Something More Substantial by Jann Rowland

Author:Jann Rowland
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Publisher: One Good Sonnet Publishing
Published: 2023-01-29T13:00:00+00:00

Once again Elizabeth found herself confused and unable to account for it. As Mr. Darcy entered the room, leading two companions, Elizabeth wondered at the gentleman appearing in Lambton the same day she had met him again at his estate, and the eyes of her family on her rendered Elizabeth embarrassed at their scrutiny. But did it not speak of the man’s regard for her? Did she not have more reason for hope with this latest bit of ardency?

In such cases as these, where Elizabeth found herself off balance and confused, her usual inclination for courage often made itself known, and this was no exception. To allow herself time to restore her equilibrium, Elizabeth turned her attention to Mr. Darcy’s companions. The young woman was perhaps Kitty’s age, was tall and womanly, her face clear and fair, her hair a honey blonde. By contrast, the gentleman appeared jovial, his dark red locks a contrast to his companions, his height, while not inconsiderable, less than that Mr. Darcy boasted. Clearly, these were Miss Georgiana Darcy and Mr. Bingley, of whom Elizabeth had heard so much.

“Miss Bennet,” said Darcy as Elizabeth rose, bowing over her hand and fixing her with an earnest smile. “Mr. Gardiner, Mrs. Gardiner, Miss Catherine,” added he, though no one misunderstood his initial greeting for Elizabeth. “I hope we are not intruding.”

“Not at all, Mr. Darcy,” said Mr. Gardiner, his good humor setting the gentleman at ease. “You made your interest in introducing your sister to our niece clear, but while we might have expected more of a delay in your civility, you are not unwelcome.”

Mr. Darcy grinned at Mr. Gardiner’s quip, clearly understanding the other man but not at all offended. “When Georgiana and I spoke of your coming today, we resolved to visit, for she is eager to make your acquaintance.” Mr. Darcy turned a grin on Kitty and added: “And perhaps she is more particularly eager to make your acquaintance, Miss Catherine, being of an age with you.”

The shy smile with which Kitty regarded him spoke to her eagerness. But she was not the one to speak up.

“Here now, Darcy,” said the man who had followed him into the room. “I hope you will not forget my eagerness to forge an acquaintance with these people.”

The company laughed, the last of the tension departing the room. “Who could forget you, Bingley? You will not remain silent long enough for anyone to do so.”

The man took no offense, as his laughter proved. Mr. Darcy glanced at Elizabeth, and when she nodded, he beckoned his friends forward, attending to the necessary introductions. This complete, the company sat down to visit.

Within moments of making her acquaintance, Elizabeth gained an impression of Miss Darcy that was not unlike Mr. Darcy’s comments about his sister. In short, the girl was shy, speaking softly when she opened her mouth at all, her comments diffident, as if she could not be certain of remaining unscathed after uttering them. Mr. Bingley was gregarious and happy, immediately striking up a conversation with Mr.

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