If Only In His Dreams

by Schertz, Melanie

  Taking three days to travel from Longbourn to Pemberley, the family was anxiously awaiting the sight of the grand estate. Lady Anne was pleased to see how dear their home was to her children. Looking at Elizabeth, Lady Anne watched to see her reaction when they would come around the next bend in the road which would allow for a breathtaking view of the grand estate. And when the carriage rounded the bend, the expression Elizabeth wore made the others in the carriage smile. It was obvious that she was pleased with her new home.

  “I remembered the area being quite pleasant, as the ruggedness of the land is priceless. But I never knew that a house so grand could be made to fit in with the surrounding nature as if the house sprung from the ground like a tree or bush. This is truly heaven.”

  “Would you like to stop for a few moments to take in the view or are you ready to enter your new home?” Darcy asked.

  “I am ready to arrive at our home. And I believe I am in need of a hot bath and a nap after spending so long on the road.” Seeing her husband’s eyebrow rise with concern, Elizabeth continued. “You are well aware of my preference to being out of doors. I have never been one to travel in a closed in carriage for long, for I feel as if I am trapped indoors while all the beautiful scenery is passing me by. I felt this way even before my current condition, only now I am easier to become fatigued. That is not unusual, is it Mother?”

  Lady Anne smiled at her daughter in law. “It is indeed normal. My dear boy, do not fret over your wife being fatigued easier. It is the body’s way of protecting itself from over doing. Resting more often helps the body become stronger while a child is within.”

  This calmed Darcy’s worry considerably. “Then we will arrive at the house within half of an hour. I will request a bath drawn for you my love. Would you care for some refreshments before your bath?”

  Elizabeth smiled. “Perhaps something light would be pleasant; some tea and maybe some biscuits.”

  The carriage came to a stop in front of the grand house and as soon as the door opened, Darcy stepped out and handed down his mother and sister before taking his wife’s hand and assisted her in exiting the carriage. The servants had lined up on the steps leading to the main entrance door. Darcy held his wife’s hand to his lips and placed a kiss on her knuckles. “I wish to introduce to you, Mrs Elizabeth Darcy; my wife and your new mistress.”

  The servants began clapping in approval. The elderly lady at the top of the stairs smiled in a clear sign of approval. Leading Elizabeth to this lady, Darcy introduced her. “My dear, this is the woman I have told you so much of these past months; Mrs Reynolds. Mother will tell you how dear Mrs Reynolds is to us, as well as to the entire estate. She is truly the one who runs the house, as she keeps everything in order, even if we are not here.”

  Lady Anne took hold of Elizabeth’s other hand as she hobbled up the steps and into the entry way. Servants came from what seemed to be the shadows and assisted the Darcys in removing their outer wear. “Elizabeth, if you ever have any questions pertaining to the estate, if our devoted Mrs Reynolds is unable to assist you, the world must be coming to an end. Mildred is well informed as to all that happens on our estate.”

  “Lady Anne, your praises are bias.” Mrs Reynolds stated. “Mrs Darcy, I cannot tell you what joy your marriage has brought to all of us at Pemberley.”

  “I thank you, Mrs Reynolds. I look forward to knowing you and everyone else better over the coming months. I do so enjoy being here in Derbyshire again. It is as beautiful as when I was a child.”

  Seeing that Mrs Reynolds was confused, Darcy spoke. “Mrs Darcy’s aunt was from Lambton and when my dear wife was but a child, they took a holiday visit to the area.”

  “Your aunt’s family hails from Lambton? Might I inquire as to the family name?”

  “Blaine. Her father owned the mercantile.” Elizabeth said as she smiled.

  “Helen Blaine?” Mrs Reynolds asked. Seeing Elizabeth nod her head, Mrs Reynolds smiled. “I remember Helen very well. So she married your uncle then?”

  “She is now Helen Gardiner, married to my mother’s only brother. They live in London and have a sweet family.”

  “Goodness, what a surprise. The niece of Helen Blaine is now Mrs Darcy. Her family was greatly admired and has been missed since Mr Blaine’s death. Mrs Blaine moved away with her son.”

  “She passed away near ten years ago. She was always a favorite of ours whenever she visited Aunt Helen. I will never forget how she would bring us sweets with every visit.”

  “Well, I am sure that you are all tired from the travel and would wish for baths and something to eat. I had water ready to heat for baths as soon as your carriage was seen entering the grounds. Trays are being prepared to take to your rooms with some hot tea and some cold meats and cheeses. We will serve supper later than usual this evening, as you will most likely wish to rest for a little bit as well.”

  Lady Anne laughed. “What did I tell you, Lizzy? Mrs Reynolds is a miracle.” Seeing Mrs Reynolds’s eyebrow raise, Lady Anne smiled. “Lizzy was just telling us on the way here that she wished to have a bath, something to eat and a rest. Here you have already prepared for her wishes before even meeting her.”

  “Mrs Reynolds, Lady Anne has told me a great deal with regards to you, though she did not inform me that you are a mind reader. Your thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated.”

  Elizabeth was led into her rooms and she gasped. She had not expected to find such a room so situated. “These are my rooms?”

  “They were Mother’s, though she moved from them after our wedding so you would be in the Mistress’s chambers.”

  “It was not necessary, Mother.” Elizabeth exclaimed. “William and I could have taken different apartments.”

  “No, Lizzy, it was only right for you both to be in these rooms. You are the current Master and Mistress of Pemberley. And as I have discussed, I will be moving to the Dowager cottage on the estate. You deserve this time together, after all you have been through in the past months. And Lizzy, do not fear offending me by making any changes to your rooms. It is yours now; make it to your liking.”

  Elizabeth’s eyes grew round. “Mother, it feels as if I were in a meadow on a spring day. The colors and textures are so comfortable and inviting. I cannot imagine changing one thing in these rooms.”

  Smiling at his mother and then his wife, Darcy pulled Elizabeth into his embrace. “I knew that you would love these rooms. I have often felt these rooms made me forget I was inside the grand house. You are correct in stating it is like being in a spring meadow.”

  Everyone went to their rooms, Lady Anne utilizing rooms down the hall for the evening before she moved to the cottage the following day. Baths were taken and trays of refreshments were enjoyed before the family settled in to rest before supper.

  Darcy entered his wife’s bedchamber to rest with her. Lying on the bed beside her, he propped himself up on his side and allowed his fingers to roam freely over her body. When it came to her belly, Darcy tenderly caressed over her midsection for several moments. All the while his thoughts were consumed with the knowledge that inside was a new life growing daily, a new life which formed by his love for his wife. Though he still worried for her safety, he was coming to enjoy the fact that Elizabeth was carrying his child.

  Elizabeth watched the emotions playing over Darcy’s expressive face. “Are you well, my beloved?” She asked him.

  With a chuckle, Darcy looked into her eyes. “I should be the one to ask you such a question, dearest. Are you truly well?”

  “I am. I could not be happier with my condition. I pray our child has your eyes. I love looking into your eyes. It makes me feel as if I was wrapped in your love and it brings me such comfort.”

  “I wish for a little girl with your curls, and with your strength of character.” Darcy reached over and began to play with one of her curls which had escaped from her plait.

  “I will remind you of your request when you have to deal with our daughter being so s
tubborn that she will not listen to you.” Elizabeth laughed. “You wish for a daughter, not a son?”

  With a sheepish grin, Darcy continued to play with her curls. “I can wait for a son to come next. I wish for a daughter first. And I do not have to have a son to leave the estate to. As there is no entail, I can leave it to a son or daughter.”

  “Interesting, I believe that more people should be so open minded when they plan the future for their children. Far too many people fail to treat their daughters as well as they do their sons.”

  “Something I never plan to do, my love. All of our children will be treated fairly and with love. How could I ever treat a child borne of our love unfairly?”

  “I am pleased to know that you are planning to be as loving a father as you are a husband. Thank you, my love.” Elizabeth’s hand caressed the side of his face, pushing a wayward strand of hair from his brow.

  “Rest now, my dear wife. We will have plenty of time to discuss our children later. First, we need to care for my children’s mother.”

  The couple moved into their familiar position to sleep. It had become their custom to cuddle together, with her back against his chest and his arms wrapped around her possessively. Elizabeth knew that she was loved by her husband, and she felt secure in his embrace. Sleep came easily when in his arms. She knew not how she had ever been able to sleep before she married this wonderful man.

  Chapter 30

  The days flew by as the family settled into their new environments. Lady Anne and Georgiana had comfortably made the dowager cottage their home. Being close enough to spend time with the newlyweds, yet giving the couple some well-deserved privacy gave everyone what they needed. As the weather grew warm, many days the ladies would spend their time in the gardens or near the pond that had become one of Elizabeth’s favorite locations. During these times, Darcy would take advantage of his wife being well looked after so he could concentrate on his work. Elizabeth would often spend time in his study reading while he poured over his correspondence, but when he rode out with his steward, Darcy was pleased that his mother and sister would be with Elizabeth. Though he tried desperately to control his fear from his former dreams, Darcy found that he was comforted by her being with his family.

  Lady Anne had suspected that her son preferred to have Elizabeth with his family whenever he could not be, so she began to inquire as to his schedule. This also allowed Elizabeth time to know more of the Darcy family as well as Pemberley’s history. This was a precious time for Elizabeth; she enjoyed learning all she could about her husband’s family and of her husband’s childhood. It was heartwarming to Elizabeth to hear the stories of Darcy as a young man, free from all the concerns and demands that the estate had for its master. And Elizabeth understood better her husband’s nature, as it was deeply engrained as he became responsible after his father’s death.

  One afternoon, the ladies had taken their sewing down to the pond. Elizabeth was working on a dressing gown to send to Richard and Anne for their child, while Georgiana and her mother were working on items for the newest Darcy.

  “I received a letter from Lady Catherine today.” Lady Anne stated. “She was planning to come for a visit, but she is loathed to leave Anne at this time. Even though it is yet another month at least until the babe is expected, my sister stated that Anne has become quite large and having difficulty moving around without aid. It is believed that she carries twins.”

  “How wonderful.” Elizabeth exclaimed. “I am so happy for her. I will need to make a second gown then.”

  “And you best do so quickly, as it is quite common for twins to be born early.”

  Elizabeth ran her hand over her own expanding belly. “How I wish my own bundle was to come this very moment. I know it is not yet time, but I feel as if I am as big as a house. I cannot remember the last time I actually saw my toes.”

  “I was that way when I carried William.” Lady Anne smiled with the memory. “He was quite low and a very large infant. I was so grateful to my maid for all she endured during my confinements. And my husband was such a dear man to do everything in his power to make me comfortable, just as his son is doing for you.”

  “I know that I become frustrated at times with William. I am more frustrated that I cannot do all that I wish and do not wish to be a burden to him.”

  “Lizzy, my brother would never think of you as a burden.” Georgiana joined the discussion. “He loves you so very much. If you were uncomfortable or displeased with something, William would be quite upset if he had not been told so that he could make the situation better for you.”

  Smiling at the young lady standing up for her brother, Elizabeth nodded her head. “I know, Georgie, and I am truly grateful for his attention and his kindness. I am frustrated with my own limitations, and, unfortunately, William is the recipient of my vocalizing my frustration. There is no man who is more loving than your brother. He is the very best man of my acquaintance.”

  As Elizabeth stood up, she felt a twinge in her lower back. Taking a quick, deep breath, Elizabeth was bent over and could not stand up further.

  “Lizzy, what is wrong?” Lady Anne asked with concern. “Are you in pain?”

  “Something is wrong.” Elizabeth stated as she attempted to stand again and failed. She cried out when a strong pain struck her and forced her to her knees, falling forward on her hands as if she planned to crawl.

  "How often are your pains?” A concerned Lady Anne asked.

  “I have felt pressure off and on all morning, but when I just stood up, I felt as if I were going to tear apart.” Another pain came, causing Elizabeth to roll on her side. “Something is wrong, it is too early.” She cried.

  “Babes seldom come as we wish, making their appearance at the most inopportune times. You are far enough along, I am certain that the babe will be fine. Georgiana, I would like you to hurry to the house and tell Mrs Reynolds where we are and what has happened. I do not believe we will have time for the midwife to come attend Elizabeth, so have Cook prepare to assist me in delivering the babe.” Lady Anne thought of what to do about her son; he had travelled London to finalize some business before the babe was due to arrive. He knew that he would not wish to leave his wife’s side after the birth and with the arrival not due for another month, felt safe in making the trip.

  “Once everything is done, I will send an express to London to William. I know that he will be disappointed to not be here, but it is most likely better he isn’t, so that he will not have to fret in the hall or attempt to force his way to be at your side.” Lady Anne was attempting to make light of the situation.

  “Mother, my gown is wet.” Elizabeth stated as she looked desperately in Lady Anne’s eyes.

  “It is natural, Lizzy. It happens as the babe is ready to be born. Have no fear.” Turning her head, Lady Anne saw help coming in the form of Mrs Reynolds and Cook. Following behind were maids carrying sheets and toweling, as well as a pail of water. “I fear that there is no time to take Elizabeth to the house, this babe is determined to enter this world immediately.” Her words were joined with another cry from Elizabeth as she gripped her mother in law’s hand.

  Once the pain had dissipated, Lady Anne spoke to the ladies again. “Her pains are coming closer together. It will not be long before the babe crowns.”

  The ladies moved Elizabeth to a more comfortable position leaning against a nearby tree. A towel was folded and placed behind her head to give her some comfort. A sheet was draped over her lower half, as Cook took position to check on the progress of the delivery. “I see the top of the head coming.” She stated as she began calling orders to everyone near her. Lady Anne took her daughter in law’s hand while placing her other arm around Elizabeth’s shoulders. When told that the time had come, Lady Anne told Elizabeth to bear down and push with all her might. A few moments later, the sound of an infant crying out for the first time could be heard for quite some distance. Elizabeth smiled for a moment before another pain tore through her. It did
not surprise Lady Anne, as her mother’s family had a great many dual births. She had wondered with how large Elizabeth had become, and then with how rapid the delivery had come. Elizabeth was again told to push and moments later, the second child was born. The children had been handed off to Mrs Reynolds to swaddle them until they could bring the children inside to be cleaned from their birth. As the babies were tended to, Cook aided Elizabeth in passing the afterbirth.

  Finally the wagon was brought down and the ladies loaded Elizabeth and her babies on to be taken home. Arriving at the main house, the footmen were called to carry Elizabeth into the house. Hot water to cleanse the new mother was prepared, as was fresh bedding and clothing. The twins were cleaned and placed into dressing gowns while their mother was cared for and placed into bed. The infants were placed in their mother’s embrace. Elizabeth smiled with joy that she had not one, but two beautiful bundles, taking great joy in watching her babes nurse at her breasts.