Page 48 of The Governess of My Heart
Elizabeth stared at him with anger.
“I do not need the book, sir. I would rather sacrifice the pleasure of reading than satisfy your pride,” she said sharply and hurriedly left the bookstore.
Darcy was not insulted by her words but was surprised that she treated him with so much contempt.
He did not expect her to leave, but once she did, he felt guilty and embarrassed for what had transpired between them in front of the salesgirl. He understood the girl at the shop was new to Lambton as she neither recognized him nor Elizabeth. Darcy wanted to know who Elizabeth was and contemplated leaving the book behind.
“Do you want to buy the book, sir?” the young girl asked him, bringing him back to his senses. She looked confused and worried.
“Yes, I do,” he said, buying some other books as well.
He wondered if he should stay for a few minutes and ask the shopkeeper who she was.
She doesn’t seem like an outsider. Maybe she lives in Lambton.
He thought as he left the store, a little ashamed of how he had behaved. Somehow, he had enjoyed taunting Elizabeth and understood perfectly that she did not like him even before their argument began.
Darcy was not often used to women not favoring his company, and he was somehow intrigued by the fact that she did not respect him for his status.
I am certain that she doesn’t know that I am the master of Pemberley. I wonder if she would behave the same way if she did.
He thought as his carriage sped towards his estate, and Elizabeth fumed as she walked swiftly towards Ashton Park.
Who does he think he is? Such an arrogant man. I should have insisted on calling for Mr. Albert.
Elizabeth knew he had greeted her, but she insulted him by turning away.
But what am I to do? I cannot look at his face without being haunted by my act of cowardice.
From his clothes, she knew that he was an affluent man.
I wonder who he is?
As she entered the house, the servant handed her a letter from Georgiana.
Dearest Miss Smith,
I have some exciting news to share with you. My brother returned from town a couple of days ago, and I think he wanted to surprise me. I am unable to keep up my commitment and call on you this evening. Kindly excuse me, but I will be able to come soon with my brother. I am certain that he would like to hear you play. I miss your company here and hope you can visit Pemberley someday.
Yours,
GD
Elizabeth felt mixed emotions when she finished the letter.
I wonder how her brother is?
Though she had enjoyed the blossoming friendship with Georgiana, she was uncertain whether her brother would allow it to continue.
What if he forbids Miss Darcy from calling on me because I am just an employee?
She then laughed at her silliness.
You are living a life leaving behind the people who raised you and the family you loved.
Nothing is permanent, Elizabeth. Nothing!
Chapter 18
