Steal Your Heart

By Kaydee

Beginning, Section II

Chapter 1

Posted on Sunday, 27 February 2000

Every man needs a woman and every woman needs a man, but until they steal each other's hearts they are normal people that claim they shall never fall in love and if they do only the deepest love could induce them into matrimony.

Our story takes us to the beautiful state Maryland, in a small town called Meryton. In this town upon a hill there stands a house and they call it Netherfield. This house will soon be inhabited by are Mr. Charles Bingley.

Not three miles down the road there is and estate called Longbourn, which as we know inhabits the five Bennet sisters: Jane, Elizabeth (Lizzy or Liz), Catherine (Kitty), Lydia, and Mary. Suffice to say Jane and Lizzy live in their apartment in town, come now we do not want these two living with there mother at their age now do we? Then we cannot forget the rest of the inhabitants, the amusing Mr. Bennet and the unnerving Mrs. Bennet.

"Oh, Mr. Bennet" exclaimed Mrs. Bennet one day when the whole family was together.

"Yes, my dear" said he as he looked up from his book.

"Have you heard the Netherfield has been taken?"

"No I have not."

"Oh, Mr. Bennet my poor nerves. A Mr. Bingley has taken it. He is very rich and the co-owner of Austen Department Stores. Just think what a fine thing for our girls" she said clasping her hands together.

"How so?"

"Why Mr. Bennet you must know I am thinking of his marrying one of them."

"Mr. Bennet rolled his eyes and said "Who knows maybe Mr. Bingley he will like you best and take you away with him."

"Ahhhh, Mr. Bennet you unfeeling man, oh my nerves." She said as she plopped down in a chair.

Jane was the oldest Bennet and was thirty years old. She had long golden hair the color of autumn gold leaves. She had a wonderful temperament, but her feelings are not shown easily.

Elizabeth is the second oldest at twenty-five. She has long curly brown hair. She has the temperament to judge quickly, very outspoken and very witty.

I'm sure Lydia (17), Kitty (19) and Mary (16) need not real explaining. Imagine for your self.

Elizabeth was manager of Austen Department Stores and Jane Assistant Manager. They did their jobs well and in today they were receiving a visit from the owner and co-owner of the chain: William Darcy and Charles Bingley.

Lizzy was working at the cosmetics counter that day and Jane was finishing finance reports. Jane was approaching with two men. Hmmm the tall dark one is handsome she thought.

A customer walked up and they had to wait and so the tall dark-haired man watched her. Beautiful he thought.

"I'm interested in a lipstick" said a boy of about fourteen.

"What did you have in mind?" Lizzy inquired.

"It's for my mother."

"What is her skin tone?"

"Fair, beige. I guess."

"Ok. How about this one? It's called smooth and it's a soft brown with a light pink tint."

"Yea that's the one. The color she always wore."

She rung it up and then said "$35.00."

"I only have $12.00" he said.

She smiled and said "I'll tell you what, I will pay the other $23.00" she pulled money out of her purse "and you will write me an IOU on this receipt" she handed the receipt to him with a pen "and when you get the money" she put the money in the cash register "you come in and pay me. Deal?"

"Yea. Thank you uh...Elizabeth" he said after he looked at the nametag. The boy ran off.

"That was nice of you" said the tall dark haired man.

"Thank you" she smiled and extended her hand "Elizabeth Bennet, manager."

He took her hand and replied "William Darcy, owner."

"Pleased to meet you."

"This is my friend Charles Bingley" he gestured toward his friend they shook hands "he is co-owner."

"I'm sure you met my sister Jane?"

"Yep" they replied in unison.

"Well I am sure you would like to look around the store, I have..." she trailed off.

"Oh dear god" Lizzy said "It's Lydia and Mama. Jane, get them out please. They will be the death of us all"

"Aye, Aye sister" Jane said jokingly and turned on her heal to heard out the cows.

Lizzy smiled at Darcy and Bingley and said "I must warn you two do not let my mother know you're rich she'll fawn over you like gods, hoping you'll marry one of us. I'm not kidding" she said as she saw their amused looks one their faces.

"Lizzy my dear girl met any rich men?" he mother asked breathlessly.

"No mama" she lied "and money is not everything."

"Oh do not toy with me girl. Of course money is everything and who are these two handsome gentlemen?" she asked .

"William Darcy and Charles Bingley, Mama" said Jane.

"Oh, Nice to meet you and.."

"Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley" Lizzy cut in "Follow me." They hurried of leaving a dumbfounded Mrs. Bennet and Lydia behind.

"Hmph. I know when I'm not wanted, come Lydia" and they left the store.

When they were safely away from their mother, just inside her office Lizzy said "I apologize for my mothers behavior."

"Quite alright" said Bingley "Darcy shall we go look around"

"Later ladies" they both said and left.

Which one do you think handsome?" asked Lizzy staring out her office window down at the two men.

"Charles is handsome" said Jane.

"Yes he is" said a dreamy Elizabeth "but I prefer William Darcy. Well back to work."

"Bye Lizzy."

"Bye Jane see you at lunch."

Lizzy continued to stare down at the two men with her hands behind her back. She liked Mr. Darcy he seemed nice enough and after her disastrous relationship before, she needed someone that she could trust. Could she trust Mr. Darcy? She didn't know. Mr. Darcy looked up and caught Lizzy's eye, Elizabeth staring at him, and he smiled before turning away.

Chapter 2

Posted on Monday, 28 February 2000

Elizabeth stood staring off into space. The wounds were still there along with the bruises and scares left by the heartless man that beat her until all that was left was the soul that once was and a heart wanting to love. A trust that shattered like glass upon the floor and wounds that might bleed forever. She still had her heart and she still had her playful, teasing nature, but that was just to cover the sadness, pain and hurt the engulfed her. All that she had left was her heart, but could she ever give it to another man? Could she trust? There would always be that hesitation to trust, but as much as you try to trust it slips away and you keep that secret the weighs heavy upon your heart hidden away.

"So Darcy" said Bingley "the store looks in great condition. Jane is very pretty."

"Yes I grant you that, but I like the brunette, Elizabeth. She had 'fine eyes'".

"We are terrible, are we not?"

"Me? Look at you Bingley you fall in and out of love so fast I can't even keep track."

"So I do, but maybe it will be different this time. Hey, maybe Liz can fend off Caroline for you."

"Heaven forbid! If Elizabeth does that I will surely know pigs can fly."

"Shall we return?"

"Forge ahead my friend" Darcy said, but he was paying attention to the figure of Elizabeth that was still staring down from her office window.

As Darcy and Bingley entered. Lizzy was still standing at the window they took their seats and waited. Finally she spoke "I hope you liked the store" she said and then added, "Why is it the world is so corrupt? It's like a game to see who can hurt who first." They didn't know how to respond to that.

"The store is wonderful Elizabeth" said Darcy finally.

"Thank you" she said turning to them "I am glad that you approve, you are perhaps the first with the exception of my father."

"I am glad of it, I don't see who could not approve" said Darcy.

"Then you do not know my ex-boyfriend" she said turning melancholy "but on a happier note how would you like to come with Jane and I for lunch in twenty minutes?"

"Darcy what do you say?" asked Bingley eagerly.

"What the heck."

"I hope you all like Italian" she said smiling.

"Love it" they both said.

"Meet you at 'The Macaroni Grill' then in twenty minutes" and she left them to them selves.

They arrived to see Elizabeth and Jane waiting for them at a table and after they ordered they struck up conversation, well Jane with Bingley and Lizzy with Darcy.

"So where are you from?" asked Lizzy.

"I am from Annapolis" Darcy replied.

"Really? Must be beautiful there?"

"Yes it is, very beautiful" he replied, this was actually directed at Lizzy who got the picture and blushed casting her eyes down.

"Well do you have any___uh___ siblings?"

"Yes one sister. Georgiana. She is twenty. She plays the piano exceptionally well."

"Ah yes the piano" Lizzy replied "a wonderful instrument."

"You play it?"

"Not very well. Now if I had practiced more then of course I might play exceptionally well" she replied with a smile. He smiled a charming smile.

"Lizzy, do you remember the time when we used to climb those trees and one time you tripped and fell in the mud?" asked Jane.

"Yes I do. I pulled you in with me" Lizzy laughed "and then Mama came out and about had a cow because we were covered in mud and 'were not fit to be seen'" she mocked her mothers voice. The table irrupted in laughter

"I don't think I can imagine you two covered in mud" stated Charles.

"I'll bet you can't! Oh Jane we have to be going."

"Oh dear you're right. Well we have got to run we hope to see you again tomorrow."

"We shall escort you ladies to the car."

As Charles was handing Jane into the car she said "Why don't you come to the apartment tomorrow and we could get to know each other. Here is the address."

"Thank you see you in the morning." They drove off.

"Well Charles I think that went rather well, don't you think?"

"Yes extremely well."

Jane answered the door to the apartment that morning gesturing them in and yelling from the kitchen said "Lizzy will be in here soon."

No sooner had she said that they heard her, but she was singing a song and Darcy listened with interest.

Wild flowers along the road
Are pretty to the eye
Make a lovely spray then start to dry
You and I sure had our fun
Our moment in the sun
The party rages on till the spirits gone

Here's looking at you
To the years
To the times you were sincere
Like a bottle of wine
That's only good opened in its time
They say that the strong
Will survive
Well I'm weak but I'm still alive
Saying good-bye
As I changed to a butterfly
Here's looking at you

A child looks at a lion's eye
Lying in the cage
Only sees the good underneath the rage
A challenge is more than an open door
Like wolves feed on sheep
I don't want to fight for what I cannot keep

Here's looking at you
To the years
To the times you were sincere
Like a bottle of wine
That's only good opened in its time
They say that the strong
Will survive
Well I'm weak but I'm still alive
Saying good-bye
As I changed to a butterfly
Here's looking at you

He thought to himself she sounds so sad, why is she singing that? Did she write it?

She emerged to find only Darcy there for Jane and Bingley had slipped out to get donuts and coffee.

"Good morning."

"Good morning. That was a beautiful song you were singing. Did you write it?"

"Yes I did. It's called Here's looking at you*."

"Why did you write it?" he asked innocently and he really meant it that way.

"Personal experiences" she replied softly while looking away.

"I'm sorry I didn't mean to upset you."

"It's alright you not the one that caused me to write it. I'll tell you when I'm ready."

They we interrupted by Jane and Bingley who came in with breakfast and they had pleasant conversation, but Darcy kept thinking Personal experiences. What is that supposed to mean? The words of the song kept replaying in his head as he came to understand her meaning, she had been beaten, that was now partly obvious, but by whom he did not know, but she said in her own time. He would wait for that time when she would tell him. Until then all he could do was wait.

Chapter 3

Posted on Monday, 1 March 2000

Author's Note: Crystal Bernard sang the song I had Lizzy sing in the last chapter.

A long time ago there lived a beautiful princess and one day a handsome prince came, he fell in love with her and she with him and he took her away.

"Lizzy" shouted Jane. Elizabeth snapped out of her ravine.

"Yes Jane?"

"We got a new shipment in to day. Some jeans and shirts, they are orange."

"Orange? You have got to be kidding right? Who in their right mind would buy orange clothes?"

"Yes, orange, Lizzy. It says here on the Inventory and I don't know who would buy it. I guess we shall find out, huh?"

"Yes, we shall. Jane we are on registers today. Christmas Rush!"

"Oh wonderful" responded Jane sarcastically "I totally forgot."

"I'll bet you did. Now get to work, both of us. Now!" Lizzy said playfully.

Jane was working in the little tots department with all the cute little baby clothes and Lizzy was in the woman's department with, well all the snappy people that couldn't find what they wanted and all Lizzy would say was "it's Christmas for god's sake. Should have come earlier and in a small town like this with one major department store what did you expect?", but she said it nicely. They obliviously could see her point and wouldn't be so well snappy.

Well not everyone saw her point, remember the orange? In walked a woman who probably could deck the halls in orange, she walked like she was a god or something and she had rich or maybe another word (catch my drift) plastered on her forehead.

She came stalking up to the register and said "I'll take five of the orange pants in a size five and five orange shirts in a small. Hurray!"

"Miss, first of all" said Lizzy "we do not get your clothes for you here. You get them and try them on yourself and we are not servants here to serve you, you serve yourself and second you do not look like a size five." There that ought to tell her the way we run business here.

Who does she think she is? "I don't think you know who I am, do you?"

"Your right I don't, but do you know who I am?"

"I am Caroline Bingley and I could care less who you are," Caroline said rather snottily.

"Well, Caroline I am Elizabeth Bennet, the manager." Said Lizzy emphasizing the word manager.

"Manager" snorted Caroline "I am Caroline Bingley that should mean something too you."

"No, not really."

"Well."

"Caroline, what brings you here?" said Charles as he and Darcy walked up.

"You know her?" said a bewildered Elizabeth.

"Of course I do. Elizabeth my sister Caroline."

"Oh I see where you were going now Caroline with that whole 'you don't know who I am' thing. I'm sorry." I guess now I know who in their right mind would buy orange. Caroline.

"You should be" snorted Caroline. Lizzy raised and eyebrow.

"You still want to buy those orange things, Caroline?"

"Why no of course not...no, I mean yes I would love to" blurted out Caroline after she noticed William standing there. "I'll be right back."

She grabbed the jeans and shirts, bought them and said "Will darling what a wonderful place you have here." All Lizzy could do was put a hand to her mouth and try to stifle her laugh which didn't work to well, she was amused at the way Caroline addressed Will darling.

"What do you find so amusing Elizabeth?" asked Charles.

"I'm sorry" Lizzy said between laughs "but (laugh) it's nothing" she said giggling still.

"Well I will be going now. See you tonight Will darling. Charles walk me to the car." Caroline demanded and left Darcy and Lizzy together. Elizabeth burst into hysterics.

"What is so amusing about that Liz?" asked Darcy who thought she looked rather pretty when she laughed.

"Sorry (laugh) but It's just that (laugh) oh, how she (laugh) addressed you (laugh.) 'Will darling'(laugh)" giggled Lizzy while trying to mimic Caroline.

"Oh dear god" he rolled his eyes "she won't leave me alone. She thinks we're dating."

"I can see why she would (laugh), you're cute." As soon as she realized what she said she blushed and looked away. Oh god I can't believe I just said that. What must he think of me?

Pretending not to hear what she said, although he did and was secretly amused, he replied "Caroline is harmless, don't let her boss you around and you will be fine."

Finally regaining composure she turned around.

"I would love to put her in her place if she ever demands something from me again."

"Oh she will, but do what you did and you will be fine."

"Thank you."

"Lizzy guess what? Charles and I are going on a date tonight" stated Jane plopping down on the couch in their apartment.

"Really?" asked Lizzy quirking an eyebrow "When did he ask?"

"Today. Oh, he is so"

"Wonderful" said Lizzy finishing her sentence.

"Yes. I admit I like him very much."

"I'm glad for you Jane" she smiled "and maybe he'll take you to the Winter Ball?"

"I should ask him about it and I was invited to Netherfield by Caroline."

"I'm glad for you Jane. Have fun."

Later that morning there was a call on her answering machine from Charles saying Jane had come down with the flu and was staying at Netherfield. He also said she could come over if she wanted. So to Netherfield she went. She showed up much to the delight of some of the inhabitants.

"I hope you sister is well?" asked Bingley.

"Yes she is and I thank you for your concern."

"I insist you stay tonight until she is better."

"I would not wish to impose."

"Not at all."

"Alright then I will stay" said Lizzy smiling casting a glance at 'Will darling', which did not go, unnoticed by Caroline.

How dare she look at my man. I'll have to get Eliza away from him. The tramp.

"Oh sorry" said Lizzy as she ran into someone in the hall.

"Not at all Elizabeth."

She recognized the velvet tones of the voice and a shiver went down her spine and she looked up into Mr. Darcy's eyes.

"Uh, I got lost. The house it is so big" she lied.

"Yes it is. How is your sister?"

"Better."

"She will be well enough for the Winter Ball I hope?" he asked.

"Yes I think she will. Will you be there?"

"Yes Charles and I are going. And I hope to keep Caroline away" he whispered into her ear before walking off. Damn if he wasn't so cute I would have slapped him for that.

Chapter 4

Posted on Sunday, 5 March 2000

That night Elizabeth decided to join the others in the sitting room by encouragement from Jane. She was diligently reading a book when Caroline's loud voice interrupted her.

"Mr. Darcy what do you do so secretly?" she asked.

"I am writing a letter to my sister" he replied.

"OH, well do tell her I long to see her."

Darcy was about to answer when Elizabeth said "I would like to meet your sister Mr. Darcy. She could come down for the ball."

"What a wonderful idea" Darcy exclaimed "She would love too and I would like to introduce the two of you."

"I would like that very much" said she blushing.

"Good" and he went back to his letter.

Caroline was not pleased with the attentions Darcy was giving Elizabeth. She was jealous to the core.

Netherfield Library
Next Day

Elizabeth was looking at the wonderful selection of books, just browsing. She was unaware that William had walked in and he was watching her every movement. Finally the sound of a closing door made her jump and let out a yelp.

"I did not startle you Elizabeth?" he asked silently amused by her reaction. She turned around to face him.

"Not at all Mr. Darcy."

"Please call me William or Will."

"William" she repeated and the sound of his name coming from her lips made him glow.

"How is your sister?" he asked.

"She is better and I think she will be able to go home in two days. She is almost recovered."

"I'm glad to hear it."

"I assume Jane and Charles are going together to the Winter Ball?"

She eyed him curiously "I guess" she shrugged "She hasn't said anything about it, why?"

"I was just wondering." She smiled at him.

"So tell me about this Winter Ball" he asked.

"It's a black tie affair and there is dancing of course. It snows, so couples might take walk's out side."

"Sounds really fun."

"Yes it is."

The two days passed quickly and Jane recovered fully. Jane and Charles got better acquainted with the delight of each and Elizabeth. Elizabeth and Darcy got on wonderfully, much to the delight of Jane and Charles and to the dismay of Caroline. Elizabeth and Jane left very happy.

Preparing for the Winter Ball
Three days after Jane came home
Elizabeth and Jane's apartment

Lizzy slipped into her ball gown and admired herself in the mirror. It was beautiful. It was an ivory ball gown with a gold-beaded bodice and tulle overlay skirt. She left her brunette curly hair down and placed a gold and black necklace on her head, like a beaded crown. She swirled around in delight. Never before had she been so excited about a dance, but the prospect of a certain William Darcy being there lifter her spirits immensely.

She quickly put on her minimal amount of make-up, it's not like she was in dire need of it, her shoes and went to wait for Jane.

Jane walked out wearing in a sleeveless V-neck dark blue ball gown. Her golden hair was half up and half down and she looked stunning as usual. She would surely knock Charles off his feet.

"Oh Lizzy" Jane breather "You look beautiful. Mr. Darcy will be captivated by you."

She gave a nervous laugh and blushed. "Jane you will knock Charles off his feet. You are an angel." Jane blushed.

Netherfield

"Well Darcy" said Bingley slapping him on the back "How do we look?"

"You never cease to amaze me" he laughed "We look fine."

Caroline came down wearing none other than orange, followed by her sister Louisa. Then came Georgiana she was wearing a pink satin gown that became larger at the bottom.

"You look beautiful Georgiana" said he brother.

"Thank you" she said shyly.

"Shall we go?" asked and all to eager Bingley.

They were off.

The Winter Ball

Darcy, Bingley and Georgiana were in a corner of the room and Caroline and Louisa were disgusted by the society and Mr. Hurst was drinking the night away, already.

"Darcy was scanning the room for Elizabeth when she finally arrived with her sister. He took a sharp intake of breath as he saw her. The dress was an ivory and gold and clinging to her curves. Her beautiful hair hung freely and graced her shoulders on her delicate, soft skin. Good Lord have mercy. She is ravishing. His sister watched his reaction and was intrigued by it, but was pleased also.

Bingley on seeing Jane enter stood rooted to the spot. Jane was beautiful and the dress so simple yet so elegant. She was stunning. He gulped. He would not be able to take his eyes from her. This was going to be a long night.

Chapter 5

Posted on Friday, 10 March 2000

Elizabeth caught her breath in her throat when she saw William approaching. Jane felt the same way when she saw Charles.

"Elizabeth" said Darcy. She lifted her eyes to meet his chocolate brown ones.

"William." she smiled.

"May I introduce my sister Georgiana? Georgiana, Elizabeth Bennet."

"Nice to meet you Elizabeth" said Georgiana shyly. Jane and Bingley were dancing on the floor already.

"I understand you play the piano," said Elizabeth trying to ease the girl's fears.

"Yes I do. My brother is too good to me, he is more than I deserve."

"Oh, but I think you do deserve it. You're a sweet girl." Georgiana blushed at the comment.

"Elizabeth" Darcy interrupted "May I have this dance?"

Elizabeth lifted her eyes to meet his, blushed and but her delicate hand in his strong one. He excused them from Georgiana and led Elizabeth to the floor.

It was a slow song so he was able to hold her close and they were both affected.

"Did I tell you" he whispered in her ear, sending a tingling sensation down her spine "that you look simply ravishing?" He felt her go hot, most likely from blushing, which was exactly what she was doing.

"No" she said quietly.

"Well you are" he responded smiling into her hair.

"Thank you" she whispered back.

Georgiana watched in delight, but others did not. Caroline was jealous and George Wickham was enraged. Sure Elizabeth was his ex-girlfriends, but he was determined to get her back and what enraged him more was that she was dancing with his arch enemy William Darcy.

Chapter 6

Posted on Friday, 10 March 2000

After the dance, Elizabeth and Darcy decided to take a turn in the gardens. William watched in amusement as she stopped to admire the flowers and smell their scents and laughed happily.

"What?" she asked laughing when she noticed him watching her.

"Nothing" he said smiling and he grabbed her kissing her passionately.

"I need to tell you something" she said breathlessly. "I'm sorry to break up a romantic moment, but I have to tell you." He nodded, but they were still in their embrace.

She took a deep breath.

"My ex-boyfriend hurt me really badly. After a couple of weeks he got abusive, so I dumped him, but he kept coming around. Stalking! It got so bad I got a restraining order, he's stayed away so far." He stroked her back gently. "His name was George Wickham." She felt him stiffen and wrap his arms tighter around her waist, possessively.

"You know him?" she asked.

"Unfortunately. He tried to rape my sister. He also claims I cheated him out of money, which I did not. I don't really want to talk about this right now. I'll relate the rest another time, okay?"

"Of course."

They didn't know how long they stood there, but soon it began to snow softly. Lizzy smiled mischievously and started to run. Other couples were coming outside too. William took off after Liz.

A cold, hardball of snow struck him in the back. He turned around to see Lizzy peeking out from behind a tree laughing happily. He threw a snowball back at her, but it hit the tree. She ran again and he went after he. She fell into a snowdrift, by accident, and it slowed her down. Just as she was getting up William caught her around the waist. She laughed, He laughed. She turned around and he silenced her with a kiss on her rosy lips. She put her arms around his neck and he tightened his grip around her waist. The snow continued to lightly fall; the moon and the stars shone bright framing the couple in a soft light.

Mr. And Mrs. Bennet were coming around the corner to see their second daughter in the mist of all this. To say they were shocked would be an understatement. They were surprised, dumfounded. Who would have thought?

"Mr. Bennet" whispered a delighted Mrs. Bennet "would you look at that? It is amazing."

Not much farther away Jane and Mr. Bingley were walking. Simultaneously Bingley grabbed Jane around the waist and brought his lips to hers and she did not protest.

That is how Mr. And Mrs. Bennet found their oldest daughter.

"Oh Mr. Bennet" whispered Mrs. Bennet "this is too much for one mother to take. Oh my nerves." Mr. Bennet silently led Mrs. Bennet away to sit on a bench while rolling his eyes.

George Wickham was lurking in the shadows of the trees when he saw a couple passionately kissing. He came closer and saw none other than Elizabeth and William Darcy. He burned with rage. His Elizabeth responding to those kisses with more passion than she ever did to his. I will get her back. Darcy you cannot have her. She will be mine. He crept silently into the shadows.

Finally the romantic couples made there way back inside due to the cold. Jane and Elizabeth caught each other's eyes and smiled.

Of course one has to wonder about the gossip going around. Thanks to Mrs. Bennet the whole town knew of the couple's romantic interlude and of course there was over exaggeration on Mrs. Bennet's part.

The couples danced more and Elizabeth and Georgiana became better acquainted.

That night Jane and Elizabeth left happy women and Darcy and Bingley delighted men. Georgiana left pleased, for she too had witnessed her brother's and Lizzy's kissing scene. Caroline left more determined than ever to get William Darcy's attention on her and George Wickham had something up his sleeve. It was only a matter of time.

Chapter 7

Posted on Sunday, 26 March 2000

Netherfield

Bingley and Darcy had been in Meryton for over a month and Bingley decided to make the most important decision of his life with the help of his friend.

"Darcy" said Bingley one morning at the breakfast table "Do you think Jane... I mean should I purpose to __uh__Jane?"

Darcy looked at him and said, "Do you think she loves you?"

"I...I _uh_ think so. What do you think?"

"To tell you the truth Bingley," Darcy said with a sigh "No I do not think she is in love with you."

Bingley's face fell in a matter of seconds, from bright and cheerful, to nervousness to shock and then to sadness, pain and hurt.

"Oh" and they ate their breakfast in silence.

Liz and Jane's apartment

Elizabeth had just sat down to breakfast and opened the paper when her eyes fell on that morning's headline. Her jaw dropped.

Wickham found Dead

She devoured the words on the page like a wolf snatching its prey. She was shocked, relived and not at all surprised. Apparently he had some debts to pay, he was dealing drugs, he didn't have the money and so they killed him. In fact she was so relived, for he was out of her life forever, and it felt like a dream.

She would have gone through more offending thoughts about the man, such as 'he was a jerk and deserved his untimely death', 'hey I could have killed him myself, but glad I didn't because I'd be in jail', but Jane walked in.

"Hi Jane" Liz said happily for Wickham's death was a blessing.

"Hi Lizzy. What's up?" Jane asked.

"Not much, you."

She smiled "Oh you know the usual."

Lizzy quirked an eyebrow "Oh and pray do tell what it is" she said leaning forward pressing her crossed arms against her chest.

"Charles is so wonderful" Jane gushed.

"Please Jane. You two have not been out of each others company for more than two minutes, it's only obvious."

"What about you and your Mr. Darcy?"

"He is not my Mr. Darcy" said Liz blushing "Besides his name is William." And she went back to reading her paper.

Longbourn Later that day

"Oh my poor Jane" shrieked Mrs. Bennet "How could he. Oh my nerves. You know not what I suffer."

Earlier that morning Jane received a letter from Caroline Bingley saying that they would be departing from Netherfield and would not be returning.

"Mama Please" Lizzy said trying to stay calm.

"Oh shut up Lizzy. That Mr. Bingley," she spit out "has ruined are poor Jane. He would have married too, but look my plans all for nothing. Oh my nerves."

Jane left the room crying and just as Elizabeth went up to go follow her Mrs. Bennet shouted "and you my dear Lizzy had the nerve to refuse poor Mr. Collins. And for what? Just so Mr. Darcy could up and leave you. Oh you insufferable girl."

Elizabeth left the room.

"Jane?" Elizabeth called softly.

"What?" Jane sniffled.

"Will you be all right?"

"What about you Lizzy."

She managed a weak smile before replying "I shall be fine, but you my dear Jane" said Elizabeth putting her are around her "Oh this...Jane are you sure you will be alright?"

"Yes Lizzy I shall be fine. I shall hold my head high and forget him and move on with my life." Yea right. I will never be over him. I will always love him.

Elizabeth was unconvinced, but accepted the answer for the time being. What about William? Will he come back, or will he do what Mr. Bingley did to Jane?

Six Month's Later

Elizabeth stared down at the book she held in her hands. It was plush red velvet, had gold lined pages, and had a deep burgundy string for a marker. She stared down at the cover where in gold was engraved Elizabeth Rachel Ann Bennet. She set the book on her desk and opened it to a blank page, picked up her pen and wrote:

It has been six month's since William and Charles left and still Will does not write me. Why?

Jane is not herself. She has the image of a mirror, just reflecting what it sees, but not really seeing anything at all. She really loved Charles and if he could just see how he broke her heart, maybe just maybe he would come back.

I wonder why William left, It pains me that I have heard nothing of him and he has not even called me, why? I miss everything about him, his kisses, caresses, his eyes, everything. I love him, and yet I know not why. Even after all this pain he has put me through I...I still love him.

Elizabeth Rachel Ann Bennet

Elizabeth shut the book and looked in the mirror. She bit her lip so as not to cry, but the tears came flowing like a river anyway. She cried herself to sleep.

In another room Jane picked up her royal blue velvet diary, with gold lined pages and a sky blue bookmark and wrote:

Elizabeth tries to be strong, but I know she misses William. She tries to be strong for me, but I wish she wouldn't. I feel the same thing she does and she hasn't even cried. I miss my sister, I miss me and most of all I miss Charles, the man I love.

Jane Marie Bennet

Jane shut the book and looked at herself in the mirror. She finally willed herself to bed dreaming of a blonde-haired, blue-eyed man named Charles Bingley.

Chapter 8

Posted on Sunday, 26 March 2000

Bingley's Penthouse

Bingley stared at the flames in the fire dancing like hungry wolves enticing him to join them. Bingley watched his life slip away. What life was there without Jane?

Darcy sat beside him thinking of the fiery brunette with the dancing eyes. The girl named Elizabeth who had captured his heart except for one thing She lied he thought. The words echoed in his head.

"You think you can have her Darcy?" Wickham questioned.

Darcy just stared.

"Well you can't. The little brat got a husband you know. She had an affair with me. We had wonderful little rendezvous'" he sneered "but I guess you would know that wouldn't you? She probably gave you everything."

"Shut Up" yelled an enraged Darcy. He picked Wickham up by the collar of his shirt and slammed him against the wall, his jaw clenched "You shut up Wickham. Don't you ever talk about Elizabeth like that again. She would never do that."

Darcy let Wickham go. "Now get out."

"You can't have her Darcy, she'll be mine" and Wickham left.

Of course Wickham had been killed the next day, but still there was no denying the fact that Elizabeth was married. How could she? I loved her and she...she betrayed me Darcy thought with silent tears running down his face. He became so consumed with his tears that he had to quit the room and got to his bedchamber. He left Bingley by himself, but it was not like Bingley cared, he was hurting inside also with the knowledge that Jane did not love him.

Darcy and Bingley came to breakfast the morning only to be hounded by Caroline.

"I am so glad we rid of those awful Bennet's" Caroline sneered "Especially Miss Eliza."

Darcy and Bingley remained silent.

"Eliza Bennet was always so plain and I never saw in beauty in her, although Jane was a dear sweet girl."

"Yes" chimed in Louisa "Eliza never had much beauty."

Darcy could take it no more. Standing up he walked toward the door, but not before tuning around and saying "Elizabeth Bennet is the most beautiful woman I have ever laid eyes on." He quit the room.

"Why what is with him?" asked Caroline.

"Perhaps" said an upset Bingley "he had enough slandering talk about the woman he loves." Bingley threw his napkin down and followed Darcy in suit.

Dear Cousin,

I write to inform you of the news here in Annapolis. William has been acting strangely dear cousin and I know not what to do. When we were in Meryton he met a woman named Elizabeth Bennet and they got along wonderfully. I thought in good time I would soon have a new sister, but then we quit the town suddenly. My brother will not tell me what is wrong. He has been so melancholy these past six months perhaps you could find out what is wrong. I don't know what happened between him and Elizabeth, but I am worried.

Your Cousin,
Georgiana Darcy

Georgiana sealed the letter, happy with its contents and sent it by way of express.

Chapter 9

Posted on Monday, 27 March 2000

Two days later Georgiana received a reply to her letter.

Dearest Georgiana,

I do not know how I can help your brother. Sounds to me like this Elizabeth Bennet made a huge impression on him. Perhaps you could suggest a trip to Aunt Catherine's. Keep trying Georgiana.

Love always,
Cousin Richard

Georgiana read this letter in with out further adieu went to see if she could find out what was troubling her brother.

Georgiana found her brother in the living room.

"Will" Georgiana whispered.

No answer.

"Will, please talk to me," she pleaded.

No answer.

"God Damn it Will" yelled Georgiana. William looked up shocked at his sister's sudden outburst.

"What the heck is wrong with you?"

"Elizabeth" Darcy mumbled.

Georgiana calmed down and sat beside her brother.

"Will what happened?"

"She's married" he responded flatly.

"What?"

"She....is....married." Darcy drawled out slowly.

"Did she have a ring?"

"Not that I noticed" Darcy said gravely.

Georgiana's eyes narrowed "And where may I ask did you get your information?"

Darcy eyed his sister "Wickham."

"You got your information from Wickham and believed him?" Her voice near yelling point. "You get your butt back to Meryton and you'd better get on your knees and pray to god she'll have you back." She stopped, panting from her tirade of yelling.

"I can't" Darcy blurted out emotionally and left the room.

Georgiana stood there and then collapsed on the couch crying. Oh why does he have to be so difficult? Why can't he just love her like he used too?

Dear Cousin,

William cannot come Rosings. He refuses. He thought Elizabeth was married. He believed Wickham. I don't know what to do.

Georgiana

Two Years Later

It has been but 2 years since William left and I have seen nothing and heard nothing of him. I guess that is what I get for falling in love with a billionaire. I should have known he would not stay and yet still, somehow, I love him. I don't know why, I just do.

Elizabeth Rachel Ann Bennet

Author's Note: I do not know if there is a Ritz Hotel in Maryland or even in the US, but I thought I would add it for.......just because.

The Ritz Hotel

Elizabeth and Jane were spending a week in Baltimore, Maryland. They were staying at the ritzy hotel 'The Ritz' in a double suite. They needed a retreat from their nagging mother who could not stop talking, even two years later, about Darcy and Bingley.

"Lizzy lets go swimming" said Jane.

"Ok." Responded Liz and the headed for the indoor pool in there bikinis.

"Darcy why don't we go swimming?" asked Bingley.

"Sure why not." responded Darcy and they headed for the indoor pool.

Indoor Pool
The Ritz Hotel

Elizabeth and Jane were busy having fun with their water fighting that they did not notice the two men come in.

Darcy had noticed the striking brunette in the bikini. The girl with a great body.

Elizabeth and Darcy's eyes locked, there was no doubt about it, that was Elizabeth, and that was William. There was no mistaking the eyes. Elizabeth quickly got out of the pool and grabbing her towel she started to run quickly out of the building until......

Chapter 10

Posted on Tuesday, 28 March 2000

Elizabeth felt herself slipping on the wet cement. She tried to scream, but no sound came out. She was desperately trying to catch herself. Right before she hit the ground she felt two strong, muscular arms catch her around the waist. She was lifted up to her full height and just as she was turning around to thank the man she tripped and fell against his chest. Again the strong, muscular arms caught her around the waist. She lifted her head, blushing profoundly, and her eyes met WILLIAM DARCY'S!

"I.... I'm sorry," she said getting up and she rushed out of the pool area with tears in her eyes.

Darcy felt his heart break when he saw her tear stricken face. I have treated her abominably. How she must despise me. Darcy turned to Bingley for assistance, but he and Jane were staring at each other, so he did the only thing he could do...run after her.

Darcy ran to the elevator and got on. He was just getting off when he saw her at the end of the hall, across from his suite. Before she could do anything Darcy was at her door.

"Elizabeth" he said softly and tenderly.

Her back was to him and she was shaking, most likely from sobs.

"Elizabeth please."

"Haven't you done enough?" she asked with forced calmness . She turned around slowly to face him, tears still streaming down her face. "You leave unexpectedly and break my heart and I....I hear nothing from you, not even a phone call" she squeaked out in between tears and sniffles. "And you expect me to take you with open arms? I trusted you with everything. After the Wickham incident I vowed to never ever let anyone in again, never trust again and most of all.......never love again and yet I broke that promise when I fell in love with you. Now I see I was wrong to trust." She spat bitterly.

Elizabeth walked into her room and slammed the door in Darcy's face. She broke into tears.

Darcy leaned his arm against the door and rested his head on it.

"I have been a fool" Darcy muttered "A fool to let her get away and I'll be dammed if I let it happen this time."

Meanwhile back at the pool

Bingley and Jane were staring at each other. Their crystal blue eyes locked. Jane still standing in the pool and Bingley on the edge. He lightly jumped and he gently took Jane's hand in his before saying "Jane?"

"Why.....Why did you leave?" she asked quietly.

"I thought......I thought you......you didn't love me."

They still held each other's gaze.

"I do love you and.....I still do." She responded softly while blushing.

Bingley was so happy that he picked her up and twirled her around in the water and she laughed. The setting her down he kissed her.

When they came up for air he said "Go out with me tonight?"

"Most certainly" replied she and they resumed their activity. Suffice to say the onlookers were sending out catcalls and hooting, but it's not like they heard.

Darcy slid down to the floor and hugging his knees started to cry. He had finally realized the Elizabeth was unlike any other woman. She was a treasure and deserved to be treasured. She didn't care for his money, what he had, what he could buy, or his social position, she wanted the man within, the man she fell in love with. I'll win her back he thought So help me god I will. I shall conquer this. He got up and went to his room to change.

Elizabeth was spent from crying. Her eyes were red and puffy and she ached. William Darcy was confusing.

"Well" she said, "If he wants me he will have to come and get me because tonight he will see what he has lost."

Elizabeth dressed for dinner in a short black skirt, pumps, and a black V-neck top the showed about a 3-inch midriff.

"He'll drop dead." Elizabeth said to herself.

Meanwhile Darcy was getting ready to strut his stuff. All he needed was jeans, tennis shoes, and a nice white shirt that was tight around the arms and if he got wet.......well that was her problem.

Dinner

"Hi Charles, Jane" said a smiling Darcy.

"Hey" they both said as Darcy sat down.

No sooner had Darcy sat down, but Elizabeth showed up. Darcy ran his eyes over her petite form and gulped. God she's a goddess. And that skin...that stomach. Oh, God help me He silently prayed.

"Hello" said Elizabeth sitting down. "What's up?"

Bingley and Jane caught the exchange between Darcy and Liz and made a silent agreement.

Dinner went smoothly and Darcy and Liz barley said anything to each other. After dinner they decide to get some drinks at the bar (oh yes there is dancing there.)

The Bar

Liz had her back against the counter and her elbows resting on it and a dry martini in her hand. Due to leaning up against the counter more than 3-inches of midriff was showing. Darcy approached, well strutting actually.

"May I have this dance?" he asked.

Lizzy raised an eyebrow "I am not inclined to dance with men who give consequence to breaking young women's hearts."

"Oh I think you'll dance" said he grabbing her around the waist with one arm, pulling her towards him. With the other hand he took the dry martini out of her hand and placed it on the counter. Elizabeth stared wide-eyed at him.

"I.....I don't want to dance" stammered Elizabeth shakily affected by his nearness.

This time it was Darcy's turn to rise and eyebrow. "Oh I think you do."

He dragged her to the floor and pulled her to him. "Oh I think you do" he said softly in her ear sending a tingling sensation through her. She did the only thing she could do and put her arms around his neck. After a few minutes he started to plant kisses on her neck, shoulders and behind her ear. He ran his hand across he midriff and the other down her back.

"Will, please stop it." Said a flustered Elizabeth who made no real attempt to move away. He ceased his activity and smiled into her hair. He knew she was affected by his kisses and caresses, there was no doubt about it.

Finally the dance ended and Elizabeth ran up to her room and Darcy Just smiled. Hit number one

Author's Note: In this part think of 'The Taming of the Shrew'. Elizabeth being the shrew and Darcy the tamer.

The next morning Elizabeth woke up with an awful headache.

"Jane" she yelled.

No answer.

She heard paper rustle, picked it up and read:

Went with Charles. Back Later.
Jane

"Great now what am I to do?" She scrunched up the note and threw it on the floor.

"Finally the fair maiden awakes" William said. He twirled his chair around and brought it up to the end of the bed.

Lizzy shot up. "What the hell are you doing in my room?"

Darcy just laughed.

"Well?" asked Lizzy angrily.

"I should do this every morning it I get to see you in that attire." Said he smiling wickedly.

She looked down at her spaghetti strap shirt and plaid shorts and back at him blushing. She grabbed a pillow and threw it at him.

"How dare you" she screamed.

He dodged the pillow and she rolled out of the bed and lunged at him infuriated. He grabbed her by the wrists as he stood up.

"Let go of me" she said through clenched teeth.

She looked like an Amazon all flustered, enraged and wild looking.

"No" he said amused by the picture of her as and Amazon in his mind.

"Let go" she said flustered.

"No!!" He slammed her on the bed and pinned her down with he on top. "I won't let you go."

"Huh?" squeaked a wide-eyed Elizabeth.

He leaned in, his face inches from hers "I said I won't let you go." He leaned in for the kill, placing a passionate kiss on her lips.

Chapter 11

Posted on Friday, 31 March 2000

A.N. Just to clear everything up Darcy is not trying to assault Elizabeth. He's just trying to win her back and he's not going to hurt her. Besides Elizabeth came at him like an Amazon and he had to defend himself. So no more bad thoughts about Darcy I wouldn't make him that bad, ok maybe I would, but not in this story.

When they surfaced Elizabeth kept her eyes closed and mouth slightly parted, her breathing ragged.

"Now" he said "would you answer me one question for me?"

"Hmmm" was her response, her eyes still closed.

"Are you married?"

Her eyes shot open "What?"

"Are you married?" he repeated.

"No! Where did you get..."

He speech was cut off by another long passionate kiss from Darcy who was thinking Good!

Elizabeth's breathing was irregular when the kiss stopped.

"If I let you go will you be a good girl?"

"Hmmm" she said nodding her head.

He barley let go when he felt a sharp pain 'where the sun don't shine (groin)' and a fist come in contact with his jaw.

"How dare you barge into my room like this" she heaved.

She started to run, but Darcy caught her leg and she fell down. Darcy came down on top of her and pinned her down again by the wrists.

"Get off of me" she screamed. It was not like she was attempting to move because she was rather enjoying the fight.

"Why so you can kill me?" he laughed and smiled.

She rolled over and soon they were in a wrestling match, to the delight of both, but they weren't letting on, and hands, knees, arms and feet were flying along with pillows.

"How do you think William is faring?" asked Jane.

"He's capable" replied her fiancé Bingley.

"Hope this works."

"My love, it shall."

"Yes" she smiled "It shall."

"Now" said Darcy who had Elizabeth pinned on the ground once again. "We are going to do things my way."

"What?" screamed a flustered Elizabeth. Darcy put on a handsome smile. He pulled her up and pressed her against the wall. His lips were inches from hers. "We are going to do things my way." He pressed his lip against hers.

Elizabeth surprised herself by her response. She moaned with desire. His warm mouth covering hers and his tongue coming in to play. Suddenly he pulled away, she started to pull him back, she was in need of more kisses, she needed to be fed, but he pulled back. She opened her questioning eyes to his.

"Oh No, you have to wait" he said heading for the door.

"Wait for what?" she said as she grabbed his arm.

"Oh no I said you have to wait."

"But I don't want to wait" she said with more longing than she knew. Darcy was tempted, but that was too easy and he liked a challenge, I mean after all he was trying to win her back not get her in bed.

"Wait" he said teasingly. He smiled wickedly and headed out.

Elizabeth's eyes went wide suddenly catching his meaning. "That's not fair" she yelled down the hall and stomped her foot in frustration.

"Oh yes it is" he called back. Hit number two.

"Men" she muttered.

"Well Darcy?" Jane and Bingley asked in unison.

"Oh she's falling hard, the little Amazon." He said.

"Amazon?" Jane questioned.

"Jane, your sister came at me like an Amazon. Gave me a good pop in the jaw, which still hurts like hell and" he pointed down "gave me a good kick there."

Bingley snickered and Jane snorted.

"Oh I'm so sorry" said Jane "You sure you still want to marry her."

"Oh course I still want to marry. Are wrestling match was...er...well stimulating and don't be sorry. I'm fine, but I don't think you sister is."

"What happened?"

"Kissing does have it's affects and how else do you think I quieted her down" he responded mischievously.

"William Darcy" cried Bingley.

"Well" Darcy said "How do you quiet her?" he said pointing to Jane. Jane blushed.

"Well" but Bingley knew he was right so he silenced himself.

Later that night: Dinner at a restaurant in 'The Ritz'

Bingley and Darcy were already at the restaurant in their suits waiting for the ladies.

First came Jane in a white V-neck dress with her blonde hair curled and cascading down her back. She looked radiant and as usual took Bingley's breath away.

Darcy patiently waited for his 'lady love' to come and take his breath away, which was only a matter of seconds. In she came in a pink skirt and a spaghetti strap top of pink sequins and of course a 3-inch midriff showing. Her brown curls were pulled partly away from her face, a few strands framing her face and the rest cascading down her back.

Through out dinner Elizabeth and Darcy were casting glances at each other. Darcy would say things during the conversation and be looking at Elizabeth who would blush and look away. Bingley and Jane felt like intruders and they hadn't even announced their good news yet.

Bingley cleared his throat. "Ah, we have and announcement to make" he said.

Elizabeth looked at Bingley and Darcy just listened for he had a pretty good idea what it was because he had told Bingley of his involvement of braking him and Jane up. Bingley at first had been angry, but seeing Darcy's regret he was forgiven.

"Jane and I are getting married" Bingley said.

Elizabeth's mouth dropped open and she dropped her fork on her plate causing a loud clatter. Darcy broke into a smile.

"Congratulations man" and Darcy slapped him on the back.

They all turned expectantly to Lizzy who was till in shock. She fainted dead away causing her to fall back in her chair onto the ground. It only took Darcy a few minutes to act and he was cradling her in his arms.

"I'll take her upstairs. No Jane you stay with Charles."

Darcy was walking out of the restaurant with Liz in his arms and people were staring at him. He was in the middle of the lobby when he heard the soft angelic voice.

"What are you doing?"

Darcy was so overjoyed that he didn't have to carry her all the way upstairs, that is not to say that he wouldn't mind, that he set her down quickly and kissed her so passionately that she fainted again.

Bingley and Jane had walked up to see how he was faring noticing that he had stopped and Bingley looked questionably at Darcy.

He just shrugged and said "My kisses seem to have that affect on her."

"We'll...ah...meet you back at the restaurant" said a bewildered Bingley and Darcy nodded.

Elizabeth woke up again and her brown eyes, 'fine eyes' looked up largely at Darcy's face.

"The goddess will promise not to faint again?" he asked softly.

She blushed and looked away. "I am not a goddess" she said softly.

He still had Elizabeth in dip position, one arm around her back and a hand on her waist. He stroked her cheek with the back of his hand and ran it down the curve of her neck, down her shoulder and side and quickly coming across her midriff, causing her to shiver from the electricity he was ending though her. He finally rested his hand on her stomach.

"You are a goddess and don't you forget it" he responded softly.

He brought his finger under her chin and lifted her chin up and his eyes locking with hers. His gaze was so intense that she tried to look away, but he held her face where it was. She swallowed hard and his eyes told her 'you are not getting away from me this time.' It was not like she did not like being in his arms because she was really content. She brought her arms around his neck and said:

"If I be a goddess then I must be Athena, so I must go back to Mt. Olympus."

"You are more beautiful than Athena and even if you were I wouldn't let you any where near Mt. Olympus because you would stay her with me."

"And I would not have it any other way." She said. He leaned down and kissed her softly on the lips.

When they surfaced he said "Now we better get back to the restaurant before they send out a search party for us."

Elizabeth laughed loud and richly. Darcy offered his arm which she took most happily and they headed back to spend dinner with some of the people they cared about most. Mission almost accomplished he thought.

Chapter 12

Posted on Saturday, 1 April 2000

Dinner was passed in a lively manor with all the inhabitants content for the time being. After Elizabeth's shock of Jane and Bingley's engagement she congratulated them and was trying to keep her spirits up because she was confused with her feelings for William. Two years ago she acknowledged that she was in love with him and she was now, but she didn't want to admit it. Truth be told she was afraid that he would leave her again and she did not want to be left in such torment. She was acknowledging all these feelings: longing, awakening passion, hurt, afraid to trust and everything that goes with being in love. She wanted so much to love him and so much for him to love her, she wanted so much to feel his touch, kisses and caresses. She still burned and tingled where he had kissed her and caressed her. She brought her hand up to her tingling lips and this action did not go unnoticed by Darcy who looked at her in surprise.

Could she have welcomed my actions? He thought Of course she did Darcy, don't be stupid. You saw it in her eyes, her smile and you felt it in her kiss.

Darcy finally sensed something: she was longing for his touch. She wanted his advances and here he was trying to win her back and he really didn't need to, he already had her heart. It also finally dawned on him that he must have had it two years ago. The two years Bingley had been apart from Jane and those two years that had been hell for him. If he hadn't have been so narrow minded and had let Bingley purpose to Jane that day he and Elizabeth would already be married divulging in the pleasures one can only dream of. Right here, right now he could be enjoying activities with his wife , well not wife yet, but he could have had the blissful life one only reads about in romance novels. He blushed at the thought, but it was true. He wanted to claim Elizabeth as his own and be able to say 'Hey everybody this is my woman'. He wanted to be able to hold her, touch her, caresses her and do everything to her, make her happy, be able to surprise her, indulge he in little gifts and trinkets, kiss her when ever he wanted to and most of all he wanted to love her, in which he already did, but he wanted to love her more.

Darcy looked up at Elizabeth and finally saw what he had almost let go: the most beautiful woman, the most lively spirited and bright young woman and he wasn't going to give up the fight yet, he was going to win her, even if he already had, he was going to make it up to her. He didn't know how or when, but he would because in his eyes she only deserved the best and the best is what she would get. Elizabeth looked up at Darcy and their eyes locked, neither wanting to look away, a cough broke their ravine when Bingley said "were going for some dancing, you coming?"

"Be along in a minute" said Darcy. Bingley and Jane hit the dance floor.

Elizabeth stayed in her seat and Darcy came up behind her, she felt warm and fuzzy all over. He leaned down and whispered in her ear "come, I have something to show you." She shivered in pure delight.

He took her hand and didn't lead her to the dance floor, but instead lead her to the indoor pool area. It was deserted and no one could see them from the restaurant. The moonlight poured in. The indoor pool area was glass all around, you could see the night sky and the moonlight dance across the pool as it played with the shadows.

"I believe this dance is mine" his soft velvet voice said. All she could do was nod as she took his hand and experienced more of those sensations.

He held her so close, like he was afraid that at any moment she would disappear. For a while they danced along the side of the pool and the moonlight cast unfamiliar shadows though out the interior and shed across them as if to say 'this is your night. Don't let it end. I shall make it as romantic for you as I possibly can.' As if taken by a sudden impulse Darcy pushed Lizzy back slightly and kissed her passionately on the lips. They were embraced for some time like that, he planting kisses on her neck, shoulders, exposed chest area and she running her hands though the back of his hair and moaning in delight . Finally Darcy had to pull away because he could not take much more of this.

"I love you Elizabeth" he said hoarsely.

"I...I love you too" she responded by looking him in the eye. It was the first time she ever said 'I love you' to anyone and really meant it.

"What?!?" he asked in disbelief. He wasn't sure if he heard her right.

"I love you" she said tenderly.

"You do" he laughed "Wonderful."

He picked her up and twirled her around. He was laughing and smiling and she was laughing an smiling. He set her down, but they had gotten to close to the pool and she lost her footing and fell in with a scream and a loud splash. She surfaced laughing and he thought she couldn't look more enticing than she did now all wet and hair astray, well she was enticing when acting like an Amazon, but her wet, nothing compared. Suddenly he felt himself being pulled and when he realized what was happening he hit the water with a huge splash.

He came up to Elizabeth laughing. "That was pay back for coming into my room." She said between giggles.

"Oh yea" he said and pushed her up against the side of the pool "I have my ways of revenge too.

All to soon were they engaged in fervent and passionate kisses in the pool and couldn't seem to stop. They had to, but didn't want to. They wanted to give into their desires and it was like it had to be right here, right now. Somehow they managed to stop because they were gasping for air. They dared not to look at each other for fear of igniting that passion again. They helped each other out of the pool and were dripping wet and wondered how in the would they would explain it. They managed to slip out and into their respective rooms before anyone saw, or so they thought.

Chapter 13

Posted on Sunday, 2 April 2000

Elizabeth woke up that morning with the sunlight streaming on her face and she feeling more refreshed than she had in ages. She got up and got out of bed and went to the door to retrieve the paper. She groggily picked up and sat on the bed, but what she saw in the paper made her want to die. There she was with William soaking wet, their little escapade had not been witnessed, but the aftermath had and here it was on the front page, them trying to sneak back upstairs without being noticed, but apparently they had. Just then there was a knock at the door. She answered it and found it to be William. He came in and she shut the door.

"I'm so sorry" he said "I just wanted to say that, I have to go now."

"Don't even think about it Will Darcy" barked Lizzy. "Don't you dare walk out on me now."

He stared at her and then said "You have a reputation and I can't ruin that."

"And as if you had no reputation either?"

"I'm sorry." He left and Elizabeth broke into sobs.

The phone rang and Elizabeth answered it to hear:

"Elizabeth Rachel Ann Bennet Why didn't you tell me?"

"Tell you what Mom?"

"That you and William Darcy are an item."

"We are not mom. Now good bye." Lizzy slammed the phone down and broke into a new set of sobs.

And as if you had no reputation either he thought. She's right. Damn it! I hate it when she is right.

Get's kinda descriptive, not totally, but if your young you might wanna skip this part. It's just the way it is worded..

It wasn't till later that night the Will showed up at Lizzy door. Elizabeth hadn't seen much of Jane, she was always with Charles. He saw her red puffy eyes and cursed himself. He came in, slammed the door, grabbed Lizzy and placed on of the most intoxicating kisses on her mouth. She was gasping for air when he said.

"I'm sorry. I want you." He kissed her again.

He stopped kissing her when he heard her cry out "Make love to me Will."

It was barley out of her mouth and his lips were on her mouth full force. She moaned in desire as he kissed her fervently everwhere. After two years of waiting the finally made love, the most passionate love that can only be made when to people love each other beyond reason.

Elizabeth felt an extra warm body next to her when she awoke. He senses were blurred and it finally registered that she was with Will Darcy. She had never felt so satisfied before in her life. She remembered the passionate love they made last night and sighed with utter contentment. She blushed as she remembered it, but she felt so unconditionally loved and even if he left her after this and she never saw him again, at least she could say I slept with the man I loved, the only man I could ever love.

"Good morning my love" said a velvety voice that made her jump.

She put her arms around his neck "Good morning" she smiled.

"How do you feel?"

"Utterly and completely satisfied." She looked deep into his eyes as he said

"Perhaps I should satisfy you more. I'm hungry."

She never did reply for his lips had already started their exploration all over again and his hands moved all over her. Soon they were making passionate love all over again, even more passionate she thought than the night before.

Later that afternoon when they woke all Elizabeth said was "Feed me" and they were back in the wonderful activity that could never ever be shared with anyone else. They were doing it again that night and into early morning and finally around dawn the lovers fell into a content sleep.

Elizabeth woke up late that afternoon, but she didn't feel the extra body next to hers. She panicked. How could he she thought. She got up out of bed and ran to the sitting room in the suite to see if he was in there, but nothing. Then she noticed the bouquet of flowers. She walked up to admire it. It was full of soft pink and lavender roses and a few soft yellow ones. She grabbed the card and read

Didn't scare you did I? You would actually think I would leave, you don't know me that well then. Meet me for breakfast in the 'morning room'. I'll be waiting. Love ya. Oh yea, for breakfast you might want to get dressed!
Will

She felt so foolish that she started laughing. She threw on a black skirt and a white V-neck top and a pair of pumps and sprinted off down the stairs felling all light, giggly and happy, oh and don't forget bubbly.

She reached the morning room and spotted Will. She made her way over too him and sat down in the booth.

"You about gave me a heart attack Will Darcy."

"What" he said in mock innocents "What ever for?"

"You know very well what for."

He smiled and said "I guess I'll have to make it up to you."

"Dang right."

They ordered the food and stated eating when she remembered she forgot to get something. She got up to get it and as she did William slipped out the engagement ring and set it smack dab in the middle of her plate. He made sure she could see it and it couldn't be missed. He chuckled at himself when he thought of what her reaction might be.

"Boy will she be surprised" he muttered.

Elizabeth came back the news paper and had just sat down when she saw the sparkling thing-a-ma-bob on her plate. She gasped as she about had another heat attack and brought her hand up to her mouth. Her auburn eyes looked up at William's. He was smiling from ear to ear.

"You can figure it out" said he pointing to the plate.

She started to pick up the object and gasped again when she finally realized what it was. A ring! An engagement ring. She stared at the pear shaped diamonds on each side and the deep red ruby in the middle on the gold band. She was gapping and was silent for minutes. Darcy looked on in amusement as she turned the ring back and forth watching the light dance off the gems. All he could do was smile and think Her eyes are so beautiful when the light up like that and she is beautiful.

Elizabeth swallowed hard and said "Is this what I think it is?"

"Well what do you think it is" said he leaning across the table "a necklace?"

He was so close she could feel his breath on her face. She still held the ring between her two fingers. Darcy gently took the ring out of her hands and placed it on her finger and then whispered "You gonna' marry me or not?"

Chapter 14

Posted on Monday, 3 April 2000

She looked deep into his eyes and said "Must I answer that?"

"Well if you want to marry me you'd better or you might never see me again" he teased.

"Don't you even think about it. I would have to be a fool to let you get away."

"And I would be a fool to let you go" he said slipping into her side of the booth. He slipped his arm around her and said "a complete and utter fool." He kissed her passionately in front of everyone.

"Why did you do that here?" she said flustered.

"Well then come with me."

She silently followed him. They stopped outside of their suite doors.

"Get in your swim suit and meet me in my suite in 3 min."

"Ok."

Three minutes later Elizabeth was at Williams's door in her two piece. He led her in to a room in their suite which happened to contain a small hot tub. She stepped in and William joined.

"Now" he said as he wrapped his arms around her waist "I am going to pick off where we left off."

He started kissing her, which she did not mind. Suddenly it was too hot.

"Will" she said huskily "it's a little hot in here."

He stopped his activity "Are you sure you need that swim suit?" he asked with an arched eyebrow.

She found herself blushing at the indication and Darcy amused.

"Well then he said" trying to ease her discomfort "Should we go down to the pool?"

"No" she said smiling mischievously "but I do believe there is such thing as a cold shower."

She jumped out of the hot tub running to the shower with Will on her heals and were other wise occupied for the time until Charles knocked on the locked bathroom door demanding to know what was up with all the noises and that is when they realized that Jane and Charles still didn't know about the engagement. They removed them selves from the shower and William put his shorts back on, but Liz just came out in a towel.

Charles and Jane looked from Lizzy to William and back to Lizzy and then back to William.

"Uh" Lizzy said blushing while she looked at William "He and I are engaged."

It took a few moments for everything to fall into place and when it did congratulations were flying everywhere.

"Let's go for to dinner and celebrate" said Charles. That is just what they did.

Chapter 15

Posted on Friday, 7 April 2000

Longbourn

Unbeknownst to Mrs. Bennet her 'darling' Jane and Elizabeth had returned the night before and had paid a call at Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet was exceedingly happy for the return of Mr. Bingley and did not yet know of Jane's engagement to him and Elizabeth's engagement to Mr. Darcy.

Elizabeth and Jane were gingerly talking about the men they 'loved' oh so dearly in the living room at Longbourn when Mrs. Bennet walked in shouting.

"Oh my dear Mr. Bennet...Oh Jane, Lizzy" she exclaimed when she saw them in the living room "did you hear that Mr. Bingley..."

Mrs. Bennet noticed the sparkling objects on both her daughters' fingers. Jane's sapphire ring had caught her attention first, but then she saw Elizabeth's ruby and diamond ring.

"Oh my G-d" she screeched and fainted dead away just as Mr. Bennet and the rest of the family walked in.

"My dear Lizzy what is going on?" inquired Mr. Bennet.

He did not have time to answer because his wife miraculously revived her self.

"Oh my dear Jane" Mrs. Bennet gushed "You are engaged to Mr. Bingley? Why of course you are because you are so pretty, but you Lizzy who is the man? By the size of that rock on your finger he must be very, very rich. Pray Lizzy who is he?" urged Mrs. Bennet.

Lizzy blushed and said "Mr. William Darcy."

It took a few seconds for it to sink in.

"Oh my dear Lizzy what a delightful catch you have made. Oh the money, the clothes and oh" she screeched "think of the jewels you shall have. You couldn't have done much better my dear, oh to think Mr. Darcy. Oh my nerves" she cried out.

"My dear Francine please" said Mr. Bennet.

"Oh Mr. Bennet this is your daughter we speak of. A billionaire oh how delightful Lizzy."

For minutes Mrs. Bennet prattled on and by the end of her speech everyone had sneaked out. She finally collapsed with a fit of nerves and passed out after her speech.

Caroline Bingley's reaction
That night

"Hello" purred Caroline who attached her self to Darcy's arm immediately, who just as fast detached it.

The men sat down dreamily smiling. Caroline looked at the oddly.

"What is wrong with you people?"

Darcy and Bingley looked at her.

"I am going to marry Jane Bennet" said Bingley gleefully.

"And I am going to marry Elizabeth Bennet" piped in Darcy.

"What!?!?!" screeched Caroline "Nooooo." She slid to her knees "Eliza can't have my man" she cried.

"Caroline I need to have a talk with you."

Suffice to say Caroline got the scolding of her life and said no more, but did still speak ill of Eliza.

Later that Night

Elizabeth stood in front of the mirror ready to get ready for bed, but she was daydreaming of her wonderful fiancé. She didn't notice the man come in until a hand was clamped over her mouth. She had no time to fight back, she only had time to register in her mind WICKHAM and then she blacked out.

Next Morning

Darcy awoke to the next morning anticipating the face of his lovely fiancé. Something delayed that departure though, but only for a few short seconds.

A marriage cannot happen
without a bride. You'll
Never see your precious
jewel again.
W.

Darcy frantically threw on his clothes, grabbed Bingley and they were out the door headed for Longbourn.

Longbourne

Longbourn was in an uproar Lizzy had been kidnapped. Mr. Bennet went to the solitude of his library to think. He felt the loss of his daughter most. He didn't know Bingley and Darcy had arrived until Darcy came to his library. Bingley was comforting Jane and Darcy said he would do everything in his power to find Elizabeth.

Elizabeth was in a dingy shack. It was cold, dark, musty and yuck. Food was left for her, but no one came to visit her except Wickham. Elizabeth longed for William to come and save her, but she only had a spark of hope left. She would cry nights away hoping Will would come and she dreamed of her self in his arms. Elizabeth was beaten and bruised by Wickham when she didn't give him what he wanted and she never did. Numerous times Wickham would ask her to have sex with him, she would refuse. She was already Williams, even though they had not said their vows before god they still had made love and she was already Williams. Wickham would continually say "have sex with me", but she would always say "no" and it was not like sex with Wickham would be love making, we get the point. Wickham would also ask her to marry him and again she would always say no. Wickham knew that Elizabeth was the most precious thing in William Darcy's life, beside his sister and if he took Liz away William Darcy would be crushed. It went on that way for two whole months, but Lizzy stayed true to William never giving in to Wickham's demands, but that last shed of hope was diminishing. Although her love never faded her hope was.

A.N. Due to the fact I don't want to describe what and how all these people were despairing while Lizzy was missing I decided to sum it up with Darcy's thoughts in one, yet simple paragraph.

For two whole months Darcy searched for his beloved Elizabeth. He loved her so much and couldn't live without her. Everyone said to give up she was probably dead, but he refused to believe that his beloved Elizabeth was dead. He would not stop searching until he found her, even if it killed him and he was 100 and never found her, he would never give up. One night Darcy looked at the letter that had made him rush to Longbourn that fateful day and the letter 'W' popped out at him and he immediately thought Wickham. He didn't have time to think why he was not dead like he was supposed to be, but he had to find his Elizabeth. He called the FBI, police, take your pick and headed for the dingy old shack. The fact that Darcy was searching for her this whole time and would not stop just went to show to those around him that he loved Elizabeth more than life itself.

Darcy stood outside the dingy shack. There had been a gunfight, but Wickham was caught and was being sent to jail and was now in the cop car. Darcy was let inside to get his beloved.

Darcy walked to the room where he knew she was being held. He saw his beloved unconscious on the floor pale, mud streaked and worst of all bruised. He let tears fall down his cheeks as he stooped to pick up Elizabeth. He cradled her to his chest holding her tightly, yet tenderly. Instinctively Elizabeth snuggled closer to Darcy's scent as he walked out of the building into daylight. She opened her eyes and whispered "Will."

He looked teary eyed down at her face and said softly "It's gonna' be alright." He cried some more. Elizabeth closed her eyes knowing she was safe. No, No, No, she did not die.

St. James Hospital

"Is she going to be alright?" asked a distressed Darcy.

"She's going to be fine. She is bruised up, broken rib, sprained wrist and ankle. She also lost the baby" he said gravely.

"Baby?"

"She was two months pregnant."

"May I see her" choked out Darcy.

"Yes of course."

Darcy walked into his beloved's room and closed the door. He walked up to her and held her hand.

"What baby?" he said.

"It was supposed to be my wedding gift to you. The day after we came back the doctor confirmed my pregnancy."

"You lost it" he said though tears.

"What?" said Lizzy's voice breaking into sobs.

"I'm sorry" he said crying with her. He laid his head on her stomach and put his arm around her waist.

I don't know the legal system that well and what the charge is for kidnapping, but I decided to make up my own little law for kidnapping in Wickham's case and I say Wahoo and good riddance to the...well I won't cuss so we get the point.

Wickham was sentenced to life in prison without parole because he had plenty of other charges on his record. Yea! Wahoo! Cheers! He's gone! And we shall just say he lived life in hell and misery. Glad he's gone, now back to the happy go luck stuff.

Chapter 16

Posted on Saturday, 8 April 2000

One Month Later

One month later Lizzy was released to the hospital. Darcy took her to his penthouse in Annapolis, but her family still visited. Elizabeth recovered from her injuries physically, but mentally and emotionally she could not. The experience was just to horrifying, but Darcy was there every step of the way for he loved her and that's what lovers do. Every time she would have a nightmare he would be there to comfort her, every time she would suddenly break down he would be there. His love never faltered and Elizabeth's grew everyday for there were not many men who would do what her 'William' did for her. She was truly blessed and she knew it too.

One day Darcy came home to find Elizabeth standing in front of a portrait of his mother. He came up behind her and put his arms around her waist and his head on her head and waited for her to speak.

"I should have liked to have a mother."

"You do" he said puzzled.

"Not one that cared for me. I mean she thinks I'm marrying you for your money and doesn't stop to think that it is because I love you. My mother never liked me much. I was never pretty enough and could never do anything right in her eyes." She turned around to face him, but stayed in his embrace.

"You are truly the best of men. You never gave up hope all those months ago. You refused to believe I was dead even after two whole months. I love you so much" she said with tears in her eyes.

"I love you to. I wish there was some way to show you the extent of it."

Lizzy smiled through her tears and replied "You already have. You continued to love me and never wanted to believe a word about me being dead. You have proven your worth I just need to prove mine."

"You just did" and he leaned in and kissed her like he wanted to do for so many months and she responded with equal passion. The spark, electricity, love, warmth it was still there only stronger. That night that love was proven over and over again and many months to come.

Six months Later

"Really mother" snapped Lizzy "I will not be subject to wear that. You're crazy!"

Lizzy threw her hands up in frustration and walked out of the bridal shop. Her wedding was next month in April and she still couldn't find a dress.

Will and Charles walked up to the bridal shop to see how the girls were doing when they saw Lizzy walk out and run her hand through her hair.

"Lizzy dear what is wrong?" asked Will.

"Help me pick out a wedding dress."

"No I want to be surprised."

"What do you want me to wear? Nothing?"

"Of course I want you to wear nothing, but save it for me. No one will see my woman naked, but me." He put his arm around her possessively.

"Do I get the same privilege?" she asked smiling cheekily.

"Of course you do" said he kissing her on the nose. "Now pick out a dress."

"How about a bra and panties" she muttered on her way back inside the shop.

"Save it for the honeymoon" William yelled.

Elizabeth finally told her mother it is my way or no way and Mrs. Bennet let Lizzy do all the picking.

Lizzy found a beautiful wedding dress that was BMW silk and the color ivory. It extended to the floor and had hand embroidered trim accenting the neckline, shoulder straps and chapel train.

She also found wonderful bridesmaids dresses. Her bridesmaids were Georgiana, Kitty, Lydia and her best friend Charlotte Collins. She chose for Kitty and Georgiana a burgundy color dress with an A-neck line. It was French satin and whisper chiffon. The empire bodice was of the whisper chiffon and the waistline was accented with soutache trim and satin spaghetti straps and it extended to the floor. For Lydia and Charlotte she chose a forest berry colored dress. It had a beaded empire top with a full chiffon skirt.

Later that Night

"Elizabeth" said Darcy "I have something for you."

Elizabeth wiggled around so she could be face to face with Will. "What?"

He handed her a red velvet box. She opened it and stared down at a heart shaped gold necklace with 10 large rubies and 10 petit diamonds in-between the rubies. She threw her arms around Darcy.

"Thank you" she squealed in delight.

"I'm glad you like it" he said kissing her soundly on the mouth. "Now let's see it on you."

Darcy took the necklace and placed it around her neck. He fingered it as it rested on her breastbone and he leaned in and kissed her again. They were otherwise occupied for the time being.

Chapter 17

Posted on Sunday, 9 April 2000

Wedding Preparations

At Longbourn the month could not pass fast enough for Mrs. Bennet. She was purely delight that she would have two very rich daughters. She made very sure everyone in Meryton knew that the men were rich and her daughters would be rich. She was all to pleased with the article printed in the Annapolis Times. It went something like this.

Bachelors Finally Snagged

It seams two of the Maryland bachelors Darcy and Bingley have finally decided to tie the knot with two beautiful women from Meryton, Maryland a small town just off the Chesapeake Bay. We all thought they would stay bachelors considering there years were up there. Darcy is thirty years old now and Bingley, thirty-three. Amazing two women caught there hearts.

Elizabeth Rachel Ann Bennet, twenty-seven, caught the heart of the most handsome gentleman William George Darcy.

Jane Marie Bennet, thirty-two, caught the heart of Charles James Bingley. They were married while vacationing in Baltimore.

Congratulations to the two charming women. Neither parties are giving comments as of now. The Darcy, Bennet wedding will be held Saturday April, 15, 2000. All we can say now is Poor Caroline. Guess her feeble attempts to catch the hunk William Darcy have failed. Oh well, she deserves it.

-Annapolis Press 2000-

Mrs. Bennet could not stop her constant prattling that Mr. Bennet took numerous trips the his brother-in-laws library at Netherfield, or should we say soon to be brother-in-laws. Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy were only to happy to oblige to at least give the old man a break from his wife. In fact when Mr. Bennet was at Netherfield it was where he go to know Darcy and Bingley best. He liked Bingley, but Darcy was his favorite, after all he did save his favorite daughter.

Wedding

The day before the wedding could not pass fast enough for either parties. Finally the day did arrive and the day could not have come soon enough. Elizabeth sat in her dressing room looking at herself in the mirror. She already had her wedding dress on and her hair up, but a few spiral curls framing her face. Today she would finally become Mrs. William Darcy.

Jane finally same in. She looked beautiful in her dress. She wore a white V-neck dress. It was sleeveless and had an embroidered bodice. It was a ball gown type, just like Lizzy's.

"Jane" cried Lizzy "You look wonderful."

"As do you sister."

"I can't believe it. Finally."

Jane smiled.

"Girls" said their father with tears in his eyes. "Shall we?" He held out both arms to Jane and Lizzy as he was ready to give his two daughters away, especially Lizzy. He burst with pride, but also sadness.

The bride grooms stood at the alter waiting for their respective brides. Richard Fitzwilliam was Darcy's best man and Darcy was Bingley's.

The church was adorned in white, yellow, pink and lavender roses. Everyone in the Darcy and Bingley family sat on the left side of the church and the Bennet's on the right side. Scattered out throughout the church was the town's people.

The doors of the church opened and the music began to play. Slowly, all to slowly for the bridegrooms, the ladies came down the aisle. Darcy on beholding his beloved smiled broadly as their eyes locked. Lizzy was overspread with the deepest blush. She was ravishing in the wedding gown she choose and the neckline was quite low, it also clung the her chest and waist area and she was really very enticing. Damn this wedding he thought.

Finally the brides had reached the end of the aisle. Mr. Bennet gave away Jane and then his Lizzy who he hugged ever so tightly. He still wished her a little girl, but alas she was a young woman in love and there was no stopping that. Bingley and Jane said took their seats to the shock of Mrs. Bennet who did not know what was going on, well neither did Mr. Bennet.

Elizabeth and Darcy stood at the alter while the minister recited his speech.

"We are gathered here today in the sight of god and angels, and the presence of friends and loved ones, to celebrate one of life's greatest moments, to give recognition to the worth of beauty and love, and to add our best wishes and blessings to the words which shall unite and William George Darcy and Elizabeth Rachel Ann Bennet in holy matrimony. Marriage is the most honorable estate, created and instituted by God, signifying unto us the mystical union, which also exists between Christ and the Church; so too may this marriage be adorned by true and abiding love. Should there be anyone who has cause why this couple should not be united in marriage, let them speak now or forever hold their peace."

The minister said more and then Elizabeth and Darcy were asked to turn to each other and hold hands. They looked at each other with such love it made people go weak in the knees.

"William George Darcy do you take Elizabeth Rachel Ann Bennet to be your wife? Do you promise to love, honor and cherish and protect her, forsaking all others and holding only to her forevermore till death do you part?"

"I do."

They same was said by Elizabeth who could not believe that after so long she was finally marrying the man she loved.

"I do" she said.

Then more was said by Darcy and then Elizabeth recited her vows with such emotion that she ended with tears streaming down her cheeks.

"I, Elizabeth Rachel Ann Bennet take thee William George Darcy to be my Husband. To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, and I promise my love forevermore."

They turned to each other and looked in each other's eyes. They had gotten to the first part and now they were at the part were the rings were given.

"With this ring, I thee wed. In the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen" said Darcy as he slipped the diamond ring on her finger. The ring had a round center stone and two side stones in the shape of the heart, the band of the ring was white gold.

"With this ring, I thee wed. In the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen" repeated Elizabeth as she slipped the wedding band on Darcy's finger. They gazed lovingly into each other's eyes.

"Congratulations, you may kiss the bride" and Darcy leaned it and kissed Elizabeth with ever rising passion. Finally the minister had to clear his throat which made every one laugh.

"I present to you Mr. and Mrs. William Darcy."

The ending music played and the couple walked down the aisle in blissful contentment.

"Why did you cry dearest?" asked Darcy as they sat in the limo heading to the reception.

Gazing lovingly into his eyes she said "because I am so happy that I finally get to marry you."

He just smiled as they resumed the activity from the Church although she did arrive a little devilish and flustered at the reception.

Wedding Reception

When they arrived at the reception Mrs. Bennet as the first to speak.

"Jane why did you not get married. Oh my nerves, how could you?"

Jane smiled as she looked at Charles "We already are married."

"WHHHHHAAAAAAATTTTTT???!!!??"

"We are already married mama."

"Who, What, When, Where, Why?" she spilled out in one breath.

"Who? Charles. What...there is no what. Where, Baltimore. Why, because I love him."

"Oh my dear Jane congratulations."

There were hugs and kisses and Darcy and Lizzy already knew so as everyone pored there congrats to Jane and Bingley they resumed there kissing activity and once the congrats stopped there was a silence as they saw Darcy and Lizzy and then there were flashes going off and they were oblivious to it all.

Finally Richard had to nudge Darcy hard in the side and say "Save it for the honeymoon you love birds." Which got a laugh out of every one.

After two hours at he reception and being introduced to everyone it was time for Elizabeth and Darcy to leave, but not before the grand finally. That being when two white doves were released in to air.

Chapter 18 ~ Epilogue

Posted on Thursday, 13 April 2000

One Year Later

It had been one year since Darcy and Elizabeth married. Elizabeth sat there looking through a photo album of the past year. She remembered their honeymoon trip to Paris, France and their scandalous love making as Darcy's Aunt Catherine might put it. His Aunt Catherine disapproved heartily of the match, but what could she do? Elizabeth also remembered the kidnapping, but then she pushed that thought a side and thought only of the happy times and then more to come.

"Elizabeth" called Darcy walking into the living room in the Pemberley Mansion.

"Yes?" she said looking up.

He stalked over to her and picked her up and kissed her passionately. She had given up her position as Manager at the department store in Meryton to move into his home, but she still helped him with the running business, after all she did have some great ideas.

"I'm pregnant" she whispered against his lips. He suddenly stopped kissing her.

"What did you say?"

"You're gonna' be a father, silly" said she slapping him playfully on the arm. He stared at her in wonderment. He then just kissed her all over and then made love to her, which might I add pleased her greatly and she was saddened by the fact that for the next 9 months she would have to live with out it, Oh what torment, better make the best of it while I still can she thought.

Nine Months Later

"Push Elizabeth" coached Darcy.

"I am G-d Damn it. Why don't you push?" she said through gritted teeth.

After a labor of 36 hours she finally gave birth to a beautiful baby boy and girl.

"What shall we name them?" asked Elizabeth.

Darcy swept back her sweaty hair and looked down lovingly at her and his two children.

"Richard William Darcy" he said.

"And Jane Elizabeth Darcy" she finished.

"Yes" he smiled "Yes."

Later that year Jane gave birth to a baby girl and named her Elizabeth Caroline Bingley. Elizabeth gave birth to one more child, Marie Ann Darcy and Jane gave birth to three more: James Frances Bingley, Christen LeeAnn Bingley, and Alexander John Bingley. All the inhabitants of this story lived happily ever after, well there were the minor disagreements. Not all lived happily, Caroline lived her life in anger.

Every man needs a woman and every woman needs a man, but until they steal each other's hearts they are normal people that claim they shall never fall in love and if they do, only the deepest love could induce them into matrimony. And so it was for Elizabeth Bennet and William Darcy. Elizabeth had thought no one could ever be welcomed into her heart again and William Darcy did in fact Steal Her Heart, and ours, and Elizabeth did in fact did Steal His Heart.

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