Page 28 of Timing Is Everything

Their next kiss was even longer.

When Charles Bingley arrived at Longbourn he was determined to follow Louisa’s advice. As they walked out into the garden, Bingley was at first concerned with how he could separate himself and Miss Bennet from Darcy and Miss Elizabeth without causing any sort of suspicion. He realized his friend must have been sensitive to his need when he turned around not five minutes after leaving the house and found that they were alone.

“My lease for Netherfield Park expires in September,” Bingley started. “I have long wanted your opinion on whether I should make a purchase offer, renew the lease, or abandon the neighborhood.”

“I thought you had already decided to leave the neighborhood,” Jane replied softly. “If Mr. Darcy had not requested the use of Netherfield Park, would you have returned?”

“I was unsure that the neighborhood wanted me to return,” Bingley answered. “I was confused. I still am.”

“What is confusing?”

“I want to ask you a question. A question that I know I cannot ask for a few more months. I am confused because I do not know if you want me to stay and ask the question, or if you want me to leave you in peace.”

“Why did you not return and ask the question months ago?”

“I thought you did not care for me.”

“Why did you not come and see me in London?” Jane asked.

“When were you in London?” Bingley asked, genuinely perplexed.

“I went to London shortly after Christmas and was there until word came of my father’s passing. I visited your sisters, and Miss Bingley returned the visit. They gave me the impression that you knew about my visit.”

“They never mentioned it to me,” Bingley responded, bewildered.

“Why would they do that?” Jane asked.

“I do not know.”

“Were you much in company with Miss Darcy while you were in London?” Jane inquired.

“Darcy’s sister?” Bingley asked, trying to follow Jane’s line of thought. “Why would I be in company with Darcy’s sister?”

“Miss Bingley wrote that she was expecting an announcement between you and Miss Darcy,” Jane revealed.

“She said that?”

“Yes.”

There was a slight pause before Bingley continued speaking.

“I find I am grateful that my sisters have left the neighborhood. I do not know what I would say to Caroline if I were to see her again today.”

“I would not want to cause contention within your family,” Jane added softly.

“You would not be causing contention,” Bingley insisted. “Caroline’s actions are her own.”

“But what of Mrs. Hurst? She also hid the fact that I was in London.”

“I do not know why my sisters hid your presence from me, but I know that Louisa is expecting an announcement from us and would welcome it.”

“How can you be so sure?” Jane asked.

“She told me so this morning before they left,” Bingley answered.

There were a few moments of pondering before Jane asked another question.

“What was the last decision you made on your own?”