Miss Bingley advanced with a smile, though a slight tension about her mouth did not entirely accord with the warmth of her tone. “I am so happy to be returned to our dear friends.”
Elizabeth glanced at Georgiana, smiling as she gave a small encouraging nod.
Georgiana straightened at once. “Pray be seated.”
Mr. Bingley went directly to Jane and took a seat beside her; they were soon engaged in quiet conversation.
The rest of the party arranged themselves.
Lady Catherine lifted her cane from beside her chair and held it upright, her hand resting firmly upon its head.
Elizabeth turned aside, just managing to suppress a smile.
Darcy entered shortly thereafter and paused upon observing the company.
Elizabeth suspected he had already informed of the new arrivals.
After only a moment’s hesitation, he crossed the room and took a seat beside Elizabeth.
Miss Bingley’s smile faltered, her gaze flicking toward the empty chair beside her. “Good morning, Mr. Darcy. We are so very happy to see you again.”
Darcy inclined his head. “I hope your journey was not too fatiguing.”
Miss Bingley waved a hand lightly. “Travel is seldom pleasant, though it is well worth any inconvenience when it restores us to our friends.”
Elizabeth turned toward Georgiana and smiled at her for a moment.
Georgiana rose at once. “I shall have tea brought in.” She pulled the bell cord.
A brief silence settled over the room.
Georgiana glanced toward Elizabeth, her hands twisting slightly.
Elizabeth met her look with a steady, encouraging smile. “I am much looking forward to the theatre this evening. Which play are we to see?”
Darcy returned her smile. “As You Like It.”
Elizabeth inclined her head. “I do prefer the comedies.”
Miss Bingley drew herself up slightly. “Comedies are well enough, but I think the more serious plays are to be preferred.”
Darcy gave a small shrug. “As You Like Ithas long been a particular favorite of mine.”
Miss Bingley inclined her head quickly. “Indeed, it is one of my favorites as well.”
Mrs. Bennet shifted in her chair and cast Miss Bingley a look of mild displeasure before settling back again.
Anne suppressed a laugh, which she hastily disguised as a small cough.
The maid entered with the tea tray.
Georgiana began to pour, while Elizabeth and Mary assisted in handing cups to the guests.
Lady Catherine did not take her tea. Her attention remained fixed upon Miss Bingley.
“Miss Bingley, pray inform me, how old are you?”
Miss Bingley started slightly and glanced about her. “I am two and twenty."
