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Part Eleven
"Lizzie? Lizzie!" Jane called from the bottom of the stairs. "Oh, drat, where is she?" Spotting one of the maids emerging from the side stairs, she motioned the girl to come over. "Have you seen Miss Elizabeth?"
The girl nodded. "Yes, ma'am. She was for takin' a walk a few minutes ago. I saw 'er go out the front door."
Thanking her, Jane grabbed her coat and headed outside to find her sister. Despite the snow that still covered most of the lawn it was not easy to find which way Elizabeth had gone, as there were so many sets of footprints. Finally, she made a guess and set off towards the rose arbour beyond the stone wall.
This part of the garden was especially bleak in the winter months, as the thorny stems of the rose bushes snaked out of the snowy ground and twisted in the air. Jane preferred the other side of the walled garden, where the bushes had been sculptured into the forms of animals, but she knew that Elizabeth enjoyed the dramatic effect of the rose garden. Considering the drama currently unfolding in her life, the irony was not lost on Jane. She spied her sister sitting on a small bench at the far end of the wall, gazing out across the lower field.
"Lizzie," Jane said when she was near enough. Elizabeth turned to face her. "Will just called."
Elizabeth sharply drew in her breath. "And?"
"He's coming back tomorrow. He wants to see William. Said he'd be here about three o'clock." Jane smiled hopefully.
But Elizabeth wasn't fooled by her sister's optimism. "What exactly did he say, Jane? I mean, his exact words."
Jane's smile faded. "He said, 'I want to see my son. Tell Elizabeth to have him there at three o'clock tomorrow.'"
Elizabeth let her breath out explosively. "Well, that's charming! Back to his old self, now; arrogant, demanding, and controlling!"
"You don't really mean that, Lizzie."
"Don't I?" She glared at Jane for a moment, then her face softened. "No, you're right." Elizabeth got up and took Jane's arm. "Come on. You'll catch your death out here. I don't need that on my conscience as well!"
As they made their way through the gardens back to the house, Elizabeth said, "I'll have to make a call to Longbourn to let them know I'm coming to pick up William tomorrow morning." She turned to Jane. "May I borrow your car to do that?"
"Why, of course, Lizzie. I'll come with you. Mama won't light into you as much if I'm there to distract her."
Elizabeth smiled gratefully. "Jane, what would I do without you?"
Jane smiled in return, but said nothing. She still considered her ill-fated meddling to have ruined her sister's chances with Will. Despite her usually optimistic outlook on things, Jane harboured serious doubts that Will Darcy would forgive Elizabeth. And if he decides to go for custody of their son, I won't be able to live with myself.
"Jane, I'll need your help tomorrow when Will gets here." Elizabeth was saying. "I'm not sure I can trust myself not to do something foolish. The other night I quite literally threw myself at him! It could have been so......so perfect." She sighed dejectedly. "If I hadn't been so stupid! He'd loved me all this time, you know. And now I've destroyed any chance of happiness. I told you he'd despise me for keeping William from him."
"Now, Lizzie," Jane tried to comfort her in spite of her own misgivings. "You don't know that. He'll be here tomorrow afternoon. Wait until then to pass judgment on your future with him. Whatever else, he's still William's father, and that will necessitate frequent visits. There may yet be hope......"
Elizabeth looked her sister squarely in the eye. "Jane, I know you mean well, but I'm telling you that when I see my son and Will Darcy together in the same room, and know that I can't be a part of that pretty picture......" Her eyes misted over and she turned away to mount the front steps to the door. "I would give anything to have the opportunity to seduce that man, again." she mumbled as she disappeared through the door and into the house.
Jane was about to follow her when she saw her husband's car approaching up the drive. She waited for him to park, and he quickly crossed the intervening space to join her.
"What news, my dear?"
Jane looked at him pitifully. "Will called. He's coming to see William tomorrow afternoon."
Charles cautiously asked, "How did he sound?"
"Formal."
Frowning, Charles led Jane into the house. "I figured he wouldn't be too long about it. I only hope he's taken enough time to think things through. If he throws away his final chance with Elizabeth by electing to be pig-headed about it........I've got to talk to him before he sees her."
"Charles...." Jane warned. "You were the one who said that they're on their own, now! We can't involve ourselves any more."
"I'm not involving myself, I'm......protecting my sister-in-law! Come on, Jane, she's living in our house. I need to know if he's planning to do something that will upset her, so that we can be there to support her." Charles said in all honesty.
"And if you take Elizabeth's side in this, who will he have to turn to for support?" Jane countered. "Don't hurt him any worse than we have already, Charles."
Her husband considered her words. Shaking his head, he said, "You're right, of course. Will does deserve some sympathy in this, although if he's going to be a prat about it, he will hear what I have to say. The fool has wasted the last three years mourning the loss of your sister, and if he chooses to spend the rest of his life that way, I shall have to knock some sense into his blasted head!"
"Will, there's something I've been meaning to ask you." Georgiana looked across the breakfast table at her brother.
Will raised his eyebrows, inviting her to continue.
"It's about that scarf that you gave to Elizabeth." She watched him carefully for any reaction. "Where did you get it?"
"Oh," he said with a sheepish smile. "I bought it shortly after Elizabeth left Pemberley that summer, while I was in London sorting out that problem with.......uh....George Wickham." He looked at his sister apologetically. "I was looking for something special, something different for her. In a small shop I met a lady who designed and hand-dyed those scarves by custom order."
"So you picked out the design?" Georgiana looked surprised.
"Oh, no! The lady did that. She asked me a lot of questions about the young woman who would be receiving this gift. Then she told me that she knew exactly what design to use." Will laughed as he remembered. "She said that she could "see" what my lady required!"
Georgiana stared at him. "She claimed to be a seer?"
Will chuckled. "Most definitely. I found it amusing." He looked at his sister's serious expression. "Surely, Georgiana, you don't believe any of that nonsense?"
"Will, did you ask this lady what the patterns on the scarf were supposed to represent?"
"No. By the time she completed the project and I had received the scarf, Elizabeth and I had parted company. Forever, I thought."
Georgiana smiled. "Yet you kept the scarf all this time. How interesting."
Will narrowed his eyes and wagged a finger at his sister. "What are you getting at?"
Georgiana's smile grew. "I did a little research on that design after I had seen the scarf and thought that I recognized it. The oak leaves around the central design was easy enough to interpret. The oak tree was a symbol of strength and protection in the old Celtic religions. It represented power, and survival despite adversity. The knotwork design in the middle, though, was more difficult to figure out at first. I finally realized that it was a variation on a Tree of Life design. Probably a little artistic licence, there. The tree is the holly, a potent life symbol, representing fatherhood and paternity. Shall I go on?"
Will was staring at her unable to decide if he should believe her, or laugh at her. He decided on the latter. "Very good, Georgie, you almost had me there!"
But his sister was looking at him in a decidedly annoyed manner. "Will, I did not make this up! I have the photocopies in my briefcase if you don't believe me."
He stopped laughing and stared at her. Not superstitious by nature, this explanation was a little ridiculous in his mind. Still, he didn't wish to offend Georgiana after she had been so helpful. "Ok, I'll grant you that you've interpreted the meanings of the designs correctly. But I refuse to believe in any psychic claptrap associated with the woman who made it."
Georgiana giggled. "Oh, Will! I wasn't trying to imply that she performed some sort of mystical ritual and could see your future! She probably could tell that you were besotted with Elizabeth, and that was an obvious choice of design to use!" She laughed until the tears rolled down her face. "If you could have seen the look on your face! Ha!"
Will considered throttling her, but instead, he joined in her laughter. When at last they had exhausted their mirth he said:
"Georgie, much as I enjoy being subjected to your abuse, I must be off if I'm going to make it to Netherfield before three."
"I would not keep you from your appointment with your son, Will." She smiled encouragingly. "I hope to meet him soon," she added while he shrugged himself into his coat.
Will looked at his little sister, wondering how she had grown up all unbeknownst to him. He drew her to him in a warm hug. "Thank you, Georgie, for your encouragement. And for your insight. I'll call you tonight to let you know how it works out."
Georgiana nodded through her tears. As she watched Will walk through the door, she said a silent prayer.
The next morning Elizabeth was surprised when her father called to say that he would be bringing William to Netherfield, thus saving her a visit to Longbourn....and her mother. They arrived just before lunch. After settling William's kitten, (Darcy! she huffed), into their bedroom and firmly closing the door, Elizabeth returned to the dining room to find everyone else already seated.
Charles had stayed at home for the day. He wasn't going to let Will slip in and out of his house without an explanation to his best friend.
As the servers placed the dishes on the table Mr. Bennet spoke. "Lizzie, is anything wrong?"
Elizabeth looked up. "No," she said slowly. "Why do you ask?"
"You just seem a little quieter than usual, that's all. I thought that perhaps something was on your mind."
Elizabeth assured her father that all was well.
"Maybe Mummy has nerves, too." came William's tiny voice.
The adults all turned their heads to stare at him. Charles didn't quite manage to stifle a laugh.
William looked around him. "Grandmama says she has nerves, and she said Mummy has lots of them."
Elizabeth could well imagine what her mother had to say about her daughter's nerve! Smiling down at her son, she said, "Never mind what Grandmama says, William. Just eat your lunch."
Casting a look down the table towards her father, Elizabeth addressed him. "How many people has Mama invited for dinner on Sunday, Papa?" This would be her mother's annual Valentine's Day dinner. Every year she tried to entice the Philips and the Gardiners to come.
"The Gardiners are coming. Your mother managed to trap your aunt into a promise when they were here at Christmas. Then there's you and William, and Jane and Charles, in addition to the resident complement."
"Oh, Lizzie, do you remember the year that you hid in the barn because Mama had invited that Johnson boy?" Jane laughed.
Elizabeth groaned. "Too well! Mama just couldn't keep her nose out." She turned to Charles and said by way of explanation, "Someone had told her that Paul Johnson was mad about me, and that I felt the same way, so she decided that Valentine's Day would be just the opportunity to get us together."
"So what was the problem?" Charles asked.
Jane laughed. "Paul wasn't mad about Lizzie. He was mad at her! Lizzie hid in the barn all afternoon and wouldn't come out!"
Embarrassed, her sister cried, "Well, how about when you refused to leave your room because you were afraid that Tim Brock was bringing a girlfriend with him?"
Jane begged to differ with that interpretation, and so the conversation continued through the meal, to the amusement of the men.
Mr. Bennet left them after lunch, as he had some errands to do for his wife. Elizabeth took her son upstairs, as there was just enough time for him to get in a nap before Will would arrive.
After tucking him into her own bed, with numerous stuffed animals for company, Elizabeth softly sang to him until he had drifted off to sleep. She watched him as he slept; the way his little lips pouted, and his lashes lay on his cheeks. No matter what mischief he managed to get into during the day, asleep he was transformed into an angel.
Elizabeth could trace the elements of Will Darcy in her son's features. There was very little physical resemblance to herself; except he seemed to have her nose. And your eyes. Will's words came back to her.
Disturbed, she rose from the side of the bed and began to gather up the toys scattered about the room. He would arrive in less than two hours.
Two hours! What if that's all the time I have left with my baby? What if he takes William and leaves? My, God what would I do? What could I do?
Despairing, Elizabeth picked up her son's favourite teddy bear, and sat down in the chair by the bedside. Clutching the ragged toy, she lowered her face into it and cried.
Part Twelve
Elizabeth heard a soft knock at her door. Checking her reflection in the mirror once more, she called "Come in."
William looked up as the door opened.
"He's here.....Oh!" Jane's eyes widened. "You look absolutely gorgeous!"
Elizabeth smoothed her skirt. "I aim to please, Jane. Especially today."
"Oh, Lizzie! Then you haven't given up on him entirely?"
Elizabeth faced her sister. "Jane, if I give up, then we all lose; William, me and Will. I had time to think while William was sleeping. I love Will Darcy, and whether he still loves me after all this, or he doesn't, is of no consequence. I am not going to let him get away this time!" Her eyes issued a challenge to Jane.
"Can I be of any help?"
Elizabeth grinned. "Do you still have the key to the library?"
Jane grinned in reply.
Calling to her son, Elizabeth said, "All right William! Let's go downstairs and meet your Daddy!"
William leaped up and ran past his mother, racing out the door and down the hallway. Elizabeth called for him to slow down and wait for her. He obediently came to a halt at the top of the stairs. All three of them descended the staircase together.
Charles was waiting outside the door to the drawing room. He did a double take when he saw Elizabeth. Oh, Will doesn't stand a chance! Between Lizzie's outfit and that perfect little kid of hers...of his!
"He's waiting in there," and Charles motioned toward the door behind him.
Elizabeth sallied past, ushering William ahead of her. She reached for the doorknob, and before turning it, looked back at Jane. "Wish me luck."
"Good luck, Lizzie," Jane whispered.
She turned the knob and pushed the door open.
Will stood near the window, gazing out over the lawns, attempting to organize his thoughts one last time. He heard Charles' voice in the hall, and knew that the moment had come. His son was out there, with Elizabeth. He turned to face the door.
William entered first, and Will felt his stomach drop to his knees. His heart went in the other opposite direction as Elizabeth entered directly behind the boy. She was wearing a short black skirt, slit on the left side, and a well-fitting off-the-shoulder silk blouse in pale yellow. Her hair was pulled back away from her face, but the length of it was left to cascade down her back. A few wayward tendrils curved lazily around her neck, drawing the eye as they snaked their way along the curves of her breasts.
She threw him a look that he could feel twisting deep in his gut.
"Hello, Daddy," came a small voice.
Will's attention was instantly drawn to the boy who stood before him, gazing up with his wide brown eyes.....her eyes. A warm smile spread over his features as he knelt down to meet William face to face.
"Hello, William." His throat tightened and he was unable to go on, but his son smiled and continued excitedly.
"Can we go walk in the garden? I want to fall in the snow again!"
Will laughed, and William giggled. The little boy impulsively reached up to wind his arms around his father's neck and give him a hug.
"Mummy likes big squishy hugs. Do you like them, too, Daddy?"
Will's voice threatened to break as he softly replied, "Oh, yes William, very much."
Watching them from the window, Elizabeth felt this tender scene tearing at her heart. She longed to be a part of this special moment. Unbidden, the memory of William's birth came to mind, and how she had wished that Will was there, to share in the joy of their son and all of the discoveries thereafter. For all that he had missed, Elizabeth was truly sorry. Those events could never be regained. His words of the other evening haunted her still:
My life has been a desolate wasteland for the last three years.
He had been alone all that time, and she had at least had William, a part of him, with her always.
Elizabeth stirred from her reverie to see William clutching a stuffed dog. He delightedly marched the toy atop Will's head causing both to laugh.
"I have several real dogs like this one at home," Will told him.
William's eyes lit up. "Can I come see them?" Before his father could form a reply, the boy ran over to Elizabeth. "Mummy, can I go?"
Elizabeth's eyes flicked briefly toward Will. "William, your father's home is very far away. I'm afraid you can't go there today." Not wanting to sound severe, she added, "perhaps next week, if that's convenient with you, Will?" She looked at him, well aware of what she was risking. Once William disappeared behind the front gates of Pemberley, he would be out of her reach.
Will nodded. "But only if your mother comes with you," he said, never taking his eyes from her face.
William squealed in delight and rushed back to his father, hugging him once again and planting a kiss on his cheek.
"Would you like to see my kitten?" he asked.
"You have a kitten? Here?"
"He's upstairs," Elizabeth explained. "In our room."
"Can I show him to Daddy?" William persisted.
Elizabeth nodded and he ran from the room. His footsteps could be heard racing up the stairs.
There was silence for a moment, until a soft "Elizabeth" dispelled it. She raised her eyes to meet Will's as he slowly approached her place by the window.
"I--" he began, then paused. Taking a deep breath, he tried again. "Please forgive me, Elizabeth. I should never have left you. Not two nights ago; nor three years ago." He shook his head. "I can't believe how abominably stupid I've been! I have no-one but myself to blame for losing you, and missing my son's first years. When I think of what you went through, alone, to bear my child; to raise him! My heart freezes in my chest knowing that you might have chosen differently; that my son might never have existed at all!"
Realizing the track that his mind must have taken, Elizabeth said softly, "I assure you, that thought never crossed my mind."
Will looked away briefly, unsure of his control at this moment. His gaze on the floor, he said, "I brought something for you, too."
Elizabeth's own heart skipped a beat. "For.....for me?"
Will raised his eyes once more, a tentative smile beginning to appear. He crossed to the sofa and then returned to her with a long box obviously containing flowers. She accepted it, and sat down in the window seat to undo the tie securing the lid. Inside lay two dozen red roses, bound with a red velvet ribbon. There was an envelope attached. Opening it, Elizabeth glanced quickly at Will before she read the contents.
There is nothing on this earth that could destroy my love for you.
I can only hope that I have not destroyed yours for me.
I cannot bear living in darkness any longer, as my life would surely be without you,
without our son.
Elizabeth, I beg you to forgive me.
Please tell me that it is not too late.
She felt the tears gather in her eyes, and hastily wiped at them with her hand. Will was staring at her intently. Elizabeth looked at the note once more, then at the roses in their box. She saw the light catch on something in the velvet folds of the ribbon. Peering closer, she discovered a ring nestled in the centre of the bow.
Elizabeth gave a gasp and reached into the box. With trembling hands, she began to untie the ribbon. Suddenly there was another hand, assisting her. She looked up into Will's face. As he freed the gold band from it's trappings, he took her hand in his own and his eyes asked the unspoken question. Finally his lips moved.
"Elizabeth, I want to marry you. It's all I ever wanted. I want my son at Pemberley. I want us to be a family." His voice had trailed off to a whisper, and he anxiously searched her face for some indication of her heart.
Elizabeth closed her eyes. How many times had she imagined this scene? How often had she fantasized about her white knight rescuing her from a life of single motherhood, of scraping together a living, relying on her father's generosity to provide for her son? But it wasn't just money and security. This was Fitzwilliam Darcy, the man she had loved for years! The father of her son! And it wasn't a dream! When she opened her eyes she saw Will was still looking at her anxiously.
"Elizabeth, may I ask you once more........"
But Elizabeth was not inclined to wait for the question. Bringing his hands to her lips, she looked up into his eyes, her own again brimming with imminent tears. "No," she began, and before he could misinterpret her meaning, continued quickly, "It is my turn to ask you. After that abominable reply I gave you last time.......You deserve to see me humbled." She tilted her chin up, and he smiled in delight to see a fiery sparkle return to her beautiful eyes. "Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, will you relieve my suffering and consent to be my husband?"
There were no words spoken. Will lowered his mouth to hers, and the fire that sparked when their lips met, coursed through their bodies. Their passions consumed them, feeding off one another. Something caused them to finally recollect their surroundings, and Elizabeth and Will forced their desire into check breathlessly facing one another.
"Does this mean we're engaged?" Will grinned.
Elizabeth raised her eyebrows in that arch manner he so loved. "Well, we soon will be engaged in something!" she teased.
They stood, arms wrapped around one another, staring into each other's eyes until they became aware of a gentle throat-clearing and realized that Charles, Jane and William were standing in the doorway. Judging by the looks on their faces, they had been there a while.
"Is there something we should know?" Charles said blandly.
"Mummy!" cried William as he shoved his way between his parents.
Disentangling herself from Darcy, Elizabeth bent down and picked up their son.
Will turned to his friend. "Yes, indeed, Charles! Your lovely sister-in-law has just asked me to marry her!"
Jane's eyes widened in surprise. Then she laughed. "Congratulations, Lizzie! Congratulations, Will! You certainly have impeccable timing. Mama just called and invited herself and Papa over for dinner tonight." She winked at Lizzie. "I know she will be thrilled to hear your news!"
Charles and Jane laughed again, but Will cringed. Lizzie.......well, it was her father's reaction that alarmed her. What was he going to say, once he realized what she had neglected to tell him all these years!
Part Thirteen
Jane suddenly wasn't laughing anymore. A distinctly frightened look had appeared on her face as she placed a hand on her abdomen.
"Jane, what is it?" Elizabeth put her son down and quickly came to her sister's side. "Is it the baby?"
Jane looked up into Elizabeth's face. "I'm not sure. I felt a sharp pain just now. There, it's gone," she said in relief.
Elizabeth looked closely at her. "Have you been having any of these pains before now?"
"Well, a few." she admitted. "But I've been having these for weeks, and the doctor said it wasn't anything to worry about. I just had to relax."
"Oh, yeah, right! You've had one hell of a relaxing time the last week!" Elizabeth pulled her sister over to the sofa and made her sit. "Now, tell me exactly what you've been feeling, and for how long."
Charles stationed himself beside his wife. He glanced at Elizabeth. "Should I ring the doctor?"
Elizabeth smiled. "Not yet, Charles. I'll let you know after Jane answers my question." She looked inquiringly at Jane.
"It started just before lunch. I figured I was nervous about what was going to happen with you and Will, so I didn't think much of it. Ahhh!" she cried as another pain seized her.
Elizabeth stood up. "All right. Ring the doctor, Charles. We're taking Jane to the hospital, right now!"
Charles jumped up from the sofa and ran for the phone.
"Charles!" Elizabeth called after him. He turned, panic written all over his face. "Don't rush around so! We have time. You'll have to ring Longbourn, too, to tell them we won't be home for dinner! I'll help Jane into the car, while you make the calls."
"What can I do?" Will asked from behind her.
"You can drive!" she said, and flashed him a smile.
Will grinned. "Come along, William! Let's get our coats and go warm up the car." He picked up the little boy and carried him, giggling, from the room.
Elizabeth turned back to Jane and said with mock severity. "Isn't this a bit extreme to get out of having dinner with Mama?"
"Oh, Lizzie!" Jane laughed. "Can you blame me?"
"No. So let's go."
Elizabeth took her sister's arm and together they made their way to the front hall. She helped Jane into her coat, and then threw her own on. They were just ready to go out the door when Charles joined them. He had Jane's overnight bag in one hand and took his wife's arm with the other to help her down the steps to the dark green Jaguar waiting at the bottom.
Charles climbed into the back seat beside Jane, while Elizabeth joined her son in the front. As they pulled away from the house, Elizabeth turned to the driver and grinned mischievously.
"A Jag? What happened to the Mercedes?"
"That's in the garage for the winter. It is February, Elizabeth." Will winked at her. "Besides, can you imagine cramming us all into that sporty little thing?"
"Just shut up and drive!" Charles shouted from the back seat.
Grinning, Will turned his attention back to the road, while Elizabeth clapped a hand to her mouth to keep from laughing.
It took little time before they arrived at the emergency entrance of the hospital, and both Charles and Elizabeth accompanied Jane into the building. Will drove around the back to park the car, then, taking William by the hand, went in to join them. Charles was still filling out the papers, but the two sisters were not to be seen.
"Where's Mummy?" William asked.
Will picked up the boy. "I think she and your Aunt Jane have gone into one of the rooms. I'm sure she'll be out again, soon."
With a sweep of his hand, Charles finished the paperwork and practically threw them across the counter to the nurse at the station. A hurried glance at his friend, and he rushed off through the doors leading to the treatment rooms.
Will looked at his son. "Well, I suppose we'll just sit down and wait. Someone is bound to come along and tell us something."
He chose a chair with a good view of the entry doors, and sat William on his lap.
"Daddy," his son whispered. "I need to go potty."
Will looked at him with some confusion. Then he scanned the surrounding walls for a sign to indicate where the washrooms were. Hefting the boy under one arm, he set off in that direction.
When they returned to the waiting area a few moments later Elizabeth was there.
"I wondered where you had disappeared to," she said. "William, are you behaving yourself?"
"I had to go potty, Mummy."
Elizabeth smiled as she glanced at Will. "Sorry about that. Jane wanted me to stay with her while Charles filled out the admitting forms." She opened her bag and withdrew some toy cars. "Here you are, William."
Will's eyebrows rose. "You carry toys in your handbag?"
"Of course." Elizabeth laughed. "Children need to be entertained wherever they go. This could be a long night. I might need to send William home if it gets too late."
They watched their son playing on the floor at their feet, while they talked.
"Was Jane with you when William was born?" Will asked.
Elizabeth looked away. "No. My father was there, in the waiting room, though."
Will frowned. "You were all alone, then? No moral support?" He took her hand in his as she nodded slowly. "I'm so sorry, Elizabeth."
She looked at William, and then turned to his father and said with a smile, "Don't be, Will. You can be with me next time!"
Will's eyes sparkled at this thought, and putting his arm around Elizabeth, drew her close. He closed his eyes and imagined them at Pemberley, warm and cosy before the fire in the library.
"Miss Bennet?" a nurse enquired.
"Yes," replied Elizabeth.
"Your sister has asked if you would come sit with her for a few minutes, again."
Elizabeth cast an apologetic look at Will, then started to follow the nurse. Before reaching the doors, she turned back and said, "I might be awhile, Will. I think William should have something to eat. Can you take him to the cafeteria or somewhere for some dinner?"
"Sure," he said, then suddenly called, "Wait, Elizabeth! What does he eat?"
Elizabeth laughed as she replied, "Just get him some fish and chips, or pizza! He likes both of those."
"Shall we bring you something?"
"Oh, yes, please! Better make it a sandwich, though." she said. "Just in case I'm still in there with Jane when you get back." She gave him a kiss, then one to William, and disappeared beyond the doors.
"William, are you hungry?" Will asked as he knelt down to the boy's level. William nodded eagerly. "Ok, let's go find some dinner!"
William reached up to wrap his little arms around Will's neck. "Can you carry me?"
Will gave him a hug. Holding William tightly, he entered the lift and the doors closed just as the neighbouring lift doors opened.
"Oh, where is my Jane?" cried Mrs. Bennet. "Where is she? Do you know where she is?" she demanded of a passing intern. The woman looked alarmed, and shook her head, moving hurriedly away.
Mr. Bennet grasped his wife's arm and pulled her to the nurse's station. "I think perhaps if we enquired here......?"
"Oh, yes!" Mrs. Bennet eagerly leaned across the counter. "My daughter, Mrs. Bingley, where may I find her?"
The nurse gazed at her impassively. "There are already two visitors with her at the moment. Would you like me to tell them you're here?"
"That would be nice, thank you." said Mr. Bennet and once more pulled his wife away, this time to take a seat in the waiting area.
A few minutes later, Elizabeth was approaching them. "Papa, Mama, we didn't expect you here!"
Mrs. Bennet dabbed a handkerchief to her eyes. "Oh, Lizzie, I couldn't leave my poor Jane all alone at a time like this!"
Mr. Bennet rolled his eyes at his daughter. "She's hardly alone, my dear. Charles is with her, and Elizabeth, too."
"That's right, Mama. She's quite comfortable." Elizabeth sat down next to her father. "She's progressing quite nicely. It shouldn't be too long a wait."
Her mother gaped at her. "What? That's ridiculous, Elizabeth! Her labour couldn't be that short!"
"Her labour started early this morning, but she didn't really pay any attention, since she's been having false labour for weeks already." Elizabeth explained. "The doctor thinks it should only be another three hours at the most."
Mr. Bennet sat back in his chair. "Well then, Jane is indeed fortunate. I well remember the hours I spent waiting while you were in labour with William, my dear Lizzie. I could have read two or three books in the time it took, if I'd felt the inclination." He gave her a wink.
Elizabeth smiled. "I'm glad for Jane, if this will be over quickly. I wouldn't wish anyone a lengthy labour, not after my experience!"
"Oh, hush, Lizzie," her mother said impatiently. "My poor nerves! I must see Jane." She got up from her seat, but Elizabeth grabbed her hand.
"Mama, please sit down and be patient. Charles is with Jane at present. We'll be much better off out here."
But her mother's mind was no longer on Jane. She was staring at Elizabeth's hand in amazement. "Elizabeth Bennet! What is that on your finger?" she screeched.
Elizabeth snatched her hand back, as she noticed the people around them turn to stare. "Mother!" she whispered, mortified.
Mr. Bennet, too, was wondering what was going on. "What are you talking about, Fanny?"
"It's a ring! An engagement ring, I'm sure!" Mrs. Bennet tried to grab her daughter's hand again to confirm her suspicions. "It is, isn't it, Lizzie?"
Elizabeth, unable to avoid it any longer, replied "Yes, Mama, it is an engagement ring! Now, please sit down!"
"Let me see it!" Mrs. Bennet sat next to Elizabeth and began to examine the object of her interest. "My, but it is beautiful! And expensive, too, I'll warrant." She looked at her daughter crossly. "This is getting very tiresome, Lizzie, this habit of yours. You can be very irksome keeping everything to yourself."
Mr. Bennet was leaning forward in his chair, an expression of grave concern on his face. "I don't believe it, Lizzie! Who is the man? You've kept it pretty quiet, all right."
Elizabeth knew that her father's feelings were hurt by her secrecy. "You have met him before, if you'll recall. He's a friend of Charles." She bit her lip, and plunged on. "Will Darcy." Elizabeth waited for it to fully sink in, anticipating the worst. She wasn't disappointed.
"Oh, Lizzie, you have done well!" cried her mother in an abrupt reversal of tone. "Imagine the jewels, the clothes you'll have! Oh, oh, it's just too good to be true!"
Mr. Bennet's reception of the news was no less effusive, though on a very different tack. "Lizzie, are you out of your mind? I thought you hated the man! He is such an arrogant, unpleasant.......Do not feel you need to marry him just for the security of situation. Do anything but commit yourself to such an unhappy arrangement!"
Mrs. Bennet grew alarmed. "Don't be ridiculous! How could she possibly be unhappy in such surroundings as he can provide? And our grandson will be well attended to with all the staff he must have on his estate!"
Mr. Bennet bolted up from his chair with a derisive snort and paced the floor. Elizabeth grew more agitated with her father's uneasiness at her news.
"I assure you, Papa, I am not marrying him merely because of concern for my son's and my financial security! I do love him. And he is not so unpleasant as you think. In fact he is quite the opposite."
With an "Oh, pish posh!" Mrs. Bennet dismissed the whole of her husband's concerns. "What does it matter if he is so grim and proud? Lizzie will have plenty of things to occupy her and keep her out of his way."
True to form, Mr. Bennet thought, my wife has missed the whole point of the matter! She cannot see beyond a bank statement! He looked at his favourite daughter's worried expression. Sitting beside her, he took her hand and squeezed it. "Lizzie, perhaps there is something in what you say." He saw the tension ease in her features. "After all, if he's generous enough to love you, and want to marry you, taking on another man's child in the process; he can't be all bad." He smiled and patted her hand.
Elizabeth looked down at her lap, embarrassed by the fact that there was still one little piece of information still unrevealed.
"Oh, Lizzie, tell me! When did he ask you?"
Four years ago. "This afternoon, at Jane's." For once Elizabeth was grateful for her mother's interruption.
Mrs. Bennet went on enthusiastically. "Well, we must begin plans for the wedding. It will have to be in the summer. I'm sure we can arrange with the vicar to cancel anything he has scheduled, that might interfere. Let's see....we'll need to draw up the guest list! Dear Will must have hundreds of people to invite!"
Her mother went on ad infinitum, but Elizabeth tuned it all out. Her father left them to go for a walk, not willing to listen to his wife's inane prattle any longer than necessary.
After an hour of incessant chatter, Elizabeth felt that her head was going to explode. Finally, Mrs. Bennet fell silent. Her daughter looked up to see a nurse approaching them.
"Mrs. Bingley is asking for you, Miss Bennet." said the young man.
Thank you Jane! Elizabeth jumped up and hurried after the nurse. Mr. Bennet returned to sit with his wife, a newspaper in hand.
"Have you quite finished arranging Lizzie's life?" he said drily.
Mrs. Bennet glared at him. "Well, she certainly hasn't done a very good job of it herself up until now!" She turned her eyes away to look anywhere but at her husband. Quite suddenly, her expression changed, and a huge smile spread across her face. Tapping her husband on the arm, she said "Look! There's Lizzie's young man, now! And he has William with him."
Mr. Bennet looked in the direction his wife indicated. He spotted his grandson easily enough. He was towering over everyone as he sat on Will Darcy's shoulders. William was laughing in delight as he was bounced along with every step. But Elizabeth's father wasn't laughing. His eyes narrowed as the missing pieces of the puzzle began to fall into place. The evident connection between his grandson and Will Darcy, however, was not something which immediately endeared the younger man to his favour.
Somebody had a lot of explaining to do! Mr. Bennet thought angrily.
Part Fourteen
Somebody has a lot of explaining to do! Mr. Bennet thought angrily.
"My dear, dear, Will!" Mrs. Bennet cried, flinging herself across the intervening space.
Will stopped in his tracks, eyes widening in surprise. "Mrs. Bennet!" he said, his face registering his shock at her appearance. Will cast a hurried glance around the room until he spotted Elizabeth's father, whose stone features housed a glare so cold that he could feel it pass through his body like a knife. Will swallowed self-consciously, then realized that Mrs. Bennet was still speaking to him.
"....the summer. It will be so perfect! What do you think?" She looked at him expectantly.
Not having the smallest idea what she was on about, he replied absently, "Yes....yes, it will be perfect. Indeed."
Mrs. Bennet looked at him curiously. Her gaze traveled upwards to where her grandson sat, pushing a toy car through her soon-to-be son-in-law's unruly curls. Well, perhaps Lizzie's right after all. He doesn't seem to be quite so unpleasant as I remember. She's very fortunate, for he seems to have enough patience to deal with our William. I'd never have believed it. They could make a nice little family, yes indeed. Why, William even looks a bit like him! She gave a small satisfied chuckle, then suddenly gasped as she realized what she'd just said. She narrowed her eyes and observed the pair before her with renewed interest. No...a lot more than a bit like him..........I do declare that daughter of mine is a lot more clever than I gave her credit!
Will hadn't noticed the unusually lengthy silence from the woman standing before him. His thoughts were entirely on the man across the room; the man who mercilessly held him in his gaze. Oh, Elizabeth, what did you tell your parents when you discovered you were pregnant? What did you say about the father of your baby? Did you tell them I left you? He returned his attention to Elizabeth's mother, only to realize that she, too, had figured out the truth. There was a predatory gleam in her eye that he recognized all too well.
"Shall we go sit down?" he asked in a voice he hardly knew for his own.
Mrs. Bennet smiled and led the way back to where her husband was waiting for them. "I must say, you and Lizzie are just full of surprises, aren't you?" she twittered.
"I beg your pardon?" Will croaked.
"Surprises, Mr. Darcy," said Elizabeth's father in a low voice. His eyes never left Will's face as he enunciated slowly, "Unexpected occurrences."
Will's stomach did a slow roll.
"Your engagement!" laughed Mrs. Bennet. "But of course, you wouldn't know that Lizzie has told us!"
Will looked quickly about the room. "Elizabeth? Has she returned from Jane already?" He held up the bag he'd been carrying. "I....uh......brought her something to eat."
"Oh, she did. And then Jane asked for her again. I don't understand why she didn't ask for me? I am her mother, after all!" She looked at Will's flushed face. "I suppose I could go and ask at the desk for someone to fetch her." She moved away toward the nurse's station, leaving her husband to entertain their daughter's fiancé.
"Daddy, I want down," said William, impatiently squirming.
Lifting him up and off of his shoulders, Will placed the boy in an empty chair and knelt down facing him. Pulling the rest of the toy cars from a pocket, Will whispered. "Now, you play quietly for a few minutes, and when Mummy comes back we'll ask her about getting those things we saw in the shop window." He kissed William's cheek and then stood, turning to face Mr. Bennet.
Elizabeth's father merely watched him for a minute before speaking. "I seem to have been kept a bit in the dark, here," he began in a cold, quiet voice. "Although it appears that my grandson has not! I'd appreciate an explanation."
Will wasn't sure how to begin. It would be most unchivalrous to lay the blame at Elizabeth's door. But the truth was, if she had told him of her condition in the beginning, he wouldn't be in this position right now. Not knowing what excuses she may have provided for his absence, Will could only hope that what he was about to say would appease her father's ruffled feathers. Before he could utter a word, however, Mr. Bennet rose to face him, eye to eye.
"Then again, I'm not sure any explanation would satisfy me! I can't begin to comprehend how two people, one of whom detested the other, could possibly have conceived a child together!" He paused, his eyes narrowing. "Whatever else may have been said about you by the gossips of Meryton when you first came to town, I had at least believed you to be an honourable man. How dare you show your face in my presence!" He turned on his heel and strode from the room.
Will watched him leave, working over the man's words in his mind. His anger began to burn as he realized just what those words implied. I can't believe it! I just can't believe it! He practically accused me of assaulting his daughter!! Good God Almighty, he thinks that I........! He let out an explosive oath, frightening William, and causing a number of people to look at him in alarm. The little boy began to cry, and Will bent down to wrap his arms around his son, trying to restore the calm. But he felt far from calm, himself, and certainly inadequate to this task. William continued to cry, calling for his mother.
Mrs. Bennet appeared at his elbow, a flurry of concerns. "What on earth is the matter? What's upset you, my dear boy?"
William wailed louder and clung to his father. Will's frustration mounted. He was furious with Elizabeth's father, impatient with her mother, and now the inability to comfort his son was threatening to overwhelm him.
"William! Oh, come here, sweetheart," Elizabeth suddenly appeared and William scrambled into her arms. Holding him tightly, she rocked him gently, peering over his head at Will. "What happened?"
Will considered his reply. How could he tell her what had just transpired with her father? Shaking his head, he muttered, "It's my fault. I....lost my patience and.....raised my voice." He gazed sadly at the figure of his son who was loudly sniffling from the vicinity of Elizabeth's shoulder. "I'm sorry, William."
Elizabeth smiled. "He'll be fine," she assured him. "I think he's just overtired. Perhaps you could do me a favour and take him home now."
Unwilling to leave Elizabeth to face her father without him, Will objected. "Surely we won't be here much longer. He'll be all right for another hour or so, won't he?"
Elizabeth relented. "Ok, but if Jane takes any longer than that, you will take him home for me?"
Will nodded reluctantly. Wearily, he sat down. Suddenly recalling the bag he'd brought back with him, he said, "I brought you a sandwich, as you requested, my dear."
"Oh, thanks! I'm starved." Elizabeth eagerly reached for the bag, then frowned. Handing William over to his father, she smiled and said, "He's calmed down now, so maybe he'll sit quietly with you." She drew the sandwich from the bag, unwrapped it and bit into it with a sigh.
Will pulled his son onto his lap and held him close. William snuggled up to him and soon drifted off to sleep.
Mrs. Bennet nudged her daughter's arm and whispered, "That's a pretty picture, isn't it? Father and son." She winked at Elizabeth. Elizabeth simply stared at her mother. "Oh, come now, Lizzie! One would need to be blind not to see the resemblance! I don't know how you managed it, but I am very pleased with you, my dear. I only wonder why you took so long to snare him?"
Elizabeth felt like crawling under her chair. Is that what she thinks? That it was all an elaborate plot to snare Will? Suddenly noticing that her father was nowhere to be seen, she turned back to her mother. "Where is Papa? He doesn't think that Will......that I......?!" Her voice trailed off in alarm.
Mrs. Bennet patted Elizabeth's arm gently. "Oh, he hasn't gone far. He had a word with your fiancé, and I think it upset him. You are his favourite, Lizzie." She leaned closer. "You know your father simply doesn't understand what we women have to do sometimes."
Elizabeth thought she was going to be ill. What is happening? I was so happy. Everything was going perfectly! Will and I finally worked it out.....We're getting married! Jane's having her baby......and my parents have to show up and turn everything upside down! What on earth did Papa say to Will? She looked at her son, peacefully sleeping, his father's arms holding him securely. Will appeared to be lost in thought, his eyes focused on nothing in particular, his one hand absently stroking William's curly hair. Well, I won't let any member of my family ruin this for me. Not now. I'm sorry, Papa, if you don't approve, but I've waited far too long for this wonderful man. Don't force me to choose between you.
"Oh, Lizzie, there's your father now. See? I told you he hadn't gone far." Mrs. Bennet simpered.
Elizabeth looked toward the doorway where her father stood, silently watching her. She rose from her chair and crossed the room to stand in front of him.
"Papa...." she said hesitantly.
Mr. Bennet shook his head ever so slightly. "Not here. Not with your mother present. I will speak with you at home. Alone." He cast a withering glance in Will's direction. "And don't bring him with you!"
Part Fifteen
Elizabeth stared at her father, not knowing what to make of his remark. "What's brought this on? I thought you understood my decision, and supported me in it?"
"That was before I knew the whole story. Did you neglect to tell us something, Elizabeth?" Mr. Bennet's eyes turned to her with an evident sorrow. "How could you allow that man access to your son? It's no wonder you moved away from us if you intended to keep their relationship a secret. Manchester is a lot closer to Derbyshire than Meryton! Just how often does he pay his visits?"
Elizabeth's mouth fell open. "I.....Papa, it's not –"
A crashing of doors suddenly heralded Charles' entrance to the waiting room.
"It's a boy!" he crowed. He rushed over to his father-in-law and clapped him heartily on the back. "It's a boy!" he repeated, grinning inanely.
Not one to be left out, Mrs. Bennet hurried to join them. "That is wonderful news, my dear Charles! An heir for you! And what of our dearest Jane? How is she? Is she asking for me? She must be absolutely worn! I must go to her right away!"
"NO!" all three said in unison.
"No," Charles continued in a more subdued tone. "They'll be moving her to another room shortly. You'll be able to see her then."
Elizabeth's eyes sparkled as she asked her brother-in-law "And your son? Who does he look like, and what have you named him?"
He pushed his shoulders back and proudly stated "Robert Charles Bingley!" Then he broke into a beaming smile once again. "Oh, Lizzie, he's an angel! He looks just like Jane!"
"Of course he's an angel," oozed Mrs. Bennet. "How could he not be? Jane is such a sweet, darling girl. And she'll be a perfect mother. And you, Charles, are so good-natured and kind.....why your son will be a joy!"
Charles could hardly disagree with her, and his eyes then sought out his friend, still sitting quietly a little distance away. "Will! Will, did you hear? Jane's had a boy! We have a son, too!" He crossed the room in three strides.
Will was indeed overjoyed for his friend, and his smile was broad as he clasped Charles' hand. "Yes, congratulations, Charles! I'm sure you will both be ideal parents."
Mrs. Bennet squealed, "Now, we shall have quite the addition to our dinner on Sunday. What with the new baby, and of course you are coming, too, aren't you Will?" She looked to Elizabeth rather than the gentleman for confirmation. Elizabeth inclined her head.
"Mr. Bingley?" enquired a nurse. "We've moved your wife and son to a new room. If you'd like to follow me, I'll show you the way." He glanced at the assembled group. "You may bring other family members, if you like."
Charles looked to Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. "Would you like to come with me? Elizabeth? Will?"
Elizabeth nodded eagerly. Her father also nodded his agreement, and Mrs. Bennet cried, "Oh, yes! Of course, dear boy! Let us go at once!"
Will shook his head and indicated the sleeping child in his arms. "I'll wait here for you."
Charles shrugged his shoulders. Nothing could dampen the joy he felt at this moment. Following the nurse, Charles led his forces on and out of the room.
Will pulled his own son closer to his chest. He envied Charles this moment. How he wished he'd been with Elizabeth throughout the months of anticipation, and the anxious hours leading up to William's birth. Then he smiled as he recalled Elizabeth's words: You can be with me the next time.
About an hour later, Will was unlocking the car and tucking William into the back seat. Charles had offered to sit with the young boy on the way home. The new father was still chattering away as he stood with Elizabeth and her mother next to the Bennet's car.
A soft footstep behind him caused Will to spin around quickly. "Oh, Mr. Bennet," he said warily.
The older man eyed him carefully. "I didn't want to make a scene in such a public place," he said.
Will gently closed the car door so as not to disturb William. Facing Elizabeth's father once more, he waited to hear what else the man had to say.
"But I have no such reservations, here." There was a sharp crack as Mr. Bennet's fist made contact with Will's jaw. Caught totally off-guard, the blow sent the young man reeling backward. Mr. Bennet watched as he slid down the side of the car to land face first on the pavement.
Will wasted no time in pushing himself up to a more defensible position. He had no idea what to expect from this man, and observed him through narrowed eyes.
But the altercation had not gone unnoticed. Charles rushed over to grab his father-in-law's arms before he could inflict any more damage. Elizabeth knelt down beside her fiancé, fingers gently probing the area of impact. Mrs. Bennet stood motionless and speechless where they had left her.
Will shook off Elizabeth's attentions and climbed to his feet. He glared at his attacker, then without a word, walked around the car to climb in behind the wheel.
Elizabeth stared at her father, but it was Mrs. Bennet who voiced what everyone was thinking. "Just what the hell did you do that for? That man is marrying your daughter. He's the father of your grandson! If you haven't succeeded in driving him away, then I suspect you may have alienated your dear Lizzie!"
"Yes, Papa, what on earth was that for?!" Elizabeth demanded.
Mr. Bennet looked from one to the other of the women. "Lizzie, do you think it wise to be speaking of this out here?"
Elizabeth let out an exasperated breath. "You are my father, not my keeper. I want to know right now what just happened! Why did you feel compelled to thump Will? Was it because he wasn't around when I was pregnant? I can't believe you find that excuse enough!" Her eyes bored into him.
"All right, Lizzie. I'll tell you why I did it." Mr. Bennet stole a glance through the window of the car, seeing the back of Will's head silhouetted in the lamplight. "Here are the facts as I can see them. Will Darcy arrives at Netherfield four years ago. Everyone hates him, yourself included. If you ever changed your mind, Lizzie, you never said anything. A year later my daughter announces that she's pregnant, but won't tell anyone who the father is. Three years after that, I discover, quite by accident, that a man she hates is the father of her son! How did this come about? How does a woman become pregnant by a man she can't stand to be in the same room with? Hmmm?"
Elizabeth opened her mouth, and closed it again. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. "You amaze me. I'm utterly appalled at the complete stupidity of that.....that......How could you think such a thing!" she sputtered. Turning on her heel, Elizabeth stalked back to the car. Opening the door, she paused and said, "My son....our son, was created by two people who felt nothing but the deepest love for one another. If not for the interference of others, we would have been happily married years ago! I never told Will that I was pregnant, and he only found out that he has a son a couple of days ago. So think on that! He's suffered enough because of my foolishness. I can only imagine what your disgusting accusations have done!"
With that, she climbed into the car and slammed the door. The engine turned over and, realizing that he would be left behind, Charles leaped into the back as the car began to pull away.
Mrs. Bennet looked at her husband in disbelief. "And they call me feather-brained!"
Part Sixteen
Will stormed through the front doors of Netherfield straight to the library. Elizabeth made to follow him, but Charles stayed her with a hand on her arm.
"No, let me." He nodded at a sleepy-eyed William, clinging to Elizabeth's hand. "Go get the little fellow settled into bed and then come down. I'll see if I can settle the big fellow!"
Sighing, Elizabeth picked up William and hurried up the stairs. Charles entered the library. He noticed that his friend had poured himself a drink and was now standing by the fire, staring into the flames. Will looked up at Charles as he approached.
"I'm sorry for all the trouble, Charles," he began. "This was supposed to be one of the happiest moments of your life, and I seem doomed to be spreading unhappiness wherever I go!"
"Don't be so hard on yourself, Will." Charles laid his hand on the other man's shoulder.
Will shook his head. "I had hoped I could resolve this misunderstanding with her father without Elizabeth needing to hear his accusation. I seem to have been down this road so many times; misunderstandings, accusations, explanations. Do you think I'll ever be able to have a normal life like you, Charles?" He started to smile, than winced as the movement brought fresh pain to his bruised face.
"Here, let me look at that." Charles examined Will's face, already beginning to show a purpling along the jawline. "Nasty job. I never knew Jane's father had it in him!"
"I'd have preferred not to find out!" Will retorted. He drained his glass and put it down. Running his fingers gently over the bruised area, he said "I thought he'd broken my jaw, but it seems to be intact. And I still have all my teeth at least! I suppose I should consider myself fortunate, though. If I'd been in his shoes, thinking what he thought, I sure as hell wouldn't have stopped with one swing!" He felt the left side of his mouth. "Swelling's started already, too. My, what a colourful sight I'll be tomorrow!"
"Would you like something to put on that?" Charles asked in sympathy.
Will looked at his friend, a gleam appearing in his eyes. "Yes......Elizabeth."
Charles laughed. "Somehow, I don't think that will be a problem!"
At that moment, Elizabeth herself joined them, relieved to hear the sound of laughter in the room. Charles glanced from one to the other as the couple eyed each other across the length of the room.
"Yes, well....I'll leave you to it then." he muttered as he backed away and out the door.
Will held out a hand, beckoning Elizabeth closer. "Come here, my dear. I could use some of your tender ministrations right about now." His feeble attempt at a smile elicited a giggle from the lady. His eyebrows rose and she laughed. "Well, if you won't come to me......." he said suggestively, and quickly crossed the room to sweep her up into his arms.
He began with a gentle kiss; a soft brush of their lips. Then again, and the kiss became stronger, more passionate. Ignoring the searing pain from his damaged mouth, Will's lips traveled along Elizabeth's jaw, down her throat; slowly, ever so slowly. His attention was drawn to the creamy white skin of her exposed shoulders, and he trace the line of her collarbone with his tongue. Tracing back once more, he gently nipped his way up her neck to pause at her earlobe, whispering:
"Have I left you in any doubt as to my intentions, dearest Elizabeth?"
She moaned by way of reply, then drew back. Will watched incredulously as she reached into the cleavage of her blouse and withdrew.....a key!
"Shall I?" She motioned to the door with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes.
He laughed, low and throaty. "Actually, I'd prefer if we went upstairs. It will be infinitely more comfortable, I'm sure." His own eyes twinkling, he reached for the hand holding the key. "Perhaps I should put this back?"
It was Elizabeth's turn to laugh. As she tilted her head back, Will captured her mouth once again with his, and drew her close. A moment later, she pushed herself free, breathlessly facing him.
"Either we go upstairs now, or you use that key," she purred, running a finger down the middle of his chest.
Will grabbed her hand and pulled her from the room. He strode briskly through the hall to the stairs, Elizabeth nearly running to keep up. Halfway up the staircase he suddenly stopped. With a groan he turned back to her.
"What is it?" she asked, alarmed.
Another groan. "I just remembered that I promised to call Georgiana tonight to let her know what happened."
"Surely you can do that in the morning!" Elizabeth asked impatiently.
"Oh, no," Will replied. "If I don't call her she'll call here, and believe me, she will demand to speak with me! I'd much rather call her now, before we go up, than be interrupted later." He looked Elizabeth straight in the eye. "My dear, I have no intention of sharing you with anyone until breakfast tomorrow morning."
She blushed. "Well then, let's call her. I have a telephone in my room." She winked at him and raced up the stairs, Will in hot pursuit.
Once in her room, they collapsed, laughing, onto the bed. Will reached across Elizabeth to pull the telephone closer. He quickly punched in his sister's number as he glanced at the clock on the bedside table. It wasn't yet ten o'clock. Georgiana picked up on the third ring.
"Georgie?"
"Will!" she cried. "It's my brother," he heard her say to someone. "What happened with Elizabeth? What took you so long to call me?"
"Sorry it's so late, Georgie, but Jane went into labour this afternoon, and I was at the hospital all this time." He was in the mood to toy with his sister a bit.
"I'm sure that's very exciting, Will, and any other time I'd want to hear all about it," Georgiana said impatiently, "but what happened with Elizabeth?"
Will winked at the lady laying beside him as he replied, "Jane had a boy. They've named him Robert Charles." Elizabeth stuffed a fist into her mouth to stop from laughing out loud.
"Tell them congratulations for me! Now, Will, answer my question! Did you ask Elizabeth to marry you or not?" She was beginning to worry at the way he was evading her.
"No, I didn't."
Georgiana was silent a moment. "Oh, Will," she said pitifully. "You were so determined. Why didn't you go through with it?"
Will could barely contain himself. Only the pain in his face kept him from laughing. "Because she asked me first!"
He heard nothing from the other end for several minutes. Then Georgiana hissed, "Thank your lucky stars you aren't within slapping distance, Fitzwilliam Darcy, or you'd be feeling one from me!"
That's all right, Georgie, he thought wryly. Elizabeth's father gave me one for you.
"I am ecstatic for you both, Will, but if you ever do that to me again," his sister continued, "I really will give you a slap! May I speak with Elizabeth?"
"Sure." Will handed the receiver to his fiancé.
Elizabeth sat up and put the phone to her ear. "Hi, Georgiana."
"Elizabeth Bennet, you are one secretive lady! I never suspected a thing." Georgiana said. "I am really pleased that you and my brother managed to sort this out. You don't know how thrilled I am for you both!"
"Thank you, Georgiana. I still find it hard to believe that everything has turned out this way. I've loved your brother for so long.....you can't imagine the torture you inflicted whenever you mentioned his name!"
"I'm sorry, Elizabeth. If I'd had the slightest idea......"
"You would have done something to get us together sooner!" Elizabeth laughed.
Georgiana laughed, too. "You're probably right! But I must thank you once again for advising me about Brian. If you hadn't encouraged me, we would never have gotten together."
"Then you have returned the favour already, for if you hadn't spoken of me to your brother on those weekends when you were at home, he would never have come to Netherfield to see me." Elizabeth responded.
"I'm so glad I could be of help, then!" A voice in the background could be heard, and Elizabeth smiled as she realized it must be the aforementioned Brian. "Oh, Brian sends his thanks, too. And his congratulations! I guess I shouldn't keep you any longer. You and Will probably have some family things to do, what with your sister's new baby and all."
Elizabeth glanced sidelong at Will, who was contemplating the hollow of her neck rather closely. "Yeah, you're right. We do have a couple of things to do yet tonight"
"Okay, then. I'll let you go." Georgiana said. "Oh, is it okay if I visit you on Saturday? I'd really like to see you....and William."
Elizabeth smiled. "Of course. You'd be more than welcome. When can you get here?"
"Oh, how's noon?
"Sounds fine. Are you bringing Brian?" Elizabeth asked, ignoring the look Will sent her.
"If that's ok?" Georgiana sounded a bit skeptical.
"Perfect! I'll be waiting for you."
"Thanks, Elizabeth. Say good-bye to Will for me. I don't think he's quite ready yet to talk about Brian. Come to think of it, I don't think I'm ready to talk to him about Brian yet, either." Georgiana quickly rang off.
Elizabeth put the telephone back on the table and turned to Will.
"What was that about Georgie and Brian coming here?" he demanded.
Elizabeth snuggled up to him and nibbled his ear. "Will, are you going to talk about your sister all night? Or did you perhaps have something else in mind?" She began undoing the buttons on his shirt.
He had no verbal answer to that question. Instead, he rolled Elizabeth over onto her back and pressed his mouth against hers. Her lips were sweet and warm.
"Did you lock the door?" he murmured.
"Who cares...." Elizabeth replied, and attacked his clothing with renewed vigour.
Indeed! he thought.
Part Seventeen
A sharp jab in his back awakened Will. He groaned and shifted his position. He felt a warm body snuggle up to him and smiled. Then he felt another jab. Rolling over, he opened an eye, prepared to give Elizabeth an earful.
"William!" he said in surprise. The boy's own eyes were wide and solemn, his finger poised for another strike. Will glanced at the bedside clock and groaned again. Six-fifteen! Does he get up this early every morning? He peered over at Elizabeth, still sound asleep, her hair strewn about the pillow and a small pout on her lips. Will would have loved to sample that pout, but for a certain small person entrenched in the space between them.
"Mummy?" William turned his attention in the same direction as his father. He poked his finger into his mother's ribs this time. Elizabeth frowned and removed his hand. Without opening her eyes, she muttered, "Don't do that, William. Go back to sleep."
The boy snuggled himself under the blankets and closed his eyes. Will stared in disbelief. Wait a minute! It can't be that easy! Put out by the thought that he was now wide awake, while Elizabeth continued to enjoy her sleep, Will had a wicked thought.
Snaking his hand under the blankets, he extended a finger and pushed it into Elizabeth's side.
"William!" she muttered, frowning again.
Will grinned and repeated the action. This finally motivated Elizabeth to open her eyes. Her annoyed expression faded when she focused on the man sharing her bed.
"Shame on you Will Darcy, letting your son take the blame for your own childish behaviour!"
Will pretended to be wounded by her accusation. Then, winking at William, he took the boy's hand and poked the small finger into Elizabeth's side once more. William giggled. His mother gave them both a long-suffering look. Raising her own hand, she plunged it into William's ribs, tickling him. As Will laughed at the boy's squirming, giggling form, he failed to notice Elizabeth's other hand reach out to inflict the same punishment on himself.
"Hey!" he cried, attempting to twist out of her reach. He was unsuccessful, however, and Elizabeth pressed her advantage, driving her fingers up his ribcage. But it didn't last long as William, enjoying a brief reprieve, joined in the fray, allowing Will an opportunity to retaliate.
The sounds of their merriment filled the room and, further down the hall, a maid paused in her work as the peals of laughter reached her ears.
Across the breakfast table William giggled.
Elizabeth gave him a sharp look. "Don't be silly, William. Eat your cereal." She turned her gaze toward Will, knowing him to be the cause of her son's mirth. "And you behave yourself, too!" Will's eyebrows rose in innocent query.
Charles laughed at them. "Less than twenty-four hours engaged and Will's already in the doghouse!"
Elizabeth ignored the comment, as well as the snickering emanating from the vicinity of her son. Instead, she addressed her brother-in-law. "When do you pick up Jane and the baby?"
Charles eyes shone with happiness. "I'm going directly after breakfast, but they won't be discharged until eleven."
"Wonderful! You'll be home before lunch, then." Elizabeth said. He nodded. "We spoke to Georgiana last night, Charles, and told her the news. She wants to come down tomorrow. I told her it was ok."
"Yeah, that's fine. I bet she was surprised to hear about you two!"
Will spoke up. "No, not really. I went to Georgiana's the night I stormed out of here. She was very.......helpful, to say the least."
Charles looked a bit closer at his friend. "I see you do look rather colourful this morning, Will. I hope Georgie doesn't panic when she sees you."
Will grunted in reply. He'd been shocked to discover the extent of the bruising when he'd shaved this morning. A rainbow of colour had spread from just below the left side of his mouth, along his jaw halfway to the eye in shades of blue, purple and black. Not to mention what a rattling his teeth had taken with the blow. He wondered what Mr. Bennet was thinking, after that speech of Elizabeth's last night.
"She'll just think I smacked him!" Elizabeth laughed. Then she sobered. "I suppose I should go to Longbourn to talk with Papa."
"Elizabeth," Will ventured, "do you think we can go for one day without mentioning either of your parents? We will see them soon enough, if we are going there for dinner on Sunday."
She looked surprised. "I thought you'd want to cancel that. I mean, my father's accusations were so.....so.....I didn't think you could bear to be in the same room with him!"
Will met her eyes and said in a low voice, "I would brave the fires of hell, so long as I still have you, my dear." He paused. "Now, may we have that one day?" he asked plaintively.
Elizabeth smiled. "I'll give you two! No more until Sunday."
Wiping his mouth, Charles rose and said, "Well, I'm off. What are your plans today? Will you be here when we get back?"
"Certainly!" Elizabeth replied. "I want to help Jane settle in, and make sure she gets her rest."
Will glanced across the table at his fiancee. "I need to make a trip to Pemberley. There are a few things I need to see to, since I've been away a little longer than I had anticipated." He looked at his son seated beside him. "Would you mind if I took William along with me?"
Elizabeth hesitated. Her son had never been so far away from her before. "Are you sure you're up to it? He might get a bit difficult if I'm not with you."
"I'll have to learn sometime, Elizabeth. No time like the present. Besides, there are plenty of staff who are more familiar with children if I do have trouble." Will tousled the boy's hair. "I think Mrs. Reynolds will be over the moon to see you, young man!" William laughed and tried to grab his father's arm. Elizabeth relented.
Charles said his good-byes to them, and hurried out of the house. Elizabeth ushered William upstairs to change.
"I'll need to pack a few things for you to take. How long do you think you'll be?" Elizabeth asked.
Will said tentatively, "I was hoping to stay overnight." At the look on her face he almost reconsidered. "I do have a lot of work to catch up on, Elizabeth. If you don't want me to take him, just tell me."
"No, it's not that." She sounded disappointed. "I just didn't think you'd abandon me quite so soon."
Will shook his head, smiling. "You are more than welcome to come with me. As a matter of fact I wanted to talk to you about the two of you moving up there."
Elizabeth's eyes sparkled at such a happy thought. "That sounds like a brilliant idea. But as for today, I should really stay for Jane. That's what brought me here, after all!"
She reached for William's clothes and began sorting through for suitable items to pack.
"Surely he doesn't need all that for one night?" Will asked as he watched her stuff four pairs of pants, and half a dozen shirts into a carry-all.
Elizabeth looked at him disdainfully. "You just have no concept, do you? Well, you wanted to find out...." she said cryptically, as she returned to the packing. Adding William's favourite animal blanket, and a number of toys, she finally closed the bag and handed it to Will.
He took it and immediately set it down on a chair. Sweeping Elizabeth to him with his arm, he planted his lips firmly on her mouth. He could feel her body relax in his grip, as a soft moan murmured deep in her throat. Reluctantly breaking away, Will took a deep breath and stepped back.
"Come on, William. We'd better get going if we're to make it home before lunch."
William ran to his mother. She picked him up and hugged him fiercely. "You be a good boy for Daddy, you hear?"
"I will, Mummy."
She kissed him on the cheek and let him down. "I'll ring you at bedtime, ok?"
William nodded, and traipsed out the door. Will picked up the carry-all, blew a kiss to Elizabeth and followed his son.
Elizabeth sighed. She would miss them both tonight.
The trip had been long, the traffic on the motorway heavy, but as the Jaguar made the final turn toward Pemberley, Will gave a sigh of relief. Only a few more miles to go and we'll be home! He stole a glance at the sleeping boy next to him. A tender smile touched his mouth as he marveled at how his life had changed so dramatically in the last few days. And now I'm bringing my son home. I can't wait to see Mrs. Reynolds' face when she sees William! Will chuckled to himself.
The car purred into an empty bay in the garage, and Will turned off the motor. William stirred in the sudden silence and gave a little whimper. Quickly gathering up their belongings, Will slung the bags over one shoulder and gently lifted his son from the car. William whimpered again, but snuggled up to his father, eyes slitted in a groggy state of half awareness.
The wind was cold, so Will walked briskly to the front of the house. The door was opened to admit them by a footman, his eyes the only thing betraying his surprise at the sight before him.
"Please ask Mrs. Reynolds to join me in the east drawing room, Stephens." Will never paused on his way through the front hall.
In the drawing room, he laid William on the sofa. Then he pulled the animal blanket from the bag that Elizabeth had packed and tucked it securely around the tiny form. He stepped back to admire the picture. Smiling, he walked over to the fire and stoked up the flames in the hearth. William's sleepy gaze followed his father's figure as he moved about the room.
A rattle of the door handle signaled the entrance of Mrs. Reynolds, and Will turned to address her.
"Mrs. Reynolds, I require your--" He stopped at the expression on the woman's face. "What is it?"
"Sir! Mr. Darcy!" she cried. "What on earth happened? Did you have an accident? Were you knocked down?"
Will suddenly remembered his battered appearance, and smiled reassuringly. "In a manner of speaking." Seeing her confused expression, he quickly continued. "Forgive me. I've had an eventful week."
The housekeeper continued to stare at him in disbelief. She'd known Fitzwilliam Darcy since he was a wee boy, barely four years old, and had never seen him in such an appalling state. If she didn't know better, she might be tempted to think he'd been in a brawl! The poor lad! He's had such a terrible time of it the last few years. What he really needs is a young lady to love him and care for him. Or even one to just warm his bed! He can't go on this way for too much longer.
"Mrs. Reynolds."
She started and blushed. He was looking at her curiously.
"Mrs. Reynolds, I have quite a number of things to attend to this afternoon, and will likely be tied up on the telephone and the computer most of the time. I'd like to be able to complete everything today, as I am expected to return to Netherfield tomorrow morning."
Netherfield? Is that where he's been all week?
Will continued without noticing her faraway look. "I need you to look after something for me while I'm busy." He waited for her to respond.
"Oh! I'm sorry, sir, what would you like me to do?"
Will motioned to the sofa where William lay, eyes wide open now, watching them. Mrs. Reynolds eyes opened even wider. She looked to her employer for an explanation.
Will inclined his head ever so slightly. "My son, Mrs. Reynolds."