In the afternoon, Elizabeth took a sit by the window and carefully re-read Jane's recent letters. As she perused the lines, she observed that in the last two letters, her sister seemed more cheerful and was participating actively in society. Reflecting on Mr. Darcy's actions and her mother's counsel, Elizabeth found herself pondering deeply, weighing each word and gesture. Eventually, she was compelled to acknowledge the wisdom in her mother's advice. However, she was resolved to have a serious conversation with Mr. Darcy about Jane. Jane was not a fortune hunter, and Mr. Darcy should refrain from casting such aspersions!
She was so lost in contemplation that she did not realize it was 4:30 PM when her mother's inquiry disrupted her reverie, "Lizzy, do you recall that Miss Darcy extended an invitation for tea this afternoon?"
Elizabeth blinked; she had forgotten about Georgiana's invitation! She had a slight headache and did not want to see Colonel Fitzwilliam. With a gentle shake of her head, she replied, "Mama, I am afraid I have a slight headache and would prefer to remain at home."
With a worried expression, Mrs. Bennet gazed at her and gently inquired, "Do you want me to stay and keep you company?"
"No, it is not necessary, Mama," she replied with a feeble smile. "I am certain I will feel better in a few hours. Please give my apologies to Georgiana."
Understanding her daughter's wish, Mrs. Bennet nodded and refrained from further insistence.
As soon as her mother and sisters departed, Elizabeth settled into a comfortable armchair in the drawing room. She reached for the book of Canterbury Tales, and immerse herself in Mr. Darcy's favourite tale.
She was deeply engrossed in the intricacies of Chaucer's storytelling when she heard a fain knock on the door. Startled from her reverie, she glanced up to see the housekeeper entering, "Mr. Darcy is here and want to see you, Miss Bennet…"
Surprised by the unexpected visit, Elizabeth hesitated momentarily, and then instructed the housekeeper to show him in. She hurried to her bedchamber, where she carefully adjusted her appearance, smoothing her gown and tidying her hair. As she gazed at her reflection in the mirror, she noticed the slight pallor that had crept across her features. She sighed and made her way downstairs.
When Elizabeth entered the parlour, Darcy's gaze fixed upon her with a combination of admiration and concern. Elizabeth smiled slightly as she greeted him, "Good afternoon, Mr. Darcy. I thought you were in London."
"Good afternoon, Miss Bennet. Indeed, but I had to change plans at the last minute," he replied as he met her gaze, "I arrived half an hour ago. How are you? Your mother mentioned that you are not feeling well."
"I have a slight headache, but I am certain I will be fine in a few hours," Elizabeth responded with a reassuring tone.
He observed her closely, taking note of her pale complexion. After a brief pause, he realized he could not postpone what he wanted to talk to her until the following day. He nodded, saying "I am relieved it is only a headache." With a sigh, he continued, "I understand it is not the best timing, but if you allow me, there is something important I wish to talk to you."
Elizabeth nodded, then ensured the door was slightly ajar and gestured towards a chair, saying, "Please, have a seat. Would you like some tea?"
Darcy shook his head and sat in the chair Elizabeth indicated. He took a deep breath, looked into her beautiful eyes, and after a few moments, said seriously, "Miss. Bennet, unfortunately, I won't be able to be there on your birthday."
Elizabeth opened her eyes slightly in surprise, and sadly, her first thought was that Mr. Darcy was not interested in her. Before she could say anything, Darcy added, "Sadly, yesterday I received a letter from my cousin, with the news that my aunt, Lady Catherine, has suddenly passed away. For that reason, I must depart for Rosing with Colonel Fitzwilliam and my sister."
Elizabeth sympathetically exclaimed, "I am so sorry, Mr. Darcy. Please send my sincere condolences to your sister and Colonel Fitzwilliam."
Following a solemn pause, Darcy finally looked into her eyes and said, "I will be occupied at Rosings for a few weeks, and I am uncertain when I will see you again. "With heartfelt emotion, he took her gloveless hand, "Before leaving Ramsgate, I must tell you how ardently I admire and love you. My happiness lies in your hands," he knelt and asked passionately, "Miss Bennet, Elizabeth, would you do me the honour of being my wife?"
Overwhelmed with emotion, Elizabeth blushed and closed her eyes, vividly recalling the beautiful recurring dream of strolling with Mr. Darcy in a stunning garden while two children playfully surrounded them.
She opened her eyes and looked into Darcy's expectant eyes, which were filled with devotion as he gazed at her. They were going to be separated for several weeks, and Elizabeth was aware that, although she was still upset by what he had said about Jane, if she rejected him, she was certain she would regret it for the rest of her life.
She smiled slightly, and in a clear voice responded, "Yes, Mr. Darcy. It will be an honour to be your wife."
Darcy smiled widely, stood up, hugged her tightly, and kissed her tenderly on the lips. With emotions, he said, "Thank you, my love. I promise you that I will do everything possible to make you happy."
At this time, Mrs. Bennet, Mary, and Kitty returned home.