She next asked Miss Darcy about her studies and which subjects she enjoyed. Miss Darcy told her about her love of science, and Elizabeth expressed her own fascination with science as well. They got up to head back, but continued to discuss the advancements being made in the field of science. Mr. Darcy spoke of some lectures he had attended and his own observations on the topic. They kept with this discussion all the way back to the border fence.
“Miss Elizabeth, I am so glad we met you this morning,” Miss Darcy said, smiling.
“So am I. It was a delightful surprise,” Elizabeth said, returning her smile. “I wish you both a good day.”
“Good day to you,” Miss Darcy replied.
Elizabeth turned to the stile, preparing to step up when she was brought up short at the sight of Mr. Darcy standing next to it.
He met her gaze. “Please allow me.”
Elizabeth was so startled she just stood there blinking up at him for a few seconds. Then, his words registered, and she looked down to find his hand waiting patiently for hers.
“Oh!” she said with sudden comprehension and placed her hand in his. “Thank you.”
Blushing with embarrassment, she met his gaze again for a quick moment and smiled politely. She then stepped up the stile with his assistance and crossed over the fence. He did not let go of her hand until she had safely reached the ground on the other side, and then only after she nodded to assure him she was steady. Elizabeth thanked him again, waved goodbye to MissDarcy, and started home. Her cheeks hot with color, she was eager to flee the scene.
Chapter 5
Soon after arriving at the assembly rooms, Elizabeth noticed Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy heading their way. She also noticed how handsome Mr. Darcy looked in his tailcoat and breeches. He filled them out well. Elizabeth tore her gaze away. As good-looking and rich as Mr. Darcy was, he was no doubt used to women ogling him. However, she refused to be one of the oglers tonight.
He and Mr. Bingley requested dances with each of them. Elizabeth was surprised Mr. Darcy planned to dance at all. He always appeared aloof and not inclined to spend time with anyone. She supposed he did put forth some effort that morning on their walk. Could she have misjudged him? Perhaps what she perceived as conceit was actually a reserved nature, like that of his sister.
Elizabeth and her sisters then went to greet Charlotte. While the four of them were conversing, Mr. William Goulding walked up to their group to greet them and introduce his nephews who were visiting. Mr. Whitney Hadley and Mr. Lindsey Hadley weretwins. They were attractive and friendly. Apparently, they had been visiting their uncle for the past week and were scheduled to leave the next day. The gentlemen quickly solicited dances from all four of them.
As Elizabeth took her position opposite Mr. Lindsey Hadley, his brother led Mary to the floor. She also saw that Charlotte was standing up with Mr. Bingley. Elizabeth knew her mother would not like the fact that Mr. Bingley had distinguished Charlotte by dancing the first set with her while Jane stood without a partner.
Mr. Lindsey Hadley proved to be an excellent dancer. He was also very amusing. She laughed a great deal. After their set, they returned to her family at the same time as his brother and Mary. Both gentlemen secured sets with Kitty to her obvious delight.
As the two brothers walked away, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy approached. Jane then introduced their mother and sisters to the gentlemen.
“We are glad you both could attend our little assembly," Mama said. "And, Mr. Bingley, I want to extend a warm welcome to you. We are so pleased to have you join the neighborhood."
“Thank you, Mrs. Bennet. Indeed, everyone has been very welcoming. I feel quite fortunate.”
Elizabeth walked with Mr. Darcy to the dance floor.
“Miss Elizabeth, you look very well this evening.”
Elizabeth looked up to meet his gaze and smiled. “Thank you, Mr. Darcy.”
Once their set began, it was immediately apparent Mr. Darcy was a skilled dancer. However, he was not a talkative one. She watched as other couples engaged in light conversation while dancing, including Jane and Mr. Bingley. She had thought to attempt some conversation herself, but decided against it. If he preferred to be silent, she would be silent as well.
At the end of their set, Elizabeth thanked him for the dance, and he expressed his enjoyment of partnering her.
“Would you care for some punch?” Mr. Darcy asked.
“Yes, I would. Thank you.”
They walked over to the refreshment table. Mr. Darcy handed Elizabeth a glass of punch, and she accepted gratefully. He filled a glass for himself and was about to take a drink when he suddenly turned his head to the left. Mr. Darcy narrowed his eyes as if he were listening to someone speaking. His posture now stiffened, he returned his gaze to the refreshment table as he drank his punch.
What just happened?Elizabeth wondered.
“Would you like more, Miss Elizabeth?” Mr. Darcy asked.
Elizabeth wanted to laugh at the question.Does he think his demeanor invites lingering at the refreshment table?!
“No, thank you,” she said politely.
