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Chapter 28

3 am came too soon for Lizzy. She didn't get to bed until 11 last night and now she was running on four hours of sleep. Luckily it was only for a little while. She was determined to sleep in the car on the way to the airport and to sleep on the plane.

Last night Jane had said her farewell along with Charles who told her she would simply love England. Hugs and kisses all around, Lizzy was ready to go to bed.

Now she was up and showered, getting dressed and careful not to wake Jane. Will was on his way and expected to be there in another ten minutes.

She sighed. She'd never been to England, but her excitement took over any nervousness she was feeling. She hurried to gather her last minute items and pack them safely into her suitcase.

Checking the clock again she noticed it was time for Will to be there. No sooner than completing the thought, did Will's number buzz her phone.

‘Hello?' Lizzy said in a hushed tone.

‘I'm downstairs. I'll be up in a minute to carry your things down.'

‘Okay.'

Within a matter of a couple minutes, Will was at the door and smiling at the sight of his tired Lizzy holding Jack in her arms.

‘Have to be quiet. Jack's getting anxious.' Lizzy whispered to him while pointing to where her things were in the hallway.

‘That's because you're leaving for a week. He'll miss you.'

Lizzy didn't pay attention to him. She was too busy cuddling Jack and saying her goodbyes to him. Will slipped out with her luggage and after Lizzy gently shut the door to Jane's room where she led Jack. She grabbed her purse and locked the front door.

As she went down the stairs she huffed.

‘It's way too early to be up!'

She could hear Will chuckle a bit as she came towards the car. He was waiting for her as the driver put the luggage into the trunk.

‘But it's for a good reason. Come on, I have a pillow and blanket for you in the car so you and I can sleep.'

Lizzy smiled tiredly and crawled into the back seat with heavy eyes.

It was a long drive to Dulles Airport, but it was enough time for a nap before having to check in and go through security.

‘I made a change of plans regarding our flight.' Will said as he helped Lizzy out of the car and tipped the man for unloading their luggage.

‘Like what? A later flight?' Lizzy asked sleepily.

Will grinned.

‘No. No, I decided that we are taking my private jet. I called my pilot the other day and made the arrangements. I thought we would enjoy the trip better that way. You'll enjoy it I know you will. Let's go find Robert and Marianne.'

It didn't take long to find them, they were already there and waiting by the check-in counters.

‘Do they know?' Lizzy asked.

Will only nodded taking her hand and leading her towards the other couple.

‘Hey you two. Tired, Lizzy?' Marianne asked in an almost too chipper voice.

‘What do you think?' Lizzy smirked.

‘Well I got your message and I have to say this is a wonderful idea, Will. Where do we go from here though?' Robert asked looking around.

‘Follow me.' Will said tugging on Lizzy's hand. Not quite ready for sudden movements, Lizzy stumbled along before catching herself and walking with Will.

It didn't take long to board and load the jet. They actually were able to take off at 5 am instead of 6:30. After they were settled in, Marianne and Robert decided to sleep after take off while Lizzy fell asleep beforehand. It was going to be a long flight and they weren't due to arrive until 2pm United Kingdom time. Will was the only one awake. He usually got up this early on the weekdays for work.

Will thought about everything he had done yesterday and what needed to be done throughout the week. He wasn't able to see Lizzy yesterday since he wanted to get caught up with his work before taking a much needed vacation. He was in the office after church and then came home late in the evening. Packing was easy. It only took him half an hour. He was in bed by ten and felt well rested this early morning.

However, things were on his mind. Lizzy was a constant thought in his memory and thinking. He was trying to imagine her reaction when seeing Pemberley for the first time. It was a grand estate. One of the finest in the country, perhaps in all of the United Kingdom. But what he found most important was what Lizzy would think of it. In his heart he believed that she would come to love the estate as he did. Now he was finding this to be his dearest wish.

As they soared into the sky, Will didn't look at the view outside. Instead he was watching the view on his right. Lizzy. Dearest loveliest Elizabeth. Oh how his heart was beating while watching her sleep. The quiet cabin (excepting a few snores from Robert) was still and peaceful giving Will the time and place to think about and admire Lizzy.

So peacefully and calmly did she sleep. Her eyes closed and her lips slightly parted, all the while teasing his own lips to touch them. He was in love. Every fiber of his being was in love with her and it grew stronger with every beat of his heart.

His eyes blinked and his lips pressed into a tight line when he thought about the reasons they were flying to Pemberley. It was for a wedding, yes, but not his. Not his own wedding. No indeed, it was for his good friend Robert and his bride-to-be Marianne. As fond as he was of Robert and Marianne, he couldn't deny the ache in his heart for not having it be his own wedding with Lizzy. This wedding was not the first to be had at Pemberley, nor was it to be the last. He would make sure of that. It was the dream both of Georgie and himself to be married there.

He looked again at her and didn't let his eyes move until she shifted in her seat for a more comfortable position. He turned his head.

‘I shall conquer this...I shall.' He said strongly under his breath.

‘What was that Will?'

Will turned in his seat and looked at Robert who was rubbing his eyes and stretching his arms.

‘What? Oh nothing. Nothing, Robert. I wasn't disturbing you, was I?'

Robert let out a soft groan and then shook his head.

‘Not at all. I just thought I heard you say something.'

Will looked at his watch. They had already been in the air an hour and a half.

‘It was nothing. Can I get you anything? Something to drink? Eat?'

‘I think I'll use the restroom. Be right back.'

Will was left with his thoughts for a few moments unless Robert decided to sleep again.

He turned to Lizzy again and sighed.

'Someday it will happen...' He thought. 'Someday...'

Lizzy finally awoke 45 minutes before they were to land. She felt better having rested completely but she also felt a bit embarrassed since she was the last of the group to wake.

'Morning sleepy Lizzy.' Marianne said brightly looking up from her book of poetry.

'Morning guys.'

Will looked at her with new admiration since his musings earlier. He said nothing, but simply took her hand and intertwined their fingers together.

A soft kiss was gently accepted on Lizzy's forehead and with a smile he was thanked.

'How much longer until we're there?' she asked still sleepy.

'Not long. About 45 minutes or so. Would you like some breakfast?' Will asked soothingly and pressed a button.

Lizzy nodded and stretched her limbs. Before she knew it a tray of yogurt, toast, bacon, and hot tea was before her.

'Thank you.' She said softly to the attendant.

'Take your time.' Will said as he leaned in to give her another kiss.

Lizzy listened to the three of them discuss more wedding plans but she soon grew tired of it and turned to the window. Will was gracious in giving her the option of a window or aisle seat. It was a small enough jet to fit eight people comfortably, and no matter which seat you had, you could see the view. Lizzy opted for the window and was now admiring the view while eating her breakfast.

It was absolutely beautiful. There were a few clouds in the sky, but the sunlight was gorgeous and the sea below seemed to glisten.

Lizzy immediately felt better after having something to eat and watching the view from her window. She wasn't even startled when Will placed his hand over hers. She turned to him and smiled. She felt at peace.

‘We should be landing soon. I'm going to speak with the captain. I'll be right back.' Will moved from his seat but not before seeing Lizzy smile again with a nod.

Marianne took the opportunity to move into Will's vacated seat and gave Lizzy a small but warm hug.

‘I'm beyond happy right now. I think we all needed this break and what better than to be with the ones we love, right?'

Lizzy laughed.

‘You are excited, aren't you? It's not even your wedding day yet and you're on cloud nine.'

Marianne grinned.

‘Cloud nine is wonderful. I can't wait until you're on the bandwagon.'

Lizzy looked down and chuckled.

‘Well I'm getting up there. I think I'm on cloud six right now.' Lizzy said and looked up to a laughing Marianne. She shortly joined her and Robert turned to them.

‘What's so funny?' He asked holding the book he was reading in his hands down in his lap.

Marianne flipped her hand at him and smiled.

‘Just girl talk. Telling Lizzy how much I'm in love with you.'

‘Mmm...well I think you should get back over here because Will's on his way.'

The girls looked in the direction Robert's eyes were already fixed and saw Will with a grin on his face walk towards them.

‘Are we switching seats now?'

Marianne stood up and shook her head.

‘No, I was just talking to Lizzy. You can have your seat back. I've been summoned to return to my seat anyways.' She gave a sly look to Robert who in return grinned and returned to his book.

‘We will be landing shortly. I think we should get ready for it. Buckle up Elizabeth. We're here.'

The landing was smooth and a car was waiting for them on the tarmac where they were stationed.

Will helped Lizzy and Robert helped Marianne exit the jet and get into the waiting car. Will spoke a few minutes with the pilot thanking him for his help and then to the driver with instructions to Pemberley.

‘We should be there in a few hours. However, we're stopping at a restaurant on the way there for lunch. It's nearly 2:30 now.'

Without any complaints they were off for the long drive ahead of them.

When they reached the restaurant, both of the girls had to be woken up and slowly they entered with hungry stomachs.

After they ate a filling meal, they all climbed back into the car and were back on their way to Pemberley.

‘How far are we from here Will?' Marianne eventually asked.

‘Well this is Lambton and my estate is only five miles away. So not too long.'

When they entered the gates to the estate and drove through the wooded area, Marianne started to giggle.

‘I think we passed through enough woods to satisfy your tastes Lizzy.'

Lizzy nearly groaned.

‘I know. Will we reach the house before dark, do you think?' Lizzy inquired rolling her eyes playfully.

‘Be patient my love.' Will said and pressed the button to the driver.

‘Stop up here at the clearing please.'

Within a few moments, the car stopped and Will pushed the window button to go down.

‘Welcome to Pemberley.' He said serenely.

Lizzy and Marianne looked out his window and nearly fainted. Marianne went on about how grand and beautiful it was. Lizzy said nothing.

The estate was too beautiful for words. The rolling manicured lawns met the house and the river in front of the house lapped by calmly. She had never seen a place for which nature had done more, or where natural beauty had been so little counteracted by an awkward taste.

The house itself, well, it was grand indeed! Tall pillars holding up the stone and the grand statues guarding the house were on top of the gable watching down below. It was a tall, proud house, much like its owner.

The Spanish chestnuts around it created a peaceful atmosphere no matter how intimidating the structure may have felt. Lizzy felt nothing of it. Only her heart beating faster and her mind racing to determine her emotions.

‘Do you like it?' The hot breath from Will's mouth lightly tickled her ear when he asked her.

Lizzy only nodded. She didn't hear any of the conversation up to the house. She looked out the window the entire time.

When they did reach the house, she shook her head and allowed herself to be helped out of the car by Will.

Marianne was rambling non-stop about how wonderful the house was. She hugged Robert and moved to hug Will then Lizzy.

‘Isn't this perfect?! I simply love it! Oh Will! Thank you! Thank you!' She gave him another hug as he laughed.

‘You're welcome, Marianne. Shall we go inside and give you a tour?' He looked around the group and they all nodded. He grabbed Lizzy's hand and tugged on her to join him.

Inside was even more breathtaking. The rooms were large, but beautifully decorated. Generations of generations had dwelled here and it was apparent the house was maintained with great care.

Will allowed his housekeeper, Mrs. Reynolds to give the primary tour. He gave his insight at certain points, but allowed Mrs. Reynolds full reign.

‘Mrs. Reynolds, allow me the privilege of introducing to you Marianne Dashwood and Elizabeth Bennet. You recall Robert Brandon of course.'

Mrs. Reynolds with warm eyes smiled at her guests and greeted them kindly.

‘It's always a pleasure, Mr. Brandon. Miss Dashwood and Miss Bennet I'm very pleased to make your acquaintance. I'm sure you are looking forward to your wedding dear?'

Marianne's face froze with the smile she was beaming since she had stepped into the house.

‘Oh yes! Very much. I'm so happy I can't tell you.'

‘Well I'm very glad to hear it. Shall you like a tour now?'

The five of them walked throughout the house, seeing all the rooms available to the public.

‘We usually show the house to school groups or private tours, even researchers of many different time periods. Though late this summer, we are closing to prepare for the wedding.'

Lizzy took it all in as best she could. When they finished with the inside, Mrs. Reynolds took them to the gardens off the west wing.

Here everyone split up looking at the different flowers and plants spreading throughout the immaculate gardens.

Lizzy sat on a bench hidden from the group and let out a deep breath. She felt like she had held onto it since seeing the house. It was magnificent. That hardly explained it. No words could describe how she was feeling.

She was alone for a short time because Will came and gently sat next to her.

‘I hope you're not displeased with Pemberley?'

Lizzy shook her head.

‘You approve then?'

Lizzy looked into his eyes. She could see the fear of her not approving. Immediately she understood. He wanted her to love this place as he did. He wanted her approval. No matter how he felt about it, no matter what, her opinion mattered the most to him.

Her eyes never left his and she softly smiled.

‘Yes very much... There are few who could not approve.' she added with that twinkle in her eye.

‘But your opinion is more worth the earning.'

Lizzy blushed and mouthed thank you before she finally tore her eyes away.

‘This is a beautiful garden.'

‘My mother was very happy with it. She loved coming here when Georgie and I were young. She would read to us here.'

‘Hmm...'

Will continued to look at her and then a thought came to mind.

‘I'd like to show you my favorite spot if I could.'

Lizzy's face lit up.

‘I'd like that very much Will.'

His lips turned up and his hand squeezed hers.

‘Allow me to take you there tomorrow.'

Lizzy nodded.

‘Will? Will?' They both heard Marianne call from a farther part of the garden.

Will tugged on Lizzy to join him and they met up with Marianne and Robert.

Dinner was an informal affair. Mrs. Berth, however, outdid herself. Food was never-ending on the table. Lizzy thought she wouldn't be able to eat for months after dinner. Marianne wasn't much better off. She felt fuller than an elephant, but was happy to be able to enjoy such wonderful food.

‘This is so good, yet so much!' Marianne said with a giggle.

‘Oh yes! I don't think I can move. Do you think that I could just sleep in here?' Lizzy tried to get up.

‘It's official. I can't get up.' Lizzy laughed.

‘Guess you're just going to have to live here for good then Lizzy.' Robert said with a laugh.

Everyone laughed except Will. He was lost in his thoughts about Lizzy living there. He would move back here in a heartbeat if she wanted.

‘Will? Are you okay?' Marianne asked when she noticed he wasn't laughing with them.

He smiled.

‘I'm wonderful. But I think Mrs. Berth would be disappointed in not having dessert served.'

‘What's for dessert?' Robert said while the ladies groaned from being so full.

‘Chocolate soufflé.'

‘Mmmm...' came from the lips of the girls who were instantly bright eyed and looking around for dessert.

‘I think you can serve that.' Robert leaned towards Will.

They both laughed and the dessert was brought out for them. Robert couldn't finish his, but Marianne happily helped him out.

‘I'll do anything for chocolate.' Lizzy murmured while licking her spoon clean of the warm gooey delight.

‘Hmm...me too.' Marianne hummed.

Will looked at Robert and paused before responding.

‘Make note of that Robert, I might use that to my advantage.'

Robert bellowed a laugh and Will joined him before asking what everyone felt like doing next.

‘Now I know I can't move!' Lizzy cried as she pushed her clean plate forward.

‘Mmmhmmm.' Marianne agreed.

Robert wiped his mouth with his napkin and pushed himself out of his chair.

‘I think we're going to retire now. Thank you for a wonderful meal Will. I'll be sure to personally thank Mrs. Berth before we leave at the end of the week.' Robert said as he helped Marianne out of her chair.

Will put up his hand.

‘Anytime. You know that. I'll make sure Gloria sees you all before we leave. Good night.'

‘Good night!' They both chimed and left to their rooms Mrs. Reynolds showed them to earlier.

Will looked over at Lizzy. Her eyes were closed but a smile was on her lips.

‘What?' She said never opening her eyes.

‘Tired?'

Lizzy rubbed her hand of an itch and slowly shook her head.

‘No just full. You?'

Will smiled and leaned towards her, his elbows on the table and his arms crossed.

‘Not at all.' He looked at her closely and then said, ‘I could sit with you here forever.'

Slowly Lizzy's eyes opened.

She peered at him and then smiled.

‘You could huh? Forever? That's a pretty long time.'

‘All the better to spend it with you.'

Lizzy slightly blushed and sat up in her chair.

‘Want me to take you to your room?'

Lizzy made a face.

‘My room? Wasn't I going to share a room with you?'

Will grinned then shrugged and then stood up.

‘Come on. I'll take you up.'

‘Going to carry me?' She said slyly.

Will looked down at her and without a sound effortlessly scooped her up.

Lizzy put her arms around his neck and smiled.

‘As you wish madam.'

Lizzy giggled softly.

‘Why thank you kind sir.'

Will turned to go out of the room and walked towards the grand staircase.

When he reached the top, he turned to walk down the long corridor to another set of steps.

‘Where are we going?'

‘To your rooms.' Will said.

‘My rooms?'

Will nodded.

‘Okay...' Lizzy said and snuggled closer to him.

Up the flight of stairs were double doors leading into a huge master suite of a sitting room.

Directly in front of them was another set of double doors and on each side of them were two doors.

‘What's this?' Lizzy asked gently.

‘This is the master sitting room. The door to the right is my room and the door to the left is your room.'

‘And the doors in front of us?'

Will didn't answer. Instead he opened her door and walked in.

A smaller sitting room greeted them and to the right was the bedroom. It was grand indeed with soft natural colors of woods warmly giving a comforting effect.

Will put Lizzy down and allowed her to step into the room.

‘This is beautiful.'

‘Thank you. You can stay here tonight if you'd like. I'm just in the room through that door.'

Lizzy nodded without really hearing him and before she noticed, Will left.

While she thought it odd, she noticed her luggage was nowhere to be found. She checked the drawers and the closet, but her belongings weren't anywhere. She checked the bathroom off to the side and nothing of hers could be found.

‘Strange.' She said and walked towards the door Will said was his.

She turned the knob and walked through.

‘Will do you know where my---Oh my...'

Through the doors was the master suite. A large canopy bed with dark red drapes covered the canopy. A fireplace was in front of the bed and had white roses in vases on top. Lizzy noticed white rose petals on the floor in a pathway to the bed. She walked over not noticing the other beautiful furniture in the room welcoming her presence. It was such a warm tasteful room but Lizzy was unaware while following the rose petals.

On the bed was a envelope.

She saw her name carefully written and opened it.

‘My dearest loveliest Elizabeth,

This is our room, together. Please make yourself comfortable and I will join you momentarily.

I love you,

Will'

Lizzy smiled with great joy as she found all her luggage and toiletries. She still felt full, but she instantly felt better when she put black shorts and a white tank top on and waited for Will on the large bed.

He came in after a short while with a smile on his face.

‘How come you didn't tell me about this room? I thought that room was mine?' Lizzy asked pointing to the door she came in through.

Will laughed.

‘Well that is your room silly, but this is our room.'

Lizzy peered at him.

‘Well I don't know why you couldn't have told me this was our room.'

‘Lizzy,' Will said moving towards her and sitting on the bed, ‘ That room is yours if you like. You can stay in whichever room you would like. I wanted to give you a choice. However I think this room suits your needs does it not?'

Lizzy looked at him and smiled.

‘It does. More than I could ever have imagined.'

‘Good. This was my parents' room when we would stay here.'

Lizzy smiled and looked closely at the furnishings and the paintings. It was very elegant and refined, but it spoke Will to her. Nothing seemed out of place.

When she finished looking about the room with her eyes, she looked at Will.

His eyes felt as though they were burning into hers. She started to blush, but Will kissed her slowly.

Deep and tender was the love she felt for him growing inside of her.

‘Would you like to sleep? I know you've been tired throughout the day.' Will said pulling slowly away from her a bit.

She was tired, but at the same time she didn't want him to stop.

‘No. I can think of something much better to do than get a full night's rest.' giving him a sly smile.

With only a side smile and a slight nod, Will understood and inched towards her having her lay onto her back.

‘I think I know what you're looking for.'

Lizzy smirked and started to smile.

‘Really now?' she said naughtily.

‘Oh yes.' He kissed her forehead and then her cheek. Slowly he moved towards her lips and before touching them he smiled.

‘Good night my love.' And started to move.

Lizzy quickly grabbed him by his shirt and pulled him towards her.

‘Oh no you don't!'

Lizzy woke to the soft chirping of birds outside the window and the warm sunlight beaming on her face. She pushed her foot back to find the bed empty. Pulling her body up to look around the room she found only herself.

With a quizzical look, she started out of bed and padded to the bathroom. After she refreshed, she shrugged her shoulders when she realized Will was not back. Deciding to start her day, she took a shower and dressed. Her stomach growling, surprisingly after the dinner she had, she smiled. She knew why she was hungry.

With her memory kicked into full gear trying to remember how to get back downstairs, she ventured out from the master suite and into the hallway. Down the stairs into the second floor corridor, Lizzy started to bite her lip in hoping to go the right way.

No one was around, but as she walked closer to the stairway she remembered she needed to go down. Marianne came out from the left side holding a camera.

‘Where have you been?' She asked Lizzy as Lizzy came closer.

‘I just woke up. Why?'

‘It's almost ten.'

‘Don't I always get up a little later on vacations?' Lizzy tried.

‘Oh don't be silly.'

‘What's with the camera?' Lizzy asked pointing to her arms.

Marianne shifted the camera from one arm to the next.

‘Robert and I are going out to take some photos for everyone back home. Mostly for the wedding plans you see.'

‘Ahh. Do you know where Will is?'

Marianne thought for a moment and shook her head.

‘I think he's waiting for you in the dining room. He came in after we finished.'

Lizzy started to walk with Marianne beside her to the stairway and headed down.

‘It's a beautiful day out. You two should join us when you're through eating.'

Lizzy nodded her consent and followed Marianne into the dining room where they both found Will and Robert.

‘Good morning Lizzy. Marianne are you ready?' Robert asked taking the camera from her arm.

Marianne nodded and together they left.

Will smiled and came to Lizzy giving her a peck on the forehead.

‘Good morning beautiful. Sleep well?' He asked with a smirk.

Lizzy examined him and then took a short deep breath.

‘Yes I did, what little I did get.

‘Yes seem to remember that you weren't ready to go to bed so soon as I had anticipated you would be.'

Lizzy blushed but ignored him.

‘You weren't there when I woke up.' It sounded as though she questioned him, but rather she was stating the fact.

Will shifted in his spot as Lizzy sat down to eat.

‘I had some business to attend to. I apologize.'

‘No need.' Lizzy said brightly as she scooped some scrambled eggs onto her plate.

‘Lizzy?'

‘Hmm?' She popped a bit of bacon into her mouth and poured herself some apple juice.

‘Lizzy, I'd like you to allow me the honor of introducing to you someone very dear to me today.'

Lizzy looked up at him. He was standing right beside her with a serious look on his face. It suited him, but Lizzy was in a far better mood than to have him serious.

‘Sit down Will, eat if you haven't already. What's with the seriousness anyways?'

Will didn't sit down. Rather he stood there and started to shift again in his spot.

‘Well this person is very important to me and I---‘

‘Will?'

Will looked down at hearing her voice.

‘Sit down.'

Will did as he was told and stared at her eating her food. She noticed and stopped before looking at him, turning her whole body to give him her full attention.

‘Honey, what's wrong with you? You're starting to worry me.'

Will shook his head.

‘I'm sorry. You're right.' He took a deep breath and began.

‘Georgie is coming home today, later this afternoon, and I want you two to meet. It means the world to me that you two have become so close, but in meeting I hope your bond will be stronger.'

‘Georgie will be here? Today?' Lizzy perked up at her name and her eyes brightened like the sun shining through the tall windows of the dining room.

‘Yes.'

‘Oh Will! I can't wait! I've been dying to meet her and to meet her here at Pemberley, imagine. Oh yes Will I am very happy to hear this news.' Lizzy squealed and turned again to her food.

Will cocked his head to one side, curious in seeing her joy and eating at the same time.

‘You really like the food here huh?'

Lizzy only nodded.

‘It's wonderful. Don't tell Jane, but I think this is better than hers.' She smiled and kept on eating.

‘When you're done we should meet with Marianne and Robert. I have some plans for them drawn up that I need them to see.'

‘Oh! Look at you taking care of the wedding plans. You act as though you've done this before.'

Will frowned and when Lizzy didn't hear a response she looked at him.

‘You haven't? Right?' she asked.

‘No, I haven't, but that doesn't mean I don't know what I'm doing.'

‘Will I was teasing. Get used to it. Soon I'll be having you laugh at yourself and the way you can be so serious at times.'

Will paused and then rubbed her shoulders.

‘Finished?'

Lizzy nodded with a bit of toast and another drink of juice.

‘Good, let's go meet them.'

Will and Lizzy met up with Marianne and Robert in the gardens. Marianne was busy clicking away with her camera as Robert watched on. Robert noticed them first as they walked closer.

‘She's found a few spots she thinks would be good for the ceremony.'

Will looked around at the white and yellow roses budding on the bushes and the boxwood hedges lining the rock filled lanes. It was spacious enough for holding as many people as Marianne and Robert wanted to invite.

‘Hmm well this is a wonderful rose garden for a wedding. I'll have the gardener available to discuss the placement of tents and chairs.'

Will left the group momentarily to call the gardener over.

‘This would be great to put the ceremony here. I could walk in from this angle from the house and it's not too far for people to stand and watch.' Marianne said as she paused from taking photographs.

‘It would be lovely.' Lizzy remarked smiling.

Marianne sighed.

‘Well I think that would settle it. Should we tell Will then?' Robert said taking the camera from Marianne.

‘Tell me what?' Will asked walking along with his gardener.

‘This is the spot where I want to be married.' Marianne said clasping Robert's free hand.

Will smiled at them and introduced his gardener, Thomas Livingston.

‘This is a perfect spot Marianne. Thomas, survey the garden for the chair placement and I want two tents in the area there under the tree.' Will said pointing towards the spacious green lawn next to the gardens.

Thomas acknowledged the order and with his handheld device, gave instruction for his team to come out and help him.

Will watched over the plans while the other three sat on the veranda looking over the gardens talking about the reception menu.

‘Will has a wonderful menu planned. If it's anything like last night's dinner I'll be in heaven!' Marianne cried happily.

Robert laughed and kissed his lady on her cheek.

‘You must really love this menu. I certainly do. Mrs. Berth is to make the wedding cake too I see.'

Lizzy sighed.

‘Most of the plans are already made for you sweetie.' Lizzy said as she glanced over the draft for the menu and drinks to be served.

‘Oh that's all right. I actually love everything he's chosen. He incorporated everything Robert and I had picked out. This spot is perfect too. I feel very happy with everything.'

Lizzy watched the two of them happily agree with everything Will had done. She smiled and shifted in her seat.

‘Hmm... I think he has executed everything wonderfully. You two must be very happy.'

Marianne beamed at Lizzy.

‘We are. It's splendid to have him help us out with everything. I just can't believe how it's all coming together. I'm simply in love with this place.'

Robert took her hand and smiled.

‘He has been very kind to us. I think we should take him out to dinner. Although that's hardly a fulfilling thank you.'

‘Oh I'm sure we can find another way to thank him, but that's a great idea! Let's do it tonight.' Marianne said cheerfully placing the menu she had in her hands down onto the table.

‘I'll talk with him when he gets back then. I'm sure he wouldn't have a problem with it.' Robert grinned and noticed Will walking up the stairs.

‘Everything should work out just fine. Did you find everything agreeable with the menu?' Will asked as he walked towards them.

‘We love it Will! Thank you.' Marianne said as she stood up and gave Will a warm hug.

Will chuckled and said it was nothing.

‘I just want you two to have a beautiful wedding. I hope I can make it memorable for you.'

‘Oh it will be. Don't worry.' Robert said and then began about dinner.

‘That's fine with me. You really don't have to though. I need no thank you from you. Just enjoy your wedding and allow me to make it happen the way you want it.'

He moved behind Lizzy and placed his hands on her shoulders. Lizzy placed one of her hands over his and gently rubbed his fingers.

‘I hope you don't mind though, Georgie is coming home today.'

Robert and Marianne beamed with gladness in hearing her name.

‘Oh I can't wait to meet her! I've heard many things about her from Robert here.' Marianne said with a big smile.

‘When is she coming?' Robert asked.

‘She should be here this afternoon. I'm not sure if she's having lunch with us or not, but she will be here for dinner.'

‘Oh that's no problem at all. We'll be glad to take her out with us.' Robert said with a wink.

‘Well if you have no problems with the menu, why don't I show you the seating chart?' Will said moving towards the door of the house.

‘He's thought of everything!' Marianne exclaimed.

‘Yes my love, he has,' Robert started, ‘He tends to think of everything and making sure everyone is taken care of, especially in regards to his home. He's an exceptional host.'

As soon as he finished his sentence, Will came to the table.

‘I do my best. But thank you for the compliment Robert.' He said with a blush crossing his face.

‘Nothing but the best for Darcy.' Robert slyly stated.

Will glanced at Lizzy before giving him a look and laid the plans on the table, then sat in a vacant chair next to Lizzy and Marianne.

‘Well look this over and let me know what you think. I gathered all the names from your previous seating chart and, with some help from Robert here, placed everyone where I believe they would be best to sit.'

They both scanned it over and when finished, Marianne handed it to Lizzy while saying,

‘I can't believe how you were able to put everyone. I was having some problems with a few of the guests but look at you! You put them perfectly in separate spots where they won't have any problems.'

‘What do you mean Marianne?' Lizzy asked trying to see the situation. She laid the paper on the table and allowed Marianne to point out her meaning.

‘Well mom and Mrs. Ferrars don't get along. However I couldn't not invite her and with my previous seating chart, I had no other choice than to put them together, but Will put Mrs. Ferrars at the end of the table with my aunt Margaret and her Robert and his girlfriend Lucy. Although she doesn't like Lucy, she loves her son to death, so she won't put up a fuss.'

‘I know how Mrs. Ferrars can be. I've met her a couple times and have nonetheless heard as well as had some time in instances to observe the two of them. I just thought it would work better this way. I observed they do get along in social instances.' Will explained.

‘And it's perfect Will. Really it is.' Robert said.

‘Look at you being the little observer.' Lizzy said playfully earning her a blushing smile from Will who had to look away from Lizzy's smile and intense gaze.

‘Well I have no problems with the seating chart. Look you even put Caroline in her place.' Marianne started to laugh. Robert looked and found her and tried to hide a smile.

‘What? Where?' Lizzy leaned over to see where she was to sit. When she found her, she slowly leaned back into her chair and looked at Will.

‘You are a very bad man Mr. Darcy.' She said calmly.

Will tried to hide his smile but it was of no use.

With as straight a face he could muster, Will said,

‘I don't know what you're talking about madam.'

He sat straight in his chair, hands clasped and trying very hard not to laugh.

Lizzy's face held a smile. She never tried to hide it. Instead she knew what he was thinking.

‘Should she even come, I'm not sure she would be so happy to sit next to him!'

‘Well I'm sure she would come. She was on the list.'

‘I had to put her on there Lizzy, even though I didn't want to.' Marianne spoke up.

‘I'm sure any excuse to be here would make her come and perhaps even enough to sit next to that man himself, however this is Caroline.'

‘Hmm... well she'll just have to deal with it then now won't she?' Will said firmly and crossed his leg and sat back in his chair.

Lizzy pulled her legs up towards her and hugged her knees and put her face into them trying hard to suppress a smile.

‘What?' Will asked with a grin.

Lizzy moved her face to the side and smiled.

‘Oh Will... Dr. Collins? How could you?'

Will smiled and then began to laugh.

‘With ease.' He replied and smiled.

The rest of the morning moved with simplicity. Most of the arrangements were complete thanks to Will. Marianne and Robert found hardly anything to change or disagree with. The remainder of the day was to be spent in relaxation and leisure.

Will suggested they have lunch outdoors but on another veranda facing the river. As they were enjoying another famous luncheon prepared by Mrs. Berth, Will was advised to take a call in the study.

Excusing himself, he went into the house and walked to his study. Thinking who it could be, perhaps Brandson, Will didn't notice his sister standing at the window with a huge smile on her face.

‘Will!'

He looked up from his stride towards his desk and his face broke into a huge smile.

‘Georgie! My goodness you're here!'

‘Just arrived.' She replied with a smile.

They both embraced each other and he gave her a kiss on the cheek.

‘Wonderful! We were just having lunch have you eaten?'

‘We? Oh are they here? Is Lizzy here?' She said excitedly.

Will nodded and grasped her hand tugging on it to join him.

‘Oh wait! Wait... Will? I need to-'

‘What is it? Something wrong?' Will asked her with a worried face.

Georgie shook her head.

‘No no nothing is wrong. I just want to go change real quick. I'll be two minutes.' She said letting go of his hand and leaving him in the study.

‘I'll wait right here!' He called after her. Georgie waved back at him and went up the stairs.

Fifteen minutes later, Georgie rushed from her room and down the stairs to meet Will in the hallway. She felt better in her light blue sundress and sandals.

‘You look beautiful sweetie. Ready?' Will took her hand gently and with a nod from Georgie, they walked out onto the veranda.

Finding both Lizzy and Marianne laughing and Robert sipping on his sangria, Will smiled warmly and let go of his sister's hand to guide her with it on the small of her back.

‘Everyone, may I introduce to you my sister, Georgiana. Georgie, this is Robert's fiancé Marianne Dashwood.'

‘Wonderful to meet you Marianne.' Georgie smiled and shook her hand lightly.

‘Oh it's such a pleasure! I'm so happy to meet you! I've heard so much about you from Robert and even Lizzy here.'

Will smiled and turned to Lizzy who stood up to greet her warmly.

‘And this is Lizzy.' Will said.

‘Lizzy! Oh I'm so happy that we finally meet!' She giggled and gave her a warm hug. Lizzy, slightly taken by surprise at the warm greeting, started to laugh as she hugged her back.

‘It's wonderful that you're here!' Lizzy said still embracing her.

Georgie pulled back and smiled. Robert moved forward and hugged her gently.

‘You look lovely my dear. I hope you're well.' He said pulling from their short embrace.

‘I'm very well now that I'm done with school for the semester.'

‘Would you like to have lunch with us?' Marianne asked with a sweet smile.

‘Of course I would. Thank you.'

She sat down with them all and after piling her plate with the delicious food Mrs. Berth made and being served a drink, she began to eat.

‘Mmm. This is so good. Gloria outdoes herself all the time.' Georgie said as she bit into her asparagus.

‘Hmm-mmm. I'm completely stuffed-again!' Lizzy said as she pushed her empty plate in front of her.

Will rubbed her hand and started to eat his cold salad.

‘She loves to entertain with food.' He said savoring his bite.

‘Hmm, well she does an excellent job.' Lizzy said.

‘Will tells me you two are getting married this fall right?' Georgie looked towards Marianne.

‘Yes, you're brother is absolutely perfect. I'm so happy with the plans and how everything is turning out. It's going to be so romantic.'

Georgie glowed at her brother.

‘Well look at you Will, you might have a new job in store for you.'

‘What and give up CEO of Pemberley Enterprises for wedding planning? Never!' Will said playfully.

All of them laughed at Will and shook their heads.

‘Well as amazing as you are doing this, I think you should really keep your daytime job.' Robert said and sipped his drink.

‘What are you're plans for the rest of the day?' Georgie asked them.

She looked around the table and finding no real response, Robert spoke up.

‘Marianne and I are taking everyone out to dinner tonight. Other than that, since Will has pretty much everything taken care of, we have no other plans for today.'

‘Will, I saw the piano in your music room. Would I be able to practice a bit on it?' Marianne asked.

Before Will could respond Georgie finished her bite and smiled.

‘Of course you can! In fact, if you would like, we could play together if you want? I love the piano. I even have a harp I can play while you play piano.'

Marianne laughed and agreed that she would love to play with her. Finishing their lunch, Robert, Marianne, and Georgie left for the music room, leaving behind Will and Lizzy, who both declined to join them.

Will sat back and looked over his land. The sound of the birds and the warmth from the sun shining onto the veranda and the land in front of them, made him feel complete. Especially with Lizzy next to him, Will was happy, content and wanted to hold onto these moments. Slowly he took Lizzy's hand and caressed the back of it with his thumb.

Lizzy looked at him and smiled before gazing out onto the river.

‘Can you fish in the river?' Lizzy asked looking at it.

‘Yes you can. There are pike and trout mostly. What? You like fishing?'

Lizzy giggled.

‘Of course I do. It's a very relaxing activity. I used to fish at my grandpa's house in Minnesota and sometimes at home. I don't do it very much anymore, but I like it.'

Will smiled and then turned to her.

‘Would you like to fish now?'

Lizzy looked at him and beamed as she nodded her head.

Half an hour later, Will and Lizzy were fishing in the river. Lizzy had her calves and feet in the cool water gently wading them back and forth while Will laid next to her.

‘I haven't done this in ages.' Will said.

‘Really? What do you do in the summers here then Will?'

Will shrugged and then replied,

‘Georgie and I usually lounge around. Lounge on the veranda or go water skiing or jet skiing in the lake a couple of miles from here.'

‘What? A lake you own? Or one the locals use too? Is it big enough for you and the locals to share? Or do you have to share the equipment?' Lizzy giggled.

Will laughed.

‘This lake is really big. In fact it's huge.' He said with his eyes growing wide as he told her.

‘And it's all my own.' He continued.

‘Can you show me?' Lizzy asked.

‘Of course I can. Though the water's a bit cool now, we can certainly take our boat out and sail around.'

Lizzy chirped.

‘I'd love that. What else do you do?'

Will thought a moment.

‘Richard comes here for the summer. He always has fun coming up with things to do. We usually just do whatever we feel like doing. It's a vacation so I don't usually plan too much. Just try to relax.'

‘Hmm... You know I know Richard right?'

Will looked at her with curiosity.

‘Really?' He asked almost surprised.

‘Mmm hmm. I met him with Elinor and Jane at a Christmas party. We got along really well and we hung out a few times, but I hardly talk to him anymore. I didn't know you two were related until Marianne told me at her engagement party.'

Will propped himself up on his elbow and with his free hand slowly moved his fishing rod back and forth watching the line sway in the water.

‘He's one of my closest friends. He comes here almost every summer for a few weeks if not the whole season.' Will stated absentmindedly.

Lizzy looked at him saying nothing.

‘Is he coming this summer?' She asked after a few minutes.

Will looked up at her and thought for a moment.

‘I think he will be. I got an email from him last week telling me he was taking leave from the army for a few weeks coming July but I might not be here.'

‘Well what would he do then? If you're not here I mean.'

Will thought another moment and then shrugged.

‘I suppose he would visit us in Virginia. Otherwise he's welcome to stay here as much as he likes.'

‘Hmm.' Lizzy looked over the river and then watched her legs kick gently in the water.

‘When's the last time you two spoke?' Will asked sitting up.

‘About a year ago or so. I hung out with him a few times while Eliot was in Alabama, but when he came home, I wasn't able to see Richard that much. We had lunch a few times, but then it was reduced to emails and soon nothing. I miss him. He was a lot of fun to talk to and be around.'

Will smiled when Lizzy looked at him.

‘That's his natural charm.' He said.

Silence took over, but was welcome as the two of them relaxed by the river.

It was only a few moments later that Lizzy's line was tugging on her hand.

‘Oh! I think I got one!' She exclaimed, shaking the two of them out of their reveries and focusing on her catch.

‘Pull firmly now. That's it. Keep coming. Oh you almost had it!' Will cried watching her try to snag her catch.

Will's arms immediately found themselves around Lizzy's back and arms trying to help him pull the little bugger up.

Lizzy wasn't able to successfully reel her line in because she was laughing too hard. She was having a great time with Will and learning about his childhood home. She was happy when his arms enclosed around her to help her finish the task.

Sure enough a nice size trout flipped and flopped onto the riverbank. Will quickly moved towards it to release the fish from the line. After a few moments, he put the fish on ice and helped bait her hook again.

‘Here.' He said calmly and watched her cast was ease.

‘Thank you.' Lizzy said trying to subside her giggles.

They continued to fish and lounge around the riverbank until they caught five fish and called it a day.

As they walked hand in hand back up to the house, Will stopped before they reached the gravel drive.

‘What is it?' Lizzy said as she stopped next to him.

Will set down the fish and tackle and took the fishing rods from Lizzy's arm and set them down too.

‘I just wanted to kiss you properly before we went back inside.'

And before she could answer, he engaged her.

Pulling back and looking at her with his hands on her arms, he smiled.

‘Thank you for a wonderful afternoon.' He said softly and began to pick up their gear.

Lizzy chuckled and helped him with the gear and grabbed his hand.

‘Anytime sweetie. I love being with you.'

‘And I you.' He said low enough for only her to hear.

When they reached the house, Lizzy and Will parted. Will went to give the fish to Mrs. Berth and Lizzy went to change and get ready for dinner. On her way to her room, she was met with Georgie.

‘Hi Lizzy!'

‘Oh hi Georgie! How was the music room?'

Georgie started to laugh.

‘It was fun. I haven't played in a long time, so it was nice to play again and also with someone else. Did you and Will have a good time this afternoon?'

‘Yes we did, we went fishing in the river.'

Georgie's eyes lit up.

‘Oh fun! I haven't done that in ages. Did you catch anything?'

Lizzy nodded.

‘Five trout. Will caught a few pikes but he was looking to catch the trout.' Lizzy leaned closer to Georgie, ‘ I caught the trout.'

Georgie smiled and shook her head.

‘Looks like that might be dinner tomorrow night then. Mrs. Berth makes a wonderful dish with trout. Are you going to get ready for dinner now?'

‘Yeah, I need a shower.'

‘Mind if I walk with you up to your room?'

Lizzy and Georgie took their time walking to the master suite all the while talking about Pemberley and what has happened since they last spoke.

‘I was thinking that you and I should do something together while you're here. I know Robert and Marianne have plans the day after tomorrow to go into town and scope the area, would you like to get together with me and do something?'

Lizzy smiled and nodded.

‘I'd love that Georgie. Whatever you have in mind is perfect with me.'

‘Wonderful! I'm sure Will has a few things he needs to get done here. I know he mentioned something about estate finances and such.'

‘I'm sure Will can cope for a day. Your plan's a good one.'

Georgie beamed at Lizzy and when they reached the room, Georgie smiled.

‘I see Will has you two in the best rooms.'

Lizzy curiously looked at her.

‘What do you mean?'

Georgie started to giggle and then shook her head.

‘Whenever Will stays here, he usually stays in his room. Right down the hall there.' Georgie said pointing down the corridor.

‘No one has used these rooms since my parents. I just find it sweet.'

Lizzy was shocked but overcome with a huge smile.

‘Really?' she asked.

Georgie only nodded.

‘Wow.' Lizzy said under her breath.

‘Well I'll let you change. See you soon!' With a wave she turned and left Lizzy in the hallway.

Shaking her head slightly, she entered the room and went to turn the shower on.

‘Interesting Will Darcy, very interesting.' She said to herself while undressing before stepping into the shower.

Will shortly after entered the room and heard the shower running.

Lizzy emerged a few minutes later finding him undressing for his turn in the shower.

‘I just spoke with Robert. They made reservations for 6 so we need to leave here in about 30 minutes.' Will said with a smile as pulled his robe around him and moved towards Lizzy giving her a kiss on the forehead.

‘I'll be ready by then.' She said as she toweled her hair.

It didn't take them too long to get ready and once they reached the main foyer, they met up with the rest of the party who were ready to go.

The drive to Lambton wasn't as long as Lizzy remembered it to be when coming into Pemberley. They pulled into the parking lot of ‘The Lantern' and all sat down to their reserved table.

After Robert chose the wine and everyone's glasses were filled, Robert raised his glass.

‘I'd like to make a toast to our host and hostess.'

Will and Georgie smiled while Robert spoke on.

‘I just want to thank you on behalf of Marianne and myself for doing this for us. You have made Marianne extremely happy as well as me in helping us with the wedding plans. Even though this dinner is hardly enough to repay your kindness, we do from the bottom of our hearts truly thank you. As well to you Georgie, I want to say that we are very glad you are here with us tonight and we also want to say congratulations on making it through your third year. To Will and Georgie!'

‘Thank you Robert.' Will said as he finished he set his drink down.

‘So, one more year left. I bet you're excited.' Marianne said to Georgie.

‘Oh yes I am. Although I'm not sure where I'll be after that.'

‘Do you have plans?' Lizzy asked.

Georgie bit her lip for a moment and then shrugged.

‘I'm really not sure. I was thinking of taking some time off to come over to the States and see Will, but I'll see. Depends if I get any offers. So when are you planning on going back?'

Will spoke up.

‘We leave Saturday morning. I want everyone to have a good rest before going back to work Monday.'

‘Do you like it here so far?' Georgie asked everyone.

‘I love it! I don't want leave so soon.' Marianne cried.

‘Oh I'm so glad. I enjoy visiting the States, but I have to say I love Pemberley the most when it comes favorite places to be. Do you like it here Lizzy?'

Before she answered, she noticed Will's attention snap to her and wait for her answer.

‘Hmm very much so yes. I can't believe there's any place more beautiful than Pemberley. You are quite lucky to have such a haven from the real world. I have to agree with Marianne that I don't want to leave so soon either.'

‘But you're coming back.'

‘True but that's for the wedding. It seems so far away now.' She sighed.

‘Oh Lizzy, it's something to look forward to though you know.' Marianne chimed in.

‘She's right you know,' Robert said, ‘It's not like it's a year away or anything.'

‘Oh I know, but it's so peaceful here and I love this town nestled here. It's so tranquil.' Lizzy replied before sipping her wine.

‘Well how about you come for the summer?' Georgie asked her with a smile.

Lizzy looked at her surprised.

‘The whole summer?' she asked incredulously.

Georgie shrugged.

‘If you can that is. I'm sure you wouldn't mind would you Will? Besides, our cousin Richard will be coming for the summer in a matter of weeks. You two could come too if you'd like. You're all invited anytime you please to visit us.' She said brightly.

Will smiled and leaned forward on the table.

‘I'm sure you mean well my love but unfortunately, we all don't have summers free like you.'

‘Well wait a minute. I have a summer free. I'm a music teacher!' Marianne said playfully.

‘I know that, but what about Robert and Lizzy. Do you two think you could come for the summer? I'd be happy to supply anything you need.'

Robert smiled and laid back in his chair.

‘I'd love to come again you know that. But it's not like it used to be when we were younger. I have meetings set up this summer and a convention.'

‘Lizzy?'

Deep in thought, she shook her head when she heard her name.

‘I have work. I mean, I would love to come here again, but I would have to basically quit my job to stay the whole summer.'

Georgie smiled and grabbed her hand.

‘You're welcome anytime. But if you can't come here, I'll come there. I'm sure Will wants to stay in Virginia this summer.' She said giving her brother a sly glance.

Lizzy blushed.

‘I'd love to have you over and meet my sister. She's enâ€"‘

‘She's endearing and very much a wonderful person. She's with Charles you know.' Will said stopping Lizzy from saying what she knew she shouldn't say.

‘I know that. Lizzy told me before silly. I can't wait to meet her.' Georgie replied with a smile.

Will took Lizzy's hand and squeezed it and Lizzy leaned into his ear.

‘I almost spilled it!'

Will nodded and then turned to her ear.

‘Ahh but I was your knight and saved you.'

Lizzy nodded and felt her hand tugged as Will drew closer again to her ear.

‘Does that not deserve a reward?'

Lizzy smiled and moved towards his ear.

‘Perhaps. I'll have to think on it, Sir William. Something very... special.' She said attractively.

Will slowly moved back and looked at Lizzy who wore a blazing smile and arched her eyebrow at him.

‘Indeed you will my love. Indeed you will.'

The moonlight shone on Will and Lizzy late in the night. Both lay there, intertwined and embracing each other. Lizzy had fallen asleep long before Will could even think about sleep. Instead he stayed by her side and watched her close her heavy lidded eyes and fall into a deep sleep. Watching her sleep allowed him to be near her and think in deep thought about her, about him, and about their relationship.

Lightly caressing her soft skin and gazing at her steady rhythm of sleep, Will found himself smiling. Here he was, lying in his parents' bed, and with the woman he desperately loved. There was no doubt; no doubt in his mind how much he cared for her or loved her.

Although they knew each other, really knew each other a short time, he felt it was forever. He felt free around her. He felt complete. He felt that Lizzy loved him for who he was and not for what he was through his success. He was only a man and she saw that. She understood that and it made him feel whole... safe... himself.

Will lightly kissed Lizzy's bare shoulder and brushed his fingers on her hair.

She was so beautiful to him. So unique.

They had been here only a day and a half and already Will was feeling at home more and more with her here. In his home, in his parent's room, in this bed, she belonged here. She definitely belonged here. With him.

Will stroked her arm and then the nape of her neck all the while feeling content and at ease.

He never had this with any woman. He had never invited any woman to Pemberley. Only her.

He was happy to see her enjoy her time here. He had to admit he was worried about her while in Virginia. She was stressed out with work, school and helping Jane. He knew how much she admired and loved her sister, but he also knew how tired she was from all the stress that was built up inside her. Even without her saying anything or showing any hint of it, he knew that she was also concerned, if not stressed, with their relationship. It had been a hard four months, but it was completely worth every day.

The time they spent apart could have pulled them apart, but he knew how much she meant to him and how much he meant to her. He never wanted to destroy that. He was worried for a while that Caroline would try to spoil what they were growing together and with the misunderstanding they had just a few weeks ago, but after letting everything out, he understood what Lizzy was feeling and how she felt about him. He vowed to himself that he would never let anyone or anything keep them apart.

Running through his mind, the memories of his parents' love, the memories he had of his friends' happiness, was nothing compared to the love he felt for Lizzy. She made him happy. Right now he was happy just having her in his arms, holding her after a night of desire and concrete passion. He wanted nothing more than to spend the rest of his life with her. No matter where he was, he wanted her by his side.

Realizing this, Will felt it was time to release his true feelings to Lizzy. His honest and heartfelt feelings. He could never have dreamt of feeling so much passion, so much love for one person. He was completely wrong about Caroline and how love might have entered their cold and materialistic relationship. With Lizzy there was nothing cold, nothing materialistic, nothing to doubt, only to grasp onto and hold for as long as he could and even then he would fight past the end.

Lizzy silently stirred in her sleep and moved closer into Will's embrace.

Smiling to himself, he held her tightly and kissed her forehead.

Nights like this were precious to him. Nights like this were his favorite times to think about her and feel her.

He could feel her heartbeat steadily against her chest and then he concentrated on his own. The same beat... the same heart. He knew they were meant for each other. He could feel it with every fiber of his body.

Slowly he felt his eyelids try to close. He let sleep overcome him, she was in his arms and sleep with her so close was easy and comforting. He fell asleep with a smile on his face, knowing that she would be right where she was when he woke up.

Lizzy awoke in Will's tight embrace and peeked at him. He was still asleep. Oh how handsome he looked. How peaceful and happy. She noticed a slight smile on his face and immediately melted at his sight.

Savoring the moment of being here, in his arms and in this room, Lizzy's lips upturned. She was happy. Happy to be here in England and at Pemberley, happy to be with her best friend and Robert, happy to have met Georgie and have a day planned for them to get to know even more about each other. But to top it all, the most important thing to her in the world, was being right next to the man she loved.

Yes, it was true, she loved Will more than she ever thought she could. He was everything to her. She couldn't think of anyone else she wanted to be with at that moment or at any moment from then on in her life.

She was so afraid things wouldn't work out with Will while he had traveled to London so many times. She feared for his life when he was in the hospital. She even feared that when Eliot was dead and they were at his funeral, that he would not want anything to do with her. But she was completely wrong. He loved her. He stayed by her and supported her throughout everything. She had been insecure at times regarding Caroline, but soon washed those fears away when she learned the truth regarding their relationship.

Now she was content and secure with where they stood. She felt as though she had known Will all her life, yet she still had more to learn. His facial expressions, his likes and dislikes, more about his family. But to Lizzy she was willing to take the time necessary to learn, even if that meant her whole life. She wanted to give Will her whole heart. She never gave Eliot her whole heart and even then Lizzy doubted she even let him touch it. Now she was ready to give herself completely to Will.

Lizzy fixed her eyes on him as he lay next to her sleeping. God he's handsome. So confident, so masculine, so real and here he was lying next to her with his arms wrapped around her with a smile on his beautiful face. Lizzy smiled in return. She did not want the day to begin. Instead she wanted to lie in his arms forever and never get up.

She wanted to be with him. Forever.

‘Forever' she hardly whispered.

Later that afternoon, while everyone decided to take a nap, Lizzy chose to run around the park. At first Will was apprehensive only because she didn't know her way around and being that the grounds were quite extensive, he wanted her to stay close. After a rather warm discussion about her safety, Lizzy agreed to stick to the trails and be back in a couple hours. Taking a deep breath and pressing play on her iPod, Lizzy took a quick step and broke into a steady jog.

It felt good to have the crisp May air in her lungs. She felt at peace jogging through the park. The landscape was magnificent. She felt refreshed being outside with no cars around, no buildings or people. It was just her and the open park.

‘I could get used to this.' Lizzy thought as she turned onto a new trail to explore.

As she ran up the trail she saw the house from a break in the trees. She slowed into a brisk walk through the trees to a clearing which overlooked the manicured lawn rolling up to the river and up to the house gravel drive.

‘Beautiful!' She exclaimed as she paused in her walk to take in its grand beauty.

She smiled and shook her head.

‘I can't believe I'm even here.' She thought. ‘I'm very lucky. I feel as though I could be here for the rest of my life.'

After admiring the view a while longer, she returned to her run and back to the house taking a slightly different route than before and making it to the gravel drive.

She went through the back door to the main foyer all the while keeping an eye out for anyone she knew. Finding no one, she decided to go back up the master suite to see if Will was still asleep.

Slipping through the main door and quietly tiptoeing to the bed, she found Will asleep. After using the bathroom and washing her face, she nestled herself next to Will watching him sleep.

As if knowing she was looking at him, Will slowly took his arm and wrapped it around her waist hearing her giggle at his gesture.

‘I thought you were asleep.' Lizzy said through her soft giggles.

‘I was but then you weren't here so I couldn't sleep effectively.' He said without opening his eyes.

He moved his head to her shoulder and snuggled closer.

‘Hmm... ' He moaned.

‘Tired?' Lizzy asked.

After a moment Will responded.

‘Lay with me?'

Lizzy slipped into his arms and lay down upon the bed.

‘Gladly.' She said and moved closer into his arms.

‘I love you Elizabeth.'

She blushed and moved her forehead to his.

Looking at him with his eyes closed, Lizzy blushed.

‘I love you William, very very much.'

On hearing those words that touched his heart so tenderly, Will hugged her and snuggled his face into her neck, closing his eyes to sleep by her side. Lizzy felt tired, but not completely sleepy. She closed her eyes thinking about her time there so far and smiled at the memories she was able to keep since her arrival. Suddenly it struck her that she was rested. She remembered feeling so exhausted before coming to England and after arriving and being at Will and Georgie's home, she honestly felt rested.

Smiling at the thought of being so happy right in Will's arms, Lizzy fell asleep alongside Will who was already in a happy dreamland.

Mrs. Berth outdid herself yet again with the fish Lizzy caught the day before, leaving everyone full of food and compliments to such a wonderful chef.

‘I wonder where she learned to cook like this.' Marianne said as she rubbed her stomach.

‘She didn't go to any formal school. Our grandfather employed her grandmother who was his friend from childhood and he always loved her cooking. From there, her daughter, Glora's mother, was the assistant chef until her mother died. Then Gloria became her mother's assistant. After Gloria married her childhood friend, Cogsley Berth, her mother retired into the country to live with her sister-in-law. She then became the head chef of Pemberley. So she was taught the fine skills of cooking by her mother and grandmother and incorporates her teachers in every meal... And yes, her daughters help her out when they can and I wouldn't be surprised if one of them was to take her place one day.'

Lizzy was quite thankful for such treats when eating a meal at Pemberley. She never knew trout could be so good.

After dinner, the five of them retreated to the veranda over the river to have an after dinner drink and some dessert.

‘What are your plans for tomorrow Georgie?' Will asked as he laid back in his chair next to Lizzy.

She sighed before responding.

‘Well I'm taking Lizzy out sailing. She told me how much she likes the sport so that's what I had planned. You have work to do anyways, what with the estate and all.'

Will frowned at not being able to spend a whole day with Lizzy. He glanced her way finding her not in the least despaired.

‘And what have you two planned?' Will looked at Robert and Marianne who seemed to have been sharing a private joke.

‘Oh well we were going to visit Lambton again. I wanted to visit the shops and take some photos.' Marianne said with a bright smile.

This made him even more grumpy.

He didn't plan on spending the day working inside with his steward and the estate finances.

He then felt a small warm touch and looked down to find Lizzy's hand covering his own.

‘You'll be just fine, Sweetie. Besides this is good quality time for Georgie and me. Wouldn't you like that?'

Looking at him with such tender devotion, Lizzy smiled and her eyes glowed. Will felt his heart melt and silently nodded.

‘Good! Then I'm going to bed. Be sure to meet me in the dining room around nine Lizzy. We want to get a fresh start. Good night everyone.' Georgie called out on the veranda as she departed their company.

‘Well I suppose we'll go upstairs too. We want to be on the road by eight. Have a good night you two.' Robert said as he guided Marianne into the house.

‘Looks like it's just you and me.' Lizzy said with a happy tone.

Will stared out into the dark blue night while Lizzy laid back in her chair sipping on her amaretto sour.

‘Hmm?' Will turned to see what she had said.

Lizzy's eyes gazed at him and then she gave him a blank stare.

‘What?'

‘Did you say something?'

Lizzy's eyes darted back and forth and then she answered in the negative.

‘What's with you Will? Are you okay?'

Will rubbed his eyes.

‘Yes I'm fine. Would you like to go upstairs?'

‘No I'm fine here I love it here at night. It's so peaceful and serene. How can you ever leave this place?'

Will softly laughed.

‘Unfortunately, I have companies to run, so they do require me to leave, but I understand what you're saying. It can be hard to leave home for me. I dare say it is hard every time I have to leave this place.'

‘Hmm, then I am sorry we must go away again. Seems so right here you know?'

Instead of responding, Will ventured a look into her eyes. He fixed his eyes on hers and wouldn't let go. He was searching, searching for something. They were so vibrant, so green, so vivid. She was so relaxed, yet so alive sitting right next to him and casually drinking.

‘Will? Are you sure something's not wrong?'

Will smiled and looked down.

‘I'm sure Lizzy. I'm sorry, I guess I'm preoccupied with something that I've been thinking about lately.'

‘Can you tell me what it is?' Lizzy ventured.

Will thought a moment but then declined.

‘Well you know you can talk to me... about anything right?' Lizzy said looking worried.

Will grabbed her hand and helped her up. His arms took hold of her and he pulled her in for a tender kiss.

Looking into her eyes again, he smiled and held her hands up to their faces.

‘I will tell you anything you want to know, but this. You will know in time my love. Trust me. It's nothing to fear. Just something to look forward to.'

Looking at him suspiciously, Lizzy let Will take her hands, gently kiss them and return to holding them in his own.

‘Hmm... okay. I trust you.'

‘Good. Now would you like to go for a walk or would you like to go to our room?' Will said with a sly smile.

‘You, Mr. Darcy, are too much!' She answered smiling and with her hands taking the lead, she walked towards the entrance of the house.

‘Maybe I should go for a walk and you to bed!' She said as they stopped at the entrance.

Will shook his head.

‘No no no... my dear madam. I must escort you wherever you may lead. I won't have it any other way.'

Lizzy looked around the grounds that peaceful hummed of nature and night.

‘Let's go for a walk. I'm not tired just yet and it's a beautiful evening.'

Will nodded and held out his arm. Upon taking it, Will and Lizzy went down the limestone stairs and onto the lawn. A full moon guiding their way and the stars watching from the heavens, Lizzy and Will were quite content walking the grounds.

‘It's so heavenly out here Will. I could sleep out here.'

‘It is lovely isn't it? My sister and I would sleep out here in tents when we were young. Along with Richard and Charles. It was fantastic to be able to set up camp along the lake or the river. Pretty much anywhere you go on the grounds is a good camping spot.'

‘Sounds like fun. I'm sure you would want to do that again.'

‘Oh yes. I always wished to be able to do that with my children and someday I will.'

He looked down at Lizzy who was gazing at the landscape in front of her. She heard every word he said and when she looked up at him, she could see the seriousness in his eyes.

‘I'm sure you will. You'll be a wonderful father Will.'

‘And you will be a wonderful mother, Elizabeth.'

Fiercely blushing, Lizzy smiled and looked away.

‘And how many children would you think me to have?' she asked with courage.

Will smiled.

‘As many as you like. But for you in my opinion, I'm sure you would want at least four.'

‘Four!' She cried out.

‘Yes. I'd like four.'

‘You want four kids?' she looked at him playfully with her hands on her waist.

Will didn't answer. He thought her rather cute standing there in her blue baby t-shirt and white skirt with flip flops looking so casual and so adorable. Her height was quite different from his. His tall six foot frame and her short, albeit, adorable height of five foot three inches standing right in front of him.

He tried to press his lips together to hide his smile but it wasn't working as well as he had imagined.

‘You think four, but I know you only mean two. Maybe.' She answered for him.

‘No I really think four. The more the merrier, I believe. Pemberley would be a wonderful place to raise them too.' He said looking around the land and back at the house which stood behind them.

Lizzy smiled at the thought and let her arms go.

‘You would really want to raise our children here? In England? At Pemberley?'

‘And you would not?'

Lizzy bit her lip.

‘I didn't say that. I was asking your opinion.'

When he didn't say anything, she continued.

‘I would love to live and raise our children here. I just think that maybe it would be too far away from friends and family. What about where we are now? What about Jane and Charles? I would miss them.'

Will's smile grew at the thought of a family living here at his home. He knew they wouldn't live there throughout the whole year, but he would live here during the summers.

‘Lizzy I would not have us living here throughout the whole year. I would want to do what I have done since I was a child. Visit Pemberley in the summers and live in Virginia during the other months. Would that not be wonderful?'

Lizzy smiled as he gently grabbed for her hand and held it in his own, caressing it with his thumbs.

‘I would like that Will. I would be very happy.'

Will pulled her closer and kissed her passionately. When he pulled away he looked deeply into her eyes and grinned.

‘Lizzy I want your happiness and love more than anything in this world or the next. They mean more to me than my own happiness.'

Lizzy beamed at his words.

‘You make me very happy Will. I never thought I could be this happy in all my life. I would never want to let go of what we have. Never. Being here has shown me a part of you that I have never seen. You are so relaxed here and so happy. As much as you want my love and happiness, I'm also in the very exact spot with how I feel about you.'

At hearing this Will beamed and moved closer to her to encircle her.

Laughing at his response of her feelings, Lizzy allowed Will to twirl her around and then set her down, properly sealing it with a kiss.

‘Nothing could make me happier at this moment. Shall we keep walking? I'm enjoying the night air.' Lizzy said when she caught her breath from the kiss.

Will nodded at her and took her hand, tugging it ever so slightly to walk beside him.

As they walked along the river they heard the soft babbling of the river, the cool breeze whispered in their ears and softly touched arms, the moonlight guided them along the river to the bridge that connected them to the other side of the river. As they walked across the stone bridge, Will stopped and leaned against it.

‘I love this bridge. It fits in with the whole picture of what I believe Pemberley to be.'

‘Hmm it is lovely.' Lizzy mused.

‘Not as lovely as you are Elizabeth.' Will said his voice deep with feeling.

Lizzy took his hand and smiled as she brushed her fingers across his own.

‘You know, I honestly believe that Pemberley has healed me.'

Will's face showed worry and Lizzy quickly recovered her meaning.

‘What I mean is that, well, I've been through many things these past few months and so much of that has been shared by you. Through all the good times and down times, if I would have been told that I was going to go through what I have these past few months, I would never have believed the support and love, the friendship and understanding I have received from you. Will... Will you have been there for me since the beginning and I think I have taken some of that for granted since I have been so overwhelmed with Jane and Charles' wedding plans and Marianne and Robert's wedding plans. Even with the situation of Eliot and the finances, work, and school. It's been so hectic. But with you there right besides me, it's been easier and comforting.'

‘Lizzy are you upset that they are getting married?' Will said bluntly trying to understand what was running through her head.

Lizzy sighed as she tried to figure it all out.

‘No I'm not upset, I'm not jealous, I'm just... I'm just hopeful.'

‘Hopeful?'

Lizzy let go of his hand and turned around leaning on her elbows against the bridge.

‘Yes. I'm hopeful that perhaps someday you and I can share that sort of happiness. I know we've talked about it and I know that we agreed to take our time and get to know each other. That means so much to me.' She said laying a hand on her chest.

‘I just wish that I could go through it too. Don't get me wrong, I'm very happy with you and how we are developing, I just,' she sighed and looked out at the stars,' I want to marry you Will.'

Will, still leaning against the stone bridge and studying Lizzy's profile and features all the while listening to her speak and explain, was stunned when he heard her utter those words. They had talked about marriage several times and how they wanted to take their relationship to next levels, but to be so frank about wanting to marry, that was surprising to him. He was usually the one exclaiming his passion of marriage to Lizzy while hearing Lizzy giggle and playfully push the subject away. Now she was truly being honest and saying that she wanted to marry him.

‘Will?' Please say something.'

Will tried to smile but he couldn't. Instead he was debating on whether to propose right then and there or wait. He finally decided to wait. Knowing that he wanted to make it special and to have her surprised.

‘Lizzy listen to me. I want to marry you and I want to be with you the rest of my life. Spending time with you is my favorite thing in the world. But you are right. I would marry you this instant in this spot, but I want to respect your wishes. I think you were right though. I know it's hard to see our dearest friends getting married especially with Marianne and Robert getting married here, but my love, I have already thought of you as my significant other. I already hold you in the highest and the most deepest place in my heart. I can't get enough of you, you're my everything, my breath, my light, you will be my wife Lizzy and I will always look forward to that day when we can officially become that. Until then, we have many things to do. Your sister is moving, we have two weddings to take place, and we have a relationship to nurture, love, and grow.'

Lizzy smiled and let out a breath of air. She didn't think of it that way.

‘But Lizzy tell me, how has Pemberley healed you?'

Will studied her as she thought about what she was saying earlier and then continued.

‘This place has healed my soul and rested my body. When I arrived, I was discontent and ill from everything I have been through. No matter how happy I have been for my sister or Marianne, even for Charles and Robert, I have been exhausted from helping with decisions and supporting them. As much as I have been there for them, I know they are there for me. I just felt myself dissipate so slowly. Being here has helped me. From the moment I set eyes on all of this, I have felt well. I have felt complete.' She turned to Will and gazed in his eyes.

‘Will, I feel at home here. I feel as if I belong here. I haven't even seen the whole property or the whole house and I feel at home.'

Will smiled and stood tall taking his hands and lightly touching her arms.

‘You don't know how much... how those words... make me feel. You do belong here Lizzy. You are breathing life into Pemberley as Pemberley is breathing life into you. You make so many people who love you happy. Especially me. Georgie loves you despite the fact you two just met. Whenever we talk, she asks about you and how you are doing, making sure I'm taking care of you. Wondering how well my darling is doing and when she would get to see you.'

With a pause, Will let out a deep breath and grinned.

‘Lizzy you do belong here.'

Lizzy searched his eyes, seeing sparks of his love, his deep love he carried only for her. After a few moments, she looked away and started to walk down the bridge towards the house, Will followed in tow.

‘Lizzy?'

When he heard no response, he lightly took her arm and turned her around to look at her. When he did, he found tears streaming down her face. Silently Lizzy's tears fell down her cheeks and felt herself pulled into his arms.

‘From this moment on, my love you are mine forever, ever since I saw you, you were mine.' Will whispered into her hair, making her cry harder.

‘Why do you cry?' He asked innocently.

Trembling slightly, Lizzy pulled back and sniffed.

‘I cry because my heart hurts. It hurts so much and it feels so good. It beats so hard from what you've told me as if I've never felt it beat before. I'm blessed with you in my life and your love.' Lizzy paused while Will patiently waited for her to continue.

‘Will... I've never felt this way before. My heart... I'm so happy. I don't think I can actually believe it. I'm just... I'm so overwhelmed with this love-it feels so good!' She cried out letting a giggle escape her lips and let a few more tears spill until it all came out. She couldn't hide it any longer. She couldn't hold onto it anymore. Sobbing softly and into Will's shirt, Lizzy let go of everything pressing on her for so long.

‘Shh... Lizzy, my love, believe it. I'm not going anywhere and what you feel is absolutely real. Oh my darling, cry... let it all out. Your heart is finally feeling what it should be, what it was meant to feel.' Pushing her back to look into her wet green eyes, Will smiled and tilted her head up towards his.

‘Elizabeth what you're feeling is true love. My true love for you. Let it all go my darling Lizzy.'

Lifting his hand to brush her wisps of hair from her face and her tears from her tear stained face, Will let his smile show more and then lightly kissed her forehead.

‘I cannot tell you enough how much I love you. From this moment on I will show you every day how much you mean to me, how much I love, adore you and how you make me feel so happy.'

Smirking from hearing such sweet words, Lizzy gently nodded and enclosed her arms around his neck.

Letting out a giggle, she pulled him towards her for a hug and receiving his warm embrace made her smile even more.

‘William, I can't say it enough how much I love you.'

‘Say it as often as you like my love because I love you too.'

Lizzy awoke early to get ready for her day with Georgie. She was quite excited to be spending a day with just her. Leaving Will asleep with a few kisses goodbye, Lizzy left their room and went downstairs. Finding Georgie eating a hearty breakfast, Lizzy happily joined her and sat down.

'I haven't been sailing in a while so I'm excited to get out there and see what the lake is going to be like.' Georgie said joyfully.

'Well, you have me there. I am excited though.'

Georgie smiled and finished her plate of food while Lizzy ate.

'I'm going to go and grab the picnic basket Gloria made for us.'

As Lizzy nodded, not being able to respond with food in her mouth, Georgie smiled and practically skipped towards the door leading to the kitchen. She was quite content with finishing her meal and when she finished, Georgie returned with a large basket and a cooler.

'Ready?' Georgie asked with delight.

Lizzy stood up.

'All set.'

'Good, oh! Do you have a light sweater or jacket? If not I can lend you one.'

Lizzy held up a light weight sweater she carried down with her. Georgie smiled and nodded and then after a quick checklist, they were off.

'We're going to drive down to the lake and meet up with Matt. He takes care of the sailboat and canoes, all that kind of stuff.'

'You have canoes too?'

'Yeah, we have all kinds of equipment. Jet skis, water skis, our sailboat, four canoes, and some of our fishing rods and tackle are kept there too. Just so we don't have to bring them back and forth if we want to fish in the other rivers and lakes.'

'You have more than one lake and river?' Lizzy asked incredulously.

Georgie nodded.

'Only three lakes, but the one we are going to is the largest of the three. The other two are pretty much ponds to be honest. And then there are two rivers. There is the one in front of the house and one that borders the property and the peaks. It's pretty neat, but we don't go out to that one to do anything.'

Lizzy was amazed still as they climbed into Georgie's Range Rover.

'Okay, everything's packed and we're set, so let's go!'

The drive to the lake was picturesque. Lizzy enjoyed the scenery on the way there. It took them a good fifteen minutes until they reached the lake.

Lizzy was speechless when they came into sight of the lake.

Sparkling and glistening, the lake was a true blue-green and with the sun shining down on the water, it was beautiful. Trees lined the lake except for the landing next to the large shed which held everything needed to enjoy the lake. There was even a small boat house with a deck which according to Georgie, they would use to entertain.

'We sometimes have a few parties out here with our close friends or just the three or two of us. This one time, we had a small get together with Charles, Richard, Will, a few of my friends from school and of course me and we spent the whole time on the water and at night, we had a cookout. Gloria insisted she come and cook for us, but Will made sure he did the barbeque. He's actually very skilled at cooking.'

Lizzy laughed, keeping inside the twinge of jealousy she felt for not being able to share that with him, and said. 'He always cooks for me. I'm not a cook by any means. I can bake, but cooking anything, that's a tough skill for me to acquire.'

Georgie laughed.

'I'm sure you could do it. Will should give you some cooking lessons. Whenever I visit Virginia he cooks every meal. He won't hire anyone, which makes sense not to. He loves doing domestic things. He even does his own laundry. I know it's silly and I'm not trying to sound stuck up! (Lizzy shook her head with a smile.) But he really loves doing those things. Now me, I do what I need to keep up, but with schoolwork and hanging out with friends, it can be tricky. Maybe I'm just lazy regarding chores. Will usually does everything for me. Always has.'

'He's a wonderful brother isn't he?'

'Oh yes. Very much so.'

Lizzy enjoyed hearing stories of Will from Georgie and was hoping to hear more throughout the day.

They exited the car and went to the shed finding an older well humored man waiting for their arrival.

'Hello Matt. This is Lizzy, Lizzy this is Matt.'

'Morning.' Matt said as he approached them.

'Hi.' Lizzy replied good naturedly.

'You two ready to go?' He asked handing Georgie the keys to the boat.

'Oh yes. I've been wanting to get out here for a long time. Everything ready?' Georgie asked as she started to walk with Lizzy to the pier.

'She's all yours Georgie. Have fun!' He called out and waved turning back and heading into the shed.

The girls went aboard and after setting everything into place, Georgie started up the engine and steered them out of dock.

The wind was tolerable and warm. The weather was to be warm and sunny all day long, so they were happy to expect a good ride on the lake.

'Have you named her?' Lizzy asked Georgie who steered the boat around the perimeter of the lake.

Georgie giggled before answering.

Yes, Will and I named her Patient Whisper. We got this boat a few years ago and basically took her out for a spin and from such a smooth ride and with our temperaments at the time Will said he was patient and I said I was a whisper. The reason we got the boat was due to an incident that happened to me. I loved coming here and whenever I was down or out of spirits, I would come here. Will would too and it just seemed to fit when we came up with the name. I love the name, it means a lot to me, to both of us. Anyways, before Patient Whisper, we had an older boat we had to get rid of due to mechanical problems, it was my parents' boat. She was named Rising Sun. She was a nice boat too.'

Lizzy listened intently and caught the mentioning of an incident. Without further questioning, she continued to listen to her.

'So, tell me, how has life been for you since we last talked?'

Lizzy swallowed and smiled.

'It's been hectic but good. Jane and Charles are engaged and I've been helping them with their wedding plans.'

Georgie lit up upon hearing this.

'Charles is engaged to your sister!! That's wonderful! Oh I'm so happy for them both. When's the wedding?'

'End of the year. You'll be getting an invitation. However, no one else knows about this, not even Marianne and Robert, so if you don't mind…'

Georgie shook her head.

'My lips are sealed.' She said while motioning her mouth to be quiet.

'Will and you are doing well too?'

Lizzy nodded with a bright smile.

'Yeah we are. We are quite happy.'

Georgie grinned and then began.

'Good. I can't tell you how happy I am that you two are together. I could not stand Caroline. She was too needy and materialistic for Will. I don't know why he even chose her. I mean I do but I don't. He is always quiet about her. She's horrible to him and pretty much anyone she knows. Suck up.'

Lizzy laughed at her candidness.

'Yeah she can be a bit much. She still has plans for him I think.'

'Oh she always will. Always has and always will. Will can hold his own though. He just needed to stand up to her. With you, however, he is extremely happy. I can tell every time you two are together when I talk with him. If I see Caroline when I next visit, I'm going to have a word with her.'

'Oh I don't think you need to do that. I mean she can be a bit much, well wait, she is too much, but you wouldn't need to say anything to her.' Lizzy said casually.

Georgie shook her head.

'No really. I do. She's been bossy since I've known her and that's been my whole life practically. She's horrible. I cannot stand the sight of her.'

Lizzy laughed.

'Be lucky that you don't have to see her everyday.'

'That's right! You work with her. I remember how you told me when you first met her she was acting like she owned the place. Stupid girl.'

'Yeah it's true. She had demands up to here.' Lizzy said with her hand held so high.

Georgie let out a sigh.

'Doesn't surprise me. Anyways, do you like it out here?'

Lizzy excitedly nodded.

'Want to take the wheel for a while?'

Lizzy confidently took the wheel and continued around the lake.

They enjoyed the day sailing around and talking about everything under the sun. When it came time to eat lunch, they laughed at the large amount of food and drink available to them.

'This is typical of Gloria. She loves to feed us and I love eating her food. It's so delicious.'

'Mmm yes it is.' Lizzy said biting into her cold pasta salad.

After a bite to eat, the girls took the boat around a few more times and then headed to the dock.

'That was fun! I'd love to do this again with you.' Georgie said as they packed up her car.

'I would love that too.' Lizzy replied while entering the car.

'Well let's not wait too long. Pemberley is wonderful in the summer. So you should come out again.'

Lizzy nodded happily as Georgie pulled from the drive and headed towards the house.

Will was not having a good day. He was stuck inside on a beautiful sunny day working. He missed Lizzy and his sister. He wanted to be with them having fun. Trying to concentrate again and again, Will finally got through the work he needed to do and huffed.

'I should not be doing this.' He said to himself quietly.

It was a bit after three and he was ready to pull his hair out. Instead, he made a call to Charles.

'Hello?'

'Charles, it's Will.'

'Will! How are you? How's everyone at Pemberley?'

'We're fine. I'm stuck in the office today though. Just finished some work.'

'Work? I hope it's not for the companies.' Charles said.

'No no, Pemberley matters. How is everything there?'

'Oh fine, fine. I have a meeting here in a minute. Jane and I got some things done for the wedding last night. When you get back, we're announcing our engagement at a party I'm holding at my place. You're coming, right?'

'Charles that's a stupid question to ask me. Of course I'm coming. Lizzy will come with me. By the way, I wanted to talk to you. Jane's going to moving with you in a few weeks right?'

'Yeah she is.'

'Well Caroline needs a place to live, right?'

'Oh you're not honestly thinking of setting Lizzy and Caroline together are you?' Charles asked.

'No no, I was thinking about asking Lizzy to move in with me. Caroline could then take over the apartment and you would have your place to yourself and I'll have Lizzy.' Will smiled at his idea waiting for Charles to answer.

'Hey that's a good idea. That might work. Hold on. I'll ring Jane real quick. She won't mind the intrusion.' Charles said with a smile.

While Charles called Jane regarding the idea, Will found himself writing Lizzy's last name as his. Shaking his head at his high school boy antics, Will heard Charles come back on the line.

'Jane said that's a perfect idea. She's been worried about Lizzy having a roommate so this works. Have you talked to Lizzy yet?'

'No I haven't. I just came up with it. I'll talk to her later though. You're going to have to talk with Caroline though. She won't like the idea.'

'Yeah I know, but tough. I've wanted her out for a while now. She's been driving me crazy talking about you and how she can't stand Lizzy. Quite frankly, it's about time she moved out and lived on her own. I love her, but I don't like her right now. She's trying my nerves.' Charles laughed.

'You okay?' Will asked.

'Yeah yeah, I was just thinking that Jane would of smacked me right now for mocking her mom a bit if she heard me say that. She's always complaining about her nerves. We have a dinner engagement with them tonight. Oh fun.' Charles laughed again.

Will laughed, but felt a pang from missing Lizzy and their banter.

'Well I'm going to go now. I'm going to go find my girlfriend. Tell Jane I say hello and I'll see you this weekend.'

'Sounds good Will. Tell everyone we say hello! Bye.'

'Bye Charles.'

Will hung up and laid back in his chair. He was glad he was done with his work, but his mind wasn't on that. It was on Lizzy living with him. How wonderful that would be! How simple the solution. Now, how to tell her. Hmm…that wasn't going to be hard, but it wasn't going to be easy. Naturally he thought about her refusing him at first since she liked being independent and doing things her own way. He also admired that she wouldn't want to be in his way. He could just hear her saying she would be a burden. But as stubborn as she could be, he could be just as determined. The thought of Lizzy living with him, waking up next to him every morning, falling asleep with her next to him every night, having meals with her daily, doing chores together and just spending quality time with her, the mere thought was special to him. The idea of living with Lizzy was perfect in his mind. Surely she couldn't refuse him. She never denied him anything. Nothing that he had asked from her did she deny him.

It was settled in his mind that asking Lizzy to move in was the natural and just answer.

The girls returned before dinner and were hungry for it. After Georgie pulled into the drive and parked, she and Lizzy got out and unpacked the car, bringing their things inside and finding no one to welcome them. Thinking nothing of it, Georgie went to the kitchen to drop off the picnic basket while Lizzy went upstairs. She had missed Will while being out, but was more than happy to spend her time away from him with his sister.

She was delighted with their day. It was simply perfect. She wanted nothing more than to be able to spend more time with Georgie again someday soon. Her company was relaxed and easygoing. She found Georgie to be better than she expected and even that was of an angelic persona.

As Lizzy was walking the corridor to the suite, Georgie caught up with her.

'Hey you.' Lizzy said as Georgie came to her side.

'Hello, I was thinking on my way up that you and I should watch a movie later with Marianne. Let the boys have some time to themselves. Are you up for it?'

Lizzy nodded eagerly not wanting their time together to end.

'Good. Then after dinner, we'll go up to the TV room. I'm sure Will showed you that room, right?'

'Actually not. I didn't think…'

Georgie waved her silent.

'Oh don't worry. Pemberley is grand and all don't get me wrong, but we've updated the place throughout the years. As much history as the house has, it also has the future installed. I'll see you in a bit.'

'Bye Georgie!' Lizzy said as she kept walking, passing Georgie's room.

When she entered their suite, Will was not to be found. She was puzzled as looked around casually as well as getting ready for dinner. A quick shower and after getting dressed, Will still had not entered. Finally, after waiting 15 minutes for him, she headed downstairs.

When she entered the parlor, Lizzy found Marianne and Georgie chatting away.

'Hey, everything's set for tonight. Robert and Will just stepped into Will's office for a few minutes.'

'Oh good, I'm glad to hear it. They're joining us for dinner right?'

Marianne giggled.

'Yes they are. How was your day?'

Lizzy and Georgie relayed their day and turned around to ask Marianne about hers.

'Oh it was fun! We went into town, did some shopping, I got gifts for everyone back home, and then had lunch at a local deli. After that, we took some photos and did a bit more shopping, drove around the countryside a bit and then came back. It was very nice.'

'Hmm seems like it. I can't wait to see your photos.' Lizzy said.

'Oh yes! Could you send them to me?' Georgie asked.

'Sure. I'll email them to you.' Marianne said. Before they could continue on, the men joined them.

Will went straight to Lizzy, giving her a kiss and a small hug.

'How was your day?' Will asked.

'Great! Georgie and I had a splendid day. How about you?'

Will frowned.

'I got my work done, but I wasn't happy about having to do it. But I am glad to hear you had a good time on the lake. It is huge isn't it?' Will asked playfully.

Lizzy laughed and nodded.

'Yes it is. I loved it. I also love your sailboat. Very nice. I especially love her name. Patient Whisper. Very suitable.'

Will looked confused but then understood and chuckled.

'Yes well it does fit for the reason she was purchased. Are you hungry?'

'A bit, yes. You?'

'Hmm…yes, but not for food.' He whispered in her ear.

Blushing, Lizzy playfully slapped his arm and smiled.

'Maybe we can have a late night snack, but for right now, Gloria's food will do.' Lizzy said with a grin.

After dinner, the girls retreated to a huge TV room loaded with everything imaginable and much bigger than Charles' or Will's in Virginia, with popcorn and pop in hand.

'Oh! And Gloria did have an extra large bag of M&Ms for you in the pantry, Lizzy.' Georgie said as she handed her the bag.

'Oh my goodness! You remembered?' she asked surprised as she gratefully took the bag.

'Of course I did! I have never forgotten anything you've told me. I made sure we were set for this.'

The girls laughed and Georgie turned on the movie.

Meanwhile, the men were trying to get cozy on the veranda having a drink and making conversation. Robert was comfortable enough, it was Will who was trying to make himself comfortable. He missed Lizzy. She was close but not near enough for him.

'Will, it's only a couple of hours.' Robert said reading his thoughts.

'Hmm? Oh yes, yes I know. I just miss her.'

Robert chuckled and after a few moments silence, he began.

'I remember a time when Marianne told me she was going to stay with Lizzy and Jane along with Elinor for a night. We had been living together for just a couple weeks at this point and I wanted to spend all my time with her. While she was gone, I thought I wouldn't make it and I laughed at myself for being so silly because I knew I would be spending the rest of my life with her. Here I was, in our living room, all by myself feeling sorry for myself while Marianne was out having a good time with her sister and best friends. What I was amazed to realize is that I couldn't remember my life before her. I only wanted my life to be with her. After that I knew I wanted to marry her and be with her forever.'

Will took in what Robert said.

'Oh thanks Robert. So nice to know Richard, Charles and I weren't good enough for you.'

'Oh you know that's not what I meant. Honestly though, it was then I knew she was the one for me. Before that I knew it, but I guess I didn't feel it. I felt it then. From then on, I've been able to be confident enough knowing that no matter what Marianne does throughout the day at work or what she does with her friends and family, she'll always be mine. She will always carry my heart and give her heart to me. I've never felt that safe before, that complete.'

'Marriage doesn't scare you then?' Will asked.

Robert shook his head.

'No, never. She doesn't suffocate me or make me feel as though I'm someone I'm not. She supports me, excites me, and teaches me new things almost daily. I look forward to the moments I spend with her and the time we're apart only makes me want her and appreciate her more. I'm happy we have mutual friends and I'm most definitely happy to be with her. She makes me who I want to be and supports who I am. That's something I could never buy or get from anywhere else.'

Will admired Robert more at that moment than any other time throughout their friendship.

A few minutes passed and after a sip of his drink, Will said his thoughts at that moment.

'I'm going to ask Lizzy to move in with me.'

Robert looked at him not surprised in the least.

'Glad to hear it. When do you plan to ask her?'

'I'm not certain. I still have to figure out how to do it. Perhaps when we get back or before we leave.'

'I'm sure you'll come up with something. Just ask her. I'm sure she would say yes. But what about Jane?'

Will almost froze but without showing Robert he replied.

'I think Lizzy and I are at that level in our relationship to move in. Jane could stay at the apartment or she could very well move in with Charles. They are serious you know.'

'Hmm. Yeah, I figured that.'

A pause filled the air.

'I think it's a great idea Will.'

'I believe it is.' Will said before draining his drink and pouring them both a new one.

Will was in bed when Lizzy came to the room. Not asleep but reading through some of the wedding ideas he had, he greeted her with a wide smile and set his papers down.

'Have a good time?'

'Oh yes. I love your sister. She's so much fun. I hope she comes to Virginia this summer.'

'I'm sure she will. I can't imagine her not, since I'm not planning on being here the whole summer. I may have to return for a few days here and there, but nothing so long as three months.'

'I'm glad to hear it. I love this place so much, but I'm missing Jane and Jack.'

'Oh I'm sure they're okay. You should call Jane tomorrow though. Just to see how things are going.'

'Good idea. I haven't talked with her since we left. What are you working on?'

'Nothing now that you're here. Before that I was just going through some of the wedding plans. Are you tired?'

Lizzy smiled and crawled up on the bed and gave him a warm kiss.

'No.' She stated simply.

'Well then what would you like to do until you are tired.'

Lizzy looked as though she was in deep in thought and smiled coyly.

'I can think of a few things.'

Will gave her a kiss and pulled her closer to him.

'I missed you today. All day.' He said showering her with kisses on her lips and down her neck until reaching her collarbone.

'Mmm…I missed you too.'

'Show me Lizzy.' Will said huskily into her ear.

Gladly, Lizzy obliged.

'No Jane I was just calling to see how things were going.'

'Oh things are fine here. When you get back, Charles and I are throwing a party Thursday night to announce our engagement.'

'Wonderful. I'll be there.'

'You'd better be.'

Lizzy giggled with her sister and then asked about Jack.

'He misses you. He's been lying next to your door all morning. In fact, if he's not there than he's on your chair.'

'Oh my, where is he now?'

'Hmm he's by your door. I think he misses running with you too. I don't run-'

'Because you don't need to.' Lizzy was quick to point out.

'Very funny, but as I was saying, he seems to want to go out longer than just to go out and do his business.'

'Hmm, well I'll be home soon and then he and I will run all he wants.'

'How is it there?'

'Oh Jane…it's wonderful. Absolutely wonderful. I think I could live my whole life at Pemberley.'

Jane giggled and then sighed.

'What about me though?'

'Oh don't be silly. I'm not going to do that. I want to be home. I miss home, but I'm not homesick. I feel at home here too.'

'Hmm…' Jane started, 'Well if things go the way they should, you could live in both worlds.'

Smiling at the thought, Lizzy said, 'Perhaps… Perhaps they will.'

'Well I have to get going, but I'll talk to you more when you get home. Tell everyone hello from us. Love you Lizzy.'

'Love you too Jane. Give my love to Charles.'

'Will do. Bye.'

'Bye.'

Lizzy hung up and sat back for a moment in her chair in Will's study.

She had only a couple days left here and she was already missing Pemberley. Smiling at the thought of living here and in Virginia, she went in search of Will.

Finding him napping on the veranda while Marianne, Robert, and Georgie lounged beside him, Lizzy slipped herself onto Will's lap. Coming to and seeing Lizzy in his arms, Will smiled and enclosed his arms around her and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

'Is Jane okay?'

'Yep. Everything is good. Jack misses me, but other than that everything is still standing and going well. Jane says hello to everyone.'

Receiving the same from them to Jane and Charles, Lizzy accepted and snuggled closer to Will.

'What are the plans for today?' Lizzy asked looking around at everyone.

Receiving shrugs from everyone, she smiled.

'Guess we should just enjoy the day out here then.' She said and laid her head on Will's shoulder.

The rest of the day was enjoyed in just this fashion. Everyone went in and out of a nap, chatting away and having good food and drink, it was another perfect day at Pemberley.

Towards the evening, Will and Lizzy were enjoying their time alone together on the veranda as everyone else decided to go in and get ready for dinner.

Will sighed and turned his head to Lizzy, who now occupied her own chair, and squeezed her hand that was enclosed in his own.

'I have something I want to ask you, discuss with you.'

Lizzy turned to look at him and raised her eyebrows.

'What is it?'

Will sat up a bit and exhaled.

'I was thinking yesterday about the situation you're going to be facing when you return. Jane will be moving in a few weeks, leaving you the apartment.'

Lizzy scowled at the thought of Jane and her not living together. Though it had been a short time, she really enjoyed her sister's company and did not want to lose her companionship so soon. Before thinking further on it, Will continued shifting in his chair so his whole body would face her.

'Elizabeth my love, will you move in with me?'

Stunned at the idea, never even thinking of that as an option, Lizzy sighed. Will waited on to hear her refusal, ready with reasons why she should reconsider.

'Oh Will…that's…that's a wonderful offer, but don't you think it's a bit too soon?'

Will shook his head.

'Hmm…I don't want to be a burden, having me live with you. I'd feel awful if I were to-'

'Lizzy, listen.' Will started taking hold of her hand. 'I want you to live with me. You are no burden, anything in my home is yours because I want you to consider it your home too. You can use anything you like, do anything you like, I want you in my home. Our home.'

Biting her lip while listening to him, she couldn't deny how kind of an offer it was, until it hit her.

'What about Jack?!'

Will laughed and tugged her hand for her to join him on his lap.

'Come here. Jack can live with us. I have no problems with that whatsoever. And should you wish to do so, we could adopt or purchase a whole pack of dogs. I will not refuse any wish of yours my love.'

Lizzy looked down at her hands, contemplating the offer.

'This is a huge step in our relationship.' She started to smile.

'Yes it is.' Will agreed and then after a short pause, continued.

'I believe it is the next step we need to take. We both want to spend our time with each other and eventually marry. Why not start with living together first? I don't see any reason not to.'

Finally, after mulling it quickly through her head, Lizzy nodded.

'Okay Will. I'll gladly move in with you.'

Not able to hold back any longer, Lizzy brightly smiled and Will's smile reached to his ears. Hugging her and kissing her for accepting, Will pulled back to relate some more news.

'I also have some other news for you. A bit of information should you have accepted, which you have.'

'What is it?' She asked interested.

'Well, I spoke to Charles about my idea regarding you living with me and I told him that since you and Jane would be moving out of the apartment, I suggested that Caroline move into the apartment.'

Forgetting that Will stated when and not if about her moving in, Lizzy's eyes shot wide open.

'What did he say?'

'Well…' Will started enjoying her reactions to his plan,' He thought that was a perfect idea. Naturally Jane and he want to have the house to themselves, but as they didn't want to just kick her out, they agreed that this idea would work out.'

'I wonder how she'll take the news.' Lizzy said.

'Well she'll have to consent. After a tantrum or two, she'll learn to live with the idea. I personally think some good will come out of it for her.'

'Your idea is perfect now that I think it over.' She smiled and kissed him on the cheek.

'Madam I always have perfect ideas.' He said with mock seriousness.

Lizzy laughed.

'And does your head fit through the doorways after you do?'

She laughed again and even more when Will's fingers found her ribs and began to tickle her.

'Never!' He said.

The day finally came when the four of them had to leave. Sadly, Georgie was reluctant to say goodbye, but looked forward to seeing them again.

Will had talked to her yesterday about spending the summer with him after Lizzy moved in. She gladly accepted and would wait until he called with more information.

After heartfelt goodbyes from everyone, including Mrs. Berth and Mrs. Reynolds, the four of them climbed into the car and were off to the airport.

Once they were settled on the jet, Marianne sighed.

'I don't want to leave.' She playfully whined.

Robert took her hand and kissed it.

'We'll be back before you know it. We did have a wonderful time though didn't we?'

Marianne nodded and leaned into her chair.

Will leaned into Lizzy's ear.

'Will you miss Pemberley my love?'

Lizzy turned from looking out the window and saying her silent goodbyes.

'I will. I already do. But I'll be here again.' She grinned, feeling Will's hand envelop hers.

The flight was mostly quiet. Silent reflection from every person was felt regarding the trip. Lizzy was excited to see Jane and Jack, even Charles again. She mentally made notes of things to speak to Will about privately regarding the move. Soon she was fast asleep for the remainder of the flight.

Jane and Charles were waiting for Will and Lizzy at the apartment to hear the details of the trip.

Tired and hungry, Will and Lizzy walked through the door, Will carrying Lizzy's luggage along with his travel bag for overnight stays at her place.

'Welcome home!' Jane and Charles cried in unison. Jack barked and literally jumped on Lizzy for her immediate attention. Lizzy gladly gave him the attention he need and asked for with pleasure.

Sitting down on the couch and letting a few yawns escape them, Will and Lizzy told them all about their week in England at Pemberley.

Shortly after, Jane and Charles had a bite to eat with them and then let them rest.

Lizzy flopped onto her bed with Will right behind her. Falling fast asleep, Will quickly pulled his arm around her while feeling Jack laying on his leg and fell asleep.

Waking up to a quiet room and checking the clock to see it was almost eight at night, Will pulled himself out of bed and after going to the bathroom, he ventured into the living room finding both Jane and Charles talking.

'Hey sleepyhead. Sleep well?' Jane asked getting up to get him a glass of water.

'Yeah I slept fine. Lizzy is still asleep though.'

'Did you tell her about moving in with you?' Charles asked grabbing Jane to join him.

'I did.'

'And?' Charles asked impatiently.

'Are you that anxious to get Caroline in here?' Will asked with a smile.

Put off a bit from his impatience, Charles blushed and quietly stated that that wasn't the case.

'I'm curious is all. You were quite adamant on the phone.'

Will chuckled and after taking a sip of his water, he responded.

'Well I did talk with her and she agreed that the idea was perfect.'

Charles glowed when he heard the news.

'Excellent! Now I just need to talk to Caroline.' He said soberly.

'That will be a problem.' Jane commented.

'I'm going to have to break it to her soon. She doesn't know that Jane is moving in yet. I've tried to tell her, but she doesn't pay attention.'

Will sighed. Caroline was becoming a pain. It was such a simple thing to do.

'Maybe? Maybe you could tell her with me Will.' Charles said.

Will's eyes darted to Charles and gave him a look of irritation.

'Why?' He asked with a hint of venom.

Charles shrugged and Jane intervened.

'I think Charles may be right Will. She listens to you and admires your ideas. Although we understand nothing will ever happen between you two, she doesn't believe that completely. She is still set on having you as her husband.'

Will felt ice cold chills run down his spine and limbs. The mere thought now of Caroline as his wife and he as her husband made him sick.

'No.' He said gloomy.

'Oh Will. Can't you see reason? It would work.' Charles said.

'What would work?'

The three of them turned around to find Lizzy rubbing her eyes like a small child while trying to pat Jack's head at the same time to keep him off her leg.

Will sighed as he motioned for her to join him on the couch.

'We were discussing how to tell Caroline about the move.' Will said as he pulled her into his arms and patted her head to rest under his chin.

'I've already tried to tell her, but she won't listen to me and I think as well as Jane that Will should tell her with me present.' Charles said letting go of Jane to get himself a drink.

As he walked into the kitchen, Jane flopped into his vacant seat and watched Lizzy sigh.

'I think they're right Will. You should tell her.' Lizzy said, amazing Will.

Will drew back from his embrace enough to look her in the eyes.

'You can't be serious.' He stated.

Lizzy nodded and ducked her head onto his chest again.

Will tightened his hold on her and kissed her head.

Sighing Will reluctantly agreed. If Lizzy was okay with it, then he would do it, but only if Charles was present. Smiling, Charles agreed.

'We should tell her at the party then. That's the only time I plan to see her and I don't want to make a special trip to do it.' Will said.

Charles frowned.

'You don't think she'd make a scene?'

Will's brow furrowed in thought.

'Hmm no. I know she won't. For her sake and for mine.'

After thinking it over, Charles agreed.

'Then at the party it is.' He said.