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Chapter 29
Author's Note: I just realized that I wrote a few inconsistencies in the last post. I referred to Darcy and Fitzwilliam as Lady C's nephews and earlier I wrote that Lady C and Darcy's mother were best friends not sisters. Also, Bill referred to Lizzy as "Cousin Elizabeth." Due to that whole cousins marrying cousins thing, I'm going back to the best friends scenario, though Darcy and Fitzwilliam refer to her as aunt. Sorry for the confusion, I guess I was still thinking in Regency terms.
Dinner at Lady Catherine's was interesting to say the least. Lizzy found "Lady C" to be egotistical, belligerent, and even more condescending than William Darcy. Now I know where he gets it, she thought.
Anne de Bourge was a thin, pale girl who never got the opportunity to speak because her mother always spoke for her. Lizzy noticed, however, that every now and then, there was a flash of something in Anne's eyes, especially when Lady C asked Anne a question then proceeded to answer it for her.
Bill spent most of his time agreeing with everything that Lady C said. Mr. Lucas was mentally taking notes of names and anecdotes. Charlotte was respectfully quiet and Maria sat as still as possible as though she were afraid that any movement would displease the old lady.
Thankfully, at a reasonably early hour, Lady C dropped the hint that they should be going and Charlotte picked up on it.
For the first 72 hours, Lizzy had a restful time. She walked early in the morning, spent the afternoons with Charlotte and Maria and the evenings quietly laughing over the absurdity of dinner at Lady Catherine's. Mr. Lucas stayed only a few days, long enough to satisfy himself that his daughter was well settled.
One day after her walk, Bill greeted Lizzy at the lunch table.
"Well, Elizabeth, I have some news that will interest you." He paused for effect. "Mr. William Darcy and his cousin Col. Richard Fitzwilliam have arrived at Rosings."
Lizzy tried to smile politely but it looked more like a grimace. "Really, Bill. How fascinating."
"Yes, and there's more. Lady Catherine in her unending kindness has invited us for a cookout and pool party two days from now. Isn't that wonderful?"
Lizzy looked like she might strangle someone, namely Bill, so Charlotte jumped in. "Yes, my dear, that is good news. I think that maybe this afternoon, Elizabeth and I will go into Hunsford for a little shopping. What do you say Lizzy? I know I could use a new bathing suit."
Lizzy just closed her eyes and sort of nodded her head.
"That's an excellent idea, Charlotte," said Bill. "We must look our best for Lady Catherine and her guests. Perhaps I should come also. I could help you both pick something appropriate.
Lizzy's eyes flew open and her face flushed red.
"That won't be necessary, dear. Just leave us girls to our shopping. I promise we won't embarrass you." She stood and looked meaningfully at Lizzy. "Why don't we change and get on our way, Lizzy?"
Lizzy stood up and with one last incredulous look at Bill, followed Charlotte out of the dining room.
Chapter 30
Since it was such a nice day, the group decided to walk to the main house. Lizzy truly enjoyed the walk, partly because it took longer that driving and thereby prolonged her meeting with William Darcy, and secondly because she had grown exceedingly fond of the countryside.
They arrived and were shown through the house out to the large pool area. Lizzy gasped as she took in the sight. The pool had been designed to resemble a tropical paradise. Waterfalls, palm trees, though fake, made Lizzy think she had been transported to the Caribbean.
"Well, Lizzy, what do you think?" Charlotte whispered in her ear.
"Incredible," was all Lizzy could say. She was about to turn and join Charlotte in greeting Lady Catherine and Anne, when her eyes caught someone up on the high diving board.
The man was blond, tan and very well built. He executed a perfect dive and cut through the water like a knife. He swam to the far end of the pool and climbed out.
Lady C required Lizzy's attention so she regretfully turned her eyes away.
"Miss Bennet, I would like to introduce to two of my dearest friends. Indeed, I think of them as family." Here Lizzy noticed William Darcy sitting in a chair near Lady C. "This is William Darcy. No doubt, you've heard of him, he's president of Pemberley Airlines. The top air carrier in Europe."
Darcy stood and moved forward. "It's nice to see you again, Elizabeth." He took her hand and Lizzy thought for a moment that he would raise it to his lips, but after a moment he released it and stepped back. Turning his attention to his aunt, he said, "Miss Bennet and I have met before, Aunt Catherine. I told you about the merger with Longbourn Airways. Miss Bennet's family owns and operates Longbourn."
"I see," Lady C sniffed.
The handsome diver then approached. Before Lady C could speak, William introduced him as his cousin, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam.
Col. Fitzwilliam smiled broadly and shook Lizzy's hand. "It's a great pleasure to meet you, Miss Bennet."
"Thank you, Col. Fitzwilliam." Lizzy smiled back. He really does have a dazzling smile, she thought.
"Please, call me Richard."
"Only if you call me Lizzy."
"Agreed."
Richard turned to Darcy, "Now I see what took you to Hertfordshire, Will."
"You also know what sent him away," said Lizzy, before Darcy could speak. "The countryside was pretty enough, but the natives, Richard, what bores, what heathens. Isn't that right, William?"
William smiled, "It obviously amuses you to think so, Elizabeth."
Richard's eyebrows shot up as he watched the exchange between his usually stoic cousin and the charming lady.
Lady Catherine was growing increasingly annoyed in the conversation that she had no part in, so she called everyone's attention to herself by talking of the day's activities.
Having been given the agenda for the day, the party broke into two groups. Lady Catherine, Bill, Charlotte, Maria and Darcy sat around a table and sipped on drinks. Lizzy, Richard, and Anne moved to the end of the pool and got comfortable in lounge chairs.
"How about a swim?" said Richard after awhile.
"Sounds great," said Lizzy. "I just need to change into my suit."
"I'll show you where you can change," said Anne quietly.
The two women stood and started to make their way to the changing rooms when Lady C stopped them.
"Anne! What are you doing?"
"I'm showing Miss Bennet where she can change into her bathing suit."
"Really Anne, we have servants to do such things." Lady C started to call for a servant when William stood up.
"Don't bother, Aunt, I was just going to change myself. I'll show Elizabeth the way."
William walked over to Lizzy and motioned for her to join him. Anne, with a slight glare in her mother's direction, returned to her seat.
Lizzy followed William through an archway and down a hallway. He stopped and opened a doorway, then stood back to let Lizzy pass through.
"Light switch is just inside," he said, then crossed the hall and disappeared into another door.
Lizzy quickly changed into her new bathing suit. She had refused Charlotte's challenge to purchase a daring string bikini. Instead, she chose a simple one-piece suit in black. The legs were French cut and the neckline was low but not so low as to make swimming impossible. She stacked her clothes on the chair and tied a towel around her hips, then opened the door and walked out where William was already waiting for her. He was wearing a boxer like suit, but no shirt. He had a towel slung over his shoulder.
As they came face to face, (or rather suit to suit), both of them seemed unable to speak at first.
William tried hard to keep his eyes on Lizzy's face and not her suit. Control yourself, Darcy, he thought, she's not your style. But WOW! He shook his head slightly to try to gain control of his thoughts.
In a slightly husky voice, William suggested they join the others. Lizzy nodded silently and they walked back out to the pool.
As they walked, Lizzy was trying to forget his muscular chest and how her heart pounded when she looked up into his eyes. Snap out of it, she thought, you've seen good looking men before, remember he's just an arrogant snob.
"Well, we thought you two got lost," said Richard, with a mischievous wink at Anne, who giggled and blushed furiously.
Without a word, William tossed his towel into a chair and dove into the water. Lizzy couldn't help but watch as his muscular arms and strong legs propelled his body through the water. He had reached the far end of the pool and was turning back when Lizzy regained her senses and turned away.
This was not lost on Richard who, with another wink at Anne, said, "Will does swim very well, doesn't he, Lizzy."
With a blush, Lizzy said, "I didn't really notice, I was looking at this magnificent pool."
"Magnificent was the word I would have used," said Anne quietly to the surprise of Richard.
"Well, shall we all join him?" Richard stood and tugging Anne and Lizzy behind him moved towards the waterfall, which as they drew closer, Lizzy realized, was a slide.
"The best way is to get wet all at once," said Richard. He motioned for Lizzy and Anne to climb up to the top. With a shake of her head, Anne climbed up.
Lady C finally took notice of them and when she saw Anne preparing to go down the slide called out, "Be careful Anne." Then to Darcy, "William, dear, take care of Anne. Make sure she doesn't hurt herself."
"Don't worry, mother. I've gone down this slide a million times." With a roll of the eyes, Anne slid down and disappeared into the water.
When she surfaced, she called up to Lizzy, "The water's not cold, Lizzy, come on down."
As she pushed off, Lizzy was aware that William had stopped swimming and was watching her.
Lizzy hit the water and contrary to Anne's information, it was cold. She surfaced and looked at Anne to find her grinning.
"It's freezing!" Lizzy shouted.
"Sorry, I guess I've been spending too much time with Richard. He's rubbed off on me," she said innocently.
"I have ways of dealing with traitors," joked Lizzy. She and Anne began a fight, screaming and splashing each other.
Lizzy got turned around trying to avoid the splashing. She froze as she realized that instead of Anne, she had been splashing William.
For a moment, she thought he was going to blow his stack, but after a few minutes a grin spread across his face and he yelled, "Richard, I think these women need to be taught a lesson."
"On my way cousin," said Richard came down the slide.
For the next ten minutes, the foursome splashed and screamed. Anne and Lizzy had gotten William cornered and were practically drowning him when they heard a horrendous noise.
All activity ceased and they turned to find that in their exuberance, they had moved to the area of the pool directly in front of Lady Catherine. The last attack on William had resulted in Lady C becoming drenched.
Lady Catherine stood up and after giving them all a proper lecture on manners, stomped into the house.
For a moment, they all seemed frozen. As they looked at one another, it became evident that everyone was trying very hard not to laugh. Everyone, that is but Bill. He looked as though someone had cut off his air supply.
"Perhaps we should get dried off before we eat," suggested William while trying to keep his composure.
"Good idea," said Richard. "I hate people who come to the table soaking wet."
That did it, and the whole group broke up into hysterical laughter (except Bill, of course).
They were all just beginning to recover when a servant informed them that dinner would be served as soon as Lady C returned.
Richard and Anne swam to the far end of the pool and climbed out. Lizzy swam to the steps and began to climb out. As she neared the top step, her foot slipped and she began to fall backwards. Before she hit the water, however, two strong arms grabbed hold of her. She looked up into William's eyes.
"Thank you," she said quietly.
"You're welcome," he replied. They stood like that for what seemed like forever until they realized that everyone was looking at them.
William set Lizzy on her feet and, reluctantly, let go of her.
They all dried off in silence and gathered around table to wait for Lady Catherine.
Chapter 31
"Lady Catherine that was a truly magnificent meal," she said. She was trying to apologize somewhat for getting the old lady soaked.
"Thank you, Miss Bennet. Many people say that my taste in food is impeccable."
Unseen by Lady C, Richard looked at Lizzy and rolled his eyes. Unseen by anyone so did William.
After the table had been cleared, Lady Catherine gave her opinion on what the weather was to be for the next few days and then the nightly hint to go home was given. But before the party could break up Richard suggested that "Miss Bennet hadn't seen the moonlight view of the lake and he was sure that she wouldn't want to miss it and he would make sure that she got home safely."
Before Lady C could say anything, Richard and Anne had whisked Lizzy away down a path. After a short walk, the three of them sat on a small beach.
"This is absolutely lovely," exclaimed Lizzy.
"Yes, Anne and I walk here often when I visit," said Richard.
They sat enjoying the night air in silence for a few minutes. After a while, they could hear someone approaching.
"Must be Will," said Richard. "Aunt Catherine always sends him after us, doesn't she Anne."
"Yes," said Anne. "I don't know how but she's got it in her head that Will and I should get married. I wish I could just run away."
"You'd never get past the front gate," said Richard disdainfully as William walked up and sat down next to Lizzy.
"I've been sent to remind you, Anne, that it's cool out and you don't have a jacket," said William.
Anne sighed. Richard stood up and, brushing the sand off, said, "Come on Anne, let's get you back to the house before your mother sends out the search and rescue team." He reached down and pulled Anne to her feet.
"Lizzy, I'm glad you joined us today," said Anne. "I had a great time."
"Me too, Anne. But I think we deserve a rematch against the guys."
"You're on," said Richard. He and Anne started to walk away when Richard came back. "Hey, Lizzy, if you're free tomorrow, how'd you like to go horseback riding? Will has to go into town on business and Anne is going to be out all day."
"I'd love to. What time?" They decided where to meet and at what time and then Richard joined Anne and the two of them continued to walk. However, not before Lizzy noticed that Richard was carefully guiding Anne with his hand at the small of her back.
When she turned back around, she realized that William was smiling.
"What?"
"Nothing."
"I know that look, Mr. Darcy, you know something. Come on spill it."
"I was just wondering how long it was going to take before those two realize that they're in love."
Before Lizzy could respond, William had stood up and was offering her a hand up. "Come on, I'll walk you home."
It was a short walk to the Collins' home, so in no time at all, they were standing on the door step.
"I'd ask you in," Lizzy began, "but it looks like everyone has gone to bed. I wouldn't want to disturb them."
"Yeah. It's late and I should be getting back to my aunt's."
"Before she sends the search and rescue team out for you?"
"Exactly." He smiled a fantastic smile. Lizzy couldn't help smiling in return.
"Well," he said.
"Well," she replied.
"Goodnight, Elizabeth. Sweet dreams."
"Goodnight, William. Be careful walking back."
"Thanks. Maybe I'll see you tomorrow."
Lizzy watched him walk into the darkness. She let herself into the house and quietly went to her room. She changed clothes and got into bed. It wasn't until she was drifting off to sleep when she realized that on the walk home, William had carefully guided her by keeping his hand at the small of her back.
Chapter 31
Lizzy woke up the next morning with mixed emotions. She knew, or she thought she knew, that William Darcy was a cold, arrogant, businessman. But after seeing him relaxed and playful, she was confused. Who is the real William Darcy? she asked herself.
When she arrived at the breakfast table, Charlotte was all smiles.
"So, Lizzy, what do you think of Lady C?"
"She's exactly what I expected," laughed Lizzy. "Although I do feel bad about the soaking we gave her. I hope she doesn't take it out on you and Bill."
"Don't worry. After a few, speeches from Bill, she'll be all right." Charlotte paused for a moment. "And how do you feel about William Darcy?"
"Confused! I thought I had him figured out, but after yesterday, I'm not sure." Lizzy thought for a moment. "I'm not ready to forget his behavior in Hertfordshire, yet."
"Yet being the key word, huh?" said Charlotte.
"Don't go getting any ideas. Besides," said Lizzy as she drew herself up into a haughty attitude, "Lady Catherine would never approve."
Charlotte laughed. "So what are you going to do today?"
"Richard invited me to go horseback riding."
"How nice. Make sure he takes you to the lake again. It's very pretty. What time are you going?"
Lizzy looked at her watch. "I've got just enough time to eat and change clothes."
"What about food? Do you want me to pack you a lunch?"
"No thanks. Richard said something about having the cook a Rosings fix something."
Thirty minutes later, Lizzy was riding a beautiful black horse named Midnight. She and Richard had ridden all over the hills surrounding Rosings, which to Lizzy's surprise were all part of the Rosings Estate. When the arrived at the lake, Richard suggested stopping for lunch.
"Tah dah!" said Richard after he had unpacked the picnic. "What's your pleasure?"
After eating all that they could, they sat on the beach talking.
"So, Lizzy," said Richard mischievously, "what do you think of Will?"
"Did he ask you to ask me that?" she said with laugh.
"No, I'm just curious by nature. You seemed rather friendly with each other yesterday."
"I was being polite," said Lizzy as she lay back on the sand.
"He's really a nice guy."
"So I've heard."
"You mean yesterday wasn't enough to prove it to you?" Richard asked with a smile.
"First impressions are very hard to forget."
"And what was your first impression of Will?"
"As his cousin, I wouldn't want to offend you."
"I know. He was quiet and reserved."
Lizzy sat up. "Quiet and reserved! He was downright rude!"
Richard laughed and Lizzy blushed as she realized what she had said.
"Don't worry, Lizzy. He gets better as you get to know him."
"I don't think I'll have that opportunity. I understand from his business partner that he won't be coming to Hertfordshire much in the future."
"Charles Bingley?"
"Yes, do you know him and his sister, Caroline?"
"I've only ever heard of Caroline. But I've met Charles a few times. He seems like a nice guy. A little lost maybe."
"Why do you say that?"
"He doesn't think for himself much. Too reliant on other people's opinions. He need's someone to take care of him. Or so says Will."
"Take care of him how?"
Richard thought for a moment. "Well, Will told me that recently Charles had met some girl and instantly thought he was in love with her. He didn't know anything about her, really, and he was talking as though he was going to marry her."
"What happened?"
"Will talked to him. Made him take a closer look at things."
"You mean he talked him out of love," said Lizzy.
"I guess you could say that." Richard looked at Lizzy. "Are you all right? You look a little flushed."
"I'm sorry. I guess I've just been out in the sun for too long today."
"No problem. I'll pack up the lunch and we'll be on our way." Richard gathered the remnants from their picnic and the two of them mounted their horses and where soon back to the Collins' house.
"Thanks for the lovely day, Richard. I really enjoyed it," said Lizzy trying to sound sincere. She had enjoyed the day. At least until Richard had dropped the bombshell about Charles Bingley.
Charlotte met Lizzy as she came in the door. "So, how was it?"
"Huh?" said Lizzy absently.
"Lizzy," Charlotte said as she took hold of her shoulders, "are you all right?"
"Yes, I've just heard something that threw me."
"What?"
"William Darcy is the one who kept Charles Bingley from coming to Hertfordshire to see Jane."
"No!"
"Richard just told me. Of course he didn't know that the woman that William turned Charles away from was my sister, but...oh...the nerve!" Lizzy collapsed in a heap on the couch.
Charlotte sat down next to her. "Oh boy."
"What?"
"We're supposed to have dinner with Lady Catherine and company tonight."
"I'm not going. Tell them I'm sick, lost, dead. Tell them whatever you want, but I'm not going. I can't stand the thought of that man, much less the sight of him."
"Don't worry Lizzy, I'll make your excuses. Why don't you go lay down for awhile."
"That sounds like a good idea."
"I'll check in on you before we leave."
Lizzy lay on her bed dozing until Charlotte came to tell her they were leaving. After seeing them off, Lizzy went into the kitchen and made herself a snack. She carried the tray with cheese, crackers, apples and a pot of tea out to the deck and got comfortable in a lounge chair.
She had been reading and snacking for about an hour when she heard someone ringing the doorbell. Hoping they would go away, Lizzy didn't get up to answer it. A few minutes later, she was startled to see William Darcy coming up the steps of the deck.
"Elizabeth, are you all right?" he said with a concerned look on his face.
"I'm perfectly well," she responded coldly.
"Then why didn't you answer the door?"
"Because I didn't want to be bothered." Take the hint, she thought.
He walked over to where she was sitting, looked at her carefully then said, "So you're not really sick."
"No."
"Good," he said and then sat down in a chair. He sat quietly for a few minutes and then stood and walked around the deck.
Lizzy tried to ignore him, but he kept pacing around looking very agitated.
"Is there something I can do for you, Mr. Darcy? Or did you just come here to test out the quality of Mr. Collins' deck?"
He walked back to her and sat down in the chair next to her. After staring at her for a moment, he said, "Elizabeth, I know this is going to sound bizarre, but I think I'm in love with you."
Lizzy's eyes grew as big as saucers, but before she could speak, he continued.
"I know it's crazy." He stood up and began pacing again. "We've known each other less than a year. We don't even live in the same place. Our social structures are completely different. Our families and friends would never mix, but I can't help it. Ever since I met you, I knew there was something different about you. At first, I thought it was just some passing infatuation, you know, like when you see a photograph or television commercial and it catches your attention for awhile but after it's gone you forget it." He stopped pacing and sat back down next to her. "Anyway, all that said, I'd like to know how you feel. I got the idea that yesterday, you might have begun to warm to me."
Lizzy stood up and walked to the rail of the deck. She thought for a moment then turned to face William. "I suppose that most women would fall at your feet in a dead swoon after such a speech." She paused.
William looked down at his feet.
"But I am not most women," she continued. "How dare you barge in here spouting forth your feelings for me and then explain why you shouldn't be in love with me."
William looked up sharply and started to speak.
"I'm not finished," said Lizzy. "From the very first day I met you I thought you were one of the most arrogant, cold, uninteresting men I had ever met. Just because I was nice to you yesterday in front of your family doesn't mean that I'm ready to forget your past behavior."
"My past behavior?" William stood up. "Look if you're still sore about the tape recorder..."
"The tape recorder!" Lizzy came to stand directly in front of him. "The tape recorder is a minor thing compared with your interference in Charles Bingley's relationship with my sister."
"Your sister didn't look like she was in love. I could only assume that she was after Charles for his money."
"Not everyone is like you! Besides I had already decided that you weren't my type when I heard how you treated George Wickham."
William's eyes blazed. "Look, I don't know what he's told you, but..."
"Save it, Mr. Darcy, I don't want to hear it. It's probably lies anyway." Lizzy sat back down and picked up her book. "I've heard enough for today. You know your way out."
William walked to the steps then stopped and said, "For what it's worth, Elizabeth, I think you're a truly remarkable woman." He walked down the steps and out of sight.
Lizzy sat for a moment stunned at William's last words. She couldn't stop the hot flow of tears that poured down her face. How could he be in love with me? How could he say those things to me and be in love with me? And why am I so upset? Surely, I don't love him. Do I? No! I can't. Not after what he did to Jane and how he treated George. She shook her head, wiped her eyes and opened her book.
Chapter 32
"Lizzy! You look awful! Are you sick?"
"No, Charlotte, I just didn't sleep well last night."
"Let me get you something to eat, you must be hungry."
"Not really. I think I'll take a walk, I could use the fresh air."
"Not until you've got something in your stomach," said Charlotte. Lizzy began to protest, but Charlotte took hold of her arm and forced her to sit at the table. "By the looks of you, you could use some toast and strong coffee."
Lizzy sat silently as Charlotte prepared the food. As she ate the toast and drank the coffee, Charlotte sat watching her.
"Lizzy, if there's anything you want to talk about, you know I'm always here for you."
Lizzy smiled a little. "I know Charlotte. But this is something I need to think out first. I hope you understand."
"I do. Don't stay out too long, Ok?"
"Ok, I think I'll walk to the lake and back. That's not very far."
"Be careful," said Charlotte with an affectionate squeeze of Lizzy's hand.
Lizzy walked until she was out of sight of the house then ran as fast she could to the lake. When she got there, she plopped down on the sand breathing hard. She'd been there for about half an hour, when she heard someone approaching. She looked for a place to hide, she didn't really want to see anyone, but before she could find a place, William came into view.
He looked like he hadn't slept or shaved. He didn't seem surprised to see her. He just walked up to her, pulled an envelope out of his back pocket, handed it to her and walked away.
She watched him until he was out of sight, then turned her attention to the envelope in her hands. The only thing written on it was "Elizabeth Bennet" but from the feel, Lizzy could tell that there were several sheets of paper inside.
Curiosity got the better of her so she ripped the envelope open and took out the letter.
Rosings, 5:00 amDear Miss Bennet,
Do not be afraid that this contains any renewal of that subject, which was, last night, so upsetting to you. I completely understand how you feel about me and can only apologize for any pain I caused you.
That said, I must respond to the accusations you made. One was concerning my role in separating Charles Bingley from your sister, Jane. Upon first meeting your sister, I found her to be pleasant. As you know, Charles took an instant liking to her. While she seemed happy to converse with him, I could detect no partiality to him. At the party given by William Lucas, I could not help but overhear your mother "plotting" Jane's capture of Charles. I later discovered that most everyone assumed their engagement was forthcoming. During the party in London, I witnessed the total lack of propriety by your mother, younger sisters and even by your father.
After you and your family returned to Hertfordshire, Charles began to make plans to rent the vacation cottage you showed us. He is a modest man and has been hurt deeply in the past, so I thought it best to talk to him. After discussing the matter with his sister, we convinced him to hold off renting the cottage and, I advised him to think before he took any action. Had I been able to see that Jane was in love with Charles, perhaps I would not have been so quick to advise him.
My only regret in this matter is that I knew that Jane was in London this winter and I didn't tell Charles. My intentions at the time were good and I won't apologize for them now.
The other accusation made of my character was that I had ruined the prospects of George Wickham. The only way to clear myself of cruelty is to tell you the entire truth about our dealings with each other.
George Wickham is the son of a brilliant man that was well respected and loved by my family. His wife's extravagance caused their living circumstances to be meager. How I wish the son had taken after his father. George and I did grow up together at Pemberley and my father did care for him and his mother after Mr. Wickham's death. My father loved him as a son and he was treated as an equal in our home. At George's request, my father paid for his private schooling and assisted him in getting his pilot's license. He also got George a job with an airline with the promise of a job with Pemberley Airlines as soon as it was in service. It is at this point, I believe, where our stories differ.
Attending school with George and seeing him in the company of his peers, I saw a side of George that my father never knew. George enjoyed drinking and, I have good reason to believe, using drugs. He also enjoyed the company of the ladies. (Usually more than one at a time.) He had little interest in the airline industry, but in order to stay in good favor with my father, he aspired to be a pilot. Having attained his certification, he proceeded to use it to chase women and dabble in a little drug trafficking. I heard rumors of his activities, so I confronted him. He knew I would never hurt my father by telling him of George's escapades, so he admitted everything.
My father died suddenly before Pemberley Air was in operation. In his will, he left instructions for George to "be provided for." I offered him a pilot's position, but he demanded to be made the senior pilot. I knew that he was unqualified and tried to explain that when he gained experience I would consider his promotion. He then demanded and was paid a significant amount of money to relinquish his position. Everything was done legally and is a matter of public record. For a while I heard little or nothing of him. Last summer, however, he appeared with almost disastrous results.
Georgianna's memories of George were only pleasant, as I chose not to tell her of his true character. After a hectic semester, I sent Georgie and a friend (with a chaperone) to the beach for a few weeks rest. The chaperone was a Mrs. Harriet Younge, by whom I was most deceived. She was a good friend of George's and acquired the position as part of a plan. George showed up at the beach and quickly convinced Georgianna that she was in love with him. Not only had he convinced her to elope with him, he had, unknown to Georgianna, gotten her hooked on drugs. He and Mrs. Younge had been slipping things into her food and drinks. His plan was, undoubtedly, to get revenge on me, but, by marrying Georgie, he would have gained access to her rather large fortune. Thankfully, I discovered his plan, when I showed up unexpectedly. Ever since my father's death, Georgianna and I have been very close and she could not think of hurting me by marrying without my knowledge.
I confronted George and, again, he admitted all. I sent him and Mrs. Younge packing, with the promise of legal steps if I ever saw either one of them within 10 miles of Georgianna. My sister is a shy, trusting young woman, who really believed that George loved her. She was devastated. I decided, for Georgie's sake, to escape gossip and take her to America to a drug rehab center. The trip did wonders for her and her heart and body began to mend. Shortly after our return, she called me one day in terror. George had found her address and was sending flowers and notes. I had my lawyers get a restraining order against him. He approached her on the college campus and was arrested. I agreed to let the charges drop if he left England and never returned. I hadn't seen him until that day in Hertfordshire.
My intent in telling you all of this was nothing but the need for you to know the truth. Richard can confirm the entire account, as he was a witness to most of it. I know that I can count on your confidence, especially regarding my sister.
I can only add that I have found you to be a capable businessperson and a warm and caring woman. I wish you only the best.
Sincerely,
William Darcy
Upon first reading the letter, Lizzy crumpled the paper up in anger. After a few minutes of deep breaths and deep thought, Lizzy flattened the paper out and read it again. The part about Jane she skipped. She wasn't ready to deal with that yet. She read through the part about George twice. William Darcy might not be perfect but he certainly wouldn't make up stories about his sister and then tell them to an acquaintance. And he wouldn't have told her to check with Richard if it weren't true.
Lizzy thought about the last she had heard about George. What had Lydia told her? George was going to marry Mary King, who had just come into an inheritance.
Lizzy blushed as she thought about the things she had said and thought about William concerning George. She had taken George's word for everything. Just now, she realized how odd it was that he had shared such personal information with her after only a few hours acquaintance.
After coming to the conclusion that William was telling the truth about George Wickham, she had to go back and re-read the part about Jane and Charles. As she read William's words, she remembered a conversation with Charlotte during the party in London. Charlotte didn't seem to realize how much Jane cared for Charles. If Charlotte couldn't see it, then how could William? Again, Lizzy blushed. I've been so stupid. So blinded. Now what am I going to do?
Lizzy realized that the sun was setting. Charlotte would be getting worried. Lizzy carefully folded the letter and stuck it in her back pocket. She stood, stretched, and started walking back to the Collins'. But her mind was on what was happening at Rosings.
Chapter 33
When Lizzy got back to the house, she heard from Maria that Richard and William had stopped by.
"They've left to go back to London," said with Maria with a sigh. "It's going to awfully dull around here now that they're gone."
"Thanks a lot, sister dear," said Charlotte.
"Oh, I didn't mean that you're dull. It's just that they made going to Rosings a lot more exciting."
"Sure," said Charlotte. She had been watching Lizzy ever since she'd returned from her walk. "Well, Lizzy, I'm sure you won't miss William Darcy, will you?"
"Hmm? Oh, no, of course not," Lizzy replied absently. "But I will miss Richard. Did they stay long when they stopped by?"
"Mr. Darcy wanted to leave after only a few minutes," said Maria, "But Col. Fitzwilliam convinced him to stay for about half an hour."
"And they won't be back any time soon?"
"From what I understand," said Charlotte, "they only visit once or twice a year."
"That's probably about all of Lady C they can stand," said Lizzy wryly.
Lizzy spent the next week walking and sitting on the beach. She read and re-read William's letter until she had memorized it. She knew in her heart that she had been wrong about William and she shuddered to think how badly she had treated him. At night, her dreams were all of that day by the pool at Rosings, but she always woke up. And when she woke up, the memories of that awful day on the deck came flooding back to her.
In two days, she and Maria were scheduled to go home. Lizzy was ready to go. She wanted to tell Jane everything that had happened, (well, not everything. She wouldn't share with Jane the part about William's part in keeping Charles away). She needed Jane to tell her that everything was going to be all right.
The flight home was not as peaceful as Lizzy hoped it might be. Lydia was the flight attendant and she was her typical bawdy self. After the plane had taken off, Lydia came and sat down in the seat next to Lizzy.
"Lydia May Bennet," said Lizzy. "What do you think you're doing? You know you're not supposed to sit in the passenger cabin."
"Oh Lizzy, lighten up. There's only two other passengers besides you and Maria and they're asleep."
Lizzy shook her head.
"I have something to tell you that will make you very happy," said Lydia as she grinned like the Cheshire cat.
"Unless you're getting married and running away to China, I don't want to hear it."
"Of course, you do. It concerns George Wickham."
"What about George Wickham?"
"I told you, you'd be interested."
"Lydia," began Lizzy threateningly.
"Oh all right," Lydia leaned in close as if someone might hear her. "George Wickham didn't marry Mary King."
"And?"
"And he's back at Hertfordshire and free for the asking." Lydia sat back in her seat.
"As if anyone would ask," said Lizzy under her breath. "So why do you think that I would be interested in this information."
"Come on, Lizzy, I know that you were interested in him."
"My interests have changed. I no longer care what George Wickham does."
"Well if you're not interested then I'm sure that someone else will be more than happy to take over."
"Like who?"
Before Lydia spoke, the intercom from the cockpit buzzed. Lydia stood up, straightened her skirt and with a mysterious smile walked away.
Chapter 34
"Oh Jane, I've missed you."
"I've missed you too," said Jane, returning the hug. "Where's your bag?"
"Denny said he'd bring it to my office. How are you doing?"
"I'm doing ok. But tell me about your trip. Did you have a good time? How do 'dear Billy' and Charlotte get on?"
"Much like you would expect. He spends most of his time on the front porch watching for Lady C and Charlotte spends her time on the deck in back. They hardly see each other except at mealtimes and at night," said Lizzy with a grimace.
"Well, as long as they're happy. What about Lady de Bourg?"
"She's a pompous, self-centered know it all, who likes to keep everyone at her beck and call."
"And the daughter."
"At first, she seemed quiet and reserved. But once Richard showed up she livened up quite a bit."
"Richard?"
"Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, cousin of William Darcy."
"William Darcy! Was he there too?"
"Oh yes." Lizzy stopped walking and turned to Jane. "Jane, I've wronged him so badly. It wouldn't surprise me if he canceled his contract with us."
"Lizzy, I'm sure whatever happened it can't be that bad."
"Yes it can. He told me he loved me."
"What?" Jane took Lizzy by the arm and led her to a vacant holding area where they could sit down. "William Darcy told you that he loves you."
"Loved. After what I said to him, I doubt the emotion still remains."
"Lizzy, what did you say to him?"
"I was awful. I told him exactly what I thought of him, and how he treated George Wickham, and how he acted when he was here. I was so very cruel."
"I'm sure it wasn't as bad as all that. You're not a cruel person."
"I was that day." Lizzy sighed, " In my defense, he didn't approach me in a very romantic manner. But he sure didn't deserve what I gave him."
"Lizzy, I've always thought that you are a good judge of character. I'm sure that your opinion of William is not unfounded."
"That's the worst thing of all. I was completely wrong about him." Seeing Jane's puzzled look, she continued, "The day after our fight, I went for a walk. While I was walking, William found me."
"Oh my. What did he say?"
"Absolutely nothing. Just handed a letter to me and walked away."
"A letter? What did it say?"
"He told me all about his experience with George Wickham. George is not at all what I thought he was. He's been involved with drug smuggling and he even tried to get William's sister hooked on drugs so that she would marry him and he could get his hands on her money."
"Are you sure it's true?"
"Yeah. One thing William isn't is a liar. Besides, he told me that Richard could confirm everything."
"Did you ask Richard?"
"How could I? Then I would have had to explain the whole embarrassing mess."
"Lizzy, I'm so sorry. I had hoped that you would have had a relaxing vacation."
"Yeah, and now I come home to find that George is back in Hertfordshire."
"I know," said Jane. "He's been hanging around with Kitty and Lydia."
"I thought so."
"I'm sorry you had to come home to this," said Jane.
"It's ok. All I want right now is to check my messages and go home to soak in a hot bath."
Jane looked a little uncomfortable.
"What?" said Lizzy suspiciously.
"Mother wants us to come over for dinner."
Lizzy sighed, "If it weren't for father, I'd refuse. What time?"
"5:00"
"Ok, let me check in at the office and then we'll go. I'd like to stop and change clothes, so I don't look so rumpled."
"Ok, I'll close up my office and meet you by the car."
Thankfully for Lizzy, Mrs. Bennet wasn't too interested in how the Collins' lived. She asked a few questions, but when she found that Charlotte was doing well, she changed the subject.
Dinner was the normal rowdy event. Afterwards, Lizzy was able to spend a few minutes with her father. Just enough time for her father to catch her up on the latest news in the airline industry.
As Lizzy walked out of her father's study, Lydia was just getting off the phone.
"Yes, Sherry," said Lydia excitedly, "I'll call you back as soon as I know for sure."
Lydia hung up the phone and raced out onto the back porch where the rest of the family was. Lizzy followed her.
"You'll never guess what just happened!" she shouted.
Only Kitty and Mrs. Bennet seemed interested so Lydia continued. "You know that trip to Monte Gdogo that's been advertised around the airport? Well, Sherry Forster just called. She and the Captain are going and she's asked me to come along as her special companion. She'll pay for everything!" Lydia shrieked.
"Oh Lydia," said Mrs. Bennet, "that is good news. There are sure to be some rich single men in Monte Gdogo."
"Can I come too?" asked Kitty.
"No," said Lydia. "Sherry specifically said only me. Why would she want to take you anyway?"
"Lydia," said Jane, "you shouldn't talk to Kitty like that."
"You realize," said Lizzy, "that father isn't likely to let you go."
"Of course, he will. It won't cost him anything and the Forsters are nice enough."
"Just don't hold your breath."
Jane and Lizzy didn't stay much longer. Lizzy was tired and both of them wanted to escape from their parents house.
The next day, Mr. Bennet called Lizzy into his office.
"What's your opinion of this whole Monte Gdogo business," he asked her.
"You're not seriously considering letting her go?"
"I was. There's hardly any cost, and it would get her out of here for a few weeks."
"Father, you know how she is. She'll do something incredibly stupid and probably illegal."
Mr. Bennet smiled, "Now, Elizabeth." Whenever he called her Elizabeth, she knew she'd lost. "Lydia will never be happy until she's done something that she considers completely wild. It's better that she does it in Monte Gdogo, where she's far away from her family. Besides, the Forsters aren't stupid people. They'll make sure she doesn't get into any real trouble."
Lizzy nodded her head, "If that's the decision you've come to then so be it."
Mr. Bennet squeezed her hand. "I'm sure everything will be just fine."
Chapter 35
Lizzy had hoped to convince Jane to come along, but Jane said she preferred to stay in Hertfordshire and take care of the Gardiner's children with whom she was a particular favorite.
The Gardiner's arrived and after staying only one night, set off with Lizzy in tow.
They deep into the countryside, stopping as they felt like it with no schedule in mind. Any small town or wide spot in the road might tempt them. They stayed mostly in Bed & Breakfasts where they could relax and take things easy.
About a week after they left, they arrived in the small town of Lambton. Madeline Gardiner had grown up in this town and had a few friends that still lived there. They set themselves up in a quaint little country inn and proceeded to tour the area.
One morning at breakfast, Mrs. Gardiner suggested that they tour one of the old country estates about five miles from town. They piled into the convertible that Mr. Gardiner had rented for the trip and were off.
They were halfway up a long driveway, when Mrs. Gardiner told her husband to stop the car. She turned around to her niece.
"Well, Lizzy. What do you think of Pemberley?"
"It's absolutely....Pemberley?"
"It's the oldest country estate in Derbyshire. Isn't it beautiful?"
"Yes, it's very lovely, but did you really say Pemberley?"
"Lizzy, what's wrong?"
"Aunt Maddie, Pemberley just happens to be the home of William Darcy."
"I know, dear." Seeing the distressed look on Lizzy's face, she said, "During the season, most of these old estates are run by a tourism staff. I doubt that the family is even here."
"I hope you're right."
They parked in a small gravel lot and walked up the steps that led to a large door. After pressing the bell, they were met by a smiling older lady who introduced herself as Mrs. Reynolds. She invited them in and closed the door behind them. Had she been just a few seconds longer, Lizzy would have seen the dark metallic blue Jaguar drive past the front of the house and pull into the private garage.
Mrs. Reynolds was a pleasant lady, full of information about Pemberley and the surrounding area. She told them all about the history of the house and it's family. Pemberley was one of the few homes that the tours were conducted by the servants of the family and not an outside staff, so Mrs. Reynolds had many amusing anecdotes to share.
"How long have you worked for the Darcy family?" asked Mr. Gardiner.
"Oh my, it's been over 30 years. Since before Mr. William was born."
"And how have you liked working here?"
"It's been wonderful. The late Mr. Darcy was the best of men and his wife was an angel. Miss Georgianna is just like her mother, though a little more shy. But Mr. William is the spitting image of his father, in body and mind. A kinder or more compassionate man you'll never find. I've never had a harsh word from him. Some people think he's arrogant and cold, but they don't really know him. He's a hard working man, but he loves his sister and this old house more than anything in the world."
"Does the family come here much during the season," said Mrs. Gardiner with a sidelong look at Lizzy.
"Rarely."
"See Lizzy, I told you."
Lizzy started to relax when Mrs. Reynolds said, "But I'm expecting Mr. William and some friends tomorrow."
Lizzy's thoughts were in an uproar. If they had postponed their visit one day, she would have seen William. She followed the housekeeper and her aunt and uncle through the house but she hardly heard anything that was said. At one point, Mrs. Reynolds showed them into what she called the study but it looked more like a small public library. Lizzy could tell that the room was obviously decorated with a man in mind. This was confirmed when Mrs. Reynolds told them that this had been the previous Mr. Darcy's study. Although Mr. William used the study, the room had been left much as it was when Mr. Darcy was still alive.
As Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner discussed some of the books on the shelves with Mrs. Reynolds, Lizzy moved to a display case that held several pictures. She was unaware that her aunt had joined her until she heard Mrs. Gardiner say, "Lizzy, what are you looking at?"
Lizzy pointed to one of the pictures. "That is George Wickham."
"Really, he's not as handsome as I expected him to be."
"No, nor I," said Lizzy.
Mr. Gardiner and Mrs. Reynolds moved to the case. Mrs. Reynolds pointed to a portrait of a man and a woman. "Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, God love 'em," she said. "And there's Miss Georgianna," she said pointing to a picture of a beautiful blond woman of about 18. Indicating still another picture she said, "And that's Mr. William. Taken about a year ago."
"My, Lizzy, you never told me that William Darcy was so handsome."
Before Lizzy could speak, Mrs. Reynolds said, "Do you know Mr. William, miss?"
"We're a little bit aquatinted. My family operates a small airline. Last fall we signed an agreement with PNA."
"Oh, yes, I remember Mr. William speaking of it." Lizzy hoped Mrs. Reynolds would tell her what William had said, but the lady just turned and led them out of the room and down the hallway. She was about to lead them outside so they could walk through the gardens when she stopped. With her hand on the door knob, she said, "We don't usually let visitors see this room, but since your friends with Mr. William, I'm sure he wouldn't mind." She opened the door and led them into a beautifully decorated music room. The wallpaper was light and cheerful and the furniture was in the regency style.
"This is Miss Georgianna's favorite room. She loves to play the piano and sing and she's very good. Mr. William has just had this new piano sent from town as a surprise for her. I can't wait to see her face when she sees it," said Mrs. Reynolds, the love of the Darcy family written on her face.
"Mr. Darcy is surely a good brother," said Mrs. Gardiner.
"Yes, he spoils Miss Georgianna something terrible, but she doesn't let it go to her head."
After a few more minutes, Mrs. Reynolds showed the Gardiners and Lizzy out to the gardens and pointed out a few of the best walks before she returned to the house.
Had they been in the music room but ten minutes later, they would have seen William Darcy enter and place a package on the new piano.
Chapter 36
Lizzy stood up on a bench and looked around. She had lost sight of her aunt and uncle and was trying to see which way they had gone.
"Blast," she said, "now what do I do." She jumped down from the bench and walked around past a few tall shrubbery to another bench. She stepped up and began looking again. She thought she saw a man moving around a fountain but she was sure it wasn't her uncle. Oh, well, if he's the gardener maybe he's seen Aunt Maddie and Uncle Edmund. At least her can tell me how to get out of here.
Lizzy wound around shrubs and plants until she came to the man. He was stooped down and seemed to be working on the fountain.
Lizzy tapped him on the shoulder and said, "Excuse me. I don't mean to bother you but..."
She never finished her sentence. The man stood up and turned around. Lizzy found herself face to face with William Darcy.
"William!"
"Elizabeth!"
They both spoke at the same time.
Lizzy's face flushed and she stammered, "Um...I... um...that is, we...um."
"It's nice to see you again." He smiled.
"Thank you," she said, "I mean, it's good to see you, as well."
They stood for a few minutes not saying anything.
William finally spoke up, "So what are you doing in Derbyshire?"
"Oh! I'm traveling with my aunt and uncle. My aunt grew up in Lambton and she wanted to visit some old friends and then she suggested that we tour Pemberley but we thought that the family wasn't here or we never would have presumed to come here and now my aunt and uncle have wandered off and I'm not sure where they are and I'm really sorry to intrude like this so if you'll excuse me I'll just go and find them." Lizzy knew she was babbling but she just couldn't control her mouth.
"Elizabeth, it's all right. I wasn't supposed to come until tomorrow but I decided to come a day early." He smiled again.
Lizzy smiled back and relaxed a bit. "I really should find my aunt and uncle."
"Yeah, I guess so."
"Well, I guess I'll just wait out by the car. They'll undoubtedly go there when they can't find me."
"Undoubtedly."
"Good-bye, William."
"Good-bye, Elizabeth."
Lizzy finally pulled her eyes from William's and turned and made her way back to the car. As she walked, she was muttering to herself.
"I knew I should have had uncle turn the car around. What must William think of me? He probably thinks I came here on purpose. Oh! I've got to get out of here!"
She reached the car and sat in the driver's seat, leaned the seat back, and closed her eyes. She heard someone coming across the gravel, so she opened her eyes and sat up.
"Where have you two been?" said without turning around.
"Sorry I took so long but I thought I'd clean up a bit before properly receiving company," said William.
Lizzy turned around slowly. "Oh. Hi! Sorry, I thought you were my aunt and uncle."
"So what do you think of Pemberley? Do you approve?"
"Approve? I can't imagine anyone who wouldn't love it."
"But I'm particularly interested in what you think." He looked directly into her eyes with a serious expression.
"It's absolutely lovely, William." She returned his gaze. "If I lived here, I'd never want to leave." When she realized what she'd said, she looked away.
"Thank you. I try to spend as much time here as I can. Unfortunately, during the touring season, Mrs. Reynolds doesn't allow me to come home as much," he said with a smile.
"She's a real treasure. I understand she's been with your family for a long time."
"Yes. She's more like a member of the family than an employee. She was a big help to Georgianna and myself when my parents died."
As they were standing, talking, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner walked up to them.
"Lizzy, we've been looking all over for you. Where did you get to?" said her aunt.
"I'm sorry to worry you, aunt, but I got turned around in the garden and when I couldn't find you, I thought it best to return to the car and wait."
Mr. Gardiner cleared his throat and Lizzy remembered that she had not introduced them to William.
"I'm sorry. Edmund and Madeline Gardiner; William Darcy." She turned to William. "The Gardiners are my aunt and uncle on my mother's side."
They exchanged pleasantries; the Gardiners commented on how much they liked Pemberley.
"Do you like to fish, Mr. Gardiner?" said William.
"Edmund, please, and yes I do, although I don't get much of chance to do it."
"Perhaps while you're staying at Lambton, you'd like to come and fish here. We have some very good spots. In fact, if you're not in a hurry, I could show you a few of them."
Mr. Gardiner looked to his wife and she nodded and smiled. "It would be our pleasure, William."
The two couples walked for awhile, with the men in front and the ladies trailing behind. The men discussed fishing and the women, in hushed tones, discussed William.
"Lizzy, are you sure that this is the same man you were telling me of before. He's so nice."
"He is aunt. I'm afraid that my original appraisal of his character was based on incomplete information."
After walking to the lake, the group took a short cut back through a wooded area. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner lagged behind somewhat as they watched for birds and other little woodland creatures. William and Lizzy reached the car some time before them.
"So," said William, "have you enjoyed your holiday so far."
"Oh, yes. I love to travel. Especially to new places. There's always something exciting around the next turn."
"And it's especially nice when you travel with someone."
"Yes. I always enjoy being with my aunt and uncle. They're such fun people."
They could see Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner approaching in the distance.
"Listen, Elizabeth, my sister Georgianna, will be here tomorrow. I'd love for you two to meet. Would it be ok if we stopped by the inn tomorrow afternoon?"
"I'd like that very much."
"Charles and Caroline are coming, too, but I think Georgie and I can sneak out."
"Thank you. I don't think the inn is fashionable enough for Caroline." Lizzy laughed.
Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner finally made it to the car. William suggested they all come in for something cool to drink, but they had already made dinner plans and had to get back to the inn. William helped Lizzy and Mrs. Gardiner into the car and shut the door.
"It's been a real pleasure meeting you both," he said.
"The feeling's mutual son," said Mr. Gardiner.
"We look forward to seeing you and your sister tomorrow," said Mrs. Gardiner with a smile.
William looked at Lizzy and smiled. "Georgianna will be very excited when I tell her that she finally gets to meet you."
She smiled back "Please tell her that I'm equally excited to meet her too."
Mr. Gardiner started the car and backed it out. As he headed down the drive, Lizzy turned to look at William. His eyes hadn't left her. She waved her hand to him. They stared at each other until they were out of sight.
Chapter 37
That night, Lizzy couldn't sleep. She couldn't believe how warmly William had treated her. Obviously, William did not hold her past behavior against her. He actually seemed happy to see her. And he wanted to introduce her to Georgianna!
Lizzy had to get up. The sun was just rising so she decided to take a walk before breakfast. It was a cool morning, but Lizzy felt exhilarated by the morning air. She walked up a hill just outside of the inn and looked in the direction of Pemberley. What is he doing? she wondered. Is he awake? What's he thinking?
Five miles from Lambton at Pemberley, William Darcy stood in the garden beside the fountain he had been working on. He hadn't been able to sleep very well either. Every time he closed his eyes, he saw Elizabeth standing in the garden, like she had been the day before. He smiled as he remembered how she had rambled on about loosing track of her aunt and uncle and how she was sorry for intruding. She had looked like a little girl who had lost her way. He turned and walked back into the house. No doubt Mrs. Reynolds was up and breakfast would be ready soon. He wanted to get everything ready, so that when Georgianna got there, they could go right over to see Elizabeth.
Lizzy returned from her walk just in time to join the Gardiners in the dining room for breakfast.
"Lizzy, have you been out already," said Mrs. Gardiner.
"Yes, I woke up early, so I thought I'd take a walk before breakfast."
"Well, I guess we'll just putter around here in Lambton today. That way we won't miss William and his sister," said Mr. Gardiner.
"Yes, I'm really looking forward to meeting her, although I had heard that she was very proud," said Mrs. Gardiner with a look at Lizzy. "Isn't that what you heard Lizzy?"
Lizzy ducked her head a little, "It is aunt, but I think we have both been misled. I believe that Georgianna is merely shy, not proud."
"Sort of like what we heard of her brother, wouldn't you say, my dear," said Mr. Gardiner to his wife with a smile.
"Yes, dear. He was very friendly yesterday, wasn't he. I can't imagine why," Mrs. Gardiner replied.
Lizzy looked up to find both of them looking at her and smiling. "What?"
The Gardiners just shook their heads and finished breakfast.
For the morning hours, they walked around the town, shopped in the quaint little shops and sampled some of the fresh baked goods in the bakery. The time seemed to drag on for Lizzy. She felt like she was looking at her watch every minute.
They came back to the inn for lunch, but Lizzy was too nervous to eat. What if Georgianna didn't like her. She couldn't imagine William doing anything to upset his sister.
After lunch, they each amused themselves while waiting for their visitors. Mr. Gardiner napped, Mrs. Gardiner was writing post cards to her children, and Lizzy sat in the window seat, trying to read a book but she spent most of the time looking out the window and jumping every time she heard a sound.
Finally, about 2:00, there was a knock on the door. Mrs. Gardiner shook her husband slightly to wake him as she went to open the door.
"William, so good to see you again. Please come in." She stood back to let them in.
Georgianna Darcy walked into the room just in front of William. Actually it looked a little like he was pushing her into the room. She smiled nervously at the Gardiners and Lizzy.
"Mr. & Mrs. Gardiner, may I introduce my sister, Georgianna," William turned to his sister. "Georgie this is Edmund and Madeline Gardiner."
Georgianna smiled shyly and said, "It's very nice to meet you both."
"And it's a pleasure to meet you my dear," said Mrs. Gardiner with a warm smile that immediately put Georgianna at ease.
William then led his sister over to Lizzy. "And this is Elizabeth Bennet."
Lizzy smiled broadly at Georgianna. "It's so nice to finally meet you, Georgianna. I've heard so much about you."
Georgianna smiled back. "I've heard a lot about you also, Elizabeth. So much so that I made William bring me over as soon as he told me you were in Lambton."
"Charles is going to stop by in a little bit," said William. "We decided to come on over. Charles was trying to get Caroline to rest for a while, then he'll sneak on over here."
"It was a rather long trip out here," said Georgianna with a twinkle in her eye, "I'm sure Caroline needed rest."
William approached Mr. Gardiner with a fishing offer and the two men where soon sharing fish stories. Lizzy and Mrs. Gardiner sat with Georgianna.
"Georgianna," said Lizzy, "I hear that you like to play the piano and play quite well."
Georgianna blushed. "I do enjoy playing, but as to my playing well, I'm afraid that someone" she glanced at William "has overrated my ability."
"Oh I doubt that, my dear," said Mrs. Gardiner. "I'm sure that you play beautifully."
"Do either of you play?" asked Georgianna.
"I used to," said Mrs. Gardiner, "but with the children, I don't get much time."
"What about you Elizabeth?"
"I learned a long time ago, but it's been forever since I touched a keyboard."
"Then you must come to Pemberley," said Georgianna. "My brother has just given me a brand new piano and you two must help me break it in."
"I'll second that," said William, joining their conversation. "I'd love to hear all of you play. Why don't you come to Pemberley for dinner tomorrow? After dinner, we can have a concert."
Lizzy looked to her aunt and uncle. They both smile and nodded their heads.
"We'd love to," Lizzy said with a smile.
"Perhaps we'll even have fish. What do you say to that Edmund," said William.
"I'd say that we'd all better have a big lunch!"
A knock at the door, brought their laughter to a stop.
"That should be Charles," said William, as Lizzy went to answer it.
Charles Bingley came through the door smiling. "Lizzy! It's so good to see you, again. When William told me you were five miles from Pemberley, I couldn't believe it." He took her hand to shake it, then leaned over and kissed her on the cheek.
"Charles, I'm glad to see you too. How is Caroline?"
When he responded, "Resting!" the others had a hard time not laughing.
Charles asked Lizzy how her family was doing. "Are they all still in Hertfordshire?"
"All but one," she said and his face fell a little. "My youngest sister is with some friends in Monte Carlo."
"How wonderful," he said with a full grin.
William watched them a smile and shook his head. Be a little obvious, Charles, he thought.
After about an hour, William, Georgianna, and Charles started to talk of leaving. It was obvious that none of the Pemberley group wanted to go, but they thought it best to leave before Caroline sent out the police.
"Edmund, we shall expect you about 6:00 am, if that's all right," said William.
"Perfect, my boy, I look forward to it," Mr. Gardiner shook hands with William and Charles. He then turned to Georgianna and clasped her hand in both of his. "It was a great pleasure to meet you my dear."
"Thank you, sir," she replied blushing slightly. Georgianna looked at Lizzy. "I look forward to our concert tomorrow evening, Elizabeth."
"I look forward to your part of it, Georgianna. I'm afraid to comment on my own," said Lizzy with a laugh.
"I'm sure you'll all do just fine," said William, with a smile and his eyes sparkling. Charles and Georgianna had moved outside of the door. William gave Georgianna the "one more minute" sign and turned to Lizzy.
He took Lizzy's hand in both of his own. "Thank you, Elizabeth. Georgianna is very shy around strangers, but you and your aunt and uncle have made her quite at ease. I'm most appreciative."
"It was a great pleasure, William. She's so sweet. I like her very much."
"I'm looking forward to tomorrow very much," he said in a low voice.
"So am I," she whispered back.
With a smile, he squeezed her hand and then joined the others.
Chapter 38
"Well, Lizzy, what shall we do to pass the day away?"
"Perhaps we could do a little more shopping. There were a few shops we missed yesterday that I'd like to check out."
"Today would be a good day. That way your poor uncle won't be subjected to anymore dress shops."
"True." Lizzy laughed, "And I'd like to get something to wear tonight."
"I have an idea," said Mrs. Gardiner, "Why don't we call Georgianna and see if she'd like to accompany us?"
"That's a great idea, although we may be subjected to Caroline Bingley as well."
"Pooh! The day either one of us can't handle the likes of Caroline Bingley is the day they'll put me in the ground."
Lizzy called information and got the number for Pemberley. She had a little trouble, the family's number was private so all she could get was the tour office number. But when Mrs. Reynolds heard who it was, she immediately transferred the call over to the main house.
Georgianna picked up the phone, "Hello, Darcy residence."
"Georgianna?"
"Yes"
"Hi, it's Elizabeth Bennet."
"Hi," said Georgianna enthusiastically, "How are you?"
"I'm fine. Listen, my aunt and I are going to do some shopping in Lambton today, you know, girl stuff. Would you like to join us?"
"I'd love to go," Georgianna started to say. Lizzy could hear a voice in the background that had to be Caroline. "Where are we going, Georgie, dear?"
"Uh, Elizabeth," Georgianna whispered, "what about Caroline?"
"I figure between the three of us, we could handle her for a day."
"Great!" Georgianna asked Lizzy to hold on a moment while she spoke to Caroline. Lizzy could hear Georgianna ask if Caroline wanted to go shopping in the village with her and a couple of friends. Caroline replied that she would love nothing better than spend the morning with "dear Georgie" and her friends.
"It's a date," said Georgianna when she got back on the phone.
"Great. We have uncle's convertible, so we'll pick you two up in about an hour."
"We'll be ready. Bye."
Georgianna told Caroline to be ready in an hour and ran up to her room. Actually she ran up to her room and then down the back stairway and out of the house. She wanted to tell William where she was going and she didn't want Caroline tagging along.
Georgianna found the men by the lake. When William saw her coming he met her half way.
"Georgie, what's wrong? You look like you've run all the way here," William said with some concern.
"I'm fine Will." The she whispered so Charles couldn't hear, "I had to sneak out."
William laughed softly. "So little sister, what brings you out here."
"I wanted to tell you that Caroline and I are going into Lambton to go shopping with some friends. Actually with Elizabeth and her aunt."
William eyed his sister suspiciously, "Does Caroline know that the 'friends' are Elizabeth and her aunt?"
"Well, not exactly, but she'll find out in about 45 minutes when they come to pick us up."
"Elizabeth is coming here?"
"Yes. She said that she had her uncle's convertible and you know how much I like convertibles."
William put his arm around Georgianna affectionately, "Yes, I know how much you like convertibles. Although, I doubt you'd like them so much if Caroline didn't hate them so much."
"Oops, caught again," she laughed.
"Come on, I'll walk you back up to the house. I was coming up to bring some coffee down anyway."
"Sure you were," she said as they started walking.
"What does that mean?"
"Oh, nothing. Just that I'll bet that coffee wasn't even in your head until you heard that Elizabeth was stopping by."
"Georgianna Darcy, how dare you talk to your brother in such a way," he said with mock indignation. "You'll pay for that later you know."
"I know, I just couldn't resist." They walked quietly for awhile. "You really like her, don't you Will?"
"Does it show that much?"
"Yeah." Georgianna grinned at his shocked response. "But the best part is that it shows on her too."
William looked at his sister with wide eyes.
"Don't look at me like that. Even though I've only known her one day, I can tell you that you two were made for each other."
They had reached the house but William stopped before entering. "How did you get to be so smart?"
Georgianna assumed a superior air, "I'm a woman now, Will. A woman sees things a man doesn't."
"Yeah right, and a 'woman' still wears footed pajamas and giggles like a three year old when she gets a present."
"Ok, so maybe I'm almost a woman."
William brushed the side of her face with his hand. "You'll get there soon enough, Georgie. Don't rush it."
"You're still worried about that whole Wickham thing, aren't you?"
"Only if you are."
"I've forgotten him, almost. I just can't forget how stupid I was," she said with the threat of tears in her eyes.
"You weren't stupid, Georgie. He's deceived all of us at one time or another. He's good at it and he doesn't care what happens to the people he deceives. But I'll never let him deceive us again. Do you understand me?"
Georgianna smiled up into her brother's face. "I love you, big brother."
William hugged her tightly, "I love you too, little sister."