Circumstances of the Heart

By Katherine

Beginning, Section II

Chapter 1

Posted on Friday, 26 October 2001

"Are we there yet, Lizzy?" Kitty asked impatiently, looking out at the endless miles of shrubbery and green leaves. "I am so longing to see Lydia again."

"As am I, Kitty. I do not believe that it is much further now." Elizabeth replied gently.

"I still can't believe that Papa made her marry ugly old Mr. Collins. Why, he's so ancient!" Kitty exclaimed.

"Ancient or not, he is our brother now, and it would be rude to speak of him in such a way." Elizabeth scolded, but her expression then softened. "I know that he is ugly and vile..."

"Not to mention a pompous, fat boar," Kitty added with a smile, and Elizabeth laughed.

"But, on the bright side, it is a good match. It will ensure that when our father dies, Longbourn will not be lost to the Bennets, and Mama will not have to worry about our family being thrown out to starve," Elizabeth added and Kitty sighed.

"I suppose you are right." Kitty replied glumly. "Oh look, Lizzy! I can see Hunsford!"

"It is a very happily situated house. I suppose I could be very happy living in a house like that, if I didn't have a husband like Mr. Collins." Elizabeth said with a laugh, and Kitty nodded with a huge grin.

Outside, Lydia and Mr. Collins were waiting for the arriving guests, although Elizabeth could see that Lydia was keeping her distance from Mr. Collins as much as she could. Mr. Collins had a sickly sweet look on his face, and his hair, which shone with the light from the sun, was plastered down to his head, making Kitty wonder if he ever washed his hair more than once a year. She asked Elizabeth, who just laughed it off as the carriage stopped in front of the house. Elizabeth and Kitty gingerly stepped out of the carriage, neither of them particularly wanting to spend a month in the company of Mr. Collins, and warmly greeted their youngest sister.

"Kitty! Lizzy! It is so good to see you!" Lydia shouted, scooping them up in a big hug. "It is so good to have some lively female companionship for once! All I have over here is boring old Lady Catherine, and her sickly daughter, Anne! It will be so good to have some lively conversation again! And you will be so delighted, for I have the best news ever!"

"Lydia! How could you speak so lowly of our dear patroness, Lady Catherine de Borough and her dear daughter, the heiress of Rosings Park, Miss Anne de Borough?" Mr. Collins argued angrily, and Lydia just laughed.

"Very easily, for she is exactly as I have described!" Lydia replied, with a giggle and a snort. Mr. Collins did not look exactly pleased, and turned on his heel back to the house with the girls in tow.

"He's always like that. I find that the more I insult Lady Catherine, the less amount of time he wishes to spend with me. If I'm lucky, he'll file for a divorce in a year." Lydia whispered to her sisters, with a small wink and a smile.

"Or he'll drop dead from yelling at you." Kitty added, and Lydia snorted.

"One can hope." Lydia replied, flouncing through the doorway and into the house. After giving the two the grand tour of the house, Lydia, Kitty, and Elizabeth sat down to tea in the home's sitting room. Elizabeth was busy looking around at the room's décor, but Kitty had other things on her mind.

"What was it that you wanted to tell us, Lydia?" Kitty questioned, her eyes wide with curiosity. Lydia just laughed (and snorted).

"Oh yes. You will never believe who is staying at Lady Catherine's for the month!" Lydia asked, and Kitty looked at her in awe, which Elizabeth just rolled her eyes.

"Who?" Kitty whispered in wonder. "Please, tell us!"

"Two very eligible bachelors." Lydia replied, taking a sip of her tea in an attempt to look ladylike. Kitty squealed with delight.

"Who are they," Elizabeth asked calmly.

"They're Lady Catherine nephews, I believe, and I know that they come from very rich families."

"Really! Oh, Lydia, what are they like? Are they handsome? Are they officers?" Kitty exclaimed.

"One of them is a Colonel in the army, although he is not devilishly handsome like Denny and Sanderson are. I do remember hearing that he has an older brother, which does put a dampener on the situation, but he would still be a good catch." Lydia replied calmly, but her eyes sparkled with excitement.

"And the other bachelor?" Kitty almost shouted in suspense.

"Ooo, he's very rich and handsome, and he owns a great estate in Derbyshire! Ooo, if I was not already married, I believe I would be violently in love with the man!" Lydia said dreamily, and Elizabeth rolled her eyes.

"Don't give me that look, Lizzy, for I am sure that you will think as well as I do when you meet him!" Lydia scolded, and Elizabeth just laughed.

"What's he like?" Kitty asked. "The rich one?"

"He's very quiet and reserved, I suppose. He has scarcely spoken two words in all the times I've seen him, although I do suppose that is because the dreadful Lady Catherine does all of the talking." Lydia responded. "Mr. Collins told me that Lady Cat actually thinks that she's going to get him to marry her Anne. I just laughed when he told me that, for she is such a frail, ugly thing that Lady Catherine would have to pay Mr. Darcy a great deal to marry that sickly girl."

"Mr. Darcy! What a very handsome name!" Kitty swooned. "I think I shall like him very much."

"Don't go counting your chickens before they've hatched, Kitty. You may end up not liking the man in the end." Elizabeth warned.

"Oh, but Lizzy! Aren't you the least bit curious of what he's like?" Kitty questioned with a sigh.

"I suppose that I am... a bit." Elizabeth answered. "But I scarce believe that we shall see very much of that party while we are here."

"Oh, we're going to have dinner with them tomorrow! I can hardly believe that I forgot to tell you this!" Lydia replied, smacking her forehead with her hand. "You will be able to meet them after all!"

"How wonderful!" Kitty exclaimed, almost knocking a lamp over in the process. "Besides, it's not every day that we are able to meet someone of such a good family and fortune."

"I suppose." Elizabeth agreed, and then added with a smile. "Mama would be proud."

Chapter 2

Posted on Wednesday, 31 October 2001

Elizabeth would be lying if she had said she was not the least bit curious to meet the illustrious Lady Catherine de Borough, her daughter, Anne, and her two mysterious nephews, who had captivated the heart of Kitty without even meeting him. Kitty had been going on about Mr. Darcy ever since Lydia had told them about him, and Elizabeth was worried that Kitty may not like Mr. Darcy after meeting him. Elizabeth was also curious if this man really was what he seemed to be, for Lydia had made out many men in her lifetime to be handsome, which had turned out in reality to be ugly old sods.

Mr. Collins hurried the girls out of Hunsford very early the next afternoon. Lydia whispered that he was afraid of being late and offending his noble patroness. Mr. Collins overheard her whispers, and quickly scolded Lydia.

"We must not be late, dearest, or Lady Catherine will be at unease." Mr. Collins replied.

"Yes, she'll just have to find someone else to rattle her brains off to for five minutes. Heaven forbid!" Lydia mocked in a high, squeaky voice that made Kitty laugh and Mr. Collins grimace.

"Lydia! If Lady Catherine were to hear you!" Mr. Collins gasped.

"She'd probably ramble on for another four hours on the necessity of obedience in a wife or something silly like that." Lydia retorted. "I swear, that lady has no sense about her."

The conversation went on like this for quite some time, with Mr. Collins trying to better everyone's view of Lady Catherine, while Lydia painted the picture that she was a horrid beast with an ugly daughter. To Elizabeth, it seemed like something out of a fairy tale, and she began to wonder when Cinderella would pop out. Kitty, on the other hand, was very frightened of meeting Lady Catherine, while thrilled with the prospect of meeting two handsome, eligible men (especially Mr. Darcy).

Elizabeth's face must have somehow been a mask of awe, or Mr. Collins was just plain blind. But either way, he looked at Elizabeth and burst out with happiness.

"Ah, my dear sister Elizabeth! I see you have noticed the grandeur and beauty of the elegant estate of my noble patroness, Lady Catherine de Borough. Rosings Park! It is the name of nobility and beauty, of refinement and dignity. Does the name not mirror the fine estate's elegance!" Mr. Collins exclaimed, shrouding the estate with complements and praise. Kitty and Lydia, on the other hand, were trying not to laugh at Mr. Collins' outburst, and Elizabeth couldn't help agreeing.

"Is Lady Catherine de Borough really his noble patroness?" Lydia mocked in a whisper. "You'd hardly have known - it's not like he mentions it every second of the day."

"Aye," Kitty whispered back, as they neared the great estate. Elizabeth did gasp when she finally looked up at it - it was very beautiful and dignified. Elizabeth was sure that she would enjoy living in such an estate, and was quite green with envy at Lady Catherine's daughter for being the heiress of Rosings Park.

The party entered the room, and was shown to the sitting room, where a loud voice boomed at them from a chair near the fireplace.

"So, Mr. Collins! You are finally here! We were quite distressed that something had happened to you, for you are two minutes late!" Lady Catherine boomed towards Mr. Collins, who began wringing his hands fiercely.

"So sorry, my dear Lady Catherine, for causing your distress. But my dear wife's sisters are staying with us, and they were so busy admiring the beauty of your estate's grounds that it slowed our party down," Mr. Collins replied uneasily, and Lady Catherine's demeanor softened minutely.

"Yes, it is a beautiful property. It is my pride and joy, besides my dear Anne, of course." Lady Catherine gloated, and Mr. Collins nodded and stepped aside, giving Elizabeth her first real look of Lady Catherine.

Lady Catherine was short and thin, with very pale skin that looked as if it had never seen the light of day. She had dark, piercing green eyes that seemed to look right into your soul, and were displeased with whatever they saw. Her thin lips were pursed tightly into an unhappy frown, with skin wrinkling around them. She had a very conceited demeanor, appearing as if she was the queen of the world and everyone else was below her. Her nose was upturned, and she looked at Kitty and Elizabeth with a critical eye.

"These are your sisters, Mrs. Collins?" Lady Catherine questioned, peering closely at Elizabeth, especially.

"Yes, they are. Kitty is two year older than me, and Elizabeth is the second eldest of our family." Lydia replied in a bored tone, as if she'd rather be somewhere else. Lady Catherine gave each of them a look, and then turned back to Mr. Collins.

"They seem very young to be traveling alone across the countryside, Mr. Collins! You should be watching out more for these young ladies!" Lady Catherine angrily stated, and Mr. Collins nodded with a worried look on his face. "It is most distressing when young ladies can gallivant around the countryside unattended!"

"They were not gallivanting, Lady Catherine. My father sent one of his servants with them on our journey," Lydia retorted back, which made Mr. Collins gasp in horror at the way she was speaking to his noble patroness. Lady Catherine must not have noticed, or did not care at the tone Lydia had used at her, for she made no reference to it and immediately went back on her campaign of contempt.

"Still, it is all very vexing to me! Mr. Collins, please see to it that your wife's sisters are not unattended on their trip home! If I ever received word that they had, I should be extremely distressed!" Lady Catherine exclaimed.

"Yes, my lady!" Mr. Collins replied nervously with a semi-bow.

"Darcy, I do believe that you would not have your sister traveling unattended under such conditions." Lady Catherine's voice boomed towards one of the young men sitting besides her, and Kitty immediately perked up at the sound of the name 'Darcy'.

"No, I would not." Darcy replied quietly to his aunt.

"Exactly my point! It shows conceited independence and poor manners when girls are sent off so by their parents." Lady Catherine replied smugly.

"But Georgiana is a bit younger than the Misses Bennets, so my opinion on the matter would hardly be justifiable." Darcy added, and Elizabeth smiled at this stranger's kind gesture.

That was when Elizabeth and Kitty received their first good look at Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth had to agree with Lydia - he was a very handsome young man. He appeared to be about twenty-eight years old, and was very tall and extremely well built, with dark, curly hair and dark eyes. His appearance seemed very reserved and important, and if Lydia had not mentioned that he was remarkably shy, Elizabeth would have observed that he had an aura of pride.

Colonel Fitzwilliam, on the other hand, was a tad bit shorter than his cousin, with wild light brown hair that seemed to be all over the place. He was very well built, and his appearance showed several wounds that could only have been attained during a battle of some sort. His manner was the opposite of his cousins - he seemed very outgoing and jovial, just by his appearance.

Elizabeth agreed that both men would be agreeable company while she was in Kent, and looked forward to speaking with both men, although perhaps more inclined towards Mr. Darcy. Kitty, however, was obviously smitten with Mr. Darcy, for she constantly stared at him throughout the evening. Elizabeth almost laughed at her sister's manner, especially at the fact that Kitty was too much in awe to say one word to him the entire night.

Chapter 3

Posted on Wednesday, 31 October 2001

Elizabeth did have one conversation with Mr. Darcy, and that came after dinner. Lydia and Kitty were busy speaking with the Colonel, and Mr. Collins was stuttering praise at Lady Catherine and her daughter (who was exactly as Lydia had described her - short, pale, cross, and pretentious). Mr. Darcy was all alone at that point, and Elizabeth decided to speak with this so-called 'eligible suitor', as Lydia called him.

"Hello, Mr. Darcy." Elizabeth replied formally with a curtsey as she sat down next to Mr. Darcy. "It is very nice to finally meet you. I'm Elizabeth Bennet, Lydia's sister."

"Yes, Lydia mentioned that you and your sister were arriving this week. How was your journey?" Darcy asked quietly yet formally, almost making Elizabeth laugh at his decorum.

"It was very nice, despite your aunt's objections." Elizabeth replied, trying to stifle a laugh.

"Yes, well, she does make a big deal out of minuscule items." Darcy added. "I remember when I was five, I tracked muddy footprints all over the front hallway, and she went on for two weeks about the lack of proper manners I was showing. My cousin still teases me about it to this day." Elizabeth had to laugh at this, for she could easily picture Lady Catherine's arguments towards that.

"It is a beautiful house, and I could understand her anger at a mess being made. But two weeks does seem harsh." Elizabeth said with a sigh. "I understand you live in Derbyshire?"

"Yes, near Lambton."

"Really?" Elizabeth exclaimed. "My aunt grew up in Lambton, and she describes it as the most beautiful, peaceful location in the world. Would you agree with that?"

"I suppose I do, for there is no place I love more than to be in Derbyshire." Darcy admitted shyly. "It is the most beautiful county of them all."

"Well, I would have to disagree with you on that point, for I come from Hertfortshire, and I believe that to be the most beautiful county of them all." Elizabeth argued in a teasing fashion, and Darcy just looked at her curiously.

"I was recently in Hertfortshire with my friend, who was looking at an estate there." Darcy stated. "Netherfield, I believe it was called."

"Netherfield?"

"Yes, do you know of it?" Darcy asked, and Elizabeth nodded.

"It is not three miles from where I live!" Elizabeth exclaimed.

"It is a very pretty area, I grant you. I believe my friend would have lent the property, but urgent business called him away before he could close on the deal." Darcy added.

"It is a very beautiful home," Elizabeth praised. "So regal and stately."

"I'd have to agree with you about that," Mr. Darcy said with a smile. "Although Derbyshire is a much prettier area."

"Not this argument again!" Elizabeth laughed. "I must say, Mr. Darcy, I do believe that you are wrong on the matter of counties!"

"What was that, Miss Bennet?" Lady Catherine's voice echoed over towards the party, and everyone else stopped talking and turned to look at the pair. "What was my nephew wrong about? What are you and Miss Bennet speaking about, Darcy?"

Elizabeth did not feel like ending her private conversation with Mr. Darcy, for she was quite enjoying speaking with him. She looked at Mr. Darcy and discreetly rolled her eyes, and he attempted not to laugh.

"We were debating over which county was fairer - Hertfortshire or Derbyshire." Elizabeth replied flatly.

"Well, everyone knows that Derbyshire is by far the most beautiful county that was beheld on earth!" Lady Catherine replied, and Mr. Collins nodded his head furiously in agreement. "I feel sorry for those persons who have never been to Derbyshire, for the do not know what they are missing out on."

Lady Catherine, then and there, took over the conversation, and began talking about the beauty of Derbyshire, Kent, and then Rosings Park. She talked late into the evening, until Lydia loudly exclaimed that she was tired and wished to return home. Mr. Collins was outraged at Lydia's complete lack of discipline, and argued with her that it was quite possible for the party to remain a bit longer. Lady Catherine looked fully annoyed, but reluctantly allowed the party to return home in one of her older carriages.

Elizabeth was both sad to leave the place, for she was deprived of the chance of talking to Mr. Darcy again, but was relieved, for she was certain that she despised Lady Catherine more than anyone else on earth. Kitty, however, was babbling for the rest of the evening of how well Mr. Darcy looked, how polite his manners were, and how she hoped she would get to know him better in the following weeks.

Meanwhile, at Rosings Park, a completely different conversation was going on between Lady Catherine, Anne, and her two nephews.

"I must say, those sisters of Mrs. Collins are no better than she." Lady Catherine said angrily. "They have no manners whatsoever."

"I do not know, Aunt, for I greatly enjoyed the company of Miss Catherine Bennet, and I know that I saw Darcy enjoying his 'argument' with Miss Bennet." Colonel contradicted, giving Darcy a look.

"You were not enjoying their company, Richard - you were simply showing good manners and taking their comments with respect as you were taught to do." Lady Catherine retorted. "Neither of them compare to my Anne." At that moment, Anne let out a huge yawn, and Lady Catherine looked at her warily.

"My poor dear, you must be dreadfully tired, for it is almost eleven! We are to retire. Good night Darcy, Richard." Lady Catherine replied bluntly, gracefully walking out of the room with her daughter and Mrs. Jenkinson in tow. When she was most certainly out of the reach of the two gentlemen's voices, Colonel Fitzwilliam turned to Darcy and gave him a look.

"Did you hear that, Darcy. It appears that we do not enjoy the company of either Miss Bennets." He said with a laugh. "For you know that Lady Catherine is always right."

"It did appear that you were having a intimate conversation with Mrs. Collins and her sister," Darcy stated.

"They do know a great deal about militias and such, and they were very pleasant people to converse with. I do not know what Lady Catherine's quarrel is with them." Colonel Fitzwilliam added. "Although, I do believe she sees Miss Elizabeth Bennet as a threat to you marrying Anne."

"I am not going to marry Anne, Richard." Darcy said exasperated. "Besides, it is no secret that I did take pleasure in Miss Bennet's company, and I look forward to speaking with her in the future."

"If she was all that you say she is, I'll have to speak with her myself." Colonel Fitzwilliam replied.

"That is if you get up in the morning, for it is getting late, and I know how much you like to sleep in the mornings." Darcy added, as he walked out of the room. His cousin looked at him and smiled.

"Yes. I do believe that in a few weeks Miss Elizabeth Bennet may just be a threat for poor Anne." Colonel Fitzwilliam whispered to himself as he himself walked up the stairs to his room.

Chapter 4

Posted on Saturday, 3 November 2001

The Collins party was just finishing their breakfast early in the morning when a loud knock at the door was heard. Mr. Collins, with a huge mouthful of pork and eggs, immediately jumped up, hoping that it was Lady Catherine calling on him. Lydia just rolled her eyes in distaste and started to follow her husband to the door when she immediately stopped in her tracks and turned towards her sisters.

"Kitty! Lizzy! Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam have come to call on us!" Lydia hissed at her sisters. "Get up quickly, and straighten yourselves, for you must look your best for our gentleman callers." And with that comment, Lydia quickly bustled out of the room, leaving Kitty and Elizabeth to exchange a confused, and for Kitty, excited glance.

Kitty raced to the mirror in the hallway, and busied herself at improving her appearance. Elizabeth just rolled her eyes at her sister's hilarious antics.

"You look fine, Kitty." Elizabeth said reassuringly, and Kitty just sighed.

"I'll never get Mr. Darcy to like me if my hair won't stay down!" Kitty wailed. "You know that Mama says only pretty girls find rich husbands, and with hair like this, I'm far from pretty."

"If it's meant to be, he'll like you whether you had perfect hair or no hair at all." Elizabeth comforted.

"I suppose you're right." Kitty said glumly, and plodded along behind her sister as the two entered the sitting room.

Kitty immediately spotted Mr. Darcy near one of the windows, and tried feverishly to get to him. She was stopped in her tracks, however, when Colonel Fitzwilliam motioned for Elizabeth and Kitty to sit down beside him, and propriety kept Kitty from ignoring his requests. Elizabeth noticed that Mr. Darcy was looking at Elizabeth longingly, but she just shrugged off the glance as a figment of her imagination. A man that rich would not want to have anything to do with a girl with such a small dowry. Besides, when she looked back at him, his attentions were turned to Mr. Collins, and his face was expressionless.

Kitty looked like she was about to cry at the fact she was not to speak with Mr. Darcy. However, she tried her best not to in front of Colonel Fitzwilliam, who would most likely report such behavior back to his cousin, degrading his opinion of her (if he had one). Kitty just sat there, looking out of the window miserably, glancing at Mr. Darcy every so often.

"It is a pleasure to finally speak with you, Miss Bennet!" Colonel Fitzwilliam exclaimed, and Elizabeth blushed slightly and looked down at the ground. "I heard from my cousin that he had a superior conversation with you, and I knew that I had to talk to you for myself!"

"It is very nice to meet you as well." Elizabeth added with a smile. "It was a misfortune that we were not able to speak last evening."

"Yes, well, I'm afraid that my aunt did most of the talking then." Colonel Fitzwilliam replied with a laugh. "She always does!"

"I am sure that you must find ample source of lively conversations at Rosings whenever you visit." Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed at Elizabeth's comment.

"To be sure, I do. Whenever Darcy and I arrive for a visit, we scarcely get two words in edgewise with our aunt!" Colonel Fitzwilliam said pleasantly. "Not that Darcy talks much anyway - he's always been the quiet one in the family."

"Really?" Kitty asked curiously, as her attentions turned from Mr. Darcy, who was stuck in a conversation with Mr. Collins, to Colonel Fitzwilliam.

"Oh yes. He's always been the shy one, but we attribute that to the early death of his mother, and his father's passing five years ago." Colonel Fitzwilliam said with a sigh. "He used to be so different before that - lively, spirited, and adventurous."

"It must have been terrible to lose his parents so young," Kitty said with a sigh, looking tearfully over at Mr. Darcy.

"It suppose it was for him. Overnight, he was thrown into the position of Master of Pemberley and the Darcy townhouse, plus he was responsible for all of his father's business ventures and land holdings elsewhere." Colonel Fitzwilliam added. "He also became the guardian of his sister, Georgiana, who was eleven at the time."

"That must have been terrible on her, to lose both of her parents so soon," Kitty repeated sympathetically, and Colonel Fitzwilliam nodded.

"Yes, it was, and it shows in both of their manners. She and her brother so much alike - withdrawn, quiet, and reserved - although Darcy is more guarded in his acquaintances, while Georgiana is just shy." Colonel Fitzwilliam said softly. "Darcy can be a bit more outgoing at times, like last night, but Georgiana barely says two words to anyone besides William."

"I'm sure she'll open up, given time. She has such a caring brother, and relations, that I'm sure that in the future, you'll be complaining about how much she talks!" Elizabeth soothed, and Colonel Fitzwilliam smiled at her. I can see why Darcy kept her to himself last night - she's absolutely marvelous, Colonel Fitzwilliam thought to himself, giving his cousin a small glance. Mr. Darcy shot him a look of daggers, and then continued back into his one-sided conversation with Mr. Collins.

"Enough about Darcy - I'm sure he would wish us to speak of something more interesting," Colonel Fitzwilliam exclaimed, and Kitty's face fell. "What is it like in Hertfortshire?"

"Marvelous - absolutely exquisite! I believe it is the most beautiful place to live, although your cousin would be prone to disagree with me." Elizabeth laughed.

"Yes. He can be rather one minded, but that's because his estate, Pemberley, is absolutely heavenly." Colonel Fitzwilliam replied.

"I have heard nothing but praise about Pemberley, so it must be a very grand estate," Elizabeth stated.

"It is. The late Mr. Darcy, my uncle, put a great deal into the estate, as all of the late Mr. Darcys have." Colonel Fitzwilliam agreed. "The grounds there are very beautiful."

"I still believe that no place can be more beautiful than Hertfortshire," Elizabeth argued, and Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed.

"Darcy was in Hertfortshire only a few months ago, with his good friend, Charles Bingley." Colonel Fitzwilliam commented. "I believe Bingley was looking at estates in that region."

"Does he intend to lease a house there?" Kitty asked impatiently.

"I believe Bingley did, but from what Darcy said, it seemed that urgent business came up, preventing him from closing on the home." Colonel Fitzwilliam declared.

"Why does Mr. Bingley not lease Netherfield now?" Kitty inquired.

"Mr. Bingley's sisters wished to be in town for the spring, and Mr. Bingley has some accounts to take care of in London, I believe." Colonel Fitzwilliam admitted. "Darcy knows more on the particulars than I do, so I would ask him yourself."

"I shall," Kitty announced firmly, looking at Mr. Darcy longingly. Elizabeth just tried to keep herself from laughing out loud.

The gentlemen did not stay much longer at the Collins', much to Kitty's abhorrence. The two paid their complements, and left on horseback towards Rosings. The moment they were out of sight, Kitty exclaimed her disgust.

"Oh, how I hate Colonel Fitzwilliam!" Kitty burst out angrily. "Why could he not let me speak with Mr. Darcy!"

"Kitty, that is rude of you to say. I am sure that you will be able to speak with Mr. Darcy within the week." Elizabeth scolded.

"Oh, you see no reason to complain - you've already spoken with Mr. Darcy!" Kitty moaned. "I've been stuck speaking with Colonel Fitzwilliam, and he's no pleasure to speak with. I swear, he is the most dimwitted man I have ever met!"

"I heard from Lydia that you both seemed to have a very interesting conversation last night," Elizabeth replied, as the two walked towards the house."

"I was just trying to be courteous." Kitty spat sarcastically. "Besides, if that man had any sense, he'd see that I dislike him so very much, and that I'd rather be speaking with Mr. Darcy!"

"Well, I find him to be very pleasant, and I'm sure that he and his cousin will be very nice acquaintances while we're in Kent." Elizabeth said. Kitty just sighed.

"But please, next time, keep Colonel Fitzwilliam busy so I can finally speak with Mr. Darcy!" Kitty wailed, as she huffed inside. Elizabeth could hear her muttering 'dense', 'ignorant', and 'senseless' under her breath.

When Kitty was a good ways inside, Elizabeth let out a laugh at her sister. Elizabeth secretly hoped that she really didn't hate Colonel Fitzwilliam, or if she did, her opinion of him would improve over the weeks. Deep down, Elizabeth was getting the feeling that Kitty and Colonel Fitzwilliam would make a good match.

Chapter 5

Posted on Wednesday, 7 November 2001

During the next two weeks, Kitty and Elizabeth were constantly in the company of the two eligible bachelors staying at Rosings Park. Neither girl could have been happier, although Kitty had scarcely uttered two syllables to Mr. Darcy since they had arrived. This greatly angered Kitty, since, to her, it was all Elizabeth's fault for always hogging Mr. Darcy's attentions. Lydia, being Kitty's ally and confidant, blamed Elizabeth too, for Kitty's anger and displeasure in Kent.

It was no great surprise that Elizabeth and Darcy were becoming very good acquaintances - they seemed to have hit it off the night they met, and were constantly in each other's companies. Colonel Fitzwilliam also seemed to have been bitten with the love bug and for a few days was infatuated with Elizabeth, until he realized that she did not have much of a fortune, and that she thought of him as no more than a friend. Also, he knew that Darcy was coming very close to falling in love with Miss Bennet, and Fitzwilliam was happy that Darcy was finally showing an interest in young lady. It seemed to Colonel Fitzwilliam that he may in fact win the bet with his brother after all.

So Colonel Fitzwilliam, to give Darcy some privacy, spent most of his time with Kitty, much to her displeasure, which she did not keep hidden. Colonel Fitzwilliam was either dimwitted or just flatly ignored Kitty's sighs and moans whenever he was in her presence. No matter how much Elizabeth reprimanded her sister's behavior, Kitty did not relent in showing that she'd rather be with another certain bachelor.

Lady Catherine was less than thrilled with all of the time her two nephews were spending with the Bennet girls, because it was less time with her Anne. No matter how much Lady Catherine brought up Anne, Mr. Darcy did not seem to be paying her any special attention, and was no where near proposing to her. To Lady Catherine, Elizabeth Bennet was a threat with a capital 'T', and she was busy counting down the days until the Bennet girls departed from Kent.

It was on a sunny day that April, two weeks into Elizabeth and Kitty's stay in Kent, when Elizabeth and Kitty were on a walk with Lady Catherine's nephews. Kitty and Colonel Fitzwilliam were a few paces in front of Darcy and Elizabeth, who were deep in a conversation. Every so often, Kitty would turn and look at Darcy and Elizabeth with deep-seated distaste, and then looking at Colonel Fitzwilliam like he was a parasite. Ignoring Kitty, he led her off the path to show her a beautiful field, and Darcy and Elizabeth were left alone.

"It appears that my cousin and your sister have really hit it off," Darcy observed, and Elizabeth laughed.

"It would appear that Colonel Fitzwilliam is not in the most favorable light in my sister's eye, but I think that her opinion could change." Elizabeth replied, kicking a pebble with her shoe.

"Yes, well, I do not expect much of a serious attachment towards your sister coming from the Colonel." Darcy corrected. "Perhaps a very close acquaintance, but nothing more at the moment."

"And what makes you think that, Sir?" Elizabeth said bitterly. "Is my sister not good enough for your cousin?"

"No, no. Of course not - I meant no slight towards your sister as a person," Darcy hurriedly amended. "I only meant that with such a small dowry, as my aunt has pointed out, it would be impossible for my cousin to marry your sister...."

"Because he is the younger son." Elizabeth finished with a sigh.

"Exactly," Darcy said. "But, should he be promoted in the near future to a general or such, as we expect he will be, there would be no reason why he could not form a closer relationship with your sister."

"I see," Elizabeth said unmoved.

"Miss Bennet, I am sorry if I have offended you, your family, or your situation in life." Darcy apologized sincerely. "I truly am."

"I am not angry for what you said, for it is very true. I should be angry at myself for not realizing that, as a younger son, no serious attachment could be made between the two." Elizabeth argued. "I know that officers do not make much. In fact, I was always advising Kitty and Lydia not to marry Denny or Wickham, because they won't have very much spending money." Darcy stopped and looked at her in shock.

"I don't mean to say that we are looking to marry for money," Elizabeth corrected hastily. "I only meant that, since both my sisters are forever buying bonnets and other trinkets, that it would be wise if they married someone who could support their interests."

"No, no. Did you just say the name 'Wickham'?" Darcy pried.

"Yes - Lieutenant George Wickham." Elizabeth said in surprise. "Why? Are you an acquaintance of his?"

"He was the godson of my late father," Darcy said bitterly.

"I will mention that I met with you when I see him next, then," Elizabeth added with a smile, which turned to a frown when she saw the look of displeasure on Mr. Darcy's face.

"I would be grateful to you if you did not, due to our unhappy past," Mr. Darcy asked, and Elizabeth nodded.

"I don't wish to pry, but ... is he is any way a danger to my sister, or my family?" Elizabeth asked after a few moments hesitation. Darcy sighed.

"He is not the best of men to be acquainted with." Darcy said sternly. "He has forever been in debt, and will do anything to marry a girl just for her large dowry. He attempted to do that to my sister, Georgiana, last summer, but I was fortunately there to stop the marriage from taking place."

Elizabeth looked at Darcy with wide eyes, and immediately felt sorry for Georgiana. At least she has a brother who cares deeply about her, and was there to stop her from making such a mistake, Elizabeth thought.

"I'm very sorry about your sister," Elizabeth said after a moment's thought. "It was good that you were there in time to stop the marriage."

"Yes - although I shudder to think of what might have happened if I hadn't." Darcy replied with a cringe. "Promise me that you will not speak to anyone about what I told you. Colonel Fitzwilliam knows the particulars of Georgiana and Wickham, in case you wish for more proof on the matter, but I beg you not to tell your sisters, or anyone else for that matter."

"You can be assured of my secrecy." Elizabeth promised. "What is your sister like, Mr. Darcy?"

"Georgiana? She is very shy, and withdrawn from society, even more so after what happened to her." Darcy stated. "I blame it on the fact that her mother died so young, and the fact that she hasn't had much influence in her life. Well, besides Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst, and they're not the best companions for a young girl."

"I'm very sorry to hear that about your sister," Elizabeth said softly, as the two walked on even further. They later met back up with Colonel Fitzwilliam and Kitty, who was looking particularly green with envy at Elizabeth and red with fury and embarrassment. Elizabeth was curious to know what had happened with the Colonel, and it was not until they were safely inside Hunsford did Kitty vent her emotions.

"That ridiculous oaf!" Kitty shouted.

"Kitty! Be quite! I'm sure that they can still hear you outside!" Elizabeth scolded, and Kitty just looked at Elizabeth repulsively.

"Oh, you had no problem today, since you hogged Mr. Darcy all to yourself! Really, Elizabeth, I always thought you were kind and compassionate, but now I know that you are mean, heartless, and rude!" Kitty screamed.

"KITTY!" Elizabeth said in shock.

"I can't believe I was stuck with that ... terrible man all day long! I swear, I hate him more than anyone else on earth, and if I am stuck talking with him for one more day, I shall scream my head off!" Kitty retorted.

"Kitty, you never know. Perhaps your opinion of him may change in a bit." Elizabeth said with a shrug. "Who knows - maybe one day you'll be the new Mrs. Colonel Fitzwilliam."

"Don't even say that, Lizzie! He is the last man I could ever marry, and the last one I ever would!" Kitty screeched as she ran up the stairs and slammed her door shut. Elizabeth just looked at her door and raised her eyebrows. Things sure are becoming very confusing around here, Elizabeth thought.

Meanwhile,

"What do you think of Kitty Bennet?" Colonel Fitzwilliam asked his cousin, who shrugged in reply.

"I do not know - I have not spoken with her since we arrived here." Darcy replied honestly. "Why do you ask?"

"No particular reason. I just find her a very interesting specimen." Colonel Fitzwilliam said with a laugh, in his best mad scientist laugh.

"I think that you've fallen for her, quite honestly," Darcy added, and Colonel Fitzwilliam looked at Darcy as if he had two heads.

"That girl? Really, Darcy, I think you've gone mad. You must see how much she despises me, and I could never fall in love with someone as rude as her." Colonel Fitzwilliam retorted angrily. "Besides, you should see how much she's infatuated with you. But wait, you're too busy being infatuated with Elizabeth to notice."

"Miss Bennet, Fitz." Darcy corrected, and the Colonel laughed.

"What about 'Anne's Competition'? I seem to like that one better," Colonel Fitzwilliam said with a laugh as they walked into Rosings' grand entryway.

"What about my Anne? Darcy, is that you?" Lady Catherine's voice boomed from the sitting room. "My Anne and I were just wondering where you were. Come, Darcy, and sit with us for a while." Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam exchanged a laughing glance and slowly walked towards the sitting room, with visions of the day's excitement in their heads.

Chapter 6

Posted on Monday, 12 November 2001

One week later

"Kitty, Lizzy! You will never believe what I've just heard!" Lydia screeched as she ran into the house. "But I fear telling it to you, for, although it is good news, it is bad news as well!"

"Oh, Lydia, you have to tell us, or I shall just die!" Kitty wailed, as Lydia sat down to catch her breath.

"Oh, very well. We have been invited to have dinner at Rosings Park tomorrow evening," Lydia replied, and Kitty squealed.

"We shall see Mr. Darcy again, although it does us no good if Lizzy hogs him all to herself like she always does!"

"Kitty, you know that I do no such thing!" Elizabeth retorted. "Besides, you and Colonel Fitzwilliam seem very cozy together."

"That old windbag? He reminds me of a pair of old bagpipes - loud and annoying, without the decency to be quiet for once in his life," Kitty replied angrily.

"But that is not all!" Lydia added. "For this will be the last time we shall see Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam!"

"WHAT?" Kitty screamed. "WHAT DO YOU MEAN?"

"Colonel Fitzwilliam has urgent business in London, and he and Mr. Darcy are leaving tomorrow," Lydia stated. "Our hearts are broken."

"They cannot leave! They cannot," Kitty said, stamping her foot. "I have not even had the chance of speaking with Mr. Darcy yet."

"Whining won't make them stay, Kitty," Elizabeth replied. "Besides, I am sure that you will have the chance of speaking with him tonight."

"I'd better. If Colonel Windbag says one more thing to me, I swear I will break a plate over his head!" Kitty said with a huff as she hurried up the stairs and slammed her door. Lydia looked angrily at Elizabeth.

"This is all your fault, you know."

"My fault?"

"You should have been kinder to Kitty and allowed her to speak with Mr. Darcy, without hogging him to yourself all of this time," Lydia spat as she went upstairs to check on her sister, and Elizabeth just rolled her eyes.

Later that night, at Rosings

Dinner was not much of a help to Kitty, for Mr. Darcy had been placed as far away as possible from her. Lady Catherine seated both of the Bennet girls at the end of the table, making sure that Mr. Darcy sat next to herself and across from Anne. Lady Catherine was sure that Mr. Darcy would see all of Anne's beauty and propose, but her efforts were a failure.

Immediately after dinner, Lady Catherine ordered Elizabeth to play for them on her pianoforte, and Darcy offered to turn pages for her. This made Elizabeth wary, for she was not the best musician, and was sure that her playing was terrible. Darcy, however, thought the opposite.

"That was a beautiful performance," He said to her, and Elizabeth blushed.

"I am sure that you saw how I fudged and slurred my way through the difficult passages. I am not a skilled as you think I am," Elizabeth confessed, and Mr. Darcy just smiled at her.

"I do believe that you are about as skilled as my sister, and she is a very proficient musician," Darcy complemented.

"Please do not lower your sister's abilities by trying to complement me, Mr. Darcy, for I am sure that she is a far better musician."

"Perhaps you would like to hear her play for yourself, and be the judge of that." Mr. Darcy offered. "I heard from Mr. Collins that you are to be in London within the week. If you are not otherwise engaged, would you care to meet with my sister one afternoon?"

"I would love to meet with your sister, Mr. Darcy, but I am sure that she would find me dull and uninteresting," Elizabeth said, feeling honored that he wished to introduce his sister to her. Elizabeth just realized that she would not be able to tell Kitty this, or Elizabeth knew she would not be living any longer.

"Quite the contrary," Mr. Darcy replied. "I am sure that she would be delighted to meet with you, since she has such few real companions in London."

"Well, for the benefit of your sister, I shall accept your invitation," Elizabeth said with a smile.

"DARCY! What are you and Miss Bennet speaking of so secretly over there? I demand to know what it is!" Lady Catherine roared in their direction.

"I was merely telling her how proficient Georgiana at the piano," Mr. Darcy replied calmly, and Lady Catherine's expressions lit up.

"Oh, dear Georgiana is such a wonder at the piano! She has such talent and potential that she will go far," Lady Catherine boasted. "I am sure that my Anne would be as beautiful a player as Georgiana, if not for her delicate condition..."

Darcy and Elizabeth just shared a look, rolling their eyes as Lady Catherine continued on with her praises of Anne.

Chapter 7

Posted on Tuesday, 13 November 2001

The following day contained many firsts and lasts for the Bennet girls. It was the last time any of the girls expected to see either Mr. Darcy or Colonel Fitzwilliam again, although Elizabeth knew that she would hopefully soon be seeing Mr. Darcy and his sister in London. To Kitty and Lydia, however, it was the last time they would set on the richest, and handsomest, bachelor that ever stepped into their lives.

It was a first, though, because it was the first time Mr. Darcy had ever given Elizabeth a farewell kiss on her hand (and we shan't go into her feelings on that kiss, or I'd never be done with this story). It was also the first time Mr. Darcy ever uttered any words to Kitty.

Kitty was not going to let this eligible bachelor out of her life without hearing his voice speaking to her once , and immediately tried to start a conversation with Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth was unhappy, since she cut their goodbye short, but Kitty was oblivious to the looks Darcy was giving Elizabeth, and moved right in on her pounce.

"We will miss your company here, Mr. Darcy," Kitty said sweetly, batting her eyelashes, and Mr. Darcy looked at her hesitantly.

"Yes, Miss Kitty, my cousin and I will also miss you and your sisters' delightful company," Mr. Darcy replied. "I don't think we've ever had such an enjoyable trip to Kent, and I believe we'll be quite lost without any charming ladies, such as you and your sisters, to speak with."

Kitty's mouth dropped open at this comment, and tried to keep herself from fainting. She gave a small cough and batted her eyelashes at Mr. Darcy once more.

"Thank you Mr. Darcy for your complements," Kitty replied sweetly.

"I'd have to agree with Darcy. You and your sisters have really brightened up Kent, and we are very broken up over having to leave so suddenly, and be deprived of such witty and beautiful companions," Colonel Fitzwilliam added, but Kitty just rolled her eyes at his comment and looked at Darcy again.

"We'd better be off, Fitz, if we wish to get to London before dark," Mr. Darcy warned, and the two men, hesitantly left.

"Oh, Lizzy! Did you hear what Mr. Darcy said about me! I think I shall just swoon with delight!" Kitty said, collapsing into a chair. "If only he had stayed longer, I am sure he would have proposed to me!" Elizabeth just rolled her eyes.

"It is quite possible," Elizabeth said after some time. "But I do believe that Colonel Fitzwilliam was showing you many complements and being very attentive."

"Oh, him," Kitty said flatly. "I'm just glad that he's gone. What a fool!"

"Kitty, that is not a very nice thing to say about a man you hardly know," Elizabeth warned.

"Well, he thinks that he knows me well enough, or he would have propos..." Kitty realized what she was about to say, and closed her mouth. "Oh look, it seems like we shall have rain this afternoon!"

"He proposed to you?" Elizabeth asked in a loud tone. "What did you say?"

"What do you think I said!? I said he was the last man I could ever marry, and flatly refused him," Kitty said. "Did you actually think I would have accepted his addresses?"

"I am shocked that he proposed so quickly, although I am not surprised by his feelings towards you," Elizabeth confessed.

"It appears I am the only one oblivious to his feelings," Kitty snorted. "But I am glad that I refused him - could you imagine me as his wife! The whole idea is revolting, yet humorous!"

"When did he propose to you?" Elizabeth asked, and Kitty snorted.

"That afternoon, when we were all out walking. He pulled me over to his favorite spot, overlooking the river, and proposed. It was quite sweet, for he claimed I was the only woman he could and would ever love, and sappy romantic things like that," Kitty replied, picking at the hem of her dress. "If it had been anyone else, I probably would have accepted them just because of those comments."

"I still don't see why you couldn't marry him," Elizabeth asked.

"You don't understand, Elizabeth. We weren't meant to be together - I was meant for something greater, and he isn't all that great," Kitty replied. "It's too hard to explain, for you'll never understand."

"What will you tell Mama?"

"Nothing, and don't you go and tell her now about my proposal!" Kitty threatened. "I'll never hear the end of it if you do!"

"You can be assured of my secrecy."

"Good. Now, I'm going upstairs to start packing for London," Kitty added. "Do you suppose we might see Mr. Darcy there?"

Elizabeth just rolled her eyes.

Chapter 8

Posted on Tuesday, 13 November 2001

One week later, the girls arrived at their Aunt and Uncle Gardiner's home, and found their family waiting with open arms. The girls found their aunt and uncle's home to be quite comfortable and inviting, and were happy to be staying there, away from the boasting of Lady Catherine and the ranting of their mother.

The week that they were to stay there went by so quickly, that soon they only had one day left before they were to return to Longbourn. Kitty was upset, for she had seen nothing of Mr. Darcy while in town. Elizabeth, on the other hand, seized the moment by saying she was to visit an old friend, and took the carriage early in the morning to the Darcy townhouse.

The grandeur and size of the house surprised Elizabeth - it was obvious that the Darcys were a very rich family. The butler let in Elizabeth, who showed her to the housekeeper, who led her to one of their many sitting rooms, and admitted her to see Miss Darcy.

"Miss Bennet!" Miss Darcy exclaimed happily, as if she had known Elizabeth all of her life. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you!" Elizabeth noticed that Miss Darcy said all this very softly, and had to assume that she was shy and quiet, like her brother.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, too, Miss Darcy - I have heard so much about you."

"And I about you. My brother and cousin could not stop spouting praise when arriving home from Kent."

"I hardly believe that they could have anything good to say about me," Elizabeth said, blushing, and Miss Darcy's eyes grew wide.

"Oh, they do! I heard that you are a wonderful pianist, and I should dearly love to hear you play," Miss Darcy added.

"I am sure that you are far more accomplished that I," Elizabeth corrected, and Miss Darcy shook her head.

"Everyone says that I am accomplished, but I know that my brother and cousin only say it because I am related. And Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst only praise me so that William will notice them. Miss Bingley has high hopes about marrying him," Miss Darcy added, and then covered her mouth at what she had said. "I am sorry, I should not have spoken so about them."

"It is all right, Miss Darcy."

"They are out shopping, in case you have wondered why I am all alone. And my brother and Mr. Bingley are off, somewhere, and I do not expect them to be home for another hour or two," said Miss Darcy, with a glint in her eye. "But, I am sure that William will be home soon."

"If not, please give him my regards," Elizabeth said. "I do not believe I can stay too long, for I am to leave London tomorrow for my home in Hertfortshire."

"I am sorry to hear that, for I was hoping I would see more of you while you are in town!" Miss Darcy exclaimed. "I am sure that William will be unhappy to be missing your company as well."

"And I to be missing his."

Miss Darcy though for a moment, and then her face was overcome by a look of joy and pride.

"I have the perfect idea! You must come to Pemberley with us!" Miss Darcy said happily. "You can be my particular guest, and stay with us for a few weeks over the summer!"

"I thank you for the offer, Miss Darcy, but I am sure that I could not intrude on your family."

"It is no matter," Georgiana added persuasively, "for Miss Bingley, her brother, and the Hursts will also be our guests. You would not be intruding one bit!"

"I, well, I ."

"Come, Miss Bennet, I will not take no for an answer!"

"Yes, then, I shall. Thank you very much for inviting me," Elizabeth said with a smile. She had begun to like Miss Darcy's persuasive side.

"We will be leaving for there in a few weeks, so, if you are in London then, you may ride with us in our carriage up to Pemberley," Georgiana planned.

"That is very nice of you to offer, Miss Darcy." Elizabeth added, nervous at the idea of spending time with Mr. Darcy. What will he say, or think, she asked herself.

"Then it's all settled! I will write to you with more details," Georgiana said. "How wonderful this summer will be!"

Elizabeth and Georgiana spent the next few hours enjoying each other's company, and chatting about the beauties of Derbyshire and of Pemberley. Elizabeth began to become more and more excited at the prospect of spending her summer at such a grand estate, while Georgiana was hoping that she would gain a sister before the summer was over.

Elizabeth only had two problems on her mind. What would her mother and father say, and what would Kitty say, and react, to her invitation?

Chapter 9

Posted on Friday, 16 November 2001

Elizabeth and Kitty returned home the next morning to the open arms of both their parents. Elizabeth was glad to be home after such a long vacation, but Kitty was in a sour mood, for she knew Elizabeth was hiding something from her, and was most likely about her visit in London on the previous day. Elizabeth shrugged off any direct questions Kitty had, only saying that she had visited an acquaintance of hers that Kitty was not familiar with.

Mrs. Bennet was in a furry, and was anxious to know whether or not any eligible bachelors were staying in Kent while the girls were there. Mr. Bennet met her comments with teasing ideals, until Elizabeth shyly replied that they had, indeed, met with two of Lady Catherine's nephews. On hearing that neither of one was proposed to (for Kitty had threatened Elizabeth if she ever told their mother about the Colonel), she went into a faint spell for the next four days, and confined herself to her room, taking tea only occasionally.

Jane and Mary were as they always were. Mary kept herself busy practicing the new piano piece that their aunt had sent her weeks before, which was not so bad until she began to sing along. Jane, on the other hand, as informed to by their mother, had lately been receiving the attentions of a Mr. Winterbury, a man of a small fortune in the trading business. Jane, however, had no comment on that such person, which led Elizabeth to believe that she was only speaking with him to keep her mother in good spirits.

Elizabeth had been home for some days before she brought up Miss Darcy's invitation. She had begun, in part, to forget Miss Darcy's suggestion. When she did remember, Elizabeth assumed that Miss Darcy probably came to her senses and decided not to invite her to join their party. But it was not until a week from her return did her mother race into the sitting room, where the four girls were doing their needlepoint, with a letter in her hand.

"ELIZABETH BENNET! How dare you try my nerves! Why did you not tell me you had been invited to spend a few weeks as Miss Darcy's particular companion?" Mrs. Bennet ranted, settling down into a chair. "Have you no patience for my condition?"

"Mama!" Elizabeth said angrily. "Why have you been reading my letters?" Elizabeth walked over to her mother and snatched the letter out of her fingers.

"How could you not tell me you were invited?" Mrs. Bennet repeated, ignoring Elizabeth's question.

"I suppose the opportunity never came up," Elizabeth replied angrily, and Mrs. Bennet just clucked.

"Oh, you must take Jane with you, for I am sure that there will be many other handsome bachelors at his estate!" Mrs. Bennet rambled, and Elizabeth shook her head.

"Mama! I barely even know this girl, and I refuse to bring all of my sister's along and trample on their kindness," Elizabeth said forcefully.

"Oh, Elizabeth! Must you be so cruel to your poor sisters!" Mrs. Bennet cried, clutching her head.

"Mama, either I go by myself, or I shall not go at all."

This threat really affected Mrs. Bennet, who stopped her crying immediately and looked at Elizabeth with wonder.

"Yes, I suppose you are right," Mrs. Bennet agreed. "Jane, you must stay here, for I am sure that Mr. Winterbury will propose to you in a matter of days. He is so attentive and caring towards you!"

With that comment, Mrs. Bennet got up and walked towards the door in a flurry of excitement and nerves.

"I shall tell Sarah to begin packing your dresses, for you are to be in London in only two days!" Mrs. Bennet said quickly. "Oh, this will be perfect!"

As soon as Mrs. Bennet was out of the room, Kitty turned her head towards her sister and gave her a dreadfully deathly stare.

"You must have conveniently forgotten to tell me that you'd already met Miss Darcy," Kitty spat.

"Kitty..."

"No, I understand. You wanted to keep Mr. Darcy all to yourself! You thought I was too much of a threat to your happiness with him to allow me the honor of meeting his sister," Kitty continued on, and Elizabeth thought she sounded a lot like their mother.

"Kitty, I was invited to meet Miss Darcy, and I wasn't sure if the family would mind if you came with me," Elizabeth said quietly. "I wish you could understand that."

"Oh, I understand! I understand that you're the most selfish, rude sister anyone could ever have. I hope you have a enjoyable trip," Kitty said sarcastically, and waltzed out of the room.

"I'm sure she'll come around in a few days," Jane comforted, while Mary went off spouting on the evils of being a negligent sister. Elizabeth just sighed, and hoped that Jane was right.

Chapter 10

Posted on Friday, 16 November 2001

Two days later, Elizabeth found herself outside of the Darcy townhouse in London. The housekeeper was a bit friendlier this time when she showed Elizabeth to Miss Darcy, who was ecstatic to see Elizabeth again.

"Miss Bennet! It is so glad to see you again!" Miss Darcy said.

"Miss Darcy, if we are to spend a few weeks together, you must start calling me Elizabeth," Elizabeth requested, and Miss Darcy just looked at her sheepishly.

"Is if all right if I do? Will you be mad?" She asked shyly, and Elizabeth smiled.

"Of course it is all right! Why would it not be?"

"I suppose you're right. But you must call me Georgiana, if you do not mind," Miss Darcy squeaked as she forever became Georgiana. "We are just about to leave, as soon as your trunks are packed on the carriage."

"Who else is to be traveling with us?" Elizabeth asked nonchalantly.

"Miss Bingley, Mr. and Mrs. Hurst, and Mr. Bingley," Georgiana replied. "My brother had to leave for Pemberley yesterday, or else he would have been her to greet you with myself."

"Well, I shall be pleased to meet all of them," Elizabeth said happily, and Georgiana's face went pale.

"Just make sure that you do not offend Miss Bingley. She is one of those people who believes that money is better than anything else in the world, and I believe she is off to marry my brother," Georgiana warned.

"I'm sure she can't be all that bad." Georgiana just shrugged.

The two girls walked outside and were helped into one of the carriages. Elizabeth strained her ears to listen, and, at last, the sounds of two sets of feet were heard descending down the outside stairway. Elizabeth saw two men on horseback nearby as the two women were helped into the carriage.

"Miss Elizabeth Bennet, may I introduce Mrs. Louisa Hurst and Miss Caroline Bingley," Georgiana said formally.

"It is very nice to meet you," Elizabeth replied, as Louisa gave her a nod. Caroline just turned up her nose, and said hello to Georgiana.

Elizabeth's first impression was that Caroline was the relation of a family of ducks, but she couldn't pinpoint why she thought that. Caroline had a very upturned nose, and very thin lips shaped in a frown of distaste. She had very dark hair that illuminated her piercing hazel eyes, which seemed to look directly through Elizabeth and dislike what she saw. Elizabeth though that Caroline looked a lot like Lady Catherine, despite the fact that Caroline was most hideous orange dress she had ever seen.

Mrs. Hurst was no different than her sister, although her hair was a light color than her sister's. Also, she was very much shorter, and a bit plumper than her narrow, stickish sister. Mrs. Hurst had a very false attitude about her, almost as if she was laughing at Elizabeth. Elizabeth knew that this wasn't going to be a pleasant carriage ride.

Caroline and Louisa kept most of their comments to Georgiana, ignoring Elizabeth completely. Georgiana was too shy to speak to Elizabeth at the moment, so Elizabeth sat looking out the window at the beautiful landscape. Finally, Caroline broke the ice.

"And where are you from, Miss Eliza?"

"Hertfortshire. A bit out of Meryton." Elizabeth replied.

"Really? Charles was to buy an estate there. I hear it is very pretty there," Louisa replied.

"It is. I believe it is the most beautiful place in the world." Elizabeth said, and Caroline snorted.

"It may be, but I am thankful that Charles did not take that dreadful estate! London is a much better place to settle, with more parties and assemblies," Caroline argued.

"And all of our acquaintances are in town," Louisa added, and Caroline nodded.

"Oh, do not worry, Georgiana," Caroline said hurriedly. "Pemberley is the only exception I can think of! Your estate is so much more elegant than anything in town!"

"Quite true, sister," Louisa added, and Georgiana blushed.

"What did your brother feel about the estate?" Elizabeth asked boldly, and Caroline looked at her daringly.

"I suppose he liked it, but he likes everything," Caroline said rudely. "I remember he was always buying things just so he didn't offend the shopkeepers."

"It is a good thing he returned to town, or the owner may have talked him into buying that hideous place," Louisa spat, and Caroline nodded.

"I always thought it was an elegant estate," Elizabeth replied.

"Well, perhaps to someone who has always lived there. It takes a real sense of ... taste and class to tell when something is of a regal manner," Caroline stated.

"I see," Elizabeth said, looking out of the window.

A few hours later, the carriage stopped briefly in a small town near Lambton. Mr. Hurst had a small amount of business to take care of quickly, and Georgiana went out to speak with Mr. Bingley, leaving the three women alone in the carriage.

"Ah, what a beautiful sight," Caroline said in awe.

"What is?" asked Elizabeth.

"Georgiana and Charles." Louisa replied. "They will make a good match."

"Are they engaged?" Elizabeth asked.

"Oh, not yet. But it is very likely that they shall be very soon. It is the wish of both of their families, and would be embraced as the most beneficial marriage a young girl could achieve." Caroline said proudly. "I look forward to the day I can call her my sister."

"As do I. She and Charles will make a wonderful husband and wife, and there is no doubt about that," Louisa added.

"Besides, Charles would never marry anyone with such low connections or no fortune, as would Mr. Darcy," Caroline said to Elizabeth, and Elizabeth had to laugh inside.

They're trying to discourage me from turning my attentions to their brother or Mr. Darcy! Elizabeth though with a laugh. They actually see me as a threat!

"It can only be expected," Elizabeth replied simply, and Caroline smiled.

"Yes, I see that you agree with us," Caroline replied with a smile.

"Agree with what?" Georgiana asked, getting back into the carriage.

"That you and my brother look simply wonderful together!" Louisa said hurriedly, and Georgiana smiled.

"You think so?" Georgiana asked Elizabeth, who nodded.

"Yes, very much so."

Georgiana seemed happy by this response, and began to start chatting with Caroline about new fashions in town. Louisa would add in a comment here or there, which Caroline would always agree with.

Elizabeth just settled back into the carriage, smiling inwardly, while retaining a stomach full of butterflies. I wonder if Mr. Darcy knows I'm coming? Elizabeth asked herself. Could he actually be excited that I'm coming, or is he wishing I wasn't? These thoughts stayed with Elizabeth for the rest of the day.

Chapter 11

Posted on Wednesday, 21 November 2001

Elizabeth looked outside of the carriage and impatiently sighed. It seemed like ages since they had left, and that they were no sooner to arriving at Pemberley. Georgiana had assured her, as they left Lambton, that it was not much further away, but the miles seemed to creep along so slowly that Elizabeth swore time was standing still.

Finally, the majestic estate of Pemberley rolled into view, and Elizabeth let a gasp escape. The grounds the carriage had passed through were very lush and beautiful, but were nothing to the estate that sat so happily among the trees. It seemed to be looking at its beauty in a large lake that sat near it, and the blue sky was draped around it, with the setting sun illuminating its every feature.

"I take it, Miss Eliza, that you are impressed with Pemberley?" Caroline asked, and Elizabeth nodded, for words could not express what she felt.

"It is a very grand home," Louisa added, and Elizabeth tried hard to restrain the urge to say the rude comment that first popped into her head.

"It is indeed," Elizabeth choked out, and Georgiana smiled at her.

"Do you really think so?"

"Of course! And it has been kept up very well," Elizabeth added, and Georgiana smiled.

"Why, of course it's been kept up well! I don't know about your estate, but the Darcys always make sure that their homes are in the most excellent of conditions!" Caroline spat nastily, and Elizabeth just glared at her while Georgiana shrunk back in her seat.

"Oh, look, sister! It appears that Mr. Darcy is waiting for us!" Louisa added, giving her sister a look.

"So it does," Caroline said happily as the carriage rolled towards the front of the estate. Elizabeth could hear the unfamiliar voices of Mr. Bingley and Mr. Hurst, and the deep, familiar voice of Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth gulped, wondering what Mr. Darcy would say when he saw her.

Caroline and Louisa pushed their way out of the carriage, followed by a meek Georgiana and a fearful Elizabeth. Caroline walked right up to Mr. Darcy and began to gush out complements, while Louisa nodded at her every phrase. Georgiana just gave her brother a small hug, and when she pulled away, Mr. Darcy first noticed Elizabeth standing there.

"Miss Bennet! How good to see you again!," Mr. Darcy said, and Elizabeth just smiled timidly.

"And you, Mr. Darcy." Caroline noticed this exchange, small as it was, and her face grew into a bitter grimace. I'll have to watch this Miss Eliza Bennet. She could be serious trouble, thwarting any hopes of a marriage between Darcy and myself Caroline though to herself, as she exchanged a look with Louisa, who seemed to be thinking the exact same thing.

Elizabeth was surprised by Darcy's response, but she supposed it was what was to be expected from two people that were just friends. Elizabeth shrugged. What was she thinking he would do? Run up to her, give her a kiss, and propose to her, claiming he was madly in love with her? Preposterous, Elizabeth thought, shaking her head.

"Are you all right, Miss ... Elizabeth?" Georgiana asked with concern. Elizabeth looked up and smiled.

"No, I am fine, thank you."

"I suppose the traveling must be very tiring on some people," Caroline added, and Elizabeth gave her a glare.

"Hmmm." was all Elizabeth said in response. Mr. Darcy, showing the same concern that Georgiana had, offered his free arm, as he also escorted his sister inside. Elizabeth gasped when she saw how beautifully the home was decorated, and Mr. Darcy just smiled at her look of awe.

Georgiana offered to show her to her room, as Elizabeth admired all of the rooms and hallways that they passed. Her room was just as splendid as the others, and was just like a work of art.

"This room looks absolutely marvelous!" Elizabeth exclaimed. "How did you know blue was my favorite color?" Georgiana just shrugged shyly.

"You'll have to thank my brother. He was the one who chose how your room would be decorated," Georgiana answered quietly, and Elizabeth tried hard to keep her surprise inside. He decorated it himself, Elizabeth thought to herself happily, trying not to scream out loud in rhapsody.

"I suppose I will," Elizabeth said with a smile.

"Dinner will be ready soon, and I will leave you so you may get ready," Georgiana added, after some silence between the girls, before she hurried out of the room.

Elizabeth just looked around the room, happily, knowing that this visit would be different.

Chapter 12

Posted on Wednesday, 21 November 2001

Elizabeth was amazed at how fast the time had gone by since she had been there. In the blink of an eye, four days had already passed by, and the three weeks she was to stay at Pemberley seemed like seconds compared to the rest of the world.

Elizabeth was mostly in the company of Georgiana, Caroline (Ducky, as Elizabeth called her behind her back), and Louisa (who strongly reminded Elizabeth of a rat). Mr. Darcy was busy tending to his estate's affairs, or was off shooting with Mr. Bingley and Mr. Hurst. Elizabeth wished that she could see more of Mr. Darcy, and the few moments that he did spend time with the party, Caroline managed to grab all of his attentions (although Elizabeth contributed that to her ugly orange dresses and wildly hideous hairpieces).

On the fifth day of their stay, Caroline and Louisa had convinced, no, bullied Georgiana into going to Lambton with them, to buy some new dresses. Mr. Bingley and Mr. Hurst had also agreed to go with the girls, as they wanted to be updated with the news from town. Mr. Darcy had, of course, declined, as he had left early that morning to visit one of his neighbor's estates, to speak with him about land boundaries.

Elizabeth had planned on going with Georgiana and the rest of the party, but at the last minute dropped out of the group. There were two main reasons for this. One was the fact that Elizabeth wished to go on an undisturbed walk of the grounds to clear her head, which she had not been able to do since arriving. The second was the fact that she would have to listen to Caroline and Louisa gossip all day, and would probably be forced into buying a matching orange gown to parade around Pemberley in.

Georgiana was sorry that her new friend was unable to go with them, but Caroline and Louisa were a bit happier. Besides, both of them were busy trying to get Georgiana and Bingley to speak with each other more, and Elizabeth would only get in their way.

Elizabeth just rambled aimlessly around the grounds of Pemberley, through grove after grove of thick, green pines, maples, and oaks. Her feet sunk into the wet grass with each step she took, but she was so deep into her thoughts that she did not notice. She walked by patches of colorful wildflowers that were scattered on the ground, and uniform flowers that had obviously been planted and tended by a gardener. Elizabeth rambled over rocks, by colorful bushes, by playing squirrels, by singing birds, and straight into a wet mass of person.

Elizabeth was dazed as she was finally catapulted back into reality, and noticed (and was deeply horrified at this) that she had just wandered into a very wet Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth gasped when she noticed this.

"Mr. Darcy! I am very sorry about ... hitting you! I was unaware of where I was going, for I was deep in thought, and I supposed I did not think anyone else was outside, and I..." Elizabeth hurriedly babbled, making a word salad of every sentence she uttered.

"It is all right, Miss Bennet, because I too was not looking as to where I was walking," Mr. Darcy apologized, and Elizabeth just gave him a strange look as she noticed he was wet from head to toe.

"I am sorry for my unkempt appearance, but I was just returning from the neighboring estate and decided to go for a swim in the lake. I had thought everyone had went to town for the day," Mr. Darcy confessed sheepishly, and Elizabeth though he reminded her of a guilty schoolboy.

"I changed my mind, and decided to stay behind," Elizabeth added.

"Oh." Mr. Darcy replied quietly, and the two stood in silence for a few moments.

"I suppose I should let you get changed," Elizabeth replied after some time, diverting her eyes to the ground. Mr. Darcy nodded, but held back for a moment.

"May I ask you something, Miss Bennet?" Mr. Darcy asked, and Elizabeth nodded. "This may be rather personal, but I was wondering if your sister, Catherine, mentioned anything to you about my cousin and their conversations in Kent?"

"I ..." Elizabeth started, wondering the best way to lie.

"Forgive me for that question, but, you see, ever since we left Kent, he hasn't been the same, and I was worried that something happened between the two to make him act that way," Mr. Darcy added.

"How has he been different?"

"Quieter, mostly, and seemed to get discouraged easily. He's also been very down... sad almost ... and feels like he has nothing to live for."

Elizabeth just sighed. She knew exactly why he was acting this way - he was a fool in love who had been rejected, and that was enough to make anyone give up hope in life. She took a deep breath - she had to tell Mr. Darcy the truth.

"He proposed to her," Elizabeth said quickly, and it took a moment for Mr. Darcy to decipher what she had said.

"He proposed to her?" Mr. Darcy repeated, and Elizabeth nodded. "So soon?"

"That is what I thought as well," Elizabeth admitted.

"I am surprised. Not that anyone marrying your sister would be surprising, but I had always thought he would wait until he was promoted to propose to her," Darcy declared. "I will make the observation that she refused him. Am I right?"

"You are, although it is a mystery to me why she would. She and my youngest sister, Mrs. Collins, were always fascinated with redcoats, and why she would refuse the attentions of one is beyond me."

"Do you think that, given some time, she may come around and one day wish for his attentions?" Mr. Darcy asked quietly, and Elizabeth just shrugged.

"I am not sure, but," Elizabeth added, "it is always possible. Just tell your cousin not to give up - I'm sure that they'll be able to work things out soon."

"I hope you're right - it's scaring me to see my cousin acting the way he does," Darcy said worriedly, and Elizabeth's heart had to go out to Colonel Fitzwilliam at that moment. She would have to have a serious talk with Kitty when she returned home.

"I suppose I should go change before everyone returns," Mr. Darcy said hesitantly, as if he didn't wish to leave Elizabeth's side. "But, perhaps, I could come back out and give you a tour of the grounds? I believe Georgiana already gave you a tour of the house, but not of our gardens."

"That would be lovely," Elizabeth added with a smile, as Mr. Darcy turned to go back towards the house.

When the party returned home a few hours later, they found Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy just returning from their walk around the park. Caroline was bitter when she saw the two walking, and laughing, like old friends together, and nudged her sister.

"Do not worry, Caroline - she is nothing to you," Louisa whispered back, boosting Caroline's self-esteem once more.

"Mr. Darcy! When did you return home?" Caroline asked loudly, walking up to the two, grabbing Mr. Darcy's arm and leading him towards the house with Elizabeth in tow with Georgiana.

"A few hours ago." Mr. Darcy stiffly said. "I found Miss Bennet wandering around the gardens, and offered to give her a tour."

"Oh, what a dear you are, Mr. Darcy! Is he not as chivalrous as a knight?" Caroline asked rhetorically. "You are much too kind!"

"How was your trip to town?" Mr. Darcy asked without much feeling. He was growing very annoyed with Caroline, especially since he had broken up a very interesting conversation between himself and Miss Bennet.

"Oh, it was wonderful! You should have come with us!" Caroline said, babbling on about the new dresses she bought.

"I wish you had come with us," Georgiana whispered shyly to Elizabeth. "There was a very beautiful dress I saw that would have looked beautiful on you."

"I am sorry to have missed going with you, but, if you go to town again, I promise to come with you," Elizabeth said sincerely, and Georgiana just smiled. I give it a week, Georgiana thought. One week and I'll have a new sister.

Chapter 13

Posted on Wednesday, 21 November 2001

It had to be said that Caroline was very jealous. Sure, there had been other women, less graceful, beautiful, and poise as Caroline, but they had never been any real threat as they vainly threw themselves at Mr. Darcy. He had just shrugged of their attentions like a duck flips water droplets off its tail feathers. And eventually, the girls got the hint that Mr. Darcy just wasn't interested in them, leaving Caroline all alone to pursue Mr. Darcy's attentions, and fortune.

But Miss Elizabeth Bennet was different.

Elizabeth had waltzed into Pemberley, and had entranced everything and everyone in her way. Georgiana was always ranting about something Elizabeth had told her, and seemed to be more outgoing that previously, which Caroline did not like. Charles, her brother, thought Miss Bennet was a very sweet girl, and enjoyed talking with her in the evenings. And even drunk, old Mr. Hurst had commented that she had a bright head on her shoulders.

But the worst was Mr. Darcy. He had not shrugged off Miss Bennet's attentions with grace and good breeding. No, Caroline thought bitterly. He is actually speaking with her, and making it known that he likes her company. And that would never do.

So Caroline made up her mind to speak with Miss Bennet, the artful rascal who had come to Pemberley to steal away her Mr. Darcy, and make it known, once and for all, that he was not interested in marrying a poor, country girl like herself. It was her duty to protect Mr. Darcy from that girl, and she would not be remiss in her obligation.

Caroline found Elizabeth reading, in the grand Darcy library, the morning of the second week of her visit. Look at her, acting as if she owns the place! Caroline screamed to herself as she watched Elizabeth, who seemed to be entranced in her book.

"Hello, Miss Eliza," Caroline said sweetly, as Elizabeth looked up curiously.

"Oh, hello."

"What are you reading?"

"The Twelfth Night, by Shakespeare," Elizabeth replied quietly, her eyes darting between the pages and Caroline.

"Oh, that is a great favorite of Mr. Darcy's, but I suppose you already know that," Caroline said, and Elizabeth shook her head.

"I did not."

"Oh, I thought that you two were so close that you would know those types of things," Caroline said in mock surprise.

"We are not that close," Elizabeth corrected, looking back down at the book.

"I suppose I should warn you, then, about Mr. Darcy," Caroline replied. "No, no, I shouldn't."

"Warn me about what?" Elizabeth asked, closing the book with a look of wonder on her face.

"It is nothing...but you are my friend, and it is my duty to tell you these things ..." Caroline trailed off.

"Tell me what?"

"I know that you may think that Mr. Darcy is showing you particular regard, but you must not let him fool you like that," Caroline said slowly, and Elizabeth just looked at her confused.

"What do you mean?"

"I know what you're thinking right now, but just because Mr. Darcy is showing you particular regard does not mean that he in infatuated with you, or wishes to make addresses to you," Caroline said with relish. "Darcy may act as if he cares, but that is just his manner."

"He's like my brother, Miss Bennet - both are good-natured, and friendly to everyone. But that is only because decorum makes them act that way. I do not wish to see you're heart be broken, so be wary of any special attentions Mr. Darcy may give you."

"Miss Bingley, I think I can decipher any special attentions anyone may give me, and it is no concern to you," Elizabeth snapped.

"Miss Eliza, let me be blunt. You think that Mr. Darcy will make you an offer of marriage, like so many women before you have thought," Caroline stated simply. "Let me simplify the situation for you - Mr. Darcy would more likely propose to his cousin, Anne, than make a country bumpkin like you an offer of marriage."

"Miss Bingley, I think you have said enough on a matter you are not involved in," Elizabeth replied angrily.

"You think I am lying, but Mr. Darcy owes more to his family than to his heart. He would never disgrace the Darcy name by marrying so lowly into a poor, country family," Caroline added.

"Miss Bingley, that is enough!" Elizabeth exclaimed, but Caroline could tell by the look in her eyes that she was being torn up inside by her comments. Elizabeth's gaze turned to her fingers as she began to pick at her nails, and Caroline smiled in delight.

"You do not need to believe me, but do be careful." Caroline said, halfway out the door. "And, more importantly, find someone from your own station."

The moment Caroline was out of the room, and safely away from the library, Elizabeth darted out of her seat and did not stop running until she was far away from the house as possible.

Mr. Darcy would more likely propose to his cousin, Anne than make a country bumpkin like you an offer of marriage. Caroline's words echoed in Elizabeth's mind over and over as she settled down under a huge maple tree. He would never disgrace the Darcy name by marring so lowly into a poor, country family.

Elizabeth leaned her head against the tree for some time, as minutes rolled by, and tears rolled down her cheeks. She was oblivious to the fact that it had begun to rain, and that the heavy drops were quickly soaking her shivering frame. As Elizabeth put her head into her arms and began to sob profusely, she was also oblivious to the fact that someone was standing next to her.

Chapter 14

Posted on Saturday, 24 November 2001

The tall, dark, muscular, indistinguishable figure lifted up the soaking body of Elizabeth and carried her towards a small, abandoned cottage surrounded by rain soaked trees. The rain was still pounding on the two as the figure quickly tried to get her inside, into the warmth of the shelter. The mysterious shape called out Elizabeth's name many times, but she unaware of these vain attempts.

The rain was finally getting to Elizabeth, and she shivered and shuddered, and nestled towards the warm mass of human flesh, trying to warm herself up as well. Elizabeth was oblivious to the fact that she was being carried, and in her delusion did not decipher what she was clinging too. She was blinded, however, by the bright light that had magically appeared where she was, and her eyes immediately popped open. Elizabeth found herself being wrapped in a warm blanket by a strong arm, and looked around the small cottage in a daze.

"What ...Who ...?" A dazed Elizabeth managed to let escape, as a wave of fear spread throughout her cold body.

"Miss Bennet, are you all right?" a deep, worried voice asked. She recognized the voice as Mr. Darcy's, and she immediately became choked up. What am I to say to him?

"Fine," Elizabeth squeaked with a small smile, but her tear stained eyes told a different story.

"I don't believe you," Mr. Darcy replied forcefully as he wrapped his arm around her, and Elizabeth realized that the warm mass of body was that of Mr. Darcy's. "Whatever is the matter?"

"Nothing," Elizabeth said quietly. It felt so good to be held by Mr. Darcy that she wished this moment could go on forever. It doesn't matter. Elizabeth thought sadly. Nothing could ever happen between us. Caroline's words came to mind, and the fact that Elizabeth realized she would never again be held by Mr. Darcy brought on a fresh wave of tears. That was the moment that she realized she loved him.

"Miss Bennet," Mr. Darcy replied to her shaking, crying form. "I have a younger sister - I can tell when young ladies are lying." Elizabeth tried to laugh at this, but more sobs came out.

Mr. Darcy gave up on asking her about her condition, and just held her tighter. He could feel Elizabeth's hot tears being absorbed by his shirt, and wished that there was something he could do to ease her sufferings. It pained him to see her like this, and he wished that she would confide in him what was wrong.

"I heard you were speaking with Miss Bingley earlier. Did she say something to upset you?" Mr. Darcy asked softly, receiving a mumble from Elizabeth. It would be just like Caroline to go say something rude and heartless to Miss Bennet, Darcy thought.

"You mustn't listen to Caroline - she's always been bitter and spiteful, and will stop at nothing to crush others in her path to glory," Mr. Darcy added, and Elizabeth kept on crying. "Most of what she says is not true."

This isn't helping, Darcy thought angrily. What else can I do? Can I say? Blast Caroline for making Elizabeth ... Miss Bennet cry - I'll personally wring her neck when we get back to the house.

Mr. Darcy did the only thing he could - he placed his fingers under Elizabeth's chin and raised her face up so it was looking at hers. Her eyes looked so sad and timid as they peered cautiously into his, and he could see even more tears welling up and cascading over her soft cheeks.

"Elizabeth, what's wrong?" Mr. Darcy asked her, and she sniffed as another tear rolled down her face.

"You've never called me that before," Elizabeth said after a while.

"What?"

"Elizabeth. You've always called me Miss Bennet, but never Elizabeth." Darcy hadn't realized that it slipped out, and turned his gaze away from her. "I don't mind."

"You don't?" Darcy asked, and Elizabeth shook her head.

"It sounds pretty when you say it."

"If you tell me what's wrong, I'll say it again," Darcy promised, and Elizabeth just looked down at the floor. "Was it Caroline?"

"Yes."

"What did she say to you?"

Pause. There had been many awkward pauses that afternoon in the cottage, but this one had to have been the worst. Elizabeth didn't know what to say to Darcy - should she tell him the truth, and fear his rejection, or not say anything, and cause him worry and anguish. She took a deep breath.

"Will you promise not to laugh or get angry at me?"

"Of course! Why would I do that?"

"And you won't yell at me?"

"I promise I won't."

"Swear it?"

"I swear it on the graves of my parents."

"Really?"

"Yes."

Elizabeth took a deep breath, as more tears fell from her eyes.

"She told me that I didn't have a chance with you, and that you'd rather marry Anne than me, and I couldn't take the fact that we couldn't be more than friends, and that you'd never want to marry me, since I realized that I really do love you so very much, so deeply, so truly, and I just couldn't take the idea of living without you," Elizabeth rambled very quickly as more tears spilled from her cheeks, and her eyes immediately sprang towards a speck on the ground.

Darcy was stunned by her confession of love for him, and did the only thing he thought of doing, the thing he had wished to do ever since he had first met her. He raised her face to his, and kissed her soft lips with the most passionate kiss known. For a few sweet moments, the two sat in utter bliss as the heavy rain pounded all around them.

Chapter 15

Posted on Saturday, 24 November 2001

Elizabeth thought she was dreaming, because it was too good to be true. She flinched slightly, which Darcy misread as hesitation on her part, and he slowly pulled away from the kiss and looked at her with utter concern.

"I'm sorry," Darcy apologized.

"Sorry for what?" Elizabeth asked, pulling him back for another kiss that lasted longer than the first one. When they finally pulled away, Darcy had to laugh.

"We can't do this all night, you know, or Caroline will be marching down here to know what's going on," Darcy said with a laugh.

"I don't care," Elizabeth murmured as she placed her head on Darcy's shoulder and smelled in his cologne. "Let her worry."

Darcy looked at the peaceful form of Elizabeth resting against his shoulder, her body slowly rising with each breath. She looked so serene that he never wanted this moment to stop. However, she was completely soaked through, and would need to get back to Pemberley as soon as possible to avoid catching pneumonia or risking a fever.

"I have something for you," Darcy said, and Elizabeth opened one eye at him.

"What is it?" she asked, and he shook his head.

"Look in the pocket of my coat."

Elizabeth noticed at that moment that she was wearing his black coat, which seemed to be why she could smell his cologne so strongly. She picked through the pockets of his coat, and found at gold watch.

"A watch?"

"No, silly, unless you really want it. Keep looking," Darcy said with a laugh as she rummaged through the pockets some more. Feeling a hard lump at the bottom of the pocket, she pulled her hand out to observe her treasure. It was a diamond ring.

"What is this?" Elizabeth asked coyly, making Darcy smile.

"It's an engagement ring," Darcy replied, looking deeply into her eyes.

"You're going to ask Caroline to marry you? How sweet!" Elizabeth teased. "Promise me you'll allow me to be her bride's maid."

"How about I let you be the bride?" Darcy asked her, and Elizabeth smiled.

"I'd love that," She replied, kissing him gently on the lips.

"Does that mean we're engaged?" Darcy asked.

"I never heard a proposal. Perhaps my ears are a bit fuzzy from the rain."

"Do I have to?" Darcy said sarcastically, whining like a two-year-old.

"Yes, Mr. Darcy, you do."

"Fine. Elizabeth Bennet, will you do me the great honor of becoming my wife?" Darcy asked formally, and Elizabeth giggled.

"No."

"No?" Darcy was stunned. "Why not?"

"I don't know you're first name." Elizabeth answered very calmly.

"It's Fitzwilliam."

"Then, yes, Fitzwilliam Darcy, I will marry you," Elizabeth corrected, and Darcy smile turned into a wide grin.

"Now, who's going to be the lucky one who tells Caroline about our engagement?" Darcy asked, and Elizabeth just shrugged.

"How about we let the ring speak for itself," Elizabeth suggested in a teasing manner. "Or is Caroline too dense to figure out what it means?"

Darcy kissed her again.

"That's why I love you," he replied.

"Because I'm charmingly witty, or because of my entrancing beauty?" Elizabeth teased.

"Both."

"And that's why I love you," Elizabeth added.

"Why?"

"Because you are the sweetest person I know, and the only one who can tease me back," Elizabeth answered. "Besides, you're a great kisser." With that, Elizabeth gave him another kiss, and the two remained lip-locked until Darcy hesitantly pulled away.

"We should head back to Pemberley, so you can change out of these wet clothes," Darcy said with concern. "You'll catch your death if you don't."

The two trudged quickly back through the mud and the drops of steady rain, but were unaware to both. They had each other, and that was all that matter to them.

Chapter 16

Posted on Monday, 26 November 2001

"Mr. Darcy!" Caroline's voice echoed through the hallway, and both Darcy and Elizabeth cringed at the sound of it.

"It'll be okay," Darcy whispered to Elizabeth. "Besides, if she gives you any more grief, I'll just throw her out."

Elizabeth just gave a small nod and pulled herself closer towards her William as her heart did a complete nose-dive and settled in her stomach. Elizabeth knew that she had proven Caroline wrong, as she and William were now engaged, but she still couldn't face Caroline. However, Caroline, as if on signal, waltzed flirtatiously towards Darcy, batting her eyelashes. Elizabeth hurriedly pulled the sleeve of Mr. Darcy's coat, which she was still wearing, over her hand, and successfully hid her engagement ring from Caroline's view.

"It is so good to see that you are all right, Darcy, for we were beginning to worry that something had happened to you. That storm sounded so very vicious," Caroline said sweetly, completely ignoring Elizabeth. "Come, Darcy, you must warm yourself by the fire."

"That is very thoughtful of you, Caroline, but I must see that Miss Bennet is first taken care of. She is completely soaked through, I am afraid that she might catch a fever or worse, pneumonia, if she is not tended to quickly," Darcy added, shooting Elizabeth a worried look.

"Oh, Darcy! How thoughtful of you to worry after Miss Eliza, even though she was so foolish enough to go running out during a thunderstorm," Caroline said, managing to praise Darcy and insult Elizabeth at the same time. Elizabeth could feel William's arm muscles tense up, and she knew he was restraining the urge to punch or strangle her.

"I suppose she must have had a good reason, Caroline. Miss Bennet does not seem like the person to foolishly run out during a thunderstorm for the mere thrill of it," Darcy replied somewhat agitatedly, but Caroline either did not note this, or refused to accept that Darcy was not agreeing with her comment. (Considering how extremely dense Caroline is, the first seems more suitable).

Elizabeth gave a small cough, not to draw attention but because she was becoming very cold. Darcy's attention turned to her, his eyebrows furrowed in worry.

"Excuse me, Caroline. I believe I'll take Miss Bennet upstairs now. Tell the rest of the party that I'll be down shortly," Darcy said with forced politeness, and Caroline gave a small nod in approval.

Darcy dragged Elizabeth up the stairs, causing Elizabeth to run to keep from being dragged along the carpet.

"Really, William, you're about to pull my arm out," Elizabeth said, half teasing and half in pain. Darcy, not wanting to cause his fiancée any more pain (or any at all), slowed down his pace and gave Elizabeth another worried look. Suddenly, a servant appeared, and Darcy stopped him dead in his tracks.

"Would you please tell some of the servants to quickly prepare a bath for Miss Bennet," Darcy said forcefully, and the servant nodded. "And also tell Winston to prepare a bath for me in my chambers, after Miss Bennet's bath has been prepared."

The servant nodded at this and quickly ran down the stairs, knowing that the urgency in Mr. Darcy's voice had to be for a reason. Mr. Darcy dragged Elizabeth into what she recognized as his study and locked the door.

"What's all this secrecy for, Mr. Darcy?" Elizabeth asked as he went over to his desk.

"We need to talk in private, and I want to make sure that Caroline does not walk in on us," Darcy replied seriously.

"About what?"

"I've decided to go onto London tomorrow to take care of a bit of business. While there, I can journey on to Longbourn and speak with your father about consent. He will give his consent, correct?" Darcy asked, and Elizabeth nodded. "It shouldn't take more than three days at the most."

"You're going to leave me along with Caroline and Mrs. Hurst for three days?" Elizabeth asked with wide eyes. "Do you always torment young ladies like this, or am I the exception?"

"I would invite you along, but then Georgiana would have to come along, and I couldn't very well leave the Bingleys here all alone, now could I? Caroline would be prancing around like she was Mistress within the first five minutes I was gone," Darcy said with a smile. "Besides, I'll be in more torment without you than you'll be in with Caroline."

"And Louisa," Elizabeth added in a high shrill voice, imitating Caroline, before sighing. "Promise me that you won't tell either of the about our engagement before you return. I'm as anxious to tell them as you are, but I doubt I could stand to be in the same county as them when they find out we're getting married. Especially without you." Darcy just smiled at this.

"I did also wish you to write a letter to your father about all this. It may seem strange when I arrive out of the clear blue asking for your hand in marriage."

"You're right. Give me a sheet of paper, and I shall do this immediately."

Elizabeth scribbled hastily a few lines to her father:

Father, doing fine at Pemberley. Enjoying Miss Darcy's company. Hope you and everyone else are well. I hope that Mama is not becoming to annoying with her constant chatter about Mr. Winterbury and Jane. Please do not be alarmed by Mr. Darcy's requests, for you can be assured that I love him very deeply. (I wonder why he even asks, because I would marry him with or without your consent.) Will be glad to see you in a few weeks.
Yours &tc.

Darcy, who was reading over Elizabeth's shoulder, smiled as he read bits and pieces of the letter.

"You'd marry me even without your father's consent?" He asked.

"Of course."

"New change of plans. How about we go to Gretna Green tonight, then? Skip the whole consent thing at Longbourn?" Darcy asked, giving Elizabeth a kiss on the cheek.

"What would my mother think! I suppose she would wring your neck for not allowing us to have a proper wedding, but I doubt she would, since she would be as charmed with you as I am!" Elizabeth exclaimed with a laugh, and Darcy kissed her again.

"Who's Mr. Winterbury?" Darcy asked with slight confusion.

"Don't ask. He's almost as bad as Mr. Collins, and looks twice as bad," Elizabeth said, suppressing a gag. "He's set his sights on my elder sister, Jane. My mother things he's the best thing to ever happen to the family, but the rest of the family can't stand him."

"I feel bad for your sister, then," Darcy said sympathetically. Elizabeth responded by shivering, and Darcy looked pale. "How selfish I am, locking you up in here while you catch your death of that rain!" Darcy ushered her out the door towards her room. "I'll talk to you later after you've had a bath and are warmed up."

With a quick peck on the lips he was gone down the hall, and Elizabeth sighed with happiness as she walked into her room. Only, she was unknowingly ambushed by three servants, who quickly got her out of her wet clothes and into a bath. Still, Elizabeth was too much in a dream world to notice.

Chapter 17

Posted on Monday, 26 November 2001

Darcy left the next day for London, which left heartache with all of the female guests at Pemberley. Georgiana was upset at the prospect of her brother going to London, which was very unsafe at any time of the year, and Elizabeth was upset (although she concealed it quite well) that her fiancée was gone (for no matter what anyone believes, she really did love him). Caroline was upset that her future husband (although he did not know this) was gone, and to her, it was three days less that she had to win him over.

The three days went by rather quickly, as Caroline took up acting as the almost-mistress of Pemberley. Elizabeth spent most of her time speaking with Georgiana and Mr. Bingley, of whom she had varying ideas. Mr. Bingley and Georgiana did seem to make a very good couple, despite the difference in their ages. Both had very quiet demeanors, although Mr. Bingley was much more outgoing than Georgiana was. Still, they would make a good match, even though Elizabeth had the idea in the back of her mind that Mr. Bingley was perfect for her sister, Jane.

Mr. Darcy returned very late the evening of the third day, when most of the household was asleep. Everyone except for Georgiana, who was impatiently awaiting her brother's return. Mr. Darcy was surprised to see her, wrapped in a blanket, sitting in his study.

"Georgiana? Are you all right?" Darcy asked, walking over to her with a mask of worry on his face.

"Oh, Fitz! I was wondering when you'd be home," Georgiana said with a smile.

"Georgiana, what's wrong?"

"What do you mean, what's wrong?"

"Georgiana Darcy, I know that you would not wait up for me unless you had something on your mind," Darcy replied firmly, and Georgiana just sighed.

"I received a letter from Lady Allred today, saying that she planned on having a ball this winter. I decided that I would wear my new white dress if she did, and I went into your room to try on some of Mother's jewelry with it," Georgiana began.

"And..."

"And, well, as I rummaged through to find a suitable ring, I noticed Mother's engagement ring was gone," Georgiana said quietly. "I think that someone here must have stolen it."

"Is that what you waited up to ask me about?" Darcy asked with a laugh. "Is that all?"

"Fitz, this is serious! We have to have the whole house searched! We'll have to call in the police to catch this perpetrator!" Georgiana exclaimed, tears coming to her eyes.

"Georgiana, there is nothing to worry about. I know exactly where the ring is," Darcy said reassuringly.

"You ... what?" Georgiana asked, confused, and then her face went grave. "No, Fitz. I don't believe you."

"What?"

"HOW COULD YOU!" Georgiana whispered angrily. "How could you ask Caroline to marry you!"

"You..." Darcy began, as he fell into his chair and burst out laughing. "You think I asked Caroline to marry me? That's ridiculous!"

"Well, then, where is the ring?"

"I'll have you know that I gave it to Miss Bennet," Darcy replied.

"You..." Georgiana's face lit up when she realized what that meant. How could she have been so stupid? "You two are getting married?"

"Yes, Georgie, we are." Darcy replied, and Georgiana squealed with delight.

"You mean she's going to be my sister?" Georgiana asked, jumping up and down as she gave her brother a huge hug. "I'm going to finally have a sister?"

"Yes, and yes. I had hoped that you would be happy," Darcy confessed, and Georgiana nodded.

"Are you joking? I'm ecstatic! But wait..." Georgiana realized, stopping in her merriment. "Have you told Caroline yet."

"I suppose I'll tell her tomorrow," Darcy said with a hesitant sigh.

"You're very brave, Fitz," Georgiana replied with a grin. "Good luck - you'll need it."

"All right, sleepyhead, it's time for you to get to bed," Darcy said in his best parental voice. Georgiana just nodded and happily ran up the stairs at the prospect of having a new sister.

The next morning, the entire party was in the dining room, busily eating breakfast, when Georgiana came down.

"Good morning, dear Georgiana," Caroline gushed, and Georgiana just smiled as she walked towards her seat. Then, having a brilliant idea, immediately rushed up to Elizabeth.

"Congratulations," she exclaimed, giving her future sister a huge hug. Elizabeth just smiled and looked warily at Darcy.

"Congratulation?" Caroline asked. "Congratulations for what?"

"Yes, Georgiana, we must know!" Louisa added.

"Miss Bennet is engaged..."

"Oh really! Miss Bennet, you sly thing, keeping us in the dark like that!" Caroline exclaimed, happy that Elizabeth was no longer a threat to her plans.

"To who are you engaged, Miss Bennet?" Louisa asked.

"To my brother," Georgiana added with a smile. She watched as Louisa's face drained of its color, and Caroline stood up cautiously.

"You mean ... Elizabeth ... and ... Mr. Darcy ... are... AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! "

Caroline's scream rattled throughout the house, but was not as loud as the sound of her body as she fainted and fell to the floor with a loud thump. Louisa was busy crying over her sister, whom she was afraid was dead. Mr. Hurst was getting a good laugh out of this, Elizabeth and Darcy were exchanging looks of laughter (and love), and Mr. Bingley was busy talking to Georgiana.

And while the house was in uproar for the next few minutes as Caroline's limp body was transported upstairs, Georgiana, Elizabeth, and Mr. Darcy had to admit that they were all in relatively good moods.

Chapter 18

Posted on Wednesday, 5 December 2001

Caroline's collapse (or Ducky's demise, as it had been dubbed in private) was the talk of the servants, and the rest of the party, for the entirety of the morning. Most comments were quite humorous (although to repeat them would be very rude to Caroline's 'fragile' condition). The doctor had been immediately called in to check on unresponsive Caroline, who lay in her bed as white as a ghost. The doctor had assured the party that Caroline was fine, was only in so much shock that she was asleep, and would probably wake up by dinnertime.

Mr. Hurst was glad to hear this, as he did not wish for dinner to be postponed while the sad, floppy group waited for Caroline to wake up. Louisa just kept crying next to her sister's bed while her husband cracked jokes, and Bingley stayed away from her room all together. He believed his sister was being a bit melodramatic for the occasion (mind you, he's not all that heartless, as he was very concerned with his sister's health).

Georgiana stayed only briefly, for looking at Caroline's unresponsive state made her want to be sick. Darcy, on the other hand, said in the room as long as it was necessary to, before giving his apologies as he headed for his study. It was not a lie when he said he had urgent business to attend to, for his wedding was business and he urgently wanted it to take place. Louisa looked upset when Darcy left the room and thought about her sister, which only made her cry more.

Elizabeth had briefly visited the limp Caroline until Louisa's cruel, hard stares at them became too much for her to bear. She hastily retreated to her room, where she found three letters waiting for her on her bureau. She recognized the first to be in her father's hand, and the other two from Jane and her mother. Elizabeth hastily ripped open her father's letter as she sat in a chair by the fire on this cold, rainy day.

It was a relatively long letter compared to the letters her father usually wrote, but compared to others, it was relatively short. Elizabeth skimmed quickly over the paper, laughing in all of the right spots.

My dearest Lizzy, no sooner had your mother and sisters gone out than my peace and serenity was broken by a most alarming of visitors. I was close to refusing to speak with him, but reluctantly gave in. He claimed that he wanted your hand in marriage, which seemed strange since you had not mentioned anything about him before. After assuring me of your consent to such a marriage, and brandish a letter which, after a thorough check, was in your hand, I gave him my consent. I hope nothing but the best for either of you, even though Mr. Darcy is taking away my sanest of daughters. I must admit that you found yourself a fine husband. I must confess, however, that my main motive of consent was the fact that I wanted to be present for your wedding, which I would not be able to do if you had gone to Gretna Green. I, as the rest of the family, will be waiting for your return in one week. God Bless You. Yours &tc.

Elizabeth just smiled at her father's letter, and laughed at how he was attempting to make her think he was upset at the marriage. Elizabeth was sure that her father would have been more than happy to speak with Mr. Darcy and to give him his consent. Elizabeth pushed aside that letter and warily opened up the one from her mother.

Have you no patience for my nerves, for you know not how negatively affected they were when I arrived home to hear from your father that you were engaged to Mr. Darcy! How dare you give me no warning of his coming! I hope you are satisfied, young lady, at causing me so much grief. But to think that you shall be married with a special license. Ten thousand a year! I shall go on distracted! I shall be the talk of the neighborhood, and imagine how jealous Lady Lucas will be! Oh, you must bring dear Mr. Darcy back to Longbourn as soon as possible, for the two of you must marry before he changes his mind. How cruel that I should not have been home to greet Mr. Darcy ...

The letter went on like this for some time, as Elizabeth noted, and, after being yelled at several times and having her fiancé praised, the letter ended. Elizabeth just rolled her eyes, and made sure to hide the letter from any prying (and possible blackmailing) eyes as she picked up her last and final letter, which was in Jane's hand. Elizabeth smiled, as she had not received a letter for the entire time she'd been at Pemberley, and was anxious to hear what she had to say.

Elizabeth, I cannot tell you how happy I am to hear about your engagement to Mr. Darcy. I hope that you are both very happy together, although I am sure you shall be. Mama was in hysterics when she first heard the news, but now spends her days worrying that Mr. Darcy will break off the engagement unless you are quickly married. Papa does nothing to discourage these comments, which makes Mama's worry increase and her nerves flair up. I fear all of the excitement is a bit trying for her nerves.

I must warn you, though, that Kitty was not in the best of moods about your engagement. At first hearing of it, she immediately locked herself in her room, only to emerge hours later. She says nothing about your engagements, and I suppose that she tunes out mother's ranting. I fear that she may take her anger out on you when you return home. I hope that you two may make amends before any unpleasantness begins, though. Mary says nothing substantial, only spouting quotes about the ideals of an obedient wife, and how improper your staying in the same residence as your fiancée is, which I won't continue into detail with.

Longbourn is just as you left it, and so is Meryton. Mr. Winterbury has called for dinner several times while you were away, and Mama is certain that he will propose to me shortly. I suppose I should be glad of his attentions, but to be honest, dear Lizzy, I neither want them nor seek them. I pray that he does not propose for I would much rather not marry him, to be honest. I almost wish for you to bring me a husband back with you, as I am sure that Mr. Darcy knows quite a few young men. I only tease you, Lizzy, for you know my disposition and wishes. I should so much like to marry for love, rather than for the fact that Mama finds the man rich and secure.

I cannot wait for your return in one week, and I hope that your journey is safe. Give my best wishes to Mr. and Miss Darcy. God Bless You, Yours &tc.

I almost wish for you to bring me a husband back with you, as I am sure that Mr. Darcy knows quite a few young men. Jane's words echoed in Elizabeth's head as she thought immediately of Mr. Bingley. They would make such a good match, Elizabeth thought. But Georgiana ...

"What are you smiling about?" Darcy's voice asked, startling Elizabeth in her dreamworld.

"Nothing. I was only reading something humorous in my sister's letter," Elizabeth replied as Darcy gave her a kiss on the cheek.

"How did your family react to our engagement?" Darcy asked.

"Quite well, considering that they know nothing of you, your background, or your character," Elizabeth replied, planting a kiss on Darcy's lips. "You could be a murderer or a highwayman for all we know."

"True," Darcy said, returning the kiss. "How shall I ever wait until our wedding? Are you quite certain you don't wish to travel to Gretna Green tonight?"

"Positive, Sir," Elizabeth replied, placing her letters in her lap. "I do believe my father collapse with grief if he was not allowed to see his daughter's wedding."

"Your father was very agreeable when I met with him," Darcy said.

"Yes. It sounds like he's rather taken with you, judging by the letter, although he won't admit that in person," Elizabeth said with a laugh.

"I should have like to meet with the rest of your family, but they were off in town," Darcy added, and Elizabeth smiled.

"Yes, my mama is very fond of shopping, as our my two youngest sisters."

"As is Georgiana."

"You shall meet them soon enough, for I hope we won't be waiting long for the wedding," Elizabeth said, looking deeply into Darcy's eyes.

"Nor do I. Georgiana and I will travel with you until London, as I have more business there. Hopefully you and your family can travel to London so wedding plans can be made up shortly," Darcy responded, and Elizabeth nodded.

"That seems like a very good plan," Elizabeth said, giving Darcy another kiss. "I change my mind. I'm marrying you for your sensibility."

"You have quite a good head of sense on your shoulders, as well," Darcy added.

"Sensibility and sense - sounds like a book my sister would read," Elizabeth added, and Darcy smiled.

"Or mine."

The two spent quite a good amount of time speaking with each other, until Georgiana interrupted their solace, expressing a wish to go riding with Elizabeth. As the two headed off onto the wet grounds, Elizabeth had a small sense of dread forming in the back of her mind as the prospects of returning home loomed in the near future.

Chapter 19

Posted on Wednesday, 5 December 2001

Most would wish that Caroline stayed in her deathly form, but she did not. (I feel your pain at this news) Sadly, she awoke three days later, just in time for lunch. A great screaming was heard on behalf of her sister when Louisa first found her sister awake. Caroline stayed in bed the rest of the day, immediately leaving the next with Louisa, Mr. Hurst, and Mr. Bingley for their home in London. Caroline would have stayed longer, but her embarrassment at what had happened at breakfast still loomed over her.

The week went by so quickly for Elizabeth that she was soon on her way to London. Georgiana and Darcy stayed with her until London, but that part of the journey seemed to go by the quickest. The three were engaged in lively conversation that the hours seemed to go by in the blink of an eye, and soon Darcy and Elizabeth unhappily parted, with the prospects of seeing each other within the week the only solace for the two lovebirds.

Every mile closer to Longbourn made Elizabeth worry more and more. She tried in vain to read her book, but the constant bumping and rattling of the carriage made her mind uneasy. Elizabeth had no clue how Kitty would react, or what Kitty would say about her engagement.

Why do I even worry? It is not as if Mr. Darcy ever showed Kitty any bit of particularity or interest in Kent? She acts as if I stole Mr. Darcy away from her! Elizabeth thought angrily.

One look out of the window told Elizabeth that they were coming up the way to Longbourn, and the hasty stop of the carriage confirmed that. Elizabeth was jolted from her seat as the carriage door opened, and Elizabeth was carefully helped out of the carriage.

" Elizabeth!" Mrs. Bennet yelled as she ran outdoors. "You are finally home!"

"It is good to be back."

"Do not vex me, child, for I know that you would much rather be at Pemberley that here! Oh, if only you had brought Mr. Darcy with you! Then we could begin immediately on plans for the wedding," Mrs. Bennet droned.

"Mama, Mr. Darcy invited us to his home in London to make up the plans," Elizabeth replied, causing Mrs. Bennet to exclaimed violently her joy at such news.

With this, Mr. Bennet, Mary, and Jane emerged from the house, all overjoyed to see Elizabeth returned home.

"Ah, Lizzy! I had thought that this would be the last trip for you for some time now, but you are to leave us soon!" Mr. Bennet replied, giving his favorite daughter a kiss on the cheek. "Are you tired of your family already?"

"No, father, and I doubt I ever will be," Elizabeth replied.

"Oh, Elizabeth! You must hurry and get inside! Mr. Winterbury is to come to dinner tonight, and you must look your best for him! He is very anxious to give you his congratulations, I believe," Mrs. Bennet replied, pulling Elizabeth towards the door while raising her eyebrows at Jane. "Among other things."

Elizabeth just smiled and walked towards Jane, giving her sister a huge hug.

"I missed you so, Jane," Elizabeth said. "But you look sad! Do not tell me you are not excited for tonight's dinner!"

"Elizabeth, do not tease! This is not the time!" Jane replied stiffly, but Elizabeth could detect the smallest of smiles on her face.

"I have seen the rest of the family, but not Kitty. Where is she?" Elizabeth asked.

"In her room."

"She would not grant me the pleasure of her company?" Elizabeth teased, and Jane shook her head.

"I think ... I think that you should go upstairs and speak with her before dinner, and get this whole mess out of the way," Jane replied, after some thought. Elizabeth just nodded, gave her sister one last hug, and walked cautiously into the house and up the stairs.

She stopped in front of Kitty's door, and took a deep breath. Please don't throw anything at me! Elizabeth prayed to her self as she raised her hand and knocked firmly on the oak door. A muffled reply was heard, which Elizabeth took as a 'come in' invitation.

"Kitty?"

Muffle mumble.

"Kitty, it's Elizabeth."

"I know who it is. Do you think me a simpleton?" was Kitty's snappy reply.

"Can we talk, Kitty?" Elizabeth asked.

"We're talking already."

"Kitty, I mean have a serious talk," Elizabeth replied. "Something has torn us apart, and I sincerely wish to mend our rift."

There was a long silence, so Elizabeth decided to make the most of it and continue on.

"Are you upset at me for accepting Mr. Darcy's proposal?" Elizabeth asked, walking over to where Kitty lay on her bed, and sitting down in a nearby chair. "Kitty?"

There was another long pause, and Elizabeth was close to grabbing Kitty and shaking an answer out of her. Finally, Kitty replied.

"He'll be at your wedding."

"Mr. Darcy? Of course. You can't have a wedding without the groom," Elizabeth teased, and Kitty just sighed.

"Colonel Fitzwilliam."

"Well, yes, I suppose he will be there, since he is Mr. Darcy's cousin..." Elizabeth said hesitantly.

"Do you ..."

"Do I what, Kitty?"

Pause. "Do you think he hates me?" Kitty asked timidly. "For rejecting him?"

Now it was Elizabeth's turn to pause and think. Did she tell Kitty that Colonel Fitzwilliam had been miserable every since she had rejected him, or should she flat out lie about his feelings for her. Why was everything so complicated!

"I don't really know," Elizabeth replied. "I don't know why he'd hate you, though."

"Because I rejected him."

"Kitty, is this what's bothering you?" Elizabeth finally asked, and Kitty nodded. "I'm sure he thinks minimally about what happened in Kent."

"I don't. It crosses my mind every second of the day," Kitty replied, a tear rolling down her cheek. "What if I made a mistake? What if that was my only chance to be a wife?"

"Kitty, I am sure that you will be admired wherever you go. If it was meant to be, then your dealings with Colonel Fitzwilliam are not yet over," Elizabeth replied.

"Do you believe so?" Kitty asked curiously.

"Yes. But you are only eighteen. You have your whole life to find that right person for you," Elizabeth added. "You should start getting ready for dinner. Mr. Winterbury is to be our guest." With that, Elizabeth walked towards the door.

"Are we friends again?" Kitty asked timidly.

"Of course, Kitty. We'll always be friends," Elizabeth replied with a smile as she quietly closed the door. Elizabeth happily walked to her room to prepare for the evening, with a picture of her fiancé implanted in her mind.

Chapter 20

Posted on Friday, 14 December 2001

London

Things between the Bennet sisters remained particularly calm for the next few days. Kitty and Elizabeth were on good terms after their conversation, and seemed closer than ever. Elizabeth had to admit that she was growing very close to her younger sister, who seemed so altered since Lydia's departure and marriage. Elizabeth had to confess that she was beginning to feel that she and Kitty were closer than she and Jane were, at the moment.

Mr. Winterbury continued to shower his attentions to Jane, who paid them as politely as possible without seeming cruel (although I suppose Jane would never be cruel, especially to an oaf like Mr. Winterbury). Mrs. Bennet ranted and raved endlessly, wondering when Mr. Winterbury would propose. Elizabeth and Jane hoped never, Mr. Bennet could care less about Mr. Winterbury, as he was more concerned over how far away his Elizabeth was going to be. Mrs. Bennet just cooed about how envious Mrs. Long will feel when Mr. Winterbury marries Jane.

Mr. Winterbury barely talked to Elizabeth that evening, although mentioning to her about her engagement.

"Miss Elizabeth, I must congratulate you on your engagement!" Mr. Winterbury had exclaimed, sitting down next to her (what he assumed would one day be his sister) with a huge smile on his face.

"Thank you, Mr. Winterbury."

"You have my warmest wishes towards a happy marriage," Mr. Winterbury added. "It is hoped that all can be happy in a marriage with a partner they can love and trust." With this last comment, Mr. Winterbury looked toward Jane with a smile on his face, something that Elizabeth couldn't help noticing and had to suppress a grimace (Mrs. Bennet also noticed, and had to suppress a scream of joy).

"Yes. That is my philosophy also."

"I hear you are to be married to a very substantial man in society, Miss Elizabeth. A Mr. Darcy of Derbyshire?" Mr. Winterbury asked.

"Yes. Have you ever heard of him?" Elizabeth asked curiously, praying that he wasn't some close acquaintance of William's.

"I have heard that he is very wealthy to the extent of at least ten thousand a year, although preferably more," Mr. Winterbury exclaimed, his eyebrows raised. "It is a fortune to your family."

"Yes, sir. It is."

"It looks well upon your family to marry so highly, as it will certainly throw your younger sisters into the paths of other rich men," Mr. Winterbury added with an unstated underlying meaning. Elizabeth just smiled, and ended the conversation there.

It was later decided that Elizabeth and her mother would stay in London, with the Gardiners, for a few days while they shopped for a wedding dress for Elizabeth. (Mrs. Bennet than decided this more by Elizabeth.) Elizabeth had decided that one of her fancy white dresses would suit her just fine, but Mrs. Bennet would not allow the opportunity to go to London go to waste, and they were off the next morning for London.

Elizabeth and her mother searched feverishly for three days trying to find the perfect wedding dress. Anything that Elizabeth remotely liked was immediately shot down by her mother, claiming it was not fancy enough for the wife of Mr. Darcy. Anything that Mrs. Bennet like was too frilly (or silly) for anyone in their right mind to wear, and was quickly rejected by Elizabeth. Finally, after three days, the perfect wedding dress was found. It was neither too fancy nor too simple, with a style of elegance and a reasonable price to match it. It was quickly ordered, and Elizabeth and her mother left with a smile on their faces that afternoon.

Now, we mustn't forget that the two did see something of Mr. and Miss Darcy while they were in town. An invitation had arrived, inviting the two to dinner one evening while they were in town, and had been readily accepted by Mrs. Bennet. Elizabeth was dreading the meeting, but Mrs. Bennet was overjoyed at the prospects of finally meeting her future son-in-law.

It is common knowledge that when you dread something, time just seems to fly by. In the matter of the blink of an eye, it was time to go to dinner at the Darcy townhouse, and Elizabeth's stomach was in a fit of butterflies being attacked by lizards (or whatever else eats butterflies. Elizabeth was too nervous to think about this one.)

Mrs. Bennet and Elizabeth were quickly shown to one of the many sitting rooms (different from Elizabeth's last visit) where Mr. and Miss Darcy sat formally (and Darcy handsomely) with huge smiles on their faces when they saw the Bennets.

"Hello, Mrs. Bennet, Miss Bennet," Georgiana said shyly in an almost whisper.

"Why, Miss Darcy, it is a pleasure to meet you at last! You have a very sweet room here, I must say! With such beautiful views!" Mrs. Bennet gushed, walking over to Miss Darcy. "And Mr. Darcy! A pleasure to meet you as well, for I was very much despaired over not meeting with you when you came to Longbourn!"

"As was I, ma'am," Mr. Darcy replied formally.

"You had just caught us out shopping, which is highly unlikely for my family, but was necessary at the time. I suppose Miss Darcy must be forever shopping," Mrs. Bennet asked, and Georgiana just blushed.

"Indeed," was Georgiana's only reply.

"And I was very sorry that you did not meet the rest of my girls, for they will be your new sisters-in-law, and were very upset at not meeting you," Mrs. Bennet rambled, and Elizabeth tried to discreetly roll her eyes.
The rest of the evening continued on like this. Mrs. Bennet ranted and praised, Miss Darcy kept her mouth shut and her eyes to her plate, and the two lovebirds kept staring at each other with intense love. (I won't bore you with all of the details of the evening, as I am sure all of Mrs. Bennet's comments will either 1. Make you fall sleep, or 2. Make you violent. )

Overall, the evening could be considered a success to Mrs. Bennet, who was pleased to be acquiring such a handsome, rich son-in-law, and had set her sights now on finding rich husbands for the rest of her single daughters.

Chapter 21

Posted on Friday, 14 December 2001

The engagement dinner was held two nights before the wedding, at Netherfield. Mr. Hurst had decided to lease Netherfield for a year, as it was rumored that it was a very good piece of land for hunting (as hunting was the only thing Mr. Hurst woke up for, besides eating). The Hursts had gracious, although reluctantly, allowed the Bennets to use their home for the party, and Mrs. Bennet had readily accepted the invitation.

Most of the neighborhood was there, including the Longs (who were quite envious, thank you very much) and the Phillips, who were also envious yet joyful at the fact of having such a wealthy nephew-in-law. Miss and Mr. Bingley had also been invited, and accepted, along with Colonel Fitzwilliam, who had strangely turned down the invitation. Although to Darcy, Elizabeth, and Kitty, the reason for his rejection was not unknown. Mrs. Bennet was upset that such an eligible man was not to be in attendance, and cried for almost two days straight.

The night began calmly and contentedly, as Elizabeth stood near the doorway with Darcy and welcomed their guests. Both would occasionally steal looks towards the other, but tried their best to focus all of their attentions to those who had come to celebrate with them. (There would be no time after the wedding, as Darcy and Elizabeth would immediately leave for London as to be there by nightfall). No real events occurred until Mrs. Bennet found one suitable gentleman among the group, a particularly friendly gentleman.

"Jane! Lizzy! Come here," Mrs. Bennet said, ushering them towards her. Elizabeth paid her excuses to Charlotte Lucas and went over with her sister and mother. "Do you see that man there?" Elizabeth squinted the gestured direction.

"Oh, you mean Mr. Bingley," Elizabeth said, after a moment's hesitation.

"Mr. Bingley! Is that not the most handsomest name ever?" Mrs. Bennet asked. "Besides Darcy, of course dear Lizzy."

Jane just mumbled a reply, and Mrs. Bennet seemed to be satisfied with that.

"I have heard that he has five thousand a year! Is he not a dream, Jane?" Mrs. Bennet asked, and Jane just gave a small nod, although Elizabeth could tell he was certainly captivating Jane's attention. "Although I am very shocked at you, Elizabeth, for not mentioning him sooner to myself and your sister. Mr. Winterbury is nothing compared to him." Mrs. Bennet whispered this last bit under her breath, as Mr. Winterbury was attending the party with his sister.

"Yes, Mama, he is," Jane agreed at length, and Elizabeth smiled inwardly.

It was at this time that Miss Bingley came over, with Mrs. Hurst, to speak with Jane, Elizabeth and Mrs. Bennet. They had, for the entirety of the conversation, been watching them. To Caroline, it had been obvious that Mrs. Bennet was setting her sights on Mr. Bingley to marry one of the Bennet girls, and neither Caroline nor Louisa would have that happen. (Their excuse was, of course, that they didn't want to have Georgiana's fragile feelings hurt).

"Hello, Miss Elizabeth. I hope you are well?" Caroline asked, walking coldly towards Elizabeth.

"Yes, I am well," Elizabeth replied. Mrs. Bennet gave a small cough, and Elizabeth just hurriedly realized where she was. "Oh, Miss Bingley, Mrs. Hurst, this is my mother and my eldest sister, Jane."

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Bennet, and you, Miss Bennet," Louisa replied, and Caroline just nodded.

"And you, Mrs. Hurst. I must complement you on your fine decoration of Netherfield. It is so good to have new neighbors, especially those with taste," Mrs. Bennet complemented, and Mrs. Hurst just smiled.

"How long you expect to be in the neighborhood, Miss Bingley?" Jane asked, and Caroline gave a small smile.

"My brother and I are planning on returning to London sometime after the wedding, probably within a few days. I must warn you, Miss Elizabeth, that we will most likely be visiting you in London shortly, as I, as well as my brother am very anxious to see Georgiana again," Miss Bingley replied, and Mrs. Bennet looked quite confused at this statement.

"We have great hopes for another union to be taking place shortly. One that will most likely combine two great families of England," Mrs. Hurst said more bluntly, and Mrs. Bennet finally got the whole meaning of what was being said. She was a bit shocked at this straightforward remark, but tried to cover up her surprise as best she could.

"Well, I hope that this such union will soon take place, so I can give my warmest congratulations to the couple," Mrs. Bennet added with a small smile.

"As do we," Miss Bingley replied as the two ladies walked on to speak with another acquaintance.

"Well, I never!" exclaimed Mrs. Bennet in a whisper when she was sure that the two ladies were out of hearing range. "To be so curt as to say such a thing!"

"Mama, I am sure that they had the best intentions. I am sure that they merely wished to inform me that Mr. Bingley and Miss Darcy had something between them. The wished that I did not hope for something more and get hurt in the process," Jane replied, and Elizabeth was overcome with her sweetness and ability to see good in people.

"I am sure that cannot be it, however right you may be!" Mrs. Bennet replied angrily. "Lizzy, was there ever any peculiar regard on either party's side when you went to Pemberley."

"Mama! This is neither the time nor place to discuss this!" Elizabeth replied bitterly.

"Elizabeth ."

"Fine. There was a small bit, yes, on Miss Darcy's side. I am not sure of Mr. Bingley's side, but I did not speak with him very much. He did seem to be very attentive to Miss Darcy, though," This was a peculiar answer, because Elizabeth did not want to raise her mother's hopes, nor Jane's. But Elizabeth did not want to lower any chances that Georgiana had with Mr. Bingley if the two really were, truly, in love.

Mrs. Bennet was not satisfied with this answer, but kept her distaste hidden as much as possible. The rest of the evening was spent agreeably, although Mrs. Bennet refused to clap after Georgiana had timidly played a piece beautifully on the pianoforte for the group. Elizabeth sighed as she realized that the next evening she was to be 'Mrs. Darcy.' She did not mind this thought, but hungrily awaited the moment when she would become Mr. Darcy's wife.

Conclusion

Posted on Friday, 14 December 2001

It was one of those weddings that rivals all others. Elizabeth was dressed splendidly, and most commented that she appeared to be as beautiful as an angel, as graceful as a princess, and holy as a saint. Darcy looked very formal and handsome in his outfit, and many girls envied Elizabeth after the wedding. The ceremony went off without a hitch and before too long, Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth were married.

The Darcys immediately left for London afterwards, even with all of Mrs. Bennet's pleadings to stay (where, I have no idea.) Mr. and Mrs. Darcy calmly rejected the plans, and were on their way to London to spend their honeymoon together. (But we won't go into that).

It can be said that Mrs. Bennet cried - she cried a great deal. Mrs. Bennet was overjoyed that her daughter was marrying so well, into such a rich family. She also had great hopes that she would soon be watching Jane marry, to either Mr. Winterbury or any other suitable, rich young man that came into the neighborhood (Mr. Bingley, perhaps? I know many people would be pleased.)

Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst had grimaces on their faces throughout the entire ceremony. (I also have it on good authority that Caroline burst out into tears when she returned to Netherfield.) Mr. Bingley had nothing but joy for the happy couple, and wished that he too could be so happy in a relationship. Georgiana was overjoyed at finally having a sister, especially one that she loved so dearly, and couldn't wait until she was back in London.

One other guest cannot be forgotten, and must be said before this story can end. Colonel Fitzwilliam attended the wedding. He, however, stood in the back of the church and looked gloomily upon the happy couple. It could not be said what he was thinking, but he left abruptly before the ceremony had ended by slipping outside quietly, and no one seemed to know that he had been there. No one except for, well, Kitty.

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