by Lauren King
“Well, I am glad that you are more open to seeing the differences. So, how are you going to go about seeking out Miss Elizabeth – through Georgiana?” Richard smiles devilishly.
“That is the best way it seems. I do not think Miss Elizabeth is very impressed with me, with my wealth, or with my social status. I was quiet today because it seemed that she did not care to talk to me. I tried to catch her eyes so I could smile at her, but she would not look my way; I do not think she wishes to associate with me.” For the first time, Darcy experiences what it feels like for a young lady not to fawn all over him because he is Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley. It just so happens that this young lady is who Darcy wishes would give him some attention.
“I do not think Elizabeth does not want to associate with you. She is very sociable, and she likes everyone that is nice. You look rather arrogant and haughty if you do not smile and talk. You are always observing people, which is not bad, but with your status and reputation, people will be intimidated by you. They will not include you in whatever is going on at the time because they will not want to bother you. I know you are friendly, kind, responsible, caring, fair, considerate, and all the good things. However, not many people know you as well as me or our families. You have to show them a little bit of yourself so that they know you are not too closed off, too superior, or too proud. I know you are not excessive like that. I am not saying that you have to jabber or gossip with everyone, but perhaps you can be more open in your demeanor. Then, you will not look too intimidating. You know that with your status you will have to initiate the conversation or make the first comment before anyone below you can react.”
Darcy contemplates Richard’s comments and then asks, “I look intimidating, superior, and proud?” Darcy is surprised; he never purposely treats anyone that way. He acts within in the confines of his station and upbringing. He is shy; that is why he does not approach people and start mundane conversations with them. Moreover, he does not feel comfortable with strangers, especially when he knows that they all regard him as a prize to be won or as an advantage to capture.
“Darcy, those things are not necessarily bad when you need them for certain situations, but people not of your social stature and wealth will think differently about you. This is what I think; if you really like Miss Elizabeth, then you should show her the side of you that your family knows. She will be able to see that you are very good person. I think that you two could suit each other well. Do you like her much?”
“I like what I have seen and heard from her thus far. I only hope that she is in no way like her Mother. I know I will not be able to tolerate her if she is like her Mother.” Darcy is quiet for a few seconds then continues. “I want to know her better; I am attracted to her. Does she currently have any suitors? Do you know?”
“I do not know. We have not become that friendly, yet. However, as I have told you, I saw many men admire her at that ball where I first saw her. I do not doubt that she has had some callers. What I saw was that Lucas Allston was clearly interested in Elizabeth at that ball. Mr. Harold Allston was the host. Lucas Allston is the eldest son of Mr. Harold Allston whose family owns the third largest bank in London. Lucas Allston graduated from Cambridge a few years ago. I tell you; Elizabeth was much admired that night. Oh! Bingley was there that night too. You can get his impressions about that night. And, I just remembered something.”
“What?”
“I think Lucas Allston has called upon Elizabeth because of something her little cousin, Athena, innocently said to me that Saturday when I called on Elizabeth.”
“Certainly, I did not think that Miss Elizabeth would not have callers. Well, I will see how things go. Miss Elizabeth is to come here for you and Georgiana tomorrow at one o’clock?”
“Yes, what are you going to do?”
“I want to see if Georgiana would like to invite Miss Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner to go to the museum with us one day and then afterwards have luncheon here. I will be charming, open, and non-superior.” Darcy holds a serious face for a few seconds before both cousins chuckle together.
At this point, the butler, Mr. Brooks, knocks on Darcy’s study door to give him a letter that just came for Richard. After Richard reads it, he looks at Darcy with a grin and a plan.
“Well, cousin, you will not have to wait too long to see Miss Elizabeth again and show her your charming self.” Richard grins mischievously.
“What do you mean?” Darcy knows that look; Richard is up to something.
“What I mean is that I have just been summoned to my General’s office tomorrow; therefore, I will not be able to go with Georgie when she meets Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner. That means you will have to go with her. Then, you will have the excuse to see Elizabeth and make a very good impression this time. That sounds like destiny to me.” Richard chortles.
“I do not think I want to ambush their shopping outing like that. Miss Elizabeth may not be comfortable seeing me, and she may dislike me for coming uninvited. I will stick with my idea of going to the museum and having luncheon.” Darcy states decidedly.
“Darcy, you will have to wait longer to see her, then. She is sure to have more admirers calling upon her. I think you should strike when you can, and try to get her attentions first. Why leave it until later?” Richard is keen on Darcy getting to know Elizabeth over some other gentleman.
“Goodness, Richard. I want to proceed quickly too, but I also do not want her to dislike me for being improper.” Being proper is very important to Darcy.
“You can never be improper, Darcy. All I am saying is be quick about it. Take a chance. Greet her attentively and with warmth when she comes tomorrow and see how she reacts. Then maybe you can suggest that since I cannot come, you can go with them if they do not mind. The worse is that she will react negatively to it, but I know that she will be discreet about it. However, being the observant person that you always are, you will know what to do after you see her reaction. Clever, right?” Richard grins with satisfaction at his plan for his cousin.
“Richard, Richard…clever, yes.” They both chuckle together again.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16th – GARDINER RESIDENCE
Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner sit in the drawing room talking to each other about the gowns that they will need for the Christmas ball and the New Year’s ball that one of Mr. Gardiner’s other friends will be hosting. Mrs. Gardiner says that Elizabeth will get two more gowns and Elizabeth objects, but Mrs. Gardiner will not hear of it. Elizabeth thanks Mrs. Gardiner for her generosity when Mildred opens the drawing room door to announce Mr. Lucas Allston.
All the courtesies are conveyed by the three people. Mr. Allston’s eyes move directly to Miss Elizabeth and then to Mrs. Gardiner as he says, “My Mother sends her best regards to both of you ladies, and she hopes that you all can have tea, again, next week.”
“Thank you, Mr. Allston. Please, send your Mother my best regards and let her know that I will send her a note.” Mrs. Gardiner smiles amiably.
“I will, Mrs. Gardiner.” Mr. Allston readily emits joy; he has been eagerly waiting to see her this morning. He hopes his sentiments are reciprocated. They seem to get along with most everything so far. He likes her, and he will try to find out her inclination, but he does not want to be too forward because Miss Elizabeth is a genteel, proper young lady.
The three chat about the colder and foggier weather, the parts of Hyde Park that will be decorated for Christmas, and the different plays that are offered. Elizabeth has not been in London during Christmas before, so Mrs. Gardiner is eager to show her the decorations. Little Athena comes into the sitting room to ask Mrs. Gardiner to read to her; hence, they go to the table near the window to sit.
Elizabeth and Mr. Allston discuss many subjects during their hour visit. They enjoy their time together, and there is a lot of laughter. She enjoys talking with Mr. Allston, but since she has made the acquaintance of Mr. Darcy, she admits that she is much more attracted to Mr. Darcy than to any other gentleman.
However, Mr. Darcy is not wooing her; he did not even try to talk to her. She does not think he even thinks of her. She can imagine that if he has seen her Mother, then he will not have a good impression of her entire family – her, included. Nevertheless, she is still attracted to Mr. Darcy. It is not only due to the fact that Mr. Darcy is utterly and undoubtedly handsome, but also she has heard from Mr. Bingley, Georgiana, and Richard that Mr. Darcy is a good man. Georgiana praises him to the sky; Richard and Mr. Bingley also commend Mr. Darcy rather impressively. She would not mind getting to know Mr. Darcy, but she does not think he is interested in her, at all. That is that.
When Mr. Allston’s visit ends, he asks to call upon Elizabeth this Wednesday. She grants him the ten o’clock hour; he gladly accepts. He feels that things are going well between them.
SUNDAY – DARCY HOUSE
Darcy is in his study with Georgiana while they wait for Miss Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner to come for their shopping outing. Darcy tells Georgiana that she can let Miss Elizabeth know that he is more than glad to take Richard’s place only if Miss Elizabeth is agreeable to it. He does not want her to feel uncomfortable or obligated to the situation. He decides not to be present to witness her reaction so it will not be awkward for anyone.
Mrs. Gardiner waits in the carriage as Elizabeth goes inside Darcy House to collect Georgiana and Richard. Georgiana and Elizabeth greet each other, but Elizabeth does not see Richard. Georgiana explains that Richard was called away by his General; William is more than glad to escort the ladies today.
“Oh…but…Georgiana I do not think we should force your brother to come with us. I do not think he will be comfortable with me present for the entire time. I do not want him to feel awkward to be where he does not wish to be and converse with people he does not know. If you cannot come with us today, then we will go shopping another time when Richard or Mrs. Annesley is able to accompany you. Please, do not bother your brother, all right, Georgiana?” Elizabeth says understandingly and honestly. She does not want to make him uneasy anymore than he has been already.
“Elizabeth, truly, William is glad to go with us. He said so himself. I do not believe that he does not want to get to know you better. He is usually quiet around people that he has just made acquaintances of – just like me. He is all that is nice and kind. It is fun to talk with him; he just has to know the person well before he is open with them.” Georgiana explains candidly. She wants Elizabeth to be comfortable with her brother who she loves most in the whole world. He is the best brother anyone could ask for. She definitely does not want Elizabeth to misinterpret William.
“Are you sure he does not mind coming with three women, Georgiana?” Elizabeth desperately tries to find reasons for Mr. Darcy not to come with them. It could be a very uncomfortable outing.
“He does not mind, Elizabeth. I will get him so we can go, all right?” Georgiana wants to make light of Elizabeth’s concern.
“Well…if you are sure he will not mind spending time with us.” Elizabeth is hesitant, but Georgiana seems intent on her brother coming with them; therefore, she could not decline. She just hopes that Mr. Darcy will not be discomfited or annoyed at her.
While Elizabeth waits in the drawing room for Georgiana to retrieve Mr. Darcy, Georgiana explains to William Elizabeth’s concern, but she is agreeable to have him come with them. Darcy decides that he will show Miss Elizabeth that he is more than willing to spend time with her.
“Good afternoon, Miss Elizabeth. How are you today?” Darcy says most charmingly with a warm smile, and then he bows most chivalrously.
“I am well; thank you, Mr. Darcy.” Elizabeth is taken aback by Mr. Darcy’s engaging manner today, but she catches her surprise and smiles demurely as she curtsies back. “How are you this afternoon, sir?” She looks directly at his beautiful blue eyes that are captivating and at his handsome smile that is directed solely at her. Oh goodness, he is handsome! Certainly, she wants him to come with them, but she sincerely does not want him to feel uneasy and forced.
“I am very well, thank you. I hope you do not mind that I will be taking Richard’s place in today’s outing.” Darcy looks at her beautiful face and cannot look elsewhere; she is enchanting.
“Not at all, sir. I just did not want you to waste your time coming with three ladies and being bored.” Elizabeth says sensitively.
“I will not be bored, Miss Elizabeth. It is my pleasure to be with all of you today.” He smiles attractively – no arrogance, no superiority, no intimidation.
At Mrs. Templeton’s shop, the ladies look at the many fabrics for their gowns while Darcy sits reading the newspaper in the outer waiting room. At one point, Elizabeth stands by herself to look at some gloves on display near Mr. Darcy. She is undecided about three different pairs of gloves; as she is comparing them, she accidentally drops one pair to the ground. Before she reaches for them, Mr. Darcy already retrieves it for her.
“Here you are, Miss Elizabeth.” Darcy smiles amiably at her as he hands her the gloves.
“Thank you, sir. That was clumsy of me.” Elizabeth smiles warmheartedly back, and she senses a change in Mr. Darcy. Is she imagining it?
“All three pairs are quite pretty, Miss Elizabeth.” Darcy joyously volunteers his opinion. He just wants to talk to her; he does not care what the conversation is about.
She will be brave. “They are all pretty, but I am only going to choose two pairs. What do you think of these two pairs, sir?” She smiles demurely while looking straight at Mr. Darcy’s pretty blue eyes. Can it be possible that he becomes more handsome each time she sees him?
“Yes, they are pretty. Maybe you should try both on to see.” Darcy helpfully suggests.
Elizabeth does just that and then asks, “What do you think, Mr. Darcy?” She extends her hands and arms for him to see.
“I agree that your first choice of these two are correct. They are more elegant than that third pair. What do you think, Miss Elizabeth?” Darcy is glad he took the initiative to converse with her. She is absolutely adorable.
“I agree with you; these two are more elegant. Thank you for your help, Mr. Darcy.” Elizabeth answers with pleasure as she pulls her gaze away from him and back to her gloves. She feels…different with their interaction. Her stomach is light and giddy to speak on such friendly terms with him.
“Miss Elizabeth, may I be allowed to clear up a misunderstanding about yesterday?”
“Oh…umm…was there a misunderstanding, sir?” Mr. Darcy’s request surprises Elizabeth, and she is worried to learn anything negative.
“I think so; I want to assure you that, yesterday, I never meant to indicate to you that you had to leave my home by looking at my pocket watch. I never meant to give you that impression. It was purely coincidental that I looked at my pocket watch to prevent any awkwardness, yet I caused a misunderstanding. I feel horrible that I could have given you that rude impression of myself. I am sorry it came across that way. It was ill-thinking on my part. I hope that you will forgive me for my accidental gesture.” Darcy says frankly and sincerely.
“I…Mr. Darcy, I appreciate your explanation. To be honest, I thought that we were bothering you with our visit. It is your right not to be happy with people who overstay their welcome. It was ill-mannered of us to have stayed so long.” Elizabeth says quietly. She has been embarrassed since yesterday.
“No, no, Miss Elizabeth. Please, do not think such things.” Darcy says earnestly. “I was not at all offended or uncomfortable by yours and your Aunt’s visit. I thought that you were uncomfortable with my presence. I doubt that you could have ill manners, Miss Elizabeth, and you did not overstay your welcome, at all. I was happy to have you visit our home. I have been recently told that if I do not smile or talk, I look intimidating or closed off, and people will misinterpret that as arrogance. I am not as talkative as Richard; therefore, I can see, retrospectively, that you could have misinterpreted my actions. This is why I want to explain to you today. I do not want you to continue to
misunderstand me.” Darcy says with utmost sincerity.
Quietly, Elizabeth says, “I…I understand now; thank you, Mr. Darcy.” Elizabeth’s spirits instantly lift, and she can feel joy permeate throughout her body. It was all a misinterpretation by both of them. “Since both of us misread each other, then both of us understand one another better, now – I hope, Mr. Darcy?” Elizabeth smiles warmly at him.
“Yes, we understand each other better now. I hope that you will not ever feel uncomfortable visiting Darcy House, again. You are most welcomed there.” Darcy states effortlessly.
Elizabeth cannot help but feel giddy. Oh, Lord! “Thank you, Mr. Darcy.” Elizabeth smiles shyly. Is Mr. Darcy being nice like a suitor would be nice, or is he just being nice like a gentleman would be nice? Elizabeth, surely, hopes that it is the former.
Elizabeth must change the topic or else she will blush visibly. She can feel Mr. Darcy’s gaze upon her, and it is making her very shy now. “Mr. Darcy, I hope we have not ruined your plans for today – traipsing around with three ladies for hours like this.”
“It is my pleasure to traipse around with these three specific ladies although if only one lady wants me around, then I will be most happy.” Darcy says flirtatiously; that was not too forward, right?
Oh my goodness; did Mr. Darcy just say what she thought he said? Oh my! She feels the warmth of her cheeks blushing. Suddenly, Elizabeth hears Georgiana’s voice.