Beginning, Previous Section, Section VII
Chapter 39
William couldn't believe his ears, "Wha-what did you say?" He looked at her doubtingly, hoping that he had heard her right.
"I said," Lizzy smiled. "that I will marry you..."
"Lizzy...please don't play with me," William pleaded, still not believing her. "This is not a joke, is it?" The last thing William wanted was to get his hopes too high only to be dashed to pieces.
Lizzy tiptoed forward, put her arms around him, and kissed him on his cheeks. "What do you think?"
William looked deep into her eyes and saw such unrestrained love that he could doubt no longer. "Oh Lizzy!" He held her tight for a few seconds refusing to let go. He whispered, "I love you so much..."
"I love you, too," Lizzy whispered back. "More than anything in the world...you have no idea how much."
At length they broke the embrace and looked at each other. Lizzy brushed an errant curl from William's face, and he smiled. He held her hands between his and kissed her fingers tenderly. Slowly, moving up her arms, leaving a trail of kisses, he reached her face. He kissed her cheeks, her forehead, her nose, before finally finding her lips. All the years of longing and passion were released in that one kiss. It was unrestrained, pure, unabashed. It was a symbol of their love and their want. They had been apart so long that this was but little reward for so many years of separation.
Finally, William broke the kiss, and said hoarsely, "We have to stop...I can't take this much longer."
Lizzy nodded understandingly. "Yeah, me too."
William smiled, "You have made me the happiest man on earth. You know that, right?"
Lizzy just smiled in return. "I think we deserve it...after years of doing what was 'right' I think I earned the privilege of following my heart, this once."
"You certainly did," said William, half seriously. "Though I won't say that what we did was necessarily right...Staying apart from the one you love most isn't the most normal course of action, is it?" William looked at Lizzy enquiringly.
Lizzy responded, "You know my reasons as well as I do. I know you understand and respect them. Though it has been very hard these past few years, in my heart, I'll always know that I did the right thing. I will never be guilty. I can't say I regret it, and if that situation arose again, I might end up making the same choices." Seeing William look a little hurt, she added, "But that doesn't mean I enjoyed any of it..."
"No," William agreed. "I certainly didn't enjoy any of it either. But you had John and Rachel...it couldn't have been half as bad as me..."
Lizzy looked searchingly at William, "You don't blame John, do you?"
"No," William shook his head. "I loved John like a brother. I don't blame him. He did what any man would have done. And he deserved you far more than I did. But I admit, it took me a good 2 years to finally accept that. They were probably the worst 2 years of my life..."
Lizzy couldn't bear to see the pain in his eyes. "I'm so sorry. I caused you so much pain...it's a wonder that you can still love me so."
William smiled, "There was pain because I loved you. But that's all in the past. I don't want to think of that anymore...ever. I have you now, and that's all that really matters in the end." He brought Lizzy close and wrapped his hands around her waist, his eyes twinkling. "Here and now...that's what's important. As long as I never lose you again, I can look back on those 5 years without too much pain or regret. Those lonesome years will always be there to remind me of my follies and mistakes, so that I never repeat them. I don't think I could stand it if I ever lose you again." He searched Lizzy's dark eyes. "Promise me you'll never leave..."
Lizzy's heart was stuck in her throat as she said, "Never...never again, I promise. I love you with all my heart, and only death can do us apart..." She smiled happily.
William smiled back, and he hugged her again. It was so hard for him to believe that she'd finally accepted him...after all that time. He didn't want to let go for fear that he'd wake up and find out that it was all a dream. He was terrified of the possibility that none of it was real. He'd dreamed of this moment for so long that it wouldn't surprise him if it really was just a daydream. Hence, the closeness of Lizzy assured him of the reality of it all. So, he held on, inhaling the smell of her hair and perfume, relishing in the moment.
Meanwhile, Lizzy felt all her repressed love for William wash over her as she stood in his embrace, contemplating her decision to succumb to her heart. As far as she was concerned, it was a wise decision. Now that she no longer had concern about her imminent death, there was nothing holding her back except the fear of being hurt again. But she would have to take that chance. As William had said, life was a gamble and she didn't believe that William would do anything to hurt her...ever.
Then, a thought struck Lizzy, and she said, "What about Rachel...?" She looked up at William concerned. She hadn't thought about that, but in her heart she knew that William would love his baby.
"I'll raise her like my own," said William, with a slight smile. "You know I love her and I dare say that she likes me, too."
"Yeah," smiled Lizzy. "She adores you...you're her 'Wiaum'..."
"There you go," said William. "We'll get along fine. I never doubted that."
The last of Lizzy's doubts were cast away with William's words. They hugged even tighter, but William said suddenly, "Oh! I almost forgot. I have something for you..." He whipped out a small, blue, velvet box from his pockets. He opened it, while keeping an eye on Lizzy's reactions. In it was the most beautiful, diamond ring with little rubies on the circumference.
Lizzy gasped. It was breathtaking, exquisite. William slid it on her finger, saying, "Do you remember this?" When Lizzy just shook her head, he said, "Cast your memory way back...to about 6 years ago...the Yale Skating Rink..."
"Oh my!" exclaimed Lizzy. "It's the same ring!!!" Now she remembered...William's offer to her, her refusal, their argument, his disappointment, her anguish. "You kept it all this while...?"
"Of course," said William, softly. "My mother gave it to me to give to the woman I loved. And it could be no one else but you. So, I kept it for you even after you got married...I thought I had no chance with you, but I refused to give up hope. I kept this ring near me always. It gave me inspiration and faith...I knew that if you didn't wear it, this ring would not stay in the Darcy family...I would have given it to Georgiana when she got married..."
"You mean you would never have married?" asked Lizzy, with some surprise.
"No," William shook his head. "No one else can come close to you. My heart is yours forever...whether you want it or not. That's just a fact, an axiom if you will. There was no way I could marry anyone else."
"Oh William!!!" Lizzy cried, as she held him close. "Thank you...for this ring and for loving me so steadfastly."
"It's my pleasure," William said gallantly. "I've been repaid more than enough by your love. Corny as that sounds, it's true!"
They laughed lightly, savoring the feeling of being newly engaged and the knowledge that they wouldn't be apart ever again. They exchanged more sweet nothings in each others' ears, before deciding that it was time to join Georgiana and Rachel. It took great resolve to part temporarily, but they finally accomplished it and went to the living room where Georgie was playing with Rachel.
"Oh! There you are," said Georgie smiling. She hoped they had some news for her and from the look on their faces, there definitely was some very good news.
"Georgie..." said William. "You are looking at your future sister..." He smiled at Lizzy, who just blushed and looked expectantly at Georgie.
Georgie jumped up and came to Lizzy, hugging her and her brother. "Finally!!! You guys take way too long. I'll say! I should know!! Congratulations Lizzy, William!!! If there are two people who deserve happiness, it's you two. I've been a witness all along and I know! I'm so happy for you!"
The good news was also conveyed to Rachel, who was ecstatic to find out that she would have Wiaum as her new daddy. She squealed and asked, "You will live with me and mommy?"
William exchanged glances with Lizzy and said, "Yes, Rachel...soon. We'll have lots of fun together."
This promise made Rachel even more excited and she talked more than usual, though only Lizzy was able to understand most of it. The others just nodded and smiled at her. After a little more talk, Lizzy rose to leave. It was getting quite late and she had to go, much as she hated it. William and Georgie walked her to the door and said good-byes. William kissed Rachel on her cheeks and told her to be good. Then, he looked at Georgie indicating that he wanted a few moments alone with Lizzy. She smiled, nodded and left with another good-bye.
William turned to Lizzy and said, "I know that you have to go, but I wish you could stay..."
Lizzy sighed, "Me too..."
"Then, please don't go...stay." William urged her.
"A very tempting offer," smiled Lizzy. "But you know I can't do that."
"I know," William said. "But I can't bear being away from you much longer..."
For a second, Lizzy was tempted to stay the night. The look in William's eyes was so inviting, but she shook her head. "I'll call you later, okay?"
"Okay, I guess," William said, in an accepting tone. "I love you." He gave her a quick kiss.
"Love you too." Lizzy turned and left.
1 hour later
Lizzy had put Rachel to bed and was sitting by herself in her room. She couldn't believe she was actually engaged. But she had the beautiful ring on her finger to remind herself. She sat down on her bed with her legs close to her body. Her eyes fell on the picture of John, Rachel and her on the table. She couldn't think of marrying William without considering what John's reaction would have been. She hoped he wouldn't disapprove. She had never wanted to hurt him. Somehow, she couldn't get rid of the feeling that she was betraying him. But that was ridiculous. John would have been very happy for her and would have congratulated her, most probably.
Lizzy thought about William and sighed, inadvertently. It amazed her how much she still loved him. One would have thought that the passage of 5 years would have diminished her passion for him. But it had not. She still loved him ardently. She had always loved him, but all these years she had just repressed those feelings. It didn't follow that she did not love John, she did. But not with the same fire as William. She had thought about William more times than she cared to admit in the past years. But she never had the courage to pick up the phone and call him. She knew that hearing his voice would just break her heart. But who could have foreseen the turn of events. John's unfortunate accident had opened so many possibilities. Lizzy wasn't sure of the wisdom of marrying William so soon, but she had succumbed to her heart. All her life she had been concerned with propriety, but this time she felt justified in doing what her feelings told her. It couldn't be all bad.
It occurred to Lizzy that Jane knew nothing of the latest developments. She picked up the phone and dialed her number. "Hello?" Jane answered the phone.
"Jane! It's me!" Lizzy exclaimed.
"Oh, hey Liz!" said Jane. "You sound excited. What's up?"
"You won't believe what happened..." said Lizzy. "I have two things to tell you...brace yourself. Today I had an appointment with Dr. Peterson, and he told me the most extraordinary thing ..." Lizzy conveyed the entire circumstances to Jane.
"Oh my!" exclaimed Jane, as soon as Lizzy was done. "Oh g-d! It's true! You're not that sick...I knew it! Oh, Lizzy! It's wonderful news!! Wait till I tell Charles. I'm so happy for you! I'm so relieved. OH!!"
"Calm down, Jane," Lizzy smiled to herself. "Wait till I tell you the rest."
"Oh, there's more?"
"I saved the best for last," said Lizzy. "I got engaged to William."
"You WHAT??!!" Jane almost shouted.
"I'm marrying William," repeated Lizzy. "I discovered that I loved him beyond reason and there's nothing to stop us from being happy. So, I got engaged..."
"Oh Lizzy!" Jane gushed. "That's such wonderful news! I knew you two would get together. It was only a matter of time!! That's why I insisted you come to the reunion."
"You knew he'd be there?" asked Lizzy.
"Of course!" Jane laughed. "Charles made sure of it."
"Bad, bad Jane!" Lizzy cried. "And you didn't tell me!"
"Would you have come if I did?" asked Jane.
"NO!!"
"That's why I didn't tell you," said Jane. "Someday you'll thank me for that."
"Thank you, Jane," said Lizzy.
"Anytime, Liz," said Jane, happily. "I'm so happy for you, I really am. Not that I didn't love John, too, but I really think you and William suit each other the most. You complete each other. And now Rachel will have a daddy..."
"Yes, she will," said Lizzy. "She sure will."
The sisters talked a little more before hanging up. Lizzy felt much better after talking with her sister. Jane always cheered her up and all the doubts she was having were blown away. In her heart, she could now be easy that she was in fact doing the right thing. She looked again at the picture of John and said, "I hope you can forgive me..."
The next morning
William was late for breakfast, so he found Georgie already there. "Good morning!" he said brightly.
"Morning," replied Georgie.
"Tell me yesterday wasn't just a dream," William said as he sat down opposite Georgie.
"It was real, Will," smiled Georgie. "Lizzy and you are engaged...finally!"
"I'm so happy!!" William said, humming a tune while buttering his toast.
"Really? I couldn't tell," Georgie said sarcastically, with a gleam in her eyes. But William didn't mind. In fact, he didn't hear her. His thoughts were faraway, at someone else.
After a while, he said, "I think I'll call her...she'll be awake by now."
"Go ahead," said Georgie. She was about to suggest that he finish breakfast, but she refrained. She knew better than to reason with a person in love. William went to the phone and dialed Lizzy's number.
After a few rings, someone picked up the phone. "Hello?" came Lizzy's voice.
"Good morning, beautiful," William said sweetly.
"Oh, it's you," said Lizzy.
"Is that all the greeting I am to have the honor to expect?" said William.
"Yes," said Lizzy archly. "Especially if you don't quit saying things like that. I'm still half asleep, you know."
"I'm sorry...did I wake you up?" William was concerned.
"Nah...I was up," said Lizzy. "I didn't get much sleep yesterday, that's all."
"Oh..." said William. "Were you dreaming of me?"
"You wish!" Lizzy said in a teasing tone.
"I'm hurt...I was dreaming of you!" said William.
"Well...I'll let you in a secret," said Lizzy. "I was dreaming of a dark-haired man who stole my heart. Do you happen to know him?"
"Maybe..." William said, deliberately. "Is he any good?"
"Oh yes!" gushed Lizzy, enjoying herself. "He's the best!"
"Then, I definitely envy him!" said William. "He stole your heart, you say?"
"Yes, he did," said Lizzy. "And he's so warm, sensitive and charming...handsome too!"
"How can I ever compete with that?" William said, sounding wistful.
"Would it help if I told you that man was you...?" said Lizzy, teasingly.
"Oh, I knew it!" William exclaimed. "You were playing with me all along!"
"Gee...you're so smart!" said Lizzy archly.
"Hey!" cried William, laughing. "If I were there right now, I'd take you in my arms and -"
"And...what?" urged Lizzy.
"Well, you'll just have to wait and find out," said William. "What do you say we both ditch work and go out somewhere?"
"As tempting as that sounds, I can't," said Lizzy. "I have some important clients coming over."
William sighed, "Yeah, me too...I was just being a little impulsive. Oh well..."
"Well...I have to go..."
"Okay..." said William. "I'll call you tonight. I love you."
"I love you, too," said Lizzy. "Bye! Have a good day!"
"You too," said William and he hung up. He was about to head back to the table when the phone rang. Thinking it might be Lizzy, he picked it up, "Hello? Liz?!"
"No, Mr. Darcy, this is Sgt. Lewis. I have some news for you..." Sgt. Lewis proceeded to tell him of the latest developments.
"Okay, Sgt.," said William, as soon as he was done. "I'll be there ASAP." He hung up.
Georgie came up to him, "Who was that?"
"Sgt. Lewis," William informed her. "They caught Wickham, and they want us there."
Georgie didn't say anything for a moment, and then, "Do I have to go?" She didn't particularly relish the idea of going to see Wickham, especially that early in the morning.
"Yes, I'm afraid so," said William. "You'll have to identify him..."
"Oh, alright," said Georgie. "If I absolutely have to."
"That's my sister," William said, hugging her. "Let's go!"
Within 15 minutes, they were ready and on their way to the Police HQ. Once there, they were shown to Sgt. Lewis' office. He rose to greet them, "Good morning. Thank you for coming down here so promptly with such short notice."
"We're glad to help any way we can," said William, speaking for both of them. "Where is Wickham?"
"This way please," said Sgt. Lewis, leading them to the cell where Wickham had been detained. He was sitting on the far corner with his back facing them.
"Here are some people to see you," said Sgt. Lewis.
Wickham turned, got up and walked closer, "Oh...well, well, Darcy! We meet again!"
"The pleasure is not mine," said William in a low voice.
"I'm sorry to hear that," said Wickham, in a mocking tone. "We used to be such friends...ah, and I see you brought Georgie with you! How nice!" He tried to extend his hand to touch Georgie.
"Stay away from my sister!" barked William.
"Okay, okay," said Wickham. "Calm down. I'm not assaulting her or anything."
"You failed twice already," said William.
"You can't prove a thing!" sneered Wickham.
"Oh yeah? Don't be so sure." Although William sounded so confident, he knew that he didn't have any solid evidence. He believed that Georgie had seen him, but any jury would need better evidence.
"You're just bluffing," said Wickham. "You don't have any evidence!"
William decided to bluff. "You can think what you want, but we both know how vulnerable your situation is."
Wickham eyed him suspiciously, as William continued, "You are risking everything in a gamble..."
Wickham said nothing. He was too confused.
William said, "Didn't you know you shouldn't trust a woman so much?" He was referring to Lydia. "They just blab everything out in a heartbeat. I thought you knew better than that?" He hoped Wickham would fall into the trap and reveal more about Lydia.
But Wickham cried, "Oh! I'm going to kill Melissa! She is such a blabbermouth. That b****!!!"
William was shocked, dumfounded. Melissa?
Chapter 40
William was silent for a long time, trying to absorb the latest development. "Um...yeah...Melissa..." he said slowly, stealing a look at Georgie who dared not raise her eyes. He looked at Wickham again, and said, "You have been of great help." He addressed Georgie, "Come on...we'll get going." He talked briefly with Sgt. Lewis before leaving with Georgie.
For sometime, they both were silent. Then, William broke it by saying, "I can't believe this..."
Georgie said quietly, "Neither can I...but should we trust Wickham?"
"That's a point," agreed William. "But somehow I have a feeling that he isn't lying this time...I don't know why...but if it is true..."
"No, Melissa would never do anything like that," Georgie shook her head, as they got into the car. "I mean, she can be mean and petty, but I can't imagine her trying to kill me...and with Wickham too! No, that's too much, even for her."
William didn't comment. After a few moments, he said, "Well, I suppose the only way of finding out is through Melissa herself. But I don't want you to talk to her. I have a lawyer's instincts. I can set her up in a trap and extort the truth somehow or the other. Okay?"
"Yes," Georgie nodded.
They drove on with little conversation. Each was occupied with his or her own thoughts. Both of them were glad that Wickham was safe behind bars. But they were uneasy about Melissa. Though they tried to convince themselves that Melissa could not be involved in the conspiracy, the seeds of doubt had been planted. But it was still hard to believe. True, they weren't particularly fond of her, but she had been their friend once upon a time...they had practically grown up together. But then again, so had Wickham. So, maybe that didn't count.
William resolved to confide the entire matter to Lizzy. She was an excellent lawyer, and any advice she could give him would be valuable. Now that they had decided to spend their life together, he had no fear in sharing anything with her. She would truly be his partner in good times and bad. At least, he hoped so. It was the way it should be, and he, for one, was ready to make it that way.
That Saturday afternoon; at Pemberley
Lizzy and Rachel were spending chief of the day at Pemberley, at William's request. Georgie was home, too, and her main objective had been to keep Rachel occupied and out of their way. She had been successful, too. Rachel had not asked for Lizzy, and was quite happy watching cartoons and playing with her favorite toys. This gave William and Lizzy time alone.
They were lounging in the living room. Lizzy was sitting comfortably on the couch with William resting his head on her lap. She stroked his head and played with his hair, smiling all the time. He had informed her of Wickham's arrest, but hadn't told her about Melissa yet. Truth be told, he hesitated to bring up the topic of Melissa. They had argued about her a long time ago, and he still shuddered at the thought of what had happened before. And besides, Melissa hadn't shown up yet. But she would probably be there any day. He needed to tell Lizzy. And this was his opportunity.
"Lizzy?" he said softly, looking up into her eyes, as he lay there.
"Hmm?" she murmured.
"There's something I have to tell you..." he said.
"Yes?"
"It's about Wickham...actually something he said..."
Lizzy looked down at him suspiciously. He was being very cautious and was definitely uncomfortable. It was probably a delicate situation. She suspected it was something to do with her. "Is it about Lydia? Does Wickham blame her?"
"No, no!" William said, getting up. He sat down beside her. "It's not about Lydia...it's about Melissa..."
This caught Lizzy's full attention. "I'm listening..."
"Well, Wickham seemed to imply that Melissa had been a co-conspirator in the whole mess...that she was in it all along..."
Lizzy was silent for a moment, "But is it true?"
"I'm not sure," said William. "There's no proof, unless either Wickham or Melissa admit to it. But Melissa hasn't been around for a while. I expect she'll be back soon."
Lizzy said, "Do you believe it's true?"
"Honestly, I don't know what to think," answered William. "I mean, I know that Melissa has bad points, but I can't imagine her plotting Georgie's attack in cold blood."
"I can," said Lizzy, more sharply than she'd intended. "William, that woman is as low as they come. She puts on this innocent girl face before you, but she is mean, vicious and brutal. She will destroy anything that comes in her way, even Georgie. It's so obvious that she still wants you. So, I have no trouble believing she'd do something like that...it's so clear...but the again, you've always been blind to her faults." Lizzy got up from the couch and went to stare out of the window.
"Lizzy, don't tell me you still haven't forgiven me for that," William followed her to the window. He was referring, of course, to the unfortunate "incident" with Melissa many years ago. "You know how sorry I am about that. I wish it had never happened, but I can't change the past. I'm trying to forget and move on."
"Well, obviously, she hasn't forgotten," Lizzy shot back. "Or else she wouldn't still be around trying to get you...obviously that one-night stand meant more to her than to you...or did it?" She looked at William. "If you don't care about her why is she still in your house after all this time?"
"She was nursing Georgie, remember?" said William. "For heavens' sake, I don't even know why we're having this conversation at all! It was so long ago! Ancient history! Right now, we're supposed to be discussing how to find out the truth."
"I'll tell you the truth," said Lizzy, in a loud voice. "Melissa is a witch and you're just not ready to accept the fact, which leads me to believe that there's more to your relationship than meets the eye." She looked William straight in the eye. "Recently I had tried to ignore the fact that Melissa existed and I hoped she would disappear. But apparently that's not going to happen. She'll keep coming back to haunt us forever...that one night is never going to cease to exist."
William was getting very angry at what he thought was a very irrational side of Lizzy. After her tirade, he spat out, "You keep on harping about that one night...well, at least I didn't marry someone else just to get even, like you did!"
Lizzy was shocked; silent. Then, she said, "Is that what you really think?"
"You didn't love John, you never did," said William, spitefully.
Lizzy couldn't believe she was hearing this from William. He of all people should know her position. His words angered her more. She said, "Alright...if that's the way you feel..." She took off her ring and handed it to William. She turned to leave, saying, "A relationship needs trust and an ability to resolve old issues. We lack both...it would never work. Goodbye!" And then, she stormed out of the room. William looked at the ring she'd given back to him, and cried inwardly...Oh g-d! I've screwed up big time!
He heard Lizzy get Rachel and leave the house shortly afterward. He wanted to go after her and apologize, but knew it wouldn't work. When Lizzy got mad, she got mad. And there was nothing anyone could do to assuage her. He would have to try and talk to her later, when she was in a calmer and more rational mood.
Just then, Georgie came running in, "William?! What was that all about? What'd you do?"
William shook his head, "We had a little fight..." He showed her the ring, "She gave it back..."
"William!" Georgie exclaimed. "You have to go after her!!! You can't just let her go away!"
"No, I don't intend to," said William. "I didn't work so hard to get her back, just to lose her again. But I said some hateful things right now...she's very mad at me. I'd better defer talking to her right now. She won't listen."
Georgie nodded. "I understand...but what could you have said?"
"I don't want you to hear it, Georgie," said William, hanging his head. "You would be ashamed of me..."
"Then, maybe I don't want to know," said Georgie. "Just fix it, okay? And soon?"
"Yes, I will. I promise," said William. He was just about to say something when the front door opened and someone came running in. William thought it might be Lizzy and he ran to the door. Unfortunately, it wasn't Lizzy.
"Hey William!!!" exclaimed Melissa. "I'm back! So sweet of you to welcome me like this!" She giggled as she put her bags down. "Oh, I saw Liz leave the driveway...what was she doing here?"
"She was here because I invited her," said William, rather coldly. Unlike you, he added mentally. He wasn't sure whether Melissa was worth fighting about. The more he saw her, the more he was aware of Lizzy's superiority in every aspect.
"Oh? I see," said Melissa. She spied Georgie on the doorway. She ran to hug her. "Hey Georgie!! How are you?!"
"Good," said Georgie. "Still alive."
This discomfited Melissa, but she quickly recovered, smiling, "Oh! Of course! What a thing to say!!"
Georgie gave her a tiny smile. She found that as long as there was doubt in her mind, she couldn't bring herself to be nice to Melissa. She looked pleadingly at William, who understood her plight and said, "Oh, btw, did you know...Melissa's attacker was caught."
Melissa faked surprise as best as she could and said, "Oh really?! That's great news!"
"Yeah, definitely," said William, searching her eyes for any signs of discomfort. "And what surprised us all more was that it was somebody we know..."
"Oh?" Melissa waited to be told the inevitable.
"Yeah, you'll be shocked...it was George Wickham."
"Oh re- really?" Melissa stammered. "How awful!"
William nodded in complete agreement. "Yes, it was awful. We went down to the station to see him and he had some pretty interesting things to say..."
Interesting? This doesn't sound good... "Uh-huh?"
"Well..." said William. "He said that YOU were involved in the whole darn thing with Georgie! I laughed at him, knowing that you would never do anything like that to us. I didn't believe him, of course."
"Of course," said Melissa, numb.
"And then...," William emphasized. "He went on about how he had some proof or something. He said that he taped some conversations or something like that. All BS, if you ask me..." He looked keenly at Melissa to see if she bought his story.
Melissa paled, mumbling something indistinct.
William continued, "I didn't know how to contact you before, but now that you're here we should go down to the police station and clear it all up. And Wickham can be exposed as the liar he really is."
Melissa hesitated. She looked at Georgie and then, William. "Um...now?"
"Yeah, we should go now," said William. "No reason to postpone it. And plus Wickham said he'd have those "tapes" delivered to him. This could be fun!"
Melissa shifted uncomfortably on her feet. "Is it necessary? I mean, we know he's lying, so we could just let it be. It might be unpleasant..."
"Oh no!" said William. "We'll have to go. Sgt. Lewis wants it cleared up. And I agree with him. After all, you have nothing to fear, do you?"
Melissa gulped and said nothing.
"Do you?" repeated William with an edge in his voice. Melissa hung her head and said nothing. William exclaimed, "Oh my g-d! So it's true!!" He was shocked.
"Well...if you'd only listen to me..." Melissa tried to defend herself.
"Listen to you!!" This time Georgie spoke up. "The nerve of some people! You have professed to be my friend and all this time you were plotting to kill me!! How could you?! How do you dare show your face here again?! Why? What did I ever do to you?" Georgie was pained and hurt.
"I didn't want to get you killed, Georgie!" wailed Melissa, breaking down. "I was desperate. I needed to get close to William. And the only way I saw that possible was if I could get into Pemberley as a nurse...so I hired Wickham to give you a good scare...I didn't know he was going to hurt you..."
"Really?" said Georgie. "I don't believe you. I can't ever believe anything you say ever again!!! In fact, I think I never want to see you again!"
William said, "What about Lydia?"
"That was George's idea," said Melissa. "He wanted to use her to discredit Lizzy..."
Georgie gave a short laugh. "And to think that you went to all this trouble for nothing!! Lizzy and William got engaged!!!! You have no chance!"
Melissa didn't say anything, just looked at them dumbly. Then, she managed to speak. "What are you going to do with me?"
"I would like to do many things to you," said William with a steely look in his eyes. "You broke our trust, you lied and plotted right under our noses. You're a sorry excuse for a human being. Anyone with a decent heart would have had to deal with their conscience, but I guess it doesn't apply to you. After all, it's a human emotion...you don't even have a heart...I don't ever want to see in or around Pemberley ever again. If I even so much as hear from you, you'll be sorry. Don't ever try to contact me or Georgie. The police will be calling you to get statements and so forth. If you co-operate you might not be convicted. I'm not going to press charges, and you should be thankful for that..." He looked at Georgie, who nodded her agreement. "Now, get the hell out of our lives. And don't come back!"
Melissa looked as if she was about ready to cry. She picked up her bags, and left for the door. Before she left, she looked at them and said, "I'm sorry..."
When she was gone, William held Georgie's hands and said, "Was I too soft on her? She deserves far worse..."
Georgie shook her head, "I'm angry too, but she's just not worth it."
"I agree," said William. "Will you be very angry if I told you that my fight with Lizzy had been over her?"
"Oh, William!" exclaimed Georgie. "How could you?!"
"I know, I know," said William, sheepishly. "I was a stupid, dumb a**!"
"Yeah, you were," agreed Georgie. "You have to go and talk to her today!"
"Yes, I will," said William. "I will get her back. I'll get down on my knees and beg her to come back, if that's what it takes. But she's not slipping between my fingers this time."
Georgie smiled at her brother and kissed him on the cheeks. "Don't you find it ironic that the same people who ruined it for you last time almost did it again this time?"
"Wickham and Melissa? Yeah." Agreed William. "But this time, they won't succeed. I'll move heaven and earth to get her back." The determination in his eyes left no doubts in Georgie's mind that he would.
That evening; at Lizzy's apartment
The doorbell rang, and Lizzy quickly dried her tears which had been flowing ever since she came back from Pemberley. She walked to the door and half opened it.
"Hi," said William.
"Hi," she answered in a small voice.
"Can I come in?"
"Why?" she said.
"I want to talk...please?"
"I have nothing to say," Lizzy said.
"But I do," said William. "I'm so sorry, Lizzy...please let me in?"
Lizzy looked at him a moment and sighed, "Okay...but make this quick." She opened the door to let him in.
He walked in, grateful and as soon as the door was closed, said, "Look, Lizzy...I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry...I'll say that a million times if you want. I really mean it. It was very wrong of me to say that. Please forgive me." He looked pleadingly into her eyes.
"You really hurt me," said Lizzy, her eyes softening.
"I know, and I didn't mean to," said William. "I just became angry and couldn't help it."
"Well...maybe you had some reason to be angry," Lizzy conceded, as she sat on the couch. "I was a little upset, too."
"You had every right to be," said William, sitting down next to her. "Melissa came back and it turns out you were right. She is scum. She had planned to hurt Georgie, so that she could get into Pemberley near me."
"I knew it!" exclaimed Lizzy. "Should I say 'I told you so'...?"
"Yes, you should," William looked sheepish.
"Well, I won't," said Lizzy. "But you know what I said about trust and resolving of issues in relationship is still true."
"Yes," said William. "I know what you mean...but we can work it out, really we can. We just have to try."
"So, let's start right now," said Lizzy, half-smiling. "Do you really believe what you said then? Do you think I married John to spite you?"
William looked at Lizzy and said, "No...I don't think so..."
"But you do have doubts...?" Lizzy persisted.
"Who wouldn't?" replied William. "You never really talked to me about it back then. I know that you were really, really fond of John, but love...? I don't know. Sometimes I think you convinced yourself that you were in love so much that it seemed real. I know you better than to think that you'd marry for reasons other in love."
"Thank you," said Lizzy. "But you must believe me...I really did love John...maybe not with the intensity as I loved you, but it was a different kind of love."
"I understand," said William slowly. "And I believe you...now it's my turn. Do you believe in what you said about my relations with Melissa?"
Lizzy shook her head, "I don't know...I don't think so...but you see, it's always been a sensitive subject with me. So this afternoon when you told me about her, it's like a bomb went off. I behaved rather irrationally, I think...but I hate her so much. Oh!"
"Well, you don't ever have to see her again," said William, putting a comforting arm around her. "I told you this before and I'll tell you again...I never ever had any feelings vaguely romantic for Melissa...that night it just happened...I was mourning for you and she just happened to be there. There was no love involved. And I've regretted that night ever since. You must believe me."
"I think I do," Lizzy said, inclining her head. "But it was so hard to believe then."
William nodded. "Yes...so we have that covered. Now on to the other thing you said...trust. Do you trust me?"
"I have trusted you with the most precious thing I have," said Lizzy. "My heart."
William looked her in the eyes, adoringly. "And I trust you with my life." He could hold himself no longer, and he bent down to give her a long, lingering kiss. Then, he took out the ring and held her hand. "Do you accept this now?"
Lizzy beamed, "Yes!" He slipped it on her finger. She said, "You know, I didn't want to give it back!"
"Then, you shouldn't have!" replied William. "But it doesn't matter. Our love is like this ring...it doesn't have an end!!"
Lizzy bestowed him with another winning smile and he kissed her again. They were both ecstatic at the way things had turned out. For a while, they had thought that happiness eluded them once again. But this time they weren't ready to give up. Such perfect love is so hard to find that it would be stupid to give it up, twice. So, when they kissed, his soul touched hers and they were aware of the very great blessing they had...they gift of love.
One month later; William and Lizzy's wedding
The bride's room was bustling with activity as the final touches were being put on the bride and the bridesmaids. Lizzy had asked Jane, Georgie, Charlotte and Caroline to be her bridesmaids. They'd accepted, of course. And Rachel was to be the flower-girl. She looked so adorable in her little white dress. She was very excited and happy.
Lizzy looked beautiful in her simple, off-white, satin dress. Caroline was helping her with her hair. She said, "I still can't believe you're getting married! Are you nervous?"
"A little," Lizzy admitted.
"I can imagine," said Caroline. "My wedding is still kinda far away and I'm nervous already." Caroline and Richard had set their wedding date for September 18; a very lucky day.
"Really?" said Lizzy. "I have butterflies in my tummy. I hope William likes my dress..."
"He'll love it!" exclaimed Georgie, who'd been listening to them. "And he'll be looking at you, not your dress. He'd love you in anything!"
"Thanks, Georgie," Lizzy hugged her.
Just then, Charlotte came in. "Lizzy, your mom's coming! Alert!"
Even as she said that, Mrs. Bennet bustled in. "Oh Lizzy! You are positively glowing! You are so beautiful! But hurry up girls! We'll be late!"
"Yes, mom," said Lizzy, repressing a giggle. She knew she was her mom's favorite right now. She had made her so happy. When Mrs. Bennet had first heard the news, Lizzy had been glad that William had not been there to witness it. She had gushed and exclaimed non-stop for 10 minutes. Her dream would come true at last...her Lizzy would marry William Darcy!
Jane came in to tell them that they should be heading out soon. She hugged Lizzy, saying, "I'm so happy for you, Liz! You look wonderful!"
Lizzy smiled and beamed and after little adieu they all exited the room. Mr. Bennet, who would give Lizzy away, waited for them outside. Lizzy came up to him.
"Ready?" he said, kissing her daughter's hand. When she nodded, he said, "You look so lovely Lizzy. I'm very proud of you. I love you."
"I love you, too, dad," smiled Lizzy.
"Shall we go, then?" he offered her his hand.
"Yes," she smiled at him and they walked together towards the aisle.
The bridal march played, but Lizzy wasn't listening. She had other things on her mind.
(I do swear that I'll always be there. I'd give
anything and everything and I will always care.
Through weakness and strength, happiness
and sorrow, for better or worse, I will love you
with every beat of my heart.)
She glided down the aisle slowly, looking straight ahead, waiting for the first glimpse of him.
From this moment life has begun
From this moment you are the one
Right beside you is where I belong
From this moment on
Her heart beat so wildly that she thought it must be audible to everyone in the church. She glanced at Mr. Bennet who smiled at her.
From this moment I have been blessed
I live only for your happiness
And for your love I'd give my last breath
From this moment on
Her heart soared as she caught the first glimpse of William's form, standing there, waiting for her. She smiled even more brightly, lighting up the room.
I give my hand to you with all my heart
Can't wait to live my life with you, can't wait to start
You and I will never be apart
My dreams came true because of you
Lizzy thought of all their trials and tribulations. It was a matter of the past, but it was a wonder that they reached there at all. A real wonder!
From this moment as long as I live
I will love you, I promise you this
There is nothing I wouldn't give
From this moment on
As they neared the altar, Lizzy could discern William looking at her with love shining in his eyes, and she knew his thoughts weren't much different.
You're the reason I believe in love
And you're the answer to my prayers from up above
All we need is just the two of us
My dreams came true because of you
They were almost there! Lizzy's heart fluttered and pounded, and she was afraid of fainting right there.
From this moment as long as I live
I will love you, I promise you this
From this moment
I will love you as long as I live
From this moment on*
Mr. Bennet handed Lizzy over to William, as the service began. But Lizzy and William heard none of it. Each was admiring the other with such pure, absolute love that it left no room for a third person. They were lost in each other, and almost forgot where they were. William was brought back to earth when the priest's voice said,
"Do you, William Fitzwilliam Darcy, take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife to cherish and to keep, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, till death do you apart?"
William looked Lizzy in the eye and said unhesitatingly, "I do."
"Do you, Elizabeth Ann Bennet Michaels, take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband to cherish and to keep, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, till death do you apart?"
Lizzy's heart was stuck in her throat as she said clearly, "I do."
The priest said, "By the power invested in me by god and the state of New York, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride!"
William smiled at Lizzy. He whispered, "I love you..." before bending down to kiss her as never before, their first kiss as a newly wedded couple. It was a mingling of hearts, of souls, of spirits, of two human beings, in the holiest of alliances. It was the magic and power of being in love, and the gift of being human. It was the ultimate favor bestowed by god on man, enabling him to follow his heart and find heaven on earth, in the arms of his beloved.
*From this moment on - Shania Twain
Epilogue
On their return, Lizzy left her old job to join Messieurs Fitzwilliam & Darcy as a partner. She communicated the news of her cancer to her family and friends, who were very concerned. But they were assured that there was nothing to worry about. Lizzy got a lumpectomy done, i.e., a surgical removal of her lump. In addition, she underwent mild chemotherapy on the doctor's recommendations. She had never gone back to Dr. Peterson.
George Wickham was tried and convicted two counts of assault and attempted murder. He was also charged with other crimes from 5 other states. He was sentenced for 15 years in prison without parole. Georgiana was charged with involuntary manslaughter for Lydia's death, but was not convicted due to the circumstances. Melissa also escaped without any charge, as she helped the police and was not charged by the Darcys. However, after the trial, she failed to make a respectable living as a nurse. She moved to Chicago and worked as an exotic dancer on the side. She was never heard from again.
Richard and Caroline got married on September 18, in a simple ceremony with only the close friends and relatives. Charlotte moved in to live with Tyler Owens, whom she later married. Jane and Charles finally gave birth to a baby girl, whom they named Kathlyn Ann Bingley. She was an adorable little creature, and a joy to both Jane and Charles who had hoped for a child for so long. Elizabeth and William were to be her god-parents.
Speaking of which, Lizzy also gave birth to a baby boy, who was christened, John Bennet Darcy, after the late, unforgettable friend John Michaels. William loved the little John with all his heart as he did Rachel. In fact, she grew up calling William her dad, since she had known no other. As for William and Lizzy, their love and happiness knew no end. They enjoyed the kind of conjugal felicity that is envied by most. They shared the kind of love and marital bliss that is present only in fairy tales. But then, maybe it was a fairy tale. Their love for each other grew stronger with every day, if that was possible. Their passion for each other never died no matter what the circumstance. It was, indeed, a most fortunate union of souls. And this love can be described best by the words of William to Elizabeth...
'Everything I do, I do it for you...it's all because of you.'
The End
Author's Note: It's done! Finished! Now I can get a dot next to my story too! yay! This was the first story I ever wrote, so I'm very happy that I finally finished it! At long last! I want to thank each and every one of you for reading this and encouraging me on the way. There were times when I felt disheartened and didn't want to continue it, but your persistence kept me going. I love you all, and yes, that includes the Lynch Mob.If I was more organized i would thank everyone by name, but unfortunately I can't do that. So, I want to thank you all for being such a wonderful audience and such good friends!!! Writing has been my haven and DWG gave me an outlet to express myself. Thanks to Kathlyn and Ann for editing my stories and keeping this place, my second home running!!! You guys are the best! You make us all very happy!!
Enough with my rambling already! *rolls eyes* I talk too much! Oh well!! =) Thanks again! Oh, btw, I have decided to write a prequel about when they all were in college, so look out for that in the fall!
Much love and thanks!