Page 48
Book 2 Chapter 8
“Oh Eliza, it is so good to see you.”
Elizabeth allowed herself to be hugged by her friend, unaccustomed to such displays of emotion.
“There is no need to ask how you are, being engaged clearly agrees with you.”
A mischievous smile her only answer.
“Did Jane not accompany you?”
“No, she and her husband are travelling on either Thursday or Friday, depending on the weather. You will hear when she arrives, as the shrieks of joy will be heard all the way from Longbourn.”
Charlotte looked confused for a moment until Elizabeth cradled her stomach in front of her.
“Not a word to anyone. We both want to ensure Mrs. Bennet’s effusions do not overshadow your day.”
Elizabeth made a face.
“Talking of whom, what is the reaction from Longbourn to you picking me as the bridesmaid?”
“They do not know!”
Elizabeth was unable to hide her smile.
“Truly?”
“Everyone assumes it is Mariah. My mother will let it be known on Thursday so that your mother can get all her sulks out of the way.”
Elizabeth looked at her friend.
“Things are strained between the two of them at present.”
Elizabeth winced.
“Dare I ask?”
“After years of being compared unfavourably to Jane, now it is with Kitty, sorry Catherine. I really do not know why she insists on these comparisons?”
“I cannot defend the indefensible. I am glad your mother has called her to account.”
“It is just so unnecessary. We are both getting married but still she cannot keep her own counsel. And you are not going to be there?”
“No. I am not invited and am not going to spoil Catherine’s day. I will see her this week and she knows I will be thinking of her. Do you know if this Mr. Collins is coming to your wedding?”
“No, he is not coming. He will preach on the Sunday and then travel here at the start of the week. Why do you ask?”
“I have never met him. I presume he knows I have been banished so I am unlikely to be invited to stay.”
Charlotte felt sad for her friend.
“What about you? Has anyone caught your eye, or have you attracted the attention of any gentleman?”
“That is the thing with London, there are lots of men. But truthfully, I have been careful in how I appear when in society.”
Charlotte was struck by the very cautious wording.
“Are you concerned?”
