Of Permission and Providence

A Pride and Prejudice Variation

By: Jae George

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

Note: This is not a new work. It has been republished to correct several minor errors. But I do have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed rereading it.
In this sweet, clean, low-angst Pride and Prejudice variation, Darcy and Elizabeth meet for the first time when Mr. Darcy Senior stumbles across Elizabeth on the estate grounds. Without a clue as to who this gentleman truly is, she is shepherded into the study to meet the young master of Pemberley. This novel is written from a decidedly Christian perspective, although there are scenes of non-graphic intimacy between married couples.
Excerpt:
“Father, what are you about? Why did you coerce poor Miss Bennet into the study? "
"Please sit down, Son. Do you not remember our agreement about you taking a wife and producing some grandchildren before I am too old to enjoy them?"
The young master sputtered. "Can you truly be serious about me considering Miss Bennet? Although I will admit that she is lovely, we know nothing about her other than that she has an uncle in trade."
"You refuse to attend the season in London any longer and tell me that you cannot abide the debutantes you have met there. It seems to me that a vibrant young woman from the country like Miss Bennet might just be the perfect solution to our problem."
"Father," he spoke in the calmest possible voice, "I believe that what you are really seeking is a healthy young woman to give you those grandchildren you seek."
"William, do you remember making me a promise when I was so ill two years ago? You promised me, that should I survive my fever, that you would take a wife and do your best to provide an heir for Pemberley before you turned thirty. At eight and twenty, giving yourself time to meet, court, marry and then have a child, you have truly reached your time limit. Now, William, I know you, Son. I know how you detest attending social events and interacting with those you don't know well. That is why I feel it is necessary to push you now. That is why I can't relax without knowing that you are well-married and settled. Besides needing an heir, you need a mistress for Pemberley and a helpmate. When I saw the lovely Miss Bennet sitting on the hillside this morning with her face lifted to the sun, eyes closed and smiling," he paused to regain his composure, "William, I honestly thought it was providential that she had shown up on our hillside.
"I'm not asking you to take her to wed without getting to know her. But let's not overlook what might be the Almighty's intervention. What if she really is the answer to my prayers, William? Will you not at least allow yourself to get to know her. We could invite her and her aunt and uncle to dinner."
Just at that moment, they heard the sound of carriage wheels on the gravel drive. Mr. Darcy Senior raised his eyebrows at his son and smiled. As a man of his word, William could hardly refuse his father's earnest request. He nodded, and the two men walked to the entrance to meet the Gardiners and extend a dinner invitation.

Very slow

Nothing really happened - I could not get interested and I didn’t like Darcy very much