Return of the Heart

By Sania

Jump to new as of June 17, 2000
Jump to new as of June 22, 2000
Jump to new as of June 25, 2000

I

Posted on Thursday, 8 June 2000, at 2 : 03 p.m.

Elizabeth Bennet stood and smoothed her tan knee length skirt. With a fitted red shirt and strappy red sandals she looked...well...very un-Elizabeth, but also extraordinarily sophisticated. Her glossy dark curls had been pulled away from face by a pair of sunglasses that she wished were on her face. 'Oh I wish I hadn't let Mamma talk me into getting dressed up' she surveyed her surroundings, 'and to go on a flight at that. Yet, I do admit the people in Boston do dress quite stylishly; well, at least compared to Tanner.' Elizabeth was from a small town in Vermont, she had gone to Grinell University on full scholarship, a wonderful school in the middle of nowhere, so technically this was her first time in the big city. 'Well, I have been here once before'...and her mind drifted back to that event.

'A thirteen-year old girl shouldn't be afraid to ride on an airplane,' thought Lizzy angrily to herself. But it was also the first time she had ever left her parents, 'I went to camp last summer, and that's where I met Georgie. But that was different because Jane was with me. And now I'm by myself in this huge airport and that man keeps looking at my bag and I wish Georgie would show up and I'm really more scared than I was in the plane.' Suddenly, as if the crowds parted she saw a young man that could be no one but Georgie's brother Will. She had seen so many pictures of him at camp, and now he was standing before her. Lizzy abandoned her normal reserve; so overcome with relief at seeing someone she new, she ran and hugged young William Darcy. She pulled away shyly, 'Oh I'm sorry...you are Will aren't you...you look so much like Georgie...I was a little scared at being here, there are so many people.' As she looked up at him with those big, trusting, shining eyes he was overcome with remorse for being late, well at least as overcome with remorse as a fifteen year old boy could be. He smiled and led her to their limo, 'Georgie's a little sick so Mama sent me to the airport to get you.' He liked this little girl, she wasn't as annoying as the rest of Georgie's snobby school friends or like Charles sister...shudder...Caroline. The three of them became great friends that winter break, Lizzy added a wonderful dynamic to the trio- she was lively and made Will appreciate Georgie as a friend and not just a little sister. Lizzy and William vowed to write regularly, and write they did every day for a week or two after she left and then gradually died down to a letter once a month and then not at all. Lizzy and Georgie saw each other at camp every summer during high school then spent all their summers together traveling during college. Now they were going to go to school together at Harvard Medical School.

Suddenly, there he was again, William Darcy. Tall, dark curly hair, those beautiful eyes, he was gorgeous. She felt an urge to have a repeat performance and run into his arms 'Stop it Lizzy, you aren't 13 and he certainly isn't fifteen anymore.'

Will Darcy was talking to a gorgeous blond he had met at some party, then as if the crowds parted he saw her. 'Well, she certainly is all grown up.' Lizzy was a stunner, a fact that hadn't gone unnoticed by William Darcy.

"Hello Liz, you look beautiful." He said as he gave her a look of pure admiration, and brought her hand up to his lips.

"Hi Will, how are you...where's my best friend" she said looking around for Georgianna.

"She's at home, I thought I'd come pick you up, take you for a spin around the town in the porshe."

"Oh," this was not the sweet, down to earth Will Lizzy had left behind. "Don't you have to get up early tomorrow and go to work."

At this he laughed, "there is no getting up early when your dad owns the company" he said flashing his bright smile.

"Oh," This is not the studious, hardworking Will I know!

"So you're starting Harvard, huh? I had some great times there."

"You got your MBA there right?"

"Oh, yeah the school is really good too" he said winking.

"Oh" This is NOT my Will!

Georgianna Darcy sat on her bed, waiting patiently for her brother and her friend. Georgie loved her brother, he was the best a girl could ask for...but he was...well Lizzy would say he was a bit of a rake! Their father was still in control of the business and didn't really need Will to do much. So Will, amused himself with other pursuits, and his fiancée', well Georgie had hoped that Caroline would be a calming influence on Will, but she just encouraged his wildness. The door flew upon downstairs, Georgianna ran out of her room, through the hall, down the stairs and into the arms of her dearest friend.

"Oh Georgie, I've missed you so much"

"Lizzy I'm so happy we're going to school together."

"It's going to be wonderful" And with that the two girls chatted up a veritable storm while Will looked on a little bemused. It was rather unusual for beautiful women to ignore him, and he was perturbed.

"Liz, Georgie...would you two lovely ladies like to accompany me out tonight."

"I'd like to Will, but unlike some people I have to get up early tomorrow" said Lizzy her eyes sparkling, "but maybe on the weekend." With that the two turned and ran up the stairs to show Lizzy her room.

II

Posted on Friday, 9 June 2000, at 12 : 16 p.m.

Two Weeks Later...

"Uuggh...do you really have to have so many CD's, Georgie, and is it necessary that we move them all to our apartment that is only 15 minutes away?" grumbled Lizzy as she hoisted a very large box from Georgianna's room.

Georgie giggled, "Yes and Yes, really Lizzy I had no idea you could be so grumpy when it came to moving."

Lizzy turned and flashed her friend a smile, "Sorry bud, I just had no idea that moving was such a pain in the..."

"Hello!!! I said HELLO!!!" cried a rather whiny voice from below.

"Arggggh! Speaking of a pain in the..."

"Is anyone there, it's me Caroline" said a very beautiful young woman as she climbed up the steps. "Oh, Georgianna...how are you my dear." She said purring. "Oh, this must be your little friend, Elisa, you're Janie's sister aren't you." referring to Jane, Elizabeth's sister and her brother's fiance.

"Elizabeth."

"So what are you two up to" as she waved towards a room full of boxes, packing supplies, and books.

"I'm running away to join the circus Caroline" said Georgianna with a straight face, "Elisa here is helping me" pointing to her friend who was having a hard time stifling a laugh.

"Where is my charming little Willy-poo." At this Elizabeth almost spit up the water she was drinking.

"If you're referring to my brother, I think he's by the moving van loading in some stuff."

"Don't you have people who do that for you, I'm mean it's so messy" then looking at Lizzy's tattered jeans and the bandana tying back her hair "don't you agree Elisa"

"Elizabeth"

"I'm off to find your brother, bye Georgianna, it was charming meeting you Elisa"

"Elizabeth" cried Lizzy after she left.

"Oooh, she drives me crazy, I don't know what he sees in her!" cried Georgie after Caroline exited the room.

"Well, she is really pretty...I think they're perfect for each other"

"Are you serious?" cried Georgie

"I'm serious, if they aren't the perfect couple then my name's not Elisa Bennet" she cried as they both burst into laughter.

"Ok, ok now I'm serious, what happened to Will, I mean he is dating Caroline, partying all night, and obviously not taking his life seriously at all."

"Oh, Lizzy I know. He is a great brother and a wonderful person but, I don't know... he just got caught up in the idea of being born to wealth and privilege and uses it as an excuse to not do anything with his life. My father lost his parents when he was 20 and had to take over the business, he says he wants Will to enjoy his youth before he has to endure a similar fate. But the thing is, I don't think Will likes what he's doing, the whole party scene, I mean he doesn't even drink. I think he just doesn't know what he wants."

"It's just that...he is so altered...and he..."

"What"

"He just had so much potential for greatness"

Lizzy looked at the clock next to her bed, it's almost midnight, I have to be up at 6 tomorrow" she thought as she punched her pillow. For the life of her she could not get to sleep. Maybe, I just need some hot tea, that should get me to sleep rather quickly. She crawled out of bed and tied her robe around her. Permberley, the Darcy estate, was so huge; but Lizzy was slowly getting used to it. She padded down to the kitchen and put on a pot of water.

"What are you still doing up kiddo" said a voice from behind her. Lizzy jumped a good six inches straight up in the air.

"Fitwilliam Darcy the sixth, have you scared me half to death" cried Lizzy as she turned to face Will. He was dressed in gray tailored slacks and a light blue shirt open at the collar, looking quite debonair. "Are you just getting in, it's a weeknight." She cried. "I sound a great deal too much like my mother don't I" she said with a smile.

"Entirely too much" for some reason Will Darcy always felt very comfortable with Lizzy.

"Would you like some tea"

"Sure, why not...Elisa" to which he received a slap with a potholder "Caroline told me you two met earlier on"

"Yes, she is quite...quite...pretty."

He smiled at her, "Yes, Caroline is Caroline" he said not a little wistfully.

"How did you two meet?" as she handed him a large cup of tea and they both moved to the sofa in the living room.

"It's not really the most romantic story..."

"Come on Will, stop being such a drip" as she placed her hand on his arm.

"Well, you know my friends Henry Crawford and John Willoughby right," Lizzy nodded silently I wish I didn't those slackers, no wonder you've gotten so off-track Will. "Well, John and Henry had both dated her and she was a friend of the family so I knew her quite well, we went to this party and her boyfriend got drunk, and she asked me to drive her home."

"And..."

"And what?

"So you fell in love on the drive home, you rescued her from a doomed relationship..."

"No, she just asked me out; I felt kind of bad for her after that scene at the party, so I said yes."

"Oh"

"What does that mean, 'Oh' do you disapprove Lady Lizzy?" using the nickname she had hated as a child.

"Would it matter if I did?" she asked with a sigh.

"NO" he said a little miffed, "Caroline and I are VERY happy I'll have you know" liar

"Then I am happy for you" she said smiling at him so sweetly it made his heart soften towards her.

"What have you been up to?"

"Well, if you're talking about relationships then not much really, school kept me quite busy...and I think it will continue to do so for quite sometime."

"How can you bear it?"

"A better question is how could bear to be without it? You see Will, medicine is one of the few things in my life that I'm passionate about." Her face lighting up as she spoke, "there is so much for me to learn, and so much I can do...medicine makes me look forward to tomorrow. It may put a damper on my social calendar, but it keeps me going."

"That must be wonderful...to be so passionate about something."

"Don't you feel passionately about anything?"
"I do love the company, and I adore my parents and Georgie...but Lizzy I don't feel as if I'm needed for anything, that I have a purpose...sometimes I feel like the world would just keep on turning without me."

"Well it would, silly," pushing him playfully.

"You know what I mean...I just don't know what to do"

"You know Will, you could start at home, or rather at work; your father seems so much older and more tired than the last time I saw him...his work is taking a lot out of him. I think that it's time you started taking an active role in the business. If you're waiting for him to ask for your help, you'll wait forever. Your dad's just as bull-headed as you are."

"Maybe you're right."

"I know I'm right..." to which she received a pillow in the face. "You want to play rough eh?" she said as she shoved a pillow against his chest.

"Bring it on..." soon they were having an all out, no holds bar pillow fight; one that melted away all the reserve that remained between them and brought them back to the friendship they formed so many years ago.

After that they chatted comfortably about everything from opera to soap operas to school to foreign affairs. Lizzy soon found Will's shoulder better suited to her needs than the down pillow in her room and was fast asleep an hour later. Will nodded off for a bit as well, when he woke, Lizzy had wrapped her arms about his waist and her head was lying comfortably on his chest. Her head was turned up slightly so he could see her rosy lips slightly parted in sleep. The urge to kiss her overwhelmed him grab a hold of yourself Darcy, have you forgotten about Caroline. Besides, what would an angel like her want with a rake like you. Don't ruin the best thing you got going. He kissed her forehead, "Lizzy wake up, let's get you to your room"

"I don wanna" came her muffled reply as she snuggled closer onto his chest. He groaned softly, she was killing him.

"Come on Lizzy" he said as he lifted her up to her feet and led her to her bedroom. He pulled back her covers and helped her into bed. Yet, she kept her arms locked about his neck, pulling him towards her in her sleep. It was all that Will could do to NOT disengage himself. Yet, he did slowly undo her fingers kissing them as he placed her hands by her pillow. He got up and vowed to better guard himself and his emotions in the future.

It slowly became an unspoken ritual, where Will would join Lizzy in the kitchen for tea at midnight. Will had slowly been cutting back on his partying and delving deeper into his work. They shared stories and dreams and more often than not, didn't make it back to bed before falling asleep. One night, Will pulled out an envelope and handed it to her.

"What's this," she said looking at him questioningly.

"Well, Caroline's out of town visiting her sister this weekend..."

"When the cat's away the mice will play"

"Exactly" then looking at the envelope in her hand, "like I was saying...I got these as kind of a send-off since your orientation starts on Monday."

Lizzy opened the envelope, "4 tickets to the 'Marriage of Figaro' she said in almost a whisper. "Oh Will, how did you know this was my favorite opera" she said as she threw her arms around him careful, Lizzy girl, he is an engaged man...and you're just his little sister's friend "Who's the fourth ticket for?"

"Oh, one of my friends from Harvard, Richard Farnsworth, is visiting from New York on business."

"Georgie is going to be so thrilled." She said as she hugged his arm again, "I can hardly wait."

III

Posted on Sunday, 11 June 2000, at 1 : 19 a.m.

Just another tidbit about my life, the dress that Lizzy is wearing is one that I actually got for a gift, and is one of my dearest possessions.

"Lizzy what am I going to wear?" wailed Georgianna as she flopped onto the bed.

"Georgie, you're usually a lot less concerned about evening wear than this" said Lizzy as she sorted through the closets at their new apartment.

"I know...let's go buy something, I mean it's opening night...you're expected to look smashing."

"It's opening night?!...How did Will land tickets?"

"Oh, Darcy Industries is a sponsor, so we can always get tickets if we want"

"Oh, well then...it is our solemn duty to look ravishing tonight...I wouldn't want to discredit your family after all" replied Elizabeth with a flourish.

With that the two of them spirited of to the boutiques nearby. Yet, an hour later, and two sore pairs of feet later they still had nothing to show for their efforts.

"Aaaaaaaargh! Why can't I find a simple dress," said Lizzy. I know why, I haven't found anything stunning enough for Will

"Don't despair! I think I know one more place, it's where I got my prom dress from, I hope it's still around." Said Georgie as she led a rather tired and reluctant Lizzy to a tiny shop.

As they entered they were immediately struck by the smell of roses and lavender, with exquisite attention to detail the shop was lovely. "May I help you," asked a petite older woman.

"Yes, we're looking for two gowns for the opera." Replied Georgie.

"Well, let's see what we can do." The girls were soon whisked away to different dressing rooms and handed gown after gown. A good thirty minutes later, Lizzy heard Georgie squeel with joy,

"Lizzy, I think I've found it!"

"Come out and show me fool" she said to Georgie. Georgie exited her room in a confection of light pink silk and pearls with a high waist that complimented her figure and her coloring. "Georgie, you look amazing. Pack up that gown, you're done."

"Ok, now have you seen anything you like"

"Well, there is one more that I haven't tried on yet..."

"Then get in there and try it on, we don't have all day." And ducked as Lizzy threw a hanger at her head. Lizzy slipped into the gown, it was golden chiffon with short sheer sleeves, yet the entire dress was covered with tiny crystals, so it appeared as if she was wearing only these diamonds. Georgie approved the dress, "I think my brother is going to get his socks knocked off" to which she got another hanger launched at her.

The girls hurried home and occupied themselves in prepping for the event, an hour or so later, after the massacre of some perfectly good bobby pins, the wantoned destruction of several facial tissues, and the blatant disregard of several pairs of pantyhose our heroines were dressed and ready. As if on cue, the doorbell rang. Georgie ran and opened the door to see her brother standing there in his tuxedo.

"Georgianna Darcy, you are a vision. I've never seen this before have I?"

"No, it's new," she said smiling shyly, "do you like it?"

"You look amazing" he said as he fingered one of her blond curls that had been gathered on the top of her head quite beautifully.

"Where is Lizzy?"

"Lizzy is right here" said Lizzy as she entered. Georgie noticed that her brother wasn't speaking...in fact he wasn't even breathing.

"Will," his sister whispered poking him in the chest. Yet, Will was a lost man, he stared before him at what could only be a goddess. Her long dark curls were unbound, adorned only by small crystals that clung to her hair. Her dress shimmered and shone in the light; she came towards him with her arms out and took his hands in hers.

"You look quite handsome," she said. now that's an understatement

"Look, who's talking" he replied, his voice a little hoarse.

"Where is your guest," she said searching to change the topic as she blushed furiously.

"He's waiting by the limo, walking up the steps is rather taxing for him due to an old army injury."

The three of them walked out to the car. Where they were met by an extraordinarily handsome young man with sandy curls and emerald green eyes.

"May I present Richard Farnsworth the third" he said as the young man bowed a little at the waist.

"It's not everyday that I meet two such stunning young women" replied Richard in a beautiful English accent.

"You remember my sister Georgie?"

"No, this cannot be the little Georgie I left behind?" he said as he kissed her hand, it was Georgie's turn to blush. "You have become quite a beautiful young woman."

"And...this is Ms. Elizabeth Bennet."

"I'm charmed Ms. Bennet" as a look of pure admiration crossed his face.

"Please...call me Elizabeth."

"Shall we" said Will as he escorted them to the car. Happy chatter filled the air as the four young people arrived at the opera hall. Richard exited the automobile first, and handed out Georgie, who sat on the outside. This left Will to escort Lizzy, which he did with no small amount of pleasure. The touch of her hand on his arm sent tingles down his spine, her scent intoxicated him. Lizzy was faring no better, for his proximity was rather unnerving. The fluttering of heart she attributed merely to seeing her favorite opera being performed at last. The look of joy that had found it's way to Lizzy's face was repayment enough for Will, who had to manuever quite a bit to procure prime seating for the performance.

"Are you looking forward to the performance?" he asked of course she is stupid, this is her favorite opera

She smiled at his anxiety, she had never seem him nervous before and it became him rather well... "Yes, I can hardly wait, I've heard that the male lead soprano is just magnificent."

"Will?"

"Yes Lizzy."

"Thank you for tonight" she said, her eyes sparkling. For a look like that Will would have easily gotten her every seat in the house.

"Don't thank me, I do believe I'm deriving more pleasure from seeing you happy than you will from actually seeing the opera." He said jovially.

"I doubt that" she said as she sat down between Richard and Will.

Richard, who had been in discussion with Georgianna, who sat at his left, turned to Lizzy and gave her a big smile. "Georgianna was just telling me about Med school, Congratulations; HMS is exceedingly difficult to be admitted to."

Lizzy colored prettily, "Thank you. I didn't think I'd be able to get. It seems very much like a happy dream to finally be here."

"I think that dream will turn to nightmare once exams start Lizzy" smiled Georgianna

"Yes, I'm sure they will. But before you now it, we'll be physicians"

"Do you know what you want to specialize in?" asked Richard.

"I'm thinking of pediatric oncology. I know it's a difficult field, but I figure it should be entered into by someone who truly loves children. And I do adore kids."

"Tell them how many kids you want to have Lizzy" said Georgianna.

Lizzy shot her a withering look, "Georgie, I'm not really sure..."

"How many" asked Richard proddingly,

"Oh, I don't know, no more than 7 and surely no less than four." Looking at their stunned expression, "What, I come from a family with 5 sisters, Ok." Said she as they burst out with laughter.

"What do you do Richard" she asked

"He owns Farnsworth Industries" replied Will.

"You know that Will and I met during Harvard, well my father passed away my senior year" as he was interrupted by the Lizzy's condolences, "Yes, it was really quite difficult. I don't think I would even graduated had it not been for Will, short of taking the exams for me this bloke managed everything." Richard said with a smile. Lizzy gave Will's arm a small squeeze, who was immediately happy for bringing along Richard.

The opera began and Lizzy was swept away by the music, the costumes, and the decor. The looks of sheer delight on her face were appreciated by two sets of eyes. For Richard was not a little enamored by the lovely young woman sitting next to him. Richard would often lean over and whisper in her ear some tidbit of knowledge that would cause her to furrow her brows in costernation or chuckle softly much to his delight. Will was content to merely stare at Lizzy throughout the performance and wonder why Caroline never expressed such delight in anything, well anything except orange clothing of course. The exchange between Richard and Lizzy did not go unnoticed by one member of the audience that night, and for once Georgianna envied Lizzy her open manners and rued her own shy temperament.

The two young women rose to go to the powder room during the intermission. As soon as they were out of hearing range Richard turned to Will. "I say Darcy...why did you not tell me that there was such a stunning woman amongst your acquaintance. Elizabeth Bennet is perfectly ravishing!"

Will was stunned, Richard enamored of Lizzy, my Lizzy he swallowed and slowly asked, "You like Elizabeth Bennet?"

"Will, I had no idea you were so in love with Caroline. I mean you must be if you can't see a gem like Elizabeth sitting right beneath your nose. Do you mind if we include them in our plans for the rest of the week, I believe that I should very much like to be better acquainted with her."

Will felt something inside of him wither Richard is the perfect man for Lizzy, responsible, wonderful...he'll make her happy "I wouldn't want to stand in your way of happiness Richard."

"Wonderful...I am..." he was about to continue when the ladies returned to their seats. The opera resumed; Will still turned periodically to look at Lizzy, yet this time it was with a greater sadness and longing. He cared for this idealistic, vivacious young woman and above all he longed to see her happy. Richard was a man who could do just that.

The opera ended and Will took Lizzy's arm to escort her out. Her eyes shone in happiness and she looked upon him with no little warmth. "Did it live up to your expectations?" Lizzy merely shook her head in a silent yes. They continued to talk about their favorite scenes and arias until the limo arrived. They rode to Richard's hotel for coffee. Once settled in they chatted amiably with Richard almost monopolizing Lizzy. After finishing and bidding their adieus and promising to meet on the morrow, Will took the two young women home. Georgianna kissed her brother good night and immediately went to her room, leaving Lizzy and Will facing each other in the doorway of the apartment.

"Well, goodnight Lizzy, see you tomorrow" said Will straining to keep his voice light and cheerful.

"Will?"

"Yes Lizzy?"

"I had no idea anything could be so beautiful"

As he looked at her intently he silently thought, neither did I "I'm glad you liked the opera"

"Not just the opera Will, the whole night...it was magical...and I owe it all to you." And she leaned over and kissed him lightly on the cheek "Goodnight Will"

"Goodnight Lizzy" and he turned and left, longing to stay but not trusting himself in such a situation.

Thus, a night at the opera although beautiful and memorable was a dangerous thing indeed. Georgianna's grew cooler after that night. Will wished Caroline was half so satisfactory as Lizzy, and Richard began building castles that had no foundation.

IV

Posted on Monday, 12 June 2000, at 12 : 53 a.m.

Richard folded his credit card into the bill fold and handed it to the waiter, he looked about his friends, "Well, dinner was lovely and the evening is still far too young to abandon such beautiful ladies, are there any suggestions for any other type of entertainment?" The group looked about for a moment searching for something to do.

Finally Lizzy looked up and said as her eyes sparkled, "How about bowling?" Caroline, who had come in town early rather dejected from missing her little willy-poo and had spent the last consecutive few hours mooning over Richard, looked up.

"You mean wear shoes that other people have put their feet in?" she said with a small shriek.

"Why yes Caroline, it's just like shopping for shoes except know you can wear socks." Replied Lizzy sweetly.

"Wonderful, that sounds like jolly good fun," said Richard, although had Lizzy suggested deep sea diving in shark infested waters he would have accompanied her there also with the same silly grin pasted on his face. "Although I must confess I don't know how they don't go for that much in England and Will never took me while I was here."

Lizzy turned to her silent friend across the table, "I'm sure Georgianna will be happy to show you how, I taught her a few years ago and now she's far better than I ever was." Georgianna gave Lizzy a happy smile. Lizzy looked from Georgianna to Richard, who was staring rather intently at Lizzy, and back to Georgianna Oh boy. I am in one heck of a fix.

"I for one think that this is a horrible idea, do you know what type of people go to bowling alleys," then turning to Lizzy, "Well, I guess You would; but I..."

"I think that it's a splendid idea" piped up Will as he saw the hurt and indignation in Lizzy's eyes, quickly silencing Caroline with a menacing look. Caroline pouted and tried to look hurt, when she couldn't catch Will's eye she began to glower at Lizzy. "There is a small problem though, I don't know how to bowl either." Said Will rather sheepishly.

Lizzy smacked her forehead, "I forgot I was dealing with bluebloods" she said smiling and nodding to Georgie, "But between the two of us we should be able to teach all of you."

They reached a crowded bowling alley filled with families, teenagers, and couples on dates. Caroline quickly wrinkled her nose in disgust and held her bowling shoes at arm's length. Lizzy and Georgie nudged each other at her visible discomfort and Lizzy was forced to stifle a laugh as Caroline slipped the shoes on with noticeable difficult she had gotten a size too small after commenting on how women's feet should be dainty, blah, blah . Soon the game got underway and two teams were formed: with a great deal of manuevering on the part of Lizzy Richard and Georgianna and Will, Lizzy, and Caroline. Will stepped up to the line and practically launched the ball down the lane, although traveling with a great deal of force, it ended up squarely in the gutter.

"Lizzy, I do believe I could use some help." He said with a sheepish grin. Lizzy smiled and went to help him, correcting his stance and showing him the proper delivery of the ball. As she placed a hand on his arm she couldn't help but feel the warmth of his skin beneath the fabric nor how incredibly toned and well-defined his body was. She felt a little faint control yourself girlie, back to the matter at hand resuming with a hardly perceptible lapse, Lizzy completed her instructions. While she spoke a few wisps of her hair had fallen in Will's face and their intoxicating smell coupled with the warmth of her breath on his face made him unaware of anything she was actually saying. When she was finished he turned and said, "Could you repeat that I don't think I caught everything?"

Caroline looked on upon the scene intently. Why that Elisa Bennet was flirting with her Will! And that expression on his face, well Caroline knew that expression rather well, it was the same one that was pasted on her brother's face whenever HER sister walked in the door. It was an expression that she had never seen on Will before and now he had because of HER. Yet, Caroline was no fool she knew that she shouldn't make a scene for her relationship with Will hung rather precariously and she didn't want to force him into a position where he would make an...er...hasty decision.

"Willy-poo, I need help learning how to hold this stupid ball, come here and help your little Caw-o-line" she said in exaggerated baby talk as she beckoned Will after his turn.

Will groaned inwardly, did she have to use that voice! "Caroline, I just learned, I'm hardly a qualified teacher, why don't you ask Lizzy?"

Caroline pouted, yet Lizzy came and patiently showed her how to hold it. Caroline refused any additional assistance, "How hard can it be to hit those pins, I'm sure many of these people didn't even go to college," and very confidently went forward and dropped the ball on the lane, it rolled down so slowly that for a moment the party actually believed that it had stopped in the middle of the lane. Fortunately it managed to roll with a thunk into the gutter. Will stifled a laugh with great difficulty as she huffed by stating that the game was simply beneath and that she refused to participate further. "Will I want to be taken home" she said pouting.

"Caroline the game just began" he said exasperatedly.

"Now, Will." She said through gritted teeth, "What do you value more..." she said with a pointed look at Lizzy, "Me...or a stupid game."

"Fine." Caroline smirked happily and began gathering her things. Will pulled out his cell phone, quickly muttered some directions and snapped the phone shut.

"The driver will be here to get you in a few minutes."

"But...but...I thought you would" she said her face turning a shade of red that was almost...orange!

"Caroline, I am NOT leaving, first of all it would be rude and secondly I'm having a splendid time!"

"Well, then I'm waiting outside!" she said stomping out, only to be stopped by management and being forced to return her rented shoes.

Will turned to others apologetically and looking directly at Lizzy, "I'm sorry about Caroline...sometimes...sometimes she...well truthfully there IS no excuse for the way she just behaved!"

The group smiled and soon bowling was resumed and Caroline was forgotten by all except Lizzy, who wondered how an incredible guy like Will could align himself with such a woman. Georgianna and Richard maintained a comfortable level of conversation and Georgie looked to be in great danger of looking deliriously happy. Yet, Richard kept turning to speak with Lizzy and in fact his eyes rarely left her throughout the evening. Lizzy and Will joked and laughed and soon Will became quite the proficient bowler. Towards the end of the game when both men had caught on, the competition began in earnest. Will and Lizzy booed the opposing team and Georgie and Richard responded in kind well as much as his gentlemanlike demeanor and her good-nature would allow . Yet, Lizzy was having a bit of difficulty in keeping her attention on the game, especially since everytime Will bowled his back would be directly in front of her and when he would bend over she would be forced to notice his extraordinarily cute posterior. Amidst these distractions and Georgie being a better bowler, Richard and Georgie won, and the hug they shared to celebrate their victory kept Georgie's face lit up like Christmas for the remainder of the evening.

They stopped to get ice cream on the way home and sat atop of the car as they ate it, another of Lizzy's suggestions, and watched the stars.

"You know, I do believe that one of the main things I'll miss about home is not being able to see the stars clearly, in the big city all the lights dull their brilliance." She said softly. Richard watched her full mouth as she spoke and the wistful look in her eye drove him crazy.

"I miss it at times too, but I always go away to Matlock, my estate in the country, whenever I need a good dose." He said smiling at her. Georgie had been watching him, and the smile that he had when he looked at Lizzy didn't rival the friendly attention he had paid to her during the game. She felt herself almost wither inside, and she was not the only one for another pair of eyes also looked with sadness at the rapport shared between Lizzy and Richard.

"I'm sorry, but I'm a little tired, do you think that I could be dropped home." Said Georgie in a small voice.

"Oh, I'm sorry Georgie, I totally forgot how early a riser you are, you must be exhausted." Replied Lizzy with genuine concern in her voice.

They were dropped at their apartment and again Georgie went straight to bed. Leaving a highly confused Lizzy to make herself some tea.

As she put on the pot of water and let down her hair the doorbell rang.

"I got it" a force of habit she hadn't been able to break after living in a house with seven people.

She opened the door and there stood Will.

"I forgot something" he said and leaned over and kissed her on the cheek, "It's my turn to thank you for a magical evening." He whispered in her ear, his breath tickling her. "Goodnight Lizzy"

"Goodnight Will" she fairly whispered as she shut the door. Her face flushed, she sunk to the floor for such a thing was not easily recovered from.

Although Lizzy had never earnestly believed that she had any real powers of attraction she wasn't blind enough not to notice the amount of attention that Richard had been paying to her. He was witty, kind, responsible, charming, devistatingly handsome in short everything a woman would want in a man, yet she wasn't interested. 'But why she asked herself, he's perfect!' Yet, she knew quite well why she had no feelings for Richard. 'It's so foolish, he's engaged! He's in love with another woman and looks upon you as a friend of his baby sister!' Yet, Lizzy knew that it was as hopeless to try to convince herself that she was interested Richard as it was to convince herself that she wasn't hopelessly and madly in love with Will Darcy.

V

Posted on Tuesday, 13 June 2000, at 2 : 19 a.m.

Lizzy and Georgianna sat in their living room looking over the overwhelming amount of material they had received on their first of orientation. The strains in their friendship had been quite visible today with Georgie hardly saying more than a few words to Lizzy throughout the walk home. Georgie had been fighting with her emotions throughout the day, she knew a 14 year old friendship was too precious to throw away over any guy, but she was still smarting from the blow she had received from Richard. She looked over now at Lizzy at the sadness that marred her pretty features.

"Lizzy" she said quietly.

"Yes Georgie" said Lizzy brightening at the sound of her friend's voice.

"I'm sorry for being in such a wretched mood today...I didn't mean to take it out on you." She said smiling a sheepish smile not unlike her brother's.

"Apology accepted, all is forgiven" said Lizzy with a grin and the two girls picked up where they left off and went into the kitchen to start dinner. What started as a simple attempt at a meatloaf soon escalated to a food fight of miniature proportions how grandiose can a food fight be in a tiny kitchen ? Which was interrupted only by the ringing of the phone.

"I'll get in" cried Georgie through laughter with a streak of flour running down her face. "Hello, Oh Hi Richard" she said her face brightening then falling, "Lizzy, yes Lizzy is right here." She said as she handed the phone to her friend, trying to keep her voice level and her face neutral.

Lizzy took the phone with a frown, "Hi Richard, yes I'm fine. Will gave you two tickets to Much Ado About Nothing...Friday...I'm sorry but I'm busy, yes I can't get out of it...but I'm positive that Georgie would love to go with you." She said as she handed the phone to her friend, mouthing 'he want's to talk to you.'

Georgie took the phone gingerly, "Yes...yes...I'm a huge fan of the Bard...yes I'd love to go...well I'll see you then...goodbye." she said as she replaced the phone on the receiver. "Lizzy"

"Yes Georgie"

"What are you doing on Friday night, you don't know anyone in Boston except for my family."

"Oh, I have....a...I"

"Why didn't you want to go out with Richard... he's funny, smart, kind, handsome, everything we always said..." she stopped as realization dawned on her. She ran into her friend's arms, "Oh Lizzy, did you do it for me...because you knew I cared for him?" she said between tears.

"Georgie, I'm your best friend, I'd have to be a fool not to know...besides I would never let a guy part this pair of friends" she said then holding her friend at arm's length, "You totally owe me though...You know that 'Much Ado About Nothing' is my favorite play!" and they laughed together, joyfully. Quickly restoring the friendship that love had tested but not broken.

Richard stared at the phone as he sat alone in his bedroom. It had taken him all day to work up the courage to ask Lizzy out and she had been so...so...dismissive. She said she was busy...she might as well said never to call again. The whole conversation had gone so horribly awry; he had envisioned her laughing with him, her excitement at the play she had mentioned an affection for the work but now he was going with Georgianna. Not that there was anything wrong with her, she was a sweet girl; but she was so quiet. Georgie must be furious at Lizzy for volunteering her he thought with a sad smirk.

Elizabeth.

She was perfect.

He mistook her friendship for something more. I am a fool.

He cradled in his head in his hands as he sat alone in the dark.

"How about this?" she said as she held up a beautifully cut, simple black sheath.

"Well, Oh...I don't know...just pick something Lizzy, I'm exhausted. What does it matter whatever I wear he'll still be thinking of you!" cried Georgie as she sprawled on the bed.

"Georgianna Anne Darcy, look at this dress, you have to concentrate on putting me out of his mind. Trust me that will be an easy task for you if you just open yourself up a little," then Lizzy's voice softened as she sat on the bed and cupped Georgie's chin with her hand, "look Georgie, his pride's a little hurt...but I know that he isn't in love with me, just be yourself...that will win him in itself."

"What if he still, what if he still doesn't like me."

"Then just be his friend...trust me, he'll come around before you know it." Smiled Lizzy, "now get your lazy butt up and get dressed. He's going to be here any minute."

They settled on the black sheath with a strand of pearls and they let Georgianna's golden ringlets down and held them back with antique opal hair combs. The overall effect was stunning. "Georgie, you're going to knock his socks off." She said when they heard the doorbell.

Lizzy stayed in the room to give the impression that she had gone out. She heard happy voices, and Georgie's tinkling laughter and the door close gently. Lizzy left the room with a sigh; and proceeded to the kitchen to make some tea. Suddenly the phone rang.

"Georgie?" came a panicked voice.

"Hello... Mrs. Darcy? It's Lizzy, Georgie is out with Richard. What's wrong?" she said anxiously, her heart sinking in fear.

"Lizzy, do you know where she went?"

"Yes Mrs. Darcy, I'll leave a message with the restaruant they're eating at. What happened? Is everything OK?" she said her voice cracking anxiously.

Mrs. Darcy began sobbing, "Oh Dear God"

"Mrs. Darcy where are you, I'm coming down there."

"I'm at St. Michael's Hospital in the ICU" she managed between sobs.

Lizzy hung up the phone. Will She put on her shoes, damn...they should have bought the car this weekend. Well, St. Michael's is only a few blocks from here. Will She dashed out of her apartment, oblivious to the rain spattering on her face and drenching her hair. Will . As she ran through the streets, she tried to keep herself calm. Will She tried to be optimistic. Will But all she could do was pump her legs faster than ever before, and hope against hope.

VII

Posted on Tuesday, 13 June 2000, at 7 : 29 p.m.

"Will" she cried, almost sobbing from relief. He stood there in the waiting room talking with a doctor, his mother was no where to be seen. He turned away from the doctor and enfolded her in his arms, it was a few moments before either could speak.

"It's Pappa Lizzy, he's had a heart attack." He almost sobbed into her shoulder

"Oh Dear God, will he be OK." She said as she pulled away from him.

"They don't know, they say the next couple of hours are critical because they aren't exactly sure how much damage has been done to the heart." He said, his voice breaking.

Lizzy led him to the small sofa in the waiting area and wrapped her arms about him comfortingly, for the first time in hours Will felt a little at peace. A choked sob emanated from him and Lizzy stroked his hair comfortingly. She held him until his sobs subsided, "Lizzy you're all wet." He said noticing for the first time.

"I thought...when your mother called...I thought it was you. I ran here, I thought something had happened to one of my dearest friends." She said as he laid his head on her shoulder. He shrank a little at the word friend she loves Richard and that is all we will ever be, friends

He got up and turned to the window. "Lizzy...this, all of this is all my fault. The company is bankrupt, Pappa's accountant and best friend, I used to call him Uncle Walter for pete's sake, Mr. Elliot embezzeled everything. That's why Pappa's been so haggard the past few months, he was trying to stave off ruin...and I...when I should have been by his side working with him...I was off partying" he almost spat the last words, for Will was now writhing in a world of self-contempt.

"Will, you couldn't have known" she said as she laid a hand on his shoulder.

He turned towards her, "Yes Lizzy, I could have...I could have if, as you so eloquently put it a few weeks ago, I had 'taken my life seriously' from the beginning. My penance for being a fool, for being irresponsible is the knowledge that I, Fitzwilliam Darcy, put my father in that room." He said as he banged his fist against the wall.

"Why, why did this have to happen to us?" he said as he hung his head in his hands. There was quiet in the room as Lizzy measured her words carefully.

"Will" said Lizzy quietly, "I cannot bear to see you wallow in self-pity. I understand your pain but you have two options: the first to sit here and condemn yourself for what you should have done in the past, and the second to do something now. What do you think your father would require from you now, to sit here in your own sorrow, or to comfort your mother and your sister." At sister, Lizzy started, "Oh Dear God, I forgot that I needed to contact Georgie...she should be back by now" as she checked her watch.

"Well...You recommended action, let's go pick up Georgie...and get you some dry clothing." Before she knew it, he had taken of his long sleeve shirt and handed it to her. Saying with a sad smile, "You must be cold."

They rode back in silence, Will was still smarting from the import of Lizzy's words, Lizzy was angry at herself for being so harsh with Will.

Finally Lizzy broke the ice, "Will, I'm sorry for sounding so..."

"Truthful," he said with a smirk, "Lizzy don't apologize. I needed that." His voice softened a little, as he patted her hand gently, "Leave it to my Lizzy to straighten me out." She loved the way that sounded in his voice my Lizzy "Anyway," he said continuing, "that was the best advice anyone has ever given me and I intend to follow it." By then they had reached the apartment, as they entered there was still no sign of Georgie. Lizzy went directly to her room and changed into some dry, comfortable clothes. Will longed to follow her in there stop it, remember, you're just friends she came back quickly while toweling her long dark curls, her cheeks rosy from the warmth of the room. Will's self-control was slowly drifting away and he rose and met her, taking the towel from her hands. He cupped her face in his hand and leaned in to kiss her. Suddenly they heard a click of the door being opened, Georgie came in with a happy grin pasted on her face.

"Will...what are you doing here?" she said, her expression turning to one of concern as he came towards her.

"Georgie, Pappa's had a heart attack, he's in the ICU at St. Michaels"

Georgie slowly mouthed a silent, "no...no it can't be." Her brother folded her into his embrace and she began to sob. Will brought his sister over to Lizzy for comfort as he went to bring the car around, the three rode back to the hospital in silence, each lost in their own thoughts.

When they arrived Georgie was allowed to briefly visit with her father, since only one person was allowed in at a time, Mrs. Darcy came and sat with Elizabeth. Will had immediately taken out his cell phone and was on the phone with the best heart surgeons in the US, down in Houston asking them to fly in for a consultation.

Mrs. Darcy's red rimmed eyes were testament to her suffering, she hardly spoke, but drew comfort from the strength of Lizzy's hand in hers. Anne Darcy had always liked Georgie's friend Lizzy, first as a good influence on her daughter, then as an excellent roommate for her; in the past few weeks she had come to realize that Lizzy Bennet was a blessing to the family, bringing sunshine and comfort wherever she went. She struggled and brought a smile for the girl, who inquired after her. Soon the two were conversing freely, Mrs. Darcy relating tales of Will and Georgie's childhood, her own youth, and most frequently of her courtship with George. Lizzy listened patiently, letting the older woman talk, content to see the happy smile that would cross Mrs. Darcy's face as she recalled happier times. When Georgie came out of the room, Mrs. Darcy rose and hugged Lizzy.

"You are a gem my child. Thank you for everything you have done for us." Stopping Lizzy's protestation with a squeeze of her hand. Will had looked upon the scene with great interest. He had never realized the true extent of the treasure he had found in Lizzy, had he made himself a man worthy of deserving her, that felicity could have been his.

Georgie and Lizzy soon fell to talking in hushed whispers, conversing for hours, patiently killing the time till the return of the doctor and waiting for some news of what was to come. Georgie soon cried herself to sleep on the sofa. Will, who had been on the phone with doctors, as well as the company's financial advisors to ensure that they still had enough money to give his father the best care available took a brief respite by plopping onto the sofa next to Georgie. He absently stoked his sister's golden curls, and was interrupted by reverie by Lizzy who handed him a cup of coffee.

"Thank You, Lizzy." He said holding on to her hand, his eyes full of emotion.

"What are you going to do now Will" she said as she sat down next to him.

"Find my father the best medical help available. And do exactly what he would have wanted, keep the company together." They sat there for some time calmly and rationally discussing possible options, neither belying the agony they were suffering. The kiss that never was hung between them like a veil yet neither wanted to address it. Like always, their conversation lulled them to sleep; with Lizzy's head on his chest and his arms wrapped around her.

"Mr. and Mrs. Darcy," said a voice. Will opened his eyes to see Lizzy's beautiful face below him if only I could wake up everyday to a sight such as this He turned to see the doctor looking down on them...

VII

Posted on Wednesday, 14 June 2000, at 6 : 16 p.m.

"Mr. and Mrs. Darcy," said a voice. Will opened his eyes to see Lizzy's beautiful face below him if only I could wake up everyday to a sight such as this He turned to see the doctor looking down on them...

"Dr. Khan," cried Will as he dislodged Lizzy and stood, "How is my father...will he be allright?"

"His condition is still critical, we have to perform a quadruple bypass on his heart and if he can make it through the surgery he's home free. The surgery is pretty routine but your father had a massive heart attack that severely damaged his heart so it could be a little tricky. It should last 8-9 hours; we're going to start prepping him immediately."

"Can I go in and see him?"

"Yes but very briefly the quicker we get started the better."

Lizzy stirred in her sleep, "Will what's wrong?" Then seeing the Doctor she started, "Dr. Khan, how is he?"

"I explained everything to your husband, Mrs. Darcy, he needs surgery" he said with a kind smile.

Lizzy's consternation with the news caused her to overlook the doctor's faux pas, but Will caught it and smiled sadly. I wish...

"Will, what does he mean, should we wake Georgie and your mother?" she said questioningly

"Yes, Lizzy could you do that for me?" and he left to go to his father's room. Everytime he came in there he shuddered with sadness at seeing his tall, handsome father beneath the mass of tubes and wires that covered him.

"Pappa" he said softly, "Pappa, it's Will. Pappa, they said we didn't have much time in here but I wanted to tell you that I love you so very much. Pappa I don't think I could make it without you. Not in the business, because I'll do that for you, but in my life. There is so much left for you to do, and see. I love you very much, and I know it's selfish but I want you here with me." He would have continued but he heard his sister at the door, he kissed his father's forehead and left the room unaware of the tears that were streaming down his face. He passed his mother and sister not wishing to intrude upon their grief, and sat down on the couch, completely overcome. He felt Lizzy's arms go around him and his pain lessened slightly. So they sat for sometime until a courier approached them asking for Mr. Will Darcy.

"Yes, that's me"

"These just arrived for you sir." As he handed him two letters, one appeared to be written on plain paper, the other was written on pink stationary. Will rose and went into the hall as he read, a few minutes later he called, "Lizzy could you come in here for a moment, I want to consult with you on something."

Lizzy rose and went to him, "Yes Will." He tossed a letter at her.

"Here, tell me what you think of this." He cried.

As Lizzy read she felt herself become livid with rage and weak with relief at the same time. "I think that she's a heartless mercenary beast. I think that she's very lucky that I adore Charles far too much to injure any member of his family. I think that she doesn't deserve you." Said Lizzy passionately.

"Oh, I think that I gave you the wrong letter," he said sheepishly although he was secretly pleased that she had seen THAT letter. He took it back and looked over it, "It is rather harsh is it not, I never loved her mind you...but I asked her to marry me because I really thought she was in love me...and I figured I could make one of us happy." He said with a sad smile, "I didn't really think that she would abandon me, she says she 'doesn't want to be a burden' especially in my poor family's 'current condition.' Rather the rich Will Darcy is worth her time but the poor Will Darcy can go to the devil as he pleases." Said Will crushing the letter in his hand.

"But he isn't going," cried Lizzy. She longed to hold him, to tell him that she would never abandon him but Caroline's letter had changed everything. He was free; and she couldn't trust herself to shield her feelings any longer. Instead, she stood trying to gather up every inch of her 5'3" frame to match up to his 6' stature. She reached up and grabbed his chin, "Will, your family, Georgie, Richard, and I all believe in you. Remember that our friendship has not changed with that of your bank balance." She said smiling at him sweetly. How he longed to take her in his arms then, but his conscience and the letter in his pocket would not allow him to.

"This is the letter I wanted to show you, Richard left this morning for England and he's scheduled to be back in a week, he sent this from the airport." He said handing her a letter.

"He's buying you out...he's putting his own company on Mortgage to keep Darcy Ind. together." Lizzy said her amazement overwhelming her.

"He's put so much faith in my ability to pull the company out of it's straits that he's risking his own fortune." Said Will shaking his head in disbelief.

"He is the best of men. I cannot...you are lucky to have such a friend Will." She said her eyes shining as she thought how much it would mean to Georgie. Will looked at her shining face I have lost her, she loves Richard, he deserves her . "I must tell your sister." She said with a smile, "I don't know which news she'll be happier about though referring to the end of his engagement.

"Really," he cried in mock horror as he tickled her sides till she pled for mercy. She ended up locked in his arms her face in his chest. She felt so perfect, so right being there. His allegiance to Richard and his knowledge of Lizzy's feeling clamped down on Will, he turned, releasing her and going to the window.

"I have to leave for London after Papa's surgery. My cousin Henry want's to purchase some of the mills there, If we can build them up and sell them at full price I can put the rest of the money into the rest of the ventures."

Lizzy was stunned, "when?" she managed to mouth.

"Tomorrow morning" he said keeping his voice level.

"Oh."

"I want to thank you for--"

"A magical evening," she finished referring to their nighttime ritual.

"Yes--" he said with a smile as he recalled the warmth of her cheek beneath his lips, "and for everything you've done for my family." He said taking her hands in his. He slowly traced the line of her cheek with his finger, "you are among my dearest objects on this Earth," he said almost in a whisper, "my dear little Lizzy." He said smiling softly. Lizzy almost winced, he thinks of me as a child, little Lizzy Will thought she winced at his touch, at the meaning of his words, he withdrew his hand and turned away.

"Don't forget to write Lizzy," he said nonchalantly. "I should be back in a few months." He was running. He couldn't stand being so close to her, knowing that he couldn't have her. Knowing that she was in love with his best friend.

"I will." She said tears coming to her eyes, as she turned and left the room.

Chapter

Posted on Thursday, 15 June 2000, at 12 : 17 p.m.

Ok, all discussion of Richard will be left to the end, because...well quite frankly if I start with that I won't shut up, he's one of the few topics I can speak endlessly about. Well, we moved back to Pemberley, it was kind of amusing in an ironic type of way. We move in, we move out, we break the lease, life goes on. Moving back to Pemberley was our vague attempt to help Mamma out with everything, with running the Boston office, taking care of Pappa, and everything else she used to do before the heart attack, we figured the least we could do was take care of the estate.

I say 'we' because Lizzy refused point blank to stay in the apartment, rather it was her idea that we move back to help take care of things. The rift between us is mercifully bridged, I mean I can't blame her for being incredible can I? Well, I do a little, but I'm constantly amazed by how wonderful she is. I mean not every girl is willing to sacrifice her school work, her freedom, and her time for the sake of her best friend.

When I say 'we' in regards to estate work, it usually mean 'her' I mean I had NO idea how much work all of this is. We let go of most of the help, so I had to learn how to do laundry and learn how to cook and clean. My first attempts at each were pretty much nightmares, let's just say that I now own 12 pairs of pink socks and the sheets in the guest room that one were ivory are now a sky blue. I knew Richard was a keeper when he managed to choke down the first dinner I ever cooked, heck by the end of cooking it even I didn't know what it was exactly. Oh yes, I forgot no more talking about Richard.

School is well...school is more difficult than I ever anticipated it to be. Lizzy assures me it's because we don't have a great deal of time to study, but I have a feeling that memorizing what seems like every blood vessel in the body won't get easier with time.

Pappa is so much better, I mean he hasn't returned to everything that he used to be able to do and I doubt that he shall but he is so improved that we all feel truly blessed. Mamma is coping surprisingly well under all the stress, we always knew she was a strong woman but I never knew exactly how strong. She keeps us all sane and grounded. Will...well, Will is another story. Sometimes that brother of mine drives me insane, he writes and he calls but he says nothing, I mean no thoughts on what he's feeling or thinking just business updates. He says he doesn't have much of a personal life, which I find hard to believe. Especially if he's with my cousin Henry, who is an amazingly fun guy. The only other person he speaks of is a woman he praises rather highly, Catherine, maybe she's the cause of his despondency. Well, I hope she's better than Caroline, sheesh my brother has the worst taste in women.

On to Richard, hurrah! Allright Georgie, calm yourself. Well, I can't say enough about him he's everything I always dreamed of, funny, smart, kind...he so wonderful...and he's gorgeous to boot. Our first date was everything I had hoped for, although sometimes, Ok a LOT of the times I could sense that his heart wasn't in it. When he visited I could feel the tension between him and Lizzy, but they both made an effort to put it behind them, and in time he even stopped casting the longing glances her way. He visited a lot, I thought it was solely motivated by friendship for Will after he got over Lizzy, but somehow it always ended up just being the two of us sitting in the living room and chatting.

Well, one day we were sitting in front of the fire when my favorite song came on, "Have You Ever Loved A Woman" when I mentioned I liked he said "of course you would, all women love this song." Teasingly, I wonder why I love it when he does it and hate it when Will does it. He asked me to dance, and well it was magical. At first he spun me around and we goofed off, but then he pulled me into his embrace and we just stopped. I thought that he would kiss me then, but he didn't; we just stood there locked in this wonderful embrace, we started dancing again and he decided to dip me, I don't think he was very proficient in the art of dipping, because we both fell to the floor. We laughed for a few minutes and I moved to get up and bumped my head against his in the process; which caused another fit of giggles and then in the middle of my laughter he kissed me. It was as if time stopped, the room spun, the sun shone, it was AMAZING.

Well, we've been pretty much inseparable since then, and yesterday he asked me to marry him. I told him I'd consider it. Yeah right, I think that I cried and laughed and screamed at the same time. I don't know how he can stand me. My parents were overjoyed and Lizzy started crying with happiness; we decided to surprise Will when he gets here, I mean if he doesn't tell us his secrets I won't tell him mine...

The only thing that worries me is well...Lizzy. My shining, happy-go-lucky best friend has slowly been drifting into seclusion. She still keeps up with everything, the family, school, the estate, even me, but beyond that...for a life of her own...well she just won't have it. Half of our class has already asked her out, pretty soon the married guys and the women are going to start going after her; but she refuses to go out with any of them and all of them. She's gotten pale and withdrawn and she's just thrown herself into her work. I mean the only time she even perks up a little is when...wait a sec...no...it can't be...alright hold on I think that I am realizing that not only am I officially the world's worst best friend but also one of the dumbest people I know. Lizzy only perks up when Will calls, she's been dejected since he left, she shows no interest in anyone else; sorry if this logic line seems a little elementary but I'm just getting it. Excuse me for a moment, I have to go have a small chat with Lizzy, and explain to her calmly and rationally that one does NOT hide secrets of such magnitude from one's best friend; especially if one is in love with aforementioned best friend's brother...

Richard-

I am speechless, I am a broken man...for everything I ever thought to be true about first love and loving once has been smashed to pieces. I am resolved that the only salvation for my entire belief structure is realizing that I was never in love with Lizzy Bennet. Surprisingly, that's quite easy which leads me to confirm that belief into fact.

I can honestly say that what I feel right now is something I have never experienced, nor do I forsee feeling again. Georgie brightens my whole soul, when I was with Lizzy I envied her liveliness, with Georgie I feel alive. I'm not quite sure when it started, initially my visits to Pemberley were made out of concern for the family I had come to love, friendship for Will, and I admit a masochistic longing to be in Lizzy's presence. When I saw her again the admiration came flowing back, but not the pain...I think that I was more in love with the bittersweet nature of our relationship than with the lady in question herself. So the more I saw her, the more friendly we became again, and the less I wanted her. It sounds strange but that's the way it worked. It also had a lot to do with the fact that she's obviously in love with Will. I love Georgie, and she's a very bright girl, but in matters of the heart, she not unlike her brother, can be a little dense. I think that it's going to come as a very pleasant surprise to her.

Back to the matter at hand. Well, for some reason I kept coming back to Pemberley every day. And I saw more and more of Georgie and I realized how completely incredible she truly was. Her thoughts were so profound, her nature was so sweet and perfectly wonderful. She was also incredibly beautiful, with her golden tresses and big blue eyes, I mean she takes my breath away. Every time I close my eyes I still see her on our first date, looking like an angel. I knew she was perfection personified, I just hadn't noticed that she was perfect for me...

I didn't even notice it happening but one day I took Georgie out to lunch and a colleague of mine asked if she was available, I almost bit the poor man's head off. I wasn't sure what had caused such a surge of jealousy but the very thought of her with someone else drove me mad. It was then I knew. I was a lost man. I had a hell of a time trying to ascertain her feelings towards me, she acted just as she always had; beautifully. I just wanted her happiness, and I knew that mine was lodged within this slip of a girl. That night we danced to THE SONG as Georgie refers to it, I have a feeling it will be blaring at our wedding, I think I dropped her on purpose. Despite what lies she tells you I am VERY experienced at dipping, I dropped her on purpose, honest. Well, after that kiss...well, quite frankly I couldn't wait to ask her to spend the rest of my life with me- I went and bought a ring the next morning. When she said yes, I practically burst from sheer happiness. I don't deserve her but I'm thankful beyond words that I have her in my life.

Part VIIB

Posted on Friday, 16 June 2000, at 11 : 10 a.m.

Lizzy-

Well, Georgie knows. I didn't think I could keep it secret forever, but am I transparent enough that even she finds out. OUCH, stop punching me Georgie, yes I know you are not dense...yes I am very good at hiding my emotions...yes it was very wrong to hide it from you. Sorry, Georgie's sitting at my right, therefore my TRUE emotions will just have to be censored, just kidding Georgie don't you dare hit me again. Yes, as it is apparent for all to see, I am in suffering with unrequited love of Will Darcy. Stop laughing Georgie I'm serious. Yeah, I know it sounds silly; but I've spent the last few months trying desperately to convince myself that this is not the case. But what I've realized is that neither junk food nor cold showers, not even gross anatomy can keep my mind of him and I think I'm going crazy. I'm so proud of him though, the company is turning around under his lead and he's finishing up his work in London ahead of schedule, so he should be back in two weeks. But above all, I see the passionate Will I knew as a girl, the one who still believed in things, the one who still had dreams he aspired to...

I've been working, and working. I love school, because it's a means to an ends, when I'm there I feel fulfilled, as if I'm actually doing something with my life. OK, there are some things I could seriously live without, for example gross anatomy, exams, practicals...OK there are a LOT of things I could live without, but it's keeping me sane. I miss my family, I don't know why but I do...I miss them like crazy. I'm going to go see Jane next month after Will gets back to help her plan the wedding. I hope Caroline isn't there, because well...I wouldn't want to spoil's Jane's plans with a homicide...

It's so strange...but ever since Will left I'm not interested in anything....

He left. He doesn't love me. Most of all, all I seem to hear about these days is Ms. Morland this, and Ms. Morland that. Ok the doorbell just rang, which means Richard is here, which means Georgie just left, which means I can speak freely. Back to Ms. Morland, she works with them at the Mills and Will speaks so highly of her, and most of all he speaks of her so OFTEN. But the thing is I can't hate her, although Georgie encourages me to do so- hmmm...makes me wonder how she felt towards ME when she thought Richard liked me...eep. I can't hate her because Will seems so happy when I hear him on the phone. Georgie insists that he's purely despondent when she speaks to him, maybe because he's unsure if Ms. Morland returns his affection. In a perverse way I hope she does learn to love him; at least then he'll be with someone worthy of his affections

Because above all. I just want him to be happy....

Will-

I never knew hard work was so hard.

London is wonderful, she would love it here. Henry and Catherine are always dragging me out, but everywhere I go I swear I see her face or hear her laughter or feel her presence.

I knew that I was going crazy when I saw her face on an orange in Chelsea, I bought the orange ...it's sitting on the mantle.

I've taken to staying at home, mostly because then I know that my 'Lizzy sightings' as Henry calls them are really hallucinations, otherwise I just expect to see her on every street corner.

I love Lizzy.

Richard is always at Pemberley. Lizzy told me this herself; she sounds so happy when I talk to her on the phone.

Lizzy loves Richard.

Damn Richard; alright I don't mean that, I still like Richard...I just wish...damn.

It's a good thing that I'm not a drinking man, because if I was I'd probably be sprawled out on a sofa somewhere.

Instead I work.

10 days till I get back. Ahead of schedule. 10 days till I see her...

Richard better treat her right...

Because above all. I just want her to be happy...

IX

Posted on Saturday, 17 June 2000, at 1 : 48 a.m.

Lizzy sat up and rubbed her eyes at the commotion downstairs, she'd been sleeping for sometime now, it was the first sleep she'd gotten in three days what with midterms, practicals, and keeping the house running.

She appraised herself in the mirror. 'Well, mother would be happy...I've lost weight.' Indeed, Mrs. Darcy and Georgie practically force fed her every evening, she just wasn't hungry. Her skin was pale, and dark shadows had begun to form beneath her eyes. 'I look quite appropriately lovelorn' she said to herself with a sad smirk.

She let her curls down from their customary bun and changed into a pair of loose black pants and a champagne colored tank top and covered herself with her burgundy fleece. She padded downstairs and came face to face with the cause of the commotion- Will.

He was standing across the room talking business with his father while his mother looked on with loving eyes. She saw her first, "Lizzy, Georgie just ran up to get you!" Yet, Lizzy's attention was not on Georgie, nor on Mrs. Darcy, rather it was fixed firmly upon the young man before her. He looked tired, but resolute...not unlike a conquering hero; at least through Lizzy's eyes.

They stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity, but was really rather seconds, each aching for the other to run into their arms...

The doorbell next caught the attention of the family, well all accept Lizzy and Will who were still staring at each other, drinking in the sight of one another.

"Richard," came the exhubrent cry of Georgie. Will quickly tore his gaze from Lizzy as a rather pained expression crossed his face, but the sight he saw next nearly bowled him over. There was his sister KISSING Richard. Then she brought Richard over to him, "Will, I know that you've met before, but I don't think that you've ever been properly introduced, this is my fiance' Richard Farnsworth."

Will was agape, his eyes searched the room and found Lizzy, but her face was filled with neither hurt nor sadness, rather it was surprisingly...happy.

"I wanted to tell you Will, but this little minx wouldn't have it" said Richard as he kissed Georgie.

"Aren't you going to congratulate me Will" said Georgie petulantly, Will looked down at his little sister lovingly and took her into his arms, "Of course, I'm very happy for you both. I can't believe my little Georgie is all grown up; it seems like yesterday I was pushing you into mudpits."

"You pushed me into one a few days before you left." She cried

"Well, yes. That's probably why it seems that way." He said with a twinkle in his eye, "and look at you now, an engaged woman!" Then turning to his family and Lizzy who were watching the scene with amusement, "What do you all make of this." He asked looking Lizzy straight in the eye.

"I like it very much indeed, and I don't deny that I had a rather large hand in it" said Lizzy as she blew on her nails and buffed them.

"Oh really?" asked Georgie approaching her friend.

"Yes, how do you think you and Richard would ever so conveniently be left alone every afternoon." She said as they all burst into laughter. This display was looked upon with no little interest by Will, he was soon able to see that Lizzy harbored no ill will towards the engagement, and Richard and Georgie were genuinely happy.

"Well, then I hope you will be just as pleased with another engagement that will be announced soon."
He said to his parents with a grin. Lizzy and Georgie were left to broadcast a panicked 'Catherine Morland' between them.

Dinner was a pleasant enough affair with Will gazing lovingly at Lizzy and Lizzy fighting to keep a level countenance. The family soon retired and sleep came easily to after such an eventful day; well all accept Lizzy who padded down to make some tea. Visions of a very beautiful Catherine Morland danced through her brain and wouldn't let her mind rest.

Lizzy put on the kettle with a nostalgic sigh as she thought back fondly to the night Will had scared her out of her wits.

"Could I have some too?" came a familiar voice from the shadows as Will entered in a t-shirt and sweats, his hair dissheveled; yet to Lizzy he had never looked more appealing. "I had a feeling you would be down here," he said with a grin.

"You love scaring me don't you?" she said with a smile.

"That I do," he said returning her grin. But then his face turned serious, "You look tired Lizzy, I think that you've been working yourself too hard," he said as he brushed her cheek with his finger.

"Yes, everything has kept me rather busy; But, you would know about busy wouldn't you" she said smilingly, "How was London?" she said with a determined effort to keep a smile on her face

"London is very nice, you would love it...When we go back for the wedding this summer, I'd love for you to come with us." He said a little sheepishly.

"The wedding...so soon," she said in almost a whisper to herself, she paused as if frozen for a moment. Then she leaned over and kissed his cheek and said with a smile that was more pathetic than a thousand tears "I wish you all the happiness in the world Will, I can't wait to meet Catherine."

"What are you talking about Lizzy, I'm not getting married...my Cousin Henry is."

"But when you sounded so happy then despondent...and you mentioned Catherine we all thought you were in love." she said, hope slowly washing over her.

"Well I am...but not with Catherine." He said. Lizzy felt as if cold water had been dumped over her head, for the more earnest Will became the more blunt were his words.

He came around the counter to where she was standing and slipped a hand around her waist drawing her close to him, until she stood millimeters away from him, "Well, who are you in love wi-" she began to ask, but was interrupted by his lips against hers. He kissed her with all the emotion that had built inside him in the past few months and she responded in kind. He kissed her neck and buried his face in her hair, "Can you take a guess who it could be." He asked.

"I could try," she said pulling his face to hers for another kiss, "but I think I need a few more clues." As she kissed him sweetly. There they continued until for some time until their rational brains kicked in slightly and they searched for some answers.

"Lizzy, did you ever love Richard?" asked Will as they had finally settled to their favorite position, Lizzy with her against Will's chest and his arms wrapped around her.

"How could I when I was already in love with you." She said as she inhaled his wonderful smell.

"So, all this time I've been torturing myself for nothing?" he said with a sigh.

"...and don't forget torturing me, you don't know what kind of frights I was having about you and Ms. Morland in London; and to think that you had loved me even before you left. Why didn't you say anything."

"Because of Richard...and because I couldn't offer you anything, fortune nor security, all I could offer was my own worthless self."

"That's all I ever wanted," she said with an earnest smile as she drew his face down for a kiss, leading him to believe that the race of angels wasn't completely extinct.

So they sat entwined in each other's arms, conversing and kissing; an altogether romantic scene- well if you ignore the rather large hole in Will's t-shirt and Lizzy's fluffy pink slippers...

"Lizzy, I know that we haven't been romantically involved for very long...I think that it's bordered on a couple of hours now...but I love you, I always have...and don't be afraid to tell me that I'm rushing you...but I...will you marry me...I understand if you say no..."

"Will?"

"Yes, Lizzy?"

"My answer is yes"

"Lizzy, don't feel like you..."

"Will?"

"Yes, Lizzy?"

"Shut up and kiss me" Thankfully, Will was smart enough to listen to his brilliant fiance, he pulled out his mother's engagement ring from the pocket of his sweat pants- hey, Will may not be the most self-confident guy but he could at least hope- and slipped it on her finger.

"It belonged to one of my ancestors, her husband - I think he was the first Fitwilliam Darcy - gave it to her." It was indeed a beautiful ring, with a golden band and large, elegantly cut diamond, with the inscription To L, Forever, F , "It's rather appropriated don't you think?" he asked.

"It's perfect," she said as tears shone in her eyes, then turning to him with a wicked smile, "now how would you have explained this to Caroline?" to which Will elicited a small groan. "She's going to freak out now that you're on the way to regaining your fortune and you're 'marrying that vulgar Elisa Bennet'" she said with a laugh.

"I don't know how I could ever have been so blind?"

"To love Caroline?" she asked earnestly.

"No, to be prepared to marry Caroline when I was in love with you. You see Lizzy, the day at the airport when I picked you up, I knew that you were the one...no else even had a chance after that." For which he received a long, deep kiss from Lizzy as a reward.

"You know what the best part about all of this is?" she said as her eyes sparkled, "I won't have to move, and I hate moving." She said laughing.

"Yeah, but I might have to until the wedding, I don't think I could stand being under the same roof with you every night and not being...well with you." He said swallowing.

"I have a feeling it's not going to be that easy for me either." She said with a sigh.

"Well, I have a brilliant idea, let's start making up for all that lost time right now."

"That's why I love you Will, you're a brilliant guy." And with that ended the conversation for the evening for the mouths of the happy couple were...well...otherwise occupied.

X

Posted on Wednesday, 21 June 2000, at 7 : 46 p.m.

The months before the wedding were indeed torture for both the happy couples.

Georgie and Richard were separated by a few thousand miles; thereby intensifying their longing to be together. For Richard was moving his base of operations over to Boston for a few years, at least until Georgianna was finished with medical school. It was fortunate indeed that Darcy Ind. was on the mend for the phone bill alone would have broken a weaker financial base.

Yet for Lizzy and Will whose rooms were merely a few feet apart, the temptation was overpowering. Lizzy had taken to going to the small chapel on campus and saying a few Hail Mary's for strength everyday after class. Will was finally forced to exile himself to his old bachelor pad after he found himself bargaining with God for just one pre-marital indiscretion with Lizzy. The change was almost imperceptible for Will was still at Pemberley every waking hour he wasn't at work. Each minute apart they were found counting down until they could be together again.

In December Jane Bennet and Charles Bingley were to be joined in holy matrimony; Will was the Best Man and Lizzy the Maid of Honor. The wedding was held in Lizzy's hometown in Vermont, for Will it was a chance to become acquainted with a place dear to her heart as well as her family.

When Will and Lizzy arrived in Vermont it was blanketed in snow appearing as if it was very much the Winter Wonderland that Lizzy had often described. As they stepped outside of the car they had rented snowflakes were gently falling from the heavens and landing to rest lightly on their bare heads, Lizzy opened her mouth and tilted back her head catching the snowflakes on her tongue, she closed her mouth and smiled in pleasure. Will was so overcome with wonder not just at the beautiful scene surrounding them but at lovliness of the woman standing by his side. She took his hand in his and they began the treck up to her home, a large beautiful house situated on a small knoll.

"Will," she said stopping him before he entered the porch, "I want you to know that my family can be a little...well...a little peculiar. I just want to warn you before hand, but I know that they'll love you as much as I do," she said as she drew his head down for a kiss so intense it almost melted the snow in which they stood.

They were interrupted by the door to the house swinging open and a woman practically flying out from the door, "Lizzy, my dearest girl...Oh, my poor nerves he is so handsome...come inside it's freezing out here." She said ushering them into the foyer where Lizzy embraced her mother, "Mamma this is Will"

"It is a pleasure to meet you Mrs. Bennet" he said with a smile

"Call me Mamma," she said as she hugged him. Then turning to Lizzy, "Jane is out with Charles, she thought you two wouldn't come in till dinner, Lydia is out also but Kitty is here, Oh and as is Mary and you'll never guess, but I'll let Mary tell you."

"Lizzy," called a musical voice from above and a lovely girl about 18 or 19 slid down the banister and into her sister's arms. The sisterly reunion was joyous with each chattering and smiling, "Kitty this is Will my fiance'"

"So this is the famous Will, I've heard a lot about you; mostly good things." She said with a wicked grin. Will already liked this member of Lizzy's family.

Then she turned to Lizzy, "I have something to tell you; remember when I told you I was applying to Harvard for early admission," Lizzy nodded, "well, I got in! Come September I'm moving to Boston!" the excitement with which this was received by Lizzy was overwhelming, for one of her dearest sister's was coming to be closer to her! Soon Will and Kitty were chatting happily about the wonders of undergraduate life at Harvard.

"Lizzy is that you" called down a young woman from the head of the stairs.

"Mary!" cried Lizzy with surprise for in place of the awkward girl with greasy hair, thick glasses, and frumpy clothes stood a beautiful, elegant young woman. Lizzy recovered herself quickly as she ran up the stairs to greet her sister. "You look wonderful, let me look at you" the change was remarkable yet not just physical, true Mary had abandoned her thick glasses for contacts, let her chestnut hair go loose held merely with a ribbon as a headband, and procured some tasteful clothing that complimented her figure. However, she also had a glow that Lizzy saw reflected in her own face, Lizzy lowered her voice almost to a conspirital whisper, "You've met someone haven't you!" The blush that covered Mary's cheekbones was highly becoming.

"I met him at Oxford, he's in the last year of his Masters in Biochemical Engineering. He's half Italian half English but he grew up in Florence, Carlos Denny, he's so wonderful Lizzy I can't wait for you all to meet him, he's coming in tonight." She motioned downstairs to Will, "Is that him...wow Lizzy when you said he was gorgeous you didn't do him justice, he's practically a Greek god," said Mary in a whisper as they walked down the stairs.

"Will, I'd like you to meet my little sister Mary,"

"Ah yes, you're the one doing your Masters in Nuclear Physics at Oxford, how do you like it?"
"I love England, but I do miss the States, especially being close to home...and I miss the sunshine of California," then turning to Will, "I went to Cal-Tech for University." By this time they had all settled cosily into the living room and they continued chatting amiably until the entrance of Mr. Bennet, Charles, and Jane.

A great deal of hoopola, rejoicing and hearty congratulations later the family awaited the return of Lydia (with varying degrees of anticipation) and the arrival of Carlos Denny. The former arrived first bearing a bouquet of roses for Mrs. Bennet and a box of cigars for Mr. Bennet; the young man was very handsome, quite obviously bright, and extraordinarily nervous. Yet, the family soon put him at ease; by the time they had settled down for dinner the three young men had formed a unique friendship, and Mr. and Mrs. Bennet were thoroughly happy with the young men their daughters had chosen. The evening passed pleasantly without any major problems except the marked absence of Lydia and news that Caroline Bingly was arriving in the morning.

Will propped his boot onto the chair and laced it up with a sigh. 'Vermont is beautiful but what wouldn't I give to be someplace I could walk around in a t-shirt and shorts.' He thought as he pulled over yet another sweater over his head what he saw next almost knocked the breath out of him.

"Caroline."

"Hello Will," she purred as she stalked in - what she thought - was an extraordinarily seductive manner towards him.

"What are you doing in here?" he asked as he looked at her with some noticeable distaste 'how could I ever bear to be kissed by such a woman?' he asked himself.

"I came here to give you another chance Will, I came to take you back. Now tell me you didn't miss me." She said as she stroked her finger up his arm.

He brushed the finger away, "I didn't miss you Caroline, in fact I haven't even thought about you because I am in love with Lizzy, I have been since the second I saw her."

She scoffed, then noticed the earnest look in his eyes, "you're serious you're in love with that Ms. Elisa. Have you lost your mind, she's crude and she likes bowling...she's not our kind of people...we were meant to be together Willy-poo you know that." She said as she threw her arms around his neck

"No Caroline I don't know that, all I know is that I'm in love with Lizzy and that we are over!" he said as he attempted to dislodge her arms. Suddenly, he heard Lizzy's voice in the hallway and felt Caroline lunge at him, pressing her lips against his. His shock was only equaled by his desire to get her away! He pushed her body away from him and turned to see a shaken Lizzy at the doorway, her hand at her mouth. She turned and ran. He dislodged Caroline, and spat "It's over. Period." And ran after the love of his life, he expected her to be furious, to not speak to him, to run away, but what he saw next scared the living daylights out of him...

XI

Posted on Friday, 23 June 2000, at 12 : 16 a.m.

Lizzy sat there on a small wooden bench in the garden, her head uncovered, yet she appeared to not even notice the cold. Her eerie calm scared him, she seem resolved, focused. When she saw him she held up her hand as if to stop him from speaking. She swallowed and began with some trepidation, "when I saw you my first reflex was to run...to run away like a heroine in one of those romance stories...my mind was telling me to leave before I could get my heart broken. But my heart," she said as she looked at him her eyes filled with tears, "my heart...remember when I told you in the hospital that I believe in you...well, I don't just believe in your abilities Will. I believe in you, the person, the man. I know that you would never tell me that you loved me if you didn't mean it. I know that you would kiss Caroline if you had truly given your heart to me. I know that you love me...that's what my heart said Will. My heart told me to stay because I trust you. A marriage is built of trust and this was a test of it, I won't fail you, nor will I fail the bond between us by not trusting you. I love you Will...I want you to be happy...and if I'm wrong, wrong about everything...then I release you from this engagement. Now the ball is in your court, tell me Will am I right or am I wrong" She said as she held up the ring he gave her in the palm of her hand.

Will strode towards her and took the ring from her hand, her face fell. He took her hand and slipped it on her finger and kissed her with so much emotion that it overwhelmed her, "Never...Never doubt that I love you with every fiber of my being. You are everything to me Lizzy, everything." He said as he kissed her again.

"I love being right" she said a little breathlessly as he buried his face in her hair and lifted her up lightly off the bench and carried her inside out of the cold. It was fortuitous that the rest of the party chose this time to appear or else all the resolutions that Lizzy and Will had made to wait until marriage would have slowly slipped away.

6 months later...

The matron of honor clasped her hands in glee as she squealed in delight, "Lizzy you are a vision. I've never seen you look more beautiful." Indeed, her simple, princess cut strapless white gown set of her tan skin beautifully. Her net veil was studded with tiny rhinestones giving the appearance that a veil of diamonds covering her face and hair. The finishing touch was the magnificent diamond tiara, a Darcy family heirloom that crowned her head. Complete with a bouquet of ivory lilies and roses tied with a golden sash, and elbow length white gloves Lizzy looked every inch the princess.

"Thank you Janey...I dare say Charles will not have eyes for anyone but you though dearest." She said with a laugh for her sister looked beautiful as well in the golden chiffon bridesmaid's gowns, yet the recently acquired glow that a happy marriage and as yet to be announced pregnancy made her positively stunning.

"Yes, but my brother shall be totally enraptured with you." Cried Georgie hopeful that Richard would like her dress and anxious for the time six weeks hence when she too would waltz down the aisle with the man she loved.

"We all look lovely although I must say that you do top the list Lizzy," cried Kitty enthusiastically as they stood in the hall of Pemberley, awaiting their signal to exit the door and enter the garden where the wedding would be performed.

"Are you ready my dear?" asked Mr. Bennet as he took Lizzy's arm, "I cannot believe that I'm about to lose my little girl." Said he with a sad smile.

"Oh Pappa, you promised you wouldn't make my cry," she said laughing while her eyes began to fill with tears, "I love you and you'll never lose me." She said as she squeezed his arm.

"I don't think that you could find a young man worthier of you my child, I have a feeling that he'll make you very happy.

"Thank you Pappa, that means so much to me." She said as the music began and they stepped out the doors, into the sunlight, and towards Lizzy's new life.

The ceremony, the reception in the lawn, indeed the whole day had been beautiful and perfect. Now as the guests had gone home and the family retired for the night, Lizzy and Will made their way up the beautiful mahogany stairs together for the night before leaving for their honeymoon in Venice in the morning.

As Lizzy looked upon the room she would share with her handsome husband her eyes shone with happiness.

Will lifted his bride off her feet and carried her gently over the threshold whispering in her ear, "Welcome home Mrs. Darcy."

The End

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