4. Chapter Four

Afew days later, with Jane fully recovered, Mr. Bingley reluctantly conceded that they had best go home, and placed his carriage at their disposal, bidding farewell to Jane with his heart in his eyes. Elizabeth forebore to tease her sister, however. Jane's wistful longing was all too evident as she gazed back at Netherfield until the carriage took them beyond its view.

Upon their arrival home at Longbourn, the warmth of the hearth and the welcome of their family enveloped them. Charlotte received them with open arms and an affectionate smile, while Mr. Bennet peered over his spectacles with a playful quirk of his lips.

"It is a relief to see you returned in better health, Jane," Charlotte said, her concern evident in her eyes as she regarded her eldest stepdaughter.

"Yes, indeed," Mr. Bennet added, closing the book in his hands with a soft thud. "Our home has been rather too quiet without the pair of you."

The sisters settled happily into the parlour, sharing tales of their stay at Netherfield. Elizabeth could sense Charlotte's sharp eyes on her whenever she spoke of Mr. Darcy, and she had to admit that her first impressions of him might indeed have been wrong; he had been solicitous of Jane's comfort, attentive to Elizabeth herself, and even defended their family against Miss Bingley's sharp barbs.

As the dinner hour approached, the rattle of wheels could be heard outside, and Elizabeth looked at Charlotte.

"Today is the expected day of Mr. Collins' arrival," Charlotte answered the unspoken question with a quick glance at Mary, who began to smooth her skirt with an unexpected care for her appearance.

Elizabeth's interest, momentarily diverted from the account of the recent sojourn at Netherfield, now sharpened with curiosity at the prospect of meeting their cousin.

Mr. Bennet rose, gesturing to his daughters with a mix of resignation and mild amusement. "Let us greet our guest then," he said. "No doubt he is eager to make the acquaintance of his cousins."

Jane, Elizabeth, and Mary lined up beside their father as the door opened to admit Mr. Collins. Their practiced curtsies were met with his overly deep bow, which he executed with a flourish that bordered on the theatrical.

"Mr. Collins," Mr. Bennet greeted his cousin with a weary formality.

"What a pleasure it is to be welcomed to Longbourn once more, sir," Mr. Collins gushed, wringing his hands together.

Elizabeth took in her cousin with amused distaste; a tall, heavy-set young man in clergyman's black, he somehow appeared equally arrogant and obsequious, looking up at Longbourn's fa?ade with a possessive air while simultaneously almost grovelling to her father. Exactly the fool he appeared from his letters, I see.

"Mr. Collins, welcome again to Longbourn," Charlotte greeted him with practiced grace. "You remember our dear Mary, I trust. And these are our eldest daughters who were away from home on your last visit, Jane and Elizabeth."

"Ah, indeed, Mrs. Bennet," Mr. Collins replied, his eyes swiftly appraising the new faces before him. A gleam of appreciation flickered in his gaze as he beheld Jane's golden beauty and Elizabeth's lively eyes. Mary, who received but a cursory glance, shuffled her feet slightly, feeling the sting of being overlooked despite her efforts to put on a pretty gown and curl her hair.

"Such pleasure it brings me to meet the daughters of the house," Mr. Collins said, his voice taking on a tone of heightened interest. "I have heard much about the beauty and accomplishments of Miss Jane and Miss Elizabeth Bennet. I must confess that my curiosity has been most eager to verify these claims for myself. The accounts of your charms, it seems, were most understated!"

"Then we are equally curious, sir," Elizabeth replied with a playful smile, "to discover if your own reputation for wit and eloquence holds true as well."

"Ah, Miss Elizabeth," Mr. Collins chuckled, seemingly pleased by her remark, "I see that you possess not only beauty but also a keen and lively mind."

As the conversation unfolded, Elizabeth observed Mr. Collins with a mixture of amusement and bemusement, noting his overblown compliments and pondering what his visit might portend for the future of Longbourn and its inhabitants.

The parlour at Longbourn shimmered with the soft glow of candlelight, casting a warm and inviting atmosphere upon the assembled group. Mr. Collins, still basking in the admiration he believed he had inspired in his fair cousins, could hardly contain his delight.

"Ah, Mr. Collins," said Charlotte, gently drawing him aside after dinner as she sensed that Mr. Collins' attention was becoming too fixed on Jane, "I must inform you that our dear Miss Bennet has attracted the notice of a most eligible bachelor. Mr. Charles Bingley, a gentleman of considerable fortune, has shown great interest in her."

"Indeed!" exclaimed Mr. Collins, his eyebrows lifting in surprise. "Why, this is most gratifying news, Mrs. Bennet! Nothing could give me greater pleasure than to see my lovely cousins suitably matched."

"Mr. Bingley's attentions have been most assiduous," continued Charlotte, her voice tinged with just the right note of pride. "And I am sure you will agree that a gentleman of his standing would be an excellent match for our Jane."

"Undoubtedly," agreed Mr. Collins, his gaze shifting from Jane to Elizabeth, who was just then laughing at something her father was reading from his book. "And what of Miss Elizabeth? Does she too have a suitor?"

"Elizabeth has many admirers, as you may well imagine," said Charlotte, seizing the opportunity to redirect Mr. Collins' focus. "But, in knowing that part of your purpose of this visit is to consider one of Longbourn's daughters as a possible helpmeet for yourself, I would be remiss if I did not use my superior knowledge of my daughters to assist in your selection. Mary has just returned from a stay with her aunt and uncle in London, where she has been refining her accomplishments. I believe you will find her an engaging conversationalist, particularly on matters of moral improvement."

"Ah, Miss Mary," Mr. Collins said, turning his attention to the youngest of the three sisters present. His mouth turned down at the corners as he considered her, sitting in a shadow as she happened to be at that moment. Her thin, pointed face, mud-brown hair and glasses did not make her appear to advantage beside Jane's ethereal golden beauty and Elizabeth's vibrant dark looks.

"Mary has indeed previously espoused happiness at the thought of being a clergyman's wife," Charlotte said confidingly.

"Hm." Mr. Collins looked more thoughtful at that remark. "Miss Mary," he said, moving away from Charlotte. "Is that Fordyce's Sermons I spy on the table beside you?"

"It is, sir!" Mary started, catching the book up in her hand eagerly.

Mr. Collins smiled and took the seat beside Mary.

As the conversation between Mr. Collins and Mary unfolded, Elizabeth observed Charlotte's subtle machinations with a mixture of admiration and concern. She knew that her clever stepmother had only the best intentions for them all, but she could not help but wonder if Mr. Collins' attentions would prove a blessing or a burden for Mary.

"Stepmother," she whispered softly to her stepmother as they stood together at the edge of the room, "I cannot help but feel some apprehension about the direction of this evening's events. Mary is still only eighteen… perhaps too young to be married. Too young to know her own mind. You are serving her up to Mr. Collins on a platter!"

"Dearest Lizzy," replied Charlotte, "do not let your fears cloud your judgment. Your father and I will not press Mary into anything in haste."

"I know," Elizabeth accepted, her thoughts still troubled. "But I fear we may be meddling in affairs beyond our control."

"Trust in my judgment, dear one," said Charlotte, placing a comforting hand on Elizabeth's arm. "All shall be well, provided we proceed with care and discretion. Your father and I want what is best for all of you."

Elizabeth believed Charlotte meant what she said. However, she was also keenly aware that despite being married to her father for a decade, Charlotte had also failed to provide him with the son and heir needed to ensure the Bennets would remain at Longbourn after Mr. Bennet's demise. The entail meant that with no son, Mr. Collins would inherit Longbourn, and Charlotte and any remaining unmarried Bennet daughters would be entirely at Mr. Collins' mercy. If one of the sisters married Mr. Collins, however, Charlotte could be sure that their affection would see her always secure in her home.

Self-interest must be playing a part in Charlotte's decision making, Elizabeth considered as she watched Mary take a seat at the pianoforte. Elizabeth winced internally, hoping Mary did not intend to sing; while Mary's playing was adequate, her voice was thin and reedy, and she had difficulty holding to a tune.

Fortunately, Mary selected some music without a vocal accompaniment, and made a good showing of herself. Elizabeth could not help but notice, however, that Mr. Collins' attention did not fix on Mary for long during her performance; their cousin's gaze rested most often on Elizabeth, making her feel quite uncomfortable. Whether or not Mary wished to marry Mr. Collins, Elizabeth already knew that she herself quite definitively could never be happy as the wife of such a man.

Beneath the soft glow of candlelight, Jane Bennet stood quietly by the window, her gaze fixed on the tableau unfolding before her. Mr. Collins' earnest attempts to engage with Elizabeth and Mary were met by a mixture of subtle amusement from Elizabeth and poorly-concealed eagerness from Mary. Elizabeth's glance of appeal prompted Jane to intervene, and she moved across to request her sister's assistance on a trifling matter with her handiwork, leaving Mary as the exclusive focus of Mr. Collins' attention.

"Dear Lizzy," Jane said softly as she and Elizabeth retreated to the far side of the room, "I cannot help but be grateful that Mr. Collins seems to have chosen not to bestow his attentions upon me. I think I would find it rather disconcerting to be the object of such... persistent admiration."

"Indeed, dear sister," Elizabeth replied, her eyes sparkling with mirth, "you must count yourself fortunate to be spared such an experience. Mary is quite welcome to it."

As the sisters exchanged knowing glances, Charlotte approached them, her countenance calm and purposeful. She took Jane's hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze.

"See," she whispered, "though Mr. Collins at first showed little interest in Mary, he is certainly responding to her interest in him."

This was undeniable, and both Jane and Elizabeth nodded, watching Mr. Collins leaning in closer to Mary with interest as Mary talked, animation upon her subject brightening her eyes.

"None of us are unaware of Mr. Bingley's notice of you, Jane. It would be wise, I believe, to reciprocate his interest openly. A man of such fine character and fortune is not to be trifled with, after all," Charlotte said quietly. "I have planned a small dinner party, to celebrate your cousin's arrival to the neighbourhood, and of course the Netherfield party are invited. Welcoming Mr. Bingley into our home is an ideal opportunity to show him how you feel."

Jane's cheeks flushed with a delicate pink, and her heart fluttered in response to Charlotte's words. Though she had certainly noticed Mr. Bingley's growing affection, her innate reserve held her back from embracing the prospect of a courtship too eagerly.

"Thank you for your counsel, Stepmother," Jane murmured. "I shall endeavour to bear your advice in mind."

"Remember, my dear," Charlotte added gently, releasing Jane's hand, "that it is of the utmost importance to give a gentleman reason to believe his affections are not in vain. It is a delicate balance to manage while maintaining every appearance of propriety, but one that must be attempted for the sake of securing a suitable match."

As Charlotte withdrew with a nod and a smile, Jane's thoughts raced with conflicting emotions. On one hand, she was flattered by Mr. Bingley's attentions and found his company delightful; on the other, she hesitated to outstep the bounds of propriety and risk appearing forward.

"Let your heart guide you, dear sister," Elizabeth encouraged her, sensing her inner turmoil. "And remember, it is only natural to feel some degree of uncertainty when faced with matters of love and courtship. Trust yourself, and all will be well."

Taking a deep breath, Jane resolved to heed the words of both her stepmother and sister. She would walk the line between reserve and openness, allowing her true feelings for Mr. Bingley to shine through while retaining the modesty that defined her character. Despite her shyness at the thought of allowing Mr. Bingley to see her heart in such a way, her spirits rose at the thought of discovering the depth of their mutual affection.

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow across Longbourn as final preparations were made for the intimate gathering Charlotte had planned for the evening. The fragrance of fresh flowers filled the air, and the sound of laughter mingled with strains of music drifting from within. Elizabeth stood in the parlour, surveying the scene and marvelling at Charlotte's ability to create such an elegant atmosphere. As the guests began to arrive, she noticed Jane standing off to the side, her gaze distant and thoughtful.

"Jane," Elizabeth said softly, approaching her sister, "I can see that you are still troubled by our conversation with Stepmama. Remember, it is only natural to have doubts and fears when faced with matters of the heart."

Jane smiled weakly, her eyes filled with gratitude for her sister's understanding. "Thank you, Lizzy. I shall try my best to trust my instincts and follow my heart, as you advised."

"Good," Elizabeth replied, her eyes twinkling. "Now, let us enjoy the evening and the company of those we hold dear."

As the evening progressed, the intimate gathering proved to be just what everyone needed. The few senior officers Charlotte had invited regaled the company with tales of their military prowess, while the Lucases engaged in lively discussions about the latest news from London. The Netherfield party shared stories of their travels and experiences, eliciting laughter and delight from the assembled guests.

Charlotte, ever attentive to the needs of her guests, kept a watchful eye on Jane throughout the evening. She noted with pleasure that Jane appeared to become more at ease as she conversed with Mr. Bingley, his genuine affection for her evident in every word and gesture.

"Jane seems to be faring well tonight, do you not think?" Charlotte remarked to Elizabeth, who nodded in agreement.

"Indeed," Elizabeth replied. "Your advice to her has not gone unheeded, and I believe she is beginning to trust herself more in matters of the heart."

"Let us hope that she and Mr. Bingley find their way to each other, for they are well-suited indeed," Charlotte said with a warm smile.

The candles flickered softly, casting a warm glow over the elegant assembly at Longbourn. Charlotte had outdone herself with the arrangements, and even Caroline Bingley, ever eager to find fault, could find little to complain about as the guests rose from the dinner table.

"Your home is quite delightful, Mrs. Bennet," she offered, attempting to sound gracious. "You have made it most... comfortable."

"Thank you, Miss Bingley," Charlotte replied, her eyes sparkling with satisfaction. "We are pleased to welcome you all here this evening."

As Mary sat down at the pianoforte and the music began, Mr. Darcy approached Elizabeth with a mixture of determination and trepidation. "Miss Bennet," he said, bowing slightly, "might I request the honour of this dance?"

Elizabeth hesitated for a moment, recalling their previous encounter on the dance floor, but she found herself willing to give him another chance. "Very well, Mr. Darcy," she replied, accepting his proffered hand. "I shall be happy to oblige."

As they moved gracefully through the steps of the dance, Elizabeth was surprised to find herself enjoying the experience far more than she had anticipated. The stiffness and formality that had characterized their earlier interactions seemed to have given way to a newfound ease and understanding.

A burst of laughter rang through the room as Jane, her cheeks flushed with pleasure, twirled around the floor in Mr. Bingley's arms. The warmth in his eyes was unmistakable, and for once, Jane allowed herself to bask in it unreservedly. She glanced over at Elizabeth, who was apparently laughing at something Mr. Darcy had just said to her, and the weight of uncertainty that had hitherto clouded Jane's thoughts began to dissipate.

"Your sister has a most charming laugh, Miss Bennet," Mr. Bingley observed, his own laughter mingling with hers. "One can scarcely help but be drawn to it."

"Indeed, her laughter is contagious," Jane agreed, emboldened by the genuine affection she saw reflected in Mr. Bingley's eyes. "I have always found such joy in her company, especially during trying times."

"Then we are alike in that respect," he replied warmly, pressing her hand ever so slightly. "For I, too, find your presence most enjoyable."

The sincerity in his words stirred something deep within Jane's chest, and she hesitated for a moment before responding. "Might I confess something, Mr. Bingley?" she asked, her voice soft and tentative.

"Please do," he encouraged, his eyes never leaving hers.

"Your companionship has become very dear to me," she admitted, her heart swelling with a mixture of relief and trepidation. "I find myself looking forward to our meetings with great anticipation."

"Miss Bennet," Mr. Bingley breathed, the corners of his mouth curling into a tender smile, "I must tell you that your confession fills me with joy, for my sentiments towards you echo your own."

"Truly, Mr. Bingley?" Jane's eyes widened with surprise and delight.

"Indeed," he assured her, his expression earnest. "I have found my thoughts occupied with you more often than not, and I cannot imagine a greater happiness than to secure your affections."

"Then, sir," Jane replied, her voice trembling with emotion as her hesitations melted away, "you have succeeded in that endeavour, for I am certain in my regard for you."

As they continued to dance, their conversation flowing effortlessly between them, Jane felt the last remnants of her uncertainty vanish like mist before the sun. In Mr. Bingley's arms, she had found a partner who valued her kindness and gentle nature as much as her beauty. And with the support of Elizabeth and Charlotte, she had learned to trust her own instincts and open her heart to love.