Further Down The Road

P&P ~ Regency ~ R/NC17

Elizabeth's journey to Derbyshire takes a different turn when Wickham travels with Lydia to Lambton instead of London.

WARNING: This first chapter contains violence. The situation concerns Lydia and not Elizabeth, but it is still very heavy. If you have a problem reading violence of any sort, please skip this chapter and start reading with Chapter 2. Don't worry, this is the “heaviest” chapter in this story.



Chapter 1

“Hurry, my love. We must begin our journey before the house awakes.” George Wickham smiled. “The coach awaits below. Hurry.”

“I forgot my new bonnet! Let me fetch it and I will meet you at the coach,” Lydia Bennet said with joy. She was so happy. Just fifteen and soon to be married, she knew that she would be the envy of all her sisters, especially Kitty.

“All right, but hurry or all our plans will be for naught.”

“I shall. I promise!” With her guarantee uttered, Lydia ran fast but quietly to her room in the home the Forester's leased during their stay in Brighton. She picked up the new bonnet and the book that sat on the table next to it.

The book had been in the room when she arrived. She did not know the title or the author nor did she care, it was where she kept her correspondence from Kitty. She picked up the book that contained her sister's latest missive. It arrived earlier in the day and with all the excitement of her impending elopement, she had yet to read its contents.

“I am sure it contains only boring information, but I shall take it along to have something at which to laugh. What a good joke this will be! Kitty will be so jealous! I wish I could see her face when she sees my name on the return post. Mrs. Lydia Wickham! She will cry and wail. La! What a good joke!”

Wickham waited next to the coach. He was nervous. Colonel Forester was an early riser and if Lydia did not appear soon, there may not be enough time to make their escape. His escape. He would leave Lydia in London or where it was convenient. When her money was gone, so shall she be. His empty promises of marriage were to gain access to her purse.

She didn't have enough to get them to Scotland, but then he did not really wish to go to Gretna Green. London would suit well enough. He needed to leave and passage to the Americas was what he wanted. What he needed! He had been discovered with Mrs. Forester by Captain Denny and one of the new officers and knew the information would be passed to the Colonel when the two returned from an overnight duty, giving him the time that would spare him immediate sanctions.

Hearing rapid footsteps, Wickham looked up to see Lydia leaning over the balustrade, waving frantically. He motioned for her to hurry and watched as she ran to meet him. Without ceremony, he placed her in the coach and pounded on the side for the driver to pull out. Lydia wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him soundly.

He smiled. There may be a bit more than just a few Pounds he could take from her. He pulled the shades closed over the coach windows and grabbed Lydia at the waist. “Come here, you little chit!”

Lydia giggled and complied with his request.

“I will turn you into a woman now. I cannot wait for the ceremony. I must have you now!” George Wickham said with a savage look in his eyes. He unbuttoned her pelisse and pulled it down over her arms locking them into place. He then made his hands dive into the neckline of her gown on either side of her breasts and pulled them from the safety of the cloth.

He stared at the dark nipples and watched as the cool air made them pucker. A low groan slipped from his throat and he rubbed the pads of his thumbs over the tips.

“Has no man ever suckled this beauties, my sweet?”

Lydia could not answer. She was shocked and aroused by his actions. She was a naïve girl, a maiden. But not for much longer; she dared to flirt and now she must pay for her actions.

He had no intentions of being gentle. He planned to take what he wanted and he wasn't going to wait. He moved her to sit astride his lap and began to work his tongue and teeth over her sensitive peaks. He noticed she would moan with pleasure the rougher he worked his mouth. A smile grew as he bit down and she cried out in pleasure.

He shocked himself when he realized that he was picturing not Lydia behind his closed eyes, but her sister, Elizabeth. With the realization, he felt his cock grow very hard and he sucked on Lydia's nipple even harder and groaned an unintelligible “Elizabeth.”

Wickham had been attracted to the second oldest Bennet daughter immediately. She did not have the classic beauty of her older sister, but her body was the perfect human palace of pleasure. She had full voluptuous breasts, hips that were round and gave the perfect impression of a hot and wet home for his cock. If Lydia was this responsive, Elizabeth must surely be more so and the thought drove him to push Lydia down on the coach seat and pull her skirts up exposing her.

He stood as best as he could in the moving carriage and unbuttoned his breeches. He was hard and as his member fell into the cool air he wrapped his hand around the shaft and began to massage himself. He stared at Lydia's womanhood and growled angrily when she tried to close her legs.

“Spread your legs! Damn you, wench. You will keep your legs spread wide so that I may see you. I will make you a woman and you will like it.”

Wickham moved the window shade enough to let enough light from the full moon in and shine on the feminine apex exhibited in front of him. He thought of Elizabeth and stroked himself harder. He groaned as he felt his cock grow even harder.

“I am going to make you mine by taking you with my hardness. You will scream for me when I tear you into a woman. You will bleed upon me and be mine.”

Lydia began to shake with fear. This isn't what she had imagined. She had enjoyed his roughness at first, but now she saw his manhood in full extension and heard his words, she thought that maybe it wouldn't be such a good joke after all. She had decided to rise and try to protect herself, but was not able to carry out her plan. George Wickham was on top of her and ramming his manhood into her. As she screamed in pain, he laughed. He pumped harder and harder until he his neck muscles strained and he yelled, “And I will have you too, Elizabeth!” He then fell full weight atop of her. They fell to the floor of the carriage when the conveyance traversed a bump in the road.

As George Wickham began to snore lightly, Lydia let her tears fall from her eyes in silence.

It was a couple hours later when Wickham awoke and removed himself from the floor and Lydia. He righted himself and demanded that she do the same. They would stop soon and they needed to be presentable. Lydia fixed her dress best as possible and then opened and reached into her small trunk for her looking glass. She removed the bonnet and the book she had retrieved earlier and placed them on the seat next to her.

“What is that?” Wickham asked and she looked at him not knowing what “that” was.

He pointed to the book on the seat.

“A book,” Lydia said in a quiet voice that sounded more like Kitty in one of her shy moments than her own fearless shrill.

“I know that, you idiot woman. I mean what is that stuck inside.”

“It is a letter from Kitty. It came for me yesterday. I didn't have time to read it, so I stuck in the book.”

“Why didn't you read it?”

“What is there for her to tell me? That Maria Lucas has a new bonnet or where Lizzy is now in her travels? It is all too boring.” Only Lydia didn't believe that anymore. She would much rather be looking at Maria's new bonnet or going wherever Lizzy was going. She was sure she would not be is so much pain and not anywhere near as frightened as she was now.

“Read it! Aloud! I need the entertainment!”

Lydia stared at him.

“I said, read it! Now, woman! Do as you are told!”

Lydia carefully removed the letter from the book and broke the seal. With shaking hands she began to read Kitty's words. As predicted, news of Maria's latest purchase introduced the local news of Meryton. Soon enough the subject changed to the latest letter to be received from Elizabeth on her travels with the Gardiner's.

Uncle Gardiner could not tour the lakes as originally planned and so Lizzy is to only see Derbyshire. I wish I were to travel with my uncle and aunt. I still do not see why you and Lizzy have all the luck. I suppose that Elizabeth's birthday does make reason enough for the treat of travel. But I do not think visiting grand houses like Blenheim and Chatsworth to be great fun. They are now on their way to Lambton. I do not know what is so grand there. Papa says that is where Aunt Gardiner spent her youth and …

Wickham grabbed the letter from Lydia's hand and read the rest to himself. A small, evil smile crooked his mouth.

“Lambton. Yes. That will be perfect!” Wickham said out loud, but Lydia was sure it was not her he spoke to.

Wickham made the arrangements with the coachman at the next stop and after a change of horses, he and Lydia were now on their way to Derbyshire. It was a perfect plan. Colonel Forester would suspect him to go to London. He would never think of looking for him in Derbyshire. He had a few friends left in Lambton and a few that owed him money too. More money and his chance to see Elizabeth Bennet inspired this new plan. He was determined to have his way with Lydia's older sister, especially since their last conversation. What had Darcy told her? He would never say anything about Ramsgate. He knew Darcy well enough that he could be assured about that. The Bennet's were not in high enough circles for that and, even if they were, Darcy would never reveal anything so personal. But what had he told her? Or what had he done to elevate Miss Elizabeth's option? It was enough of a question for him to want to make Elizabeth Bennet his as much as, if not more than, her sister.

Chapter 2

“Lizzy, our host last night cannot be the same man you described as visiting Hertfordshire last fall,” Aunt Gardiner looked at the face of her flushed niece. “He was attentive and kind. He even seems excited to take your uncle fishing.”

“I am sure he is, Aunt,” Elizabeth Bennet answered while purposefully hiding her face from view.

“Though I did notice him staring at you during dinner last night.” Madeline Gardiner smiled with a knowing lift of her brow. “But it was definitely not to find fault.”

“What do you mean?”

“Elizabeth Bennet! That man is besotted with you!” Elizabeth tried to hide her face from the all too perceptive woman married to her mother's brother, but Aunt Gardiner saw enough to add, “But you know this, do you not?”

“Oh, Aunt! I have been so wrong about Mr. Darcy. Last April, when I visited Charlotte in Kent, Mr. Darcy was there visiting his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. We were in company many times and… he…proposed.”

“Elizabeth? He proposed?” Madeline Gardiner moved toward Lizzy and sat next to her. She took the younger woman's hand in hers before continuing with her questions. “You refused him?”

“Yes,” Lizzy spoke meekly. “That was before I knew… before I knew… everything.”

“Everything? Of what do you speak?” Aunt Gardiner kept her voice soft and supportive.

“I was such a fool. His proposal was lacking, to be sure, but I was so, so… cruel. He separated Jane from Mr. Bingley and I could not forgive him. I understand now he was trying to protect his friend. Charlotte warned me that Jane's quietness could be mistaken for indifference. That is what Mr. Darcy saw. Not knowing Jane, he could only think that… And my mother's loud profusions regarding the acquaintance… what was he to think?”

“His loyalty to is friend shows his good character. And my sister-in-law can be a bit blunt at times,” Aunt Gardiner simplified.

“Oh, Aunt! I understand my mother's… desires… and her ability to voice them loud and in company. It wasn't his place to interfere but I am well aware that he was only trying to protect his friend.”

“Mr. Bingley did not have to give credence to Mr. Darcy's concerns, Elizabeth. Perhaps he also felt Jane's feelings were not engaged.”

“I do not believe that, but it is possible I suppose,” Elizabeth sighed before she confessed more. “But that is not all, Aunt. I used all that Mr. Wickham relayed as part of my reasoning for my refusal..”

“Mr. Wickham? Ah, yes, the young officer from Derbyshire. I do not believe that Mr. Darcy could have done all that young man proclaimed. He seemed too free with information, especially with those whose acquaintance he just entered.”

“Of that I am now aware. Mr. Darcy wrote me a letter…”

“He what? That is not very proper, Elizabeth, especially since you refused his proposal.”

“He did not mean to be improper, Aunt. He wanted me to know the truth about Mr. Wickham.” Tears stung Elizabeth's eyes as she remembered discovering the truth. “I would not have listened had he tried to speak of it to me.”

“Well, then. I think I have a little more respect for the man. He seems to be a quick study where you are concerned.” A sly smile grew across Aunt Gardiner's face as a rosy hue spread over Elizabeth's cheeks.

“Oh, Aunt, Mr. Wickham is not what he would want us to believe. I should have never taken what he told me as fact. You are correct. He offered too freely and too soon. Mr. Wickham is a greedy and selfish man. I cannot tell you all that Mr. Darcy wrote to me, but I do believe his words. His version of the story was backed by fact and witness.”

“Why was Mr. Darcy's proposal lacking, Elizabeth?” Aunt Gardiner knew there was more for if Mr. Darcy's letter had explained everything then there had to be some reason for the tension between her niece and the quiet gentleman of Derbyshire.

“He… told me that he `ardently admired and loved me' and then proceeded to tell me all the reasons why he should not marry me.” Elizabeth twisted her hands together before turning to her aunt and raising her eyebrow. “Mr. Collins's proposal was far superior.”

“Oh, my! That puts Mr. Darcy's abilities rather low.”

“Yes,” Elizabeth sighed with a smile and stared out the inn's window as she thought that it felt good to explain things to her Aunt. She felt as if she had been hiding, almost lonely. Being with Mr. Darcy had been exciting and yet frightening. She remembered seeing him the first time at the assembly rooms in Meryton and thinking he was the handsomest man she had ever seen. His slighting her had hurt more than she realized and all the stories that George Wickham spun were like a healing balm to her wounded pride. She should have been blind to his constant staring, but instead became more and more aware of the man the longer she spent in company with him. When he professed his love to her at Hunsford, it was as if she were handed the perfect opportunity to wound him as she had been. When he defined all the reasons why he should not make his offer, it was as if he were confirming her right to wound him.

So she did and then her plan to give an eye for an eye was upturned by several sheets of paper of neatly penned words.

She found herself thinking of Mr. Darcy more and more. She looked at events from his perspective and slowly found that she understood the things that he had done. Perhaps he was lacking in some respects, but nothing was truly done in malice. If she had been him, she might have even done things similarly.

She also believed that she would never see him again so that she would never have to offer atonement for her false accusations and cruelties. But she did see him again. She smiled as she remembered their first encounter on Pemberley's grounds. His appearance had been a shock, but also a welcome vision of the perfect man not so perfect. It was as if she were looking at the real person inside the fine cloth.

He was nervous. She realized that now. Her nerves at the time had made her believe that he had been upset by her presence. She wanted to run away. But he sought her out and quickly made her feel welcome.

Elizabeth continued to stare out the window with a small smile on her face as a soft knock sounded at the door.

Hannah entered the parlor and spoke to Mrs. Gardiner, “The post has come!” She handed the letters to the older woman and quickly left from the way she had entered.

Mr. Gardiner entered immediately after the young servant's exit and invited his wife and niece to join him for a walk. “I understand the path to the church is quite lovely.”

“It is, husband! I will join you, but I think Elizabeth would like to remain here with her thoughts and these two letters that just arrived from Jane.” Mrs. Gardiner smiled and handed the letters to Elizabeth.

“Two letters from Jane! Oh, I had wondered why I had not heard from my sister! It looks as if she wrote the direction ill. Very ill, indeed. You do not mind if I stay behind, Uncle?”

“Of course we do not!” Madeline Gardiner answered for her husband. “We will walk to the church and return in a half hour.”

The Gardiner's left and Elizabeth sat down to read what Jane relayed. Tears fell from her eyes as she learned of Lydia's flight from Brighton with Wickham and what it meant for not only Lydia but also her family's reputation. Her reputation. Mr. Darcy would never look at her now.

Another knock sounded at the door and Hannah again entered. She quickly introduced Mr. Darcy and made her courtesy pulling the parlor door closed as she left the parlor.

“I hope that I am not distur…” Darcy quickly stopped speaking when he noticed Elizabeth's tears. “My God! What is the matter?”

He quickly rushed to her side and listened as she relayed Lydia's ruination.

“I fear you are wishing my absence,” Darcy said after asking few questions. “I shall tell my sister that you will not be able to join us this afternoon.”

“Oh, yes. Please send Miss Darcy my apologies. Tell her that important business calls us home. If you could conceal the truth, I am sure it shall not be long.”

“You are assured of my secrecy,” he said with no emotion as he opened the door. “I wish you well.”

“Thank you… Good… b… bye.” Elizabeth spoke bravely but with tears.

“Goodbye,” Darcy bowed his head and left the room.

Elizabeth waited only a few seconds after the door closed before she fell into the nearest chair and sobbed quietly.

Darcy walked down the hall toward the stairs that would take him to the front door and thought, “I will travel to London. I will find them! Wickham will not ruin this for me. I cannot lose Elizabeth now.”

“Mr. Darcy, sir!” Hannah's hushed voice stopped him in his tracks.

“Hannah? What is it?”

“Sir! He has come!” Hannah said in a low, shaky voice.

“Who has come?” Darcy asked just as quietly.

“Him!” Hannah whispered just before she looked about to see if any others were near. “My son's father… He is here… in the pub… he has a tankard and is talking up Mr. Simon. I heard him say that he will finally have what he wants!”

“How long has he been here?”

“He just arrived, sir,” she replied. “Please, sir! Do not let him take my baby!”

“Worry not, Hannah. Wickham has no knowledge of young Robert. But to be safe, take the boy and go to Pemberley. Tell Mrs. Reynolds that I will explain later. Also, tell the innkeeper to go for the Gardiner's. I believe they have gone in the direction of the church. Have them return here, gather their things and come directly to Pemberley.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Go now and do not let Wickham see you. Go!” Darcy pushed the servant girl toward the door. When he saw her make her escape, he turned and walked back to the rooms the Gardiner's and Elizabeth Bennet were keeping. Without announcing himself, Darcy opened the door and entered the room. He walked toward Elizabeth and grabbed her hand. “We have no time to waste, Elizabeth. Come with me now and do not speak. We must leave here unnoticed.”

Chapter 3

Shocked by Mr. Darcy's actions, Elizabeth managed to pull her hand from his grasp at the top of the stairs.

“Mr. Darcy!” Elizabeth's voice was flustered. “I do not think…”

“Elizabeth! Please!”

“Mr. Darcy! You address me improperly! I have not given you leave to use my Christian name. My younger sister may not subscribe to propriety, but I guarantee you, sir, that I do! You will not cart me off like a common…

“Miss Bennet!” Darcy spoke with quiet ire. “I assure you that I am only thinking of your reputation and that of your sisters' with my design. But we must away from here immediately, madam, to obtain that goal!”

“I fail to see…”

“Please! I cannot explain here. It is not safe. Come.” Darcy implored gesturing for her to precede him on the stairs.

Upon stepping onto the ground floor, Elizabeth made quick strides toward the front of the inn. She would let Mr. Darcy make his explanations just outside the front entrance and in full view of passersby and those who may be sitting on the other side of the pub window. The revelations in Jane's letters had already turned her world upside down. There was no possible way she would allow Mr. Darcy to treat her as if she were for the taking. Lydia may be shamed, her family shamed, but that didn't mean she had to allow herself to be shamed. Even if it was by the man she knew that she had somehow fell in love with.

She had not even reached the main parlor when a hand on her shoulder stopped her progress. Though she knew it had to be Mr. Darcy's hand, she turned to verify her assumption when her eyes stopped at the doorway to the pub and the man sitting at a table within … a man with whom she was acquainted. A loud gasp fell from her lips.

Darcy whispered a curse and quickly put his hand over her mouth and pulled her from the sight of those in the pub. As she opened her mouth to speak again, he bent down so that his eyes were level with hers.
In a cautious whisper, Darcy whispered. “He is here. Wickham. He sits in the tavern. Look.” With his cheek next to Elizabeth's, he moved their heads just passed the corner wall for her to see George Wickham confabbing with another man. “We must away quickly. No good shall come of it if he were to discover either of us. Odom, the innkeeper, will alert the Gardiner's and send them on to Pemeberley. Come.”

Elizabeth remained frozen.

“The inn is no longer a safe place for discussion. Do you agree?” He asked and since his hand still covered her mouth, she nodded. Darcy pulled her close, his cheek still next to hers, removing them both into the hall that led to the kitchens and took them out to the back of the inn where he asked a young man to fetch his horse.

Lizzy's heart was racing as her mind stumbled over many questions at once: Wickham here? But where was Lydia? What was the scent that invaded her senses when Mr. Darcy's cheek touched hers? Why would she think of such a thing when her sister…

“Do you ride, Miss Bennet?

“I beg your pardon?” Elizabeth snapped out of her odd self-questioning.

“A horse, Miss Bennet. Do you ride?”

“No, sir. I'm afraid I prefer my own legs to carry me than those of a beast. Sir, why do we not question Mr. Wickham as to my sister?”

“It is obvious that Miss Lydia is not in the pub, Miss Bennet. The man with whom Wickham spoke is not one of Lambton's better citizens and, to be honest…”

“Sir?”

“Miss Bennet… I have explained my dealings with Mr. Wickham to you; however, that… gentleman's… general character is not all together what he would have you believe. I am not at liberty to relate other's dealings, madam. Now is not the time or place to relate any such information nor is it something for a lady's ears. I hope you can trust me and allow me to remove you to Pemberley. I will explain all to your uncle and allow him to relate what he feels appropriate.

Elizabeth wasn't at all happy with his words. She wanted him to explain to her here and now. Her Uncle Gardiner would explain some but not all, she knew and she felt she would learn more from Darcy. Hadn't he once wanted to marry her? She felt that he had been planning to renew his addresses to her, and so did her aunt. But with Lydia's folly the possibility of that was gone. He would help her and her family. He was too kind of a man not to.

After he miraculously appeared sodden and surprised to see her, Elizabeth introduced her aunt and uncle and been surprised at Darcy's demeanor. He seemed a different man. Open, talkative and kind. Later that same day, Elizabeth had been embarrassed by her aunt's bold questions to her childhood friends about the man. The people of Lambton seemed to share Mrs. Reynold's glowing appraisal of the man.

But what had surprised her even more were Darcy's actions that evening at Pemberley. He was talkative, attentive, kind and he did the most unusual thing. He smiled. Not a small curving of the lips, but a broad smile that displayed white teeth and two wonderful dimples. Many of the smiles were directed toward her. She believed it was those smiles that finally sent her heart down the path of love. But those smiles would now be for someone else. At least Miss Bingley would be happy. Well, until she realized that he had no intention of ever directing one her way.

But in her heart, she knew that he would never abandon her as a friend. He would help her family to the best of his ability. Make sure they were safe and happy, but he could no longer pursue her. She had been a risk as it was, now she would only be a hindrance.

Elizabeth was shocked to see Mr. Odom, the innkeeper, bring Mr. Darcy's horse rather than the lad sent to fetch the animal.

“Odom! Thank you. You will inform the Gardiner's upon their return?” Mr. Darcy asked as he took the reins and calmed his mount.

“I will, sir,” Mr. Odom said with a quick glance at Elizabeth. He turned back to Darcy and spoke much quieter than before. “I'm sure he will stay and imbibe all that Simon will pay for, which will not last too long.”

Darcy passed the man a couple of notes telling him to give them a few “on the house” to forestall his departure. “I know it will not be an easy task, Odom, but if you would profess a rapport with Wickham and allow him the opportunity perhaps he will confide in you. Is he aware that you know of his assignations with…”

“I do not know,” Odom fought to keep his anger in check and turned away so that Elizabeth could no longer see his face.

Elizabeth acted as if she could not hear the conversation, but there was no way she could not. She wondered what Mr. Wickham could of have done that would make the innkeeper act so.

“I know it is not an easy thing to ask, but if he believes you still unaware, he may enjoy the deception enough to elaborate on other more current situations…” Darcy said with a quick look at Elizabeth.

She interpreted Mr. Darcy's glance as a signal to the man that she was now in need of the famed Master of Pemberley's kind assistance. But it was the look of terror and concern in the innkeep's eyes that startled her. It was at that moment there was only one question in her head… Exactly what sort of man was Wickham? She felt a wave a terror flow throw her body.

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“I cannot thank you enough, Simon. This will be great help to me.” Wickham smiled over his tankered.

“It will be my pleasure. She is experienced?” The man named Simon smiled.

“She has been introduced to the subject.” Wickham chuckled. “She may not be as skilled as those in the better houses in London, but I was satisfied four times at least on the journey to Derbyshire.”

“Ah, good. Then she can be trained to the Northern way of satisfaction.”

Wickham laughed, sipped his drink and asked, “Is there a difference?”

“No. But she will not know that.”

The two men laughed at their joke when Mr. Odom entered the pub.

“Mr. Wickham! What a surprise! It has been awhile since we have seen you in these parts.” Odom said pretending not to feel the hate that lived in his soul for this blackguard.

“Odom, my man! How good to see you. You still run the inn?” Wickham looked at him with a wary eye.

“I do. It has been my saving grace.” Mr. Odom forestalled any anger in his voice by remembering Darcy's request and he owed Darcy his life.

Wickham looked at the man with a question in his eyes. He turned and raised his eyebrow to Mr. Simon.

Simon gave him a look that imparted an explanation would come later.

“How about a round on the house, gentlemen?”

The two men raised their cups in thanks as the innkeeper traversed the room for the pitcher of ale. Not but a few minutes after topping off the two men's tankards, Mr. Odom spotted the Gardiner's entering through the from of the inn and excused himself from the pub and made his way to the Gardiner's rented rooms above stairs.

“Of what was Odom speaking of?” Wickham asked his companion.

“Odom's daughter. You remember her, do you not, Wickham?”

“Ah, yes. The lovely Rebecca. I remember her well. I could always get a room in the inn from her.” Wickham chuckled remembering the last three months in the area when he needed a place to hide. And what a better place to hide than right under everyone's noses? The lovely Miss Odom was a girl of twenty who had been raised by her now deceased mother while her father served as a soldier. While Mr. Odom was enchanted with his daughter, she was not fond of the father that she did not really know. And all the better for Wickham. It had been simple. He promised her that he would take her with him when he left and all she had to do was provide a place for him to hide and a few other “favors.” Their affair had been a brief few months while he would need to “hide” from his creditors. Old Mr. Darcy would pay his debts without question but, when he fell into ill health, the younger Darcy did not adhere to the same convention and the need to “disappear” brought him to the Lambton Inn and the comforts of Rebecca Odom.

“She died in child birth,” Mr. Simon said between gulps. “About six months after you left.”

“What?” Wickham eyes opened wider and he remembered what the woman had told him that she refused to lay with any other saying that only he could satisfy her wanton desires. Now it made sense why she broke down in tears when he left. He promised to return for her. Oh, he never planned on returning, but he would not let her believe that.

“He says that it was the influenza, but gossips have said otherwise. I believe the old women myself.”

Oh. God. He had a child. He supposed that there might be a few here and there, but he never spent time on the thought. “And the child?” Wickham asked.

“Born dead from what I understand.” Simon said as he continued to drink.

Wickham nodded and finished his drink with a smile.

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Colin Odom descended the stairs and listened to the two men in his pub. He hated Wickham. He refused to let anyone speak ill of his dead daughter. He wanted to believe that she had been pure and perfect. But he knew better. If Mr. Darcy had not come to his aid, he would have killed himself long ago. But it was the young Hannah that brought him back from the darkest point in his life.

Mr. Darcy came to him and told him of the young woman's belief she was to be Wickham's bride and anticipated her vows. She had a small babe now and was in need of a job to support her child. There were others as well. His cook, Mrs. Forsythe, was not a misses, but a miss also with a child fathered by the blackguard. He would help them as he could not his own child.

Darcy supplemented Odom with wages for the women ensuring their livelihoods. And the two men supplied the women stories of soldier husbands lost in battles. It was a plausible solution as Odom had been a wounded soldier now innkeeper who looked out for “his men's” families.

Now was not the time to think of retribution but order the Gardiner's carriage. They would go to Pemberley now and he would send their things on after they were safely on their way.

The Gardiner's joined the innkeeper out front of his establishment. Odom was sure to place the carriage in such a position that Wickham could not see the couple enter their carriage,

“Mr. Odom, I thank you for your help in this matter,” Mr. Gardiner said as he shook the man's hand.

“Sir, no thanks are necessary. I assure you that the accommodations at Pemberley are much finer than at my inn,” Odom smiled at the couple. “Mr. Darcy will take good care of you, as he does us all. He is a good man.”

“I am becoming more and more aware of this,” Mr. Gardiner replied and glanced at his wife. Darcy had been the basis of the conversation on their walk. Both seemed inclined to believe that the man was sure to offer for their niece.

“Good journey then,” Mr. Odom closed the carriage door and watched as the couple started their short five-mile journey to Pemberley. He was startled when he heard the soft feminine cries of coming from the cellar of house where Mr. Simon kept lodgings.

Chapter 4

“Miss Bennet, as you do not ride, it would be my pleasure to walk with you to Pemberley. But let us take the shorter way. There is a path through the meadow there. It is clearly visible from the road,” Darcy said with a smile and gestured to the direction he wished them to take.

“If we wait for my uncle and aunt, we could accompany them in their carriage…”

“True, Miss Bennet…” Darcy made steady use of her formal address even if he could only think of her as Elizabeth. His Elizabeth. “But I believe it serves us to quit the area quickly and outside the possible view of a particular person.”

“You may be right, Mr. Darcy.” Elizabeth smiled and began her walk toward Pemberley with her hands behind her back. She made sure that his mount, though slight behind them, served as a barrier.

They walked quietly and quickly but not so that it would cause suspicion in passersby. They were far enough from the road not to be recognized, though his horse and clothes would surely give him away. He felt assured that if noticed, most would believe he was walking with Georgiana as they often took this path while they were in residence.

“Mr. Darcy?” Elizabeth finally spoke after the two had walked some distance.

“Yes, Miss Bennet?” Darcy struggled with the use of her surname. In the months since their meeting in Kent, he could not keep her from his thoughts. Even though he believed he would never see her again, every thing he did, he did for her. He so wanted to be the type of man she could love… could marry. Her words to him that fateful day made him look at himself in a way he never had before. But no matter what he did, he could only think of her as his, his wife and the mother of his children.

But she did not love him. She thought him the last man in the world she could ever be prevailed upon to marry. Would she see he had changed and would she allow him to be her friend? Would she allow him to help her as only he could?

“Can you not explain more of Mr. Wickham to me, sir?” Lizzy chanced a glance at the gentleman. She saw something in his eyes… wretchedness and something else that caused a touch of anguish in his eyes.

Darcy sighed and spoke without looking at the woman at his side, “I am not one to narrate the concerns of others. I am not a… gossip… Miss Bennet.”

“I am not asking you to gossip, Mr. Darcy. But you yourself implied a supplemental content of that… gentleman's,” Elizabeth almost spat the word. “character. I understand the history does not concern you directly, but it seems to be important enough that my propinquity be removed.”

“You are correct again, Miss Bennet,” he said with a smile. “I do not feel it proper that I explain him detail, however. Suffice it to say that Mr. Wickham has been known to not value the feminine sex as it should be, madam. He can be… cruel, heartless. Whereas, I do not feel that your sister is the safest hands, I believe he may use her for other reasons.”

Elizabeth stopped walking and turned pale in an instant.

Darcy grabbed her elbow and let her to a short stone wall to sit.

“I am sorry to have disturbed you so, Eliz… Miss Bennet.”

Lizzy didn't trust herself to speak without a sob escaping so she just nodded and looked at the softness in his eyes. His eyes were beautiful, green as the meadow and mesmerizing. She felt safe staring into them.

“I must ask… did Miss Lydia know that you traveled with the Gardiner's to Derbyshire, Elizabeth?” Darcy asked softly.

Did he call her “Elizabeth” or was she only thinking he did? She continued to stare at his eyes. Only when he touched her arm and began to repeat the question did she realize she had not answered.

“She knew I planned to visit the Lake District my aunt and uncle, but she had left for Brighton before their arrival and announcement of the change of plan. She would not care to hear of my travels. She would think them too dull. But that does not mean Kitty would not write to her of it. Why does it matter?”

He dropped his horse's lead and stooped in front of her and took both of her hands in his. He paused before speaking and when he did, he kept his voice quiet and soothing.

“You had a preference for Mr. Wickham at one time…”

“I do not. Not any longer!”

“Shh. Shh. I know you do not, but you did at one time. Though you enjoyed his company, I do not see you purposely putting yourself into his path…”

“Of course not!” Elizabeth said in an almost offended voice.

Darcy smiled and continued, “Of course. You are a lady. I suspect that he did take the opportunity to find himself near you as much as possible when in company?”

“He was… attentive.”

“Were his… attentions to you constant during his stay in Meryton?” Darcy felt his gut twist not really wanting to know but he had to ascertain Wickham's motives. He needed to understand if the blackguard was truly interested in Elizabeth or was he using her as a conduit for information.

“He would make it a point seek me out during social gatherings. His interested seemed constant until Mary King came into the neighborhood.”

“Mary King?”

“Yes, she is the niece of Mr. Matthias. Her parents were killed and left her in the care of the mother's brother.” Elizabeth thought for a second and added, “Her and her ten thousand pounds.”

“What happened with Miss King?”

“Her uncle took her from the area. I assume he was not too fond of the match.”

“What did Mr. Wickham do after Miss King departed?”

“I saw him again at Longbourn. He came with the other officers and Mrs. Forrester for tea. I was not long returned from Kent…” Elizabeth paused as she swiped at a tear that escaped traveling down her cheek.

Darcy pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and dabbed her eyes then handed her the cloth. He did not prod her for more information, but patiently let her catch her breath before continuing.

“He seemed cheerful enough. He was eager to return his attentions to me even though I did not have a fortune.” Elizabeth saw the sadness in Darcy's eyes and wanted to make him understand that she no longer cared about Wickham, her alliances were now with him. “I told him that I had been to Kent. That I had met Lady Catherine. That you and Colonel Fitzwilliam had also been present.”

Darcy raised an eyebrow. “I do not suppose he was happy with the information.”

“He seemed… worried for a moment but recovered quickly. He asked if you were much improved; if you were much changed in essentials.” Darcy humpft and snickered. “I told him that you were very much the same in essentials, but I had understood you more since I had been in your company.” Elizabeth blushed and looked down at the bit of cloth in her hands. “I tried to impart…”

Darcy could not help but smile. “That he should direct his interests elsewhere?”

Elizabeth `s head snapped up as she quickly uttered, “Yes!”

“And did he?”

“He had no choice. The militia left for Brighton almost immediately. I departed soon after.”

Elizabeth seemed to grow less emotional and started to look about for others who might see the area's most prominent citizen kneeling before her. Though he was not acting improper, someone seeing from the road may get the wrong idea and Elizabeth could only think of her aunt and what her comments had been earlier in the day. Aunt Gardiner would surely believe that Mr. Darcy was making her an offer of marriage.

Darcy watched her check their situation and rose, taking a few steps away from her. “Do not worry. We are concealed from the road here. Georgiana and I walk this path often. No one would believe that there is anything amiss.”

No one but her aunt and uncle maybe.

“Mr. Darcy, I do not understand to what all these questions attend. That man has my sister and if what you say is correct, Lydia could be in extreme peril.”

“I do not believe that Wickham will harm Miss Lydia, except to take what is irretrievable. But you are the best judge as to whether your sister would allow him to believe that he …”

“Mr. Darcy, I am sure you have been my sister's company enough to know the answer to that.”

“Then your sister's virtue I cannot protect. But I can protect yours and possibly salvage the situation so that your family may continue to enjoy the respect of your neighbors.”

“Mine?”

“I do not believe it is by chance that Wickham is here. I can envision him heading to London where he can hide easily. Lambton is not a safe place for him. There are many here who would not be happy to see him…”

“At the moment, I am one,” Elizabeth said in exasperation as she stood. “I am sorry. That is not how a lady should speak.”

“No. No. I understand you, Miss Bennet,” He whispered as he walked slow back toward her. “I cannot think of you in any way but as a lady, madam.” With that said, he placed his hands on either side of her waist. As she gasped, he lifted her onto his horse that had wondered up behind her.

“We have spent too much time here. We must arrive at Pemberley before the Gardiner's.”

Darcy grabbed the reins and swung himself up on his mount just behind Elizabeth.

“Mr. Darcy!”

“We shall be faster if we go by horseback. I will stop the horse in the grove before the house. We shall dismount there and continue on foot.” Darcy dug his heals into the side of his horse commanding him to trot. Darcy leaned into her and with his mouth next to her ear, whispered, “Hold on, Elizabeth.”

Suddenly the horse broke into a gallop and Elizabeth grabbed onto Darcy's arms as she let out a light shriek.

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“Ah, dear Georgiana! And where is your brother this fine morning,” Caroline Bingley simpered.

“Morning? Caroline! It is almost Noon,” Charles Bingley looked past the tabloid sheet he was reading.

“But it is not yet Noon, brother dear. So it is still morning, is it not Georgiana?” Caroline now stood next to the young girl, her false smile towering down on Darcy's quiet sister.

Not wanting to cause dissention between brother and sister by agreeing with Mr. Bingley, Georgiana chose to answer Caroline's original question. “My brother rode into Lambton. He has some business to take care of this morning.”

Georgiana only hoped that business had to do with the lovely Elizabeth Bennet. Her brother was dressed more for courting than for business. Not that she would tell horrid Caroline Bingley that.

Georgiana knew it was wrong to think of Miss Bingley in that manner, but she could not warm to the woman. She knew her brother also did not prefer her. She could see it in his eyes just as she saw in his eyes how much he did warm to Elizabeth Bennet. She would like it very much if Elizabeth would be her new sister. Very much.

“What could take him there so early in the day?” Caroline continued to inquire hoping that Darcy was collecting money from some disgusting farmer and not spending any more time in the company of Eliza Bennet or those Cheapside relatives of hers.

The sound of a carriage coming up the drive interrupted any answer, so Miss Bingley smiled at Mrs. Hurst who was watching her sister with pride.

“That must be him now!” Mrs. Hurst finally spoke.

“Oh, it could not be. My brother would not take out a carriage, he would ride,” Georgiana rose knowing that it had to be a guest. Elizabeth she hoped.

“Not after I am Mistress of this house…” Caroline muttered to herself not realizing that Georgiana heard her.

Georgiana left the room to greet whomever was paying a call. Her happy voice greeting the Gardiner's made Caroline roll her eyes and as she sat next to Louisa, she murmured, “Must we be subjected to those who make their living in trade? When I become Mrs. Darcy the likes of them will never set foot in this house.” Louisa giggled lightly.

Georgiana escorted the Gardiner's into the room with the others where Mr. Bingley rose to make his greetings and Miss Darcy offered them tea or coffee.

“And where is Miss Eliza this morning? Miss Bingley asked.

Realizing that neither their niece nor Mr. Darcy must have returned to Pemberley, the Gardiner's looked at each other slightly startled, but very hopeful.

“Why, I believe Mr. Darcy is escorting our niece to Pemberley, Miss Bingley,” Mrs. Gardiner said as she looked to Miss Darcy for confirmation.

Georgiana Darcy was all of sixteen, but she understood the implications of her brother being alone with Miss Elizabeth Bennet. She also knew her brother would never do anything to dishonor anyone, let alone a lady. She also knew the Gardiner's seemed worried.

Remembering how Elizabeth had saved her from making a fool of herself at Miss Bingley's mention of George Wickham the evening before, Georgiana decided that second that she would do the same for the woman she prayed would be her sister someday soon.

“I believe Elizabeth expressed an interest in seeing the lilies that grow near our duck pond. Since my brother was escorting her from town, I am sure he took the meadow path.” Georgiana turned toward the Gardiner's. “It follows the road until you come near the duck pond. She seemed very interested in them after I showed her my drawings. I do hope she did not try to pick one however. It is quite muddy. It is not possible to escape the mud when gathering them.”

Mrs. Gardiner smiled knowing that mud would be the last thing that would stop Elizabeth from gathering flowers.

“I heard you say that you are not very favorable to mud, Miss Darcy,” Mrs. Gardiner smiled at the young girl.

“I am afraid you are correct, Mrs. Gardiner. My governess was very strict about such things.”

“Well, since I also heard that you thought those flowers to be your favorite, I have a feeling my niece will brave the harrows to gift them to you.”

“Oh, yes, dear Georgiana,” Miss Bingley interrupted. “Miss Eliza once walked three miles to Netherfield across muddy roads to visit her sister who had taken ill.”

“Oh!” Georgiana exclaimed. “But to traverse through such to visit an ill relative is much more worth the inconvenience than silly flowers!”

Mr. Gardiner laughed. “Oh, not to our dear Lizzy. Why, as a young girl, she was known to climb trees.”

While the group laughed, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst's insincere, Georgiana prayed that her brother and Elizabeth Bennet arrived with a bunch of her favorite gathered lilies, if not some happy news. And if Georgiana Darcy was lucky, both.

Chapter 5

All eyes turned toward the foyer and the sight of Darcy and Elizabeth arriving. As Miss Darcy and Mrs. Gardiner shared hopeful smiles, Darcy asked that his steward be summoned to his study immediately. With a quick bow of his head, Mr. Darcy requested Elizabeth to precede him into the small parlor where the others were already gathered.

“Mr. Darcy,” Edward Gardiner strode to the master of the house with an open hand in greeting.

“Mr. Gardiner. Mrs. Gardiner,” Darcy shook the man's hand and nodded to his wife. “I am happy to see you have arrived. Your niece and I took the meadow path from town. We must have just missed each other at the turn off.”

Darcy turned to his sister and smiled. His eyes grew soft and his voice changed to match the green orbs.

“I apologize, little one. The banks of the pond were much too wet for gathering your blooms.”

Elizabeth looked at Darcy with a bit of confusion and a touch of shock when she realized that he was inventing a scheme to explain their delay. She had forgotten he had approached during Miss Darcy and her discussion of flowers the evening before.

“Oh, brother. I knew you would take Elizabeth to my favorite place if you walked the meadow path. But you do not need to bring me the lilies. As much as I love them, they will have a longer life where they are,” Georgiana spoke excitedly.

Darcy turned back and winked at Elizabeth much to the consternation of Miss Bingley.

Miss Bingley was about to comment when Darcy interrupted by addressing the gentlemen in the room.

“Bingley? Mr. Gardiner? May I request that you join me in my study? I have a matter of great importance to discuss.”

If Mr. Gardiner thought that Darcy was to ask permission to court Elizabeth or for even for her hand, he quickly realized that Mr. Bingley's presences would be unnecessary, if not improper. His expression quickly changed to something more serious and somber. His eyes narrowed and stared at the gentleman who was now standing in front of him.

“Sir? What is going on?” Gardiner's tone was severe.

“Uncle…” Elizabeth interrupted.

“No!” Darcy commanded as he turned toward her. “Please. Allow me and in private. May I ask you for your letters?”

Elizabeth stared up into his green pools and, as if she were in a trance, slowly removed the missives from the pocket of her pelisse. She held them out to him.

“Thank you,” Darcy said in a voice softer than the one he used with his sister. With one of the smiles that she had come to love, Darcy grinned at her before turning to the men. “Gentlemen. This way.”

“Shall we all remove to the music room?” Georgiana asked. Suddenly she felt nervous and out of her element. She was more confident in the music room and thought she would be able to handle the task of hostess better in a safe haven. “Mrs. Reynolds? Would you please bring us tea?”

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Mr. Marware, Darcy's steward, nodded to the gentlemen as they passed into the master's study. Darcy held back and spoke quietly to his estate manager. Bingley and Gardiner heard the servant reply with, “Immediately, sir!” just before he made his exit the way the others had come.

Darcy closed the door and motioned for the men to take seats.

“What is going on, Darcy?” Mr. Gardiner demanded. He thought as his wife did, that the gentleman was to offer for his niece, but now he suspected that was not the case. And he was not happy about the situation.

“Mr. Gardiner, perhaps these will lay the foundation for our conversation,” Darcy said as handed Elizabeth's letters over to the man.

“Letters from Jane?” Gardiner looked at Darcy and Bingley's attention was at full alert.

“Yes. I came to the inn to make an invitation for you and your party to join us earlier than originally agreed upon,” Darcy said evenly knowing his original purpose had been to ask Elizabeth's permission to court her. If he could change her mind about him…

“Sir?” Gardiner prompted.

“I found Miss Bennet in distress over the contents of those,” Darcy pointed to the sheets in Gardiner's hand then looked at Bingley. “I am going to need your help Bingley… We are going to need your help…”

“Of course, Darcy. I will help you with whatever you wish. You know this, but what is it that is needs such a service?”

“Angels on high!” Mr. Gardiner shouted as he looked up from the letters in his hands before looking back down and continuing to read until both messages had been absorbed.

“Mr. Gardiner? May Bingley…? We will need his assistance.” Darcy gestured toward the letters.

“I… I do not know how either he or you, sir, can help with this situation. I only hope that it is all a misunderstanding and none of this is how it seems…”

“Sir, I'm afraid that it is more than it seems. Mr. Wickham was seen in the pub at the Lambton Inn. Myself as well as Miss Bennet saw him. Miss Lydia was not with him, but I am sure that she is somewhere near,” Darcy slipped the papers from Gardiner's hands and passed them to Bingley. “I fear I must relay information that will be very disturbing. It is necessary for you to understand the monster we are dealing with and the reasons I believe he has come here instead losing himself in the mews of London.”

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After tea was served in the music room, Caroline Bingley assumed control over the party and took on the role of hostess. Though Georgiana did not desire the task, especially with the sudden tension that invaded the house upon the arrival of her brother and Miss Bennet, she did not relish Miss Bingley's audacity in assuming it. It felt very improper and, if she must surrender her position as the mistress of the house, Georgiana only felt comfortable allowing Miss Elizabeth Bennet the position.

Mrs. Gardiner sat next to Elizabeth and kept her gaze upon her husband's niece. Something was not right, but nothing could be voiced in company nor would it be polite to excuse themselves from the group, especially since they were just arrived. She was waiting until she could capture Lizzy's eye to discern if Mr. Darcy had at least attempted to make an offer of marriage. Had his second attempt been as poorly produced as the first? Did Elizabeth do the unthinkable and refuse him yet again? Mrs. Gardiner hoped not. It was very apparent to her that not only did Mr. Darcy care a great deal for Lizzy, but that Elizabeth cared for Mr. Darcy. It was the only subject Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner spoke of that morning on their outing to the church. When they returned to the inn and had been informed by Mr. Odom that Mr. Darcy was escorting their niece to Pemberley and that their presence was immediately requested at the grand home, they believed the gentleman too impatient to make his offer and thus took the opportunity for the chance of a private conversation with Elizabeth.

Only when the couple entered the house just after the Gardiner's arrival did anyone believe there might be something amiss. Mr. Darcy's curt request for not only Mr. Gardiner to join him in his study but Mr. Bingley as well turned the atmosphere to confusing rather than joyous.

After the gentlemen left the room and Georgiana led the group to the music room, Mrs. Reynolds served the tea. No sooner did the housekeeper leave and Miss Bingley bullied the girl out of her rightful position in a sweeping move of rudeness.

“Eliza! It was so nice of you to come early. We did not expect you until this afternoon,” Caroline smiled. “Would anyone care for sugar?”

Finally finding her voice, Georgiana attempted her shift of control. “Miss Bingley, Elizabeth and her family are welcome at Pemberley anytime… night or day.”

Miss Bingley was shocked at the girl's boldness and held her tongue just a moment too long and Elizabeth was able to voice a reply first.

“Thank you, Miss Darcy. That is most kind of you,” Elizabeth smiled at the girl as she reached out and touched Georgiana's hand. “Though I would be sure to lose my way at night, so I shall try to keep my visits for the light of day.”

In an attempt to curb the conversation from becoming anymore inappropriate, Mrs. Gardiner asked, “Did you go by way of the duck pond, Elizabeth?”

Elizabeth pulled her teacup from her lips, “Mmm. Yes. Though the mud was even too deep for me I'm afraid. Mr. Darcy insisted that I not attempt to gather any of your favorite lilies, Miss Darcy.”

Georgiana blushed and then looked toward Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst. “I was disappointed not to hear either of you play last evening. Would you favor us with a song now?”

“Oh! I would be delighted, dear Georgiana!” Miss Bingley seemed very pleased by the request. “Louisa, come turn pages for me.” Here was her chance to put Eliza Bennet to shame. Caroline knew her playing, though not as proficient as Georgiana's, was far superior to Eliza's. Surely, Georgiana would notice and mention such to her brother.

The two women rose and made their way to the pianoforte. Both Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner looked at Georgiana with a sense of awe. Miss Darcy smiled and had to giggle softly after Caroline began banging on the keys.

“She has been bragging all morning about her abilities on the pianoforte and how she did not exhibit last night. I felt she would enjoy the… opportunity to… to be of… notice.”

Both Elizabeth and her aunt hid their smiles behind their teacups until Miss Darcy continued by asking, “Did my brother make you an offer, Elizabeth?”

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“Why, sir, did you not make any of this known in Hertfordshire? Surely, this type of information would have…” Mr. Gardiner growled as he paced the floor.

“Sir, it would have been my intelligence against his assurances. I was in a community where he was able to form favorable impression where I had failed…” Darcy interrupted trying to keep calm. It was not his place to impart hearsay while in residence at Netherfield.

“Had you governed in your disagreeable manner, Darcy, you would have made a better impression,” Bingley offered.

“But I did not, Bingley! I am well aware of that. Remember, my friend, that you invited me to that part of the country in an effort to reclaim my temper after trying to set to rights yet another one of that blackguards transgressions!”

Bingley nodded and then shook his head in dismay. He still did not know the particulars of Darcy's dealings with Wickham the prior summer, but what he had just heard of the man it could not have been good.

“If it is of any consolation, I did speak with Colonel Forrester about the Wickham. I even offered my cousin's evidence.” Darcy then turned and clarified his statement to Mr. Gardiner, “My cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, is familiar to Colonel Forrester. I had hoped that Forrester took the time to authenticate my statements. I assumed he had. When Wickham did not attend your ball, Bingley, I thought the matter resolved, that Colonel Forrester was keeping rein on him.”

“I am sorry, Mr. Darcy,” Mr. Gardiner interjected. “I realize that Wickham was the responsibility of the militia commander as soon as he bound himself to serve. You were correct in speaking to his commanding officer and not rattling about Hertfordshire against him. I cannot say the people of Meryton would have heeded your word, but I you still have my anger, sir. I cannot help but give it!”

“I understand, Mr. Gardiner. If it is of any consolation, I agree with your ire. I require much of the blame, sir, and will do my best to reclaim your respect..”

“I do not wish to humble you, Mr. Darcy. I just want to ensure Elizabeth's safety. If what you say is true, then he must all ready know that we have come to the area.”

“I can see no other reason for his presence here, Mr. Gardiner. I have known Mr. Wickham all my life. Even as a boy he cared not for anything but what would indulge his own pleasures. Where lucre would be his constant requirement, his entertainment or sport would be women. Those of the female sex that offer him no resistance would be his toys and a woman that presents a challenge would be the game he hunts.”

“With her ignorance, Lydia would offer no resistance…” Mr. Gardiner's expression turned sad then fearful.

“And Eliz… er… Miss Elizabeth Bennet would not only contest Wickham with her wit, but also oppose any...”

“Yes! Yes, she would,” Mr. Gardiner agreed with a defeated tone.

“My singling her out at Bingley's ball would have also acted as an incentive. If word made its way to Wickham and he realized…” Darcy turned away from the men and looked out the window. He blamed himself for so many of things Wickham had done through the years. If only he had spoken with his father and let him know that Wickham was not worthy of the attention George Darcy had given his godson.

“… your preference for my niece?” Mr. Gardiner finished for him and Bingley stared at his friend with quiet question.

“Yes.” Darcy stated emphatically as he tugged to straighten his waistcoat. “That is for naught now. What is important is that we assure the safety of both your nieces. As soon as my steward returns with specific information, I will tell you of my plan.

Chapter 6

“Did my brother make you an offer, Elizabeth?”

Elizabeth almost spewed her just sipped tea but luckily caught herself without choking on the warm brew. Quickly dabbing her mouth with a serviette, Lizzy turned toward the girl.

“Miss Darcy, I do not think…”

“Miss Bingley? Is there something amiss? You stopped playing. I must say you play very well,” Mrs. Gardiner addressed the taller of the sisters at the pianoforte, thus informing the two young ladies she sat with that their conversation was being attended to by unwanted ears.

Caroline Bingley stared at the trio of women sitting before her. Did she hear correctly? Did Georgiana Darcy think her brother would make an offer of marriage to… to this chit… this country upstart? It was obvious that the man lusted over Eliza Bennet. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst had noticed the physical evidence of that, but he would never stoop so low as to offer marriage to a woman so below him. Make her his mistress, undoubtedly, but marriage? Caroline could see she would have to school the young Miss Darcy on a few worldly subjects.

“I beg your pardon, Mrs. Gardiner,” Caroline smiled insincerely. “I could have sworn one of you addressed me. My mistake.”

Though Miss Bingley began to play again, she kept her eye on the women in attendance. Had she mistaken the conversation? Her suspicion was confirmed when Mrs. Hurst lean into her and whispered, “You must talk to that child, Caroline! I know it is a bit presumptuous of Darcy to bring his mistress and her family and parade them under your nose. But for him to allow her to befriend that poor child is heartless. Does he think you would refuse his suit?”

“He knows that I will not. He also knows that I do not care if he keeps a mistress or two, but I will choose them. I will make sure they will be discrete and not flaunt themselves like this one does. We must think of Georgiana's future,” Caroline whispered back to her sister. “He is trying to make a point with me and I will not have it.”

Georgiana took advantage of the Bingley sisters' conspiratorial conversation to re-ask her question silently.

Elizabeth noticed the young girl's eagerness for an answer and raised her teacup to hide her moving lips. “Miss Darcy…”

“Georgiana.” The girl amended.

“It is not polite to interrupt, Georgiana.” Elizabeth corrected her but noticed her censure did nothing to remove the eager smile on the girls face. Sipping her tea, Lizzy looked at her aunt and her host's sister as they both now stared at her waiting for an answer.

Elizabeth leaned forward and set her teacup on the table. In a hushed voice revealed that Mr. Darcy had made her no offer of the kind they were thinking. Noticing the disappointment in Georgiana's eyes, Lizzy put her hand on her aunt's and shook her head at the woman's shocked look. “No, Aunt,” Lizzy whispered the response to the unasked inquiry.

The happy mood of the threesome was instantly gone, but Elizabeth knew that whatever the two women on either side of her thought, they needed to remain united in a cordial front for the sisters exhibiting their musical skills. Despite the horrendous truth about Lydia, Elizabeth felt that this moment would be the calm before the storm and wanted to enjoy what brief moments she had of it. Taking each woman's hand in one of her own, Lizzy whispered, “Your questions will be answered soon enough, Aunt. Georgiana, should we not have a pleasant countenance for Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst?”

As the woman displayed their best smiles, Georgiana looked at Miss Elizabeth Bennet from the corner of her eye. Yes, she would make my brother a wonderful wife. And from the warm hand holding hers, she knew she had already found a sister. Even Elizabeth's reminders were said in a warm caring manner.

Miss Darcy could only wonder what put such lines of worry around the eyes and the tightness in the grip of the sister of her heart.

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A knock on the solid wood of the doors interrupted the men's thoughts. Darcy turned from the window he was staring blindly out of and uttered a curt, “Yes?”

Mr. Marware entered and glanced at his employer then at the two gentlemen also occupying the room.

“It is all right, Marware. You are free to speak.”

“Mr. Darcy, young Robert Ford brought word from Odom. Mr. Odom feels the girl has been locked in the cellars at Wright House… where Mr. Simon resides. Odom's cook has a friend in one of the chambermaids there. I understand the maid is… reliable, sir.”

Darcy nodded. “Tell Odom to ensure Miss Lydia's safety but have her remain where she is for the time being.” Darcy put his hand up to stop Mr. Gardiner from interrupting. “Have young Ford tell Simon that he is needed to help Lawton with an emergency. Then have the Gardiner's trunks readied for travel back to town. Also have Miss Bennet's trunk filled with Hannah's things. Then have Miss Bennet's things brought here. Go!” Darcy waved off his steward and as soon as the door was securely closed he turned to Bingley and Mr. Gardiner.

“Mr. Gardiner. We need to remove Mr. Wickham from the area and in order to accomplish that we must make him think he is chasing his prey.”

“Mr. Darcy, where that may be how that devil thinks of my niece, I would prefer not to have her referred to in that manner!” Mr. Gardiner spat.

It was obvious that Mr. Gardiner held onto his anger, but allowed Darcy to carry the plan since he had better knowledge of the adversary.

“I quite agree, sir,” Darcy acquiesced. “To remove him from the vicinity and both of your nieces, we will have to make him believe that Miss Elizabeth will be leaving the area with you…”

“Ah! Your version of a Trojan Horse, Darcy?” Bingley asked.

“The idea is similar, Bingley. Where I am proposing a diversion, I am not doing it by making Wickham a peace offering.” Darcy clarified. “Hannah will accompany you in Eliz… Miss Bennet's place, Mr. Gardiner. You will go to London under the guise of helping Mr. Bennet search for Miss Lydia. Wickham has no use for your youngest niece now except perhaps… please excuse my language, sir… to trade her with Simon… for a horse. With that done and Simon miles out on Lawton's farm, Miss Lydia will keep to the cellars at Wright House.

“Once both men are away, we can free Miss Lydia and return her to Longbourn. That is where you come in Bingley. Since your party is planning to continue your travels, you can escort Miss Lydia back to Hertfordshire. You can let it be known around the area you traveled by way of Brighton on your way to inquire at Netherfield , you and your sisters thought it would be a kindness to return a homesick Miss Lydia Bennet back to her family. I'm sure the militia colonel will be happy to defend the account.

“I will follow Wickham as he makes his way to London. I have already instructed my steward to send an express to my cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam who is currently attending one of his Generals in town. He and I can make sure that Wickham is kept far away from any of young lady. I hold several of his notes…”

“What about Lizzy?” Mr. Gardiner asked.

“I was hoping she would be kind enough to remain with my sister and her companion until everything is settled. Then the three ladies would travel to London in one of my carriages. She then can be returned to Longbourn at your convenience.”

Gardiner stared at the young gentleman and slowly smiled. “I have underestimated you, Darcy. Your plan is simple, allows for scandal to be easily explained and serves propriety.”

“Thank you, sir. But time is of the essence to make this plan work. We must return you, your wife and Hannah back to Lambton while Wickham is still in his cups. But I will give you time to inform your wife and niece while I have my housekeeper explain to Hannah. I must insist that you see that the young servant is cared for, Mr. Gardiner. She has a small child who will be waiting for her to return.”

“Of course.”

“I will have your family sent to you, sir, so you may inform them of our plan,” Darcy stated. “Bingley, will you meet me in the library in a quarter hour? I have a few things I need to impart.” Darcy knew that he needed to let his friend know that he had been wrong about Jane's Bennet's feelings and her being in town. He knew that his friend would be angry with him, but if they could carry out this plan, then his friend could find his happiness at last.

He just wished he could have had his happiness as well. But he had his chance and lost it. Now he will right this wrong of Wickham's. He only hoped that the opportunity would present itself for Wickham to be in the right position that he could exact his own revenge.

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Mrs. Reynolds entered the music room and nodded to Miss Darcy. The young girl offered her apologies to her guests and made her way to the housekeeper.

“No mud, Miss Eliza? I truly am surprised you made the walk from Lambton without encountering any on your petticoats,” Miss Bingley smiled over her cup and she and Mrs. Hurst tittered at the thought.

“It was a dry walk, Miss Bingley. Where I would gladly suffer mud on my petticoats to retrieve Miss Darcy her favorite blooms, Mr. Darcy felt it was not safe to do so. He thought the ground too soft to support my efforts.” Elizabeth smiled. Somehow she knew that the more she mentioned being in Mr. Darcy's company, it would throw the woman off guard.

Elizabeth was also aware that it was making Caroline Bingley angrier by reminding her that Mr. Darcy showed her no preference. But she did not care too much about Miss Bingley or Mrs. Hurst at the moment. Lydia was all she could think of; Lydia and the very disturbing feelings that she experienced during the ride to Pemberley.

Not one who enjoyed horses, Elizabeth should have been nervous riding on the back of the steed. But the thought of the horse left her head the moment Darcy mounted the animal behind her. The sight of her legs draped over one of his and his nearness as the animal sped across the meadow was the only thing she could think of. She could not even remember the wind at her face for the thought of Mr. Darcy in such close proximity.

Miss Darcy informed Elizabeth and her aunt that Mr. Gardiner requested them to join him in Mr. Darcy's study. Miss Darcy excused herself to meet with her brother in the library and Mr. Bingley entered to attend his sisters.

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“Brother?”

“Ah, Georgiana. Come sit. I have something I must tell you.” Darcy smiled at his young sister and ward.

Georgiana was puzzled since Elizabeth had made it clear that there was no offer of marriage. Why was there worry and sadness in her brother's expression?

“I'm afraid the Gardiner's and Miss Bennet have received some troubling news,” Darcy started.

“Oh, I hope no one is ill!”

“No. Not ill, Georgiana,” Darcy said quietly as he knelt in front of his sister and relayed the news of Miss Lydia Bennet and the presence of Wickham in Lambton.

Darcy was proud of his young sibling. Tough she exhibited shock, pain, sadness and anger; she also flowed with compassion for Elizabeth and her younger sister.

“She cannot know what he is, brother!” Miss Darcy exclaimed.

“You are right, sweetling. She is but the same age as you were. I do not believe her to be as mature as you at that age. I cannot fault Miss Lydia just as I did not fault you, my sweet Georgiana.”

“We must help her!”

“That is my plan. We have already started to act upon my scheme. It is best that I do not tell you of it except that Miss Elizabeth will remain here with you until we have captured Wickham. Once he is taken care of, she will be safe to return home.”

“Will you be remaining here, brother?”

“No. I will follow Wickham. Do not worry. I will take assurances so that he is not aware that I shadow him.”

Georgiana saddened that she would not have the opportunity to play matchmaker, but at least that horrid devil would never be able to hurt Elizabeth or anyone else ever again. She knew that her brother would make sure of it.

“The Bingley's?” Georgiana quickly remembered to ask.

“Once Wickham is gone from the area, Mr. Bingley and his sisters along with Mr. Hurst will return Miss Lydia to Hertfordshire.” Darcy rose and offered his hand to Miss Darcy. “Ask Miss Bennet to inform you of the rest after we have all gone. I must speak with Bingley now.”

Darcy kissed his sister's forehead and marveled at how much she had matured since the previous summer. Yes, Georgiana would be fine.

Chapter 7

To say Bingley was angry was an understatement. Somehow he had no trouble believing his sisters' actions. Caroline particularly had ill feelings for the Bennet sisters almost immediately. Louisa. Well Louisa would follow her younger sister just to stay amused. Hurst only had time for shooting and drinking. It was no wonder Louisa kept herself occupied with Caroline.

But Darcy! Oh, Bingley supposed the gentleman could misinterpret Jane Bennet's feelings. If it did not have anything to do with farming, sheep, horses, fencing or poetry, Darcy would not be able to identify it. But the fact that he had a preference for Miss Elizabeth should have permitted him to commiserate enough to allow him that Jane had been in London all winter.

“Darcy, I cannot believe you! How dare you presume a lady's feelings! You seem to have no trouble displaying your preference for Miss Elizabeth, so why would it be so wrong that should court Miss Bennet?” Bingley's anger could not be stopped. Always one to be cheery, he could not find it in himself at the moment.

“Bingley, I cannot offer enough of an apology, I know, but…”

“No. You cannot!” Bingley railed. “I agree that the Bennet's status is not as lofty as your own, but Mr. Bennet is a gentleman from a long line of gentlemen. I am the grandson of a tradesman, Darcy! I do not care if Mrs. Bennet is as crazy as a loon! It is Jane who is the angel and she made me happy, Darcy. Happy!”

“It is why I suggested you return Miss Lydia to Longbourn, Bingley,” Darcy spoke quietly, his voice carrying a touch of meekness. “Perhaps Miss Elizabeth would scribe a note to her sister relaying you truly had no information of Miss Bennet being in London.”

Darcy and Bingley mirrored their pacing about the library staring at one another as if they were caged animals challenging the other to attack.

“I am not proud of myself, Bingley. I have tried to right my wrongs. Arrogance is not a trait I wish associated with me. I was full of contempt to believe I had right to declare what was best for you or Miss Bennet. I owe a great deal to you and the Bennet's.”

“Is this why you do this, Darcy?” Bingley asked. “Because you feel indebted in someway?”

“No, Bingley.” Darcy stared at his friend then down at the handkerchief he had dried Elizabeth's tears with. “I do it because it is the right thing to do.”

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Elizabeth seemed astonished by the plan told to her. She did not wish to remain at Pemberley. She wanted to go to Lambton, take her sister and travel to Longbourn. It seemed best under the circumstances. No matter the reasons for her departure, Lydia brought shame upon her family by leaving with Wickham. It was time to deal with the consequences.

“Elizabeth,” Mr. Gardiner spoke in his calm, fatherly voice. “Do you not understand? We cannot just go and take Lydia. Harm may come to her, you and others. From what Mr. Darcy has told me of Wickham, it is best we do this in a methodically safe manner.”

“But Uncle…”

“No, Lizzy. You will be here to explain to Lydia and calm her. My sister may have turned her into a wild girl, but I do know that Lydia has respect for you. She may not always exhibit it, but I have always seen it in her eyes.”

Elizabeth looked at her uncle with skepticism.

“Elizabeth, please. Mr. Darcy is trying to keep scandal from following you and your sisters. He understands too well the…”

“I know, uncle. I know of Miss Darcy's… interaction… with Mr. Wickham.”

“Then you must go along with this stratagem!”

`Yes, uncle.” Elizabeth relented.

“It is for the best, Lizzy,” Aunt Gardiner added.

Elizabeth consoled herself with the thought that at least she would be spared dealing with her mother's nerves; however, she did not relish quieting Lydia and her “praises” of Mr. Wickham. Her uncle may believe she had Lydia's respect, but it wasn't enough to check her. It was too late for that.

Elizabeth nodded and her uncle again assured her it was all for the best before the three left the study to join the others.

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“I apologize for the interruption of our conversation Miss Bingley, Mrs. Hurst,” Georgiana offered as she returned to the music room and took her seat.

“Is there something wrong, Georgiana? May we be of some assistance?” Caroline offered before Eliza Bennet returned and claimed the girl's attention.

“Oh! Well… thank you, Miss Bingley, but there is nothing for you to worry about.”

“Are you sure, dear?” Mrs. Hurst added.

Caroline smiled and in a low voice offered, “Is your brother attempting to hasten the Gardiner party's departure? I know the perfect way. I ….”

“Miss Darcy. Miss Bingley. Mrs. Hurst. I'm sorry for the disruption,” Elizabeth spoke apologetically as she returned to her seat.

“Eliza,” Caroline Bingley sneered as her sister managed a nod.

“I must offer my aunt's apologies. Mr. Darcy is escorting my uncle and aunt back to Lambton. There is a matter that requires their presence, so we shall be a smaller party it seems.” Elizabeth smiled pleasantly.

Georgiana watched her friend and noticed that though she was able to exhibit a joyful countenance, she could not hide the worry evidenced in the constant movement of her fingers.

As Caroline and Louisa shared a look with raised eyebrows, Georgiana attempted to make the conversation lighter.

“I feel that I am at a disadvantage as I find that I am jealous of all three of you,” Georgiana admitted.

“Dear Georgiana! You have no reason to be jealous of neither Louisa nor I. And especially not of Miss Eliza!”

“Oh, but I do! You see you have what I have always wanted more than anything in the world,” Georgiana said as she glanced and the Bingley sisters and then held Elizabeth in her gaze. “You all have sisters! I have always dreamed of having a sister.”

Elizabeth smiled and covered the girl's hand with her own.

“Oh, Georgiana! You have such a wonderful brother. You have no need of a sister," Caroline said lightly just before Louisa poked her.

“You are quite correct, Miss Bingley. I have a wonderful brother. I could not have better. But you misunderstand me. I do not wish to have a sister in lieu of a brother. I would like to have one in addition. I used to dream when I was younger that my father would re-marry and give me many little sisters. But he loved my mother too much.

“I must admit that I had wished my brother would marry a woman who would wish to be my sister as much as his wife. However…”

“Perhaps he will marry sooner than you believe he will, Miss Darcy,” Mrs. Hurst quickly interjected.

“I do hope that is true, Mrs. Hurst,” Georgiana said as she squeezed Elizabeth's hand while Caroline and Louisa exchanged a smug look of information.

“Ah! Louisa, Caroline! There you are,” Mr. Bingley exclaimed from the doorway.

“What is it, Charles? We thought you would be accompanying Mr. Darcy to Lambton,” Caroline smiled at her brother.

“You cannot say you prefer the company of ladies, can you brother?” Louisa asked.

“Of course I enjoy the company of Miss Darcy and Miss Bennet, my adoring sisters, but I'm afraid that we must be taking our leave.”

“Our leave? We just arrived, Charles!”

“Yes, well, that may be, Caroline. But we will be leaving first thing in the morning. Darcy will be away to London on business. He is not sure of his return, so it is better that we continue our travels.”

“To London? I thought he was just going to the village…”

“Caroline, Darcy's business is not our concern. Miss Darcy will keep company with Miss Bennet until it is time for her to return to her uncle. We have our travels to continue.”

“Eliza! Eliza is to stay here?”

In his anger to move his sisters along, Bingley did not realize his slip until it was too late. “She is closer to Miss Darcy's age, Caroline and has no demands on her time. You on the other hand…”

With a loud sigh and placing her tea cup down rather roughly, Miss Bingley stormed out of the music room and up the stairs throwing a, “I will ready my things!” as she went. Mrs. Hurst rushed to follow her sister.

As the sisters reached the top of the stairs, Caroline whispered to Louisa, "You and Hurst will go with Charles, sister. But I will stay here."

"How do you plan on convincing Charles, my dear Caroline?"

"Do not worry about that, sister. Do not worry about that." miss Bingley said with almost a sinister tone.

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As the afternoon passed, Elizabeth and Georgiana spent most of it in the mistress's garden speaking of many things not Mr. Wickham. The Bingley sisters spent their time plotting and planning while their brother prepared for the journey south. And after Darcy witnessed the Gardiner's departure with Hannah, he clandestinely kept his eye on Wickham.

Like expected, Wickham, having viewed the Gardiner's just outside their carriage speaking to a woman inside they called Elizabeth, quickly bartered with Simon for a horse.

“Simon! I know you have more than one fast horse. Say I give you the girl. Not just for the night, but you may have her. Do with her what you will, in exchange for one of your horses?” Wickham spoke as he draped his arm across Simon's shoulders in a friendly gesture.

“You would give her up for a horse? What is wrong with her?”

“Simon, Lydia is perfect for your use. I just need to leave. The couple in the coach,” Wickham pointed to the departing conveyance. “They are very close to the woman whom I am affianced. I must return to London before them.”

“Ah, you wish them to believe you have a twin, Wickham?”

“Er, yes, Simon. Yes.” Wickham smiled letting Simon believe what he wished. With a horse of value, he could get to London, find Elizabeth on Gracehurch Street and sell the animal and use the funds for part of his passage to America.

“My luck is changing for the better,” Wickham muttered to himself as he accompanied his friend to the livery.

With the plan moving along so well, Darcy started for Pemberley while Wickham gathered his few belongings and provisions needed for his journey. Darcy knew he could cut across the Pemberley lands to make up for any lost time.

Darcy road his horse back to his estate making a mental note of everything he would need for the journey and for his last look at Elizabeth perhaps forever.

Chapter 8

Darcy stopped his mount just outside Pemberley's stables and handed his horse off. He quickly relayed what he would need when he returned to the stables in the half hour and turned in the direction of the house.

He always loved this view of the house. When the sun shone brightly, it would reflect off the lake and dancing reflections would play across the side of the structure. The windows glittered like diamonds, but not like the glitter that he found in a pair of fine eyes.

“For you Elizabeth, I shall conquer this and make your fine eyes happy once again,” Darcy promised as he stood at the edge of his mother's old garden and stared up at the windows that were his rooms and those that would have been Elizabeth's if she had accepted him. With a sigh, he forced himself to move again.

Darcy strode through the garden and walked to an ivy-covered wall. He unlatched a door in the rampart and stepped inside a chamber no bigger than a small closet. Garden tools hung on pegs to one side with a wood panel opposite.

Darcy pushed on a small space on the wood panel and a piece of wood lifted. He grabbed the level-like piece of lumber and pushed, then pulled. The panel opened into a dark cellar passage. Closing the wall door and then the panel, he made his way down the dark passage from memory until he came upon a wall to stop the straight path. Feeling around for the alcove he knew to be there, he found what he was looking for. Opening a small wooden box, he struck a match on the rough stone. Light flooded the small area and he quickly lit a candle.

Light splashed down the hallway that he had just walked and happy memories of his childhood flooded his head. He remembered running the length of the corridor while his mother tended her garden. It was her place. She would secret away with him in tow when her older sister, Catherine, would come to visit.

“You may come here anytime you need to, my sweet. Someday, when you are a man, you can make this you and your wife's secret place,” Lady Anne said to her son.

“Aunt Catherine would have that be my cousin. I do not wish to marry my cousin, mama. She is too sickly and cross to run and play.”

Lady Anne smiled and stroked her son's hair. “You do not have to, my son. No matter what I say to keep Lady Catherine from being cross, know what I tell you now. You must choose your bride with your heart. Listen to your heart, my precious boy. Listen to your heart.”

The voices of the past echoed against the walls and Fitzwilliam Darcy closed his eyes to the pain of not heeding his mother's words until it was too late.

“If I cannot have my heart's desire, I shall protect the one who has my heart now and forever.” With that uttered vow, Darcy turned a corner and took the stairs of a narrow staircase two at a time.

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“I beg your pardon. Miss Bennet? Your things have arrived from the inn,” Mrs. Reynolds notified the women. “I will see that they are taken to your rooms. Is there anything special I need to be aware of, Miss?”

“Oh! Thank you, Mrs. Reynolds. There is nothing. I have every confidence in you and your staff,” Elizabeth smiled at the housekeeper.

Mrs. Reynolds smiled and went above stairs to see to the task. At the top of the staircase, Mrs. Reynolds caught a glance of Miss Bingley and gave her a look as if to say, “Not every young lady needs to supervise the hanging of her gowns” then turned toward the family wing. She had been startled when Mr. Darcy asked to have the young woman's things taken to the green room. That room had not been used for many years now, but after learning of why Miss Bennet was to stay at Pemberley, she knew it to be the safest place for her. Mr. Wickham was not the only trouble to be had. Miss Bingley's obvious dislike of the new houseguest would surely cause difficulties even if she were to leave the estate on the morrow.

The housekeeper opened the door to the green room where the linens had just been changed, the furniture dusted and the floors scrubbed. She saw to this room personally and had done so for the last fourteen years. Though vacant, she kept it as if its previous occupant would enter at any moment. That would never happen. Lady Anne Darcy was gone, if only in body. Mrs. Reynolds saw her former mistress in Miss Georgiana's smile and in Mr. Darcy's eyes, but the woman would never walk into the room again.

She had already removed Lady Anne's clothes from the wardrobe and was placing a few personal items into a box when she heard a creek from inside the mistress's dressing room.

“Master William!” She said with a shocked voice. “What do you do here?”

“I am sorry, Mrs. Reynolds. I thought I could enter the house without being detected through the garden passage.”

“And what would you being doing if you had be caught with the young miss in the room?” Mrs. Reynolds stood with her hands on her hips looking at him as if he were a small boy caught taking a jar of jam from the kitchens. She had suspected the young master's preference for Miss Bennet. She was sure of it when he demanded that she be given his mother's chambers and his appearance in the room now only confirmed it.

“I needed to enter the house undetected. I must leave the same way. It is still early and did not believe the young lady would need to retire for any reason…” he blushed as he spoke. He had hoped to see Elizabeth perhaps taking a nap. He wanted so to gaze upon her face one last time before he left for London. If his scheme went as planned, she would be on her way to Longbourn from Gracechurch Street by the time he circled back to London to escort Georgiana back to Derbyshire.

“Hmmm. Yes, well. Since you are here,” Mrs. Reynolds hid her smile. “I have made room for the young lady's belongings. I thought I should remove these things as well. ”

She showed him the personal items that once belonged to his mother and a slight look of sadness crossed his face. He lightly touched one item in the box and quickly grabbed it up and fisted it in his hand.

“I will keep this, but give everything else to Georgiana.”

“I will, sir.”

“Has everything been made ready?” Darcy asked.

“Yes. Though I believe that Miss Bingley may be difficult.”

“Bingley will need to deal with her,” Darcy moved toward the door that connected to his chambers. “Will you ready me some food that I may take with me? I may have to ride through the night.”

“Yes, sir.” Mrs. Reynolds made her way to the door that lead to the hall, but stopped and turned to the man she had known for the last twenty-four years. “She will do you well, Mr. Darcy. She can bring the light back to Pemberley.”

Darcy nodded and watched as his housekeeper left.

“She would have had she accepted me, but I am the last man in the world she could ever be prevailed upon to marry,” he said to himself and stepped into his rooms to ready himself for his journey.

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Caroline Bingley was not a woman who looked at her gender or status as an inconvenience. Had she been born to the lower class, she had no doubt that she would have found her way as a member of the ton. Luckily she had been spared that setback. She may have to endure the snubbed noses the women from old money liked to exhibit, but she was the daughter of a nouveau riche gentleman. The nouveaux riches were the new ton as far as Caroline and Louisa were concerned. They were to bring new blood and modern ways to the stale upper class.

Leaving Pemberley after only three days in residence was not to be borne! Not with Eliza Bennet staying behind! Charles may feel the Bennets well to do enough, but Caroline did not. Mr. Bennet may be a gentleman from a family of gentlemen, but Mrs. Bennet was from a lower class of tradesmen than Grandfather Bingley had been. The Bingleys were ascending to a higher status, the Bennets descending. To leave such a woman in the company of an impressionable girl as a companion showed Caroline that Darcy was indeed of need of the proper wife. She would be that wife. She had already decided that. It was now time to stake her claim and force Darcy's hand. He would propose to her upon his return. She would not allow anything else.

“How do you intend to remain here, Caroline?” Louisa asked after the two closed themselves within the guest room Miss Bingley occupied.

“Why, Louisa! Can you not tell? My courses have started and the pain is unbearable. I can hardly move let alone rise from my bed!” Caroline said with a smile as she paced about the room.

“I have always envied you that scheme. You have never had a touch of pain with your courses. For you, they are light and pass quickly,” Louisa sat in a chair near the window. “Mine are almost always so painful.”

“I know, sister. And I thank you for it. My female times have been of great use to me.”

“Surely Charles will only delay our leaving though. After no more than a week, your excuse will no longer be valid,” Louisa pointed out.

“That should be sufficient time to force Eliza Bennet back to Hertfordshire,” Caroline smiled and smugly evil curvature of her lips. “I shall send her post! Without an escort!”

The Bingley sisters giggled at the plan.

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No sooner had Wickham mounted one of Simon's horses and fled the smithy's stable, Simon was mounting another to help with an emergency that he was told only he could handle.

A carpenter by trade, Simon was not the only man to work with wood. He was not the best nor anywhere near the best craftsman. There were at least three other men who also claimed the trade in the town of Lambton and all had the true skill of the finest artisan. But with enough ale in his belly and Wickham puffing him up, he was ready to believe only he could handle the job.

A half hour past from both men's departure, Colin Odom made his way to the cellar of the boarding house. He held a key given to him by his cook who borrowed it from one of the boarding house maids. He could hear quiet whimpers as he placed the key in the lock of a door in the cellars far corner.

The cellar was dark except for a lone candle Odom lit in a wall sconce. As he opened the door, he heard a gasp and shuffling in a corner of the small room.

“Please. I mean you no harm. I have come to take you from here. Your sister awaits you.” Odom spoke in a quiet voice.

“Who... oo are y… you? W… where is w…Wickham?”

“I am Odom. Colin Odom. I run the inn,” he answered and looked into the corner trying to make out the figure as his eyes adjusted to the darkness. “Wickham has gone for now.”

“Ar… re you g… going t… to h… hurt m…me?”

“No. I only wish to help you. Your sister Elizabeth waits at Mr. Darcy's home, Pemberley, for you.”

“You lie! Lizzy hates Mr. Darcy!”

Odom was surprised by the girl's fierce declaration, but happy that it brought her up out of her haunch. He could now make out her form in the darkened room.

“I am not in a position to confirm the veracity of your exclamation, but Miss Bennet and the Gardiners had lodgings in my inn until Mr. Darcy offered his home. Perhaps it was decided that it would be better to be in Mr. Darcy's protection while in the neighborhood?” Odom offered.

Lydia took her eyes from the outline of the man in the doorways as she thought about his words. Mr. Darcy might be boring; he might have slighted Lizzy, but he was never anything but courteous, even when it was obvious that he would rather be elsewhere. He never tried to deceive anyone into liking him. In fact, he seemed more likely to avoid everyone like father…

Lydia's musings over the question stopped instantly when Odom grabbed onto her arms and quickly covered her mouth with his hand.

“I am sorry if I am frightening you, miss. But we must hurry. There is no time for questions. We must away before Simon or Wickham decide to alter their plans,” Odom whispered as he swept Lydia from the room and into the main cellar.

He moved quickly, blowing out the candle just before taking them both up the stairs and through a door held open by a young woman. “Hurry!” she insisted. “One of Pemberley's carriages await in the alley.”

Lydia did not have time to assimilate what was happening before she was pushed into the carriage; the door shut behind her. Two loud raps on the side of the conveyance announced the beginning of rapid movement. Two soft hands helped her to the seat.

“You must be Miss Lydia,” the woman said with a smile. “I am Mrs. Annesley, Miss Darcy's companion. I am to escort you to your sister, Miss Elizabeth.” The woman said.

“Elizabeth? Lizzy is really here?”

The woman smiled and held Lydia close as she started to cry.

Chapter 9

Darcy stood in his rooms and stared at the door that connected his chamber to that of the mistress's. He knew Elizabeth would be sleeping in those rooms, dressing in those rooms, bathing in those rooms. He would never be able to think of another woman occupying the space within those walls.

His hearth sped up as he thought about their ride from Lambton and the feel of her body next to his. Even now the remembrance was stirring his blood. He closed his eyes and could smell her hair, her skin and his body reacted almost painfully.

Darcy fisted his hands until his knuckles were white in an attempt to cool his body's passionate response. Turning to look out the window, he caught sight of the stand of trees that hid the duck pond from the house and sighed as he thought of the shock on Elizabeth's face after they dismounted his horse.

He thought himself a cad for adding to her distress. She had enough worries without him adding to her troubles. He wondered how he could be so ashamed and yet happy at his actions. But he knew now was not the time for rehashing his conduct, but to react to the plan in place and go forward. He only hoped that when all this was over and done with, Elizabeth would forgive him for his erratum.

Changing his clothes so that he looked as if he were to mix in with fishermen angling for pike, Darcy tucked a pistol into the waste band of his breeches. He put away anything that would call attention to his status. Looking like a gentleman would only attract the wrong kind of notice. He needed to integrate with the common man if he were to remain undetected as he shadowed Wickham.

Even with his deliberations, he only took ten minutes in his rooms. Time was of the essence and he would have plenty of time on his ride to speculate on his deportment. Now he must escape his own home unnoticed.

Darcy made his way out of the family wing, down the staircase and into his study. He retrieved ammunition for his weapon and sat down at his desk to write a quick missive to Georgiana. As he scribed words on parchment, Mrs. Reynolds lightly tapped on the door.

“Come,” Darcy spoke and looked up.

“Sir. Here are provisions for your travel,” the housekeeper stated. “There is some bread, dried meat, a bit of cheese and a couple apples for you.”

Darcy smiled at the intuition his housekeeper possessed. He would not want a basket of sandwiches with wine but a burlap bag with simple fare; the foodstuff of a commoner. Well, perhaps the meat was an extravagance, but he could not see his housekeeper making sure he was well fed.

“Thank you, Mrs. Reynolds. You will see that Georgiana receives this?” Darcy handed her the note he had just blotted and folded.

“Yes, sir,” she said with a smile and turned to leave the room. “Take care, master William.”

Darcy nodded at the retreating woman and gathered up the food. With a moment passing, he went to the door and slowly eased it open enough to check for others. He heard his sister's voice saying, “I have it in my rooms, Elizabeth. Let me retrieve it. I shall return directly,” and waited until he heard her footfalls at the top of the stairs before opening the door wide to make his exit.

He stepped into the hall and heard a gasp. Turning toward the sound he saw Elizabeth staring at him open mouthed with a flush rapidly rising over her neck and cheeks. Her hand quickly rose to her mouth and she dared a quick glimpse at the upper landing. Darcy's eyebrow rose in question and Elizabeth shook her head. He knew she was silently communicating that her gasp was not noticed and, other than herself, no one was within view.

A sad smile of apology adorned his face and with a slight bow and a nod, Fitzwilliam Darcy turned and retreated to the kitchens and out the servants' entrance.

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Elizabeth remained standing in the hall staring in the direction Darcy had taken. From the way he was dressed, she knew that he was to take his leave and follow Wickham. That meant that Lydia would soon arrive. She would be safe.

Perhaps Lydia's would rattle enough to keep Lizzy's mind off of the man who so confused her; the man who once loved her.

“Elizabeth?” Georgiana said softly. “Are you well? You look quite pale?

“Oh, I… I am well. The happenings of the day must be taking their toll, however .”

“With the Mr. Bingley and his sisters and Mr. Hurst leaving tomorrow, we will be dining early. Perhaps you would like to freshen up before dinner?”

Elizabeth smiled and the girl and took Miss Darcy's hand in her own. “Thank you, but you went all the way to retrieve that piece of music. The least I can do is …”

“Oh, Elizabeth. We can play the pianoforte anytime. But you need your rest! Let me ring for Mrs. Reynolds and we can show you to your room.” Without allowing an answer from her guest, Miss Darcy called for the housekeeper.

Mrs. Reynolds smiled at the two women standing at the bottom of the stairs and pulled a piece of paper from her apron pocket. “Miss Georgiana, the master asked that I give this to you,” and handed the missive to the girl. With a nod, the trusted servant relayed it should be read immediately and return from whence she came.

“Oh!” Georgiana cried as she unfolded the page and read the few neatly scribed lines. Upon completion of the note, she repeated her exclamation with a smile. “Elizabeth, I would be honored to escort you to your rooms.”

The two ascended the stairs and turned down a hallway that had not been part of the tour Mrs. Reynolds had performed for Elizabeth and the Gardiners just two days prior.

“I hope you will be pleased with your quarters, Elizabeth. It should be very quiet in this part of the house,” Georgiana said gaily then whispered, “Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst's rooms are in another wing. They will be no bother!”

Elizabeth tried to hold her smile so that she did not encourage such behavior, but failed and turned her head away so Miss Darcy could not see the amusement grace her features.

“Oh, I know it is very indelicate of me to say such a thing, but I do not relish their society. Mr. Bingley is my brother's friend and a respectable gentleman, but I cannot say the same of his sisters. I know my brother is not fond of Miss Bingley at all, but would he never refuse admittance to the sister of his friend especially when she is still in her brother's protection.”

Elizabeth stared at the girl who suddenly seemed to find her voice.

“I will not miss their association when they take their leave. My brother and cousin say I should not speak so. But my cousin did say if I must express such an opinion, I should do so within my own family.”

Elizabeth was about to remind Miss Darcy that she was not family and therefore should not be privy to the girl's opinion, when the young woman announced their arrival. “Here we are…” and open the door.

Lizzy's jaw dropped as she took in the room. A light green adorned the walls with lovely white and yellow drapes at the windows. Yellow pillows sat upon the bed that was covered with a white bedspread. The room was so bright and cheery… and huge! Longbourn's parlor and her father's modest library would easily fit within the walls.

“The dressing room is through there. There is also a bathing room with a tub as well.” Georgiana pointed through an open door.

“It is a very beautiful room,” Elizabeth said as she turned back toward the door where they had entered and noticed that either side of the entrance was adorned with a collection of vases of various sizes and shapes and colors.

“Those were gifts from Lady Catherine to my mother. From the story my brother told me, my father gifted a small, rather plain vase with a perfect rose to my mother on the first anniversary of their marriage. The flower had long faded away by the time my mother's sister saw vessel in which my father presented it. She proclaimed the vase to be loathsome and spent years trying to outdo my father's gift.”

“Why would Lady Catherine wish to surpass the sentiment of a gift from husband to wife?”

“I do not know. I always thought it a silly notion myself. Apparently, she was never able to eclipse it in my mother's eyes. She placed all of Lady Catherine's gifts there and kept my father's gift on her writing table.” Georgiana walked over to a writing desk that sat near the bed and fireplace. “This is the vase my father gave my mother.”

Elizabeth turned and looked at the simple white container with barely visible roses painted in a faint pinkish color.

“As you can see, it is not very ornate, but I understand it was my mother's favorite.”

Elizabeth contemplated Lady Catherine's motives for wanting to overcome such a sentiment as Georgiana took her leave. It was not until the girl was gone that Lizzy wondered why she should share a room with such possessions.

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Lydia entered the house from the servants' entrance and was immediately ushered up stairs and into a room that Lydia Bennet would never have guessed to be so grand. It was on a floor one level higher from the Bingley's and Hurst's and what looked to have been rooms for children. Lydia couldn't help but be overwhelmed with the size and beauty of the room

Over the course of two hours, a maid aided her with a bath and helped her dress in a gown borrowed from Miss Darcy. Finally, after having her hair styled simply, Lydia was escorted to a small parlor where she heard two soft feminine voices. When Lydia entered, the two women stood and, upon recognizing her sister, lost her awed countenance to tears as she raced to her sister's embrace.

“Oh, Lizzy! I did not dare believe that you should truly be here. But I cannot be happier that you are!”

Miss Darcy smiled at the sisters and quietly spoke, “I shall leave you alone. Dinner will not be served for another three quarters of an hour. Call a footman if you should require something.”

“Thank you,” Elizabeth replied as she held her sobbing sister.

“I am so sorry, Lizzy. I thought it would be such fun. But I was wrong. He… he… h-h-hurt me, Lizzy,” Lydia spoke through sobs as Elizabeth turned to sit them both down.

“Oh, Lydia. You are safe now.”

“No! Lizzy, you do not understand. He will hurt me… and you. He wishes to hurt you, Lizzy!”

“He will not! We are both safe here.”

“He shall come… He…”

Elizabeth placed her hand on her younger sister's cheek and with her lips curved in a reassuring smile said, “No. He will not come. And even if he should, you will not be here. Mr. Bingley along with Mr. Darcy's footmen, will escort you back to Longbourn. No one shall know that you left with Wickham.”

“But Mrs. F-f-f-forrester knows… I wrote her a n-n-note…”

“It has been seen to. She shall not speak,” Elizabeth told her and hoped it were true.

“Are you to come with us, Lizzy? With Mr. Bingley and the footmen?”

“No, Lydia. I am supposed to be traveling with Uncle and Aunt Gardiner. It shall seem odd if I return with Mr. Bingley and his sisters. But Mr. Bingley is to say that he traveled through Brighton and offered to bring you to Longbourn as your were ill from missing home.”

“Jane will like to see Mr. Bingley again, I should think. But I am frightened, Lizzy. I do not want to go alone!” Lydia's tears continued as she spoke.

“You won't be alone, Lydia.” Elizabeth wiped the tears from the younger Bennet's eyes. “And you should be home soon enough.”

“I… I… I am sorry, Elizabeth,” Lydia gripped her sisters hand tightly. “I… I… th-thought…”

“Quiet now! You are safe. Let us dry our eyes and smile. We shall soon sit down to dinner,” Elizabeth pushed a bit of hair out of Lydia's face.

“W-w-will M-M-Mr. Darcy be…”

“No. He has gone to find Mr. Wickham,” Elizabeth said and then realized the fear in her sister's eyes. “He will make sure that Wickham never bothers us again.”

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Darcy was able to pick up Wickham's trail quickly and followed him until he stopped at nightfall. He was not surprised when Wickham avoided the pub. Darcy knew his former playmate needed to keep a clear head. He was after the prize. Just as he had done when they were children.

“I should have never danced with Elizabeth at Bingley's ball. I know Colonel Forrester denied Wickham the pleasure of attending, but that did not keep him from discovering I should dance but once and with whom.” Darcy whispered to his mount.

The horse twitched its ears as if understanding.

“How could I not realize that he would still try best me even now? At Cambridge, if I were to even tip my hat at a young lady, he would find his way to seducing her and inform me she was no good to me; he had already taken her.

Again the horse twitched its ears then snorted.

“I will not allow it to happen to Elizabeth! If he knew of the kiss I gave her by the duck pond….”

The horse turned and looked Darcy in the eye.

“Oh, Mrs. Reynolds has given me that look, you do not need to!” He patted the horse's flank and fed him some apple before bedding down with horse in the stable for the night.

Chapter 10

Lydia, escorted by Elizabeth and Georgiana, entered the dining room where the Bingley party had arrived earlier. Mr. Bingley stood quickly and welcomed the ladies.

“Good evening, Miss Darcy, Miss Bennet. Miss Lydia, it is a pleasure to see you again. How do you do?”

Lydia, without confidence, could not answer, but nodded and attempted a smile before a footman sat her at the table.

Louisa shot a shocked look at Lydia, her brother, Miss Darcy, then Elizabeth. In an attempt to recover her countenance, she promptly made apologies for her sister's absence.

“I am sorry, Miss Darcy, but my sister is feeling indisposed and takes her meal above stairs.”

“Oh?” Georgiana looked at Mrs. Hurst. “I hope nothing serious ails her?”

“It had best not be! We leave on the morrow,” Bingley announced.

Ignoring her brother, Louisa addressed her young hostess. “It is nothing that a woman does not experience at intervals. She shall be fine in a few days.” Louisa looked at her husband who seemed oblivious to the conversation and then to her brother. “Surely we can forestall our departure until Caroline is feeling better, Charles?”

Charles Bingley could not smile, but his sisters were most definitely trying his patience. He offered a grin to Miss Darcy and Lydia then winked at Elizabeth before he spoke again to his sister.

“She will either be ready to travel on the morrow, Louisa, or she will have to remain here and travel with Miss Darcy and Miss Bennet in another fortnight.”

“You would not leave her here alone?” Louisa Hurst asked with a shocked voice just before she kicked her husband under the table for his snort regarding the subject.

“She would hardly be alone, Louisa. Miss Darcy and Miss Bennet are delightful company, do you not agree, sister?”

“Well, of course, but…”

“Darcy does not anticipate returning for at least four weeks or more and I will not make Miss Lydia wait to journey home,” Bingley turned to the youngest at the table. “I do not relish feeling poorly for being away. I suffered greatly while away at school. Your friends were kind to bring you from Nottingham and I am happy to be of service and return you home.”

Lydia was somewhat shocked at Mr. Bingley's words. Did he really believe that she traveled to Nottingham with friends only to become homesick and want to travel south and home?

“I thought you were in Brighton, Miss Lydia?” Louisa asked.

“She was, Mrs. Hurst,” Georgiana replied for her. “Her friends traveled north to visit acquaintances and Lydia traveled with them.”

Elizabeth slipped her hand into Lydia's under the table as Georgiana did the same to her other. Lydia clutched them both hard as she fought to gain control of her emotions. It was then she realized that with the exception of Mr. and Mrs. Hurst, everyone at the table knew what happened to her and still they protected her. Even Mr. Bingley!

“I remember my first real travels away from family, I so enjoyed it until I realized just how far I truly was from my brother. I sent an urgent express and he came immediately to bring me home. He is good about taking care of those he cares about.”

“It would be nice to have such a brother,” Lydia said softly.

Miss Darcy leaned close to her newest guest and whispered so only she could hear, “Make no mistake, Lydia. You have two!”

Lydia glanced at Mr. Bingley and knew he would soon ask Jane to be his wife. But two brothers? Surely Miss Darcy did not mean Mr. Hurst. Looking back at the girl who seemed so much older but was just a mere eleven months her senior, Lydia noticed Georgiana glance at Elizabeth then smiled knowingly. Mr. Darcy? And Elizabeth? If anything could take her mind off of her recent horrible recent experience, an attraction between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy surely should.

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Darcy was happy he opted to keep to the stables. His dress would cause no suspicion for him to ask the innkeeper for a bed of straw. He could have just as easily asked for a shared room, knowing that Wickham would see himself too lofting for such accommodations. He would insist on a private room though his finances would only allow one large enough to keep a small bed. But he knew that no matter the type of room Wickham opted for, he would not keep to it long; a few hours at most. It would do to be in London long before the Gardiner's carriage arrived if he were to have any hope of preparing a plan to separate Elizabeth Bennet from her relatives.

Darcy awoke to the sound of Wickham demanding his mount and scrambled up from his corner in the stall next to his own horse. He shook and began to fold the blanket that covered his mattress of dried stems and quickly packed up what little he had and saddled his horse.

Winking at the beast, Darcy quietly slid the bit into the horse's mouth and then smiled when the horse pushed its nose into his chest. He began to scratch the horse's forehead ran his fingers down the animals jowls and under his chin. Sometimes Darcy believed the animal was far more demanding than a female, but could not help but give in to the simple wants and enjoyments of his trusted animal.

“Knightly, you are too much trouble,” Darcy teased and fed the animal a piece of apple.

The horse looked at his owner and snorted and stamped a front hoof.

“Yes, yes, I know. You are well worth it!” Darcy smiled and offered the last of the fruit to the steed as he thought maybe the horse enjoyed the game of shadow they were forced to utilize. If Darcy did not sense Wickham was looking back or into the trees, the horse did and stilled. It had happened at least twice the day before and was sure to happen again. As long as Wickham did not discover he was being followed, this should be handled easily.

Once they reached London and Darcy knew where Wickham planned his keep, he could meet his cousin and they could gather the notes they both held. It would be effortless to put Wickham in debtor's prison or ship him off to another part of the world. A ship to India or the Americas would please Darcy more. The chances of Wickham making it to his destination and ever returning held fewer odds than the possibility of escaping a debtor's lockup.

After about an hour, it was easy to see that Wickham planned to make the city before nightfall. That would give him a full day to anticipate the arrival of the Gardiner's carriage. He knew that Wickham would never try to act the highwayman and disturb the party's travel. It would be far easier to abscond with Elizabeth and escape to a secluded mews once everyone was in town.

Darcy planned for one of his unmarked carriages to wait at the servant's entrance of the Gardiner's Gracechurch Street home. Hannah would enter the house, walk through and out the back and into the carriage. She would then go directly to Darcy house where she would stay but a few days before returning to Derbyshire.

Done replaying the plans in his head, Darcy began to give thought to his actions of the day prior. He wondered if Elizabeth hated him more for his presumptuousness. Kissing her, especially after learning of her sister's unexpected departure from Brighton and arrival in Lambton, was callous. Would he ever be the man she could respect and did she think that he thought he could have his way with her because of her sister's actions? Did she think he believed her a fallen woman?

He battled with himself for a good half hour before he let himself remember the feel of her body so close to his as they rode from the village to Pemberley. He could still remember the warmth of her legs draped across his and the fresh smell of her hair. He could still feel the touch of her hands as she clutched his arms and the feel of her as she pressed into his body as the horse galloped across the meadow. Even now he could feel his desire stirring. The ride had become gloriously uncomfortable and he never attempted to adjust his seat. There had been no reason to make Elizabeth even more uncomfortable by having her discover his state.

When they arrived at the pond, he held her on the horse as he dismounted. He allowed a moment for his body to calm and her a moment to catch her breath before lifting her down. The feel of her trim waist and her hands on his upper arms as she looked into his eyes disassembled him. All he could think of was how well she looked inside his home and how wonderful it would be if she were its mistress. And then his body reacted all over again. He held onto her and slowly brought her down from the horse as he stood close to the animal. With him standing so close, it was impossible for Elizabeth not to slide down his chest. When her body came into contact with his hardness, he lost all thought and pressed her to him and took her mouth with his.

He was amazed that she did not fight him. She even opened herself to him. He tasted her and felt her tongue with his. It was glorious until Knightly reminded the couple he was also present. Darcy separated from her and looked about to hide his embarrassment. A moment later he managed to say, “Georgiana's flowers,” as his cocked his head in the direction of the blooms that his sister loved.

The couple walked to the house without any further conversation.

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The night had been difficult. Elizabeth stayed with Lydia so the girl might find sleep. Though both sisters managed to find slumber, it did not come until almost the light of day. They were roused by eight and broke their fast at nine. Charles Bingley informed Elizabeth and Lydia that he would leave by ten. It would be best if they wished to arrive in Hertfordshire before the end of the week and avoid traveling after dusk.

Elizabeth understood Mr. Bingley's desire to leave. He was anxious to see Jane and it would be good for Lydia to be home as soon as possible. She was even relieved to find that Miss Bingley would be staying behind and traveling along with her and Miss Darcy to London. Miss Caroline Bingley was spiteful and cruel and Elizabeth would prefer to deal with her than have Lydia exposed to the woman. Mrs. Hurst seemed to have moments of compassion and perhaps without the company of her younger sister, she would be an acceptable traveling companion for the youngest Bennet.

As an added comfort, Mr. Darcy arranged with his housekeeper to have Mrs. Ford, his sister's former tutor and now one of Pemberley's cooks, accompany the women in the carriage. It would seem even Mr. Darcy would not allow the treachery of the Bingley sisters harm Miss Lydia Bennet. It was one of the many thoughtful and insightful things that made Lizzy fall more in love with the Master of Pemberley.

After tearful farewells, Lydia boarded the carriage and Elizabeth kept her sights on the conveyance as it turned into a speck in the distance. Lizzy stood at the front of the house for almost an hour before Georgiana quietly persuaded her to retreat into the house and the music room. Miss Darcy kept her guest occupied with songs and books until it was time to retire for the night. Both women were relieved that Miss Bingley had the conscience to keep the appearance of her feigned illness and keep to her room.

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Darcy was exhausted. He followed Wickham from before dawn and all day until after sun set. Managing to keep from detection, he trailed Wickham to his lodgings. Not surprisingly, Mrs. Younge allowed him to stay in her boarding house. Had Lydia traveled with the blackguard, Darcy was sure the woman would have refused him. No doubt the woman was jealous of those who would steal the contemptible cur from her bed.

Darcy arrived at his townhouse and entered through the back. After informing his staff he was not at home to visitors, he made his way to his chambers to freshen up before he traveled to Gracechurch Street to deliver the letter he carried from Mr. Gardiner to Mr. Bennet.

As he changed into attire more suitable to calling on an acquaintance, Darcy wondered if he should confess his feelings for the man's daughter. “No. It would not do. She does not care for me and it would not be proper given the circumstances.” He shook his head at the man that appeared from the mirror.

It would prove to be difficult enough to explain why he did not warn the man to keep his daughters away from the devil Wickham. “I will offer my explanation, but it shall not be good enough. I should have done more than just speak to Forrester. Even if they did not trust my word, I would have at least introduced the subject.”

Darcy felt whatever Mr. Bennet had to say to him, it could not change the fact that he failed the people of Hertfordshire, the Bennet's and, most importantly, Elizabeth. It could not be disparaging enough.

Allowing Knightly to rest, he had one of his unmarked carriages readied with another horse and set off for Gracechurch Street. The darkness of the night should be enough to keep others from recognizing his equipage , but he felt it best to be safe.

Wickham would rest and wake early to case the area. This would give Darcy time to confer with Mr. Bennet as the next day would be spent with Fitzwilliam readying for Wickham's accompaniment into custody for debts.

The noises of London ranged from gleeful laughter to sounds of breaking glass, but the stillness of Gracechurch Street seemed to match the calm and welcoming countenances Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner portrayed. It was with some shock when the coach lurched to the side and the sound of a scream pierced Darcy's consciousness. The sound of fast footfalls speeding past the carriage caused him to open the door just in time to see George Wickham running around the corner.

Darcy turned toward the direction from which the devil fled and saw Mr. Bennet slumped to his knees, his hands clenched to his abdomen and blood staining his hands.

Chapter 11

Darcy wanted to chase the villain down and run him threw but knew that Mr. Bennet's need of assistance was far greater at the moment. He instead motioned for one of his men to follow on foot.

“Mr. Bennet! Allow me to help you to my carriage. It is not safe for you to remain. He may come back.”

“Mr. Darcy,” Mr. Bennet spoke with great effort. “W…Welcome to Gracechurch Street. I say the neighborhood has declined since… since my… my last vis… visit.”

“Please sir. Do not speak. Conserve your strength.”

“It w-w-was W…Wickham… he… did… th…this.”

“I saw him, sir. Please, do not speak.” Darcy implored as he all but carried the man to his carriage. After settling him on the carriage seat and covering him with a traveling rug, Darcy closed the door to the carriage and pounded on the roof.

John the Coachman immediately engaged the team and moved them quickly toward Bond Street. He knew better than to head directly for home. It had been a long standing order that if any Darcy carriage encountered trouble it was not to head directly home. John the Coachman knew he could still make good time returning to Darcy House with this route and keep an eye out for a tail.

Mr. Bennet was drifting in and out of consciousness and Darcy was beginning to worry over the amount of blood evident at the sight of his wounds. Lifting the traveling rug and moving Mr. Bennet's coat out of the way, he could see at least two stab wounds. He pulled his handkerchiefs from his pocket and lightly pressed them to the wounds as tried to keep the older man from bouncing off his makeshift bed on the coach seat. Keeping his hand on Mr. Bennet, Darcy leaned as far as he could to the coach window and looked out. Noticing where they were, he shouted, “Jack! Have the footman jump and run for the doctor!” He planned to say more to his driver but was stopped when he felt a hand on his arm.

“H... he has m-m-my d-d-daughter!” Mr. Bennet's grip on his arm was strong for a man in such a condition Darcy noted mentally.

“I know, sir. Miss Lydia should be safe now and on her way home to Longbourn. Do not worry. All will be well.”

“H-h-how…”

Darcy leaned down to the man and held onto the hand that gripped him so tightly. “It is not important now. I shall tell you after the doctor sees to you.” Darcy's voice took on a soft and caring tone as he remembered this was Elizabeth's beloved father. “All will be well. I shall see to it. You have my word, sir.”

Mr. Bennet calmed and slipped into an unconscious state.

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The Bingley carriage stopped at an inn for the night and after spending the day traveling inside with the younger girl, Mrs. Hurst arranged with her brother for the two women to share a room. She knew it would be wrong for the young girl to be alone during the night.

Louisa understood Lydia's sudden tears and desire to hide. She understood the desire not to have a man touch her, not even to hand her into the carriage. Louisa Hurst recognized all the characteristics of woman who had suffered at a man's hand.

She knew it well. She had once felt much as Lydia and thank the heavens that Caroline schemed to stay at Pemberley. She was not sure she would be able to endure her younger sister's ridicule of the girl. It would be as if she were being ridiculed.

Neither Caroline nor Charles Bingley knew of their sister's suffering; they never would know how she had suffered at the hand of her father's associate. Both Charles and Caroline were still away at school when their father died. Their mother had passed but a few years earlier and Louisa had taken over the duties as mistress of the house.

Upon the death of the senior Mr. Bingley, Mr. Wallace came to condole with the twenty-two year old Miss Louisa Bingley. He left a few hours later with her innocence robbed from her.

She never revealed her secret. And on her wedding night, Reginald Hurst was too full of drink to realize that she was not an innocent maiden. His continued drunken stupors kept him from noticing that she did not mind that he rarely visited her bed. Louisa was a lucky woman. She had made the perfect match.

Now she could be the perfect person to help a young girl come to terms with such an experience.

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Lizzy sat on the bed in her room and gazed about. She had been wondering how her sister was fairing when she took notice the room was larger than the room Lydia had the previous night. Both were beautifully outfitted with fine furnishings, this room seemed of even finer elegance however.

Well, except for some of the vases that adorned the wall near the door to the hall. They were ornate, but not necessarily elegant. They reminded her of Lady Catherine and Rosings Park. All of the vases looked as if they cost a great deal but they were opulent and gaudy. She smiled as she wondered if any had excessive windows or closets with shelves.

Elizabeth turned and looked at the simple vase on the writing table.

”She placed all of Lady Catherine's gifts there and kept my father's gift on her writing table.”

Elizabeth's eyes grew wide and her hand moved quickly to her mouth as she remembered Georgiana's words.

“Oh! This is the mistress's chamber!” She said aloud with her hand still covering her mouth and quickly looked around the room as if she were trespassing.

The urge to validate her sudden insight sprang her from the bed and she ran to the door next to the one leading to the dressing room and turned the handle.

Light streamed in from her room to the darkened chamber. She could tell the room had been closed up for sometime. Sheets covered all the furniture except for two small trucks. Both had been painted bright colors, but time and use had faded each, one green and one yellow.

Picking up a candle from the side table, Elizabeth ventured into the room and over to the small trunks. She knelt in front of the yellow once first and opened it… a baby girl's playthings. “Georgiana,” slipped from her lips in a whisper. With a wink for the doll that looked up at her, Elizabeth closed the lid and moved closer to the green one.

Lizzy stroked the top of the chest with her hand and reverently lifted the lid. She could not keep the smile from her face as she gazed at the contents and imagined a grown Fitzwilliam Darcy playing with the items.

A quiet peel of laughter escaped until she saw a small-carved horse. She lifted the wooden animal from its place and examined it. It looked to have been a favorite. Chipped paint and stains from wild runs in the garden. It held an amazing resemblance to the horse she rode with Mr. Darcy just the day before. It was at that moment she remembered his kiss and wondered what their son would look like.

Suddenly ashamed of her thoughts, she let the lid of the trunk slam shut. She picked up the candle and fled the room, closing the door. She returned to the bed and sat. Lizzy looked at her hands and realized she was still holding the toy animal.

“Well, little horse, I hope you will not mind keeping me company. I can see you are well traveled, perhaps you have a story or two for me.” Elizabeth spoke to the toy as she rose and extinguished the candles in the room.

She climbed under the covers of the bed and laid the small horse on the pillow next to hers.

“I would not mind if you could see your way to tell me about your master. He is much taller from when you knew him. And he rides a horse much taller than you, but you will be pleased to know that the beast bares you a very strong resemblance. I believe Mr. Darcy must have been quite fond of you.”

Elizabeth fell asleep clutching the small horse in her hand.

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The doctor arrived just minutes after Darcy and the butler settled Mr. Bennet into the master's chambers and Darcy remained in the room while the doctor made his examination.

“Will he survive?” Darcy asked the man he trusted with his and his sister's health.

“He has a good chance. His injuries are severe. He cannot be moved. You did well protecting his wounds on the journey here, but I do not wish to take further risk.”

Darcy handed the doctor a towel to dry his hands after he washed Mr. Bennet's blood from them.

“He has lost a good deal of blood and an infection may settle in, but I think he can heal up well enough. But it will take time,” the doctor informed Darcy.

“He is welcome to stay here until he is well enough to return home. I suspect he will enjoy the quiet.” Darcy remembered Mr. Gardiner mentioning that his brother Bennet enjoyed “hiding” in his library.

“Quiet is what he needs,” the doctor measured out some powder and placed into a small bottle. “Give this to him if he becomes restless. I suggest talking to him as well. I do not believe he will comprehend much, but a familiar and soothing voice may keep him calm.”

Darcy nodded and walked the doctor down the stairs.

“I shall return in the morning. If you need me before hand, send one of your men.”

“Yes. I will see you in the morning,” Darcy said as he watched the physician leave. He quickly strode to his study and composed a short note. After blotting and sealing the missive he handed it to his butler with the instructions to have it delivered to his cousin who was in residence at the Viscount's townhouse across the park. Then he returned to the man who lay in his bed, the man who was the father of the woman he loved.

Darcy watched the man who seemed to be asleep and wondered what mysteries he could reveal that would allow him insight into the woman he loved.

It seemed perfectly natural to sit and speak to the man of a subject they had in common. It did not matter that Mr. Bennet could not hear him. In fact, he was glad of it as he began to confess the feelings that he dared not speak to anyone who could hear. It felt good to unburden his heart.

He told the sleeping man all. He started with the moment he realized she had the finest eyes he had ever seen. He spoke of how he enjoyed verbally sparing with this man's intelligent daughter. He even confessed how he could not concentrate on the book he was reading while the two were both inhabitants of Bingley's library.

An hour passed and then another as Darcy continued to relate his struggles with his feelings for Elizabeth Bennet. He paced the room and fiddled with items that he had left behind just a week before and still he continued to speak. He could not stop. He was cleansing his soul. He knew he would not find any absolution, but just the opportunity voice his internal struggles alleviated some of the pain that resided in his heart.

He stared at his reflection in the window has he described his mishandled proposal and Elizabeth's reaction and refusal. He was surprised to find his throat tightening and his voice hitching as he relived the heartbreak. He spoke of the letter and related all of its contents even adding an apology for not speaking to him and all of Hertfordshire of Wickham's character.

Darcy stood taller when he apprised the slumbering man of his decision to better himself because of Elizabeth's words and his surprise at seeing Elizabeth and the Gardiner's at Pemberley. He spoke of introducing his sister to Elizabeth and Georgiana's continuous joy at meeting her.

He spoke of the two mornings before and how he dared to plan to ask Elizabeth if he might ask her permission, and subsequently Mr. Bennet's, to court her. Even if she would refuse another offer of marriage, he hoped that she would at least consent to a friendship with his sister.

Darcy described how he found Elizabeth in tears over the contents of Jane's letters. He spoke of his decision to take matters into his own hands regarding Wickham when he discovered that Wickham was in Lambton… in the Inn's pub. He described how he removed Elizabeth from the Inn and why and his arrangement to have the Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner come to his home upon their return.

He stared at the ceiling as spoke of the walk and ride back to Pemberley and their stop at the duck pond.

Perhaps he should not have gone into detail about his emotional and physical reactions to the man's daughter, but he could not help himself. He felt almost as if he were speaking to his own father. After all these rooms had once belonged to the senior Darcy. If he kept from looking at the man lying on the bed and only listened for his breathing, he had no trouble picturing his father.

He sat in the chair that he had often taken when confabbing with his father in these very rooms and described in detail every nuance of the kiss he shared with Elizabeth. His voice stilled as he relived the feeling of her soft lips on his. He drifted off into a memory as he remembered the feel of her body under his hands. Darcy took a deep breath and let it out in a soft sigh as he took his eyes from the ceiling and turned them to the man who suffered at Wickham's hand.

Darcy's eyes widened as he realized that Mr. Bennet was no longer asleep. He felt his heart stop and the blood run from his face. Had he not been sitting, Darcy was sure he would have fallen from his feet.

“After what you have so explicitly described to me, Mr. Darcy, I believe I will have to demand that you marry my daughter,” Mr. Bennet said in a very quiet but nonetheless firm voice.

Chapter 12

Wickham ran not sure where he was going. He only knew he had to get away from Gracechurch Street. Whoever was in the coach was sure to find Mr. Bennet considering they almost ran him down and the coachman had to pull to a stop. And if the old man died, there were bound to be searching for him looking to lynch him without ceremony.

Wickham turned into a mews and ducked down behind s set of stairs. He wasn't sure, but thought someone was set afoot to follow him. He saw a man wearing livery approach the mews but he did not turn in to investigate. It was too dark to make out much of the man's uniform; it could have been blue, black or even green. It did not matter. The occupant of the coach was most likely a lady who lived on an elite street and took her husband's unmarked carriage in anticipation of a rendezvous with her tradesman lover and the man wearing livery just someone to keep the lady's secret.

But to be on the safe side, Wickham decided to wait at least a quarter hour before making his way back to Rebecca Younge's boarding house.

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The Bingley party settled into the inn where the gentlemen took to the pub, the women sat in their shared room.

“You did not have to stay with me, Mrs. Hurst. I promise not to run off,” Lydia said in what she hoped was a light tone.

“I did not think you would,” Louisa replied. “I was under the presumption that you may not wish to be alone tonight.”

“Oh?”

“Lydia, I understand more than you would believe.”

“W…what did Elizabeth tell you?”

“You sister did not speak to me of you. It is your actions that give you away.”

Lydia look horrified and wondered just how many people in the inn “knew” what had happened to her. What would happen when she arrived home? Would her mother, too, know?

“Do not look so frightened. It is not such an uncommon happening.”

“I… I… do not believe you.”

“It has happen to me,” Louisa confided as she ventured closer to the younger woman.

“Mr. H... Hurst?” Lydia asked with a shaking voice. Would Mr. Hurst try with her too?

“No. No! My husband is… well, when his is not into his cups, he is a very gentle man. When he drinks, he simply not interested.” Louisa spoke honestly and as she did, she realized that her situation was much better than she ever thought. Her husband was gentle with her; reverent with his actions as if he were trying to make up for all she had suffered. She was the one to push him away.

She wondered just how much her husband suspected. He knew Mr. Wallace and it was not long after the incident that the young Mr. Hurst came to call. When her mourning was over, he had proposed marriage. It was as if lighting had struck at her feet burning the question into the ground before her. What did her husband really know?

“Then… how?”

“It was before my marriage. A man, a friend of my father's, came to offer his condolences for my father's death. I was the only one at home and he…”

“Is it always like that? So painful?”

“Oh, no!” Louisa caught herself. There had been times with her husband that she had felt an uncontrollable pleasure shoot through her leaving her stunned. It had happened only a few times, but she remembered them well. Their trip to the sea, just the two of them, when Caroline was gone to visit a friend from school. And another time when Caroline was away…

“In the right situation it is very wonderful,” Louisa said with a smile as she realized that her wonderful times were when her sister was not in residence. “When you marry, you will see.”

“Who will marry me now?” Lydia asked realizing that she was no longer desirable as a wife.

“Oh, now that is less of a problem than you think. Should I understand that you did not come to Derbyshire because of a whim of your friends?”

Lydia nodded and explained that she thought they were to go to Gretna Green to be married when Wickham violently took the only valuable thing she had to offer a husband.

“So Mr. Darcy has planned all this to save your virtue?”

Lydia again nodded an affirmative answer.

“Why would he do this, do you think?” Louisa asked all but knowing, but thought it wise to confirm her belief.

It was the first time Lydia offered a smile since leaving Pemberley. “Because he is in love with Lizzy.”

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Elizabeth awoke still clutching the small wooden toy she had pilfered from the green chest in the nursery. She smiled at the small animal and whispered, “Good morning, little horse. I think you would like a run in the garden. You have been cooped up for a long time. Perhaps I can smuggle you out in my pocket. Would you like that?”

The small animal never answered for their conversation was interrupted by a soft knock by the maid.

“Good morning, miss. It looks to be a fine day,” the young maid offered with cheer. “Not a cloud in the sky.”

“Sounds lovely,” Elizabeth answered as she secreted the small horse into the sleeve of her nightdress.

“The master says that you enjoy walking, miss. If you please, there are many paths to walk here.”

“The master says, does he?”

“Oh! Well, he did not tell me this,” the young woman blushed. She did not want Elizabeth to think badly of her or the master. “I heard him say this to Mrs. Reynolds. He also said to make sure that you have everything you wish.”

Elizabeth did not know what to say or do. As a guest, it was not proper for discuss the master of the house with his servants. She wanted to ask many questions, but it would not do. She would be leaving here soon, never to return. He was doing all he could to save her family and she was grateful for his assistance, but even if he were to protect them from others ever finding out, he would know. He would know and never want her. He only did all this for his friend. She realized that now. He would save the Bennet family so that Charles Bingley could marry Jane.

Fitzwilliam Darcy was a true friend and an honorable man.

And she could never expect his love. She had thrown that away. She could not bear him thinking ill of her, especially now that she knew she loved him. No wonder his words had hurt her so at the assembly… somehow her heart knew that he was the one she would grow to love.

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Wickham walked back to the bowels of London planning along the way. He had not spoken to Rebecca about where he was going, so Mr. Bennet surprising him by being on Gracechurch Street would not need to be mentioned. He had been smart enough to wash his hands and knife of the man's blood long before starting his walk back. He would stop and have a quick pint in a pub along the way so that she could smell the liquor. She would never know that he had been prying open one the Gardiner's windows with his knife when Mr. Bennet spotted him.

It would be safer. She could not throw him out or tell of what she did not know. No one would think to look for him there. Well, maybe Darcy would, but he would not lower himself to help these people. They did not live on his lands or have relations who were in his employ. He may have an awareness for Miss Elizabeth Bennet, but he would never act on it. He would not want to act on it after he had taken her anyway.

Wickham laughed at the thought of Darcy discovering that he had won over the rich man's fantasy. Oh, and George Wickham knew that Elizabeth Bennet was Darcy's fantasy. Just learning that the man ventured to dance one set and chose the lovely Miss Elizabeth as his partner told him that much. Seeing Darcy stare at the woman also confirmed this. He knew his old friend well. There was no doubt of it.

But even Darcy would not allow fantasies to enter his mind in the darkest of nights… the woman's younger sister was soiled and as such sullied the reputations of her sisters, especially the one that excited Darcy.

Ever since Darcy discovered his plot to spirit Georgiana away, Wickham had wanted to hurt his former playmate in a way that not even money could make up for. And thanks to Lydia Bennet, Wickham found the answer. It may take longer to coerce Elizabeth Bennet into his bed… but perhaps not. If her father survived, she would wish to nurse him to health.

Wickham smiled as he revised his plan and, when he finally arrived at Mrs. Younge's boarding house, celebrated by practicing his love making with the mistress of the establishment.

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It was too much to hope that Caroline Bingley would remain in her rooms for another day, but Georgiana did hope. When she entered the breakfast room and saw the woman all ready seated, Miss Darcy had to make an effort to keep a smile on her face.

“Good morning, Miss Bingley. I hope you do better this day.”

“Oh! Dear Georgiana. You are too kind. I feel much better,” Miss Bingley said with a brightness that exposed her perfidious intentions.

Georgiana made her way to the table and was saved from more false conversation when Elizabeth entered.

“Elizabeth!” Georgiana jumped up from her chair. “Do you wish to take a walk after breakfast as we talked of yesterday?” Georgiana looked at her with hopeful eyes.

“Of course, Georgiana. Will you join us, Miss Bingley,” Elizabeth asked genuinely. Georgiana's smile faltered. “We plan on walking to the pond and picking lilies. There may be mud.”

Caroline was not happy to allow Georgiana to keep company with the country chit, but perhaps it would be best if she did. Mr. Darcy would never allow his sister to be six inches in mud. Since she had no authority, as of yet, Caroline thought it might do to allow the girl to follow Miss Eliza into the mud. She could explain to the girl how wrong it was when she returned to the house.

Besides, it gave her the chance to explore the house on her own. She had seen a number of the downstairs rooms and a few of the rooms in the guest wing, but she would like to explore the family wing and some of the upper floors where most guests were never taken. It would be good to know the home before she moved in permanently. Of course, they would spend most of their time in London, but this would be a wonderful place for summer parties.

“I think I shall stay in. Though I feel much better today, I think too strenuous a day would take its toll and should not like to be a burdon.” Miss Bingley smiled at the two women. “ I should be happy to keep myself occupied. The two of you may go and enjoy the mud.”

Georgiana almost choked on her toast. Did Miss Bingley, a guest, just give her permission for her to walk about the grounds of her own home? The girl stared at the woman before she glanced at Elizabeth who was frozen with her teacup halfway to her lips.

It took but a second for Lizzy to regain her momentum and take a sip of her tea. Her thoughts were quick as she let the warm liquid travel across her lips and tongue before she swallowed. Does she believe that Georgiana is a simpleton and does not understand her insult? Elizabeth asked herself before placing the cup back on its saucer.

“It is a shame that you did not feel well enough to travel, Miss Bingley. You are now stuck with two women who find enjoyment in simple delights. I would have thought you would have wished to go along with your brother and the Hursts. They travel to Hertfordshire, which is just a half day's travel to London,” Elizabeth said but continued in her thoughts and so much closer to the object of your interest. Though you are too vain to see that Mr. Darcy only shows you kindness because he values Mr. Bingley's friendship.

“We cannot choose when we feel ill, Miss Eliza Bennet.”

“True. But how ill will you be after spending three days in a carriage with me, Miss Bingley?” Elizabeth snapped making Caroline gasp. “If you will excuse me, Georgiana. I think I should venture out of doors now. I'm afraid I am out sorts and it has caused me to be rude. Good morning.”

Elizabeth wiped her mouth with her napkin and quickly rose and left the room.

“You would do well to remember, Miss Bingley, that you are a guest at Pemberley. I may not be old enough to be out, but I am old enough to understand that you believe you have the right to give me permission to do things in my own home. But I counsel you, you do not. My brother does not know you still reside in a guest chamber, but I warn you, if you persist on insulting Elizabeth or me, he will know. And he will not like it.

Georgiana's anger began to subside and she could feel herself begin to shake and her eyes to tear. She would not allow Miss Bingley to see her vulnerabilities, so she quickly pushed back her chair and followed Elizabeth out of the room and out of the house.

Miss Darcy searched the grounds to see what direction Elizabeth took and when she saw her friend rapidly walking toward the duck pond, Georgiana did the very unladylike thing of hitching up her skirts and running to catch up with the woman she knew someday would be her sister.

“Elizabeth!”

Lizzy turned to see the young girl running toward her and automatically opened her arms. Georgiana ran into them and immediately allowed her tears to fall.

“I hate her, Elizabeth!”

“No, you do not! You could not hate,” Elizabeth said in a tone she imagined her Aunt Gardiner would use. “Well, maybe there is one you and I can both hate, but I do not believe it is Miss Bingley.”

“She is pushy and cruel. She chases my brother, but he would not marry a woman such as her. He searches for a woman like my mother. Kind, beautiful, warm and intelligent.”

“Miss Bingley is intelligent.” Elizabeth said with a smile.

“Not enough. If she thinks my brother would notice her as anything other than his friend's sister, she cannot be that intelligent!”

“You are correct. Perhaps she is not as intelligent as I thought,” Elizabeth said with a smile.

“My brother does not want her here and I am sorry that she stayed behind. It will not make it easy for you. I know that is what my brother wanted for you. He wanted you to have a peace while he brought things back to order. You have too many things to worry about and…”

“Shh, let us not speak of them right now. I worry enough on my own. I do not know how Lydia fares and I worry about her travel home and what will happen once she arrives…”

“She will be well. My brother will see to it. He is so good, I do not deserve such a good brother…”

“Georgiana, you do deserve such a brother. You are very lucky to have a brother who cares so for you. I have none. If something were to happen to my father, we, my mother, sisters and I, would be at the mercy of my uncles. Neither can afford to takes us all in. I would have to take employment, but you will always have a home and security. Your bother has made it so.”

“He will make it so for you too, Elizabeth,” the girl smiled.

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“Mr. Bennet… I… I wish nothing more than to marry your daughter. But I do not believe she would wish the same.” Darcy said to the man who lay in his bed.

“Darcy. The doctor says that I shall live. I have made it through the night and now I have an even greater incentive to remain alive. You have revealed your plan to save my youngest daughter,” Mr. Bennet spoke in a whisper conserving his strength. He had a great deal to say to the man who seemed intent on saving him and his family. “And I can only assume it is because of your feelings for my second. I heard a good deal of your ramblings last night, sir. I know how you feel about my daughter. And if what you spoke the truth about your meeting in Kent, it would explain a number of things to me. I do not think my daughter is as opposed to you as you believe.”

“My actions were inexcusable… I…”

“You kissed the woman you love. My Lizzy is a special woman. It is easy to understand how you could come to love her so. She would not have allowed such liberties if she did not feel something for you. Tell me, sir, did she push you away or slap you?”

“N-no.” Darcy said looking at the man who should want to run him through with one of the foils mounted above the mantle.

Mr. Bennet could not bring himself to ask if his daughter returned the kiss so inappropriately shared in Derbyshire, but his eyes asked the younger man.

Darcy saw the question in the older man's eye and did not want to add to the man's despair by telling him that Elizabeth held on to him as if she her life depended on it. But somehow the gentleman could see the answer in Darcy's eyes. Mr. Bennet just nodded and after a few moments said, “When my brother Gardiner arrives, would you send him to me? No matter the hour?”

“I will,” Darcy replied and Mr. Bennet nodded again and closed his eyes.

Darcy rose from the chair next to the bed and headed for the hall. He would have one of the servants sit with the sleeping man while he met with his cousin in the study. As he reached for the door, he heard the injured man speak once again.

“I suggest you procure a special license, Mr. Darcy. I do think it wise to wait for me to heal before this marriage takes place. Should I not survive my injuries, I want to know my Lizzy is settled.

Darcy bowed to the man and left the room.

Chapter 13

Mr. Bennet closed his eyes hoping sleep would come, but it did not. The pain in his body felt like fire. Whatever concoction the doctor gave him was wearing off and he supposed someone would be back to feed him more, but until then he would concentrate on something else. He thought of his youngest daughter first and hoped Darcy had been correct and she was safe.

Darcy. The man was an enigma, a puzzle that was resolving right in front of his eyes. The things the young gentleman spoke of must be true. They explained so many things Mr. Bennet knew of but had not much interest in until Lydia's folly. He believed in the veracity of Darcy's statements regarding Wickham. And to think his Lizzy had thought so much of the treacherous red coat!

Darcy's explanation of the events in Kent brought to answers to the many questions Mr. Bennet had after Elizabath returned home from her visit with Charlotte. Her attitude toward the evil blackguard was much cooler and her voracious argument against Lydia's traveling to Brighton made sense now. The improper missive Darcy spoke of had explained all to her.

Mr. Bennet attempted a smile as he pictured his favorite daughter burning with anger against the gentleman after he made his rather disparaging proposal. “Poor lad,” Mr. Bennet whispered. He knew it would have been a sight he wished he could have witnessed.

It was obvious that Darcy was besotted with his daughter. He would not be taking such an active part in rescuing his family from shame if it were not true. And he knew Lizzy must have been harboring some feelings for the young man who gave up his own quarters for the comfort of his love's father. She was changed after her return from Kent and now he knew why. He would consult with his brother Gardiner. He would know his impressions and that of his wife regarding Elizabeth and the man from Derbyshire. But somehow he knew in the depths of his heart that his daughter now belonged to the only man that could save them all.

Saving would be what his family would need should he die. Collins would evict them from Longbourn without remorse and eject them quickly. Propriety would not allow for anyone but the Gardiners or Phillips to house his wife and daughters should he die without any of his daughters married. Even so, his family would be further reduced in society's eye. An engagement would not offer the protection Mr. Bennet required for his family. He did not relish forcing his favorite into a marriage, but it must be. If Elizabeth did not presently feel she could respect the man, she would in short order. Mr. Bennet believed Darcy the type of man that not only his daughter, but also he could respect and admire. Fitzwilliam Darcy would marry his Elizabeth and he would do it as soon as it may be.

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Caroline Bingley seethed at the actions of Georgiana Darcy. “How dare that child address me in such a manner! Mr. Darcy shall hear of this and I will relay that it must be because of her connection with Miss Eliza Bennet!” Miss Bingley spoke aloud to herself as she made her way above stairs.

Miss Bingley started for her rooms when she noticed a young maid duck into a nearby room. “You there!”

“Yes, mum?” The young maid bobbed a light curtsey and tried to keep the stack of linens in her arms from toppling to the floor.

“Which room is Miss Bennet's? I need to return some borrowed item.” Caroling tapped her slippered foot.

“It would be my pleasure to return it for you, miss,” the girl answered shakily. Though no orders had been issued to the staff, all the servants were very much aware that Mrs. Reynolds was not in favor of Miss Bingley. Idle talk below stairs also mentioned that the master, though always polite, seemed to be very distant to his friend's unmarried sister.

“I prefer to do myself. It is a personal and sentimental item,” Miss Bingley was not about to tell this little wench that she had nothing but only wanted to go through Miss Eliza's belongings in search of… in search of… she did not know of what, but she was positive it would only put the woman in a negative light with Mr. Darcy.

“Rachel!” The young maid turned so quickly that a few linens escaped her hold.

“Oh!” Rachel the maid exclaimed. “Mrs. Reynolds! The miss is in need of assistance.” Rachel quickly retrieved the fallen items and silently slipped away.

“Miss Bingley. Is there a problem?” Mrs. Reynolds asked.

“No. I am looking for Miss Bennet's room. I need to…”

“Miss Bennet is out of doors walking with Miss Georgiana. She is not in her quarters,” Mrs. Reynolds informed and moved closer to Caroline. “I am afraid that you must wait until she returns or join the young ladies on their stroll.”

Caroline bristled. It was plain to see that this servant would desire to aid the country chit. Miss Bingley smiled as she thought of the joy she would have when she told the housekeeper to find other employment. It would be the first thing she would do after becoming Mrs. Darcy.

“Thank you,” Miss Bingley's tone was sarcastic and clipped. “I shall wait for them to return.”

The two women made off in opposite directions and Caroline decided she would have to resort to subterfuge in order oust Miss Eliza Bennet from Pemberley and the lives of Georgiana and Fitzwilliam Darcy.

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“Fitzwilliam! What did you find?” Darcy asked his cousin.

After speaking early in the morning, Colonel Fitzwilliam made his way to the area of town that housed Mrs. Younge's boarding house and kept watch for Wickham. It took a better part of the day, but he finally caught sight of the man as he passed too close to an open upper window in the boarding house.

“It is as you thought. He is with Mrs. Younge, Darcy!” The colonel entered the study of Darcy house and headed directly to the brandy decanter. “How does Mr. Bennet do?”

“He sleeps. The doctor continues to worry. Though the wound seems to do well, he is afraid of infection.”

“He maybe lucky. He was attended to quickly.”

“Yes, well. I believe Mr. Bennet also worries.”

“Why? Has he spoken in such a way…”

“Fitzwilliam… I… he… Oh, blast!”

“Darcy! What is it, cousin? You seem very anxious. I realize this is serious business, but…”

“Mr. Bennet demands I marry Elizabeth,” Darcy said quietly as he also poured himself glass of brandy.

“Marry? I… I do not understand. I know you are very fond of the young lady, but why would he demand that you marry?”

“How do you know that I favor Elizabeth?”

“Anyone with eyes could see it, my besotted cousin,” Fitzwilliam smiled, sipped his drink and fell into a chair. “In fact, our cousin Anne and I made a wager on it.”

Darcy could only stare at his cousin.

“Come, Darcy? I have known you all your life. Do you really believe I cannot sort out my own relations?”

Darcy's mouth open but no sound made its way out.

“Oh, you do not have to worry! Yes, your desires are evident to me, to Anne, but I do not think our other relatives would notice. Perhaps my mother could see it, but no one else except for Georgiana could see it.”

“Georgiana?” Darcy's eyes widened.

“Yes, Georgiana,” Fitzwilliam affirmed. “Now. Why must you marry the girl?”

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Elizabeth and Georgiana remained in each other company for the rest of the day and well into the evening much to the chagrin of Miss Bingley. She wished to corner Elizabeth without the younger girl as witness.

The three women sat in the music room managing to keep civil conversation. The subject that interest each member of the trio was music and somehow they held a discussion on favorite composers without offending.

“Excuse me,” Mrs. Reynolds said upon entering the room. “I am sorry to interrupt, but I thought I should offer a reminder for dinner. It should be ready within the hour.”

Caroline watched the servant leave and decided that now would be the best time to follow Eliza Bennet to her room in the guest wing. Perhaps she would even continue her façade of willingness and offer to escort the chit to her room.

“Oh, Elizabeth! You must help me choose my dress for dinner! I would wish your opinion how to do my hair!”

“Dear, Georgiana, I would be happy to suggest one of the latest styles for your hair. I am very current with the latest fashion!” Miss Bingley praised herself.

“I am sure you are correct, Miss Bingley. However, my brother may not wish me to emulate your sense of style while I am still not out,” Miss Darcy spoke with conviction. “I think my brother would prefer me to demonstrate a style more befitting my age.” Georgiana looked at the woman innocently and then glanced at Elizabeth quickly.

Elizabeth winked her approval to the girl.

“Oh! Well, I think you may be correct, Georgiana,” Miss Bingley could not find any argument with the girl's information.

“I would be my pleasure, Georgiana. I shall suggest something to your maid and then ready myself for dinner,” Elizabeth said as she stood and took Georgiana's hand and guided her up the stairs with Miss Bingley following.

Upon reaching the top, all three smiled at each other and Georgiana spoke to Miss Bingley, “Shall we all meet in the dining room in an hour?” With nods from all, Miss Bingley turned toward her room as Elizabeth and Georgiana walked in the direction of the younger girl's room.

After gracefully entering the room and closing the door, the two broke into laughter.

“I could not believe that Miss Bingley wanted to find your room, Elizabeth. When Mrs. Reynolds told me earlier, I knew Miss Bingley only meant inconvenience. If she were to discover…”

“Georgiana?” Elizabeth spoke seriously. “Why am I in your mother's room?”

“It is where my brother wishes you to stay,” the girl answered.

“Why?”

“I know only of what was written in his note to me.”

“Does he give reason?”

“Brother said only it was where you would be,” Georgiana said as she thought it must be because he wanted those rooms to become Elizabeth's. “If Mr. Wickham should try to come to Pemberley, this wing is the safest. He has no knowledge of this part of the house.”

“That must be his reasoning then,” Elizabeth said with a sigh as she told herself that there could be no other reason.

“It is nearer to my room as well. He would know that I would wish to be near you,” Georgiana offered in addition.

Elizabeth nodded with a wary smile and moved to the door and peaked out the door. She did not want to believe that Miss Bingley would be so adventurous to follow, but if she had and the servants did not impede her… well, it was better to be safe.

“It is clear. I shall go and ready myself,” Elizabeth said as she slipped into the hall.

“We can go down by way of the servant's stairs. Meet me here when you are ready, Elizabeth and I will show you the way.”

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The Gardiner's coach arrived in Cheapside late in the afternoon and within three quarters of an hour, all occupants transferred to an unmarked carriage drawn by animals from Darcy's stables. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were given rooms in Darcy's townhouse and while Mrs. Gardiner tried to rest, her husband conferred with a now extremely weak Mr. Bennet.

Darcy remained in his study as the two men conversed. There was no need to further tire Mr. Bennet with more persons than needed. Darcy was already aware of the man's desires and, to be honest, he aspired for the same conclusion. It was only Elizabeth's wishes he worried after.

“Darcy,” Mr. Gardiner greeted the younger man as he entered through the open door.

“Mr. Bennet? How does he fare?”

“Not well, I am afraid. He grows weak rapidly.”

“I believe he expended too much in his wait for you,” Darcy said as he offered Mr. Gardiner a glass of refreshment.

“You may be correct,” Mr. Gardiner took the glass and moved to sit in a offered chair. “My brother Bennet is determined, sir.”

“Yes.”

“More so now that he has had my information.”

“I am sorry, Mr. Gardiner. What information?”

“I told him of the depth of my nieces regard for you. You must realize that she has a great deal of... affection for you?”

Darcy stared at the man with a confused look on his features.

“Ah, I see. Young love is truly blind at times,” Gardiner smiled into his glass. After a sip of the golden liquid, he continued, “Whatever has passed between the two of you before this summer, sir, Elizabeth has warmed to you a great deal. She said as much to my wife. Elizabeth admitted her regard for you, Mr. Darcy.”

Even with the seriousness of the situation and all the dire predicaments needing attendance, Mr. Gardiner could help but chuckle at the shocked look on the tall, young man who stood before him.

“I am afraid, Mr. Darcy, that my neice is just as besotted with you as you are with her.”

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Wickham keep to the house. He kept Rebecca Younge in her bed and tired them both throughout the day. Both slept. Wickham thought it would do well to expend some of his desires. It would allow him to think clearer. Though thoughts of Elizabeth Bennet only drove him to yet another excited state. He rolled over and reached for Rebecca once again.

Mrs. Younge slapped his hands away and Wickham grabbed her wrists, yanking her to his naked body.

“Do not refuse me, woman!”

“I am tired. You have had enough,” Rebecca Younge spoke with authority.

Wickham slapped her hard and pulled her underneath his body. “You will do as you are told!” Wickham imagined her Elizabeth and practiced his carnal capture of the Bennet he lusted for.

Chapter 14

Darcy quietly slipped into his chambers to remove a special item from a hidden place. He stopped and stared at Mr. Bennet and began to feel fear. Two days and three nights had past since Wickham attacked the older man, and his appearance made it seem as if he were positioned at death's door for more than a fortnight.

What the doctor feared had come to pass and infection was attacking Mr. Bennet's body. He was burning with fever. The doctor, the maids and even Darcy's own man were taking their turn applying damp cloths in hopes of reversing the high temperature.

“Darcy?” Mr. Bennet slipped out on a rough whisper.

“Mr. Bennet! Please, sir. Do not speak. Retain your energies to fight your illness. I shall…” Darcy tried to instruct the older man.

“N-n-nooo… must say… P-please go to m-m-my L-l-lizzy. Take c-c-care…”

“Of course, sir. I promise with everything I have,” Darcy whispered back to him as he knelt down on the floor next to the bed. “But you must fight this illness. Elizabeth will not be happy with me if you do not. It is my error that you were injured…”

“S-s-stop, l-l-lad. You… are… not… to… blame.” Mr. Bennet stared into Darcy's eyes as he spoke his words with conviction even if they came forth in a whisper. “Go. Go to her. Now.” Thomas Bennet pushed Darcy with little strength he had.

Darcy nodded, rose, went into his dressing rooms and retrieved what he had come for. He paused at the end of the bed when entering the bedchamber again and stared into Mr. Bennet's eyes. With another nod and a slight bow, Darcy left the room and all but ran down the stairs. He was to meet with the Colonel and Mr. Gardiner in the next hour. Once the meeting was concluded, he would ride back to Derbyshire and Elizabeth, but now he needed to calm himself. Memories of his own father and his last days assailed him as he paced his study. His head began to ache as he clinched his jaw tighter and tighter.

Darcy did not relish telling Elizabeth of her father. Though an express had been sent to Longbourn, no information was sent to Pemberley. The agreement was made for Elizabeth to be told in person. Originally the revised plan allowed for the ladies to travel to London sooner, but with Wickham only being watched, the danger was too high for both Elizabeth and Georgiana. Colonel Fitzwilliam would remain in London and watch the nefarious scoundrel while Darcy returned to Derbyshire.

“Darcy.” Colonel Fitzwilliam entered the study a quarter of an hour early.

“Fitzwilliam. Does he still keep to the boarding house?”

“He does,” the Colonel spoke in shortened tones.

“You are still angry with me, are you not? Darcy asked.

“You think I would be happy with you, cousin?”

“At least you still seem to claim me as family.”

“I am rethinking that,” The Colonel all but slammed his fist on the sideboard. “You compromised a woman, Darcy. A gentleman's daughter. You! My staid cousin. A man with supposed integrity!”

“It was only a kiss, Fitzwilliam,” Darcy spoke the words but even he did not believe in their simplicity.

“Yes, but something affords the impression that you would not have stopped with just a kiss had you the opportunity.” Fitzwilliam stared at Darcy. “Am I wrong, Darcy?”

Darcy looked to the floor then back to his cousin.

“Tell me I am wrong, Darcy. Tell me!”

“I cannot,” Darcy had to admit to himself as well as his cousin. In his mind and his heart, Fitzwilliam Darcy had all ready married Elizabeth Bennet. He dared not confess to his cousin he had her all ready ensconced in the mistress's quarters.

Silence fell over the two men as they nervously awaited Mr. Gardiner who was returning from Hertfordshire where he took his wife to care for the Gardiner children and help with Mrs. Bennet. Darcy felt the irony of his own relations taking him to task while Elizabeth's father all but beg him to wed his daughter.

After twenty minutes, Mr. Gardiner arrived and the men conferred before the Colonel took his leave.

“You are welcome to reside here, Mr. Gardiner, while I am to Derbyshire,” Darcy spoke as he readied to take his mount for Derbyshire.

“No. I shall ride with you, sir. My brother Bennet's request.” Mr. Gardiner smiled at the young man. “Do not worry, sir. I shall not slow you down. I may not look it, but I am practiced on horseback. I cannot promise not to be sore upon our arrival however.” The man smiled and followed Darcy to the stable.

Darcy wondered if Mr. Bennet was worried he would shirk his duty and not marry Elizabeth. “He knows I love her…” He whispered.

“He does, but I carry two special messages for Elizabeth,” Mr. Gardiner answered what he knew he was not supposed to hear. “It would do me well, I think, for me to give away the bride.”

Darcy nodded and the two gentlemen set out for the long ride to Pemberley.

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Caroline Bingley was becoming more and more frustrated. Georgiana requested Eliza's company for this or that. You would think the girl was still in the nursery and in need of a story each night the way she dragged the country simpleton above stairs. Both women seemed to magically appear down stairs without the use of a staircase at all the appointed times. It never occurred to her that the servants seemed to be able to do the same or that there might be an alternate route other than Pemberley's grand staircase.

“Eliza Bennet, have you heard from Miss Lydia? Do you know if she returns home safe?” Caroline simpered at the dinner table.

“An express arrived yesterday, Miss Bingley. I believe I mentioned it at last evening's repast. Do you not recall?”

“Oh, yes. I do now recall. I am afraid I do not really care to remember what transpires to a girl of that age,” Caroline said as she speared a piece of potato and placed it in her mouth.

Elizabeth stared at the thoughtless woman and wondered if she even realized Georgiana and Lydia shared the same age for a single month each year? No. It would not occur to her, Elizabeth thought as she turned to Miss Darcy and offered her a sympathetic smile.

“Perhaps not, Miss Bingley. But your brother and sister also traveled in the party. I would think you would wish to know they arrived safe and well.”

Caroline Bingley shrugged without commitment. She was only too ready to make her way to London. It would be another week before they would travel. It would be better when they arrived in town. Eliza would be on her way back to Hertfordshire and she, Caroline, could spend her time as companion to Miss Darcy, righting the girl to the proper ways of a lady. Mr. Darcy would be so happy to have his sister properly tutored after the horrific manners instilled in the girl over a short nine-day acquaintance with Miss Eliza Bennet.

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Life at Longbourn returned to momentary normalcy after Lydia arrived. She claimed weariness for the first day and most of the next morning, but soon made an appearance. Kitty constantly badgered her for information of soldiers and the activities available in Brighton.

Lydia thought to herself how just a few weeks ago she would have loved to recite all the tidbits she knew would make her sister jealous, but now there was only a strong need protect her older sister from the horrific experiences she endured.

“Oh, Kitty. I was very much disappointed. I enjoyed the sea. The salt air was wonderful and the sound of the waves crashing on the shore was very calming, but I'm afraid Brighton lacked the excitement of Longbourn. I can only account it to the company.”

“Surely Denny, Carter and Wickham made for excitement, Lydia,” Kitty interjected.

Relieved to be facing away when Wickham's name was mentioned, Lydia took a deep breath and turned toward her sister. “No. They were not as exciting. They were very altered, not at all like they were encamped here. I found myself very lonely for home. When I happened upon Mr. Bingley and his sisters, I was overjoyed for their kind offer to bring me home.”

“But the colonel of the regiment sent a note that you… you eloped… with Wickham?”

“If I did, I would not be here! What I heard from others speaking of Mr. Wickham was he seemed very upset with his roll with the militia. Perhaps he made that excuse to desert. But I would not go with him. He always preferred Lizzy and he thought Mary King pretty.” Lydia felt the lie throughout her entire body, but it was necessary to preserve her family's reputation. Both Mr. Bingley and Mrs. Hurst impressed the need for her to keep to the story they helped Darcy fabricate. It seemed enough for Kitty for she laughed at the idea of Mary King's beauty.

After the express arrived telling of Mr. Bennet's injury, Lydia quieted considerably. It was only Mrs. Bennet's exclamations of living among the hedgerows that could be heard from every part of Longbourn. Even Mr. Bingley's assurances they would always be welcome at Netherfield could not calm Mrs. Bennet. Mrs. Gardiner's arrival aided the serenity of the family group.

It was Aunt Gardiner and Louisa Hurst who privately consoled Lydia when the attacker became known. They interposed the information that it was Mr. Bennet who discovered the recently deserted soldier in town; the older man's threat of expulsion caused the attack. The people of Hertfordshire took to the story with ease. Never did anyone suspect that the story of elopement contained truth.

The arrival of Mr. Collins in the area was enough to bring the entire village of Meryton out as he declared Mr. Bennet should not live out the week and it would be much better for all if Mrs. Bennet and her daughters could vacate his inheritance immediately.

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Mr. Darcy and Mr. Gardiner arrived at Pemberley two days after setting out from London. The men rode their mounts until both man and beast could barely stand and the gentlemen managed to direct their tired bodies toward the house when a loud door slam directed their attention to the terrace just off the breakfast room.

Gardiner and Darcy looked at each other as they watched an angry Elizabeth storm off toward the garden. It was but seconds later when the same door opened again and Georgiana repeated Elizabeth's actions only to run toward the other woman. Another woman stepped out onto the terrace and laughed a sadistic cackle.

“Miss Caroline Bingley! What do you do in my house?” Darcy screamed in anger.

“Mr. Darcy!” the woman's tone turned to a syrupy sweet drawl.

“Brother!” Georgiana yelled and, while holding onto Elizabeth's hand, ran toward the two men. “You have come home!”

At the sight of Elizabeth, Darcy was no longer tired and rushed to the two women. He kissed his sister's forehead and then placed an arm about both Elizabeth and Georgiana. “Come to my study and tell me what is wrong. And why that woman is here. Why did she not go with Bingley?

Elizabeth looked at her uncle and saw him smile. Glancing back toward the house, Lizzy saw Caroline Bingley turn a frightening shade of purple. In order to avoid anymore than she could take without speaking something she should not, Elizabeth tried to remove herself from Darcy's hold.

“No, Elizabeth,” Darcy whispered in her ear. “Come with me, my love. You and Georgiana will be safe in my study. I have news to relate.”

Chapter 15

Caroline Bingley stared with shock and anger as Darcy led his sister and that impudent country flirt into the house. She fisted her hands so tight from outrage that her fingernails spade into the flesh of her palms as she thought, How dare that… that tarnished wench try to insinuate herself with Darcy! She will suffer for her impositions. This will not do at all. She has bewitched him. To be sure she has offered her flesh to him and this is why he acts so. I shall remedy the problem and Darcy will thank me for freeing him from her clutches. I now know what I must do and I shall do it after I finish breaking my fast!

Miss Bingley returned to the house from whence she came and smiled at her plan. She sat back down at the table and returned to her food. Placing servings into her mouth was the only thing keeping her from continuing her sadistic cackling.

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“Why is Miss Bingley in residence?” Darcy asked the now seated Miss Elizabeth Bennet and Georgiana Darcy.

“She claimed ailment, Brother,” Georgiana offered. “Mr. Bingley was not willing to wait the three days or so it took for Miss Bingley to recover. He left as planned the day after you.”

“I see,” Darcy stated as he looked at his sister. She seemed different, more confident. The way she spoke seemed so… so… assertive.

“Oh, brother, she has been quite cruel! Especially to Elizabeth! She tried to gain access to her rooms and…”

“Georgiana!” Elizabeth admonished the girl. Though she was honored by the girl's need to protect her, Elizabeth did not want her to lose her manners by tattling.

Darcy looked at Elizabeth, then to his sister and back to Elizabeth and smiled. He knew his Elizabeth would have a favorable influence on Georgiana. And he had the proof before him. Within a fortnight Georgiana had all ready changed, become more confident, more vocal. It was easy to see his quiet and shy young sister would become a formidable woman under his new wife's tutelage.

Turning to Elizabeth, Darcy asked, “For what purpose would Miss Bingley need access to your chambers?”

“I… I… I do not know,” Elizabeth spoke still flustered from the way Mr. Darcy escorted her into the house not to mention remembering in which rooms she was quartered. She glanced at her uncle who seemed to overlook the impropriety of the contact she shared with Mr. Darcy upon returning to the house and raised her eyebrow when she noticed Uncle Gardiner wink at her.

“She plans mischief, William” Georgiana spoke again. “She is jealous of Elizabeth and is trying to taint her character so you would not marry her.”

“Geor-gee-aaa-nah!” Elizabeth growled.

“But it is true, Elizabeth!” Georgiana defended herself.

“Whatever Miss Bingley's reasons, it is not proper to speak so,” Elizabeth spoke the words and her eyes tried to communicate the mortification over the implication of marriage, but Miss Darcy was still too young not to pick up on the nuance.

Mr. Gardiner smiled and made his way closer the women. “I think now would be a good moment for me to deliver one of my letters, Darcy.” Darcy nodded and Elizabeth's uncle handed her a letter addressed to her in what looked to be a very shaky version of her father's hand.

“Miss Darcy,” Mr. Gardiner spoke to the younger girl after handing off the missive. “Would you do me the honor of playing the pianoforte? I so enjoyed your last performance.”

Georgiana wished to remain with Elizabeth and was about to decline when her brother spoke for her.

“She would love to do so, Mr. Gardiner.” Darcy moved toward the study door and opened it. Miss Bingley stood close to the threshold giving away that she had been eavesdropping. “It would seem Miss Bingley would also like to be in audience, Georgiana. Mr. Gardiner, would you do the honors of escorting the two ladies to the music room?”

“My pleasure, sir.” Mr. Gardiner offered each woman an arm then glanced at Darcy and gave him a wink of encouragement as he left Darcy and Elizabeth alone in the study.

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George Wickham slipped out of the boarding house under the cover of night and weather and made his way through the foggy streets of London. He needed word of Mr. Bennet. Did he still live? He hoped for the man's life. A murder charge would make leaving more difficult. Perhaps it would do to give up his plans for the lovely Miss Elizabeth Bennet before gaining passage on a ship to America.

Wickham paused in the doorway of a riverside pub and kept his eye out for a tail. The fog was so thick that anyone following would have to keep close in order to maintain a vigil eye. When no one approached, he knew that his quick turns and fast step had eluded his shadow.

He made his way to Cheapside and discovered from a maid in the employ of a neighbor that Mr. Bennet and the newly returned Gardiner party had escaped their home to an address in Mayfair.

“Mayfair?” Wickham said with a raise of his eyebrows. “They must be well connected.”

“Aye. So it seems. My friend, Mary, say it a quite fine house too. One on the richest block,” the maid spoke as she gave Wickham a hungry glance. “Do you be one of those men of money?”

“Not the kind who can boast of a home on one of those fine streets, but I do have enough to keep me comfortable. Enough to purchase stateroom passage to America.”

“You intend to make your fortune bigger in America?”

“I do,” Wickham purred and moved closer to the scullery maid. He could see her interest in him and the thought of America. “There is enough room in my accommodations for another should someone like to join me.”

The maid laughed. “One would be needin' money for that. I be lucky to have a shilling.”

Wickham now stood so close to the maid that he could feel her breast's taut peaks. “Ah, but my wife could travel with me for no more than what I have all ready paid.”

“Your wife?” the maid smiled and wrapped her hands around his neck. “But I am married now. It is why I wish to go to America. My husband is not a proper husband.”

“I did not say we would truly have to be wed. We would just pretend.” Wickham pressed his hand to her breast and began to knead the soft mount.

“What would I be needin' to give ya to pretend bein' my husband?”

“Just the full address of the house in Mayfair and…” Wickham kissed her hard, pulled up her skirts and pushed her against the wall as he unfastened his breeches. “And this!” He growled as he pushed his hard manhood into her body.

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Elizabeth sat at the dressing table and looked at herself in the mirror. It had been just three days since Darcy had returned to Pemberley and so much had occurred. Reading her father's note, which had been primarily penned by her uncle from Mr. Bennet's dictation, relayed her father's injury and a bit of intelligence that Elizabeth still found hard to believe. Her father insisted that Darcy loved her still and set about to right all of Wickham's wrongs done the Bennets in order that Darcy might court and marry her.

Upon reading the passages informing her that her father, and by proxy her uncle, were aware of her interlude with Darcy by the pond, she felt so mortified that she almost slumped from the chair where she sat. When she realized that Mr. Darcy was still in the room with her, she rose quickly only to find her legs would not support her. Again she found herself in Darcy's arms and could only nod when he announced that they would be wed in by the end of the week.

The woman she saw in the mirror would be Mrs. Darcy within the hour. She wore a beautiful dress and her hair was beautifully arranged in a style befit a queen. Around her neck, she wore a pendant-like locket. Mr. Darcy had given it to her the night before. A wedding gift passed on from his mother. Inside a miniature of precious babe looked at her with curious eyes. She smiled at the little face and wondered if her children would resemble this cherub or favor her.

The thought of children reminded her of the small horse who kept her company each night. The small toy to whom she told her frustrations over the haughty Miss Bingley, the fears concerning Lydia's well being and her hope that Jane and Mr. Bingley would come to an understanding.

Jane. Dear Jane, how she wished her dear sister could be with her on this day. Would Jane soon stand in the church at Longbourn as Mr. Bingley's bride? Elizabeth smiled knowing that it would happen. It was part of Mr. Darcy's plan, she knew, an effort to right another wrong… one of his own making. Mr. Darcy was the best of men. Even her father had insisted so.

She read his letter over and over. Her father stated that Mr. Darcy loved her and so it must be even if the man had never spoke the words himself. They were marrying in less than an hour and not even Caroline Bingley was able to sabotage every aspect of the preparations.

A knock on the door interrupted her reverie. “Yes?” Elizabeth called.

“It is time, Lizzy,” Edward Gardiner stood looking at his niece. “You are a vision, Elizabeth! I wish your father could see you at this moment.”

“How is Papa?” Elizabeth asked.

Mr. Gardiner did not wish to worry his niece and so answered, “Determined.” He held out his hand and the two made their way down stairs and to the carriage that would take them to the chapel.

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All those in residence at Pemberley witnessed the wedding as did a number of favored servants and tenants. Mrs. Reynolds planned the wedding breakfast and Mr. Marware headed the preparations for the tenants picnic feast. All of Pemberley celebrated the master and his new wife and no one questioned the speed at which it took place.

Elizabeth moved about the small group in a daze. It all seemed a dream. Could she really be married to Mr. Darcy? It seemed impossible with all that had occurred, but she was his wife and she could not help but smile. He loved her. He loved her enough to marry her despite all of Wickham's actions and cruelty to Lydia. There could be no finer a gentleman than her husband.

“My husband,” she whispered to herself with a small smile. She looked across the room and admired him as stood speaking with her uncle. He looked so handsome in his wedding clothes. Her smile slowly grew as she remembered what it was like to be in his arms and could not wait for him to hold her such once more. As she admired her new husband, she noticed his steward, Mr. Marware, enter the room and speak quietly to him. The shocked and worried expression that crossed Darcy's face made Elizabeth's smile instantly vanish.

Darcy moved out of the room and Elizabeth walked briskly to the door to see her new husband enter his study with a newly arrived and equally worried Colonel Fitzwilliam and close the door.

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