Beginning, Section II

Chapter 15 – What happens next?

Posted on Monday, 21 November 2005

Elizabeth still felt the kiss on her lips the next day as she and Mr Darcy were driving towards Mr Bingley’s residence where they had earlier located her family to be staying. The night before had been a revelation to her, that a touch or a kiss could stir up feelings she never knew existed. Her heart still thundered inside as her mind remembered over the feelings that occupied her mind, she glanced at Darcy for first time that morning only to find him staring thoughtfully at her, she coloured immediately and looked away, she could only but guess what he was thinking, was she a wanton had she let her guard down too much that he no longer respected her, and what was his plans in the future and could they possible include her. Her own thoughts were disturbed when Darcy finally addressed her. “Elizabeth you are too quiet, are you unwell?”

Elizabeth looked at him again and again her breath abandoned her, “I am fine Mr Darcy” she replied. Darcy didn’t know whether to be displeased at the formal title she addressed him with,

“Please call me Fitzwilliam”

Elizabeth heart was still pounding “Sir, I believe that to be to informal after such a short acquaintance, would it not seem strange to our respective families.”

Darcy laughed, “Elizabeth you can’t think for a moment that the length of an acquaintance is sufficient criteria to drop informalities. No indeed I think it is the relationship between two people that makes the dropping of formalities possible and I think, no I hope that we now have a relationship where that is possible.”

Elizabeth gained her courage “And what is our relationship? I hardly know what to think about myself, let alone what your thoughts on my behaviour could be. Have I ruined myself in your eyes and will you abandon me as soon as you have united with my own family” She cried. Darcy took a deep breath and let it out slowly,

“Do you think I am the type of gentleman that would take advantage of a lady and then walk away?” he said calmly.

“How would I know, for I hardly know of your real character?”

“My real character, madam, you have seen for yourself over the last 5 days, deception is my abhorrence. Do you really think me of me as such a cad?” Darcy would have said more but the carriage had stopped and the driver had opened the door, he had a suspicious smirk on his face and Darcy guest that he had probably heard their conversation. He alighted the carriage and helped Elizabeth step out, he looked at her intently but she was no longer looking at him but instead past him with a forced smile on her face, he turned around to see a young women run down the stairs calling her sisters name. What in the hell had gone wrong he thought.

Chapter 16- Revelations

Darcy was forcefully removing Miss Bingley’s fingers from his person. “Miss Bingley would you kindly let me go, Miss Bingley I must insist you stop that at once I am more than capable at removing my own coat…. Miss Bingley.” Darcy said exasperated and at a loss on how to stop the attention Miss Bingley was administering on him. Gratefully Charles saw his dilemma and came to his rescue. “Caroline, will you see to the refreshments and ask Browning to see that the guests chambers are ready, as I am sure they are all hungry and tired”

“Of course Charles, anything for our returning hero,” she smoothly replied as she walked off into the direction of the Housekeepers small office.

“Sorry about that Darce, you know how she can be, but please come into the parlour I must hear of your adventure” Charles said as he smiled and lend the group to the morning parlour.

Once everyone was comfortably seated and the fuss of their arriving had died down Elizabeth noticed that her Uncle was not present. “Aunt, where is Uncle Gardiner?” There was a silent pause while her Aunt and Jane looked at each other with concern. “Your Uncle has gone down south, he thought he was going to bring back your…” and with another pause she completed her sentence “body.” We were told that all the washed up bodies from the wreckage could now be claimed.”

A shudder went through the room, but at that moment the butler entered announcing Col Fitzwilliam, however before he could finished Richard walked in and headed straight for Mr Bingley, he was about to say something when he spotted Darcy sitting on the couch in front of him. “Good God, am I seeing a ghost or is it really you?” He had turned slightly pale at first but his face transformed into a brilliant smile and his checks back into a health glow. “Darce, it is good to see you, but where have you come from? How long have you been back? Does my Father know?” The colonel would have probably continued with barrage of questioning if Darcy had not put his hand up to stop him,

“One at a time, if you please.” He grinned back. “I did not think I would be overly missed but it is good for my ego to see at least one person is pleased to see me.” He said stealing a glance at Elizabeth.

“Very amusing Darce, but you haven’t answered any of my questions yet, nor have you introduced me to the other guests.” He said looking at Elizabeth’s direction.

After introductions where made to the Colonel, Darcy explained to the captivated group what had happened, he saw the look of concern and horror when he told them of the small boat they had rowed ashore in, and watched as Elizabeth’s Aunt took hold of her hand to give her strength while their tribulations were divulged. He did not mention the sleeping arrangements in his story except for the part where the old farmer had mistaken them for husband and wife, he noticed Elizabeth’s blush which pleased him, he also noticed Miss Bingley’s glare of disbelief and then was shocked at her next comments. “How could anyone confuse Miss Eliza Bennet for your wife Mr Darcy, the farmer must have been a simpleton” The slight on Elizabeth’s character was not unnoticed by anyone in the room.

Darcy was fuming but did not acknowledge Miss Bingley comment but simply changed the subject with an apologetic glance to Elizabeth. “And how come you are here Richard?” he asked

“My Father received news of the shipwreck and we traveled immediately to Liverpool, it was not long after we arrived in town we met Bingley and Mr Gardiner, and when the sad news arrived that some bodies had been found.” He faltered and quickly apologized to the ladies for bringing up an unpleasant topic, “My Father and Mr Gardiner traveled together in hopes of bringing back your …. Well let us not dwell on that, we must send an urgent express to tell them of this happy outcome. I will have one of my Lieutenants go with haste.” He quickly left to complete this business, but not so quickly as to notice the stiffening of Darcy and the concerned look that passed between him and Miss Elizabeth.

It was not long after that, that Elizabeth asked to be excused to rest, Jane showed her to her room and once safely inside, both turned to each other and embraced again. Elizabeth finally letting her guard down broke down into tears. It took sometime to ebb the flow but finally she stood back. “You must think me very foolish”

“I think you are very brave.” Jane replied.

Elizabeth laughed and sat on the bed, there was a knock at the door and a small pleasant looking maid entered and told Elizabeth that a bath was ready and waiting for her. “A bath” Elizabeth’s repeated with a dreamy expression to her voice. Jane smiled and after retrieving clean clothes she showed Elizabeth to the Bathing Room, with the promise to talk after Elizabeth had rested. Elizabeth could not let her go without a small tease. “Yes Jane, I think we have a lot to talk about, especially about the way a certain Mr Bingley looks at you.” She allowed herself to giggle while Jane went bright red. “I thought so, he has become a favourite of yours I think?” Jane refused to answer the question and quickly left the room.

After her bath Elizabeth went back to her room and fell asleep on the bed, she must have slept for hours as it was near dark when Mrs Gardiner knocked at the door asking her if she wanted dinner sent to her room or would she prefer to dine with the household. Elizabeth wanted to ask if Mr Darcy was still in the house but didn’t know how to ask the question without raising suspicion, her Aunt however mentioned that Mr Darcy was to dine with them that night and had inquired himself how she was feeling. This momentarily pleased Elizabeth but then the scene of Miss Bingley warm embrace of Darcy and their conversation in the carriage snapped back into her mind. Elizabeth begged to have dinner in her room and wondered if Jane could keep her company. Mrs Gardiner agreed and left to pass on the message.

Jane arrived a few minutes later followed by a maid carrying a large tray filled with food, after eating the plates bare the two sisters talked into the small hours, Jane had told Elizabeth about fainting on the Docks and Mr Bingley bringing them back to his own accommodations, his insistence that they stay there while Mr Gardiner left to take care of business and how very pleasant he had been.

“Well Jane, I have missed one sister’s wedding but I hope another may come up quickly as not to miss a second.” Elizabeth teased, Jane blushed and refused to answer anymore questions about Mr Bingley. Elizabeth still feeling uneasy about Mr Darcy relationship with Miss Bingley wanted to broach the subject and decided to remain calm and casual. “Miss Bingley must be pleased to see her fiancée back and in good health”

Jane gave her a hard stare “I think you are mistaken Elizabeth, Miss Bingley and Mr Darcy are not engaged, Did Mr Darcy tell you that he was?

“Well no,” Elizabeth admitted. “It was just that Miss Bingley seemed awfully familiar with him as if there was some understanding.”

Jane watched as Elizabeth’s cheeks washed over with colour. “From what Mr Bingley told me, Caroline hopes that one day Mr Darcy will propose but he doubts this will ever happen, but Elizabeth I must warn you to be on guard, for I believe that there is a family obligation for him to marry one of his cousins.”

Elizabeth did not reply to Jane and was deep in contemplation. Jane saw this and withdrew from the room as quietly has she could. It was not long after Jane had left that Elizabeth realized she had gone she sighed to herself as she blew out her candle sending the room into complete darkness.

The next morning brought news that her Uncle to Lord Matlock would be returning later that night and they were both extremely happy on receiving the happy express. After breakfast Aunt Gardiner approached both Elizabeth and Jane. “Well girls we must go shopping this morning and get you some essentials for Elizabeth.” She smiled warmly. Madeline had worried the night before about how to pay for these items as they had little money left and the traders in Liverpool would not likely take their credit being only visitors to the area, but Mr Darcy had foreseen the problem and had left Mrs Gardiner with a not so crisp five pound note. She smiled in the memory of Mr Darcy apologizing for the state of it as his pocket book had been drenched in the storm. It was only after constant insisting on Mr Darcy’s part that she finally accepted the money with the promise of repaying it back with interest. And it was only after reflecting on their conversation that Mrs Gardiner detected some partiality on his side and wanted to find out what Elizabeth’s thoughts were on the matter. It had worried her that Elizabeth had spent four nights along with the man, she had no doubt that he had been the perfect gentleman but if the story ever got out it may ruin her reputation beyond repair.

After a successful day shopping Elizabeth settled in the Drawing Room with Miss Bingley and her family, the latter eagerly awaited the arrival of Mr Gardiner, shortly after they heard the carriage pull up and expected him to arrive through the door at any moment. The door opened however not to Mr Gardiner but to Mr Bingley with Mr Darcy. “Good Evening everyone” Charles beamed. “I have persuaded Darcy to stay with us until tomorrow when we will all remove to London. For I could not have him rattle about in some hotel alone”.

Caroline looked pleased and Elizabeth did not know where to look but was relieved from further embarrassment when Charles handed her a letter which had arrived only a few minutes earlier than themselves. Elizabeth curious and wanting a reason to leave, excused herself and took her letter to read in the library.

Chapter 17– A Letter Arrives

Dear Mrs Darcy

Or should I address it some other way, for I think the title is not deserved, but then I reconsider my last statement, for any time spent with that man must need great payment for enduring it. So not to waste any more paper I put it to you straight, I find my self in need of a patron of great wealth to pay off some unfortunate debts I have incurred. Mr Darcy owes me and so will you if you wish to keep my silence, I saw you today purchasing items in the High Street, your companions were very pleasing on the eye. I must say it would be a great shame to drag them into disrepute because of your wanton ways. Anyway I digress again, if you can or with Mr Darcy’s help meet me at the Red Lion Tavern tonight with the sum of three thousand pounds for my silence on the matter.

My highest Regards.

Elizabeth physically blanched at the letter and her head ached beyond help. The letter implied so much, Wickham had guessed their real situation, he knew about her beloved sister and aunt and she also knew that there was no way of giving him the amount he was demanding. Her thoughts went instantly to Mr Darcy, he would know what to do, but could she bring herself to involve him, surely she had no choice as it was also his reputation at risk, she sighed heavily to herself, society would forgive and forget his indiscretions within a few months, such was the way of this male dominated world but they would never forget her part of the affair. She thought of her sister and the affection between her and Mr Bingley, could that ruin her chances of a match made from love and respected. After much thought she knew it would Elizabeth despaired, she quickly went to her room and locked herself in, she knew all too soon her Aunt and Jane would call on her and she would have to rally her spirits to make them unaware of this terrible turn of circumstance. As she expected Jane’s quiet knock came, and after biding her to enter she put a smile on her face and hid her disappear.

“Uncle has arrived and is eager to see you, and Mr Darcy’s Uncle and Cousin are also here” Jane said partly as a warning, and partly to see if Elizabeth’s reaction could be gauged.

“I will be down shortly” Elizabeth started to say and then added, “could you help me with my hair I’m afraid I have quite ruined it” she gave a shy smile as Jane picked up a brush and a clip and fixed her hair with quick efficiency.

Jane noticed that Elizabeth put a letter in her reticule before departing to go downstairs but what most surprising was the big hug Elizabeth gave Jane, the sort of hug you gave when you were going on a long journey. Elizabeth’s strange behaviour was beginning to alarm Jane.

Once downstairs they were introduced to Lord Matlock who was a very jovial character despite his obvious need for proper social protocol. Elizabeth realized again that Mr Darcy was indeed from the finest circles England could boast and wondered if he could ever think of her more than a mere Governess with little wealth and no connections of importance. But what she most wanted was to talk to Mr Darcy alone and pass on the letter sent from Wickham.

Darcy had been watching Elizabeth and was alarmed at her pale features and her reserved manner, he was hoping that her wit and charm would win his Uncle respect, he also watched as again she left the room with the excuse of forgetting a shawl.

Meanwhile the tea had arrived and Miss Bingley was pouring the cups out and had asked Jane to hand them out to the guests, all but the last cup which was personally delivered to Darcy, she purred again to Darcy about what a great stress it was to have him missing and what a terrible time he must have endured, Darcy hardly recalled what else she had said for he slowly came the conclusion that Elizabeth must think that there was an understanding between himself and Miss Bingley. He cursed himself for his lack of foresight and struggled not to walk away from Miss Bingley and declare himself to Elizabeth right then and there, there was only one real reason he didn’t move and that was for the fact that she had not yet returned.

“Would you excuse me please Miss Bingley” he said interrupting her, and with that left the room, he did not know where he was heading and felt suddenly foolish as he stood in the middle of the entrance way directionless, he decided to find the library or study so he could wait a moment before re-entering the room, as he turned to find the library he came into eye contact with Elizabeth as she descended the stairs.

“Mr Darcy” she said in surprise.

“Miss Bennet, I trust you are feeling better after a night of proper rest and food” he said with all the gentlemanly manners he could muster.

Elizabeth did not hear him properly as she was forming the next question in her head. “Mr Darcy would you care to join me in the Library I have some important business I need to discuss with you.” Taking by surprise Darcy simply followed without thought of consequence.

“Miss Bennet, how can I help?” he asked simply

“You can start by reading this express I received a few hours ago.”

Darcy took the letter and read it and then read it again. “Confound that blasted man” he ranted as he walked over to the window, he then hit the wall next to it with his fist so hard that Elizabeth felt the pain to her very core. “I’m sorry to bring you such distress, but I simply could not think of who else could help me.”

“No, it is I that should be sorry Miss Bennet, this man is my problem and my problem alone, you will not be bothered by him again.”

“But what are you planning to do, surely you can’t have a plan already”

Darcy looked at her with a stare that almost scared her, “How was the letter addressed?” he asked

To Elizabeth’s surprise she didn’t recall and retrieved the envelope it had arrived in from her reticule, it was simply address to Miss Elizabeth. Now she saw what she hadn’t noticed at first, it was not addressed correctly at all and that Wickham must of hand delivered it himself. The thought made her weak at the knees as her mind went dark.

The next conscious thought she had was that she was lying on the couch being caressed by Mr Darcy, he was speaking hushed gentle tones, and when their eyes meet she felt her heart quicken. “Elizabeth” he spoke still in his hushed voice “We can fix this. He would have nothing to bribe us if we were to marry. I could procure a special license within a few days.”

He waited anxiously for her reply, he saw again all the emotions running through her mind as her eyes focused on him. “I would not have you marry me out of necessity” she said as she sat up. “How could I marry you for I hardly know you.” She said starting to get flustered as his unknown cousin came to mind. “I assume you are not already married but I can’t be sure. I could also assume a Gentleman such as yourself has obligations that can’t be so easily forgotten.”

Darcy looked confused, “I do not know what obligations you are talking about, for I have none that taking a wife would stop.” He paused realizing what she meant . “Let me put your mind at ease, I am not engaged to anyone at present, unless you say yes, and I have no future understanding with Miss Bingley if that is what you are implying either.” He was struggling to keep his temper in tact. “Elizabeth, I will overlook those remarks against myself if you will give me a proper answer to my question.”

Finally Elizabeth had had too much. “I repeat, I would not have you marry me out of necessity and I know that you and Miss Bingley do not have an understanding, but what about other obligations you may have with your family, have you not made it clear to the lady in question that you have no regard for her at all, or do you like making ladies fall in love with you for sport.” She stopped short and quickly left the room.

Chapter 18 – She loves me.

Posted on Sunday, 27 November 2005

Darcy fumed as Elizabeth’s harsh words sank in, it was not his fault that he was hunted mercilessly by ladies of the ton, if he visited every lady that had hopes of becoming the next Mrs Darcy to let them down gently he would not be able to do anything else. During his third rant around the room he came to a sudden halt, did she say “Making Ladies fall in love with you” did that mean Elizabeth loved him. Could it mean anything else, he was busy musing the statement again when his thoughts were interrupted by a servant entering the room to announce, “Dinner is served.” He glared at the unlucky servant and stormed out of the library.

Darcy entered the dining room quickly enough that everyone else who was seated looked at him in the strangest manner, only Elizabeth knew what could cause this change of mood, well she thought she knew. Elizabeth had been mortified at her declaration and had hoped that the comment was not picked up on. It pressed more on her mind than the note from Wickham.

Dinner was a jovial affair for everyone but the two it was in honour for; they both ate their meal quietly contemplating what was to happen next. After dinner the gentlemen retired to the library for a drink and to discuss matters too delicate for the ladies and the Ladies retired to the parlour for music and conversation. Darcy however partook little of the gentlemen’s conversation as his anxiety grew over the possibility of losing Elizabeth forever, if he didn’t act now all was lost. He filled up his glass again and walked over to Mr Gardiner with the decanter in hand. What was said was only for Mr Gardiner’s ears but what Mr Gardiner heard was enough to call his wife and Elizabeth immediately to the Study for a serious discussion.

Elizabeth looked nervous and Mrs Gardiner confused, “Dear Husband, what could possibly be wrong that you call us here away from our host and other guests.” Madeline inquired.

“Indeed my dear, a most serious matter has been told to me, one which I find needs immediate remedy before our niece is the topic of gossips most vile.” Mrs Gardiner gave Elizabeth a quizzical gaze and bid her husband to continue. He nodded and asked for a quick moment to get something. That something turned out to be Mr Darcy, Elizabeth’s eyes grew

“Mr Darcy has approached myself as Elizabeth’s closest relative in permission to marry her, as it seems that the two in attempts to get home passed themselves of as Husband and Wife and that an unwanted associated of his has this information and is attempting to blackmail them.” Mr Gardiner stopped and looked pointedly at Elizabeth to stop her speaking out. “Mr Darcy and I have had a long conversation and I am confident that his motives are genuine, and I, Elizabeth, in your best interest to save your reputation have permitted Mr Darcy the honour of your hand. He can procure a special license quickly and with your sister as bridesmaid we could have a pretty ceremony in a week’s time.”

Everyone could sense that Elizabeth was going to strongly object, her face has changed colour and her fists were clenched tight. Darcy was the first to break the strained silence, “Please Elizabeth may I explain myself for going directly to your Uncle”

“No” Elizabeth’s curt reply came, “You may not, I am not a child that decisions can be made for, I am quite capable of looking after my own affairs.” She watched as Mr Darcy turned his back and looked out the window. He stood there for some time then turned abruptly towards Elizabeth. “Mr and Mrs Gardiner may I have a few minutes alone with Elizabeth please.”

Mr Gardiner took his wife’s hand and gently coaxed her out of the room with a quick message for Elizabeth as he took his leave, “I shall be waiting in the hall for you my dear, listen to your young man for he has your best interest at heart.”

Elizabeth was seething, she had refused her permission for a private conversation and once again he had overturned her wishes to fulfill his own.

Darcy’s voice finally penetrated her thoughts, “You have every right to be angry with me Elizabeth”

“That would be Miss Bennet to you” she replied. Darcy sighed and poured her a glass of port and handed it to her, which she accepted without a word, he watched her gulp down the liquid in one mouthful, if he was surprised he did not show it, but he did refill the glass giving her a pointed look while doing so. This time Elizabeth sipped it and sat down.

“Miss Bennet” Darcy started again. “Please do not be angry with me until I have explained myself and then I will let you feel what ever it is you want to feel.” Elizabeth tapped her fingers against the glass impatiently waiting for him to start. Darcy was standing a few steps away from her, he couldn’t bear the distance and closed it quickly to be kneeling in front of her, he took her hand and held it tight. “I did not ask permission to marry you out of pity for your reputation, nor to save my own reputation. I asked for one reason and one reason only and that is because I have fallen hopelessly in love with you, from the first moment in that awful ship I held you, I knew that my life would not be complete until I could really call you my own. Please Elizabeth put me out of my misery and consent to be my wife.”

At that moment Elizabeth could no longer keep the tear that was teetering on her eyelash from escaping down her cheek, it slid slightly and stopped in a little drop on her cheek, Darcy watch its moment with such a mesmerizing fascination that before he could stop himself he dried the tear away with his thumb and gently placed a kiss where it had been, Elizabeth’s response was immediate as they drew together and kissed deeply, it was a release of anger, passion and desperation. This kiss sealed a promised of marriage that would be filled with love and passion and quite possibility a misunderstanding or two. But all that didn’t matter as both Elizabeth and Darcy coincidently thought at the same time that one week from now was far too far away. It was Darcy that pulled away first, owning a grin that was almost rakish “I take that as a yes do I?” Elizabeth pleased with herself decided that he was far too cocky, teased back.

“You presumed too much Mr Darcy, I need more convincing” Darcy raised an eyebrow but did not argue as he was otherwise engaged in more convincing.

Finally the decision was made and Darcy and Elizabeth thought best to let her Uncle and Aunt know of the situation before they came knocking on the door, and it was with great excitement that the four guests returned to an impatient host wanting to know if all was well.

After the announcement Caroline suddenly gained a headache and begged to retire early, her brother on the other hand was absolutely delighted and was busy planning the wedding. “Of course Miss Elizabeth would want her sister to be her brides-maid and if the good colonel does not wish to be apart of the wedding ceremony then I would be more than happy to be Darcy’s Best man.”

The Colonel good natured as he was could guess Bingley’s reasoning, but could not help himself and teased. “I’m not sure Bingley if I said I did not want to be part of the ceremony, I can’t ever remember stating my opinions on the matter” the look on Bingley’s face was one of utter despair that the Colonel immediately regretted teasing him. “But Bingley on second thought I can not guarantee that my regiment will allow me to be away so you would be the best choice” Bingley glowed and Jane blushed. Darcy was amused at all the planning but when the Colonel mentioned the word regiment Wickham came to mind, he quietly indicated to the Colonel that he needed a private word with him out of ear shot of the others and they both excused themselves quickly.

Elizabeth was filled with emotions, the joy of being engaged to someone she felt a deep love for but also the dreading nagging feeling of what she suspected the Colonel and Darcy to be planning in regards of Wickham’s blackmail. Her mind was not on the conversation of dresses and celebrations and as the minutes ticked by and still no sign of the two gentlemen, her distraction was noted by the others in the room but they all thought is was to do with the up coming nuptials and regarded her with some amusement. She did not notice that Jane and Bingley went to the coffee table and had been talking quietly for some time, it was only brought to her attention with her Aunt squeezed her hand and pointed out that Jane and Bingley were both grinning from ear to ear.

“Mr Gardiner, may I have a word with you sir if you please” Bingley asked as officially as he could.

“Certainly young man, proceed.” Replied Mr Gardiner.

Bingley looked a little sheepish and indicated that a private word may be more suitable. “Nonsense, if we leave that would leave the ladies with only Lord Matlock to entertain, I’m sure what you have to say can be said in front of them.”

“Very well sir, if you insist. I would like the hand of your niece in matrimony”

Mr Gardiner being in a hearty mood replied, “My dear Mr Bingley, Elizabeth is already spoken for, as you well know”

“I…I….did not mean Elizabeth sir,” stuttered Bingley in shock.

“Calm yourself, I was only teasing, it is probably a good thing that you did not have designs on Elizabeth, I’m sure she would test your easy going manners terribly” he smiled back.

Bingley still did not look at ease, “Your answer sir.” He pleaded.

“Of course you may, I could not imagine a happier union as yours and Jane. You have my blessing and that of my wife as well.”

Mrs Gardiner, Elizabeth and Jane all gave each other a hug and congratulated each other. Tonight would be a very happy night to remember indeed if only Darcy would come back to shear the celebration.

Chapter 19 – Wickham

The Colonel along with three of his trusted men and Darcy waited outside the tavern watching for Wickham, the Colonel had quickly formulated a plan that would see the end of Wickham torturing their family, it only depended on Wickham arriving at the at the tavern as the note indicated.

Finally, a solitary figure walked quietly out of the shadows and into the open door where only loud music and equally loud arguments could be heard, it was unmistakably Wickham even though he was in his civilian clothes. The Colonel smiled at Darcy, their plan was now made easier with Wickham out of uniform.

Earlier they had gone to Army Head Quarters, as only sentries were on duty it had been easy for the Colonel to gain access to the Clerks office, he found Wickham’s personnel file and removed the orders for him to travel to Wales, he then found a blank Deserter Form and completed it, stamped it and carefully tucking it into his pocket book, he then proceeded to find his men that now lay in wait for Wickham to arrive.

It took only a few minutes to surround Wickham and lay the charges of Desertion, Wickham had a smug look on his face, but paled considerably when he looked up and saw Darcy with his original orders in hand, he even faulted when those orders were flung into the fire and completely destroyed. The Colonels men shackled him and lead him back to the barracks to await trail.

On reflection the whole event went remarkable smoothly and without incident, the men had ignored Wickham's pleas that it had been a mistake and with the last of the goodwill that the Colonel could muster he planned on testifying on Wickham’s behalf that the best punishment would be for the Lieutenant to be transported to India and demoted to Private and that his life would be speared if he did not come back to England. The fact that a Private in India had the life expectancy on only two years did not way overly on either Darcy’s or the Colonels mind, Wickham’s evil had eaten through any compassion or obligation that might have existed from that point on. The truth be said all Darcy could think of was of his Elizabeth and their future together. He had a lot of planning to do in the next couple of days and with two tasks weighing heavily on his mind. One was introducing his sister to Elizabeth and the other was telling his Aunt that he was to marry, thus ignoring her wishes that he and his cousin would unite. One would be pleasurable and the other he was sure that the ripples would be felt for a long time.

Elizabeth and her family had been spared the details of Wickham’s demise and Darcy only told them he would no longer be able to inflict pain on his family which now included her own beloved sisters and relations. Jane along with Elizabeth had come up with the plan to hold a double wedding in Hertfordshire at the family church in Longbourn, this would enabled their other sisters including the now Mrs Mary Bradshaw to attend their happy occasion.

On arrival at Meryton the happy reunion with Elizabeth’s family took place. Mary had forgiving them for missing her wedding for she had quite altered since Elizabeth last saw her, she had a warm contented glow about her and her husband doted on every word, he had changed her from a book quoting miss to an excellent observer of life, and Elizabeth was pleased that Darcy and Mary could hold an interesting conversation between them, as for her other sisters they had grown up quickly as well, they were still keen on marring a man in the military but their loud exuberance had been abated and they did not once need reminding that they were in gentile company.

She knew with the help of her elder sister and their new families that the last two girls would be brought out next season and she had the best hopes of a good match that of cause would include love and respect. Elizabeth sighed a happy contented sigh as her Aunt walked past, they gave each other a happy nod and went back to their conversation.

Chapter 20 – The End

Both Elizabeth and Jane were a bundle of nerves the morning of their wedding, all the planning had been done and the Assembly Hall looked a very grand done up for the Wedding Breakfast. Elizabeth had taken great pains to look her best this morning and for once she was happy that her unruly hair had looked pretty even to her own eyes.

Her Uncle had had the great pleasure of walking both girls down the aisle and kissed them gently on their check before handing them over to their awaiting fiancées. With the service completed the Reverend announced to the congregation the new Mr and Mrs Darcy and Mr and Mrs Bingley, the crowd irrupted into a loud cheer and followed the carriages back to the hall for the celebrations to continue.

Elizabeth on reflection may have thought the whole event was a dream for she only really came out of her daze after the second Carriage ride of the day. Darcy had arranged for them to ride to a beautiful cottage surrounded by vast parklands and gardens where they could spend their wedding night alone.

“As you see my dear, there is not a lake or sea within miles of this place.” He said with a grin, “It took a while to find such a place where you will not have a worry in the world for I wanted all your attention on me.” He laughed.

“You, my darling husband, are too kind for you know you are my favourite topic, but I have got over my fear of water as long as I don’t have to be upon it.” She said with an equal grin and continued. “For I have heard from your sister that Pemberley boasts a lovely lake that commands the very best of views from the library, and I do intend on enjoying your library as much as I enjoy your company. So tell me Mr Darcy, are you not proud of me?”

Darcy’s grin turned into a smile, “I am excessively grieved” he said, enjoying the look of confusion on Elizabeth’s face. “ I am excessively grieved that you still insist on calling me Mr Darcy, for I am your husband now and would expect no other title than Fitzwilliam or dearest”

“And not esteemed one or Sir?” she replied in jest.

“Only around my Aunt if you please madam”

“I except your terms Fitzwilliam, but please don’t call me madam for I feel I am far too young at two and twenty to receive such a title.”

Their banter momentarily stopped while they were engaged in other more favourable activities and when it grew dark they walked hand and hand back to the house for dinner.

The next morning Elizabeth lay in complete bliss with her back to Darcy and the sunshine on her face, she was delighting in the feeling as he gently caressed her back causing her spine to shiver in ecstasy and the fine hairs on her back to stand up with pleasure, he then leaning over to kiss her on her check, his warm breath that played upon her ear reminded her of their first night together under the small boat in the middle of no-where, had things really changed since then. Her thoughts were disrupted by Darcy softly speaking, “Turn around my love and let me kiss you properly this fine morning.” Elizabeth was still very shy and turned slowly to ensure the sheet still covered her completely.

Darcy looked at her intensely as if attempting to read her inner thoughts, Elizabeth didn’t mind and she fell deep into his own eyes, a small smile graced her face. “Elizabeth” he asked “Tell me that I pleased you last night? Tell me that last night gave you as much pleasure as myself, for I know I am a selfish creature but your pleasure is far more important to me than my own.”

“Fitzwilliam, you are not a selfish creature at all, you are all giving and caring and I could not be happier than I was last night with you. You and I are meant to be, that I am sure of” Elizabeth exclaimed breathlessly.

“You were not as happy after our first time in Liverpool?” he asked with some trepidation, it had been playing on this mind that first night in Liverpool before finding Elizabeth’s Aunt and Uncle. It had felt so wonderful that night, it was impulsive and reckless but Elizabeth had been willing and passionate and had assured him that their actions that night was both wanted and had felt so right, even if her actions the following morning contradicted that statement.

“Fitzwilliam, I am truly the most happy women in the world, you have not wronged me in anyway, I rejoice in the fact that we found out our feelings and passions were the same, for it let me hope beyond hope that we could be together for the rest our lives, you are my one and only true love.”

Her statement however bold was finished off by Fitzwilliam with a long and passionate kiss.

The End...