“Is Jane feeling any better?” eagerly asks Bingley who has overslept from staying up the last three night contemplating Jane’s arrival but having been disappointed with her sudden illness.
“Unfortunately, I think she may have something a little more severe than a cold. It sounded like a fog-horn in the room all night.” replies Liz looking up from her mystery book on the New York Times best seller list.
“I’m going to bring her some chicken soup that I warmed up in the microwave which I found in the cabinet” states Bingley “Would you make it sure it is all right with Jane if I come in?”
“Sure, I’ll be right back” smiles Liz heading back towards their room relieved to be taking a break and an opportunity to stretch.
“Jane, are you awake?” asks Liz tapping her on the shoulder as Jane moans in response and attempts to focus her sleep heavy eyes.
“Bingley would like to come in and bring you some soup that he made” informs Liz not sure that this is one of Jane’s best moments.
With swollen eyes and tangled hair, Jane smiles and coughs a few times. “That would be lovely. Tell him to come on in.”
“Here, let me at least comb your hair. I’ll get you a warm wash cloth too for your face” offers Liz not wanting Jane to look as bad as she does at the moment due to being lost in the delirium of illness. “You’ve been sleeping quite hard”.
A few minutes later Bingley comes in with a tray of soup and crackers with some cold ginger ale. To the side is a rather large box of plush tissue with aloe vera and a bag of strong medicated cough drops “I’m bringing in a bit of community care for you, Jane”.
Through the haze of over-the-counter medication, Jane smiles and giggles some. “Well, thank you” her voice screeches from being charred from coughing all night. She sneezes again and pulls out a handful of tissue from the decorated box. She sighs in delight as Bingley chats away about the days recent events.
Upon returning to the common room, Liz notices that Darcy is reading one of the many books that she brought with her on the trip.
“I’ve read this one before. It’s quite good. The characters are well-developed and it has a good plot line. Have you read it yet?” asks Darcy.
“No, I just started reading it a couple of days ago but I like it so far” offers Liz pleased that he would even bother to be interested in something that she is reading.
“I don’t have much of a chance to read, but I do like picking up a book now and then” replies Darcy admiring Liz for the moment as the window light enters the room.
“What are some of your favorite books or authors?” asks Liz enjoying the conversation.
As Darcy shares his opinions about different writers, books and articles he has read, Liz appreciates the sound of his voice and the knowledge which he shares. He is more informed about world politics as well as social and cultural events than she ever expected. They chat for a few hours as time passes without either of them noticing.
As the conversation continues they share stories of their childhood and young adult life. There is mutual understanding and laughter as they share similar experiences of interactions with friends and situations.
Darcy feels comfortable with Liz to share about the death of his father as a young man and what an impact it has made on his life. He describes some of his responsibilities with his father’s company and the direction that he would like to lead them in their new investments and projects in the upcoming months.
Feeling secure in Liz’s acceptance, Darcy explains more about his family responsibilities “My younger sister, Georgiana, is one of the sweetest girls I know. Some of her closest friends call her “Ginny”. I’m very proud of her. She will grow into a lovely young woman one day. I have high hopes for her successful future and happiness.”
Just before dinner as if on cue, Caroline enters the cottage wearing a black and teal stripped bikini with a matching sarong, “How is everyone? Are you ready for some fun? It must be so boring for you to be cooped up in here all day with nothing to really entertain you” with a smug look over to Liz whose casual pony tail has uncontrollable wisps of hair falling to each side.
“Actually Liz and I had a wonderful afternoon together. What did you do?” asks Darcy aware that Caroline seems to be out-of-sorts.
“I’ve been lying out at the pool. It’s a beautiful day and didn’t want to waste this last perfect weekend before summer ends. I prefer a ‘natural’ tan rather than using a tanning booth or a spray-on tan which doesn’t look quite ‘natural’” adding special emphasis to the word and looking at Darcy directly to make sure that he noticed “Liz, I didn’t see you this morning or I would have asked you along. A tan always enhances a body in shape and toned” clasping her sandals in one hand and standing with her hand on her hip with the other. Caroline turns with a crisp heel for a better angle to be entirely viewed “You should have come with me as well, Darcy.”
In comparison Liz looks down at her less-than-fit body in her jeans and t-shirt and wonders if there is any hope for a change. She shrugs her shoulders and leans back against the sofa taking another sip of her lemonade picking up her favorite book again to intentionally ignore Caroline’s antics.
Noticing that Liz looks a bit uncomfortable with Caroline’s comment Darcy adds “Staying by the pool wasn’t exactly what I had in mind for the weekend. However, I’ve had a fascinating conversation with Liz most of the afternoon.”
“I don’t know why you wanted to stay in this stuffy old place. You would have liked it much better with me, I’m sure” coyly insists Caroline moving towards Darcy to stand directly in front of him blocking his view of Liz sitting on the couch trying not to be a part of the conversation.
“I was telling Liz about Georgiana. She would have liked to be at the pool. She enjoys swimming and diving. She was a lifeguard at camp for several years and also now works at the Kroc Center pool” explains Darcy so that Liz can know a little more about his sister.
“Yes, Ginny can practically do anything that she puts her mind to” returns Caroline “She plays just about any instrument you can think of, dances, sings like a nightingale, and quite well informed about the world and politics. I think she made straight A’s through high school and was an Albright scholar. She knows something about everything. She’s one of the smartest women I know. Of course, she is beautiful too!”
“Sounds pretty amazing, I would like to meet her some day” honestly replies Liz.
“All girls of her class are quite successful in whatever field they choose to go into. We go to schools with educational traditions that span several generations. We are given opportunities to explore and connect in a variety of settings that are available and easily accessible. There is no way one could not be exceptional under these circumstances” explains Caroline “But Ginny exceeds the accomplishments of nearly all the girls in her circle.”
“I’ve found that there are very few that have been able to match Ginny’s capabilities” proudly replies Darcy of his sister’s accomplishments.
“Seems like it would be difficult to be able to be skilled at so many things” replies Liz feeling as if the air of superiority has infiltrated the room.
“You haven’t met Ginny yet” replies Caroline with a slight hint of jealousy.
“It is typical of young women in her class to be given a plethora of experiences to develop into leaders of the community” explains Caroline trying to inform Liz about expectations of women in the environment in which he is accustomed to. “They know several languages, musical, dance, and many other social graces are taught at the schools as well.”
“I can only think of perhaps half a dozen women whom I find to be completely accomplished” states Darcy admiring his sister’s perseverance and success.
“It’s really amazing that all those talents could be found in a single person. I surprised you have even found one” replies Liz.
“Do you really think that there are no women who can do many things well?” asks Darcy.
“I think that each woman has her own gifts and talents which suit her personality and interests. I think it is rather harsh to expect someone to do everything well. Life needs variety. Strengths and also weaknesses bring out color and dimension in life. Humor is often found in the less than perfect things. What would life become without laughter?” asks Liz trying to prove a point.
“I think Darcy is as near to perfect as any man can be” replies Caroline sitting on the armrest and wrapping her arm around his shoulder as Darcy sets on the sofa.
“I wouldn’t say that. I have my own faults. For one, I tend to be fixed in my opinions about other people. I am often able to read through motives of others. I see the manipulation and vindictiveness of others and hold grudges far too long. Once I’ve lost a good opinion of someone, it is lost forever.”
“I suppose that is a fault. However, being able to have discernment isn’t something that I would laugh at, I rather admire it” but then Liz unfortunately continues “But to willfully judge someone before you have a chance to get to know them, well that is a true fault.”
“I suppose, but for you to choose to intentionally misunderstand them is a fault too” honestly smirks Darcy with a little more intensity than he expected.
A joyful whistle enters the hallway, “I think Jane is feeling a little better. She’s resting now though” explains Bingley pleased that he was able to spend the afternoon with Jane even if she was a bit groggy and spacey from taking too much Nyquil at Bingley’s insistence compassionately hoping that it would make her heal more quickly. “How is everyone?”
“Is anyone hungry? I’m thinking a BBQ sounds like a good idea tonight” suggests Darcy “I brought some steaks, bratwurst and ribs for the weekend.”
“Sounds great! I’m starving!” replies Bingley as his stomach grumbles realizing that he didn’t have any breakfast from oversleeping and then skipping lunch to be with Jane for the afternoon “I’ll help you Darcy. I think the charcoal and lighting fluid is still on the patio”.
In the silence of the room, Caroline and Liz are left on their own searching for something to say to each other. Liz struggles to find something that they have in common to talk about and disturbingly comes up with nothing.
On the other hand, Caroline thinks of a long list of topics in which to make Liz feel uneasy but decides that unfortunately Darcy always seems to rescue her and take Liz’s side. She thoughtfully reconsiders her tactics.
“I don’t know if you know but Darcy’s sister is the most wonderful young woman that I’ve ever met. Darcy has done an excellent job of raising her. Their father was promoted to glory when he was 22 and his sister was 14. Darcy took over custody and responsibility of raising her. His mother was taken in a car accident when they were 2 and 10. Afterwards his father devoted himself to the company and didn’t remarry so Darcy spent a lot of time with his sister. If Darcy ever chooses to marry, she would definitely have to get along very well with his sister and be her friend. Georgiana is so sweet. She does so many things well. She speaks three languages, a musician, a scholar, and of course, stunningly beautiful” explains Caroline clarifying “We are quite good friends. I don’t think there could be two friends as close as we are. She trusts my opinion.”
“From what Darcy told me earlier today, your esteemed opinion of her seems quite accurate” confirms Liz and then truthfully adding to Caroline’s agitation “Darcy invited me to meet her one day, hopefully that will work out and happen”.
In contrast to Caroline’s confidence, Liz doesn’t not know how to manage the feelings that she is experiencing at the moment in regards to Darcy. It was one of the best afternoons that she has spent talking to someone in her lifetime. It wasn’t necessarily what was said but in which how much ease and mutual respect with admiration was evident throughout the conversation. Darcy appeared to be just as relaxed and content sharing stories of his life and dreams for his future. To her astonishment, Liz doesn’t like the idea of Caroline having an advantage of a family connection with Darcy’s sister. But it seems unlikely from what Darcy told her about Georgiana’s character and nature that she would choose Caroline to be her closest friend.
Later that evening relaxing in front of the chimenea under the stars, everyone is enjoying the delicious seasoned dinner.
“I think that I might have given Jane a little too much cough syrup. She’s been sleeping for hours” sulks Bingley “I can still hear her sleeping in the hallway when I went inside for more sodas”.
Liz knows the song and sound effects of Jane’s slumber quite well. Jane is creating a rather loud peculiar melody today. “Perhaps she will be better tomorrow and join us”.
To everyone’s delight, Darcy brings out graham crackers, chocolate candy bars, and fixes a few marshmallows on the metal sticks to cook in the outdoor fireplace for s’mores.
As they observe the cosmos, Darcy names some of the constellations and shares some interesting stories of Greek mythology surrounding the compilation of the various stars.
Although not knowing a whole lot about the stars Liz appreciates Darcy’s animation and intensity in which he shares the stories that impressed him. He is entertaining to listen to and Liz finds herself again being unintentionally attracted to him but liking the idea as well.
In the firelight, Darcy looks up and genuinely appreciates Liz’s interest in his legendary tales of love and loss.
Aware that Darcy sitting in the lawn chair next to her and that he seems to be focusing on Liz who appears to be returning his centered interest, Caroline gushes while casually touching his leg “You are such a good story-teller, Darcy! No wonder everyone listens to you. You’re so charming! I wonder how many other stories you know.”
“Thanks Caroline. Do you have a favorite myth, Liz?” asks Darcy wanting to include her in the conversation.
Liz blushes and debates whether to be truthful or not but decides honesty is always a good thing “I like Cupid and Psyche, as well as Pygmalion and Galatia, and Pyramus and Thisbe which some say Shakespeare use to base the story of “Romeo and Juliet”. They are love stories but the ones that I like the most”.
“George Bernard Shaw wrote a play “Pygmalion” which later it was turned into a musical “My Fair Lady” with Audrey Hepburn” explains Darcy.
“I like her in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” too” replies Liz “I particularly like her version of “Moon River”. Did you know she learned to play the guitar for the movie just to play that song?” offers Liz excited that Darcy would know as much about one of her favorite musicals.
“I didn’t know that” smiles Darcy back at her “I like musicals and plays.”
“So do I!” enthusiastically states Liz pleased that there is yet another thing they share in common.
“Well, one day when I’m in town again we’ll have to go see something together” offers Darcy hoping that it will not be in the far distant future.
“That would be great!” confirms Liz content with the idea of spending more time with Darcy in another setting.
“Well, I’ll have to go along too. I enjoy a good play or an elaborate stage production even if the songs are a bit out of date” states Caroline plotting her own invitation “Perhaps we could go out for dinner. I know that Liz has to get back to town soon, but we see each other more often and it could easily be arranged.”
Darcy looks at Caroline for a moment not exactly sure of what to say since the invitation was not directed at her. “We’ll have to see what’s playing and then make arrangements when I have the time available.”
“Well, I think that I better call it a night. See you in the morning!” smiles Liz very pleased with the unexpected potential opportunity of spending more time with Darcy doing something that they both enjoy together.
Early the next morning the doorbell rings and echoes throughout the cottage. “I wonder who could be visiting us right now? I wasn’t expecting anyone, were you?” asks Bingley.
Getting up from lounging on the couch, Caroline shuffles to answer the door “Please come in.”
Liz is puzzled to find her mother and younger sisters standing in the doorway. “What are you doing here?”
“I came as quickly as I could! Where is Jane? We need to get to the hospital right away!” deflects Mrs. Bennett not answering Liz’s question.
Bingley is shocked and heads towards Jane’s room to see if something has happened in the last ten minutes since he last checked on her when he brought a cup of hot chai tea and more throat lozenges but decided to leave the extra cough medicine in the cabinet this time.
“Mom, Jane is all right. She is sleeping in the other room. Why are you here?” asks Liz with Darcy standing at her side as Caroline escapes into the kitchen.
“Liz, why are you acting like nothing is wrong? Darcy should have taken you back before this morning but obviously he hasn’t been thinking of anyone but himself. Fortunately, Caroline Bingley called me last night and said that Jane was deathly ill and needed to see a doctor right away. She also said that your car had broken down and you had no way to come back to see Dr. Millway” rattled Mrs. Bennett continues “We got up at 4 am this morning to make sure that we could be back today before his office closes. You need to pack so we can leave! Out of my way Darcy! Even if you do not care about my daughter’s health, I do!”
Darcy starts to say something but changes his mind and chooses not to as Mrs. Bennett pushes him out of the way shuffling into Jane’s room.
“Oh look! There is the kindest man I know! Bingley is at Jane’s side as any good man would be!” shrieks Mrs. Bennett loudly so the entire house can hear.
Liz crumbles embarrassed by her mother’s misplaced rudeness to Darcy. He stands in silence next to her.
Caroline enters the room and places an arm around Mrs. Bennett’s shoulders “Knowing that you would be leaving this morning, I helped Jane put her things away in her suitcase so she would be able to leave right away and get to the doctor.”
To her dismay, Liz looks down at her small suitcase which she never bothered to unpack believing that it would be impossible to enjoy this weekend as much as she has and feels quite disappointed and humiliated at her mother’s overly dramatic display of concern at Darcy’s expense.
“I’ll help you load the suitcases in the car” flatly states Darcy and deliberately ignoring catching any view of Liz. He immediately picks up the luggage and heads outside more formal than Liz has ever seen him.
Liz follows him outside hoping to have a second to apologize for her mother’s behavior. “I’m so sorry . . .”
“It doesn’t matter. Your mother is right. Jane needs to get to the doctor. Have a safe trip home” frankly replies Darcy carefully avoiding any eye contact with Liz.
He turns quickly and heads back into the house. Liz follows him again to discover that he has disappeared somewhere. She walks into Jane’s room and finds that Jane already has her coat on and ready to walk out the door. Bingley places his arm around her to help her to the car. It is obvious that he is in pain that Jane is leaving so soon.
“Where did Darcy go?” asks Jane waking up from her medicated fog.
“He already left out the back door. I heard him start up his car. He said something about needing to go to the grocery store. I think that he is planning a special dinner for us tonight as well as a surprise this evening” suggests Caroline with a note of superiority.
“Thank you for the lovely weekend. Hopefully we will be seeing you again sometime soon” states Liz very disappointed that she wasn’t able to say goodbye to Darcy but even more disheartened that he didn’t’ bother to stay long enough to say goodbye to her either.
“Come on Liz! Jane needs to get to the doctor! Bingley - you and Caroline are welcome at our home any time” and then rebounding Mrs. Bennett adds under her breath but loud enough for everyone to hear “preferably when Darcy is not in town.”
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