Elizabeth sat crying at the desk until Georgiana was called to help her from her seat.
"Come on Liz...."
"He won't talk to me!" she cried in her arms. "He won't talk to me!" Then she fainted.
Georgiana called out for help and the other guards carried Elizabeth to the prison hospital ward. The doctor-on-duty examined her, gave her a small dose of sedative, and had some nurses wheel her out to the car. Georgiana called Bingley for help and they carried Elizabeth up to the bedroom.
The next few days
Elizabeth lay in bed, restrained by the wrists for her sometimes-sudden outbursts or nightmares, but mostly she remained quiet with tears rolling down her face. Jane, Mrs. Bennet, and Georgiana watched vigilantly; sometimes relieved by Bingley or Mr. Bennet. Eventually, they all felt it wise to take the restraints from Elizabeth. Elizabeth would not give them a reason to keep her in shackles again, so she did what came naturally, she wrote.
The newspapers across the country all had their spin on the situation. They got quotes from friends outside the close circle and from acquaintances, associates or teammates. Darcy's life was on the front page and the headlines screamed his eminent demise.
Police had been in and out of the house, gathering evidence still, making reports and summations.
Sunday, June 8th
Georgiana had spent the morning with family and now she was at the jail visiting Darcy.
"You have to tell them." Darcy said nothing. "Please Will? You have to tell them what happened."
"I'm not telling anybody, anything," he glowered.
"How are they going to defend you, if you don't tell them what happened?"
"I don't want to be defended. He's dead and I should burn in hell with him," he said matter-of-factly.
Georgiana stifled her sobs. "I don't believe you're giving up!"
"Believe whatever you want."
"Will... Lizzy's beside herself, why won't you..."
"Shut up!!! Shut up!!!" he yelled as he furiously pounded the Plexiglas. "I don't wanna hear anything else! Guard! Guard!"
Georgiana sat in shock, her brother had never acted this way towards her. But every time she brought up Elizabeth's name, he went crazy. I'll have to ask her about it, when she's stronger.
Monday, June 9th
Georgiana spent the morning with the lawyers; there she laid out all the facts, as she knew them.
Later, Georgiana went to Elizabeth's room.
"How are you today, Lizzy?" Elizabeth tried to speak, but there was a big lump in her throat and she couldn't; so she just nodded her head. Georgiana sat on the bed and held one of Elizabeth's hands. "I went to see Will yesterday."
Elizabeth swallowed hard. "How, how is he?"
"Not good. He still won't talk to anyone except me, but he won't tell me anything."
"He's still mad?"
"Yes... Did anything happen the day he left Japan?"
"No. Nothing at all! We were happy," she shrugged. "I don't know what happened."
"Neither do I."
Both sat silently for a few minutes; Georgiana wanted to ask and Elizabeth wanted to tell, but neither could find the appropriate way to bring up the subject that rested most on their minds.
"Well, I'll let you rest some more."
Elizabeth nodded. "When are you going to see him again?"
"Tomorrow."
"Could you take something to him for me?"
"Okay."
Tuesday, June 10th
"Sorry Miss. Mr. Darcy is accepting no visitors today."
Georgiana blinked. "Okay... Can you give him something for me?"
"Sure." Georgiana reached in her purse and handed the guard an envelope that just had 'William Darcy' on the front. "I'll make sure he gets it."
"Thank you." Then she left.
Instead of going home, Georgiana went to a nice, quiet restaurant to think, but unbeknownst to her, some reporters were hard on her heels watching her every movement. The pounced on her in the restaurant, barraging her with questions, theories, etc. Thankfully, the management of the restaurant stepped in and shielded her until she got into her car and drove off. She was still shaking when she reached the house.
Meanwhile, the guard found Darcy in his cell. "Your sister gave me this letter," he said as he handed it to him.
"Thank you," replied Darcy.
He looked at the envelope, then he opened it and found another envelope, and then he saw the letter.
My dearest Will,
After you refused to talk to me, I realized that this mess involves me.
If you don't already know, I'm going to tell you of my long acquaintance, or should I say my suffering circumstances, with George Wickham. Don't be too alarmed by what you read in this letter, it is the truth and nothing but. I know what you will read will offend you, but it needs to be said.
I entered U of M in August 1986 (I was a bleached-blonde then, you probably don't even remember meeting me), where I met George Wickham at a Freshman Party. He was pleasant enough, but I resisted him, initially. He pursued me every day for three weeks straight, and convinced me to go out with him. We went out secretly, his reasoning being that there were going to be jealous girls and he wouldn't subject me to such. I believed him.
We usually met late at night, still incognito, and eventually I persuaded myself that I was in love with him. I eventually gave into him and we made love, had sex, in the most undignified and unseemly places. I didn't seem to mind, because as I said, I thought myself in love and loved in return.
Darcy threw down the letter, stomped on it. "I hate you!" he yelled repeatedly. But after a few hours, his curiosity got the better of him and he straightened out the letter and continued where he left off.
What you read next, I have only divulged to one other person on this earth, and the only way to free myself from these invisible shackles is to get it out, albeit way too late. I should have told you this earlier in our relationship, but I was afraid.
In the middle of November, I found myself to be pregnant. In a panic, I called his dorm room and left messages for him, but he never returned them. One day in December, he found me, he dragged me into a stairwell and we argued something fierce. I advised him of my condition, he told me to get rid of it. I said that I wouldn't and threatened a paternity suit. He told me that he would ruin me on campus and that he would never pay, but that I would. That is when he pushed me down the steps. I don't remember much after that, only that I woke up in the hospital with a policewoman standing over me. Apparently, I screamed out that I had been pushed and it was reported to the authorities.
Darcy stared blankly at the letter; he had known Wickham all his life, he believed him capable of almost anything, but not cold-blooded murder.
Obviously there is no child, as I lost the baby at the hospital. I refused to press charges, fearing a return to the hospital or the morgue. Charlotte called Jane and she rushed to campus to care for me. Even though, Charlotte helped pay for Jane's airfare, I did not divulge my secret to her, only to Jane. I mended physically much faster than I healed mentally. Although I had seen a psychologist twice a week for 2 months and was proclaimed well, I was not above a little revenge.
On occasion, I would happen upon him, or rather, he upon me. At first, his threats were disguised, but since I wouldn't cower to his whims, he decided to push the envelope. Literally. He began slipping threatening notes under my door in the middle of the night. Again, I was afraid, but determined. Unbeknownst to him, I followed him and found his 'habits' despicable. I won't go into details, but I managed to get him kicked off the football team, which gave me an indescribable amount of joy. But the best was yet to come, of which I had nothing to do with. Since he lost his scholarship and obviously couldn't tell his parents what happened, he could no longer afford school. I had only to see him three more times that semester, I kept my cool, but inside I was smiling.
Darcy thought. That's my girl!
Since, he was no longer a menace to me, or so I thought, I relaxed a bit. Just a bit. I had no desire to be vulnerable again; therefore I let no one into my life. I was determined to graduate early and get on with my life, if I could. But then you came and slowly but surely, you started breaking down those walls and fences that I had held onto for more than two years. I had always admired your athletic abilities, but getting to know you proved disarming. The closer you got to me, the more vulnerable I became. During our first kiss, etc. in L.A., you said something to me that he used to say and I freaked out and pushed you away. And that next morning I was told that not only were the Wickham's visiting your family, but that you and he were very close; sharing everything; secrets, schemes and even girlfriends. I was in a terrible state. When I got back to campus, I was finally able to settle myself down and toss aside all thoughts of your supposed sex games. But right before you came back, I was on the verge of disclosing everything to you, when I started getting obscene phone calls from him. That's why I had the knife. I was afraid of him. But you have this way about you, that affects me greatly; so soothing and secure. You were willing to remain friends, just for me. And I was sure, from that moment on, that you would never hurt me.
Darcy exhaled. I loved you!
After graduation, if you remember, I was ready to run into your waiting arms and marry you, but that's when Caroline told me that she knew the whole story; I was fearful and told you to wait. But later, you pushed me away from you. I thought you found out the truth. Again, after so many lonely months, I was ready to tell you the truth, when you told me you no longer loved me. That's when I assumed you knew.
After he failed to make the Cowboys' for the second year in a row, he paid me a visit. He wanted me out of the way, permanently. He told me I was interfering with your progress, but he did say that you had no clue about us. I was hopeful, but still scared when you came to New York. During that lunch, you confused me. You said all the things I wanted to hear, but you said them in such a rushed, unfeeling way. You sounded as if you really didn't care about me or love me. It was as if you wanted something or someone to control outside of football, and so I left for Tokyo. I didn't want you to hurt me anymore. I loved you, but I was not willing to be your trophy.
Darcy sighed. I failed you!
The rest is all a blur. I watched your progress from afar; from your family I heard about all the wonderful things that you've done, without me. I knew how much I missed you, but I didn't know how much you missed me. I won't go into all the other things that brought us together and drove us apart over the years; all in all, they are too painful to remember.
But then you came to me in Japan and for these last five and a half months, I felt that nothing and no one could come between us. And now this! Yes, I admit I wanted him dead, but not at your expense and not at this price.
I can only say that I did not lie, I just chose to say nothing at all. I was afraid. It's no excuse, I know, but it's all I have to offer. How can you tell the one person that you love more than anything, something so terrible, so vile about yourself? How can you just tell the things that you've been trying long and hard to bury? How can you tell what nightmares are made of? How can you say things that make you sick every time you think of them? How can you forgive me?
Darcy let the tears fall. I forgive you!
Either way, I'm staying here with you, whether you like it or not, or whether you want to see me or not. I will always be there for you and I'll do whatever I can to help you, no matter what the consequences. I love you with all my heart and I can't live without you. You complete me. I will love you, forever.
Liz
Darcy clutched the letter to his heart and shook his head. He then read the letter three more times, and felt foolish, stupid, arrogant, and vain. It was obvious to him that she couldn't trust him enough to tell her secrets. It pained him to see how much she had gone through, yet she was the strong one. He caressed the pages, closed his eyes and pretended for a few delicious moments that he was caressing Elizabeth.
The clanging of the gates startled his private dreams, awakening him to the fact that it was lights out time.
The rest of the month
Georgiana had hired the best lawyers, specialists, private investigators, and spin-doctors money could buy.
Darcy still refused to see Elizabeth; he maintained that he did not want her to see him in this particular institution, although he never told her so or anyone else for that matter.
Elizabeth had not had a peaceful night's sleep since she heard the news. She had thought that her letter had paved the way for reconciliation, but she had not heard a word from Darcy.
The rest of the year
Georgiana had once again, quit her rising career on the stage; the Bennet's and the Bingley's remained in Dallas for the duration.
Darcy had begun to open up and tell the details to his lawyers, as more and more details and reports were released from the police. The trial date had been set for January 1998, yet it was going to be hard to find an impartial jury. Darcy had to fire one of his attorney's, a Mr. Philips; he kept insisting that Darcy plead insanity and spouting the reason of said plea was based on the many concussions that he suffered during the last few years.
Elizabeth had not yet been allowed to see Darcy, yet she had spoken on several occasions with his lawyers and the police.
The 'Trial of the Century' it was deemed and the entire world was eager for it to begin. There were more and more quotes from so-called friends and acquaintances, leaks from all parties as to the contents of evidence, etc. Not a day went by that there was not some late breaking newsworthy item or tidbit. Caroline was even interviewed, but she chose not to disclose any details, nor did she chose sides.
January 1998
The prosecuting attorney and the defense counsel interviewed more than a thousand people and came up with 12 jurors and 4 alternatives; and who all agreed to be sequestered once the trial began.
The prosecutor's office knew that they had an iron clad case; Darcy admitted to the murder, but they feared they would only get manslaughter 2 and a minimal sentence because of who Darcy was and what he meant to the State of Texas. On the other hand, the defense knew they could probably get Darcy off, but there was one piece of evidence and a key witness missing.
The first 2 weeks were filled with just the preliminary's: the numbering of the evidence; the introduction of the jurors and their roles and responsibilities; the list of person's bearing testimony; the decision to invite the media and their limitations; the limitation on the number of counsel; and what evidence or opinions would or should be excluded; etc. The hype went way beyond reality.
Georgiana and Bingley showed up in court everyday, while Jane and the Bennet's took turns taking care of Elizabeth.
Monday, January 19th
The real trial began. As Darcy was led into the courtroom, he sought out his friends and family; they were sitting on the front bench right behind his lawyers. Darcy did not see Elizabeth and was glad for it; the last thing he wanted was for her to see him in handcuffs. The bailiff removed his shackles and guided Darcy to his seat.
"All rise!" Everyone stood up as the judge walked in. "Judge Ann Haker presiding!" The judge sat down. "Court is now in session!" The judge banged her gavel. "You may be seated!"
On this day, both the prosecutor's and the defense made their declarations.
The prosecuting team made their declaration of guilty of murder of the 2nd degree by way of evidence and Darcy's confession. Their proclamation of Darcy's anger, hatred and jealousy, after hearing the tape and subsequently being in cahoots with his housekeeper to remove the weapon; it took up almost the whole morning.
After lunch break, the defense proclaimed Darcy was defending himself against imminent danger as would be demonstrated by testimonials and evidence.
Tuesday, January 20th
The prosecution brought forth the Coroner and his official report and the arresting officer (first one the scene) and his official report. It was a very long and drawn out process.
The rest of the week
The prosecution called a few individuals to the stand, mostly friends of Wickham or those that told of him in the best light; there were not many. All were asked to return for cross-examination from the defense.
February 1998
The first 2 weeks
The prosecution brought in scientists, psychologists, DNA specialists, and renowned criminal investigators.
Thursday, February 12th
Mrs. Wickham was asked to tell the story of her son's childhood and relationship with the Darcy's; she recounted every tiny detail for more than 3 hours.
After lunch break, the prosecuting attorney continued with her. "Mrs. Wickham, why do you think William Darcy killed your son?"
"Objection! Speculative."
"Your Honor, Mrs. Wickham and her family have long been friends with the Darcy's. I believe she may be able to shed some light on the situation."
"Mr. Percy, the court is not interested in speculation or hearsay. Unless Mrs. Wickham has some evidence then I suggest you relieve your witness of her seat. Sustained!"
"I shall rephrase my question, if it pleases the court?" The judge nodded. "Mrs. Wickham, do you have any evidence as to present to this court?"
"Yes I do!"
"And what is this evidence?"
"My boy," she sniffled. " My precious only child, gone forever... is George Darcy's illegitimate son and Will knew it all along!" she wailed.
"What?!" cried Darcy as he stood up.
A buzz of excitement went up throughout the courtroom.
"You killed him because you didn't want him to get the money!" she screamed and pointed.
"You're a liar, Mandy! You are lying b..." Darcy was muzzled and restrained before he could utter another word.
The judge banged her gavel. "Order! Order in this courtroom!"
"We apologize for the outburst your Honor! However, this is not evidence, but malicious rumor and I object!"
"Overruled!"
"May I proceed, your Honor?" The judge nodded. "Go on Mrs. Wickham."
"Well, I was 19 when I left Arizona. I went to Hollywood to become an actress, you know? I did all right; I was signed by MGM and was a starlet on the rise. Not soon after I signed the contract, I met George Darcy. We dated and all, until I found out he was married. By that time, I had become friends with his best friend, my late husband, Henry Wickham. I was completely destroyed and Henry lent me his shoulder to cry on. Later, when I found out I was pregnant, Henry offered to marry me. He loved me despite the fact that I was carrying George's baby, and he vowed to love my son as well. Before George was born, I confronted George Darcy and told him the truth. He told me he would divorce his pregnant wife and marry me, but I told him no, I was head-over-heels for Henry. He insisted on being a part of his son's life, so he agreed to become his godfather."
Darcy had to be restrained, Georgiana was beet-red angry, the rest of the family was shocked beyond words, and the reporters were busy scribbling notes for tomorrow's edition.
"You loved your husband?"
"Oh yes! He was the best of men."
"Why didn't you have anymore children?"
"My husband was... impotent."
"What do you mean, impotent? Did he try any of the new breakthrough treatments?"
"Maybe impotent is not the word I'm looking for..."
"Yes, Mrs. Wickham?"
"My husband was... gay," she whispered dramatically.
"What was that Mrs. Wickham?"
"My husband was gay! He didn't like women in that way! That's why we never had children!" Mrs. Wickham wept openly. "But I loved him! He took care of me!"
The courtroom was in an uproar again.
The judge banged her gavel again. "Order in this court! I said, order!" The buzz died down. "If we have anymore outbreaks, I will throw the lot of you out and this courtroom will be devoid of the media! Am I understood?!" There was nodding all around.
"Your Honor, may I approach the bench?" asked Mr. Gardiner. The judge nodded and both lead attorneys came forth. Judge Haker covered her microphone. "Your Honor, this is all new to us and we are not prepared for it!"
"Mr. Percy, how dare you introduce a new source without the proper procedures in place! Do you choose to incur the wrath of this court?"
"You Honor it was not within my power to know what Mrs. Wickham would say during an outburst..."
"You goaded her! You knew! I stand in protest, your Honor."
"I will make note of this in my report, Mr. Gardiner. Mr. Percy, consider yourself under investigation."
"But, but your Honor!"
"No buts, Mr. Percy. I have spoken on the matter. Now Mr. Gardiner, how would you like to proceed?"
"I would like some time with my client, your Honor. I feel that he may be able to shed some light. Or if necessary, he may give us permission for further investigation. I do, however, request permission to cross-examine Mrs. Wickham during our defense."
"Permission granted. Now back away." The judge waited until both men stood behind their desks. "Thank you Mrs. Wickham, you may step down, but be prepared to return for the defense." The judge waited for Mrs. Wickham to return to her seat. "Due to unforeseen circumstances by way of Mrs. Wickham's testimony, court is adjourned until Monday next." The judge banged her gavel.
"All rise!" bellowed the bailiff and everyone stood. The judge left for her chambers to file her report. The bailiff walked toward Darcy, cuffed and him and led him out.
The reporters gathered around the doorway as the Bingley's and Georgiana left; they were met by a security team they hired and escorted to an awaiting limousine.
The lawyers waited at the county jail until Darcy arrived to have a private consultation.
"I don't know anything! I know she's a liar and a witch and a..." growled Darcy.
"Can you tell us anything about Mrs. Wickham? Something more concrete. We need to make her look like... like she would lie if it benefited her."
"I could tell you a few things, but I'm not sure that they would help." Darcy went on to tell of those things he knew or had heard.
"Would you consider an exhumation?"
"If it would clear my father's name, but..."
"Take your time and think about it. But we'll need answer on Monday." Darcy nodded and the team left.
Friday, January 13th
Morning papers all over the world screamed this headline on page 1: 'Father Knows Best' or something similar. They recounted the story that Mrs. Amanda Wickham told under oath.
Georgiana woke up early, called the team of lawyers and asked them to the house to meet privately.
"Thank you for coming. I'm so glad you could make it on such short notice."
"Georgiana, what is this all about?"
"You'd be surprised at things people say when they think the children are at play." Georgiana went on to tell all that she had overheard during her younger years. The lawyers left in a hurry, making calls to their investigative team in their cars or on their cell phones, and apprising all of their newest information.
Georgiana and Bingley went to see Darcy at the jailhouse.
"What a shocker, huh?" chuckled Georgiana.
"I'm glad you can laugh at all of this! Dad and Mom are probably rolling over in their graves!"
"I think all will be well, big brother," she smiled."
"You know something, don't you?"
"Yes, but I can't tell you. We may all find out next week. Just rest easy, okay?"
"Okay... How's Liz?"
"She's fine."
"Why don't you talk to her Will?" asked Bingley. "She doesn't look well and she really..."
"Chip," Georgiana interrupted. "I think it's time for us to leave."
"You're right. The lawyers want to go over our testimony for next week."
They said their good-byes and left.
"You almost blew it!" snapped Georgiana, as they walked to the car.
"I know. I'm sorry. I just think he ought to know."
"Yeah, me too. But it's not for us to tell."
Monday, February 16th
"All rise!" Everyone stood up as the judge walked in. "Judge Ann Haker presiding!" The judge sat down. "Court is now in session!" The judge banged her gavel. "You may be seated!"
"Mr. Percy do you have anymore witnesses?"
"No your Honor!"
"Then you may proceed with your summation."
Mr. Percy laid out his summation; he included the facts, the evidence, the testimonials, and the opinions. This took all of the morning and quite a bit of the afternoon.
"I will reserve my closing argument after the defense has had the opportunity to present their case. Thank you."
"Mr. Gardiner, are you prepared?"
"Yes your Honor!"
"Good! I request Mr. Percy and Mr. Gardiner's presence in my chambers immediately after this session. Court is adjourned until tomorrow morning!"
"All rise!" bellowed the bailiff.
In the judge's chambers, Judge Haker castigated Mr. Percy for his antics in the courtroom. "After interviewing Mrs. Wickham on Friday last, she told me that she came to you at the last moment to tell you of her secret. This, of course, does not clear you of misconduct. I cannot, in good conscience, allow you to get away with such an offense. You, as an officer of the court, should've asked for permission to speak and presented thus information for Mr. Darcy's defense to act upon and investigate. And for you to infer the stupidity of Mr. Gardiner and myself, by feigning ignorance, is to me, beyond words. I will submit my report to your superiors and bear witness to it in person, if asked. You and Mr. Gardiner and will receive copies. If it was up to me, I would have you thrown out immediately. However, since I cannot do as I wish, I want to assure you that prejudice will not be formed against you in this courtroom by me. I will be a fair and impartial judge."
"Thank you, your Honor."
"In the future, if you choose again to perform before the camera's, as I believe you did, I will press my point and give Mr. Gardiner the opportunity to ask for a mistrial and your instantaneous dismissal. Do we have an understanding?"
"Yes, your Honor and I beg your forgiveness once again."
"It is not mine for the asking, Mr. Percy. It is the entire judicial system, bore but by these hallowed halls, that you must ask forgiveness. You are both dismissed."
Tuesday, February 17th
Darcy entered the courtroom and, as usual, looked to the front row for his friends and family. They were all seated and smiled as he caught their gaze. Darcy smiled also, until he saw the face of the one he hadn't seen in more than 8 months, he froze transfixed. Darcy blinked back tears as Elizabeth looked upon him, he shook his head to try and clear his mind, but when he looked up again, she was still there. The bailiff tugged on his arm and led him to his seat; Darcy could not take his eyes off of Elizabeth. He tried to train his eyes on what was before him, but his mind wouldn't let him. He turned again and Elizabeth placed her hand on the railing in front of her and Darcy placed his hand on hers and stroked it for the barest of moments. Her eyes flashed her feelings as did his; he loved her and she loved him. Darcy drank in her face knowing it might soon be the last time, but she looked different somehow, so he memorized every trace, glimmer, line, and curve. He vowed to himself to not look back at her again; it was too painful.
Mr. Gardiner presented his case, he declared Darcy innocent by reason of self-defense. It took all of two hours.
The defense team questioned the coroner on his official report
The next 2 days
The defense team questioned the arresting officer on his official report. They brought in their own set of psychologists, scientists, DNA specialists, and renowned criminal investigators.
Friday, February 20th
"Your Honor, may I present this report for your review?"
"You may approach the bench, Mr. Gardiner."
"Thank you, your Honor," he said as he handed her several pieces of paper.
Judge Haker perused them and raised an eyebrow. "Mr. Percy would you approach the bench, please?"
"Yes your Honor," he said as he jumped and strode quickly to the bench.
"I suggest a 15 minute recess, while the gentlemen meet me in my chambers."
"All rise!"
In the chambers, she handed Mr. Percy the report for him to review; he read it and turned pale. "A porn star?!?!?!"
"In regards to Mrs. Wickham, how would you like to proceed Mr. Gardiner?"
"I would have preferred to strike Mrs. Wickham's testimony from the records..." Mr. Percy brightened. "However, since this case is open to the media and they have crucified the Darcy family for the past week, I should like to rectify the situation and ask Mrs. Wickham back on the stand." Mr. Gardiner smiled at Mr. Percy, just in time to see the sweat breaking out over his entire forehead.
"As you wish, Mr. Gardiner."
Later
"All rise!"
"You may proceed Mr. Gardiner."
"Thank you, your Honor. I should like to call Mrs. Amanda Wickham to the stand." He waited for her to be sworn in by the bailiff. "Mrs. Wickham, last week, to be exact, last Thursday, you claimed that George Wickham was fathered by George Darcy, is that correct?"
She looked over at Mr. Percy for help, but he had his head down. "Yes..."
"I didn't hear you, Mrs. Wickham. What was your answer?"
"I said yes!" she glared.
"Thank you. Now, on that same day, you also claimed that your husband, Henry Wickham, was gay. Am I correct there also?"
Her eyes darted around the courtroom. "Yes."
"Thank you, once again. Are you sure that those are the statements you wish to make as a part of the official record of this trial?" She didn't answer. He cleared his throat. "Mrs. Wickham. Are you sure of your statements?"
"Yes!" she answered testily.
"Then first tell us why you had 1 miscarriage and 3 planned terminations after George Wickham was born? If in fact your husband was gay. Or did these terminations have something to do with your being a porn queen?"
You could hear a pin drop in the courtroom.
"Well, I, I, uh, I..."
"I'm sorry Mrs. Wickham, are you feeling ill? Would you like a glass of water?" She nodded and the bailiff handed her a glass to drink. "Feeling better?" She nodded. "Now, Mrs. Wickham, can you explain yourself?"
She gulped as she looked around the courtroom; she saw everyone snickering behind their hands, and she fainted.
The courtroom was cleared for lunch as the bailiff applied the appropriate measures to bring Mrs. Wickham back to the land of reality. During lunch break, it was explained to Mrs. Wickham that fainting won't delay her testimony, it would only bring swifter justice.
After lunch break, the trial resumed.
"Mrs. Wickham, you were about to tell us about how your husband was or was not the father of your 'unborn' children."
"Well, I did exaggerate on the truth a little."
"And how is that Mrs. Wickham?"
"My, my husband was not gay. He was, well, after his stroke, he became impotent," she said as she wiped the sweat from her face.
"I see. And what year did this stroke happen?"
"I believe it was in 1987."
"And George Wickham would've been how old?"
"19."
"I see. And you were about to tell us how George Darcy fathered your son."
"Well... I, I, uh, I didn't say it was exactly George Darcy..." she cowered in her seat.
"Oh, I must be mistaken. Your Honor, may I have the court record read from last Thursday?"
"Yes, you may. Miss McManus could you read Mrs. Wickham's testimony on last Thursday, please?" Spring McManus, the court stenographer read the entire transcript. "Thank you, Miss McManus, you may be seated."
"Your last statement to us today was that you didn't exactly say George Darcy, but the transcript states that you did. Would you like to tell us the real story, Mrs. Wickham?"
"I, uh, I was... I was confused your Honor! Please?! Please?! Have mercy on me?" she cried bitterly.
"Mrs. Wickham, you must finish your testimony before I rule on anything. Please ask your question again, Mr. Gardiner?"
"Yes your Honor. Mrs. Wickham, how could George Darcy father your son, when you met him almost 2 years after George was born?"
"Well..." she trembled. "It wasn't George Darcy, it was George Hamilton."
"Excuse me? I don't think everyone heard you."
"I said it was George Hamilton who got me pregnant!" she wailed.
"Thank you, Mrs. Wickham! I have no further questions, your Honor."
"Perjury, in my courtroom is a serious offense. I sentence Mrs. Wickham to the maximum of 3 months in jail and a $2,500 dollar fine. Bailiff, please remove Mrs. Wickham from this court and into the hands of the authorities outside?" She banged her gavel as Mrs. Wickham cried for mercy, her pleas went unheard. "Mr. Gardiner, please proceed?!"
"Thank you, your Honor. I call..."
Mr. Gardiner called up some of Darcy's teammates from high school and college. They told of Darcy's goodness and of Wickham's wickedness.
Court was adjourned for the weekend.
The weekend
The weekend papers screamed new headlines around the world: 'Mother Goose and other fairy tales' or something similar. They recounted the lies told by Mrs. Amanda Wickham under oath and her subsequent incarceration. Mr. Hamilton had no comment when handed a picture of George Wickham, but he was obviously shocked by the resemblance; the boyish good looks and the famous hereditary mole on the side of his face. And he did remember having a torrid affair with 'Dandy Mandy, always passing out the Candy', in his younger days.
The next few days
The defense recalled some of those so-called friends of Wickham's and tore their previous testimonies apart; they also called more teammates, friends and family of Darcy, including Bingley.
Thursday, February 26th
"Miss Darcy, this morning you recounted your long acquaintance with George Wickham, this afternoon, I would like you to continue to do so. Please tell the court of your most recent past with the departed."
"Well, I had always liked George. He was funny and nice. And so when he asked me out I was truly surprised and happy. I was going to turn 21 in a few days, when I got a call from George to ask me for a date. I accepted and we went to a nice restaurant in Beverly Hills. We started seeing each other more and more and... well, he started asking me for money. I gave it to him; I didn't see anything wrong with it at the time. But then, I started getting suspicious, when the sums would increase by thousands. At one point, I said 'No, no more money' and then he hit me. Right on the side of my face. I was devastated, but he apologized and made me feel better, so I passed it off and continued to see him. For a while, he didn't ask me for anymore money and I was glad. But then, one day, we were at a party and I had lost track of him, but I found him in one the back rooms, using... you know, drugs. I was appalled, so I left. He came by later and apologized and told me it was nothing, he just used it when he wanted to stay up late. Again, I accepted his apology. One morning, after I had appeared in a stage play, he noticed how tired I was and he fixed me a special cup of coffee. I didn't know it at the time, but he had laced it. He started making me coffee morning, noon and night. I was hooked. So he started giving it to me, without the coffee. By that time... he was able to do anything he wanted to me and take everything he wanted."
"What do you mean Miss Darcy?" She looked at Mr. Gardiner with a question in her eyes. "What did you mean when you said 'he was able to do anything and take everything'?
"I, I, well..." she sighed. "He would slap me around... And he would make me take money out of my trust fund."
"And how much did you give him?"
"Around 10 million dollars."
"What did he do with all that money?"
"I don't know exactly. I heard he was a big time gambler, but obviously some of it was to feed me more drugs... After a while, when I became totally dependent, he left me high and dry."
"What happened then?"
"According to my friend Dawn, she found me in the alley behind the stage, begging for drugs and money. She took care of me for a few days and then called my brother. He checked me into a clinic."
"Did you tell your brother what happened?"
"Eventually. After I got out of the clinic, I told him."
"What happened then?"
"Will was very angry, very upset. I knew what he was going to do and I begged him not to."
"And when was that?"
"In June of 1993."
Mr. Gardiner turned to face the jury. "Hmmm, that's a very long time to wait to exact revenge?" He turned back to Georgiana, "Thank you, Miss Darcy. I have no further questions, your Honor."
"Mr. Percy, would you like to question the witness?"
"No, your Honor."
Your Honor, may I approach the bench?"
"Yes, Mr. Gardiner." Both gentlemen approached.
"Your Honor, my next witness is going to take a while in her testimony... Seeing as it is close to the hour, can we start fresh tomorrow?"
"Yes, I will grant your request. Step back, please? Court is adjourned until tomorrow."
Everyone went home and discussed the case. The Darcy household was hopeful, yet unsure. The investigative team had been close to discovering the missing pieces, but it had alluded them thus far.
Friday, February 27th
"Mr. Gardiner, are you ready to proceed?"
Yes, your Honor. I call Mrs. William Darcy to the stand!"
Gasps went up around the courtroom.
Darcy jerked his head around and paled as he saw her stand up. "No!" he yelled. "No! Oh God, what have I done?! No! Please?!" he cried again as his team restrained him.
"Order! Order!"
Elizabeth lumbered toward the front and stopped in front of Darcy. She had tears in her eyes as she looked on her beloved.
"I'm sorry, Liz! Please, please, please, forgive me?!?! I didn't know! I didn't know!" Darcy sobbed.
Elizabeth looked at the judge, pleadingly.
"Mrs. Darcy, are you well enough to sit, for what may turn out to be a long day?"
"Yes, your Honor. But, may I have a moment with my husband, please? I haven't seen him almost 9 months."
Judge Haker had to blink back tears. "Court recess for 20 minutes!" she banged her gavel.
"All rise!"
Darcy nearly jumped over the table to embrace Elizabeth. "Forgive me?! Forgive me?! Please?!" he cried into her hair.
"Come with me," said a shaky Elizabeth.
They walked into the same hallway where the judge had gone. Judge Haker called them over. "You can use my chambers to talk."
Darcy wrapped his arms around Elizabeth and held her as tight as he could. "If I had known..."
"You wouldn't talk to me. How was I going to tell you? I couldn't send it in another letter?"
"No." Darcy shook his head in shame and let her go. "I'm such a fool, Liz... Sit down, please?" He sat next to her and held her hands. "I continue to shut you out, yet you bring me the greatest joy." He bent down and kissed her swollen stomach. "When are you due?" his lips trembled.
"Soon," she bit back tears.
"My baby's going to born while I'm in jail!!!" Darcy could no longer hold his tears and he cried uncontrollably in her lap.
"We still have hope, sweetie," she said as she stroked his hair and wiped his tears.
Later
Mr. Gardiner, I hope you can keep this short? Mrs. Darcy looks as though she might deliver any moment now."
"I will try your Honor... Mrs. Darcy, when did you marry Will Darcy?"
"Last May in Japan."
"That would explain why no one was aware of your marriage."
"Yes, I guess it would..."
"Mrs. Darcy, can you tell us how you came to know George Wickham?"
Elizabeth talked slowly as the seat was uncomfortable and her breathing a little shallow. "I came to the U of M in August 1986. I was a freshman and after the first week, there was a party; I met him that night. He asked me for a dance and then later for a date. I danced with him, but turned him down for the date. One of my suitemate's was already dating him by then; they were both sophomores'. Every so often, I would see him on campus and he continued to ask me out. I felt flattered that someone like him would take notice of me, but I had also heard of his reputation as being a ladies man, so I continued to refuse him. After a few weeks, I gave in. We started dating, seriously, or so I thought. After a while, he told me he loved me and I told him the same, and after 2 months I found out I was pregnant... He told me he was using a condom and I believed him. Suddenly, he began avoiding me like the plague; he never returned my phone calls or messages. Finally, around the first or second week of December, I saw him. We went into the stairwell of the student center to talk, but it got ugly real quick. We argued."
"What did you argue about?"
Elizabeth wiped her tears. "I told him I was pregnant. He said it wasn't his. I told him that he was the only one. He told me he could get a bunch of guys to lie and say that I had slept with them. I told him that a blood test would prove that he was the father. He got really angry and he pushed... He pushed me down a flight of stairs..." Here Elizabeth paused to get control of her emotions. "I ended up in the hospital. Suffice it say, I lost the baby."
"Did you press any charges?"
"No... I was afraid."
"But I understand that there is an incomplete police report."
"Yes. When I awoke in the hospital, I screamed that I had been pushed and they, the emergency team, called the police. When I came to, after the surgery, I found a policewoman standing over me. I told her that there was nothing to report and that I had fallen. She was very sympathetic and could see that I was scared. Officer Laura McCarthy even called me every so often to try to convince me to go through with it. But I never did."
"And did you tell anyone about your troubles?"
"Yes. One of my suitemate's, Charlotte, called my sister, Jane at Penn State, and she flew in the next day. I still didn't tell her, until we got back to the dorm room. I couldn't sleep, I couldn't eat, and I was having nightmares. So Jane called a school psychologist to help me..."
"Did the psychologist help?"
"A little. Jane left to go back to school. I didn't go home for Christmas that year, though. I wasn't ready to see my family. I met with the psychologist twice a week for 2 months."
"What happened then, Mrs. Darcy."
"He started making threats to me again."
"Are you referring to George Wickham?"
"Yes. He tried to drag me into stairways, he would jump out from behind things to scare me, or he would get in my face and just stare at me. Then when those threats didn't work, he started slipping notes under my bedroom door at night."
"Do you... did you keep any of those notes?"
"I threw all of them away, or so I thought. One of my suitemate's, Genette, kept them for me. I didn't know that until recently, she sent them to me a few months back."
"Your Honor, the notes are in evidence as item 12. Please continue, Mrs. Darcy."
"I vowed to get to him back, regardless of the consequences. I vowed revenge and I got it. I started following him around. Sometimes on foot, other times I used Teg's car. He, uh, used to hang out at this house, all the time. I would wait until he came out and I saw him staggering, etc. I decided to go in one night, when I knew his pattern."
"His pattern?"
"Yes, he had football practice on certain nights and was unable to go to that house. So I went in and saw what went on. There I plotted my revenge."
"And how did you do that?"
"There was an assistant coach, who wanted to take me out. I kept turning him down, but then I thought I could use him. Forgive me Marks? I finally gave in and told him when and where to meet me. I timed it so that he would arrive on the corner, just as he was going in. Marks recognized him immediately, but I jumped in his car before he could say anything to stop him; we just watched him go in. Needless to say, our date ended early. Marks went straight to the Head Coach and dragged him to the house. They saw him gambling, drinking, and using an illegal substance. That night, he was released from the team and later, he was kicked out of school. I only saw him a few more times that year. I had my revenge and I was happy."
"May I interrupt?"
"Yes, your Honor."
"I suggest an hour lunch break, at this point. You may remain, as you are Mrs. Darcy. Court is adjourned for lunch!"
"All rise!"
The bailiff helped Elizabeth from the stand and guided her to her family. Their security team led them out to a restaurant closed to everyone, but them. Darcy went to the holding cell for his break.
After lunch break, everyone rejoined in the courtroom.
"You may proceed, Mr. Gardiner."
"Thank you, your Honor... Mrs. Darcy are you able to go on?"
"Yes."
"Good! Thank you. Mrs. Darcy, in your testimony before lunch, you stated that after your revenge you didn't see George Wickham again. Is that correct?"
"I said that I didn't see him again that year."
"When did you see him again?"
"In January 1989."
"More than 2 years?" Elizabeth nodded. "How did you come across him then?"
"He had heard that I spent New Year's with the Darcy's and he started calling me in the middle of the night."
"Did he threaten you then?"
"Yes, and he said he wanted me back. I told him in no uncertain terms, no, and then I hung up. He called me back and told me that he would tell Will everything. He called me names, cursed, and threatened..."
"Your Honor, the cassette tape which we heard in day 2 of this trial, is item 9 amongst the evidence. Go ahead Mrs. Darcy."
"I was so scared that I started carrying a knife."
"Was that it? Did you see George Wickham again?"
"Later that year, I saw him again. He threatened me on several occasions, he was desperate."
"Why was he so desperate?"
"He wanted to play football again. He thought that Will would put in a good word for him with the Cowboys. He thought I was the one standing in the way of his dreams. But it wasn't me. I was afraid to even think about him, let alone say his name. I thought that all that was over when he left. But I saw him again. He did not make the team that year and he and Will had a fight. Again, he thought it was me. The next year, it was almost time for summer camp and the Cowboys invited him back. Before he went to camp, he came to visit me in New York City... More threats."
"And that was it? You never saw George Wickham again?"
"I never saw him again."
"And did you ever tell Will Darcy about you and George Wickham?"
"Yes I did."
The courtroom was abuzz.
"When was that?"
"A few days after Will went to jail, last June."
"Why did you wait?"
Elizabeth paused and wrung her hands. "I had been keeping this secret for so long! I was afraid... afraid that Will would hate me... afraid that Will would leave me for good..."
Mr. Gardiner turned to face the jury. "So Will Darcy did not know about this until afterwards... Hmmm?" He then turned back to Elizabeth. "Thank you, Mrs. Darcy. Your witness, Mr. Percy."
"Mr. Percy, do you wish to question the witness?"
"No, your Honor." Mr. Percy did not feel good about questioning the people closest to the defendant.
"You may step down, Mrs. Darcy. Bailiff," she waved him over to help Elizabeth back to her seat.
Mr. Gardiner called up several Dallas Cowboys, city leaders, charity organizers, etc. for their testimony on behalf of Darcy.
Court was adjourned for the weekend.
Saturday, February 28th
Mr. Gardiner and his team of lawyers talked to Darcy, the entire morning, to go over his testimony the next week.
Elizabeth, Georgiana and Bingley went to the jail that afternoon.
"I don't want her to see me like this, Gi! How many times do I have to say it?!"
"You can say it till the walls come down, Will! But that woman out there is your wife! She's getting ready to have your child!"
"Can't you see how much this is killing me?! I beg you, don't torture me! Take her home... take her home. Guard!"
Georgiana stormed out of the room and when she saw Elizabeth and Bingley sitting on a bench, she just shook her head. Elizabeth choked back tears as they led her out to the car. When they arrived home, Elizabeth went straight to her room and cried in her bed.
Later that night, Elizabeth was awakened by a ruckus downstairs.
Jane and Georgiana ran up to her room. "Lizzy! Lizzy!" they said in unison as they threw open her door. "They found it! They found it!"
Monday, March 2nd
The courtroom was jam-packed. This was usual, however, today those people that couldn't get in, stood in the hallways, along the stairs, on the level below, outside the courtroom, in the park across the street, just to get a glimpse or the first word. All this interest was due to the leaks to the press over the weekend.
"All rise!" Everyone stood up as the judge walked in. "Judge Ann Haker presiding!" The judge sat down. "Court is now in session!" The judge banged her gavel. "You may be seated!"
Judge Haker had received a phone call early Sunday morning, relating the news. Ah, the crowd is here, now send in the clowns! "Mr. Gardiner, you may proceed."
"Your Honor, may I present to you items 21 and 22 for evidence." The judge nodded and he approached the bench. "Item 21 is the smoking gun and Item 22 is the confession of Will Darcy's housekeeper, Mrs. Alexis Young!"
"Would you care to explain to the court how you came up with this evidence, Mr. Gardiner?"
"Yes, thank you, your Honor! With the help of Mr. Percy, the prosecutor's office, the FBI, and our own investigative team, we located Mrs. Young in South America. She still had the gun on her person when she was apprehended and she confessed all."
The courtroom was in an uproar.
"Order! Order! Or I will have everyone removed, except those pertinent to this case!" she banged her gavel. "I will not condone one more outburst from the lot of you!" Judge Haker cleared her throat. "Mr. Gardiner, why did Mrs. Young still have the gun in her possession?"
"She was on the run, your Honor. Scared out of her wits in a foreign country and little money."
"Did she explain her actions?"
"Yes, your Honor. According to her confession, Mrs. Young witnessed the fight. She had heard loud noises and ran into the room to see to the matter. She turned on the light and saw them tussling against a wall. Darcy knocked the gun out of Wickham's hand. Wickham ran to pick it up at the same time that Darcy lunged for it. They struggled on the floor and the gun went off. Will Darcy rolled off of Wickham and saw blood; he thought he was the one shot and panicked. As he ran to call the police, Mrs. Young took the gun and ran off."
"Why would Mr. Darcy's housekeeper run off and leave her employer in trouble?"
"Unfortunately for her, Mrs. Young had a long association with Wickham, your Honor. She provided him a place to stay when he was in town and he managed to get her a job as the housekeeper, on Darcy's Aunt Catherine de Bourgh's recommendation. Wickham had been living in Darcy's house for the last month that Will Darcy was in Japan, unbeknownst to the owner, of course. He was expecting to receive a large sum of money from George Darcy's will and promised Mrs. Young that they would run away to together. Wickham was lying in wait for his former friend and the gun is in her name."
Judge Haker shook her head. "Mr. Percy, do you have anything to add to this?"
"Yes, your Honor, I do! The city of Dallas, in the great state of Texas, would like to drop all charges against Will Darcy! It has been proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that this was a case of self-defense!"
Darcy yelped, stood and looked for Elizabeth, but she was not there. Cheers went up throughout the courtroom, but the judge didn't mind.
"Order! Order!" she banged her gavel. "I have not given reason for this kind of display!" Everyone quieted. "Mr. Darcy, it has been brought forth in this court that the case against you should be dropped. However, this is my courtroom and I alone make the decisions..." Darcy's eyes widened in uncertainty. "You are free to go! Case dismissed!" she banged her gavel again.
Darcy hugged his team with tears rolling down his cheeks. "All rise!"
Darcy looked around for his family and friends; Bingley and Georgiana came forward and they embraced each other. Darcy was eternally grateful to everyone, although he looked around the courtroom for his wife. "Where's Liz?!"
They both smiled
"She's in labor!" cried Bingley.
"What?!?!" wailed Darcy.
They all laughed as he ran out the back door, down the stairwell, and to the car.
Darcy arrived in time to help Elizabeth deliver their first child; a boy named Andrew William Darcy. Darcy had always wanted to name his first son after his father, but the extenuating circumstances prevented him from naming his son 'George'. Both agreed that the name 'Darcy' was good enough.
Mr. Percy was reprimanded by the court for his actions and placed on probation for one year. This light sentence was due to his part in finding Mrs. Younge. However, it was bad press to have such an attorney representing the state and he resigned in shame.
Jane and Bingley and their 3 children went back to Atlanta for a nice quiet life. Every 3 or 4 months, they would pack their bags and visit family.
Georgiana went back to New York to act and sing. She eventually became a major star, but quit abruptly and married a nice young man who was an up-and-coming director; they had 2 children, own their own production company and are doing quite well.
Mrs. Young served 10 years in prison and was never heard from again.
After her incarceration, Mrs. Wickham was evicted from her home and has been shacking up with 'never-was has-been' actors ever since.
Caroline left Dallas after everyone found out that Elizabeth and Darcy were married; she dumped her fake fiancé, never married, and never came to visit the Bingley's during holidays; it was too depressing.
Charlotte and Billy Collins lived unhappily married. Billy could not perform his husbandly duties after what Catherine de Bourgh did to him, so Charlotte took on whatever else interested her.
Catherine de Bourgh continued her rampage, or ravaging of young campus men, until a huge scandal broke out and she was dismissed unceremoniously.
Darcy graciously and securely retired from football; he willingly gave up hero worship to pursue other more important areas; his main objectives: to be a full-time father/babysitter, while Elizabeth worked, and a most attentive husband. Eventually, Darcy took over his father's companies and with Elizabeth's help, they made even more money. Elizabeth even made a small fortune for herself when she published her poems. They had one more baby; a girl named Emma Elizabeth Anne. They traveled extensively and throughout their life together, they experienced the ordinary trials and tribulations of life. They lived happily ever after.
