Page 12 of Painted with Love

“That will be a difficult discussion.”

“Most likely. But it must be had.”

“Well, Cousin, there is another difficult discussion we must have,” the colonel said, puzzling Darcy. “When we were in Kent, I escorted Miss Bennet on a walk…and we engaged in conversation…and I happened to mention that you congratulated yourself on separating one of your friends from a young lady unsuited to him. Now I understand it was Bingley and her sister. I am sure she guessed as much too.”

Darcy frowned while trying to remain calm. “Do you remember when you had that conversation?”

“Two or three days before we left Rosings. I think it was the day when she felt unwell and did not join the Collinses in taking tea at Rosings. You probably do not remember.”

Darcy held his breath. He did remember — only too well. It was a day he would never forget — the day of the dreadful proposal. No wonder Elizabeth had been so angry with him regarding Bingley since she had just had confirmation of his involvement.

“I remember. Miss Bennet and I had quite a quarrel about it.”

“I am sorry I did not mind my words and my business, Darcy.”

“I should have minded my own business about Bingley, too, Cousin. Perhaps it was for the best that you told Miss Bennet. That way, I had the opportunity to offer some explanations. Which were also wrong, of course.”

“Giving advice in matters of romance and affection is certainly not your strength, Darcy. What I find difficult to understand is why Bingley would listen to you. When I hold a lady in special regard, I certainly do not listen to anyone who purports to know my feelings — or hers.”

“You know too well that Bingley is a decent, honourable man but rather modest. He cannot confront his sisters, and he especially cannot dismiss my opinion. So he obeyed, which makes my error even more significant.”

“Upon my word, I do not envy you, Darcy. You have Georgiana, Wickham, and Bingley on your shoulders — three difficult situations you must settle properly. Let me know how I might help you. What can I do to ease your burden a little?”

“Nothing for now, Cousin. If I need help, I shall certainly ask.”

The colonel remained for a few hours, and the conversation continued without any reasonable conclusion. After he left, Darcy spent a few more hours reflecting on how to best proceed.

Georgiana sent word she would have dinner in her chamber with Mrs Annesley, and Darcy did not attempt to change her mind. He was ready to dine alone when Bingley was announced.

Darcy immediately welcomed his friend and invited him to join him.

“I did not expect you until tomorrow afternoon, Bingley.”

“I returned a day early. I am glad to see you, Darcy. I hope I am not bothering you. I know the hour is inappropriate.”

“You are certainly not bothering me. I am grateful for your company at dinner.”

“And Miss Darcy? Is she in good health?”

“Yes. She was a little indisposed and remained in her room tonight. And you, Bingley? How are you?”

“I am reasonably well,” Bingley replied, sitting down opposite Darcy. “A little confused as to why I spent so much time on someone else’s estate when I have a perfectly fine one that remains closed.”

“A fair question, I might say,” Darcy agreed. “Perhaps you should reconsider your plans, this time without asking for the opinions of others.”

At this, Bingley seemed bewildered, and a frown appeared on his face. Darcy continued with some uneasiness.

“There are a few important things we must discuss, and they might help you decide what to do. I owe you some explanations, and I am ashamed it has taken me so long.”

“What are you saying, Darcy?”

“Perhaps we should eat first. I do not want to ruin your appetite.”

“Well, it is a little late for that. What is wrong?”

“What is wrong was my arrogant presumption to advise you and to judge Miss Bennet’s feelings. I should not have interfered, especially since I am no expert on the subject.”

“Darcy, why are you telling me this now, after all these months?” Bingley asked, clearly dumbfounded.

“Because I have found out from a reliable source that my estimation was incorrect and that I might have induced you to act against your wishes.”

“May I ask what source?” Bingley asked, growing visibly uncomfortable.

“Miss Elizabeth Bennet. I met her in Kent, and we had quite a quarrel on this subject and several others.”

Bingley’s countenance immediately coloured, and he put down his fork.