chilly air, silently hoping that the storm would hold off until Jane arrived safely at Netherfield.
Unfortunately, about fifteen minutes after Jane left for Netherfield, a severe storm broke out. Mrs. Bennet could hardly contain her excitement as she exclaimed, "I knew it was going to rain! Now Jane is going to have to spend the night at Netherfield…"
Elizabeth's heart sank at the thought of Jane being caught in the storm; she rushed to the window and looked out at the heavy rain and gusts of wind, wondering how her sister was faring in such harsh weather conditions.