Posted on Thursday, 31 May 2001
WARNING: Following story contains scenes with high levels of mush. If you have an aversion or low tolerance to mush (this is pointed at you angst-lovers), then turn back now before you are seized with gagging fits. :p
Now, for you mush-romantics I am pleased to bring an intermission, if you will, between chapters of The Task at Hand. This is meant to be a short story, a diversion. I was inspired by the song "You've Got a Way..." by Shania Twain from the Notting Hill Soundtrack. It's a beautiful song, and if you can, listen to it while you read this story. :) Anyway, in this story, Darcy and Elizabeth are newlyweds and have their first spat over Elizabeth taking or not taking William's name. This is an attempt to combine the beauty of the song with the passion and love that our dear hero and heroine share for each other. I hope you enjoy. Thanks Ames for all your wonderful work. I hope you get to see the revisions before you leave for home! I'll miss you!
As they drove in silence to the Gardiner's 25th wedding anniversary celebration, William and Elizabeth Darcy contemplated a fight that had erupted a week ago. It is not unusual for newlywed couples to have disagreements, especially when they have been married for only 3 months, but William and Elizabeth were not the average couple. Although William's nature was usually reserved and thoughtful and Elizabeth's was playful and witty, each of their qualities complemented them as a couple. For all their differences, they did share a common characteristic-persistent stubbornness. The disagreement that had occurred a week ago was their first lesson on how this quality could affect their relationship.
They were riding in their sleek Lexus. William was driving, Elizabeth was sitting on the passenger side, and Georgianna was in the backseat. If she had been given a choice, she would have preferred going with anyone else besides the couple in front of her. Normally, Georgianna loved being in their company. She enjoyed their playful banter and was pleased by the obvious affection they both shared for each other. But tonight was different.
Georgiana observed the couple in front of her. Although they were sitting next to each other, it was obvious, to someone who was familiar with the couple, that something was amiss. Whenever they drove anywhere together, Elizabeth's body would usually be turned towards William. Sometimes one of William's hands would leave the steering wheel and find it's way into one of Elizabeth's hands. Georgianna let out a quiet sigh as she noticed that both William's hands were firmly on the steering wheel and Elizabeth's body was facing the passenger side window. Too make matters more tense the couple had not exchanged any more words than what civility required. Georgianna did not know what was wrong, but she had been observing their behavior ever since she had arrived two days ago.
William sneaked a glance at Elizabeth sitting on the passenger side. She was looking out the window. He and Elizabeth had had disagreements in the past, but they always managed to reconcile. But this was the longest, since their marriage, that they had gone without resolving a disagreement. He moved slightly in his seat as the thought that they might not be able to get past this went through his mind. William took a quiet breath. He did not like the barrier that had come up between them since the disagreement had occurred. Since it happened, he and Elizabeth had not shared any personal conversations or any type of intimacy for that matter. It was beginning to wear on him, but he reminded himself what it was that had brought them to this point.
His mind began to drift to memories before he married Elizabeth. Before they were married, he would dread coming home to an empty house. Georgianna had always been home when he got there, but by the time he would get home, she was always in her room studying or in the music room practicing. Then she had gone away to college, and now no one was at home when he arrived. Most times, he would eat whatever the housekeeper had left him and then retire to his bedroom. This was how William had spent his evenings.
Now it was different. William looked forward to coming home each evening because Elizabeth would be there. When he would come home, the house would be warm and bright. The smell of dinner would be in the air. On evenings that he would come home late, he would find Elizabeth napping on the couch. The scene of domesticity warmed his heart and he was thankful that he had found such happiness.
He held the steering wheel tighter as his mind began to drift to the disagreement they had happened a week ago.
One week ago...
It was late in the evening when he had arrived at home. Dinner was waiting and he soon found Elizabeth napping on the couch waiting for him. He smiled at the sight of Elizabeth sleeping peacefully on the couch.
She was lying on her back and her hair was spread across the throw pillow like spilled molasses. Her face had a tranquil look, and he thought he saw a smile. Apparently she had been reading a book, but it had fallen out of Elizabeth's hands and on to the floor.
William approached Elizabeth quietly and gently sat next to her. He picked up the book and set it on the coffee table with care, so he would not disturb Elizabeth. Then he turned to Elizabeth and lightly touched the strands of hair that were spilled across the pillow. He then proceeded to trace her jaw line lightly. This caused Elizabeth to stir, but she did not awaken. William knew that it would take a great deal more to wake her up. He leaned down and placed a kiss on Elizabeth's cheek. She stirred again, but still did not wake up. William smiled and placed another kiss on her other cheek. Elizabeth was responsive to this kiss. Although there was a small smile creeping on her lips, she did not open her eyes. William noticed the smile and knew that Elizabeth was waiting for more. He leaned down and placed his lips on hers. He meant it to be a brief kiss, but when he leaned down and kissed her, Elizabeth raised her hand and held his face. She responded by kissing him more ardently. Although this was how William woke Elizabeth up whenever he found her on the couch like this, they always acted as if each time was a new encounter.
William began to pull away from Elizabeth, but not before he placed another kiss on her lips. When he did pull away, he observed that Elizabeth's eyes were open now. There was a heightened brightness in her eyes and smile. It caused William to smile back.
"Good evening, Mrs. Darcy." William said as he caressed Elizabeth's jaw line.
Elizabeth smiled at his remark and said, "Good evening, Mr. Darcy." She sat up. "Are you ready for dinner?"
He nodded his assent and they proceeded to the kitchen. When they got there, Elizabeth began reheating the dinner that the housekeeper had left and William took out plates and utensils.
"I hope you're hungry. Mrs. Reynolds outdid herself this time." Elizabeth said as she stirred something in a pot on the stove and then opened the oven and looked in.
"Indeed. I could smell dinner as I walked in the house. He began setting the table in the kitchen. They had a dining room, but it was too formal for just the two of them. They preferred the intimacy of the small table in the kitchen.
They proceeded to tell each other about how each of their days went. Then William was reminded of something that he had to talk to Elizabeth about.
"Before I forget, there is something that I need to discuss with you, something that my accountant brought up." He was bringing glasses to the table.
Elizabeth was tasting what was in the pot. "Oh. What did you want to discuss?"
"It's nothing really. It's just a minor detail that I think can be easily corrected." William opened the refrigerator door and took out a pitcher of water. He proceeded to go put it on the table.
Elizabeth stopped attending to the pot on the stove and turned to William. "Well, what is it?"
William then turned to his wife and walked over to her. He hesitated before he began, "My accountant was going over some records to prepare for taxes and he came across a mistake."
Elizabeth did not say anything, but was still looking at William.
William took this as a cue to continue. "He came across some of your legal documents and it shows that your name is Elizabeth Madeline Bennet."
William looked at Elizabeth to confirm that it was a mistake. Elizabeth did not respond.
William looked at her inquisitively before he said, "It was a mistake. Wasn't it?"
Elizabeth appeared calm, but she was bracing herself inwardly for the onslaught to come. She cleared her throat before she said, "No. It's not a mistake."
William was speechless. He had assumed that Elizabeth would take his name when they were married. He tried to collect himself, but his emotions got the better of him.
"What do you mean it's not a mistake?" He tried to sound calm, but the tone of his voice betrayed heightened emotion.
Elizabeth took a breath before she said, "It's not a mistake. My name is Elizabeth Madeline Bennet."
Before William could respond, Elizabeth continued, "Madeline is from my Aunt Gardiner and Bennet is my maiden name."
"I know that." There was a sound of annoyance in William's voice now. He tried to respond in a more even tone, but there was an edge to his voice. "Why did you keep Bennet?"
Elizabeth tried to keep calm, but was becoming angry that William was questioning her judgment. "I kept it because it was my decision to make."
Before William could respond, Elizabeth continued, "How could you expect me to just abandon my maiden name? I have no brothers to carry on my family's name or cousins for that matter."
"I wish you had consulted me before you made such a decision." William was now rubbing his forehead with his fingers.
Elizabeth became angrier. "I don't understand why I had to consult you. It's my name. It's my decision to make."
William's hand dropped from his forehead and looked at Elizabeth. "Do you realize how this could create problems? Aside from the legal aspects, but socially? Am I suppose to introduce you as Ms. Bennet. And what of our children? Are you going to expect them to go by Darcy-Bennet?"
"What's wrong with Bennet-Darcy?"
"Elizabeth..." William's swollen chest began to deflate as he expelled his ire in one long and drawn breath.
Color had risen in Elizabeth's cheeks. "I'm sorry that you see it as such an inconvenience. I thought you of all people would understand how important it is for me to keep my maiden name, but apparently I was wrong. Am I supposed to just let my family's name be forgotten while yours continues to live on?"
William did not know how to respond. He was not angry at the fact that she kept her maiden name. He was hurt. He felt like she had not completely accepted him as her husband.
"Elizabeth," William's voice was calm, "I did not mean to imply anything in that way." He hesitated before he continued, "I just wish you would have told me what you had intended to do. We could have discussed this in a reasonable manner." He looked at Elizabeth for some kind of response, but saw none.
He became impatient. "I'm your husband."
Elizabeth's face became hard and unreadable. William had never seen her countenance change this way. Then Elizabeth spoke, "I had not realized that when a woman gets married, that she gives up the right to make her own decisions."
William was about to respond, but Elizabeth cut him off. "Some of the reasons I fell in love with you were because of your unselfish and understanding nature." Elizabeth hesitated to fight back tears that were welling up. Then she continued, "If you don't understand why this is important to me then. . ." She looked away and William took a step closer to her, but Elizabeth took a step back.
She looked at William with glazed eyes and said, "Excuse me. I'm suddenly not very hungry. I think I will retire early tonight." Then she turned around and hurried to their bedroom and was gone.
These were the last words Elizabeth had said to William a week ago. Since then he only received civil replies to benign questions, and he ate dinner by himself for that whole week. Elizabeth had retired early each evening.
William almost called out to her, but he was not sure what had just happened. He thought that it was just a mistake that could easily be cleared up. He shook his head as he realized that this was a much more complex issue than he had originally thought. He was feeling a whole spectrum of emotions. A part of his pride was hurt. There had always been generations of Darcys. He could not recall any of his female relatives keeping their maiden name.
Another part of him was hurt because Elizabeth had decided not to accept him completely. They were married. They lived in the same home. But even with all this, they were not one couple, but separate people. He always envisioned that when he did marry one day his wife would be Mrs. Darcy. He did not think it was selfish. To William, it meant that he would be imparting himself to another person. It was his way to show that he had chosen someone to share himself with. This was an extremely personal issue for William because for a long time he believed that it would never happen. That is until he met Elizabeth.
William heard a horn blaring in the distance. He blinked several times and snapped out of his reverie.
"It's a green light, William." Elizabeth's voice was flat.
William cleared his throat and said, "Sorry." He proceeded to step on the gas pedal and he drove on.
The tension in the car was tangible and Georgianna decided to try to relieve some of it. "How much longer until we arrive at the Gardiner's Anniversary Celebration?"
She looked to the couple sitting in front of her for a response. It was quiet. She then noticed that Elizabeth had glanced over at William. He did not look like he was going to answer, so Elizabeth took the trouble of responding.
"It should not be very long. It looks like we're almost there." Elizabeth was looking out the window.
Georgianna tried to keep the conversation going, "Where is the celebration being held?" Georgianna already knew where the big event was being held, but she could not stand the silence that had imposed itself in the car earlier.
"It's being held in the ballroom at the Grand." There was a slight tone of animation in Elizabeth's voice.
Georgianna was encouraged by the tone in her voice and continued, "I think it's amazing when a couple has reached such a landmark in their relationship. It truly gives a person hope that it's possible to find such happiness and love with another person."
"Indeed." Was all that Elizabeth said.
William did not respond.
Georgianna bit her lip. She realized what she said must have hit a sensitive spot for both of them. Whatever falling out William and Elizabeth had, it has something to do with their relationship. Georgianna thought. When she was home two weeks ago, William and Elizabeth had been talking about how much they looked forward to going to this celebration and how much they hoped to have the same luck as the Gardiners. Yet, when she arrived just two days ago to attend the celebration, William and Elizabeth had said nothing about it. In fact, she observed that they hardly spoke to each other.
Just when the silence was beginning to become unbearable, they finally pulled up to the front of the hotel where the celebration was being held. William got out and handed the keys to a valet. Elizabeth and Georgianna were helped out of the car by another attendant.
They walked towards the entrance. Georgianna walked behind them. She noticed that Elizabeth took William's arm, but she did not take it eagerly nor did she seem to be holding it with great strength.
For the couple, this was the first time they had come into physical contact in the last week. William's body tensed up at the touch of Elizabeth's hand on his arm. He had not expected her to take it, but was pleased when she did. Elizabeth had taken his arm out of habit because she did this whenever they went out. Before she realized what she had done, she could not pull her hand away. She did not want to pull her hand away. She missed him. During their engagement and well into their marriage, they had always enjoyed physical contact in varying degrees of intimacy. The week that had just passed was the longest that they had ever gone without any particular type of physical intimacy. Elizabeth did not partake in any because she was still too angry to indulge in such things. William did not because Elizabeth had not seemed very receptive to receiving any attention from him. And now, Elizabeth had taken William's arm. Although it appeared to be only a slight action, it meant a lot to both of them.
As they entered the ballroom, they were greeted with music and a crowd. Apparently most of the guests had already arrived. They soon approached the Gardiners to wish them congratulations.
"Aunt Gardiner, Uncle Gardiner, we would like to give you our warmest regards on this special occasion." Elizabeth then took her Aunt's hand and leaned over to kiss her cheek. She repeated the same action with her Uncle.
William came over to extend his congratulations as well. "Indeed, there are a few people who can truly partake in such happiness and joy." He kissed Mrs. Gardiner on the cheek and shook hands with Mr. Gardiner. Elizabeth could not help feeling stung by his words even though they had not been directed at her. She masked her hurt by maintaining her smile.
Georgianna congratulated the couple, but in a timid voice. Mrs. Gardiner took her hand and gave her a meaningful look before she thanked her. Mr. Gardiner smiled warmly at her.
The Gardiners then proceeded to welcome them and insisted that they join the rest of the celebration. Mrs. Gardiner pointed out to Elizabeth where her family could be found.
Her mother was sitting at a table with her sister Mrs. Phillips and Mary. Her father was over at the bar talking with Charles Bingley. Jane Bingley was talking to Kitty near the table with refreshments, which was on the opposite side of the room. Meanwhile Lydia was talking with a young man.
All three first made their way towards Mrs. Bennet to greet her, and as soon as they finished listening to Mrs. Bennet exclaim over Elizabeth's gown and were able to get away, they went over to greet Mr. Bennet. He was pleased to see his daughter. After a few minutes, Elizabeth and Georgianna left the gentlemen and went to Jane and Kitty.
After they greeted each other, Kitty and Georgianna fell into their own conversation, which left Jane and Elizabeth to talk on their own.
"How are you, Jane?" Elizabeth observed that Jane was glowing and had a tranquil smile on her face.
"I am very well." Jane's gaze was on Charles who was across the room. "I cannot believe that things could be so wonderful." Then she said, "How are you Elizabeth?" Jane was not really looking at her.
Elizabeth took a breath before she said, "Good." Elizabeth then turned her attention to the refreshments on the table.
Jane noticed Elizabeth's short answer, and redirected her attention towards her sister. She took a good look at Elizabeth. It appeared that Elizabeth was surveying the refreshments, but her eyes were not really looking at any of the refreshments which betrayed that her mind was somewhere else.
"Elizabeth, what's the matter?" Jane was always perceptive about Elizabeth's behavior.
"I . . .I . . ." Elizabeth's voice trailed off.
Jane took her sister's arm gently and led her away from the celebration towards a more secluded corner in the ballroom.
Jane gave Elizabeth an encouraging look for her to continue.
"Jane. . . William and I had a disagreement and we have not yet resolved it." Elizabeth looked down at the ground.
Jane smiled at her sister and said, "Elizabeth, I'm sure everything will turn out well."
Elizabeth could not meet her sister's smile. She said, "I'm not so sure, Jane. Our disagreement took place almost a week ago and we have not really talked since." Elizabeth took another breath after she finished her sentence.
Jane hesitated before she said, "I'm sorry. I didn't realize that it was so serious. What was your disagreement about?"
Elizabeth began telling Jane about what had happened. Elizabeth told Jane how William had found out that she kept her maiden name and how angry and upset he seemed to be that she did not consult him about it.
"I could not believe he said that I should have talked to him about it first. Jane, I thought he would understand why I did it." Elizabeth no longer hid her hurt over the situation. Jane proceeded to gently take Elizabeth by the arm again and guided her towards the hallway outside of the ballroom's entrance. There were not as many people there.
Jane decided to proceed with caution, "Why did you decide to do it?" Her voice was calm and gentle.
Elizabeth looked up at her sister with surprise. "Why?" Elizabeth looked at her sister with disbelief.
Jane did not respond and looked at her sister with patience.
Elizabeth continued, "We don't have anyone else to carry on our family name."
Jane remained silent and continued to observe her sister.
"We have no brothers or male cousins who can carry on the Bennet name."
Jane continued with her silence.
"I am very proud to be a Bennet." Elizabeth was becoming unnerved at Jane's silence.
"How could William ask me to give that up?" Elizabeth looked at Jane pleadingly for a response.
Finally Jane said, "Dear Elizabeth, you never gave him the chance to say anything."
Elizabeth was shocked by Jane's reproach. "Jane, it was my decision to make. It was my choice. This affects me, not him."
Jane was going to say something, but Elizabeth cut her off.
"I'm the one who looses something in this, not him. I've been a Bennet my entire life. How could I just throw that all away? I can't. The only change for William is that he has someone that is legally his partner in life." The emotions Elizabeth had suppressed for the whole week were now rising in her voice. "For me, it's like saying good bye to a part of myself forever. As if that part never existed. How could I accept that?"
"It is difficult indeed." Jane looked in the ballroom and noticed that though William was standing with Charles and Mr. Bennet at the bar, his eyes were trained on her and Elizabeth.
Jane turned to Elizabeth and said, "Elizabeth, I can't tell you what to do. I can only share with you my own experience."
It was Elizabeth's turn to be silent.
Jane continued, "I went going through some of the same feelings as you about keeping my maiden name."
Elizabeth remained silent. She did not believe that Jane could have had such conflicting emotions as she did now.
"You are giving up a part of yourself when you marry someone. But also consider, the person you are marrying is giving up a part of themselves as well."
Elizabeth looked at her sister inquisitively.
"I loved being a Bennet too. That's an important part of who I am. But, I also had to come to terms with the fact that I've already lived that part of my life." Jane gave her sister a meaningful look.
Elizabeth silently thought about what Jane was telling her.
Jane took this as a cue to continue, "When I said that the person you are marrying is giving up a part of themselves earlier, what I meant was they are giving up a part of their life to share with you. I know this sounds naive, maybe even too romantic, but knowing that I was embarking on a new life with Charles gave me a new perspective on what it meant to take his name."
Elizabeth thoughts were racing. The thought that William was giving a part of himself to her had never crossed her mind. She always perceived that William was the one that brought something substantial to the marriage. She never doubted that he loved her, but he had wealth and status to bring to their relationship. All Elizabeth had was herself, which included her personality, her wit, and her love and affection for William. The possibility that taking William's name was more than just an act to elevate her social status was something that Elizabeth had not considered. She was not sure of what to make out of this. She looked at Jane to continue.
"Marriage is a bond shared by two people who wish to create a life together. Although taking on a husband's name can be a trivial issue for some people, for me, it acts as an announcement of a couple's commitment to everyone else. It signifies that I have chosen to share a new life with Charles."
Elizabeth was stunned. Jane had shown her another way to look at this disagreement. William's words from a week ago echoed in her mind, I'm your husband. At the time she took his words to imply that he was the dominant one in the relationship, but now they were taking on a new meaning. William was a part of her. She was a part of him. Before she could reflect further on this, she realized that Jane had brought her back into the ballroom. Everyone was gathering around for a speech that was to be given by Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner's son James.
Mr. Bennet went to join Mrs. Bennet at the table. Charles made his way across the room to be with Jane. William followed hesitantly behind Charles. He had not said anything to either gentlemen, but Mr. Bennet and Charles both got the impression that something was weighing heavily on William's mind. William nursed his drink quietly and hardly spoke. He also seemed distracted because he was not paying attention to the conversation very well. Neither gentlemen felt comfortable asking William about personal issues at a party, so they had all stayed on safe topics to discuss.
Charles stood next to Jane and had put his hand on the small of her back. Elizabeth positioned herself behind them. William stood a foot a way from Elizabeth. They both observed Charles' easy manner in taking Jane. The sight of such intimacy made them shift in their positions. Neither ventured to do anything in the same manner as Charles and Jane.
When everyone had been gathered, a young man, no older than twenty, stood up at the front of the ballroom with a microphone. Everyone's attention focused on the young man.
"Good evening. For those of you whom I have not had the pleasure of meeting yet, I'm James Gardiner." He paused as he looked at his parents Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner and his elder sisters. They all gave him encouraging looks to continue.
"This is a very special evening for my parents James and Madeline Gardiner." Everyone applauded when the honored coupled was mentioned.
Young James continued his speech, but it was not heard by two of the members of the audience. These two were distracted by the presence of the other.
William, who was standing a foot behind Elizabeth, was distracted by her perfume. He did not know why he had not noticed it earlier in the car, but it was more apparent now with her standing so close. He let his eyes wander to her hair. Her dark, curly hair was swept up on the crown of her head. There were a few strands that were loose and gently laying on the nape of her neck. He took a breath as he realized that it had been a week since he saw her neck exposed. Although Elizabeth's dress had straps, they were off the shoulder. Elizabeth had not worn a necklace which emphasized the bareness of her skin and décolleté even more. William tried to regulate his breathing. He tried to focus on the speech being given, but could not. William's eyes then wandered further down her silhouette and admired the way her dress hugged her waistline. William swallowed and blinked several times as if he was trying to blink away the image of Elizabeth's figure. He could not believe that it had been a week since he last touched her.
Elizabeth, who was standing in front of William and could not see him, was not oblivious to William's presence. She knew him well enough to know that he was taking her in with his eyes. She could feel his eyes on her skin. Elizabeth tried to steady her breath when she remembered how he would do this when they were dating. At the time, it made her uncomfortable to be scrutinized in such a manner. Then as their relationship progressed and she began to understand him better, she learned the feelings his eyes were conveying. She felt her skin begin to tingle. The way he looked at her skin was the same as if his lips were on it. Indeed, those were the actions his eyes conveyed. Then she felt his breath on her neck. It was brief and soft, but it affected her greatly. Her hand clutched the table for support, as she was slightly dizzy. Elizabeth tried focusing her attention on what James was saying, but could not. William's presence was overpowering her thoughts.
". . . and to conclude, on behalf of my parents, they would like to thank you all for sharing with them a most special night. They are overwhelmed by your support and kindness by attending this celebration." Young James thanked the crowd again and bowed.
Elizabeth and William were startled by the applause and absently began applauding as well.
After the applause had died down, Young James continued, "Now with great pleasure I would like to introduce my mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. They are going to honor us with the first dance of the evening. They will be dancing to the song As Time Goes By- the same song they first danced to on their wedding night twenty-five years ago."
Mr. Gardiner led his wife to the center of the dance floor. The lights dimmed and the couple stood face to face. All eyes were on them. When the music started, Mr. Gardiner took one of Mrs. Gardiner's hands in his and placed his other hand at her waist. Mrs. Gardiner's free hand was on Mr. Gardiner's shoulder. Although it looked as if the couple were dancing formally, the looks they gave each other revealed that the couple shared a unique intimacy. To them, they were the only two people in the room. Elizabeth and William were enchanted by the couple before them on the dance floor.
First there was the sound of a singular violin, then several more joined in to create a dramatic chorus. Then the nostalgic sound of a big band orchestra had filled the room. The DJ was playing the Jimmy Durante version of As Time Goes By.
The couple rather than swaying to the music, actually danced to it. It did not appear choreographed or practiced. In fact, it looked natural. Mrs. Gardiner's smile was radiant as Mr. Gardiner proceeded to give her a turn around the floor.
The smiles on Elizabeth's and William's faces were the first genuine smiles they had had all week. They were both touched by the apparent love and strength that existed in the couple's marriage. Elizabeth's thoughts began to digress.
As she looked at her aunt and uncle, she realized how much she admired their relationship. Her memories carried her back to her childhood when she would stay with them from time to time. The first time she had stayed with them, she was surprised by how much affection existed between them. Indeed her parents never showed such open displays of affection. Mr. Gardiner never teased Mrs. Gardiner the way her father would tease her mother. There were times when she observed that if they had a disagreement, they would discuss it calmly and never lash out at each other. Even the way her uncle would address her aunt at times, there was no mistake about the warmth of his feelings. Mrs. Gardiner would show her affection through meaningful looks and the way she addressed her uncle, always in a calm, but loving way. As Elizabeth grew older, and witnessed her uncle and aunt start their own family, she secretly hoped that she would find such happiness for herself. Elizabeth suddenly felt a sharp pang in her chest. She wanted something like that for herself.
Woman needs man, and man must have his mate, that no one can deny...
It was only one line from As Time Goes By, but it clung to Elizabeth's mind. Then Jane's words began to resurface, But, I also had to come to terms with the fact that I've already lived that part of my life. Elizabeth began to understand Jane's meaning. She was no longer a single person. Elizabeth began to feel a weight gently leaving her shoulders. It was as if a part of her was leaving. She looked at her aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. They were two people, joined in matrimonial union, but it was sustained by a faithful love and devotion for each other.
. . . they are giving up a part of their life to share with you. Jane's words haunted Elizabeth. She could not take her eyes off the Gardiners. The Gardiners, she repeated to herself. It sounded so right. Two people as one. A family as one. She thought. Just as quickly as the weight had been lifted off her shoulders, a realization hit her. It was a realization about her life now, in the present and in the future. Elizabeth was ready. She wanted to experience all those things that she saw in the Gardiners. Elizabeth breathed deeply. She was ready to start her new life as Elizabeth Darcy.
Elizabeth was unaware that the Gardiners had already finished their dance a few moments ago. She was standing looking at the couple walking away from the dance floor, but she was still deep in thought. William had been observing her the whole time, wondering what she was thinking and feeling. She had worn numerous expressions throughout the whole of the Gardiner's dance. At times, William wanted to take her hand and show her that he was thinking of her, but the seriousness of her demeanor told him to reconsider. William believed that Elizabeth needed to sort out whatever she was thinking without his interference. The DJ began to play more music. A distant voice was heard.
In the way you want me...
It startled Elizabeth out of her reflection. It also caught William off guard. Both were entranced by the music because it echoed their thoughts. Then a more prominent voice was heard.
You've got a way with me.
Somehow you got me to believe.
Elizabeth bowed her head down. The meaning of the words had struck her. She wanted to be with William, but she did not how. The words she had exchanged with William a week ago were weighing heavily in her mind. She reproached herself for being so blind to what she already had.
William stepped closer to Elizabeth.
In everything that I could be,
I gotta say, you really got a way...
Elizabeth did not have the courage to look up, but her head was slightly tilted in William's direction. How do I tell him? How do I tell him I'm ready now? Elizabeth thought.
William was still behind her, but he was close enough now that he could see the contours of her jaw line. The distant voice was heard again.
In the way you want me
William reached out for a strand of Elizabeth's hair and gently tucked it behind her ear. He let his fingertips linger on her neck as his hand came down. He had forgotten how soft her skin was and bit his lip as he touched it.
Elizabeth took a deep breath as she felt William's fingertips on her neck. She could not remember the last time he touched her like that. The more prominent voice was heard now.
You got a way it seems
you gave me faith to find my dreams
William took a step next to Elizabeth. The words rung true for both, but more so for William. For him, Elizabeth was everything he had hoped and dreamed for in his life. The words had drawn him nearer to her. They were perpendicular to each other. Elizabeth was still looking down, but facing the dance floor. She was unsure how to convey how sorry she was about what she had said a week ago. William was on her right. She felt his gaze on her.
you'll never know just what that means
Can't you see, you got a way with me.
As the last words were sung, Elizabeth could not resist William's gaze anymore and slowly looked up at William.
William was speechless when Elizabeth looked at him. She was unaware how much her eyes disarmed him. He wanted to tell her how much she brought meaning to his life and how much he had missed her this last week. He could not find the words and could only look at her.
When their eyes met, the only thing they were aware of was each other and the music at that moment . Elizabeth braced herself for what she saw in William's eyes. He had not said anything, but the look in his eyes spoke volumes. As Elizabeth gazed into William's eyes, she felt as if she was being gently enveloped by his warm affection which quickened her pulse. She had denied herself of this look all week.
It's in the way you want me.
It's in the way you hold me.
Elizabeth felt her hand being taken by William's. He was pleased that she did not resist. Then he did only a man like William could do in this type of situation. He squeezed her hand gently. The gentle pressure on Elizabeth's hand made her breathing unsteady. Elizabeth squeezed back. Has he forgiven me? She wondered. William looked up to see that Elizabeth was looking at him intently. His heart beat fiercely.
The way you show me just what love's made of...
It's in the way we make love.
Elizabeth was looking at William with new eyes. Something's changed. She thought. She no longer saw him as William Darcy the person that she married. He appeared to be more than just that. She felt pressure rising in her throat as she came to another realization. "This is my husband, my partner, my best friend, now and forever." She thought. Then she looked deeply into his eyes and saw herself in them.
In the way you want me...
Elizabeth was physically drawn to William. The anger and frustration she was feeling earlier in the evening were now a distant memory.
William had her hand in his and was gently pulling her to him. He noted a look of recognition on Elizabeth's face. Does she understand now? William wondered.
You've got a way with words.
You get me smiling even when it hurts.
William's presence was stirring. She had forgotten how his presence could excite her. She was ready to share herself completely with William.
William reached out for Elizabeth's face. He lightly touched her cheek with his fingertips. He swallowed when he realized how much it pleased him to be able to touch her again.
There's no way to mention what your look is worth.
I can't believe the way you get through to me.
Elizabeth closed her eyes and leaned her face into his hand. Elizabeth knew that William was a man of action, and she knew that in order for her to convey the same emotions William was conveying through his eyes, she would have to show it through her actions too.
William was affected by her action. Am I that transparent? It's as if she's reading my thoughts. William thought. He missed her more than he admitted to himself. His other hand found its way onto the small of her back.
It's in the way you want me.
It's in the way you hold me.
Elizabeth opened her eyes. William's hand was still cupping her face. Elizabeth reached for William's hair and gently ran her fingers through it. As her hand came down, she grazed her fingers on his neck and then rested it on his shoulder. William's breath became ragged at Elizabeth's touch and soft caresses. He swore to himself that he would never take Elizabeth's affections for granted again.
The way you show me just what love's made of...
Its in the way we make love.
William and Elizabeth were looking at each other. William perceived a faint blush in Elizabeth's cheeks after the reference in the song the way we make love was made. Her eyelashes fluttered several times before she looked down. William smiled and lifted her chin to meet his gaze. Elizabeth looked up at him shyly and smiled. William was having a difficult time restraining his feelings. The actions that were transpiring at the moment were more than William expected to experience this evening.
Oh how I adore you.
Like no one before you.
William licked his lips as he looked at Elizabeth. Elizabeth knew that look and felt pressure rising in her chest in anticipation for what was to happen. William gently pulled her into his arms and Elizabeth leaned into him for support.
I love you just the way you are.
William took Elizabeth's face in both of his hands and placed a soft kiss on the apple of her cheek.
It's in the way you want me.
Oh it's in the way you hold me.
One of William's hands slipped around her waist. Elizabeth's hands were on William's shoulder. William proceeded to place another soft kiss on the other side of her face.
The way you show me just what love's made of...
Its in the way we make love.
This time when William looked at her, Elizabeth did not look away, but her breathing was definitely unsteady. She looked at him directly and it increased his ardor. He was now embracing her and their faces were inches apart. His breathing had also become unsteady.
Its just the way you love... **
Before the song ended, William gently lifted Elizabeth's face towards his. When he looked into her eyes, he was pleased to see himself in them. William then leaned in and kissed Elizabeth. Elizabeth responded by kissing him back. William's arms were soon around Elizabeth and Elizabeth's hands were on William's face. It had been a whole week since they kissed each other. (The last time was when she was asleep on the couch that evening.) The softness of the other's lips and the feelings that the other evoked through touch were slowly reminding them of the passion and love they felt for each other. This was how the couple appeared after the song had ended. Before their kissing became more ardent, William gently, but reluctantly loosened his embrace and pulled away from Elizabeth. Elizabeth was somewhat annoyed by this, but quickly remembered where they were and blushed at their open and affectionate display.
They stood apart, regarding each other silently for a moment. The DJ started playing another song, but they did not hear it. They were becoming aware of their surroundings. It was dark and they hoped no one had noticed them. Each of them was trying to collect themselves and thinking of something to say. They had not said anything the entire time and found that they were at a loss for words when they could no longer use actions to convey their feelings in such a public place.
They started at the same time.
"Please continue." William said shyly to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth smiled and arched one of her eyebrows, "How soon can your accountant fix the mistake?"
William could hardly contain himself, but managed to appear calm when he said, "As soon as possible if necessary." He hesitated before he continued, "Are you sure?"
Elizabeth nodded.
William was not convinced. "Elizabeth, I know how important your family is to you and how much this means to-"
Elizabeth's lips stopped William's words. When Elizabeth pulled away, William's expression was a mixture of surprise and disbelief. Then a small smile crept across his lips.
Elizabeth's playful look disappeared and she looked intently at William, "Nothing could make me more happy or proud to be known as Elizabeth Darcy."
The emphasis on Darcy was not lost on William. His breathing grew unsteady again and he took Elizabeth's hand in his. He gave her a meaningful look before he placed a soft, but brief kiss on her lips. They stood there looking at each other for a moment until Jane approached them.
"Georgianna would like to stay later with Kitty. Charles and I would be more than happy to bring Georgianna home later." Jane had been observing the couple the entire time. She was pleased to see that things had improved. But, she also realized that since the couple had not been talking to each other for a week, there were probably other things that they had not been doing for a week, and so she thought they would need some privacy now that things seemed to be resolved.
William and Elizabeth were looking at each other. Jane thought that they probably had not heard her until Elizabeth spoke up.
"Oh." She looked at Jane, then at William. Then she said, "We would appreciate that very much." She gave William a playful smile.
The realization of Jane's offer to bring Georgianna home later and the playful smile on Elizabeth's lips made William eager with anticipation at the possibility that their week long fasting from each other was soon at an end.
William did not take his eyes off Elizabeth as he said, "It seems that Mrs. Darcy and I are retiring early for the evening."
Elizabeth blushed and turned to Jane and said, "Thank you for all that you've done, Jane." Her words carried more meaning than they conveyed and Jane understood.
William was already leading her away, as Elizabeth said over her shoulder, "Give our regards to the Gardiners, and make our excuses for us." They were out the door before Jane had a chance to say anything.
Charles came over and squeezed Jane's shoulder. She looked at him and smiled. She looked back at the entrance that William and Elizabeth had just passed through. She knew their aunt would not be upset at Elizabeth's early departure and failure to say good-bye once she heard the whole story of Elizabeth's and William's disagreement and its resolution. A smile spread across Jane's face. Jane felt Charles pulling her to the dance floor and allowed herself to be led away.
If the valet, attendants, and other motorists knew the state of mind that Mr. and Mrs. Darcy were in and how it got there, they would have been more understanding of their inattentiveness to their surroundings. Ever since they had walked out of the ballroom, they had not taken their eyes off each other. The valet and the attendants thought it strange that they had to ask William repeatedly for his claim ticket. It was even stranger to them that when William had got in his car, he almost drove away before the attendant had closed the door.
On the street, William had a hard time concentrating on driving because he kept trying to look at Elizabeth. One motorist even shouted at him for nearly running into the other motorist's car. Elizabeth thought William's eagerness was amusing.
"You had better start paying more attention to driving or else we will not be able to-" Elizabeth, embarrassed by what she had almost said aloud, did not finish her sentence.
William understood her meaning and became more attentive to driving.
It is safe to say that the couple, no. One can assume that they, no wait. This will not do.
When Mr. and Mrs. Darcy arrived home, they were hardly through the door before they began making up for lost time. There were numerous passionate kisses exchanged, neglected places that were touched, and eventually a trail of clothes was strewn about the floor that led to the bedroom. (William had the foresight afterwards to go and pick them up before Georgianna was brought home.)
They did not discuss the event that had transpired a week ago any further. They did not need to. They both had come to an understanding at the Gardiner's celebration. That is not to say that the couple did not have any other disagreements, in fact they would have numerous disagreements ranging from the trivial to the serious. But, what this experience taught them was that no matter how serious the disagreement, or how angry the other person was, or how much each person believed they were correct, they were always comforted with the certainty and strength of the other's love and devotion for them.