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Chapter 15: The Shooting Party

Posted on 2008-07-18

Mr. Bennet entered the breakfast room happily the next morning and cheerfully greeted his daughters, wife and cousin. Living in a household filled almost entirely with women, Mr. Bennet found that he rarely had the opportunity to enjoy the pleasures of sport. The prospect of going shooting in the company of Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy pleased him immensely, despite the unhappy business with Mr. Wickham. Unlike his youngest daughters and wife, Mr. Bennet had determined to draw his own opinion of the young man from Derbyshire, and with this resolve, he looked forward to the day.

"Will you be joining us for our shooting party, Mr. Collins?" Mr. Bennet asked politely, though the thought of the bumbling Mr. Collins with a gun troubled him greatly.

Mr. Collins looked thoughtful for a moment, before answering, "I believe I shall, Mr. Bennet. Though I have never participated in the sport before, I do not believe it has any evil tendencies."

Elizabeth laughed into her napkin, for she knew this was not the answer her father was hoping he would receive. At the sound of Elizabeth's laughter, Mr. Bennet turned to speak with his favorite daughter, but halted when he noticed her drawn appearance. He frowned as he studied Elizabeth's pale complexion, and the dark lines that appeared below her beautiful eyes. Uneasiness weighing upon him, he reached out for her hand.

"Are you well, Lizzy?" he asked, his concern evident in his voice.

The entire party, with the exception of Mr. Collins, whose attention was arrested by the meal in front of him, turned to study Elizabeth. Mrs. Bennet looked curiously at her daughter, and wondered at Mr. Bennet's question before returning her attention to Mr. Collins, while Catherine and Lydia almost immediately returned to their discussion of the previous evening's entertainments. Only Mary and Jane looked at their sister intently, easily recognizing the worry in their father's voice as a sign that Elizabeth was truly altered.

"You do look pale, Elizabeth," Mary said gently. "Perhaps you walked too far this morning?"

Elizabeth patted Mary's hand, and assured her that she was well, stating, "I am only a little tired."

Jane and Mary shared a look of concern, and Mr. Bennet inquired, "You are certain, Lizzy?"

Elizabeth recognized the distress in his voice, and quickly set to assuring him that she was not ill. She smiled brightly, despite the slight headache she felt as a result of her sleepless night, and declared, "Truly, I am well. You have nothing to fear. I have not yet walked out this morning, and am certain I am only in need of a little fresh air."

Jane quickly offered to join Elizabeth for a walk after breakfast, and Mary asked if Elizabeth would wish to practice the pianoforte with her when she returned to the house. Elizabeth smiled, and assented to the plan. This admission quieted Mr. Bennet's anxiety slightly, and he leaned back in his chair to study his favorite daughter. He had noticed that she had been distracted as of late, but the melancholy in her face this morning was entirely new, and troubled him greatly. Mr. Bennet had always been amazed by Elizabeth's steadfastly vibrant character, and believed that her blindness, however tragic, had produced in her an incomparable appreciation for life. Elizabeth sensed her father's eyes on her, and turned to address him.

"I am well, sir," she said gently as she patted his hand.

Mr. Bennet smiled, and clasped Elizabeth's hand tightly before returning his attention to his plate.

Elizabeth and Jane walked slowly through the high grass at the foot of Oakham Mount, their skirts brushing aside the tall reeds. Jane remained silent despite her worry for her sister, knowing better than to force Elizabeth's confidence. She looked toward her sister, and noticed Elizabeth's face was turned pensively to the sky. For Elizabeth, this place was irrevocably connected with Mr. Darcy, for it was here that they first met; that she first heard his strong voice and felt his presence. She sighed loudly, and Jane turned toward her.

"You cannot fool me, Lizzy," Jane observed quietly. "You have not told me of everything that passed between you and Mr. Wickham."

Elizabeth smiled at her sister's characteristic perceptiveness, but still felt unable to approach the topic of Mr. Darcy's engagement calmly. She turned toward her sister and stated, "I am only troubled by the manner with which he addressed me. Why ever did he tell such a story to me?"

Jane shook her head and asserted, "We can hardly know, Lizzy."

Elizabeth's mouth set firmly, and she declared, "You do not think Mr. Wickham thought me the most likely to believe his claims, do you? That he took my blindness to mean that I naive?"

"You believe his telling you to be calculating?" Jane asked as her eyes widened in shock.

Biting her lip thoughtfully, Elizabeth answered, "I do not know, but the openness with which he spoke was very strange."

Jane looked toward her and inquired, "Have you determined to mistrust him then?"

Elizabeth nodded slightly and said, "I cannot explain it fully, but I felt uneasy speaking with him. I feel there is something artful in Mr. Wickham's manner, though he hides it well."

Jane glanced gravely at the ground, and agreed with her sister. She trusted Elizabeth's judgment implicitly, for Elizabeth had always had an infallible understanding of people's characters and her opinions rarely erred.

"We shall be guarded when we meet with him then," Jane stated firmly. "I will speak with our father directly, for I worry about Lydia and Kitty. They are so very open, and I fear their love for regimentals will blind them to the flaws of the young men wearing them."

Elizabeth nodded and said, "You are correct. I find it amazing that an encampment of soldiers can disrupt our lives so greatly."

Jane laughed, and was surprised when Elizabeth came to a halt. She asked, "What is it, Lizzy?"

Noticing the mischievous glint in Elizabeth's eye, Jane was not surprised when Elizabeth stretched her arms wide. Smiling slightly, Jane glanced around to ascertain if they were alone before raising her own arms.

"This is very childish you know, Lizzy," said Jane seriously. "Mama would disapprove heartily."

"And Mr. Collins would assure her that our shocking behavior must be due to our reading too many novels!" exclaimed Elizabeth happily.

With this, the two sisters laughed and began to spin.

Darcy remained silent as Bingley happily talked of Miss Jane Bennet, proclaiming that she was most certainly an angel. Darcy listened inattentively, his mind unhappily recounting the vision of George Wickham in Meryton, making the Bennets' acquaintance, and talking happily with the youngest sisters. Darcy was aware that Elizabeth undoubtedly wondered at his abrupt departure, and he hoped she was not offended. When he encountered Wickham's eyes, Darcy recognized that the wound left by his previous meeting with that gentleman was still too fresh, and his rage over it far from extinguished. Wishing to avoid alarming Bingley, and the rest of the company, Darcy thought it better to retreat quickly. He gripped his horse's reigns tightly, twisting the leather agitatedly as they rode toward Longbourn. Darcy only snapped from his reverie when he heard Bingley call his name several times.

"I say, Darcy, you will never get a single covey today if you insist on being so distracted," Bingley declared. "Whatever are you thinking on that has you looking so brooding?"

Darcy looked sharply at his friend and proclaimed, "I am not brooding."

Bingley shook his head lightly and said, "You are right, old man, you look just as dour as you always do."

Bingley was displeased when Darcy nodded slightly; evidence that he had not heard Bingley's remark in the least. Furrowing his brow, Bingley coaxed his horse into a fast trot and moved to block Darcy's path. Only when his own stallion started in surprise, did Darcy recognize Bingley's movement and come to a halt.

"What the devil are you doing, Bingley?" he asked hotly. "You will injure us both!"

"I demand to know what has my friend so unsettled," Bingley answered calmly. "I have not seen you this distracted since last summer when you returned from Ramsgate."

Darcy's countenance darkened at the mention of that place, and he guided his horse around Bingley's, and continued on in silence. Bingley remained undeterred, and quickly caught up to his friend.

"You spoke not a word when we returned from Meryton the other day," Bingley said quickly.
"Whatever happened there that disturbed you so greatly? Your departure was unforgivably rude, for you did not even introduce yourself to Mr. Collins or those other gentlemen."

Darcy sighed heavily and declared quietly, "I am already acquainted with one gentleman, and I have no wish to renew it."

Bingley's brow rose in surprise, and he said, "You mean, Mr. Collins, your aunt's curate? He is ridiculous to be sure, but that is no reason to be boorish toward him."

Reining his horse to a stop, Darcy answered darkly, "It is not Mr. Collins I have met previously."

"Do you mean you know that Wickham fellow?" Bingley asked, and watched as Darcy nodded gravely. "Whatever has he done to offend you so greatly?"

Darcy looked at Bingley sadly, and said, "You will remember when I had to return so abruptly to Pemberley with Georgiana last summer?"

Bingley nodded, and quickly recollected that Darcy had hinted previously that his quick departure from London was due to his worry for his sister's welfare.

His eyes widening in surprise, Bingley inquired, "You mean that Wickham was the cause?"

Darcy looked at the ground unhappily and answered simply, "He was indeed."

Bingley sighed in wonder, and waited for Darcy to continue.

"I cannot tell you the whole of our history now, Bingley, but I hope you will believe me when I tell you that George Wickham is not a man to be trusted," Darcy stated seriously.

Bingley assured his friend that he believed him fully, and soon exclaimed, "But he was forming an acquaintance with the Miss Bennets!"

"I know, Bingley," Darcy said quietly. "Now you will understand my distraction."

Looking alarmingly to Darcy's face, Bingley asserted, "Surely, there must be something we can do to discourage his meeting with them. Can we not warn them against him?"

Darcy shook his head vehemently and declared, "I cannot do so without revealing some things I wish to remain unknown, and I would not risk Georgiana's reputation."

Bingley asked tentatively, "What will you do then, Darcy?"

Darcy looked out over the field for a moment, his mouth set in a grim line and his hands straining with the force of his grip on his reins. Bingley studied his friend in wonder; Darcy had always been an imposing figure due to his height and air, but the new darkness of his mien and the unyielding look in his dark eyes made him a frightening force.

Darcy answered firmly, "I do not yet know, Bingley, but I will not allow Wickham to run me off again."

With that, Darcy rode off quickly in the direction of Longbourn, and after looking anxiously toward his friend's retreating form, Bingley rode after him.

Jane and Elizabeth fell to the ground in exhaustion, laughing loudly at their own silliness.

Elizabeth breathed heavily and observed, "I imagine our appearances must be wild indeed."

Jane looked at her sister, noticing the blades of grass that covered her skirts, and declared, "Mama would be most unhappy."

Jane reached her hands up to tidy her hair, while Elizabeth dusted off her half boots. Their laughter diminished, and the two sisters were surprised to hear approaching horses, and Mr. Bingley's cheerful greeting.

"What a surprise to meet you here," he declared happily as he turned his eyes to Jane's flushed face. "We are on our way to Longbourn to meet with your father."

Jane stood quickly from her position on the ground, and blushing in mortification, declared, "Good morning, sir. My sister and I were just..."

Elizabeth smiled as her sister's voice trailed off, and she easily recognized Jane's discomfort at being found in such a position. Rising from the ground, Elizabeth said, "We were just enjoying the scenery, Mr. Bingley. It is a fine day for a walk."

Bingley smiled broadly, and leapt from his horse before stating, "Indeed, you are right, Miss Elizabeth. If you do not mind, Darcy and I shall join you."

Darcy looked to his friend in alarm, feeling himself unprepared to be in Elizabeth's company. Darcy listened distractedly to Miss Bennet's gentle acceptance of Bingley's offer, and without taking his eyes from Elizabeth's form, dismounted from his horse. Bowing respectfully, he greeted the ladies.

"Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth," he said seriously. "It is a pleasure to see you again."

Jane smiled, and wished him a good morning, before falling in beside Bingley and walking on. Darcy looked to Elizabeth, and tightening his hand nervously on his horse's rein, walked tentatively toward her.

"You are well I hope, Miss Bennet," he stated evenly. "I noticed you fall as you were... taking in the scenery."

Elizabeth blushed furiously at the mention of her childish spinning, and quickly assured her companion that she was well.

"You must think me odd indeed," she said lightly in the hope of disguising her discomfort. "I am certain I am not fit to be seen."

Darcy watched as she worked to smooth some wayward strands that had falling down during her dancing, and smiling slightly, admitted to himself that he had missed her heartily.

"I think you look remarkably well, Miss Bennet," he said quietly. "No one who saw you could think anything wanting."

Elizabeth blushed, and thanked him for his compliment. For some moments, the two walked on silently, until Darcy's horse pulled nervously, and Darcy halted to quiet him. He rubbed his hand along the horse's nose, and spoke softly in an effort to calm the animal.

"I think your horse remembers me as the witch who caused him to throw his master to the ground," Elizabeth observed merrily.

Darcy smiled and answered, "Perhaps you are right, but his master thoroughly deserved it."

Elizabeth smiled, and once Darcy's horse had calmed, the two continued walking. Elizabeth attempted to distract herself from Darcy's presence by running her hand along the tall reeds beside her, concentrating on them as they slid along her palm. Darcy looked toward her, and hoping to ascertain if he had offended her the other day, addressed her.

"I hope you forgive me for my untoward behavior the other day, Miss Bennet," he said quietly.

Elizabeth turned toward him and said curiously, "There is nothing to forgive, Mr. Darcy, for I noticed nothing untoward. I cannot fault you for having important matters to attend to, can I?"

Darcy nodded his head, and thanked her for her understanding. Much to Elizabeth's disappointment, he fell silent again, and though she had resolved not to think on it, she could not help but wonder how he would defend himself if he knew of Wickham's story.

Hoping to draw him out, she stated tentatively, "When you met us the other day we were just forming a new acquaintance."

She noticed the effect of her statement immediately as she heard Darcy draw a sharp breath. Had she been able to, she would have seen his jaw tighten and his countenance darken noticeably.

Unable to restrain himself, Darcy answered bitterly, "George Wickham is blessed with such pleasing manners that he makes friends easily, though he is incapable of keeping them."

Elizabeth turned toward her companion in wonder, for she had never heard him talk with such vehemence, and she was startled by it.

"He has said that he has been unlucky to lose your friendship, and he suffers acutely as a result," she said quietly.

Darcy stopped abruptly, and turned toward her quickly. With more passion than he intended, he exclaimed ironically, "He suffers? Oh yes, his misfortunes have been great indeed!"

Elizabeth started at his declaration, and Darcy moved to continue walking as he was heartily disappointed that Elizabeth had been so easily swayed by Wickham. His progress was stopped when he felt Elizabeth's steadying hand on his arm. Turning back to her curiously, Darcy waited for her to speak.

"Mr. Wickham is no friend of mine, sir," Elizabeth stated evenly.

Darcy looked down at her delicate hand that grasped his sleeve so surely, and glanced up to study her face. He noticed her eyes were filled with worry, and her complexion not as vibrant as it had been at Netherfield. Suddenly he recognized the meaning of her words; however Wickham had imposed himself on her, she had not been taken in by him. Breathing deeply, he quelled his anger, and turned fully to Elizabeth.

"Forgive me, Miss Bennet," he said gently. "I was told by Bingley that my behavior has been very boorish today."

Elizabeth smiled slightly and said, "As I said earlier, Mr. Darcy, there is nothing to forgive."

Darcy smiled, and taking her hand that remained on his sleeve, moved it to the crook of his arm. Grasping his horse's reins once again, he continued walking.

"I am wholly ignorant of what Mr. Wickham has accused me of," Darcy declared quietly. "But from what you have said, Miss Bennet, I can guess at it."

Elizabeth turned her face up towards his and said, "I did not mean to unsettle you, sir."

Darcy shook his head and stated seriously, "You did no such thing, Miss Bennet. You merely alerted me to the fact that I cannot allow him to so easily impose himself upon you or your family."

Elizabeth remained silent, and waited as he continued nervously, "Miss Bennet, you trusted me enough to share your confidence. May I... that is, would it be too much to ask, if I may share something with you?"

Elizabeth shook her head, and felt his arm tense beneath her fingers. She listened attentively as he began.

"Mr. Wickham is the son of my late father's steward," Darcy stated calmly before looking to Elizabeth. "From your countenance I see that this news is not foreign to you, and I must conclude neither is that fact that my father assisted Mr. Wickham in every way that he could."

Elizabeth admitted that Mr. Wickham had related such, and Darcy nodded before continuing, "My father promised him a very comfortable living in the hopes that Mr. Wickham would take orders, and be of assistance to the church."

Elizabeth started at this intelligence, and reflected that Mr. Wickham's manners were not those of a clergyman.

Darcy sighed deeply, and asserted, "During our childhood, and at Cambridge, I had seen enough of my friend's dissolute behavior to know that he would make a mockery of any position in the church, and after my own great father's death, I was thankful when Mr. Wickham declined the offer of the living."

Elizabeth turned in shock, and her jaw tightened at this evidence of Mr. Wickham's dishonesty. She did not know that Darcy studied her intently, watching how she received his news. Satisfied that he held her attention, he continued.

"He proclaimed an interest in studying the law," Darcy said dryly. "I suppose I hoped that he still might redeem himself, and readily assented to his plan by settling upon him three thousand pounds."

"Such a large sum?" Elizabeth wondered aloud. "Mr. Wickham professes that he has nothing."

Darcy shook his head sadly and declared, "I am certain he is telling the truth in that regard. He has a fondness for cards, but lacks the necessary strategy to be any good at them."

Elizabeth smiled, for this was the first time Mr. Wickham's claims were supported by Mr. Darcy's.

"He had written to me requesting the living he had once been promised, but I hope you can see why I refused his entreaty, and all those that followed. Our acquaintance seemed at an end," Darcy said quietly before continuing, "I could have met him the other day with equanimity had not we met again last summer under very painful circumstances."

Elizabeth was alarmed when she felt his arm shake slightly beneath her hand, and she gripped it tighter in the hope of offering him some comfort. Darcy smiled at her gesture, and continued to describe to her the circumstances of his meeting with Mr. Wickham at Ramsgate. Elizabeth listened wretchedly, and her anger grew as Mr. Darcy described Mr. Wickham's cruel treatment of the young Miss Darcy. Elizabeth felt for the girl, and desperately hoped she would recover with time.

"She was only fifteen years old," Darcy said, his voice catching slightly. "Had Mr. Wickham succeeded in eloping with Georgiana, his revenge would have been complete; he would have had thirty thousand pounds, and taken from me the only member of my family I have left."

Elizabeth bit her lip to quell the rising ache in her heart for the man beside her and his young sister; a family who had been so wounded by the malice of the man they believed to be their friend. Her thoughts were interrupted by her companion's soft declaration.

"I hope you will acquit me of any cruelty toward him," Darcy said gently. "Should you require proof of what I have related, you can write to my cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, for he knows..."

Elizabeth waved her hand, and declined his offer, declaring, "I need no reassurance of the truth of your statements, Mr. Darcy."

Darcy smiled slightly, and looked ahead to see Longbourn come into view. Bingley and Miss Bennet were not far ahead of them, and Darcy studied the pair for a moment before returning his attention to Elizabeth.

"Thank you, Miss Bennet," he said seriously. "I sought only warn you of Mr. Wickham's character, for I would not have you harmed by him in any way."

Blushing, he clumsily added that he told her the history for her sisters' welfare as well. Elizabeth smiled at his nervousness, and nodded her gratitude. As they reached the drive, and Elizabeth heard the gravel crunch beneath the weight of their steps, she stopped their progress and turned toward her companion.

"I pray that your sister is well, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth said gently.

Darcy smiled slightly and said, "I pray for that also, Miss Bennet."

The two continued walking, and cringed when they heard Mrs. Bennet's strident greeting to Mr. Bingley. After handing off their horses to the groom, Mr. Bennet appeared at the entrance and the younger gentlemen bowed respectfully.

"I was certain young men such as you would be more punctual," Mr. Bennet declared dryly as he glanced at his pocket watch. "I would imagine the ride from Netherfield to Longbourn to be a swift one."

Mr. Bingley apologized profusely, and Jane quickly stated, "The gentlemen were good enough to escort Lizzy and me home from our walk, Papa. You may blame us for their tardy arrival."

Mr. Bennet smirked, and invited them into the house for some refreshment before they were to depart for their sport. Darcy looked curiously after the older gentleman, and recognized in him Elizabeth's spirit and ironic wit.

Sensing Darcy's thoughts, Elizabeth smiled and declared, "My father takes delight in vexing people, Mr. Darcy. Do not be offended by anything he says, for he means no harm by it."

Darcy smiled at this portrait of Elizabeth's father, thanked her for the intelligence, and escorted her inside.

As the gentlemen departed on their shooting party, Elizabeth quickly entreated Jane to join her in the garden. Elizabeth held fast to Jane's hand, and rushed across the lawn to the secluded copse of oaks. Once there, Jane sat upon a bench and watched in wonder as Elizabeth paced in agitation.

"Heavens, Lizzy, whatever has happened?" she asked in alarm.

Elizabeth turned toward her sister, and quickly related the entirety of what Mr. Darcy had told her regarding Mr. Wickham. Jane paled as she listened, and shook her head in disbelief, for she would willingly have gone throughout her life disbelieving that such wickedness could exist.

"This is shocking indeed, Lizzy," Jane said quietly. "There must be some error. Could Mr. Wickham be so very bad?"

Elizabeth sat heavily next to Jane, and let out an exasperated breath before declaring, "That will not do, Jane. You will never be able to make both men good."

Jane nodded and exclaimed, "Poor Mr. Darcy! Think what he must have suffered, Lizzy. To be so mistreated by a friend, so misled. How he must have felt relating such a thing about his sister to you, Lizzy."

Elizabeth owned that she felt heartily sorry for Mr. Darcy, and that she sensed his discomfort was very great during the whole of his tale.

"My only concern now is should we make our acquaintances aware of Mr. Wickham's character," she continued. "I fear that the general dislike of Mr. Darcy would make it very difficult."

Jane wrung her hands fretfully and asked, "Do you think perhaps, that Mr. Wickham is sorry for what he has done, and by entering the regiment, seeks to reestablish his character?"

Though Elizabeth doubted it greatly, she assented that Jane's conjecture was possible.

"And I assured Mr. Darcy of my secrecy," she stated seriously. "I would not betray my promise and Miss Darcy's reputation would suffer acutely."

"You are right," Jane declared. "Undoubtedly the regiment will not be here long."

Nodding vehemently, Elizabeth added, "In the mean time, we will ask our father to restrain Lydia and Kitty; they are too much in the company of soldiers."

Before Jane could answer, their peace was shattered by Mrs. Bennet's shrill call from across the lawn.

"Jane, Lizzy, return to the house immediately! Would you have Mr. Bingley think you a pair of gypsies? Always traipsing about out of doors!" she cried.

Jane watched as their mother threw up her hands in frustration and returned to the house fanning herself feverishly. Looking toward Elizabeth, Jane was not surprised to see her eyes sparkling merrily.

Smiling wryly, Elizabeth declared, "Perhaps our mother is right; your Mr. Bingley may be offended by your always accompanying me on walks."

Jane blushed and looked to the ground, stating gently, "I will remind you again that he is not my Mr. Bingley. Besides, if he denied me my walks with you, I would not marry him, even if he did ask me."

Elizabeth smiled broadly, recognizing that her sister's attachment to Mr. Bingley was growing steadily. Her smile diminished slightly as she thought on her own prospects; Jane had always assured her she would have a place with her, but Elizabeth admitted to herself that such a situation would not be enough to secure her happiness. Elizabeth heard Darcy's voice speaking with her, greeting her, reading to her, and she smiled at the memory.

Jane noticed Elizabeth's pensiveness and asked, "Are you certain you are well, Lizzy?"

Not wishing to alarm her sister, Elizabeth smiled brightly and declared, "I am well, Jane. Come; let us return to the house before Mama sends Hill out to fetch us."

Jane and Elizabeth stood, and linking arms, walked in the direction of the house.

On entering the house, Jane was directed above stairs by their mother who insisted she change into her blue gown, believing that Mr. Bingley would favor that color much more.

"Mama, I am certain Mr. Bingley will not notice what I am wearing," Jane said gently.

"Indeed he will!" cried Mrs. Bennet, vexed that her eldest daughter was being so difficult. "You have a very fine figure, so we must make the most of it!"

"Mama!" Jane exclaimed in shock.

Elizabeth smiled at the exchange, and listened as Mrs. Bennet bustled up the stairs after her daughter. Elizabeth removed her spencer, and moved down the hall toward the parlor where she knew Mary to be waiting for her. As Elizabeth walked, she heard Mary playing a lengthy and heavy-sounding concerto, and smiled slightly at her sister's love of such pieces. Elizabeth had often attempted to convince her to play lighter melodies, but Mary was steadfastly opposed to them.

Entering the parlor, Elizabeth made her way to Mary's side, and sat at the pianoforte with her. Elizabeth would often gently correct Mary's rhythm, but could not keep her mind on the melody as she listened. She wondered reluctantly if she would be afforded another opportunity for speaking with Mr. Darcy during the afternoon, for she hoped to ascertain if there was any truth in Mr. Wickham's claims of the engagement existing between Mr. Darcy and Miss de Bourgh. With what she had learned from Mr. Darcy that morning, she doubted that there was, but the idea of his marrying troubled her greatly. She felt her chest tighten at the thought, and she silently admonished herself for her silliness.

‘You are torturing yourself, Lizzy,' she reminded herself sternly. ‘And to what purpose? Surely, you cannot imagine such a man would make you an offer.'

Elizabeth started at the thought, for it was the first time she had acknowledged that she desired it. She shook her head to rid herself of such thoughts, and was happy when Mary distracted her by addressing her.

"Will you play now, Elizabeth?" Mary asked.

Elizabeth assented, and after placing her fingers on the keys, began softly. Mary listened, and noted that Elizabeth's playing had a touch of melancholy in it. Her brow furrowed, for her elder sister rarely played somber pieces. Reaching out her hand, Mary placed it over Elizabeth's to stay her movement. Elizabeth's playing halted, and she turned curiously toward her sister.

"What is it, Mary?" she asked, wondering what her younger sister was about.

"You are not well, Elizabeth," Mary stated seriously. "Regardless of how much you profess it, you are not yourself."

Elizabeth slid her fingers from the keys, and folded her hands upon her lap. Elizabeth smiled slightly at her sister's perceptiveness, and turned toward Mary. She admitted to herself that perhaps their family did not appreciate Mary's intelligence at they ought.

"I will not have my sisters worrying for me every moment of the day," Elizabeth stated firmly. "I am only a little sad; the days are getting colder and you know how much I enjoy walking."

Mary eyed her sister suspiciously, feeling that Elizabeth's pensiveness was rooted in far more than just the weather. Before Mary could inquire further, Elizabeth stood from the bench.

"I think I will venture above stairs to ensure that our mother does not drive poor Jane to distraction," Elizabeth stated lightly, hoping to quiet Mary's concern.

Elizabeth moved toward the hall, and closing the door, leaned against it.

"Calm yourself, Elizabeth," she whispered.

Breathing deeply, she straightened and began moving to the front hall. Distracted as she was by her thoughts, Elizabeth failed to hear the gentlemen return and was surprised when her father addressed her.

"Ah, there you are, Lizzy," Mr. Bennet declared happily. "We are just returned for some refreshment. I am enjoying the conversation of Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy so much, that I am not yet prepared to relinquish their company to your mother. Therefore, you shall find us in the library."

Elizabeth smiled, noticing how her father neglected to mention Mr. Collins' company. Mr. Bennet pressed her hand fondly, and moved toward his library with Mr. Collins fast upon his heels. Elizabeth laughed lightly as she heard her cousin apologize for a wayward shot.

"My most humble apologies, sir," Mr. Collins said loudly. "I had no idea that directing ones shot was so difficult."

Mr. Bingley greeted Elizabeth cheerfully before following her father, and Elizabeth braced herself for she recognized who was the last of the party to enter the house. She listened as Mr. Darcy's boots walked heavily toward her, and she smiled when she felt him stop in front of her.

"Good day, Miss Bennet," he greeted.

Elizabeth curtseyed, and willing her voice steady, asked, "Did you enjoy your hunt, Mr. Darcy?"

Darcy smiled and declared, "I did, thank you, Miss Bennet. Your father is an excellent shot, but I fear your cousin had some difficulty."

Elizabeth smiled and said, "That would explain why he feels the need to apologize to my father."

"Indeed," Darcy answered, but realizing he would be missed, quickly added, "I should join your father."

Elizabeth nodded, and bid him farewell, before making her way above stairs. Darcy watched as she ascended, and only after she was out of sight, retreated to the library.

A half hour later found Mrs. Bennet bustling about the parlor, bidding Mary to hide the needlework while imploring Jane to sit up straight.

"The gentlemen will be joining us at any moment!" she exclaimed fretfully. "I cannot see why your father did not see fit to warn us that they would return early! I would have had Hill prepare the tea, but instead Mr. Bingley was forced to sit in that dusty library of your father's!"

Elizabeth smiled slightly at her mother's declarations, and gently stated, "Mama, I am certain Papa gave Mr. Bingley his very best port as a means of making amends."

Mrs. Bennet turned hopefully to her daughter and asked, "Do you really think so, Lizzy?"

Elizabeth nodded, hoping her mother's anxiety would lessen. Jane joined Elizabeth in her efforts, and assured Mrs. Bennet that Mr. Bingley would not be offended by having to wait for tea. Mrs. Bennet remained doubtful, and wrung her hands nervously but on hearing footsteps approaching the parlor, ran quickly to her seat. Upon entering the room, Mr. Bingley was immediately accosted by Mrs. Bennet.

"We are very happy to have you with us, Mr. Bingley!" she exclaimed. "I hope the shooting was to your liking."

When Mr. Darcy entered behind his friend, Mrs. Bennet turned to him and greeted him with cold civility, stating, "And you are welcome too, Mr. Darcy."

Mrs. Bennet invited Mr. Bingley to sit near Jane, and Elizabeth noted that she did not extend the invitation to Mr. Darcy. Blushing in mortification for her mother's tactlessness, Elizabeth quickly invited him to sit. Darcy thanked her, and took the chair near her.

"I must apologize for my youngest daughters' absence," said Mrs. Bennet. "They are visiting Maria Lucas presently, but I am certain they will return before too long."

Bingley pleasantly assured Mrs. Bennet that he hoped they were both well, while Elizabeth reflected that she was quite thankful Catherine and Lydia were out. Given their open prejudice against Mr. Darcy, and their willingness to discuss Mr. Wickham's supposed misfortunes in company; Elizabeth prayed that they would not return until the gentlemen departed. Her thoughts were interrupted, and she paled slightly, when Mr. Collins addressed Mr. Darcy

Feeling himself excluded from the conversation, Mr. Collins declared, "Mr. Darcy, sir, I feel I must inform you that your aunt and cousin were in excellent health only eight days ago."

Taken aback by Mr. Collins' abrupt admission, Darcy quietly answered, "I am very glad to hear that."

Mrs. Bennet perceived this terse reply to be evidence of Mr. Darcy's arrogance, and tightly declared, "I find it very good of Mr. Collins to bring you news of your family, Mr. Darcy."

Darcy's brow furrowed as he looked toward Mrs. Bennet, and he quickly detected that she was by no means pleased with his presence. With this realization, he unknowingly retreated behind a mask of hauteur, and his mouth set in a grim line.

"It was very kind, madam, and I am most grateful," he said evenly as he looked steadily at Mrs. Bennet.

Elizabeth heard the discomfort in Darcy's voice, and unlike her mother, recognized it for what it was; he had been offended. Hoping desperately to prevent her mother from continuing, Elizabeth addressed Mr. Bingley.

"Are your sisters well, Mr. Bingley?" Elizabeth asked brightly.

Bingley smiled, and declared, "Indeed they are, Miss Elizabeth. They are much occupied preparing for the ball. You see, I have not forgotten that I promised to hold one, and I hope you all will attend."

As he said this, he gazed happily at Jane, and she blushed slightly. Darcy watched the exchange carefully, and recognized that his friend was becoming more deeply attached than he ever had been. Turning his eyes to study Miss Bennet, Darcy attempted to perceive if she reciprocated his friend's partiality. His efforts were disrupted by Mrs. Bennet's exclamation.

"We shall be delighted, Mr. Bingley!" she cried happily. "Kitty and Lydia will be delighted, for they so love dancing. Jane is an excellent dancer; are you not, Jane?"

Jane blushed furiously, and Elizabeth immediately sensed Jane's discomfort and quietly admonished their mother. Regretfully, Mrs. Bennet was not so easily quieted.

"Lizzy will unfortunately be unable to attend," she continued heedlessly. "You certainly understand why she cannot."

Elizabeth inhaled sharply at her mother's declaration, and turned her face toward the floor in an effort to hide her mortification. Darcy's countenance darkened, and he looked in wonder at Mrs. Bennet.

‘Can she truly be so unfeeling?' Darcy thought angrily.

Looking at Elizabeth, Darcy immediately noted how she paled, and that the vibrancy of her eyes dimmed. He gripped his cup tightly as he studied Elizabeth, and his annoyance with Mrs. Bennet was so great that he barely heard Bingley speak.

"Surely Miss Elizabeth, you must come," Bingley declared in surprise. "I will not be satisfied if you do not join us."

Startled by the determination in Mr. Bingley's voice, Mrs. Bennet stated quietly, "But she has never attended a ball before."

Looking toward Jane, and noticing that she anxiously studied Elizabeth, Bingley answered, "Then I will be honored to have her at mine, and I thoroughly hope you will enjoy it, Miss Elizabeth."

Elizabeth turned her face toward Bingley, and quietly thanked him for his invitation. Darcy nodded approvingly at his friend, and watched with satisfaction as Mrs. Bennet wrung her hands uncomfortably. Glancing back at Elizabeth, Darcy saw that she remained unsettled, and hoping to quiet her apprehension, he addressed her.

"Miss Elizabeth," he began gently. "You will be much delighted with Mr. Bingley's preparations for the ball. If you will allow me, I can tell you of them."

Elizabeth turned toward Darcy, and nodded her assent before stating, "I would like that very much, Mr. Darcy."

Before Darcy could answer her, the youngest Miss Bennets clamored into the parlor, their cloaks still clasped about their necks and breathing heavily.

"Mama, you will never guess what Maria Lucas has told us!" exclaimed Lydia as she swept into the room. "It is about Mr. Wickham, and you will surely not believe it!"

When her eyes met Darcy's, Lydia halted in her progress and greeted the gentleman curtly. Bingley watched as Darcy paled upon the mention of that man's name, and noticed that his friend gripped the arms of his chair tightly.

Heedless of the company, Catherine cried, "It is truly remarkable, Mama!"

Mrs. Bennet's love of gossip was not abated by the presence of the gentlemen, and she quickly inquired after her youngest daughters' news.

"Mr. Wickham is engaged, Mama!" Lydia exclaimed as she sat heavily upon a chair. "To Mary King..."

"Who is just about to inherit a large sum of money," finished Catherine.

As the youngest Miss Bennets bemoaned their lack of fortune, and professed that they heartily wished someone would die and leave them money, Darcy turned his gaze outside thoughtfully.

‘The man has not been in the county for more than four days,' Darcy thought bitterly.

Darcy looked toward Bingley, and proclaimed that he had a rather pressing matter of business to attend to and asked that they leave earlier than expected.

"But you were to stay on for supper, Mr. Bingley!" cried Mrs. Bennet unhappily.

As Bingley rose from his seat, he declared, "I hope you will forgive us, Mrs. Bennet. I look forward to seeing you all at the ball."

With that he bowed respectfully and departed. Darcy bowed low and made a quick farewell before following his friend out the door.

"What an insufferable man!" exclaimed Mrs. Bennet when the gentlemen had left the house. "To take poor Mr. Bingley away just to satisfy a whim!"

Jane gently reminded her mother that Mr. Darcy stated that he had an urgent matter of business, and surely did not take Mr. Bingley away to be capricious. Mrs. Bennet continued to abuse Mr. Darcy as Elizabeth listened anxiously as the gentlemen's horses retreated quickly down the drive. Unable to abide her mother's comments any longer, and unwilling to listen to her youngest sisters' bemoaning the loss of Mr. Wickham, Elizabeth rose from her seat and fled the room

Posted on 2008-07-25

Miss Bingley sighed in frustration, and threw her needlework to the table.

"What could possibly be keeping them?" she cried unhappily.

Mrs. Hurst glanced at her sister, and noted how she gazed out the window impatiently. Shaking her head, she declared, "Have patience, Caroline. I have no doubt our brother and Mr. Darcy will return soon."

Miss Bingley's silk skirts swished about her ankles as she stood from her seat and moved toward the window. She had dressed with great care that morning, and was much put out when she discovered Mr. Darcy had accompanied her brother to Longbourn. Staring out the window, she crossed her arms indignantly.

"I fail to understand the attraction Longbourn holds to keep them there so long," she said, her voice revealing the depth of her irritation.

"They have gone shooting, dear sister," Mrs. Hurst stated calmly in the hopes of quieting her sister's anxiety.

Miss Bingley laughed, and looked toward her sister before exclaiming, "You cannot possibly believe it is only shooting that takes our brother to Longbourn? If it was shooting he desired, I am certain Netherfield has enough birds!"

Mrs. Hurst put down her needlework and turned to her sister before stating, "And you cannot believe he has any serious design on our dear Jane Bennet."

"I feel he is in a very great danger, Louisa," Miss Bingley declared seriously. "She is a sweet face with a pleasant disposition, and I fear our brother is becoming wholly enamored."

Mrs. Hurst looked thoughtful for a moment, and then answered, "Perhaps we might speak with him, Caroline. We must make certain he recognizes how inappropriate of a choice Jane is."

Miss Bingley assented gravely and turned back to the window, where her attention was captured by the approaching forms of her brother and Mr. Darcy.

Smiling broadly, she declared, "Ah, here they are now."

Miss Bingley walked quickly to a small gilt mirror near the door, and assured herself of her appearance before rushing to the front hall. She slowed her step as she heard the gentlemen enter, and quickly greeted them.

"Charles, Mr. Darcy," she called sweetly. "We feared we would be without you indefinitely!"

Turning the corner and entering the hall, Miss Bingley stopped abruptly when she heard her brother address Mr. Darcy urgently.

"Be reasonable, Darcy," Bingley declared as he followed his friend through the door. "If it is as Miss Elizabeth said and Wickham has been working against you, how do you expect to sway the populace? It seems as if he is a favorite with everyone."

Miss Bingley watched in wonder as Mr. Darcy reared unhappily on her brother and stated sternly, "That is his way, Bingley; to give all the appearance of goodness, while possessing none of it. That is what makes him so dangerous."

As Bingley removed his greatcoat, he said sadly, "Miss King cannot know what Wickham is."

Darcy shook his head thoughtfully and answered, "I fear no one does, and it is wholly my fault."

With this, the two gentlemen retreated to Bingley's study, and Miss Bingley watched curiously as the door closed firmly behind them. Frowning deeply, she was most seriously displeased to discover that Mr. Darcy had been speaking with Eliza Bennet.

‘Do not be so fretful, Caroline,' she chastised herself. ‘Do you really believe a man like Mr. Darcy could form any serious design on Eliza Bennet? However would someone like her be mistress to such a great estate?'

This thought did little to comfort Miss Bingley, for even if Mr. Darcy did not intend to marry Eliza Bennet, his obvious interest in her welfare was just as troubling. Miss Bingley wondered at the subject of her brother and Mr. Darcy's discussion, and stamping her foot angrily, swept toward the parlor to speak with her sister.

Jane stepped out the door and squinted into the sunlight, attempting to discern which way her sister had wandered. Elizabeth had retreated out of doors over an hour ago, and Jane's concern began to grow, for she knew Elizabeth often hid herself away when she was feeling her most desolate. It had been her way since her illness, and Jane had always surmised it was because Elizabeth did not wish to give her family any more worry over her welfare. During Elizabeth's illness, Mr. Jones had given the family little hope of her survival. He had told their father that he had never seen the fever take hold in such a way, and declared that if he should attempt to bleed Elizabeth, she would most certainly be finished by it. Their father was forced to simply wait and pray, as he held watch over his precious daughter.

That week had been particularly painful for Jane, for she could be of no help to her beloved sister, and was taken away from Longbourn. Jane remembered crying to her mother as she was forced into the carriage that would bear her to Gracechurch Street, that she did not care for her own safety, and only wished to be with Elizabeth. Jane had wept daily, and her breath caught painfully each time a post carriage passed, fearing that one would carry news of Elizabeth's death. When an express arrived declaring that Elizabeth was out of danger, tears filled Jane's eyes, and she clutched the paper to her heart as she related its contents to her family. Her father had not related the news of Elizabeth's loss of sight, for Mr. Jones had hoped it would improve with time, but when Jane had arrived home with the rest of the party, Elizabeth's sight had vanished completely.

After a month of being confined to her bed, Elizabeth was able to return downstairs, and the slow process of settling into her new circumstances began. Their mother bustled about Elizabeth, insisting she dress warmly and leading her away from drafts. Yet with each day, Jane noticed the unhappy look in her mother's face grow each time she looked at her second eldest. Though she and Elizabeth had rarely agreed, Mrs. Bennet had had great hopes for her. Mr. Jones believed Elizabeth to be healthy, but he determined that her sight would never return. Jane recognized that with Elizabeth's blindness, their mother's hopes had vanished, and Mrs. Bennet began to fear heartily for Elizabeth's prospects.

In the weeks that followed, Jane watched in wonder as Elizabeth worked tirelessly to memorize the house; moving her fingers deliberately and repeatedly over every wall, door, and picture and painstakingly counting her steps through every room. She did so independently, and vehemently refused assistance when it was offered. Jane could not recall Elizabeth weeping at any time during the dark time that followed her illness, but noticed a change in her sister that went unperceived by others. Elizabeth, who had once been open with her emotions, hopes, and fears, became more pensive, preferring solitude to the company of her sisters. Though she maintained her unyielding spirit and kindness, Elizabeth seemed unwilling to share her concerns, fearing to give any more trouble to her family, for she believed they had endured enough.

It was several weeks before Elizabeth approached Jane one morning after breakfast with a request.

"Jane," she had said seriously. "Would you accompany me on a walk today?"

Jane readily assented to the plan, happy that her sister wished to continue one of her favorite diversions. After ensuring Elizabeth was sufficiently warm against the chill of the late December air, the two sisters left the house.

Elizabeth halted just outside the door, and breathed deeply before declaring, "Do you mind terribly if we walk slowly?"

Jane looked at her sister with worry, and said, "Lizzy, if you feel yourself not yet equal to a walk, perhaps we should return inside."

Elizabeth smiled slightly, and stated firmly, "No, Jane, I feel perfectly capable of walking. I only wish to walk slowly so that I might study our path."

Jane looked at her sister curiously before recognizing her sister's intent of learning her way so that she might walk out on her own again. Smiling broadly, Jane happily agreed and linked arms with Elizabeth as the two made their way around the house. In the days that followed, Mr. Bennet joined them on their walks, and together, Elizabeth rediscovered Longbourn's park. It was several months before Elizabeth felt confident in her ability to venture out alone, but Jane noted that with each walk, the happy glow of Elizabeth's eyes returned and strengthened, and Jane thanked God for it.

It was these thoughts that occupied Jane as she walked slowly across Longbourn's lawn, her eyes scanning the landscape for Elizabeth's form. Nearing the small wilderness behind her father's estate, Jane noticed Elizabeth not far off, sitting on a stone bench surrounded by a patch of ivy. Her anxiety quieted by the sight of her sister, Jane's breathing relaxed and she approached Elizabeth.

"There you are, Lizzy," she called gently. "You certainly have a talent for hiding."

Elizabeth turned her face in the direction of her sister's voice and declared, "I must not be as proficient as you say, for you found me."

Jane reached Elizabeth's side, and gazing at her sister, stated, "That is only because I know where to look."

Elizabeth smiled softly, and invited Jane to sit beside her. Jane smoothed her skirts, and looked toward her sister to study her.

"Do not look at me that way, Jane," Elizabeth said firmly. "You are teaching Mary to worry for me as you do, and I must say, the two of you are exhausting."

Jane smiled at Elizabeth's depiction of their concern for her, and declared gently, "We only worry for your happiness, and have noticed you are not yourself as of late. We would be foolish beings indeed if we did not care for our sister."

Elizabeth grinned slightly and said, "I know, and I am grateful for your care."

Jane bit her lip fretfully, for she knew their mother's heedless comment in front of the gentlemen had unsettled Elizabeth heartily. Hoping to ascertain Elizabeth's feelings, Jane stated, "Do not be too angry with Mama, Lizzy."

Jane's suspicions were confirmed when Elizabeth's countenance darkened and she rose from the bench quickly. Jane watched as Elizabeth paced agitatedly in front of her while twisting a piece of ivy in her hands.

"It is utterly mortifying, Jane!" she exclaimed. "To make certain that the company knows of my ‘limitations' and then to treat them so lightly!"

Jane shook her head sadly and declared, "I am certain she meant no harm, Elizabeth."

Elizabeth crossed her arms unhappily, and admitted that she knew their mother had no maliciousness about her, only thoughtlessness.

"Will you go then, Lizzy?" Jane asked hopefully. "Mr. Bingley seemed very intent on your coming.'

Elizabeth turned toward her sister and said quietly, "I do not know, Jane."

Jane leapt to her feet and pressed Elizabeth's hand urgently, stating, "Oh, please do, Lizzy. I will be so happy to have you with me."

Elizabeth turned her face thoughtfully to the sky and whispered nervously, "There will be so many people there."

Jane placed her hands on each side of Elizabeth's face, and forced her sister to turn toward her.

"And they will all be enchanted with you, dear sister," Jane said gently.

Elizabeth smiled slightly and removed Jane's hands from her face and held them in her own before saying, "I suppose one benefit of my blindness is that I do not have to see their curious stares. I do fear hearing their censure, though."

Jane smiled comfortingly and declared, "It will be civilized company, Lizzy. Surely there will be no censure."

Elizabeth refrained from stating that if it was the civilized company Caroline Bingley was accustomed to, they would not be so accepting. Instead, Elizabeth smiled slightly and agreed that her sister was correct.

"Besides," Elizabeth continued, "if you and Charlotte are with me, I have nothing to fear. I will know for certain that I at least have two friends there."

Jane grinned in delight and said, "And Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley will be there as well. Surely you may count them among your friends, Lizzy."

Elizabeth nodded her head, and thought on Mr. Darcy's swift departure. She worried that her mother's ill-treatment of him and her sisters' declarations regarding Mr. Wickham drove him away. Hoping their unfortunate behavior did not lower her in his estimation, Elizabeth turned to her sister.

"Do you think Mr. Darcy was very offended by our mother?" she asked tentatively, for she feared Jane's answer.

Jane looked thoughtful and declared, "If he was, he is far too much a gentleman to let it be known. Let us hope he truly did have a matter of business to attend to."

"I hope so," Elizabeth answered quietly.

Jane studied her sister and noted how Elizabeth turned her face fretfully to the ground, a light blush of worry coloring her cheeks.

Taking a deep breath, Jane prepared herself to admit what she had long thought, and stated simply, "You care for him, Lizzy."

Elizabeth turned toward her sister in surprise, and willing her voice steady, proclaimed, "I care only if our mother offended him."

Jane looked out toward the lawn and declared, "If all you and Mr. Bingley tell me about him is true, Mr. Darcy is a very worthy young man, and I give you leave for liking him."

Elizabeth sighed heavily and said, "Can you truly believe a man of Mr. Darcy's wealth and consequence could form a serious attachment with me?"

Jane reached for Elizabeth's hand and said gently, "I only believe that I have never seen you so pleased with another individual's company."

Elizabeth removed her hand from Jane's in frustration, and stood quickly from her seat. Turning toward her sister, she said seriously, "I cannot deny that I find enjoyment in his company, but I cannot, will not, deceive myself into believing there is any more in his attentions than friendship."

Jane thought of how intently Mr. Darcy gazed at her sister, and how she had observed he often spoke only to Elizabeth when in company. Sighing thoughtfully, Jane declared, "Mr. Darcy is a man of independent mind; let him determine whether his attentions stem merely from friendship. Do not discourage him by withdrawing from his company."

Elizabeth turned unhappily toward her sister and asked evenly, "You would have me risk my heart so easily?"

"No, Lizzy," answered Jane, "I would only have you remain his friend, and learn more about him before forming such a firm resolve against him."

Elizabeth sighed doubtfully before nodding slightly and returning to her sister's side.

Smiling faintly, she asked, "Is he at all handsome, Jane?"

Jane laughed lightly and declared, "Yes, I believe Mr. Bingley is very pleasant looking."

Elizabeth turned in surprise toward her sister and exclaimed, "And you dare to call Papa incorrigible!"

Jane laughed more heartily at this, and said between her giggles, "In living daily with the two of you, it was inevitable that I learn a few things."

Elizabeth laughed, and Jane smiled, happy to see her sister's spirits returned.

After a moment, she said gently, "Your Mr. Darcy is very handsome, Lizzy."

Jane was gratified to see Elizabeth smile softly at this intelligence, and the two sisters lapsed into a pleasant silence.

Darcy reared his horse to a slow trot as he entered Meryton and studied the dimly lit buildings. The weak flicker of lanterns made discerning the signs difficult, but when his eyes alighted on the small inn, he coaxed his horse forward. Several of the town's merchants talked merrily in front of the edifice, but were silenced by Darcy's approach studying the stranger's elegant dress and powerful stallion. One of the gentlemen quickly discerned that the stranger could only be the Mr. Darcy who was presently residing at Netherfield. Bowing slightly, the gentlemen greeted Darcy quietly. Darcy nodded his head in recognition, and dismounting quickly, drew himself to his full height. The men watched in wonder as Darcy passed by them silently to enter the inn.

Darcy smiled slightly as he heard one of the men say, "Well, he is a frightening fellow."

Closing the door firmly behind him, Darcy studied the room; his dark eyes scanning the tables and their occupants. He became discouraged when he saw no sign of Wickham, and moved to depart, but halted when he heard a familiar boisterous laugh. Unconsciously, Darcy's eyes narrowed unhappily and his fists tightened on his riding crop as he turned to see Wickham laughing heartily with another soldier at a table near the back. The barman watched Darcy curiously, and asked if he needed assistance. Darcy shook his head slightly and crossed the room toward Wickham, and soon recognized Wickham's companion as the soldier who had accompanied him the other day.

Approaching silently, Darcy was soon near enough to hear the other soldier declare, "I would never have presumed you such a romantic as to make an offer to Miss King so quickly."

Darcy watched Wickham smile and drink from his tankard before answering, "I am no romantic, Denny, but consider myself a rather practical creature."

"Practical?" Denny asked loudly. "She is a pretty young thing to be sure, but I would not call marrying her practical."

Wickham set his tankard upon the table and leaned forward, stating seriously, "She is pretty enough I grant you, but is rendered far more appealing by a certain asset."

Denny raised his brow and inquired, "And what might that asset be?"

Wickham sat back in his chair and declared happily, "Her newly acquired fortune, of course."

Darcy paled in anger, and Denny laughed lightly, saying, "You are a practical creature, Wickham. I agree that such an asset would render any girl handsome."

Denny raised his glass and said, "I wish you happiness, my friend."

Wickham smiled, thanking Denny for his good wishes, and raised his own drink to his lips, but halted when he noticed Darcy's form standing behind Denny.

Paling slightly, Wickham took a gulp from his tankard before declaring, "Darcy, what brings you to this fine establishment? Have you condescended to sample the local fare?"

"I would speak with you, Wickham," Darcy stated evenly.

Denny turned in wonder toward the voice of the new arrival, and shrank back slightly when he noticed Darcy's tall form standing over him.

Unsettled by Darcy's serious tone, Wickham quickly asserted, "You should wish me joy, Darcy. I am to be married soon."

Darcy's jaw tightened as he watched a small smile spread across Wickham's face. Drawing himself up to his full height, he said quietly, "I have been made aware of that fact."

Wishing to quell the rising tension, Denny asked, "Will you not congratulate Wickham, sir?"

Darcy glanced briefly at the young soldier and asserted, "I most certainly will not."

Denny looked quickly to Wickham's face to ascertain how he received such an affront, and was surprised to see Wickham smiling merrily.

"Then allow me congratulate you, Darcy," Wickham declared.

Darcy looked at Wickham curiously and asked, "Congratulate me for what, Wickham?"

Wickham smiled slowly and answered, "Why your engagement to your cousin, of course. I am certain your aunt is most heartily pleased."

Darcy studied Wickham darkly and said, "You have always known my thoughts on that account. I am not engaged to my cousin, nor shall I ever be."

Wickham's eyes widened, and he looked at the gentleman in front of him in mock surprise, exclaiming, "Why I must have been mistaken! How unfortunate then, I should have mentioned it to Miss Elizabeth Bennet."

He was pleased by the look of alarm that appeared on Darcy's face and continued, "I hope it will not cause any discomfort for you."

Darcy remained silent, praying that he would soon have the opportunity to speak with Elizabeth. He reflected on her pale complexion the last time they had met, and wondered if it was due to Wickham's lie.

‘What if it was?' he asked himself.

His reverie was interrupted by Wickham's confident voice addressing him.

"Come now, Darcy," Wickham declared. "Have a drink with us, and let us make amends."

Wickham looked toward Denny before continuing, "I will forgive you heartily, Darcy, if you would only ask."

Darcy's brow furrowed angrily, but he quieted his rising resentment and proclaimed, "I thank you for the offer, but you will forgive me if I decline."

Wickham laughed lightly and asserted, "You never could enjoy the pleasures of life, could you Darcy?"

"I could not enjoy them as you do, Wickham," he answered darkly. "Nor do I have any desire to."

Denny watched the two gentlemen in wonder, and noted that Darcy's color heightened as Wickham's paled with each of Darcy's words. Feeling himself unequal to remaining at his friend's side during such a time, Denny quickly rose from his seat.

"Ah, I see Saunderson has arrived," he declared nervously. "I have an important matter to discuss with him, if you will excuse me."

With that, he fled across the room and glanced back only long enough to see Darcy leaning on the table and whispering harshly at Wickham.

"What do you intend by arriving in Hertfordshire?" Darcy demanded quietly.

Wickham gestured to his regimentals and said confidently, "I was commanded here by king and country. What purpose is there in your being here?"

Ignoring Wickham's impertinence, Darcy stated evenly, "You wore no uniform the other day. I have no doubt that you sought a post in the regiment to flee from creditors."

Wickham's gaze narrowed slightly and he declared, "If I did, whose fault might that be?"

Darcy slammed his riding crop to the table loudly and proclaimed unhappily, "You will not blame me for your errors, Wickham, nor will I see them rectified. I am no fool; your marrying Miss King is calculating and crass."

Wickham's brow rose in alarm and he said, "You take a very keen interest my affairs, Darcy."

Darcy scoffed, and straightening, confessed, "I stopped taking an interest in your affairs years ago. My only interest is for those who would be injured by your selfishness."

"Always righteous," Wickham said quietly as he settled back into his seat. "Does your protection now extend to strangers? Or perhaps it even extends to the families of country gentlemen?"

Darcy's mouth set in a grim line as Wickham continued, "Perhaps it is meant for a certain family of five daughters. Is there one you fancy, Darcy?"

Darcy blushed slightly and dropped his gaze briefly to the floor, only to hear Wickham laugh lightly.

"Now that is an entertaining thought," Wickham said happily, "the master of Pemberley, the richest men in the north of England, marrying a country miss with no fortune."

Darcy raised his head and stated evenly, "I do not know to what you are referring."

"You do not?" Wickham asked; his voice filled with irony. "I only hope it is Miss Lydia, for she is by far the most amusing. Although, Miss Elizabeth has the most beauty; however, I suppose her infirmity detracts from it."

"Do not speak of them," Darcy said vehemently as he glared unhappily at Wickham.

Though troubled by the resentment in Darcy's voice, Wickham could not help but continue, stating, "For myself, I have always preferred the young and spirited."

Darcy gripped the rough wood of the table, his hand shaking with the force of his anger.

Happy to see his old friend so unsettled, Wickham asked, "How is dear Georgiana?"

The movement was far too fast for Wickham to avoid, and he watched in shock as Darcy leapt from his chair and gripped him tightly about the collar before hauling him up from his seat.

"You will never say her name," Darcy said dangerously as his hands tensed against the rough wool of Wickham's coat. "You relinquished that right and any chance of my family's friendship last summer."

Wickham looked alarmingly at the man in front of him, suddenly aware of Darcy's height and strength. Glancing over his shoulder, he noticed the entire company staring at them in wonder and Denny standing nearby, prepared to give assistance.

Smirking slightly, Wickham turned back to Darcy and said quietly, "Think what you are doing, Darcy. If you look about the room, I do not believe you will find a single friend. To these people, it looks as if you attack me without cause."

Darcy gazed up, his eyes scanning the anxious faces around him, and he unhappily determined that Wickham spoke the truth. Unwilling to satisfy Wickham so easily, Darcy tightened his grip and brought his face near Wickham's ear.

"There will be a reckoning for you, my friend," Darcy whispered calmly. "I will see to it."

Darcy released Wickham's collar and snatched up his riding crop. Wickham fell heavily upon his seat, and Darcy gave him one final stare before walking quickly away. He stopped upon reaching the door when he heard Wickham address the room.

"Fitzwilliam Darcy," Wickham called, raising his tankard, "always a gentleman."

Refusing to raise his eyes or turn back, Darcy departed and closed the door firmly behind him. He tipped his hat to the gentlemen he had seen when he entered the inn some minutes before, and walked to his horse. Leaning his head for a moment against the horse's black neck in an effort to calm himself, Darcy breathed deeply and noted unhappily how his hand shook with emotion. Sighing in frustration, Darcy climbed to his saddle and rode swiftly toward Netherfield.

Sleep did nothing to abate Mrs. Bennet's indignation over Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy's early departure. Much to the surprise of her family, and to the delight of her husband, Mrs. Bennet remained silent for most of the evening, brooding quietly over her ruined meal and carefully planned seating arrangement. By morning, however, she seemed prepared to relate her displeasure to anyone who would hear her.

"To take him away so quickly," she cried as Hill attended her, "it is very cruel. A perfectly good fish wasted!"

Hill smiled slightly at her mistress' irritation and said calmly, "There will be other opportunities to have the young man to dinner, madam."

Mrs. Bennet turned swiftly to her housekeeper and exclaimed, "There may not be, if Lady Lucas has anything to do with it! Surely she will parade her daughters in front of Mr. Bingley at the ball!"

Hill shook her head, but remained silent.

Mrs. Bennet looked thoughtfully at her reflection and then announced, "The girls shall have new gowns, Jane especially! I will not be outdone by Lady Lucas!"

Hill quietly reminded Mrs. Bennet that Lady Lucas had been a good friend of the Bennets for some years, but Mrs. Bennet waved her hand dismissively and asked Hill to fetch Mr. Bennet immediately. Hill curtseyed and left the room. On entering the hallway, Hill heard her mistress clap her hands excitedly, and shaking her head in resignation, she ventured down the hallway to see how Sarah progressed with the eldest Miss Bennets. As she approached the door to Miss Elizabeth's room, she heard the two sisters talking animatedly and Sarah laughing softly. Hill smiled at this evidence of her young mistresses' goodness, and proceeded downstairs to fetch her master.

By the time the family sat to breakfast, it had already been decided that the girls would have new gowns, and the sisters, except Mary, who cared little for such things, talked happily about patterns and fabrics.

Mr. Collins, who was very intimidated by the discussion of young ladies' fashion, said tentatively, "Though I know little of such things, I have heard many say that Lady Catherine is the epitome of fashion. I believe all of her and her daughter's gowns come from seamstresses in Paris."

Mrs. Bennet exclaimed happily, and quickly applied to Mr. Collins for complete descriptions of the gowns as Lydia and Catherine listened attentively. Jane looked on serenely, while Mary shook her head at their silliness.

Elizabeth had wished to inquire after her father of his impressions of Mr. Darcy, but was prevented the previous day by Mrs. Bennet's vehement disapproval of that gentleman. Pleased with her mother's distraction, Elizabeth turned eagerly to her father and addressed him.

"Did you enjoy your shooting party yesterday, sir?" she asked pleasantly.

Mr. Bennet smiled at his daughter and declared, "I did indeed, Lizzy. I do not get to indulge myself in sport nearly as often as I should wish."

Elizabeth smiled and pressed further, stating, "Then the company was to your liking as well."

Mr. Bennet sat back in his seat and answered, "It most certainly was. I expected Mr. Bingley to be a fine fellow, but after your mother and sisters' unflattering reports of Mr. Darcy, I half expected to see an ogre on my doorstep."

Elizabeth frowned slightly, but was pleased when her father continued, "I found him interesting and pleasant enough; he is certainly too serious, but I suspect that is only due to being made responsible for so many at such a young age."

Elizabeth smiled gently at this sign of her father's approval and asked, "Did you have any good discussion then? I know how fond you are of good conversation."

"Remarkably intelligent," Mr. Bennet stated before glancing at his cousin. "Well, two of the party were able to engage in intelligent discussion."

"Papa," Elizabeth quietly admonished her father, though she could not help but smile widely at her father's obvious displeasure with Mr. Collins.

Mr. Bennet returned his attention to his plate and added, "Mr. Bingley is an agreeable young man, very pleasant and eager to please, but I believe his friend has a bit more wit than him. I was pleased to discover Mr. Darcy is a lover of poetry like us, Lizzy."

Elizabeth blushed slightly at this declaration, her mind turning to the volume that rested next to her bed. She remained silent, and willed herself to remain composed.

"Mr. Bingley tells me that Mr. Darcy is also a fine chess player, though the man himself humbly denied it," Mr. Bennet said thoughtfully, pleased to discover another opponent so nearby. "I will need to challenge him to a match. If he is a worthy enough player, you may challenge him, Lizzy."

Elizabeth turned her face in surprise toward her father and declared, "That would be highly improper, Papa."

Mr. Bennet's brow furrowed and he asked, "Why ever would it be improper? It is only a game."

Elizabeth bit her lip in thought and said, "Mama would certainly disapprove. She does not like my ‘unfeminine' pursuits, as you well know."

Mr. Bennet waved his hand to dismiss the thought and stated, "If I listened at all to your mother's disapproval, you would never have learned the game. And, I might add, you would only be able to speak one of the fashionable languages, rather than Latin."

Elizabeth shook her head slightly, and smiled at her father's enthusiasm for her education. He had always invested himself in her studies, but after her illness, increased his efforts, teaching her subjects that were often considered useless for the female sex. She grinned slightly as she remembered her mother's unhappiness the day she first heard her discussing philosophy with him. Elizabeth's thoughts were interrupted by Lydia's addressing her.

"You will come to the ball then, Lizzy?" she asked curiously. "You have never attended before."

Before Elizabeth could answer, Mrs. Bennet tightly added, "Mr. Bingley requested her presence specifically, so Lizzy must come."

Elizabeth turned toward her mother, wondering at her unhappy tone.

"You will just adore it, Lizzy!" cried Catherine excitedly. "Although you cannot dance, the conversation and company are thrilling!"

Lydia snorted lightly and declared, "I do not think I should wish to attend a ball if I was prevented from dancing."

"I am very fond of dancing, though a clergyman has very little opportunity to indulge in such an entertainment," Mr. Collins announced.

Ignoring her cousin's admission, and displeased with her sister's heedless dismissal of her, Elizabeth asserted, "I would much prefer intelligent conversation to dancing with a soldier."

Lydia looked at her sister in wonder, shocked that someone could feel there was anything more pleasant than being in the company of the regiment.

Hoping to quell the tension at his table, for he disapproved of confrontation interrupting his peaceful morning, Mr. Bennet said, "Jane, Lizzy, I hope you will venture to the dressmaker today. I would see that the two of you have your gowns first."

"Papa!" Lydia and Catherine cried in unison, unhappy to be made to wait.

Mr. Bennet smiled calmly, and returned to his attention to his meal.

Elizabeth moved her hand slowly over the fabric, feeling the embroidered vines and small beading that traced along its edge.

Smiling slightly, she asked the clerk, "And the color of this one?"

The woman smiled softly and said, "It is a light cream. It would be very attractive for an evening occasion."

Elizabeth bit her lip thoughtfully, for she was unaccustomed to fashion. She often chose her gowns because of their texture, and depended on Jane to determine the cut.

Turning toward her sister, Elizabeth asked, "What do you think, Jane?"

Jane approached the fabric and after assessing its quality for a moment, declared, "I think it will be very pretty on you, Lizzy."

The clerk nodded happily and stated, "Indeed, miss. If I may say so, it will compliment your complexion very well."

Elizabeth thanked the woman for her compliment and agreed on the purchase. Once she and Jane were measured and their styles chosen, they made their way outside.

"I am certain you will look very fine in blue, Jane," Elizabeth said happily as she linked her arm through her sister's. "Mama may be right after all; Mr. Bingley may prefer that color above all others!"

Shaking her head and blushing slightly, Jane declared, "I did not choose the color for Mr. Bingley. I happen to like blue."

Elizabeth patted Jane's hand gently and apologized for her joke, but her attention was soon arrested by a familiar voice greeting them, and Elizabeth frowned slightly.

"Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth," Wickham said merrily. "What a pleasure to see you today."

He bowed gallantly and the two sisters quietly wished him a good day. Much to Elizabeth's displeasure, he fell in beside them as they continued their walk.

"May I ask what brings you to Meryton on a fine day such as this?" he asked, his voice pleasant and confident.

"We had some preparations to attend to before Mr. Bingley's ball," Jane answered politely.

Wickham looked intently at Elizabeth and declared, "I am happy you will be in attendance, Miss Elizabeth, for I have missed our conversations."

Elizabeth said calmly, "I thank you for your politeness, sir, but I am certain you have been much occupied with your engagement. May we congratulate you and wish you happiness?"

Wickham smiled slightly and confessed, "Thank you for your well wishes, but you must think it rather strange for me to engage myself so quickly."

"Not at all," Elizabeth stated evenly. "I understand that handsome young men must have something to live on, as much as the plain ones."

Displeased by this reference to Miss King's fortune, Wickham paled slightly and declared quietly, "Thank you for your understanding."

Elizabeth nodded and excused herself and Jane, saying, "Mr. Wickham, we were just on our way to our Aunt Philips and would not wish to keep her waiting."

Wickham bowed low and said merrily, "Do not let me keep you ladies. I wish you a pleasant day, and look forward to seeing you at the ball."

Turning on his heel, he swiftly departed, and Jane immediately exclaimed, "He means attend the ball, Lizzy!"

Elizabeth shook her head and asserted, "I cannot see to what purpose, for he must know Mr. Darcy will be in attendance. I imagine it is only to please Miss King and her uncle."

Jane readily agreed, and Elizabeth continued, "I feel we must speak with our father soon so that he might discourage Lydia and Kitty from conversing with Mr. Wickham at the ball."

Jane nodded fretfully and declared, "This whole business distresses me greatly, Lizzy."

Elizabeth smiled, and hoping to calm her sister's gentle nature, said, "I am certain our father will know how to act."

When Jane and Elizabeth rounded the drive and came in view of Longbourn, Jane gasped in surprise and halted their progress when she noticed Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy bow in farewell to their father before mounting their horses.

"What is it, Jane?" asked Elizabeth, turning in wonder toward her sister for Jane was rarely unsettled by anything.

Jane urgently whispered, "It is Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy, and they are coming toward us."

Elizabeth paled momentarily, but composed herself as she heard the gentlemen's horses halt in front of them.

"A good day to you both!" Bingley exclaimed happily, raising his hat.

Elizabeth heard Mr. Darcy quietly greet them as well as his friend dismounted to speak with them.

"We came to offer our apologies to your mother for our hasty departure yesterday," Bingley said anxiously, turning slightly toward his silent friend. "It must have seemed very rude indeed."

Jane smiled comfortingly, and looking toward Mr. Darcy, declared, "Not at all, sir. We hope Mr. Darcy's business was completed successfully."

Darcy tore his eyes from Elizabeth's face, and blushing slightly, lowered himself from his horse before answering, "It was, Miss Bennet. Thank you for your concern."

Bingley smiled broadly and gazed happily at Jane, saying, "We were very sorry to hear you were from home, and feared we would miss seeing you on our visit..."

Noticing how Mr. Bingley's voice trailed off thoughtlessly, and that his obvious distraction was caused by Jane's presence, Elizabeth bit her lip to quell her laughter. She heard Mr. Darcy lightly clear his throat to remind his friend to continue speaking.

Shaking his head slightly and blushing furiously, Bingley declared, "That is, your mother informed us of your and Miss Elizabeth's absence. Was your trip to Meryton successful?"

Jane smiled gently and Elizabeth imagined her sister's color heightened on being addressed by Mr. Bingley.

Feeling herself more capable of answering, Elizabeth smiled wryly and said, "It was indeed, sir. We were just making a few purchases in anticipation for your ball."

Turning happily to Elizabeth, Bingley asked, "You will come then, Miss Elizabeth?"

"I will be happy to attend, sir," she answered, smiling at his genuine entreaty.

"Excellent," Bingley exclaimed. "I am certain we will all have a merry time."

Bingley offered to carry the package in Jane's arms and escort her back to the house. Jane happily accepted his assistance, and the two walked off happily, heedless of leaving Darcy and Elizabeth behind. Elizabeth listened to their retreating footsteps, and turned to address her companion.

"I hope you are well, Mr. Darcy," she said tentatively, for she had not spoken with him since her mother's unfortunate treatment of him.

Smiling gently, Darcy answered, "I am well, Miss Bennet, thank you."

Elizabeth was displeased when he fell silent, and she anxiously turned the toe of her half boot into the gravel in the hopes of calming her nervousness. Darcy stood rigidly, and twisting his ring idly, thought on how he could broach the subject of his supposed engagement. Unsatisfied with any attempt, he offered to escort her into the house. Elizabeth accepted quietly, and Darcy took her raised hand to guide it to his arm. He held it for a moment more than was necessary, reflecting on how small it was and how he could feel its warmth through her glove.

Shaking his head slightly, he reproached himself, thinking, 'You are but a moment in her company, and you are already a heedless fool! Speak man!'

Willing himself to be calm, and securing Elizabeth's hand at his elbow, he asked, "Have you had an opportunity to finish your reading of ‘The Nightingale?'"

Elizabeth blushed slightly, for she had yet to develop the courage to approach her father with the volume of poetry.

"I am afraid I have not," she said unhappily. "My father has not had the opportunity to read with me as of late. I am sorry; you must be wishing your book returned."

Darcy shook his head and declared, "Not at all; I have read it many times. You are welcome to keep it for as long as necessary."

Elizabeth thanked him and said, "I promise to keep it safe, for it seems a very fine volume."

Darcy smiled and admitted, "I have no fears on that score, Miss Bennet. I hope you enjoy it."

Darcy looked ahead and noticed that Bingley and Miss Bennet strayed from the path toward the gardens and Darcy shook his head in wonder at his friend's behavior. He studied the pair for a moment, and noted how Miss Bennet smiled softly at Bingley as he spoke and how she blushed in his presence. Wondering if this was evidence of a deeper affection than he believed she originally possessed, he studied them more intently, but his attention was interrupted by Elizabeth's addressing him.

"Is your sister well, Mr. Darcy?" she asked sincerely, for she had worried for the young girl since Mr. Darcy had related the unhappy history of his friendship with Mr. Wickham.

Darcy turned to her fully and studied her for a moment. When he encountered Elizabeth's eyes he was pleased to find a sincerity in them he rarely encountered, and he admitted to himself that he hoped Georgiana could one day make her acquaintance.

"She is well, Miss Bennet," he answered quietly. "I had a letter from her the other day, and while her spirits seem by no means mended, she sounds very pleased with her place in London and her new companion."

Elizabeth nodded happily, and Darcy continued nervously, "It seems that your sister and my friend have taken the path toward the garden. Would you care to join them?"

Darcy was pleased when Elizabeth assented to the plan, and he handed his horse off quickly to the groom before securing Elizabeth's hand on his arm once again. The two walked silently across the drive and only spoke when they reached the lawn.

"I am pleased you will be attending the ball," Darcy ventured gently.

Elizabeth smiled slightly and declared, "Jane is as well, but I confess I am rather nervous for it."

"Whatever for?" Darcy asked curiously. "You seem entirely at ease in company."

Elizabeth acknowledged the truth in his statement, but added quietly, "I am only anxious to meet with those who do not know me."

Darcy's brow furrowed slightly until he recognized the cause of her discomfiture; she feared the reproof of strangers just as he did.

Hoping to calm her anxiety, Darcy confessed, "Perhaps neither of us performs for strangers."

"You, Mr. Darcy?" Elizabeth asked as she turned toward her companion in surprise. "Why ever would a man of sense and education fear being in the company of strangers?"

Darcy smiled slightly, recognizing that she was correct, and declared, "I suppose I have always been thus."

"I never would have thought it," Elizabeth said in wonder, returning her attention to her steps.

Darcy noticed a stone bench not far off, and guided their direction toward it, while asking, "Is it so very shocking, Miss Bennet, that I am uncomfortable with those I do not know?"

"No, no, that is not what I meant," she declared quickly. "It is just not how I imagined you."

Darcy's brow rose curiously and he asked, "And how do you imagine me, Miss Bennet?"

Elizabeth smiled at the amusement in his voice and said, "I must create my portraits from limited resources, sir, so my renderings are not always accurate."

Darcy nodded slightly and inquired, "What resources do you use then?"

He watched as Elizabeth bit her lip thoughtfully before answering, "I suppose I read what I hear in the voice of an individual; their tastes, expressions, and opinions."

"Do you study anything else?" he asked, his interest rising with this intelligence.

"The way someone treats his or her fellow man is also very telling," she said simply.

Darcy smiled gently and told her that he agreed with her heartily. Upon reaching the bench and seeing her seated, he asked, "And how have you rendered me, Miss Bennet?"

Turning her face toward him, Elizabeth said sincerely, "I do not get on at all."

Darcy looked at his hands in disappointment and listened as she continued, "I suppose I have not been able to confidently determine any of your traits."

"I see," he said quietly. "I assume our acquaintance is too new for you to have any expectations of my character."

Startled by the sadness in his voice, Elizabeth quickly added, "I speak of physical traits, Mr. Darcy. Of your character I am already certain."

She blushed furiously at her admission, and turned her face toward the ground to hide her mortification. Darcy, however, looked hopefully toward her, feeling now fully confident that she had given no credit to Wickham's assertions about his past with the Darcy family.

Smiling slightly, he declared, "You must have some idea for how I look, Miss Bennet."

Elizabeth turned toward her companion, and smiling impishly, sought to relieve her embarrassment by teasing him, stating, "I suppose I do, sir."

Darcy inquired what thoughts she had, and Elizabeth said seriously, "You are short and pink in the face, to be sure."

Darcy's eyes widened and he stared at her with his mouth agape, before closing it unhappily and feeling his color heighten from the offense. As he brooded, Elizabeth began laughing softly. Darcy turned toward her in confusion, before recognizing the merriment that shown in her eyes and the blush of good humor that spread across her face.

Smiling slightly, he said dryly, "You are very cruel, Miss Bennet."

Elizabeth laughed more heartily at this, and it was some moments before she composed herself to speak. Darcy watched her contently, wholly enchanted by the brightness of her green eyes.

Breathing steadily, Elizabeth asserted, "Indeed, Mr. Darcy, I am heartily sorry for my joke. Jane often tells me I am highly impertinent."

Darcy waved his hand dismissively and declared, "I am not offended, Miss Bennet, but I am very troubled by such a portrait. Pray, do whatever you must to draw a more accurate picture of me."

Elizabeth's laughter halted and her smile diminished slightly as she admitted, "I could not, sir, for it would be highly improper."

Darcy's brow furrowed, and believing she would only ask him more questions to sketch his character, said, "You could not offend me in any way, Miss Bennet."

Elizabeth wrung her hands thoughtfully, and after some moments, removed one of her gloves and turned toward her companion determinedly. Her curiosity winning over her sense of propriety, she raised a hand to Darcy's face. He watched in wonder as her delicate hand moved toward him, and when her fingers encountered his jaw, he started slightly, shocked by the warmth he felt. He looked to Elizabeth, seeing her eyes turned downward in thought and her mouth set in firm determination.

Hoping to quell his rapid heartbeat, Darcy asked, his voice quavering, "Can you see me now, Miss Bennet?"

He watched as Elizabeth nodded slightly, and he closed his eyes as she moved her fingers up his cheek to his brow. Elizabeth's mind raced with the sensations she was feeling, and though she feared he may be offended by her actions, she could not force her hand from his face. She memorized the line of his jaw, pleased to find it so strong. Elizabeth smiled gently, and admitted to herself that it fit his voice very well. As she moved her fingers over his brow, she imagined he possessed piercing eyes, and hoped one day to know the color of them. These thoughts were interrupted by Darcy's voice suddenly addressing her.

"I am not engaged to my cousin," he said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Her fingers halted on his forehead, and her hand fell back to her lap as she asked, "What did you say?"

Darcy opened his eyes and looked intently at Elizabeth, hoping to ascertain her feelings regarding his admission. He did not know what possessed him to make such a declaration at such a time, but he recognized there was no returning from it.

Sighing deeply, he declared more firmly, "I am not engaged to my cousin."

Elizabeth's eyes widened, and she started at his announcement. Darcy opened his mouth to continue, but was prevented by the approach of Bingley and Miss Bennet.

"Come, Darcy," Bingley said happily, unaware of the rising blush of the two people in front of him. "We promised my sister we would return for dinner, and she would be much put out if we broke our word."

Darcy nodded his head slightly, still distracted by his encounter with Elizabeth. Standing from his seat, he bowed respectively to the women.

"Miss Bennet," he said with his eyes turned toward Jane.

Turning more fully to Elizabeth, he said, "Miss Elizabeth, it was a pleasure to see you again."

With that the two gentlemen took their leave, and Jane watched curiously as Darcy climbed onto his horse. Looking toward her sister, she perceived the light blush on her cheeks.

"Whatever happened, Lizzy?" Jane asked curiously. "Are you unwell?"

Elizabeth shook her head, listening to the powerful steps of the horses retreating down the drive.

Smiling slightly, she declared, "I am well, Jane. I am well.