by Linda Wells
“I find it difficult to believe that any woman could be so extraordinary.” Darcy internally smiled at his obstinacy while Richard thought about his next statement. “Are you certain, beyond doubt, that she is not playing at some game, pretending friendship to Georgiana simply to become closer to winning you?” He saw the ire appear in Darcy’s eyes. “It is a perfectly reasonable question, Darcy. I am Georgiana’s guardian as well. If you are blinded by this woman, I must be sure that she is not using both of you for her own plans. I realize that you are experienced in fending them off, but she is so unusual that she might have found a way through your guard. If she is so willing to break with propriety, is there something more in her background that you do not know about? Could an attachment with her make things worse?”
He watched as Darcy reached into his coat and rubbed at his chest while closing his eyes, then removed his hand to again twist the ribbon entwined in his fingers. “I am sure.” He opened his eyes. “Georgiana and I will be going to Netherfield to stay with Charles Bingley and his family. There I intend to enter into a courtship and make my proposal. I hope to return to Pemberley a married man. If society rejects us, so be it. If you or your parents choose not to support us, we will miss you. Some young man will marry Georgiana, and as long as they love each other and he can support her, I will not question his status. Society has already declared her ruined, so why should we dance to their tune? We have more than enough here without them, and I know how to make Pemberley grow. Miss Elizabeth will not miss what she never has experienced or expected. My decision is made. What is yours?”
“I would like to reserve my decision until after I have met her.”
Darcy nodded. “That is reasonable and fair. If I am successfully married by Christmas, you and the rest of the family will be invited here.”
“I would like to repeat this conversation to my parents and James.” Darcy waved his hand to the door. Richard stood and walked from the room. Darcy felt oddly complacent. His decision was irrevocably made. He resumed the work he started the day before and it was over an hour later that a footman brought a note requesting his company. He shook his head at it and sighed, preparing for the attack.
“Darcy.” Lord Matlock came forward and held out his hand. Darcy looked down at the offered hand then back up to his uncle and saw sincerity. He briefly clasped his hand and remained standing as his uncle resumed his seat. “We have been discussing your … choice. We understand your anger with society. You have endured more than enough to justify your position. We still feel that a marriage with a woman from our circle would be greatly beneficial to you and that marrying so far below yourself will likely cause more unwanted talk, possibly describing you as unmarriageable to anyone better by those disappointed in losing you.”
“I am sure that would have been the case regardless of who I married. There was bound to be someone disappointed. Too many have chased me for too long.”
“I will concede that point.” He sighed. “Darcy, we all wish you to be happy. We know, well we can not truly know, but we have a fair idea of your childhood …”
“Uncle, I do not expect you to hold a ball in our honour. I do not expect any social obligations at all. What I would like is that you give Miss Elizabeth a chance, and when in company, treat her with civility. I expect nothing from Aunt Catherine, but I hope at least that from you. Miss Elizabeth knows of everything that has happened with Georgiana, and I intend to speak to her father about it. It is hardly a secret in London, and he deserves to know. I would hope that the news not be spread in Meryton while we are there, simply to give Georgiana an opportunity to make friends. She has come such a long way since June, and no little reason for that is due to Miss Elizabeth’s care and encouragement. What better sister could I have found for her?” He sighed. “Richard said that he would reserve his opinion until he meets her. Perhaps you could do the same. In truth, I do not need your approval.”
Lady Matlock stood and walked to stand before him. “I understand that you have invited us for Christmas.”
He nodded. “I have, I hope to have Miss Elizabeth by my side.”
“And your wedding?”
“You would come?” He looked at her with surprise.
Richard spoke. “I must return to London soon, but it is near enough to Hertfordshire that I could easily come for a few days and meet her. Mother and Father have agreed to accept my judgment. If I find that Miss Elizabeth is all that you believe, and that you have not been taken in by a … woman unworthy of your regard, I will communicate the fact to them.”
Lady Matlock agreed. “You are correct Darcy, you do not require our approval in anything, but, if this woman truly is all that you say, and I admit, I have already seen the difference she has made in both you and Georgiana, perhaps our presence at the wedding would be of some aid in both of your futures. This all depends on Richard’s decision. Regardless, we will treat your wife with civility if she shows the same to us and especially, you.”
Darcy nodded. “Very well. I will write to you Richard when I feel that the time is right for your presence. I am sure that Bingley will not object at all to your visit. Perhaps it will distract his sister from me.” He smiled at Richard’s grimace. He looked to his aunt. “I would love to have my family around me at my wedding, no matter the reason.”
“Well then. I believe we will depart for Matlock, and leave you to your courtship.” Lord Matlock and James stood. Darcy could see that both were very unhappy with the decision, but the fact that they had agreed to it spoke volumes to him of their affection and hopes for him. Georgiana was summoned to say her farewells and soon the two siblings were left alone again.
CHARLES BINGLEY watched with great excitement and pride as the servants bustled about, unloading the luggage cart and settling him, his sisters, and his brother Gilbert Hurst into Netherfield. It was finally happening. The first tentative steps to owning an estate had been taken, and so far, all had gone well. Almost as soon as their wagons came to a stop at the front door, he received a call from one of his neighbours, Sir William Lucas and his son John, welcoming him to the neighbourhood, and inviting his party to attend an assembly dance the following Tuesday. Bingley happily accepted the invitation, knowing that Darcy would be arriving the day before with Georgiana. Sir William informed him of his being the parent of two lovely daughters, and of course Bingley exclaimed with delight that he looked forward to meeting them. His task completed, Sir William departed leaving John looking about for the missing man who he considered his competition, and was disappointed upon learning that Darcy had not yet arrived. Bingley returned to the drawing room to the varying degrees of amusement of his family.
“You had better watch yourself, Bingley. I think that the mamas of the neighbourhood have you in their sights!” Hurst laughed.
Bingley smiled. “I think that I will rather enjoy the experience Hurst. In London I am but one of many, and really quite unimportant. But here, ah I will enjoy the display that is meant just for me!”
Caroline rolled her eyes. “Charles, you will not fall in love with a country miss. I forbid it! You were doing quite well in Town.”
Bingley shook his head. “Yes, Caroline, anything you say, Caroline.” Hurst laughed and the two men set out to find the billiards room while Caroline and Louisa supervised the unpacking. Within the hour the heads of house for six more families paid their respects. Amongst them was Mr. Bennet.
Upon his introduction, Mr. Bennet took a long look at Mr. Bingley. He was handsome, Lizzy was correct. That would please Mrs. Bennet. He had an urge of compassion to warn the man of what his wife had planned, but decided he would prefer to watch it all unfold instead. He looked over the other man. Surely this was not Mr. Darcy? Bingley finished his bow and gestured to his companion. “Mr. Bennet, may I introduce my brother, Mr. Hurst?”
Mr. Bennet bowed. “I am pleased to meet you sir! I was under the impression that you were to host another family, the Darcys.”
Bingley grinne
d. “Ah yes, I understand that your daughter Miss Elizabeth has begun a correspondence with Miss Darcy? They are to arrive Monday afternoon.”
Mr. Bennet nodded. “Lizzy will be pleased to hear that, the letters that pass between the two are undoubtedly wearing out her brother’s messenger, to say nothing of his horse!” The men laughed, and Mr. Bennet departed, looking forward to telling Lizzy of his news.
“I paid a call on Mr. Bingley today.” He said casually at dinner.
All conversation ceased and six pairs of female eyes fixed upon him. He said nothing, enjoying the tension. Mrs. Bennet could stand no more. “Well? What did he say? What did he look like? Is he amiable?”
He laughed. “He was gracious and excitable. I suppose he is handsome. Lizzy’s description, I think was quite accurate. I met his other guest as well.” He watched Elizabeth’s face as her breath caught. “A Mr. Hurst.” He saw the disappointment and wondered at it. Perhaps there was something in this Mr. Darcy theory of his wife’s. “He and his wife, as well as Mr. Bingley’s other sister, are in residence.” Elizabeth looked sadly at Jane, who squeezed her hand. “Some more guests are expected soon. Mr. Darcy and his sister will arrive Monday.” Elizabeth could not hide the delight in her eyes and she smiled with relief. “I thought that would please you, Lizzy. You will see your friend at last.”
Elizabeth met his eyes. “Yes, Papa, I look forward very much to finally seeing my friend in person.” Mr. Bennet raised his brow and nodded. He knew there was much more meaning in her statement than she let on.
The meal was interrupted by Mrs. Hill. “Miss Elizabeth, the messenger is here.” Elizabeth shot up out of her chair and left the room before anyone could draw breath.
Mrs. Bennet watched her disappear. “Well, finally the young men will be here, and my plans will be fulfilled. Now Jane, I am sure Mr. Bingley will attend the assembly on Tuesday. You and Lizzy must come with me into Meryton and we will buy you both new gowns. You must look your best that night.” Mrs. Bennet prattled on about dresses and lace while Kitty and Lydia petitioned for their own new things. Mary began to sermonize about the need for female modesty in their dress, and Mr. Bennet watched the door for Elizabeth’s return. She missed the rest of the meal.
“Danny!” She came to the door to greet the young man. She stepped out onto the porch, and away from curious ears. “How was your trip?”
He grinned. “Very nice, Miss. I’m learning a few quicker paths here, now!”
She laughed then asked carefully. “And how are the Darcys?”
He bowed his head as he opened his bag. “Mr. Darcy was a sight when I brought your last letter, Miss, but when he gave me this one, I doubt a week of scrubbing could wipe the smile off his face.” Elizabeth blushed with pleasure as he retrieved the two envelopes. “He told me to wait as long as necessary for your reply. I’ll just head over to the stable and take a rest if you don’t mind, Miss.”
Elizabeth was weighing the thick envelope and looking at it with curiosity. “Oh yes, please do.”
She returned to the house, and avoiding the noisy dining room went upstairs to sit on her bed. She determinedly placed William’s letter aside and first opened Georgiana’s. The girl’s emotion was heartbreaking. She was overwhelmed and grateful that Elizabeth would still wish to be her friend despite her horrible fall. Elizabeth could feel her isolation. Somehow though, Georgiana’s sadness struck her, something else was haunting the girl. She wondered what it could be. She amazed Elizabeth by telling her knowledge of William’s correspondence. Why would he confess such a secret?
I can not wait to see you Elizabeth. I hope so much that we will have the opportunity to talk. My aunt and my companion have helped, but I have not had the courage to speak with William. I love him so much and he was so unhappy over the past weeks when he thought that you no longer wished him to be your friend. Elizabeth, you must know that William thinks the world of you.
Your friend,
Georgiana
Elizabeth studied the last sentence and wondered what he had told her. She set Georgiana’s letter down and nervously retrieved his. Running her fingers over the fine paper, she carefully broke his seal and upon pulling open the sheets, something fell out onto her lap. Looking, her breath caught. It was a lock of his hair, tied in a piece of worn yellow ribbon. It was some minutes before she could control her emotional tears, but when she finally did, she clutched the gift in her hand and read. He was serious at first, describing his fears and torture over her seeming rejection, then he was emotional telling her of his elation when Danny found him and delivered her assurances. Then he was passionate, telling her about his home. He described Pemberley with pride. He asked how she felt about living in the country and if she preferred it to town. He asked if she had an urge to be a part of society, or if she wished to live a quiet life. He told her of his relatives’ hopes for his future, and then stated plainly his disagreement. In short, he was asking her if she would like to live at his beloved estate, without the support of society or his family.
In closing, my dearest Elizabeth, my friend, I must tell you that I look forward to seeing you and finally hearing your musical laughter, and gazing upon your incomparable beauty once again. I count the days, and I dearly hope that the friendship that we have begun will only grow when we are at last together. I have great hopes for us.
Yours,
William
Elizabeth read his letter through again, it was difficult to see the paper through her constantly streaming tears. She opened her hand to behold his gift, and stroked the soft black hair, lifting it to brush against her cheek and lips. He had given her a piece of himself to hold and treasure when he was away. Closing her eyes she brushed the feathery token on her face again and imagined that same hair grazing against her as he took her in his arms and bestowed her first kiss. A shiver ran through her at the thought. She practiced kissing him deep in the dark of night, when nobody could hear her whispering to her pillow. Maybe, maybe she would feel his tender touch soon.
She settled at her writing desk, absurdly small for a grown woman in a little girl’s room, and wrote him everything that she was feeling at that moment. The paper she sprinkled with the lavender water kept in a bottle on her dressing table, and kissed the envelope before sealing it. She penned a letter to Georgiana assuring her of her willing ear and her fondness for her brother then escaped the house to find Danny, who was sleeping against some hay in the barn.
Nudging him awake he blinked sleepily. “Aye Miss, that took a while, but I will be on my way back now.” Elizabeth insisted that he stay the night, and he laughingly refused. “Once the master is here, Miss, I imagine I’ll be getting caught up on my sleeping.” Soon enough he was on his way, with Elizabeth wishing him Godspeed.
Two days later, Darcy finished reading Elizabeth’s reply. He drew a deep breath and slowly exhaled. The smile he wore would light up a darkened room.
I believe, my William; that I have addressed your concerns and hope with all of my heart that my responses bring you the happiness you seek. I too count the days until I can see you before me and no longer in my imagination. The day after you arrive there shall be an assembly in Meryton. Shall I be so fortunate to find myself dancing a set or two or more with you? I wait for the feel of your hand holding mine.
Yours,
Elizabeth
Darcy looked at the shortened ribbon he clutched in his hand as he read her letter, and hoped she would wear yellow the night he first danced with her. “Oh yes my love, there is no other partner for me but you.”
“MR. DARCY!” Caroline Bingley purred. Darcy nodded and murmured his greeting then quickly sidestepped her, and grasping Georgiana’s arm, walked up the stairs to greet Bingley. After the two long days of travel, the last thing he needed to do was bear her attentions.
“Darcy! Welcome! How was your journey? Miss Darcy! You look lovely! Welcome! Come in, come in!” Darcy smiled and looked at his sister whose eyes were wide at Bingley’s effusions.
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“Thank you, Bingley. Our journey was comfortable.” Darcy took Georgiana’s arm and escorted her inside.
Caroline and Louisa had made their plans, but they would not put them in motion for a week or so. Until then, they would simply be very kind and sweet to the young girl. “Oh Miss Darcy, come, you must want some tea after that long trip!” Caroline gushed. “How are things at Pemberley; is it still beautiful? I always enjoyed visiting there in August, and was disappointed to not come this year.”
Georgiana, always intimidated by the woman who so clearly was chasing her brother could not find her voice. Darcy stepped in. “Miss Bingley, as I knew that Bingley was preparing to take up residence at Netherfield soon, I was sure that the travel to Pemberley would be inconvenient for him.” He turned to look at his friend.
“Indeed, I am afraid that I would have had to refuse the invitation Darcy. I was quite overwhelmed by the details.” He smiled and gave Darcy a little wink. “Miss Darcy, perhaps you would like to see your chambers and rest a bit before dinner? I put you in a room next to your brother. Caroline could you escort Miss Darcy and her companion upstairs? I would like a word with Darcy.” He looked at her pointedly and she smiled.
