Elizabeth Bennet's Deception: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary

by Regina Jeffers

  “Most certainly.” He grinned. “I spoil my nephews and then send them home for their parents to discipline.” They stepped from the way of the late arriving theatergoers. “I know my duty, Etta. I am well aware of my responsibility to the dukedom.”

  * * *

  He stepped upon the stage, and Angelica’s heart raced. The audience quieted, and everyone leaned forward in anticipation. Like the others spectators, she slid to the edge of her seat and waited for the opera’s opening notes. Without ever hearing him sing, Angel knew he would be a compelling baritone, one to mesmerize every female in the theatre.

  As he opened his mouth for the first phrases, he made a slow advance to the stage’s edge and then down the side steps beyond the imaginary fourth wall of the stage. She knew he was coming for her: His gaze remained locked upon her countenance. It was as if she could feel the heat of his breath upon her cheek. As his voice rose to fill every corner of the house, he reached for her, and Angelica placed her hand in his.