Beginning, Section II
Jump to new as of December 21, 2001
Jump to new as of December 26, 2001
The hospital
"Leave me alone Will. I don't want to see you. I hate you, I hate you, I hate you."
"Lizzy, please . . ."
"I'll be fine Will, just go away. Aaaaaahhhhhh!" Lizzy shrieked as she grabbed Darcy's hand.
"Excuse me sir, are you her husband?" a nurse asked as they wheeled Lizzy to the delivery room.
"No, he is not my husband. I hate him. I hate you Will!"
"I'm sorry sir, only family is allowed in there."
"But I'm the father of that child. I have a right to be in there with her," Darcy pushed.
"Is that true ma'am? Is he the father?"
"Damn you, Will. Yes he is," Lizzy groaned. She knew that she couldn't let Will not be there to see the birth of his twins.
Throughout the whole labor, Darcy was by her side, holding her hand and encouraging her. Occasionally he would kiss her hand. Lizzy, on the other hand, was not having the time of her life. She was in pain and William Darcy was there with her. And there was nothing she could do about it. Dr. Murray assured Darcy that it was normal for a woman to act this way because of the situation.
"Yeah, if you only knew what had just happened back home, then you would know that this was not a normal situation. I should have never said . . ." Darcy's thoughts were interrupted by Dr. Murray.
"Okay, Elizabeth. On the count of three, I'm going to need you to give one big push. I can see the baby's head. Are you ready? Okay then, one, two, three!"
Lizzy pushed as hard as she could. Seeing the agony on her face made Darcy feel worse than he already was. Suddenly, he heard a cry of a baby.
"Congratulations Mr. Darcy, you have a fine and healthy baby girl," Dr. Murray congratulated.
Darcy was about to move over to where the nurses were taking his little girl when he heard Lizzy call for him.
"William, I'm not done," Lizzy moaned as she stretched her hand out towards him.
Darcy took her hand in his and gave her a questioning look.
"Hold on there Mr. Darcy. I know you're excited to see your daughter, but you have one more on the way," Dr. Murray explained to him.
"One more? What are you talking about?"
"Twins," Lizzy whispered.
"Twins?"
"Lizzy nodded. "Twins."
"Okay," Dr. Murray said breaking the moment, "Here we go again. I know you're tired, but you can do this. One giant push. On three. One, two, three."
"No, give her to her father."
"What, why me? You're her mother," Darcy argued nervously.
"Yeah, and you're her daddy," Lizzy insisted.
Darcy knew that he couldn't fight with her. The nurse gently placed his baby girl in his arms, and he watched as she squirmed in his arms. She was beautiful. She had her mother's eyes which made him smile in wonder. Lizzy was amused by the picture in front of her. It seemed perfect. All thought of what had occurred the night before had faded upon the birth of the twins. Darcy moved over to Lizzy and handed her the baby so he could receive his other daughter. She also had her mother's chocolate brown eyes.
"Why didn't you tell me that you were pregnant with twins?" Darcy whispered as he sat on the bad next to his new family. "You know I hate surprises."
"I wanted it to be a secret. I thought that it would be neat since this whole affair was a surprise. I guess I wanted everything to be a surprise for you."
"What about the furniture and all the baby things. We only bought enough for one baby."
"That's what you think," Lizzy smiled. "What you don't know is that when I would go out with Jane, we would buy extra baby things: diapers, clothes, you name it. As for the furniture, we took care of that as well. Everything is being kept at Jane's place.
"What about everything that we already bought?"
"I'm giving that to Jane for the future."
"I can't believe you," Darcy smiled as he handed his youngest daughter back to Lizzy. She looked like an angel holding his . . . their daughters. "What are you going to name them?"
"Camryn and Tiana. And as father of the girls, you have the privilege of giving them their middle name."
Darcy thought for a moment.
"Don't think to hard," Lizzy teased.
"I know. I have the perfect names for the girls. Our girls," he smiled. "Camryn Jace Darcy and Tiana Meka Darcy."
"What kind of middle names are those?" a baffled Lizzy asked.
"They're special middle names given by their father in honor of their mother. Jace, which is short for Jacinda, means 'beautiful' in Greek, and Meka means 'eyes' in Hawaiian," Darcy said while holding the tiny hands of his daughters who were now both peacefully sleeping.
"Beautiful eyes," Lizzy whispered.
"Uh-huh. Beautiful eyes," Darcy said while he stared deep in her eyes. They seemed to dance and glow more than usual. "Um, I better go tell your sisters and my sister that you're fine. I'll be back."
Darcy quickly gave her a small peck on the cheek before heading out to the waiting room. He came in to find Jane asleep in Bing's arm, and Kit and Georgiana spread out on the couches. He didn't want to wake them up, but he knew that he had to.
"Bing . . . Bing. Bing wake up," Darcy spoke softly.
"Darcy? What do you want?"
"They're here. The babies are here."
"Uh-huh. That's nice. Now go back to sleep," Bingley muttered before he fell back asleep.
Bingley was hopeless, so Darcy woke Jane up next. Fortunately for him, he had better luck. She actually woke up. Georgiana threw her pillow at her brother and Kit told him to go away. Seeing that nobody else wanted to wake up, Darcy and Jane headed back to Lizzy's room to find her almost asleep. After Jane got to hold the girls, they were taken away. Seeing that her sister was exhausted, Jane told her to get some much-needed rest.
"William. I'm going down to the cafeteria to get some food and coffee. Would you like something?"
"Sure. Some coffee and maybe a couple of croissants. Thanks."
When Jane came back, she found Darcy asleep in the chair next to Lizzy's bed with his head on her bed and his hand holding her hand. Jane really wished that they could work something out. She thought that they would be a very perfect and happy couple. She could tell that Darcy was very much in love with her sister. If Lizzy could only see that.
"Well, we're finally home," Darcy said as he opened the car door for Lizzy before opening the back door and handing one of the twins in the car seat over to Lizzy and taking the other one for himself. As soon as he closed the door, Georgiana and Kit came bounding out the door followed by Mrs. Reynolds and the Bingley's. After receiving hugs, the whole group headed inside. Once inside, the girls were passed around between their aunts, uncle, and Mrs. Reynolds who was bubbling with happiness over the twins.
"Lizzy, I can't believe that you kept the twins a secret from all of us," Kitty said while rocking Tiana.
"Well, I couldn't risk it seeping out and letting Will find out," Lizzy smiled at Will. She had been so caught up in the birth of her girls that she had almost practically forgotten the fact that just a few days ago Darcy had proposed to her. It almost seemed like it never happened.
"So Darce, my man. What's with the middle names? Lizzy told me that you were the one that named them."
"Yeah, Will! I heard they mean something," Darcy's sister questioned.
"Put them together, they mean 'beautiful eyes' just like their mother and they have," Darcy replied.
"I'll get the doorbell," Jane offered as they were interrupted by the sound. "Richard Fitzwilliam what are you doing here?"
"Good morning Mrs. Bingley. I couldn't miss out on seeing Kit and my nieces, now could I?"
"Of course not, come in. Look who's here everybody! It's Colonel Fitzwilliam."
When Richard had come to pick Kitty up for a date one time, he was surprised to find out that Lizzy had moved out. He was even more surprised when he heard the reason why. Kit had told him that they were going to be an aunt and an uncle in December. They confused him because they weren't even married. Kit explained to him that his cousin was the father of Lizzy's baby. Richard was in fact delighted to have another addition to the Darcy/Fitzwilliam family. A few minutes later, the doorbell rang again.
"I'll get it again," Jane said. When she opened the door, there stood an orange pleather-clad Caroline Bingley
"Why Jane, your house keeper told me that you were, and I just had to come and visit since I haven't seen Willlllliam in ages," Caroline's voice rang throughout the house. "Where is he?" she asked as she pushed her way past Jane.
Darcy had a worried look on his face, but then he saw that Lizzy was smiling. He knew exactly what she was thinking: Caroline was going to freak out when she found out that he and Lizzy just had twins.
"Why, Eliza dahling, what brings you here? Oh how cute, Catherine Bennett and Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam with twins. Charming," Caroline sarcastically said. She was too busy glaring at Lizzy that she didn't notice the couple trying to hold their laughter that was directed at her.
"As a matter of fact Caroline, I live here." Lizzy said as she stood up and took Tiana from Kit and Darcy took Camryn from Richard.
Upon hearing those words, Caroline went pale. There was no way that . . . that inferior girl lived in this house. And there was no way that those twins were hers and Darcy's. It couldn't be possible.
"And as a matter of fact, these two lovely girls are not Kit and Richard's. They're mine and Lizzy's."
This caused Caroline to turn even more deathly pale. She felt like throwing up. She slowly made her way over to a nearby chair to sit down. Seeing that everyone looked at her, she claimed that she was feeling a little sick because she didn't have any breakfast. Talk about shock of her life. The rest of the day, nobody paid Caroline much attention. All attention had been focused on the twins or their parents. By that night, everyone was gone and the couple was exhausted.
"Aaaahhh," Darcy sighed as he flopped himself down on the couch after Kit and Georgiana left. "Welcome to the world of father-hood."
The cries of the twins awoke him from his moment of bliss. Darcy raced upstairs to fine both the twins crying. He had the unhappy pleasure of changing one of them while Lizzy fed the other. To make matters easier for themselves, Darcy insisted that Lizzy stay in the master bedroom since it was very big and spacious. That way, the cribs could be in the same room as the both of them. He also insisted that she stay in his bed while he slept on the small couch's pullout bed in the room. Lizzy didn't like the idea of taking his bed or sleeping in his bed as a matter of fact, but he wouldn't have it any other way. She didn't want to fight, and she knew that even if she did, she wouldn't get anywhere. It was nothing permanent. It was just for the time being until the situation could be resolved on or until the girls were old enough to sleep in their own room.
After a night of awkwardness of sleeping in the same room, both Lizzy and Darcy were able to fall asleep. That was until of course the girls started to cry. Knowing that Lizzy was still extremely exhausted, a plaid pajama pant-clad and tank top-wearing Darcy groggily stood up and dragged himself over to the cribs to change their diapers once again. He had a hard time trying to cradle the both of them in each arm and rock them, but he eventually got the hang of it. Once he had finally put the both of them back to sleep, he went back to bed. Unfortunately [or maybe fortunate =) ] for him, he was so out of it, he didn't realize that he got back into his own bed instead of the couch. It was just automatic.
For the rest of the night, the girls behaved properly and didn't wake their parents who were both sound asleep and getting a much-needed rest.
Morning
Light streamed through the window. It hit Darcy square on the face which made him squirm a little and turn his head away, resting it right against Lizzy's forehead. As it turned out, Lizzy had rolled over and was lying on top of Darcy's right arm with her arm resting on his chest. Darcy's free hand was holding onto her arm. Both were completely oblivious to the fact that they were in the same bed and sleeping with each other. The sound of the girls crying woke both of their parents up.
"They're crying again," Darcy sleepily groaned.
"I know. I think we should take care of them," Lizzy groaned back, still adjusting to parenthood.
"Mmm-hmm," he mumbled back.
Neither one of them moved, still oblivious to the fact that they were in bed together. All of a sudden, it hit them. They both moved away just a bit and stared at each other wide-eyed.
"Oh my word, I am so sorry. I'm terribly sorry," Darcy said as he backed away. Unfortunately, he didn't know he was at the edge of the bed and fell off, hitting his head on the nightstand and dragging the sheets with him.
"Ow! Damn!"
"Are you alright?"
"Yes, I'm fine. Lizzy, I am terribly sorry. I . . . please don't get the wrong impression," Darcy said as he sat up rubbing the back of his head and waving his other had at her. "I must have made my way back to the bed after I changed their diapers last night. I must have been so tired and out of it. Honest. I apologize. I would never take advantage of you or anything like that. Forgive me."
Lizzy could tell from Darcy's facial expression and tone of voice that he himself was more mortified and embarrassed about the whole situation than she was.
"It's alright. I forgive you," Lizzy replied awkwardly, still a little overwhelmed by the situation. It felt so right, yet so wrong. "Come on," she said as she helped him off the floor, "help me with the girls."
That whole morning was spent in silence. That was until Mr. and Mrs. Bennett, and Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner arrived.
"Lizzy? Where are you? I want to see my grandchild," Mrs. Bennett screeched as soon as she entered the house.
"Fanny, not so loud. They're probably sleeping," her husband said.
Mrs. Reynolds showed the two couples to the living room where Lizzy was holding a wide-awake Camryn.
"Oh, there's my precious granddaughter," Mrs. Bennett cooed before screeching a second time. "And where's the father? He should be here waiting on you hand and foot."
"Mother, Will's in the kitchen getting me some food."
"Well, I better make sure he's getting you the proper food. I don't want you keeping all that extra weight," Mrs. Bennett said as she headed towards the kitchen.
"Papa, Uncle Ed, and Aunt Maddy, I would like you to meet Camryn Jace Darcy."
"She's so pretty and precious," her aunt replied as she and her husband took the baby from Lizzy.
Nobody but Mr. Bennett knew that Lizzy had twins. She wanted it to be a surprise. Mr. Bennett gave Lizzy a questioning look as to where the other baby was. Catching his look, Lizzy mouth the word "Will."
Upon entering the kitchen, Mrs. Bennett began to rant and rave about what healthy food Lizzy should be eating. Darcy, whose back was to her, just rolled his eyes.
"Mrs. Bennett, please keep your voice down, the baby's sleeping."
"Sleeping? Who said anything about sleeping? I just saw my granddaughter and she is wide-awake. There is no need for me to keep my voice down," Mrs. Bennett screeched once again.
Awaken by Mrs. Bennett's loud voice, Tiana began to cry out loud.
"What is that? What is that sound," Mrs. Bennett demanded.
Finally Darcy turned around rocking Tiana, and Mrs. Bennett caught her first glimpse of her other granddaughter and fainted.
"Mrs. Bennett, are you alright? Mrs. Bennett wake up. Lizzy!"
Lizzy, thinking that her mother was being a nuisance, quickly made her way to kitchen to find her mother on the floor, and a panicked Darcy trying to wake up Mrs. Bennett and silence Tiana at the same time. Darcy handed her the baby and picked up Mrs. Bennett and brought her out to the living room. Mr. Bennett and the Gardiners became worried, but sighed in relief once Mrs. Bennett was coming around. That's when they noticed that Lizzy was carrying another baby.
"What's this?" Mrs. Gardiner asked.
"Mrs. Gardiner, this is our other daughter, Tiana Meka Darcy."
"Other daughter? You mean to tell us that Camryn has a twin? They're twins?" Mr. Gardiner happily questioned.
"Lizzy, don't you ever conceal anything like this from me again, do you hear. I nearly had a heart attack, and that will be the death of me. You know my nerves can't handle surprises," Mrs. Bennett wailed. "Oh, but two instead of one granddaughter. Ooooo, and what lucky girls so have such parents as you two, not to mention one so well-off in society."
This comment caused Lizzy's eyes to widen in horror. Her mother did not just say that to Darcy's face. She was utterly and completely mortified. That night, when everyone was gone and the two were left, she decided to apologize.
"Will, I am terribly sorry for what my mother said earlier today. She had to no right to say that."
"No need to apologize, Lizzy. It's alright."
"No it's not alright. It's . . . it's embarrassing. I can't believe my mother," an exasperated Lizzy explained.
"Lizzy, what your mother said does not bother me. I have learned to ignore comments like that, especially coming from your mother. Besides, I've decided to take it as a compliment for our girls. I'm sure your mother just wants what's best for you and her granddaughters."
"Now you're starting to sound like Jane," Lizzy smiled.
"I just wish she didn't talk so loud. My head still hurts."
Both Lizzy and Darcy were enjoying one of their rare moments of silence. Both girls had just fallen asleep. They were in a much-needed state of rest since they spent the last few nights pretty much up the whole time. They wished rather than hoped that their daughters would sleep the whole night like they did the first night that they came home. Wishful thinking it was. Mrs. Reynolds said that if the babies cried, that she would take care of them. She told Lizzy and Darcy to get some much-needed rest. Lizzy opted to take some pictures outside since it had been a while since she had last touched her camera. Mrs. Reynolds decided to accompany her out there. That way, Lizzy could watch keep an eye on them as well. Darcy decided to catch up on some reading but fell asleep on the couch in the living room. About an hour or so after Darcy fell asleep, he was awakened by the doorbell and heavy pounding on the door.
"Huh? What?" a groggy and obviously annoyed Darcy said as he rolled of the couch, his hair all over the place. Well, it wasn't in any place to start with.
Darcy opened the door and was astonished to see his Aunt Catherine de Bourgh standing in front of the door. Before he could ask her why she was here, she pushed her way past him and answered is unasked question.
"William Jamieson Darcy! What is the meaning of this?" she asked as she waved a newspaper in his face. "I come home from vacation and what do I find? I find an envelope containing a newspaper announcing the birth of your twin daughters. Not only that, but you are not married and the mother of your children is in a class beneath ours. Explain yourself," her voice bellowed.
"Aunt Catherine. I'm surprised to see you. "
"Surprised indeed. I am the one surprised. Look at you. Your hair is a mess. What have you to say for yourself?" she asked as she sat herself down in a chair. "Gallivanting off with this Elizabeth Bennett."
"For your information, I was not gallivanting off with her, as you put it. We were both drunk and we didn't know what was happening."
"So, this was all a mistake then."
"Yes, a mistake."
"You know you have utterly and completely destroyed all your chances of marrying."
"I never had any intentions in marrying one of your friend's daughters."
"And why not? They're perfectly fine rich girls. The best that I know and better than Ms. Bennett, I assure you. A photographer mind you. What kind of a job is that? Aunt Catherine shouted.
"Then why don't you marry them? They're nothing but rich b*tches who think they're queen of the world, and that all other human beings below them are nothing but trash. And don't you talk about her like that. You have no right. You don't even know her," Darcy shouted back
*gasp* "You rude and insolent boy! Raise your voice at me will you? I never!" an appalled Aunt Catherine said as she stood up and started to circle the room. "Being a woman of her class, she is probably after your money."
"I know her better than you do, and I can assure you that she has no intentions whatsoever in trapping me into giving her money. If she did, then she would never have offered me a chance to back out of my responsibility as the father. Heck, I already proposed to her once, and she turned me down flat. That should make you happy. She turned me down because she thought that I was trying to please you when in actuality I was trying to protect her from you. I knew that you would come here and chew her out for trying to get a hold of me. Not to mention that we were not engaged, and I know how much you dislike illegitimate children." Darcy retorted.
A stunned Aunt Catherine stopped pacing and turned to face her nephew. He had proposed already to this lady and he was turned down?
"I take it then that you still have feelings for this woman," she said calmly and hopeful that all past feelings were gone.
"Yes. I'm in love with her."
"I see. Where is she? Where is Ms. Bennett? I want to talk to her," she said sternly. "Using her charm to make you fall in love with her so she can take advantage of you. How dare she! Where is she?!"
"She's outside with the girls. And I suggest that you yourself do not make you way out there. Rather I suggest you leave this instant. Right now."
"Don't tell me what to do William. I am your aunt, and therefore you cannot stop me from seeing this woman and those . . . those illegitimate children of yours."
"When it comes to my family, Aunt Catherine, I have every right to tell you what you can and cannot do. I will not have you going around my house abusing Elizabeth to her face. She deserves to be treated better than that. I cannot and will not allow it. If you cannot accept the fact that we are the proud parents of twin girls, then I suggest that you leave us alone and have nothing to do with us, for I certainly do not want to have anything to do with anyone who insults my family," Darcy roared back at his horror-struck aunt.
"Very well, William Darcy! You can expect nothing from me, not even a word . . .EVER!" Aunt Catherine sneered.
"I never expected anything good from you Aunt. Now good day and get out of my house . . .now," Darcy said as coolly as possible.
Months passed and Lizzy and Darcy had the absolute joy in watching their daughters grow. With each passing day, Darcy wished more and more that he and Lizzy could just share more than their love for their children. He wanted more than anything to spend the rest of his life with her and the girls. There were times when he felt that she had changed her mind and feelings towards him, but then he felt he had a wrong impression. He never had the courage again to ask. He didn't think he could stand the pain from being turned down again. He was too scared.
"What's this? Darcy asked as Lizzy handed him a gift bag one day.
"I guess you can call it a very late Christmas present or a very, very early Christmas present. Whatever you want."
"You know I told you that you didn't have to get me a Christmas present. You giving me the girls was just as good as any gift."
Lizzy blushed. She hated it when he said things like that to her.
"I know I didn't have time to actually go out and do some Christmas shopping, but I felt really bad in not getting you a gift, so here it is."
Darcy opened the bag to find 5 x 7 black picture frame. In that frame was an up close and personal black and white photo of him and the twins outside in the snow. He had one girl in each arm, both of them smiling, while he held them close to his face, laughing. They were covered in snowflakes and the girls looked so cute with little beanies on their heads.
"Thank you Lizzy," Darcy smiled as he stood up to give her a hug. "I don't know what to say. This is the best Christmas present I've ever received. Well, second to the girls."
Lizzy blushed once again. She had to say that that picture was probably one of her favorites. Actually, it was her favorite. It was of her girls and their father and they looked so happy.
"Lizzy, are you doing anything this weekend?" Darcy said out of the blue.
"Huh? Um, not that I know of . . .why?"
"Well, I was hoping that maybe we could get Mrs. Reynolds to watch the girls while you and I go for an afternoon stroll or something along the lines. And then maybe a dinner?"
"Um, yeah. That would be great. It would be nice to get away from all the noise and commotion for a day or even a few hours. Yes, I would like that very much."
"Good, then it's settled," Darcy said with a relief.
That night, Darcy couldn't sleep. He was actually too astonished to sleep because he wasn't expecting Lizzy to actually agree to go out with him. Well, he wasn't actually calling it a date. He thought that it would be nice to just get out of the house and enjoy themselves. He didn't think that she would agree to go with him after his disastrous proposal. Just as he was about to fall asleep, he heard the one of the girls crying followed by the other.
It was suppose to be Lizzy's night to take care of the girls, but Darcy knew that she was exhausted. He looked at her and noticed that she didn't even stir. He decided that since he was still awake, he would take care of them. Besides, he wanted Lizzy to get her rest. When he was done with the girls, he put them back in their cribs and watched them as they slowly went back to sleep.
"You know. You two girls are the luckiest girls in the world. You have a family that loves you and a wonderful, amazing, kind, and loving mother who adores you more than I do. Well, maybe not as much as I do," Darcy smiled as he hovered over them.
The moonlight shown through the windows and glass door, illuminating the room. Darcy turned around and looked at a sleeping Lizzy. She really looked like an angel as she slept with the moon's light touching her body.
Darcy wished that it was him that was touching her right now. He turned back to the girls.
"But what makes you even luckier is that you have your mother's eyes. You know why? Because boys will line up one day just to look into your chocolate brown eyes that dance when the sun shines on them. You two are going to enchant them and make them fall hopelessly in love with you just like your mother has made me fall in love with her. When I look in her eyes, I feel as if time has stopped, the world seizes to exist, and I have lost all control of myself. And not only that, but I see that she is the most amazing woman I have ever met. I hope you two grow up to become just like your mother. Sleep tight," Darcy said as he kissed the sleeping twins on their foreheads before climbing back into his bed.
Unbeknownst to Darcy, Lizzy was in fact not asleep. She had woken up when Darcy was already tending to the girls. Surprised, she watched him as he changed diapers and fed them their bottles. She wondered why he was the one doing all this. It wasn't even her turn. She was about to go to sleep when she heard him softly talking to the girls. This definitely caught her attention. Lizzy was flattered beyond words. She knew that she couldn't go in denial for much longer. She was without a doubt in love with this man. Now it was her turn to be unable to sleep. She recalled a conversation she had with Jane a few days ago as they watched Darcy play with the girls.
"You know Lizzy, you are a very luck woman."
"How so?"
"Well, look at your life. You have two wonderful twin daughters, a father who completely adores them to death, and is in love with you. Not to mention that he his very rich. Lydia told me that she knows people that would kill to be in your shoes."
"How do you know that Will's in love with me?" Lizzy questioned.
"Can't you see? He looks at you with that lovesick smile of his. I've never seen him look at anyone like that before. It's that obvious. It's the same look that Charles gave me before we were engaged. "
Lizzy sighed. She knew that Jane was right.
"Lizzy, if William ever asked you to marry him, would you?"
Jane did not know about the disastrous proposal that Darcy had said the day Lizzy went into labor.
"I don't know Jane. I really don't know what I would say."
As Lizzy thought of this conversation, she realized that she absolutely did not know what she would say.
One Week Later
The Day of the big date finally arrived. The days leading up to it was hell and torture for Darcy. He was growing nervous. It wasn't exactly suppose to be a date, just a night to get away from their now hectic life, but he wanted it to be perfect.
"So Mr. Darcy, where are we going today?" Lizzy tried to squeeze out of him.
"I'll tell you one thing and one thing only . . . wear something comfortable and warm."
"Great, thanks for the information," Lizzy replied, dripping in sarcasm.
Darcy smiled in Return.
"Okay, fine," he relented. "I know you've been cooped up a bit and haven't been able to go out for your daily walks as often as you would like, so I decided that maybe we should start with an evening stroll along the riverbank and proceed from there. Sound good?"
"Sounds good to me."
Mrs. Reynolds was more than willing to watch the girls. She felt that is was high time that Lizzy and Darcy took a break from their duties as parents. In fact, she insisted that they lovely couple stay out as long as they wanted to.
Half an hour before sunset, Lizzy walked out to the backyard to find Darcy waiting for her under a tree as promised. He was wearing loose-fitting khaki pants to go along with his tucked white buttoned-down long-sleeved shirt and navy ribbed sweater. On his feet were a pair of black Dr. Martens. Darcy looked up from where he was standing to see Lizzy dressed in a black ribbed turtle neck, dark blue fitting stretch jeans, and similar looking brown Dr. Martens. She looked absolutely heavenly as she descended the deck stairs. Darcy stuffed his hands in his pocket and nervously twitched his ankle.
"I see that you have kept your promise, Mr. Darcy," Lizzy teased.
"I always keep my promises."
"Always?"
"Always," Darcy replied with a twinkle in his eyes. "After you."
At first they walked in silence, but upon reaching their neighbor's house, it no longer existed.
"Good afternoon Darcy, Ms. Bennett. I take it all things and the girls are well?" their neighbor Jake McKendrick asked cheerfully from his deck.
"Afternoon Jake," Lizzy and Darcy replied simultaneously before Lizzy continued. "Tiana and Camryn are doing just great. Never been better."
"That's good to hear. I can't wait to be a father."
"How's the Mrs.?" Darcy questioned.
"Kate is just as fat as ever. She's due in a month and a half. But I'll be quiet now. You two enjoy your walk now.
Right as Lizzy and Darcy were out of sight, Kate McKendrick came wobbling out of the house.
"Who was that dear?
"Darcy and Lizzy. They're taking a walk . . . alone."
The couple mischievously grinned at each other. It was about time that Darcy made his move.
Lizzy and continued walking along the river bank. As they walked, they talked about whatever and were constantly joking and laughing. They passed the few homes that lined the bank and proceeded on down the path. By then the sun was about to set. What little light that was left seeped through the tangle of leaves and branches that hung over head, creating an arch way. They reached a certain spot where they sat on a bench and enjoyed the setting of the sun.
When the sun finally disappeared, Lizzy and Darcy headed back towards the house. Old-Fashioned street lamps lit the path ahead of them. Upon arriving at the house, Darcy explained that he was taking her out to dinner next. Where, he wouldn't say. Seeing that he was well dressed, Lizzy felt grungy and decided to change. She came back wearing a knee-lengthed grey skirt and knee-high black boots. Darcy grabbed his leather jacket before walking out to his Jaguar and opening Lizzy's door.
They arrived at the restaurant
"Ah, Mr. Darcy and Ms. Bennett if I'm correct, yes?" the host said as he nodded in Lizzy's direction. "I see you are early tonight. I hope the both of you are doing well?"
"Yes we are Wilkins. Thank you. And you?" Darcy asked back.
"Never better. Come, I shall show you your table. Follow me."
They were lead outside to the patio and seated in a small section secluded section of the Victorian garden and beside the heat lamp. A lone street lamp and white Christmas provided the only illumination as well as the two candles that Wilkins had lighted for them upon their arrival. All around them they were surrounded by various flowers and bushes that rose above their heads, and in the middle of the section was a water fountain. No one else was eating outside, so they were completely alone. Piano music floated out from inside providing background music. Their waiter came out to collect their orders before leaving them to themselves.
"Wow, this place is amazing. It's beautiful, especially being out here in the garden," Lizzy said as she looked at her surroundings.
"You've never been here before?" Darcy asked in amazement as Lizzy shook her head. "Well, there's always a first time for everything. I knew that you would like it here."
Lizzy could tell that Darcy was starting to become uneasy. It was as if he wanted to say something. She only hoped that he hadn't brought her here to propose because she wasn't sure if she was ready to accept him. It would ruin the whole moment. This moment of silence was also making her uneasy.
"Lizzy, is it all right if I ask you a personal question?"
"Um, . . . sure. I guess," Lizzy replied hesitantly.
"Whatever happened to us? I mean, why didn't you call me back when I left for Europe?"
Lizzy stared at Darcy. She never expected him to ask that question. She almost forgot about the whole thing.
"You never called me Will," Lizzy said softly.
"What are you talking about? I called you back as soon as I could. You weren't there so I left a message and my phone number, but you never called me back," Will said somewhat angrily.
"Will, I never got a message. I don't know what you're talking about," Lizzy spat back.
Just then, the waiter came out with their food and wished them a happy evening. While he was serving them, it dawned on Lizzy that Darcy was telling the truth. She remembered that she was so upset about Darcy not calling her. She came home one night and threw her things on her answering machine. Lizzy knew that her messages had been erased because Charlotte called and complained that Lizzy didn't return her call. It never hit her that Darcy could have left a message.
"Oh no," Lizzy moaned.
"What? What's wrong?"
"You know, I just realized that I probably erased your message. That's why I never heard it. You see, I threw some things on my machine and it erased my messages without me knowing it. I didn't know until Charlotte scolded me for not returning her call. It never hit me that you could have left a message."
"Well that explains it," Darcy said still slightly annoyed. He knew he couldn't and shouldn't get mad. "Sorry. I didn't mean to snap. It was a mistake and there was nothing that we could have done about it. Well, then again, I could have called back."
"Why didn't you?"
"When you didn't call back, I assumed that you didn't want to talk to me, that you thought that whole night was nothing but a big mistake and that you were mad at me."
"Oh."
Another moment in silence followed as the couple ate their dinner. It was a while before Lizzy broke the silence.
"Will, what are we going to do now that the girls are growing up? We can't go on living like this forever you know. And you can't sleep on the couch bed forever."
"Hey, the bed's actually quite comfortable, I'll have you know," Darcy said as if he were offended and then smiled. "I know what you're talking about. I really don't know what to do," Darcy lied. He knew exactly what he wanted to do. He wanted to propose and he wanted to do it right.
"If you'll excuse me, I need to go to the bathroom," Lizzy said after a slight pause in conversation.
As soon as Lizzy was out of sight, Darcy went inside and walked up to the pianist. He asked the pianist if he could play two songs and if he could do it in 15 minutes. The man agreed and Darcy thanked him and gave a $50 dollar tip. He then ran out to the car and quickly grabbed two packages from the trunk before returning. He made it back to his before Lizzy came back. When Lizzy came back, their waiter came and asked if they would like any dessert. They ordered their dessert and started a different conversation. Just as planned, the pianist began to play Darcy's request. The moment Darcy heard the music, he stood up and extended his hand to Lizzy.
"Dance with me," Darcy whispered.
Lizzy looked up at Darcy and without hesitating, placed her hand in his and allowed him to lead her over to an open space. His hand was big and strong, yet soft against her skin. He put his other hand on the small of her back while she put her other hand on his shoulder. All this time, they never took their eyes off each other. They stood there for a couple seconds, staring into each other's eyes before they started to sway to the music. Being a jazzy song, Darcy started to twirl Lizzy around causing them both to laugh.
When that song was done, the pianist began to play the slower jazz song of the two. Unconsciously, Lizzy and Darcy moved closer to each other. Lizzy placed her arms around Darcy's neck as he wrapped his arms around her.
Quietly, Darcy began to hum along as he smiled subtly. Before he knew it, Lizzy laid her head against his chest. He smelled so good. In return, Darcy leaned his head against hers. He then began to softly sing along.
This can't be love
Because I
Feel so well
No sobs, no sorrows, no sighsThis can't be love
I get no
Dizzy spell
My head is not in the skyMy heart does not stand still
Just hear it beat
This is too sweet to be loveThis can't be love
Because I
Feel so well
But still I love to look in your eyesMy heart does not stand still
Just hear it beat
This is too sweet to be loveThis can't be love
Because I
Feel so well
But still I love to look in your eyes
Still I love to look in your eyes"This Can't Be Love" by Nat King Cole
To Darcy, the only true thing about this song was that he loved to look in her eyes. He was in love. As soon as the song was done, Darcy whispered into her ear.
"I have something for you."
Darcy walked back to the table, Lizzy's hand still in his. They sat down and Lizzy just looked back in anticipation. Darcy reached under the table and pulled out two unwrapped boxes tied together, one on top of the other, and handed them to Lizzy.
"What's this?" she asked.
"Happy birthday. Well, a few days early birthday."
"Will," she whined, "Thank you."
"Open it," he grinned as he sat back in his chair and watched her carefully open the first gift, his elbows propped up on the armrests and his hands folded together.
"Oh my goodness!" Lizzy gasped. "It's the telephoto lens that I've been saving up for. How'd you know?"
"I asked your sisters. Open the other one."
Lizzy opened the second gift and to her shock and amazement, there sat a brand new camera staring right back at her. It was the one that she always wanted. In fact, it was better than her present camera.
"Will . . . I really don't know what to say."
"I knew you were a photographer and I remember you looking at this camera for ever when we went shopping for stuff for the girls. I hope you like it."
"Like it!? I love it. Thank you so much," Lizzy said as she stood up to give Darcy a hug."
All Darcy could do was smile, blush, and hug Lizzy back. He wished he could hold her longer. It felt to right. Their waiter finally came back out with their dessert. While they ate, Darcy couldn't help but feel satisfied. Lizzy commented that both gifts must have cost him a lot. He said that it was nothing at all, which was true. Upon finishing their dessert, Darcy suggested that they leave so they could take another stroll, this time along the Inner Baltimore Harbor Place Pavilion after they picked up some coffee. Darcy knew that Lizzy missed taking her daily walks, and that she wouldn't mind going on another one.
As the walked along the harbor and drank their coffee, Darcy noticed that Lizzy looked a little bit cold. He offered his leather jacked which he had in the car. She at first refused but finally relented. Darcy assured her that he wasn't cold, that he was just fine. He took it off and helped her into it. Lizzy could once again smell his cologne.
"Will, do you mind if I ask why you gave me an early birthday gift? Why not at the party that our sisters are throwing this week?"
"One, I didn't want my present to outshine other people's presents or draw attention away from them. And second of all, I wanted to give it to you in person when we were along so you wouldn't have to worry about other gifts."
"So you wanted to be special, huh?" Lizzy teased.
"Exactly," Darcy smiled back proudly.
They continued to walk along the harbor, enjoying the other's company and their coffee. When they reached the end, the stopped to sit down and talk to more. After a few minutes, the got back up and head back towards the car. They were walking side by side, occasionally bumping into each other. At one point, their hands brushed against each other. Darcy looked at Lizzy who turned her head to look back at him. While they still looked at each other, Darcy took her hand in his warm hand and gave it a gentle squeeze but didn't let go. They smiled at each other and continued walking. Eventually and unconsciously, Lizzy entwined her fingers with his.
The drive home was a silent one. Both didn't know what to say to each other. Neither one of them wanted this moment to end, but they knew that they couldn't leave the girls with Mrs. Reynolds for long. She needed to go home as well.
"I hope you enjoyed our little outing today," Darcy said as he opened the car door for Lizzy and helped her out.
"As a matter of fact, I did. Thank you so much for everything Will. I really appreciate it."
"No problem. Here, let me carry that for you."
Darcy followed Lizzy into the house where they were greeted by Mrs. Reynolds and the wide-awake girls.
"I take it you two had a fun time?" she questioned.
"Yes we did," Lizzy said as she took Camryn from her.
"I hope you didn't have too much trouble with the girls," Darcy added as he put the gifts down and picked Tiana off the floor and gave her a kiss.
"Oh no. They were like the little angels they are. Well, now that I know you two are home safely, I'd best be making my way home. I'll see you two in a week."
"Oh yeah, tell your daughter hi from me will you?"
"Sure thing Mr. Darcy. Good-bye Ms. Bennett."
"Good-bye Mrs. Reynolds. Have fun. Will, I'm going to put the girls in bed now."
"Huh? Okay. I'm going to do some work. I'll be up in a bit," Darcy said as he handed Tiana to her mother.
Darcy went to his study and took his sweater off and began rummaging through some papers. Unfortunately, he couldn't concentrate. The events of that night kept running through his head. He kept looking around the room and fidgeting. He looked at the picture frame that Lizzy had given him which was now sitting on his desk. It was driving him crazy. He wanted her. He wasn't sure how long he could resist her. Knowing he would get no work done, he went upstairs to prepare for bed.
Upstairs, Lizzy was busy putting the girls to sleep. Once they fell asleep, which was very quickly, she went to the bathroom to change and prepare for bed. Darcy was on her mind as well. She remembered dancing so close to him and holding his hand. It had been a perfect night. Truthfully she was scared. Things were moving too fast for her. She cared about him. She loved him. She was just afraid to let him in her heart.
"I can't keep doing this too myself," she thought. "I know I promised myself I wouldn't fall for anyone for a long time after George cheated on me. But I can't help it. Will is just amazing. I can't be too cautious anymore. I have to let it go and move on."
At that moment, Darcy came into the room. They looked at each other and smiled. They stood there staring at each other which felt like forever. She looked amazing in a tank top and shorts. She still looked great after giving birth to the twins. Darcy slowly moved towards Lizzy who couldn't take her eyes off of him. He took her hands in his and looked deep into her eyes. True to what he had said to his daughters, he felt as if time stopped, the world seized to exist, and he lost control over himself. Slowly, he lowered his head towards hers. Their lips brushed lightly against each other's.
"Will, please don't," Lizzy barely managed to whisper, her eyes closed. She knew that if he kissed her, she may not stop kissing him back. In fact, she was afraid.
Darcy closed his eyes and stopped. His heart was pounding and his breathing was heavy. There was no way that he could resist now. He had already lost all control. He leaned forward and gently placed his lips against Lizzy's. Lizzy responded by taking a sharp breath. Who knows how long this kiss lasted. Darcy withdrew and placed four small kisses on her lips before withdrawing again and resting his forehead against hers. He felt like he was in heaven. All the emotions that he had kept within were now free.
"I'm sorry. I shouldn't . . ." Darcy apologized but was stopped before he could continue by Lizzy's fingers which she placed on his lips.
"Shhhh . . .don't be," she cut him off while looking into his eyes.
Darcy lightly kissed her fingers as it traced over his lips. Lizzy took her other hand out from his grasp and placed it on his face as she leaned forward to kiss him back. Darcy wrapped his arms around Lizzy and hugged her really tight. After a couple minutes of kissing, Lizzy withdrew, wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her face in his neck, placing a couple of kisses on his neck. Darcy's pulse continued to race even faster. They spent a few minutes in each other's arms with Darcy caressing her back. They both had waited for this moment for so long.
Darcy pulled his head back, placed his hands on her face, and started to kiss Lizzy again. Her lips were so sweet. Lizzy began to pull his shirt out of his pants and unbutton it. She gently removed Darcy's hands from her face and proceeded to slide the shirt off his muscular shoulder. As soon as the shirt was at his elbows, Darcy reached up once again and cupped Lizzy's face in his hands. That didn't last long as Lizzy brushed his arms aside, unbutton the cuffs of his shirt, and slid it completely off his body. This whole time, their lips never parted.
When Lizzy succeeded in taking off Darcy's shirt, she wrapped her arms around his neck. Darcy's lips began to wonder from her lops, down her neck, and to her left shoulder. He slid the thin strap off her tank top off her shoulder and lightly placed kissed on it. His lips then traveled back to her lips. He stopped, picked her up, and placed her on her bed. They started kissing again until Darcy began kissing her neck.
"Will," Lizzy moaned. "William."
"Hmmmm?" he mumbled as he moved back up to her lips again.
"Maybe we . . . shouldn't . . . be . . . doing this," she said in-between kisses. "This isn't right."
Darcy stopped. "Yeah, I think you're right. We should."
"Will, please don't get the wrong impression. I just don't think now is the time to do it, no matter how right it feels," Lizzy pleaded. "I know this may sound weird, but I want to wait till I'm married. I mean, I know we've already . . . done it, but it doesn't feel like we actually did it since we were drunk."
"I understand," Darcy said as he kissed her hand and began to stand up. "I know how you feel. I kind of feel the same way."
"Will, please stay with me tonight."
Darcy smiled. "I was hoping you would ask."
That night, both of them slept very well knowing that they were finally giving in to their emotions and that they were in each other's arms.
The next morning
Lizzy woke the next morning on the side of the bed wondering why she felt so good. There was something different. Something happened last night. She knew it had to do with Darcy. Maybe it was a dream. She wasn't sure. Suddenly, a muscular arm came out of nowhere and wrapped itself around her waist, holding onto her arm. A warm, gentle breeze rolled down her neck as the arm pulled its owner's body closer to her. So it wasn't a dream after all. It had been real. William Darcy was a matter of fact in bed with her. Lizzy couldn't help but smile. She remembered the time when Darcy accidentally got in bed with her. She had been so mortified when they woke up to find each other in bed together. The thought of this made her smile even more. It felt so right then, and it still did. Now this time she knew it wasn't an accident. It was for real and they both had wanted it to happen.
All was cut short by the crying of one of the girls. Lizzy groaned, irritated that her special moment was ruined. She rolled out of bed and was about to walk over to the cribs when she felt herself being held back by Darcy.
"Where do you think you're going?" he mumbled into the pillow, his eyes still closed.
Lizzy sat on the bed and kissed Darcy on the cheek. "One of the girls is crying. I think she's hungry."
"So? Let her cry. Stay here in bed . . . with me."
"Will, really. How could you do that to your own daughter?" Lizzy teased.
"Easily," was his reply.
Lizzy smiled once again, stood up, and headed over to her wailing daughter. A couple of minutes later, a loud thump was heard followed by a groan. She turned around to find Darcy on the floor wrapped in the sheets slowly crawling in the direction of the bathroom. He was not a morning person. All Lizzy could do was smile.
When Darcy had finished taking his shower, he came out to find Lizzy pacing around the room bottle-feeding the other daughter. He snuck up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed the now exposed back of her neck since her hair was up in a bun.
"Good morning," Darcy whispered in an audible voice.
"Good morning sleepyhead."
Darcy moved over to where his other daughter was and picked her up ever so gently before returning to his original position with Lizzy but this time with one arm around her waist.
"I have a confession to make," Lizzy said out of the blue.
"Really. Is it bad?"
"It depends on your definition of bad. Last week, the night I gave you your late Christmas present, I was actually awake and heard everything that you said to the girls."
"You did?" an embarrassed Darcy stammered.
"Uh-huh. [Pause] They have your smile."
Darcy leaned down and whispered "To go along with your amazing eyes" before kissing her on the lips. To bad they were interrupted when Georgianna came busting through the door.
"Rise and shine, the sun is out to . . .oh my goodness! I'm terribly sorry. I should have knocked," Georgianna said before she turned around, ran out, and closed the door. Her footsteps could be heard as she ran down the hallway. A few seconds later, screams could be heard throughout the house. Screams could only mean one thing: Kit was here with Georgianna.
"I think it's time we head down for breakfast. What do you say? I'm sure the girls are here for some breakfast as well," Lizzy sighed.
The two headed down for breakfast to find two giddy girls with monstrous grins that they were trying desperately to hide with no success.
"Good morning girls," Darcy spoke in a "I know what you're thinking" tone.
"A very good morning to you too," Georgianna snickered as she put a heavy emphasis on very.
"Did you two ever think of ringing the doorbell?" questioned Lizzy as she and Darcy placed the twins in their highchairs.
"What for when Georgie has the key. You know that this is her house," Kit replied nonchalantly.
At that moment, Jane and Bingley came through the back door.
"What's for breakfast?" a very happy and excited Bingley said with energy.
"Someone is all rise and shine this morning."
"Kit, no need to smirk at Bing like that," reprimanded Lizzy.
"I was just joking. My goodness."
"And we're having my famous omelets for breakfast everyone. You know, I really don't understand why you guys can't make your own breakfast. I'm not your personal cook. And doesn't anyone ring the doorbell anymore?"
"Well, you are now, so deal with it. You knew we were coming over to plan the birthday party for you Lizzy," Jane teased.
"Yes I know. I forgot about it."
"Yeah, and we know why," Kit laughed as she pointed to herself and Georgianna.
Lizzy and Darcy both looked at each other and began to blush feverishly.
"Well, Kit and I came over, and seeing that neither one of them was awake, I decided that I would go wake them up. I came into their room thinking that the both of them were still asleep, and to my shock and horror, I found them making out while they were holding Tiana and Camryn. They looked so cute together," Georgianna explained.
Jane looked up at her sister in amazement before speaking. "So when exactly were you going to tell us about you two? How long has this been going on?"
"Um-ah, er, it's . . . not long. Just last night actually," Darcy mumbled as he ran his hand through his messy hair.
"They went on a date," whispered Kit.
"And how did you know that?" Lizzy questioned. Nobody was suppose to know about their "date."
"My dear sister, I saw you two entering Hoppe's last night when I drove by. What did you want me to do? Roll down the windows and holler at you two? And run a perfect moment? Whatever!"
"Well," piped in Bingley, "I'm glad for the sake of everyone here in this room, especially the twins, that you two have finally realized that you two were meant for each other. Took you long enough, I say."
"Too long," thought Darcy and Lizzy as they squeezed each other's hand and smiled.
"Okay, time to start planning girls."
"Yes Momma Jay!" the girls chorused back at Jane.
Lizzy's Birthday Party
Spring air filled the lungs of those who breathed. The sun was setting; a slight breeze drifted through the cool air, and all was right in the world. Well, not exactly. Camryn and Tiana cried nonstop, Lizzy's younger cousins were running all over the place, and Darcy's dog Algernon was barking incessantly with excitement. But Lizzy couldn't be much happier. All her loved ones where there: her parents, all her sisters save Lydia and Mary who couldn't get out of college to come, Bing, Georgianna, Uncle and Aunt Gardiner and their children, Colonel Fitzwilliam, the Lucas and Phillips family, other friends and family, and most of all, William Darcy.
The party was held outside by the river. A big sign saying "Happy Birthday Elizabeth" hung in-between some trees. White Christmas light also hung in the trees for later use. Chairs and tables were scattered all over the place. A buffet table was set out for the various foods that had been cooked. Next to it was a BBQ that Darcy was using. All kinds of birthday decorations were strewn wherever. A little stage had been set up next to the dance floor so people could make fools of themselves when they attempted to sing karaoke. Thank heavens Mary wasn't there.
"Happy birthday Lizzy," Jane said when she was finally able to pull her away from Darcy. They were almost inseparable.
"Thank you. Well Jane, I must say that you have outdone yourself. This is the best party that I've ever had."
"Lizzy, I didn't do this by myself you know. Kit and Georgianna helped as well."
"I know. But this was your idea."
As they talked, Lizzy just happened to glance up and catch Darcy staring back at her as the men in his group chatted away. He had been laughing with a few pals when he looked to the side and caught sight of her. His big smile faded to a small and content smile. She looked beyond amazing. They looked at each other and smiled before he was interrupted by his laughing friends and she by her mother.
"Lizzy," Mrs. Bennett shrieked. "You did not tell me that you and William were together. You sly thing, you. I knew that you two would get together. You didn't' have his children for nothing. Oooooooo, heh heh," she sang as she danced off.
"Ugh, I can't believe mother. Why does she have to say things like that to me? I hate it when she does that."
"And me," Jane said curtly before calming down. "But she is our mother. I know she means well. Come, Dad's about to make an announcement."
"Attention all. I would like to thank you for coming to Lizzy's birthday party. It means a lot to her. And now, it is time to sing to the birthday girl. Lizzy, come on up here."
Jane gave her a pat on the butt to shoo her up to the stage. Lizzy glared at her sister before moving aside and letting Charles take her place beside Jane. As she passed by Darcy, he quickly grabbed her hand to squeeze it and winked at her before smiling like a goof. She stood up on the stage while everyone sang "Happy Birthday" to her. While she was up there, she noticed that everyone had a drink in their hand. As soon as they were done singing, Darcy got up on stage next to her.
"I would like to propose a toast. A toast to Ms. Elizabeth Bennett. An amazing daughter, sister, and friend to all. And above all, the wonderful mother of my children. May you have many more birthday's to come." Darcy finished sincerely before raising his cup and gulping its contents.
Sighs were heard throughout he crowd. Lizzy blushed uncontrollably. Her cheeks were a deep red and she felt like they were on fire. Everybody's pair of eyes were on her, making the situation much worse to her than it seemed. As music began to fill the air again, Darcy stepped down from the stage and headed towards Lizzy for a kiss. He picked her up and began to swing her around in circles, her hair flying around with her. Their laughter filled the night air. Those surrounding them smiled at the happy couple.
"They are so happy. Look at them, Charles. I couldn't be much happier for them."
"I know honey," Bingley said as he kissed Jane's forehead.
"He should propose to her," Jane sighed.
"Um, I don't think that's a good idea."
"Why?"
"Lizzy didn't tell you?"
"Tell me what? What is it Charles?"
"Well, . . . um, Darcy already proposed to her before."
"What? You can't be serious. When?"
"Before the girls were born. He proposed the night she went into labor. She said no."
"Why? I asked her a few months back and she said she didn't know what she would say."
"Really? Well anyway, he proposed to Lizzy. She said no. Darcy was mad at himself because of the way he did it. He told her he wanted to marry her cause he loved her, he wanted to complete the family, and because he wanted to please his Aunt Catherine."
"Oh no. I can't believe he said that. She probably said no because she didn't want to marry him just to please his aunt, huh."
"That's exactly why."
"But the seem so happy. Maybe she's forgiven him. That's probably why she said she didn't know what she would say if he asked," Jane speculated.
"I think you're right. Let's hope so," Bingley kissed her forehead again.
The night carried on as did the party. Slowly, one by one, people began to leave. After cleaning up, Lizzy and Darcy's sisters went home, leaving the "love couple" to themselves. Darcy went looking for Lizzy as soon as he let Georgianna out the door. He went outside and found her standing on the dock which was also wrapped in Christmas lights as well, providing more illumination than the lone lamp at the end of the dock. She was too busy looking at the moon's reflection on the water to notice him.
" I remember when I came out of the water the day I came home from Europe. I was mortified to see you," Darcy's voice cut through the silence.
Lizzy whirled around to find him standing a few feet away from her with his hands in his pocket.
"If anyone was mortified, it was me because I wasn't expecting you and I was on your property."
A soft laugh bubbled up from his throat. His palms were sweaty. He could feel himself twitch now and then. Did he have the courage to proceed?
"Where are the girls?" Lizzy continued after a few seconds of staring and silence.
"Asleep. I don't think we shouldn't leave them alone."
"True. We should be going inside." she mumbled to herself in particular.
For some reason they all of a sudden seemed awkward being in each other's presence. What was it with awkwardness and the dock?
After a slight pause, she continued. "Will, do you ever think it was a mistake? I mean, was it a mistake having the girls?"
"No. Never in a million years. If it is a mistake, then it's a mistake I'm willing to make again."
At the sound of those words, Lizzy stiffened.
"Liz . . ."
Oh no. There it was again. He was using that name again. Lizzy's heart began to pound wildly at the sound of that name. She knew what was going to happen. She didn't know what to do. Her breathing began to speed up as her body temperature suddenly began to rise.
"Um, Liz . . . Lizzy . . . Liz . . ."
Lizzy giggled as she bit her lip. She couldn't help it.
Darcy tried again as he ran his had through his hair and around his neck. He was extremely nervous. "Liz . . . I know that I asked you once before. And I know I said things that you didn't want to hear. I'm sorry. I should have never said it. It was a big mistake on my part. But these past few days, I . . . I have never been so much happier than ever before. And it's all because of you. I truthfully have never felt this way about anyone, only you. You and you alone. You don't know how much I hated myself for saying those things to you that night. If I could, I would take it back. The only thing I would not take back are my feelings for you. They're still the same and will never change."
Here he took Lizzy's hands in his and stared at them. He was trying to avoid her eyes. Lizzy gulped before he continued and got down on one knee.
"Complete my life and make me a happy man. I know I don't deserve you, but will you please give me the honor and pleasure of consenting to be my wife for as long as we both shall live? I love you so much and don't know what I would do without you."
Dead silence. This was pure torture. Lizzy let go of his hands, turned around and walked towards the edge of the dock. Darcy stood up, panic spreading throughout his body. Could he take another rejection?
"Jane once asked me way after you first proposed what I would say if you were ever to ask me to marry you," Lizzy's voice broke the silence. "And I told her that I really didn't know. I guess you can say I was waiting for a sign."
Lizzy turned around once more to face Darcy. He stood in one place; the lights lighted up his face. He looked so handsome. She took a deep breath before continuing.
"Then one day, you thought I was outside as you berated your Aunt Catherine. In actuality, I had just entered the house to get something when I heard you two talking. It was then that I finally realized what you had meant when you first proposed. It was clear as crystal. I felt like such a fool because I was too hasty and I wouldn't give you a chance to explain. I didn't realize till then just how much I admired you and loved you. I thought that I had blown my chances at being with you. And then everything happened so fast. Too fast for me in fact. You see, many months before I . . . we got pregnant, I dated a guy whom I thought was the one for me. I was completely blind. Then one day I caught him cheating on me. It really hurt and I promised myself that I wouldn't fall for any man for a long time. But you came along and rescued me from, well, you know who. I tried to guard my heart from you. I tried to be cautious, but no matter how hard I tried, it never worked. I was attracted to you , but I would never admit it to anyone or myself. Living together didn't make it easier either. I fell in love faster than before and faster than I thought. That's why I didn't want you to kiss me that night because I knew what would happen if you did. I was scared. And I'm glad you did because I was sick and tired of hiding my emotions. Like you, these past few days have been incredibly wonderful. I haven't been this happy since I gave birth to the twins."
Darcy patiently waited for her reply.
"If Jane were to ask me that question again, I would know what my answer would be. And it would be yes. Yes, I will give you the honor and pleasure by consenting to be your wife because I love you more than anything else."
Lizzy's playful side began to return. "Well, maybe not the girls."
Darcy began to smile and slowly laugh as he watched Lizzy try to contain her smile with no success. Their laughter once more filled the night air. As Lizzy tried to cover her mouth with her hand, Darcy came striding over and did it for her with his lips. If someone were to come outside, they would have seen the most picturesque picture of all. There stood Lizzy and Darcy in each other's arms, kissing on the docks, surrounded by white Christmas lights with the moon shining down on the water. Thank heavens there was a slight breeze to cool them off.
"I love Elizabeth Bennett," Darcy said as he stared deep into her eyes. "You have made me the most happiest and luckiest man of all. You have given me not only two wonderful baby twin girls, but you have given me your hand in marriage."
"And you have made me the most happiest and luckiest woman of all by being father to the girls, loving me, and for wanting to take care of me and protect me."
Darcy temporarily let go of Lizzy to reach into his pocket and pull out a velvet case for Lizzy to open. Inside was platinum ring with three diamonds, the one in the middle being slightly larger than the other two.
"The smaller ones are you and me. And together, we become one giant family," Darcy explained as he slipped the ring on her finger before kissing it.
They stood on the docks a while longer to soak in the moment in each other's arms.
"You know, Richard once told me before, when you and I absolutely hated each other, that he would laugh if we someday got married. I laughed at him because I told him it was impossible."
"Well, he can laugh all he wants because I don't give a damn. I just can't believe that all this time, you were standing right in front of me," Lizzy heaved.
"It doesn't matter now. What matters now is that we're here together and very much in love."
"Yes, very,' Lizzy whispered before kissing Darcy.
"The girls!" Darcy suddenly realized.
Lizzy started to laugh. "I think we've been too distracted. Come on."
Once inside, they headed upstairs to check on the girls. Lizzy and Darcy were feeling a little guilty for not being near them.
"Are they still alive?" Darcy said in mock seriousness.
"I think so," Lizzy chuckled back as she gently poked the girls' pudgy arms.
"Mmmmmmm," Darcy groaned as he wrapped his arms around Lizzy's waist and drank in the fact that they were soon going to be a true family.
The Next Morning
Lizzy got up before Darcy did. It was almost time to feed the girls, so she went to the bathroom to take her shower. As she washed her face, she noticed the ring in the mirror. Everything about the night before came streaming back to her. She was going to be the future Mrs. William Darcy. Caroline Bingley eat your heart out.
The rest of their friends and family were delighted upon hearing that the couple was to be finally married. Lizzy and Darcy's sisters screamed when they heard the news. Mrs. Bennett fainted while her husband, brother, and sister-in-law smiled at the happy coupled. Mary didn't give two cents about the whole affair, and Lydia squealed with delight that her sister's soap opera life was finally hitting a happy ending. Charlotte and Maria were happy as well. Caroline was furious and would not accept defeat gracefully. Lizzy and Darcy couldn't wait to be husband and wife. They couldn't wait to maybe add on to their family. Only time would tell. Of all the mistakes that Lizzy and Darcy had ever made in their life, this was one mistake that they were willing to make again. It was above all, their favorite mistake.