N'3

Elizabeth considered his words. “It’s an interesting prospect,” she said. Ultimately. “But I think that literature can also help us understand the truths that we don't always see in everyday life. »

“Maybe,” he conceded. “But it is always important to distinguish between fiction and reality. »

Their exchanges were always full of innuendo and reflection, and Elizabeth

realized that she enjoyed these moments of intellectual debate with Mr. Darcy. But despite these deep conversations, she remained cautious. She knew that her behavior towards her and her family was sometimes ambiguous, and she did not want to let yourself be carried away by premature feelings.As the days passed, the arrival of Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy to Netherfield continued. to provoke varied reactions among the Bennets and their neighbors. If Mr. Bingley were widely appreciated for his friendliness and charm, Mr. Darcy remained an enigma for many, including Elizabeth.

But one thing was clear: their presence had disrupted the calm of Longbourn, and everyone wondered what the future held for these chance encounters that seemed becoming more and more important in the lives of the Bennets.

The evening of the ball at Meryton was shaping up to be the social event of the season, a time when the most respectable families and young people of the region gathered to dance, chat and, perhaps, form deeper connections. The room ball was magnificently decorated, bathed in light and animated by music joyful which invited guests to let themselves be carried away by the festive atmosphere.

The Bennets were among the first to arrive, each member of the family sporting her finest attire. Jane, with her gentle and elegant beauty, naturally attracted glances, while Elizabeth, full of vivacity and wit, displayed an amused smile.

Mrs. Bennet did not hide her excitement, scanning the room in search of Mr.

Bingley and his companions.

When the latter finally made their entrance, all attention was focused on them. Mr.

Bingley, charming as ever, seemed perfectly at ease, greeting amiably each other. Beside him, Mr. Darcy remained more withdrawn, his face impassive. and his piercing gaze. Elizabeth immediately noticed this difference in attitude, which aroused in her a certain curiosity mixed with apprehension.

Jane and Mr. Bingley were soon reunited, their shy smiles betraying a budding affection that escaped no one. They began to dance, their movements in perfect harmony, as if they were made to be together. Elizabeth, observing the scene, felt a surge of happiness for her sister, while wondering about Mr. Bingley's feelings. Was he sincere, or was it just a another fleeting encounter?As she looked around, Elizabeth caught Mr. Darcy's eye. He stood at aside, watching the dancers with an expression she couldn't decipher. Suddenly feeling bold, she approached him, determined to find out who it was.

truly this mysterious man.

"Mr. Darcy," she said with a polite smile, "you don't seem to enjoy dancing.

as much as Mr. Bingley. »

He looked at her, surprised by her frankness. “It’s not that I don’t enjoy dancing, Miss

Bennet,” he replied calmly. “But I prefer to observe before participating. »

" Observe ? » repeated Elizabeth, intrigued. “And what are you observing, exactly? »

“People,” he said, staring at her intently. “Their behaviors, their interactions.

It’s fascinating to see how everyone reacts in a social situation like this.

here. »

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow, amused. “And what do you think of what you observed? This evening ? »

Mr. Darcy hesitated a moment, then replied: “There is much warmth and cheerfulness here.

But also a lot of superficiality. »

This response took Elizabeth by surprise. “Superficiality? You find these people superficial? »

“Not all,” he clarified. “But it’s easy to see who’s trying to impress and who’s simply himself. »

Elizabeth felt a pang of defiance rise within her. “And what about me, Mr. Darcy? Am I superficial? »He looked at her for a long time before answering, as if he were weighing each word. “You, Miss

Bennet, you are an enigma. You have wit, intelligence, but also a certain malice. You are not easy to read. »

Elizabeth didn't know how to interpret this response. Was it a compliment or a critical ? She decided not to dwell on the question and change the subject.

“And Mr. Bingley?” What do you think of his new friendship with Jane? »

A slight smile appeared on Mr. Darcy. "Mr. Bingley is a good man heart. He sees the best in everyone, which is both a strength and a weakness. As for

Miss Bennet, she seems to be a very pleasant young lady. »

“She is,” Elizabeth confirmed proudly. “Jane is an exceptional person, full of gentleness and generosity. »

Mr. Darcy nodded. “It shows. But sometimes it is difficult to discern the people's true intentions. The human heart is complex. »

Elizabeth wondered if he was referring to something specific, but before she

unable to ask another question, a lady came up to speak to Mr. Darcy, ending their conversation. Elizabeth withdrew, slightly frustrated at not having could learn more.

The evening continued, and Elizabeth couldn't help but keep an eye on Mr. Darcy. He danced a few times, but always seemed distant, as if he never let himself completely go. On the other hand, Mr. Bingley was the life of the party, dancing with several young women, but always returning to Jane, as if drawn by a force irresistible.

At one point, Elizabeth overheard a conversation between Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy.

She could only hear a few snatches, but Mr. Darcy's tone was serious, almost reproachful. Elizabeth wondered what could possibly be worrying him so much.While standing near the buffet, Caroline Bingley, Mr. Bingley's sister,

approached her with a condescending smile.

“Miss Bennet,” Caroline said sweetly, “I hope you have a pleasant evening. »

“Very nice, thank you,” Elizabeth replied, warily.

“I see that Jane and my brother get along wonderfully,” Caroline continued, casting a glance towards the couple. “It’s always nice to see new friendships develop.

train, right? »

“Indeed,” Elizabeth agreed. “Jane is delighted to meet your brother. »

Caroline smiled, but there was a coldness in her eyes. “Yes, Jane is a young charming woman. But sometimes it's easy to get carried away with the first impressions, right? »

Elizabeth sensed a hint of hostility in his words. “First impressions can be misleading, it’s true. But they do not always define the truth. »

"You're absolutely right," Caroline replied, her smile firming. " He is

It's important to know people well before forming a definitive opinion. »

With these words, Caroline walked away, leaving Elizabeth perplexed. It was obvious that

Caroline Bingley did not approve of her brother's interest in Jane. Elizabeth wondered

whether Mr. Darcy shared this opinion, and whether this was what they had discussed earlier.The ball ended on a mixed note for Elizabeth. Although Jane and Mr. Bingley seemed to be getting closer, the distance and the enigmatic attitude of Mr. Darcy left her perplexed. She wondered what really motivated his actions and words.

On the way back to Longbourn, the Bennets discussed the evening. Mrs.

Bennet was delighted to

Mr. Bingley's attention to Jane, convinced that it would lead to a marriage proposal.

“Jane, you absolutely must continue to be so charming and kind,” advised Mrs. Bennett. “Mr. Bingley is such a nice man. It would be perfect for you. »

Jane, always reserved, responded with a smile. “Mom, it’s still too early to talk about marriage. We are just getting to know each other. »

“But it’s clear he really likes you,” insisted Mrs. Bennett. “And what do you think of

Mr. Darcy, Lizzy? Isn’t it a little…strange? »