Previous Section, Section III, Next Section

Chapter Nine: A Welcome Departure

Posted on Friday, 27 September 2002

Visits between Netherfield and Longbourn became a common occurrence over the next few weeks. The wedding was to be held early in the following month, a double wedding with Mary and Mr. Collins (who had returned to Hunsford for the next three weeks), and so Mrs. Bennet went into a flurry of activity. Elizabeth visited Jane along with her brother almost every day, and she learnt to enjoy even Mrs. Bennet's company, if not always approving of the way she acted. Lydia she found she could tolerate in small doses, Kitty once removed from Lydia's company actually became quite a nice young lady with a dry sense of humour which reminded her of Mr. Bennet.

Elizabeth spent quite a few afternoons in Mr. Bennet's company as he showed her through his small library, and he even took walks with her and his other daughters. Elizabeth was happy to note that Mr. Bennet started to appreciate his daughters, especially Kitty, more. The first time that Mr. Bennet joined one of Kitty and Elizabeth's walks (Jane was helping Mary and her mother choose between the different colours available for the Wedding Breakfast trimmings), Elizabeth was asking how Kitty had progressed with a new book she had lent her.

Mr. Bennet listened in astonishment as Kitty responded with some original and profound insights as to the themes and reflections on society the author posed. This led him to rapidly rethink his daughters, and Kitty especially. Towards the end of the first week of Jane and Charles' engagement, Elizabeth happened upon father and daughter in the small Longbourn library reading together. She was touched by the scene, and let them in peace, since they had not noticed her presence in the room.

Wandering about the house, she stumbled upon Lydia sulking. In the excitement of her two daughter's marriages, Mrs. Bennet had been somewhat neglectful of her youngest and most favoured daughter. Lydia had also lost her closest sister to the wonder of books and witty conversations, which left Lydia without a companion other than Caroline. Lydia and Caroline had never been very happy together, since they were constantly in war for gaining attention to themselves, especially from their mamma. Lydia didn't care two twigs for Caroline, especially since she refused to walk into Meryton with her to visit the officers.

"I am sure by now I should be grand friends with Colonel Forster's new wife. She looks to be such a jolly lady, I am sure she would be inviting me to all sorts of wonderful parties. If only you would come with me Caroline! Kitty is too dull now and finds books to be too interesting to accompany her best friend to see the officers. I am sure she will be reading Fordyce with Mary soon!" Elizabeth overheard Lydia exclaimed at one time to Caroline.

Elizabeth was for once thankful to Caroline for not indulging her sister in such an occupation, knowing that only tears would come about if Lydia were to become intimate friends with Mrs. Forster and the officers, since one particular officer (at least!) was not to be trusted with any ladies.

Of that particular lady, the less said the better, Elizabeth thought. Caroline was barely civil to herself, and gushed constantly to Charles, asking him how her dear friend Louisa and her husband and all her other friends were (of course referring to Mr. Darcy). The main reason for her incivility to Elizabeth was because Caroline felt that Elizabeth was keeping Mr. Darcy away from her because Elizabeth was jealous of his preference for her. That couldn't have been further from the truth.

Charles was expecting Darcy at the appointed week from his own return to Hertfordshire, but put off telling Lizzy of his stay, fearing how she would take the news. He therefore left it to the morning of the projected arrival of Mr. Darcy and his sister. Charles knew that she would be deeply disturbed. He was anxious to know why she feared his coming to stay- whether it was a dislike for him (which he highly doubted) or that she was still smarting at his insults, or simply if she was still too embarrassed by her own behaviour.

Before he could find a way of broaching such a disclosure, the butler entered with an express. Finding the Darcy seal, he opened the letter and was instantly disappointed at what it contained. Seeing that Elizabeth had also seen whom it was from, he read it aloud.

Dear Bingley,

I regret to announce that I must postpone my arrival at Netherfield due to unforseen business arising. I will try to finish it as quickly as possible, and hope to arrive, at the latest, the week before the wedding. Allow me to congratulate you on the joyous news, and let me sincerely express my delight at the prospect of being further acquainted with Miss Jane Bennet.

My sister, Georgiana also directs me to give you her best regards and I can tell that she is extremely excited at the prospect of spending some time in the country.

Please extend my compliments to your sister, Miss Bingley. I was surprised to meet Mrs. Hurst and her husband at a dinner party the other night (at Sir Walter Elliot's Townhouse). She informed me that both her husband and herself would be also journeying to Hertfordshire the week before the wedding. We shall be quite a party to keep your spirits up (if they need any propping) before your marriage.

Fitzwilliam Darcy.

If Elizabeth had known how many copies of the short note he had written before restricting himself to the short line about her, she would have been less disappointed. She would have been gratified to know also that the "business" Darcy was seeing to was the betterment of himself in society. The night at Sir Walter Elliot's had sorely tested his newfound pleasantness amongst his fellows, and contrasted starkly the simple Assemblies and parties that he attended in Hertfordshire. He was quickly learning that the society offered by the Ton didn't compare to the quiet (in comparison) evenings spent in the countryside. Especially in the company of the lady that was quickly consuming all his other thoughts.

He had found he could not face her before he had attended to her reproofs, nor before he had formulated a plan to win her- he had decided that much at least. But any thoughts that he had, quickly dissolved with other remembrances of looks and discussions shared. The scene in the library and their dances at the Netherfield Ball were often brought before him, but as frequently was the astonishment he felt when she had "rescued" him from Mrs. Brackley's young ladies.

Elizabeth had decided soon after the letter was read out to go for a walk about the countryside, and Bingley wrote a quick note to Jane explaining his absence for the morning, and quickly followed her. He found her briskly walking towards Oakham Mount.

"Elizabeth!" he called, puffing slightly at the fast pace.

She turned around in surprise, slightly wary of why her brother would be following her.

Once he caught up, he offered her his arm, which she was expected to take. Brother and sister strolled along the scenic route in silence for a few minutes.

When Charles had formulated a line of questions (and regained his breath), he began.

"You looked a bit pale before leaving, and I was wondering if you were feeling ill. We have not spent much time alone together recently."

Elizabeth smiled at his round-a-bout way of asking how she was. "Charles, do not think I begrudge you the time spent with your fiancé. I enjoy going to Longbourn to see Jane and Mr. Bennet and Kitty. I feel a slight headache is all."

Charles stopped walking at the top of the hill and let them savour the view silently for a few minutes. He then turned to her, and spoke seriously.

"Elizabeth, I am sorry for not telling you sooner of my invitation to Darcy and his sister, but I thought it would be for the best- it would allow you as little time as possible in agitating yourself over their arrival. It seems my plans were all for naught since they are not coming for another few weeks. If their, or his company is too distressing for you, I can find an excuse delaying their visit until the day before the wedding."

Elizabeth turned from Charles. She was grateful for his generous offer, but could not accept it.

"No Charles, I will not let you sacrifice your own friends for me. I am... I am not distressed about his, their coming at all. I simply have a headache and feel the need for solitude."

Charles, took her arm and forced her to look at him. "No Lizzy, you cannot lie to me. You are distressed, and I know it is because Darcy is coming. I want to know if you are more disappointed because he no longer is coming or that he is coming at all!"

Elizabeth coloured. How was she to answer something she herself did not know the answer to?

"I hardly know," she murmured, she turned again to gaze out at the view. She laughed bitterly, "I am so ashamed of myself Charles. I treated him abominably and accused him so wrongly- with so little foundation. I don't wish to see him again, especially with that look of pain in his eyes. I know he despises me now."

"It did not seem that way at Mrs. Brackley's party. He was more nervous than anything else. And you did not have to talk with him, but you did." He looked over to see her reaction.

She was staring at the landscape, but he was sure she was replaying that night. She smiled slightly.

"Yes, he did seem quite uncomfortable in those ladies' presence. It seemed that all the Caroline Bennet's in London had swooped down upon him."

She sobered quickly.

"But I am more concerned about you Charles. I truly hope that I did not damage your relationship. If I hadn't come when I did, I am sure he would never have said such things to you."

Bingley shook his head. "He would have thought them though, and ultimately it would have been the same thing. I am glad that you came when you did. I don't want to think about what would have happened had Louisa come to support Darcy in his attempt to show me that Jane did not care for me. It does not matter now at any rate. I do believe that most of the comments he made were due to his anger or frustrations over your speeches than any real lasting convictions. He called the last night we were in London and apologised most profusely." He chuckled at the picture of the proud Mr. Darcy bowing his head humbly in shame. "He was remarkably meek and begged my forgiveness whilst at the same time declaring it was impossible that I could forgive him. Of course I could, and did forgive him! He has certainly shown me a great deal of friendship, and the services he rendered me at College and after Father died, I will never forget."

Elizabeth had spent the last week pondering the comments Mr. and Mrs. Dixon had made before leaving the party and ventured to ask her brother how a person could be at times extremely caring and solicitous and at others overbearing and haughty?

Charles simply shrugged. "I can't answer you Elizabeth. Darcy has always been somewhat changeable- I think he reverts to his cold demeanour when in uncomfortable situations. I know that does not justify his behaviour, but are any of us less guilty? I become somewhat silly and talkative when uncomfortable. In the face of Darcy's behaviour you became arch and cheeky. Mrs. Bennet gushes when excited, Mr. Bennet reverts to his sarcasm, and Jane becomes solemn and quiet. Each of us has our own tendency to assume a behaviour when unsettled. And remember, he may have been preoccupied with his own thoughts- he did say that Miss Darcy's intended elopement had occurred recently."

Elizabeth looked in surprise at her brother's acuteness. She was again reminded not to take her brother lightly.

"I believe he needs to apologise to you and I would recommend that you think carefully over what he has to say. I also urge you to accept his apologies!" Charles chuckled again, "since he is still a close friend, and I would dearly love to see my favourite sister and best friend become very good friends. I have always wanted to introduce you to him. He has a fine mind and would prove a very stimulating conversationalist for you since you have left the lofty world of education."

Bingley smiled at Lizzy's blushes.

"But I know you have already crossed swords with him. Next time I shall leave the room and let you two sort your arguments out instead of trying to stop the argument!"

Elizabeth smiled gratefully at her brother.

"Thank you Charles. I am sure there are many brothers who wouldn't care what their sister's did. You have given me much to think on, and I promise you that in the next few weeks I shall think on them."

She took a final look over the wonderful view and then took Charles' arm and started walking back.

"Now Charles, since you have been most kind and selfless, I suggest we walk directly to Longbourn, and then send a message back to Netherfield for the carriage to pick us up in the afternoon."

Charles quickly assented to this plan, rather impatient to see his Jane again.

They walked on, but as they could just start seeing Longbourn in the distance, they noticed a young lady and an officer in a quiet conversation. Lizzy quickly saw that it was Lydia Bennet, and had the sudden certainty that the officer was Mr. Wickham. She quickly informed Charles, and they silently drew closer to the couple.

They need not have been so silent, since Lydia was (again) complaining loudly to her bored companion.

"Again mamma would not support me coming to Meryton to visit all of you officers. She is really quite tiresome! And Kitty is a regular bookworm now, Caroline is intolerable and Mary and Jane are so caught up with their suitors that a whole campful of soldiers could come into the county without raising their excitement!"

"Then you must be happy that I can contrive to meet with you Lydia."

Charles stiffened at the freedom with which Wickham addressed his soon-to-be sister. Lizzy cautioned him not to reveal their presence, hoping to gather exactly how intimate they had become.

Wickham was speaking again.

"I had heard that Bingley has come back to claim your sister. Well I'm happy for both of them. And for me- that Elizabeth Bingley is certainly someone worth speaking to!"

Elizabeth again had to restrain her brother from doing something rash. Elizabeth wondered how she had ever thought Mr. Wickham handsome or charming listening to him leer about her.

"Wickham!" Lydia pouted at hearing him speak of someone other than herself. "I shall not walk out with you anymore if you persist in speaking about her! I dare say she is pretty, but she has the money to be! I do think this bonnet looks pretty on me- Kitty could never wear it!"

Wickham nearly rolled his eyes at her search for a compliment. He happened to meet Lydia on a walk once, and felt that she would provide him with a bit of change from the tediously honourable brother officers, and the friends he had made amongst the tradesmen's daughters. It was a pity that Lydia had no money to make her anything other than a temporary diversion, because she would be quite easy to compromise. Of course he would then have to think whether he wished to spend the rest of his public life with such a woman- self centred and vain. It would naturally depend on how much money she could have brought him and how naïve she was, and perhaps the probability of his being forced to marry her if he did compromise her.

He was still hoping to come across Elizabeth Bingley on one of his walks. She would be one woman he would dearly like to have. She had beauty, brains and money. He was sure he would have been attracted to her without the latter- she was a fiery young woman who would give him a challenging chase- and of course, there was the fact that Darcy may be interested in her. He was very happy to hear that Darcy had not returned with Bingley. It allowed him a bit more freedom, and he had quickly used the blacker parts of the story he had made up for Miss Bingley's sake to turn the town's favour on himself. Many young ladies had mistakenly pitied him, which he had used to his own advantage.

But for now, he was providing himself with some entertainment by walking out with Lydia Bennet. She was sure to give him little details of her family's dealings as well as those of her surrounding neighbours. They had met two or three times in the last week, and he wanted to see how far she would let him take her.

He bestowed one of his most charming smiles on her, and boldly took her hand. To do her justice, Lydia was not really affected by his dazzling smiles- she was too preoccupied in wondering how many bonnets she could buy if she was as wealthy as Elizabeth Bingley. But when he took her hand, she was slightly surprised- not shocked- just amazed that someone would hold her hand outside a dance.

But he did not stop there. He slyly pulled her closer to him and happy that she didn't resist his slight liberties, and that she had been silenced for a while, he drew her arm through his own so that their shoulders were touching (or would touch, if she was as tall as he).

Elizabeth was too amazed at his forwardness to stop her brother from bounding out behind the tree they had been standing at, and demanding that Wickham release Miss Lydia this instant.

Lydia and Wickham were equally shocked at the abrupt arrival of Bingley. Wickham drew himself up slightly but still retained a hold of Lydia. It was only when Elizabeth stepped out to support her brother that Wickham quickly let go of Lydia, and bestowing another of his charming smiles on her, he stated that he had met Lydia along the path and had offered to escort her home.

Charles quietly asked Lydia to come back to Longbourn with Elizabeth and himself. Lydia resisted.

"Really Mr. Bingley you are a dreary fellow. Mr. Wickham and I have often walked together. It really is quite pleasant when one has no fun at home!"

Wickham grew slightly pale at this, but still affixed a smile, as if embarrassed by Lydia's coarseness. He certainly didn't want his up until now innocent dalliances with Lydia to affect his chances with Elizabeth Bingley.

"Really Miss Lydia! You do exaggerate."

Charles' face grew dark. "Since you will not give up Mr. Wickham's company, I ask that he also turn back with us. I am sure Mr. Bennet would be happy to see him." The thinly veiled threat rattled him slightly, but recovering, he replied that he would be happy to walk back with them, and fell in beside Elizabeth.

Charles was only slightly satisfied at having rescued Lydia from Wickham's clutches. He knew that Elizabeth would be impervious to his charms. But Wickham didn't know this, and so tried in vain to get some sort of response out of Elizabeth equalling that when he first related his tale of woe. But she calmly showed her disinterest in everything he had to say, until in a fit of desperation he tried to inspire her pity again.

"Did you see anything of Mr. Darcy while you were in London? Or did he snub you as being too beneath his notice? I know in the past he was ever the changeable fellow- always associating with those he feels are the top of society."

Elizabeth coloured slightly at this statement. To think that she would have easily listened to Mr. Wickham in the past merely because he couched half-truths in lies and flattered her! She was at a loss as to how to respond to his comments, instinctively knowing that if she gave him reason to believe that she welcomed his comments he would become eager to press his control over her emotions. But to refute his statements by defending Darcy may make it more dangerous for her. What would this man be capable of if he realised that she knew him for the liar that he was, and admired Darcy? What if he found out that Darcy admired her? Would he try to use her as another pawn in his endless war with Darcy? She smiled slightly at him to buy herself more time to formulate a disinterested answer.

"I did not see much of him." she expressed, hoping that she conveyed the idea that she did not care how much she saw of him. It was imperative that she protect Darcy from Wickham at all costs, but she could not let Wickham believe that she welcomed his comments. "He came to visit my brother a few times. They are such good friends." She shrugged slightly, "How are things with the regiment?"

Wickham was very dissatisfied with her moving onto another subject, but tried to be as pleasant as possible in his answer. And so they came to Longbourn, but Wickham declined entering to stay for tea, saying that he was surely needed for some duty at the camp. And Bingley really could not detain him without creating a scene. On Elizabeth's small signal, Bingley let Wickham go, but determined to speak to Mr. Bennet.

Bingley quickly paid his respects to the ladies of the house and quietly telling Jane that he wished to speak to her father, he went in search of Mr. Bennet to relay the conversation that he had overheard, as well as some particulars about how untrustworthy Mr. Wickham was.

Mr. Bennet heard what he had to say and became quite furious with himself for not keeping a better eye on his daughters. It was natural to wonder what may have happened to Lydia if Bingley had not stepped in when he did. And if not today, what would have had tomorrow or next week, since Lydia clearly did not understand the impropriety of her actions. He thanked Bingley for his intervention and alerting him to the problem and then bade him go and greet Jane properly. Mr. Bennet sat in his study quietly resolving on what he should do.

Elizabeth had much to think over- both from her talk with Charles and the encounter with Wickham, and so was much suited to sitting with Mary and Kitty. Jane and Charles talked quietly in one corner, he apprising her partially of what had detained them. Mrs. Bennet for once was not in the room since she was speaking to Caroline about some new tradesman who had come into the neighbourhood.

Once the Bingleys had left and the family was sitting down to dinner however, Mr. Bennet brought up today's event. Mrs. Bennet (and Lydia) sat uncomprehending as to the possible outcomes of what Lydia's carelessness could have brought about, but the rest understood exactly what might have happened. Jane was sorry that Mr. Bennet had to make Lydia feel uncomfortable in front of the whole family. Mary was thinking of some appropriate quotes to apply to the situation. Kitty was slowly working through all the implications, but Caroline was incensed. And felt no compunction to keep her anger to herself.

"Thoughtless Lydia!" she exclaimed, causing Mrs. Bennet to jump in her chair. "Why on earth did you walk out with Mr. Wickham? He is merely an officer- not worth the effort!"

"Caroline!" shrilled Mrs. Bennet, "don't talk that way to your sister! I dare say Lydia was bored at home, goodness knows she has been complaining a lot of late. I don't see the harm in a quiet walk between two friends Mr. Bennet. I do not understand why you have to make such a fuss over it."

Mr. Bennet never thought his wife so deficient of understanding.

"Mamma!" Caroline exploded. "If she had let Mr. Wickham do anymore, and they had been caught by those gossips we know Meryton to be full of, it would have produced such a scandal- they would have been forced to marry!"

"Marry!" exclaimed Mrs. Bennet. "That would mean I had three daughters married! Oh Lydia, you wondrous girl, I should have let you walk out more often! Mr. Wickham is a handsome young man, and perhaps we could get dear Charles to persuade that horrible Mr. Darcy to give him some of the money old Mr. Darcy bequeathed to Mr. Wickham."

"I fear, my dear, that again Mr. Wickham has played upon our sympathies and deceived us. He received a generous sum of money from Mr. Darcy quite a few years ago, and it has all been wasted on cards and horses and other more unsavoury habits."

"Mamma, do you not see how such a scandal would reflect on the rest of your daughters?" Caroline persisted, despite Jane's gentle admonishment. Seeing Mrs. Bennet's uncomprehending look, Caroline continued. "It would put a stain upon our family name, and no good gentleman would want to associate with such a family. It would mean that Kitty and I would have the little chance of marriage to a splendid fortune dashed. Mr. Collins and Mr. Bingley may even break off their engagements to Mary and Jane!"

Mrs. Bennet nearly fainted, but thanks to Jane's quick mindedness in providing her with her smelling salts, she merely shrieked.

"What?! How can they abandon Jane and Mary when the wedding is in less than three weeks? But is what she says true Mr. Bennet?" Seeing her husband nod somewhat reluctantly, Mrs. Bennet turned suddenly on Lydia. "How could you?" she demanded, "ruin your sisters chance of a marriage over such a penniless fool? You should have chosen an honourable, well off soldier, such as Captain Denny or Carter."

Mr. Bennet and Kitty rolled their eyes. Lydia pouted.

"I shall go to my room if you all look at me so crossly. It was a bit of fun- you have all been such boring people these last two weeks, I should not care three straws for you, and Mr. Wickham was so charming and handsome. I dare say we would have married, and then he could wear his red coat to the wedding and have an honour guard of his fellow officers with all their sabres drawn."

"Lydia!" Caroline stood up, "you stupid girl! He would never have married a little twit like you!"

Lydia's eyes flashed, and for the next few minutes there were some heated words passed between the two. Mrs. Bennet thinking over what everyone had said, decided that Caroline, being quite quick, was probably more correct, and so she sided with her. Lydia was promptly sent off to bed with the knowledge that she would be refused any outings until after the wedding, perhaps longer.

Caroline continued to vent her anger until Mrs. Bennet became too flustered and Mr. Bennet had to ask both Caroline and his wife to go to bed as well. The rest of the family did not stay up too much longer, all except Mr. Bennet, who sat quietly reviewing his own indolence with regards his daughters.

The three weeks before Mr. and Miss Darcy were to arrive passed quickly for Elizabeth as she helped Jane and Mary prepare for the wedding. Caroline too, was busy, as was Mrs. Bennet, at quickly informing their acquaintances how little Mr. Wickham was to be trusted, and the tradesmen in Meryton looked closely at their dealings with him and reports of debts started to circulate. It placed Mr. Wickham in a very bad light and Colonel Forster was forced to investigate (especially after a visit from Mr. Bennet and Bingley). Surprisingly, Wickham's friend Captain Denny (who really was no more than an acquaintance) was the first person to step forward to present evidence of rumours regarding Wickham's dealings with some of the local women. The evidence piled highly against Wickham and prompted Colonel Forster to quickly dismiss him from the regiment, and order to place Wickham in debtor's prison.

Wickham had felt the tide turning on him and quietly stole out of Town early one morning, taking with him quite a few valuable belongings from his former fellow officers. Colonel Forster quickly sent these officers after him, and about half way to London they found Wickham hiding out in a small town. They then escorted Wickham the rest of the way to Town where they saw him safely ensconced in a cosy cell.

Elizabeth felt great satisfaction at Wickham's removal from Hertfordshire and when she heard of him being placed under arrest, she was thankful that he could no longer importune anyone ever again. She started her own subtle campaign of turning Meryton's hostility towards Mr. Darcy (which had not changed despite Wickham being shown to be a liar) into a warmer feeling. By dwelling on his good points, Elizabeth came to realise just how many he owned and became increasingly desirous of apologising to him of her accusations and scathing remarks throughout their acquaintance.

She found a willing helper in Jane and her brother, and between themselves Meryton and the surrounding countryside quickly forgot Mr. Darcy's snubs and haughtiness and felt anticipation in seeing his tall and handsome (and wealthy!) features again in their town.

Caroline swelled with pride at the Town's openness and dwelt with satisfaction on the many admiring and jealous glances she would receive when she caught Mr. Darcy and his ten thousand pounds a year. Mrs. Bennet also helped Caroline daydream about her conquest- she had quickly forgotten how much she had disliked the gentleman and was again dazzled by the amount of jewels, pin money and consequence that Mrs. Caroline Darcy could have.

And so the day arrived when he was expected. Louisa and Mr. Hurst had arrived the day before, and gave their chilly congratulations. Louisa was barely civil to Elizabeth and the Hursts kept strictly to themselves, unless Louisa was speaking with Caroline Bennet.

Elizabeth had dressed in the pale blue morning gown that she had made in London the morning after their argument when she had been so distracted by thoughts of him. It was a perfect cut and enhanced her natural beauty. Even Louisa begrudgingly admitted that Eliza looked very well indeed. Charles shot Lizzy amused glances throughout the day as she started at every little noise outside. Jane had been invited for the day, and Caroline had tagged along as well, however unwanted her presence was. Charles knew that Caroline would not be the best person to have around when Darcy and Elizabeth were to meet for the first time in a month.

Lizzy distractedly turned the pages of a book she was attempting to read. There was a crunch of gravel outside and the sound of a driver urging the horses to slow down. Charles smiled widely, and stood up, offering Jane his arm. Elizabeth jumped up unsteadily, and then sat down again, in an attempt to seem unconcerned. The book fell to the floor.

The door opened, and Fosset announced, "Mr. and Miss Darcy".

Elizabeth slowly stood and forced herself to look upon him. Their eyes met and for a few minutes silence prevailed. Then reminding herself that she was the hostess, she moved to welcome them to Netherfield.

Miss Darcy shyly thanked her for the invitation and the welcome, and then looked to her brother. Elizabeth followed her gaze and moved to greet Mr. Darcy.

Colour suffused her cheeks; it felt like a very warm day.

"You are welcome back to Netherfield, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth said quietly.

Darcy had not taken his eyes off the beautiful apparition in soft blue since entering the room. Her fragrance wafted up to him as she stood in front of him, and he, drowning in the look and smell of her, took her hand and placed a lingering kiss upon the back of it.

Elizabeth felt that there were only two people that existed in the Universe at that moment.

He gently caressed her hand before reluctantly letting it go.

"Thank you, Miss Bingley," he said equally quietly. "I am happy to be back."

Chapter Ten: A Wedding- where to go?

Posted on Saturday, 12 October 2002

While our couple stood fixed to the floor opposite each other, the other inhabitants of the room were in various states of emotions. Jane and Bingley smiled fondly at the couple, seeing, if they did not, the love that flew from their glances. Georgiana Darcy however was standing on a strange threshold and felt all the awkwardness of the moment. Jane and Charles quickly moved to ask her to come in and sit down with a cup of tea.

Caroline's feelings upon beholding their greeting can be summed up in a few words: envy, anger and annoyance at being so ignored. She cleared her throat noisily, but no reaction was received.

The couple gently became aware of their surroundings, and both, colouring deeply turned around to see Georgiana already comfortably seated and sipping tea. Elizabeth was mortified at having neglected her guest.

"Won't you come in Mr. Darcy and have some tea or coffee?"

"Tea would be greatly appreciated." Darcy responded, walking over to greet Bingley and Jane and to offer them his earlier congratulations in person.

Once they were all comfortably seated, and Elizabeth had regained some of her equilibrium, she felt composed enough to inquire whether all his business had been carried out to his satisfaction?

"Yes, thank you, Miss Bingley. I am quite impressed with the amount of work I accomplished and am quite proud (with a small smile for her) of the fact that I stuck to it when I could have been more agreeably engaged with friends."

Elizabeth could think of nothing to say in reply- she was too busy wondering if he was referring to someone in London, or the fact that he would have been at Netherfield sooner.

Jane, seeing that Elizabeth was preoccupied, stepped in to carry on the conversation.

"I know Charles is happy to have you staying here with him, and I too am happy to have such a dear friend of his amongst us."

Darcy smiled at her and felt himself a hypocrite having abused her so abominably to Charles and Elizabeth.

"Thank you Miss Bennet. I feel I do not deserve such devotion, but I am very glad to be here amongst such friends again." He directed a warm look to Elizabeth.

She coloured again, and joined in the conversation.

"I heard that you attended Sir Walter Elliot's dinner. I have not had the chance to ask my sister how it went. Did you enjoy it? I have heard that Sir Walter is very attentive to his guests."

Darcy allowed a small smile to play upon his lips. "Indeed, he commented on the uncommonly pretty young ladies that were to be seen in London, and recommended certain products to be used by some of the ladies present to improve their complexions."

Elizabeth smiled at his dry humour. "And what product did he recommend the most, sir?"

"Gowlands."

"Really?" Georgiana exclaimed, having followed the conversation closely. Then becoming flustered at her outburst she mumbled something and lowered her eyes.

Elizabeth saw that Georgiana was exceedingly shy, tried to make her feel comfortable.

"Miss Darcy, why are you so surprised? I know quite a few acquaintances who believe Gowlands to be a saving grace!" This was all said with a twinkle in her eye and a smile to the young lady.

Georgiana at first worried that she had offended, saw that her hostess was teasing and relaxed somewhat.

"But I always thought buttermilk baths the preferred method." Georgiana teased back.

Elizabeth smiled slightly, and continued the game, much to Charles, Jane's and Darcy's amusement.

"Oh no, for buttermilk takes such a long time to prepare, and then you have to go through the process of splashing it on, cleaning it off, and repeating the whole process numerous times."

Elizabeth and Georgiana looked at one another and burst out laughing.

The noise made Caroline come over and having heard parts of the conversation, decided to turn everyone's attention on herself.

"Yes Miss Bingley, you may need to use Gowlands because of how much walking outdoors you do, but as you can see from my naturally brilliant complexion, I have no such need of artificial methods of making my skin look aristocratically healthy."

Darcy and Georgiana were affronted at Miss Caroline. Elizabeth was shocked that she would expose herself but really could only laugh to herself.

"Indeed, Miss Caroline, your complexion lacks nothing." Was all that she trusted herself to say, and seeing that lunch was ready, invited everyone in.

Lunch passed congenially enough. Elizabeth continued to become acquainted with Georgiana, and upbraided herself for again being deceived by Wickham. Georgiana was not haughty or proud, but being young and uncertain was naturally shy. Elizabeth took great pleasure in drawing her out and asking her opinion on music.

Darcy, although slightly jealous of his sister's good fortune, was nevertheless pleased at the blooming friendship between the two young ladies.

Caroline was seated across from Mr. Darcy and tried desperately to divert him with her attentions. Jane noticed how uncomfortable he was becoming determined that they would not stay long after the luncheon.

Bingley was sad to see Jane go, but reflected with joy that a time was fast approaching when she would never leave his side again. After saying tender farewells and arranging for him to visit Jane tomorrow, Bingley turned and showed Darcy to his rooms. Elizabeth also escorted Georgiana to her rooms, where they continued to get to know each other.

By the time dinner approached, Elizabeth had coaxed Georgiana further out of her shell. Georgiana was in awe of her hostess. Miss Bingley was a beautiful, witty woman who could make anyone feel at ease. Darcy noticed with pleasure the change in his sister's countenance over such a short time spent in Elizabeth's company, and felt so much gratitude towards her all he wanted to do was to ask for her forgiveness and her hand. But he was unsure of her reaction, and wished to prove to her that he was a better man for having known her.

The days leading up to the wedding passed quickly. Elizabeth was constantly helping Jane with the preparations for the wedding, and often brought Miss Darcy with her. Mr. Darcy was at first slightly worried, but Bingley assured him that Wickham was no longer in the area. Georgiana became friends with Miss Kitty and Maria Lucas. Charlotte came over occasionally with her younger sister, but seemed to spend much of her time with a certain officer. Elizabeth was very happy for her friend who seemed to be too sensible for marrying for affection. And Captain Denny was a fine young officer and had some independent money of his own, apart from his military wages, so he could afford to keep her in the same style to which she had become accustomed with her father's elevation, whilst giving her some excitement from moving about with a regiment.

Jane often thought that Elizabeth should be her maid of honour, since she did most of the work. Caroline was often out with Mrs. Bennet seeing if anyone new and eligible had come to the neighbourhood, for Mr. Darcy rarely visiting Longbourn. Jane was always on the verge of changing her maid of honour, when her duty to her family, not to mention keeping the peace, required that Caroline be her closest friend on such a day. Ever since Caroline had figured out that Mr. Darcy would be Charles' best man, she had been adamant that only she could be the maid of honour. Jane sighed, but contented herself with the knowledge that Elizabeth was not the least bit jealous (well, not too much), and that she would be her sister very soon.

Miss Darcy was slowly becoming less awkward in society, Kitty introduced Georgiana to her father and to the astonishment of his daughters, he quickly befriended her. Lydia did not care for the latest arrival in their social circle, especially when Georgiana refused to agree with her on a particular bonnet looking better on her than it did on Kitty. Lydia was still in disgrace with her family and Mr. Bennet had refused her all sorts of outings, the first outing she would be allowed to go to would be the weddings.

Caroline and Lydia each gave each other a wide berth, not trusting to be civil with each other. Even Mrs. Bennet was quickly losing patience with her youngest. Mr. Bennet, annoyed with both their childishness, often amused himself with the idea of letting them punish themselves by making Caroline and Lydia share the same room- Kitty was quickly becoming sick of hearing Lydia's many complaints. There was an advantage to having two daughters marry and move away- it allowed more rooms to be freed up, both Mary and Jane having a separate bedroom, which meant that Kitty could have her choice of another room so as not to be stuck with Lydia's grumblings throughout the night.

Darcy, however, had the greatest shock upon his return to Hertfordshire. He had been most concerned about how he would be able to remove the county's bad impression of himself, and yet it seemed someone else had done it for him! Neither Bingley, Jane nor Elizabeth would tell him how this had been accomplished, or why it had been done. Nevertheless, he accepted it gratefully and proved to the skeptical inhabitants that he was a man changed.

The person to whom he most wished to show his new behaviour was the most cognisant of the change. Elizabeth daily interacted with him and soon realised that he was one of the best gentleman of her acquaintance. Seeing his kindness to his sister, which Georgiana simply took for granted as always being present, presented a new side to his character- that of a responsible and generous guardian. To think he had many people within his care as a great landholder in Derbyshire! How many more people were reliant on his goodwill and charity?

On the morning before the wedding was to take place, Elizabeth and Georgiana set off for Longbourn, leaving Charles and Darcy to potter about Netherfield trying to keep their minds off the ladies that had captured their hearts. Seeing that Charles had quickly succumbed to the temptation of lolling about the house with a silly grin on his face, Darcy decided that he needed to purchase a few things, for Georgiana and he were to leave shortly after the wedding ceremony since the newlyweds were leaving to go to Italy for their wedding tour.

He set off at a quick pace, driving away thoughts of anything but the rhythm of his horse's hooves against the hard packed dirt. Entering the environs of Meryton, he slowed his pace into an easy trot and stopped at the front of the local bookstore. Darcy was not a person to whom shopping was an exciting experience, but he always found that if he stopped and browsed through a bookstore first, the rest of the shopping trip could be born with a degree of cheerfulness.

Nodding to the owner, a Mr. Harrod, Darcy inquired about the latest books and quickly became absorbed in analysing which ones he should buy, and for whom. Being very methodical, he had quickly sorted at least ten books into four piles. One pile for those books not worth buying, one for books he was interested in, one for Georgiana, and another for... well... for another person of his acquaintance that he knew appreciated reading and libraries. He had already separated a few books out into her pile before being fully aware of what he was doing, and he could not resist the temptation to leave them piled. He did not have to buy them in any event- he just wished to leave them there as a sort of day dream where he could believe that he had the pleasure and the right to buy her books whenever he pleased.

Thoughts of books were soon driven from his mind however, as three young ladies entered the room. It was a slip into his old habits that made him move further into the store to avoid being seen. He was not sorry for it as he found to his amazement that he was the eventual topic of the young ladies' conversation. He strained to hear their conversation and quickly identified the speakers as Miss Lucas and her sister, Maria, and Miss Mary Bennet.

"Mary you must be excited about tomorrow!" Maria giggled nervously, the thought of marriage was at once both thrilling and daunting, especially when the husband was Mr. Collins. Well, she thought, perhaps it was less thrilling and more daunting.

"Hush Maria!" Charlotte scolded, "When her time comes, Mary, I am sure she will act just as you have. It must give you great comfort to be so well situated, at just nineteen too!" Charlotte would have been envious of Mary's good fortune, except her own prospects looked more promising currently than they would have a few months ago. She had seriously considered trying to secure Mr. Collins affections when it was obvious that Caroline wanted none of them. But Mrs. Bennet had been too quick, and Captain Denny removed all disappointment, and so Charlotte could sincerely wish Jane and Mary a very happy married life.

There is a saying that one marriage begets another, and Charlotte had reason to believe that her own wedding would follow shortly after this double wedding. She hugged to herself the knowledge of Captain Denny's warmth affections and application for her hand. He was at this moment going to her father to ask for his blessing. The wedding would take place as soon as possible, especially since the militia were being reassigned to Brighton. Brighton would be a wonderful place for her honeymoon!

Mary nodded knowingly at Charlotte, having been long aware of her more practical nature. "Thank you Charlotte, and I do hope that you may one day find another Mr. Collins to make you as happy as I am!"

Charlotte nearly laughed at the absurd notion. To think now, when she was so happily engaged to a man she loved, that her former self would have been able to calmly reconcile the notion of marrying for convenience. But she would not dare to wound Mary thus, and nodded pleasantly and changed the subject.

"I believe Miss Bingley is spending a great deal of time at Longbourn. Will she be there later today? Maria and I were hoping to call upon Jane and yourself to offer our congratulations and best wishes before the wedding tomorrow. I know that Maria would also enjoy speaking with Miss Darcy."

"Yes, Charlotte, both Miss Bingley and Miss Darcy had arrived by the time I was leaving, and they often stay til after tea. Depending on how much they can bear Caroline and Lydia's constant squabbling!"

"But is there a great deal of nastiness between the two do you think?" Maria put in, eager for a laugh over the famous Miss Bennet's fights, especially when it had arisen and no one had yet to understand the exact nature of the spat.

Charlotte made a shushing notion, but was also eager for the gossip. Mary sighed in resignation.

"Those two need to learn to control their emotions! You should see Lydia stomping about the house declaring how bored she is! And Caroline! With all her airs and fine feathers, declaring herself to be the next Mrs. Darcy and the proud Mistress of such a grand estate as Pemberley!"

Darcy started at this open declaration. He was not blind to Miss Caroline's pretensions but to hear it declared so openly by her was shocking. He would know how to act, and would enjoy putting Miss Caroline in her place for once and for all!

Meanwhile the ladies had moved on further.

"Although I do not believe that his intentions lie where Caroline would wish." Charlotte smirked. Mary could not help but smile back; she knew it was not right to gossip behind people's backs, especially family members. But these were two good, close family friends, and it was Caroline! Caroline who had to be put up with day and night for the last six years, ever since she came Out.

"No indeed." Mary rejoined, raising her eyebrow. "One does get the notion that Caroline has chosen the wrong sister to befriend in her campaign. Mrs. Hurst can be of no real assistance to her designs on Mr. Darcy, indeed, they may even hinder them!"

"Yes" laughed Charlotte, "I believe I may have detected him faintly rolling his eyes and shrugging his shoulders sometimes when in Mrs. Hurst's presence. Meanwhile, here is Mr. Darcy's sister herself in the neighbourhood. Quite the person to use as an arrow to his heart, and yet she fails to capture his sister, or himself."

Darcy started becoming extremely uncomfortable with the direction this conversation was going. He was nevertheless astonished at how free and open young ladies can be with each other. This was definitely something to be told to his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam when they next met. But Mary had continued.

"It is not by any want of trying on Caroline's behalf- she has, poor Miss Darcy, praised her dear, new friend to the skies, especially whenever Mr. Darcy is present, and yet Miss Darcy seems to take no notice of her and merely shrugs her off with the utmost politeness. If your theory is correct Charlotte, I would say it was Miss Bingley that would be prime suspect for being on the most intimate terms with the sister. For the brother, I should not attempt to determine."

Charlotte smiled knowingly. "Yes, Miss Darcy and Miss Bingley get along famously well. I am happy for her, since I know she derives little comfort from her sister, Mrs. Hurst. And now with her dearest brother getting married, she must face the harsh reality of being in the way of both couples. I know Jane loves her and would have asked her to be the maid of honour, but for familial duty. I am glad that she will get along with her brother's wife. But then who could not with dear Jane?"

Maria, not the brightest spark, was still processing the information of Miss Darcy and Miss Bingley very good friends, which may lead to Miss Bingley becoming Mrs. Darcy? Is that how it worked? Sisters determined whether someone was suitable for their brother? What if one had no sister? Maria was a tad confused by it all.

"But do you really feel that the charming Miss Bingley could marry Mr. Darcy?" Maria asked timidly. Shocking the three listeners.

"Whatever do you mean Maria?" Charlotte demanded. "He is a little guarded in company to be sure, but don't you remember the dance at the Netherfield Ball?"

A dreamy look came into the three young lady's faces, even Mary paused to wonder what it would have been like. They sighed in unison. Darcy blushed furiously. Had it really been that obvious even then that I loved her so much?

"But he was so disliked then!" Maria persisted, "Everyone was so affronted by his snobbery and arrogance."

Charlotte sighed in exasperation. "What about all that Miss Bingley told us of his wonderful, kind nature? And his behaviour since coming back has been all that is gentlemanly and considerate. Our father was delighted with his comments on St. James the other night."

"That is true, I suppose," Maria admitted reluctantly. "But how can one change so quickly? How would you know that he would not just change again?"

"I do believe that in essentials, Mr. Darcy is as he ever was. And according to Miss Bingley, who confided that she was afraid that he would not be very welcome when he came again from London, he has always been slightly shy and had some personal troubles that made him neglectful. She spoke so glowingly to all of town and the tradesmen in such a subtle way that within two weeks of her returning, before he arrived himself, that she had affected a total change of opinion." Charlotte smiled in amusement. She was quite sure by that act alone that her friend Elizabeth felt very strongly about Mr. Darcy. "She is a very capable lady."

"Yes!" Mary exclaimed. "She has even my mother asking her opinion on lace and finery, and, this is the astonishing part, mother listens to her opinions!"

The other ladies looked suitably impressed.

"But I really would like to find that volume. Mr. Collins stressed to me how wonderful it was, and how Lady Catherine had actually quoted from it."

Charlotte imperceptibly rolled her eyes. Mary had not changed that much.

As the ladies moved on, Darcy let out a slow breath and passed a hand through his hair. He had often wondered why he had received such a friendly welcome, and now he knew. Elizabeth had worked long and hard to efface any remaining censure of his previous behaviour. He did not understand it, but he wished to thank her. Immediately! Darcy quickly took his four bundles to the counter, paid for three of them and impatiently waited for the books to be wrapped. Once outside, he quickly mounted his horse and galloped off to Netherfield. He would need to change before seeing her.

As Darcy came closer to Netherfield, he paused a moment in front of the view of the house. It was a fine old estate, and the people in the surrounding village could be very nice and gracious in light of his past behaviour to them. He dismounted and pondered for a while the information he had gained whilst in town. To think that Elizabeth had spoken so glowingly of him warmed his heart and gave him confidence that his desire may yet be achieved. With only one day before the wedding, he was concerned with where and when he would see her again. He only hoped that she would visit him when she was in London with her sister.

With such thoughts as these, he was startled to see the object of his thoughts in the distance. Seeing a gardener close by, Darcy quickly led his horse over to him and asked if he would be so kind as to see the horse stabled. The gardener agreed, leaving Darcy to quickly catch up with Miss Bingley.

She was a little flustered at seeing him, and asked herself if this was the moment when she could finally apologise.

He bowed formally to her, and she responded in kind. He noticed her flushed face and thought her more beautiful than ever.

"I did not expect to see you here Miss Bingley. I had... err... heard that you were at Longbourn all day today."

Elizabeth smiled. "Yes sir, I was, but we finished our preparations early, Mrs. Bennet can be quite an efficient woman. And so I left Jane taking a well-deserved rest. Her aunt and uncle Gardiner, and their children, came today from London. They were extremely nice and Mrs. Gardiner worked wonders with Mrs. Bennet! There were enough people in the house by that time so Georgiana and I decided to make our way home. I left her having a little lie down- she has been a great help to everyone."

Darcy smiled. "And are you not yourself tired Miss Bingley? You have worked hard as well on the wedding preparations." He offered her his arm, praying that she would take it, even if she was not tired.

Elizabeth laughed gaily, and took his arm. "I am not particularly tired, although after all this bustle, I am afraid I may become bored with normal life!" Seeing Darcy's raised eyebrows, she amended her statement. "Well, perhaps not bored. It may actually be quite pleasant!"

Darcy smiled, and moved ever so much closer to her. "But you will be in London soon with your sister. Surely that will prove bustle enough?"

Elizabeth grimaced slightly. "Yes, I suppose it shall. No doubt there will be plenty of Balls and Assemblies and dinner parties to go to."

Darcy fought a stab of jealousy at the thought that some Officer or Gentleman or cad could be dancing with his Elizabeth by the end of the week. "And this does not thrill you?" He asked in an attempt to move his thoughts away from a dancing Elizabeth. A dancing Elizabeth in his arms.

Elizabeth paused for a moment. "I must admit London is not my favourite place. The Operas and music recitals are wonderful and I do enjoy having the ability to occasionally spend some time there." She smiled at him, "but I will admit to loving the country. So that is one vexation amidst all this happiness and excitement. If Charles was not getting married tomorrow, I would not have to leave the country for the city."

An idea was forming in Darcy's mind at her speech. He was extremely pleased that their views coincided so well regarding the city and country, and he wondered what her reaction would be to the wilds of Derbyshire. Then he remembered why he had come over to speak with her in the first place.

"Yes, the country can be the best place to be, especially when the inhabitants are as welcoming and kind as they have been to me here." He directed a piercing gaze at her.

She coloured, unsure of why he was saying it. She had never meant for him to find out her campaign to win the populace to Darcy's side.

But he was continuing. "I am very much surprised at just how warm my welcome is. I had not behaved well when last here, and as we both know, I think, people have long memories when it comes to slights and censure."

Elizabeth turned her face from him. She had no wish to hear his thanks. He stopped walking and turned to face her. He saw that she was uncomfortable, and he determined to leave his direct thanks to a time when he could better express it. Instead he made a general comment.

"I know that Hertfordshire society must have disliked the notion of my return and would have suffered it only for Charles' sake, and yet they are kind and welcoming. I am truly grateful, dare I say thankful, to those wonderful friends that understand my true nature and have tried to make my stay so much brighter than last time."

Elizabeth flushed uncomfortably, and was touched by his words. "I am sure your friends only did what was needed to repair the damage that they may have done last time. I am sure that most of the blame for the ill-opinions was caused not by your behaviour, but by their own misconceptions and slander."

Darcy couldn't believe that Elizabeth was trying to take the blame of his actions upon herself. His agitation at her self-condemnation can be the only explanation for his subsequent actions.

He grasped her hands, and drew her close. "Please do not excuse me and blame yourself." Elizabeth coloured, not displeased by his actions. Perhaps it was for the best that they stopped speaking in riddles and hiding behind civility.

"Miss Bingley, please, I deserved the censure. I behaved abominably- I cannot think of it without abhorrence." He paused. "May I speak frankly?"

Elizabeth nodded, looking up at him. "I was proud and you were perfectly right in most of what you said to me that day in London. I do not blame you for believing the rest. I am sure Wickham told enough truths to cover up any falsehoods he may have spread. If it was not for my pride and honour, I would have rid the world of Wickham long ago."

Elizabeth shook her head. "No, Mr. Darcy, you must not take all the blame- I was just as stubborn and prejudiced in my opinion of you. I did not care if you, a guest in my brother's house, were claimed a villain, I am sure I helped to spread the lies, I at least did nothing to counter them!" She took a deep breath. "I accused you unjustly and mistakenly. Please allow me to apologise, and do not thank me for something that had to be done." A small smile played upon her lips. "Is it not the hostess' duty to make sure that their guests stay is a pleasant one? If that means drastically changing the opinions of a few hundred people, why," Elizabeth declared airily, "what is that?"

Darcy marvelled at her playfulness. "Well, I will thank you, not only for charming a few hundred people and for making my sister's and my stay so comfortable, but for accepting my own humble apologies for what I said to you in London and in all my past dealings with yourself." He looked at her, "Will you accept my apologies? Can we start afresh?"

Elizabeth slowly raised her eyes to meet his, she had that same, small smile upon her lips. "I believe, sir, that would be a wonderful idea!"

And so saying, she withdrew her hands from his, and distanced herself. Sweeping into a formal curtsey, she exclaimed what a pleasure it was to be making an acquaintance of such a dear friend of her brothers.

Darcy grinned and made a very fine bow. "I believe the pleasure is all mine, my dear Miss Bingley." And so saying, he placed a very slow, very gentle kiss on her hand.

Taken back by her feelings for a moment, Elizabeth lost her witty rejoinder. Which gave Darcy the chance to place her hand in the crook of his arm again.

As they recommenced walking, Darcy broached the subject of Wickham again. He did not understand the exact details of why Wickham was no longer in the regiment.

"For I had been afraid that Georgiana was not quite ready to meet him again, and had planned all sorts of little excuses for her not to go to Balls and dinners and such if there was the remote chance that she would bump into him."

Elizabeth smiled. "Well, Mr. Darcy, it all happened one day when Charles and I were walking to Longbourn. Do not look so shocked Mr. Darcy! It is only three miles to Longbourn, and we were sure we would be back before dinner."

And so saying, Elizabeth told him of all her and Charles' dealings with Wickham, and his subsequent removal from the militia and current residence in a London cell.

That night, there was a kind of nervous excitement and anticipation throughout dinner. Georgiana was going to attend her very first wedding and was hoping that the simple, but elegant dress she bought would be perfect for the occasion. Bingley was an absolute wreck- he could not stop grinning from ear to ear and no one could get a coherent sentence from him. Mr. and Mrs. Hurst were merely impatient for the whole affair to be over so they could get back to London and continue on with their lives. Darcy and Elizabeth, apologies made and received, were happy to be in each other's company and quickly becoming more at ease.

Once dinner was over, Elizabeth led the ladies into the drawing room for tea and sweets. She and Georgiana talked excitedly about tomorrow and what they would be wearing whilst Mrs. Hurst fiddled with her jewellery looking bored, but was really quite jealous of the closeness of the other two and still put out about the wedding in general. At a pause in the conversation, she struck.

"Oh by the way Elizabeth, did I mention that you won't be able to stay with Mr. Hurst and myself after the wedding? We are expecting guests and then will be going on to Scarborough to visit his parents."

Elizabeth, shocked, looked to her sister and then to Georgiana. Words formed in her mind but she could not speak them aloud. Mrs. Hurst hid a smug smile as she watched Elizabeth open and close her mouth in amazement. Georgiana saw her expression and could not believe that a sister would want to wound and neglect Elizabeth thus. How was Elizabeth to find alternate arrangements at such short notice? Indignation for her friend made Georgiana bold enough to consider offering her a place at Pemberley, but she remembered that it was not her decision to make- she would need her brother's approval.

The men were not long in coming. Darcy found no fun sitting with one grinning fool and another listless, untalkative fool, and he was anxious for the sparkling wit and lively conversation he knew he could be part of in another room.

But Elizabeth was not sparkling when he arrived. Instead he saw that she was agitated and unhappy. She quickly moved away upon the gentlemen's arrival and started playing some music at the pianoforte. Always appreciative of her performances, he could not however fail to notice that she was struggling to keep her composure. Anxious to be of assistance to her, he looked at Georgiana helplessly. Upon her motion for him to sit beside her, he quickly learnt the problem. Georgiana also apprised him of her solution to the problem, and he quickly gave his approval, relieved somewhat of having to endure the questioning stares that he may have received had he initiated the idea.

When Elizabeth had finished her somewhat melancholy song, there was a polite smattering of applause. She stood up and slowly made her way over to where Georgiana sat. Darcy, seated on the other side of his sister, could see she was still somewhat out of sorts.

"Elizabeth," Georgiana started, "I hope you may join my brother and I at Pemberley after the wedding tomorrow. I would love to show you my garden and the many walks and views of Derbyshire."

Elizabeth instantly looked to Darcy to see what his reaction was. Seeing that he was happy with the idea, and that he smiled at her encouragingly, Elizabeth hesitatingly accepted and couldn't help throwing a look of triumph at her sister. Mrs. Hurst was again quite put out with Elizabeth. Bingley proclaimed it as a wonderful idea and then suggested that in a few weeks, he and Jane could come and visit Pemberley and then they could all make their way to London together.

Darcy agreed and all the arrangements were made. To Pemberley Elizabeth was to go.

The day of the wedding dawned bright. Jane was up early and prepared well in advance for the 2pm wedding service. Mrs. Bennet made sure to send her maid to Mary as well as Jane. Mary had never been her favourite daughter, but as future Mistress of Longbourn, Mrs. Bennet was especially pleased with her today.

In a house three miles away, Charles was nervously pacing, wondering for the hundredth time why they had not decided on an earlier wedding. It was 12pm now and he had been ready for a long time. Elizabeth was still getting ready upstairs, but she was due to leave with Miss Darcy to arrive with the bride's party. Darcy was calmly reading a book- at least to Charles he looked calm. In reality Darcy was extremely nervous about the wedding. To be his friend's best man was an honour he did not consider lightly. He thought with some trepidation the walk back down the aisle with Miss Caroline, but it was really Elizabeth that he was nervous to see. To have her standing close by at such a ceremony, it was a test for him not to ask her to make a third couple in the bridal party. Then there was the excitement that she would be travelling back with Georgiana and himself later that day to Pemberley! He would usually ride outside the carriage if it were a fine day, not being particularly comfortable being confined for too long, but he would enjoy travelling in the carriage today. He felt he owed it to his future guest to ensure her every comfort.

"Mr. Bingley?"

The men turned to see a vision in pale lilac enter the room.

"Miss Darcy!" Bingley exclaimed, "You look absolutely wonderful!"

Georgiana blushed and curtseyed, turning towards her brother.

"You look beautiful as always, my dear. I am glad there won't be many bachelors at the wedding. I don't want to spend my time monitoring who is talking to you."

Georgiana's cheeks became pinker, if possible, but she smiled winsomely and as she kissed her brother on the cheek, she murmured something that completely took him off guard. "No indeed, I'm not sure you would be able to spare any attention to attend to me at all. Elizabeth looks stunning. You will love it, your favourite colour is green, is it not?"

Before Darcy could recover, Georgiana had moved towards Bingley to offer him her congratulations and to tell them both that Elizabeth and she were ready to leave.

"Right!" Bingley exclaimed and quickly hurried out to say goodbye to his sister for a while. Darcy remained behind in the library stunned at his sister's teasing. Soon the sound of the carriage was heard at the door and it quickly moved away. Darcy had lost his chance to see Elizabeth.

When he did see her in the Church just before the ceremony started, she took his breath away. She was clothed in light folds of light green silk, which set off the slight red tints in her hair that was curled and cascaded down her back. Interwoven into her hair were little apple blossoms, and as she walked near him, he could smell the fresh fragrance of her.

"A vision is she not?" Charles whispered quietly behind him.

Darcy nodded slowly, finding his throat was dry.

Charles grinned widely. "I am the luckiest man alive to have her becoming my wife in a matter of an hour!"

After a momentary confusion, Darcy realised that whilst he had been enraptured with the vision of Elizabeth, Jane Bennet had been walking down the aisle, and it was about her that Charles directed his remark.

Elizabeth being maid of honour in all but name stood near the bridal party at the altar. She could not help but notice how very handsome Mr. Darcy looked standing next to her brother. As the ceremony progressed, Elizabeth concentrated in particular on the promises and vows. Would it be possible for someone to love someone to that extent- that no matter what happened, that for better or for worse two individuals would be as one? Elizabeth was thrilled and daunted by that sort of commitment. Looking at her brother, she wondered whether he actually thought about what he was promising, or whether it just came naturally to him to care so much for Jane.

The other couple at the altar seemed to be paying more attention to the words than each other, and Elizabeth wondered whether this sort of devotion to the written word would not be destructive eventually? If Mary Bennet and Mr. Collins, who both had an alarming theoretical knowledge, one day clashed in their opinions on the same text, what would happen to them? Elizabeth hoped, for their sakes that they would grow together in their opinions and would seek to discuss their differences without resorting to quoting from one book or a particular sermon.

All too soon the ceremony was over and Elizabeth watched Mr. Darcy escort a very pleased Caroline Bennet down the aisle. If it was not for the look of suffering tolerance plainly visible to all, except perhaps the lady and her mother, Elizabeth may have been slightly envious. Instead, Georgiana and she walked down after the bridal party and Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. The latter started clucking away with pride and gloating to all her nearest neighbours, including not-so-subtle hints at how splendid her second daughter looked with Mr. Darcy.

Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner came over to congratulate Mr. and Mrs. Bingley as Elizabeth and Georgiana were doing the same. Darcy watched Elizabeth converse pleasantly with the Bennet's relatives and was amazed at how easily she fit into the Bennet's family- would it be that easy with his family? But, Darcy realised, some members of his family were a little more... overpowering than even Mrs. Bennet could boast. Miss Caroline, or I should say- now Miss Bennet- was still firmly attached to his arm and Darcy was at a loss as to how to remove her. A large feather in the distance gave him inspiration.

"Miss Bennet" he addressed Caroline in his most charming voice, "would you like to come this way with me?"

Caroline's heart fluttered. Could this be the declaration? She willing allowed him to lead her away from the main group of people. Her heart pounded, this was her moment of triumph. They stopped, he turned to face her, she looked up into his eyes and he started to say something.

"I do!" she blurted out. Who cared about hearing the proposal?

Darcy quickly hid his amusement- it was obvious that she heard nothing of what he just said.

"In that case my dear Miss Bennet, I am sure Mrs. Hurst will be happy to take you back in her carriage. Thank you for letting me escort my sister and Miss Bingley to the celebration at Netherfield. There is nothing better than escorting those one loves best."

Triumphing over her look of outrage, shock and disappointment, Darcy quickly made his way back to Elizabeth, leaving Caroline to sniff loudly to Mrs. Hurst. She noticed the smug smile upon his face and having seen that he just came from Miss Caroline's side, she stepped out and greeted him, adding further fuel to Miss Caroline's fire of dislike.

"And what makes you so happy today sir?" Lizzy asked archly.

Darcy could not resist taking one hand and raising it to his lips. "Merely the fact that Miss Caroline Bennet has graciously offered to be escorted to Netherfield by someone other than me."

"Indeed!" Elizabeth raised her eyebrows in question. Darcy took her captured hand and placed it in the crook of his arm.

"And so will you give me the great honour of escorting you and my sister, of course, there in my carriage?"

"Nothing would give me greater pleasure sir. Thank you." Elizabeth turned and curtseyed slightly. She gave an impish wink, "I shall have to thank Miss Bennet when I get the chance."

Darcy laughed softly. "Yes do, I'm sure she will be happy to hear of your enjoyable trip home."

"So my trip home will be enjoyable will it?" Elizabeth asked impertinently, quickly losing any interest regarding Caroline in this conversation.

"Of course it will be!" Darcy exclaimed, pretending to be hurt. "I shall endeavour to entertain you handsomely on the short journey to Netherfield. It will give me a chance to practice for the longer journey to Derbyshire this afternoon."

"I dare say you do whatever you do handsomely sir, but whether that makes it enjoyable, I will not comment." Elizabeth's eyes widened at her audacity, but continued on, slightly flurried. "I will however give you a review afterwards and advise you on any points that you may wish to consider before the next occasion."

Darcy smiled warmly at her. "Perhaps you could give me this advice then, during the first dance?"

Elizabeth gently shook her head. "I do believe it is customary for the best man and maid of honour to dance the first together- after the bridal dance." Seeing Darcy's crestfallen expression (not to mention approaching doom that he had to speak with Caroline again), Elizabeth offered what comfort she could by letting him claim whichever dances after that he so chose.

"In that case, madam, I believe I will have the second and third dances." Elizabeth nodded. "And perhaps the fourth and fifth?"

She laughed. "I meant that you could choose any dance that you wished, not all my dances."

"No you didn't." Darcy disagreed. "Could you also please reserve the supper dance for me as well?"

"Sir!" Elizabeth exclaimed. "You know I didn't mean all my dances! I shall have to dance at least once with Charles, and then perhaps once with Mr. Hurst. I should like to dance with Mr. Bennet and perhaps Captain Denny. I am sure I should wish to sit out a few to talk with your sister and rest a bit." Darcy's expression of despair was priceless. "And really sir, you should dance at least once with Jane, and perhaps Mrs. Collins. Of course your sister will want a dance, and Mrs. Bennet will quite expect it I dare say. Then there is the dance with Miss Catherine and Miss Lydia may also wish for a dance. So I do believe you will be dancing more often than I!"

Darcy was turning purple in horror.

"Why dear Fitzwilliam!" Georgiana exclaimed, drawing near, "Whatever is the matter? You look quite unwell, shall we go now and have a little rest before the rest of the guests arrive?"

"Yes Georgiana" Darcy agreed curtly. He quickly told Charles that they were leaving now to prepare the servants for everyone else's arrival. And then almost before she knew what had happened, Elizabeth was firmly placed in the Darcy carriage, sitting opposite from Georgiana and next to Mr. Darcy! To make matters worse, he had not released her hand.

Georgiana did not know what to do. There was obviously a problem, and yet it was charming that her brother had unconsciously placed Elizabeth next to himself. But should she say something- would it make the situation more awkward? What had happened?

Elizabeth was in the same situation- she was trying to weigh whether she should draw attention to her hand being in his hand, and the fact that her leg would often brush against his. It really was quite a pleasant feeling, but she did not want to raise any questions or scandal by sitting next to a gentleman.

Darcy had been unaware of exactly what he had done, although he slowly became aware of what his thumb was gently stroking and froze. He stole a glance at his sister and saw her look of alarm and amusement. He tried to convey to her to think of someway out of this situation, but she shrugged helplessly.

Looking sideways at Elizabeth did nothing to strengthen his resolve to put a distance between them. She had her eyes half closed and could be seen breathing slightly heavily. If it were entirely left to him, he would guess that she was enjoying herself. Damn Georgiana being here! he sighed in frustration. It would make this slightly less awkward.

Since it was not very far from the Church to Netherfield, they had reached the house before Darcy had time to detach himself from Miss Bingley. He had to act quickly, lest the servants see them in such a compromising situation and cause gossip, so without waiting for the footman Darcy opened the carriage and leapt out. Shooing the footman away, he helped his sister out and then Elizabeth. Then taking both ladies' arms, he escorted them into the hall and then the ballroom.

They did not have to wait long for the guests to start arriving and in a matter of ten minutes Netherfield was quickly filled with chattering, happy people. Soon after, the dancing began and Charles and Jane, and Mary and Mr. Collins opened the set. Darcy was obliged to join the set with Caroline Bennet and Mr. and Mrs. Hurst joined in as well. Darcy was anxious to see who would have the privilege of escorting Elizabeth to the floor, and was relieved when he saw it was Mr. Bennet. Miss Lucas and Captain Denny (who had announced their engagement), and Miss Kitty and Miss Lydia with two other soldiers also joined in. Maria Lucas and Georgiana stood on the outskirts, both not particularly interested in dancing with strangers.

As soon as the dance was over, Darcy quickly escorted Caroline to the side and excused himself, rushing off to claim his first dance with Elizabeth. She smiled brightly at him and they moved together to form the next set. Mr. and Mrs. Collins, having danced the obligatory dance, decided not to dance anymore. Mr. Bennet was dancing with Jane and Charles had asked Mrs. Bennet.

"I believe we must have some talk, Miss Bingley. A very little will suffice."

Elizabeth laughed softly. "I will say whatever you wish me to say."

Darcy smiled. "That answer may usually suffice, but I particularly wish to hear your review of the carriage ride. I would like to know if there is anyway that I can improve?"

Elizabeth really could do nothing but blush and smile. He was uniformly charming! "I believe, Mr. Darcy, that a little conversation next time would be appropriate."

Darcy could not help but be a little disappointed. He had rather thought the opposite- he could think of many ways to pass the time more pleasantly involving no words at all.

"But," Elizabeth conceded, "It was really quite enjoyable all the same, and I have nothing to complain about."

The whole room was aware of how wide Darcy smiled at that moment, and he did not care. He was quite willing to let the whole of England know of his love for this amazing, wonderful woman.

"I do not believe I have told you how beautiful you look today, Miss Bingley."

Elizabeth's heart did a little turn. "Thank you." She said quietly.

Darcy smiled gently and let the rest of the dance pass in contented quiet. All too soon the next dance was forming and Darcy was torn. He did not want to give Elizabeth up, and yet, as she had pointed out earlier, there was a long list of other candidates that he should dance with. Elizabeth, too was undecided. There really was no one else whom she wished to spend any of her time, and yet she could not really dance more than twice with Mr. Darcy without raising speculation.

In the end the decision was taken from both their hands as Bingley walked over to claim Lizzy for a dance. Darcy in turn asked Jane, and both couples spent a pleasurable dance, Jane and Darcy chatting quietly about what Jane planned to do on her honeymoon to Italy. Charles was gently teasing his sister about Darcy and Elizabeth was quickly becoming redder and redder. It was a rare occasion that he had the advantage over her and he pressed it.

Thankfully, Charles stopped the dancing and invited everyone to sit down for a meal. Jane and Georgiana had set the seating arrangements so it was with pleasure that Elizabeth and Darcy sat down next to each other, quite a long way from Caroline Bennet.

Once supper was completed, half the crowd lingered in the dining hall, whilst the other, Darcy and Elizabeth amongst them, moved back into the ballroom. There were now only a few dances until Charles and Jane were to leave, and so they remained chatting with all their friends, slowly saying goodbye to everyone.

Darcy quickly turned to Elizabeth and smiled confidently.

"I believe you promised me this dance?" he offered her his hand.

Elizabeth smiled and shook her head. He could see she was going to say something witty and refuse, but all of a sudden she looked straight into his warm brown eyes and paused. Her smile slowly turned serious, her lips slightly parted. She was drowning in his eyes. She reached out to clasp his hand unsteadily. He in turn pulled her closer, and couldn't resist resting his hand on her lower back. Shocked by the pleasant sensation, Elizabeth allowed him to lead her to the set.

With a strange déjà vu, the first strains of the waltz were heard. Elizabeth and Darcy gasped softly, then smiled at each other. The other ladies flew into a frenzy of excitement, secretly congratulating themselves that they had learnt the waltz since last time.

Elizabeth did not know how she would cope dancing so closely to Darcy. Last time she had been angry with him, and she still could not resist him. What would happen now that she knew she felt for him deeply? What would happen now that she could admit that it was the man, not the dance that gave her a tingling sensation from head to toe, especially concentrated where his arm was now curled around her back.

Again, they both moved flawlessly together and created many jealous stares. The urge to rest her head against his chest was almost too much for Elizabeth. Darcy was struggling not to relinquish her hand and placing his other arm around her and drawing her closer.

From the sides, Jane and Georgiana watched in satisfaction. Charles soon came over to join them, and seeing the reason for their smug expressions, joined in the grinning. He leaned over to whisper to Georgiana.

"I do believe, that my sister will soon become your sister."

Georgiana just smiled in excitement. How she had wanted a sister all these years!

Another dance between our couple passed in silence, but it was punctuated with such little smiles of pleasure and longing glances that their eyes communicated volumes. With the last twirl, Darcy spun her around and finally kissed her hand.

Elizabeth surprised and breathless by the twirl realised then how much she cared for Darcy, and for the first time actively thought about what it would mean to be Mrs. Darcy.

They moved off the dance floor together, an unspoken agreement that neither of them would dance any more that day. They saw Jane and Charles quickly move off with bemused smiles as they near to where Georgiana was standing.

"Why does Charles smile so, Georgiana?" Elizabeth asked.

Georgiana was slightly flustered to come up with a reason, other than the truth. "It is because he is happy- he did marry the love of his life today, Lizzy!"

Elizabeth smiled. There was something that they were all obviously hiding, but she was too happy at the moment to care. To suddenly realise that you were in love with the most wonderful man was something that was hard to dislodge from her thoughts.

The three stood in companionable silence, except for the quiet whispers passed between Georgiana and Lizzy, and Lizzy and Darcy. Once the second last dance was over, they moved towards the entrance, knowing that by the end of the last dance Charles and Jane would be leaving.

The last dance was over. Jane and Charles were moving towards the door. Mrs. Bennet could be heard crying and lamenting the length of time that they would be away. Mr. and Mrs. Collins were also leaving for Hunsford and their farewell was short and proper.

Bingley and Jane, both wearing the most beatific expression kissed their relatives goodbye. Bingley warmly wished Elizabeth a happy stay at Pemberley, and a Mr. Bennet who was close to tears sincerely congratulated Jane again on her marriage.

Bingley then shook hands with his father-in-law and Jane went to hug Elizabeth and thank her for her friendship. Elizabeth couldn't help crying in joy that she was to have such a sister and hugged her tightly back. Darcy watched in delight as his sister also became a part of the small group, but Elizabeth gained most of his attention.

Jane soon separated and was handed into the carriage by Bingley. Bingley clasped his best friends hand and bade him to take good care of his sister. Both men turned to fondly look at Elizabeth.

Before stepping into the carriage, Bingley turned once more to his friend and smiled at the direction Darcy was still looking in.

"Oh Darce, you do realise you do not need my permission, don't you?"

"Permission?" Darcy asked preoccupied.

"For Elizabeth." Bingley prompted.

Darcy turned around stunned. Was Bingley giving him permission to ask Elizabeth to be his wife?

Bingley nodded knowingly.

A slow smile spread across Darcy's face. He clapped Bingley on the shoulder and urged him into the carriage where Mrs. Jane Bingley awaited.

"Thank you, I shall endeavour to presume upon it sometime soon. Have a wonderful honeymoon, I shall take care of your sister, never fear, we have a very extensive library after all."

He could still hear Bingley's laughter as the horses trotted down the lane.

Continued In Next Section