Page 213 of The Long Road Back to Yesterday

* * *

The Gouldings had arranged the picnic on the broad lawn behind the house, where several large trees provided shade. Tables stood beneath them, and servants carried baskets and dishes from the house while the arriving guests gathered across the lawn.

Mr. and Mrs. Goulding received the Netherfield party near the terrace.

“Mr. Bingley, we are delighted you have decided to make Netherfield your home for the next two years,” Mrs. Goulding said. “I hope we have all made you and your family feel welcome, sir.”

“You are very kind. I already begin to feel quite settled.”

He glanced down at Jane, who held his arm.

Mrs. Goulding smiled. “I see you have already made the acquaintance of some of our neighbors.”

Mr. Goulding called to a tall young man who was speaking with Alexander Lucas several yards away.

“Steven.”

The young man excused himself and came toward them. Alexander followed close behind.

“My eldest son, Steven Goulding. He has only lately returned to Hertfordshire.”

Steven bowed as the introductions were made. When Kitty was presented, his gaze lingered for a moment before he bowed to Georgiana.

Mrs. Goulding took her son by the arm and said, “Steven, you have not yet met the Merriweathers. Come along, son, and I shall introduce you.”

Kitty watched them go before Georgiana slipped her arm through hers and drew her toward the lawn.

* * *

By the time luncheon was announced, the shade beneath the trees had become welcome.

Bingley found a place for Jane beneath a spreading beech and saw her settled before going to the tables. He returned with a plate and placed it before her.

“I was not certain whether you preferred the cold chicken or the ham, so I brought you some of each.”

Laughing, she thanked him.

He set a glass beside her and took the chair nearest hers.

Caroline approached a moment later.

“Charles, have you forgotten that you have a sister?”

“Forgive me, Caroline. I was not thinking.”

He rose and went back toward the tables.

Caroline sat beside Louisa.

“These days he appears incapable of thinking of anyone but Miss Bennet.”

* * *

After they had eaten, Kitty and Georgiana stood at the edge of the lawn gathering ripe blackberries when Steven approached them.

“Miss Catherine Bennet.”

Kitty looked up at him.