Page 88 of The Governess of My Heart
As anticipated, the Bennets arrived first, and Mary tried to stay calm. She could not help it, as it was too much to contain. She was to spend time in the presence of the man her sister loved deeply; however, Mary was still unaware of Darcy’s proposal. She assumed that Darcy was here to assist his friend and nothing else.
Meanwhile, Jane had dressed immaculately for the evening, and she intended to impress Mr. Bingley and openly declared to her sisters that Mr. Bingley would propose to her anytime, and her mother hoped for the same. Mary had not discussed anything about the arrival of Darcy to her family and was still worried that his visit might put Elizabeth’s welfare in jeopardy.
When Mr. Bingley entered Lucas Lodge with his friend and his sister, Sir William hurried to welcome them.
He introduced the Bennets to Darcy. However, Darcy dreaded making new acquaintances and immediately spotted Mary amongst the sisters.
He noticed how Jane smiled at Bingley, and she immediately took his side. Within ten minutes, he found her flirting with his friend and sighed internally. He had seen him fall for many pretentious young women before and hoped it would not be the same case now.
Darcy was introduced to many other families, and Miss Bingley did not leave his side and constantly whispered sarcastic comments about the gathering.
Mary observed everything and stood with Mariah.
“Mary, I just learned Mr. Darcy is from Derbyshire. Isn’t that where Lizzy…” Mariah started.
“Shh!! Let us not discuss this here,” Mary stopped her.
“I understand; I am worried now.”
“Nothing will happen; do not worry. We have been able to safeguard this secret for so long. I am certain we can do the same.”
None in the gathering suspected that the two young girls had hidden such a secret for months.
As the evening progressed, Darcy waited impatiently to return to Netherfield. He found Mary glancing in his direction now and then, and the expression looked worried.
Lydia and the younger girls wanted to dance, and Mr. Bingley welcomed the idea and wanted Darcy to join them.
“I am in no mood to dance, Bingley. You know I detest it.”
“Don’t say that; there are so many pretty girls waiting for a partner.”
“They are better off sitting alone than dancing with me. Your partner seems to be waiting for you. Please go and enjoy her smiles.”
“She is the most beautiful woman I have ever seen.”
“You have said this many times before,” Darcy said and moved away to get some refreshments.
He found Mary standing near the coffee table, and she was startled when she came face to face with Darcy. On the other hand, Darcy did not know what to say to her.
Mary smiled faintly at him.
“Would you like some coffee, sir?” she asked, sounding unaffected.
Darcy hesitated, and Mary moved, giving him room to get his cup.
“Thank you,” he said.
“I hope Hertfordshire is to your liking,” she said, gathering the courage to speak to him.
“Yes, it is. It reminds me much of Derbyshire.”
“I hope you have a pleasant stay.”
“Thank you. I assume it will be short-lived, but I would not say the same about my friend,” he said, glancing at Bingley and Jane dancing together.
Mary looked at Mr. Bingley too, and felt sad to see him with Jane. Darcy noticed her expression.
“I meant he is delighted with Netherfield.”
