Posted on: 2010-12-12
Mrs. Bennet stood impatiently in the small hallway waiting. Mr. Collins had requested a private audience with Elizabeth some ten minutes ago and silence had ensued over Longbourn. The aging lady paced slowly to and fro, stopping every few paces to take a listen at the door. She bit her nails when she yet again heard no noise. What on earth could be happening, Mr. Collins after all this time cannot indeed be a…romantic?
Then as if the world was just setting off in motion, the door was flung open and Elizabeth ran out towards the front door, not stopping to listen to her mother's cries. Mrs. Bennet knew all too well what her insolent second daughter had done. In her opinion it was all over, Lizzy had ruined them all! What was to become of them all?
She turned slowly and her flabbergasted face rested on the form that was Mr. Collins. He stood frozen still, feet nailed to the floor holding a small bushel of withering daisies between to fingers. It appeared that Mr. Collins had underestimated the female character. Yes he had severely underestimated Elizabeth's "Modesty" and her "Natural delicacy." Mrs. Bennet knocked slowly, not wanting to disturb his reverie. It was not the knocking that disturbed Mr. Collins' hateful thoughts, but the chirping noise of two giggling girls being pushed firmly into a separate room – and then scolded by the eldest Miss Bennet. He looked at Mrs. Bennet and sighed.
"My daughter has…" She daren't say it. She felt a fit of a nervous disposition coming on fast. She rested against the door as her chest tightened.
"Refused my offer of marriage" He muttered darkly, turning to the window, pacing across the room to get a better view of Lizzy running away from the house, towards the small pond, towards the 'free' world.
Mrs. Bennet forced a smile which seemed more like a grimace in the eyes of the clergyman.
"Oh Mr. Collins do not be vexed. I shall go out this very moment and find Elizabeth! She shall come back and marry you sure enough! I am sure, she was just dazed by your declaration"
Turning sharply she ran towards the open doorway
"LIZZY!" Cried she, her voice shrill her face distressed. Her cries raised the whole household, chickens flapped, and all sorts of animals whined. She lumbered off in the general direction that her daughter had escaped to. "Selfish child! Come back here this instance"
Some pleasant distance from Longbourn Elizabeth Bennet stopped running for a moment. She must have almost run half a mile and the warm October's air wasn't helping her complexion. Her pale cheeks were not a deep red and some of her curls were stuck to her forehead from a thin layer of perspiration. She was quite determined never to return home. Not as long as that man remained a guest. How blinded he had been and how insurmountable the notion was that he has allowed himself to believe – for even a moment – that she would even consider becoming his wife! It was an insult! Lizzy was certain any moment she would hear footsteps coming after her, but she couldn't move, she couldn't breathe. Placing her hands on her hips she tried to take deep breaths as she looked up to the cloudless sky. Damnable beautiful sky, you have no worries or obligations, but I am most surely not going to fulfil mine.
She reckoned she could hear quick strides approaching from around the small path bend, not sure from which direction, and panic gripping her once more she stumbled forward and gasped quickly as she fell against a firm – but warm – chest. At once she felt herself tumble; a pair of strong arms gripped her firmly and set her back on her feet. Letting her heart settle for a moment she looked up into their face.
"Mr Darcy!"
The second to last man she cared about or wanted to see stood before her a little dazed. Mr. Darcy looked down with increasing concern. He noted that Miss. Bennet looked beautiful if not a little flushed and exhausted. She took a firm step away from him and curtseyed in one flowing movement. Darcy returned the acknowledgement in a deep sincere bow. There was an awkward pause, the only noise being Elizabeth's breath slowly returning to normal. Finally Darcy drew in the breath to speak.
"Miss. Bennet, are you well?"
"Yes sir, quite well. Thank you" She said quickly, and then looked around her cautiously.
If Mr. Darcy had not known her better he would have truly believed her to be cracked. She stood looking about her as if wolves would jump out of the shrubbery; he found it all rather endearing – if not mildly amusing.
"May I enquire to what you are doing?" He asked quietly, watching her with an exceedingly pointed gaze. She didn't want to look to his dark illustrious eyes. What on earth could Mr. Darcy want? And why was he walking in the direction of Longbourn without Mr. Bingley? Even I should not want him to suffer the demeaning comments of my mother…
"I am taking a walk sir" She replied quickly, trying at least to act cheerful. She looked in his general direction and settled for his lips. A mistake, a bigger one then she could have imagined. Mr. Darcy had seen her fine eyes gazing intently on his lips and his heart swelled furiously.
"A walk? Excuse my bluntness, but for a moment it looked like you were…" He was interrupted mid sentence by a cry of Lizzy's name from a most distraught Mrs. Bennet. Only then did Lizzy turn her eyes to the gentleman's.
"Please do not say I was here" She pleaded before running off down the path again. She shuddered violent at the fact she had pleaded with the proud and insufferable gentleman. Darcy watched her go with a faint smile on his face before the pants of one Mrs. Bennet drew too close. More then willing to keep her plea he turned on the path in time to see Mrs. Bennet waddle along the path, bright red in the face. Almost collapsing from exhaustion.
"Oh! Mr. Darcy! What a surprise to see you here" Mr. Darcy bowed slowly and wondered what on earth could be going on. It was a rare sight to see country women run. Wouldn't they much rather a man carries them on the pretence of a false promise?
"Mrs. Bennet" Said he, in a conversational tone.
"Excuse me sir. Have you seen our Lizzy? Oh my nerves how they suffer" With the latter she clutched her chest as if she were to succumb to a fit of the nervous disposition.
"No, madam, I must confess I have not…but I may ask, can I be of some assistance? Would you like me to guide you to that tree yonder?" He gestured left towards a bench under a shady oak. Mrs. Bennet flushed and almost swooned. Never in all her years had a man so rich – and handsome – paid her so much attention. At no cost was she going to live down the opportunity.
"No, sir. I thank you but I am quite alright. Pray, may I just lean on your arm for support?" Her playful eyes found his brown ones. Darcy clenched his jaw, his mouth shut in a tight line as he gave Mrs. Bennet his arm. She leant her whole weight against him, Darcy wanted to run and hide and never return. After a moment of uncomfortable silence Darcy found the words to speak.
"May I ask why you are in urgent need of Miss. Elizabeth?"
"Oh Mr. Darcy! What ever shall I do with that girl? Mr. Collins proposed to Elizabeth just this morning!"
"Proposed, as in the marriage kind?" Darcy's mind brought him a picture of that snivelling man. He hated the very thought of Elizabeth, of his Elizabeth belonging to a man like Mr. Collins – It disgusted him. Disgusted, then surly a fine gentleman should be disgusted about a woman being forced in some way of another into marrying a man she does not love…
"The very kind!" Cried she, tightening her grip of Mrs. Bennet's arm.
"Pray, what happened? What was her verdict? Did she…" He didn't even want to consider that thought.
"No" She replied harshly "Lizzy has sworn she will not have him, and the worry is he may not want to marry Lizzy after this. I must find her and bring her back to him or we are all in ruin! This will be a scandal some sorts, Mr. Darcy. But alas, fortunately I know I can trust you to bare our secret can I not?" He nodded slowly, and then turned his head in the direction of the path that the young Miss. Bennet disappeared down.
"Marry Miss. Elizabeth" Then to himself "This is grave indeed"
"Please excuse me Mrs. Bennet, but your daughter went off in that direction" He pointed down the path. Quite forgetting only a moment ago he swore he hadn't seen her daughter she let go of his arm quickly. He tipped his hat quickly: "Good day Mrs. Bennet. I fear I must speak with Mr. Bennet immediately" Without further word of warning he turned as the dark figure was striding quickly" Without further word of warning he turned as the dark figure was striding quickly in the direction of Longbourn.
As he carried on his walked towards Longbourn, Darcy was lost in his thoughts. He remembered the two women's expressions and countenance. The jumpy form of Miss. Elizabeth and the old determined flirt that was Mrs. Bennet. Why was she so keen on marrying off her second daughter, when she should know; she must know the attraction of Bingley to Miss. Bennet, yes he had overhead many a conversation on that very topic. Then why is she so set on Mr. Collins marrying Elizabeth. Surly his attraction isn't so deep that he could be swayed into picked one of the other three.
Even as the gentleman approached the house he could hear the uproar from inside. A set of giggles, and as he approached the house he saw Jane sitting on the stone steps – obviously waiting for the return of her sister.
"Miss. Bennet!" said he, with a radiant smile lightly the corners of his mouth. Jane looked up and returned the gentleman's smile.
"Mr. Darcy! What a pleasure, and are you well, sir?" Even though her voice was kind as usual, her quick glance in search for his friend did not go amiss.
"I am sorry to inform you Bingley journeyed to town today, but he shall be home by Wednesday" A small blush spread across her cheeks. Darcy dug into one of his pockets and procured a letter. "This is from Caroline, she invites you to dine Thursday eve I suspect" She took it gratefully and she invited him inside.
"To what purpose does your visit bring, Mr Darcy?"
"Nothing to serious, I assure you. And nothing that will disrupt the current…uproar, of the house. I am here to see Mr. Bennet actually" Darcy watched as Misses. Lydia and Kitty rushed past, spotted him and fell into the drawing room with a whoop of laughter.
"Of course" Jane quickly led him down the corridor towards her fathers study, curtseyed quickly and left him. With one sharp knock at the door, he sucked in breath and entered into the unknown.
Elizabeth finally returned home a half hour later. The sun was starting to set rather quickly, and she was getting cold. She crept quietly into the house and immediately bumped into Jane. Jane went to cry out on relief but Lizzy silenced her with a firm hand over her mouth. Then their conversation was conducted in small whispers in the darkening hallway.
"Where is Mr. Collins?" Was Lizzy's first question.
"He was being comforted by our Mother. I think it's fair to say he will not be renewing his addresses towards you. He seems quite indifferent to the whole affair!" Lizzy giggled with relief.
"I saw Mr. Darcy during my escape" She said quite suddenly, disquieting Jane along with herself.
"Yes, he came here. He is still with Papa" Jane admitted slowly, knowing Lizzy's dislike but being fuelled by her own mutual regard.
"With Papa. Good lord, what on earth could he be about?" She whispered, taking a sly glance towards her fathers study down the end of the hall, next to the library where she heard Mr. Collins' dark voice rattle off another sermon.
"I only have one idea. He has come to ask permission to marry one of us" Jane whispered, giving Lizzy a wistful look. Jane knew, even if they didn't want was inevitably going to happen.
"Do not look at me in that way, Jane! He cannot surly want to marry one of us. It is impossible; we are so decidedly belong himself"
As the Miss. Bennet's speculated some more, a more decided conversation was happening in Mr. Bennet's study. One that caused great embarrassment to the younger man.
Elizabeth was silently walking down the stairs with all intention of sneaking something from the kitchen. She was approaching the foot of the staircase where she saw two figures moving in the dim light. On first glance it looked like an embrace, but on closer inspection Elizabeth clearly saw Mr. Darcy press Mr. Collins up close to the wall by his collar, his feet listen clean off the dusty floor and mutter some inaudible words to him. Elizabeth could not hear the words from where the she stood, but she could only guess their gist. For one fleeting moment Elizabeth felt a rush of pride and joy at Mr. Collins terrified face and every tensed muscle in Darcy's body. At that one moment Mr. Darcy's dark figure had been more attractive to her than every moment until then. Then after a small whimper the former was dropped to the floor and the two gentlemen become aware of Miss. Bennet's presence. She stood looking at Mr. Darcy is utter astonishment. Even though Mr. Collins is the most vile of men, what kind of man acts in that way towards their host's family? Darcy nodded his head once then stumbled away into the night, leaving the door open wide behind him.
The whole Bennet family– apart from Mr. Bennet – was greatly vexed, curious, and frustrated at all the events that happened that unmentionable day. Mr. Collins had withdrawn all attentions to Elizabeth and was now searching them elsewhere. Even sweet hearted Jane questioned his depth of feeling, and wondered – secretly – if, ever, Bingley would simply withdraw his affections. Apart from Mr. Bennet, Elizabeth was the only other of the Bennet's to guess why Mr. Collins cowered away from her at every meet. She suspected it had been the doing of Mr. Darcy. Unsure whether to be pleased that he sought out affections somewhere else, or frustrated that Mr. Collins seemed to treat her as an ogre – the only other alternative was to blame the current events on Darcy's other vices.
Mr. Bennet had been uncharacteristically cheerful since Mr. Darcy's and his conversation. The man took great delight in keeping his family in the utmost suspense, nothing more was talked of afterwards apart from Mr. Bennet's singing in the hallways, lively disposition, and on one occasion he ventured out of his library for a whole evening.
According to what Hill informed Mrs. Bennet of, and what she then informed her youngest daughters – because they are the only ones he could be interested in forming an attachment with – Messrs Darcy and Bennet had been seen 'coming out of the library door laughing and shaking hands. It was a most peculiar sight, if you don't mind me saying, that Darcy is supposed to be a most vile creature. But it was like father and son'. Father and son. Those words had no end of affect on Mrs. Bennet for the past few days. Since Mr. Darcy so willingly lent her the use of his arm – she had been a most changed woman. You would have hoped for the better…
Alas, Mrs. Bennet was more silly then her three youngest daughters. Gone were the foreign feelings for a man in regimentals and an easy smile. Her head was full of dark, unruly handsome gentlemen, with dark blue coats and a voice that does things to people.
The constant mention of "Mr. Darcy is…" "Mr. Darcy said…" Had annoyed Elizabeth deeply. She took refuge in her usual haunts – and on many occasion walked further into the evening just to avoid mention of his name. She did not understand what her mother and three younger siblings could find to talk about. Yes, even she must admit, Darcy was handsome; maybe one of the handsomest men in the country. But a good looking face and fine figure could not undo all insults by him against her. The man was proud! His faults were innumerable. She did not understand why, even though he hated the lack of society in the country, he still resided at Netherfield. Why can't he just leave? Why did he talk with my father? For over a half hour? Impossible man!
Jane had indeed dined at Netherfield the night before, and according to their mother he was sure to come and propose any day now. So, it was to no surprise when both gentlemen visited Longbourn the very next day in the afternoon. Mrs. Bennet was sent into another fit, jumping up and then down. Pulling Lydia off to one side, fixing her hair and telling her to charm Mr. Darcy. Lizzy found herself feeling quite sorry for him. Unexpectedly Mr. Bennet sat a while with the whole family – talking in earnest to Mr. Darcy, laughing every now and again and throwing glances at Lizzy. Elizabeth sat by the window, at a loss for conversation as Jane and Bingley had quickly retreated into a private corner. She was annoyed at Mr. Darcy, for she wanted to talk with her father – but certainly wasn't joining his conversation. She looked longingly out of the window and wondered if anyone would truly miss her if she slipped outside for a walk. The only other alternative for conversation was Mary, casting a gaze in Mary's direction she sighed and felt strongly for her sister as she attempted to keep Mr. Collins in conversation, and away from Jane. Dejected Elizabeth turned back to look out of the window. Far away in the distance she could see the small pond, two swans drifted gently across the water. The brook bubbling slowly. The two swans, united forever, passed by in harmony. If only…
Her reflections were ruined suddenly.
"Miss. Bennet" The familiar voice of Mr. Darcy shook her awake; she cast him a less then civil glance. Then she nodded her head in acknowledgement slowly.
"Mr. Darcy" She was at a loss to why he had come all this way to sit by her, maybe he too wanted a view from the window as he so often did. There was a window across from the fireplace, she didn't understand why he didn't just go stand there and remain solemn. Forcing herself to be civil she turned away from the window and sat next to him.
"I am glad to hear you are not to marry your cousin" He started slowly, casting a look towards Mr. Collins. Elizabeth glanced at him with disgust. Why did such a man as he consider the match a bad one. In his opinion, am I in fact not 'tolerable' enough for a man such as Mr. Collins? His words should, would wound me if I did care for Mr. Darcy in the slightest. Mr. Darcy looked to her face when she remained silent and realized her confusion and his fault. He sighed quickly and went to rectify his mistake.
"I did not mean… I only meant, that you have been greatly saved from being presented to Lady Catherine – my aunt" Lizzy's anger was mounting further. Greatly saved? Encase I should embarrass the women? Being presented? What does he think me? A prized chicken? He really has just done me and my family the dishonour of suggesting that I am not worthy of standing before her. And I have been saved from great embarrassment.
In truth. Darcy's motives were in fact the opposite. He was trying to suggest that Lizzy would have been saved embarrassment. But embarrassment that was not insulting, but embarrassment which would be entirely caused by remarks made by his aunt – on any subject – which were very opinionated and wrong.
"Miss. Bennet. I did mean to insult. I only meant that my aunt isn't… Well, my aunt is not easily pleased. Not that you wouldn't please her! I just meant that she is a vile woman and you are just lucky you have escaped her acquaintance…hmm" Mr. Darcy gave up; he daren't talk any longer unless he cause more offence. He turned his head away and coloured considerably.
"It is okay Mr. Darcy. I did not take offence" He said slowly, he nodded his head and coloured further. Elizabeth watched this and smiled slightly. Darcy didn't know what to do. Had he truly just all that to her? Was he dreaming? His heart was beating fast across his chest and he was loosing all intelligent thought. It took everything he possessed to stop his foolish blushing and lift his head again. Once he had regained some composure he looked towards Jane and Bingley in deep discussion.
"I return to town in a few days and Bingley will join me" Said he, Elizabeth refused to look at him, but could tell he was staring at her.
"For how long?"
"I am not sure, it could be all winter" Elizabeth searched over the pairs happy faces, how Jane will suffer if Bingley left for town, and then stayed the whole winter. She had silent suffered and doubted his love when he visited town for a few days. Goodness knows what would happen if he left for a few months.
"All winter. Are you quite determined to ruin their happiness? Dragging him to town with you?" She hadn't meant to say it like that, not so bluntly or so rash. Darcy raised his eyebrows slowly and smiled. He only smiled to mask his quick flowing annoyance. He clenched his fists and wondered who had let this woman grow into a person so rash and quick to insult.
"I have no intention of ruining their happiness. I assure you Miss. Bennet that Mr. Bingley will not depart from town without first…securing his future happiness" With a slight sigh, but still resentment towards the man, she thanked him for the information slowly and they drifted back into silence.
Still silence. Darcy's brain ticked over, striving for something to say.
"How long does Mr. Collins remain at Longbourn?"
"For another week or so. But I shall not be surprised if he leaves before then – after a certain event. It may have scared him away" Darcy laughed to himself and swelled up with his own pride. Indeed he had truly scared Mr. Collins. He had barely looked at him for more then a second without turning pale. Elizabeth rolled her eyes slowly but couldn't deny a small smile of contentment. Still with a smile playing around his lips he turned and leant towards Elizabeth slightly.
"Could he not be persuaded to stay?"
"Stay? Why on earth should he stay?" said she, her voice rising slightly in astonishment.
"Miss. Bennet. For someone I always thought was quite perceptive you have failed to notice your sisters growing attachment to the man" He muttered to her darkly. No longer trying to be nice. Frustrated at the feelings that Mr. Darcy's smile had stirred up inside her and his deep and beautiful scent she replied quickly and harshly once again.
"Which sister, sir. I have many" Not believing Elizabeth to be that blind, and getting tired of her harsh tone, when he had tried very hard to be pleasant, he impatiently replied, his brow knitted – falling back to his old countenance.
"Mary! You cannot be so blind not to notice. It is obvious to the whole room and I would not be surprised if you were the only one not to notice. Mainly because you seek refuge by your window, deep in thoughts about yourself and take no better joy then in speaking most bluntly to people who are trying to be civil!"
"Words from a man who takes pride in his own self centeredness and finds it pleasing to slight other women" She hissed back, the room was falling silent. Calmly Darcy collected himself, stood, not caring about who he disrupted he went and joined Jane and Bingley's conversation.
For some unfathomable reason Mr. Darcy was placed beside Elizabeth at dinner. Luckily Mr. Collins was near by and served all the entertainment for the pair during the evening, so lucky was this that they didn't have to utter a word to each other for the best part of two courses. The only conversation they had was the silent type. A quick glace when they heard – or felt – suppressed laughter coming from the other.
After dinner, and after the four gentlemen had rejoined the party Mr. Bennet called Elizabeth to one side and beckoned her to follow him to his study. She shut the door, and as instructed settled himself in the warm armchair by the dull fire. Mr. Bennet stood looking into the warm flames and was an image of solemnity. Lizzy turned her eyes towards her father and saw a slight tear in the corner of one eye.
"Papa, what is it? Are you unwell?"
"No, my dear. I am fine, just a little sad is all"
"Sad. What has made you so?"
"Oh, it is just the conversation Mr. Darcy and I had yesterday" Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth knew all along that he brings nothing but pain and hatred. First scaring her cousin and now doing this to her own father. This was proof enough of the mans character and unjust manners. She would throw him from the house, if she had the authority. Hang it all! I am going to throw him from the house already.
"Mr. Darcy?" Mr. Bennet turned to his daughter and laughed at her tone.
"Oh Lizzy! He hasn't upset me in anyway, I assure you. I will just be sad to be parted from you. I must tell you everything now my dear. It was been tortuous hiding it from you these past days, but it was at the request of Mr. Darcy"
"Father, I don't understand, please tell me" Elizabeth was gripped with panic. She was used to her father's peculiar ways, but after Mr. Darcy slighting her she didn't see what the man could possibly have to say to her own father. Especially in concern of the daughter he holds most highly.
"I will tell you, but I must start from the very beginning"
"Very well" Lizzy whispered, her chest tightened. She didn't know what could be expected anymore, the events of the past few days had confused and vexed her exceedingly. Mr. Bennet settled down in the chair adjacent to her and began:
"As you will know, I am the third son of three. When I was young my father sent me away to live with my childless uncle in Surrey. There I was raised properly, given a good education and when I was old enough I attended Oxford. In my first year I met a man who was the epitome of a gentleman. He was two years older then me, but seemed so many more in wisdom, looks and character. His name was James Darcy. Mr. Darcy's father, yes. We became instant friends and it was during our friendship that my uncle passed away.
"I had been intended his estate on his death, but alas, during the last years of his life he had started gambling and I had no other choice but to sell the house in order to pay the debts. I now had no support, no home, and no family I was still in contact with. James Darcy out of the goodness of his heart offered me a home. He bought this farm and gave me a small amount of money to get it up and running. James Darcy was the greatest man I have ever met – Mr. Darcy is so much like him, in ways you haven't seen yet.
"James offered me all this under one condition. When he produces an heir, that heir would then marry my eldest daughter – if I had one. Well I had five, so we had no trouble there. I accepted the condition happily; I would be content to have seen any of my daughters married to a son of his. Now we are at this stage. When Mr. Darcy and Bingley arrived in Hertfordshire, it was obvious to all that Mr. Bingley and Jane quickly formed an attachment. Mr. Darcy – being the true gentleman that he is told me that he would not marry Jane; he would not ruin the lives of his best friend and my daughter. But, he did ask for a choice of another daughter. I granted him that choice, and without further warning he quickly choose you and swore to have only you.
"It may be because you are the second eldest, I do not know. But I truly believe he picked you because he likes you above the rest. My Elizabeth, you must understand that you do not have to accept this man, but if you don't, the condition is broken and I must pay back all the money that James Darcy once leant me. However, if you do accept I am definite that Mr. Darcy will be a most devoted husband, any fool can see he likes you. I possibly couldn't have parted you with anyone less worthy"
Thus, Mr. Bennet was silent and took a sip of his wine and looked deeply into the fire.
Elizabeth was too stunned for words. She understood everything perfectly now. For once in her life she wished she had accepted Mr. Collins, at least then she would never have to look at Darcy's face again! She battled her thoughts and everything led to one conclusion. She must marry Mr. Darcy! Her father couldn't pay back all the money leant to him by a great friend and gentleman – however dead that man was. She took a sharp inhale of breath and turned to her father, finding for the first time in her life she was angry with him.
"Well, now I understand! Excuse me, I need some air"
"Lizzy stay a minute longer. I think you…"
"How can you possibly know what I think when I do not even know anymore!" Cried she, loudly. She was quite sure that the whole house had heard. Without further warning she stood and ran towards the door. She flung it open then continued to the front door. There were cries behind her and for the second time this week Lizzy ran away from the farm.
Hot tears streamed down her face as she ran blindly through the darkening air. She did not know where she was heading, she cared even less. If she was to marry Mr. Darcy she would rather die! I hate him, I detest him, I never want to see him or hear his voice…
"Miss. Bennet" It was Mr. Darcy. He had chased after her through the small garden and now had a hand on her shoulder. She stopped running and bent her head trying to mask her tears. He stared at her in the dark as she started to shiver. A great heart wrenching sob revealed to him her true distress. He pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and handed it gingerly to her. She wiped her eyes and turned her fact to him. Her cheeks tear stained and her eyes red.
"I have…heard…about the…agreement" She gasped out between sobs. Darcy nodded and with greatest care removed his coat and drooped it around her shoulders.
"Then you know the conditions, you know my choice?" He whispered as she wrapped the warmth around her, scarcely aware it was his own coat.
"Did you choose me because you could not have Jane?" She asked him suddenly, like a jealous lover would. Darcy's heart skipped a beat. Was she a jealous lover?
"Yes, well no! That was not the only reason… I would have requested… I would have changed the deal so as to have you even if Bingley and Jane detested each other"
Silence. Then:
"If you know the terms, am I right in thinking that you will marry me?"
"Yes sir. But under one of my own conditions?"
"Anything, Elizabeth. I would give you anything"
"Then I wish that the marriage is in name only"
Darcy's hear wrenched further, almost daring to be ripped from his chest. He looked to her face with regret before muttering.
"Of course, Miss. Bennet"
Posted on: 2011-03-07
Darcy had been true to his word about Bingley and desperately delayed Bingley and his departure to London. He had used every excuse in the book, from a startling head ache, and even went to the extreme of dropping to his knees and begging Bingley not to make him leave 'his Elizabeth' quite yet.
Bingley however, had no intention of leaving for London so soon but didn't tell Darcy this. He found enjoyment in the excuses that Darcy spewed out daily. The excuse about his undying love for Miss. Elizabeth had amused him greatly. Bingley was not a fool and could see that there was no true joy in the match. Elizabeth was often reserved and indifferent and Darcy often stood looking longingly out of a window like a reserved puppy. So, Bingley's consolation was to make Darcy suffer for two weeks up until the day that he planned to propose to Jane.
Mrs Bennet had been utterly thrilled at the match and could be heard praising Mr. Darcy every minute of every day. She was often in Meryton parading around with her handsome son-in-law to be hanging off her arm. Darcy bared it with mild indifference. He was used to the stares after all, the looks of shock from the gossiping mothers, and the utter jealousy from the daughters. Even if Darcy could tolerate the staring he could not stand the gossip. Especially if he was with Elizabeth in Meryton, as they passed groups of women they would put their heads together with no regard for either the young woman's or his feelings, and gossip relentlessly about the match. Darcy often sensed Elizabeth's discomfort and it was proved when he looked down to see a tear forming in her eyes. He so much wanted to comfort her, but couldn't find the right words.
However much Bingley wanted to see his friend suffer under the pretext of forming a loveless marriage, he couldn't stand to see the couple in that way any longer. It was so that two Mondays after Darcy and Elizabeth's engagement he proposed a walk through the country side, finishing up back at Meryton and passing along the Netherfield boarder beforehand. Elizabeth readily agreed, she would have done anything to escape her mother for an hour or so and would even bare of company of Mr. Darcy. So the four of them set off at a steady pace, first of all towards Meryton. A knot was forming in Elizabeth's stomach as they approached the small town. She didn't think she could manage another encounter of the gossip and the stares. Darcy had formed the very same opinion and he acted with tact quickly.
"We should go this way towards Meryton" He said calmly, gesturing towards a path that ran east towards a small glade walled on either side by small oak trees. "That way, we do not have to pass through Meryton and it will shorten our walk" Darcy had only agreed to chaperone Bingley and Jane believing Elizabeth would not dare accompany him. He felt a certain ache on having to leave her, but after two weeks surrounded by her family he was pining to escape. Elizabeth agreed gratefully and the couple swerved their path to avoid the bustling town. Bingley and Jane, however, had not noticed as they were too absorbed in each other to notice is the world fallen out from under their feet.
"I hope it pleases you to know Bingley will propose today, Miss. Bennet" Started Darcy when he had found nothing else to say. There was always the weather he supposed…but he wasn't that desperate to seem desperate.
"Are you quite sure?" She asked, keeping her head to the path and fighting down an overwhelming urge to turn and take a glance at Jane and Mr. Bingley.
"I am positive"
"Then it does please me" She replied with a small smile before taking a quick glance at Darcy who was looking at her sternly, their eyes flew away from each other instantly and they walked along once more in silence. Elizabeth's mind rattled off various subjects in her head which could interest Mr. Darcy, but dismissed all of them quickly. Mr. Darcy wasn't having trouble finding what to say, but how to say it. Whilst they were on the topic of marriage he supposed it as good a time as any to bring up the matter of their engagement. Just as Elizabeth was about to give in to a conversation about the weather, Mr. Darcy cleared his throat and began.
"I must tell you now, that our engagement will be a short one" She looked up to him quickly. She had rather hoped their engagement to be of the long sort. She had wanted to live the scarce months freely before being ensnarled into a marriage, especially one to a man like Darcy.
"How short is short exactly?"
Darcy looked down at her face and swallowed hard, he barely wanted to admit it to her now. Not after her face had fallen and her eyes seemingly form with tears. "We must be married before Christmas"
"Christmas" That was shorter than even Elizabeth had expected. She had at least thought one last Christmas at home was little to ask, but no. she would be taken away from the cheer and thrown into a world of misery before the joyous event. She tried to imagine Mr. Darcy's home filled with laughter and music, but could not. She supposed his house to be haunted with lost souls, cold from misery, and perfectly unsatisfied.
"I am sorry that it is short, but I would like to be married before I travel to Italy" Elizabeth repressed a small smile as a glimmer of freedom was laid down before her. She could almost grab it…
"When do you go to Italy?" Darcy looked at her at the wrong moment and saw a smile pass across her face. He gritted his teeth and held his tongue, for civilities sake.
"February. I must go and visit some property there. It's a beautiful place and faces over the mountains. Perhaps you will visit it someday" He threw at her quickly, looking away from her to the path in front of him. She didn't reply to his comment, it was still sinking in. She didn't know what to make of this…freedom.
"I have never been abroad" Elizabeth muttered finally, not wanting to show a sign of emotion over the plan. She did want to go abroad, very much, especially to Italy. However, she had no intention of going with Darcy, and less intention on telling him so.
"Then I hope you like it" He replied carelessly as he watched a gaggle of geese swarm down the path towards them chatting away as they headed for the nearest pond. Behind the adults he spotted 5 smaller geese. Obviously the children from this year, a small pang of longing shot up his spine at the sight of them, and he had no idea why. "There is something else" He told her again. He hadn't wanted to ask this of her before he saw her unsubtle joy, but now he found he had no such worries.
"Yes?"
"Whilst I am gone. You will stay with Bingley and Jane, and, you will take Georgiana with you; my sister" He spoke in his displeased-master-of-Pemberley voice. A voice that could send lions creeping back into their dens and birds fleeing for miles around. Elizabeth looked up at him in disgust. How dare he speak like that to me?
"Anything, you wish" She muttered her voice equally as cold and detached. She almost felt compelled to throw a mock curtsey into the mix. Darcy looked away again his face screwing up in frustration. Their conversation then became agonising. They could barely speak two words to each other without a rising sense of hatred. Darcy constantly threw looks back towards his friend, hoping in vain to catch his eye and end this maddening walk. He would have given anything in that fleeting moment to be back within the walls of Pemberley, instead of rambling through scenery too sweet to be of any substance.
Wickham sat at the bar of the local tavern. A black cloak masked his regimentals from the townsfolk and he muttered his displeasure into the drink in front of him. What misfortunes had led him to this? Only his own mistakes could lead him to be drinking from a glass coated in dust and grime. He did not admit this to himself however, it was after all, Mr. Darcy's fault he was ruined. He muttered a curse into his drink which made the intoxicated gentleman next to him to look around curiously. The old oak door was thrown open and in stepped Denny. He spotted Wickham and Wickham spotted him. The latter gentleman threw his drink back to the bar and turned his head away. Denny had no time for one of his friend's moods and paced across the bar and grabbed his shoulder.
Wickham shrugged off his hand, but it only came down harder and spun him on his stool.
"What do you want?" Wickham muttered. Denny rolled his eyes and quickly sat down on the stool next to him.
"Have you heard?" Denny panted, trying desperately to recover from his run from the church.
"What do you want?" He repeated taking another drink.
"Damn it Wickham!" Put that drink down and I will tell you" When Wickham failed to comply Denny reached forwards and seized it off him, placing it roughly on the bar with a slam. "Elizabeth Bennet is to marry Mr. Darcy" He almost shouted, his patience gone.
Wickham lifted his head out from the safety of his palms and looked Denny straight in the eye. Denny watched as Wickham's blue eyes flashed in a number of emotions and then settle on one quite determined. His shock was unbelievable. He hadn't even had the chance to have his fun yet. The deed was done. He knew Darcy, and a slow engagement was the last thing he wanted. He would pluck Elizabeth within weeks and plant her firmly in the solid walls of his society.
"What? You are lying"
"I am not. Lydia Bennet told me just now as I was walking past the church" Wickham had already stopped listening again. She was taken for now, but he could still have his way with her. He smiled slyly at Darcy's anger and discomfort when he finds out that his own wife was ruined right under his nose. And with a scoundrel. With the same scoundrel who most positively ruined his sister also.
He imagined the praise he would receive from the Greenfly when he has his way with the wife of Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Yes! Longbourn. I am home at last, no more suffering in the company of that insufferable man. I am free, for now at least. Then I must marry him! But he goes to Italy, and lord knows how long he will stay there for.
Elizabeth walked quickly a step in front of Mr. Darcy the last few paces before the front door was in sight and so was her quick escape. However much she adored her sister and wanted to wish her all the best, she couldn't wait to leave Darcy with her so she could stretch out her wings and flourish in conversation again. She would not mind Mr. Darcy if only he wasn't so decidedly clever. Never before in her life has she found dominating a conversation so tiresome. And she would have to marry him! She supposed that she would endeavour to practise. Maybe one day a battle of wits wouldn't be an awful pastime.
"Lizzie! Mr. Darcy!" Mrs. Bennet appeared at the doorway waving her kerchief at them and beckoning them over quickly. The smile which had blessed her face earlier still had not faded and she embraced Darcy with a coquettish curtsey.
It could be worse. Darcy supposed. All the daughters could have been like her.
"Messrs' Wickham and Hansberry are here"
Then again, maybe this nightmare could be worse then I originally anticipated.
"Messrs' Wickham and Hansberry are here".
As soon as the words were out of Mrs. Bennet's mouth, Darcy tensed and moved closer to Elizabeth, much like a male lion guarding what's his. Elizabeth looked up at him, and wondered if he was worried that his harshness to the former gentleman would become apparent. Darcy gritted his teeth and slowly stepped forward in front of Elizabeth. He gave Mrs. Bennet a small bow.
"How wonderful". He muttered darkly, as he passed her and walked quickly inside. He strode down the hall and firmly planted the displeased look on his face. He did not know Hansberry, but he was bound to be trouble. He formulated his plan quickly before stepping into the back drawing room.
The door swung open and two gentlemen appeared. Wickham had half expected to see Darcy, but the master of Pemberley still took him by surprise. He stood in the doorway, and gave them a look so undiluted, it seemed to mirror what was in his very soul. Pure disgust. Hansberry actually felt himself make a choking sound and quickly turned to the window. That was the only indication Darcy made of his feelings, but he strode purposefully into the room and paced around the edge. His boots made soft clicks on the floor and Wickham felt himself rock slightly in unease.
Soon however, the whole party was settled and Mr. Bingley and Jane's engagement was duly announced. Elizabeth watched from her seat by the window, as Darcy stepped towards them, grasped his friend's hand with great vigour and said a quiet congratulation to Jane with a small smile. An unwanted pang of jealously ripped through Elizabeth and she turned her attention to outside. Maybe Darcy had wanted her sister?
"Miss. Elizabeth". Wickham's voice broke through her reverie and she looked up to him with a smile. Finally, she could talk to a man who doesn't make her despair with each conversation. He smiled down at her and turned to look out of the window also.
"Mr. Wickham". She gave a small inclination of the head and he smiled slowly.
"I fear I must congratulate your impending marriage to Mr. Darcy". He started slowly, taking a brief look to measure her response.
"That you do". She replied carefully. Then she muttered more to herself, "And what a farce it shall be"
"I am sure he will make a…" Wickham sought for the right word quickly. "Bland husband" Elizabeth laughed, then covered her mouth. However it was her laughing that caught Darcy's attention. Darcy's head shot up and glanced to where Elizabeth was sitting. Panic gripped him, and an animalistic nature – to get to her side, and to get there fast – over took him. He swung his head and gave an apologetic look to Bingley before he leaped as gentlemanlike and civilly as possible into Elizabeth and Wickham's conversation.
It was as if Elizabeth's laugh had set off some sort of trigger, for now Mr. Bennet looked up from his book just in time to see an agitated Darcy leap to his fiancée's side. Mr. Bennet, out of curiosity, placed his book down on his knee and studied the trio. There had been the faintest hint of fear cross Wickham's face as Darcy loomed over him; for the latter gentleman was indeed tall. Darcy stood between Elizabeth and Wickham and was a little closer to the lady than appeared necessary. There was something wrong. Regardless of what anyone else had said, Mr. Darcy was the best sort of gentleman. For him to try and shun a man out of conversation was not a normal personality trait. This, coupled with the numerous rumours about Mr. Wickham's sexual escapades, made Mr. Bennet rise and step carefully towards Jane.
He held his hands out towards his glowing daughter and she accepted them gladly.
"Congratulations, my dear!" He presently said, keeping half an eye towards Darcy. Jane blushed some more, and the wide smile stayed fixed upon her face.
"Thank you Papa! I don't think I have ever been this happy". Jane gushed. Her voiced seem closer to the tone of Lydia, than the old Jane.
"Well then, Jane. In your present state of ecstasy, you wouldn't mind doing your old father a favour?"
"Of course now! How can I help you?"
Mr. Bennet's face turned serious as he turned his full attention towards his eldest daughter. "I need you to engage Lizzie in conversation while I speak with Mr. Darcy"
"Speak with him? What on earth has happened?"
"Nothing of substance. Also, don't let her talk anymore with Mr. Wickham. And try to tell her about Mr. Darcy's traits. I feel she has been very harsh on the latter gentleman". Mr. Bennet reached forward and stroked his daughter's cheek with affection before pacing towards Darcy.
He appeared at his son-in-law's arm and they exchanged a warm smile which made Elizabeth uneasy. Life would have been so much easier if her father detested Darcy, too.
"Darcy! May I speak with you privately?" His voice was warm and his tone jolly, which set Darcy's immediate panic at ease. He nodded slowly and with his head bowed down he turned to Elizabeth. He nodded his head again in her direction and silently left without a glance at Wickham. Mr. Bennet, however, did give Wickham a look. Elizabeth noted it was a very pointed and purposeful look. The sort of look she imagined Darcy giving Wickham, not her own father!
Both gentlemen walked towards Mr. Bennet's study and shut the door behind them. Mr. Bennet quickly indicated to the chair opposite his desk, and once seated he offered Darcy a drink, to which he declined hastily. Mr. Bennet took his time in settling himself down, and noted Darcy's uneasiness with a precise eye.
"I couldn't help but notice, Mr. Darcy, your dislike of Mr. Wickham".
"That is correct, Sir. I do indeed have a strong dislike of the said gentleman".
"And what are your grounds for this?"
"My sister". He replied quickly, and then all eye contact was lost. "It is a dire situation, which I regret with such a passion. When I saw him talk alone with Miss. Bennet, I couldn't let the same befall her". His tone was dark, and his voice barely a whisper. Mr. Bennet found himself leaning forward to catch his words.
"Will you tell me? About Mr. Wickham and his true character?"
"Yes". Mr. Darcy replied, finally standing to pace about the small room. He took a few strides and pinched his nose in thought. Where would he begin? Such memories plagued him, it was hard to pinpoint the beginning of all the events. "Mr. Wickham is the son of a very respectable man, who had, for many years, the management of all the Pemberley estates; we grew up together naturally; our fathers were great friends. His father died when we were boys and my father supported him and formed a very excellent opinion of him. Before you judge me too rashly, I am not jealous of him, even if he had won the heart of my father. I was still his heir and I always grew up with selfish pride because Pemberley would always be mine. Explains a great deal does it not? My pride that is". Darcy stopped pacing momentarily, as his brain twisted itself back to the story. Mr. Bennet drew his fingers together and rested them on the desk, in thought.
"My father died some few years ago, and left Wickham a small parsonage of no consequence; Wickham had always claimed his dreams lay with the church. However on my father's death bed he gave up that idea and demanded the sum of £1,000. All connection between us now dissolved. He disappeared from my life and thoughts for some years. That was until last year when he dragged himself back to Pemberley. His money had gone; his society was that of the prostitutes and idle poor. Needless to say, he begged for more money, which I rightly refused.
"It was at Pemberley where he met my sister, Georgiana, again. He had always been kind to her as a child, but could not have perused any intentions towards her as he was uprooted from the house quickly. You cannot blame me for my actions; I had heard numerous tales of his time in London and would not allow my sister to be a victim in one.
"It was another year since and I heard not a word of Wickham. I journeyed to town for the season, and on a matter of business. Georgiana stayed in Ramsgate; and thither also went Mr. Wickham, undoubtedly by design; for there proved to have been a prior acquaintance between him and Mrs. Younge, in whose character we were most unhappily deceived. Wickham seduced my sister and led her to believe she was in love. They were going to elope, you know? The very day that I expectantly joined her.
"She is more than ten years my junior, and I am almost a father to her. Immediately, she revealed to me the plan, and I was furious. Before I even had the chance to release my fury onto Mr. Wickham, he had fled. Leaving a distraught and forlorn fifteen year old girl in his wake"
With that Mr. Darcy sat down abruptly, and turned his eyes to Mr. Bennet, who sat stiffly in his chair. He glanced at Darcy, then at the desk in front of him, and then back to Darcy. From the drawing room he heard the laughter of the house. He had truly underestimated the character of Mr. Wickham. If Darcy was to be believed – and surely he was – that man must leave. Now.
"T-t-thank you, for telling me this, Darcy" He stammered, his throat dry. He still couldn't believe it. That man was sitting in there with all five of his daughters. A desperate urge flooded through him, similar to the one Darcy had felt as he dived to Elizabeth's side. One of protection.
Then Jane, the dutiful daughter she was, continued her praise of Mr. Darcy. This was met by more resentment, but not as strong. Lizzie listened and after an age promised she would try to form a new opinion of her fiancé. With this in mind, Lizzie set out to find him and stumbled across him coming out of her father's study, with a flustered look on his face. He stopped stock still when he saw her, and measured up her continence for some time.
Mr. Darcy stepped forward in the dark and gripped Elizabeth by the shoulders. At a better time he would have paused to remember their feel, but his feelings were so unclear he felt sick. He found her eyes in the dark and his head moved forwards, wanting his demand to be fully and utterly understood.
Elizabeth watched his head coming towards her and if she could move her hands she would have slapped him in pure cheek. She panicked quickly. Was he seriously going to kiss her? She battled backwards away from his hands forcefully. All notion of forming a new good opinion was quickly dismissed.
"Mr. Darcy, remove your hands immediately", she hissed to him in the dark. If Wickham was all Darcy recently claimed, then he was not any better.
Darcy's feelings mounted. She was already struggling away from him, but where would she go? To Jane? To Wickham? She was his, soon to have their souls joined in flesh, but what about when their souls ascend..? He pulled her back towards him roughly, his grip increasing and sure to cause a bruise. Anger, hatred, pain and something much deeper and more dangerous were surging through his body. They acted anaerobically and his breathing seized. When she was inches away from his face he took a deep breath. The pain building up in him was shattering. He panted in the dark and Elizabeth found tears forming in her eyes. They were not tears of frustration but for the first time she found she was terrified of Mr. Darcy. One slid down her face, Darcy noticed, and another stab hit him hard in the chest. He ignored it swiftly, needing to tell her.
"You will never be alone in the company of Wickham. Do you understand?" he told her slowly. Another tear fell down her face. She did understand. She understood perfectly.
"What right do you have in ordering me around" she muttered. Then adding belatedly for disgust; "Sir?"
Does she try to be infuriating? Does she mean to hate me? If only she knew that man like I do. If only she had experienced his doings. He shook her violently and suddenly pulled his head close to her's.
He looked at her, then with some regret, but still too angry to care told her: "I will be your husband. I have every right in the book" His breath was hot on her face, but it seemed to evaporate her tears. She willed herself to look him straight in the eye, but it caused her incredible pain.
"I want you to leave" she hissed once more. He gritted his teeth and pushed her away suddenly. It was only once he was gone that she realized his immense heat on her body. With one dark look at her, he swept out of the front door. She stood rigid, watching him pace off into the fog, and disappear from view.
What am I meant to feel?
He looked around him as he walked, and kicked a nearby bush. Anger had vented up inside him, even violence couldn't release it. He was past anger now. A terrible fury bubbled up inside him, and it threatened to spill and scold anything it touched.
"Dammit Darcy! What the devil have you done?". He muttered to himself darkly, as if another voice would answer some coherent reason. No such answer came and his clouded mind was forced to battle with the new and tremendous – if not chilling – feelings alone. So, since he was tackling his emotions, which should he start with? Anger seemed like the best choice. The most dangerous. How dare Wickham enter that house? Was his first thought. The green eyes of his enemy, as they flicked over his fiancée like she was a piece of meat…something that he could take in an instant. He clenched his fists (and clenched them hard), forcing himself not to get violent. It was too late before he noticed the blood staining his palms. Then the pain shot through him and he stumbled, regaining his balance with a jolt. Volcanoes pounded behind his eyes, hot rage burned in his veins, he wanted nothing more than to destroy, tear, and kill that insufferable man who dared look at his fiancée in that way. He looked around like a wild beast stalking his prey, he continued to walk in the gloom and desperately hoped he crossed nobody's path. He didn't know what would happen if someone confronted him tonight.
For now, willing himself to forget that man was impossible. Especially now, especially because his Elizabeth had rejected his demand. If only she knew why she must stay away from him. Tears pricked at Darcy's eyes, or seemed to. He needed to be with her, even his wretched brain saw that now. If not her, then who else would there be? It wasn't love yet, he wasn't a fool. It wasn't Romeo or Juliet.
But it was a beginning.
It was a woman. A woman who it seemed he would chase for eternity. A woman who stirred up some unknown feeling in his chest, be it sexual frustration or adoration. It didn't matter. It did not matter. Darcy pressed on walking, and thought some more about Elizabeth. His chest grew tighter with every step and all her gazes flashed before his eyes, like some ghost spewing out of the fog towards him. Panic was next to take over his body. Panic ran into the spotlight and yelled 'behold' and waited for attention. Darcy continued in his agitated manner. What if I ruin her life forever? It is probable, I can see that from the way she looks at me, the way her eyes glare at me and try to read my very soul. She would learn to love me, wouldn't she?
Darcy continued to lash blindly at his mind, until he settled on something.
Oh Georgiana. Poor Georgiana. No other words were possible to express a brother's regret on failing his own beloved sister, and a dying promise to his father. Now he couldn't break another promise, not another.
The gentleman now turned into the grounds of Netherfield and he breathed out slowly, stood still and looked up to the house. And then as if the fog had cleared from his mind:
I leave tomorrow. Everything will be okay after then. I will return with Georgiana, I will marry. And we will live in perfect harmony. Just you see.