Chapter 11 #2
The noise grew as several of the diners spoke at once, congratulating him on having a good idea for a change, and commenting on what a wonderful evening it would be for Anne. Poor Anne’s voice was lost in the din, “I do not wish to be the centre of attention…”
~ / ~
Richard and Darcy escorted Anne to the Rushmore’s ball, despite Lady Catherine’s objections. They introduced her to their acquaintances, ensuring her dances were reserved only by partners they approved of. The formidable stares of both cousins daunted everyone but gentlemen who were trustworthy.
Mr Patrick Lloyd approached when the opening notes of the first dance signalled the start of the ball.
Richard bowed over Anne’s hand before handing it to Mr Lloyd, whispering softly in her ear, “Do not let anyone take you elsewhere other than back to our side. Rest assured, dear cousin, we will keep our eyes on you.”
He beamed at her first partner and clapped him on shoulder, harder than necessary, “Enjoy the dance, children.”
The couple walked away to join the lines. Richard tutted, saying as an aside to Darcy, “The chicks leave the nest all too soon.”
Neither Richard nor Darcy danced that night, aside from when they stood up with Anne.
The night had grown long when Darcy nudged his cousin with his elbow, “Richard, have you ever been in love?”
“Love, Darce? Has some maiden finally caught your heart? Might it be the fair Miss Bennet?”
“I do not believe so. At least not in the way love should be. According to her, that is.”
In response to his cousin’s quizzing glance, he concluded, “Love is giving, not taking.”
“I believe you are thinking too hard, Darce. I can see your brain melting out your ears.” The look he gave his cousin was mirthful but seeing his frown, Richard grew serious. “That is some heavy topic of conversation for a clandestine walk in Hyde Park.”
Darcy rolled his eyes at him. “Think about it, Richard. The church defines love as selflessness and sacrifice. But it is more than that. True love happens when one endeavours to make sure the object of your desire is happy and well, above and beyond your own desires and wellbeing.”
His gaze focused on the ceiling, the young officer contemplated before responding.
“Makes sense. I have a kind of affection for my men and fellow soldiers. We fight side by side, protecting each other’s backs while our lives are on the line.
As brothers in arms, we are bound closely together, even if you do not necessarily like the other person. ”
Darcy was silent for a time, letting the music wash over him. When he felt he could respond calmly, he said, “Forgive me. You do not discuss your time overseas.”
“Because it is there and there is the dying, and now I am here and I wish to enjoy the living.” Richard inhaled and let it out slowly, “I shall be returning soon.”
“Already?”
“All will be well, Darce,” he snorted. “Perhaps I shall be fortunate to earn a promotion on the battlefield, yet again. How shall you like addressing me as Major or even Lieutenant Colonel when next I return home?”
Darcy gripped his favourite cousin’s shoulder. “I shall pray for you, Richard.”
~ / ~
Dear Elizabeth,
You are invited to tea at Darcy House. Wednesday at three o'clock.
I do hope you can make it. My cousin, Miss Anne de Bourgh, is visiting and she wishes to make your acquaintance.
Georgiana
Elizabeth used the knocker on Darcy House at precisely three o'clock. There was a slight tremor in her hands at the possibility of seeing Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy again. He had not joined her on her walks since their last serious conversation.
The door opened and she was escorted to Lady Anne’s sitting room, after handing her bonnet and spencer to a maid.
The room was occupied by four women. Lady Anne and Georgiana she already knew. Seated next to Georgiana was a pale, young lady about Elizabeth’s age, while next to Lady Anne sat a stiff-backed older woman.
“Elizabeth!” Georgiana hopped up and hastened over to greet her friend.
“Georgiana, thank you for the invitation.” Elizabeth turned to Lady Anne and curtseyed, “My lady.”
She then stood with her hands clasped in front of her in a ladylike fashion and waited.
Lady Anne frowned at her sister’s silence, then stood and walked over to Elizabeth. “Miss Bennet, my sister, and her daughter expressed an interest in meeting you. Miss Elizabeth Bennet, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and her daughter, Miss Anne de Bourgh.”
“How do you do?” Elizabeth barely had time to curtsey, before Georgiana dragged her over to sit beside Miss de Bourgh.
“Elizabeth, I was telling Anne all about our practice sessions, and how much fun they are.”
Elizabeth thought she heard a soft snort from one of the older women.
“Our practices do tend more to amusement, than strict practicing. But I find I tolerate playing more when enjoyment replaces obligation. Listeners, if my critics are to be believed, find pleasure in hearing my music, as well as any proficient performer.”
“I should have liked to learn the piano, I think. Growing up I was not well much of the time. It kept me from acquiring many of the accomplishments considered acceptable for young ladies.” Anne's soft voice held a tinge of regret.
Elizabeth’s eyebrows rose. “There is no time like the present.”
Both girls looked at her and she grinned.
“And why not? Everyone is a beginner when they start. Miss de Bourgh can learn to play for her amusement, not because she must provide entertainment. I say learn just enough to enjoy yourself and be able to play for a gaggle of children.” She finished impishly and all three girls giggled softly.
“Georgiana here is so proficient, she may be your first master.”
“Lizzy! Not in the least, I assure you.” Georgiana blushed at the compliment.
“Nay, Georgiana. You are very talented, and more importantly, you have patience. That is essential for any beginning student. There, I have set your mornings up perfectly. Is that not very good of me?” Elizabeth charmed her listeners and soon the three were happily chattering amongst themselves.
On the other side of the room Lady Catherine shifted in her seat, keeping a gimlet eye on her daughter. “I do not like it, Anne. Who is she, and more importantly, who are her parents? She might have taken you all in by design.”