Jump to new as of March 15, 2000
Jump to new as of March 18, 2000
Jump to new as of March 19, 2000
Chapter 1
In the words of Scarlet O'Hara, 'Tomorrow is another day.'
You were the last man in the world whom I could ever be prevailed on to marry. Darcy kept that phrase in his mind while walking around the next day. 'How could I have been so blind, I should have told her the truth about Wickham from the beginning. But what about Bingley?' Darcy said to no one, sitting down by the lake lost in thought.
'So what about Mr. Bingley?' A voice came from behind him.
'Miss Bennet!' Darcy answered surprised, 'what are you doing here?'
'Same as you sir, walking around cleaning my head. Well excuse me. Good Day Mr. Darcy.'
'Miss Bennet! Wait please,' here is my chance to explain. ' Please I want to explain myself to you.'
'Very well sir, do explain I am listening.'
'Please sit down.' Darcy said motioning to the bench he was sitting on. Elizabeth sat down and he started to explain his connection with Wickham. 'For the truth of it, you can ask my cousin, Fitzwilliam, he knows all that happen.' Darcy concluded.
'Oh Mr. Darcy, I am so sorry. Why didn't you say anything, I mean all the lies he spread around Meryton about you.' Elizabeth said looking at this misunderstood man.
'No I couldn't! How could I do that to my sister? You have a dearly loved sister, wouldn't you protect her at all costs?' Darcy said looking at her.
'Yes I would. And that brings the next accusation up. Why did you do that to Jane? Why did you have to hurt her so, I mean you loved your sister dearly and don't want to see her hurt. So why would you do it to another?' Elizabeth said a little angry.
'I didn't see that your sister loved Bingley. She took his compliments with great regard and affection but to me her heart didn't seem likely to be touched. She isn't like you Miss Elizabeth, you tell people what you think and feel. Miss Bennet finds fault in no one and tries to please everyone.'
Elizabeth just looked at him with shock. He was right, Charlotte was right, Jane does do that. Oh dear! How could I have been so blind? 'Mr. Darcy I understand why you did what you did and you are correct about my sister and me. But I know Jane and she did and still does love Mr. Bingley.'
'Is she still in London?'
'Yes, till I return.'
'Okay, then I will write to Bingley and tell him so. No doubt he will want to see her.' Darcy said looking at her reaction.
'You would do that, why?' Elizabeth's surprise was evident.
'Because I care about my friend and as you said it is I who was to blame. So it is I who must remedy it. If you will excuse me Miss Bennet I must go. God bless you Elizabeth, I wish you joy in your life.' Darcy said quietly getting up and preparing to leave.
Chapter 2
Elizabeth heard what he said and thought do I really want him to go. 'Mr. Darcy wait please! Don't go. Stay and walk with me, maybe we could talk.'
'I'd like that Miss Bennet.' Darcy said smiling warmly at her. Darcy offered his arm and when she took it, they both headed off walking and for once they were able to talk, really talk. He talked about his sister and she talked about her life growing up.
'So you were your father's favorite daughter?'
'Yes. I am the only sensible one as he put it the day before Mr. Bingleys arrival.
'I saw as much. Oh I'm sorry that didn't come out well.'
'That's okay. You see when Jane and I were younger we went to my Aunt and Uncle Gardiner's house. They are sensible people and taught my sister and me plenty. I guess that is why I never pay much attention to my mother. As she says 'I am my father's daughter'.' Elizabeth said laughing, 'so how about you? Who are you like?'
'I am umm, I guess like...actually I am not sure.' Darcy said uncomfortably.
'Hey that's okay, maybe I could figure it out. Tell me about your parents.'
'No, not now. I am sorry I can't.' Darcy said quietly bowing his head to avoid her eyes.
'That's okay, maybe some other time you can tell me.' Elizabeth said placing her hand on his arm to comfort him.
Darcy was startled but he looked at her and smiled. 'Thank you for understanding.'
About another hour they both decided it was best that Elizabeth return to the parsonage.
'Mr. Darcy are you leaving today with your cousin?'
'I was planning on such. Why?'
'No reason,' Elizabeth said looking down.
'Miss Bennet may I ask you a question?'
'Sure Mr. Darcy, you may ask me anything.' She said still looking at her feet. She then felt his hand under her chin to raise her head so he could look her in the eyes.
'May we start over?' Elizabeth nodded. 'Would you then allow me to court you properly?'
'Yes Mr. Darcy, I would like that.' Elizabeth said smiling warmly and shyly at him.
'Thank you Miss Bennet.'
'May I ask you a question?'
'Yes.'
'May you please call me Elizabeth or Lizzy, since we know each other a little better now.' She said smiling at him. Please say yes, I did enjoy it when you called me Elizabeth.
'I would like that Elizabeth. And you must do the same as well.' Darcy said smiling.
'I cannot sir.' Elizabeth said smiling.
'Why not?' Darcy asked questionably.
'I don't know your name sir?'
'Oh yes, it's Fitzwilliam. My sister however, calls me William. You may do the same if you wish.'
Elizabeth laughed and said, 'William. I like that, then it is a deal William. It does explain one thing.'
'What's that?'
'Why you looked at your aunt when she said Fitzwilliam. I couldn't figure it out. I thought she was addressing your cousin, not you.'
'Yes, well I call my cousin Fitzwilliam and he calls me Darcy. It's been like that since we were kids.'
'Ok I see, well here we are, I will see you later William.' Elizabeth said smiling, her eyes bright with laughter.
'Yes I will see you later Elizabeth. Good day.' Darcy said not leaving yet. He then bent down and with Elizabeth's consent kissed her softly on her lips. When they parted, Darcy stood there and looked at her, smiled and said, 'I better leave.'
'Yes, bye William.' Elizabeth said dreamily, still with the effects of the kiss playing on her.
Part 3
That afternoon at Rosings was a typical one. Lady Catherine doing all the talking, Mr. Collins agreeing with every word, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth chatting about music and such, and Mr. Darcy staring at Elizabeth. Finally, Darcy had enough of his aunt and asked, 'Miss Bennet, I don't believe you have seen the maze here. Would you care to see it?'
'Yes, I would like that very much sir.' Elizabeth replied with a sparkle in her eye.
'If you'll excuse us Aunt Catherine.' Darcy said taking Elizabeth's arm and walking her out.
'Thank you William. I hate to say it but I can't be around your aunt and my cousin all that long.' Elizabeth said smiling.
'Tell me about it.' Darcy said rolling his eyes. 'If I hear her mention one more thing about me marring Anne, I am going to run and never return.'
'You mean you don't want to marry Miss De Bourgh.' Elizabeth said laughing.
'No! Good heavens no. It is only she that wants thinks so. I am not nor was I ever planning on marrying my cousin.' Darcy said quietly, looking off into the distance.
'Well that makes two of us.'
'What does that mean Elizabeth?'
'What? Oh never mind.' Elizabeth said looking away.
'You mean that you never wanted to marry your cousin, Mr. Collins either?' Darcy said shyly.
'How did you know about that sir?' Elizabeth said looking at him in all astonishment.
'It was well rumored, especially at the Netherfield Ball.'
'Oh yeah. Well I once told Jane that if I did ever marry it would be for love. I didn't love my cousin, nor could I imagine a life with him so I told him no. Besides I am reminded of what a loveless marriage is daily and I do not want that life for myself.' Elizabeth said quietly.
'That is why you said no.' Darcy replied quietly.
'Yes. I am sorry for hurting you. Please I am sorry William.' Elizabeth said looking at him.
'That's okay. Actually what you said is the truth about me. I am what you said I was.'
'No you're not.' Elizabeth said grabbing his hand. 'I just didn't know you. I didn't give you the chance, and now I am and I am enjoying the person I see.' She finished smiling warmly at him.
'Okay, well lets go into the maze and see if we can solve it.' Darcy replied grinning like a boy.
'Okay, lets.'
'No I think we went that way before William.' Elizabeth said laughing.
'Are you sure?'
'Yes William I am. Let's try this way.'
'Nah I think we'll wait here for the rescue. In the mean time,' William said grinning pulling her to him.
'Mr. Darcy what are you doing?'
'Nothing and its William.' He replied smiling and before Elizabeth could answer he bent and kissed her.
'That's not fair William Darcy. I think I am finding my own way out of here.' Elizabeth replied with mock anger.
'Oh not you aren't.' William said tightening his grip on her.
'Let me go Mr. Darcy!' Elizabeth said while trying not to laugh.
'No! I am holding you forever and never letting you go.'
Elizabeth was about to reply when she looked in his eyes and realized that he means it. She grins and replies, 'Well since I have no other option.' She then reaches around his waist and snuggles into his warm embrace. Inhaling his scent she just stands there feeling safe and warm. They stay that way for a bit until they hear a voice.
'Darcy! Miss Bennet! Are you two in here?'
'Yes Fitzwilliam, we are over here.' Darcy yells letting go of Elizabeth.
'There you two are. We were beginning to worry about you.'
'We're fine Colonel Fitzwilliam, just that Mr. Darcy here can't seem to find his way out of here.' Elizabeth said laughing.
'Well I don't get lost Miss Bennet, shall we?' Colonel Fitzwilliam said offering her his arm.
'Um,' Elizabeth said looking at the hurt in Darcy's eyes. 'No thanks Colonel, I will walk out with Mr. Darcy. You can lead the way so we don't get lost again.'
'Very well, I believe this is the way out of here Darcy.'
Elizabeth grabbed Darcy's arm and quickly when Colonel Fitzwilliam was out of sight, kissed him on the cheek. 'You're cute when you are jealous.' She replied cheekily.
'I am not. Well ok I was. It just hurts to see that you can talk so freely with him and not with me.' Darcy said quietly watching his cousin's back.
'Well that was then and I won't do it again intentionally I promise William.'
'However if you do start talking with me freely don't you think that someone is going to get suspicious.
'Actually I don't care what people think of me. You should know that by now William.' She replied smiling at him meaning her walk to Netherfield.
'Yes I do. Well Miss Bennet,' Darcy said as they were walking inside the house. 'Shall we hear you play some music for us?'
'Indeed sir, only if you would be so kind as to turn the pages for me?' Elizabeth replied her eyes shining bright.
'I would be honored.'
Chapter 4
As Elizabeth was playing, Darcy asked. 'Miss Bennet, why is Mrs. Collins staring at us?'
'Probably because she knows that something is up between us.'
'And how would she know that.'
'Mr. Darcy,' Elizabeth replied laughing. 'She is the one that suggested three days ago to me that you were in love with me.'
'How did she know that?'
'Not sure, I guess she has been watching your behavior. I saw you staring and thought you were finding fault in me. She saw you staring and thought you were in love with me. I guess she was right.' Elizabeth said staring at him momentarily while going back to her music.
'Yes, she was right. For a while now I wasn't finding fault in you and you are a most bewitching young lady Miss Bennet.' Darcy said smiling warmly at her.
'Oh really! Well you sir a definitely a puzzle to me.'
'A puzzle? I can't be all that bad can I Eli-Miss Bennet?'
'No, now that I know you better you aren't but at first you were. I didn't know what to think of you.' Elizabeth replied honestly.
'I guess I started that by insulting you.' Darcy said sadly.
'Yes,' Elizabeth said laughing. 'I thought you were an arrogant stuck-up jerk and I wasn't going to let it affect me.'
'Well I do apologize for that, I didn't mean it especially now.'
'Oh then I am...'
'Darcy! What are you and Miss Bennet so lively discussing over here?' Colonel Fitzwilliam said startling them both.
'Music Colonel Fitzwilliam, just music.' Elizabeth replied smiling at Darcy.
'Well then I suggest that you two go outside and discuss it in privacy.' Colonel Fitzwilliam said smiling secretly at them indicating that he could hear some of their conversation.
'Um yes. Thanks Fitzwilliam.' Darcy said standing, helping Miss Bennet up and turning a deep shade of red.
'No problem. Mrs. Collins would you be so kind as to play for us? It seems that Miss Bennet has lost her glove and has to return into the maze to retrieve it.'
'Yes Colonel, I would be delighted.'
'Fitzwilliam escort Miss Bennet into the maze so she can retrieve her glove.' Lady Catherine said with authority not wanting Darcy to leave.
'Um no I can't aunt. Darcy is the one most familiar with the maze, I got lost just looking for them.' Colonel said laughing at Darcy.
'Very well. But don't be long Darcy.'
'No Aunt I won't. I just will escort Miss Bennet back to the parsonage afterwards.'
'That would be best. Good night Miss Bennet.'
'Good night your ladyship.' Elizabeth said walking out of the room with Darcy.
'What was all that about?' Elizabeth asked once they were alone.
'It meant that Lady Catherine suspects something.' Darcy said with a little anger in his voice.
'Hmm I guessed as much, I knew that someone was going to figure it out. But why oh why did it have to be her.' Elizabeth said looking away. All she knows is that she is beginning to fall in love with Darcy and she didn't want to lose him now.
'Elizabeth look at me.' Darcy said turning around and pulling her into his arms. 'Don't get uneasy my love, no one will ever stop me from seeing you and following my heart. I love you Elizabeth now and forever.
'I care about you too William and I don't want to lose you.'
'But you don't love me?' Darcy said with hurt eyes.
Chapter 5
'Umm, I don't know. I want to be sure and I am not that sure yet. Please William give me time some time. It has only been one day.' Elizabeth said quietly not looking at him.
'I'll give you till the end of time if you need it my dearest one.' Darcy said with tears in his eyes. Elizabeth reached up and brushed them away.
'May I ask you something?'
'Anything.'
'Did your mother want you to marry Anne? Or would she approve of me?' Elizabeth asked quietly.
'Aunt Catherine says so but I don't think that is what my mother would have wanted. She and my father would have wanted me to be happy like them. And yes, they both would have loved you as I do.' Darcy said smiling.
'Ok, well shall we head back to the parsonage?'
'Yes. Elizabeth when do you leave for London?'
'Me and Mariah leave on Friday why?' Elizabeth said looking at him.
'Would you allow my cousin and I to escort you both back to London? You could then meet my sister.'
'Ah yes the famous Miss Darcy. Yes dear William I would like that very much.' Elizabeth said smiling at him. Oh my! Did I just call him 'dear William'? Oh dear I am falling hard for him.
She called me 'dear William' I only dreamed that she would do so. Darcy thought smiling. 'Well here we are good night dearest Elizabeth.' Darcy said smirking at her.
'Good night dearest William.' Elizabeth said just before he kisses her. 'Take care walking back.'
'Thank you, I will thinking of you always helps.' And with that he was gone. Elizabeth just blushed and headed into the sitting room to think. He is so different; he is warm and caring. Not to mention so handsome, I truly think he is the one for me. I am starting to think that is true. Just then Elizabeth heard Charlotte call her name.
'I am in her.'
'Oh Lizzy! There you are, you'll never guess what happen.'
'What do you mean Charlotte?'
'Mr. Darcy, when he got back Lady Catherine demanded to know what was going on between you two.'
'Oh no Charlotte, what did he say?' Elizabeth replied worriedly.
'He told her that he loved you and was planning on marrying you. Lady Catherine threw a fit, she started to belittle you and Mr. Darcy got mad and yelled enough. He then told her he would never marry Anne and his parents would want him to be happy and marry for love. And then he stormed out of Rosings.'
'Stormed out where?'
'That's the thing Lizzy, we don't know. Colonel Fitzwilliam had been looking for him everywhere.'
'Oh no Charlotte!' Elizabeth started to cry. 'Please I hope he isn't hurt. I have to go and help I think that I might know where he is.' Elizabeth said grabbing her jacket and bonnet.
'Lizzy do you think that is wise?'
'Yes I do Charlotte, I have to because I love him!'
Conclusion
Elizabeth then walked out heading for their favorite place. 'Please be there please.' She kept saying over and over again. Finally she saw a figure and recognized it.
'William!' She yelled running over to him.
'Elizabeth!?' Darcy said coming to her opening his arms to hold her tight. 'Dearest what is it?'
'Charlotte told me what happen at Rosings and I was so scared.' Elizabeth said crying.
'Shh! Shh! Dearest I am fine. I just had to clear my head, I came hear because no one else knows about this place but me and you.' Darcy said kissing the top of her head.
'Well don't do that again, I was so afraid that I would loose the man that I had fallen in love with.' Elizabeth said crying.
'It's ok Elizabeth...wait what did you say.' Darcy said not completely sure what she said.
'I said that I am head over heals in love with you sir and I don't want to loose you.'
'You are? You love me?' Darcy asked breathlessly.
'Yes! I am, I didn't realize it until Charlotte said that. It was then that I realized that I loved you and I never want to loose you.' Elizabeth said smiling.
'Oh Elizabeth, you don't know how happy I am to hear you say that.' Darcy said with tears in his eyes. 'Elizabeth, you are my heart and soul, I know yesterday I asked you this but today is different. Will you please marry me and make me the happiest of all men?'
'Yes I will. There is no one else on this earth that I would want to marry that you.' Elizabeth replies smiling at him.
Darcy could then express himself only as a man in love could he kissed her with the hunger and passion he feels for her. When they parted, Darcy said 'lets go to London tonight. I don't want to spend another night at my aunt's. And I want to talk to your father as soon as I can.'
'Ok, I will go back and tell Charlotte. Oh but wait what about Mariah?'
'She could return with us or with Fitzwilliam?'
'I think that she would prefer to return with Fitzwilliam than with us.' Elizabeth said smiling and laughing.
'Then it is settled. Shall we my love?' Darcy said offering her his arm.
'Yes my love we shall.'
With everything prepared Darcy and Elizabeth were off to London. On the way Elizabeth grew tired and was still crying a little, Darcy then took her in his arms and began to quietly sing to her.
I will protect you
For one so small,
'Cause you'll be in my heart
You'll be in my heart'Come stop your crying
'You will always be in my heart Elizabeth.' Darcy said quietly kissing her on the forehead watching her sleep peacefully. He just sat there and watched his beautiful fiancée sleep thinking how things could change in just one day. He then reached down and picked up a letter addressed to 'Miss Elizabeth Bennet'. It was the letter he wrote last night and was planning on giving it to her today. Then leaving for London and forgetting about her. He thanked his luck stars that he didn't; he was glad that he decided to do it in person. He took the letter placed it back in its place and upon arriving in London, burning it immediately. He then wrapped his arms more tightly around Elizabeth and drifted off to sleep.
It will be all right
Just take my hand
And hold it tight
from all around you
I will be here
Don't you cry
you seem so strong
My arms will hold you,
keep you safe and warm
This bond between us
can't be broken
I will be here
Don't you cry
Yes, you'll be in my heart
From this day on
Now and forever more
No matter what they say
You'll be here
in my heart always
Always*'
The End
*--'You'll Be In My Heart' Tarzan Soundtrack This is the short version, sang by both Phil Collins and Glenn Close. I was listening to it and thought it appropriate for this story.
Volume 2, Part 1
'Elizabeth love we're here. Wake up dearest,' Darcy said kissing her.
'Where's here?' Elizabeth replied sleepily.
'London. Well my town house.' Darcy said laughing.
'Oh, why are we here?'
'Elizabeth it's in the middle of the night. We will go to your Aunt and Uncle's house in the morning. Besides this gives you the perfect opportunity to meet my sister.'
'Ok. I just want to go back to sleep.'
'Then let's go in.' Darcy said escorting his fiancée into the house.
'Master Darcy, you are home.'
'Good evening Mrs. Scott, sorry about the hour. Mrs. Scott allow me to present my fiancée Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth this is my housekeeper Mrs. Scott, she oversees everything here at the London house.'
'Please to meet you Mrs. Scott.'
'Same to you Miss Bennet, so Fitzwilliam this is the reason why you have been moody lately. I know that it was a lady, but not one as handsome as she.'
Darcy blushed and replied, 'Yes Mrs. Scott. She is the one, I hope that you will welcome her.'
'Most certainly if she makes you this happy, I will be honored to know her. I will show the miss to her room.' Mrs. Scott said motioning for Elizabeth to follow her.
'Thank you but that is not necessary, I will show her to her room myself. You are probably wanting to go back to sleep.' Darcy replied.
'Yes sir, good night master, good night miss.'
'Good night Mrs. Scott.' Elizabeth replied laughing. When she left, Elizabeth looked at Darcy and said, 'I like her. She sounds like she knows you a little to well Fitzwilliam.'
'Yes, her and Mrs. Reynolds both. She and Mrs. Reynolds, my housekeeper at Pemberley, are sisters. So they have both known me since I was four.' Darcy said smiling.
'Oh the stories I could hear about you then growing up.' Elizabeth replied smiling mischievously.
'Yes, well they have plenty of them. And now Miss Bennet, I will show you to your room.'
---
The next morning, Darcy took Elizabeth into the parlor where a tall blond lady sat.
'Elizabeth allow me to introduce my sister, Georgiana Darcy. Georgie this is Miss Elizabeth Bennet, my fiancée.'
'How do you do Miss Darcy? William has told me plenty about you.' Elizabeth said walking over to the girl.
'And I about you.' Georgiana replied quietly.
Elizabeth was easily able to determine that she was just like her brother, very shy. 'I understand that you like to play music and sing very well.'
'Not very well but I do love to play. William says that you play lovely. Would you care to play for us now?'
'Ok, I see that your brother has been spreading falseness about me again.' Elizabeth said smirking at Darcy.
'Oh no! He couldn't. William here doesn't tell anything but the truth.' Georgiana said quickly to defend her brother.
'She's teasing Georgie that is one thing that I love about her. She loves to spread mischief.' Darcy said laughing.
'Now Mr. Darcy please don't tell her everything, you might frighten her.' Elizabeth said sitting down at the piano looking at the different sheets of music.
'Allow me to choose on dearest.'
'Most certainly.' Elizabeth said smiling at Darcy. She then started to play while Georgiana turned the pages and William sat back to watch them with a smile on his face.
'Thank you Miss Bennet.'
'For what Miss Darcy? And please call me Elizabeth or Lizzy for we are to be sisters.'
'Georgiana or Georgie then. For bringing back my dearly loved brother. I haven't seen him this happy in so long.' Georgiana said smiling at her warmly.
'You are most welcome, I love your brother and I hope we will become friends.'
'Better than that Elizabeth, we will be sisters and I have wanted one for some time now.' After some time of playing, laughing, and talking, Mrs. Scott entered.
'Miss Bingley sir.'
Volume 2, Part 2
'Thank you Mrs. Scott. Show her in.'
'I wonder why she is here.' Elizabeth said, quietly staying in the background.
'Mr. Darcy. I heard that you were back in town. How was your trip? Miss Bingley said walking over to him. 'And dear Georgiana, hello.'
'My trip was most enjoyable Miss Bingley, thank you.' Mr. Darcy said. 'And how are you doing today?'
'Well I am most displease with you sir. My brother received a letter from you informing him that Miss Jane Bennet was in town. How could you do that? I thought that we agreed that she was no good for him.' Miss Bingley concluded.
'Yes maybe at the time I thought so. But someone dear to me told me that I was wrong. I was informed that Miss Bennet does love Bingley. So I congratulate him on his happiness.' Darcy said with a hint of sadness.
'Someone dear to you told you? And who might that person be?' Miss Bingley replied shocked.
'Miss Bingley.' Georgiana finally said. 'I believe that you know our guest.' She said motioning to Elizabeth.
'Hello Miss Bingley, so good to see you again. I trust your brother is well.' Elizabeth said standing up.
'Eliza Bennet? Is that who you mean Mr. Darcy? Why is she here?' Miss Bingley said glaring at her nemesis.
'Yes Miss Bingley she is. She was at Kent, visiting her friend, Mrs. Collins, former Lucas. I decided to return to London, and she returned with me to see her sister and to meet my sister.' Mr. Darcy said walking over to her.
'Oh, well I hope that you are well Eliza and how is that dear family of yours?' Miss Bingley said smirking.
'They are well I guess. I haven't spoke with them in a few months, but thank you for asking about them Miss Bingley. Well Mr. Darcy I really should be getting to my Uncle's house. It is getting late in the afternoon.' Elizabeth said looking up at her beloved gentleman.
'Yes of course my dear. Allow me to take you there? Was there anything else Miss Bingley?' Darcy said looking at the now gaping Miss Bingley.
'No, no sir. I guess that I will be going as well. Excuse me all.' Miss Bingley said walking quickly out of the room.
When the door closed, Elizabeth, Darcy and Georgiana all started to laugh. 'Oh dear, I thought that she was going to explode when she saw you Lizzy and realized that you were the dear one to William.' Georgiana said still giggling.
'I know. Well wait till she finds out that me and your brother is engaged, although I think that she might already know from the way you spoke to me sir.' Elizabeth said walking over to Darcy with an angry expression on her face. 'I should be mad at you William, I was about to yell at you however, your reply redeemed yourself sir.'
'Yes that is what she and her sister agreed to. I did at the time but thanks to a lovely young lady I was told else wise.' Darcy said grabbing her around the waist.
'Told? More like scolded. I am surprised that you don't hate me for what I said to you that night.' Elizabeth said looking at him.
'What did you say Lizzy?'
'Umm just some things that were true.' Darcy said quietly.
'Yes at the time dear but easily forgivable. I love you William.' Elizabeth said hugging him tightly.
'And I love you dearest Elizabeth.' Darcy said placing a kiss on her forehead. 'And you, Georgie come here.' Darcy said opening his arm to allow Georgiana in the circle of love as well.
Part 3
'Excuse me sir, Mr. Bingley and Miss Jane Bennet are here.' Mrs. Scott said laughing at the scene before her.
'Jane? My sister is here?' Elizabeth said both surprised and excited.
'Show them in.' Darcy said letting go of his fiancée and sister.
'Jane what are you doing here?' Elizabeth said walking over to embrace her sister.
'Caroline came back from here most upset and told me some shocking things Darcy.' Bingley said walking over to Darcy.
'Like what Bingley?' Darcy said.
'That you and Miss Elizabeth are intimate.' Bingley said quietly, pulling Darcy aside to tell him.
'What?'
'She said that Miss Elizabeth was here for the night and you called her dear.'
'Yes she was here for the night because we got in late from Kent last night and I called her dear because I am going to marry her. All I have to do is ask her father as soon as possible.' Darcy said looking at Elizabeth lovingly.
'Well then Darcy it seems that we are to be brothers, for I asked Jane to marry me.'
'Congratulations Bingley!'
'William what is going on?' Elizabeth asked watching them curiously.
'It seems that me and Bingley are to be brothers.' Darcy said smiling at her.
'Oh my goodness Jane. Congratulations.' Elizabeth said hugging her.
'You mean that you and Mr. Darcy are to be married as well. Then what Caroline said is true. Elizabeth may I speak to you in private.' Jane said looking at her sister.
'Um sure. But first Jane this is Georgiana Darcy, William's sister. Georgie this is my dearest sister, Jane.'
'Please to meet you Miss Bennet, let me show you to the library where you can talk in private.' Georgiana said, showing them to the library.
'Thank you Miss Darcy.' After the door closed, 'now Lizzy. Tell me the truth, what is going on with you and Mr. Darcy.'
'What is going on? I don't understand Jane. I am engaged to a man that I love completely. That is what is going on.'
'From what Caroline implied, she made it seem like you were his mistress.' Jane said sitting down on the couch.
'WHAT?!' Elizabeth shouted with shock and anger.
Part 4
'By what right does she have to say that? No Jane how could you think that. I love William, but I won't have any relations with him till we are married. Tell me Jane who else thinks this?'
'Her sister, Mrs. Hurst and a few of the staff. They found out that Mr. Darcy returned to London late last night with a lady and that she stayed her in his house.
'Oh no! Jane is this getting spread all over. Oh dear! What are we going to do?' Elizabeth said sitting down, on the verge of crying.
'We are going to Gretna and elope that is what we are going to do, Elizabeth.' Darcy said coming into the room.
'No William we cannot do that.' Elizabeth said getting up and walking over to his open arms, and burying her head in his arms.
'That is the only way, Elizabeth. I don't want to but the more we wait the more the rumor will likely to get out of control.' Darcy said looking at her in the eyes.
'He is right Miss Elizabeth. The best thing to do is to elope, me and Jane will go with you both.' Bingley said walking into the room.
'Why? Are you going to elope as well Bingley?'
'No Darcy. We are going to wait, but you two need chaperones, for this little adventure.' Bingley said smiling at them.
'Well Elizabeth?' Darcy said looking at her with a pleading look in his brown eyes.
Part 5
'Ok, when do we leave?' Elizabeth said smiling at him, leaving her head on his shoulder.
'Tonight. Will that be ok with you and Miss Bennet, Bingley?' Darcy said looking at his friend.
'Yes. What about Georgie?'
'I will go. I am not missing my brother's wedding for anything.' Georgiana said finally speaking up.
'Ok, then let us all get ready to leave within the hour. Now if you all could excuse me and Elizabeth for a few minutes.'
'Sure William, come Bingley, Miss Bennet, let's go into the music room and wait for them.' Georgiana said escorted them out.
'Are you sure you are ok with this my love?' Darcy said pulling her to the window seat.
'Yes the more I think about it the more I agree with it. It will be better this way for the both of us, there won't be my mother fussing over every detail. I never wanted a huge wedding any ways, just a quiet ceremony with the man that I love.' Elizabeth said smiling at him and kissing him on the lips. As the kisses became more and more passionate, Darcy broke away gasping and slightly moving away from Elizabeth.
'Well, I am glad that we are getting married tonight. Because after tonight no one or nothing is going to keep me from expressing to you how much that I adore and love you.'
Elizabeth blushed, and replied. ' I can hardly wait till I am your wife sir, that I can spend everyday for the rest of my life with you. However, shall we return to the others before those rumors aren't rumors anymore.'
'Yes dearest.' Darcy replied laughing and holding his arm out for her. In about an hours time they were all ready and on there way to Gretna Green. Bingley, Jane and Mrs. Annesley were in one carriage. While Darcy, Elizabeth and Georgiana were in the other carriage. Darcy thought that it was right that Mrs. Annesley come to keep the numbers safe as well as not having Jane and Bingley alone in a carriage. They don't need anymore rumors on this trip.
Part 6
They ceremony was short but very romantic. The only people that were there, were the ones that meant the most to Elizabeth and Darcy. Elizabeth was a little disappointed that her father couldn't be there, but with Jane there she was glad that at least on of her family members were there. As for Darcy, the only ones that matter to him were there, Elizabeth and Georgiana. The pastor was thinking that as many people as he marries, these two really are getting married for the right reason. That is for love and nothing else matters to them.
It wasn't until early in the morning that Georgiana, Mrs. Annesley, Jane, Bingley and Mr. and Mrs. Darcy returned to London. Jane remained at the Darcys with Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley, while Bingley returned home. Jane already sent a letter to the Gardiner's telling them what was going on and not to worry that all will be explained in the morning and, most importantly do not to let their parents know yet.
'Well good night dearest Jane.' Elizabeth Darcy said escorting her sister to the room that she occupied the night before.
'Good night Lizzy, and don't worry all will be fine.' Jane said quietly and then looking at her new brother. 'Good night William, I am glad that you are my brother.'
'Thank you Miss Ben-- I mean Jane. Good night.' Darcy said smiling warmly at her, then turning to his wife. 'Well Mrs. Darcy shall we?' Darcy said offering her his arm.
'Yes.' Elizabeth said shyly.
Elizabeth sat at her vanity table in her new room, watching herself in the mirror and waiting for her husband to come in. Just then there was a slight knock at the door. 'Come in,' Elizabeth said quietly and standing up to turn around.
'You look wonderful Mrs. Darcy,' Darcy said walking over to where she stood. 'Don't worry Elizabeth, there is no need to be afraid. I love you and would do nothing to hurt you.'
'I know Fitzwilliam, I love you and I want to be with you.' Elizabeth said smiling at him. Darcy then bent down and started to kiss her slowly and sweetly. And gently sweeping her off her feet, Darcy carried his wife to their bed. And all during the night they became one. In body, mind and soul, they both found a love that was rare and special and they both knew that they found their first and last love. Just as the sun was rising Mr. and Mrs. Darcy fell asleep, entwined together and remaining thus until they awoke in the morning.
'Good morning Mrs. Darcy,' Darcy said smiling at his less than twenty-four hour wife.
'Good morning Mr. Darcy.' Elizabeth Darcy replied shyly, glancing up at him from her position on his chest.
'I love you Elizabeth.' Darcy said bending down to kiss her again.
'And I love you my husband.' Elizabeth said in between his kisses. 'Now and forever, I will love you forever.'
A little later on that morning the newlyweds went downstairs to visit with their sisters, only to find that no one was there. Mrs. Scott told them that Jane and Georgiana were not up yet. So they both went into the music room and Elizabeth found a song to sing to her husband.
'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 heartFrom this moment life has begun
From this moment you are the one
Right beside you is where I belong
From this moment onFrom 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 onI 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 youFrom 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 onYou'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
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. *'
'That was beautiful my love, and so are you.' Darcy said quietly and kissing her with more passion that he thought possible. When the passion became too intense Darcy picked up his wonderful wife and carried her up to their bedroom, where that sweet promise she sang was sealed.
*'From This Moment On' by Shania Twain.
The End? For now.