Beginning, Section II
Jump to new as of December 24, 1998
Jump to new as of December 26, 1998
Jump to new as of December 30, 1998
Part XI
Lizzy stuffed the final shirts into her travel bag, and wrenched the zip closed with something of a flourish. There!
Her taxi ride to the airport would be here at any moment, so she heaved the bag up and dumped it by the door, then returned to her room for a final check to make sure she had everything she would need on her holiday. Her aunt and uncle were taking her on what they laughingly called a 'Magical Mystery Tour', and refused to give her any hints about their destination.
"You'll enjoy it all the more if it is a surprise, Lizzy dear." Aunt Maddy had told her, smiling at her niece's eager curiousity. Lizzy hadn't really minded. She was just so pleased to be getting away from the flat, from her everyday routine, and from - - but it was easier not think of that. When Maddy and Edward had mentioned a holiday, she decided it was just what she needed and agreed on the spot to accompany them. Jane had been invited too, but she declined gracefully. Lizzy winked at her aunt, and sent Jane a knowing look. Jane had blushed, and denied nothing.
A horn sounded outside, startling Lizzy out of her reverie. She made a move to leave, stopped, then sighed and gave in. Rushing back into the room, she pulled open a drawer and reached under the clothes till her fingers brushed well-worn paper. Shaking her head in wonder at her own inexplicable behaviour, she slipped the letter into her pocket, and left the room.
Author's note: I've tried to be non-specific about what country this story is set in, although some Australian influences have probably seeped in here and there. Taking some artistic license, this 'Pemberley' is a mansion by the sea, because living on Queensland's Gold Coast, that's the kind of affluence I can most easily picture.
"Pemberley!? Oh, God. Oh no, we can't!"
Both Maddy and Edward looked up from their breakfast in surprise. "We thought you'd like the idea, Lizzy," said Edward wonderingly. "You've loved the other historical houses we've visited. Pemberley is rumoured to be the oldest and finest of all. Surely you wouldn't come all the way to Derbie and not see it?"
"Oh, but there's plenty of other things I could do. I could go down to the beach and swim, or explore, or ... "
"Pemberley is right on the beach, you know. I've long been acquainted with Judith Reynolds - she keeps house while the family are absent - and I'm sure she wouldn't mind if you wanted to swim there. The Darcys are the richest family for miles around you know - they own huge tracts of prime beach-front real estate, not to mention plots of native forest and heritage wilderness. In short, some of the most beautiful scenery to be found anywhere. I'm told the sea-views are quite breathtaking."
Lizzy had to admit that it sounded wonderful. And though she was trying to avoid acknowledging the feeling, she was eaten up with curiosity. Not just to see what it was she had turned down, but she was loathe to pass up a chance which just might give her some insight into the true character of the enigmatic Will Darcy. She remembered the letter she was still carrying with her - (it was never far from her thoughts) - and blushed very faintly.
She bit her lower lip for a moment, then asked carefully, "Wouldn't we be disturbing the Darcy family if we just turned up? There is nothing odd about looking over a house which is specially run to accommodate inquisitive tourists, but it does seem very strange to be touring someone's private home."
"Oh, Mrs. Reynolds explained all that to me. Apparently the Darcys have no objection to small, guided groups of tourists looking over the grounds and the exterior of the mansion while they themselves are away from home."
"Then the family is away from home?"
"Yes, that was the impression Mrs. Reynolds gave. Will you come see it, Lizzy?"
Lizzy grinned at her aunt. "Why not?"
Lizzy slipped off her shoes and made her way, barefoot, over the hot sand. She reached the water's edge and delighted in the feel of the cool, wet sand between her toes. Her eyes drifted over the sweeping coastline, taking in the long stretches of deserted beach, sparkling blue lagoon and rugged headland. Beautiful, she murmured, and threw her head back to breathe in the fresh sea air and feel the salty breeze whip through her hair. She closed her eyes and flung her arms wide to embrace the wind.
Coincidentally enough, someone else was thinking the exact same thing, only they weren't looking at the scenery. Surfacing from under a wave, a few metres from the shore, Darcy shook the water from his hair and wiped the water from his eyes. He opened them and promptly decided he'd been out in the sun too long. Like a vision projected from his fantasies, Elizabeth Bennet stood before him - not four metres away. Her eyes were closed and her face was glowing with life and beauty as though lit from within. Her hair blew around her like a halo, and her lips were curved in a tiny secret smile which made his heart thunder.
As though she sensed his stare, her eyes flickered open. For a moment she simply gazed open-mouthed, then she went pale, and just as quickly blushed. Her eyes swept over his bared chest and took in his whole body, before embarrassment forced her to look away again. My GOD, I never knew he looked like THAT... Her pulse rate soared, and blushed an even deeper shade of pink as she tried to check her improper thoughts. What must he think of me?
In actual fact, Darcy wasn't really thinking anything remotely coherent. Elizabeth... Here .... God, she's beautiful... Elizabeth is at Pemberley... Say something ... Anything ... I love you ... NO, not that!
"Uh, Miss Bennet," Fool! Since when have you called her Miss Bennet? You'll only make her feel more estranged! "Um, Elizabeth..." Oh, charming! That did sound suave and sophisticated! "So what brings you to Pemberley?" Pitiful, Will, pitiful! Oh, God, but she's beautiful.
Lizzy, however, was in no state to be critical of his lack of lingual dexterity. She stumbled and stammered out a reply, struggling not to notice the way the sun reflected on his wet skin. Half of her wanted to reach out and touch - to feel those firm muscles shifting under her palm, to feel that strong arm winding around her waist... And the other half was shocked and confused by such traitorous desires when all she wanted to do was to curl up and die with mortification. You had your chance, Elizabeth Bennet! He has every right to despise you, after what you said to him! Now he comes back from a swim to find you strolling around his property! What is he supposed to think? That you've thrown yourself back into his path, that's what! No doubt he hates the sight of you now!
"I - we understood that the family was away from home... I didn't know... That is to say, I don't want you to think... I mean - "
Will tried to reassure her. "My sister is away, and I don't go out much, so Mrs. Reynolds... I mean, I've been home since - since - " Lizzy looked away, overwhelmed by guilt. She remembered what Jimmy had told her: He's going through hell... It was awful, just awful... Well, if he looked this good after coming through hell... She clamped down on the inappropriate thought.
"Anyway, do not concern yourself on that account." Will finished. Elizabeth thought: Why is he being so polite about it? This is NOT the Will Darcy I remember.
There was a heavy pause. Electricity seemed to crackle back and forth between them. Then Will said, "So, what do you think of Pemberley?"
For a moment Lizzy thought she was on safe ground, and answered him with genuine enthusiasm. Then she realised how her response might be mistakenly construed, and faltered once more.
Both in something of a daze, they found they were making their way up the beach toward the house. As they reached the grass, Will stopped to pick up a towel, which Lizzy had not seen on her way to the water's edge. He tied it quickly around his waist, then turned to face Lizzy again. She was bent over, collecting her sandals, one of which lay at his feet. He stooped to pick it up for her, at the same moment as she reached for it. They both looked up and froze.
His face was mere centimetres from hers. She could feel his breath on her lips, and the blood was pounding in her ears. Suddenly her mouth was literally aching to touch his. Just kiss me, dammit! Kiss me! The words were so loud in her head, and she prayed she hadn't spoken them aloud. She didn't really know what she was doing now - she had slipped beyond her own control.
Dizzy with craving, she felt herself leaning a little closer...
"Elizabeth!" The shouting voice shattered the moment, and they both jerked apart, straightening up quickly like guilty children. Lizzy recognised the tone as that of her Aunt, but Maddy was not actually within sight.
Every one of Darcy's senses were reeling. He realised he was still holding her shoe. He thrust it at her, blindly. "Please excuse me," he managed hoarsely, and casting her one stricken glance, he left her side and disappeared.
Part XII
Lizzy watched him go, utterly distraught and with no idea what she ought to do about it. Maddy called again, and then caught sight of her niece standing alone on the fringes of the garden. As she approached, she was surprised to see that Lizzy was surreptitiously blinking away tears.
"Why Lizzy, sweetheart, what on earth is the matter?"
"I - nothing - I just - well ... " Lizzy gave up, and threw her arms around her astonished relative's neck, wailing, "Oh, Aunt Maddy, I don't know what to do!"
Madeleine patted her back soothingly, murmuring, "That's OK, honey, don't cry now, just tell what's wrong and we'll fix it all up. There now." Aware that she was being comforted in the same way that Maddy consoled her three-year-old, Lizzy was a little embarrassed by her childish outburst. She tried to compose herself as she hiccuped out an excuse. How could she explain the way she felt about Will Darcy? She didn't know herself.
She knew her Aunt didn't really believe her, but thankfully, Maddy did not insist on further explanations, and offered to cut the tour short so that Lizzy could go and lie down for a while. Lizzy hesitated, then assented, and wiped away a few errant tears.
What am I crying for? She asked herself, crossly. So what if he doesn't love me any more? I never sought his good opinion! But in her heart of hearts she knew that despite all her railing against him, she had always been trying to impress him... and she knew that she now cared more than ever.
They made their way back toward the car, and met up with Edward, who was returning from his perusal of the western grounds. Maddy explained that they would be leaving early, and he agreed.
Lizzy reached out to place a hand on the car door-handle, when, for the second time that afternoon, she was stopped dead by a voice calling her name.
"Elizabeth!"
She turned, her heart fluttering uncontrollably with hope and surprise. Will was making his way hastily down the steps, dressed simply and casually in faded jeans and a white linen shirt. His dark curls were still tousled and damp from his swim. In short, he looked heart-stopping.
"Please forgive me if I was rude just before... You are not leaving?" She was amazed at the contrast - just moments ago he was stumbling and stammering, now he seemed perfectly cool and collected. She wished she could say the same for herself. She saw her Aunt peering questioningly at her.
"I - we were... I think we must."
His composure faltered for a moment. I must not let her go... Not again... She must see that I have changed... She must see that I still love her! Oh, Lizzy, am I worthy of you yet? Will I ever be worthy of you?
"But will you not introduce me to your friends?" He inquired hopefully.
That brought Lizzy back to earth a little. I wonder what he will do when he realises that these are the very relations he considered it beneath him to connect himself to! She watched his countenance carefully as she murmured, "Certainly. This is Edward Gardiner, and his wife, Madeleine Gardiner. Edward is my Uncle, on my mother's side."
Will did not falter for a moment as he smiled at the couple, and shook their hands. "Delighted to meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. I hear you are staying in Lambton..."
Lizzy was quite astonished as he proceeded to chat easily and agreeably with her aunt and uncle. He charmed Maddy in five minutes when he spoke warmly of her home-town, and won Edward by discussing knowledgeably the best fishing spots along the headland. Seizing upon this interest, he invited the party to take a walk with him up to the headland now.
Madeleine started to make their excuses, on behalf of Lizzy's earlier distress, but when Lizzy blushed and interrupted her, she just smiled knowingly and retracted her objections.
Will, who had looked concerned for the moment of uncertainly, flashed her a grateful grin which made her wonder how her niece could ever have described him as even remotely disagreeable.
And so it was that Lizzy and Will found themselves on the beach once more, falling further and further behind Edward and Madeleine.
"So, does Pemberley meet with your approval?"
Lizzy sensed that this question held quite a lot of weight. "Yes, of course. I believe there must be very few who would not approve."
"Ah, but your approval is difficult to obtain. Therefore it is more worth the earning." Do you see what I am saying to you, Lizzy? That your approval is something I am still striving to earn?
"Thank you. You are certainly assured of my approval. It is a truly beautiful estate." Does he mean he still cares for me, after all that I said to him? Or is he simply conversing as an amiable but indifferent acquaintance? Do I read too much into what he says?
Walking slowly along a beautiful beach with the woman of his dreams strolling beside him, Will was having great difficulty in keeping his mind on polite conversation. The wind had loosened Lizzy's hair, and escaped curls framed her face. He was fascinated by the tiny movements of her eyebrows and the shifting expressions in her dark eyes. The gusting breeze flattened her clothes against her body, and very soon, he was going to be incapable of any thought at all.
Forcing his gaze away, he cleared his throat determinedly and said, "You know, my sister, Georgiana, will be arriving here tomorrow. She comes home every weekend she can spare. And... if you are at all interested, I know that she would very much like to meet you." This was not exactly true. As far as Will knew, Georgiana knew nothing about Elizabeth Bennet, because he had never told her. Actually, he would have been surprised to learn how much his sister had already guessed. But he did feel that it was a safe bet his sister would want to meet the woman he was determined to marry.
For a moment, Lizzy was flustered by his request. What could such an offer imply? Then, in a sudden moment of clarity, she realised that if she refused him, then she would leave Pemberley today and probably never see him again. The thought was disproportionately horrifying to her. She spoke hurriedly, but with much conviction - "I would love to meet your sister, Will."
It was the first time she had ever called him directly by his first name. His heart swelled in sudden hope, and he smiled warmly at her in thanks.
Lizzy's heart skipped a dozen beats. Oh, what a terrible cliché, she thought to herself. "He smiles and my heart stops..." But I never appreciated the truth in it until now. She was smiling secretly to herself when Will remembered -
"Oh... I think Caroline might be coming too."
Lizzy's smile faded. "Ah. Well, Caroline is very..." She groped for a word.
"Painful!" Will supplied, with a roll of the eyes, and Lizzy laughed. It was the most wonderful sound he had ever heard.
He snuck another look at the woman walking beside him. Her eyes were bright with humour, and her cheeks were flushed prettily. Suddenly he was consumed by an overwhelming urge to kiss her.
Lizzy caught the look in his eyes, and unconsciously stopped walking. He's going to kiss me! Her heart cried jubilantly, without waiting for any input from her head.
"Elizabeth..." He stepped closer. She raised her face expectantly. "I - "
STOP! Screamed his thoughts, She's only been here half-an-hour! You can't expect her to have swung from hating you to welcoming you in half-an-hour! You've been given this second chance, so for God's sake don't screw it up now by just dragging her into your arms and expecting that this time, everything's going to work out right!
Confused, he stumbled backward again. "I... I believe your aunt and uncle are waiting for us." He mumbled, unable to meet her gaze.
If he had managed to lift his gaze, he would have witnessed the disappointment and confusion which were stamped clearly over her features. Why didn't he kiss me? He was going to, I'm sure of it. Why did he pull away? If he still loved me, he would have kissed me, surely. Perhaps he is feels lust now - and that he is fighting against. He doesn't want anything more to do with me. But why would he have asked me to meet his sister? Wait, he just said that his sister wanted to meet me. God knows why. Perhaps he was just arranging that meeting for her. Lord, why now? Just when I was beginning to - - OH why can't anything ever be simple for me!
They had reached the headland now, and Maddy and Edward had indeed stopped to wait for them, but their attention was focused on the scenery before them, and they were oblivious to the scene which had just taken place behind them. As they approached, Maddy claimed Lizzy in conversation, and Edward fell into discussion with Will.
The party turned and made their way back to Pemberley, with very little opportunity for private conversation between the two who had the most to say. Given their respective emotional states, however, they would probably not have said it anyway, so there was very little was lost.
All too soon, Lizzy found herself climbing into the back seat of Edward's car. As they pulled away, she felt an unfamiliar wrenching pain. She could not resist turning back for one last look. Will stood stiffly, watching them leave with his hands clasped behind his back. His lack of emotion cut her. For a moment she had to fight back tears, but luckily, her more practical side took over, and she substituted despair for something more useful - determination.
As Pemberley and its Master slipped out of sight behind her, Lizzy was already forming her resolve.
It was quite a simple resolve, really. Lizzy repeated it to herself as she applied the finishing touches to her make-up.
Will Darcy wanted me once. I can make him want me again.
Over the past twenty-four hours, Lizzy had forced herself through a lot of painful soul-searching. Emotional issues that she's avoided for weeks were finally brought out and confronted.
She'd been surprised and disappointed to discover just how fickle she had been, but that could not longer be helped.
Will Darcy had loved her, but she had hurt him cruelly. Now somewhere in the intervening tumult, she had managed to fall in love with Will Darcy. How? and When? were questions she had no answers to, but the basic fact was something she could not longer deny to herself.
The irony of the situation bit her cruelly.
She had also been astonished to discover the true strength of her feelings for Will. Now that he had apparently lost interest in her, she found that there was nothing she wanted more than to be welcomed into his arms. She remembered the desire she had seen in his eyes in the past, and her heart longed to see that fire re-ignited.
There was a voice in her head which begged her to reconsider. What she planned was imprudent, ill-advised, and potentially disastrous. Why couldn't she just accept that he now longer felt anything for her, and back out gracefully? But Elizabeth Bennet had never been the type of girl to love softly, or retreat quietly to nurse a broken heart. When she loved, she loved passionately and completely, and she was more than willing to fight for what she felt.
Unsurprisingly, the voice of prudence was overruled by a deeper, more fundamental need. And that need was Will Darcy.
Lizzy knew she was risking everything tonight. But she had little choice. She checked the clock. One hour to go.
Part XIII
Looking up at the brightly lit mansion, Lizzy tried to calm the butterflies in her stomach as she smoothed her dress nervously. Their invitation to "Dinner at Pemberley" had hinted at formality. She felt that her classic black dress could not possibly offend in that respect. It was the most expensive piece of clothing she owned, but from the moment she had tried it on, she had known she had to have it. It was full length, with a simple neckline and a low back, but when she moved it just seemed to cling in all the right places, creating a confusing double-image that was at the same time modest and sensuous.
To the surprise of the whole party, they were met at the door by a sombre-looking butler, who greeted them and led them through an inordinate number of rooms and corridors. All were beautifully furnished in a style which suggested taste and affluence without extravagance, but Lizzy was hardly aware. With every step, she could feel her apprehension mounting.
They finally came to a stop, and the butler inducted them into a warmly-lit drawing room, where their hosts were waiting.
Will and Georgiana leapt up as soon as their guests entered the room, but Georgiana found she had to supply her brother with a gentle nudge to ensure that the introductions were given on cue. She could understand her brother's reaction, however - the young brunette woman was quite stunning.
To her surprise, she found herself warming to the woman after just a few minutes of conversation. She hadn't really expected to get along with the person who had caused her beloved brother so much heartache, but Elizabeth Bennet had turned out to be friendly and charming in every respect. Yes, she could see why he was so utterly in love with her. As soon as she got the chance, she sought Will out, and murmured, "Marry her Will, she's lovely."
Will looked at his sister in shock. She smiled serenely and patted his hand affectionately, before returning to her guests, leaving him to wonder at the transparency of his feelings - or the astuteness of his sister.
"So, Eliza." By now they were all seated around the dinner table, and Caroline, having sulked silently for the first part of the evening, suddenly decided that the conversation needed her input. "I was so delighted when Will told me you were coming over this evening. But then, he's just so generous when it comes to showing kindness to the less-financially-advantaged."
Will and Georgiana exchanged horrified looks, but Lizzy was laughing. "He is indeed, Caroline. I'm sure we wouldn't have known where our next meal was coming from if we hadn't been invited to dine here. But you do not give him credit for the full extent of his generosity. Desperate single women do not find a ready welcome everywhere you know."
She bit back her smile as she watched Caroline furrow her brow in confusion, trying to figure out which one of them Lizzy had insulted. Had she meant Caroline or herself?
Will hid his grin in his wine glass. A moment later, the butler appeared at his elbow and spoke a few quiet words in his ear. Will nodded slightly, then turned to his guests. "Please excuse me, but there's a phone call I really should take. I'll be back very soon." He glanced at Georgiana to indicate that she was to play hostess on her own for a few minutes, then left the room.
Well, this is my chance, Lizzy thought, and I'm not likely to get another. She hid her hands beneath the table-cloth to hide their trembling.
Allowing a few moments to pass, so as not to raise suspicion, she excused herself to the bathroom. Georgiana gave her brief directions, and Lizzy nodded understandingly as though she were actually listening. She escaped into the hall-way, then realised her dilemma. How was she ever to find Will in this maze of a house?
She jumped as that butler materialised silently at her side. "Ma'am?"
She was flustered, like a child caught stealing cookies before dinner. She quickly gave up on pretense. "Please, I have to find Mr. Darcy. I have to. Will you take me to him? Please?"
She held her breath as the man regarded her carefully, as though judging her worth. At last he nodded, and set off down yet another corridor. Lizzy released the breath she had been holding, and followed him eagerly.
They arrived outside a large oak door. From the other side, Lizzy could hear a familiar voice making the occasional brisk comment. She grinned. It seemed to be a rather one-sided conversation. She turned to thank the butler, but the eerily silent man had disappeared again. Never mind.
She placed her hand on the door handle, hesitated, then squared her shoulders and pushed the door open.
This was it.
Part XIV
The sight of Will seated behind his large mahogany desk set her pulse racing as she closed the door behind her. He had not seen her come in.
She approached him silently, with every nerve tingling in nervous anticipation. Her movement caught his eye, and he threw her a look loaded with surprise and inquiry, at the same time reasoning fruitlessly with a rather frustratingly irate investor on the other end of the line.
In response to his look, she raised one eyebrow cheekily, and to his very evident shock, seated herself comfortably on the desk directly in front of him. She crossed her legs suggestively, letting the long split of her skirt fall open. Now it was her eyes which held the question. She couldn't hide a tiny smile as she watched his gaze take all this in, and saw him swallow hard. Yet he still made no move on her - he hadn't even put the phone down. Was he so determined to resist? Well, she was by no means ready to give up. In fact, she had hardly even started.
Eyeing him seductively, she slipped smoothly off the desk and into his lap. To her delight, his voice buckled suddenly, and she could hear the man on the phone pause in his tirade, then demand to know what was going on. Ignoring him, she took Will's free hand in hers, and placed it firmly on the small of her back. Mesmerised, Will seemed to have forgotten the phone call - and everything else in the world, for that matter. The receiver was still swarking furiously at them, and Lizzy eased it from his unresisting fingers and placed it behind her.
She took his newly-freed hand, and looked questioningly into his eyes as she placed a slow, sensuous kiss on the centre of his palm. She felt him whole body shudder beneath her, and the hand on her back strained her closer as she lowered her head to kiss him full on the lips.
Suddenly there was no more restraint. Releasing a low moan, Will lost all semblance of control as months of restrained passion were unleashed. Lizzy surrendered immediately to the force of his desire. His hands moved over her body with an electrifying effect, and his mouth enveloped hers in a searing bond which made her feel as though her veins were pumping hot liquid gold.
The kiss went on and on. When Will finally broke the lock, it was only to trace fervent kisses along her jaw and down her neck. Lizzy threw her back her head in delirious abandon, burying her hands in his hair and pressing her body even closer against his. Their passion had begun with an explosion, but it just kept on building as they moved frantically against one another.
If they had not been seated in Will's desk chair, which could only support a passionate couple up to a certain level of amorous activity before becoming decidedly inadequate, they would never have stopped at all.
It was Lizzy who finally realised this, and with great reluctance, she leaned back a little, but Will seemed to understand. With her hands still linked about his neck, Lizzy rested her head on his shoulder while they both struggled to breath at a normal rate once more. She became luxuriously conscious of his arms around her, and the delicious sensation as he gently stroked her back, between her shoulder-blades.
He was the first to speak, his voice still thick with passion, "Tell me I'm not dreaming, Lizzy, tell me I'm not."
She was distracted from her fascination with a small dark curl behind his left ear, and smiled happily at him. "You've never called me Lizzy before."
He placed a fervent kiss amongst the curls atop her head. "I did in my dreams, darling. You were always Lizzy in my dreams."
"You dreamed about me?"
"Constantly!"
Lizzy was silent for a moment. When she spoke, her voice was hesitant. "Will?"
"Mmm?"
"Will, I'm so sorry... for everything. Some of the things I said to you that day - "
Suddenly he stiffened in his chair, and pushed her away from him. For a moment her blood ran cold. She thought he must angry with her again. He had every right to be. He had wanted to forget her, but she had more or less hunted him down and seduced him.
How could she have thought that if she could only get into his arms, she could find some way into his heart? Had she ruined everything now?
Her face reflected fear and shame, and she was afraid to look at him. But instead of pushing her out of the way, as she had half-expected, he only shifted her on his lap so that he could see her face. He caught her chin gently, and forced her to meet his eyes.
"Don't you dare," he whispered fiercely, "Don't you dare start apologising to me. What did you say to me that I didn't deserve? The things I said to you, the way I behaved... I told myself there was no way you would ever forgive me. I don't expect it of you now. All I need is another chance, Lizzy. Will you let me make it up to you?"
It took a moment for her despairing heart to comprehend what he was saying, but as she realised, disbelieving joy overwhelmed her. She let him know her answer very clearly in her kiss.
"Let's make it up to each other, then," she murmured against his lips.
His hands moved up to caress her face and hair and his mouth moved lovingly against hers.
Suddenly Lizzy pulled back and looked at him, wide-eyed with alarm. "Oh no!"
"What is it?"
"The others!"
"God, how long have we been gone!"
"Fifteen minutes at least! How do we explain..." Looking at his disheveled appearance and her own sensing her own loss of composure, the humour of the situation began to affect her. She was grinning, then laughing. Her mirth was immediately infectious. A moment later they were stumbling down the hallway together, hysterical with laughter.
"Why are we laughing?" She managed to get out between giggles.
"I've no idea. I think we should try and look casual - serious."
"Right." They both bit their lips and tried to keep a straight face, but it was hopeless. A moment later they exploded again.
"This isn't right," Lizzy was saying, "I feel drunk but I haven't been drinking! How are we supposed to re-enter that room without announcing to the world that we're in love?"
His smile disappeared, and he looked at her in surprise. "What did you say?"
His sudden sobriety wiped out her mirth. "What do you mean?"
"What you said about... love."
She was confused. "I meant what I said... I - " Oh no! I said we were in love. And I thought - But obviously I was wrong. He doesn't want love any more, all he wants now more of what I tempted him with.
"You what?" His voice was very gentle now, but it was heavy with meaning.
Lizzy forced herself to look up. Her pride was begging her not to confess her love to man who didn't return the sentiment, but her heart won out.
"I love you."
"Oh, Lizzy!" He managed, then pulled her close to him. Standing within the blissful circle of his embrace, the world disappeared. As long as he held her close, she felt that nothing else mattered.
Part XV
Lizzy stood outside the door to the drawing room, and reluctantly placed one hand on the door handle. She shot Will a loaded look, took a deep breath, then turned the knob and pushed the door open. The four people at the dinner table looked up immediately.
Lizzy tried so hard to look casual as they all turned their gazes on her. "I'm sorry I took so long - I got lost." But she was blushing furiously. Lying had never been her forte. Will was little better. He grinned sheepishly, and looked out the window as he hurriedly explained that his phone call had taken longer than expected, and that he had just happened to meet up with Lizzy on the way back to the drawing room.
Georgiana looked from at her brother, then at Lizzy, and back again. As the realisation dawned, she began to grin from ear to ear, and encouraged them to sit down. Maddy and Edward exchanged meaningful looks, and bit back smiles. Caroline narrowed her eyes suspiciously. What's going on here.... Could it be that Will and Eliza - oh no! Surely not! When did she get her hooks in? This could be disastrous!
She observed the couple sharply as the dinner progressed, and every moment that passed seemed to confirm her suspicions still further. When Edward asked for the salt, they both reached for it and when their fingers brushed, Will smiled and Lizzy blushed. Edward had to remind them about the salt.
A minute later, Will and Lizzy were debating with Georgiana and Maddy the role of God in evolution, and Lizzy and Will completed each other's arguments. They smiled delightedly at each other.
There could be no more doubt when the pair began to lose concentration in the middle of sentences, for no apparent reason. Caroline correctly assumed that something 'distracting' was going on under the table.
The situation was intolerable. Something would have to be done.
"Eliza!" Lizzy tried to conceal her irritation at the nickname Caroline took so much delight in using. She had just arrived at Pemberley and was making her way excitedly up the front steps, thrilled with the prospect of seeing Will again. Her mind was brimming with intoxicating memories from the night before.... Will laughing, Will's hands moving over her body, Will smiling into her eyes, Will stroking her hand under the table, Will's parting look... The euphoric happiness she had known the night before had only increased during the hours they had been apart.
She was halted in her step by Caroline's summons. Lizzy turned to see her approaching hurriedly. "Yes, Caroline?" It was hard to keep the impatience out of her voice. Lizzy wondered why she even bothered - after what Jimmy had told her of Caroline's role in separating Jane and Charles, she only maintained politeness through a wish to keep the peace.
"Eliza, I've been meaning to talk to you." Lizzy groaned inwardly. Caroline had reached her, and grasped her arm in a familiar way that Lizzy didn't like at all.
Caroline lowered her voice conspiratorially. "I spent hours awake last night - I've been so worried for you."
Lizzy raised her eyebrows disbelievingly. "You were worried for me? Any particular reason, or just general concern for my well-being?" Caroline ignored the sarcasm.
"Oh, you poor dear. I just don't know how I should explain this to you." She paused for effect. "It was quite apparent last night that you have become somewhat... attached to Will."
Here we go... Lizzy thought impatiently.
"And I just thought that I had a responsibility to let you know..."
"Let me know what, Caroline?"
"Why, that he's... Oh, it's so hard to have to tell you this... Eliza, Will Darcy is engaged. I'm so sorry."
Lizzy looked at her blankly for a few moments.
Caroline took it as a sign that her bombshell had been successful. "I do know how you feel," her voice was dripping with sisterly commiseration, "I was shocked as well when I learned of it. I considered telling you sooner, but - "
She broke off as Lizzy began to laugh. Was the girl hysterical? This was not the reaction she had expected.
"Oh Caroline," Lizzy was saying through her laughter, "That was so beautifully done. You deserved an Oscar, really you did. But you can't possibly have expected me to fall for it. After Jane and Charles? After watching you trying to secure Will's attention with all the determination of a bitch on heat? Please don't insult me by saying that you thought I'd believe you!"
Caroline's jaw dropped, and it took her a moment to collect herself sufficiently to cry: "But it's true! He's engaged to his godmother's daughter - her name's Anne." Actually, she wasn't necessarily lying. It was a widespread rumour. But Lizzy was walking away. Caroline was furious. "You'll be sorry!" She called childishly. "Just wait, you'll be sorry you didn't listen to me!"
Lizzy didn't turn around.
Part XVI
Her knock was answered by the same sombre-looking butler from the night before - the one who had led her to Will. Instead of words, Lizzy grinned widely at her accomplice. He returned her exuberant grin with a very slight smile, and did not wait for instructions. "I believe you will find Mr. Darcy in the music room, Ma'am."
"Ah. The music room. I wonder if you could show me...?" Her voice trailed away as he stepped aside, and her ears caught the faint strains of a piano from the depths of the house. She smiled again at the austere butler. "Thank you."
Trying not to make her eager haste to obvious, she stepped quickly into the grand entry and let the music determine her direction. As she walked, the music became louder minute by minute, but sometimes the marble halls bounced the sound and she became confused. Was it this door? Or that door? No, those rooms were empty. Why did he have to live in such a palace? What could all these rooms possibly be used for? She shook her head wonderingly. Well, as they say - the rich are different.
Finally, Lizzy was certain she had found the right door - the graceful strains sounded closer than ever. As softly as she could, she pushed open the door and slipped into the room. The sight which met her eyes stopped her breath and clenched her stomach. It was a beautiful room, furnished with antique Regency-style furniture - warm and comfortable. But that was not what commanded her attention.
Dominating the room from the corner was a polished wooden grand piano - the only modern adornment. Will sat at the keyboard, eyes closed, absorbed in the soft notes his long artistic fingers coaxed gently from the keys. Morning sunlight poured through the open drapes, illuminating the instrument and the pianist. It was an unspeakably beautiful vision. Golden light played on his skin, and glistened in his dark curls. The serenity of his countenance made Lizzy feel that she could not possibly justify interrupting such an exquisite moment.
Instead, she stood silently by the door and watched him, completely entranced. Every note he struck was heart wrenchingly expressive, and as her eyes traced his features, she was overwhelmed by her love for him.
Too soon, the last haunting chords echoed through the stillness of the room, and faded away. As they were swallowed by the silence, Will lifted his hands from the keyboard and opened his eyes. The sight of Lizzy gazing at him from across the room shattered his serenity, but his joy was not be doubted.
"Lizzy!" He cried delightedly, standing up quickly. The next moment she was in his arms, holding him as though she would never let him go. He laughed quietly in surprise, and stroked her hair affectionately.
"How long have you been standing there?" He asked her, his tone mock-accusatory.
"I'm not sure," she replied truthfully, lifting her face to speak. Time had seemed so irrelevant as she watched him play.
He looked down at her sweet uplifted face, and was unable to resist placing a soft kiss on her lips. He would have liked to do more, but now was not the time. Instead, he took both her hands in his, raised them briefly to his lips, then released her and gestured to the piano. "Do you play?" He inquired.
"A little," she laughed. "I learned long time ago. I'm sure I've forgotten everything. But you! I never knew you could play like that. That was... incredible."
He smiled slightly. "Don't thank me, thank Beethoven. He's the genius who wrote it - Moonlight Sonata. Would you like a lesson?"
She nodded eagerly, and he helped her onto the piano stool before taking a seat next to her. Their bodies were touching ever-so-slightly. Lizzy was acutely conscious of the heat of his body beside her, and of his intoxicating scent. She breathed in deeply, then struggled to concentrate on what Will was saying.
"...quite a simple duet, but it's one of my favourites. I used to play it with Georgiana, a long time ago now. You put your right hand here..." His hand covered hers to show her which keys she had to hit. His closeness was affecting her brain. It took all of her willpower to keep her mind on the piece. Fifteen minutes later she had remembered enough of her childhood piano-lessons to perform a reasonable rendition of her part.
Will seemed very pleased by her progress. "That's great! And you told me you couldn't play."
"I said I hadn't played in a long time," she corrected him, glowing with pride at his praise.
Her perfect form perched so close to his side made him swallow. He tried to restrain himself a little longer, but when she looked up at him with those wonderful eyes, a voice in his brain said "Why?" and he could not resist. He leaned down and covered her lips with his. The sensation of her warm mouth against his inflamed him and the kiss deepened. Her lips parted and she made a tiny noise in her throat which just about shredded his self-control.
Needless to say, it was some time before they emerged from the music room.
Three glorious dream-like days passed. Will and Lizzy spent every spare moment together. Lizzy had never known the kind of love that she felt for Will Darcy - he was in her every thought, he consumed her every waking hour, eclipsing every other rational thought. The days were full of light and joy and laughter and love... and passion.
In spite of this bliss, some darker, more superstitious side of her heart cried that it was too good, too perfect. She imagined waking up to discover it was all a dream. She waited, terrified that the dream was about to change into a nightmare. You're being foolish, she reasoned with herself, You have no reason for you to torment yourself like this. Nothing terrible will happen. You're just scared because you've never been in love like this before.
While she was with Will, nothing in the world could mar her happiness. But whenever she was apart from him, she was overtaken by an inexplicable apprehensive fear which she could not dismiss. Why? Could it be Caroline's threats? Had they upset her more than she had let on? Impossible. Stupid. Caroline had been lying - hadn't she? The thought of Will already engaged - promised to another - sent a cold shaft of fearful jealousy and pain through her heart. Well, she would simply ask Will about "Anne". That fear could be easily allayed.
It was her fifth day in Derby. Her Aunt and Uncle had returned home that morning, after Lizzy had explained that she wished to extend her stay a while longer. They understood perfectly. She thanked them profusely for choosing Derby as their holiday destination, and they left her with their blessings.
That morning, she arrived at Pemberley by taxi, and was directed to the hot-house by a gardener who was fairly sure that Mr. Darcy might be found there. She made her way across the beautifully manicured lawns, eager to be with Will again.
Lizzy stopped, momentarily confused, when she heard voices from behind a hedge. Who... she wondered briefly, then realised it was just two of the maids helping out in the gardens. She was unaccustomed to the idea of servants, but she supposed that in a house the size of Pemberley, it was necessary. She was about to move on when she heard -
"So, do you think she's pregnant?" Lizzy didn't care much for the question, until she heard the other girl reply -
"Who, Anne?" Lizzy's heart went cold. Anne?
"No, not Anne, you twit! The other girl: Elizabeth Bennet. The one who's been around so much lately. The one Mr. Darcy can't keep his hands off."
The second voice was defensive. "Well how am I supposed to know who you're talking about, when everyone knows that it's Anne he's engaged to. I heard from Mrs. de Bourgh's butler that she's already set a wedding date for Anne and Mr. Darcy. So when you say: "do you think she's pregnant," you could have meant either of them."
The blood pounded in Lizzy's head and her ears burned. Her heart cried - It isn't true! It can't be true! I love him! But another part of her said quite calmly - this is it, you knew it was coming. How long did you think it could last?
She remembered Jimmy's words - He was expected to marry 'one of us'... He had the same expectation of himself.... And Caroline's warning - Just you wait - you'll be sorry you didn't listen to me. Her heart wailed - But he loves me! He proposed to me! You did turn him down, though...
"Anyway, you didn't answer my question," the voices continued, "Do you think she's pregnant or not?"
"I dunno. I s'pose she might be. It seems a little early to take a mistress. After all - he's not even married yet."
"Well, p'raps he's getting in early. Really early. Gee, I wonder which one he intends to spend the wedding night with?" The pair dissolved into giggles.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth's fairy-tale world lay in pieces around her feet. Though her heart stubbornly clung to the certainty that it was all lies, her mind had closed itself off to the pleas of her heart. It had caused her too much pain already. The stark facts were before her, and there was no point in pitting them against her naive romantic misconceptions. Shock, fear, hurt pride and the insecurity which had accumulated over the past few days all combined to cloud her brain and confuse her logic. Turning on her heel, she began to run.
She ran from her tangled feelings and her broken heart and she didn't stop running until she was back in Meryton. Her surprised family welcomed her, but without Will, Lizzy felt completely alone. And that is how it will be from now on. She thought sadly.
Lying awake at night, she longed for him body and soul. The pain was almost physical. But he was out of her reach now. It had all happened just as she had feared - the dream was shattered, and the nightmare had begun.
Part XVII
6 Weeks Later
"Well?" Jane looked to her sister for approval. Lizzy shook herself out of her daydreams and turned from the window of the inner-city Bridal Shop to come face-to-face with an angel.
"Oh Jane, it's beautiful! Too beautiful! Charles will pass out at the alter!"
"Lizzy, what a ridiculous thing to say." But Jane was smiling.
"Well I'm afraid I'm still in shock. I turn my back for five minutes and you're getting married! I can't believe I'm losing my big sister."
"You're not losing a sister, silly, you're gaining a brother."
"Just what I've always wanted!" Lizzy forced a smile. "Do you think Charles will pull my hair and steal my CDs? I feel my childhood has been incomplete.
Jane laughed happily, flouncing the creamy tulle of her fairy-tale wedding dress. "I'm so happy! I don't deserve such happiness!" She said, for the seventh time that morning.
Lizzy smiled wryly. Just for a moment she let herself imagine that she was the one trying on bridal gowns. What if she had said 'yes' to Will that day in the restaurant? Would things be different now? She closed her eyes and her heart clenched painfully as she pictured Will entering the room, striding toward her and sweeping her into his arms. His eyes would be bright with love and desire and he would kiss her with that exquisite tenderness she remembered so very clearly...
"...Lizzy?" Lizzy heard her name and realised Jane had been talking to her. Damn, what had she missed?
"Umm... Yes?"
Jane's radiant smile was replaced by a speculative look as she regarded her sister. Turning back to the mirror, she pretended to busy herself with her veil, but she was watching her sister's reflection very carefully when she said, "You do know that Will Darcy will be the best man at the wedding, don't you Lizzy?"
Lizzy's head snapped up, then looked away slowly. "Yes," her voice was unnaturally strained, "I know that."
"It's obvious that you two haven't been on the best of terms lately, " Jane chose her words carefully, "You haven't returned any phone calls and you haven't opened his letters. But I hope you are aware that it's traditional for the bride's maid to dance with the best man?"
"What? No one told me that."
"Well, I was just making sure you were aware of your duties."
Lizzy bit her lip. "Is it absolutely necessary?" She asked in a small voice. The pretense of nonchalance had disappeared.
Jane considered letting her off the hook. She looked so worried... But no. This whole bizarre estrangement had to be resolved. "Yes, Lizzy, it is absolutely necessary." Jane's tone booked no opposition. Lizzy just nodded, miserably.
The morning of the wedding dawned bright and clear.
Lizzy stood in front of the mirror, tugging nervously at her dress. The clinging ivory satin had seemed so perfect last week. Now it seemed that no amount of adjusting would make it sit right.
Madeline Gardiner entered the room silently, unnoticed by her niece.
"Goodness, you're more nervous than the bride," she observed suddenly, and Lizzy jumped. "And a great deal more tense." She added pointedly, seating herself comfortably on the edge of the bed. Lizzy tried to smile, but it looked more like a grimace. Maddy allowed a few moments silence before she spoke again, softly.
"You have to talk to him, you know."
Lizzy considered playing dumb, but decided that was pointless.
"I don't have to talk to anyone." She replied sharply, and went back to toying with the straps of her dress.
"They're fine as they are." Maddy said, and Lizzy let her hands drop to her sides.
"Shouldn't we be leaving now? I think I hear the limo." She made to leave the room, but Maddy's next words forced her to halt in her step.
"Lizzy, what happened?"
What could she say? He doesn't love me. Even if he did love me, he's engaged to someone else and everyone knows about it. Everyone but me. I found out and I ran. I didn't say good-bye. I haven't answered his calls. I can't say good-bye. I love him so much that I'm terrified of what he might do to me. If I back out now, I don't give him a chance to hurt me. And I'm so afraid of today. He must hate me now. What if he hates me - how do I live? What if he loves me - how do I walk away? I can't win! Help me, Maddy, there's no way out! As all of this burned through her thoughts, Lizzy looked at her Aunt and said, quite calmly - "It didn't work out between us. I think we should join the wedding party now."
It was a beautiful ceremony, but Lizzy didn't hear a word. Clutching her bouquet so tightly that she could feel the stems splitting, she concentrated fiercely on the hem of the priest's gown. Will stood not three feet away, heart-wrenchingly handsome in his dark suit, and Lizzy did not trust herself to look at him.
This could have been our wedding, her thoughts tormented her mercilessly. I love him so much and I will never have him. Never.
The ceremony ended and Lizzy tossed handfuls of confetti with the rest of the joyful well-wishers, but she could not forget the dance which loomed ahead of her, ominous as stormclouds.
The Reception was being held in the extravagantly decorated function-room of a five-star hotel.
Lizzy stationed herself as inconspicuously as possible beside a huge floral display of white roses, already clutching her fourth champagne glass. She nearly dropped the flute when Jimmy appeared suddenly by her elbow.
"Right, what is it this time?" He began, without preamble, "Because this is the absolute last time I interfere in the stupid games you two are determined to play."
Lizzy gulped greedily at her champagne, then said bluntly, "He's engaged."
"What?" Jimmy couldn't believe what he was hearing.
She regarded him cynically. "You mean you don't know? You'd be the only one. He's engaged to Anne de Bourg. Has been for some time, I understand. Of course, no one bothered to inform me." She laughed bitterly.
Meanwhile, the band was striking up a slow moving love-song, as has been requested. The parents of the bride and groom, the bride and groom themselves and the best man and bride's maid were the only couples intended for this dance. Lizzy's hands began to tremble violently. She thrust the champagne glass at a still-reeling Jimmy.
"No - Lizzy, wait, you don't understand - " but he knew she wasn't listening, and anyway, Will was already approaching them to claim his dance. Jimmy could only step back, promising himself that the moment this dance was over, he would take them both aside and extract some explanations. Not now - there were only four couples on the floor the eyes of the whole room were upon them.
Swallowing hard, Lizzy forced herself to look into Will's face.
His features were tight and cold. "Miss Bennet?" The moment she heard his voice, Lizzy's heart dropped, and she knew that despite all her resolves, she had sub-consciously been hoping that there was still hope for them. That if she gave him the chance to speak to her, he would somehow set everything right and she could fall into his arms. But his tone and his expression spoke volumes - there would be no reconciliation.
Numbly, she stood up and gave him her hand. Oh God, it's still there, she thought frantically, He still sends lightning down my spine with a simple touch. The next moment his arms were around her - lightly, impersonally. She could see him, smell him, feel him - and yet he was so far away. She felt that the pieces of her broken heart were being ground into the dust.
He kept his gaze fixed firmly over her head and was silent. Lizzy couldn't bear it.
"I believe - " her voice cracked a little, but she was determined now, and tried again - "I believe we must have some conversation, Mr. Darcy."
He did not look at her. "Do you talk by rule when you dance?" He spoke brusquely.
Lizzy's couldn't manage much more than a whisper: "Sometimes it is best. We don't have to say much. The wedding, the wine... that would do."
He was silent for a moment. "And I suppose you think that's all that needs to be said." There was an undertone of viciousness which was not lost on Lizzy. She had never heard him speak that way before.
"No," she kept her voice tightly reigned, "But that's all that ought to be said. Between us, anyway."
"I don't understand you," he spoke softly now, but his anger and hurt were more evident than ever. "You are the most unfeeling woman I have ever met."
Every syllable stabbed, but her eyes flashed with fury as she jerked her head up to face him. "How dare you presume to know what I feel?"
His gaze mocked her. "What would you have me think? Four days of what we shared - then you up and leave. No reasons, no explanations, no good-byes. I think that's a fair indication of your feelings - or lack of. Was I just part of some sick game you were playing? Tell me, was I your first victim, or do you break hearts for regular kicks?"
Lizzy was shaking with hurt and mortification.
"Perhaps I could ask you the same question!" Tears spilled from her eyes as she wrenched out his arms. She tried to say something more, but the words came out as a breathless sob. Regardless of the astonished faces all around her, she pickled up her skirts and ran for the exit.
Behind her, Will couldn't help wondering brokenly if he would ever see her again. And he wondered how he was going to live if that answer was 'no'.
Jimmy didn't know which way to turn. Should he go to Will, and force the fool to go after her? Or should he follow Lizzy himself, and explain the whole misunderstanding? After a moment of indecision, he chose the later, and tossed his empty glass at a surprised drinks waiter before setting off in pursuit of Elizabeth.
The room was crowded and his frustrated mounted, but at last he was running unobstructed though the hotel foyer and looking around frantically for a head of dark curls or an ivory silk dress. But the foyer was deserted, even of staff. Frowning, he strode hurriedly toward the glass revolving-doors at the entrance of the hotel. From there he could see a busy group of green-uniformed hotel staff gathered at the foot of the steep marble stairs which led up from the street.
A horrible apprehension seized him as he pushed through the doors and leapt down the stairs. The staff saw him coming and stood aside, respectfully. But Jimmy didn't feel capable of taking one more step.
"We're so sorry," said a soft voice to his right, "Did you know her?"
Jimmy nodded dumbly.
"She was running. She slipped on the stairs. The ambulance is on its way, sir."
Part XVIII
Seven Hours Later
Jimmy stood in the hospital corridor and pressed Will's number into his mobile keypad for the eighth time in the past three hours. He cursed when he heard the same recorded message that he had reached with every try. Wherever he was, Will apparently did not feel like talking to anyone.
Snapping the phone closed, Jimmy turned and walked up to the door of Lizzy's ward, which was set with a glass panel, so he could see into the small room where Elizabeth lay still against the white linen. Her father and Jane sat by her bedside - the rest of the family had taken the doctor's advice and returned home for the night. Jimmy rubbed tiredly at his eyes, and began to consider doing the same. He had done all he could here tonight.
Making as little sound as he could, he let himself into Lizzy's ward. Mr. Bennet had fallen into an exhausted sleep, slumped uncomfortably in his chair. He spoke softly to Jane.
"No change?"
Jane looked up and shook her head, sadly. "No change." She confirmed. "But the doctor assures us that there is no damage to the spine, and no permanent damage to the brain. We're only waiting for her to regain consciousness."
"I'm sorry about your honeymoon, Jane."
She didn't even blink. "That's of no importance. Charles understands. It's just a delay - as soon as Lizzy is out of danger we'll be setting off."
Jimmy was heartened by her calm faith that her sister would recover. The memory of Lizzy's limp form lying crumpled at the foot of the stairs had disturbed him profoundly. Although his romantic involvement with Lizzy Bennet had been a short-lived affair, he had none-the-less grown very attached to her. After Will, she was probably his best friend, and his concern for the pain the two of them seemed intent on causing each other was very genuine.
As his thoughts took this turn, he began to wonder about his cousin. He should be here. He should to be here for her. I shouldn't be the one to explain. But where could he possibly be?
When Lizzy had left him standing on the dance floor, Will had not been inclined to hang around for refreshments and hot 'ourdeouves. Locating a back-exit, he was quick to make his escape and found his way onto the street. He chose a direction at random and set off, stalking through the city in an effort to work off his anger and misery. The daylight faded and the street-lights came on. Will kept on walking. It was close to midnight when he finally slowed down, relishing the exhaustion which numbed his thoughts. He hailed a taxi and directed it back to the hotel, where he had parked his Mercedes.
After climbing out onto the curb and paying the driver, he informed the doorman of his purpose, and waited while his car was driven out for him. The doorman waited silently by his side, and only when the sleek Merc was gliding to a stop did he speak.
"Excuse me, Sir, but have you been attending the wedding reception that was held here this-evening?"
Will raised an eyebrow. "I wouldn't call it 'attendance'," he said bitterly, "but certainly, I was on the guest list. I was the best man, in fact."
The doorman seized eagerly upon this last snippet of information. "Ah, then perhaps you knew the girl who fell? Could you tell us how she is faring? The staff here are very worried about her."
Another doorman was holding the door of the Merc open for him, and Will was impatient to leave.
"No, I don't know how she is faring. I don't even know who you're talking about." He said shortly.
"Right. Sorry to bother you, sir." The man was apologetic. "I just thought that since you were the best man you were likely to be acquainted with the bride's sister. Enjoy your evening, sir."
Will nodded and made to enter the car, when the full meaning of the doorman's words descended upon him. He did a sharp double take, causing the other man to jump when he suddenly cried out - "The bride's sister!?"
"Why yes, sir, the young lady who fell. Did you not hear about it? She came running from the function hall in tears, pushed though those doors you see behind me, and stumbled on the top step. She was unconscious and bleeding from the head when the ambulance arrived and took her to the hospital."
"Lizzy!" He could feel the blood draining from his face.
"Yes, I think that was her name. Some staff members are claiming that she was killed in the fall, but no one seems to know the real facts. Hence my inquiries, sir. I hope you do not think them impertinent."
"No no, not at all. Look, you have to help me - do you know which hospital she was taken to?" Will was frantic, and the doorman was quite bewildered by the abrupt change in his attitude.
"No, I don't know..." He caught the desperate look that had come into the young man's eyes. "... But I believe The Flynn Memorial Hospital is the closest. Sir."
"Thank you!" Will shouted, but his words were lost in the roar of the engine as he threw himself into the driver's seat and sped into the night.
"Elizabeth Bennet!"
The girl on night-shift behind the desk at the Flynn Memorial Hospital was enjoying a hot mug of coffee and peaceful moment to herself when the doors slid apart and admitted a wild-eyed man in a once-formal tuxedo, which had apparently seen a rough night. When he shouted the name 'Elizabeth Bennet' breathlessly over the reception desk, her immediate suspicion was that he was entering the late stages of inebriation.
"Can I help you, sir?" She asked icily, wondering if she ought to call Security.
"Please, I need to know! Is she dead?"
"Sir, if you are in need of medical attention, you need Accident and Emergency. If you are concerned for the well-being of a friend or family member, you may give me your details, but you will not be admitted into any wards in your present condition."
"My present.... No Ma'am, I'm not drunk! Believe me. But - " He took a deep breath, struggling to compose himself. "Excuse me." He tried again, "But was there a young woman brought in... around 6pm? A Miss Elizabeth Bennet? She fell, and I just.... I just need to know...."
Nothing softens a woman's heart faster than vulnerability and romanticism combined and 'gift-wrapped' with melting brown eyes. The night nurse was certainly no exception, and she agreed to check the night's records.
Will found himself gripping the desk for support as she ran a finger down a list of names. His mouth was dry and his heart was pounding. Please God, let her be OK. I'll do anything, anything at all.... Please God Please God Please.... don't let her be....
"...Dead." The nurse sadly voiced the word he couldn't even bear to think.
"What?"
"I'm so sorry. I'm afraid she died earlier this evening. She passed away at.... Oh! Oh my goodness, I apologise! That's Elizabeth Benedict - she was 96. Odd, the names are very similar. No, here we are! Elizabeth Bennet, 24. Admitted through accident and emergency, injured seriously but not life-threateningly. She's still unconscious, but she's expected to make a full recovery... Excuse me, Sir, would like a seat?"
The shock and relief had completely overwhelmed him. His legs didn't feel capable of supporting his weight.
"No, thank you, ma'am." He managed, and limped tiredly toward the exit.
"But don't you want to see her? Are you a family member?" The nurse cried after him.
Will longed to be able to say - "Yes, she's my wife." He longed to sit by her bedside and hold her hand, reassuring himself that she was really going to recover. To be there when she opened her eyes, to tell her how much he loved her. For a moment he let himself live that fantasy...
But it was not his place. She despised him. He had done something terribly wrong and she had deserted him. And now he had even caused her accident - he had no right to come near her.
"I'll be all right." He said wearily, and left the building. Somehow, he knew it was obvious to all that he was lying.
Jimmy entered the Reception area mere moments after Will had left. He nodded politely to the nurse on duty behind the desk, and made to leave.
"Excuse me, Sir?" The nurse stopped him, seeming uncertain.
"Yes?" He replied, pausing.
"You've just come from Miss Bennet's bedside, haven't you?"
"Yes, I have."
"Ah. Please excuse my forwardness, but are you her boyfriend?"
"No, just a close friend. Why the curiosity?"
The nurse still seemed uncertain about something. "Nothing, sir. Sorry to bother you."
"You've piqued my curiosity now."
She smiled slightly, replying - "Well, a man came in just now, who seemed very... concerned for the welfare of one Elizabeth Bennet."
Jimmy immediately wanted to know more. "Was he tall? Dark hair? Most likely still in a Tux?"
"Yes, all of those. Do you know him?"
Jimmy groaned, rather startling the woman. "Yes, I know him. And he's the biggest fool in all of.... Look, when was he here? Could I still catch him?"
"He's only been gone a few minutes...."
"Thank you!" Cried Jimmy, but he was already out the door.
Part XIX
"Jane...?"
Jane snapped out of her doze. For a moment she was disorientated, but the stiffness of her back and the sharp detergent-smell of the hospital brought her swiftly to her senses.
"Lizzy!" She leapt to her feet and rushed to the bedside. Lizzy's eyes were open and she was blinking blearily at her sister.
"How are you feeling? Should I call the doctor?" Jane was frantic with worry and joy at seeing her sister awake at last.
Lizzy's throat was painfully dry, and her head was aching hellishly, but she managed to smile weakly at her sister's uncharacteristic flustering. "Jane..." Ah, but it hurt to talk. Her head...
"Jane... where is .... Will?"
Jane's eyes grew bright with concern. "Will? Oh God, Lizzy... Don't you remember what happened? I'm calling the doctor." She depressed the button which summoned a nurse.
Lizzy was still struggling to speak, "No... I remember.... But I ...." Oh, why did it hurt so much? She was so thirsty. And the pain in her head! She needed drugs. But before they drugged her again, she had to get this out. She needed Will, and that was all she knew. He had to know how much she loved him. At that moment, nothing was more important.
"Lizzy? Lizzy, what about Will? What do you remember?" Jane leaned close, silently crossing her fingers, praying that there would be no amnesia.
"You have to... tell him... "
"Yes?"
"He has.... to know.... that I .... I ...."
"Now then!" Boomed the ever-genial but unfortunately-timed Doctor O'Reily, as the ward door swung open with a bang, "Awake at last, Miss Bennet? Not over-exciting our patient, I hope, Mrs. Bingley!"
Jane leaned back, biting at her bottom lip. "Of course not, doctor." She said slowly. Lizzy's expressive dark eyes were pleading with her, but she wasn't exactly sure what she was being asked to do.
"If you will excuse me, doctor, I believe I have some phone calls to make. Our family and friends will want to be informed of my sister's improvement."
Jimmy only left a moment ago, Jane reassured herself as she squeezed Lizzy's hand and hurriedly left the room, If I hurry, I can catch him. He will know what I should do. He always seems to know. She broke into a run.
"Will!" Jimmy's voice echoed eerily through the dark hospital parking-lot, "Will, are you here? Answer me dammit! You can't leave!"
Aware that he was all but invisible in the shadows beside his car, Will decided that he damn well could leave, and stayed silent. To see Lizzy again was nothing but an impossible fantasy now. Let Jimmy think that he had already gone. He had been through enough this evening. He didn't need the heartache of being dragged back to the bedside of a woman who despised him. She was going to recover - he could content himself with that knowledge.
"Will?" Jimmy's voice was losing hope. It took all of Darcy's willpower not to step into the light. To see Elizabeth... just one more time? Could there be any harm in that? But no! Pride and rationality and every other sensibility forbade it. He bit his lip and remained still.
"Jimmy!" Both men were startled and very alarmed to see Jane come running out of the hospital. "Jimmy, thank God you haven't left yet!" she panted, "And I heard you calling Will! Is he here? Lizzy is waking up!"
Will took an involuntary step forward before he could check himself. No! He pulled himself up. She doesn't love you! She doesn't want you! Just walk away.
Jimmy groaned. "He's gone! I'm too late. But how is she?"
Jane's hesitation was far too lengthy in Will's opinion. He took deep breaths and crossed his fingers unconsciously in the dark, praying that she was going to be all right.
"The doctor is with her now. Can you come Jimmy? There's... there's something else."
"What is it?" Jimmy voiced Will's question for him.
"No, don't worry! Lizzy is fine. I think. It's just... she's asking for Will. I'm not sure what she remembers. She was trying to make me tell him something for her when the doctor came in, but she couldn't talk very well and I didn't hear the end of it."
Jimmy cursed loudly, and paced tensely. "Look, Jane, I hope you're not going to take offence, but just let me get this off my chest! Your sister and my cousin are the blindest, proudest, most imbecilic morons I have ever met!
He falls in love with her, but is too proud to admit it, until he finally cracks under the pressure and condescends to love her. She is too proud to accept his farce of an offer. He retreats to the country and buries himself in self-pity. But meanwhile, she's gone and fallen in love with him anyway. Here Fate miraculously intervenes and brings them face to face. Four days they spend together - they were in love, at long bloody last! But of course, that was all too simple! So she goes and gets it into her head that he's already engaged! Result - she makes a run for it, feeling betrayed and scared and heartbroken and the rest of it. While he, insecure and neurotic, assumes that he's been thrown off in the cruelest possible way and turns himself to ice in her presence! I'm sick and tired of it, I tell you. And I'm not interfering any more!"
At this point, Will materialised - seemingly miraculously - beside them. Jane gasped but Jimmy didn't miss a beat.
"And Will, it's about time you turned up, I was expecting you to come leaping out of the shadows at least 30 seconds ago. You're late. You heard what I said about not interfering any more, I hope? Good. Well, I lied. You are going into that ward and you are going to propose to Elizabeth Bennet, and if you let one more thing come between the two of you, then I personally will hand-cuff you together and not return the key until you've sorted out every conceivable misunderstanding. And Will! Will - don't walk away while I'm still talking to you! Hey! And you 're entering a hospital - you're not allowed to run. For heaven's sake, she's confined to a bed, she's not going anywhere this time."
Jane and Jimmy were both running to catch up. As they swept past the surprised night-nurse, Jimmy shot her his most charming smile and she decided not to reprimand them. Instead, she resolved to find out the name of that rather pleasing young man with the lovely smile. He warranted further investigation.
Will was unprepared for the sight which met his eyes as he cautiously pushed open the door of Elizabeth's ward. She was looked so pale and - fragile. Fragile was not a word he usually associated with Lizzy, and that worried him. With her long dark curls spread across the white pillow, she looked vulnerable and beautiful, and Will couldn't imagine loving her more than he did at that moment.
The doctor looked up as he entered. "I'm sorry, visiting hours are over." He said firmly. Will didn't even hear him.
Lizzy's eyes flickered open and focused on the figure standing at the door.
"Will!" She managed to whisper, lifting a hand toward to him. A moment later he was by her side, grasping her hand in both of his and fervently pressing her fingers to his lips.
Doctor O'Reily was just opening his mouth to object to the intrusion, when Jane rushed to his side and spoke quickly with him, leading him firmly out of the room. "I'm not sure if - " He was saying, but Jane was absolutely adamant. The couple didn't notice, anyway.
"Lizzy, Lizzy, I'm so sorry! If I had known... And I know it's all my fault... But you have to believe me, I didn't mean for... Lizzy, I'm not engaged, I don't know why you thought that I was, but I didn't know that you had that idea, if you'd just asked me! But I just want you know that I'm - "
He stopped as Lizzy placed a gently finger over his lips and tried to speak. "Will... shut up..." She smiled weakly at him, and his heart leapt with hope and love. He shut up. "I don't care... any more... You're here..."
"Oh Lizzy..." His voice broke with emotion, "I love you so much. I never stopped!"
Lizzy could feel the injection she had just been given already taking effect. It was becoming a struggle to keep her eyes open. As painful as wakefulness was, she fought against sleep. She wanted to be with him. "I love you... Will," she whispered, as the darkness enveloped her, "Stay... with me..."
"I'll stay..." He replied softly, gently stroking her cheek as she drifted into sleep, "I'll never leave again."
Epilogue
Lizzy welcomed the warm breeze on her cool, salty skin as she tied her sarong and picked up her towel. It was another beautiful day in Derby, and the Pemberley beach was superb. She made her way up the beach toward the house, drying her hair as she went. Georgiana met her on the stairs.
"Hey, George! The water is lovely today. Why aren't you swimming? Oh - ouch, not again!" She exclaimed suddenly, and dumped the towel and set about disengaging her finger from a knot of curls. "That's the only problem with this ring," She complained, smiling as she pulled her hand free, "It keeps on catching in my hair. I told Will the diamond was too big. I can't wait until we're married, even if it's only to wear a more sensible ring!"
Georgiana laughed at her. "Oh yes, I'm sure that's the only reason you're looking forward to the wedding."
"What, you mean there's more?" Lizzy grinned.
George laughed again. "Will is in the music room, Lizzy."
"Thanks." Elizabeth trotted happily up the remaining stairs.
Georgiana took a few steps in the other direction, then remembered that she had meant to ask Lizzy something about the bridesmaids' dresses for Saturday. She turned to follow her friend into the house.
She reached the music room, and put out her hand to turn the knob, when she overheard her brother saying something in a low, amused tone. His remark was followed by a throaty laugh from Lizzy. After that there came a most suspicious silence - marred only by a sudden thump of discordant notes, such as might be made by an especially passionate couple beside a piano.
The bridesmaid dresses can wait a while, thought Georgiana, and turned away from the door. And as she walked away down the corridor, her lips bore the trace of a happy, knowing smile.
THE END