Page 40
Story: A New Beginning
"Cousin Elizabeth, I trust your mother and sisters have found suitable accommodations.
In less than two months, I shall assume control of my estate.
I have, after all, been most generous in allowing them to remain there during their period of mourning for your illustrious father," said Mr. Collins, his tone thick with affected sympathy.
"Do not concern yourself, Mr. Collins," Elizabeth replied calmly.
"My uncle is purchasing a house in Meryton, and by the end of next month, my mother and sisters will be moving there.
" "And you, Cousin Elizabeth—where shall you live?
" he asked, barely concealing his disdain.
"I plan to live with Jane." "Will you be working for the same family?
" "No. I shall reside with my sister and her husband on their estate in Somerset," Elizabeth said with a triumphant smile.
"Jane is married." Mr. Collins's eyes widened in disbelief.
He had many questions—far too many. How had such an event occurred without his knowledge?
Why had he not received a letter? "My dear," Charlotte interjected quickly, "Lady Catherine does not appreciate being kept waiting.
" "You are quite right, my dear wife. I must go at once—Lady Catherine expects to review my Sunday sermon.
" Mr. Collins downed the last of his tea and stood, not without casting a final, curious glance at Elizabeth.
He intended to question her thoroughly later, after satisfying the demands of his beloved patroness.
"I am sorry, Eliza, if my husband upset you with his bold comments," said Charlotte gently once he was gone.
"Do not worry, dear friend. I am quite used to your husband's…
remarks." "Eliza, I would prefer if you did not tell Mr. Collins that Jane's husband is a Baron.
I shall explain it to him when you return to London.
" "Of course," Elizabeth agreed. "But is there any particular reason?
" "If he learns he is related to a Baron, he will notify Lady Catherine immediately—and you know how she can be…
" "Overbearing? Prying?" Elizabeth smiled knowingly.
"Do not worry. Georgiana has already warned me what her aunt is like.
Charlotte, if you do not need me, I would like to go for a walk before I meet Georgiana at Rosings.
" "Of course. I know how much you enjoy walking.
The countryside around Rosings is beautiful, and the day is fine.
" Elizabeth finished her breakfast and bid farewell to her friend.
She took her favorite path, winding through the woods and climbing a small hill that offered a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
The air was fresh, the sky clear—but her peaceful solitude was soon interrupted by the sight of Mr. Darcy walking toward her.
'What does this man want now?'She wondered with irritation.
Mr. Darcy, for his part, had gone out in search of Elizabeth.
In the past few days, they had had little opportunity to speak.
He had noticed how her spirits had lifted—how often she smiled, and how her eyes shone when she did.
"Good morning, Miss Bennet. I hope you are enjoying the views Rosings has to offer," he said as he approached.
"Good morning, Mr. Darcy. Indeed, the woods are beautiful.
One can fully appreciate spring and all its colours here," Elizabeth replied politely, intending to curtsy and walk on.
But Mr. Darcy had other plans. "Spring is just as beautiful—perhaps more so—at Pemberley.
Very soon, you shall be able to see it for yourself.
" Elizabeth paused, her expression stiffening.
Clearly, Georgiana had not spoken to her brother yet.
Although she felt the urge to clarify matters, she chose to wait.
Perhaps Georgiana had her reasons for discretion, especially with such an intrusive aunt as Lady Catherine.
"If you will excuse me, sir, I plan to walk in that direction for about an hour before meeting Georgiana in the garden," she said.
"If you do not mind, I would be pleased to accompany you.
Normally, I would ride in the morning, but I still feel the effects of my foolish accident.
For now, I prefer walking." He offered his arm, and though Elizabeth wished to decline, she found she had no option but to accept.
Though he had asked, it was evident he expected she would not refuse—and he did not wait for her consent before stepping beside her.
As they walked, Mr. Darcy occasionally commented on the landscape and the history of Rosings.
Elizabeth asked a few polite questions, but his answers were brief.
It became clear he was not inclined to engage in conversation.
She could not understand why he insisted on walking with her if he intended to say so little.
Eventually, she stopped trying and allowed herself to enjoy the scenery in silence.
Mr. Darcy was content. To him, their quiet companionship signified a more profound connection—that words were unnecessary between them.
Over the last few days, he had turned many thoughts over in his mind.
Sometimes, he felt lighthearted, imagining the summer ahead—returning to Pemberley with Georgiana and Elizabeth, exploring the wonders of the Peak District, sharing quiet walks and laughter. He longed for it all.
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