Beginning, Previous Section, Section XXI

Chapter 56: The Promise of Tomorrow

Posted on 2010-07-24

The hour before luncheon found Mr. Bingley lowering himself from his saddle in front of Longbourn. He handed his reins to the groom and thanked him distractedly. He glanced up at the edifice and felt his breath quicken with the realization that he had forgotten all he wished to say. Tearing his hat from his head in frustration, he pushed a hand through his hair and began to pace. He closed his eyes in an attempt to recall the declaration he wished to make, but remembering none of it, he cursed and kicked at the gravel.

"Calm yourself," he whispered, digging his toe into the fine stone. "You will not win her making a spectacle of yourself in front of her home."

He realized how he must appear to anyone watching, and as Mrs. Bennet was within, someone was most certainly watching. Releasing a breath slowly, Bingley played with the brim of his hat while allowing his mind to return to those happy hours he had spent with Jane during the autumn. Her sweet smile had bewitched him, but it was her gentle spirit and kind nature which had made him her devoted servant. She was graceful and genteel, and her conversation well-informed. Indeed she would be an ideal companion and mistress for his home.

'How can I endeavor to deserve her?' he thought, resuming his pacing.

He had allowed himself to be persuaded against her, and he did not know if he could ever make amends for it. He bit out a curse and kicked at the stone again, silently berating himself for his blindness. So occupied was he that he did not notice the approach of the very woman who filled his thoughts.

Jane halted as she rounded the corner on the path, her sharp intake of breath causing Elizabeth to stop beside her. "Jane?" Elizabeth asked.

"It is Mr. Bingley," Jane breathed, her fingers tightening on the handle of the basket she held. "I thought he was not due for another hour."

Elizabeth smiled and declared, "It appears he was eager to be in our company."

Jane could only pinch Elizabeth's arm in response, for Bingley had recognized their presence and halted his movement. His eyes widened in surprise and his color rose as his gaze met Jane's.

Elizabeth felt the pair's embarrassment and smiled. "Good day, Mr. Bingley," she said in an effort to quiet their unease.

Bingley shook his head to clear his thoughts and replied, "Good day, Miss Elizabeth," and turning his eyes, he added quietly, "Good day, Miss Bennet."

Hearing his voice caused the tension in Jane's countenance to soften, and she nodded in response. She watched Bingley take a few steps forward while turning his hat absently in his hands. He halted before them and declared, "I feel I must apologize, for I realize I am before my time, but I thought perhaps, that is…I found myself at leisure…"

He stopped his stammering and lowered his eyes resolutely to study his boots. Elizabeth heard the trepidation in his voice and pressed Jane's arm to encourage her to speak. Jane realized her sister's intent and felt her cheeks flush.

"Please do not apologize, sir," she said, willing her own voice steady.

She paused, recalling her conversation with Elizabeth the previous evening, during which she shared what her hopes had been in the autumn and the bitterness of the disappointment she had felt. She also revealed that, despite her better judgment, she wished heartily that he would renew his addresses.

"But I suppose that is silly," she had asserted, her voice quiet and her fingers playing with the fringe of her shawl distractedly.

"Surely his returning to Hertfordshire must tell you what he is feeling, Jane," Elizabeth had said, tucking her feet beneath her as they sat before the comfortable fire in her bedroom. "Can you not allow yourself to at least hope?"

Sighing, she shook her head and replied, "We cannot know what his intentions are."

Elizabeth reached out her fingers until they encountered Jane's arm and moved her hand up and down to soothe her. "This is true, but you once counseled me when I experienced the same uncertainty you are feeling," Elizabeth began. "So allow me to offer this; do not discount him, but accept the idea that he might intend to renew his addresses. You are so very good, Jane. You deserve happiness, and if you know Mr. Bingley can make you happy then at least grant him the opportunity to make amends."

Now, as Jane thought on Elizabeth's words, her lips turned up in a gentle smile. Her gaze drifted to Bingley's countenance and she studied his features. She welcomed the opportunity to watch him so freely, but realized she must speak again.

"We are very happy you have come," she confessed, willing him to raise his face.

Bingley's eyes widened at her soft declaration, and he looked toward her to see her watching him intently, her cheeks flushed slightly. He felt his heart swell at the vision and could do naught but smile. He opened his mouth to speak, but was prevented by the joyful squeal of Mrs. Bennet, who had appeared in the doorway in search of her daughters and was elated to be surprised by his presence.

"Mr. Bingley!" she cried, picking up her skirts and hurrying toward them. "We were not expecting you before luncheon."

"Forgive me, Mrs. Bennet," he answered, bowing. "I…"

But he was unable to continue, for Mrs. Bennet quickly wound her arm about his and began to lead him into the house. "Hill is still finishing the preparations, but you must come into the drawing room for some tea. You will be far more comfortable there," she declared, looking pointedly at Jane and willing her to follow them.

Jane acquiesced, and gently touching Elizabeth's arm, she moved after her mother and Bingley. In the foyer, she laid the basket she held aside as Elizabeth removed her spencer. Sarah arrived and retrieved Bingley's greatcoat, hat, and riding crop from him, before returning to the dining room to see to the settings. Mrs. Bennet swiftly ushered Bingley down the hallway and into the drawing room. Mary and Catherine were within and both rose from their places to greet him.

"Will you not sit, Mr. Bingley?" Mrs. Bennet asked, raising her hand and inviting him to the seat across from Jane.

He thanked her and lowered himself into the chair before returning his gaze to Jane. Jane dropped her eyes and felt certain that the color in her face had risen. Mrs. Bennet did not miss the silent exchange, her eyes widening in realization. She twisted her handkerchief in an effort to contain her joy, but paused when an idea struck her. Turning her eyes to Catherine, she caught her gaze, and winking, inclined her head toward the door. Jane and Mary did not miss their mother's action, and each felt the embarrassment of it. Mary resolutely fixed her spectacles on her nose and turned her gaze back to the volume of verse she held, while Jane studied the carpet and tightened her hold on her seat. After a moment, Catherine realized her mother sought her attention, but uncertain of the cause, her brow furrowed in confusion.

"What is it, Mama?" she asked, causing the others to turn toward her. "What is it you wish me to do?"

Mrs. Bennet ceased her movement, for even Bingley watched her questioningly. Raising her chin, she declared, "I do not know what you are talking about. You are surely mistaken, Kitty."

Shaking her head, Catherine asserted, "You looked as if you wished me to fetch something. Did you not wink at me?"

If he was not so nervous, Bingley would have been the only occupant of the room to find humor in this, for Mrs. Bennet's other daughters groaned inwardly at the transparency of their mother's actions. Mrs. Bennet felt her countenance flush and forced a look of surprise to her face.

"Why ever would I wink at my own daughter?" she cried. "What a foolish notion! And as for fetching something, you know very well we have all we need."

Catherine shifted beneath her mother's stern gaze and sniffled uncomfortably. Elizabeth felt her sister's embarrassment, and knowing her to be beside her, reached out her hand to squeeze her fingers. Catherine thanked her quietly, but started when her mother addressed her again.

"But I am reminded of something I wished to speak with you about," Mrs. Bennet declared, rising from her seat. "Come with me."

Catherine looked in alarm toward Jane and Mary, and realizing her mother's intent, Mary shook her head slightly. She watched as her younger sister stood and felt her annoyance grow when her mother ordered her to come as well.

Glancing toward Jane, she said, "Surely it can wait, Mama. We have a guest, and Hill undoubtedly is almost finished her preparations for lunch."

"It most certainly cannot wait, Mary," Mrs. Bennet replied sharply. "You can put aside your novel for a moment and indulge your mother. Indeed it does not do to be so bookish."

Mary sighed, and knowing she did not stand to win this argument, she snapped her volume closed and removed her spectacles. Rising from her seat, she smiled apologetically at Jane and followed after her mother. Elizabeth listened to the exchange in wonder, feeling her irritation with her mother growing steadily. The silence that filled the room was palpable, and Elizabeth wished desperately to put Jane and Bingley at ease. Before she could even speak, Sarah appeared at the door.

"Miss Elizabeth," she greeted nervously. "You are wanted upstairs."

Elizabeth closed her eyes and asked, "May I ask what it is in regard to?"

Sarah blushed, for she was unprepared for such a response. "Your mother did not specify," she stammered. "But she was quite insistent."

Feeling she could do naught but acquiesce, for surely her mother would come downstairs and drag her from the room if she did not, Elizabeth stood. "Well then; I am sure it is very important," she said flatly.

She felt Jane's terrified gaze on her, for earlier that morning she had begged Elizabeth not to leave her alone. Elizabeth willed her sister to understand, and excusing herself, counted her steps into the hallway. Once outside, she leaned against the wall, and though she cursed her mother's behavior, she hoped that the result of it would bring Jane happiness. She listened closely and heard no sound from the drawing room.

"Lizzy!" her mother called from above.

Closing her eyes to the exclamation, Elizabeth moved toward the staircase and climbed it reluctantly. "Coming, Mama," she said as she reached the landing.

Meanwhile, Bingley's gaze remained riveted on Jane, though she would not meet his eyes. To distract herself, she poured out tea and set the delicate cup before him. Before she could withdraw, she was surprised by Bingley rising from his seat to take her hand. Her light eyes widened and rose to his. Though it was not her intention, the look served to remind him that she had granted him no such liberty, and that she need not, given his previous behavior towards her. His countenance fell at the thought and he released her fingers. He stepped back, and pushing his hand through his hair, he began pacing. Jane watched him, and as always, he was acutely aware of her gaze.

"Forgive me, Miss Bennet," he declared finally, stopping before the window and training his eyes on the scenery beyond. "I know not what I was thinking."

Jane released the breath she had been holding and felt her throat tighten, feeling that perhaps she had allowed herself to hope for no reason. She lowered her face to hide the tears she felt gathering in the corners of her eyes. Drawing an unsteady breath, she was surprised when he addressed her again.

"That is not true," he confessed suddenly, clasping his hands behind his back and turning toward her. "I was thinking that I would be the happiest of men if you would grant me permission to sit beside you for a moment."

Jane found she could only nod, and when he lowered himself onto the cushion beside her, she shivered. Bingley saw the movement, and that she still would not meet his gaze. He sighed, fearing that her opinion of him was irrevocably damaged, but realized he would never forgive himself if he left this house without baring his heart to her.

"I must confess something to you," he began softly. "I am entirely unworthy of your good opinion."

At this, Jane turned her gaze to him in surprise, for this was certainly not the confession she was expecting. Bingley smiled at her astonishment and continued, "When I departed from Netherfield in the autumn, I did so believing that I could never be happy again. But I was entirely deceived, and I cannot begin to atone for my foolishness."

He paused and studied his hands before adding, "And for my weakness."

Jane heard the despondency in his voice, and for the first time, she realized that perhaps he had suffered as she had. Perhaps he felt their separation as acutely as she. She watched him, and when he raised his gaze to hers, she could see that she was correct; his eyes shone with remorse, apprehension, admiration, and something far deeper.

"I allowed myself to be persuaded that I did not know my own heart, and worse than that, that I did not know you," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "And for that I will be forever ashamed."

He bit his lip in thought, and felt the color rise to his cheeks as he continued, "But I do know my own heart, and it is quite filled with you."

Jane gasped and felt tears gathering at the corners of her eyes before spilling down her cheeks in steady cool streams. Bingley watched her countenance brighten and moved his other hand to cover hers. Cradling her delicate fingers between his own, he finally allowed himself to smile.

"If you can forgive me after all of my blindness and blundering, I will spend the rest of my days endeavoring to make amends," he declared.

Unbeknownst to the pair, for they were far more agreeably engaged, Mrs. Bennet watched Elizabeth pace fretfully up and down the length of the sitting room. Mary attempted to occupy Catherine by reading some sedate verse to her.

"You are certain we are doing the right thing by remaining up here, Mama?" Catherine asked again, her eyes following Elizabeth's form. "I imagine Jane was quite mortified by our abandoning her."

Elizabeth halted her step and asserted, "Jane made me promise I would not leave her. You must let me return to her, Mama."

Mrs. Bennet was untouched by this entreaty and instead smiled in satisfaction. "Five more minutes will do the trick; of that I am certain," she answered.

Elizabeth huffed in annoyance, and reaching out her hand, she searched for the arm of the chair she knew to be near the window. When she found it, she fell onto it unceremoniously.

"Well I suppose I should be comforted, for if Mr. Bingley does not intend to propose, Papa will at least have to insist that he do so in order to preserve Jane's reputation," Elizabeth observed, her brow furrowing unhappily.

"Oh, nonsense," Mrs. Bennet said, waving her hand dismissively. "A few minutes alone will do nothing but secure her future happiness."

"Perhaps Lizzy is right, Mama. Whatever will he think?" Catherine asked, turning her attention entirely from Mary.

Elizabeth shook her head, declaring, "Let us hope Mr. Bingley is too much a gentleman to be offended by such a transparent scheme."

Mrs. Bennet remained unmoved, and only when she was satisfied Mr. Bingley had had enough time to speak his heart, she rose from her seat. Elizabeth heard the movement and slipped out of the room before her, taking the stairs as swiftly as she could while sliding her hand along the banister. Arriving at the bottom of the stairs, she was grateful to be joined soon after by Mary and Catherine. Together, they made their way to the drawing room door, but before they could discern any noise within, the door swung open to reveal an elated and surprised Mr. Bingley.

"Oh, ladies!" he cried at seeing the three standing before him. "If you will excuse me, I find I have a particular matter to discuss with your father."

Glancing over his shoulder and catching Jane's happy gaze, he added, "And I wish to waste no more time."

With that, he bowed and hurried down the hallway toward the library. The sisters watched him go in wonder, before turning their attention to Jane, who sat near the window. Noticing her sister's peaceful countenance, Catherine hurried forward into the room. Taking Elizabeth's hand, Mary followed after her.

When they came to a halt before Jane, Elizabeth asked, "Well?"

They awaited Jane's affirmation but were surprised when her gentle laughter filled the room. Several tears wound their way down her cheeks and she grinned happily as she turned her attention to her sisters.

"Oh, Lizzy!" she breathed out, rising from her seat.

Elizabeth felt Jane's arms wrap about her shoulders and her head lay against her shoulder. "He loves me," Jane continued quietly. "He loves me."

"Of course he does," Elizabeth laughed, returning Jane's embrace.

Jane stepped back and smiled at each of her sisters before adding, "He says he always has. He so regrets having left Hertfordshire in November."

Before she could continue, Catherine threw her arms about Jane's neck and cried, "He is lucky you are so forgiving! I do not know if I would have been. I believe I would have rejected him at least once and encouraged him to prove his affection."

Releasing Jane, Catherine folded her hands before her and continued, "Like a great knight would have done for his lady. It would have been ever so romantic."

"I see nothing romantic about torturing a man with a rejection when you mean to accept him should he ask again," Mary asserted, moving around Catherine to embrace her eldest sister. "Jane did exactly as she ought."

Jane's countenance glowed as she pressed Mary's shoulders. Releasing her, she declared, "I must go to our mother. I have no doubt she is wondering what came of her plotting."

Elizabeth shook her head and said, "I assure you she was quite confident her scheme would succeed. Indeed, I would be surprised if she has not all ready visited Lady Lucas to boast of her success."

Jane pressed Elizabeth's hand fondly and turned on her heel to depart. Mary and Catherine followed her, but Elizabeth elected to remain. She listened to their steps diminish before reaching out her hand to find the high back of the chair Jane had vacated. Before she could make herself comfortable, she heard her mother's cries of elation and reflected that she was glad she chose not to join them above stairs. She smiled, feeling that perhaps Jane's engagement would restore the easiness that had left Longbourn with Lydia's flight.

"I am glad to hear your mother is so well pleased with Jane's news," Mr. Bennet declared as he observed his daughter from the doorway. "Indeed, I think she need not visit Lady Lucas and Mrs. Philips to tell them of it, for surely they have already heard her elation."

Elizabeth chuckled, and rising from her seat, smoothed the creases from her gown. She made her way toward his voice and observed, "You are certainly right. I believe the sound of it has even carried to Meryton by now."

Mr. Bennet smiled and took Elizabeth's hand to place it at his elbow. "I was happy to give him my consent, and I think they will do well together," he observed.

"But will Mr. Bingley enjoy having so many sisters, I wonder?" she asked lightly as they made their way into the hallway.

They heard Mrs. Bennet's joyful chatter, and sighing, she added, "Or so exuberant a mother?"

Patting his daughter's hand, Mr. Bennet asserted, "Mr. Bingley strikes me as a patient young man. I do not think we need to worry for him."

They heard Mrs. Bennet calling for them and urging them to come to the dining room. When they did not hurry to fulfill her request, she huffed and turned her attention to Bingley and Jane, ushering the two of them down the hallway.

"Hill has quite outdone herself," she said proudly. "Indeed, I think you will be most pleased with the fish, Mr. Bingley."

When she and her father were alone again, Elizabeth smirked and declared, "Let us hope then that Mr. Bingley's patience is boundless."

Mr. Bennet chuckled, and pressing her hand, he continued down the hallway. "No doubt your Mr. Darcy is not used to such…excitement. I imagine Pemberley must be a more serene place than Longbourn."

Elizabeth smiled as her mind turned to Darcy and his elation over the prospect of showing his beloved home to her. "I am sure you are right, but I suppose I shall discover that for myself soon enough," she said softly.

Her father came to a halt, surprising her with the abruptness of the action. Had she been able to, she would have seen her father's countenance turn suddenly pensive. She felt his hold on her arm tighten unconsciously and her brow knitted in confusion at the feeling.

"Papa?" she asked. "What is it?"

He remained silent, his mind turning to how the coming years would be without Elizabeth in his home. He felt he would miss her spirited conversation in the evenings and at the table at meal time. He would mourn the loss of her company on his walks and her laughter filtering through the house. One of his greatest fears since the onset of her blindness had been that she would be relegated to a life within Longbourn's walls, but now, as the day of her departure approached, his heart wrenched at the idea of her going. Turning his gaze to her, he studied her features and placed his hand gently on her cheek.

"I am only realizing how heartily I shall miss you," he confessed. "Without you and Jane, I do not know what I shall do."

Elizabeth smiled, and taking his hand, she brought it in front of her. "Dearest Papa," she began, pressing his fingers. "Jane will be nearby, and Pemberley will always be open to you."

"Your Mr. Darcy will grow quite tired of me, for I believe I will come often," he asserted.

"I have no doubt he will be as happy to receive you as I will be," she replied. "I hope you will come to Derbyshire whenever you are at leisure."

Mr. Bennet's countenance brightened and he returned Elizabeth's hand to its place on his arm. Moving toward the dining room, he asserted, "I have heard that Pemberley's library is quite impressive."

Elizabeth acknowledged that she had heard the same, and as they rejoined the family to celebrate Jane and Bingley's engagement, she thought on her future home. She would be far from Hertfordshire and the people who knew her. In Derbyshire, none would know her history or of the fever which had taken her sight. She would not be known in the parish, shops, or village, and the residents of Lambton would only be able to speculate as to the new Mrs. Darcy and the cause of her blindness. They would surely watch her and feel pity for her that she should always be accompanied by her husband, Georgiana, or some other companion. For a time, they would wonder at Darcy's marrying her, for surely they had expected the most eligible of men from their county to marry a woman of great significance, and yet he had chosen her. She smiled at the thought and a light blush spread across her cheeks. She absently pushed her potatoes around her plate, unaware of what was being discussed around her. Her family surely would have questioned her reticence had not they been occupied with the fine meal and Bingley's conversation. Elizabeth enjoyed the privacy their distraction provided, and as the meal drew on, she continued to think on her future at Pemberley. In only two weeks' time, she would discover its beauty for herself. She was not intimidated by the prospect, and instead she looked forward to exploring the vast rooms. Her fingers would travel over the banisters as she counted the stairs. She would feel the smoothness of the walls as she passed down the undoubtedly innumerable hallways.

'I am certain I will get hopelessly lost,' she reflected, her lips turning up in a small grin.

Though she tried desperately to contain it, she could not prevent the small chuckle that escaped her as she thought on Pemberley's staff finding her wondering aimlessly in search of some room. She imagined it would be quite improper for Mrs. Darcy to appear in the kitchens when she meant to be in the drawing room. She pressed her napkin to her lips to quell her laughter which had now drawn the attention of the rest of the company.

"What is it that amuses you so, Lizzy?" Mrs. Bennet asked, her brow knitting in wonder as she observed her daughter.

Her inquiry had quite the opposite effect than the one she had intended, and as Elizabeth continued to giggle, Mrs. Bennet shook her head. Glancing at her husband down the length of the table, she looked at him pointedly. Mr. Bennet caught her gaze and had no doubt she blamed him for the interruption to her otherwise perfectly planned meal, believing he must have told Elizabeth some joke. Shrugging lightly, he turned his gaze to Elizabeth and watched as she touched her napkin to the corners of her eyes to remove the happy tears that had gathered in them. The sight caused his heart to swell, and with a pang of sadness, he remembered that the sight of his favorite child smiling would soon not be so readily available to him. Shaking his head to clear such thoughts, he settled back in his seat and studied her as a serene smile lightened his countenance.

'She is happy,' he thought.

With this knowledge, he felt he could bear her absence, and as his smile brightened, his dry chuckle joined hers.

The next week passed swiftly at Longbourn, for the news of Jane's engagement and Elizabeth's upcoming nuptials passed quickly through the village and their many neighbors called to offer their congratulations. Jane and Elizabeth received their compliments and good wishes graciously, but it was Mrs. Bennet who found the most enjoyment in these visits. She felt it a personal triumph to have three daughters soon married, or so she told Lady Lucas late one morning over tea.

"God has been very good to us," she added, filling Lady Lucas' cup and handing it to her.

Thanking her, Lady Lucas raised the cup to her lips. "You must be very pleased," she declared kindly. "It must ease your mind so."

"Yes; Mama has worried since we were in nursery clothes that we would all become old maids," Elizabeth asserted wryly from her place at the pianoforte. "And forever live at Longbourn to tear her nerves to tiny shreds."

Jane, who sat in the chair nearest Elizabeth, laid her needlework aside and swatted her sister's arm lightly. "Lizzy," she whispered, her light eyes sparkling despite her tone. "It will not do to upset our mother while we have guests."

Elizabeth grinned wickedly and continued her playing, her fingers moving over the keys as she played the light Irish ballad. "Do not smirk like that, Miss Lizzy," her mother asserted, "When you have five daughters you will understand my fretting!"

Pressing her lips together tightly to quell her smile, Elizabeth thought it better to heed Jane's advice. When she played the last chords of the piece, Maria Lucas clapped enthusiastically and observed, "If only I could play as fine as you do, I believe I could find myself a husband, but as I do not play, sing, or paint with any great skill I shall forever be alone."

Elizabeth slid her hands from the keys and turned toward her friend's voice. "You are still quite young to be thinking in such a way," she said gently.

"I am almost as old as Lydia," Maria declared, raising her chin and drawing herself up in her seat. "She is already married and settled."

Hearing this, Mary rolled her eyes heavenward and settled her spectacles more securely on her nose before turning her attention to the volume she held. Catherine huffed in annoyance and busied herself with pouring tea for them all.

Laying her chin in her hand, Maria added, "I shall write her. Perhaps she can find me a husband in Newcastle."

Elizabeth was thankful that Sir William and his wife had managed to keep the details of Lydia's transgressions from their younger daughter. She had no doubt Maria would someday learn of them, but she prayed it would be when the girl no longer admired Lydia so.

"Lydia's particular way of getting a husband is not to be envied," Elizabeth asserted evenly. "You would do better to not seek her advice."

Catherine halted her movements and almost dropped the teapot in surprise at Elizabeth's frankness. She looked warily at Jane and Mary, both of whom looked as bewildered as she. Maria's brow furrowed in confusion and she studied Elizabeth's countenance, which had grown quite serious. Jane saw Maria open her mouth to inquire after Elizabeth's meaning and quickly sought to distract her.

"You need no advice from Lydia," Jane interjected, willing Maria to turn her attention from Elizabeth. "You are far too severe upon yourself. You are quite pretty and you have forgotten what an accomplished dancer you are."

Maria smiled and a pleasing blush spread across her cheeks. "Thank you, but you are being too kind," she said.

Elizabeth was thankful that Jane's compliment had flattered Maria's vanity and succeeded in distracting her. She sighed and willed her annoyance with Lydia to quiet, for she knew it would not do to dwell on it and risk revealing the truth of it to Maria.

Forcing a smile to her face, she asked, "Have you had any news from Charlotte?"

"Not since last week," Maria began, her earlier confusion over Elizabeth's comment entirely forgotten. "But my father had a letter from Mr. Collins yesterday."

Elizabeth stiffened at the mention of her cousin, but managed, "And what news does he send from Hunsford?"

Maria's eyes brightened at the chance to share what her father had told them that morning. "Well, it seems that Lady Catherine is still quite put out by your marrying her nephew," she declared, leaning forward excitedly. "Mr. Collins wrote that they have not been invited to Rosings at all this last fortnight."

Elizabeth jaw tightened at the thought of Charlotte being slighted on her account. She said tightly, "That is a great shame. I know how important Lady Catherine's patronage is to Mr. Collins and surely your sister enjoyed the company at Rosings."

"Not at all!" Maria cried, forgetting herself for a moment.

She clapped her hands over her mouth and glanced to where her mother sat near Mrs. Bennet. She was glad to see them still engaged in an earnest discussion of the silks available at the milliner's shop in Meryton. Returning her attention to her friends, she smiled.

"Whatever do you mean?" Elizabeth asked. "Has Charlotte been unhappy?"

Elizabeth's heart dropped, realizing that perhaps her greatest fear for her friend had come true. Maria must have seen her discomfort, for she reached out to press her hand.

"She has not been unhappy," Maria declared. "I suppose it is merely not what she expected her life as a curate's wife to be. I believe she expected to be of greater use to the people of the parish, but Lady Catherine so often requires her company that it prevents her."

Shaking her head, Elizabeth observed, "I believe there are few clergymen with patronesses as…"

"Particular," Mary finished for her, for she felt certain the words Elizabeth was searching for were not at all appropriate to the current company.

Maria nodded and confessed, "Charlotte has on occasion expressed her dismay at always having to receive Lady Catherine's advice."

Recalling a letter Charlotte had written during the first week of her marriage, Mary observed, "I understand Lady Catherine did a great deal to the parsonage before your sister's arrival."

"Oh yes," Maria answered. "There is not a stick of furniture in the place that she did not select. And she still has many suggestions for the running of the household. She advised Mr. Collins to put shelves in the closets and he obliged the very next day!"

Elizabeth shook her head and said wryly, "Shelves in the closet; happy thought indeed."

Maria chuckled and declared, "Perhaps you understand then Charlotte's relief at not being always expected at Rosings for tea and supper."

Feeling more at ease, Elizabeth turned away from the pair and returned her fingers to the ivory keys. She played softly, and continued to listen as Maria told Jane of Charlotte's new pursuits. She was pleased to hear her friend might now have the chance to find the contentment she sought, but she felt saddened by the prospect of spending little time with her. The distance of Pemberley, and Mr. Collins' disapproval of her marriage, would surely prevent her meeting often with her friend. Though she hoped someday Darcy would be able to mend his relationship with his aunt, she doubted they should ever visit Rosings Park. Sighing, she prayed that Charlotte would at least be permitted to visit with them in Derbyshire on occasion. These thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of the gentlemen, who had gathered for a shooting outing, and her mother's exclamation of delight at Mr. Bingley's entrance. Elizabeth halted her playing and turned toward the direction of the sound.

"I hope you have a pleasant outing, sir," Mrs. Bennet said, her countenance glowing as Bingley crossed the room to kiss Jane's hand in greeting.

Tearing his gaze from his intended, Bingley declared, "I am certain I will, for I do not believe I have had a better hunt than the day Darcy and I joined Mr. Bennet in Longbourn's west pasture."

Mrs. Bennet beamed as if the population of covies that resided there were her own doing, and noting his wife's satisfaction, Mr. Bennet asserted dryly, "Yes; my wife had the birds selected particularly for that outing. She even selected the dimmest specimens so that they would not scatter when they heard our step."

Mrs. Bennet frowned in indignation at Mr. Bennet's jest and declared, "Do not be ridiculous, Mr. Bennet. I did nothing of the sort."

Mr. Bennet chuckled and invited the gentlemen to his library. Bingley declined, and Elizabeth felt she knew the cause, for she heard him lower himself onto the seat beside Jane. Sir William accepted with alacrity, and after kissing his wife's hand reverently, he followed after Mr. Bennet. When their husbands had departed, the ladies resumed their discussion, leaving Bingley's entertainment to their daughters.

"I trust you are all having a pleasant morning," Bingley declared, his eyes seeking Jane's countenance.

She blushed at his attention and answered, "We are, sir."

"Charles," he corrected quietly, watching in delight as her color heightened further.

Jane dropped her gaze to her hands and nodded before asserting, "We are having a lovely time, Charles."

Bingley's heart swelled happily at the sound of his name, but reminding himself that they were in company, he contented himself with pressing her hand. He was pleased when he heard her sigh happily, for he was still amazed at his good fortune at retaining her affection after all these months. Settling back into his seat, he turned his attention to Elizabeth.

"You must be very pleased at the prospect of Darcy's coming," he declared.

Elizabeth smiled and confessed that she was before returning her fingers to the pianoforte. Bingley grinned at her attempt to hide her blushing countenance and continued, "I must confess I was surprised by the invitation to spend the day with you all, for I would have thought you preparing for his arrival."

Chuckling, Elizabeth answered, "Oh our mother has been, but as she has a few more days, she has elected to rest in her preparations today."

Bingley's brow furrowed at this and he asked, "Then you have not heard?"

At the puzzled expressions of the ladies before him, Bingley smiled. Turning fully to Elizabeth, he said, "Mr. Darcy is due to arrive at Netherfield tomorrow."

Elizabeth started and asked, "Tomorrow? He is to arrive tomorrow?"

"He is indeed," Bingley declared, his smile widening at her astonishment. "I am sure your father will receive an express similar to the one I received at breakfast. I expected him on Friday, just as you, but he writes that his physician visited him yesterday and has agreed he is well enough to travel."

Bingley shook his head in wonder at his friend's fortitude and continued, "I am certain he would have come sooner than this had his sister not forbidden it, but as Mr. Byatt has given his approval, she has agreed to the scheme."

Elizabeth listened in amazement and said distractedly, "I am happy to hear it."

Meanwhile, Catherine clapped her hands in excitement and cried, "After all you have told us of her, Lizzy, I have so looked forward to meeting Miss Darcy!"

Maria's eyes brightened as she observed, "She must be very elegant."

"She is indeed," Jane declared.

"And she is an accomplished musician?" Mary asked.

"Darcy himself has said no one but Miss Elizabeth rivals her at the instrument," Bingley professed, watching as the girl in front of him smiled with the knowledge that she would soon acquire another musical partner.

Elizabeth listened as the younger girls begged Jane and Bingley to tell them more of Georgiana. She was thankful when they agreed to do so, for it afforded her some solitude. She turned in her seat, facing away from the others. She had imagined her reunion with Darcy countless times since his departure from Longbourn, but now that it would soon become a reality, she found herself quite anxious for it. Her hands shook in anticipation and she clasped them to her chest to steady them.

'What will I say to him?' she wondered.

They had not conversed since the evening of his departure when they stood together in the dining room, each uncertain of what to say or do to lessen the pain of Lydia's flight. Her mind screamed that she must thank him for his kindness to her family, but she had no desire to broach the subject of Lydia and Wickham's marriage with him. She reminded herself that she was not to even know of it, and that she had promised her father quite faithfully that she would not reveal that it was he who revealed it to her. Wringing her hands, she wondered if they would ever escape the discomfort and mortification that had accompanied these last weeks.

'Is not this supposed to be a time of joy?' she thought ruefully.

Their courtship had been entirely unconventional, as had the whole of their relationship, and yet she realized that it did not matter. Wickham's treachery, Lydia's foolishness, Lady Catherine's disapproval, and the opinions of others were of little consequence anymore. Nothing mattered, but the knowledge that he would return to her tomorrow.

She laid her fingers against the keys of the pianoforte once more and smiled.

Chapter 57: A Long-Awaited Reunion

Posted on 2010-08-28

Georgiana was thankful that the day dawned fair, for it granted them a much more pleasant journey. As they entered Hertfordshire, she unlatched the window and lowered it so that she might better study the landscape they passed. Her eyes traced a particularly beautiful hillside, and she hoped to have the opportunity to explore it. When it disappeared behind them, she sighed impatiently and settled herself back into the soft cushions of their conveyance. Darcy heard the noise and raised his eyes from the small volume he held.

"Impatient, dear sister?" he asked, a small smirk lighting his features.

Georgiana sighed in exasperation and declared, "Perhaps a little anxious."

Closing his book, he regarded her and said, "What could possibly make you anxious?"

"I am to be introduced to Mrs. Bennet and the younger Miss Bennets," she asserted, playing idly with the ribbons on her bonnet. "I only hope they will like me."

Darcy smiled and said, "Mrs. Bennet will be overjoyed to meet you, and will surely compliment you on your gown and bonnet. In fact, I have no doubt she will shower you with compliments, so overcome will she be with your elegance. The young Miss Mary and Miss Catherine will be enchanted with you. As I have told you, Miss Mary is an accomplished musician and great reader, and Miss Catherine…"

He paused, realizing that all of his interactions with Elizabeth's second youngest sister had been while the girl followed the ill-conceived example of the youngest Miss Bennet. He hoped that without Mrs. Wickham's influence, the older girl would form her own opinions.

Shaking his head, he continued, "She is exuberant and fond of lively conversation."

Georgiana chewed her lip and observed, "Then I fear they shall both find me very lacking."

Her brother's eyes widened and he exclaimed, "Why ever would you think that?"

"You know I am not at ease in company," she declared, holding his gaze. "I do not converse easily with strangers."

Darcy's mind flashed to when he confessed just such a thing to Elizabeth months before and she had grinned mischievously at his declaration. 'How similar we are,' he thought, studying Georgiana. He chuckled as he recalled Elizabeth telling him he need only practice, but realizing Georgiana would surely mistake his laughter for his finding amusement in her discomfort, he pressed his hand to his mouth, but it was too late, for Georgiana's brow furrowed and her lips pressed together in annoyance.

"I am glad I can entertain you so," she said flatly, crossing her arms.

Forcing his smile away, he declared, "You only reminded me of something. I am sorry, dearest."

Georgiana huffed and turned her gaze back to the passing landscape. Determined to gain her forgiveness, Darcy leaned across to lay his hand on her forearm. He pressed it a little, urging her to turn her eyes back to him as he declared, "I promise they will be happy to receive you as their sister."

Her shoulders relaxed as she whispered, "Sister."

Darcy watched her expression turn pensive and a small smile return to her face. His throat tightened when he heard her breathe out the word a second time. "Yes; their sister," he said softly, grinning at the joy that brightened her countenance.

He knew that despite her contentment with the life they had carved out for themselves after their father's death, she had always longed for more. Like him, she wanted the voices of family to filter through the hallways of their home.

"I have always wanted a sister," she said. "And now I shall have so many of them!"

Settling back into his seat, Darcy smirked and quipped, "I am sorry you were cursed with having only me as a brother."

Georgiana's eyes widened and she quickly declared, "You are an ideal brother, as you well know. It is an honor to be your little sister."

He shook his head before noticing the red brick facade of Netherfield appear over the next hill. Georgiana saw his distraction and followed his gaze as the carriage turned through the estate's large iron gate.

"Is that Netherfield?" she asked excitedly.

"It is indeed," he answered. "And I see our host has anticipated us."

Darcy pointed to the grand marble stairs where he saw Bingley awaiting them. His friend waved and smiled enthusiastically as their driver guided their conveyance around the circle drive to stop before the entrance. Darcy watched Bingley jog quickly down the remaining stairs and he shook his head at his friend's boundless energy. One of Bingley's footmen stepped forward to open the door so that Darcy may descend, and when he did, Bingley arrived before him.

"Welcome back to Netherfield, my friend," he said, after dismissing the footman and extending his hand to guide Georgiana from the carriage. "And welcome to Hertfordshire, Miss Darcy."

She thanked him and curtseyed in greeting. "I am happy to finally be here," she declared.

Laying her arm atop his, Bingley led her up the stairs and into the foyer. As a maid helped Darcy and Georgiana off with their traveling clothes, Bingley instructed several footmen to see to the siblings' bags and that their rooms were readied.

Returning his attention to them, he declared, "We have been invited to dine at Longbourn this evening. When Mrs. Bennet discovered your coming a day early, she was quite insistent we join them for supper, and so we shall, if both of you feel equal to it."

Georgiana smiled, and looking toward her brother, she asked, "Oh, may we, Fitzwilliam?"

"You are not fatigued from our trip?" he asked, pleased to see that her earlier anxiety had vanished entirely.

Shaking her head, she owned that she needed only refresh herself. Bingley quickly called for a maid to see Georgiana to her room, and thanking him, she promised to rejoin them within the hour.

"You must be in great need of refreshment," Bingley observed, looking toward his friend after Georgiana's departure. "Shall we?"

Darcy nodded and followed after him. "I received your letter," he declared as they made their way toward the parlor. "Congratulations, my friend. You and Miss Bennet are very deserving of your happiness."

Bingley smiled broadly and said, "I am the luckiest of men. Jane is truly an angel and I am entirely unworthy of her forgiveness."

"You are too hard on yourself," Darcy interjected. "You were deceived."

Entering the brightly lit parlor, Bingley invited Darcy to take the chair beside his own near the window. As his friend straightened the tails of his jacket and settled himself in his seat, Bingley crossed the room to the sideboard to pour them each a tumbler of port.

"That is no excuse," he said, setting the decanter aside and lifting the glasses. "I shall always be ashamed of my weakness."

He returned to Darcy's side and handed him the refreshment before taking his own chair. "I am forever in your debt for revealing Caroline's deception," he continued, his light eyes growing solemn.

Darcy's features darkened at the mention of Miss Bingley, and forcing his voice steady, he asked, "And will she be joining you here soon?"

Bingley raised his chin and declared, "I suggested she enjoy the company of our cousins in Scarborough."

"You sent her to Scarborough?" Darcy asked, his dark brow rising in astonishment.

Chuckling, Bingley answered, "It is my hope that she will benefit from the very limited society there."

Darcy nodded and inquired, "Have you informed her of your engagement?"

"I have, and I assured her that I expect her company by June so that she might help with the arrangements," he professed. "And that if she should persist in her belief that I should not marry Jane, she will no longer be welcome in my company."

So surprised was he at the change in his friend, Darcy could only say, "Bravo."

Bingley colored at the praise and declared, "I should have done so long ago."

Darcy's mind turned to Elizabeth, and smiling, he recalled her words to him in October at Sir William Lucas' assembly. "Think only on the past as it gives you pleasure," he said softly, his heart quickening with the memory of her bright eyes and laughter that evening when they spoke.

'I loved her even then,' he thought, tapping his fingers thoughtfully.

"That is a pretty sentiment," Bingley asserted, sipping his port.

"It is not mine," Darcy admitted, setting his glass aside. "I had it from someone far more sensible than myself."

Bingley noticed his distraction, and smirking slightly, he asked, "And does that someone reside at Longbourn?"

Darcy blushed and shifted under his friend's gaze. Bingley chuckled at Darcy's discomfort and said, "Forgive me, old man; it is not often I am able to unsettle you. You must not be offended when I take the opportunity. I am to be your brother after all. What good is having a brother if you cannot make sport with him?"

Watching his friend's cheerful expression, Darcy could not help but smile as well. "I shall allow it on occasion then," he said flatly.

Bingley chuckled, and raising his glass to Darcy, he settled more comfortably into his seat. Darcy turned his eyes to the window to study the familiar landscape; his mind undoubtedly wandering to his intended, for Bingley noticed his wistfulness. He smiled, pleased to witness the serenity that had returned to Darcy's air. His gaze traced the line of Darcy's shoulder to his arm, and though without the sling, it still lay prone against his lean stomach. He watched with interest as Darcy slowly curled and uncurled his fingers several times.

Taking another sip of his port, Bingley inquired, "Is it still very painful?"

Darcy started from his reverie and his brow furrowed in confusion, for he was unaware his slight actions had drawn his friend's attention. Noticing the direction of Bingley's gaze, he declared, "It is healing."

Shaking his head at Darcy's stubbornness, Bingley pressed, "While I am happy to hear it, that does not answer my question."

Darcy pressed his lips together, and turned his wrist slowly so that his palm lay open. "If my answer does not satisfy, will you tell Georgiana of it?" he asked, his dark eyes still riveted on his hand.

"You know me better than that, Darcy," Bingley answered. "I am no idle gossip."

A small smirk appeared on Darcy's countenance as he observed, "Now it is you who is not answering the question, Charles."

Bingley set his glass aside, and leaning forward in his seat, he waited for his friend to turn to him. When he did, Bingley held his serious gaze and declared, "You have my word I will say nothing."

This must have satisfied Darcy, for he nodded and raised his hand before him, inspecting it as he spoke. "I wrote you that Mr. Byatt approved of my traveling, but I did not tell you of the reluctance that accompanied his approval," he said evenly.

"Does he think you still in danger of infection?" Bingley asked, his voice revealing his worry.

"No, no; the danger of that is long past," Darcy asserted. "He merely fears I will carry my efforts to recover too far, and do myself harm."

"Because he knows your fingers still pain you," Bingley declared.

Darcy nodded and continued, "And my shoulder is easily strained. Indeed, putting on my waistcoat and jacket is still a trial."

He held his hand out to his friend, and though he tried to hold it steady, it quaked. Bingley noticed the slight movement and began, "Darcy, you must…"

"Do not say I must rest!" Darcy cried, rising from his seat. "That is all I have heard from everyone for these last weeks. Georgiana, Richard, my aunt and uncle, Mr. Byatt; all would have me locked in my home forever!"

Before a bewildered Bingley could speak, Darcy began pacing the length of the room as he continued, "I cannot rest anymore! How can I improve if I do not try? I want to write. I want to ride. I want to sit beside Elizabeth at the pianoforte and play. For God's sake, I want to be able to clasp her hand in mine and not feel as if a thousand knives are piercing my arm!"

He halted in the middle of the floor, his breath coming in short gasps and his left hand moving to his forehead. Bingley studied him and reflected that the man before him did not deserve to suffer in such a way. Rising from his seat, he moved slowly to Darcy's side.

"I was merely going to counsel patience," he said slowly. "Not rest."

Despite his frustration, and the gravity of their discussion, Darcy's mouth turned up in a small smile. His color heightened and he managed a small, "Oh."

Bingley laid his hand on Darcy's uninjured shoulder and asserted, "I am apt to agree with Mr. Byatt in one respect; you must not tax yourself so much so that you are reinjured. For all our sakes, begin slowly."

His dark brow arching, Darcy raised his head and asked, "All your sakes?"

"As your soon-to-be brother and member of your family, I believe I speak for us all when I say we cannot endure your being hurt again," Bingley declared. "You are far too important to us."

Darcy weighed his friend's words, branding the import of them in his memory. As much as he wished it, he could not heal himself in a single day, or perhaps even in a matter of weeks. He knew that he would heal as certainly as he knew that the means of his beginning to heal waited for him not five miles away. He felt his chest tighten with that knowledge, and after some silence, he managed a small nod.

Bingley was pleased to see his friend accepting his words, and pressing his shoulder once more, he said lightly, "Since beating you mercilessly at billiards would hardly be fair as you are an invalid, what say you to having another glass of port?"

Smirking at Bingley's teasing, Darcy said, "I see you are developing Hurst's fondness for port in the afternoon."

"Not at all I assure you," Bingley answered, returning to his seat. "I merely recognize the benefit of it when one is preparing oneself."

"And what is it we are preparing for?" Darcy asked, studying his host.

Pouring himself and Darcy a generous amount of the claret liquid, he answered, "Why, we drink so that we may better appreciate our new mother's conversation."

Darcy could not help but laugh heartily at the mischievous twinkle in Bingley's eyes and his broad smile. He swiftly assented to the plan, and even observed that a third glass may be necessary, for there was much of Mrs. Bennet's conversation to be had.

When the hour of supper approached, Elizabeth sat before her vanity with Sarah carefully turning and braiding tendrils of her dark hair and sweeping it up atop her head. A few shorter curls hung about her face and neck, and Sarah joked that like Elizabeth, they refused to remain still.

Elizabeth could not help but smile at the young maid's joke and declared, "It seems I have been preening for hours. My apologies, but remaining still has grown quite tiresome."

Her mind turned to her mother's earlier exclamations as she followed her about the house. In the morning, when Elizabeth had attempted to venture out for a walk about the garden, Mrs. Bennet would hear none of it, fearing Elizabeth would develop a red nose from the slight breeze. When she retreated to her father's library so that he may read out some verse to her, Mrs. Bennet burst through the door and demanded Elizabeth remove herself from the dusty room lest she should suffer from a headache. Quite put out by her mother's worries and demands, Elizabeth retreated to the parlor in the hope of practicing the pianoforte, for she and Mary had received a new piece from their Aunt Gardiner. Indeed, what harm could there be in applying oneself to a useful activity and one that would surely entertain their dinner guests? Yet, almost as soon as Elizabeth's fingers struck the first chords, she heard the door bang open and her mother's shrill voice asserting that she would surely tire her fingers.

"You wish to play for Mr. Darcy tonight, do you not?" Mrs. Bennet had asked, urging Elizabeth up from the bench.

"I have little inclination to do so now, madam," Elizabeth had answered flatly before shooing her mother's insistent hands away and rising from the seat on her own.

She quickly fled Mrs. Bennet's presence and sought refuge in the kitchen, taking a comfortable chair near the fire and listening to Hill and Sarah's amusing stories as they bustled about the room readying the pheasants, vegetables, and puddings for the night's festivities. So she remained, and quite happily so, until her mother discovered her two hours before. After chastising her for subjecting her hair to the balmy heat of the kitchen and crying at what Mr. Darcy would think should he have seen her there, Mrs. Bennet took Elizabeth's arm and led her above stairs, where she was bathed and scrubbed, her hair combed and freed of any wayward knots, and her gown selected and pressed. Only when the hour grew late did Mrs. Bennet abandon her to see to her own preparations, and for her absence, Elizabeth was eternally grateful. Now, she sat quite content in Sarah's company as the younger girl's movements lulled her into a peaceful repose. Sarah smiled and watched her young mistress' countenance in the mirror, pleased to see such joy radiating from her. Sliding the final pin in place, Sarah stepped back to admire her handiwork.

"There," she breathed. "Now it just needs some adornments."

She stepped forward to assess the baubles that lay across the vanity. Her eyes studied the small white flowers, blue and green ribbons of varying sizes and shades, and small pearl combs that belonged to the eldest Miss Bennet. Ticking her tongue in indecision, she glanced toward the bed. Mrs. Bennet had insisted Elizabeth have at least three new gowns for the many dinners she was sure would precede her daughter's nuptials, and though Elizabeth argued valiantly that such trouble was not in the least bit necessary, Mrs. Bennet had prevailed, and the evidence of her victory lay across the coverlet. On this evening, Elizabeth was to wear a gown of pale green, the sleeves of which reached her elbows and the skirt trailed behind her in a modest, but pleasing way. Of the three gowns that had been thrust upon her, Elizabeth was most pleased with this one, for she felt the dressmaker achieved what she had asked; to merely create a gown that did not feel foreign to her. A small amount of embroidery adorned the edges of the sleeves and bodice, but beyond that, the beauty of the gown lay in its simplicity. Returning her attention to her mistress, Sarah decided that she would not ruin the wearer of the gown with too many ornaments. Plucking the thinnest ribbon from among the collection, the color of which was a few shades darker than the gown, Sarah set to work. After some minutes, the ribbon lay woven among Elizabeth's dark curls, and Sarah felt pleased with its effect. Her mistress' bright eyes were rendered all the more verdant, and Sarah had no doubt they would appear even more so when Elizabeth wore the dress. She watched Elizabeth raise gentle fingers to the tendrils to feel their shape.

"Oh, Sarah; it is just what I would have wished for," she said finally.

Pleased with such praise, but realizing they had little time before the arrival of the Netherfield party, Sarah bid her stand so that she might help her on with her gown. When she worked the final button into place at Elizabeth's back, Sarah declared, "If you do not mind me saying, miss, I believe you will render Mr. Darcy quite speechless."

Elizabeth felt her cheeks flush, and shaking her head, she turned her face so that Sarah would not see her embarrassment. In an attempt to distract herself from the flutter in her chest, Elizabeth rose from her seat and felt for the carved edge of her trunk. Feeling along its top, her fingers encountered the soft material of her new slippers.

"You must not say such things, Sarah," she said lightly to hide her blush. "They are entirely undeserved."

Sarah gathered up Elizabeth's discarded shift and gown and made her way to the door, but before she slipped into the hallway, she took in Elizabeth's appearance once more. She studied the brightness of her countenance, and the elegant line of her neck and decided that she looked every bit the mistress of a great estate and wife of a great man.

Smiling, she declared, "I assure you that any compliment you receive this evening is entirely deserved."

With that, she departed, leaving Elizabeth to blush at her praise. Elizabeth listened to Sarah's steps recede down the hallway, and releasing a sigh, she slipped her feet into the delicately embroidered slippers.

"I shall be quite difficult to live with if Sarah persists," she quipped as she straightened.

She allowed her fingers to travel over the small flourishes on her sleeves and skirt. A smile lit her features and she began to turn, enjoying the feeling of the fabric as it whirled about her ankles.

"You'll ruin all Sarah's hard work if you continue on like that," Jane declared from her place near the door.

Elizabeth's sharp intake of breath as she staggered to a halt told Jane she had been too distracted to notice her entrance. She smiled softly, taking in her sister's appearance and crossing the distance to Elizabeth's side.

"I have brought you my beaded necklace. I thought it would look quite pretty against the color of your gown," she said.

She moved aside the few curls at Elizabeth's neck and secured the necklace at Elizabeth's throat. Elizabeth smiled and touched the adornment. "Thank you, Jane, but did you not wish to wear it? It is one of your favorites," she asserted.

"Not at all," Jane answered. "Besides, green is your color this evening, and it suits you far better than me."

Turning in a small circle, Elizabeth asked, "Do you think it will please him?"

"I have never seen you look prettier," Jane said. "Will you accompany me down?"

Elizabeth nodded and stepped toward her, but paused. She bit her lip and thought again on her reunion with Darcy and all he had done for their family. She had been unable to find sleep the previous night, her mind turning between her joy at seeing him again and her apprehension over what she would say to him if they found themselves alone. By the time the sun broke over the horizon in the morning, she determined she must thank him, regardless of the discomfort it would cause. She knew he would never want her to feel beholden to him for what he had done, but she wished him to at least know she was aware of his goodness. She had done as her father had asked, and not spoken a word of it to anyone, not even Jane, but now as the hour of her meeting with Darcy approached, she felt more than ever that she needed counsel. Jane must have noticed her unease, for she felt her fingers wrap securely around her own.

"What is it that troubles you, dearest? I assure you that you look quite beautiful," Jane hurried to declare.

Elizabeth smiled at her sister's worry and professed, "I assure you my vanity is quite satisfied. It is not my appearance that concerns me."

"What then?" Jane asked.

She startled when she noticed Elizabeth's eyes begin to shine with unshed tears. "Lizzy, what is it?" she pressed, tightening her hold on Elizabeth's hands. "Has something happened?"

"Oh, Jane," Elizabeth whispered. "I do not know how I shall meet with him."

"With Mr. Darcy?" she asked, her eyes wide with astonishment. "But you were so happy with the news of his coming early."

Sliding her fingers from Jane's, she began to pace. "Of course I am happy he has come," she said, wringing her hands. "But after what he has done for us all…"

"What he has done for us?" Jane repeated, watching Elizabeth's movements in wonder.

Elizabeth halted, and bidding Jane to sit, she declared, "I have much to tell."

Jane listened in wonder as Elizabeth revealed all their father had told her. She shuddered when Elizabeth told her of the amount Darcy had bestowed on Wickham. When Elizabeth finished her tale, she sank down beside Jane on the bed. Jane remained silent, for she was uncertain what words could bring comfort her sister. She could only reach for Elizabeth's hand and hold it between her own.

"He has done us such a service," Jane said quietly after some moments.

"He has," Elizabeth breathed. "And I am not to even know of it. I wish to thank him though."

Jane turned fully to Elizabeth and declared, "If it will give you peace, then that is what you must do."

Elizabeth remained uncertain, and noticing her reluctance, Jane stood and pulled her sister to her feet. Knowing where Elizabeth's mind had turned, she retained her hold on her hands and asserted, "He will not be angry with our father for telling you of it. I believe he will understand why our Papa felt it necessary. I have no doubt you questioned Papa until he relented."

Elizabeth did not miss the amusement in Jane's voice, and sighing, owned that she did indeed beg her father to share the whole business with her. Jane nodded knowingly and continued, "Speak with Mr. Darcy about it. I believe you two should begin your lives together with no secrets."

"I hope I may find a moment to speak with him," Elizabeth asserted.

"That may be difficult this evening, as our mother has invited the Lucases to dine as well. We shall be a rather large party," Jane observed.

Elizabeth's lips pursed in dissatisfaction and she said flatly, "Our mother wants nothing more than to boast of her success at marrying us off."

Jane's gentle nature did not allow her to share Elizabeth's open distaste of their mother's scheming and she smiled serenely. "We shall be a very merry party," she declared. "Let us go and see how Hill is faring with the preparations."

Elizabeth reluctantly wound her arm about Jane's and walked with her into the hallway. When they reached the stairs, their mother's strident cries assailed their ears and they cringed to hear her fretting below about the state of the silver and that the candles in the parlor were not bright enough.

"Very merry indeed," Elizabeth whispered, shaking her head.

Jane laughed lightly, and patting Elizabeth's hand, they began their descent.

Darcy played idly with the cuff buttons of his fine evening jacket as his eyes scanned the darkening landscape. His breathing heightened when he noted their conveyance turned onto the lane that would take them to Longbourn, and craning his neck, he noted that even from his distance, he could make out the brightly lit torches at the end of the drive. He drew a long breath and settled back in his seat, feeling that the minutes until he saw Elizabeth would feel interminable.

When he glanced at his pocket watch to ascertain if they would arrive at their appointed hour, he heard Bingley chuckle from his place across from him. Raising his gaze and snapping the timepiece shut, Darcy inquired, "And what is it that amuses you so?"

"What an anxious suitor Miss Elizabeth has," Bingley declared, enjoying the blush that spread across Darcy's cheeks. "Would you not agree, Miss Darcy? Have you ever seen your brother, a man renowned for his equanimity, so restless?"

"I would not be anxious at all if you did not take an hour to choose a waistcoat you thought would satisfy Miss Jane Bennet," Darcy answered flatly.

Georgiana smiled at the gentlemen and declared, "Now, now; it is only natural you should both feel excited by the prospect of meeting with your intendeds."

Looking toward her brother and pressing his hand, she added, "Most especially you, given your long separation from her."

Darcy took no comfort from this, for thinking on the weeks he had spent away from Elizabeth only served to remind him of the cause of it. Though an image of Wickham's smirking countenance came to his mind, he pushed it back and forced a smile to his face before retuning his gaze to the window.

'Surely she must place some of the blame at my door,' he thought sadly. 'I could have done more to expose Wickham long ago.'

He shook his head, and noting that they came upon the entrance to Longbourn's drive, he straightened in his seat and his heart suddenly beat wildly. He had dreamed of his reunion with Elizabeth, but feared the happiness of it would be tempered by the shadow of her sister's nuptials. He could not bear to see disappointment on her lovely features.

'You are not to blame,' she had said the night he departed from Longbourn.

Her voice was fervent then, and closing his eyes, he prayed she still felt the same. When he opened them, he saw one of the Bennets' servants step outside to greet them.

"And here we are," Bingley asserted as he looked pointedly at Darcy. "With time to spare, I might add."

Darcy did not have the opportunity to reply, for the carriage came to a halt and the door swung open. Bingley thanked his driver and stepped down from the conveyance. Raising his hand, he invited Georgiana to follow and guided her down. The two moved up the few steps to Longbourn's entrance, and only then did Darcy shake himself from his reverie. He descended without his usual grace, for his eyes studied the glowing windows of the house for a glimpse of his beloved. After steadying himself, he stood to his full height and moved to smooth his waistcoat. With a final sigh, he followed his friend and sister, anxious to be near Elizabeth.

They were met in the foyer by a young maid, who deftly relieved them of their hats and gloves. With her task complete, she beckoned them to follow her to the parlor where the party had gathered. Darcy offered his arm to Georgiana and moved after Bingley into the brightly lit room. He heard the mix of voices filtering toward them, and realizing that more than just the family had gathered, he groaned inwardly, for he knew Georgiana, and even he, would be overwhelmed by the gathering. He cradled her arm a little closer to reassure her and stepped into the room. The three newcomers were immediately acknowledged, and Mrs. Bennet glided toward them with all the grace of a proper hostess.

"Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy," she said as she curtsied. "You are most welcome to our little party this evening. As you see, we seek to properly welcome you both back to the neighborhood."

The gentlemen bowed and were thankful when Mr. Bennet's greeting was for more sedate. After shaking hands, Darcy stepped aside and reintroduced Georgiana to Mr. Bennet. She curtsied gracefully and smiled.

"A pleasure to see you again, my dear," Mr. Bennet declared before introducing Mrs. Bennet to her.

The older woman curtsied and said, "Welcome to our home, Miss Darcy."

She quickly ushered the young girl farther into the room to see her introduced to the Lucases and Philipses. Darcy watched their exchanges anxiously for he feared Georgiana would be made uncomfortable by the attention, but he noted that she answered their questions quietly. Though the light blush of her countenance belied her discomfort, she interacted valiantly, and with all the charm you would expect of her station. Comforted by this, he turned his eyes to the room to seek out Elizabeth's form, and found her not far from them, where she conversed softly with her eldest sister. He could tell that she listened carefully to the rest of the conversations in the room, and he hoped she listened for his voice. His dark gaze studied her and he found himself quite breathless as he took in her beauty. In the golden glow of the many candles that lit the room, she appeared ethereal in her gown of pale green. Her eyes and hair glowed brightly, making her appear almost fairy-like, and when her laughter filtered toward him, Darcy felt humbled that one so beautiful could love him.

Bingley looked toward his friend and noted that he was transfixed. Following his gaze, he was unsurprised to see Elizabeth and elated to see she stood with Jane. Straightening his cravat, he said, "I see you have found our intendeds."

Bingley moved off toward the sisters, and with his eyes still riveted on Elizabeth, Darcy crossed the room as well. Meanwhile, Jane leaned toward her sister to tell her of the gentlemen's approach, but Elizabeth was aware of it the moment she heard the confident stride she had come to know so well. She turned her face to the floorboards in an effort to conceal her heightened color and listened as Bingley greeted her with his usual alacrity, before turning his attention to Jane.

Darcy watched Bingley take Jane's hand and place a light kiss against her knuckles. Glancing about the room, he noticed that almost all the occupants, save Mr. Bennet, Mr. Philips, and Sir William Lucas, for they had returned to their discussion, were observing the couple. He wished to greet Elizabeth in such a way, but he blushed at the thought of the attention it would draw. At that moment, he caught Georgiana's eye, and realized she must have perceived his anxiety. Seeking to give him comfort, she nodded, silently encouraging him to do as he wished and not give credence to the thoughts of others. He returned his gaze to Elizabeth to see her turned toward him expectantly, no doubt waiting for him to speak. Drawing a breath, he instead stepped forward.

Elizabeth was surprised to feel the long fingers of his left hand wind about her own. She knew she must have blushed, for she felt a rush of heat spread over her countenance. She felt him lift her hand and brush his lips slowly across her knuckles. She relished the feeling of his warmth so near to her and her mind filled with the memory of his lips on hers. So long she had anticipated the sensation of him beside her, and she ached when he released her hand and stepped back.

"I hope you are well, Miss Elizabeth," he declared, willing his voice steady.

She smiled nervously before answering, "I am."

"I am glad to hear it," he replied.

He immediately wished he might add that he was also glad to be in her presence, but he knew he could not with so many eyes observing him. They fell silent then, each wishing desperately to speak their hearts and frustrated they knew not how to begin. Bingley and Jane soon moved off to visit with the younger girls, and Darcy's heart leapt at the relative privacy he was suddenly granted. Desperate to take advantage of it, he stepped to Elizabeth's side.

Elizabeth perceived his movement and asked, "And are you well, sir?"

Darcy had no doubt as to where her mind had turned, and glancing at his arm and flexing the slightly swollen fingers, he sighed. "I am better now that I am near you," he declared.

He had not even thought of the words as they tumbled from his mouth, but he knew the truth in them; he had always felt better in her presence. At Sir William's assembly, the Netherfield ball, and the orchestra, his anxiety had lessened in the wake of her serenity and wit. After the confrontation with his aunt, his temper and resentment had ebbed with her comforting words and touch. Now, after the weeks of separation and the pain both had endured during it, he felt at peace after only a few moments by her side. He watched as her color rose, and realized how much he missed having the opportunity to bring a blush to her cheeks.

Smiling, he observed, "May I say that you look…"

He paused, for he realized no word seemed to suffice for the brightness of her appearance on this night. Elizabeth waited for him to continue, but when he did not, her brow quirked in wonder as she asked, "Mr. Darcy?"

Darcy drew himself from his reverie and looked about until he was satisfied they were out of the hearing of others, he leaned near her and said, "Forgive me, Elizabeth; I am a poor orator. I find I cannot express how radiant you are this evening or how much I have missed your company."

Elizabeth fought the tremble she felt when he said her name, and said, "You lie, sir."

Darcy started at so unexpected a reply, and raised his gaze to study her. Had he known her less, he may have been offended, for he would have missed the happy glint in her eyes.

He smiled openly and inquired, "How have I lied? Pray, tell me so that I might remedy it. I would not wish to offend one as lovely as you."

Elizabeth was pleased to hear the humor in his voice, and allowing her smile to widen, she said, "You say you are a poor orator, but that was the prettiest speech I have ever heard."

Darcy wished to flatter her more, but noticed his sister came toward them with Miss Catherine beside her while Miss Mary Bennet and Miss Maria Lucas had moved to the pianoforte to entertain the company. Realizing his time with Elizabeth waned, and not knowing when they would be alone again, he leaned toward her ear.

"Then you will forgive my brevity when I say," he began, and dropping his voice to a whisper, added, "I love you."

Elizabeth felt the heat rush to her cheeks as his breath lightly traced her ear. She heard him step back to a more proper distance and fought to slow her beating heart, for she felt sure it could be perceived by the entire room. She had not heard those words since his departure, and the sureness and feeling with which he spoke them made them all the more precious. She wished nothing more than to throw herself into his arms and tell him of her love for him, but propriety and the approach of the others prevented it. She listened to the light clicking of heels and Georgiana's soft greeting.

Willing her voice steady, she reached toward her new friend and soon-to-be sister and said, "I am very glad you have come to Hertfordshire, Georgiana."

Georgiana clasped Elizabeth's hands and asserted, "I am happy to be here after all I have been told of it. Your sister has been telling me of the shops at Meryton and that there are some lovely walks."

Catherine beamed beside her new friend and declared, "I thought Miss Darcy may like to see them. Would it not be wonderful to walk to Meryton tomorrow? The weather has been so mild."

Darcy studied the young woman before him and reflected that after so short a time without her youngest sister, she had already matured; her character and conversation, though no less enthusiastic, were now tempered and proper. Looking back to his sister, he saw she waited for his approval of the scheme, biting her lip in nervous anticipation.

"Would you like to see more of the countryside, Georgiana?" he asked, happy to see his sister with a new friend.

Georgiana nodded and declared, "I would so enjoy it."

Darcy smiled and said, "Then it is settled; you two shall have your outing. I, too, find myself in great need of fresh air; I spent too many weeks locked in my house because my sister wished it so."

Georgiana blushed and asserted, "Then you must join us, and you as well, Elizabeth."

"Oh, yes! Do join us, Lizzy, for you have not truly walked out in ages," Catherine cried. "With the weather so fair, surely our father must approve."

Elizabeth smiled at the younger girls' enthusiasm and answered, "I should like that very much and I believe he will."

With the pair's assent, the younger girls grinned, and determining that they should ask Jane and Bingley as well, they moved away to seek them out. Darcy watched them go, shaking his head at the very great change in his sister after so short and acquaintance with Elizabeth and her family. The shadow of her sadness was all but lifted, and he was grateful to see her sweet smile again. Before he could make the observation to Elizabeth, Mrs. Bennet clapped her hands and invited her guests to the dining room. As she and Mr. Bennet preceded the Philipses and Lucases into the hallway, she could be heard proudly describing the quality of the birds Hill had prepared.

"I think you will all be very pleased!" she exclaimed. "Indeed, I believe you would be hard-pressed to find a finer meal, even from the kitchens at Netherfield, Mr. Bingley!"

Bingley chuckled, and raising his arm to Jane, he declared, "I am sure you are right, madam."

He and Jane shared a look of amusement before moving after the older couples. The younger girls followed after them, leaving Darcy and Elizabeth behind. Darcy turned his dark eyes to Elizabeth and noticed she had pressed a hand to her forehead.

His brow falling in worry, he took her other hand and asked, "Are you unwell?"

Shaking her head, Elizabeth owned, "Merely exhausted from my mother's enthusiasm over tonight's festivities. There has been no rest at Longbourn since she heard of your early arrival."

A smile returned to Darcy's features and he said, "I am glad to hear my arrival made your mother happy, but what are your thoughts on it?"

The easy smile that returned to her face was enough of an answer. Darcy took her hand in his and guided it to the elbow of his left arm. Elizabeth focused on the warmth and strength of his arm beneath her fingers.

She laid her other hand atop it and declared softly, "I am very happy you are come."

Darcy's gaze traced her features, enjoying the curve of her lips and wishing desperately to press his own to them. He almost gave in to the temptation, leaning closer to her, but when laughter filtered down the hallway toward them, he willed himself to pull away.

"I know your father's feelings when we do not arrive with the rest of the party," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "I have no desire to incur his ire so soon after my arrival or have him think less of me."

"He would never feel so," she asserted, her mind turning again to all Darcy had done for her family. "How could he?"

Darcy's brow knitted, for he thought he heard a trace of sadness in her tone. He would have questioned it, but he felt Elizabeth begin to step forward, leading him into the hallway. He continued to watch her, and was thankful to see a small smile return to her features as they neared the dining room.

"Now, my mother on the other hand will not be so forgiving of me if the pheasant grows cold in our absence," she declared.

He was prevented from answering her, for as they stepped into the room, Mrs. Bennet quickly gestured to their seats. After escorting Elizabeth to her place, he was pleased to discover his own seat beside her. Lowering himself onto the chair, he found himself immediately distracted by her presence. Her elbow was so close to his, and he could feel the warmth of her being seeping through the material of his jacket. The light scent of rose water washed over him as it so often did when he was in her company, and he closed his eyes to quiet his heartbeat. Opening his eyes, he fixed them on his plate, however sorely he was tempted to look toward Elizabeth. He felt a hand touch his arm lightly, and startling from his reverie, he looked to his right to find his sister studying him. He blushed at having his distraction discovered, and in an attempt to divert her attention, he inquired how she fared. He was pleased to see her eyes bright and content, and patting her hand, he settled back in his seat. As the meal was served, he took the opportunity to study the faces of the rest of the company, owning that he never would have imagined himself among them a year ago.

He watched Mr. Philips, who he found to be a well-informed and steady gentleman, explain the finer points of whist to Sir William, while Sir William argued valiantly that hearts was the better game. Mr. Bennet asserted an opinion he had shared with Darcy quite early in their acquaintance; that cards required far too much talking for his taste.

Darcy chuckled, his gaze moving to study the ever-curious Mrs. Bennet as she told Lady Lucas of Elizabeth's refusal to send to Town for any of her wedding clothes or new gowns.

"And so, the future Mrs. Darcy will be seen in the plainest of fashions as that is what she has insisted upon," she finished with a huff.

Darcy pressed his napkin to his lips to hide his smile, but looking toward Elizabeth, his humor immediately dissipated, for he saw she blushed, having heard her mother's declaration. He wished to comfort her, and glancing around, he was thankful to see their nearest companions distracted. He noticed that she twisted her napkin in her lap, and he moved his hand to cover hers. He felt her still as he pressed her fingers.

Leaning toward her, he whispered, "You are entirely breathtaking."

His statement did nothing to abate the blush on her cheeks, but her fingers relaxed beneath his touch and a small smile lightened her countenance. He moved his thumb over her knuckles before straightening in his seat. The remainder of the evening passed pleasantly, though Darcy and Elizabeth found little opportunity to speak again. He was much engaged with the gentlemen while Elizabeth enjoyed Georgiana's company, learning more of her favorite pieces of music and asking her to describe her favorite rooms of Pemberley.

When the hour grew late, their guests began to take their leave until only the Netherfield party remained. After saying their farewells, Mrs. Bennet urged Elizabeth and Jane to escort them into the foyer.

"I do not know when I had so enjoyable an evening," Bingley observed as he retrieved his hat and gloves. "And I look forward to our outing tomorrow. What a merry party we shall be!"

Elizabeth smiled at his enthusiasm and declared, "I do not know how merry you will think us when Kitty insists we visit every shop in Meryton."

Georgiana chuckled as she drew her shawl about her shoulders and said, "I certainly look forward to that even if Mr. Bingley and my brother do not."

She, Bingley, and Jane moved off toward the entrance, leaving Darcy by Elizabeth's side. His dark eyes watched them a moment before moving to Elizabeth's countenance. He tucked his hat beneath his arm and confessed, "My sister knows me too well, for I certainly do not anticipate visiting the shops with the same alacrity she does."

Grinning, she answered, "I confess I do not either."

What remained unsaid was that both of them looked forward to simply being in the other's company. Noting that the others conversed near the door, Darcy smiled. He allowed his fingers to find Elizabeth's and he raised her hand between them. "Nonetheless," he began, drawing her hand to his chest. "I look forward to it."

Elizabeth felt the thrum of his heart beneath her fingers and declared, "Until tomorrow then."

"Until tomorrow," he whispered.

He raised her hand and bent his head to place a gentle kiss against its back. Reluctantly, he released her fingers and stepped back. Elizabeth listened to his footsteps move away and to his even voice wishing her sister a good evening. She heard them move out onto the drive, and as they entered the conveyance, she heard Jane's gentle step moving back to her.

Jane wound her arm about Elizabeth's and declared, "I am disposed to agree with Mr. Bingley; it has been a very pleasant evening."

Recalling the feeling of Darcy's lips upon her fingers, and his gentle touch upon her hand at supper, Elizabeth smiled. "It has indeed," she said, listening to the gravel crunch beneath the carriage's wheels as it pulled away.