by AmyJ
"Lizzy, please stay," Jane pleaded weakly.
It took only a little pleading on Jane's part before Elizabeth acquiesced. She no longer cared what Miss Bingley thought or wanted. Her sister's health and
comfort was paramount. Looking up at Bingley, she said, "I thank you for your offer, Mr. Bingley. Let me see to Jane's comfort and then I shall be down for dinner."
Bingley beamed brightly. "Of course, Miss Elizabeth. I shall see that dinner is delayed another half hour while my sister has a room made up for you. Will
that be enough time?"
At Elizabeth's affirmation, both Bingleys quit the room.
Jane was sleeping, but continued to move about restlessly. After nearly an hour, Jane was resting a bit more comfortably, but Elizabeth's concern had not
abated. Though she was loath to leave her sister, she had promised an
appearance at dinner, and did not wish to offend her hosts much more. She was already late, and could only imagine the scornful looks she would receive from Miss Bingley. With a mischievous giggle, she hoped Miss Bingley would be
too distracted with Mr. Darcy to give much attention to her tardy appearance.
Chapter Six
When she entered the dining room that evening, Elizabeth was not surprised to find the rest of the Netherfield residents already seated, and was grateful they had not felt it necessary to wait for her before starting the first course. The gentlemen rose from the table to greet her, and Bingley stepped to pull out her chair. She ignored the cool reception she received from Bingley's sisters. With a contrite smile, she apologized for her tardiness, and explained that while Jane had a difficult time falling asleep, she was indeed now resting somewhat
peacefully.
Conversation throughout dinner was superficial; it revolved primarily around Miss Bingley seeking Darcy's approval on every dish and asking how it
compared to the way it was prepared at Pemberley. Throughout the exchange,
Elizabeth was careful not to make eye contact with anyone. She was quite
certain that had she caught the eye of Bingley, Georgiana, or Darcy, she would not be able to stifle her amusement.
Thankfully for everyone present, there were moments when Miss Bingley
ceased her fawning. During those times, the topics of the weather, shooting, and fishing were found to be extremely interesting.
After dinner, Bingley opted against a separation of the sexes, and everyone made their way to the music room for coffee and cakes. Once her guests were well settled, Miss Bingley made her way to the pianoforte. "Do you play, Miss Eliza?" she asked, seemingly innocently.
"A little, and not very well," came the polite reply. Even if she had played divinely, Elizabeth was simply too tired to do any piece justice, and Miss
Bingley had given her an easy excuse by sitting at the pianoforte first.
After a superior smile, Miss Bingley turned her attention to Georgiana. "My dear Georgiana, I would so love to hear you play. Your playing is exquisite. I do not believe I have heard better in all of London." After pulling out a particular piece of music, she added, "I have just the piece. It can even be played as a duet." She sent her best smile in Georgiana's direction.
Panicked by the request, Georgiana looked to her brother and then Elizabeth.
Thankfully, Darcy intervened by saying, "Perhaps another time, Miss Bingley.
My sister is not feeling her best at the moment and would prefer to observe."
Unfortunately, Darcy's comment did not have quite the desired effect. The idea of Georgiana being ill threw Miss Bingley into a flutter. "Oh my dear, dear Georgiana, why did you not tell me!" She rose from the pianoforte, but was forestalled from any further action by Georgiana.
"Thank you for your concern, Miss Bingley. I am only a little fatigued." She held her breath and dropped her eyes to floor, hoping the attention would move to someone else.
Seeing the distress of her charge, Mrs. Annesley smiled encouragingly at her and then handed her the periodical she was perusing for distraction.
"Of course, my dear," Miss Bingley said, highly affected, "but you must tell me if there is anything I can have done for you." With that, she returned to her bench seat. After throwing her sister a meaningful look, Miss Bingley
simpered, "Mr. Darcy, have you any requests?" She wiggled her finger impatiently over the keys. "Your every wish is my command."
"I have no preference, Miss Bingley. Play whatever you wish," Darcy said flatly, not even looking up from his book.
Elizabeth exchanged a humoured look with Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley. She
was pleased to see Georgiana return a small smile. She wanted to do more for the young girl, but did not dare with Miss Bingley present. The last thing she wanted to do was draw attention to herself and upset her hostess. If not for her own comfort, she reasoned Miss Bingley's good opinion could only help
further Jane's relationship with Bingley.
Despite the lack of interest in her playing from the others in the room, Miss Bingley began playing a simple tune. When she completed the first song, the others applauded politely and then returned to their original preoccupations.
Becoming distressed over the lack of enthusiasm from her audience,
particularly Mr. Darcy, Miss Bingley went about selecting a second piece. "I suppose you do not sing either, Miss Eliza," Miss Bingley said derisively.
By this time, Elizabeth had become engrossed in a tome of poetry and had
almost missed the question. Wary of Miss Bingley's sudden interest in her
musical abilities, she replied unaffectedly, "I can carry a tune if that is your meaning, Miss Bingley. Though I would hardly consider myself accomplished
in the art." Her eyes returned to the page in front of her.
Hearing the exchange, Darcy looked up from his book. "You played and sang well enough at the Lucases'. You have a very pleasing voice." His notion was seconded by Georgiana, who then sank into the sofa, surprised by her own
bravado.
Certain that Miss Bingley's interest was not kindly meant, Elizabeth glared at Darcy. She had been successful at deflecting all attention from herself thus far, and Darcy was threatening to undo it all. She had only another twenty minutes before she could politely excuse herself and pass the rest of the evening in Jane's room. "Perhaps," she said dismissively, "but I dare not compare my voice to one who has had the benefit of the masters." She made a barely perceptible nod towards Miss Bingley.
At Elizabeth's deference, Miss Bingley smiled triumphantly and went in for the kill. Mustering all the sincerity she could, she said, "Miss Eliza, please do us the honour of hearing your very pleasing voice."
Elizabeth declined once again, but her hostess was not to be gainsaid.
Therefore, grudgingly, she obliged. As soon as Elizabeth was seated on the
bench, Miss Bingley said feigning embarrassment, "Oh dear, forgive me Miss Eliza. Allow me to select a song that is not in Italian."
Elizabeth suppressed the urge to roll her eyes at the attempted insult. Despite her earlier resolve not to bait Miss Bingley, she could not restrain the impulse to point out the ridiculous. "Of course, Miss Bingley," she said. "I was not aware you did not know Italian. More is the pity. It is such an artful language."
Miss Bingley nearly choked on her indignation at the supposition and returned a pinched smile. Without another word, she began playing the aria. Elizabeth scanned the words of the unfamiliar song as Miss Bingley played the
introduction. She was momentarily embarrassed, when she realized it was a
love song. Miss Bingley had obviously intended to sing it herself, and
Elizabeth had no doubt of the intended recipient. Feeling a bit awkward over the situation, she kept her eyes glued to the pages, refusing to look at anyone.
Miss Bingley quietly fumed as she played. Not only had Darcy not remarked
on her playing ability, but he had called Elizabeth's voice 宋er
y pleasing'. He had never said as much about her singing. She looked up at that room, hoping to see the same disinterest she witnessed during her first song.
The flame of her ire was fanned when she noticed Darcy had put down his
book and was listening intently to Elizabeth singing. This in and of itself was a blow to her fragile ego. The final indignity was dealt when she realized the others were imitating Darcy, including Louisa! Realizing she needed to end the disaster as soon as possible, she hastened the tempo of the song, often playing ahead of Elizabeth and fumbling through some of the more difficult areas.
At the song's conclusion, everyone clapped as if they had not noticed the player and singer were often out of synch. Miss Bingley's actions, however, were not lost on Elizabeth. Therefore, as soon as the song ended, she decided it was best to leave. She nodded once in acknowledgement of the applause and then
excused herself, claiming the need to look in on Jane.
As soon as Elizabeth was out of the room, Miss Bingley let out her frustration.
"What an unfortunate situation for Miss Eliza. Do you not agree, sister?"
Mrs. Hurst agreed with her sister, as she always did. "A spinster in the making, no doubt."
Despite his best efforts, Darcy could not ignore the sister's conversation. Both Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst were speaking louder than usual. He was certain it was yet another attempt to gain his attention. Insufferable woman! Does she really believe such comments will recommend her to me? He did his best to appear engrossed in his book, but kept one eye on Georgiana, in case the talk distressed her too much.
Miss Bingley proclaimed, "It was terribly rude of her to arrive so late for dinner. If she was so concerned for her sister, she should have requested a tray be sent up."
Acting gravely offended, Mrs. Hurst added, "And her manners are nothing but a mixture of pride and impertinence! She has no conversation, no style, and no beauty."
"In short, she has nothing to recommend her, but being an excellent walker."
Miss Bingley tittered behind her hand. "I shall never forget her appearance this morning. Why she really looked almost wild!"
"I can only imagine! I must commend you, Caroline. I am certain I would not have been able to keep my countenance."
A glance at Georgiana told Darcy he it was time to intervene. His sister was the verge of tears and was studying the carpet, unsure of what else to do. "I thought Miss Elizabeth looked remarkably well when she arrived this morning. And,
the affection shown for her sister is very pleasing." he said casually. Without waiting for a response, he returned his attention to his book. Casting a quick glance at Georgiana, he was relieved to see a small smile.
Thankfully, the others in the room said nothing in return, and it was not long before a table was brought out for Cassino.
The following morning, Elizabeth was pleased to see Jane's condition had
improved and she was sleeping soundly. Elizabeth had spent the night in a
chair next to her sister's bed and had been awakened several times by Jane's restlessness. Thus, as the morning sun filtered into the room, Elizabeth was far from rested.
As tempting as it was to request a tray be sent up for her, she did not want to alarm her hosts, so instead dressed for breakfast below stairs. She hoped last night's exchange was forgotten; but even if it had not, she could brave
Bingley's sisters.
She changed her gown and splashed some cool water on her face. The
temperature of the water worked to invigorate her, and she felt the sleep fall from her face. When she caught her reflection in the looking glass, however, she could only shake her head. Her eyes were red and there were dark circles
under them. It would have taken an entire jar of powder to hide the signs of fatigue. With no other option, she pinched her cheeks to bring a little colour to her face, and with a sigh, she made her way downstairs. She would enjoy
breakfast, and as soon as politeness allowed, she would return to Jane, and then perhaps even get a little sleep herself.
After helping herself to a cup of coffee, a muffin, and some eggs from the side bar, she made herself comfortable at the table. She inhaled deeply, savouring the dark aroma of the coffee before taking a sip. A moment later, she was
startled by a deep voice behind her. "Good morning, Li'l Beth," Darcy greeted.
Recovered, she turned and smiled. "Good morning, Fizzy."
"Might I inquire after your sister?"
"She is doing better. Thank you. Her fever broke early this morning. I believe if she spends the remainder of the day resting, and I can get her to eat, she may be well enough to come down for a short visit this evening." She took a bite of her muffin that was now covered with apple butter.
"I am pleased to hear it." There was a long silence before in a hushed tone Darcy said hesitantly, "Li'l Beth, Georgiana would like to speak with you privately. When your sister can spare you for a bit, would you speak with her?"
Elizabeth's brow rumpled in concern. "Of course. Is anything wrong?"
"I am sure all will be well after she speaks with you," Darcy said cryptically.
Elizabeth was prevented from asking any further questions with the entrance of Bingley, Georgiana, and Mrs. Annesley.
"Good morning, Miss Elizabeth, Darcy." Bingley said with his usually sunny demeanour. "May I inquire after Miss Bennet?"
"Good morning," Elizabeth replied, nodding to Bingley, Georgiana and Mrs.
Annesley. "I was just telling Mr. Darcy that Jane had a restless night, but her fever broke in the very early hours this morning. She may be able to make an appearance, perhaps this evening."
Bingley beamed at the news. "That is wonderful news! I am so pleased!"
Miss Bingley and Mr. and Mrs. Hurst then entered the breakfast room.
Elizabeth was surprised at the heartfelt delight expressed by the newcomers when Bingley informed them of her sister's improvement. After felicitations were extended, an awkward silence then fell on the group.
"Mr. Bingley," Elizabeth inquired, breaking the silence, "this apple butter, is it a gift from Mr. Darcy?"
"It is," Darcy responded for Bingley with a surprised smile. "I brought a case for Bingley. How could you tell?"
Feeling a need to break up the conversation between Elizabeth and Darcy, Miss Bingley interjected, "Mr. Darcy is always so kind to us. He is always bringing us gifts."
Elizabeth dabbed her lips with her napkin to hide a smirk and then replied,
"There is nothing quite like apple butter from Pemberley."
"No. I suppose not. 禅is why I brought it." Darcy did his best to maintain an even keel, but Elizabeth's amusement was making it difficult.
"I love it as well. I can not believe you remember it though," Miss Darcy interjected quietly. Elizabeth was again amazed at the effort it took Georgiana to speak in front of the Bingleys and Hursts. She could not help but wonder if the conversation Darcy had asked her to have with Georgiana pertained to
them.
Trying to put the young girl at ease, she tried to send Georgiana an encouraging smile, but the girl's eyes were glued to her plate. Unsuccessful at her attempt, she said, "How could I not? It has that unique hint of spice that I could never figure out what it was."
"Miss Eliza, you have visited Pemberley?" Miss Bingley asked impertinently.
Taking another bite of her muffin, Elizabeth savoured the taste of the apple butter for a moment before answering. Too late, she realized she had once
again enraged Miss Bingley and struggled for a way to diffuse the situation.
She came up empty. "I have. I used to visit every summer."
Bingley looked to Darcy in surprise. Then with a mischievous grin said, "I have only known Darcy here since our Cambridge days. Tell me, Miss
Elizabeth, was he always so serious?"
Bingley! Darcy thought while praying Elizabeth did not reveal any new stories about him. If I was not a guest in your hom
e, I would have a good mind to belt you.
"Charles, really!" Miss Bingley admonished, clearly not enjoying the direction of the conversation.
Elizabeth laughed and a wicked glint entered her eye. "I dare not regale stories of his younger days while we reside under the same roof. I am liable to find a snake or frog in my bed if I do."
"Brother! You did not!" Georgiana was astonished. First stealing bonnets, and now snakes and frogs! When everyone turned to her though, she blushed at her outburst and ducked her head.
Darcy blushed and protested vehemently. "No! I never!" He shot Elizabeth a dark glare. Just you wait, Li'l Beth! There will be payback.
Bingley, Georgiana, Elizabeth, and even Mrs. Annesley broke out in laughter.
The laughter was so infectious that Darcy soon joined in, and even Mr. and
Mrs. Hurst were seen to stifle a chuckle. As the laughter dwindled, Elizabeth admitted the guilt was hers, exonerating Darcy of the charges. However, she could not help explaining Darcy's transgressions that had warranted such
retaliation. "Unfortunately, the upstairs maid that changed the bedding had
been terribly frightened and I was restricted to my room for the remainder of the day." Another round of laughter filled the room.
Through his laughter, Darcy added, "I recall being given a stern scolding when Father learned what prompted Miss Bennet's actions."
Laughter erupted again until Miss Bingley chided loudly, "Charles, really! Just because we are in the country does not mean one should toss aside decorum."
She glared daggers at Elizabeth.
The table immediately quieted. Elizabeth looked askance first at Bingley and then at Darcy. The two rolled their eyes and turned their attention to their plates. Elizabeth took her cue and finished quickly before excusing herself.
The breakfast room turned as silent as a church, each person focusing on their breakfast or the newspaper. Bingley excused himself shortly thereafter,
claiming some business that needed his attention.
When Bingley left the room, Miss Bingley said airily, "I do hope Miss Bennet recovers quickly. She is such a sweet girl to be feeling so ill." Not receiving a reaction from Darcy, she added, "It will be so nice to have one's house back oneself, do you not agree Louisa?" Mrs. Hurst seconded Miss Bingley's notion with a polite nod.