Chapter 2 Enchanted #3
Darcy, fully aware of Miss Bingley’s intention in doing a foot march in and around him, made a conscious effort to ignore her.
Isn’t she the same person who insulted Miss Elizabeth by calling her a great walker?
Then Miss Elizabeth joined the walking party and Darcy couldn’t help but look up.
Miss Bingley invited him to join. But he declined saying that that defeats both the purposes of them choosing to walk the length and breadth of the room in the first place.
When he was asked to explain, he artlessly concurred by saying
“You either choose this method of passing the evening because you are in each other’s confidence, and have secret affairs to discuss, or because you are conscious that your figures appear to the greatest advantage in walking: if the first, I should be completely in your way; and if the second, I can admire you much better as I sit by the fire. ”
He was delighted when Miss Elizabeth immediately took an exception and chose to inflict their revenge on him by “teasing” him. Oh, how I welcome that.
Caroline
Caroline found herself in a predicament of her own making.
She only wanted Mr. Darcy to notice them together and realize how superior her figure was when compared with Miss Eliza.
Yet, she hadn't foreseen Mr. Darcy discerning her motives so astutely.
Even more unexpected was his readiness to openly expose her intentions for all to hear.
Given that she had initiated this charade, all blame will be on her shoulders.
Furthermore, she was never going to tease Mr. Darcy, especially in the presence of Miss Eliza.
Oh God, how can I escape this predicament?
Elizabeth
Elizabeth was utterly taken aback when Mr. Darcy candidly revealed that he had a better view of their figures if he remained seated. She never considered why Miss Bingley chose to walk in front of Mr. Darcy at all.
Was she trying to attract Mr. Darcy in the first place? Oh, I just walked into the trap.
Her natural response when faced with an uncomfortable situation was always to tease her way out.
I hope Miss Bingley has a better solution in her sleeve. It is her doing anyway.
Darcy
Darcy had never seen Miss Bingley look as discomposed as she did at that moment. He was quite certain that she was never going to tease him.
If I am going to get teased, I know from which source.
However, Miss Bingley rallied and remarked that a man of his calmness and presence of mind could never truly be a subject for teasing.
Miss Elizabeth took exception to that assertion, expressing that a man incapable of being teased was rather dull, and she indeed cherished a good laugh.
He never quite understood how this discourse evolved into a discussion of pride, vanity, and implacable resentment, even though he actively participated in it.
He concluded it by stating that when there is a real superiority of mind, pride will always be in good regulation.
He couldn't fathom why Miss Elizabeth tried to suppress her smile. Those were his mother’s words, something he had taken to heart at the tender age of thirteen.
Why is she laughing at me?
Then she accused him of his propensity to hate everybody. He smiled back and countered it by accusing her of wilful misunderstanding. When Miss Bingley diverted them by insisting on some music, Darcy was disappointed. He was enjoying himself. She is a marvel.
Elizabeth
There, Mr. Darcy admitted to one of his many failures, excessive pride. It seems he is wearing it like a crown though.
Ever since the first day of their acquaintance, the day he had insulted her, Elizabeth had been puzzled by some of Mr. Darcy's peculiar behaviour.
After making it clear that she does not tempt him, why does he continue to ask her for a dance?
Why does he persist in staring at her as if to find her faults? Couldn't he simply ignore her?
There was also the issue of the disdain and aloofness he frequently exhibited toward everyone beyond his immediate circle.
It was evident that he held no regard for anyone in the neighbourhood, herself included.
He appeared indifferent to the opinions of the 'lowly' residents of Meryton.
Then, why did he persist in engaging in intricate, and often impassioned, discussions with her, as if he valued her opinions and thoughts?
It seemed as though he was toying with her.
Well, Sir, you don’t know me yet. My courage rises at every effort to intimidate me. I can hold my fort against any attack from you. I can even trick you to confess your failures in public.
Caroline
Caroline saw Miss Eliza going on and on about pride and vanity and Mr. Darcy not holding back. She had enough.
What is she up to? Why is Mr. Darcy encouraging her? Can’t he just shut up and stay silent for once? That’s his forte anyway.
After a while she decided to intervene by insisting on some music. To think that it was my idea to invite Miss Bennet here. What was I thinking?
Saturday, November 16, 1811
Elizabeth
Elizabeth had sent a note to her father early in the morning, but her hopes were dashed when her mother, not her father, responded, explaining that the carriage would not be available for another three days.
Oh, Mama, what are you thinking? Don't you realize how improper this is?
With no other viable options, she made up her mind to request the use of Mr. Bingley's carriage to take them home. She confided her decision to Jane, who agreed, although Elizabeth sensed a longing in her sister's eyes for more time with Mr. Bingley.
I understand your sentiments, dear Jane. It's not as if we are travelling out of the country. Longbourn is just three miles away. And I can assure you that Mr. Bingley will be at our doorstep every day.
Caroline
Caroline was so delighted by the departure of the Bennet ladies that she went so far as to embrace Miss Bennet and hold Miss Elizabeth's hands.
Thank goodness. Now we can have the house to ourselves. Farewell, ladies. I hope our paths never cross again.
She had already devised a plan to entice her brother back to London, far from the influence of Miss Jane Bennet. It would require some persuasive efforts.
I might need Mr. Darcy's assistance. Charles always listens to Mr. Darcy.
Since her brother had promised a ball, they couldn't depart before hosting it. A gentleman must always honour his commitments.
What was Charles thinking when he promised a blasted ball for these mediaeval people? Who is here to appreciate it anyway? There's no other option. I must keep vigil to ensure these Bennet chits don't ensnare Charles or Mr. Darcy.
Darcy
As Darcy assisted Miss Elizabeth into Bingley’s carriage, he couldn't fathom the turmoil within his mind.
Wasn't it my resolve to keep my distance from Miss Elizabeth to prevent raising her expectations? Wasn’t it a torture to live here with she in attendance? Then, why do I feel so empty inside when that “torture” is moving away?
Darcy stared at her rapidly disappearing face as the carriage proceeded beyond the Netherfield gate.
God in heaven, she is beautiful.