Until We Meet Again…

Blurb: This is my first attempt at Pride and Prejudice fan fiction. So I'm a little nervous, but I hope you enjoy the story. I'd like to take a moment to thank my betas, Paddy, Wendy and Ellen, for all their hard work.
The plot of the story centers on an already married Darcy and Lizzy. When the story opens they have been married a little over 4 years, however misunderstanding and tragedy pull them apart. Sadly, their separated for the next three years…until Georgiana is hurt in terrible car accident which abruptly throws Elizabeth and Darcy back in to each others lives. Will this second chance be what they need to get back together? Can they overcome the lies and grief that has plagued their relationship? This is story about love, betrayal, and of course second chances. The following are the lyrics by Diana Ross not only inspired the title of the story but also some of the plot as well. So without further ado…


Until we meet again.
Who would have ever thought
The day could ever come
When we would see
A love like this fall into pieces

And it hurts me to know that now til then
Ill only have these memories
And now there's no time left to pretend
And it feels like its the end
But you're always in my heart
Until we meet again

Now I have to let you go
There's no way we can be friends
But you're always part of me
Until we meet again

Why while our love was strong
We still couldn't make it
Did time have to take our live in different directions
And it hurts cause there's no way for me to reach you
Were so far apart
When did we grow so far apart

And now there's no time left to pretend
And it feels like its the end
But you're always in my heart
Until we meet again

Now I have to let you go
There's no way we can be friends
But you're always part of me
Until we meet again

Deep in my heart I know
Ill see you again well I don't know
Where or when.. but till then

And now there's no time left to pretend
And it feels like its the end
But you're always in my heart
Until we meet again

Now I have to let you go
There's no way we can be friends
But you're always part of me
Until we meet again

And now there's no time left to pretend
And it feels like its the end
But you're always in my heart


Prologue

William Darcy walked in his front door with a heavy heart thinking it had been the longest six months of his entire life. Mostly, he'd spent the time throwing himself into his work, trying to deal with the pain and grief that had consumed the last year of his life. But every morning the pain slapped him in the face at the sight of her—his wife. His beautiful wife, Elizabeth, who was now a shell of the vibrant woman she once was. He remembered when he first met her—a simple southern girl straight off the plantation. He could hardly believe Georgiana had set him up with such a girl and had almost blown off the date entirely, but for the sake of his sister he had stayed. In one evening he had become mesmerized with her. He had never met another woman who could keep up him so well. Their relationship had never been easy; she didn't exactly like him when they first met however his love and constant friendship had finally turned her heart. Their first three years of marriage had been perfect…Elizabeth and he had been so happy.


William considered Elizabeth a piece of his heart and soul. She was irreplaceable. He loved her so much, and he thought they could have handled anything together, weathered any storm, but now he just didn't know what to do.


After she had lost the baby their relationship had completely fallen apart. She wouldn't speak to anyone about it; in fact she almost tried to completely ignore it. However he could see the grief in her eyes and could hear here cries late at night. It tortured him that he couldn't do anything to help her.


Almost five months later, when he finally felt that they were starting to make headway in their relationship her younger sister, Lydia, had disappeared. He had done everything to find her, followed every lead and in the end he had found her. However, what he found tore him to the very core. She was in a shelter, pregnant, worn, and utterly alone. He'd had taken her to the hospital and then to Elizabeth aunt and uncle's home in London. Physically she and the baby were healthy but emotionally she was a wreck. George Wickham had kidnapped her, tied her up and then left her for dead. Lydia had truly believed that Wickham had loved her, but she could not have been more wrong. Elizabeth was shaken when she learned of her sister's pain. Elizabeth had pulled away from him again and tried to keep all her emotions bottled inside.


While his heart was breaking as his wife shut him out from her pain, he had helped the police apprehend Wickham. However, because of the legal agreement he had entered into with the police he couldn't tell the woman he loved his role in Lydia's rescue or Wickham's capture until after the trial was over. Darcy attended every day of the trial and finally learned of Wickam's real motive for kidnapping his wife's sister. What he learned he knew would destroy his wife.


Wickham had never meant to kidnap Lydia. In fact, it had been Elizabeth he wanted. He had been obsessed with her, and wanted to take her away with him. Wickham had a private bungalow in Fiji that he had planned on taking her to. George had first met her soon after Elizabeth and William had become engaged. Although William hated George Wickham, he had never told his fiancée about his dealings with the man.


William had spent most of his childhood watching his father expand his great-grandfather's company from a profitable organization to a world-wide Fortune five hundred company. George Darcy had put Pemberley Technologies on the map. So when William caught Wickham stealing from his father's dream he had thrown him out of the company, hoping never to hear from him again. However he didn't realize that by keeping the truth from Elizabeth he only put her in danger. Elizabeth, not realizing that she should not trust George, became fast friends with him. When William found out, the fight they had over him had almost broken their engagement. However, after a week of not speaking to one another they had both broken down their resolve. Elizabeth had listened to William's story and was horrified at the type of man she had trusted. William had told her about how he had trusted George and that later George had broken that trust by trying to steal from his father's company. Wickham had taken from the man whose money had paid for his education and had gotten him out of many questionable situations in his younger days. William also told her about Wickham's arrest for the assault of a girl he had met in college. Although the police had not had enough evidence to convict George, William was convinced that he had done it. That day had been a turning point in their relationship and they had agreed to no longer keep secrets from one another. So not telling her about the kidnapping had been weighing on him heavily.


Wickham, however, had still not left them alone even after Elizabeth told him their friendship was over. He was like a child and telling him he couldn't have something made him want it more. He had continued to stalk Elizabeth while developing a relationship with her youngest sister Lydia. Lydia had come to spend the summer in England with Elizabeth and himself and since she had never been as close to Lydia as her other sisters she had never talked to her about her love life. Sadly this meant she had never thought to warn her about how dangerous George Wickham really was.


George had grown more obsessed with Elizabeth with each passing day. Elizabeth and William were married and perfectly happy not realizing the danger that had lurked on the horizon. Finally, George decided that he had to have her even if it meant kidnapping. When the day finally arrived and he realized that he wasn't going to be able to kidnap Elizabeth, he had grabbed her sister instead. His original plan was not to ask for a ransom, but to swap Elizabeth for Lydia. His plan was ridiculous and had failed, but in end he had left Lydia pregnant and alone.


When the trial was over and Wickham was sentenced William still felt his wife wasn't ready for the extra burden of knowing the truth--that she was Wickham's motivation for her sister's misery.


However, keeping secrets from his wife was not in William's nature, so he had finally decided to tell her tonight. She deserved to know the truth even though it would hurt her, but he honestly didn't know where to begin. He entered the foyer and called her name, "Beth?" no answer. "Beth?" Still no answer.


He entered the living room expecting to find her curled up on the couch, but she wasn't there. He began to search every room in the house, but she was nowhere to be found. Fear ripped through him as he went into the master bedroom and found a letter on his pillow. He opened it with trembling fingers. The first thing he noticed was her signature was not nearly as neat as it usually was, like her hand had been shaking while she wrote the missive and it was blotted with tear stains.


Dear Will,

I honestly don't know where to begin, but I think I should tell you that I've decided to leave and stay with my Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. I don't plan on staying there very long as I hope to leave for the States within a week. I am going home Will. Please don't try to find me, please just let me go. I know this won't be easy for either of us but there is just too much pain for me to deal with right now. I can't... I just can't be with you. We've just hurt each other too much and I just can't live with the thought that I'm bringing you pain. I'm miserable. I need time to think, to breathe, to feel again. My heart hurts Will and I just don't know how to deal with this pain anymore. In my heart I know I still love you, but right now I just can't live with you.

I'll take the privilege of signing one last time,
Elizabeth Darcy]

Chapter 1


Three years later


“William Darcy.”


“Mr. Darcy, this is Joan Phillips. I'm a nurse at Memorial Hospital in London.”


“Oh hello, can I help you?”


“I'm calling in regards to Georgiana Lewis. We found your number in her purse. Are you her brother?”


“Yes I am. Is everything okay?”


“Mr. Darcy I'm sorry to inform you but your sister has been in an accident—”


“What? Is she alright?”


“Well she's in critical condition; she's lost a lot of blood. She will need multiple surgeries and they need a family member's consent.”


“Have you contacted her husband, Brandon Lewis?”


“No sir, he was also involved in the accident.”


“Oh my god…is he alright?”


“Sir, the doctor thinks it would be best if you got to the hospital as soon as possible.”


“I'm on my way,” said Will as he slammed the phone down. He tried to take a few deep breaths to calm himself, but he was on edge. His sister, his one and only baby sister was hurt. He called his best friend Charles Bingley to drive him; he knew he was too upset to drive.


Half-hour later found Will, Charles, and his wife Jane speeding from Derbyshire towards the hospital in London.


“Will did the nurse give you any indication of what happened?”
“No Charles. She just said she was in critical condition and that I needed to get there as soon as possible. God…Charles I can't lose her. She's been the only good thing in my life since—.” Will stopped abruptly and turned to stare out the window. However, both Charles and Jane knew what Will's next words were going to be, since Elizabeth left me. Will hardly ever talked about it, not even to Charles.


Jane, who was sitting in the backseat, frowned and turned to stare at Charles through the rearview mirror. He gave her a sympathetic smile and then turned his eyes back to the road.


Jane shook her head as she watched the passing country side and thought about how Elizabeth loved Derbyshire. The rolling hills, the green grass, the beautiful summers…


Her mind turned back to the events that had taken place almost four years ago. Although she loved her sister, this was the one time in her life when she had ever felt truly disappointed in her. Elizabeth had walked away from Will and her marriage three years ago without ever truly trying to work out the things that happened between them.


Now, Jane hardly ever talked to her sister, usually just once or twice every three months and had not seen her since a week before she left Will. Elizabeth, after leaving her Aunt and Uncle's in London, had gone back to their parents' small plantation in Mississippi. Her life in Mississippi had only lasted a month before she realized that home wasn't really an option for her anymore. Her mother, Frances, constantly whined and complained that Elizabeth was ruining her life by running away from such a rich man as Will, and their father of course never thought to intervene. Finally, enough was enough and she had packed up again and moved to the West Coast.


In Jane's mind, she saw it as Elizabeth's way of getting as far away as possible from William. Jane last spoke with Elizabeth two months ago and their conversation had been brief and strained. Elizabeth had forbidden Jane from even mentioning William Darcy's name for three years. As Charles and Jane were constantly in company with Will, it was hard to find anything to talk to Elizabeth about without mentioning him in the process. However she could listen. Elizabeth tried to sound happy but Jane could tell her sister was still harboring a lot of pain and was refusing to deal with it. Jane could almost laugh at the hypocrisy of it all. Her sister was a Grief Counselor and yet refused to deal with her own grief.


It was hard for Jane to side with her sister on this matter because although Beth was her sister, and had earned the right of her undying loyalty, Jane truly felt her sister was wrong.


The pain and depression that had settled on Will's life as the weeks passed by without Elizabeth's return had weighed heavily on Jane. It hurt her to see such a dear friend with such an ache in his heart, and even harder when she knew the antidote but wasn't able to supply it.


She knew William would have forgiven her sister for leaving -- for anything, if she would have just come back. Jane had wanted to tell William to go to her but she felt that if he went Beth would just run again. Beth was stubborn and when she made up her mind about something it was almost impossible to change it. In her heart, Jane believed he knew where she was but could never bring himself to go to her, and after spending a six months calling and writing her everyday without any encouragement, he had just simply given up.


From their phone conversations, Jane had learned that Elizabeth had never opened any of the letters or emails and had deleted the phone messages before listening to them. Elizabeth hated to admit she was wrong and Jane knew she wouldn't be persuaded to come home, so she had just let her be.

***

Two hours later, the threesome pulled up to Memorial Hospital. Will had jumped out of the car before Charles even had a chance to park. After Will had fled from the car, he ran to the reception desk and nearly bit the receptionist's head off. However, Jane, recognizing Will's attitude decided to use a calm, polite approach to retrieve information about Georgiana.


“Excuse my friend here. He has learned his sister is in critical condition and is very worried. Could you please tell us where we can find Georgiana Darcy Lewis?”


“Yes miss, hold on a moment and it's quite alright.” A moment later the woman reappeared, “Miss, she is currently in emergency surgery, so you will all have to wait here for news. We do need Mr. Darcy to fill out some forms for us. These are for Mrs. Lewis,” the receptionist motioned to the papers in her right hand, “and these are for Mr. Lewis,” she said motioning to the papers in her left hand.


Jane helped Will fill out the papers, while Charles had gone to get coffee. They were told that Georgiana's surgery would still take several hours to complete so the three of them sat and waited as hours ticked by with no word.


Will thought over the last three years and knew that he wouldn't have made it through those first horrible months of his separation from Elizabeth without his sister. She was invaluable to him, and he knew he couldn't bear to lose her. He was terrified as all the possibilities ran through his head. Georgiana was not his only concern; he was also worried about Brandon Lewis. Georgiana and he were the perfect couple, and had only been married for a little over five years. They had a two year old daughter named, Anne, and he was deeply worried about what would happen to her. He knew he would take care of Anne without question, but he just didn't know what to do. Finally, not being able to sit any longer, Will paced up and down the length of the waiting room.


He continued to pace oblivious to the outside world until he felt a touch upon his shoulder. Whirling about, he saw Jane, who was holding out a cup of coffee to him. He smiled gratefully and allowed her to lead him back to his seat.


“Will…you need to stay calm. I know that's hard, but Georgiana is going to need your strength.”


“Jane…I'm so worried about her.”


“I know…we all are.”


Will turned to look at Jane and his breath caught in his throat as he saw the unmistakable tenderness in her eyes. Although Jane and Elizabeth looked nothing alike; Jane was light where Elizabeth was dark. Yet sometimes, just a look or a smile would remind him so much her. At these times, he found it hard to look at Jane. So, he turned away from her. Jane squeezed his hand and allowed his mind to wander back into his thoughts.


Finally, a nurse told them Georgiana was out of surgery and Doctor King was requesting to see him in his office.

***

William, Jane, and Charles were led to a small meeting room off the fifth floor. The nurse who brought them there told them that someone would be with them momentarily. Will was not a patient man and spent the next five minutes constantly pacing the length of the room or sitting agitated in his seat incessantly tapping his finger on the table. Finally there was a knock on the door and a woman who looked like she was in her mid-fifties walked in. She extended her hand to the group and introduced herself.


"Hi I'm Hannah Jenkins from family services here at the hospital."


"William Darcy and these are my friends Charles and Jane Bingley. I don't mean to be rude but I thought we were meeting with the doctor."


"You will be, but Dr. King wanted me to speak to you first."


"Oh, right. How is my sister and why haven't we heard anything about her or Brandon.”


"According to Dr. King your sister pulled through surgery and should make a full recovery. I am going to let him fill you in on the details of her recovery. However I do need to speak with you about Mr. Lewis and Anne."


“Anne? Anne was in accident? They are okay, right?"


She frowned sympathetically, "I'm afraid not."


"What? What happened?" asked Jane.


“As you now know, Mrs. Lewis was in a car crash with her husband and daughter." She paused here to let them to take the news slowly, "Unfortunately, Mr. Lewis and Anne did not survive."


Jane let out a gasp of agony and covered her mouth with her hand. Will had buried his face in his hands and let out an anguished, "No, please God, no."


Charles, although just as affected by the news as the others, decided it was his responsibility to question the woman.


"Please Mrs. Jenkins, please tell us what happened."


"Well from what the emergency team was able to gather it appears to have been a deer. Mr. Lewis made an attempt to swerve to miss it, however the car seems to have gone out of control and toppled over. Mr. Lewis did not appear to wearing a seatbelt, and was thrown from the car during the crash. The medical team did everything they could to save him however he died about an hour ago in the operating theatre. He had sustained too many severe injuries. Miss Lewis, because of her small size, appears to have died instantly. I am very sorry for your loss. If there is anything the hospital can do please let us know. When you are ready to see the doctor just let the nurse know."


Mrs. Jenkins decided the family needed some time alone and left them.


William Darcy had not felt so much pain since that horrendous day three years ago, and he cried for the first time since Elizabeth had left him. He thought his world had been quickly swept from beneath him and he was now too weak to attempt to get up again. He felt Jane embrace him and Charles put an arm on his shoulder, both trying to lend their support and love. Jane pulled back and looked him in the face.


"Will, it's going to be okay. We're all going to get her through this, she's strong."


William nodded hopelessly and the threesome sat in reverent silence letting themselves grieve and prepare for the battle they would soon have to face. Several minutes later Will took a few moments to collect himself, and then asked the nurse to get the doctor. He needed to know how his sister was faring.

***

Doctor King was an older gentleman looked like he was about 45 and had a slight grey tinge to his dark hair. His eyes sparkled with knowledge and wisdom. He had a warm countenance which spoke confidence and required respect. He asked them to sit down, and offered them refreshment which all three declined as all they wanted was news about Georgiana.


“Mr. Darcy, are you sure you would rather not have this conversation in private?”


“No Dr. King. Jane and Charles are like my family.”


“Right then. First I would like to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. The surgical team did all they could for Mr. Lewis but we were just too late.”


“Thank you. I do appreciate your concern, but right now I really would like to know about my sister.”


And so Dr. King told them about Georgiana's perilous condition. She had suffered extensive injuries. She had a broken wrist, a sprained ankle, a gash in her abdomen, and a large cut on her forehead. The worst of her injuries were the three broken ribs, and the injury to several of her internal organs, resulting in severe internal bleeding. The first surgery had repaired much of the internal bleeding and her broken wrist but she would require at least three more surgeries to repair all of her damaged internal organs. She had also lost a substantial amount of blood, but they were currently giving her blood transfusions to help.


Dr. King said that he would keep them updated on Georgiana's condition and told them he believed that although her recuperation would be long and difficult, he believed she would eventually fully recover. He felt confident that she would recover fully with physiotherapy and would be able to function normally. He warned them that she would probably be unconscious for several days, possibly even weeks while her body worked to heal itself. Once the doctor was finished with his report, William asked if he could see his sister, and when the answer was affirmative he was immediately up out of his chair and down the hall to see her.

Chapter 2

As he entered Georgiana's room, his eyes were immediately drawn to his beautiful baby sister. His anguish returned as he saw how helpless she looked. Connected to all sorts of machines and covered with bandages made her appear like a child. Because of the drugs she was sedated and sleeping peacefully. He went to her side and immediately took her hand.

“Ana, it's William. I'm here, Sweetheart, please you need to fight this. I need you, Ana. Please fight this for me.”

Georgiana remained unconscious for the next two weeks, and during this time William hardly ever left her side. Charles and Jane had decided that one of them would try to remain with Will in London at all times although one of them needed to stay in Derbyshire with their two children, Isabella and Alexander.

After almost three nights of sleeping in the hospital, Charles had convinced William to go sleep in the condo he had rented. Jane had the impossible task of forcing Will to eat. Even with all of Charles' and Jane's persistence and care, William was hardly gone from the hospital for more than five hours a day.

***

Two weeks after the accident, Georgiana opened her eyes. It was bright, too bright. She tried to look around her but her head was throbbing, so she closed her eyes tightly. She wracked her memories trying to figure out where she was. The last thing she remembered was leaving the restaurant with Brandon and Anne. Finally, she tried to open her eyes again; however, this time she could see a little better. She realized she was in a hospital but was still confused as to how she had gotten there. As she looked around the room, she saw her brother sitting in a chair beside her bed asleep, his head resting on her mattress. She reached out slowly, as it still hurt to move, and rubbed his head fondly. She noticed how he looked around with confusion, but then he moved his gaze upon her and jumped up, excitement filling his eyes.

“Ana! Thank God!”

She attempted to smile, but it came out as a grimace because of the amount of pain she was in from all her injuries. She felt Will gingerly reach out and softly squeeze her hand.

“Do you remember what happened?”

She frowned, attempting to remember, but finally she just shook her head.

“You were in a car accident. You've been in a coma for the last two weeks.”

She couldn't believe what he was telling her. How was that possible? She looked around the room, hoping to find Brandon, knowing that if she had been asleep for that long he would be somewhere near by. She looked at her brother and struggled to find the words she wanted to ask of him. Finally she managed in a rasping whisper, “Brandon?”

She heard Will sigh deeply before answering. “Dearest, Brandon and Anne were in the accident with you.”

Her eyes widened slightly. No, they were all in the accident? She needed to find them. “Where are they?”

When he didn't answer immediately, she felt her heart sink into her stomach. She knew what his next words would be, but she didn't want to hear them.

“They didn't make it.”

“No,” she said in raspy whisper, “not true.”

***

She had started shaking slightly and Will became concerned as she continuously muttered, “It's not true” over and over.

Will was frantic. He began to realize she was having a panic attack and called the nurse. Dr. King was sent for immediately and he came to examine his patient. As the doctor exited the room he looked grim but was ready to share his findings.

“Mr. Darcy.”

“Dr. King, how is she?”

“She appears to be healing. Physically, I'm pleased with her progress but mentally and emotionally…I am concerned because she will not speak to me. She didn't notice my presence and hasn't stopped muttering. I fear I am going to need to call in a psychiatrist to see her.”

“Of course, call anyone you need to.”

Later that day a psychiatrist came and examined Georgiana but his diagnosis was not optimistic. Dr. Brenton was a young man in his thirties with sandy brown hair and blue eyes. He seemed to be very kind and friendly. William had been dozing in the waiting room and was startled when he heard someone calling his name.

“Are you Mr. Darcy?” he asked.

“Yes, that's me,” Darcy replied while shaking the older man's hand.

“I'm Dr. Brenton, the psychiatrist Dr. King wanted to examine Mrs. Lewis.”

“Right, he mentioned that to me. How is she?”

“Unfortunately I am very concerned about her. She is much worse than I had anticipated. She has stopped muttering and is now completely silent and unresponsive. From the little information I have been able to gain from her my best diagnosis is post-traumatic stress disorder. This concerns me because Dr. King tells me that she is going to need at least two more surgeries. Her mental state concerns me because, in order for a patient to recover fully, they have to want to recover. I am also very worried that unless Georgiana feels like she has reason to fight, to live her recovery will be very long and hard for her. Right now Georgiana is lost in her mind, in her grief.”

Will sat down and buried his face in his hands, “What can we do?”

“Well she will need extensive psychotherapy and use medications to help her cope. Counseling will probably be the best option once we can get her to start talking. I can help her; however I don't believe I'd be the right person.”

“Why not?”

“Georgiana needs someone she can trust, someone who can get her to open up. I would recommend that you find a younger psychiatrist preferably a woman or someone who works with young adults. I think a young woman would be able to relate to Georgiana in a way I, or any other male cannot. I believe that bond will benefit your sister.”

“Do you have any recommendations?”

“Several and I would be willing to compile a list for you.”

“Thank you Doctor. I would appreciate that.”

***

Several days later William was poring over a list of recommendations with Dr. Brenton, Dr. King, Jane, and Charles. However, Jane, Charles, and William couldn't come to an agreement about any of the choices. Finally, as they were taking a break, Jane spoke up, “William I know you're probably not going to want to hear this but what about Elizabeth?”

Will's mouth went dry. Neither Jane, nor Charles nor Georgiana had spoken directly to him about Elizabeth in years, so he was confused and angry as to why she might bring her up now.

“What?” he croaked out.

“Who's Elizabeth?” questioned Dr. Brenton.

“She ah…Elizabeth was my wife…we separated some time ago.”

“Dr. Brenton,” Jane began, “Elizabeth is also a children's Grief Counselor with a degree in psychiatry.”

“Ah! Were Elizabeth and Georgiana close?”

Before Darcy could answer, Jane cut in again, “Yes they were. Georgiana actually introduced them to one another. Before everything happened they were best friends. And I think you should know--Elizabeth has also lost a child.”

Dr. Brenton looked up at the ceiling for a moment and then back down to Jane “Do they still keep in contact?”

Darcy started shaking his head no, but Jane surprised him by answering, “Yes. Although naturally they are not as close as they once were, they still chat via phone and email from time to time.”

“What? Why did no one tell me?”

“Will…Georgiana thought it was best that you didn't know.”

“How could she still talk to her? No, Georgiana would never keep in contact with her.”

“Will…”

“Excuse me,” said Dr. Brenton, “I don't mean to get involved in a family matter, and I know this may not be easy, but I feel that you should consider her, Mr. Darcy. If she really is Georgiana's friend that bond would help your sister. If they have a close relationship, that trust might enable Georgiana and may allow her to feel confident enough to open up. Especially if Elizabeth also knows the pain of losing a child; that kind of pain most people cannot even begin to understand. I think you should consider letting her be your sister's doctor.”

“No, absolutely not! Elizabeth cannot come here. Not now! Not ever!”

The five sat in an uncomfortable silence for several moments before Jane looked towards the Doctors and asked in soft voice, “Would you mind giving us a moment?”

“Of course. If you need anything just let the nurse know.”

“Thank you.”

Once the Doctors had exited the room, Will immediately jumped up from his chair and paced across the length of the small conference room.

“Will—” Charles began.

“No! She cannot come here!”

“Will, stop!”

Will stopped mid-stride and looked at his friend with furious eyes.

“Will I don't like this plan anymore than you do, and I know what you would be sacrificing by letting her come here, but your sister is so much more important than anything you can object to. I love her as though she were my own sister, and although this hurts, Will, if Elizabeth can help her, we have to let her try. I won't watch her slip away. We've already lost Brandon and Anne; we can't lose your sister too.”

Will sat down and rubbed his hand furiously up and down his face. Jane went over to him and put her hand on his shoulder “Will, do this for Georgie. Let Elizabeth come and at least see if she can help.”

Groaning in anguish, he let Jane engulf him in her embrace, “I just…I just don't want to have to deal with this.”

Charles put his hand on Will's shoulder and forced him to look up at him, “Will none of us want to deal with this, but we have to. You need to ring her immediately.”

“Me? Why don't you ring her?”

“Because this needs to come from you. She needs to know you would accept her coming.”

The three were silent for several moments before Will shook his head furiously and then said, “I can't do this. I can't see her again.”

“Darce, I know this is going to hurt like hell, but we'll be here for you, alright?”

Darcy shook his head forcefully again and brusquely told Jane and Charles he was going for a walk. He needed to clear his head.

***

As soon as the conference door shut behind Will, Jane turned to Charles and asked if he thought she was right in mentioning Elizabeth.

“I don't know, dearest.”

“I know it was risky, but none of the other candidates were suitable and you know Elizabeth is wonderful at her job.”

“Although I agree your sister is the best choice for Georgiana, this is going to kill him.”

“I know it won't be easy for either of them to see each other again. I can't imagine bringing her back here, but what else can we do?”

“Do you think Elizabeth would even come?”

“I know it may not seem like it, but Elizabeth is fiercely loyal, and Georgiana was one of her best friends. Right now she's still licking her wounds and being unpardonably stubborn. If Will calls her, she may not like it, but she won't be able to refuse him.”

“Well, then we need to find a way to convince Will that this is the best decision. Georgiana needs someone to help her through this, and if that person is Elizabeth then, well, as much as I hate it, we have to help him accept that.”

“I agree; now how do we convince him ?”

***

When Will had left Dr. King's office, he immediately had made his way to the hospital courtyard. The air inside the hospital felt like it was suffocating him. The fresh air and a couple of deep breaths were exactly what he needed to clear his head. He was furious with Jane. What was she thinking? How could he possibly ask his…his estranged wife to come home and nurse his sister? And what was his sister thinking staying in contact with Elizabeth? Elizabeth had betrayed him; Georgiana knew that…how could she ever forgive her? It was crazy, ridiculous. No! I will not consider this…I can't do this. Will continued to pace up and down the courtyard shaking his head and muttering furiously. He let out a sigh of frustration.

Deep down he knew Elizabeth was the best person for the job and actually thought of her even before Jane had brought her up but he had never truly considered it as a viable option. How did they expect him to be able to ring her and ask for a favor after all that had happened? No, he couldn't do it…he wouldn't.

***

After taking several, calming deep breaths, Will went back into the hospital and headed for his sister's room. Knocking at the door he hoped to hear Georgiana tell him to enter, but no sound was forthcoming. Her room was brightly filled with lilies, her favorite flowers, in all different colors. Will had wanted to make sure that even if she weren't aware of her surroundings, that she would be comfortable. Tears began to stream down his face as he looked at his sister. She was so helpless--completely unresponsive--so utterly lost in her own grief.

That look terrified him, because he had seen it in Elizabeth after she had lost the baby. Although she had healed, physically, that look was always there in her eyes. What scared him the most was that a year later she had left him. He knew that no matter how much he wanted to be able to help his sister, how much he understood grief, he did not know how to communicate with her.

He walked to the window and looked out at the bustle of London. It seemed strange to him that people still existed outside when his life had been consumed in this hospital for the last several weeks. He sat down in the chair facing Georgiana's bed, let out a deep breath, and leaned his head back against the wall. He stared at his beloved sister knowing what he needed to do, but failing to find the courage to do it. Getting up and pacing the room helped him strengthen his resolve and he noticed his sister watching him. He smiled at her and kissed her forehead before exiting the room.

***

As he reentered Dr. King's office, he saw Jane and Charles in deep conversation. He cleared his throat and looked at the expectant faces.

“Jane and Charles, I would like to apologize for earlier.”

“Oh Will! It's not necessary. We both know this has you very stressed,” said Jane reassuringly.

“That doesn't excuse my behavior, and I see the wisdom in your advice. I'll need your help because if Elizabeth comes here I know I can't deal with this alone.”

“You won't have to Darce. Jane and I are here for you anytime.”

Will nodded and took a deep breath, “Jane, do you know Elizabeth's number?”

“Well it's about 9 am in California. I would think it would be best to try to reach her at the office.”

Will nodded again and pressed the send button. He gulped and took several deep breaths. The phone rang several times before he heard the other end pick up.

“Elizabeth Bennett's office how may I help you?”

Chapter 3

“Elizabeth Bennet's office. How may I help you?”

Darcy took a deep breath before answering. “Yes, may I please speak to Elizabeth Bennet?”

“Yes, hold one moment please.”

Darcy took another deep breath and let it out slowly.

“Sir, may I inquire who's calling?”

“Yes. It's William Darcy. Tell her it's an emergency.”

“Yes sir.”

Soft piano music floated into the speakers as he waited for Elizabeth. He seemed to be put on hold for hours when he heard that unmistakable southern accent, “Will?”

Darcy felt faint, however he took a deep breath and replied, “Yes. It's me.”

The phone went silent as each tried to pull their thoughts together.

“Will, Charlotte said it was an emergency? Is everything okay?”

“I…ah…I,” he fought to compose himself, “It's Ana.”

“What? Is she okay?”

“She was in an accident. She'll live but…I…she needs you. Please come.”

The phone again went silent until he heard a deep exhale from the other side of the phone, “Will, I…just…I don't know.”

“Beth, please. I know it's asking a lot, but she needs you. You were her best friend. Beth, Brandon and Anne died in the accident. She just needs to see you.”

“They died? God, Will. Brandon and Anne are dead?”

“Yes,” he croaked.

Again he heard her take a deep breath before saying, “Okay, Will, I'll come. I'll take the first flight tomorrow. Give her a kiss for me.”

Will hung up in disbelief. Elizabeth, his Elizabeth was coming home.



***



Elizabeth Bennet exhaled deeply as she hung up the phone. She leaned her head forward on her desk thinking about what she had just agreed to. She was going back to England, back to people and places she hadn't seen in three years.

It was the day after she left her home with Will and fled to her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner's. She heard the doorbell ring and knew it was him. When he entered, he looked like hell. His eyes were blood-shot, his face was very pale, and he hadn't shaved. She sighed and then heard his voice cracking pain, “We need to talk, Beth.”

“I have nothing to say Will.”

“Really?”

“Yes I said all I wanted to in the letter.”

“So I don't get an explanation of why you left you me. I'm just supposed to sit back and accept it.”

She hadn't wanted to give him reasons. She just wanted him to leave her alone. So she decided she would have to be cruel.

“Do you really need explanation? Are you that dense?”

“Maybe I am, but I won't leave until you explain. Please just tell me why?”

“Fine. You want to know why? Because, Will, these last several months have been horrible. Ever since I lost our baby, we've been drifting apart.”

“Beth, if this about grief, I've been grieving to. You're not the only one, Beth. If you'd just let me help you. Beth, please come back with me. I need you just as much you need me.

“You need me? Really…that's funny.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Well for starters, I barely ever see you. We don't talk, you're always working, and you always seem to be leaving on business trips.”

“Beth, the business trips are over now. I want to explain about all that. You see, Wickham—”

She interrupted him. “So you're claiming this has to do with Wickham? So every time we have relationship problems it's going to be Wickham's fault? No Will, this is about us—you and me—no one else.”

“I know, but please let me explain about why I have been gone so much.”

“I already know, Will, and it disgusts me. How could you?”

“What?”

She threw an envelope at him. He unfastened it and saw pictures of himself with another woman. They were eating, laughing, and in one he was embracing the woman. Then there were others of him standing outside the same woman's door with his shirt off.

“Beth…this isn't…I'm not. You actually believe me capable of this?”

“I didn't, but the pictures prove everything.”

“So you had me followed?”

“No, actually those were sent to me! You know I can't believe I was so foolish. I thought I knew you, but I don't at all. You're selfish, rude, arrogant, and insulting—you're just the man I thought you were when we met. I was an idiot to ever believe that our love would be enough for you. I mean really, Will, did you need her to provide you with the heir I couldn't?”

Darcy was furious that she actually believed that, but none the less the statement hit him like a ton of bricks. He saw the anger and resentment in her eyes and realized that, no matter what he said, he couldn't change her mind.

“Well I'm sorry that I have sunk so low in your opinion. I'm not giving up, Beth. I love you. I will find a way to fix this.”

***


Beth felt horrible for the words she said that day. She knew her words had been wrong and that she had cut him deeply. It had been a lot for him to open himself up to someone, and she had betrayed his trust and love, but she was hurt and so she lashed back. Yet, no matter how bad she felt, she could not bring herself to apologize when she still felt that he was the one who was in the wrong.

She heard Charlotte enter her office. “Beth? You okay?”

“Yeah,” she croaked.

“Who was that?”

“My husband.”

“Your…husband…but...what...”

“We're separated. Listen, Charlotte, I need you to book me the next flight to London.”

“Whoa, wait! You're going to need to explain a few things to me.”

“Charlotte not now…” She rubbed her temple trying to brush away her oncoming headache.

“Yes, Beth, we need to talk about this right now. You're my best friend, and you don't tell me that you're married.”

Beth sighed and motioned for Charlotte to sit down.

“Charlotte, it's complicated. We're still legally married, but that's only because I never had the guts to send him the divorce papers.

“So you still love him?”

“No…I mean I don't know… Why are you asking me that?”

“We'll you've been estranged from your husband for three years, have only gone on one date in that entire time, and have yet to divorce him. I'd say you'd have to care something about him.”

“I do care about him. He was such a big part of my life for so long. You just can't forget someone like that.”

“How did you meet?”

“What?”

“I want the full story of your courtship, your marriage, and your estrangement. I think I deserve it.”

“It's a long story, Char.” She mechanically shuffled the papers on her desk.

“And we have plenty of time; you have no more patients for the rest of the day.”

Beth sighed. “Fine, you want the story of Elizabeth and William Darcy—here it goes.”

“I met Georgiana Darcy when I was sixteen years old. I always wanted to travel and study abroad, so I decided to participate in an international summer camp. I worked all year at a job at the coffee shop in town and finally saved up enough money to go. So the summer before my junior year, I went with a group of twenty other teens on a travel tour of Italy. That summer I met Georgiana; and, even though she was two years younger than me, we became fast friends. We were roommates during the trip and were constantly spending all of our time together. After the summer ended, we stayed in contact, and the next summer we both went on a travel trip—to Greece this time. Because of my grades in high school and money set aside for college education, I applied for colleges abroad. I was accepted to Cambridge University. I immediately wrote to Georgiana to tell her that I would be moving to England. She was ecstatic and told me that her brother also attended Cambridge. During the summers she was constantly talking about her brother and had shown me pictures of him. Honestly, I've never seen a more beautiful man. So, when she told me her brother was at Cambridge and that she wanted us to meet, I'll admit I was really eager to meet this man she was always talking so highly about.”

“The week I was supposed to go on a `date' with him, Jane came to visit. I wanted to be a good hostess, so I took her to a party at a friend's dorm. Incidentally I met Will Darcy that night. You see the party was at Charles Bingley's dorm and he's Will's best friend. So Charles also met Jane that night and was instantly charmed.”

“Wait…wait… Your sister and you both met your future husbands on the same night? That's so weird.”

“You said you wanted to hear this story—stop interrupting.”

“Sorry!”

“Anyway where was I? Oh right, the party. I instantly knew who he was and had planned to go introduce myself, but that's when I heard his ill-fated remark. Charles told him to ask me to dance and he told Charles that, although I was okay, he needed a prettier girl to tempt him to dance. Then he told Charles that he should be careful of Jane because he didn't want him to fall prey to a girl only after his money.”

“No way! He said that? And he later asked you to marry him?”

“I told you to stop interrupting,” she said as she threw a piece of crinkled paper at her friend.

“So I was angry and hurt that this guy I heard so many great things about turned out be a prick. However, I kept my promise to Georgiana and met him for lunch the next Saturday. He, of course, didn't remember me, so I planned on getting payback. Over the next several weeks I was thrown into Will's company constantly. I later learned he had been falling in love with me. So when he asked me to pursue a relationship with him, I threw it back in his face. However, Will is not a man to be deterred, and he apologized for being so rude that first night. He told me he had recently broken up with a girl who had only dated him for his money, and that he no longer felt I wasn't pretty—he told me I was beautiful. I didn't see him again until Georgiana came that next fall. We all hung out all the time, so Will and I sort of formed a friendship. I guess you could say we became best friends; and, although Will never pressured me to push our relationship to anything more than platonic, I began to want more myself.

So during my junior year of college, I knew I had to make a move. Finally, one day I got my wish because Georgiana mentioned that she thought her brother was still in love with me and that I just needed to encourage him a little. So the next thing I know I'm driving to his office. I barged in without even knocking. To say he was surprised would be an understatement; I went straight over to him, sat on his lap, and began kissing him.”

Here she paused and Charlotte started laughing, “You just walked into his office and started making out with him?”

Elizabeth began to laugh at the memory, “Yeah I did. Hey, don't look at me like that. I was young and in love.” She shook her head slightly. “Charlotte, he was so cute. He pulled away from me and looked at me with this adorable, puzzled expression. He asked me what I was doing, and I told him I couldn't help myself, that I wanted him. His face lit up with this smug smile that I, of course, had to kiss away.”

Here Charlotte smiled. “Aw…he was your first love.”

Elizabeth smiled too. “Yeah, he was…”

“So what does this Mr. Dreamy look like?”

“Oh, gorgeous of course. I mean, honestly, I don't think I've ever seen a man quite so beautiful as him.”

“And you let Mr. Dreamy go? What happened?”

“I don't know… I mean after that day in the office we were together all the time and we married a little over a year later. I was only twenty-one at the time but he allowed me to continue with school and we were so happy. On his twenty-sixth birthday, two years after we got married, I told him I was pregnant. I was so excited. I had always wanted to be a mom, and Will loved children, so I was glad I could make him so happy.” Elizabeth stopped and looked down at her lap.

“Beth? What happened?”

“I…I…was so stupid Charlotte. The doctors had told me I had a high risk pregnancy and had warned me against putting too much stress on myself, but I didn't listen. I just kept telling them my patients were too important to toss aside; and, since I was going on an extended maternity leave, I would need to be there as much as I could until I gave birth. But all that stress finally got to me, and I went into pre-term labor. My little boy didn't make it, he was just too small.” She heard Charlotte gasp but kept her eyes on her feet. “There were complications with the birth, and I can't have any more children.”

“No… I'm so sorry,” Charlotte said reaching across the table and grasping Elizabeth's hand.

“Its fine. I don't really want to talk about it.” She took a deep breath and continued, “Anyways back to the story; so after that we both drifted apart. He became consumed by work, and I was left alone to deal with my grief. I didn't allow him to comfort me; I pulled away from him. Less than a year later, his aunt sent me a letter telling me…well basically she told me she knew I was never good enough for her nephew and that because of me the illustrious Darcy line would never be able to continue. She also wrote that he had found a proper woman to do the one thing I couldn't. She sent all that along with some pictures of him with another woman. I just couldn't deal with any more. So I left, he followed, we got into a huge argument, and we haven't spoken since.”

“So he cheated on you?”

“I don't know. I mean in reality I know Will Darcy would never cheat on me, but at the time I felt like I had all the proof I needed. Listen, regardless of whether I believed it or not, I didn't trust him.”

“And now he calls you out of the blue and you're just going to run back there?”

“Georgiana was in a car accident; he said she needs me.”

“Beth, are you sure about this?”

“No, but I can't let her down. She's my friend and she needs me. Period. End of story. I have to go.”

“Okay… I'll book you a flight.”

Beth nodded as Charlotte left her office; she opened up the top drawer and looked the picture she kept tucked away in the back of her desk. It was of Jane, Charles, Georgiana, Brandon, Will, and herself. It had been taken three months after Georgiana's marriage to Brandon, and they had all gone skiing for the weekend. She used her finger to trace the outline of Will's face. She sighed and shook her head. She was going home; she was going back to Will.



Chapter 4:

Elizabeth sat staring at the picture from the ski lodge for well over an hour, lost in her thoughts, wondering if she was doing the right thing. However it only took one look at the happiness written on Georgie's and Brandon's faces to realize how much her friend would need her.

She stared back down at the picture from the ski-lodge… Had that only been five years ago? She remembered that day like it was yesterday. It was the day she had told Will she was pregnant.

***

Five years earlier on vacation in Switzerland

In Elizabeth's opinion Switzerland was a beautiful country. Will had brought the couples—Jane and Charles, Georgiana and Brandon, and themselves—to Klosters, Switzerland to stay in a beautiful chalet.

She sighed deeply and looked at the breathtaking scene around her. She had never seen so much natural beauty. As she looked out from the balcony of their room she could see the mountain covered with white powder. The Chalet itself was incredible. Will had spared no expense on this trip, and she could tell. She smiled as she looked up at the handsome building, thinking what a lovely place her husband had found for them.

The Chalet Eugenia was a four-story, tall, beautiful, wooden house, and the snow that covered the roof made it look like something from a travel book. She still was amazed it housed a staff of six; but, when you're the wife of William Darcy, things like this become more normal.

She felt warm hands slip around her, and she leaned into his muscular chest with a sign of contentment.

“Do you like it?” he asked, his voice no more than a whisper.

“Do I like it?” she replied as she slowly turned in his hands. “This place is amazing, Will. I'm glad we came here to celebrate your birthday.”

“Me too,” he said pulling his wife closer. “You know what I love most about our room?”

“No idea.”

“It's the only one on this side of the Chalet. I purposely placed Jane and Georgiana on the other side, so we would be entirely secluded.”

She raised an eyebrow at him. “Really? Whatever for?”

“I could probably think of a few things,” he said as he leaned down to kiss her.

She indulged him for a few minutes before pulling away. She laughed at the petulant expression on his face.

“Later Will…we have to get ready for dinner.”

“Let's just forget dinner and stay here,” he said pulling her back towards himself and kissing her again.

“Will… (kiss) please (kiss) we (kiss) are (kiss) hosting our friends (kiss).”

She heard him sigh reluctantly and released her. She smiled, knowing that they would have even more to celebrate later.

***

That evening after every one had retired, Will and Beth sat on the window seat looking out at the beautiful night sky. Will had been telling her about the different constellations, but she wasn't listening. She kept imagining what it would be like when they were a family, what his expression would look like when she finally told him. She was so happy she could have almost burst.

“Elizabeth, although these are interesting stories I would not think they bring such an expression of happiness to your face. Please tell me what has made you so happy?”

“I…I…cannot tell.”

“Why not?”

“Because it is your birthday gift, and your birthday is tomorrow.”

“Wrong. My birthday is today. It's 12:10. Please tell me…”

Elizabeth knew she had to tell him. The expression on his face was just too adorable; she couldn't wait any longer.

“You know I went to see the doctor a couple days ago.”

“Yes…you are all right aren't you? This is a gift?”

“The most extraordinary gift I could ever give you.”

He looked at her still puzzled. “Elizabeth, I'm not very good at guessing.”

“One second,” she said as she climbed off the seat and went towards the closet. She found the package she was looking for and on her way back sat it in his lap.

“What this?”

“Open it. It's a clue.”

“A clue?” he asked as he carefully unwrapped the package. When he had it opened he looked at the tiny shoes and then looked back up at his wife sharply.

“Does this mean?”

Elizabeth nodded, tears of joy rolling down her face.

“I'm going to be a father?”

“Yes! We're going to have a baby!”

Will was so overjoyed he picked her up and twirled her around the bedroom. Both of them were laughing, crying, and grinning stupidly.

Yes, that day in Switzerland had been wonderful, perfect bliss. If only they had known the darkness that loomed on the horizon.

***


Sighing sadly, Elizabeth placed the picture back in her bottom drawer. She wished she could find that kind of happiness again, but she felt that maybe the kind of happiness they had that day only came once in a lifetime.

Elizabeth was driving through the streets of San Diego thinking about how much her life had changed over the last three years. San Diego at sunset was amazing; and, although she liked the city life, it was nothing to the one in Derbyshire. She remembered sitting out in the back garden just watching the sun slowly sink down behind the trees.


Her condo was not grand, but it was comfortable. Since Elizabeth had never legally divorced William, she had received no money when they separated; and, because her family was not well off when she had gone back to them, they didn't have much to offer her. However, she had always been her father's favorite daughter, and he had wanted to do something to help. So he cashed in the bonds he had been saving for his retirement and gave them to Elizabeth. At first she hadn't accepted his offer; but eventually, when home life became too taxing, she had taken the money he offered with a promise to pay him back eventually with interest. When she left her parents home in Mississippi, she hadn't known where to go. Besides England, she had never lived anywhere else.


It had felt so strange to live without Will because all of her adult life had been spent with him. She felt as though a piece of herself was missing without him. She had fallen in love with him when she was nineteen and had never lived on her own, never truly been in a relationship with anyone else, never been in love with anyone else, and Will had been the first and only man to ever make love to her.


People had tried to warn her she was too young to get married, but she had brushed them off, thinking they knew nothing about the type of love she had for Will. But four years later as she packed her bags, she realized they had been right. She had been too young, too naïve, and too love-struck to realize the magnitude of the commitment she had made.


Elizabeth had never been prone to failure and had never allowed herself to fail at anything. In her mind her first real failure came at the age of twenty-four when she had lost her little boy. She put all the blame upon her own shoulders, even though Will had tried to tell her it wasn't her fault. She knew she had failed herself, Will, and most of all her little boy. The grief of losing her child and the pain of realizing her own limitations had caused a change in her.


When she had seen her marriage crumbling around her, she just gave up. She had lost the will to fight. The week before she had left Will, she came to the realization that she had lost herself in her grief. When she looked in the mirror, she no longer recognized the girl staring back at her; she no longer saw Elizabeth Darcy or even Elizabeth Bennet. Her pain had turned her into a completely different individual, one who numbed every feeling and shut out every person.


When the pictures of Will with that woman had shown up on her doorstep, she had felt betrayed and saddened. Not because she believed Will would ever cheat on her, but because that he could still laugh and smile when she could feel nothing. She started feeling resentment towards his ability to grieve and move on. As she had looked at the pictures, she finally understood the great chasm that was now between them. She knew the only way to bridge that gap would be to let him in—to trust him with everything she was. But Elizabeth couldn't do it. So she had left because she knew that until she found herself, she couldn't be with Will.


When Will had come after her, she had been furious because just seeing him so pained had made her want to quit her resolve and throw herself back into his arms. So she put up a shield of cruelty to protect herself and threw all her hurt feelings back in his face.

The day she moved to San Diego she had stood on the beach with her toes in the water and pledged to herself that she would never cause another person such pain again. So when Will had started emailing her and calling her, she had tried to ignore it and just deleted them. Then a month later, her father sent her a bundle of letters. Will had sent them to her father's house, knowing that they would somehow reach her.


Elizabeth had acted impulsively when she had first seen the letters. She picked up her phone to call him and tell him she still loved him. However, as soon as she had heard his voice she had hung up, remembering her pledge. She still wasn't ready to trust him—to trust anyone. She had tried to burn the letters, but she couldn't, so she had simply stuck them in a box and put them in the attic. Elizabeth believed that if she refused to deal with a problem, it would eventually go away; and, when his letters, emails, and phone calls stopped coming, she sadly realized that Will had finally given up.


That night as she lay in bed, she tried to think of anything but him. She wasn't sure how she would feel once she saw him again. Her life had changed so much over the last three years. In her mind she thought that even if she still wanted to try to make things work again it wouldn't matter because he probably hated her. And to be honest she couldn't blame him because she hated herself for hurting him. Although she still cared about him she wasn't sure if it was love. She wasn't sure if they could overcome all the obstacles that had been put before them, and she wasn't even sure if there relationship was worth fixing now.


Wiping her damp cheeks with the back of her hand she tried not to think of Will and the mistakes she had made. Instead she tried to focus on Georgiana, but somehow, every time she closed her eyes, he was there.

Chapter 5


“Flight 122 from San Diego, California to London, England has now arrived at the gate. Please make sure you have all your belongings and thank you for flying with Delta.”

Elizabeth had spent most the flight back to England trying not to think of Will. She tried to focus on Georgiana but her thoughts would drift to her brother and she could think of nothing else. She tapped her fingers on the arm rest and cursing Charlotte for booking her on a morning flight—she needed a drink.

She walked through the terminal and down to baggage claim. She grabbed her bag and began to look around for her sister. She was excited about seeing Jane. It had been almost four years since she'd seen her in person. Their relationship had really taken a hit when she walked away from William, and although it hurt she knew this was the only time Jane had been disappointed with her choice. She had forbidden Jane from ever mentioning William, but in her heart she always hoped Jane would slip up and say something about him. She remembered one night on the phone Jane had lit into her--letting her know exactly the kind of pain she had inflicted on William. Although Elizabeth knew she had been a coward and extremely selfish, it was hard hearing it from her own sister.

“Beth!”

Elizabeth whirled around to see her beloved elder sister standing with tears in her eyes and her arms stretched out. Elizabeth dropped her bag and ran to her sister. They cried in each other's arms and hugged tightly. When Beth finally pulled back she saw Charles standing a little behind Jane, holding the bag she had dropped. Charles looked at her with a sad smile and nodded his head in her direction.

“Good to see you, Beth.”

“You too, Charlie,” she said sadly. It hurt that her relationship with Charles had become so strained but she didn't blame him. He was Will's best friend and she deserved the cold shoulder.

She turned back to Jane, “How's Georgiana?”

“She's not good. Physically she is improving, but mentally—the doctors are very worried about her. They diagnosed her with post-traumatic stress disorder.”

Understanding the implications of Jane words tears welled up in Elizabeth eyes, “Can we go to her? I want to see her.”

“Of course. Let's get out of here.”

***

The ride to the hospital was torture for Elizabeth. Each passing minute brought her closer and closer to Will. She was so nervous about seeing him again, and she didn't know what to think about Georgiana. The moment Jane had told her about the doctor's diagnosis her professionalism had kicked in and she had instantly thought of treatment options that she would try. Her mind again drifted to Will and she wondered how he was handling every thing. She shook her head and realized that Georgiana needed her to help her get through this, and she could not let her relationship with Will get in the way of that.

They parked the car and headed towards the cafeteria where they had planned on meeting Will for lunch before seeing Georgiana. As she entered the cafeteria, she immediately scanned the room for him. When he saw him she let out an audible gasp, and thankfully Jane and Charles had already been moving towards the table and didn't hear her.

Will was sitting in a corner slowly stirring his coffee. He was still devastatingly handsome. His face was unshaven however it didn't diminish his appearance instead it made him undeniably sexy. He was wearing blue jeans and a dark hunter green polo shirt that brought out his deep green eyes.

As she cautiously approached the table she stopped and studied him for a moment, and if she hadn't known him as well as she did she would have missed the exhaustion he hid so well. Her natural instinct was to wrap her arms around him and take him home to force him to rest, but then she reminded herself that it was no longer her job to take care of him. And she didn't want to take care of him—did she?

She continued to the table and stood behind the chair directly facing him. Noticing that Jane and Charles had already sat down, she decided to wait until Will looked at her. She waited several long moments before he finally lifted his gaze to her face, and she could tell he was purposely avoiding her eyes.

Breathing in and then exhaling deeply she wondered what would be the best way to greet him. Finally she decided it would be safest to just offer her hand. So she smiled slightly and held out her hand. “William.”

***

Will, at first, was slightly taken aback by her formality. He missed seeing her easy smile in greeting and how she used to give him a quick peck on the cheek. However, he realized any other type of greeting would be awkward. So hesitantly he shook her offered hand and murmured a polite, “Elizabeth”.

The sensation he had felt when he touch her again infuriated him. He despised the fact that she had such power. So unsuccessfully he attempted to listen to the conversation that Jane and Charles had begun but he was too consumed by Elizabeth's presence. She was still beautiful and he secretly resented her for it. He had hoped she would now look coarse and old, but he knew that was absurd as she was only twenty-eight. Instead of the time passing hurting her appearance the last three years had given her an air of maturity. Her long ringlet curls were now cut to her shoulders and straightened. William had tried to avoid her eyes for as long as possibly but finally he raised his gaze to hers and realized she had been studying him as well. Her fine, hazel eyes glittered with nervousness and she was tapping her fingers lightly against the table.

Finally after studying her for several long moments, he let his gaze fall back to the table and thought back on the last couple tormenting days. He had stayed awake most of the night pacing back and forth in his bedroom, contemplating the last three years. He thought about his anger and frustration. How he had hated her after she left, after her hurtful words, but hating Elizabeth wasn't easy for him. In fact, hating her was impossible because she was a part of his soul. He tried to stay angry with her, to continue hate her, but all he could feel was anguished and hurt. It frustrated him that one woman had the power to turn the confident, self-assured William Darcy into such despair.

Elizabeth had been his life for so long, that when she left it had been torn apart. As he looked at the woman across the table he tried to figure out where everything had gone so horribly wrong between them. So enthralled was the pair with each other that they hardly noticed when Jane and Charles had left to go get lunch. Darcy was sure he wouldn't have noticed at all had Elizabeth not cleared her throat lightly. He looked up at her face and saw the apprehension in her eyes and decided the no matter his own feelings, he needed to make her feel welcome so she would help Georgiana.

“It looks like we've been deserted,” he said smiling slightly.

“Yes, I think they went to go get sandwiches.”

“Right.”

They sat in silence for several moments for several moments before Darcy spoke again, “Elizabeth, you know I hate small talk. Would you mind if we just cut the formalities and talked about my sister?”

Darcy noticed Elizabeth eyes widen a little before she quietly replied, “Yes I think that would be best.”

***

Elizabeth was glad he had decided to talk about Georgiana. Small talk between them would be awkward. She patiently waited for him to begin his tale.

“Thank you. Well I guess I should give you the full story. Georgiana was in a car accident with Brandon and Anne,” she heard him pause and his voice catch slightly. Instinctively she reached for his hand and squeezed it reassuringly and her gesture emboldened him to continue, “Anne was killed instantly and Brandon died later in the operating theater.”

As he paused again, Elizabeth took everything in. She couldn't believe something so terrible had happened. She remembered her own grief after losing a little boy she had never met; she couldn't imagine the pain of spending years with a child and then losing them. It horrified her to think about the pain one must feel to lose one's husband and child at the same time. She thought she couldn't imagine that kind pain yet a tiny voice inside her told her that she did. She felt tears welling up in her eyes but she forced herself to concentrate on Georgiana—her own pain didn't matter.

She looked back up at Will surprised that he actually looked a little annoyed and thinking it was because of her hand having remained in his pulled it away abruptly.

***

Will felt the loss of Elizabeth's hand acutely and almost reached for it again but decided against it. He was frustrated with her. When he had told her about Brandon and Anne he had expected her to cry, to show some sign of emotion but she had just sat there cold as stone. He was angry with her that in the last three years she made no attempt to deal with her own grief—that she was still hiding all her emotions.

He shook his head slightly, decided his attention needed to be on Georgiana at the moment, and continued his story. “She has received several extensive surgeries however the doctors are afraid that she lost the will to live. She hasn't spoken since she woke up a week ago and heard about Brandon and Anne.”

Elizabeth sat in silent contemplation for several moments before looking back at William, “What is the doctor's treatment recommendation?”

“He suggested psychotherapy, several medications, and most of all counseling. He believes she needs to talk about it, but doesn't think she'll open up to him. He thinks she needs someone she can trust.”

“Yes, I agree. Most patients recover better if they trust their doctor. Do you think she will be able to trust her current doctor?”

William took a deep breath knowing this next part would be especially hard to get out, “Jane, Charles, and I have talked about it and we think…I think that you would be the best person to treat her.”

Although Elizabeth had expected that she would be there to help Georgiana she was shocked that Will was formally asking her to be Georgiana's doctor. As she took it all in she shook her head slowly, “I can't treat Georgiana. Although I am psychiatrist you know I work mainly with children and teens.”

“I know, but Dr. Brenton believes that doesn't matter. He believes your work with children might actually help her. She needs someone who will be patient with her, someone she cares about and who she can trust.”

“I don't know, Will. Do you understand what this would mean? I would need to move here for an extensive period of time—a month at least. I want to help her, but surely there is someone else?”

“No, you're the best option.”

“Will, I've been successful with my practice but moving back here...? Finding a place to live in Lambton for a month will be expensive.”

“I will pay you whatever you need.”

“I won't accept your money, Will. I would do this because I care about her.”

He nodded his head. They both sat in silence for several moments before a solution came to Will's mind. Immediately he had dismissed it as absurd, but the more he thought about it the more sense it made. Finally he swallowed his pride and quietly added, “What if you stayed in the guest suite?”

“Are…are…you serious? You'd want me to stay at your house?”

`No that's the last thing I want,' he thought. In fact, he hated the idea that he would be constantly thrown in her presence if she stayed in the suite. He knew it would be horribly painful to have to see her very day. So Will let his anger get the better of him and he replied with more bitterness than he had intended.

“I would do anything for my sister. Even though I might find it extremely distasteful.”

Elizabeth frowned and replied sarcastically, “Well I wouldn't want you to do anything that you find distasteful.” She had meant to end her comment there however her tongue got the better of her and she added, “I wouldn't want to mess up your social calendar though. I mean I'm sure your dates would love to hear that your estranged wife is living with you again.”

Will intense gaze studied her for a moment before he said, “Georgiana is my top priority for the moment and I don't think I'll be having too many dates over.”

In reality Will hadn't been on a real date in since Elizabeth. He had taken acquaintances to parties, simply as escorts but he had not been out with another woman. Technically, he was still married to Elizabeth and even though they were separated, he felt that going on a date would be like being unfaithful to her. However, then he thought about her going out on dates and it made his blood boil. Not that he didn't want Elizabeth to be happy, he just couldn't stand the thought that it was another man's doing.

Will realized though that this was not the time to bring up her love life and definitely not the time to insult her. He needed to get to conversation back on track, “Beth. Although it might not be the ideal situation I truly think you living in the house would be the best for all of us. I'm just very concerned about my sister and I'm not thinking straight. Will you consider being Ana's doctor?”

Elizabeth stared at him for several moments, “I'll think about it.”

Will nodded his acceptance and they both looked up to see Jane and Charles approaching their table with their sandwiches. They all ate a quiet lunch none of them knowing an appropriate topic of conversation. When Will finished and cordially asked Elizabeth to join him in visiting Georgiana, Jane and Charles both breathed a sigh of relief.

***

Jane waited until they had slipped past the door before turning to Charles and saying, “At least they didn't yell at each other”

Charles smiled slightly, “I will have to admit that I never thought a lunch between the four of us could be quite so uncomfortable.”

“Nor I. Charles, why do they both have to be so stubborn? I don't understand why they fight the connection between them so much.”

“Well, you said it. They're both extremely stubborn and hurt. Those two things make a lethal combination. When people are angry and hurt it doesn't make a difference how much they love each other if they're not willing to try and work it out.”

“What kills me is that he was willing. She just wouldn't stop running long enough to hear him out.”

“Did you ever find out why she left?”

“No, she still hasn't told me. I know that it has to do with the baby but I feel like that it was more than that.”

“Yes, from what little Will told me I gathered it was much more than that.”

“Do you think that this may be their second chance?”

“I have no idea. I wish it was because they were so good together, but they have so much to work through.”

“Do you think he still loves her?”

“Without a doubt—he may try and fight it because it hurts too much to love her, but in his heart, he does. What about Beth's feelings?”

“She may not admit it but I think she does.”

“Do you think she'll stay for Georgiana?”

“Yeah, she won't be able to leave her.”

Charles stared at Jane and smiled sweetly at her before giving her a lingering kiss on her lips.

“Charles, what was that for?”

He shrugged, “Jane, promise me that you'll never let what happen to them happen to us. That you'll fight for us, and you'll never give up on me.”

Jane smiled slightly and then leaned over as kissed him. Her kiss was a little more passionate but she quickly pulled away and snuggled in his tight embrace.

“Charles, I love you and will fight for us until the day I die. I'll never give up on you.

***

Beth entered into Georgiana's room closely followed by Will. Tears welled up in her eyes at the sight of her friend hooked to all those tubes and machines. Elizabeth hated hospitals. Every time she entered one, she got that same cold, desolate feeling in the pit of her stomach. All hospitals reminded her of that horrible day. She shook her head trying to keep all her fears and emotions from pouring out while Will stepped in front of her and took Georgiana's hand. “Ana? Look who's here.”

Georgiana didn't move her head and kept her steadfast gaze out the window. Will motioned for her to go around to other side, so she took a deep breath and called out to her, “Georgie? It's me darlin', Elizabeth.”
This time Georgiana slowly turned her head away from the window, looked Elizabeth up and down before turning her gaze back to the window.

“Georgie? How are you feeling?” No answer. So Elizabeth walked over to the other side of the bed and took Georgiana's hand and squeezed it.

“Darlin', please, say something.”

No answer came again, but this time Georgiana did squeeze her hand a little bit.
Elizabeth smiled, “Aw...Georgie, if I could fix this for you I would.” Elizabeth kissed her forehead and looked at Will.

“Will…”

Will held up his hand and motioned for her to follow him back into the hallway.

“Please, Beth say you'll help her.”

“I…I…Well before I decide anything I would like to talk to the doctor. Would that be possible to arrange?”

“Of course. The psychiatrist is named Dr. Brenton and I'm sure that Dr. King would like to talk to you as well.”

***

“Dr. Brenton, Dr. King I would like to introduce you to my…um…I mean…Dr. Elizabeth Bennet.”

Elizabeth tried to cover Will's embarrassment by recovering quickly, “Dr. Brenton, Dr. King, it is a pleasure to meet you.”

“Dr. Bennet, a pleasure as well. Won't you take a seat?”

“Thank you, Dr. King.”

“Dr. Bennet, Mr. Darcy told us you would like to talk to us. He also indicated you would consider being Mrs. Lewis's psychiatrist.
.
“Well, my specialization is in psychiatry however I'm mainly a children specialist. I would like to help her I am not convinced I would be the best person.”

“Why ever not? From what I understand you were, at one time, very good friends with the patient. I believe she needs a friend, someone she can trust. How do you not fit that requirement?”
Elizabeth gave a side-long glance at Will before answering, “Doctor, Georgie and I are still friends, but we are nowhere near as close as we once were. You see, Georgie and I did not talk to each other for almost two years and then, out of the blue, she emailed me. Back when I lived here in England, I worked with a pediatrician she was considering to be Anne's doctor and wanted my opinion of him. However, she still harbors some resentment against me for my situation with Will.” As she said this, she noticed that Will's cheeks colored slightly and his back became a little stiffer.

“Dr. Bennet, it is not my place to get involved in your marriage, however I do still believe you are the best choice. Mrs. Lewis contacted you because she trusted your judgment enough to help her make a serious decision regarding her daughter. That shows me she respects and trusts you. Mr. Darcy told us that she squeezed your hand; this is more movement than we've seen since the day she woke up. She needs to deal with her grief or I fear she will never truly recover until she does.”

“Dr. King, what is her physical prognosis?”

“Well, she will require two more surgeries, although she seems to be recovering much more slowly than we would usually like. We are having to feed her intravenously because she has been refusing regular food. She is continually unresponsive. Her squeezing your hand was a very big accomplishment and you did that during your first meeting. I feel that you would a tremendous support to her recovery.”

Elizabeth sighed and then looked from Will to the doctors.

“Gentleman, might you give me and Will a moment alone?”

“Of course.”

The couple sat in silence for several moments as Elizabeth pondered her predicament. Part of her knew she needed to stay, but could she? How could she possibly live in a house with her husband, not even really her ex-husband. She ran her hand over her face and took deep breath. She knew what she needed to do.

Chapter 6:

With a deep breath Elizabeth gave Will her answer, “I'll do it.”

Will turned to her with the first genuine smile she'd seen on his countenance since she returned, “Thank you, Beth.”

“There is no need to thank me. I just hope I can help her.”

Will studied her thoughtfully for a moment before adding, “I know this is strange, but I truly believe you can.”

Smiling slightly Elizabeth nodded.

“I'll have Mrs. Reynolds prepare the guest suite for you. Is that still okay?”

Elizabeth closed her eyes and sighed before nodding. She couldn't really believe what she had gotten herself into. After spending three years avoiding Will so completely, now she was volunteering to stay at his house, their old home. So I have really gone insane.

***

Elizabeth and Will had parted ways shortly after. He had gone to inform Jane and Charles of her decision and she had gone to make a couple phone calls. She had no idea what she was going to tell Charlotte. So, taking a deep breath she dialed her work number.

“Elizabeth Bennet's office, how can I help you?”

“Hey Charlotte, it's Elizabeth.”

“Hey…how's England?”

Elizabeth snorted and then added sarcastically, “Great. We're all just peachy.”

“So are you going to give him the papers?”

“Charlotte! I can't think of that right now! Georgie is a complete mess, she needs me. This is not the time to think about my relationship with Will.”

“Elizabeth, this may be your only chance to work things out with Will. I mean, you could either divorce him, or have a nice little chunk of change, or you could get back together with him.”

“Charlotte…I don't want his money.”

“Beth, you could be living so luxuriously…”

“Charlotte! Stop! Even if I do give Will the papers, I will not take any of his money. I didn't marry him for his money and I won't divorce him for it either.”

The line was silent for several moments before Charlotte answered, “You know I would never expect anything different from you, Beth.”

“Thank you for understanding, Charlotte. Right now I've got to stay here and focus on Georgiana.”

“Stay there. What do you mean stay there?”

“I mean stay England. I'm using my vacation days. I know I have plenty saved up. I haven't missed a day in two years, and your dad can take over my patients while I'm gone.”

“Of course, but Beth have you thought about this? I mean staying there.”

“Charlotte, I don't have choice. She needs me.”

Beth heard Charlotte sigh before responding, “So do you need me to book you a hotel room?”

“No, I'm staying with Will.”

“What! Are you completely crazy?”

“Charlotte…”

“No! Beth, please take a minute to think this over. You've agreed to stay in the same house with your ex, the man who completely shattered your heart.”

“It's painful for both of us. I probably hurt him just as much. Don't think I have forgotten what happened between us. It's not like I'm planning on getting back together with him. The damage is done, and neither one of us wants to repair it.”

“Be careful, Beth.”

“I will Char. But I do need a favor.”

“Yeah?”

“Well I don't think I have enough clothes. I only packed for three days, so can you send me some more stuff?”

“Of course. Take care of yourself okay? And I'm here if it gets too crazy over there.”

“Thanks I'll remember that.”

***

“Beth agreed?” Charles said standing up from his seat outside Georgiana's waiting room.

“Yes. I'm quite surprised actually. I didn't think she would.”

“So do you want her to stay with us?” Jane asked standing next to Charles.

“No she's staying the guest suite.”

“Will…you don't have to do that. We only live 30 minutes away.”

“No, we've agreed it would be best for her to stay with me. Anyways, I have thought it over and it'll be good for Ana to have her so close.”

Jane nodded, “That's true, but Will, are you sure that this good for you?”

“Jane thank you for concern but it's only for a couple of weeks and I can manage.”

“Will, I don't like this.”

“I don't either Charles, but it's what is best for Ana, and as we agreed earlier, we can't lose her.”

Charles patted Will on the back, “You know we're here for you if it gets to difficult with her.”

“Thanks, Charles, and you too, Jane, I don't know where I'd be without you.”

***

The next several days went fairly quickly as preparation for Georgiana's release from the hospital was top priority on everyone's mind. Her last few surgeries had been completely successful, and she was now recovering slowly. The doctors had allowed her release by the end of the week.

Although Elizabeth and Will were both constantly in each other presence they barely spoke two words to each other. Jane and Charles had spent most of their time with their children and planning the memorial service for Brandon and Anne. They had already been buried several weeks before, but because of concern for Georgiana, there had not been a funeral. Jane and Charles planned the service for a month from the present because of Elizabeth's treatment plan. Elizabeth wanted Georgiana to start dealing with her grief before subjecting her to a service.

Elizabeth's niece and nephew had been allowed to come into Town to visit her for the day. They had spent that time enjoying a picnic and Frisbee in the park. She couldn't believe how much they had grown in the last three years It was nice to be back with Jane and to actually spend time with her family, but she knew this trip wasn't for pleasure. She had a mission and she wasn't going to forget it.

So, she tried to spend as much time with Georgiana as possible, and avoided having to spend time with Will. The first wasn't too difficult because she simply talked to her, trying to illicit some type of response from her. So far she had only limited success but she was still optimistic. Elizabeth knew the grief of losing a child so she didn't push her too terribly hard.

Avoiding Will was nearly impossible. They both were constantly visiting Georgiana. At first they hadn't said a word to one another because they were both afraid of being uncivil, but finally, both had decided that they could try to be civil on Georgiana's behalf.

On the day before Georgiana's release Elizabeth had been getting lunch in the cafeteria when she felt a hand on her shoulder, “Beth.”

She jumped slightly at the touch and the sound of his voice but nonetheless calmly turned around and looked at him.

“Yes, Will?”

“I am returning to Pemberley for a few hours today, and I was wondering if you would like to join me and get yourself situated in the guest chamber, so you don't have to worry about it tomorrow.”

Elizabeth liked this idea, so she agreed and Will told her he planned to leave as soon as possible.

“Is that alright with you?”

“Sure, but I will need to stop by the hotel and get the rest of my things.”

“Okay, we'll leave in ten minutes. I just want to run up and so good-bye to Georgiana. I'll meet you in the car park.”


***


Elizabeth looked around at the interior of Will's car. He had bought a new SUV with all the new features. `Typical,' she thought `he always has to have the best.' She looked over at the man sitting in the driver's seat and studied his features. She could see how little he'd changed in the last three years. He could be kind and loving but at same time he could wear that cold, aloof mask that so frustrated her.

“Do you need something?”

Elizabeth shook her head and blushed as she realized she had been caught staring at him and tried to think up a reply. “I was lost in thought.”

Will just nodded in response. Elizabeth tapped her foot impatiently wishing there was some topic of conversation that would not be awkward for them. She decided to compliment his car.

“I really like your new car, it's very nice looking.”

Smiling slightly he thanked her, and she grew more frustrated.

“You know, I said something about your car, you should talk the weather or the state of the roads.”

“So you still talk by rule during car rides?”

“Yeah, I actually find it more enjoyable then being taciturn and saying nothing for two hours.”

“Then please direct me on what you should like me to say.”

Elizabeth let out and exasperated sigh, “I don't care. Anything would do.”

“Have you read Mr. Thompson's latest book?”

“No, I have been too busy with work to be able to read poetry.”

“What a pity. It's very good.”

“I bet.”

“You, know you have changed.”

“Really? Do tell in what way,” Elizabeth tried to control her mounting frustration but his attitude was starting to weigh on her.

“The girl I used to know would never let work stop her from reading poetry.”

“Maybe I have changed. I guess I learned throwing yourself into work has some merits. You know, I did learn from the best,” she replied smirking at him slightly.

“Actually, I have realized that being too consumed with work can only destroy a person.”

“Hmmm…sadly, I'd say you learned that too late.”

“Maybe, but at least I've tried to learn from my mistakes,” he said indignantly.

Elizabeth cringed but determined not to let his comment slide replied, “Really? Well I guess that makes two of us. You know, all the men I date now are nothing like you—thankfully.”

Frowning, Will rejoined sarcastically, “Good, now I can add unfaithful to the all the other qualities of the excellent wife.”

“Are you going to try to tell me you haven't dated anyone in the last three years?”

“I take my wedding vows seriously, Elizabeth.”

Elizabeth burst out laughing, “Oh now please, that's a load of crap and you know it.”

“Elizabeth, I don't care if you believe me or not, but I have never cheated on you and will not date anyone until we are no longer married.”

Needless to say, they did not speak again until they reached the house.


***

That night Elizabeth sat in the guest chamber of Pemberley and again admired how beautiful her home had once been. She had missed Pemberley during the last three years. Elizabeth thought back to how tense the whole rest of the evening been. Mrs. Reynolds was civil to her but she no longer spoke to her with the old warmth. Will had almost ignored her completely since their earlier conversation in the car.

Elizabeth cringed as she thought about it. She knew she had baited him and then when he had been hurtful she lashed back. She shook her head thinking about how their conversation always turned hurtful no matter how innocent they began.

In reality, Elizabeth had only been on one date during the last three years. Despite her mother's protest, she really had no desire to date anyone. Charlotte had set her up with her brother, Brian Lucas. Brian was handsome and actually intelligent but to her misfortune she found she had not been able to enjoy their date. Every topic of conversation had her wondering what Will would say to a similar question and whether he would laugh at certain jokes. So his comment about her being unfaithful had really upset her because in all honesty she had been faithful. She hadn't kissed or done anything else with anyone. Why do I let my big mouth get the better of me?



***

In his bedroom Will Darcy wasn't fairing much better than Elizabeth. He was frustrated that he had let his tongue loose after he had specifically promised himself to be civil to her, but it was hard not to be angry when she purposefully tried to get under his skin. Then there was the comment about her dating other men. He couldn't believe it. How could she have dated anyone else? I can't even look at another woman without thinking about her. Why is it so much easier for her to forget about me--to pretend that we never were in love? He shook his head, deciding to think about it no longer and gave in to his exhaustion.


The next morning the couple was again in the car speeding towards London and so far not a word had been spoken between them. Elizabeth watched the passing countryside with wonder. Although she had seen it hundreds of times before, there was something about the beauty of nature that captivated her. She looked over at Will wishing there was some way she could apologize for her cruel comments yesterday. Deciding that she had to try she spoke,

“Will…I…wanted to apologize for yesterday. I haven't been unfaithful to you…you see in reality I haven't been on any real dates since…”

Will interrupted, “Beth really it's not necessary. We both let our tongues get the best of us yesterday; but, in all honesty, your love life is none of my concern. Although we are still married, I could hardly expect you to remain faithful to me.”

“But don't you see I was. I haven't even kissed anyone since you…I…”

“Please…let's not talk anymore about this. It doesn't matter to me.”

His words stung and had hit the mark, so Elizabeth just remained silent. However, the silence didn't remain for long, because it seemed that Will was in a talkative mood.

“So can you tell me about your treatment plan for Ana?”

Elizabeth squashed her frustration and let her professional nature take over. “Well, sure. I mean, mainly I've just been talking to her—trying to get some response from her. Right now she's lost in her grief, and my plan is to try and help her out of it. However, I would prefer if we don't talk about Brandon or Anne for the time being. Before letting her deal with her grief, she needs to be able to at least function on her own.”

“What should we talk to her about?”

“Well, happier times—like for instance when you were children. I want to get her out of this dark cloud she has surrounded herself in. I talk to her about our time in high school and in college. I try to make her laugh or at least smile. I have thought about finding jokes to tell her. Any type of reaction right now would be wonderful.”

“So what do you plan to do once she becomes responsive?”

“I plan on forcing her to accept her husband and daughter's death and then letting her grieve and help her through it. Will, this could take weeks I don't expect her to come out of this immediately.”

“But you're sure this will help her? You promise that she will eventually be okay?”

“I can promise you I will help her recover; however, as for being okay…I have no idea. Losing a child can change a person.”

Will looked over at her and sadly whispered, “I know.”


***


When they reached the hospital, Will and Elizabeth made their way to Doctor King's office to have one last meeting with him before Georgiana was released. As they walked through the sterile, white hallways, Elizabeth kept close to Will's side. She hated hospitals. They always brought back memories of a night she wished she could forget. She shivered involuntarily and silently rejoiced that after today she would probably not have to be back in one for a very long time. When they reached his office, Dr. King welcomed them in and asked them to be seated.

“So today is the big day…although I will say I'm nervous to release her just yet.”

“Dr. King, I don't understand. I thought we all agreed that today was the day. Has something changed your mind?” Will asked.

“Mr. Darcy, let me lay my concerns at your door. Georgiana still is hardly eating on her own. I don't think it's good to take her from the hospital just yet.”

Elizabeth joined the conversation by saying, “Dr. King, I do see your hesitancy; however, Georgiana is eating and, although it's not much…I think it would be best for her to get away from the hospital. It will help her emotional recovery to be home. Release her to me as a doctor; if I feel that she is not improving or her physical health suffers because of it, I will bring her back to the hospital.”

Dr. King was silent for several moments before answering, “I will agree to your suggestion if you are willing to call me every day with updates on her condition, and she will need weekly visits to the hospital.”

This time Darcy answered, “Of course, Doctor. Anything you need for us to do to enable her recovery will be done.”

“Good. The release papers should all be in order, and you should be able to leave within the hour.”

“Thank you, Dr. King, for everything.”

***


After they left Dr. King's office, Will went down to the fourth floor to sign Georgiana's release papers, and Elizabeth went back to the lobby to wait for them to return. Elizabeth hadn't slept well the night before, so sitting down she felt her weariness wash over her, but just as she was just about to give into it she heard someone calling her name.

“Beth?”

“Jane.” She got up and hugged her sister. “Where's Charles?”

“He's at the office. He had some work he couldn't put off.”

“Oh, well, how are the kids?”

“Great! They started at a new preschool yesterday, and it's all they could talk about all last night.”

Elizabeth grinned. “Jane you have no idea how I've missed them and you these last years.”

“Dearest, I've missed you, too, and the kids have missed their aunt. I hate the circumstances that have brought you back, but I'm glad you've been given an opportunity to be here with us again.”

Hugging her sister tightly, Elizabeth fought against the tears that were threatening to fall. “Jane...I'm glad I got to see them again.”

Jane pulled back and wiped the tears that had fallen and decided it was time to change the subject. “Where's Will?”

“He went upstairs to sign Georgiana's release papers.”

“Oh, right…I called Will asking if he wanted us all to eat lunch together, but he said he would prefer just taking her home. But I still wanted to come see about you. How are you doing?”

“What do you mean?”

“Elizabeth, you're going to be living with Will for the next couple weeks. You cannot tell me that's not having an affect on you.”

“Jane, really, I'm fine. Sure it's a little awkward right now between us, but really I'm okay.”

Elizabeth could see the frustration mounting in her sister's eyes, but still she was not prepared for her next words.

“Why do you always do this? Why do you always pretend that you're fine? I can tell you're not okay.”

“Because, Jane, I am fine. Honestly, nothing is wrong with me.”

“Beth…honey do you not see what this is doing to you? Pretending that you're fine is crazy. You need to deal with your own grief.”

“Please…stop…really, I'm okay.”

“Elizabeth…”

The rest of their conversation was interrupted because of Will and Georgiana's approach. Elizabeth moved past Jane towards where Georgiana was sitting in a wheelchair. She knelt in front of her and inquired, “Hey, darling. How are you today?”

Georgiana didn't respond and just continued to look towards the window, so Elizabeth stood and faced Will. “So, are we all set?”

“Yes. Dr. King has given us the all clear.”

“Excellent. So do you want me to go get the car?”

“No it's okay actually. I'll go get the car, you just stay here, and I'll be back as soon as I can. Jane, will you walk me out?”

“Yeah of course, I'll talk to you later,” she said, turning to Beth.

Elizabeth nodded and then turned back to Georgiana as Will and Jane made their way out of the hospital.

***


“Georgie, do you mind if I sit next you,” she said as she pointed to the chair next to hers. Georgiana still made no indication if she accepted the plan, but Beth sat down just the same. She took Georgiana's hand in her own and massaged it slowly.
She whispered softly, “Georgie, will you please look at me? Sweetie, can you smile for me? I really want to see that beautiful smile of yours.” Elizabeth paused for a moment and then continued, “Georgie...I know that you can hear me and I want you to know that I'm here for you. I want you to know that I love you, and I'm not going anywhere… Georgie…c'mon please look at me.”

Georgiana still didn't move, but a few moments later Elizabeth felt a tiny squeeze on her hand. For Elizabeth that was all the encouragement she needed, so she continued to massage Georgiana's hand until Will came and picked them up.


***

As soon as Will had seen Jane in the waiting room he could tell she was upset, so he had asked her to come along with him in order to get to the bottom of her problem. As they walked towards the car, Will waited, hoping Jane would open up to him, but after several moments of silence he asked her, “Care to tell me what has you so agitated? I assume it has something to do with your sister?”

“Ugh!!” She let out a large breath in frustration. “I just don't understand her! I mean I asked her how she was doing, and she told she was fine. Good God none of us are fine. Brandon and Anne just died, Georgiana is a complete emotional wreck, and she has come back to England after not speaking to you for three years and tells me she's fine. Why does she do this? Why does she pull away from a family who loves her and wants to help? Did you know that she hasn't even dealt with the death of your child? I can see the pain still in her eyes, Will. It's unhealthy what she's doing to herself.”

Will stopped and embraced her for some time. Later, once he felt Jane calm down a bit, he looked down at her and said, “I have tried to understand your sister for the last four years, ever since she started pulling away. I don't understand why she keeps running, but eventually she will break and I just hope that someone will be there to help her pick up the pieces when it happens.”

“Me too, Will. I'm so scared for her. She preaches dealing with others' pain, yet at the same time she continues to try to bury her own. I want to help her, Will, and this trip may be my only chance. Georgiana is not the only one who needs to deal with her grief.”

“I agree; but, Jane, how are you going to convince her that she needs to deal?”

“I don't think I can, but you could. Will, you could help her.”

“I can't do that Jane, she won't let me in. I tried once and I will not go through that hell again. I haven't forgiven her for leaving yet; I don't think I can,” Will replied bitterly.

Jane sighed, “I know, but please just promise me that if she falls apart while she's with you, you'll help her.”

“I'm not an idiot, Jane.” Will paused and was silent for several long moments before replying, “If she wants to deal with her pain, I'll do my best to help.”

Jane nodded and smiled slightly before replying, “I want you happy, Will. Don't let her presence upset your life...the little happiness that you can find right now.”

“I won't Jane. I still care about Beth, it's impossible to have loved someone for so long and not care, but there is too much between us…”

By now they had reached Jane's car which was only several down from Will's, so she unlocked her car door but turned back before entering.

“Good luck, Will. Call Charles or me if you need anything.”

“Thank you, Jane.”

Will shut Jane's door behind her and watched her drive off thinking about all she had said as he made his way to his car.

I can see the pain in her eyes, Will, It's unhealthy what she's doing to herself. He could see it, too, and it still wounded him. He hated that after three years she was still refusing to move on. He hadn't forgotten his son, but he had dealt with his death and continued to live. But he could see that she was still refusing to do that. She was still stuck in her anguish—only partially living—burying herself in work and wearing a mask to cover up her ache. If he hadn't known her so well, he would have missed it. Because of the love they once shared, he wanted to help her, but he felt that would be impossible to do.

Chapter 8


The evening after they returned from the hospital was spent helping Georgiana adjust to being home. Her bedroom had been moved to the first floor in order to help accommodate her better. Although she had begun physical therapy, she still needed a wheelchair to help her get around.

As Elizabeth stood in her room that evening, she looked in the mirror wondering how she had gotten to this point. She wrapped her arms around herself and looked around the room. Although she had never stayed here before, it was familiar and homey. It had high ceilings, and the walls were painted a beautiful deep shade of red. There was a fire lit on the far wall to help keep the home warm from the winter cold. Her bed was made of a rich mahogany and had a beautiful gold comforter on top. As she continued the inspection of her room, she was interrupted by the ringing of her cell phone.

“Hello?”

“Lizzy?”

A wide smiled broke out on her face as she heard the familiar voice of her father—he was the only one who ever called her Lizzy.

“Dad! How are you?'

“I'm fine except for the heart attack I had when Mary told me you were back in England.”

“Dad! Don't kid about having a heart attack.”

“Don't you try and change the subject. Why in the hell are you back in England?”

“Will called me—”

“Will Darcy? You've got to be shittin' me, darling.”

“Dad! Please! There is no need for you to be crude. Georgiana was in a car accident. I came back to help her.”

She heard her father let out a low whistle. “Is she okay?”

“She will be.”

“Well, sweetheart, I do understand your motives, but are you sure this is a good decision?”

“I'm not sure of anything right now. But she needs me, and I need to be here for her.”

“Hmmm.”

Elizabeth decided it was time to change the subject, so she asked about his trip, and he told her that all went well and he would be back on the road in a couple of days.

“Now, Dad, make sure you're not overworking yourself—you're not as young as you once were.”

“I know, Lizzy, but it's all I've got around here, and it keeps me busy.”

“Have you talked to Lydia lately?”

“Darlin', you know how hard it is to talk to her. I mean, she's horrible about keeping in touch, but last time I talked to her she and Emma were doin' good. You should give her a call. I know she's busy in New York, but she would probably like to hear from you.”

“Dad…”

“Lizzy, don't `Dad' me…you have to get over this guilt you feel. It's not you're fault. You never even knew Wickham and she had met. She's happy now in New York with Emma and Tom. I mean, you saw them all together at the wedding; there is no reason for you to hold on to this guilt. Lydia doesn't blame you for any of it; she has grown up and moved on…and you should too.”

“I know you're right Dad but…never mind…I will try.”

“Please do sugar britches.”

Elizabeth smiled at her father's strange endearment and added, “You know I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

“Oh, and Dad?”

“Yeah?”

“Don't tell anyone back home I'm back in England—especially Mom.”

“Darlin' the last time I ever told your mother anything was over a decade ago. You can count on me to keep your secret.”

“Thanks. It's just…you know how she'll get if she finds out, and right now I have more important stuff to worry about besides her.”

“I know you do. Take care.”

“You, too.”

Elizabeth shut her phone and smiled as she remembered how, when she was little, she would wait impatiently by the phone so she would be the first to talk to him when he called from the road. He had been out on trips most of the time. When she was seven, it became even harder because her parents divorced.

Frances and Thomas Bennett met when they were both very young. They had been dating for less than a month when she found she was pregnant with Jane. Their parents had forced them to marry; and, for several years, although they had troubles, they had been happy. However, when Frances became pregnant for the fourth time and then gave birth to twins, Lydia and Kitty, their troubles became sky-high.

Thomas began to feel the strain of having five children to support, while Frances constantly complained that he was never home and she had to raise all the children by herself.

It hurt Elizabeth to hear her mother's resentment of having five children; it hurt to hear her resentment of Elizabeth in particular. She had always been her father's favorite; and, whenever he was home from his trips, he would spend time with her. They would spend hours talking about the places he'd visit, and he would always bring her a present from wherever he went. Usually it was something small, but she treasured each and every gift. Her mother hated the fact that her father would give Elizabeth the attention she felt she deserved.

Too small to really understand what was happening between her parents, it was hard for Elizabeth to listen to the two people she loved most in the world spew hatred at each other. Her father would leave for months at a time on business trips to avoid speaking to her mother, and her mother would always cry hysterically about the miserable life she had to endure.

The summer before their divorce, Jane was sent to stay with her Aunt and Uncle Phillips while Elizabeth was kept at home to help take care of the other children. That summer was especially brutal. Elizabeth didn't know if it was the heat or the humidity. but her parent's tempers were at an all-time high which left her right in the middle of their biggest battles.

That summer her father lost his job, which only gave her mother more reason to complain; and so, without any place to escape, both Thomas's and Frances's tempers exploded. Their incessant fighting lasted for a month until finally, one night, Thomas packed up and left.

After that night, Elizabeth's life had never been the same. Her parents had divorced. They had fought over the custody—neither wanting to have to take care of all five children by themselves—but finally, since Thomas's new job would prevent him from being home during the week, Frances was given full custody of all five children.

Elizabeth had been miserable without her father. Since, luckily, he had decided to live only about five minutes out of town, Elizabeth would ride her bike over to his house whenever he was home and sit with him for hours on the porch.

As Elizabeth grew older she began to see more and more of her father's faults, and it hurt to realize the man she had so idolized was not perfect—that as much as she wanted to, she couldn't blame the divorce and her miserable childhood on her mother alone.

Living in a small town didn't make any of Elizabeth's pain any easier. The confined borders made it impossible to ever escape. Besides Jane, Elizabeth never really tried to make any friends. In her mind, the people she loved only left her.

When Elizabeth turned thirteen, she went wild. She started skipping school and hanging out with an older crowd. They got her to drink; and, although she really didn't like it, she wanted to fit in with someone and felt they were all she had. Although Elizabeth loved Jane, she didn't feel she could confide in her. Jane was the perfect child, and Elizabeth thought she just wouldn't understand. However, one day she was caught stealing from the mall and spent the next three months doing community service. Those three months were good for Elizabeth. They made her realize her mistakes, and she decided she needed to change.

So finally, when Elizabeth was fifteen, she decided it was time for a change. She spent the entire school year saving up money and went on an international trip—where she met Georgiana Darcy. After that summer, her life changed completely. For the first time in her life, Elizabeth had met someone she could trust, someone she could care about who showed her unconditional friendship.

Georgiana had helped her learn what it was to be happy, had taught her to really have fun—to laugh. So, when she met Will three years later, her life completely turned upside down. She finally felt at peace with the Darcys; she had found where she belonged.

The hardest part for Elizabeth had always been opening up. She had never told Will or Georgiana about her childhood. They knew her parents were divorced, but she had never told them any particulars. She felt ashamed about who she had been and what she had done, so she had purposely left out the details. Part of her thought that if she told them everything, they would stop loving her; so she kept it inside, thinking that if she was good enough, she could keep them around. However, secrets and lies have a way of catching up with you. All Will wanted was for his wife to trust him and open up to him; so, when they lost their child, his prodding just pushed her completely away.

As Elizabeth reminisced about her past she shook her head, wishing things could have been different, but she knew she could never fix the mistakes she had made or convince them to forgive her—she still wasn't ready to forgive herself. However, she decided she could try and help take away some of the pain Will was feeling now.

Chapter 9


By mid-morning of the next day Elizabeth was up, showered, visited Georgiana and had finished unpacking the boxes of clothing Charlotte had sent over. The time difference was still playing havoc with her rest, so she had once again gotten only a little sleep. Around eleven she had been typing an email to Charlotte when she felt her stomach grumble, so she decided to go get a bite to eat.

When she reached the kitchen, she was greeted by the wonderful smell of bread baking. She took in the view of the beautiful kitchen and noticed that Mrs. Reynolds was at the stove, as usual, preparing some delicious smelling concoction.

“Good morning, Mrs. Reynolds.”

“Good morning, Miss Bennet,” she said without turning around.

“You know you don't have to be so formal. You always used to call me Elizabeth.”

This time she did turn around and her eyes were fierce and unforgiving. “Miss Bennet, I feel that the time for informality between us has passed.”

“I'm sorry.”

“I don't think I'm the one you should be saying that to.”

Elizabeth took a step closer to Mrs. Reynolds, “Listen, I know I made a lot of mistakes, and I regret all the hurt I caused because I never wanted to hurt anyone. At the time what I did seemed right. If I had to go back now, I don't know if I would do anything different, but I would have thought about it more and maybe come up with a different solution. I don't know. However, I can't go back, and I can't take back the hurt. And part me still thinks I was right. I mean, he hurt me, too. I just wish I would have handled it better.”

Mrs. Reynolds stared intently at Elizabeth for several moments before replying, “I believe you, but those two are like children to me, and I don't want him to suffer like he did when you left.”

“I don't want that either. I just want help them through this.”

“Good, then we're agreed. Now since you said you would like to help… I'm worried about William. He hasn't been eating since he got home. He just takes his cup of coffee and locks himself up in his office. He only ever comes out to visit Georgiana.”

“You know he does that when gets stressed. I used to have to force him to eat.”

“Yes, and I think it may be time to use that force, if you don't mind me saying so. I don't think we need two patients on our hands.”

“Right… I think I know just the trick. Will could never resist one of my omelets.”

“Good idea.”

So Elizabeth spent the next half-hour creating a hearty brunch for Will while Mrs. Reynolds finished up dinner for that evening. Elizabeth had always enjoyed talking to Mrs. Reynolds. She was so insightful and kind-hearted that Elizabeth opened up a little and shared some glimpses of her new life in San Diego. Mrs. Reynolds had always been fascinated with America and asked her all sorts of questions, especially about American cuisine. As she exited the kitchen with a tray loaded with yummy food, she was stopped on the threshold by Mrs. Reynolds voice.

“Elizabeth?”

Elizabeth smiled slightly and then turned around, “Yes, Mrs. Reynolds?”

“It's nice to have you back.”


***


Elizabeth made her way down the corridor towards William's office. When he wasn't in London working, he was usually in his home office. She knocked on the door and was bid entrance.

“Hey.”

Without looking up from his work, William asked, “What do you need?”

“Nothing… I… Mrs. Reynolds said you weren't eating, so I…”

William's head shot up. “Are you checking up on me?”

“No…” she replied slowly. “Actually she just said you weren't eating much, so I thought you could use some food.”

“Beth…really I'm fine… I don't need you or Mrs. Reynolds checking up on me.” His voice was much harsher than he had intended, but something about Elizabeth playing house frustrated him.

“But…Will…I don't want you getting sick. You've been working really hard lately and…I'm worried…”

“Stop! Please! Really, when did you start worrying about my health?”

“Will…”

“No…Elizabeth, you're here for Georgiana…not me… It would be good for you to remember that.”

Elizabeth was furious. She had just been trying to bring him breakfast, and he bit her head off for it.

“Fine--forget it. I was just…ugh! You're insufferable. UGH!” Elizabeth threw down the tray on a nearby table, stormed out of the office, and slammed the door with a loud BANG behind her.


***

Will put his head in his hands and sighed deeply. He knew he had exploded for no reason and that he would need to apologize, but having her so nearby was wearing on him. It was hard enough to have to deal with her presence when she was hostile towards him, but then there she was this morning looking utterly beautiful in an apron and had been so kind to him. He just couldn't take it. It reminded him of the past, of how it could have been between them.


***

Elizabeth spent the rest of the day with Georgiana. She felt she was making progress; Georgiana was finally beginning to eat more on her own, and Elizabeth had gotten her to walk around a bit. She still wasn't talking, but Elizabeth talked enough for both of them. She told her about Charlotte, about her new job—anything she could think of. Finally, once Georgiana went back to sleep for the evening, she went downstairs to grab a snack before turning in. She noticed that Mrs. Reynolds had made Will a plate which was still covered with tinfoil. She shook her head as she realized that Will still was forgetting to eat. For a second she almost thought to bring it to him, but then she remembered that morning's fiasco and thought better of it.

Back in the guest room, she paced back and forth, furious at Will for not making an attempt to talk to her all day after what he had done at breakfast. She needed to vent to someone and knew just who to call.

“Charlotte?”

“Hi Beth! I just got your email… How's it going?”

“Horrible…absolutely awful.”

“Surprise…surprise…”, replied Charlotte ironically.

“Charlotte…”

“Fine… I'm sorry… What's so horrible about it?”

“We're constantly fighting and always annoying one another. I mean just this morning I tried to be nice and make him some breakfast, but he yelled at me for it. What the heck?”

“How's your patient?”

“Georgiana?”

“Yes.”

“She's fine, but what does that have to do with Will?”

“It doesn't, and that's the point. You're there to help, not to fight with Will, so stop it.”

“But he…”

“No…Beth… Listen to me,” Charlotte insisted, “You are there for her, so do whatever you have to to make sure Will doesn't distract you from your goal. Just put aside your differences for her. It's not like you have to be best friends to do that.”

The phone was silent several more moments before Beth spoke again, “You're right. I'll work on it.”

“Good. Now do you want to know how your patients here are?”

“Of course.”

Charlotte spent the next hour telling Beth how her patients were fairing. She read Elizabeth the notes her father, Elizabeth's partner made in their files. Elizabeth also asked her the write down some suggestion for Dr. Lucas on how to handle certain cases. Finally, Elizabeth yawned deeply and realized how late it was.

“Sorry Char. It's almost midnight over here. I'd better go.”

“Okay… I hope everything works out. You know you always call me.”

“I know--thanks for the advice. I don't know where I'd be without you.”

“No problem. Oh my brother wanted me to tell you hi. He's back in San Francisco, you know, and he's still infatuated with you.”

Elizabeth scoffed, “Charlotte…please… I went out with Jonathan once and that was only because you pressured me into it. I highly doubt he's infatuated with me.”

“Mmmmhmmm.”

“Charlotte! You're impossible! Tell him I said hi. I'll call you in a couple of days.”

“Good luck with everything.”

“Bye!”

***

That night Darcy again found he could not sleep. His worry about his sister and his agitation at having her in his house had spiraled to an all time high; and now, as hard as he tried, he could not find sleep. Will flung himself out of bed and walked down to the library thinking he could get some work done.

Working at 3 a.m. however is not an easy thing. Will's mind was tired but his body just would not let him succumb to the rest he knew he needed. The reports and figures were starting to blur, and he finally decided to give up and just try to go back to sleep. As he walked back towards the stairs, he noticed the light was on in the kitchen. Thinking that Mrs. Reynolds must have forgotten to turn it off, so he went to do it. However, when he entered, he saw Elizabeth sitting in her dressing gown and stirring a cup of tea.

“Elizabeth…” he said softly.

She jumped slightly and turned towards him. “Will…what are you doing up?”

“I could ask you the same thing.”

She smiled slightly and explained that the time change was still keeping her up, and then she offered him a cup of her freshly brewed tea.

“No…thank you. I can't sleep these days either. Beth…about this morning—I'm sorry.”

“Apology accepted.”

“Thank you for making it easy on me. They were very good omelets by the way—the ones that didn't end up on the floor.”

She smiled and laughed slightly, “My omelets are always very good and you could have had the whole thing if you hadn't made me so mad!”

“Yes…it was my own fault.”

They were silent for several moments, each lost in their own thoughts, and Will was about to leave when Elizabeth asked the most unexpected question.

“How are you?”

“Excuse me?” Will wasn't really sure how to answer her. Lately he had been so focused on work and Georgiana that he hadn't really thought about himself.

“I just meant how are you handling everything?”

“I've been okay. It's all so strange. I feel like I can't grieve yet, but it's so unfair to them. Brandon was always a good friend and treated Ana so well, and Anne was my niece. It's just so strange for them to be gone and you to be here.”

“I know—for me too. It's weird seeing you again… You look so…so…”

“Bad?” he asked teasingly.

“No, no,” she said quickly as she fiddled with the edge of her tea cup, “You could never look bad. I guess you just look a little different.”

“Different? Yeah, I guess I do. I am not the only one who's changed though. You cut your hair.”

“I cut it as soon as I got to San Diego. It was kind of like a new place, a new me. I don't know if I really like it… I just do whatever… Most days I just throw it in a ponytail or…”

Will tried not to smile at her nervous babbling, but it broke through anyway. He looked at her thoughtfully for a moment and then replied, “You know you're still beautiful.”

The two stared, each drowning in the memories the other's mere presence provoked. In a flash he truly saw her for the first time in years. He saw the intense sadness she tried to hide so well, her insecurities, and her fears. In that moment he wished for nothing other than to be able to hold her, to tell her everything was going to be okay, but he couldn't.

Elizabeth was the first to break the connection. She looked out the window and up at the moon. Finally she turned back towards Will,

“Will… I…”

“I know…”

“You know this is the first real conversation we've had without arguing.”

“It was very pleasant.”

She nodded pensively and then looked over at him. “I know… Will…we can't erase our past, but what if, for the sake of your sister, we try to get along. I will be gone in a few weeks, and you can get back to your life. But for the time I'm here, I think it would be best for your sister if we weren't always at each others throats.”

Will looked down at the table and then back at Beth—quite frustrated with himself for feeling a pang of sadness when she mentioned her imminent departure—and forced himself to reply.

“I think your suggestion is a good one.” He held out his hand and asked, “Partners?”

She smiled and shook his hand. “Partners.”

Chapter 10—part 1

The next week passed swiftly for William and Elizabeth. Although they no longer purposely avoided one another, they didn't seek each other out either; it was still a little awkward to be in one another's presence for any extended period of time.

They both tried to stay busy. Elizabeth was constantly with Georgiana or talking to Charlotte on the phone about her patients back in San Diego. William was finally catching up on all his missed work and started spending more time with his sister. Elizabeth and William usually ended up visiting her at the same time. At first it had been difficult, but they both remembered their agreement to be partners and spent hours just talking to her, hoping something they mentioned would bring her back to them.

Elizabeth was feeling more confident about her treatment every day. Although Georgiana hadn't begun to talk again, she was at least feeding herself and would occasionally look at them when they entered the room. Elizabeth could tell she was fighting and knew it was only a matter of time.

Towards the end of the week, Elizabeth felt it was time for Georgiana to have a change of scenery. The weather on this particular day was fair. November weather in Derbyshire is never great; but, although overcast, it was warm and she felt Georgiana would be able to sit outside for several hours before it rained.

Before she took Georgiana out, she decided to check with William first. Although she was Georgiana's doctor, she liked this new-found `partnership' she and Will had developed and didn't want to do anything to mess it up.

Mrs. Reynolds had told her he planned to spend the afternoon reading in the library. She was surprised; the Will Darcy she had known would never have wasted a Saturday afternoon simply reading. She smiled slightly; she liked the change.

The door was open when she reached the library, and she peered inside. Will was there, sitting on the couch with his feet spread out in front of him, glasses hanging off his nose, and a book perched on his chest. She had to admire how adorable he looked when he tried to concentrate.

She knocked lightly on the inside of the door, and he looked up, startled.

“Sorry. I didn't mean to disturb you.”

“No, you're fine. I was just reading.”

“I see. What book has you so absorbed?

“It's nothing… It's…a mystery.”

“A mystery? You're reading a mystery.”

“Yes. I am. It's quite good actually.”

“You have changed. The Will Darcy I once knew didn't read mysteries,” she said, sounding slightly amused.

“Well…they are very captivating. I blame it all on you, you know.”

“Me?”

“Yes. If you hadn't left them here…I would never had become curious,” he said smiling slightly.

“Well, I guess I can't fault your taste then since they are my books.”

“No, you can't. So, did you need something?”

“Do you mind if I take Georgiana outside for a little while this afternoon?”

“That sounds fine. You don't have to ask for my permission, though.”

“Well, we're partners, and I just thought…”

He nodded. “Thank you.”

She turned to leave but then quickly turned back. “Will?”

“Yes?”

“Do you want to come and sit with us?”

William looked down at the floor and was silent for several moments, “Yes. I'd like that very much.”


***

A half hour later the three were sitting in lawn chairs in the garden. From the moment Georgiana stepped outside, her whole countenance seemed to brighten. Elizabeth was pleased; she had hoped some fresh air would help her; and, so far, she wasn't wrong.

“Hey, Will?”

“Yes?”

“I don't want to intrude or anything, but I've been wondering. Where is Richard? Georgiana's like his sister…”

“You're not intruding, Beth, but it's not a secret. Richard's on duty.”

“Really?”

“Yeah. He was promoted to squadron leader for the Royal Air Force about a year ago. He was in training for several months, and then about six months ago he was sent on duty.”

“Wow.”

“I haven't told him yet. It's not something I wanted to send by mail. He has enough going on. His leave comes up in a few weeks, and I'll tell him then.”

Elizabeth nodded slowly, “That's a smart decision. Have you heard from him lately?”

“I got a letter a couple weeks ago actually. He's doing fine. You know, I offered him a position in the firm a couple years ago, but he refused. He said he wasn't made for the office, and I agreed, but I still wish he was here. I miss him a lot when he goes away.”

“I know Richard and you were always more like brothers than cousins.”

“Yes we are. You know,” he added changing the subject, “I never have asked you how your family is doing.”

“They're good. I talked to my dad a couple of nights ago; he's doing good, staying busy. Mary is, well Mary is Mary. She's off touring the country with her church. She got really into this church group a couple years ago and now they go around the country, doing charitable work and such. Kitty is…on husband number three. She's too much like my mother for me. I try talking to her, but we just…don't understand each other. Um…then there's Lydia. I…I don't talk to her much either, but my dad said that she's happy. She married a guy named Tom, and he's been a great dad to her daughter.”

“I'm glad. Lydia deserves to be happy.”

“Yeah, she does.”

Sensing her unease William quickly moved on. “What about your mother?”

Elizabeth gave a little half-laugh. “My mother? She's…good I guess. She hasn't really wanted to talk to me these days.”

“What? Why?”

Elizabeth looked at him uncertainly, not sure if she should answer. “You.”

“I don't understand.”

“She's mad because I left you.”

Elizabeth noticed he shifted uncomfortably and was silent for several long moments. Finally he looked back up at her.

“What reason does your mother have to be mad?”

Elizabeth licked her lips and looked away. She felt extremely uncomfortable talking about her mother with Will—especially when it had to do with them and their marriage. However, now that they had begun, she owed him an explanation.

“Well, you see, my mother was furious when I came home. I only stayed with her for two days before I realized it would be impossible to live there again. So I moved back in with my father. However, she didn't stop with her pestering. She wanted to know everything, and I didn't want to tell her. It wasn't her business. I mean, I don't know what she was thinking. I would never open up to her, but she seemed to think that I should. So finally, after fighting constantly for weeks, my mother told me she wouldn't plan on speaking to me again unless…”

“Unless what?”

“My mother gave me two options: either I divorce you and get a nice alimony payment or go back `to my rich husband' and beg for your forgiveness.”

“I see.”

“My mother just doesn't understand that it's not easy. She just doesn't see that…it wasn't that simple—that we're not that simple. We…” Elizabeth squeezed her eyes shut tightly to prevent her tears from falling. She didn't want to let him see her cry.

“Beth…”

She looked up at him, and he opened his mouth to speak but shook his head slightly. Several moments later she saw him get up and begin to wheel Georgiana back towards the house. Before he passed her he stopped.

“Beth…please don't let your mother upset you. What happened between us was none of her business—not then, not now. But saying that, I don't think I'm ready to talk about this…er…us. I…I'm going to take my sister back to her room.”

***

That evening Charles and Jane brought their children, Alex and Ella, for dinner with William and Elizabeth. Georgiana, however, was going to visit for a little while until she got tired. Elizabeth hoped the presence of Jane's children would cheer Georgiana's spirits.

Elizabeth and William were in the kitchen with Mrs. Reynolds when the doorbell rang that evening. William went to get the door.

“Charles—”

“Unca Will! Unca Will!”

Will smiled as he crouched down to give his twin niece and nephew a hug.

“And how are my sweet niece and nephew doing today?”

“Very good Do you like my dress, Unca Will?.”

Will smiled, “Oh yes, very much. You look very beautiful.”

She blushed slightly and then gave him a big lopsided grin and raised her arms up to him. Will swung her up into his embrace and then turned to Jane and Charles.

“How are you both?”

“Good. How's Georgiana?”

“She's better—improving daily.”

Will felt a tugging on his leg and looked down to see Alex looking up at him,

“Unca Will, do we get to see Aunt Ana?”

“Hopefully you can see her a little later if she's feeling up to it. Why don't you come in and make yourselves comfortable. I know Elizabeth wants to see you.”

“Aunt Lizzy, Aunt Lizzy,” said Alex as he ran past Will and down the hall.

Will stepped aside and let Jane and Charles inside. When he reached the kitchen, he handed Ella into Elizabeth eager arms. He smiled as he watched Ella giggle delightedly as Elizabeth showered her with kisses.

“Aunt Lizzy!”

“How is my beautiful niece?”

She giggled again, “That's what Unca Will said.”

Elizabeth smiled, “Did he? Well you seen then it must be true. And you know what they say, 'Great minds think alike.'”

Soon after, they all sat down to a wonderful dinner Mrs. Reynolds had prepared. They talked mostly of Georgiana and the progress that had been made during the past two weeks. However, Will didn't say much during dinner. Instead he took the time to observe Elizabeth. He noticed that when she smiled it no longer diffused her whole countenance, but instead seemed weak and hesitant.

It was almost as though he felt that if he stared at her long enough the answers on how to help her would just come to him. He said little throughout dinner. His thoughts mostly on Elizabeth and their conversation in the garden that morning. He was frustrated with himself; he had had her opening up and actually talking about her feelings and he had walked away.

But he wasn't ready to talk about their marriage and their subsequent separation. He shook his head trying to focus on the conversation.

“Ah, Will?”

“Charles?”

“I was wondering if I could borrow a book from the library. I could use your help finding it.”

Will looked at Charles strangely before hesitantly replying, “Of…of course.”

He turned back to Jane and Elizabeth, “Will you excuse us?”

“Yeah, I think were gonna go visit Georgiana anyways. Y'all just come up when you're done,” Elizabeth replied.

****

“I am assuming, Charles, that you really did not need a book.”

“No. I wanted talk to you. You've been acting so strange this whole evening. What is the matter?”

Will let out a frustrated sigh. “I can't figure her out, Charles, and it's driving me insane.”

“Will…I thought you realized that a long time ago.”

“I…just…I just don't know what to do. I ruined everything this afternoon.”

“What do you mean?”

“I finally had her talking. We were actually having a normal conversation, and she opened up to me about her family. She even talked to me about her mother. Did you know the horrible things that woman has said to her?”

“Jane never mentioned anything except that Mrs. Bennet was furious with Elizabeth for leaving. I wouldn't doubt Mrs. Bennet was thorough in voicing her displeasure.”

“Part of me is angry that her mother harassed her. I mean it's none of her business—what happened between Elizabeth and me. But then another part of me is still furious with Elizabeth for leaving, and that part feels like what Mrs. Bennet did was right. How horrible is that?”

“It's not horrible, Will. You're not a malicious man, but you are still hurting.”

“You know, she doesn't even speak to her mother anymore. Mrs. Bennet told her she either comes back and begs for my forgiveness or divorces me and takes me for all I'm worth.”

“Will, I know this is the last thing you want to hear, and I know Mrs. Bennet is lacking in delicacy, but her words are true. Elizabeth and you cannot keep avoiding this. You have to talk about your future. This separation has gone on long enough. I know this is horrible to say, but I agree with Mrs. Bennet. You both either need to move on or forgive each other.”

“Charles—”

“No! Listen to me. I've watched you for the last three years moping around being miserable without Elizabeth. You have to make a decision; you both do. Either you learn to live without her or swallow your pride and find a way to be with her again.”

Will sighed. He knew Charles was right, but it was too hard to think about. Divorce? He couldn't imagine divorcing her. It was so final, so permanent. He couldn't imagine just completely giving up. However forgiving her seemed even more impossible. She had hurt him so much. How was he supposed to get over that?

He looked back at his friend. “I don't know. I know you're right but…”

“You don't have to make the decision today, Will. She's not leaving for a while, but you do have to start thinking about it.”

“I miss her, Charles. Not the person she is now, I don't even really know her anymore. I miss the woman I married—the one who teased me and made me laugh. We were so happy… It's like the woman I knew died the same day our son did.”

“I know, Will we all miss her. But it's not going to get easier either, you have to deal with it sometime.”

Both the men were silent for several minutes. Will was thankful that Charles understood his need for quiet. Finally he broke it.

“I think we've been gone long enough. Do you still want to see Ana?”

“Of course, let's go. And Will don't worry too much. Fate has a way of making these decisions for us.”

***

That night as Elizabeth sat in her bathtub, she reflected with pleasure on how well the evening had gone. She smiled slightly as she remembered how sweet Alex and Ella had been with Ana. They had each kissed her cheek and told her to get better soon. She was proud of them for not asking any questions. They had been angels.

Elizabeth reflected on Will's behavior that evening with no satisfaction. She had hoped his spirits would liven up after seeing the Bingleys, but he still seemed so withdrawn, so pensive. It had unsettled her when she realized he kept staring at her during dinner. She wondered if mentioning her mother's ultimatum had been the right thing to do. She shook her head; there was nothing she could do about it now.

She again let her thoughts drift to her perfect niece and nephew. She had tried not to be envious of Jane, but she was. Jane had become pregnant shortly after the death of Elizabeth's son and had carried to term two perfectly healthy babies. Seeing them always made her wish for children of her own, and it always brought back to her the realization that that dream would never be possible. Deciding she was fed up with her own pity, she stepped out of the tub and went to the closet.

Once she was properly attired, she made her way to the bed, hoping for a restful night of sleep, but it was not to be. Some fifteen minutes after she laid her head down there was a banging at her door. She groggily made her way to the door and swung it open. There was Will still dressed his dinner clothes , panic written across his face.

“Please hurry. Something is wrong with Georgiana.”

Chapter 11

Before Will retired for the evening he decided to visit his sister. It had become somewhat of a ritual to visit her before bed. It was his special time alone with his sister. Most evenings he simply read to her; but, on occasions, he would talk to her—mostly about their parents and their life altogether before they had passed away.

On this particular night, he didn't feel like reading or talking, so he decided just be with her. As he entered the room, he immediately realized something was wrong. Georgiana was mumbling slightly in her sleep and tossing her head from side to side. He went to the bed and tried to soothe her, but her mumblings continued to get louder. Then all of sudden she started screaming and thrashing about.

Will was dumbstruck; he had no idea what to do. Then, without knowing how, he felt himself running towards the guest suite—towards Elizabeth. He didn't remember banging on her door, but suddenly it was swung open, and he knew he had to get her to his sister as soon as possible.

“Please hurry! Something is wrong with Georgiana.”

She was down the hall towards Ana's room before he had even finished the sentence, and Will was close on her heels. When he reached the room, he was thankful she was no longer screaming. Elizabeth was holding her tightly in her embrace as Georgiana continued to mumble incoherently.

Finally, some fifteen minutes later, Georgiana began to settle and fell back to sleep. He watched as Elizabeth slowly disengaged herself from Ana and laid her gently back upon the bed. As Elizabeth approached him, Will let out a great sigh of relief.

“How is she?”

“She's fine. I think she's sleeping peacefully.”

“What happened?”

“She had a nightmare. I'm guessing she was reliving the car accident. I'm staying in here with her tonight, Will. When she wakes up tomorrow I'm hoping she'll be ready to talk. She'll need to after the trauma she just had to relive. Tomorrow morning is our best chance.”

“Okay. I'm staying, too, then.”

“Will, you need to get some rest.”

“We're partners remember, Beth? Besides, she's my sister. I want to be here for her.”

Elizabeth sighed and nodded. “We should probably make ourselves comfortable,” she said, pointing to the sitting room that connected with the bedroom. “It's going to be a long night.”

Once they were both settled comfortably in the chairs and had checked to make sure that they could see Georgiana from their current seat, Elizabeth turned to question Will.

“When you first came into the room, what happened?”

“She was mumbling.”

“Did you make out anything she said?”

“No. She was just moaning. I tried to calm her down, but I don't think it helped. She went ballistic and started screaming. That's when I came for you.”

Elizabeth nodded pensively, “Nightmares are to be expected with PTSD, but I had hoped that, since she hadn't experience any of them so far, she wouldn't have any.”

“Are they harming her?”

“No. It's just painful. Although she will eventually have to face what happened, it's more difficult during a nightmare. As a therapeutic technique, `flooding'* can be good thing. The patient's body is ready to deal with the trauma they experience. Nightmares just creep up on them.”

“So you think she may be willing to talk in the morning?”

“Well, I don't know for sure, but the nightmare at least has forced her out of her denial. Also, after such a traumatic nightmare, I believe she'll be ready to begin facing it.”

“This isn't going to be easy, is it?”

“No, it's never easy—especially since you're also grieving.”

“What about you?”

“I'll be okay. I'm used to this, right?”

Will have gave her a weak smile and then looked away. It was definitely going to be a long night.

***

The next morning Will awoke with a start. He had finally fallen asleep a little after three with Elizabeth's promise that she would wake him before dawn. However, when he looked over at her, he realized that she, too, was fast asleep.

He marveled at how beautiful she was when she slept. He couldn't believe it had been so long since he'd seen her asleep. For several moments, he just sat there letting the memories of the happy times they had spent just cuddled up together in bed. Since they were both early risers ,they would always wake before dawn and watch the sunrise together. It had been his favorite time of the day, just being alone together away from all the troubles of the world.

Deciding he had waited long enough, he gently reached over and tapped her shoulder; she jumped slightly and ran a hand over her face. He watched as she stretched a little and then looked over at him.

She smiled slightly. “Sorry about that. I must have dozed off.”

“It's fine. We were both tired.”

“What time is it?”

“A little after seven.”

“She should be gettin' up soon.”

Will nodded. “Do you want any breakfast? I could have Mrs. Reynolds prepare us something.”

“Some toast and coffee would be nice.”

“Of course. I'll be right back.”

Will left her and walked down to the kitchen, informing Mrs. Reynolds of the night's developments and their breakfast requests. After hearing the news, Mrs. Reynolds ushered him back upstairs, promising their breakfasts would be there directly.

Finally, a little after eight, the couple was finishing the remnants of their breakfast when they heard a weak whisper.

“Will?”

“Ana?” Will rushed to his sister's bedside and took her hand. “Dearest, how are you feeling?”

“I'm fine…”

Will noticed that Elizabeth had slowly made her way to Ana's other side and sat gently on the bed.

“Ana…”

Georgiana turned her head slightly and looked at Elizabeth for a full minute before speaking,

“I had wondered if you were really here or if I was just dreaming it. I guess it really is true then. If you're here, it must mean they're gone.”

Before Will had a chance to answer, he heard Elizabeth responding, “Yes, they're gone, Ana. Will called me about a week after the accident. You were in bad shape. Do you remember waking up in the hospital?”

Georgiana nodded slowly. “I didn't want to believe it. It seemed like some horrible dream. It was just easier to pretend that none of it had ever happened.” Will heard his sister's voice catch, but he squeezed her hand reassuringly, hoping she would continue. “Why? Why them? Why leave me here without them, Elizabeth? You're the expert. Tell me… Oh please…”

Will watched as Elizabeth wrapped her arms around Georgiana. He put his hand on Georgiana's back as she continued to sob onto Elizabeth shoulder. It was so painful watching helplessly as his sister fought her own demons.

Finally after what seemed like hours Georgiana's sobs abated, and she pulled back and looked at Elizabeth.

“Thank you for coming…you have no idea how much I've missed you.”

“Yes I do, darlin'. You're my best friend… I'll always be here for you. You don't have to go through this alone.”

Georgiana nodded. “Will I always have nightmares like that?”

“It's hard to tell. You've been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. Nightmares are usually a symptom of the disorder, however were going to work on it. Hopefully the nightmares will end.”

“Does that pain ever go away?”

“Ana,” she slowly turned and looked her brother, “the pain won't ever completely go away, but I promise it does get better. You're dealing with it, that's what is important.”

“I hope you're right.” Georgiana yawned, “I think I need some rest. I'm so tired.”

“Of course, dearest. You've been through a lot this morning. I'll check up on you in a little while.”

“I love you, Will.”

“You too, sweetheart. Sleep well.”

“Elizabeth?”

“Yeah?”

“I never understood before what you felt after… but I know now, and I'm so sorry.”

Will saw Elizabeth falter slightly before squeezing his sister's hand again.

“Thank you, Ana. Get some rest, okay. We have a long journey ahead of us.”

***

Once they shut the door to his sister's room, Will impulsively grabbed Elizabeth's hand and squeezed slightly.

“Thank you so much, Beth. She's going to be okay.”

Elizabeth gave him a small smile.

“Aren't you excited?”

“Of course I am. I'm just tired, Will.”

Will stood silently as Elizabeth slowly made her way back to the guest suite.

***

As Elizabeth closed the door behind, she let out a long ragged breath. Slowly she let herself slide back against the door and slip onto the floor. She couldn't believe how hard that had been. Never had helping a patient been so difficult, but she supposed it wasn't every day your patient was your best friend.

It was times like this she had to keep herself reigned in. She couldn't let herself dwell too much on the past. She was stronger than this; she could overcome it again. Leaning her head back against the door, she let out another deep breath, trying to control her mind.

It was like her past decided to creep up on her all at once. Seeing Will again, being back at Pemberley, talking with her sister, and helping Georgiana. All the pain and grief came back to her in an instant. She staggered as she made her way towards the bed. She needed to sleep; it was the only way to get away from her memories.

There was a knock outside her door and she heard Will calling to her.

“Beth, open up!”

“Will, just go away.”

“No, we need to talk. You can't keep avoiding this. Let me in.”

“Please, go away.”

Although her back was to the door, she knew the second he entered. Finally, when he shut the door behind him she spoke.

“I think I told you to go away.”

“I'm not going anywhere, Beth. It's time to stop running.”

Furiously she turned back to him and yelled, “Who the hell do you think you are coming in here and demanding I talk to you? I don't want to. I just want to be left alone. Please, just go.”

“I can't do that, Beth. You need to deal with this. Don't you see what this grief has done to you? It's destroying you. Little by little it's eating you up.”

“I'm fine. I don't need your help.”

“Yes, you do. Can't you see that you're not really living? Can't you see that just because you refuse to deal with a problem…that it doesn't just go away?”

Elizabeth felt the tears that had begun to well up in her eyes. She knew he was right, but it was just so hard to let herself go. She had kept everything in for so long, she didn't even know how to begin to let it out.

“Will—I can't do this.”

“Yes, you can. Every time I look at you, it kills me because I can see the pain that's there. I'm so sorry. I…I never wanted you to have to go through this…but can't you see how much it hurts me that you refuse to let me help you?”

Silent tears were now streaming down her face. She wiped at them furiously, but they wouldn't stop.

“I never wanted to hurt you, Will. Don't you see? I thought I was protecting you. After our son died, I felt so empty. I didn't even know how to find that person I used to be. I saw how hurt you were, but I knew I just couldn't open up. It was too hard. So I left. I thought it would be better for you—that without me you could be happy again.”

Will moved swiftly towards her and cupped her face in his hands.

“I was miserable without you. I just wanted to help you. Please…please, Beth, let me help you now.”

With his words, something inside Elizabeth broke, and she felt all her walls crumple at her feet. She knew it was time to stop running from the past—time to face her pain.

Letting out a ragged breath, she stumbled towards him.

She felt Will pull her into his embrace, and she let herself go. All the grief, loneliness, and hurt she had felt over the last five years poured out of her.


***

As she sobbed into his chest, Will held her close. He had finally reached her and didn't plan on letting her go until she had dealt with it all.

It had taken him about a minute after she had left him in the hall for him to realize what was wrong. He knew she was vulnerable and that it might be his only chance to catch her with her guard down. He still couldn't believe he had succeeded.

His mind kept replaying her words over and over. How could she have thought she was protecting him? He couldn't believe she thought he would be happier without her. Didn't she realize that she had been his entire world?

Soon he realized her tears were showing no sign of abating, so he swept her up into his arms and carried her towards the bed. He lay back against the headboard and kept her cradled tightly against his chest.

For hours they sat thus, Will gently stroking her back as she let out everything she had kept inside for far too long. Sometime later, Will looked down at her swollen eyes and realized she was asleep. He kissed her forehead and gently slid down onto the pillows, Elizabeth still held firmly in his arms. The events of the last few hours finally caught up with him, and he let exhaustion overtake him.

***

When Elizabeth finally awoke, the sky outside her window was black. Other than her swollen and heavy eyes, she felt better than she had in a long time—like a large weight had been lifted from her. She snuggled back into Will's arms and allowed herself to enjoy being in his embrace. She knew that once he woke, it would be awkward to be lying like that, but she had missed this for far too long not to enjoy the moments she had.

Finally, she noticed his breathing changed and he was slowly rousing himself from his slumber. Reluctantly, she pulled out of his embrace and sat up.

“Hi.”

“Hey…how are you?”

“Actually, I feel okay. Thank you for that.”

He smiled and scooted up towards the headboard stretching out his body before turning back to her.

“I'm glad I could help.”

“I just wish I knew what to do now…”

“You're the doctor.”

“I know… I suppose that should make it easier, but I don't know. It's easier to say then do. You know what they say doctors make the worst patients. I guess you could compare it to someone who's trying to lose weight. Just because you know what's healthy doesn't mean you follow it.”

“Well…what would you tell one of your patients to do next?”

“We'd probably sit down and talk about it.”

“Okay, then that's what we're going to do.”

“Us?”

“Yes, you and I are going to talk about it.”

“O—Okay.”

“So, before you said you thought you were protecting me when you left. Why didn't you let me help you? You're not the only one who lost a son that day, I was grieving too. Why didn't you trust me?”

“I know…and I'm been incredibly selfish. You needed me, but Will it was just so hard. I felt like I had failed you. So you see, it wasn't that I didn't trust you, Will. I loved you so much. I couldn't be the person you needed me to be anymore. I thought it was just easier for me to leave.”

“Why did you think I needed you to be a certain way? I wanted to help you.”

“I know… I know, Will. It just seemed…ugh, do we have to talk about this?”

“Yes, we do. I'm not letting you avoid this anymore, Beth.”

She let out a large huff of air and then turned an icy glare at him.

“That won't work, Beth.”

“Ugh! Fine! I thought that if I wasn't the person you fell in love with…you wouldn't love me anymore.”

“What?”

Elizabeth felt him pull her face towards his and his intense gaze bore down into her own,

“I loved you more than anything in this world. Nothing you said would have changed that. You were my entire world, and when you left I was shattered.”

Elizabeth put her hand on his cheek and felt tears once again streaming down her face.

“I'm so sorry, Will. I'm so, so sorry that I hurt you. I loved you so much. I just thought it was for the best, but I was wrong. I was hurt and angry and thought that justified my leaving. My parents constantly fought when I was growing up, and I just never had a good example of what a marriage should be like. I learned to keep things in. I just wanted us to be happy, and I thought that by keeping my pain to myself it would make things easier for you. But it backfired and just pulled us apart.”

They sat there on the bed silently for sometime letting all that had been said sink in. Sometime later Elizabeth heard Will sigh and address her, “I'm sorry, too. You know there's still more we need to talk about, like the reasons you left.”

“I know, and we will, I promise. I owe you that much. Just not tonight. We should go check on your sister.”

“I know, but I'll hold you to it.”

Elizabeth moved to get off the bed but before she did she sighed deeply and turned back to Will. “How do I move on? How can anything ever really be okay?”

Will stared at her for several moments. “Well I'm not an expert, but something I tried was that every day I found one thing, even if it was something small, that made me happy, and I would hold onto that little bit of happiness as tightly as I could. Slowly I began to realize I had a lot of things to celebrate and be happy about. It's not that the pain goes away, Beth, but that you realize your life doesn't have to focus on the pain and the hurt. You allow yourself to be happy.”

Elizabeth slowly slipped her arms back around Will and whispered, “Thank you, Will Darcy. Thank you.”

Chapter 11

After Will and Beth parted ways outside her bedroom, he headed down to the kitchen. He hadn't eaten anything since breakfast and his stomach was grumbling.

When he entered, Mrs. Reynolds was nowhere to be found so he grabbed an apple. He then walked down to his office and sat down.

Will was having a hard time believing the last couple of hours had actually happened. His sister and Elizabeth were both on the way to recovery. He wasn't as concerned about Georgiana because he knew she was strong and had Elizabeth looking out for her. However, when it came to her recovery he had no idea what to do.

He wanted to help her and he planned on trying but he felt that Beth needed someone else's help too. She needed a woman to talk to - she needed her sister.

Dialing Jane Bingley's number, he knew how thrilled she would be when he told her the news. It had been her dearest wish to have Elizabeth “whole” again.

“Hello?”

“Jane?”

“Oh hello, Will. How are you?”

“Well I'm exhausted, to tell you the truth. Elizabeth and I were up all night with Georgiana. She's back, and she's recovering.”

“Oh Will, that's wonderful!”

“I know. It's great! I still can't believe it myself.”

“How did it happen?”

“She had a nightmare. I was terrified but I found Elizabeth and she took care of everything. She was great.”

“Yes she usually is...I will make sure I come and see Ana this week. Charles and I both will.”

“Good…I know she'll like that. But as much as I wanted to tell you about my sister. there's much bigger news I think you'd want to know.”

“What's up?”, Jane's voice quickened.

“After talking with Georgiana, Elizabeth was upset. I went to her, played on her vulnerability and I got her to break down. She's finally dealing with her grief.”

“Are you serious!? Oh Will…I…I…can't believe it. How is she?”

“She's okay actually. She cried for a long time and when she finally settled down we talked. Jane, she's been blaming herself all this time. She actually thought I blamed her for what happened.”

“I knew she probably thought something like that. Elizabeth has always had a hard time with failure and probably saw losing your child as that.”

“I think you should call her. It would probably do her good to talk to her sister.”

“I will. I'll call her as soon as possible.”

“Bye, Jane. Take care and tell Charles I said `hello'.”

“I will, bye Will.”

****

Several hours later William was still in his study going over some documents his secretary had sent him. He had been trying to work from home for the last several weeks but he knew he would need to go into his London offices soon. There were just too many things that he couldn't do at home.

He heard the door open, but he was in the middle of reading his email and didn't care to look up. However, after several moments went by without the intruder acknowledging himself, he turned away from the computer screen. Elizabeth was standing in front of his desk, with her arms crossed over her chest.

“You called Jane.”

“Beth…I know you might be upset and maybe I shouldn't have called her, but I really did think it would be good for you. Jane has been so worried about you and I thought it would be good for you to have someone else to talk to. I'm always willing to listen, but I'm not your sister.”

She sighed deeply and looked away. “I'm not angry, Will.”

Will was stunned. He had expected her to be angry, to yell at him. “You're not?”

“No. You're right; I do need to talk to Jane. I'm meeting her for lunch tomorrow. Will, I realize you only told Jane because you wanted to help me, but please talk to me before doing something like this. It is my recovery you're talking about, and I'd prefer to know what you're doing.”

“I apologize, Beth.”

“You don't need to apologize. As I said, I'm not really mad. I guess I just wanted to be a little angrier than I was.” She corners of her mouth turned up slightly.

“We both seem to have that problem.”

“Yeah well I guess we do.”

They were both silent for several moments, both intently searching the other's face trying to understand what they were feeling. It was odd for either of them to be at such a loss with each other. At one time they had just instinctively known how the other felt without having asked.

Will coughed nervously and looked away. “So you've seen my sister?”

“Yeah, we've been talkin' since we parted earlier.”

“How is she?”

“About the same. I'm really proud of her, though. I was worried that she would have a hard time, but she seems to be handling everything rather well.”

Will nodded. “Would you mind if we talked about her treatment?”

“Sure.”

“However, before we do, let's go sit on the sofa. It feel like I'm in a business meeting with you standing like that.”

She nodded and they both moved towards the sofa. Once they were comfortably seated, Will began his questioning.

“So what happens next?”

“Well…nothing much has changed…I have several techniques I'm going to try. We're basically just going to talk.”

“What about the nightmares? She was terrified last night.”

“I've prescribed some medication that should help her sleep better, but I'm afraid besides that there is not much I can do. The nightmares are a symptom of PTSD; and, until we help her overcome the disorder, I don't think that we'll be able to stop them completely. Will, even when she is completely healed, PTSD is something she may have to deal with the rest of her life. It might be more sporadic, the dreams only occurring when certain events trigger them.”

Will nodded slowly. “What can I do for her?”

“Be there for her. Just as you can't be Jane, I can't be you. Siblings have a special connection--especially ones who have the close relationships like we do.

“I will.”

“Good. Now another thing, I need you to call Dr. King tomorrow. Update him on her progress, and ask him about physical therapy. She needs to begin as soon as possible. She's already gone weeks without using her muscles and it will be hard enough as it is.”

“Will do.”

Elizabeth exhaled loudly. “Well it's been quite a day.”

“Yes it has. All right?” he glanced at her.

“I'm good, or I will be. Thanks to you.”

“I don't need gratitude, Elizabeth.”

“I know you don't. You've never wanted it, but you have it just the same.” She stood up, stretching. “Well I don't know about you but I'm exhausted. Good night.”

He squeezed her hand. “Sleep well.”

***

The next day around noon, Elizabeth pulled up to the Bingleys' home. It was made of stone with blue shutters, and had two twin oak doors at its entrance. She had always loved her sister's home. Charles and Jane had moved in about a year after they had married and it suited them both perfectly. In the back, it had a picturesque garden with a charming view of the countryside.

When she knocked on the door, she was surprised to see Charles come to the door.

“Hello Beth.”

“Hey, Charles. How are you?”

“I'm well. Do you want to come in? Jane is just upstairs with the children, they've been in a mood all this morning.”

Beth nodded and Charles led the way into the kitchen.

“I know you probably prefer coffee, but would you care for some tea?”

“Sure.” Beth smiled slightly. “You know, Charles, I'm not like many Americans who prefer coffee to tea. I think you should remember that a good portion of my life has been spent in the England.”

He returned her smile. “Forgive me for my presumption. You see it took years for me to convince Jane that tea is infinitely better than coffee.”

“I don't doubt it took you years. Jane may be the sweet person I know, but she can be very stubborn.”

“You have no idea. I've learned that lesson quite well.”

“I have no doubt about that. You know when we were younger Jane used to…”

“Jane used to what?”

Elizabeth looked up and saw that her sister had entered the kitchen.

Elizabeth answered with a teasing smile, “Oh nothing! Charles and I were just talking about you and how stubborn you are.”

“Really?”

“But only in the best way, my dear,” Charles said playfully as he kissed Jane's cheek.

“Of course.” Jane grinned at him.

“Well the children and I must dash. Are they ready to go the park?”

“Yes, they are.”

“Jolly good. Well then we'll be out of your way. Elizabeth, it was good to see you. I am very glad to hear that you're doing better.”

Elizabeth smiled, “Thank you, Charles.”

As Charles left the room, Elizabeth was pulled into a long, embrace with her sister. After a while, Elizabeth pulled back slightly and saw there were tears in her sister's eyes.

“Jane…”

“Beth I know you probably think I'm being ridiculous but you have no idea how happy that phone call made me yesterday.”

Elizabeth felt tears well up in her own eyes, and she gave her sister a watery smile. “I'm so sorry for causing you so much worry. I'm sorry I was such a horrible sister.”

“No! I will not accept your apology because there is no need. I may have been disappointed when you left, however, you are my sister, and I love you—no matter what.”

“I love you, too.”

The sisters embraced once more before Jane wiped her eyes and began pulling out the sandwiches she had made for lunch.

“I'm sorry I didn't get anything nicer.”

“Jane…please…a sandwich is just fine.”

Elizabeth and Jane were now seated at the kitchen table and Elizabeth took the time to look around the kitchen.

“You've redecorated.”

“Yeah, we did. I always used to hate the kitchen, and finally Charles and I were sick of trying to avoid coming in here so we changed everything. I think it looks better now.”

Elizabeth agreed. The kitchen was now painted a shade of yellow, which made it look bigger and brighter. The old tiled floor was now replaced with hardwood. The countertops had also been replaced for a new, cream colored stone.

“You know everything has been so crazy we haven't actually had a time to talk. How are you feeling?”

Jane took a sip of her tea before answering. “I'm great .It has been way too long since we've had a proper chat.”

Elizabeth grinned. “You know you've been in England so long that it's almost hard to believe you were ever a southern girl. Only now and then can I catch your accent.”

“I used to not be the only one. It was so amusing when we used to talk on the phone. I heard your accent gradually change back to that distinct Mississippi drawl.”

“It's strange how much we've both changed these last three years.”

“I know. The twins are almost six now.”

“They've grown so fast. I'm sorry I missed it.”

“Me too, Beth.”

Beth felt Jane give her hand a slightly squeeze as she cleared their lunch plates from the table.

“So Janie, what is it you really wanted to know?”

Jane smiled as she returned to her seat. “Janie? You haven't called me that in years.”

“We haven't had this kind of talk in years.”

“That's true. Okay, I'll tell you what I want, I want you to tell me how you are, and you can't answer with an `I'm fine.'”

“Okay then…” she paused thoughtfully, “I feel better than I have in a long time. I let a lot of grief and pain go yesterday, and I know it'll take time, but I'm finally getting better. Today was the first day in a long time that I've woken up without feeling empty.”

“Good, I'm glad. You know sweetheart…I'm here for you, any time you need me.”

“I know, Jane, and I promise that I won't shut you out this time.”

“Well…actually…there's one more thing I need to know.”

“Um…okay?”

“Why did you leave? Will never really gave a reason, and it really wasn't my place to ask him.”

“Jane…I…I can't”

“Beth…please. Share this with me.”

Elizabeth didn't know what to do. Telling what happened wasn't the hard part--she had told Charlotte--but Charlotte hadn't known Will and she was afraid of Jane's reaction. Finally, after several long minutes, Elizabeth realized that after leaving without even a word to her sister three years ago, Jane deserved an answer.

Elizabeth sighed. “Okay, I'll tell you everything. Just promise you won't hate me.”

Elizabeth felt Jane squeeze her hand again, but this time she didn't let go.

“I promise.”

“I don't even know any more really. There were just so many things that went wrong. I felt like I had been buried alive, and I couldn't climb out from the bottom. I mean it all started after our son died. I was completely lost in my grief--part of me probably still is--but at the time I was so sad, angry and ashamed. I blamed myself and because of that I started my downward spiral. I hated who I was becoming and I felt that I didn't deserve Will's comfort. So I pulled away from him, and selfishly forced him to deal all by himself. Somehow he found a way to deal without me, and he grieved and moved on. I couldn't, and I kept getting angrier and angrier because I didn't see a way out.”

Elizabeth paused and hastily wiped the tears away from her eyes. “Lydia was kidnapped and I felt guilty because I never told her about Wickham. It was my fault. Then when the police found her…I never have forgiven myself for what I let happen to her.”

“Beth, it was not your fault!”

“It was though. I knew who he was--what he had done--and I didn't tell her.”

“You had no reason to tell her. How could you have known they would meet?”

“It doesn't matter.”

“Yes, it does. You have to forgive yourself for that.”

Elizabeth shook her head. “Do you want to hear the rest or not?”

Jane sighed and frowned. “Yeah, I do. Go on.”

“After the kidnapping, Will and I became even more separated. He was never home. I don't blame him. I wouldn't talk to him, so he threw himself into work. For the next couple of months, we barely spoke ten words to each other. Then finally one day, I went to get the mail and there were the pictures.”

“What pictures?”

Elizabeth then told Jane of the incriminating pictures. She didn't leave a single detail about the pictures out. She even told her the name of the sender---Will's Aunt Catherine.”

“You thought he was cheating on you?”

She nodded. “At the time I did.”

“How could you think that? Will adored you. Do you know in the last three years he hasn't even looked at another woman?”

Even though Jane had not raised her voice, Elizabeth could hear the repressed anger in her tone.

“He hasn't?”

“No, and he never did.”

“I know…you're probably right…I mean I never really believed he cheated on me. But hurt and angry people aren't always rational are they?”

“No, they're not.”

“There was a letter with the pictures from his Aunt.”

“What did it say?”

“It's was horrible. It basically told me I was worthless, pathetic, and an idiot. It was completely insulting and degrading. She told me that since I was unable to carry the Darcy heir that Will had found someone else to do what I couldn't.”

“Why would she do that? Why would she be so cruel?”

“You know she never liked me, Jane. I wasn't good enough to be the `Mistress of Pemberley' and she hated me for it. I took away her control and she didn't like it, so I guess she decided to get even.”

“But Beth why did you let her win?”

“I don't know. When I read the letter, I wasn't mad like I normally would have been, I was just sad and ashamed.”

“So you left?”

“So I left. I was suffocating, Jane. Leaving was the only way I saw out of it.”

Elizabeth wasn't really sure what she had expected Jane's reaction to be, but she had never expected her sister to hug her again. Elizabeth and Jane clung to each other tightly, each taking and giving strength to the other. Elizabeth felt Jane loosen her grip, and she pulled back to wipe the tears from her eyes.

“Looking back now do you wish you had stayed?”

“I don't know if that's a fair question. It's taken a lot for me to get to this point and I don't know what would have happened if I had stayed.”

Jane nodded, seemingly satisfied with her response. Elizabeth looked at her watch and realized it was about time that she headed back to Pemberley. She still had to make a stop in Lambton and she needed to be home before dinner.

“I better get going. It's getting late.”

“Yeah you probably should.”

“I'll call you soon, okay?”

Jane smiled, and they both walked towards the front door. Elizabeth gave her sister a kiss on the cheek and went back to Pemberley.

***
Jane shut the door behind her sister with a heavy sigh. She could barely believe all her sister had told her. She knew there wasn't much she could repair between Will and Elizabeth as she could never ask Elizabeth what she had done with the letter and pictures. She could also never tell Elizabeth what Will had done for Lydia—had done for her. She only knew because Charles had let it slip once and she had been sworn to secrecy. However, there was someone who she could ask to relieve some of Elizabeth's guilt.

Jane picked up the phone. It rang three times before a female voice answered.

“Hi Lydia?”

Chapter 12

“Ana? Are you awake?”

Georgiana's eyes fluttered open and she smiled sleepily at Elizabeth. Elizabeth had just returned from Jane's and had brought up Georgiana's dinner. On seeing she was awake, Elizabeth moved further into the room and set the tray down in front of her.

Georgiana smiled her thanks. “So, did you have a nice chat with Jane?”

“Yes. It was good to talk to her. She asked about you. I told her you were making progress.”

Smiling slightly, Georgiana added, “Will called Dr. King today.”

“Oh good...I was hoping he would remember. What did Dr. King say?”

“Well, that he wants to talk to you, but he thinks that physical therapy should begin as soon as possible.”

“Oh, that's wonderful! I was hoping he would say that!”

“I want to get started soon. I hate feeling so helpless. Beth, I need you to be honest with me. Do you think the physical therapy will really work—that walking will be easy again?”

Elizabeth weighed her answer carefully before replying. “Listen Ana, as much as I want to promise you that you will be able to run and walk normally, I can't. You are one of the strongest people I know, so if anyone could do it, it would be you.”

“Thank you,” she whispered.

“I bought you something while I was out.”

“Really? What is it?”

Beth reached into her purse and extracted the journal from it. She laid it on the bed next to Ana.

“A journal?”

“Yes. Now, before you tell you're too old for a journal, I will tell you that in the past I have kept one myself.”

“You have? You never told me that before.”

“Because I knew if I told you, you would go looking for it.”

Georgiana smiled mischievously. “Maybe.”

“Anyway, I want you to use this journal as you would a best friend. Don't be afraid to write down whatever you're feeling. I will never read it unless you want me to. I hope that during our sessions you might be willing to share parts of it—it would help you recover better. However, if you decide you do not want to share, I will not force you.”

“So I just write down anything I want?”

“When you wake up in the morning, write down how you feel. If you have a bad dream, write down as much as you can about it. If you're feeling nostalgic, write down your feelings. It's just supposed to help you express your feelings without fear of reproach or censure.”

Georgiana took the journal in her hand and flipped through the unused pages.
“Thank you. I think it's a good idea.”

Elizabeth smiled slightly. “Good. Now eat up; you have all that strength to regain.”

***

As Elizabeth walked in the garden the next morning, she took a deep breath of morning air. She loved waking up early and watching the sunrise. Although not many of the flowers were in bloom this time of year, Elizabeth still loved the garden's atmosphere. The leaves crackled beneath her feet as she walked.

“Beth?”

She turned around at the sound of Will's voice. “Good morning.”

“What are you doing up so early?”

“I wanted to watch the sunrise…you?”

“I was just about to take a run down by the lake. Would you like to join me?”

“Are you sure you could keep up?” Elizabeth cocked her head to the side.

Arching an eyebrow he responded, “I think I can handle it.”

“Well then you're on, buddy."

Elizabeth and Will walked down to the edge of the lake and both stretched out their tight limbs.

“How long are we running for?” Elizabeth watched as Will programmed his watch.

“Well are you up for a little race?”

She pursed her lips. “Bring it on.”

Will shook his head, smiling. “Well then, I think we should run a couple of laps to warm up, and then we'll see who stayed in the best shape the last three years.”

“How far is that?”

“I think about three kilometers or so. Is that a problem?”

“I'll be fine.”

The pair started their warm-up in a light jog, each loosening up their muscles. They were both silent during the warm-up, preferring to focus on their bodies. Finally, after they had circled the pond twice, Will turned his head and glanced down at Elizabeth.

“So are you ready to back out yet?”

“Get real, Will. We're just getting started!”

Elizabeth heard Will chuckle behind her and took the opportunity to pull ahead. Running had always been her favorite form of exercise; because, in those moments, it was just about her and the ground that lay ahead. Running had once been an activity that just allowed her to have a few minutes to herself. The solitude had been relaxing and she had enjoyed the sensation of the wind rushing through her ears.

However, after she moved to San Diego it became an escape—an escape from the past and from the pain.

It felt almost surreal being back at Pemberley, running around the same path she had run countless times in years past. Her step felt lighter as if the past and the pain she'd been running from had been lifted. For the first time in years, she was able to enjoy running again.

Continuing down the lane, she could hear Will's feet behind her. Before she knew it, he was right beside her. She took her eyes off the path and glanced at the man beside her. He still looked good; his muscles flexed and pulled tight as he kept her pace. She listened to his breathing and knew he hadn't lied when he said he had stayed in shape.

Elizabeth was about to turn her head back to the path when Will caught her eye. She gave him a challenging smile.

“You ready slowpoke? It's our last lap.”

“Slowpoke? You know, just for that. I'll have no mercy on you when you lose.”

“Let's go then.”

The race began, each of them steadily increasing their pace, trying to keep themselves a step or two in front of the other. Elizabeth's chest burned and tightened as she breathed in the cold, morning air, however, she was determined to win. So she pushed through the pain and broke into a dead sprint. In the distance, she could see the tree they had appointed as the finish line.

At that moment, everything else seemed to vanish. She could no longer hear or see Will beside her; she just kept her focus on the tree. Pumping her arms and legs hard and fast, she reached for the tree. Suddenly, just before she reached it, she stumbled and went down.

Will was immediately at her side. Elizabeth saw the concern in his eyes and tried to reassure him that she was fine. Will knelt next to her and helped Elizabeth sit up.

“Are you sure you're not injured?”

“I promise, Will, I'm fine. Although I probably will walk a little funny, I don't think it's serious. I think I just twisted my ankle slightly.”

“I know, I saw.”

Elizabeth gave him an impertinent smile. “Well, if you saw me fall then that means you were behind me. So I think technically that means I win.”

Shaking his head Will answered, “I don't think so. You never finished the race.”

Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “Whatever. You just can't take it that you got beat by a girl.”

“And let me repeat…you never actually won the race.”

“Well then, I guess I'll have to challenge you to a rematch.”

“A rematch, huh?” Elizabeth nodded. “You're on, but not today. I don't want you hurt yourself again.”

Sighing, she nodded again. “It better be soon though.”

“Oh it will be.” Will stood up and extended his hand to Elizabeth, helping her up. “Come on, let's cool down.”

They leisurely walked down the path back towards the gardens. As they talked softly about the weather, Will keeping a watchful eye on her ankle. When they reached the gardens, Beth and Will both spread out and stretched again. Will had finished stretching first and moved to sit on the stone bench behind her. She could feel his gaze burning into her back.

Finally, when she could take the silence no longer, she asked, “What is it, Will?”

She heard Will cough nervously, so she swung around to face him. He stared at her for several more moments before speaking.

“Can I ask you a question?”

Elizabeth shrugged. “I guess so.”

“After the doctor told us that you probably wouldn't be able to have any more children, why didn't you let me help? Why did you not allow the doctors to run those test. I know how important having children was to you, so why wouldn't you let me fly those specialists in? I guess I just never understood that.”

Sighing Elizabeth rested her arms against her knees and stared at the ground. She knew he hadn't been lying when he said he wanted to talk about everything, but his question had taken her by surprise.

“If you're not ready to talk about it, Beth, I'll understand, but I hoped someday you'd be able to tell me.”

“No, I'm fine. I was just surprised, that's all.” Elizabeth took a deep breath. “There were a couple of reasons actually. I mean, by that point I had been in the hospital a week; I was really just ready to go home. Also I guess…I mean you know I can be stubborn sometimes—”

Will's snort made her look up. He arched a questioning eyebrow at her. Elizabeth rolled her eyes.

“Fine…okay…I'm very stubborn…all the time.”

“Thank you.”

Elizabeth glared at him and shook her head. “Seriously though, Will, I had convinced myself that none of the tests or specialists would give me any hope. I was so grief stricken that I just didn't want to deal with the pain of it not being possible.”

Although he nodded in understanding, he was quiet for several moments, thinking her words over. He looked back up at her, cocking his head slightly to the side.

“I'm sorry you felt so hopeless, Beth. I wish…I wish I… God I don't know what I wish. I'm just sorry.”

Elizabeth nodded. “Me too.”

“What about now, Beth?”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, I mean there was no time limit on any of those tests. You could still try. I mean, who knows what technology they've developed in the last three years. You may still be able have children one day. I still have the numbers for all those specialists.”

Elizabeth eyes glittered with unshed tears.

“Will, thank you for the offer, but right now I just don't know what I want. I mean if I took those tests and it still said that having children would be impossible for me, it would be like losing everything all over again.”

“But I mean, you always wanted children…how can you just give up?”

“Will it's true I always wanted to be a mother and that hasn't changed—”

Will's frustration was gnawing at him. “Then what's the problem? I mean you have to try, Beth.”

Elizabeth stood up and began pacing in front of the bench, letting out a frustrated groan.

“Please let me help you do this.”

“Will, stop! Okay? You don't understand. When I was younger I never wanted to be a mother because I never wanted to be the kind of mother my mom was. As I got older that view started to change because I realized that, if I was a mother, I would love the child no matter what. However, it wasn't until after we got engaged that I really started wanting to be a mother. I would always think about what our children would be like: how they'd look, how they'd sound, who they'd be. I wanted us to have our own family.”

She felt Will's hand close around her own, and he led her over to the bench and sat beside her.

“I understand.”

Elizabeth let out a ragged breath and leaned her head against Will's shoulder. Will didn't say anything else, allowing her to think. She pulled back and looked into his eyes.

“Will, I appreciate all you're trying to do. But I don't know about the test; I don't know if I'm ready for that yet. I need time to think about it. I mean, I know there are other ways to have children, but I always imagined I'd have children with you; and, since things are…difficult between us now, I just don't see how that would ever be possible. So I'm not sure if I want to open up old wounds for no reason.”

Will let go of Elizabeth's hand and moved closer to her on the bench. They were both silent for several minutes. Elizabeth grabbed Will's hand and squeezed it slightly. He looked over at her and smiled reassuringly.

“I understand, Beth.”

She gazed at him. “I know you do.”

They both were silent for some time—just relaxing in the morning air.

“Will?”

“Yeah?”

“I know that Brandon's and Anne's deaths have hit you harder than you've let on…that all of this has been harder than you let on, but I just wanted to let you know you're not alone, either. You can talk to me; or if you'd rather talk to Charles or Jane that's fine just talk to someone.”

“Is that your professional opinion?”

“No, I just know you. You always try to take care of everybody else first. Just remember to take of yourself too.”

“I will.” He gave her a half-smile before looking down at his watch. “Uh-oh. It's almost 8:00. I have to get on the phone with the London office. I got an email late last night telling me to call them first thing. You ready to go back into the house?”

“Yeah I need to call Dr. King about the physical therapy,” she mentioned as they began to make their way towards the house.

“Ana told me she was excited about getting started.”

“I worried though because I know how much she wants to make progress and I'm just afraid she'll be discouraged if things don't progress as fast as she'd hoped.”

Will grabbed Beth's arm to stall her and met her gaze with his own. “Please don't worry yourself. We both know she can't be rushed into recovery she needs to take things at her own pace--she'll eventually undersand that. I truly believe everything will be okay in the end. I mean things always work themselves out; you just have to give it time.”

Chapter 13:

After taking a shower, Elizabeth went to her desk and pulled out her day timer. She looked up Dr. King's number and dialed.

“Dr. King's office. May I help you?”

“Yes. This is Dr. Elizabeth Bennet. I need to talk to him about a patient of mine Georgiana Lewis. Is he available to talk?”

“One moment please.”

Elizabeth tapped her fingers impatiently on the desk. It was the one thing she hated about doctors' offices—the waiting. After listening to several minutes of classical music, she heard Dr. King's voice on the other end.

“Dr. Bennet?”

“Yes, hello Dr. King.”

“What can I do for you today?”

“Well William told me he called you yesterday about his sister beginning physical therapy and I was told you wanted to talk to me.”

“Yes, yes right. Mr. Darcy told me that his sister has made substantial mental and emotional progress and would like to begin physical therapy as soon as possible.”

“Yes that's true.”

“Well I wanted your professional opinion. Do you think she's ready?”

“Dr. King she's not at a hundred percent but I do feel she's ready for physical therapy. Keeping her cooped up her at Pemberley will not be good for her health. She needs to do something besides just sit at home. So.. I think she's ready.”

“Right then. Well I trust your judgment. I would however like to see her soon. I want to examine how she is healing. I would be willing to send Mr. Darcy and yourself the names of some physical therapists--ones who are especially good at dealing with accident victims.”

“Thank you Dr. King. I know William and I would appreciate that. When would you like to see her?”

“Well I'm not sure. Why don't you talk to my secretary and she can set something up.”

“Okay. I'll talk to you soon. Bye.”

“Bye, Dr. Bennet.”

Elizabeth stayed on the line for five more minutes scheduling an appointment for Georgiana for the following Tuesday. It was progress—they were making progress.

***

“Good morning, Ana.” When Elizabeth entered her friend's room she immediately noticed the change. The curtains were drawn back and there were fresh flowers covering every hard surface in the room.

“Did Will do all this?”

“Surprisingly he didn't. Mrs. Reynolds is actually the one responsible for this. She said that no one can recover in a room that makes you feel depressed, so she said it needed to be bright.”

“Well I can't argue with her logic.”

“Neither can I.”

“So are you ready to talk?”

“I guess…I didn't wake up last night.”

“Good! It means the medicine is working. However I'm afraid that after we have our session today you could have another nightmare tonight.”

“Okay… but eventually these sessions will help me get rid of the dreams entirely, right?”

“Hopefully.”

“So where do we start?”

Elizabeth sat down on the edge of Ana's bed. “Well how do you feel today?”

“I'm okay. The pain is getting easier to manage.”

“Good. How are you emotionally?”

“I'm trying. Am I allowed to just talk?”

“Sure.”

“I guess just lost. Brandon and Anne were my whole life. Do you remember when Brandon and I met?”

“Of course I do. I convinced Will to introduce you.”

“Will and you had only been married a couple months. We were all so happy back then. How does your life go from complete happiness to the depths of despair in the blink of an eye?”

“You know that's hard thing about being a doctor. People have so many questions that they expect you to know the answer to, but half the time I'm just as lost as you are.”

“You know when my parents died I didn't understand death. It didn't seem possible that they just ceased to exist. I mean my mother was so full of life, I just didn't understand how she could be gone. I think my father couldn't understand it either; you know he was so heartbroken after her death. I think he worked himself to death. Honestly, I don't think fifteen years has given me a real good understanding of it. I just keep expecting them to be here.”

“I know. Death is a hard thing to accept. That's why you were out of it for so long. However, you have to accept it. Ana, look at me.” The young woman turned. “You cannot go back, and you cannot change what happened. Death is a part of life; and, even though it's not fair that some are taken from us so early, we have to find a way to move on. Ana, I made the mistake of not accepting what happened, and it cost me everything. Learn from my mistakes. Take this grief and heal, but then realize it's okay to be happy again—you're not required to be miserable forever. I think I just learned that one too.”

“I'll try, Beth.”

“Good!”

“Beth, can I ask you a question?”

“Sure.”

“Has it worked?”

“Has what worked?”

“Well you know. Allowing yourself to be happy. Do you feel happier?”

“I do, actually.” Beth smiled slightly. “It was strange—after I started looking for things I could be happy about, I realized I had a lot of good things in my life. I see now that when you shut yourself you hurt everyone around you. When I refused to grieve, I fell into a deep hole that I'm just learning how to climb out of. But trust me, Ana; as hard as it seems to imagine right now, there is goodness and happiness in this world.”

“Well I hope so.”

Beth gave Ana's hand a comforting squeeze. “Well I hope tomorrow we can start talking about the accident. Do you think you'll be ready?”

Ana nodded. “I think so.”

“Well, what I'm planning is to start talking about it and see if you can remember. If not, there are a number things I can do to help the memories come back, because you have to deal with the trauma of the accident.”


“Okay. I'll be ready. Before you go though would you mind handing me the phone. I realized there are several people I need to call, including my office.”

“Are you sure you're up for that?"

"I think so."

"Well then don't let me stop you. I'll see you later."

Elizabeth handed Georgiana the phone and left the room.

***

Closing the door behind her, Elizabeth made her way downstairs. She was craving blueberry scones and was hoping Mrs. Reynolds could help her—no one made them like Mrs. Reynolds.

However, when she entered the kitchen the only person occupying the room was Will. He was sitting at the kitchen table, hastily shuffling papers into his briefcase while trying to quickly drink down his cup of coffee.

“Hey.”

He looked up at her. “Hi. I was actually about to go looking for you.”

“Really what's up?”

“Well I have a conference call with the London office in about ten minutes and I'll probably be busy all morning.”

“Oh okay. I actually need to run to Lambton. Something is wrong with my laptop so I want to take it to the computer place.”

“You know I wouldn't mind looking at it. Is it one of my company's laptops?”

“Yeah but you're busy. I can just get it checked out. Anyway I kinda would like to get out of the house for a while.”

“Right then. I guess I'll see you back here later?”

She nodded. “Bye.”

***

It took Elizabeth longer than she expected to get her laptop fixed. She ended up spending half the afternoon in Lambton. As she entered the house, she heard a loud bang from the kitchen and decided to investigate.

“What in the world are you doing?” Elizabeth asked as she took in the scene before her. The kitchen was a complete disaster. There was flour on all the counter tops, a broken egg on the floor, countless bowls and pots spread out, and there was Will in the middle of it all slaving over a hot stove.

“I'm cooking,” he replied without turning around.

Elizabeth snorted, “You can't cook. Where is Mrs. Reynolds?”

“She asked for the weekend off to go visit her sister,” he said turning around to face her, “so I decided I would cook dinner.

Elizabeth grinned at the adorably hopeless picture he presented. Will had stains all down the front of his apron and a smudge of flour on his cheek and nose.

“And what do you find so amusing?”

“You”

“Me? What are you talking about?”

“You've got something right here.” She pointed to the side of her nose.

He tried to wipe it off but because of the amount of flour on his hands he only made it worse. After watching him suffer for several minutes Elizabeth decided to try and help.

“Will,” she said wet a paper towel, “let me help you. First we'll get this smudge off your face and then I'll help you cook.”

“Humph! I could do it on my own!”

“Yes but we would all die,” she said sweetly as she approached him.

“No you wouldn't. I'm a great cook, just a little out of practice.”

“When did you last cook then?”

“That's not important.”

Elizabeth grinned again and began wiping off his nose and cheek.

“You are one big mess, Mr. Darcy.”

“Am I?”

“Yes, just look at the state of you. What would your sister say?”

“She would probably be horrified and then laugh at me.”

Before Elizabeth knew what was happening a white cloud descended around her, and she began to cough.

“What…(cough)…was…(cough)…that…”

She looked down at her clothes and realized they were all covered in flour. She then peered up at Will who appeared very amused.

“You! You did this!”

“No never.”

“I am going to get you for this!”

Battle lines were drawn—Elizabeth and Will acting like ten-year-olds trying to find things to fling at each other. Elizabeth went for the eggs and started chucking them at him. Two hit their mark, and she laughed gleefully. Will snatched the ketchup from the refrigerator and squirted her unmercifully. Elizabeth ran to the stove, grabbed the uncooked pasta sauce and a measuring cup, and flung the sauce at Will's head. Most of it ended up on the wall behind him, but a big dollop hit him square on the cheek. He ran to the sink and grabbed the hose. He pointed it towards Elizabeth and sprayed for all he was worth. Several moments later, Elizabeth waved a white dish towel in surrender.

Will laughed merrily and decided to make his way back to Elizabeth. Her shirt was clinging to her body and had red ketchup stains all down the front, and her face was almost covered with flour, but now it was wet mess sticking grotesquely to her face. Will, on the other hand, was not much better. His clothes were egg-stained, and the pasta sauce was still covering much of his neck and cheek. They chuckled at the sight of each other. Will moved closer in an attempt to get a dish towel from the drawer, but the water still on the floor made it very slippery, and he started to fall. Tumbling down, he grabbed Elizabeth's hand for support; but, instead of keeping them both up, he took her with him.

***

Both of them were now splayed on the floor, laughing hysterically. Elizabeth couldn't believe what they had done. As her laughter died down, she looked back up at Will, who was now staring at her.

“What?” He asked.

Will gaze had turned soft and his expression thoughtful. “I don't think I've heard you laugh that much in a long time.”

“I haven't had anything to laugh about.”

He gentle took her chin in his hand and turned her to face him with a wistful smile on his face. “You have a beautiful laugh. I've missed it.”

Elizabeth blushed. “Well then you'll just have to give me things to laugh about.”

Grinning widely at her he said, “That was fun.”

Elizabeth felt her insides mush as he smiled at her. “That was insane.”

Deciding she needed to get her mind off of how adorable he looked, she picked up the white rag that still by her side and offered to help him clean himself up. Elizabeth wetted the towel a bit with her tongue and leaned across his chest to wipe of his cheek. She felt his breath on her cheek and suddenly she realized how close they were.

“Beth…”

Her hand stopped moving and she looked at him. He was looking at her lips intently and his eyes were sparkling with an emotion see hadn't seen in a long time. She swallowed and let her eyes meet his gaze. His fathomless dark eyes held her captive in their stare. She watched silently as his hand came up and gentle tucked a piece of her hair behind her ear.

“You're so beautiful,” he said as his hand gently caressed her face.

Elizabeth had now stopped breathing. She couldn't believe what was happening. She knew she should stop him that they would regret what was about to happen but she couldn't help herself—she missed him too much. So she slowly leaned further into his touch and then placed a gentle kiss on his lips…

Chapter 14

If twelve hours ago someone had told William that his wife would ever kiss him again, he would have doubtless thought them insane. However, now that she was, it seemed incredibly perfect. The gentle pressure of her lips was completely intoxicating. He knew they shouldn't be kissing—that it was probably too soon—but somehow he couldn't seem to break away from her. It had been too long since they had shared that type of connection.

He felt her deepen the kiss and suddenly it scared him. He needed to see her eyes, to make sure she wasn't going to regret this later. Will pulled away and gazed down at her, slowly tucking a wayward strand of hair behind her ear. Opening his mouth to speak he realized he had no idea what to say to her. He looked at her and realized she seemed to be having the same problem.

“Beth…I…” He shook his head about to begin again when his phone rang. He cursed and looked back up at her.

“Take it,” she urged.

He looked at her apologetically. “I'm really sorry about this.” Looking down at the Caller ID, he saw that it was Charles. “Charles, what is it?”

“Sorry, Will. Are you okay?”

Will shook his head. “I'm fine. I was just.. sort of in the middle of something.”

“Oh! Well sorry but I really need your help.”

“What's wrong?”

“The numbers for the Matlock Merger just aren't adding up and I really need your help. I know you've been busy with Georgiana and we've tried not to bother you but this is an emergency.”

He sighed in frustration. He had begun to feel increasingly guilty about his leave of absence from the company. After Georgiana's accident, Charles had offered to take over until Will was able to resume his duties. Charles had joined the Darcy team right out of college along with Will. His intelligence and natural charisma had propelled him through the Pemberley Technology ranks, and he was now the Marketing Executive. So, by taking on Will's CEO duties, he had doubled his workload. Recently, Will had begun to take his responsibilities back little by little as he still wanted to stay at home as much as possible for his sister. However, he now realized he needed to leave her in Elizabeth's care and take back his job. He had left it alone far too long, and his company now needed him.

“Charles…how can I help?”

“Well I'm in the Derby Offices with Margaret and Derrick. We've been going over these figures all day and just can't seem to work them out. We really need your help. As you know, we're supposed to get back to Matlock by tomorrow morning; and, without your help, I'm afraid we'll miss the deadline.”

“Yes, um, I'll be there as soon as I can.”

He heard Charles sigh in relief. “Great. We'll see you then.”

As he shut his phone, he let out a large breath and leaned his head back again the cabinet. He looked up and realized Elizabeth was no longer sitting beside him. She had leaned back against the cabinet, and was drying her face with a towel. She gazed down at him and gave him a wry smile.

“So…”

“It looks like I have to go. I'm really sorry, but this merger is pretty major and Charles has already taken on a lot of responsibility—they need me.”

She walked over and offered him her hand. “Go then.”

“But look at all this…” He waved his hand around to the mess that was now surrounding them. “I can't leave you to clean all this by yourself—”

“Listen, you've spent a couple of weeks holed up here, and now your company needs you. I know how important it is to you…so get going. I can take care of this mess on my own.”

“But we also need to talk.”

“And we will…I'm not going anywhere. I'll be here when you get back.”

“Are you sure you'll be okay?”

She smiled slightly. “Get a shower and go be Mr. CEO. We'll talk later.”

“Thank you.” With a squeeze of her hand, he was gone.

***


As soon as he left, Elizabeth sank down onto the bar stool—her head in her hands. She couldn't believe what they had done. How had she let it happen? She shook her head, relieved that Will was gone.

She had kissed him and it had been heart-stopping. She lifted her hand to her lips, reliving the memory. Sighing, she shook her head slightly as she remembered what a great kisser he was. Great, this is just what I need—to fall for Will again. She needed time to think—they both did—time to process what had happened between them. Standing, she decided to start on the kitchen—it would take her long enough to clean it.

***

After Will had finally gotten all the grime out of his hair and was ready to leave for the offices he decided to check on Elizabeth. When he reached the kitchen he leaned against the door jam and watched as she scrubbed the filthy counters.

“Hi.” He noticed she jumped slightly before she turned around. “Sorry I didn't mean to frighten you. I was just wanted to check on you before I left. The kitchen looks…better.”

She laughed slightly. “I wish. I've got a lot more work to do. We really made a mess. Mrs. Reynolds is going to kill us.”

He grinned. “Yes, she will. Again I'm terribly sorry to leave this all on you.”

“Like I said, it's fine. I don't mind. Go save your company.”

“Thanks again. I'll see you later.”

“Bye, Will.”

***


Six hours later, Margaret, Derrick and Charles were able to breathe a sigh of relief. All the i's had been dotted and the t's crossed; the merger proposal was finally ready to send back to Matlock Co. The group packed up their belongings and was all ready to head home.
Will sat back in his chair and ran a hand over his face. He was glad they had been able to work everything out; this merger was extremely important to his company.

As Margaret and Derrick said their good-byes, Charles and Will lagged behind. “So, care to tell me what's been wrong with you all evening?”

“What are you talking about, Charles?”

“You've been completely distracted all evening. I was just wondering if you wanted to talk about it.”

Will sighed deciding it was better just to get it out in the open. “Elizabeth kissed me.”

Charles stared at her in disbelief. “What?”

“And I kissed her back.”

“You did?” When Will nodded in response he asked. “How did that happen?”

Will then explained in detail their impromptu food fight in detail. As he looked back up he saw Charles unsuccessfully suppressing a grin. “So there we were on the floor and she was laughing. You know I love her laugh and I hadn't heard it for so long. I just forgot for a moment everything that had happened between us; and then, before I knew what was happening she was kissing me and I was kissing her back. Then you called.”

“That was what I interrupted earlier?”

He nodded. “Yes and then I had to leave. We still haven't been able to talk about what happened.”

Charles looked at him remorsefully. “I'm very sorry about that.”

“Don't be. You needed me and this is my company. I just wish it had come at another time.”

“Well then you better get home then, right?”

Will sighed. “I know I need to talk to her. I just don't know what to say. I mean part of me wishes that kiss never happened but another part me just wants to kiss her again. Is it normal to want to kiss the woman who broke your heart?”

Charles sat down across from him. “Will I know she hurt you and maybe you feel like that means you shouldn't desire her but I mean you have loved Elizabeth for a long time and I don't think that you can easily separate your head and your heart. Oh fudge! I'm not explaining myself very well, am I? Well, what I mean to say is that you haven't…dated a lot in the last several years—not that I blame you or anything—so it's perfectly understandable that when you see Elizabeth again you would still be attracted to her. Sometimes our bodies don't always listen to our hearts.”

Will snorted. “That's understatement, Charles. She's beautiful, she always has been. But I just…I just don't know where to go from here…”

“Well are you in love with her?”

“You've asked me that before and I still can't answer. I mean I love her there's no question about that but being in love with her is an entirely different matter and right now I'm not too sure if I'm ready to fall back in love with her.”

Charles nodded briskly. “Right then. Well, I think you need to go home and talk to Beth. Georgiana is better, you two have kissed…its time you have a chat. Get everything out in the open and then, together, discuss where you go from here.”

Standing up, Will smiled at his friend. “You're right, Charles. I'll see you later.”

***

When Will arrived back home, he decided to check the kitchen first. He thought it possible that she was still cleaning—their mess had been big enough. However, when he reached the kitchen, it was now spotless but Elizabeth-free. He wandered through the house hoping she was still up, although he knew it was late, and she might have gone to bed.

He saw a light was still on in the living room and peered in. At first he didn't see her; however, as he moved to turn off the light, he realized she was sleeping on the couch. He looked down at her and smiled. She was never very good at waiting up for him. He remembered the nights when he used to have to work late and she would attempt to stay up and wait for him; she barely managed to stay awake. He pushed some stray hair away from her face and smiled. Deciding that she looked too peaceful to wake up, he pulled her into his arms and walked towards the stairs.

As he gently moved with her up the stairs, she began to stir. “Will…” she sighed sleepily.

“I'm taking you up to bed, Beth. You fell asleep on the couch.”

“Oh okay…” She sighed again and snuggled back into his arms.

When they finally reached the guest suite, he gently laid her down on the bed. He stared at her for several moments before moving to leave. He shut the door behind him and sighed--he supposed their talk would have to wait for tomorrow.

Chapter 14

If twelve hours ago someone had told William that his wife would ever kiss him again, he would have doubtless thought them insane. However, now that she was, it seemed incredibly perfect. The gentle pressure of her lips was completely intoxicating. He knew they shouldn't be kissing—that it was probably too soon—but somehow he couldn't seem to break away from her. It had been too long since they had shared that type of connection.

He felt her deepen the kiss and suddenly it scared him. He needed to see her eyes, to make sure she wasn't going to regret this later. Will pulled away and gazed down at her, slowly tucking a wayward strand of hair behind her ear. Opening his mouth to speak he realized he had no idea what to say to her. He looked at her and realized she seemed to be having the same problem.

“Beth…I…” He shook his head, about to begin again, when his phone rang. He cursed and looked back up at her.

“Take it,” she urged.

He looked at her apologetically. “I'm really sorry about this.” Looking down at the Caller I.D., he saw that it was Charles. “Charles, what is it?”

“Sorry, Will. Are you okay?”

Will shook his head. “I'm fine. I was just sort of in the middle of something.”

“Oh, well sorry, but I really need your help.”

“What's wrong?”

“Well, the numbers for the Matlock Merger just aren't adding up, and I really need your help. I know you've been busy with Georgiana and we've tried not to bother you, but this is an emergency.”

He sighed in frustration. He had begun to feel increasingly guilty about his leave of absence from the company. After Georgiana's accident, Charles had offered to take over until Will was able to resume his duties. Charles had joined the Darcy team right out of college along with Will. His intelligence and natural charisma had propelled him through the Pemberley Technology ranks, and he was now the Marketing Executive. So, by taking on Will's CEO duties, he had doubled his workload. Recently, Will had begun to take his responsibilities back little by little as he still wanted to stay at home as much as possible for his sister. However, he now realized he needed to leave her in Elizabeth's care and take back his job. He had left it alone far too long, and his company now needed him.

“Charles…how can I help?”

“Well I'm in the Derby Offices with Margaret and Derrick. We've been going over these figures all day and just can't seem to work them out. We really need your help. As you know, we're supposed to get back to Matlock by tomorrow morning; and, without your help, I'm afraid we'll miss the deadline.”

“Yes, um, I'll be there as soon as I can.”

He heard Charles sigh in relief. “Great. We'll see you then.”

As he shut his phone, he let out a large breath and leaned his head back again the cabinet. He looked up and realized Elizabeth was no longer sitting beside him. She had leaned back against the cabinet, and was drying her face with a towel. She gazed down at him and gave him a wry smile.

“So…”

“It looks like I have to go. I'm really sorry, but this merger is pretty major, and Charles has already taken on a lot of responsibility—they need me.”

She walked over and offered him her hand. “Go then.”

“But look at all this…” He waved his hand around to the mess that was now surrounding them. “I can't leave you to clean all this by yourself—”

“Listen, you've spent a couple of weeks holed up here, and now your company needs you. I know how important it is to you…so get going. I can take care of this mess on my own.”

“But we also need to talk.”

“And we will…I'm not going anywhere. I'll be here when you get back.”

“Are you sure you'll be okay?”

She smiled slightly. “Get a shower and go be Mr. CEO. We'll talk later.”

“Thank you.” With a squeeze of her hand, he was gone.

***

As soon as he left, Elizabeth sank down onto the bar stool—her head in her hands. She couldn't believe what they had done. How had she let it happen? She shook her head, relieved that Will was gone.

She had kissed him and it had been heart-stopping. She lifted her hand to her lips, reliving the memory. Sighing, she shook her head slightly as she remembered what a great kisser he was. Great, this is just what I need—to fall for Will again. She needed time to think—they both did—time to process what had happened between them. Standing, she decided to start on the kitchen—it would take her long enough to clean it.

***

After Will had finally gotten all the grime out of his hair and was ready to leave for the office, he decided to check on Elizabeth. When he reached the kitchen, he leaned against the door jam and watched as she scrubbed the filthy counters.

“Hi.” He noticed she jumped slightly before she turned around. “Sorry, I didn't mean to frighten you. I just wanted to check on you before I left. The kitchen looks…better.”

She laughed slightly. “I wish. I've got a lot more work to do. We really made a mess. Mrs. Reynolds is going to kill us.”

He grinned. “Yes, she will. Again, I'm terribly sorry to leave this all on you.”

“Like I said, it's fine. I don't mind. Go save your company.”

“Thanks again. I'll see you later.”

“Bye, Will.”

***

Six hours later, Margaret, Derrick and Charles were able to breathe a sigh of relief. All the i's had been dotted and the t's crossed; the merger proposal was finally ready to send back to Matlock Co. The group packed up their belongings and was all ready to head home.
Will sat back in his chair and ran a hand over his face. He was glad they had been able to work everything out; this merger was extremely important to his company.

As Margaret and Derrick said their good-byes, Charles and Will lagged behind. “So, care to tell me what's been wrong with you all evening?”

“What are you talking about, Charles?”

“You've been completely distracted. I was just wondering if you wanted to talk about it.”

Will sighed, deciding it was better just to get it out in the open. “Elizabeth kissed me.”

Charles stared at her in disbelief. “What?”

“And I kissed her back.”

“You did?” When Will nodded in response, he asked, “How did that happen?”

Will explained their impromptu food fight in detail. As he looked up, he saw Charles unsuccessfully suppressing a grin. “So there we were on the floor and she was laughing. You know I love her laugh and I hadn't heard it for so long. I just forgot for a moment everything that had happened between us; and then, before I knew what was happening, she was kissing me and I was kissing her back. Then you called.”

“That was what I interrupted earlier?”

He nodded. “Yes, and then I had to leave. We still haven't been able to talk about what happened.”

Charles looked at him remorsefully. “I'm very sorry about that.”

“Don't be. You needed me, and this is my company. I just wish it had come at another time.”

“Well, you better get home then, right?”

Will sighed. “I know I need to talk to her. I just don't know what to say. I mean part of me wishes that kiss never happened, but another part me just wants to kiss her again. Is it normal to want to kiss the woman who broke your heart?”

Charles sat down across from him. “Will she is your wife. I think it's normal to want her. I mean…I…you've always been attracted to her…oh fudge! I'm not explaining myself very well, am I? Well what I mean to say is that you haven't…dated a lot in the last several years—not that I blame you or anything—so it's perfectly understandable that when your wife comes back, you would still be attracted to her. Sometimes our bodies don't always listen to our hearts.”

Will snorted. “That's an understatement, Charles. She's beautiful; she always has been. But I just…I just don't know where to go from here…”

“Well, are you in love with her?”

“You've asked me that before and I still can't answer. I mean I love her—there's no question about that—but being in love with her is an entirely different matter, and right now I'm not too sure if I'm ready to fall back in love with her.”

“Right, then. Well, I think you need to go home and talk to Beth. Georgiana is better, you two have kissed—it's time you had a chat. Get everything out in the open and then, together, discuss where you go from here.”

Standing up, Will smiled at his friend. “You're right, Charles. I'll see you later.”

***

When Will arrived back home, he decided to check the kitchen first. He thought it possible that she was still cleaning—their mess had been big enough. However, when he reached the kitchen, it was now spotless but Elizabeth-free. He wandered through the house hoping she was still up, although he knew it was late, and she might have gone to bed.

He saw a light was still on in the living room and peered in. At first he didn't see her; however, as he moved to turn off the light, he realized she was sleeping on the couch. He looked down at her and smiled. She was never very good at waiting up for him. He remembered the nights when he used to have to work late and she would attempt to stay up and wait for him; she barely managed to stay awake. He pushed some stray hair away from her face and smiled. Deciding that she looked too peaceful to wake up, he pulled her into his arms and walked towards the stairs.

As he gently moved with her up the stairs, she began to stir. “Will…” she sighed sleepily.

“I'm taking you up to bed, Beth. You fell asleep on the couch.”

“Oh, okay…” She sighed again and snuggled back into his arms.

When they finally reached the guest suite, he gently laid her down on the bed. He stared at her for several moments before moving to leave. He shut the door behind him and sighed. Their talk would have to wait for tomorrow.

Chapter 15

Ring…ring…ring

Beth awoke with a start and looked around frantically for the source of the incessant ringing. Finally coming back to consciousness, she remembered she had left her cell phone on the desk and picked it up.

“Hello?” Her voice was still thick with sleep.

“Beth, is that you?”

“Yes, this is Beth. Who is this?”

“Your sister.”

“Lydia? Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I'm fine…”

“Don't you know it's like two in the morning?

“Oh, damn it! I'm so sorry, Beth. I totally forgot about the time difference. I just really wanted to talk to you.”

“Are you okay?”

“Yeah…yeah I'm fine. I'm actually doing great.”

“Good,” Elizabeth replied slowly wondering what her sister was up to. “So what constituted such a late night call?”

“Well, you see, Jane called me yesterday, and I've spent all day trying to figure what to say when I called; and I guess, when I finally figured it out, I didn't really think about the time difference.”

Elizabeth put her hand against her forehead and sighed. “It's okay. I'm awake now. So Jane called?”

“Yeah, she was pretty worried about you. She thought I could help.”

Puzzled, she replied, “How so?”

“Well, she told me you were still pretty messed up about what happened to me. She thought we should clear the air.”

“Really?” Elizabeth asked bitterly. “I can't believe she told you that — so much for sisterly confidences.”

“Elizabeth! It wasn't like that. She called me because she knows I don't blame you — I would never have blamed you for what happened. It wasn't your fault. I let myself be seduced by that man. I knew he was bad news, Elizabeth, but I didn't care.

“I'm not proud of what happened and, trust me, I haven't forgotten about it, but the pain I felt afterwards is gone now. I'm actually happy. Please don't make yourself miserable on my account. You don't deserve that.”

“How can you not blame me? I knew who Wickham was and never told you.”

“You didn't tell me because you never thought you needed to! I never told you I was dating Wickham, so you had no way of knowing what was going to happen.”

“But…”

“Please, Beth! Listen, it was a terrifying experience, and, yeah, I wish it had never happened, but it did. As painful as the whole ordeal was, something beautiful came out of it — my little girl. I am so thankful I have her — no matter the amount of pain her father brought me.”

The line went silent as each regained their composure. Finally, realizing she needed to say something, Elizabeth took a deep breath and said, “Thank you for telling me that. It's good to know you're okay.”

“I am good. My life is good.” Lydia paused. “Hey, when you talk to Will next, thank him again for me, okay. I don't know what would have happened if he hadn't found us. Or made sure Wickham was punished —”

“What?”

“I said to make sure you tell Will thank you for helping the police find me."

Confused, Elizabeth asked. "Lydia, what are you talking about?"

Lydia gasped. “Oh God! You don't know?

"No I guess I don't."

"Beth, I'm so sorry. I thought you knew.”

Elizabeth head was spinning. “What happened? Tell me Lydia. I want to know.” Her tone was adamant.

“I don't know that much, Beth. I mean I was really messed up back then. I don't really remember much. I just know that Will helped the police recover me then he helped track down Wickham.”

“I can't believe he never told me," Elizabeth paused lost in her own thoughts, "Why would he not tell me something like this?”

“I don't know, but please talk to him before jumping to conclusions. You know it's probaly just--”

“Lydia," she interrupted, "thank you for everything. I promise I'll call you back as soon as possible, but I need to go.”

“Beth…wait…”

“I'm sorry. I love you, but I just need to think right now. Bye!”

Elizabeth slammed the phone into the receiver, sprang from the chair, and began pacing back and forth. She was angry, confused, and hurt, yet completely grateful. She didn't understand how Will could help save her sister's life, yet not tell her — it just didn't make sense.

***

Elizabeth didn't go to sleep again, because she spent the rest of the night pacing her room trying to understand why Will had kept the truth from her.

Finally, around seven she went downstairs to the kitchen to wait for Will to wake up. She wanted to talk to him as soon as possible. Fortunately, Elizabeth didn't have to wait long as Will appeared downstairs not half and hour later.

“Hey,” she said softly, realizing from his appearance he must have just awoken as he was still in his sleep clothes, his hair tousled.

“Morning. You're up early again. Ready for our rematch?” He sent her a teasing smile.

She didn't return it. “No, actually I wanted to talk to you.”

His eyes widened before he slowly nodded. “Um…okay…let's talk then.” He stared at her for several moments as if trying to read her thoughts. Sighing, he turned his gaze away and continued, “But do you mind if I put on some tea first? I can't ever think clearly in the morning without it.”

Five minutes later the couple was comfortably situated in Will's study, both finally ready to talk. Although what they had in mind for the topic of conversation were remarkably different. They began at the same time.

“Beth —”

“Will —”

Will squeezed her hand gently. “Go ahead.”

“Okay.” Elizabeth took a deep breath, “Well, I had phone call last night from my sister.” She stopped and looked at him expectantly.

Baffled he replied, “I'm afraid you're going to have to clarify as to what sister you mean — you have four of them.”

“Lydia.”

“Okay...what did she have to say? Is she well?”

Elizabeth smiled slightly. “She's wonderful, actually. She wanted to make sure I knew she didn't blame me for anything that happened between her and Wickham — that she was happy.”

He gave her hand another squeeze still completely puzzled. “Well…that's good… I mean, it wasn't your fault.”

“I think I'm finally starting to believe that now.” She looked up at Will and regarded him closely. “That wasn't the only thing she told me, though.”

“No?”

“You can imagine my surprise when she told me that you found her three years ago —that you rescued her and helped find Wickham.”

Will sat back, stunned. “Um…wow…huh…”

“Is that all you're going to say…” Elizabeth was feeling exasperated.

He rolled his eyes at her. “No, I just — I can't believe she told you.”

“Well, in her defense she thought I would already have known. She actually wanted me to thank you.”

“Oh. Listen I —”

“Why didn't you tell me?”

“I don't know.” He leaned back on the couch, staring up at the ceiling. “You see, at first I couldn't tell you. The police had me sign an affidavit stating that until the trial I couldn't talk to anyone about what I'd seen. I mean I could have told you I had to testify, but I knew you'd want the whole story, and I couldn't give it you. So I waited. After the trial I had planned on telling you, but it just became easier and easier not to.”

“But why? You saved my family and helped put away a criminal. Why wouldn't you want to tell me that?” She tried to keep the hurt out of her voice. “Part of me is so grateful, yet another part is so angry with you for not sharing this with me.” She paused, staring at him intently. “I mean, don't you get how much this explains. I have been up since about three and have thought about everything that happened, and it makes sense now why you were gone so much. You were looking for my sister and Wickham. Do you know that all this time I thought you had been avoiding me? Did you know that I thought you spent so much time at work to avoid me?”

Will's face went ashen. “You thought I was avoiding you?” he asked softly.

She nodded. “I didn't know what to think.”

“No…no… I would never… I wasn't trying to avoid you.” He reached up and slowly wiped away the tears that had started to pool in her eyes. “I just wanted to fix it for you. I thought that if I could find your sister, everything would be okay. I didn't want to hurt you. You see there's more to it than your sister knows.”

Elizabeth placed her hand over his. “Explain it to me.”

“Are you sure?”

“Tell me. I want to know everything.”

He regarded her carefully, still unsure; but, after reading the determination in her eyes, he simply sighed and began. “After your uncle contacted me about Lydia's disappearance, I questioned him and learned that your sister had been dating Wickham. I immediately went to the police and offered them my assistance. I also hired a private investigator to help find her and began using all of my connections to discover her whereabouts. Eventually all that paid off, and we found her.” He returned his gaze to her face, knowing this next part would be harder to hear. “She was a mess, Beth. I never had seen anyone like that. We took her to the hospital, and they took care of her. I was so angry after that. I spent every waking moment looking for Wickham. I hated him so much. You see, I had the impression he had tried to use my wife's sister to hurt me, but it wasn't me he wanted this time.” Will stopped again and looked down at her with a pained expression.

Elizabeth squeezed his hand. “How were you wrong?”

“Wickham wasn't going after me this time. He wanted you.”

She gasped. “What?”

“He wanted you. It was his original plan — to kidnap you. Lydia, however, interrupted his plans, so he took her instead, hoping he could eventually trade the two of you. He's insane.”

Elizabeth released his hand and abruptly stood up. “Oh my God!” She walked away towards the window. “He wanted me. Are you sure? I mean that's sick. He wanted to trade us? I can't believe it…”

Will went to her and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. “He was obsessed with you. At the trial it became apparent that he had been stalking you for months.”

She turned and looked at him incredulously. “He was stalking me?”

Will nodded solemnly. “Yes. He's in jail now, Beth. He can't hurt you. I won't ever let him hurt you.”

The pair's gaze remained locked as Elizabeth tried to process everything Will had said. The memories of those long months after Lydia's disappearance rush backed to her. Elizabeth groaned and let her head fall into her hands, wishing there were some wall she could beat her head against. “I'm so stupid.”

“Beth —”

She looked back up at him knowing she couldn't talk to him then. “I…I…need time to think about this, Will. I really wish you had told me sooner. I'm sorry but I need to be alone. Excuse me.” And with that, she fled the room.

***

As he watched her retreating form, Will sighed sadly and sat back down. He wanted to go after her but knew her well enough to still respect her wishes. Deep down he knew he should have told her before but hadn't wanted to burden her, but now he had ruined their tentative peace. He had been shocked with her topic of conversation. He had been so sure she would want to talk about the kiss. Yet, it appeared their kiss was the furthest thing from her mind.

***

The next week came and went for the couple without any significance. Although they were polite to one another, their new-found ease seemed completely gone. Will kept himself busy by throwing himself back into the company and Elizabeth by spending more time with Georgiana. The first time they were actually together for any period of time was the day of Georgiana's appointment with Dr. King. For two long hours they had driven in the car together completely ignoring each other and only speaking occasionally to Georgiana.

The ride back to Pemberley was a bit more cheerful. Dr. King had given Georgiana his seal of approval, allowing her to begin physical therapy. Will had even broken their silence to ask Elizabeth's opinion on choosing the right physical therapist. Elizabeth, though she was uneasy around Will, offered her advice but nothing else. Both were too nervous to mention the subject that was keeping them both awake at night.

***

It was decided that Georgiana would see a Dr. Welsh, a physiotherapist, whose offices were located in Derby. Dr. Welsh, however, would see patients in their own homes, and it was decided that, for the first few sessions, he should come to Pemberley so Georgiana would be more comfortable.

So, several days after the appointment with Dr. King, the three sat in the living room awaiting Dr. Welsh. Elizabeth cast an approving glance around her favorite room. She had always loved how cozy it appeared with its plush carpet and comfortable furnishings. It had been one of the only rooms in the house Will and she had decided to redecorate together.

When the doorbell rang a little after noon, Will immediately went to the door. As the doctor entered behind Will, Elizabeth was surprised to notice that he wasn't an older man as she had thought, but a sharply dressed thirty-something whose confident demeanor quickly put her at ease.

He greeted the three cordially with a firm handshake and a respectful nod. After they resumed their seats, the doctor quickly got down to business. He told them that he had read over Georgiana's file but felt he needed more information before he could properly assess his patient. True to form, Elizabeth took charge of the conversation, knowing the reticent nature of both Darcys.

"Well, as it probably says in the file, Georgiana was severely injured in a car accident about two and half months ago. I was called about two weeks after it happened because the trauma of the accident had caused Georgiana to become completely withdrawn. She and I have spent the last two months working through the emotional fallout from the accident. Dr. King and I both agree that she has made sufficient progress emotionally that her physical trauma can now be dealt with."

Dr. Welsh nodded. "I see. Tell me, when did Georgiana become alert?"

"About ten days ago. Georgiana and I have a session every day. She's dealing with her grief, and I think being able to walk around normally and performing everyday tasks will help her emotional state significantly."

"Okay." He turned towards Georgiana. "Mrs. Lewis, do you feel you're ready to start physiotherapy*?"

Nodding, she replied quietly, "I do. I really hate having to rely on a wheelchair to get around. I mean, I had a sprained ankle, but it really doesn't hurt too badly anymore, but Dr. King insisted I continue to use it until I saw you. But to be honest, I just want to start functioning normally again.

Dr. Welsh gave her a sympathetic smile. "I understand, and I hope that, after today's session, you will be able to get rid of the wheelchair. You see, you haven't used any of those muscles in several months, so are basically going to rebuild the muscle mass you lost.” He paused and looked back down at his notes. “How about physically? Are you still in any pain from your injuries?"

"Well, aside from my broken wrist, no. Occasionally, if I move the wrong way, my ribs still hurt, but I take a small dosage of pain medication, usually just to help me sleep. The other injuries I sustained were mostly internal, and I still have some bruising, but Dr. King did a great job."

"Yes, he's a great doctor," he paused and wrote a note in her file. "You do understand that this process isn't easy. Depending on your progress and work ethic, it could take weeks or months. I have no doubt you'll be able to walk and run eventually; but, whether you have the same athletic ability you did before, I can't say as it will depend mostly on you. We will have to be extra careful during our sessions and make sure you don't overexert yourself, because I don't want to damage any of the stitches Dr. King made on the inside. We will take things slowly at first, but I think you're going to be fine.”

Letting out a sigh of relief, Georgiana whispered, "Thank God." Elizabeth smiled at her and then looked towards Will. He seemed to be studying the doctor carefully, and Elizabeth realized he had yet to form a firm opinion of the man. As Elizabeth and Will prepared to adjourn to the study so they could begin their first session, Will spoke up.

"Dr. Welsh, I have a question." Dr. Welsh turned towards Will and nodded. "How many times a week will you and my sister need to meet?"

"Well, usually in the beginning I like to meet at least two or three times a week depending on my patient's schedule. However, as we continue this process, the number will decrease as Mrs. Lewis improves."

"Is there anything we need to do at home to make sure my sister recovers quickly?"

"I would recommend allowing her to dictate what she feels up to, although I will be giving her a pair of crutches today, and I think that, as she progresses, she should try to use them a little less every day. Also, allow her to start doing things for herself again, asking for assistance if she needs it. I also want to warn you that it is probable she will be sore after our sessions because she'll be working muscles she hasn't used in almost three months. My recommendation for sore muscles is a hot bath with Epsom salt.”

Will nodded and stuck out his hand. "Thank you, doctor."

***

Will and Elizabeth spent the next hour in Will's study in silence. Will was typing away on his lap top, and Elizabeth was reading a book, waiting for Georgiana's session with the doctor to conclude. Elizabeth, however, had not read a single word on the page as she kept stealing glances at Will while trying to build up enough courage to speak to him. She knew she had a lot to say but didn't know where to start. As Will continued to type, she covertly studied his profile.

"You're staring at me." The sudden sound of Will's voice made Elizabeth jump in surprise. Will turned his head to look at her. "Do you need something?"

Elizabeth blushed deeply at being caught. "I...um...you see...no." She shook her head dumbly.

Will gave her a slight smile, as if reading her mind, before turning back to his laptop. Elizabeth swallowed harshly, mentally chastising herself for her stupidity. Several minutes later she closed her book with a loud sigh and turned towards Will.

"I'm sorry for staring before." Will shrugged, his fingers stilling above the keys. "I just… I just…”

He turned towards her. “You just, what?”

She sighed. “I've been avoiding you.”

“I know,” he said coldly.

“Probably not for the reasons you're thinking, though.”

His intense gaze was now boring into hers. “Really? Okay, enlighten me.”

She swallowed audibly, unable to meet his eyes. “Okay… I've been trying to… You see I wanted to tell you that I'm sorry. I wish there was a better way to tell you that because 'sorry' just doesn't seem like enough. I've spent the last week trying to figure out how to apologize."

“What are you apologizing for exactly?”

“Well…everything. I'm trying to apologize for all the hurt I caused you, but I really don't know how to do it.”

“It's not necessary, Elizabeth,” he said moving the computer to the coffee table.

“Yes it is. I hurt you; and, even though I don't have the words to express to you how much I wish I could take away the pain I've caused, I want you to know that I apologize from the bottom of my heart. I truly am sorry. You see, the other day when you explained what happened with Wickham, a lot of things that hadn't really made sense fell into place in my head.” She paused. “There never was any other woman.”

His eyes hardened. “No, there never was.”

Elizabeth sighed and rubbed her hands across her eyes. “I'm sorry.”

“Why? Why would you ever believe that I would do that to you? I mean you know me better than anybody; and, even if I hadn't loved you as much as I did, you were wife. I would never disrespect you that way.”

Blinking back the tears, Elizabeth nodded. “I know you wouldn't, and I'm not trying to make excuses, but I want you to understand. Everyday was miserable. We hardly ever spoke, and I hardly ever saw you because you were constantly gone on trips. At the time I, didn't know you were looking for my sister and Wickham — all I knew was that you were gone. So, when I got those pictures, at first I didn't believe them, but then somehow it made sense. They explained why you were never there. I was jealous, too.”

Will's head shot up. “What do you mean jealous? Jealous of what?”

“The girl in the picture.”

“I don't understand,” Will said, shaking his head.

“You once told me that I made you happy. After our son died, I knew I hadn't made you happy in a long time; so, when I received those pictures, it hurt to see you laughing with someone else. I mean, besides a hug there was nothing remotely incriminating about them, but it hurt to see that someone else could make you smile. I guess I missed what we had between us, but I just didn't know how to get it back. So somehow I believed I would be better if I left — that you would be happier if I left.”

Elizabeth looked over at Will, seeing that his intense gaze was still focused completely on her. “I don't really understand. I mean I don't get how you could ever think I would be happier without you.”

She reached for Will's hand and breathed a sigh of relief when he didn't pull back. “Listen, it doesn't make sense. I was wrong — utterly and completely. At the time though…it seemed right. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry," she paused shaking her head, "I was wrong about a lot of things and caused you a lot of pain. I wish there was a better word than `sorry' — that's why it's taken me all week. I didn't know how to tell you how sorry I am.”

Will slowly pulled his hand from hers, turning his face away. “Okay.”

She grabbed his hand again. “Don't do that, Will.”

“Do, what?” he asked fiercely, his gaze returning to her face.

“Don't act like what I did was okay. I hurt you. I understand you think I'm fragile and that, if you yell or get angry with me, I'm going to break into a million pieces, but I promise I'm not. You helped me — let me help you. Don't you see that if you keep burying all that hurt you'll never be able to forgive me?”

“Why does that matter? You're leaving in a couple of weeks. Why does it matter to you if I forgive you?”

“Because I don't want you to turn into a bitter, resentful man who is never willing to trust anyone again." She sighed and looked down, "And…well because no matter where we are in ten years, I don't want you to think badly of me. I don't want all your memory of us to painful ones. So please don't keep burying your pain. I'm a prime example of why you shouldn't.”

His cold gaze continued to burn into her face. “Fine. You want to know how feel? I was angry and still am. You said you loved me, but you left me. You weren't the only one who was grieving. I needed you, and you pushed me away. You accused me of cheating on you. Do you understand how impossible that would be for me to do? Even now, I want to hate you because that would be easier for me.”

Elizabeth choked back tears. “Then hate me. If it'll make things better for you, hate me.”

“Don't you get it? I can't. I can't hate you. I never could. Because I made mistakes too. I lied and kept things from you because I thought they were for your own good, but I realize how wrong I was. I'll accept your apology, if you'll accept mine.”

Elizabeth shook her head. “You don't need to apologize for anything.”

“Yes, I do. To be honest, I never expected you to apologize and didn't realize how much I needed to hear it until you did.”

“Fine. If it will make you feel better, I'll accept your apology.”

“Thank you.” Elizabeth squeezed his hand and met his gaze. For how long they sat there neither knew. They both sat staring at the other trying to take in all that had been said. However, the moment was not to last as they soon heard the sound of voices in the hall. Elizabeth stood up slowly. “I should probably wash my face before they come back.”

“Yeah, that might be a good idea.” Neither one made a move; they kept their gazes intent on each other. Elizabeth caressed his cheek hesitantly and whispered, “I'm glad we got all of this out the open. I'm tired of secrets.”

Will nodded. “Me, too.”

“I should go. Their session will be done soon.” Will nodded again, and Elizabeth smiled slightly before leaving the room.

Chapter 16

The next few days passed swiftly as Georgiana continued to improve. After her third session with Dr. Welsh, Georgiana told Elizabeth during one of their sessions that she wanted to talk to Jane about the memorial service for Brandon and Anne.

“Are you sure?”

“Not really, but it's time to let them go. They deserve to rest in peace.”

Elizabeth squeezed Georgiana's hand and promised she would arrange a dinner as soon as possible.

Later, as Elizabeth left Georgiana's room, Elizabeth smiled pleased with the progress Georgiana was making. Her biggest concern now was not helping Georgiana deal with her grief but to helping her through the emotional fall out from the accident.
Although the number of flash backs and nightmares had lessened, Elizabeth still had a session with Georgiana everyday. She wasn't positive that the nightmares would ever completely go away but Elizabeth wanted to help her as much as possible.***

***

When she finished speaking with Georgiana, she went to the phone and called Will. He had been spending his days in the Derby Office recently, working on the merger with Charles and his other associates.

“Pemberley Technologies. This is Karen speaking. How may I help you?”

“Hey, Karen, this is Elizabeth. Is Will in?”

“Oh, yes, I believe he his. One moment. I'll transfer you.”

Several moments later, Elizabeth heard Will's voice on the line. “Elizabeth?”

“Hey, Will.”

“Is everything okay?”

“Yeah, it's fine. I just talked with Georgiana, and she told me that she wants to invite the Bingleys to dinner to talk with them about their plans for the memorial service.”

“She's ready for that?”

“I think she is.”

“Well then, okay. How about tomorrow?”

“That sounds fine with me. I'll call Jane.”

“Right then. I actually think I'm going to call my aunt and uncle—Richard's parents—and ask them to visit the day after the dinner. They have been calling me constantly wanting to know about Georgiana, but I've kept them away knowing she really wasn't up for visitors.”

“Okay…do they know I'm here, Will?”

“Yeah, I told them.”

“Good I just wanted to make sure it wouldn't be a shock for them.”

“No, it'll be fine. Thank you for taking care of dinner.”

“No problem. I'll talk to you when you get home.”

After they said their good-byes, Elizabeth placed the phone back into the cradle and smiled slightly. The last few days had been good for them as well. Although they still were both still sorting out their feelings from their talk, they seemed to be able to return to the tentative friendship they had been developing before Lydia's phone call and their kiss.

Elizabeth sighed wistfully as she remembered the kiss. It had been perfect; but, then again, their kisses always had been. She moved to the window and looked out at the countryside, her thoughts filled with William Darcy.

Elizabeth, however, wasn't the only woman that morning who was thinking of William Darcy. Across the English Channel, Caroline Bingley was as well.

***

At the age of twelve, Caroline Bingley had met the boy she felt she was destined to marry, although the boy in question, Will Darcy, seemed to disagree. She had spent the last seventeen years trying to convince him otherwise. When she first noticed Will's attraction to Elizabeth, she had thought it would be a passing fling. There was no way Will would ever connect himself to such a low-class person. She spent the next few years trying to prove to him that she was the better woman. In the end she had failed miserably.

When she had discovered Will's engagement to Elizabeth, she had been furious. Caroline had seen her life's plan going down the drain. She had never given up hope, though, and had been patiently waiting for any crack in their cookie-cutter marriage that she could exploit. She didn't have long to wait; their marriage imploded without her help.

Caroline had used Elizabeth's escape back to the States to her advantage and had attempted to comfort Will in his wife's absence. Although he was not receptive of her attentions, she hadn't let it bother her. She was determined she would not lose him this time.

Caroline had spent the last three years attempting to get into Will's good graces. She had finally felt she was making progress, too, until the night of the Morehouse Charity Gala. That night, dressed in her most expensive designer gown, she had sensed it was time for her to make her move. Unfortunately, Caroline's timing could not have been worse.

For Will's part, attending Charity Galas had always been insufferable. He hated the pretense of it all. After he married Elizabeth, they had at least become tolerable because he knew she was there—her presence had always seemed to calm him. Now, attending them without her was excruciating.

Caroline, however, was oblivious and had attempted to attach herself to him from the beginning of the evening. She had even planned it so Will was forced to drive her home. Once they had arrived at her house, she had unsuccessfully tried to seduce him. Will had been firm in his rejection, and Caroline was furious. The next day she had hopped on a plane to Paris to soothe her wounded ego.

Now, after spending four months in the company of debonair and charming French men, she was once again ready to face Will Darcy. While she was in Paris, she had spent her days devising a plan to attract Will's notice. She was sure this time her plan would work.

***

Caroline stormed into Netherfield that afternoon ready to take a quick shower before heading to Pemberley. She had expected someone would be around to greet her—it had been almost four months. They had to have missed her.

“Charles…” She stamped her foot in indignation—where was her brother?

Finally, after realizing no one was going to appear, she went to his office and banged on the door. Several moments later Charles opened the door, his face red with anger.

“Caroline…what do you think you're doing?”

“Is that any way to greet your sister?”

“I was on a conference call. Why didn't you ring earlier to tell us that you were coming home?”

“Well, I guessed it slipped my mind. Where is Jane?”

“She's at the park with the children.” Charles turned and walked back into his office.

“How…adorable.” She rolled her eyes at Charles's back.

“Did you enjoy your time in Paris?”

“Yes…it was lovely.” She inspected her newly manicured hand. “Well, I'm going to go shower. I need to check in on dear Will.”

“I don't think that's a good idea, Caroline.”

Her eyes flashed dangerously. “Why not? I'm sure he missed me.”

“Caroline…”

“Don't start, Charles. He has had plenty of time to get over…what's her name. It's time he moved on.”

“Actually what I was going to say is that we're actually having dinner at Pemberley tonight.”

“How perfect! I guess I'll see him then.”

“You weren't invited, Caroline.”

“Well, he obviously didn't realize I was going to be home.”

Chares sighed in exasperation. “Obviously.”

“Well, I should go get ready.” She turned back toward the door.

“Wait…” Charles sighed. “Before you go there is something I need to tell you.”

She rolled her eyes. “What?”

“Georgiana was in a car accident.”

Caroline gasped. “Is Will okay?”

Charles shot her a disgusted look. “Will wasn't even in the accident, Caroline. Georgiana was badly injured and Brandon and Anne died.”

“Oh…that's…terrible. How has Will been holding up?”

“You're unbelievable, you know that?”

“Well of course I'm worried about Georgiana. She is such a dear girl. But everyone always asks how the injured person is feeling. They never ask about the family.”

“Right…Will's fine. He's been wearing himself thin though—looking after his sister.”

“I bet he's in need of some comforting, and I know just who can help.” She bit her lip and thought of all the pleasurable ways she could help comfort him. “Well, if that's all, I really need to go get ready. I want to be able to leave as soon as possible—you know in case Will needs me.”

“Caroline…” He called after her but Caroline was already up the stairs. Charles shook his head. He hadn't been able to tell Caroline about Elizabeth's return and didn't want to imagine what would happen when she found out.

***

When the doorbell rang that evening, Elizabeth hurried to answer it. She was excited about seeing her sister and smiling brightly when she swung the front door open. However, instead of the beloved face of her sister, she encountered Caroline Bingley. Her smile instantly faded and she looked in horror at the sight before her.

Caroline was dressed in a short orange dress and orange satin pumps. Her eyes immediately narrowed when she saw Elizabeth, and they spent the several moments eyeing each other with pure hatred. Finally, Elizabeth realized she needed to say something; so, with a voice as cold as ice, she greeted her.

“Caroline, what an unexpected surprise.”

“What are you doing here?”

Elizabeth decided to have a little fun. “I live here.”

“You what? CHARLES!” Caroline turned sharply to face her brother and Jane who were now making their way up the drive, their two children in tow.

“Yes, Caroline?”

“Why didn't you tell me that this…this thing was back in England?”

Charles opened his mouth to reply, but Elizabeth beat him to it. “Excuse me, Caroline but my name is Elizabeth, and I'm a person not a thing. As a guest in this house, you should remember that it's very impolite to insult the hostess.”

Caroline scowled menacingly. “Eliza, if you think for one moment that I'm going to let you--”

“Elizabeth, are you going to invite our guest in? It's freezing outside.” By this time, Will had made his way to the front door and was now standing behind Elizabeth.

“Oh, Will darling, how good to see you. Our hostess must have forgotten her manners.”

Elizabeth refrained from the impulse to roll her eyes as she stepped aside. Caroline immediately entered and attached herself to Will. Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth turned to greet the rest of the Bingleys. She gave her niece and nephew a hug. Will was able to dislodge himself from Caroline long enough to give them both a hug as well. He told them to go find their Aunt Ana; both gave him a bright smile before running down the corridor to Ana's temporary suite.

Elizabeth greeted Charles and Jane warmly. While she was helping them remove their coats, she overheard Caroline talking to Will.

“I was so sorry to her about dear Georgiana, William.”

“Thank you.”

“How is she doing?”

Elizabeth spoke up. “She's doing really well. Her physiotherapy sessions have improved her condition tremendously.”

“Oh that's great, Beth!” Jane smiled warmly at her sister.

Caroline shot Elizabeth a dark look. “I don't believe I was asking you, Eliza.”

Elizabeth looked back at her equally annoyed. “It's Elizabeth.”

Ignoring her, Caroline turned back to Will. “So, is Georgiana better?”

“You really should ask Beth; she's Ana's doctor.”

“Oh…so is Eliza just here in a professional capacity, then?”

“Well, I guess you could say that.”

She looked back at Elizabeth with a victorious glare. “That explains a lot. I would hate to think that someone would take advantage of your grief.”

Elizabeth snorted. “If you'll excuse me, I'm going to go check on Ana.”

As she left the room, Jane followed her into the corridor. “Beth!”

Sighing, she turned back to face her sister. “Yeah?”

“Oh Beth! I'm so sorry. She just arrived back from Paris today and insisted on joining us. I did try to call you earlier.”

“Jane, really it's all right. I haven't looked at my phone all day. I'm just surprised. I mean, I figured I'd see her sometime. I just wasn't looking forward to it. Does she have no compassion? I hate her…I really do.”

“I am surprised by her attitude. I thought she might have been more tactful.”

“Please, Jane. That woman is horrible. Has she been after Will since I left?”

“You could say that.”

Shaking her head, Elizabeth replied, “I should have known. She'll stop at nothing to get him.”

“He's never looked her way even once.”

She gave a wry smile. “I don't doubt it. I need to go check on Ana.”

“Okay. Remember, it's just one night. You can make it.”

***

As Beth left the room, Will looked after her longingly, wishing there was some way he could leave Caroline's company, as well. However, judging by her death grip on his forearm, he doubted that would be possible.

“Really, Will, I can't believe you allowed her back in your house.”

“Caroline…” Charles replied warningly.

“What? I mean I'm surprised that you would speak with her. It's sad really how haggard she appears now—she's really let herself go.”

Will was about to reply when Jane reentered the living room. She smiled warmly at him and came up alongside Charles, taking his hand.

“So, how have you been doing lately, Will? Charles told me you're resuming your duties at the company.”

“I've been doing well, Jane. Charles did a great job while I was gone, but I don't think you mind having your husband back.”

Jane smiled affectionately at her husband. “Well…sometimes…”

Charles rolled his eyes. “Don't mind her, Will. She thinks she's funny.” Jane responded by giving Charles a playful swat on his arm.

Will gazed fondly at the couple. He was glad they had decided to invite the Bingleys over for dinner. It reminded of him of all the times he and Elizabeth had entertained them in the past. Usually Ana and Brandon would join them, as well—they had made quite a group.

“Look who's here…” Will returned to the present at the sound of Elizabeth's cheerful voice. At her side, Georgiana was moving slowly into the living room on her crutches. Alexander and Isabella followed the pair into the room and ran to their parents.

He was impressed with how pretty Georgiana looked. She was dressed in a dark suede skirt that went to her knees and a blue sweater. He noticed that she had even applied some makeup. Although she still appeared fragile and pale, she looked healthy; and, for that, he was thankful. He now realized why Beth and Ana had spent the entire afternoon locked in her room.

Jane and Charles greeted Georgiana warmly. Caroline, however, was not as tactful.

“Oh dear, Georgiana! I just heard about your horrible accident.” She walked over and gave her an awkward hug. “How awful it must have been for you. Oh, you look so tired. I really don't think your doctor has been doing a good enough job.”

Georgiana's eyes narrowed. “Thank you for your concern, Caroline. You're wrong though. Beth has done a great job, and I couldn't be more thankful. I am still recovering, though.”

Caroline's smiled faltered. “Well of course you are—such an ordeal.”

“We're very proud of Ana's progress.” Will smiled lovingly at his sister who shyly accepted his praise.

Returning to his side, Caroline said, “You know, Will, if you had called, I would have come home immediately to help you. It must have been so terrifying for you—”

Elizabeth cut her off. “You're not a doctor, Caroline.”

“Maybe not, but that doesn't mean I couldn't have offered my support. You were probably in desperate need of comforting. You know I would have been more than happy to help.”

William gave her a weak smile. “Thank you, but I managed.”

“Well, if you ever are in need of anything—anything at all—you can call me at any time.”

***

Dinner that night was a complete disaster. When they had entered the dinning room, Caroline had immediately taken a seat next to Will and attempted to thwart off anyone who tried to enter into conversation with him. Soon Caroline got tired of receiving only monosyllabic answers and graciously allowed Will to speak with the others at the table.

Free from Caroline's clutches, Will looked across from him and flashed Elizabeth a quick smile. “Mrs. Reynolds told me you were a great help to her earlier in the kitchen. Thank you.”

Elizabeth smiled and said, “It was no trouble. I never mind helping her. She's such a great woman.”

“Yes, she is. She even made some of her special chocolate cake for dessert.”

“Really? Well then she is very good at keeping secrets, because I was in that kitchen with her for three hours this morning and she never said a word.”

“Well, she said she wanted it to be a surprise.”

“You know, I'm angry with you now because you have officially ruined my dinner,” Elizabeth said teasingly.

Will quirked an eyebrow. “Me? Whatever have I done now?”

“Well, before you told me there was chocolate cake for dessert, I was very excited about dinner, but now I won't be able to enjoy the food because I'll spend the whole meal wishing it was time for dessert.”

“I see your cravings for chocolate haven't changed,” Will said between chuckles.

Caroline had been watching their exchange and growing angrier by the second. Finally, when she could stand it no longer, she turned to Elizabeth and said in a loud voice, “Eliza, are you sure that eating dessert would be a good idea?”

Elizabeth pursed her lips in annoyance. “It's Elizabeth—and why would my eating dessert concern you?”

“Well I don't want this to sound rude, but you seem to have gained some weight since I last saw you. I just think that maybe cutting down on dessert would be the best thing for you.”

“Caroline!” Charles said furiously. “That's quite enough!”

“What? I was just trying to give Eliza some advice. I was just going to suggest to her that she might consider changing her diet altogether—I could give you the number for my nutritionist.”

Elizabeth held her temper—determined that Caroline not have the satisfaction of seeing her explode—so she took a deep breath and replied, “Thank you for your concern, but I think I'm just fine.”

Flashing a sickly sweet smile, Caroline said, “Well, it was just some advice. I'm sure William here would agree with me.” She turned to Will. “Don't you think Eliza has changed quite dreadfully since the last time we saw her?”

Elizabeth swallowed nervously, watching his face intently. Will took a deep breath and then turned his intense gaze on her. He studied her appearance for several moments before answering Caroline. “Actually, Caroline, I think she has changed very little. If anything, time has made her more beautiful.”

Reposted from backup board...

Chapter 17

Rolling over again in bed, Elizabeth sighed—desperately trying to relax—but Will's words were ringing in her ears.

If anything, time has just made her more beautiful.

She remembered the moment he had uttered those words—her stomach had dropped, and her heart had begun beating at a dangerously rapid cadence.

As she sighed again, a large smile erupted on Elizabeth's face. He still thinks I'm beautiful after everything that happened. Her smiled widened, and she let out a little laugh. He thinks I'm beautiful.

However, that statement scarcely compared to the one he had whispered later when everyone adjourned to the living room for coffee and cake.

So, Eliza, have the tabloids rung you, yet?” Caroline had resumed her sneering innuendo.

“No, why should they?”

“Well, I just thought they'd be interested in the fact that you were back in England. You know it was a huge scandal when you left.”

“I didn't realize they'd be interested.”

“Of course they were. I mean because of Will's company and wealth—you know it was talked about for weeks. The press had a field day when they found out you had left,” Caroline said contemptuously.

They had been sitting in the living room; and, when Caroline had begun speaking, the room had become deathly quiet; no one was sure what to say at such an awkward moment. Finally regaining her composure, Elizabeth said, “Caroline, I think we should find something more pleasant to talk about. I mean, we are supposed to be celebrating Ana's recovery.”

Jane, ever the considerate one, took advantage of the pause to ask Caroline about her trip to Paris. Elizabeth, seeing that Caroline was sufficiently distracted, turned to Will. He was sitting at the other end of the loveseat he and Elizabeth shared. It was diagonal to the one shared by Charles and Caroline and across from Jane and Georgiana. Will had carefully maneuvered the seating arrangements to spare himself Caroline's company.

Elizabeth studied his profile and, at first glance, he looked perfectly at ease, but Elizabeth still knew his moods. On closer examination, the tightness of his jaw betrayed to her that he was upset. All of Elizabeth's hatred for Caroline Bingley swelled up in her; and, at that moment, she wished nothing more than to make him feel comfortable again.

Impulsively, she reached for his hand. He startled when he felt her hand enclose his but made no attempt to remove it. She stroked his palm discreetly with her thumb and spoke in whispered tones.

“Will, I'm sorry you had to deal with that all alone. I know how much it must have bothered you. Please know that, if anyone gets in touch with me now, I won't say a word. I'll try to keep them at bay as best I can.”

Still studying his profile, Elizabeth saw the tension in his shoulders and jaw relax slightly, and she watched as he took a long, deep breath. He turned his gaze back to her and then looked down at their entwined hands. Elizabeth blushed slightly and attempted to move her hand, but Will held it firmly in his grasp.

“Thank you for your reassurance, but I know you would never purposely hurt me.”

Elizabeth had to stifle a gasp as she was utterly bewildered by his words. She kept staring at his face, hoping it would tell her something more, but no such sign was forthcoming. Finally, she saw him smile slightly and lean his head towards her. “Elizabeth, I think your sister asked you a question.”

Elizabeth had nodded and turned back to her sister; however, the remainder of the night was a blur of meaningless conversation as his words replayed themselves repeatedly in her head. He believed her—it was a start. With her mind so engaged, Elizabeth scarcely realized that Will's hand never left hers the entire evening.

***

“Bingley residence.”

Elizabeth immediately recognized her sister's voice. “Hey Jane, it's me.”

“Elizabeth. What's up?”

“I was wondering if we could meet somewhere. I need to talk to you.”

Jane hesitated. “I guess I can. The nanny can probably handle the kids for a while anyway. Where do you want to meet?”

“The park in Lambton—around noon?”

“Okay. Elizabeth, why don't we just meet here at the house? Or I could come to Pemberley.”

“No… I'm afraid we'd be overheard; and, well, I just would like to get out of the house—clear my head.”

“Well, okay. I'll see you soon.”

“Bye.”

As Elizabeth set down the phone, she tried to tell herself for the millionth time that talking to Jane was a good idea. When she had awoken that morning, she had felt the desire to talk with someone but had immediately drawn a blank as to whom. At first, she had considered Charlotte; but, when she was honest with herself, she knew that Charlotte wouldn't understand. For one thing, Charlotte didn't know the real Elizabeth. She only knew the person Elizabeth had pretended to be; and, besides, Charlotte didn't know any of the people involved.

Elizabeth had then considered Georgiana, but immediately dismissed her as well. Georgiana was still recovering from the accident and had enough things on her mind without dealing with additional problems. Finally, she had decided on Jane and hadn't been able to think up a decent reason why she shouldn't talk to her sister. Three years ago, Jane and Georgiana were her best friends and she wouldn't have hesitated to talk to either one of them, but now things were so different for all of them.

Elizabeth arrived at the park early and walked up the lane a bit to clear her mind. When she saw Jane's car pull into the lot, she took a deep breath and went to greet her sister.

After a brief hug, Elizabeth led her to a bench and they sat down. Elizabeth tried to think of how to begin but still felt completely tongue-tied. Talking about her feelings remained a difficult thing for her to do.

“Okay. You're scaring me. What's the matter? Are you okay?” Jane asked, slightly alarmed.

Elizabeth, realizing her silence was doing them no good, tried to reassure her sister. “I'm fine. I just need to talk to someone and figured you would understand or at least try to.”

Jane nodded slowly. “Of course. You can tell me anything.”

“I need to ask you though to not tell Charles anything I say, because he might tell Will, and I just don't want that to happen yet.”

“Okay, I won't tell him. I'll keep in confidential. Now what's wrong?”

Elizabeth took a deep breath, wanting to get it out as fast as possible.
“IthinkImfallinginlovewithWillagain.”

Jane gave her a puzzled look. “What? You're talking too fast. I didn't catch that.”

“I think I'm falling in love with Will again,” she said slowly.

“Oh!” Jane's eyes widened, and she looked completely shocked.

“Is that all you're going to say?” Elizabeth asked impatiently.

“No… I'm just a little surprised.” Jane paused, smiling slightly. “Actually, I'm not surprised at all. I just never thought you would admit it.”

Elizabeth sighed. “I don't want to be in love with him. I mean, I do, but everything would be easier now if I could just move on. But I can't—I never could.”

Jane squeezed Elizabeth's hand gently. “I know. It would be easier for both of you.”

“I've tried to move on for the last three years, Jane, but no one compares to him. I wouldn't admit it at the time, but I compared every man I met to Will.”

“And no one measured up, did they?” Jane asked quietly.

“Not even close. You know, he's been amazing. He's been much nicer to me than I deserve.”

“How do you mean?”

“Well, I mean, we fought a bit in the beginning, but then we made a truce to not fight for Georgiana's sake. Somehow, that truce changed into this strange friendship. He…he's the one that helped me finally deal with our son's death. He held me and comforted me. After all the pain I caused him, he helped me grieve without ever judging me.”

Jane smiled slightly and urged Elizabeth to continue.

“I never told you this, but I kissed him.”

“You did what?”

“We had this food fight. I haven't laughed that hard in years; and then finally, when I surrendered, it was like the past three years melted away, and we were just Will and Beth again. I couldn't resist—he looked so adorable. I think I fell in love again at that moment, but I wasn't ready to admit it.”

“What happened after the kiss? What did Will say?”

“We never had a chance to talk about it. Charles called and interrupted our kiss.”

Jane sighed exasperatedly. “Oh Charles! He has the most abominable timing!”

“Tell me about it.” Elizabeth paused and took a deep breath. “That night Lydia called me.”

“Really?”

“You know I was pretty mad at you for calling her.”

“I'm really sorry, but I truly thought it was for the best,” Jane answered remorsefully.

“I know, and I'm not mad anymore. I needed to hear it. The thing is Lydia told me about what Will did for her.”

“Oh…”

“You knew, too?”

Jane nodded. “Charles told me, but I couldn't tell you.”

“I figured, but that's not what I wanted to talk about. You see—after I talked with Lydia, I was upset. I got angry with Will for not telling me, but the talk we had cleared up a lot of things, and it was a needed dose of reality. I realized how wrong I had been and apologized to him—for everything.”

“You apologized?”

“Yeah,” Elizabeth said nodding. “I even apologized for ever thinking he had an affair.”

“How did you know?”

“I didn't, really, but when I thought about it and how wrong I had been about everything else, I knew it was a lie. He loved me too much to ever hurt me.”

Jane smiled sadly. “I'm glad you realize that.”

“I asked him to forgive me, but I don't know if he can.”

“Why not?”

“It's hard for Will to learn to trust anyone; and, if someone breaks his trust or loses his respect, he can't let it go. He doesn't forgive easily. I not only had his trust, but I had his heart—and I broke both of them. I'm not sure if he can ever forgive me for that; I'm having a hard time forgiving myself.”

Jane silently regarded Elizabeth for several moments before asking, “What do you want, Beth?”

“What do you mean?”

“What do you want from Will?”

“For him to forgive me.”

Jane's tone was urgent. “But why? Why does it matter?”

“Because I don't want him to think badly of me.”

“Why else?” Jane asked exasperatedly.

“Because I love him.”

“And…?”

Finally, Elizabeth understood. “Because I want him back.”

Chapter 18

Jane smiled broadly. “I knew it! This is so wonderful, Elizabeth.”

“Jane…” Elizabeth tried to suppress a grin.

“I'm so excited. You both will finally be happy again.”

Elizabeth's smiled faltered a little. “Jane, just because I love him and want him back doesn't mean it's going to happen.”

Jane stopped smiling. “Why not?”

“He might not want me back.”

Rolling her eyes, Jane replied, “That's nonsense, Elizabeth.”

“What if he can't forgive me? Or what if I'm just not what he wants anymore?”

“Please. You have to be joking. Did you not hear him last night? He thinks you're beautiful.”

“So? I mean yeah that's a good thing; but, really, just because he thinks I'm still attractive doesn't mean he wants me back.”

Jane grasped both of Elizabeth's hands, forcing her to look up. “This is William Darcy were talking about. He doesn't give out compliments lightly. He could have easily and politely dodged the question if he wanted to, but he didn't. And besides you are forgetting your most powerful ammunition against Will.”

“And that is?”

“That no matter how hard he tries, William Darcy cannot resist Elizabeth Bennet.”

Elizabeth let out an awkward laugh, but Jane continued. “Think about it, Elizabeth. When the two of you first met, William thought you were both all wrong for each other, but he fell in love with you anyway. Then, even after you rejected him, he still loved you. Then the day you went to his office and admitted you loved him, he didn't reject you as he rightfully could have, but he immediately kissed you back. He may not realize it right now, but he still loves you deeply. You just have to get him to realize it.”

Elizabeth shook her head. “But don't you see the problem? William fell in love with me; I never had to do anything. So, to be honest with you, I have no idea how to make him fall in love with me again, when I don't know what I did to make him fall in love with me the first time.”

Jane squeezed her hand again. “William fell in love with you because you were simply yourself and you treated him like he was a normal person and not the heir to an enormous fortune.”

“I'm not the same person I was when I met him.”

“Will isn't, either. It's true that both of you have changed, but in essentials you are the same people you were when you met.”

“You really think I could make him fall in love with me again? I mean do you think we could really be happy again?”

Jane smiled. “I do think you could. But let me caution you. If you want him back, then you make sure you want him back for forever. I don't want you to ever think you can leave again.”

Elizabeth wiped away tears. “I promise, I won't. If I get him back, I won't ever let him go.”

“Good,” Jane said as though it was set in stone. “It'll be nice to have you around again--to see both of you happy.”

“How can you be so confident?” Elizabeth asked, still puzzled.

Jane's smile widened. “Because you're his weakness.”

***

After the sisters parted ways, Elizabeth continued to walk around the park, trying to get a grip on her feelings. By the time she arrived back at Pemberley, it was already dark.

The house was quiet when she entered, and she decided to check in on Georgiana first. The door to Georgiana's suite was open, and Elizabeth smiled as she watched the scene before her. Georgiana and Mrs. Reynolds were sitting against the headboard of her bed, and rolls of yarn surrounded them.

“Hey.” She moved quickly towards the bed and sat on the edge.

Georgiana smiled brightly. “Hey, Beth. Mrs. Reynolds is teaching me to knit.”

“Wow!”

“I know it's a big undertaking, but I have all this time on my hands and decided I should learn.”

“It's a good idea to have a hobby. You'll have to make me a sweater once you learn how.”

“Maybe I will.” Georgiana paused and looked up at her. “If you're around for Christmas.”

Elizabeth smiled, realizing the challenge Georgiana had put at her feet. “We'll see. You just worry about getting better.”

“I am. You know my session with Dr. Welsh went great today. I almost don't even need the crutches anymore, but he said he wants me to use them for at least a couple more days.”

Elizabeth grinned. “That's great news, Ana.”

“I told her I had never been more proud,” Mrs. Reynolds said smilingly.

Ignoring Georgiana's blush, Mrs. Reynolds turned to Elizabeth. “William wanted me to tell you that he would like to see you. He's in his study.”

Elizabeth gulped nervously. “Uh, okay. Well, then I'll be back in a little bit.”

***

As Elizabeth made her way to the study, she tried to control her trembling hands. She hardly knew how to act around him anymore. Now that she had admitted she loved him, she wished she could just melt into his embrace, but she knew reality would not be that easy.

She wondered for the thousandth time whether she had the ability to make Will love her again. How does a person make their spouse's love return? She knew she needed to regain his trust but had no idea how.

She reached the door to the study and tried to take a few calming breaths before facing him. Exhaling deeply, she almost laughed at her own nervousness. This was Will; and, as Jane had mentioned, she only needed to be herself. She was no longer the weak, grief-stricken woman of a few weeks ago. If she could somehow find that strong, beautiful, talented woman who lay buried, she knew she had a chance.

Elizabeth knocked briefly and entered, shutting the door firmly behind her. She tried not to stare; but, after this afternoon's admission, the sight of him made her heart race. He remained as handsome as ever, sitting behind his desk typing away at his computer, completely focused on his task. She noticed he was biting his lip in concentration and that his hair was tousled from the countless times he must have run his hands through it. She smiled as she realized he was wearing his reading glasses. He had never wanted to wear them before, because he told her they made him feel like an old man.

She couldn't resist teasing him. “Hey, old man.”

Puzzled, he looked away from the screen. “Old man?”

Elizabeth smiled. “You once told me that only old men wear glasses.”

He scowled. “The doctor said I was only making my eyes worse by not wearing them, and I'm not that old.”

Her smile widened. “No…of course not. You're only thirty.”

“I'll be thirty-one next month,” he mumbled.

“Ah, I see. Well, thirty-one is almost ancient. Are you sure you don't want me to call the nursing home? I hear they have great bridge tournaments on the weekends.”

Will tried unsuccessfully to suppress his smile. “I don't think I'm quite ready for bridge tournaments. I would need to practice, for I fear my bridge talent is severely lacking.”

“That's a pity because the winner of the tournament receives a free massage, and I know your old bones could use one.”

William chuckled. “My old bones, huh?”

Elizabeth nodded, still smiling. “Yes, I think I'll have to make sure you're taking your vitamins so they stay strong.”

Shaking his head, William responded, “I'll make sure I do.”

“Now, if your memory is still decent, perhaps you can tell me why you summoned me?”

“Actually, I was just worried about you. I hadn't seen you all day.”

Elizabeth felt the butterflies in her stomach start to churn. “I was just visiting with Jane. We weren't really able to talk last night.”

“Oh…well that's good.”

“Was that all you needed?”

William nodded. “Yeah, that was all.”

Elizabeth knew she should leave, but she wanted to be near him--to hear his voice, to see his smile. To be honest, she would have been happy to sit in his office and gaze at him while he worked.

She used to gaze at him all the time. She used to pretend she had a good book she wanted to read while he finished work or checked his email; but, in reality, she hardly ever read a word. It had taken him a couple months to realize what she was doing. Finally, he asked her one night what her book was about. She was shocked; he had never before asked about her reading.

She stammered. “I…um…well…you see…it's about this girl…and she does something…and…”

He smiled slightly. “You know you have been reading that book for the past two months, and all you can tell me is that there's a girl in it. I thought your comprehension skills were better than that.”

“Well I just--”

“I couldn't help but notice that you have been staring quite frequently at me, and I have to wonder if I have something on my face that has kept your mind away from your book.”

“I…I…” She had started to respond, but at that moment he started laughing. “Oh! Will! How dare you tease me like that?”

“I'm very sorry. Now will you come over here so I can kiss you?” he asked, still grinning.

Elizabeth shook her head defiantly. “I don't want you to kiss me.”

He quirked an eyebrow. “I highly doubt that,” he said suggestively.

She felt her face flame. “If you want to kiss me, you'll have to catch me.”

“You want me to chase you? Why don't you just kiss me now, and we can spare the chase.”

“You are so arrogant. What makes you think you'll be able to catch me?” she asked with a smile.

He stood up slowly from his chair and approached her. “Well, you see, I have this theory,” he said quietly, “that my prey wants to be caught. So, if she would just kiss me now, we could focus on more…important things.”

“Will…we…I…”

He grabbed her arms and placed them gently around his neck. “Now, my darling, I want you to listen carefully. I don't mind if you wish to stare at me--although at first it was disconcerting. I must say that now I find it very flattering.” He placed his hands on her waist and pulled her closer. “So since we have that settled, I think you should kiss me.”

Elizabeth smiled and snuggled against her husband. “I love you.”

“I know.” He pulled back slightly, gazing down at her. “I love you.” He stared at her intently for several moments. “You know, love, this staring thing might be a good idea. I might develop the habit myself.”

Elizabeth blushed slightly, but replied, “You can stare anytime you want.”

“Good. Now…I think you should kiss me.”

And she did.

***

“Elizabeth?”

“Yeah?” She startled as she realized Will was standing right in front of her.

“You looked a million miles away.”

She smiled wistfully. “I was.”

“Where were you?”

“That night we made our staring rule.”

“Our staring rule…” He paused for just a moment. “Oh…right,” he smiled slightly, “I remember.”

“That was a perfect night.”

He nodded. “Yeah, it was.”

Elizabeth thought that reminding him they were once happy together could work in her favor. “We had a lot of perfect nights.”

Will didn't respond, but Elizabeth continued. “We had a lot of perfect days, too. Do you remember?”

He looked at her sharply. “Of course I do. I could never forget.”

Will's presence overwhelmed her. He had always affected her this way; but, after three years of being apart, she could no longer suppress the longing she felt for him. Taking a deep breath, she embraced him and prayed he wouldn't push her away.

At first, he didn't move at all and stood stiffly, but she felt the tension gradually flow out of his body, and he tentatively placed his arms around her. She sighed and pulled him closer, suddenly realizing how much she had missed the feeling of being in his arms.

She wasn't sure how long they stood there; but, when she felt him draw away, she immediately wanted to pull him back.

Elizabeth looked up into his eyes, no longer trying to guard her expression. She could sense the instant he became aware of her feelings, because his normally calm breathing hitched. “I…I…have some…some work I need to do.”

“Okay. I'll leave you to it then.”

He nodded. “Thanks.”

Not being able to resist touching him again she put her hands on his shoulders and kissed his cheek. “Good night, Will.”

“Night…”

***

Long after Elizabeth left the room, Will remained seated at his desk, staring at the door. He replayed the moment repeatedly in his mind, seeing the same expression in her eyes each time. He hardly dared to believe what he read in their bewitching depths. I love you.

He sat back in his chair and sighed. What am I supposed to do now?

Chapter 19

The first day of December in Derbyshire dawned bright and sunny, although it was terribly cold. Elizabeth ruefully smiled, wishing she had her coat as she remembered how cold Derbyshire winters could be. Shivering, she slowed her pace, preparing to cut her run short that morning. As she stretched out her limbs, she took several long, deep breaths in an attempt to regulate her breathing.

Making her way back to the house, Elizabeth looked at the empty space to her left, regretting for the thousandth time not waiting for William. She knew she was a coward; but, after their encounter the night before, she was afraid of how he would act towards her. The feelings she had for him scared her, because she knew their relationship was still fragile. She was terrified of putting her heart on the line without knowing his feelings.

When she reached the kitchen door several minutes later, her hand froze above the doorknob. She knew that William was probably awake and in the kitchen making himself a cup of tea. There was no avoiding him. Quickly tucking a few wayward hairs behind her ear, she looked at her reflection in the window, hoping she didn't appear too sweaty.

Opening the door, she entered the kitchen. As predicted, William was leaning against the counter waiting for the water to boil. She felt her breath catch slightly in her throat as she observed him standing there, adorably tousled. Although she had seen him like that countless times—both during their marriage and since she had returned—seeing him so disheveled today made her stomach flop strangely.

She cleared her throat slightly. “Mornin', Will.”

He looked up, peering at her through his glasses. “Good morning. Back from your run?”

Nodding slightly, she pulled a bottle of water from the refrigerator. “Sorry I didn't wait for you,” she said apologetically.

He shrugged. “That's all right. I doubt I would have had time anyway.”

They fell silent as Will poured himself a cup of tea. Elizabeth suddenly felt foolish as she struggled to find something to say. Her eyes fell on the refrigerator again. “Are you hungry? Do you want me to make some breakfast?”

“You don't have to. I actually think Mrs. Reynolds said something about pancakes last night.”

“Oh…okay…” She bit her lip, frustrated, somehow wishing her mind wasn't so blank. She could have laughed at how foolish she was being. It wasn't like she was a sixteen-year-old girl and Will was the boy she had a crush on. No, Will was her husband and she was his wife, even if they were estranged. Elizabeth took a deep breath, regaining her courage. She could do it; she could make Will fall back in love with her.

“Elizabeth?”

She looked back up. “What?”

“I just asked if you wanted a cup of tea,” he said, his lips curved slightly upward.

“Um…sure,” she nodded. “Thank you.”

William poured her a cup and then joined Elizabeth at the table. Summoning up her courage again, she flashed him a smile. “So, how is it being back at work?”

“It's not too bad. You know, it's nice to be back on a schedule and working, although it has been kind of stressful lately with the Matlock merger. We are supposed to finalize everything at the end of this week.”

“Well that's good, right?”

“Yeah…it's great news. I guess it's just strange that the same week we're having the memorial for Brandon and Anne, I'll be signing the biggest merger this company has seen in over a decade.”

“Yeah, I know what you mean. It's hard to realize that the world doesn't wait for you to be ready. It keeps moving regardless of what's happening around you.”

William nodded and closed his eyes, allowing his head to rest against the back of the chair. Elizabeth gazed at him, realizing for the first time how exhausted he looked. “Hey,” she reached for his hand, “are you sure you're taking care of yourself?”

He smiled wearily. “I'll be fine once the memorial service and this merger are behind me.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah, I promise. I'm just a little stressed.”

She squeezed his hand gently. “Can I help?”

“You want to help me?” he asked, surprised.

“Well…I…I,” she stuttered, “I used to help you—all the time. I probably could do something. Georgiana is much stronger; and, besides our sessions, I don't really do that much. She's really taking care of herself. I wouldn't mind helping you.”

He gazed at her for a moment as if weighing her suggestion. “Okay,” he said finally, “I could use some help, I guess. Although I have to warn you, it won't be anything exciting. I really just need help organizing some papers.”

“That's fine. I don't mind.”

“Well…if you're sure.”

Nodding, she replied, “I am.”

As Elizabeth moved to refill her cup, Mrs. Reynolds entered the kitchen. The three greeted each other warmly; and Elizabeth, seeing William was now preoccupied with reading the newspaper, decided to help Mrs. Reynolds cook the pancakes.

Sometime later, when they had finished eating, Will turned to her and told her that if she would come by his office later then they could get started.

***

“It's a beautiful day,” Elizabeth said, joining Georgiana on the patio.

Georgiana turned towards her and smiled. She was spending the morning outside in the garden, practicing her knitting skills. Although it was cold, Georgiana had a jacket, and she had never been afraid of cold weather.

Elizabeth sat down in the seat opposite her friend. “How are you today?”

“I'm okay. I guess it's just starting to hit me that in two days I have to really say good-bye to Brandon and Anne. It just isn't fair. I guess a part of me still isn't ready,” Georgiana said, her hands resting.

“I think there's a part you that will never be ready to say good-bye. It's not an easy task, and I'm really proud of you for taking this step. I know it's going to be hard, but you'll have William and me.”

Georgiana was silent for several moments before turning back to Elizabeth. “I owe you so much for all…for everything,” she said quietly.

“You owe me nothing,” Elizabeth said firmly. “What are friends good for if not to be there for each other when it counts?”

Smiling wanly, Georgiana replied, “I guess you're right.” She paused, putting aside her knitting. “So are you here for another session? Or did you just want to talk?”

“Actually I was wondering if you would mind putting that off until this evening. I promised William I'd go to the office for him and help him organize some papers.”

“Oh...yeah that's fine. He's been so stressed lately. I can see it every time I talk to him.”

“Yeah that's why I want to help.”

Georgiana smiled. “Go ahead. We can talk tonight.”

Elizabeth kissed her forehead. “Bye. I'll see you later.”

“Bye.”

***

William watched discreetly through his lashes as Elizabeth stood up from the files and stretched her back. He had been covertly observing her all afternoon. It was impossible not to look at her—especially after what he had seen in her eyes the night before. He somehow felt that, if he stared at her long enough, he could understand everything she was thinking. That she still loved him he now knew; but, as for wanting to stay with him he had no idea.

He also had no idea how he felt towards Elizabeth. He knew he cared about her deeply; she was still the most desirable woman he had ever met. But did he still love her? Could he love her? He just didn't know, and that scared the hell out of him.

She rubbed her eyes and turned towards him. “So I think I have all of this sorted out.”

He startled and blinked, realizing she had spoken and trying to comprehend what she said. Finally, he answered, “Really? So soon?”

She smiled slightly and nodded. “I think you forgot how efficient I am.”

He smiled back. “I must have. I'm very sorry.”

“Oh well, I guess you can be forgiven,” she answered teasingly.

“So are you going to head back to the house now?”

Her brow furrowed. “Do you want me to go?” She glanced up at the ceiling. “I could stay and help with something else. I don't mind.”

William looked at her for a moment, unsure of what to say. Part of him wanted her to stay just so he could continue to look at her—continue to enjoy her presence—but he knew he wouldn't get any work done with her there. His gaze remained steady on her; and, as her smile began to fade, he realized he still needed to give her an answer.

Smiling slightly, he responded, “As much as I would enjoy having you here, I think I can manage everything else on my own.”

Elizabeth felt her heart swell at his words. “Are you sure?”

He nodded. “I'm sure. But, if you have time, could you run something to Charles for me? He decided to work from home today.”

“Oh yeah, I don't mind.”

“Thanks.” William began to write a note for Charles on top of the file he wanted to give him. When he was finished, he looked back up. “Just make sure Charles gets this.”

She grabbed the file, smiled slightly at the jolt she felt when her fingers brushed his, and wondered if he felt it, too. “Well, I guess I'll see you tonight then.”

He nodded. “Oh! I almost forgot. I invited my Aunt and Uncle Fitzwilliam to dinner tonight. They have been hounding me for weeks to see Georgiana; and, now that she's better, I can no longer see any reason to refuse them.”

“Oh, okay. Well, it'll be good for Ana to see her family.” Elizabeth paused and then continued in a whisper, “Do they hate me? I'd just like to prepare myself for icy disdain.”

“They don't hate you; they never have. I think that they were disappointed that we separated, because they liked you so much. Besides, any anger they might feel towards you will be gone completely when they see my sister. Only you could have worked such magic.”

Elizabeth smiled. “Thanks.” She took a deep breath. “So, I'll be going now.”

Summoning her courage, she walked around the side of the desk, boldly put one hand on his cheek, and leaned down to kiss the other. “Bye.” She turned and walked out without a backward glance.

However, if she had turned back, she would have seen William press his hand against the spot she had kissed, a wonderstruck look on his face.

Chapter 20

Elizabeth and William were sitting with Georgiana in the living room when the Fitzwilliams arrived that evening. Andrew and Rebecca Fitzwilliam looked the same as Elizabeth remembered them. Both of them were still extremely handsome in their old age, even with their graying hair and wrinkles.

As they greeted their nephew and niece, Elizabeth stayed back, looking slightly uncomfortable and unsure of how the Fitzwilliams would treat her. Finally the couple looked towards her and, instead of anger filling their eyes, she saw only uncertainty. It was then she realized that they were as apprehensive about this dinner as she was. She smiled slightly, yet still waited for them to make the first move.

“Elizabeth,” Rebecca said several moments later, “it's…good to see you again.” She paused and moved forward, grabbing Elizabeth's hand in the process. “I don't know how to thank you for what you've done for my niece.”

Elizabeth gave a brief nod as she saw Andrew join his wife. “I would also like to thank you, Elizabeth. What you have accomplished with my niece is truly a miracle.”

“You're welcome,” Elizabeth replied with a brief smile.

The five stood in silence as each waited for someone else to speak, but no one was sure of what to say. Finally, William coughed awkwardly and asked for everyone to join him in the dining room. The party began to move towards the door. but Elizabeth pulled back slightly on Rebecca's hand.

“Rebecca,” Elizabeth said haltingly, “I…I wanted to apologize. When I left three years ago, I really didn't think about anyone but myself. I didn't think about the pain I would cause this family, and for that I'm truly sorry. I thought that by leaving I could spare people pain, but I just brought more; abandoning those I love was inexcusable. I just want you to know that I am trying to make amends for everything.”

Rebecca's blue eyes searched her expression, but Elizabeth finally saw a softening around her eyes and a slight smile appear on her face.

“You're still in love with him aren't you, Elizabeth?”

Elizabeth blinked. “I…well…how did you?… I mean, yeah, I am.”

“It's written all over your face, dear. I can also see that you truly are remorseful; and, while I may not understand all of your reasons, I do hope you and William can find your way back to each other. You were always good for him.”

Elizabeth smiled slightly. “He was always good for me too, and I really think we can make it work this time.”

“Well good luck to you then, Elizabeth,” Rebecca said, turning towards the dining room. “Now, let's make our way to the dining room. I'm famished.”

***

Dinner that evening was full of laughter. Elizabeth had almost forgotten how humorous Andrew's stories could be. The jovial atmosphere seemed to be good medicine for all of the party, especially Ana. Seeing Ana smile seemed to lift a weight from both William and Elizabeth's hearts.

***

“Now you must promise that you will never tell Richard I told you this story. He would never forgive me,” Andrew said, his voice full of mirth. Once each member of the group pledged their secrecy, he continued, “Now Richard was maybe five or six…I can't really remember now…but anyways it was around Christmas time and we were visiting one of my old business colleague's houses. Well they had this little puppy that Richard really wanted to play with, so he followed it into the living room.

“About an hour later when its time to eat, he's nowhere to be found. So Rebecca and I go looking for him. Well I find him on all fours in the library trying to coax the puppy out from under the couch. When I asked what he was doing he told me that he was trying to finish giving the puppy a bath. You know by this point I was just so confused. So I asked him what he meant and he holds up a half-empty air freshener and tells me he's giving the puppy a bath. I then asked why and he looked at me wide-eyed and said,

‛Well Mommy always put air fresheners in the bathroom, and the puppy smelled like the toilet, so I thought it would make him smell better.' ”

Elizabeth laughed softly. She knew Richard well enough that it was easy for her to imagine the scene.

As Andrew continued with his stories, Elizabeth found her attention wandering to the man across the table from her. He looked handsome tonight all dressed up in his green, collared shirt. She didn't mean to stare, but tonight she simply wanted to soak up every detail of his appearance from his freshly cut curly hair and the rolled sleeves of his dress shirt, to the amused curve of his lips.

Elizabeth's gaze lingered a moment too long as her stare was suddenly captured by a sparking green one. William's amused look faded and was replaced by a curious glimmer. Their gazes remained locked as Elizabeth fought to turn away, but her captor was not allowing her escape. She watched as his left eyebrow curved upward, as if silently asking, “You like what you see?”

Cheeks burning, Elizabeth felt her heart swell with elation; William was flirting with her. Determined to not be intimidated by his challenge, Elizabeth gave a subtle nod and slowly twisted her lips into a sly smile. William's amused expression returned; however, his gaze still had not left hers.

“Isn't that right, William?”

William's gaze ripped away from hers and he looked at his uncle with a puzzled expression. Elizabeth stifled laughter as she realized William had no idea how to answer his uncle.

“You'll have to excuse me, Uncle; it appears my mind was elsewhere.”

Andrew smiled devilishly. “Of course, my boy! I do wonder what could have been so distracting…but then again with such a beautiful woman sitting across from you, I'm not surprised.”

Elizabeth blushed, yet found herself smiling slightly as she noticed that William's face seemed to have a red tint as well.

Chapter 21

Running her hands up and down her arms, Elizabeth reflected on how well the evening had gone. It had been a perfect evening. It had almost seemed…normal, which for her was a foreign concept. After the Fitzwilliams left, Georgiana decided to turn in early, so Elizabeth had stayed in the kitchen and helped Mrs. Reynolds clean up. William never returned from escorting his relatives to the door so she assumed he had retired as well.

Still restless, Elizabeth now found herself standing on the patio staring up at the night sky. She shivered slightly as she felt a chill sweep around her.

“Elizabeth.”

William's voice sliced through the darkness like a knife, causing Elizabeth to shudder.

“William,” Elizabeth said her hand still clinging to her chest, “I didn't realize you… I thought I was alone… I mean I thought you were asleep.”

“No.” William's voice sounded strained and rough.

Elizabeth moved closer, barely able to make out his silhouette in the faint night lanterns. She noticed he was sitting on the patio swing, his legs stretched completely out before him.

“Are you okay?” she asked as reached him.

His head was leaning back against the swing, his eyes closed. “Of course. I'm always fine.”

“William?”

His eyes snapped open. “What?”

“Are you angry with me?”

William sighed. “No. I'm not angry, Elizabeth,” he said his eyes softening slightly. He rubbed a hand across his eyes and sighed again. Elizabeth took a seat by his side yet remained quiet. She knew him well enough not to pile him with questions although she fervently hoped he would confide in her when he was ready. As the silence stretched on, Elizabeth reached for William's hand and turning it over began to draw small circles on his palm. She wanted to remind him of her presence.

“I…I was just,” William began his voice barely above a whisper. “I was thinking about Brandon. Tonight…tonight just made me…he should have been there…” William paused taking a deep breath. “I miss him, Elizabeth. He was a good friend to me, and I've been so wrapped up in my sister's recovery I almost completely forgot that he was truly gone.”

Elizabeth's heart clenched at the pain that was evident in William's voice.

“It was like tonight I just expected him and Anne to show up. I just don't understand. Our family had already been through so much and then to lose them so unexpectedly. I don't know what to do Elizabeth. I want to be strong for my sister but…God…I just don't…” William shook his head miserably.

“William… William, look at me,” Elizabeth said turning his face towards hers. “No one expects you to be strong all the time. You have been a rock to both Ana and me the last couple of weeks, but you have the right to grieve for them as well.”

“But she needs me. I can't fall apart.”

“Then let me be strong for you.”

He shook his head. “Elizabeth…”

“William, I promise I won't break.”

William's gaze stayed locked with Elizabeth for several long moments before he hauled her into his lap wrapping his arms tightly around her waist.

“William?”

“I…just…let me hold you.”

She nodded and leaned against his chest. For a while they stayed like that, curled up together, but then Elizabeth noticed William's shoulders were shaking slightly so she sat up a little and faced him.

His eyes were red and haunted. “Come here,” she pulled his head towards her shoulder and held him as he let go of a grief that could no longer be contained. Elizabeth held on tight, letting him pull on every bit of strength she possessed. Sometime later when his grief was spent, William began to talk, telling her everything he could remember about Brandon and Anne. They stayed cuddled together until the wee hours of the night when finally exhaustion took over.

***

William awoke several hours later just as the red and purple of dawn were beginning to peak above the tree tops. He breathed deeply, a heady floral scent filled his senses. Startled, he looked down and found Elizabeth still wrapped tightly against his torso. She shivered slightly in the early morning chill, causing William to pull her closer. He sighed as he noticed how perfectly she fit against him. She always had. Brushing some wayward curls from her face, William took the opportunity to study Elizabeth.

`She is truly beautiful,' he mused. Elizabeth used to try and tell him that Jane had always been considered the more beautiful sister, but he had never seen it. Sure, Jane was a very beautiful woman, but Elizabeth had a light and spirit that made her beauty seem brighter.

William ran his thumb down Elizabeth's smooth, pale cheek causing her to whimper slightly and nestle deeper into his chest. “I'm a fool, an utter fool.”

He rested his chin against her head. “I have tried to deny it,” he whispered. “I thought…I wanted to be able to hate you but I can't. I never could even when you left me. I just wanted you to come back.” He paused, allowing the tips of his finger to trail lightly down her arm. “I was so horrible to you when you first came back, because I thought that if I was angry and cold that I could resist you…but…I can't.”

William's eyes fluttered shut and he let out a shuddering breath. “I—” he said his voice cracking slightly, “I…love you and I'm powerless to stop myself from feeling so.”

For the next several moments, William simply listened to the steady cadence of Elizabeth's heartbeat. The importance of his confession surrounded and clouded his mind like a thick fog. He loved Elizabeth, and the way she had taken care of him the night before proved to him that she might still love him as well. William knew that he and Elizabeth needed to have a serious conversation about how they felt; however, he realized that it would have to be put on hold for at least a couple days because of the memorial service. Kissing the top of Elizabeth's head, he made a silent vow to soon tell her how much he loved her.

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