Page 99 of The Governess of My Heart
“No, but I did not think you would prefer to dance with me; I thought you may want to dance with my sis… I mean…” She hesitated to complete the sentence.
It suddenly struck Mr. Bingley how Mary felt.
“Please do not misconstrue my intentions. I genuinely want to dance the first dance with you. I may have preferred to dance with your sister on all the previous occasions, but I would be honored if you would dance with me now.”
Mary stared at him, surprised by his open declaration.
“Will you?” he asked again.
“Of course,” she said. His words were honest, and she knew he was incapable of paying her attention just to irritate Jane, and there were many other young women in the room he could have chosen to do so.
Mr. Bingley was happy when Mary agreed, and he did not want her to misunderstand him. He realized ever since they were introduced, he had liked her.
Meanwhile, Darcy was tired of Sir William’s conversations. He chose to stay engaged in the same to dodge Miss Bingley and Jane.
Finally, they had no choice but to leave to get refreshments as they did not get Darcy’s attention. Mary was happy to see Mariah as usual.
“It is so odd not to have Charlotte and Lizzy here.”
“It is, Mariah. I still cannot believe everything that happened. It pains me to think I may never see Lizzy again.”
“Why would you say that? She can visit Charlotte. You can go and see her.”
“It’s not that easy. I do not want to risk Lizzy’s situation in any way.”
“I hope Mr. Darcy does not overhear anything about Lizzy’s disappearance here.”
“I am worried about that as well,” Mary replied.
Jane and Miss Bingley were getting anxious by the minute. Darcy had not asked either of them to dance.
Lydia and Kitty had already secured their partners. With no intention of dancing, Darcy stood wondering what his friend was up to.
Just then, Mr. Bingley approached him.
“Don’t tell me you are planning to stand and watch us dance, Darcy.”
“That is what I intend to do.”
“Well, you will not. I am certain you can dance one or two dances at least.”
“I do not know anyone here.”
“Of course you do. You do know my sister and the Bennet girls as well. Come on, don’t make me find you a partner,” he said and walked away.
Mr. Bingley passed by Jane and stopped.
“I hope you are doing well, Miss Bennet,” he said to Jane.
“I am well, sir,” she said in reply.
Mr. Bingley found her to be cold and aloof and looked worried.
“Miss Bennet, the dance is about to start. If you are not otherwise engaged, would you dance with me? The first dance I have asked your sis…” He was not allowed to complete.
“I am sorry, sir. I am engaged for all the dances today,” she said, smiling.
Mr. Bingley did not know what to say.
