Page 159 of Pride and Prejudice Resolutions

The rest of dinner passed in a blur of increasingly pointed comments, thinly veiled observations, and Robert's running commentary on Richard's romantic incompetence. By the time dessert arrived, Richard was contemplating desertion.

When the ladies withdrew to the drawing room, he attempted escape.

The Earl's voice stopped him at the door. "Richard."

He turned slowly.

"If you do pursue this," he said, his tone unusually serious, "make it quick. And secure the dowry. But more importantly—" He paused, looking uncomfortable. "Make certain she wants you. Not your name. Not your connections. You. Because amarriage built on anything else is a prison, and I will not have my son shackled and miserable."

Richard stared at his father, speechless.

"Now get out of here before your mother interrogates you further," the Earl said, waving him off. "And for God's sake, make a decision. The tick-tock is deafening."

In the drawing room, Jane pulled Georgiana aside whilst Elizabeth and the Countess discussed the merits of various charities.

"Georgiana," Jane said quietly. "Do you have Miss Bingley's direction?"

"Yes, she is at Portman Square with her brother. Why?"

Jane smiled, a small, determined smile. "Because I am going to invite her to tea. Tomorrow. Here. With Elizabeth and myself."

"Jane, are you certain? She might refuse you, given the past..."

"She will not refuse me," Jane said with quiet confidence. "And if she does, I shall simply arrive at her door with cakes and refuse to leave until she agrees."

Georgiana's eyes widened. "That is very... determined of you."

"I learned it from Robert," Jane admitted. "He is a terrible influence."

She sat down at the small escritoire in the corner and wrote quickly:

Dear Miss Bingley,

I hope this note finds you well. I am writing to invite you to tea tomorrow at Matlock House at three o'clock. My sister Mrs Darcy will be joining us, along with Miss Darcy. I would very much like your company.

Do say you will come. I have missed our conversations, and I believe you will find the afternoon enlightening.

Yours,

Jane Fitzwilliam, Viscountess Keathley

She sealed it with wax and handed it to a footman. "Deliver this to Miss Caroline Bingley at Portman Square. Tonight."

Georgiana watched the footman leave, then turned to Jane with wide eyes. "What are you planning?"

"I am planning," Jane said serenely, "to help two very stubborn people realise they are perfect for one another."

"That sounds dangerous."

"It is. But someone must do it. And I am very good at appearing harmless whilst causing havoc."

Chapter Eleven: Tea and Torment

Caroline Bingley had read Jane's invitation approximately four thousand times. The paper was beginning to show signs of structural fatigue. The wax seal had cracked. Her fingers had left smudges on the elegant script.

I would very much like your company.

What did that mean? Was it a threat disguised as courtesy? A trap baited with tea and pleasantries? An opportunity for Jane to deliver a well-deserved lecture on the evils of interfering sisters who dragged their brothers from Hertfordshire before proposals could be uttered?