Leaps and Bounds

Elizabeth woke up late: frazzled, fried and frustrated. The tape was still playing, she hurriedly jumped up and turned it off. It would do no good to be mesmerized again. She was exhausted, although she finished cleaning her room. By the time she took her shower and ate breakfast, she felt 120% better. Since there was nothing pressing at work, she decided to go horseback riding. This exercise always seemed to bring a particular brightness to her day, let alone to her face.

Jane was already dressed and gone by the time, Elizabeth woke up, so she went riding by herself. After racing at full gallop for more than an hour, she ended at one end of the property and decided to rub the horse down. It was an unseasonably warm day and a little sweat had creased her hairline. As she moved around to the other side of the horse, she noticed someone walking towards her, but with the bright sun in her eyes, she couldn't make them out.

Elizabeth raised one hand to block out the sun to see who was coming, when her heart began to beat so wildly that it might have jumped out through her chest. Immediately, she held herself steady with her other hand on the horse. Darcy was walking toward her with the biggest smile on his face, dimples and everything; she couldn't help but smile with him.

"Elizabeth," said Darcy from about 20 feet away.

She gulped. "Will... What are you doing here?!"

"I came to see Charles and congratulate Jane and him on their engagement." As he was now upon her, she lowered her hand because he blocked out the sun.

"Oh" she said barely above a whisper, then she brightened. "Yes, we're all very happy! How, how are you?"

"I'm fine, thanks. Fit as a fiddle and good as new. How are you?"

"Good." Elizabeth walked around the other side of the horse. "Fine, thank you." There was a long awkward pause. "I was just... getting ready to walk back."

"Can I join you?" He patted the horse and walked around the other side behind her, trying to compose himself.

"Sure," she said as she began to pick up the horse's towel.

"Here, let me." They both reached down at approximately the same time; their faces were so close together that they could have kissed at any moment. Their breathing became ragged and each held the position for longer than the situation required. Elizabeth suddenly stood upright, holding one end of the towel while Darcy held the other. Slowly he raised himself and handed over his end of the towel to her.

Elizabeth quickly turned around, so he couldn't see her blush, she grabbed the horse's reins and started walking; he followed. Again, there was silence between them. Each fixing in their minds on what they wanted to say.

Elizabeth started first; she stopped and turned toward him as now he was on her right side, against the railing. "I know that you wanted it kept secret, but I can't go any longer without thanking you for helping my sister." Darcy stopped in his tracks. "Ever since I've known of it, I've been very anxious to thank you in person."

"I thought we all had an understanding," said Darcy as he walked away from her.

"You shouldn't blame them," Elizabeth ran after him. "Lydia spilled it first. And I couldn't rest until I knew everything... My aunt refused to tell me, but then you had that accident..." Elizabeth choked up and turned away from him. She took a few moments before she was composed enough to continue. "I, I can only imagine what trouble and humiliation you went through for us... Again, please let me thank you on behalf of all my family, since most of them don't know what happened."

"If you insist on thanking me," he replied looking straight ahead, "let it be for yourself alone. I believe I thought only of you." Elizabeth gasped and held her breath. Darcy turned to her and added. "Look... I've spent the past few months wondering if your feelings for me are what they were in April or in July. My feelings are unchanged; but one word from you, will silence me on this subject forever."

Elizabeth, feeling a little light headed from holding her breath, forced herself to speak. "My feelings..." She hung her head and few tears dropped from her face to the ground. "I'm ashamed of what I said to you back in April." Darcy put his arms around her and pulled her close. "I hurt you. I know I did!" she sobbed. "And you still wanted to be with me. I never apologized. I was going to... But Lydia and Wick..." she wept bitterly as Darcy stoked her hair. "And you still wanted to help me... I, I don't know why you did it, but..."

Darcy let all the love he felt for her wash over him as she wept into his chest. "I never stopped loving you, Lizzy." As soon as Darcy said these words, he cursed himself; he had promised himself not to put any pressure on her.

"I love you," she whispered.

"What?!" he whispered as he crouched down and raised her face, so that they were almost nose-to-nose.

"I love you," she whispered as she could feel his breath on her lips.

In the next moment, the air was heavy between them as their lips sought each other's. The kisses, at first, were quick and soft, but then turned long and deep and passionate; arms groping for position, his around her waist, hers around his neck. They were both in such a daze, that Darcy lost his balance, but not her lips, and fell back against the railing. Feeling the heat between them, Elizabeth clung to him with all her strength and as he pulled her closer, her feet left the ground; he was a full seven inches taller, so for leverage she jumped up and wrapped her legs around his waist. They were otherwise occupied for an undetermined amount of time.

Slowly, as each realized that this was going further than it should for their present location, they released their lips and she slid down his body to place her feet on solid ground. The sensation was more than either could withstand and he held her close to let the moment pass.

"Marry me!" he whispered in her hair. "Marry me!"

"Yes," she nuzzled her answer in his chest.

"Tomorrow?"

"What?!" she jerked back. "We, we can't."

"Yes, we can!" he whispered. Eventually, Elizabeth was able to talk him out of an elopement. As they started walking back to the house; Darcy suddenly stopped. "Wait! I forgot to give you this." He pulled out a ring from his front jean pocket; it was a huge marquis diamond with 2 rows of round diamonds running down the sides of the band. Elizabeth gasped loud enough to make even Mrs. Bennet jealous. "It was my mother's," he placed it on her finger as tears welled up in his eyes.

"It fit's perfectly," sobbed Elizabeth as she raised her newly accessorized hand to his face to wipe his tears away. "I love you, William Darcy."

He pulled her close and smiled as he remembered the game he and Georgiana play. "I love you more, Elizabeth Bennet." They kissed passionately, but not as they had earlier; each was anxious to spread the news.

They walked back towards the house, eyes locked and hand-in-hand, until Elizabeth stopped suddenly. "The horse!" They both broke out in laughter and after some moments, turned back to where they were. The horse was grazing right where they left him.

"The horse knew that we forgot to mark this spot as the point of our engagement and so decided to stay here until we realized that we were in error," said Darcy as Elizabeth chuckled.

"He is such a smart horse. Aren't you Prince Valiant?" Elizabeth scratched behind the horse's ear and the horse whinnied in agreement. They both laughed.

Darcy found a sharp edged rock and marked 'E + W' on the railing. "I'll come back and make it a little more permanent tomorrow," he boasted as he wiped his hands on his pants.

They walked back toward the house, laughing and talking and apologizing for their past behavior and holding hands. Bingley and Jane had just come out the house, after eating lunch with the family, and saw Darcy and Elizabeth coming towards them. They smiled at each other when Jane pointed out the rock on Elizabeth's hand, reflecting brilliantly, each time the sun hit it.

"Well?!" said Jane and Bingley simultaneously.

Darcy tried not to smile, but he couldn't hold it in and his dimples shown brighter than any diamond ever could. He pulled Elizabeth's hand in front and once again Longbourn rang out with screams of joy and congratulations. Before long, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet came out front. Mrs. Bennet fainted again, this time into Bingley's arms, Darcy smiled to himself as he preferred Mrs. Bennet just like she was at the present moment, silent; he would have to think of new ways to shock her into fainting more often. Mr. Bennet caught his mirth and slapped him on the back and nodded in agreement.

The news had spread all over Charlottesville before sun down. Darcy called Georgiana and Richard and Richard's family, the Fitzwilliam's, of course they were all very happy. He decided to write to Lady Catherine, as he knew she wouldn't talk to him. Elizabeth called the Gardiners; no surprises there, they were elated. But everyone wanted to know when was the wedding day.

"Lizzy, we need to talk," said Darcy as he pulled her into another room.

"What is it, sweetheart?" purred Elizabeth as Darcy clutched his heart and fell against the door.

"Don't do that!" he exclaimed. Elizabeth was about to ask him why not, but he continued. "Don't tempt me to take you right here, right now!"

"William!"

"Seriously! Do you know how many times I've dreamt of you calling me pet names, like sweetheart, or honey?" Elizabeth shook her head. "Thousands!"

She laughed. "That isn't why you dragged me in here, is it?"

"No. We need to set a date. Everyone wants to know."

"I thought we could take our time and plan the perfect wedding and honeymoon."

"Not if you want to spend your honeymoon at home."

"What?! What are you talking about?"

"On January 5^th, I become a judge in Alexandria. And since I'll be the new kid on the block, I don't know when I'll be able to take a few days off."

"Oh my! Then we need to get married sooner." Elizabeth started pacing the room. "There are so many holidays coming up. It would horrible to try."

"Charles and Jane are thinking about December." He walked over to a wall calendar and flipped the pages to that particular month. "What about the 6^th? We could probably convince Jane and Charles into a double wedding and then we could have a whole month to ourselves."

"We could travel?"

"Wherever you want. But I must ask that we spend our first few days in the immediate vicinity."

"Why?"

"I have my reasons," he grinned.

Elizabeth sauntered up to him. "Tell me," she said huskily.

Darcy shook his head and inhaled deeply. "I just don't want anything getting in our way, like getting to the airport, on or immediately after the wedding night," he winked and smiled.

Elizabeth blushed furiously. "Oh! I hadn't thought about that." Darcy pulled her closer. "We should talk about that too, you know." Darcy raised an eyebrow as he tried to kiss her, but she pulled away. "Come on, we need to let everyone know our plans."

Darcy followed her out of the room, puzzling over the last part of their conversation. They pulled Jane and Bingley aside and talked; they were all in agreement after only a few minutes. Then they told the rest of the family about the double wedding and the date. Mrs. Bennet pulled out her pen and paper to list the people she needed to call tomorrow: the church clerk, the pastor, Mr. Lucas for the club, the florist, the organist, the caterer. That was one thing Mrs. Bennet did well, she could plan a party and this was day she was waiting for; she and Caroline were more like each other than anyone had yet to realize.

During dinner, the whole family talked and planned. A little after dinner, Jane and Bingley walked in one direction while Elizabeth and Darcy walked in another.

"Elizabeth," Darcy began, "when I mentioned the wedding night, you..."

"I know... William, I've never... uh, um... you know," she made facial and hand expressions to him in the moonlight.

When he finally got it, he grabbed her and kissed her. "Oh Lizzy, I don't know what to say!" he whispered.

She buried her face in his chest. "I waited for you."

They stood there, locked in an embrace until Darcy noticed her shivering. "We'd better get back."

They walked back to the house and kissed goodnight. Bingley and Darcy drove off and Jane and Elizabeth walked back to the cottage. Both the men and their ladies stayed up all night talking.

There's so much to do today! Darcy thought as he woke up, after no more than a few minutes sleep. I have to write to Aunt Catherine, call Rick and Georgiana back about the date, finish carving our initials in the post, call a couple of my friends, and call the firm! Darcy showered, shaved, and got dressed. As he did all this, he thought about what he would write to his aunt. Now the time had come, he sat down at the desk and pulled out paper and a pen.

Darcy folded the letter, put it in an envelope and sealed it. He went to ask Bingley for a stamp and ran out to put it in the mailbox. Then he joined Bingley for breakfast, neither one said much of anything, they said it all last night, or rather earlier this morning.

Darcy made a few phone calls and then they were off to Longbourn, as they entered the gate. Darcy said, "Stop here for a minute Charles. I'm getting out."

"Why?"

"I need to finish something," Darcy jumped out of the car. Bingley pulled the car over on the side of the road and followed him. They walked for a mile or so, then Darcy pulled out a little knife.

"What are you doing?!"

"This is where I proposed!" smiled Darcy as he pointed to the post. Bingley laughed when he saw the initials. "I need to carve it in, so that it'll stay visible as long as this railing is here."

Bingley waited while Darcy did the job, they got back in the car and drove off to Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet questioned them repeatedly on how many guests they would invite and that she needed addresses for the invitations. Thankfully, Mr. Bennet came into to save them, he told them that he wrote to Billy Collins and wished that he were a fly on the wall, when he read the letter. Darcy related almost the same delight when he told them about his letter to his aunt. The men talked and laughed for above an hour, but then they rose to visit their ladyloves in their offices.

"Charles, you go on ahead, I'd like to speak to William for a few minutes." Bingley nodded and left. "Come with me, son. I have plenty to talk to you about." Darcy followed Mr. Bennet into his library. Sit down."

Darcy did as he was told. "Mr. Bennet, is this going to take long?"

"I know you're anxious to see Lizzy, but you'll have the rest of your life for that. Surely you can oblige her aging and decrepit father a few minutes?"

Darcy fidgeted in his seat. "I didn't mean it like that, Sir. Not at all!"

"The first thing you have to do, is learn that I do a lot of teasing around here. That has become my primary occupation and I do it proudly!" he smiled and so did Darcy. "Seriously though, I want you to know that you're not marrying a country bumpkin who needs to be taught how to act in public." Darcy was about to interrupt, but Mr. Bennet waved him off. "Lizzy owns this farm, all that's on it and more."

"I thought that Mr. Collins was to inherit this farm after your, um, death."

"That's what my grandfather's will stated, but that's not how it's going to be."

"What are you saying, Mr. Bennet?"

"Well, I'll try to make this brief. When Lizzy was a senior in high school, she decided to do a final history paper on her great grandfather. She let me read it and I thought she did a wonderful job but that she made one glaring mistake. She had written that Reginald Bennet, my grandfather, had purchased 525 acres of farmland and I told her that it was only 125, since that is the total acreage of our land. Well, being a thorough and gifted student, she offered me proof the next day. I, of course, was floored, to say the least. We did a little more digging and found it to be true. What happened, in short, was that he leased the other 400 acres in 50 and 75-acre lots. But there were no records of the original lease holders or maps of the land purchased. Lizzy had, by then, entered the University of Virginia, where she had access to state records. She had gotten the help of a few professors to further investigate. It seems that someone, namely Billy Collins's grandfather or my uncle, paid the city clerk to divert the monies into another account and destroy the local records. William Collins, Billy's grandfather, had always envied my father for inheriting the land. Anyway, lawyers were brought in, I had to sell off some of our horses and equipment to pay for them, and after a few years, everything was cleared up; the money was recovered from Billy's family with penalties and that's where the rift between our families came. Unfortunately, it seemed that all this would all come to nothing, since I had no sons and the land would go to Billy. But Lizzy didn't let that stop her, she went through that will with a fine-toothed comb, and noticed that there was no clause regarding the sale of the properties. Lizzy and I went to a financial planner and invested most of the recovered money in her name, it was a considerable sum, but it grew more and is still growing. And to make a long story even shorter, a few years ago, Lizzy purchased all 525 acres from me. At fair market price, no less! I would've sold it to her for a dollar, but she insisted. Now, my wife and I have a nice little nest egg, each daughter has something to look forward to, and Lizzy has, well, millions. We all do!"

Darcy was speechless. But after a few minutes, he offered, "Mr. Bennet, when we recovered some of Wickham's effects, we discovered a file on Lizzy and her accounts."

"Money grubbing rascal!!! That's why he came down here?!"

"Yes Sir. Charles and I looked at the file, but only for a minute, if that. We felt it was personal and I assumed it was the account for the entire family."

"Oh no! We all have separate accounts. Mrs. Bennet knows absolutely nothing and neither does anyone else in the family. Each daughter will have knowledge and access on their wedding day." Darcy jumped from his seat and Mr. Bennet knew exactly the reason. "Don't worry, Lydia's is restricted to monthly installments based on her life expectancy and that of any of her children. Lizzy worked all that out."

Darcy heaved a heavy sigh and sat down. "That's good."

"Do you know that Lizzy was going to pay those fools out of her own money? You're going to have to watch her, though, she's such a tight wad and watches over the money like a hawk."

Darcy smiled. "Thanks for telling me all of this, Mr. Bennet. I really had no idea... You know, for years I was looking for a woman with her own fortune. I found plenty of them with money, but none of them intrigued me enough to pursue anything further than a few dates. Your daughter, however, money or not, fascinates me. I love her, in fact, I've loved for almost a year."

"No?!" Mr. Bennet laughed. "I know she hated you at one time, and I've never seen Lizzy get so riled up about someone she despised. What's the old line about a thin line between love and hate?" They both laughed.

"Since, we're revealing secrets... I proposed to Elizabeth this past April when she visited Charlotte in Pennsylvania."

"I beg your pardon?!" It was Mr. Bennet's turn to be flabbergasted.

"She refused me, of course, and in no uncertain terms. She told me that I was too proud and conceited, and those things made it evident in her eyes that I would be the last man in the world she would ever marry." Both men laughed again. "I was angry, at first, hurt actually, but I quickly realized that she was right. She showed me the errors of my ways and I've made every attempt to correct them. She also made me realize how precious her love is and I can't imagine my life without her."

Mr. Bennet smiled, patted Darcy on the back and shook his hand. "You'll let Lizzy tell you about the money on her own, won't you?" Darcy nodded and left.

Darcy walked to Elizabeth's office. "Where have you been?! I thought you changed your mind about me!" she teased.

"I was just talking to your father," he smiled as he walked over to her and pulled her close.

"About what?"

"Oh... he was just advising me on the best ways to handle you when you lose your temper."

"What?!?!"

Darcy kissed her deeply and long. "That was lessen number one," he smirked and she hit him with her fist on his chest.

"Will, we need to talk about where we're going to live, and where we're going on our honeymoon, all kinds of things."

Darcy sat at the edge of her desk. "Fire away, my love," he said huskily and Elizabeth's mind went blank for a moment as she let his voice move through her.

They decided to look for a house somewhere between Charlottesville and Alexandria and that Darcy would plan the honeymoon; he wanted it to be his wedding gift to her, so it was going to be a surprise. They even decided how many children they would have; they limited themselves to no more than 10.

The rest of the day, they spent together, except at dinner with the Bennet's and Bingley.

Bingley had an occasional surgery and had to report to the hospital and Darcy had some business to take care of in D.C. and at Pemberley. Jane and Elizabeth normally went with their mate whenever they went to D.C., although the ladies always stayed with the Gardiner's. They had to choose their gowns and trousseaus, and be fitted for them. But for the most part, Bingley and Jane were inseparable and the same could be said for Elizabeth and Darcy.

There were parties to attend where Jane and Bingley and/or Elizabeth and Darcy were the guests of honor. Almost everyone in town rejoiced over their engagements, although some mother's were upset that their daughters weren't chosen.

During their engagement, it had been torturous for Darcy and Elizabeth to be alone together. Within minutes, they would end up in a heated, passionate embrace and nothing but dumb luck would separate them; someone would call or walk in or something would fall or break. Elizabeth would blush bright red and Darcy would turn away with embarrassment. They talked about cooling their heels, but never could keep their promises. It was a thoroughly frustrating experience, over and over again, but it seemed that they were gluttons for punishment; they could never keep their hands off each other.

One day, when they were alone and trying to calm their passions, Darcy asked Elizabeth this question. "Lizzy, am I the first...?"

Elizabeth jumped up. "I told you that you were! Are you questioning my honesty?!"

"No love. Sit down and let me finish." Darcy pulled Elizabeth down and tried to hold her hands, but she jerked them away. "Am I the first to propose to you?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Well... earlier, you're mother mentioned something about a disastrous proposal last year and then Kitty said something about it too, during dinner one night. Your father also said something..."

"No, you aren't the first, but you will be the last," she teased, feeling a lot better.

"Are you saying that Wickham proposed to you?" he spat and stood up and paced the room.

"No!"

"Then who?! Who else was close enough to you to ask you to marry them?!"

"Well, it wasn't a matter of closeness... Billy Collins asked me."

"What?!?! Are you serious?! But he's your cousin?!?!"

"Calm down Will! Come and sit by me, sweetheart." Darcy sat down reluctantly. "Billy Collins felt obligated to ask one of us, so that we might all stay in the house. First he chose Jane, but soon found out that she was dating Charles and then he turned to me."

"That's sick! A cousin?! That's truly disgusting!"

"What about you and Anne?!"

"She's adopted! And I never asked her for anything, let alone ask her to marry me! Does he know what kind of child might've come out of such a marriage?!"

"I don't think Billy knows much of anything."

"When... when did all this happen?"

"He asked me the day after the housewarming party."

"But he'd only been here less than 2 weeks! And he married Charlotte before the end of the year!"

"Yes dear, I know. A few days after I refused him, he asked Charlotte and she accepted."

"You must be joking. I thought she had some sense."

"So did I. And I really came down hard on her, but she was steadfast in her motives."

"What motives were there?"

"She thinks he's going to inherit Longbourn."

"Well, isn't he?" he smiled to himself.

"Nope," she smiled and told Darcy the story as Mr. Bennet had told him earlier, but in more detail.

"You continue to amaze me." He pulled her close and whispered in her ear. "I hope you will continue to do so, Mrs. soon-to-be Darcy." There they were again, kissing and groping and doing some serious heavy petting on the couch at the cottage, until the phone rang.

Mrs. Bennet called to say she had everything planned for the wedding and was now planning on getting Kitty and Mary married off.

Elizabeth and Jane went to Netherfield for the day, to visit their fiancé's, Jane and Bingley decided to keep the house, even though it was so close to Mrs. Bennet. Jane and Bingley were exploring the house, as there might be a need for Jane to redecorate a room or change some furniture. Elizabeth and Darcy were in the living room discussing family.

"Wait here my sweet. I have something to show you and it's up in my room."

"What is it?"

"Be patient, my love," said Darcy as he left from the room. Darcy had received a response from Lady Catherine and he thought Elizabeth would get a kick out of it.

In the next minute or two, a booming voice came through the room. "Where is my brother?!" Elizabeth jumped at the noise. "Charles!" screamed Caroline as she walked through, not even noticing Elizabeth. Caroline was desperate at this point and needed to ingratiate herself back into Bingley's house and possibly set another plan in motion to trap Darcy. She had rented an apartment in a building that she could no longer afford; the rent was exorbitant and the only way she could keep it would be if she stopped shopping and partying; those weren't options for her. "Charles!"

"Good afternoon, Caroline," Elizabeth said softly, startling her.

Caroline swung around before she reached the stairs and cringed. "Eliza Bennet! What are you doing here?" Not waiting for an answer. "Of course," she sneered. "You're here with your sister."

At that moment, Elizabeth realized that no one had informed Caroline of her engagement to Darcy. Elizabeth bit her lip and was getting ready to tell her when Darcy came down the stairs.

"Sweet..." he stopped in his tracks. "Caroline!"

"William! I didn't know you were here! Charles didn't tell me!" She practically ran to take hold of his arm. "Ooh, you look absolutely smashing! It's so wonderful to see you again!" He looked over at Elizabeth and she put her finger to her mouth to shush him.

"Thank you, Caroline," said Darcy as she dragged him into another room. "What are you doing here?"

She whispered. "I'm here to..." But when she noticed that Elizabeth was following them, she said out loud, "I'm here to celebrate Jane and Charles' engagement!" She stopped and turned back to Elizabeth, "Eliza darling, could you run along and find my brother please?"

Before Elizabeth could say anything, Darcy spoke up. "I'll go! I know where they are."

"Then we'll go together," said Caroline, trying to remain in Darcy's company.

"No, no. Sit down right here and rest yourself. They're wandering around outside and I wouldn't want you to catch cold."

"Why, of course, William. You are always so very good to me." She smiled as he left and then turned toward Elizabeth with a superior smirk. As soon as she was sure that Darcy was out of earshot, Caroline began her barrage on Elizabeth, but in a whisper. "Let me make myself perfectly clear, Eliza, I am completely against this marriage and I've come to do whatever I can to break it up! I have no intention of letting the sister of a lowlife trollop marry my brother! The whole bunch of you are nothing but common streetwalkers in disguise! I will triumph and you can't stop me! And now that I have an ally in William, we will succeed!"

Not at all surprised by Caroline's ravings, Elizabeth smiled. "Surely, Caroline, you can't believe that you can actually come between two people so much in love."

"Do you doubt me?!" Caroline sneered as she rose to her feet, her voice getting louder. "I've done it before and I can do it again!"

"Yes I do doubt you. And you won't get William's cooperation."

"I see! You think you have some influence over him. Humph, William might've thought you were attractive at one time, and you're probably sleeping with him now. But, your fake country sweetness and back alley seductions are no match for me! I already have him eating out of my hands, he always comes running back to me, and we will be soon married!" Caroline's voice was now at a high pitch and could be heard in the next room.

"Oh?" Elizabeth smiled as she saw Darcy at the door.

"You don't believe me?!" Caroline sniped. "Well, I'll let you in on a little secret, my dear Eliza, William and I have been secretly engaged for some months now! And he'll do anything I ask him to..." At that moment Darcy cleared his throat.

Caroline spun around and quickly walked over to take Darcy's arm. "W, William, I didn't hear you come back! I was just explaining to Eliza about how wonderful it will be to be sisters!"

He walked her back over to the sofa. "I heard what you said Caroline."

"You, you heard me?" she gulped. All of it!"

"Yes I did." He started to pace the room to form his words carefully, but stopped. "Caroline, Lizzy and I are engaged to be married. We've been so for almost a month now. I don't... I can't understand why you would tell such bold-faced lies. What's going on with you?!"

The only thing Caroline heard was 'Lizzy and I are engaged,' she jumped up from her seat and lunged toward Elizabeth screaming, "I hate you! You conniving little bitch! I hate you!"

Darcy was able to grab her before she attacked Elizabeth. "What are you doing, Caroline?!" He struggled with her, her arms and legs swinging violently. "Caroline!" He spun her around to face him; holding her wrists. "Caroline! Get a grip! Listen..."

Caroline was in such a rage that she sobbed uncontrollably into Darcy's chest. When she finally realized who was holding her, she pushed him away and ran to her brother as he and Jane witnessed the outburst. Bingley was so distraught and torn; he could do nothing but guide Caroline upstairs to her room; while Darcy, Jane and Elizabeth stood stock-still; stunned.

Finally, Jane spoke up. "I should go to her. Charles will need my help. Lizzy, are you all right? Can I get you something? William?"

"No Jane, thank you. You go on. I'll take care of Lizzy." Jane left the room and they both sat down on the couch. "Lizzy, I should take you home," he whispered.

"I'm not going anywhere, Will," she whispered. Elizabeth looked at the confusion on Darcy's face and reached up to stroke it. "I shouldn't have let her go on. I should've told her right then. This is all my fault."

"No Lizzy, this is my fault. I thought I made it clear to her, on several occasions, that it wasn't going to happen between us. I guess I was wrong."

"But I thought... that you and her... were intimate."

"What?!?! Whatever gave you that idea?!"

Elizabeth buried her hands in her face. "I overheard Caroline and Louisa talking about... They were very explicit... Caroline said that night after you cooked for us, that you and her had sex..."

"No Lizzy!" Darcy jumped up from his seat. "That did not happen! Never! No way!"

"Okay! I believe you!"

Darcy sat back down with a thud and sighed. "I can't believe her sometimes," he said shaking his head. "She tried... But I resisted every time." Darcy reached around Elizabeth and held her close. "I'm not that kind of guy..."

"I know."

"But what would make her go off like that?"

"She probably never thought you would actually marry anyone, except her." Elizabeth pulled away from Darcy. "Poor Charles."

"Yeah. I think I should apologize."

"It should be me who apologizes. You've done nothing wrong."

"Oh, I've been more than wrong. Caroline has been calling me for the last 3 months and I refused to talk to her. Charles kicked her out and she might've been desperate."

"And how is that your fault? Jane told me about the tape." Darcy just shook his head and paced the room.

After a few minutes, Bingley came downstairs. Both men began to speak at the same time.

"You first."

"William, I want to apologize," he sighed. "I had no idea of what was going on in Caroline's head. I should've let her stay with me. I would've seen this coming."

"No Charles, this is clearly my fault. I knew what she wanted from me."

"We both did. I don't see how this is your fault. I heard you tell her several times that you had no interest in her. I even told her myself."

"How is she?" asked Elizabeth.

Jane came in the room at that time and said, "She's sleeping now." She looked at both men, then Elizabeth, and sat down. "What happened?! What could have set her off like that?"

"I, I was telling Caroline about our engagement. I didn't see her anger until she tried to get at Lizzy."

Everyone sat silently for a few minutes. "Don't worry. All will be well. All will be forgotten," chimed Bingley. "Jane, Lizzy, we should take you home."

Darcy and Bingley drove Elizabeth and Jane home, kissed them good night and left. After they returned to Netherfield, Bingley and Darcy sat silently in the living room for the rest of the evening.

Jane went to Elizabeth's room. "Lizzy, are you alright?"

"Oh Jane, it was horrible! It was my fault! I just let it get out of hand! What a way to start my life with the man I love!"

"Lizzy, he doesn't blame you. No one does. You've witnessed how she's thrown herself at William and he never paid her any mind. Promise me you won't blame yourself."

"I promise" she lied. Jane kissed Elizabeth and left the room. Elizabeth tossed and turned all night long; her mind flitted between her enemies, Caroline and Lady Catherine, and the love of her life, Darcy. I started this by being so childish to want revenge! I have to apologize.

Mid-morning, Darcy and Bingley arrived at Longbourn. They all decided to take a walk together and were silent at the beginning of it.

As soon as they were out of sight of Longbourn, Bingley said, "Caroline is gone."

"What?" exclaimed both Jane and Elizabeth. "Where?"

"When I came down to breakfast, she wasn't there. I checked her room, she wasn't there either. I thought she might've come here to apologize, but when I asked the staff, they said she caught a cab at dawn."

"What will you do Charles?" asked Jane.

"I thought about going after her, but I decided against it. She'll come to her senses soon enough and if she doesn't... well then..." He stopped and looked at Elizabeth. "Lizzy what happened? You're the only one that can tell me."

Elizabeth stumbled, "She, uh, she... She became angry when William told her that we were engaged."

"I know that much. But you two were together while William came to get us." Bingley reached out for Elizabeth's hand. "I know Caroline doesn't like you, but I need to know what was said between the two of you."

Darcy interrupted, "When I came in Caroline was telling Lizzy that she and I were secretly engaged." Both Bingley and Jane gasped as Elizabeth nodded in agreement. "I told her that it wasn't possible, since Lizzy and I were engaged."

"Well! Now I know her frame of mind! She was caught in a lie and there's nothing like a woman caught in a lie. Especially my sister."

"You shouldn't be too hard on her, Charles," pleaded Elizabeth.

"No, I won't be. She has enough to deal with."

They left it at that and walked on, each couple at their own pace and direction.

Darcy trying to lighten Elizabeth's mood, pulled out Lady Catherine's letter and gave it to her. Elizabeth walked over to the railing and leaned against it. The letter read as follows:

Darcy was smiling, waiting for Elizabeth to laugh out loud or explode with anger, but his heart was smashed when he saw her tears. "Lizzy, what are you crying for?" he said as he embraced her. "I didn't give it to you to upset you. I thought you'd get a kick out of it."

She cried shakily. "Everyone blames me! Caroline! Your Aunt! Everyone thinks I'm not good enough for you!" she pushed away from him. "Maybe they're right!" Elizabeth handed him back the ring and ran off.

Darcy was stunned, but only for a moment, he ran after Elizabeth, caught up to her and brought her into his arms. "Everyone does not blame you. My Aunt and Caroline don't count. They only see what they want to see." He stroked her hair and back and continued to soothe her. "I know what I see. I see a woman that I couldn't bear to live the rest of my life without. I love you with all my being. I love you more than life itself. I would sacrifice everything and put aside everyone to be with you." Then Darcy crouched down to be at eye level with her, and grabbed her face with both hands. "Don't let anyone come between us, Lizzy! The two of us can conquer all! I love you!" Then he kissed away her tears and put the ring back on her finger. "I don't ever want to see you take this off again. Do we have an understanding?"

"Yes."

They embraced for a long time, both whispering 'I love you's' to the other with promises of future happiness. At length, they walked on, his arm around her shoulders, and after awhile Elizabeth's spirit returned.

That night, after Darcy and Bingley left, Jane came to Elizabeth's room. Elizabeth told her about Lady Catherine's letter, how she doubted herself and Darcy. Then the subject turned back to Caroline and Elizabeth told Jane the whole sordid story.

"I know that Caroline can be base and vulgar," Jane frowned. "Thank you for telling me."

"Jane, she'll come around. Don't let this come between you and Charles."

"Oh I won't let her come between us again. She only wants what she thinks is best for her brother. Don't worry, I'll treat her as though I never heard this story or her other plots and schemes."

"Jane, you are too good. Only Charles deserves someone like you."

"Lizzy, you make me out to be some sort of angel."

"Charles thinks you are."

"I'm not an angel. I just believe that no one can interfere with my happiness, unless I let them do it. I will do everything in my power to make myself, my husband, any children we may be blessed with, and my extended family, as happy as I possibly can. Even if that means ignoring snide remarks, overlooking faults, amongst other things. That's all I can do and that's all you can do."

Elizabeth leapt from her bed and hugged her sister, her angel.

Jane and Elizabeth stayed with the Gardiner's for a long weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday), as they had the final fittings for their gowns. At that same time, Bingley and Darcy were also in D.C., Bingley had a lecture at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore while Darcy introduced the new managing partner of his law firm to his employees and they also had the final fittings for their tuxedos.

Friday night, they went to see a play at the Kennedy Center and even went to a nightclub on Saturday night. But the nightclub was a bad idea. Bingley ran into several old girlfriends; Jane was thoroughly insulted by the constant interruptions. Most of the women overlooked Elizabeth when they asked Darcy to dance, even if he and Elizabeth were talking or holding hands, and once when they were dancing; Elizabeth was pissed beyond belief. No, November 15^th was not a good night. Both men were profusely apologizing to their future wives, even through the next day.

That morning, Darcy drove Elizabeth up to D.C. to see the penthouse; they realized that she had not yet seen it. Soon it would be sold, unless Darcy changed his mind again.

"I don't understand why you want to keep it? We are currently trying to find a house and then there's Pemberley. What in the world do you need a penthouse for?" pouted Elizabeth.

"I love the view, Lizzy. You can see the whole city from there."

"Humph, I think you don't want to give it up because you have fond memories of your many conquests there."

"Don't be ridiculous, Lizzy. Just wait, you'll see what I'm talking about."

They reached the Watergate Hotel and Darcy pulled into the underground parking lot. They took the private elevator to the top floor.

Darcy unlocked the door and Elizabeth gasped. "Oh my goodness! It is beautiful."

Darcy smiled, "Let me show you around." They walked through the 3-bedroom penthouse and Elizabeth had to admit, the place was spectacular. Most rooms were very large and had ceiling to floor windows and the view was absolutely remarkable. "Are you afraid of heights?"

"No."

Darcy pulled her out on the balcony off the side of the living and dining rooms. As she held on to the railing, Darcy walked up behind her and wrapped her up in his arms and nuzzled her neck. "What do you think?"

"You win."

Darcy squeezed Elizabeth and smiled. "Thank you."

"I just don't know how we'll be able to come here often. What about our future children? Are you willing to pack up all of their things and drag them up here for a weekend?"

"If we don't come here at least once a month for 3 straight months, then I'll give it up. Okay?"

"You don't have to give it up, Will. I know you love this place."

"I was hoping that you would love it too. We will be spending our wedding night here."

Elizabeth turned around to face him. "And the next night," she smiled slightly and kissed him.

However, things became a little heated between them. After a few minutes of passion, Darcy gathered his self-control and spoke. "Come on, I have another surprise for you," he said as he dragged her to the elevator.

"Where are you taking me, now?"

"To the Mt. Vernon House."

"I've already seen it."

"I know you've been there, but you haven't' really seen it. Plus, I promised you a personal tour, remember?"

Darcy took Elizabeth on her personal tour; he showed her paintings, furniture, and other items not visible to the general public. She thanked him properly with a kiss, but it got a little hot and heavy between them; eventually they ended up in a closet, somewhere on the main floor. They drove back to Charlottesville, thoroughly frustrated.

"If we don't find a house soon, we're either going to have to stay in the penthouse, or you'll stay there while I'm at Longbourn."

"Oh no! I'm not going to spend the early part of my marriage separated from you!"

"We have less than 2 weeks!"

"Alright. Clear your schedule for Monday and Tuesday, I'll call the realtor and set the times." Elizabeth nodded and Darcy called his real estate agent for recommendations and then he called a real estate agent for Central Virginia. "Okay it's all set. We're going to have to get up early because our appointments are at 9:00 a.m. both days."

"Sure." They reached Longbourn, Darcy, always the gentlemen, opened Elizabeth's door for her and helped her out. "Good night, dearest, loveliest Elizabeth." He kissed her at the door to the cottage and left.

Elizabeth was so tired; she went straight to bed.

The first day, Elizabeth and Darcy drove to Fredericksburg to meet up with a realtor. She dragged them around from house-to-house for 7 hours. They found some houses they might consider, but nothing that really stood out. They were both pretty tired by the end of the day and so drove back to Charlottesville. They ate together in town; Darcy drove Elizabeth home and kissed her good night.

Darcy and Elizabeth both slept fitfully and woke up groggy the next morning. They ate breakfast in silence and drove as such to the agency. By noon, they had seen 2 houses that impressed them, both in Fauquier County, Virginia: one in the northern part of the county, the other in the south. During lunch they discussed them and went back to house hunting for 3 more hours, only to find nothing else to please them. They promised to let the agent know as soon as they made a decision.

As they drove home, they discussed the houses at length. It would still take Darcy almost 2 hours to drive to work, as there was no direct route to Alexandria. It would take Elizabeth more than 1 hour to get to Longbourn, for the same reason. They liked really liked the house in the southern region; it provided access to lakes and streams, the house was bigger but the lot was smaller than the one in the north.

Then Elizabeth threw a monkey wrench in the plans. "You know, I really don't have to be at Longbourn every single day."

Darcy threw his arms in the air in exasperation. "Why didn't say that earlier?! I just spent 2 of the longest days of my life looking at houses that may not even be necessary now!"

Elizabeth was shocked; Darcy had never raised his voice to her during their engagement. "Don't you yell at me! I'm only trying to make this easier for you!"

Darcy pulled the car onto the shoulder, then put his head on the steering wheel, and for more than a few minutes there was silence; an eerie silence. Then suddenly, Darcy began to laugh. "I'm sorry sweetheart. Forgive me?" Elizabeth shook her head in wonder. "I was doing all this to make it easier on you." They both laughed. "No more guessing what the other is thinking, okay? We talk about, not around, everything. Okay?!"

Elizabeth nodded. "Why don't we just stay in the penthouse until we come to a decision."

"Agreed." They kissed.

Darcy pulled back on the road and drove on to Longbourn. As he drove, Elizabeth scooted over and laid her head on his shoulder, whispered sweet nothings into his ear and just as quietly fell asleep. Darcy looked down at his fiancée and wondered if all their future arguments would end so quickly. He doubted it, but he also relished the times of forgiving and making up.

Georgiana arrived on Wednesday the 25^th in the late afternoon. She spent the night at Jane and Elizabeth's cottage, in fact, she spent most of her nights at the cottage.

Everyone had Thanksgiving dinner at Netherfield. Georgiana, Kitty and Maria became fast friends; they invited her to the club almost every single day. They went to a few frat parties at UV. Georgiana invited Kitty and Maria to Pemberley for the Christmas Holiday.

One night, Darcy had come over to the cottage, as Jane had gone over to Netherfield and Georgiana was out with Kitty and Maria. After dinner and since they were alone, of course, they were on each other like 2 animals in heat, such as they were with clothes on.

After a long while, a frustrated Darcy removed himself from Elizabeth's person and sat on the couch with his head in his hands. "Lizzy, we can't keep doing this!"

"I know... I know," she said as she straightened her clothing. "We only have a few more days..." she said as Darcy leaned his head on Elizabeth's lap.

Right then Georgiana walked in. Darcy immediately jumped up, kissed Elizabeth and Georgiana and left. Georgiana giggled as she went into the bathroom to change into her pajamas; it seems that Georgiana had walked in on them once before, so this time she peeped in the window before coming in.

A few minutes later, Georgiana came into the kitchen while Elizabeth was cleaning up. "Lizzy, can we talk?"

"Of course, Georgie! What would you like to talk about?" said Elizabeth never turning around. Georgiana said nothing, she was waiting for Elizabeth to finish what she was doing. "Are you alright?"

"Yes, I was waiting for you to finish."

"Oh, this must be serious," she teased. Elizabeth turned around from the sink and saw the confusion in Georgiana's face. "Come on and sit down. Would you like something to eat or drink?"

"No, just talk."

"I'm all ears."

"Lizzy, I've been here for almost a week and we've never had a chance to get to know each other. I mean really know each other."

"I, I didn't mean to neglect you, Georgie. I just thought you might want to be around people your own age."

"Lizzy, you're barely 4 years older than I am." Elizabeth sat down at the table next to Georgiana. "Lizzy, I've heard so many things about you. I just wanted us to sit down and have a real heart-to-heart."

"Why don't you tell me what you've heard. It's apparent that some of the info you received doesn't sit well with you."

Georgiana sat for a long time trying to formulate her words. "I've talked with your family, some of your friends and my family. And some of their opinions are not, well... good."

"Some people think I'm marrying your brother for his money, am I right?"

Georgiana nodded. "But Richard doesn't and he's very fond of you. And Charles and Mrs. Reynolds."

"Georgie... I love Will and he loves me. Yes, we've put each other through some terrible trials," she tried to laugh. "At first, I disliked him, then I liked him, then I hated him, then... and now, I love him. And based on whomever you've talked to, this sounds very much like a scheme. But rest assured, I've never felt anything for any other human being even close to what I feel for your brother. I know he's told you some of what happened between us and I won't go into any details until we are both together with you, but..."

"He told me about the proposal in April. He went through hell thinking about you! What about you?"

"At that point, I hated him. I didn't see it coming. But later, I realized that I judged him terribly and prematurely. And those subsequent months I went through the same torment that he did."

"How can two people put themselves through what you and William have and still love each other?"

"Love is something that can't be explained. Your brother held on because he loved me, despite the fact that I refused him, despite the fact that I hated him, and despite the fact that your aunt disapproves. I only realized it later and, at one point, I thought it might've been too late." Elizabeth paused. "I... almost... lost him," she sniffed as her eyes welled up with tears. "I can't even imagine my life without him..."

"I know just how you felt," said a tearful Georgiana as she reached for Elizabeth's hands. "Believe me, I know."

Elizabeth smiled through her tears. "When you hear our tales of miscommunications, misinformation and other woes, you'll realize how we feel about each other. We simply love each other."

"But it's all so confusing."

"Georgie, when you fall in love, and you will. It'll be all that you think about. It's all consuming! And I don't mean sex! There are so many other levels that you and your partner can reach with each other. All you have to do is look around you. You're surrounded by people who love you and love each other. Your brother loves you! I love you!" Elizabeth threw her arms in the air in exasperation. "I, I'm not doing a very good job of this, am I? Don't answer that!"

Georgiana laughed and kissed Elizabeth on the cheek. "You did just fine," she said as she held her hands. "I worried that William would never find true happiness with the type of woman he was previously searching for. But I now realize that he was looking for you, all the time, he just didn't know it and neither did you." Georgiana yawned. "Good night, Lizzy," and left the kitchen.

Elizabeth sat at the kitchen table for a long time thinking about the exchange just passed. Whew! That was hard work! What am I going to do when I'm a mother?!

Louisa and Jimmy flew down in the morning and Richard drove up that afternoon. They all stayed at Netherfield.

Mrs. Reynolds flew into D.C. and the Gardiner's picked her up from the airport on their way to Charlottesville; they stayed at a hotel near UV and close to Longbourn.

Jimmy, as usual, preferred to sit in front of the TV, while Louisa went to Longbourn to see if Jane and Elizabeth needed her help. Richard and Bingley played a little indoor tennis at the club while Darcy visited with Mrs. Reynolds and the Gardiner's at the hotel. That's when Darcy found out the relationship between Mrs. Reynolds and Mrs. Gardiner; it seems that before Mrs. Reynolds became the housekeeper to Darcy, she was the housekeeper for Mrs. Gardiner's parents before they moved to Pennsylvania. Darcy was in complete shock, but he was never told that they set up the Pemberley encounter between Elizabeth and himself, and they never would.

That afternoon was the rehearsal at the church and an early dinner at the club. Everyone was very nervous at first, but Reverend Goulding told a little joke, and they all relaxed. Mrs. Reynolds and Mary stood in for Elizabeth and Jane while Mr. Gardiner and Dr. Knightley stood in for Darcy and Bingley. Emma Knightley, the coordinator, stepped in for Mr. Bennet and she walked the 2 women down the aisle.

That evening was to be the bachelor and bachelorette parties. Mr. Bennet planned something special for the boys last night out, while Kitty planned a few surprises for the girls.

All the ladies, except Mrs. Bennet, gathered at the cottage. Kitty had invited all of Elizabeth and Jane's high school and college friends. Most were staying over for the wedding at several hotels in town. By 9:00 p.m. the party was in full swing; the music was loud, and the gifts were scandalous, the drinks were flowing and everyone was having a really good time.

Suddenly a knock came to the door, Elizabeth and Jane feared it was a stripper and refused to open the door. Kitty protested and opened it with a jump; it was Caroline. Jane and Elizabeth approached her with smiles and pulled Caroline in; they were determined not to let her put a downer on the party. Louisa threw Caroline a few concerned looks, but Caroline ignored them and presented both Jane and Elizabeth with shower gifts. Everyone anticipated and imagined what they might be. But they were completely surprised by the matching pure white chiffon negligees. Everyone exclaimed how beautiful the gifts were and Louisa heaved a sigh of relief. The party went on as it had.

More guests started pouring in and Jane and Elizabeth did not notice that there were now 10 men in the house. At the stroke of midnight, 'It's Raining Men' was played and the men started their strip tease. Squeals and screams went up and out from all over. Jane and Elizabeth were, well, amazed, shocked, and surprised. Obviously, Kitty broke the bank and hired all these men to dance. Kitty pulled Elizabeth and Jane, with a little help from some friends, into the middle of the floor and the men danced around them. Elizabeth blushed furiously while Jane threw caution to the wind and danced, swirled and had a ball. Elizabeth tried to leave the circle, but Jane wouldn't let her. Convinced, as she now was that she had no escape, Elizabeth finally let go of her own inhibitions and joined Jane and the men, swiveling hips and reveling in the fun. Paper money was flying all around the room as the fine-looking, well-built men danced around it. Everyone was having a grand time, Mrs. Reynolds, Mrs. Gardiner, and even Caroline; she was always up for a party.

Meanwhile, Mr. Bennet took the guys out to a little bar in town. They went straight to a back room and the bachelor party began. Rick and Jimmy had taken care of inviting all of Bingley and Darcy's buddies and colleagues. There was an open bar and food galore, the music was loud and the gifts were also very scandalous; some handcuffs, chains, edible underwear, and a few whips and chains. Some of the men made toasts, or rather roasts, to Bingley and Darcy; the jokes were very naughty and pictures of naked women were handed around. The party was jumping and getting rather bawdy.

Darcy and Bingley were thoroughly enjoying themselves when suddenly a back door opened and a large cake was wheeled in. Darcy and Bingley knew what was coming next, so they approached the cake. Mr. Bennet made a toast and popped the lid to the cake. Darcy and Bingley were very surprised and disappointed when only a rubber woman popped out; everyone had a good laugh.

As Darcy and Bingley were taking their seats of honor at the long table on stage, 7 bikini-clad women jumped from under the table and grabbed them, smothered them with kisses and such. Everyone cheered, whooped and hollered, as the women danced around Darcy and Bingley. Here also, paper money was flying, the women were beautiful and young, even Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner joined in the frolicking as the women paraded around the room.

Both parties ended way too early or late on Saturday morning. Thankfully, the wedding wasn't to take place until 3:00 p.m. Everyone had coffee and breakfast to sober up, before they drove home. The men: Darcy, Bingley, Richard, Jimmy, Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner, dragged themselves back to Netherfield and fell asleep wherever they happen to fall or sit. The women: Jane, Elizabeth, Georgiana, Louisa and Caroline, cleaned up as much as they could and fell asleep wherever there heads or bodies found a comfortable place to lay or sit.

Everyone jumped up with a start as they heard Mrs. Bennet standing in the middle of the living room, screaming and hollering at the top of her lungs. "It's almost noon and you're all still sleeping! Oh my God! How am I supposed get you both ready for your wedding day?! Jane! Lizzy! Where are you?!" Jane and Elizabeth stumbled toward the noise, blinking at the day and wincing at the pains in their heads as the shrieks grew louder and louder.

"Mom!" Jane tried to whisper. "Stop screaming!"

"I knew I should've stopped your party! I just knew it!" Jane dragged Mrs. Bennet into the kitchen. "I haven't heard from your father either!" Elizabeth started making coffee as their guests took their turns in the bathrooms. "I should've known he was up to something and he hasn't come home yet!" she sobbed. "He might be laying dead in the gutter somewhere!"

"Mom," interrupted Elizabeth. "They're probably at Netherfield sleeping off the party as we were."

"We have less than 3 hours to make you beautiful, Lizzy. I don't worry over Jane as much as she is always very beautiful, even without make-up. Well, we'll have to do something about those puffy red eyes. But you, it's going to take me a long time to fix you up!"

Elizabeth tried to control her temper. "Mother..."

Jane interrupted. "Mom, remember you asked auntie to help us? You said you wouldn't have time. You have to make sure the flowers are at the church and Monticello and that the decorations and things are in order. Remember?"

"Oh my goodness! I almost forgot! I have to go now, but I'll send Miriam right over! Bye!"

Elizabeth embraced Jane. "Thank you," and kissed her on the cheek.

Jane giggled. "Well, I'm going to have to get used to doing that all by myself from now on. You're leaving me, remember?"

Elizabeth laughed and held her head in pain. They had been playing that game on Mrs. Bennet since they were 6 and 8 years old. When one of them was flustered or frustrated by their mother, the other would jump in and distract her. Georgiana, Caroline and Louisa came into the kitchen and drank coffee and ate danishes.

After a little prodding from Louisa, Caroline began. "Jane, Elizabeth, I'm really very sorry for my behavior this past year. I can't explain it, so I won't try. Just please know that I am truly sorry," Caroline hung her head.

Jane embraced her and with a little trepidation, so did Elizabeth. A few minutes later, Mrs. Gardiner came in and the guests left.

While Jane and Elizabeth took their baths, Mrs. Gardiner cleaned up and made them lunch. They sat and talked for a bit and then she helped them get ready.

The phone rang constantly, but the men never even stirred. Then when Caroline, Georgiana and Louisa arrived, they started waking them up. Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner ran, or rather walked briskly, to the car and headed for Longbourn. Richard, Bingley and Darcy headed for the coffee. The ladies decided to take advantage of the moment and headed for the bathrooms.

After about an hour the men headed upstairs, belly's full of food and coffee, to get ready. Bingley took a few minutes to talk to Caroline, she also apologized to him and all was well between brother and sister.

In one of the upper rooms, Mrs. Bennet fussed and fidgeted while Jane, Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner pinched, pulled and primped. In the pastor's chambers, Darcy paced and Bingley stared out the window. It was five minutes before 3:00 p.m. All of the guests had arrived, were seated and eagerly awaited the double wedding ceremony.

At 3:00 p.m. exactly, Reverend Goulding, Darcy and Bingley walked into the church. A little light music began to play. Mr. Gardiner escorted Mrs. Bennet to front of the church, then Jimmy escorted both Caroline and Louisa to stand next to Mrs. Bennet, and then Richard escorted Georgiana to stand on the other side of Mrs. Bennet. The Reverend offered a little prayer; Richard struck a match to light the candles that Mrs. Bennet and Louisa were holding. Georgiana took hold of Mrs. Bennet's hand and Caroline did the same with Louisa. Together they lit the end candles of the candelabra and blew out theirs and placed them on the table from whence they retrieved them. They quietly took their seats and then the lights of the church were dimmed.

Kitty began to sing as the music swelled and the doors in the back of the church opened wide. Darcy took his place on the other side. Richard and Jimmy pulled the rope to the white carpet down the aisle, starting just past Darcy and Bingley, to the foyer, and took their seats, while the Reverend climbed the 2 stairs to his podium. Amelia and Danielle Gardiner then came down the aisle and gently threw flower petals along the carpet. At that moment, both Bingley and Darcy's eyes welled up with tears. Then Matthew and Andrew Gardiner walked down the aisle as the ring bearers. The doors closed behind them and Kitty finished her song.

Then the traditional wedding marched started at full blast and Darcy and Bingley standing at attention turned toward the doors as they swung open again. Everyone stood up and smiled and/or cried as Mr. Bennet escorted his two oldest daughters down the aisle; Jane on his right and Elizabeth on his left. Mr. Bennet walking proud and tall was a little teary eyed himself and as he passed Darcy and Bingley, they could tell that their intended's had been crying too.

"Who gives these women to be married?" asked Reverend Goulding.

"I do!" proudly exclaimed Mr. Bennet. Then Bingley moved forward and took Jane's trembling hands and as Mr. Bennet stepped back to take his seat, and Darcy moved to take Elizabeth's hands in his. Each man slightly turned toward his lady, yet still almost facing forward. Reverend Goulding began the service.

The service ended the Darcy's and Bingley's kissed, the Reverend pronounced them husbands and wives, and then they walked out of the church. Outside, they hugged and kissed and laughed and talked to everyone in the receiving line, then went back into the church for pictures while their guests went to Monticello for the reception.

Each couple had their own limousine, and in each was a chilled bottle of champagne waiting to be popped and 2 glasses. In the Bingley's limo, they kissed, held hands and drank champagne. In the Darcy's limo, the champagne went untouched; they were thirsty, but not for old grapes.

A little while later, the wedding party arrived, dinner was served, each groom toasted their bride, and they danced the first dance. Then Bingley danced with both his sisters, Darcy danced with Georgiana and Mrs. Reynolds and both Jane and Elizabeth danced with their father. The joy and merriment was in full swing by 7:00 p.m., the newlywed couples went around the tables to greet each guest and by 8:30 p.m., they planned to leave.

Everyone gathered at the door and pelted them with the traditional rice as they ran back to their limousines.

Bingley and Jane headed for Charles' home in D.C. for the night, only to head off to an island paradise the next afternoon.

Darcy and Elizabeth headed for the penthouse. "Are you going to tell me where we're going?"

"To the penthouse, where did you think?"

"Don't toy with me William!"

"I'd like to do more than toy with you, Lizzy," said Darcy huskily as he nuzzled her ear.

Elizabeth squealed with delight. "Stop it!" she giggled and hit him on the arm. "The honeymoon!"

"I'm not telling you," he sang in her ear. Elizabeth said nothing the rest of the way to D.C.; she just enjoyed Darcy's... attentions.

The limo pulled up to the Watergate, Darcy hurriedly pressed some numbers on the keypad, and they headed straight for the private elevator and ascended to the top floor. In a fit of overwhelming passion, Darcy unlocked the penthouse door, went inside and started taking off his tie and cummerbund. In the same moment that the door slammed behind him, Darcy realized that he left his bride outside.

He walked calmly to the door, but before opening it up, he pinched his lips so as not to laugh. He opened the door, to find Elizabeth leaning against the elevator doors with the oddest look on her face. "I, I'm sorry, baby," he apologized as he approached her. "Please forgive me?"

"Oh, I'll forgive, but I'll never forget. And you, my love, will pay dearly." Elizabeth giggled as Darcy swept her up in his arms and carried her across the threshold and into their bedroom.

As he placed her on the bed, he leaned over and whispered in her ear. "I hope you're... sleepy."

"Oh, yes!" she yawned. "I think I'll just put my jammies on and go right to sleep." Elizabeth jumped off the bed, walked past him, opened up one of the drawers on the bureau and pulled out her flannel pajamas.

For a moment, Darcy was shocked, thinking this was his payback for leaving her at the door, but when he saw the smirk on her face. He immediately crossed the room, pulled her close, started unzipping her gown and whispered in her ear. "Allow me." Elizabeth trembled at thought of what lay ahead. "I love you," he whispered. Her mind wandered and she could not speak or move as he pulled the gown from around her shoulders, off her arms, from her waist to the floor. "I love your mind," he kissed her forehead. "I love your beautiful," he kissed one eyelid, "expressive eyes," he kissed the other. "Your nose," he kissed it. "Your mouth. Lord have mercy on me!" he grazed her lips with his. "Your neck, umm," he peppered her neck and shoulders with kisses. "And I will love to love every other inch of you..." He slowly undressed her and she blindly undressed him.

After 1 day and 2 nights of moaning and groaning, groping and grappling, pulling and pushing, exclamations of ecstasy and exaltations to the Higher Power, earth shattering, teeth clattering, world shaking, pulse quickening, tear jerking, heavy breathing, headboard banging, unbridled, surprisingly uninhibited, mad, passionate lovemaking; Darcy and Elizabeth flew off to the Greek Isles. Darcy had chartered a boat, with room for 10 crew and one large stateroom. After 4 days in Greece, they sailed onto Italy, 5 days later to Portugal and Spain, a week later to France, and finally 4 days later to England, where they visited the original Pemberley. Although they visited several countries, there were just some sights they didn't get to see, as they were otherwise occupied.

The Honorable Judge Darcy sat on the bench in the Alexandria Criminal Courts. The Darcy's found a nice piece of land (20 acres) in Loudoun County, Virginia to build their own house. The planning arguments that ensued, rivaled the fight after the 2^nd Tyson-Holyfield fight, but the making up was unequaled by comparison. Elizabeth moved her operations to the penthouse, when she found out that she was pregnant. The Darcy's first child born just 2 months after their first anniversary and was named William George Darcy, II, and almost immediately after the child was born, Darcy had a baseball/soccer field and basketball court built on their property.

Jane and Bingley lived a nice quiet life; they dined with the Darcy's at least once a week, except when they were at Netherfield. Jane, it seems became pregnant less than a month after the wedding day; they named their first child Elyssa Marie Bingley.

Elizabeth took over Caroline's accounts and set her on the path to saving money by restricting her excessive spending. Jane found a nice apartment for Caroline and Elizabeth made sure that her credit cards were paid on time and had their limits lowered.

Louisa and Jimmy were entrenched in politics and scandal in Massachusetts; Jimmy had become a large contributor to a disreputable candidate for governor.

After only a few months of marriage, Lydia and Wickham hated each other; they tried swapping and had many partners, but nothing satisfied them. They let the farm run down to ruin, and lived off her monthly stipend.

Caroline met the owner of her apartment building, fell madly in love and got married within a month to Robert Elton (yes, the slimy character in Chapter 1). He was very upset to find out that Jane was his sister-in-law. Caroline immediately quit her job at the Post to become the 'hostess with the mostest'; they have no plans for children. Thank Heaven!

Louisa and Jimmy returned to Roxbury, after the scandal died down, and resigned themselves to quiet living, and even adopted 2 children from Russia.

Jane and Bingley had 2 more children, boys, to be exact, and moved to Potomac, Maryland, a very posh neighborhood with plenty of neighboring farmland. Jane resumed her veterinary work.

Kitty married one of the strippers from the bachelorette party. At that time, he was working on his Master's Degree in Physical Therapy at the University of Virginia and needed the extra money. They moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico to open a health spa. Later they had 2 sets of twins, boys then girls.

While studying aquatic life in the Great Barrier Reef, Georgiana met a rich young man named Jeremy from Switzerland, who loved deep sea diving for buried treasure. She immediately found him fascinating, but Jeremy left on a junket to the Ivory Coast 3 weeks after they met. They corresponded by letters and phone calls for 2 years before secretly marrying. Darcy, of course, was furious when he found out, but with much prodding from Elizabeth, eventually gave in and accepted the marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Northram moved to Australia and had 3 children.

The Darcy's second child was born a little more than 25 months after their first and was named Amanda Jane Darcy. The Darcy's threw plenty of parties and entertained their guests with music and song. The Darcy's also entertained each other with music and song and some other things unmentionable.

Mr. and Mrs. Bennet lived quiet lives; she found her enjoyment and fulfillment at the club and he found respite at the cottage, once all his daughters went away. More often than not, since Pemberley had no residents occupying it, Mr. Bennet would drive down and thoroughly engross himself in the library and its contents.

Richard became a General and the poster boy for the U.S. Army. That being said, he came in contact with a lot of models and actresses. His liaisons were of legend and finally, at the age of 50, he married Cindy Crawford; it was his first and her fourth. They lived happily ever after.

Mary married a theology professor from UV and they had 8 children. They purchased some land in Wyoming with her dowry money and opened up a prayer colony. They had lived on the land as our ancestors had done in the days of Christ and had many followers.

Lydia and Wickham divorced. Lydia moved to Miami to enjoy the single's scene and never remarried, but had 5 children all by different men. But, by age 30, Lydia was to remain alone and untouched for the rest of her life; apparently, no single man wanted a loose and haggard woman with all those children to support. Wickham got into a bit of trouble with an extremist group in Iowa; he had been stealing shipments of their weapons and selling them on the black market. The extremists, in turn, exacted their own justice on him, something like an arm for an arm.

Billy and Charlotte Collins never had any children, something about his sperm count and not doing it right. Later, Charlotte and Anne became lovers and lived happily ever after, well that is, after Lady Catherine had a heart attack when she found out about the lovers and soon afterwards died. Billy did not outlive Mr. Bennet; he died as Lady Catherine did.

The Darcy's tried their best to obtain their lofty goal of 10 children, unfortunately they only had 6: William George, Amanda Jane, Bennet Ross, Samuel Edward, Sarah Rose, and Charles Henry, but their love and passion never faded.