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Chapter 34
February 10; 8:30 a.m.
Lizzy had woken up with a terrible headache. It was no wonder. After all, she had spent chief of the previous night fretting and crying to herself. And it wasn't just self-pity, thought that played a major role. She just wished that things had been different...5 years ago or even before that. There was nothing she could do about it. A little voice in her head told Lizzy to stop being obstinate and just tell William the truth about everything, but she couldn't. Maybe it was her pride, maybe it was her obstinacy or maybe it was her confused heart. Whatever the reason, she could not bring herself to tell William and if it were up to her, he would never know.
Of course, she reasoned, after last night's escapade, he had every right to be bitter and angry. That was just natural. Lizzy knew that when he'd been leaving, every muscle in her being wanted to run after him and beg him to come back, but it was by sheer will power that she calmly stood there watching him go. After all that she'd said and done, Lizzy wouldn't be surprised if William hated her now. But no... she recalled his parting words to her... 'I'll always love you...never forget that.' Oh! How could he say that?! Why would he love her still after all the awful things she'd done to him since the first time they met. Maybe that is just my curse...thought Lizzy.
Rachel had finished her breakfast and had been asking about William or as she called him, 'Wiaum'. She was under the impression that Wiaum was there to stay since he'd read her a bedtime story last time. With a breaking heart, Lizzy told her that Wiaum was not there. A little dejected, Rachel had quickly accepted the fact and carried on. She was now busy watching Barney. If only her life could have been as easy as that, thought Lizzy.
She was cleaning up the kitchen when her eyes fell on the vase on the table with the roses William had brought her the previous. Unwittingly, few tears escaped her eyes, which she quickly brushed away. The delicate petals, so soft and smooth, reminded her of William and the kiss. She had half a mind to call him and just hear his voice, but she squelched that desire, and went about her work.
Suddenly, the phone rang. Lizzy almost ran to the phone, thinking she might hear from him. "Hello?" she said, breathless. William?
"Hey Lizzy!" said Jane. "Have you been running? You seem out of breath?"
"Oh...Jane," Lizzy was rather disappointed and very mad at herself for being so. "Yeah, I ran to the phone."
"Oh, okay," said Jane. "So, how's the new house?"
"It's pretty good," said Lizzy. "But you have to come here and see for yourself."
"I will," said Jane. "And soon." Then a brief pause. "Are you going back to Dr. Peterson today?"
"Yes," said Lizzy. "He wants to take a few more tests and then we begin therapy next week after the results are in."
"I see," Jane said. "So, what about Rachel?"
"I'll leave her at the child care center opposite my house. That was one of the main reasons I got this place."
"You know, Lizzy...I would have gladly baby-sat for you, but there's this really important meeting today - "
Lizzy cut her off, "It's okay, I can't expect you to drop your life whenever I ask."
"Did you talk to William recently? He asked me your address and I gave it to him. That okay?" Jane had no idea about the events of the previous night.
"Um...he came here last night," said Lizzy, figuring that Jane would find out sooner or later.
"Really?" Jane was interested. "How'd it go?"
Bad! "Suffice it to say that things are happening for the best," said Lizzy, vaguely.
"You are getting back together!" exclaimed Jane, excitedly.
"No," Liz corrected her. "We're no longer on speaking terms..."
"Oh my gosh!" cried Jane. "How'd that happen?"
Lizzy told her in brief. Jane exclaimed, "LIZZY!!! How could you? Poor William!"
Lizzy sighed, "Not you, too, Jane. Believe me, it's all for the best. He'll learn to hate me in time and who knows how long I'll be around anyway..."
"Stop that, this minute, Lizzy," Jane admonished her. "You're going to be an old decrepit grandma, you hear me?"
"Is that supposed to be a compliment?" Lizzy smiled a little, though Jane couldn't see it, obviously.
"Take it whatever way you want," said Jane. "Oh, if I was there with you right now, gosh, I'd be so mad. Argh!"
"Do you think I'm stubborn?" asked Lizzy.
"Like a mule," replied Jane. "Both of you...and that's why I feel sorry for you."
"Don't...," said Lizzy. "Listen Jane, I have to go. I'll talk to you later."
"Bye, Lizzy," said Jane, hanging up the phone. She sighed...some things never change. Apparently, William and Lizzy were one of them. Jane thought about what disservice she was doing them both by not saying anything to William, but she'd promised Liz. But who says promises cannot be broken...once in a while...for the good of many.
Meanwhile, at Pemberley
William sat on the table, quietly sipping coffee and reading the morning paper. He didn't see Georgiana come in and sit on the table. It was only when she cleared her throat that he looked up. "Good morning!!!" exclaimed Georgiana.
Maybe for you, thought William. "Good morning." Said William, with minimum enthusiasm. He, then, promptly returned to reading his paper.
"William!" exclaimed Georgiana. "Are you going to make me ask??? How was it last night?!"
William looked up again, put his paper down, and said, "You want to know what happened? She refused me, that's what happened."
Georgiana's face fell, "What?! But - how - I mean...what did you do? Did you upset her?"
"No," said William, shaking his head. "I didn't do anything repulsive or whatever. It just happened. It's over...once and for all...this time it's final. There's no hope anymore."
"But William!" Georgiana was confused. "How could it happen? I know she loves you..."
"She does," William said quietly. "But that isn't the answer for everything."
"But I don't understand!" exclaimed Georgiana. "What's the problem, then?"
That makes the two of us! "I don't know, Georgie," said William, with a sigh. "I really don't. She gave me no reason. She just wants me to get out of her life. And I will. I promised her...I won't ever be bothering her again."
"This is insane!' cried Georgie. "Gosh! This really is - "
"Georgie," William cut in. "Save it. It's not going to happen. Ever. So can we please not talk about it? I'm really not in the mood."
"But I wanted a sister," said Georgie softly. "Oh well..." She said no more, digesting what William had told her. she could make no sense of it at all. She couldn't believe what Lizzy was doing. It wasn't like her...or maybe it was. After all, Lizzy could be very stubborn. But this was taking it too far. If only, she could talk to Lizzy herself.
The next few days
William didn't mention the incident with Lizzy to anyone, not even Rich. He sort of withdrew to himself, saying little when absolutely necessary. He drowned himself in his work, working very late hours, in spite of Georgie begging him not to. Those who knew Will could see a visible change in him, and unfortunately not for the better. He was more demanding and irritable. But at times, when he thought no one was looking, William could show a softer side of him. He could be found staring out at empty space a lot, showing the preoccupation of his mind.
Richard had heard the whole story from Georgie, who'd called him very concerned. Rich tried to talk to William, but he shut him out. Rich discussed it with Caroline, who told him about her talk with Lizzy. Apparently, it seemed like there was no way out of this situation. If both the principals involved refused to resolve the problem themselves and refused to talk about it, there was nothing anyone could do. Rich and Caroline grieved for William and Lizzy since they both knew what pain love could bring. But they could not help but rejoice on their own better position.
Lizzy busied herself in getting her house fully organized before she returned to work in couple of days. She had to go to Dr. Peterson's twice, and the results of the tests weren't in yet. She feared the worst. Generally very optimistic, Lizzy wasn't sure why she had a bad feeling about her condition. Maybe it was because she was never sick, or maybe she just was afraid. At least, Rachel was doing fine. That was a big relief for Lizzy. She sometimes felt like she wasn't being fair to Rachel depriving her of a father, but John's death hadn't been her choice. Lizzy avoided talking to Jane or Caroline because she didn't want to hear their reproaches or any news about William.
Jane was at a loss about what to do with her sister. She rarely called anymore, and seldom took her calls. She refused 2 invitations for dinner and hadn't been talking with anyone. She was depressed, Jane was sure. She was scared about her condition and felt alone. But why was she shutting everyone out was beyond Jane. She understood that Lizzy would not want to talk about her dealings with William, but Jane had never intended to press her on that subject. If only Lizzy would just let her in and tell her what she felt. Jane could sense her sister slipping away. Jane also knew that Lizzy was not happy. How could she be? That would be unnatural. Most probably she was very depressed and was keeping that to herself. Jane was very confused. She didn't know what to do.
February 14; St. Valentine's Day
Generally considered Cupid's finest time, this day always symbolized love and friendship. It was a day of harmony and joy, of promises and felicitations. It was beautiful day to love and be loved. That is, of course, if the one you love wanted to be loved...by you. And there lies the root of the problem.
Jane and Charles had planned a romantic dinner and picnic for this special day. They invited Lizzy to join them, for part of the celebration at least, but she declined, claiming that she had too much to do before going to work the next day. But Jane didn't buy that story. At any rate, she let Lizzy be, planning on her own course of action. But the day was too good to waste on such worries. So just for one day, Jane rid herself of all worries of Lizzy and decided to just enjoy herself.
Richard and Caroline had gone away for the weekend to some skiing resort...sort of a romantic getaway. Both of them loved to ski and what really mattered was that they'd be together. They had decided to quit trying to interfere with Lizzy and William. Their friends would probably appreciate it. They knew that it bothered them, but not everything is in our own hands.
Lizzy spent Valentine's day at home, with Rachel. She had not wanted to interfere with Jane's plans and was too afraid to go out anywhere lest she might run into William. the day was like any other for Rachel, who obviously did not know the significance of Valentine's day. Lizzy indulged herself by looking at old, photo albums of her childhood, college days, wedding, etc. She found herself inevitably attracted to the pictures of William from Yale. He looked so young...he had a boyish smile. He really ought to smile more...it made him twice as handsome, especially with his dimples.
Lizzy saw pictures of her and John from their wedding day. They looked so happy in the pictures. Lizzy smiled cynically. Those pictures didn't reflect any of her inner turmoil. She was happy and she did love John. But there was William...he'd shown up for the wedding even. She had seen him when she was walking down the aisle. But he had left before she had had a chance to talk to him. Perhaps that had been better. There had been nothing to talk about. After the ceremony, at the reception, she remembered scanning the crowd looking for him. She remembered John bending down and telling her, "He is gone, Lizzy." That had really shocked her. The thought that John knew her so well that he could read her mind, surprised and impressed her. And she was confused because she didn't want him to think that she was looking for William, that she regretted her decision. So, she had smiled and said nothing. Hence, the pictures just showed a smiling and serene-looking Lizzy in a lovely, white dress with a handsome John. Probably a very deceptive picture.
Lizzy sighed as she closed her albums resolving not to dwell in the past anymore. It wasn't easy, of course, especially on a day like this. She clutched the necklace that she had worn ever since Christmas. It was the one William had given her...the one with the locket and the picture inside. She treasured it like nothing else. That picture was the symbol of their friendship...John, William and her. she never took it off, if she could help it. It stayed close to her heart always and reminded her of the two most important men in her life...both of whom she had lost...through circumstances beyond her control.
William spent the day at Pemberley, with Georgie. She had tried to cheer him up, but had given up after a while. She had suggested them going out to dinner, but William said that he preferred to stay at home. He feared that he might run into Lizzy if he ventured out and that was something he wanted to avoid at all costs. It was not that he didn't want to see her. He did, more than anything in the world. But he knew that if he did see her, it would be hard to contain his emotions and he feared he might create a scene unpleasant to more than himself.
He had to squelch the great urge he had to call her...just to hear her voice. But he held back, knowing that it would upset him more than he was already. He wasn't going to pretend that it didn't hurt him. Of course, it did. But now that the whole thing was out of his hands, William tried to forget it had ever happened. He'd laid his heart for Lizzy, but she didn't want it. That was the end of that, so to speak. He couldn't very well stalk her, could he? So, all that was left for him to do was to try to forget about her. But that impossible, too. It was not an alternative. William would just have to learn to live with the fact that the one person he loved the most loved him too but didn't want to have anything to do with him. Rather perplexing, but true.
He put on some old home videos he had from the college days. It had been John's hobby...to make videos. John had been very talented too. He had given William some videos as a gift way back. William felt that he needed to see them again. He decided to watch one when they were all celebrating Thanksgiving together at school, when none of them had gone home. He smiled as the video started with Jane and Charles snuggling on the sofa. Some things never change. Those two made a cute couple back then, and they made a cute couple now. Then, the camera focussed on Charlotte in the kitchen, probably making some stuffing for the turkey. She was always the best cook. And then, he saw Charlotte saw something to a figure in the back of the kitchen. William held his breath. It was Lizzy.
She had an apron on, and was helping Charlotte, as always. She smiled at the camera and waved before continuing her work. She pushed some errant curls away from her face, concentrating on the food. Cooking wasn't Lizzy's strongest point, but she tried. William smiled as he saw Lizzy drop some eggs on the floor and curse, Charlotte was laughing and so was John, apparently as William heard sniggering behind the camera. But Lizzy didn't seem to find it funny as she glared at Charlotte and the camera, insisting that John get out of the kitchen right away. And he did.
The next shot showed them at the dinner table. And for the first time, William saw himself in the video. That was the time when he still didn't like Lizzy that much and Lizzy hated him. He smiled bitterly as he saw that he was sitting next to her and she was ignoring him completely. That should have told him of things to come. But if only he hadn't been such a jerk then...William pushed the 'Stop' button as he didn't want to see anymore. The video did more to depress him than anything else. It made him come to terms with what he'd lost...permanently.
2 days later; Messieurs Fitzwilliam & Darcy
There was a buzz at William's intercom as his secretary Linda said, "There's a Mrs. Jane Bingley to see you, sir."
Jane! What the -- ? "Oh...send her in, Linda," said William, trying to decide what Jane would be doing there and on a workday, too. She might need legal advice, but why would she come to him when Lizzy was as good, if not better than him. He waited for Jane to enter.
She came in with a slight smile, "Hello William! I hope I'm not disturbing you?"
"Not at all," said William, with a smile. "Sit down, Jane. No formalities." She sat down opposite him. "How are you and Charles doing?"
"Oh, we're fine," said Jane. "Things are a little hectic, but that's all."
"Oh," said William. "I haven't seen you guys lately..."
"Yeah, I know," said Jane. "You should come over sometime."
"I'll try," said William. "Now that Georgie is better, it's easier for me to go out more often."
"Yeah," said Jane. "I heard she's going back to school soon."
"Yes, she is," said William, with an affectionate smile at the thought of her sister. "I didn't want her to do that, but she ganged up with Lizzy and made me agree." He paused, then said hesitantly, "Um...how is Lizzy doing?"
Jane looked at him, "She's okay, I guess...that's what I came here. It's about Lizzy."
William's attention was caught, "Lizzy?! Is she in any trouble?"
"Well, not exactly," said Jane. "Not a lawyer kind of trouble anyway."
"Jane, you're being mysterious," said William. "What's wrong?"
"Before I say anything, William," said Jane, grimly. "I have to tell you that Lizzy does not want me to tell you this. In fact, she forbade me to do so. I promised her I wouldn't. But I can't keep that promise any longer. I can't see her like that anymore..."
"Like what?!" William asked her.
"She has lost all her liveliness," said Jane. "She doesn't talk to anybody. She's miserable, Will, she really is. And that's why I have to break my promise to her. I'm risking my whole relationship with her for this...for you. But I ask myself, is it worth it? Do you really care?"
"Do I?!!!" William exclaimed. "Jane, I love your sister more than anything on this earth...I care for her deeply and would do anything she asked me to. Is that good enough?" He looked at Jane square in the eyes.
"No, I didn't mean it like that," said Jane, hurriedly. "I just want to be assured that if I tell you about Lizzy, you will try to help her...she really needs it right now."
"Do you even have to ask, Jane?" said William. "You know I'd help her anyway I could. But what is the problem?!!!"
Jane took in a deep breath, "Okay...I'll tell you, but you know that it shouldn't go any further than you."
William nodded.
Jane continued, "Lizzy is very sick, William...very sick and fragile. She has breast cancer."
William could do nothing but stare at her, shocked, dumfounded.
Chapter 35
William stared at Jane with an amazed look on his face. "I'm sorry...can you repeat that?"
Jane understood that William was shock, and in denial. "William, she has breast cancer."
It still didn't sink in. William got up and walked to the window, then turned around and said, "No, Jane...there must be some mistake. My Lizzy is never sick. She doesn't even get a common cold. It can't be true." He looked pleadingly at Jane, who just shook her head.
"I'm sorry, Will...but it's true. I was shocked myself. But I'm afraid there's little doubt."
William said nothing. He looked out his window, trying to deal with what he'd just heard. He said to Jane, "How bad is it?"
"I'm not sure," said Jane, helplessly. "She got some biopsies done. They think that the cancer might be malignant. But we still don't know how bad it is, yet. We're waiting for the results of some of the tests."
William sat down opposite her and held his head. "How long has she known?" he asked quietly.
"About 2 weeks, I think," said Jane, sympathetically. She knew it was hard on William as it was on her. Obviously, it would affect anyone who really cared about Lizzy.
"Is that why she doesn't want to be near me?" said William. "So that I wouldn't know? But why hide it from me? Why?"
"William, you know how she is," said Jane, with a sigh. "She doesn't want anyone to know. She doesn't want any sympathy. She has never wanted to be an object of anyone's pity. Right now, she has to come in terms with the disease herself without advertising it to the whole world."
William nodded, "I understand that, but she could have told me...I, I love her."
Jane sighed, "Now, that is too complicated for me to answer. It's between you guys. I don't know what to say...except talk to her. She needs a friend right now, more than anything."
William said thoughtfully, "What makes you think that she will let me be her friend? She's rejected me already..."
Jane looked at him imploringly. "At least, you could try. I'm not getting through to her. I think she just didn't want to tell you herself. You have to try and reach her. It's our only chance."
William nodded as he promised Jane to do everything in his power. Jane smiled. She knew she could count on William to help her. He would never let Lizzy down. She got up to leave. William escorted her out. He held her hand comfortingly, "I won't let anything happen to her, Jane. Trust me."
Jane smiled and said, "I know." And then, she left, confident of her sister's recovery and brighter things ahead. Meanwhile, William thought about the best way to handle the situation himself. He would have to talk with Lizzy and soon...it was just a matter of time. He knew that he would have to plan his approach in such a way that Lizzy didn't reject him again. He would have to win her somehow. That was the only way he could help. And he had to help...Jane was counting on him.
Meanwhile, at Pemberley
Georgiana was packing some of her notes and instruments for her class when Melissa came by her door. "Knock, knock," she said with a smile.
Georgie looked at her briefly, then ignored her. She didn't say a word.
Melissa crossed her arms and said, "What are you doing?"
"What does it look like I'm doing?" said Georgie.
Melissa held back a sharp reply and simply said, "I didn't know you were going back to school today..."
"Well, now you know," said Georgie, in a dismissive tone.
"Listen, Georgie," said Melissa, entering the room. "Can't you just bury the past and try to like me...? I care about you...and you hate me so much. Why?"
Georgie looked at Melissa straight in the eye. "Can you honestly ask me that? After all your lies and deception. After costing my brother his only true love. After your betrayal of my trust. How can you even come here and say that?" Georgie's eyes blazed with anger.
Melissa hung her head, "I'm sorry...you know I am. Haven't I suffered enough? Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?"
Georgie shook her head, "Listen, Melissa...it isn't as easy as all that..."
Melissa interrupted her with, "Please! Georgie! It hurts me so much to see what we've come to. We were such friends when we were growing up...playing with our dolls. You used to tell me everything and you trusted me. Can't you at least give me another chance? For old times' sake?"
Melissa's eyes had a pleading quality that would have melted anyone's heart. Georgie was no different. She sighed, "Maybe...but things won't just disappear. I might try and ignore them, but they'll still be here. The truth doesn't go away."
Melissa smiled, as she knew she had gotten through to her. "I know. And I'll try and win your trust again. And your friendship. They are both so precious to me. Thank you for giving me another chance!!!" And then Melissa hugged Georgie, who allowed her to do so. But she still had some doubts...in the back of her mind. All this was suspicious, but she ignored that thought.
Melissa gushed about her recovery and asked about her plans of going back to school.
Georgie said, "I'm going to my dorm today...just to meet some of my friends. But I'll be back later. William won't let me stay there yet. I might start my classes soon. Though it might be difficult because I have to go down to the police station. They want me to make a statement. I told them I didn't remember, but Sgt. Lewis told me to come back a little later."
Melissa nodded, commenting when necessary. She absorbed all the information with the complete absence of any remorse. She knew she was betraying Georgie again. But it was either that or her life. Wickham would kill her if she refused to cooperate. So, she did. Even if it meant Georgie's life.
"...anyway," Georgie was saying. "I'll be going now. If William calls, tell him that I might be a little late and not to worry. My roommate, Kristen is throwing kind of a welcome-back party. But I'll call to let him know I'm alright. Bye!" Georgie left Melissa with hopes that she'd reformed. At least, it seemed like it.
But, as soon as Georgie left, Melissa hurried out to the nearest payphone and dialed a number to New Jersey.
"Hello?" said a gruff voice.
Melissa said, "We're on tonight." And then, she hung up.
Lizzy's apartment; 5:30 p.m.
Lizzy was busy making dinner. But her mind was miles away. The bad news she had got today had numbed her. She was reacting with complete shock and denial. She refused to accept it. And she refused to tell it to anyone. She knew she would have to call Jane and let her know, but she couldn't bring herself to do it.
She watched Rachel playing with her dolls on the carpet and felt her heart melt. What if she didn't make it? Who would take care of little Rachel? Jane? But sooner or later Jane would have her own child. Was it fair to leave Rachel to Jane? But if not Jane, then who? She couldn't trust anyone else with her baby... Stop it, Lizzy! An inner voice admonished her. You aren't dead yet. And you won't be, if you can help it. You have to live for Rachel. You have to live for John. You have to live for yourself. You can't give up...yet.
But that was easier said than done.
Lizzy brushed away a stray tear and tried to concentrate on the immediate future. She would have to let everybody know in due course. Even if she didn't say anything, her balding hair from chemotherapy might give her away. Or perhaps, she could wear a wig. Lizzy sighed. This was all so difficult, so new. She wasn't used to being sick. She never had any fever or allergies or anything. Nothing mild, let alone this severe, had ever happened to her. Even as a child, she had been abnormally healthy. And now, she had to face this disease...by herself.
At that moment, Lizzy wished that John were there with her. He always knew what to say and do to cheer her up. And then, there was always, William...Lizzy sighed. If only she could tell him. If only she could let herself go. If only she wasn't so afraid. If only she wasn't so proud. Lizzy wished that William were there right at that moment...to comfort her and hold her and tell her it'd be alright. But she told herself to quit dreaming and face reality. She had rejected him and he wouldn't be coming...ever.
Just as those morose thoughts were going through her mind, the front doorbell rang. Lizzy headed for the door, wondering who it could be. She opened the door and almost gasped in surprise. The very object of her ruminations was before her!
"Hi," said William, gravely, trying to produce a smile.
"Hi," returned Lizzy, still blocking the door.
"Can I come in?" said William, after few moments of silence. Seeing Lizzy hesitate, he added, "Please?"
Lizzy thought for a moment, remembering what had happened the last time he was here, but relented. "Okay..." She stepped away from the door and let him in. He walked in without a word thinking about how to approach the situation, but with no avail. He could think of no sensitive way to broach the issue.
Lizzy followed him quietly trying to fathom the purpose of his visit, but with little success. He couldn't be there to renew his affections. That was out of the question. if anything, William was a man of dignity. He would never do anything like that. Then why was he here?
William turned around, and looked Lizzy straight in the eye. "How have you been?"
"Pretty good," she lied. "And you?"
"Fine, thanks," said William. "How's the new job?"
"Interesting," she said, shortly.
"Good," he returned.
And then they relapsed into silence. William cleared his throat. And after a while, Lizzy said, "So...?"
"So..." repeated William.
"You are here because...?" she persisted.
"Um...I thought you might ask that," said William, with a brief smile. "I just wanted to see you."
"William, please," said Lizzy, a little distressed. "Please don't do that." She turned away from him.
"Do what?" asked William, innocently.
"Look at me like that," said Lizzy. "You are breaking my resolve. You don't know how hard it is to look you in the eye and remain indifferent. You have no idea..."
"Then, stop fighting yourself," said William, turning her around to face him. "and me. Don't you see we are meant to be?"
"NO...William...you don't understand...it's not..." Lizzy couldn't continue.
William looked into her eyes, searchingly, and said, "Lizzy...I know...I understand."
"You know?" said Lizzy, slowly. "Know what?" She didn't quite like the look in his eyes.
"I know that you are sick," said William, with great difficulty. "And that you have cancer..."
Lizzy was shocked. "How do you -- ??!! Oh my g-d! I can't believe Jane told you!! Oh!" She walked away from him, exclaiming, "I can't believe this!" She was distraught.
William followed her, and tried to calm her down, "Lizzy...please...calm down. It's not Jane's fault. She was worried about you. She wants to help, but you won't allow that." He got hold of her arm and forced her to look at him. "Why didn't you tell me?"
Lizzy hung her head. "I...I didn't want you to feel sorry for me. I don't want your sympathy or your pity..." just your love, she added mentally.
"Lizzy, I love you," said William, simply. "That can never change, no matter what happens. Why can't you trust me once? Have a little faith on my love..."
"Faith? It's the only thing I have left," she said, cynically. "I didn't want you to feel like you need to do anything for me, just because I'm sick...that was all. But I suppose it doesn't matter anymore." Lizzy freed herself from him and sat down on the couch, burying her head in hands.
William sat down next to her, putting a comforting arm around her, "Lizzy...are you mad at me?"
After a brief silence, she said, "No, I'm not mad at you...just at myself. For being so stupid and miserable...it's not like me...but then again, I've never been this sick..."
William understood her emotions and just held on to her, comforting her, trying to make the pain go away. "It'll be alright, Lizzy. I promise. It'll all be fine. You'll be okay."
Lizzy lifted her face and looked at him. "No, it won't be okay," she said vehemently. "My cancer is invasive...it has metastasized."
And then, she burst into tears.
Chapter 36
William watched Lizzy break into tears and felt like his whole world was falling apart. He was no doctor and wasn't sure what this meant. But from the looks of it, it couldn't be much good. He put a comforting arm around Lizzy trying to lessen her sorrow. "I don't know what to say...," he murmured. "Surely, it can't be as bad as all that...?"
Lizzy raised her eyes to look at him and gave a wane smile, "Very optimistic as always, I see." She dried her tears and tried to prevent herself from breaking down again.
"But you were optimistic too, Lizzy," said William, earnestly. "Whatever happened to that?"
"I grew up," said Lizzy, now ashamed that she'd broken down like that. "And learnt what life was all about."
William flinched at hearing such cynical words from his beloved. "Lizzy...can you tell me more about your results. What does it mean? How bad is it?"
Lizzy disengaged herself from him, got up to stand at the window and sighed, "You want to know? Well...I guess there's no harm in telling you. You know most of the story already."
She turned to face him, with her back resting on the windowsill. "I have a Stage IV Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. My tumor is about 10 cm in diameter. It has metastasized to my lymph nodes and is now in my bloodstream. Dr. Peterson says there is still hope that with surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, I might be treated. But in my opinion, that's just his way of saying to me that I don't have much longer to live, but he'll try and keep me alive..."
"Stop, please," pleaded William as he came by her side. "I don't want to hear anymore. I won't believe that it's all that bad. It can't be..."
Lizzy sighed, and give him a little smile, "Well, it is the truth. I'm trying to come in terms with it. But as you can see, it's hard."
William wasn't ready to give up yet, "But you said that Dr. Peterson thinks that there's still hope. Why don't you believe it? I know of many people who had cancer and continued to live long, productive lives. Why can't that happen for you?"
Lizzy shook her head, "I can feel it. I know it. I can't explain...it's this gut feeling I have that I won't be around much longer."
"Lizzy! Don't be so paranoid!" William exclaimed. "You have to have the will to live. That's the only way to survive. If you give up, even the best medical care won't help you. Please...you have to do that...for yourself and for Rachel...and for me." He held her hands in his own and looked pleadingly into her eyes.
Lizzy said softly, "Why are you so good to me? After all that I've done...after what I said that day? After everything? Why do you still love me? I can't understand it..."
William smiled, "I guess I'm just more stubborn than the average guy!" He was gratified to see Lizzy smile at that. "Listen, Lizzy...you do know that you're not alone. We're in this together."
"No, Will," Lizzy took removed her hands from his, feeling his closeness and being threatened by it. "I don't want to be a burden on you or Jane or anyone. That's the main reason I didn't want you to know. It's not right. I don't want your money or your charity. If I win this battle, I want to win it without having caused anymore trouble than I already am."
"So you think that the only reason I'm offering my help is because I feel sorry for you?" William sounded very hurt. He distanced himself from her. "Is that what you think of me? After all these years? I thought you knew me better." He turned away from her.
Lizzy saw that she'd really hurt him, and she hurried to say. "No, that's not what I'm saying...it's just that...well I don't want people to think that I conned you into helping me when I needed money. I would despise myself if I became a mere mercenary."
"But you're not a mercenary!" exclaimed William vehemently, turning around. "God! How stubborn can a person be?! I know you love me; I can see it in your eyes. I think we've both tortured ourselves long enough. Haven't I been punished enough?" His voice was filled with emotion as he said, "I know that I've been wrong in the past, and I have suffered because of that. These past 5 years have been like living hell for me. And I know that I deserved it. But then, I saw you at Yale, and it gave me hope. I felt like I'd been given a second chance to win you. But it seems that fate had other things in mind...and Wickham came between us once again. And now...now I fear that I might lose you forever. Whatever I did back in college, it wasn't so bad that I be punished so much. I don't want to spend the rest of my miserable life regretting you. I want to be by your side, always. I want to share this grief with you. I want to help you make it through these difficult times. And I know that you want it, too. You can't deny that. Can you?"
Lizzy couldn't say anything. She just shook her head in response.
"So, what's the problem?" he said. "I don't want to waste anymore time. We've been apart far too long anyway. I don't care how sudden or impulsive this seems. But..." He got down on his knees. "Lizzy, will you marry me?"
But Lizzy said nothing. She was torn. Torn between her heart and her head. Torn between duty and desire. She didn't know what to do. This was her last chance with William. If scorned, he would never come back to her again. And if accepted, he'd probably make her the happiest woman on earth. Either way, it was her call. She'd have to decide ultimately, what was more important to her - her love or her will.
After a few moments silence, Lizzy said, "William...um...this is a little sudden. I can't say yes..." Seeing a look of dejection pass through his eyes, she quickly added. "But I'm not saying no either. Can you give me a little time to think this through?"
William looked elated, "Of course! I don't expect you to decide right this moment. I just want you to give me a chance. And regardless of what you decide, I'll be there for you. You know that. And till you do, I'll be waiting...with my fingers crossed."
He smiled his most charming, disarming smile and saw that he'd already bent her in his favor. Her eyes softened and a smile played on her lips. William's hopes soared at that sight because he knew he was wearing her resolve down. If the situation had been more favorable, William would have celebrated, but he knew it was not. Although he appeared very confident, William had a fear, deep down in his heart, that even if he did win his Lizzy at long last, she would be taken away from him soon, by forces beyond his control.
But that was a fear he'd just have to learn to live with.
Meanwhile, at Ramsgate Dorms
A fairly well-dressed man in a black Ford Taurus parked a few yards away from the Dorm entrance, keeping an eye on the new arrivals and departures. His informant had already notified him of the whereabouts of Georgiana Darcy. So he knew that at that moment, she was at a party in the second floor dorm room. He also knew where she was headed next and what she was planning to do. All this was very welcome intelligence since it facilitated his plans for Georgiana.
He had observed that the streets were not particularly occupied at that time of the evening and that Georgiana had parked in the rather isolated parking lot. It was about 2 minutes walk from the dorm...2 minutes of solitary walk. Georgiana would be an open target in those 2 minutes, and he intended to make full use of that fact. It was a golden opportunity to silence her once and for all before a return of her memory. She had not given any statement to the police and that was just as well. Nobody needed to know anything about that fateful night.
Even as these thoughts were going through his mind, Georgiana appeared at the stairs with a bouquet of flowers and some small gifts. She was alone, just as predicted, and walked towards the parking lot. To do so, she would have to cross the section of pavement where the Taurus was stationed. And this was by no accident. It was a product of careful planning.
As she crossed next to the car, the occupant got out rapidly and attacked her. She was taken by surprise. Her eyes opened wide as she tried to scream, but his powerful hand covered her mouth, smothering any such attempt. They struggled wildly, but he was decidedly more powerful of the two. He overpowered her and was about to drag her to his car, when by pure fate, 3 figures approached them from the dorm room. When they saw what was happening, they started running towards them, exclaiming loudly. One of them was Georgiana's good friend, Chris.
"Hey you! What the **** do you think you're doing?!" he shouted, rushing to the scene. "Leave her alone!!!"
Seeing that he was caught and outnumbered, the assailant flung Georgiana to the ground, jumped into his car, and sped away before anyone could get to him. He had been foiled...temporarily, at least. Chris rushed to Georgiana's side, helping her on her feet. "Are you okay, Georgie?"
She was, except for a few bruises and a scraped knee. But she held her head, and murmured, "Oh g-d! I remember! It was him! It was Wickham!"
Chapter 37
As William drove home, a tiny smile played on his lips as he thought back to the events of the evening. At long last, he finally had some hope of getting Lizzy. She hadn't refused him outright, and that was definitely a positive sign. They'd come a long way, really they had...from hating each other to falling in love to losing each other. But maybe this tragedy would have a happier ending. There was time yet. William privately resolved that no matter what Lizzy's final decision, he would be there for her during this tough time and support her as she went through this painful experience. He knew that she would need help with Rachel, and truth be told, he was kind of selfish too since he figured that Rachel would be a means of getting closer to Lizzy.
On the whole, William was in a fairly decent mood when he arrived at Pemberley. He wanted to see his sister right away, so he could tell her of the latest developments. But William noticed that there was a police car in front of the house. He couldn't remember Sgt. Lewis ever calling to schedule a visit to see Georgie again, so he couldn't imagine what he'd be doing there. Without further thought, he parked his car and dashed into the house.
Almost as soon as he entered the house, Georgie rushed to meet, flying into his embrace crying, "Oh Will! You're finally home!"
"What happened?!" demanded William with concern. He saw Georgie's friend, Chris, Sgt. Lewis and some other police officers standing in the background. "Georgie, what's this all about?"
"Georgie was attacked again tonight, Mr. Darcy," Chris came forward. "I got there just in time. Unfortunately, the assailant got away before I could do anything. But at least Georgie is safe."
Georgie was almost sobbing in William's arms. She stopped and looked up, "Will! It - it was HIM! It was George Wickham! I remember!!!"
William was shocked, speechless. After a brief silence, he said deliberately, "Georgie...are you sure?"
"YES!" said Georgie emphatically.
"Did you see him?" said William.
"No, he was wearing a mask," said Georgie. "But I know it was him, I do. And it's the same guy who, who-attacked me before."
At this point, Sgt. Lewis stepped forward, "Ms. Darcy claims that her assailant tonight was the same as before. If so, he probably came to finish off what he'd left undone. Now that her memory is back, I would like to take a statement from her, regarding her attack...if that is alright with you."
"Of course," said William, thinking quickly. "But perhaps I can have a few words with her alone, as her lawyer and brother. Just give us 5 minutes."
Sgt. Lewis nodded, as William led Georgie into the adjoining room, the library. He told Georgie to sit down. He put aside all his feelings as a brother and tried to put up his professional front. Right now, he'd have to be her lawyer, more so than her brother...just so that he could get all the facts straight.
"Georgie, I'll have to ask you again. Are you absolutely certain that it was Wickham?" The name was said with extreme hatred.
"Positive." Georgie nodded vigorously. "I know it was him, even though I can't prove a thing. I know it. Why won't you believe me?"
"I believe you, Georgie," said William hurriedly. "I just wanted you to be sure. Okay...now can you tell me what happened...the first time...that night of your concert?" Oh Wickham, you're in so deep with this, that you'll be drowning before you know what happened. And there'll be NO helping hand...I'll personally see to that!!
"Well..." said Georgie. "It's still a little hazy, but I remember that I was among the last people to leave that night and I was walking towards my car in the parking lot. It was empty, except for one car. I didn't really pay any attention to it. I was too busy being pleased with myself and the concert. Then, suddenly, this girl came up to me from the car asking for directions. I still didn't suspect anything because she seemed very sweet and respectable. I was talking to her when suddenly, this guy attacked me. He must have crept on behind me. I shrieked, but there was nobody else. We struggled, and then that girl started screaming and told him to stop. She tried to help me. Somehow, I managed to free myself and took out my gun and told him to take off his mask. But he lunged forward and grabbed my gun, firing it in the process. And then, I remember falling down, and that's it...that's all I can recall."
William nodded, "So, you think that your assailant that night was Wickham too?"
Georgie nodded, "I'm sure of it. I didn't connect this before, but that girl called him 'George' and that can't be a coincidence. I didn't recognize him right away because of his mask, but I knew he was familiar. But...who was she? What happened to her?"
It occurred to William that Georgie was blissfully unaware of all that had happened that night. She obviously didn't know that she had killed someone. "Um...that girl was someone I knew...you don't know her, but...well...it was Lydia Bennet, Lizzy's sister." He watched Georgie's expression of surprise, but continued, "I'm afraid she died almost immediately."
Georgie was shocked. "You mean...she died...that I killed her...? Oh my g-d! I killed her, and she tried to save me, too. Oh lord! I can't believe it!"
William put a comforting arm around her, saying, "I know it's horrible Georgie, but remember you didn't mean to do that. It was purely accidental."
"I know! But that doesn't change the fact that I killed her!" exclaimed Georgie. She was silent for a moment, then, "Why didn't you tell me before?"
"The doctor told me not to," explained William. "He said your memory would return by itself. And it seems that by the repeat of that attack, your memory came back."
But Georgie wasn't even listening. "And she was Lizzy's sister, too. Oh! What have I done! She must have been so upset with me..."
"No, Georgie, Lizzy doesn't blame you," said William. "She knows it was an accident."
But this was of little comfort to Georgie, who would have to live with that guilty conscience for the rest of her life, with the knowledge that she had taken someone else's life. It was a painful thought and one that Georgie would have to get used to...in time.
A thought struck her, "Will I be convicted? After all, it was murder..."
"Not if I can help it," said William. "Georgie, a violent crime was being committed against you and you were acting purely in self-defense. You had a license for that gun and you used it after considerable effort to avoid it. You didn't mean to kill anyone. The real villain is Wickham, not you. There isn't a jury in the world that will convict you, if it comes to that. You are a victim. Now all we have to do is find that scum Wickham...I swear that if he ever shows his face to me, I will see to it that he regrets it!"
Georgie shuddered at the thought and said, "Will...I don't want you to do anything of the kind. I will not lose you to Wickham! That way, he wins. And I won't accept that! Can you please leave it to the police?"
William said nothing, though he knew that Georgie was right. Wickham wasn't worth the trouble, anyway. But William was not about to let him get away with it...not this time. He said, "So, are you ready to go and talk with Sgt. Lewis?"
Georgie nodded, and William left the room to fetch the sergeant.
The next day; at Denny's Restaurant
Lizzy knew she was a little late for her lunch date, so she hurried into the restaurant, scanning the crowd. She spotted Jane sitting in the far corner and made her way to the table. She sat down opposite Jane and said, "Sorry I'm late."
"It's okay," smiled Jane. "I haven't been waiting long. So...how have you been?"
"Fine," said Lizzy. A waiter came around and they placed their orders. "Jane, I have to talk to you..."
"Yes?" said Jane. She knew what was coming. She imagined that William had approached her, and she was ready to face the music now. After all, she'd broken her promise.
"Why did you tell him?" said Lizzy, straightforwardly.
"Because I was worried about you," said Jane. "You were miserable and you withdrew from me. I didn't know what to do. You wouldn't even talk to me. So, I thought that William might help."
"But it just complicated things more!" exclaimed Lizzy. "He asked me to marry him!"
"He did?!" Jane exclaimed. "Really? Oh! How wonderful!! Tell me you said 'yes'...!!!"
"NO!" said Lizzy. "But I didn't say 'no' either. I'm confused. I don't know what to do."
"But Lizzy, you love him!" said Jane. "That's all matters in the end."
"But it's not fair," said Lizzy. "Who knows how long I'll be around...what's the point...and I'll probably be at the hospital most of the time anyway."
"I think that William was aware of all that when he proposed," said Jane. "And he wouldn't have done that if it mattered to him. Don't you see? He wants to spend time with you, doesn't matter how long. You both deserve your last shot at happiness. Then why deprive yourselves of that? And there's nothing else standing in your way."
"But Jane," said Lizzy. "I feel like I'm betraying John..."
"I knew John as well as you did," said Jane. "And I know he wouldn't have wanted you to mourn for him. He was so full of life, always. He would have wanted you to live your life without regretting him. And he loved Will like a brother, in spite of the little rift. I can't imagine him objecting to this."
"Maybe..." said Lizzy. "Maybe you're right. But I still need more time."
"Take as much time as you want, honey," said Jane. "Just do what your heart tells you."
Lizzy smiled, feeling all her former anger at Jane, melt. She couldn't stay mad at her sister long. She had only been trying to help. Lizzy wasn't any less confused now than she had been before. It wasn't fair. Whenever it came to William, there were no easy decisions. It had been thus 5 years ago, and it was still like that. It was all so jinxed. Lizzy sighed...it was giving her a headache. Shortly thereafter, the food came, and they both ate ravenously.
That evening, at Ramsgate Hospital
Lizzy waited outside Dr. Peterson's office, patiently reading a magazine dated November, 1989. It always amazed her how old the magazines in hospitals were, but this was ridiculous. Still, she needed some way to pass time and this was by far the best. Lizzy wished she had let Jane come, but she hadn't. She had told her that there was no need for that. Jane had conceded after a long struggle, but she wasn't happy about it. But Lizzy had wanted to face the bad news herself. She didn't want her sister in more pain than she already was.
Then, all of a sudden, s figure approached her. It was William.
Lizzy was pleasantly surprised. "William! What are you doing here?"
"Same thing as you, I imagine," said William, seating himself next to her. "waiting for Dr. Peterson..."
"But, you are not a patient..." said Lizzy doubtingly. Then it hit her. "Oh, you're here for ME?!"
William nodded, resisting the temptation to say 'Duh!'. "Yes, I am. You didn't forget, did you? I said that I wouldn't let you go through this alone...so here I am."
Lizzy smiled, flattered. William said, "Do you have an answer for me yet?"
"No, not yet..." said Lizzy. William didn't reply. Instead, he said, "I would have been here earlier, except that there was some things I had to take care of...the most amazing thing happened yesterday..." And then, he told her.
Lizzy was dumfounded. "Oh my g-d! It was really Wickham, all along!"
"I never doubted it," said William. "But now we know for sure."
"How's Georgie?"
"Okay. But she's upset about Lydia."
"Oh, she shouldn't be," said Lizzy. "It was an accident."
"Try explaining that to her," said William, dryly.
Lizzy said, "So, what happens now? What about Wickham? Is he just going to get away again?"
"No way! Sgt. Lewis has put out an arrest warrant for him. You see, it seems like our friend has been busy these past few years. Computer records show that he's wanted by 5 different states for an impressive list of crimes, including fraud and assault. They have been looking for him for a long time, but now that they know he's in this are, it might be easier to find him."
Lizzy nodded, satisfied. Justice had to be served. Men like Wickham did not deserve to roam around free on earth. They made it unsafe and polluted for rest of the world. Lizzy was about to comment on that when the door opened and Dr. Peterson asked her to come in.
They went in and seated themselves. Dr. Peterson asked after her, as usual and got the usual response. Then he said to William, "And you are...?"
"A friend," said William. "William Darcy."
Dr. Peterson nodded, "Um...I have something to tell you...it might be upsetting, though in a different sense..."
Lizzy and William exchanged glances, not knowing what to make of such a speech.
Dr. Peterson continued, "I'm very, very sorry about this...more than you can imagine. But you must know that it wasn't at all intentional. Purely accidental..."
"Will you get to the point," said William, irritably.
Dr. Peterson glared at him, then said, "I'm afraid, Mrs. Michaels, we've made a terrible, terrible mistake - "
Chapter 38
"We've made a terrible, terrible mistake...," said Dr. Peterson, deliberately.
"What is it??!!" William almost shouted.
Dr. Peterson shifted uncomfortably in his chair, "Um...Mrs. Michaels...the hospital made an error...your report got switched with another. You, in fact, have a Stage II carcinoma which has not metastasized as yet. I'm sorry for the anxiety this caused and - "
"You're sorry??" exploded William. "Hold on a minute here. How in the world did this happen?"
"Well...the report got mixed up with another lady's, whose name by coincidence is Elena Michaels...so that's how the lab tech got confused and mixed them up. Only today did we figure out that a mistake had been made. And I'm so sorry."
"Sorry doesn't cut it!" exclaimed William, who was furious. He glanced at Lizzy, who was frozen, staring into space, obviously shocked. "Do you know how much pain and misery this caused for more than one person?? We were all led to believe that she was dying...and it turns out that the problem is just that your tech can't read? This is outrageous! How could such a mistake happen? You - you can be sued for this!! The whole bunch of you!"
Dr. Peterson mumbled another apology, aware that it wasn't being well taken. He had expected it, of course. He also knew that Lizzy was a lawyer, which made matters worse for him.
Then, for the first time, Lizzy spoke, as she lay a hand on William's lap. Her voice was very soft, distant, calm. "Dr. Peterson...how can I be sure you're not making a mistake again?" There was a quiet helpless appeal in her eyes as she said this making the doctor feel worse than he already was.
"I assure you," he said. "I got it checked many times after I found out about the mistake. There is no doubt about it."
"Why is it so much easier to believe the bad stuff?" said Lizzy, almost to herself. She looked at William. "I can't bring myself to believe it...that would make it easier to cope with another bad news..."
William's heart went out to her as she said those words. He realized the damage that had been done and was very angry. In fact, he couldn't understand how Lizzy was so calm. He was boiling. "Do you see what you've done, dr.?? You made her so miserable and dejected, she can't even believe that it's going to be alright.... It was a costly, costly mistake. And you'll have to pay for it!!" He glared at Dr. Peterson.
Lizzy said soothingly, "William, please...let me handle this." She addressed Dr. Peterson, "I know that this was all a mistake and you didn't mean for it to happen. I understand. Don't worry...I won't sue you for it. I just wish it hadn't happened. You don't know how it feels to be told that your life is coming to an end. I just wish you people had been more careful..." She got up. "But I feel sorry for Elena...her news will be much worse than mine. I don't know how you're going to tell her...it can't be easy. Yes I feel sorry for her...and you." With that, Lizzy looked at him for a last time and then, fled the room, leaving Dr. Peterson and William behind.
William looked at Dr. Peterson, "Most people wouldn't be as forgiving as that. You should thank your lucky stars, doc." He got up. Before he left, he said, "Try and be more careful next time...you have people's lives in your hands. Don't break their trust." And then he followed Lizzy to try and catch up with her.
William couldn't find Lizzy anywhere in the hallway, so he went outside. Sure enough, there she was, standing in the parking lot, next to her car. It appeared that she was crying. William made his way over and tapped her on the shoulders. "Lizzy?"
Lizzy turned to face him. She looked at him with teary eyes, then started crying again. William held out his arms and Lizzy moved unhesitatingly into his embrace. They didn't say a word...no sound, no nothing. Lizzy just held on to William, grateful for his support, saying so much more than could be said with words. William held her tight, not wanting to let go, hoping this was a positive sign, and not a goodbye memento. But even if it was, he didn't care. He wouldn't exchange the present moment for anything in the world, no matter how much grief it caused him in the future.
For her part, Lizzy was quite content in never leaving the safety and security of William's embrace. In light of the latest developments, Lizzy could not stop her tears from flowing, more from relief and pent-up misery than anything else. She felt so sheltered in his arms; it just felt like the most natural thing in the world. He was so protective and sensitive of her feelings that it amazed her how she ever resisted him...for so long. She had done it successfully in the past, but she wasn't certain that she'd be able to do it again.
At length, Lizzy separated herself, breaking contact, and drying her tears. "I'm sorry...I didn't mean to impose...I was just so overwhelmed...I still can't believe it's true."
"But it is," said William. "Things will be alright..."
"Not for Elena," said Lizzy, thinking of the unfortunate lady who'd soon be receiving news of the hospital's mistake. "This will have to sink in...I'm not sure I fully appreciate it yet."
William said, "Listen, Lizzy...why don't you come to Pemberley for dinner. I don't want to leave you alone tonight..." Aware of what he'd just said, he was quick to add. "I mean, I'll keep you company... Georgiana and me. And plus Georgie wanted to talk with you. Say yes, please?"
Lizzy smiled, "I'd love to, but...Rachel is still in the day care center...I have to pick her up..."
"Oh, we can pick her up on the way," said William, persuasively. "It'll be fun...please?"
"Oh, okay," said Lizzy, finally. "At least I won't have to cook!"
William just smiled, and they decided that Lizzy would lead the way, and William would follow in his car. In a few minutes, Lizzy stopped at the day care center where she picked up Rachel. After securing her in the child safety seat, Lizzy drove straight to Pemberley, talking to her daughter about her day on the way. They reached Pemberley in 15 minutes, and Lizzy, Rachel and William alighted from the car. William came over.
"Wiaum?!" Came the joyous exclamation from Rachel.
"Yes, Rachel," smiled William, as he picked her up and carried her inside, all the time making effective baby talk. Lizzy followed closely with a huge grin on her face. They went into the living room, where Georgie was reading some of her music books. Without looking up she said,
"You're late, William...I --- " At that point, she looked up and exclaimed, "Lizzy! Rachel! What are you guys doing here?!!"
She got up and hugged Lizzy and kissed Rachel on the cheeks.
"Just thought, I'd drop by," said Lizzy, saying nothing of her visit to the hospital. She figured Georgie would find out about her cancer with the rest of her family and friends. "And I'm afraid, I'm responsible for William's delay...he met me on the way and got detained."
"Oh, that's okay!" said Georgie, glancing quickly at William, who seemed to be busy with Rachel. "Are you staying for dinner?"
"Yeah," said Lizzy. "Is that a problem?"
"Oh! No way!" cried Georgie. "I'll just ring for the butler to set two more plates."
"Gee!" said Lizzy. "I think you are the only person I know who has a butler. Feels so...royal, doesn't it?"
"Yup," smiled Georgie. "Life's few luxuries!"
Since Rachel was hungry and tired, they decided to have dinner right away. They went to the spacious dining hall, where 4 places had been set, as requested. Lizzy was always delighted when she came to that room as it had an old English feel to it, with the huge dining table, paintings, and the decor. There was a baby seat and special food for Rachel, and Lizzy fed her. Conversation was mainly between Lizzy and Georgie.
Lizzy said, "So...I don't see Melissa around anywhere..."
"She's visiting some friends in New Jersey," Georgie informed her. And I hope she doesn't come back!
"I heard about the incident the other day," said Lizzy. "And I'm just so glad you're alright, and that Wickham is finally going to get what he deserves!"
"If they ever catch him," said Georgie. She paused a little, then said, "You know...I just found out about...Lydia...I'm so sorry..."
"You don't have to apologize," said Lizzy, quickly. "It was an accident and I don't hold you responsible in any way. Lydia was to blame in some way, because she was in the conspiracy with Wickham. I'm not sure why, though. Guess, there's no way to find out. But I don't want you to feel guilty in any way."
"Thanks Lizzy," smiled Georgie. "You're the best!"
William didn't say much. He was too engrossed observing Lizzy, the expressions on her face, and the highlights of her hair. It was amazing how he loved everything about her; every line on her face, every mannerism, every movement, every aspect of her existence. That's why he knew it was true love. It had withstood the test of time and was still there in his heart stronger than ever. He didn't love Lizzy for any physical attribute...it was because she was Lizzy...her person, her voice, her smile, her laugh, her intelligent eyes, her mind, her love of life...he just loved her all the way. He couldn't remember when he didn't love her; that memory was just very distant and one that he preferred to forget.
William was broken out of his reverie by Georgie's voice. "Will...let's go to the gallery. Lizzy wants to see the pictures again." The gallery was an old, traditional part of Pemberley, where portraits of the inhabitants were hung. These portraits reflected the different stages of life, from childhood to adulthood. It was truly fascinating, especially for someone studying the Darcy family history. It was probably one of William's favorite rooms. He was, therefore, very flattered to know that Lizzy shared his affection for the room and was glad to oblige the company.
He led them to the gallery. Lizzy exclaimed, "I always loved this room the most. It's so charming...and just a peek into history." For sure enough, the portraits ranged from the 1700s to the present. Lizzy walked around to the different pictures, when one in particular caught her eye. It was the portrait of a smiling man in a Regency style outfit, sitting next to a strikingly beautiful woman with dark, curly hair. She held a little baby in her arms and the man was smiling at her and the baby. One could almost feel the love between them. It was a very happy picture indeed.
"Who are they?" asked Lizzy curiously. "That man looks so much like you..."
"That's one of my great ancestors, Fitzwilliam Darcy, from Derbyshire, England. He was the first Darcy to ever marry beneath his 'class' so to speak. The lady in the picture was from the middle class and not considered by many as his equal. But he loved so violently and passionately that he married her regardless of all the opposition. They had their share of trials, but they were very much in love. It is said that after the wedding they never spent a day apart. And after the death of his wife 56 years later, he was a broken man. It is rumored that he sent a single red rose to her grave every day for the rest of his life. He never was the same. She was a part of him and he couldn't live without her. He died a few years later. He was delirious on his deathbed and it is said that his last words were... 'I love you, Elizabeth'..."
"Oh! Awwww..." said Lizzy. "That's so romantic...oh! I love it! That's is the most wonderful story I've ever heard!" It didn't escape her notice that strangely enough the two people had her and William's name, but she just shrugged it off as a coincidence. "It's so sweet. He really loved her..."
"She completed him," said William, with more meaning than he'd meant.
"It's so admirable that they were married so long and loved each other so well. That's a feat in itself. Where does one find such love anymore?"
William said, "One only has to look hard enough..."
He looked meaningfully at Lizzy who shared a glance with him. Suddenly the room felt couple of degrees warmer. Georgie said, "Um...I think I'll take Rachel to have a look around. I'll take her to the old toy room. She'll enjoy that. Won't you Rachel?" Georgie hurried out of the gallery with Rachel, but the others hardly noticed their exit.
William said, "True love is so hard to find...which is why one should hold on to it."
"Yes, but sometimes love isn't the only factor involved," said Lizzy.
"What is more important than love?" challenged William.
"Reality and practicality," returned Lizzy.
"True love conquers all," said William.
"Only in fairy tales."
"One can always try," said William.
"Yes, but failure brings heartache," said Lizzy.
"And victory brings eternal joy," William smiled.
Lizzy smiled in return. "So...the prize of victory is worth the risk of failure?"
"Of course!" William said. "Life is nothing but a gamble. And what's more precious than one's heart."
"True," said Lizzy. "But caution avoids pain."
"And caution avoids pleasure," challenged William.
"Is that transient pleasure worth all that pain?"
"Umhmm," nodded William. "Throw caution to the winds!" He decided to end the word play with, "Lizzy...what do you say now?" He reached out and held her hands. "Is there any hope that you will ever be mine? Will you marry me?"
Lizzy had made up her mind. "Yes, I will."
As simple as that.