Neither Money Nor Beauty

Blurb: Richard Fitzwilliam inherits a fortune from his aunt, and decides to settle at Netherfield in Hertfordshire, giving much excitement to the Bennet household. The life of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy are brought together and tied in a knot by circumstances of fate.

Prologue

A man and woman were sitting in Vauxhall Gardens. The woman was animated, talking. Her dark hair curly, her face far from classical beauty, however in her eyes there was the very essence of life. A sparkle shone in these brown eyes and it was a sparkle of joy. If one wanted to describe her, one should say, she was a freedom lover. There were green fields, coloured with flowers of all seasons in her deep brown eyes and a warm wind blew the high grass there and a girl was running across the fields and those were the girl's eyes.

Looking at her, one could say she was an ordinary English girl, no English Rose, no beauty but a simple girl with unforgettable eyes.

The man was looking at the woman sitting opposite to him. There was a try of understanding in his eyes but he was not convinced. It seemed that whatever she would say, and no matter how hard he would try, everything would be too improbable for him to believe in. Admiringly, he marvelled at her want to make him understand.

Chapter 1

"My dear Mr Bennet! I have news! Good news!" cried Mrs Bennet as soon as she caught up with him on the way back from the church.

Silence met her.

"Don't you want to know what I am to say?"

"My dear, you will say it anyway, so I'll just wait for it."

"Well, Mr Bennet," began his wife, too impatient to be vexed with her husband, "Netherfield is let at last."

Mr Bennet nodded.

"And you will never going to believe by whom?

"You will tell me, I am sure." Replied her husband

"His name is Richard Fitzwilliam and he is the son of Lord Matlock! Isn't it fine for our girls?"

"Is he not married?" asked Mr Bennet ironically, guessing to what his wife was referring and winked at his second oldest daughter - Elizabeth.

"Indeed, he is not! He has just quit the army as he had inherited a large sum from his aunt."

Mr Bennet did not reply.

"Maybe he'd take fancy in Jane or Lydia!" called Mrs Bennet, winking at Lydia, who began giggling and making faces to Kitty, who apparently had no chances of catching Mr Fitzwilliam's fancy, at least according to Mrs Bennet.

The Bennets were a respectable family in Herfordshire but having a misfortune of possessing no sons, did not enjoy the peace of mind which should come with a fair fortune. The estate of the family, called Longbourn was entailed away to a cousin of Mr Bennet, a Mr Collins and the five daughters of the family had nothing but 50 pounds a year to recommend themselves. You will start screaming at me that they had all the beauty they needed and even more! Before you do, listen for a while. In 1809, the mere 50 pounds a year shattered good marriage prospects, of no matter how beautiful a woman. Therefore the Bennet sisters were at best destined to marry clergymen with low connections.

However, Mrs Bennet harboured certain hopes that at least one of her girls would marry well and after Mr Bennet's death would take over responsibilities as the financial supporter of the family. You must know that when a woman marries, she marries a man, when a man marries, he marries her family. Therefore, Mrs Bennet had all the hopes that Mr Fitzwilliam be the man who will marry her (as family, of course).

Chapter 2

Early morning on October 1st, Mrs Phillips, Mrs Bennet's sister, entered Longbourn, calling:

"My dear Sister, I have news! Mr Fitzwilliam has come with a large party of friends."

"Are there other rich men in the party?" questioned her Mrs Bennet.

"Mrs Long has told me, he brought seven ladies and four gentlemen."

At that moment, Lydia ran into her mother's room:

"Mama, Maria Lucas has just told me, Mr Fitzwilliam is come and he brought a large party of friends. Six ladies and five gentlemen!"

Mrs Phillips looked slighted at such an impertinent manner of the youngest Bennet offspring but she continued:

"And Sister, Sir William Lucas is to invite them to the Assembly Rooms next week."

"Indeed, a splendid idea. I must tell Mr Bennet to call upon Mr Fitzwilliam." With that she ran out of the room, leaving Mrs Phillips and Lydia to themselves.

___________________________

Richard Fitzwilliam entered the Netherfield breakfast room and scanned it with satisfaction. He had never imagined that he would have a home of his own. He was a younger son of Lord Matlock and his older brother James was to inherit all of the family estates and titles. He, Richard, was supposed to seek his fortune in serving his country as a military man. Reality proved different. Once described as with neither money nor beauty, he was now in possession of a fair five thousand a year income. He could afford a house and choose a wife to his liking. Six months ago, his maternal aunt, Lady Margaret St. Brevis died in the age of eighty-two, surprisingly leaving everything she had to him. It made him a desirable offer on the London marriage market, and he, having not found a lady to his liking among the London young misses, decided to take a break from society and settle down in Hertfordshire, a nice county with country manners and no aspirations to be the centre of the world.

The breakfast room was still empty. No one has yet come down to breakfast but as soon as Richard was settled with a steaming plate in front of him, he heard steps and the door opened.

"Good morning, Georgiana. How are you this morning?"

"Very well, thank you cousin Richard." Replied the girl shyly taking the place the servant pointed to her.

"Did you sleep well? I hope the first night in my house, was not restless for you. I would be mostly disappointed if it were!" called Fitzwilliam, smiling broadly. He always tried to encourage Georgiana to be more open, and joking, he was sure, was the best way to do it.

"I slept very well, thank you. There is also a lovely prospect from my room."

"I'm glad you like it. Darcy always tells me how fond you are of beautiful sight, therefore I've asked the housekeeper to prepare for you a room with the most breathtaking view that Netherfield offers."

"You are so kind, Cousin. I don't deserve it, after..."

"Speak nothing of it. You deserve absolutely everything a human being can give you."

Georgiana smiled. She was about to say something, when the door opened and James Viscount Fitzwilliam and his wife Lady Susan came in.

"Georgiana, Richard, good morning to you." Called Lady Susan, kissing Georgiana in the cheek.

"James, Susan, how are you?"

"Very well. You've taken a beautiful house, Richard. Were we not living in Fitzwoodley, I would be jealous!" called James and both men burst into laughter.

"I see you are in jolly good moods!" said a male voice.

"We are indeed, Darcy." Replied Lady Susan.

"What made you so good-humoured?" inquired the man called Darcy.

"We were just saying that you were wrong saying that Fitzwilliam should take a house somewhere in the North." Teased James.

"I should have known you would be teasing me about it. But I was merely stating my opinion."

"Now, Darcy, don't be such a stiff upper lip. Admit that you like it here." Called Lady Susan.

"I will tell you that when I see 'here'." Replied Darcy

"You'll never change, will you, Darcy?" asked Fitzwilliam.

"Only time will show. What do you say to that?"

"Amen! And let's eat. I'm starving. Fosset, please bring Mr Darcy, a huge sausage so he can stuff himself with it." Replied Fitzwilliam and everyone, including Darcy and Georgiana laughed.

Chapter 3

When the Netherfield party entered the assembly room it consisted only of three all together - Mr Fitzwilliam, his older brother James and his wife - Lady Susan. Mr Fitzwilliam was not particularly handsome but very gentlemanlike; he had a pleasant countenance, and easy, unaffected manners. His brother was a tall handsome man in mid-thirties with a broad smile, which indicated his good nature and heart. Lady Susan seemed to be an energetic lady who matched her husband's wits.

Sir William Lucas welcomed the newly arrived, observed by everyone in the room. Elizabeth Bennet was standing together with Charlotte Lucas, Sir William's eldest daughter and Elizabeth's senior by four years. Charlotte was a rather plain girl, who possessed neither money nor beauty but was a down to earth realist who was fully aware that she had no chances of marrying well. Yet she was Elizabeth's closest friend and a welcomed companion of her solitary walks.

Richard scanned the room. The gathering was by no means as fine as those he partook in London but the ladies seemed pleasant. James was dancing with Susan and Fitzwilliam found himself standing in the corner. He wished he managed to persuade Darcy to join them but he felt he shouldn't press him, as it was for Georgian's sake that Darcy wanted to stay home. Fitzwilliam had his suspicions that Darcy did not wish to mix with people "below him" in status but this topic was a taboo in the family as Darcy always put down any discussions on it. It seemed funny, however, that although Darcy seemed to be preoccupied with his family status and connections, he did everything to avoid marriage with Cousin Anne de Bourgh who had the right connections and status. Fitzwilliam noticed that James left Susan with Sir William who was leading her to two young ladies standing in the corner of the room. His eyes moved form one lady to another, only to stop on the second one. A small smile ran through the corners of his lips as he slowly moved towards where Susan stood with the young ladies.

___________________________

Elizabeth and Charlotte were talking when Sir William and the newly arrived lady approached them.

"Miss Elizabeth, Charlotte, my dear, may I present Lady Susan Fitzwilliam. Mr Fitzwilliam's of Netherfield sister-in-law."

"A pleasure to meet you Lady Susan." Replied Elizabeth, while Charlotte curtsied her.

"The pleasure is all mine." Exclaimed Lady Susan. "As soon as I've entered I wanted to meet you. So I induced, Sir William here, to introduce me."

"Capital! Capital!" called Sir Lucas and went away, beckoned by his wife.

"So how do you like Hertfordshire, Lady Susan?" asked Elizabeth, already liking the open Lady Susan.

"So far I find it beautiful. We've been here but six days and I was able to take a walk only twice and we went hunting once, and visited Meryton once, so I still haven't seen much. Do you like walking, Miss Elizabeth?"

"I do. I find it mostly agreeable early in the morning."

"How early is early for you?" called Lady Susan.

"Before breakfast. At about eight or so."

"If I am a good girl and go to bed early, I might join you some time."

"And what is early for you, Lady Susan?" asked Elizabeth cheekily.

"I knew we'd understand each other!" laughed Lady Susan, "And please call me Susan."

"Only if you call me Elizabeth."

"So it's settled. And you, Charlotte, you don't mind my calling you by your first name?"

"No, of course, not." Replied Charlotte.

"You must call me Susan as well. Do you like walking as well, Charlotte?"

"I do. I'm not such a great walker as Lizzy is but I sometimes embark on a long walk."

"Splendid. You two must come to Netherfield for dinner and stay overnight, so that we can all go for a walk early in the morning. Elizabeth, you'll lead!"

"I can see, Susan that you are already enjoying yourself in the finest of company." Said a male voice from behind Elizabeth and Charlotte.

"Richard, let me introduce, Miss Elizabeth Bennet and Miss Lucas. Ladies, my brother-in-law, Richard Fitzwilliam. The proud owner of Netherfield, as you must already know, for such news could not be kept secret!" laughed Lady Susan.

"Susan, you naughty girl, you will scare off the ladies. I'm not proud. Don't mistake me for Darce!" cried Fitzwilliam

"Darce is a cousin of ours. He is a very good man though a little too stiff for certain tastes if you know what I mean." Explained Lady Susan winking at Elizabeth, who suppressed a smile.

"Miss Lucas, if you are not otherwise engaged, would you do me the honour of dancing with me the next dance?" asked Fitzwilliam, smiling at Charlotte.

"I'm not engaged. Thank you." Replied Charlotte totally taken aback. It was probably the first time in her life that a man asked for her hand in a dance when Elizabeth Bennet was an alternative.

Chapter 4

"Mr Bennet, what a horrible evening! I swear I will not attend another ball. Even if the Prince Regent, himself, was to attend!" cried Mrs Bennet on entering the parlour where Mr Bennet was enjoying a quite evening home.

"Why do think it so horrible, my dear?" asked Mr Bennet looking from behind the book.

"It's Mr Fitzwilliam! What an awful man!"

"Why so? I found him very interesting. Not so much as his cousin but still."

Elizabeth looked quizzically at Jane: A cousin? Who is the cousin? But before she could ask Mrs Bennet cried:

"Can you imagine, Mr Bennet, he danced with Charlotte twice! He preferred Charlotte to Jane and Lizzy! And that dreadful Lady Lucas prattled about it all evening. Look, Mrs Bennet, Mr Fitzwilliam seems to like my Charlotte. He is such a charming man! And what was I to say?"

"That you disagree and think her Charlotte a horror!" laughed Mr Bennet.

"Oh, Mr Bennet, you have no compassion for me!" She ran out of the room crying and calling Hill.

The rest of the family was left gathered around Mr Bennet. When the younger sisters decided to go upstairs, Lizzy asked her father:

"Papa, you have said that Mr Fitzwilliam has a cousin. We haven't seen him at the assembly. Has he left?"

"I can see, Lizzy that you are pained that you and your sisters lost the contest where Mr Fitzwilliam was the price, so you are hoping there will be another contest soon?"

"Papa, how can you?"

"There, there, Lizzy, just teasing you. Mr Fitzwilliam has a cousin who is staying with him at Netherfield, a Mr Darcy, if I remember correctly."

"Darce..." Darce is a cousin of ours. He is a very good man though a little too stiff for certain tastes if you know what I mean remembered Elizabeth.

"You said you liked him better." Asked she.

"Yes. He is a good sport. Awfully introvert, even proud, I'd say. When I said I liked him, I thought in terms of teasing."

"I see. Goodnight, papa."

"Goodnight, Lizzy."

___________________________

"What a lovely evening!" cried Richard entering the Netherfield breakfast room the next day.

"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself." Said Georgiana and looked at her brother.

"Darcy, you should have come with us, and so should you Georgiana." Said Lady Susan.

"I don't think..." began Darcy but Lady Susan interrupted him:

"I have invited Charlotte Lucas and Elizabeth Bennet to dine with us today."

"What a splendid idea, Sister. I should be very glad to introduce them to Darcy."

"Why?" inquired Darcy.

"Because they are very nice." Replied Lady Susan before Fitzwilliam managed to open his mouth.

"I, personally, couldn't help myself laughing, when you danced with that girl twice Richard. Her mother was on the verge of breaking into pieces. What makes me curious is, why on Earth did you dance with the plain one when her companion was available?" asked James

"I did it out of propriety. It was her father who invited us."

"Yes. Just why do I not believe you?"

"That's your problem, James, if you don't believe me." Replied Richard

As the party was leaving breakfast room, Darcy approached Lady Susan and asked:

"Susan, what was this all about?"

"I don't know if I should be telling you." Said she, winking at Georgiana.

"Susan..." a slight threat played in his voiced, mixed with sarcasm.

"I think Richard has fallen in love." Replied she and before Darcy was able to regain his wits from the sustained shock, she sailed off laughing, with Georgiana next to her.


Chapter 5

Lady Susan and Georgiana were in the sitting room. The gentlemen had gone fishing and they had themselves to entertain. Fortunately for both women, they liked each other and could spend hours talking. Lady Susan, seemed to the shy and introvert Georgiana, a goddess of high society, when she talked about the balls and dinners, she took part in during the winter. It was almost four and Lady Susan was growing impatient. She dearly wished, she could introduce Georgiana especially to Miss Elizabeth Bennet. She was sure Elizabeth would have a positive influence on her reserved cousin.

"How I wish, they would come already! It's not that your company, Georgiana, bores me, you know it! But I want you to meet Elizabeth, so much!"

"I see, you are very taken with the lady, Susan." Replied Georgiana.

"I admit, I am. And so you will be when you meet her. I swear I heard a carriage." Called Lady Susan and ran to the window. "It is Elizabeth and Charlotte! I'm so glad."

Georgiana was already nervous. She always imagined Lady Susan moving in the finest of circles with the finest ladies and the handsomest gentlemen. Ladies whom Lady Susan praised so much, had to be of the finest manner and breeding. Therefore, Georgiana had adopted a certain picture of Miss Elizabeth and the closer their meeting was, the more scared Georgiana was. Her only hope was that Lady Susan did not like Miss Bingley and her sister, Mrs Hurst, so at least Miss Elizabeth wasn't shrewish but nothing more could be guaranteed and Georgiana wished she could dissolve under the carpet.

"Miss Lucas and Miss Elizabeth Bennet." Announced the footman, waking Georgiana from her reverie.

"Elizabeth, Charlotte, how good to see you!" called Lady Susan. "Fosset, please take the trunks to guest rooms."

"Right away, Ma'am."

"Now," began Lady Susan, "let me introduce my cousin, Miss Georgianna Darcy. Georgiana, these are Miss Lucas and Miss Elizabeth Bennet." The Ladies acknowledged one another and Lady Susan call for some refreshments.

"It's a pleasure to meet you." Began Georgiana. "My cousin told me so much about you."

"I hope she wasn't severe on us." Replied Elizabeth smiling.

"Oh, no. She told me only good things." Quickly responded Georgiana, and Elizabeth sensed her young interlocutor was terribly insecure.

"Miss Darcy, would you be so kind as to show me that beautiful instrument that stands in the corner, over there?" asked Elizabeth with a warm smile.

"It will be a pleasure." Miss Darcy's eyes lit up and Elizabeth knew she had hit the right string. It was necessary to assure Miss Darcy that there was nothing to be worried about.

Meanwhile Lady Susan returned to the parlour.

"I see you have already become friends. I'm so glad."

"Miss Darcy has just showed me this instrument." Elizabeth pointed at it.

"Well, you have found Miss Darcy's weakness. She is very fond of music." Answered lady Susan, "And she plays marvellously!"

"I do not play very well. Susan is just being nice."

"Now, I believe I have a solution. Miss Darcy will play for us after dinner and Charlotte and I will vote who is right." Laughed Elizabeth.

"Charlotte, you are very quiet. Why is that so?" asked Lady Susan.

"I find great pleasure in listening to others talk. It is always very interesting, especially when things, which were not to be said, are being said involuntarily."

"And so we have been the object of your sport, my dear. Did we provide good entertainment?" asked Lady Susan.

"I didn't mean it as an offence."

"I know Charlotte but I wanted to tease you. I have a every strange belief that you are being nervous."

"I assure you, I am not." Replied Charlotte slightly blushing.

Neither Lady Susan nor Elizabeth managed to reply as the door opened and two men walked in.

"How good of you to come back already. But where have you lost Darcy?" enquired Lady Susan.

"We've had enough of fishing, my dear." Replied her husband.

"And as for Darcy, I have no idea where he could be." Said Richard.

"How so, Cousin? What happened?" cried Georgiana

"Do not worry, he has left us a little earlier, claiming he had some business in Meryton to attend to. I believe he should be back by dinner." Reassured her Richard.

"James, Richard, you do remember Miss Lucas and Miss Elizabeth from yesterday." Said Lady Susan. Until then, Richard Fitzwilliam had not noticed Charlotte sitting on the sofa behind Lady Susan.

"Good evening to you, ladies. I'm glad you have accepted my sister's invitation to come to dinner and stay overnight. She was terribly anxious this morning that she had to postpone that walk till tomorrow."

"Good evening." Replied both ladies, Charlotte slightly blushing and allowing herself a small smile towards Mr Fitzwilliam.

"I believe we should all go and change before dinner. Georgiana, will you show Miss Lucas and Miss Elizabeth their rooms?"

"Certainly." Replied Georgiana.

___________________________

Meanwhile at Longbourn, Mrs Bennet was telling Lady Lucas.

"I'm so glad Lizzy is gone to Netherfield for I heard that Mr Fitzwilliam's cousin, a Mr Darcy, has twice his income and a grand estate in Derbyshire."

"I must say, I can already picture Charlotte as mistress of Netherfield. And Mr Fitzwilliam is so handsome. Mr Darcy may have twice his income but you should be careful with the looks. He may be ugly and with a gout."

"A gout! Now Lady Lucas, you don't have gout when you are eight and twenty."

"I have heard that Duke of Whit____ had a gout at the age of five and twenty." Assured her Lady Lucas and Mrs Bennet said:

"You must remember one thing though, Lady Lucas. Your Charlotte is not yet Mrs Fitzwilliam and we all know what there is between the lips and the edge of a glass."

Lady Lucas wasn't sure what Mrs Bennet meant but knowing her all those years, she was sure there was meanness in that expression.

"Well, I must be going, Mrs Bennet."

"Goodbye, Lady Lucas."

___________________________

Miss Darcy had told Elizabeth that dinner would be served at seven in the dining room of the ground floor. It was five to seven now and Elizabeth was walking down the stairs. The hall was empty but there was a number of doors, all closed. Elizabeth stopped trying to judge which door could lead to where.

"May I be of assistance, Ma'am?" asked a male voice from behind.

"Thank you. I believe I may be in need of some assistance. Miss Darcy has told me that the supper was at seven but she forgot to tell me how to get there."

"Come with me, please."


He led her to towards the door on the left-hand side. How strange, he did not introduce himself. He doesn't look like a servant certainly, so it must be Mr Darcy then. thought Elizabeth as they entered the dinning room.

"Elizabeth, I can see, you've met our dear Darcy." Greeted her Lady Susan.

Elizabeth smiled and Lady Susan realised what happened:

"Darcy, and you haven't introduced yourself to the lady properly. Miss Elizabeth Bennet, Mr Darcy."

"Pleasure to meet you, Sir."

Darcy curtsied her rather stiffly and walked to the table, leaving Elizabeth with rather strange expression on the face. One could say it was a mixture of sarcasm and slight distaste. Lady Susan seemed to notice it, so she swiftly changed the subject asking Darcy:

"Mr Fitzwilliam tells me, that you have been to Meryton this afternoon.”

"I... I went to fetch something for Georgiana." Replied Darcy and Elizabeth instinctively knew he was lying. In other circumstances she would even be willing to help him by changing the subject but Mr Darcy seemed so convinced that he could do everything on his own and his own way that Elizabeth decided not to say a word. At that moment Richard and Charlotte entered the room, talking. Elizabeth noticed that Darcy had a horrified expression on his face.

"Good evening to all." Said their host. "We've met on the stairs and I decided to show Miss Lucas the pool room before dinner."

Elizabeth noticed that Darcy moved closer to Sir James and whispered something into his ear, what made Sir James smile lustfully. Mr Darcy seemed to be the worst kind of society man, whom propriety left long ago.

The dinner began. Elizabeth was seated next to Miss Darcy and opposite to her brother. For most part of the evening he did not utter one single word. Had Elizabeth been able to see Miss Darcy's face, she would have known that something was wrong with Mr Darcy.

The ladies went to sit in the main parlour while the gentlemen enjoyed their port. When they joined the ladies, Elizabeth induced Georgiana to play. The girl was terribly shy and didn't want but Elizabeth convinced her saying that only she could give justice to the instrument. As Georgiana played, Elizabeth noticed Mr Darcy was staring at herself. There was a blank expression on his face but his eyes rarely quitted their object and if they did it was only to look at Georgiana. Elizabeth could not make out anything of this look so she decided he was looking to find a blemish, especially that there was from time to time a flicker of distaste running across his face. Meanwhile Charlotte and Richard Fitzwilliam were talking in the corner of the room by the window. Elizabeth rejoiced that Charlotte found such a fine admirer.

When Georgiana finished her song, she asked Elizabeth to play. As she turned to sit behind the instrument, she was sure, she saw a faint smile running across Mr Darcy's lips. You want to laugh me out? Do if you dare! she smiled with self contentment and began a lively air.

When she finished, she went to sit next to Lady Susan who was in conversation with her husband and Georgiana. Mr Darcy sat silently. Elizabeth picked up a book and started reading.

"Elizabeth, I will not let you read!" cried Lady Susan. "We must have some conversation or you will think that we are all like Darcy here!"

Elizabeth smiled, and Darcy bowed towards Lady Susan:

"My dear Susan, I know you love making your sport of me. I shall not prevent you." Replied he with a sarcastic grin.

"And I was hoping for some lively conversation." Playfully whined Lady Susan.

"Are you saying that you cannot have lively conversation with your husband?" cried Sir James.

"Oh, James, it is terribly difficult to tease you because you laugh at whatever I tell you! Darcy, on the other hand is always very serious. A perfect object for a teaser. Shall we tease him Miss Bennnet?"

"Tease, Mr Darcy, you certainly make it sound as if it would indeed be a great feast of pleasure." Replied Elizabeth.

"Very well then. Darcy, pray tell us why do you sit so silently in the company of so many young and beautiful ladies?" began Lady Susan.

"I..I am not apt to entertaining them."

"Not feel apt!" cried Lady Susan.

"Mr Darcy apparently had never heard about a saying: practise makes a master." Said Elizabeth.

"A point for you, Elizabeth." Said Lady Susan, "What have you to answer, Mr Darcy?"

"Only this that Miss Bennet is not entirely correct. I know that saying but..."

"You would not give yourself the trouble of exercising it." Called Richard Fitzwilliam.

"My cousin is always right." Replied Darcy.

"If you will excuse me. I believe I shall retire now." Said Georgiana standing up.

"Oh dear, it's so late already. I believe we shall all retire if we are to go for a morning walk tomorrow." Said Lady Susan and taking Elizabeth and Charlotte with her, followed Georgiana leaving the gentlemen to themselves.

___________________________

"Darcy what on Earth happened to you this afternoon. Where did your humour go?"

"Fitzwilliam, there is nothing to laugh about. I've received an express from militia headquarters. Wickham will station at Meryton."

Chapter 6

"And what do you say, Lizzy?" asked Charlotte as they were returning to Longbourn in the carriage. The morning walk with lady Susan, surprisingly joined by Georgiana Darcy proved to be delightful. There was almost not a second passed without conversation and when there was a moment of silence, it was a companionable one. They stayed till after lunch at Netherfield and set out on the journey back.

"Why are you silent?" asked Charlotte.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I was thinking."

"What about?"

"About our visit, of course. What a pity the gentlemen were out since early morning." Said Elizabeth thoughtfully.

"Yes." Replied Charlotte.

"Just a 'yes'. I thought a certain gentleman, you found very pleasing."

"Stop it, Lizzy."

"And I dare say, he was just as pleased."

"You really think so?" asked Charlotte emphatically.

"Yes. I don't think he would show his pool room to every girl." Laughed Lizzy.

"But have you seen the expression that Mr Darcy and Sir James had on their faces when we entered?"

"I wouldn't care about it one bit. Sir James seems to be a reasonable man if he chose a wife like Lady Susan but of Mr Darcy I have no good opinion."

"Why? True, he seemed distant and maybe aloof but his 10,000 pounds..."

"Stop, Charlotte, you sound like my mother!" cried Elizabeth. "I can't think that there is a such a difference between himself and his sister. She is a nice, though shy, girl."

"Maybe, we are mistaken. Maybe..."

"Charlotte, are you personalising my whole family? It's Jane who always says things like that. I think Mr Darcy a proud and distant man, and that is why his sister is so shy. She is always overwhelmed by him and is afraid he might scorn her if she says something wrong."

"Lizzy, don't start with these theories of yours. You hardly know the man. He might have had a bad day or something. You remember Lady Susan saying at the assembly, that he is a good man though may seem proud at times."

"Charlotte not a word more. I can see my mother in front of the house and if she hears I dislike Mr Darcy I'll have her yelling at me that I did not secure him and that you are going to be married first etc."

Charlotte laughed.

___________________________

The afternoon was spent by the Longbourn ladies on extracting news about the Netherfield party. Mrs Bennet seemed to be in want of knowing everything about how Lizzy liked Mr Darcy and what progress has Charlotte made with Mr Fitzwilliam. The news of Mr Fitzwilliam showing Charlotte his poolroom was shocking for Mrs Bennet:

"I tell you, Charlotte is not a good, decent girl. I've told it Lady Lucas a long time ago. I told her: Lady Lucas, you should have a close eye on Charlotte. She is a still water. And you just never know with them. To be shown a poolroom by a strange man."

"I believe you wouldn't mind, Mr Fitzwilliam showing the poolroom to Lizzy." Said Mr Bennet.

"What are you saying, Mr Bennet?" asked his wife.

"Oh, nothing." Replied he, getting up and leaving the room.

___________________________

Later in the evening Jane knocked on Lizzy's door.

"Can I come in?"

"Of course, you can."

"Is Mr Darcy really that dreadful?" asked Jane

"Well, he doesn't like me nor do I like him."

"That doesn't say much."

His cousin told us, he was a good man though proud at times. I find him proud. I cannot stay if he is good or not. I know little of him but he doesn't strike me as someone who has his heart on his hand. I think his sister is afraid of him. Charlotte convinces me that he might have had just a bad day but I don't think so."

"Lizzy, promise me you will not be prejudiced."

"Very well. I'll do my best but when you meet with him you'll tell me what you think about him and if your opinion will not be high, you will not try to make me like him."

"Fair enough. Goodnight. Sleep well, sister."

"You, too, my dear Jane."

Chapter 7

The carriage drove the Longbourn family to Lucas Lodge. Lizzy, squeezed between Jane and the carriage wall stared out of the window. She remembered Charlotte's letter which arrived a week ago.

Dear Lizzy,

Father has just informed me that he plans on giving a small ball. You should receive an official invitation but I wanted to tell you first. An invitation was already despatched to Netherfield. Oh, how I wish Mr Fitzwilliam accepted it.

I must finish now. Mother wants me now.

Yours etc.

She truly rejoiced that Charlotte had such a good marriage prospect. Except Jane, Charlotte was the person deserving a good marriage most. Yet deep in heart, Lizzy was asking when was her turn to come. She didn't care so much about money and position. She just wanted to marry for love but there seemed to be no one whom she could love. The gentlemen in the neighbourhood were nice but that was all that could be said about them and she wanted someone different, someone special, but then it seemed they no longer produced them. Her reverie was broken when the carriage stopped:

"Come, child. Hurry!" called Mrs Bennet practically dragging Elizabeth out of the carriage.

Lucas Lodge was well illuminated and as soon as the Bennets entered, Mrs Long whispered to Mrs Bennet ear that the whole Netherfield party was expected.

"And you must know, my dear Mrs Bennet that Mr Fitzwilliam visited the Lucases twice this week." She continued.

"No! It cannot be! Has he come to see Charlotte?"

"That is what Lady Lucas claims but I have my own opinion about it." Both ladies disappeared from Elizabeth's sight. Lydia and Kitty were talking to some officers. Mary sat on a sofa with an expression of distaste on her face.

"Smile, Elizabeth." Whispered Jane. "I haven't seen you so pensive for years." Before Elizabeth could reply, there was a tumult at the door and the Netherfield party entered. Mr Fitzwilliam appeared to be happy to find himself among his new friends, so did Lady Susan and Sir James. Georgiana Darcy looked frightened as she clutched her brother's arm The latter, however, seemed to be doing his best not to show how horrified he was. Sir William greeted his new guests. Mr Fitzwilliam went straight away to Charlotte who was sitting on a sofa, next to Mary and beamed at him with a lovely smile. Lady Susan and her husband stood in the row of dancers alongside Lydia, Kitty and some two officers. Mr Darcy and his sister stood where they were left by the others. Elizabeth noticed Darcy looking at her but as soon as he caught her glance at him, turned his head and began scanning the group of redcoats. Miss Darcy whispered something to her brother's ear and he reluctantly released her arm. Elizabeth was happy that the young lady decided to approach them.

"Good evening. Elizabeth."

"Georgiana, how good to see you. May I present my sister, Jane. Jane, Miss Georgiana Darcy."

"It is a pleasure to meet Elizabeth's sister. Please call me Georgiana."

"The pleasure is mine and do call me Jane."

The conversation between the three continued without convening much meaning till Jane was asked to dance and Georgiana ventured:

"I can see that my cousin is besotted with Charlotte." and turned red at the thought that she might have said something improper.

"So it would seem. I hope you do not disapprove?" asked Elizabeth.

"No. I am very happy. Charlotte seems very nice. How I wish to have a sister!" Elizabeth did not reply and Georgiana, after a pause continued: "Lady Susan brought me here last week, so that I could meet the rest of the family. I found them charming but I must admit that I was afraid of doing something wrong."

"Of that you mustn't be worried. You are high society here, you can do nothing wrong." Laughed Lizzy, but seeing that Georgiana became slightly on guard said: "I was just jesting. I am sorry to cause you any discomfort."

"It is not that. It's just that I am not used to such discussions. I do not mix with society much. I am not used to refined conversation."

"Nor am I but I find that laughing with small amounts of teasing and cheekiness serves you well."

"Miss Bennet is full of quick replies." Said a male voice with a sarcastic note in it.

"Good evening, Mr Darcy. I am well, thank you." Replied Elizabeth and Darcy laughed.

"How are you?" asked Elizabeth.

"Exceedingly well. Especially in company of such ladies." Replied he gallantly but Elizabeth wasn't sure if he wasn't criticising her.

Mr Fitzwilliam and Charlotte approached them.

"Darcy, I'm glad to see you enjoying yourself." Called Fitzwilliam.

"I've decided to follow Miss Bennet's advice. She once told me that only practice makes a master. Yet speaking of it, I was lately wondering what is it that makes a mistress then?"

"There was a moment of silence which to everyone seemed very long. Fitzwilliam was wondering if it was Darcy's intent to slight Charlotte or Elizabeth. Elizabeth was sure that the comment was meant to slight Charlotte. Georgiana knew there was something wrong in what her brother said. Charlotte felt small and uncertain, feeling that it was aimed at her. Darcy was happy that his remark that had just entered his head caused such an effect, especially on Miss Bennet.

"Maybe I will venture to explain that problem to Mr Darcy." Began Elizabeth in a playful voice: "Mr Darcy already seems to think that I may be a specialist in the matter. Don't you, Mr Darcy."

"Miss Bennet, I did..."

"Don't worry. I shall explain though your presumption is rather out of place and far from the truth. But then I suppose that fine society entertains itself with such games. If you expect me to say that it takes a need to make a mistress, you shall be disappointed in my answer. It takes a man to make a mistress. And a man like yourself I presume." She smiled and walked away leaving everyone in a state of shock.

Chapter 8

Everyone looked at Elizabeth walking away from the group. It was when she disappeared in the crowd of the next room that Fitzwilliam took hold of Darcy's arm and hissed:

"We need to talk." And led him out of the room, towards the hall.

"What the hell were you thinking, Darcy? What were you doing? Do you have to go around slighting people! What's got into you since we came here!" bellowed Fitzwilliam as soon as they found themselves alone.

"I can explain!" said Darcy.

"It better be a good explanation because you slighted both Miss Lucas and Miss Bennet."

"I haven't thought about it."

"What?!" cried Fitzwilliam

"I promised Georgiana that I'll be sociable and try to remove the bad impression I made on Miss Bennet when she was staying with us. And I knew she liked interesting conversation, so I thought up that I would recall what she told me earlier and..."

"And you've decided to say what you have said."

"Yes, and I am sorry. I meant no offence. I just wanted to "welcome the people with open arms" as you put it once."

"Darcy, you are incorrigible. You do realise how it was understood?"

"Yes." Darcy blushed. "But I never meant it. Yesterday when I was going to bed, I was desperately trying to think up something interesting to say to Miss Bennet. It could not have been, what book have you read as of late or something of the sort..."

"It would be much better if you asked about books!" replied Richard.

"But then ladies of my acquaintance do not read books!"

"Don't change the subject, Darcy. It would be better if you got acquainted with Miss Bennet. You might have found out that she does read."

"How do you know?"

"Char... Miss Lucas told me." Darcy grinned inside. "But don't you dare change the subject! I suggest you go and apologise."

"I will. Let's go to Miss Lucas and I'll explain everything to her."

______________________________

"So Miss Lucas, will I be forgiven. I have never meant what was said, I was just..." these words could not pass through his lips.

"He was trying to impress Miss Bennet." Supplied Fitzwilliam.

Charlotte smiled warmly and said: "I cannot say that it was the best of tries."

"Miss Lucas, I believe I should go and apologise to Miss Bennet." Said Darcy soberly.

"I'm afraid you cannot. She left while you were speaking with Mr Fitzwilliam. She took the carriage..."

"But her family is still here." Said Darcy.

"Yes. She said she'll send the carriage as soon as she will be home back."

"I see." Replied Darcy and lapsed into silence.

"I believe that if you want to apologise to her, you should call on her tomorrow and explain..."

"Darcy, Fitzwiliam, what was that all about?" asked Lady Susan, who just approached the group.

"Later, Susan." Replied Fitzwiliam.

"Why did Elizabeth depart so abruptly? Asked Lady Susan when she found herself alone in company of Georgiana:

"I'm afraid my brother said something dreadful and..."

"What did he say, pray."

"He meant nothing wrong but he said..." here Georgiana, blushing furiously whispered her brother's words to Lady Susan's ear.

"No!" exclaimed the lady. "It cannot be! I must have a word with him."

"Susan, no, please. I think he suffers already."

"And so he should!"

"He explained everything. He said he wanted to impress Miss Bennet."

"Has Elizabeth forgiven him?" asked Lady Susan.

"He did not speak with her."

"So to whom?"

"To Charlotte. It sounded as if my brother disapproved of cousin Richard's attachment to Charlotte."

"Oh, dear!" moaned Lady Susan. "What is to be done now?"

"My cousin told my brother to go and apologise to Miss Bennet."

"I have serious doubts if he does it." Georgiana looked distressed. "I do not mean that your brother is heartless but he may have got scared and... well, anyway, I believe we should pay a visit to Longbourn tomorrow and do our best. Come, my dear, it's time we left as well. Let's find my husband. I cannot enjoy myself, knowing what happened."

Chapter 9

The fresh, morning rays of the sun hit Longbourn and lit the second eldest daughter's of the house face. She was sleeping, tired by the tears she cried last evening. She felt humiliated, as she had never been before. She had cried until a wee hour of the morning of unexplainable sorrow, grief and the Lord only knows of what else, but she cried and cried and cried.

A soft knock on the door did not wake her.

"I believe she is still sleeping, mama." Said Jane on entering the breakfast parlour.

"What will become of this girl?" shrieked Mrs Bennet but no one ventured a reply.

"My dear, I hope you have ordered a good dinner for tonight." Stated Mr Bennet.

"Why so?" replied his wife.

"We are to have a guest..."

"A guest! Who is it? Mr Fitzwilliam?'

"No, it is a man I've never met in my entire life."

"Colonel Foster!" exclaimed Lydia.

"No..."

"Denny!"

"No, it is my cousin Mr Collins who will inherit the house after I am dead and will be in capacity to through you out of the house."

"Oh, my nerves." Moaned Mrs Bennet.

"Calm yourself. You may feel consoled after you hear what he writes."

______________________________

The breakfast was over and the family members found different occupations for themselves. Apart from Mrs Bennet who was already envisioning one of her daughters married to Mr Collins and Jane who wanted to convey news to Elizabeth, no one paid any attention to Mr Collins's arrival.

"Lizzy, are you awake." Whispered Jane, silently entering Lizzy's bedroom.

"Mmhm." Came a moan from the bed.

"Do you now what time it is?"

"Nohoo"

"Almost 10."

"10! It cannot be!" exclaimed Elizabeth suddenly awake.

"Yes. How are you?"

"Better."

"Lizzy, tell me what really happened yesterday? Lady Susan was greatly displeased with Mr Darcy and I've heard her say that he should have thought twice before saying such hateful things. What was it all about?"

"Mr Darcy slighted Charlotte and I had to defend her. Oh, Jane, I am now afraid that even if he was the one who said hateful things, I should have showed more class and not enter into conversation with him. I'm afraid that what I said was distasteful."

"Don't you want to tell me what happened?"

"Oh, Jane." Whined Elizabeth and proceeded to tell the story.

"I cannot believe he said that. He must have not meant it. I am sure."

"Jane, I know he meant it. When Charlotte and I were in Netherfield, he made remarks about Charlotte growing closer to Mr Fitzwilliam. But do you think I've acted in an unladylike manner?"

"No, Lizzy. You had every right to be offended. Charlotte was your friend. I admit what you said was... strong."

"Oh, no, Jane! Do not try to console me. It was too strong. I was being vulgar."

"No! Lizzy, there is nothing to be worried about. We'll make you a lovely hairdo now and you'll feel much, much better."

Elizabeth hugged her sister and gave her a kiss: "I love you, Jane and I hope that everyone in your life will love you, just like you deserve it."

"Stop it, Lizzy. Oh, I've almost forgot. Our Cousin Mr Collins arrives this afternoon for a visit. He hinted he wanted to marry one of us."

"Is he sensible?"

"I don't think so and Papa had laughed at his letter."

"I guess I can imagine what's he like. Short with sleazy look and wet hands."

"Lizzy!" exclaimed Jane and burst into laughter.

______________________________

Lady Susan Fitzwilliam and Miss Georgiana Darcy were announced an hour later in Longbourn. Jane and Lizzy were the ones to greet them. Mary was in her room reading, Kitty and Lydia outdoors and Mrs Bennet was having a nap.

"Lizzy, how good to see you." Called Lady Susan "I must speak straightforward with you." My cousin's words last night were to his greatest disadvantage. I just don't understand what's got into him. I am truly mortified."

"Susan, you have nothing to be mortified about. Every one, who knows you, will think of you nothing but the best. Mr Darcy's behaviour cannot influence my opinion of anyone in the family."

"But Elizabeth, you will think ill of my brother!" called Georgiana in a tearful tone.

"Georgiana, your brother doesn't like me, and I am afraid I harbour no warm feelings for him. You have nothing to worry about, I'll be perfectly civil to him but nothing more."

"But Lizzy..." whined Georgiana.

"This is all. It will be for the best if we act as if nothing had happened. You'll be my friends if you want to be them but say nothing more of Mr Darcy."

Georgiana had a sad expression on her face: "Lizzy, he just wanted to..."

"Georgiana, please, I will call for some tea and we'll be able to chat a little." Elizabeth left to ring for tea, and Lady Susan, Georgiana as well as Jane exchanged sad looks.

Chapter 10

Darcy placed a letter addressed to Miss Elizabeth Bennet on the drawer in the hall where all the letters used to be put for the servants to post them. He considered handing the letter personally but decided that the lady might throw it away without reading, if she knew who the author was. The letter contained an apology and expressed hope that they could start their acquaintance from the beginning. After contemplating the letter, lying on the drawer for a while, Darcy walked away to the library. When the door to the library closed behind him, Richard's dog, a huge Labrador named Wickman, ran into the hall. He was chasing two kittens. The little ones, light and swift managed to change direction just before the drawer but the big heavy dog hit the drawer. The letters lying on drawer fell down. The servant chasing the animals stopped in order to pick them up but he didn't know that one letter slid behind the drawer. It was the letter addressed to Miss Elizabeth Bennet.

______________________________

Meanwhile in Longbourn, Mrs Bennet was in uproar about Mr Collins's arrival. When the young man descended from his hired carriage, as he announced it to the gathered Bennet family, soon after he greeted them, he scanned his fair cousins. He had not been long seated before he complimented Mrs. Bennet on having so fine a family of daughters, said he had heard much of their beauty, but that, in this instance, fame had fallen short of the truth; and added, that he did not doubt her seeing them all in due time well disposed of in marriage. This gallantry was not much to the taste of some of his hearers, but Mrs. Bennet who quarrelled with no compliments, answered most readily,

"You are very kind, sir, I am sure; and I wish with all my heart it may prove so; for else they will be destitute enough. Things are settled so oddly."

"You allude, perhaps, to the entail of this estate."

"Ah! sir, I do indeed. It is a grievous affair to my poor girls, you must confess. Not that I mean to find fault with _you_, for such things, I know, are all chance in this world. There is no knowing how estates will go when once they come to be entailed."

"I am very sensible, madam, of the hardship to my fair cousins, -- and could say much on the subject, but that I am cautious of appearing forward and precipitate. But I can assure the young ladies that I come prepared to admire them. At present I will not say more, but perhaps when we are better acquainted -- "

He was interrupted by a summons to dinner; and the girls smiled on each other. They were not the only objects of Mr. Collins's admiration. The hall, the dining-room, and all its furniture were examined and praised; and his commendation of every thing would have touched Mrs. Bennet's heart, but for the mortifying supposition of his viewing it all as his own future property. The dinner too, in its turn, was highly admired; and he begged to know to which of his fair cousins, the excellence of its cookery was owing. But here he was set right by Mrs. Bennet, who assured him with some asperity that they were very well able to keep a good cook, and that her daughters had nothing to do in the kitchen. He begged pardon for having displeased her. In a softened tone she declared herself not at all offended; but he continued to apologise for about a quarter of an hour.

During dinner, Mr. Bennet scarcely spoke at all; but when the servants were withdrawn, he thought it time to have some conversation with his guest, and therefore started a subject in which he expected him to shine, by observing that he seemed very fortunate in his patroness. Lady Catherine de Bourgh's attention to his wishes, and consideration for his comfort, appeared very remarkable. Mr. Bennet could not have chosen better. Mr. Collins was eloquent in her praise. The subject elevated him to more than usual solemnity of manner, and with a most important aspect he protested that he had never in his life witnessed such behaviour in a person of rank -- such affability and condescension, as he had himself experienced from Lady Catherine. She had been graciously pleased to approve of both the discourses which he had already had the honour of preaching before her. She had also asked him twice to dine at Rosings, and had sent for him only the Saturday before, to make up her pool of quadrille in the evening. Lady Catherine was reckoned proud by many people he knew, but _he_ had never seen any thing but affability in her. She had always spoken to him as she would to any other gentleman; she made not the smallest objection to his joining in the society of the neighbourhood, nor to his leaving his parish occasionally for a week or two, to visit his relations. She had even condescended to advise him to marry as soon as he could, provided he chose with discretion; and had once paid him a visit in his humble parsonage; where she had perfectly approved all the alterations he had been making, and had even vouchsafed to suggest some herself, -- some shelves in the closets up stairs.

"That is all very proper and civil I am sure," said Mrs. Bennet, "and I dare say she is a very agreeable woman. It is a pity that great ladies in general are not more like her. Does she live near you, sir?"

"The garden in which stands my humble abode is separated only by a lane from Rosings Park, her ladyship's residence."

"I think you said she was a widow, sir? has she any family?"

"She has one only daughter, the heiress of Rosings, and of very extensive property."

"Ah!" cried Mrs. Bennet, shaking her head, "then she is better off than many girls. And what sort of young lady is she? is she handsome?"

"She is a most charming young lady indeed. Lady Catherine herself says that in point of true beauty, Miss De Bourgh is far superior to the handsomest of her sex; because there is that in her features which marks the young woman of distinguished birth. She is unfortunately of a sickly constitution, which has prevented her making that progress in many accomplishments which she could not otherwise have failed of; as I am informed by the lady who superintended her education, and who still resides with them. But she is perfectly amiable, and often condescends to drive by my humble abode in her little phaeton and ponies."

"Has she been presented? I do not remember her name among the ladies at court."

"The state of health unhappily prevents her from being in town; and by that means, as I told Lady Catherine myself one day, has deprived the British court of its brightest ornament. Her ladyship seemed pleased with the idea, and you may imagine that I am happy on every occasion to offer those little delicate compliments which are always acceptable to ladies. I have more than once observed to Lady Catherine that her charming daughter seemed born to be a duchess, and that the most elevated rank, instead of giving her consequence, would be adorned by her. -- These are the kind of little things which please her ladyship, and it is a sort of attention which I conceive myself peculiarly bound to pay."

"You judge very properly," said Mr. Bennet, "and it is happy for you that you possess the talent of flattering with delicacy. May I ask whether these pleasing attentions proceed from the impulse of the moment, or are the result of previous study?"

"They arise chiefly from what is passing at the time, and though I sometimes amuse myself with suggesting and arranging such little elegant compliments as may be adapted to ordinary occasions, I always wish to give them as unstudied an air as possible."

Mr. Bennet's expectations were fully answered. His cousin was as absurd as he had hoped, and he listened to him with the keenest enjoyment, maintaining at the same time the most resolute composure of countenance, and, except in an occasional glance at Elizabeth, requiring no partner in his pleasure. By tea-time, however, the dose had been enough, and Mr. Bennet was glad to take his guest into the drawing-room again, and when tea was over, glad to invite him to read aloud to the ladies. Mr. Collins readily assented, and a book was produced; but on beholding it (for every thing announced it to be from a circulating library), he started back, and begging pardon, protested that he never read novels. -- Kitty stared at him, and Lydia exclaimed. -- Other books were produced, and after some deliberation he chose Fordyce's _Sermons_. Lydia gaped as he opened the volume, and before he had, with very monotonous solemnity, read three pages, she interrupted him with, "Do you know, mama, that my uncle Philips talks of turning away Richard, and if he does, Colonel Forster will hire him. My aunt told me so herself on Saturday. I shall walk to Meryton to-morrow to hear more about it, and to ask when Mr. Denny comes back from town." Lydia was bid by her two eldest sisters to hold her tongue; but Mr. Collins, much offended, laid aside his book, and said,

"I have often observed how little young ladies are interested by books of a serious stamp, though written solely for their benefit. It amazes me, I confess; -- for certainly, there can be nothing so advantageous to them as instruction. But I will no longer importune my young cousin."

Then turning to Mr. Bennet, he offered himself as his antagonist at backgammon. Mr. Bennet accepted the challenge, observing that he acted very wisely in leaving the girls to their own trifling amusements. Mrs. Bennet and her daughters apologised most civilly for Lydia's interruption, and promised that it should not occur again, if he would resume his book; but Mr. Collins, after assuring them that he bore his young cousin no ill will, and should never resent her behaviour as any affront, seated himself at another table with Mr. Bennet, and prepared for backgammon.

Mr Collins for his part was contemplating the beauty of his fair cousin - Miss Jane Bennet.

Having now a good house and very sufficient income, he intended to marry; and in seeking a reconciliation with the Longbourn family he had a wife in view, as he meant to chuse one of the daughters, if he found them as handsome and amiable as they were represented by common report. This was his plan of amends -- of atonement -- for inheriting their father's estate; and he thought it an excellent one, full of eligibility and suitableness, and excessively generous and disinterested on his own part. His plan did not vary on seeing them. -- Miss Bennet's lovely face confirmed his views, and established all his strictest notions of what was due to seniority; and for the first evening she was his settled choice.

For a quarter of an hour, he talked tete-a-tete with Mrs. Bennet before breakfast, the conversation beginning with his parsonage-house, and leading naturally to the avowal of his hopes that a mistress for it might be found at Longbourn, confirmed that he had good chances with Miss Jane.

______________________________

While Jane's fate was being decided at least by Mrs Bennet, Elizabeth was visiting Charlotte. Her friend was now often seen in company of Mr Fitzwilliam and had not much time left for her other acquaintances. Meryton awaited the news of an engagement being formed.

Charlotte and Elizabeth had just entered Meryton in order to find some ribbons when they met Lydia and Kitty.

"Lizzy, you'll never believe. Mr Collins is to propose to Jane on Saturday."

"No!" called Elizabeth.

"Aye, it's nothing but the truth!" called Lydia, "oh! look, there is Mr Denny and another gentleman. I dare say he is very handsome!"

Within minutes an acquaintance was formed and the ladies were introduced to Mr Wickham and Lydia was quick to invite him to her Aunt Phillips for the evening.

______________________________

Mrs Bennet decided that Mr Collins should visit Mrs Phillips as well and told Jane to be nice to her cousin Collins. Elizabeth wanted to talk to her sister but the latter refused and said they'll talk in the evening after the gather.


Mr. Wickham did not play at whist, and with ready delight was he received at the other table between Elizabeth and Lydia. At first there seemed danger of Lydia's engrossing him entirely for she was a most determined talker; but being likewise extremely fond of lottery tickets, she soon grew too much interested in the game, too eager in making bets and exclaiming after prizes, to have attention for any one in particular. Allowing for the common demands of the game, Mr. Wickham was therefore at leisure to talk to Elizabeth, and she was very willing to hear him, though what she chiefly wished to hear she could not hope to be told, the history of his acquaintance with Mr. Darcy. She dared not even mention that gentleman. Her curiosity however was unexpectedly relieved. Mr. Wickham began the subject himself. He inquired how far Netherfield was from Meryton; and, after receiving her answer, asked in an hesitating manner how long Mr. Darcy had been staying there.

"About a month," said Elizabeth; and then, unwilling to let the subject drop, added, "He is a man of very large property in Derbyshire, I understand."

"Yes," replied Wickham; -- "his estate there is a noble one. A clear ten thousand per annum. You could not have met with a person more capable of giving you certain information on that head than myself -- for I have been connected with his family in a particular manner from my infancy."

Elizabeth could not but look surprised.

"You may well be surprised, Miss Bennet, at such an assertion, after seeing, as you probably might, the very cold manner of our meeting yesterday. -- Are you much acquainted with Mr. Darcy?"

"As much as I ever wish to be," cried Elizabeth warmly, -- "I have spent four days in the same house with him, and I think him very disagreeable."

"I have no right to give my opinion," said Wickham, "as to his being agreeable or otherwise. I am not qualified to form one. I have known him too long and to well to be a fair judge. It is impossible for me to be impartial. But I believe your opinion of him would in general astonish -- and perhaps you would not express it quite so strongly anywhere else. -- Here you are in your own family."

"Upon my word I say no more here than I might say in any house in the neighbourhood, except Netherfield. He is not at all liked in Hertfordshire. Every body is disgusted with his pride. You will not find him more favourably spoken of by any one."

"I cannot pretend to be sorry," said Wickham, after a short interruption, "that he or that any man should not be estimated beyond their deserts; but with him I believe it does not often happen. The world is blinded by his fortune and consequence, or frightened by his high and imposing manners, and sees him only as he chooses to be seen."

"I should take him, even on my slight acquaintance, to be an ill-tempered man." Wickham only shook his head. "I wonder," said he, at the next opportunity of speaking, "whether he is likely to be in this country much longer."

"I do not at all know; but I heard nothing of his going away when I was at Netherfield. I hope your plans in favour of the ----shire will not be affected by his being in the neighbourhood."

"Oh! no -- it is not for me to be driven away by Mr. Darcy. If he wishes to avoid seeing me, he must go. We are not on friendly terms, and it always gives me pain to meet him, but I have no reason for avoiding him but what I might proclaim to all the world; a sense of very great ill-usage, and most painful regrets at his being what he is. His father, Miss Bennet, the late Mr. Darcy, was one of the best men that ever breathed, and the truest friend I ever had; and I can never be in company with this Mr. Darcy without being grieved to the soul by a thousand tender recollections. His behaviour to myself has been scandalous; but I verily believe I could forgive him any thing and every thing, rather than his disappointing the hopes and disgracing the memory of his father."

Elizabeth found the interest of the subject increase, and listened with all her heart; but the delicacy of it prevented farther inquiry. Mr. Wickham began to speak on more general topics, Meryton, the neighbourhood, the society, appearing highly pleased with all that he had yet seen, and speaking of the latter especially, with gentle but very intelligible gallantry.

"It was the prospect of constant society, and good society," he added, "which was my chief inducement to enter the ----shire. I knew it to be a most respectable, agreeable corps, and my friend Denny tempted me farther by his account of their present quarters, and the very great attentions and excellent acquaintance Meryton had procured them. Society, I own, is necessary to me. I have been a disappointed man, and my spirits will not bear solitude. I _must_ have employment and society. A military life is not what I was intended for, but circumstances have now made it eligible. The church _ought_ to have been my profession -- I was brought up for the church, and I should at this time have been in possession of a most valuable living, had it pleased the gentleman we were speaking of just now."

"Indeed!"

"Yes -- the late Mr. Darcy bequeathed me the next presentation of the best living in his gift. He was my godfather, and excessively attached to me. I cannot do justice to his kindness. He meant to provide for me amply, and thought he had done it; but when the living fell, it was given elsewhere."

"Good heavens!" cried Elizabeth; "but how could that be? -- How could his will be disregarded? -- Why did not you seek legal redress?"

"There was just such an informality in the terms of the bequest as to give me no hope from law. A man of honour could not have doubted the intention, but Mr. Darcy chose to doubt it -- or to treat it as a merely conditional recommendation, and to assert that I had forfeited all claim to it by extravagance, imprudence, in short any thing or nothing. Certain it is, that the living became vacant two years ago, exactly as I was of an age to hold it, and that it was given to another man; and no less certain is it, that I cannot accuse myself of having really done any thing to deserve to lose it. I have a warm, unguarded temper, and I may perhaps have sometimes spoken my opinion of him, and to him, too freely. I can recall nothing worse. But the fact is, that we are very different sort of men, and that he hates me."

"This is quite shocking! -- He deserves to be publicly disgraced."

"Some time or other he will be -- but it shall not be by me. Till I can forget his father, I can never defy or expose him." Elizabeth honoured him for such feelings, and thought him handsomer than ever as he expressed them.

"But what," said she after a pause, "can have been his motive? -- what can have induced him to behave so cruelly?"

"A thorough, determined dislike of me -- a dislike which I cannot but attribute in some measure to jealousy. Had the late Mr. Darcy liked me less, his son might have borne with me better; but his father's uncommon attachment to me, irritated him I believe very early in life. He had not a temper to bear the sort of competition in which we stood -- the sort of preference which was often given me."

"I can understand you feelings perfectly. He is to my taste much as you describe him."

Chapter 11

All Elizabeth wanted was talk to Jane but as she was walking towards her sister's room that evening, she realised that her newly acquired knowledge of Mr Darcy's doings was of no consequence in comparison to the terrible thing that was to happen to Jane. She knocked on the door and as her sister asked her to come in, she went inside:

"Oh, Jane, how are you?"

"I am fine." Replied her sister.

"Jane, do not lie. I know you dread the idea of marrying Mr Collins."

"Lizzy, what must be must be." Replied her sister with her usual calmness but there was resignation in her voice.

"Jane, you cannot!"

"I'm afraid I must."

"No!"

"Lizzy, listen to me. I have thought about it. You know what our family situation is. You know that one of us must marry well. And Mr Collins is the best we can get. He'll inherit Longbourn one day..."

"But before that happens, he'll make you unhappy and miserable!"

"I can be happy, Lizzy. Of that I am sure."

"Jane, listen to yourself! You were to marry for love. You were to be happy. Mr Collins cannot make you happy."

"Maybe not, but I can learn to like my new life or at least accept it without regret,"

"Jane, I will not let you marry Mr Collins. Jane, I will find a way to prevent this marriage. Just please do not accept him."

Jane was silent.

"Jane, if by Saturday I will not come up with a way, you will be free to accept his offer. Is it a deal?"

"Lizzy, you will come up with nothing but if that pleases you, let it be. I will make no promise till Saturday."

"Jane, please reconsider. He will be a nightmare to live with."

Some things must be done." Smiled Jane. "But I've seen you were engrossed in conversation with Mr Wickham."

Jane listened with astonishment and concern; -- she knew not how to believe that Mr. Darcy could be so unworthy of Mr. Fitzwilliam's regard; and yet, it was not in her nature to question the veracity of a young man of such amiable appearance as Wickham. -- The possibility of his having really endured such unkindness, was enough to interest all her tender feelings; and nothing therefore remained to be done, but to think well of them both, to defend the conduct of each, and throw into the account of accident or mistake, whatever could not be otherwise explained.

"They have both," said she, "been deceived, I dare say, in some way or other, of which we can form no idea. Interested people have perhaps misrepresented each to the other. It is, in short, impossible for us to conjecture the causes or circumstances which may have alienated them, without actual blame on either side."

"Very true, indeed; -- and now, my dear Jane, what have you got to say in behalf of the interested people who have probably been concerned in the business? -- Do clear them too, or we shall be obliged to think ill of somebody."

"Laugh as much as you choose, but you will not laugh me out of my opinion. My dearest Lizzy, do but consider in what a disgraceful light it places Mr. Darcy, to be treating his father's favourite in such a manner, -- one, whom his father had promised to provide for. -- It is impossible. No man of common humanity, no man who had any value for his character, could be capable of it. Can his most intimate friends be so excessively deceived in him? oh! no."

"I can much more easily believe Mr. Fitzwilliam's being imposed on, than that Mr. Wickham should invent such a history of himself as he gave me last night; names, facts, every thing mentioned without ceremony. -- If it be not so, let Mr. Darcy contradict it. Besides, there was truth in his looks."

"It is difficult indeed -- it is distressing. -- One does not know what to think. But remember that Mr Fitzwilliam is family so he may know.."

"I beg your pardon; -- one knows exactly what to think and maybe, Mr Fitzwilliam is deceiving us all as well."

"But Mr Darcy's sister! She is so nice and well-bred..." tried Jane.

"No, Jane. You will not convince me."

Lizzy stood up to leave. "Jane, remember till Saturday."

"Yes, Lizzy." Jane smiled faintly.

______________________________

Days passed on and there was less and less time left.

Friday morning came and Elizabeth was walking the lane next to the little lake west of Longbourn. She has seen neither Charlotte nor any other neighbour for the last few days. Mr Collins was paying attentions to Jane who accepted them calmly. Elizabeth could not bear watching it.

Suddenly as if he dropped from the sky, in front of her stood Mr Darcy.

"Miss Bennet."

"Mr Darcy."

"Miss Bennet, Miss Kitty told me I might find you here."

She smiled but there was no warmth in that smile.

"Miss Bennet, I came to tell you that I'm leaving tomorrow morning."

"I see."

"I came to say goodbye and..." he stopped, "I came..." he stopped again and turned back on her. She was surprised.

"Miss Bennet, " he began again, "in vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you."

Elizabeth's astonishment was beyond expression. She stared, coloured, doubted, and was silent. This he considered sufficient encouragement, and the avowal of all that he felt and had long felt for her immediately followed. He spoke well, but there were feelings besides those of the heart to be detailed, and he was not more eloquent on the subject of tenderness than of pride. His sense of her inferiority -- of its being a degradation -- of the family obstacles which judgement had always opposed to inclination, were dwelt on with a warmth which seemed due to the consequence he was wounding, but was very unlikely to recommend his suit. In spite of her deeply-rooted dislike, she could not be insensible to the compliment of such a man's affection, and though her intentions did not vary for an instant, she was at first sorry for the pain he was to receive; till, roused to resentment by his subsequent language, she lost all compassion in anger. She tried, however, to compose herself to answer him with patience, when he should have done. He concluded with representing to her the strength of that attachment which, in spite of all his endeavours, he had found impossible to conquer; and with expressing his hope that it would now be rewarded by her acceptance of his hand. As he said this, she could easily see that he had no doubt of a favourable answer. He spoke of apprehension and anxiety, but his countenance expressed real security. Such a circumstance could only exasperate farther, and when he ceased, the colour rose into her cheeks, and she said,

"In such cases as this, it is, I believe..." she stopped. She's been praying to God that he would help her find a solution to Jane's problem and this was her solution. Jane wanted to marry Collins because, she thought she was securing her family's welfare. If she, Lizzy, married Mr Darcy, a man with ten thousand pounds a year, Jane would be able to refuse Collins as the marriage would have no real consequence to the family. Only one daughter had to marry well and it fell upon Lizzy to do it. Darcy was hateful, arrogant and selfish. She would have to satisfy his carnal lusts but he wasn't at least sleazy and fat like Collins.

"Mr Darcy, I thank you and accept your offer." She said calmly but firmly causing him to smile toothily. She read his letter and forgave him - he thought. He was happy.

Chapter 12

"My dear Lizzy, where can you have been walking to?" was a question which Elizabeth received from Jane as soon as she entered their room, and from all the others when they sat down to table.

She had only to say in reply, that they had wandered about, till she was beyond her own knowledge. She paled as she spoke; but neither that, nor any thing else, awakened a suspicion of the truth. The morning passed quietly, unmarked by any thing extraordinary. Finally Elizabeth was left alone with Jane.

"Jane, I have found a solution."

"A solution?"

"Yes, you may safely refuse Mr Collins now. The future of our family is secured."

"Lizzy what do you mean?"

"I cannot tell you now. All will be known in the evening. Trust me." With that Elizabeth left her sister's room. She now had time to rethink what the consequences of her decision were. She would be unhappy in this marriage. She would have to pretend. It was revolting that she who always claimed that nothing but the deepest love would induce her into matrimony, was about to enter a loveless marriage. Finally she resolved that the fact that her family's happiness would be secured and most of all Jane would be saved from an imprudent match, would enable her to live with her burden.

____________________________

Darcy was of a disposition in which happiness overflows in mirth. He returned to Netherfield smiling and happy. He told Elizabeth that he would call on her father later on to ask for his consent. On his arrival home, Darcy met Richard in the hall. It seemed Richard himself had just returned from somewhere but Darcy was too happy to notice.

"Darcy, I'm glad I see you, I'm just ret..."

"Richard, I have news, I must share with you..." interrupted him Darcy. "I will go an fetch Georgiana. I want you to learn first." With that he ran upstairs to call Georgiana to the library.

Having brought Georgiana to the parlour where Richard was waiting, he seated them on to chairs and said:

"Georgiana, Richard, you are the two closest people to me. Therefore I want you to know first. I went today to Longbourn to speak with Miss Elizabeth. I have asked her to marry me and she made me this honour and accepted my proposal." He smiled broadly.

There was horror in Georgiana's eyes. She got up and ran out of the room. Darcy stood in amazement. And then glancing at Richard ran after her. He knocked on her door but there was no answer.

"Georgiana, please open." He asked.

"Go away." She replied

He pressed the knob but it didn't move.

"Georgiana, open the door."

His voice summoned Lady Susan:

"What is the matter, Darcy?"

"I don't know, I just told her that I am getting married and..."

"You are getting married! To whom? Not Anne surely!"

"No, of course not. To Miss Elizabeth Bennet."

"You mean she accepted you?"

"Yes. "

Susan looked at him suspiciously.

"What is it, Susan? Is it so strange? I may have not always loved her but I do now."

Susan wasn't convinced.

"I'll talk to Georgiana. Go and sit with Richard. I'll be with you soon."

When Darcy left, Georgiana opened the door to let Lady Susan in.

____________________________

There was silence in the library. The two men were sitting opposite each other and looking into the wall.

"Darcy, I must say, you caught me by surprise." Ventured Richard finally.

"I know, it may be surprising but I truly love her."

"Does she love you?"

Darcy paused.

"I believe she does... in her own way."

"In her own way?"

"She was always a bit enigmatic to me."

"Enigmatic?"

"I am not oblivious to the fact that she behaved as if she disliked me, sometimes."

"Darcy, don't get me wrong but I though she disliked you." Tried Richard.

"I wrote her a letter explaining some things and gave her time to rethink everything."

"I see."

"And I think she understood that I'm not as bad as it might have sometimes appeared. And above all, she would be stupid to refuse me."

"Darcy, do you really accept that she is marrying you for your money."

"I don't think she would be able."

"In fact, I have something to tell you, too." Said Fitzwilliam

Darcy looked at him quizzically.

"I'm engaged to Charlotte Lucas."

"What?" burst Darcy.

"Exactly what you've heard. Charlotte will become my wife."

Darcy looked at his cousin and said:

"I suppose, I should congratulate you."

"Thank you." Replied rather bitterly Richard.

There was silence between them again.

Almost two hours had gone by since Georgiana's refuge and Darcy was growing impatient.

"Richard, as I'm leaving tomorrow. I must go and speak to Mr Bennet now. Please excuse me from the ladies. I shall be back in the evening, I suppose.

____________________________

Elizabeth was agitated and confused when she was Darcy enter the yard. I suppose, I will have to get used to it. she shrugged. She anticipated what would be felt in the family when her situation became known.

Mr. Bennet withdrew to the library soon after lunch and Elizabeth observed Mr. Darcy go straight to that particular room. Her agitation on seeing it was extreme. She feared her father's opposition, that he was going to be made unhappy; and that it should be through her means - that she, his favourite child, should be distressing him by her choice, should be filling him with fears and regrets in disposing of her - was a wretched reflection, and she sat in misery, expecting her faith with calmness. It was done for the best. Deep in her heart, however, she hoped her father would oppose strongly and that she would not have to marry Darcy as Jane would not have to marry Collins. After all if her father objected to Darcy then, he would surely object to Collins.

Mr. Darcy appeared again, looking quite content. He approached the table where she was sitting and said in a whisper,

"Go to your father, he wants you in the library."

She was gone directly. Her father was walking about the room, looking grave and anxious.
"Lizzy," said he, "what are you doing? Are you out of your senses, to be accepting this man? Have not you always hated him?"

How earnestly did she then wish that her former opinions had been more reasonable, her expressions more moderate! It would have spared her from lying now.

"Or, in other words, you are determined to have him. He is rich, to be sure, and you may have fine clothes and fine carriages. But will they make you happy? Lizzy," said her father, "I have given him my consent. He is the kind of man, indeed, to whom I should never dare refuse any thing, which he condescended to ask. I now give it to you, if you are resolved on having him. But let me advise you to think better of it. I know your disposition, Lizzy. I know that you could be neither happy nor respectable, unless you truly esteemed your husband; unless you looked up to him as a superior. Your lively talents would place you in the greatest danger in an unequal marriage. You could scarcely escape discredit and misery. My child, let me not have the grief of seeing you unable to respect your partner in life. You know not what you are about."

"Papa, it is my decision. Mr Darcy is the man of my choice. I made a promise and I will keep to it."

Her father kissed her in the forehead and smiled.

"I hope you know what you are doing."

She rose and left. It was some time later that Mr Bennet realised, that his favourite daughter did not say she loved, cared for and admired her future husband.


Chapter 13

When vital events took place in Fitzwilliam Darcy's life, his sister was crying on the shoulder of her cousin, Lady Susan Fitzwilliam.

"Susan, how can she have accepted him?" sobbed Georgiana, clutching to Lady Susan's arm.

"I don't know, Georgie. I don't know. But there must be some explanation. You remember her telling us, she harboured no good feelings towards him. Something must have changed since then."

"What if she deceived us all! What is she is even worse than Miss Bingley?! What if my brother is throwing himself into a loveless marriage?! What if..." she cried.

"Georgie, calm down. You can do nothing. It's his life and hers. It has nothing o do with you."

"He is my brother."

"True, he is also Lady Catherine's nephew and you wouldn't approve if Lady Catherine tried to direct his life, would you?"

"No, but it's different! I..."

"Georgiana, it's true that Lady Catherine and yourself may have different intentions or reasons for your intervention but either way it's Fitzwilliam's life and his decision. No one else's!"

"Susan, if you could talk to Elizabeth..." ventured Georgie.

"I'm not really sure..."

"Susan, you must. I will leave tomorrow but you... you must go and talk to her. Judge if she is marrying him for other reasons... for money."

"I will talk to her."

"Thank you. Susan, can you stay here with me, until I fall asleep?" Asked Georgiana.

"Of course, my dear."

____________________________

By the time Georgiana had fallen asleep, the whole of Longbourn knew about Miss Elizabeth's betrothal.

Mrs Bennet's reaction, when Elizabeth told her about the upcoming event in private was moreless like:

"Good gracious! Lord bless me! only think! dear me! Mr. Darcy! Who would have thought it! And is it really true? Oh! my sweetest Lizzy! how rich and how great you will be! What pin-money, what jewels, what carriages you will have! Jane's is nothing to it -- nothing at all. I am so pleased -- so happy. Such a charming man! -- so handsome! so tall! -- Oh, my dear Lizzy! pray apologise for my having disliked him so much before. I hope he will overlook it. Dear, dear Lizzy. A house in town! Every thing that is charming! Three daughters married! Ten thousand a year! Oh, Lord! What will become of me. I shall go distracted." This was enough to prove that her approbation need not be doubted: and Elizabeth, rejoicing that such an effusion was heard only by herself, soon went away. But before she had been three minutes in her own room, her mother followed her. "My dearest child," she cried, "I can think of nothing else! Ten thousand a year, and very likely more! 'Tis as good as a Lord! And a special licence. You must and shall be married by a special licence. But my dearest love, tell me what dish Mr. Darcy is particularly fond of, that I may have it tomorrow."

"Mama, Mr Darcy will not be coming tomorrow. His presence in London is necessary."

"Nonsense!. You will keep him here. He has duties as your fiancé!"

"Mama, I cannot."

"Yes, you can, and I dare say you sleep with him and care his child or he may rethink and..."

"Mother!!!" dried Lizzy.

"I know what I am talking about. It was only yesterday that Mrs Phillips has told me that one third of young brides is pregnant these days when they get married. I dare say it gives a whole new meaning to the word: "secure a man". La, Lizzy! I always knew you were to make a greatest career. Jane, may be beautiful but you always knew how to go about your business!"

"Mother, I will not listen to it!" Elizabeth marched out of the room

Five minutes later, Mrs Bennet was in Lizzy's room:

"I'm so glad you will be connected to the royal family."

"Mama, Mr Darcy has no..."

"I did not want to tell Lady Lucas, for I am crossed with her that Charlotte has secured Mr Fitzwilliam. I wonder if she slept with him?"

"Mother!"

"Alright, alright! But now that you are marrying Mr Darcy, I can tell you that the prefix "Fitz" before the name indicates that the family descends from a natural child of some king."

"Mother, I'm not marrying him for his ancestors!"

Completely ignoring her daughter's remark Mrs Bennet continue: "You know, you could be married on the same day as Jane and Mr Collins!"

"Mother, Jane will not marry Mr Collins."

"Yes, she will. Mr Collins will propose to her tomorrow."

"Mother, if you agree to Jane's marriage, I will call off mine with Mr Darcy."

"You cannot be serious, Lizzy."

"I am very serious. It's either my marriage or Jane's."

"Are you being that selfish? You deny your sister your own happiness? Don't you want to see her happily married?"

"That's precisely what I want. I want her happily married! It's your choice. Darcy's 10,000 a year or Mr Collins."

"Well, if you put it this way." Mrs Bennet showed how unsatisfied, she was with such a turn of events. She walked out leaving Lizzy in peace, at least as much of peace as a sensible woman engaged to be married without love could have.

____________________________

The next morning found the whole Netherfield family gathered at breakfast table. Darcy and Georgiana were to leave about noon.

There wasn't much talk at the table as no one felt really at ease. Finally Richard Fitzwilliam spoke:

"Yesterday, Darcy announced that he was getting married. I have therefore decided not to say anything about what I'm planning to say now." Everyone looked at Richard: "Miss Charlotte Lucas bestowed an honour on me and agreed to become my wife."

There was a moment of silence and Georgiana rose:

"Oh, cousin! I'm so happy for you. I'm sure you will be very happy together!"

Darcy's heart was being torn apart. His own sister did not accept his bride.

This chapter contains a non-consensual sex reference.

Chapter 14

"Dearly Beloved, we are gathered here..." the words of the parson rang in Elizabeth's ears as she stood next to Mr Darcy at the altar. There was no miracle that would prevent today's event. When she accepted Darcy's proposal, there was nothing but Jane's well-being on her mind but then, when the danger was gone, she began thinking that although she saved her sister from a unhappy marriage of convenience, she prepared an unhappy fate for herself. There was no love, no respect and no prospects for a happy future. Not after what she knew about the man standing next to her. Mr Wickham was very descriptive in picturing Mr Darcy's deeds. How the grand young master of Pemberley seduced a cousin to Mr Wickham who came to visit just before the old Mr Darcy's passing. How he deceived a young girl, innocent and pure. How he disgraced her and himself most all.

Elizabeth jerked as she heard the parson address her. Her lips trembled. The seconds seemed minutes but she finally uttered: "I do."

Her fate was sealed. Before God and people, she was Mrs Darcy, doomed for unhappy existence.

____________________________

She lifted her heavy eyelids and tried to adjust her eyes to the surroundings. She didn't know where she was for a moment but then the memories came back. She was in London, in Mr Darcy's Mansion, in her new home. No, she would not call this place home. It was not her home.

She moved gently. Now lying on her back, she closed her eyes but almost immediately jerked and opened them again. She felt dirty. The events of the last evening and night came back vividly. After the wedding, everyone waved the newly married Darcys off. Elizabeth could see Charlotte resting her head on her husbands arm as they drove away. How happy the new Mrs Fitzwilliam was. She and Richard married a month earlier and their marital bliss seemed to have been spreading around the whole village and neighbouring estates. Elizabeth's marital bliss was non-existent. At least Mr Darcy left her quite quickly last night so she could rest and try not to think that she was married. That was however difficult to do. She remembered his quickened breath and sweat and her own pain... marital duties were everything her mother told her. She felt a cramp inside and tears came from her eyes. What have I done?!

____________________________

It wasn't until noon that Elizabeth went downstairs. She hoped that Darcy would have by then go to his club (isn't it what all men do?), but just as she was on the last step, she saw him walking out of his study.

"I trust you have slept well, my dear." He said.

"I have a small headache." She replied.

He approached her and kissed her cheek and took her hand.

"I hope it will subside by the evening."

"Why so?"

"I had hoped to..."

"I do not feel like going anywhere." She interrupted him.

"I was hoping for a quite evening at home and that you would play something for me." He squeezed her hand.

"I am not certain if I will manage." She replied faintly.

"Would you like me to read you something? Enquired he.

"No, thank you, I'd rather sit by the fire."

He took her arm and led her to the drawing room.

"Elizabeth, I want you to..."

"Can it wait for some other time. My headache is growing stronger. I believe I shall retire to my room."

"Very well." Said he in a slightly offended voice and watched as she walked away. She turned to him and said:

"I shall have lunch in my room."

"As you wish." He bowed, the expression on his face told her he was feeling hurt.

____________________________

Four months later

Elizabeth handed a note to her maid.

"Give it to Mr Darcy, please."

"Yes, ma'am."

Darcy froze as he read:

Sir,

I shall not be attending dinner. I feel quite unwell. Please do not visit me. I hope I shall be better soon.

ED
____________________________

He strode into her room. “Out!” yelled he at the maid. “What is the meaning of this?” asked he showing her the letter.

“I believe you are able to read. It says that I shall not be attending dinner as I feel quite unwell. It also contains a request that you do not visit me. A request that you seem unable to honour.”

“If you are ill, I shall call the doctor but you will not fool me.”

“I have no intention of fooling you...”

“Do not play games with me, girl! You are my wife and you shall act accordingly.”

“Make me.” Before she was able to finish, he was standing next to her, he pulled her out of the chaise-longue she was sitting on and groaned hoarsely into her mouth: “I shall have my way with you woman. You will be my wife as God is my witness.” He kissed her hard, not thinking about her pleasure. She enraged him. He wanted her to feel the pain he was feeling right now. He loved her and she destroyed his life. She was cruel unfeeling and greedy. She married him for his money. He pushed her towards the bed and onto it. “Fitzwilliam, no!” cried she. He pinned her to the bed with all of his weight and ravished her body. He stroked her hair and slid his hand down over her throat to her breast, circling her pink nipples with his thumb. With one hand, he parted her thighs, his fingers teasing and toying with her for a moment and just as she was beginning to feel the pleasure, his minstration ceased and he plunged full length into her. She screamed, the pain sending her into oblivion. When she woke up she saw Darcy siting in the chair at her dressing table

"I believe you have by now realised that I don't love you." She spat.

"Madam, you have said quite enough. You don't need to do anything for me. It was my mistake in marrying you. I have been naive enough to think you could love me. I now know you cannot."

He stood up as walked out of the room.

Chapter 15

At the same time, elsewhere

Georgiana couldn't accept her brother's decision. She has been deeply deceived by Miss Elizabeth Bennet. "That woman's cunningness is despicable." She used to repeat to Lady Susan in every letter she sent to her. "I should prefer Miss Bingley as a sister. At least Caroline doesn't hide, she is interested in my brother's money." Despaired Georgiana. On Lady Susan's advice, she decided not to calmly accept what was to be accepted. Lady Susan wrote:

Dear Cousin,

I was paying much attention to what was happening around here. The great gossip in Meryton is that Miss Bennet is making a most advantageous match. Your brother's arrival two days ago had just confirmed it not to mention the announcement in The Times which appeared today. Everyone is talking. I must admit that I have not heard it spoken that she is marrying him for money. But then no one would have said such a thing in my company.

Your brother seems very much in love with the lady. I am not certain as to her feelings. She is quiet and never seems to be very interested, yet her behaviour is very proper. I advise you my dear Georgiana to bear everything calmly and accept what is to come. Maybe we shouldn't expect the worst.

Now onto the happier news! Richard and Charlotte are inseparable. They walk together and laugh. She actually knows how to laugh and on closer acquaintance improves. I liked her from the start, you know it but I thought her rather average. Now, I slowly begin to comprehend why Richard is so taken with her. She is quiet, yet affectionate and very warm towards him. She takes care of him I would say.

We have attended an assembly last Saturday and Richard danced with no one but her. Her mother was in ecstasy over it but I bear her no ill. In her mind, it is a match beyond dreams, yet I can accept her knowing that Charlotte truly loves my dear Colonel. Mrs Bennet is, however, difficult to bear with. She is fussing around how great a match HER daughter is making and she rattles about "other rich men her other daughters will meet" once, Elizabeth marries your brother. I honestly cannot stand. Maybe it would be bearable if I was certain that Elizabeth Bennet respects and loves your brother.

I must finish now. I shall write to you if anything new happens. Take care of yourself and do not worry too much. Everything will turn out to be just fine. Trust me on it. WE may just be very wrong and Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam will be the happiest and most loving couple on Earth.

Yours, S.

_______________________________

Charlotte's wedding was a happy event. Everyone seemed to have been under the spell that the happy couple spread around them. Even Georgiana relaxed and smiled at the newly wedded couple. After the wedding Richard and his bride were expected to head for Bath for a few weeks to start their life together and they were supposed to come back just before the Darcy wedding. Elizabeth was standing next to her own fiancé as the Fitzwilliams drove off. He was very attentive to her during his stay in the neighbourhood. She was even inclined to begin thinking well of him when a letter arrived from Mr Wickham. In it, he mockingly congratulated her on the engagement. He said, he understood her motives, after all Miss Bennet's marriage to Collins would be tragic. He said he admired her - Elizabeth's - love and devotion to her sister and hoped that Elizabeth would be able to forget the terrible deeds of her husband's. A propos, he wrote, I have met the poor girl Darcy treated so badly but a day ago. She is a wreck of the person she was. That did it. Elizabeth who for a split of a second began to change her opinion of Darcy was once again set against him

_______________________________


Three weeks into her own marriage, Elizabeth could finally write to Jane and invite her to visit her. The three weeks seemed like hell to Elizabeth. She had to receive visits and return them, Smile and look happy while inside she was torn and spent most of the nights crying into her pillow. Although in public the Darcys seemed to be a perfect couple, in the privacy of their home, they were strangers.

One of the first visitors whom Elizabeth had to receive were Caroline Bingley and her sister Louisa Hurst. Both ladies called rather early and chatted happily and gaily. Elizabeth smiled and upheld the conversation but was glad when they left. The Bingleys were friends of Darcy at least it seemed so because Darcy invited them to dine at the Darcy Mansion soon afterwards. When Jane finally arrived in the sixth week of Elizabeth's marriage, Elizabeth's happiness could only be compared with that of Darcy when he gained the right to visit Elizabeth's bedchamber. If truth be told, that happiness was well gone by now as he did not visit her quite often. Under many excuses Elizabeth kept the distance between them and statistically speaking the visits amounted to one a fortnight.

On the day of Jane's arrival, they were all to go to the Opera where they were to meet with the Bingleys. Mr Bingley a young cheerful man of four and twenty was unattached and always made Elizabeth wonder how he could have befriended her own husband. She decided that it must have been the opposites in them as well as the fact that Bingley was most probably unaware of Darcy's deeds in the past. Charles Bingley seemed to have been overflown in mirth the moment he saw Jane and in one week's time it seemed that he and Jane got together very well. The Bingleys as well as Jane, travelled to Pemberley with the Darcys. Darcy himself was not really enjoying the idea of having both Bingley sisters at Pemberley especially with Elizabeth keeping him away. He would have felt it very acutely if either of the Bingley sisters realised that his marriage was a fiasco.

The Bingleys were to stay for about ten days and leave Pemberley two days after Jane's departure for Herdforshire. Elizabeth sincerely hoped that Bingley would propose to Jane before her leaving but nothing of the sort had happened.

Being finally alone at Pemberley, Darcy hoped that he could do something to improve his relations with his wife. His another worry was that his sister was doing all in her power not to join them. She was at first staying with James and Susan, then seemed to be invited by the Matlocks to finally visited Charlotte and Richard on Charlotte's special request as she put it in her latest letter.

Darcy wasn't sure where he made a mistake. At the beginning of their engagement all seemed to be fine. At least, it looked to him like that or maybe he was deceived... Elizabeth was a perfect hostess to his gusts and in public nothing would have suggested that they weren't happily married but as soon as the last guest left, she grew cold and distant. Almost never let him into her bedchamber. He was even considering entering there by force but refrained. He thought that maybe he had hurt her the first night but every time he brought up the subject and there were not many times he did, her refused to talk. Finally, the evening, four months after the wedding, he realised what he didn't want to admit. SHE MARRIED HIM FOR HIS MONEY!

Sitting alone in his bedchamber, he relived the events of the night. How enraged he became when he saw her letter... a letter of all... his wife preferred to comunicate with him in writing... That letter made him furious, he wanted her to suffer like he was suffering and the easiest way was to... he could barely remember how he reached her chamber... her stubbornness and excess of port drove him into madness... a madness he would never be able to forgive himself... he hurt his wife... he practically raped her. He remembered the fear and pain in her eyes when he took her and the terrible disgust with himself he felt when he saw her unconscious...

_______________________________


It was just after dawn when Darcy woke up with a start. He heard noises in the yard but when he reached the window all he could see was a carriage driving away. He rang for his valet who appeared half dressed about five minutes later.

'What was the commotion about?" demanded Darcy.

'Mrs Darcy ordered the carriage to be ready for 4 o'clock in the morning and told her maid to pack. They have just left, sir. Mrs Darcy left a letter for you, shall I get it for you now?'

'Oh... Yes...' muttered Darcy and dismissed Jeffries with his hand.

This was something Darcy would have never imagined happening yet it was the most obvious reaction Elizabeth could have. She was gone and he didn't even know where to. Longbourn was a possibility. Or London. He truly didn't know.

There was a knock on the door. It was Jeffries with Elizabeth's missive.

Mr Darcy,

I have found it best to leave Pemberley after the occurrences of the evening. We are not suited for each other. I know you find me inferior and believe that it is a degradation to your family to be allied to mine. I shall therefore relieve you of this burden.

Your character was unfolded in the recital, which I received many months ago from Mr Wickham. You have reduced him to his present state of poverty. You have withheld the advantages, which you must know to have been designed for him. You have deprived him of the best years of his life of that independence which was no less his due than his desert. Tonight was just a confirmation of what is worst in you.

I truely do not know why you married me but I married you because I had to save my sister. I have done wrong and it is time to amend it. You may do what you want and I shall agree to everything.

Good bye, sir.

Elizabeth Bennet

It took Darcy three times to read the letter before he actually understood the meaning of it. But even having understood it, he was in a quandary as to what to do.


Chapter 16

Eleven months later

'Mrs Fitzwilliam.' announced the Gardiner butler. Elizabeth turned around to greet her friend. They had not seen each other for almost a year now.

'Good morning, Charlotte.'

'Good morning, Lizzy.' Replied the guest but there was little joy in her voice. Lizzy on the other hand was glad to see her old, childhood friend. She had not had many visits in the past few months and certainly not since her condition became visible.

'Please, sit down, Charlotte. We have not seen each other for such a long time.'

'Indeed, Lizzy. But you must see why that is.'

'I know, Charlotte. Please, tell me how Jane's wedding went.' Neither her father nor her mother wanted to see her and she was excluded from the wedding of her own very dear sister.

'It was very moving. They are really in love. And Fitzwilliam... Oh, I'm sorry, Lizzy. I shouldn't be...'

'Charlotte, don't be sorry. I made a mistake and I should sleep in the bed I've made.'

"Before you say anything more, I believe, you should read it. Richard and I are making some changes to Netherfield and well, we found this envelope. It's addressed to you.'

Lizzy took the thick envelope and recognised her husband's handwriting.

'Lizzy, I will admit that Richard didn't want to give you this letter because he knows and told me what's in it. I think that you've done Fitzwilliam a great injustice. He is a wonderful person and believe me I think you are made for each other. You have wounded him. Anyway, I convinced my husband that you should receive this letter.'

Elizabeth looked at her not knowing what to say.

'Well, I should be going, now. Take care of yourself, Lizzy, and God help you.'

Before Lizzy could say anything more, Charlotte was gone.

_______________________________


Lizzy opened the letter and began reading.

Madam,

I must apologise for all I have said in the course of the previous evenings. Indeed, for everything I said that in any way offended you. I respect you and admire and I would beg you to start our acquaintance afresh. Before you decide, you must hear one other thing. I know that you think I have done a great injury to Mr. Wickham. I can only refute it by laying before you the whole of his connection with my family. Of what he has particularly accused me, I am ignorant; but of the truth of what I shall relate, I can summon more than one witness of undoubted veracity. Mr. Wickham is the son of a very respectable man, who had for many years the management of all the Pemberley estates; and whose good conduct in the discharge of his trust naturally inclined my father to be of service to him; and on George Wickham, who was his god-son, his kindness was therefore liberally bestowed. My father supported him at school, and afterwards at Cambridge;—most important assistance, as his own father, always poor from the extravagance of his wife, would have been unable to give him a gentleman's education. My father was not only fond of this young man's society, whose manners were always engaging; he had also the highest opinion of him, and hoping the church would be his profession, intended to provide for him in it. As for myself, it is many, many years since I first began to think of him in a very different manner. The vicious propensities—the want of principle, which he was careful to guard from the knowledge of his best friend, could not escape the observation of a young man of nearly the same age with himself, and who had opportunities of seeing him in unguarded moments, which Mr. Darcy could not have. Here again I shall give you pain—to what degree you only can tell. But whatever may be the sentiments which Mr. Wickham has created, a suspicion of their nature shall not prevent me from unfolding his real character. It adds even another motive. My excellent father died about five years ago; and his attachment to Mr. Wickham was to the last so steady, that in his will he particularly recommended it to me to promote his advancement in the best manner that his profession might allow, and, if he took orders, desired that a valuable family living might be his as soon as it became vacant. There was also a legacy of one thousand pounds. His own father did not long survive mine, and within half a year from these events Mr. Wickham wrote to inform me that, having finally resolved against taking orders, he hoped I should not think it unreasonable for him to expect some more immediate pecuniary advantage, in lieu of the preferment by which he could not be benefited. He had some intention, he added, of studying the law, and I must be aware that the interest of one thousand pounds would be a very insufficient support therein. I rather wished than believed him to be sincere; but, at any rate, was perfectly ready to accede to his proposal. I knew that Mr. Wickham ought not to be a clergyman. The business was therefore soon settled. He resigned all claim to assistance in the church, were it possible that he could ever be in a situation to receive it, and accepted in return three thousand pounds. All connection between us seemed now dissolved. I thought too ill of him to invite him to Pemberley, or admit his society in town. In town, I believe, he chiefly lived, but his studying the law was a mere pretence, and being now free from all restraint, his life was a life of idleness and dissipation. For about three years I heard little of him; but on the decease of the incumbent of the living which had been designed for him, he applied to me again by letter for the presentation. His circumstances, he assured me, and I had no difficulty in believing it, were exceedingly bad. He had found the law a most unprofitable study, and was now absolutely resolved on being ordained, if I would present him to the living in question—of which he trusted there could be little doubt, as he was well assured that I had no other person to provide for, and I could not have forgotten my revered father's intentions. You will hardly blame me for refusing to comply with this entreaty, or for resisting every repetition of it. His resentment was in proportion to the distress of his circumstances—and he was doubtless as violent in his abuse of me to others, as in his reproaches to myself. After this period, every appearance of acquaintance was dropt. How he lived I know not. But last summer he was again most painfully obtruded on my notice. I must now mention a circumstance which I would wish to forget myself, and which no obligation less than the present should induce me to unfold to any human being. Having said thus much, I feel no doubt of your secrecy. My sister, who is more than ten years my junior, was left to the guardianship of my mother's nephew, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and myself. About a year ago, she was taken from school, and an establishment formed for her in London; and last summer she went with the lady who presided over it, to Ramsgate; and thither also went Mr. Wickham, undoubtedly by design; for there proved to have been a prior acquaintance between him and Mrs. Younge, in whose character we were most unhappily deceived; and by her connivance and aid he so far recommended himself to Georgiana, whose affectionate heart retained a strong impression of his kindness to her as a child, that she was persuaded to believe herself in love, and to consent to an elopement. She was then but fifteen, which must be her excuse; and after stating her imprudence, I am happy to add that I owed the knowledge of it to herself. I joined them unexpectedly a day or two before the intended elopement; and then Georgiana, unable to support the idea of grieving and offending a brother whom she almost looked up to as a father, acknowledged the whole to me. You may imagine what I felt and how I acted. Regard for my sister's credit and feelings prevented any public exposure, but I wrote to Mr. Wickham, who left the place immediately, and Mrs. Younge was of course removed from her charge. Mr. Wickham's chief object was unquestionably my sister's fortune, which is thirty thousand pounds; but I cannot help supposing that the hope of revenging himself on me was a strong inducement. His revenge would have been complete indeed.

This, madam, is a faithful narrative of every event in which we have been concerned together; and if you do not absolutely reject it as false, you will, I hope, acquit me henceforth of cruelty towards Mr. Wickham. I know not in what manner, under what form of falsehood, he has imposed on you; but his success is not, perhaps, to be wondered at. Ignorant as you previously were of every thing concerning either, detection could not be in your power, and suspicion certainly not in your inclination. For the truth of every thing here related, I can appeal more particularly to the testimony of Colonel Fitzwilliam, who from our near relationship and constant intimacy, and still more as one of the executors of my father's will, has been unavoidably acquainted with every particular of these transactions. If your abhorrence of me should make my assertions valueless, you cannot be prevented by the same cause from confiding in my cousin; and that there may be the possibility of consulting him.

Miss Bennet, I truly hope we can be friends.

Fitzwilliam Darcy

_______________________________


Before Lizzy could regain her senses, there was a knock on the door and the maid came in.

'Madam, you asked me to call you when he will be awake.'

Chapter 17

Walking up the stairs to her room, Lizzy could not bring two thoughts together. The letter seemed so distant. Her feelings as she read were scarcely to be defined. With amazement did she first understand that he believed any apology to be in his power; and steadfastly was she persuaded that he could have no explanation to give, which a just sense of shame would not conceal. She read, with an eagerness, which hardly left her power of comprehension, and from impatience of knowing what the next sentence might bring, was incapable of attending to the sense of the one before her eyes. But when this subject was succeeded by his account of Mr. Wickham, when she read, with somewhat clearer attention, a relation of events, which, if true, must overthrow every cherished opinion of his worth, and which bore so alarming an affinity to his own history of himself, her feelings were yet more acutely painful and more difficult of definition. Astonishment, apprehension, and even horror, oppressed her. She wished to discredit it entirely, repeatedly exclaiming. This must be false! This cannot be! This must be the grossest falsehood! — and when she had gone through the whole letter, though scarcely knowing anything of the last page or two, put it hastily away, protesting that she would not regard it, that she would never look in it again.

In this perturbed state of mind, with thoughts that could rest on nothing, she walked into her room; but it would not do; in half a minute the letter was unfolded again, and collecting herself as well as she could, she again began the mortifying perusal of all that related to Wickham, and commanded herself so far as to examine the meaning of every sentence. She took little Henry Bennet Darcy into her arms and read on. The account of his connection with the Pemberley family was exactly what he had related himself; and the kindness of the late Mr. Darcy, though she had not before known its extent, agreed equally well with his own words. So far each recital confirmed the other; but when she came to the will, the difference was great. What Wickham had said of the living was fresh in her memory, and as she recalled his very words, it was impossible not to feel that there was gross duplicity on one side or the other; and, for a few moments, she flattered herself that her wishes did not err. But when she read, and re-read with the closest attention, the particulars immediately following of Wickham's resigning all pretensions to the living, of his receiving, in lieu, so considerable a sum as three thousand pounds, again was she forced to hesitate. She put down the letter, weighed every circumstance with what she meant to be impartiality—deliberated on the probability of each statement—but with little success. On both sides it was only assertion. Henry smiled at her and she placed a kiss on his forehead. Again she read on. But every line proved more clearly that the affair, which she had believed it impossible that any contrivance could so represent as to render her husband's conduct in it less than infamous, was capable of a turn which must make him entirely blameless throughout the whole.

The extravagance and general profligacy, which he scrupled not to lay to Mr. Wickham's charge, exceedingly shocked her. The more so, as she could bring no proof of its injustice. She had never heard of him before his entrance into the ——shire Militia, in which he had engaged at the persuasion of the young man, who, on meeting him accidentally in town, had there renewed a slight acquaintance. Of his former way of life, nothing had been known in Hertfordshire but what he told himself. As to his real character, had information been in her power, she had never felt a wish of enquiring. His countenance, voice, and manner had established him at once in the possession of every virtue. She tried to recollect some instance of goodness, some distinguished trait of integrity or benevolence, that might rescue him from the attacks of Darcy; or at least, by the predominance of virtue, atone for those casual errors, under which she would endeavour to class what Darcy had described as the idleness and vice of many years continuance. But no such recollection befriended her. She could see him instantly before her, in every charm of air and address; but she could remember no more substantial good than the general approbation of the neighbourhood, and the regard, which his social powers had gained him in the mess. After pausing on this point a considerable while, she once more continued to read. The story which followed, of his designs on Georgiana, received some confirmation from what gather from her talks with Georgiana a long time ago. Yes, it seemed so long ago. Georgiana and Pemeberley and... Fitzwilliam. And at last she was referred for the truth of every particular to Colonel Fitzwilliam himself—from whom she had previously received the information of his near concern in all his cousin's affairs, and whose character she had no reason to question.

She perfectly remembered every thing that had passed in conversation between Wickham and herself in their first evening at Mr. Philips's. Many of his expressions were still fresh in her memory. She was now struck with the impropriety of such communications to a stranger, and wondered it had escaped her before. She saw the indelicacy of putting himself forward as he had done, and the inconsistency of his professions with his conduct. She remembered that he had boasted of having no fear of seeing Mr. Darcy—that Mr. Darcy might leave the country, but that he should stand his ground; yet he had avoided the Netherfield.

She grew absolutely ashamed of herself. Of neither Darcy nor Wickham could she think, without feeling that she had been blind, partial, prejudiced, absurd.

"How despicably have I acted!" she sobbed cradling little Henry in her arms. "I, who have prided myself on my discernment!—I, who have valued myself on my abilities! Who have often disdained the generous candour of my sister, and gratified my vanity, in useless or blameable distrust.—How humiliating is this discovery!—Yet, how just a humiliation!—Had I been in love, I could not have been more wretchedly blind. But vanity, not love, has been my folly. I should have been better woman and kinder one just, as your father needed. Pleased with the preference of one, and offended by the neglect of the other, on the very beginning of our acquaintance, I have courted prepossession and ignorance, and driven reason away, where either were concerned. Till this moment, I never knew myself. What am I to do now?"

During the months Elizabeth spent in the house of her Aunt Gardiner, she had not heard from her wedded husband. He never wrote. He never called. Nor have any of their acquaintances. Her parents did not want to see her at Longbourn especially after they had learned that she was with child. If it hadn't been for her aunt, Lizzy would have been homeless. She did not know that it was with her father's consultations that Mrs Gardiner invited her to stay at Gracechurch Street. Mr Bennet could not accept his daughter's decision but did not want to leave her in need either. Maybe in some time he would be able to see her again and tell her how much he loved her. As for Mr Darcy, Mr Bennet did not see him until his eldest daughter's marriage to Mr Bingley, a pleasant young man, apparently a close friend to Darcy. But even at the wedding, Mr Bennet had no chance to speak to his son-in-law. Fitzwilliam Darcy was sober and looked rather ill on the day. He departed very quickly and Mr Bennet received little news about him other that what Mr Bingley chose to tell. Darcy had been said to stay at Pemberley where he suffered from some sort of illness which doctors diagnosed as exhaustion and apathy. It was in after the letter stating it all which Mr Bennet received from Mr Bingley that he decided a visit to Pemberley would be the right thing to do. After all Mr Darcy was his son-in-law and he now needed a fatherly advice.

With such a notion in mind, did Mr Bennet set of for Pemeberley.

Chapter 18

Mr Bennet as he drove along, watched for the first appearance of Pemberley woods with some perturbation; and when at length he turned in at the lodge, his spirits were in a high flutter.

The park was very large, and contained great variety of ground. He entered it in one of its lowest points, and drove for some time through a beautiful wood, stretching over a wide extent.

Mr Bennet's mind was distressed, but he saw and admired every remarkable spot and point of view. He gradually ascended for half a mile, and then found himself at the top of a considerable eminence, where the wood ceased, and the eye was instantly caught by Pemberley House, situated on the opposite side of a valley, into which the road, with some abruptness, wound. It was a large, handsome, stone building, standing well on rising ground, and backed by a ridge of high woody hills;—and in front, a stream of some natural importance was swelled into greater, but without any artificial appearance. Its banks were neither formal, nor falsely adorned. He had never seen a place for which nature had done more, or where natural beauty had been so little counteracted by an awkward taste. He was admiring what he saw and at that moment he thought that to be mistress of Pemberley might be something! Yet his own daughter rejected the opportunity. In name she was still a mistress of this place but it was in name only. And nothing seemed to be able to change that situation.

The carriage descended the hill, crossed the bridge, and drove to the door; and, while examining the nearer aspect of the house, all his apprehensions of meeting its owner returned.

As the carriage pulled in front of the door, Mr Bennet turned to look at the prospect. The hill, crowned with wood, from which he had descended, receiving increased abruptness from the distance, was a beautiful object. Every disposition of the ground was good; and he looked on the whole scene—the river, the trees scattered on its banks, and the winding of the valley, as far as he could trace it—with delight. "And my good and wise Lizzy has rejected it all." - he said to himself and in that very moment the door opened and a footman walked out of it.

"I am here to talk with Mr Darcy." Said Mr Bennet and gave the man his card.

"I am sorry, sir. Mr Darcy is not in." replied the footman.

"I very well know, Mr Darcy is in. My name is Edward Bennet and I'm his father-in-law. So will you please inform Mr Darcy of my coming." The footmen looked at him for a few seconds and although he knew what all household knew that Mrs Darcy nee Bennet was not living with her husband he decided it would be wise to at least inform the master of the house that his father-in-law was here. Hertfordshire, after all, was a long way from here.

"Very well, sir. I will see if Mr Darcy has returned. Will you please wait a moment."

Mr Bennet nodded and watched the footman walk up the stairs. Five minutes later, he was back:

"I am sorry, sir but Mr Darcy is not available..."

"I will not have it. I will speak to Mr Darcy and I will do it now." Cried Mr Bennet and began walking towards the stairs.

"But, sir, you cannot!" began the man.

"I can and I will. Mr Darcy may be the owner of Pemberley and half of England but he is my son-in-law and I will have a word with him whether he likes it or not." With that he stood on top of the stairs. "Now, which room he is in?"

The footman was positively shocked by Mr Bennet's outburst and he pointed the door at the end of the corridor.

Mr Bennet marched towards the door and flung them open.

____________________

Elizabeth cradled little Henry to sleep but the more she felt the warmth coming from his little body the more tears came down her cheeks. "He looks so much like his father." She thought "A father he doesn't know and a father who doesn't know of his existence. My poor little Henry what have I done to you? Why have I acted so foolishly? Why was I so prejudiced? I've hurt him and there is no hope for reconciliation."

____________________

On hearing the steps in the corridor, Fitzwilliam Darcy turned to look towards the door and just as he did so, the door opened and there stood Mr Bennet.

"Good day, Mr Darcy."

"Mr Bennet?!" Darcy got up from his chair. He was wearing a robe and it seemed he had not shaven in at least three days.

"I have come to talk to you." Said Mr Bennet.

"I don't think we have anything to talk about."

"On the contrary. I have heard you were ill and..."

"I assure you I am well..."

"You don't look well. In fact, you look rotten. You are my son-in-law and..."

"Mr Bennet, please do not feel yourself obliged to come and worry about me. The only thing that we had in common was the love for... for my wife. But that is all gone by... gone just as she is..."

"I don't believe you." Mr Bennet closed the door behind him. "I think you still love her. You love her in spite of all she had done to you... what you have done to each other. I want you to know that I was very much against all her actions but she is strong-headed and wouldn't listen." Darcy was silent.

"Many a thing had happened and I think we should talk." continued Mr Bennet, and Darcy looked even more unsure. "Come, son, we must talk about many things." Mr Bennet took Darcy's arm, seated him in the chair and proceeded in telling him everything he knew about Elizabeth and her feelings. There was only one thing he missed out on purpose. He didn't tell Darcy that Elizabeth gave him a son. It was all too soon for that.

Many hours later, Mr Bennet obtained a promise that Darcy would come with him to the South.

Chapter 19

The next morning Mr Bennet sat in the breakfast room at Pemberley waiting for the master of the house and his son-in-law at the same time to come downstairs. It was almost 9 now and the footman had told Mr Bennet that Mr Darcy has not left his room yet. The footman was very attentive to Mr Bennet, served him with tea and enquired whether Mr Bennet has slept well. To tell the truth the footman was already very impressed with Mr Bennet. It was the first time in his life that he saw someone who could influence Mr Darcy. Mrs Darcy influenced the master as well but Mrs Darcy was not popular among the servants of the house for having left the master who in general opinion was good and generous and never did anything to insult or misbehave to any servant or tenant.

As Mr Darcy was not coming downstairs, Mr Bennet decided to have his breakfast after all Darcy had a difficult night. He must have been rethinking all that was said the previous evening between them and he had most likely fallen asleep at dawn. Having decided that it must have been so, Mr Bennet ate his breakfast and told the footman he would go and sit in the library.

"When Mr Darcy comes down, please tell him that I went to read something." Said Mr Bennet.

"Very well, sir. I will inform Mr Darcy directly." When Mr Bennet disappeared behind the library door the footman sighed and shook his head. What a pity Mrs Darcy did not take after her father.

Hours went by and Mr Bennet lost the track of time. He found Darcy's library very good and when he finally chose a book he wanted to read, the footman came in announcing that lunch was served.

"Is Mr Darcy anywhere to be found?" asked Mr Bennet.

"Mr Darcy came downstairs about an hour ago and I gave him you message, sir. He said he has some pressing business in the village and that he will be back for tea."

"Thank you." Mr Bennet said trying to hide his disappointment. After all Darcy could have come in and say good morning. It wasn't right. Maybe Darcy had second thoughts about going to the South. Maybe after all he decided that reconciliation with Elizabeth was impossible. Maybe I should have told him he had a son. It would definitely make him go and see him. Mr Bennet shook his head and walked to the terrace where his lunch was waiting for him.

_____________________

Meanwhile Elizabeth was sitting in her room at the Gardiner's house and thought about her sorry lot. She has misjudged the only man who was worth her. Nay, she wasn't worth him. He was good and generous and he would have loved her till the end of their days. She would have a wonderful life with him at her side. She would have a home, a husband and children, their children. Well, his child she had. Yet what joy it would be to have this child TOGETHER.

Little Henry steered in his bed but didn't wake up. He was so sweet and innocent, yet he would have to pay dearly for his mother's stupidity. Maybe I should write Darcy a letter...

She sat at her writing desk, took a sheet of paper and began:

My Dear, - no that was hypocritic, he would think even worse of me.

Mr Darcy... - too formal.

My Husband - too sentimental.

Fitzwilliam, - yes that was good:

Fitzwilliam,

please be certain that this letter contains no... what? No begging - but I will beg. No remorse - but I have them. No tearful promises - but I am tearful and I will beg tearfully.

Fitzwiliam,

you may believe me of not... - he will not believe me anyway.

Fitzwilliam,

I write to beg you to agree to meet me as soon as possible in London. I am staying at my Aunt's house in Gracechurch Street.

I know you may not want to see me. Yet, I will not be stopped. I must talk to you this one time and after that you may choose what you want to do, whether you want to forget me or not.

Just this one time. Please.

Elizabeth.

She sealed the envelope and went downstairs to post the letter.

__________________

It was almost 5 pm at Pemberely and Mr Darcy has not returned. Mr Bennet was truly worried. Has Darcy change his mind and decided to avoid his father-in-law?

It was not until dinner that Mr Darcy returned home. Mr Bennet was waiting for him in the little parlour next to the hall.

As soon as Darcy entered the house, Mr Bennet walked out to greet him.

"Son, I was worried..."

"I had some business in the village." Said Darcy without looking Mr Bennet in the eye.

"Is something the matter?"

"No. Why?"

"You seem rather bothered. Have you changed your mind?" asked Mr Bennet.

"I don't want to discuss it."

"But you will. Why are you avoiding me?"

"I'm not avoiding you, Mr Bennet."

"What is it then?"

"I have thought about many things last night and I am not sure I want to see your daughter."

"You must..."

"I must nothing. She has left me, leaving me in no doubt to the state of her sentiments and I doubt her truly changing them now." The previous day, Darcy realised that Elizabeth did not tell her father about their last night together and he chose not to disclose the events of the night either. Those events were not, however, irrelevant to the decision of seeing Elizabeth again.

"You think her being mercenary?'

"She was once." He replied after a moment of silence.

"So you believe that people are not allowed to make mistakes?" Said Mr Bennet.

"Mistakes? I wouldn't call it a mistake. She married me for my money of that I am perfectly aware..."

"But has she used any of your money. You have made a generous settlement on her upon your marriage but she took not a single penny off of it."

That Darcy could not deny. Indeed Elizabeth never took a penny from her pin money.

"If she were mercenary, she would have pleased you and used your money but she didn't. She left you but was never interested in your money."

There was silence.

"Son, you must see her. Just this one time. You must talk and then... then you will see."

Darcy nodded. Just this one time. Why not?

Chapter 20

When Mrs Reynolds was handed a letter to the master of the house - Mr Darcy, he was already halfway to London with his father-in-law. The two men travelled in silence, both contemplating the events of the past few days and anxiously anticipating what was to happen in London. Mr Bennet had not seen his grandson either and the thought of meeting little Henry made him content, yet he was fully aware that the father of the child was oblivious to the fact of his existence, Henry's, not Mr Bennet's.

Darcy on his side was wondering how the meeting with his wife would go. He had not seen her for so many months now and for most of them he was unable to push her out of mind. She was always there, lurking on the outskirts of his consciousness, smiling at him and then suddenly becoming cold and distant.

_____________________

The Saturday morning came and there was still no answer to the letter Elizabeth sent her husband. Maybe he didn't want to talk to her. Maybe he was still furious. Maybe he, after all stopped loving her and chose to live his life having nothing to with her.

Little Henry slept peacefully in his cradle when someone knocked on te door softly. It was the maid who brought the morning post. Elizabeth's attention was at once directed to a thin letter. She turned it only to see the Darcy seal on it. Frantically, she tore it and read:

Madam,

If you would want to see me, please name time and place. I am currently at my house in London.

F. Darcy

She couldn't believe it. He was actually agreeing to meeting him. She ran to her desk and scribbled:

Sir,

If it suits you, may we meet today at noon in Vauxhall Gardens.

E. Darcy

She used her married name on purpose.

_____________________

Upon reading the missive from his wife, Darcy had mixed feelings. He was hoping she would not want to meet him yet deep inside he was glad she wanted to see him.

He looked at his father-in-law.

“She said yes?” asked Mr Bennet.

“Yes, she did. Maybe in spite of what you said, she decided it was better to have money and bear with a distasteful husband than not to have it.”

“Son, give her some credit. Meet her. Learn about her. See who she really is and then make decisions. I want neither of you to be unhappy.”

Darcy looked at him but the expression on his face did not say whether he agreed or disagreed with his father-in-law.

_____________________

A man and a woman were sitting in Vauxhall Gardens. The woman was calm and poised. Her dark hair curly, her face far from classical beauty, however in her eyes there was the very essence of life. A sparkle shone in these brown eyes and it was a sparkle of joy. If one wanted to describe her, one should say, she was a freedom lover. There were green fields, coloured with flowers of all seasons in her deep brown eyes and a warm wind blew the high grass there and a girl was running across the fields and those were the girl's eyes.

Looking at her, one could say she was an ordinary English girl, no English Rose, no beauty but a simple girl with unforgettable eyes.

The man was looking at the woman sitting opposite to him and just couldn't believe what she had just said. She had never read his letter. She married him to save her sister. She admitted she didn't love him at the time of their marriage.

He didn't know what to think and what to feel. She fell silent and did not utter one word having finished her account of what happened. If he but looked into her eyes, he would have known, there was more, she wanted to say.

“Quite frankly Elizabeth, I don't know what to think. You've told me you did not love me and yet you want to make amends. You've left me and now so many months later... I honestly don't know... And then there is this frightful night... I cannot stop thinking how...” He turn his back on her but did not walk away.

“Fitzwilliam,... William... please try not to remember that. We are both to blame for what had happened that night. I, probably more than you, but please let me... let me make it up for you. Let me show...”

“Elizabeth, I will never be able to put that night behind me. I have reached the very bottom of my dark soul and saw it was three o'clock in the morning there*.”

“William” she wanted to say: “I want you.”, but instead she just said: “Let me know you... William, let us start from afresh. No promises. No vows. We will meet each other. We will get to know each other and then we will decide what is best for us... for everybody.”

Darcy looked her in the eyes for the first time this afternoon and for a brief moment he thought he saw love there but he dismissed such notion and said:

“Very well. I agree.”

She smiled at him. She told him the complete truth. Well, it was almost complete. She did not tell him about Henry.

_____________________

On the way to her carriage, they've decided that they would meet everyday, at noon and go for a walk alone. And so it was everyday. At first they met somewhere in Town, then Darcy would come and take her from the Gardiners and they would drive off, sometimes outside of London for a picnic, sometimes to this or that park in London.

Mr Bennet did not disclose his presence in Town to Elizabeth but having spoken with Darcy after he returned from his first meeting with Elizabeth, Mr Bennet was sure the couple would make up and he could postpone meeting his grandson till then.

The gossiping ladies of the ton, were more than thrilled. The phantom Mrs Darcy appreared. The spice was added to all gossip when it turned out that the Darcys did not inhabit together and that Mrs Darcy was staying with her relatives in Cheapside, and Mr Darcy would visit her there.

_____________________

It was almost three months since Darcy and Elizabeth began their strange courtship where both parties courted and denied the same fact. The first meetings were awkward but with time the awkwardness had disappeared and they began looking forward to their next meeting. They've got to know each other and discovered the security that the presence of the other gave each of them. At the beginning Darcy thought that she was trying to deceive him but soon he came to a conclusion that she could not conceal her true feelings for such a long time and gave up such thoughts.

It was one sunny afternoon and they were enjoying the picnic just outside London when suddenly Darcy leaned over an brushed his lips against hers. She blushed and after a moment of hesitation touched his lips with hers. Their kiss was slow and longing. It was the first time they have kissed since... neither of them wanted to remember since when. The longing won over the slowness and their kiss deepened.

When they finally broke away from each other Darcy spoke first:

“Elizabeth, I love you. I have always loved you. I...”

“I love you, too. I cannot tell how or since when but I love you and I cannot go on without you...”

“Elizabeth promise me that you will always, always tell me anything that bothers you. Promise to tell me the truth and nothing but the truth.”

“William, I... I cannot promise” the smile faded away from his face, “I cannot promise you that before I do something. Please come with me.”

He followed her to the carriage.

“Elizabeth, what happened?”

“You will see.”

The journey back to London was a silent one. When they have finally reached Gracechurch Street, Lizzy asked Darcy to come inside with her.

She led him upstairs. She asked him to wait outside one of the rooms for a moment and having entered it asked the maid to leave. She picked up Henry and called for Darcy to come in.

The door opened. There was an strange expression on Darcy's face which Elizabeth could not see through.

“Mr Darcy meet your son Henry Bennet Darcy. Master Darcy, this is your father.”

There was silence in the room.

“William, I can now promise that I will always tell you the absolute truth and nothing but the truth.” Said Elizabeth.

Darcy did not speak. It was the longest 60 seconds of Elizabeth's life before Darcy walked to them and hugged them both.

“Elizabeth, I love you and... I hate you. But I don't want to part with you... you or my son. I've waited for this moment for such a long time.”

“You mean... you mean you are not mad at me for not telling you about Henry,”

He was silent and looked at her slightly sheepishly.

“What does this mean?” she asked.

“This means...”

“Oh dear, you knew! You knew about Henry! And you let me not tell you. How did you know?” cried Elizabeth.

“I'm slightly ashamed but... well, one day I came slightly earlier for our meeting and I saw a nanny with a baby carriage leaving this house and you kissing the baby goodbye. I had my footman learn whose child it was and was told it was yours and how old he was and what his name was. I've added the things together and figured all out. Then I've asked your father...”

“My father? What does he have to do with it?”

“He made me come to London to talk to you.”

“I cannot believe it!” exclaimed she. “Men!”

They both laughed. Darcy took his son into his arms and walked to the door.

“What are you doing?”

Not bothering to answer her, he opened the door and called the baby's nurse. “Please take care of my son, I need to talk to my wife.” Said he passing the boy to the nurse and kissing his forehead. He then closed the door and walked towards his wife.

"What I am doing right now, is showing you your man. The real man you have married." He walked up to her and taking her face between his hands, placed a soft kiss on her lips. He pulled Lizzy into his arms and savouring her smell said: "I think this calls for celebration, my sweetest, loveliest Elizabeth." Slowly, he undressed her. She was glorious as she stood there, her sculpted body.... He ran his hand over her belly and down the back of her tight, smooth bottom. His fingers played between her hips, squeezing it as he pulled her towards him and then moved up to the small of her back. "Undress me." he whispered and she followed his request, removing his cloths and massaging his body. He returned the favour, rubbing her lower back, occasionally gently tugging her love handles.

He held her hand and led her to the edge of the bed. He sat her on its side kissing her sensually. He broke the kiss to look at her and they locked their eyes and smiled. She put her lips on his burning ones. Soft. Gentle. It felt wonderful to him. Finally, he eased her onto the bed. He sank down to the perfect height to have Lizzy's exposed sex right in front of his eyes. Then he reached for her and brought his mouth to her breasts. He cupped her breasts and squeezed them then pinched her rock hard nipples. She pressed herself into him, licking his neck. He kept rubbing her nipples and started kissing his way down, placing her under himself. He slid down her smooth body, his lips and tongue all over her tingling nakedness. She spread her legs with a moan of anticipation, her hips humping to the instinctive thrust of her desire. He leaned and busied his tongue and mouth with the task of bringing her to orgasm. He could feel her hands on the back of his head directing his face to lick her where she wanted and when she wanted. He felt her get wetter and wetter with every lick, and heard her breath louder each time he touched her with his lips. She was panting and sweating. "Oh my God, oh yes" - she moaned. He knew he hit the right spot. She came screaming his name.

He smiled looking at her lust-clouded eyes. She reached out her hand and gently rubbed up the inside of his thigh, sending shivers through him. He entered her gently, delighting in the warmth and wetness of her. A look of bliss crossed her face as she engulfed him. She felt how aroused he was. He started sliding faster into her, kissing her lips. A part of him wanted to furiously have his way with her but somehow he sensed she enjoyed the gentle way.

Epilogue

A man and woman were sitting in Vauxhall Gardens. The woman was animated, talking. Her dark hair curly, her face far from classical beauty, however in her eyes there was the very essence of life. A sparkle shone in these brown eyes and it was a sparkle of joy. If one wanted to describe her, one should say, she was a freedom lover. There were green fields, coloured with flowers of all seasons in her deep brown eyes and a warm wind blew the high grass there and a girl was running across the fields and those were the girl's eyes.

Looking at her, one could say she was an ordinary English girl, no English Rose, no beauty but a simple girl with unforgettable eyes.

The man was looking at the woman sitting opposite to him. There was a try of understanding in his eyes but he was not convinced. It seemed that whatever she would say, and no matter how hard he would try, everything would be too improbable for him to believe in. Admiringly, he marvelled at her want to make him understand.

To make him understand that to live one's life was to seat at its table and reach out for what one desired, loved and hated most.

_____________________

Mr and Mrs Darcy decided that it was best for them and everybody else if they tried to be husband and wife. They've taken little Henry and on their way to Pemberley, visited Longbourn.

Their appearance together caused great uproar in this noble estate but the lady's parents decided that it was good to have their daughter restored to the family.

It took much harder to convince the Fitzwilliams as well as Georgiana but when all the family accepted the invitation to Pemberely for the Christmas festivities that year and saw how happy with each other Mr and Mrs Darcy were, they've decided to forget the past.

And so they've lived happily ever after.


THE END

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