Darcy and Elizabeth are dancing at the Netherfield Ball�
"May I ask to what these questions tend?"
"Simply to the illustration of your character� I am trying to make it out." Darcy was not convinced by Miss Bennet's sudden light manner. Courage man� defend yourself!
"Miss Bennet, if you have something to say to me, say it; but please do not insult my intelligence with these thinly-veiled attacks." Elizabeth was shocked. She had not expected Mr. Darcy to comprehend the true meaning behind her questions. Well, if he wanted to hear it�
"Mr. Darcy, I fear that the ballroom is not the proper place for this conversation. Perhaps�" But he interrupted her.
"Then shall we adjourn to the library?"
"If you wish." The dance ended and Darcy led Elizabeth from the dance floor to the library.
"Well, Miss Bennet, I am ready� do your worst." He attempted to be light-hearted, but Elizabeth could tell that he was nervous. She had to admit that he looked rather handsome in an agitated state� but no, he was a hateful man, and deserved the reproach she was about to give him.
"Well Mr. Darcy, as I mentioned before, we recently made the acquaintance of Mr. Wickham. I noticed the cold manner of your greeting with him, and he satisfied my curiosity by relating to me the story of your dealings with him. I wonder, Mr. Darcy, at you calling yourself an honorable man, after your infliction� you have reduced him to his present state of poverty, denying your own father's dying wishes all the while! How can you possibly defend yourself?" Darcy was growing more incensed by the minute. Who was this girl to be questioning him and his dealings with Wickham? Reduced him to his present state of poverty?! Well, he had asked for it; now he had to defend himself.
"Miss Bennet, I know not under exactly what form of falsehood Mr. Wickham imposed himself on you, but if you are not already implacably decided to think ill of me, please allow me to defend myself on this charge. Mr. Wickham is the son of a very respectable man� (we all know this part!) And that, Miss Bennet, is a faithful narrative of all my dealings with Mr. Wickham." Throughout his tale he had been pacing, and now he threw himself exhaustedly into the chair facing her. "I hope you realize that this was told to you in the strictest confidence, especially as regards my sister. She still feels the damage of this greatly, and I would be very displeased if the story were widely known," he finished pleadingly. Elizabeth only nodded, brow furrowed in deep thought. He looked at her for a few moments longer, then rose. "Well Miss Bennet, I hope you will acquit me of cruelty towards Mr. Wickham. Now, if you will excuse me." He started to leave, but was called back by Elizabeth.
"Mr. Darcy, wait. I� I must apologize to you. I was blinded by my own dislike of you, and was even unwilling to realize how improper it was for Mr. Wickham to relate such a story to me after so brief an acquaintance. All I could think of was how truthful he seemed, and how your manners only confirmed any negative account that could be given of you. I am sorry Mr. Darcy." Now it was his turn to be pensive. Dislike of me? My manners? Of what is she speaking?
"I will be happy to accept your apology Miss Bennet, if you will enlighten me still further. In what way do my manners confirm any negative account of me? And did you say that you dislike me?" He seemed genuinely hurt as he repeated her words. Well, she thought, perhaps proud Mr. Darcy has some proper feeling after all!
"I have no wish to pain you, sir; I believe I have said enough."
"Nay, I insist on knowing your meaning madam," he said with a slight smile. She laughed. Mmm, what a delightful laugh she has.
"Very well, sir, but I warn you that you find it shocking, and quite despise me afterwards. Fortunately this will not be much of a change from the present circumstances, and as I have never sought your good opinion I shall not suffer greatly." Despise her? Is that what she thinks? Oh Elizabeth, if you had any idea� "You are quite sure you wish me to continue?" He bowed. "Alright� Mr. Darcy, from the earliest moments of our acquaintance, your manners have impressed me with the fullest belief in your arrogance, your conceit, and your selfish disdain for the feelings of others. You treat everyone you meet with contempt and ridicule and believe yourself to be above your company. Why, as early as the Meryton assembly you disdained us! I dare say you may have found some of the company barely tolerable, but obviously none of us were handsome enough to tempt you to dance." She raised an eyebrow and Darcy cringed, realizing that she had indeed overheard his conversation with Bingley. "Since then your behavior has been cold, often bordering on the uncivil� in fact, I would say that you have often behaved in quite an ungentlemanlike manner." By now Darcy was furious. Who do these country nobodies think they are?
"You have said quite enough madam, I perfectly comprehend your feelings. I will not force you to spend any more time in my odious company. Good night madam." He opened the library door for her and extended his arm.
"Good night Mr. Darcy." Elizabeth stormed out of the library. Well, at least I have gotten that off my chest! Perhaps now he will leave�humph, that would be a blessing indeed! Now where is Jane? I must acquaint her with what has occurred!
Darcy sat brooding in the library. Arrogance? Conceit? Selfish disdain for the feelings of others? UNGENTLEMANLIKE MANNER?!?! I have always prided myself on being the essence of gentlemanlike behavior! She must be a great simpleton indeed to think that I would ever behave in an ungentlemanlike manner! "No Darcy, you know very well that Elizabeth Bennet is one of the most intelligent women you have ever encountered. Perhaps she has discerned something that you have not. She did hear your conversation with Bingley� good God, I'm talking to myself." He continued his meditations for nearly three-quarters of an hour, fortunately missing the worst displays of Bennet impropriety. He quit the library, humbled, and looked around for Elizabeth. Oh Miss Bennet, I hope you are still here so I can make amends. Then he saw her, in a corner, speaking earnestly to Jane. He took a deep breath and approached her. The sisters stopped their conversation the moment he reached them.
"Miss Bennet, please allow me to apologize for my unkind words earlier. I have no excuse for them other than defense of my damaged pride. Please accept my humblest apologies." As he spoke, Jane slipped away to give them some privacy; Elizabeth was in complete shock. And now the proud Mr. Darcy is apologizing and humbling himself to me! A night of wonders indeed!
"Thank you sir, I shall accept your apology if you will accept mine. My words were impertinent and improper. I did not mean to cause you any pain."
"What did you say of me that I did not deserve? My behavior to you has been unpardonable. No, it is only I who should apologize."
"Well, sir, I am not one to argue with a gentleman." Ah, the teasing look is back in her eyes. She is not angry with me anymore� I think.
"Thank you madam. Now, I do believe that the next set is to begin soon� if you are not otherwise engaged, may I be so bold as to claim your hand for it? As a gesture of friendship."
My, he does look rather handsome when he smiles so warmly. "Thank you sir, I am not engaged. I should be happy to dance with you." The set began and they took their places.
"This is certainly much more pleasant than our last dance, is it not Miss Bennet?" inquired Mr. Darcy smilingly.
"Yes, sir, I believe it is." The half hour passed in pleasant conversation, and both were sorry when it was over. He led Elizabeth off the dance floor, where they stood chatting until�
"My dear cousin Elizabeth! I have been looking for you for some time! I� oh my! Is this gentleman who I think he is?" Elizabeth rolled her eyes in exasperation as Darcy tried to hide a smirk.
"Mr. Darcy, may I present my cousin Mr. Collins. Mr. Collins, this is Mr. Darcy."
"Of course! Mr. Darcy! This is an amazing coincidence. Sir, I am most happy to tell you that your aunt, the honorable Lady Catherine DeBourgh was in the best of health�8 days ago." He smiled and bowed.
"I'm glad to hear it sir. And how are you acquainted with my aunt?"
"Mr. Collins is fortunate enough to enjoy her patronage sir. He is the parson at Hunsfurd." Replied Elizabeth, hoping to keep Mr. Collins quiet.
"Indeed? How very fortunate," said Darcy with a smile to Elizabeth.
"Indeed it is sir. I am most fortunate to be graced with her kind condescension. She is so attentive and obliging and�"
"Yes, I am quite sure of that sir. My aunt has always been very attentive to everything. If you will excuse us." He bowed and pulled Elizabeth away with him. As soon as they were out of earshot, they began to laugh. "Good God, what a ridiculous man! Erm, no offense to your relations Miss Bennet, but.."
"Please do not make yourself uneasy Mr. Darcy. He may be my relation, but I assure you that I am not at all proud of the connection! He is most ridiculous, and has been fawning over me almost since his arrival. I fear that he intends to propose to me, although he could never make me happy, and I am convinced that I am the last person in the world who could make him so!"
"Is that so? Well, perhaps I could use my influence as his great patroness' nephew to push his attentions in a more proper direction. Who do you feel would be a good victim.. er, bride for Mr. Collins?"
"Why Mr. Darcy!" she said with mock alarm. "I do think you have read my mind!" Yes, Miss Bennet, laugh; your laugh is so lovely! "I have noticed that my sister Mary finds him to be agreeable company, and I dare say that they would suit each other very well."
"Miss Mary Bennet� very well, consider it done. I shall talk to him directly." He stood, and with a wink towards Elizabeth, walked in a rather stately manner to Mr. Collins. Happily for Mr. Darcy, Mr. Collins was talking to Mary as he approached, and she did seem quite charmed by him. Yes, this will do very well. "Mr. Collins, may I have a word with you?"
"Oh yes, of course Mr. Darcy, anything for the nephew of my dear patroness!" Darcy led him to the side of the room.
"Mr. Collins, I understand that it is my aunt's particular wish that you marry."
"Yes sir, as she said�"
"Yes, well, I can imagine what she has said. I only wanted to tell you that your choice is an inspired one. My aunt will be very pleased indeed."
"My choice sir? Oh, you mean my charming cousin?"
"Yes, indeed. It is quite obvious that you and Miss Mary Bennet are quite taken with each other. She will make an excellent clergyman's wife, and her disposition will be very agreeable to Lady Catherine. I hope to offer you my congratulations on your engagement very soon sir." Darcy bowed his crispest bow. Mr. Collins was momentarily confused.
"Miss Mary Bennet, sir? Oh, yes, of course, Miss Mary! Yes, she is a lovely creature is she not? It is your opinion that she would be the best choice for my bride?"
"Without a doubt sir! She is of a serious, sober disposition that befits a clergyman's wife very well, and my aunt will be very pleased with her. Miss Jane seems to have been claimed by my dear friend Bingley; Miss Elizabeth is far too impertinent-my aunt would be most displeased with her, and I fear might send you away because of her," at this thought Mr. Collins seemed frightened, "The younger Miss Bennets, I feel, are too young and lively for my aunt's taste."
"Sir, I can not thank you enough for you concern and help. I have taken them to heart, I assure you!"
"Yes, well� go to it then!"
"Of course, thank you Mr. Darcy. Oh Cousin Mary�." Darcy chuckled. What a fool! To think that he considers himself worthy of marrying my Elizabeth! Did I just say MY Elizabeth? Shaking his head, he returned to the table at which Elizabeth was seated and took the chair to her right.
"Well, I dare say that is settled. When I left him he was chasing after your poor sister. I wouldn't be surprised if he proposed tomorrow." They laughed.
"Thank you; I hope indeed that Mary is the object of that proposal, for everyone's satisfaction!"
"And relief," he added softly, but not softly enough for her to miss. Why should you be relieved that Mr. Collins will not propose to me Mr. Darcy? He quickly changed the subject.
"Tell me Miss Bennet�you seem to know the opinions of the neighborhood much better than I. Is it widely believed that my friend and your sister will soon be engaged?" Elizabeth blushed.
"Well sir, he has been very attentive to her. I think the idea is spoken of in the neighborhood."
"And does she return his affections? Please forgive my impertinence, but I care greatly for my friend, and would not wish him to be trapped in a loveless marriage." Color again rose to Elizabeth's cheeks, but this time in anger.
"My sister is not a fortune hunter, if that is what you mean."
"Please do not be offended. But I have noticed no peculiar signs of regard in her countenance. I do not wish her to be indifferent; indeed, that would hurt poor Bingley greatly. I am only expressing the results of impartial observation." Yes, very impartial I'm sure, Mr. Darcy!
"My sister is not the type to wear her heart on her sleeve Mr. Darcy. She may not show her love openly on her face, but she feels it deeply."
"That is all I needed to know Miss Bennet, thank you. I believe I can safely assure you that the neighborhood's expectations will be met." He winked and her countenance softened.
"I see� so you will grant him your permission to propose to my sister then?" she said archly. Your turn to blush now, sir!
"No, no, that is not what I meant, I only�"
"Come Mr. Darcy, we are friends. We need not quarrel about it. Let us change the subject." Are we friends, Elizabeth? I am glad to hear it!
"Very well Miss Bennet. Since we are such good friends, I will not feel awkward in asking for you hand for the rest of the dances this evening."
"That is very selfish of you sir! There are many other young men who wish to dance with me, I am sure. But, I suppose I will grace you with my presence just this once." They danced together for the rest of the ball, and, for the first time since the arrival of the Netherfield party, Jane and Bingley were not the most talked about couple in the neighborhood.
PART II
The day after the Netherfield ball, Darcy gets an early knock on his door�
Darcy groaned and rolled over. He�d been having a rather lovely dream about Elizabeth Bennet, and so was not prepared to be called from his fantasy by the knock on his door. Bloody hell, this better be important! �Who is it?� he asked sleepily as he wrapped his robe around himself.
�It�s Bingley,� came a somewhat nervous sounding voice from the other side of the door. Darcy opened it and ushered in the fully-dressed Charles.
�Bingley, you realize that it is barely past dawn?�
�Sorry Darce�it�s just that I couldn�t sleep any longer, I was too nervous and excited. I�ve made a resolution� I�ve ordered my horse�I�m going to London immediately and I wanted to let you know.� London?? Why on earth would you go to London after the wonderful evening that just passed??
�Why on earth are you going to London, Bingley?� was all he said. His friend started pacing, a crooked little smile on his face.
�Darce�is not Jane Bennet the most angelic creature you have ever beheld?� he mused romantically. Darcy began to formulate an idea of what this sudden trip to London was about, but only smiled as his reply. Satisfied, Bingley continued. �Well, I certainly do. I�m sure I�ve never met a lady with such beauty, grace, modesty, talent, intelligence��
�Bingley,� Darcy interrupted, �the trip to London?�
�Ah yes,� replied Bingley with a blush. �Darce, I�ve fallen madly in love with Jane, and wish to propose to her! Therefore I must go to London to speak with my attorney and get the jewelry I wish to present to her.� His tone seemed to imply that he was asking Darcy�s permission, and Darcy was not about to disappoint him. If Bingley is engaged to Jane, he would visit Longbourne nearly everyday, and as his close friend, I would be free to accompany him and enjoy the charms of her sister� He smiled and offered his hand.
�I am very happy for you Bingley. Jane Bennet is indeed a lovely young woman; I heartily approve of your choice.� Bingley visibly relaxed and smiled. �Have you spoken with your sisters yet?�
�Eh� no, not exactly. Caroline and Louisa don�t like to be disturbed before 10 o�clock, and I want to set out as soon as possible. I sent a servant to London as soon as I awoke, so my attorney should be preparing the settlement when I arrive. If I can I shall propose this very night!� Darcy laughed.
�I believe it takes a bit longer than that my friend! You may be gone for several days.�
�Several days?!?! Why would this be? Jane will think I have abandoned her if I leave right after the ball and don�t return for several days!� He began pacing nervously, but Darcy put a calming arm on his shoulder.
�Not to fear my friend. You go to London as planned. I shall visit Longbourne today and tell them that you have gone to town but will return very soon. And perhaps I may even hint about the personal nature of your business as I look pointedly at Miss Jane?� Darcy teased. The still-anxious Bingley relaxed a bit and laughed.
�Darcy, I do not recall the last time I saw you so jovial. Pray tell me, am I the only one enamored of a Bennet lady?�
�Alright Charles, you caught me. I must admit that I have fallen passionately in love with one of the Bennet ladies.�
�Hah! I knew it! And may I ask which one?� as if I don�t already know�
�Of course� I am proud to say that I have fallen head over heels in love with Mrs. Bennet herself. It was her wit, really which captured me, though her beauty is second to none of her daughters.� Neither man could control himself at this, and to Darcy�s relief, Bingley forgot his question.
�Well Darce, I�m off to town. Do visit Longbourne for me, and� erm.. if you could inform my sisters of my errand, I would be most obliged.�
�If you wish. Now be off with you! Send word when you have safely arrived.�
�Yes mother. Goodbye!� Bingley ran down the corridor, Darcy smiling after him. Charles will be a very happy man. And if I wish to continue to be one for much longer, perhaps I should get dressed and leave as well, before I have to deal with his darling sisters. Sure enough, he was mounting his horse as Caroline and Louisa were coming down the stairs.
�Charles? Mr. Darcy? Where is everyone?� cried Caroline.
�Excuse me Miss Bingley, but Mr. Darcy left you this note.�
�Thank you Fosset. Please bring in the tea.�
�Very good ma�am.�
�What does it say Caroline? Read it aloud!�
Dear Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley,
Your brother has asked me to inform you that he has
gone to town on a matter of personal business. He hopes
to return very soon to propose to Miss Jane Bennet. I
spoke with him this morning and gave him my
heartfelt approval, and I hope you will do the same
when he returns. I myself have gone to Longbourne
to inform them of his departure and intentions to
return within a day or two. Unless I am invited to dine
there, I shall return to dine with you.
Yours, etc.
Darcy
Caroline nearly spit our her tea as she read Darcy�s note. He APPROVES of this marriage?
�Caroline, there must be some mistake. Charles may wish to propose to Jane, but certainly Darcy cannot approve!�
�Yes, I�m sure you are right Louisa. Let us go find him! Fosset! Where is Mr. Darcy?�
�He left just before you came down Miss Bingley. I believe he went to Longbourne.� Caroline could hardly contain her rage. Darcy is visiting the Bennets without an invitation and without Charles? What is going on?
Meanwhile, on the way to Longbourne�
I wonder what Elizabeth will be wearing today. I�m sure she�ll look lovely. What a divine creature she is. How stupid I was to think her only tolerable. Bingley will forgive me, but Elizabeth is definitely the handsomest of the Bennet women. Perhaps I will have caught them so early that Elizabeth will not yet be dressed! Images of running up the stairs of Longbourne to find Elizabeth clothed less than decently flashed through his mind, but he quickly chastised himself. He did, however, allow himself to continue ruminating on her wardrobe, her fine eyes, and the elegance of her figure as she danced. Then, realizing that thoughts of her figure would leave him in no state to enter a house with ladies, he tried turning his attention to less pleasant memories. Such as Caroline�s hideous orange gowns�ugh!, he shuddered. Nothing like thoughts of Caroline Bingley in orange to calm a man�s amorous impulses! I must remember that trick in the future. Chuckling to himself, he finally arrived at Longbourne and handed the reins of his horse to a stable boy.
�Mr. Darcy ma�am,� said Hill as she waved him into the drawing room. He bowed his politest bow and took the seat Mrs. Bennet indicated to him. Then he did something no one expected, especially Mrs. Bennet- he smiled! The ladies were so awestruck at the sight of his teeth that none of them could speak for a full minute. Elizabeth seemed most affected, barely able to maintain her composure at the sight of such a lovely smile. He should do that more often� I would never have refused to dance with him if I had known him capable of looking like that that! Finally she spoke.
�Mr. Darcy, it is a pleasure to see you. Do you come alone this morning?�
�I�m afraid so Miss Bennet. In fact, one of my reasons for coming is to convey a message to you. My friend had to go to town on a matter of personal business,� he replied, looking, as he had said he would, pointedly at Jane, �so he will not be able to dine with you as soon as he had hoped. However, he hopes to return within a day or two, and will then call on you as soon as he is able.� Again he smiled. Mrs. Bennet was amazed; Mr. Darcy had never been so agreeable. What could have affected this change? Then she remembered his attentions to Lizzy at the ball the night before. Why, he had danced four dances with her, and not another lady. He was, to be sure, very handsome, especially when he smiled, and he was one of the richest men in Derbyshire. The idea of having a son-in-law worth ten thousand a year began to sink in, and she suddenly became much friendlier towards �dear Mr. Darcy.�
�My dear Mr. Darcy, since your friend has left you here, we must insist that you stay here and dine with us today. Isn�t that right Lizzy?� Elizabeth blushed, embarrassed by her mother�s behaviour. Darcy, however, seemed amused. How lovely she is with her cheeks so pink!
�Mrs. Bennet, you are very kind. I would be happy to accept. I will send word to Netherfield telling them not to expect me.�
�You do us great honor sir!� replied Mrs. Bennet, not knowing what else to say. After a few moments of silence, her face brightened. �Pray, Mr. Darcy, have you seen the woods and groves around Longbourne? It is such a lovely day, and I am sure that one of my daughters would be more than happy to go walking with you. Lizzy, you know the countryside better than anyone, I dare say� why do you not take Mr. Darcy to Oakham Mount and show him the view?� Lizzy�s face grew even redder. Her mother�s obvious attempts to throw her in Mr. Darcy�s path were becoming quite maddening.
�Of course Mama� I was just about to go on my morning walk myself.� She glanced at Jane, who nodded and rose from her seat as well. �Mr. Darcy, if you will come with us.� He bowed and the three of them walked quickly outside before Mrs. Bennet could think of a reason to call Jane back.
The lane was usually wide enough to accommodate the three of them, but Darcy made sure that he was next to Elizabeth whenever it was not. Jane could not help but smile at his obvious affection for her sister. She slowed her pace a bit to give them some privacy. He was content to simply be in Elizabeth�s company and glance at her every few moments. Elizabeth was somewhat agitated over her mother�s comments, but soon calmed down in the sunshine and cool breeze. And, she had to admit, the company was quite conducive to a good mood.
�Tell me, Mr. Darcy, did Mr. Bingley take his sisters to town with him?� He laughed.
�No, he left them in my care. I fear he would get nothing done if they had gone.�
�Surely they do not interfere in his business matters.�
�No, but this business is of a far more personal nature, which I am not at liberty to discuss at the moment. If I know his sisters, and I do, they will not be in a rage to approve of this business until it is done, at which point they will say how thrilled and excited they are, and how much they will love their new�but I say too much. Suffice it to say that they are still at Netherfield, and it is better for him that they are.� She caught his drift, but decided to tease him a bit.
�And is it better for you as well Mr. Darcy?� she inquired with an arched eyebrow. He turned and met her eyes with an intense gaze.
�I am hardly preoccupied with the occupants of Netherfield right now, Miss Bennet.� His stare and the meaning of his words made her blush and avert his eyes. She continued walking without saying anything in return until they reached Oakham Mount.
�There, sir, is that not lovely?� He looked out at the countryside, then back at her.
�Indeed, nothing lovelier,� he murmured. The look on her face made him realize that he had said this aloud. �Yes, indeed, nothing lovelier in this part of the country, at least that I have seen. But I am far more partial to Derbyshire myself. There is no place like home, after all.� He smiled weakly, hoping that he had covered for his earlier mistake. If not, she did not let on. Jane caught up with them then, and the three of them chatted for a bit before heading back to the house. As they approached, Lydia and Kitty ran up to Jane asking her to solve a dispute. Jane turned to give Lizzy an apologetic look as Lydia practically dragged her back inside. Now alone, Mr. Darcy extended his arm to suggest they walk towards the garden. This way they could still be alone and talk, but within full view of the house as was proper. His gentlemanlike behaviour did not go unnoticed by Elizabeth as they sat down on a small bench. She spoke first.
�Mr. Darcy, I am very glad you are to dine with us. You have been quite agreeable since our discussion in the library,� she teased. �I think seeing your teeth put my mother into quite a shock!� He laughed.
�I admit, not many have had the privilege of seeing my teeth� not in a smile anyway. But today I could not help but smile. I am in a delightful mood that nothing could shake!� He gave her a meaningful look and smiled; she met his gaze and smiled back. The sound of a familiar voice shook them out of there reverie.
�Miss Bennet! I was told that I might find you here! I came to apologize to you for my absence at the ball last night.� Elizabeth turned to face the speaker.
�Mr. Wickham!�
PART III
�Mr. Wickham!� Elizabeth cried as she turned to face their new visitor. At the sound of his voice, Darcy had stiffened, but on hearing the name he jumped to his feet and spun around to look at the loathed man. Wickham�s eyes widened and he paled, but recovered enough to make a slight bow to Darcy. He, however, stood stock still except for clenching his fist and his teeth.
�Darcy! I didn�t expect to see you here,� Wickham said nervously.
�No, I�ll wager you didn�t,� Darcy muttered in reply. Elizabeth saw the anger flare in his eyes, and decided to intervene.
�Mr. Darcy was just paying us a visit, Mr. Wickham, and we were clearing up some previous misunderstandings we had had about each other.�
�Oh?� was all Wickham found to say.
�Yes, indeed, and we were having a most interesting conversation. In fact, when you arrived I was just about to ask him to tell me more about his sister. I believe you know her too, Mr. Wickham; would you care to stay and share your memories of her?� Elizabeth asked archly. Both men at first looked confused, but as each caught her meaning, first Darcy then Wickham, a tiny smirk appeared on one face and a deep flush on the other.
�Indeed, Wickham, I would be interested in hearing your memories of my sister,� said Darcy, with a hint of fury still in his voice. Wickham paled considerably.
�I thank you, but I must be on my way; I only intended to stop by to apologize for last night, and that is done, so I shall leave you. Good day Miss Bennet, Mr. Darcy.� He bowed, turned and walked away visibly shaken. Elizabeth turned to Darcy with a wicked grin.
�You see Mr. Darcy, I am as capable of handling Mr. Wickham as I am of handling you!� He laughed. Oh those teeth again!
�Indeed Miss Bennet, I would have thought you capable of no less!� In fact, I would like to see what more you are capable of when it comes to handling me! Oh dear, do recall the trousers you are wearing Darcy! He blushed a bit, then sat down again. �Now, shall we return to our conversation?�
�Excellent idea. Of what were we speaking?�
�I believe you were telling my how agreeable I am. You are free to continue on that vein if you wish.� Elizabeth smiled demurely.
�Actually, sir, I was quite done with that line of thinking. I believe you were speaking when we were interrupted. Something about your teeth, perhaps?�
�If you really wish to hear of my dental practices, Miss Bennet, I shall enlighten you, but I do not think��
�No, Mr. Darcy,� she laughed, �we were speaking of your smile; you said you were in a particularly good disposition today��
�Ah, yes, well� the weather is so fine, and the ball was lovely, and I believe Bingley�s good humor was infectious this morning�� he replied, stuttering. She raised an eyebrow.
�Those sound like relatively mundane pleasures to me Mr. Darcy. In me they would certainly not produce an unshakeable smile, and I believe that I smile much more easily than you!� Seeing the serious look in his eye, she turned her head, fearing that she had said too much, been too impertinent. Things were going so well, and I had to push him. Excellent work Lizzy! After a moment of thought, she spoke again. �Excuse me Mr. Darcy, sometimes my tongue leaps ahead of my judgment. I should not speak so, it was very impertinent. Excuse me�� She stood to leave, but he reached for her hand.
�Miss Bennet, please do not make yourself uneasy. Your words do not offend. What you say is true� you do smile much more often that I do. However, your smiles, I think, are quite infectious; each time I see one, I have to smile myself. And as for mundane pleasures, well, a man in my condition tends to see even small joys in a new light.� She looked at him in surprise. He still held her hand, and he seemed to be implying something much deeper in his eyes than his words expressly revealed. Darcy could not long withstand her penetrating gaze and looked away as he dropped her hand. �Excuse me� I have stayed too long and said too much. Perhaps I should return to Netherfield��
�But Mr. Darcy, are you not staying here to dine with us? I hope I have not offended you in any way.�
�No, not at all. I am the one who has been too forward.� He blushed. Oh my, he needs to stop looking so darling all the time.
�I do not follow you sir. I have seen no impropriety in your behavior. You have no need to apologize, and certainly no need to leave, I assure you.� Her manner was so innocent, sweet and pleading, Darcy could not help but relax and smile.
�Thank you Miss Bennet, that is very comforting. Everything is going so well, and I would not wish to ruin anything with my poor manners and ungentlemanlike behavior,� he winked. Before she could reply, he hastily said, �Shall we back to the house for dinner?� He offered his arm and she took it, and they walked back to Longbourne together.
Meanwhile in Meryton�
Darcy? DARCY?? At Longbourne! What the deuce is Darcy doing at Longbourne? I told Elizabeth my story, she seemed to believe me, yet days later she is dancing four dances with him at a ball and talking with him in her garden! And she mentioned Georgiana� is it possible that she knows? That Darcy TOLD her the truth?
Wickham�s thoughts were somewhat frantic since leaving Longbourne. Elizabeth had certainly implied that she knew about the Georgiana fiasco, and if she knew that she certainly knew the rest. And if Darcy had told one person, he might be inclined to tell more.
�Damn!� he yelled, pounding a fist on the table in his room. With Darcy around, he could hardly hope to seduce Elizabeth as he had been planning. She had been wrapped around his finger, but now� He grumbled and cursed his fate for several minutes longer, then headed to the nearest pub to drown his sorrows.
At Netherfield�
Caroline Bingley was not in a good mood. She had been contemplating Darcy�s note, and the more she thought, the worse she felt. The image of him dancing again and again with Eliza Bennet burned in her memory, and the fact that he had gone to Longbourne only increased her sense of dread. She dared not vocalize her feelings to Louisa, but her pensiveness drew her sister�s attention.
�Caroline, you have not said two words together since reading Mr. Darcy�s letter. What on earth are you about?� She had a good idea what her sister was �about�, but she felt she should at least ask.
�Oh, I suppose I am just tired Louisa. I did not sleep very well last night, and with a nearly empty house, I fear that I am terribly bored!� She smiled weakly, hoping to fool her sister. The lie failed, but Louisa pretended to believe her.
�Why don�t you go back to your room and lie down, sister? I will call you down for dinner.�
�I think I shall; yes, yes, I think I shall. Thank you Louisa.� Caroline stood up quickly, surreptitiously pocketing Darcy�s letter in the process. She hastened up the stairs and threw herself on her bed. Oh Fitzwilliam, she thought, fingering the letter, will you never notice me? She sighed with as much emotion as she had probably ever felt, then rolled over and cried herself to sleep.
Several hours later, Caroline Bingley descended the stairs of Netherfield Hall, all traces of tears and emotion gone from her face. It had not seemed possible, but her face had become even colder and haughtier than before. She had fully recovered any ego that may have been lost, and resolved even more strongly to fight the upstart pretentions of that country nobody. Fitzwilliam Darcy will be mine! Nothing will prevent me from becoming mistress of Pemberley. Especially not Eliza Bennet!
Three miles down the road�
Elizabeth and Darcy returned to the house to find a huge commotion. Mrs. Bennet�s shrieks and squeals could be heard all over the house, but from what Elizabeth could tell, they were at least positive. Hill came briskly past them, and Elizabeth stopped her to ask what was going on.
�Why, ma�am, Mr. Collins has just proposed to Miss Mary, and she has accepted him. Mrs. Bennet is in a most joyful state, and Mr. Collins is telling everyone how he is the happiest of men, and everything is just in an uproar. I am gone to fetch Mrs. Bennet�s smelling salts, for she fears she may faint with joy.� Lizzy and Darcy tried to suppress their laughter until Hill had run up the stairs.
�Mr. Darcy, I have to thank you for your help in diverting Mr. Collins� attention to Mary. I believe they will be very happy, as will my mother!� He laughed.
�Indeed, it is my opinion that this situation has worked out in everyone�s best interests.� Especially my own, he silently added. �Perhaps I should go offer him my congratulations?� he winked.
�Oh, please do, I am anxious to hear about how his noble patroness Lady Catherine DeBourgh will feel about this match!� The two of them went to the drawing room, where Mr. Collins and Mary stood close together. They quickly separated, blushing, when they heard the door. Mr. Collins smiled broadly when he saw Mr. Darcy and approached him eagerly.
�Mr. Darcy, how wonderful to see you. I was hoping to see you soon so I could impart my good news. You see before you the happiest of men; my lovely cousin Mary has consented to be my wife.� He gazed back at his �beloved�, who blushed demurely. Darcy and Elizabeth were both taken aback by the change in Mary; she seemed almost glowing! As much as it disgusted them, Mary truly seemed to be in love with Mr. Collins. Well, at least she will be happy with him. Which is more than I can say for anyone else in this world, I am sure! Lizzy thought. Darcy saw fit to reply to Mr. Collins.
�Yes, sir, I heard the news as I entered the house. You are a very fortunate man, and as I said before, have made an excellent choice. If you wish, I can write to Lady Catherine myself with the news.� Mr. Collins� eyes widened at this gracious condescension from the great man.
�Sir, you do me such a great honor. I am most grateful for your warm condescension and kindness. It is obvious to me that Lady Catherine��
�Yes, yes, well, I had better get to writing that letter. Congratulations again, sir, and to you Miss Bennet.� Darcy bowed and left the room. Elizabeth stayed a bit longer to offer slightly more familial congratulations, then followed Darcy. She found him chatting amiably with her father in his library, and she smiled. So he is already getting along with Papa? This is most interesting. She approached.
�Ah, Lizzy, come here. I was just talking with your friend Mr. Darcy, here. He is a very amusing chap; I wonder that you have not brought him around before!� She laughed.
�I apologize, sir, but I did not know he was an amusing chap until very recently.�
�Well, well, let us just make up for lost time then. Come, I wish to see this letter that you will write on behalf of Mr. Collins!� The three of them amused themselves for the next half hour writing the most pretentious letter they could; needless to say, Mr. Collins was very pleased, and Darcy assured them that Lady Catherine would be equally gratified. Dinner at Longbourne was a very happy event on the 27th of November.
At the Bingley townhouse�
Charles Bingley paced back and forth in his room. He had the jewels for Jane, most importantly the heirloom ring his mother had given him for his future bride; he had told his staff to begin planning for the arrival of a new mistress to the house; and he had spoken to his attorney about the marriage settlement. This last article was the only one that troubled him. Bainbridge had said that he may need at least another day to prepare everything, and Bingley did not wish to wait so long. He reluctantly agreed to wait, since he really could not avoid it. I wonder if Jane misses me as much as I miss her. What an angel she is. Restless, he decided to call his carriage and go to the club for some pool and conversation to pass the time. He was greeted by some friends and ordered a drink when he arrived, but he had hardly had time to sit down with a newspaper when he overheard a conversation going on near him.
�You�re from Hertfordshire, aren�t you Webb? Do you know these Bennets?� Bingley was suddenly all ears.
�Yes, I lived there several years ago, when the Bennet ladies were younger; there are five of them, I believe, all lovely. This Collins fellow is a lucky man.�
�That�s what I hear. I have heard from another friend of mine in that part of the country, and he said the engagement is the talk of the county. Apparently he is connected to the DeBourgh family of Kent, so this is a fortuitous match for a Bennet girl to make.� Bingley heard no more of the conversation; he had thrown down his newspaper and ran outside to his carriage. Without thinking, he told the driver to take him Netherfield. His mind was in a frantic state. No, please do not let it be true! Jane cannot be engaged to someone else!
PART IV
Bingley�s thoughts were in absolute turmoil as his carriage hastened into Hertfordshire. My Jane, engaged to another man? This cannot be� I must prevent this somehow! The carriage was about to turn down the lane leading to Netherfield when Bingley yelled out to the driver to take him to Longbourne instead. He had no plan of what to do or say; he just knew that he had to get to Jane immediately, while he still had a chance to win her love. The carriage pulled in front of Longbourne and Bingley jumped out and ran towards the door, nearly crashing into a confused Darcy.
�Charles! What are you doing here? I thought you were in town!�
�No time to explain Darcy. I have to get in the house!� Bingley ran past his friend and into Longbourne. The first person he saw was the unfortunate Mr. Collins. Bingley�s eyes flashed dangerously.
�Ah, Mr. Bingley! I understood you were still in town. How lovely to see you! I wonder if you have yet heard the wondrous news about Miss Bennet and myself. Indeed, you must have, for Mr. Darcy himself showed me the most gracious condescension by sending the announcement into the papers! It is most�� Mr. Collins was interrupted when Bingley roughly grabbed his collar and pushed him to the nearest wall.
�Yes, Collins, I heard your news, and I rushed right here to tell you that this marriage cannot happen! You cannot have her! She is mine! I went to London to get my affairs together to propose; I am gone two days and I learn that another man has beaten me to it! No, sir, I will NOT let you take my beloved Jane away from me!�
�Jane?� replied a confused Mr. Collins in a choked voice. �Sir, I do not have to pleasure of understanding you. I have no intention of marrying my cousin Jane.� Much to Collins� relief, Bingley released his grip.
�What?�
�I said, sir, that I have no intention of marrying Miss Jane. I am engaged to Miss Mary Bennet, not Miss Jane. There must have been some mistake in your information. Perhaps a misunderstanding? As the honorable Lady Catherine DeBourgh says�� But the rest of this speech was wasted on Bingley. He staggered away from Mr. Collins in utter confusion. Collins isn�t marrying Jane� but what about the men in the club? He slapped his forehead as he realized that the men had not actually specified which Miss Bennet had gotten engaged; he had just assumed that it would have been Jane. What stupid presumption! Now I am sure she will never have me, once she learns what an idiot I am! Defeated, he began walking back towards his carriage. Darcy, standing in the doorway, stopped his progress.
�Bingley, what was that display?� Darcy asked with concern. Bingley sighed.
�Darce, I am a great fool. This morning I heard two gentlemen at the club discussing the engagement of a Miss Bennet from Hertfordshire. I did not stop to think that it might be another Miss Bennet; I simply assumed that another admirer had beaten me to the proposal and that Jane had accepted because she thought I had abandoned her.� Darcy would have teased him, but the dejected look on his friend�s face prevented it. He simply placed a reassuring hand on Bingley�s shoulder.
�Bingley, I am sorry you had to go through that agony, even for a short while. But think on the bright side; I know for a fact that Miss Jane is not engaged, and eagerly awaits your return.� Bingley smiled weakly, then frowned again.
�I am sure she will not have me when she learns of my stupid behavior towards her poor cousin.� Darcy laughed.
�On the contrary, she will probably be flattered by your devotion and find it adorable or some such nonsense.� Bingley finally managed a grin.
�Perhaps.� They stood in silence for a few moments, until Bingley turned a questioning glance to his friend. �Actually Darcy, what are you doing here at Longbourne?� It was now Darcy�s turn to be discomfited.
�Well� I called the day after the ball as you asked, and was invited to dinner. At dinner, Mr. Bennet invited me to shoot with him the following day, so I called yesterday. Today I was invited to tea.� Bingley was shocked.
�You mean that you have spent everyday here since my departure? With Mrs. Bennet?� Darcy laughed.
�No, not exactly. Yesterday I was mostly in the company of Mr. Bennet, and I have spent most of the rest of the time with Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth.� His slight blush and turn of countenance at the mention of this last name did not go unnoticed by Charles.
�Well, that certainly shows a change of heart from your earlier assessment of Hertfordshire society,� replied Bingley with an amused air.
�Yes, well� perhaps I have grown accustomed to it.�
�Mr. Bingley!� Both gentlemen�s heads were turned at the sound. Elizabeth Bennet came into view with a bright smile, followed closely by Jane. When Jane saw Mr. Bingley, her face brightened considerably, tinged with a slight blush and a modest smile. Their eyes met and it was all he could do to keep from proposing on the spot. After warm greetings between them, Elizabeth turned to Bingley�s taller friend.
�Hello Mr. Darcy. I am glad you are to have tea with us.�
�As am I Miss Bennet,� he replied with a courteous bow and a grin. Now Bingley was really surprised; Darcy had laughed and smiled multiple times in the few minutes since Bingley�s arrival, and seemed downright jovial. Perhaps this has something to do with another of the Miss Bennets� Elizabeth and Darcy entered the house without another thought of their companions, left standing in front of the door. Bingley turned to Jane nervously.
�Miss Bennet.� He greeted with a bow and warm smile.
�Mr. Bingley. How lovely to see you.� Her cheeks were entirely crimson now and her smile was broader. What a darling angel! Oh, to have her be mine always� �Shall we go inside? I don�t believe tea is ready yet, but we can wait in the drawing room.�
�Actually Miss Bennet, I should like to take a turn in the garden before we go in, if that is agreeable to you.� She nodded and they made their way to the garden. Both were growing exceedingly nervous, but Bingley knew he had to get his courage up. Remember how you felt when you thought someone else had beaten you to it! He stopped walking and cleared his throat.
�Miss Bennet, I have something very particular to speak to you about. I�that is, you� no, I mean�Miss Bennet, since first we met, I have thought you to be the loveliest, sweetest, most angelic creature of my acquaintance. I would be most honored if you would agree to be my wife.� Jane was breathless; her eyes, glistening with tears, rose to meet his as he took her hand and softly kissed it.
�Yes, Mr. Bingley, I would be very happy to marry you, for I too love you very dearly!� she replied softly. Bingley�s face immediately broke into a large smile. They gazed at each other for a few moments, then he leaned down and gave her a gentle kiss. The happy couple walked back into the house, where Bingley immediately sought out Mr. Bennet to secure his approval. Several minutes later, the two gentlemen returned to the drawing room to impart the happy news. While everyone celebrated and congratulated the newly-betrothed, Darcy gazed at Elizabeth. He could not help but see the joy on his friend�s face, a joy that can come only from loving and being loved. Darcy longed to feel that joy as well, and he felt that he was certainly well on his way to loving; but was he loved? Only time would tell.
Elizabeth discreetly watched Mr. Darcy�s actions through the effusions of joy, and realized that he was staring at her the entire time. She imagined herself in her sister�s place, and where at one time she had briefly envisioned Mr. Wickham, she know saw Mr. Darcy. Mr. Darcy proposing; Mr. Darcy proclaiming his love for her� Their eyes met briefly, and his countenance lit up when he saw the affectionate smile playing on her lips. Then her attention was turned by one of her sisters, and the moment was over. But it was there, he thought. For one splendid moment� Full of happiness, Darcy finally took his turn to congratulate the bride and groom to be.
In a tavern in Meryton�
Wickham was not in quite the joyous mood felt by the inhabitants of Longbourne. He was swimming in debt and beginning to be hounded by his creditors again, and he had been in a drunken stupor since the meeting with Darcy and Elizabeth. Blast that Darcy! I might have been enjoying Elizabeth�s favors by now if not for him. I cannot believe he told her of his sister! He must fancy her greatly to tell her of such private matters. Staring into the bottom of his empty mug, Wickham suddenly had a terrible idea. Darcy hates me more than anyone. It seems too late to get Elizabeth, but if I were to seduce one of the sisters, their family name would be ruined and he would have nothing to do with them. Yes, then he and Elizabeth would pay for slighting me! He chuckled at his own cleverness. Now it is only a matter of choosing the sister!
Loud laughter from the street interrupted his reverie. He looked out the window to see Lydia and Kitty Bennet walking towards their Aunt Phillips� house. His lips curled into an evil grin; he paid his bill, straightened out his coat, and stepped outside just in time to nearly run right into Lydia. She pushed him playfully and laughed.
�Wickham! How lovely to see you! We were just on our way to see Aunt Phillips and share the happy news!� He smiled his most charming smile.
�Ladies, it is always a pleasure. What happy news do you have, or is it a family secret?�
�No secret at all! You know that my sister Mary was just engaged to that nasty Mr. Collins, and now we have another sister engaged!� His countenance changed ever so slightly, but fortunately for him the girls did not notice. Good God, Darcy works quickly! Proposed to Elizabeth already? Lydia continued. �This very morning, Mr. Bingley came and proposed to Jane!� Wickham smiled widely again.
�That is happy news indeed! Please send my congratulations to your sister. I must admit that I am relieved that it wasn�t one of you; I believe I would have broke my heart.� He winked and grinned wickedly. Kitty blushed, but Lydia took this comment as incentive to flirt right back.
�Not to worry Mr. Wickham. I believe I would never accept a proposal unless it came from a man in a redcoat. I can�t imagine falling in love with someone who is not an officer!�
�I am glad to hear it Miss Bennet. You won�t find better husband elsewhere, I am quite sure.� He paused to give her a meaningful look. �But, I had best not detain you from your visit. I am sure your aunt will want to hear the news as well. Send her my best.� He bowed.
�Thank you Mr. Wickham. We hope to see you soon!� With that the girls ran off the their destination, giggling and whispering along the way. Well� Lydia Bennet it shall be then! he thought as he turned in the opposite direction.
Meanwhile, at Netherfield�
Caroline Bingley was a very unhappy woman. She had done her best to keep Darcy at Netherfield, but kept insisting on going to Longbourne. For the third straight day he had called there, and still had not returned. The ladies had also been invited to tea, but Mr. Hurst had absolutely refused to go, and Louisa had begged Caroline to stay. Darcy insisted that they need not trouble themselves, and had practically run out the door to his waiting horse. Now Caroline was terribly bored, and quite put out. She had half-read nearly every book in the library, played on the pianoforte, and taken enough turns about the room to feel thoroughly refreshed, but still could not prevent the boredom. She threw herself down on a sofa.
�Louisa, can we not go to London?� she whined. Suddenly she sat up and her face lit up. �Perhaps we can keep Charles there and he will not return to propose to Jane!� Louisa was intrigued by the idea.
�That is quite a thought Caroline. Let us speak to Darcy about it when he returns!�
�Yes, but we cannot mention that motive. He is apparently in favor of this match, so we cannot let him know that the reason for the trip is to stop it. We will just tell him that we�re bored with Hertfordshire and wish to go to town. And if all of his hosts are gone, he cannot very well stay on here!� She smiled malevolently. And then he won�t be able to see his precious Eliza! Their attention was turned by the sound of voices and footsteps down the hall. �Who could that be? Did Darcy bring someone back with him?� At that moment, Darcy and Bingley walked in and greeted the ladies. Caroline jumped to her feet.
�Charles! I did not expect you back so soon! Did you conclude all of your business?� He smiled sheepishly.
�Well, not quite all of it, but it is nearly done, and I decided to come down to Netherfield for the day. I shall return to London briefly tomorrow to finish, and I will hopefully be back here day after tomorrow.� Darcy laughed.
�Yes, I doubt you could bear to stay away longer than that.� Bingley joined in his laughter, temporarily leaving his sisters out of the joke. He remembered himself quickly and turned to the ladies.
�Oh, Caroline, Louisa, I have some wonderful news!� Caroline groaned inwardly. Oh no, has he done it already? �Today I have asked Miss Jane Bennet to be my wife and she has accepted me!� The ladies exchanged a glance, considered a protest, but thought better of it. Instead, they smiled and congratulated their brother with as false and exuberant joy as they were able to convey. Darcy rolled his eyes, but decided that at least they were not arguing with the decision, although he knew he would probably hear of it later. The remainder of the evening passed relatively pleasantly, but Bingley retired before the rest, as he was to depart for town early the next day. Darcy was about to take his leave as well when Caroline called him over.
�Oh Mr. Darcy, come and talk with me for a while!� she cooed. �We have not had much time lately.� He sighed and turned to her.
�Indeed, Miss Bingley, it has been a busy day today.� Her face soured. Oh no, here it comes.
�Yes, busy it was. I can�t say I�m utterly thrilled by the events of the day, though.�
�You certainly seemed happy when your brother told you the news.� Her face colored slightly.
�Well, I didn�t feel it was the right time to tell him of my doubts. I am happy that he has found joy, and Jane is a dear, sweet girl; but I can�t be as happy with the situation of her family. And her mother!� she laughed. Ugh, what a sickening laugh you have Caroline. Not nearly so pleasant as Elizabeth�s. Sensing that she had lost his attention, Caroline made a direct attack. �And then there are her sisters, especially Eliza.� His eyes were turned to hers again; she smiled. �I must confess, I never saw much beauty in her face. She is outdoors far too much I think. And she has a self-sufficiency without fashion that I find intolerable. Quite the opposite from her mild and proper elder sister. It is hard to believe that they are even related.� Darcy�s anger was raised, but he managed to stay perfectly polite.
�Actually, they are really very similar when you talk to them. Miss Elizabeth is certainly more fiery, but she and her sister share similar views and ideals. I certainly find them to be two of the most pleasant women of my acquaintance,� he said coolly. �Now if you will excuse me, Miss Bingley, I am also going to retire. I wish to see Charles off in the morning. Good night madam, Mr. Hurst, Mrs. Hurst.� He bowed and swiftly walked out of the room, leaving Caroline speechless.