Leaps and Bounds

Darcy immediately opened the door, pulled Jane out and started running towards the house. Bingley waking from his shock followed to help. They rushed into the house screaming for help and placed Jane in the guestroom next to Darcy. Caroline and Louisa stood in shock as Darcy ran past them with a limp and bleeding Jane in his arms. The servants ran to get blankets and other supplies to care for the young lady. After one of the maids removed her soaked clothing and put one of Caroline's nightgown's on her, Bingley came in to hold her as the maid redressed the bed. Bingley laid her tenderly back down on the bed and held a cloth against her head where the blood was coming from. Eventually after a few minutes the blood stream stopped, Bingley let out a deep sigh and he was able to dress her wound. Darcy volunteered to go to the Bennet's and advise them of the situation and Bingley agreed.

Darcy ran back out to the road, turned his car around and sped toward Longbourn.

The Bennet family had all gathered in the living room, where they could keep each other company in the storm. The house was dark as the lights went off about a 25 minutes ago. Suddenly they all jumped at the banging on the door. Elizabeth went to find out what it was.

Darcy came bursting through the door. "There's been an accident! Jane's hurt!"

"What?! Where?" How bad?!" All of the Bennet's came out to the entryway when they heard his first words.

"A tree fell on her car, right outside of Netherfield!" He paused to catch his breath while the family gasped. "Charles and I were just arriving when we came across her. I, I took her out of the car and ran to the house. We have no lights and neither does the hospital. She's breathing, but she's not awake."

"Oh my dear, dear Jane!" screamed Mrs. Bennet and fainted in Mary's arms.

While Lydia helped Mary carry Mrs. Bennet to the couch, Mr. Bennet said, "Lizzy, you go with Mr. Darcy and I'll go see if I can fetch Dr. Knightley." None of them remembered that Bingley was a doctor.

Elizabeth, still in a daze, went to the closet and grabbed her coat. She turned around to look for something but couldn't remember what it was. She ran out to the car with Darcy, it was still raining. On the drive back to Netherfield, Darcy saw that Elizabeth was still in shock and he reached for her hand and squeezed it. A single tear fell from her eye and he melted.

Darcy pulled up to the tree and as Elizabeth jumped out, she gasped almost ready to breakdown at the sight of her sister's crumpled and covered car. But recovering herself, she ran towards the house with Darcy along side her. He showed her where she was, she turned around to him with such a look in her eyes; they said 'thank you' so deeply, he had to turn away.

Elizabeth opened the door quietly, "Hi Charles, how is she?" He shrugged as she pulled off her coat

"She was bleeding from the head, but it has stopped now," he said as he never took his eyes off Jane.

"Here let me see." She sat on the bed and turned Jane's head toward her slowly and heard her sister moan. "Shh Jane, I'm here," she whispered. Elizabeth examined the cut and saw that it wasn't deep, just long. "My father went to get Dr. Knightley, but I think she'll be just fine." She grabbed his hand as he stood by her. "I'm glad you showed up when you did."

"I'm glad William was there with me... Lizzy, I just froze when I saw her," he said shakily, then lowered his head in shame, "If William wasn't there, I don't know what I would have done... He pulled her out and carried her into the house. He did it all, I just watched... I am thoroughly ashamed that I couldn't help."

"You were just too close to the situation and you froze. I would have done the same thing. Don't worry about it! God saw fit to bring you both when you did." She squeezed his hand and thought about Darcy carrying her sister. Thank You! Elizabeth said silently and promised herself to thank Darcy in person the next time she saw him.

After a few hours, Darcy knocked on the door and advised Bingley and Elizabeth that dinner was being served. Bingley told Elizabeth that he would bring her a plate. Elizabeth was about to give Darcy her appreciation, but he quickly left from the room. Bingley was true to his word, he brought a plate of food up within a few minutes and went back down to the dining room to eat with his family and friend in silence.

After another hour, Mr. Bennet brought the doctor. They were immediately shown upstairs and a relieved Elizabeth hugged her father. "What took you so long," she whispered as the doctor went to work on the patient.

"The hospital was overrun with casualties. The good doctor could not leave, nor could anyone else."

"She has a slight concussion and a long cut on her head, but she'll be fine. Dr. Bingley, I see, did what was required... She needs to stay right where she is though, for at least 3 days. I'll send over some medicine for the pain, because she's going to wake up with one hell of a headache. Someone needs to watch her constantly."

"I'll be here with her."

"Good. Here's my pager number. If you need me, call me."

"Lizzy, here's a suitcase with the some clothes for you and Jane, well at least enough for a few days," said Mr. Bennet.

"Thanks dad. How's mom?"

"She's coping as only she can. Look, I've been gone way too long and your mother will only worry more. And I have to get the doctor back to the hospital." He leaned over Jane and kissed her on the cheek and kissed Elizabeth on the forehead, then he left the room.

Bingley met him at the bottom of the steps, "Mr. Bennet..." he started, however, he could not utter another word.

Mr. Bennet just patted him on the back. "Thank God, you and Mr. Darcy came back when you did. She's gonna be just fine, son. You did a good job." Bingley smiled a sigh, as Darcy watched the scene from the other room. Mr. Bennet nodded to Darcy and left with the doctor.

"William," called Bingley from the entryway and Darcy came to him, "I didn't have the opportunity to thank you for being there with me. If you hadn't..."

"I'm glad I could help Charles..." Darcy grabbed his friend's shoulder to give him support. "She'll be fine, you heard Mr. Bennet!"

"Damn it William," he spun away. "I'm a doctor and I couldn't help her! What good am I when I can't help someone I care about."

"Look Charles, you may not have been able to get her out of the car, but you were able to make sure she wasn't in any serious danger and stitched her up as well. I couldn't have done that!"

"Yes... But I don't think I'll be able to get that picture of her out of my mind for sometime."

"Me neither," Darcy shuddered. As it was getting dark, the servants lit candles through out the house. The 'crew' all went upstairs to their bedrooms, except Bingley.

Bingley went to make sure everything was all right in Jane and Elizabeth's room. "I'm sure we have a cot or something for you. I'll make sure we find something."

"Don't worry, I can sleep on the floor if I have to. Besides another bed can't fit in here."

"You're right. Then we'll make a palette for you on the floor." As Bingley was saying this, a knock came to the door.

It was Darcy carrying several blankets and pillows. "I thought you might need these," he said sheepishly as Elizabeth looked on in astonishment.

"Thank you," Elizabeth said as she went over to help him. As he was about to leave, she grabbed his arm, "Thank you, so very much," as her eyes began to well up again. He smiled, though he wanted to kiss her, but backed away. Elizabeth wondered at Darcy. One moment he's cold and aloof, the next he's nice and attentive. I don't get it!

As Wickham was drinking in the local pub when the storm hit and the lights went out, he laughed again at his luck. Amidst the panic and darkness, he stole several bottles of whatever he could get his hands on and left without paying his tab.

Jane was still unconscious, Elizabeth stayed constantly by her side and meals were brought up to her room. Bingley came up every hour-on-the-hour to check on her condition. The others stayed downstairs or in their rooms. They had nothing to do because of the rain.

Mid-morning, Caroline and Louisa came to visit Elizabeth and Jane. But before the visitors came, Elizabeth had taken one of Bingley's horses out to the hospital to pick up the prescriptions left for Jane, since Dr. Knightley was unable to find anyone available to send the medicine out to Netherfield the night before. Caroline and Louisa only stayed for a few minutes.

All the electricity was restored in the area, the tree and car were removed from the road and everything was back to normal, except it continued to rain.

In the morning, an hour before Bingley came to visit, Jane had awakened with a major headache and Elizabeth gave her the pain medicine, which put her back to sleep. He asked about Jane's condition, checked her pulse and color; asked Elizabeth how she slept and promised to bring breakfast as soon as it was ready. He only stayed for a few minutes before and after breakfast.

After breakfast, Caroline and Louisa stopped by the room, they asked of Jane's condition and commented at length on how bad they would feel if they were in the same situation. They talked of their shopping trip with Jane the other day and wondered who would take them around while Jane was recovering. Caroline talked on and on about Darcy; how strong he is, how he is so quick on his feet, how small Jane looked in his huge arms, etc. Before they left the room, they promised to visit after lunch. Elizabeth was relieved at their departure and regretted their return.

Later during lunch, Louisa began to condemn Elizabeth, "Well, she must be an excellent rider, I guess, but her appearance the other morning when she returned from wherever she went, she nearly looked almost wild."

"I could hardly keep from laughing," inserted Caroline. "What does she mean by scampering about the countryside and on a horse, no less?!" She laughed, "Her hair, Louisa! Did you see it?!"

"The mud splattered on her clothes! I hope you saw her clothes, Charles?" Louisa continued, "Her boots were covered at least three inches in mud. I'm absolutely certain!"

"I didn't even notice," said Bingley. "I thought she looked quite well after riding at least 20 miles on horseback to get medicine for her sister."

Frustrated that her brother couldn't see Elizabeth for the guttersnipe that she was, Caroline turned to Darcy. "You saw her William, didn't you?"

Darcy shaken out of his memory of Elizabeth that morning; her hair flying in the wind and her cheeks reddened by the cold morning air, could only reply, "I did."

"I don't think you would want your sister to go traipsing around in the dark?"

"Certainly not," he snapped, returning to reality.

"To me, it shows that she is conceited and too independent."

"Well to me, it show she loves her sister," snapped Bingley.

"She surely could have asked someone else to go for her."

"She probably didn't want to wake us, so she went herself," interjected Bingley.

"Well, William," continued Caroline, "I believe that this little escapade may have affected your admiration for her fine eyes."

"Not at all, Caroline. I do believe her eyes were brightened by the exercise," he smiled mischievously.

Caroline was miffed and had nothing else to say on the subject, and she looked at her sister for assistance in her attack.

"But Jane Bennet," interjected Louisa, "is a sweet girl. It's very sad though, that she should have such an embarrassing family with no connections or money."

"Their uncle, she told us, owns a little trinket shop and lives in the Southeast part of D.C.," Caroline sneered, hoping that Bingley and Darcy would see the light. Because everyone knew that crime and drugs were rampant in Southeast, D.C.

"Perhaps we should stop by, when we get back to town," said Louisa. Both sisters laughed.

"You know what, Jane and Elizabeth would be just as nice, if all their uncles lived in the Southeast!" demanded Bingley. "I'm really fed up with this 'rich versus poor' attitude! We didn't grow up like that."

"But Charles, with no money, Jane and Elizabeth have very little chance of meeting and marrying men who would be able to take care of them and possibly their family. I mean, their father doesn't have that long on this earth," added Darcy. "That is the material point."

They were interrupted when Elizabeth came into the dining room. What they didn't know was that Elizabeth was listening to the end of their conversation; she was about to tell them all where to go when Bingley jumped and inquired after her sister. Elizabeth reported that her sister was still only semi-conscious. Seeing Bingley upset at this news and hearing him defend her and Jane earlier, Elizabeth said nothing else and went back up to their room. Elizabeth vowed to revenge on Caroline, Louisa and William.

That evening at Netherfield and after dinner had been brought to her room; Elizabeth took a break. She thought she might unwind with a little solitary game of pool. However, when she walked downstairs to the game room, she saw Darcy alone. He was about to say something to her when she suddenly turned around and walked away without a word.

She went back upstairs to the main floor and joined the Bingley party in the living room. They asked her to join their card game, but Elizabeth declined and walked towards a table where there were a few books and magazines lying about.

Darcy came in the room a few moments after Elizabeth. "How's Jane?"

"Fine." Elizabeth didn't even look up; Darcy could only wonder.

"How can anyone prefer reading to cards?" inquired Jimmy.

"Eliza despises cards. She's a great reader and finds no pleasure in anything else," Caroline joked.

"Caroline, I'm not sure if you're praising me or criticizing me," said Elizabeth. "But anyway, yes I read a lot, but I'm not a great reader and I find pleasure in many things." Like getting you back! And what's up with this 'Eliza' business?

"If these aren't enough to interest you Elizabeth. I'm sure I could find you something to read, maybe William has a few books he could spare," said Bingley.

"Thank you, no."

"I am amazed," said Caroline, "that Charles would have so small a collection of books down here and at home. However, William has a huge library at Pemberley."

"It ought to be good, it's been the work of many generations," smiled Darcy, happy to be included in the conversation and happy that Elizabeth would get to know him better.

"And you've added so much to it yourself. You are always buying books!"

"With so much out there to know and understand, I can't comprehend anyone, with the resources and space, of course, neglecting to have a library."

"Neglect! I'm sure you neglect nothing that can be added to the beauty and splendor of that noble and elegant place..." praised Caroline. "Charles, when you build your own house, I hope it will be as wonderful as Pemberley!"

"So do I!" said Bingley.

"But I would really advise you to purchase your house in Montgomery County, Maryland, and take Pemberley as a sort of model. It is the most prestigious county in all of the metropolitan area and then you would have the finest house."

"With all my money, I would buy Pemberley if William would sell it."

"That isn't even possible Charles!" Caroline nearly screamed.

"Caroline, I think it would be easier to buy Pemberley, than to copy it."

Elizabeth was so caught up on what had just been said, as to leave her little attention for her book. The conversation then turned when Darcy sat at the desk to write a letter to his sister.

"William," sang Caroline. "What are you doing over there?"

"I'm writing a letter," said Darcy.

"Why write when you can call?" smiled Caroline, Elizabeth nodded in agreement.

"My sister likes it when I write. She says that I express myself better in my letters." Elizabeth raised an eyebrow at that admission.

"Sweet Georgiana! Has she grown much since the spring? Is she as tall as me?" giggled Caroline.

"She's about Elizabeth's height, or a little taller."

"Oh how I miss her! So sweet and demure! And I hear she's a 'professional woman' now!"

"It's amazing how many young women are going into the professional ranks now, compared to the seventies and eighties," interjected Bingley. "They work hard all day, come home, cook and clean, take care of their families..."

"I don't know half-a-dozen women who would satisfy my idea of a professional woman," interrupted Darcy.

"Oh, definitely," chimed Caroline. "No woman can be really be called professional who does not also possess a certain something, a pinache if you will, in her style of dress, in her manner of walking, the tone of her voice, her savvy and prospects."

"And to all that, she must still add something more substantial... In the improvement of her mind by extensive reading," smiled Darcy to Elizabeth, hoping she knew that he was including her in his estimation.

"I was surprised when you said you knew only six professional women, Mr. Darcy. Now I wonder that you know any," replied Elizabeth.

Darcy stared but said nothing. When did she start calling me Mr. Darcy again?

"Are you always so harsh on the female gender, Elizabeth?" asked Louisa.

"I've never met a woman who could do all that."

"Perhaps, you have not had the advantage of being in society enough, Eliza," spat Caroline. "There are many professional young women in D.C. Including myself!"

Darcy snickered, Bingley bit his lip, but no one said anything on Caroline's last comment. Soon afterwards Elizabeth left them and went to her room.

As soon as she felt Elizabeth was far enough away, Caroline began, "Eliza Bennet, is one those young women who try to get a man by underestimating all women; and with many men, it works. But in my opinion, it's a sleazy ploy and a cheap maneuver," she sneered, putting emphasis on cheap and sleazy.

"Without a doubt," replied Darcy, to whom this remark was chiefly addressed, "there is a little trickery in all the devices women use to get a man."

Caroline was not too happy with his response, but she said nothing.

The sun came out and so did Mrs. Bennet, along with Lydia and Kitty, to visit Netherfield and to appraise Jane's condition herself, although Elizabeth and Bingley called her at least 3 times a day. Mrs. Bennet felt that she could do more for her daughter if she stopped by. Doing more for her daughter, however, meant praising Jane's beauty and patience to the skies. Later during the visit, she became very agitated with Darcy, after he referred to country folk as 'limited and uninteresting.' Elizabeth tried in vain, to bring other subjects into the conversations. But each time she did, Mrs. Bennet proceeded to berate Darcy on the matter at every turn. Elizabeth was truly ashamed, but only because her mother was so loud and obnoxious in front of everyone. Elizabeth made a mental note to tell Darcy off on that matter too.

Lydia interrupted and reminded Bingley of his promise to give a housewarming. He replied, "only when your sister is fully recovered."

Mrs. Bennet and her daughters left, and Elizabeth returned instantly to Jane, leaving her own and her mother's behavior to the remarks of Caroline, Louisa and Darcy. Darcy, however, did not join in, in spite of all Caroline's spiteful comments on her 'fine eyes.'

Wickham was making rounds at the club, hoping to bump into Elizabeth. But since he hadn't yet, he decided to have a little fun with any and all the women at the club. With the more mature women, he would smile and patronize. With the younger ones, to which he had a distinct liking for, he would show a little skin or get a little close while showing them the proper way to swing a racket.

The next day passed as the last; Caroline and Louisa visited with Jane in the morning. And when Elizabeth was not in earshot, Caroline continued to tease Darcy of his 'upcoming marriage' to her.

Later that evening, Elizabeth joined the party in the living room. There she got into a heated argument with Darcy on the value of friendship.

"Is he always like this?" Elizabeth asked Bingley.

"Are you?" smiled Darcy. He was really enjoying this challenging and spirit-filled conversation with her and didn't want it to stop.

"I'm afraid so Elizabeth," said Bingley. "If William wasn't such a big tall man, I wouldn't pay him half the attention he demands. But, I don't know a more menacing person than William. I just get out of his way when has nothing to do! William is a restless soul, and when he can't move around, he is seriously moody. There have been so many occasions, like on a Saturday evening; and in particular places; like at his own house especially. Or like today. But you don't seem to be afraid of him. In fact, you seem to enjoy confronting him."

All three smiled, but Elizabeth thought she perceived that Darcy was more than offended. After that discussion, Bingley asked all the ladies to play something on the piano. Caroline ran for the piano, hoping to display her talents to Darcy. Elizabeth declined and both Darcy and Bingley were disappointed.

While Caroline was playing a top forty song, William went over to Elizabeth to ask, "Would you like to dance with me, Elizabeth? I believe I still owe you a dance."

She smiled, but made no answer. He repeated the question, with some surprise at her silence.

"Oh, I heard you before, but I didn't know exactly what to say... I know that you wanted to me to say 'Yes,' so that you might have something to laugh at. But I always get off in cheating a person of their premeditated plans. And to that, Mr. Darcy, my answer is No. I guess you'll have to find some other way to laugh at me.

"I, I had no intention... Do you really believe I would do something like that?"

"I wouldn't put it past you," she smirked.

"I'm sorry you feel that way." Darcy left her alone for the rest of the evening.

Elizabeth was expecting another argument, but instead she was amazed at his gallantry. Darcy wasn't expecting a refusal in that vane or attitude; but there was a mixture of sweetness and archness in her manner which made it difficult for her to make anybody really angry; and he had never been so bewitched by any woman as he was by her. He really believed that were it not for the inferiority of her family and fortune, he would be in some danger, some real danger.

Caroline noticed Darcy's interests in Elizabeth grow, and became even more jealous.

During the morning, while Jane slept, Elizabeth walked about the grounds. As it was a strangely warm day, she began running and playing with one of the dogs, as Darcy watched from the window. He became very aroused.

During the evening, Jane was feeling much better and Elizabeth brought her down to the living room for a while. Bingley, overjoyed by Jane's recovery, sat down beside her and talked only to Jane.

After spending a quiet hour of reading, Caroline became bored. She tried to get Darcy's attention on numerous occasions that evening, but he did not budge. She looked around, desperate for his attention; she came up with an idea to display her superiority over Elizabeth. "Eliza, you have been sitting in that same position for more than an hour. I know that your legs and back are stiff so how about doing some bending and stretching with me?"

"Right here?! Right now?!" Everyone looked up.

"Yes, why not?"

"I don't think so."

"Well then, how about we just walk around the room."

Elizabeth knew what Caroline was up to, but agreed to it anyway. "Sure."

Caroline smiled at her success and tucked Elizabeth's arm inside hers. They walked across the room. "Won't you join us, William?"

"That would defeat your purpose Caroline."

"What do you mean, William?" She turned to Elizabeth, "What on earth could he mean?!"

"I don't think we should ask any further."

"Well, I insist on knowing what you mean, William!" she giggled.

"I'll tell you then. Caroline, you know that your figure appears to the best advantage when you are walking, especially since that's how you made your living. But also that I might admire it from where I sit. Now the part that Elizabeth plays, is that you didn't want to strut your stuff alone... How would it look?" he teased.

"That's not what I had in mind at all William!" feigning shock, Caroline laughed. "You should be punished. How should we punish him, Eliza?"

"You know him better than I do. Your being so close and all."

"We are close, but I can't even imagine how to punish him!" Yes I can! Whips and Chains! Whips and Chains!

"Why don't you try teasing him or laughing at him."

"Tease him! Laugh at William! Impossible! He is perfect in every way!"

"Is he now? The perfect man!"

"That isn't possible, no one is perfect... But I do try to avoid those flaws that might expose a person to be laughed at or taken advantage of."

"Such as... conceitedness perhaps, and pride?"

"Yes, conceit is a weakness. But pride... when it's rightfully applied and when the person doesn't let it go to his or her head, pride can be a good trait to have."

Elizabeth had no chance to reply before Caroline interrupted. "I assume your examination of William is over?" Elizabeth smiled and nodded her head. "Then what is the result?"

"That Mr. Darcy is absolutely perfect. No faults! Nothing to laugh at or tease."

"I have faults enough Elizabeth, but I hope one of them is not of comprehension or shall we say, reason... My temper, however, I can't vouch for. It might be called... resentful. If I feel that someone has done me wrong, then my good opinion once lost is lost forever."

"That truly is a fault Mr. Darcy, but I can't laugh at it," she smirked and walked away.

Wanting to continue the conversation, Darcy said. "I believe everyone's make-up includes some sort of malevolent flaw. A natural defect, that not even the best education can overcome."

Elizabeth spun around. "Your flaw is a tendency to hate everyone!" she said as she stared at him.

Angry at her words, Darcy said, "And yours is to deliberately misunderstand them!" he returned her stare.

Caroline, tired of the conversation in which she had no share, interrupted and asked if anyone would mind if she played the piano. Darcy, after a few moments recollection was not sorry for the interruption. He began to feel the danger of paying Elizabeth too much attention, though he secretly admired her saucy challenges and confrontations.

Jane and Elizabeth planned to leave Netherfield this day, but with Bingley's urging, they stayed one more night.

To Darcy it was welcome news, for Elizabeth attracted him more than he liked. He resolved to be particularly careful that no sign of admiration should escape him now. Steady to his purpose, he probably spoke less than ten words to her throughout the whole day. There was a bit of uneasiness, when they were left alone in the living room for half-an-hour, but Darcy stuck to reading his book and wouldn't even look at her, but he thought about her regardless of his resolve.

Bingley made arrangements to take Jane and Elizabeth to church, where they would be picked up by their father to return home. Darcy went to go get the car, while Bingley said his good-byes and Caroline and Louisa hugged Jane, they even hugged Elizabeth.

"Elizabeth!" called Darcy as he jumped out of the car and ran across the lawn. She stopped and turned around, just as he was about to grab her arm. "I didn't want you to leave without my telling you how much I enjoyed our conversations."

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow. "Conversations! You can't be serious, Mr. Darcy. It was more like hand-to-hand combat in an all-out war!" They chuckled.

"Seriously, I really did... And when did you start calling me Mr. Darcy again? I thought we had an understanding... Lizzy and William?"

"I, I don't know you well enough. I'm not comfortable..."

"We can fix that," his voice lowered, finally giving into his feelings.

"How?"

"Go out with me," he almost whispered. The astonishment in Elizabeth's eyes was enough that he continued. "Let me take you out to dinner. How does this Tuesday night sound?"

"S-S-Sure," she stammered.

"Great, I'll call you tomorrow with some plans."

"Fine, okay." Darcy smiled, then turned and left to find the others, but Elizabeth could hardly believe what just happened. She and Jane got in their father's car and rode with their parents, back to Longbourn. As they rode back, Mrs. Bennet chatted on about Bingley and questioned Jane to no end about his attentions.

"Oh Jane! I'm sorry to say it, but I've never been so happy to leave a place in my life!" whispered Elizabeth as they sat in the backseat. "If it was possible that I never had to see them again, other than Charles, I think I'd died and gone to heaven."

"It couldn't have been that bad?"

"You weren't there Jane! Caroline has never forgiven me for spilling juice on her blouse and every time I came into the same room with her she tried to cut me up with her little snide remarks. And that Mr. Darcy, I don't know what his problem is!"

Jane shrugged and whispered, "Lizzy, don't jump to any conclusions. That may just be their nature."

"Sure Jane, whatever you say," placated Elizabeth. However, Elizabeth pondered the new turn of events. This is my way to get back at Caroline. I'll take her man! She smiled to herself all the way home.

Chapter 16

While in her office, Jane received a call from Bingley that morning.

"Hello Jane. How are you this morning?"

"Fine Charles. How are you?"

"I'm fine... Jane, are you feeling up to going out tonight? I would like to take you to dinner."

"I'd like that Charles."

"We won't go too far, just in town for a few hours, okay?"

"Sure, what time?"

"How about I pick you up at 6:30 p.m.?"

"Sounds great, see you then."

"Good-bye."

Charles and Jane hung up their phones and sighed. Charles leaned up against the wall in the foyer while Jane fell back in her chair. Eventually Jane went next door to tell Elizabeth about tonight.

Later, Darcy called Elizabeth.

"Hello, may I speak to Elizabeth please?"

"This is she."

"Oh, hi. This is William, William Darcy."

She smiled mischievously as she thought of a plan. "Oh yes, hi. Are you calling about dinner?"

He smiled. "Yes. Mr. Jones told me of a nice little restaurant in town called 'The Pipe.' Have you heard of it?"

"Yes. Yes I have, but it's pretty expensive..."

"Oh, don't worry about it. How about I pick you up at 7:00 p.m.?"

"Okay..." She paused, trying to think of a way to see him sooner. "William, Jane and Charles are going out tonight. Would you like to come over?"

"Uh, Um... No."

No! How dare he refuse me! "Oh," was all she could muster out loud.

"I'm sorry Elizabeth. I, I have plans." Darcy didn't have plans, but he didn't want to be alone with her in her house either.

"Okay. Well then, I'll see you tomorrow. Bye."

"Bye."

Elizabeth immediately called Charlotte to tell her of her date.

"Well, well! Poor Caroline," said Charlotte as they chuckled.

"Poor Caroline, my foot! I'm not worried about her. I am, however, worried about me... I'm acting like a school girl going out on her first date."

"Well Lizzy, it has been a long time."

"Yes, I must admit it's been a long time. And there's absolutely nobody down here that I would even want to go out with."

Charlotte thought of Wickham, she realized that Elizabeth had not seen him yet and she would take this opportunity to ingratiate herself to him; in hopes that she might secure him. "You'll have to call me Wednesday to tell me everything! Talk to you later."

"Bye." They hung up. I really am acting like a schoolgirl!

That evening Charles and Jane went out to a restaurant called the 'The Cock and Bull.' They had a very good time. They talked animatedly all night and didn't notice the time. Charles dropped Jane off at the cottage and she kissed him on the cheek 'goodnight.'

While Elizabeth was in her office, Jane came over to tell her about the night before.

"Oh, Lizzy! He is so wonderful! We had the best time and... and... I think I'm falling in love with him!"

"Jane, this must be serious. I don't ever think I've heard the words 'love him' come from your mouth, at least not in the same sentence, and definitely not consecutively." Elizabeth laughed and Jane smiled.

"I know. I want to take it slow and be cautious, but every time I see him or he touches my hand, I get all tingly inside. I swear, just thinking about it, I turn red."

"Yes," smiled Elizabeth, "I can see that."

"I wonder what he thinks about me?"

"Oh Jane, from what I've seen... The way he looks at you... He completely adores you! And to think that he was paralyzed when he saw you injured in your car."

"What do you mean?"

"He's a doctor! All doctors are trained for trauma. And he just froze! I think he saw his own life flash before his eyes. Without you, I might add."

"Do you think so?"

"Of course I do!"

"Still, I'll continue to take it slow. He's probably used to those flashy female types in D.C. hounding him and I don't want to be compared to them."

"Jane you've liked many a stupider man. This one I think is worthy of your love."

At this point, Jane was anxious to change the subject. "I understand that William Darcy asked you out for tonight."

"Yes he did, to my surprise."

"Why should you be surprised? I noticed the way he looks at you."

"Really? I hadn't noticed."

"Well I did, even before my accident."

"I must admit that I have noticed him staring at me, but I thought it was because he was trying to find fault with me."

"I don't know why he was staring, but I hardly believe your version." Jane was secretly happy for her sister.

"He only asked me out to find something to laugh at, and he and Caroline will have a good time if he finds I have flaws."

"Speaking of Caroline, from what Charles told me, William knows that Caroline wants him, but he definitely doesn't want her."

"But she is always hanging on to him!" Elizabeth spat.

"He's probably too polite to tell her off." Jane smiled, she had always thought Elizabeth was interested in Darcy, but she couldn't tell for sure. Now realizing that Elizabeth was slightly jealous of Caroline, she tried to think of a way to draw her out. "You know, William wrote me little notes while we were at Netherfield."

"He did what?!" The look on Elizabeth's face was tantamount to shock.

"Oh nothing like you're thinking, Lizzy! He just thought it was improper for him to come to my room, but the notes were to let me know that I was in his prayers and he wished me a speedy recovery. That's all. Wasn't that sweet?"

"I, I guess so... I didn't think... He is very proper and he seems beyond decent." Elizabeth sat back in her chair to think about him and Jane left her to her thoughts. Could I have been so completely wrong about him?

Chapter 17

Later that evening, Jane talked to Bingley on the phone while Elizabeth got dressed for her date. Elizabeth was unsure of what she would wear and unsure of Darcy. She first chose a forest green dress, but it was nothing special, so she tossed it aside. Next she chose a navy blue and white houndstooth coat dress, too business-like, and she tossed that aside as well. Finally, after much deliberation, Elizabeth chose a floor length, deep burgundy velvet dress with a scoop neck, a belt around her waist and a split up the left leg to the knee. If it's cold in the restaurant, then I'll be comfortable, and if not, I won't sweat like a pig either. She was pleased with her choice as she tried to reason away her anticipation and anxiety.

Darcy picked Elizabeth up at exactly 7:00 p.m. Well, actually he got to the Longbourn entrance early and sat there for about 10 minutes, trying to compose himself.

He knocked on the door. "Hi..." stunned by the fact that she already had her coat on and pleased to know that she was eager to start the date. "I guess you're ready then. Shall we?" He held out his arm.

"Yes we shall," she laughed and took his arm. He opened the car door for her, helped her in and closed the door. So mannerly. "I've never been in a Mercedes before." Elizabeth tried to sound calm, although she was excited.

Darcy got into the car and started the engine, as he was backing up, he leaned around the front seat to check the road behind him and caught the scent of her hair. He sighed, it was all he could do to calm himself. He put in his favorite CD, Billie Holiday, and they were silent all the way to the restaurant. Once inside, however, they relaxed. Soaking up the dark tones and richness of the inside, they both knew that the meal would be splendid.

Meanwhile, Wickham happened to be staggering from a bar up the street when he noticed Darcy and a companion. He hid in one of the doorways until they were safely in the restaurant. Hmm. I wonder if that was Elizabeth Bennet.

The waiter asked for their coats and as each removed theirs, the other held their breath.

Oh my! sighed Darcy silently. She is absolutely stunning! Oh, heart be still.

Jiminy Crickets! breathed Elizabeth quietly. That man knows how to wear a suit... Elizabeth, hello, wake up, this is not part of the plan... But it is an enjoyable part!

They were shown to their table and Darcy pulled out Elizabeth's chair before the waiter had the chance to do it. She smiled and he smiled back.

This is going to be really easy! "This is very nice," she said looking around. "A very good choice Mr. Darcy." He gave her a raised eyebrow, but she paid no attention to it.

The waiter asked if they would like some wine. They both agreed to have some, but they couldn't agree on the type; Elizabeth wanted a white and Darcy wanted a red. So Darcy ordered a bottle of Chablis and Cabernet Sauvignon. While the waiter was gone, they both sat silently pondering the menu. When the waiter came back with the wine, they ordered their meals and the waiter left them alone.

There were some awkward moments, but then Elizabeth spoke up. "So Mr. Darcy, tell me about yourself."

"What do you want to know?"

"Any and everything," she smiled.

He told her about his parents, his sister and Pemberley. She talked about her family and the farm. He talked about his education and career path, from lawyer to soon-to-be judge.

"I have a law degree from Georgetown Law School..."

"Yes, I know," he interrupted. "I saw your degree in your office. How come you don't practice?"

"I do... sometimes. But only in family matters. I took up business law, only because I wanted to be able to help with the farm and the business. But I could never imagine myself as a trial lawyer."

"Why not? You would make a good one."

"You don't know me well enough to say that."

"I think I am a good judge, no pun intended. In fact, my firm has a few positions open, you should apply. I can put in a good word for you with the boss."

"Who's the boss?"

"I am," he smiled and she raised an eyebrow. I like it when she does that.

"I still don't think I'd make a good trial lawyer, despite your opinion."

"The way you stared me down and reduced me to nothing at Netherfield! Oh, I am very sure you'd make quite a reputation for yourself and a good living at it to boot."

She almost laughed out loud, but smiled instead. "No... but thanks for the compliment."

While they ate, they talked on about their friends, their life so far, and their dreams for the future. They talked about music, sports, nature, exercise, politics and history.

"Do you like jazz?" asked William.

"I love it. But I only like the old stuff."

"Same here. The new wave is too..."

"Technical?" she wrinkled her nose.

"Yeah, that's it. I especially like the grand divas: Billie, Ella, Sarah, and Dinah."

"I have almost all their albums!"

"So do I! Who's you favorite?"

"I'm not sure... But, I'd pick Sarah for her rich deep tones and the way she makes you tremble when she hits one of those low notes."

Darcy smiled. "Sarah is probably my second choice. I really like Billie though. She sings and suffers in the same song, even if it's an upbeat tune."

"Yeah. I listen to Billie when I'm feeling low."

"I listen to Billie at almost any time of the day, low or high. If I'm excited or nervous, she brings me down; gives me the right perspective. But if I'm low, she tells me that it could be worse." Elizabeth looked at Darcy and wondered if this night would be a high or a low. "I play the saxophone right along with the songs."

"I didn't know you played the sax! Did you bring it with you?"

"No... It wouldn't fit amongst Caroline's make-up." They both laughed.

Every so often, when they reached a subject that both enjoyed, they would both say the same thing at the same time. Then they would both apologize at the same time and start again, at the same time. A few times, they even finished each other's sentences.

"I really enjoyed living in D.C for the 2 years I was at Georgetown. So much history and politics. And I'm a big history buff. I can see why you live there."

"I must admit, D.C. provides me with everything I need. Almost everything, that is... And when I have time, I still go to the museums."

"When I was there I made sure that I saw every museum, house, and government building, in and around D.C. However, I never got to see George Washington's Mt. Vernon House."

"Oh... I'm sorry about that. I had to close it down for a few years."

"You, you had to close it down?!"

"Yes," he said solemnly. "We had a little trouble there, break-ins and such, so I had to close it until the criminals were caught."

"You own Mt. Vernon?!" Elizabeth whispered each word slowly.

"Yes, it's been in my family since it was built." Elizabeth sat gape-mouthed. "George Washington's mother was the sister of my great-great-great... Well, George Washington is a distant relative," he smiled.

"Really?!" she exclaimed. Wow! No wonder he's so proud. Elizabeth pondered for a few moments. "I had no idea," she said aloud.

"If circumstances permit you to come to D.C. or Northern Virginia, I would be happy to give you a personal tour. Just call me," said Darcy. Elizabeth couldn't reply, she just sat there with a look of amazement on her face. And what a pretty face it is!

They took their leave from the restaurant and talked all the way back to Longbourn. All in all, the evening was enjoyed by both. Darcy pulled up to the cottage and they remained in the car talking for a long while until he noticed the time.

"Time surely passes quickly when you're having fun." Pointing to the car's clock that stated 2:15 a.m.

Elizabeth looked and gasped, "Oh my goodness! I didn't think it was that late!" Darcy immediately got out on his side, opened Elizabeth's door and helped her out of the car. "Thank you, William" she smiled. "I had a really good time."

He walked her to the door. "So did I," he smiled. Darcy turned to leave, but turned back before she opened the door. "Elizabeth... would you go out with me again?"

Elizabeth let go of the doorknob, turned to him and said softly, "Yes."

Darcy gave her a wide grin showing his dimples, just as he had done several times that evening. "How about Friday?"

"Same time?" she asked.

"Same time," he replied and nodded. "Would you like to try something new?"

"What do you mean?"

"Let me cook for you... show you my culinary skills?"

"You cook?" again she raised an eyebrow.

"I've been a bachelor all of my adult life. How do you think I've survived all these years?" he laughed.

"I don't know," she laughed. "Maybe you have a maid and a butler or you eat out a lot."

"I have several maids and butlers, but they are at Pemberley and Mt. Vernon. But I refuse to be taken care of like that now. My place is not big enough for servants, although I do have a cleaning service that comes once a week."

"What about Jane? She'll be here."

"If Jane wants to be here, then so be it."

"Should we invite Charles too?"

"Why don't we wait to see if Jane and Charles are going out again."

"I'll ask her in the morning," she giggled. "Good night, William."

Before she turned to open the door, Darcy gently grabbed her arm, pulled her toward him and kissed her softly on the left cheek. They looked at each other for a long time, suddenly shaking herself from his gaze, Elizabeth went quietly into the cottage.

Darcy stood outside the door, frozen for a few more moments, while Elizabeth leaned back against the door in a daze.

Elizabeth knocked over something as she tried to find her way to her room in the dark. She undressed slowly, every once in a while sitting on her bed, touching her cheek and contemplating the past evening. What a man! He smells nice and looks handsome in his suits. He has a beautiful smile, gorgeous eyes, and goodness gracious his kiss was so soft and tender. He is very different from what I thought... What on earth am I gonna do now?! Finally she went to bed and dreamt of Darcy.

Meanwhile, Darcy managed to drive back to Netherfield without killing himself. He smiled and fantasized all the way back, he was sure he had made some progress with her. But what will I do with her when she yields to me? Ah well, it doesn't matter as long as she comes along for the ride.

Just then as he was bounding up the stairs inside Netherfield, Caroline appeared at the top. "Well, it seems someone has found a late night diversion."

Chapter 18

"What?!" muttered a startled Darcy. "Oh hi Caroline," he said as he tried to pass.

She blocked his way. "Where have you been William? I've been looking all over for you."

"Caroline, when did you become my keeper? Please move, so that I can go to bed. I'm pretty tired."

Still blocking his path. "I hope she is worth it."

"Worth what?"

"Worth you wasting your time!" she sneered.

"Wasting my time? I'm not wasting my time." He pushed past her.

"Well I am!" she shouted in whispered tones as she followed him down the hallway. While Darcy was opening the door to his room, she grabbed his arm and spat, "I will not wait on you forever, William Darcy!"

He glared at her and said through gritted teeth. "Caroline, I never asked you to wait on me. It's not going to happen between us. Why don't you just give up?!"

"Because I love you, that's why," she simpered.

"Caroline, you don't love me, you love my money." Darcy said in a calm voice, then he just closed the door on her and locked it. He undressed quickly, jumped in the bed and thought and dreamt and fantasized about Elizabeth. Caroline stomped back to her room and vowed to find out who the little tramp was that went out with Darcy that night.

"Good morning, Lizzy," smiled Jane as she handed Elizabeth a cup of coffee. "Did you sleep well?"

"Good morning, sis." Taking a sip. "I don't know if I slept at all."

"What kept you up? Could it have been your date, perhaps?" Jane smiled and so did Elizabeth.

"I'm not going to go into all the details, but I had a really good time. Better than I thought I would. Much better." Elizabeth smiled as she sipped her coffee.

"I'm glad. You haven't had a good time since... well... in a long time."

"Don't remind me! Anyway, we talked about a lot of things, from childhood to the future, politics, jobs, and history. Did you know he owns George Washington's Mt. Vernon?" Jane looked wide-eyed and shook her head. "I can't believe it either! He said that if I wanted to see it, he would give me a personal tour." Then she half-whispered to herself, "But I don't know how he would have time for that, when he is soon to be appointed a judge." Elizabeth went on to tell Jane more about the date. "Oh, Jane what are you doing Friday night?"

"Charles and I are staying in. Why?"

"William wants to make me dinner."

"Make you dinner?!"

"Yes, he says that if you wanted to, you could join us. Both you and Charles. Maybe we could get both of them in the kitchen." They both laughed.

Later that morning, Elizabeth called Charlotte and told her about her date.

"My goodness Lizzy, he sounds ideal! If you don't want William Darcy, I'll take him!" Caroline was just passing by the hallway and as she passed Charlotte's desk, she stopped behind the wall and listened in on the conversation.

"Be serious Charlotte. He's nice and all, but I think he's up to something. He could be trying to get Caroline off his back or maybe he's just wants a country girl as a conquest to feed his ego."

"I don't think William Darcy is like that at all. He may be cold and aloof, but I think he likes you. Surely you can melt the iceman, Lizzy!"

Caroline gasped in anger. That country bitch! she cursed to herself.

Elizabeth laughed. "Well, I don't know about that, but he's cooking me dinner on Friday."

"What?!" Charlotte almost choked. "Friday, huh? Just you and him? Alone in your cottage? Well, that sounds very interesting!"

Caroline almost screamed, but kept her cool. I must do something about this! That little tramp can't have my William!

"No, and before you jump to any conclusions, Jane and Charles will be there too."

"Jane and Charles?! Now that's a great pity!"

"I'm actually glad they'll be joining us. He's getting to me Charlotte, and I don't think it would be a good idea for us to be alone."

"I hear ya! Well, I'll talk with you tomorrow."

"Bye." They hung up and Caroline stormed away.

Later that day, Darcy called Elizabeth about Friday and she told him the plan. He was a bit apprehensive at first, since Charles didn't know his way around a kitchen.

"Louisa always cooks for him, and if she doesn't cook, then he eats out," said Darcy and they both laughed. "Charles and I will bring the groceries and whatever else we can think of."

They talked on for another half-an-hour on various subjects, until Darcy told her he had scheduled a tee-time at the club.

Meanwhile Caroline sat in the sauna, planning what she would do. He's on his way here, so I can confront him here or wait until we get back to Netherfield. She had completely forgotten about her and Darcy's conversation last night. I think it would be better if I do it when we're alone. William does not like to be embarrassed in front of others.

Darcy and Bingley came to the club, they played a round of golf with Mr. Lewis and Mr. Jones. They didn't see Caroline or Wickham, but Wickham saw Darcy as he walked past the tennis courts.

Caroline never did get the opportunity to speak with Darcy alone that day. Desperate as she was, and seeing Darcy so happy, Caroline made her plans.