Chapter 20
"My dear, you must not be sad. Elizabeth will spend the entire summer with us," Andrew said, taking his wife's hand.
"I know; it is just that I had the illusion of spending time with her. It has been so long since we have had the opportunity to talk that I would have liked Lizzy to stay for a few more days."
"But you must admit that your mother needs her support, and no one better to assist her than Elizabeth."
"I know. Although my mother tries to show she is ready to leave Longbourn, I believe it will affect her more than she wants to admit."
Jane and Andrew planned to travel to Longbourn to help the family move, and then they would travel to Somerset and spend the entire summer there. But for the moment, they were forced to remain in London for several more weeks since Agnes had requested that all her possessions be moved to her house in London. For that reason, Andrew had to carefully analyze his father's will and the marriage contract they had signed and needed the aid of his solicitor in London. He did not want that woman to steal items that did not belong to her.
"I hope that after this, I can cut that woman out of my life and never see her again." Andrew's mood changed when he talked about Agnes.
"Mr. Roberts explained that you must be patient and that everything will be resolved positively," Jane said, caressing her husband's face.
"I know, it is just that I would have preferred to return to Parkland, but I guess it is not so bad to be able to spend a few more weeks in London. There are many entertaining things to do with the girls, and I must admit that everything is always amusing with you."
"I must confess that I am excited by Lady Margaret's invitation. My Uncle Gardiner used to take us to the theater, but I never thought I would be able to see an opera premiere from a private box," Jane said excitedly.
"I am glad you like the idea because I do not. I can hear the rumors from the gossiping ladies saying that the new Baroness is too beautiful for a man as ugly as me," Andrew said, making Jane laugh. "Besides, I hope I do not have to meet Darcy, although I imagine he must have his own box. As you know, our last conversation was not very pleasant."
"You told him everything he deserved to hear, dear."
"I know, but I cannot deny that, in a way, I felt a little sorry for him. I hope you do not mind what I am about to say, but I believe he sincerely esteems Elizabeth."
"Lizzy has been very good to Miss Darcy; it is logical that Mr. Darcy feels grateful to my sister."
"I do not know if what he feels for Elizabeth is just gratitude…"
"What do you mean?"
"I do not know; perhaps Darcy admires your sister. Elizabeth is a charming and very pretty young lady; it would not be unnatural for Darcy to be attracted to her."
Jane stood and spoke earnestly. "I once heard Charlotte say that Mr. Darcy paid much attention to what Lizzy did or said. But I sincerely hope you are wrong. A man so stern that believes our family is the worst will never be able to love my sister as she deserves."
"People change, Jane. If someone had told me a year ago that I would be happily married today, I would have laughed in their face."
"It may be, but few people have the ability to change. In any case, what that man feels is irrelevant to me. I know very well that Lizzy despises him and could never be attracted to someone so inconsiderate."
Andrew preferred not to continue discussing the subject with his beloved wife. He knew Darcy was honorable and would be a good husband for Elizabeth if they could resolve their pending matters.
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Elizabeth invited Georgiana and Mr. Darcy to the house and introduced her to her sisters. After breakfast, Mrs. Bennet again did not feel well and went to lie down. Elizabeth thought that her mother was sorrowful because, in a few days, she had to leave Longbourn forever.
Mr. Darcy formally greeted Mary, Kitty, and Lydia. They did not dare look him in the eye when they returned his greeting. For her part, Elizabeth felt nervous. She wanted to talk to Mr. Darcy about something important, and she had to find the right moment.
Mr. Darcy noticed that Elizabeth's sisters were much more collected. Although they were still a little loud, at least they did not use inappropriate vocabulary in Georgiana's presence.
"Excuse me, Miss Darcy, do you know how to ride? This summer, my dear brother Andrew will teach me how to ride. He has a big, beautiful estate in Somerset," Kitty said excitedly.
"Andrew will also teach me how to ride. He is so nice and good… He is a Baron and is not conceited like other people…" Lydia said, looking at Mr. Darcy.
Fortunately, Georgiana did not realize that Lydia's comment was directed at her brother and responded happily. "My father taught me to ride when I was a girl, and I enjoy touring our estate in the summer. Lizzy told me I could visit her during the summer; maybe I can help you practice," Georgiana said. But when she saw her brother so serious, she added, "I do not know if I have time, though."
"You can go horse riding all the places you want, but I will always prefer to walk," Elizabeth said, jesting. She noticed Mr. Darcy was uncomfortable and did not want him to leave before she could speak to him.
Fortunately, Mary told Georgiana that she would soon be going to live with Aunt Amanda and that she would continue her piano lessons. "I do not like to dance, so when there are social gatherings, I prefer to play the piano and watch people dance."
"Kitty and I like to dance, so we are pleased that Mary wants to learn new music pieces, " Lydia added.
"Yesterday, Jane sent me two new sheets of music as a gift. I am practicing every day. Mama said that when we were settled in our new house, she wants to have a party and invite all the neighbors."
"Mary, why do you not show Georgiana the music room?"
"I would love for you to show me your new sheet of music, Miss Mary. Perhaps I know them and can help you. My brother and I shall spend a few days in Netherfield…"
"Thank you very much, Miss Darcy. I would love to hear you play; Lizzy told me you played very well," Mary said nervously.
"Can I hear you playing?" Kitty asked. She did not wish to be in Mr. Darcy's presence for long.
"Maybe we can dance, Kitty," Lydia said cheerfully. Since her father passed away, Longbourn had become a sad place, and Lydia wanted some joy and normality in her life.
The four girls went to the music room, and Elizabeth immediately took the opportunity to say what she wanted. "Mr Darcy, could you accompany me to the garden? There are some important matters I wish to discuss with you."
"Of course, Miss Bennet. I need to speak to you, too. I have come to Hertfordshire with that purpose." Mr. Darcy was tense and hoped to be able to express everything he had planned. He needed to know if Elizabeth could forgive him and give him even a chance to be her friend.
Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy left for the garden without saying anything. They both had so much to explain that they did not know where to start. When they were finally far enough from the house, Elizabeth spoke.
"Mr. Darcy, first of all, I want to tell you that my mother is very sorry not to be able to greet you. Unfortunately, she has not been feeling well recently, and after breakfast, she had to go to her room to rest. I think that leaving her home has affected her spirit." Elizabeth did not want Mr. Darcy to think her mother was avoiding him.
"Do not worry, Miss Bennet. I completely understand how difficult all of this must be for your mother. Please give her my respects and my wishes for a speedy recovery," Mr. Darcy said.
"Mr. Darcy…"
"Miss Bennet…"
Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth spoke at the same time. They were both eager to apologize and explain many things.
"Mr. Darcy, please allow me to apologize for everything I said to you regarding Mr. Wickham. I... Sir, I did not know what kind of scoundrel that man was... Georgiana told me... Since I knew the whole truth, I have felt very ashamed, and for that reason, I want to offer you my most sincere apologies..." Elizabeth could not say more because she felt completely overwhelmed. She had taken the word of a man of the worst kind and had accused Mr. Darcy of offenses he had never committed.
"Miss Bennet, do not be so hard on yourself. Wickham has always been, on the surface, a pleasant and friendly gentleman. He knows how to hide his twisted nature very well, so much so that my excellent father died thinking that his godson was a good person. Therefore, it is very easy to understand that he could so easily deceive my sister and you."
Mr. Darcy was happy to know that Elizabeth's impression of him had improved a little. However, he knew that much of her bad opinion of him resulted from his actions, and he could not blame others.
"Thank you for understanding, sir. I would like never to have to speak of that man again, but unfortunately, he is still here in Meryton, and I would not like Georgiana to see him… If you are planning to stay for a few days…"
"We have no fixed plans… Regarding Wickham, do not worry, Miss Bennet, he will have to leave this town very soon. In the meantime, Georgiana will not go to Meryton."
"She can come visit us. My mother forbade my sisters from inviting officers or unfamiliar people. Only a few close friends can come to Longbourn."
"Georgiana will be happy to spend time with you… Miss Bennet, you are not the only one who has to apologize. All I said to you that day in Rosings Park was... My behavior was unpardonable, but I know you have a noble heart, and I hope you can forgive me. Thanks to your factual reproaches, I could see and analyze my behavior and learn how to be a better person for my sister and better represent my family's legacy. Miss Bennet, you are my sister's only friend, and if she lost your friendship because of my foolishness, I think I would never be able to forgive myself."
"Do not worry, Mr. Darcy; I will always love Georgiana and always have her in my mind and heart."
"I know, but I also know that if Georgiana invites you to Pemberley and you always make excuses, she will feel despondent. Miss Bennet, I have come to beg you to please forget everything I told you and to see me as your friend's brother. I want you to feel confident that I shall treat you with respect and friendship every time you visit us. I promise I shall not do anything that might make you uncomfortable. Miss Bennet, I have come to offer you my friendship, and I would like you to think about it and give me a second chance."
Elizabeth saw the sincerity in Mr. Darcy's eyes. He was making that sacrifice for his sister, and she could also do the same for her friend. Without a doubt, Georgiana had an excellent brother willing to do anything to protect her.
"I do not need to think about it, Mr. Darcy. I believe we can have a cordial relationship for Georgiana's sake. Believe it or not, I am not always so stubborn," Elizabeth said, smiling.
"And I am not always so proud," replied Mr. Darcy, also smiling. He was happy; the first part of his plan had worked. Elizabeth had given him a new opportunity, at least to be her friend, and he would do everything in his power to win her heart.
"My mother will not forgive me if I do not offer you tea. She always says that a good hostess should always serve a cup of tea to her visitors," Elizabeth explained. She was a little nervous because Mr. Darcy had told her a few days ago that he loved her and now wanted to be her friend. She could not help but feel flattered that a gentleman like him was motivated to be a better person so she could continue being friends with his sister.
"I would love to have tea with you and for you to tell me a little more about your plans for the summer. I know Georgiana looks forward to spending time with you, Miss Bennet." As they walked back home, Mr. Darcy offered Elizabeth his arm, and she accepted it.
"That is precisely what I wanted to talk to Georgiana. I had planned to write to her. My plan is to spend the first month of summer in Somerset with Jane and Andrew. But I will travel with Uncle and Aunt Gardiner in July and part of August. My aunt is originally from Lambton, and after everything I told her in letters and person, she felt homesick. My uncle invited her to visit those places from her childhood and asked me to accompany them. Since I shall be in the area for several days, I thought I would call on Georgiana and…"
"Miss Bennet, if you and your aunt and uncle will be in the area, I humbly request that you and your family accept my invitation to stay with us in Pemberley. Georgiana and I can plan to take you to visit the most beautiful places in the area and all the places that your aunt remembers so fondly." Mr. Darcy was delighted, thinking he had the chance to welcome Elizabeth back to Pemberley, but this time as she deserved, as a dear friend of her sister and the Darcy family.
"I thank you very much for your invitation, Mr. Darcy. Unfortunately, I cannot give you an answer now. I have to consult with my uncle," Elizabeth said, trying not to sound curt.
"I understand… If you allow me, I can write to Mr. Gardiner and formally invite them," Mr. Darcy replied anxiously.
"Allow me to speak with my uncle first, and if he is interested, then you can write to him to formalize the invitation."
"Of course, I shall be waiting for your response."
When Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth entered the house, they could hear the sound of the piano and the voices of the girls talking and laughing. They had tea, and after almost two hours, the Darcys finally said goodbye to the Bennet sisters and returned to Netherfield happy after spending a pleasant morning full of surprises.
P&P
As the Darcy carriage entered the property, Caroline was relieved. She assumed they had visited Longbourn and did not understand why it had taken them so long to return. That was her last chance to prove to Mr. Darcy that she was the perfect woman to be his wife.
After Mr. Bingley's sudden change of attitude, Louisa and Caroline had had to change too. In Louisa's case, the transformation had been genuine. She felt remorseful when she saw her brother so sad and remembered how her parents had always told her that because she was the older sister, she should always take care of her younger siblings, especially Charles, a good-natured child with a good heart. However, she did the opposite; she took advantage of Charles' good disposition and forced him to do what she and Caroline wanted. As a result, his beloved brother had to face extraordinary disappointment, and thanks to that pain, he had managed to mature. So, Louisa planned to follow her brother's example and be a better person.
When Caroline noticed Louisa's changes, she had no choice but to feign regret. Therefore, when she learned that his brother Charles was returning to Hertfordshire accompanied by the Darcys, she begged him to allow her to accompany him. That way, she could apologize to the Bennet family and all their neighbors.
"My dear Georgiana, Mr. Darcy, I am glad you returned just in time to have luncheon with me and Charles," Caroline said.
"We went to visit Lizzy and gave her a big surprise. Tomorrow, she invited us to lunch because today Mrs. Bennet was not feeling well," Georgiana explained.
"That is great. Eliza is an amiable lady, and you are excellent friends. Georgiana, dear, if you would like to invite your friend to visit us, please do so. This is your house," Caroline said. "And you, Mr. Darcy, what are your plans for tomorrow?"
"I shall have luncheon with Mrs. Bennet and her daughters, Miss Bingley. We thank you for your kindness, but the Bennet family is going through a difficult situation. We want to offer them our support."
"Of course, I know they will soon have to leave their home. It is certainly a disgrace that they have to leave home where they grew up and spent much of their lives," Caroline said with pretend concern.
"Darcy, you are finally here. I have several questions for you," said Mr. Bingley.
Georgiana and Mr. Darcy were happy that Mr. Bingley interrupted Caroline's questioning. Although she tried to be considerate and kind, they sensed that her sudden change was insincere.
For her part, Caroline was not pleased at all. She did not want Mr. Darcy to spend so much time with Eliza Bennet. She sensed that Elizabeth was using her supposed suffering over losing her home to cajole Mr. Darcy into spending much of the day with her.
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The following day, Mr. Darcy and Georgiana agreed to have breakfast early and go to the Bennets'. They did not want Caroline to find an excuse to accompany them because it would make everyone uncomfortable. Therefore, they arrived at Longbourn earlier than planned, and Elizabeth was not home. She had gone to Meryton.
Mrs. Bennet greeted them cordially. However, they noticed that she looked melancholy and pale. Mary invited Georgiana to the music room, and Kitty and Lydia joined them. The previous day, they had had an excellent morning singing and dancing while Georgiana and Mary played the piano.
As soon as Mr. Darcy was alone with the mistress of the house, he took the opportunity to apologize. "Mrs. Bennet, I know it has been a while since we last saw each other, and given the circumstances and everything that has happened, it may not be important to you, but it is to me. Madam, I want to offer you my most sincere apologies for the overbearing and haughty manner in which I acted when we first met."
"I accept your apology, Mr. Darcy. But do not be too harsh on you; my behavior was also quite inappropriate. But just as you have had the opportunity to reflect, well I have too. My dear Mr. Darcy, we all have the right to change and a second chance."
Mr. Darcy was surprised. Mrs. Bennet seemed like a different person, one much more controlled but also sad and dejected by the reality of losing her husband and home.
"Mr. Darcy, in my husband's study, there are many books that may interest you. Unfortunately, I have some things to do, and I doubt you will want to go to the music room to accompany the girls."
"Do you think Miss Bennet will take long to arrive?"
"He went to the post office to send some letters. My Lizzy loves to walk and prefers to do it herself."
"I think I shall walk to Meryton… I need to buy some things. Besides, I can accompany Miss Bennet on her way back."
Mr. Darcy explained to Georgiana that he would walk to town but would return soon. She did not mind because she was too entertained conversing with Elizabeth's sisters.
Elizabeth had written to her Aunt Gardiner to tell her about the invitation to Pemberley. But she also wrote to Jane to tell her that she believed it necessary for a doctor to examine Mrs. Bennet. Although she understood that her mother was unhappy, she sensed something else was happening and preferred that the doctor examine her to ensure everything was well.
Once Elizabeth left the letters in the post office, she decided to return home because the Darcys would soon arrive. Unfortunately, she had a very unpleasant surprise.
When Mr. Wickham saw Elizabeth, he decided to approach her immediately. He had heard that the eldest of the Bennet sisters had married Andrew Taylor, now the new Baron Norton. He had met him at university and knew he was hardworking and that his mother's family was from a wealthy family of traders. Without a doubt, Andrew today was rich and influential due to his title. That made Elizabeth a good catch now. Plus, she had always loved him, so he knew it would not be difficult to convince her that they were made for each other.
"Miss Elizabeth Bennet, you do not know how glad I am to see you," said Mr. Wickham, smiling.
"Mr. Wickham… how are you?" Elizabeth asked. She hoped to exchange a few words with that man, excuse herself, and leave as quickly as possible.
"Now that I see you again, I am much better. You do not know how much I missed our pleasant conversations."
"Mr Wickham, I am very sorry but must return home. My mother is waiting for me. Good afternoon, sir…" Elizabeth curtsied and tried to walk, but Mr. Wickham stood in her way.
"Elizabeth, you seriously do not have a few minutes for an old friend," said Mr. Wickham, trying to use all his charms to hold his prey.
"I am sorry…" Elizabeth tried to say, but Mr. Wickham continued to block her path.
"Elizabeth…"
"Wickham, how dare you talk to Miss Bennet with so little consideration and respect?" Mr. Darcy said in a firm voice.
Mr. Wickham turned to see his nemesis staring at him menacingly.
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Thanks to everyone who follows the story and leaves comments 👏 👏. We are getting closer to the end.
In the next chapter, Mr. Darcy will help the Bennet family, and Caroline will get a big surprise.
See you soon!
Saludos,
Yo