Chapter 2.14 #4
Georgiana turned to Elizabeth. “Mr. Bingley told us you walked three miles from Longbourn to Netherfield to take care of Miss Bennet. My aunt and I found that to be an admirable gesture.”
“Yes, I did, but it was nothing. I would walk much further for any of my sisters,” Elizabeth said smiling.
“I imagined as much.” Miss Darcy returned the smile then turned to the others. “Miss Lizzy was incredibly courageous saving my little kitten. She actually climbed a dangerous tree and took Mist down before he could run off or hurt himself. Mist is my cat.”
“Yes, I can imagine Lizzy doing that,” Jane agreed.
Elizabeth waved her hand in disapproval. “Miss Darcy is too kind; it was nothing. But you know —Mist is a very rare breed of cat. He is actually blue. I have never seen one as beautiful.”
“He is? A blue cat?” Kitty asked incredulously.
“Yes, Miss Kitty. He is a sort of greyish-blue,” Georgiana said. “My aunt purchased it for me.”
The conversation continued in the same manner, increasingly animated, five young women enjoying each other’s company.
Elizabeth was amazed that Miss Darcy seemed comfortable among her sisters.
She easily adapted to Kitty and Mary, and her younger sisters quickly recognised Miss Darcy’s superior education.
They heard her speak of music, theatre, and books —and Miss Darcy appeared more willing to talk than Elizabeth had ever seen her before.
Dry clothes from Netherfield finally arrived. The maid handed over the package then announced that Mrs. Bennet and the gentlemen awaited them in the drawing room where refreshments were prepared.
The others left, and Elizabeth helped Georgiana change while their conversation continued.
“I really liked the trip, Miss Lizzy. Thank you for suggesting it. And although the rain interfered with our plans, it was a lovely opportunity to spend more time with your sisters. They are all so nice and friendly.”
“We were happy with your company too, Miss Darcy. I can safely say that you charmed my entire family. And…I hope you do not mind my asking, but…would you mind calling me by my given name? Elizabeth —or Lizzy as my family does,” Elizabeth asked, watching carefully for Georgiana’s reaction.
The girl’s eyes showed her immediate approval.
“I would like that very much…and please call me Georgiana. I would like that very much indeed.”
“Very well, Georgiana. That is lovely indeed —as long as Mr. Darcy does not mind,” Elizabeth added.
Georgiana looked puzzled.
“Why would he mind? I am sure he would not, Miss Lizzy —forgive me, Lizzy —I know my brother seems severe, and I know you two have had disagreements in the past…and he was upset and unfair when we met in London…but he was only worried for me. I have… it was a difficult year, and it was entirely my fault that I gave him reason for concern. But he is indeed the best man and the best brother. Everybody who knows him shares the same opinion.”
The girl’s voice trembled as her anxiety increased. When her eyes moistened with tears she obviously struggled to overcome, Elizabeth held her hands.
“Georgiana, any past disagreements I might have had with Mr. Darcy are long gone. I know he is doing everything for your benefit; anyone who sees you together can testify to this. Now —shall we join the others? They must be expecting us.”
“Yes, of course,” Georgiana whispered. “Lizzy, I am very happy that we have come to Hertfordshire —very happy indeed. I will be sorry to leave.”
“As will I, dear Georgiana,” Elizabeth answered, holding the girl’s arm gently.
The moment they entered the drawing room, they were met by Mrs. Bennet.
“Lizzy, I have always known that you favoured your father over me, but I never imagined you had so little consideration for my nerves. Where on earth did you get the strange habit of wandering outdoors, child? And you took your guests with you and kept them in the rain? How could you do that? What if somebody was harmed just before Jane’s wedding? ”
Elizabeth glanced at Darcy in embarrassment, but he seemed to be occupied with his drink.
“Mama, it was unfortunate that it began to rain. The walk to Oakham Mount is usually a pleasant one, and both Mr. and Miss Darcy enjoyed it.”
“Of course, they said they enjoyed it. What else could they say? Upon my word, Lizzy, if the king himself should happen to come to Longbourn, I am sure you would take him for a walk —preferably in the rain to be certain he fell ill afterward,” Mrs. Bennet concluded angrily.
Darcy choked and spilled his drink, then glanced at Elizabeth who was watching him with cheerful eyes. He could not remember when he was so amused. And the image of his sister —smiling at Elizabeth’s side and appearing perfectly at ease —lifted his mood even more.
Laughter filled the room, but Mrs. Bennet remained solemn. Elizabeth decided to make peace, and she embraced her mother.
“I apologise for the distress I caused you, Mama. And I promise that, if His Majesty ever comes to Longbourn, I will allow you to set the schedule.”