Chapter 48 - Caroline's Disappointment
Caroline stood at the grand window of Pemberley's drawing room, her eyes fixed on the winding road that led to the house. Louisa and Mr Hurst lounged nearby, clearly bored with the wait, while Mrs Annesley sat quietly in a corner, her needlework in hand. As she waited for the Gardiners' and Darcys' carriages to arrive with Jane and Eliza Bennet, Caroline's mind wandered over the tumultuous events of the past few months.
How quickly things had changed! It seemed like only yesterday that Eliza had been walking down the aisle to marry Mr Collins. Caroline had been so relieved then, thinking her rival for Mr Darcy's affections would soon be out of the way. But fate, it seemed, had other plans.
Mr Bennet's collapse, his subsequent death, and then the passing of Mr Collins himself – it all seemed like a whirlwind of misfortune. Yet somehow, Eliza Bennet had emerged from it all not only unscathed but in an even better position to capture Mr Darcy's heart.
And then there was the scandal with the youngest Bennet girl. Caroline had been certain that would be the end of any connection between the Bennets and polite society. But once again, her hopes were dashed. Mr Darcy himself had intervened, resolving the situation quietly and efficiently. If anything, it had only brought him closer to Eliza.
As if to confirm her fears, Caroline caught sight of two figures walking arm in arm through the woods below. She recognized Mr Darcy's tall frame immediately, and beside him was unmistakably Eliza Bennet. It seemed Mr Darcy had abandoned the welcoming party to steal a private moment with her.
Caroline watched as they paused by a stream, Darcy pointing out something to Eliza, who laughed in response. Even from this distance, she could see the easy intimacy between them, the way Darcy leaned in close to speak, the way Eliza's hand rested comfortably on his arm.
"I believe I see dust from an approaching carriage," Louisa remarked lazily from her seat.
Indeed, the sound of carriage wheels on gravel could now be heard. Caroline watched as the Gardiners' carriage arrived, and she could see Georgiana rushing forward to greet the party, her face alight with excitement. Charles was there too, beaming as he helped Jane down from the carriage.
Caroline straightened her posture and adjusted her expression into one of polite interest.
"Shall we go down to greet the guests?" she suggested to the room at large, though her eyes remained fixed on the scene outside.
As the group made their way to the entrance hall, Caroline cast one last glance out the window. Darcy and Eliza were now standing close together, looking out over the lake, their heads inclined towards each other in intimate conversation.
The sight made her heart clench painfully. It was becoming increasingly clear that her long-held dreams of becoming Mrs Darcy were slipping away. But surely, there must still be hope? After all, she was Caroline Bingley. She was not one to give up without a fight.
With a deep breath, she smoothed her skirts and led the way downstairs. It was time to put on a performance worthy of the future mistress of Pemberley – a role she was determined to claim, no matter the obstacles.
ooOoo
Elizabeth had never seen a place for which nature had done more, or where natural beauty had been so little counteracted by an awkward taste. She smiled at Mr Darcy, as they proceeded on their walk. The leaves were brown and yellow, as autumn was arriving in full force. They lay in heaps under the trees that they have fallen from. She could only imagine how it would look in a few more months when winter had claimed the woods and fields.
"I can see why you're so proud of Pemberley, Mr Darcy," Elizabeth said, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Though I wonder, do you take credit for the changing of the seasons as well?"
Darcy's lips quirted into a smile. "I'm afraid I cannot claim that particular talent, Miss Bennet. Nature, it seems, is beyond even my control."
"How disappointing," Elizabeth replied with mock seriousness. "And here I thought you had a hand in everything that occurs on your estate."
"Perhaps I should consult with you on how to better manage the falling of the leaves," Darcy retorted, his eyes warm with amusement. "I'm sure you have some innovative ideas on the matter."
Elizabeth laughed, the sound echoing through the woods. "Oh yes, I have several thoughts on the proper arrangement of autumn foliage. I'd be happy to share them… for a small fee, of course."
Their banter continued as they meandered through the woods, both reluctant to end their private moment. Eventually, Darcy sighed and said, "We should return to the house. The others will have arrived by now."
Elizabeth nodded, though her smile didn't fade. "Yes, I suppose we must. Though I daresay Miss Bingley will not be pleased to see us return together."
"I'm afraid Miss Bingley's feelings are not my primary concern at present," Darcy replied, his gaze softening as it rested on Elizabeth.
Elizabeth laughed, "And what is your primary concern at present Mr Darcy?"
Darcy stopped walking and turned to face her, his expression suddenly serious. For a moment, Elizabeth felt her heart skip a beat, wondering if she had overstepped.
"My primary concern, Miss Elizabeth," he said softly, his eyes never leaving hers, "is ensuring your happiness."
Elizabeth felt a warmth spread through her chest at his words. "And how do you propose to do that, sir?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Darcy took a step closer, closing the distance between them. "By offering you my heart, if you'll have it," he replied, his voice low and earnest. "Elizabeth, I love you. Most ardently. Would you do me the great honour of becoming my wife?"
Elizabeth's breath caught in her throat. Despite her growing certainty of his affections, hearing the words spoken aloud filled her with an overwhelming joy. She looked into his eyes, seeing all the love and hope reflected there, and knew her answer without a doubt.
"Yes," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "Yes, I will marry you, Fitzwilliam."
The smile that broke across Darcy's face was unlike any Elizabeth had ever seen. He took her hands in his, bringing them to his lips for a gentle kiss. "You have made me the happiest of men," he murmured.
For a moment, they stood there, lost in each other's eyes, the beauty of Pemberley forgotten around them. Then, remembering where they were, Elizabeth laughed softly.
"I suppose we really must return to the house now," she said, her eyes twinkling. "We have some news to share, after all."
Darcy offered her his arm, his smile still radiant. "Indeed we do. Shall we, my dear?"
As they made their way back to the house, Elizabeth felt as though she were walking on air. Whatever challenges lay ahead, she knew that with Darcy by her side, she could face anything. Her time at Pemberley, it seemed, was going to be even more wonderful than she had imagined.
As they approached the house, Darcy and Elizabeth slowed their pace, reluctant to end their private moment. Upon entering, they were met by an older woman with a kind face and dignified bearing.
"Mr Darcy," she said with a nod, before turning her gaze to Elizabeth with obvious curiosity.
"Mrs Reynolds," Darcy replied, a hint of pride in his voice. "May I introduce Miss Elizabeth Bennet?"
Mrs Reynolds' eyes lit up with recognition. "Miss Bennet! It's a pleasure to finally meet you. We've heard so much about you from Miss Darcy."
Elizabeth, slightly taken aback by this warm reception, smiled and replied, "The pleasure is mine, Mrs Reynolds. I hope what you've heard has been favourable."
"Oh, indeed it has, miss," Mrs Reynolds said with a knowing smile, glancing briefly at Mr Darcy, whose ears had reddened slightly.
Darcy cleared his throat. "Mrs Reynolds has been our housekeeper at Pemberley for over twenty years. She practically raised me after my mother passed."
Elizabeth's eyes widened with interest. "Then I'm especially honoured to meet you, Mrs Reynolds. I look forward to hearing all about Mr Darcy as a young boy."
Mrs Reynolds chuckled. "I'd be delighted to share some stories, Miss Bennet. Perhaps during your stay."
Darcy, looking slightly alarmed at this prospect, quickly interjected, "Mrs Reynolds, have our other guests settled in well?"
"Yes, sir. They're gathered in the blue drawing room. Shall I show Miss Bennet to her room first?"
Darcy glanced at Elizabeth, who shook her head slightly. "I believe we'll join the others for now," he said. "Perhaps you could show Miss Bennet to her room in about half an hour?"
"Of course, sir," Mrs Reynolds nodded. "I'll come find you at half past five, Miss Bennet. That should give you ample time to prepare for dinner at seven."
As Mrs Reynolds departed, Elizabeth turned to Darcy with a mischievous glint in her eye. "I do believe I'm going to enjoy my conversations with Mrs Reynolds immensely."
Darcy groaned good-naturedly. "I fear I may live to regret this introduction."
They shared a quiet laugh, then fell into a moment of silence, both acutely aware that they would soon have to rejoin the others and pretend nothing had changed between them. Darcy glanced around quickly to ensure they were alone, then took Elizabeth's hand in his.
"Elizabeth," he said softly, his voice low and intimate. "Before we join the others, I just want to say… I love you. Truly and deeply."
Elizabeth felt her heart swell with emotion. She squeezed his hand gently, her eyes shining as she met his gaze. "And I love you, Fitzwilliam. More than I ever thought possible."
Darcy brought her hand to his lips, pressing a tender kiss to her hand. "Soon," he murmured, "we won't have to hide our happiness."
Elizabeth nodded, a soft smile playing on her lips. "Soon," she agreed.
With one last shared look of love and anticipation, they reluctantly let go of each other's hands and made their way to join the rest of the party in the blue drawing room.
ooOoo
Georgiana couldn't contain her excitement as she, Mr Bingley, and the Gardiners' carriage arrived at Pemberley. Her brother and Elizabeth were nowhere to be seen, and she couldn't help but wonder what was keeping them.
As they entered the house, Miss Bingley, the Hursts, and Mrs Annesley were all there to greet them, having been waiting for their arrival.
"Charles, at last," Miss Bingley said, her voice carrying a hint of irritation. "We were beginning to wonder if you'd all lost your way. But where is Mr Darcy? And Miss Eliza?"
Mr Bingley, his attention mostly on Jane, replied distractedly, "Oh, Darcy took Lizzy on a tour of the grounds. I'm sure they'll join us shortly."
Georgiana noticed a flicker of displeasure cross Miss Bingley's face, but it was quickly replaced by a polite smile. Mr Hurst merely grunted in acknowledgment, while Mrs Hurst echoed her sister's welcoming words with slightly more warmth.
As the party moved towards the drawing room, Georgiana found herself walking beside Jane. Mrs Annesley followed close behind, a gentle presence as always.
"I do hope your sister is enjoying her tour of Pemberley," Georgiana said softly to Jane, unable to keep the hopeful note from her voice.
Jane smiled warmly. "I'm sure she is. Your brother has been very kind, and Elizabeth has always loved exploring beautiful places."
They had just settled into the drawing room when Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth finally joined them. Georgiana couldn't help but notice something different about them - a certain glow, a shared secret in their eyes. But they said nothing out of the ordinary, merely apologizing for their tardiness and joining in the general conversation.
Throughout the afternoon, Georgiana watched her brother and Elizabeth closely. She noticed the way their eyes sought each other out across the room, the soft smiles they exchanged when they thought no one was looking. Something had changed between them, she was sure of it. But whatever it was, they were keeping it to themselves for now.
As the party dispersed to dress for dinner, Georgiana couldn't contain her curiosity any longer. She hurried to her brother's room and knocked softly. When Fitzwilliam opened the door, she could see a new light in his eyes.
"Georgiana? Is everything alright?" he asked, ushering her in.
"Fitzwilliam," she began, her eyes sparkling with excitement, "did something happen between you and Elizabeth during your walk?"
Her brother's smile widened, and he took her hands in his. "Your powers of observation serve you well, dear sister. Yes, something did happen. I've asked Elizabeth to marry me, and she has accepted."
Georgiana let out a small squeal of delight and threw her arms around her brother. "Oh, Fitzwilliam! I'm so happy for you both!"
As they embraced, Fitzwilliam added, "We've agreed not to make a formal announcement just yet. I plan to speak to Mr Gardiner after dinner, as Elizabeth's guardian. We'd like to inform the rest of the family privately first."
Georgiana nodded, understanding the need for discretion. "Of course. But I'm so glad you told me. Elizabeth will make the most wonderful sister!"
ooOoo
Elizabeth joined Jane in her room as soon as she was dressed. too excited to continue her joy to herself any longer. The excitement of the afternoon's events still coursed through her veins, and she found herself unable to contain her joy any longer.
Jane was seated at the dressing table, arranging her hair for dinner. The soft glow of candles illuminated her face, reflecting off the polished surface of the mirror. She smiled warmly as Elizabeth entered, noting the unusual brightness in her sister's eyes.
"Lizzy, you look positively radiant," Jane remarked, turning to face her sister. "Your walk with Mr Darcy must have been quite invigorating."
Elizabeth felt a blush creep up her cheeks. She closed the door behind her and crossed the room, perching on the edge of Jane's bed. Her fingers toyed nervously with the fabric of her dress as she considered how to share her news.
Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth leaned in close to Jane's ear and whispered, "He proposed, Jane. And I accepted."
Jane's eyes widened, a soft gasp escaping her lips. For a moment, she was speechless, her eyes filling with happy tears. Then, with a gentleness characteristic of her nature, she took Elizabeth's hands in hers.
"Oh, Lizzy," she said softly, her voice full of emotion. "My dear sister. Are you truly happy?"
Elizabeth felt her own eyes welling up at Jane's heartfelt concern. "I am, Jane. More than I ever thought possible."
Jane's face broke into a radiant smile. "Then I am overjoyed for you, my dearest Lizzy. Mr Darcy is a good man, and I have seen how he looks at you. I believe you will bring out the best in each other."
Elizabeth squeezed her sister's hands, grateful for her understanding and support. "Thank you, Jane. Your happiness for me means everything."
After a moment, Jane's brow furrowed slightly. "But Lizzy, Pemberley is so far from Netherfield. We've never been separated by such a distance before."
Elizabeth felt a pang at the thought. "I know, Jane. It will be a change for both of us. But we'll write often, and you and Mr Bingley must visit us frequently."
Jane nodded, her expression a mixture of happiness and wistfulness. "Of course we will. And you'll come to Netherfield as well. We'll find a way to see each other regularly, I'm sure."
"Nothing could keep me away for long," Elizabeth assured her, squeezing her sister's hands. "Not even the wilds of Derbyshire."
The sisters shared a quiet laugh, both contemplating the changes ahead but secure in the knowledge that their bond would remain as strong as ever, regardless of the distance between them.
ooOoo
As the party gathered in the drawing room before dinner, Darcy felt a mixture of anticipation and nervousness. He knew that he would make sure to escort Elizabeth into the dining room and made sure to be near her when the meal was announced.
His eyes sought out Elizabeth across the room, and when their gazes met, he felt a thrill of excitement. He noticed Jane leaning in to whisper something to her sister, and then rise to approach Bingley.
Darcy watched as Bingley's face lit up with delight after a brief, hushed conversation with Jane. To his surprise, Bingley immediately made his way over to him.
"I say, Darcy, this is wonderful news!" Bingley said in a low voice, shaking Darcy's hand vigorously. His eyes were filled with genuine joy.
Darcy felt a warmth spread through him at his friend's support. "Thank you, Bingley," he replied quietly.
Bingley then turned to address Elizabeth, giving her a knowing smile and a slight bow.
Darcy watched as Elizabeth thanked Bingley warmly, a becoming blush colouring her cheeks. He felt a surge of affection for both his friend and his soon-to-be-announced fiancée.
Before anyone else could comment on this exchange, Darcy made his way over to Elizabeth. As he reached her, the butler, Mr Parker, appeared at the drawing room door and announced, "Dinner is served, sir."
Darcy offered one arm to Mrs Gardiner, and the other to Elizabeth. He felt a thrill as Elizabeth's hand rested on his arm, and he had to remind himself to maintain decorum.
Behind them, Bingley escorted Jane and Mrs Hurst, while Mr Gardiner accompanied Miss Bingley and Georgiana. Mr Hurst brought up the rear with Mrs Annesley.
As they entered the dining room, Darcy was acutely aware of Elizabeth's presence beside him. He guided Mrs Gardiner to her seat at his left hand, then led Elizabeth to her place at his right. As he pulled out her chair, their eyes met briefly, and Darcy felt his heart race at the secret smile she gave him.
Taking his own seat at the head of the table, Darcy's eyes instinctively sought out Elizabeth again. The soft candlelight caught the auburn highlights in her hair, and he found himself mesmerized by the way her eyes sparkled as she engaged in conversation with those around her.
As the first course was served, Darcy found himself caught between his duties as a host and his desire to focus solely on Elizabeth. He engaged Mrs Gardiner in polite conversation about her connections in Derbyshire, all the while acutely aware of Elizabeth's every movement beside him.
"I must say, Mr Darcy," Caroline Bingley's voice cut through his thoughts, "Pemberley is even more magnificent than I remembered. Don't you agree, Louisa?"
Darcy nodded absently in acknowledgment, his attention caught by a soft laugh from Elizabeth. He watched as she leaned in to whisper something to Georgiana, seated across from her. The two shared a conspiratorial smile, and Darcy felt a surge of warmth seeing the easy rapport between his sister and his future wife.
"Mr Darcy?" Caroline's voice was more insistent now. "I was just saying how lovely it would be to host a ball here at Pemberley. What do you think?"
"Perhaps," Darcy replied non-committally, turning his attention back to his immediate dinner companions. "Though I believe we should focus on enjoying the current company before planning future events."
As the second course was brought out, Darcy found himself in conversation with Mr Gardiner about the fishing prospects in the stream that ran through Pemberley's grounds. He participated in the discussion with genuine interest, but part of his mind was constantly aware of Elizabeth's presence, the sound of her voice, the graceful movement of her hands as she spoke.
When he caught her eye across the table, she gave him a small, secret smile that sent his heart racing. It took all of his self-control not to announce their engagement then and there. Instead, he contented himself with imagining future dinners at Pemberley, with Elizabeth seated beside him not as a guest, but as the mistress of the house.
As the meal progressed, Darcy noticed Jane and Bingley exchanging fond glances, their happiness evident to all. He wondered if anyone at the table could discern the change in his own demeanour, the barely contained joy that threatened to burst forth at any moment.
As the main course was served, the conversation turned to Bingley and Jane's upcoming nuptials.
"Have you decided where you'll settle after the wedding, Bingley?" Darcy asked, genuinely interested in his friend's plans.
Bingley beamed, glancing at Jane. "We've been discussing that very matter. While Netherfield has been a pleasant temporary home, we're looking to purchase an estate of our own."
"Oh?" Darcy raised an eyebrow, curious. "Have you considered any particular areas?"
Jane spoke up, her voice soft but clear. "We're thinking of looking at estates in the north, actually."
This caught Darcy by surprise. He noticed Elizabeth's eyes widen slightly as well.
"North?" Darcy repeated, trying to keep his tone neutral. "That's… unexpected. May I ask what's prompted this consideration?"
Bingley smiled, his eyes never leaving Jane's face. "We've realized that we both enjoy the wilder beauty of the northern counties. And, well…" He hesitated, looking slightly embarrassed.
Jane finished for him, her cheeks tinged with pink. "We thought it might be nice to be closer to Pemberley."
Darcy felt a rush of warmth at this declaration. He caught Elizabeth's eye across the table, seeing his own pleasure mirrored in her gaze.
"That's wonderful news," Darcy said, his voice thick with emotion. "I'd be more than happy to introduce you to some of my acquaintances in Derbyshire or the surrounding counties. There are often fine estates coming up for sale that never make it to the general market."
"That would be most helpful, Darcy," Bingley replied enthusiastically. "What do you think, Mr Gardiner? You know the area well, I believe."
As Mr Gardiner joined the conversation, offering his thoughts on various neighbourhoods and the benefits of owning versus leasing, Darcy found his attention drawn back to Elizabeth. She was listening intently, a thoughtful expression on her face. He longed to ask her opinion, to include her in the planning as if it were their own future they were discussing.
"And what of you, Mr Darcy?" Miss Bingley's voice cut through his reverie. "Surely you don't intend to spend all your time at Pemberley? London society would miss you terribly."
Darcy cleared his throat, aware of Elizabeth's gaze upon him. "Pemberley is my home, Miss Bingley, but I do enjoy the occasional visit to town. Perhaps more frequently in the future." He allowed himself a small smile in Elizabeth's direction.
"I'm sure whoever becomes mistress of Pemberley will have her own ideas about dividing time between country and town," Mrs Gardiner added with a knowing glance between Darcy and Elizabeth.
Darcy felt a warmth spread through him at the thought. Yes, he and Elizabeth would make those decisions together. He looked forward to every moment of it.
"Tell me, Miss Elizabeth," he heard himself say during a lull in conversation, "how do you find Pemberley so far?"
Elizabeth's eyes met his, a hint of mischief in their depths. "It's quite lovely, Mr Darcy," she replied. "Though I confess I've yet to explore it fully. Perhaps you might show me more of the grounds tomorrow?"
"It would be my pleasure," Darcy responded, aware of the double meaning in their exchange. He noticed Caroline Bingley's sharp glance between them but chose to ignore it.
As the dessert course was served, Darcy found himself both impatient for the meal to end so he could speak with Mr Gardiner, and reluctant for this moment of shared secret joy to pass. He savoured each glance, each subtle interaction with Elizabeth, storing them away in his memory.
The evening was drawing to a close, and soon he would be able to make their happiness known to all. But for now, he levered in this precious time, where their love was a cherished secret, known only to them and a select few.
ooOoo
As the gentlemen remained behind for their port, Caroline Bingley rose with the other ladies, her eyes sharp as she observed their movements. She noted with some irritation how closely Miss Eliza Bennet walked beside Georgiana Darcy, the two of them whispering and smiling like old friends.
Once in the drawing room, Caroline positioned herself near Eliza, determined to keep a close watch on the woman who seemed to have captured Mr Darcy's attention.
"Miss Eliza," Caroline said, her voice syrupy sweet, "I couldn't help but notice how familiar you've become with dear Georgiana. One might almost think you'd known each other for years."
Eliza smiled politely. "Georgiana is a delightful young woman. We've found we have much in common."
"Indeed?" Caroline raised an eyebrow. "How… fortunate."
Mrs Gardiner joined their conversation, her eyes twinkling. "I believe music is one of their shared interests. Perhaps we might prevail upon one of you ladies to play for us while we await the gentlemen?"
Before Caroline could offer, Georgiana spoke up. "Oh, Elizabeth, would you play that piece we were discussing earlier? I'd so love to hear it."
Caroline watched, seething internally, as Eliza moved to the pianoforte. As the first notes filled the air, she couldn't help but notice how Mrs Gardiner smiled warmly at her niece, while Louisa looked on with polite interest.
Mrs Gardiner's obvious pride in Eliza only served to increase Caroline's irritation. She turned to Louisa, hoping to find some solidarity, but her sister seemed content to simply enjoy the music without comment.
"Louisa," Caroline whispered, leaning closer to her sister, "don't you think Eliza is being rather forward, monopolizing the instrument like this?"
Louisa merely shrugged, her attention still on the performance. "She plays quite well, Caroline. And she was asked to play, after all."
Frustrated by her sister's lack of support, Caroline turned her attention back to Eliza, determined to find some fault in her performance.
Caroline was about to reply when the door opened, admitting Mr Bingley and Mr Hurst. Her brother immediately moved to Jane's side, while Mr Hurst settled into a comfortable chair near Louisa.
Several minutes passed, filled with light conversation and another musical performance, this time from Georgiana. Caroline found herself growing increasingly anxious, wondering what could be keeping Mr Darcy and Mr Gardiner.
Finally, after what seemed an eternity to Caroline, the door opened once more. Mr Darcy entered, followed closely by Mr Gardiner. Caroline's breath caught as she saw Mr Darcy's eyes immediately seek out Eliza. There was something in his expression, a mixture of nervousness and joy, that she had never seen before.
Mr Gardiner approached his wife, speaking to her in low tones. Mrs Gardiner's eyes widened, and she glanced between Mr Darcy and Eliza, a smile spreading across her face.
Darcy moved towards Eliza with purpose, bending to speak quietly to her. Whatever he said caused a blush to spread across Eliza's cheeks, and she nodded, rising to join him.
"If I might have everyone's attention," Darcy said, his voice carrying across the room. "There is a matter of great importance I wish to share with you all."
Caroline felt as though the ground was shifting beneath her feet. She turned to her sister, her composure finally cracking. "Louisa," she hissed, "what on earth is happening?"
But even as the words left her lips, Caroline knew. The realization dawned on her with a sickening clarity, and she could only watch in stunned silence as her carefully laid plans crumbled before her eyes.