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Chapter 25

Will was in his own world while Lizzy pulled on him to come through the courthouse doors. He was thinking about Charles and Jane. Hoping that their weekend was going well and that the intentions of his best friend were happily received.

He was thinking that if they were to get married, that they would be one of the happiest couples in the world. He liked that. He liked thinking about Charles married and settled down with a woman he loves and who loves him in return. That just seemed right and to Will, that was all that matter. True love.

He kept feeling this tugging feeling as he was dreaming about true love and shook his head slightly to see Lizzy's cute face scrunched up at his not paying attention.

‘Will...' she hissed at him, ‘ listen to me! Charlotte and Dr. Collins are right over there. Come on!' She said in fiery whisper and tugged on his hand again.

As they walked closer to the couple standing by a closed door with the sign ‘Justice of the Peace' on it, Will scowled.

This was not a couple of true love. This was more a couple of convenience. Although what convenience to each seemed vastly different.

Charlotte saw Lizzy and immediately hugged her. She was dressed simply in a cream scoop neck dress and cream pumps. Her hair was pulled away from her face in a hair up half down style. Very Charlotte.

‘Oh Lizzy I am so glad you're here.' Charlotte said into her ear.

Lizzy smiled and pulled away to look at her friend.

‘You look wonderful. Feel okay?'

Charlotte nodded. Then Dr. Collins turned around and opened his mouth, never to shut it again, so Will thought.

‘My dear Miss Bennet! How are you? Are you getting married too today? Maybe we could have a double wedding? And then we could meet every year to celebrate this blessed occasion! Hello sir, my name is Dr. Bill Collins, I am a very highly recommended doctor in my field. At least, that's what my most esteemed patients tell me. Why the other day Mrs. De Bourgh told me that---‘

Charlotte put her hand on his arm which seemed to still him for the moment.

Will knew Charlotte from the pub and thought her very sensible and nice. But once her husband to be opened his mouth, well...he understood now Lizzy's apprehensions for the marriage.

‘Dr. Collins, allow me to introduce to you my boyfriend, William Darcy. William this is my mother's boss, Dr. Bill Collins.'

‘Pleasure.' Will said thought with no feeling of it.

Dr. Collins merely smirked and Lizzy's nose wrinkled in distaste at the sight.

‘Uhh Charlotte, when are you to go in?'

‘In a little bit. They are drawing up the papers right now.'

Lizzy nodded and slightly turned to widen her eyes at Will, who looked down at her and softly grinned, taking her hand and warmly holding it in his own.

‘How have you been Will since we last saw each other?' Charlotte asked to break the ice.

‘I've been busy, but always better when in the company of this lady here.' He said with a smirk, which deserved him a playful slap on his chest.

‘Are your parents coming?' Lizzy asked.

‘Yes they are. They should be here soon. I know that my parents will be happy to see you Lizzy. It's been some time.'

Lizzy only nodded and soon all four of them were looking around the vast hallway trying to figure out what to say.

Will had been paying attention to the hand he was holding and looked up to say something to Lizzy when he saw Bill Collins face light up.

‘You sir, you are William Darcy...the William Darcy of Pemeberley Enterprises?'

Will slowly shook his head.

‘Oh my dear sir, I must apologize for my earlier condescension! Why I had just the thought and mere realization that your aunt, Mrs. Catherine De Bourgh is well...your aunt! And here you are...in the flesh to bless us today with our marriage. I know that Mrs. De Bourgh could not be with us today since she is visiting her daughter, your cousin, Anne's house today. I am most grateful to have you witness our marriage. Indeed I am! She will be most pleased when she has heard of this. And I can---‘

‘Thank you!' Will interjected quickly before he felt his head ache, ‘ I believe that my aunt would be most interested in my coming here today, but I ask that you not speak of it with her. She is uh...quite detailed with me regarding her interests for others. I send you her wishes for you and Charlotte of your health and happiness.' Will ended tightly and tired not to look at Lizzy too much.

She was completely intrigued by the manner and mood that Will had appeared to be in. Not like himself at all, but rather what he used to be like. If this was ever him talking to someone she actually cared two pennies for, she would have been upset, but since this was Bill Collins, she didn't care. In fact, she had to turn away to hide her amusement.

Charlotte had to compose herself as best she could. She knew that Bill wasn't the most sensible man and that he was all filler when it came to anyone who would listen to his good fortune.

‘My dear, the time...' Charlotte invoked of him and nudged him to silence himself.

‘Oh yes my love, it is almost time. Ahh! I see your father and mother have arrived, let me welcome them!' And he was gone.

Charlotte watched him walk down the long corridor and then turned to see Lizzy's nose up in a wrinkle again.

‘Lizzy...' she started sternly.

‘My love?'

Charlotte shrugged.

‘I'm glad my parents are here. I know that the papers have been hinting about my getting married, but I didn't' want a huge wedding. I just wanted to get married. Oh but if they knew you were here Will...wow. They would have a field day I'm sure.'

Will raised his eyesbrows and crossed his arms.

‘What's wrong with you?' Lizzy asked him as she followed his action.

‘Nothing's wrong. I'm just standing here.'

‘Hmph.'

‘Don't worry Lizzy. We should be starting the ceremony soon. It will all be over quickly and smoothly.'

‘Charlotte, I'm beginning to notice-‘

‘Nothing. You notice nothing.' Charlotte said and then turned to greet her mom and dad.

‘Mom! Dad! I'm so glad you came. You remember Lizzy.'

‘Lizzy Bennet! How are you doing these days? It's been quite a while since we last saw each other.' Mr. Lucas said.

A tall man, heavy set and balding but with bright eyes and a wide smile, he was always entertaining.

Mrs. Lucas was a gentle woman, quiet, but happy still. Shorter than Mr. Lucas and even Charlotte, she almost had to tip toe to hug her about to be son-in-law. She embraced her daughter and greeted Lizzy and Will.

‘Mr. and Mrs. Lucas, allow me to introduce my boyfriend, William Darcy to you.'

‘A pleasure sir, ma'am.'

‘Ahh yes, William Darcy. You run Pemberley Enterprises correct? In fact I think I had a meeting at one of your companies not too long ago.'

Will nodded and smiled. He felt much more at ease with Charlotte's parents there.

‘Charlotte Lucas and William Collins?' A short and plump lady called out into the hallway.

They all turned at the sound of the voice.

‘We're ready for you.'

Jane was irritated that her zipper wasn't working with her. She wanted to look nice for Charles and was set on wearing this dress. While Charles was taking a shower, she was wrestling her zipper.

‘Damn! Why...won't...you......zip!' She cursed while tugging on the zipper.

Finally it worked with her and she was pleased.

‘Thank you.'

She then sat down to put her shoes on all while thinking about her time there so far.

She had been to Williamsburg many times before, but not romantically. This time was special and utterly the best time she had ever been there.

Friday morning Charles had picked her up and they drove down to Williamsburg holding hands and talking about what they might do when they were down there.

Once they arrived late morning, Charles and Jane checked into their suite which was actually one of the homes in the Colonial Williamsburg town. Later that afternoon, they ventured out to see around the town and grab some lunch. Charles had passes for seeing anything Jane wanted.

‘If you want, we can see Colonial Williamsburg tomorrow and today we could visit Jamestown and then Sunday maybe we could see Yorktown. How does that sound?' Charles asked her.

‘I think we should try that. Sounds like a plan to me.'

Jamestown was delightful what with the ships they boarded and the fort they peered into. By the time they finished there, Jane mentioned that there was still time to see Yorktown.

Charles agreed and drove over to Yorktown where they slowly strolled the streets, took pictures of each other, and entered a few shops along the way.

Jane smiled at the memory of such a fantastic day.

Then today they visited Colonial Williamsburg extensively. The governor's palace, all the shoppes, taking a carriage ride, and walking around the area holding hands...ahhh....love. To some it would seem a very lengthy day of walking and tiring easily, but for Jane and Charles, it was as if they had only taken a few steps out the door and then floated on a cloud.

They ate at Chowning's Tavern for lunch and now they were getting ready to eat at Christiana Campbell's for dinner.

‘The best for you my love.' Charles said before leaving her to get ready.

After Charles had dressed and readied himself, the two of them left their suite and walked down to the restaurant.

‘Did you have a good time today?' Charles asked as the moonlight shined down upon them.

Jane smiled.

‘Of course. I loved every minute I spent with you.'

Charles squeezed her hand and kissed it.

‘Is there anything you wanted to do tomorrow before we leave?'

‘Umm...well there was shopping I wanted to get done. I found a few things for the house and for Lizzy. I know that there was a book I wanted to get my dad and then one for the classroom. Let's just do some shopping up the street after breakfast.'

‘Fine by me. I was thinking we could have lunch here and then leave afterwards. I don't want this weekend to end so soon though. That's why I want to make it as special as I can.'

Jane rolled her eyes.

‘Charles, every night is special with you. I love you honey and this weekend that you have planned, has been more than I can saw with words. I can only repay you with love.'

Charles beamed at her and didn't say a word. Somehow what she said gave him a newfound confidence and Jane noticed how he sort of straightened up and walked in stride to the restaurant holding Jane's hand tightly. She couldn't see his face completely but as they walked to the entrance, the moonlight hit his face and a huge smile was seen.

Lizzy rubbed her neck as she took off her shoes and gently nudged Jack off her bed.

‘I'm so tired!'

Jack didn't seem to care too much and moved for attention by her side.

‘Would you like anything to drink? I'm making some tea.' Will asked as he entered her room.

They had just returned from Charlotte and Bill's after wedding dinner. Both of them were tired both physically and mentally.

Lizzy nodded her head and started to undress, while Will went to make two cups of tea.

A few minutes later, Will slowly walked in with two cups of steaming tea in his hand, watching them so they didn't spill.

‘What did you want to do tonight?' he asked, eyes not moving from the tea.

‘I don't care. Right now I just want to find myself again. I feel like after witnessing that today I lost myself. I think it ran to hide or something.'

Will looked up from after putting her cup on her dresser and laughed.

‘Well I'm sure you're around here somewhere. Oh there you are! How are you? You were missed today.' He laughed.

Lizzy only grumbled and took a sip of her tea.

‘Anything you want to do?' she asked taking another sip.

‘Make love to you.' he said seriously, he intense gaze not leaving her.

Lizzy's mouth was about to burst at the honest statement Will made.

‘Wow...no stopping you huh?'

He grinned and took a sip of his tea.

‘Well if you have something better in mind, then by all means, suggest it please.' He said and then said under his breath, ‘ but I don't think you could suggest anything better.'

Lizzy didn't say anything. She was too busy trying to forget the part where Charlotte and Bill had kissed at city hall and then a few times Bill moved in to kiss her throughout dinner.

It made her sick. She was only too happy that her mother wasn't invited to join in the "fun".

‘I remember my mom telling me that Dr. Collins had a patient that was your aunt. I didn't think anything of it at the time.'

‘Yes...' Will slowly pulled the word from his mouth, ‘she is my aunt in fact.' He paused.

‘But I don't socialize with her. I don't enjoy her company and since we were hardly ever close, I don't consider her someone to look up to.'

‘That's too bad sweetie. I'm sorry to hear that.'

‘Don't be. Every family has someone that just doesn't get along with everyone else. It's nothing I'm not used to.'

‘My mom seems to praise about her like Collins does. I've only heard her mentioned once though. Amazing enough. She only said that you two were related.' Lizzy neglected to mention the "rich" aspect.

‘I hope that's all you hear. My aunt does not have a good effect with people. She,' He paused again for the right words, ‘ she seems to think she has the best intentions, but really, her intentions are all self involving and not feeling towards others. However, she is my aunt, I do care about her and wish her good health and happiness, but not at the expense of others.'

Lizzy wished no more talk about his aunt, since he seemed to be brought down by the subject and instead moved to sit with him.

‘How do you feel about some dessert?' She asked in a low voice close to his ear.

Will turned his head to look at her with an uncertain look.

‘I'm not hungry though.'

Lizzy rolled her eyes with her face in his shirt. Not getting her intention, she tried again.

‘Not even for something as sweet as me?'

‘Nothing could be as sweet as you my love.'

Lizzy quirked her eyebrow up and was waiting for him to catch on. Without answering her, he stood up,grabbed both their tea cups, kissed her forward and went into the kitchen.

Not saying a word, Lizzy heard him cleaning up in the kitchen. She on the other hand sat there with her mouth open and shocked that he didn't understand what she was doing.

Was he not just saying he wanted to make love? And now he's cleaning? What the---

‘Coming?'

Lizzy looked up and closed her mouth when she saw Will standing in front of her with his hand stretched out to help her up. Having accepted, she looked at him wearily.

‘Where to?'

He didn't answer, only pulled on her hand and walked to the bedroom, shutting the lights off as he went.

‘To bed.' He finally said when the whole apartment was dark. Lizzy felt Jack brush past her to the living room with a toy in his mouth.

‘Bed?' she asked put out.

‘Yes. That's usually where one goes for the night.'

‘But I'm not that tired. Not only that but it's only 6.30. It's not late enough to sleep.'

‘Who said anything about sleep? I thought we were talking about dessert?' He said arching his eyebrow when he saw the light dawn on Lizzy's face.

‘Why you...' Before she could finish, Will's lips were firmly pressed on hers and she could feel herself being tugged closer to him, feeling his muscles rippling underneath him and urging her to come with him to her bed.

‘You're a very bad man Mr. Darcy.'

Will grinned at her.

‘Only better to please you with Miss Bennet.' He huskily said and shut the door behind her.

After dinner, Jane and Charles went for a walk. The evening was warm and Charles wasn't ready to go back to the suite just yet. As they strolled the other side of the street that they walked down before dinner, Charles held Jane's hand and stayed slient.

No words needed to be spoken, at least not yet. Tonight was the night. He was hoping that she wasn't expecting it, that it would be a complete surprise and most importantly that she would accept. He put his hand in his left pocket, feeling the ring he was walking around with for so long. Turning it on his pinky and grinning at Jane as they walked, she stopped him when they reached the park in front of the governor's palace.

‘Look Charles. Fireflies.'

‘Pretty cool huh?'

Jane nodded.

‘When Lizzy and I were kids, our family would visit here. Nick, Lizzy and I would chase them at night trying to catch them. Mostly Nick. Lizzy and I would just dance around them. Mary and Kitty were too young to dance with us, but they would certainly be entertained by us running around.'

She paused in reflection of remembering the past. She smiled.

Charles on the other hand watched her intently.

‘Dance with me Jane.'

Jane blushed and looked up at him.

‘Here? Now?'

He only shrugged as a response, as he secretly took the ring in his pocket and slipped it on his pinky finger before answering her.

‘Why not?' Before she could deny him, he pulled her into his arms and started to sway with her, hiding the ring and moving her slowly onto the grassy park.

‘The stars are out, the moon is shining, the air is warm and still the fireflies are out to dance with us...you're here with me...we're in love. It's a beautiful night to dance with you.'

Jane smiled into his suit coat and swayed along with him to the music of their hearts.

They didn't speak for a while until Charles looked up and saw the church on the corner.

‘Beautiful church.' He simply said. He turned Jane slowly around to look and she nodded.

‘It is isn't it. It's been there for hundreds of years.'

Charles paused and then kept dancing with her slowly. He looked up into the night and spoke.

‘A beautiful church for occasions I'm sure. Wonder if anyone has been married there.'

‘I'm sure couples have been Charles. It's a church.'

He looked down at her and smiled.

‘A church it is, a beautiful one at that. But never so beautiful as you my love. Did you like the tour of it today?'

‘Hmm...yes it was lovely.'

‘You know what would be lovely Jane?'

Jane looked up at him. She felt the constant energy flow between them and as she moved with him she couldn't take her eyes away from his.

‘What's that?'

‘You with me.'

‘We are together.'

Charles smiled and held her closer, his eyes closed as he savored the moment. The glowing light from the fireflies made it all the more magical as Charles thought with confidence what he wanted to do and say.

‘Hmmm yes we are and as it is lovely, I would much rather have you with me...' he pulled her away from him and smiled. He took switched hands with her and while holding her left hand, he slowly slipped the ring onto her left finger, still slowly dancing.

‘Forever.' He said and waited for her reaction.

Jane hardly knew what had happened as she felt the ring slipped on and she looked down from Charles's eyes to her ring finger. There it was. A beautiful emerald cut diamond solitaire accompanied with two smaller ones.

‘For our past, our present, and our future happiness my dearest love.' He kissed her and then looked at her tears falling from her brilliant blue eyes.

‘Marry me Jane. Be my wife and allow me the honor to be your husband...please?'

Jane looked from her ring to him and nodded shakily still overcome with the beautiful night. He was right, this was a special night and she was never to forget. Neither was he.

‘I will marry you my darling Charles! Oh yes!'

He then took her into a swoop around in a circle and when setting her down, kissed her soundly.

‘Thank you Jane. You're my beautiful angel. Thank you so much for accepting me.'

Jane kissed him and with no more words needed to be said, they continued to dance among the fireflies.

Lizzy was thirsty and crept from her bed as not to wake Will who soundly was asleep. It was nearly one in the morning and she quietly went to the kitchen for some water.

She pulled out a water bottle that she had in the fridge and took a long sip. Of course, unaware as to anything around her, she nearly jumped out of her skin when she felt Will's cold hands touch her arms.

‘Oh my goodness Will! Your hands are freezing!' She held her hand to her chest and wiped the water that she accidentally spit out from her chin.

‘Sorry darling. When you left, they grew cold.'

‘Right...' she said eyeing him closely.

Will moved towards her again and she quickly moved away from him.

‘You're hands are like ice!'

‘All the better for you to warm me up.' He said waggling his eyebrows.

‘Hmph.' She took another swig of her water and then let a little bit splash onto Will's bare torso.

‘Hey! It's cold.'

Lizzy only smirked and capped up the bottle. As she leaned into the fridge to put it away she felt something wet and cold on her t-shirt.

‘Ack! What the---‘ she turned around seeing Will was the sprayer from the sink lightly spraying her with the cold tap water. His legs crossed and him leaning on the counter with a sly smile on his face, he tried not to laugh.

‘So you want to play that way eh?' She said grabbing at the water bottle again.

Will shrugged and let another shower of water hit her on her bare legs.

‘Hey! Stop it. I'll get you, you little...' She then squirted some water at his torso again.

Will didn't seem so phased and instead paused before he let some more water hit her shirt. Her white t-shirt. Soaking her a bit more every time she moved a muscle, he was getting more warmer by the moment. Lizzy tried a few times more to get him wet and then they both stopped. Looking at each other, Will waiting her next move and Lizzy planning hers. He was blocking the exit to the living room.

So instead of getting more wet, she decided to do the smart thing. She moved closer to him, slowly.

‘Will, let's stop this. I have a better idea anyways' she said with the water bottle in her hands. She looked to be capping it up and Will slightly let his guard down. He wasn't really paying attention to the water bottle, so much as Lizzy herself.

‘I think,' she said as she was brushing up against his bare skin with her wet t-shirt on.

Oh goodness...no bra...he thought and tried to slow his breathing down when he saw the seductive look in her eyes.

‘That you should,' she said before kissing him on the collarbone and then moving to his lips, Will's hand released from the firm grip on the sprayer to a gentle hold as he gave into Lizzy's kisses with his eyes closed and a soft moan pushing through his lips but soon his attention was interrupted by the sudden gush of water falling onto his head, ‘ take a shower!' she finished with the water bottle over his head and her on her tip toes getting him wet.

After the water had dispensed she dropped the bottle and quickly moved to leave the kitchen, but Will was quick and grasped onto the sprayer and let it go full blast aiming at Lizzy. As she tried to move through the living room, Will sprayed her getting her wet and making her laugh. Jack was barking and yipping at her as she moved past him.

‘Will! Will...' she tried between laughs. As she was moving to her room, he abandoned the sink and went after her with a huge smile on his face. He chased her into the bedroom but was soon stopped by the door in his face. Jack standing next to him trying himself to get into her room, barking.

‘Lizzy! Let me in! Jack...hush!'

Jack stopped barking but yipped a bit and then moved into the living room.

He heard a muffled laugh on the other side of the door.

‘Promise that you won't spray me with water or dump water on me?' She asked sweetly.

‘Dump water on you?! Who's the one wet out here?'

‘Hahahahaha!' she let out.

Will smiled and tried to shake some of the water off his head. He then went into the bathroom to get a towel.

When Lizzy didn't hear him, she ventured her head out to see if he was there. When she saw that he wasn't, she opened the door more fully and looked out. Nothing. No Will.

‘Will?' she peeped.

No answer came from the hall or anywhere in the apartment. She then went into her room and shut the door.

A knock soon came after she went back inside and she opened the door.

SSSHHHHHHIIISSSHHHH!!!

Lizzy tried to recover from the sound and sudden cold feeling hitting her chest, hair, and face.

‘Ack!!! Will!' She said as she tried to put her hands up to stop the spraying.

Her hands felt the weird sensation of something heavy sticking to her.

Shaving cream!!

‘Why you little!' She began and jumped towards him but not quick enough since he moved backwards continuing to spray her with a laugh.

‘Will! Will! Plah plah..sto...stop it! hahahaha...stop!' She laughed.

He didn't listen and continued to back up until he didn't see her.

‘Lizzy?'

No sooner then he stopped and started forward, did he find her in the bathroom crouching down with her shoulders shaking.

‘Oh Lizzy! I'm sorry... I was just trying to have some fun...I didn't'

PLAT!! SSSHHHHIISSSHHHH!!!

Lizzy was laughing as she turned around from her position with her own can of shaving cream and hitting him square in the face and then putting it in his hair and then his chest.

‘HA! Got you RIGHT back! Hmph!' Lizzy said triumphantly.

Will started to bellow out laughing and soon Lizzy joined in. Both of them couldn't breath as they were laughing. Both their sides ached at the sight of each other. Will in his boxers with wet shaving cream all over in his hair making it stand up, his shoulders, it dripping down his washboard abs, his face covered in spots of pale pink cream.

Lizzy wasn't much better, her shirt was soaked with white heavy cream and the water earlier sprayed on her. Shaving cream all in her hair which made it mat down in certain spots, her face had streaks of it coming down her face mixed with her joyous tears. Her shorts were the only article of clothing wet with just a few spots of the cream on them.

‘Look at us Lizzy...oh dear...' He said when they calmed down. He dropped the can in his hand and poked his finger on her nose that had shaving cream dripping from it.

‘I know...we're a mess. Jack's the lucky one...he stayed away.' She said looking at him laying in the hallway watching them with a amused look.

‘I don't think he is...'

Lizzy gave him a confused expression.

‘He's not lucky enough to have to clean up with you in the shower.' He said moving in to kiss her.

Lizzy smiled and turned her back on him as she walked into the bathroom further to turn the shower on.

‘True...I am lucky to wash up with only me huh?' She slyly smiled lightly tapping her finger on his nose and lips with the wet cream.

Will's hurt look made her giggle and pull him into the bathroom, shutting the door behind them.

She returned the puppy look of hurt and started to take her wet clothes off in front of Will.

Will couldn't move. He watched her slowly take of the clothes and discard them on the floor.

His eyes never leaving her body, she tipped her foot into the shower and moved the curtain to allow her entrance in. She stopped, seeming to grab at something.

She turned and threw a pink loofah at Will who almost didn't catch it.

‘Want to help?' She asked her neck craning to see him quickly take off his boxers and join her.

‘Almost set?' Charles asked as he entered the suite.

Jane nodded as she picked up her purse and her sunglasses.

‘Good. Let's get going.'

They finished lunch and were returning back home. Hand in hand, broad smiles on each of their faces, their happiness bursting inside them, Jane and Charles were sad to leave, but happy to return in the future.

‘I believe that we should celebrate every anniversary here. In this very suite too. What do you think?' Charles asked.

‘Hmm...sounds like a great idea to me.' Jane answered.

Smiling love birds that they are, Jane and Charles checked out of the hotel and packed themselves in the car and went to the freeway to go home. Oblivously to anything around them except each other, although Charles is paying attention to driving ; ).

The sun was shining all weekend long. It was perfect as if made for them. Charles reflected as he drove to get to I-95 that he was the luckiest man in the world. He felt silly for being so nervous before in trying to ask Jane but it felt so right when he did it last night. Now they were engaged and they would be married soon if he could help it.

‘Jane?'

‘Hmm?'

‘When would you like to get married?'

‘Don't you think we should announce our engagement before setting a date? I mean I think we should at least tell Will and Lizzy. My family I'd like to have them know. And your sisters...ugh...they need to know.'

‘Right I know. I was just thinking though that maybe you had a special time of year you wanted to get married.'

‘Not really. As long as I'm walking down the aisle to you, then whatever season is perfect.'

‘Do you think after Robert and Marianne's wedding?'

Jane was somewhat shocked that Charles would think any sooner.

‘Uh yeah! I love you sweetie, but we need time to get things ready and prepared. Besides, that wedding is already in the works and I don't want to spoil it with having a wedding so soon before or right after theirs. Maybe we should have ours towards the end of the year.'

Charles began to sort of whine which Jane though was adorable.

‘Winter?? But it's so cold.'

‘All the better to plan a better honeymoon.' Jane said with a smirk.

Charles began to laugh and then he thought about how long away it was.

‘Okay okay in all seriousness, the end of the year is not too far away and not too soon. It's already the end of April. So that I think gives us time to plan and all that. I know though that I'm asking Will to be my best man.'

‘And I'm asking Lizzy to be my maid of honor. That was settled a long time ago. Do you think Caroline will assume she's in the wedding?'

Charles groaned at the thought of her.

‘I don't know. I'm sure she won't be pleased about our engagement. I mean she likes you, but not for me. Which we have dealt with before, but she'll want to plan the thing or she'll want to stop it.'

Jane started to giggle.

‘I think I can handle her dear. I do have four sisters of my own and a mother who can be quite difficult to take at times. Which by the way, she'll be overjoyed when she hears this. Hmm...maybe we should wait until we have a date exactly to tell my family and your sisters. Except telling our best friends.'

‘Agreed. I think they may push us to do things we don't want to do and I'm not going to stay around for that. I'll just whisk you away to Vegas if that's the case.'

Jane slapped him playfully on the hand and smiled.

‘You will not. We'll just refuse to get married that way, plan our own wedding like we should be and if they don't want to come...well...well hopefully they will.'

Charles chuckled.

‘Right right...good plan Jane.'

Jane stuck her tongue out at him and he tried to kiss her quick without losing control of his car.

‘Lizzy?' Will called out.

No answer came back.

‘Lizzy?!' He called out again.

Nothing.

‘LIZZ---‘

‘What?!' she came into the living room finding Will standing at the door with his jacket on and fumbling his keys.

‘We have to go.'

‘Argh! I'm hurrying I'm going. Just give me a minute to...grab my...shoe...shoes.' She said looking around and trying to find them.

Finally she found them and put them on, quickly said goodbye to Jack, and followed Will out the door.

‘You would think that being in such a small space, that I would know where everything is, but no! I always have to be losing stuff.' Lizzy said walking briskly to Will's car.

Will only grinned.

‘Well we're not late or anything, but I wanted to get this stuff before Jane and Charles got back. Buckled?'

Lizzy nodded her head and Will drove out of the parking lot.

They were headed to Target to get some small things for Will. This morning, Will was disappointed that he didn't have things for himself at her place and seeing that he liked spending time there with her, he wanted to get his own things there.

‘I just think it's easier and I don't need much. I can just place them in a small area. I thought for some reason I may of seen some of Charles things in the bathroom but I didn't.' He had said this morning as he was watching Lizzy brush her teeth.

‘He doesn't stay here very often and when he does, he would keep his stuff in Jane's bathroom. Not mine.' She said as she wiped her mouth from finishing.

Will sort of pouted.

‘Oh come on Will you can keep some things here. I have no problem with that.'

‘Would you keep your things at my place?'

‘What? Your house? I don't go there as much, but if I did then yeah. I wouldn't want to borrow your sister's things.'

‘She'd let you.'

‘I know,' Lizzy said exiting the bathroom and leaving Will leaning in the doorframe.

‘But I don't want to intrude. That's her stuff and I'd rather have my own anyways.'

‘I understand. You don't see Jane here much then?'

Lizzy shook her head.

‘She stays at Charles's house. Which is kind of weird because Caroline lives there and I would think that she would try and butt in on them all the time.'

‘You'd be surprised. She doesn't usually bother other people unless she has a self-purpose to do so. She probably sees if I'm there and then leaves them alone. Sick at the sight.'

Lizzy frowned and when Will didn't hear anything he embraced her into a hug.

‘I didn't mean it like you are starting to think. She doesn't want me for anything but attention and money. She doesn't have me, only you do.'

‘It wasn't' that. It was just thinking about Caroline. I see her at work enough, to think that when Charles and Jane do get married...she'll be my sister-in-law. That's a sour thought.'

Will paused and thought about it too. It was a sour thought. But nonetheless, she was Charles's sister before she was anything else.

‘Doesn't mean you have to do sisterly things with her. Come on enough talk about her. Let's get going.'

Charles pulled into his driveway and parked the car. Jane waited for him to get his suitcase and they entered the house.

‘Caroline?!' Charles called out. When he didn't hear anything, he went towards the stairway to go to his bedroom.

‘I'll be right back Jane.' And he left.

Jane went to the fridge to find something to snack on and then to the phone to call Lizzy.

‘Lizzy? It's Jane.'

‘Hi sweetie! How was your weekend?"

‘Very very wonderful, lovely, perfect, can't really say with words. Not right now at least. Are you with Will?'

‘Yeah we're just driving back from Target. Are you two back then?'

‘Yeah I'm over at his place. What are you guys doing for dinner tonight?'

‘Anything with you! I want details on the weekend. Did he do what we thought he would?'

Jane blushed.

‘I'll tell you everything when we see each other. I promise!'

‘Jane you're killing me here! Okay fine. Let's eat at---‘

‘Here. Meet us here. I'll make dinner.'

‘Okay. We'll see you in about an hour or so.'

‘Sounds good Lizzy.'

‘What do you mean by ‘did he do what we thought he would'?' Will asked as he turned into the apartment parking lot.

‘Uh...oh! Well I was thinking that Charles might have proposed to her.'

‘How do you come by that?'

Lizzy thought for a moment.

‘Uh well...it's because those two never went anyplace before and this was a romantic getaway weekend for them. They've been serious since I've known them and obviously they are in love with each other. I just assumed in my thoughts and shared with Jane that maybe he was planning on this.'

Will frowned as he turned the car off. He never thought about it being so obvious like that. He was sure Jane wouldn't think that being Charles wasn't planning on doing it at dinner or in public for everyone to see. He said he didn't want to get on one knee for fear of ruining the surprise. He wanted Jane not to know until the ring was on her finger. But how did Lizzy already know? Her reasoning was valid.

‘But maybe it's too soon. I mean, couples usually go on romantic trips without the intentions of that on the very first one. Right? Will? Hello...'

Will looked at her.

‘Right.'

‘What's wrong? Did I say something?' she almost whispered her last question.

He said no.

Lizzy was quick to catch on though.

‘Are you telling me without telling me that he really was planning on doing that this weekend?' She asked with wide eyes and a smile.

‘I'm not saying anything to you. You'll just have to find out tonight from them how the weekend went. Don't think you could ask me out for information.'

‘You do know!' She cried pointing her finger at him and blazing a bright smile.

Will tried really hard himself not to smile back.

‘I do not.'

He failed. Miserably. Lizzy was bouncing in her seat from knowing she was right.

‘I was right! I'm right I'm right! You tried to keep it from me you goose! You can't fool me when it comes to Jane.'

‘But I can fool you?' He said pulling the door handle to get out of the car.

Lizzy followed and continued bouncing around on the pavement while Will grabbed his bags and sauntered towards the apartment.

‘No you can't fool me. Not ever!' She said throwing her arms up and back down to her sides.

He paused and turned to her.

‘So you could never be fooled? If I were to propose to you say and it wasn't going to be the usual way, you'd still know it? You'd know right up to the moment that ‘that was it'?'

Lizzy looked at him confused and then waved him off.

‘Of course I'd know. A woman knows when a man is going to propose. Most men rehearse their "lines" if you will and then get down on one knee and say her full name with the ring in hand and blah blah blah...it's usually what they call a proposal Will. Isn't that how you asked Caroline?'

She kept walking, but Will didn't.

‘No actually.'

For some reason, Will's accent sharpened and his back straightened when Lizzy turned around to look at him. She didn't expect an answer from him.

‘Then how did you do it?' she was on the stairs going up to her apartment, but started to descend them and walk to where he was standing, looking serious almost proud.

He didn't answer her until she came closer to him. His dark eyes never leaving hers and yet speaking volumes of emotion. Her eyes challenged him.

‘I-I didn't ask her like that. There were no flowers, no chocolates, no love poems. I simply asked for her to join me for dinner one night and told her plainly that I wanted to settle down and marry. Since I've known her for so long and her situation in life was from a good family and disposition, she was the natural choice.'

Lizzy quirked her eyebrow and started to fume inside.

‘Natural choice?' She folded her arms.

‘I don't think that woman has anything natural on her or in her.' She stated firmly her eyes glowing.

Will didn't say anything.

‘But let me get this straight, just-just for the record,' Lizzy said with a hand in the air making circles, ‘you proposed to Caroline, because she was a "natural choice" (heh) and because you knew her and her family so "well", you felt the security you wanted from her? Am I getting this right?' She continued not letting Will get a word in edgewise.

‘So therefore you thought ‘hey I'm going to marry Caroline. She's the best choice, she's the sane choice, she's the "natural" choice.' She said, emphasizing ‘natural choice'. Will's eyes turned dark and guarded as he looked at her. Since she got no response from him, she went on.

‘Okay...?? Well I'm not sure if you got your head checked since then, but I'm not anything like Caroline and if you were to ask me to marry you, I'm not so sure I could being that I'm not the natural choice and all. I mean Heaven forbid I wasn't that!'

Will finally found his voice and steadily said,

‘I never asked you to marry me.'

CCRRRRRACK!!

Will felt his left side of his face almost cave in. He put his hand up to his face but didn't move. Only felt his eyes widen with the pain shoot all over.

‘Damn you William Darcy.' She said in a hushed, seething voice, ‘If I ever did get a proposal from you, I would deny you if you believed that rubbish you just told me. You would be the last man in the world I would ever marry. And even then...maybe you wouldn't be the most natural choice for me. I'd just as well marry an ape.'

She turned around, tears threatening to fall but her pride refusing them and determinedly paced up to her apartment.

Will shook his head and finally realized what had happened.

BLOODY IDIOT!! He thought about himself.

Quickly he ran up the stairs taking them two at a time if not three and caught the door before she closed it on him, probably forever.

‘Lizzy hold on. Hold on!'

She didn't stop for him. She kept walking all the way to her bedroom where she could let it go.

‘I'm not listening to you William Darcy. Go away.' She said tightly and shut the door in his face.

Jack barked at Will but was quickly and calmly told to quiet down.

‘Lizzy listen to me. Please! I'm sorry for what I had said. It wasn't meant at all how you took it. I was trying to state that I hadn't proposed to you yet. What I said about Caroline being a natural choice, (sigh) that was a long time ago. I was able to control her and that was something easy for me.'

Lizzy opened the door and could have killed him with the look she threw at him.

‘Control? Is that what you're looking for? Are you wanting to control me now Darcy?'

‘No Lizzy.' He said desperately running his hands through his hair, realizing his feet were sinking the further he dug to save himself.

‘You can't control me! You might have been able to do it to her, but you will never do it to me.' Lizzy said fiercely. ‘She would do anything to get your attention and money! I refuse to lower myself for you. I shouldn't have to! I love you with my heart, not my pocketbook. My G-d Will! I don't have enough in my pocketbook like you do to pay you to love me like you did with her. What's wrong with you?!'

‘I never paid her to love me and she doesn't. Crikey I don't love her!!' He raised his voice, exasperated, ‘Can I please explain things to you? I see what I said wrong, but let me tell you what was going on when I made that decision.'

Lizzy crossed her arms and walked out into the living room and sat down with Jack asking her for attention.

Will followed her and didn't sit down. Instead he stood in front of her. Waiting to continue.

‘I don't want to hear you. Leave Will.' Her resolve slowly broke but she was saying the same plea.

‘Will...please. Leave. I don't want you around right now. In fact...I'm not sure when I want to see you just yet. K?'

‘Lizzy...' he searched her face for something...anything to give him hope.

‘Go.' She barely whispered.

Reluctantly he took the few steps it took him to reach the front door and left.

Lizzy finally let the tears held at bay, go.

‘Uh Charles, Lizzy just called me, told me she can't come by. Something happened I think with Will. Did you---‘

‘Yeah...Will just called and told me he's on his way. Needs to talk to me about something. I'm thinking it's related.'

Jane stood at the kitchen counter flipping her phone around in circles. Should I go to her? Should I stay?

‘Jane? Jane honey?"

She shook her head.

‘I'm going to her. Think you can handle Will until I get back?'

Charles nodded and Jane moved to the door. Unfortunately, Will was at the door holding his hand to his face where Lizzy slapped him, just now feeling the pain for good, and tried to smile at Jane.

‘Will! What happened to you?' Jane asked while she put her keys and purse down.

‘Uh...could I have some ice and come in?' He asked pathetically.

Jane nodded and went for some ice while Charles led him into his study.

‘Sit down Will. Tell me what happened?'

Will cringed as he leaned back into the sofa and tried to find out where it all started.

‘We were talking about engagements. About how typical they can be or not. (Thank you Jane)' he placed the ice gingerly on his face and closed his eyes.

‘Engagments? Why?' Jane asked.

Will composed himself and went on.

‘I had asked what she meant by asking you if Charles did what you two thought he did and she wasn't sure. She got out of me indirectly that Charles had planned...' Will looked at Charles for confirmation to continue.

‘She said yes Will.'

‘Oh Jane I'm so happy for you both!' Will moved to get up but the pain stopped him and Jane soothed him with a ‘Relax...shh...thank you. Now go on.'

‘Anyways, about Charles's plans to propose and from there it went to Caroline and me.'

‘Caroline?' Charles asked oddly.

Will didn't say anything. It was a while before he did since Charles was trying to find out why she would have been brought into this and Jane tried to calm him down. Seemed that Caroline was the start of many things nowadays.

‘Will, tell us please what happened.' Jane inquired and Will related the whole story to her.

Lizzy cried herself to exhaustion. Now she was starting to feel bad. But for what? For who? She hated fighting with Will and this was their first huge fight. Bickering was one thing, fighting was another. And she slapped him! Served him right though. He didn't think before he said anything. Did he mean those things? Only he knew. She didn't know and right now she didn't care. Well...yeah she did. She really did but crying wasn't going to solve anything.

Instead she got up from her bed and grabbed her sweats and a towel and took a shower.

‘I'm sorry Jane. I didn't mean to hurt her at all.' Will said when he finished. Jane sat next to him and gave him a hug.

‘I know you didn't. Lizzy is sensitive though and she can be explosive about her feelings when rubbed the wrong way. I'm going to go talk to her. You two hang tight and I'll be back in a bit.'

Charles nodded and paced about the study when Jane left.

‘Will...I don't know why you felt the need to say those things, but (sigh) I'm sorry this is happening.'

Will just shook his head.

‘Not your fault. Mine all the way. I wasn't thinking and it's got me this far. I have to apologize to her.'

‘You do, but not right now. Let her calm down. Want a drink?'

‘No no thank you. I just want to get through this. G-d I feel awful!!' He said getting up and taking his turn to pace. Charles took his chair at his desk and nodded.

‘You both love each other very much. I think the stress of being away from each other so long hasn't helped.'

‘Hmm...right but I think it's more. You know, Charlotte got married yesterday to Lizzy's mom's boss. And with Jane and you engaged, maybe she's feeling left out.'

‘How do you feel about that?"

Will paused.

‘Well I won't ask her to marry me out of pity for others doing the same. That would make her more upset.'

Charles took his turn to pause and then looked up at his best friend.

‘Do you want to marry her?'

Without hesitation Will stated,

‘Yes.'

‘Then ask her. When the time is right of course.'

‘If she won't be mad at me forever.'

‘Hardly Will. She needs to cool off right now.'

Jane made it to the apartment right as Lizzy was blow drying her hair. She quickly took off her engagement ring and put it in her pocket. Jack pounced on Jane in greeting and once given a few pats and warm hello, Jane went to find Lizzy.

‘Lizzy...'

Without a word, Lizzy dropped the blow dryer and her brush and embraced her sister.

‘What are you doing here?'

Jane almost laughed as they moved into the living room.

‘Well I had dinner all ready to go and then you call to say you're not coming and then Will shows up and tells me the reason why you didn't come.'

‘Oh...him.'

‘Oh yes him. Come on Lizzy you know that he didn't mean it the way you think he did. He may have said it in haste, but not in spite.'

‘Whatever. People who love each other don't say things like that. He meant it.'

‘Lizzy! Stop thinking that, G-d. You always think people say exactly what they mean without thinking that they may say something too quick before thinking or without meaning it.'

‘Jane,' Lizzy said eyeing her carefully, ‘ did he tell you what he told me about marrying me? Did he tell you that he never asked me to marry him?!'

‘Lizzy...' Jane hissed. ‘ He hasn't yet has he? Good gracious...come off it.'

‘Right...did he also tell you that Caroline was the natural choice?'

Jane laughed bitterly as Lizzy sat down on the couch.

‘Okay so throw him away right? Give him up because of CAROLINE? Do you hear yourself? Do you see what you're doing?'

Lizzy huffed.

‘I'm not giving him up, but I'm not going to forget what he said. It was rude and harsh. It hurt!'

‘Yes yes...it hurts, but what's worth more? His love for you or his past with Caroline?'

Lizzy bit her lip. Jane had a point. Not like she never did, but this was impressive to what she brought to light.

Jane went on.

‘He loves you Lizzy. Very very much. He right now is holding an ice pack to his face and worried that he has lost you forever! Now does that sound like a man who thinks Caroline Bingley of all women is a natural choice?'

‘He said it Jane.' Lizzy quietly stated.

‘Yes, he did. But then he met you. You fool! HE MET YOU!' Jane's arms flapped to her side, She calmed down and let out a small breath. ‘Things change. You of all people should know that. You of all people should understand what he meant. You never thought Eliot was a bad man, but then you found out, things changed and you left. You met Will. You liked him, then didn't, then did, and are now in love with him. Come on Lizzy. You have more sense than this.' Jane finished more calmly.

Lizzy didn't say a word. She let a couple tears fall and then swiped them away.

‘Jane...'

‘No Lizzy. You have nothing else to say except to hear Will out. You were unfair and understandably so regarding the things he said to you, but you know the underlining feelings he has for you. You know the truth.'

‘Why do I feel like the bad guy now? How is that possible when I didn't say those things! I feel awful from what he said.'

Jane shook her head.

‘Don't you say things you don't mean when you argue with people? The things he said, yes they weren't right. By far I think he was stupid for saying them, but he's a good man. A very good man and you Lizzy are a wonderful person. You're not the bad guy here. No one is...well except Caroline, she's just awful, but for pete's sake, you two didn't even fight with her there! So no Lizzy. You both were wrong. Him for the words he said without thinking and you for not hearing him out. Now I love you and look out for you but I won't always agree with you. On this I refuse to agree with you both. I'm just stating the facts.'

Lizzy nodded and a few more tears fell into her lap. She was too proud at that moment to admit Jane was right except acknowledging to Jane with a nod that she was.

Jane knelt down and pushed the hair in Lizzy's face behind her ear. Calmly Jane said,

‘He is madly in love with you, violently so. Allow him the chance to love you and settle in your heart. He's not looking for another Caroline. He can't stand her. He wants you Lizzy. You. Please?'

She only nodded and Jane smiled rising up and looking down at a worn out Lizzy.

‘Good. Now. Let's get you dressed for dinner. I'm hungry.'

Jane drove Lizzy to Charles's and went inside to find no one directly around.

‘Go ahead and take a seat in the living room. I'll bring you something to drink.'

‘Thanks Jane.'

Jane nodded and left to find the guys along with getting a drink for her sister.

Lizzy flopped onto the sofa and let out a deep sigh. She wasn't alone long. Nearly two minutes until she heard a voice.

‘William?? William dear is that you?? Oh! oh...it's just you. Have you seen William?'

Lizzy wanted her looks to kill the lanky woman in front of her.

‘Caroline I have no idea where he is and I advise you not to go looking for him.'

Caroline puffed up and spouted at her.

‘Why?! He's not yours completely. I can talk to him.'

Lizzy closed her eyes and put her hands to her head to remain calm.

‘Caroline. Listen. I don't have the energy right now to fight with you verbally, but if I have to physically kick you're a** then trust me. I will find the energy to do it.'

Caroline looked disgusted and was about to speak when Jane came through with Lizzy's drink.

‘Caroline? When did you get home?'

‘Oh Jane...I just did. I saw William's car and thought he came back to me. I was just looking for him. Have you seen him?'

Lizzy could feel her blood boil.

‘Caroline, ‘ she started calmly, ‘ He is NOT YOURS!'

‘Lizzy calm down...' Jane started.

‘Who do you think you are? You're nothing. You're just some little twit until he's man enough to come back to me.' she began with a flip of her hand.

Lizzy felt a burning sensation in her eyes and her shoulders started to shake.

Before Caroline could say anything else, Jane's own hand made contact with her caked on face.

'Why you little--!' Caroline's arm raised to met Jane's face, but Jane moved back from the pathetic swat Caroline attempted.

‘Caroline Bingley!! I cannot believe what you just said to my sister? How dare you!' Jane spat at her and left the room to find Charles and Will.

‘Good riddens to both you Bennets!' Caroline cried and turned to Lizzy, 'You know Lizzy, I may work under you, but not for long! I'm going to have Charles fire you for being incompetent and just because I can have him do so. You will no longer be wanted here in my house and no longer wanted by William. He's mine!!'

Lizzy looked up and stopped from opening her mouth.

‘I don't think so.' A deep voice came from behind Caroline.

She turned and met Will's eyes.

‘Don't fight my battles for me Will. I can handle her. I'm not afraid of Caroline.' Lizzy let out. Will ignored her.

‘Leave.' Will said calmly.

‘Oh William...I knew you'd come back to me---‘ She moved towards him to take his hand. Will stood still but didn't allow her to touch him.

‘No Caroline. Leave. You need to leave.' Will said calmly. When Caroline didn't move, Will let his rage out.

‘LEAVE NOW CAROLINE! I don't want to see you ever again near Elizabeth or me. And if I find that you try one more thing in attempt to ruin my relationship with her, I will-by G-d-I will have you removed for good.' He seethed and his eyes were dark and blazing with anger and frustration.

Lizzy was in shock. She didn't know what to feel. Upset at him standing up for her or saved from having to say the words herself in a home not her own.

Caroline weakly smiled at both of them and tried again to get Will to reason with her. He would have none of it.

He only pointed to the door and waited for her to follow. Charles came from the hallway and didn't say a word.

‘Charles! Tell him to stop acting this way right now!'

Charles shook his head.

‘Caroline...you aren't being respectful. You don't yell at Jane and you don't yell at Lizzy. Will is not yours and never will be. I'm sorry Caroline, but until you can act your age, I don't want you around. You can go upstairs or leave, either way, you're not welcome here with this attitude ever again.'

Caroline stood stunned. Her brother was turning her out too??

‘You're my brother.' She hissed.

‘You're my sister, but I don't have to agree with everything you do. It's time you're on your own. Now go.'

‘You two will regret this. You two may think you love these girls now, but mark my words, they will disappoint you and hurt you. Leave you both. They don't love you like I have always loved you two! Since birth for you Charles and since I was a child to you Will. I love you!' With that weak statement, she left.

Will looked at the door and then shook his head before looking longingly at Lizzy. She wasn't looking at either of them. Instead she was letting everything out. Choking out sobs of embarrassment and hurt, she was feeling too much.

‘Lizzy...' Jane tried but Charles stopped her.

‘Will listen. I'm sorry about my sister. I'll have a talk with her when she gets back. I'm sorry to all of you. That was very rude and she should of known better.'

Lizzy shook her head.

‘It's not your fault Charles. It's her own.' She stated calmly.

‘Still the same. I'm sorry.' He turned and left the room leaving Will and Lizzy to themselves.

No one spoke a word. Lizzy's anger still breathed fire and although she was calmer, she wasn't pleased.

‘Elizabeth...' Will sought out and Lizzy's hand went up.

‘I guess I really need to tell you the history of Caroline and me before we go any further huh?'

Lizzy took a moment before she spoke cross.

‘I really didn't want to hear about her but since you choose those words to explain your engagement with her, I'd really like to know how I fit into your life like that. So if that means that I have to hear about her and you, together, then please...continue.' She said sarcastically.

Will sighed and continued on.

‘When we were in high school, most of the girls wanted to date me, but I didn't want to date them because I was too shy. I was always wrapped up in my schoolwork that I didn't have time for girls. Charles and I were best friends for so long ever since we were 8 and Caroline was always around us when we played together and all through our growing up, that I felt I could try dating her and see what it was like. She wasn't like she is now. At least, I didn't see it I felt that love would come in time and I wanted to date a girl that knew me before my money. Besides being Charles's annoying little sister, I was willing to put that aside and try it. Anyways, we tried dating in high school but it didn't work out and then again in college, but it didn't work there either. She was living with Charles and we saw each other all the time. She seemed to like the same things as I and she was just someone who would do what I wanted to do. I like activities that I have control in and I'm not one for surprises. So things that I did were things that were manageable and Caroline didn't seem to mind. She didn't try to control me. She did whatever I wanted. Since I knew her family so well and knew her pretty well, so I thought, I felt that may have she been the one. So we started dating again, sometimes she came over to my apartment, but mostly we spent time at her brother's place or out to dinner and just---‘

‘Wait? Apartment? You mean your love nest?!' she disputed angrily.

‘No no!! I never wanted Caroline at my home. My house. So I leased an apartment closer to his place. She doesn't know about the house. She was never close to me like that. I don't even have that apartment anymore. Got rid of it...the day after I met you.' He let out a huge sigh and looked closely at Lizzy to see any sign of understanding. When he got nothing, he went on.

‘When I met you I realized that I wasn't with Caroline for the right reasons. She wasn't the natural choice as I said before. She was very much the artificial choice in my life. She didn't care about me or my family, or most importantly my heart---who I really am. She only cared about my money and my status. She didn't even want to give me children. I spent more time at Charles's house just to see him! To have him help me get away from her, from being with her. I know the tricks she was playing on me, when I thought I had control on our situation. But why should she play tricks? Always flirting with other men to have me help her and show me off to her girlfriends as though I was a prize to be won. That night at the engagement party for Robert and Marianne, I looked around me and saw happy couples who had love in their life. I knew then that I didn't have that. That I always wanted that, but I thought it came in time. But so much time had passed between her and me that it never happened. I was more annoyed by her than respectful and in love.' He seemed to collapse in one breath at trying hard to save himself.

‘If I wanted her I'd be with her I would be still. You know this. But I'm not. I'm with you Lizzy. I'm not with her and I never will be again. I was foolish to be with her before, trying to make something work and find love in all the wrong places. I meant what I said last weekend about you being a life partner. I'm not afraid of commitment with you. I enjoy it. I've never felt the way I feel with you with anyone. I don't recommend myself to women just for the fancy of it. I give myself to you. Now I'm sorry about how things came out and I can't change the past. I never knew love until I met you. I love you from the moment I started and I will never stop.'

He felt himself slowly feel beat down but better in letting it all out. He watched Lizzy's lips go from a tight line to biting her lower lip. He wasn't going to let her go so easily. In fact, this made him feel that he would never let her go.

‘Can you tell me anything Elizabeth?'

She wasn't looking at him but opened her mouth to reply.

‘Will,' She said letting a sigh escape, ‘ I felt like you compared me to Caroline and I know very well I'm nothing to be compared to her. I have nothing in common with her except for Charles and Jane. I'm not afraid to stand up to you, I'm not going to back down when you raise your voice or just leave when it gets tough. I was really hurt though by what you said. I'm not asking you to ask me to marry you. Marriage is a very special and important thing to me. I don't take it lightly, but I don't want to---‘

Will moved forward and knelt to lightly touch her face, which he was accepted gingerly.

‘Lizzy I love you and marriage with you will be an incredible union. I look forward to that day.'

She put her hand up and looked at him. He slowly stood up as she spoke.

‘I don't want to marry you because you're lonely and want what everyone else has. I want to marry you because you love me and I love you. Because we know that we are soul mates and belong together no matter what or who comes along. No money, no status, nothing materialistic. I like certain things yes, everyone does. But not enough to marry for it, that's what I'm saying. I'm not like those girls who chase after you. And! I know you never implied that. But I want it understood that I never want to be compared to her again or any other woman who is after you and I want to know that should you do ask me to marry you, that I'm not the natural choice because of your security problems. But the natural choice because your heart feels it that way. See what I mean? Where I'm coming from? You really hurt me and I understand now why you thought she was the right one. I thought the same in a way with Eliot. I'm sorry for blowing up, but please, next time, think before you speak like that. At least in regards to our relationship.'

Will nodded. The miscommunication between them read volumes to his heart and mind. He knew that she was nothing to compare Caroline to that she was far beyond and much better than any woman of his knowing.

‘I am truly sorry Elizabeth. I will never speak so foolishly again to you. You are my heart and soul, I never meant to hurt you. I thought I was just telling the truth.'

‘Yeah well, through your nobility, I find that you were a bit unfeeling regarding the subject and your choice of words.'

Lizzy on the other hand, felt a weight lifted from her shoulders. She knew that he cared about her, loved her. But she understood how he had felt regarding Caroline. She wasn't scared of her and they both knew that. But in regards to marriage, she didn't want to be proposed to if it was for convenience, regardless how much they loved each other.

Will moved to her and with his eyes looked for permission to embrace her. Lizzy nodding and standing up allowed his arms to take her into him.

‘I love you no matter how much money I have in my pocket, no matter who supports me or doesn't, I love you regardless of where you come from or who your family is. I love you entirely for who you are and how you make me feel. I learned that a long time ago that you have always been a remarkable woman who would teach me so much regarding my heart. As I've said before, my heart starting beating when I met you. It hasn't stopped since then Elizabeth.'

Lizzy allowed a few tears to fall from being tired of fighting and from his touching words.

She didn't know what to say or where they were regarding marriage, but she was in no hurry. Right now, she wasn't ready to think about it. Only recover from the past recent argument. She knew she loved him and if he did ask, there was no doubt in accepting him, but right now, they just had to be together.

‘I will only give into your love Will. I won't give up loving you.' She said softly.

Will let go of her to look at her with warm regard.

‘I'm sorry we fought about this, especially over Caroline. I didn't mean to make it sound so rude. I was just trying to say the facts and of how I felt at the time I had proposed to her.'

Lizzy nodded.

‘I was wrong too. I know you have a past. I know I'm not the first girl, but I know that no matter what number I'm coming in at, that I want to always be the number one girl in your heart.'

Will smiled.

‘You are my love, you always will be.'

Jane hurried to put the carrots on the stove to boil and checked the chicken. A simple meal, but good nonetheless. She was shutting the oven door when Charles found her.

‘You know, this is your kitchen now.'

‘Hasn't it always been since I started cooking? You don't cook sweetie. Neither does your sister.' Jane said as she put her ring back on her finger.

Charles wrapped his hand around Jane's left hand and lightly touched the ring and smiled.

‘Good! I'm going to set the table.'

Will looked at her again.

‘Again I'm sorry.'

She shook her head.

‘Let's say our apologies and move on. I'm not going to remember this fight thinking ill of you. We both learned something and I think it's made us firmer in where we stand in our relationship.'

‘Lizzy I know you're a strong person and that you aren't afraid of me. I wouldn't have you so. I want to take care of you, protect you and be with you. I want to stand next to you always.'

‘I know you do. And you are Will. No one takes your place or ever will. Now let's enjoy ourselves tonight and forget about this. I want to be happy for Jane if I was right in the first place and I know I am.'

Will moved to kiss her forehead and then smiled.

‘Yes my love.'

Lizzy went into the kitchen and asked about Jane's weekend, trying to change the subject into a happy one.

‘How about I show you instead.' She said and lifted her hand. Lizzy squealed with delight and hugged her sister so tight.

Will and Charles saw them after giving them a few moments and smiled with Charles giving Will a nudge.

‘Oh I'm so happy for you two!! Oh Charles you are the luckiest man in the world to have my sister!'

‘I am but I'm lucky to have a sister like you Lizzy. Thank you for being so happy.'

‘There was never a doubt.' She smiled and hugged him.

‘Well I hope you're hungry. I baked us a chicken with carrots, potatoes, and some salad. Nothing much but it was pretty much all I could muster up here.'

Before moving into the dining room where the men took their spots, Lizzy stopped Jane to apologize.

'I'm sorry for taking your limelight espcially for such a wonderful occasion. I feel so foolish.'

Jane grinned and hugged Lizzy.

'I'm not at all upset or rubbed the wrong way. I wanted to help you two out and so did Charles. We both love you very much. Seeing you two hurt, hurts us just as much. No apology needed sweetie. I'm just glad you two are okay now.'

Lizzy nodded and followed her into the dining room with a weak smile on her face.

They all sat down for dinner, talked about how Charles proposed and all Lizzy and Jane could do was melt when they heard it , again for Jane.

Will grinned when he heard what Charles had done. He wasn't sure how he was doing it, but was pleased it worked out so well. He knew then that when he was going to propose to Lizzy it had to be something like that, only better. She was quick to catch on. Observant enough to sneak out the plot. No he would have to do something very very special.

‘Will? Would you like some more chicken?' Jane asked.

Will dished himself some more while listening to Lizzy ask more about their plans.

‘Well we're thinking end of the year, after Marianne's wedding and all.'

‘Are you guys going to live here then?'

Charles piped up.

‘I was hoping to, but Jane won't if Caroline is here.'

Jane groaned.

‘She's not my favorite person. But I would love to live here. Maybe we could set her up in an apartment somewhere?' Jane asked.

Charles shook his head.

‘She has a job she can get her own place. It' s about time too. She's been living with me for years. I want my own space with you.'

‘When would you move in?' Lizzy asked shyly.

Jane sighed thinking of a timeframe.

‘Ohh...I was thinking this summer. When's school's out. My lease is up on the place in July. You could take it over if you wanted to.'

Lizzy shrugged.

‘Maybe. But I'd want a roommate. I can't make the total rent by myself.'

‘We'll work it out.' Jane said.

‘I think that's perfect though. You move in after you're done with school and then you could plan the wedding. Oh wait, when are you telling mom and dad?'

Charles's smile wavered a bit and Jane rolled her eyes.

‘We've talked about it and we're going to wait. ‘ Charles spoke up.

‘How are you going to wait with Jane's finger blinding everyone?'

Charles laughed.

‘Very funny silly Lizzy. It's up to Jane. I won't be hurt if she doesn't wear the ring around certain people. Although I don't care what they think, it's the planning and fussing we want to avoid.'

‘Oh yes! Please don't remind me.' Jane said as she started to clear the plates. Charles stood up to help and continued.

‘Sorry sweetie, Lizzy wants to know.' His eyes beamed.

‘Yeah sorry Jane I want to know.'

‘Your mom is always hinting at us getting engaged whenever we go see them. It upsets Jane and gets to me a little bit too. It's understandable but annoying at times too you know?'

‘Oh do I ever Charles, do I ever. Well I'm sorry you have to deal with her as a mother-in-law. She means well, but can't help it fi she butts in all the time.'

‘Oh I know that Lizzy. I'm not running away from your mother. She's a good person. I'm just glad your father keeps her at bay when he can.'

‘Hmm...' Lizzy managed.

Will finally spoke up after watching and hearing what had to be said.

‘I don't think I've seen your mother since I helped you move.'

Lizzy turned to look at him and smiled gently.

‘Let's keep it as minimal as possible. I don't get along with her very well.'

‘Which reminds me Will,' Charles interjected, ‘ When is Georgie coming to visit us here? I haven't seen her for a long time.'

Will looked thoughtful.

‘Well I don't think she's coming back here until school's out. She usually goes home for the summer. Maybe I can get her out here after the wedding. Maybe.'

‘She can visit for a little while, wouldn't hurt her. We don't bite.' Charles stated with a grin.

‘I know but I want her to work on school. I'll talk to her.'

After dinner, Will and Lizzy were asked to be maid of honor and best man. Jane and Charles were happily accepted of course and soon after, Will and Lizzy left.

It was when they got to the apartment, that Will talked to Lizzy seriously regarding the trip to England.

‘I want to leave late May early June. So I'm going to talk to Robert tomorrow and see what works for them. Okay?'

‘Sure. I'm okay with anything. I haven't talked to Marianne for a bit but I'm sure she's excited.'

So it was settled the next day after talking with Robert and coming up with dates that Will, Lizzy, Robert and Marianne would be going to England in three weeks.

Will, ever excited to show Lizzy his home, called Mrs. Reynolds with the plans and details making sure it was perfect for them to see the ever lasting beauty of Pemberley.

Jane called Lizzy at work asking her to save tonight for themselves and let the men deal on their own without them. They needed to catch up and have a Tuesday night bash. Lizzy agreed and decided she would pick up some necessities on her way home.

It was rather a bit late than usual when Lizzy walked through the door, bags in hand, and Jack barking at her. Jane quickly relieved her sister of her bags and handed Lizzy Jack's leash to let him out.

Once back again, Lizzy flopped onto the couch and slipped off her shoes.

‘I'm beat! Our systems were down for a bit today and Caroline was complaining non-stop, which is never a surprise. Michelle told me today that she's quitting though. She got a new job with her sister over in Arlington. I can't say I blame her, better pay and no Caroline. What a relief for her.'

Jane padded into the living room with a can of diet coke for both her and Lizzy and giggled.

‘Well maybe you could move up in the company to get away from her? I can't believe she actually stayed so long.'

‘Hmm...this coming from her future sister-in-law? Never!' she beamed.

‘She tries the nerves on me too Lizzy.I'm still not talking to her after what she said to you and about me. I hardly see her anyways now.'

‘How was Charles when you told him about tonight?'

Jane shrugged.

‘He's fine with it. He understands that time away makes us grow closer. He loves you too Lizzy as a brother and thinks the world of you as a sister. So he doesn't mind. In fact he encourages it. What? Was Will not happy about you staying home, away from him tonight?'

Lizzy smiled.

‘I love the man Jane, very very much, but he was starting to whine a bit on the phone. Although, I'm sure he likes his time too. He said he would see what Charles was doing since they haven't spent much bonding time together. I think they were planning on playing video games all night.'

‘Yeah that's always the way huh?'

Lizzy nodded.

‘I didn't tell you about Nick coming over last weekend did I?'

Jane shook her head.

‘What did he do that for? He never comes over. How did he know where we even lived?' She said playfully.

‘Well according to him, everything with Eliot is finished. I get $400,000.00 from his life insurance policy but of course, the debt I was joint on with him comes out of that, but I guess it's only $4400.'

‘Lizzy!! That's wonderful! What are you going to do with the money?'

‘Well I was thinking I would first pay Will back for fixing my truck. It's not finished yet. Another week or two, but once it's done, I plan on paying him back once I get the funds and pay my college with the rest.'

‘But there's so much left after that.' Jane noted.

Lizzy sighed.

‘I know. I'll probably save it. Maybe I'll treat myself to something I don't know.'

‘You know...' Jane started slyly, ‘ that Range Rover of Will's is pretty damn nice. You sure you want your truck fixed still?'

‘Jane I'm not taking his truck. Besides, it's his truck not mine.' She stopped for a minute thinking about how nice it really was. Nice wasn't even the word to describe it.

‘It is pretty sweet isn't it?' She asked curling up at the thought of it's smooth ride and luxurious interior.

Jane nodded.

‘So what else did Nick have to say? I haven't talked to him since hmm well in a long while. I should call him.'

‘Not much, kids are great. Megan loves first grade and Brian is talking a lot. He didn't say anything about Rachel though. I'm sure she's fine though. Work's been busy for him I guess.'

‘Hmm...we should visit them. Make a weekend of it or something. You know?'

‘Maybe. We'll see. So are we watching a movie or just relaxing?'

Jane smiled.

‘Were not doing any of those.' She smirked.

It dawned on Lizzy.

‘Oh do we have to? I just got in from work.'

‘Lizzy please! I don't trust anyone else to help me out with this and I know you want to do it. Please?' Jane begged.

Lizzy tried to keep her resolve but failed.

‘Fine. You know I can't deny you anything anyways.'

Jane clapped her hands together and went into her room to grab her things.

Lizzy rolled her eyes in amusement and looked down at Jack who was silently playing with his rope toy.

‘Lucky you dork.'

Jane soon returned, giddy with glee, hands full of bridal magazines for dresses.

‘All I have to say is no bright colors on me and no pastels!'

Jane smiled.

‘Deal!'

Wedding preparations were easy with Lizzy. Her opinions and insights to Jane's wishes and observations of her wedding desired were much appreciated.

Jane was able to make reservations and drafts of the invitations were made as far ahead as possible. Samples were obtained, and brochures were copied and highlighted to show rates, etc. Everything was done so quickly, that the past three weeks practically flew by.

Jane and Charles still kept their engagement secret from the family and their friends. Although they wanted to tell their friends soon, they still wanted everything they could get before announcing prepared.

Jane showed Charles everything Lizzy and she had done throughout the weeks and some parts of the weekends. He was most impressed with so much completed in such a time, and happy that Jane was at ease and having fun with the planning.

While Lizzy and Will were to be gone to England for the coming week, Jane made a list of things she needed to go over with Charles for their wedding. One of those things was a party to plan for the announcement of their engagement.

'When you get back I want to go looking for dresses. I have a few ideas from the magazines we went through but I'd like to see what some of the stores have.' Jane said as she flipped through her planner.

Lizzy shrugged.

'That's fine. We've done so much so far that it'll be a good break for me. Although, I'm helping with Marianne and Robert's wedding too.'

Jane chuckled.

'Yeah and then after we get married, you'll be the one to get ready for all the fun.'

Lizzy rolled her eyes.

'I think I can wait Jane. I'm in no hurry after seeing what you two brides can be like, to be one myself.'

Jane started to frown before saying anything.

'You want to get married don't you?'

'Of course I do and I'm not saying I don't ever want to. It's just that when I get married, I want it to be a while after everyone else. Besides, Will and I have talked about it and waiting is just what we need.'

'Hmm...'

Lizzy stopped and looked at Jane to try and read her thoughts.

'What?'

'Hmm? Oh nothing... nothing. I just think that you and Will have nothing to really wait for. You two are in love and happy. You have settled many differences and made it so far...why not get married to him?'

'Uh...well first he hasn't asked me, second we've only been dating for four months or so and third I'd like to get married after a year or two of being with him. We are in love and we do get along and we both want to be with each other forever, but why does marriage have to legitimize that? Why not just wait for a bit?'

Jane shrugged.

Lizzy huffed and before she could say anything else, Charles and Will came through their apartment door.

'Hello ladies! Will and I brought by some bagels this morning for breakfast. How are we today?'

Jane lit up and pecked him on the cheek.

'Thank you, Sweetie. We're fine. We were just going over what Lizzy and I are doing after next week.'

'Hmm....wedding dresses.' Will read from her open planner. The words were circled, highlighted and written boldly on the date of the weekend after Lizzy came back.

'Yeah. I need her honest opinions.' Jane winked and took the bagels into the kitchen along with Charles.

'Hello love.' Will said and kissed Lizzy's forehead.

'Hi.'

'You don't sound so happy to see me.' Will acted hurt.

'Oh I am. I just...anyways what are we doing today?' Lizzy looked up from the table and into Will's eyes that weren't fooled by her nonchalant behavior.

'What's wrong?'

'Nothing Will. I just-I don't want to talk about it.'

'Lizzy...'

'Will please... please can we just have a good day today? Jane and I were talking about us getting married and with everyone getting married I don't want to jinx us or think about it right now.'

Will bit his tongue, knowing that Lizzy was a bit stressed from helping Jane out and seeing it all from a perspective other than the bride. They had talked before about getting married and it was decided on both sides that it was good to take their time and not rush into anything. They both wanted to marry each other, but right now was not the time.

'I understand. We won't talk about it. Instead, let's get you fed and ready to go out to a movie. It's a rainy day out and I thought that you would like to do something relaxing and comforting. Charles is taking Jane out to someplace or other so it's just us today.'

Lizzy almost let out a sigh of relief. As much as she loved her sister and soon to be brother-in-law, she also felt acutely the time needed for herself and Will.

She only nodded and went to get herself some breakfast.

'Lizzy, you know that church that we looked at on Thursday night? Did Mrs. Mitchell there say that it could hold 350 people or just 275?'

Lizzy padded to the refrigerator and took out the milk before rolling her eyes and then shutting the door, so not to show Jane and Charles.

'Uh...I think it was 350.'

Jane squealed and turned to Charles to continue on about the church. Lizzy slipped past them and into the dining room where Will sat down waiting for Lizzy.

'Don't be too hard Lizzy. Jane is excited.' He nearly whispered.

'I know she is. I hear it everyday.' she deadpanned and then sighed.

'I know, I know. I'm not jealous, I'm just tired. I'm very happy for her. I wish her all the happiness in the world, I truly do. I'm just exhausted of going over wedding plans. I'm not like that usually. Marianne and I went through some things, but nothing as planned as Jane has going. She's been planning non-stop the past three weeks. She's a planner, I'm not.'

Will's hand engulfed her own when he went to comfort her.

'I know it's difficult. Charles is excited too and won't stop talking about it. I can't imagine the planning you've gone through, but I can imagine how I can relieve your stress. For instance today...'

He adjusted himself to look at her more directly.

'My love, don't be too hard on her either. She's chosen you to help her and you know you love doing it. Just think, when we get married, you'll already know what to do.' He grinned and winked at her winning a smile in return.

'You're right. I'm being completely silly and rude. I'll do better, I promise. I think I need this vacation though. I really do.'

'Even if we are planning another wedding?'

'Even if that's the case, it will be somewhere else and not all the time. The minute I get home and get back from taking Jack out, Jane has something planned for us to do. She means well I know, but it's tedious and time consuming. I haven't had a night to myself yet.'

'Well I'll let you have your night in England. Just you. I promise.'

Will kissed her cheek and lit up as Charles and Jane entered the room.

'It's too bad you can't come with us to taste the cakes today, Lizzy. I know how much you loved the chocolate cake with buttercream.'

'I know Jane, but Will has this day planned for us and besides, Charles has yet to try it. It's absolutely wonderful Charles.'

Charles laughed at the thought and took a bite of his bagel.

'Aren't you going to eat Will?' Jane asked perkily.

'No thank you. I already ate before joining Charles.'

Jane nodded and went into the kitchen to grab some orange juice and join Lizzy and Charles to eat.

When they were nearly finished, Jane started again about the cake they were going to taste later that day.

'I want it to have roses. Red ones and an off white cream tint to it. Think they could do that?' She asked excitedly.

Charles rubbed her shoulders and nodded.

'I'm sure they can my love.'

Will noticed Lizzy slip past everyone into her room and he followed her.

'Everything okay?'

'Hmm?' Lizzy started while she was in her closet trying to figure out what to wear.

'Yeah everything is fine. I'm just trying to find out what to wear. I don't feel very well for some reason.'

Will inched his way into the doorway and grinned.

'Could it be Jane that has you feeling off course?'

Lizzy only shrugged.

'I don't think so. I just think it's being tired from this week.'

Will nodded understandingly and went to squeeze her shoulders.

'Well wear whatever you want. You can tell I'm not dressed up in anything fancy.'

Lizzy turned to see him in only jeans and a henley shirt. Noting his casual appearance, she turned to grab her sweats and shoes.

'I'll be ready in a minute.' She said.

Will left her room closing the door behind him and found Jane animatedly talking to Charles regarding more wedding plans.

'Is Lizzy okay?' Charles asked when he got the chance.

'Yes, she is. She's just not feeling herself today. I'm sure a nice leisurely outing to a movie will cheer her up.

'What's wrong with her? Did I do something? Did I say something wrong?' Jane asked in one breath.

Will shook his head and put his hands in his pockets.

'No, she's just exhausted from all the things she has done the past few weeks...nothing that isn't expected.'

Jane looked as though she had a dawning of understanding.

'Oh no. I must have killed her with all this planning. It's only because I want to get as much done as possible so that our mom doesn't try to overwhelm us with her plans. I never thought it would overload her. Oh I feel just awful now.'

'Don't be hard on yourself. She's just looking for some rest. That's all.'

Jane frowned and felt a wash of guilt overtake her.

'I'm going to talk to her.'

Jane left before Will or Charles could object. She barely knocked when she entered Lizzy's room.

'Lizzy I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to make you stressed about all of this.'

'Geesh Jane, could you knock? What are you talking about anyways?'

Lizzy pulled on her sweatpants and started to brush her hair back into a small ponytail.

'Well Will said you were tired and needed rest from being exhausted these past few weeks and then it occurred to me that I've been working you to the bone with all this planning. I never meant to do it, but I'm just trying to do as much as I can before we tell Mom and Caroline. I can just hear what they are going to say.'

Lizzy sighed and moved to the bed to put her shoes on.

'Jane I'm sorry I snapped at you. Will's right I am exhausted. I'm beat. But not just from planning, it's from work, and finishing school, as well as all the planning we've done. I just need a break. That's why I'm ready to leave for England in two days.'

Jane looked sorry, felt sorry for how she treated her sister.

'I am sorry Lizzy. I only wanted your help, not to take over your life.'

'Oh Jane, stop being so melodramatic. I'm fine. I just need some rest. I should have told you sooner, but I didn't want to hurt your feelings. I just wanted to help you out as much as I could.'

Jane smiled, if only briefly, at her.

'I'm sorry.'

'Please don't be. Just have a good time with Charles today. He needs to put his two cents in too. I have had fun with you Jane. I really have. I can't wait to look at the dresses and see what we can find when I return. I completely understand how you feel and we decided this was the best option anyways in regards to planning as much as you and Charles could before letting anyone know. I just want you to be happy. If you are happy then I'm happy too.'

Jane moved to give her a hug and after a few minutes she started to laugh.

'We're really silly aren't we? If we ever get this way... If you ever have anything against what I'm doing or if I'm pushing you too much let me know, okay?'

Lizzy nodded happily feeling some pressure lifted from her shoulders.

'I will. And you too, because I'm having you help me with my wedding too you know.'

'Good payback.'

Will was happy to see Lizzy more relaxed as they entered the movie theater.

She was happier after Jane talked to her unexpectedly. She didn't think it would come up. She didn't even know she had so much pressure on her until she felt it removed earlier. Now she felt better, although she still didn't feel very well.

It had been late last night as she was walking in from visiting another church with Jane. She felt icky and a bit weak, as if a fever was about to come, but she wasn't ill yet. She felt better with Will around. He wasn't pressuring her on anything lately. In fact, he hardly ever did. He was a take-charge man, but he also was willing to do anything to make her happy.

He paid for the tickets and gently pushed Lizzy to the concession stand to pick up the customary snacks.

'Do you want the usual, Love?'

Lizzy shrugged and stood by him waiting for him to order.

As he picked up the pop, he handed Lizzy the popcorn and her candy.

'Feeling better?'

Lizzy smiled.

'Yeah I am. Jane and I pretty much cleared the air. I didn't know it was so stuffy, but I feel better. We were just being silly about the whole thing.'

'Right. Well I'm happy that you feel better.'

They made their way to their seats and Will instantly grabbed her hand.

'My love, I can't wait to take you to Pemberley.'

Lizzy sighed with a sparkle in her eyes.

'I'm very excited to be going. Thank you so much for taking me.'

'Only two more days and we leave. We're having dinner with Robert and Marianne tonight, remember.'

'Hmm...yeah I know. But right now, can we just enjoy the movie? It's been the only few hours I've had with you and not dealing with a wedding.'

Will quietly chuckled and squeezed her hand.

'Okay, I promise.'

Those few hours were precious to her and she felt refreshed and relaxed.

She didn't want to leave and almost was able to persuade Will into another movie, but it would conflict with getting ready for the dinner engagement they had. If not, they would have bought two more tickets for another movie.

Dinner that evening was a very informal affair. Robert and Marianne were coming from Pennsylvania where they spent Thursday and Friday with Robert's mother. They were already tired, but happy to have dinner with good friends.

Will and Lizzy picked up preparations for dinner on their way to Will's house and when they reached his place, Will set right away to making it. Lizzy decided to finish one of her final papers due for school. She was only two weeks away and being gone for a week of it, she wanted to get ahead. Will completely understood and gave her the time she needed to prepare and complete her paper.

Lizzy sat herself down at Will's office computer with the door shut and her books spread out on his massive desk.

Before she began her studying, she looked around his office. It was definitely a man's office, dark woods, quiet sounds, and massive furniture. A painting of Pemberley was hung on the wall in the library, but also another view of it was hung in his office. He told her stories regarding the estate and the paintings many times and Lizzy found herself now daydreaming about it.

She was so excited to go, to be away from there, and to be where Will was from. To feel what he felt regarding his family's home. All the stories she heard were swimming in her head now. She wanted to be there so badly she almost smelled the green grass in the painting and feeling the sun shining instead of the cold damp rain outside.

She shook her head.

'Time to study' she thought.

She opened her books and started her paper.

Will was almost set with his roasted chicken dish. He was getting ready to glaze the carrots when he noticed the time.

'Robert and Marianne should be here in minutes.' He thought.

He washed his hands and with towel in hand went to his study.

A light knock on the door, and he heard a low mumble.

'Lizzy? Love, they're going to be here soon.'

He opened the door to find her comfortably lounging in his chair with the keyboard in lap and her fingers flying over the keys and her eyes determined to stay on the monitor.

'I'll be done in a few minutes. I just need to finish my citing.'

Never did she stop while responding to him.

Will felt a twinge of pride surge through him. Here was his girlfriend working on her final paper for her class and working so studiously and patiently. He was proud of her... very proud of her. It took hard work and skill to go back to school, to go after her dreams. He knew how it was, and seeing his intelligent Lizzy work so hard at becoming what she wanted, made him happy for her.

He walked over to the desk with a goofy smile on his face. Lizzy didn't notice. She only continued on with her schoolwork. She felt a kiss pressed onto the crown of her head and a light rub on her shoulders.

'Take your time sweetie. I'll get you when they arrive.'

Lizzy slowly nodded not missing a beat.

Will was checking dinner a half hour later that the doorbell rang. With a smile, he strode to the front door.

On his way, a thought hit him. Lizzy was in his study. Working. He was cooking dinner and they were having company over. They were. Not him. Lizzy and him. Together. He adored that and wanted that. He felt complete with her around. Just her being in his home felt right. She didn't need to be near him to feel that way. But he wanted her always with him, not to have to drive her home later, not to have her living in one place without him. He wanted her there. With him. Always.

Before he could think anymore on it, he opened the door.

'Hello Will! How are ya?' Marianne bustled in with a bright smile and handed him a bottle of wine they brought from Robert's mother's house.

'I'm fine. You? Good drive down?'

'Not too bad on traffic, and the weather was nice.' Marianne said but was interrupted by Robert who came in behind her looking exhausted.

'Not too bad because you weren't driving! I was the whole time, and yes, there was traffic. She was just asleep during that part. Hello Will. Is Lizzy here?'

Will chuckled and with the wine bottle in hand, closed the door and offered to take their jackets.

'Lizzy's in the study. She's almost done.'

'Ahh. Well I'm going to say hello. You two talk. I'll be right back.' Marianne sang and went to the study door while the men retreated to the kitchen.

Marianne didn't bother to knock and just walked in. Lizzy was now sitting with her back to the door, waiting for the printer to finish her paper.

'Getting anything done in here?' Marianne said as she perched on Will's desk.

'Just printing my paper for my files. How are you?'

Marianne was perky. From sitting in a car so long and from visiting her mother-in-law-to-be, she was ready to exert some kept in energy.

'Good! Just got in obviously. The guys are in the kitchen opening the wine I hope.'

'Thirsty?' Lizzy asked with an arched brow watching the printer.

'Hmm...for wine? Yes. This stuff is good. Marilyn outdid herself when she gave us this bottle. We have a few more in the car for home. She bought the stuff on her trip with her sister to California. I'm about ready to have it at the wedding.'

'Hmm...' Lizzy gathered her papers and stapled them together and put them into a white folder.

'Is this homework?'

'Yeah, it's my final paper.'

'What's it about?'

'It's my final for biology. I wrote on cell regeneration. It's not very fun.'

'You just like the lab stuff. You ready to go in?'

Lizzy sighed.

'Yeah I am. I'm hungry and I know Will worked really hard on this dinner tonight.'

'You excited for Monday? I know I am. Robert hasn't heard me talk about anything else the past two weeks!'

Lizzy laughed to herself.

'Yeah I'm excited too. I already have most of my suitcase packed. Just need the last minute things.' She put her books into her bag and started towards the door.

'Well let's eat and have some of this wine. You'll love it. I do.'

The two walked into the kitchen, Marianne more briskly than Lizzy and they both took a glass of wine gratefully for different reasons.

'Everything finished?' Will asked in a low voice while Robert poked around the oven and Marianne watched him.

'Yeah I am. Finally. I just need to drop it off at the office and I'm good to go.'

Will nodded and turned to the couple.

'Well I'm sure we all want to eat. Ready?'

'When are we going to get in again?' Marianne asked before biting into her chicken.

'Hmm...'Will allowed himself to finish his bite and then began, 'We should be in around 8 that night. We won't get to Pemberley until Tuesday night. We stay the night in London.'

'Right...well are we going to have a day in London to see the sights?'

Will shook his head.

'Not this trip. We are only visiting Pemberley. But trust me, it's worth the trip.' He smiled and began to eat again.

'Well, Will you did a wonderful job. Did you help him out Lizzy?' Robert asked with a grin.

'No, I had to finish my final paper. Will can handle it on his own better than I ever could in the kitchen.'

'You don't like to cook huh?'

'No I do, but I don't do it very often. Jane's the cook.'

'She's made me dinners before. I'm still alive.'

'Oh whatever. Lizzy can't cook as well as Jane, but she can make a few mean meals.' Marianne said smiling as she recalled a few instances from back then.

Lizzy laughed as she read her thoughts.

'You're thinking of when I made pancakes for everyone aren't you?' She asked through giggles.

Will and Robert exchanged amused glances and Will, after swallowing a bite of food, turned to Lizzy to continue on.

'Pray continue Lizzy. I'm sure Robert and I would love to hear this.' He said sweetly.

Lizzy and Marianne looked at each other and before answering, Lizzy rolled her eyes in accepting his invitation.

'Okay, okay. Well it was about five or six years ago and it was our senior year, actually we already graduated. Anyways it was that summer and I had slept over at Marianne's place for the weekend. Well, one day I was hungry for some cookies and since Jane and Elinor were on their summer vacations to Miami and Marianne's mom was at church, I decided that I would make us some.'

Marianne started to giggle at the memory.

'Yes, tried being the key word. She was so determined there was no stopping her. In fact, she never even read the recipe my mom has for making cookies that she supposedly found and read.'

'I did read it to a point. I basically glanced at it, saw the ingredients and threw them all in together, when you really needed to mix the dry stuff together first and then the wet things together and after all that you combine them. Marianne wasn't even around to watch me do this. She was off doing whatever. Anyways, I go to bake them and they turned out just hard as a rock and they didn't taste very good, because I guess the sugar container actually was the salt container and I didn't read the right label. It was a mess. All I wanted were some cookies.'

Marianne was now laughing.

'It was so funny! My dog wouldn't even eat them! I tried one bite, spit it out and made her eat a whole one!'

Lizzy laughed along with Marianne and the two of them weren't paying attention to the odd looks given by the men.

'Oh that was funny. Good times, good times.' Marianne ventured as she took a sip of wine.

'Well that settles it. Will, you're a great cook and Lizzy, you're a wonderful story teller.' Robert said as he pushed his empty plate forward and sighed at his content of being full.

'Anything else I can get you Robert? Marianne?' Will asked as he cleared the table.

'Have any dessert?' Marianne ventured.

Will walked back in from the kitchen with the bottle of wine to refill everyone's glasses and announced that dessert was cheesecake.

'Oooh, yummy! I'll have slice of that please.' She returned and Lizzy went with Will to cut dessert and serve.

It was then, as Will rinsed the plates and turned to see Lizzy expertly cut the cheesecake and set it on four plates, that he wanted Lizzy to live with him.

It was perfect right? Jane was moving out in a month or so and Lizzy couldn't afford the rent completely on her own. None of her friends could really move in since they were all in relationships and basically on their way to marriage. Why not live with him? Jack had room to run around and be content, Lizzy had places she could have solitude and still be with him and he... he would have her, always there with him and by his side.

Sure he enjoyed being with her and coming home to anticipate their next meeting, but he wanted more. He wanted to be with her at night. They were together most of the time whenever Jane stayed at Charles' place, but what happens after she moves? Would he always be there? Would they always live together but not really?

Will shook his head and saw Lizzy walk into the dining room.

'Coffee Robert? Marianne?' She asked and returned to the kitchen seeing Will with a goofy grin on his face.

'What's up?' Lizzy asked as she moved to the coffeemaker.

'Nothing. Just thinking.'

'About what?'

Will watched her make the coffee.

'How is it that you don't like coffee but you know how to make a really good cup?'

'I've always known how to make it, I just don't drink it. Whether it's a good cup or not doesn't matter to me, at least not for my tastes. I guess I do want it to be good for whoever drinks the stuff.'

Will laughed and turned around to grab three cups that Lizzy in turn filled with the steaming brew.

'I'm grabbing dessert and bringing it into the living room, would you join me?' Will asked and when Lizzy nodded, Will went into the dining room and urged his guests to join him.

'So how are we working Monday morning? I know we're leaving really early, but I just want to make sure we have this all straight.' Marianne said as she picked up her plate.

Lizzy walked slowly into the living room with the tray of coffees and her own tea she made and set it on the coffee table.

'Well we don't want to rush to the airport. We are flying out of Dulles so we need to make sure we give ourselves plenty of time. I'm having a car ready to leave around 3:30 since our flight is at 6:30.'

'Oh goodness that's early.' Marianne said with a laugh.

'Well I'm sleeping in the car.' Lizzy said before sipping her drink and moving into the crook of Will's arm.

'Mmm...' Will murmured into her hair and then responded.

'Of course you can sleep in the car. We all can since I'm having a car hired to take us. I don't want to leave our cars at the airport.'

'Good idea. Marianne and I'll meet you there. I'll have a car take us over and we can check in and meet you at the gate.' Robert said.

'You sure? I mean we can just take one car. You don't live far from me, Robert.'

'Well I'm staying at Marianne's so I'll be able to have one pick me up and we should be there around 5:30 at the gate at least. Just get through security.'

Will nodded in understanding and sipped his coffee before biting the cheesecake.

'Hmm this is good.' He said with a sparkle in his eye for Lizzy to see.

She only laughed at him and took a bite of her own.

'You're quiet this evening Lizzy. What's wrong?' Marianne asked between bites.

'Oh nothing. I'm just tired. The last couple of weeks have been draining that's all.'

'Oooh! Is it Caroline again?'

Lizzy smiled.

'No not so much her... just class and work. Nothing I can't handle.'

'Well this break should be good for you then Lizzy.' Robert stated.

Lizzy only nodded her head and settled back into Will's embrace. She looked up at him and smiled.

'I know it will be.' She said looking at him with love in her eyes.

He didn't say a word. Only kissed her lips and looked at Robert and Marianne.

'Anyone want seconds?'

Everyone declined and within 15 minutes, Robert and Marianne had left.

After helping Will clean up, Lizzy plopped herself on his couch, but she didn't stay there long.

‘Come on. I'm driving you home. You need your rest and to get everything you need ready tomorrow.'

Lizzy didn't argue. She was too tired. Will helped her into her jacket and into his car. Within minutes she was asleep.

When Will parked in his usual spot at her apartment complex, he shut off the engine, unbuckled and went to help her out.

It didn't work as planned. Lizzy was fast asleep. Without a sound, Will effortlessly scooped her into his arms and carried her into her apartment.

With smooth ease, he was able to lay her down upon her bed and pull the covers over her. Lightly kissing her forehead and then pressing a firm but gently kiss on her lips, Will left her to sleep.

As he closed the door to her room, Jack made his way towards him and wagged his tail.

‘Hello Jack. Yes boy I know Lizzy's home at last.'

He opened the door again and let him pass then quietly shut the door.

Will grabbed his keys out of his pocket and made his way to the front door.

‘Will?'

He suddenly turned around at the sound of Jane's voice.

‘Hello Jane. I was just bringing Lizzy in. She's asleep.' Will pointed towards her room.

Jane nodded and smiled.

‘Had a good time then?'

‘Yes we did. It was a relaxing day.'

‘Good. I'm glad to hear it.'

‘How did Charles like the cakes?'

Jane smiled and shrugged.

‘He preferred the one Lizzy liked. So we ordered it. I liked it too, but Charles was the one who insisted on it. I couldn't refuse him.'

Will smiled in return.

‘Yeah he loves his sweets. Well Jane everything is working out for you two and I'm very happy to see it. If there is anything I can do, please ask.'

‘Oh thank you Will. I don't think there is anything at the moment, but if something should come up, you'll be the first to know.'

Will nodded with pleasure and turned for the door.

‘I have to go. I'll call Lizzy tomorrow morning. Have a good night Jane.'

‘You too Will. Drive safely.'

Jane shut the door behind him and shook her head with a smile.

‘I wonder when...' she thought and shut off the lights before heading to bed herself.