This story illustrates how personal prejudice and assumptions about others can be overcome through direct experience and open communication. Elizabeth Bennet initially judges Mr. Darcy as arrogant and proud based on limited interactions and second-hand accounts from Mr. Wickham, but through her time at Rosings and a series of misunderstandings, she learns to see his true character as noble, generous, and genuinely caring. The narrative demonstrates that forming accurate judgments about others requires looking beyond initial impressions and being willing to reconsider one's opinions when presented with new information.
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From Trapped to HEA | Discovering Mr. Darcy | FULL AUDIOBOOK (kisses only, matchmaking, rom-com)
Added:Discovering Mr. Darcy.
A dash of Darcy and Companions collection book four. Written by Linie Brown. Narrated by Christopher an authorized voice replica.
Chapter 1.
Fitz William. Lady Catherine called to her nephew Colonel Richard Fitz William as he passed the door to her sitting room. Your call can wait," she said in answer to the reply that she knew was coming.
Richard sighed and turned into the room.
"Just Fitz William." Lady Catherine's tone was stern as she looked down her nose and made a brushing motion with her hand, indicating that her other nephew, Fitz William Darcy, should leave the room. "Close the door," she called after him. She waited until it was latched, and she heard footsteps moving away from the room. Then she took Richard by the arm and pulled him further into the room. Sit. She motioned to a golden tufted chair on the edge of a grouping in front of a window that looked out onto the front garden of the house.
Richard rolled his eyes and did as instructed. It was pointless to do otherwise. Lady Catherine always had her way, although there was a price to pay.
It was far cheaper and easier to just listen. To what might I ascribe the honor of this private conference? It was likely some matter regarding the groves that she wished him to see to during his stay, for a stay at Rosings was rarely one of pure leisure.
Lady Catherine's eyes narrowed at his cheeky tone, but she did not reprimand him for it. He was always attempting to stir her eye, but today she would allow no such distractions. She stood near the window and tilted her head to peer out and around toward the door where Darcy was just exiting. "It is time he marries," she said. Darcy. Richard's eyes grew wide in surprise. This was not the conversation he had expected. In fact, it was a conversation he had always wished to avoid, at least with his aunt, that is. She nodded, and leaving her vantage point at the window, she took a seat across from her nephew.
Yes, Darcy. Georgiana is not getting any younger and will need someone besides just her brother to guide her through her first season.
But Anne, Richard began, he knew neither Darcy nor his cousin Anne wished to marry the other, and he was prepared to argue their points. Not Anne, Lady Catherine interrupted. They would not suit. Pardon? Richard was at a loss for words. His aunt had always insisted that Darcy would marry Anne. In fact, it was their supposed engagement that had kept Darcy from feeling a need to begin looking in earnest for a lady to help him secure his estate for future generations.
Lady Catherine picked at a small flower on the arm of her chair as she avoided meeting Richard's eyes. The supposed engagement to her daughter had been merely an elaborate ruse to prevent a most disastrous outcome for Darcy. He was not ready to begin a family. I had to keep him from rushing forward into doing his duty somehow.
Richard's mouth dropped open and then snapped shut. There was still no coherent thoughts forming in his mind.
What his aunt was currently saying clashed with what she had always said previously. Had she not taunted Darcy about doing his duty by marrying Anne?
She shook her head as if reading his thoughts. Darcy was never going to marry Anne, and Anne knew it. Richard's brow furrowed and his lips pursed into a perplexed scowl. You will need to explain.
Lady Catherine rose and walked to the window. Darcy was still pacing in the front garden. She watched him take six long strides away and then back. One foot fell in front of the other in perfect time and in equal measure. It was very much who he was, proper, dignified, well ordered.
I promised his mother that I would see him marry well and for love. She raised a brow at Richard, causing his mouth to snap shut on whatever exclamation of surprise he was about to utter. When Darcy's father died, Darcy was not ready to take on the responsibilities of an estate and make a proper decision about a wife. He would have rushed Pelmemell into an untenable marriage that would have perhaps resulted in a family, but not a happy one. He would have sat down, drawn up some supposed list of qualifications of a proper wife, and gone about the business as if he were hiring a maid, without one thought about the misery he would face as a result of his calculated methods.
She tipped her head and gave Richard a firm look. Do not tell me he would not have done so. You know as well as I do that he puts duty before everything. She shook her head. I still think he has no idea what sort of wife he requires.
Richard laughed. This conversation was not at all what he had dreaded it would be. In fact, it was proving to be rather entertaining. And you know what sort of wife he requires.
Lady Catherine returned to her chair. I do, and I have found her. She chuckled at the way Richard's mouth dropped open again. What Darcy needs is a simple country miss with a keen mind.
And you found her? Richard asked incredulously. His aunt did not travel, and so far as he knew, there were no acceptable country misses who frequented rosings.
Lady Catherine raised one shoulder and let it drop slightly. I believe I have."
She leaned forward as she prepared to tell him how she had done it. "My parson is the heir to an estate that is entailed, a distant cousin, or some such thing. It is difficult at times to follow his meandering."
Richard raised a brow and smirked, earning a wrap on the knee. I am not meandering. Richard inclined his head in acceptance, although the smirk did not fade from his lips. As I was saying, this cousin has five daughters, three of a good marriageable age, and two just reaching it. She smiled as the smirk dropped from Richard's face, and was replaced with amazement. Five was a substantial number of daughters. It was not the largest she had heard of, but it was substantial nonetheless. I sent Mr. Collins to find a wife from among them because I reasoned that if he should marry one then the others might be asked to visit on occasion and I might be able to select one for Darcy.
Richard shook his head. How did you know these ladies would be simple country misses with intelligence?
Lady Catherine shrugged and shook her head. There was no guarantee that they would be. But Collins had said their father escued town and spent the chief portion of his time in his study. I thought it likely that at least one daughter might have inherited her father's love of books and learning.
Richard nodded. That made sense. It was unlikely that all five daughters would be completely unlike their father. Was Colin successful? Lady Catherine laughed. No, he was not, and I really should have known he would go about it wrong. He tends to bungle things.
However, in his bungling, he has made my task of selection most easy. She laughed again. She refused him soundly, and she's not taken with Darcy. Quite the contrary, she thinks him proud. Her eyes fairly danced with Mirthth. Collins did secure a wife, however, and Mrs. Collins happens to be the future Mrs. Darcy's particular friend. That is how I know so much about my choice. Mrs. Collins is a lovely lady, very sensible, quite the opposite of her husband.
Richard's head tilted to the side as things began to come together into a coherent plan. Your parson has a guest.
A smile split Lady Catherine's face.
Yes. Upon my urging, he does.
And she is the lady you have selected.
Lady Catherine's brows flicked upward quickly. Clever, is it not?
Diabolical, Richard replied dryly.
Lady Catherine shook her head. Did you see how quickly Darcy agreed to visit the parsonage? I assure you that it is not because he has a fondness for my parson. She leaned forward again and spoke in a whisper. He danced with her.
Richard blinked. Darcy danced. That did hold some weight then. Darcy did not dance with anyone outside of his close sphere of friends.
Lady Catherine gave a satisfied nod.
danced and argued with her and then fled the area. He's smitten. Mark my words.
She rose and motioned for Richard to follow her. Note how he acts on your call. And when they come for dinner this evening, flirt with her. You will see I am right.
Richard rested his hand on the door knob. And if you are right, what then?
If they have argued, it follows that one or both might not be willing to enter into a marriage.
One does not have to be willing to enter a marriage for a marriage to happen, replied Lady Catherine, with a sly grin.
A compromise? Richard could not help the small bit of excitement he felt about the possibility of a sneak attack. I shall not admit to it now or later, said Lady Catherine. But they will marry. We shall see to it. Richard chuckled as he left the room. While Darcy might have managed to outmaneuver the ladies and their mothers in the ton, he would stand no chance against their aunt.
"You're smiling," Darcy noted as Richard joined him in the front garden. "Smiling after the completion of an interview with Lady Catherine was not a typical response. Rubbing your temples and seeking fresh air like a drowning man was a more likely reaction.
Though Lady Catherine could be quite pleasant and even indulgent at times, she was more often than not demanding when she required an interview.
It is a pleasant day, and I have escaped from our aunt with no more than a lecture on doing my duty while in residence. It was not entirely truthful, but there was enough truth in the statement for Richard to speak without so much as a pang of conscience. In fact, there was something rather like anticipation stirring in him as he considered how he and his aunt might capture their quarry. He would do as instructed and make his observations, and then, armed with the proper intelligence, he and Lady Catherine would contrive a plan.
Yes. Well, your duty only involves touring the grounds. Darcy knew his duty, as his aunt saw it, was to become the owner of the grounds through marrying her daughter, Anne. It was a duty that he in no way wished to fulfill. He sighed and rubbed his temple, thankful that he was out in the fresh air.
Richard glanced at his cousin. You should tell her of your refusal to marry Anne.
Darcy drew in a deep breath and expelled it. I intend to do so before we leave, but to do it now would make our stay more than a little unpleasant.
Richard's brow furrowed. You truly mean to tell her? He had told Darcy to speak to his aunt on each occasion when they journeyed to Rosings. Darcy had always claimed he would when the time was right. However, the correct time never seemed to present itself.
Darcy nodded. It is time I consider marrying in earnest. I am nearly 30, and Pembley needs an heir. It is best to think of that while there is still hope of securing a wife happily.
There was an heir to produce for Pembbley. This was true, but it was not his real reason for considering marriage. No, that reason, the lady he wished to find a way to marry, was currently installed at the parsonage in Hunsford.
He had tried to escape it. He had hidden away and surrounded himself with work.
He had attended functions and the theater. He had done everything he could think of to avoid what his heart was telling him, because his heart's wishes did not match with the list of wely qualifications in his head.
Richard chuckled. You think that with an estate the size of Pembbley and the looks of your father, you would have to force a lady into marrying you even if you were twice your age? He shook his head. I cannot think of any lady of my acquaintance who would refuse you. I'm not eloquent, Darcy replied. Ladies find my reserve off-putting.
That is not without remedy. You have no trouble smiling and talking with Bingley or me. Both you and Charles are like brothers. I have no trouble speaking to Georgiana either.
Richard twirled his walking stick in the air and slashed at a bush along the path. I have seen you speak to ladies at suarees.
I have been tur and often stumble over my thoughts. Darcy caught a loose stone with his toe and sent it skittering across the path. I wish it were not so, but it is. The right woman will loosen your tongue. Richard gave him a sidelong appraising look. There was a slump to Darcy's shoulders as if he had already given up hope of ever being able to speak to the right lady. Have you found a lady? Darcy blinked. No. No. He stammered, his ears heated with embarrassment. He was certain from the twitch of his cousin's lips that his reply was not accepted. Hopefully, Richard would just let it pass.
Bingley thought he had found a lady.
Perhaps turning the conversation to the plight of a friend would keep Richard from pursuing whether or not Darcy had found a lady.
Richard laughed. Bingley always thinks he has found a lady. He's far too amiable. He took another swing at a bush. But go on, tell me about her. What is she like?
Beautiful, well-mannered, amiable.
However, she seemed indifferent, and so it was suggested that he forget her.
Richard stopped walking. A thought of a disturbing nature began to form in his mind as he recalled a discussion they had had on the way to Rosings. This is the match you helped him avoid. Darcy nodded. So it was not her connections to which you objected.
No, I did not wish to see him in a marriage of unequal affections.
And this lady was one he met in Hartfordshire.
Darcy nodded. Had she demonstrated even a small amount of preference, I would not have suggested a separation. He sighed. I thought he would forget her.
He has not.
Richard could not help noting the way Darcy spoke, as if it were not just his friend who was affected. Is there a way to discover if this lady was indeed indifferent, or if a renewal of addresses might be welcomed?
Darcy turned toward the parsonage that was just within view. We could ask her sister.
Miss Bennett asked Richard in surprise.
Oh, this was becoming a complicated tangle to be unraveled. If the Miss Bennett at the parsonage was the lady Darcy was considering marrying, and if this Miss Bennett's sister had been injured by Bingley's removal from Netherfield, he shook his head as he realized that there might be one lady in all of England and its empire who would refuse a man like Darcy.
Chapter 2.
Elizabeth Bennett rose as Colonel Fitz William and Mr. Darcy entered the sitting room at the parsonage. She had known they were arriving and had expected them to call as was proper, but she had thought she would feel indifferent when it happened.
However, that was not to be. Her heart had skitted and thumped when her cousin had announced that the gentlemen were approaching the parsonage. And now, upon their arrival, Elizabeth's eyes took in the smiling, though not entirely handsome, countenance of Colonel Fitz William, but it was a polite formality.
Who she really wished to see was his cousin, Mr. Darcy. Her breath caught upon seeing him, and for once Elizabeth was thankful for the constant chatter of her cousin, Mr. Collins, for it afforded her a moment to collect herself.
Mr. Darcy was as handsome and compelling as he had always been. He remained now, as he was the latest time they had met, an enigma. She had still not deciphered his character, and it was something which drew her curiosity. She had heard it both criticized and commended, but she had yet to decide which tale held the most weight. Certain aspects of Mr. Darcy's demeanor, as well as the slighting comment he had uttered at their first meeting, swayed her toward believing the worst of the man.
But one of the sources of appribation, her sister Jane, caused Elizabeth to pause briefly in her judgment. Though she was nearly certain that Mr. Darcy was simply an arrogant man with little interest or feelings for those beneath him in status, she could not discount her sister's words.
"Miss Elizabeth," Darcy bowed as he greeted her. "I trust your family as well." He followed his cousin's suit and took a seat near her. The ones I left at Longorn were in good spirits and health when I departed. She smiled as she said it, studying his face to see if it gave any indication of his knowing that not all her sisters were at Longorn, but it did not. His brows furrowed in concern, and he seemed genuinely perplexed.
"Is not all your family at Longorn?" he rubbed his hands on his thighs and willed himself to relax. She was as beautiful as he remembered, and her smile was enchanting.
Elizabeth shook her head. Jane has been in London with my aunt and uncle for nearly 3 months now. Darcy's brows rose and his eyes widened. In London for 3 months.
There was no doubting that the gentleman in front of her did not know of Jane's stay in town. You did not hear she had called on Mr. Bingley's sisters. Darcy's heart dropped to his stomach. He had hoped to discern Jane's feelings for his friend, but he had not expected to be given such a ready example of her regard straight away. He shook his head. Miss Bingley made no mention of it to either myself or Mr. Bingley. He fidgeted with his sleeve. Is your sister well?
She is not ill, Elizabeth replied with a tight smile. Jane's heart was broken, but her body was well.
Darcy tipped his head and looked very seriously at Elizabeth and her spirits.
The question was barely more than a whisper. Richard saw the small quiver of Elizabeth's lip and the dampness in her eyes. The separation of Bingley from her sister had caused pain, a great deal of it, if he were reading things correctly.
Improving, said Elizabeth.
I wish I would have known she was in town, Darcy murmured.
Richard nearly groaned aloud at the look of incredul Darcy's comment elicited from Elizabeth. This battle would not be easily won. You would have called on her in Grace Church Street. My relations are not among your equals. There was a sharpness to her tone. Mr. Collins rattled the cup of tea he was about to hand to Mr. Darcy.
Do you mean to say they are in trade?
Richard inserted as he saw Darcy recoil as if he had been slapped.
Elizabeth swallowed and her cheeks colored slightly. She had forgotten she had an audience. "My uncle is in trade," she said, smoothing her skirt. "Much like Bingley's father was," Richard continued. He doubted that Elizabeth had thought her statement through, and he suspected he was correct when he saw her eyes widen just slightly. "Yes, just so, but not so wealthy. I do not mean to say they are poor, but Mr. Mr. Bingley's fortune is substantial and therefore sets him apart, she explained.
The neuvo ree, said Richard with a shrug, the world is changing. Napoleon and those before him have seen to that.
He raised a brow and scowlled slightly.
Not to mention the Americans, he added.
We must change with the time, said Darcy. And yes, I would have called, he added, since I'm not in town and cannot do my duty in calling on a friend.
Perhaps I could send Mr. Bingley in mystead. Would you allow me to inform him? Elizabeth could not believe what she was hearing. Mr. Darcy wanted to inform Mr. Bingley of Jane's presence in town. Was Mr. Darcy innocent of the charge she had laid at his feet of separating Jane from Mr. Bingley.
"Seeing a friend might lift your sister's spirits, might it not?" asked Richard, when no reply seemed forthcoming from Elizabeth.
Oh, indeed. A call from a friend is always just the thing to lift anyone's spirits, said Mr. Collins. And to have a call from someone, such as the friend of one such as Mr. Darcy in such a place in town, is not something at which to scoff. I am certain my cousin Jane knows her place, and would feel the importance of such a call.
Richard saw Darcy's face darken. Mr. Collins was obviously a fool, and Richard knew how little tolerance Darcy had for fools. So Richard smiled and replied before Darcy could. "I am relieved to know that Miss Bennett is a woman of sense. There are far too many nonsensical people in this world."
"There most certainly are," agreed Mr. Collins, and so began a lengthy commentary on what was and was not deemed foolish, according to Mr. Collins. for the others could scarcely insert a word with the multitude that fell from the person's lips.
Richard could tell by the twitch of Miss Elizabeth's lips and the twinkle in her eye that the absurdity of her cousin's speech was not lost on her.
Finding it challenging to listen to Mr. Collins, Richard began to make a mental assessment of the situation. Miss Elizabeth Bennett had been drawn to look at Darcy almost immediately upon his arrival. There was interest there.
However, she seemed to have a poor opinion of Darcy's character. Such a thing was not entirely unexpected.
Darcy's reserve often led people to believe he was proud. That would need some attention.
Then there was the issue of the injured sister. He would allow Darcy to attempt to smooth that over. Miss Elizabeth had seemed startled into silence at the mention of a repair being made, so the breach did not appear to be insurmountable.
at a rare pause in Mr. Collins commentary. Richard followed Mrs. Collins lead and chuckled at whatever it was that her husband had said. Miss Elizabeth's face shone with amusement.
The lady possessed a sharp tongue and a keen wit. Darcy would not tire of such a woman, as he did of the ladies of the ton, who had a limited ability to enter into debate. Richard suspected that Miss Elizabeth would not shy away from a debate. This was good.
He took a sip of his tea, satisfied with all the qualities he had observed in Miss Elizabeth. She was, as his aunt had declared, just the sort of lady Darcy should marry, and added to all these recommendations was the fact that she was compellingly pretty, and she affected his cousin in a way he had not here to foreseen. Darcy was uncomfortable around most ladies, but he did not dry his hands on his trousers or tug at his sleeves and creat as he did in Miss Elizabeth's presence. The battle might not be easily won, but it would be a victory worth the effort. Richard turned his attention back to the conversation at hand, just as Mrs. Collins was interrupting her husband before he could venture off onto another topic which none but he care to discuss.
"I trust your journey was good," Charlotte said, looking first at Darcy and then Richard. "Oh yes, how foolish of me not to remember to inquire," said Mr. Collins. It is one of the many benefits of having a sensible bride. He took Charlotte's hand. I tend to ramble, you know, but Mrs. Collins always knows how to bring me back to the point. I would highly recommend finding such a wife.
Thank you, my dear, Charlotte replied, as a hint of color added a bit of charm to her features.
How a sensible woman, such as Mrs. Collins appeared to be, had ended up with such a husband as Mr. Collins, and was able to seemingly enjoy his praise was beyond Richard's comprehension. But it could not be denied that there had been at least a few small looks and smiles shared between the two. They seemed genuinely content, if not happy.
Our journey was without event, said Darcy. It was quite pleasant, even if I had to endure it with one so silent as my cousin, said Richard. It would do Miss Elizabeth good to see Darcy being teased.
I was not silent, protested Darcy. No, not silent, but not talkative either. It was a prod to get Darcy to engage in a bit of banter. Darcy's eyes narrowed and he shook his head. There was not silence enough for me to enter more than a few words.
Richard shrugged, pleased with the startled look the comment had drawn from Elizabeth. Yes, indeed. She needed to discover the less formal side of his cousin's character. I do have a tendency to expound on many things. Darcy chuckled. No truer words have ever been spoken.
Elizabeth tilted her head and studied the man seated to her left. She had never heard him chuckle or even appear to be slightly amused. And such a spectacle must be observed carefully, for she was not certain when it might happen again. "And what sort of topics interest you, Colonel Fitz William?"
Elizabeth asked. "Himself?" muttered Darcy, his lips curling up in a hint of a smirk. I am of great interest, Richard agreed with a plum. But my father supplies a good deal of material, as do my brother and his children. He has two, an heir and an almost spare.
An almost spare? asked Mariah, Mrs. Collins's younger sister, who was also staying at the parsonage.
Richard nodded. She is a second child, but she's not a son and cannot inherit the title. So Millisent is the almost spare.
That is horrid, said Mariah with all the indignation a lady of 16 could muster. I do not make the rules for inheritance, replied Richard. My brother and his wife were so certain that their second child was to be a boy, that when Millie was born and not a boy, the moniker just seemed appropriate. He winked. She's only two, so the name does not bother her in the least. Her father is not so complacent, however, and it is for his sake that I use it. I still think it horrid, protested Mariah. As does my sister, said Darcy. Georgiana is forever scolding Richard for saying it, but in my cousin's defense, he never uses it in Millisant's presence. It is truly only a phrase to torment the Vic count.
Then I should like Miss Darcy quite well for rendering such a service on behalf of her little cousin. Mariah's chin lifted as she said it, and Mr. Collins cleared his throat uneasily.
I think you would like Georgiana regardless of her scolding of me, said Richard. She's a shy girl, but sincere and loyal, traits that run true in our family. One such as yourself could not go wrong in befriending her. Miss Darcy has a tender heart, it would seem, said Charlotte.
Yes, replied Darcy. Georgiana possesses a very affectionate heart. Elizabeth's brows furrowed slightly. This description did not match that of Mr. Wickhams. Wickham had claimed Miss Darcy was proud and cold, but then she was currently being described by her relations, and there must be some allowance for prejudice. It was only natural and proper.
Richard checked his watch. Miss Elizabeth was looking confused enough that it might be best to take their leave, while she was still feeling unsettled. "It has been a pleasure," he said, as he snapped the cover closed over his watch. "And I am given to understand that you will be joining us for dinner." Oh, indeed, said Mr. Collins. Lady Catherine is very gracious in her attentions.
I am certain she is, Richard said, as he stood to take his leave. He had no desire to hear the man launch into an exaltation of Lady Catherine's finer qualities.
If you would be so kind as to give me your uncle's address for Mr. Bingley's knowledge, said Darcy, as he followed his cousin's lead and stood.
Elizabeth blinked. He truly did mean to send Mr. Bingley to call on Jane. Of course, if you will give me a moment, I shall write it out for you.
We shall await you outside, said Richard, moving to the door and giving Darcy no choice but to follow, which he did.
They had been in the front garden no more than 5 minutes, listening to Mr. Collins elaborate on the flowers, when Elizabeth thankfully appeared, and they were free to return to Rosings, Darcy to write his letter to Bingley, and the Colonel to consult with his aunt.
Chapter 3.
Elizabeth could not, for any inducement, come to a conclusion on what manner of man Mr. Darcy was. When he had called at the parsonage yesterday, he had been amiable and polite. He had even inquired after her sister, and offered to reunite Jane with Mr. Bingley. Yet he had stood so aloof in Hertfordshire, silent and grave, often casting a disparaging eye on his surroundings.
Added to that, there were also Mr. Wickham's claims of Darcy's ill treatment to consider, how she wished that Jane were here to discuss the matter. Charlotte was a dear friend, but she was not Jane. Therefore, there was little that could be done aside from pondering and observing, which would have been easier to do last evening if Colonel Fitz William had allowed it. The colonel was a pleasant gentleman, and having an amiable gentleman, who also happened to be the second son of an earl flirting with you was not disagreeable, unless you desired peace toward your thinking.
It was also not helpful that the agreeable and engaging Mr. Darcy from the afternoon's call had been replaced by the scowlling and sullen gentleman she had often encountered in Hertfordshire.
Elizabeth paced a circle around a bench at the far edge of Rosing's garden, thanks to Colonel Fitz William and Mr. Collins. Lady Catherine had learned last evening that Elizabeth enjoyed walking, and had insisted that her morning constitutional include a tour of Rosing's gardens. Elizabeth had tried to refuse, but it was not to be. Mr. Collins would not hear of it, and having both Lady Catherine and Mr. Collins put out with her was not something Elizabeth wished to endure. She made one last turn around the bench before taking a seat.
She had to admit that the view from here was spectacular. From this particular spot, she could see down a soft incline to a pond and a folly beyond. A bird hopped out from under a bush, catching her attention for a moment before she looked back toward the folly. Tomorrow she would have to venture to it. Miss Bennett. Elizabeth jumped at the sound of her name. I do apologize for startling you. It was not my intent.
Anderborg took a seat next to Elizabeth.
This is my favorite prospect.
It is lovely. Elizabeth could easily see why this would be a favorite view.
I have tried to capture it many times, Anne said. But I fear my skills are not what they should be. She lay the notebook she was hugging to her chest on the bench. Mother had someone in to teach me, but I would have excelled more had I been exposed to the masters in town. She shifted so that she was turned slightly toward Elizabeth and away from the folly. However, my health is best in the country. The foul air of town is draining. It is so hard to breathe there.
The air is rather stale at times.
Elizabeth agreed. Anne laughed. You're too polite. The air is vile, which is why I will never live there. She smiled at Elizabeth. In fact, I intend never to leave Kent. I would dislike being any distance from my mother. She and Mr. James the apothecary know best how to help me when I become ill. I would trust none other. Elizabeth's brow furrowed.
Were not Mr. Borg and Mr. Darcy betrothed? How would she be able to stay in Kent once she married Mr. Darcy?
Elizabeth placed a hand on her heart as it pinched with sadness. It was strange that it should hurt just now. She attempted to focus her attention on the view before her, but her curiosity would not be quelled without knowing the answer to her questions. Forgive me if I'm impertinent, but are you not betrothed to Mr. Darcy? Elizabeth asked.
The strange sad pinching repeated itself.
You have heard of that? Anne asked in surprise.
I have, Elizabeth admitted. Anne sighed and smiled. From Mr. Collins, most likely.
Yes, he was one source. Elizabeth bit her lip. She should have just acknowledged the truth of Mr. Borg's statement with a simple yes. There was no need to bring up the fact that she had listened to Mr. Wickham's tales, and yet that seemed to be exactly what she was doing.
And the other, Anne's eyes were wide with interest. "It was someone who claims a long acquaintance with Mr. Darcy," she replied. "But it was not enough of an answer. Mr. Borg waited expectantly for a name." Elizabeth looked down at her hands, embarrassment stealing its way across her cheeks. "Mr. Wickham," she admitted.
That scoundrel, declared Mr. Boore, it is best not to believe more than half the words that come from his mouth.
Elizabeth could not contain her shock.
He seemed charming. Anne laughed bitterly. Oh, he is charming. He will charm a lady right out of her stays and stockings and leave her smiling until she realizes he will not be returning, unless she has a fortune, of course.
Then he will return. But it will not be for her. It will be for the gold in her possession.
Elizabeth gasped. I assure you it is true. I cannot give particulars, but rest assured he is no friend of Darces.
Not any longer, at least.
Elizabeth did not know what to say. She had been so certain that Wickham was trustworthy. He had smiled and whispered in such a believable way. Why Darcy did not run that black guard through for his treachery, I do not know, continued Anne. If I were a man and had been so illused, I would have. Elizabeth shook her head. Mr. Borg's words did not match at all with what Elizabeth had heard from Mr. Wickham. Mr. Darcy was illused, she asked. Not Mr. Wickham? She wrapped an arm around her stomach, which was turning most unpleasantly, and tears gathered along the rims of her eyes. If what Mr. Boore was telling her was true, she had been most assuredly fooled. Mr. Wickham had spoken so firmly, so clearly, so lacking in anything but assurance that his story was correct.
Anne's expression softened as she took in Elizabeth's state of shock. Mr. Wickham is a master storyteller, is he not.
Elizabeth nodded and blinked, but instead of dispersing her tears, the action caused one to roll down her cheek. "I would tell you the true tale," Anne said, but Darcy might not approve.
It is his story to tell, after all, and of a delicate nature.
As Elizabeth wiped at the offending tear, her mind returned to her original question. You're not betrothed to Mr. Darcy. Anne smiled and picked up her notebook. He has never asked, and I have never accepted.
Would you? The question escaped Elizabeth before she could think better of it. Why, she felt compelled to know this bit of information she did not know. Curiosity, she supposed she had always been a curious creature. Anne shook her head. No, he has homes in London and in Darbisha, neither is close to Rosings. She took a pencil out of her reticule. And I do not love him. I would prefer a love match.
Elizabeth did not know what to think.
The world seemed to be standing on its head. Mr. Wickham was a scoundrel who had used Darcy poorly. Mr. Boore was not betrothed to Mr. Darcy. Mr. Darcy seemed genuinely concerned with Jane's well-being. None of these things supported any of her previous suppositions. "It is most startling," she muttered as Mr. Boore looked at her surreptitiously.
"I suppose it is," Anne turned her focus back to the view in front of her and applied herself to her drawing.
Elizabeth sighed, her shoulders drooping under the weight of these new revelations and what they said about her ability to judge character. Most often her evaluation of a person was accurate.
Had she not deemed Mr. Walters a cad and a gambler, and had he not proven to be such, had she not declared Miss Palmer to be the only lady worthy of the parish recctor's affections? And had she not turned out to be precisely the best woman to fill the position of Parson's wife? Was Miss Palmer not now the most compassionate person to all those who called at the parsonage with a need? So why was Elizabeth now stumbling so seriously in her abilities to decipher character?
It was humiliating really to be so very wrong. Elizabeth refused to ponder it further, for if she were to start by admitting that she had been incorrect about Mr. Darcy and Mr. Wickham, she would then have to evaluate her actions towards each gentleman, and if being wrong in one's estimation of another's character was humiliating, viewing your poor behavior based on that estimation was thoroughly shameful.
Elizabeth remained silently on the bench next to Mr. Boore for a full five more uneasy minutes before excusing herself and beginning her walk back to the parsonage. As she rounded a turn in the grove, she came to a full stop. Mr. Borg had not said that everything Mr. Wickham said was to be discounted. Surely there must be some small portion of truth in what Mr. Wickham said that made his story plausible.
As she continued walking, she reviewed all that Mr. Wickham had told her. Mr. Wickham had claimed Mr. Darcy to be both proud in his actions toward others and cruel in withholding a living. Now she wondered if perhaps the living had been withheld because of whatever had happened between them. Not that such a fact did Mr. Darcy any credit. A vengeful spirit was not complimentary to a gentleman. But it was possible that Mr. Darcy had given the living to another as a reprisal for whatever wrong Mr. Wickham had committed.
Next she considered the greeting she had observed between the two gentlemen when they had met in Hertfordshire. It had been unpleasant at best. In fact, it had seemed rather filled with loathing, and she herself knew from that first assembly that Mr. Darcy could be very haughty and even rude. These facts were also not credits to Mr. Darcy's character.
She paused before exiting the grove and returning to the parsonage. The whole of Mr. for Wickcham's story must be built on the general disagreeableness of Mr. Darcy's personality and his unwillingness to restore a person to favor once his good opinion had been lost. If it were not true that Mr. Darcy was arrogant, and had Mr. Darcy's actions in Hertfordshire been more unpretentious, not a word of Mr. Wickham's story would be believable. She smiled, relieved that she had finally deciphered something about the man from Darbisha, and that she had not been entirely wrong in her assessment of him.
He was proud and arrogant. that remained true. She bit her lip as a pang of something stabbed at her heart. It did remain true, did it not? She shook her head. It would not do to be so wavering.
She would leave room to shift her opinion if it became obvious that it was not correct. But for now, she would hold to her assessment. Mr. Darcy was proud and arrogant. This was, after all, based not only on the words of Mr. Wickham, but also on Mr. Darcy's actions. Had he not slighted her most grievously? Had he not worn a disdainful look frequently?
Yes, she told herself, rubbing softly at her heart. It must be true.
Chapter 4.
Darcy turned his horse toward the stables. He had thought to walk in the grove this morning with the hope of finding Elizabeth there, but having seen her smile and laugh at his cousin last night, coupled with the comments Richard had made this morning regarding Elizabeth, Darcia decided a long, hard ride would be better. Of course, Darcy knew Elizabeth's eyes were expressive and captivating. He did not need his cousin to point that out, nor did he need Richard to alert him to the fact that Elizabeth was witty and charming.
Darcy knew these things. She was blasted in chanting for heaven's sake. That is why he was considering asking her to marry him. She had captivated his heart and mind, and he could not remove her from either, no matter how hard he had tried to do just that. He slowed his horse. He had no desire yet to see Richard. A brief time in the garden or near the folly might ease his mind a bit more. It would do no good to be agitated in his aunt's presence, for she would badger him until he said something unflattering or told her the very thing that was bothering him. He sighed.
Lady Catherine was not horrid. She just was not always pleasant. He chuckled to himself. He was not certain many would agree with him. The woman was demanding and imperious, but she had also taken both him and his sister in for a few months after their mother's death, to give their father time to grieve in private. she had been mostly understanding.
He swung down off his horse and took a seat on the second step to the folly.
Lady Catherine had not once said negative things about boys not crying or keeping a stiff upper lip. She had allowed Darcy to express his grief, and had even held him in a firm, if somewhat rigid, embrace while he had wept for his mother. No, she was not horrid. It was also here that had been a safe haven for Georgiana after her ordeal at Ramsgate.
Lady Catherine had limited herself to only one small lecture on propriety before seeing Georgiana set on a path to recover her spirits. In fact, Mrs. Ansley, one of Mrs. Jeninson's nieces, had been employed as Georgiana's companion on Lady Catherine's recommendation.
He shook his head. At times his aunt could be very helpful and caring. It was unfortunate that she chose to hide such qualities most times in favor of meddling in the affairs of others and arranging them in what she considered a better fashion.
Darcy squinted, peering toward the bottom of the garden. Anne was there, per her normal habit, but she was not alone. He smiled. Perhaps he would be fortunate enough to see Elizabeth after all.
He rose and began leading his horse toward the garden. He would find a gardener to see his mount returned to the stables. If Darcy were quick enough, he might be allowed the privilege of walking Elizabeth back to the parsonage.
Such a walk would afford him the chance to see if his addresses might be welcomed.
Fortunately, he was able to locate a gardener who was willing to put aside his work for a few moments to return a horse to the stables. Darcy slowly approached the bench where his cousin sat. It was not fear or nerves that caused him to be unhurried. No, he was enjoying the view of Elizabeth with her bonnet in her lap and her cheeks glowing from activity. It was captivating. He stopped a short distance away so that he might just admire her for a moment.
There was something wrong. Her head was lowered, and she occasionally brushed at her eye as if drying a tear. He began walking toward her again, but she stood and with a hasty curtsy began walking away toward the grove. She had looked in his direction and fled. His heart sank, and turning, he returned to the house to seek solace in the library. He was just finishing a third chapter in his book when Richard gave a loud wrap at the door and allowed himself entry before Darcy could either grant or refuse it.
Aunt Catherine requires our presence for tea, he said as he plopped into a chair next to Darcy. The ladies from the parsonage are expected, he added.
Darcy glanced up from his book and gave a quick smile of acknowledgement. I will attend her when I finished what I was about. Richard's brows rose. Darcy was supposed to be eager to see Miss Elizabeth. He was certain that Darcy had flown off on a ride in a fit of jealousy this morning.
I'm certain that you can entertain the ladies until I arrive. Darcy lifted a not entirely amused brow. You did a capable job of it last night. Richard smiled. Ah, his cousin was jealous. It was not so hard, he said. They seemed eager for some lively discussion, and there were no other gentlemen willing to provide it. Darcy rolled his eyes. You know that I am not so comfortable in social settings as you are. Richard shrugged. You seemed to ease when we visited the parsonage. I'd almost imagined you were interested in Miss Elizabeth. He studied Darcy's face for the telltale flinch of his jaw muscle.
that always told Richard when he had hit upon the truth of a matter that Darcy was trying to conceal there just then.
Was that not a flinch? Richard was almost certain it was.
Darcy returned his eyes to his book. I had almost expected a proposal from you last night, he grumbled. Your advances were not subtle.
Richard bit back a smile. Darcy was more than jealous. He was provoked. The thought should not have pleased Richard so much as it did. However, Darcy was not easily riled. So, it was a sort of accomplishment. "She is lovely," he said thoughtfully, steepling his fingers and resting his chin on them as if considering the lady. "She's not for you," said Darcy. "And why not?" asked Richard, purposefully, knocking his foot against Darcy's leg as he extended his feet and crossed them. "Your father would not approve." Darcy snapped his book closed and glowered at Richard. Why must his cousin carry on as if he was actually considering Elizabeth as a potential bride? Had Richard not always claimed that a lady's first a most important qualifying asset be her dowy.
Surely he knew Miss Elizabeth was not an ays. Nor would you Darcy added.
Richard chuckled and pray tell what makes Miss Elizabeth unacceptable.
Upon hearing her name, Elizabeth froze outside the halfopen door to the library. Charlotte gave her a quizzical look, but Elizabeth held a finger to her lips. Her portion is not ideal. Darcy refused to comment on the size of it in particular, for to him and many a gentleman with a good inheritance. It was not beyond consideration. However, to Richard, who claimed to wish for an heirs to allow him to live in a style to which he was accustomed, it was not enough.
A small matter, said Richard, struggling to keep from smiling at the narrowing of Darcy's brows. Clearly his cousin was smitten.
"Her family has ties to trade," Darcy said with a lifted eyebrow for Richard.
Lord Matlock was not backwards in his thinking, but some of his trusted political allies were.
That should not be an issue unless running for parliament, and even then it is not insurmountable, Richard retorted with a shrug.
Darcy lowered his voice. The only other reason he could think of to use to dissuade his cousin was not a flattering one, and he did not wish to have anyone overhear him say it. However, his voice was not quite low enough for Elizabeth's keen sense of hearing.
Her family, her mother in particular, tends toward the ridiculous in a loud and tactless fashion. Her younger sisters are ill-behaved, and her father does not to stop them. I believe he finds humor in their antics. Darcy's heart raced as he spoke the words, though true, they were cruel.
Elizabeth closed her eyes against the pain of his words. She was right. He was proud, arrogant, and heartless.
"Come," whispered Charlotte. "Lady Catherine will be wondering what has caused our delay."
Elizabeth nodded and followed her friend. "You do not know the context of the conversation," Charlotte cautioned as they entered the sitting room.
"Withhold judgment until you do.
There is no context in which such a conversation is acceptable, muttered Elizabeth.
Ah, finally you have arrived. Lady Catherine motioned for them to join her.
Miss Mariah thought you had run off and left her on her own. Her tone was slightly teasing, a fact that would have startled Elizabeth as much as her companions if she'd been listening.
However, Elizabeth's mind was still in the hall outside the library door.
Elizabeth had a pebble in her shoe, said Charlotte, tugging Elizabeth by the arm and leading her to a chair. She's a bit out of sorts. I think her walk was a bit too long this morning. Charlotte gave Elizabeth a pleading look. Elizabeth smiled. Indeed, I am a trifle fatigue today. It is most unusual.
Did you sleep well? Lady Catherine questioned. It is not unusual to sleep ill when not in your own bed. Although I do believe the beds at the parsonage are as comfortable as any in a proper house.
Oh, they are, my lady, Mariah assured Lady Catherine. I have slept very well, better than when I am at home, in fact.
They are most comfortable, Elizabeth agreed. I do not recall sleeping poorly, but it might have happened that my sleep was lighter than it is usually want to be. Lady Catherine tilted her head.
Tomorrow you should not walk. You should apply yourself to something of beauty that is not a walk. Her eyes narrowed for a moment, as if considering the best something of beauty for Elizabeth to consider. The piano, you said you lack technique due to negligence in practice.
Oh, I am certain I will be well tomorrow, Elizabeth protested.
Even if you are, Lady Catherine said with a stern look, I will expect you at half 11 to practice. There is a piano in an empty room upstairs that you may use without being disturbed or in anyone's way.
Elizabeth knew that to protest was of little use. Lady Catherine looked determined, and even Elizabeth's courage was not strong enough to protest such a look over something as simple as practicing. Thank you, my lady.
Anne, Lady Catherine continued, "You will inform Mrs. Jenson that Georgiana's music is to be left on the piano." She turned to Elizabeth. Mrs. Jenson has a piano in her room, you see, and she's been using the music. Anne attempted to learn the instrument, but alas, it was not in the talents the Lord gave her.
You, on the other hand, show potential.
There is expression in your playing that cannot be denied. If you were not so overcome today, I would have greatly liked to hear you play."
Elizabeth accepted the compliment, and then had turned her full attention to her tea, and a discussion that Mariah was having with Mr. Boore, when the gentleman entered the room. She dared not look at him, for she was certain that either her face would display her loathing, or her tumultuous emotions would spill down her cheeks.
Darcy watched her. There was indeed something a miss. In all the time he had spent in Elizabeth's presence, he never once remembered her adding so little to a conversation, and she would not lift her eyes to him except for the briefest of moments. Richard, however, seemed worthy of a smile and a tease. It was enough to send Darcy from the room before it was entirely proper.
He paced his room when he reached it.
Richard could complete the yearly reviews and tours without him. Darcy would stay one more day, but then he would find a reason to escape. He could not remain where he was forced to watch Elizabeth's attachment to another grow.
He sank down on the edge of his bed. One more day. Surely he could endure one more day.
Chapter 5.
Lady Catherine motioned for Richard to take a seat next to her at the table. Do you have his key? Richard shook his head. Not yet, but I will as soon as he has returned and his man has made his bath ready.
Lady Catherine raised a brow at him as she took a sip of her tea. I will have it, Richard assured her. He knew a thing or two about Darcy. And one of those things was that the key to Darcy's room never left his sight unless he was taking a bath. It was likely due to the fact that ladies such as Miss Bingley were actively trying to ensnare his fortune. To have taken the key this morning or even last evening when he had been in Darcy's room would have alerted his cousin that something was a foot, and that would not do.
"Was he still in high dungeon this morning?" Lady Catherine asked, as she placed her empty cup on the table.
Richard nodded. I could barely draw more than a dozen words from him, and the majority of those words were not at all nice or proper. Did you have to flirt with her so much? Lady Catherine gave him a mildly disapproving look. It was not the first time she had questioned her decision to involve Richard in her plan. He was so much like his father.
How many times had she and her sister endured their brother's merciless teasing until one or the other quit the room in a huff or succumbed to tears? It was as if he could not or would not read the signs that he had pushed too far. He was always repentant, however, and after he had married, he had finally learned the acceptable bounds between being mildly annoying and utterly provoking.
She credited Lady Matlock with that accomplishment. Richard did seem able to reign in his pestering on most occasions, and especially with the fairer sex, but when it came to his brother or Darcy, he occasionally overstepped his bounds. from the way Darcy had left the room yesterday and had been silent and disagreeable the rest of the day. Lady Catherine was certain that Richard had indeed pushed Darcy well past any tolerable limit. "It was what you said to do," Richard protested, and it had been a pleasant enough task. "Miss Elizabeth was delightful, and being a burr under Darcy's saddle was always good for a smile or two. However, he did have to admit he had never seen Darcy quite as put out as he currently was, at least not by something Richard had done.
Wickchick. Well, there was a man who could cause as much constonnation as Darcy presently displayed. Perhaps Richard had gone a bit too far in his game. The purpose of the attack was, after all, to provoke, not decimate.
Lady Catherine sighed. True. At least we know I was correct in my assessment of his attachment to the young lady. He's half in love with her already.
Richard laughed. No, my dear aunt, you're incorrect. He is completely besotted. He even tried to tell me why I should not pursue her, and in a very high and mighty fashion, condemning her connections and her family. The whole while he was rubbing his hands on his trousers and tugging at his collar. He leaned back in his chair. Darcy has never been good at speaking ill of the ones he cares about.
That is because he is a proper gentleman, Lady Catherine's chin rose as she said it. My sister would not have raised him to be anything less. Her eyes narrowed slightly as her lips curled into a teasing smile. Unlike my brother, Richard's mouth dropped open. I am capable of being a proper gentleman. I just choose not to be. It is so dull.
Lady Catherine chuckled. That is precisely what my brother would tell our father.
Richard shrugged. There was no denying that his father and he were alike, both in looks and temperament. And as far as he was concerned, that was not an imperfection. Quite the contrary. His father was well-liked and successful, and not solely because he was an earl, but because he was an earl with an exceptional character and a pleasant personality.
Lady Catherine looked at the clock. Miss Bennett will be here in 1 hour to practice.
Richard gave a sharp nod of his head.
Darcy will be back in half an hour if he's holding to schedule, which I assume he is. Lady Catherine rose from her seat. Mr. Collins will be bringing me his sermon at 2, and we will take tea together. Do not be late.
Richard smiled. This was a tea he would not miss for any inducement, for it promised to be a memorable affair.
Elizabeth stopped at the gates to Rosings. She did not want to practice, and she most decidedly did not want to enter that house. She did not even wish to be on the grounds. It was all in too close a proximity to that man.
She stood for 3 minutes complete, contemplating if refusing to do, as Lady Catherine had directed, was worth the long and nonsensical scolding she would receive from her cousin. Being barred from rosings was not a threat, but rather a consequence for which to wish.
How was she to even look at Mr. Darcy with any sort of composure after hearing what she had heard, and to think? She had been considering that he might not be as horrid as she had first deemed.
She shook her head, feigning civility, even to the likes of Mr. Darcy, was better than enduring a diet tribe from her cousin, for she knew that it would not be one rebuke, but an unending litany. recited and expanded upon as each new day dawned. Therefore, with an enormous sigh, she lifted her chin and marched to her doom.
Good morning, Miss Elizabeth. Richard greeted her as she came near the house.
Elizabeth curtsied and returned the greeting. I am here to practice as I was instructed to do. There was something not entirely pleasant about Miss Elizabeth this morning. Her eyes were dull, and her smile had no spark. My aunt can be demanding, he said as he tilted his head and studied her expression. You're not unwell, are you?
I have a slight headache, Elizabeth admitted. However, it is not enough to render me unable to please my cousin's patroness. She had attempted to use her headache as a reason to avoid Rosings, but Mr. Collins would not hear of it.
According to him, a bit of music would likely cure all her ills, if the glorious walk to rosings, and knowing the favor of one so great as Lady Catherine had been bestowed upon her, did not do so first. She smiled sheepishly. "My cousin can also be demanding."
Richard chuckled and accepted the explanation, but felt that Moore was a miss. However, there was no way to inquire further without being thought medals. He extended an arm to her. Allow me to escort you to your instrument."
Elizabeth could not help smiling at the flourish of his free hand as he waved it toward the house. Why could his cousin not be so amiable? It was as if the two were opposite sides of the same coin, one dow and grave, and the other affable and bright.
I must admit that I'm selfish enough to be grateful for my aunt's insistence that you play, the colonel said as they walked. There are far too many stays here that are dull. A new friend and music do lend a certain delight to this visit. He led her up the grand staircase and toward the family wing.
It is only when Mrs. Jeninson is required to play or Georgiana is with us that there is anything as pleasant as music about the house. No one else plays Elizabeth asked. Richard shook his head.
Anne's skill at the piano was passed on to her by her mother. He leaned closer and whispered. No matter how much Aunt Catherine insists she would have been a proficient had she practiced, it was not meant to be. Or so my father says. But you mustn't tell her I said so, for I will deny it if you do. He turned as his Batman, Mr. Stone, approached. Did you find the missing item? He inquired, but then held up a hand to prevent the man from answering. He needed Elizabeth only to hear a reason for his leaving her to find the piano on her own. He did not need her to hear any of the discussion about the item that was missing because it had been taken at his request.
He turned to Elizabeth. I must apologize. There is a matter that requires my attention. Three doors up on the left is where you will find what you need.
Oh, of course, Elizabeth replied.
Richard turned toward Mr. Stone, but not so far as to not be able to see Miss Elizabeth's progress. Do you have the keys? Mr. Stone handed two keys to Richard. And the bell et is disconnected, said Mr. Stone. From all three rooms? Richard began moving down the hall as Elizabeth reached the door he had directed her toward. Yes, sir.
And Darcy's man. He is resting uneasily below stairs, but unwilling to cross Lady Catherine. He knows the purpose, does he not? Richard stopped and waited until Elizabeth had entered the room he had told her contained the piano. Then he hurried toward the door and carefully locked it almost as soon as it closed.
He does, whispered Mr. Stone, but he fears he will lose his spot. I assured him that you and Lady Catherine would not allow it. Yet he is nervous.
Richard pulled his man down the hall toward the servant stairs. No one is to open that door or the two next to it.
The instructions have been given, Mr. Stone assured him. No one is to come to this floor until you have given the go-ahad.
Excellent. Richard turned and looked back toward the door he had just locked.
The handle was jiggling and there was a soft knocking. Oh, Darcy and Miss Elizabeth were going to be angry. He blew out a breath. I do hope they are in a forgiving mood once they have been released, he said.
Mr. Stone chuckled. I would have thought that you would have considered that before undertaking the scheme.
You can be replaced," Richard growled.
Mr. Stone shook his head. "No, I cannot be. Your father has promised my father that I will be your man for the duration of our stay in his majesty's forces." He grinned at Richard's sly smile.
"However, I realized that you could make my stay unbearable, and for that reason, I will wish you well in this endeavor. I await your command." He saluted smartly, and pivoting on his heel, left Richard to watch the hall on his own.
Richard pulled a sofa from where it stood near the servant stairs to directly in front of the door to those stairs and took a seat. It would be a long watch, but he must be certain that no one interfered with the plans that had been set in motion. "Have they been captured?" Anne asked quietly, poking her head out of her room, which was just down the hall. He waved for her to join him. "They have been. There has been rattling of the door, as well as a few knocks, but nothing further.
Darcy has not bellowed. Richard chuckled. Not yet, and I'm fairly certain it will be a while before he does, since he is likely very improperly dressed. An's eyes sparkled. Do tell.
Richard leaned back and patted the seat next to him, eager to share his tale.
Chapter 6.
Elizabeth closed the door to the room.
It was nicely furnished with a couch and chair in front of the fireplace and a lovely writing desk under the window.
However, this was as much as she could see from the entryway since an armwire blocked her view of the rest of the room. The piano must be on the other side of that arm.
She stepped around the piece of furniture and stopped. There was no piano. There was instead a very large bed with a trunk at its foot and a set of clothes laid out on the mattress. a set of men's clothes and boots. There were boots standing next to a chair beside the bed. With her hand resting on her racing heart, Elizabeth turned back to the door. She had counted three doors up on the left. She was certain of it.
She tried the handle on the door, but it would not turn. She pulled harder and then knocked softly as panic began to demand larger breaths to keep her head from spinning. Richard, is that you?
Elizabeth's heart lurched. No. No, no, this could not be his room. It could not be.
Richard, Darcy called as he entered his room, rubbing his head with a towel.
Elizabeth dropped her gaze to the ground. Mr. Darcy was dressed only in a robe, and she was standing in his room.
Oh, how she wished the floor would open up and drop her to her death. That would be far less painful than forcing her no it is not Richard from her lips.
However, the floor did not open, and her teeth, tongue, and lips managed to produce the sounds needed to alert him to her presence. She covered her face with her hands. "The door is locked. I cannot leave," she added to her admission, that she was not Richard.
"Miss Elizabeth." "I am afraid that is my name," she replied, turning away from him. "Con Fitz William told me that this was the room where I could find the piano. Your aunt insist that I practice, and my cousin would not allow me to remain at home, even if my head did hurt.
Darcy tied the rope around his waist more snugly. I was in the hall, Elizabeth continued, and a man came up to Colonel Fitz William, and there was something that was lost, and he told me to go three doors up on the left, so I did. And then I entered and rounded the wardrobe. She waved her hand behind her at the large piece of furniture as she babbled, and there was no piano. I tried to leave, but the door will not open.
He pushed by her and tried the handle for himself. It was indeed locked. "You do not have the key." "Why should I have the key?" she retorted, looking at him with wide eyes. "It is not my room."
Darcy raised a brow. You would not be the first lady to attempt to snare a gentleman in such a fashion. He clamped his lips closed and moved past her again to go look for the key. He should not have said that. She was not the sort to affect a compromise, at least not with him. Besides, if she were to attempt to snare anyone in this house, it would be Richard. Darcy pulled out drawers and searched for the key. Not finding it anywhere in his dresser, he got down on his knees and felt under the bed. You think I would try to trap you? Elizabeth had finally found her voice after such a startling accusation. If it were my intent to do so, I would have done it while at Netherfield. But why should I want to be tight to you?" She folded her arms and glared at him as her anger overcame her embarrassment at seeing him dressed as he was, with his bare feet and calves poking out from under his robe as he knelt on the floor. I should hope to marry a man with some sensibility, or at least one who knows how to smile.
Thank you for clarifying your opinion of me. He rose from the floor and rounding the bed to the far side of the room opened a door. You will find a piano in here. There is a sitting room between my room and the room my sister uses when she is here. He stepped back and waited for Elizabeth to cross the room and go through the door. Then he closed it and leaned against it. He was correct in one thing. She disliked him. He pushed off the door, gathered up his clothes, and took them to the dressing room to attempt to make himself somewhat presentable.
Elizabeth stood just inside the sitting room, her anger fading, and a strange sadness filling her heart. Mr. Darcy had not raised his voice in return to her harsh words. He had merely replied softly, as if what she had said had cut him to the core. She would have preferred him to bluster about. She bit her lip and looked back at the door to his room and then crossed to the instrument.
A small pile of music lay neatly on the side, and one piece was spread out as if waiting for her to attempt it. Her eyes ran over the notes as they rose and fell on the staff. It was not a simple piece, but it was not completely beyond her skills. She began by picking out the notes on the upper staff with her right hand. Then, reaching the end of the piece, she did the same with her left hand before attempting to combine the two.
Darcy heard her slowly picking out the tune of a familiar song as he dressed.
It reminded him of hearing Georgiana approach a new composition, how he loved to watch her tip her head and bite her lip as she concentrated on learning the fingering and committing the melody to memory. He wondered if Elizabeth did the same. He pulled on one stocking and then another. His boots he would do without, just as he would do without his jacket and crevat. He pulled a pocketk knife out of his dresser and attempted to force the lock open on his door, but it was of no use. He returned the knife to its drawer and sank into a chair by the fireplace. He would read until she left.
Then he would ring for his man and make himself presentable in time for tea.
For 20 minutes, Darcy stared at a book and thought about the lady in the other room. For the same 20 minutes, Elizabeth attempted to apply herself to her music, but found her mind wandering to the gentleman beyond the door. "He was insufferable," she reminded herself.
"Handsome and wealthy, but insufferable."
Finally, she rose from the instrument.
She had practiced as required. Neither Lady Catherine nor Mr. Collins had indicated how long she had to play. She pulled on the door to the room, but it did not budge. She pulled harder, but without success. There was yet another door she could try, the one in Miss Darcy's bedroom. She hurried through the door that had joined the sitting room and tried Miss Darcy's door, but it, like all the others, would not budge.
With a resigned sigh, she returned to the piano and sat on the bench, but did not touch the keys. She was trapped, well and truly trapped. There was no way to leave these rooms without someone coming to let her out. In the other room, Darcy snapped his book closed. He had not heard a door open or close, but she was not playing, so she must have left. He pulled his bell and then went to the sitting room door and peakedked in. Elizabeth sat at the instrument with her hands covering her face and her shoulders rising and falling as she cried. No matter what she had said to him, no matter what she thought of him, he could not allow her to go uncomforted.
Miss Elizabeth," he said softly as he approached her, "Are you well?" It was a silly thing to say when a lady was weeping, but what else could he ask? She rubbed the tears from her cheeks with her hands and shrugged. "They are all locked," she said. He handed her a handkerchief and took the chair next to the piano, where he always sat to turn pages for his sister. "What are all locked?" "The doors." Her reply was somewhat muffled by the cloth she was using to dry her face.
This door?" he asked. She nodded. And the one in Miss Darcy's room. We are trapped. The oddness of the situation settled uneasily around Darcy. Three doors locked and no keys to open them.
He knew that the keys for this room and Georgiana's were kept by the housekeeper and Lady Catherine unless Geiana was in residence. The fact that the door to this room had not been left unlocked if it was intended to be the room where Elizabeth practiced did not make sense.
I have rung for my man, he said. When he comes, you will be able to escape.
From your room, she blew her nose softly. Yes. And if someone sees me exiting your room, "What then?" he sighed. That would be up to you. He would marry her, but only if she wished it. He would not force her. The situation might be able to be covered.
"You would leave it to me. It is my choice." He nodded. There would be no option. We would have to marry. The thought did not terrify her as much as she had expected. Mr. Darcy was a sullen, arrogant man, but surely he would be kind to his wife. Only if you wished it, he restated. I would not force my disagreeable self on you. There was a touch of bitterness in his tone.
You would leave me a ruined woman. He shook his head. No, I would never do anything to harm you. I would see that the story was not spread and you would be free to choose whomver you wished.
She tipped her head and looked at him.
Truly.
His smile was quick and sad, though it would break my heart. Yes. He rose and paced to the window. Richard has a small inheritance and a pension.
She stared after him. Did he mean that he wished to marry her? That was not possible. My connections are unsuitable, she said, and my family ridiculous.
As she wiped at her eyes again, his second comment finally took root in her thinking. Colonel Fitz William. He glanced over his shoulder towards her.
If you are considering him, you should know his circumstances.
Her eyes grew wide. I am certain he would prefer an ays. I am of little standing, far too poor for the likes of him or you, she laughed bitterly.
Perhaps I should have accepted Mr. Collins when he offered. Darcy whipped around. Collins proposed to you? What was he thinking?
Elizabeth gasped and drew back as if slapped. I assure you, Mr. Darcy, that though I am unsuitable for you, I am not unacceptable to everyone. Tears began falling down her cheeks again. Darcy shook his head and swallowed. I did not mean that you were unsuitable for him.
He is not your equal, but it is not because of any deficiency in you. You are far superior to him. He dipped his head. And to any lady of my acquaintance.
Elizabeth rose from the piano. Stop it.
Stop what? He asked, concern etching his features. Please speak your meaning, sir. I am. Elizabeth shook her head. You said that I was unacceptable because my portion was small, my family was ridiculous, and my relatives are in trade. Yet you offer to reunite Jane and Mr. Bingley, and you dare to say I'm superior to anyone. These things do not agree. Tell me which is true and which is false. What is your opinion of me?
Darcy's stomach nodded. Had she heard him speaking to Richard? When did I say you were unacceptable?
Elizabeth turned away from him. It would be easier to admit where she'd heard it if she did not have to see his face.
Yesterday in the library. You heard that? His question was soft and anxious, causing her to turn toward him. I did.
He closed his eyes and shook his head.
Then he crossed the room and taking her by her elbow led her to a seat. I know that you may not believe me, but I said those things because I was jealous.
Elizabeth blinked. Of what? Was he jealous? You seem to welcome Richard's attentions, and he seemed to be falling under your spell. I wish to dissuade him from pursuing you further.
Her head tipped and her brows furrowed.
Because it would be an embarrassment to your family. He shook his head and grasped her hands. No, because I wanted you for myself.
Her eyes grew wide and her lips parted.
It was a charming expression and one that required he smile. I admit that they are arguments I used in an attempt to discourage myself after I left Netherfield, and they worked well enough to keep me from climbing on my horse and returning to you, as I wish to do each and every morning, but they have not discouraged me completely.
Her expression did not change except for a flutter of lashes. I promised myself that if our path should cross again without my arranging it, I would not leave you without pressing my suit as far as you would allow it. He smiled and squeezed her hands. Each point of my arguments to myself can be reasoned away. What do I need with an aires? My fortune is substantial and my estate is not failing. Am I not already connected to trade through Bingley? Another connection would do little harm. And have you not met my aunt? We all have relations who are in one way or another ridiculous.
He released her hands and dared to place a hand on her cheek. I cannot speak more plainly than this. I love you most ardently.
He brushed a tear away with his thumb. I would be honored if you were to choose me as your husband, but I fear that your opinion is such that it will never be.
He drew a breath and removed his hand from her cheek. and as much as it would pain me to see you with another, I would not place my wishes above yours."
Elizabeth stood and paced to the piano and back to the couch before returning to the piano and leaning on it as she turned to face him. "You love me?" he nodded most ardently. "How?" Darcy shrugged. "I do not know. I was in the middle of it before I knew I had begun."
He waited as she considered what he had said, hoping against hope that he had some chance of winning her heart.
Chapter 7.
Elizabeth drew and released a breath, her brow furrowed. You must be mistaken.
I am not, he assured her as his heart clenched. She was going to refuse him.
But I am merely tolerable. She raised her shoulders and allowed them to fall.
You looked to find fault, did you not?
Is that not why you wore such a serious and critical expression when at Netherfield? Had she misunderstood his actions?
He stood and joined her at the piano. It was impossible to speak to her of his heart when she was so far from him. I cannot explain away the first charge. I spoke harshly. There were reasons, but they do not justify my words. I was wrong. You have never ceased to tempt me. I found it challenging to conceal my interest. I wish to hear your thoughts, to see you smile, and to have you debate and challenge me. But there were others who would not have allowed it to pass unnoticed. He smiled sheepishly. I spoke unkindly to those people in an effort to hide my feelings, just as I scowlled when I wished to worship.
Elizabeth laid a hand on her heart and reminded herself to breathe. He had not been critiquing and criticizing her every movement. "Miss Bingley holds no place in your heart," she asked. he chuckled, only as the sister of a friend because she must, I find her trying at best. Elizabeth tilted her head. Her brows were still furrowed. Was there anything she had accurately deciphered about Mr. Darcy?
There is only you, he added, stepping just a half step closer to her. She shook her head. "I do not know you," she said as she gave a half shrug. "I thought I did, but I do not." "What do you wish to know?" He clasped his hands behind his back to keep from touching her. Her gaze dropped to the floor and she shifted uneasily. "You may ask me anything," he prompted.
She peeked up at him. "It does me no credit," she admitted. He smiled encouragingly. "That does not signify.
My actions have not done me a great service either. I I was speaking with Mr. Borg," she stammered as her hands twisted nervously. There were stories that I had been told regarding you, but something she said has made me doubt their veracity. Darcy's jaw clenched. He was nearly certain he knew the tales she had heard, and from whom she had heard them. "Wickham!" It was only one word, but spoken with such loathing that Elizabeth took a small step to the side.
Darcy drew in a great breath and released it slowly. "What did he tell you? That I refused him the living that he had previously rejected?
She nodded, though she felt somewhat confused. Wickham had told her about a living that was refused. He had not, however, mentioned having rejected it.
Wickham is unfit for such a position, but that is not the sole reason for my refusal. Did he tell you that I had already given him £3,000 in lie of the living, and that he had wasted it in gambling and lentious living? Here he briefly told her of his father's regard for Wickham. Her eyes grew wide in astonishment. £3,000 and the additional thousand that my father had left him, all gone within a very short time. He was certain there were other things that had been told in halftruths and veiled lies. But that is not the worst of it, he continued. It is not. Darcy's expression was grim, and Elizabeth feared what else she might hear. He prayed upon my sister's tender heart. Elizabeth gasped. Come sit. I will tell you the tale, he offered, but I must caution you that it is not pretty. He took a seat next to her on the couch, and gaining her assurance that what he shared would be heard in confidence, he began telling her about how Wickham had duped Geiana into believing she was in love, and about their planned elopement. Had I not arrived when I did, and had my sister's heart not been as soft as it is, she would have been lost to me.
Is he truly so rapacious? Elizabeth's emotions fluctuated between fury at Wickcham's duplicity and disappointment in herself for having accepted his tale so readily.
Sadly, he is. He could not resist taking her hand any longer. He is also a practiced deceiver, and not even I am capable of feriting out every cheat. If I were, Mrs. Young would have never been hired as my sister's companion, and Wickham's scheming would have come to Nort before Georgiana was injured.
Elizabeth gave the hand that held hers a comforting squeeze. He was not as unreasonable as she had deemed him, nor was he unable to acknowledge his own faults. "When did this happened?" she asked. "Last summer." She covered his hand with her free one. So that is your reason for speaking harshly. His sheepish smile and slight nod assured her that she was correct. She gave his hand a pat, and then, withdrawing both of her hands from his, she stood.
Very well, Mr. Darcy. You're forgiven for your harsh words and grim looks. She cocked one brow impertinently before growing serious again. I do hope you can forgive me for listening to such horrid tales and thinking so ill of you. She was rewarded with a smile. I will take that as a yes. Now, where does that leave us?"
He cast a glance around the room as if puzzled, and then, with all seriousness, replied, "I believe that leaves us locked in this sitting room."
Her eyes grew wide, and a small giggle escaped her. "You tease?"
Though I am not as skilled at it as my cousin, I am capable of occasionally teasing, and contrary to the decrees of Miss Bingley, I'm not averse to being teased by those I love. The way her lips pursed delightfully and her eyes sparkled, he was certain that he could learn to tease more often for such a reward.
Elizabeth turned and walked toward the window. He was not at all what she had thought. His character was noble and little wanting. His heart was soft and generous, and he was not without a sense of humor. He was very likely the exact sort of gentleman who would suit her best. Besides your limited ability to tease, what else do you have to offer?
You mean besides my heart? He chuckled when she rolled her eyes and shook her head. I have an estate and a sizable income, but I think you are already aware of that. She nodded and leaned against the wall next to the window. My mother may be silly and lacking in decorum, but I assure you that when it comes to a suaree or the eligibility of a gentleman, she is shrewd. I knew your status almost before I knew your name, she shrugged. She has five daughters to see well married. Her lips curled playfully. My mother does not like you.
Dossi's hand flew to his chest and his eyes questioned the truth of her statement.
I am not her favorite, but even her least favorite daughter cannot be slighted without reproach. Elizabeth crossed her arms and lifted one shoulder in a half shrug. Your fortune, as well as your willingness to relieve her of a daughter, not to mention your seeing to the reunion of my sister and Mr. Bingley will smooth any feathers you have ruffled.
However, my father may not be so easily swayed since I am his favorite.
Darcy, who was crossing the room to her, stopped a few steps from his destination. Are you accepting me?
Elizabeth simply could not help the grin that spread across her face. A joyful bubbling was growing in her chest. I am considering it. He inclined his head in acknowledgement. He dared not completely hope that his greatest desire was nearly fulfilled. She could still change her mind, or her father could refuse. This thought caused his brows to furrow and a frown to form on his lips for a moment before a smile replaced it. "I have a library, two actually, one in town and another at Pembley. They house thousands of books." Her eyes grew wide again, and her lips parted slightly. Thousands? He nodded. They're all at your disposal and your father's as well when he visits.
There may even be a book or two with which I might be willing to part. She shook her head and laughed. A fortune for my mother and a book for my father.
You, sir, are not without sense. He stood directly before her. What else must I do to convince you to accept me?
He placed his hands on her elbows and drew her a step closer to him.
All that I have is yours, body, mind, soul, and possessions.
Will you allow me to debate and read?
She asked. He nodded. With pleasure. You will not scull too often, she added. I will make mistakes and act foolishly.
I will attempt to be understanding, he assured her. She bit her lip and studied his face. Will you love me until my dying breath? Will you love me? He echoed her question back to her. She nodded her head. I think I will. Indeed, she felt she already might. If the heady feeling of elation at his devotion to her was any indication.
Will you marry me? Whether or not we are discovered as we are. He slid his hands up her arms to her shoulders and drew her even closer.
Darcy opened his mouth to continue speaking, but Elizabeth placed a finger on his lips. They were soft and warm, and for a moment she nearly forgot what she was going to say. She had never touched any man in such an intimate way.
Her cheeks flushed, and she pulled her finger away. I am not choosing you because I am forced to do so. I am choosing you because I wish to. Her heart fluttered at his smile and the look in his eyes.
Darcy cuped her face in his hands.
"Thank you," he murmured before he kissed her. The touch of her lips against his nearly undid him. He wrapped an arm around her and pulled her close, pressing her to him. Elizabeth did not resist. Instead, her arms found their way around his neck, and her fingers wo their way through his hair. So delicious was the sensation of him, that she did not hear the door to the room open.
Mr. Collins stopped, frozen at the door.
His mouth hung open, but silent, as if the words of greeting he had meant to share had been snatched from his throat.
Richard nudged the poor shocked fellow from behind, causing the person to take a stumbling step into the sitting room and freeing the rarely silent man's tongue.
Cousin Elizabeth, what are you doing to poor Mr. Darcy? Unhand him at once.
Mr. Collins's voice broke through the haze in Elizabeth's mind, and her hands released their hold on Darcy. She attempted to pull away from him, but Darcy merely smiled and held her tightly.
She is pleasing me excessively. He smiled down at her and dropped a kiss on her forehead before loosening his hold.
She has done me the great honor of accepting my proposal. He continued, "She has done what?" Mr. Collins, having found both the use of his tongue and his legs, had hurried across the room and stood next to Elizabeth so that he was facing Darcy. Darcy gave Mr. Collins only a cursory glance before returning his eyes to Elizabeth and smiling broadly as he replied, "She has agreed to be my wife.
Chapter 8."
Richard leaned against the door frame, watching the scene before him unfold. He would interrupt if necessary, but for now he was content to just observe.
Anne stood beside him and would have entered the room, but his extended arm blocking her path and a shake of his head forstalled her.
Mr. Collins shifted his gaze from Darcy to Elizabeth and then back to Darcy once more before turning disapproving eyes on Elizabeth. What have you done? The question was asked quietly, but to Elizabeth there was no mistaking Mr. Collins displeasure. She was about to tell him that she had done nothing, but he was not pausing to allow it.
Do you not know your place? He took Elizabeth by the elbow and attempted to draw her away from Darcy. Your father will have to be told, of course, but no one else need know. There is no need for a man such as Mr. Darcy to marry you. My mother has a sister in Edinburgh. You can go stay with her. He shook his head as if disgusted. Trapping a man in his home. You're as weward as your mother.
Darcy tightened his grip around Elizabeth's waist, pulling her towards him and away from Mr. Collins. Mr. Collins.
The coldness of his voice caused Elizabeth to shiver, and Darcy paused for a moment to look down at her and smile. She was not the object of his displeasure, and he did not wish for her to feel as if she was.
Miss Elizabeth has not trapped me. I do not offer to marry her unwillingly, or because of any imagined indiscretion. He waited for the flapping of Mr. Collins's lips to cease, and you would do well not to speak of her mother in such a fashion. He smiled again at Elizabeth's upturned face. It is entirely rude and excessively unbecoming for a man of your station.
Mr. Collins took a step towards Elizabeth, but a raised brow from Darcy halted him. Richard pushed off the doorframe. Things were about to get ugly if there was not some sort of intervention.
Darcy was wearing his nothing shall move this mountain expression, and Richard feared Collins was not bright enough to heed such a warning.
Richard gave his coat sleeves a tug to straighten them, and then cleared his throat, drawing attention to his presence. He nodded to Darcy and Elizabeth before addressing Mr. Collins.
"Was there a reason, sir, that you were seeking my cousin and yours?"
Mr. Collins looked blankly from Richard to Darcy and back again. Richard shook his head and sighed. How his aunt had managed to select this buffoon as her person was beyond him. I believe you mentioned tea when I met you in the hall. Mr. Collins blinked. Yes, yes, that is correct. Lady Catherine had asked me to tell cousin Elizabeth that her presence was required.
He turned to Elizabeth with a door expression on his face. Come along, cousin. One mustn't keep Lady Catherine waiting. Anne stepped around Richard. I will see that Miss Bennett finds the correct room.
But it is my duty, Mr. Collins began, but Anne interrupted him. You would deny me? Anne's voice was so full of indignation and sounded so much like her mothers that Richard had to cough to cover a laugh. He could tell by the slight upward tilt of her lips that she also found amusement in the current proceedings.
My mother would be distressed to hear such a thing. I am certain she would be much better pleased if you were to tell her that I requested the privilege of escorting our guest to tea, and you, knowing your place." Richard saw her lips twitch as she attempted to keep her features serious, thought it best to oblige me. "But my cousin," Mr. Collins looked at Elizabeth. "Is there something wrong with your cousin?" asked Anne, tipping her head and studying Elizabeth before turning wide, questioning eyes at Mr. Collins. "She looks well to me. My cousin, on the other hand, could use some work.
Richard could not help the laugh that escaped him at that comment. I shall see to our cousin, he said to Anne, "If you will see to Miss Bennett." He gave Mr. Collins a firm stare and tilted his head toward the door. "You will tell my aunt that we will join her shortly." He kept his intent gaze on the parson until the man decided it was best to do as instructed.
Miss Bennett, Anne extended a hand.
Reluctantly, Darcy released Elizabeth from his embrace, though his hand lingered on hers. "I will see that she is safe," Anne assured him. Darcy gave a small smile and nod in response, but he still seemed reluctant to let her go.
"Was he worried for her safety?" "The thought felt strange to Elizabeth. She could not help but compare such a response to that of her father, who would have gladly allowed Elizabeth to follow after Collins, for the sole purpose of seeing what might follow. Oh, her father would not allow her to fall into an untenable situation. She knew this for a certainty. After all, had he not allowed her to refuse Mr. Collins's offer of marriage, but he would also not watch with the intent to protect nearly as much as the hope of finding something over which to laugh later. Was that perhaps why her father had allowed Mr. Collins to present his suit at all. She placed her hand in Mr. Bur's and allowed herself to be led from the room. She had never truly considered this a fault in her father before now, and the realization was rather unsettling. She turned her head to look back to the sitting room door.
Mr. Darcy is a very good man, is he not?
Quite a bit better than she had ever imagined. Indeed, she was swiftly coming to the conclusion that there were few men who were superior to Mr. Darcian character. Oh, oh, certainly, without question, Anne agreed. He is not what I thought. I have been completely wrong about him. Elizabeth finally admitted aloud the thought which had been beginning to form in her mind from the moment Mr. Darcy entered the parsonage two days ago. How have you been wrong?
Anne asked as they descended the stairs.
I thought him arrogant.
He is proud, said Anne. but not improperly so. There is a pride of position, but not of one who lords that position over another solely for the sake of making them feel inferior.
Elizabeth stopped on a stair about halfway down the grand staircase, and turned to look back up from where they had come. Anne released Elizabeth's hand and leaned against the ballastrades across from her. "His countenance is so often grave when amongst strangers or those who make him feel ill at ease," she said.
Elizabeth nodded. He scrutinizes.
Anne laughed. That he does.
But he is wise and discerning. Is he not? Elizabeth turned questioning eyes towards Anne. There were still things that she did not know about the man to whom she had pledged her life. She once again wished for her sister Jane to be here to help her arrange her muddled thoughts.
I would say he is, but not always. He is not without fault. There is the matter of his sister. She said the last part quietly.
Elizabeth's brow furrowed as she thought about what she had learned of Georgiana's narrow escape from Wickham.
Mr. Darcy had readily admitted to having been duped by Mrs. Young, and to being less attentive than perhaps he should have been. He did not glance over it or deny any part he may have played in the affair. In fact, she had a distinct feeling that he felt his error far more heavily than he should.
Again, she was struck by the contrast between Mr. Darcy and her father. Her father would have found that the greatest part of fault in the story lay with the foolishness of the young lady in being so easily led by pretty words and a pleasing countenance. Did he not speak of her younger sisters in such a fashion? Were their follyies not his responsibility?
Should he not be correcting them and their mother? Yet he only found amusement. If he disapproved, he said very little. She shook her head before saying, "Mr. Darcy is not without fault, and he accepts that he is not." A small smile touched her lips as she once again realized just how fine a gentleman Mr. Darcy was.
Anne took a step down the staircase, and Elizabeth followed. "Was it only his pride that you had gotten wrong?"
Elizabeth shook her head. No, I had formed a great many incorrect notions about him, but they were all based on my thinking him arrogant. She paused for a moment on the second step from the bottom, while her mind traveled back up to the room with the piano and the man she had discovered there.
If he had not wounded my vanity, my vision of his character might have been more clear," she added. She had been so determined to not like him and find fault. Her sister, and even her own conscience had told her she might be wrong, but she had not listened. She shook her head at her own foolishness, as she descended the last two steps.
Indeed, that was the reason why she had not been able to decipher his character.
Her conscience would not allow it. Her doubts had suggested she might be judging unfairly.
But now there were no doubts to cloud her appraisal of the man. She felt as if a veil had been lifted.
So, you're happy to be tied to him?
Elizabeth's eyes grew wide and her brows rose as she realized that she was indeed happy to be tied to Mr. Darcy. She nodded as a smile spread across her face. She was happy, but it was more than that. Her soul felt at peace. There was no indecision, no wavering, not a morsel of regret. Marrying Mr. Darcy was right, and not just because she had been found with him in a compromising position.
Then I am happy that all has worked out as it should, said Anne with a smile as she led Elizabeth into her mother's sitting room.
Chapter nine.
Elizabeth was happy to see that Charlotte was also at Rosings. Mr. Collins was deep in whispered discussion with Lady Catherine as Elizabeth and Anne entered the room and took a seat near Mrs. Collins.
"What has happened?" Charlotte whispered. My husband was in quite a state when he entered and went directly to Lady Catherine and began whispering to her. Was there an issue with your practicing? You did practice, did you not? Charlotte cast a second wary glance toward her husband as she spoke in hush tones.
Elizabeth could not contain her smile. I am to marry, she said, keeping her voice low. Charlotte's eyes grew wide. Whom?
Her lips formed the word, but no sound accompanied it.
Oh, Charlotte," Elizabeth said, grasping one of her friends hands. "I have been so wrong, and you have been so right. He loves me, Charlotte. Just as you claimed."
Charlotte's eyes stayed wide and her mouth dropped open before forming a smile. "Mr. Darcy," she whispered.
Elizabeth nodded her head. "But you're smiling. I thought you did not like him." Elizabeth touched her lips with the tips of her fingers. "It is the strangest thing."
Charlotte caught a small laugh before it could draw her husband's attention. You are happy again? Elizabeth nodded. It is the strangest thing, she repeated. But my husband is not happy, Charlotte added with a raised brow. They were discovered together in the room with the piano, Anne added the hushed explanation.
Kissing.
Charlotte's eyes were again wide and weary as she looked from Elizabeth to her husband.
Mr. Darcy was not fully dressed, Anne added.
Elizabeth's mouth dropped open at Anne's comment. He was not, Elizabeth looked toward Lady Catherine and then back to Charlotte and added undressed in as low a whisper as she could manage. At least not then.
Charlotte was about to ask for a further explanation of the comment, but Lady Catherine chose that moment to intervene.
Miss Bennett.
Yes, my lady, Elizabeth replied while squeezing Charlotte's hand. She could tell by the way Lady Catherine's chin was raised and how she peered down her nose at Elizabeth that she was not pleased.
A troubling account has reached me. It seems that you did not use your full practice time to improve your skills at the piano. Was the instrument not to your liking?
Elizabeth blinked. This was not the accusation she had anticipated, and from the opening and closing of Mr. Collins's mouth, it was not the accusation he had expected either.
No, my lady, I did not use the full time to practice, she replied. There were distractions.
Mr. Collins could not contain himself any longer and harumped softly.
Was one of these distractions my nephew?
Lady Catherine plucked at the lace at her wrist. Yes, my lady. Mr. Darcy was one distraction. Elizabeth could feel her face growing warm.
Lady Catherine's eyes stayed lowered as she seemed intent on straightening that bit of lace. "Did you seduce him?"
Elizabeth gasped.
Lady Catherine's lips twitched briefly before she raised her gaze to take in the look of shock on Elizabeth's face.
"No, my lady, I did not." Lady Catherine's left shoulder rose and fell.
"Mr. Collins fears you did." Elizabeth shook her head. "I did not."
Lady Catherine's smile was soft. She could see that Elizabeth was on the verge of tears at having been accused of such an unsemly thing. It was a credit to the lady's honor to be so shaken by such claims. "Then perhaps you can tell me how you came to be embracing my nephew when Mr. Collins entered the locked music room." "Again?" Elizabeth gasped. "I I did not lock the door," she stammered.
Lady Catherine merely smiled and waited, while Mr. Collins barely contained a comment.
Elizabeth swallowed before launching into her explanation. I was on my way to practice and Colonel Fitz William, who had offered to escort me to the correct room, had to tend to some matter of business.
He told me that the room I sought was three doors up on the left from where we stood. So that is where I went. I entered and closed the door. Elizabeth paused and her brow furrowed. The door had not been locked when she entered, and yet when she had turned to leave moments later, it was. It was not the correct room, but I could not leave. She shook her head. It is most odd. A door cannot lock itself, can it?
Lady Catherine shrugged. None at Rosings do. Then how was it locked after I entered if I did not lock it? She thought back to when she closed the door. It had made two latching sounds.
She had not thought much of it at the time, but now it struck her as not right. I could not say, said Lady Catherine, plucking at the lace on her other sleeve. You say you were in the wrong room, but Mr. Collins discovered you in the correct room. How did that come to be? There is a door that connects Mr. Darcy's room to the sitting room between his room and the one Miss Darcy uses when she visits, said Elizabeth. That room's door was also locked. her head tipped as she considered that fact. I was so mortified at having seen Mr. Darcy in his dressing gown and having spoken to him so harshly that I did not stop to consider how I was to enter that room to practice if the door was locked.
Mr. Darcy was in his dressing gown, Mr. Collins asked in surprise.
Elizabeth nodded. I believe he had just exited his bath. His hair was wet.
Though she was sharing what had happened, her mind was not fully thinking about what she was saying. It was still trying to reason away the locked doors. She gasped almost in unison with Charlotte, who had been shocked by Elizabeth's revelation about Mr. Darcy and his bath. "Someone locked it," Elizabeth exclaimed. "Someone wished for me to be locked in that room with Mr. Darcy." She turned toward Anne.
"Do you know who?" she asked. "I do," said Darcy entering the room.
It is good to see you properly dressed, said Lady Catherine. Miss Elizabeth was just telling me how you were in a robe when she entered your bedroom, and Mr. Collins assures me that you were not wearing boots or a coat when he discovered you and Miss Elizabeth in a most compromising position.
Darcy tugged Richard forward and then gave him a shove toward a chair. "My cousin would like to say something to you," he said, turning to Elizabeth.
Richard sank into the chair that Darcy had indicated he take. Darcy had not been pleased to find out the truth of what had happened. He had not raised more than his voice at Richard, but he had made certain that Richard knew there would be a price to pay if he did not apologize to Elizabeth for his part in the scheme. Richard swallowed and bowed his head slightly. I am to apologize for directing you to the wrong room.
And Darcy prodded. Richard grimaced and locking the door. Elizabeth's lips parted in surprise, and Mr. Collins sputtered something unintelligible.
"I will not, however, apologize for the results." Richard leaned back, folded his arms across his chest, and gave Darcy a defiant glare.
"She cannot marry him," sputtered Mr. Collins. "This must be stopped." "Why?"
asked Lady Catherine. "Why?" repeated Mr. Collins. "Why?" he repeated a second time. He flapped his arm in Elizabeth's direction. "She's beneath him. Her connections are not so great as his.
I do not see why that signifies, said Lady Catherine. All I have learned of Miss Bennett is satisfactory to me. Her father is a gentleman with an estate that has been in the family's possession for three generations. She's a lady of exceptional character. She's not a diamond of the first waters, but she's pretty. Her mind, I understand, is lively, and though she is without refinement in her accomplishments, she's not devoid of them. But what of Mr. Boore? Mr. Collins protested.
Lady Catherine blinked and looked at Anne and then back to Mr. Collins. What of my daughter?
Is she not betrothed to Mr. Darcy? Darcy chuckled. I have never offered nor do I intend to make an offer. A smile spread across Lady Catherine's face. And I would have never accepted his offer if he made it. You would not have? Darcy asked in surprise. I thought you wished it. Lady Catherine rose from her chair.
I let you think that. It made it easier to search for the right lady. If you thought I would be displeased should you tell me that you were not marrying Anne?
She nodded her thanks for the tea tray that had been set up and began to pour.
Did I not do a good job of finding a lady for you? She asked as she lifted a cup of tea for Anne to pass to one of their guests.
Darcy's mouth hung open. Anne is too delicate for a northern climate, said Lady Catherine as she poured another cup of tea. and I really could not bear to have her so far from me. She handed the cup to Anne. And what would poor Mr. Abney do if you stole Anne away from Kent? He would never marry, and that would be a shame to have his estate untouched by a feminine hand.
Darcy shook his head. Mr. Abney. Lady Catherine nodded. He has made his overtures. Anne blushed and smiled as she took a third cup from her mother.
When I heard about Miss Bennett's refusal of Mr. Collins and her seeming dislike of you. Lady Catherine continued, "I knew she was the one."
Darcy's brow furrowed, and he looked at his aunt and then Elizabeth, who was listening intently, but looking as beused as he felt. "You chose Miss Bennett because she did not like me."
Lady Catherine smiled and shook her head. "No, I chose her because she was intelligent and given to debate. She did not dislike you."
Darcy opened his mouth and then clamped it shut again. his aunt was making very little sense. "You were rude," said Lady Catherine, "and any lady worth her salt and able to take her place in this family, would not let such a thing pass without displeasure." She shook her head gently and chuckled. "Miss Bennett did not shun you. She engaged in a battle of wits, proving her value to you, and you were enchanted."
"But she did not like me." "No, I did not," said Elizabeth.
Lady Catherine smiled. It was a misunderstanding.
That is all it was. She handed Darcy a cup of tea and patted his cheek. How could anyone dislike you once they got to know you? She returned to pour her own cup of tea. That is why you had to be forced to spend time together, so that Miss Bennett could come to know and love you as Anne, Richard, and I do. She turned to Mr. Collins. I am afraid you will have to accept the fact that you are instrumental in bringing such joy to my family.
Mr. Collins nodded mutely and slumped into a chair, clearly not feeling quite the thing.
Chapter 10.
Mr. Collins remained melancholy for a full 3 days, only cheering up enough to do a credible job of playing the part of a carefree person as required for services. On the third day, after he had finished his duties at the church, he seemed to have resolved whatever matter was causing him discomfort, and unfortunately for Elizabeth found his tongue. Many were the comments about propriety, and the recommendations of books that should and should not be read by ladies who aspired to such lofty positions as the niece of an earl. He could not stress to her just how important it was that she do her best to secure the Bennett family name as one worthy of consideration for positions of honor.
and your sisters," he said, as the party from the parsonage walked to Rosings to spend the evening with Lady Catherine.
They could benefit from some instruction. It is not outside the realm of possibility that your mother would insist upon at least one of them attending a school, if it meant the possibility of an excellent match. Why, with the names of Fitz William and Darcy attached to her relations, she would be worthy of perhaps a baronet's notice, even without a fortune to her name.
connections, you see, are quite valuable.
Mr. Collins, Charlotte said in a low voice, it is not for us to arrange the disposal of all Elizabeth's sisters. He harumped, her father has done a poor job of it thus far. He thinks them capable of selecting their own match, yet he does not present them in a greater society than Meritan. A shabby job he has done, he muttered. A right shabby job.
Mr. Collins, Charlotte's voice remained soft, but had taken on an edge. I begin to think that you are unhappily married.
This comment brought an abrupt stop to the progress of the group. Elizabeth and Mariah drew back a short distance to give a perceived amount of privacy to the couple.
My dear, said Mr. Collins, Mr. Bennett's best decision was to allow his daughter to refuse me. He patted his wife's hand and drew her a step closer to him. You are my blessing. He lifted her hand and gave it a kiss. Elizabeth's mouth dropped open slightly as she saw her friend duck her head and blush. "Very well, you're forgiven for your foul mood," said Charlotte. "Do not fear about your cousins getting married. I am certain that they will all eventually find a home. They're far too pretty to be left sitting on the shelf, and do not forget that having friends with such connections will do my sister no harm."
"Ah, you're wise," Mr. Collins muttered as he resumed walking. Yes, yes, I had thought this arrangement to be a potential disaster, but perhaps I have been seeing it from the wrong perspective. It is perhaps the benevolence of the Lord Almighty being poured out on his servant.
Indeed, it might be, said Charlotte. The remainder of the walk was made in silence, as Mr. Collins waxed eloquent on the many unusual workings of Providence, in setting his good and proper plans into action. They had nearly reached the steps at Rosings when he was finally reaching the end of his circle through the many acts of God in ordering and directing his children.
And we must remember that it was a harlot who was used to shelter Joshua and Caleb, and even the mighty King David stumbled. He nodded in agreement with himself as he continued the thought. Therefore, it is not unthinkable that he should also use a wayward cousin to bring great blessing to our family.
Mr. Collins. Charlotte removed her hand from his arm. I will not listen to you speak of Elizabeth or Mr. Darcy in such a fashion. As has been explained previously, Elizabeth was led astray by Colonel Fitz William and locked. No, trapped in that room with Mr. Darcy. She did not plot to capture him. She lowered her voice, and there was no seduction.
Mr. Collins shrugged, "Perhaps, but it was still highly improper for her to be kissing him, and in such a fashion."
"Very well, Mr. Collins, I will allow that kissing might not have been proper.
However, I do think I remember someone kissing me when I had agreed to marry him, and I dare say hypocrisy is not becoming." Mr. Collins's eyes grew wide, and his face became quite red. "I shall remember that," he muttered. Then turning to Elizabeth, he added, "You are forgiven your folly." Before Elizabeth could respond, he was up the steps and knocking at the door. Charlotte stepped closer to Elizabeth and Mariah. All will be well now. He will write his pleasure at your good fortune to your father. She flicked her brows up quickly, without any mention of impropriy.
One must always know how to guide her husband if he seems to be going astray.
She winked and turned to follow her husband into rosings.
And all was well, or as well as one might expect, with a man such as Mr. Collins. It appeared, from the way he sought out Mr. Darcy to praise him that evening, and the flattering comments he made about Elizabeth, that both she and Mr. Darcy had been restored in his good opinion. However, the colonel did not fare so well. He was watched with suspicion.
That night, upon returning to the parsonage, Mr. Collins sat down and wrote a most satisfactory letter to Mr. Bennett declaring the joyful news that Elizabeth's father should expect a call from a particular gentleman for a very specific purpose.
It was therefore a rather peaceful week in Kent, both at the parsonage and rosings that followed the passing of Easter. Elizabeth found a book of sermons near her place in the breakfast room each morning, open to what Mr. Collins thought to be an appropriate lesson on some matter of female duty.
This morning was no different. Elizabeth smiled and nodded to her cousin and allowed her eyes to skim over the contents of the lesson enough to satisfy Mr. Collins so that he felt secure in leaving her to complete the task on her own. She made certain to read a few passages so that when questioned later she might be able to respond with some semblance of knowledge on the matter.
He wishes for you to do well, Charlotte assured her. being a wife, and if the Lord sees fit, a mother is not a small task, though having your own home is such a pleasant thing."
Elizabeth smiled as Charlotte sighed and sank back in her chair. "Having a modest home of her own had always been Charlotte's aim in life, and Elizabeth was happy to see her friend so well settled."
"I was right about him, was I not."
Charlotte's eyes twinkled over the rim of her cup as she took a sip of tea. "He was in love with you." Elizabeth's cheeks grew warm. Mr. Darcy being in love with her was still a novel idea, but it was one that was quickly settling into her reality and becoming a piece of her.
"When does he ride to Longorn to speak to your father?" Charlotte placed her cup on the table, broke off a piece of a roll, and spread it with butter.
"Tomorrow, if the weather holds," Elizabeth replied, closing the book of sermons and turning her attention to her own breakfast. A strange uneasiness settled in around her. It had been happening each time she spoke about Mr. Darcy's trip to call on her father. She took a small sip of her tea. She was nervous about her father's reception of the request. But this unsettled feeling seemed to be an addition to that flutter of nerves.
I wonder if perhaps I should travel with him, she said. My father will wonder at my reversal of opinion. He may wish to speak with me before he grants his approval.
Charlotte's brows flicked upward, and she smiled knowingly. A letter should suffice.
Elizabeth shook her head in protest. He may have questions that I have not thought to answer. You not think of the answers to your father's questions before he asked them? Charlotte tked and shook her head. Not likely, my dear.
Elizabeth knew this to be true. She was quite good at knowing just how her father would think about something. Yet writing a letter did not ease her spirit the way the idea of traveling with Mr. Darcy did.
I have never accepted a proposal of marriage before, so I cannot predict what he will wish to know, she protested weakly. Charlotte shrugged and sighed.
Go with him if you must, but do be honest about your reasons. She stood and came round the table to give the top of Elizabeth's head a kiss. You wish to go with him because you do not wish to be parted from him. Elizabeth gasped and would have retorted that what Charlotte said was untrue, except for two facts.
One, Charlotte had already left the room, and two, Elizabeth's heart spoke to her of her friend's wisdom.
Elizabeth was still thinking about Charlotte's comment about not wishing to be parted from Mr. Darcy when she went to fetch her hat for her walk in the grove. She could not come to an acceptable reason for her wish to be with him. She knew she enjoyed his presence. However, she also enjoyed the presence of Colonel Fitz William. Yet when she considered Colonel Fitz Williams departure from Kent, she felt no great disappointment. It was the strangest thing. Elizabeth stopped midthought and mid descent of the stairs as a familiar voice was heard in the sitting room. Her father was here.
I do apologize for arriving without warning.
It is no imposition, Mr. Bennett, Elizabeth heard Charlotte assuring him.
My wife would have me search out the full extent of the matter about which your husband wrote," her father said. "I must admit that it has taken us by surprise."
Elizabeth placed her bonnet on the table in the foyer, and instead of going outside, turned into the sitting room.
"Papa!"
A smile of delight lit Mr. Bennett's eyes as he turned to greet her. "Ah, my Lizzy, you are a welcome sight."
Elizabeth gave him a hug and took a seat near Charlotte. What brings you to Kent?
All is well at Longorn, I hope. Mama and my sisters are all well.
As well as can be expected after the news I received from Mr. Collins. Her father's head tipped, and his brows rose in question. Your mother insisted that I come see you. She will not be settled until she knows all, and I shall have no peace until she is settled."
He chuckled and crossed his ankles as he leaned back and peered at Elizabeth, who was doing her best to look calm despite the rapid rhythm of her heart. Am I to understand that you have grown fond enough of Mr. Darcy to accept an offer of marriage?
Elizabeth nodded slowly. I have. Mr. Bennett blinked. Well, well, well. So it is, as Sir William suspected, the gentleman was fascinated by you.
Elizabeth's cheeks grew warm. He is wealthy. You will have no fear of want."
He paused. "But wealth has never been your desire."
It was true, though Elizabeth wished for a home with ample income to be comfortable, she had never sought riches in a marriage partner. She had a vowed that she would not marry unless it was to a man whom she could respect, and who would respect her in turn, nor would she be induced into matrimony without the deepest of affection. "It is still not my desire," she admitted.
Mr. Bennett's brows rose, and he clasped his hands in front of his stomach. "Then my daughter, you must explain yourself to me."
Elizabeth's brows furrowed. How was she supposed to explain something that she herself did not fully comprehend?"
"Surely, my Lizzy, there must be a reason for your reversal of opinion of the man." "Do you not still find him proud?" her father asked, as he carefully watched her face. "Not improperly, so said Elizabeth. I admit that I did find him to be arrogant," she sighed. "His words at the assembly hurt me, and I allowed them to color my judgment of him." Mr. Bennett nodded.
"That is not unusual." "But it is not right," protested Elizabeth. "I listened to stories about Mr. Darcy, and delighted to hear him spoken of in unflattering ways. Those stories by a man who should not be trusted." She looked pointedly at her father. "Those stories fed my dislike. They satisfied me not because I found them credible.
For I did not stop to consider their veracity. They satisfied me because they agreed with my judgment based on a few hurtful comments. I did not bother to look for anything but fault in Mr. Darcy's character. My wounded pride would not allow me to see anything different from what I wish to see.
Mr. Bennett's lips curled in amusement as his daughter's voice became stronger and more forceful in her defense of her opinions being wrong.
Elizabeth stood and paced the floor behind the sofa on which she had been sitting. The things that were told to me by Mr. Wickham were halftruths at best.
He has not been illreated by Mr. Darcy.
In fact, it is Mr. Darcy who has suffered at the schemes of Mr. Wickham.
Mr. Bennett's brows rose. Indeed, I cannot tell you all, for I have promised I would not. She stopped and mentally shuffled through what she now knew of Wickcham, searching for something to tell her father that would not violate her promise, but would allow her father to see Wickham for what he was. Do you remember how Mr. Wickham claimed that Mr. Darcy refused to give him a living?
Mr. Bennet nodded. It was a request of Mr. Darcy's father to bestow it, was it not? It was. Elizabeth came around the sofa and sat on the edge of it, facing her father. It was not Mr. Darcy who refused, but rather Mr. Wickham. He did not wish to take orders, and so Mr. Darcy paid Mr. Wickham a sizable sum in lie of the living. It was not until Mr. Wickham had wasted all the money, and had come back hoping to claim the living that Mr. Darcy refused to give it to him. She leaned forward towards her father. £3,000 along with an additional,000 given to Mr. Wickham by Mr. Darcy's father, was gone within 3 years. £4,000.
She shook her head. The fact that so much had been wasted on frivolous living still shocked her. So much? Mr. Bennett could not hide his surprise. Elizabeth nodded. There is more, but I cannot speak of it. She sighed. Suffice it to say that you would do well to keep my sisters away from him.
Mr. Bennett's brows rose even higher, and his eyes grew wider. Indeed.
Elizabeth nodded. Once I knew of the foolishness of my trusting Mr. Wickham.
I had to reconsider my assessment of Mr. Darcy," she sighed, and her lips curled into a small smile. "I was so utterly wrong about him, papa. He is not what we thought. He is a caring brother, cousin, nephew, and friend. He is wise, but not without fault, which he will readily admit. When he hes he makes amends, her head tilted as she thought. He is of noble character, papa, and he promises not to scold too often when I make mistakes and wishes for me to read and debate. He does not find my wit to be a detriment.
Her smile grew. And papa. She clasped his hands. He has thousands of books in his libraries. She tucked her lower lip between her teeth. Thousands. Mr. Bennett blinked at the thought.
Yes, papa, and all at our disposal.
It was a moment before Mr. Bennett's brows drew together, and his eyes twinkled with delight. Do you mean to say that you would marry him for his libraries?
She shook her head and laughed. No, papa, but Mr. Darcy thought it might help you grant your blessing. Mr. Bennett chuckled. Does he respect you?
Elizabeth nodded. Does he love you? Mr. Bennett's eyes grew serious. Elizabeth nodded again. most ardently.
Mr. Bennett sighed. I have heard in your speech that you respect him. Elizabeth once again nodded slowly very much.
Do you love him? Elizabeth's brows drew together, and her shoulders lifted and lowered as she shook her head. I do not know, though I think that I might.
Mr. Bennett grasped her hands firmly. My daughter, if I were to refuse you this request, and Mr. Darcy were to return to Darbisha, never to return, what would you do? Elizabeth shook her head in disbelief. Her mouth opened and she closed it as if she were lost for words.
Her heart achd and her chest constricted, making it hard to breathe.
Mr. Bennett released her hands and searched for his handkerchief so that she could dry her tears. "Would you wish to follow him?" he asked softly. She nodded.
Mr. Mr. Bennett's smile was soft, as were his words. You love him. I am satisfied. He blinked against his own unshed tears, and then with a sigh he clapped his hands on the arms of his chair and pushed to his feet. Now, where might I find the man who had the audacity to steal my Lizzy's heart so that I might give him my permission to continue to care for it.
Chapter 11.
Mr. Bennett found his quarry in the grove, pacing beneath a large tree and swatting at the grass with his walking stick. Once Darcy got over his shock at coming face to face with Elizabeth's father so unexpectedly, he did an admirable job in presenting his request.
Mr. Bennett wished to discomfort the man, but as he watched Darcy ring the life from his hat, he relented and readily gave his permission.
I will require some time to come to terms with losing my daughter, and my wife will wish to make her good fortune known far and wide. Mr. Bennett watched the tip of his walking stick as he twirled it in a circle. A month should suffice, although I would wish for longer, it is doubtful that you, Lizzy, or I could tolerate Mrs. Bennett's raptures for any longer than a month. He cradled his stick in his arms, much as he did his rifle when out on a hunt.
Will Mr. Bingley be returning to Netherfield. Or do you require accommodations at Longorn?
Darcy thought there was a bit of an accusatory tone to Mr. Bennett's question. It seemed that it was not only Elizabeth who held him responsible for Bingley's departure. I am uncertain, he replied, but I believe he may indeed return. The outcome of his calling at the Gardeners will be the deciding factor.
Mr. Bennett's brows rose. He has gone to call at the gardeners. I had not heard such. Jane is circumspect, but I would think that she would have mentioned seeing a friend such as Mr. Bingley in one of her letters.
He has only just received notice of Miss Bennett being in town, said Darcy. I have not had a reply, nor has Miss Elizabeth had word from her sister, so I am uncertain if the call has taken place or what the results of the call have been. He turned to Mr. Bennett. Had I known that Miss Bennett was in town, or that she had called on Bingley's sisters, I would have informed Mr. Bingley of her presence much sooner.
However, I only just discovered this information when I arrived in Kent.
Mr. Bennett's lips puckered and relaxed as his brows drew together in question.
Darcy shifted uneasily under the man's scrutiny. When we left Netherfield, "I thought Miss Bennett indifferent, and cautioned my friend against forming too deep an attachment." He sighed. "Miss Elizabeth assures me I was wrong," he grimaced. and from the melancholy I have observed in my friend my warning came too late as it was.
One corner of Mr. Bennett's mouth tipped upwards in a half smile. So my wife's raptures might not be confined only to Elizabeth's conquest of a wealthy gentleman.
Darcy shook his head and chuckled slightly. Mrs. Bennett may indeed be doubly delighted, but I cannot guarantee it. Very good. Very good indeed. Mr. Bennett's smile grew wide. I must request one more thing of you for my wife's sake. Whatever you wish, said Darcy. Mr. Bennett smirked. I could be requesting something very nearly impossible.
Whatever you ask, if it is in my power to provide it, I will, Darcy assured him.
Mr. Bennett's smile softened, and Darcy was surprised to see understanding in the gentleman's eyes. "You love my Lizzy dearly, do you not?"
Darcy felt his ears and cheeks grow warm. He had admitted his love for Elizabeth to Elizabeth and even to his aunt and cousins without much uneasiness, but admitting it to her father was somewhat more disquing. "More than life itself, sir," he answered softly. "Mr. Bennett swallowed and blinked against the tears that wished to fall. It was all for which he had wished for his Lizzy, to be loved completely.
For some of us, such a thing is not easily admitted," he said as he looked behind him down the path he had taken from the parsonage. "She is special to me, in a way her sisters are not, so it does my heart good to hear that she will be loved as she deserves. It is still not easy to part with her, of course."
"I shall likely feel the same," Darcy said, "when I have to part with my sister."
Mr. Bennett nodded slowly. "You wish for their happiness, you know." I do, Darcy agreed.
Mr. Bennett stood silently for a moment longer before turning around and continuing on his walk with Mr. Darcy.
To my request, he began, my wife would be greatly pleased if you were to marry by special license.
This request was speedily agreed to, and Mr. Bennett was petitioned that after her time in Kent was up, Elizabeth be allowed to stay longer in town than first planned. There was a need to introduce Elizabeth, not only to his sister, but also to his uncle, Lord Matlock.
As Mr. Bennett saw it, it was wise for both Darcy and Elizabeth to know if their marriage would meet with appribation or displeasure, while they were still preparing for life as a married couple. And so he agreed. He would stop at the gardeners on his return to Longorn and inform them of the change and the reason. And so it transpired that after Darcy's time in Kent was at an end, he returned to London to share the news of his betroal with his sister and his uncle. Shortly thereafter, Elizabeth joined him in town for a grand dinner party in her honor.
So grand was this party, and so happy the occasion that it necessitated the presence of Lady Catherine and Anne. The gardeners were also invited, as were Mr. Bingley and Jane. Fortunately, the week prior to this suare, indeed before the invitations had arrived, the Hursts, with Caroline in tow, had removed to a small estate in the country to visit a friend with a cousin of marriageable age and fortune.
Therefore, it was a companionable group that met that evening at Darcy House.
The dining room was set with its finest, and not a surface that could hold a shine, was dim. All was to be presented at its best for the new mistress.
What do you think of Darcy House? Darcy asked Elizabeth as they slipped out the door to the terrace. It is very grand.
Elizabeth turned to look at the house from the bottom of the garden steps. It is beautiful. She smiled and chuckled. I fear I will not do it justice, for I'm merely tolerable, and it is so handsome.
She turned laughing eyes toward Darcy.
Over the days they had spent at Rosings, they had fallen into an easy friendship.
It had started that afternoon in the music room when the blinders of prejudice had been removed, and it had continued through each walk in the groves, ride in the countryside, and afternoon and evening spent in each other's company.
Elizabeth had found Darcy to be a person with whom she could share a great camaraderie. They had discussed a great number of topics, from preferences of seasons and plants, to books and politics, to family and dreams, and wishes for the future. Not every topic had been delved into with any degree of depth as to think it thoroughly canvased, but it had been touched in such a way as to assure the pair that they were indeed companionably matched.
That is not to say, of course, that either one or the other would not on some point or another be unwilling to shift their opinion, but on the important matters of life and love, they were in almost unanimous agreement.
Darcy shook his head and taking her hand led her down a path away from the room filled with people and the few who were enjoying the coolness of the evening on the terrace. "Will you ever forget those words?" he asked. "It is unlikely," she said with a laugh. "They are untrue, you know," he pulled her close to his side.
"You're definitely handsome enough to tempt me." He leaned closer to her ear and added in a whisper, "By reason." It was a statement that he had proven with ardent kisses at least once per day while at Rosings.
Elizabeth blushed and ducked her head.
She was still not entirely at ease with this new complimentary Mr. Darcy.
Parrying and dodging quips, refuting arguments, and challenging ideas were Elizabeth's natural bent when it came to engaging others in conversation.
Having to speak of one's inner desires and feelings was more challenging, but it was something to which she was slowly growing accustomed. For all of her life, there had only been one person with whom she shared such thoughts. Jane. But now that role would be filled, as it had been during the last portion of her stay in Kent, by Mr. Darcy, her husband. That word, husband, made her stomach flop, and a skitter of delight race up her spine. "Have I silenced you?" there was laughter in Darcy's tone. I am afraid you have," said Elizabeth, glancing up at him and giving him a small smile.
"Husband," she said the word once more in her mind, and the excited delight of a moment ago slid into a welcome, comforting feeling that wrapped around her heart tightly. How she had ever doubted that it was something other than love for the man beside her, that longed for his presence and good opinion. She was unsure, it was stubbornness, she supposed, or naivity, or just plain fear of the hit here for unfamiliar.
She had never been in love. It was not something which had been explained in books or described with adequacy by any friend or relation. She credited this to the fact that love was so individual. To Jane it was a happiness of heart. To Aunt Gardner it was a comfortable companion. To Charlotte it was security for her future. To Elizabeth it was all these things but more. Something far deeper than those explanations had ever suggested. It was a mingling of one heart and soul with another, mixed and twisted in such a way that the two would never be separated.
Darcy watched her tilt her head, knowing she was thinking of a reply, and therefore waited patiently in silence.
Do you remember, Elizabeth began, how you told me the first evening we were in company at Rosings, when I was playing the piano and I was teasing you about your behavior in Hertfordshire, that you do not have the ability to speak as easily to people as others do. Darcy nodded. I do. Elizabeth drew a breath, a deep chest expanding breath, and then released it slowly. She knew it must be done. She must speak of her heart to him, no matter how strange it might feel.
In 3 days time they would leave London and its relative peace for the loudness of Longorn. She was uncertain if her mother would allow space for Elizabeth to draw breath, let alone contemplate and ruminate on something so important as love.
We will find time for walks in Hertfordshire. Will we not? She could not bear the idea of quiet moments such as this being entirely removed from her.
There was nothing so soothing as a stroll at Mr. Darcy's side. I will insist upon it. Darcy smiled down at her. I cannot survive without some degree of solitude. It is necessary for my well-being, I assure you.
Good, said Elizabeth, as a small weight lifted from her. You know how dearly I love a solitary walk. I do.
Again, she drew a breath, though not quite as great as the last one. I do not know where to begin, she said at last.
So much has changed in such a short time. She peeked up and saw him nod his agreement. Before you left Rosings, I thought I might be caught up in the newness of our situation. I thought that I craved your presence because you were.
She paused as if unsure of what she was about to say.
I was not your cousin, he supplied. Her smile at his comment caused her eyes to sparkle and his heart to flutter. You're so beautiful, he whispered. She ducked her head again, but her smile did not diminish. Yes, you are sensible, unlike my cousin. He chuckled. I shall remind you of that when you're put out with me.
She nudged him with her shoulder as I was saying. I thought I craved your presence because you were sensible. I thought I enjoyed your company because you had become a friend. She peeked up at him again. And you have become a friend, but it is more.
She stopped walking and turned to face him. She knew she must look at him while she said the words that had echoed in her mind and heart since the day her father gave her permission to marry the man in front of her. She would see his eyes as she said those words that she had questioned and contemplated. She would watch his face when she finally admitted those words that had befuddled her and had slowly drawn her into accepting their truth. "Rosings shall always have a dear place in my heart," she said, for it is where I discovered you first, in a locked bedroom. She could not resist the urge to lift a teasing brow, and he chuckled. Somehow that low rumbling sound made it easier for her to continue. And then, in my heart, I love you. Her lips curled into a smile, and her eyes glistened with happy tears. Most ardently, she added, "And I will continue to love you with my dying breath."
Darcy's lips parted and then slid into the most endearing smile Elizabeth had ever seen, for it not only curved his mouth, but shone on his face and beamed from his eyes. It was joy, pure joy. You love me, she nodded. I do. I do not know how it happened, she admitted, or precisely when, but I love you.
Darcy gave no thought to the people who might come upon him and Elizabeth as they stood in the garden. Nor did he think about those who might be watching from the house. He did not even consider the teasing that would come from Richard, about the poor example he was setting for Georgiana. He only knew that Elizabeth loved him and that such a declaration demanded he take her in his arms, which he did.
Elizabeth wrapped her arms around his neck and wo her fingers through his hair as she returned his kiss. This This was where she wished to remain here with this man who loved her completely and whom she knew would always hold her heart.
Epilogue.
Darcy stepped down from the carriage and extended his hand to help his wife a light before tending to his son. No, no, I will take him, Richard said as he tossed the reinss of his horse to a groom and hurried toward the Darcy's carriage to scoop up his namesake before the child's father could claim him.
2-year-old Alexander Darcy, Alexander was Richard's middle name, squealled with delight as his uncle swept him into the air and placed him on his shoulder.
"Return him in an hour," said Elizabeth.
"He will be tired and hungry and not at all pleasant if you keep him out longer than that."
Ah, but we will not be hungry, will we, Alex? Uncle Richard will find you a biscuit.
An hour. Elizabeth's tone was firm.
Richard was an excellent uncle when he was not being indulgent. She leaned on Darcy's arm and whispered, "How do you suppose he will react when we tell him that he is to be an uncle a second time?" She placed her hand on her abdomen that was only now beginning to feel full and slightly rounded.
Darcy chuckled, delighted. He has claimed that he wishes to see every room in Pembley filled. It was true, Richard had taken to the idea of being an uncle quickly, and with the same fervor with which he approached most tusks, he promised that he would teach the child to ride and shoot, and he would see him well educated at Darcy's expense.
Then he had best find himself a wife and get on with the filling of the rooms.
He's not getting any younger, Elizabeth said with a laugh. We will not be filling them all. Darcy waggled his brows and smiled at his wife. No, we will not. We must save some room for my father, mother, and sisters when they visit. And visit they would often as they already had. Darcy was becoming accustomed to the commotion Elizabeth's mother created on each and every visit, and he welcomed the times he could spend tucked away in the library with her father, for he had come to realize that though the man lacked exertion, he did not lack intellect. They had spent many a pleasurable hour in discussions of various books or locked in a strategic battle on a chessboard.
Geiana had been delighted to have ladies of about her age, with whom to discuss all the topics that young ladies discuss behind bedroom doors, while wearing robes and slippers, and sipping tea, as a candle burned low and hissed.
Elizabeth had been terrified to allow her sisters to spend unsupervised time with Georgiana. Georgiana was all that was proper. She was young, but she was calm and reserved, where Elizabeth's younger sisters were excitable and outgoing. However, Elizabeth had not taken into account the effect that £30,000 and aunts who were ladies of the first circles with connections to titles could have on impressionable young ladies who wish to snare eligible husbands and improve their lots in life.
Apparently, with the correct incentive, even Lydia could be found learning to play the piano while Kitty sang and Mary painted. It was remarkable really how the quality of the society in which her sisters now found themselves had elevated their own expectations of their behavior.
Darcy waited as Elizabeth removed her hat and police. Are you ready?
There was always an interview of sorts to endure whenever the Darces arrived at Rosings. Lady Catherine would wish to know about their trip as well as any news about Georgiana and the Bennett girls. Just as she did when she traveled to Pembley or visited with Darcy in London, Lady Catherine would also demand that Alexander stand before her for inspection, upon the completion of which there was always some small treat to be had. However, today that inspection would have to wait until Uncle Richard had had his playtime.
I am, Elizabeth replied. We should not keep her waiting.
When it came to Darcy's family, Elizabeth had found her footing quickly.
Richard was a teasing elder brother.
Georgiana was a loving sister. Lord and Lady Matlock were welcoming, as was their son, the Vic Count, and his wife.
And then there were Lady Catherine and Anne. Anne was a faithful correspondent, informing Elizabeth of all that was newsworthy in Kent. Anne's mother was a doting great aunt, and regarded Elizabeth more as a daughter than a niece.
She had even taken it upon herself to introduce Elizabeth and Jane to London society.
That was the only place where Elizabeth's transition into her new life had been truly daunting. Lady Catherine had not been in society for many years, and so her connections were not what they once were. There were frequent arguments between Lady Catherine and her brother, Lord Matlock, about what engagements were truly important for the new Mrs. Darcy and Mrs. Bingley to attend. Whether it was because Lord Matlock knew more about society than Lady Catherine, or just more about Darcy's aversion to society, Elizabeth did not care, for his interference had kept her home and afforded her time for solitude and reading.
"Did Charles not join you?" Lady Catherine asked, after greeting both Darcy and Elizabeth with a kiss on the cheek.
Charles Bingley had found himself taken in as a member of the family by Lady Catherine. If there was one thing that Darcy's aunt found tantalizing, it was the prospect of offering guidance by way of instruction and reprimand to those whom she deemed in need of such service.
Bingley, being both from trade and an orphan, was, in Lady Catherine's opinion, decidedly in need of her assistance. Thankfully, Bingley was an amiable man, and his wife was long-suffering, for Lady Catherine was not always tactful in her instruction.
Unfortunately, or perhaps happily for some, Caroline Ainsworth Nabingley was not as amiable as her brother, and soon decided it was best not to be found very often in Lady Catherine's presence.
Therefore, she determined to keep herself to her husband's sphere of friends as much as possible. "We left earlier so that we could call on the parsonage before arriving at Rosings," Darcy explained as he led Elizabeth to a sofa. "Another?" Darcy looked at his aunt in confusion. Pardon me. Another what?
Child. She waved her hand at Elizabeth.
Your wife is walking as if she's with child. You cannot keep avoiding society in such a fashion, Darcy. Her tone was stern, but she smiled. I do hope it is a girl this time, she said as she took her seat. My given name is Catherine Estella, you know.
This was not new information to either Elizabeth or Darcy. Lady Catherine had contributed a great list of acceptable names during Elizabeth's first pregnancy. "Estella is beautiful," said Elizabeth.
"Indeed," said Lady Catherine, settling back in her chair, and looking satisfied that her name would one day be born by a Darcy child. "The child is expected to arrive before the season, and we intend to be in town with Georgiana and Elizabeth's sisters during the season," said Darcy.
Lady Catherine clucked her tongue, still unmarried and so pretty. She was nearly as bad as Mrs. Bennet in wishing to see all the Bennett daughters well married.
We shall have to see what can be done on that front. But what of Anne? asked Darcy. Will she not need you here? She has her husband and Mrs. Jeninson, and I will not be far if I am needed. Anne had married in the spring following Darcy and Elizabeth's fateful trip to Rosings.
Mr. Abney had indeed been interested in courting Anne, and once Darcy had stepped away, Mr. Abney had taken very little time in making his intentions known. They, their daughter, and Mrs. Jeninson, who had been retained to help care for the child, lived at an estate 10 mi from Rosings, and nearer to London.
But will you not miss your grandchild too much? Darcy teased.
I should say not. I shall visit Anne on my trip to town and again when I return, and while I am in town, I shall have others to snuggle. She smiled at the thought. I have had Cook make biscuits just for Alexander, his own tin.
He and Uncle Richard will be pleased, said Elizabeth with a laugh.
Lady Catherine tipped her head and nodded slowly. "He's very good with children, is he not?" "Surprisingly so," said Darcy. "He was never so kind to me when we were children. However, he has always been understanding and gentle with Georgiana, so I suppose that it should not surprise me as it does. "He's selling his commission," Lady Catherine said as she straightened the hem of her sleeve. "Does he know this?" Darcy asked. Lady Catherine shrugged. "He has been considering the idea, but I may have helped it along." Darcy shook his head and chuckled. His aunt had always been medalsome, but in the last 3 years, she had become even more so.
She straightened the hem of her other sleeve, a sure sign that she was up to something devious. It is time he marry.
She looked up with a knowing and somewhat calculating grin. And I believe that I have found just the lady.
This has been discovering Mr. Darcy, a dash of Darcian Companions collection, book four, written by Linie Brown and narrated by Christopher, an authorized voice replica. The 2017 copyright for Discovering Mr. Darcy is held by Lanie Brown. All rights reserved.
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