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Chapter Text

"...You can hardly doubt the purport of my discourse; my attentions have been too marked to be mistaken. As soon as I entered the house, I singled you out as the companion of my future life. But before I am run away with by my feelings on this subject, perhaps it would be advisable for me to state my reasons for marrying—and, moreover, for coming into Hertfordshire with the design of selecting a wife, as I certainly did…"

Jane Bennet had been expecting an offer of marriage from her distant cousin, Mr Collins. He had explained several times, including during this proposal, that he had come to their house one fine Monday in August in search of a wife to make amends for the entail on the estate that prevented any daughter from inheriting and rendered himself the heir presumptive. He had selected her from among the five sisters, as the eldest and most beautiful, with her mother's encouragement, and performed what he must have supposed to be courtship over the past nine days of his visit.

"...My reasons for marrying are, first, that I think it a right thing for every clergyman in easy circumstances (like myself) to set the example of matrimony in his parish; secondly, that I am convinced that it will add very greatly to my happiness; and thirdly—which perhaps I ought to have mentioned earlier, that it is the particular advice and recommendation of the very noble lady whom I have the honour of calling patroness…"

What Jane had not anticipated was the exact nature of his proposal. Although her cousin was a parson, his disposition was imbued with false humility and excessive sense of self-importance. She was fairly certain his first loyalty would lay with his patroness rather than his wife. Luckily, Jane was blessed with a generous, serene nature that allowed her to see the good in everyone and withstand any difficulty with grace. She was especially thankful for her gift of patience at the present moment as she awaited her opportunity to respond to the man's rambling.

"…And now nothing remains for me but to assure you in the most animated language of the violence of my affection. To fortune I am perfectly indifferent, and shall make no demand of that nature on your father, since I am well aware that it could not be complied with; and that one thousand pounds in the four per cents, which will not be yours till after your mother's decease, is all that you may ever be entitled to. On that head, therefore, I shall be uniformly silent; and you may assure yourself that no ungenerous reproach shall ever pass my lips when we are married."

Now was the time. She felt her nerves rise as she prayed desperately that she was doing the correct thing. She cleared her throat and forced a smile.

"Mr Collins, I thank you for your proposal. Provided my father gives you his consent, I will accept your offer and become your wife."

"Oh, thank you, my dearest Jane," he cried with a delighted grin. "You have made me the happiest of men this day. I will seek out your father and request his consent forthwith. But first,"—his smile somehow widened even more—"may I humbly request a small kiss from my bride to be?"

Panic rose so quickly that Jane was almost unable to reply on time.

"I apologise, sir, but I must refuse this request. It is not proper and I believe we should wait until we are married."

His face fell, though he attempted to remain smiling so as to mask his severe disappointment from the lovely lady.

"Yes, my dear, you are quite right. Quite right. Please forgive my presumption. Your modesty, so far from doing you any disservice, rather adds to your other perfections. You would have been less amiable in my eyes had there not been this little unwillingness. Now, if you will excuse me, I must speak with your father without further loss of time."

Bowing, he exited the room while her mother and sisters rushed in.

"Oh Jane, my Jane!" exclaimed Mrs Bennet. "You will be married! I can scarcely believe it—and to Longbourn's heir! We are saved!" She burst into tears.

Jane rubbed her back soothingly. "Yes, Mama, I am marrying Mr Collins." She looked around at her sisters; the youngest three, Mary, Kitty and Lydia, looked happy, but her dear Elizabeth was holding back tears. "Our futures are secure. All of you will be welcome to remain at Longbourn as long as necessary once Papa leaves us—which will likely not occur until well after the rest of you have married, anyhow."

"Or it could be tomorrow!" Mrs Bennet interjected. "But now it is no matter, for we shall not be turned out into the hedgerows. It is all thanks to you, my dearest Jane. You have saved this family and I shall never forget it."

As her mother continued to sob, Jane felt her strength return. She could do this. She could marry this man whom she did not love for the sake of her beloved mother and sisters. Perhaps his society would prove more pleasant on closer acquaintance. Perhaps the connection to his patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, would actually be as agreeable as he claimed. At any rate, he was not vicious, and would care for her and their children to the best of his ability; of that she was certain.

She looked again at her sister Elizabeth. "Thank you, Jane," Elizabeth whispered, as a single tear finally escaped.

Mr Bennet and Mr Collins entered the room together. Her father had a smile on his face, but Jane detected his melancholy as he made the announcement that the betrothal was now official.

He turned and hugged his eldest daughter tightly. "I am sorry, my girl," he murmured in her ear.

"Do not be sorry," she whispered back. "I am pleased to do my duty to this family. I will be happy."

Mr Collins spoke up. "Cousin Bennet has agreed with me that, as I am not able to frequently leave my parish for trips here, and I am eager to marry as soon as possible, we shall have the first banns called this very Sunday and marry three weeks from today on the fourth of September."

Another round of exclamations commenced from Mrs Bennet and the youngest two girls.

Mr Collins looked to his intended. "Is that acceptable to you, my dear?"

She smiled at his concern. "Yes, I thank you. I do not require a lavish wedding, and that is sufficient time to prepare for my removal to Kent."

Elizabeth was quiet throughout the conversation, indeed for the rest of the day. She should have prevented this, she thought miserably. She should have married him herself—or even better, she would have refused him, which her gentle sister had not the heart to do. Jane deserved better than this. Jane was so beautiful, so good and kind, she would surely have found a worthy man who would love and appreciate her. Now it was too late. If Jane had been unable to marry happily before being forced on their irksome cousin, what hope had she, the less attractive, more impertinent sister?

She refused to ruin the celebration with her tears. She would have plenty of time to shed them over the course of her long, bleak future.

The weeks preceding the wedding passed rapidly in a flurry of planning, trips to the local dressmaker in Meryton, and fits of Mama's nerves. Jane and Elizabeth spent far less time together than either wished, for the days were full to bursting and made them too exhausted to stay up late at night sharing confidences as they liked to do.

At last it was the eve of the event. All five sisters piled into Jane's bed for one last night as a complete Bennet family.

"Jane, how exciting that you shall be married!" said Lydia. "I wish I were the one getting married tomorrow, though I would have chosen someone better than Mr Collins."

"Lydia, Mr Collins is a respectable and eligible man," Jane chided. "We all could do worse than a clergyman, and this way our home will not be lost to the family. As the eldest it is my duty to take care of the rest of you. Please do not criticise my choice."

"Jane is correct," Mary said. "I, for one, appreciate what you are giving up for us. I know you always wished to marry for love."

"I still am," Jane smiled, "except it is love for you girls. But I am hopeful that love for my husband will also grow in time."

"You are too good," said Elizabeth. "I hope for your sake that what you predict will be true."

After more chatter, one by one the others left for their own bed chambers until only Jane and Elizabeth remained. 

"Lizzy," Jane said with a sudden urgency, "I am trying to be brave, but I am scared. I am leaving behind everyone and everything I have ever known."

"Every woman must be nervous before their wedding," Elizabeth soothed. "After observing him these past weeks, at least I am convinced that Mr Collins recognises what a prize he has caught. He will likely defer to Lady Catherine excessively, but he will be kind to you."

"I suppose that is all I can hope for," Jane sighed. "Lizzy—"

"Yes, dearest?" she asked quizzically at the oddly intense look her sister began giving her.

"Lizzy, promise me you will marry only for love. Not for duty or convenience. Only marry a man you love with all your heart."

"I cannot think of my own marriage right now!" Elizabeth cried. "You know I am most likely to while away my life living here with you and Mr Collins."

"No, you always say that but you will not," her sister insisted. "You will meet a good man who will love you and whom you will love, and you will be happy. Promise me."

"Jane," she shook her head.

"Promise me."

Elizabeth sighed. "Very well. As unlikely as I believe it to be, I promise I will only marry for love. Perhaps I can visit you in Kent and your Lady Catherine will introduce me to eligible men around Hunsford, for there is certainly no one in Hertfordshire for me."

"That is an excellent idea," Jane exclaimed. "Eligible men or not, you must visit me. Next spring, as soon as the roads are clear. Come in March."

Elizabeth squeezed her dearest sister's hands. "That is a promise I can easily make."

The weeks following the wedding and Jane's departure were dull. Elizabeth spent much time with her father in his library, taking long walks outside, and practising the pianoforte. She realised she was quite lonely without her closest confidante and attempted to spend more time with her younger sisters and her friend Charlotte Lucas. She had trouble growing accustomed to now being "Miss Bennet" rather than "Miss Elizabeth" in company. She wrote to Jane frequently, despite there being little news to impart.

One ordinary afternoon the four sisters were gathered in the parlour. Mary was reading, Lydia and Kitty were trimming a bonnet together with surprising harmony, and Elizabeth was working on her embroidery, while their mother was out making calls.

There was little conversation. The clock ticked softly. A bird chirped outside. 

Suddenly Mrs Bennet rushed into the room, bursting the pleasantly peaceful atmosphere.

"Girls, girls, you will not believe what I have just learned!" she cried.

"Netherfield Park is let at last!"

Chapter Text

Dear Lizzy,

Your last letter made me laugh. I would never have believed you could discuss one man so much without including actual information aside from the fact that he wore a blue coat and rode a black horse when he called on Papa. When you do meet Mr Bingley at the upcoming assembly I am certain you will tell me everything in your next letter. Please spare no details, for I know not when I will have an opportunity to attend such an event again and I must live vicariously through you. I hope that everything you have speculated about him comes to pass.

We are to dine at Rosings again tonight. Since my marriage we have been invited there about twice a week, whether for dinner, tea, or cards; my husband is quite pleased, as it is a far greater frequency than he ever enjoyed as a bachelor. 

I do believe Lady Catherine likes me. She was shocked to learn we never had a governess, and that all our sisters are out, and spoke forcefully on those subjects; however, she has also told me several times that I fulfil all her expectations for Mr Collins' wife, and even that she had not expected me to be so pretty. I never know how to respond when she speaks but she appears quite content to do the talking without much contribution from anyone else. I cannot imagine what things you will say about her when you meet her in March.

I must leave off here to dress for dinner. I eagerly await your report of the ball, and shall hope Mr Bingley asks you to dance. Give my love to the rest of the family, and Mr Collins sends his regards as well.

Your loving sister,

Jane

Mr Bennet sat in his library with a book and a glass of port. It was a common enough sight, but this time his mind was far away from either of those objects.

He missed his daughter Jane quite more than he had expected. Though she did not speak much, especially when compared to Elizabeth or Lydia, she was sensible and her soothing presence provided balance to the boisterous half of the family. She was also the best at calming her Mama. Not very surprisingly, having one daughter settled and her own future secure did little to temper his wife's nerves.

He keenly felt his failure as a father for allowing her to marry his cousin's son for the family's sake. Had he paid more attention to his girls' education and provided proper dowries their prospects would be much better than they were. Jane had always attracted notice whenever she visited her aunt and uncle Gardiner in London, but he had not been eager for her to marry any of Gardiner's business associates, and the gentlemen she met, though interested, never came to the point. There were always more eligible gentlewomen in town.

He thought about his young new neighbour, Mr Bingley. Though his wife was certain he would marry one of their girls, having met the man twice he was skeptical. He was amiable, but he was too lacking in depth for Elizabeth, not serious enough for Mary, and the others were too young and silly to consider marriage no matter what Mrs Bennet said. Jane likely would have liked him, he thought ruefully.

He sighed. He knew what he ought to do. Elizabeth and Mary were reasonably accomplished, but needed more than one thousand pounds each to be seriously considered by worthy gentlemen. He should have begun saving many years ago, yet by the time it was apparent there was no son forthcoming their family's spending habits were quite ingrained. Well, he could begin saving now, late though it was. 

He would implement little cuts to household expenditures, and the loss of Jane's expenses would help, but to increase his estate's income would make the greatest difference. His tenant farmers' lands had been decreasing in yield the last few years: surely something could be done in time for the planting next spring. He went to the farming shelf of his bookcase intending to brush up on his insufficient knowledge. 

He scanned the titles. He went back to the first and scanned them all again.

Perhaps he should not have been so surprised to find that not one of his books on the subject was less than twenty years old.

Shaking his head in disgust, he made for the stables and rode directly to the bookseller in Meryton.

"I hope you do not expect to catch Mr Bingley's eye this evening in that worn out dress," a supercilious whisper sounded in Elizabeth's ear.

She whipped around and saw her least favourite neighbours, the two Churchill sisters, Olivia and Emma. Elizabeth noted they were both wearing new gowns that were altogether too formal for a country assembly such as this.

"I hope for nothing tonight except to dance and enjoy the company of my friends," she answered sweetly.

"As it should be," Olivia replied. "I intend to capture Mr Bingley myself. No one else in the county has the dowry and connections Emma and I do, so it shall be an easy thing."

"I pray that when I 'capture' a man it will be because he likes me for myself," said Elizabeth.

"Let us both pray for such an event, for that is all you have." Olivia glanced over to Charlotte Lucas, who was standing next to Elizabeth. "Though that strategy does not work for all."

Smirking, the sisters walked off to station themselves near the door to be among the first to be introduced to Bingley and his friends.

"She is quite pleased with herself considering she is no more married than you or I," Elizabeth observed.

"With a Baronet for an uncle and a tolerable fortune, I do not know why they do not go husband hunting in town," said Charlotte. "If Mr Bingley does marry her we shall be stuck hearing her crowing from Netherfield all the rest of our days."

"Perish the thought!" cried Elizabeth. "I shall have to ensure I marry someone very far away if that happens, or move in with Jane in Kent."

Before Charlotte could reply, a slight commotion was heard and all eyes in the room turned towards the door. The Netherfield party had arrived. 

Dear Jane,

The assembly last night was quite an interesting affair. Will you believe that Papa actually came? He told me it was to help me watch over Kitty and Lydia now that you are gone away. I do not know how much his presence influenced them but there were no mishaps regardless.

Mr Bingley was handsome, charming, and danced every dance. He must have heard your wish, for he even danced once with me, and also once with Kitty. Though I had no designs on him myself—I could already tell the two of us would not suit—I was rather disappointed to see him take to Olivia Churchill so rapidly. In fact, he danced with her twice, and once with her sister, and a more smug woman I have never beheld!

Mr Bingley brought with him his two sisters, the elder sister's husband, Mr Hurst, and a friend. The sisters were quite elegant and quite covered in lace; Mama was very impressed. They certainly were impressed with themselves for coming here from London dressed more fashionably than the ladies of our small town. They spoke pleasantly with the Churchill ladies and little with the rest of us. Mr Hurst is hardly worth mentioning as he never stirred from the card room.

I have saved the best for last. The friend, Mr Darcy, is tall and handsome, and apparently very wealthy, but he quickly earned the disgust of the neighbourhood with his pride and refusal of all introductions. The disapprobation was mutual even before a shocking event occurred that Charlotte told me of this morning: it seems Mr Bingley left his second dance with Miss Churchill to press his friend to join, and pointed out Miss Emma Churchill as a potential partner as she was sitting nearby. Jane, you will never guess Mr Darcy's reply: "She is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me ;" and then something about her being slighted by other men, as though he were not the one slighting her himself.

Just imagine coming into a new neighbourhood to presumably help one's friend settle into his new home only to spend an entire assembly walking about with one's nose in the air and insulting young ladies! Why did he come at all? You know I have no great love for the Churchill family but we must have some neighbourly solidarity against the man's rudeness. Miss Emma was mortified. It would have been better had it happened to me, for I at least could have laughed about it.

I cannot help wondering, if Miss Churchill is "the only handsome woman in the room", and Miss Emma is "tolerable", how do the rest of us rank in Mr Darcy's estimation? Perhaps we should form a queue for him to peruse, the easier to allow him to make his pronouncements.

Nothing else of note occurred last night. I have concluded that none of the Netherfield party aside from Mr Bingley will be worth knowing, but they certainly shall be diverting to observe for however long they stay in the area.

I missed you dreadfully at the assembly; you would have been the most handsome woman in the room, I am certain.

How are your changes to the rear sitting room going? I am glad you will have a space of your very own to use. And is Mr Collins still devoted to his gardening? You are quite correct that meeting Lady Catherine will be a highlight for my trip next year.

Yours,

Elizabeth

Dear Lizzy,

What an interesting story about the assembly! It was very wrong of Mr Darcy to behave so. It must have been difficult for Miss Emma who already suffers from constant comparison to her beautiful older sister. I hope he will apologise to her and improve on closer acquaintance. I know you, and I beg you to try not to hold one bad night against him in your further interactions unless he proves consistently ill-mannered. 

You seemed rather harsh on Mr Bingley's sisters as well; I hope you will get to know them better before drawing any conclusions about their characters. I am glad you like Mr Bingley already, since he will remain your neighbour even after the others have gone, especially if he does form an attachment to Miss Churchill.

Life here continues as usual. Mr Collins and I have developed a routine, now that we have been married some six weeks. Two days ago we visited parishioners together as we have begun doing regularly, and he must have noticed when I admired some wildflowers along our way, for yesterday he presented me with a bouquet of those same flowers. He is a husband who is best enjoyed in smaller doses, but moments like that remind me he is a kind man at heart, even if his conversation is not always the most engaging. 

I have now finished redecorating the back parlour for my own use. It is quite pleasant having a quiet place to myself during the day where I may write my letters and work on sewing for needy parishioners or other projects. I am alone often while Mr Collins tends to his garden as well. It is a quiet life, and perhaps not the kind of joy and love I wish for you , dearest Lizzy, but I am content.

I always enjoy your letters and look forward to more stories of your new neighbours at Netherfield.

Your loving sister,

Jane

Elizabeth was in company with the Netherfield group several times over the next few weeks, as the local families took turns hosting more parties than usual in honour of their new neighbours. She amused herself by imagining she was a scientist studying a heretofore undiscovered species and delivering her observations in whispers to Charlotte or in letters to Jane. 

Mr Bingley was jovial when anyone managed to speak with him but he seemed singularly focused on Miss Churchill, much to the latter's satisfaction. His sisters spoke as little as possible to anyone outside the Churchill family, preferring to spend their time in contemplation of their own superiority, as Elizabeth liked to believe. Mr Darcy did not appear interested in anyone at all, allowing her imagination to run wild on what exactly was occurring in his thoughts as he stood silently surveying the room.

At one such party, an evening at Lucas Lodge, she and Charlotte were having a conversation along those lines.

"Mr Bingley certainly spends much time with Miss Churchill but I cannot imagine what they speak of," said Charlotte.

"I believe he tells her he admires her lovely visage, and she counters that she admires his fortune, and they simply repeat it back and forth until the evening has come to an end," replied Elizabeth.

"Every now and then he might add variation by complimenting her dress or hairstyle, while she changes to inquiring about the number of windows and size of the chimneypieces at Netherfield."

"Poor Mr Bingley; he seems like quite a nice man but whenever I speak with him his conversation is so shallow. Still, I do not believe he deserves to be leg-shackled to such an unpleasant woman."

"He is rather young," Charlotte observed. "Perhaps he has not yet grown to appreciate women's minds in addition to their figures." She looked around the room. "He is not the only one who has an object to frequently gaze at," she said with a raised eyebrow and a subtle nod in Mr Darcy's direction.

"Him?" Elizabeth furrowed her brow in confusion. Mr Darcy was nearby—actually, he was near her quite often, which she found convenient for her 'scientific' observations—and she had never caught him watching any one person more than the rest. "I had not noticed."

"You have not?" Charlotte smiled. "Very well, then."

Chapter Text

Dear Jane,

I must confess I laughed at your story about Lady Catherine in your last letter. What can she mean by changing your order with the butcher after you had left? It cannot matter to her what you do with your food budget! Truly, she must be seen to be believed, for I am beginning to wonder if you are inventing these tales in your spare time.

It seems fate has conspired to throw me in Mr Darcy's path this week. While you were correct that he has not been so boorish as on that first evening, he certainly has made no effort to befriend anyone. 

At Lucas Lodge the other night Sir William took it upon himself to perform a public service by convincing Mr Darcy to dance with me. Rather than insulting me to avoid a tedious half-hour, as he did to Emma Churchill, he managed to make the request without incident and performed admirably. I will compliment the gentleman on his good taste in preferring to dance with me over her, though he has yet to dance with anyone outside his party without external pressure.

Then, yesterday I chanced upon Mr Darcy on my morning walk while he was out riding. He chose to accompany me the rest of the way to Oakham Mount and part way back to Longbourn. I cannot imagine his motive as I assured him I am perfectly comfortable walking alone and he scarcely spoke during the entire hour I spent with him. Perhaps I am not the only scientist hereabouts and he wished to observe a strange creature in her natural habitat.

In family news, Papa has been acting rather strangely. I have told you before how he reduced all our pin money, to the ongoing consternation of Mama, Kitty and Lydia. Now he has taken to inviting Mary to his library to discuss books. I am pleased for her, as she always tries so hard to impress him and seems quite happy with this turn of events, but I wonder what induced him to start. He furthermore has been spending much more time with the tenants. When I asked, he told me he is planning some changes to the crops for next season and may possibly have a scheme for that swampy field along the border with Haye Park.

Do not misunderstand me, for I am glad he is making more effort with the family and estate, but it is simply out of character for him!

That is all my news for this week. As always I miss you dearly.

With love,

Elizabeth

Fitzwilliam Darcy dismounted his horse and paused to enjoy the view.

He was close to the top of Oakham Mount and there, on her rock, sat Miss Elizabeth Bennet, who had not yet noticed his approach.

Darcy had found little to admire in the Meryton society since his arrival several weeks earlier. The rest of his household seemed quite taken with the Churchills, who in his opinion were all rather dull despite being the only local family with any connections or fortune. The Bennet family was not especially noticed either way by Bingley or his sisters; Darcy appeared to be the only one to pay any sort of attention to them when they all were in company. Specifically, he paid attention to Miss Bennet, whom he believed was far lovelier than Miss Churchill, and whose conversations were witty and insightful from what he could overhear.

He told himself she was merely the most interesting person in the area, and he was only watching her for lack of better options. Still, he was very willing to dance with her at Sir William's instigation. He certainly would not tip off any of the Bingley family as to his interest. He preferred not to risk his friend transferring his fickle attentions to this clearly superior woman, nor cause his sisters to direct their snide remarks at her and her family.

The first time he walked with Miss Bennet, several days before, he had come across her quite by chance. He pushed down his unreasonably strong feelings of delight at finding her here on his second time venturing this way, and he walked the last stretch to the top.

"Good morning, Miss Bennet."

She turned her head in surprise at once again meeting Mr Darcy.

"Good morning, sir," she said as she stood to curtsey.

"Please, stay seated," he told her; "I do not wish to disturb your comfortable position." He peered down at her book. "What are you reading today?"

"The Divine Comedy, by Dante Alighieri, though translated into English."

"Do you not know Italian?" he asked, surprised. He was certain she was intelligent enough to learn. Had she not had a governess or a master to teach her?

"I do not," she replied somewhat warily. "I lost ambition after learning French. I have no aptitude for languages."

"That is a pity. The Divine Comedy is hardly worth reading if not in the original Italian. No translation could ever do justice to the rhythm of the poetry or the vivid descriptions."

"Miss Churchill often teases me for not acquiring all the typical accomplishments of a society lady such as a thorough knowledge of the modern languages. But should I be deprived of all the classics outside of Shakespeare or Milton, simply due to my education?"

"Not at all," he attempted to placate. "I was merely surprised by your lack of knowledge in this area. I do not think you unaccomplished."

I am certain you do , she thought. But it was no matter. She wondered if he expected her to continue conversing with him or if she could return to her reading yet.

"Do you also enjoy Shakespeare?" he asked.

It was to be more conversation, then.

"I do, as all proper lovers of literature ought," she teased. "Milton, on the other hand, I do not care to read again. I am not enamoured of his notion that the fall from grace was all Eve's fault."

"I completely agree," he replied. "Then we shall not discuss Paradise Lost . What is your favourite play by the Bard?"

They continued talking of books until it was time for Elizabeth to return home. He once again walked her part of the way before remounting his horse at the road to Netherfield and riding home.

As he rode, he reflected on the morning with satisfaction. He had made more effort to speak with Miss Bennet this time and was quite pleased with the results. She was well-read and had interesting opinions. His trip to Hertfordshire was certainly becoming more enjoyable than it had been, and right under the Bingley family's noses.

He wondered if she would be there again on the morrow—no, that was too soon; he would wait two or three days more before returning. It would not do to give her the wrong idea of his intentions.

Charles Bingley handed Olivia Churchill into his carriage and waved a cheerful goodbye as it drove her home one morning. She had come to dine the day before at his sisters' invitation and rain had forced her to stay the night at Netherfield.

He entered the parlour where his sisters, Caroline and Louisa, sat. 

"Miss Churchill is delightful, is she not?" he smiled.

"Oh, certainly," said Caroline. "We are quite pleased for you. This would be an excellent match!"

"I think so, too. She truly is as beautiful as an angel, and she seems so interested in everything I say."

"How could she not be? And of course, with her uncle a Baronet who even provided her with a good dowry, she is eminently suitable. Think of the events in town we will have access to with titled relations!" 

Bingley frowned. "Well, I do not care so much about that . I am looking for a partner in life, someone to love."

"Oh, that does not matter," Louisa interjected. 

Caroline glared at her when their brother looked affronted.

"I mean," Louisa hastened to add, "it does not matter to many couples. I am so glad you have found love, dear Charles."

"Are you certain she loves me?" He sat in thought for a minute. "I admit I do not know so very much about her, like her interests and her opinions on serious subjects. It now occurs to me that I do most of the talking when we are together."

"I am certain she does," replied Caroline. "Women can tell these things, you know. You are simply too modest to notice how she smiles when you are near."

"She does?—Yes, I suppose you must be correct. She did seem pleased to stay the night last night. And she always seeks out my company."

"You see," Louisa said. "You two are falling in love charmingly. I believe it will be settled between you in no time, to everyone's satisfaction."

"Yes," Bingley smiled. "Quite so. Thank you for your reassurance; you are good sisters."

Jane finished reading her sister's latest letter and smiled. She wondered if Elizabeth even realised how much she wrote about Mr Darcy.

This time, it was about how he had managed to accidentally—Jane snickered at Lizzy's use of that word—come across her on her walks several times. Apparently, he speaks with her comfortably enough at Oakham Mount, though they argue as often as they agree, yet he barely acknowledges her in wider company.

To Jane's mind, this Mr Darcy appeared a cautious sort of suitor who quite understandably wanted to escape Mrs Bennet's notice for as long as possible. He surely would not seek her out on walks if he were not interested. 

She was less certain about her sister's feelings about the gentleman. Elizabeth wrote in quite indifferent terms of him, yet it was belied by the sheer frequency of references. Besides, Lizzy had many paths she enjoyed walking, so if his accompaniment were irksome she surely could easily avoid him. Yet she appeared surprised at his continually turning up!

Jane considered questioning her sister directly. Perhaps Lizzy was confused and writing more explicitly about her feelings could help her gain clarity. But she would be unable to reply to this letter until at least tomorrow, because—

"Jane, it is time to depart for Rosings!" said Mr Collins as he burst into her sitting room. 

She covered Elizabeth's letter, stood and smiled at her husband. "I am ready, William."

He gave her an adoring smile as he stopped to take her in. "You look beautiful as always, dearest," he said as he kissed her hand. "Now let us make haste, for we cannot make Lady Catherine wait!"

During their walks over he always found some splendid aspect of Rosings to describe to her, and this time was no exception. He discussed the superior arrangement of the rose garden, and Jane agreed it was lovely, for roses were a particular favourite of hers.

"When we move into Longbourn I will ensure a rose garden is added for you, Jane. Of course it will be nothing to the one here at Rosings, for Longbourn is not nearly so grand, and Hertfordshire is not known as 'the garden of England' as Kent is. But surely we can create something that pleases you."

Jane frowned a little at her husband's eagerness to take over Longbourn; this was nowhere near his first reference to that eventuality. However, she appreciated his thoughtfulness in looking for ways to make her happy. He really did care about her, to the best of his limited ability.

"I should like to have my own rose garden someday," was all the reply she gave him.

Jane found her mind drifting during tea while Lady Catherine expounded on some subject or other. She was suddenly brought back to the present, however, when the name Darcy reached her ears.

"Excuse me, my lady," Jane said cautiously; "did you say Mr Darcy?"

"Yes, my nephew Darcy. His own estate is in Derbyshire, and of course he spends most of his time at Pemberley and London; although, right now I believe he is off visiting that friend of his, the tradesman's son. Anyway, as I was saying, when he marries Anne you two shall have to split your time more evenly between Pemberley and Rosings, for I could not bear to have you so far away all the time, Anne, especially once I have grandchildren."

"Please forgive me, Miss de Bourgh, for I did not know you were engaged. I congratulate you. May I ask when the wedding will be?" Jane managed to question without losing her serene demeanour.

As usual, Lady Catherine answered on her daughter's behalf. "Oh, Darcy is taking his time coming to the point, and nothing is yet official," she waved her hand. "I am hopeful things will be finalised during his next trip here. After all, this match was his mother's dearest wish."

Jane barely heard another word spoken during the visit, and excused herself to her own chamber the moment they returned home. Mr Darcy of Pemberley, who was staying with a friend, and important enough to have a relation such as Lady Catherine: that was all in keeping with what she had heard from Elizabeth. She could not contain her shock and alarm and she paced the room in agitation. Much as she disliked thinking poorly of someone, there was only one conclusion she could draw.

If it was the same man, Mr Darcy was practically engaged, yet secretly pursuing her poor sister! Suddenly it became perfectly clear why he was so willing to interact with her in private but not in public. He was not trying to avoid Mrs Bennet's raptures; he was avoiding anyone finding out, any way his perfidy could reach Lady Catherine's ears. His intentions towards Elizabeth could not be honourable. 

She must write and warn her sister immediately!

Chapter Text

Mr and Miss Bingley called on the Churchills' home of Ashworth, as they often did. On this trip they personally issued an invitation to the ball they would be hosting at Netherfield the following Tuesday. The family were delighted by the announcement, and Bingley was particularly pleased to note the happy smile Olivia gave him.

As they rode their carriage home, Caroline asked her brother, "When do you plan on proposing to Miss Churchill? I believe proposing at the ball would be absolutely marvelous; you would be able to make the announcement that same night."

"Hmm, I am not certain that is a good idea," Bingley replied doubtfully. "I do not know if she would appreciate making such a spectacle. And how humiliating would it be if she refused me! It would quite ruin my night. No, I believe I shall wait a while longer, until at least Christmas."

"She certainly shall not refuse you, Charles. Surely you need not wait so long to ask!"

Bingley reflected for a few minutes while they drove. 

"I simply am not ready, Caroline. You need not fear that it will never happen. I just do not think the ball is the right time."

Caroline decided not to press him; she would get what she wanted soon enough.

"Very well," she said. "You know best."

Elizabeth read and reread the letter she had received from Jane earlier that day. She knew she should prepare for her aunt Phillips's card party that evening, but she could not resist reading it one more time.

Just that morning she had walked with Mr Darcy again. If she were honest with herself, she was beginning to enjoy his company, though it had confused her as to why he did not approach her much to talk in company. Now she understood, and she was surprisingly distraught by the intelligence. Mostly, however, she was angry.

The ladies' maid she shared with her sisters knocked and entered her chamber, so she put away the letter and focused on getting her dress and hair done.

The maid left, and she thought about the handsome new officer she had met in the street the day before. Her father had curbed Kitty and Lydia's socialising with officers in the militia that had recently been stationed in Meryton, but he allowed them to speak in public spaces as long as Elizabeth or an older relative were present. The three sisters had just been introduced to Mr Wickham by his compatriot, Mr Denny, when they chanced upon Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy who were running errands in town. The pair did not stop to talk more than bare greetings, but Elizabeth was caught by the cold manner in which Wickham and Darcy acknowledged each other before Darcy and Bingley rode away.

She was exceedingly curious to know the history between the two men, but Darcy had not brought the subject up on their walk that morning, and she could not properly ask. Now that she would be seeing Wickham that night at her aunt's house she hoped he would be more forthcoming. Perhaps he would elucidate Darcy's character enough to confirm whether he could dishonour a promise to a woman by trifling with another.

Wickham looked around the Phillips's parlour as he entered with his host and a few fellow officers. He was pleased to see the three lovely Bennet ladies he had met the day before, along with what appeared to be a fourth sister and a handful of other young ladies.

One lady in particular, the eldest Miss Bennet, had caught his eye when they met as the prettiest of the bunch. The younger two were certainly more naïve, and he would see what he could get from them later, but he also liked a challenge and Miss Bennet seemed quite proper. Furthermore, he could not help noticing that she had observed his short interaction with Darcy. He could not tell the nature of their relationship, but the brevity of his stop with his friend hinted that they were not particularly close.

He settled into a seat next to Miss Bennet and spoke of general topics for a while. He should not appear too eager to bring up the subject he really wanted to talk about or she would become suspicious. He was uncertain whether she would fully believe what he planned to tell her about Darcy, given that the two were already acquainted, but he was well practised. She looked like someone who would be very sympathetic and so far she appeared to quite enjoy his company. He was hopeful.

"Have you known Mr Darcy long?" he finally asked.

She pursed her lips. "About a month, and as well as I ever care to know him."

Wickham barely prevented the wide grin that threatened to spread across his face. This would be too easy.

Darcy paced the ballroom, impatiently awaiting the Bennet family's arrival. 

He had not seen Elizabeth in nearly a week, and it was becoming more apparent by the day that he was growing dependent on her cheerful disposition and easy conversation. What a contrast she made to Caroline Bingley, whose attentions to him and disdain for the country were making him quite uncomfortable, especially after four days of rain trapped him indoors with her.

He knew his family expected him to marry his cousin Anne. He knew he should do it, as uniting Pemberley and Rosings would give him and his future generations vast wealth, and with it a corresponding influence, that should not be passed over. Yet he could not stomach the idea of Anne as his wife. She was sickly and weak; she never spoke or even looked at him. Could he even rely on her to bear children successfully? What a dreary life it would be!

And now Miss Bennet—Elizabeth, as she had become in his mind—had come along, and she was his idea of perfection. She had beauty, wit, and exuded an infectious liveliness that he desperately needed in his life. That Georgiana needed, too. 

His family would be furious if they knew what he was considering.

Even the Earl was beginning to press him on the issue, but he did not like to be told what to do and was under no formal obligation to Anne. Perhaps his interest in Elizabeth was partially rebellion against the family pressure, for he would not ordinarily consider her suitable. It was bad enough that Elizabeth was not the heiress to Rosings: she was the heiress to nothing. Furthermore, she had relations in trade and her family was not exactly ideal. Mrs Bennet, in particular, was loud and vulgar. The two youngest sisters appeared to be following in their mother's footsteps, despite their father's attempts to check them. Miss Mary was simply rather awkward, but the best of the lot after Elizabeth. Would the Bennet family be worse to bear than Lady Catherine as in-laws?

In-laws. Was he truly considering offering for Elizabeth after such a short acquaintance? 

At first he had only intended to make a friend who was intelligent and interesting. Since she was a woman, he kept it quiet to avoid Miss Bingley's jealousy, and to avoid the notice of the local gossips like Mrs Bennet herself. Now he knew he wanted more. He missed her too much after only six days. 

Starting tonight he would court her openly. She deserved every consideration and respect. He would ask her for the first set of dances; perhaps the supper set as well. That would surely get tongues wagging, but he wanted to make his intentions abundantly clear to her. He would begin calling on her at Longbourn, and withstand her mother's effusions, rather than skulking about in the woods looking for her.

He smiled brightly when he finally saw her enter the ballroom.

Until Elizabeth arrived at the ball and was unable to find him, it never occurred to her that Mr Wickham would not be there. She had fully intended to spend half the evening dancing with him.

First Mr Darcy denied him his inheritance, and now he has denied him an innocent evening of entertainment, she thought angrily. Out of the corner of her eye she saw the object of her resentment begin to cross the room towards her. She pretended not to see him and quickly approached her friends, Charlotte and John Lucas, who were standing together nearby.

"John, you must dance the first set with me," she hissed. "There is someone I wish to avoid."

He looked confused, but agreed. It was not the first time he had performed such an office for her.

She was now happy her mother had made the entire family late, despite the frustration she had experienced while waiting, as she could now escape directly to the dance floor with her partner. 

When that dance ended she immediately secured another, this time with an officer, then managed to do it again for the third set, and even the fourth. Mr Darcy thinks I am a fool who would do whatever he asked while he is promised to another. She smirked to herself and watched in her peripheral vision as he followed her around between dances, continually thwarted. Who is the fool now, she thought gleefully.

Darcy was growing desperate. Was she avoiding him on purpose? Did she not notice him trying to approach her?

Fortune smiled on him after supper when he finally had his chance to speak to her. "Miss Bennet, Miss Lucas," he bowed to Elizabeth and Charlotte who were seated together. "Miss Bennet, may I have the honour of dancing the next with you?"

"I thank you, Mr Darcy, but I am quite fatigued," she said sweetly. "I intend to sit out dancing for the rest of the evening."

"Very well," he answered without giving way to his frustration; "may I bring either of you ladies some refreshments?"

"No, thank you. I only wish to talk with my friend."

Darcy could take a hint. He bowed stiffly and walked away, dejected, as the two ladies leaned in and whispered rapidly together.

What had happened? She had been the same as ever the last time he saw her, which was Wednesday morning at Oakham Mount. She had taken his arm for the descent—quite eagerly, if he was not imagining things. It had rained from Friday until this morning, preventing calls and walks on those days. What could have occurred on Wednesday or Thursday to turn her against him?

Wickham!

He walked the outskirts of the ballroom to try to discreetly work off some of his anger. It could only be that snake; he had known the moment he had seen him in Meryton that the man would cause trouble for him again. 

Growing up coddled by his godfather was not enough. Receiving three thousand pounds in lieu of a living he was not fit to hold was not enough. Wickham always wanted more. He wanted the living as soon as he had squandered his inheritance. When that did not happen he wanted Georgiana's dowry and attempted to elope with her. When that scheme was foiled, he suddenly turned up in Meryton of all places to poison the woman Darcy was falling in love with against him.

Darcy continued to pace the room, struggling to maintain a calm outward façade while seething on the inside.

He would explain to Elizabeth. He would leave her be for the rest of this evening, then he would wait at Oakham Mount every day until she came, and he would tell her everything. No: even better, he would call on her at Longbourn the next day and offer to explain to her and her father in the study. He would need to be scrupulously proper to prove his good character to her.

Courting her may take more time than he had anticipated, but he was more certain than ever that he wanted her for his own. As frustrating as this setback was, he rather admired that she was willing to shun a man of his consequence when convinced of his poor character. She was principled and he would show her that he was too. All he needed was time and patience, both of which he had in abundance.

"Miss Churchill, it is time for our dance."

Bingley smiled widely as Olivia took his proffered hand and he led them to the dance floor. It was their second set of the evening, as they had opened the ball together.

"What a magical night," she sighed. 

"I hope everything is to your liking. I did not know what your favourite flower was so we ordered roses for the centrepieces."

"The ballroom is beautifully decorated. You mean you were worried about my approval when you and your sister were planning this event?" She fluttered her eyelashes at him, while glancing around to evaluate the total cost of the decorations.

"Certainly!" he replied. "Of course I spared no expense. I mean to make a good impression, after all." 

"All those bouquets of roses, that is rather extravagant! And the orchestra can only be from London as it is much higher quality than I am accustomed to hearing here. I hope to spend much more time in town in the future," she said with a meaningful look.

"I have grown quite fond of the country these two months," he said cheerfully. "I believe I might be interested in purchasing Netherfield."

Seeing her crestfallen expression, he hastened to add, "But I am happy wherever I go, whether the country or city. I only wish I could manage to purchase homes in both places instead of having to choose."

"I am certain you will make the right choice," she smiled. I will simply nudge him into choosing to buy me a townhouse in London, she thought to herself.

Bingley was happy. Miss Churchill was particularly lovely this evening, pleased with his efforts for the ball, and hinting at their future together. He was certain they would share many years of felicity.

Chapter Text

"Papa," said Elizabeth, "may I ask you something?"

Mr Bennet smiled at his daughter. "You have been squirming and pretending to read for half-an-hour. I have been waiting for you to ask me something."

Elizabeth chuckled at her father's perception, then grew serious again. "What do you think of Mr Darcy?"

"Oh." Mr Bennet had not expected that, and he thought for a moment. "I do not know the gentleman well, for he hardly speaks that I have seen. He seems a serious, steady sort of man, very private about his personal matters. He has a large estate and much responsibility, and I expect he discharges his duties much more faithfully than I."

He peered at her over his spectacles. "What is this about? Is my little Lizzy interested in him?"

"No!" she exclaimed, blushing. "Or, rather—yes, in that I am curious about him. I am having trouble making out his character."

"What confuses you?"

"He has sometimes joined me on my morning walks."

Mr Bennet raised an eyebrow at that.

"I met him perhaps four or five times over a fortnight, before the rain and ball preparations kept me indoors for nearly a week. I had thought it a coincidence, since I walk every day and only saw him some of the time, but Jane believes he is meeting me on purpose. But then, he does not seek me out at parties. I was surprised he even asked me to dance last night."

"Has he done or said anything improper on these walks? Does he make you uncomfortable?"

"Never… yet. In fact, we have quite interesting conversations sometimes. What do you make of this behaviour?"

Her father thought about it. "You see how his friend Mr Bingley has singled out Miss Churchill from the start, and makes no secret of his preference. By this time your mother and her friends all expect them to marry, is that not so?"

"Yes, but what has that to do with Mr Darcy?"

"Well, Mr Darcy has likely noticed these expectations too. As I said, I believe he highly values his privacy. Perhaps he wants to get to know you better without being subject to gossip as his friend is. However, if this goes on any longer, I would expect him to make a decision to either pursue you seriously and talk to me, or to stop meeting you altogether."

Elizabeth considered his words, and nodded. "That is rational, Papa, but there is something else. A week ago I received a letter from Jane stating that she learned Lady Catherine de Bourgh is his aunt, and she treats his upcoming engagement to his cousin Miss de Bourgh as a certainty. Apparently, it was planned between the two mothers many years ago. How does this change your perception of his behaviour towards me?"

Mr Bennet crossed his arms and looked at Elizabeth thoughtfully.

"That is serious indeed, Lizzy."

He thought some more.

"Tell me, how long into Mr Collins' visit did he and Jane become engaged?"

Elizabeth frowned. "I believe it was nine or ten days."

"And how long into his visit did your mother begin telling her friends that their upcoming engagement was a certainty, despite the fact that marriage was neither offered nor accepted?"

"I see your point," Elizabeth smiled. She paused for a moment. "Do you think it is the same thing here?"

"I cannot know either way," he said. "It is common for great families such as these to arrange marriages to consolidate wealth and power. It is certainly likely that the union was planned, but whether he is honour-bound to go through with it is less clear. I would expect him to marry her out of duty to his family, from what I have seen of him."

"Then what can he mean by walking with me and asking me to dance?" Elizabeth was no less confused than at the start of the conversation.

"There are three possibilities, in my mind. First, he may be considering courting you and have no intention to marry his cousin. Second, he may be only spending time with you innocently as a friend, but limiting interactions to keep from raising expectations of you and your mother—whether he is engaged or not. Third, he may be engaged and treating you dishonourably."

He rubbed his chin.

"I believe the third option is the least likely, mainly from my instincts about the man. However, regardless of his intentions, these unchaperoned walks must stop. Until he leaves the area you should keep close to the house or have one of your sisters with you. And if he gives even the slightest hint of impropriety you must tell me immediately, and I will speak with him."

Elizabeth nodded. "That is fair, Papa."

She looked at him again. "There is something else."

He raised his eyebrows. "What now?"

"I met an officer in the militia and we spoke at my aunt's last week. Mr Wickham told me he was the son of Mr Darcy's father's steward, and the father's godson, and that this Mr Darcy denied him the living his father had bequeathed him out of jealousy for being old Mr Darcy's favourite. Do you not think such a man is capable of sporting with one woman while engaged to another?"

Mr Bennet rubbed his chin again.

"The first question to ask is whether this Mr Wickham is telling you the whole truth."

"He certainly looked and sounded truthful. He did not rush to tell me the story, but rather it grew naturally from our conversation. And besides, how could he benefit by lying?"

Mr Bennet gave a wry smile. "He likely has learned that he can gain a lot from a sympathetic young lady, whether his story is true or not. In fact, I want you to be as cautious around him as you will be with Mr Darcy. I do not like the fact that he hurried to tell you all about his personal business the moment you met."

"It did not feel contrived or planned," Elizabeth objected. "I saw him encounter Mr Darcy in the street, then the next day he naturally asked me how long Mr Darcy had been in the area, and it all developed gradually from there."

"And did Mr Darcy tell you at his first opportunity any corresponding tale of how Mr Wickham had wronged him?"

"No, but does that not mean he has something to hide?"

"It means he is very private, as we have discussed, and that he knows it is more gentlemanly and proper not to malign another man in such a way. Now Lizzy, as with his alleged engagement, I do not know the truth. Perhaps he did deny the living to harm him. Perhaps he denied it for a valid reason. Perhaps the story was wholly invented by Mr Wickham for some reason of his own."

Elizabeth nodded and looked out the window, considering everything she had discussed with her father.

She had been angry the night before on realising Mr Wickham was absent, and was now ashamed of her behaviour in the cold light of morning. Charlotte, always so rational, had questioned her hostility when she sent Mr Darcy away. Mr Darcy always seemed so honest, and seemed to genuinely like her, and she wanted to think better of him. Yet the unrelated stories from Jane and Wickham painted too similar a picture of his character for her to dismiss them both. She also remembered his rudeness at the assembly in Meryton at the beginning of his stay.

On the other hand, Mr Wickham had told her he would not avoid Darcy as he had done nothing wrong, yet he had missed the ball only days later. What did that say about his integrity?

Could Jane have been incorrect the first time she ever thought ill of someone?

As she watched out the window, her father watched her.

"Lizzy, I want you to marry well. Jane deserved better than Mr Collins, and I would have allowed her to refuse him, but she made the choice to act for her family's benefit instead of her own happiness. I want better for the rest of you. I am trying to save to improve your dowries, and I am keeping a closer eye on your younger sisters. Jane taught me a hard lesson on the consequences of my negligence.

"I will tell you what I told Kitty and Lydia: an officer ranking below a colonel does not have the means to support a wife, especially not a gentlewoman accustomed to comfort, as you are. Mr Darcy would be an excellent match, if he is honourable, and if you are inclined towards him. Mr Wickham seems to have caught your fancy, but he is not a possibility."

"It is not like that, Papa," Elizabeth said, blushing. "I am concerned about his misfortune, that is all. And wondering how Mr Darcy's actions towards him correlate with his actions with me."

"Very well," he replied. "Just remember, the only facts we know for certain are that Lady Catherine wants him to marry her daughter, and that Mr Wickham wants to sink his character with you. You would be wise to comport yourself as though both parties are speaking the truth about him while privately maintaining a healthy skepticism. I will not speak to Mr Darcy about you, as he has not done anything improper yet, but I will if it becomes necessary."

"Thank you, Papa. I confess that after receiving the intelligence from Jane and Mr Wickham within hours of each other last week, I believed every word from them both. I am afraid I was quite rude to Mr Darcy last night."

In truth, the image of Mr Darcy's wounded expression when she refused to dance with him had haunted her dreams last night. That, more than Charlotte's admonishment, was the reason she had decided to approach her father today for advice instead of continuing to nurture her resentment.

"If he truly is interested in you he will explain himself—preferably by calling on you here, not out in the woods."

"Mr Bennet, Lizzy, what news!" Mrs Bennet cried as she fluttered into the room.

"You will never believe it. I have just been to see Mrs Churchill, as I was hoping to learn if Mr Bingley proposed to her daughter Olivia last night. But do you know what has happened?"

"I could not hazard a guess," Mr Bennet told his wife drily.

"Instead of proposing, Mr Bingley closed up Netherfield and ordered his entire household back to London this morning! They have already left town! Miss Churchill received a note from Miss Bingley who is quite cross with her brother, and who will attempt to bring him back as soon as she can. All of Ashworth manor is in an uproar!"

"That is exceedingly interesting." Mr Bennet looked at his daughter who heard it all in silent astonishment. "It seems your dilemma is moot now, Lizzy."

"What has this to do with Lizzy?" Mrs Bennet asked peevishly, and was out of the room in search of the other girls without waiting for a reply.

"So it seems," Elizabeth agreed, disappointment warring with relief.

What ill timing for Mr Darcy to leave as soon as she resolved to apologise for her behaviour at the ball and ask him about his cousin and Wickham! She wondered if she would ever see him again. She wondered if she even wanted to.

"Well, Mary, what are you and Papa reading this week?"

Elizabeth and Mary were walking to Oakham Mount one cool morning in mid-December. Although Mr Darcy had been gone for three weeks, Mr Bennet still preferred Elizabeth to walk with someone while the militia were in town. Elizabeth found she was enjoying Mary's company quite well; she certainly preferred her sister to being alone these days, when she would remember her walks with Mr Darcy. Three weeks later she still did not know what to think about that gentleman.

Mary smiled. "We just finished Homer's Iliad a few days ago, so I must read the first three chapters of The Odyssey today in preparation for tomorrow's discussion."

"I am so glad he is spending more time with you three," said Elizabeth. "He always thinks of things I completely miss when I read, so his company is informative in addition to being pleasant."

"I do not know what brought on this fit of attentive parenting, but I hope it lasts for some time." 

"He told me recently that he wants us all to have happier marriages than Jane. Perhaps assisting with our education is part of his plan. He mentioned improving our dowries as well, which explains his increased interest in the farming."

They walked quietly for a few minutes while Mary absorbed the information. "I do not believe Jane is unhappy, although it has always been difficult for me to discern how she feels. She seems content in her letters to me," said Mary.

"I agree she is satisfied with her lot in life, but she is not in love. I believe she and Papa both want us to marry for love. Papa will insist on a man in a respectable profession, if not a landed gentleman, but I do think he would rather we be poor and happy than rich and miserable."

"No doubt," agreed Mary.

She turned to look at Elizabeth. "Why were you and Papa discussing marriage? Do you have a beau that somehow escaped Mama's notice?"

"No," Elizabeth laughed. "I assure you there is no one in Hertfordshire today that I want to marry any more than there was a year ago."

"What about John Lucas?" Mary asked. "Did you not open the Netherfield ball with him? You dance with him often, I think."

Elizabeth shook her head. "He is too much like a brother. I would be happy if you married him, but I cannot do it myself."

Mary gave a low chuckle. "He is kind, and he is one of the only gentlemen who asks me to dance, but I am quite certain he would never consider me."

"Would you like him to consider you?" Elizabeth was surprised at the turn the conversation was taking, but would be pleased if Mary had her eye on someone.

Mary shrugged. "Truly, I have never thought about it much. I expect to be the last one to marry, if I ever do, but I do not mind."

"Well, if you do think you might want a little more attention at assemblies, please ask and I will be happy to help." She grinned and added, "Perhaps I will insist on assisting with your dress and hair at the one next month whether you wish it or not."

Mary smiled back at her. "I do not require it but I will allow it if you like. Thank you, Lizzy."

By this time they had reached the summit of the hill and paused to admire the view for a while on Elizabeth's favourite rock.

After some time Elizabeth resumed the conversation. "I have heard the Miss Churchills are going to London after Christmas to enjoy the season with their aunt and uncle."

"Indeed?"

"I cannot help wondering if they are going in pursuit of Mr Bingley. I still do not understand why he left! Not that I think it was the wrong decision on his part."

"I cannot say Netherfield's closure has had any impact on our lives. Their household did not mix much with ours."

Mary expected Elizabeth to have something caustic to say in reply, perhaps about the Superior Sisters as she sometimes referred to Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst, and was rather surprised at her silence.

She looked at her elder sister once again, as something occurred to her. "Though I seem to recall Mr Darcy looking at you frequently."

That got the reaction she expected. "He did not!" Elizabeth said rather emphatically.

"I noticed it on more than one occasion, but he never spoke much to you, so I thought it must be nothing."

Elizabeth pondered this. Was it true and she had not noticed at the time? A sudden memory came to her in which Charlotte hinted at the same thing.

"He did speak with me several times, actually—here on this rock."

She shrugged at Mary's surprised expression. "Jane says he is to marry his cousin, Lady Catherine de Bourgh's daughter. Likely he merely wanted a little companionship away from Miss Bingley. He returned to London readily enough."

And even if he is not marrying Anne de Bourgh, I certainly chased him off quite thoroughly, she thought with a touch of bitterness.

Mary heard the tone of her voice, and saw the look in her eyes, and decided there was much more to the story. Elizabeth did not offer any more details in the minutes that followed, however, so Mary opted not to press her—for now.

They stood and made the descent to Longbourn in silence, each woman lost in her own thoughts.

"Mrs Gardiner, I understand you hail from Derbyshire? That was my home as well," Wickham said one evening at Longbourn.

"Why, yes," the lady replied. "I spent some years living in Lambton."

"You must be joking! For I grew up at Pemberley, but five miles from Lambton."

"What a coincidence," Mrs Gardiner smiled. "I never met the Darcy family myself but of course they are well known in that town."

"The elder Mr Darcy was truly a great man. He was very kind to me." There was a note of wistfulness in Wickham's voice.

"Oh, but the younger Mr Darcy has been horrid to Mr Wickham!" Lydia cut in. "All of Meryton knows how he refused to give Mr Wickham his inheritance when his father died."

"I always knew that man was no good," Mrs Bennet sniffed. "He never gave any attention to our girls. He would walk about ignoring every one of us instead! I certainly do not miss his disdainful looks. And Miss Churchill is far better off without his friend, too."

Elizabeth felt embarrassed at her mother and sister maligning a man who was no longer present to defend himself—especially since they had had no particular opinion of the man while he was in residence. Furthermore, how did everyone know the story about the denied living? Wickham had told her he would not expose the son out of respect for the father.

"Your sister seems quite taken with Mr Wickham," Mrs Gardiner whispered to Elizabeth.

It was true. Whenever the Gardiners came for Christmas Mrs Bennet made a point to provide constant entertainment for them. Mr Bennet did not allow his daughters to socialise with officers outside of broader company, so Lydia frequently reminded her mother to invite them to their home for these parties.

"She is taken with any man in a red coat," she replied to her aunt, "but Mr Wickham does appear to be a favourite. I am not so certain about him."

"Do you not believe what he claims about his own benefactor's son?" 

"I would like to hear Mr Darcy's side of the story before deciding. However, it seems unlikely he will ever return here."

"It does not sound like he is missed," Mrs Gardiner observed.

Elizabeth watched Wickham as her mother and youngest sister continued to disparage the man who had disappointed him. She did not miss the malicious smirk that he was unaware he was wearing.

"Charles," said Caroline Bingley, "I cannot believe I almost forgot to tell you. I received a note from Miss Churchill today: she and her sister are now in town for the season. Perhaps they will even appear at this ball we're attending tonight!"

Bingley scowled at his sister. "You know I have no interest in seeing her again. You may call on your friend if you wish, but please leave me out of your plans."

"I do not understand why you changed your mind so suddenly! One minute you are talking about when you shall propose, and the next you demand I close up the house."

"You do understand, for you have asked me many times. I have told you I want to marry for love. It became clear she did not love me as I did her, so I left. Perhaps I shall give up Netherfield altogether."

Bingley did not tell her everything he had been pondering in the seven weeks since his departure. After reviewing his entire acquaintance with Miss Olivia Churchill, and with the many other young ladies who had caught his attention for a short while, he was finally noticing some commonalities. The women were all very beautiful but very dull; he never learned anything substantial about their characters, yet neither had he been particularly concerned about learning more. His interest was only ever to a superficial level and he found he did not like that epiphany about himself.

"There is no need to take such drastic measures," Caroline said soothingly. "We shall enjoy a few months in town before deciding anything."

"Actually, Caroline, it is my choice, not our choice. However, I will agree not to act hastily for once."

A lovely young woman walked past them at that moment. She was wearing a high-quality silk gown in light blue, made in the latest fashion, and it suited her very well. Caroline saw her brother's gaze linger as the lady strolled.

"That is Lady Mary Blackwell," she whispered; "she is the daughter of an Earl, and only recently come out. I have met her brother once, so perhaps I can arrange an introduction for you?"

"No, thank you," Bingley replied. He was growing rather irritated with his sister's interference, and increasingly uncertain of her good intentions. "Really, Caroline, if you want to do something useful you should direct your attention to meeting gentlemen. I have all the time in the world; you , however, are now in your fifth season. You should marry this year before you risk being on the shelf."

Caroline huffed. "If Mr Darcy would just—"

"Forget Darcy!" he interrupted. "A man does not simply change his mind about a woman after six years' acquaintance. You must be realistic."

He looked around the ballroom.

"There are many gentlemen here who would make you an excellent match. I have been so focused on myself these last couple years that I have failed to do my job as your guardian by seeing you established. I will still meet and dance with young ladies but I am taking a break from chasing them for the time being. This season we will both focus on getting you married."

He espied an old acquaintance from Cambridge, whom he had not seen in several years. He pulled Caroline over to introduce them.

Dear Lizzy,

My letter today will be short, for there is never much news from Hunsford to share. I do love writing to you, and all our family, even if I have not much to say. It helps me feel close to you all. Can you believe it has already been nearly five months since I married Mr Collins?

We have been invited to Rosings more frequently this month than we had been in prior months. I suspect it is due to the weather; now that the winter has set in nobody can spend much time out of doors, and we all long for company. 

I managed to have a short conversation with Miss de Bourgh about the weather, which is unusual because she rarely speaks. She said her fingers and knees ache in the cold. I cannot imagine being in such ill health at such a young age, for she is hardly older than I am. I pray for her nightly and remember to thank the Lord for the blessings in my life, having my health, a loving family, a kind husband and a comfortable home. All I could wish for is a child but I know that will happen in time if it is meant to be.

By the time you read this you should have attended the next assembly. Please do tell me all about it as you did the last. Although this one would not have had any unusual visitors, I must know how well Mary looked with your influence. I am exceedingly pleased that you two have bonded. She writes to me often and is pleased with you too.

I look forward to your next letter, as always.

Yours,

Jane

Elizabeth and Mary walked together on the road to Meryton, with Kitty and Lydia a short distance ahead. It was the end of January, but despite the cold weather the four sisters wanted a trip to town after rain had kept them indoors for several days.

"You were successful at the assembly the other night," said Elizabeth. 

As usual, the Lucas ladies had come to Longbourn the day after to discuss it all, but this was the first opportunity for the two sisters to speak alone.

"I confess it was more enjoyable to dance than to sit to the side with a book," replied Mary. "I believe spending more time with you and Papa these past months did as much as the dress and hairstyle you gave me. I felt quite more confident than normal."

"And it showed," Elizabeth said warmly. "Many young men were looking twice when they previously had not noticed you at all. I am only sorry I neglected you before now."

Mary shook her head. "You and Jane had each other, and Kitty and Lydia have always been paired. It was natural for one sister to be left on her own."

"No, that is no excuse for me. But that shall happen no more—and not merely because Jane is far away."

Indeed, the two were becoming quite close, thanks in large part to walking together several times a week. Over time Mary had extracted the entire story about Mr Darcy, and Elizabeth had found herself relieved to have another woman who was willing to retrod worn paths in the history. Like Elizabeth, after repeatedly analysing the whole of it Mary could only conclude that Mr Darcy must be repulsed and would not return, even if he had been interested before. Additionally, they both were increasingly skeptical of Wickham's claims the more they saw of that man and his overly blithe charm.

By this time, though, Elizabeth had quite tired of thinking and speaking of the whole sorry affair, which made it all the more irksome when Mr Wickham's presence reminded her of it—a circumstance that occurred all too often.

"Did my eyes deceive me or did you dance with John Lucas twice?" she asked her younger sister with a sly smile.

"I was never more surprised than when he asked for the second dance," she answered. "He is always kind, but at this assembly he was positively attentive. It is a wonder Mama did not notice."

"She did not pay any mind when he came with his mother and sisters yesterday, either," Elizabeth laughed. "Poor Mary! To be so ignored by our mother is unfortunate, yet it appears to be to your advantage at the moment."

"You must not get ahead of yourself. He has hardly declared himself; it was only a couple of dances. And I doubt he visited for my sake, when he comes half the time Charlotte does."

"Not even close to half; but we shall see in time if this is one of my flights of fancy merely due to my wanting him for a brother. But do you like him?"

Mary reflected for a minute. "I will not allow myself to think of him and risk disappointment. It is all so unlikely. But if he does somehow become interested, I would certainly be receptive."

The pair caught up with their younger sisters as they now all reached Meryton. After browsing in a couple of shops the four sat down together in the tea shop at a table next to the window.

"There is Mr Wickham!" Kitty exclaimed.

"Mr Wickham, will you not join us?" Lydia opened the window enough to call out. He turned at the sound of her voice and, seeing so many ladies together, smiled and crossed the street towards them.

"Lydia, really, you must have some decorum!" Elizabeth hissed. "You cannot holler after gentlemen like this."

"But it got him to come," Lydia grinned, and they all stood to greet Wickham who entered just then.

"Any Bennet sister is always a welcome sight, but all four together is an absolute treat," he said smoothly. 

The conversation that followed was primarily carried on between Wickham and Lydia, punctuated by frequent giggles from Kitty. Elizabeth and Mary contributed little.

At last it was time for the young women to return to Longbourn. When the proprietor of the shop came, Wickham made a show of insisting on paying for everyone's tea.

Mr Smith frowned. "Sir, I am not certain it is wise for you to add to your account. You already owe me a great deal."

"I will receive my next wages in a week's time," Wickham countered. "You have my word I will settle my account then."

"You have told me that before, yet the money never came."

Wickham frowned and looked around. The ladies all politely pretended not to listen as their friend was embarrassed.

"Can you deny me the pleasure of treating such a charming group of young ladies to tea? Come, sir, it is only a shilling."

Mr Smith sighed. "Very well, Mr Wickham, but this will be the last time I extend you credit until you have settled your bill."

"You can trust me," Wickham said with his most disarming smile.

Elizabeth and Mary looked at each other and knew they were each thinking the same thing.

As the group walked home, thankfully without Wickham's escort, Kitty and Lydia loudly discussed how rude Mr Smith was to the dear man who only sought to be generous. 

"Papa, do you have a few minutes to talk?"

Elizabeth waited at the door to her father's study for his welcome. He bid her enter and she sat in her usual chair.

"How may I help you, my dear?" he asked.

"I have some alarming news about Mr Wickham," she replied. "Mary and I became suspicious when Mr Smith hesitated to extend him credit at the tea shop yesterday. We returned today for more information and it appears Mr Wickham owes him many times more money than any other officer, and he is the only one who has never yet paid to settle his account, while the rest pay at least monthly."

"Hmm," Mr Bennet said. She had his attention.

"We went to some other shops and it was the same story everywhere. Mr Wickham seems to be running up a great deal of debt in Meryton."

"Is it certain that he will never pay? The militia will remain here for several months yet."

"No one was alarmed, but perhaps they do not know that this is widespread. He has never paid a single farthing to any of them, so I am concerned he never will, and it will be difficult for them to collect once the regiment moves away."

"And what shall I do about this, Lizzy?" Her father was rather concerned as well, but did not feel Wickham was at all his responsibility. It was not as though he would pay for the fellow.

"I do not know," Elizabeth admitted, "but surely, as a leader in the community, it is your duty to do something?"

Mr Bennet rubbed his chin.

"He is under the purview of Colonel Forster," he said, "so perhaps I could pay the Colonel a visit and ask him to keep a closer eye on Mr Wickham, indeed on all his officers. They cannot be allowed to ruin tradesmen in every town they pass through."

"I would like that very much," Elizabeth said as she stood and kissed his forehead. "Thank you, Papa."

She traipsed out of the room and Mr Bennet sighed. He did not want to get involved. However, Elizabeth had a point. He was supposed to be a leader, whether he liked it or not, and he had resolved after Jane's marriage to work harder for his family's sake. If Wickham was negligent in paying his bills, who knew what else he may be up to? 

He heaved himself out of his chair and towards the stables, determined to speak to Colonel Forster right away.

Chapter Text

"Miss Bennet, how are you enjoying Kent so far?"

Elizabeth had arrived at the parsonage in Hunsford several days prior. Her reunion with Jane was joyous and tearful. They spent as much time together as they could, while Jane was not off performing her duties as mistress of her home or as the parson's wife, but Elizabeth knew it would be a matter of time before they were summoned to Rosings. Indeed, after all she had heard about Lady Catherine de Bourgh, she was quite excited to meet her, and so far during this dinner the great lady did not disappoint.

"The country is beautiful, my lady, but the best part is seeing my dear sister again."

"That is why girls must not get too attached growing up," Lady Catherine explained. "Sisters will each marry and go their separate ways. It is the way of our world."

"I do not believe an annual visit is excessive attachment," replied Elizabeth.

Lady Catherine raised her eyebrows at being contradicted in such a way. Mrs Collins always agreed with her on such matters.

"And I understand, Miss Bennet, that you have three younger sisters at home, and all of them are out?"

Elizabeth was delighted. She knew this was one of Lady Catherine's favourite subjects about which to question Jane.

"Yes, ma'am. My sister Mary and I are quite inseparable these days. It is great fun preparing for parties and assemblies together. Sometimes all four of us ready ourselves in one room where we can assist each other more easily."

Lady Catherine scowled. "Younger sisters should not be out before the older ones have married. What if a gentleman chooses one of them before you?"

"You are correct, ma'am, that does occasionally occur. In fact, Mary has a suitor whom I have known for as many years as she."

"What?" Lady Catherine thundered. She turned her imperious gaze on Jane. "Mrs Collins, why did you not tell me about your sister's suitor?"

"Pardon me, my lady," Jane replied. "It is a very recent development."

"And who is the young man?"

"Mr John Lucas is the eldest son of one of our neighbours. It would be quite a good match for her."

"And why did he choose your younger sister over you?" she asked Elizabeth.

"He is a dear friend of mine, but I believe they are better suited in disposition for marriage," Elizabeth replied.

"Compatibility in marriage is a myth, just a notion that fanciful young people hold. He should have chosen you. Have you any marital prospects?"

"Not at the moment, ma'am."

"Well," Lady Catherine huffed. "It is fortunate for you that your brother by marriage will inherit your father's estate if you remain a spinster."

Elizabeth smiled. "I am but twenty years old; I believe I am not a spinster quite yet."

Mr Collins, who had been waiting for an opportunity to enter the conversation, spoke up. "Sister Elizabeth, you have my assurance that you will be welcome to remain at Longbourn with your sister and myself when the sad day comes, if necessary."

"Thank you," she smiled at him.

Everyone enjoyed their dinner in blessed silence for a few minutes before Lady Catherine began her next assault.

"Miss Bennet, I understand Mr Collins will have much work to do once he inherits as your father is not running his estate with all possible efficiency. It has more potential for revenue than he is currently achieving. Is this so?"

"That was true in the past, Lady Catherine, but he is introducing crop rotation this year, and is working with a neighbour to repair an unusable field. He is hopeful that it will be ready for crops beginning next year. Longbourn should become more profitable starting at this year's harvest."

"That is good," Lady Catherine nodded. "If crop rotation is best then I assume we use that method here at Rosings. My nephew Darcy oversees the details on his annual visits. Rosings will be his one day, after all," she added, nodding at her daughter.

Elizabeth looked at Anne de Bourgh, who was as silent as Jane had told her to expect. Now that attention was drawn to her it was Elizabeth's first opportunity to take her measure. She truly was a sickly, cross little thing. Elizabeth thought she detected a slight glower on Anne at the reference to her marriage, and decided to attempt to draw more information.

"Miss de Bourgh, I have met your cousin, Mr Darcy, when he visited Hertfordshire last autumn. I understand you two are to marry?"

The glower deepened. "Perhaps," Anne said.

"Of course he will marry you, Anne," exclaimed her mother. "Your uncle and I both wish it. You wish it. It does not matter what he thinks. In fact," she turned her attention back to her guests, "he and his other cousin will arrive here in a fortnight. I intend to have it all formalised on this trip."

Elizabeth barely refrained from reacting. It would not do to have Lady Catherine believe she had more than a passing interest in her nephew. But she would see him again soon, and here of all places! She was unprepared for such startling information.

"How coincidental," she said calmly. "I am happy I will be here to wish you joy if such an event comes to pass."

"It will," said Lady Catherine. "Mark my words, Darcy will not leave Kent without proposing marriage this time."

By tacit agreement, Elizabeth and Jane did not discuss the dinner at Rosings until they were safely ensconced in Elizabeth's chamber where no one would overhear them. As soon as she shut the door, Elizabeth burst into laughter.

"Oh Lizzy," said Jane. "You are too much!"

"I am sorry if my comments about Mary embarrassed you," she replied. "I could not help myself. I wanted to see the true Lady Catherine in all her glory."

"I believe she does not know what to make of you," Jane laughed. "But it does not seem so certain as it did before, about Mr Darcy marrying Miss de Bourgh, does it?"

"Lady Catherine could not be more certain, but the prospective bride did not show much enthusiasm for the subject," Elizabeth said. "If Emma Churchill was not handsome enough for him to dance with, then Anne de Bourgh certainly is not handsome enough for him to marry."

"Lizzy, that is not kind," Jane chided.

"She is five and twenty but he has not yet proposed, and it sounds as though he will require coercion to do so. If he wanted to marry her, or even if he were to give in to pressure from his relations, it surely would have happened by now."

"It seems he was more available last autumn than I believed. I am dreadfully sorry for misleading you!"

"No, no," Elizabeth reassured her. "How could you not believe Lady Catherine? It was an honest mistake. Mr Wickham is the one who misled me."

"Is he truly so bad?" Jane asked. "Perhaps he was also confused in some way, like I was."

Elizabeth laughed. "Yes, dearest. Colonel Forster has been withholding his wages for months to repay all the merchants. He recently forbade him from leaving the barracks when off-duty after he was caught attempting to seduce the milliner's daughter. Rumour has it, if Mr Wickham has another infraction he will be flogged."

"That does not explain what happened with his inheritance…"

"Either Mr Wickham is lying about the inheritance, or Mr Darcy did withhold it based on his obvious character flaws. I can believe either circumstance, and in both cases I believe Mr Darcy is absolved of any wrongdoing here."

Jane sighed. "What an unfortunate misunderstanding. Do you suppose Mr Darcy will still be cross with you when he sees you here?"

"I do not know," Elizabeth frowned. "Aside from being rather rude at the first assembly, and not being as sociable as he perhaps could have been, he did nothing wrong, yet I treated him abominably the last time I ever saw him and he would not have known why."

"If you explain, I am certain he will forgive you and you can be friends again."

"I will apologise if I have the opportunity," Elizabeth agreed. "As to friendship, I will follow his lead. I may have been adequate company in Hertfordshire where he knew almost nobody, but here amongst his relations he likely will have no use for me."

"We will see in a fortnight, I suppose. I confess I am exceedingly curious to meet him."

The fortnight passed. Elizabeth took her usual morning walks and found a certain grove on Rosings' grounds that she particularly enjoyed. She and Jane spent many hours together in the back parlour, talking or writing letters or working on embroidery. She occasionally joined Jane for errands in Hunsford village, but rarely accompanied the married couple on visits to parishioners. Her sister's husband was not unkind, but she could only tolerate short periods of his company.

She found herself growing nervous as the date of Mr Darcy's scheduled arrival approached. Due to their prior acquaintance it was proper for him to call at the parsonage, but how many days would he put it off? When he did come, would he be aloof and cut the visit short, or would he be agreeable as she knew he could be?

The day finally came for Darcy and his cousin to come to Rosings, and Mr Collins waited at the end of the lane to be assured of the earliest intelligence of their arrival. As soon as they drove past he hurried home to inform his wife and her sister that they appeared in good health, and the next morning at the earliest proper hour he hastened to the great house to pay his respects.

The sisters were in Jane's sitting room while Mr Collins was making that call. Expecting his visit to last for some time they were astonished when the housekeeper entered to tell them the master was almost home, and was accompanied by two gentlemen.

"Well, Lizzy, I believe we have your answer. Mr Darcy certainly did not keep you in suspense for long."

"I cannot credit this! He must wish to get the call over with so that I may not bother him again."

Jane smiled at her in disbelief, and both women rose to greet their visitors.

Colonel Fitzwilliam entered first but Elizabeth scarcely noticed him. All she saw was Darcy, who was as handsome as she remembered and who smiled and approached her immediately.

"Miss Bennet, what a pleasure," he said warmly as he bowed.

"Likewise," she answered somewhat confusedly. "May I introduce you to my sister, Mrs Collins?"

All introductions were made, and everyone sat down while Jane rang for tea to be served.

"Mrs Collins, I have heard much about you," Mr Darcy said. "Your mother, in particular, is very proud of you. I am pleased to finally make your acquaintance."

"Thank you, sir," she blushed.

He did not say much for the rest of the visit, allowing Colonel Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth to carry the conversation, but neither did he wear the forbidding expression she had often seen on him in company. He even complimented Jane on her good taste in decorating her home. Elizabeth grew more confused by the minute. How could he not be angry with her?

After a half-hour the visitors rose to take their leave. As everyone began to make their way to the front entrance, Darcy gently held Elizabeth back in the parlour.

"Do you still walk in the mornings, Miss Bennet?" he asked her quietly.

She smiled at the implication that he wished to accompany her as he sometimes did in Hertfordshire, but then she remembered her father's words. Though she no longer believed him to be promised to his cousin, it did not mean he never would be and she should behave accordingly.

"I do, but we are available for visitors daily at this hour," she said.

He smiled and nodded and they joined the others. He bowed over both ladies' hands before departing.

"Lizzy," Jane said breathlessly once they were alone again, "you did not warn me he was so handsome. My goodness! And so charming!"

Elizabeth laughed heartily at her sister. "You did not ask!"

"What I would not give for someone to look at me the way he looked at you when he entered this room. I am certain he will be back tomorrow."

Elizabeth objected, but secretly was very pleased by his evident forgiveness. She looked forward to their next conversation, where hopefully they could clear up what remained of their misunderstandings. Perhaps they would be friends after all.

Mr Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam walked back to Rosings together after their call at the parsonage. Darcy showed no outward emotion, but he was extraordinarily happy.

The past four and a half months had been a trial. He left the Netherfield ball convinced of Elizabeth's dislike yet equally determined to win her. However, fate conspired against him. First, Bingley needed him in London; he could not refuse his friend in his heartbreak, and thought to return to Netherfield on his own after spending Christmas at Pemberley with Georgiana.

Then the winter was uncharacteristically harsh. Crisis after crisis kept him busy at Pemberley for months longer than he had anticipated. A tenant's roof caved in from snow; the river flooded during a thaw; ice made roads impassable for a spell; the river flooded again.

Time did not ease his desire to marry Elizabeth whatsoever, and in a way he was glad to have had that test to be certain of his feelings. The greater part of him, however, was wildly impatient to hasten back to Hertfordshire but by the time he was in a position to do so it was only three weeks until his scheduled visit to Kent. Resigned, he decided to make his way back to Elizabeth after this trip: a well-deserved reward after what was sure to be a trying experience here.

He could not believe his ears when Lady Catherine gave the name of her parson's houseguest.

Aware he may look too eager yet unable to stay away a single moment, he offered to accompany Mr Collins home to pay respects to his wife and sister. He could have leapt for joy when Elizabeth not only did not exude any of her hostility from the ball months before, but even looked pleased to see him, if a little embarrassed.

"Lovely pair of sisters, are they not?" Colonel Fitzwilliam interrupted his thoughts.

"Indeed," Darcy replied, "and there are three more who are also pretty. It is a handsome family."

"Mrs Collins' beauty will be fair compensation for the tedium of her husband's company," Fitzwilliam chuckled.

Darcy had noticed Mrs Collins was conventionally beautiful—who could not?—but personally he favoured Elizabeth's bold features, fine eyes, and curvaceous figure. It was just as well his cousin did not agree.

He thought through a plan for his two-week stay. He was under excessive pressure to offer for Anne, so obviously he could not raise Lady Catherine's ire by noticeably singling out Elizabeth here. She had invited him to return to the parsonage, though, and he could call on her there every couple of days without arousing suspicion, especially if he sometimes brought his cousin.

Eager as he was to advance his suit, he had already waited over four months. He could wait another fortnight before asking to court her formally.

Colonel Fitzwilliam was less sanguine than his cousin. 

It was not that he personally cared if Darcy married Anne. He loved him like a brother and wanted him to be happy. However, Lady Catherine, his parents the Earl and Countess of Matlock, and his brother the Viscount all depended on the match. Rosings needed a master and no one was better suited for the role than the man who was already de facto running it.

Darcy may have believed himself to be subtle but he was altogether too interested in this Miss Bennet: from jumping to attention at the first mention of her name, to rushing to the parsonage to see her, to complimenting her married sister. Fitzwilliam even believed he heard him ask if she would walk with him the next morning. He was uncertain what exactly were Darcy's intentions with this unknown country girl but he was concerned by what he saw so far. He decided to try to find them tomorrow and assess the danger.

To that end he walked out the next morning in the direction of the parsonage, checking any path he thought would be likely for them to take. He felt relieved when he came across Miss Bennet alone.

"Good morning," he said cheerfully as he approached.

She stopped and smiled. "Good morning, Colonel."

He made idle talk for a few minutes as they walked together. Eventually he felt it was a good time to bring up a more interesting subject.

"I believe you met my cousin Darcy through his friend Bingley," he said.

"Yes, Mr Bingley leased the neighbouring estate to ours and Mr Darcy was his guest for a couple of months. Do you know him?"

"Not well, but we have met several times. Actually, Darcy told me a story about him on our way here the other day."

"Oh?" Elizabeth waited with curiosity.

"It seems Darcy recently had to extricate him from an unsuitable attachment. He somehow came to learn that Bingley's young lady was mercenary, so he warned him away. Oh no,"—he affected surprised concern—"if he was your neighbour at the time, I hope the jilted lady was not a friend of yours?"

Elizabeth was shocked at the revelation.

"No," she said, for it was true. She and Miss Churchill were regularly in company due to the limited size of their neighbourhood, but they certainly were not friends.

They talked a few minutes more of Mr Bingley and then the Colonel took his leave, allowing Elizabeth to collect her thoughts.

So it was Mr Darcy who separated Mr Bingley from Miss Churchill? He did it because she was mercenary? How did he know? 

All of Hertfordshire knew that Mr Bingley was in love with her but that she was only interested in his fortune. However, the Netherfield household was not privy to the local gossip. With his wealth and her connections it would have been a good match on both sides, so nobody thought to intervene. People in the upper circles married for convenience all the time. 

It seemed Mr Darcy cared more about his friend. Despite it being a fair prospect for Mr Bingley to advance in society, he sought to protect his friend from a loveless marriage. Elizabeth could not help the warm feelings of admiration for Mr Darcy at this thought. He was a good man.

And was he truly interested in her? Last autumn he regularly met her for walks; he sought her out at the ball; he left her alone after she turned him away, yet he kept an eye on her the rest of the night. He could not very well stay at Netherfield without the house's master, so of course he left, but he came to see her at the parsonage immediately and planned to do so again. It appeared that he may be interested, however unbelievable it seemed for a man of his station to notice her.

Was she interested in him? She had absolved him of all misdeeds against Miss de Bourgh and Mr Wickham. He was a loyal friend to Mr Bingley. He was likely a responsible landowner and kind guardian to his much younger sister. She enjoyed her conversations with him and he certainly was attractive. Elizabeth knew she did not love him, and she was firm in her pledge to Jane not to marry unless she was well and truly in love, but for the first time in her life she felt that love was a possibility.

What she needed was time to get to know him better. He could call on her at the parsonage sometimes, they would take tea or dine at Rosings occasionally, and perhaps she would allow him to join her walks. At the end of her visit to Kent she would determine how she felt and what to do next.

With a lightness in her heart she skipped home to clean herself up. She hoped Mr Darcy would come see her today.

Darcy walked down the lane to the parsonage with a self-deprecating smile. He was already breaking his resolution to only call there every two to three days, but he could not stay away. Well, if he visited more often than he ought, so be it; he was not breaking the law.

He rejoiced at Elizabeth's warm smile of welcome. She had a glow about her that was not present yesterday. She was enchanting.

After five minutes of listening to Mr Collins's flattery while Mrs Collins and Elizabeth looked embarrassed, he decided to take matters into his own hands. 

"Miss Bennet, I see a pretty garden outside this window. Would you show it to me, if we stay close to the house?" He shifted his gaze from Elizabeth to her sister seeking both their consent.

"I would be happy to give you a tour, Mr Darcy," cried Mr Collins. "This garden is my personal little project, and now that it is spring again I am back out there for hours each day."

"Mr Collins, I believe you told me you had to work on your sermon," his wife said gently. "Why do we not allow Lizzy to show him as he asked."

Although he looked unhappy at losing time with his patroness' nephew, Mr Collins agreed to the scheme. Elizabeth put on her bonnet and pelisse and Darcy escorted her outside, where they sat together on a bench in view of the window.

"Miss Bennet, I feel I owe you an explanation," he began.

She shook her head. "I am the one who owes you. I must apologise for my behaviour the last time we met. I had recently been told some… unflattering gossip about you, and I should have allowed you to defend yourself before jumping to conclusions. I no longer believe any of it."

"Mr Wickham?"

She nodded.

"You say you no longer believe what he told you? That is rather surprising. He can be very convincing."

"My father helped me become skeptical about his story of a denied inheritance, and after that I watched him closely. When some unsavoury behaviour began to emerge I induced my father to warn Colonel Forster that he was making trouble in Meryton. He is now confined to his quarters except when working, under threat of flogging, so his Colonel appears to be serious in taking him in hand."

"I am exceedingly pleased to hear that," Darcy said. "Perhaps joining the militia was a fortuitous move. He will be disciplined instead of allowed to continue his dissolute ways, and desertion is a capital offense."

"There was another piece of information I had gained the same day as that conversation with Mr Wickham," Elizabeth said. "My sister Jane had been told by Lady Catherine that you were to marry Miss de Bourgh, and I hastily concluded that you had dishonourable intentions in walking with me. My father helped me doubt that claim as well, and since I came here and met your relations I became more certain that even if you were to marry her in the future, you were not already engaged last autumn."

"Miss Bennet," Darcy said seriously, turning to face her, "I am not engaged and never intend to marry my cousin. My family desires the match but I do not. I am a Darcy first and a Fitzwilliam second; the Earl cannot compel me to make a different choice than my own."

She nodded and looked away while blushing. She knew she looked too interested in his marital status but she was greatly reassured by his words.

"I have one more question," she changed the subject. "It is my understanding that you were involved in separating Mr Bingley and Miss Churchill after the ball."

He grew wary. Would she be angry with him for interfering with her neighbour's hopes?

"I overheard Miss Churchill speaking with her sister after supper that night. The ladies were laughing at Bingley, calling him a fool, and discussing all the things she would have him buy her once they married. I felt obliged to inform my friend, knowing he always wanted to marry for love. He immediately determined he would close the house and return to London."

He eyed her to gauge her reaction, and she smiled in reassurance.

"You were correct about her character," she told him. "Do not be alarmed; I am very pleased by your service to your friend."

He smiled in relief and relaxed. There: surely all their misunderstandings were cleared away. Now he was free to enjoy her company for a couple of weeks and then hopefully follow her back to Hertfordshire as her suitor.

"Now, Mr Darcy," she said with the twinkle in her eye that he loved, "onto more important matters. What have you been reading recently?"

A pleasant discussion followed. He teased her for the number of novels she confessed to reading over the winter, and she teased his snobbery in eschewing the enjoyment of some light reading.

A short while later a comfortable silence fell between them. Darcy marvelled again at how well their conversation had gone, especially the portion involving Wickham. He had been prepared to tell her the whole of his history with the scoundrel. That she would independently change her view of Wickham enough to suspect him and even act to protect her neighbourhood: what an incredible woman!

He looked at his watch and sighed. He had already run over the polite time for visiting. He dreaded the rest of the day. Even with the Colonel's support, the company of his aunt and Anne was impossibly tedious compared to the bewitching Elizabeth, but he knew he should take his leave.

He moved his gaze back to her and she was watching him expectantly, waiting for him to speak.

Not for the first time, he was struck by how beautiful she was in the sunlight. One time, in Hertfordshire, he had chanced upon her walking without her bonnet; that was a particularly good day. He wished she was not wearing her bonnet now. Actually, he wished all her hair was loose. He wondered what that would look like. Enchanting, most definitely.

Elizabeth cleared her throat and he snapped back into the present. She was now sporting a small amused smile.

Speak, you fool, he berated himself as she continued to wait. It is simple. Open your mouth and say to her, "It is time for me to return to Rosings; may I call again tomorrow?"

He opened his mouth and said to her, "Miss Bennet, will you marry me?"

Chapter Text

Elizabeth gasped. She was expecting Darcy to take his leave; this might have been the last thing she expected him to say!

She looked into the house through the window. Jane was calmly sewing, not looking at them, acting as though Elizabeth's life had not just turned upside down.

She looked back at Darcy. He was staring at her so earnestly she could not bear to meet his eyes again until she had something to say.

She looked at her hands. Unfortunately, the answer was not written across them.

After perhaps thirty seconds, which felt more like thirty minutes, she was ready to speak.

"Mr Darcy," she said shakily, "I thank you for your offer. It was most unexpected. I—I am afraid I am not ready to answer positively yet. I need more time to know you better before I can make such a commitment."

He leapt up and began pacing, agitated.

"You need more time?" he asked. "We have known each other for six months!"

"That is not fair; we have been apart for the past four, and I spent most of that time believing you were already or almost engaged."

"But now you know better. What is leaving you in doubt of my character? How must I convince you?"

Elizabeth felt her ire rising, and waited until she could answer calmly. "I have told you what I need, and that is to know you better. After all our misunderstandings I feel as though I only truly met you an hour ago."

Darcy looked hurt. It reminded her of when she had dismissed him at the ball at Netherfield and she felt a wave of pity. She decided to explain further.

"You likely do not know," she said gently, "but my father's estate is entailed to the male line. Mr Collins is the heir." She nodded towards the window. "Jane married him to protect my sisters and me from poverty when my father leaves us, and she asked me to promise to only marry for love. I will honour her sacrifice by keeping my promise. Do you understand?"

Darcy kept pacing. He had not planned on asking for her hand so soon, but the delay was only to keep the peace at Rosings. It never occurred to him that she would not say yes whenever he asked. He was upset, but he tried to understand her argument.

He stopped and faced her, where she was still seated on the bench. "I love you," he told her.

She smiled. "I am gratified to hear that, and I thank you. But… do you not want me to love you in return?"

He thought for a moment and nodded slowly. "I do," he said. "Very much."

She rose to stand with him. Glancing once more at the window, and seeing Jane's inattention, she tugged his arm to move them a short distance behind a tree for some privacy.

"I am not refusing you," she said, holding his hands. "This is the most important decision of my life and I need to be certain, that is all. I will not look for other suitors. There is only you. I am not ready for a formal engagement, but can we have a sort of informal understanding for now?"

He could not say no while she was holding his hands like this, standing so close like this. He reached up and stroked her cheek with his thumb. "I suppose I do not have a choice," he said with a small smile.

"I believe you are accustomed to having your own way," she teased, "but perhaps it is best for you to learn now that I can be equally strong-willed."

"And that is something I admire about you."

He hesitated, then decided to ask something else of her. "May I call you Elizabeth when we are in private? And will you call me Fitzwilliam? I have longed to hear you say my name."

"You may and I will," she said. "That is your Christian name? Did you not tell me only minutes ago that you are Darcy first and Fitzwilliam second? It appears to be quite the opposite." She arched her brow.

Darcy chuckled. "It is the opposite in name only, my dear."

Both smiled at the easy camaraderie they had regained.

"I should return to Rosings; I must be missed by now," Darcy said ruefully. "I must speak to your father, though otherwise we will keep our understanding to ourselves. Perhaps tomorrow I can journey to Longbourn?"

"That is fine, Fitzwilliam," Elizabeth replied. She found she did indeed enjoy such an intimate address, and from his expression she knew it made him happy as well.

They went inside where he bid farewell to the Collinses. As Elizabeth walked him to the front door, she told him, "I favour Rosings' east grove for my morning walks."

"Indeed?" he answered, completely expressionless. "How coincidental. I do as well."

He kissed her hand and departed.

Darcy joined Elizabeth walking the next morning. "Fancy meeting you here," she said, but he did not smile at her tease.

"Elizabeth, I am sorry," he said.

She looked up at him, confused, and took his arm. "Sorry about what?"

"I have had many hours to think over our conversation yesterday, and it became clear I did not respond as I ought to your explanation that you could not immediately accept me." He laid his free hand over hers. "I realise you might have refused me altogether after my thoughtless reaction. I knew you were upset with me when we last met in autumn, and that I had only just explained myself after months away, yet I truly never thought you would give me any other answer than yes. I apologise for my presumption."

She squeezed his arm in reassurance. "Thank you for your consideration now. I may have come close to anger once or twice yesterday, but it would have taken a far greater offense for me to refuse you. After all, your only crime was being eager to marry me. How could I fault that?"

He chuckled. "After pining for four long months, I believe 'eager' is rather an understatement. But I do understand your position now, and I will give you as much time as you need. Indeed, my respect for your sister has grown greatly after what you told me."

Elizabeth was very pleased. She knew his apology was not given with the aim to change her answer more positively, but rather it was a testament to his love and respect for her. It bode very well indeed for their marriage, and she began to think he likely would not need to wait long.

"Only Jane is patient enough to live with Mr Collins, and kind enough to focus on his good qualities. I believe she is a good influence on him, too, for he is less irritating than when I last saw him, if you can believe that. None of the rest of us could have been half so content here."

She raised an eyebrow mischievously and added, "Besides, if Mr Collins had not whisked her away mere weeks before your arrival to our neighbourhood, perhaps you would have favoured her instead, and then where would I be?"

"There is no chance," he smiled fondly. "I have had eyes only for you since the day we met."

"You certainly did a good job keeping it a secret before yesterday," she hinted.

He nodded. "I learned years ago to keep my opinions on young ladies to myself. If I asked someone to dance her mother would begin planning the wedding. It is worse here; if I so much as glance in Anne's direction Lady Catherine takes it as a sign of my impending proposal."

"She will be very angry with us when she finds out," Elizabeth bit her lip in consternation.

"You are correct. In fact, when you inevitably are invited to Rosings during my stay, I hope you will understand that I must not pay you any particular attention. Mr Collins's position is for life, so she cannot turn them out, but she may make things very difficult for them as your brother and sister. It is better for no one here to know for as long as possible."

He frowned. "I should think about what to do for them in that eventuality, actually."

"Perhaps you should wait until it is more certain it will be necessary?" Elizabeth chastised lightly. "I have given myself the possibility of ending this, if you recall."

He smiled at her sheepishly. "I do recall. I am sorry. I suppose I shall simply have to ensure you fall in love with me with all haste."

"That is one possibility," she replied. "Perhaps it would be more fun to keep you in suspense for as long as I can. I could call at Rosings daily and force you to ignore me for the remainder of this trip."

He glanced around and, seeing no gardeners or anyone else about, pulled Elizabeth off the path and against the back of a large tree. He deftly untied her bonnet, tossing it on the grass, and placed his hands against the tree on either side of her head. 

"And why would you do that, Elizabeth?" he asked her, eyes boring into hers.

"To tease you, of course," she answered pertly.

He leaned in close, so close their lips were but a hair's breadth from touching, without breaking eye contact. "Well," he whispered, "you are not the only one who knows how to tease."

Darcy knew what Elizabeth did not: that physical attraction brought a person a fair way towards falling in love. It was what pushed a relationship beyond friendship. He knew that if she was going to love him, she would have to want him, too.

A flush spread over Elizabeth's cheeks and down her neck as she reacted to his proximity. He did not move away. She could feel his breath on her face. She shivered as she realised he was close enough to kiss her. Was he going to kiss her?

She looked at his lips and back up to his eyes.

Her face felt even warmer when she realised she wanted him to kiss her. She was waiting for it, even. Was it bad that she wanted him to? Was he going to?

She looked at his lips again.

He pulled away from her with a wolfish grin. "Ah ah ah," he said as he wagged a finger at her. "There will be none of that until you say yes. Shame on you."

Still smirking, he watched as she turned away, replaced her bonnet, and hastened back to the path.

He caught up to her and put her hand back on his arm while she continued to blush violently.

As they walked he said, "You know, when we are married, I plan to forbid you from ever wearing a bonnet at Pemberley."

"Caroline, can we talk while we have a few minutes alone?"

Mr and Miss Bingley were both residing with the Hursts in London, but the married couple were out walking the garden together so Bingley decided to take his opportunity to speak with his younger sister.

"Of course. What do you need?"

"We agreed in January that you would find a husband this season, did we not?"

"Yes," Caroline replied hesitantly, as she now suspected where this conversation was headed.

"Then can you explain to me why it is now April and you have refused one offer of marriage and one offer of courtship?"

Bingley looked outwardly calm, but Caroline knew her brother. Even when not smiling he almost always had an open, carefree expression, and was always moving in some way, whether to tap his toes, fidget with a pillow, or walk about. This was one of the rare occasions that he was upset; his brow was furrowed, and he sat eerily still.

"You must not know who made the offers," she said smoothly. "Surely you will agree with me that neither was suitable."

"Actually, both gentlemen approached me, as they should. Mr Johnson is a wealthy tradesman who rarely even works in his shop, and Mr White is heir to an estate only thirty miles away. You have refused one man with money and another in the landed gentry, so what exactly are you hoping for in marriage?"

"I will not marry a tradesman, however wealthy," Caroline scowled. "And as for Mr White, he does not even own the estate. His father may yet live for decades, and it is hardly worth anything."

"Twenty-five hundred a year is a respectable income," said Bingley, "and they have a house in town. I know that is important to you."

"Have you not noticed how his sister dresses? I know I could not expect to shop at high end modistes as his wife. No, he will not do at all."

"So you want to hold out for both money and property, then," Bingley huffed. "Perhaps you hope to land an Earl, or even a Duke?"

"No!" Caroline stood up and moved next to the window. "Charles, I have a large dowry, I attended a first-class seminary, and I have a large acquaintance in the first circles. I am very eligible."

"Yet your fortune comes from trade, like mine and Louisa's," he retorted. "Many who would befriend us still would not marry us for that reason. You are aiming too high. Hurst has a similar situation to Mr White, so Louisa married him knowing it was likely the best she could do."

"Louisa could have done better and so can I." She crossed her arms. "I am not holding out for a Duke. I just want someone like Mr—"

She snapped her mouth shut and looked at Charles uneasily.

"Do not say Darcy," he said with a glare. "We are fortunate to have his friendship but it is out of the question to expect him, or anyone else as high above us as him, to offer for you. I have told you this before. You must put that notion out of your head."

"I did not say it," she said with asperity.

After a couple minutes of silence, Bingley spoke again.

"Caroline, I love you and I want you to be happy. Furthermore, you are over twenty-one and I cannot force you to marry someone you do not want. But you must marry before it is too late. Offers will only get worse with each passing year."

She looked out the window.

"If you do not get engaged this year I will release your dowry to you next January to set up your own establishment. If you refuse one more eligible offer before then I will release your dowry at that time. Am I clear?"

She whipped back around with tears in her eyes. "Charles, that is not enough time! I am too young for that!"

"If you change your mind about either Mr Johnson or Mr White I will speak with him, but of course I cannot guarantee a renewal of any offer. You have already had two offers in four months; continue attending balls and seeking introductions as you have been, and I am certain you can have success."

Caroline turned back to the window, tears beginning to fall.

Bingley put down his teacup and walked out of the room, leaving her alone to contemplate her future.

Elizabeth walked alone in the grove she had enjoyed the other day with Darcy. After over two weeks of solitary rambles, a single time in his company was enough to make this path feel dull without him.

She passed the tree he had pulled her behind, when he had tricked her into believing he was about to kiss her, and blushed anew. 

Her dreams the last few nights were full of that moment. She would vividly relive the sensations of her back against the tree, her racing heart, her overheated face, her trembling hands, her eyes seeing nothing but his beautiful face so close to hers. The way she felt there was no way to escape, yet nowhere else she would rather be. How could he affect her so much without even touching her?

She wondered if it was simply that it was her first time almost kissing someone and she was only nervous and curious about it. Perhaps the thought of kissing anyone would invoke the same physical reaction. She imagined Colonel Fitzwilliam in the same position Darcy had been: no, she wanted him to move away. She imagined Mr Collins: absolutely not. She shuddered. She imagined Darcy again—yes, she definitely wanted to kiss him.

Was this love?

She noticed a lone figure approaching her from the opposite direction.

"Fitzwilliam!"

She hurried up to Darcy, gave him a beaming smile and took his outstretched hands, to his delight.

"I did not expect to see you until tomorrow. I thought you would spend much of today driving back from Hertfordshire."

"I returned to London yesterday, to make the trip this morning half as long," he replied. With a grin, he added, "And to avoid a falsehood, for I had told my aunt that I had business requiring me to spend two nights in London. She need not know that the business itself was elsewhere."

Elizabeth chuckled at his subterfuge, and asked, "How was your meeting with my father?"

"Very well," he said. "I began by thanking him for being my champion last autumn, when he helped you doubt the rumours you heard about me. We had quite a pleasant conversation."

He tucked her hand on his arm and they began walking together.

He continued, "We officially are unofficially engaged. No one knows except us and your father. I am not preparing settlement papers yet, nor will the banns be called. I consider myself irrevocably pledged to you, but you may call it off at any time with no harm to your reputation, since nobody would know. Is that to your satisfaction, dearest?"

"Yes." She squeezed his arm. "Thank you for understanding. You may call it off too, if you change your mind." The thought of his doing so made her feel uneasy, but she felt obliged to make the offer all the same.

He kissed her free hand. "I will not."

"Perhaps I shall throw you over for your cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam," she said. "He called at the parsonage yesterday while you were away."

"Did he, now? I suppose you would prefer the son of an Earl to me. Your social climbing ways are well known."

"I am glad you see it my way. He believes we may be invited to tea at Rosings tomorrow, being Easter. I will try not to flirt too outrageously with him in front of you out of consideration for your feelings."

"How is so much goodness contained in one small person?" Darcy murmured.

The two walked and talked for some time until Elizabeth was obliged to return to the parsonage. They would not be able to meet the next morning due to church but took solace in the plans for tea that afternoon, little though they would be able to interact under Lady Catherine's watchful eye.

Darcy looked around the parlour at Rosings.

To his left, Mr and Mrs Collins were in conversation with Lady Catherine. To his right, Elizabeth and Anne sat together on a settee with Colonel Fitzwilliam in a chair beside Elizabeth. He could not hear their conversation over Mr Collins's droning, but it seemed lively enough while Anne looked on.

It was his first opportunity to compare Anne and Elizabeth side by side. Despite the large disparity in the women's wealth and stations, he knew he could live a thousand lifetimes and choose Elizabeth every time.

Anne's complexion was sallow and her hair was limp. Elizabeth had a slight tan, not fashionable by any means but very appealing to him. Her curls were light, almost buoyant, and her eyes sparkled with a vibrancy that was lacking in his cousin.

Anne, though the elder of the two, had a childish figure that was small and waiflike. Elizabeth—

He shifted in his chair and focused on taking a sip of tea. This was not the time or the place to contemplate Elizabeth's body.

But it was not only physical differences that made him prefer Elizabeth so completely. She was his perfect complement. They read many of the same books, though frequently with different feelings so they had no shortage of conversation. He was naturally serious and taciturn, but her irrepressible vivacity infected him and awoke his own teasing and lighthearted side. He knew he could no longer live without her. He hoped it would not be long before she chose to proceed with wedding plans; before she loved him as he loved her.

He looked around again and his aunt nodded approvingly at him. She must have thought he was looking at Anne.

He resolved not to look at Elizabeth for the rest of their call. Several minutes later he heard her delightful laughter and could not help himself. She caught his eye and winked.

He took another sip of tea to hide his smile.

Colonel Fitzwilliam was enjoying this visit to Rosings more than usual, thanks to the addition of two lovely ladies who had not been present last year.

So far he had called at the parsonage twice, once with Darcy and once without him. Now they were all taking tea together and he was enjoying another conversation with the charming Miss Bennet. Though she was not as pretty as her sister, she was more lively and he liked her very well. Obviously he could not consider anything serious with her but he certainly intended to enjoy her company for this trip.

He was uncertain what was happening with Darcy. It was apparent that he favoured Miss Bennet—he had already observed his rush to call on her on their arrival in Kent, and here in the parlour he was constantly looking at her. However, when he thought he would catch them walking together, instead he had found Miss Bennet alone, so he had clearly misheard and they were not having secret assignations. Perhaps Darcy was infatuated but not about to do something foolish.

Miss Bennet did not seem to show a particular preference for Darcy. In fact, when in company with both cousins, he was the one she spoke with the most. He smiled a little at the idea of his cousin being jealous of him for once. The story about Bingley likely helped turn the tide as well.

They had been here almost a week and he had seen nothing to indicate any danger to the family's plans for Darcy and Anne to marry, aside from Darcy's indifference, which was old news. Lady Catherine did not appear to feel anything was amiss. Still, with one more week remaining he would be vigilant and if he still had suspicions at the time of their departure he would speak with his father back in London.

He made an amusing remark to Miss Bennet and saw Darcy try to disguise a smile at her charming laugh. Besotted fool.

"Well, Elizabeth, we leave Kent tomorrow."

Elizabeth had left the parsonage earlier than usual that morning and leaned against a tree next to their path as she waited for Darcy. When he arrived, instead of walking they stayed standing together, and he rested his forearm on the tree above her head. She was quite content with his slightly too close proximity.

"In some ways this trip has been idyllic, has it not, Fitzwilliam?"

"Certainly the best visit to Kent I have ever had," he smiled, "despite having to fend off Lady Catherine's hints more than usual. I believe she is convinced my staying an extra week was for Anne's sake."

The week before, the couple had decided they would leave Kent together, him delaying his departure and Elizabeth moving hers one week ahead. He disliked the idea of her travelling by post, considering her under his protection.

"I cannot imagine marrying a man so obviously unwilling," she shuddered. "Poor Miss de Bourgh. I wonder if she will ever marry at all."

"Part of me hopes she will not, and it is not because I have any interest in keeping responsibility for Rosings. If my mother could not survive childbirth after having Georgiana, I cannot believe Anne would."

"Poor Georgiana," Elizabeth sighed. "To grow up without a mother must have been difficult. I look forward to meeting her in London."

In one of their daily rambles he had finally told her the entire history between his family and George Wickham. Despite everything she already knew about the man, and what she heard in the first part of Darcy's tale, she was still shocked at learning of his attempt to elope with a fifteen-year-old Georgiana. Though Darcy hated seeing his beloved cry, he was touched by her concern and compassion. He knew she would make a wonderful sister to Georgiana.

"I have mentioned you in letters to her since I came here, but have not said that we may marry. Would you mind terribly if I did share that with her? I will ask her not to tell our relations, and she would suspect anyway once I introduced you."

"That will be fine; thank you for asking first," Elizabeth said. She frowned. "I have badly wanted to tell Jane. She and I used to share everything with each other, but this is impossible now. She must tell her husband, who of course would run straight to Lady Catherine with the information. I have loved seeing her every day these five weeks, yet it is not the same as it was before she married."

Darcy took her hand. "I hope it helps to know you are withholding it as much for her sake as your own. She will bear the brunt of Lady Catherine's displeasure when it comes to light, unfortunately."

She smiled up at him. "You never let pass any opportunity to say 'when', do you?"

Darcy was working in the study he generally used at Rosings. The extra week here had actually been quite helpful for him to get more work done for the estate, as it was far simpler than corresponding with Lady Catherine's steward.

Suddenly, his aunt unceremoniously burst into the room.

"Darcy, it is time to get serious. This is your last day. We must decide on a date for your wedding."

He looked at the papers before him, sighed, and stood up to face her.

"Aunt," he said wearily, "I will tell you again what I tell you every year. I will not marry Anne. I can assist you in managing Rosings without being its owner."

"Preposterous!" she thundered. "I will tell you again what you force me to explain year after year. You have no choice. The union was planned more than twenty years ago. It is endorsed by my brother who is the head of this family."

" I am the head of the Darcy family, not my uncle. I have made no promise to you or to Anne. No agreement was signed by my father and he is now dead. Therefore, I do have a choice and my choice is to decline."

"It is your duty," she said, her face already alarmingly red. "Rosings needs a master. Anne needs a husband. You are untitled, but the uniting of the two great estates would elevate you to nearly as much importance as an Earl. Would you neglect your duty to your sister and your future children like this?"

Darcy struggled to contain his anger at this accusation, which he knew was calculated to hit him where he was most sensitive. "My uncle has done nothing to assist you with Rosings since your husband passed. My cousins have done nothing. You allow your steward to do all the work when I am away most of the year, and Anne has never learned even the basics of how an estate is run despite technically being its owner. Every last one of you has allowed the burden to fall on me these four years. I believe I am the only member of this family who is doing his duty."

"And what of your duty to Anne? Who will care for her when I am gone? Who will inherit Rosings, if not your children with her?"

Darcy shrugged. "Rosings is not entailed; she may will it to whomever she pleases. I hope it is not me. She may marry someone else. If she finds herself alone, she may continue having the steward and me oversee her estate's operation. She and her companion may remain here, remove to your townhouse in London, or live with one of our relatives. She may even move to Pemberley, if she prefers, just not as my wife. If her future is your primary concern, you need not fear that I will neglect her."

Lady Catherine was now purple. "You will have her die a spinster!"

"It is not my fault you have not looked outside the family for a husband for her! But her health is too poor to allow marriage, anyway. It is far safer to not have her take the risk that childbirth would create."

"Insolent boy! You shall force me to take drastic action."

He crossed his arms and gave her his most menacing glare. "I am not a boy, and you will do no such thing. Any attempt you make to force my hand will only harm Anne, not influence me. Furthermore, if any attempt is made I will never speak to you again, nor will I lift a finger ever again to assist with Rosings or Anne."

She shook in her anger, but made no reply. He continued: "Here are your choices. You will forever cease all talk of this union which shall never occur, and I will continue to visit annually and manage the estate by correspondence the rest of the year. Or you will do something reckless, leading to your and your daughter's humiliation and complete estrangement from Georgiana and me. Think carefully about what you want to do. The choice should be easy."

He moved to the door and held it open, indicating the interview was over. After a few seconds she tilted up her chin and exited the room with as much dignity as she could muster.

He closed the door, sat at his desk, and held his head in his hands in frustration. Part of him wanted to leave and never return regardless of his aunt's decision. He looked at the work in front of him and considered abandoning it to go rest in his chambers. He even considered casting it into the fire.

He sighed deeply, picked up his pen, and continued writing in Lady Catherine's ledgers.

"Dear Jane, when will I see you again?" Elizabeth asked as they awaited Darcy's carriage to collect her for the drive to London.

Jane sighed. "I do not know. I hope we may visit Longbourn this autumn. In September it will have been a year since I was last there."

"I shall count on it," Elizabeth replied. She kissed her sister's cheek. "I am very pleased I came. It was wonderful. I will report to the rest of the family that you are well established here and that Lady Catherine is as condescending as her reputation has it."

"I believe she will miss you nearly as much as I," Jane chuckled. "I will never be able to match your impertinence, and she has grown quite accustomed to it."

"Perhaps I will visit again next year." Elizabeth espied the carriage approaching. "Well, it is time."

The sisters embraced and Elizabeth took her leave of her brother, who ensured she knew how grateful to be for the gentlemen's generosity in conveying her to London, and promised (unasked) to send her compliments to Lady Catherine and Miss de Bourgh. He took his time in complimenting the gentlemen themselves as a manservant loaded Elizabeth's trunk and she entered the carriage. A maid, Polly, was already there, being borrowed from Rosings to lend propriety to Elizabeth travelling with unrelated single gentlemen.

In due time the carriage was off and Elizabeth waved at Jane until the parsonage was out of sight. She sighed and settled into her seat. She missed her sister already but took solace in Darcy's compassionate gaze.

The trip was uneventful. Darcy began the journey very tense, as his farewell to Lady Catherine was uncomfortable. The further away they got from Rosings, however, the more he began to relax. The worst was behind him. Ahead was a week in London followed by Hertfordshire for an indefinite amount of time. He had secured permission from Bingley to stay at Netherfield for as long as he wished. He cared not where he was as long as it was with his dearest Elizabeth.

They made good time arriving at Gracechurch Street in London. After handing her out Darcy promised Elizabeth to call on her the next day, then re-entered the carriage for the last leg of his journey home to Mayfair. Polly was left behind with Elizabeth, and would be conveyed back to Kent by post the next morning.

He was looking forward to seeing his sister who was awaiting him at home with her companion, Mrs Annesley. They would spend the rest of the day together and he would bring her the next day to introduce her to her prospective sister. His pleasure increased as he imagined how that meeting would go. With Elizabeth's gentleness and ease with strangers she was sure to make the shy Georgiana comfortable in no time. He felt a lightness that had not been with him since before his confrontation with his aunt the day before.

They were a block away from the Gardiners' home as he was having these thoughts. His reverie was interrupted when his cousin spoke.

"Darcy, have you lost your mind?"

Chapter Text

Darcy gaped at Colonel Fitzwilliam. "What are you talking about?" he finally asked.

"I was aware you liked Miss Bennet rather too much, but I thought you knew better than to do anything about it. Then I saw you two in the grove yesterday looking positively cosy. I can imagine only two scenarios for the nature of your relationship with her, and I cannot determine which is less likely or less offensive. She is too low to wed and too high to bed and you should know that!"

It took several moments for Darcy to control his anger enough to reply.

"Fitzwilliam, you are like a brother to me and that is the only thing preventing me from calling you out this minute," he said evenly. "You are insulting the woman who will be my wife ."

"Marriage!" cried the Colonel. "I ask you again, have you lost your mind? What about Anne?"

"You know I have never intended to marry Anne, and I made it perfectly clear to Lady Catherine yesterday that she is never to speak of it again."

"Does Lady Catherine know about Miss Bennet?" 

"No, and you will not tell her. In fact, you will tell no one until I am ready to make an announcement."

"So it is not official yet? It is not too late to come to your senses?" When Darcy did not answer immediately, Fitzwilliam attempted to reason with him. "Listen to me. Unlike everyone else, I do not care if you marry Anne in particular. I understand your reasons not to. But surely you know you can marry someone equal to her in station? Find a different woman who has property and connections like Anne, who is also beautiful and companionable like Miss Bennet. You can have both."

"I do not require both. Pemberley is enough for me. My status is sufficient to withstand any minor scandal that people may create out of my marrying an unknown. Believe me, I have considered it all extensively and have determined that she will be well worth it."

Fitzwilliam thought over his cousin's words, but could not bring himself to condone what he was doing.

"I am Georgiana's other guardian," he said. "I am entitled to question any decision you make that may harm her. Do you not realise the impact this will have on her prospects?"

"Do you think I have ever done anything in my life without considering her?" Darcy snapped. "Her dowry will be unchanged. Her connections will not be enhanced by my marriage, but they will still be good. Her name will always be valuable to families looking for a good match for their sons. You are allowing yourself to be too concerned by appearances and overestimating actual harm that will be done to either me or her."

"Then you truly will marry some penniless country girl?" Fitzwilliam sneered. "You will call on her relations on Gracechurch Street ? You will introduce her sisters as your own, and Mr Collins as your brother?"

"I am willing to make concessions to have her," Darcy answered curtly. "You will not change my mind. This conversation is over."

He looked out the window in dismissal. His cousin considered speaking again but knew he would not be heard.

The rest of the drive was completed in silence. When the Colonel exited the carriage at his parents' home Darcy did not even look at him.

Darcy knew he would receive a visit from the Earl very soon.

"Miss Carlyle, did you enjoy the ball at the Fullertons' a few nights ago?"

Bingley was at a dinner party, seated next to a young lady he had danced with three evenings prior. It had been the second ball at which they danced together. He found her very pretty and was pleased to have now met her again in an environment more conducive to conversation. He was quite interested in furthering the acquaintance.

"Oh, it was great fun!" she giggled. "I danced with ever so many gentlemen. One was even a Viscount!"

"Is this your first season, then?" he asked. He eyed her more closely and discovered she was younger than she appeared in the dimly lit ballrooms.

"Yes, I have just come out," she affirmed. "Papa thought it was too soon but Mama prevailed upon him, knowing how much I longed for a season. I have been to balls, and teas, and dinner parties. It is as exciting as I always dreamed! But I believe the best part has been all the shopping." She giggled again. "I was astonished by the number of new gowns I was allowed to purchase. I do so love new clothes!"

"Your dress tonight is lovely," he said gallantly. "Tell me, what has been your favourite memory so far from your time in town?"

Miss Carlyle thought seriously for a minute. "I would have to say it was the masquerade I attended last month." She leaned in and whispered, "I met a Duke there!"

Bingley's interest was waning rapidly, but he pressed on.

"I lease an estate not too far from here, in Hertfordshire," he told her. "I have not spent much time in the country yet but enjoyed myself exceedingly when I was there. Do you like the country as well?"

"Oh, it is so very dull at my father's estate," she replied. "There is nothing to do in the country."

"I love horseback riding; one of my favourite things to do is ride the fields at my estate. It is even better when I have a companion. Do you ride?"

"Papa made me learn, but I never do it if I can help it." She wrinkled her nose in distaste. "Horses are such awful, smelly things, and riding habits are so ugly."

Bingley looked down the table at Caroline. She was speaking with a respectable-looking gentleman. At least this evening would not be a complete waste.

"Mr Bingley, is it true you are intimate friends with Mr Darcy?" his dining companion asked. "My elder sister has been wild to meet him for two years, so now I am too."

He sighed and took a sip of wine.

Darcy and Georgiana arrived home after calling on Elizabeth. As he predicted, the two ladies were fast friends at first meeting, and they were now discussing her animatedly. Georgiana heartily approved of her brother's choice of wife, for though he had explained to her that Elizabeth was at liberty to end their engagement if she wished, the young girl was quite certain from what she had seen that it would only end with their marriage.

"Lord Matlock," their butler announced, and their uncle entered the room.

"Georgiana, please leave us," Darcy said. She gave her uncle a kiss and exited swiftly, suspecting this call was related to Miss Bennet. Georgiana was not so naïve as to not realise she was considered beneath them; but like her brother, she cared more about character than status. Her brother deserved to be loved, and she knew he had found that in Elizabeth.

Darcy eyed the older man warily as they sat down in chairs facing each other.

"I presume you know why I am here," Lord Matlock began.

"In the last two days I have quarreled with your sister and your son," he replied. "I assume you have come to take your turn."

"I do not wish to quarrel," the older man placated. "Richard told me about your conversation from yesterday. I would like to ascertain the facts. Can you tell me about the young lady?"

"Very well. Miss Elizabeth Bennet is a gentleman's daughter whose estate is in Hertfordshire. Their income is roughly two thousand a year. She is the second of five sisters. Her elder sister is married to my aunt's parson, Mr Collins, who is heir to their estate."

The Earl pursed his lips. "And this is who you wish to marry?"

"Yes," Darcy answered tightly. 

His uncle waited until it was clear no further explanation was forthcoming. "May I ask why someone who is so devoted to his family, and who could have taken his pick of women in London's high society, would choose to lower himself so?"

Darcy shrugged. "A few years ago I would have resisted her. But after enough years of being told to marry against my inclination, despite my constant protests, I simply do not care anymore what you think. You will be disappointed by anyone who is not Anne, so I decided to please myself."

"That union would have benefitted many."

"Except for me," Darcy said. "I have told Lady Catherine I will continue to manage her estate, and care for Anne in the future if necessary, without the shackles of marriage to her. I fail to comprehend why that is not good enough."

The Earl sighed. "I suppose it is pointless to belabour this. I understand you are already engaged to Miss Bennet?"

"Yes. We are not making the announcement or beginning wedding planning yet, but I have promised myself to her and obtained her father's consent. I hope this delay at her request will help you acquit her of fortune hunting, because I know you suspect her."

They sat in silence for a few minutes. Darcy sat perfectly still. His uncle drummed his fingers on the arm of his chair.

"Well," Lord Matlock said, "you are correct that I am disappointed, but it is done. We will not borrow trouble by spreading the news among the family until you decide to announce it yourself. When that day comes I will ensure the family shows no disharmony, at least in public."

Darcy nodded. "That will do."

The two men stood up.

"Darcy, I thank you for taking on responsibility for Rosings thus far. You are a good man. I will look for another solution that will free you from the burden, since you do not wish to have the place for yourself."

"Why not Richard?" Darcy finally asked the question he had wondered many times.

Matlock shook his head. "He will never quit the army," he said. "He is as stubborn as you. And I do not believe he is responsible enough to care for it adequately."

Darcy nodded again.

When his uncle left, he walked upstairs to the Mistress's chambers. All this trouble before a wedding date is even set , he thought with a mirthless chuckle. But he believed he was winning her. He hoped they would marry this summer.

He imagined Elizabeth in this room. He saw her sitting at that vanity, reading on that settee, and sleeping beside him in that bed. He heard her joyful laughter filling the room. He felt her pressed against him in an embrace. 

He felt at peace. 

Elizabeth belonged in this room. She belonged with him. He would do anything for her happiness. He was relieved it would not be necessary, but he was willing to break with his family for her. They all wanted him to make a brilliant match, but he would much rather have a brilliant woman.

And he knew he would love her forever.

"Aunt, how did you know you loved my uncle?" Elizabeth asked Mrs Gardiner as the two ladies sat alone in the parlour.

Darcy had just left them. They had been in London nearly a week and he called every day, sometimes with Georgiana, sometimes alone. Elizabeth had not known what to expect of his interactions with her relations in trade but he and the Gardiners were getting on splendidly. He had even had them all over to dinner the night before. As it was Elizabeth's first time seeing his home, which could one day be hers, she was rather intimidated by its size and luxury but pleased with the good taste present throughout.

Mrs Gardiner smiled at her. "I was happy when I was with him and forlorn whenever he went away. When something bad happened I wanted his comfort, and when something good happened I wanted to share my joy with him."

Elizabeth looked out the window in the direction Darcy's carriage was rolling away. She thought she could make it out turning the corner at the end of the street.

"Do you feel that way about Mr Darcy?" her aunt asked.

Elizabeth could no longer see his carriage. "I do feel rather forlorn right now," she said with an embarrassed smile.

"He is a good man, and he loves you," Mrs Gardiner said. "That is more important to me than how rich and grand he is. I know you have only been courting for less than a month, but I have a very good feeling about you two."

Elizabeth thought about their visit from that morning. They had taken the Gardiner children to the park across the street, with the assistance of their governess. Her favourite times with him were always outdoors. They had a love of nature in common.

"I now believe that I began to like him last autumn when he was in Hertfordshire, and I know he liked me," she replied. "Perhaps that is why it feels longer than four weeks."

"You have also been fortunate enough to see each other every day," her aunt pointed out. "Many a courting couple are frustrated by meddling relations, distance, work, or other lost opportunities to spend time together. Mr Darcy is at leisure to follow you around from Kent to London to Longbourn," she chuckled.

They had talked about their parents that morning. Elizabeth was astonished to learn that his parents were a love match. The irony was that their example of marital felicity was what caused him to revolt so thoroughly against the match with Anne that his mother had hoped for him. She was touched by his assertion that believing his true love existed somewhere gave him the strength to push back against his family's pressure. "I was waiting for you," he told her.

She told him about her own parents, too. Her father had been captivated by a girl who was beautiful and lively, but who ultimately proved to have a mean understanding that made them ill matched. Year after year she succumbed more to her nerves, and he withdrew more to his own personal interests, until they each became unrecognisable to the other. Even without her promise to Jane, Elizabeth would rather not marry at all than to marry without confidence in their love and compatibility. She had spent twenty years observing the kind of life rushing into marriage could lead to. She was grateful that Darcy understood and put no pressure on her—aside from some teasing, which truthfully she enjoyed.

"I am fortunate in many ways with him," she said thoughtfully.

"When you ask yourself if you love him, you must not allow your thoughts to interfere. Listen to the answer your heart gives, for only it can tell you."

Elizabeth closed her eyes and quieted all thoughts. Do I love him? She forced herself to ignore everything she knew about how advantageous the marriage would be, what made him a good man, and what his flaws were. She tried to only experience the feelings that coursed through her when she was with him or thinking of him.

Her heart told her the answer was yes. 

She and Darcy would be driving to Hertfordshire in two days with Georgiana and her companion, Mrs Annesley. Elizabeth wanted to give herself those days to be certain, with the added advantage of being at home to announce their engagement to her family as soon as matters were settled between them.

The more she thought about her plan the happier she became. She loved him, and when they were back at Longbourn she would tell him.

And then she would finally kiss him.

"Are you off to Netherfield soon?" Bingley asked his friend as they enjoyed a glass of port at their club.

Darcy nodded. "Two days."

"Are you going alone?"

"My sister and her companion will be with me, as long as you do not mind."

"Of course not, Darcy! You know I always say, 'the more, the merrier'."

He peered at the other man, who looked much more relaxed than he usually did.

"May I ask you something, though?"

"Certainly," Darcy replied, and took a sip of his drink.

"I cannot understand why you want to go back there? I do not recall you particularly enjoying the society there."

Darcy chuckled. "I particularly enjoyed the society of one specific person."

Bingley cast his mind back to those months and was unable to determine who his taciturn friend had befriended.

Darcy had mercy on the younger man in his confusion. He leaned forward. "Miss Elizabeth Bennet," he said, and sat back to observe the reaction.

"A woman!" Bingley gasped. He slapped the arm of his chair. "Miss Bennet! I truly had no notion. You gave not the slightest hint."

"I know. You could learn something about subtlety in paying attention to a woman."

"Believe me, I have finally learned my lesson. This season I have been attempting to discern a woman's character before wasting time becoming infatuated. I now understand why you always lost interest so quickly: London society encourages shallowness."

He took a sip of port. "But Miss Bennet! I cannot believe it."

Darcy laughed. "I apologise for your distress. We met again in Kent and renewed the acquaintance."

"Well, man, I congratulate you. She is a fine woman. I have been thinking of returning to Netherfield for the summer, perhaps in mid-June. I hope I will not get in your way?"

Darcy laughed again. Bingley marvelled at how lighthearted he had become since he had last seen him in December. The man must truly be in love.

"Bingley, it is your house. You are free to evict me if I get in your way."

"I would never interrupt your courtship like that, friend."

Darcy opted not to inform him that their return to London after the ball in November had done exactly that.

"Please do not tell anyone where I am or why," he said instead. "I do not want rumours spreading prematurely."

"Nor do you want my sister chasing you there," Bingley chuckled. "I have told her she must marry this year and to her credit she is trying, but she continues to set her sights too high. The season is almost over but she is not yet engaged."

"I applaud your effort, anyway. And you say you have not met any young ladies you liked? Miss Churchill will likely be in Hertfordshire when you return, you know."

"Yes, but I am well past the point of being able to meet her with indifference. I saw her here in town once or twice without incident. Besides, I have heard she is recently engaged."

Darcy nodded. "Good."

The two men spent several minutes in companionable silence.

Bingley shook his head. "Miss Elizabeth Bennet! I never would have guessed."

Mary Bennet and John Lucas strolled through the garden at Longbourn, a short distance away from Kitty and Lydia who were taking turns pushing each other on the swing. 

They were not talking. This was not unusual, for neither person was naturally loquacious. When John had first begun calling on her, they both made a great effort to engage in conversation for the other person's sake; now, two months later, each was comfortable with silence and knew the other was too. 

"Lizzy will be home in two days," Mary finally spoke.

John smiled. "What good news for you! I know you have missed her these six weeks."

"Letters are not the same," she agreed. "My family has been sliding back into their old ways more lately, and I hope her being back will help. And I have quite missed our walks in the mornings, too, especially now that it is warmer again. I can never drag myself out without her."

"But I would wager she never missed a day in Kent, even without you," he teased. 

"I daresay you are correct." She paused, lost in thought. "Papa has been acting sly whenever she is mentioned. I believe he knows something about her that I do not."

"She wrote nothing unusual or noteworthy to you?"

"Well… her letters were mostly full of Jane and Lady Catherine, but there was one interesting thing. Mr Darcy was in Kent for part of her trip, as he is Lady Catherine's nephew. They had been friends last autumn but it ended badly before he went away."

"I remember that," said John. "She made me dance with her to escape from someone at the Netherfield ball, and I think it was him."

"Yes, it was," she confirmed. "I wonder how their acquaintance has gone this time. She barely mentioned him except in passing."

"Do you suppose—could your father know something in that quarter?"

Mary started. "Surely she would have told me if they were courting? I knew every detail about their prior interactions."

They walked a few minutes quietly as they each considered the possibility.

"Perhaps Lizzy wanted to keep it from Mama so she did not tell any of us," Mary eventually surmised.

"But she should know she could have trusted you not to inform your mother."

"Hmm." 

Conversation again paused for a time.

"If it turns out to be that… how would you feel about the match?" John inquired.

"Very glad. She would only agree to it if they resolved their misunderstandings from before and she was convinced of his good character." She frowned. "I would not like her to move so far away, however."

"None of you can expect to stay at Longbourn forever," he said. "Do you?"

Mary blushed deeply. She was unsure if this question was about them, and had no idea how to answer truthfully without revealing too much of her hopes.

He stopped their walking and turned to face her, taking both her hands. 

"Mary," he looked at her earnestly, "could I persuade you to leave Longbourn and live with me at Lucas Lodge? Will you marry me?"

She squeezed his hands and gave him the brightest smile he had ever seen. "Yes, I will!"

Elizabeth, Darcy, Georgiana, and Mrs Annesley rolled away in Darcy's carriage as Elizabeth waved goodbye to her beloved Gardiner relations. The children were allowed to leave their lessons to see their favourite cousin off. She would miss them all, but was gratified by Darcy's suggestion that they visit Pemberley on their summer tour to the north; even if he was not there, he said, he would ensure they received the best hospitality he could offer if they decided to tour his home.

Georgiana excitedly asked Elizabeth questions about her family, her home and what they would do for amusement during their sojourn in Hertfordshire. Elizabeth laughed and explained that it was a small neighbourhood surrounding a small village, and that most of the bustle and noise would occur within Longbourn from her two youngest sisters.

Darcy frowned a little at the reminder of the behaviour of those girls, but kept his counsel. Perhaps they would have grown up a little more in the intervening months since he had last seen them. At any rate, he knew he could at least look forward to more conversations with Mr Bennet.

The drive passed rapidly as everyone was in high spirits and enjoying conversation the entire way.

Back at Longbourn, the rest of the Bennet family was having a light meal together.

"Well, everyone, we should go outside to wait," said Mr Bennet. "Mr Darcy should be here within half-an-hour."

"Mr Darcy?" asked Mrs Bennet. "Whyever would he be calling on us?"

A wave of panic rose as she looked around the room. "The house is a mess! We are not fit to be seen by a man such as him! What could he mean by coming here? Hill! Hill!" She jumped up as she called for her housekeeper and through her distress managed to convey that the parlour was to be tidied and refreshments prepared immediately.

Delighted by his wife's reaction, Mr Bennet continued. "Yes, all must look well for Lizzy's suitor. Although I do not imagine he will stay for long after dropping her off. He will want to go to Netherfield, where he will be staying as long as Lizzy allows him."

"Lizzy and Mr Darcy!" Lydia cried. "What a good joke! He never spoke a word to a single one of us before."

"It is true," said Mrs Bennet, calming momentarily in confusion. "I do not recall him noticing her, and then they all went away without even taking leave."

She jumped up again as the information caught up with her. "Lizzy and Mr Darcy! That clever girl! My goodness! Ten thousand a year!" She paced around the room.

"Quickly, everyone, let us await them outside!" she called back as she hurried to the front entrance. "We must not allow Mr Darcy to arrive with no one there to greet him!"

Kitty and Lydia followed immediately, both eager to see if it was true and how fine his carriage was. Mary stayed back and raised an eyebrow at her father. He gave a mischievous grin but said nothing as he moved to join the others outside.

"Lizzy, welcome home!" Mrs Bennet cried the moment Mr Darcy handed her second daughter out of his carriage. "So it is true! Lizzy, you sly thing, I had no idea! Mr Darcy, thank you for bringing my girl home safely, and welcome to Longbourn, sir!"

"Thank you, madam," he answered gravely as he handed down his sister. "May I introduce my sister, Miss Georgiana Darcy."

The moment introductions were over Kitty and Lydia accosted the girl who was already intimidated. 

"Your dress is so fine!" Kitty exclaimed. "Do you buy your clothes at the very best shops on Bond Street?"

"Um, I do shop on Bond Street, but also in Lambton near Pemberley," she answered as she smoothed her skirts self-consciously.

"I would add far more ribbons and lace to your dress," Lydia added. She looked Georgiana over with a critical eye. "How long will you be here? Perhaps Kitty and I can take you to the milliner's."

"Actually, I—I like my dress as it is. But I thank you. I would be happy to accompany you shopping sometime but I do not require anything for myself." Georgiana sent a nervous glance to her brother, who had been watching the entire exchange closely.

"We must carry on to Netherfield," Darcy jumped in. "We have only come to drop off Miss Bennet and greet everyone." 

"You must not leave so soon!" Mrs Bennet said. "Will you not come in for refreshments?"

"Thank you, but I will be happy to accept your offer next time." He turned to Elizabeth. "I will see you tomorrow."

With a stiff bow to the group he handed Georgiana back into their carriage and they were off, leaving Elizabeth blushing in embarrassment from her uncouth family. She hoped the next day would go better.

Darcy arrived the next morning on his horse. "Where is Miss Darcy?" Elizabeth looked around as she met him at the door.

"Georgiana travels poorly. She chose to remain at Netherfield today to rest and will likely join me tomorrow," he replied.

She looked askance at this explanation - his sister had not seemed overly exhausted by a mere three hour journey, but she chose not to press him.

"Come in and I will call for tea," she said. "Everyone except Papa is in the parlour."

There was much ado when they joined the rest of the family. Darcy gleaned that Mary had recently become engaged to be married; he peered at her and noticed she was prettier than he remembered. He had never considered her as plain as her mother always said, possibly because of her resemblance to Elizabeth, but now she seemed to be making more effort in her appearance and the results were quite charming.

The second bit of news was that Lydia had just received an invitation that morning to accompany the militia when they remove to Brighton for the summer as Colonel and Mrs Forster's special guest. 

"It is not fair," Kitty whined. "I have just as much right to go as Lydia, and even more, for I am two years older."

"But I am Mrs Forster's particular friend," Lydia stuck her tongue out at her sister. "You are only jealous, for I will get to dance with officers every night while you are stuck at home watching other couples courting."

Darcy gritted his teeth and sat stiffly in his chair.

"When will your wedding be, Mary?" Elizabeth asked in an attempt to change the subject.

Mary opened her mouth but her mother cut in before she could speak.

"Well, it is now the beginning of May, so I had thought to have the wedding in July. You recall how rushed it all was for Jane's wedding last year! There was hardly time to put together a wedding breakfast! But now we must put it off until Lydia returns from Brighton."

"Surely you must not delay the wedding for that!" Elizabeth exclaimed. "Lydia should be the one to stay home if there is a conflict."

"No, no," Mrs Bennet waved her hand. "Mary has already secured her man. It does not matter when the actual wedding is. We must not take away an opportunity for one of her sisters to make a match!"

Darcy stood up and moved to look out the window.

"And that reminds me," she added in a loud whisper to Elizabeth, "I expect you to do everything you can to secure yours, as well." She nodded meaningfully towards Darcy's back.

Elizabeth looked miserably at her intended. He did not move, but she was certain he had heard.

"I believe Papa will agree with me that Mary should have her wedding when she chooses, and not be forced to wait for months," Elizabeth said desperately.

"Actually, he has already given me permission to go," Lydia smirked.

"It is only John Lucas," Mrs Bennet added. "It is hardly the event of the year. Now, if it were someone important,"—she again nodded in Darcy's direction—"I may be persuaded to reconsider."

Mary left the room.

"Papa must not have remembered that Lydia's travelling could interfere with the wedding," Elizabeth said. "He may yet change his mind."

"If he takes back his promise I shall cry and carry on until he allows me to go," Lydia declared.

"You should not go without me," Kitty muttered petulantly. "Perhaps I should cry until he makes Mrs Forster invite me too."

"What a good idea," said Mrs Bennet. "Perhaps we can simply ask Mrs Forster to bring Kitty as well. It will hardly make a difference in their house to have two guests instead of one."

Darcy could withstand no more. He turned around from facing out the window. "Neither of you should go," he said curtly. "You are behaving as children. And you, madam," he looked at Mrs Bennet, "should not encourage them."

Elizabeth did not believe she could feel more mortified.

"Mr Darcy, may I speak to you outside," she requested curtly, and walked out the front entrance without checking that he was following her.

He joined her and closed the door to the house.

"How could you say that?" she hissed.

"How could I?" he asked, astonished. "Were you even listening to them?"

"That does not excuse your behaviour. You are a guest here."

"I was unsure about your youngest sisters and mother when I was last here," he said, "but this is far worse than I remembered. Perhaps they manage to control themselves somewhat in company and the scene I witnessed today is more in line with their true natures."

Elizabeth was red with both anger and embarrassment. "Yes, they need to watch their tongues better, and I am not pleased with them either, but they are still my family. You cannot be so intolerant towards them."

"Miss Lydia will rush headlong into ruination if she is allowed to go off amongst the militia with hardly a chaperone, and if Miss Catherine goes too they shall race for the honours. And your mother! Does she even realise how she upset Miss Mary with her thoughtlessness? She is only thinking of herself and how quickly she can marry you all off, instead of taking care to ensure anyone's safety or happiness."

"That is enough," she said sternly. "I will speak with my father about my sisters' and mother's behaviour. But my mother only wants to see us all established. How is that different from any other mother you have met? Including, might I add, your aunt, Lady Catherine, whom you somehow managed not to berate no matter how rudely she spoke to me."

"Few mothers are as vulgar as yours," he snapped.

Elizabeth crossed her arms and looked away. Her mind was in a tumult.

"This is my family, and I love them, flaws and all," she finally said. "If you cannot be civil to them then you should leave."

Darcy hesitated. He had barely been there a quarter of an hour. He did not want to spend their first day in Hertfordshire arguing. He knew he should apologise and try again inside, despite his sense of propriety crying out against the crass behaviour he would be forced to continue witnessing.

He was just about to do that when Mrs Bennet's voice floated to them from an upper window. "What are you so upset about, anyhow, Mary? It is not as though you will never marry at all."

He left.

Chapter Text

"It is my fault," Mr Bennet sighed. He removed his spectacles and rubbed his eyes.

"It is not your fault that a guest reprimanded your wife," Elizabeth said.

They were sitting in his study an hour after Mr Darcy's departure, and she had told him every word that had passed, including her own quarrel with Darcy.

"Oh, he certainly should not have done it, but I know he knows he should not have. I am not convinced any of the rest understand their errors. Including you."

"Me?" Elizabeth asked. "I told him I was unhappy with their actions as well."

"Yet you only reacted to him, but not them. You asked him to be civil to them, but did not expect them to be civil to each other." 

"I know what they are like, but I had forgotten how judgmental and proud he can be. He ignores bad behaviour in his own relations and chastises mine."

"Do you truly believe he would allow his sister to speak the way Lydia did?" her father asked pointedly.

"Well, not her," she conceded. "But he is her guardian."

"He expects Kitty and Lydia to be his sisters, too, one day. He is personally invested in their good behaviour. I believe he was reacting as a brother, not as a guest. Which brings me back to my point: it is my fault the conflict even started. I have been busy with the changes to the farm, and congratulating myself on Mary's improvement and engagement, even though she was always the most motivated of the three of them. I kept Lydia and Kitty under control in public but still did not spend enough time with them at home. When they seemed to be behaving themselves I made the mistake of relaxing some rules while you were away—hence Lydia befriending Mrs Forster."

He shook his head. "I told her she may only go conditionally on continued good behaviour. This invitation was clearly too much excitement for her, and is sowing discord with Kitty and Mary, too. Of course she will not go now."

After a few minutes in thought, Elizabeth said, "I suppose a few months was not long enough to expect lasting change, and they are always worse at home than in public. They are both still young. I shall be more vigilant with them now that I am home again."

"And I, as well," he nodded. "I have grown complacent and have been slipping back into my old ways, too. I should have been with everyone this morning instead of reading in here."

"Every part was badly done. Mr Darcy must be angry with us all—except for poor Mary." She began to fidget. "I am worried about what you said earlier about him expecting them to behave as his sisters ought, and the message it sends him that I defended them instead of him. Do you think—could this proof of family weakness, including my own, have been bad enough to chase him away?"

She stood and began to pace the room. "Does he truly believe Lydia will ruin us one day? Is he already on his way back to London?"

"Do not panic, Lizzy. Sit."

She obeyed, wringing her hands.

"I will be completely honest with you. Among aristocrats, even moreso than with us, reputation is everything. Anything he and his relations do is discussed and scrutinised, and his status in society depends on their impeccable propriety. A scandal with his wife's sister will not be known only in Meryton and forgotten after a month; it will have lasting consequences to him and, more importantly, his sister. That is his fear with Lydia."

"Then if I tell him no one is going to Brighton, and that you are watching the family more closely again, do you think he will still want to marry me?"

"I cannot answer that," he replied. "I think he will, but you shall have to see tomorrow if he comes."

Elizabeth received little comfort from those words.

"Now, I have several more conversations to conduct," Mr Bennet said. "Please send in your mother."

Elizabeth hurried up Oakham Mount early the next morning. She had spent most of the remainder of the day before with Mary who, despite her own worries, insisted on hearing everything about Mr Darcy that she did not know. Talking about him and reexamining the disaster from that morning only added to her fear, which kept her awake well into the night. As she made her ascent alone she prayed harder than she ever had before that he would know she would be going there and not be too angry to join her.

Her relief when she saw him watching the sunrise from her rock was so overwhelming she nearly wept.

"Fitzwilliam," she called.

He jumped up. "Elizabeth," he said as he came towards her.

Forsaking propriety, she ran and wrapped her arms around his waist. She could no longer hold back her tears when he enfolded her in his arms and held her closely.

They stood together embracing fiercely until she felt composed enough to speak.

"Fitzwilliam, I love you," she said. "I love you and I am sorry."

He squeezed her impossibly tighter. She could feel his heart beating in his chest.

"I love you too, sweetheart. And I am sorry, too."

They continued to hold each other. Slowly, all their fears of a breach melted away and were replaced by comfort. He finally managed to tear himself away and took her hand. "Shall we talk?" he asked, indicating the rock.

They sat with their fingers entwined. "I apologise for losing my temper with your family," he said as opening.

She shook her head. "They deserved it. I have not seen such a display from any of them in many months."

She looked at him earnestly. "I have been thinking about why I chastised only you in the moment. I believe I am too accustomed to bad behaviour from them, and my corrections to my sisters being ignored. Not only did I hold you to a higher standard than them, I knew you were the only one who would even listen to me." She shook her head again. "I was very unfair to you."

"I believe I had a visceral reaction to the idea of your sisters going off on their own due to Georgiana's experience last year," he said. 

"Rightfully so," she replied and squeezed his hand. "But Brighton is out of the question now. My father feels guilty over his recent lapse and is increasing his involvement in the family again. I do not know what he said to my mother yesterday but she was completely subdued at dinner, and even apologised to Mary in front of everyone."

"I am glad your father is taking the situation in hand. What I witnessed yesterday was rather alarming."

Elizabeth agreed with a blush that it was very bad.

"I have also been considering your complaint about my tolerance of my aunt compared to your mother. I believe I have come to prize rank too highly over the years, when I should know that character is what matters most. Furthermore, though I still disapprove of your mother's methods, I now realise she believes she is assisting her daughters, whereas my aunt meddles in the lives of everyone around her for her pleasure alone. That knowledge should help me be more patient with Mrs Bennet."

"Hmm," Elizabeth considered his words. "I think there is truth in what you say but you are also being a little too hard on yourself. If you truly valued rank more than character you would not socialise with my aunt and uncle Gardiner. Or marry me, for that matter."

"Which reminds me—" he smiled. 

She laughed as he pulled off her bonnet and gloves. "You truly meant what you said about my bonnets!"

"Like your spirit, your hair is beautiful and should be kept free. Besides, nothing should ever obscure my view of your fine eyes."

He took her face in his hands and kissed her.

An unknown amount of time later they were walking back down the hill.

"When shall we marry, dearest Elizabeth?" 

"I would gladly marry you tomorrow, but…" she bit her lip and looked up at him apprehensively.

"Do you want to wait for your sister Mary to have her day first?"

She nodded. "Especially after the things my mother said yesterday, I want to ensure she knows her wedding is as important as ours."

"I understand," he said. "We will decide later. It is enough for now to be able to tell everyone, and we will still see each other every day."

He debated internally for a moment, then decided to tell her. 

"I was forced to disclose our engagement already to my cousin when he questioned me after we drove you to your uncle's, and then he told his father."

"I see. How did your uncle react?"

Darcy shrugged. "As well as I could expect. He is unhappy that I am marrying out of our circle but he is pragmatic enough to prefer controlling the family image over suffering a broken engagement."

"I believe this is another point in my mother's favour," she teased. "At least you need never fear your welcome into my family."

"I will never allow anyone to disrespect you, Elizabeth," he answered seriously.

"I know. I do not like being considered an interloper, but," she squeezed his arm, "it will be well worth it."

He left her at the same crossroads he always did before, promising to call in a couple hours and explaining he would leave Georgiana at home again until the storm was blown over.

When he arrived at Longbourn later he found the entire family assembled. Conversation stalled and everyone looked at him uncomfortably. He bowed deeply.

"Mr Bennet, Mrs Bennet, I apologise for my outburst while a guest in your home yesterday. It was not my place to admonish your daughters, and especially not you, Mrs Bennet. I hope you can forgive me."

Mr Bennet nodded and Mrs Bennet said, "Think nothing of it, sir."

"I assure you, it will not happen again." He turned to Kitty and Lydia. "Miss Catherine and Miss Lydia, I apologise for my harsh words to you as well."

"It is fine," they both said.

After a pointed look from their father, Kitty added, "We are sorry for offending you."

"And I as well," Mrs Bennet said.

Darcy bowed his thanks.

Everyone looked at each other for a minute.

"There now, everyone is sorry and everyone is forgiven," Mr Bennet said jovially. "Come, Mr Darcy, sit with us. I was just discussing my intention to spend more time as a family, possibly even taking a short trip together."

Darcy cleared his throat and glanced at Elizabeth. "I hope I am not overstepping by offering a suggestion, but I would be happy to host all of you at Pemberley for part of the summer."

Mrs Bennet's hands shook, rattling her teacup and saucer together, but with great effort she refrained from voicing her excitement at the idea. Her fear of offending her prospective son-in-law was too great.

"Would that please you, Mrs Bennet?" he asked gently.

"Yes, very much," she smiled timidly.

"Thank you for your kind offer, Mr Darcy. It sounds like the perfect thing." Mr Bennet looked at his middle daughter. "Mary, your wedding is our first priority. You shall tell us if we will go to Pemberley before or after your day."

"I would like a small wedding in three weeks like Jane did, Mama, if you do not mind too much," she said hesitantly. "We want to be married without fanfare."

"Whatever you like, my dear girl," her mother replied.

Darcy spoke up, "Miss Mary, if you do not have other plans, you and Mr Lucas may still join us at Pemberley for your wedding trip. I assure you it is large enough to allow you your privacy. We could all go for the month of June."

Mrs Bennet's hands shook again at the thought of how large and grand his estate was, but again contained her effusions.

"I will speak with him when he arrives here later, and answer you soon," Mary smiled. "Thank you."

The tension in the room, so palpable at the beginning of the conversation, ebbed away, eventually leading to a cheerful conversation about all the things they would do during their holiday. Horseback riding, short trips to the Peaks, picnics, and shopping in Lambton were all canvassed.

Elizabeth smiled warmly at her betrothed. She was pleased with their newfound family harmony, and even more with the prospect of seeing her future home. They all would celebrate Mary's wedding, then head to Pemberley for adventure.

Dear Jane,

It has been a very eventful week at Longbourn since my return. The announcement will be in the newspapers in a few days but I must tell you myself, my dearest sister: Mr Darcy and I are engaged to be married. I do not know how much you may have suspected while we were there or if this news comes as a shock. I must apologise to you profusely for hiding our attachment from you during my visit, for it was too important that Lady Catherine not know. I hated being unable to confide in you and even hid our courtship from Mary as a result. I know it was silly to feel that if you could not know then no one in our family should, and I find I cannot help apologising to her repeatedly, but she assures me she is not angry. I hope you too can forgive my deception. 

I assure you, I am overjoyed at the prospect of being Mr Darcy's wife, for he is the very best of men and far too kind to our family and me. One of the many ways he has proven this is in his generous offer to host our family at Pemberley for a month following Mary's wedding. He is even allowing us to delay our wedding plans until after these other events. He has visited with Papa several times, I suppose to discuss settlements and escape the planning for Mary's wedding, and it brings me joy to see the two most important men to me getting on so well. I know he is very pleased with my growing friendship with his sister, Georgiana, as well.

You have spoken of visiting Longbourn in a few months and nothing would bring me greater happiness than if you were able to time your trip to attend my wedding. After visiting Pemberley for all of June, then calling the banns and giving Mama time to plan the breakfast, I imagine the wedding will occur in August. Please, oh please tell me Lady Catherine will give Mr Collins leave and you may come!

Kitty and Lydia are unhappy with all the attention on Mary and me, especially now that the militia has departed for Brighton without them, but our father is taking a firmer hand in guiding them than even before and I am doing my part to assist. Even Mama supports the new restrictive rules, as she is too afraid of the girls offending and chasing off Mr Darcy. I believe she tells them when they pout that they need only bide their time until I am married and can host them in London for a season to meet rich husbands. Well, if that is what helps prevent them from being wild now, I may even concede to the scheme in a year or two, provided they prove themselves worthy in the meantime. Only if Mr Darcy agrees, of course; he is far more qualified than I to determine if or when they are ready for London society.

This letter has gone on long enough, so I will end it here. I know your first concern is my love and respect for my future husband and I am pleased to assure you I fully expect to be the most happily married woman in all of England. Please allow me to apologise again for not telling you sooner about Mr Darcy, and do tell me how Lady Catherine receives the news. 

Your loving and very happy sister,

Elizabeth

"Mr Bingley, you must tell me everything about the mysterious Miss Bennet who has captured Mr Darcy!"

Bingley suppressed a sigh. This was his third social event in a week in which he had been introduced to a young lady who only appeared interested in him to gain information on this subject.

"She is pretty, intelligent, and a lively conversationalist. They are very well suited," he answered patiently.

"She must have quite a large dowry, for surely he would never marry someone so unknown otherwise?" the young lady prodded.

"I do not know the details, but it seems it was enough to satisfy him."

"Or,"—she leaned in conspiratorially—"was it perhaps not exactly his choice?"

"I do not know what you are suggesting, madam, but I assure you my friend is very happy to be marrying Miss Bennet," he answered stiffly. "If you will excuse me, I see someone I must not miss."

He approached a passing waiter and quickly drank a proffered glass of wine.

He was desperately sick of London. He had always been someone who was happy no matter where he laid his head, but lately his longing to return to the country was growing rapidly. Having learned that Darcy was vacating Netherfield before the end of May, he decided to return to his leased home on the first of June and perhaps invite a few other gentlemen. Caroline would be spending the summer in Bath with friends; he suspected her distress over Darcy's engagement was great, but by now she knew not to speak of it with him.

He looked around the ballroom in disgust. Everyone he saw was shallow, insipid, and cared for nothing but gossip and self-indulgence. Had they always been like this? Had he?

He knew Caroline still hoped he would marry a well-connected heiress but no one had appealed to him since his near disaster with Miss Churchill. Was the difference truly due to him opening his eyes to his own interactions with women and beginning to make an effort to know them as people? Would it really be so difficult to meet someone he admired for more than her beauty and flattery?

It had surprised him when he received a letter from Darcy only days after his return to Hertfordshire announcing his engagement to Elizabeth Bennet, but in this moment he began to understand. His friend had been disillusioned by society for years; of course he would leap in with both feet the moment he found a woman he could genuinely love. Bingley wondered whether the secret was to meet more women who were not connected to the Ton.

He shrugged. Getting Caroline married was still his first priority. By next January she would not be his problem one way or another, and then he could try to find a life partner as perfect for him as Darcy's.

Dear Lizzy,

I am so very, very pleased by your news! Indeed, you wrote of Mr Darcy so often last autumn I began to wonder if you would make it to Kent at all, until of course you were beset by misunderstandings and his departure. I confess I did consider the possibility after that first day when you talked for a long time in the garden; but then he hardly called without Colonel Fitzwilliam afterwards. You sly thing, I now suppose you were meeting him outside the parsonage like you did at Oakham Mount?

At any rate, of course I understand and forgive your hiding the news from me. Indeed, I have cause to believe Lady Catherine is quite distraught, although I have not spoken with her directly about the matter. Even my husband has begun to avoid going to Rosings unless he is summoned, and I have not been invited at all in nearly a fortnight. Fortunately, she had already given us leave to visit Hertfordshire and I am certain she is honourable enough to keep her promise. I will do everything I can to be there for your wedding, though of course my success depends on others.

From what I saw of Mr Darcy, he is an intelligent, good man, and you know he charmed me on our first meeting. You seem so well matched and so happy that you have even exceeded my hopes for your marriage. Please pass onto him Mr Collins' and my most sincere congratulations.

I am pleased to hear Papa is serious in managing Kitty and Lydia. I do believe that with close guidance and the example of you and Mr Darcy before them, they will see the rewards possible from more mature behaviour.

I must now write to Mary as it is nearly her wedding day. I will tell her how I wish I could be there, but please do ensure she knows it.

Always your loving sister,

Jane

"You wrote of me often?" Mr Darcy asked with a grin.

Elizabeth laughed. "I knew you would latch onto that part. I should have summarised the letter instead of handing it over. I did not even know I mentioned you in every letter until she told me so."

"If I had had my way, we would indeed have married before you could visit her," he said. 

"I wish I had talked to you instead of shunning you that night," she sighed.

"I would have had to leave with Bingley the next day, regardless," he reminded her. "Perhaps it is better that only one of us spent the winter pining."

"I believe I did anyway, but because I thought I had no hope instead of pining because I knew you were kept away unwillingly."

He kissed her forehead. "It is no matter now. We shall be married very soon."

"Do you think Lady Catherine will allow them to come?"

"Hmm. I believe she would renege in her anger, but she cannot stop me from collecting them in my carriage. She needs me more than I need her and I have already once threatened her with estrangement, which is likely why she did not reply to my letter instead of replying to abuse us. The true question is whether Mr Collins would disobey her in that way."

They pondered this in silence for a few moments.

"I wish you did not need to leave immediately after the wedding tomorrow," Elizabeth lamented. 

He squeezed her hand. "Me too, but I require some time to have Pemberley prepared for guests."

"But did you have to take Georgiana with you? All four of us will miss her."

"I am sorry. She too has become quite attached to your entire family, once she stopped feeling intimidated by your two youngest sisters."

"I think they are trying to impress her," Elizabeth chuckled. "They want to prove they can be proper ladies like her so she will introduce them to her vast acquaintance of single, rich men."

"Of course. The vast acquaintance being one of our cousins."

"Do not tell Kitty and Lydia that! I am willing to do whatever it takes to make them be good until they are safely married."

"They have potential, and I believe most of their less admirable behaviour is merely attention-seeking. Your father is doing the correct thing by spending more time with them in positive interactions, as are you."

"I hope he will sustain his effort this time when I am gone. I shall worry about them once we are married."

Darcy smiled. "We will visit sometimes, and I will distract you the rest of the time."

"Of that I am certain. Until that day comes, however, I will miss sneaking out to the garden with you like this."

Darcy laughed and leaned forward. "And what part of this will you miss the most?"

She met him in the middle and they shared a lingering kiss. She buried her fingers into the curls at the nape of his neck. "Our conversations, of course. What else?"

He pecked her lips. "Clearly. But we shall see each other again in but a few days, and,"—he pecked her again—"Pemberley has many hiding places."

Chapter Text

The wedding of John and Mary Lucas, on Tuesday, the twenty-sixth of May, was lovely in its simplicity. They had the ceremony at Longbourn chapel followed by a small breakfast at the manor with only their families and a few close friends in attendance. It was exactly what the couple wanted.

They would spend the night at the inn in Meryton before moving to Lucas Lodge. John had asked Mary if she would like to lease a house of their own, at least for a while, but having grown up in a large household she was happy to save their money staying in his family home to which he was heir. They would also be joining the Bennets and Darcys at Pemberley.

Mr Bennet was bursting with pride at how his studious, awkward, and meek Mary had grown into a woman who was broad-minded and comfortable in her own skin, and settling with a kind man who appreciated her as she was. Mrs Bennet was happy to see another daughter married; and although this union was not as beneficial as Jane's, nor as splendid as Elizabeth's, it had the advantage of keeping one of her girls in close proximity. Kitty and Lydia anxiously wondered when it would be their turns.

The end of the wedding breakfast was an emotional one for Elizabeth. Not only was her beloved departing nearly a week before everyone else to prepare Pemberley, but she was struck with the full impact of Mary leaving Longbourn. It would not have been so difficult, since Lucas Lodge was only two miles away, but she knew that with this wedding over it would soon be her turn and then she would be separated from her sisters by over one hundred and fifty miles. She was grateful that almost her entire family—present and future—would be together for a full month before such a great change, and could only wish for Jane's presence to make that month complete.

It was a busier week between the wedding and their journey than Elizabeth had supposed it would be. Her mother was a bundle of nerves preparing for the trip, insisting on everyone packing their best clothes to stay in such a grand house, and constantly thinking of things she absolutely needed to send her harried servants to buy in Meryton. It took the three sisters considerable energy to keep her comparatively calm while making their own preparations. 

Mrs Bennet was further agitated by the intelligence given by Darcy that Mr Bingley was returning to Netherfield the very day of their departure. She had evidently forgiven his abandonment of Miss Churchill once it occurred to her to hope he would turn his eye towards Lydia or Kitty after their return.

Before they knew it, it was the first of June and they were setting out in Darcy's largest carriage—kindly sent from Pemberley to ensure their comfortable ride—followed by John and Mary in the Bennets' carriage for the three-day drive.

Elizabeth was astonished at her first view of Pemberley. It was far larger and lovelier than she had imagined from Darcy's descriptions, and its harmony with nature was everything she could have wished for. Her amazement did not wane throughout the thirty-minute ascent after their first sight.

"Oh Lizzy," Mrs Bennet gasped. "I can hardly believe it! And it shall be your home! How rich you will be!"

Elizabeth could only smile and hold her mother's hand in response, while her sisters commented on its size and the number of windows, and her father looked on in silent awe.

Darcy and Georgiana were waiting at the entrance to greet them with wide smiles. Kitty and Lydia rushed to embrace their new friend, while Elizabeth could only give a proper curtsy to her betrothed in front of her family.

The large, noisy group entered the house for a brief tour. The newlyweds were given a fine suite of rooms in their own wing, with the understanding that they would not always be joining the party, while the Bennets all had rooms in the regular guest wing. Elizabeth could not help wondering how luxurious the family wing must be, given the fineness of her current chamber.

Dinner was very merry. If Kitty and Lydia were rather more boisterous than Mr Bennet would ordinarily allow them to be, nobody could fault them this time in their excitement. Everyone discussed what to do on their first full day tomorrow and they settled on a picnic held in a clearing in the nearby woods, where there was a stream with a waterfall and a lovely view of the estate.

The next day was idyllic. While not quite as noisy as dinner the night before, and missing Mary and John, the midday picnic was still a jolly affair. Elizabeth admired the woods they traversed and took note of the many paths she saw for future exploration.

After all the walking, the wine and the sun, most of the ladies wanted to rest in their rooms upon their return to the house. Mr Bennet declared he would spend the next few hours till dinner exploring the library. As everyone walked away one by one Darcy and Elizabeth found themselves alone. 

She smiled up at him. "I have been here for twenty-four hours and we have hardly said two words to each other."

He took her hand and said, "Come with me." 

He pulled her down the hall and to a side staircase she had not seen before. They climbed up, step after step, landing after landing, higher than she thought should be possible even in a house this size. "Fitzwilliam, where on earth are you taking me?" she laughed.

"Our first hiding place," he answered, and continued to lead her without releasing her hand.

At last, out of breath and her curiosity piqued, they ran out of stairs to climb, exited through a door, and to Elizabeth's surprise they were outside. They were on the roof of Pemberley.

She slowly made her way to the centre of the roof, looking around her in amazement. Once she stopped walking she continued to turn around to take in the spectacular views. To one side she could see the woods, which were more extensive than she had realised, and could even make out the clearing with the stream they had vacated so recently. Elsewhere were the farms, some of the fields dotted with sheep. A little further away in opposite directions was a pair of small market towns she supposed must be Lambton and Kympton. In the distance to the rear of the house loomed the craggy Peaks.

"This is wonderful," she breathed when she was finally able to speak. "I have never seen such beauty!"

Darcy came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her back against his chest.

"All that is mine will be yours," he told her. "Much of what we can see will be yours. And my house in London, and my smaller estate in Scotland; and if I had more to give you, I would."

She spun around in his arms. He lightly clasped his hands at her lower back as she grasped the lapels of his coat.

"Fitzwilliam, 'tis too much!" she cried. "This is incredible, but I do not need it. I need only you. I love you."

He kissed her lightly, tenderly. "I know," he said simply. "And that is one of the many reasons I love you. All this shall be yours regardless. It shall be ours."

She wrapped her hands around his neck and kissed him deeply. He responded hungrily, tightening his hold on her, flattening his palm against her back, tilting his head to increase the contact between their lips. She startled a little when his tongue touched hers, but quickly found she enjoyed the sensation and boldly returned the action. 

The sun beamed down upon them. A light breeze grazed them. Sheep bleated faintly in the distance. They noticed none of it. All that existed was each other, and nothing had ever felt more magical. It was unlike any other kiss they had shared before.

At last he gently eased away and trailed his lips across her cheek, still holding her tightly.

"Marry me tomorrow," he murmured against her ear.

"What?" She abruptly came out of her daze and pulled back to look at him. He appeared completely serious. "How?"

"The settlements are signed, I have a special license, and my rector can be ready at a moment's notice. We can marry here tomorrow if you say the word."

"You planned this?" she asked in bewilderment. 

He grinned. "Your father and I spoke of more than just books those times in his library."

He kissed her forehead, her nose, and her lips. "Elizabeth, will you marry me tomorrow?"

"Yes," she whispered. There was no other answer she could imagine giving.

She yelped in surprise as he picked her up and spun her around, laughing. "Fitzwilliam, put me down!" she giggled.

He sat on the floor with her tucked in his lap. "When did you decide to do this?" she asked him.

"Almost as soon as I gave the invitation. I found, the more I considered this family trip, that I could not tolerate the idea of you being here in any capacity other than as my wife," he replied. "One of my reasons for leaving Hertfordshire early was to acquire the license in London." He paused to kiss her temple. "I especially could not tolerate the idea of you leaving after the month was over. This is where you belong: mistress of my heart and home."

Elizabeth pulled his head down for another kiss.

After a couple minutes she pulled away and raised an eyebrow. "But what made you so certain I would agree to the scheme?"

He chuckled. "I believe you have observed once before that I am accustomed to having my own way. Your family is here and Georgiana is here, making it perfect for a wedding. And then we may disappear to our chambers while I send everyone else to the Peaks for a couple of days."

"It is perfect," she sighed and leaned against him.

They remained in that position for some time, observing the landscape before them. Elizabeth did not know how she ever could have been so lucky as to gain the love of such a wonderful man.

"I want us to marry tomorrow," she said. "We will. I only wish Jane could have been here."

"Your wish is my command," he smiled.

He snapped his fingers theatrically and pointed over her shoulder. She turned and squinted. She almost did not see it, but there, still near the horizon, was the unmistakable form of a carriage rolling up the road towards the house.

She gasped and leapt to her feet. 

"No!" she exclaimed. "Do not lie to me! That cannot be Jane!"

He stood up next to her and took her hand. "Mr and Mrs Collins will arrive in approximately half-an-hour. Which means,"—he draped his arm across her shoulders—"we have a little more time up here before the house is once again thrown into chaos."

She laughed and hugged him close. "You are a marvel. You are the very best."

They held each other, watching the carriage approach. Neither believed it was possible to be any happier. All of the most important people in their lives would soon be under one roof for the very first time. And tomorrow, eight months to the day after their first meeting, the two of them would become one.

"Jane!" 

Elizabeth, Mary, Kitty and Lydia all flew to their eldest sister the moment she exited the carriage. There was shouting, laughter, and tears. After she could wait no longer, Mrs Bennet squeezed in for her share of the hugs and noise, exclaiming that Jane was still as beautiful as ever. Several minutes of fussing later Jane managed to reach her father for a tight embrace. Mr Bennet discreetly wiped away a tear that threatened to fall. For most of them it was their first meeting with Jane in nine months.

Darcy beheld the scene with wonder. For all his reservations about the propriety shown by certain members of this family, it was clear they loved each other dearly. It was the kind of fierce, affectionate, selfless love no one in his own family ever displayed, not even when Colonel Fitzwilliam returned from months away at war. Perhaps his family's expression of affection was more outwardly proper, but who had the happier lives? He was grateful to now have Elizabeth to teach him this kind of joy.

He and Georgiana exchanged a look, and he knew she was having the same thoughts. 

Mr Collins cleared his throat, hoping to be acknowledged too, and everyone looked to him in shock. He had been completely forgotten in the commotion, but that was not the only source of their surprise. He looked quite altered from the last time any of them had seen him—even Elizabeth and Darcy. He had lost weight, and frown lines were etched into his cheeks and forehead. It was the look of a troubled man.

Everyone greeted him, if not with the same enthusiasm shown his wife, then at least with politeness.

The group repaired to the parlour to talk while awaiting the call to dress for dinner. There was so much to say, from so many people, that despite the amount of conversation none of the Bennet ladies felt they had caught up at all yet when it was time to go change.

Elizabeth managed to steal a moment alone with her sister while walking her to her chamber. 

"Jane, is Mr Collins well?" she whispered anxiously.

Jane frowned and shook her head slowly.

"It is difficult for him right now. He is out of favour with Lady Catherine due to your engagement. You know he venerates her rather too much, and her displeasure is putting quite a strain on him. He is torn between loyalty to me and to her; he came here because he knew it was important to me, but has been fretting constantly about making her angry. He fears losing his living though I have tried to remind him his appointment is for life."

"Oh Jane, I am sorry you will suffer for my marriage!" Elizabeth cried.

"I hope her anger will be of short duration. I cannot imagine anyone holding a grudge against someone else's happiness for very long. After all, it is not my husband's fault that Mr Darcy did not want to marry Miss de Bourgh."

"No indeed, for he decided against her many years ago. But you are the usurper's sister, and in close proximity to abuse at her convenience."

"I do believe she will see reason. She simply needs time to adjust to the idea. Perhaps getting away from her for a fortnight will help."

Elizabeth was skeptical, but replied that she hoped Jane would be correct. They reached their chambers and separated to dress.

Conversation at dinner continued where it had left off earlier. The Darcys opted to remain mostly quiet out of respect for the reunion occurring in their home. Eventually, however, there was a lull that gave Mr Darcy the opportunity he was waiting for. He stood up. 

"Mr and Mrs Bennet, Mr and Mrs Collins, Mr and Mrs Lucas, Elizabeth, Miss Catherine and Miss Lydia. Georgiana and I are delighted to host all of you here in our home and have felt exceedingly privileged to witness your family's enthusiasm for life and love for one another. I believe I have learned some new things about all of you even in these first two days that increases my excitement to join your family through marriage.

"We have many activities planned for the rest of this month, but the next event will, I hope, be one of the happiest memories for all of us."

He reached for Elizabeth's hand, who was sitting to his right, and bade her stand beside him.

"I am overjoyed to announce that tomorrow at noon, here at Pemberley, Elizabeth and I will be married."

An uproar ensued. Mrs Bennet was partly overwhelmed by the excitement of a surprise wedding, and partly disappointed in losing her opportunity to parade Elizabeth and Darcy around her neighbours before hosting the finest wedding they had ever seen. She expressed both sentiments. It was barely noticed, however, over the effusions of varying force from her four other daughters and Georgiana. John Lucas issued his congratulations without being heard by anyone. Mr Bennet looked on in amusement while Darcy and Elizabeth smiled happily at each other.

After a couple of minutes, Mr Collins felt it was his turn to be heard; he stood and cleared his throat. The engaged couple took their seats.

"Pardon me if I am speaking out of turn, but as a clergyman and, moreover, the heir to Longbourn, which of course is not so noble an estate as this, but it is still a fine estate that I will be pleased to become shepherd to—many years in the future, that is,"—he nodded respectfully towards Mr Bennet—"I feel it is incumbent on me to say my piece. I must first thank Mr Darcy, whose gracious condescension and generosity has brought us all here today, and I hope all of my sisters are suitably grateful,"—he looked around to assess their looks of gratitude, and whatever he saw must have satisfied him, for he carried on—"as I say, suitably grateful for the opportunity herein to reside in such a grand home among such august company as Mr and Miss Darcy. Not the least grateful, of course, should be my sister Elizabeth for gaining the notice of such a man and managing to win his hand, even over the much more eligible Miss Anne de Bourgh, and despite the objections of Mr Darcy's aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and his uncle, the Earl of Matlock. Your elevation shall be a great change from your more modest upbringing and I can only hope you will be a credit to our family and show proper humility and respect for your superior new husband and his noble relations and peers."

Darcy's countenance was darkening rapidly. Elizabeth gently squeezed his hand under the table.

Mr Collins realised he was straying from his point, and noticed a deep blush on his wife's face. He supposed Jane was being modest at what she must know he was about to say and pressed on.

"Anyway, as I was saying, we must all thank Mr Darcy for the opportunity to all be together here today, despite the disapproval of certain prominent relations for the imminent union, but Jane and I have our own announcement that certainly everybody can approve of and take appropriate delight in."

"No, not now—" she quietly entreated, not wanting to steal her sister's moment, but alas! It was too late. He pulled her to her feet.

"Jane and I would like to announce that we are expecting the future heir to Longbourn, or at least we should all hope it shall be a son, due to the continuing entail that makes daughters unfortunately less valuable than sons, as delightful as they are. He will arrive in November."

Everyone was silent for a few moments, uncertain whether he had quite finished speaking, and uncertain what exactly had been said and whether they should feel insulted. Eventually, however, the salient point sunk in.

"Jane," Mrs Bennet's voice shook, "Jane, you are with child?"

"Yes, Mama," she answered, and lightly touched her stomach.

The second uproar of this dinner ensued. Jane fought her embarrassment at her husband's speech and at the attention that should not even be on her tonight, and accepted her family's congratulations with her usual grace and serenity. 

Elizabeth was genuinely happy for her sister and partook in the celebration. When no one was watching she leaned over to Darcy, who still looked disgruntled, and whispered in his ear, "Please forgive him. He is too accustomed to deferring to his patroness, and is confused as to how to treat you and me as his relations in light of her anger."

He nodded, attempting to understand. "At least, after tonight, we shall not have to see much of him for a few days," he whispered back, and she chuckled.

The second evening at Pemberley was even more merry than the first, due to the exciting promises of a wedding the next day and a baby in a few months. Before going to their own chambers for the night, the five Bennet sisters gathered together on Elizabeth's bed, just as they had done the night before Jane's wedding many months ago.

After half-an-hour of cheerful conversation Kitty and Lydia departed, and Elizabeth welcomed the moment alone with her two married sisters.

"Jane, Mary," she said in a low voice, "Mama pulled me aside earlier tonight to tell me what to expect on the wedding night. I presume she gave you both the same speech. Is there much truth to what she said?"

They answered simultaneously. "Yes," said Jane. "No," said Mary.

Elizabeth could not help laughing. "That was not helpful!"

Jane and Mary looked at each other.

"I think every woman's experience will depend on her husband," Mary said slowly. "There is potential for pain and potential for pleasure. Relations may be frequent or rare. Every marriage is different."

Elizabeth looked from one to the other. "Will I—do you think my experience will be more like Mary's or like Jane's?"

Mary glanced at Jane a touch uncomfortably. "You know Mr Darcy best," was all she said to Elizabeth.

Jane added, "Mr Darcy loves you very much. He will be gentle with you, I am certain. And after the first couple of times you and your body will be accustomed to it. You have nothing to fear."

"Will it hurt?" Elizabeth asked.

Jane and Mary looked at each other again.

"It might, but only the first one or two times," Jane said.

"If Mr Darcy proceeds slowly and is… attentive… throughout, it will be much better," Mary added with a blush.

Elizabeth studied them both. All three women were rather embarrassed. She decided to drop the subject.

The morning of her wedding day dawned bright; it was a beautiful June day. Elizabeth awoke and looked around her chamber. After only two nights at Pemberley, she would move out of this room and reside in the Mistress's chambers permanently. That thought made her smile. Her happy solitude did not last long as all the women in her family burst into her room to begin the chaotic preparations.

The ceremony uniting Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet was short but meaningful, only twelve people in the room including the rector of Kympton who officiated. Mary and her husband served as their witnesses, to avoid asking the Collinses to be put in a potentially awkward position. 

Mrs Reynolds, the housekeeper, was overjoyed with her master marrying and from what she had seen so far of Elizabeth she was pleased with her new mistress. She showed her approval in the sumptuous feast that followed the wedding, where there were more fine foods and fine wines than twelve people could be expected to consume in an afternoon.

After only a couple hours of merrymaking Darcy spirited his new wife out of the room without anyone noticing. 

"It is time for our second hiding place," he said with a wicked grin as he hurried her down the hall and up the stairs. When they reached the hallway containing their suite he picked her up to carry her the rest of the way amid her laughter.

Mr and Mrs Darcy reached the Master's chambers where he sat her on the edge of the bed. He locked all the doors then sat down beside her, angling himself to face her, and took her hands.

"Are you nervous?" he asked her.

She bit her lip and studied his face. If her mother and aunt Phillips were to be believed, after hearing all their little comments about men over the years, he must be bursting with impatience for this moment. Yet here they sat and his expression held nothing but loving concern. Even in this, the realisation of his long-held hopes and his right as her husband, he cared only for her comfort above his own. Her heart swelled with the love she felt for this man.

"No," she said. "I trust you."

He smiled gently. "Did your mother have the opportunity to explain what happens?"

She gave a small laugh. "Yes, and my sisters explained some more, and I feel as confused as ever."

"Shall I attempt to clarify what confuses you? Is there anything you would like to ask me?"

She shook her head. "Show me."

And he did.

It was morning. 

Elizabeth felt different. 

It was later than her usual wake time, judging by the sunlight. Her hair was loose instead of braided. She was a touch sore in odd places. Her bed felt firmer, her pillow fluffier. As awareness increased, so did her confusion. She was… undressed? And what was in her bed with her?

Of course; she was married now! She smiled and snuggled closer to the warm body behind her.

"Good morning, Mrs Darcy," he mumbled into her neck and threw a heavy arm over her waist.

"Good morning, husband," she said as she turned over to face him. "Shall we go join everyone for breakfast?" 

"No." He kept his eyes closed.

She laughed. "We cannot stay here all day!"

"Yes we can, and in fact we should." He played with her hair that was draped over her shoulder.

"But… everyone will know what we are doing," she began to blush.

He finally opened his eyes, which showed his amusement at her modesty. "Everyone else has gone to the Peaks for a couple of days. We have Pemberley to ourselves."

"But… the servants will know."

He chuckled and shrugged. "They are paid well enough not to gossip. But if a few households in the area hear that we loitered in bed the day after marrying, what of it? They will learn that we are in love, which is hardly a secret. It is better than having them believe you married me for nefarious reasons."

He pressed kisses against her face, neck, shoulder.

"You are quite persuasive," she said as his lips and hands continued to travel. "It is not my desire to rise, I only thought we ought to."

"We ought not. We would not want people thinking you a fortune hunter, would we?"

"Definitely not," she whispered as he rolled atop her.

"Then we must stay exactly where we are. For the sake of your reputation."

Two Darcy carriages trundled north through Derbyshire. One contained Mrs Bennet with Jane, Mary, and their husbands, and the other was filled with Mr Bennet and the three youngest girls. They had departed quite early in the morning, and their inn was several hours away, so in the second carriage Kitty and Lydia slept while Georgiana and Mr Bennet read their books.

"Miss Darcy," Bennet said quietly to avoid disturbing his daughters, "it only occurred to me now that I have not seen Mrs Annesley since we arrived."

She giggled lightly. "With so many visitors, we felt her service as my companion was not needed this month. We sent her to visit her daughter nearby, with full wages of course."

"That is very generous of your brother. I do not know him well but he is clearly a good man."

"Oh, yes," she nodded earnestly. "He is highly respected by all our staff and tenants, and I could not ask for a better brother."

"I did not doubt any of that, but I am happy to hear it regardless."

He looked back to his book, intending to read again, while Georgiana studied him thoughtfully. She glanced at the other two girls who were still sound asleep.

"Mr Bennet, may I ask you something?"

"Certainly, Miss Darcy."

She hesitated, rather uncertain how to broach the subject that confused her.

"Mr Collins said my aunt is angry with the match my brother made with Elizabeth, and that is understandable because she wanted him for my cousin Anne, but I am concerned at hearing my uncle is very upset as well. I understand that they would consider your family too low—not that my brother and I do—but is it truly so bad?"

"The class structure in this country is a complex business. Mr Darcy is a gentleman and Lizzy is a gentleman's daughter, so they seem equal enough, but they are not. He has a place in high society, he is grandson of an Earl, and your family has a very old and respected name, besides your considerable coffers. I have none of those things."

She looked expectantly at him, hoping for more, so he continued.

"Most marriages, at least within your circles, are for convenience. They are business arrangements to benefit families rather than to advance the happiness of the couple in question. So, besides our comparative inequality, your uncle is also lamenting the lost possibility of beneficial political alliances for himself."

"Does he not want my brother to be happy?" Georgiana frowned.

"Possibly he does, but as a secondary concern. That is one way in which it is better to be born slightly lower, like me. I only hope for love matches for my daughters and I rejoice that it has happened more often than not so far."

"Would you allow one of your daughters to marry a steward's son if they were in love?—just as an example," she hastened to add.

He raised his eyebrows. He remembered that Wickham was handsome, charming, and the son of the Darcy family's former steward. That was interesting.

"I would not," he said simply. "We can make some allowances for love, as your brother did, but I also need to see my girls properly cared for. You are of an age with these two," he nodded at the slumbering bodies beside Georgiana. "All three of you are too young to determine who is an appropriate match. A charming exterior does not make a man necessarily suitable."

"No, it does not," she answered solemnly.

"That is why suitors require permission from fathers or guardians. We have the experience to identify the rakes and rogues. As mature and worldly as many young girls like to think of themselves, they simply do not have the life skills to marry without guidance."

"Even one year ago I thought I knew what was best in many matters," she agreed. "Now I know better. I am grateful for my brother's care and guidance. I do not know where I would be without him." She shuddered.

"I worry about my daughters constantly. I cannot watch them every minute of the day, and I fear some scoundrel taking advantage of them. I am certain your brother feels the same about you."

"He does."

"You are a good girl. Until you are old enough to know these things for yourself, it is better to be overly suspicious and chase a man off than to have too much misplaced trust. There will always be another gentleman who comes along, and there is no hurry to marry."

"Thank you, Mr Bennet." Georgiana looked out the window, reflecting on this conversation. She supposed it was not much she did not already know, but it was good to have the reminder that she was not ready to think about marriage. 

Lydia was awake. The first conversation, about Mrs Annesley and Mr Darcy, had woken her but she pretended to still be asleep in case she heard anything interesting. She got her wish.

She wondered why her father never spoke so to her. She realised that, actually, he had given her some variation of this speech many times in the months since Jane's marriage. It was only that she brushed him off as trying to control her and spoil her fun. She was the stupid naïve girl her father was thinking of while speaking.

She had heard it all before, but in this carriage she felt she truly heard her father for the first time. He told someone else, while believing she could not hear, that he worried about her and only wanted her to marry someone who loved her. That must make it true. Even Georgiana, who seemed so mature and refined, acknowledged that she did not know how to choose a suitor.

Lydia wondered if perhaps she should listen to her father more often.

Chapter Text

Bingley awoke feeling happy and refreshed. His tension had melted away almost immediately after his return to Netherfield, and he was certain it was the country air. Well, perhaps part of it was being away from his sisters for the first time in many months; he loved them, but they were not the easiest company.

Now, several days into his stay he had received calls from some neighbouring gentlemen, whom he recalled from the autumn, and was already feeling settled back in. He remembered that he and his party were to dine at Lucas Lodge that evening. He had wondered on his arrival if people would keep their distance after he had seemingly courted and abandoned one of their own, so he was pleased with his welcome.

This time Netherfield held a party of four gentlemen: he was joined by a couple of longtime friends, Mr Herrington and Mr Allen, as well as Caroline's erstwhile suitor, Mr White, with whom he had become quite friendly. He chuckled a little as it finally occurred to him that the neighbourhood's warm reception at his return was due to the number of single gentlemen now in their midst. He had no interest in searching for a wife until Caroline was settled, but his friends were welcome to the abundance of pretty girls he knew were in the area.

He rose and went about his day. The gentlemen had a leisurely breakfast, went for a ride, and spent time in individual pursuits, until it was time to prepare for their dinner engagement.

A few miles away, Lady Lucas was quite pleased with herself. For the second time, the handsome and wealthy Mr Bingley had entered their neighbourhood, and for the second time, hers was the first family to entertain him. Her elder daughter, Charlotte, was becoming quite advanced in age for a single young woman but perhaps this time he would notice her. Him or one of his friends—it mattered not. One of them may even become interested in Maria, as well. Mrs Bennet was not the only one with marriageable daughters.

The bell rang, indicating her guests had arrived, and she hurried into the parlour where the rest of her family was seated. The rest except for John and Mary, who were at Pemberley; that remembrance brought a smile to her lips. Perhaps she could even count on Mr Darcy to introduce gentlemen to Charlotte, since he would soon be brother to John and married to Charlotte's intimate friend. In this moment her daughter's prospects actually seemed quite good.

"Welcome, Mr Bingley!" she cried as he entered the room. "How good to see you again after all this time."

"It is a pleasure to be back," he said with his charming smile. "May I introduce my friends?"

Sir William had already met all the gentlemen but they were introduced to Lady Lucas, Charlotte, Maria, and the younger son, fifteen-year-old Alex.

"I understand Mr John Lucas has married the former Mary Bennet and they are at Pemberley with the rest of her family," Bingley said to the group at large. "Congratulations on your son's marriage."

"Why, thank you," Sir William replied. "We always hoped he would make a marriage in that family, did we not, my dear? And Mary has quite blossomed in the past months, indeed since her sister Jane's marriage last September; it is no wonder John took to her."

"Ah, yes, I had heard there was a fifth Bennet sister who married shortly before I moved here. My friend Darcy met her in Kent while he was courting Miss Elizabeth Bennet," Bingley smiled.

"Did he indeed? It is a small world, is it not?" said Lady Lucas. "Jane was a famous beauty in Hertfordshire, but of course we are quite pleased with John's choice."

Privately, Bingley wished he had been able to meet the woman he had heard described more than once as the most beautiful lady in the county, but wisely kept those thoughts to himself. Instead, he said, "All of the Bennet sisters I have met are lovely, and the Lucas ladies too, of course," with a nod towards Charlotte and Maria. 

As the party awaited the dinner bell they broke into separate conversations. Bingley and Allen spoke with the three ladies about the weather and their activities since they arrived in the country, while Herrington and White discussed the war with Sir William and Alex pretended to listen intelligently. Gradually, Charlotte paid more attention to the men's conversation and finally felt herself moved to speak.

"Mr White, do you truly believe France will invade Russia when they are already so occupied in the Peninsula? That is certainly a bold stance."

"I believe it is imminent," he replied energetically. "Napoleon has been considering it for some time. He refuses to see Poland reunited, which could occur under Russian influence." He and Charlotte debated this and his other reasons until the call came for dinner.

"We have informal seating tonight, so please sit wherever you like," Lady Lucas smiled. She had not missed the interactions between Mr White and Charlotte, and was very pleased when he chose to sit beside her at the table.

"Miss Lucas, as interested as I am in your opinions on the subject, war is perhaps not appropriate dinner conversation," he said as the first course came out. "What are your other interests?"

She blushed lightly. No man had ever asked her that before.

"Well, I am interested in drawing, but I do not believe I am particularly talented at it."

"Nonsense," he declared. "I would be honoured to see your work when dinner is over, if you will allow me."

The two had an agreeable discussion at dinner, but the Netherfield party did not linger very long after the meal ended. Charlotte was sorry to see him go.

"Well, my dear," Lady Lucas said happily to her daughter, "there is hope for you yet!"

This was hardly the worst comment she had ever heard from her mother, and she merely smiled in response. She would not get her hopes up, but she did like him.

"You seemed to like Miss Lucas," Bingley said to his friend on the carriage ride home.

"You could certainly find more handsome or endowered ladies, you know," Allen interjected.

"You two are as bad as women! I merely had a conversation with the girl," White replied. 

In fact, he had quite enjoyed himself. The last time he had prioritised beauty and dowry over character had resulted in a humiliating rejection from Caroline Bingley. Miss Lucas, with her informed opinions and her hobbies, had much more depth. He would be cautious, but he did like her.

Herrington wanted to continue their discussion about the war while they were having a nightcap back at Netherfield. When he made the same point Charlotte had made a few hours before, Mr White smiled.

Dear Darcy,

I apologise for not writing on the occasion of your engagement, but Mother has been engaged in an interminable tantrum since we heard the news and I thought it would be prudent not to. Our uncle barely managed to prevent her rushing to Hertfordshire to harass your now wife. Seeing a letter arrive from you would have renewed her ire. Besides, I wanted to be certain you were married before I took action and had my own news to share, and with your marriage I also feel I can speak freely to you for the first time.

I did not feel I could have refused if you had asked me to marry you, but I have never wished to marry at all. Truly, I am pleased you have made your own happiness, even if no one else in the family is. You deserve it. 

As I am legally the owner of Rosings, and do not feel our Fitzwilliam cousins are deserving, I have made the decision to make my heir a cousin on the de Bourgh side. He is a second son without an estate of his own, and he is already married, so I will not find myself in the same predicament again. I plan to have him and his family move in by the end of the year and take over management as soon as they are settled. You may be needed to answer some questions by post during the transition, but you can consider yourself absolved of all responsibility. I thank you for all you have done for us these four years.

My mother is displeased, as she wanted Rosings to stay in the Fitzwilliam side, but she would be displeased with any outcome. She has completely washed her hands of you. I hope the loss of her letters and invitations will not be too much punishment. It is your choice whether to correspond with me, but know that I bear you no ill will. Congratulations on your marriage, and give my regards to Mrs Darcy.

Your cousin,

Anne

Dear Darcy,

Congratulations on your marriage. As promised I will ensure the family shows unity and defends your choice to outsiders. You will need to make some public appearances this autumn and my wife will assist yours if required. Please call on us when you return to London.

Henry Fitzwilliam

Darcy,

I have heard your news and wish to congratulate you. I must apologise for how our last conversation went. I truly do like Mrs Darcy and was only concerned about the impact the match would have on the family. It seems my father has everything under control. I hope we can meet for a drink when you are next in town. Enjoy the honeymoon.

Richard

Dear Darcy,

You old son of a gun! It seems like yesterday you were about to travel to Hertfordshire to court the former Miss Bennet and now you are already married. You make this whole thing look easy. Do tell me your secrets over port someday. Or perhaps Mrs Darcy should give advice to Caroline.

You and your wife are always welcome at Netherfield when you visit her family, if Longbourn is a bit crowded for you. Currently I am enjoying my time here with Mr Allen, whom I believe you know, and other friends Mr Herrington and Mr White. White has become rather friendly with Miss Lucas after being in company a few times. It seems Netherfield has become some sort of matchmaking hub. I shall have gentlemen queueing to request their turn to stay here and meet the famous beauties of Hertfordshire. Should I charge a fee, do you think? I may have stumbled upon a business opportunity.

Please pass on my congratulations to Mrs Darcy and the entire Bennet family. I hope to see you this summer in Hertfordshire or autumn in London at the latest.

Bingley

"That is quite a collection of letters," Elizabeth said as soon as she finished reading. She and Darcy were on the settee together in their shared sitting room.

"What are your thoughts?" asked her husband.

"Oh, Mr Bingley most definitely should charge a fee to gentlemen using Netherfield to find wives. In fact, you owe him retroactively."

Darcy laughed. "Anything else?"

"Yes, I am quite cross with Charlotte for sending me a letter only yesterday without mentioning this Mr White! I believe I owe Mr Bingley for that information, as well. I shall demand to know everything when I respond to her."

"Do you recall there were three other letters besides Bingley's, my love?"

"But his was the most interesting!" She glanced through them again. "I am surprised my biggest supporter in your family is Miss de Bourgh. I do not believe she ever spoke two words directly to me in my five week trip."

Darcy sighed. "She has had an unhappy life under Lady Catherine's thumb. I am pleased she has made this decision to benefit Rosings and herself, though I am certain my uncle blames me as much as my aunt does for the perceived loss to the Fitzwilliams."

"He certainly does not hide his disapproval, though it seems the Colonel wants to make amends for whatever transpired between you. I am glad for that."

Darcy scowled. "I suppose I will reconcile with him, if you wish me to."

"It will hardly be the last time anyone questions your choice in marrying me. You will have no friends left at all if you hold a grudge against them all."

"I can forgive insults towards myself far easier than ones against you, Elizabeth."

She smiled gently and kissed him. "You must grow accustomed to it. In a year or two everyone will forget I was ever Miss Nobody from Nowhere. We will survive until then."

"You are correct as always." He pulled her into his lap and they sat comfortably for a few minutes.

"It is time to meet the others," Elizabeth said, glancing at the clock. "Poor Jane longs to go riding, as she has had no opportunity since before her marriage, but sitting with me to watch all of you must be enough while she is carrying a child."

"Very well, we shall go downstairs. I am enjoying having your family here more than I expected, but I do love stealing you away for a few moments when I can."

"It will not be the same hiding from only Georgiana instead of a crowd, will it?"

"No," he kissed the tip of her nose, "but that will not stop me."

Time passed in Derbyshire. First the Collinses departed, then a couple weeks later the Lucases and Bennets. Elizabeth wanted to remain cocooned with her husband at Pemberley for a while longer before visiting Hertfordshire for her other belongings and to give her farewells to her friends; so she and Darcy decided to visit Longbourn for a week or two on their way to the small season in London in September.

Elizabeth was quite certain that Derbyshire was her idea of heaven. Having missed the jaunt to the Peaks made by everyone else after their wedding, Darcy took her for a few days in July after a week-long visit from the Gardiners during their own tour. Georgiana insisted that she did not mind being left behind, as Mrs Annesley had returned and she would not dream of interfering in their new marriage.

Despite their sister's protestations the couple ensured they spent plenty of time with Georgiana. The two ladies became as close as sisters could be, to Darcy's great delight. When Darcy insisted they purchase what Elizabeth considered far too many clothes and accessories she greatly benefitted from the younger girl's assistance at shopping and reassurance that her wardrobe was just as large even without the ball gowns and other formal attire that Elizabeth required for London.

She worked with Mrs Reynolds to gradually take over management of the household and was pleased with having the work to occupy some of her time as well as the wonderful staff that made the transition easy. An even greater delight was all the hours she and her husband spent exploring the grounds. He showed her his favourite paths and they found places they particularly preferred to sit and read, take picnics, and generally bask in each other's company. He presented her with her own horse and taught her to ride that they may enjoy more of Pemberley's sizable property than they would have from walking. She found that riding was not so bad with such a companion.

No matter what they did each day, all Elizabeth cared about was being with her dear Fitzwilliam. She loved Georgiana, Pemberley, their staff and tenants, and the surrounding landscape; but all that paled in comparison with the man with whom she shared it all. He was her partner in activities and debates. He broadened her mind with his knowledge and experience, and was ever improving at teasing and making her laugh. He was her lover and her best friend. He was her favourite person in the entire world.

Time passed for Bingley as well. He recalled talking of giving up Netherfield shortly after his last return to London, when he was bitter about Miss Churchill, but now that he was here again he could not think of it. He once again began to consider purchasing it, but knew it was too important a decision to make in haste. He still had some time to decide what to do with the place at the end of his lease term. He considered asking for Darcy's opinion on the matter and immediately shook his head: it was his home, his life, and must be his own choice.

He was happier in the country than he had been over the winter in town. Netherfield, though only leased, felt like his own, and he surveyed the property with pride. The surrounding area was lovely, with some wonderful views and a charming town in Meryton. The society was perhaps not so refined as his acquaintance in London but was welcoming and very friendly. He watched with pleasure as Mr White and Miss Lucas increased their friendship.

Gatherings involving the Churchill family were rather awkward at first, but made easier by Olivia's engagement to a wealthy gentleman she had met during her season in town. Bingley was scrupulously polite to them all. He refused to fixate on any young lady in the neighbourhood as he was always wont to do before: not only was there no one who really tempted him, but he felt it would be bad form to behave that way in the same small neighbourhood twice. Actually, he reflected, it was bad form to do so at all until he was certain about marriage.

Throughout his summer in Hertfordshire there was nobody who could say he was anything other than what a young gentleman ought to be. He could see now that that had not always been the case.

Without any particular woman on whom to lavish his attention he found himself much more frequently conversing with the other landowners, and learned more about estate management to build on what he had already been taught by Darcy. As time passed he could contribute more to his meetings with his steward rather than passively listening to and automatically approving the other man's ideas. The sense of accomplishment this invoked in him helped solidify his notion that this was how he wanted to spend his life.

When the Bennets returned from Pemberley he felt a kind of kinship with them. He supposed it was due to his dear friend marrying into the family. He sought out Mr Bennet in particular for conversation and listened to Mrs Bennet boast about her three married daughters with an indulgent smile. When it seemed she was attempting to throw her youngest two girls at him he made sure to dance with and speak with them exactly as much as any other young lady present.

As the summer progressed he felt much satisfaction with his life. He had one sister well established and hoped to soon have the other married as well; he had a home he loved that was work he enjoyed; he had good friends and good neighbours whose company he appreciated. The only thing missing was a life partner with whom to share it all, but this, he knew, would come in its own time; when it was meant to be.

Chapter Text

"Lizzy, Mr Darcy, Miss Darcy," Mrs Bennet cried. "Welcome home! Well, I know it is not your home anymore, Lizzy, but you know what I mean."

She fluttered about, making inquiries about their journey, their last two months at Pemberley, and what they would like for dinner, all without pausing to hear answers. 

Mr Darcy, who after living with the woman for a month had grown quite accustomed to her, smiled gently and bent down to give her a kiss on the cheek. "Whatever you were already planning for dinner will suit us perfectly, Mrs Bennet."

The three Darcys then greeted Elizabeth's father and youngest sisters. Georgiana had been corresponding with the other girls and they hugged affectionately in their reunion.

"Mama, I feel I must remind you we will be staying at Netherfield," Elizabeth turned back to her mother to say. "We only came to see everyone briefly on our way there, though Mr Darcy and I will return to dine as arranged."

"Yes, of course—but you know, we have plenty of space here, especially with Jane and Mary married and moved out—oh, but Netherfield is so grand, of course you must prefer it, Mr Darcy—and Mr Bingley being your particular friend, too. It was very kind of him to invite you there, but you know you could have stayed here."

"I know, Mama, but Mr Bingley wanted me to be his hostess for the duration of our stay. I promise we will see you every day," she smiled.

"Such a handsome and charming man, Mr Bingley is," Mrs Bennet said. "I wonder how he has not yet married. And he does not seem to notice Lydia at all, or even Kitty—if he would prefer even her I would not say nay—"

"Mama, I am right here," Kitty interjected.

"—but nothing has come of his stay. Well, it is not too late; I may see him settled with one of my girls yet."

Elizabeth rushed to give Charlotte a tight hug the moment she set foot in Lucas Lodge.

"I have not seen you in three months!" Charlotte said. "I still can hardly believe you are married; and to Mr Darcy! I had a suspicion he liked you last year."

"You were correct," Elizabeth smiled. She glanced across the room at her husband, who was patiently listening to Sir William. "I know the wedding was sudden, but I am very happy. Exceedingly happy. But you must tell me more about Mr White! I am certain you have left information out of your letters."

Charlotte's blush told her more than any of her letters had. "He asked to court me formally a month ago, and to marry him only three days ago," she whispered.

"Charlotte!" Elizabeth barely contained herself from squealing as Lydia or Kitty would. "How exciting! I met him when we arrived at Netherfield yesterday, and he seems quite perfect for you. Serious and intelligent, like my own dashing gentleman."

"Of course I am old enough to consent on my own, but he insisted on speaking with my father, so the whole family knows, and now you."

"And you are happy?" 

"Yes! I am quite fond of him. I can scarcely believe it; I was uncertain I would ever marry at all at this point. I would have married him regardless, but I am so pleased to find myself engaged to a man I hold in such esteem."

"You deserve every happiness, my dear friend." Elizabeth squeezed her hands. "And I will get to see you together in two days." 

Bingley, now having a temporary hostess, was glad to finally have the opportunity to take his turn entertaining his neighbours who had been constantly inviting him and his friends to their events. Their first party would be dinner with the Bennet and Lucas families.

"I believe we are making the announcement then, if you do not object to using your dinner party for such a spectacle," Charlotte said.

"It would please me very much," Elizabeth replied. 

"And then the first banns will be called this Sunday. Mr White wants to return to his family estate, as he has been away for some time, and I certainly have no cause to delay. We decided to marry in three weeks as your two sisters did."

"We will be in London battling my new family and the Ton at large before then, but of course we shall make the trip here to witness your wedding, if you wish it."

"Eliza, that would make my happiness complete."

"My lord, my lady, it is a pleasure to meet you both," Elizabeth said to her new uncle and aunt with a deep curtsy.

The Earl and Countess of Matlock bowed and curtsied in return. "It is good to finally meet you too, Mrs Darcy," he said. Everyone sat down and the Countess rang for tea. "When did you arrive in town?"

"Only yesterday, my lord. We spent ten days visiting my family in Hertfordshire after leaving Pemberley."

"Where is Georgiana?" the Countess asked while looking around. 

"You know she does not travel well," Darcy answered for his wife. "She will call on you soon."

"I would have liked to have seen her, but you are correct, she does always require a day or two of rest. A delicate constitution, that girl has," the Earl said.

The Countess eyed Elizabeth up and down. "You certainly look more hardy than her. I hope that means you will bear my nephew a son easily."

"Aunt—" Darcy immediately began, but Elizabeth touched his arm to calm him.

"My mother bore five children without mishap," she said.

"All girls, if I recall correctly," the Earl interjected.

"That was the Lord's decision, not my mother's," she answered with a sweet smile.

They could not argue with that.

"It appears you have been shopping already," the Countess said while examining Elizabeth again. She was wearing one of her nicer new morning dresses and her favourites of the family jewels Darcy had presented to her shortly after their wedding. Her outfit embodied a finer and more elegant version of her usual understated beauty. "You look the part, at least. You are making a good start."

"She looks the part because she belongs in our society," Darcy said peevishly.

"We shall hold a ball to introduce you in a couple of weeks," his aunt continued, ignoring him. "I believe you have not been presented at Court?" she added with a frown.

"I will in the new year, my lady. I need my dress and tutoring."

"Hmph. I suppose that will do."

"Really, Aunt, is the hostility necessary?" Darcy asked. "We are already married. You cannot chase her off."

"Darcy, calm down," his uncle said. "If she cannot handle a little scrutiny here, when it is only us, she will not survive her first dinner party." He looked over at Elizabeth. "We are not offending you, are we?"

"Not at all, my lord," she smiled.

Indeed, they were not. Elizabeth silently thanked her mother for over twenty years of slights, both subtle and otherwise, that prepared her to gain amusement from the present interview and bear the upcoming months in town with good humour.

After a little more conversation the Darcys took their leave. As they walked the short distance home, Mr Darcy said to his wife, "I apologise for every uncharitable thought I have ever had about your family. None of them has ever treated me the way these two and Lady Catherine treat you."

"Do not worry about me, Fitzwilliam," she placated while squeezing his arm. "You know how whims and follies divert me. Whenever you are growing angry, I am mentally composing a letter to my father. You should try to see things my way for the sake of your health."

He looked at her for a few moments and shook his head. "You are a wonder," he said. "Every day I find another reason I could only have married you and no one else."

They arrived at home and went directly to their chambers where Elizabeth cheered her husband the best way she knew how.

"Caroline, how wonderful to see you again," Bingley said with a wide smile. "How did you enjoy your summer in Bath?"

"Very well, thank you," she replied and kissed her brother's cheek. "And your summer at Netherfield?"

"It was absolutely splendid," he declared. 

Bingley had just arrived in London and gone straight to the Hursts' townhouse, where he would again be residing. The Darcys had invited him to stay with them for the next couple months but he wanted to give the newlyweds their space.

"Are you ready for the little season?" he asked cheerfully.

"I suppose." Caroline bit her lip. "Do you truly intend to hand over my dowry if I am not engaged in the next few months?"

"I do. It is high time you had your own establishment, whether through marriage or independence. You know you cannot live with the Hursts or me forever."

"But I am too young to be consigned to spinsterhood like that," she pleaded. 

"Then you shall get married! Less eligible women than you get married every day. Have some faith. I am certain you will be fine."

She paced about the room in agitation. After a few minutes she turned to look at him.

"I will marry Mr White. He offered before; surely he will offer again if you speak to him? After all, he spent the entire summer with you."

"Oh, Caroline," Bingley said with true pity in his heart. "He only just married two days ago. It was the reason for my delayed return from Hertfordshire. He married Miss Charlotte Lucas. The announcement should be in the newspapers any day now."

Caroline froze. 

He gazed at her sympathetically.

Her breathing became more rapid. Her face flushed. 

"Miss Charlotte Lucas," she repeated slowly. "He went from me to Miss Charlotte Lucas."

"They are quite well suited, you know," Bingley offered.

"First Mr Darcy married Eliza Bennet, and then Mr White married Charlotte Lucas." 

Her voice shook. Her pitch raised. 

"Is there something in the water in Hertfordshire that makes men lose their senses? That makes inferior women appear marriageable? Am I the only person who sees how utterly incomprehensible it all is, that either of those women is in any way preferable to me?"

"Now, Caroline," her brother cut in, "you had your chance with White, and you never had any claim on Darcy."

"It is not fair," she nearly screamed. "How can those useless country girls be married before me? How?"

"You must calm yourself," he took her hands in an attempt to soothe. "Do not panic. You still have time. Perhaps even Mr Johnson will renew his offer."

"I will not marry a tradesman," she ground out. She pulled her hands away and began pacing again. "Besides, he surely has run off to Hertfordshire by now to marry one of the Miss Longs."

"I will go get Louisa," Bingley said. "I clearly cannot help you myself."

As he left her to her increasing hysteria, he wondered whether he should stay with the Darcys after all.

"So, Mrs Darcy, how have you enjoyed your first month in London?" Colonel Fitzwilliam asked as they danced together.

"It certainly has been very different from my time at Pemberley," Elizabeth smiled. "I enjoy the social engagements much more than my husband does."

She glanced across the room where, as expected, he was watching the two of them rather than conversing or dancing himself.

"I believe he had hoped to attend fewer parties after marrying, not more," he chuckled.

"It is only for this first year; people must have their curiosity assuaged, you know."

"And do they seem satisfied by what they see?"

"Oh, almost everyone I have met has been extraordinarily kind, at least to my face. I confess I find it rather disappointing after being led to believe my marriage would be the scandal of the century."

"It is only because you fit in so perfectly. Nobody would ever suspect from your elegance and manners that you did not grow up within the first circles."

"In other words, everyone had expected I would look the bumpkin, and since I do not they have decided to treat me as one of their own."

"Precisely," he laughed.

They went down the dance before Elizabeth could resume their conversation. "Even my naysayers have had their accusations refuted, now that I have been married for four months with no sign of that sort of scandal," she said gesturing subtly to her stomach.

"How disappointing for them."

"And are you satisfied with my introduction? I believe you were one of my earliest detractors," she teased lightly.

The Colonel had the good sense to look sheepish. "You have proven me wrong as much as everyone else, and I can admit it. But you must believe me that it was never personal. I did not know at the time whether you were a fortune hunter. And my cousin was correct when he accused me of overestimating the harm to the family, especially when my father took care to instruct everyone to accept you."

"He may have even begun taking his own advice; if I am not mistaken your parents seem to like me now. Certainly they accept me. If they are not careful they might accidentally find themselves approving."

"I daresay they already approve, after seeing how happy you have made their nephew and Georgiana. At least I do."

She smiled. "Both Darcys are the dearest people in the world to me; I cannot help loving them."

The dance finished, and they walked together towards her husband. The Colonel noticed how the couple gazed at each other while she approached.

"You really do love him," he said almost to himself. "He is a lucky man."

Caroline Bingley watched as Eliza Bennet—Mrs Darcy, she corrected herself bitterly—waltzed with her husband at that same ball. With the man who should have been her husband, if he had only opened his eyes to what was before him all those years. She had never even seen Mr Darcy dance the waltz before, so careful was he to avoid giving any lady the wrong impression of his interest, but he had taken to the floor with gusto this time.

She watched them move about the floor rather too close together, even for this dance, and smile into each other's eyes. People had been talking for a month about how charming Mrs Darcy was and how sweet it was to see them so in love, but Caroline disagreed on both counts. To her they looked foolish. Marrying for love was so plebeian. Still, it must be nice to be gazed at so adoringly by the most handsome man of her acquaintance…  

She looked away.

There was a gentleman at the refreshment table nearby to whom she had been introduced once before. If she recalled correctly, his family estate was fairly prosperous, though all the way in Scotland. She moved casually to the table as if to get some punch, taking care to angle herself towards him to show her elegant hairstyle to its best advantage.

"Miss Bingley," the man nodded civilly.

"Oh, Mr McIntyre, how good it is to see you," she feigned surprise at being addressed. "How do you do?"

"Very well, thank you, and yourself?"

"I am well, thank you. I have danced so much tonight I am simply gasping for a drink!" She batted her eyelashes.

Gallantly, he offered to pour her a cup and she planned her next conversational gambit while he busied himself with the task. But before she could speak again he nodded and moved away, leaving her gaping at his back.

She sighed and took a sip. The dance finished while she stood in solitude.

Dear Lizzy,

This letter is difficult to write, but I feel it is necessary. I have been avoiding talking about it in the hopes that matters would improve, but it is now well into October: five months have passed with no sign of change.

When I saw you at Pemberley I disclosed that Lady Catherine is displeased with my husband and me due to your engagement (now marriage) to Mr Darcy. I was optimistic then that she would grow accustomed to the changes and things would return to normal, but it appears I was wrong.

She never invites us for social visits, so I only see her at church, where she pointedly snubs me. Miss de Bourgh attempts to be civil sometimes but is pulled away by her mother before she can converse with me beyond "how do you do". Lady Catherine also appears displeased by the cousin who recently moved into Rosings as well; his family must sit in her pew with her but they all appear uncomfortable.

She will request my husband to attend her at Rosings to show her his sermon he prepared for the upcoming Sunday, then make him change it entirely. Sometimes this occurs twice in one week. She undermines him in front of parishioners, offering contradicting advice in spiritual matters unasked. 

She has convinced Mr Collins to not "waste" money by hiring a nursemaid for the child we are expecting next month. I believe he has acquiesced hoping that his adherence to her advice in this and other matters would bring him back in favour, but it has not and now I fear how I will manage without assistance. Thankfully, Mama is coming in a fortnight in case the baby arrives a week or two early, and will stay for at least a month after it is born. Papa must remain at home to watch over our sisters, but I wish he could have come as well.

The strain is impacting my husband's health. He is not sleeping well. Even before the weather turned colder, he was still unable to tend to his garden as he used to without quickly becoming exhausted. He hardly has an appetite and is growing alarmingly thin. Due to his weakness he is constantly taking ill with colds. 

I pray nightly for the restoration of his health and our reconciliation with Lady Catherine, but Lizzy, I must confess I am also praying that our child will be a son, in case he does not recover. Please pray for us, as I know there is nothing else you can do, nor would I ask more from you.

I hesitated to tell you all of this while I know you are very busy in London but I could not manage any longer without unburdening myself. I feel somewhat relieved just having my dearest sister know. I hope I have not distressed you. Please continue to write to me of the balls and parties you are attending, for your letters always lift my spirits.

As usual, give my regards to Mr and Miss Darcy.

Always your loving sister,

Jane

Elizabeth entered her husband's study in tears. The moment he saw her he put away his work and rushed over to her.

"Sweetheart, what is the matter?" he asked and steered her to a nearby couch where he pulled her into his lap.

She said nothing, but handed him Jane's letter, which he read with an increasingly grim expression.

"We can help them, at least a little," he said after he finished a second perusal. "First, I will inform my uncle that Lady Catherine is abusing your sister and brother, and hope he can induce her to stop. Second, I will begin looking for another living for him; I have none expected to become available soon but I will ask others if they know of a possibility. Third, we will pay for their nursemaid. Mr Collins cannot object if it costs him nothing."

Elizabeth nodded. She briefly considered objecting to imposing on the Earl, whose friendship with her was still tentative, but she decided she would do anything to help Jane.

Darcy watched with concern as his precious wife cried in his arms. "Is there anything I can do for you, my love? A glass of wine, perhaps?"

She shook her head. "I knew—I knew all was not well in June, but Jane said no more on the subject since then, so I did not think it was continuing. I should have known Lady Catherine would hold onto her resentment."

"No, no. Of course you could not have known. I know my aunt best; truly I am the one who should have taken action sooner to look for a new living for them. I thought when we first became engaged that it might be necessary. I am so very sorry for not following through until now, Elizabeth."

She again shook her head. "I do not blame you. Thank you for whatever you can do now."

He continued thinking as she dried her tears. He asked her, "Shall we invite the Collinses to Pemberley for her confinement? Or if Mr Collins cannot get away, perhaps just your sister and mother will come? I do not object to leaving London early for them."

"I am certain Mr Collins will not be allowed and that Jane will refuse to go without him, but I will ask." She snuggled even closer and kissed his hand. "You are so generous. I will never have the means to do even a fraction as much for you as you do for my family."

"Elizabeth, you are my life and your family is my family. I will always care for them as I am able."

She sighed and closed her eyes. She was still distressed for Jane, but her husband's comfort was impossible to resist.

"Would it be very bad if we missed the party tonight?" she asked. "All I want is your company, and Georgiana's."

"We will stay home. It is not an important event, and neither of us feels equal to attending." He kissed her temple. "Tomorrow I will call on my uncle and explain the situation, and then go to my club to begin making inquiries for an available living, if you do not mind me being out for a few hours."

"Of course I do not mind, especially when those are your errands. I shall practise the pianoforte, for once, and write to Mary."

They sat there for a long time. Elizabeth was wracked with guilt. She knew Jane had made sacrifices for her and their other sisters, but this was more than anyone had expected. Marrying a silly man should not cause her to suffer. 

She wondered what Jane would do if the worst happened. She wanted more than anything for her dearest sister to know the happiness she herself felt one day, but at the moment Jane's happiness seemed all too far away.

"Your uncle actually went to Kent? All I expected from him was a sternly worded letter!" Elizabeth exclaimed. 

The Darcys had just dismissed his valet and her lady's maid for the night and it was their first opportunity to speak privately all day. They climbed into bed and nestled under the covers as they talked.

"Yes, dearest, he went to Kent himself the day after I spoke with him. Perhaps his motivation was less concern for your brother and more to prevent word reaching London about Lady Catherine's displeasure with our marriage, but the outcome is the same regardless. He installed her in the dower house where she belongs, since Anne is the legal owner and Mr de Bourgh is the de facto manager, and told her in no uncertain terms that he had better not hear another word about her harassing Hunsford's parson."

"I am so glad," Elizabeth breathed. "I have been constantly worrying. Now I suppose I must hope she does not intimidate them out of reporting mistreatment to us."

Darcy considered the possibility. "You will continue to ask your sister for news, and I will write to Anne and request she keep me informed of her mother's activities. We can also visit them whenever you like; it is barely a three-hour drive."

"I would like to visit before the child comes, to ensure she is prepared," she nodded.

"I had no luck in my initial inquiries about a new position for Mr Collins, but I asked the word to be spread that I know an experienced rector in need of a living."

"Jane should receive my letter today; I told her we are hiring her nursemaid and offered Pemberley for her confinement with or without her husband. I hope she responds immediately."

"Would you like to take control of the hiring? I believe you are ready after managing the staff at Pemberley and here these four months."

"Oh! I always have assistance from the housekeepers." She bit her lip. "I suppose I ought to do it, though."

"It will be good practice for when it is our turn to need someone for that role," he smiled and stroked her cheek.

"Now that is a happier subject of conversation," she said dreamily. 

Darcy ran his hand from her face down to lightly cover her stomach. "Part of me hopes it will be soon, and part of me is not ready to share you yet."

She laughed lightly. "It will happen at exactly the right time, whenever that may be."

"And in the meantime," he leaned forward to whisper in her ear, "I believe it is incumbent on us to practise, most diligently."

Jane's letter arrived a couple of days later. She refused the offer to stay at Pemberley on the grounds that Mr Collins could not get away, as Elizabeth expected, but gratefully accepted the offer of a nursemaid, somewhat to Elizabeth's surprise, which indicated the extent of Jane's nervousness. 

"Mama will be in Hunsford in a week," Elizabeth told Darcy; "do you mind if we travel there shortly after to check on things?"

"As you wish," he kissed her forehead. "Whenever we have a day free of commitments I am happy to take you."

The day came and the couple set out early in the morning. Elizabeth rejoiced in her sister's luminescence and appearance of good health, even as she felt alarmed by the opposite impression of her brother.

She was more concerned by what they were told about Lady Catherine. Her interference into church matters such as his sermons had waned since the Earl's talk with her, but only the day before she had suddenly become exceedingly concerned with the preparation of the nursery and came to their house uninvited to inspect it.

"Forgive me for saying so about your aunt, Mr Darcy, but she was incredibly rude!" Mrs Bennet explained. "Why should it matter whether the child sleeps on this side of the room or that? But she insisted on rearranging all the furniture."

"She knows she should not interfere in our family's matters," he said, frowning. "I fear she will continue to involve herself in other aspects of the birth whenever my uncle and I are not looking, and cause anxiety to Mrs Collins that could be harmful."

He turned to face the Collinses. "Are you quite certain you will not come to Pemberley for a couple of months? You can be assured of peace, control, and space. We can even have the rest of the family come in December to meet the child and celebrate Christmas together."

Everyone looked at Mr Collins, who would be the one to make the final decision.

"I, er, I do not know," he stammered. "I understand the benefits, but I cannot just hie off to Derbyshire whenever you ask. Lady Catherine will—"

"Lady Catherine is not your true patroness," Darcy reminded him. "She has been acting the part but the decision to grant you leave belongs to Mr de Bourgh now, to whom Anne has given control of Rosings. If I speak with him and make arrangements, will you come? For your wife's sake, and your child's."

"Now?" Mr Collins asked. "It is so sudden…"

"We have no time to lose," Elizabeth said gently. She discreetly eyed Jane's considerable midsection. "It is a long journey, as you know, which will grow more difficult for Jane with every day we delay."

"I will go speak with the man now," Darcy said. "If he is willing to give you a few months' leave while I arrange a substitute parson, then you can decide whether to accept."

He was out the door before anyone could respond.

So it was that the group headed to London later that day. The Darcys sent out notes making their excuses to miss upcoming engagements, and they were on the road to Pemberley the following morning. The parish at Kympton had both a rector and a curate so he sent the curate to take over Hunsford in Mr Collins's absence. Mrs Reynolds delighted in preparing the nursery for the first child to be born at Pemberley since Georgiana nearly seventeen years ago.

Jane delivered a son a fortnight later, on the fifteenth of November. The proud parents named him William Thomas Collins and the Darcys joyously agreed to be godparents to the next heir of Longbourn.

Chapter Text

"Where did the time go?" Elizabeth asked Darcy. "How is it already January?"

They were on the road, along with Georgiana and Mrs Annesley, returning to London. They had stayed at Pemberley from the time they brought the Collinses and Mrs Bennet through the festive season when Georgiana and the remaining Bennets had joined them to celebrate. Everyone spent the trip fawning over little William whom they all declared was the sweetest, handsomest little boy they had ever seen.

After the Bennets returned home to Hertfordshire, Darcy and Elizabeth persuaded the Collinses to remain at Pemberley for a while longer to enjoy their son in peace. Jane was still recovering and Mr Collins, though everyone had expected his health to improve during his extended absence from Kent, continued to deteriorate. The apothecary who examined him could offer no explanation except that his stress likely exacerbated some existing unidentifiable illness. He was unfit to work and the curate who was temporarily overseeing his parish was happy to remain where he was, having no family to motivate him to return to Derbyshire for a lower position. 

Elizabeth's presentation at Court was scheduled for a fortnight hence, and so the Darcys were obliged to return, leaving the Collinses to the comforts of Pemberley. Elizabeth had at least one more fitting for the gown being made specifically for the event, and additionally was planning a ball with the help of Lady Matlock to be held at the Darcy townhouse to celebrate afterwards. 

"I do not anticipate spending the entire season in London," Darcy said. "I rarely do. We can return in early spring, if you prefer, or go to Hertfordshire then, or anywhere in the country you like."

"We will not decide today," she smiled. "Let us wait to see how we are enjoying ourselves, and how easy the roads look for the journey back. I suspect I will be eager to return to Jane and our nephew."

"I miss them already," Georgiana spoke up.

Elizabeth chuckled. They had only departed an hour ago. "So do I."

The dressmaker commissioned with Elizabeth's presentation gown was not pleased.

"You ate too much over Christmas," Madame Bouvier complained. "Now I must rush to take it out."

"I do not understand," Elizabeth said, puzzled. "I feel as though I have been eating less lately, not more. I have had some nausea off and on making many foods unappealing to me."

Lady Matlock and Mme Bouvier looked at each other knowingly.

"Nausea and food aversion?" her aunt asked. "How long have you experienced this?"

Elizabeth thought for a moment. "About a month," she said. "I believed it to simply be the amount of sweets and delicacies present for the Christmas season. The carriage ride here from Pemberley was rather nauseating as well, but I do not usually face backwards. I have been better the last couple of days."

"Hmm," Lady Matlock considered this. "I suppose those are possible explanations. Can you tell me, when was the last time you had your monthly courses?"

Elizabeth blushed furiously and looked around. "Aunt," she hissed, "how can you ask me that in a shop where anyone might overhear?"

"No one is here," she replied. "Please tell me."

Still blushing, Elizabeth reflected for a moment. "October, I think. I suppose that is rather unusual. Do you suspect it is related to my nausea?"

"I do," Lady Matlock said with a gleam in her eye. "Did your mother never tell you the signs when one is expecting a child?"

"A child! Truly? No, she never did—we were too focused on the news of my sister expecting when I got married, I suppose. Do you really think it could be that?" Elizabeth paced around in excitement. "What should I do?"

"Calm yourself," Lady Matlock laughed. "Luckily your presentation is in only ten days. Mme Bouvier will let out your dress, and we will take you to a midwife to be examined when we leave here."

"A child! Truly?" Darcy asked in bewilderment.

Elizabeth laughed heartily. "That is exactly what I said. I will not feel the quickening for another month or more, but the midwife seemed quite certain we will have a new Darcy in July."

"What wonderful news, Elizabeth!" He pulled her into a tight embrace, and abruptly released her when he began to fear injuring the baby. Having been instructed that she may continue all her usual activities as long as she feels comfortable, Elizabeth reassured her husband that a hug will do no harm. He did not need to be told twice.

They spent the next hour in joyful conversation, sharing their dreams for their child and their future.

That night at dinner they shared their news with Georgiana, who expressed her delight in a most unladylike manner. They forgave her for the lapse.

They resisted sharing with everyone they knew, deciding it would be prudent to wait for the quickening to be more certain, but did inform their immediate family members who all quickly wrote back to express their own joy. Even Mr Bennet was moved to write a rare letter to his daughter.

Elizabeth's presentation and ball went very smoothly. Though they did not tell anyone else their news—excepting only their dear friends Charles Bingley and Charlotte White, who both attended their ball—she could not contain her happiness. Everyone remarked on how absolutely radiant Mrs Darcy looked, and if anyone suspected the reason for her special glow, they at least had the sense to not ask her directly.

A few days later husband and wife were in the nursery of their townhouse having a good-natured argument about its organisation in their eagerness to begin preparing for the arrival. Elizabeth had just suggested they bring in Lady Catherine for expert advice when a light knock sounded at the door to the room.

It was their butler.

"An express has arrived for you, ma'am," he said, and handed it to Elizabeth before slipping out.

The envelope was trimmed with black. 

Darcy and Elizabeth stared at it in her hand, then looked at each other. Had the day come that they had feared for the last three months?

They went to the privacy of their suite's sitting room and opened the letter together. It was from Jane.

"You made the correct choice, Caroline," Louisa Hurst told her sister.

Caroline sniffled. She had been holding back tears all morning.

"I do not understand how it came to this," she replied.

"You are being ridiculous. Charles and I have told you repeatedly not to aim so high. You could certainly have done worse than Mr Johnson."

"I should have done better."

Louisa shook her head in frustration. Caroline would never understand. Women born to wealthy tradesmen had more opportunities than poorer ones, but they were still limited. Most landed gentlemen willing to marry one of them would do so because they required her dowry to assist with their estate's finances. Great men like Mr Darcy were entirely out of reach despite Caroline's high opinion of herself.

She responded, "You will have more money than me, and perhaps he will be able to sell his business and purchase an estate in a few years. Truly, you have no cause for complaint."

Caroline sighed. Louisa would never understand. They had attended the same school, yet Louisa had not been taunted the same way for being the daughter of a tradesman, because she was quieter and more humble. The other girls laughed at Caroline for "putting on airs"; she was only trying to fit in and imitate her peers. Nothing could please them and her years at school were unhappy ones. She promised herself she would show all of them her worth one day by marrying a fabulously wealthy man from a noble and respected family, but today, her wedding day, her dream was ashes.

Bingley bustled into the room in his usual effervescent manner.

"How are we doing this morning?" he asked them both. "Caroline, you look lovely. I am very pleased to see you well settled. You will be happy, I am sure of it."

She forced a smile. She was uncertain if he believed his own words or if he was only happy to be rid of her like Louisa was.

"We must leave for the church in five minutes; are you both ready?" he continued.

Caroline had always dreamed of a large society wedding with hundreds in attendance including peers of the realm and even journalists. It was to be the event of the year. Instead, her actual wedding would have only a few relations and a quiet breakfast afterwards. Even the Darcys would not be there, having rushed off to Pemberley once again. Idly, she wondered what could possibly keep calling them there. Some made-up excuse, no doubt.

She shook her bitter thoughts of Mr Darcy out of her head. For all her shame at the turn her life had taken, she was determined to be a good wife and show her husband what a prize he had won in her. Regretting some other man would not do.

She smoothed her skirts and lifted her chin.

"I am ready," she said.

Jane Collins sat in the nursery at Pemberley and played with her nearly three-month-old son William. The past fortnight had been so chaotic that this was her first opportunity to truly think about it all; everything that had happened in the last year and a half to lead her to this moment. 

She was a mother and a widow at the age of twenty-three. William Collins had walked into her life one August morning, whisked her away to Kent, unwittingly been the means of uniting her sister with her husband through their coincidental visit, and then died from the consequences. She almost felt as though she had lived this whole time in service of her sister's happiness; and now that Elizabeth's happiness was assured, perhaps it could someday be her turn.

She had not loved her husband. They had lived comfortably together, and she had enjoyed her role as parson's wife in the community. They were fond of each other in their own ways. However, she had known all the while that this life, while satisfactory, was not the life she had always dreamed of living.

She was grateful that her husband had saved Longbourn from leaving the Bennet family. She was grateful that despite his deference to Lady Catherine de Bourgh he still did his best to make her happy. She was grateful that he had lived to see his son born, that despite the unhappiness of the last months of his life he could know his family would be safe and secure when he departed. She did not know what, exactly, had taken him, and perhaps she would never know, but she was grateful that his suffering was at an end.

Pemberley was now her home. Mrs Bennet had wanted her to return to Longbourn—her son was the heir, after all—but as much as she loved her mother, what she needed right now was the tranquility she found here and the close companionship of Elizabeth and Georgiana. She could not bear to spend her mourning period being gawked at by the Meryton society. She trusted her sister and brother when they promised she would be welcome for as long as she wanted to stay.

They remained in Derbyshire with her, missing the rest of their season in London due to mourning their brother-in-law, but she did not believe they minded. Jane appreciated her brother Darcy—she was still struggling to grow accustomed to calling him Fitzwilliam as he requested when she moved in—more and more as time passed. It was he who did everything in his considerable power to please his wife and her family, ever since the day they reunited at Hunsford. It was he who took charge when Lady Catherine was directing her ire towards the Collinses, and took them north to ensure the safe arrival of her child. It was he who arranged everything for the funeral and burial of her husband, even travelling to Kent to see that Mr Collins was laid to rest beside his parents and gathering their remaining belongings from the Hunsford parsonage. And he did it all simply because he was a good and generous man.

Jane wondered if such a man existed who would be right for her, as Darcy was perfect for Lizzy, then banished those thoughts in shame. Her husband had only been buried days ago; men should be the last thing on her mind for a long time.

She gazed at her son on the floor. His toy was slightly out of reach, but he persisted: wiggling, grunting, stretching, at last he grasped the treasured object and smiled his pleasure in an expression that was startlingly like his father.

Whatever William Collins was—well-intentioned, loquacious, self-important, earnest, silly—he had been her husband and she would never be the same for having been his wife. Now, all that remained of him was their son: her reminder of the past and her hope for the future. She would cherish this child as no other could.

She bowed her head and allowed the tears to fall.

A little while later Elizabeth walked towards the nursery in search of her sister. It was time to dress for dinner.

She opened the door and was greeted by the sight of Jane in the rocking chair, holding little William to her shoulder, both of them fast asleep. They looked far too peaceful to disturb.

"Forgive me, ma'am, for not putting him down to nap in his bassinet; Mrs Collins wished to keep him herself this time," whispered William's nurse, who had materialised seemingly from nowhere.

Elizabeth smiled and nodded to dismiss her. 

She watched the pair for a few minutes. She recalled learning from her aunt Gardiner that these early months of a child's life were so precious and so fleeting. She was certain she would be the same as Jane when it was her own.

She touched her stomach, which was beginning to show a slight bulge. She imagined having a little boy, a playmate for her nephew; or perhaps it would be a girl who she could teasingly claim was destined to marry her cousin. She had a feeling her husband would not find that as humourous as she. 

Jane and William did not stir. With one last glance she tiptoed out and gently closed the door.

It was February and Bingley was thinking about Netherfield. 

Last September he had opted to renew his lease for one more year. He was fairly certain he wanted to purchase the place, but still he decided to wait.

He believed he knew the reason for his hesitation: he wanted to get married. It seemed to him that already having his own property could make him more marketable, but on the other hand, he wanted to choose where to live with his wife. He wanted to devote himself to one special woman's happiness, and perhaps that woman would be pleased with Netherfield, but perhaps she would prefer to live near her family elsewhere. Perhaps she would even have her own estate. As much as he loved Netherfield, he knew he would love his future family more.

Charles Bingley was a generous man by nature. Gregarious and carefree, he derived much pleasure from the happiness of others. He had not liked forcing his sister to marry under threat of withdrawing his support, but he knew from many years of experience with her that if he gave in to her attempts at negotiation, if he ceded any ground as he was quite tempted to do, that nothing in either of their lives would ever change. And indeed, the effort had been rewarded. Caroline was married to a man who would be kind to her and who despite working in a trade would give her the lifestyle she wanted. He truly believed she would learn to be content with him, despite her theatrics leading up to the wedding.

Though the relief he felt from no longer being responsible for her was so palpable he felt a little guilty. 

Now he was free to once again think about himself, and this time it would be different. Previously he had lived his life in pursuit of fleeting amusements. Dancing, flirting, and sport filled his days. He had no responsibility to speak of. But nearly one and a half years as master of Netherfield, and his illuminating experience with Olivia Churchill, had taught him what was important to him. He longed for a home of his own and a family to fill it. He wanted to find the woman who was the most suited to him, not who was merely the most beautiful in the room. 

This season in town was going much the same as the last, and he felt frustrated as he wondered how he was ever to meet this future wife of his. He did not care for any of the women he knew in London, and there were only so many new ladies debuting each year.

So, he was thinking of Netherfield, and how eager he was to abscond there after spending a few more months here searching for a woman who may not exist. He had thought to return to his country home early, perhaps as early as the start of May.

He reread the letter in his hands which he had received that morning. It was an invitation from Darcy to visit them at Pemberley for a while in May or June when the London season was winding down and before their child arrived.

He hesitated, but not for long. He missed Netherfield, but he also missed his friend. He made his decision: in three months he would go to Pemberley.

Chapter Text

Bingley rode his black stallion the last leg of the long distance to Pemberley at mid-morning on the fifth of May. There was only so much time he could spend sitting idly in a carriage, and the previous two days were quite enough.

The remainder of his time in London had gone as he expected, and he was happy to get away. There were many pretty women who caught his eye but could not retain his interest for more than half-an-hour. Many simply wanted information about the Darcys, their courtship, marriage, and expected child. Some had the nerve to speculate that they had actually returned to Pemberley because the child was to be born less than nine months from the time of their wedding, rather than from a death in the family, and the Matlocks were aggressively working to quell those ridiculous rumours. Everyone had seen Elizabeth in January with a flat stomach but that fact was conveniently forgotten by some. As welcoming as the society had been in Mrs Darcy's presence, it was still a society that thrived on gossip and scandal, and Bingley felt disgusted by this new evidence of that truth.

Having visited his friend's home several times before, he was quite comfortable seeing himself directly to the stables instead of expecting anyone to meet him at the front. He nudged his horse to the side path that would lead in that direction a half-mile from the manor.

As he rounded a corner he was confronted with the most enchanting sight. 

A woman was galloping on her horse across a nearby field. Her long blonde hair was tied in a knot, but strands were coming loose in the wind and trailing behind her. She was riding astride—an unusual sight, but given the privacy of this part of the property she had no reason to suspect she would be seen. Her figure and posture were perfect. He could not see her face, but her energy and joy were radiating from her with every fluid movement. She and her horse moved in perfect harmony and communication: this was by no means an unusual activity for her. She may have been the finest horsewoman he had ever seen.

He did not know when he had stopped his horse, but he sat, transfixed, and watched as she galloped one more lap around the perimeter of the field and gradually slowed as she approached in his direction. For a moment he thought she was coming to him, as if she had felt his heart reaching out to her and was answering its call. Then he remembered he was next to the stable where she doubtless was returning after completing her exercise.

With this realisation, the moment was over—how many minutes had he been there, anyway?—and he shook himself out of his stupor. Who was she? Would she be embarrassed at finding she was being watched? Should he act as though he had only just arrived?

It was too late to decide what to do: she was there, quite close before she even noticed him. She started in surprise and looked around, noticing he was alone.

Jane was partaking of what had become her daily exercise. She had always been fond of riding when she was at Longbourn, but did not have as much opportunity as she wished due to sharing one old mare with all her family, and then no chance at all while ensconced at Hunsford. Now that she lived at Pemberley she was given her own horse, a beautiful white gelding named Spirit for the lively way it moved, and she made good use of the privilege. Her morning rides were her opportunity to be alone, to clear her head and exercise her body. She reveled in the short time she could forget her cares and simply feel connected to nature. When she was riding she felt free.

Feeling Spirit slow slightly in weariness she knew it was time to return to the house. She finished the lap, slowing further to cool down, and made for the stable. She wondered what William was doing, whether eating or sleeping or playing. She felt hungry and wondered what time it was, how long she had been out here. It seemed as though it had been a particularly long ride.

Suddenly, she saw him. Atop his own large horse was a man she had never met before, but one of the most handsome men she had ever seen. As fine as her brother Darcy, but as different in features from him as she was from Elizabeth, this man was much more suited to her taste with his wind-blown red-blond hair, blue eyes, and open countenance.

All at once she remembered herself and flushed in embarrassment. She was astride her horse in a most unladylike manner, her face was red and sweaty from exertion, and her hair was in disarray. She did not know him, yet he was alone on Pemberley's property and now she was alone with him.

Her own words to her sister the previous April, after her first time meeting Mr Darcy, came back to her: What I would not give for someone to look at me the way he looked at you when he entered this room. It seemed as though this handsome stranger was doing exactly that despite her wild appearance. It was a look of amazement and admiration and happiness all in one. It was exhilarating.

He found his wits and jumped off his horse to bow. "I am Charles Bingley. I apologise for surprising you; I know I am a little earlier than expected."

"Oh," she replied. Of course it was Mr Bingley. She had been so distracted by his sudden appearance she had not recalled the date.

He moved towards her. "May I assist you from your horse?" he asked, while reaching his hand to hers.

She did not know what to say. She felt stupid. She took his hand and allowed him to help her down.

He smiled gently down at her. "I assume you are Mrs Collins?"

"Yes, forgive me—I am Mrs Collins." She gave an awkward curtsy, blushing anew. "Please excuse my appearance," she added as she brushed her tangled hair from her face self-consciously.

"It is nothing; I am certain I look the same after riding for three hours," he smiled. He thought she was the most beautiful woman alive exactly as she was. "May I escort you to the house?"

"Yes, I thank you," she said as she smiled back. He took both horses by the reins and walked them the short distance to the stables. After speaking a few words of instruction to the boy who took the animals he returned to where Jane stood. They began to walk side by side.

"I have heard of you from the Darcys and your mother," he said. "I offer you my condolences on the tragic passing of your husband."

"Thank you," she said solemnly. "I am grateful I have my healthy son still with me."

"Will you tell me about him? I believe he was born last autumn?" Bingley was pleased with himself for remembering so much to enable conversation.

They talked their entire walk. She told him about William, and he told her about his sisters, one of whom had lately married and the other finally expecting a child after three years of marriage.

"My sister Mary is expecting her first as well, and of course you know Lizzy is in her seventh month," she said.

They reached the house with some reluctance on both sides. Upon entry Jane inquired of the butler as to the location of the three Darcys, who it turned out were all gathered in the morning parlour. As they continued in that direction Bingley admired the gentle way she spoke with the servants, the dignity with which she carried her mourning, and her composure when he was certain she must have still felt uncomfortable.

For her part, Jane was pleased with the speed at which he had put her at ease. Her earlier embarrassment must have been obvious but he did not draw it out, instead distracting her by talking. Having a quieter disposition herself she liked people who had the skill of leading conversations and she quite accidentally revealed more personal details about herself than she ordinarily would with a new acquaintance.

They reached the rest of the family. Darcy raised an eyebrow at their entering together while Elizabeth immediately greeted their guest and rang for refreshments.

"Forgive my early intrusion; my carriage should arrive within the hour with my trunks and valet, so you must tolerate my disheveled appearance for now," Bingley said cheerfully. 

"Not to worry," Darcy said and clapped his friend's back. "I see introductions to my sister are not necessary." 

Now that she had seen Bingley to his hosts Jane excused herself to clean up. When she returned a half-hour later she heard Darcy laugh heartily at some remark the other man had made. She had never seen anyone other than Elizabeth make him laugh like that, confirming her impression of Mr Bingley as a man who easily increased people's comfort and cheer.

She looked forward to getting to know him during his stay.

That night, Darcy and Elizabeth climbed into bed and he lightly wrapped his arm around her rapidly growing middle.

"What were you and Mr Bingley discussing for so long after dinner?" she asked.

"Oh, you know. Man things," he replied. "And what of the ladies?"

"Woman things," she retorted with a chuckle. "I suppose I can forgive you for tarrying with him. You have had only female company for some months now."

"I do not mind the company of my three favourite women," he said with a small kiss. "I confess Jane was a bit mysterious to me when I first knew her, because she does not show her thoughts and feelings openly like you. But now I am learning to read her. I believe she may rather like Bingley."

"I think so too," Elizabeth whispered excitedly. "Fitzwilliam, I know she will be in mourning for many more months, but I wonder if we have accidentally brought something about here!"

"We will see." Darcy frowned. "I have seen him in love many times. I will not have her be hurt. You recall how he was when we were all in Hertfordshire together."

"I also recall there has been no young lady since then," Elizabeth replied; "and did you see them talking together tonight after you finally joined us? When was the last time Jane spoke so much? With Olivia he did all the talking, and with Jane he does all the listening."

He paused for a moment's consideration. "You are correct. Perhaps he has matured in his dealings with women. I now remember him telling me last year he was focusing on learning a woman's character; he could be holding firm in his resolution."

"And if you are concerned about his constancy, he came at the perfect time. Nothing can happen before next year."

"That is true. Well, we should not be hasty either way. They have known each other only one day."

"Oh dear, are we turning into my mother? Was it an inevitability now that we are to be parents?" 

Darcy laughed. "Heaven forbid."

He stroked her stomach gently. He could feel where the baby was protruding - a foot, he thought it might be. "How do you feel, dearest? Only two more months."

"It is becoming rather uncomfortable at times, but I am quite well right now," she said.

"Have I thanked you for carrying this child for us?" He kissed her forehead, temple, and cheek.

"Not since yesterday. I am beginning to feel quite taken for granted."

He returned the smirk she was giving him. "Please allow me to make it up to you, my love." 

He snuffed the candle and pulled her close, kissing her deeply.

Bingley caught Jane heading to a side door of Pemberley in her riding habit the next morning.

"Mrs Collins," he called. "Are you going for a ride? May I join you?"

She smiled serenely. "You may."

When they stepped outside and began the walk to the stables he drew her into conversation. "How long have you lived here at Pemberley now?" he asked.

"We came at the end of October. Originally we were supposed to stay only for two months or so after William's birth, but—well, it became permanent for me."

He nodded in understanding. "And are you happy here?"

"Oh, yes," she said earnestly. "This place is a paradise. I never dreamed I would ever live in such a home. Indeed, I do not feel I deserve such luxury, but the generosity of my sister and brother has allowed it and I am endlessly grateful."

"Mrs Collins, from everything I have heard of you I believe you are most deserving, and clearly the Darcys know it as well."

Blushing, she answered, "Well, I might not have accepted their invitation to move in if I did not believe it would be best for my son. I must return to Longbourn eventually, but I am in no hurry."

"When have you last seen Longbourn?" he asked curiously. "I do not believe I have heard of you visiting since your marriage."

"That is correct; I have not. I know I ought to—it is my more rightful home, and my son is the heir—but I have seen my family here twice, and they will come again this summer when my nephew or niece is born. That is enough for me, right now."

They walked a few moments in silence. He could tell she was gathering her thoughts, so he waited. 

She did not know what compelled her to further explain her feelings, but she wanted him to understand. "I do not fear Longbourn itself; it is the neighbourhood. I believe—perhaps I am wrong and being uncharitable, but I know the families there, and I do not want to be the subject of gossip. I likely already am, but I do not want to see it. I do not want their pity, being a widow after less than two years and returning to my childhood home to live with my unmarried sisters. And more than that, I do not want to go there and see everyone else be the same as they ever were, when I feel so different from the person I was when I left. I am being cowardly, but that is how it is."

Bingley lightly took her hand and placed it in the crook of his arm. "You are not cowardly," he said, looking at her. "You have had a difficult year. You must do whatever you require to recover from your experience, for your son's sake and also your own. You have all the time in the world to go back there and it should not occur a single day before you feel ready."

She nodded. He saw her eyes shining, but outwardly she was completely composed. He was moved by her strength.

He continued: "I too feel different from the person I was only two years ago. Not all my friends understand my new outlook and habits, but Darcy does. I have begun to surround myself only with people who are supportive, and you are doing the right thing by doing the same."

"Thank you, Mr Bingley." 

She reflected on his words, and he watched her.

After a minute she smiled up at him. "Now, are you ready for our ride?"

He looked ahead, surprised they were already there. "I am very much looking forward to it," he said warmly.

When they approached the entrance the stable boy came to meet them. "Which saddle will you use today, ma'am?" 

"Oh," Jane glanced quickly at Bingley, "the side-saddle, please."

"Please do not mind me," he attempted to reassure her; "you may ride astride if you prefer. I will not tell anyone," he added with a grin.

She laughed lightly, and shook her head. "Thank you, but I will ride side-saddle."

Their ride was most pleasant. She could not achieve the same speed seated that way, but he allowed her to set the pace and direction. He cared not how fast or how far they went as long as he could enjoy her companionship.

Later, as they walked back to the house he amused her with stories from his recent sojourn in London, feeling pleased as her spirits rose from their earlier serious discussion. She had a charming laugh that he endeavoured to provoke frequently.

"Thank you for the ride and conversations, Mr Bingley," she said as they climbed the staircase inside.

"The pleasure was all mine," he replied.

They smiled and separated to their respective floors to refresh themselves in their rooms, happy in the knowledge that they would be in company again soon.

A routine became established over the following days. Bingley joined Jane each morning to ride across the fields. After a few days she relented to his coaxing and switched back to riding astride, which she truly preferred. They enjoyed their walks to and from the stables as much as the exercise itself, for those were the times they could partake of their only private conversation of the day.

The rest of each day would be spent with the others; sometimes Bingley and Darcy separated for their own activities, other times the entire group was together. Meals were more lively for having such an addition to their family party. Whenever Jane brought William from the nursery Bingley eagerly took a turn playing with the little fellow. He loved children for their pureness and simple joy, and William rapidly grew attached to the jovial man who would always make him laugh and have a toy handy. Watching them together made Jane's heart swell.

One day, about a week after Bingley's arrival, Jane sought out her sister while the gentlemen were playing billiards and Georgiana was practising the pianoforte.

"Lizzy, I need your help," she said.

Seeing her distress, Elizabeth immediately stood up from her work and pulled Jane to a settee to sit together.

"What is the matter?" she asked with growing concern, seeing her sister's furrowed brow.

"Well, I—I rather like Mr Bingley," Jane said. She blushed and looked down.

Elizabeth's lips split into a wide grin. "I am very happy to hear that," she replied.

"No, Lizzy—I mean,"—she covered her face with her hands—"I mean I like him. In the way you liked Fitzwilliam when you met in Kent."

Elizabeth pulled Jane's hands away and held them in her own. "I know," she said gently; "I am glad."

"But no, I cannot," Jane cried. "It is improper. It is… indecent . I am still in full mourning," and she gestured to her black dress.

"Listen to me. I understand your concern. You feel you are dishonouring your late husband."

Jane nodded.

"But you are not courting. You are not going out in society or dancing. Whatever your feelings may be, you are not doing anything wrong."

"But that cannot be enough. I cannot forget him so soon as to have these feelings for another man; feelings I never even had for him," she finished in a whisper.

"You cannot help your feelings, only your actions. You are the most perfectly proper woman I know. Right now you are merely making a friend. Perhaps that will become more in the future, when you are at liberty to become attached, but you need not concern yourself with the future just yet. Adding people to your life does not mean you have forgotten anyone from your past."

"Lizzy, what if my feelings grow during his visit, and then he leaves and forgets me? What if he will not wait for me?"

"Then he will not be worthy of you, my dear Jane." Elizabeth squeezed her hands, which were still in her own. "He knows your situation. I believe he cares for you too, and he will respect the limitations that must be imposed on you while you are both here. If he forgets you when he leaves, then you must forget him and be happy knowing that you learned he was wrong for you before any courtship occurred or promises were made."

"And what if he does not forget me? When will I see him again?"

"We will find a way," Elizabeth smiled. "Perhaps you will come to London with us this winter and he will be there. Perhaps you will visit Longbourn while he is residing at Netherfield. Recall how Fitzwilliam and I found each other again last year after several months apart; it will happen if it is meant to be."

Jane nodded vigorously and looked at the floor, thinking hard. Elizabeth did not think she was dishonouring her mourning period; was she correct? Did Mr Bingley truly return her nascent feelings?

"I feel he really listens when I talk, and that he truly understands me, Lizzy," she said. "I never felt that Mr Collins listened to me. I scarcely even spoke to him, he did so much talking himself. It is wonderful to feel heard."

She finally looked at her sister again, who smiled reassuringly.

"You deserve every happiness, and to be appreciated for who you are. You have waited so long for it, and you must wait a little more, but I believe it will happen for you," Elizabeth told her.

"Thank you. I have been happy this past week since he came, but it has been clouded by my feelings of guilt… but I will do as you say. I will only think of it as making a friend, and expect nothing. If we are meant to be more, it will happen in its own time."

"Thank you for speaking with me, Jane." Elizabeth kissed her forehead. "I am so glad you are able to be cautiously optimistic about your future. You are young yet; and I insist that if you ever do remarry, it will only be for true love."

"I promise," Jane smiled. She stood up and smoothed her skirts. "I am going to spend time with William now. I will see you at dinner."

Elizabeth beamed as she watched her walk out of the room. She was quite certain her dearest sister would find happiness yet.

The next morning when Jane and Bingley met at what had become their usual meeting place before their ride, her cheerful greeting and brilliant smile took his breath away. He did not know what inspired this change from her usual reserve, but he was certain, from the rapid beating of his heart, that he never wanted it to stop.

Chapter Text

The month of May passed rapidly; too rapidly, in some people's opinions. Suddenly it was June and the end of Bingley's stay at Pemberley.

He and Jane had spent as much time together as they felt they properly could: riding when the weather permitted, and conversing among the others during meals and evening gatherings. Both were very conscious of her status as mourning widow and never alluded to the future, instead discussing more neutral subjects. 

He told her of Netherfield, how he loved overseeing its care and how much he had learned since making it his home. She shared more about her son and her experience of motherhood, her personal interests she pursued at Pemberley, and her impression of Lady Catherine. Enough time had passed that she was able to view her earlier months under that woman's patronage with some humour, and Bingley enjoyed those stories very much as they matched his own impression from his one meeting with her. 

He described his late parents and how he hoped he was realising their dreams for him in joining the landed gentry. She talked about her family, how proud she was of Elizabeth and Mary and her hopes for Kitty and Lydia. 

Their feelings for each other grew apace that month, and both could see the other's matching interest, though they could never speak of it.

Part of Jane lamented Mr Collins coming to Hertfordshire when he did and taking her away only weeks before she would have met Mr Bingley; but she loved her son too much, and he was too important to her beloved family's security, to regret the marriage that made him.

Part of Bingley rued the same, yet he knew he had not been ready at that time in his life to appreciate her as she deserved. Perhaps they would have met and married back then, but if, God willing, they married next year, he knew their lives would be better for having had these intervening years and life experiences.

The party of five all had breakfast together on the morning of Bingley's departure. He explained his plans to reside at Netherfield for the rest of the summer before heading to London sometime in September. He planned to invite a few friends as he did last year, adding with a grin, "For as long as there are unmarried ladies in Hertfordshire I will do my duty and provide bachelors to introduce to them."

As he made his farewells he approached Jane last. He gazed at her for a few moments, his eyes making a promise he could not put into words, willing her to understand what his heart longed to tell her. Finally he kissed her hand, simply saying, "Until we meet again."

The door to his carriage closed and he began to roll away. While Darcy and Georgiana walked inside Elizabeth looked anxiously at her sister. Jane, dear Jane, looked as composed as always, but Elizabeth knew better. Before she could ask how she was or what she needed, Jane told her she wanted to be with William and walked briskly to the nursery. Elizabeth knew they would talk when she felt ready.

The remaining members of the Bennet clan, excepting Mary and John, descended upon Pemberley at the beginning of July in anticipation of the birth of Elizabeth's child. Although it was now their third trip to the great estate, not one of them could help the same feelings of awe that had struck them the other two times.

One of the first evenings after dinner, Darcy and Mr Bennet loitered over their port before rejoining the ladies. Both had grown quite fond of the other and appreciated the rare chance for male company.

"What are your thoughts on Kitty and Lydia these days, Darcy?" his father-in-law asked.

"They have come a long way this past year," he replied. "I do believe nary a thought of an officer has crossed their minds in some time."

"True, the regiment has long since departed and will hopefully never return," the older man chuckled. "Your sister is likely a good influence as well. They do look forward to her letters."

"Elizabeth tells me you have been having them assist with estate matters."

"'Tis true. I should have had them handling tenants years ago. Seeing the way others live who have not had their privileges has been quite eye-opening for them. And they finally seem to understand that they must comport themselves as ladies in order to attract gentlemen of the standing they would like; the problem is the dearth of gentlemen in the Meryton area. We cannot hope to get lucky a second time with Mr Bingley's friends." He glanced casually at Darcy.

His son-in-law immediately understood. "I would like to observe them here a while longer before agreeing to host them in London, if you do not mind."

"I would never press you, Darcy."

Darcy nodded thoughtfully. "I believe Lydia is now seventeen and Catherine nearly nineteen?" At Mr Bennet's nod, he continued: "They are old enough, and it would be convenient to have them presented at the same time as Georgiana this January. It would also ease Georgiana's nervousness considerably to have friends coming out with her."

He thought some more while Mr Bennet watched.

"They are now worth five thousand apiece, between your saving and my small contribution, is that correct?" Bennet nodded again. "And it would likely benefit all three of them to have a season together. I am starting to like this idea. I will certainly consider it, and discuss it with Elizabeth."

The other man smiled. "That is all I ask. I appreciate it."

They sat and drank in silence for a few minutes.

"I hear Mr Bingley had a recent visit here," Mr Bennet said.

"Indeed; for about a month."

"Since my first meeting with the man I thought he and Jane would suit, but of course she was already married when he first came to Hertfordshire."

Darcy stifled a smile. The man was as bad as his wife, if a little more subtle.

"An interesting thought," he replied.

"But now Jane is no longer married," Bennet pressed.

"Another astute observation," Darcy said.

Bennet chuckled. He would be forced to ask outright. "And how did they get on while he was here? He did not speak much of her when I saw him."

Darcy did not desire to offer his opinion. It was clear to him that the pair were rapidly falling in love, they did indeed suit, and his wife was in agreement on both points. However, Jane was a free and independent woman. She may be Bennet's daughter, and living in Darcy's house, but she was under neither of their guardianship. He did not want to discuss her as though she were.

"You will have to ask Jane," was all he said in reply.

Isabelle Anne Darcy was born on the twelfth of July. It was a grueling twenty hours of labour but Elizabeth had the support of Jane, Mrs Bennet, and an experienced midwife, and her husband had the support of Mr Bennet and a bottle of port.

Darcy was overjoyed by the arrival of his daughter. The first time he held her he knew he was lost; her beautiful eyes, so like his beloved wife's, captured his own and he pledged to give her the best life he could.

For the remainder of the Bennets' visit whenever the children were brought from the nursery to join the family for a period of time they all would squabble over whose turn it was to hold little Isabelle. Lydia and Kitty may have taken more than their fair share with their niece, but what everyone loved best was seeing the two infants interact together. At eight months old William was curious about his newborn cousin and it made everyone laugh to see him poking and patting her while she squirmed.

Elizabeth was correct that her husband was not amused by her jokes about Isabelle and William marrying. "You will cause them to rebel and marry others who are completely unsuitable," he objected one evening when the family of three were alone.

"I would say that outcome worked out quite well for you. Though perhaps you constantly pine for Rosings without my knowledge."

"I regret nothing," he said, as he held his wife and daughter close.

"Jane, are you certain you will not come to London with us? It is only for six weeks or so, and you need not attend any society events," Elizabeth pressed her sister in October.

Jane smiled. "William and I will be quite content here as always, but I thank you."

"Well, a carriage will be at your disposal so you may change your mind, or even venture to Longbourn if you prefer. Kitty and Lydia will be with us for about half that time as all three girls commission their gowns and receive their tutoring for their presentation at Court."

"I will miss them, and I do miss the Gardiners dreadfully, but I am not ready to attempt London. I will join you after Christmas, I promise."

In truth, Jane was reluctant to be in a situation where she may see Mr Bingley again before she was completely free. They had not seen each other in four months, but she was willing to wait three more to avoid the constraints of their earlier non-courtship. It was too hard to see her dreams directly before her yet still out of reach.

She had met many men in her short life, had even been married, and she was certain that he was the one with whom she wanted to spend her life. He was kind, attentive, and fun. They had much in common and she felt happiness and peace whenever he was near. As time passed she grew more comfortable comparing him to Mr Collins, and Mr Bingley always appeared in a more favourable light by the exercise.

Where Collins had false humility, Bingley exhibited true modesty. Where Collins flattered, Bingley pleased. Where Collins coveted Longbourn, Bingley was content anywhere he had good company. Where Collins deferred to his patroness in all things, even to his own detriment, Bingley learned from his experiences and grew confident in himself—including taking his younger sister in hand, as Jane learned from Elizabeth. 

Simply put, Mr Bingley was a man she could admire and love.

A few days after that conversation she held William as they waved off the four Darcys, then settled into a quiet morning. She debated internally whether she did the correct thing by staying. What if she spent seven months waiting for a man who was even now courting another? What if she pined for so long that when they did meet again she was disappointed—or he was? Would it not be better to know now if her wait would be for naught?

But no: Elizabeth would be in company with him. He would ask about her, or not, and he would be seen with other young ladies, or not. She could trust Elizabeth to tell her all, even if it were painful. She would have faith in her feelings, memories and hopes. She would have faith in his.

If only she knew how desperately he wished to see her again, she would have had nothing to fear.

The Darcys went to London in mid-October, and they returned to Pemberley at the beginning of December. As they did the previous year they hosted the Bennet family for Christmas and this time it was with the additions of the Gardiners and Mary, John, and their newborn son Philip. 

"What joy this is," cried Mrs Bennet as Christmas of 1813 was drawing to a close, "to have so many children for Christmas! Last year we had only William, and this year two more! Not to mention the young Gardiners who are growing so fast," she smiled affectionately at her four nieces and nephews.

Darcy looked around and beamed. There were nineteen people in this room. Less than three years ago he would not have believed he would have such a family, including a minor country squire and a tradesman with their numerous and boisterous offspring. Yet here they all were, polluting the shades of Pemberley as his aunt would say, and he was blissfully happy. Thanks to Elizabeth he had learned what was most important in life, and it was not strict adherence to duty, it was love. 

He bounced his little Isabelle where he held her in his lap. "To continue the trend we must have three children born before next Christmas. Mary may have one, and unfortunately, Elizabeth, it falls to you to bear twins."

"Do not even joke about it," she laughed. "One at a time was quite enough."

"Well it will not be me ," Mary interjected. "Philip is hardly two months old. Two more in less than a twelvemonth may kill me."

"There, Elizabeth, are you trying to kill your sister?" Darcy spoke with a serious expression but a gleam in his eye. "We must have twins. There is no other way."

"I know you desire a large family, but I shall oblige you with only one next year. I have made my final decision," she answered.

He sighed dramatically. "Mrs Bennet, I must apologise for my wife ruining next Christmas. I did my best, as you must have heard."

"Lizzy always did delight in vexing me," she declared, and everyone laughed.

"Wait a moment," Lydia burst in, "There are three of us having our London come-out in only a matter of weeks. Perhaps I will meet someone at my first ball, fall madly in love, and marry in time to have a child before December."

"Now that is too much," Mr Bennet interjected. "Darcy, if either of my daughters marries within a month of joining your household I will never trust you again."

"Georgiana may not attempt such a scheme either," Darcy nodded.

"Jane has been quiet this whole conversation," Kitty said. "She will re-enter society at the same time as we come out. She may surprise us all and have a brother or sister for William next year!"

Everyone laughed and Jane blushed brightly. Only Darcy, Elizabeth and Georgiana suspected that not only was Kitty's joke in the realm of possibilities, but also her cherished hope.

The party carried on in this lively manner for some time, until one by one they all left for their beds. It was the best Christmas any could remember in a long time.

"Mrs Collins. Jane." Charles Bingley took a deep breath. "I knew from the first moment I laid eyes on you that you are the most beautiful woman in England, and I knew within the first day of knowing you that you have answered all my wishes for my partner in life. 

"I fell in love with you at Pemberley for your kindness, wisdom, and gentle spirit. I have never met anyone who so inspired me to be a better man before you. Every decision I have made these last eight months has been with your happiness in mind, and I want it to be that way for the rest of my life.

"I know it is too soon to ask, but I cannot live another minute without knowing if I have hope, if you can ever return my feelings and will consent to be my wife. Jane, I love you. Will you marry me?"

Jane Collins had not expected this offer of marriage—at least, not yet. Mr and Mrs Bennet and the Lucases had departed from Pemberley a few days after Christmas at the same time as the Gardiners, while her youngest sisters stayed on. The party of Darcys, Collinses, Kitty and Lydia later travelled in two carriages, with a few servants in a third, and the convoy only arrived in London the previous day.

The moment Bingley heard they were in town he hastened to their house. As it was still early the butler showed him into the morning parlour where only Darcy, Elizabeth and Jane were gathered. After a few minutes Darcy and Elizabeth slipped out quietly, giving Bingley his opportunity to speak.

Despite her surprise Jane did not hesitate an instant. "Yes! Yes, I do love you, and yes, I will marry you!"

"Thank you, Jane, thank you!" And before she knew what was happening he had pulled her to a tight embrace and spun her around. Her arms quickly wrapped around his neck and she laughed in delight. It felt so right; she did not think she had ever felt such joy. She closed her eyes and savoured the moment. 

After some time he pulled away just enough to gaze at her face. His smile was beatific; it was irresistible. She leaned in and gave him their first kiss.

The news of their sudden engagement threw the house into chaos. Elizabeth once again held back tears—but this time it was tears of gladness. Kitty reminded all who would listen that she had predicted this at Christmas. Lydia, though genuinely happy for her sister, could not help wondering how their wedding would impact her time in town, but was reassured that all that would be required of her was a few days in Hertfordshire. 

The happy couple decided on a small wedding ceremony that would occur just days after the third banns reading.

"Poor Mama will never have the opportunity to plan the large society wedding of her dreams," Elizabeth laughed.

"Do not fear that," Lydia replied. "When I marry, my wedding shall be the grandest in the family!"

"Perhaps when I marry, your mother would like to assist my aunt in planning it," Georgiana softly suggested.

Darcy smiled at her. "You may ask her, if that is what you would like, but I am not ready to think about losing you yet. Let us get through this season before any of the rest of you consider marriage," he pointed around the room at his three youngest sisters.

"I will not promise," Lydia teased saucily, and the girls giggled.

Despite her words, Lydia was in no hurry to marry. Ever since that trip to the Peaks when she overheard her father speaking of men and marriage with Georgiana, her relationship with her father had markedly improved. She began to listen when he appeared to be serious—which in turn led him to be serious more often rather than making sport all the time. She also reflected on her sisters' marriages. Though she still did not quite understand why Elizabeth was so madly in love with the stern Mr Darcy, she did know she wanted the same, rather than a marriage of convenience to an ugly and boring man like Mr Collins. 

She and Kitty spoke of their future marriages often, and both agreed it was far better to wait for a better man than to rush to gain the attention of an engagement period and wedding but for a man who was poor and who would give them a dull life. They further realised that having a brother like Mr Darcy would cause them to meet far superior men than they currently knew. If they were patient, and proved to him they could be good, the rewards would be well worth it. 

Perhaps it was not the most mature and selfless thinking, but the end result was the same: they were finally here to have the London season they had dreamed of.

Darcy was nervous. 

The girls' presentation to the Queen had gone well earlier that day: their complaints about their uncomfortable dresses and silly curtsies had been confined to the carriage ride and they had behaved perfectly well at St James's Court. He reflected, not for the first time, that the desire to not appear unfavourably compared to Georgiana was likely the biggest contributor to Kitty and Lydia's good behaviour in public, but that was fine, for it worked.

But now it was time for their joint debut ball, and this was where the greatest risk lay in his hosting them in London. Where there was dancing, punch, and men, he would always be nervous for his wife's youngest sisters.

"Remember the rules," he told them both quietly as they stood next to him awaiting the first guests. "If either of you disappears for more than ten minutes, you both will be required to leave. If either of you drinks too much, laughs too loudly, or otherwise causes a scene, you both will leave. If there are two such incidents you will both return to Longbourn."

"I know," said Lydia.

"Yes, sir," said Kitty.

Guests arrived, dancing began, and merriment ensued. The girls met many gentlemen and ladies, some Earls and Countesses, even a couple of Dukes and Duchesses. They lamented that Darcy's Viscount cousin had recently married, though they both liked his other cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, very well. The feeling was not mutual, although the Colonel was too polite to say so.

Elizabeth had a wonderful night. Though she had now been married a year and a half, they had spent little time in London yet and so she had not made many new friends. However, her natural charm and aptitude for conversation meant deriving pleasure from her large number of new acquaintances as well as the old friends who were in attendance this night. As she took a turn about the ballroom, everywhere she looked she found someone with whom to exchange a smile or a word.

She saw her dear friend, Mrs Charlotte White, and learned all the latest news about her six-month-old daughter. She was shocked and pleased to hear that Charlotte and her husband were already expecting their second child. She rejoiced in the happy marriage made by her friend who had at one time begun to lose hope that she would ever marry at all.

She saw Bingley's sisters, Mrs Louisa Hurst and Mrs Caroline Johnson, who both looked better than they had when she first knew them in Hertfordshire. Mrs Hurst had also recently had her first child and motherhood quite became her. Despite never being friends previously, Elizabeth and Louisa graciously exchanged congratulations and discussed their children with enthusiasm. Caroline was perhaps not as happy as she ought to be, considering her wealth and life of comfort married to a successful businessman, but Elizabeth reflected that she may simply be the type of person who was never satisfied with what she had; who always wanted what was out of reach. She gave Caroline a polite greeting and moved on.

She saw Kitty, Lydia and Georgiana all dancing with fine-looking gentlemen, no doubt all vetted by her husband. Though there had been points in time where she feared for her two sisters' respectability, at this moment the futures of all three of these girls were looking so very bright. 

She saw Jane dancing for the first time in more than two years. She and her betrothed wore matching besotted expressions, and Elizabeth prayed that those feelings, held by two of the most deserving people she knew, would last for all their lives. She stopped to watch them for a few minutes. The joy she could feel emanating from Jane made her even more lovely than she was and always had been. She discerned, with a chuckle, more than one man nearby who appeared envious of Bingley's good fortune in snapping up this previously unknown beauty. 

She saw the former Churchill sisters, now Mrs Olivia Wilson and Mrs Emma Matthews, both glaring daggers at Jane. Neither had made quite as good a match as Bingley would have been, and it appeared as though they were not reconciled to that fact; especially when the winner of that prize was the former Jane Bennet, whose beauty had always been a source of envy for them. As much as they wished to, they could not complain to their former partners in gossip, Caroline and Louisa. Those ladies had the sense to understand that, however they felt about Mr Darcy marrying Elizabeth Bennet, their brother would now be marrying Darcy's sister, and that was a very good thing.

Lastly, as she completed her circuit, Elizabeth came upon her husband. Her dear Fitzwilliam, the light of her life: so serious in public, yet so silly with only her. So strong and responsible in discharging his duties to his family and estate, and so loving and kind to those closest to him. After one and a half years of marriage she believed she still loved him more with each passing day.

"Dearest, do you plan to stare at our sisters all night, or will you ever ask me to dance?" she teased.

He turned to her and smiled. "Perhaps I can do both," he answered. "Are you free for the next?"

"I am," and she held his arm contentedly while they waited for the current set to reach its end.

The night was a success, and when the last guests departed Darcy congratulated the girls on making their debut. 

"You were lovely and graceful, and I am proud of you all," he told them, and all three were gratified by the rare compliment from their strict and much older brother.

Two weeks later was the wedding uniting Jane and Bingley. How different it was from her last! And yet, Jane reflected, how much good had come from that first union to which she had consented for the sake of others. For, thanks to Mr Collins, she had her beloved son William, who would one day inherit Longbourn. Her mother no longer feared for her future. Her father had stirred himself to make improvements to the estate and his other four daughters. Two of them had made felicitous marriages, and the other two would surely do the same under Darcy's influence. Her second marriage may be her dream come true but she would always be thankful for her first.

Elizabeth laughingly said once that her own happiness was only possible thanks to Jane doing her duty and Fitzwilliam failing to do his, and that made it difficult for her to know what to teach her own children. In Jane's opinion, doing one's duty was not accomplished by blind obedience to external pressures, but rather by seeking solutions to produce the greatest benefit to the most people. Given the results for Rosings, where the estate remained in the de Bourgh line where it belonged and Lady Catherine was banished to the dower house where she belonged, Jane felt Darcy's decision had been wise and dutiful after all.

The wedding and celebratory breakfast afterwards were enjoyable for all, but it was not long before Bingley whisked his bride away to Netherfield where they would stay until they felt ready to return to London. Darcy arranged for his staff to send the rest of her belongings from Pemberley and, later that spring, her treasured horse Spirit.

The Bingleys would go on to purchase Netherfield, and the entire family rejoiced when their son was born in time for Christmas. Stephen Bingley and William Collins grew up to be the best of friends and brothers and, eventually, excellent masters to their neighbouring estates. Charles gave his beloved Jane the easy and pampered life she deserved and they were deliriously happy together.

A couple of days after the wedding the Darcys returned to London with Kitty and Lydia to enjoy the remaining months of the season. Though none of the three young ladies acquired any serious suitors that year they had wonderful experiences and made many friends. All three would marry within a few years and although their new homes were spread out across the country they always remained close friends.

John and Mary Lucas lived out their days peacefully at Lucas Lodge, with annual trips to Pemberley, and went on to have two more children.

Elizabeth kept her promise to her husband and instead of producing twins that year, as he jokingly asked for and secretly wished, she did give birth to their son and heir, Bennet George Darcy. Their two other children, Edward and Jane, completed their family over the next several years.

One night in the summer after the girls' first season ended, while Georgiana was enjoying an extended visit to the Matlocks' estate and Darcy and Elizabeth had Pemberley to themselves, they went up to the roof to watch the stars. 

They stood for some time in silence, him holding her from behind, contemplating the magnificence of the universe and their joyous home within it.

"Two years ago today we married," he finally spoke.

"The best decision either of us ever made," she replied.

"Thank you for accepting me, for Isabelle, and for the child you are carrying now," he said after a couple more minutes. "The years since I met you have been the happiest of my life."

She turned around and smiled affectionately at him through the dark. "My love," she said, "we have only just begun. There is still so much happiness to come."