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Chapter 39
William, under the pretext of getting some refreshments for the men, managed to hang out at the house until Lizzy and her aunt arrived. Before he could reach the door, however, Georgianna had raced out and was greeting her guests.
"Elizabeth, Mrs. Gardiner, I'm so happy to see you again," she said.
"Hi, Georgianna," said Lizzy. She smiled at Georgianna then the sight of William coming down the front steps caught her attention.
"Good morning, Elizabeth," he said warmly, then he turned to greet her aunt.
"So, William," said Mrs. Gardiner, "do we have fish for dinner tonight?"
"Perhaps as an appetizer," he said with a laugh
They chatted for a few minutes, then Georgianna went back into the house to get Caroline.
Mrs. Gardiner busied herself with something in her purse to give William and Lizzy a few minutes to talk.
"Elizabeth, I really appreciate your calling Georgie. She hasn't gotten out much with anyone other than me since last summer. I'm afraid I've been rather protective of her."
Lizzy laid her hand on William's arm. "You've been exactly what you should have been: the perfect brother."
"Thanks." He covered her hand with his own. "Sometimes I wonder if I'm doing any good."
Just then Georgianna came bounding out of the house. Lizzy pointed to her and said, "One look at that young lady and anyone can tell you're doing a wonderful job."
Georgianna came over to them. "Caroline will be out in a minute."
"Have you told her who she's going shopping with yet?" asked William.
"Not exactly."
William just shook his head and smiled.
Lizzy looked at Georgianna, "You didn't tell her it was me?"
"Well…" she began, when Caroline appeared from inside the house.
"Georgie, dear, I can't wait to meet your little friends." She started down the steps, but when she saw Lizzy, she came to a stop. "Elizabeth."
"Hello, Caroline. Long time no see."
Caroline glanced from Georgianna to William, saw their happy expressions and pasted a smile on her own face. "Yes, it has been a long time."
Caroline continued down the steps and came to stand next to William. When she noticed Lizzy's hand on William's arm and his hand covering it, she slipped her hand through his free arm. William rolled his eyes.
Mrs. Gardiner walked up to the group and suggested that they get going.
"Oh, Caroline," said William. "You've haven't met Elizabeth's aunt. Madeline Gardiner this is Charles' sister Caroline."
"Nice to meet you, dear," said Mrs. Gardiner.
"Likewise," was all Caroline said in reply before turning back to William. "You know, William, perhaps I ought to stay here. I wouldn't want to leave you alone."
"You won't be," said William, trying to disentangle himself from her. "I'm going back to lake, and I plan to stay there most of the day."
"Oh," said Caroline dejectedly.
"Ok girls," said Lizzy "this taxi is leaving. Shall we put the top down?"
"Oh, yes, please," said Georgianna.
"We're going in this?" said Caroline.
"Sorry, but it's the only car we have," said Mrs. Gardiner.
William helped Lizzy put the top down. Then he opened the passenger door and pushed the seat forward so Caroline could climb in.
William held the door for Mrs. Gardiner and then walked around the car to the driver's side where Lizzy had opened the door to let Georgianna in.
"Mrs. Gardiner, won't this be too much air for you," said Caroline
"Oh, no, dear. I love having the wind blow through my hair."
"Lovely," Caroline mumbled.
Lizzy and William looked at each other with laughter in their eyes. William closed the door after she got in.
William looked at Georgianna, "Do you have money?"
"Of course, I took your credit card," she said with an innocent look at her brother.
"Great," he said with a groan. "I guess I'd better call the bank and have them up the limit." He leaned over the side of the car and kissed her on the cheek. Then with a touch on Elizabeth's shoulder her said, "You ladies have a great time. Don't buy out all the shops."
Caroline started to purr something, but Lizzy, with a mischievous grin at William, threw the car into gear and took off.
William laughed as he watched the car disappear in a cloud of dust.
Chapter 40
"Well, girls," said Mrs. Gardiner, "where shall we start?"
Before Lizzy or Georgianna could speak, Caroline suggested they go into an upscale Parisian import shop.
Reluctantly, they all followed her. The shop was filled with all the "in" clothes fresh off the fashion runway.
Mrs. Gardiner deferred looking at anything and sat in a chair near the front of the shop. Caroline, forgetting her companions, began 'oooing' and ahing over everything. Lizzy and Georgianna took turns pulling things off the rack only to send the other into hysterics with, "isn't this marvelous" and "I must have one in every color."
Caroline seemed oblivious to them until she noticed Georgianna holding up a slinky sequined mini dress in (you guessed it) fluorescent orange.
"Oh, Georgianna, what taste you have!" exclaimed Caroline taking the dress from her. "I must try this on."
As Caroline shut the door to the dressing room, Lizzy and Georgianna burst into laughter. Caroline reappeared in a few minutes to 'model' the dress for them.
They tried to be polite but it was hard to keep a straight face. The dress was at least one size too small for Caroline and looked like it was cutting off her circulation.
Caroline seemed not to notice the ill fit of the dress, but when asked if she was going to buy it, she said that, "after reading the label she found that it was last year's style and she wouldn't be caught dead in last year's fashions."
Finally, Caroline seemed to have seen everything and the ladies made their way down the street. Lizzy and Georgianna walked in front of Mrs. Gardiner and Caroline. Whenever Caroline tried to speak to Georgianna, Mrs. Gardiner would call her attention to something in a shop window.
Lizzy led them to a shop she had passed the day before that she had wanted to visit. It had hand made clothing and accessories.
"How about this, Georgianna?" said Lizzy holding out a flowered skirt in shades of lilac.
"Oh, Elizabeth, that's exactly what I want!" she exclaimed. "Is there a top to match?"
The two women searched through a few more racks before finding a short sleeved ivory blouse with embroidery on the collar and down the front in the same shade of lilac.
"I love it," said Georgianna looking at her reflection. "Do you think William will like it?"
"You look beautiful," said Mrs. Gardiner. "I'm sure your brother will think so too."
"Thank you, Mrs. Gardiner," she replied.
"Please, dear, call me Aunt Maddie, Maddie, or even Madeline, but not Mrs. Gardiner. It makes me feel old," she said with a smile.
"All right, Aunt Maddie," said Georgianna, a little hesitantly at first, but after having said it once, it was "Aunt Maddie" forever.
Georgianna had the saleswoman put the outfit aside, then went to find Lizzy.
When she found her, she was holding up an ankle length soft black flowing skirt and a rose-colored peasant blouse.
"Elizabeth, that's beautiful. You must try it on."
"I'm not sure," said Lizzy. "Do you think it's too dowdy?"
"Dowdy! No. I think it looks very soft and romantic," replied Georgianna with a grin.
"All right. Let's see if it fits." Lizzy took the outfit into a dressing room and reappeared a few minutes later. "Well, what do you think?" The skirt brushed her ankles and the blouse's neckline rested just on her shoulders, showing off the smooth lines of her neck and shoulders.
"Lovely," said Mrs. Gardiner.
"Elizabeth, you look like you just stepped out of a romance," said Georgianna with a sigh.
"How quaint," said Caroline, who had just walked up. "Sort of like a country lass, wouldn't you say."
"Caroline," said Mrs. Gardiner, "I saw something on a rack that I thought you'd look perfect in." She took Caroline by the arm and led her to the other side of the store.
"Don't pay any attention to her," said Georgianna. "She thinks she's such a fashion plate."
"I know," said Lizzy. "She's more like a fashion faux pas."
The two girls laughed and then looked back at Lizzy's reflection. Georgianna said, "I think William will like this outfit very much."
Lizzy looked at Georgianna with astonishment. "Georgianna!"
"What? You're not going to pretend that you didn't at least consider him when you picked this out." Georgianna smiled.
Lizzy just shook her head and went back to the dressing room to change.
After the two girls paid for their purchases, the party walked outside.
"Such a lovely day," said Mrs. Gardiner. "Shall we stop at the café and have something to drink?"
"What a nice suggestion, Aunt Maddie," said Georgianna. At the words "Aunt Maddie," Caroline's eyebrows went up and her face flushed.
The ladies sat at a table outside and ordered drinks. Mrs. Gardiner, Lizzy and Georgianna each ordered cappuccinos and Caroline ordered a bloody mary. After the waitress brought their drinks, they talked about where they should go next.
"There isn't much here to interest me," said Caroline. "I'm quite ready to go back to Pemberley."
When no one agreed she added, "And I'm sure all this walking is starting to take its toll on you, Mrs. Gardiner."
"Not at all, Caroline. I'm ready to run a race. But if you're feeling tired, dear, you could rest here while we do some more shopping."
"Oh, no," exclaimed Caroline. "I could shop all day."
"Well," said Lizzy, "I think Georgianna and I need new shoes to go with our outfits."
Georgianna agreed, so they finished their drinks and walked to the shoe store.
Lizzy and Georgianna both found shoes that would compliment their outfits and asked the salesman to bring them a pair to try on. Lizzy had chosen a pair of low-heeled sandals and Georgianna a pair of ivory ballerina slippers.
As they were trying the shoes on, Caroline asked the salesman to bring out a few pair for her to try on. The other three ladies had to bite their lips to keep from laughing as the salesman returned with eight boxes of shoes.
Caroline began trying them on and prancing about the store for all to see. Every pair had three to four inch spiked heels. Some were strappy sandals, some were pumps with all sorts of decorations and they were all in wild colors (at least half were orange).
When Georgianna and Lizzy took their shoes up to the counter to purchase, Caroline joined them.
"What did you choose, Caroline," asked Georgianna.
"I found the sexiest pair of high heels with swirls of sequins."
"What color," said Lizzy. Georgianna had buried her face in her purse to keep from laughing.
"Yellow!" said Caroline. "They'll match my dinner dress perfectly."
Lizzy and Georgianna didn't look at each other until they were outside the shop and in a little more control of themselves.
With a glance at her watch, Mrs. Gardiner suggested that they should be getting back to Pemberley. "We have to go back to the inn to shower and change for dinner tonight."
"Dinner," said Caroline, "do you have special dinner plans?"
"The Gardiners and Elizabeth are coming to dinner at Pemberley tonight, Caroline."
"How nice," said Caroline with a sniff.
When they got back to the car, Caroline asked if they would mind stopping at the Paris shop for a few minutes. She had decided to buy something and it wouldn't take long for her to run in and get it.
While she was in the shop, the other three speculated whether she would purchase the dress she had poured herself into earlier.
After waiting for twenty minutes, Mrs. Gardiner looked at her watch and said, "That girl better hurry up or we're going to be late for dinner."
"Aunt Maddie," said Georgianna, "why don't we stop at the inn and you could pick up the things you need and you could shower and change at Pemberley. It would save you from having to make an extra trip."
"Georgianna, are you sure that would be all right with William," said Lizzy.
"He won't mind. Besides there are plenty of guest rooms you could use."
"I think we'll have to," said Mrs. Gardiner. "Caroline's few minutes have turned into half an hour."
Just then Caroline walked out of the shop carrying a garment bag.
"What did you buy," asked Georgianna.
"It's a surprise," said Caroline mysteriously. "But I guarantee you've never seen anything like it."
Georgianna and Lizzy's eyes met in the rear view mirror. Lizzy raised an eyebrow and Georgianna had to look out the window in order not to laugh.
Chapter 41
"Will!" shouted Georgianna. She ran to her brother and began talking excitedly.
"Calm down, Georgie. How was shopping?"
"It was wonderful. Elizabeth and Aunt Maddie helped me pick out the most beautiful outfit. I'm going to wear it tonight for dinner."
"Aunt Maddie?" said William with raised eyebrows.
"I told her to call me that," said Mrs. Gardiner. "There was no need to be so formal."
"Then that must make me Uncle Edmund," said Mr. Gardiner laughing.
"You don't mind do you?" asked Georgianna
"Of course not," he said with a smile. He put his arm around her and they walked up the steps.
"William, since we were so long, I told Elizabeth and Aunt Maddie that they could shower and change for dinner here at Pemberley."
"Good idea, little sister." They all walked into the large entryway and up the staircase to the second level, William said, "Georgie, why don't you show Edmund and Madeline to the guest room that Aunt Rebecca uses when she visits. I'll show Elizabeth where she can change."
Georgianna led Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner to the right, while William led Lizzy to the left. She followed him down the long hallway until he stopped and opened a door. He stepped back and motioned for her to go in.
"Everything you need should be in there, but if not, pick up the phone and dial 739. That's Mrs. Reynolds office. She'll take care of you. You've got about an hour and a half before dinner."
"Thank you, William."
He smiled and closed the door.
Lizzy hung up her clothes and walked into the bathroom. There was a vanity table, a shower compartment and, in the corner, a whirlpool tub.
Lizzy decided to soak in the tub first and then take a quick shower. She wrapped herself in a big fluffy towel and went into the bedroom. While dressing, she looked around the room. It was a large bedchamber with a sitting area at one end. It seemed it was decorated not just for a man or just for a woman, but for both. The bed was a large four poster in cherry wood with a fluffy comforter and several pillows. I could be very comfortable in this room, she thought.
After dressing, she sat in front of the mirror and tried to decide how to wear her hair. She pulled it up and let it down several times. She had gathered it up loosely in the back, when there was a knock at the door. She opened it to find Georgianna.
"Elizabeth, you look wonderful!" Georgianna exclaimed as she walked in.
"Thanks. Hey that lilac looks fantastic on you!"
"I really like it. Thanks again for helping me pick it out."
"Has your brother seen it yet?"
"No, I thought we'd make a grand entrance together." Georgianna sat down on the bed.
"Georgianna, who normally stays in this room?"
"It's the master bedroom. No one stays in here, now."
"Now?"
"This was my parent's room," said Georgianna quietly.
"Your parent's room," whispered Lizzy as she sunk into a chair. "Why would William let me use it if no one uses it any more."
Georgianna stood up and walked over to where Lizzy was sitting. "Elizabeth, I think you and I both know why Will wanted you to use this room."
Lizzy looked up at Georgianna with the hint of tears in her eyes.
"I didn't know if you'd have any jewelry to wear with your new outfit, so I brought something I thought would look nice." She handed Lizzy a gold chain that had a marquis cut garnet set in filigree.
Lizzy took it carefully. "Georgianna, this is beautiful. Is it yours?"
"Yes, Will gave it to me when I graduated high school." Georgianna walked to the door and opened it.
"Do you think he'll mind me wearing it?" said Lizzy as she put it on.
Georgianna just looked at her with a grin and rolled her eyes, "Yeah, I'm sure he'll tear it from your neck."
Lizzy smiled, slipped on her sandals and followed Georgianna out the door.
As the two women started down the hall, another door opened and William walked out. He had dressed in dark gray pants and crisp white shirt that was open at the collar. He was rolling the sleeves up as he came out of the door.
"Wow," he said. "You two are absolutely stunning."
"It's all Elizabeth's doing," said Georgianna. "She found this outfit."
"But you're the one who makes it so pretty," said Lizzy. "Besides, you're the one who convinced me to buy this," she motioned to her own outfit, "even though 'some people' think I look like a 'country lass."
When William looked confused, Georgianna said, "Caroline."
"Don't you think she looks romantic, Will," said Georgianna.
"Yes," he replied, "I think she looks very beautiful." William met Lizzy's eyes met. Georgianna cleared her throat.
"What do you think of the necklace, Will?"
William's eyes came to rest on the garnet pendant around Lizzy's neck, then moved to look in her eyes. "I think Elizabeth compliments it quite nicely."
Lizzy blushed and cast her eyes down.
"Shall we go on down to dinner," asked William, offering an arm to each lady.
The three of them made their way downstairs and into the parlor that the family used as a living room. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner and Charles were already there.
"Well," said Mr. Gardiner, "don't you all look nice."
"Georgianna and Lizzy those outfits are perfect," said Mrs. Gardiner.
"Isn't my outfit perfect?" asked William with a mock air of wounded pride.
Charles stood and moved over to the bar. "Can I get any of you a drink?"
William and Lizzy declined, but Georgianna asked for a ginger ale. They were laughing as the men told of "the one that got away," when Caroline entered the room. Everything came to a halt and they all stared as she walked over to the bar.
Starting from the ground up, Caroline wore the brand new bright lemon-yellow spike heels with sequin swirls. Next came nylons that looked like they had been sprayed with glitter. Then the dress: The skirt hit about twelve inches above her knees, the bodice had spaghetti straps made of sequins and the neckline plunged deeper than the Titanic. All of this was exaggerated by the material; lemon yellow and fluorescent orange tie dyed silk. To top off this "masterpiece," Caroline had slicked her hair back and up as tight as she could get it. The excess was twisted into a tight knot and was accented with sequins in the same colors as the dress.
When no one said anything, Caroline asked, "Well, what do you think of my new outfit?" She looked at Georgianna, "didn't I tell you you'd never seen anything like it."
William, Charles and Mr. Gardiner looked like deer caught in a headlight. Georgianna and Lizzy kept quiet for fear of laughing themselves silly. Only Mrs. Gardiner found her voice.
"So that's a Paris original."
Chapter 42
The group recovered from the shock of Caroline's entrance just in time for dinner. Charles offered his arm to Georgianna. Caroline stepped forward to take William's' arm. She was mortified to see him offer it to Lizzy instead. The steam was just about to escape when Charles approached her and offered her his other arm. She took it roughly and practically dragged he and Georgianna into the dining room. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner followed behind exchanging amused looks.
Mrs. Reynolds had seen to everything. From the delicious meal to the placement of flowers at each of the ladies places to the seating arrangements. Everyone exclaimed how nice everything was. Everyone that is but Caroline. She had hoped to monopolize William's attention all through the meal and put Elizabeth Bennet in her place. But much to her dismay, Caroline wasn't seated near William.
He sat at the head of the table with Elizabeth on his left and Georgianna on his right. Charles sat at the foot of the table. Next to Georgianna sat Mr. Gardiner. Next to Elizabeth sat Mrs. Gardiner. Caroline almost blew her stack when she realized that she would have to sit between her brother and Mr. Gardiner through the entire meal.
She cut off any attempt Charles made to engage her in conversation and answered Mr. Gardiner in cool, brief sentences. Her eyes were riveted to the infuriating scene at the head of the table. William actually seemed to be enjoying himself! That Bennet woman must have spun quite a web, she thought. And she's entangled poor Georgianna in it as well.
Dinner progressed quite nicely for everyone else. Charles was absolutely thrilled to talk with Mrs. Gardiner. Every now and then, he would chance a question in the general area of her nieces, hoping to hear something of Jane. He completely missed the daggers Caroline shot him on such occasions.
William was in his glory. He was seated between the two women he loved and respected more than anything. Mr. Gardiner, having a disposition quite like Mr. Bennet, sat happily enjoying the scene in silence.
As they were finishing their dessert, Caroline decided to make her move.
"So, Elizabeth, how are things in Hertfordshire? Still country and all that?"
"Hertfordshire is just fine, Caroline. The countryside is just beginning to turn green." Just like you, she added in her head.
"And do you have lots of friends that keep you busy?"
"I have a few friends that I go out with. I work a great deal and that doesn't leave much time for leisure activities."
"Surely, there must be one person you particularly enjoy spending time with."
"I spend a lot of time with Jane, if that's what you mean."
"Don't be coy," Caroline oozed. "I meant there must be a man in your life."
"Actually there is one man I see quite regularly," Lizzy said as she took a bite of her chocolate mousse.
"And what is his name, perhaps we may know him," said Caroline with an evil smile. William and Georgianna looked a little surprised both at Caroline's questions and Lizzy's answers.
"You do know him," said Lizzy with sparkling eyes, "His name is Edward Bennet, my father."
William and Georgianna were visibly relieved. Caroline's face flushed for a moment, but then she said something that brought everyone's attention to Lizzy.
"I was speaking of boyfriends, Elizabeth. I had heard through the grapevine that you and George Wickham were quite an item."
William looked up at Caroline suddenly then turned to Georgianna. Georgianna was looking down into her lap, her cheeks flushed. Charles, who knew a very little of William's business with Wickham, looked at his sister with an angry countenance. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were silent.
Elizabeth glanced at Georgianna, then to William then looked Caroline right in the eyes.
"I'm afraid your grapevine has produced some sour grapes, Caroline. Nothing could be further from the truth."
Before Caroline could compose herself enough to speak, Lizzy turned to Georgianna.
"Georgianna," she said softly, "if we are to give our concert, perhaps we should go and pick out some music."
Georgianna raised her eyes to Lizzy and smiled just a little. "Yes," she whispered.
William smiled encouragingly at his sister then turned to Lizzy and mouthed the words "Thank you."
Mrs. Gardiner, with an offer to turn pages, joined Lizzy and Georgianna.
With an angry glance at Caroline, William asked Charles and Mr. Gardiner if they would like to see the new fly fishing rod that had arrived today. Charles told the other two to go on, he'd join them in a few minutes.
After they were gone, Charles looked Caroline directly in the eyes. "Caroline, I don't know where you've gotten this attitude, but if you ever hope to find someone to share your life with, you'd better learn to behave better than you have this evening. It wouldn't surprise me if William never asked you back to Pemberley." He stood up and threw his napkin down in disgust and left the room.
Alone in the dining room, Caroline was confused. Confused and angry. She had meant to show up that little country snit, but instead she had seemed to draw hostility from everyone.
Chapter 43
William had never seen his sister so open with anyone but himself. He took a seat where he could have an unobstructed view of the piano.
Caroline was the last to enter, and after a glance in William's direction, took a seat on the other side of the room.
Georgianna called for everyone's attention. "Ladies and Gentlemen," she began trying to be serious, "I welcome you to this evening's entertainment. An evening of surprises." She turned and sat down at the piano as everyone clapped.
With a glance at Lizzy, she began to play what, at first appeared to be a country song. However, as Lizzy began to sing,
My mother was frightened by a shotgun one day, that's why I'm such a wonderful shot.
I go out in the cactus and I practice all day, and now tell me what I've got.I'm quick on the trigger with target's not much bigger than a pinpoint, I'm number one.
But my score with the fellers' is lower than a cellar oh you can't get a man with a gun.I'm cool brave and daring to see a lion raring when I'm out with my Remington
But when I'm with a mister I raise a fever blister, oh you can't get a man with a gun.With a gun, with a gun, no you can't get a man with a gun*
(*From the stage play, "Annie Get Your Gun" I don't remember who wrote it)
Georgianna struck the last note and everyone erupted into applause and laughter.
Next Georgianna played a beautiful piano solo. As the last chord faded, the entire room seemed to sigh in appreciation.
Georgianna and Lizzy took turns playing and singing for an hour. Some pieces were comical, and some were serious; all were well received by their audience. Mrs. Gardiner pitched in every now and then to turn pages or play while both girls sang.
Georgianna announced that the next piece would be their finale piece. She sat down, lifted her hands to play, then quickly stood up and whispered something in Lizzy's ear. Lizzy kept shaking her head, but Georgianna kept pleading until finally Lizzy gave in.
Georgianna played and Lizzy sang.
The song was Unforgettable.
As Lizzy sang the last line, she couldn't stop her eyes from resting on William. His eyes had never left her.
Chapter 44
Georgianna walked out in between Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner; with her arms linked with theirs. William offered Lizzy his arm and they slowly followed behind.
When they reached the steps, Williams stopped. He turned and looked at Lizzy. William took her hands. "Thank you again for taking care of Georgie this evening. I could have strangled Caroline."
Lizzy squeezed his hands, "I'm just sorry that she had the ammunition to shoot that remark off in the first place."
"Not your fault," he said. "Elizabeth, would you like to go on a picnic with me tomorrow?"
Lizzy smiled shyly, "I'd like that very much."
William had to catch his breath. "I'll pick you up around 12:00. Is that ok?"
"Perfect."
They continued down the steps, but instead of taking his arm, Lizzy entwined her fingers in his.
They reached the car where Mr. Gardiner stood with the door open waiting for Lizzy to climb in.
"Thank you both so much for such a wonderful evening," said Lizzy.
Georgianna impulsively threw her arms around Lizzy and exclaimed, "I had a great time today. I hope we can do it again!"
"Me, too, Georgianna," Lizzy hugged her back.
After releasing Lizzy, Georgianna kissed Mr. Gardiner on the cheek, then walked around the car and kissed Mrs. Gardiner as well.
William wanted to kiss Lizzy, but couldn't work up the nerve, especially with their relatives looking on. He reluctantly began to offer her his help to get into the car. He thought she was going to take his hand, but he found, instead, that she was moving to hug him. She shyly slipped her arms around his waist. He responded by enfolding her in his arms. He wanted to hold her like this forever, but a throat clearing from Mr. Gardiner brought both of them to their senses.
As he released her, she whispered, "I can't wait until tomorrow." Then before he knew it she was in the back seat of the car.
His heart soared! He could barely stand still long enough to say good-bye and watch them drive away. He wanted to shout out his happiness to the whole world.
"Nice way to end an evening, wouldn't you say, big brother," said Georgianna, before she ran up the stairs and into the house.
William couldn't agree with her more.
Chapter 45
When he entered, he could see a female figure standing at the far end. Thinking it was Georgianna; he walked over to her.
"Georgie?"
The woman turned around at the sound of his voice.
"Caroline!" William stopped. "What are you doing up this late?"
"I couldn't sleep," she said quietly.
"Are you feeling all right?" He had never seen her so unemotional.
"I'm fine, William." She turned back to the window. "May I ask a question?"
"Sure," he said.
"What is it about her that capture's your attention?"
"I beg your pardon."
Caroline turned around to face him. Without make up, she looked child-like and vulnerable.
"Elizabeth Bennet. Why is it that you find her more interesting than me?"
William took a deep breath. He didn't want to hurt her feelings, but he wanted to be honest. "I guess it has a lot to do with the fact that she isn't impressed by my social standing or my money."
"And."
"She likes the simple things. She cares about people; makes them feel at ease. I'm not sure how to explain it, but somehow we connect."
"I see." Caroline walked toward the door, then stopped and turned toward him. "I would have done anything for you."
"I don't think so," said William
Caroline walked back to him. "You don't think so?" she said, anger and sadness mixing together. "How do you know? You have no idea of how much I love you."
"Caroline, please," he began, putting his hand on her shoulder.
She pulled away from him. "Keep your pity and your kind words. Someday you'll see just how much you missed when you chose her over me. And you'll be sorry." She turned quickly and ran from the room
William sighed deeply.
Chapter 46
She got up, showered, dressed and joined her aunt and uncle for breakfast. As they sat at the table, Lizzy just sort of scooted her food around her plate; her chin resting on her other hand.
"Well, I guess at least one of us had a good time last night," said Mr. Gardiner.
"I'd say one of us hasn't quite made it out of dreamland," replied Mrs. Gardiner.
Lizzy finally realized that they were talking about her. She grinned sheepishly, "Sorry, I guess you caught me."
"He's a fine man, Lizzy," said Mr. Gardiner. "I believe your father would like him very much."
"I'm afraid that I may have to explain him to Dad," said Lizzy. "My first impressions on William's personality were not quite what they are now."
"Your father trusts your judgment," said Mrs. Gardiner. "Besides, one look at the two of you together and he'll understand completely."
Lizzy took each of their hands in her own. "Thank you."
"For what," said Mrs. Gardiner.
"For bringing me on this trip; for coming to Derbyshire; for insisting on seeing Pemberley. For everything. You two are so very special to me."
"You're very special to us to, sweetie," said Mr. Gardiner as he squeezed her hand.
After breakfast, the Gardiners went to visit with some old friends and Lizzy decided to call Jane to check on things at home.
She got Jane's voice mail so she tried her at home. She got the answering machine, "Jane! Hi, its Lizzy. Just calling to check in with the homefront. I'm going out around 12, but call me when you get this message."
Lizzy amused herself until William came, by reading, changing her clothes, watching television, changing her hairstyle, playing solitaire, changing her clothes again. She wasn't expecting William until 12, so she was startled when someone knocked on the door at 11:30. She went to answer it expecting to see a housekeeper or bellboy, but it was William.
"You're early," she said with a smile.
"Sorry, it didn't take as long as I thought it would to get everything together and come over. I hope you don't mind."
"Not at all. Let me leave Aunt Maddie a note and we can go."
She was just signing her name to the note when the phone rang.
"Hello? Jane! Hi, I'm so glad you got…." Lizzy's face clouded up as she listened. "Oh no." Lizzy sat down in the nearest chair.
William moved to stand next to her and, at Lizzy's invitation he shared the receiver with her.
"Jane, take a deep breath and start from the beginning."
There was a pause on the line. "Lydia's in the hospital in Monte Carlo. They think she may have taken a drug overdose."
"A drug overdose? Is she all right?" William slipped his arm around Lizzy's shoulders.
"She's in critical condition. The doctors say she may be a coma." Jane's voice broke and she began to cry.
"Jane, please, get a hold of yourself and tell me everything you know. How did this happen?"
Jane finally was able to speak again. "Sherry Forester said that Lydia had been hanging out with some of the guys from the airport. One night they all went out together and Lydia didn't come home. The next morning, they got a call from the hospital saying that she was there."
"I don't believe it," said Lizzy. "Lydia's wild but I never thought she'd get into drugs."
"Lizzy, there's more."
"More," Lizzy asked reluctantly.
"George Wickham was in Monte Carlo."
Both William and Lizzy stiffened. Lizzy felt her blood run cold. William put his head down.
"How do you know?"
"Just before all of this happened, Kitty got a letter from Lydia saying that George was there and that they had been inseparable since he arrived. Kitty never told anyone; Lydia told her not to."
"Oh, Jane." Lizzy started to cry. William took the phone from Lizzy.
"Jane. William Darcy here. Do they think George is involved with Lydia's overdose?"
Jane was surprised to hear William's voice. "William? Ah, I'm not sure. My father has gone to Monte Carlo to take care of Lydia and to see what's being done. Captain Forster seemed to think that Lydia and George never went with the rest of the group that night. No one remembers seeing them."
"Does anyone know where he is now?"
"No. Everyone's being pretty closed mouth about the whole thing."
Lizzy had composed herself and got back on the phone. "Jane, as soon as I can find Aunt Maddie and Uncle Edmund, we'll be on our way home. See you soon, love you. Bye."
Lizzy hung up the phone and stood motionless.
"Elizabeth?" William turned her towards him. She looked up into his eyes and burst into tears. He wrapped his arms around her and let her cry. She clung to him sobbing for almost ten minutes. Finally, she remembered about finding her aunt and uncle.
"I've got to find them, so we can get moving," she said. She started for the door.
"You're not going anywhere," he said, leading her to the couch. She started to protest. "I'll go find them. You just sit here and relax."
"But…" she began.
"No, buts," he said. "Where did they go?"
Lizzy told him where they had gone. As it turned out, William knew the people they were visiting. With another hug, he left.
By the time William found the Gardiners, explained, in part, what had happened and got them back to the inn, Lizzy had packed her things and was waiting for them.
"Lizzy," cried her aunt. Lizzy hugged her aunt and then her uncle. William started to leave but Mr. Gardiner stopped him.
"William," he said quietly. "Would you mind sitting with Lizzy until we're ready to leave? I hesitate to leave her alone while we pack and check out."
"Of course, sir."
The Gardiners went into their room to pack their things. Lizzy was standing looking out the window. William walked up behind her and put his hands on her shoulders. She leaned back against him. He slipped his arms around her and held her firmly.
"William, what's to be done?"
"Don't worry. It will all be taken care of. I promise you that."
"But if George is involved…" she began to cry again.
William held her tighter and rocked ever so slightly, trying to calm her.
Within half an hour, they were ready to leave. William walked down to the car with them; his arm around Lizzy's shoulders. She didn't seem to want him to let go of her.
Mr. Gardiner was putting the luggage in the trunk, so William opened the door for Lizzy.
She turned to him before getting in. "Please tell Georgianna I'm sorry I didn't get to say good bye." Her eyes suddenly widened in horror. "Oh poor, Georgianna. When she hears about this, will she be upset?"
William put his arms around her. "Don't worry about Georgianna. I'll make sure she's ok. I'm more worried about you right now."
Lizzy leaned her head on his shoulder. "I wish this hadn't happened."
"So do I." He pulled back and looked into her eyes. "But it's only delayed things a bit. Nothing is over."
She smiled a little through her tears. "You owe me a picnic."
"Say the word and I'll be there." This time even though her aunt and uncle were there, he leaned in and kissed her, softly.
When they parted, he helped her into the car. "Remember what I said. It will all be taken care of." She smiled and nodded.
William turned to Mr. Gardiner and spoke to him for a few minutes in quiet tones. Then with a final look at Elizabeth, he turned and left.
Chapter 47
They arrived at the Bennet home well after midnight. The front porch light was on and Lizzy could see a light on in her father's study. Before she could dig out her keys and open the door, Jane opened the door and threw her arms around Lizzy.
"Oh, Lizzy," Jane cried. "I'm so glad you're home."
They clung to each other for a moment then Jane hugged her aunt and uncle. They all went into Mr. Bennet's study where Jane had tea waiting for them.
"Have you heard anything more?" asked Lizzy anxiously.
Jane tried to pour tea but her hands were shaking, so Mrs. Gardiner took over. "Father, called to say that Lydia had improved slightly but the doctors were still being cautious."
"And what about Wickham?"
"There's been no sign of him. A couple of the guys said they thought he had left Monte Carlo for London, but no one seems to be able to confirm that."
Mr. Gardiner paced about the room. "What are your father's plans, Jane?"
"He wants to track down Wickham, but he doesn't want to leave Lydia."
Mr. Gardiner paced another length. "Do you have a number where he can be reached?"
Yes, it's over there by the phone."
He looked at the number then turned to the ladies. "I suggest we all get some sleep. I'll call Edward in the morning and we'll figure out what to do."
They all agreed with him. As they were going upstairs, Mr. Gardiner stopped, said something about forgetting something in the study and for the rest of them to go on.
He waited until the women were out of sight then went into the study and closed the door. He pulled out a slip of paper and dialed the number on it.
"William? Edmund Gardiner. Yes, we made it back safely. Listen, I've been thinking about what you said." He talked with William for about twenty minutes then hung up the phone and went to bed.
Chapter 48
The next day, Mr. Gardiner called Mr. Bennet in Monte Carlo. Lydia seemed to be doing better. The doctors didn't think there would be any brain damage and she would be able to come home in a few days. Mr. Gardiner had convinced Mr. Bennet to stay in Monte Carlo and bring Lydia home when she was released. He got a few phone numbers and then hung up.
After Mr. Gardiner reported to the rest of the family what Mr. Bennet said, he shut himself up in the study with orders not to be disturbed. When he emerged shortly before dinner, he looked tired.
Mrs. Bennet had chosen to take dinner in her room, something the entire family was thankful for. She had spent most of the day lamenting over Lydia's condition, and complaining about her "poor nerves."
Mr. Gardiner sat at the head of the table. "I'll be leaving for London tomorrow morning."
Before he could say anything else, Lizzy asked, "Have you heard something?"
"Please, Lizzy. I'm going to consult with our lawyer and with some friends I have in the police department. From what I can get out of anybody in Monte Carlo, Wickham had definite plans to go to London. I guess it's the best place to start." He paused.
"There's something else, isn't there," asked Lizzy.
"I'm afraid there is," he said. "It seems that Wickham's been doing a little drug trafficking and it's possible that Lydia has been involved."
"No," cried Jane.
"Involved how?" said Lizzy.
"The police think she may have been carrying packages back and forth from London to Hertfordshire. As soon as Lydia's well enough, they want to talk to her."
"Will she be arrested," asked Jane.
"I don't know. If she cooperates, they may take it easy on her."
"If indeed she's involved," said Mrs. Gardiner. "That's not been proven yet, has it?"
"Not yet."
"But you think it will," said Jane.
"Lydia's gotten herself involved with some pretty shady characters, but it's possible that she didn't know what she was doing."
"Not likely," said Lizzy.
"Dear," said Mrs. Gardiner. "I think I shall stay here and make myself useful, if you don't mind." Lizzy and Jane smiled appreciatively.
"I think that's a fine idea."
After dinner, Jane and Lizzy sat out on the porch.
"Lizzy," said Jane, "why was William Darcy there when I called?"
Lizzy smiled slightly. "We met by chance when Aunt Maddie insisted on touring Pemberley. He showed up unexpectedly."
"But I thought you two didn't like each other. Has all of that changed?"
"He introduced us to his sister, Georgianna."
"What was she like?"
"She's terrific. You'd like her a lot. She's got a lot of spunk like Lydia, but she's not wild. She's intelligent and talented."
"And getting back to William?"
"Oh, Jane. Being at Pemberley with William was like a dream. He was so warm and sweet. He took Uncle fishing, he was attentive to Aunt Maddie."
"And to you?"
Lizzy sighed. "He acted like the stuff at Rosings never happened. When you called, he was like this tower of strength. If he hadn't been there I don't know what I would have done."
"Are you going to see him again?"
"I don't know."
"Lizzy," said Jane gently, "do you love him?"
"I think so." She got up and walked to the railing then turned to Jane with full eyes. "I know I do. But now, with all of this stuff happening…"
"Why should that matter?"
"Jane! It's bad enough that Lydia's gotten herself into this mess, but to get mixed up with George Wickham, whose probably William's biggest enemy…." Lizzy collapsed into a chair.
"If he loves you, I doubt that any of this will make a difference."
Lizzy just shook her head.
Early the next morning, Mr. Gardiner left for London. He told them he would call them as soon as he had heard anything.
The next few days the ladies spent trying not to think of the whole mess. Mrs. Bennet kept mostly to her room, to the great relief of all the others.
One afternoon, Lizzy was sitting in her office when the phone rang.
"Hello?"
"Lizzy?" said a familiar voice.
"Father!" cried Lizzy. "How are you?"
"Lizzy, has Lydia come home?"
"Come home! I thought she was still in the hospital."
"I was supposed to check her out this morning, but when I arrived at the hospital, the nurse told me that Lydia checked herself out last night."
"She's not here, Dad."
"I was afraid of that." He was silent for a moment. "Lizzy, I'm going to call your uncle and see if he's heard anything."
"I'm so sorry that you've had to go through this."
"I'll be all right. Who but me should suffer. It was my fault, I shouldn't' have allowed her so much freedom. I've learned a lesson, too."
"Now, Father, don't be so hard on yourself. There was no way you could have foreseen this."
"I'll just be glad when this is all over and we can return to a quiet life."
"I swear if I ever see that George Wickham again, I'll tear him limb from limb."
"You'll have to stand in line, my dear."
Mr. Bennet promised to call Lizzy as soon as knew anything. They talked for a few minutes more then hung up. Lizzy was concerned about her father. He sounded tired and dejected.
Lizzy immediately called Jane to tell her what was going on.
Mr. Bennet called Lizzy and Jane at home later that night to tell them that he would be home the next day and he would tell them everything then.
They decided not to tell Mrs. Bennet. "No need to throw her into hysterics," said Lizzy.
Chapter 49
Once they were behind closed doors, Mr. Bennet told them what he knew.
"I spoke with Edmund last night. He hasn't found George yet, but he has a private investigator looking for him."
"A private investigator," said Jane. "That must be awfully expensive."
"Yes, I'm sure it is." Mr. Bennet stood looking out the window. "I checked with the airlines and apparently Lydia caught a flight to London two days ago. I contacted the airline, but they didn't have an address or phone number for her. She paid for her ticket in cash."
"Where would Lydia have gotten that kind of money," said Lizzy.
"I shudder to think about it."
"Father," said Jane quietly. "Do you think Lydia is involved in the drug trafficking?"
"With her running off like this, it certainly appears that she is." He sat down at the desk and put his head in his hands. "Right now, Jane, I can't think at all."
Lizzy stood behind her father and rubbed his shoulders. "Is there anything we can do from here?"
"Not really. Your uncle said he had everything under control in London and for me to stay here in case she calls or comes home."
"I'm sorry to bring this up right now," said Jane. "But one of us ought to call Mother."
Lizzy sighed. "She's right. Mom doesn't even know you're home."
"I'll do it," said Mr. Bennet. "I'll have to talk with her at some point so I may as well get it over with now."
The girls waited while he called Mrs. Bennet. They could hear her shrieking about 'poor Lydia' and 'why had Mr. Bennet come home without her." He quietly explained everything several times and after about thirty minutes finally hung up the phone.
Chapter 50
Late one afternoon, Lizzy and Jane were on their way into Mr. Bennet's office when Mrs. Hill, his secretary, asked, "Excuse me for asking, but I was wondering if Mr. Gardiner had any good news."
"Mr. Gardiner called," they both exclaimed.
"Your father received a large fax from him about an hour ago," she responded, surprised, "I thought that by now, your father must have told you."
Neither of them answered, they ran quickly into Mr. Bennet's office. He was standing at the window looking out over the airfield.
"Father," said Lizzy, "what have you heard from Uncle Edmund?"
He turned slowly. "Yes, I've had a message from your uncle."
"What did he say?"
"I hardly know," he said. "The fax is on my desk. Why don't you read it out loud, maybe then it will make sense."
Lizzy snatched the papers up from the desk and began to read aloud.
Gracechurch StreetEdward,
You'll be relieved to hear that I have found George Wickham and, more importantly, I've found Lydia! She is alive and well.
"She's fine!" exclaimed Jane.
"Read on," said Mr. Bennet.
We spent much of the night and this morning at the police station. We have convinced Lydia to cooperate with the police and in return for her cooperation, there will be no charges against her.
"Thank God," said Jane.
"Read on," said Mr. Bennet.
George Wickham has been accused of drug trafficking, possession with intent to sell, and attempted murder. It appears that Lydia found out exactly what she was involved in and wanted out. Wickham wasn't going to let her out that easy. He slipped something into her drinks and, after she was too high to notice, he shot her full of something, then left her for dead. Luckily someone got her to the hospital.Lydia didn't know it was Wickham that had gotten her so messed up. When he found out that she was still alive, he contacted her in the hospital and convinced her that someone else gave her the drugs. He also persuaded her to fly to London to meet him. There he planned to finish what he started in Monte Carlo. Fortunately, we found them just in time.
Wickham is now behind bars and Lydia is with Maddie and me.
"That seems to solve everything," said Lizzy cautiously.
"Read on," said Mr. Bennet.
She'll have to stay with us until after the hearing, then, with your approval, she'd like to come home. When the case goes to trial, she'll have to come back to London.The only thing I need from you is arrangements for her to come home.
Call me when you've had time to absorb all of this. I'll either be at home or at my office.
Yours,
Edmund.
Lizzy looked up from the paper. "This is too easy."
"I agree, Lizzy. Your uncle must have put out a good bit of money to bring all of this about."
"How can we ever repay him," said Jane.
"I'll find some way," said Mr. Bennet with a sigh. "I guess we'd better call your mother with the news. Then I'll contact Edmund. As much as I hate the thought, Lydia should come home."
Jane and Lizzy left their father's office and walked downstairs. They were both lost in thought. Jane was trying to figure out what she would say to Lydia. Lizzy was wondering, now that this was all settled, would she hear from William. She hadn't heard from him at all since they left Lambton. He's probably thanking his luck stars that he escaped without being tarnished by my family's bad behavior, she thought
The next day, the newspapers were filled with the story. There were pictures of George being led away in handcuffs and Lydia being escorted into the police station by a female police officer. Lydia's name was splashed all over the front page of several of the big papers. The articles were full of Longbourn Airlines and the Bennet name.
After Lizzy had read them all, she settled it in her mind that she would never see or hear from William Darcy again.