Come What May
Part 1- An Interesting Courtship

Prologue

January 23, 1807
Longbourn

Mr. Thomas Bennet closed the door to his library, depressed and not wanting to speak with anyone. He silently poured himself a glass of port in the fading twilight and sat down heavily behind his desk, ignoring the paperwork that lay piled on the surface. Six weeks ago he buried his wife and two youngest daughters, while his three remaining daughters remained at home in shock and grief, Elizabeth finally well again from her time spent in the frigid water. The funeral was well attended by those of Meryton and his neighbors had been most kind in their condolences. In those six weeks hence, he had not spoken to anyone, except the occasional servant, and he had not said more than a passing comment to any of his remaining daughters, save Elizabeth to inquire after her health. He knew not what to say, to any of them. The accident that took their mother and sisters was ghastly, the footman not surviving the tumble down into the icy December waters, and the driver passing a week later. Mrs. Bennet and Kitty had died instantly, but Lydia held on until he arrived, and had died in his arms. Elizabeth had been pulled from the water by Sir Lucas and his son, and thankfully did not suffer any serious injuries other than a bump on the head. A week later she was up and about again, much to his relief, but quite depressed.

A soft knock at the door made him scowl and almost mutter an obscenity. Before he could remark however, the curly head of his sixteen-year old daughter, Elizabeth, peeked around the corner.

“Papa? Are you there?” It was dark in the room and she could not make out the figure behind the desk.

“Yes Lizzy.”

She quietly crept into the room, her face pale from her illness and eyes wide with worry and a little fear. Her father had been so beside himself with grief that no one had braved speaking with him, except Elizabeth. It had been mostly a one-sided conversation at best. That had been two days ago, and she had seen little of him since. In the six weeks since the accident he had not spoken hardly a word to Jane or Mary.

“Papa, we have been worried for you. Will you not come to dinner?”

Mr. Bennet sighed at his daughter. “Not now Lizzy.”

She nodded her acceptance with a forlorn look in his direction and turned to leave when he spoke again.

“How are your sisters Elizabeth?”

His question brought out a fiery rage within, despite her depression and weakness. Without turning, she stared towards the window and replied. “They are grieving, we all are Papa. But they do not avoid everyone who comes to call. And we do not avoid each other.” This last came out more severe than she intended, but the weeks of pent up grief and neglect had done nothing to raise her spirits.

“Elizabeth Rose! How dare you speak to me in such an insolent manner!” he cried, rising from his chair threateningly.

She whirled around to face him, her green eyes glittering with anger and hot tears sliding down her cheeks. “And how dare you, sir, neglect your remaining daughters!” Moving towards him, she noticed the pain in his eyes but surged on regardless, her own anger blinding her coherent thought. “You move through this house like a ghost, wandering from room to room, not speaking to anyone and when someone dares to speak to you, you answer with such contempt! Are we to be cast aside while you hide in your library with your books and port? Do you not think I feel just as much guilt as you do? I am the only one who survived! If you are casting us aside, then maybe we should have went back to London with my Uncle Gardiner. Or perhaps we should return with Andrew and Patrick to Scotland! Would that meet your approval Sir?”

Turning back around, she stalked towards the door, only to be stopped by her father's hand on her shoulder. “Lizzy, please…”

Elizabeth turned slowly and was gently enfolded into her father's embrace. Mr. Bennet held her tightly, whispering apologies and calming her while she cried. He closed his eyes as his own tears began to fall. His grief nothing compared to the anger and hurt he had caused his favorite daughter.

“Papa? We heard raised voices…”

Jane and Mary appeared in the doorway with frightened expressions on their faces. The weeks of silence and angry outbursts had made Jane and Mary fearful of their father, and it took all their bravery to enter the once welcoming library. He motioned them towards him and engulfed them all in one giant hug. It was at that moment he decided that he would never neglect his daughters again. They would be well educated, both in society and knowledge. He would take them to London when their mourning was complete and let them experience the society that he had forbidden his family all these years.

April 1809
St. James Court
The Gallery

Elizabeth grasped her older sister's hands in hers and gave them a squeeze. “Oh Jane, you look beautiful!”

Jane blushed slightly. “As do you Lizzy. I cannot believe we are here!”

Elizabeth glanced around the room filled with ladies in elegant white gowns, their trains gracefully held in their left arms, all awaiting their turn to be presented to the Queen. In sharp contrast were the scarlet coats of the lords in waiting that attended the Queen, and subsequently hovered around the ladies, moving them about in their haste to see them all through the doors to Her Majesty. The atmosphere was one of nervous apprehension, but Jane and Elizabeth felt none of this. Not being accustomed to London society, they did not feel the added pressure that some of these young ladies felt, but instead were nervous with excitement.

“Girls, are you ready?”

Jane and Elizabeth looked up to see their Aunt Gardiner, and her sister, Lady Aston, smiling at them. “Yes, we are ready Aunt.” Elizabeth answered for them.

Lady Aston took Elizabeth's arm gently. “Madeline will escort Jane, and I you. But first there is someone I would like you to meet. She is the daughter of an old friend of mine. Maddie, we will be back shortly.”

Elizabeth nodded and let Lady Aston lead her away to another area of the room as Aunt Gardiner took Jane towards the door of the chamber that held the Queen. She couldn't help but notice the glances they were receiving from the other inhabitants of the room. While Jane and Elizabeth looked beautiful, their gowns held nothing to the glittering confections of some of the upper aristocracy. Instead, they were tastefully simple and very elegant, and very much the influence of Aunt Gardiner and Lady Aston. The two sisters felt their nieces needed no such adornments; their own beauty was enough. Elizabeth could hear whisperings all around her as Lady Aston led her through the throng to her friend, and felt several pairs of analyzing eyes on her.

“Isabella! It has been so long!” an elegant lady exclaimed, stepping forward to kiss Lady Aston on the cheek with a smile.

“Christine, how are you?” Lady Aston inquired pleasantly.

“I am well Isabella.” The lady paused, noticing her friend was not alone. Lady Aston hastened aside to introduce Elizabeth.

“Forgive me Christine, Elizabeth, this is an old friend of mine, Christine Fitzwilliam, Countess of Matlock. She hails from Derbyshire. Christine, this is Miss Elizabeth Bennet, Madeline's niece.”

Elizabeth curtsied gracefully with a warm smile. “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Lady Matlock nodded at her, a sense of disapproval in her eyes, but mostly silent, offering no more than a perfunctory greeting. She then turned to a young woman standing behind her with a nervous expression on her face.

“This is my daughter, Lady Sophia. Sophia, this is Lady Isabella Aston.” Lady Sophia curtsied to them and Lady Aston quickly introduced her to Elizabeth.

During the introduction, Elizabeth could help but notice the hint of disapproval coming from Lady Matlock. Her daughter was pleasant enough, without any reproach whatsoever. She quickly dismissed it, thinking she would never see this lady again and decided to not let it bother her. Elizabeth inquired of Lady Sophia if she was excited to see the Queen, and she nodded that she was. The poor girl looked scared to death, Elizabeth thought, undoubtedly worried that she may make a mistake during her presentation. Elizabeth held a mostly one-sided conversation with the shy girl, and at length, Lady Aston led her away, promising to call on her old friend as soon as may be. When they were far enough away, Lady Aston gave Elizabeth an apologetic look.

“I am truly sorry Lizzy. Lady Matlock is an old friend, but she, like several here, tend to look down upon anyone who is not of their rank and importance. She truly is a kind person, but she has changed much over the years.”

“Do not trouble yourself, I am not bothered. It is unlikely I will see her again anyway. Her daughter, though, is very pleasant, if not a little quiet. She truly looked frightened!”

“That's the spirit Lizzy; although I am quite sorry she acted like that. And you are correct; Lady Sophia is a pleasant girl.”

Elizabeth nodded in agreement. The two found their way through the crowd and waited for Elizabeth to be summoned. When at long last she was called, Lady Aston took her arm and led her to the doorway, adjusting the feathers in her hair and giving her a comforting kiss on the cheek. Elizabeth handed her card to an attendant lord in waiting while another took her train and spread it out behind her. With a nervous smile, Elizabeth took a last look at Lady Aston and walked into the Presence Room to be presented to the Queen.

A short time later, Elizabeth met Jane and Mrs. Gardiner outside in the Gallery where they had been waiting. Elizabeth and Jane embraced each other warmly and Elizabeth embraced her Aunt.

“Oh Aunt, she is so beautiful, so elegant!” Elizabeth told her Aunt excitedly.

“Yes my dear, she is. Come, let us take some tea.” Elizabeth followed her Aunt, Jane and Lady Aston, glancing around the room seeing that the most of the ladies had looks of relief on their faces.

The ladies sat down with their tea and cake and chatted for a few minutes, commenting on the gowns, the room itself, and the number of military officers that now seemed to fill the room at these events, hoping to glance at what the season held. Elizabeth, always the observer, was struck by the splendor of the officers' uniforms in contrast with the pristine white gowns of the ladies. It was truly a beautiful site, one she would not forget for quite some time.

As they prepared to take their leave, Lady Aston bid farewell to her friend Lady Matlock while Mrs. Gardiner, Jane and Elizabeth recovered their wraps and waited for the carriage to come around. It was crowded near the door, and with a wide hoop skirt that she wasn't used to, and the press of the people, somewhere along the way she had lost her fan. It was not just any fan; it was her mother's and meant the world to her. Frustrated and a little upset, she began to try to search around when she noticed her Aunt Gardiner smiling at her and directing her to turn around.

She turned to see a handsome cavalry officer standing before her in his dress uniform, smiling and holding her beloved fan in his hands. His piercing, dark blue eyes looked at her questioningly as he held the fan towards her. She instantly blushed, her heart skipping a beat as Aunt Gardiner came up behind her.

“I believe this is yours?” he asked in a lovely deep voice with a smile. The blushing lady before him was quite beautiful, and not of his acquaintance.

She nodded and took the fan from him, her heart beginning to pound the longer she kept eye contact with him. “Yes, thank you.”

“The pleasure is mine.” He bowed to her and her aunt and turned to make his way into the crowd, Elizabeth watching his departure through the sea of people. She felt a little warm, and was desperately trying to remember to breathe. With a deep breath, she quickly flipped open her fan and waved it in front of her face.

“Lizzy, are you alright?” her aunt asked her with a smile. She was no stranger to the effect an officer had on ladies, but she never would have thought her Lizzy to take notice.

“I am well,” Elizabeth answered breathlessly, watching the officer wind his way through the crowd still. Lady Aston, who had just come back from Lady Matlock, followed Elizabeth's gaze with a smile.

Lady Aston gently led her towards the door to where the carriage, along with their cousins, were waiting. She knew who the handsome officer was, and knew this wasn't time for that introduction. Elizabeth let herself be led towards the exit, still fanning her face.

Before Elizabeth made her way out the door, she turned one last time to scan the room, taking in its splendor one more time, and met his stare. The officer was at least a head taller than any other gentleman in the room, so it was easy for her to see him over the throng of people assembled. He was walking towards her with a faint smile on his lips, his eyes never leaving hers as he ignored those around him. Embarrassed at being caught staring, and realizing the inappropriateness of the situation, she quickly turned to walk outside.

He followed her departure, stopping at the door to watch as a Highland officer handed her into a carriage, and then followed her inside. The lady leaned forward to look out the window, and again met his gaze. She smiled brightly towards him as the carriage pulled down the street.

Elizabeth knew then that she would never forget his eyes for as long as she lived.

And he knew he would never forget her smile. He was intrigued.


March 24, 1810
Hunsford Church- Kent

Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam accepted a kiss from his Aunt Catherine as he entered the parlor at Rosings, Georgiana on his arm and beaming with happiness. The two had ridden back with Lord and Lady Matlock from the happy wedding of his cousins, Fitzwilliam Darcy and Anne DeBourgh. The entire family had turned out for the wedding that had been planned since the newlyweds had been in their cradles, and now Rosings was crowded with family members from all parts of England for the wedding breakfast.

“Richard, how are you feeling?” his aunt asked softly. She had noticed his slight limp as he walked down the aisle behind the Darcy's and became concerned.

“I am well Aunt, just a little sore,” he told her with a weak smile. In reality, his leg ached terribly, but he did not wish to worry her.

She touched his cheek with her hand and flicked a gold button on the front of his uniform. “Well, I am most pleased to hear it! And I don't think you should go back to Spain! You should resign from the Army and stay with me at Rosings!”

“I thank you Aunt, but I must decline. Duty and honor prevent me from accepting your kind offer, and besides, you would tire of me quickly I fear!”

“Nonsense, Richard! I am your aunt; I should never tire of you! Well, I am displeased, but I understand.” She stepped closer to him so only he could hear her words. “You need not worry about your future, my dear. Your Uncle Darcy and myself have seen to that.”

Richard blushed slightly, which was a feat within its self. “I thank you Aunt Catherine.” Always uncomfortable with the mention of his inheritance, and his position in the Army, he bent to kiss her upturned cheek.

“I know you think that since you are the second son you must do something to support yourself, but if you would only…”

“Catherine, are you after Richard to live with you at Rosings again?” Lord Matlock's voice had a terse tone but the wide smile on his face betrayed the harshness of his words.

“Oh, Edward! There really is no reason for him to stay in the Army! Why, he could have been killed!”

Never keen on the subject of his mortality, Richard silently backed away from his father and aunt and made his way out to the garden for some quiet. He hated when his inheritance was the topic of conversation, and it had been talked of a great deal more since he returned from Spain injured. His relations meant well, but it made him uncomfortable. As a second son, he had to do something to support himself, even if he did have an inheritance. He would not live off charity; his pride would not allow it for an instant.

“Richard!”

Richard turned to see his newly married cousin Darcy headed towards him with a jovial smile on his usually stern countenance.

“Hiding from our guests?” Darcy asked with a teasing smile.

“Not at all. I was looking for a bit of fresh air.”

Darcy smiled at his cousin knowingly. He had overheard the conversation between Richard and his Aunt Catherine and knew that his cousin would make his exit soon after.

“Come now Richard, they are right you know. You were always a favorite of my parents, and Aunt Catherine. They never wanted you to join the Army.”

Richard sat down on an ornate stone bench and sighed, stretching out his injured leg carefully. “I will not take charity Darcy! I am grateful for all your parents and Aunt Catherine have done for me, but I intend to stay in the Army for now, I must.” It is all I know, he added silently to himself.

Darcy sat down next to his cousin and nodded understandingly. “Richard, I understand, truly I do. But my Father left Somersby to you because he wanted you to have a home when you were through with the Army. If it had not have gone to you, then it would have went to some other unknown relative. There is no reason for you not to take up some residence there. I can look after the place while you are away; it's not that far from Pemberley, but…,” He paused; the look coming from his cousin told him this conversation was fruitless. “And besides…” He paused again here, knowing that this subject would not be welcomed either. “You will marry someday. Would you not rather marry for love, than for fortune? Maybe you already have someone in mind?” Darcy finished with a slight smirk that his cousin missed entirely.

Richard pondered his cousin's remark. While he was no stranger to the drawing rooms of London, and had been introduced to many an eligible lady, none had induced him to pursue any more than just a casual acquaintance. His life as an officer did not allow the time for romance and courtship.

“No cousin, I have no one in mind,” he replied as Darcy stood and left him for his new wife. For some reason his mind traveled back to the day that his sister was presented to the Queen, something over the past year he had given little thought to. What had stayed with him, however, was the beautiful lady whose fan he had recovered. She had stayed in his thoughts and dreams for several weeks afterward, and while on the peninsula. He had no idea who she was, for he had never seen her at any ball or soiree since that day. Before being sent to the peninsula, he had searched every drawing room, and the dreaded Almack's, only to never see her again. It seemed as if she had disappeared from London completely, but her smile had never left his memory.


Chapter 1

October 20, 1811
Meryton

A finely turned out carriage bearing an exquisite coat of arms rolled slowly through Meryton, its passengers curious and looking out the windows at their surroundings. They surveyed the scene with apprehension, but decided not to judge too harshly.

“My dear, does it not remind you a little of Lambton?”

Fitzwilliam Darcy looked up at his wife Anne, holding their sleeping daughter Rebecca and glanced out the window, “you could say it does I imagine.”

“Look William, there are little shops just like the ones in Lambton!” Georgiana Darcy exclaimed. Mr. Darcy smiled at his sister's enthusiasm and was grateful her spirits had somewhat returned after the events of the summer past. For too long she had been withdrawn, and still was to a certain extent. He hoped this trip to Hertfordshire would lift her spirits before her presentation in the spring.

The carriage rolled out of town and down a lane flanked by woods and grassy meadows on both sides. Georgiana smiled with delight and Darcy commented on the sport that must be plentiful here. They turned down the lane that led to Netherfield, according to Darcy, who had been there to survey the place with his friend Charles Bingley several months before. They reached a clearing in the trees and suddenly the grand house came into sight.

“A very fine prospect! Very fine indeed! Mr. Bingley must be pleased!” Anne said happily. It made her quite happy to see the outgoing Mr. Bingley somewhat settled in his own estate, even if this one was just being leased.

“Are Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst here?” Georgiana asked, her smiling fading a little.

“Yes they are Georgiana,” Mr. Darcy answered evenly. He had endured Miss Bingley's attentions for years, and even after he had married Anne, she still persisted, but not quite as obvious as before. He did not like Miss Bingley's influence on his sister either, but he knew that Anne would shield her from the worst of it. He only hoped the society of Hertfordshire was not too savage. From what his friend had told him in his last letter, he found it quite pleasing, but then again, Bingley found most everything and everyone quite pleasing.

The Darcys were met at the door by their host and his sisters, who were quite happy to see them, and Miss Bingley was almost vulgar in her greeting. They all chatted easily while they entered the house; Mr. Bingley remarking on how much Miss Rebecca had grown. Being on the road for such a long time, the ladies asked that they be excused to their chambers to rest before dinner, and to take the still napping Rebecca to the nursery Bingley had prepared. Darcy joined Bingley in the library where he offered his best friend a glass of port and a comfortable chair.

“Well Darce, what do you think?”

“I think it a very fine estate Charles. Have you met many of the neighbors?”

Charles smiled at his friend and finished his port, “yes I have! Mr. Bennet lives to the west, in an estate called Longbourn. He has three daughters that I have yet to become acquainted with. Sir William Lucas is to the west as well. He has two sons and two daughters. I have had the pleasure of dining with him and his family.”

Darcy nodded and sipped his port, “and what of the society? You said it was pleasing?”

“So far. We have all invited to an assembly in Meryton tomorrow night. Will you come with us?”

Darcy paused before answering, thinking carefully while sipping his port. Georgiana was not out yet, and he hesitated to subject her to the questionable society they may find. But, this might just be the thing to start her on the road to being herself again. “Let me speak with Anne. Georgiana is not out yet, as you know.”

Bingley nodded and grinned. “Yes, yes, I understand. I did hear that there are two ladies that will be there that are not out yet either. Miss Mariah Lucas, Sir William's youngest daughter, she is Georgiana's age, and Mr. Bennet I believe has a daughter that is not out as of yet.”

In the end, after much pleading from Georgiana and approval from Anne, Darcy relented to allowing his sister to attend the assembly with the agreement that she would not dance, but just watch. This seemed to appease her and the next evening they all left Netherfield for the assembly.


October 21, 1811
Meryton Assembly

Caroline Bingley looked down her nose at the dancers that were frolicking about the floor with disdain. She had dreaded coming here tonight, knowing the society to be quite savage and utterly boring. Her brother had insisted on acquainting her with everyone, and she had suffered through introductions to a multitude of unimportant neighbors, with the exception of the famed Miss Bennets. Something about their names was familiar, and she commented as much to her sister Louisa, but they shrugged it off as coincidence. As if anyone of Hertfordshire society would be familiar to them! So, the two sisters continued to stare from their seats along the dance floor, frowning at everyone who passed by and utterly bored with their evening.

***
Mr. Bennet helped his daughters down from the carriage and escorted them into the assembly, much to their delight. It was the first such assembly since the summer, and Elizabeth and Jane so loved to dance. They were also quite excited to meet their new neighbor Mr. Bingley and his friends, for Mr. Bennet had spoken of him most highly.

The Bennets left their outerwear at the door and made their way into the hall where people were milling about and conversing. Mr. Bennet nodded at his neighbors that said a passing hello, and then spotted Mr. Bingley across the room.

“My dears, would you like to meet our new neighbor Mr. Bingley?”

Elizabeth and Jane nodded eagerly and Mr. Bennet escorted his daughters over to where Mr. Bingley was standing with his sisters and another couple whom he had not yet met.

“Mr. Bennet! It is good to see you again sir!” Mr. Bingley exclaimed, bowing smartly to Mr. Bennet.

“Mr. Bingley, good evening, may I present my daughters, my eldest Jane and my second eldest Elizabeth.”

Jane and Elizabeth curtsied gracefully and smiled at their new neighbor, for he seemed to be a pleasing sort of man. Mr. Bingley quickly introduced his sister Caroline and Mr. and Mrs. Hurst, and then moved on to the Darcys.

“Mr. Bennet, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance,” Mr. Darcy said pleasantly, a wide-eyed Georgiana on his arm. “Please do not think me forward, Sir, but might I ask a favor?”

Mr. Bennet nodded with slight hesitation, and Mr. Darcy continued. “My sister, Georgiana is not out yet but has come with us tonight. I was hoping to introduce her to some of the younger ladies who would not be partaking of tonight's festivities.”

Mr. Bennet understood immediately and motioned for him to follow. He then introduced Mr. Darcy and Georgiana to Mary and subsequently to Mariah Lucas. The three got along well and Darcy was pleased that Georgiana was being somewhat outgoing. She was then introduced to Elizabeth and Jane and she began to open up readily.

The dancing soon was underway again and Jane danced the next with Mr. Bingley while Elizabeth danced the next with Mariah's older brother Christopher. Mr. Darcy and his wife joined them, after much prodding from Mrs. Darcy. Elizabeth noted throughout the evening that Mr. Bingley paid quite a bit of attention to Jane, who in turn looked quite pleased. As Elizabeth found a seat to sit out a dance, her father sat down next to her.

“So Lizzy, what do you think of our new neighbor?”

Elizabeth watched as Mr. Bingley escorted her sister through the dance, Jane's face bright with happiness. “Well, he shows good judgment by standing up with Jane.”

Mr. Bennet chuckled, “indeed he does my dear.”

Elizabeth shared a laugh with her father and looked around the room, noticing Mr. Bingley's sisters looked out of sorts, and said as much to her father.

“Well Lizzy, I understand they are part of the ton, and most likely not pleased with our little assembly.”

“I believe you are correct Papa.”


Caroline Bingley stood across the room next to her sister with a scowl on her face. “Louisa, this is intolerable! How can Charles expect us to move in this society?”

Mrs. Hurst nodded her head in agreement. Anne Darcy, however, who was standing just behind the two, was having a wonderful time getting to know Jane, Elizabeth and Charlotte and decided to voice her opinion.

“Really Caroline, if you would make the effort to speak you may feel differently. I have been speaking with the Misses Bennet's and Miss Lucas and they are quite delightful. And,” Anne decided to add this bit, “they come to London for the season.” Caroline tended to judge people without knowing anything of them, and Anne was determined to not let her ruin their acquaintance.

“But their gowns are so plain Anne! I can scarce believe they move in London society!”

Anne pursed her lips but held her tongue. There was no need to argue with Caroline, for she hardly ever listened to reason! Instead, she took her leave to find her husband, who was conversing with Mr. Bennet.

“Ah Anne, I was just telling Mr. Bennet of Richard coming soon to train the militia and his regiment.”

Anne smiled at the mention of one of her favorite cousins. “Yes of course! Richard and his regiment will be here soon! I hope the ladies of Hertfordshire are ready for him!”

Mr. Bennet raised his eyebrows at this statement and Darcy realized he had gotten the wrong idea. “My cousin cuts quite the dashing figure in his uniform Mr. Bennet. He is a colonel in the cavalry and will be coming here to train his regiment, as well as the local militia. He is a very honorable man and quite the gentleman.”

“And handsome too,” Anne said with a laugh.

“Well, I daresay he will be most welcome in Meryton,” Mr. Bennet told them good-naturedly.

“Who shall be welcome Papa?” asked Jane, as she and Elizabeth had walked up at the end of their conversation and hadn't heard whom they were speaking of.

Anne smiled at the gentleman and with a small curtsey, took Jane and Elizabeth's arms to take a turn about the room. “My cousin Richard is coming to Meryton to train the militia and his regiment.”

“Is he in the regulars?” Elizabeth asked politely.

“Yes, he is a Colonel in the cavalry.”

“For invasion?” Jane answered with a little fear in her voice. She was always worried about the French invading England.

Anne laughed, “yes, but my cousin says the British Navy would never let Napoleon through, and that we have nothing to worry about.”

“Oh, well that is a comfort!” Elizabeth replied for Jane's benefit. “What sort of man is he?”

“He is very intelligent and quite the gentleman. Richard has spent time on the peninsula and thankfully came back to us mostly unharmed. I shall introduce you to him when he arrives!”

“We shall be most pleased to make his acquaintance then!” Jane replied, her apprehension of the French forgotten.

Anne nodded and they continued to walk around the room, a thought forming in her mind. While her husband frowned at her matchmaking attempts, Elizabeth was such a lively creature, and quite pretty, and she desperately wanted her cousin to find someone of his own. And she could not resist where Richard was concerned, for he was so amiable and kind that he would not be angry with her. Anne smiled to herself as she tucked her arm through Elizabeth's. They would make a fine match indeed!

***
The path between Netherfield and Longbourn became well worn in the weeks after the Meryton assembly. Jane, Elizabeth and Mary called on Anne and Georgiana several times at Netherfield, and they returned the calls happily, already calling each other by their Christian names. Elizabeth and Jane doted on the young Miss Rebecca Darcy, along with Georgiana. Elizabeth and Georgiana spent hours at the pianoforte, learning new pieces and going over ones already known. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst however, who had little tolerance for children, and did not wish to subject themselves to the Bennets society, spent much of their time trying to convince their brother to take them back to London. Mr. Bennet was quite pleased with the friendship, and Mr. Bingley was very happy to see Jane quite often. He was quickly becoming smitten with her, much to his sisters' dismay.

A week after the Meryton assembly found Charlotte Lucas walking to Longbourn to issue an invitation to a party at Lucas Lodge. She arrived that afternoon to find Anne and Georgiana in attendance in the Longbourn parlour as well.

“Mrs. Darcy, Miss Darcy, we would love to have you at our little party. It will not be much, just conversation and cards,” Charlotte told them.

Anne smiled at Georgiana, who was most eager to go, “we shall be delighted to attend. I can only speak for myself, Georgiana and Mr. Darcy…”

Charlotte nodded, “My father has already extended an invitation to Mr. Bingley and his family.”

Elizabeth looked from her new friend to her old friend with a smile, “well then, we shall be a merry bunch!”

November 5, 1811
Lucas Lodge

“To think, we would need his assistance in society!” Caroline tersely said to her sister as they walked away form their host. Sir William had offered an introduction at St James court and the effect was not the one he had intended.

“Caroline!” Anne exclaimed, shocked at the lady's lack of modesty. She had been near enough to hear Caroline's treatment of Sir William and was appalled.

Miss Bingley turned to see Anne staring at her with a dark look, and simply scoffed at her, “Why would we need his assistance? He is a knight, not an earl! I am sure he kept a very good shop, but really!”

Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley giggled at the thought of the shop Sir William kept and Anne shook her head, walking away before she said something improper. She sought out her husband and took refuge next to him as he gazed out a window.

“William! Caroline has gone too far! You should have heard the way she spoke to Sir William!”

Mr. Darcy took his wife's hand and kissed it lovingly, immediately calming her, “I will speak to Charles my love, do not be upset.”

Anne nodded and took his arm gratefully. The two walked over to the settee where Elizabeth and Georgiana were speaking in hushed tones, their heads touching each other's. Mr. Darcy frowned at the sight, not wanting Georgiana exposed to gossip. They had only known the Bennet's for a short time, and while Anne approved of the sisters, he would remain skeptical until he was convinced otherwise. The two looked up at their approach and Georgiana's face lit up in a smile.

“William, Anne! Elizabeth was telling of a piece she had just acquired, and we are going to learn a duet sometime!”

Mr. Darcy glanced down and saw that they were neither whispering nor gossiping, but were looking over sheet music that sat between them. He instantly felt guilty, and it showed keenly on his face.

“William, what ever is the matter?” Georgiana asked with concern at her brother's sudden change in demeanor.

He smiled at his sister sheepishly and seated his wife, “tis nothing. I am going to speak with Charles.” With a kiss to Anne's hand, he left to find his friend.

Anne nodded as her husband left them and Elizabeth and Georgiana looked at her, waiting for her to explain. She sighed, her frustration evident, “Caroline has been quite rude to Sir William, and I have had enough.”

Georgiana patted her sister in law's hand. “Well, I wish William good luck. Charles has not left Miss Bennet's side since they arrived!”

Elizabeth blushed for her sister and smiled, “Indeed he has not.”

“Elizabeth, if I may be so bold…does your sister hold any particular regard for Mr. Bingley?” Anne asked quietly, her curiosity overwhelming her.

Elizabeth hesitated before answering. She would never betray Jane's confidence, except that they hadn't spoken privately of Mr. Bingley, but only a few times, “well, she has not said anything to me, but she looks very pleased.”

“Well, he calls her an angel,” Georgiana said to her giggling.

“I think we shall have to wait and see where this leads,” Anne told her with a wink.

“Where what leads?” Charlotte inquired, joining Anne on the sofa.

“We were discussing Mr. Bingley's attentions to Jane,” Elizabeth replied quietly so no one would hear in passing.

“Well, he does certainly seem to single her out a great deal, but I do not think he gets much encouragement from his sisters, they do not seem to be pleased.”

Anne shook her head, “Indeed they are not Charlotte, but it is no matter. Charles is grown man and can decide for himself who he wants to pay attentions to. He has been quite happy these past couple of days!”

As the evening drew to a close and the Bennet's departed for Longbourn, Anne's words echoed through Elizabeth's head the rest of the night. Long after they had returned home, Elizabeth still pondered Mr. Bingley's actions when a knock at her door startled her.

“Come in.”

Jane, dressed for bed and wrapped in a shawl entered her room and closed the door behind her. She climbed onto Elizabeth's bed with a smile.

“Jane, you look quite well.”

Jane beamed at her sister, “oh Lizzy, he is everything a young man ought to be.”

She didn't have to ask to whom she was referring. Her sister's heart was genuine, but she had a tendency to fall in love easily. “Jane, be careful.”

“Why Lizzy, do you think me in danger?”

Elizabeth took her hands in hers, not wishing to distress her, “Jane, do you not want to know his character better first before deciding what your true feelings are?”

“Oh Lizzy, I'm not like you. Mr. Bingley is charming, attentive, and Papa likes him.”

“Jane, I like Mr. Bingley as well. I just do not want you hurt. He is of a different society than we.”

“Lizzy please, do not worry,” she paused and smiled at her sister, “I know you mean well, and I do appreciate your concern. Trust me, I will heed your warning.”

Elizabeth immediately felt guilty, “Janey, I want you to be happy. That is all.”

After Jane kissed Elizabeth's cheek and bid her goodnight, Elizabeth blew out her candle and stared into the darkness, pondering again the amiable Mr. Bingley. He certainly was quite the gentleman, and his attentions to Jane were not of concern really. Her observations of his sisters earlier that evening told her they were not pleased with the match, though she was hardly surprised. Ladies of their station rarely looked on a country miss with a kind eye; she found that out while in London.

Settling down further into bed, she let her mind wander back to her first time in London and her presentation to the Queen. It was very exciting, and Her Majesty was very kind. But the Queen wasn't her fondest memory of that day; it was the kind officer that had recovered her mother's fan. The one with the dark blue eyes and smile that had visited her in her dreams for several weeks afterward. She had never seen him again, nor did she expect to. He was quite handsome, but likely out of her social scene and with a smile like that, was probably already spoken for!

With the prospect of Jane possibly being courted by Mr. Bingley soon, for who not want to court her beautiful sister, she wondered about her own future. She had certain ideas of what the man she would one day marry would be. She had no wish for a loveless marriage, but also doubted the kind of marriage her Aunt and Uncle enjoyed. They had married for love, regardless of their station in life. Some thought her Aunt had lowered herself to marry Edward Gardiner, being the daughter of a naval officer and having many suitors chasing after her fortune of ten thousand pounds. But her Aunt Gardiner did not feel that way, and that is how Elizabeth wished to feel, that no matter what, the one she would marry would be her perfect soul mate. With that hopeful though in her mind, she settled down into a restful slumber, with the vision of a handsome officer behind her eyes.

Chapter 2

November 18, 1811
Longbourn

“I expect a visitor today girls,” Mr. Bennet quietly told his daughters at breakfast that morning.

The three sisters looked up at their father with confused expressions that did little to hide their curiosity. He smiled at them and continued to finish his breakfast, a sly smile threatening to burst forth as out of the corner of his eye he saw his daughters waiting with anticipation.

“Papa! Who is it?” Jane asked excitedly. With the exception of the Gardiners, they rarely received visitors on such a short notice.

Mr. Bennet waved the pages of a letter he had received and put on his glasses. “About a month ago I received this letter; and about a fortnight ago I answered it, for I thought it a case of some delicacy, and requiring early attention. It is from my cousin, Mr. Collins.”

“Mr. Collins?” Elizabeth exclaimed, having heard that name all too often. “The entail….”

“Yes my love, the entail.” He answered. He then began to read the letter aloud.

“Hunsford, near Westerham, Kent,
15th October

Dear Sir-

The disagreement subsisting between yourself and my late honored father always gave me much uneasiness, and since I have had the misfortune to lose him, I have frequently wished to heal the breach.”

He looked up at his daughters with a skeptical eye and stopped there. Mr. Bennet had explained the entail to his daughters long ago, and the argument that existed between himself and his younger brother. They looked back at him with some confusion.

“Well?” he said. “Do you wish to hear more, or would you like to read it yourselves?”

Elizabeth reached out her hand for the letter and read the rest of the missive quickly, her brows lifting at the constant reverence paid to a Lady Catherine DeBourgh. She handed the letter to Jane and looked to her father.

“Can he be a sensible man, sir?”

“I think not my dear.”

Promptly at four o'clock that afternoon, he arrived, with all the formality and social graces one would expect in one serving an esteemed patroness. Mr. Collins saw fit to compliment the house and its entire furnishings, much to Elizabeth's shock and Jane's dismay. Here was a man who would someday inherit their house and he seemed to be cataloguing its contents on the day of his arrival!

How they made it through dinner, Elizabeth had no idea. And with Mr. Bennet being his quiet self, it was left for Jane and Elizabeth to make most of the conversation, Mary interjecting seldom. Mr. Collins seemed to pay a great deal of attention to Elizabeth, much to her displeasure. The last thing she wanted was to be on the receiving end of his flattery, false as it sounded. Regardless of what subject was mentioned, he always brought them back to his noble patroness. By the end of the evening, Elizabeth had heard everything she had ever wanted to know about Lady Catherine DeBourgh, had a pounding headache and begged to be excused, while being on the receiving end of glares from Jane and Mary as she left the drawing room.

November 20, 1811
Meryton

“Papa, we are going to walk into Meryton to find some lace for Jane's gown,” Elizabeth called while she and Jane were putting on their coats. Mr. Bennet and Mr. Collins had been in the library most of the morning and had only come out when she had summoned them for tea earlier.

“Lizzy, a moment please, Mr. Collins, perhaps you would like some exercise?” Mr. Bennet told him brightly. Jane and Elizabeth looked at each other with a degree of annoyance, but said nothing.

“That sounds splendid!” Mr. Collins replied happily. Elizabeth looked at her father with a slight frown and he smiled at her thankfully. She knew he had wanted to get the odious man out of his library so he could finally have some peace. They should have been annoyed at him, but they could not. After donning his outerwear, the three set out for Meryton.

While it was not far into Meryton, and the Bennet sisters walked the distance twice weekly, Mr. Collins, not being used to such exercise found he was quite tired midway through the trip. His desire to impress Miss Elizabeth was so great that he panted and heaved all the way, without asking to stop and rest. It was his pleasure to escort his fair cousins and he had made no secret of his admiration for Elizabeth in particular. As they entered the town, Elizabeth immediately directed Mr. Collins to a bench near the shop they wished to enter.

“Here Mr. Collins, rest here, we will be out shortly.” Mr. Collins gratefully thanked her and sank down on the bench, quite out of breath, and fanning himself with his hat despite the chilly temperature.

They left Mr. Collins outside in the swirl of the residents of Meryton and the redcoats of the militia and made their way into the shop, much to their relief. Jane, normally quiet on these affairs, could not help but comment on Mr. Collins.

“Lizzy, Mr. Collins pays you a great deal of attention.”

Elizabeth rolled her eyes at her sister, “but whatever for, what could be his meaning?”

Jane, knowing Elizabeth's views on love and marriage, chose her next words carefully. “Well, he is to inherit Longbourn…”

Elizabeth immediately put down the lace she was holding and turned to her sister, a horrified look on her face. “No, he can not mean….why I would never…oh no!”

“Lizzy, be calm. You know Papa would never make you marry him. But I do think that is what Mr. Collins intends.”

“But Jane, marry Mr. Collins? Who on earth would ever marry him?”

“Lizzy, you know very well that not everyone has your ideas on marriage. Do not assume that no one would ever marry him. He is an eligible gentleman.”

Elizabeth smiled at her ever-thoughtful sister with a teasing look in her eyes. “I believe you will not have choose between love and convenience Jane.”

Jane blushed at her meaning. “Hush, Lizzy, Mr. Bingley has said nothing of his intentions, as I have told you before.”

Elizabeth followed Jane as she went further back into the shop, still searching for the perfect bit of lace. “Jane, anyone who has seen you and him together would have no doubts. Mrs. Darcy said herself she believes him smitten with you...”

A commotion outside the shop interrupted Elizabeth's teasing, drawing their attention to the door. Jane quickly purchased her lace and they made their way back to the front of the shop to see what was going on. As they walked out into the sunshine, they saw immediately what the cause for commotion was. There, coming down the main road in Meryton, were an entire regiment of mounted officers and soldiers of the Army, decked out in their red coats, their swords glinting in the sunlight. The residents of Meryton had come out in droves to see the soldiers arrive, and were lining the streets. Jane, who had followed Elizabeth out the door, walked into her when she quickly stopped.

“Lizzy? Are they regulars, or more militia? I can never tell…”

Elizabeth stood frozen, not hearing Jane's question, as her breath was becoming shallow and the sound of the horse's hooves striking the stones of the road echoed in her ears. The wind was blowing and she should have been cold, but she was not. Jane, worried for her sister, placed a hand on her shoulder and followed her gaze, seeing a handsome officer riding the mount closest to them, leading the procession, along with three other officers. The officer in question was looking down at them, a smile playing on his face, mixed with shock. Something was familiar about him, she thought, but when she questioned her sister, she received no response.

Unbeknownst to her sister, Elizabeth had heard her sisters' question, but was unable to answer. Her gaze was fixed on an intense pair of blue eyes that were looking down at her, a silent question behind them. Her heart began to pound, much like that day at St. James court, and she knew why. Here riding through Meryton was the same officer that had retrieved her prized fan! The same one that watched as she left that day, and the same one that was now riding his horse in front of her. She noticed aside from his eyes that his hair was dark brown under his hat and he had a wide smile that was very pleasing, and it was being bestowed upon her at the moment.

Unknown to Elizabeth, the officer in question was thinking the same thoughts. He recognized her from St. James court, and from his dreams the weeks afterward. She was here! He thought to himself, she lives in Hertfordshire, and she is just as beautiful as she was in London! He wanted to dismount and approach her, but propriety forbid such an action. So, he just looked back at her penetrating gaze, with most likely a stupid grin on his face he thought. He only looked up when his Major called his name, bringing him out of his daze.

“Sir? Colonel Fitzwilliam?”

He jerked his head around and all but glared at his Major, who quickly pointed out the barracks of the militia. He nodded to him and turned his horse towards the inn, but not before glancing back and seeing her look at him with a slight smile.

***
“Lizzy,” Jane prodded, shaking her slightly. She was worried for her sister, who still had not spoken.

Elizabeth turned to her sister only after the officer was out of sight, a far away look in her eyes, “I am sorry Jane, what were you saying?”

Jane smiled at her sister and turned her towards the bench where Mr. Collins was waiting for them. “Lizzy, we shall talk later, but I must say I never thought a redcoat would catch your attention like that.”

Elizabeth smiled at her sister as they reached their cousin, her composure returning somewhat. “It was not the coat, Jane.” She replied weakly, not wishing to go any further as there were too many people milling about.

They quickly gathered Mr. Collins and began the trip back to Longbourn, Elizabeth being unusually quiet and Jane having to make the most of the conversation. Her mind was reeling. She had never expected to see him again, and now he was here in Hertfordshire. It was a foregone conclusion that she would finally make his acquaintance, and she shivered in anticipation. What if he was already promised to someone? Surely not! A gentleman would never stare at a lady in such a way if he was betrothed to another. When they returned to Longbourn, Mr. Collins immediately returned to the library with Mr. Bennet and Mary while Jane pulled Elizabeth into the drawing room. She sat her down on the settee and quickly took the chair nearest to her.

“Lizzy, now tell me, who was that gentleman? Are you at all acquainted with him?”

Elizabeth hesitated, for she was still light headed from the sensations she experienced from his gaze and the long walk back to Longbourn. “No Jane, I am not acquainted with him, not really.”

Jane was not happy with this answer, and kept pressing, “Lizzy, you are worrying me, for I have never seen you act that way! Tell me at once what is the matter!”

“Oh Jane!” Elizabeth cried, covering her face with her hands. “Do you remember at St. James court when I thought I had lost Mama's fan?” Jane nodded, remembering her sisters' frantic search. “He was the officer that returned it to me! I could not stop looking at him, and I was mortified at the time. When we were leaving, he was watching me. It made me feel…” Her voice trailed off, unable to think of the words to describe the way the she felt back then, as compared to the confusion she was feeling now.

“Admired?” Jane offered. She too remembered the handsome officer from the court and Elizabeth's reaction to him. When her sister blushed profusely, she grasped her hands. “Lizzy, you are very beautiful, as you well know. Not everyone man is like Lord Exeter.”

When Elizabeth didn't answer, Jane patted her hand and left her alone to consult with Cook over dinner. Elizabeth sat in the drawing room, staring off into space. He was here! In Meryton! She could tell from his uniform that he was an Army officer, although she didn't know what rank, not that it mattered. She fanned herself with her bonnet, which was still tightly grasped in her hand. Never had a gentleman had this effect on her, not even while she was still in London, and certainly no gentleman from Hertfordshire. She had never expected to see him again, but now that he was here, she knew not what she was going to do. How would their first meeting be, what would they speak of? Did he recognize her? Too many questions and not any immediate answers put her in a state of confusion to last the rest of the evening.

November 22, 1811
Netherfield

Georgiana and Anne were in the drawing room at Netherfield with their cousin Richard that afternoon when the butler came in to announce visitors.

“Mrs. Darcy, Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth to see you ma'am.”

“Lizzy!” Georgiana exclaimed as she jumped up from her chair and hurried past the butler and into the hallway where Jane and Elizabeth were waiting. Anne, laughing at Georgiana's excitement, and not bothering to scold her for the most unladylike action she had just exhibited, motioned for Richard to join her.

“Georgiana is quite fond of Elizabeth. They talk of music for hours with Elizabeth's sister Mary. They live at Longbourn, which is just three miles away. Georgiana was just saying earlier that we should call on them, but it looks as though we won't need to.” She smiled at her cousin as they rose and waited for Georgiana to bring Jane and Elizabeth into the room. Anne had wanted to introduce Elizabeth to Richard, just to see if her plan would work.

Richard was grateful for the chance to be alone with Anne, as he wanted to know if she knew the lady he had seen in town yesterday. “Anne, I was wondering…I saw a lady in town yesterday, I believe I saw her at St. James court one spring…” His voice died away when Georgiana came back in the room, Elizabeth and Jane in tow. The lady in question met his stare with shock, but with a small smile on her blushed face.

“Anne! Look who is here! We had just said this morning that we missed you and were going to call!”

Richard looked from Elizabeth to Jane, then back to Elizabeth again, not believing his luck. Elizabeth had stopped midway into the room with a shocked look on her face while Jane, her arm through Elizabeth's, attempted to pull her closer to their host. Georgiana, who was oblivious to the shocked look coming from her cousin and Elizabeth, quickly made introductions with a smile, “Richard, may I present to you Miss Bennet, and Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Jane, Lizzy, this is our cousin, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. He is here to help train the militia, and thankfully is not back in Spain!”

How Elizabeth managed to curtsey gracefully, she knew not, for it was a wonder that she had remembered to breathe. “It is a pleasure to meet you Colonel.” She heard her sister say from some far away place. Jane gently pinched Elizabeth's arm, which had the desired reaction.

“It is a pleasure to meet you.” Elizabeth replied softly while trying to calm her shaking hands behind her back. Colonel Fitzwilliam bowed to them, looking up at Elizabeth with a soft smile and a twinkle in his eye.

“The pleasure is mine, I assure you.” He said in a rich voice that made Elizabeth hold on to Jane's arm a little tighter. Colonel Fitzwilliam gazed at her much like the day before, and Elizabeth could do nothing but return his gaze with astonishment.

Anne, becoming amused at the interaction between her cousin and Elizabeth, quickly invited them to sit and rang for tea. She was no fool; she saw the look on her cousin's face when Elizabeth walked into the room. Her plan, it seemed, had some merit. “So Jane, Elizabeth, are you quite ready for the ball?”

Jane smiled at Anne while Elizabeth just merely looked at her blankly. Jane sighed at her sisters' unusual behavior and answered for them. “Yes we are. We were just in town yesterday to pick up a bit of lace.”

Elizabeth snapped out of her daze finally, remembering her manners. “Anne, are Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst out this afternoon?”

“They have traveled back to London for a day or so, they will return before the ball.” Anne answered while rolling her eyes.

Elizabeth nodded with a knowing smile, while still trying not to look at the Colonel. She failed miserably, as her gaze kept drifting back to him as he sat next to Georgiana. An awkward silence settled over the party as Elizabeth tried to look anywhere but the Colonel and the Colonel kept his eyes on Elizabeth.

“So Colonel, are you pleased with Meryton?” Jane asked finally, realizing Colonel Fitzwilliam was the officer from yesterday afternoon that Elizabeth was shocked to see. She knew if there was to be any conversation; it would not be lead by the usually talkative Elizabeth.

Colonel Fitzwilliam quickly turned his gaze to the other Bennet in the room and smiled. “Yes Miss Bennet, we are most pleased. You have excellent meadows for training.”

Jane nodded as Anne poured them all tea, not really knowing what to say next. Anne handed a cup to Elizabeth, though she was doubtful she could hold it without spilling its contents. She watched as Elizabeth carefully took the cup and rested it on her lap, her hands slightly shaking.

Georgiana had sat down next to Elizabeth, still oblivious to her discomfort, with a stack of sheet music on her lap. “Lizzy, I think I found the perfect duet for us, but it won't work unless you sing. I cannot.”

Elizabeth, who had finally found her composure, tore her gaze away from the Colonel, and turned to Georgiana. “Oh, of course you can! You have a beautiful voice!”

“Not like yours Lizzy.”

“When is this concert to take place?” Colonel Fitzwilliam inquired warmly, causing Elizabeth to blush and Georgiana to giggle. He desperately wanted to attend.

“Oh, we don't know, do we now Lizzy? Before we leave for London I suppose.”

Elizabeth nodded and looked up at the Colonel, who as smiling at her again. Georgiana rose from her seat and pulled Elizabeth over to the pianoforte. “Here Lizzy, this is the one.”

She sat down at the instrument and Georgiana settle in next to her, beaming with happiness and excitement. Colonel Fitzwilliam, his view now blocked by Georgiana, rose from his seat and came to stand behind them. The soft jingle of the spurs on his boots jerked Elizabeth out of her daze as she realized the Colonel had come to stand by them. Having him stand so near made Elizabeth quite nervous as Georgiana flipped through the sheet music to find the piece.

“There, what do you think Lizzy?”

Elizabeth gulped and looked up at the music. It was difficult, something that would take a while for her to master. “Well…”

“Oh I know it looks hard, but I tried it earlier and it's not too bad. Go ahead and try it and Richard can be our judge.” She whirled around to face her cousin, “you'll tell us if you like it, right Richard?”

“Of course,” he said quietly, sending a chill down Elizabeth's spine. She closed her eyes as he sat in the chair on her side of the pianoforte, trying to slow her breathing. He was against the wall, so it wasn't as if he was close, but his presence still unnerved her like no one ever had before. She tentatively played the first few notes of the piece, and realizing it wasn't all that difficult, began to play.

Anne and Jane looked on from their positions on the settee with amusement. While the trio was busy at the pianoforte, Jane related the events of the day before to Anne, who laughed softly. Anne told Jane of her idea, to which Jane immediately agreed, and they made plans to question their respective relations when their visit was through.

Richard meanwhile, was mesmerized. Here before him sat the object of his dreams for so many weeks. He had never completely forgotten about her, but the dreams were quickly replaced with nightmares from being in battle. As he watched her play, he began to notice how talented she actually was, playing effortlessly, but with feeling. Her lips were slightly open in concentration and he watched as her eyes scanned the music. She was doing something to him that no women had ever done before, and that worried him tremendously. He had no room in his life for romance, let alone a marriage! But with her being so near, that's all he was thinking about.

Elizabeth had reached the end of the page, much to her relief and stopped playing. She had doubted she would be able to play with the Colonel being so near.

“Well Lizzy, what do you think? I have more if you don't like this one.” Georgiana told her.

“No, Georgiana, this is fine.” Elizabeth looked up to see Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley come into the room. She smiled at the gentleman as she rose from her seat, grateful for a chance to put some distance between herself and the Colonel.

“Miss Elizabeth! That was wonderful! Is this the famed duet I've heard Georgiana speak of?” Mr. Bingley asked as Elizabeth sat down across from him.

“Yes it was, but only a part of it. It will take me much longer than Georgiana to master the piece.”

“Oh Lizzy, you are very accomplished at the pianoforte, as you well know!” Jane teased her.

“And singing, I've heard.” Anne said with a smile.

Elizabeth blushed at the compliment, “thank you Anne.” She turned back to see Georgiana sitting in the seat she had vacated, the Colonel turning the pages for her as she played.

“So Miss Elizabeth, have you finished your book?” Mr. Darcy asked her with a smile. He had lent her a book of Pope's works a few weeks ago, with the promise they would discuss it in time. At this questioning, Colonel Fitzwilliam lifted his head so that he may hear her answer, he wanted to know as much about her as possible, including her author preferences.

“Not yet I'm afraid. Our cousin, Mr. Collins is visiting at the moment. He comes from Kent.”

“Mr. Collins?” Anne asked. “Mr. William Collins?”

Jane nodded and Elizabeth wondered how Anne could know their odious cousin. “Why, I believe he is Mama's clergyman!”

Elizabeth, shocked and embarrassed at the same time, sunk back in her chair. “From Kent?”

“Why yes! He is your cousin?” Anne asked politely. Elizabeth nodded and looked down at the floor.

Mr. Bingley, who had been quietly conversing with Jane in a corner, raised his head at the mention of this man. “I have included him in your invitation to the ball Miss Elizabeth.”

“Thank you Mr. Bingley. I am sure he was most pleased.” Elizabeth said flatly.

Anne stifled a laugh at Elizabeth's dry remark. “Oh Lizzy, do not fret. We all have some relation that we are ashamed of, isn't that right William?”

Mr. Darcy nodded, but did not answer. Being a private man, he had no wish to air their family history, although he could think of no one who would fit that assessment immediately.

Elizabeth went on, “I'm sure he means well, at least Jane thinks he does. He's just so odd.”

“Lizzy!” Jane scolded. “Mr. Collins is very gentlemanly, he is just…”

“Odd.” Anne finished for her, making Elizabeth laugh and Jane frown.

Colonel Fitzwilliam watched this exchange with amusement. He was quickly becoming enraptured with Elizabeth's sparkling wit and personality. Her laugh was musical and made his stomach do flips as he listened to her. It was a dangerous combination, he thought, one that made her all the more appealing. Listening to her more, he found he wanted to know everything about her. This was not good, he thought to himself, if only he had met her the year before.

Jane rose from her seat with a slight frown and looked to her sister apologetically. “Lizzy, we had best be going. I promised Papa we would return in time to receive Aunt Phillips.”

Colonel Fitzwilliam stood from his chair as well, “I must be going too, or the regiment will come looking for me.”

Everyone rose from his or her seats and Mr. Bingley offered his arm to Jane to lead them to the hall. Anne slid her arm through Elizabeth's and walked with her to the doorway and out into the hall. Turning to see that Richard was nowhere near, she leaned her head towards Elizabeth'.

“Lizzy, are you alright? You seem a little out of spirits.”

Elizabeth sighed, “I am well Anne, thank you.” She had no wish to tell Anne of her encounter with her cousin, especially now that she knew he was her cousin.

“He is handsome Lizzy, and you are not the first lady to think so.” Elizabeth blushed fiercely, which caused Anne to laugh aloud. “Oh Lizzy, do not fear!”

The stopped in the hallway to gather their coats as Mr. Bingley insisted they take his carriage home. Jane began to protest, but Mr. Darcy stopped her.

“Please take the carriage ladies, there have been some men passing through town that cannot be trusted.”

Elizabeth nodded while she tied her bonnet and Jane stared back at Mr. Darcy in fear. “Here in Hertfordshire? We must be more careful! Lizzy, no more walks before breakfast!”

Colonel Fitzwilliam fastened his cloak around his shoulders and slapped Darcy on the back. “Darce, you shouldn't try to frighten these ladies. But just to be safe, I will ride along side the carriage until they reach their home, for it is on the way to the practice field.” And it gives me an opportunity to see where she lives, so I may visit….often.

Elizabeth looked at him and smiled, touched as has concern, “thank you Colonel, but you mustn't go out of your way.” She knew it was technically on his way, but she ignored this.

“Tis no bother Miss Elizabeth. I would be honored to escort you and Miss Bennet home.” He would be delighted to escort them anywhere, but would rather ride inside the carriage to acquaint himself with Miss Elizabeth better. For now though he would ride along side.

Jane smiled at his politeness as they turned to walk outside. The weather had turned much cooler than when they arrived and Elizabeth shivered slightly. Although she wasn't sure if that shiver was from the cold or the thought of the Colonel riding along side the carriage.

“Jane, Elizabeth, we will see you at the ball.” Anne told them as she kissed their cheeks.

“Yes, tell your father I shall call upon him tomorrow.” Mr. Bingley said as he handed them both into the carriage, his hand lingering on Jane's slightly, causing a pretty blush to come over her face.

Elizabeth nodded as she watched the Colonel mount his horse and come along side them. The carriage crept forward and Elizabeth leaned back in the seat with a moan.

“Lizzy, are you alright?” Jane asked turning her with concern.

Elizabeth looked out the window to see Colonel Fitzwilliam keeping pace with the door of the carriage. She let out a long sigh. “Oh Jane! I don't know what to do! It is him, just as I remember.”

Jane hid her smile behind her bonnet. “Well Lizzy, he seems very nice. Anne says that he is to be in Hertfordshire for at least the winter before he is to return to London. She also thinks he was meaning to ask about you, our arrival stopped him.”

Elizabeth said nothing and stared at the seat across from her. It would not do to keep watching him ride along side, although it was what she wanted to do. They arrived at Longbourn a few minutes later, much to Elizabeth's relief. She looked at Jane with a happy expression on her face as the carriage stopped, glad to be home, when the door opened and Colonel Fitzwilliam appeared.

“Well ladies, here you are.” He said to them with a smile. He carefully handed them both out of the carriage, his hand unconsciously lingering slightly on Elizabeth's, as Mr. Bennet came outside. Elizabeth noticed this, but averted her eyes shyly, not wanting him to see the blush that was creeping across her face because of his nearness.

“Well Jane, Lizzy, I hope you've not gotten into trouble, what with an officer escorting you home. I don't believe I've had the pleasure sir.”

Colonel Fitzwilliam quickly introduced himself and shook Mr. Bennet's hand. “The militia has said something about some highwaymen around these parts. I happened to be at Netherfield and offered to escort your daughters home.”

Mr. Bennet nodded as he offered his arm to both of his daughters. “Netherfield! You must be Mr. Darcy's cousin then. Well then Colonel, you have my thanks. May I offer you a drink before you leave?”

Colonel Fitzwilliam looked at Elizabeth, who was looking at something interesting on the ground, a slight smile playing on her full lips. “Another time perhaps, I must be getting back. It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance sir, and yours as well Miss Bennet…” He then looked at Elizabeth pointedly. “Miss Elizabeth.”

They watched as he mounted his horse, and with a wave and a smile he rode down the lane. Mr. Bennet escorted them back inside the house where Mr. Collins greeted them warmly, expressing his happiness of their return profusely.

“Well then, I'm afraid your Aunt Phillips won't be joining us this evening, as she is unwell.” Mr. Bennet told them they walked into the parlour.

Jane and Elizabeth immediately became concerned, but Mr. Bennet reassured them it was just a headache. Jane wanted to speak with Elizabeth privately but Mr. Collins commandeered her to walk in the garden, so she walked with them, heeding Elizabeth's plea the day before to never leave them alone.

***
Colonel Fitzwilliam rode the few miles to the practice field with a smile on his face, not feeling the cold wind biting at his face. He felt as if he could fly! She was here, and he had been introduced to her! The happiness that washed over him was a new feeling, as he had never felt this way towards anyone before. Although he had not come to Hertfordshire with the intent of having designs on any lady, he knew it would be difficult now that he had been introduced to her. Miss Elizabeth Bennet, he thought to himself as he rode along. What a beautiful name!

Chapter 3, Part I

November 26, 1811
Netherfield Ball

Elizabeth frowned at her reflection in the glass for second time that evening, still displeased with the reflection. Sara was doing her best to style her hair most becomingly, but everything she tried did not seem to suit her. After the fourth attempt, Jane came in and waved Sara aside, taking the brush from her and helping with Elizabeth's hair.

“Lizzy, whatever is the matter? This is most unlike you!”

Elizabeth looked at her sisters' reflection in the mirror and sighed. She looked perfect as always, why could she not look perfect? Why did she want to? Would he even be there? Would it matter if he was?

“Lizzy, if you are wondering, the Colonel will be at the ball this evening; Anne told me when we called the last time.” Jane told her, seemingly reading her mind.

“Sara, will you excuse us for a moment?” Elizabeth asked the maid. She trusted the girl, but did not want to take any chances with rumors getting started by servants. Sara nodded and left the room. As soon as she shut the door, Elizabeth whirled around to face Jane. They had not had the opportunity to really talk in private since they met the Colonel, as Mr. Collins had commandeered most of her time, and their late night talks had centered on Mr. Bingley. Elizabeth desperately needed someone to confide in before she saw him again. He had called once with Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley and Anne, and she had barely spoken a word.

“Jane, what am I to do? When he is near I seem to not be able to speak and when I do, it comes out wrong,” she exclaimed to Jane, the distress evident in her voice. It was not like her to be so nervous around a gentleman, but she could not seem to string together a sentence when he was near.

Jane smiled at her sister and began to pin up her long brown curls. “Lizzy, I was like that when Mr. Bingley started paying attentions to me, but I quickly realized that I could speak to him rationally thoughtfully after the first several attempts. No one would argue that Colonel Fitzwilliam is quite handsome, with or without the uniform, so it is natural for him to have this effect on you. I am concerned though that it is the uniform that you are reacting to, and not the man underneath.”

Elizabeth shook her head forcefully, “no Jane, it is his eyes, they are quite intense and seem to pierce through me. The way he looks at me…” she blushed instantly then continued, “and I find him very pleasing and most diverting. I dreamt about him for weeks after we were presented. And, you should know I am not one to swoon over a redcoat.”

“I thought not Lizzy, but I wanted to be sure. You have not the chance to converse with him since we were introduced, and this evening may be your opportunity. Who knows, maybe he is your perfect match.”

“Papa would never allow it Jane, you know that.” Elizabeth told her sadly, knowing her father tolerated the military only slightly. She had heard on more than one occasion her father's disdain for the military. While her father had not said anything demeaning against the regiment or the Colonel, she knew is general dislike was strong.

“Do not be so sure Lizzy, I heard him speak very highly of the Colonel this morning.”

Elizabeth, still not convinced, sat in silence as she watched Jane put her hair in an array of curls, flowers and ribbons. After her experience with Lord Exeter, and other gentlemen of the ton, a wall had come up around her heart of her own doing. It could not be helped, as it was the only way to protect herself. Events like the ball were a trial for her sometimes, so she hid her feelings as best she could. But, she was determined to have fun at the ball this evening, regardless of who would be there. Colonel Fitzwilliam may have this kind of affect on her, but she would not let it show to anyone. A sudden wave of sadness washed over her as she watched Jane put the finishing touches on her hair. Would she ever be able to trust anyone again?

***
Jane and Elizabeth both had taken special pains in their dress and knew they had succeeded when their father complimented them upon handing them into the carriage. Mr. Collins, of course was profuse with his compliments, to point of being vulgar. The party rode along in relative silence to Netherfield, with the exception of Mr. Collins, whose love of dancing was reiterated several times over. In the silence that ensued, Jane was anticipating opening the ball with her Mr. Bingley, Mary was looking forward to an evening spent at the pianoforte with Georgiana, and Elizabeth was telling herself to push aside her doubts and have an enjoyable evening. She supposed it could be worse, for she had agreed to the first two with her odious cousin, and while that was punishment itself, she was glad that Jane had also agreed to dances, for she would have found herself stuck with him all evening.

As their carriage rolled to a stop in front of Netherfield, Elizabeth looked up as her father handed her out of the carriage to see Mr. Darcy standing at the window, Anne by his side. Anne waved from her position and then disappeared, presumably to greet them upon their entrance Elizabeth thought. They left their wraps at the door and moved into the receiving line to greet their hosts. They were greeted only civilly by Miss Bingley and the Hursts, but very warmly by Mr. Bingley. As Mr. Collins congratulated Miss Bingley on her most elegant arrangements, Mr. Bennet took Mary's arm to lead her to the drawing room where Georgiana was awaiting her, and Elizabeth and Jane gratefully accepted an arm from Mr. Bingley to be escorted into the ballroom.

What their party did not notice as they entered Netherfield earlier was that Colonel Fitzwilliam was standing at another window watching their entrance from the second floor, an unfamiliar feeling of nervousness coming over him and a multitude of thoughts and feelings running through his mind. He did not miss the natural, graceful way that Elizabeth carried herself up the steps and into the house, a small smile playing on her lips as she conversed with her sister. Despite trying hard not to, he was enchanted by her, and it scared him a little. While he was not inexperienced with the female species, this certain lady had an effect on him that no other ever had. She was beautiful and well-spoken when he heard her speaking with Anne or Georgiana, he could listen to her play the pianoforte for hours on end, and every time he saw her smile his heart became more hers little by little. In all his years he had been fending off the heiresses his mother had thrown at him, resisting every attempt she made, but Elizabeth was different. His life as an officer left little room for anything else, and he wondered if maybe he should fight the overwhelming attraction he felt for her, but he knew that was a fruitless idea. It would be very painful for him if he had to leave her behind one day to go fight in a far off country, which would not be out of the question in his profession. Anne had taken him aside earlier and asked him his feelings on Elizabeth and he could not answer her, all he could do was shake his head, not sure of his feelings himself. To Anne, that was confirmation. So now he stood on the second floor with Georgiana, stalling until he would be missed downstairs, something that was most out of character for him, and listening to his cousin, who was begging him to dance with her at least once tonight.

“But Richard, I so want to dance, and William will not let me!”

Richard squeezed her hand and smiled, remembering the little girl who he used to dance with at Pemberley. “I will dance with you Georgie, but later.”

He began to walk away from her when she replied softly, “after you dance with Elizabeth?”

Turing back around slowly, he saw her teasing smile. “What makes you think that?”

“Because, I am not blind, nor am I a child Richard. I see the way you look at her, and I see the way she looks at you.”

He sighed and leaned up against the wall. There was no getting out of this one. “I hardly know her Georgie, and she hardly knows me. She might refuse me.”

“La, Elizabeth would never refuse you, and I suggest you take the opportunity this evening to become better acquainted,” Anne said from the doorway beside him. Neither cousin had seen her entrance or her amusement at the nervousness being exhibited by the Colonel.

“Anne, you know that I will go back to Spain eventually. How am I to court someone?” he replied, irritated with himself for his weakness towards Miss Elizabeth and at Anne's interference, though if he had to admit it the interference would be welcome if it helped his suit. Anne smiled teasingly at her cousin and quickly placed a hand on his arm to calm her normally collected cousin.

“Richard, I will not bore you with the reasons against you being in the Army, but I will not keep quiet on this subject. And who said anything about courting her? I simply suggested becoming better acquainted with her.”

He put his hand over hers and smiled down at her, knowing he was caught in her trap. “It is not an easy subject for me Anne. I cannot seem to think while I am around her, and it scares me. I hardly know her, and yet I find myself thinking of her constantly. What does that mean, and furthermore, what have I to give her?”

Anne sighed and shook her head. “Richard, one day when you are finished being the brave soldier, what do you plan to do? I have been worried about your happiness for so long, especially after Lady Pennington…”

A glare from him silenced her, and she changed the subject abruptly, “do you not want a family of your own someday? I know you shy away from talk such as this, but I worry for you. I only want your happiness.”

Richard stared down the stairway as more and more guests arrived, knowing they should go back down, “I do want that someday, for the example you and William set is quite endearing. But how? My life belongs to the Army and I have no time for such a relationship. Miss Elizabeth is everything I dreamed she would be, and more, but how can I ask her to leave all she has known to become a soldier's wife? And furthermore…”

Knowing this discussion should wait for another time, Anne stretched up and kissed his cheek, interrupting his tirade. “Come then, let us go back to the ballroom. We will not speak of this now. Besides, you had better ask for a dance quickly, for you are not the only man in Hertfordshire that admires Lizzy.”

***
Elizabeth thought the great hall was decorated most beautifully, alive with colorful ball gowns, the redcoats of the soldiers and the black of the gentleman's evening dress. She gazed up at the painted ceiling with a dreamy gaze, very happy to be attending. With a bright smile she walked with Jane and Mr. Bingley as he led them over to where Mr. Darcy was standing.

“Jane, Lizzy, you look beautiful!” Anne exclaimed coming up behind them, and kissing them both on the cheek in greeting.

Elizabeth greeted her friend with a warm smile, “as do you. But where is Georgiana?”

Anne looked to her husband for the answer with a frown, “Georgiana will be sitting with your sister and Mariah Lucas this evening. I have already arranged it with your father. At the moment she is with Fitzwilliam trying to convince him to dance with her one time. He is her other guardian and the fun one evidently.”

“Oh, William! Do not speak so, for Richard is just as devoted to Georgiana's well-being as you are. He is not as, well, serious as you are my dear. And besides, he has agreed to dance with her once, in the drawing room, not here.”

It was hard for Elizabeth not to laugh at the wounded look on Mr. Darcy's face, and she wasn't the only one. Soon Anne found it impossible and the whole group was laughing including Mr. Darcy. Their laughter soon died as Mr. Collins joined them, practically begging Elizabeth for an introduction.

Appalled at this gentleman's lack of manners, Mr. Darcy made his acquaintance with cold civility. Anne was a little friendlier than her husband, and of course Mr. Bingley was quite amiable. Mr. Collins made the connection and could not believe his good fortune of making an acquaintance with his esteemed patroness's family and had begun his laments on the health of his noble patroness but stopped when Colonel Fitzwilliam joined them. After more introductions, made by Jane, he began lamentations again. The Colonel took this opportunity to speak to Elizabeth.

“Miss Elizabeth, may I be so bold as to secure the first two dances with you?”

Elizabeth's heart sank, and she cursed the day she agreed to dance with her cousin. She smiled apologetically towards him, “I am truly sorry Colonel, but Mr. Collins has asked for the first two,” she paused as his face fell, and quickly added, “as for the rest, they are open.”

“The next two then?”

She happily obliged, accepting him with a steadiness that surprised even herself. After filling up her card with requests from Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley, some other local gentleman, and a refusal to Mr. Collins when he asked for third, Elizabeth sat quietly with Anne, waiting for the ball to begin while Jane let Mr. Bingley lead her around the room, making conversation with his guests.

Anne sat next to her friend and watched as she folded her hands in her lap over and over again, clearly agitated. She knew the attentions Mr. Collins made Elizabeth uncomfortable, but she wondered if the man had made his intentions clear. “Elizabeth, may I ask you a question?”

Elizabeth nodded her acceptance, and Anne continued, “what are Mr. Collins intentions?”

Elizabeth sighed and closed her eyes, “oh Anne, I am truly afraid of what his intentions may be.”

Anne nodded, her fears confirmed, “will you accept him?”

Elizabeth looked at her in horror, “no,” she said firmly, “I shall never marry for anything but the deepest love. And if I am unable to find that, then I shall end an old maid!”

Before Anne could answer, the sounds of the first dance could be heard, and Elizabeth saw Mr. Collins heading her way. “I do so wish the first two could have been with Colonel Fitzwilliam.” Elizabeth said with a sigh.

“Indeed,” Anne said to her quietly, holding back the rest of her thoughts. She watched as Mr. Collins led Elizabeth away, and smiled at her husband as he came to claim his wife.

“Anne, what is the matter my dear?” Mr. Darcy asked as they moved through the first turns of the dance. She was silent, her mind fixed on Elizabeth's expression while dancing with Mr. Collins. Elizabeth was polite, but looked mortified, especially when Mr. Collins took a wrong turn. Anne then turned her gaze to her cousin, who was smiling at his partner in his good-natured way.

“Anne?”

She looked up at her handsome husband, who was looking down at her curiously.

“Later my dear, I shall tell you later,” She looked pointedly at Elizabeth and he understood. They completed their dance, and then moved onto the next one, everyone keeping their same partner. Anne noticed with concern the way Mr. Collins looked at Elizabeth, but in the same token, Elizabeth looked quite annoyed. The second dance ended, and she watched as Elizabeth took her cousin to meet Charlotte. Anne let her husband lead her to a chair, all the time watching Elizabeth stand between Mr. Collins and Charlotte. She looked truly happy to be speaking with her friend, but absolutely horrified at the behavior of her cousin. Anne felt pity for Elizabeth, to be the subject of admiration of such a man! What she must be suffering! Keeping an eye on Elizabeth, she saw out of the corner of her eye that her cousin was making his way through the crowd towards Elizabeth, undoubtedly to claim his set. She couldn't have planned the timing better herself.

Elizabeth, who saw the Colonel as well, immediately began to devise a plan to get away from Mr. Collins, who was holding onto her arm most tightly. If he would only let go of her arm! Suddenly, an idea struck her.

“Charlotte,” she began, still keeping an eye on the Colonel coming her way, “and who has claimed your hand for the next two dances?”

Charlotte, knowing Elizabeth wanted out of her cousin's company as quickly as possible, shook her head “why no one Lizzy, for Christopher is dancing with Miss Long.”

“Oh, so Mr. Lucas is dancing with Miss Long then,” she replied leadingly, looking pointedly at Mr. Collins.

“Oh, Miss Lucas! Would you do me the honor of dancing the next with me?” Mr. Collins exclaimed dramatically.

Colonel Fitzwilliam, who had arrived to claim Elizabeth for their dance, was amused by this exchange immensely. He had noticed the clergyman's attentions to Elizabeth with dismay, as the man was exceedingly vulgar. He appeared at Elizabeth's side just in time to hear the answer.

“Why of course Mr. Collins, I would honored.”

“How wonderful!” Elizabeth replied brightly, trying to hide the look of relief that crossed over her face.

Mr. Collins, who found Miss Lucas quite charming, although nothing compared to his fair cousin Elizabeth, bowed gracefully. Elizabeth smiled a grateful smile at her dear friend, whose look told her she was in her debt. As Mr. Collins led Charlotte away, Colonel Fitzwilliam turned to her with a smile as she sighed in relief.

“Your cousin seems very…gracious.”

“Indeed. He is the epitome of courtesy and politeness.” Her dry remark made the Colonel laugh heartily and he extended his hand. “Shall we?”

She took his offered hand and allowed him to lead her to where the other couples were preparing for the next dance, her heart beating wildly inside her chest. Would she ever feel calm around him? Colonel Fitzwilliam led her to the edge of the floor and holding on her to hand a little longer than necessary, turned to face her, a friendly expression on his face.

“So, Miss Elizabeth, how are enjoying Mr. Bingley's grand ball?”

She still felt his fingers on hers, even though his hand had dropped to his side, and her heart began to pound feverishly again, as it seemed to do whenever he spoke to her. As she turned to face him, she noticed over his shoulder that Anne was watching them with interest. “I am enjoying it immensely Colonel. And you?”

He gazed down at her, his blue eyes piercing through hers with such an intensity she thought she might faint, and a slight smile playing on his lips. It was a moment before he answered, as he was more agreeably engaged with looking into her eyes. “I am as well Miss Elizabeth.”

The spell was broken when the first notes of the dance began to play. The Colonel quickly held out his hand and led her to their place in line as the dance began.

***
“So Colonel, how do you find Meryton? Are the meadows still to your liking?” Elizabeth asked as he led her to one of the many seats surrounding the floor.

His thoughts quickly turned towards how he was immensely overjoyed to be in her presence, the meadows holding no interest to him at the moment, and he nearly choked on his drink. “I find it pleasing Miss Elizabeth, quite pleasing.” She blushed slightly at this comment, as he was looking intently at her again.

A sudden thought came to him, out of the recesses of his mind, and he decided to act on his impulse. “You know, I remember you,” he stated softly, his eyes searching her face, “from St. James Court.

“You do?” She replied, her voice quivering with nervousness. How was she to tell him she remembered him as well? And that she thought of him for weeks afterwards.

“Yes, I do, I never completely forgot about you, and looked for you at several balls afterwards, but I never saw you again.”

“Oh,” Elizabeth said, blushing profusely, and saddened that she never met him after her presentation. She could not tell him why he never saw her, for her father had forbidden her to speak of her incident with Lord Exeter to anyone, and indeed she did not wish him to know. But it made her happy that he had thought about her, as she had him. “I was not in London long after my presentation.”

He nodded, “neither was I, as my regiment was sent to Spain but a month later.”

This comment made Elizabeth's curiosity pique, for she longed to hear what it was like on the peninsula. She had read so many newspaper stories about the war, but had never actually met anyone who was there, and changed the subject swiftly. “Anne told me of you being on the Peninsula a few years ago.”

He nodded silently, wishing he had not brought up Spain and wanting to speak of anything but his time on that blasted Peninsula. Unfortunately, she wished to hear more.

“What was it like?” She asked tentatively, hoping he didn't think her impertinent. Her heightened curiosity was getting the better of her.

“Come now, you would not wish to hear about war Miss Elizabeth. I should think a lady of your character would like to speak of happier times.” This came out a little harsher than he intended, and he cringed at his own words, hoping they had not been taken in such a way.

She instantly turned red and fidgeted with her punch cup, feeling quite mortified at her question. “I apologize Colonel Fitzwilliam, it was not my intention to make you uncomfortable,” she said quietly, turning away from him. She felt horrible for asking such an insensitive question, and hoped she had not ruined any chance of friendship they might have had.

He looked at her with alarm, “Miss Elizabeth, please, you do not displease me. I seldom talk of my time on the Peninsula around ladies, mostly because they do not wish to hear of it.” He paused here thoughtfully, “do you really wish to hear of it?”

She smiled at up at, her eyes shinning with a glimmer of tears, but also betraying her interest. “I confess I do Colonel, if you are willing to talk. While my sisters do not take much interest in government affairs and the war, I find myself reading my father's papers after he had finished with them!”

He smiled at the thought of her sneaking into the library at Longbourn and curling up in the window, reading the paper. He then proceeded to tell her of his time in battle, leaving out the horrible details that even he wished to forget. She became alarmed when he told her of his injury and subsequent treatment.

“Why, it's a wonder you've completely healed!” She exclaimed, horrified that he had suffered an injury.

He nodded, but waved off her concern, “I am well, and no longer have any ill effects from my injury. There are others that fared far worse than myself I am afraid.”

Elizabeth was silent, as she could not truly imagine what it was like. Her thoughts were interrupted though when Christopher Lucas came to claim his dance with her. She rose from her seat and turned to see the Colonel looking up at her.

“Thank you Colonel Fitzwilliam…” Her voice faltered a bit when she looked down into his eyes that were unreadable. “Thank you for the lovely conversation.” She turned and let Mr. Lucas lead her out to the next dance.

He watched her leave, a seldom experienced feeling of jealousy welling up inside him. Elizabeth Bennet had made a definite impression on him, and if he didn't leave the room right then, he would have been tempted to knock Christopher Lucas out of the way and dance with her again, regardless of how much of a gentleman he may be. So, he left his seat to find Georgie, and claim his dance with her in the drawing room.

Elizabeth, though making pleasant conversation with Mr. Lucas, watched the Colonel abruptly leave with some concern. She hadn't wished to upset him by bringing up memories of his duties, and now she felt quite upset that she had spoken so impertinently.

“Miss Elizabeth, I am going to check on my sister after the dance, would you like to accompany me to check on Miss Mary?”

She nodded at him with a smile, agreeing to his plan. Christopher Lucas was a handsome gentleman that she had known all her life, and while they had agreed long ago to never be more than friends, she could see sometimes that he wished for more from her. He had been the driving force behind her talent of the pianoforte, being quite talented himself. She had studied under his tutelage for years, and it showed well in her performance. The dance ended after a half an hour and she took his offered arm and walked with him outside the great hall to the drawing room where her Aunt Phillips was chaperoning her sister Mary, Mariah Lucas, and Georgiana Darcy. The sounds of a reel could be heard coming from the room, and Elizabeth and Mr. Lucas looked at each other with some confusion. The door was open slightly, and when Elizabeth opened it fully, what she saw made her smile most happily.

Knowing Georgiana was quite saddened not to be able to dance at the ball, she was not at all surprised when she saw Colonel Fitzwilliam dancing a reel with her, Mary playing the pianoforte with Mariah turning the pages, and her Aunt Phillips clapping along from her seat. When the dance was over, Georgiana curtsied most gracefully to her cousin and he bowed with the flourish befitting an Army officer fully dressed in splendid regimentals. The spectators clapped and Georgiana immediately became embarrassed when she saw Elizabeth and Mr. Lucas standing in the doorway. Mariah immediately spotted her older brother and ran over to him, begging him to dance with her.

Elizabeth watched as Georgiana, having extracted another dance from her cousin, rushed over to the pianoforte to help Mary find music. Colonel Fitzwilliam, who had not seen Elizabeth, turned to speak to Mrs. Phillips when Mariah exclaimed rather loudly. “Lizzy, will you turn the pages for Mary? I cannot if I am dancing!”

The Colonel then turned to see Elizabeth smiling from the doorway, and he was quite happy that she had joined them, despite the presence of Mr. Lucas. “Yes Mariah, I shall, but Mary, do you not wish to dance? I'm sure we could persuade Master John to come in, couldn't we Mr. Lucas?”

“Oh Lizzy, could we? I mean, if he would accept, and if it would not be a bother.” Mary fumbled for the proper words with an embarrassed smile.

“I shall go fetch him,” Mr. Lucas announced. He left the room only to return immediately with John Lucas and Mr. Darcy, who were both coming to check on their sisters.

“See, I've found two more gentlemen!” Mr. Lucas exclaimed as he entered the room.

“Ah Fitzwilliam, I see my sister has her wish to dance,” Mr. Darcy said, seeing Colonel Fitzwilliam sitting across from Mrs. Phillips.

“Yes Darce, it seems I cannot deny her anything!” The Colonel exclaimed, “but now that you are here, I'm sure dear Georgiana would rather dance with you.”

“Oh, William! Could we? We haven't danced together since the harvest ball at Pemberley two years ago! That is, if Richard doesn't mind,” she added with an embarrassed smile.

Colonel Fitzwilliam, seeing his cousin's resolve faltering, as it always did when it came to his sister, rose from his seat and began to move towards the pianoforte. “Do not worry my dear; I shall turn the pages for Miss Elizabeth, if she will have me.”

Elizabeth looked up from her seat at the pianoforte and smiled, her heart pounding wildly, again. “I would be delighted Colonel.”

“There you see, it's all set then. But, I fear we may have to move some of Bingley's furniture to make enough room!” Colonel Fitzwilliam added with a grin. He, Mr. Darcy, Mr. Lucas, and Master John quickly moved a few pieces of furniture out of the way so the dancers could have ample space for the jig Georgiana and Mary had chosen.

As Colonel Fitzwilliam took his seat next to her, Elizabeth scanned the music, grateful it was something she was familiar with, and took off her gloves to play easier. Colonel Fitzwilliam leaned closer to reach the pages, watching as she pulled her gloves off, causing him to inhale sharply. Elizabeth, with the Colonel sitting so near, feared she would have a hard time concentrating. The pair watched as the three couples lined up across from each other, the three ladies smiling and giggling with delight.

Elizabeth shook her head with a smile, “well then, are we ready?” They nodded, and Elizabeth began to play. The Colonel, it turned out, was quiet adept at turning pages as he admired Elizabeth from his seat next to her. Sitting this close, he could smell the faint scent of roses as he leaned in to turn a page, and he inhaled deeply, enjoying the closeness they were experiencing. If the simple act of her pulling off her gloves was enough to send him over the edge, sitting this near would certainly do him in! It was short lived however, for too soon he turned the last page and the song had come to an end. They all clapped, much to Mary's embarrassment, for she had proven to be an excellent dancer. As Elizabeth put the sheet music back in order, Colonel Fitzwilliam quietly leaned in closer to her.

“Miss Elizabeth, may I ask permission to call upon you tomorrow?”

She stopped sorting the music and turned to look at him. He was smiling at her, which made his entire face light up, and looking at her in such an earnest way she thought she may melt. “Why of course Colonel, we would be delighted to have you!”

“So you shall. I believe Mr. Bingley was planning to call as well.”

She smiled, knowing Mr. Bingley's enthusiasm for calling on them at Longbourn was known throughout the neighborhood. “You must stay for supper then, for I am sure Mr. Bingley will be joining us.”

The Colonel smiled at her generosity, “I would not wish to intrude, or appear to be inviting myself Miss Elizabeth, but I would be honored to stay and dine with you all.”

“Indeed, you shall be welcome! I believe Colonel Forester and his new wife are planning to attend. Shall you invite your two other commanding officers? They will be most welcome!”

“If you like, for I know they would be most pleased not to dine with the regiment!”

Elizabeth nodded and blushed slightly; something she seemed to do continually in his presence, regardless of what they spoke of, for his gaze was enough. “I daresay we had better return to the ball, for Mr. Bingley would be quite grieved if we all stay here the rest of the evening.”

“Yes, very much so, although I know Darcy would rather hide in here!”

“Quite right Fitzwilliam,” Mr. Darcy said from behind them, “now, I believe Miss Elizabeth, I am to be honored with the next, am I correct?”

“Yes, you are correct Mr. Darcy.” Elizabeth stood and followed the gentleman to the doorway. They abruptly stopped though when Mr. Collins appeared before them.

“Cousin Elizabeth, there you are! I have been searching for you quite sometime! May I have the honor of the next?” He said rather loudly, and then paused when he realized that she was surrounded by several gentlemen, and holding the arm of Mr. Darcy. “I…what is going on here!”

She felt Mr. Darcy tense underneath her hand at the clergyman's implication and she became quite angry. “Mr. Collins! Lower your voice, please. We were entertaining our sisters, who have not been introduced to society as of yet. There is nothing improper happening, just some music.”

Mr. Collins quickly became relieved, “well then, my dear cousin, let us dance again!” He quickly took a hold of her arm to pull her with him, much to her displeasure, and she quickly held tighter onto Mr. Darcy's arm.

Colonel Fitzwilliam, who had been watching the scene from behind Elizabeth with some amusement, quickly became angry when the parson took her arm against her will. He quickly noticed her tense and he quietly placed a firm hand on Mr. Collins' wrist. With a growl he turned on the ridiculous man, “Sir!”

Mr. Collins quickly paled under the Colonel's towering form and furious gaze and retreated slightly, looking from Elizabeth to Mr. Darcy in shock, the Colonel still gripping his wrist.

“Richard,” Mr. Darcy warned quietly. He knew of his cousin's attraction for Miss Elizabeth and also knew of his temper when provoked. He knew of no better provocation than another man taking it upon himself to touch the woman he hoped to someday court. Elizabeth quickly became distressed at her cousin's lack of breeding and closed her eyes in mortification. She released Mr. Darcy's arm and gently touched Colonel Fitzwilliam's arm.

“Colonel, it is alright. I fear my cousin was thinking something improper had happened.” He turned slightly to look down at her, his eyes full of fire, ready to fight, and released the parson. Elizabeth sighed, knowing she had to put Mr. Collins in his place, “Mr. Collins, it is improper for you touch me, and highly improper for you to dance with me a third time. I have already promised the next to Mr. Darcy, so if you will excuse us, please.”

Mr. Collins, realizing he had just offended not only his fair cousin, but Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam, both relatives of his noble patroness, began bowing profusely and apologizing with great remorse. Elizabeth let herself be led away by Mr. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam walking on the other side of her in silence. With a sigh, she put her right hand to her forehead, her eyes beginning to water against her will. The overwhelming presence of the Colonel, and her still unfamiliar feeling towards him, complied with the annoying attentions of improprieties of Mr. Collins was becoming too much for her to bear.

“Miss Elizabeth, are you unwell?” The Colonel asked with great concern as he noticed her distress. Mr. Darcy quickly stopped before they entered the ballroom and looked down to her with concern.

“I am well, thank you, just utterly mortified!” she paused and turned to Mr. Darcy, tears threatening to spill down her cheeks, “Mr. Darcy, would I offend you greatly if I asked to be released from our dance? I wish to speak with my father.”

“I would not be offended in the slightest Miss Elizabeth. I believe your father is in the billiard room with Mr. Long,” he paused and looked at his cousin with a frown, seeing he was deeply concerned over Miss Elizabeth's welfare, “I should check on Rebecca, Fitzwilliam, would you mind escorting Miss Elizabeth?”

Colonel Fitzwilliam, who had been staring at Elizabeth, quickly agreed and offered his arm to her. She accepted it gratefully with a kind smile and let him lead her across the hall to the billiard room, the Colonel handing her his handkerchief along the way when she turned away and began to cry. It took every ounce of composure not to take her into his arms to comfort her, as well as call the oily clergyman out for his actions. The sounds of laughter could be heard as they neared the billiard room, and Elizabeth paused slightly, which made the Colonel stop and turn to her.

The sight of her distress was quickly getting the better of him and he put his hand over hers. “Miss Elizabeth, please sit down, I will retrieve Mr. Bennet.”

She shook her head, wiping the tears from her face gently, “no, I am fine. I hate to disturb him though.”

“I'm sure he won't mind. Come then, I will go in first,” he led her to the door, where he opened it slightly to see Mr. Bennet leaned over the table to take a shot.

“Colonel! Have you come to play then! I knew you could be persuaded,” Mr. Long exclaimed. Mr. Bennet smirked and took his shot, watching the ball sink into the pocket as planned.

“Actually no, Mr. Bennet, Miss Elizabeth is outside and wishes to speak with you sir,” He turned slightly to reveal Elizabeth standing behind him, obviously distressed. Mr. Bennet quickly put down his cue and made his way around the table to his favorite daughter.

“Lizzy, what is it my dear? What has upset you so?” Elizabeth quickly embraced her father, tears beginning to fall down her cheeks as she closed her eyes against his warmth. Mr. Bennet rested his head on hers and looked at Colonel Fitzwilliam, who looked quite concerned. He closed the door behind them, Mr. Long pouring a glass of wine for Elizabeth and Colonel Fitzwilliam pouring a brandy for himself.

Mr. Bennet pulled away slightly from his daughter, “Lizzy, this is unlike you! What ever is the matter?”

When she did not answer, he became somewhat alarmed that something dreadful had befallen her. He noticed the agitated state of the Colonel and quickly became suspicious. “Colonel, perhaps you could tell me what has my daughter so upset.”

The Colonel winced slightly as his accusing tone, “I believe Mr. Collins has upset her Mr. Bennet. If you will excuse me please.” He finished his brandy in one gulp and with a curt bow, quit the room before his anger got the better of him. Mr. Bennet was just being a protective father, but he could not let him think he had upset Elizabeth.

When the Colonel closed the door, Mr. Bennet led Elizabeth over to a chair and kneeled down in front of her, taking her hand. “Lizzy, what could Mr. Collins have done?”

“Oh Papa, I walked to the drawing room to check on Mary with Mr. Lucas, they were having a fine time, as the Colonel had come to dance with Georgiana. Then Mr. Darcy and Master John came and I played for them while they all danced. Mr. Darcy was escorting me back into the ball, and as we were leaving the room, Mr. Collins met us in the hall and practically accused them of impropriety towards me. Aunt Phillips was there and heard everything! Then he took my arm and began to pull me away from Mr. Darcy when Colonel Fitzwilliam stepped between us. I have never been so humiliated Papa! He wanted to dance with me again! I fear he reads too much into our acquaintance!” At this she broke down and covered her face with the Colonel's handkerchief.

A soft knock on the door made them all start and it opened to reveal the Colonel, this time escorting Jane. Seeing her sister's distress, she quickly ran over to Elizabeth and sat down next to her, enfolding her in her embrace. Mr. Bennet stood and turned to the Colonel apologetically.

“Colonel, I apologize for my behavior, I fear I am overprotective of my daughters since their mother died. I did not mean to sound accusing. Thank you for your actions this evening.”

Colonel Fitzwilliam sighed, his anger still simmering underneath the surface, “no thank you is necessary, I assure you. Any gentleman would have acted the same way.”

“Yes well, thank you all the same,” the dinner bell sounded then, making everyone startle slightly, “I hear we are being called to supper.”

Colonel Fitzwilliam nodded, and with a longing look towards Elizabeth, turned to join Darcy and Anne as they walked into the dining room, Mr. Long following him out to find his wife. Mr. Bennet turned back to his daughters, who were holding each other in a firm embrace. He sighed, wishing his wife was here to help him through this. Try as he might, he never knew exactly what to do in these situations. He went over to the settee and looked down at his beloved daughters with such a feeling of love and devotion he thought his heart might burst. The thought of any man upsetting them almost drove him to violence.

“Come my dears, let us go into supper. Mary is outside waiting and I daresay Mr. Bingley will come searching for us before long.”

Jane wiped Elizabeth's eyes gently and kissed her cheek, “give us a moment Papa, please.” Mr. Bennet nodded and quit the room to stand in front of the door, guarding it from any unwelcome visitors that may wish to intrude.

Elizabeth knew she must look a mess, and for the Colonel, who had been so generous, to have seen in such a state was distressing her greatly. When her father closed the door, she told Jane of Mr. Collins' actions, and the Colonel's. “Jane, how shall I ever face him?”

“Lizzy, do not upset yourself. I have seen the way he looks at you, and he is surely to be more worried than offended. Truly Lizzy, you must see.”

She nodded, ever grateful for Jane's serene understanding of all things, “he has asked to call tomorrow with Mr. Bingley, and I shall read nothing into that. But that was before, I'm sure he would not wish to call after what happened this evening.”

Jane smiled brightly at the mention of Mr. Bingley, and then she frowned, “Lizzy, I'm sure you are mistaken.”

They sat there for a little while longer, hoping that Elizabeth's swollen red eyes would return to their normal appearance. After declaring her beautiful, they opened the door to see their father standing with Mary and Mr. Bingley, who looked greatly concerned.

“Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth, is everything alright?”

Elizabeth smiled, “all is well Mr. Bingley. I apologize if I have inconvienced you.”

Mr. Bingley would hear nothing of it, “Caroline is holding things up actually, as she has suffered a tear in her gown. Supper has not yet been served.” He then offered his arm to them both, and led them smiling into the dining room, Mary and Mr. Bennet following close behind. They entered to see everyone milling about, talking and drinking and having a wonderful time. Elizabeth spotted Mr. Collins coming towards them, a maniacal expression on his face. She unknowingly held tighter to Mr. Bingley's arm, much to his surprise.

“Cousin Elizabeth! May I sit next to you at supper?”

Poor Mr. Bingley, who only knew that Mr. Collins had upset her, quickly looked to Mr. Bennet for instructions.

“Mr. Collins, we are obliged to sit with Bingley and his guests. I believe the seating has already been arranged,” Mr. Bennet replied coldly. Mr. Collins nodded and rushed to find his seat, never one to miss a meal. Elizabeth cast a grateful smile to her father, and allowed Mr. Bingley to lead her to her seat.

Chapter 3, Part II

Netherfield Ball continued…

Colonel Fitzwilliam paced along the balcony outside the great hall, the cool air doing nothing to curb his anger. Usually a patient, easy-going man, the evening had been a trial to his composure. While he was attracted to Miss Elizabeth, for who could not be, the facts remained the same. He could offer her nothing, well, almost nothing. Should he push aside his feelings and settle with being friends?

“Richard, you shall wear a hole in the floor if you keep this up. Bingley will not be pleased,” Mr. Darcy replied from the doorway. He had been watching his cousin for several minutes, noticing a series of emotions pass over his usual calm demeanor.

“Anything I can help with?”

Colonel Fitzwilliam smirked and continued to pace. He stopped suddenly and turned to his cousin, “Darcy, do you remember at your wedding, when you asked if I had anyone in mind?”

Darcy nodded, and he continued, “when you left, I thought back to when Sophia was presented. Miss Elizabeth was there that day, searching for her fan that she had misplaced. I discovered the item and returned it to her, and her face stayed in my mind for months. I was so taken with her that during every ball I attended, I searched for her. Never did I see her again until I arrived in Meryton. She intrigues me Darcy, and it scares me.”

His cousin laughed, which made him glare, “Richard, to think that Miss Elizabeth scares you! She is a delightful lady, and is quite intelligent as well. Anne and Georgiana are most pleased with her, and I'm sure Aunt Catherine would be as well.” He intentionally did not mention his Aunt and Uncle, for that was another conversation. “What's stopping you?”

“My life for one, what could I offer her? Certainly another man could offer more. I will return to the peninsula eventually, I am sure of it. Then what would I do?”

“Richard, what are your feelings for her? You obviously like her a great deal.”

“I…” he paused, uncomfortable with admitting his feelings even to himself, “I've never been in this position before Darcy, and I wanted to throttle Collins for upsetting her. When I am in her presence, I am beyond happiness, and when I am not, she is constantly in my thoughts, even after such a short acquaintance.”

Darcy nodded, as he knew exactly what he meant, “be careful toward Mr. Collins, I would not have you calling him out over this nonsense. He is an utter fool and unfortunately her cousin. Hold your temper, no matter how difficult it becomes.” He smiled at his cousin and gave him a pat on the back, “well then, unless you wish to remain only friends with Miss Elizabeth, I suggest you take this opportunity to charm her senseless. But be warned Richard, do not toy with her if you are not serious in your intentions toward her.” This was said with a hint of jest in his voice, but he knew his cousin had already charmed the lively Miss Elizabeth, and his intentions were most honorable.

“I would not toy with any woman Darcy, you should know that. She is different.”

Darcy agreed, “yes, she is. All the more reason for you to decide what you intend to do. Contrary to what you believe cousin, you do have a lot to offer.”

***
Elizabeth looked over to the table where she was to dine and saw Anne and Georgiana sitting together and chatting, but Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam were nowhere to be seen. Anne had been apprised of what had happened and purposely saved a place between her cousin and husband for Elizabeth, knowing they would serve as protection against that vile man, not to mention provide stimulating dinner conversation. Mr. Bingley led them all over to his table and Anne quickly grasped Elizabeth's hand and sat her down in the empty chair, and much to Mr. Collins displeasure, for he was seated far away. Elizabeth quietly murmured a thank you to Anne, and sat down heavily.

Anne leaned across the empty chair to address her friend, “Lizzy, William told me what happened. Are you alright?”

Elizabeth nodded as Jane placed a glass of wine in front of her, “I am well Anne, thank you for your concern. I could use some advice however.”

Anne smiled at her, “oh? And what advice could that be?”

“Tell me how to get rid of Mr. Collins!” She whispered with enthusiasm, her spirits slowly returning.

Anne held back her reply of `marry my cousin' as she saw the Colonel and Mr. Darcy enter the room, “well Lizzy, I daresay I could get Mother to release him, but then that might drive him back to Longbourn. Perhaps a well worded answer might suffice.”

Elizabeth shuddered at the thought of Mr. Collins proposing to her, especially as he leered at her from a safe distance across the table. She turned to reply but was surprised by Mr. Darcy sitting down next to her on her right.

“Mr. Darcy!”

“Good evening Miss Elizabeth, I trust you are well?

“Yes I am much better, thank you.” She had not expected to sit next to Mr. Darcy, and was somewhat embarrassed, but nothing would compare to the mortification she felt as she saw the Colonel sitting down next to her. From the corner of her eye could she Anne smiling at her.

She turned to see the Colonel looking at her, his eyes searching her face in concern. “Miss Elizabeth! I see you are much recovered.”

Murmuring a quiet thank you, she turned to see Jane smiling back at her with a mischievous grin. She cast a hesitant grin across the table at her sister just as they began to serve supper. Try as she might, she couldn't bring herself to look to her left, however much she wanted to. Miss Bingley, whose dress had been repaired, sat on the Colonel's left and kept him engrossed in conversation throughout most of the meal, much to his chagrin.

As supper wound down, Mr. Bingley began to express a wish for some music, to which Miss Bingley quickly obliged with a rousing piano concerto by Mozart, which showed off her expertise of the pianoforte. While she was playing, the Colonel, who had been watching Elizabeth during the performance, leaned in to speak to her.

“Miss Elizabeth, I am most glad to see you are feeling better. I apologize if I was the cause of any of your distress.”

Elizabeth turned to him with a shocked expression on her face, “please, you were not the reason for my distress. I must thank you for stopping Mr. Collins, for I have tried to dissuade him many times over.”

The Colonel rewarded her with a wide smile, which immediately raised her spirits and she returned his. To him, seeing her smile was worth every scolding he had received from Darcy regarding his behavior towards the clergyman, and the concern over his feelings towards her began to disappear slightly.

“Miss Elizabeth, will you play for us as well?” The Colonel asked while Miss Bingley entered the second movement of her piece. “I believe I am available to turn the pages for you.”

She realized he was teasing her, “oh, I think not Colonel. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst are far too accomplished, and I wouldn't wish to embarrass myself or my family.”

“Hmm, yes they are quite accomplished, but they do not sing as you do. I would enjoy hearing you play and sing, for Georgiana says she has never heard anything so beautiful.” He told her earnestly.

He was not teasing this time, she knew, for she could see his eyes were looking at her with such an expression of honesty. It almost brought tears to her own, “well, if you insist upon it, then I shall.”

Mr. Bennet watched with interest the exchange going on between Colonel Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth, wondering where it would lead. The Colonel seemed genuinely concerned for her welfare, and she seemed to enjoy his company a great deal. His interest especially piqued when Mr. Bingley asked her to play and sing for them, and when Georgiana jumped at the chance to turn pages for her, the Colonel looked almost disappointed that he would not have that honor.

“Well Miss Elizabeth, shall you sing in English or Italian?” Mr. Bingley asked her as she rose from her chair.

“I think English tonight Mr. Bingley,” she told him with easily. Elizabeth flashed Georgiana a wink as she accompanied her to the pianoforte, relieved that she would be turning the pages instead of the Colonel, for she needed to concentrate and it would have been most difficult had he been sitting next to her, especially while performing the piece she had worked on with Georgiana earlier in the week. It was well known in Hertfordshire that Elizabeth was one of the most accomplished musicians of the area, but she felt her performance would not be as technically perfect as Miss Bingley. With that in mind, she glanced up to see her father smiling at her, along with Jane and Mr. Bingley, and the Colonel was directly in front of her, gazing at her tenderly. Their looks alone brought back her confidence as she looked down at her music and began to play.

Tell me what love is, what can it be
What is this yearning burning me?
Can I survive it, will I endure?
This is my sickness, is there a cure?
First his obsession seizing my brain,
Starting in passion, ending in pain.
I start to shiver, then I'm on fire,
Then I'm aquiver with seething desire.
Who knows the secret, who holds the key?
I long for something - what can it be?
My brain is reeling, I wonder why;
And then the feeling I'm going to die.
By day it haunts me, haunts me by night.
This tender torment, tinged with delight!
Tell me what love is, what can it be?
What is this yearning, burning in me?
What is this yearning, burning in me?
What is this yearning, burning in me?

The meaning of the words were not lost on the Colonel as he listened to her sing, mesmerized and again feeling unfamiliar feelings stir within him, as he had never heard anything as beautiful. Miss Bingley had tried to converse with him as Elizabeth had begun to play, but the Colonel ignored her, much to Mr. Bennet's amusement. Elizabeth finished her song, which was to be the last performance of the evening before the guests returned to the ball.

Jane, who loved more than anything to hear her sister play and sing, rose to embrace her sister as everyone applauded her performance. “Oh Lizzy, that was beautiful!”

“Thank you Jane, but it was not as masterful as some of the other performances this evening.”

Jane waved off her modesty, “Lizzy, you know very well you are quite talented!”

Elizabeth began to put the sheet music back in order when her father appeared at her side. “Lizzy, very beautiful my dear, as always, I believe the Colonel especially appreciated your performance.”

She blushed slightly and looked up to see Colonel Fitzwilliam speaking with another officer, but his gaze rested on her while he spoke, “oh Papa, don't tease me so!”

He smirked at her innocence, “I am not teasing my love. Anyone who watched him while you sang would agree.”

With a wave of her hand, he laughed and turned to escort Mary back to the drawing room, where undoubtedly more music would be heard throughout the evening. She was soon joined by Anne, who began to help her put music back in order, while smiling to herself.

“Lizzy, I must say your performance on the pianoforte improves every time I hear you. Why, even Caroline commented that it was lovely.”

Elizabeth stopped sorting to look at Anne, who was trying not to laugh. Unable to hold it back any longer, they both laughed aloud at the thought of Caroline Bingley complementing anyone's performance.

“And what is so amusing Anne, Miss Elizabeth?”

They looked up to see the Colonel standing before them in mock anger, his hands on his hips and an eyebrow raised. It was too much for Elizabeth, and she began to giggle uncontrollably, which caused Anne to do likewise. It took several minutes of severe looks from Mrs. Hurst and the Colonel waiting patiently for them to be able to stop, before their laughter finally ceased. And Colonel Fitzwilliam was still unaware of the reason for their discomposure.

“Oh! I am sorry Richard; it was my fault I assure you!” Anne exclaimed, trying not to laugh again.

“Do not apologize cousin, it makes me happy to see you both so amused,” he answered softly, directing an intense look at Elizabeth, “shall we?”

He offered both ladies an arm, and escorted them back to the ballroom, where Mr. Bingley was awaiting to claim his dances with Elizabeth. The rest of the evening was spent switching from dance partner to dance partner, Mr. Darcy finally claiming his dance and Mr. Bennet, surprising all his neighbors by dancing a reel with both Jane and Elizabeth, ignoring his gout. A great cheer was heard when Colonel Forester announced that the militia would be honored to host the Twelfth Night ball in January in the assembly room, along with the regiment of cavalry. Mr. Collins still hovered around Elizabeth, much to her dismay, but she endured it well. The Colonel, while dancing with several of the ladies present, spent most of the evening near Elizabeth, if not speaking to her directly. At the end of the evening, while awaiting their carriage, the Colonel put himself between Elizabeth and Mr. Collins again, this time after reading the look on her face.

“Thank you Colonel! It is almost becoming unbearable! I am sorry you feel you must rescue me!”

“Think nothing of it Miss Elizabeth, I shall rescue as often as necessary,” he looked at her intently, taking her and kissing her fingers softly. He knew his actions were a bit forward for such a short acquaintance, but he ignored propriety for that short moment.

“Thank you” she said softly, trying not to tremble, “we will look forward to seeing you tomorrow then?”

“Yes you shall. But I am afraid you are not rid of me as of yet.”

She looked at him in confusion as the stable hands brought around their carriage, and then several mounts that belonged to the officers. “There has been some trouble with highwaymen, as I said before. The militia has yet to capture them, so until that time, we shall escort you home.”

Elizabeth nodded, somewhat concerned over these highwaymen that she had heard so much about. It eased her mind to be escorted home by the army officers, but it did nothing to quell her fears when taking her cherished early morning walks. Pushing her uneasiness aside, she joined her father and sisters and waited her turn to be handed into the carriage by her father, immediately wishing she could ride atop and away from Mr. Collins. As they settled themselves in, Mr. Bingley came to the door to wish them goodbye.

“We shall see you again tomorrow then, Mr. Bingley?” Mr. Bennet asked for Jane's benefit. Thankfully it was dark and no one saw the deep blush that came over her features.

“Yes you shall!” He turned to see the officers mounting their horses, “it seems your escort is ready then. Goodnight.”

Mr. Bingley waved at them fondly and the carriage pulled away behind another equipage that belonged to the Lucas', the two sons riding along outside for protection. They turned out of the drive to Netherfield, a pair of officers on each side of the carriage, along with one leading the way and one behind.

“Papa, what have you heard of these highwaymen?” Elizabeth asked, settling back in the seat and trying not to stare out the window at the Colonel riding along side.

“Nothing good I'm afraid, my dear. They seem to be a vile lot of creatures, preying on women and the like. The militia has been searching for them day and night to no avail. Colonel Forester believes they are leaving the area sometime before first light, but has yet to trace them anywhere. The militia is searching as we speak. I would not be surprised if we came upon them.”

“Such unchristian men should be punished severely I think,” Mr. Collins began. He then proceeded to go on and on about the Ten Commandments and quoting Fordyce. The speech was so ridiculous that Elizabeth nearly lost her composure twice. She watched as the Lucas' carriage turned off, followed by two officers. The girls waved to Charlotte and Mariah as they pulled away, their friends waving back with enthusiasm.

From her vantage point, sitting the closest to the door, she could see Colonel Fitzwilliam and Captain Markham talking to each other quietly while they rode along, their swords softly catching the light that came from the front of the carriage. It put her at ease with them so near, as her father's talk of the highwaymen had made her a bit fearful. Suddenly, the carriage jerked to a halt, as the officer leading the way raised his hand to halt the procession. She saw that they were still at least two miles from Longbourn, and began to worry exceedingly.

Several shouts could be heard, and Mr. Bennet bade them all to keep still, pulling out a pistol from under the seat. Elizabeth's eyes widened at the sight of her father with a pistol, and Mary, who was sitting between Elizabeth and Jane, had become quite frightened and opened her mouth as if to scream. Jane and Elizabeth both covered her mouth to stifle the sound and watched as Colonel Fitzwilliam and Captain Markham dismounted from their horses, their attention focused on the wooded area to their right.

“Lizzy, Jane, do not let her scream. Mary my love all will be well,” Mr. Bennet said, reaching across the carriage and taking Mary's hands in his own. Mr. Collins sat very still, and Elizabeth wondered several times if he was still breathing. The sound of a sword being pulled from its scabbard made them all jump, and the sight of Colonel Fitzwilliam appearing silently in the window closest to her nearly made her scream. He leaned into the open area above the door, the heavy cavalry sword clutched tightly in his right hand.

“The militia is tracking them now and they are in this area. We have stopped because they are blocking the road ahead with their cart.” He then turned to Elizabeth, who was still recovering from the shock of him appearing suddenly. “It was not my intent to frighten you Miss Elizabeth, I apologize.”

“It is quite alright Colonel. You only startled me with your sudden appearance.”

He smiled at her, and at the shout of the officer in front saying the road was clear, he mounted his horse again and rode closely to the carriage. Elizabeth didn't bother trying not to stare as they rode towards Longbourn in silence, as watching him made her feel safe. Everyone in the carriage breathed a great sigh of relief as they pulled into the park and stopped outside the house. Jane, Mary and Elizabeth all leaned back against the seat in relief that they had made it home safely.

The carriage door opened and Colonel Fitzwilliam appeared with a jovial smile on his face. “There now, here we are, and no worse for wear!” He offered his hand to Elizabeth, who accepted gratefully and he handed her down from the carriage, much to Mr. Collins dismay. He knew his hand lingered a little longer than necessary, and he knew Mr. Bennet likely saw this, so he reluctantly let go to hand Mary and Jane down as well.

As the driver took the coach to the stables, Mr. Bennet turned to the four officers, “gentleman, I thank your for our safe passage! Would you care for a drink before you ride back into Meryton?”

The officers looked to Colonel Fitzwilliam hopefully, and since he was no hurry to leave Miss Elizabeth's company, he accepted Mr. Bennet's invitation. So it was a crowd of people that met Mrs. Hill at the door of Longbourn, much to her shock. Mr. Bennet invited the officers into his library, and the Colonel watched with dismay as the sisters and Mr. Collins made their way to the drawing room.

A short time later, the gentleman could hear the notes of “Moonlight Sonata” coming from the drawing room. They all left the library, the Colonel walking along with Mr. Bennet towards the music. “Ah, that must be Lizzy. She tends to play quite a bit when she has had a scare. Why, when her mother and sisters died she would play for hours on end. I hear your cousin Georgiana is much the same way.”

Colonel Fitzwilliam nodded, “yes she is, there were times when she was in London that she would play all day long without stopping.” He wondered what all Mr. Bennet knew about his cousin Georgiana, but decided to leave it be for now. They entered the drawing room behind the other officers and saw that it was indeed Elizabeth playing the gentle song, while Jane turned the pages for her, her elbow resting on the ledge with exhaustion. Jane knew Lizzy didn't need to read the music to play this particular piece, but it was better than listening to Mary and Mr. Collins discussing Fordyce. The Colonel was taken aback at the scene, as Elizabeth was playing with her eyes closed, blocking out the entire world and the noise of conversation in the drawing room. He knew he should not have stared at her, but he could not tear his eyes away from her. As if she felt his stare, she opened her eyes to look directly into his, the connection between them apparent. She ended the movement, much to Jane's relief and smiled with thanks at the officers when they applauded her performance.

It was quite late, and as much as Colonel Fitzwilliam did not want to leave, the regiment had to be up early in the morning for practice drills. The officers thanked Mr. Bennet for the drinks and Elizabeth for her performance once again, and rode away onto Meryton. Jane and Elizabeth, while happy that the officers visited, were glad to be able to retire, neither having the strength to have one of their late night conversations as was their custom after such an event. So it was Jane that fell asleep with pleasant thoughts of Mr. Bingley in her head as Elizabeth fell asleep pondering her feelings towards Colonel Fitzwilliam.

Chapter 4 Part I

November 27, 1812
The Proposal

Elizabeth sat at the breakfast table the morning after the ball, slightly uneasy and uncomfortable with the glances her cousin, Mr. Collins, was directing towards her. After the officers had left last night, he had insisted on escorting her to her bedchamber, and she quickly closed the door rather unceremoniously in his face. Now he sat across from her, smiling sweetly at her, so much so that she didn't think that she would be able to finish her breakfast.

“Lizzy, do you want to go for a walk when you are finished?” Jane asked her with a smile, obviously wanting to talk in private about the events of last evening.

“May I accompany you, Cousin Elizabeth?”

Jane frowned and looked to her father for assistance, hoping he would ask him to stay indoors. To everyone's surprise, it was Mary who saved the day.

“Mr. Collins, I should enjoy continuing our conversation of last night regarding Fordyce, if you are willing.”

Mr. Collins, was obviously torn between spending time with his dear cousin Elizabeth, and his duty to help the young Mary in her moralistic studies. “Well, I…”

“Jane, actually can we walk into Meryton? I could use a bit of ribbon for my new bonnet.” Elizabeth said, hoping he wouldn't want to come along.

Mr. Collins remembered the long walk and quickly declined, “I shall help cousin Mary with Fordyce, for I feel it falls upon my duty of a clergyman to assist her with her moralistic studies.”

Elizabeth smiled at Jane and dropped her napkin on her plate, “well then, shall we Jane?”

“Lizzy, Jane, be careful and heed the warning from the militia about the highwaymen. Do not wander about.” Mr. Bennet told them with concern.

“We won't Papa; we shall stay to the main roads,” Jane replied with a bright smile.

The sisters rose from their chairs, and after casting a thankful smile to Mary, donned their cloaks and set out towards Meryton. Elizabeth didn't actually need any ribbon, but it gave them excuse to avoid Mr. Collins, and she was sure her father was well aware of their plan.

“Lizzy, so tell me about the Colonel. He seemed to pay you quite a lot of attention last night.”

Elizabeth shook her head, “no Jane, you are mistaken! He was gentlemanly when I was distressed, and while we did dance together, he didn't pay me any special notice.”

Jane smiled at her sister's modesty. “Lizzy, surely you can see he favors you!”

She blushed slightly in the cool air, but did not answer. They walked on towards Meryton, Jane speaking of Mr. Bingley and of his sisters, who she found quite pleasing, much to Elizabeth's amusement. Her sister could always find the good in anyone. She had no tolerance for ladies like Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst, she had dealt with enough of them her first season in London, and had had no wish to further the acquaintance, Mr. Bingley being the exception.

They arrived in Meryton to find their small town was quite busy, with militia officers seemingly around every corner, and a general sense of panic from everyone they spoke with. Becoming slightly alarmed, they went into Mrs. Smith's shop and quickly asked her what was going on.

“Oh girls! Tell me you didn't walk here from Longbourn!” Mrs. Smith exclaimed with an air of panic.

Jane looked at her at shock and Elizabeth replied, “yes, why do you ask?”

Mrs. Smith immediately began to flit about the shop. “Thank goodness you are safe! The Army and the Militia have been chasing those highwaymen this morning! It started last night, and there has been shooting and all sorts of horrible things!”

Jane quickly became pale, and Elizabeth patted her hand comfortingly, “do not worry Mrs. Smith, we shall be fine. We saw no one during our walk and are unlikely to see anyone on the way home.”

Jane nodded in agreement, her fear fading slightly, “yes,” she replied strongly, “we shall be quite safe.”

Mrs. Smith was not convinced, but did not try to detain them when they left her shop. The scene outside was much more chaotic than before, and only then did Elizabeth began to feel a little uneasy, but pushed it aside. They began to walk back towards Longbourn in silence, their arms linked in an effort to keep each other calm, and their eyes darting around the countryside, looking for anyone unfamiliar. As they approached the bridge, the sound of hoof beats could be heard behind them, and they immediately stopped, Elizabeth turning around slowly.

What she saw made her quiver with fear. On horseback was a very dirty, wild looking man, eyeing them lewdly. Jane began to tug on Elizabeth's arm, and she turned back around to see several officers coming across the bridge towards them on horseback. Elizabeth turned so she was face to face with Jane, their hands clutching each other's tightly, unsure as to what their next action should be. She could hear the horse behind them coming closer, and without thinking of herself, only of Jane, she pulled her towards one side of the bridge, just in time for several officers to ride past them after the highwayman, with three of them stopping and jumping off their horses to make sure they were alright. Elizabeth emitted a great sigh of relief as the officers came to their aid.

The first one to reach them was Colonel Fitzwilliam, who when realizing who they were, was nearly thrown from his horse because he pulled up so quickly in his haste to assure himself of their safety. Fear for the sisters welled up inside him as he saw the frightened look on their faces. Jumping down nearby, he ran over to them, “Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth! What in the devil are you doing out here! Are you alright?”

He said this a little harshly, Elizabeth thought, but then realized by the worried look in his eyes that he was only concerned and not angry. Jane, who was still holding on to Elizabeth's hands tightly nodded and burst into tears. Elizabeth gently pulled her into an embrace, looking up at the Colonel as she did so with an apologetic look.

“I am sorry Colonel, we were walking back towards Longbourn when he came up behind us,” she saw the worried look on his face and continued more solemnly, “we should have stayed in Meryton.”

Colonel Fitzwilliam's face fell as he realized he had been quite coarse with them, which was not his intent, “allow me to apologize, I did not mean to sound so severe.” He turned to wave over another officer, “I shall escort you back to Longbourn myself, just allow me a moment.”

He turned to issue an order, what it was Elizabeth had no idea, as she was too busy chastising herself for being so careless. Jane was still crying and she was on the verge of tears herself. She rested her head against Jane's, a single tear rolling down her cheek.

“Janey I'm sorry, please forgive me.”

Jane pulled back from her embrace and wiped the tear off her cheek. “Lizzy, please, do not distress yourself, I did not think we would be in any danger either.”

The Colonel watched this tender scene with a smile, happy there were both unharmed and only a little frightened. “Well ladies, shall we?” he gathered his horse's reins in one hand and turned the animal around, noticing that Elizabeth stepped quickly away from the horse, taking Jane with her.

Jane laughed softly at her sister, “oh Lizzy, he will not hurt you.” Elizabeth eyed the tall gray horse up and down, a little fearful.

Colonel Fitzwilliam chuckled at her expression. “His name is Jupiter and he is the best horse I have ever had,” he stroked the horse's muzzle softly, “see, he does not bite. In all honesty he is very gentle, except when asked to charge.”

Elizabeth watched as Jane stroked the muzzle gently, still not wanting to get any closer. Her fear of horses had been long standing since the fall she took off Nellie when she was fourteen, and certain other incidents since then, and she had no wish to repeat such an act. The Colonel however, would not be dissuaded.

He held his hand out to her with a smile and she gingerly took it, deciding she could trust him and watching fearfully as he led her up to the muzzle and placed her hand there, his own covering hers warmly. “See, he will not bite you,” he said in a soft voice close to her ear. A little shiver ran down her spine and her eyes locked on his hand that covered hers completely.

“Would you like to ride him?”

Elizabeth vehemently shook her head no and stepped back quickly, feeling the fear well up inside her. Jane smiled at her sister kindly, “Lizzy was thrown from Nellie a few years ago, and hasn't been this close to a horse since.”

The Colonel nodded in understanding and laughed, “I've been thrown from a horse more times than I care to admit! You must be tired, both of you, are you sure you would not rather ride than walk? You both could ride him easy enough.”

Jane accepted his offer, and placing her left foot in the stirrup, he quickly helped her up into the saddle. When he was sure Jane was secure, he turned to Elizabeth, who had backed even farther away. “Miss Elizabeth, please, I would not have you exhaust yourself by walking back.”

She smiled at his generosity, but shook her head again, “no thank you, I would much prefer to walk. I do however appreciate the offer.”

“Lizzy, please, I can see you are tired. He is quite safe, and you can ride in front of me and hold on, I will not let you fall.”

“Neither will I,” Colonel Fitzwilliam added softly, his blue eyes twinkling at her. Elizabeth seeing reason, and admitting to herself that with all the excitement her legs felt quite heavy, nodded her acceptance and cautiously walked towards the horse to where the Colonel was standing.

Jane moved back on the saddle to give Elizabeth room, and before she knew what was happening, a pair of strong hands grasped her about the waist and she was sitting atop the tall horse, Jane steadying her from behind. Drawing in a sharp breath, she quickly grabbed a handful of the silver mane and adjusted herself to a comfortable position.

“There, Lizzy, is that not better?”

Elizabeth remained silent but nodded slightly. Colonel Fitzwilliam looked up at her with a grin, “Ready then?” At her nod, he began to walk slowly, guiding the horse down the road towards Longbourn. Jupiter snorted slightly, unaccustomed to the different balance of weight and tossed his head, making Elizabeth hold on tighter in fear. Jane attempted to calm her slightly, but to no avail. She would not be calm again until her feet were on the ground safely.

Colonel Fitzwilliam's heart tugged at the sight of Elizabeth riding his horse. He wished he could be sitting behind her instead of Jane, holding on to her waist, her head resting against his shoulder as she clung to him. But, as it was, he was an honorable gentleman, and would see them safely home, reputation in tact and not a glimmer of scandal around them. They slowly walked through the gate of Longbourn, with Mr. Bennet coming out to greet the amusing sight.

“My dear Colonel, how ever did you get my Lizzy on a horse?”

Elizabeth glared at her father for teasing her, “Papa, you know very well I do not like horses. How ever am I to get down?” She was quickly becoming nervous, wondering at just how she would manage to make it to the ground without injury to herself, or anyone else for that matter.

Mr. Bennet walked up along side the now stopped horse as a stable boy came to take the reins from the Colonel, placing a comforting hand at her back. Colonel Fitzwilliam held out his arms to Jane, who quickly put her hands on his shoulders and was set upon the ground gently. Elizabeth now began to panic, as she was the only one in the saddle now and it felt quite unsafe without Jane behind her.

The Colonel sensed her panic, and stood before her, “Miss Elizabeth, you will come down just as you mounted, just hold on to me.”

She nodded as he reached up to grasp her waist firmly. Clutching his shoulders with both hands, he easily lifted her off the saddle and set her on the ground, his hands lingering a little to steady her.

“Thank you,” she said softly, not daring to look up at him.

“My pleasure, and I hope this will help overcome your fear of horses then Miss Elizabeth.”

Mr. Bennet laughed softly, which caused Jane to scold him gently. “Colonel, my Lizzy has every reason to be afraid of horses, so if you have helped her to overcome her fear, then I am greatly indebted to you. But I must ask, what brings you here this early? For I would imagine the regiment would be practicing on such a fine day!”

Jane and Elizabeth eyed their father before, casting guilty looks at one another, which caused Mr. Bennet's brow to rise slightly. He turned to the Colonel for an explanation.

“We were after the highwaymen again, and your daughters were in the wrong place at the wrong time. They were unharmed, but I felt it wise to escort them back to Longbourn.”

“Well then, we are in your debt once again good sir! Shall you come in for a bit of refreshment before you depart?”

The Colonel shook his head sadly, for he would rather spend the afternoon in Elizabeth's company than chasing after fugitives, “I fear I must return to the regiment. I do still intend to see you all this evening with Mr. Bingley and the other officers. Thank you for your offer Mr. Bennet.”

“Any time sir. Well, come now Jane, Elizabeth, inside before you cause any more trouble. Good day to you Colonel, we shall see you this evening then.”

He nodded and mounted his horse swiftly. Elizabeth watched him with a faint smile on her lips, which faded and a blush crept up her neck as he turned to address her. “Till later then.”

Elizabeth nodded, looking down at the ground, kicking a tiny rock with her shoe. The Colonel rode off down the lane, Mr. Bennet and Jane waving while Elizabeth still stared at the ground. Mr. Bennet, seeing his favorite daughter in such a state, immediately began to put the pieces together. He led them back inside, stopping outside his library.

“Lizzy, come into my room for a moment.”

She smiled nervously at Jane and followed her father into the library, fearful of what he might have to say about putting them in such danger. To her surprise, the highwayman did not even come up.

“Lizzy, I have seen the way the Colonel looks at you and you at him. I trust he has been honorable in his attentions toward you.”

Elizabeth's head jerked up quickly, her face red. “Papa, I…”

Mr. Bennet shook his head and smiled, “oh my dear Lizzy, for so long all the gentlemen callers have only paid attention to Jane, with the exception of that vile Earl,” here Elizabeth blushed painfully. “The Colonel is an honorable man, but I warn you, he is an Army officer, and likely to go back to Spain eventually. This war could go on for many more years and I would not like to see you injured by him.”

“Oh Papa! I believe you misunderstand, the Colonel has not singled me out in any such way! I enjoy his company that is all.”

“Lizzy….alright then. But I shall warn you to keep on your guard. He is a very amiable gentleman after all, he suits you creditably.”

Elizabeth shook her head in defense, but Mr. Bennet stopped her with a raise of his hand. “Now, now, go on then.”

She left her father's library, still wondering where he got the idea of Colonel Fitzwilliam paying her anything more than polite attentions, although if she was honest with herself she could see. She retired to her room for a while to rest, for the events of the morning had tired her immensely. Opening the door to the parlour a few hours later she stopped quickly when she saw Mr. Collins sitting in the room, seemingly awaiting her arrival.

“Cousin Elizabeth! I have been waiting for you, might I have a word please?” Before she could protest, he ushered her in the room and closed the door behind her. Seeing no escape, she sat down at the table, waiting for him to get to the point.

Mr. Collins paced in front of the fireplace for a spell, and then turned with a smug smile on his face. “My dear cousin Elizabeth, since my arrival here at Longbourn, I have come to see you are a very talented lady.”

“Thank you, sir.” Elizabeth replied, looking down at her hands folded in her lap.

“And since my arrival, I have come to see that you would make a most appropriate mistress of Hunsford.” He boldly eyed her form and smiled slightly. “You would learn your place well enough. My close position with the family de Bourgh makes my offer a most rewarding one for you.”

Elizabeth looked up at Mr. Collins, her eyes wide with shock and glittering with anger. How dare this man look at her in such a manner, and what did he mean, a rewarding offer! Her ire was rising the longer Mr. Collins stood before her and watched her.

Mr. Collins, sure his suit would be accepted, quickly moved towards Elizabeth and knelt down before her. As he reached for her hand, she drew it back quickly and leaned away from him, trying to keep the look of horror she knew had to be on her face as concealed as possible.

“My dear cousin,” he began in a slightly higher than normal voice. “I offer you my hand and anxiously await your answer.”

She gulped audibly. “Ah Mr. Collins, I thank you for the honor of your proposals, but I cannot accept them.”

Mr. Collins, already prepared to congratulate himself on the success of his offer, merely just looked at her. Elizabeth rose quickly and put some distance between herself and the now silent parson.

“My dear cousin, surely you jest. You must be attempting to increase my love by suspense, as is usual of your sex. I am not dissuaded, however. You will see reason after speaking with your father.”

“Indeed sir,” Elizabeth began, her voice laced with annoyance. “I assure you, I was quite serious in my refusal. We would not be happy, and I have no wish for such a marriage. I do thank you for your proposals, but I cannot accept them!”

Mr. Collins shook his head and began to move around the table, his hand emphasizing his words, “my dear cousin Elizabeth, I will not be dissuaded. Surely you must see, by accepting me means your sisters can remain at Longbourn after your dear father leaves this world. Would you want them turned out? The chance of such an offer might never come your way again. In addition, your sisters may not receive such an offer.”

By the end of his statement, Elizabeth, under much distress of the gentleman's words, had already left the room in search of her father. She knocked rather loudly on the door and entered without waiting for his response.

“Elizabeth! My child, whatever is the matter?” Mr. Bennet exclaimed, rising from chair to take her arm and lead her to the settee.

“Oh Papa, Mr. Collins has made me an offer of marriage!”

The shock shown on Mr. Bennet's face was great as she continued, “he waved off my refusal, as if I were trying to increase his love by suspense! I have never heard of such a thing!”

“Oh Lizzy, my dear Lizzy I am sorry. I shall speak with Mr. Collins and assure him you were truthful in your refusal. Now, run along and assist Jane with preparations for tonight's supper.”

Elizabeth left the library, staying clear of the parlour where Mr. Collins could be heard speaking with Mary and went upstairs to her bedchamber. She sank down on her bed and began to cry at the absurdity of the situation.

“Lizzy?” Jane softly knocked and looked around the door, becoming alarmed. “What is the matter!”

“Oh Jane!” She cried as Jane sat down next to her. “Mr. Collins has made an offer of marriage to me, and I refused him, and he insisted I was not serious and sought to increase his love by suspense! Have you heard of such a thing?”

Jane put her arms around her sister while she sobbed. “Lizzy, Papa will not make you marry him, surely you know that. And besides, Charlotte Lucas has invited our cousin to dine with them this evening, and perhaps he has already left for Lucas Lodge.” She wiped the tears from her eyes and smoothed her hair back. “Let us prepare for this evening, and our guests. You want to look your best for the Colonel, don't you Lizzy?”

Elizabeth knew she was teasing, but she still blushed, “Jane, do not tease me so!” She paused, thinking on what her sister had said, “what do you think are his intentions Jane? Papa said much the same after he left earlier, but I cannot see that his attentions to me are any different than anyone else. And after Mr. Collins' proposal, I do not think I wish for anyone's attentions.”

“Oh Lizzy, I think Colonel Fitzwilliam likes you very well indeed. Do not let Mr. Collins dissuade you from ever finding love! The Colonel is nothing like our cousin, and what of your feelings for him?”

“He is an amiable gentleman, very polite and kind. I do like him, but when in his presence, I tend to sound like a simpleton! And besides, I have nothing to bring to such a match!”

Jane laughed. “Oh Lizzy, I think you like him more than you would care to admit! Do not forget I was there the day the regiment rode through town.”


Later that evening...

Elizabeth sat behind the pianoforte with Mary, practicing one of her favorite pieces, Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 14, her father's favorite as well. Mr. Bennet was very proud of his lovely daughters, and tonight was no exception. Even Mary, who rarely applied herself in regards to her appearance looked her best this evening. Jane looked lovely as always, the powder blue gown complimenting her eyes perfectly, but it was Elizabeth who he felt was truly stunning. After the incident with the Earl, and with the exception of parties, she rarely applied herself either. Tonight was different, he mused, she wore a lovely pale green gown and the pearls that belonged to her mother, and the effect was absolutely stunning. He knew it was Jane's influence, for after his conversation with Elizabeth regarding Mr. Collins' proposal, he bade Jane to make Elizabeth as beautiful as possible this evening to boost her confidence, which had been sorely lacking the past few days. Her hair was pulled slightly to the side in a rather attractive style, and several curled locks floated over her left shoulder most becomingly. He was anxious to see the Colonel's reaction, as he felt for certain the young man would be soon asking permission to call regularly. While he did approve of the gentleman, he was concerned of his position as an Army officer, and did not want to see Elizabeth hurt. But, he made his favorite daughter smile, and he would be forever in his debt for that alone. Therefore, he decided he would leave the decision up to Elizabeth, if the young man ever decided to ask.

As Elizabeth began the second movement of the piece, Mr. Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam and other officers arrived, along with Mrs. Forester, quietly taking seats in the parlour as to not disrupt the performance. Mr. Bennet watched the Colonel carefully, as he had scarcely taken his eyes off Elizabeth since he entered the room. As Elizabeth began the third movement, presto agitato, her true talent began to shine. Elizabeth was a most accomplished player, and while Mr. Bennet never hesitated to boast of his daughter's talent, it not necessary this evening.

Colonel Fitzwilliam watched as Elizabeth played the pianoforte, unaware that he was being closely observed by her father. She was beautiful, her shawl draped down around her elbows, and her hair coming down one side of her neck, leaving the other deliciously bare. He knew he would have to work hard to keep himself in check this evening, and wondered how he would accomplish this feat. She seemed to have a mystical air about her, one that he was becoming enchanted with. Knowing he was falling for her, he warned himself against becoming too attached to her, but at the same time his heart rebelled. All his reasons not to become attached to her where now a distant memory and he knew he was irrevocably hers, regardless of situation.

When Elizabeth finished the piece, she was startled by the round of applause she received, and looked up to see Mr. Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Lieutenant-Colonel Beau Roberts, Major Liam Smith, all the from the Army regiment, and Colonel Forester and his wife from the militia smiling back at her. She thanked them, a blush creeping up her neck. Thankfully Jane rescued her, saying it was time for supper.

Let it never be said that Jane Bennet was not a most thoughtful hostess, as she had put much thought into the seating arrangements this evening. She placed Mr. Bingley to her left, while Elizabeth sat to her father's right, directly across from Colonel Fitzwilliam. Next to Elizabeth she placed Major Smith, then Mary, and then Lieutenant-Colonel Roberts. Jane debated for quite sometime about putting the flirtatious Mrs. Forester next to Colonel Fitzwilliam, but she hoped that the lady would control herself as her husband was sitting next to her. Unfortunately she was wrong.

Mrs. Forester, who was the same age as Elizabeth, flirted with every handsome officer she came into contact with, and tonight was no exception. She discreetly smiled her thanks to Jane for placing her next to the dashing Colonel Fitzwilliam, who up until now had not paid her a bit of attention.

“Colonel Fitzwilliam, isn't Miss Elizabeth quite talented?” Mrs. Forester asked, placing her hand on his arm and casting a smug glance towards Elizabeth.

The Colonel turned from his conversation with Mr. Bennet and looked at hand on his arm, then to the lady to whom it belonged with a blank stare. “Why yes, Miss Elizabeth is quite talented. I've had the privilege of turning pages for her, and she is quite accomplished.”

“Really!” Mrs. Forester cried with excitement. “Well then, you must turn my pages this evening! I'm sure you are up to the task.” She gave his arm a squeeze, much to Elizabeth's amusement. From her vantage point she could see Colonel Fitzwilliam was clearly uncomfortable with her attentions and was quite uneasy. Putting her napkin up to her mouth, she stifled the laugh that threatened to come forth, much to the mirth of Mr. Bennet. He was happy to see his daughter was amused, for he had worried about her spirits after the disaster with Mr. Collins.

“And where is Mr. Collins this evening, sir?” Colonel Fitzwilliam asked Mr. Bennet. Elizabeth's face quickly fell and she stared at her plate, her countenance becoming quite flushed.

“He is dining with the the Lucas family this evening.” Mr. Bennet replied, mindful of Elizabeth's distress. He quickly changed the subject. “Pray, tell me Mrs. Forester, are you quite accomplished at the pianoforte? What composer do you enjoy playing?” Mr. Bennet inquired keenly, drawing a censoring, but thankful look from Elizabeth, whom he ignored.

“Oh, I play them all! What would you enjoy hearing?” She batted her eyes at Mr. Bennet, which drew another barely stifled laugh from Elizabeth. This woman was flirting with her father, in front of her husband! She still had her hand on Colonel Fitzwilliam's arm, and while he was a perfect gentleman, the lady's constant grip made it difficult to finish his meal. Major Smith, who had been listening to the exchange, also found it amusing, drawing a glare from Colonel Fitzwilliam, which only made it harder for Elizabeth not to collapse into hysterics. After the events of the day, this was a welcome diversion! Colonel Fitzwilliam looked across the table at Elizabeth, a faint smile on his lips and a wicked gleam in his eye.

“Mrs. Forester,” Colonel Fitzwilliam began, moving his arm out of her reach. “I'm sure anything you would play would be wonderful. Perhaps Miss Elizabeth will honor us with another performance as well.”

“Thank you Colonel, I shall play just for you, and you must turn the pages for me! We shall let Mr. Bennet pick the music, what do you say Mr. Bennet.” She batted her eyes again, first at Colonel Fitzwilliam, and then at Mr. Bennet, soundly ignoring the comment made about Elizabeth , however could take it no longer.

“Papa, do excuse me for a moment, I must speak with Cook about dessert.” Elizabeth nodded to everyone at the table, and left the room for the kitchen, noticing for the first time that Jane and Bingley were quietly whispering to each other most intimately, much to her pleasure. She walked into the kitchen, promptly bursting out laughing, drawing censor from Hill.

“Miss Elizabeth! You must get back to the dining room! You should not be back here!”

“I'm sorry Hill, but I couldn't endure that woman any longer! She is flirting with Papa, and Colonel Fitzwilliam, all while sitting next to her husband!”

Hill, who had been appalled by the lady's lack of morals earlier, shook her head with a chuckle. “Now, back to dinner with you. You've left your father unprotected!”

Elizabeth laughed again, and wiping the tears from her eyes, she went back into the dining room where to her surprise, her seat had been taken by Mrs. Forester, who was in conversation with Major Smith and her father about music. She quietly slipped into the seat next to Colonel Fitzwilliam.

“Well Colonel, looks like you shall be turning pages again this evening!” She regained her confidence as she winked at him with a smile.

“Yes, so it would seem.” He replied dryly, taking a sip of his wine while leaning back in his chair. “So Miss Elizabeth, shall you play for us again this evening? I know I would enjoy hearing you once again.”

She resisted the urge to make a comment about Mrs. Forester. “You shall, if you wish it. I would not want to disappoint you.” She surprised herself, for she was sitting quite close to him, and spoke rationally.

“Nothing you could do would ever disappoint me Miss Elizabeth.” He said in a soft whisper for only her to hear, making her blush. Thankfully Jane rose from the end of the table, indicating it was time to separate. Elizabeth smiled at Colonel Fitzwilliam sweetly as she rose from her seat and followed Jane to the parlour.

He watched her leave, taking a rather large drink of his wine, much to Mr. Bennet's amusement. He offered brandy to the gentleman, and began to pour each one glass when Mr. Bingley approached him, his nerves apparent.

“Mr. Bennet, may I speak with you privately sometime this evening?”

“If you must Mr. Bingley. Let us have a drink first, then we can retire to my library, will that suffice?”

Mr. Bingley nodded with enthusiasm and took the offered glass of brandy thankfully.

***

The atmosphere in the parlour was quite tense as Mrs. Forester began to lament on the qualities of Colonel Fitzwilliam with great passion, and becoming almost vulgar.

“I never seen a man look quite so handsome in regimentals, wouldn't you agree? And his manners are certainly pleasing…”

Jane blushed as she went on. “And the way he handles his men, how I love to see a man who knows how to use his authority. And on horseback…” She paused here, becoming flush, “he certainly knows how to ride.”

Elizabeth had to interrupt. “Yes, we have all seen him ride many times. Quite accomplished.” This brought a glare from Mrs. Forester while Elizabeth sipped her tea.

“Well, I'm sure he is quite accomplished at many things, other than horse riding.” Mrs. Forester continued, her voice low, making Jane gasp and Mary look up from her sheet music. She had looked directly at Elizabeth with that remark, and Elizabeth could feel her defenses rising to the occasion.

“I would imagine he is a fine swordsman as well, most cavalry officers are.” Replied Elizabeth with a cool tone. She would not enter in to such an improper conversation with this woman, for she dared not call her lady.

“I was not speaking of sword play…” Her statement was cut short by the entrance of the gentlemen into the parlour.

“Sword play, are we speaking of sword play?” Colonel Fitzwilliam asked with interest upon entering the room. By the looks on Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth's face, he thought not.

“Why yes Colonel we were! We were discussing how talented the regiment is in sword play, truly a magnificent sight.” Mrs. Forester replied, her tone now sickening sweet.

Elizabeth nearly choked on her tea, which brought Jane to her side immediately. They shared a look as Jane took her teacup away. Jane turned to face the officers, who were quite confused.

“Let us have some music then! Mary, do play that piece you were playing earlier, it was quite lovely! Major, would care to turn the pages for Mary?” The Major happily accepted, and Jane set about making the two of the comfortable while Colonel Fitzwilliam sat down next to Elizabeth.

“Are you alright Miss Elizabeth?”

Elizabeth coughed slightly, the tea still burning her throat. “I am well, thank you Colonel.”

He held her gaze for what felt like an eternity to Elizabeth. “May I ask why Mrs. Forester was speaking of sword play? She has never seen the regiment practice to my knowledge.”

“Indeed.” She replied, casting a dark look in her direction. Mrs. Forester was now flirting with Lieutenant-Colonel Roberts, who stood by stiffly. “I brought up sword play Colonel, as it was the safest topic of conversation at the time.”

He smirked. “Safe topic of conversation? Pray, tell me what is a more dangerous topic than sword play?”

“Oh, do not trouble yourself worrying about what we ladies speak of while you gentlemen are off drinking your brandy. It would not interest you in the slightest.” She had hoped this would put him off the subject entirely, but he persisted.

“I am highly curious as to why gently bred ladies, such as you, are speaking of sword play.”

She sighed, how was she to answer this? And why did she now have the image of the Colonel and his…sword, coming quite close to her. Elizabeth continued, feeling her voice shake slightly. “Well, Mrs. Forester was speaking of the skills of the regiment. And as I do not have the knowledge that she possesses of the talents of your officers, I simply suggested the regiment must be talented in sword play, as most cavalry regiments are I would imagine.” She hoped he got the meaning of her implied message, and it would seem that he did, for he turned to look at Mrs. Forester, who was still flirting with Lieutenant-Colonel Roberts while Colonel Forester spoke with Mr. Bennet and Mr. Bingley.

“I see. I gather her topic of conversation was not at all appropriate?”

Elizabeth hesitated before answering, for the lady had not spoken of anything she had not already thought herself of the handsome Colonel sitting next to her. “No, not at all. I simply tried to lead her elsewhere.” Please do not ask about swordplay again, I shall not endure it!

Mary had finished her piece, and Elizabeth and Colonel Fitzwilliam applauded along with the rest of the party. Mrs. Forester, without anyone asking, placed herself at the pianoforte and chose a piece to play.

“Colonel Fitzwilliam, I believe you promised to turn the pages for me.” She called to him with an air of lewdness.

He sighed and rose from his seat, Elizabeth feeling quite sorry for him. She watched as he sat down as far as possible from her, his long arms still able to reach the pages. Mrs. Forester was talented, in technical way, Elizabeth thought as she played Mozart's Piano Sonata No. 5. The Colonel looked miserable, his face set in a stern expression that made Elizabeth want to smooth out the creases his frown created with her hands.

“Lizzy, what did you say to the Colonel?” Jane sat down next to her, leaving Mr. Bingley for a moment.

“I very discreetly told him her conversation was inappropriate, without telling him what was exactly said. I did not wish to embarrass him, but Jane...” She paused, lowering her voice to a whisper, “She said nothing that I hadn't already thought to myself, well maybe not in those vulgar terms…”

Jane patted her hand affectionately. “It is natural to feel that way Lizzy, do not think yourself any less for it. I have had improper thoughts of Mr. Bingley,” she blushed deeply before continuing. “he must never know!”

Mrs. Forester completed her piece to polite applause. Jane stood and looked down at her sister fondly. “Now you Lizzy, it's your turn.”

“I would not mind playing again!” Mrs. Forester cried, searching through the music to find another piece. Colonel Fitzwilliam leaned back in his chair with an amused smirk at the lady's antics. The panicked look on her face told Elizabeth that she could find nothing that suited her, as Elizabeth had purchased some of the more difficult sonatas, the others were in the library, but she wasn't going to divulge that secret. With defeat Mrs. Forester rose from the bench.

“Well, I don't see anything I know. You certainly have interesting taste in music Miss Elizabeth.”

“Thank you Mrs. Forester.” She replied coolly on her way to the pianoforte where Colonel Fitzwilliam was smiling up at her. Turning to her right, she saw her father watching with interest.

“What should you like to hear Papa?”

“Play Mozart Lizzy, any one will do.”

Elizabeth nodded and sat down at the instrument. She flipped through the pages silently, feeling the Colonel's burning gaze on her, but willing herself to calm down. While she was usually not competitive, the last few days had brought this trait out in her and she felt it was important to perform well for her guests. She chose the second and third movement of Piano Sonata No 11, the first movement being quite long, and she did not wish to bore everyone.

“Are you ready Colonel?”

He nodded, her inquiry startling him from his silent gaze upon her. He moved his chair closer and leaned forward, much closer than he was to Mrs. Forester. She began to play the gentle melody, much to her father's delight. Mrs. Forester however, was quite rude and persisted on flirting with Major Smith, who seemed quite uncomfortable, and speaking rather loudly, while imbibing on too much wine. Elizabeth and Colonel Fitzwilliam noticed this and she quietly shook her head as she played.

“Poor Colonel Forester, such a lady to be married to!”

The Colonel nodded in agreement, keeping his comments to himself. Luckily Elizabeth had begun the third movement, so he concentrated on keeping up with her. She played perfectly, he thought, much better than Mrs. Forester or Miss Bingley for that matter, the latter having played this piece at the Netherfield Ball last evening. Her playing had portrayed the depth of her emotions, which endeared her to him all the more. Elizabeth finished playing, much to everyone's enthusiastic applause, with the exception of Mrs. Forester. The evening continued much the same, Mary playing again, as did Elizabeth. When the end of the evening drew near, Mrs. Forester, who had drunk too much wine, had to be helped to the carriage by her husband and Major Smith.

Elizabeth followed Jane out into the cool night air as their guests began to depart, raising her eyes to see the stars twinkling in the black sky above. She took a deep breath, letting the cool air refresh her lungs and her spirit. While she was happy to see Mrs. Forester take her leave, she was loath to part from the Colonel's company.

Colonel Fitzwilliam noticed Elizabeth looking up at the stars, and as he stood beside her, he too looked up. “What do you see Miss Elizabeth?” He asked softly.

“Stars Colonel, lots of stars.”

He chuckled softly at her answer. “Beautiful, aren't they?”

“Quite.” She replied, feeling his gaze on her. Their eyes met in the darkness and he smiled at her.

“Thank you for the pleasant evening.”

“You are quite welcome!” Elizabeth answered. The officers and Mr. Bingley mounted their horses, as Elizabeth thought back to Mrs. Forester's earlier comments as she watched them ride away in the darkness. He did have a remarkably fine seat on a horse.

Chapter 4 Part II

November 28, 1811
Longbourn
Late Afternoon

“Lizzy, come into my room, I have something I wish to discuss with you.”

Elizabeth, who was still reeling from the announcement of Mr. Collins' engagement to Charlotte, followed her father into the library, where he closed the door and offered her a seat. She sat across from him, her curiosity getting the best of her.

“Yes Papa?”

Mr. Bennet looked at his daughter, who had always been his favorite, as they shared the same witty character. “Mr. Bingley has asked to court Jane, and I have given my consent.”

She smiled brightly. “Oh Papa! That is wonderful! She mentioned something about it last evening...”

“Yes, but that is not what I wish to speak with you about. I am concerned my dear, of the attentions that Colonel Fitzwilliam is showing you. Now, I am not accusing you of any impropriety, but I warn you to be on your guard. He may be an honorable gentleman, but he is still a soldier.”

She blinked in shock. “Papa, we've had this discussion! Colonel Fitzwilliam has been most kind to me, and his attentions towards me have not been different than those he has shown to others in the neighborhood. I assure you I am quite safe Papa.”

Mr. Bennet gazed at his daughter with an amused expression. “Lizzy, do not let yourself believe I am indifferent to your feelings for the Colonel either.”

The crimson began at her ears, and spread to her face and neck rapidly. With downcast eyes, she avoided her father's gaze. “Papa…I don't know what I feel for the Colonel, it's all so strange.”

Little did Elizabeth know, her father was well aware of what had transpired at St. James' Court, and in Meryton when the regiment had arrived. He had never been in this position before with Elizabeth, and it made him uneasy. “My dear, I am only warning you to be on guard, for I do not wish to see you injured by him. If you develop feelings for him, and he for you, then if he is truly an honorable gentleman, he will seek my permission to court you. As it is, I am disposed to approve of him, being the cousin of Mr. Darcy and such…”-his tone turned authoritative, “but that approval will be withdrawn if propriety is breached.”

She could feel the heat building inside of her, and the beginnings of angry tears behind her eyes. “Pray tell me Papa, why do you think such an event would take place? Is it me you do not trust?” Elizabeth left her seat and began to pace the room. “I know I am not experienced, as you say when it comes to suitors, but I am no simpleton, sir. I shall not bring shame or ridicule to my family!”

As his intention was not to anger his daughter, he immediately rose and reached for her arm. “Lizzy, come here.” He pulled her into his embrace gently. “My love, I have no reason to fear any shame you might bring, for I know you are too intelligent to fall into such a scheme. I only wished to warn you of the Colonel's intentions. If you welcome them, then it is of no importance. I would not have him impose himself upon you.”

Her anger however, was not so quickly cast aside, and she pulled back from him. “If Colonel Fitzwilliam's intentions are dishonorable, then I shall refuse them immediately. But I assure you, that in my short acquaintance with him, I would scarce believe he would act in such a way.” Turning on her heel, she quit the room, closing the door behind her soundly. Mr. Bennet sat down in the chair she had vacated and closed his eyes. He did not think the Colonel would do anything he would not approve of, but after the actions of that vile Earl, he felt the need to protect her. He knew, however, she had already made up her mind.

Later that Evening
Netherfield Drawing Room

“Charles!” Miss Bingley cried, placing her glass on the table forcefully. “What have you done? Court Jane Bennet? Are you out of your senses?”

“Why no Caroline, I am quite in control of my senses, thank you.” Bingley replied with a glare towards his sister.

“But Jane Bennet? She is lovely, of course, but what of her family, her connections? Why, I hear they hardly have a dowry to speak of!” With a pointed look at her sister, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst giggled.

“What of them Caroline? I see no objection.”

“Mr. Darcy.” Caroline began, rising from her seat and standing next to him. “Please, you must help us make Charles see reason!”

Darcy chuckled slightly, amused that Miss Bingley thought he agreed with her. “Miss Bingley, I think Jane Bennet a delightful lady, and if your brother is fortunate to win her hand, then he will be quite lucky indeed.”

Caroline sighed a dramatic sigh, then with a look towards Mrs. Hurst, and a flirtatious smile, she made her way over to Colonel Fitzwilliam, who was writing a letter to his father before he returned to his regiment. “Colonel, you will agree with me!”

Colonel Fitzwilliam, who had heard about the courtship last night on the way back to Netherfield with Bingley, stared at the parchment that had been sitting in front of him for the last half an hour. Like Bingley, he was also smitten with a Bennet lady, one who sang and played like an angel and had beautiful eyes and porcelain skin. He was quite envious of Bingley and his courtship, for he doubted he would ever have the chance to court the beautiful Miss Elizabeth the way he wanted.

“I'm sorry Miss Bingley, were you addressing me?” He asked, realizing she was looking at him expectantly.

Miss Bingley leaned towards him seductively, which had absolutely no affect on the Colonel, and batted her eyes. “Indeed, do you not think it is a terrible mistake for Charles to court Jane Bennet?”

Colonel Fitzwilliam moved the chair back and stood to tower over Miss Bingley, a look of sadness flashing across his face. “Why no Miss Bingley, I do not think it a terrible mistake. On the contrary, I wish him much happiness.”

Miss Bingley stared up at him in shock, and returned to her seat, defeated. Colonel Fitzwilliam then turned to his cousin with a forced smile. “I afraid I must be returning to the regiment, so I will take my leave. Congratulations Bingley, Jane Bennet is a fine lady.” He moved to shake hands with Bingley and Darcy, and with a chaste kiss on the cheek for Anne and Georgiana, he turned to leave the room before his sad countenance could be interpreted for jealousy.

The next day…

Elizabeth walked the three-mile trip from Lucas Lodge, still reeling from the shock of her best friend Charlotte becoming engaged to her cousin. Oh, she knew Charlotte only wanted a comfortable home and protection, but what about love? Was she to be happy? How on earth could anyone be happy with her odious cousin? She let her thoughts wander as she walked the familiar path towards Longbourn, so much so that the gentleman that came up behind nearly scared her out of her wits.

“Mr. Lucas! You gave me such a fright!” She cried when he dismounted from his horse in front of her.

“Forgive me Miss Elizabeth, for frightening you, it was not my intention.”

Elizabeth eyed him critically, for in all the years of their acquaintance, she had never seen him look so nervous. He began to pace silently in front of her.

“Miss Elizabeth,”- he stopped to turn towards her. “I have hoped, for quite some time that we may have a private conversation.”

She nodded, urging him to continue. “Miss Elizabeth, I know that we had promised that we would never be anything more than friends, but I have come to feel for you a passionate longing, a deep love, that I'm sure will not surprise you.

Elizabeth stood frozen in place, her polite smile fading as he stepped closer to her. “Miss Elizabeth, Lizzy…will you please do me the honor, and consent to become my wife? I fear there is no one in this world that would make me as happy as you could.” He held out a letter towards her, undoubtedly his sentiments in writing. She took the folded parchment and stared at him in shock.

“Mr. Lucas, this is quite unexpected indeed.”

“Is it? Surely you were aware of my feelings for you, as I have made no move to hide them.” He replied, taking another step closer. She instinctively backed away, causing a frown to pass over his face.

Taking a deep breath, she looked into his eyes, hoping to see something, anything that would tell her he was not serious in his proposals, but she did not. “Mr. Lucas, I am deeply honored by your proposal, but I cannot accept. Truly, you must see, while you the greatest of friends to me, I cannot see you in any other way. I am truly sorry.”

Christopher Lucas stared at his one true love for several moments before her words fully took effect. “But Lizzy, I can offer you so much, in addition to my love. You shall grow to love me in time, I know you shall.”

The desperation in his voice broke her heart, and tears began to stream down her face. “I'm so sorry, but I cannot marry you.” She whispered, clutching his letter with shaking hands.

“But, what of our friendship? Does that mean nothing to you?” He replied with bitterness.

“Of course it does! But Mr. Lucas, I cannot marry you, I do not love you, nor shall I ever. You are almost like a brother to me!”

“A brother.” He stated quietly, still staring at her with shock. His sorrow was quickly turning to anger. “I know I am not as dashing as some of the officers now in Meryton, but surely Lizzy, you can't expect any them to make you an offer.”

His accusation hurt, and angry tears continued to stream down her face. “I do not expect an offer from any gentlemen, whether they are a good friend or an officer Mr. Lucas.”

“Well then, let me offer you my sincerest wishes on your health and happiness.” He replied curtly, mounting his horse and kicking him into a gallop, leaving her standing in the lane, his letter still unopened in her hand. Without thinking, she turned to run through the woods, the branches catching on her cloak as she passed by, and the pins coming out of her hair one by one. She ran down the hill, not paying attention to anything or anyone she passed, and kept running until she saw the gate of Longbourn.

***

Unbeknownst to Elizabeth, Longbourn was full of guests that afternoon. Mr. Bingley had come to call with the Darcys and Colonel Fitzwilliam, in the hopes of inviting them to Netherfield for dinner in the following days. The Colonel was disappointed that Elizabeth was not present, but he kept it hidden by speaking with Georgiana and Mary about their favorite composers near the window of the parlour. He was the only one who saw Elizabeth as she ran by the window in her haste to hide in her room.

The sound of running steps could be heard in the hall, and Jane rose from her seat and smiled at everyone. “Ah, that must be my sister. Lizzy?” She walked to the doorway, followed by Anne and Mr. Bennet when she ran inside.

“Lizzy? Whatever is the matter?” Jane exclaimed upon seeing her sister. Her hair was now flowing freely down her back, and she was openly sobbing. Elizabeth looked to her father, then to Anne, and upon hearing more voices coming from the parlour, took Jane's hands pleadingly.

“Please Jane, I wish to be alone. Do not ask me any questions now!” She cried, causing the remaining guests in the parlour to become alarmed and come to the doorway. Elizabeth heard them coming and turned and fled up the stairs, her vision blurred by her tears. Jane looked at her father in alarm, and with a soft apology to her guests, ran up the stairs after her sister, leaving the guests in the foyer to ponder what had happened.

***

“Lizzy?” Jane knocked softly on the door to her sister's chamber, becoming alarmed as the sobs from within became louder. “Lizzy, please let me in. Dearest, please, I am worried.”

With a click, the door opened and Jane quickly entered. Elizabeth was sitting on her bed, sobbing quietly, a letter clutched tightly in her hand. Jane sat down next to her and pulled her into her arms, rocking her gently and smoothing back her hair. “Lizzy, who is that letter from?”

Elizabeth looked up at her sister and then down to the still sealed letter in her hands. “Christopher Lucas.”

Jane gasped and stared at her sister in shock. Such a letter could only mean one thing. She watched as her sister broke open the seal and read the sentiments that Mr. Lucas had written to her.

“Oh Jane, he was so hurt when I refused him! It was so uncomfortable! Then he became most angry and said awful things! Jane, I did nothing to encourage his attentions, did I?”

“No dearest, you did not. He always had a soft spot in his heart for you, and I anticipated this happening. I am so sorry Lizzy, he must have been quite upset.”

Elizabeth nodded, drying her eyes with her handkerchief. “He was Jane, and it most distressing! He is such a good friend, and now I fear we shall never be the same.”

A soft knock on the door startled them, and after Elizabeth bid them enter, Anne cautiously opened the door and looked in, Georgiana standing behind her.

“Lizzy, are you all right? You gave us quite a scare.” Anne said, entering the room. Georgiana hesitated slightly, but at Jane's urging, she came in and sat on the other side of Elizabeth.

“I am well Anne, thank you. I am only distressed by an unfortunate…proposal.” Elizabeth replied, holding out the letter to Anne. Knowing she could trust Anne and Georgiana, she felt safe in allowing her to read the letter from Mr. Lucas.

Anne took the letter and read it slowly, her face betraying her shock. “Oh Lizzy, I'm so sorry. You rejected him, didn't you?”

“I did. I could never marry him, and I could never love him as a wife should. It would not be fair to me or Mr. Lucas, although he is not of that opinion.”

Georgiana embraced Elizabeth warmly and held her hand. “Lizzy, do not despair. You did the right thing in refusing him, for a marriage without love would such a depressing one.”

The ladies looked in shock at Georgiana, who blushed fiercely for her boldness. “Forgive me.” She whispered. Elizabeth patted her hand.

“You are wise beyond your years Georgiana, do not apologize.”

After speaking for a few moments, Anne and Georgiana took their leave, repeating the invitation to dine at Netherfield in five days time. Jane left her sister alone in her room and went back downstairs to bid her visitors goodbye, the sad countenance of Colonel Fitzwilliam etched in her memory as he rode away.

“Jane, what is wrong with Lizzy? Why did she not come down?” Mr. Bennet asked his eldest daughter when their guests had departed.

“Oh Papa, Christopher Lucas proposed to her! She refused him, and he became quite angry with her.”

Mr. Bennet sighed and sat down in a chair near the fireplace. He had a feeling this would happen, and that his Lizzy would refuse him. “You say he was angry? He did not hurt her, did he?”

“No Papa, he did not. He just said some awful things to her.”

“What kind of awful things?” Mr. Bennet inquired, his patience wearing thin.

“She did not say. Do not be angry with her Papa, she would have never been happy with him.”

He patted his daughter's hand as Mary began to play a soft melody on the pianoforte. “I am not angry with her Jane, only concerned is all. What of her feelings for Colonel Fitzwilliam? I hope she is not waiting for him to make her an offer.”

“No Papa, I am not.” Elizabeth said from the doorway. She had changed her gown and splashed some water on her face, making her somewhat presentable. “I would never refuse one man in the hopes that another would make me an offer. I would never presume that Colonel Fitzwilliam would feel anything for me other than friendship.”

“Lizzy, I did not mean it that way. I just want your happiness dear.” Mr. Bennet said, holding out his hand to her. She crossed the room and placed a kiss on his forehead.

“I know Papa, but whatever my feelings are, I would have never anticipated Christopher Lucas making me an offer of marriage. We had always promised to be friends and nothing more.”

“Well my dear, sometimes a man will feel more than he lets on. Not everyone is as obvious as Mr. Bingley.”

“Yes, we cannot all have Jane's good fortune.” -she looked to her sister fondly. “I for one will guard my heart from now on.”

Chapter 5

December 3, 1811
Longbourn
Early Afternoon

The sound of gentle music could be heard as Colonel Fitzwilliam dismounted from his horse and walked to the entrance of Longbourn. He imagined Miss Elizabeth was inside playing the simple melody, one he had heard his sister play so many times before at Matlock. It made him smile, but it also made him miss his family terribly. While his father and brothers were somewhat regular correspondents, his sister and mother wrote weekly, filling him in on all the events of the country, his mother dropping hints here and there of an heiress or two for him to meet. He had no wish for such a marriage, but allowed his mother to scheme, for it was easier than arguing with her. He had hoped to be able to see Miss Elizabeth today, for since her distressed arrival at Longbourn several days earlier, she had not been downstairs to be in company, and he had begun to miss her smile, despite his attempts to resist.

Hill met him at the door a moment later with a slightly saddened look on her face. “I am sorry Colonel, the family is not receiving visitors today.” She looked truly sorry, and he began to become concerned.

“Of course, but might I ask, is everyone well?”

Before Hill could answer, Jane came out of the parlour after hearing someone enter, “Hill, who is it? Oh! Hello Colonel.” She turned to Hill with a pained smile, “It is fine Hill.”

Hill nodded and left them in the foyer, the sound of the music still coming from the parlour. Jane turned to him with sadness behind her blue eyes, “I apologize, Hill was instructed to turn away visitors today.”

“I do not wish to intrude,” The Colonel answered, his concern growing with Jane's pale expression.

Sensing his concern, she sought to comfort him, “we are all well, I assure you,” she paused and directed him over to a settee in the foyer, “this week is somewhat difficult for us. It was five years ago that my mother and sisters died in a carriage accident.”

“Oh,” he replied, having no idea such an event had taken place, “I am very sorry, I was not aware.”

“Please, do not be distressed. You could not have known. It becomes easier with time, for some of us.” She gazed at the door to the parlour with sadness, the pianoforte still being played softly.

“I shall take my leave then,” he said, standing suddenly, his very expression grave.

Jane rose as well, and smiled at him gratefully, “thank you for calling. I will tell Papa and Lizzy you were here. She will be pleased you came to call.”

The Colonel kindly smiled at her sentiment, “thank you Miss Bennet.”

“You are most welcome,” she hesitated, as if wanting to say more, so he looked at her expectantly, “Colonel, I must thank you.”

His puzzled expression made her laugh, “for what Miss Bennet?”

Jane blushed slightly, not sure if she should elaborate, but decided it would not hurt, “If I may speak plainly, sir, and please forgive me for my boldness, it is for making my sister smile again. I do not assume to know your feelings for Lizzy, but let me just say that by making her smile again, I am forever in your debt.”

It was his turn to blush slightly, something that rarely happened, “I know not what to say Miss Bennet.”

“Nothing is necessary, I assure you.”

He nodded to her and took his leave, pondering over her words as he mounted his horse to leave. It made him wonder what had befallen such a beautiful creature that he, of all people, made her smile again. It warmed his heart, but at the same time it made him angry, for he wished to know who had caused her so much pain.

Later that Afternoon
Practice field outside of Meryton

“Colonel Fitzwilliam, sir, what next?”

“Swords Roberts, they desperately need sword training. See to it and I will join you shortly,” he replied, his gaze traveling the distance across the field. A familiar carriage had caught his eye when it had stopped on the hill overlooking the meadow that they used for practice. When the occupants had not exited after several minutes, he turned away and focused on the sorely lacking sword skills of the militia.

***

Elizabeth and Jane, still in the carriage, watched from their vantage point atop the hill as the militia drew their swords. At Jane's urging, she had persuaded her sister to take a ride in the carriage around the village, and asked if she would like to see the practice field. Her sister had been in such a melancholy state since Mr. Lucas's proposal, and with the anniversary of the accident, she felt she had to do something. When being reminded of sword play, for Jane knew her sister to enjoy fencing, Elizabeth quickly agreed and they directed the driver to stop at the field so they could watch. Normally quite a few would be out watching the militia practice with the Army regiment, but as the day was chilly, most had stayed home.

“Lizzy, would you like to get out and see? Perhaps Mrs. Forester is correct about the Colonel and his expertise with a sword.” Her comment was meant in jest, but it made Elizabeth blush profusely.

“Jane!” Elizabeth cried, “you should not say such things!”

Jane eyed her sister with a knowing glance and chuckled with amusement. Sighing, Elizabeth opened the door to the carriage and climbed out, Jane following behind her. They both walked closer as to obtain a better view, and stopped at the crest of the hill. Their driver spread out a thick rug, and they sat down to enjoy the sight of the regiment out-fighting the militia with their swords.

Elizabeth's gaze searched the field until she found Colonel Fitzwilliam. Sword in hand, he was instructing several militia members on the proper techniques of handing the weapon. His hat had been removed, which made his wavy hair ruffled as the wind blew across the open meadow. Elizabeth admitted to herself then that she agreed with all of Mrs. Forester's observations of the Colonel, even some of the improper observations. He was quite handsome, and as he began to demonstrate with another officer, she felt herself become warm watching him.

“Lizzy, you are blushing.”

Elizabeth turned to see the teasing smirk of her sister, “thank you Jane, I am well aware that I am blushing.” She paused, gazing out at the field again. Colonel Fitzwilliam certainly cut a fine figure among his men as he walked through the mass of me. He had an air of authority that was not tainted with pride or arrogance, it showed in his manners with the regiment, and with anyone he met. This alone was not enough to make Elizabeth blush, it was his manner with her, very gentleman-like and kind, and this pleased her immensely, and made her feel special.

Without thinking, she replied softly, “he is quite handsome.” The words from Christopher Lucas assaulted her again suddenly, and she wondered if they had some merit. Was she waiting for something? Was her heart, which she swore to carefully guard, hoping for some kind of offer from Colonel Fitzwilliam? Was Mr. Lucas aware of her feelings more so than herself? Or, was she destined to become an old maid and be governess to her sister's children? Living life alone and watching her elder sister in a joyous marriage? Perhaps one day she would know…

Jane smiled at her sister's dreamy look that turned thoughtful. “Indeed,” Jane replied, thinking it had been a wonderful idea to come to the practice field. In her happiness to see her sister smile, she had missed the slightly saddened look that passed over her sisters' features.

They continued to watch the practice unnoticed, until Major Smith saw them and pointed them out to Colonel Fitzwilliam. As he approached them with a smile, Elizabeth began to panic, her earlier thoughts coming back in a rush. Did he see her feelings as Mr. Lucas did? Was she that transparent? What must he think of her?

“Oh Lord! Jane, he is coming this way!”

Jane patted her hand as they rose to meet the Colonel. He had replaced his sword back in its scabbard, and made a vain attempt at righting his hair. Elizabeth found this gesture quite endearing, as his somewhat ruffled appearance made him that much more appealing. His eyes were bright from the practice and his coat had been unbuttoned during his demonstration. His happy smiled warmed her, and suddenly all of her panicked thoughts vanished in light of his approach. When he arrived before them, Elizabeth held her breath unknowingly, with a soft smile playing on her lips, and her eyes coming to rest on the black cloth tied at his neck.

“Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth! What a pleasant surprise! What brings you out on this cold day?” He greeted them cheerfully, as he was most happy to see Elizabeth after such a long deprivation. Her smiling countenance instantly tugged at his heart, and in vain he tried to push it aside.

Jane took pity on her sister, who was still smiling silently up at the Colonel, “we were passing through and saw your practice. Your regiment is quite talented.”

“As well they should be, for we practice constantly,” he replied proudly. The regiment was his greatest achievement, and they grew more talented every day.

“It shows Colonel,” replied Elizabeth, finally coming out of her silent admiration of him to enter the conversation.

“Thank you. We are finished for the today though, and have a rare afternoon off.”

“Indeed! A well deserved break then?” Jane said with a raised brow, perhaps he would call again later and her sister would agree to see him.

“Yes, I have not had the opportunity to spend much time with my cousins, especially little Rebecca. It will be quite pleasant to spend the evening with them.”

Jane tried not to frown, and was glad when her sister chimed in, “yes, she is quite a beautiful child!” Elizabeth replied fondly, “Anne is convinced she should learn the pianoforte as soon as may be!”

Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed, knowing his cousin Anne was adamant her daughter be accomplished, “yes, I fear Anne will not rest until she is quite accomplished at everything she can be, which is what any parent would wish for their child I would think.”

They spoke a little longer, eventually the cold forcing the ladies back into the carriage. Jane and Elizabeth took their leave, eliciting a promise from the Colonel that he call upon them tomorrow. As they drove away Elizabeth turned in her seat to see Colonel Fitzwilliam staring after their carriage, and saw a look of longing evident on his face. She wondered at his look, but dismissed it just as quickly. From this point on, she would enjoy his company, but not allow herself to hope for anything more. She smiled slightly before turning back around, not realizing the wall she had recently built around her heart had just begun to crumble a bit under his gaze.


December 4, 1811
Longbourn

Sara buttoned the last button on Elizabeth's dark green morning dress and pinned her hair up into a knot while Elizabeth quietly tied several dried flowers together in a bouquet. It was quite early, just before seven o'clock when Elizabeth made her way downstairs to the silent ground floor. Only Hill and Sara were awake, and they met her at the front door of Longbourn, concern clearly on their faces.

“Miss Elizabeth, please, let me wake Rogers to accompany you.” Hill begged, helping her into her black cape.

“No Hill, that is not necessary. I am only walking to the church cemetery. I will not be gone long and will be perfectly safe. Besides, it is much too early for anyone to be about, and I shall be back before I am missed.”

Hill knew she would hear no further argument, and could only hope Mr. Bennet would be down soon. She watched as Elizabeth drew the hood of her cape over her bonnet and pulled on her gloves before walking outside into the cold December morning.

As Elizabeth had done every year, she made her way down the path that led to the church, taking her past the now empty practice field, and to her mother and sister's grave, carrying her bouquet, full of her mother and sister's favorite flowers. The ground was covered in a light frost, causing a bright glare when the sun's rays met the ice and her feet to crunch on the ground. Despite the season, she never had felt the cold. She felt numb, not feeling the biting wind stinging her eyes and cheeks, making them turn red from the crisp air. As she turned the bend, the church came into view and the iron gates to the cemetery beckoned to her as she wound her way around the gravesites of the long dead residents of Hertfordshire. Her mother and sisters were at the back of the cemetery, under a large shady tree, per her father's request. A stone was placed there, the names and dates engraved in the cold stone.

Elizabeth knelt before the stone, running her hand over the names and the delicately carved flower that rested above. Removing her gloves, she placed her bouquet of dried flowers at the base of the stone, reciting a simple prayer as she did so. The guilt of being the only survivor of the horrid accident had threatened to overtake Elizabeth, much to fear of her father and sisters. Slowly she came out of her depression, Mr. Bennet resisting all suggestions that his favorite daughter needed to be in hospital. Jane, her two cousins from Scotland, and their Aunt Gardiner had coaxed Elizabeth from her dark corner of the world. She had come to the realization that it was not her fault her sisters and mother had died, only a cruel twist of fate. Nevertheless, she came the same day every year to the grave, placing her bouquet of flowers by the stone, and quietly telling them she loved and missed them.

She stayed longer this time, telling her mother and sisters of their new friends, and of a certain gentleman that invaded her thoughts quite frequently. Elizabeth knew her Mama would have fawned over Colonel Fitzwilliam, for she loved a redcoat as much as her younger daughters did, and no doubt would have mortified Elizabeth exceedingly. Mama would have been in raptures of Mr. Bingley and his five thousand a year. She also spoke of the two proposals she had received and turned down, knowing this would have thrown her mother into a fit of nerves as well. Tears began to fall as she rose to her feet and placed her hand atop the stone one final time, silently saying goodbye. When turned to leave, an uneasy feeling began to overtake her as she left the churchyard, for she felt as if she was being watched, but a quick look around her told her she was alone. She continued walking, her pace a little quicker, wishing she had listened to Hill earlier when she entreated her to take Rogers with her. The wooded path she walked had never scared her before, and it made her angry that it would now. Not all the highwaymen had been captured, and she realized that in her melancholy state and haste to visit the grave, she had not heeded the warning of her father, or the officers of the regiments. On the other side of the wooded path, the practice field had come alive and she could hear the sharp clang of metal against metal, leaving no doubt that sword practice was underway. Through the bare trees she could see the field full of redcoats and swords glinting in the sunlight. Hurrying onward, she ducked her head to move forward faster when she heard a horse coming up behind her.

Turning slightly, she saw a large black horse and unfamiliar rider coming towards her, closing at a high rate of speed. It was not a soldier, for he was not dressed in regimentals, and a feeling of dread began to spread over her. The horse slowed the closer it came, making her quite nervous. She began to quicken her pace, loosening the bonnet that seemed to choke her, her fear making it difficult for her to think clearly. Sickening laughter could be heard behind her, along with the sound of the horse drawing nearer. Elizabeth crossed the path to the side of the practice field, hoping that an officer would notice and hopefully see the horseman coming towards her.

“Where ya goin', lassie?” The man said rather loudly in a slurred voice, obviously well into his cups. Before she could react, a pair of dirty hands reached down and tried to pull her off the ground and onto the horse. Memories of the Earl flooded her mind and she screamed, twisting and swiping at the man's face, leaving long nail marks down his cheek, and making him yelp in pain. He quickly released her, dropping her to the ground in a heap while his hand came up to cover his bloodied cheek with a muttered oath.


The regiments had gotten an early start that morning, and had been at it for over an hour. The cavalry was always up early, for horses needed to be fed, their hooves and shoes cleaned and checked, their coats brushed and the horse saddled by their riders every day, at the same time. This was drilled by Colonel Fitzwilliam daily, so much in fact that his men could recite his orders every morning with him, much to the Colonel's amusement. Today, though, the militia was off practicing elsewhere, and the cavalry was doing their own sword practice, dueling each other and going through precise drills until they were correctly executed. It was over the sound of sword versus sword, and the chattering of the regiment, that a piercing scream could be heard echoing through the field. Immediately they were silent, everyone listening as the sound of an anguished cry could be heard. In one motion, every soldier's head turned to see a horse at the entrance of the field, the rider grimacing in pain. The sight of a woman running in a black cloak spurred the soldiers into action, each crossing the short distance across the field into the wooded area.

***

Elizabeth, her vision blurred by tears, picked herself up off the ground where the highwayman had dropped her and turned to run into the woods where he would have a difficult time catching her. In her frightened state, she ran towards the practice field, and did not look back to see if the man was following her. Not truly seeing where she was going, she went past a large tree and ran into something solid blocking her path and throwing her backwards.

Strong hands grasped her about her waist and she was quickly steadied. Still not realizing what she had run into, she looked up see a pair of familiar dark blue eyes gazing down at her with concern. She cried out in relief, her hands clutching his arms in fear.

“Colonel Fitzwilliam!”

“Eliz…Miss Elizabeth, what are you doing here? Are you all right?” Colonel Fitzwilliam exclaimed, keeping a tight grip on her waist and all thoughts of propriety leaving his mind. The regiment had heard the laughter of the highwayman, and then Elizabeth's scream come from the road and had rushed to see what was going on.

It was only by chance that Elizabeth ran into Colonel Fitzwilliam, she realized as she looked around the wooded area. The entire regiment was in the woods to capture her attacker. Knowing she was about to break down in tears, she shook her head no and covered her face with her trembling hands.

“Where'd ya go, lassie?” Came the sickening voice from behind her. She opened her mouth to scream again, only for it to be covered by Colonel Fitzwilliam's hand.

“Shh, Lizzy,” he told her softly, surprising himself by using her Christian name. He pulled her behind the large tree, and out of the highwayman's sight. Nodding to Captain Markham to his left, he looked around the right side of the tree to see the very drunk highwayman, trying to lead his horse through the thick wooded area. Elizabeth began to shake violently in front of him at the approach of the man, and without thinking, Colonel Fitzwilliam pulled her into his arms, firmly holding her shoulders against him. His heart skipped a beat in the midst of this when her arms encircled his waist tightly and she buried her head into his chest, sobbing quietly.

Colonel Fitzwilliam knew his regiment had spread out through the woods, and cut off the highwayman's only escape route, but the man, in his drunken state was still able to follow the path that Elizabeth had made through the thick undergrowth. Even with the regiment surrounding them, Colonel Fitzwilliam did not want to take any chances. He gently pulled back from Elizabeth and reached in front of her, his finger to his lips telling her to be silent, and unsheathing the long blade, carefully bringing it between them, her eyes widening as it passed by her face. He calmly placed his left hand on the back of her head and pulled her closer, turning her head from view as he looked around the tree again at the highwayman. The drunken man was just in front of them now, and Colonel Fitzwilliam held is sword in front of him slightly, ready to attack if need be. With a slight nod, Captain Markham and Major Smith, who was to his right, he leapt forward and pulled the man off his horse and threw him to the ground. The Colonel released Elizabeth and walked to the man, who was being held down by his officers as other soldiers advanced, ready to restrain the man if necessary.

With his saber hovering a mere inch from the man's neck in anger, Colonel Fitzwilliam leaned over to come face to face with the man. “Do you make it a habit sir, of trying to capture young ladies?” he spat, his voice laced with hate and his emotions getting the better of him. “I should run you through!”

The man, who was clearly too drunk to give a straight answer slurred in reply; “She's a bonnie lass, ain't she?”

Colonel Fitzwilliam smirked in agreement, “aye, that she is,” he replied, his fist colliding with the man's jaw, knocking him out cold. Muttering an oath and running a hand through his hair in frustration, he ordered the men to haul him away, and with another bark of his voice, he ordered his horse be brought to him, along with Lieutenant-Colonel Roberts. With an irritated sigh and a hand through his hair again, he made his way back around to the tree where he had left Elizabeth.

He found her leaning against the tree, her hands covering her face and her entire body shaking in fear and cold. She lowered her hands at his soft inquiry, and he saw scratches covering her hands from the thick brush she had ran through. Taking her cold hands in his, he turned them over and examined them for any deep cuts or serious injuries. Not finding any, not knowing what else to do to calm her, and at this point not caring what anyone thought, he pulled her back into his arms where she clung to him fiercely. As he waited for his horse, he murmured soothing words into her hair, which seemed to only calm her slightly.

Seeing his horse and his officer coming closer, he pulled back slightly from her, taking her face in his leather-clad hands, raising her face so her eyes would meet his, “I am going to take you back to Longbourn.” She nodded, his gesture having the desired affect of calming her as he wiped the tears that were coming down her face like rain. Her hands came up to cover his, and he laced his fingers with hers with a soft smile.

“Colonel, sir.” They both turned to see his horse, fully saddled, Major Smith and Lieutenant-Colonel Roberts standing by on their mounts. Seeing his cloak still draped over his saddle from earlier that morning, he quickly wrapped it around Elizabeth tightly, hoping it would protect her from the cold more than her thin cloak was. He took the reins from the Major and led Elizabeth to Jupiter's left side, keeping her hand locked into his tightly. She turned to face him, her fear of the great horse long forgotten at the moment. Major Smith made a move to assist him, but Colonel Fitzwilliam waved him off.

“I can manage Major, thank you.” He lifted Elizabeth by her waist to the saddle and mounted behind her, settling her into his lap and placing his right arm firmly around her. At his suggestion, she slid her still trembling arms around his waist as her head rested against his chest heavily. He pulled the cloak tighter around her, trying to protect her for the wind that had just begun to blow forcefully. They rode out of the woods and into the path where the militia was now hauling the drunken man back to town. When Elizabeth saw this, she gasped in fear.

“It's all right, I will not allow him hurt you,” he said to her, tightening his arm around her waist and placing an almost imperceptible kiss in her hair. Turning away from the scene, they rode at a walk back towards Longbourn, the Colonel not wishing to travel any faster so as not to scare Elizabeth any more, and the faster they rode the more wind she would be subjected to. He could still feel her tremble from the cold as well as her fear. If anyone could read his thoughts however, he was immensely enjoying holding her in his arms, despite the circumstances and wished to extend it as long as possible.

Elizabeth, her head still buried in his chest, opened her eyes to see the wooded area around them. The wool of his coat was rough against her cheek, but the warmth radiating from him was quite comforting. She could detect the smell of leather, and if she turned her head slightly, a citrus like spice, so she inhaled deeply, the effect on her senses intoxicating, despite the events of earlier. She raised her head slightly and looked up to her rescuer with a weak smile, “thank you Colonel.”

Not trusting his voice at the moment, he nodded and looked down at her, the anger he had directed at her attacker and the worry for her well-being clearly etched in his features. She immediately felt guilty, for she knew he was angry with her, undoubtedly for interrupting their morning practice and not heeding any of his warnings about the highwaymen. The thought of him being angry with her was too much for her to bear, and she began to sob again uncontrollably.

“I am sorry….I-I did not m-mean to disrupt your p-practice.”

He cursed himself for making her cry again, and without thinking replied, “shh my love, I am not angry with you, only worried for your safety.”

The realization of what he said hit him forcefully and he squeezed his eyes shut tightly and took a deep breath. He had tried in vain to control his feelings for her, and had revealed himself without meaning to. It would seem that the control that he had so carefully reined in for the last few weeks was gone the instant she put her arms around him. He had no clue as to what to do now. As sure as he was in his feelings for her, he was quite unsure of her feelings for him, although if he correctly read what he had seen in her eyes so many times, it gave him hope. He had not been ready, however, to reveal his true feelings for her, even to himself. But, Elizabeth gave no indication of reaction to what he said, so he hoped that she had not heard his slip. She had simply nodded and closed her eyes, her body still trembling and tears still coming down her face.

Elizabeth's head felt quite heavy, and her entire body ached with each step the horse took. At this pace it would take several minutes to reach the house, and the wind began to sting her damp cheeks, causing her to wince slightly and pull the cloak around her tighter. She felt his arm secure her against him when she moved, and realized she felt quite safe in his arms. Not even when the Earl attempted to spirit her off on his horse had she felt the amount of fear she experienced when the highwayman roughly tried to take her. The Colonel's arms held her like a vice, and she leaned into him even more, settling herself against him and relaxing slightly.

It was several minutes later when Longbourn came into view, and along with the house, Jane and Mary, who had just seen their father off to look for Elizabeth. Jane came running up to them, a frightened look on her face.

“Papa just left to find Lizzy. What happened?” Jane cried, fearful for her sister's condition.

“Major, go bring Mr. Bennet back. Which way did he go Miss Bennet?”

“Towards the church, we knew Lizzy went to the graveyard this morning.”

Major Smith nodded and turned his horse towards the church as Colonel Fitzwilliam came to a stop in front of the door. A stable boy quickly came out to take the horse and the Colonel contemplated how to dismount and bring Elizabeth with him. She was still clinging to him tightly, her arms still trembling from fear. He knew she was not going to let go for him to dismount, so he hoped they could get down together without injury.

“Lizzy,” he whispered only so she could hear, “I need you to put your arms around my neck so we can get down.” She obeyed, slowing letting go of his waist and wrapping her arms around his neck tightly, her fear coming back when he let go of her for a moment. Jane and Mary looked on in shock as the Colonel gathered Elizabeth higher in his arms, and swung his right leg up over Jupiter's neck and held on to the mane for balance. Sitting side-saddle now, much to his amusement, he whispered to Elizabeth to hold on, and then jumped down from the tall horse down to the ground.

“I certainly don't do that everyday,” he said as Jane smiled at him gratefully. Elizabeth, who still had not uttered word, clung to his neck with her eyes closed tightly, her fear coming back to paralyze her again. Jane led him into the house and up the stairs to Elizabeth's bedchamber, where he gently laid her down on her bed, still wrapped in his red cloak. Her hands however, were still clenched together, and he chuckled softly.

“It's all right, you can let go, for you are home safe,” he told her, still bent over slightly. Elizabeth's trembling hands slowly unclenched and she let go of his neck. Her hands immediately went to her face and she began to sob again silently. Sara and Hill, who had followed them up the stairs, quickly set out removing the red cape and her own black one as Jane ushered Colonel Fitzwilliam out of the room. He cast a look back to make sure she was all right, and had to be satisfied that she was. Jane led him down the stairs and into the parlour, where Lieutenant-Colonel Roberts was waiting with Mary and Rogers.

“Excuse me, I must see to Lizzy,” Jane said as she reached the door, tears threatening to overtake her serene countenance, “thank you for bringing her back to us.”

Jane turned and ran up the stairs to her sister's bedchamber, before her own fear threatened to overtake her. She knew she had to be strong for her sister, and took a deep breath before entering her room, where Hill was helping Elizabeth out of her green dress that had several tears from the heavy brush in the woods. She sat down next to her, and Elizabeth immediately began to sob uncontrollably.

“Lizzy, tell me what happened! We became so worried when you did not come back right away.” Elizabeth did not answer immediately, she only continued to cry. She felt as if she would never feel safe again anywhere. When she was able, she pulled back from Jane's embrace and wrapped her shawl tighter around her shoulders.

“I was coming back from the church. It felt as if someone was watching me, so I took the path we always walk, the one next to the practice field…” Jane nodded her understanding. “I heard a horse behind me, and saw a man smiling at me. He was not of our acquaintance, and I felt quite uneasy. I began to walk more quickly and he tried to pull me onto his horse!”

Jane winced, knowing this brought back painful memories for them both. Elizabeth continued, “I scratched at him, and I know I screamed. He dropped me and I ran off into the woods and nearly collided with Colonel Fitzwilliam,” she paused here, knowing she should not tell Jane about the Colonel holding her in his arms in his efforts to calm her, “the officers captured the man and they brought me back here.”

She hoped Jane would not ask for more details, for she didn't know quite how to explain them without distressing her sister. Elizabeth was also distressed that the only place she seemed to feel safe was in his arms- what could that mean? Jane seemed satisfied and relieved that her sister was safe, and after gathering the Colonel's cloak from the bed, she left her to lie down and wait for their father to return. As she approached the parlour door, however, she could hear his angry raised voice.

“What do you mean you don't know Colonel? How is it my daughter was gone for so long and all anyone knows is this?”

Jane entered the parlour and quickly sought to calm her father, “Papa, please do not shout so! You will make Lizzy even more upset! She is fine and upstairs waiting for you.”

Mr. Bennet, shaking his head, left the room and could be heard stomping up the stairs. Jane smiled slightly at the officers and cast a grateful glance at Mary, who had been quite distressed at her father's anger. She silently held out the cloak and Colonel Fitzwilliam took it from her with a sigh.

“Miss Bennet, I fear we should take our leave. I have informed Mr. Bennet that if he wishes to speak to the regiment further, we shall be happy to oblige him,” Colonel Fitzwilliam said with a slight sadness in his voice.

“Oh Colonel, please do not worry over my father's words. He is quite protective of Lizzy and is only upset. I do apologize if he has offended you,” Jane told him kindly.

“He has every reason to be upset Miss Bennet, so no apology is necessary. Only know we are happy Miss Elizabeth is home safe.” With a bow, Colonel Fitzwilliam motioned to his officers and they quit the room.

“Jane?” Mary asked, touching her arm slightly, “why did the Colonel look so sad?”

“I believe he cares a great deal for our sister,” Jane replied, watching through the window as the officers rode away, wondering if something else had happed that her sister wasn't telling her, “it must have been exceedingly distressing for him to see Lizzy so frightened. I only hope Papa will hold his temper.”

***

“Lizzy my child, why did you walk to the church alone this morning? Time and time again we warned you against walking alone!”

Elizabeth, having not been on the receiving end of her father's anger in quite some time, began to cry softly. “I am sorry Papa. I only wanted to walk to Mama's grave as always, and did not mean to be gone for so long.”

Mr. Bennet immediately felt guilty and pulled her into his arms. “There now, I am sorry Lizzy. I was quite frightened for you. And I am afraid I was quite angry with the officers.”

Elizabeth rose up suddenly, realizing it was his voice she heard shouting downstairs. “Papa! You must not be angry with the officers! If not for them…”

“I know my dear, and I shall apologize as soon as possible. I am exceedingly grateful to the Colonel and his men.” Mr. Bennet eyed his daughter slightly as the corners of her mouth turned upwards.

“Lizzy, I am going to ask you something, and I want a straight answer from you.”

She nodded, knowing what he was going to ask. “Were any liberties taken by the Colonel, or any of his men for that matter?”

“No Papa, he was very kind and gentlemanlike, as were the other officers. I did ride on his horse with him, as it could not be helped, but we were never alone, so you need not worry.”

“Then I most definitely owe him an apology, for I was rather accusing in my tone towards him.”

“Oh Papa, you did not!” She cried with alarm. “Please Papa, Colonel Fitzwilliam did nothing wrong. I am very grateful to him!”

“I see that now Lizzy. I will find him and apologize then, you rest.” He kissed her forehead gently and left the room.

Elizabeth snuggled down further under the covers, for she felt as if she would never be warm again. She had not really noticed the cold until Colonel Fitzwilliam had deposited her on her bed and left her room. Since that time, she had been quite chilled. In his arms she felt quite safe and warm, something she had never experienced. Her face grew warm at the thought of being so close to him, even while she was safely ensconced in her bed. It made all thoughts of the highwayman vanish from her mind. With a sigh, she closed her eyes, and did not wake until the next morning.

Chapter 6

December 11, 1811

Colonel Fitzwilliam paced the small bedchamber in the barracks of the regiment, highly agitated and full of indecision. For the last three days he had led the militia and his own regiment into several skirmishes with the small band of highwaymen that surrounded the area. The sight of Elizabeth's tear-stained face and trembling hands had provoked him into action, and he had been ruthless, with himself, and with his men. He would not rest until they were all captured, and Elizabeth would once again be able to walk her beloved countryside without fear. This course of action had meant that other than two brief visits to Longbourn, the first to ascertain what charges Mr. Bennet would like brought against the man who attacked his daughter, and the second to confirm to that same gentleman that the criminal had been punished, Colonel Fitzwilliam had not seen Elizabeth since he had carried her up the stairs and to her bed. That memory alone made him flush with longing and the need to be with her was almost unbearable. He knew that she was well, as he had interrogated Anne the last evening about her daily notes to and from Longbourn, but he wanted to see for himself. Having not declared his intentions to Mr. Bennet, any other action other than a polite enquiry after Miss Elizabeth's wellbeing would certainly go against propriety and the astute gentleman would not approve. So, his intelligence came through Anne, who though she had not seen Elizabeth for herself, assured him that Jane's daily notes from Longbourn indicated she was well, and was only feeling the after effects of the chilly weather. Anne and Georgiana were to visit Longbourn that afternoon, and he was to dine with them that evening. Their calling on Longbourn today would undoubtedly put any fears he had to rest over Elizabeth's wellbeing.

His wellbeing was another story, however. Days of riding the wooded areas, searching for, and apprehending the highwaymen had made him irritable and cross, as well as haggard. He wanted to see her, but a quick glance down his person confirmed he was covered in road dust, and not fit to be seen by anyone. Their reunion would have to wait for another day and a part of him was thankful. Throughout the entire ordeal he had been worrying over his words to her as he carried her to Longbourn that day, wondering if she heard him. His emotions had gotten the better of him, and he vowed that he would never let that happen again, not until he had sorted everything out regarding his feelings. He would have to retain his composure around her and be a gentleman above all costs, even if it means distancing himself from her. He could not allow himself to love her unless he could provide for her, which meant a conversation with his father at Christmas.

Longbourn

Jane waited with anticipation at the window of the front parlour to catch a glimpse of the Darcy carriage bearing Anne and Georgiana. The two friends would be calling today for the first time since the incident with the highwayman. The affects of the incident and the cold weather had made Elizabeth ill, and Jane and Mary had spent the last week taking care of a most troublesome patient. Elizabeth disliked being ill, as did anyone, but her resistance to rest made the always sweet Jane almost loose her patience with her younger sibling. The ordeal had left a lasting impression on Elizabeth, and for the first few nights she could not sleep without horrible nightmares waking her, so Jane stayed with her most nights. Several notes had been passed from Netherfield to Longbourn during the week separation, inquiring after the health of Elizabeth and giving encouragement to Jane and Mary.

As Elizabeth sat in the parlour for the first time in a week, waiting to receive their guests with her sisters, she was still trying to make sense out of Colonel Fitzwilliam's actions the morning of her attack. Nothing else had occupied her mind. She had been telling herself he had shown her nothing but the sweetest friendship, but before her dreams had turned into nightmares, she heard him expressing his love for her. Knowing her sub consciousness was likely playing tricks on her, she brushed this aside as just a silly dream. The Colonel had come to call only twice since the incident, both times with his officers and only to speak with Mr. Bennet. Her information, much to her dismay, came from her sisters, and neither had mentioned if Colonel Fitzwilliam inquired after her or not. This lack of knowledge sent her already weary heart into turmoil. While she was still uncertain of her feelings towards him, she knew that no other gentleman affected her like Colonel Fitzwilliam. What did this mean? Was he just being friendly, or was there something else there, hidden under those piercing blue eyes that seemed to read her every thought? Elizabeth did not know, and part of her feared that she was reading too much into his actions and he only saw her as a friend, and no more. She would have to accept what he gave, and hope for the best. But, deep down inside, in the furthest corner of her heart, hope swelled that he might care for her. If not, then she hoped she would not become a burden on her father, for she doubted any suitors would look her way. She had confessed her fears to Jane, but her elder sister waved them off telling her to not think so foolishly. The sound of carriage wheels brought her out of her daydream, signaling Anne and Georgiana's arrival.


December 17, 1811
Netherfield

Elizabeth and Jane smiled at Mr. Bingley as he handed them down from the carriage with a jovial air. Mr. Bennet followed with Mary, and they all went inside the grand house to be greeted by Anne and Mr. Darcy awaiting them in the hall. In a few days the Darcy's were to leave for Derbyshire, and with Miss Bingley and the Hursts returning to London for shopping, Bingley decided to hold a farewell dinner for his friend without his sister's formidable presence.

“My cousin is with Georgiana, they are attempting to convince Rebecca that it is time for bed, for I gave up long ago!” Anne said to Elizabeth as they entered the hall. “You look much better Lizzy, how do you feel?”

“Oh, I am fine, thank you for asking,” she replied with a smile. Elizabeth did not wish for anyone to worry about her. “Although I have not taken any walks alone recently!”

Anne smiled and patted her arm. “I have heard from my cousin that all of the remaining highwaymen have been captured. He saw to this personally after you were attacked.”

Elizabeth started to reply that it would be a comfort to all residents that the men had been apprehended, but was interrupted by her name being called from the stairs.

“Lizzy!”

Anne and Elizabeth turned to see Georgiana coming towards them with a very awake Rebecca Darcy in her arms, and Colonel Fitzwilliam following behind with a good natured scowl on his face.

“Anne, we give up! We tried everything!” Georgiana said fondly, snuggling the little girl against her cheek.

Colonel Fitzwilliam stepped forward and held out his hand to Elizabeth, who put hers in his. He bowed slightly over her hand and softly kissed her fingers. “Good evening Miss Elizabeth.”-He said gently, their eyes meeting over her hand, “I trust you are well?”

“I am, thank you.” She replied warmly, a small shiver coursing through her at his look. Would her reaction to his touch ever cease? He released her hand with a smile.

“Anne, what do you want me to do with Rebecca?” Georgiana asked, accepting Elizabeth's kiss on the cheek in greeting. Anne eyed her daughter fondly, shaking her head. Rebecca raised her head and saw Elizabeth, and immediately reached out for her. Elizabeth smiled and took the child from Georgiana.

“Anne, let me try. My Aunt would always bring my cousins to me when they would not sleep.”

Anne nodded with a relieved smile. “Thank you Lizzy, come, and let us go to the nursery. Georgiana, please tell your brother we will be back shortly.” Georgiana nodded and took her cousin's arm to be led into the drawing room.

Colonel Fitzwilliam looked back over his shoulder at Anne and Elizabeth as they walked upstairs to the nursery, an unfamiliar feeling coming over his heart seeing Elizabeth with his little cousin. The image of her gently singing their dark-haired child to sleep, with her long hair tumbling down over her shoulders as she gazed down upon him or her came unbidden to his mind and thus caused a warmness to come over him unexpectedly. He escorted his cousin into the drawing room, intent on erasing the image of Elizabeth with their child from his mind, despite his heart begging his mind to continue with the fantasy.

A little while later, Anne and Elizabeth returned to the parlour, a happy smile gracing Anne's face.

“Is she asleep?” Mr. Darcy asked his wife with hesitation. He too had tried for hours, to no avail.

“Yes! Lizzy, you must come visit us at Pemberley, for I do not sing as well as you do!” Anne replied, dropping down in a chair across from Jane. “You both must come in the summer, it is so beautiful!”

“Yes it certainly is!” Mr. Bingley exclaimed from the doorway. “Well then, dinner is ready and waiting!”

Elizabeth accepted her father's arm as they followed the others into the dining room.
“Well Lizzy, perhaps you shall become a nursery maid.” Mr. Bennet said softly to his daughter in jest. Elizabeth frowned slightly, then smiled hesitantly.

“Perhaps, since I seem to be destined an old maid!” She whispered quickly. The comment had been made in jest, but deep down Elizabeth knew it could easily become a reality, for she could not be a burden to her father forever. The last few weeks had begun to take their toll on her happy demeanor, and she simply was tired of being strong. It saddened her to think she may live alone for the rest of her life, but she pushed the feeling aside when she walked into the dining room.

The party sat down to a lovely dinner, the talk centering on the Darcys trip back to Derbyshire and the upcoming Christmastide. Jane noticed her sister was unusually quiet, and cast a questioning glance towards her father, who only shrugged. She had seen the whispered conversation between the two, and wondered if her father had unintentionally said something to upset Elizabeth. Dinner progressed, and soon the ladies retired to the drawing room, leaving the gentlemen to talk over brandy and the cigars Bingley had brought out.

“Lizzy, I must thank you again for your help with Rebecca. Really it was extraordinary! She has never fallen asleep so quickly!” Anne gushed as she poured tea for them all.

Jane looked to her sister's reaction and quickly realized what had been troubling her.
“Georgiana, do play for us before the gentlemen join us! I should love to hear the new sonata you have been working on!” Jane cried, intent on speaking with her sister to confirm her suspicions. Georgiana nodded happily and Mary joined her at the instrument to turn the pages.

Jane took her cup of tea from Anne and sat down on the settee next to her sister, causing Elizabeth to glance up quickly.

“Lizzy, what is troubling you?”

“Tis nothing Jane, really.”

“Lizzy, please, do not sport with my intelligence. You are distressed about something!” Jane replied softly as Anne sat down across from them.

Elizabeth looked up at her sister with tear filled eyes and shook her head. “Oh Jane, what if I have made a mistake?”

Anne looked from Jane to Elizabeth, wondering what on earth they could be talking about, but remained silent, awaiting the answer.

Jane set down her cup and took her sister's hand. “What kind of mistake Lizzy? What do you mean?”

She sighed and looked to Anne, who was clearly concerned. Realizing she needed to confide in someone, she set her cup down and looked to her sister and dear friend. “What if I made a mistake by refusing Mr. Lucas? There is no guarantee that any other man will make me an offer, and would not wish to live my life alone, or as a burden to Papa!”

Anne looked at her in shock while Jane simply nodded, her suspicions confirmed. Anne decided she could not let this rest, and had to give her opinion. “Lizzy, you know very well you shall not end an old maid! You are but one and twenty, have not lost your bloom, and catch the eye of several eligible gentlemen!”

“Oh Anne, how lucky you are to be so loved! I only wish for half of your happiness one day!” Elizabeth cried, tears beginning to run down her cheeks. “It is of no matter, for I have little to bring to any match.”

Shaking her head, but remaining silent, Anne could not believe what she was hearing. If she only knew how her cousin felt about her, she would not be so hasty to think the worst! But, she had promised Richard she would not intervene, with the exception of a well-placed push here and there. And now was the time for one.

“Lizzy, I want you to listen to me carefully,”-at her nod, she continued. “You are not destined for spinsterhood, I assure you. In fact, I am positive of this. You have been so wronged in the past that you scarce believe that anyone would look at you as a potential marriage partner. Of the three suitors you have had in your short time, one has been so ungentlemanly that you had to refuse him, one so…well, I won't go on about Mr. Collins, and the other so sure that you would accept him that he chose to hurt you with unkind words when you did not. Truly Lizzy, you must see! Even if you have little to bring to any match, if he loves you, it will not matter to him. These other gentlemen were wrong to have treated you in such a manner, but they are not all the same, you must see this my dear.”

Elizabeth nodded as Jane put her arm around her, squeezing her slightly. They had gone over this conversation several times lately, and Jane was at her wit's end as to what to do for her sister. It seemed Anne was all she had needed to include, for Elizabeth was smiling at her with a look of gratitude.

“Thank you Anne, I hope you are correct. Nevertheless, I shall guard my heart closely regardless.”

Anne nodded, knowing that was all she could hope for. With their departure approaching, she knew it was out of her hands, and could only hope her cousin would not keep his feelings hidden much longer.

“Lizzy, will you not play for us?” Georgiana asked, interrupting their thoughts. Elizabeth nodded and took her place behind the instrument and began to play Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata, drawing a frown from Jane.

“Jane!” Anne began quietly, as the gentlemen could be heard in the hall. “You must do something! She is so sad, you must make her see everything will be all right.”

“I know Anne, but how? Lord Exeter nearly broke her spirit, Mr. Collins, well; she does not miss his attentions in the least. As for Mr. Lucas, I am quite angry with him for his treatment of her. Such a man to claim he is a friend, and then to say such things! It wounded her severely I think, more than she is letting on. She would have never been happy with him, and I know she wishes to marry only for the deepest love. But Anne, I am worried for her, it would take someone truly special to break down her resolve.”

The gentlemen came back into the room then, and Anne cast a knowing glance towards her cousin. “If Richard would only admit to himself that he has so much to give, I'm sure he would beg for her hand! As it is, he is convinced that he does not, but I know he cares deeply for Lizzy, he is just afraid. He was quite distressed when she fell ill.”

Jane nodded quietly, noticing her father looking at her curiously upon hearing Elizabeth's choice of music. “She cares for him a great deal, I know she does. I have seen her reaction to him often enough to see this. But she is convinced he sees her as nothing more than an indifferent acquaintance! Oh Anne, she is quite mistaken, is she not?”

Anne looked across the room to where her cousin was speaking with Mr. Bennet, and casting glances towards the pianoforte. “Yes, she is, I am sure of it. Richard would not toy with her affections; he is too honorable for such nonsense. I believe he is torn between his duty to the Army and his feelings towards her. He is to return to London next week, but will be back before Twelfth Night. I do hope he makes a decision!”

Their conversation would have to end there, for Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley sat down with them, ending all private discourse for the time being. Elizabeth continued to play; slow, melancholy songs that matched her mood while Georgiana and Mary sat on either side of her watching silently. At the same time Colonel Fitzwilliam, watching from across the room, was entranced by her performance and dreaming of a time when such a display could be his to view every evening. Anyone looking in Colonel Fitzwilliam's direction would have seen his faraway look and love burning in his dark blue eyes.

Chapter 7

December 19, 1811
The Red Lion Inn

Colonel Fitzwilliam sat behind the small desk in his room at the inn, staring at a blank piece of parchment, waiting for the proper words to come forth. It was addressed to his father, as he was in need of some advice, and wanted to write to him before he left the area for the Christmas holiday. His decision to apply to Mr. Bennet to court his daughter was easy, but he wanted his father's opinion as well. He knew he could not be happy with any one but Elizabeth, but his lifestyle held him back. In the past when the subject of his inheritance came up, he usually turned a deaf ear as it made him quite uncomfortable. Lately though, he had been thinking more and more on this subject. Besides the estate left to him by his uncle, there was still his inheritance from his Aunt, Lady Anne, as well as Lady Catherine, which would come to him upon his engagement. He was unsure as to the amounts, and really had never inquired. The Army paid him decently, and he had lived off of his pay as a Colonel for so long that when he met Elizabeth, he knew he had to do more, if only to allow her to live in comfort as his wife.

But, he thought, he was getting ahead of himself. While he was sure of his regard and love for her, he was not so certain of her regard for him. Last evening while at Longbourn, she had been most receptive to his attentions after dinner, teasing and laughing along with him. And at the Netherfield ball he thought she was warming to his attentions, if he read her looks correctly. If he could only decipher what he thought he saw in her beautiful eyes as love! It gave him hope as he began to write.

December 19, 1811
Meryton, Hertfordshire

Dear Sir,

I hope this letter finds you and Mama well in Matlock, be assured I am well here. I will be home soon to spend Christmas with you and the family, but then will return to my duties shortly thereafter. As I write to you this evening, Sir, it is with the hope you will give me some much-needed advice. I have met a lady, a charming beautiful lady in which I hope to court. She is not of our sphere, but that means little to me, as you well know. Her name is Elizabeth Bennet, and she hails from Hertfordshire. Perhaps Anne or Georgiana may have mentioned her? They are great friends and frequent correspondents. Her sister, Miss Jane Bennet is engaged to Bingley. I have come to feel such a regard for her that I have felt towards no other lady before, and know in my heart I could never be happy with another.

My reasons for asking for this advice are simple, for I wish to know exactly what my inheritance consists of, other than Somersby of course. I am aware I am not entitled to this until I announce an engagement, but as I soon hope to enter into a courtship with Miss Elizabeth, I want to ensure that when I do ask for her hand, I will be able to offer her more than just a Colonel's salary. I have no idea of her dowry, and to be honest, it does not concern me. My love for her outweighs any concern over what she may bring to the match. I could not imagine my life without her, for only in her presence do I feel complete. Darcy is also acquainted with her, so you may defer to him if need be. She will be visiting her cousin in Kent in the spring, and if she accepts my suit, I hope to introduce you to her during your stay at Rosings.

I would wish for you not to mention any of this to Mama, for I know you are well aware of what her response will be. I am sure when you meet Miss Elizabeth, you will see why I find myself hopelessly in love with her. It is my hope she can win over Mama, but her opinion will have little affect on me. I only wish for your guidance on this matter. I hope that we can discuss this further when I arrive at Matlock in four days time.

Your faithful son,
Richard

He sealed the letter with the Fitzwilliam crest and rang for the servant to have his letter placed in the outgoing post. It felt as if a weight had been lifted of his shoulders just by writing his missive. Of any man he knew, he trusted his father's opinion the most. He did not need justification of his feelings for Elizabeth, but he wanted to assure he could provide for her as best he could, for he felt she deserved as much. Sighing heavily, he rose from his seat and began to put his belongings in his trunk for the journey back to Derbyshire, and to Matlock for Christmas. While he would prefer to spend this time in Meryton, and possibly with the Bennet's, he owed it to his family to return home.

Later that afternoon…

“Colonel Fitzwilliam, miss.” Hill announced as the man himself stepped into the drawing room at Longbourn. Both Jane and Elizabeth rose to greet one of their favorite guests, and Mr. Bingley also came forward to shake his hand.

“So Fitzwilliam, off to the wilds of Derbyshire?” Bingley asked as the group was seated. “It will be a cold ride!”

The Colonel nodded as he accepted a cup of tea from Mary, “yes, it will be.”

“So, you leave in the morning then, Colonel?” Elizabeth asked quietly, hoping she masked the sadness in her voice. While unsure of her feelings towards the gentleman, was still saddened to see him leave.

“Yes, quite early, I am afraid, which is why I came this afternoon to take my leave, and to thank you all for you generous hospitality over the past months, not only to me, but the entire regiment.”

“Why Colonel,” began Jane, “you make it sound as if you have no intention to return to Meryton!”

The Colonel blushed slightly and smiled, “I will return sometime after the New Year, but I am not sure when. The thank you was well overdue. I have had a splendid time in Hertfordshire, and eagerly anticipate returning.” His gaze involuntarily rested on Elizabeth, who returned his look with a smile of her own.

Mr. Bennet joined their group eventually, and they continued chatting for several hours before Colonel Fitzwilliam realized it was time to take his leave so the Bennets could dine. As there were still many things left for him to accomplish before riding to Matlock in the morning, he had to decline their invitation to stay for the meal, no matter how much he wanted to stay. His host understood, and the entire group saw him to the door, with good wishes on his journey.

Elizabeth strayed behind her sisters somewhat, hoping she could spend a brief moment alone with the Colonel to wish him a safe trip, and to hand him a letter addressed to Anne. As Colonel Fitzwilliam bid them all farewell and walked through the door, Elizabeth quietly stepped past Jane and slipped through the still-open doorway. Without her shawl, the cold air seeped through the thin fabric of her gown, causing her to shiver slightly. Elizabeth pushed this aside with her determination and walked outside. She caught him just as the stable boy handed him the reins to his horse.

“Colonel?”

He spun around to see Elizabeth standing in the doorway, her arms wrapped around herself, obviously cold. “Miss Elizabeth! You will catch cold out here!”

She nodded and stepped towards him, brushing off his concern with a slight smile. “I wanted to wish you a safe journey, and to ask if you could deliver a letter to Anne for me. I am afraid I have been rather tardy in replying to her latest letter, and wanted her to receive it before the holiday.”

Colonel Fitzwilliam nodded and reached out for the letter that Elizabeth held towards him. While taking the letter, he reached for her other hand and pulled her to within arms reach. “I would be honored to deliver your letter, Miss Elizabeth.” He bowed over hand placing a gentle kiss on her skin as he pressed it slightly, wanting to do more, but knowing he should not. The blush that rose on her face indicated to him that he had not gone too far, and would have to be satisfied with a simple kiss on the hand.

“Thank you, Colonel.” Elizabeth replied softly as he stood upright before her. Her hand dropped back to her side as he turned from her to mount his horse, realizing it could be quite some time before she saw him again. With a feeling of melancholy drifting over her, she lifted her shimmering eyes to him, “have a safe journey.”

Pushing aside the forceful need to jump down and pull her into his arms, he smiled down at her and tipped his hat, “thank you, Miss Elizabeth. I hope you and your family have a pleasant Christmas.”

Elizabeth nodded, and watched as he turned his horse and trotted down the lane towards the gate. When he reached the road, he turned back slightly and waved his hand in farewell, to which Elizabeth did the same, and he disappeared from sight. She stood in her place, finally allowing the tears that she was holding back to form in her eyes. Her feelings were very confusing to her, and as she walked back into the house, brushing the tears off her face, she knew that he had worked his way into her heart. She had yet to admit this to herself, however. But, the wall she had built was still standing, and she refused to let it fall. If Colonel Fitzwilliam was interested in more than friendship with her then she would hear him out, and then make a decision. Until then, the wall remained intact, her heart guarded, and her feelings in check. If there was nothing to the kindness of the Colonel, then she would indeed end up an old maid, tending to Jane's children. That thought saddened her even more, but she would accept her fate if that was the path chosen for her.

When she entered the house, she excused herself from the drawing room, claiming a headache. Firmly locking the door behind her she laid down on the bed and let the tears fall freely.

December 26, 1811
Boxing Day
Longbourn

Mr. Bennet smiled as he watched Jane, Bingley, Hill and Rogers spin around in a reel, laughing the entire way. Boxing Day was always celebrated at Longbourn a bit differently than at the other estates. With so few servants, Mr. Bennet could afford to be more generous this time of year. Along with gifts, the Bennets always invited the servants to their evening meal, in which the Bennet sisters assisted in preparing, and then into the drawing room afterwards to partake of a little punch and some dancing. It was a small gesture, but one that was appreciated by all. It was an unspoken truth that the servants of Longbourn, and the residents of the house were closer than most. The lines were clear between servant and master, but each knew one depended on the other in the most personal of ways. Hill became much more than a housekeeper after the death of Mrs. Bennet, and accepted her role quietly and with pleasure. Rogers looked out after the young ladies when Mr. Bennet was away, or escorted them to town on occasion, and Sarah was often drawn into late night chats with the girls when her chores were complete.

Elizabeth, usually lively and chatting with everyone on this night, was quiet and withdrawn. She was not rude, and did attend when someone spoke to her, but all noticed her dark mood. Even with the joyous news of Mr. Bingley proposing to Jane did little to lift her spirits. Her mood only darkened after receiving a reply from Anne the day before Christmas, where she learned that it may be some time before the Colonel returned to this part of the country, because of another assignment from his General. She had hoped to see him at the Twelfth Night ball, but it looked as though that would not happen. The last few weeks had been quiet around Meryton, and without the daily calls from Colonel Fitzwilliam and his officers, Elizabeth found her spirits quite low for this time of year. Normally not a selfish creature, she was finding herself cursing the General and jealous of Anne who had spent several days with the Colonel when he stayed with them. It would seem as though whatever feelings the Colonel might have had for her would have to be pushed aside for his duties, and while this disappointed her, she would never begrudge his duties. She hoped when he did finally return to the area, things would be clearer between them.

Matlock

Colonel Fitzwilliam sat in the familiar library of his ancestral home, wishing he were somewhere else. He had been waiting for this conversation with his father for days now, and the time had finally presented itself. He watched as his father read over his letter again and then looked at up him with a hesitant smile.

“Your mother will not approve.”

“I know.”

Lord Matlock scratched his chin thoughtfully and leaned back in his chair. “Well my son, you have never asked about your inheritance before, and your concerns do you credit. What worries me is when you mention she is not of our sphere. She isn't some serving girl, is she?”

Colonel Fitzwilliam sighed and rose from his seat to pace the room to dispel his anger, “no, father. She is a lady, and has been presented at court. What I mean to say is that she is not from a wealthy family. Longbourn is a small estate, and I have no doubt that Mr. Bennet takes care of it like he should. She has none of the connections that my mother would wish for, and I do not care.”

“Richard, please sit down. You mistake my meaning.”

After his son was seated before him again, the Earl went over and poured himself and his youngest son a brandy. “What I meant was I am worried about your mother's reaction. As I have never met this girl, I must rely on your description of her. Although, my fears are lessened when you say she is friends with Anne and Georgiana.”

They both listened to the clock chime the hour, immersed in their own thoughts for a time. “You asked about your inheritance, I assume because you intend to offer for her?”

“I intend to court her first, sir.”

Lord Matlock sniggered, “what have you been doing all these months then? If I was Mr. Bennet, I would be quite surprised if you turned up asking for permission to court!”

“El-Miss Elizabeth deserves to be courted properly. She has had some unfavorable suitors that have cared little for her feelings.”

The Earl nodded, still a little bemused, but he kept silent. His normally jovial son had been moody since he had returned home, and now he realized it was because he was missing his Miss Elizabeth. He saw that his son was in love, although he may not see it himself yet.

“Well, you are already in possession of Somersby, thanks to your uncle. Catherine also has made provisions for you to live comfortably while still earning your salary. Have you checked on Somersby recently?”

“No sir. I planned on stopping by there before I returned to London.”

“Well, you will be quite surprised. You left Darcy to care for the place while you were in Spain, and since your return the steward your cousin hired has been most effective. It has become a profitable little estate over the last few years. You will not be disappointed. I do not have the exact figures here, but the income has risen by at least one thousand pounds.”

To say the Colonel was shocked would be understatement, but he kept it in check. “Then I am able to provide for a wife then?”

“Yes, even if she has no dowry to speak of, you are able to provide for one. It would be easier if she had some sort….” The Earl trailed off, as he noticed his son was not listening any more, and wore the biggest smile he had ever seen cross his features.

Colonel Fitzwilliam left the room a little while later, a spring in his step and a smile still gracing his face, making his blue eyes a little brighter. There were no impediments now, when he returned to Hertfordshire, he would petition Mr. Bennet to formally court Miss Elizabeth. He only hoped that her private farewell meant as much to her as it did to him. It also meant that he had a ball to attend.

Chapter 8

January 6, 1812
Twelfth Night Ball
Meryton Assembly Hall

Early evening- Longbourn…

Jane stood behind her sister, hairbrush in hand, contemplating her next words. Her dearest sister, and best friend was in such a melancholy state that she knew not what to do! Elizabeth was happy with the news of her engagement to Mr. Bingley, which was certain. She knew her sister was sad that Colonel Fitzwilliam had left the area, but Elizabeth was not aware that the aforementioned gentleman had returned the day before to perform his hosting duties for the ball. Jane had decided to keep this bit of information to herself, and was determined to help make her sister as beautiful as possible, which only added to Elizabeth's suspicion. It made her almost giggle at the little known feeling of being mischievous.

“Lizzy, I think you should wear your new gown, for it is most becoming,” Jane told her, holding up a bright white gown trimmed with silver ribbon and beadwork.

“I do not know Jane, what about this one?” Elizabeth held before her a light blue gown that she had worn several times. For her part, Elizabeth did not care which gown, for it was not as if anyone there would be paying any attention.

“No, wear this one,” Jane said firmly in a voice that would brook no opposition. With a shocked glance towards her elder sister, Elizabeth nodded and stepped into the beautiful gown. Jane had never spoken to her with such authority before!

Sara and Jane both styled Elizabeth's hair in a vast array of flowers and ribbon, pulling more curls than usual to frame her face and neck. Even Elizabeth had to admit the affect was pleasing, even in her dark mood. And, the smile of her father when all three Bennet sisters came down the stairs proved Jane's effort had not been in vain.

The carriage ride to the ball was quiet, Mr. Bennet realized, the chatter of his daughters usually filled the small equipage, and it worried him. Mary was coming out this season, and this ball was to be her debut into Meryton society, Jane was happily engaged and quite content, and Elizabeth…he just did not know. His favorite daughter it seemed was very distressed over the past month's events. If Mr. Bennet had been a younger man, and had Elizabeth allowed it, two duels would have been fought by now in defense of her honor. The vile Earl first and foremost, and then the disappointing Christopher Lucas. He could not imagine Elizabeth being so upset over refusing Mr. Lucas, and try as he might, she would not tell him what the young man had said that so upset her. The departure of Colonel Fitzwilliam also contributed to her melancholy state, he knew, but Elizabeth would never admit this to him. The officer in question had never hidden his preference for his second eldest daughter, and try as she might, she could not hide her affections. But, nothing had come of it, and his daughter was convinced she was to become an old maid and live at Longbourn for the rest of her life, not that he minded, but he wished for her happiness. And if a cavalry officer made her happy, then he would do nothing to stand in her way. He recalled a conversation with his eldest daughter earlier that day, informing him that the Colonel had returned and would be present at the ball this evening, for his regiment was sharing hosting duties with the militia. It was Jane's idea not to tell Elizabeth, for she wanted her to be surprised. She also told him of the conversation with Anne Darcy about her cousin, and his feelings towards Elizabeth. He hoped they knew what were doing, and he was content to let the ladies work their magic.

The carriage arrived in town and Mr. Bennet proudly handed down his daughters and escorted them into the hall. After divesting of their wraps at the door, and greeting Mr. Bingley who awaited them with his sisters, the group waited in the receiving line to be greeted by their hosts. Elizabeth was pleased with the lengths the militia and Army regiments had gone to for the evening's festivities. She had never seen their hall look more beautiful, and she wondered more than once if her opinion of Mrs. Forester was mistaken, for it truly looked as if a lady had directed the decoration.

“Lizzy?”

Elizabeth turned from her inspection of the hall to look at Jane inquiringly. “Lizzy, have you promised someone the first set yet?”

She eyed her sister critically, as Jane knew full well no one had asked for the first set. “No, I have not.”

“I see,” Jane replied with a knowing smile to Charles, who looked a little uncomfortable. They moved through the long line slowly, and it was several minutes later before they were presented to Colonel and Mrs. Forester. With a warm smile, Elizabeth greeted the mismatched couple and moved on, and much to her shock found herself standing before Colonel Fitzwilliam.

“Good evening Miss Bennet, Bingley…Miss Elizabeth.” She heard him say over her thundering heart beating loudly in her chest. His warm, deep voice floated over her like a warm blanket. No one told her he had returned, and it seemed as if this was the plan all along, for it all fit perfectly. The long discussion Jane had with her father earlier that day, her insistence that she wear her new gown, and the fussing that went on over her hair. Never had her sister been so conniving! What was she thinking?

With a sideways glance at Jane, who was smiling most mischievously towards her, she curtsied as gracefully as her shaking limbs would allow her. “Good evening Colonel Fitzwilliam. I was not aware you had returned. I hope your trip was a safe one.”

The Colonel stood memorized for a moment, his eyes taking in the beauty before him. Realizing she expected some sort of answer, he bowed over her hand and bestowed a soft kiss, keeping her hand in his a little longer than required, as he usually did. “I arrived late yesterday evening. I hope you are well.”

“Quite well, thank you,” Elizabeth replied with a soft smile. Jane's smile grew larger, which prompted Elizabeth to cast a dark look towards her and turn to her father while he greeted the Colonel, ignoring her sister entirely.

“I am sorry Lizzy, I wanted to surprise you,” Jane whispered a moment later when they left the line to enter the hall. Elizabeth took the offered arm of her future brother and cast a glare behind his back at his fiancé.

“Surprise indeed. Jane, how could you! My own sister, plotting against me this entire day!”

“Lizzy, do not be upset with me,” she paused here and hid her smile behind Charles' shoulder, “you should have seen the look of shock on your face.”

“I can imagine, what must he think of me?” She exclaimed mournfully. Elizabeth had momentarily forgotten that Charles stood between them, and she glanced towards him with a frown.

Jane followed her gaze and nodded. “He knows Lizzy, do not worry. And anyway, I am sure Colonel Fitzwilliam was quite pleased to see you.”

With a groan, Elizabeth shook her head. “So Jane, what are you plans for me this evening?”

Before she could answer, Charles turned around to face them. “I feel I am in the way of a most serious conversation. Shall I return later?” He spoke in jest, but his face showed he was being serious and betrayed his discomfort at being between the sisters.

“Oh no! Charles, stay where you are. Right Lizzy?” Jane replied, slipping her hand into his arm. Elizabeth nodded and did the same. “Just a little Twelfth Night humor is all, my dear.”

“Miss Elizabeth?”

Elizabeth turned to see John Lucas standing before her, looking quite handsome and a little nervous. This amused her greatly and she greeted him warmly.

“Master John! I trust you are well this evening? Is Charlotte with you?”

“She is with my future brother awaiting the start of the ball.”

“Wonderful, I long to see her!” Elizabeth replied, releasing Charles' arm and taking the one offered by the younger Lucas son.

Elizabeth allowed Master John to lead her away from her sister slightly, and waited for him to speak. “I was wondering if you would do me the honor of dancing the first with me?” He asked, his nerves were apparent, as he was two years younger than her and was afraid she would think him impertinent.

“I would be delighted!” She replied with a kind smile. He visibly relaxed and stood a little straighter.

“Thank you,” he replied, breathing a sigh of relief. His look turned serious suddenly, and he turned to her again, “Miss Elizabeth, I have to apologize for my brother's behavior towards you.”

This made her stop suddenly and turn to face him quickly, “whatever do you mean?”

He shifted uncomfortably under her gaze and sighed, “I was there that day, when he proposed to you in the woods. I was returning from town on an errand for my father and came upon the both of you. He should not have said those things to you.”

A deep blush came over her at the mention of someone hearing that awful scene, but she could not be angry with Master John, for he was not like his brother. “Do not worry, I am only sorry if I hurt his feelings. It was not my intent.”

“Do not worry over my brother's feelings Miss Elizabeth, his behavior was unpardonable. He is here tonight, and I hope he does not cause you any distress.”

They could see the ball was getting ready to start, and their conversation would have to wait for another time. So with a smile, Master John escorted Elizabeth to their place in the long line and began the dance.

***
Colonel Fitzwilliam stood in complete shock for several minutes within a concealed corner of the room. He had not meant to eavesdrop on the conversation between Master John and Miss Elizabeth, but he had been coming to ask her for the first set. Everything suddenly came together in one swift movement, her panicked state upon returning to the house that day, and her distress the several days following. She had rejected Mr. Lucas, and felt sad for hurting his feelings, it all made such perfect sense. Elizabeth had such a kind and generous nature, that she could not help but be saddened at the loss of their friendship. Then the letter from Anne, scolding him and accusing him of leading her on, which had not been his intent, and then Anne going on to say; Miss Elizabeth could use a friend right now, for she has been used most disagreeably, do be kind to her Richard, she is a beautiful person and only wants to be happy and loved. I would not wish to see her injured again, especially at your hands! If you love her, then show her; do not worry about the rest! He only wanted to be near her, and instead had hurt her by not being honest with her and divulging his true feelings, although he knew his attentions had drawn suspicion. If he thought she would accept him, he would beg for her hand that instant, but instead, in that secluded moment behind the wall, he decided he not stray from his original plan to court her properly, and show her that his intentions were honorable, she deserved this. His father always told him to act in a manner that would secure his happiness, and all he wanted was to make Elizabeth happy with his love.

The first set had been complete for several minutes before he came out from his hiding spot and into the room fully. He spotted her near a window on the far side of the room, standing with her sister Mary and Miss Mariah. With a courage that he did not feel, he strode across the room and came to stand before them. The ladies acknowledged with a nod and waited for him to speak.

“Miss Elizabeth, if you are not otherwise engaged, would you do me honor of dancing the next with me?” The words came out in a nervous rush, and he silently cursed himself for not being able to speak around her coherently.

“I am sorry Colonel, but Mr. Bingley has asked for the next,” she replied. The sadness she beheld in his eyes was too much for her to bear, so she next replied, “but I am not otherwise engaged for any other sets.”

At his happy nod, she smiled warmly up at him, and felt a sense of peace come over her. Yes, she thought, she would enjoy this evening, and make the most of it, regardless if Colonel Fitzwilliam held any particular regard for her. They talked for a little while longer, mostly of his trip to London and Derbyshire, as well as the weather, as neither wanted to broach any other subject deemed unsafe. When Charles came to claim his dance, she took his arm and allowed him to lead her to the floor, but paused suddenly and turned her head slightly to face Colonel Fitzwilliam.

“I'm happy you have returned Colonel,” she told him softly, looking up at him through her lowered lashes. With a small smile she turned and followed her future brother to the floor, leaving a very happy Colonel standing alone, watching her leave.

***
“Thomas, your girls all look very lovely this evening, Miss Elizabeth especially,” Lord Tanner said quietly to his old friend. Lord John Tanner, the Viscount of ____ and his wife Lady Susan had been friends of the Bennet's for several years. Lord Tanner was younger than Mr. Bennet, but the gentleman had been so kind when they arrived in the area that the two immediately became friends.

“Jane is quite content with her fiancé and Mary is looking forward to her presentation in the spring,” Mr. Bennet paused here, not knowing quite what to say about Elizabeth. The Viscount noticed this, and prompted him to continue.

“And what of Elizabeth? I would hardly believe she has not been spoken for as of yet!”

“She has not been, though there have been offers,” Mr. Bennet replied, his lips pursed in slight anger.

“So, she has refused some proposals then? I must say I am not surprised. I am sure they were not worthy of her,” Lord Tanner replied quietly.

“Indeed they were not. First my odious cousin and then Christopher Lucas, that gentleman is lucky I am not a violent man, for after his actions I would have called him out. He upset her greatly, but I cannot find out from her what he said.”

Lord Tanner laughed quietly, “now Thomas, you know Elizabeth would not have allowed this. And, you shall likely never know what he said to her, a girl hardly confides in her father in these matters.”

Mr. Bennet sighed sadly and nodded. “She is convinced she is to become an old maid and live with me at Longbourn forever. I thought an officer might have had some interest in her, but it seems to have come to nothing. I cannot stand to see her so dispirited! But to hear Jane, you would think she has taken to matchmaking!” Mr. Bennet replied with a chuckle. “If Jane and Mrs. Darcy have their way, she will be out of Longbourn not long after Jane is!”

The gentlemen continued speaking among themselves quietly, and Colonel Fitzwilliam was once again shocked into silence. He had been coming over to greet Lord Tanner, who he knew through his father, when the conversation with Mr. Bennet reached him. It would seem in his haste to capture all the highwaymen, and his duties with the regiment, he had unintentionally led Elizabeth to believe he thought of her as nothing more than a common acquaintance! When the entire time she was the center of his thoughts! He would have to remedy this immediately, tonight if possible!

“Colonel Fitzwilliam! What a pleasant surprise!” Lord Tanner exclaimed when seeing the officer draw near.

“Lord Tanner, Sir, it is nice to see you again,” the Colonel replied with a smile. He had always liked Lord Tanner and his wife and enjoyed their acquaintance.

“How are your parents? Your mother still throwing heiresses at you?”

Colonel Fitzwilliam frowned slightly, not wanting Mr. Bennet to think ill of him yet again, “she is, but I fend them off politely. I have no interest in that sort of attachment.”

“Indeed I should think not. So, this is your regiment of cavalry then? I have heard nothing but good of them.”

Mr. Bennet nodded and left the two to their conversation, opting for the refreshment table, and Lord Tanner pulled the son of his old friend aside when Mr. Bennet had departed, his interest in the cavalry gone.

“Fitzwilliam, are you acquainted with Mr. Bennet's daughters?”

“I am. They are all very charming. Miss Bennet is engaged to Mr. Bingley, who is a great friend of Darcy's,” he replied, wondering where this question would lead. He had no idea of the relationship between Mr. Bennet and Lord Tanner.

“Ah yes, Jane. But what of Elizabeth and Mary, do you know them as well?” Lord Tanner asked with a teasing smile. He had seen the stare coming from Colonel Fitzwilliam in Elizabeth's direction and already knew this answer, but wanted to see his reaction.

“Yes, Miss Elizabeth especially. She is…” his voice traveled off, as he could think of no words to describe his feelings for her without revealing everything, and he knew not where to begin.

Lord Tanner nodded knowingly, “she is quite beautiful, is she not? And very charming as well.”

At his silent nod, Lord Tanner continued, “can I correctly assume then that you are the officer that has shown an interest in our dear Lizzy?”

The color rose in Colonel Fitzwilliam's face and before he could reply, Lord Tanner stopped him with a wave of his hand, “I see then. My boy, what are you waiting for? I have known you since you were a child, and she for that matter. She seemed to enjoy your conversation earlier, and I daresay you are quite smitten with her.”

Having his feelings pointed out to him by an old friend of the family made him quite uncomfortable, but Colonel Fitzwilliam remained silent, only nodding in agreement.

“Then, may I suggest you ignore your mother's advice of finding an heiress and see what is right in front of you? The finances will work themselves out, they always do. And besides, contrary to what others may think, including Elizabeth, the girls do have a bit of a dowry.”

If having his feelings pointed out made him uncomfortable, then nothing compared to the discomfort of Elizabeth's dowry being brought to light. “I am not concerned with finances, and wish to marry for love, sir.” he replied firmly.

Lord Tanner noticed his discomfort, and looked at him apologetically. “Forgive me son, I do not wish to pry. Since Susan and myself have no children, we tend to take an interest in other's children. Elizabeth is very dear to me, as you are. It would do my heart good to see you together and happy is all.”

“Thank you sir,” he replied softly, watching as Elizabeth was led into the hall by her younger sister and Miss Mariah. The words from the Viscount had warmed his heart. Lord Tanner noticed the direction of his stare and gave him a slight pat on the back, and then left to find his wife, his work here complete.

***
“Mary, Mariah, what on earth is the matter?” Elizabeth exclaimed as the two all but dragged her out into the hall and away from the ballroom.

“Oh Lizzy, I am so nervous!” Mary replied in a loud whisper, looking around to ensure their privacy.

“Whatever for Mary?”

“Lizzy,” Mary began, her nerves beginning to overtake her, and making her voice tremble, “I am to dance the next with Major Smith!”

Elizabeth laughed aloud at her sister's proclamation and took her hand. “Is this all? Why Mary, do you not like the Major?”

Mary blushed deeply and looked at the floor, “I do like him Lizzy, but to dance with him! What if I forget the steps, or what if I am so clumsy that I trip!”? Mary was becoming quite distressed and began to fan her face quickly while Mariah nodded in agreement, her eyes wide with fear.

“Mariah, are you dancing the next as well?”

Mariah nodded slowly and smiled, “with Captain Markham.”

Elizabeth smiled at the two girls and gave their hands a squeeze. “The Captain is very much the gentleman Mariah, and you shall be pleased. And Mary, so is Major Smith, do not be frightened. It is natural to be apprehensive, as this is your first ball,” Elizabeth paused, seeing her words were having the opposite effect of the one she intended.

“What I mean to say is, all will turn out well.”

Mary and Mariah nodded, trying to believe in Elizabeth's words. “Come then,” Elizabeth said, pulling them towards the door, “I believe the next dance is beginning. I shall stand next to you both, will that make you more confident?”

“Oh Lizzy!” Mary and Mariah exclaimed, hugging her tightly, making Elizabeth laugh.

“Thank you so much!”

“You are very welcome!” Elizabeth replied, seeing that their dance partners were coming towards them. The nervousness of Mary and Mariah had now spread to Elizabeth as Colonel Fitzwilliam approached her, a serious look across his normally happy face. The three officers came before them, bowing politely and leading their partners to the floor. Elizabeth accepted the Colonel's arm and walked with him towards the line.

“Oh Colonel, I promised Mary and Mariah I would stand between them,” she looked up at him with a mischievous smile, “they are quite nervous to be dancing with your officers.”

Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed and patted her hand on his arm, “then so you shall, but I daresay the Captain and the Major are just as nervous!”

Mary and Mariah made it through the set with much grace and elegance, never once missing a step and even smiling at their respective partners now and then. Elizabeth was very proud of them and said as much to Colonel Fitzwilliam when he led her to a seat.

“Miss Elizabeth, have you had a letter from my cousin Anne recently?”

Elizabeth started at this, as she had received a letter from Anne that very same day. “Yes I have, today in fact. She wrote of Rebecca's first Christmas at Pemberley, and invited myself and Mary to Derbyshire this summer.”

“She did, did she? And shall you go?” he asked, hoping her answer would be in the affirmative. If all went well, he too had planned to be at Pemberley in the summer and would very much like to spend his time with her, especially if they became betrothed. Anne had told him of the invitation in his letter, and he desperately hoped she would be there.

“We are unsure as of yet, my Aunt and Uncle will be returning to Scotland and have offered to bring us along, but there are not definite plans at this time.” She was wondering at his questioning, but decided to overlook it for now.

“I see then.” He replied, although actually he did not see. Scotland? “Well, I must say Pemberley is a beautiful estate, as is the country. I grew up there, and hope to return in the summer as well,” Colonel Fitzwilliam replied, hoping he was not being too forward.

“Then perhaps we shall see each other then, that is, if we accept Anne's invitation,” Elizabeth answered, looking down at her folded hands in her lap. She would like nothing more than to spend the summer at Pemberley if he was to be there as well. This was an instance where she cursed propriety!

“Miss Elizabeth,” he began, summoning up his courage. He looked deep into her eyes when she returned his gaze, “I truly hope you decide to come to Pemberley this summer. I would very much like to see you there.”

Elizabeth stared back at the hopeful look in his eyes and smiled slightly, a feeling of warmth coming over her, “I hope so as well.” The smile he gave her made her heart flutter, and all she could do was gaze at him happily.

Their tender moment was interrupted by Christopher Lucas, who had seen their exchange across the room and had begun to move in their direction, intent on breaking up their intimate interlude. In his anger, he decided to ask for the next, regardless of his prior actions towards her. He came to stand before them, clearing his throat slightly. Colonel Fitzwilliam looked up with a frown, wondering who might have been so rude as Elizabeth gasped in shock.

“Miss Elizabeth, would you do me the honor of dancing the next with me?” He held out his hand, anticipating her acceptance.

Elizabeth stared at his hand, knowing that if she did not accept, propriety forbid her from dancing the rest of the evening. Angered at his arrogance, she glared up at him with fiery eyes. “Certainly,” she replied in annoyance. He nodded and she took his outstretched hand, casting an apologetic look towards Colonel Fitzwilliam as she rose from her seat.

The Colonel watched them walk away, feeling the same jealousy he felt the night of the Netherfield ball, but tenfold. It angered him that after she had rejected him, he chose to put her in such a position that she had to accept him. If he had not overheard the conversation earlier between Master John and Elizabeth, he still would not have wanted to see her with him. The man obviously was no gentleman, no matter what his upbringing, and he decided to keep an eye on the couple as the dance began.

Elizabeth moved through the steps of the dance in silence, refusing to speak to her partner, who seemed content to just glare at her. His behavior was unpardonable, and his contemptuous looks even more so.

“Miss Elizabeth, I see you were having a most interesting conversation with Colonel Fitzwilliam earlier,” Mr. Lucas stated with bitterness as he passed her.

“Yes I was.”

“Of what were you speaking?”

She fought the urge to lash out at him, telling him it was none of his business, but decided to be polite, “of Derbyshire, and of the Darcy's estate. Mary and I have been invited there for the summer.”

“I see, and by design so has he.”

“I would not presume it was by design, he is their cousin.”

Mr. Lucas smirked haughtily and gripped her hand tightly, making her wince. “Cousin indeed, he will make sure he is there if you are. Perhaps his was the offer you were waiting for. I was correct, was I not?”

Elizabeth pursed her lips in anger and saw her father's narrowed his gaze on her, his silent stare holding a very real question. She knew if she wished it, her father would come to her aid, but she hoped it would not come to that.

“Mr. Lucas, I have no idea if that is his intent. I would only be happy to see my friends again.”

“Yes, you seem to have risen above your friends here,” he spat angrily; not bothering to lower his voice and drawing glances from the crowd watching the set.

The dance came to an end and they stood facing each other, trading glares. “Mr. Lucas, I am appalled at your accusations! I have not risen above anyone in being friends with Anne Darcy, indeed your sister is a frequent correspondent as well!”

With a curt nod, she turned and left the floor, passing an astonished Jane and Charles as she rushed by. All she wanted was fresh air and to be away from the prying eyes of the residents of Meryton, who had witnessed their argument. With a nod to Lord Tanner, who was standing by the entrance to the balcony, she pushed open the door and walked out onto the balcony, leaning against the cold stone of the building and closing her eyes.

***
Colonel Fitzwilliam had witnessed their dance, and the heated exchanged from the side of the room, his own anger rising steadily. He could not protect Elizabeth without causing a scene, and he had no wish to do such a thing. It would seem however, that Mr. Lucas did not care, as the entire room had seen their argument. He watched as Elizabeth walked swiftly through the crowd and out onto the balcony, and felt himself being pulled in her direction. Just as he placed his hand on the door to join her, a hand on his shoulder stopped him.

“Give her a moment Fitzwilliam,” Lord Tanner said to him firmly, “I will accompany you, for I want to make sure she is well just as you do.”

He nodded in agreement, and stood in silence next to the Viscount, watching the next set get underway. Mr. Bennet, he noticed, was all but glaring at Christopher Lucas across the room, and Colonel Fitzwilliam hoped the older gentleman would not do something foolish and demand satisfaction. After a few minutes, and an amused glance from Lord Tanner, Colonel Fitzwilliam followed the Viscount out onto the balcony.

***
Elizabeth stood with her back against the building, her eyes closed and her hands clenched at her sides, trying to control her anger. How dare he say such things to her, someone who she had previously thought of as a friend! It was quite obvious he was jealous of the attentions Colonel Fitzwilliam was showing her, for she had seen his angry approach, his face full of hatred. She fought hard not to cry, and forcefully smacked her hands against the wall behind her. If she had not have known better, she would have thought him to be well into his cups, but their conversation proved he was quite sober. The cool stone against her back was making her quite chilled, but she remained where she was. She had no wish to face anyone at the moment, fearful of what her response would be when asked about her confrontation. Her temper was usually not quite this short, but Mr. Lucas had provoked her with his accusations, it was like he thought she would breach propriety by going to Pemberley. She was so lost in her own thoughts she did not hear the doors open, or the gentlemen that came to stand before her.

“Elizabeth?”

She opened her eyes slowly, seeing Lord Tanner standing in front of her with a concerned look towards her.

“Child, you shall catch your death out here! Will you not come back inside?” he asked, taking her hand carefully and giving it a squeeze.

“Indeed Miss Elizabeth, it is quite freezing out here!”

Elizabeth turned her head slowly to the left and saw that Colonel Fitzwilliam was standing to her side, leaning casually on the wall. Their eyes met only briefly, but she could see the spark of anger in his and wondered, not for the first time, if Mr. Lucas had been correct in saying she was waiting for something from him. And, she also wondered if he would reveal his feelings this evening.

“Lizzy, come back inside with us, please dear. It would not do for you to become ill,” Lord Tanner told her, tugging on her hand slightly. Elizabeth smiled at his thoughtfulness and shook her head.

“In a moment, I just needed some air is all,” she replied, her voice shaking slightly because of the cold. Pulling her hand from the Viscount, she wrapped her arms around herself in an effort to warm her chilled arms.

Colonel Fitzwilliam straightened slightly and looked down at her with a kind smile, his mind having a battle with his heart. He wanted to dance the supper set with her, so he could sit next to her. He knew this would raise suspicion, standing up with her again so soon after their previous dance, but it mattered not to him. All he could think about was the pleasure of having her company to him for an entire hour.

“If you are not otherwise engaged, would you do me the honor of dancing the next set with me?”

Elizabeth looked up at him in shock. “You do realize the next set is the supper set Colonel?”

“I am aware of this Miss Elizabeth,” he replied nonchalantly.

“And you shall have to sit with me during supper.”

“I am aware of this as well.”

His calm demeanor unnerved her a little, but she pushed it aside. “And you realize this will be our second dance of the evening, and will likely raise suspicion. Although I believe Mr. Lucas has raised enough of a fuss already.” She muttered quietly.

At the Colonel's soft chuckle at her remark, Lord Tanner stepped away and turned towards the town, giving them a slight air of privacy. This was all Colonel Fitzwilliam needed, and he boldly took her hand in his.

“Yes Miss Elizabeth, I know it will raise suspicion, but it would only be our second set of the evening. Does this worry you?”

She eyed him carefully. His face was set in an amusing smirk she had seen so many times that she was not sure if he was teasing her or not. And even in the dim light, she felt his blue eyes piercing her soul. It would seem that any suspicion that would be raised was of little concern to him, and she allowed herself for the first time to hope that he saw her more than just a friend of his cousin.

“I would be honored to dance the supper set with you Colonel.”

He smiled at her and released her hand, casting a quick glance to Lord Tanner, who was trying to act like he was not there. “And shall we hear you sing later?”

Elizabeth bit her lip and looked to the ground. The last thing she wanted to do was sing. “I beg you, please do not ask me to sing. I shall play, but I would rather not sing.”

“As you like. I would enjoy hearing you play again.”

“Then I shall, if that is your wish Colonel.”

Lord Tanner turned back around to them, thinking he had given them ample opportunity. “Well then, it is all settled! Come, I am freezing and I see the supper set is about to get underway.” He ushered them both back inside, drawing curious glances from the room when they entered. Ignoring the looks, Colonel Fitzwilliam took Elizabeth's hand and led her to their place in line next to Jane, who simply turned to her with a question in her blue eyes. With a nod from Elizabeth, Jane was content that she would hear all later, and the supper set began.

A short time later everyone made their way into the seldom-used dining room of the Assembly hall and sat down to a generous meal. Elizabeth was sitting between the Colonel and Charles, so the conversation was lively as they spoke of the upcoming summer and traveling around the country. For a short time, Elizabeth forgot about her argument with Christopher Lucas, and of her fears of never being happy. For an hour, she was most delighted to be receiving the attentions of Colonel Fitzwilliam, and did not care what anyone else thought. She told her father as much when he asked to speak with her outside in the hall.

“Papa, please do not be angry! I am not worried about what anyone thinks.”

Mr. Bennet sighed and shook his head. “My dear, I am not scolding you, but please be careful. Everyone already saw your argument with Lucas, and then you dance again with the Colonel.”

Elizabeth turned away from her father to gaze out the window, “Papa, I did not start the argument with Mr. Lucas, he provoked me. He is most jealous of the attentions Colonel Fitzwilliam pays me, that is the only reason he asked me to dance. And anyway, that was only my second set with Colonel Fitzwilliam!”

“Indeed Thomas, she is right you know,” Lord Tanner said, coming up behind them quietly, “and besides, dancing two dances with a gentleman is not unheard of. Do not worry, everything will turn out well.”

Mr. Bennet nodded and went back into the dining room, an unconvinced look on his face. Elizabeth sighed in resignation and turned towards the Viscount.

“Thank you. I know he is only worried for my well-being, but I am not concerned over the events of this evening.”

Lord Tanner offered her his arm to lead her back into the dining room. “Come, I believe Mary is about to perform, and you do not want to miss it, I know.” She nodded and they walked back into the dining room in silence.

***
Mary made her way slowly to the pianoforte, casting a nervous look about the room. While she had played in company before, this was the first time she had played for a gathering quite this large. Upon sitting down for supper, she had tried to push her fear away, but it was coming back again the closer she came to the instrument. In vain she had looked for her sister, but Elizabeth seemed to be missing from the room. She had watched as she followed her father out into the hall, but he had returned without her. Mary sat down behind the instrument, seeing Jane give her an encouraging smile, but desperately wanting Elizabeth to be there, her mentor. It was when she took a last look to the door before she began to play that she saw Elizabeth standing with Lord Tanner, waiting for her to begin. With a confident smile, she began her piece, Mozart's Sonata No. 11 `Alla Turca'.

Elizabeth watched her sister perform from across the room, her face beaming with pride and love. She had watched her sister work on this piece for weeks, trying to master the difficult passages and play from memory. It would seem her hard work was paying off, as Elizabeth smiled through her happy tears, thinking her mother would be most proud. She had watched her sister grow from a bookish young girl, fighting for attention over her two younger sisters, to the elegant young lady that sat behind the pianoforte, charming her audience with her skill. She was immensely proud of her sister, and it showed. At the end of her performance, after dropping a slight curtsey in recognition of the crowd's applause, Mary rushed pass the tables and into the outstretched arms of her sister, who kissed her cheek and told her she was quite proud of her.

Lord Tanner stood with Elizabeth in the doorway, silently handing her his handkerchief when she began to cry. They had all been through so much, he thought as he watched Mary play, much more than anyone of their age should have to endure. It made his heart swell to see them all so well accomplished. If only Elizabeth could find her happiness with the son of his dear friend, his joy would be complete. He would enlist Lady Tanner to aid him in this, he thought to himself.

The two watched as several other ladies, including Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst, play lively sonatas for the attendees. Lord Tanner and Elizabeth had decided to remain by the door to watch, as Elizabeth hoped they would pass over her and let the ball get underway without having her play. To her regret, however, as soon as Miss Long was finished with her tune, Colonel Fitzwilliam stood and looked towards the back of the room at her, his eyes telling her he had not forgotten his earlier request.

Colonel Forester noticed this as well, “Miss Elizabeth, will you not play for us?”

With a sigh that prompted Lord Tanner to pat her arm in understanding, she nodded and allowed the Viscount to lead her to the front of the room towards the lovely pianoforte. She returned the smile that Colonel Fitzwilliam cast her, and walked by him to her seat to deposit her gloves before she played.

“Miss Eliza, what shall you play?” Miss Bingley snidely asked, leaning closer to the Colonel. “I am most positive it will be Mozart, for I believe that is all she plays!”

Jane watched as her sister gave Miss Bingley a most determined look, then cast an amused glance in her direction. While Jane knew her sister was not competitive, something about Miss Bingley brought this trait out in Elizabeth. She watched as Elizabeth pulled off her gloves and placed them at her now empty place beside the Colonel, and then cast a fiery look towards Miss Bingley.

“My dear Miss Bingley,” Elizabeth exclaimed profoundly, “indeed I do not play only Mozart! Allow me to enlighten you.”

Jane groaned as her sister cast a brilliant smile at Colonel Fitzwilliam, who it would seem was most taken with her, and followed Lord Tanner to the pianoforte. She knew her sister, and when pushed like she had been this evening, would choose to play the most difficult piece she knew, and play it most perfectly.

Elizabeth sat down behind the instrument with a confidence she had been missing for the last month. Her emotions that evening had run the gamut of happiness at the return of Colonel Fitzwilliam, to longing when they spoke of Pemberley, to anger at her argument with Mr. Lucas, and now a fierce desire to give Miss Bingley her comeuppance, in the only way a lady was able. With a smile towards her father, she launched into the fourth movement of Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 1, enjoying the look of surprise it elicited from the overstuffed peacock that was Caroline Bingley.

After Elizabeth's performance, Colonel Forester announced that the order for the rest of the evening had as of this moment been reversed, which brought out a groan from the ladies in the room. This meant that if there was to be anymore dancing, they would be the ones to do the asking.

“Lizzy,” Jane began, casting a warning glance at her sister across the table as they finished their dessert, “do spare me your tricks, please?”

“Whatever could you mean Jane?” Elizabeth asked, casting an innocent look towards her sister. Charles chuckled heartily and Colonel Fitzwilliam patiently waited for an explanation.

“My sister loves Twelfth Night, especially when the order is reversed. She revels in making mischief, and I am usually her target!” Jane explained to the gentlemen.

“Dear Jane, you misrepresent me! Are you still cross with me from last year?”

Jane huffed and crossed her arms over her chest, bringing out a bright laugh from Elizabeth. “No Lizzy, but do be kind to Mary, this is her first ball.”

Not wanting to disappoint her dear sister, Elizabeth wasted no time in paring Mary and Maria Lucas with most all of the officers, knowing they would not ask themselves. For her part, she danced only one more dance, with her father at the start of the second half of their evening, then spent a most amusing evening matching dance partner to dance partner, Colonel Fitzwilliam by her side at all times, and occasionally assisting when needed. Neither one danced again, for they both only wanted to dance with each other, but resisted, for a third dance would most definitely draw suspicion, though it mattered little to them. Before the night was over, Colonel Fitzwilliam was granted permission to call upon Elizabeth the next day, much to the delight of the lady.

Chapter 9

Longbourn
January 7, 1812

Colonel Fitzwilliam followed Hill as she led him to the parlour to be announced, anxious to see Elizabeth again. The ball the night before had been a success in his opinion, and in his officers' minds as well. They teased him mercilessly about dancing two dances with Elizabeth, something he tolerated with good humor.

“Colonel! It is so good of you to call!” Jane exclaimed as he entered the room. He cast a casual glance around the room, and became disappointed when he did not see Elizabeth present. Lady Tanner, Mary and Bingley occupied the room with Jane, and while he knew asking after her would raise even more suspicion, he could not help himself.

“Is Miss Elizabeth not at home Miss Bennet?”

Jane smiled knowingly at Lady Tanner and took his arm. “She is the library with my father and Lord Tanner. Come this way.” She led him to the library door and knocked softly. At hearing her father's soft response to enter, she opened the door and motioned him inside.

“Papa, we have a visitor.”

The room looked empty, with the exception of Lord Tanner sitting near a window reading, and a small feminine hand moving a chess piece across a board that lay between two seats in front of the fireplace. Colonel Fitzwilliam stepped into the room just as Mr. Bennet and Lord Tanner rose from their to seats to greet him. He was decidedly interrupted.

“Checkmate!”

“What?” Mr. Bennet exclaimed in exasperation, looking down at the board. Lord Tanner chuckled softly and went back to his book with a grin. Mr. Bennet sighed realizing his daughter had beaten him again. “Elizabeth, how do you do that? Good afternoon Colonel, you have caught us in the middle of a bit of chess, and I am afraid I have been beaten for the second time today!”

Elizabeth, upon hearing her father's greeting, jumped up from the chair that shielded her from the door and cast a bright smile at their visitor, “Colonel Fitzwilliam, how nice to see you again!”

“Miss Elizabeth, good afternoon,” he replied with a bow, “I hope you are recovered from the ball.”

“Oh yes! It was lovely, even Papa enjoyed himself, did you not Papa?” Elizabeth replied, casting a pointed look towards her father.

“Indeed I did,” Mr. Bennet answered dryly, moving towards his desk for a glass of port, still smarting from being bested again by his daughter at the game her taught her. Seeing an opportunity to keep what was remaining of his dignity, he sat down behind his desk and motioned towards the chessboard, “Colonel, do you play chess?”

“I do, Sir, when I have the opportunity,” he replied, trying to keep himself from staring at Elizabeth. At his answer, she had looked up at him expectantly, which only made him want to gaze down at her longer than was proper.

“Then perhaps you will take my place then, for Bingley has already been bested by my Lizzy and refuses to play her again! And I do believe Lord Tanner prefers his book!”

Elizabeth laughed and sat back down in her chair to arrange the pieces, “I do not know Papa, the Colonel has a military mind, and an advantage I should think in chess.”

Colonel Fitzwilliam chuckled softly and sat down in the chair Mr. Bennet vacated. “Do not fear Miss Elizabeth, Darcy would always win when we were young.” He failed to mention that he usually won now, if they had the time for a match, but he wanted to play her, so he remained silent.

“Well then, let us see, shall we?” Elizabeth replied, moving her white pawn forward two spaces and giving him an inquiring look.

“Very well then,” he answered with a soft smile. “Go easy on me, it has been a while.”

Mr. Bennet laughed from his seat at his desk in amusement and watched while the two began their game, intent on going over his figures again, and keeping a watchful eye on the emotions of his daughter.

***

Jane and Charles came in after Lord and Lady Tanner took their leave, wondering what had happened to their other visitor and bringing in tea for Elizabeth. Jane smiled when she saw Colonel Fitzwilliam playing chess with her sister, their heads were nearly touching and they were talking quietly during their game. Elizabeth's face was bright with her smile and her eyes sparkled with happiness again, and this in turn made Jane happy. She came over to stand next to Charles, who had pulled up a chair by the board to watch the game.

“Check,” Elizabeth stated happily and with no little relief, for her concentration was nearly non-existent with the Colonel sitting across from her, and she was surprised they had gotten this far. His intense looks and charming smile had distracted her from the game constantly, making her have to think more closely on her moves.

Colonel Fitzwilliam, seeing indeed she was right, rested his chin in his hand and pondered the board before him. He made his move, drawing out a sigh from Elizabeth, which made him laugh. This was turning out to be an excellent exercise in control, as sitting across from her in such an intimate setting had pushed him to the limit. He watched as she studied the pieces carefully, her eyes narrowing and her countenance becoming serious. It was not hard for him to imagine him spending many an evening with her in such a manner, in the small but quiet library at Somersby, with her as his wife.

She made her move with a soft smile in his direction. “Check.”

Her voice jolted him out of his daydream, and suddenly his decision was made. He looked up with a startled expression, and then back down again at the board. She was most definitely an excellent chess player, but he saw his chance.

“Checkmate,” he replied softly, not taking his eyes off her and moving his knight to take her Queen. Elizabeth gasped in shock while Charles began to laugh heartily.

“Well Lizzy, it looks like you have finally met your match!” Charles exclaimed.

Elizabeth looked up at the Colonel with a small smile, and noticed what she thought was a longing look in his eyes. Indeed, she had met her match. “So it would seem.”


January 10, 1812
Netherfield

Caroline Bingley put on her most becoming gown and made her way elegantly down the stairs where her guests were waiting for her. She had taken special pains this evening in her dress and hair, for Colonel Fitzwilliam was to be their guest for dinner this evening, and she wished to impress him. Her other guests, the Bennets, she was not concerned with. The Colonel needed to marry for fortune, like most second sons, she reasoned, she found him quite charming and handsome, and her dowry she hoped would raise his opinion of her in his eyes. They had but one dance at the ball, as he spent most of the evening with Miss Eliza, much to her annoyance.

She breezed into the drawing to room to see her brother speaking quietly with his fiancé, who was in Caroline's opinion a dear sweet girl, however unfortunate her relations. The two other Miss Bennets were speaking with Louisa while Mr. Bennet watched from a safe distance away from the ladies. It disappointed Caroline that Colonel Fitzwilliam had not arrived yet to see her entrance, so she would have to be patient and greet her guests before dinner was served.

“You are looking very well Miss Eliza, and you too Miss Mary,” Caroline said, a false smile affixed to her lips. In truth, she did think Miss Eliza's gown was quite pretty and very flattering, but nothing compared to her confection of orange silk and lace.

“Thank you Miss Bingley, you are looking well this evening too,” Elizabeth replied, her eyes drawn to the bobbing feather that protruded from the top of her head. Try as she might, she could not take her eyes off the feather that moved with every word Caroline spoke, and her discomfiture threatened to overwhelm her and make her burst out in laughter.

“I hear that you recently sat for a portrait Eliza, how dreadful for you!” Caroline gushed with false sincerity. She didn't give three straws that Eliza Bennet sat for a portrait!

“Yes, it was quite dreadful, but Papa was pleased,” Elizabeth replied dryly. Caroline Bingley was the last person she wished to speak to, and she was sure the lady cared little about the lovely portrait that as of today was hanging in her father's library. Her unpleasant thoughts were interrupted by the announcement of the last guest.

“Ah! Colonel Fitzwilliam, you have arrived! I am so pleased!” Caroline gushed as she rose from her seat to greet him. Everyone stood to greet the Colonel, Elizabeth smiling brightly at his arrival, for he had not visited them in several days and she missed their conversations and the new found easiness they had found. He made his way over to her and Mary, taking both of their hands and bowing over them.

“Good evening Miss Elizabeth, Miss Mary. I trust you are both well?”

“We are indeed Colonel, thank you,” Elizabeth answered warmly. Her eyes drifted over to Caroline's feather again, as it was headed towards them. She stifled a laugh, which made Mary turn to her and look at her expectantly and the Colonel to raise his brows questionably.

Caroline purposely made her way over to where they were standing and slid her hand around his arm, “my dear Colonel, I have been working on a new piece this week especially for you. Might I convince you to turn the pages for me later?”

Colonel Fitzwilliam held back the sigh that threatened to come forth, his good breeding making him politely smile. “Of course Miss Bingley.”

Elizabeth resisted the urge to pluck the feather out of her head, a feeling of jealousy coming over her. The way Caroline Bingley threw herself at Colonel Fitzwilliam disgusted her, as it was obvious that he did not enjoy her attentions. The lady was quite adamant in her admiration of his person, and at times to the point of becoming vulgar. It was no wonder Anne did not want Georgiana exposed to her for any longer than necessary!

“Excellent! Well, dinner is served!” Caroline replied, taking the Colonel into the dining room, her feather still bobbing along as she spoke. Elizabeth could take it no longer and began to giggle uncontrollably as she watched them walk out the door into the hallway. Her father gave her a glance full of reproach, which only made her laugh harder.

“Lizzy, what is so funny?” Mary asked as she entwined her arm through her sisters'. Mr. Bennet had come to escort them into the dining room, and the three of them were now mostly alone in the parlour.

“It is Miss Bingley's feather!” She said, tears streaming down her cheeks as she laughed. Mary joined her unexpectedly, and Mr. Bennet simply waited until his daughters could compose themselves.

“Are you quite finished?” He asked in mock anger. Mr. Bennet found Miss Bingley ridiculous and rude, an opinion in which he shared with Elizabeth. He could not in good faith chastise them for their amusement, for he found Miss Bingley quite ridiculous.

“Forgive me Papa. It is unkind of me to think in such a way,” Elizabeth answered, wiping the tears from her eyes. After they regained their composure for the most part, they left the parlour for the dining room, Elizabeth pausing once again in a fit of laugher that could be heard in the dining room. They entered quiet and subdued, but when Mary looked at Miss Bingley, she bit her lip and looked down at her plate, holding back her laughter. Elizabeth saw this, and from her seat at the other end of the table, maintained a quiet conversation with Jane and Mr. Bingley, her mirth almost getting the best of her. The dinner continued in this fashion, as Caroline had made sure Colonel Fitzwilliam was seated next to her, so Elizabeth would not have the chance to distract him.

As the ladies departed from the dining room, Mr. Bennet pulled Elizabeth aside before she left. “Lizzy, do try to not become excessively diverted, tis only a feather after all.”

This comment made her laugh, yet again, this time a musical laugh that caught the attention of the Colonel and Mr. Bingley. The two smiled at her, not knowing what she found that was quite so funny. Elizabeth smiled at her father, and with a nod towards the Colonel and Mr. Bingley, she left the dining room to join the ladies in the parlour.

As Elizabeth left, Colonel Fitzwilliam watched her leave with a slight smile on his face. He had not seen her in several days, and he had missed her lovely smile and charming banter. If all went well, he could be a very happy man this evening.

“Mr. Bennet,” he began, causing the older man to glance up from his port, “might I speak with you in private sir?”

At Mr. Bennet's surprised nod, Mr. Bingley instantly perked up and suggested the use of his library for this purpose. The two gentlemen followed Mr. Bingley in silence, and as the door was closed behind them, Mr. Bennet took a seat next to the fire.

“What can I do for you Colonel?”

For the first time ever perhaps, Colonel Fitzwilliam was about to be overcome in a fit of nerves. This was going to be harder for him than he realized, for he wished to make the best impression as possible on the man that may one day might become his father in law. He began to pace, something that was natural for him when nervous or agitated, and it only added to Mr. Bennet's amusement.

“Sir, I asked you here tonight to seek permission to court Miss Elizabeth,” he stopped pacing to look over at Mr. Bennet, who had an amused expression on his face.

“Court my Lizzy? Well, this is a surprise!” He weighed his next words carefully, for while he did approve of the Colonel, it was the life of the army that concerned him, “Colonel, have you spoken with my daughter about this?”

“No sir, I wanted to ask your permission first.”

Mr. Bennet smiled, pleased with that answer, but a little concerned all the same. “I must be honest then, your actions these past few months make me wonder why you are not asking for her hand. It would seem to many that you have been courting her all this time. And, your position with the Army concerns me. I would not like to see my Lizzy left alone or hurt if you are sent elsewhere.” He paused and held his breath before asking his next question, “am I to assume you ask to court for the normal purposes?”

This question made Colonel Fitzwilliam pause, for he had thought this through completely, but the man's questioning was making him wonder if Mr. Bennet truly thought him a gentleman.

“I assure you Sir, my intentions towards Miss Elizabeth are completely honorable. I care for her a great deal. I love her, Sir.”

“Then why the formal courtship, may I ask?”

Colonel Fitzwilliam resumed his pacing, as this conversation was not going as he hoped, “while I am certain of my regard for her, I am not certain of hers for me. I respect her too much to just ask for her hand without a formal courtship. I would not wish to make her uncomfortable if she would not wish to marry me.”

Mr. Bennet's brow rose at this response, thinking of three other gentlemen that had not shown such respect towards his Lizzy. He was pleased and saddened at the same time and sighed in defeat. “And what can you offer her then? I will not mince words here Colonel, she is my favorite; Lord knows I shouldn't have a favorite but I do. I should not like to see her have her heart broken, she has been through enough.”

“I am not without means sir, and believe me, and I have no intention of hurting her.” No, he thought to himself, I would never hurt her, for I love her with every fiber of my being.

Mr. Bennet nodded, as he knew Elizabeth felt strongly towards him as well, but just never admitted to her admiration. “Well then, I propose you speak to her then. I shall give my consent if she does. Does that sound fair enough?”

Colonel Fitzwilliam breathed a sigh of relief, “yes Sir, it does. Might I speak with her this evening?”

“If the opportunity presents itself, then yes you may,” Mr. Bennet answered, enjoying the nervousness coming from the Colonel. “Well then, let us get back to the ladies. I do believe Miss Bingley is most anxious for you to turn the pages for her.”

This comment made the Colonel wince slightly, and prompt him to explain himself, “Sir, believe me when I say Miss Bingley is sadly mistaken if she thinks I have any interest in her whatsoever. I have never given her reason to think so.”

“Well, as with most ladies of her standing, I am sure she assumes you do. It is quite obvious that you do not. Perhaps by now Lizzy has pulled that most amusing feather out of her head and Miss Bingley has retired.”

The Colonel laughed in shock, now realizing that Elizabeth's earlier amusement was the ever-present feathers Miss Bingley insisted on wearing. “One can only hope sir.”

***

After Elizabeth had rejoined the ladies, she quietly seated herself next to Jane and listened as she told her of Mr. Bingley's townhouse in London, which happened to be on the same street as their Aunt and Uncle McCallen's house. Caroline overheard this conversation and decided to join in, despite the annoyed look coming from Elizabeth.

“Yes, the townhouse is on Grosvenor Street, outside of Mayfair. How I miss London! We had hoped Charles would be ready to leave last month, but alas we are still here.”

Elizabeth had the decency to be embarrassed for Caroline at this remark, such an obvious insult to Jane! Her sister though, the polite creature she was; only nodded serenely and smiled at her future sister. Elizabeth however, could not hold her tongue.

“Yes, our Aunt and Uncle have a house on the very same street. It is a nice neighborhood.”

Caroline scoffed silently. “Surely you are mistaken Eliza, I understood your Aunt and Uncle to live in Cheapside.” She pronounced Cheapside in a whisper, not bothering to hide her disgust.

“You are correct Miss Bingley, my Aunt and Uncle Gardiner reside on Gracechurch Street. I was referring to my Aunt and Uncle McCallen, from Scotland, they have a townhouse on Grosvenor Street.”

“I see,” Caroline replied with indignation. Evidently the little chit did have some connections, but not as well sought after as her own. She began her second plan of attack.

“Miss Eliza, it was so dreadful to hear of your encounter with the highwayman in December! Why I could scarce believe the tale!”

Elizabeth eyed Caroline warily, wondering where she was going with this, as it happened well before Christmas. “Yes, it was truly frightening, and I am indebted to the regiment for coming to my aid.”

“Ah yes, the regiment! So, this is the way you attracted attention from Colonel Fitzwilliam,” Caroline replied icily.

“Whatever could you mean Miss Bingley?” Elizabeth asked in a cool tone, the hand that Jane had placed on her arm to settle her having no effect.

Caroline rose from her seat and walked slowly about the room. “What I mean is the Colonel, I am sure did not know you existed until he came to your rescue, luckily for you.”

“I beg your pardon?” Elizabeth replied, her face becoming warm from her anger.

“Well, why else would he grant you any attention? You have only your looks and charm to recommend you. And besides, his family would never accept you. A country girl with little dowry, they expect so much better from him.”

Elizabeth rose from her seat, her face flushed with anger and her eyes full of fire. “Miss Bingley, you seem to be laboring under a misapprehension. I have not sought out his or any other gentlemen's attentions. I am not so vulgar as to flirt shamelessly with any man, regardless of his station or marital status in life.”

Her statement hit a nerve in Caroline, and she became furious. “Come now Miss Eliza, we know this to be a scandalous falsehood!” Caroline replied, her voice rising slightly. “It is well known that you rejected the dear Lord Exeter, for want of a better title, and that you enticed him with your allurements!”

Jane gasped loudly at this attack and Elizabeth felt the sting of angry tears form in her eyes as she clenched her fists in anger. “You are mistaken again Miss Bingley, for I did not lure in his lordship, he sought me out, and was rejected because he was not a gentleman. I have no need or want of a title! If I have gained the attentions of the Colonel, then may I say I am the better for it, for he is certainly more of a gentleman than Lord Exeter!” Her voice had risen as well, and at the sound of quick footsteps outside in the hall, Jane and Mary begged their sister to calm down.

Caroline ignored the pleas from Louisa to lower her voice and continued to shout. “Oh please Eliza, you expect me to believe that! When I first saw you, I knew you looked vaguely familiar, but thought I would have never seen you before. But then it came back to me, one night at ball you danced with Lord Exeter, and then rejected his suit.”

“He was rejected because of his ungentlemanly actions towards me, and for no other reason! He is not a gentleman and deserves no such recommendation!” Elizabeth cried as the door burst open and all four gentlemen entered the parlour in great haste.

The gentlemen stopped abruptly in the door, even Mr. Hurst coming to see what all the commotion was. They filed in slowly, all taking in the scene of Caroline standing a few feet from Elizabeth, her face flushed and a satisfied smile on her face, and Elizabeth, her hands clenched at her sides and her eyes bright with her angry and unshed tears.

It was then that Mr. Bingley saw the distress on Jane's face and turned to his sister angrily. “Caroline, what is the meaning of this? What are you up to?”

“Why Charles, whatever could you mean?” Caroline replied sweetly, casting a seductive smile towards Colonel Fitzwilliam, whose face remained set, and sending a glare towards Elizabeth.

“Excuse me, I believe I am need of some air,” Elizabeth said, her voice laced with anger. She turned and made her way to the balcony, Jane following her with a pleading look towards her father.

Colonel Fitzwilliam had remained in the doorway, shocked by the scene he just witnessed. He knew Caroline Bingley to be spiteful, but had never truly seen her in action. And Elizabeth looked quite upset and ready to fight if provoked again. Recalling her last statement that they heard from the hall, his curiosity rose, wondering whom she was speaking of.

***

Jane held her sister while she cried, hot, angry tears that would not cease. It had been her fear that the actions of Lord Exeter had gotten out, but she never dreamed that of all people, Caroline Bingley would know of them.

“How did she know Jane? What could be her purpose in such a hateful attack!” Elizabeth cried, staring out at the black night from her sister's comforting shoulder. While Jane held her, she realized her hands were stinging, and she opened them to see traces of blood from her nails digging into her palm. She pulled back and held her hands out to Jane, who gasped.

“Lizzy!” Jane cried, examining her hands closely. “It does not look too deep, just scratches, but we must cover them. Let me go back inside to fetch Papa's handkerchief.”

“There is no need Miss Bennet.”

They both whirled around at the soft, deep voice to see Colonel Fitzwilliam standing in the doorway, drawing out a handkerchief from his coat, his mouth turned down in a frown when he saw Elizabeth's tears.

“May I?” he asked, taking Elizabeth's hand in his. She nodded and allowed him to examine her palm, his touch making her slightly dizzy in the cold air. Taking her other hand, he did the same.

“This one seems to be fine Miss Elizabeth, but this one should be covered,” he stated softly. Elizabeth nodded as he wrapped the cloth around her hand gently, Jane looking on with a sweet smile. She shared a look with her sister, and Elizabeth smiled weakly back at her. When he was finished, his hand lingered a little longer than necessary, causing her to make eye contact with him. He then turned her hand over and placed the lightest of kisses on her fingers before letting go. Elizabeth could feel her face turn red but thankfully there was little light on the balcony and her discomposure was well hidden.

“Thank you Colonel,” she said softly, catching her breath and admiring the cloth around her hand, “perhaps if the Army doesn't work out you could be a surgeon?”

With an amused chuckle, he offered his arm to both ladies and led them back inside, “I think the Army needs me more than the medical field. Besides, that was easy, it's the larger wounds I tend to bobble.” The ladies laughed softly as he guided them back into the room. He realized then this would not be the proper time to speak with her about a courtship, much to his regret.

They entered the parlour to find only Mr. Bennet, Mary and Mr. Bingley, the Hursts and Caroline absent. Elizabeth immediately felt guilty and let go of the Colonel's arm to approach Mr. Bingley.

“Mr. Bingley, forgive me for ruining your evening. It was not my intent.”

“No, Miss Elizabeth, no apology is necessary I assure you. Miss Mary informed us of what transpired this evening. Caroline is the one that should apologize.

Elizabeth laughed softly, “I can assure you I will not waste any time waiting on her apology Mr. Bingley, but I am sorry your evening did not go as planned.”

“Come now, it is still early, let us have some music shall we?” Mr. Bingley replied, his usual cheerful demeanor coming back quickly. As Elizabeth could not play with her hand bandaged, she deferred to Mary when asked to play, much to her younger sister's delight. Colonel Fitzwilliam offered to turn her pages, which made her smile even wider. Elizabeth sat down next to her father, who looked at her with an amused expression.

“Well Lizzy, I see your hand has been tended to quite well.”

“Yes Papa, Colonel Fitzwilliam was most kind,” she replied, watching Mary play Beethoven effortlessly.

“Yes, he is a very agreeable gentleman,” he turned to face her and smiled slightly, “Lizzy, there is something I wish to speak with you about later, after we return home, before you retire.”

She nodded in silence and continued to listen to Mary's performance, which had improved drastically over the last several weeks under Elizabeth's influence. It was an hour later that they departed, Mr. Bingley promising to call the next day and the Colonel extending his best wishes for Elizabeth's recovery, so that he might hear her play sometime soon.

The party rode in silence back to Longbourn, the events of the evening weighing heavily on everyone's mind. Elizabeth wondered what her father wanted to speak with her about, but pushed it aside when the house came into view, for she would know soon enough. Mr. Bennet immediately ushered Elizabeth into his library after bidding a hasty goodnight to Jane and Mary. She sat down across from him, curious as to what they would speak of.

“First Lizzy, tell me how of all people, Caroline Bingley would know of Lord Exeter?”

“I have no idea Papa. She only knew I rejected him, for she did not mention anything else. I do not recall meeting her previously, so she must have been at a ball I attended.”

Mr. Bennet nodded, satisfied with her answer. With a gentle smile towards his daughter, he poured a glass of port, “Lizzy, that is not the real reason I wished to speak with you. I had the most interesting conversation with Colonel Fitzwilliam this evening.”

Her brows rose at this statement, wondering what they could have spoken of. When she did not offer a response, he continued. “He has asked permission to court you my dear.”

“Court me?”

“Yes Lizzy! He seems quite besotted with you, as evident this evening,” he looked pointedly at her still bandaged hand, “and his intentions are quite honorable it would seem.”

Elizabeth looked at her father in shock. While she enjoyed the attentions the Colonel paid her, she never let herself read too much into them, fearing for her heart. But, since the Twelfth Night ball, he had been more attentive to her than ever before, and it seemed they had grown closer. Now he had asked to court her, for one reason only. She began to blush profusely, which made her father laugh aloud.

“Papa!” She admonished, “do not laugh at me so! What was your answer?”

“I told him that if you agreed, then he has my permission. I will not sport with your intelligence my dear, for we have had this conversation in the past. His intentions are honorable, he assured me, and I have no reason to think otherwise. I told him I am concerned of his life in the Army, and he understood. So I leave it up to you my dear. If you are willing to accept him, then he may court you with my blessing. I will say however, that out of all your suitors, he is the only one who has shown the respect that you deserve by asking to court you.”

She nodded and rose from her seat, her shock still evident. “Thank you Papa. I will tell you my answer tomorrow, for I think I should retire now.”

Mr. Bennet nodded and rose to bid his daughter goodnight with slight sadness. He watched as she left the room to retire, and then poured another glass of port, pondering the evening's events.

***
Elizabeth lay down in her bed, her mind reeling from the conversation with her father. No one had ever asked to court her before, she thought, wincing slightly as she thought of Mr. Collins and Mr. Lucas. She knew she enjoyed her time with Colonel Fitzwilliam very much, and was quite flattered by his attentions towards her. Closing her eyes, she remembered back to her day at St. James court, and their first meeting, making her blush slightly in the dark. The events since then had been quite diverse, the situation with Lord Exeter, the arrival of Mr. Bingley and the Darcys, the arrival of the militia, then the regiment, and then being introduced to Colonel Fitzwilliam at Netherfield. Since then they had been in company quite often, and she found herself constantly blushing under his gaze it seemed. He was quite handsome, and his pleasing manners made him even more so. For a while he had seemed quite interested in her, but then he stopped calling as frequently, and then left the area at Christmastide. His departure affected her more than she cared to admit. And then, his return for the ball, and his frequency calling at Longbourn since then. It was quite confusing, but if she thought harder on the subject, she could see his affections towards her, especially during their conversation regarding her invitation to Pemberley. But, she reasoned, she knew little of him except that he was Mr. Darcy and Anne's cousin, and that he was from Derbyshire. He spoke of this family sometimes, but not very often, as it seemed he missed them very much. His dedication to the Army frightened her some, what would their courtship be like? Would he ask for her hand, or be sent away to war before he had the chance? Papa had said his intentions were honorable, and that meant marriage.

Caroline Bingley's words from earlier then played out in her mind, about his family not accepting her, they expected better. What did that mean? Who were his family, and why would they not accept her? She knew nothing about his family, except he has a brother and a sister, but she knew no other details. Whenever he spoke of them, it was in general terms, but with much affection. If she were to marry him, she would wish to be close to his family, as he obviously was. A warmth, followed by a deep blush came over her at the thought of marrying him, and what it would be like to become his wife, in every sense of the word. Several hours later, after tossing and turning, nothing would quiet her mind and she fell into a fitful sleep, constantly playing the past few months events in her mind.

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