“I prefer Longbourn.”
Jane’s hand moved slightly upon the table.
Miss Bingley studied Elizabeth for a moment longer, then turned the conversation elsewhere.
The remainder of the meal passed with less direct inquiry, though the earlier tone had not wholly faded.
Elizabeth observed Jane more closely. The color remained. There was a brightness in her eyes that did not belong to animation.
“You are not well,” Elizabeth said.
Jane shook her head. “It is nothing.”
Elizabeth frowned. “It is not nothing.”
Jane attempted a smile.
Miss Bingley noticed. “Miss Bennet, you appear unwell.”
“I am only a little fatigued.”
“You must go upstairs at once,” Miss Bingley said. “You cannot remain here in such a state.”
Jane rose without complaint. Elizabeth followed. They were shown to a chamber, where Jane was assisted to rest.
Elizabeth remained with her. “We should not have walked. We ought to have sent word,” she said.
“It is truly nothing, Lizzy.” Jane leaned against the pillows.
Elizabeth took her hand. “You must rest now.”
Jane closed her eyes.
Elizabeth remained beside her until her breathing settled. At last, she rose. She returned downstairs, making her way to the parlor. To her surprise, the gentlemen had returned. They stood in the sitting room, Bingley animated as ever, Mr. Hurst already seeking comfort, and Mr. Darcy—
Elizabeth’s attention faltered.
Miss Bingley’s expression, when Elizabeth entered, had tightened.
“Well?”
“Jane is not well,” Elizabeth said. “She is resting.”
Miss Bingley gave a graceful nod. “I feared as much.”
Mr. Darcy stepped forward. “The roads are unlikely to be passable tonight.”
Elizabeth regarded him.
“But your carriage—”
“Has returned with difficulty,” he said. “The rain has worsened the conditions.”
Elizabeth felt the implication. She would have to remain. “Then we are wholly dependent upon your hospitality,” she said.
“You are most welcome,” Mr. Bingley said.
Elizabeth dipped her head slightly. “We are obliged to you. Pray, excuse me so I might see to my sister.” Upstairs again, she paused at the door before entering. Elizabeth pressed her hand briefly against the wood before opening it.
