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Chapter 25: A Hopeful Season

Though his heart beat quickly with the possibility of news of Elizabeth, Darcy opened the letter with a steady hand. He was surprised to receive a letter from her father so soon after his own, for the man had professed being an inattentive and infrequent correspondent. Darcy smiled slightly as his eyes glanced over the lines in front of him:

December 16th

Mr. Darcy,

I hope that your business has progressed to your satisfaction and I pray most heartily that your groom and his family are well. While I accept your apology for being prevented from joining me at Longbourn, it is not necessary, for while chess is a necessary and worthy pastime, I would by no means have you abandon your estate for it.

Darcy laughed lightly at this, feeling the weight of the day lifting as he imagined Mr. Bennet's sardonic humor with every line. He smiled slightly, remembering Elizabeth's remarkable vivacity, which he had since determined came entirely from her father. Steadying his good humor, Darcy continued reading:

You must be surprised on receiving yet another letter from me, for I know I professed to be an infrequent correspondent. Yet I have found myself with an hour of leisure and thought I would take the opportunity to apprise you of Hertfordshire's news. Since I know you to be an intelligent man of the world, who undoubtedly would find little interest in idle gossip, I will share only the most stimulating events.

Your aunt had the goodness to consent to my cousin's choice of bride; Mr. Collins will marry Miss Charlotte Lucas in another month. I am certain you have no desire to hear details of their nuptial plans or Miss Lucas' attire for that event, and I have no desire to relate such frivolity. Instead I will only say that her family and friends look forward to the event with great anticipation, but I find that my Elizabeth seems to feel it most acutely.

Darcy started at this intelligence, his mind immediately reacting to the knowledge of the possibility that Elizabeth might be unhappy. He traced her name slowly with his thumb, as he had when reading Mr. Bennet's previous letter, and felt desperate to be near her as his eyes returned to the page:

I have noticed she has been much distracted these last weeks, and I believe she looks toward the loss of her friend to Hunsford with very little happiness.

"Could there not be another reason for her distraction?" Darcy asked hopefully, remembering how Elizabeth's eyes danced merrily as she spoke with him.

Darcy rubbed his chin against the back of his hand thoughtfully as he continued to read and his breath caught at Mr. Bennet's next declaration:

For this reason, I hope that her time in London after the holiday will distract her from her current melancholy.

Darcy stood from his seat, forcing it backward with the strength of his movement, as he reread the line. "She is to come to London," he breathed in disbelief.

Darcy moved his hands over his face in an attempt to calm his excited mind, and he took tentative steps away from his desk with the letter held lightly in his hand. He fell heavily into the leather chair before the fire and smiled slightly. Darcy returned his gaze to the parchment in the hopes that Mr. Bennet would reveal more of his daughter's plans, but found that the gentleman had continued on without further mention of Elizabeth's going to London:

It seems that you are not the only individual to leave Hertfordshire's company; Mr. King has left us as well. Unfortunately for Mr. Wickham, he has taken his niece with him to Liverpool, and it seems the young couple shall not be wed. Mr. Wickham has readily received the sympathy of those in Meryton who wish to give it, but otherwise seems quite unaffected by his loss of his betrothed, though I am certain he mourns the loss of her purse.

Lowering the letter to his knee, Darcy closed his eyes and breathed in relief. Playing idly with his signet ring, he reflected on Mr. King's actions. Having not received a response to his letter explaining his past dealings with Wickham, Darcy had feared Mr. King had dismissed its contents as Colonel Forster had so readily dismissed his concerns.

Closing his eyes and leaning his head back against the worn leather, Darcy thought, ‘At least the girl is safe.'

Feeling not entirely comforted by this news, for Wickham was still in Hertfordshire, and well-liked, Darcy shook his head. He could only hope that Wickham would expose himself in some way without harming another. Given Wickham's past debts, Darcy had no doubt his old friend had accumulated a sizeable amount of them in Meryton as well, and thought perhaps the merchants and innkeeper there would demand recompense.

‘Perhaps he will be discovered after all,' Darcy reflected.

Raising Mr. Bennet's letter once again, Darcy read the good wishes toward Georgiana and himself that followed the revelation of Mr. King's actions, and folded the letter carefully. Breathing deeply, he felt his anxiety over Wickham dissipate slightly, and he allowed himself to think happily on the knowledge that Elizabeth would be in London. Darcy smiled warmly as he imagined her blithe laughter echoing through the halls of his townhouse and her pleasing figure sitting at his table.

Shaking his head slightly, his mind asserted, ‘However do you plan to be in company with her when her relations live in Cheapside? You cannot imagine she will attend any parties while in Town!'

A small frown spread across Darcy's face as he thought on just how unlikely his meeting with Elizabeth by chance would be, and becoming frustrated, he rose from his seat and moved toward the window. Looking out over the lawn toward the pond, Darcy studied the frozen water and smiled. It had often been a place of entertainment for himself and Georgiana during her youth; sliding clumsily across its surface and laughing heartily at their unsteadiness. Darcy leaned casually against the window frame, his eyes straying over the stillness outside and reflecting on just how welcome Elizabeth's lively company would be on such a day.

‘You are still resolved to propose then?' his mind asked.

Nodding his head firmly, Darcy realized he was fully prepared to offer himself and everything he possessed to Elizabeth, regardless of any objections. Unable to restrain the hopeful excitement that bubbled within him, the serious young master of Pemberley smiled broadly and resolved to find some way to meet with Elizabeth in London. Moving swiftly from the room, and silently thanking Mr. Bennet for the knowledge of Elizabeth's journey, Darcy sought out his valet so that he might prepare for his journey.

Elizabeth moved her fingers along the smooth surface of the candle she held, feeling the slight warmth emanating from its small flame. Jane stood beside her, quietly singing the hymn, but often pausing to silence Lydia's heedless chatter. Elizabeth smiled at the scene, reflecting that never had a Christmas service passed without Lydia interrupting her elder sister's reverence and serenity. Shaking her head slightly, Elizabeth listened as the final peals of music rumbled through the church before hearing the curate's clear voice ringing through the comfortable space of Longbourn Church. He wished them all a blessed Christmas day, and with a serious glance toward Lydia, dismissed the congregation and moved toward the entrance.

Elizabeth smiled, hearing several young children charging heedlessly down the aisle, free from their mothers' restraint, and eager to escape out of doors. Feeling Jane press her arm lightly, Elizabeth secured her gloves and linked her arm with her elder sister's. The two walked slowly through the groups of parishioners, bidding their neighbors a good morning and warm wishes for the season, before stepping into the morning sunlight. Just as the icy air blew against them, they heard Charlotte happily greeting them.

"I hope you are both well," she said kindly as she leaned forward to embrace her friends.

Elizabeth professed that they were both well and declared, "I hope you had a very fine trip. Was Rosings Park everything our cousin said it would be?"

Though Elizabeth had accepted Charlotte's choice of husband, she could not dismiss the ridiculousness of the man and his conversation. Elizabeth bit her lip fretfully, feeling certain that Lady Catherine's benevolence was not as extensive as Mr. Collins claimed, and that Charlotte would be forced to suffer the woman's ill temper.

Noticing her friend's concerned countenance, Charlotte said lightly, "Indeed it was; it is a very fine estate."

"And how did you find Lady Catherine?" Elizabeth continued tentatively, arching her brow in wonder.

Charlotte blushed slightly, remembering her first interview with the imposing woman following her arrival at Hunsford, but answered, "She is perhaps not all I had expected, but I found her very welcoming. She is stylish and well-informed, though perhaps not as generous in her opinions as your cousin would have us believe."

"Ah yes, I have heard Mr. Collins admit that some of her ladyship's opinions are very fixed," Elizabeth said merrily. "Papa mentioned something about her being very opposed to plane trees, though I do not know how one disapproves of them."

Charlotte and Jane laughed lightly at this, and Jane asked gently, "How do you find Hunsford?"

Elizabeth frowned slightly at this reminder of her friend's impending departure from Hertfordshire. She would miss her acutely, having been in her company since their youths, and finding in Charlotte a trusted companion. Fighting the sudden sadness she felt well within her, Elizabeth smiled tightly and awaited Charlotte's response.

"I believe it will be a very comfortable house," Charlotte said easily, as the three resumed their progress down the church path toward Longbourn. "I shall have all I need, and though I will be loath to part from you both, I cannot deny the excitement I feel over managing my own home."

Elizabeth silently reflected that such comforts were not what she wished in her own marriage, and felt that they made poor substitutes for true feeling. As Charlotte continued to describe Hunsford's rooms and Lady Catherine's suggestions for their renovation, Elizabeth imagined Mr. Darcy's tall frame moving toward her and inviting her to walk with him before securing her arm on his own and lightly caressing her hand. Closing her eyes against the image, Elizabeth trembled slightly.

Immediately perceiving her sister's discomfiture, Jane studied her sister closely and asked, "Lizzy, are you chilled? Perhaps we should move a touch more quickly toward Longbourn."

Elizabeth blushed slightly, feeling their eyes upon her, almost catching her in her distraction. Feeling herself suddenly exhausted, she agreed, as Charlotte expressed a need to rejoin her family.

"I will wish you both a merry Christmas then," Charlotte said as she embraced them again.

Eyeing her good friends suspiciously and noting their uncharacteristic pallor, Charlotte continued quietly, "I suppose you have received no news from the Netherfield party."

Jane sighed slightly and declared, "We have not, but Miss Bingley did say once that she was a dreadful correspondent. Perhaps she has merely forgotten to answer my letters."

"I am certain that is what it is," Charlotte said comfortingly as she clasped Jane's hand tightly.

Turning toward Elizabeth, she saw her turn her face thoughtfully toward the sky, her eyes glistening in the sun. Noticing the sadness in them, Charlotte determined that Elizabeth had formed a serious attachment to Mr. Darcy, and feeling herself responsible, Charlotte moved toward her.

"I am very sorry, Elizabeth," Charlotte said quietly, reaching for Elizabeth's hands and squeezing them lightly. "I truly believed he felt something for you."

"And I believe he still does," Jane added. "He undoubtedly had some matter to attend to."

Elizabeth turned her face toward her friend and sister and declared softly, "Neither of you could have known this would be the outcome. You have nothing to be sorry for; I will recover."

Returning the pressure of Charlotte's hands, Elizabeth slowly removed her own from their grasp and added, "I was happy to have known him. I told you, Jane, when we were at Netherfield, that I would be honored to merely call him my friend. Do you recall?"

"I do," Jane whispered lightly as she watched Elizabeth carefully, and remembered with perfect clarity each detail of her stay under Mr. Bingley's roof.

Nodding absently, and wishing to spare herself from the pain of discussing her disappointment further, Elizabeth wished Charlotte a fine holiday and said, "I am very happy for you, my dear friend."

Charlotte smiled slightly and declared, "You must come visit me in the spring; both of you must."

Jane and Elizabeth quickly agreed to such a plan, and bidding their friend a good morning, moved on toward Longbourn.

Noting Jane's silence and hoping to lighten their unhappiness, for she felt they could not be melancholy on such a day, Elizabeth said merrily, "I shall be very happy to make Lady Catherine's acquaintance; we have heard so much of her."

"She must be a very fine lady," Jane declared distractedly, her mind still recalling Mr. Bingley's bright eyes and jovial smile.

"Oh yes; I imagine she is very stylish and well-informed," Elizabeth added. "What do you think she will make of me when we are introduced?"

Jane paused in her step and asked, "Whatever do you mean, Lizzy?"

Moving on surely, for Elizabeth heard the cold gravel crunch beneath her step as they reached the drive, she said, "She must have been terribly put out by my refusal of her offer."

Pausing and laughing lightly, Elizabeth exclaimed, "Truly, I cannot imagine why she agreed to have me in the first place! Mr. Collins must have been very kind in his descriptions of me. I imagine she is a very singular woman."

Jane smiled gently and declared, "I have told you many times; you do not acknowledge how worthy you are."

Elizabeth shrugged lightly, and hearing the rest of her family following closely behind, she continued on, stating, "And you do not realize how deserving you are."

Reaching for Jane's hand, Elizabeth clasped it tightly, and smiling mischievously, began to skip in the direction of the house, pulling Jane with her. Jane laughed in surprise and heard their mother's unhappy exclamations ring out behind them, breaking the peaceful morning's silence.

"Lizzy, Jane, stop that at once!" Mrs. Bennet cried unhappily, clutching her husband's arm for support as she watched her daughters dancing merrily on Longbourn's lawn. "Mr. Bennet, say something! Look what Lizzy has gotten up to now!"

Mr. Bennet smiled slightly as he watched his eldest daughters laughing happily, their customary spirits revealing themselves after weeks of hiding. Shaking his head in wonder, he turned toward his youngest daughters who walked sedately behind him in the hope of impressing him with their newfound restraint.

His brow rising in wonder at the sight of Lydia and Catherine so calm, Mr. Bennet smiled dryly and declared, "You had best join them."

The effect of his approval was immediate as Lydia and Catherine grinned broadly and ran happily toward their sisters. Mr. Bennet heard his wife inhale sharply at his declaration, and looking toward Mary, he noticed she smiled slightly at her sisters' childishness.

"Mr. Bennet, would you have our neighbors think our daughters heathens?" Mrs. Bennet exclaimed, wringing her hands nervously as she watched her daughters. "And on Christmas no less!"

Studying his daughters for a moment and committing to memory this happy time, he answered, "As it is Christmas, I believe our neighbors will forgive us for creating a spectacle."

Nodding toward Mrs. Bennet, and unwinding her arm from his own, he declared, "I have a great desire for my breakfast, my dear. I trust Hill has created a feast for us."

With that, he strode toward the entrance, smiling in satisfaction as he listened to the fits of laughter that rang out across his property.

Glancing once more toward Elizabeth and Jane, he thought, ‘At least they can enjoy themselves today.'

Moving inside the warmth of his home, he prayed that the Gardiners' arrival would erase the rest of their apparent sadness.

Darcy smiled softly as he watched Georgiana's fingers glide across the keys of the fine pianoforte, and listened to the festive chords fill the music room. He studied her intently, reflecting on how much he had missed her presence, and how changed she was since their previous Christmas together. Her once light smile, which Darcy determined she had inherited from their father, was gone and replaced with a look of restraint and worry. His chest tightened as he realized he had not heard her laughter since his arrival two days ago. Frowning slightly, he could not help but recall Wickham's easy smile, and the image of him standing near Georgiana at Ramsgate. Closing his dark eyes, he prayed that no other would fall victim to Wickham's schemes or be harmed by his unguarded behavior.

‘Especially Elizabeth,' he added silently, his mind flashing angrily to the vision of Elizabeth's pale countenance and terrified eyes after her encounter with Wickham.

With such an unhappy image seared into his memory, Darcy wished desperately to see Elizabeth and ascertain if she were truly well. He sighed lightly, feeling that the days until her arrival in London would surely be the longest of his life.

‘And how will you act when she does arrive?' his mind reasoned. ‘You may have wounded her far more than Wickham's carelessness.'

Pressing his hand lightly to his forehead, Darcy admitted the truth in this idea. Since learning of Bingley's failure to extend his apologies toward Mr. Bennet, Darcy feared Elizabeth would believe herself abandoned by him, or at least take his departure as an end to their friendship. Shaking his head lightly, Darcy resolved to call at the earliest opportunity the following day at Grosvenor and attempt once again to meet with Bingley. Upon arriving in London, Darcy immediately sought out his friend, only to be informed he was engaged with his sisters and Mr. Hurst, and had left for the evening. Not wishing to leave Georgiana, or having the unhappy business of confronting Bingley for his blunder on Christmas, Darcy resolved to wait and enjoy the day at home.

"Should I stop playing, Fitzwilliam?" Georgiana asked quietly from her place at the instrument.

Interrupted from his unhappy thoughts, and opening his eyes quickly, Darcy looked toward his sister and saw she watched him worriedly.

Standing from her seat and moving to her brother's side, Georgiana added, "Perhaps you should retire; you seem quite tired. Truly, I will not be upset if you do."

Smiling slightly, and pressing her hand, Darcy declared, "No, no; I am quite well. I would not leave your company for a kingdom."

Georgiana blushed prettily at this, and taking the seat at her brother's side, studied him intently. Though she was just fifteen, her posture and countenance were stylish and pleasing, and her manners above reproach. Despite her young age, she maintained a remarkable sedateness and maturity, undoubtedly the products of her near-elopement and disappointment. Her brow furrowed slightly as she noticed the dark circles under her brother's eyes, and that his handsome face seemed drawn.

"Has something gone amiss?" she asked, pressing his hand unconsciously in fear. "I thought you said you were quite finished with the business of the fire."

Darcy smiled slightly at her observation and explained, "It has been; the stable has been rebuilt just as it was. I would not have changed our father's design for anything."

Unsatisfied with this answer, Georgiana pressed on and said seriously, "Then you are still feeling the effects of your loss."

Darcy turned sharply toward her, his eyes widening in wonder as he thought, ‘She cannot possibly mean Elizabeth. She knows nothing about her beyond what I said in my letters.'

Taking his silence as acquiescence, Georgiana added softly, "I am so very sorry Dryden is no longer with you."

Darcy bit back his laughter over his own foolishness, and feeling saved by her inquiry, he said, "I am as well; he was a fine horse."

Georgiana nodded her head sadly, remembering the day her brother had received him. Darcy watched his sister for a moment before lifting her chin gently so that she would meet his eyes.

"We are being far too unhappy," he said as he stood from his seat. "I believe Mrs. Ward has seen to a fine dinner for us, and we should enjoy ourselves."

Holding his hand out, he added, "I am quite well, my dear, and only desire your presence. I want to hear all about your studies."

Georgiana took her brother's proffered hand, and smiling slightly, followed him toward the dining room. She watched his profile as he walked beside her, and she reflected that the hardness that had filled his eyes since the previous summer had vanished completely, only to be replaced by a pleasant and hopeful glow. Taking in his tall frame, she noted that the even the rigidity he had adopted after their father's death had softened. Indeed, his entire person seemed transformed for the better.

Eyeing him speculatively, she asked, "What happened in Hertfordshire, Fitzwilliam?"

Darcy started at this inquiry, and looking toward his sister in alarm, nearly tripped on the fine woven rug in the hall. Willing his voice steady, and hoping his blush was not evident, he said, "Nothing untoward; I spent much of my time aiding Bingley in the managing of his new property."

Unhappily for Darcy, this did not abate Georgiana's curiosity and she pressed on, declaring, "But in your letters you said you were able to make several acquaintances there, so you cannot have spent all of your time locked in Mr. Bingley's study."

Sighing in resignation, Darcy looked toward his sister and confessed, "You are correct, my dear; I did meet several people of the neighborhood."

Noting her brother's heightened color, and reflecting that she had rarely seen her brother agitated, Georgiana said lightly, "I hope you enjoyed your time with them."

Darcy smiled, his mind filled with Elizabeth's sincere smile and laughter, and admitted, "I did indeed."

Georgiana smiled brightly at this, and linking her arm through her brother's, followed him into the dining room, where they found the carved mahogany table adorned with candles and holly and covered with a variety of meats, greens, and spiced cakes. After seeing Georgiana to her seat, Darcy moved toward his own chair beside her. Glancing down the length of the table, and taking in the empty chairs, Darcy felt content, regardless of their simple holiday. Placing his hand on the chair to his right, he prayed that the following year would find Elizabeth there

Chapter 26: Meetings

Posted on 2008-09-26

Jane walked slowly behind Elizabeth, smiling softly as she watched her sister turn her face to the sky. They had walked out following luncheon in an effort the make the hour of their aunt and uncle's arrival come more swiftly. Their mother had disagreed with their plan heartily, exclaiming that they would both catch colds.

"You will end up with a red nose, and then where will you be?" she had cried unhappily as she bustled about them while Hill helped them into their heavy coats.

Elizabeth would not be swayed, and after kissing her mother lightly on the cheek, professed that they would not stray far from the house, so they might return quickly should they become chilled. Sighing in resignation, their mother had bid them farewell before accompanying Hill to the kitchen to see to the evening's meal. Elizabeth laughed lightly at the memory of her mother's exclamations, and started when she felt a wet weight land lightly on her eyelashes.

"It is the first snow, Jane!" she cried excitedly, her eyes dancing merrily and her complexion rosy with the brisk air. "I had despaired we would not have the opportunity to witness it before our aunt and uncle arrived."

Elizabeth's outstretched hands caught several of the soft flakes that floated down, and she sighed happily, feeling their cold wetness against her fingertips and cheeks. Smiling broadly, Elizabeth raised her arms as if to welcome the clouds that loomed above her.

Glancing about her, and noticing that the thick flakes melted almost immediately on hitting the ground, Jane asserted, "I do not know that you can call it the first snow, Lizzy. It is not yet cold enough."

Her face still raised to the sky, Elizabeth waved her hand dismissively and declared, "But it will be soon. Can you not feel it?"

Shaking her head slightly, and knowing Elizabeth's predictions to often be correct, Jane said, "Mama will not be pleased; she will fret terribly over our aunt and uncle if they do not arrive soon."

"She will believe they were lost in snow, however little there may be," Elizabeth answered lightly.

Jane laughed reluctantly before quelling her humor and quietly admonishing Elizabeth. Linking her arm through Elizabeth's, and welcoming the warmth, Jane said sadly, "I must admit I am quite happy that our aunt and uncle will join us. I believe it will distract our mother from her disappointment."

Recognizing the despondency in Jane's voice, Elizabeth declared, "I am heartily sorry she continues to remind you each day of Mr. Bingley's absence."

"She does not mean to, Lizzy," Jane reasoned softly.

Sighing in annoyance, Elizabeth asserted, "She never means to offend, but I do wish she was more conscious about when she does."

Pressing Jane's arm in empathy, Elizabeth added, "I am very happy we will be returning to London with them. I welcome the diversion it will provide."

"As do I," Jane said, her smile returning.

As the sisters rounded the path, their attention was arrested by the sound of a carriage moving smoothly up the drive. Elizabeth listened as the gravel crunched beneath the heavy weight of its wheels, and the driver called the horses to a halt.

Smiling merrily, Elizabeth asked, "Is it they?"

Nodding, Jane exclaimed cheerfully, "It is indeed!"

Securing Elizabeth's arm more tightly against her, Jane quickly led them toward the carriage as its door opened to reveal the jovial face of Mr. Edward Gardiner. Noticing his favorite nieces moving toward his conveyance, he smiled broadly and greeted them happily. Jumping down onto the drive and removing his hat, he turned to assist his wife in her descent from the carriage. Mrs. Gardiner stepped gracefully down, and smiling when her nieces arrived in front of her, she embraced them happily.

"Jane, Lizzy," she said. "We are so very happy to see you!"

Smiling, Jane declared, "As are we. I hope you had a pleasant trip."

Moving toward each of his nieces, and kissing their cheeks lightly, Mr. Gardiner answered, "We did; we were quite happy that the snow held off for us."

Feeling a few flakes fall onto his exposed forehead, he added, "Though it seems we arrived just in time."

"Come inside," Elizabeth said, smiling happily. "Our mother and father will be delighted you are here. Mama has been preparing for you all afternoon; we are to have quite a feast!"

Mrs. Gardiner took Elizabeth's arm as Mr. Gardiner and Jane moved inside. Looking toward her favorite niece, she watched Elizabeth's eyes dance merrily as they entered the hall.

"I expect you have much to apprise me of," Mrs. Gardiner said after she thanked Sarah for taking her coat and bonnet. "You must tell me all about this young man at Netherfield; your mother's last letter regarding him was not at all complimentary."

Biting her lip fretfully, Elizabeth declared, "There is much to tell."

Before she could continue, Mrs. Bennet moved quickly into the room, greeting her brother and his wife happily, and waving her handkerchief with her frantic joy.

"I had just now said to Lydia that I hoped you would come soon!" she exclaimed. "It is snowing, and quite dangerous to travel!"

Laughing lightly, Elizabeth said in an effort to comfort her mother, "It is hardly a storm, Mama; it is snowing only slightly. My aunt and uncle were quite safe."

Waving her hand, Mrs. Bennet quickly answered, "One cannot be too careful."

Hearing the commotion in the hallway, Mr. Bennet opened his library door and was pleasantly surprised to discover his brother-in-law and wife surrounded by his family. Moving out into the hall, Mr. Bennet greeted them warmly and invited them into the drawing room. Once her guests were seated, Mrs. Bennet quickly saw that tea was brought. Sarah entered with a large tray of refreshments, and curtseying lightly, left the room to return to the kitchen.

Holding the warm cup of tea between her chilled hands, Mrs. Gardiner said, "I hope you are all well."

"Have you brought us presents?" Lydia asked abruptly, her eyes dancing excitedly with the promise of a new bonnet or lace from London's shops.

"We have indeed, my dear," Mr. Gardiner said good-naturedly.

Looking toward her sister pointedly, Jane declared, "Perhaps that can wait until after supper, Lydia. Allow our aunt and uncle a moment to recover from their journey."

Pursing her lips unhappily, Lydia moved toward the table across the room, and taking up an old bonnet, continued to pull at its ribbons so that she might replace them. Shaking her head, Elizabeth reflected that her young sister was still far too impulsive for her liking, but quickly dismissed these unhappy thoughts, and returned her attention to her aunt and uncle. Though she wished to ask after her young cousins, she was prevented by her mother's unhappy declaration.

"Oh, we have suffered a grave disappointment," Mrs. Bennet cried unhappily, pressing her hand to her chest. "My nerves are so delicate, it is a wonder I have survived it."

Frowning in worry, Mr. Gardiner asked, "Of what do you speak, sister?"

Groaning in frustration, Elizabeth was not surprised when her mother quickly began a detailed account of Mr. Bingley's time in Hertfordshire. Elizabeth reached toward Jane, and taking her hand, clasped it tightly in the hope of giving her comfort. She had no doubt her sister blushed furiously, and she wished desperately to halt her mother's exclamations. Sighing in resignation, she started when her mother began to abuse Mr. Darcy.

"And you must be certain that Mr. Darcy had a hand in Mr. Bingley's leaving," Mrs. Bennet continued.

"Why ever do you believe that?" Mrs. Gardiner asked quietly, her eyes turning in concern toward Jane.

"Had you met him, Madeleine, you would surely agree that he is the most proud man and wholly undeserving of Mr. Bingley's trust!" Mrs. Bennet cried, falling heavily back into her seat. "His departure from the country was so sudden, and I have no doubt he encouraged Mr. Bingley to follow him."

Mrs. Gardiner frowned slightly at this intelligence, and looking toward Elizabeth and perceiving how her complexion had paled, wondered at the cause. She studied her niece carefully, but was interrupted by her brother-in-law addressing the company.

"Indeed Mr. Darcy did depart abruptly," Mr. Bennet admitted quietly. "But it was quite necessary."

Mrs. Bennet looked toward her husband in confusion, her brow rising in wonder as she asked, "Whatever are you talking of, Mr. Bennet?"

"Mr. Darcy had business at his estate which he urgently needed to attend to," he answered calmly, turning his gaze on Elizabeth and noting how she turned toward him in wonder.

Mrs. Bennet paled for a moment before declaring, "You could not know such a thing, Mr. Bennet. You are being too kind to the man, and I believe he does not deserve your defending him."

"Believe me, I am in earnest, my dear," Mr. Bennet said, his eyes still intently studying Elizabeth. "There was a fire at his estate."

Elizabeth inhaled sharply, unconsciously holding Jane's hand more firmly and asking worriedly, "A fire at Pemberley?"

Noticing the fear in his daughter's eyes, Mr. Bennet immediately recognized that Elizabeth's unhappiness the past weeks had not been due to her friend's engagement, but entirely the result of Mr. Darcy's absence.

Wishing to ease her fear and admonishing himself for not recognizing the depth of Elizabeth's feelings earlier, Mr. Bennet quickly confessed, "I had a letter from him. He is quite well, but he found he was needed at his estate to deal with the disaster."

Elizabeth breathed deeply, relieved that he was unharmed as Mrs. Gardiner quickly inquired after the damage done to the estate.

"I believe only the stables were affected," Mr. Bennet said evenly. "But from what I understand, the damage was most severe."

Mrs. Gardiner sighed slightly and declared, "Though that is unfortunate, at least the main house was unaffected. It is quite a sight to behold."

Elizabeth turned in surprise toward her aunt, and asked, "You know of it?"

Smiling slightly, Mrs. Gardiner professed, "I do indeed, Lizzy. Pemberley is but five miles from where I spent all of my youth."

Resolving to press her aunt later for a description of the place, Elizabeth fell silent and listened as her mother declared quietly, "I am happy to hear he is well then, however disagreeable he may be."

"I hope you will acquit him of taking Mr. Bingley away then," Mr. Bennet said dryly, smiling slightly at his wife's stricken expression.

Nodding distractedly, Mrs. Bennet twisted her handkerchief in agitation as she cried, "Then why has Mr. Bingley gone away?"

Sighing in annoyance, Mr. Bennet asserted, "That we cannot know, madam, but I will thank you to refrain from mentioning it again this evening."

Standing from his seat, he added, "I would like to have a peaceful dinner, and happily, I believe we may remove to the dining room."

As he led Mr. Gardiner toward the door with a smile, Mr. Bennet glanced back at Elizabeth, only to see her with her face turned thoughtfully toward the fire, her mouth set in an uncertain line.

‘I should have explained his departure to her sooner,' he thought unhappily. ‘She must truly care for him.'

Though the thought of losing Elizabeth gave him great pain, Mr. Bennet smiled slightly and prayed silently that Mr. Darcy had taken note of his mention of Elizabeth's journey to London in his last letter. Feeling certain that Mr. Darcy would spend at least part of the winter in Town, Mr. Bennet hoped that the young man would meet, at least by chance, with Elizabeth, for he believed such a meeting would lift Elizabeth's spirits. Now recognizing her feelings for what they were, Mr. Bennet resolved that it would not only restore her spirits, but perhaps secure her a happy future as well. Smiling sadly as he watched Elizabeth speak quietly with Jane, Mr. Bennet reflected that Mr. Darcy's behavior bespoke a gentleman worthy of his daughter. Returning his attention to his brother-in-law, Mr. Bennet followed him into the hallway.

Miss Bingley sat unhappily at her seat at the window, gazing down into the bustling street below and studying the people moving quickly toward their homes before night fell. For weeks she had awaited Mr. Darcy's arrival in London, only to miss his calling on them. She had cancelled all her appointments, and waited impatiently for his return, feeling certain that he would call again. Two days had passed, and they had yet to receive word from him. Sighing dramatically, she looked toward her brother, who sat quietly in his chair near the fire. He gazed pensively into the flames, a grim frown on his once jovial countenance. Shaking her head in annoyance, she admitted that his melancholy over the loss of Miss Jane Bennet had been far greater than she had anticipated.

‘All the more reason to speak with Mr. Darcy directly,' she thought as she returned her gaze out of doors. ‘He must help me assure Charles that our leaving Hertfordshire was the right course.'

Just as she worked to create a plan so that she might speak with him before her brother had the opportunity, the bell rang, and she heard a footman move steadily into the entrance hall. Standing from her seat, she smoothed the creases from her dress, and with a final glance at her brother, moved swiftly out of the room. She walked briskly, the small heels of her slippers clicking frantically against the marble floor. Stopping abruptly before the entrance, she pinched her cheeks to heighten her color and smiled broadly when she saw Mr. Darcy enter.

"Mr. Darcy!" she exclaimed happily. "I had no idea you were in London!"

Darcy glanced up briefly before thanking the footman who relieved him of his heavy greatcoat, gloves, and hat. Laying his cane aside, Darcy turned fully toward Miss Bingley and declared flatly, "I sent a note on my arrival, and I assume your staff told you of my visit on Saturday evening."

Miss Bingley flushed slightly, and recovering herself, said happily, "Of course; why, it must have slipped from my mind. We have been so merry these past few days, I have had hardly a moment to myself."

Noticing his friend was not there to greet him cheerfully as was his custom, Darcy determined that Bingley was not making himself ‘merry.' Gazing back at Miss Bingley, Darcy could barely contain his annoyance with her interference.

His jaw set unhappily, and forcing himself to breathe deeply in order to quell his anger, Darcy thought, ‘Calm yourself, man. You have only your suspicion, and will not know the whole of the event until you speak with Bingley.'

Smiling tightly, Darcy said politely, "I hope you had a pleasant holiday then."

Miss Bingley smiled at this apparent evidence of his care, and sauntering toward him, declared, "I did indeed; but you must tell me about your own holiday."

Darcy quieted a groan that threatened to escape him as Miss Bingley linked her arm through his, continuing, "Surely you enjoyed the company of your aunt and uncle, for I am certain they hosted a party."

"They did, indeed," Darcy answered quietly. "But Georgiana and I elected to remain at home on Christmas. We rarely attend Lord and Lady Matlock's parties, for we prefer a quiet holiday."

Miss Bingley pursed her lips unhappily at this intelligence, feeling that when she was mistress of Pemberley, she would surely encourage her husband to attend, for to be in the company of Lord and Lady Matlock was something indeed. Recovering from her surprise, she smiled brightly.

"How very charming!" she said happily. "I agree that a quiet evening in one's home is preferred to an evening out."

Darcy shook his head slightly, and smiling wryly, declared, "Then you did not enjoy your evening at Mrs. Markby's on Saturday?"

Miss Bingley paused in her step and asked, "Mrs. Markby's?"

"Indeed," Darcy answered, his handsome countenance lightened by his good humor. "I was informed by your footman that you were there when I came to call on you all."

Blushing noticeably, Miss Bingley answered quietly, "Ah yes; it was a lovely party, but I would much have preferred to remain at home."

Darcy chose to be silent, and continued to follow her toward the drawing room. On reaching it, he immediately perceived Bingley's slumped form in the chair near the hearth. His friend only raised his eyes to them when Miss Bingley lightly cleared her throat.

"Charles, Mr. Darcy has come," she said happily, silently willing her brother to abandon his brooding and assume his cheerful manner again. "Are we not very lucky? We were just saying how desperately we have missed his company."

Bingley stood from his seat slowly, and crossing the room without his usual boundless energy, clasped Darcy's hand firmly.

"I hope you are well, Bingley," Darcy declared as he eyed his friend's pale complexion and serious expression.

"I am," Bingley answered, allowing himself to smile slightly. "I am happy to see you, Darcy. Will you not come sit with us?"

Miss Bingley echoed her brother's entreaty, and quickly called for tea, but was surprised when Darcy declined.

"If you will indulge me," Darcy began. "I have a matter of business to discuss with you."

Turning his eyes toward Miss Bingley, and noticing her annoyance, he added, "Then I would be delighted to visit with you all."

The effect was immediate as Miss Bingley smiled broadly and resumed her seat near her sister. Bingley acquiesced to Darcy's request, and moving toward the hallway, led him toward Mr. Hurst's study. Entering the room, Darcy noticed it had little evidence that serious business had ever been completed in it, and given Mr. Hurst's penchant for fine wine and hunting, Darcy was unsurprised. Bingley sank heavily into one of the chairs by the fire, and was surprised when Darcy did not take the one beside him, but began pacing furiously.

"Has something happened, Darcy?" Bingley asked worriedly, his light eyes wide with wonder. "You look very agitated; shall I ring for brandy?"

Turning his serious gaze toward his friend, Darcy said, "No, Bingley, for what we have to discuss is far too important."

Darcy passed his hands over his face in an attempt to calm his racing mind, and moving toward the vacant seat by his friend, sat before him.

Uncertain how to begin, Darcy asked quietly, "Why ever are you in London?"

Bingley's brow furrowed slightly in confusion, and laughing ruefully, he answered, "I do not believe Caroline would forgive me if we did not spend the winter in Town."

His eyes flashing in annoyance at this reminder of Bingley's sister's hold on him, he declared, "But I thought you planned to remain in Hertfordshire for another two weeks. In fact, I believed you would even remain there for the whole of the winter if all went as you wanted."

Bingley frowned at this, and settling back into his seat, answered sadly, "Circumstances changed, my friend, and I found I had to leave."

Fearing Miss Bennet had refused Bingley's hand, Darcy asked carefully, "Did something untoward occur between yourself and Miss Bennet?"

Bingley's eyes flew to Darcy's face in surprise, for he had not heard the name of his beloved spoken by anyone in weeks. His brow knitting unhappily, Bingley merely nodded. Darcy inhaled sharply at this, and immediately felt an ache of pity for his friend.

"I am very sorry, Bingley," Darcy said quietly. "I thought she would have accepted you happily."

Standing quickly from his seat, Bingley moved toward the window and looked out on the darkening street. Sighing heavily, he said, "I believe that is what Caroline feared."

Darcy's brow furrowed in confusion as Bingley continued, "Miss Bennet would have accepted me happily, but perhaps not for herself."

"Whatever are you talking of?" Darcy asked, standing from his seat and striding toward his friend.

Bingley's voice caught slightly as he answered, "It is no secret that Mrs. Bennet sought an advantageous marriage for her daughter."

Darcy nodded slightly, acknowledging the truth in this declaration, but remained silent as Bingley pushed himself away from the window in frustration and walked back to the hearth.

Leaning against the mantle, he added bitterly, "I would not have Miss Bennet accept me because she was instructed to do so. It would be far too painful."

Coloring in frustration, Darcy followed his friend and asked hotly, "Am I to understand you did not propose to her?"

Bingley nodded sadly as Darcy continued, "Did you not think Miss Bennet's pleasant reception of you enough evidence of her regard? Or her preference for your company above all others?"

Bingley looked speculatively toward his friend as Darcy's eyes widened in surprise with the sudden realization that it was entirely upon Miss Bingley's suggestion that Bingley left Hertfordshire. His jaw setting angrily, Darcy rubbed his chin against the back of his hand in frustration.

Breathing deeply to calm his annoyance, Darcy said evenly, "I, unlike your sister, believe Miss Bennet would have accepted you without regard to anyone else's feelings."

Bingley's eyes widened in surprise, and paling slightly, he asked, "You believe her regard for me genuine?"

"I would not have encouraged you if I did not," Darcy declared quietly.

Bingley let out a groan of frustration and sunk heavily into his chair as he said, "Caroline and Louisa assured me they saw no evidence of a tender regard."

"Perhaps they did not," Darcy answered evenly, not wishing to yet reveal his suspicions to Bingley. "Or perhaps Miss Bennet does not reveal herself so easily as other young women."

Bingley watched his friend carefully, his mind replaying his moments in Jane's company with perfect clarity, and covering his mouth with a shaky hand, he recognized the possibility that he had wounded her terribly with his hasty departure.

Bingley laid his head in his hands and asked, "What have I done, Darcy?"

Resuming his seat across from his friend, Darcy answered kindly, "Nothing that cannot be rectified, I am sure. Miss Bennet strikes me as a forgiving soul."

Watching his friend shake his head sadly, and his own mind turning back to Mr. Bennet's apparent ignorance of the reason for his departure from Hertfordshire, Darcy asked, "Did you leave Hertfordshire soon after the ball?"

"The afternoon after you left us," Bingley said distractedly.

His suspicions confirmed, Darcy nodded slightly and declared, "You did not take your leave of the Bennets then."

Realizing his friend wished to know the fate of his message for Mr. Bennet, Bingley said, "I did not, but I sent a note extending both your own and my regrets for having to leave their company."

"And you told Mr. Bennet of my reason for leaving the country?" Darcy asked quietly, already knowing the response.

"I did," Bingley assured him. "My most sincere apologies for not doing so in person, but I simply could not bring myself to visit Longbourn. I found as the time grew near, I could not face her knowing that she could not return my affection. "

Admonishing himself for his stupidity, Bingley added quietly, "But apparently I may have been very wrong in that regard."

Darcy shook his head in disbelief, his annoyance toward his friend's utter inability to determine his own course without regard to his sister's opinion growing. Pressing his hand to his forehead impatiently, Darcy declared evenly, "Unfortunately, Mr. Bennet received no such letter, Bingley."

Looking toward Darcy in confusion, Bingley asked, "Whatever do you mean?"

"I had a letter from him when I was Pemberley, and he was entirely ignorant of the fire," Darcy said flatly. "How can you account for that?"

His brow furrowing, Bingley declared in wonder, "I remember everything I wrote; I am certain I explained the reasons for your leaving."

Rubbing his neck, and feeling the muscles there strain with his unease, he explained, "I have no doubt you did, but I do not believe he ever received your letter."

Shaking his head, Bingley said, "That cannot be; I asked Caroline to see that Fossett delivered it to Longbourn immediately."

Cursing quietly, Darcy rose from his seat, and crossing his arms, stood before the fire to watch its flames. His dark eyes flashed angrily, recognizing that his belief that Miss Bingley had interfered had been well-founded. His anger slowly dissipated only to be replaced by sadness as he thought on his friend's good nature being so abused.

"As I said, I do not believe Mr. Bennet ever received it," he explained quietly, swallowing painfully at the memory of Mr. Bennet's relating Elizabeth's sadness these last weeks.

Bingley remained puzzled for a moment before turning his eyes swiftly to Darcy in realization. Standing from his seat, and moving to Darcy's side, Bingley looked seriously at his friend.

"Are you suggesting that Caroline ignored my request?" Bingley said evenly.

Turning fully toward Bingley, and taking in his rigid posture, Darcy recognized Bingley was warring between his belief in Darcy and his brotherly devotion to Miss Bingley. Sighing heavily, for he could think of no polite way to respond, Darcy answered simply, "I am."

Bingley's brow knitted unhappily, and his mouth opened wordlessly before he realized he could not think how to defend his sister. Having no explanation other than Darcy's for Mr. Bennet's ignorance, Bingley's eyes softened and his shoulders fell noticeably.

"If it is true, I am heartily sorry for it, Darcy," he said sincerely.

Feeling he valued Bingley's friendship too much, and realizing he could not hold his friend entirely accountable for the unfortunate occurrence, Darcy placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

"You could not have known," he declared quietly. "Your trust in your sister does you credit."

Bingley looked disbelievingly at Darcy and asked, "What of my foolishness then? Has it not had some horrible consequences?"

Darcy smiled slightly, and echoing his earlier assertion, said, "Nothing that cannot be rectified."

Professing a desire to rejoin Georgiana, and feeling himself entirely incapable of spending a moment in Miss Bingley's company, Darcy asked that his friend escort him out. When the young men found themselves in the front hall, and Darcy had fully prepared himself for the biting cold outside, Bingley raised a hand in apology to his friend.

"I am heartily sorry, Darcy," he said quietly, blushing with his shame and the worry that he had irrevocably lost his friend's trust.

Studying his friend silently, Darcy clasped his hand tightly and declared, "I accept your apology, but I would have you do something for me."

Bingley nodded vehemently and asserted, "I will do anything you like."

"In the future, act as your own master," Darcy said evenly.

Bingley recognized this as the only reproach he had ever received from Darcy, and realizing the truth in it, wholly agreed with him.

Looking pointedly toward the drawing room, Darcy declared seriously, "Perhaps you can begin tonight."

With that, Darcy bowed his farewell and disappeared into the darkness outside. Bingley watched as his friend instructed his driver before raising himself into his fine carriage. As Bingley's footman closed the door firmly, Darcy gave him a serious parting glance and nodded in encouragement. Bingley smiled at this, and turning on his heel, made his way swiftly toward the drawing room, his eyes gazing determinedly ahead of him.

The following morning at Longbourn, Elizabeth rose before the rest of the house, and dressing simply, made her way quietly downstairs while drawing her shawl tightly about her shoulders. Her mind recounting her father's revelations regarding Mr. Darcy's departure from Hertfordshire, Elizabeth moved down the hallway toward the dining room. She looked forward to a few moments of solitude, and hoped desperately that her father would join her before the others. Entering the dining room distractedly, she bit her lip thoughtfully and reflected on how her father came to be a correspondent of Mr. Darcy's.

‘It is wondrous indeed,' she thought, pausing behind her seat to grip its simple frame. ‘Whatever could have brought it about?'

Unable to answer such a question, she settled into her chair and smoothed the creases from her skirts. Sighing lightly in confusion, she straightened in her seat when she heard light footfalls enter the room and Hill's happy greeting.

"Good morning, Hill," Elizabeth answered, smiling toward the sound.

Approaching her young mistress, Hill declared, "You are awake very early this morning, miss; I gather the rest of the family will not be down for at least a half hour."

Blushing guiltily, Elizabeth remained silent as Hill added merrily, "But from your countenance, I see that is what you hoped."

Elizabeth shrugged lightly, and lifting her teacup from its customary place at her left, she raised it and asked Hill if she might fill it for her. Smiling broadly, Hill said, "Your father is awake though, and happily sitting in his library. He said he wished to see to some correspondence before breakfast."

Her eyes widening in surprise, Elizabeth turned fully toward her housekeeper and asked, "Did he receive any letters today?"

"He did, miss," Hill answered as she straightened several plates. "Just one, but he seemed most interested in it."

Setting the teapot beside Elizabeth, Hill added thoughtfully, "In all my years with your family, I have never seen him so attentive to the post."

Hill wished Elizabeth a fine morning and departed, moving down the hall toward the kitchen so that she might finish her preparations for breakfast. Elizabeth listened as her footsteps diminished, and after sipping lightly from her cup, set it carefully down and stood quickly from her seat. Moving out into the hallway and pressing her hand against the cold wall, she made her way toward her father's library. Arriving at its door, Elizabeth raised her hand, but dropped it silently. Uncertain how to breach the subject of Mr. Darcy's letter to him, Elizabeth breathed deeply, and closing her eyes, knocked lightly.

"Enter," Mr. Bennet called from his usual seat behind his desk.

On seeing his daughter quietly slip into the room, Mr. Bennet laid his pen aside and smiled broadly, asking, "To what do I owe the pleasure of your company so early in the day, my dear?"

Counting her steps toward the seat across from him, Elizabeth answered, "Hill told me I could find you here, and I thought we might pass the time until breakfast together."

"A lovely idea," he said happily.

Elizabeth listened to her father settle back into his seat and she imagined he waited for her to begin their discussion. Curling her fingers around the seat of her chair, Elizabeth willed her voice steady and asked, "I hope I am not keeping you from your correspondence."

Mr. Bennet smiled slightly and declared, "You know I am quite content whenever I can put off the writing of a letter."

Elizabeth sighed in disappointment, and perceiving it, Mr. Bennet grinned openly and added, "Unless you believe I should complete my letter to Mr. Darcy immediately."

Starting at her father's mention of the man, Elizabeth involuntarily gripped her chair more tightly and answered evenly, "I believe no such thing, sir, but I would not keep you from writing it if you believe it is important."

Steepling his fingers and studying his daughter intently, Mr. Bennet watched the color rise to her cheeks and drain from her knuckles with the force of her hold on her seat. Realizing her discomfort, Mr. Bennet leaned forward to address her quietly.

"I will put off its writing, for I need your opinion on something before I continue," he said seriously. "You are undoubtedly wondering how I came to be a correspondent of such an illustrious young man."

Smiling slightly, Elizabeth declared, "I am certain he is honored to have you as one, Papa."

Waving his hand dismissively, Mr. Bennet exclaimed, "No, no; no compliments please!"

Moving back into his seat, he added, "I initiated it; I confess I was very curious to discover why he left our company so abruptly."

Turning toward her father in surprise, Elizabeth said, "And he wrote to inform you of the fire."

Nodding solemnly, Mr. Bennet answered, "He did indeed; I should have apprised you of that letter's contents as soon as I received it. I thought you too occupied with Charlotte's engagement, and I did not wish to burden you with worry over his welfare."

"Why would I worry over his welfare?" Elizabeth breathed out in surprise, feeling the heat rise more quickly to her face.

Raising his brow speculatively, Mr. Bennet asked, "Was he not a friend of yours?"

"Oh," Elizabeth said simply, her heartbeat rising as she reflected on his question. "Yes, I suppose he was."

Noticing his daughter's distraction and the quaver in her voice, Mr. Bennet admonished himself once again for his silence about Mr. Darcy's departure. Standing from his seat, he moved swiftly to the seat beside Elizabeth and studied her carefully.

"I am happy you should say that," he said casually. "I have received an invitation from him asking that you and Jane, and your aunt and uncle, of course, join him for dinner during your time in London."

Elizabeth inhaled sharply at this, and her brow rose in wonder as her father continued, "He mentions wishing to introduce his sister to you all."

Turning her face toward the floor in an effort to hide her blush, Elizabeth reflected on this intelligence, and wondered at the meaning of it. Closing her eyes briefly, she recalled his clear voice and the comfort of his touch. She imagined him standing in the door frame of his home, his tall frame erect and noble while he welcomed her warmly and extended his hand to her. She shivered slightly at the vision and breathed deeply to steady her mind.

‘Whatever could he mean by wishing me to become acquainted with his sister?' Elizabeth wondered as she opened her eyes.

Shaking her head lightly to rid herself fully of her pleasant thoughts, she determined that such an offer was merely that of a friend, and his invitation to dine with them was all politeness.

"I would be happy to make her acquaintance," Elizabeth answered quietly, drawing a deep breath to calm her racing mind and heart. "I heard Miss Bingley speak of her often; she sounds like a delightful girl."

Mr. Bennet watched his second eldest, weighing her quiet response and slight blush, and asked, "Shall I ask your aunt and uncle which day they might be at leisure then?"

Elizabeth nodded distractedly, her fingers playing idly with the edge of her shawl. She remained silent, hearing the sounds of her family rising above stairs; Lydia's boisterous laughter as she called for Sarah, Catherine's light coughing, and her mother's cries for Hill. Laughing lightly at their behavior, Elizabeth turned toward her father.

"Thank you, Papa," she said impulsively, feeling her many doubts and fears dissipating slightly.

Mr. Bennet's brow furrowed and he asked, "Whatever for, my dear?"

Elizabeth blushed furiously at her blunder, and admonishing herself for her candor, raised her face to his to answer calmly, "I believe we shall be having breakfast soon."

Standing from her seat, she moved surely toward the door and added, "Thank you for allowing me to keep you company."

Mr. Bennet smiled as his daughter opened the door, but called out to her to stay her progress and declared, "I find Mr. Darcy a very worthy young man, Lizzy."

Elizabeth blushed at this, and recognizing that her father understood her far more than she credited him, she smiled slightly before answering, "As do I, Papa."

Opening the door fully, she continued quietly, "I will see you at breakfast."

With that, she moved out into the hallway and closed the door firmly behind her. Despite her best efforts, she could not help but feel a surge of excitement well within her, and a sense of peace calm her mind, which had been so tormented over the past weeks. Feeling confident that she should see him at least once during her stay in London, Elizabeth moved happily toward the dining room, reflecting that regardless of the outcome, she could at least speak with him once more.

Mrs. Gardiner descended from the carriage, smiling happily as her eyes took in the familiar sight of people busily moving about on Gracechurch Street. Thanking her footman, she moved aside and watched as Jane and Elizabeth stepped out into the brisk air and onto the muddied street. Watching her nieces carefully, she reflected that both had been uncharacteristically quiet on their journey, choosing to keep counsel with themselves rather than talking animatedly which had been their custom in previous years. Turning her eyes toward Jane, who quietly instructed the footman as to her bags, Mrs. Gardiner's brow furrowed sadly, feeling heartily sorry for her niece's disappointment. She was quite shocked by her sister-in-law's vehement dismissal of the young tenant at Netherfield, and supposing Mr. Bingley quite the villain from this report, had sought out her niece that evening in order to hear her account of his stay in Hertfordshire. Jane had quietly assured her aunt that she found Mr. Bingley gentlemanly, and for herself had nothing to accuse him of, but instead enjoyed her acquaintance with him. Noticing that Jane's eyes dimmed slightly with each word, Mrs. Gardiner reflected that her niece felt far more for this Mr. Bingley than she was willing to admit.

Sighing slightly, Mrs. Gardiner looked toward Elizabeth, and smiled as she watched her make her way up the few stairs toward the entrance of their home on her uncle's arm. She laughed lightly when the door opened unceremoniously to reveal her youngest son, who surged forward happily and wrapped his arms around Elizabeth's knees. Elizabeth smiled brightly, and Mrs. Gardiner reflected that it was the first time since her arrival at Longbourn that she had seen Elizabeth thus. Mrs. Gardiner watched the display thoughtfully, reflecting on Elizabeth's distraction the past days. Knowing that Elizabeth was not one to confide easily when she was troubled, for she never wished to burden her family, Mrs. Gardiner resolved to watch her closely. Shaking herself from her reverie, she gathered her skirts and followed her family inside.

"It is wonderful to be home," Mr. Gardiner declared happily as he crossed the threshold. "London is delightful during the winter."

Smiling at her uncle's characteristic good humor and his love of the bustling city, Elizabeth said lightly, "So you have told us every year."

Blushing slightly, he answered, "Well it is no less true this year."

As a maid helped Elizabeth and Jane off with their heavy coats, Mrs. Gardiner told them that dinner would be in a half hour.

"Why do you both not go above stairs to refresh yourselves?" she offered, guiding them both toward the stairs.

Nodding their acceptance, Jane and Elizabeth made their way to their rooms. Elizabeth walked slowly, counting her steps carefully as she held fast to the banister. She had dedicated much of her previous stay to completing her study of the house and hoped that she might exercise it during her visit. Entering her room, Elizabeth breathed deeply and made her way forward until she felt the soft quilt of her bed. Smiling, she sat down and worked several stray curls back into their pins. As her fingers moved over the strands, she heard a light knock at her door.

"Come in, Jane," she called.

Jane moved into the room, a small smile gracing her face as she leaned on the bedpost and watched Elizabeth. Elizabeth raised a brow questioningly and asked, "Are you well, Jane?"

"Of course," Jane answered simply as she moved to sit beside her sister. "Why do you ask?"

"You were very quiet on our journey," Elizabeth observed, tucking a final strand securely behind her ear.

Reaching for her sister's hand and feeling her cold fingers, Elizabeth clasped it tightly and added, "I hope you will allow yourself to enjoy yourself during our stay here."

"I promise I will," Jane said quietly, returning the pressure of Elizabeth's hold. "I am happy to be here; the distraction is most welcome."

Elizabeth smiled sadly as her sister continued, "It is quite amazing Mr. Darcy should invite us to dinner."

"It is indeed," Elizabeth answered evenly, her mind turning to the thought that had so occupied her own mind during the past days. "It is very kind that he wishes to renew his acquaintance with us."

"Do you believe that is all it is, Lizzy?" Jane asked carefully, studying her sister's countenance.

Elizabeth felt the heat rise to her cheeks, and having no doubt they colored noticeably, she willed her voice steady and said, "I do not see that it could be anything else."

Jane released Elizabeth's hand and leaned back on her hands, stating, "His wishing you to meet his sister could certainly be interpreted as his wishing more than merely to renew his acquaintance with you."

"He wishes to introduce his sister to all of us," Elizabeth answered calmly, hoping that her sister would not continue.

"Perhaps," Jane smiled slightly, her fair eyes dancing merrily.

Recognizing the good humor in this small answer, Elizabeth smiled archly and asked, "You are not teasing me, are you, Jane?"

Standing from her seat, and moving toward the door, Jane echoed her previous answer and said, "Perhaps."

Elizabeth listened as Jane quickly fled the room, and for a moment she felt her previous worry lift, allowing herself to laugh lightly. Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth thought on her impending meeting with Mr. Darcy.

‘We are to meet with him in two days,' she reminded herself, recounting her father's telling her of Mr. Darcy's letter to him.

Crossing her arms to quell the shiver that ran through her at the thought of meeting with him again, and moving toward the window, Elizabeth leaned heavily against the frame.

"I have not met with him in over a month," she whispered. "Why ever would he want to meet with me now?"

As she attempted to convince herself that he was too much a gentleman to ignore an acquaintance he knew to be in Town, her heart whispered that his request to meet with them meant something more.

Smiling slightly, Elizabeth said softly, "It may."

Smoothing the creases on her gown, Elizabeth moved toward the door and made her way downstairs.

The following afternoon, Darcy drew a shaky breath, and pulling at his waistcoat nervously, he walked slowly up the steps. He glanced up at the edifice, feeling his heart beat more quickly with the knowledge she was within its walls. Pausing and shaking his head slightly to calm his mind, he tapped his cane anxiously on the stone step ahead of him.

‘Calm yourself, man,' he commanded himself impatiently. ‘There is nothing odd in your visiting them.'

Sighing slightly, he was reminded that he would see Elizabeth the following day. Glancing over his shoulder, he noticed his coachman watching him curiously.

‘The only thing odd is you standing out here like a fool,' he admonished himself. ‘It is only a polite visit to introduce yourself to her aunt and uncle.'

Rolling his shoulders to ease the tense muscles there, Darcy raised his left hand and rang the bell. A pleasant young maid answered the door, and taking his name, welcomed him into the front hall. He thanked her as she relieved him of his hat and gloves and helped him from his greatcoat. As she departed to fetch her master, Darcy clasped his hands behind his back and looked around the comfortable hall. He noted the furniture was simple, but the arrangement and colors pleasing, revealing the home's master and mistress' tastes as genuine and well-informed. Smiling slightly, and shifting his feet nervously, Darcy's attention was arrested by the light clear laughter of Elizabeth. He watched in amazement as the subject of his thoughts for countless hours was led happily into the room by two giggling young girls. His breath caught as his eyes took in her frame and memorized the beautiful line of her mouth when she smiled broadly at the children. He noted how well she looked in her gown of deep green and admitted willingly to himself how desperately he missed her company.

Elizabeth laughed lightly at her young cousins' antics, and kneeling in front of them, declared, "Very well, I will play your game, but only after you have seen to your studies."

The two girls agreed reluctantly, and each kissing their cousin lightly on the cheek, departed the room as quickly as they came. Elizabeth shook her head lightly, and rising from her position, dusted off her skirts. Darcy could not remove his eyes from her, and despite his best efforts, could not keep himself from moving forward to greet her.

On hearing the tentative, but strong, footfalls approaching her, Elizabeth turned in the direction of the sound. Her brow furrowed momentarily in confusion before her eyes widened in surprise and wonder with the realization of who stood before her. Pressing her hand to her heart to calm herself, Elizabeth's breath caught when she heard him greet her quietly.

"Good afternoon, Miss Bennet," Darcy said evenly.