Author's Note: I would like to say "thank you" to two of my friends, Ewa and Joanna, who on hearing about my new story gave me some very important ideas that I used. I would also like to thank all of you who read my previous stories and commented on them.

Chapter One--Part One

Saturday, Afternoon

"Doctor, we have a female patient arriving in five minutes," said Charles Bingley, a personal assistant to doctor William Darcy, a youngest ever graduate from the Medical Academy and a man who at the age of thirty three was the head of the neurology clinic in St. Elizabeth's Hospital in London.

"Who is she?"

"Jane Bennet, age 24, from Hertfordshire, victim of a car crash on M25. Fractures of the scull, possible damage to the brain. She is unconscious but stable," reported Charles. After a four-year collaboration with Darcy he knew what information was expected from him. He and Darcy had known each other for more than seven years. Darcy was already a senior when Bingley started his studies. Then Darcy graduated and started his fantastic career. His friendship with Bingley continued and when the latter graduated, Darcy asked him to work for him. Bingley, knowing that his own career would never be bright, accepted. From then on, the co-operation flourished. Just as Darcy, Bingley worked in the hospital and at the Academy. Darcy had a series of lectures there for the third year students.

"Bennet? It sounds familiar," said Darcy, pretending he didn't know it.

"Yes. There is a student with the same name. She always asks questions at your lectures. Quite a bright one."

"Oh, yes. She can be very annoying but I hope it's not her," replied Darcy, knowing that his student's name was Elizabeth.

"No, your student's name is Elizabeth. The patient is Jane," said Bingley.

"Good. Let's go," concluded Darcy.

On his way to the helipad he was thinking about Elizabeth Bennet. She was bright, intelligent, witty and her eyes… her eyes were at the very least intriguing. However, as he told Bingley, she was very annoying, with her going deep into the subject and never being satisfied with the answers she was given.

Chapter One--Part Two

Darcy preferred to have his patients under his wings from the moment they entered the hospital, therefore it was he and not the ER people who took charge over Jane Bennet from the moment she was taken out of the helicopter. On their way to the theatre, Bingley was reading aloud all the information. She was stable, her heartbeat was 72, her blood pressure was 140/70. There was a massive fracture of the scull and although it wasn't open it did not look good to Bingley. The 911 Team wrote: "brain damage - possible". Apart from the fracture on the side of the head, the face of Jane Bennet was untouched. Bingley thought her rather beautiful.

"Does she have any family?" asked Darcy.

"Yes. They have already been informed. Her father should be here any minute."

"Good. We will operate as soon as the documents are signed."

"There is no need for that. Miss Bennet signed a form that she agrees to all medical procedures, including surgery, which will be necessary to save her life and allow recovery."

"What kind of an agreement is that?"

"It seems that Hertfordshire has a special policy for that. You can sign it and there will be no need to call the family and wait with the procedures until the papers are signed."

"It's a good idea. We should have it here, in London. I'll have to speak about it with the hospital management and London Health Department," he paused, "I want her tomography and X-ray. I'm going to prepare myself."

When Darcy returned, the X-rays of the patient's whole body were on the wall, and an enlarged tomographic scan of the brain was on an enormous computer screen. The fractures were not as serious as Darcy thought. At first sight, Darcy knew that they were not as bad as they looked and as Bingley suggested. Yet, the scan has shown there was almost no cause for worry. None of the bone pieces got into the brain itself. There were slight bruises on the surface but they would heal with time. Nonetheless, the surgery was needed. Darcy's main worry was that the patient could fall into coma if he made a smallest mistake while removing the parts of the broken bone. A millimetre slip and the patient would never wake up again. Such risk was always present. In neurology, there was such a small line between life and vegetation that he must have been a perfectionist in what he was doing. He always felt he wanted to save lives. Already as a child he preferred difficult situations to the easy ones. Neurology was his dreams fulfilled.

Chapter One--Part Three

Jane Bennet's surgery took seven hours but was successful. Of course, the question whether the patient would recover was yet to be answered, but Darcy was as satisfied as he was tired, and he was very tired. Bingley informed him that Mr. Bennet has arrived.

He was a man in his fifties and looked concerned about his daughter's condition. Darcy assured him that she was on her way to recovery, but the next twenty-four hours will be crucial. If anything was to go wrong it would be within the next day. As soon as Mr. Bennet was gone, Darcy changed and went home. He left orders, should anything happen, he should be summoned. It was eleven p.m. when he reached home, and fifteen minutes later, was already sleeping.

Chapter Two--Part One

Meanwhile in the train, Elizabeth Bennet was losing her senses. She was in Scotland for the weekend, when she was reached by the news that Jane had an accident. It was six o'clock then, and she caught the first train going to London. She was to arrive there at half past midnight. As soon as the train pulled in, Elizabeth hurried to the hospital. She was shown into the room where Mr. Bennet was sitting and there she received the news. However, Mr. Bennet was unable to give her medical details so, having him go to the hotel to get some sleep, she went to Jane's room in search of her medical record. In front of Jane's room, she met Charles Bingley. She knew him from the Academy. He was an assistant to Professor Darcy and Elizabeth often wondered how such a nice man could stand Darcy, who although was a great doctor, was too authoritative and self-centred for Elizabeth's taste. Bingley recognised her and said, pointing at Jane's room:

"Miss Bennet, I was hoping Jane Bennet was not your family?"

"Jane is my sister. How is she?"

"She will be fine."

"Could you show me her medical record?" asked Elizabeth.

"I shouldn't be doing it. Doctor Darcy doesn't like it, but I will make an exception for you. It is going to be our secret," said he, handing her the record.

Elizabeth went through it quickly. It seemed the damages were not as big as it was believed at first. She then spoke with Bingley for a while and asked him whether she could stay at Jane's bedside. He looked at her for some time and, seeing the begging expression of her eyes, said:

"Again, it's against regulations, but we broke them already. I think you can stay but you must leave before seven o'clock. Doctor Darcy will be here at seven"

"By seven, there will be no sign of myself."

"I have to be going," said he. "Nothing to be worried about," he reassured her again.

"Thank you. Good night."

"Good night," replied he and went away.

Elizabeth sat next to Jane's bed. Her sister looked calm. Had it not been for her head without hair and the bandages, Jane would look like a normal sleeping person.

The hours went by.

Chapter Two--Part Two

Sunday, 7:05 a.m.

Darcy arrived at the hospital at 6:45 a.m. He changed and together with Bingley went to see his patients. Jane Bennet was number one on his list. He entered the room and to his utter amazement, he saw somebody sleeping with their head on Jane's lap. He was furious. He did good job here, and the hospital couldn't provide order and proper security for his patients.

"This isn't hotel. We are trying to cure people here," said he in a sharp voice.

The head lifted, and he recognised Miss Elizabeth Bennet. They both were silent for a moment but then Darcy said:

"As a student of medicine you should know that patients need peace to recover. Especially when they are in intensive care."

"Yes, sir. But she is my sister."

"Sister or not, you should think first. Who let you in?"

Bingley was terrified. He knew Darcy could be very sharp when he had bad day. Today it looked like his bad day.

"I came on my own," Bingley heard Miss Bennet answering.

"I thought that my best student would be more reasonable. Please leave now, I need to examine the patient!"

Elizabeth was about to leave, when she turned and asked:

"Can I assist you, doctor?"

"What?"

"Can I stay and act as if it was a practice from the Academy?"

"But it's not a practice. Permission is not granted. Please leave."

Elizabeth was furious. She knew he could let her stay, but he chose not to. She was still standing outside Jane's room when she heard Bingley say:

"You could let her stay."

"No, Bingley, she broke the regulations, and as a future doctor she should know she was doing wrong."

"But she did nothing really wrong. I let her stay. She arrived at half past one this morning and was so concerned about her sister, I didn't have the heart to refuse her to stay with Jane."

"Bingley, you astonish me. How many times am I to tell you not to let visitors in? You have too good a heart."

"But I knew her. She is a medicine student, so she knows how to behave. Jane Bennet is her sister; she would never do her harm. Did you know that she came here all the way from Scotland?"

"And what was she doing in Scotland, when she has lectures on Monday?"

Bingley said nothing, and so did Darcy. The latter was concentrating on what he was doing, and Bingley was contemplating how he found all this courage to oppose Darcy.

Chapter Two--Part Three

On her way downstairs, Elizabeth was rethinking her conversation with Darcy. He called her, his best student. During the lectures, he seemed almost displeased when she asked questions. She thought he didn't like her, and now, being angry, he told her, she was his best student. It was with no doubt, a compliment. She had to admit he had grounds for being angry. She knew she broke the regulations. Nonetheless, he could let her stay. Jane is her sister. It was too severe a punishment. Buried in such thoughts, she was approached by Darcy himself, who also was rethinking their conversation.

He decided he was too severe and he should apologise, especially if it could allow him to meet Miss Bennet again. He found her in the waiting area, staring through the window. There was nobody else in the room.

"Miss Bennet," started he, "I would like to apologise you for what I said."

She nodded.

"I know that Mr. Bingley allowed you to stay," continued he, "I can guess that he also told you to leave before seven. I appreciate that you wanted to save him from my anger, but I am not that much of a monster. I would like to prove it by inviting you to lunch."

This time Elizabeth answered:

"I'm afraid I will have to stay here in case something happens to Jane."

"We will go to the hospital's canteen. If something happens, I will be paged first and you can come along. I grant you permission for the practice."

To that, Elizabeth couldn't say "no".

"Shall we meet at one in the canteen?" continued Darcy.

"Yes, of course," murmured she.

Chapter Three

At 1:05 p.m., Elizabeth was standing at the canteen's door. Darcy left her a note that he might be late. Five minutes later he was there, too.

"I'm sorry for being late. I had a conference with hospital management. I hope you have received my note?" said he.

"Yes. How did the conference go?"

"Good. We will try to implement the Hertfordshire medical policies in London."

"You mean 'The Medical Procedure Agreement'?"

"Yes. It seems to be a perfect solution for our problems here. Shall we order lunch?"

They both took sandwiches and sat at the far table.

"How did it happen that you have started medicine?" inquired he.

"I always felt like curing people. I wanted to save people's lives."

"I felt quite the same, but please continue."

"However my dream almost never came true. My parents could not afford sending two daughters to good schools and good collages. My sister--Jane was two years older, so she was the first. She wanted to study modern languages, so when she failed to get the scholarship, my father decided to pay anyway. I had to get full scholarship if I wanted to study medicine. I did not qualify for the full one and had to resign. I started working, and then two years later Jane got the full scholarship, and my father could now give me financial support. I applied for the scholarship again and again received 40% of the full one. These time however, I could start studying. Jane finished her studies and started working for the government. She felt obliged to cover some part of my expenses. I declined the offer. She insisted that I live with her in London. I liked the idea and we run the household together."

"I never experienced such problems. I would say I had more luck. My parents had money and gave me anything I wanted, but failed to give me one thing. I could never see them congratulating me when I finished my studies. They both died in a car crash two months earlier. I was left alone with a twelve year old sister to raise."

"I'm sorry. It must have been painful."

"Yes, at the beginning very much. Even now when I have a day off and I sit by myself at home, I see their faces and…" his voice trailed off and Elizabeth thought she had seen tears in his eyes. However, he soon recollected and continued: "I'm normally not like that. I don't talk like that but this moment… I felt I could tell you all."

Elizabeth smiled and said nothing.

"Which medical specialisation are you interested in?" asked he, but Elizabeth could not answer as she heard a voice coming from behind:

"William, I didn't know you were working today?"

"Hello, Caroline. Yes, I'm a doctor here and doctors work in hospitals."

"You never change Will, and that's why I like you." cried Caroline to Elizabeth's amusement.

"Elizabeth, I don't believe you know Caroline. Caroline Bingley, Elizabeth Bennet. Caroline is Charles Bingley's sister."

"Please to meet you Eliza. Darcy, you must come to dinner tomorrow."

"I am so sorry Caroline. I promised Miss Bennet that we will go to Covent Gardens to see the new play."

"Then come on Tuesday," continued Caroline, this time however with a slight jealousy in her voice. Elizabeth almost burst laughing listening to her.

"I don't think I will be able. I'll call you during the week."

Caroline looked at Elizabeth and said:

"Good day, Eliza, see you Will."

When she was gone, Darcy said:

"I hope you are not offended that I used you as a pretense to get rid of Caroline. Bingley is such a nice fellow, but Caroline can be so tiresome."

"I feel by no means offended."

"Good. In fact I was hoping that we could go to Covent Gardens together. I have tickets for the tomorrow."

"Why, yes…" she paused and blushed.

"I didn't mean to be impertinent or put you in a difficult situation. If you have any other obligations, just tell me," responded he, praying she was free.

"I have no previous obligations, whatsoever. I'll be glad to go with you. What is the title of the play?"

"'On the Beach'. It's based on a book…"

"…by Nevil Shute. I have read it. Its very good but terrifying as well."

"What people can do to other people. One cobalt bomb and there is no way back. We are wiped out of existence," added he.

There was a pause.

"Isn't it strange?" asked she.

"What?"

"The fact that had it not been for Jane's accident we would stay on professor-student bases."

"That would…"

He was interrupted by the sound of the hospital intercom:

"Doctor Darcy, doctor Darcy, please come to room 273."

"It's my sister's room. Something happened."

"She probably regained consciousness. If you come with me, you will be able to begin your work as an "acting doctor" at once. I forgot to tell you. I signed the permission for your practice on neurology."

"Thank you."

"You are very welcome."

As they entered Jane's room, Elizabeth noticed that Jane was conscious. She wouldn't have paid attention to the man standing next to Jane's bed, if she hadn't heard Darcy's voice:

"Wickham, what are you doing here?"

Chapter Four--Part One

"Calm down, Darcy," said the man and on quitting the room added looking at Elizabeth, "I was looking after a neglected patient."

"Who was he?" asked Elizabeth.

"No one worth mentioning," answered Darcy and turning to Jane said: "Can you hear me, Jane?"

Jane wasn't reacting. She looked at him but it was obvious she couldn't hear him.

"Miss Bennet, what is your diagnosis?"

"I would say: 'surditas nervosa' or 'conductionis'." answered Elizabeth.

"How would you discern between the two?"

"Weber, Rinny or Schwabach test."

"Good. Let's try Weber. If it's surditas nervosa what will be the patient's reaction?"

"She should hear no trembling in her ears."

"Good. Let's see… . It's the one," said he as Jane did not react. "What is the cause for it?"

"It's probably the drugs she was given."

"Which one in this case?"

Elizabeth thought for a while and then said:

"Streptomicine."

"Good. What do you recommend?"

"It should pass within 24 hours from the last dosage of the drug."

"Very good."

He completed two other tests and left both sisters together. Elizabeth wanted to tell Jane about everything that happened but Jane fell asleep in the middle of it. Elizabeth sat holding her hand when Bingley came in.

"Doctor Darcy told me you were here. He asked me to call you to his office. I'll sit with your sister, if you want."

"It's very kind of you. Do you know what doctor Darcy wants from me?"

"No, I am sorry."

When Elizabeth came into Darcy's office, the clock struck five. He turned towards her and smiled when he heard her coming in:

"I'm going home now," said he, "and I insist that you go back home, too. Tomorrow you have lectures and you had hardly slept last night. Jane is in good hands so there is no need to worry."

Elizabeth was trying to oppose but Darcy couldn't be broken:

"Plus, don't think I will give you easy time during the lecture just because we are going out tomorrow. If you do not know the material, I will find it out," concluded he teasingly. "No more quarrels. You are going home and I will give you a ride."

When they were already in the car, Darcy asked her:

"Where is your father?"

"I convinced him to return to Hertfordshire this morning."

They arrived at Elizabeth's house. He bid her farewell and drove away. She walked up the stairs and on finding herself in the apartment, discovered how tired she was. Within half an hour she was ready to go to bed. For the next twelve hours she was dead asleep.

Chapter Four--Part Two

At quarter to nine am, Elizabeth was sitting together with her colleagues waiting for Professor Darcy to come. Punctually at nine he entered and greeted his students.

"Today we are going to talk about hypothalamus. Let's start with macroscopic anatomy. Hypothalamus consists of infundibulum, tuber cinereum, corpora mamillaria, chiasma opticum, and circulus arterious cerebi Willisi."

He continued in the same manner for the next half an hour. Elizabeth Bennet hadn't asked one single question. Finally he couldn't stand it and asked:

"Miss Bennet, could you name four nuclei of the supraopticus part?

Elizabeth started:

"Nucleus suprachiasmaticus, paraventricubris, supraopticus and the forward one."

He finished the lecture and said:

"Miss Bennet, could you please stay?"

He pretended to put his papers together and when they were left alone he asked:

"What is wrong with you, Elizabeth?"

"Nothing."

"I was observing you. You haven't asked me one single question."

"There was no question to be asked."

"I know you could come up with millions of questions. Why didn't you?"

"I don't know."

"I hope the fact that we go to dinner today doesn't make you feel awkward?"

"The dinner?"

"Yes. I meant to tell you that I wanted to take you to dinner tonight after the theatre. Will you accept?"

"Yes."

"Good. I will be at your house at seven."

"Till then," said she and went out.

The remaining hours, Elizabeth spent in the hospital with Jane. Without streptomicine, Jane's hearing was returning to normal. During the hours there, Elizabeth met Bingley a few times. He was coming to see Jane under every pretense he could come up with. He was almost sorry he couldn't stay overnight and sit with Jane. At five, Elizabeth kissed her sister good-bye and went home. She left guilty at first but Jane convinced her she should enjoy her time with Darcy. In Jane's opinion he was a good sort of man and Elizabeth was ready to acknowledge it. She was enjoying a thought of going out with him tonight.

Chapter Five

When the bell rang at seven o'clock, Elizabeth was ready. She was wearing a long green taffeta dress and her eyes were lit with sparkles. She greeted Darcy with a big smile. On coming in he kissed her hand:

"You look lovely, Elizabeth."

"Thank you, William."

"Are you ready?"

"Yes. Shall we go?"

"After you."

They were sitting in the theatre. The play was very good and moving. Elizabeth had tears in her eyes. At a certain moment, Darcy touched her hand and held it until the break. They went to the bar and ordered martini dry. They stood in the corner talking. She has been telling him about her childhood and family.

"Apart from Jane, I have three other sisters. They are all younger. None of them wanted to study so Lydia and Kitty work as secretaries in Berkshire, and Mary married a parson - Mr. Collins. Jane and myself, we were always very close to each other. We became even more so when we started to live together in London."

"Jane doesn't live with her boyfriend? It's rather strange nowadays."

"We, English girls are not always immoral," laughed she, "Jane had a number of boyfriends but none of them really counted. She didn't love them. I'm rather happy she did not get herself in a relationship with one of them. They would make her unhappy."

"I have the same feelings towards my sister. She in 19 now but during high school she had a number of male friends who were not suitable. I was sometimes quite worried but it came and went. She never really cared for them."

"William, will you be at the student ball on Saturday?"

"I wasn't planning to come, but now that you will be there I will come if you want me to."

"Oh, yes. But I'm afraid we cannot come together. It would do your reputation no good."

"And yours, Elizabeth. But I think I can promise I will dance with you."

"What about your reputation?" asked she teasingly.

"I don't think it will do any harm. After all I can dance with my best student once."

The break ended and they went towards their seats. The play finished forty-five minutes later and hand in hand they went to dinner to the nearby restaurant. Again, they were talking about her family:

"I always favoured my father over my mother. I have always been curious how these two could have fallen in love and marry. It's true my mother was beautiful but she has had nothing in common with my father."

"But their marriage lasted?"

"Yes, however, they led their lives apart. My father lived among his books, and my mother among her friends. They almost never talked unless it was my father teasing her. I was happy when I went to school."

"Were you in a boarding school?"

"Yes. I won a scholarship to a boarding school in Kent. I could never afford it, had it not been for the scholarship. What about you?"

"Well, my parents were rather rich. They both came from old, untitled families but seemed to be very happy together. For fourteen years I was the only child. My mother had several miscarriages but finally Gee was born. We were one happy family and I think I was very dependent on my parents and then, one day, I woke up and they were no longer there. I knew I had a little sister to raise and decided to be bold. Whatever I was doing I was doing thinking of her."

They left the restaurant. Darcy slowly drove his Jaguar through the empty streets of London. They arrived in front of Elizabeth's home and he walked her to the door.

"Won't you come in?"

"I don't think it would be the best idea."

"Why?"

"You know very well why. I would probably be unable to control myself. You look so beautiful tonight."

He pulled her towards himself and kissed. At first she was passive but feeling the pressure of his lips, started to kiss him back. She felt warmth all over her body. His lips tasted sweetly. She knew she could stay there with him for hours. Finally she broke the kiss.

"William, you should better go."

"I know, but I won't be able to sleep if you don't kiss me once more."

He touched her lips and she kissed him passionately.

"Good night, darling," said he.

"Good night."

He jumped into his car and drove away. Elizabeth felt she was happy.

Chapter Six

In the morning, Darcy woke up as the happiest man in the City. He found the love of his life, and the women he cherished, returned his feelings. He had a day off and could spend it contemplating his beloved one. At noon, he heard the mailman but showed no interest in his mail. He was counting hours till the time he could call Elizabeth. The hours went by but too slowly. He decided to kill some time reading the mail. He opened the mailbox and found five envelopes. There were three bills, a letter from his Aunt Catherine and a letter without a stamp. He opened the last one and read:

"Darcy,

I know everything. Your relationship with Elizabeth Bennet, your student and a sister to your patient is an outrageous break of medical ethics. I am in possession of photos, which will prove that you wanted to seduce her. Should you continue, the hospital management will be informed about your behaviour. If you meet her again, the effect will be the same. Not only will your career be destroyed but that of Miss Bennet too. She will never find a good job. No hospital will ever employ a doctor who became a doctor just because of a relationship with one of her professors. We know it's not true but it's going to be your word against mine. Guess, whom they believe?"

The letter was typed and unsigned. At first, Darcy couldn't comprehend it but after rereading the letter twice, a terrible thought occurred to him. He had no right to destroy Elizabeth's future. He was sure the author would use his knowledge to destroy Elizabeth and him. The longer he was thinking about it, the more clear it became to him that he must get out of Elizabeth's life if he really cares about her. He decided he had to break the relationship before it could hurt Elizabeth more. He was hoping she hadn't fallen for him, so much as he has for her. He was praying he would be the only one to suffer. Now, he had to inform Elizabeth about it. But how was he to do it? He couldn't meet her, the telephone was out of question. It would have been too cruel. A letter could always be caught or get lost. The only sensible possibility was e-mail. He had no difficulty finding her e-mail address via people search and now there was only the content of it to be written. He tried many times and finally the letter was written.

He clicked "Send" and he felt his heart was being torn apart. With one finger he destroyed his life. He tried not to think he destroyed Elizabeth's life too. He knew that without her, his life would no longer mean anything. Everything that gave his life meaning disappeared when his computer showed Elizabeth's address on the "SENT MESSAGES" board. He wanted to fall asleep and never wake up again. The only thing that gave him a little consolation was the fact that Elizabeth would finally get over him and lead a happy, successful life.

Elizabeth came back home flying. She was anxiously waiting for William's call. She prepared herself dinner and put her computer on, hoping he would call soon. There was only one e-mail message waiting. It was one sentence long and said:

"Miss Bennet,

I was behaving myself against every rule of medical ethics. I cannot endanger our future careers. Forgive me!

William Darcy"

Elizabeth's heart broke and tears couldn't be held back. She couldn't believe he could do it after yesterday evening. It was he who invited her and he who did everything possible to be near her. He seemed so happy and so full of love. She picked the receiver and dialed his number. The line was busy and continued to be so for the next hours.

It had been the longest night of her life. She couldn't understand why he wrote such a cruel letter. By morning, the only reasonable thing, she came up with, was to confront him and somehow convince him that there was nothing unethical in love between two grown up people.

Chapter Seven--Part One

Elizabeth arrived at the hospital at seven o'clock in the morning and went straight to Jane's room. She was sure he would come there and she wasn't mistaken. Quarter past seven he came in together with Bingley.

"Good morning, Miss Bennet" said he in a changed voice.

"Good morning, doctor. I wonder how good it must be."

He said nothing but his face seemed to be full of pain. Elizabeth couldn't understand why. For the next twenty minutes he was silent as was Elizabeth. She didn't want to talk with Bingley in the room. Finally Darcy started:

"Your sister is in much better condition. I believe she will be able to return home on Sunday. She should stay in bed for the next three or four weeks and even later she might need professional help of a nurse. Therefore I think your practice here will come to an end. I am sure you have enough work with your studies." with that he left.

Bingley said partly to Elizabeth, partly to himself:

"What is wrong with him, today?"

"I wish I knew." said she, holding her tears back and quitted the room.

It all didn't make sense. On Monday evening, with his kiss he was professing his love and now he treated her as though she meant nothing to him. Nonetheless, she was sure she had seen a chasm of pain on his face while at Jane's room. She kept wondering what happened, but nothing sensible came to her mind.

Chapter Seven--Part Two

She was supposed to go to lectures but with her mind full of Darcy, she was sure she couldn't stand a lecture on anatomy. She just wanted to talk about everything with some one she could trust. Jane shouldn't be worried and there seemed to be no other person who could understand her. Suddenly she thought about Charlotte Lucas, her best friend from the Academy. Elizabeth knew that Charlotte had already passed her exams in anatomy last year, so she should have been at home now.

Half an hour later, Elizabeth was knocking on Charlotte's door. Charlotte, still in her pyjamas, opened it and cried:

"Lizzy! What are you doing here?"

"Oh, Charlotte! Hug me! Hug me, or I'll burst into tears right away!"

Charlotte did as she was asked but Elizabeth was already weeping. Calming herself with hot chocolate prepared by Charlotte, she began to tell the whole story. She concluded it with:

"The longer I think about it, the more I'm convinced that he never cared nor loved me. He was just pretending to because he wanted to use me."

"Elizabeth, I don't believe it. From what you said I can safely venture that he was, and still is, in love with you. Something must have happened, and it caused his actions."

"No, Charlotte. It's not possible. If you were in love, would you send your beloved such a letter?"

"No, but…"

"Charlotte, don't try to justify his actions. He wanted to use me, or at least hurt me very much."

"If he wanted to use you, he would go much farther than a kiss in front of your house. Maybe he was blackmailed?"

"Blackmailed!!! Charlotte, bring yourself to reason! If you are blackmailed you go to the police!"

"Of course, but not if you have done something wrong. Say, broke the medical ethics."

"He did not! We are both grown up people and we can do what we want. If you want to defend him, find better arguments. These, I do not accept!"

"You are too severe on yourself and him, too. You don't know all his reasons."

"Maybe, I don't, but those that I know are good enough for me."

Charlotte wanted to say that Elizabeth was being prejudiced, but seeing how mortified her friend was she checked herself. Instead she started talking about her work as a shop correspondent for Daily Mail but Elizabeth couldn't be cheered up. She left around two o'clock, when Charlotte had to go to work, but her heart was just as heavy as it was before the conversation.

She returned home and opened the fridge. It was empty except for a bottle of Italian red wine. She took the bottle out and poured herself a glass. She put the "Titanic" soundtrack on and sat on a sofa. After the first glass, came the second and then another one. She was pouring it till she emptied the bottle. And then, she was unable to get up and fell asleep as the CD, set on repeat, played the sorrowful tones of the soundtrack.

Chapter Eight--Part One

Elizabeth woke up, feeling like a shipwreck, lying four thousand feet below the see level. On her way to the bathroom, she promised herself she would never mix red wine and the music from the "Titanic" soundtrack. She thought she couldn't stay at home. He was always in her thoughts and to get him out of there she had to find some object to concentrate on. A lecture on medicine seemed to be the right thing. She dressed and went to the lectures. For the next six hours she was focusing on the brainstem auditory evoked responses.

She was sitting with Charlotte during the break, when a young girl approached her and said:

"Excuse me, are you Elizabeth Bennet?"

"Yes. Can I help you?"

"I believe you are my new "guide-to-the-Academy" so to speak."

"Who?"

"Mary King had to leave for this trimester and I was told you will take over."

"I see."

"I forgot to introduce myself. Georgiana Fitzwilliam."

"Please to meat you. How do you imagine our co-operation?"

"Mary and I, we used to meet at her house once a week to discuss everything that happened throughout the week. But it's really up to you."

"Well, I like the idea. Shall we meet on Monday afternoon?"

"Sounds good to me. Where shall we meet?"

"My place; 7 Gladstone Gardens. Do you know where that is?" asked Elizabeth.

"Yes, no problem. See you then!"

Chapter Eight, Part One - Continued

"See you." cried Elizabeth but Georgiana was already gone.

"She seems to be amiable." remarked Charlotte.

"Yes."

"It's good for you to meet new people."

Elizabeth said nothing. He was there again, standing in front of her house, kissing her passionately. Where did she go wrong? Why hasn't she judged him properly at the very beginning?

Part Two

It was Thursday and Elizabeth thought it had been the longest six days of her life. Friday came, finding Elizabeth working hard, and went, leaving the spectre of a free weekend in front of her. She went to the library and the first book that she encountered was "Neuroanatomy" by Fix and there he was again in her thoughts. She finally chose three volumes on the history of medicine. She decided she could prepare herself for the exam from this subject this weekend. She would then pass it next week. She was sure the professor would allow her to do it.

She began studying as soon as she returned home. On Saturday, at noon, Charlotte called her:

"What time should I be at your place?"

"Excuse me?"

"Remember, we have a ball tonight."

"I'm not going."

"Oh yes, you are. I nominated myself to the post of your guardian and I demand that you go."

"Charlotte, I won't go."

"Elizabeth, he will not come. That's what you worry about, isn't it?"

"It doesn't matter. I don't care about him."

"Stop telling me such idiotic things. I know you love him and that you cannot get him out of your mind." cried Charlotte silently. Instead she said:

"You should meet new people. Who knows, maybe your destiny awaits you there."

"Don't be silly, Charlotte!"

"Good, then it's settled. I shall be at your place at eight. By the way, I met Georgiana Fitzwilliam yesterday and she asked me whether I had your telephone number because you haven't settled the hour of your meeting. I gave it to her. You don't mind, do you?"

"Not at all."

"All right. I'll be there at eight. See you."

It seemed Charlotte was determined to take her to the party. From the time of Charlotte's call, Elizabeth couldn't concentrate on the history of medicine. Subconsciously she was thinking about Darcy again. She remembered the moment she invited him to the ball, and how they were talking about their dance together. It still seemed real but it will never come true now. He decided for them both and barely informed her of his decisions. Why? Elizabeth still couldn't comprehend.

Chapter Nine, Part One

As promised, Charlotte arrived at eight. Elizabeth wasn't ready and had it not been for Charlotte's enthusiasm and help, she would never manage to finish her hair and make-up. She could envision no pleasant moments during the evening to come, so the preparations for it gave her no pleasure either. Both friends set off from Elizabeth's house at nine. The ball was to be held in a medicine students' club next to the Academy main building.

The club was full of light and familiar faces. From the first tones of the music, Elizabeth was constantly asked to dance and seeing Charlotte's demanding look she dared not refuse. Finally she was able to sit down and having sent her partner to get something to drink, she looked around the room. As she glanced at the entrance, she saw him. Doctor William Darcy was standing next to the door, staring at her and nervously sipping whiskey. He saw her looking at him and closed his eyes. He lifted them up again and looked as though he wanted to approach her but something stopped him as the expression on his face changed. Again, there was some kind of pain visible on his face. No matter how devastated she was by his actions, Elizabeth felt almost sorry for him. Yet, the memory of all the sorrow he caused made her want some kind of revenge. At that very moment she was approached by a familiar looking man:

"Miss Bennet, I presume. My name is George Wickham. We have met in the hospital."

"Yes. I remember. You were in my sister's room when I came in."

"Yes. I believe you were with Doctor Darcy, then?"

"Yes, he is Jane's doctor."

"How is your sister?"

"Much better, thank you. She is going home tomorrow."

"So soon. It's been just a week since the accident."

"The doctors insure me that there is no danger."

"Well, if Darcy says it, it must be right. The only thing he does well is cure. Everything else he screws. Shall we dance?"

"With pleasure," answered Elizabeth. She already knew how to get revenge on Darcy. The dear Doctor Darcy disliked Wickham. What would be a sweeter revenge than she in company of Wickham.

As the new song began they joined the dancers. Elizabeth was trying to behave as though she had great time. After three dances with Wickham, she ventured:

"You said, Dr Darcy screws everything. What did you mean by that?"

"It's a long story. I don't know whether I should tell it."

Elizabeth was silent but Wickham continued after a while:

"I think I can."

Chapter Nine, Part Two

"Long ago," started Wickham, "I was studying medicine, too. Darcy was my fellow student. At the beginning he was very kind towards the others, including myself but then the first exams came and the amiable doctor-to-be Darcy started to mind his own business only. He had access to the tests but never wanted to share them with the rest of us. One day I got one of the tests, too and I gave a copy to my friends. Darcy knew about it and told the professor. I was suspended and I would probably have never finished medicine, had it not been for some good soul who saved me. I still don't know to whom I'm indebted. From that time our lives went in different directions. I decided I was better in collecting money than in curing so I dedicated my life to collecting money for the poor and the sick, for welfare and hospitals. Two years ago, Darcy's sister had been attacked and almost raped. I found her lying unconscious in a park alley. I called the ambulance and waited for its arrival. When Darcy saw me in the hospital two days later, he was furious. He claimed I attacked her. He knew it wasn't true and there were of course no proofs for that but he used his power against me. He discredited me in the eyes of my employees. I had to go to the North and find my living there."

"George, I'm speechless. How could he do such a thing? He had no right! He is such a hateful man."

"One should never trust him, Elizabeth, as a person of course but he is a good doctor. However, let's talk about it no more. We should enjoy the evening."

"You are right, George. But before we go on, could you bring me something to drink."

"At your service. Will you wait here at the table? I'll be right back."

When he was gone, Elizabeth looked around the room. She wanted to find Darcy and look into his eyes triumphantly but he was nowhere to be seen.

Chapter Nine, Part Three

Darcy knew he had to go to the ball. He had to see her again. He was aware he could not speak with her, she wouldn't probably even let him if he approached her but he felt he needed her presence near him.

He arrived quite late and having ordered whiskey, stood next to the entrance. He observed her dancing with various young men. She was smiling but there was no joy on her face. It worried him and gave some inexplicable consolation. The fact that she wasn't happy suggested she cared for him. If she did, she might have not forgotten him and maybe somehow they will be able to be together in the future. At the same time it meant her heart was wounded and it was the last thing he wanted. However the worse part of the evening was yet to come. As she was sitting opposite to him, he saw Wickham approach her. He wanted to run and rescue her from his distrustful hands but he couldn't. It occurred to him that Wickham might have been the author of the letter and that he was now testing him. Darcy saw Elizabeth accept Wickham's hand in dance and throughout it she behaved even more playfully than before. He realised it was aimed at him. She wanted revenge and he could understand it.

As she was dancing with Wickham for the third time, Darcy could no longer stand it. He turned back and quitted the room. His heart was torn apart. The vision of Elizabeth, his Elizabeth with Wickham was devastating. He had to leave.

He wandered through the streets of London looking for something that couldn't be found. The dawn greeted him on the bank of the Thames. A new day was beginning. It was free of yesterday's mistakes but it seemed that the past was a shadow on the rising sun. For the first time he had no purpose in life.

Chapter Nine, Part Four

Elizabeth came back home at dawn. Wickham was an excellent companion and the intelligence she received from him enabled the anger in her heart to disappear. She went to bed and she would probably sleep till the afternoon, had it not been for a telephone from Georgiana Fitzwilliam:

"Elizabeth? It's Georgiana Fitzwilliam. I hope I haven't woke you up?"

"No, not at all," answered Elizabeth still half-asleep.

"I know I have. I am sorry, but I don't know at what time I should come tomorrow."

"How about six pm?"

"Six thirty would be better. Can you make it?" asked Georgiana

"Yes, no problem. It's 6.30 then."

"Great. See you then and once more sorry for waking you up."

"Bye," said Elizabeth and hung up the receiver.

She looked at the alarm clock and realised she was supposed to check Jane out of the hospital at three o'clock. It was already one. She took a long shower and drove to the hospital. When she entered room 273 she found Jane and Bingley in conversation. Bingley turned to Elizabeth and said:

"Miss Bennet, I know Dr Darcy ordered your sister to stay in bed for the next three or four weeks and I know you have lectures so you would probably need some help. I would like to offer my services."

"What do you mean?"

"I ask you for permission to take care of your sister while you are not at home. I mean when you will be unable to."

Elizabeth looked at Jane and saw no opposition.

"That is very kind of you but will it not collide with your duties here?"

"No, I have three weeks off. I hadn't had vacation for the last two years."

"I see. Well, you are very welcome."

"Good, good. Forgive me now. It's my last day so I have to fill my replacement in. I'll call you today and we'll settle the hours. See you, Jane. Good bye, Miss Bennet."

"Good bye, Mr. Bingley."

Elizabeth looked at Jane and said:

"It seems you are even more seductive in hospital bed than in normal life."

"Stop it, Lizzy. Charles is very nice but…"

"Jane, you always say it and then you fall in love."

Jane laughed. At that moment the door opened and Dr Darcy came in:

"Good afternoon."

"Good afternoon, doctor" answered Jane but Elizabeth was silent.

"How are you today, Miss Bennet? Ready to go home?" said he to Jane.

"Yes. Anxiously waiting."

"Good. I heard Charles is going to look after you."

"Yes, he will replace my sister."

"Of course."

"Miss Bennet," said he to Elizabeth, "can we talk?"

"We have nothing to talk about."

"But you have certainly found topics with Mr. Wickham."

"Yes, he is a very agreeable companion. Unlike some others."

"I can't deny it. He can be very pleasing. You seemed to have good time yesterday, very good time. I wonder if it hadn't been too good for some one who has a sister in hospital. Good day, Miss Bennet." And he was gone.

"Lizzy, what was it all about?"

"Nothing Jane. Your doctor and I seem to disagree on various topics."

"But you liked him and went out with him! What happened?"

"Jane, it was a mistake and it's over now. I don't want to talk about it. Let me help you dress. It's time to go home."

Chapter Nine, Part Five

Time went by. Bingley came every day and helped both Jane and Lizzy. Every time it was more obvious he was in love with Jane and it seemed his feelings were returned. Elizabeth stopped attending neurology classes and heard nothing about Dr William Darcy. Due to hard work and Wickham's frequent presence, the image of Darcy began to fade, but she hasn't freed herself from it. Deep in her heart, he was still there. And if she dreamt, she dreamt about him.

Her friendship with Georgiana Fitzwilliam flourished. Their weekly meetings changed into frequent ones in the Academy bar or visits to the shops. Elizabeth noticed that Georgiana came from a rich family. She could probably afford everything that the shops offered but she never showed off. She possessed the talent of making people feel at ease. Elizabeth introduced her to some of her third year friends and Georgiana was so thankful that she insisted that once a week they should go to dinner together. Elizabeth later found out it was one of the most exclusive restaurants in London. Observing Georgiana, Elizabeth noticed that deep in her heart, the girl was shy. The playful manner was just a mask to cover her uncertainty. Georgiana was terribly afraid of doing or saying something wrong and she believed that people looked at her just to criticise. This was something Elizabeth was trying to put out of Georgiana's head. They talked about everything except two topics. Georgiana never mentioned her family and Elizabeth was silent on her unfortunate relationship with William. Georgiana did mention she had a brother of whom she talked with great fondness, if she talked about him. She never mentioned his name though and Elizabeth never asked.

Although Elizabeth was meeting Wickham, she somehow kept imagining what Darcy would do in that or other situation if he were in Wickham's place. She believed that disclosing their affair would kill the beauty of the moments, they shared. She stopped blaming Darcy for what he did to her. Now she blamed him for what he did to George, of which they talked, or at least George talked quite often.

Chapter Ten, Part One

Three months later

One Monday, Elizabeth and George Wickham took lunch in one of the Academy pubs. He had two pieces of news for her. He got a large sum of money for St. Anne's Hospital. This was the good news. The bad one was that he had to go back to the North in two weeks time. Having finished their lunch they went towards the Academy building. Neither of them noticed Georgiana Fitzwilliam standing on the other side of the street. She looked stunned. It seemed so impossible that Elizabeth could be with Wickham. Georgiana knew Lizzy and her sister Jane were dating but she didn't know the boys, but she couldn't understand how Wickham could have fooled such a bright person as Lizzy. All she knew now was that Elizabeth could be in great danger.

Georgiana came back home and started to rethink every fact she had. It could not have been a business meeting because they were walking hand in hand, yet they did not look like two people in love. She had seen people in love; her brother, for instance. Trying to help him through the last three months she saw the expression of his eyes. They were saying: "I love you" and then added "and I miss you so much."

When William, her brother, came to her one Sunday afternoon and held her in his arms for full ten minutes, she knew something must have happened. He then sat down and told her the story. He told her he met a woman and fell in love. They had beautiful time together but because she was his student, it was unethical and he was blackmailed. The person threatened that their careers will be ruined, so he wrote an e-mail, saying it was over and that he was sorry he behaved himself the way he did. He said she didn't want to speak to him again. He never mentioned her name but he was referring to her in the most tender of ways. When Georgiana heard about the e-mail he had written to his beloved one, she was shocked:

"William, why hadn't you explained everything to her? She would have understood and maybe you would find a solution!"

"I don't know. I think I was hoping she wasn't in love with me, and that she wouldn't feel hurt."

"It doesn't matter whether she loved you or not but it simply wasn't fair."

He was silent.

They had discussed the subject many times since that evening. She had been observing him and noticed how changed he was. Her brother, William Jeffrey Darcy was no longer himself. Life had taught him a hard lesson and as time went by he was beginning to comprehend it. He saw how badly he treated the woman he loved. And finally, it was only yesterday that Georgiana heard him say:

"Gee, I believe I was thinking rather of myself and my career than about her."

Neither heart nor reason could tell Georgiana how she should act now, neither in her brother's case nor in Elizabeth's. She didn't know how to help them both. She couldn't discuss Elizabeth and Wickham's case with William because he still thought she was unaware of what really happened two years ago. And then she couldn't talk about William with Elizabeth because she promised him not to reveal his secret to anyone. If only she knew the woman's name she would go to her and try to amend her brother's wrong doings. But William did want to say it.

There seemed to be no way out and she was depressed and at a loss. What she saw that afternoon, even lowered her spirits and after a five hour deliberation, she decided that Elizabeth must be told the truth about Wickham. She dialed Lizzy's number and on hearing familiar voice said:

"Lizzy, are you alone? I must talk to you!"

"Yes. Jane is in the theatre. Is there anything wrong?"

"I'll tell you everything in half an hour. Bye."

Chapter Ten, Part Two

The bell rang and Georgiana came in.

"Lizzy, there is something you must know."

"Georgie, I hope you are all right."

"I'm fine. Maybe not very fine but it is of no importance now. I saw you today."

"Where? I haven't seen you!"

"At lunch time. With George Wickham!"

"You know George?"

"Yes… no.."

"So?"

"Lizzy, are you dating him?"

"You are being blunt but if you call meeting another person in your free time because that person asks you to and it's a "he" then we are dating."

"Lizzy, don't be angry. I'm just trying to save you."

"Save me? From what?"

"From George Wickham. He is a very bad man."

"You said you didn't know him."

"Please listen to me. It was two years ago. I was coming back home alone in the evening. I was going through the park when I was grabbed and hit. I have no memories of what happened later. I woke up in hospital two days later. My brother told me only that I was robbed but later I learned the truth. I was almost raped."

Elizabeth wanted to stop her but Georgiana silenced her.

"Don't say anything, let me continue. My brother who is a doctor had to leave for a week. In the meantime his secretary called me and said she needed a copy of a medical record of one of his patients. I went to his desk and searched it. In the bottom drawer I found an envelop and I thought it was the record. I opened it but found a letter and a set of pictures. Here they are," said she handing them to Elizabeth. "As you see I am in them. I am lying down on the ground, unconscious and..."

"George Wickham is undressing you." finished Elizabeth.

"Exactly. A photographer who passed by and took those pictures wrote the enclosed letter. He took the pictures and before any harm was done he frightened Wickham. He called the ambulance and after developing the pictures sent them to my brother, so that they could be used against Wickham. My brother did not want it. Wickham was not accused. It seems that Wickham and my brother knew each other from the Academy. I don't know whether Wickham was not pursued because of the old friendship or…"

"I am sure your brother thought only about you."

"Yes, maybe. He still thinks I am unaware of what happened that evening."

There was silence and suddenly Elizabeth started crying.

"I know how you must feel. Wickham deceived you."

"It's not that!"

"I know you loved him," comforted her Georgiana.

"No! No! Georgiana what is your brother's name?"

Georgiana looked at her nervously:

"Why do you ask?"

"Just tell me, please."

"William Jeffrey Darcy," said she with hesitation

"Oh dear God! What am I to do now? I lll-lost him," sobbed she.

"Whom?"

"Your brother!"

Georgiana was startled but then began to comprehend.

"Lizzy, you are the woman he loves so dearly and treated so meanly. The e-mail!"

"You know?"

"Yes, he told me but never revealed your name! He was blackmailed and didn't want to ruin your career or his so he wrote the e-mail."

"So Charlotte was right!"

"Charlotte?"

"Yes, she told me he had to be blackmailed but I didn't want to listen."

"Can you forgive this?" asked Georgiana.

"Yes. I understand, now."

"Then you must see him. You'll work it out together. Come with me."

"I can't. Not today. I have to think about it."

"There is nothing to think about."

"And what if I'll destroy his career?"

"He doesn't care for it if he can't be with you. Come."

"No, not today. I'll see him tomorrow when my mind will be clear."

Georgiana knew there was no point in arguing.

"As you wish. Will you see him at the hospital?"

"Yes. I think it will be best. Don't tell him anything."

"If you want. I have to be going. It's almost midnight. Call me tomorrow."

"All right. I'll get a taxi for you now. One last question before you go. Why Georgiana Fitzwilliam."

"William lectures at the Academy. I didn't want to be known as his sister so I use my mother's maiden name. You know, no nepotism and so on."

"I see. Good night."

"Good night. See you tomorrow."

With Georgiana gone, Elizabeth knew she had a sleepless night in front of her.

Chapter Eleven

After a sleepless night, Lizzy made a decision. She decided to go to William and apologise to him for the way she treated him. Nevertheless she was going to remind him how badly he treated her. She knew that they had a lot to talk about. Elizabeth went out before Jane woke up.

At eleven o'clock she entered his office in the hospital but was told that he had an emergency case and was due to be back in some twenty minutes. Elizabeth went to fetch herself some coffee. On the way back, she met Caroline Bingley and before she could greet her, she heard:

"Eliza, what are you doing here?"

"Drinking coffee." came the reply.

"Very funny, but you won't fool me. I know why you came here. You came to see Darcy!"

"I'll be blunt, now. It's none of your business."

"And here you are wrong. I know you want him but you won't get him. He is mine. If I ever see you again within three miles of him, I'll destroy his career. I'll tell everyone about his relationship with a student. Guess what will happen?" laughed Caroline.

Elizabeth looked at her and said:

"Is that your idea of love? You would destroy the man you love just because you want him for yourself?"

"Don't play an idiot with me! It's pure business. Feelings are not recommended while negotiating a good contract."

"You are pathetic, Caroline." and she went away nonetheless hearing Caroline laugh.

Elizabeth sat down on the first chair she found. She clearly saw that Caroline was determined to get Darcy for herself and would do everything to have him, including his destruction on professional grounds. As she was sitting there, she realise she couldn't let it happen. She understood she loved him with all her heart. Her heart, her soul, her body were screaming: "I love you and I want to be with you, William," at the same time she knew she had to protect him. Suddenly she knew exactly how to act. She went to his office and having been informed he was back, she knocked on the door.

"Come in," said his familiar voice.

He turned to see who it was and gasped:

"Elizabeth!"

"Good morning, William. I believe we need to talk."

"Yes. Please, sit down"

"William, I know the truth," began she, and he looked surprised. "I know you were blackmailed and that you wanted to protect me. I also know that in the hospital, on Sunday, after the ball, you tried to tell me about Wickham's true character. I…"

"Did he do anything to you?"

"No…"

"Oh, Elizabeth, my love. I missed you so much. I can explain everything. I am so sorry about that awful e-mail…"

"William, stop. Let me finish." He calmed down enough to let her speak. "However I can allow neither you nor myself to engage into a relationship which would kill us both."

"What are you saying?"

"I don't love you and you don't love me."

"What? What do you know about my feelings? I can't live without you."

She stared at the floor and said nothing. He kneeled in front of her.

"Elizabeth, look into my eyes and repeat it."

Tears came to her eyes but she lifted her head and did as she was asked.

"It's not true. You are lying!" cried he "I can see it in your eyes. You love me and you know that I love you, too. You can see it! Don't deny it!"

Elizabeth couldn't speak. He was holding her face in his hands. He looked at her so intensely that she dared not return his glance. She felt she was being pulled towards him. She couldn't move. She closed her eyes and then she felt his lips pressing against hers. How she longed for that kiss! She now knew it was what she felt was missing in her dreams - reality. She needed his body next to hers, his warmth and force. Had she been listening to her heart, all the good reasons for ending this relationship would disappear but she remembered that heart wasn't the best of advisors and that her objective was to save him. She broke the kiss abruptly, pushed him away, stood up, crying:

"William, it's over," and ran away.

As she was running through the corridor she hasn't noticed Caroline Bingley standing behind the corner with a triumphant smile. Elizabeth knew only that she had to run way from him and everything that reminded her of him.

Meanwhile, Darcy regained control over his body and set out to run after her when Caroline Bingley stopped him:

"William, where…"

"I don't have time, now!"

"I know, you are running after your Elizabeth. It won't do."

"What are you saying?"

"This little upstart isn't for you. You need a woman who can take care of you."

"Let me take care of myself."

"Caroline, where were you? You were supposed to pay me three days ago! I had to show your sister Louisa where her place is before she told me where you were!" came a voice known to both Darcy and Caroline.

Chapter Twelve

Caroline was pale and Darcy shocked. The voice belonged to a man they both knew - George Wickham. As he was walking down the corridor Wickham could see Caroline but not Darcy who was hidden behind the corner. When Wickham appeared around the corner and saw Darcy, he almost fainted. Neither of the three envisioned such a meeting. Caroline was glancing at both men who were standing opposite to each other. There was hate in their eyes.

Darcy was beginning to connect facts. Thoughts were flashing through his mind. "Caroline was the brain of the plot. She blackmailed me and hired Wickham to show interest in Elizabeth so that I would be devastated. She succeeded in that and today she came here to play the good, caring person so that I could be fooled and maybe marry her. Here however her plan failed. She met Elizabeth. She thought she failed to blackmail me so she blackmailed Elizabeth. She told her my career would be over and Elizabeth wanting to protect me, agreed to break our relationship. Seeing Elizabeth running out of my office she thought she could begin the last part of her plan but Wickham showed up."

Suddenly his instinct told him he had to stop playing in Wickham's game. He hit Wickham as hard as he could and the punch aimed at the man's nose was a hit. Wickham fell onto the floor. Darcy looked at Caroline, shook his head but said nothing. He turned back and ran to his car, parked five floors beneath. He was going to Elizabeth's apartment.

Elizabeth reached her flat hoping Jane was not there. She wanted to pack few things, write Jane a short note and leave London. Her plan failed as Jane greeted her at the door.

"Lizzy, I'm the happiest woman on Earth! Charles asked me to marry him and I agreed! Isn't that wonderful?" cried she.

"Yes Jane. I'm very happy for you. But you must excuse me. I have to pack my things an leave that moment."

"By God, what has happened?"

"I have to run from him!"

"Whom?"

"William."

"Lizzy, tell me everything. You were so secretive lately. What is all that mess between you and William about?"

"It's a long story and I don't have time. I must leave. I'll go home, to Hertfordshire. I'll relax and return confident again. Just don't tell anyone where I am."

She turned back and nervously started to pack her things. Ten minutes later she was ready. She kissed Jane good-bye and promised to keep in touch. Jane wanted to drive her to the station but she refused. She ordered a taxi and told the driver to go to Liverpool Street Station. As the taxi turned around the corner, Darcy's Jaguar stopped in front of her house.

Darcy ran up the stairs and knocked on the door. Jane opened it:

"Is Elizabeth at home?" gasped he.

"No, she is not."

"Miss Bennet, Jane, where is she?"

"I'm sorry I can't help you."

"Does it mean you don't know?"

Jane was a poor liar.

"Then it means you can't tell me. Elizabeth asked you not to?"

"Yes," admitted Jane.

"Jane, I must know her whereabouts. Elizabeth thinks she is protecting me by leaving, but since our conversation this morning I found out that she mustn't do it. We can be together now. Please Jane, I must know!"

Jane was silent.

"If you don't tell me you will destroy both your sister and myself."

Finally Jane spoke:

"My sister didn't tell me the particulars about your relationship but she rarely misjudges people. How am I to be sure that you are not deceiving me?"

Darcy looked at her and said:

"If I tell you in fifteen minutes what happened between us and you will believe me, will you tell me where she is?"

Jane considered what he said for a while and answered:

"Your time starts now."

"It all started back in the Academy. George Wickham was my fellow student. I knew he had exam tests early, but I did not mind it. It wasn't my business. He offered them 25 pounds per copy. We had a friend who hated medicine but he was pressed to study it by his family. They wanted to have a doctor among them. He wanted to be an artist but at the same time he didn't want to disappoint his family. Therefore he used to buy the tests from Wickham. Once, he didn't have money and Wickham didn't want to give him the test for free. Anthony, that was his name, came to me and asked if I could help him with the material. I agreed and he passed the test. From then on he stopped buying test from Wickham and began learning. Wickham was furious. He blamed me for destroying his business, as there were less and less people who bought the tests. One day Wickham was caught and suspended. I went to the dean and asked him to give Wickham one more chance. I believe I must have been persuasive because he was allowed it. I asked the professors never to mention that I was connected with it. They never had. Our paths, mine and Wickham's, parted and then they crossed again two years ago in dramatic circumstances."

It took Darcy half an hour to explain everything but Jane did not interrupt him. She was so moved and shocked at the same time that she told him Lizzy's whereabouts.

Darcy ran to his car determined to arrive at Meryton Railway Station before Elizabeth.

At first Jane hadn't fully realised Caroline's part in it. When she began to comprehend that her future sister was trying to destroy her true one, she cracked. Thankfully, Charles arrived just a few minutes afterwards and was able to comfort her. On hearing about his sister's actions he was determined to break any connections with her, and soon Jane had to convince him he shouldn't be that severe. She claimed a woman violently in love could do such things. Yet, Charles had not changed his mind, on the grounds that Caroline never loved Darcy. She just wanted his money and social status.

Meanwhile both Darcy and Elizabeth were on their way to meet destiny.

Chapter Thirteen

Darcy arrived at Meryton Railway Station five minutes before the scheduled arrival of the train. He stood on the platform waiting for it.

As the train arrived, Darcy started to look for Elizabeth. He saw her descending from the last compartment. She looked sad and was wearing sunglasses although there was no sun. Throughout the journey Elizabeth was thinking of Darcy. She cried, mourning her lost love. Whenever she closed her eyes she saw him, kneeling in front of her. His warm, strong hands touching her cheeks and caressing the shapes of her face. And now she was never to see him again. There was nothing that could prevent her from crying. Not even the thought that she was doing it for him. She knew he loved her, she saw love in his eyes and she was aware she was giving him pain. Her heart was racing towards London but her body was trapped in the train and even if she wanted to return she could not. She knew she couldn't let herself do it. She remembered what Georgiana told her, that William no longer cared for his career. She knew, however, it wouldn't last that way. If she let him give up his career for her, she would destroy him and he would finally begin to hate her. He was a doctor, was made to be one. He wanted to save lives and he couldn't live without it.

The train arrived at Meryton. Elizabeth put the sunglasses on and got off the train. She was walking slowly staring onto the ground. She hasn't noticed a man running towards her.

"Elizabeth!" cried he.

"William! What are you doing here? How did you know? You mustn't be here! I can't let you!"

"Shhh! Darling! Jane told me."

"She shouldn't have. William, go away, please. I don't want to blame myself for the rest of my life."

"There is no need for that. It's going to be all right, now."

He was holding her. She tried to break free but his powerful hands kept her so tight that she couldn't breathe. She fought with all the force she could gather but he overpowered her with his kisses. She felt she could fight no more and sobbed while he kisses every bit of her face and all her good reasons disappeared. When she calmed a little, he said:

"Elizabeth, I will tell you everything. We'll go to the pub down the road."

He placed his arm around her shoulder and took her suitcase. They went down the stairs and on the way to the pub, put Elizabeth's suitcase into the back of Darcy's car.

They sat down in the far end corner of the pub and he told her how he met Caroline and how Wickham accosted them. He told her that Wickham worked for Caroline. Elizabeth listened, sobbed, and he was reassuring her, promising that there was nothing to worry about.

"Caroline will do us no harm, now. She knows that if I tell anyone what she did, she will be in trouble. We could even sue her to court."

"No, William. We can't. She will be Jane's sister-in-law."

"Who?"

"Of course, you don't know. Jane and Charles Bingley are getting married."

"I am so happy for them. I've noticed earlier he was in love with her," cried he and after a while said seriously: "Lizzy, will you marry me?"

She looked at him and the expression of her eyes conveyed the answer he wanted to receive.

Three months later, there was a double wedding in the Meryton church. Jane Bennet was united with Charles Bingley and William Darcy with his beloved Elizabeth. Although Mrs. Bennet wanted to have the whole of Meryton and half of London present at her daughters' wedding, she was finally convinced by her family that a smaller number of guests would suffice. From Darcy's side there were only Georgiana and Darcy's mother's brother family. As for Bingley's family the "great absent" was Caroline Bingley with whom the rest of the family broke any contacts. Even her dear sister, Louisa, didn't want to talk with her anymore after Wickham "showed her, her place".

Epilogue

Three years later; November 20th

Darcy returned home from the hospital earlier than usual. He resigned from his post at the Academy, so that his wife could finish her studies, and she graduated just two weeks ago, managing to complete her studies before their first child was born. She was scheduled for November 17th but the child hasn't still arrived. On entering the house, Darcy called:

"Darling, where are you?"

"In the library." came the answer.

"Can you imagine that there are two very interesting news items that I have heard today?"

"What is it?" asked his wife seeing he was behaving unlike himself.

"First, Jane gave birth to a baby girl today in the US."

"But it's too early."

"I know but both the mother and the child feel good."

"That's wonderful. How I wish our child was born. It's already Jane's second baby."

"The time will come. It always does. Don't you want to hear the other news?"

"Is it even better?"

"As the Germans say: jein."

"What is it then?"

"I have been always curious how Caroline and Wickham met and I now know."

"Really?"

"It seems Caroline met him on some charity event in Newcastle and she was quite taken aback with him. She convinced him he should help her achieve a certain goal and the goal was I. Wickham didn't like Caroline and would not help her, had he not heard that I was the object of her scheme. He thought that having me married to her would be a severe punishment for me and in that I agree with him. He said then he would help her for five thousand pounds."

"How do you know it all?"

"I have read it in Daily Mail today."

"But why is it interesting for newspapers?"

"It seems that Wickham is charged with defrauding St. Anne's Hospital of money, and that Caroline was connected with it and would probably be asked to testify against him. Before she learned about the charges against him, he convinced her he was in love with her and that he wanted to marry her and… surprise, surprise, she agreed. They were married on Friday and on Monday came a call to the court for her. She was furious that he deceived her and wanted divorce but he said she wouldn't have it because he would then tell the police of her actions towards us."

"It was all written in the paper?"

"No names of course but it's not the end yet. She was so furious she hit him with a baseball bat and run away."

"Is he dead?"

"No, he survived and told the police about Caroline. They are now both charged; Wickham with fraud and leading to marriage under error and Caroline with blackmail."

"They will call us to testify."

"They have already had but I refused. Do you think I did right?"

"I was hoping you refused. I think she was punished already."

"Yes, however I don't think we will be able to escape the testimony. I contacted the lawyer and he says they can force us to go to court."

"I hope it won't happen."

"There is nothing to worry about as yet. I hope that Georgiana's case won't come up during the trial."

"I am sure it won't. However I think there is someone who wants to come to this world."

"Dear, are you saying we must go to the clinic?"

"That's where children are usually born."

November 21st; 5:55 a.m.

"Mr. Darcy, I believe you have two most beautiful babies. They are as healthy as their mother." said the nurse on coming into the room where Darcy and Georgiana were waiting. Georgiana was doing her fourth year at the Academy and still looking for her one and only love. Elizabeth insisted that Darcy shouldn't be with her during the labour. She claimed he would disturb both her and the doctors by giving them constant advise.

"Two!?"

"Yes. Mrs. Darcy had just given birth to a boy and a girl. You can see them if you come with me."

She led them to the room where the children were sleeping. The moment he saw them for the first time, was the happiest one of his life. The only comparison was the feeling he experienced when he woke up the first morning of his marriage to Elizabeth and found her sleeping peacefully in his arms. He felt he was happy.

The End