Notes: The vast majority do not want an HEA for Bingley and Jane. This chapter is very similar to one of Fate Change, but it seemed appropriate for this story.
PPP
Jane took a long, careful look at herself in the mirror, ensuring that her hair was perfectly styled and that her dress was free of wrinkles. She was going to dinner with her aunt and uncle at Mr. Scott's house, and she was determined to make a favorable impression on her host.
As she smiled slightly, her thoughts drifted to him. She still cherished the poems he had written to her seven years earlier. Shortly after that time, he had moved to America, where he lived for several years and amassed a considerable fortune. However, due to the diplomatic tensions between England and America, he was eventually compelled to return to England.
Soon after he arrived in London, he purchased a house in Cheapside, just a few blocks from the Gardiners', and established his own business. Given his longstanding business relationship with Mr. Gardiner, he had paid a visit to Mr. Gardiner's office shortly after settling in London. Subsequently, he became a business partner with Mr. Gardiner in several ventures.
The first time she saw him again close to two months prior, she had difficulty recognizing him. He had become more robust and had developed a tanned complexion from his time abroad. Their initial conversation was, for lack of a better term, somewhat awkward. However, Mrs. Gardiner, with her characteristic kindness and conversational skill, adeptly navigated them out of the uncomfortable silence.
Jane closed her eyes and vividly recalled that fateful night.
Aunt Gardiner remarked, "For many years, I have wondered what it might be like to live in America, particularly in Boston. It is truly a pity that our Kingdom is once again in conflict with America."
Mr. Scott turned his attention to Mrs. Gardiner, his smile widening as he acknowledged her interest. He had been making polite attempts to engage Jane in conversation for several minutes, but with only limited success. "Indeed, life in America is quite different from what we are accustomed to here in London," he responded thoughtfully. After a brief pause, he continued, "Despite the fact that thousands of people have moved to and around Boston over the last fifty years, the city remains significantly smaller than London. Nevertheless, it offers considerable opportunities for those willing to put in the effort. One aspect that particularly impressed me is that many women work alongside men, taking on the same kinds of roles and responsibilities."
Jane's curiosity was piqued by his comment. Her eyes widened as she turned to him, genuinely interested. "What kinds of roles and responsibilities do these women undertake?"
"Many of them manage and run shops in partnership with their husbands, fathers, or other relatives," Mr. Scott explained. "There are even women who own their own businesses outright. Of course, some women choose to remain at home, focusing on managing their households and raising their children, while staying detached from their family's business ventures."
"How fascinating!" Mrs. Gardiner exclaimed; her eyes gleaming with interest. "When I was younger, I adored spending time in my father's bookshop in Lambton. I often imagine that had I not married, I would have continued to manage that bookshop myself."
Mr. Gardiner, with a hint of playful gallantry, added, "I am indeed very pleased that I managed to convince you to marry me."
They laughed heartily at his comment. Jane, however, remained silent, her expression thoughtful. Mr. Scott, noticing her subdued demeanor, turned his attention to her with a gentle inquiry. "And you, Miss Bennet? Would you ever consider owning a business?"
Jane was momentarily taken aback by the question. Her face showed a mixture of surprise and contemplation. "Until now, the notion of owning a business or working had never really occurred to me," she admitted, her voice soft and reflective.
Mr. Scott, with a knowing smile, interjected, "It is understandable that you might not have considered it. I momentarily forgot that you are the daughter of a gentleman, and as such, you were likely raised with the belief that a young lady should not engage in work outside the home."
Jane lowered her gaze, the weight of unspoken thoughts evident in her silence. The memories of the past year, with its accompanying pain and disappointment, seemed to linger just beneath the surface of her composure.
Noticing the shift in Jane's demeanor, Mrs. Gardiner skillfully steered the conversation to a different topic. The group then delved into various other subjects, their conversation flowing more smoothly as they explored new and engaging topics.
As the evening wore on, Mr. Scott eventually took his leave around 10:00 PM. His departure was marked by polite farewells and expressions of gratitude for the enjoyable evening.
She opened her eyes and smiled.
She realized that as time passed by, she found herself thinking about him more and more. His presence in her life started to fill a space that had been left empty by her previous disappointment with Mr. Bingley.