For the Love of Mr. Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

By Emma Berkeley

Devastated after being rejected by the wealthy Mr. Barrington, Elizabeth Bennet is comforted by her father who reminds her how special she is, and tells her that a man like Mr. Barrington does not deserve her wit, sprightliness and intellect. She feels grateful for her father's kind words since he understands her. However, she is determined to protect her heart from any wealthy man crushing her spirit. She vows to herself that she will have to fall in love before she ever considers a marriage proposition from now on.

Will Elizabeth change her mind when she meets Mr. Darcy?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Emma Berkeley
• Release date: Jan 29, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393573388

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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

This is a work of fiction. All characters, places, businesses, and incidents are from the author’s imagination, or they are used fictitiously and are definitely fictionalized. Any trademarks or pictures herein are not authorized by the trademark owners and do not in any way mean the work is sponsored by or associated with the trademark owners. Any trademarks or pictures used are specifically in a descriptive capacity.

No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form (electronic or print) without permission from the author. Please do not participate in piracy or violating the author’s rights.

© January, 2020. Emma Berkeley

Prologue

From Her Broken Heart

The day was bright and shining. It was the day Elizabeth received a letter from Mr. Barrington, when Mrs. Bennet had brought it in and quickly made work of handing it off to its rightful owner, causing all five daughters to squeal with delight. Elizabeth took the letter addressed to her and slowly opened the flap.

Well, what are you waiting for? Hurry up! Mrs. Bennet demanded with watching eyes.

Elizabeth smiled slightly, pausing her work, Mother, do be patient.

Mrs. Bennet motioned for her to continue. Elizabeth did, all five around her suddenly quiet. Once the envelope was opened, she very slowly unfolded the paper. Written on a lovely soft paper, scented like roses, with a delicate black ink were words from Mr. Barrington. Elizabeth read out loud:

"Dear lovely Miss Bennet,

If you would be so kind, I would love your company as I believe we must discuss our future. I do hope you will join me on an evening stroll tonight, after your evening feast when the sun begins to set. I will send for a carriage.

Good day to you. Until then, darling Elizabeth.

Sincerely,

Mr. Barrington."

The moment Elizabeth finished reading, the five around her began to celebrate with shrieks and squeals of delight. An excitement bloomed in Elizabeth’s chest and she had to reread those words. Truly, she could not believe they had reached such a place in their courting. She could remember when Mr. Barrington first caught her eye. He had been doing business with her father when she had first met him. He was kind, and charming – almost too good to be true and, yet, there he was.

Why, that is soon! Mrs. Bennet gasped, Go on and become presentable.

Elizabeth made no intention to move, but instead stood silently. Her mind was whirling like a storm, as joy and hope stirred wildly. The evening time seemed much too distance, and she found herself growing impatient.

Lizzie! Kitty giggled drawing her from her daydreams.

Jane linked arms with her sister as Lydia took the other arm and they began to pull clothing from her wardrobe. Elizabeth sat down upon the edge of her bed, a musical laughter slipping from her soft lips.

Do you suppose her hand is his desire? Jane asked Lydia.

Lydia pulled out a long blue dress, I just know it is! Why else ask a woman to discuss the future? Do you suppose Father knew? Surely such a man had first gotten his blessing.

Elizabeth rolled her eyes, unable to hide her smile, You two are more trouble than cats to a glass shop. I do not expect a vow of marriage from Mr. Barrington.

But? Jane giggled knowingly, taking the dress from Lydia and handing it over to Elizabeth.

Elizabeth grinned, taking the dress and leaning forward to whisper, "But I would not