Walk In The Clouds

By Lydia H.

Jump to new as of June 22, 2002
Jump to new as of June 30, 2002

Chapter 1

Posted on Friday, 31 May 2002

This story is loosely based on the movie with Keanu Reeves and Antina Sanchez-Gijon. I'm putting "Jane's Angles" on hold for a while with a serious case of writer's block and exams and decided to start this story. Enjoy!

Grasping onto the moist rail, Captain William Darcy stepped on to the plank in the harbor of San Francisco. He had been at war for 3 years and in that time he was never able to see his fiancée, Caroline Bingley. He loved her, the only thing that kept him going while oversees was the thought that one day they would be reunited and married. The last time he saw her was when she saw him to the train station that hot summer in 1941. "I'll wait for you." she replied through tears. "You better come back safe to me!" And with that and a final kiss he boarded the train that would take him to his station for training. After the attack on Pearl Harbor his services were needed to serve the common good of America against Germany and their Allies.

For 3 long years he had been stationed in Europe, till the attack on D-Day. He was one of the many that survived. He witnessed just about everything. Including the death of his partner, for Darcy joined the air force and from then he became a pilot. His plane was shot down in the South Pacific but through a miracle of God, he survived, but Jimmy, did not. And now he was to see Caroline again. He wrote to her only 3 weeks before hand telling her of his arrival. How he couldn't wait to see her. She, to him, was worth the fight.

His reflections were interrupted as hundreds of other soldiers behind him pushed him along the ramp onto the dock. A soldier behind him tapped him on the shoulder the way down.

"What you thinking about, sport" he asked mischievously. "Got a girl waiting here?"

"Yep. Man, I can't wait to see her." he replied rather dreamily.

"Oh, let me guess. You met her on Friday, dated her on Saturday, married on Sunday, and shipped out on Monday?"

Laughing at the common situation he said, "Well actually, all of the above, except I shipped out early. We're only engaged."

An appearance of shock fell over his face. "You mean, you've been engaged to this broad for 3 years!"

"Yeah, strange as it may seem. She's meeting me here today!"

As they reached the dock floor they parted. "Good luck soldier." the man said.

"You too." he called back. Then William spied the harbor for the blonde curls of Caroline.

Glancing all around him he was soon lost in all the waving of flags, dipped kisses, and the twirling of ladies in the air. Turning behind him he saw that man. Yet this time a woman holding a small child approached him. Crying she wrapped her arms around him as she set down the little girl with a pink dress and brown ringlets as he opened his arms wide. It was the first time that he ever saw his daughter. Darcy smiled. He was envious.

Waiting for almost an hour, the port was cleared and only the occasional uniform and woman passed by him. Yet no Caroline. He was frightened. What if something happened to her. He would write her everyday, yet he received only a few letters in response over the last few years. What if she forgot or didn't want to see him there? This thought really scared him as he set off in the direction of her apartment.

Walking down the street he was welcomed with salutes and pats on the back. People were glad to see him, but why wasn't she? Crossing the busy parkway, he scampered along the sidewalk with his duffel bag slung over his shoulder. Entering the same familiar building he climbed the 3 flights of stair to her apartment.

"This is it," he said to himself. "3G." And with that he knocked steadily and loudly on the door.

A muffled "Coming" reached his ears. And a moment later the turning of locks was heard, and then there she was. Standing there in a housedress with her hair in a knot and an apron covered in food was wrapped around her slim waist. "Will", she whispered to herself as though in disbelief. Not a moment later she was in his arms.

"Oh my goodness. Oh honey." she said while stroking his hair. Turning her face to his he passionately kissed her there in the hallway. Crying she pulled out of his embrace to look at him. Cupping her mouth in her hands, he kept his hands around her waist as tears poured down her cheeks. "Oh darling, when did you get in?"

"Today, I wrote you about it. I was afraid that something happened to you." he said while wiping tears off of her cheeks.

It was then that she noticed her appearance. "I look terrible, I'm so embarrassed!" she said while dusting flour off of her apron and hands. "I was making dinner when you came. And my hair in this dreadful bun."

"You are the most beautiful sight that I have seen in years." he said pulling her closer to him. "Darling, I've missed you so much. You don't know how I have longed to have a glimpse of you."

She seemed to be effected by his compliment, and stepping back she opened the door to let him in. "Come on in. The place is a mess, so forgive me." she said while tidying up the odds and ends around the house.

"It looks perfect to me." he said while staring straight at her. Stepping up behind her, he wrapped her in his arms as she turned to face him. "Caroline, you don't know how long I have dreamed to see you again." while running his finger along the edge of her chin. "But why weren't you there today? I sent you a letter telling you about it. Did you never get that one?"

"Oh no I got it. Along with the other ones. But they were just to frightening to read, with you always talking about war. It upset me to read them. But I kept them all see." she said while pulling out a drawer to reveal hundreds of letters. The majority was never even opened.

He was hurt by this. He spent his entire day on those letters, they were his only form of communication to her, and she didn't seen to care. Already she seemed changed to him.

"Oh darling, don't be upset with me." she said while wrapping her arms around his neck. "We're together now, that's all that matters."

"But I talked about us, and our future together in them." he replied disappointed.

"Well I already got you a job sweetie for when you came back."

"You did?" he replied hesitantly. "What is it?"

"Selling rings and chocolates. You know like the Mother's Day gifts. Anyway, your new boss, Mr. Lexington wants you to start next week. And he wants you to wear your uniform, he seems to think that they sell better if they're from a soldier."

Hurt, William replied, "But I wanted to try to get a job at a firm or a bank or something. Move out of the city. Get married, start a family, support you."

"Well we can still do that, but right now you need to sell those chocolates. We have to have money to get married on." she replied with her arms around his neck. "Besides I didn't even know about this."

"I told you about them in the letters."

"But honey, I already explained that. Listen Will, I don't want to start an argument, your first day back, so let's just talk about this later." she said. "But first let's sell the chocolates, make some money and then settle down."

Reluctantly he agreed. "Okay, I'll sell them." he said. And with that he was to be aboard the next train to Sacramento.

Chapter 2

Posted on Friday, 31 May 2002

That following day he found himself again on a train and saying good-bye to Caroline all over again. It was heartbreaking to him. He already experienced being apart from her for 3 years. He wanted to get married, to have her as his wife. But this is what she wanted him to do so they could get married. So he found himself on a southbound train.

Kissing her farewell he boarded and quickly found his seat. Waving out the window to her he dutifully blew her a kiss and a smile to help her be without him for a while.

With the size of his baggage he had to choice but to store it, but when the train moved, so did he. Steadying himself he attempted to keep his feet planted on the floor. But without much success. That is until he saw her. William is engaged yes, and faithful; but he had to admit that she was a beautiful woman. Even though he is engaged he is still a man, a man with eyes. She seemed nervous and foreign as she made her way through the car. It turned out that her seat was right in front of his. Yet her suitcase was massive. Looking at her distinct features he noticed a cascade of wavy brown curls, styled to the fashion yet still with a trace of independency. Planted in her pretty face was a pair of the most beautiful brown eyes William had ever seen. Her face, though not Miss America pretty was lovely in its own way. Her rosy lips and cheeks that melted into a half tan and half pale complexion. Yet the redness of her eyes and bags under her eyes showed that she was not having a very good week.

Stumbling along she made her way down the aisle and glanced up at the overhead storage area while checking her ticket. But at that same moment, she turned her face slowly to look at him. It was then that he realised that he was staring at her. A quick smile and blush from both of them as they returned to their work.

Then suddenly a great clash and bang was sounded at the train hit some rough course. Losing his balance in the unexpected situation, she fell down with him. And that is how they landed. He on top of her. Their faces were so close and their breath upon one another. Lifting himself up on his arms, he regained his mind first as he sat up on his knees and helped her up as well. Their eyes never left each other. They didn't even realize that their hands were still entwined in each other, until she looked on the ground. All of their luggage was spread across the floor. And the other passengers were no different. Scrambling back down on a fours, they grabbed for their clothes and items. Each one apologizing more than the other.

"I am so incredibly sorry," she murmured. It caught his attention.

"Oh no, don't worry about it. We both couldn't have helped it. Lets blame the train instead." he said while reaching for his clothing. She smiled a little as it reached her eyes. Standing up after organizing their luggage, they met the others eyes once again. But this time it was hard to break the spell.

Her eagerness to be seated settled that as she held out her gloved hand. "I'm Elizabeth Bennet." she said.

"William Darcy." he replied back while shaking her hand. "How do you do?"

After a sigh and quick thought she replied. "About the same as you. Completely humiliated." That got him to laugh.

"Do you need help with that?" he asked pointing towards her suitcase.

"If you don't mind." she replied handing it to him. With one motion he swung it up into the compartment and closed the lid. "Thank you." she said with a warm smile.

All he did was smile back as they both took their seats. Yet she still could feel his gaze on her.

At that moment, however, the ticket master came by, demanding to see their tickets. Pulling out their tickets, they didn't think anything else of it.

Later that day, Will stepped off of the train with a bit of hesitation and confusion. Glancing around him, he was supposed to be boarding a bus to Sacramento from there. But there was a bit of excitement building up in his stomach. "Must be the food." he thought. And from there he took off towards the bus. Yet something was about to happen, he knew it.

After finally finding his way to the bus top, yeah right he would ask for directions, he stepped up the stairs with a spring to his step. Don't ask him why. There was just that feeling. That gut feeling when you know that something big is about to happen. Showing his ticket the middle-aged female driver, he stepped into the row, finding a place to sit. It was then that he looked up at the same time that she did.

Shock flew through his body. He saw her again, what are the odds? "Elizabeth, right?" he asked while he passed her.

"Yes William." she said with a smile, a beautiful smile, William thought.

Loading his luggage into the compartment, and this time it didn't fall he inquired after her seat. "Oh, go ahead and take it. No one is sitting here."

"Thanks," he replied. The tension and uneasiness between them built by the time the bus took off. Unaware of what to say, they again noticed how close that they were. Yet they would never be as close as they were on the train.

About 20 minutes into the ride he could stand the silence no longer. "So, Elizabeth. Where are you from?" he asked.

"Outside of Carmel. You?", said replied turning her head to face him.

"San Francisco actually."

"Hmmmm. I've heard a lot of interesting stories about that town."

"Yeah. Home sweet home, huh?" he asked with a laugh.

"It certainly is." The same silence fell in-between them once more. It lasted several minutes before Elizabeth spoke again. "What branch are you in?" she said nodding to his uniform.

"Oh that. Air Force."

"Really. Was it dangerous?" she replied with interest.

"Quite."

"Were you ever hurt." she asked, but she suddenly corrected herself. "Oh, I'm sorry. I shouldn't be asking you that."

"Nah, don't worry about it." he said glancing at her. "But yes, I was shot down in the Pacific."

"Oh my goodness." she replied. "I'm so sorry."

"Actually, I was quite lucky. They're were 5 out of 30 that survived that mission."

"That's a blessing. Most people aren't so fortunate."

"Yep. I sometimes wonder though, 'Why them, why not me?'. But obviously it wasn't my time, or I wouldn't be here talking to you today." he said smiling at her. "Besides, the thought of my fiancée kept me going."

"How long have you been engaged then?"

"3 years."

"That's quite a while. You must really love each other."

"We do." as they shared a smile. Suddenly the bus came to a halt, as 3 young men climbed into it. Glancing around they searched for any available seat. Spotting a young woman sitting near the window, even if she did have a man next to her, they came and sat behind her attempting to flirt. They didn't seem to be together, as he took no notice of the men and she was glancing out of the window. Leaning over the back of her seat one of them muttered into her ear.

"Hey there sweetheart. You busy tonight?" he asked.

"Yes, unlike some people, I have a life." she said quietly with determination. At that they retreated, yet that wouldn't keep them away for long.

"So what your name cutie?" one asked. But she didn't reply. "You afraid of me honey? There's nothing to be afraid of." he said touching her shoulder.

"Leave me alone." she cried. But that didn't stop them either.

Finally he could take no more. William, turning around, spoke to the men. "The lady wants to be left alone, so leave her alone. Simple as that."

"What are you, her dad?" one asked.

"I would leave her alone if I were you." Elizabeth upon hearing this turned to face William, yet she could not meet his gaze. One of the men shoved him, and standing up, his 6'0 foot muscular frame, scared them a bit. "Leave me and her alone." he demanded softly but full of warning.

"Who says I have to?" replied one of the men.

"Me!" he said back.

"William, please, don't..." Elizabeth quietly asked as she pulled on his sleeve. But he wasn't turning back now. Especially when the main one lunged at him. But with one duck and jab they were involved in a series of fists.

Slamming on her brakes, the bus driver stopped the bus and broke it apart. Grabbing their bags she all but threw them off the bus. As he was leaving William turned to glance back at Elizabeth. Her mouth was open as she stared at him with an apology written in her eyes as she tried to mouth the words. But nothing came out. As the bus pulled away they locked their eyes as she stared at him from her window and he from where he was standing. Both of them felt guilty as they both fled from sight. The only thing on their mind however, was this, "I shall never see him/her again." And that saddened their thoughts.

Chapter 3

Posted on Sunday, 2 June 2002

He must have walked for miles. His back ached from his load, sweat was running down his neck and shirt, and dust from the deserted roads was kicked up on his clothes. (Darcy fans, you may now swoon!!!) William, after being kicked off the bus, went in one direction; while the men went in another direction. Good thing too. For he was still angry with them. He didn't feel bad at all of being thrown out, he was glad that he stood up for her. But for as long as he lives, he will never forget that look. The look of shock and surprise as she stared down at him from her window seat. Maybe it was the way that she pressed her face against the glass, or how her eyes had softened with regret. Who knows? But the thought of never seeing her again sent a pain through him. "Pity." he thought. "She was the nicest girl I ever met."

As he was contemplating her, a cry was sounded from around the corner. But why? This was a deserted road surrounded by woods on either side. Who would be here? As he turned the corner his breath caught in his throat. There she was. Sitting on her upturned suitcase fiddling with her gloves in her hand. Her face was turned down but he could faintly see the tears as they fell from her cheeks. Stopping dead in his tracks he was amazed to see her. What was she doing here? and why? But more importantly, who hurt her enough to make this woman cry? Was it him and his fight with the other men?

Stepping forward, her head sprang with surprise and her face showed it more. Shock and embarrassment was written across her face as she stared at him, and his appearance. His hat was thrown into his bag, and his jacket was over his shoulder. The white shirt that he wore was unbuttoned at the top with spots of dirt stained on his once clean outfit.

"Elizabeth", he whispered. At this she quickly wiped away her tears and stood up unexpectedly. Pulling out his handkerchief he offered it to her as she silently accepted.

"You'll have to forgive me." she muttered through the cloth.

"Oh no." he whispered. "Don't worry about it."

After a moment of silence it was her turn to speak. "I've caused you so much grief today. And this is the icing I suppose." With that she gave him back his handkerchief. His hands motioned for her to keep it as she grasped it in her hand.

"You need it more than I do." he replied with a laugh, as she smiled at his remark. "Was it something I did?" he asked hesitantly.

"Oh no," she replied quickly. "You did nothing. You've been nothing but kind to me all day. And you were the first man to ever stand up for me."

After a moment of silence, "You can tell me anything." he softly replied. At this she looked him in the eyes. Normally she would never do this, but for some reason, she trusted him.

"Oh, it's just my parents." she replied while wiping a tear from her cheek. "And I told them ... I told them that..." in between tears and hiccups.

"Shhhh, it's okay, you can tell me." as he sat on his knees to be at her level of sitting. Stroking her arm he encouraged her to continue.

"The thing is ... I'm married." she said to the floor. "And I told my parents that I was engaged. And, 3 days ago, we were married. But then my fiancé got angry, and he didn't want to see them. He walked out as we were going to our honeymoon! This was 2 days ago. But I wrote them 2 weeks ago telling them that we were going to come down together." she said through her hands. "He completely over-reacted telling me that we were moving too fast and I was trying to control him. He's not coming, and he wants to get a divorce." Here a flood of tears streamed down her cheeks. "But my parents know that we got married. They planned all these parties and ceremonies to confirm it, but he walked out." Suddenly a flood of tears prevented her from going on further. "Now, I have to go there and tell them that ... that ... there no marriage and no husband. How am I supposed to tell them that?"

"They're your parents, they'll understand." he said comfortingly.

"But they're so different than that. My mother was so proud and telling everybody that I finally got a husband. We have very old traditions. How could I break those?"

"What traditions?" he asked.

"Well my father is English and my mother is Italian. They aren't accustomed to broken promises, especially marriages. My mother the most though. She still believes the old rules from Italy, that when you are married, you don't break your vows. But she thinks that we are married. What would she say then?"

"I'm so sorry Elizabeth." he replied sympathetically.

"I mean, it would be so much easier if I had a husband to go home with." she said without consideration.

It was then that William looked at his hand that was on her arm. But that caught his attention. His wedding ring. Caroline had insisted on giving it to him early. He was glad of that now. "What if you did?" he asked quietly.

"What?" she responded bringing her face to look at him.

"What if you did have a husband to bring home." he replied while holding up his hand. She stared at his ring.

"I can't ask you to do that."

"You don't have to ask. I'm offering." he said wiping away her tears. "I'll stay for a few days and claim that work calls me away. Just say that I walked out on you. Make me the victim of their anger, not you."

"You would do that?" she asked with a look of shock.

"Absolutely."

"But you have done so much for me already. Why would you want to do this?"

"I'm a soldier," he said with a smile. "We help those in need."

After some thought she simply replied, "Okay." To this they both smiled.

"Well there's no point to us sitting here all day." he said standing up.

"No," she said getting up as well. "There is none." Reaching for her bag he saw her hand.

"Oh wait a minute." he said as he began to dig through his bag. Pulling out a box labeled "Lexington's Fine Jewelry and Chocolates" he opened it. Showing it towards her, he simply said, "Pick one." and motioning to the rings.

"Oh goodness." she muttered with a laugh as she eyed the rings with care. Picking up a plain silver one with a diamond in the middle he replied like an honest salesman, "Lovely choice Miss." Laughing she handed him the ring as he picked up her left hand and slipped it on her finger.

"Shall we?" he asked picking up her suitcase and motioning towards the road.

"We shall." she laughingly replied. But his look of confusion was funnier to her as he watched her, not travel down the road, but cutting through a small pile of bushes off of the road. "This way." she said motioning to him.

Setting off towards her, she pulled back the bushes. He, not knowing what to expect, followed reluctantly. What he saw surprised him. When he cut past the branches he gazed out onto the most beautiful sight he had ever seen. There, cut out in a little valley, was an Italian villa surrounded by acres of vineyards. The house was traditional and rustic with the surrounding settings, such as a winery and stables, captured his breath. She walked and stood beside him.

"The house has been here for years. It was in my mother's family. When she married my father, there were no other boys, so he inherited it when they were married."

"It's beautiful." he replied breathless.

"We call it 'Le Nubi'; it means 'The Clouds'." she said with a glance in his direction.

"Absolutely beautiful." he said again, but never taking his eyes off the country.

"I have lived here all my life." she said glancing out around. "When I was a girl, my sisters and I would run up and down the aisles of the vineyards and pick off the grapes. My father would get so mad." A look of far-off memories entered her face as she viewed the setting.

He liked hearing about her memories; she looked beautiful when she had that smile on her face. William didn't even realize that he was staring at her until she glanced over at him with question in her eyes. "What?" she questioned with a smile.

"Nothing." he said shaking his head out of his stare.

"Well, we can't stand here all day." she said sighing to herself as she picked up her handbags.

Motioning for her to go first, he said, "After you." And with that, they descended into the valley.

Chapter 4

Posted on Sunday, 2 June 2002

Walking in between the rows and rows of vineyards, she in front of him, they were silent. Each was thinking about the other. But the main thought was, "I will see him/her again." Their situation was odd, they both realized that. But for some reason, neither of them minded much. In most situations they would never agree to do this. Yet there was this feeling, a feeling of comfort in both of them. They trusted one another.

As they approached the house, Elizabeth stopped and turned to him. A look of hesitation was in her eyes. "Please don't change your mind" William kept repeating in his mind.

"I just wanted to let you know that ... well ... my family may seem a little odd at first, because they don't know you. But after a while, it'll be alright."

"Hey don't worry," he said squeezing her hand. "I've been through worse situations than this before." he said with a smirk. Smiling back at him they held their gaze before a loud screech was heard.

"Elizabeth!!!!!" the woman shouted from the upper window. Turning sharply, she looked up at the woman and waved. The woman was around 50 or so, dark hair and eyes with sharp features. She was a portly woman wearing a flowered chintz dress under an apron. Running from the window, he heard calls and shouts in Italian as she crossed the house. Arriving at the entrance she went through the 2 wooden open doors into a courtyard filled with fountains and stone benches. Tile was paved across the floor as servants and keepers looked up from their work at their arrival. Running towards Elizabeth they shouted their hellos as they grabbed her up in a mound of hugs and kisses on her cheeks. It was then that they began to chat busily in their native language of Italian as Elizabeth joined them.

Suddenly a woman a few years older than Elizabeth ran out of the house. Her features were exactly the opposite of Elizabeth's. She had dirty-blonde hair with dark blue eyes and a fairer complexion. They ran to each other, as William heard shouts of "Jane", which he assumed was the girl's name. 3 other girls came out of the house; one in glasses, one in a short skirt and low top, and one imitating the second girl. They walked towards Elizabeth with less excitement than the first, and gave her simple hugs as they passed along. The girl in the short skirt however, began to eye William's uniform, which he had put back on. Smiling and winking at him, he stared in disbelief of her.

The same woman from the window ran out and hugged Elizabeth. "My dear girl!!!" she shouted, "you will be the death of me, I'm sure, with all your unexpected coming and goings!"

"But mother," she began. "I wrote to you..."

"Anyway child," and spying William she commented, never taking her eyes off of him. "And who is this?"

But then, before she could speak, her father came out of the house and gave her a hug and kiss on her forehead. "I'm very glad that you are back my dear." he commented sincerely as he kissed her hand.

"Thank you father." she said while leaning it to kiss his cheek. "It's good to be back." Noticing William standing on the outskirts she turned towards him and stood next to him. Taking his arm she said, "This is William Darcy," and after a pause. "My husband." A silence filled the room as everyone stared in disbelief at the young man. "These are my sisters Jane, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia." said motioning towards each name as he shook their hand. "My mother, Isabella Bennet; and my father, Edward Bennet." she finished as he shook their hands in respect.

They all stared dumbfoundly at him. "Your husband?" her mother said. "He is your husband?" she said again.

"Well this is an honor." Mr. Bennet said kindly but forcefully. William had never felt so awkward before in his life.

"Oh my goodness, I fear I shall faint." Mrs. Bennet exclaimed as she clung onto her husband for support. "Why you are so handsome young man." she said. "And tell me, what is your line of work?"

"Mother." Elizabeth pleaded.

But soon they were spared of any more embarrassing comments, when Mr. Bennet shooed them all into the house to finish their chores. "Welcome to the family." Mr. Bennet replied as 2 helpers took away their baggage. "We were about to have dinner. But I shall allow you to go to your room first to clean up and change." Going back towards the house he stopped at the door and said. "Are you coming?" and with that they followed after him.

After following Elizabeth and her father through the house, he led them upstairs to their room. William took in everything that he saw. The house was so rustic and quaint. Everything seemed to be an Italian antique as they climbed the stairs. Along the way Mr. Bennet pointed out little tidbits about the house and its history and the many things that they saw. William was impressed.

Arriving at an open door they stepped into the room to reveal one of the main bedrooms. It was white washed with a hint of the old country. A balcony was off to the right as their window with only a white sheer curtain blowing in the breeze as the doors had been opened to let in the light. A wooden bed was placed in the center of the room with a white spread covering it. It was a beautiful room. Off to the left was a bathroom as Mr. Bennet told them of fresh towels and accessories while he stepped out of the room.

"Dinner is in 30 minutes. But until then, just make yourself at home."

"Thank you pappa." Elizabeth replied as William nodded his thanks.

Mr. Bennet pulled William over as Elizabeth began to open her suitcase. "After dinner, meet me in my office, its the first left from the dining room." And with that he left.

Turning to meet his eyes, Elizabeth smiled. "You can shut the door if you want." she observed while he closed it behind him.

"I'll sleep on the floor tonight." he said after a moment while she was putting her clothes away. He began to follow suit as she nodded her agreement.

"Once they get to know you, it won't be quite so strange." she said, imitating her words from before.

"They're great." he said. "I've never heard anyone speak Italian so quickly." he added with a laugh.

She laughed as well. "Yes were quite unusual." Remembering something she looked up at him. "What did my father say to you before he left?"

"To meet him in his office."

Laughing at his nervous expression she said, "Don't worry he won't question you, I don't think." her face became serious as she said, "Thank you so much for this. One day I'll make it up to you. Though I'm not sure how."

"Don't worry about it. It's the least that I can do."

"But you're doing so much for a person that you met 7 hours ago. Why are you doing this for someone you've known less than a day?"

He thought a moment before replying. "Because, strange as it may seem, but something told me to do this. I trust you, I want to help you. For some reason it feels like I have known you for so long."

"I know what you mean."

"But you know what?" he asked. "I'm glad that I did this." And with a smile, they went down to dinner ... together.

Chapter 5

Posted on Sunday, 2 June 2002

As they stepped into the dining room, all stood by their chairs waiting for Mrs. Bennet. William smiled at their stares of amazement. He felt completely out-of-place. Taking the offered spot beside Elizabeth, William stood behind his chair as he felt everyone's gaze. They said nothing. These were people who had spent their entire lives in the same house, with the same rules, and the same traditions. His childhood and family life was exactly the opposite. How was he to fit in with this?

Footsteps of heels on tile filled the room as Mrs. Bennet appeared with 2 others as they placed the food on the awaiting table. Pulling out her chair she silently took a seat, as did everyone else. The entire room was silent as Mrs. Bennet glanced about and bowed her head. Saying a prayer of blessing the words of "Amen" were spoken as she passed around the food.

The food was incredibly Italian as the steam from the freshly cooked plates passed him. It smelled wonderful.

The silence was followed by the clinking of glasses on plates and silverware. No one knew what to say. "Mr. Darcy?" Mrs. Bennet strained.

"Oh please, William." he said back with a smile.

"William," she began. "What is your line of work?"

After some quick thinking on his part he replied, "Sales."

"Oh really." after a moment. "What is it that you sell?"

"Chocolates ma'am."

"Does that provide a good income?"

"Somewhat. I just started."

"But on a guess, how much would you be planning to make in a year?"

He was a bit taken back by the question. No one had ever come out and flatly asked him that. "Around 10,000 a year."

Her fork dropped to her plate. "10,000 a year for my daughter to live on. Surely you can make more than that." she stated with a determination.

"Mamma." Elizabeth tried to interrupt.

"Many people live on that much a year, and are very happy in their situation." he replied for neither heard Elizabeth.

"But surely, a better income could make you both happy as well."

"True, but I'm just starting out. This is the only way that I know how to care for her."

"But caring for her is a part of wanting to have a better salary William. How do you plan to care for her on such a low income?"

After a moment of thought, "By loving her, cherishing her, honoring her. I believe those are the vows that I took when I married her."

Elizabeth stared at him in disbelief. He seemed so true when he said those words, her stomach leaped a bit at what he said. "It's just an act. He's just keeping up the appearance." she said to herself.

"But she cannot live on only love."

"Many people can't. But if Elizabeth wanted to advance her position in society than she wouldn't have married me. She did it for love."

"How can you be so sure that love was in her mind when she did marry you?"

With that Elizabeth could take it no longer. "Mamma, please. I married William because I love him. Money and wealth are not important to me. I just wanted to marry him because I could see myself with no other. He is the man that I wanted to spend my days with. He's my best friend and my love, and lack of funds are not going to keep me from that."

William stared at her while she proclaimed the words. "Caroline never said that to me." he thought in the back of his mind.

The room went silent as everyone retreated to their own thoughts and blushes.

Finally Mr. Bennet, tired of his wife's behavior changed the subject. "William, where are your parents so that we might meet them?" Elizabeth looked up at this. He had never once mentioned his parents.

He opened his mouth to speak and then closed it. A look of sadness spread across his face. "My parents are ... well they're..." and starting over he said, "My parents are dead Mr. Bennet. They have been for the past 5 years."

"I'm sorry son." he replied quietly.

"You have no family then." Mrs. Bennet piped in. "So you were raised by your grandparents or other relatives."

"No ma'am, I was 22 when they died. But my grandparents died years ago, and my only family is a distant aunt and a few cousins. I have a younger sister who is in school on some trust money and has been living with my aunt since I was off at war."

"Well certainly your original country holds some family."

"I'm not sure of where I am from. That's the only family that I have."

"Elizabeth has traced her roots back 400 years in Italy. And 200 years in England. Have you no pride in your family?"

"Yes ma'am, but we were never that close."

"That's appalling William. Have you ever tried to heal the distance?"

"It's quite difficult to do that ma'am when they have other lives where they live."

"So you are saying that we have no life because we all live together then?"

"No ma'am not at all. It's just they could never move from where they are. I couldn't do that and neither could they. I live a life where I am and they do the same where they are."

"You mean, you couldn't find something to sell where they are?" she replied icily.

Suddenly Elizabeth stood up and threw down her napkin. "Excuse me." she murmured. With that she left the room.

A silence fell over the room when William followed her suit. "I should go talk to her." he said pushing back in his chair. "Thank you for dinner, it was delicious." he said with a smile to Mrs. Bennet. She only nodded in return.

Following Elizabeth's tracks, he stepped out into the courtyard to see her sitting on the edge of one of the fountains. Her head in her hands. Walking up slowly behind her, he gently touched her shoulder as she turned around.

"Liz," he said sympathetically as he wiped away a tear. "It's okay, I'm okay."

It was the first time that he ever gave her a nickname. "I'm so sorry about all of that. It's just sometimes she gets like that..."

"Hey, it's not your fault." while stroking her arm. "I would love to have what you have. I've wanted a normal family my entire life. You're lucky."

"But she shouldn't have attacked you like that. I should have warned you, but I didn't think that she would have done that to you."

"I'm alright Liz, and tomorrow no one will even remember it."

"I hope." They stood outside a moment longer while William let Elizabeth cry. "My eyes aren't red are they?"

"Just a little from crying."

"I don't want them to know that I was upset."

"Well you look fine to me."

"Okay, I'm ready. Let's go back in. It's getting late and I'm just going to go take a bath and go to bed. It's been a long day."

"You go on ahead. I'm going to go meet your father."

He watched her retreating figure as she went back into the house. William remained outside a while longer, collecting his thoughts, before he went back into the house. He was mad that Mrs. Bennet hurt Elizabeth so much. It broke his heart to see her cry like that. "And on account of me." he said silently.

Turning, he re-entered the house and finally found Mr. Bennet's study. Standing at the door, he pulled on his jacket and straightened himself out before he knocked on the door.

A muffled "Come in." was heard as he opened the door.

Walking in the room he looked around himself. It was a large study that clashed the Italian with the English. It was charming and cozy. No wonder Mr. Bennet hid himself in there.

Mr. Bennet's back was turned but he faced him when he came in.

"Ah, William. Please have a seat." he said motioning towards a seat in front of the desk.

"Thank you." replied William.

"By the way son, I wanted to apologize for my wife's behavior. She gets like that sometimes. But you handled it very well. I'm proud."

"Thank you." he said again.

"I wanted to have you come in here after dinner for a reason. To see what you were like during dinner. You faced the situation very well and succeed in making my wife looking like the enemy."

"I'm sorry sir, that was not my intent."

"I'm saying it's a good thing." after a moment. "Elizabeth is my favorite daughter. I have watched her grow and change. I would never just give her to anyone. When she said that she was married, at first I was angry. I knew nothing of this man that she gave her life to. But after seeing and hearing from you tonight, I see that you are a fine young man. May God bless you both sir." he said extending a hand for William to shake. He stood up to shake Mr. Bennet's hand.

"Thank you sir."

"Well you must be tired. Good night."

"Good night Mr. Bennet." and with that he left.

Chapter 6

Posted on Saturday, 22 June 2002

William headed down the same familiar hallway as he walked towards their bedroom. It seemed weird. Earlier that day he was facing the fact that he would never see her again, and now he is sharing a bedroom with her.

He reached for the door handle but paused. Raising his hand he knocked on the door instead. When no one answered he figured that she was still in the bathtub. Walking in, he found himself wrong. He stopped suddenly at the sight before him. There she was in her nightgown and robe, hair down, and she was standing out on the balcony. The curtains blew around her as she leaned upon the banister with her face raised to the sky in awe. He had never seen anything so naturally beautiful. His breath caught in his throat.

Hearing this she turned suddenly, breaking the spell. He regained his senses. Coming up with something possible to say he muttered out, "Are you finished in the bathroom?"

"Yes, you may go ahead."

Taking a handful of clothes he walked in there and shut the door. Seeing the sink he turned on the cold water. Cupping the water in his hands he splashed it in his face. "Get a hold of yourself." he murmured over and over again.

Changing into his pajamas he stepped out to see Elizabeth at the vanity brushing out her long curls. "Did you find everything?" she asked.

"Yes." But he wasn't talking about the bathroom.

Walking over to the armoire he opened it and reached for extra sheets and blankets. With these he began to make a bed for himself as she turned down her covers as well. There was an difficult silence between them as he spread out the sheets and blankets on the floor. It was ended however when she called his name.

"Yes." he said standing at his full height from being bent over.

"Here." she said and tossed him a pillow.

"Thanks." he replied as he plopped it down on the covers.

"Will?"

"Hmm."

"I still feel that I need to apologize for what happened tonight."

"Liz, don't worry about it. I've taken harsher criticism than that before."

"But it was uncalled for. You are doing one of the noblest things I have ever heard of, and you have to endure this treatment." she said with a pause as they stared at each other. "I should have figured that it would have turned out this way. She's always been like that. But to attack you on your occupation and your family." with this her face clouded over. "I'm so sorry to hear about your parents Will. I had no idea."

"Thanks, you couldn't have known though."

"But one day I will make this up to you. I don't know how or when, but I will."

"You are very kind Liz. Most women don't have that in them. A natural kindness yet a fiery temperament." he said with a laugh.

"Yes, well, my mouth will never cease sometimes." she said laughing back. "Turn around please." as she began to take off her robe.

He followed suit, but the thought of her dressed like that, and so near to him...

"Okay." she said as he turned around to see her laying down in her bed. He crawled onto the floor and she turned out the lamp. The only remaining light was from the dying fire.

"Goodnight Liz."

"Goodnight Will."

They had both settled down and were becoming comfortable with the fact of each other's presence when suddenly a knock was heard. Both jumped in surprise. Elizabeth shouted out, "Just a minute." as Will pulled all the sheets up next to the wall and away from the sight of the door. With that he jumped in bed with her and putting his arm around her. The door opened, and in came her mother.

"I just wanted to wish you both a goodnight." she said. "William, we're glad that you came to stay with us."

"Goodnight." they both said, and she left the room, but not without noticing a bit of the sheet on the floor.

Once she left neither of them moved. "Should we stay here in case she comes back?" William asked.

"I think so. It's too dangerous otherwise."

It was difficult, but William finally realised his arm from around her. They both turned over in different directions and were soon asleep. It was uncomfortable for them both, yet they must keep it up for appearance sake; or so they told themselves.

William was flying, in his airplane that is. The clouds passed below him like air. All he could see was the yellow horizon in front of him. It was beautiful. He was on top of the world. Glancing at the status bars of the cockpit, his favorite picture of Caroline was posted beside the wheel. Staring at it hard, the picture changed. It was not Caroline, it was now ... Elizabeth. She looked beautiful. He lost all attention on to that picture he didn't even notice the oncoming planes. Suddenly the sound of ammunition made him lose his thoughts as he jumped into the battle with his own guns. Dodging bullets from other planes, he shouted for his partner. "Jimmy! Jimmy! I need backup." Glancing back however his partner was laying there ... dead. Screaming, his plane was hit, he fell endlessly and swiftly towards the sea. His thoughts lost. "Elizabeth!...."

"What!?" she said sitting up.

He had jumped up in his bed, sweat running down his forehead. "Oh, G-d." he muttered as she touched his shoulders. A nightmare, it was only a nightmare. His breathing was heavy and irregular as he placed his hands on hers. "It was a nightmare. A terrible nightmare." he muttered in-between breaths.

"Shhhh, it's okay." she said comforting him. He fell into her grasp as they put their arms around each other. She held him in her embrace as a tear fell down his cheek. Pulling back she looked into his eyes as they dropped from her gaze. "You okay?" she asked.

"Yeah." he muttered. "I'm acting like a child."

"No, you're not." she replied back to him. "You are just terribly upset over your dream. Do you want to tell me about it?" she asked silently.

It seemed crazy to him at first, but the look in her eyes and the concern in her voice, made him want to talk about it. "I was," swallowing hard, "in my plane, the day I was shot down. I just can't stop thinking about it, and the fact that if I had taken the back seat instead of him." he said while leaning into his hand. "He had a wife and a baby on the way. Jimmy did. Why wasn't it me? Why did he have to die instead? The backseat was mine. But that day we changed places for some reason. It should have been me."

"Don't say that Will. It was your destiny to live. God does these things for reasons."

"But why did it have to be him?" he said laying down upon the pillows. "I just keep reliving me looking back and seeing him there...dead. The explosion, the flames. Then the water, how close it was coming to me. Faster and faster. I could feel myself dying, I could imagine it. Then waking up, lying in the hospital bed. My body in bandages, feeling the pain, and the ... regret." he said sitting up again.

"Will, look at me." she said cupping his face in her hands. "You lived for the best. You're purpose in life was not fulfilled, you had to live. That was your fate. You had something in this world that you were supposed to do. Whether it be to live, to marry, or to sell chocolates. You are here for a reason."

"But that still doesn't mean that it doesn't hurt." he said weakly.

Pulling him to her she wrapped her arms around him as he rested his cheek next to hers. "But that doesn't mean that you can stop living. Life goes on, and sooner or later, that road will end. Who knows which road you will travel next. But remember, that was not your fault." and kissing his cheek. William sighed as he inhaled her scent. She smelled like lavender and wine, it was beautiful to him. She noticed this and was surprised by the chills it sent down her spine. It was then, that they realized how close they were. Pulling back a little their faces were incredibly close, they could feel each other's warm breath on their mouths. William ran his hand down the side of her face. The air was like electricity around them. But it wasn't right. William could have kissed her, but he didn't. Neither of them wanted to ruin this moment. They laid back down upon their pillows with her still in his arms. He needed this tonight, to feel like he had somewhere there. And that someone wasn't the person that he was expecting, that he had dreamed of for the last few years. It was Elizabeth, and he wouldn't have it any other way.

Chapter 7

Posted on : Thursday, 27 June 2002

That first night had him confused, he admitted that. And it wasn't the awkwardness of the situation or the interrogating of Mrs. Bennet. It was something else, something that went deeper into his heart than that. But when he woke up that morning to find Elizabeth laying in his arms, his heart skipped a beat at the look of tranquility on her face. She scared him that way. He was afraid of being attracted to her. How could he not, he understood that, but it would be more than attraction. He was engaged, and she married. This would never last for forever. Just a few nights in the clouds.

When he arose, she was asleep and nestled up on his chest, her breathing steady and calm as a smile graced her lips. He brushed a stray end of her hair off of her cheek before lightly running his finger down the side of her face. It was difficult but he managed to lay her upon the pillows as he stood up from their bed.

Elizabeth opened her eyes slightly to see him standing there against the doors to the balcony gazing at the landscape. He began to unbutton his shirt as her eyes closed quickly. She was already attracted to him, but she couldn't be caught staring at him; especially when he was undressing. Hearing him walk into the bathroom and shut the door, she sat up in the bed. She had never slept so soundly, it was sad to have to leave that. Rising out of bed, she walked over to the dresser and began sorting through her clothes. But he happen to walk out of the bathroom at the same time. Toothbrush in his mouth and shirtless. Years of training in the war will do something for your upper body, and it excelled on his, to say the least. She turned in surprise as they both stared at each other. He had his shirt flung over his built shoulders which went well with his toned arms and chest. It was no better for him. Her brown hair was down and untamed, and her nightgown accented her curves. They both recovered from their moment of shock as each turned the other way. He turned back into the bathroom and her to the dressers. With that, they dressed, and joined the family.

He spent the day contemplating the subject as they worked in the fields and around the house. The harvest was the next day as everyone bustled around to prepare for the celebration and festivities. It was then however, that a series of honking and shouting came from the road. A sleek car pulled up with a middle aged man and woman. She looked like a thinner version of Mrs. Bennet and him a contrast to Mr. Bennet. Their pleasant smiles and warm welcomes, showed that they were more hospitable and kind than the lady of the house.

Shouts of "Buon giorno" and "Benvenuto" were heard as they climbed out of their car. Elizabeth saw them from a distance as she ran into their awaiting arms, as everyone was soon settled in an embrace.

Suddenly Elizabeth spoke out in her native language with, "Benvenuto, benvenuto. Siamo stati preoccupati che non rivelereste!*" He had never heard her speak Italian around him.

The woman replied back with her own. "Ah, sě. Abbiamo avuti alcune difficoltŕ sulla strada. Ma qui siamo! Buona mattina il mio Elizabeth caro della ragazza!"

"Buona mattina Zia Maddalena, Zio Marcello." she replied wrapping her arms around them both. Leading them to where William was standing off to the side she introduced him to the couple. "Aunt, Uncle, this is my husband William Darcy. My Aunt Maddalena and my Uncle Marcello from Sacramento. My Aunt is my mother's younger sister." William gallantly shook both their hands and smiled at their reactions to his title as her husband. With that they both swept Elizabeth up in shouts of congratulations. They were the first people who seemed to be happy for them as compared to the rest of her family.

The reunion did not last long as everyone was sent off to their chores and duties around the estate. With that William was pulled off into the vineyard with the rest of the men, as they inspected the grapes.

He would see Elizabeth as she went in and out of the house on certain errands. All she would do is smile and glance at him. But towards the evening she came out and walked up to him. "William, my sisters and I are going to go to a dance hall tonight to see all my old friends. I would really like it if you went with us. Will you come?"

"Yeah sure. It's been ages since I got to dance. And then it was only in a USO Hall." And with that she turned and re-entered the house.

Soon enough, after a change of clothes and a bar of soap, all were ready to go as they piled up into the family car. It was 6 people crowded in a car that usually only held about 4. Elizabeth was all but sitting on him as they drove to the hall. It was an awkward and dull silence they was around them as they drove, but soon enough they arrived. Climbing out William finally got a good look at Elizabeth. She was wearing a white dress with big red flowers printed on it. Her hair was let down as she let her curls run free. She looked beautiful. He looked stunning to her as well. In his khaki pants and white shirt. His hair was slicked and tidy as he pulled on his coat.

She grabbed his hand and pulled her in with him. He, like a lost puppy, followed her.

They stepped into the smoky hall as a large dance floor was stationed in the middle, bordered by tables and chairs. On the opposite wall was a bar. A band was playing the latest tune as everyone around them was dancing with their partners. They grabbed a table and settled down into non-important chat. William was fascinated by her sisters. Especially the youngest one. Lydia was wild; incredibly so. Spying a few men she stood up and just walked away from their table. Kitty, the 2nd to youngest, followed suit. As there was 2 men and 2 of them. Mary, the middle girl, hardly spoke, so Jane and Elizabeth kept up the conversation. Soon enough it wasn't even Jane, as a few acquaintances spied her interest.

Glancing at Elizabeth, as she leaned her elbows upon the table and laid her head upon her hands, he noticed her gaze out to the dance floor. He noticed a rocking motion, and leaning back so he could see under the table. Her feet were wildly tapping to the music. Then William had an idea. Standing up he took her hand. "You want to dance?" he asked as she stood up as well. Nodding her head eagerly they stepped out on to the dance floor. But then it wasn't the regular music anymore; it was swing. A countenance of delight crowded her face before she glanced at William.

"Do you know how to swing?" she asked.

"I've been around it." he replied back with a smile. Even though he was at war, he wasn't out of the loop. And she had never seen him dance before.

Pulling her towards him, he wrapped his arm around her waist and picked up her hand with his free one. She was tense for only a moment before relaxing into his grasp. One couldn't be tense during this dance. They started out slowly with a simple step as she glanced up at him in question. "Surely you can do better than this Will?" she asked in question.

"You sure you want me to go all out with this?" he replied back. The nodding of her head proved that she could handle it. "Alright, you're the boss. Just tell me if you're getting tired."

"I doubt I'll have to say that." The band kicked up the moment that they did as he pushed her out in a spin. Bringing her back in he dipped her low to the ground before pulling her back up. Her face showed her shock. But he kept on. Their feet never stopped as he moved her around the floor. Pushing her out again he spun her as she traveled around his back before he caught her back in his arms again. He led her over to the center of the floor as she followed his suit. He grabbed her hands as he pulled her out and in again to him. They were perfect partners, that much was obvious. Especially when everyone else on the dance floor stepped back in awe at this couple. Grabbing her arm he spun her out of his arms as they stared at each other from across the floor. A nod of his head, and she was off. Running up to him he caught her up in his arms while swinging her around his waist. Setting her back on the floor he wrapped his arms around her waist and began a series of daring spins and swings around the floor. She, however, was amazed.

They had danced with an endless number of partners. Some good, and some bad. But never, never, had they danced with someone like each other. They knew the steps before they even happened. It was like they were reading each other's mind as he would spin, dip, and practically throw her around the room. Sweeping her up in his arms, the song came to a close. Sensing this, he pushed her out in one last spin as he spun her around his front and back. As she came back to face him he pushed her out into a step before pulling her back into his arms. Her arms were around his neck as he picked her up off the ground the moment that the music ceased. Setting her back down to the ground, the onlookers cheered and clapped as they all returned to the dance floor. Before either of them could speak, another dance started. But this one was a slow song. With the permission through her eyes, he pulled her into his arms. The opening bars of the familiar song started as the room fell silent.

"At last
My love
Has come along
My lonely days are over
And life is like
A song"

Staring into her eyes, they were still alive with excitement from their dance, but caution at how incredibly close they were. They were crossing some boundaries just by their dancing together. But then again, they had to do it for the appearance.

"At last
The skies above are blue
My heart was wrapped up in clover
The night I looked at you
I found a dream
That I could speak to
A dream that I
Can call my own
I found a thrill to press
My cheek to
A thrill that I
Have never known"

His hold around her waist tightened as the space between them vanished. They were now pressed against each other. He could feel her heart beat against his chest as she rested her cheek against his shoulder. Both were too content to want to pull back.

"And you smile you smile
And then the spell was cast
And here we are in heaven
For you are mine
At last"**

As the song ended, so did Lydia's interest in the club as they were pulled off the dance floor to enter their car. William walked over to the bar and paid for the drinks while the girls gathered their things and said their good-byes. The bartender looked up at him in awe. "You and your wife are quite the dancers. You must be very happy together."

William paused for a moment. "Thank you, were very happy together." A smile graced his lips as a thought passed through his mind, "Elizabeth as my wife." He imagined what he had always dreamed of. Him coming home from work to the perfect little house. The children playing on the lawn with the dog, and Elizabeth coming out of the house to greet him. Wrapping her arms around his neck and welcoming him home. Kissing him, hugging him, caring about him. And for the first time in 4 years, he couldn't imagine Caroline doing that for him. His thoughts were abandoned as the object of his mind came up and touched his arm. Turning around she said to him with a look that he loved in her eyes, "Will we're leaving."

"Coming." he said as they walked across the room. On the way out however something came over him, as he grasped her hand in his. He smiled in delight as they wrapped their fingers around the others hand. With that they climbed into the car and headed home.

When they arrived it was nearly midnight, as everyone else was sound asleep. Creeping up to their room, they entered and shut the door behind them. They carried on silently with their business as William made his bed on the floor. It was too difficult for him to sleep next to Elizabeth and not want to take her into his arms. With their goodnights, the lights were turned out, as they both settled down to sleep. The thought of the other, however, robbed their slumber. They were both thinking about that night. The feel of their arms around one another, their warm breaths on their cheeks, the closeness of their lips. It all seemed to much for them, but they couldn't do what their hearts wanted. Not now, not here, not this situation. But the thought that they both fell asleep with was simply this, "What if."

*"Welcome, welcome. We were afraid you wouldn't show up."

"Ah, yes. We had some difficulties on the road. But here we are! Good morning my dear girl Elizabeth!"

"Good morning Aunt Maddalena, Uncle Marcello."

**"At Last"

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