The Eldest | F. Darcy

Chapter 4: After Jane

As soon as the dance ended, Darcy was only too glad to retreat to his isolated corner, his expression as cold and unreadable as ever. Within a few minutes, Adele reentered the room, and—though he would not acknowledge it aloud—she became the object of his unwavering attention.

"I can guess the subject of your reverie," Caroline Bingley remarked, sidling up beside him.

"I should imagine not," Darcy replied, his gaze still fixed upon the mysterious lady standing in quiet conversation with her father and Mary.

"You are considering how insupportable it must be to pass many evenings in this manner—in such company. Indeed, I quite agree! I have never been more annoyed. The insipidity, the noise, the self-importance of all these people!" She sighed dramatically. "Oh, what I would give to hear your strictures on them!"

"Your conjecture is entirely mistaken," Darcy said, barely sparing her a glance. "My mind was far more agreeably engaged. I was contemplating the great pleasure which can be bestowed by the most beautiful pair of eyes I have ever seen—set in the face of an equally beautiful woman."

Miss Bingley's head snapped toward him in shock, jealousy flickering in her sharp gaze.

"And who, pray, might be the fortunate lady who has captured your admiration?"

Darcy turned to her with a measured expression, his voice cool yet decisive. "Miss Adele Bennet."

"Ah! Miss Adele!" Caroline forced a laugh, though her displeasure was evident. "Of course. The pair of unique violet eyes with icy blue flecks—how very singular. Still, I must say, I am all astonishment. How long has she been your favorite? And pray, when am I to wish you joy?"

Darcy said nothing, allowing the conversation to die as his gaze found Adele once more.

She was watching Jane and Bingley, the picture of quiet contentment. It was unknown to her that, at that very moment, she was being observed with the same admiration she bestowed upon her sister and Mr. Bingley.

Halfway through the evening, the arrival of a new gentleman caused a ripple of excitement among the guests.

Young and undeniably handsome, with striking green eyes and golden hair, he carried himself with easy confidence.

Darcy, too preoccupied with watching Adele, barely registered the addition—until he noticed the sudden brightness in her expression.

Something in his chest tightened.

The gentleman approached Sir and Lady Lucas, greeting them with familiarity before turning with a charming smile.

"James!" The name rang out from all five Bennet sisters, who hurried forward eagerly. They curtsied, and he bowed in return, his warmth evident. Charlotte Lucas followed on their heels and greeted him with an affectionate smile.

"How are you, brother James?" she asked.

James Lucas smiled at his sister before turning to the Bennet ladies. "And what of you, my dear sisters?" He addressed them all with equal fondness.

"We are well," said Lydia, while Kitty added, "and happy to see you!"

Jane and Mary nodded in agreement. Charlotte merely smiled.

Elizabeth, however, turned mischievously to James and whispered, "Though someone does not appear quite so pleased."

James followed her gaze to Adele, who stood a step apart from the others. She gave only a small smile, her posture composed, yet she did not meet his eyes.

"My dear Miss Bennet," he said, taking her hand and pressing a light kiss upon it. "Am I not welcome?"

"I thought you were speaking to your sisters," she replied, a hint of playfulness in her voice. "Though I do consider myself your friend."