Beginning, Section II, Next Section
Elizabeth stared down at the tiny buildings, small beacons in the fluffy darkness of the night. The soft whirl of the engines was comforting and she was exhausted, but sleep would not come. Jane, I am coming. Her first plane ride and it just had to be in the William's private plane. She sighed sitting up straighter in her seat at the thought. This was a BIG mistake, she told herself for the twentieth time.
She glanced over at Marcus Gardiner. He was asleep and looking very much like the angel he was. Gold hair curling around the nape of his neck, blue eyes closed under gold lashes, a strong chin and perfect nose. She looked at him and again thought there must be something wrong with her. He was beautiful inside and out. Fun and loving. Gentle and giving. Yet, somehow her heart was a resolute hold out against Marcus. She tore her gaze out to the window again and thought over the events since she had left for Christmas Break a week and half earlier.
After finals, she had met Jane at the Pub for a little Pre-Christmas celebration. Even though they had promised not to exchange gifts, Elizabeth presented her roommate with a leather planner. It was a perfect gift since she was forever missing appointments and forgetting numbers. She laughed and handed Elizabeth an unwrapped box from Elaine's. "I saw it when I was shopping today and I thought of you. You have to take it."
Elizabeth opened the box and held up the green silk item. She wrinkled her nose. "I don't think it will keep me very warm..."
"Warm?" Jane laughed, "Silly, when are you going to learn that an evening gown isn't meant to keep you warm....."
"You wear that in public?" Jane laughed at Elizabeth's shock. "So, what are your big Christmas plans, Jane?" Elizabeth asked changing the subject.
"I'm going to Boston to visit Morgan for a couple of days. She is so excited about the wedding in June-----don't forget we are going to have to be fitted for our dresses over Spring Break."
"I just hope she doesn't aim the bouquet at one of us like she keeps threatening. Can you imagine if I managed to catch the thing? My mom----" Elizabeth shuddered, rolling her eyes "I would know no peace."
"Speaking of no peace. After a few days in Boston, I'm going to Pemberley in Connecticut. Mom is bringing her new boyfriend so Anne is going to have a field day..."
"Anne?"
"My Aunt....Darcy's mom," Jane explained as she nibbled on her salad. "You know we go there every Christmas. And every year, mom and Anne bicker. They can never seem to get along....and it is only getting worse with the years." Elizabeth saw Jane's frown and could not help thinking to herself. Like mother, like son.
The last week of finals passed quickly for each. Jane left for Boston straight from Cincinnati and Elizabeth drove back to Kentucky. It was shaping up to be another in a long string of comfortable, peaceful Bennet Christmases when early on Christmas Day the phone woke Elizabeth. She looked at the alarm clock in disbelief. Five-thirty. Who woke up this early even on Christmas? She fumbled for the phone before it could ring again and wake her parents. Half asleep, she barely recognized Jane's frantic voice.
"She...she...she married him."
"Married?" She sat up hearing the distress in her best friend's voice. "Morgan eloped?"
"NO..."Jane's voice cracked. "Lola.....she married Ivan the terrible." It was too early for this, Lizzy thought bitterly. She felt anger at Jane's mother shoot through her. "That's not the worst of it!" Jane was hiccuping, "She's not coming to Pemberley. ....she got into a huge fight with Anne on the phone so now she is going to spend the holiday with her new husband in Pennsylvania. Marcus and I are up in Connecticut...." Elizabeth hated Lola ----whatever her name was right now. Jane finally calmed herself enough to ask, "So, how are you?"
Elizabeth smiled at Jane's thoughtfulness. "Jane, I wish I could be there with you right now......." Jane cut in, "Really, Lizzy? You really wish you could be here with me?" Elizabeth wrapped the phone cord around one finger, "Really, Jane."
"So, how is work?" Jane's voice was still high pitched but she was gaining control of it. "Work is work. Speaking of which, I have to get ready soon..."
"You're working today!"
"Jane..." Elizabeth rubbed her temple. "There are a lot of people with kids..."
"I'll bet that you have worked every day since you got home..." Jane frowned into the silent receiver. "You work too hard, Lizzy! You need a vacation..."
"I'm on vacation." She reminded, but heard Jane sigh loudly. "If it makes you feel better, Paul refused to put me on the schedule for the rest of my break........Hey...Why don't you come back here and stay with us for New Years? We could have a lot of fun!"
"I can't go home...." Jane started crying again, "I can't bear being here either.........Anne is so horrible about Lola." They talked a few minutes more, then Elizabeth was out the door facing yet another day at the nursing home.
It was well after eight before Elizabeth saw her house again on Christmas Day. Holidays at the home were especially hard. It was bittersweet watching the patients with their families but even worse, seeing those who had no visitors. On top of the physical demands of such an unusual day, the staff tried to "make jolly" for those special patients. After twelve hours, her feet were sore and her heart was heavy. Elizabeth offered little more than a "hello" before starting up to her room. Shower. Sleep. Her mind plodded on each step. When she became a doctor, she was going to remember this exhaustion of body and mind. She hoped she would never forget the way it felt to change soiled sheets and never forget the strain of moving bodies that could no longer shift themselves. She was going to show the staff the appreciation they deserved. Shower. Sleep. She couldn't wait to climb into her comfortable bed.
"Lizzy, look who is here." Her mom's voice stopped her on the stairs. Inwardly, Elizabeth groaned. She mentally checked off each of the eligible bachelors in the area. Nope, no one she would want to see, she ruefully thought and started up the stairs again. "Mom, you will have to make my apologies. "
"Now, Lizzy, I am surprised at you." She froze at the sound of the familiar masculine voice. She instantly forgot the depression, forgot the fatigue in her bones, forgot the shower as she launched herself into his arms, "Marcus! I have missed you so much!" Marcus pulled her into a tight hug. After a few minutes, she pulled back from him wrinkling her nose. "I probably smell..."
"Nah!" He saw the bags under her eyes and he did not hesitate to voice his concern. "You're working too hard."
"Geez, now you sound like Jane..."
Fanny excused herself to make some phone calls. "Oh, brother," she said laughing, "she is going to have the whole town think we are ..." She caught herself and changed the subject, "What are you doing here? I thought you were in Connecticut...." Elizabeth smiled wildly and looked around, "Did Jane come with you?"
"No," Marcus smiled, "I'm actually here to take you back to her in Connecticut."
"Funny! You really had me going there for a minute."
"I'm not kidding." She checked his face. He wasn't. "Uncle George asked Jane what she wanted most for Christmas and she said you. So, he flew me down here with instructions I am not to return without you."
"I can't just drop everything and go to Connecticut..."
"Why not?" Marcus asked seriously, "Jane said Paul has given you a pardon from the nursing home. Your mom and dad said it was fine with them if Jane needs you....." She bite her lip and he smiled. "Wait until you see all the people who come to Pemberley on New Years....there are all kinds of famous people from the medical field..." Still, she did not look convinced, so he tried a different line of attack. "Lizzy, Jane needs you."
Jane needed her. Elizabeth told herself as she showed and changed. Maybe, he wouldn't even be there. Maybe, he was with Caroline for the holidays. She threw in her jeans, sweats, under things, shoes in a suitcase. Never had her wardrobe seemed so lacking. She shook her head and pulled out the garment bag holding her Christmas present from Jane. Well, this certainly came in handy.
After a quick hug and promise to call and tell them "everything, " Elizabeth left her parents in the living room. Ben watched the waiting car pull away from the curb and start down the lane. Then, he sat down in his recliner feeling suddenly very tired.
The car stopped jerking Elizabeth out of her reverie. Marcus smiled down at her and said, simply, "We are here." The driver opened the door and she felt the urge to flee. Vaguely, somewhere deep down it registered that Darcy Williams lived in a mansion. She wanted desperately to go back to the airport and retrace her steps from there. Maybe, no one would notice her arrival...after all, she was just a friend of their niece. Her hopes were dashed when she saw a man, who most definitely had to be Darcy's father, coming down the stairs toward them smiling. "So, how was the flight?"
"It was smooth....I slept all the way here."
"Is this her?" Elizabeth silently cursed her appearance. Her hand unconsciously tucked a loose curl behind her ear. Marcus smiled through the introduction his hand absently going to the small of her back, "Uncle George meet Elizabeth Bennet!"
"I must say I've been very anxious to meet you, young lady." George paused and could not help but be confused. He had expected a voluptuous blonde, but was not at all disappointed with the short auburn woman before him. Red hair and green eyes would be a welcome change at Pemberley. . He realized he was staring at her. "Now, I can see all of the raves have not been grossly exaggerated." Elizabeth blushed wondering how one man could so look like another, but be his complete opposite. "You are very kind, Mr. Williams."
"No that won't do, Elizabeth. Mr. Williams is my father...I'm simply George. Please let me help you with your bags." She held up her suitcase. "This is it. I travel light." She blushed at her words but was relieved when he offered her his arm. "That I have to say, is a refreshing change. Could you be so kind as to try to rub off on my wife?"
She laughed and hoped that Pemberley would not be that bad after all.
That hope died the instant she walked into the foyer of the mansion. Everything was bright and elegant. She immediately felt out of place....as if someone like her could ever feel at home here. The woman standing next to Jane in the foyer was everything that Elizabeth wished she could be. Cool and Confident. She almost shrunk back as she recognized a blue version of Darcy's disapproving gaze appraise her and find her lacking in a matter of seconds. Elizabeth met the blue eyes unflinching. Let her think what she wants. I am here for Jane. And then Jane rushed forward wrapping her in a tight hug. "I'm so glad that you are here...I was afraid you wouldn't come....I'm so glad you did, I missed you so much!" As the two women hugged and chatted, George was pleased by the immediate change in his niece. He had to admit he had been slightly curious to met this Elizabeth character ever since Jane made her request, but what had really made the decision firm in his mind was Darcy's reaction to the mere mention of her name. George replayed the image from their lunch earlier that day.
"And what do you want for Christmas, Jane?"
Jane had looked up from her plate meeting his eyes, "I want Elizabeth Bennet."
Darcy had almost fell out of his seat and excused himself from the table only seconds later. Oh yes, George had to admit his curiosity was peeked. He saw his wife's evident disapproval of their newest guest out of the corner of his eye. He sighed hoping she would not scare this one off quickly. But, his wife was never one to disappoint. "Jane, are you going to introduce your friend to the rest of the family or not?" His wife's impatience made her blue eyes sparkle. George shifted a little uncomfortable at her tone.
"Oh, I'm sorry." Jane's voice was apologetic. Immediately, Elizabeth felt the crystal eyes sweep over her and she steeled herself. After all, I've had months of practice with Darcy's glare. She fortified herself with the thought. "This is my aunt, Anne Williams. Aunt, this is Liz---Elizabeth Bennet."
Anne said with little feeling and no attempt at friendliness. "A pleasure I am sure." She even sounds like Darcy. Elizabeth smiled again fighting the overwhelming urge to curtsey to this woman. "The pleasure, I am sure, will be all mine." Anne's expression left little doubt that she believed the sincerity of Lizzy's polite reply. Anne turned her head slightly and commanded, "Georgiana come meet our guest."
For the first time, she noticed the quiet child standing next to George. Her green eyes met the frightened blue ones staring up at her. "Hi, there." She bent down to be on the girl's level. "I'm Lizzy."
"I'm Georgiana Darcy. Very pleased to meet you." The girl whispered, then scrambled back behind her father. Elizabeth felt instantly sorry for her. A mother like Anne and a brother like Darcy. As if he could read her thoughts, George winked, "We aren't as bad as it seems. You must be tired from such a long day....let's get you settled." As they left the foyer and started up the longest staircase she had ever seen, Elizabeth turn to Jane and whispered, "Maybe, I should leave a trail of bread crumbs so I won't get lost." For a reply, she heard Georgiana's soft giggle as the small child trailed a short distance behind them.
Anne watched the party ascending the stairs a few moments before she turned to look at her nephew catching him staring at Elizabeth's retreating form. "Isn't she dating Richard?" Anne did not mince words. "From what Jane said, they are seeing each other." Anne liked the honesty in Marcus. She looked back at the stairs. "I do hope she thought to bring something suitable to wear for New Years." She saw his face turn pink. It was as she thought. He was half in love with this "Elizabeth Bennet." Marcus met her eyes and said firmly. "Goodnight, Aunt."
Anne watched Marcus leave feeling regret. As she headed to the kitchen for a cup of tea, Anne found herself thinking about their guest. Jeans and a sweatshirt. And, all of that red hair. How could a woman travel looking like that? Anne shook her head. Positively carefree. And what did she hope to gain from Jane's friendship? Anne hoped that this woman Jane evidently favored would not hurt her niece. She stiffened. Jane was so gullible sometimes. If Anne had seen it once, she had seen it a dozen of times. A woman like Elizabeth Bennet with little to nothing to offer materially trying to use her wiles to gain entrance into a society far above her means. Anne felt herself go cold. She would have to watch Jane....and Marcus. This Elizabeth Bennet must not be allowed to move into a position to hurt one or both of them. That settled the matter, Anne told herself.
But, yet, there was something about the woman Anne could not dismiss so easily from her mind. It was the honest laughter in those green eyes when they settled on her...as if this woman presumed to laugh at her, Anne Williams.
Frowning, she entered the kitchen and was startled to find Darcy nibbling on a cookie at the counter. Silently, Anne admired her son finding in him a very pleasing union of her strength and her husband's good looks. Darcy nodded and reached for another cookie. "Mother." It was a familiar habit of the two. Evening tea before bedtime. Tonight, though, something about his presence here in the kitchen tonight nagged at her.
Darcy had never before missed greeting a guest at Pemberley. Anne asked pointedly, "Why are you hiding in here?" She put the teakettle on the stove and waited patiently for his answer. His response was like her question. Pointed. "I'm not hiding." A silence descended between them. After a few minutes, he finally glanced up at her meeting her expectant eyes. "Is she here?"
Anne's eyes narrowed on him not in the slightest pleased with his question. "Yes, Elizabeth Bennet is here." The teakettle behind her whined serving as punctuation.
Thank you, Amy! I really appreciated all the encouragement and suggestions!
Elizabeth woke and instinctively knew that there was someone with her in bed. Disorientated, she rolled over and promptly fell onto the floor. Her thud was greeted by a soft giggle. As she peered from her station on the floor, she saw Georgiana sitting cross-legged on her bed. "Hello." Elizabeth said rubbing her backside. The girl's blue eyes sparkled, "It's almost time for breakfast....."
"Good, I'm starving. But, I need to shower before I go down and brush my teeth...." She noticed the girl squirm, "Have you brushed yours yet?" Georgiana shook her head sadly.
"Well you do know dental hygiene is very important?" Then, Elizabeth couldn't resist. "And, do you know what happens to little girls that don't brush their teeth?"
Georgiana's eyes grew wide, "No. What?"
"The tickle monster gets them...." She tickled the girl until she was out of breath.
"I like you...." Georgiana said timidly hugging Lizzy. "Will you be my friend?"
Lizzy laughed and wrinkled her nose. "Well, all my friends brush their teeth..." The child immediately launched herself off the bed and skidded to a halt at her door, "I'll be right back.....You won't go down without me, will you?"
"I won't!" Elizabeth was sure if she tried, she would get lost on her own. Maybe I should have left a bread-crumb trail.
Minutes later as Elizabeth toweled her wet hair, she heard the soft knock on her door. Smiling, she opened it. "Honey, you don't have to knock. You can just let yourself in like you did this morning...." It was then that she noticed the men's shoes. She let her eyes follow the legs, the torso, the chest, the neck until her eye's connected to familiar black ones. Elizabeth wondered if she prayed really hard if she could become invisible. Embarrassment colored her cheeks, "I thought you were someone else..."
"That's obvious." Darcy's voice was harsh. "Have you seen my sister?"
She looked in the direction his sister had gone, "I'd imagine she is brushing her teeth......"
He cut off her explanation. "My mother wanted to talk to her....." Elizabeth thought he wanted to add to warn Georgiana away from Jane's misfit friends. "...and the maid saw her go into your room."
"Well, she was here, but she left." Darcy he peered into her room as if he didn't believe her. She moved aside in the narrow doorway, "Would you care to come look for her yourself? Do you think I have hidden her under my bed?" His dark eyes snapped back to her face searching for something. Then, they dropped to her lips as if daring her to speak. She immediately felt something hot go through her and she shifted uncomfortably in the doorway. Unconsciously, she tightened the ties to her robe.
She heard the scampering of tiny feet and instantly Georgiana was between them in the hallway. The small child took Elizabeth's hand in one of hers and she looked up at her brother reverently, "Darcy, did you know that dental hygiene is very important?" Darcy met Elizabeth's eyes over his sister's blonde head, "Yes, I did."
"Come on...we're gonna be late.." Georgiana grabbed Lizzy by the hand and began pulling her toward the staircase. Elizabeth laughed at the child's enthusiasm. "Sweetie, I have to put some clothes on..."
Georgie stopped and looked her up and down. "But, you look pretty in that."
"That has to be the best compliment I have ever received in my entire life." She kissed the child's cheek and then hugged her tight.
"Georgiana, mother wants you downstairs this minute!" His voice was so gruff that it even surprised Elizabeth. For a second, the child seemed to be hung with indecision looking from one to the other, then she ran toward the stairs which evidently would take her toward her mother. Without a word, Darcy followed after his sister.
Nothing would have prepared Elizabeth for breakfast with the Williams. Anne's eyes met hers as soon as she entered the dining room. Her expression bordered on one of disgust....after all, Lizzy, it turned out, was a full ten minutes late for breakfast. George was reading The Wall Street Journal; Darcy was staring at the centerpiece as if he was convinced it was going to spring to life; Georgie was eating oatmeal, methodically spooning it, but decidedly not looking at her; Even Marcus and Jane, who were usually lively at the table, had succumbed. Elizabeth nibbled on a piece of bacon wondering if she was somehow stuck in an episode of the twilight zone.
No wonder Darcy is dysfunctional. The thought was enough to push Elizabeth over the edge. The laughter simply bubbled out of her. Frantically, she tried to sip of water to stop herself, but the attempt was in vain. Jane began to laugh and then Marcus. It was a chain reaction. Confused, George folded his Journal and looked down the table at her. He seemed surprised by the sound of laughter. He winked and then joined in with them. A moment later, oatmeal forgotten, Georgie began giggling too. Anne placed her utensils down on her plate as a signal of annoyance and the laughter stopped at the table. She pinned her eyes on her niece, " "What are you going to do with your friend today, Jane?" Send her home? Elizabeth was sure it was what Anne wanted to suggest and the idea made her laugh again. Jane and Marcus both grinned at her, but Anne's face set. "Pray, what is so funny?" That you actually talk this way ... Elizabeth laughed again sure that Anne would not appreciate her sense of humor. She tried to catch her breath, but it was hard. "I'm sorry.....I just have a really over active imagination...I...." Her eyes flew to Darcy's face, it was a dark version of his mother's. Dysfunctional Darcy . The laughter started again. Jane and Marcus were not far behind her.
When the three friends stopped laughing, Elizabeth took stock of the Williams. George and Georgie smiled back at her almost waiting to see what she was going to do next. Anne and Darcy frowned dreading what she was going to do next. Two out of four ain't bad . Elizabeth probably would have dissolved into laughter again, but she saw Anne's scowl deepen. She shook her head and managed with some effort to wipe all sense of pleasure from her face. Trying to change the subject to something that would not make her laugh, she said, "Pemberley is a very charming."
"Thank you." Anne's eyes narrowed on her again. Was this woman actually making fun of Pemberley? George saw his wife's face and steered the conversation, "So, Jane. What are you and Lizzy going to do today?" His paper now forgotten.
"I thought we could go on a grand tour of Pemberley unless Lizzy is tired from working...." Jane nudged her. "She is a work-a-holic." Elizabeth shrugged. So, she worked, most people worked. Anne picked up her fork and met her eyes, "And exactly what kind of work do you do, Miss Bennet?"
"I work in a nursing home."
George looked at her face confused, "Aren't you a little young to be doing that?"
"No." Elizabeth smiled at Darcy's father. "It is really rewarding...."
"You must make your parents very proud." Anne's voice was openly sarcastic. Elizabeth momentarily met the cold eyes across the table. She had to remind herself This woman knows nothing about me. She could not possibly be this mean if she did. Jane offered salvation, "How about that tour right now, Lizzy?"
"Yes," Elizabeth stood quickly, "Thank you, it was a very memorable breakfast."
George smiled warmly. "Yes, it was." He had seen the momentary flicker of pain on the young woman's face and he hoped his wife had missed it. Anne could be vicious if you did not earn her respect....and this woman, George was sure, would never be able to live up to anything close to what Anne had come to respect over the years.
In the dark, Pemberley had been impressive. In the bright December sunlight, Elizabeth was absolutely captivated. "Beautiful!" She said turning back to see the house from a distance. "Just like a Christmas card.......A real honest Winter Wonderland...."
"Glad you came?"
"Now, I am." Elizabeth said taken in by the perfection of her surroundings.
"Doesn't Anne make you feel warm and fuzzy?"
"Not at all! I fear, she will not soon forgive you for letting ME into their home."
"I'm afraid I will never exactly rise high in my aunt's esteem....." she said in a perfect impression of Anne's voice, "Jane, you have too much of Lola in you..." she laughed outright, then became serious, "I don't know how Darcy tolerates it so well."
"I agree." Elizabeth remembered their morning encounter in the hallway. "I almost feel sorry for him.....growing up here must have been rough.....but then, he is a lot like his mother....."
"That's funny. I always thought Darcy was more like George..."
"Like George?" Lizzy laughed at the thought.
After they walked the grounds for a few hours, they headed back to the main house. Elizabeth's head swam more with each room. There was the conservatory, the billiards room, a ballroom, a study, a den, a second den, George's office, a whole series of bedrooms and private baths. Pemberley had an indoor pool and arcade. Jane pushed back two heavy doors.
"I know that this is going to impress you the most, Lizzy." She lead Elizabeth into a three story room. "Wow!" Elizabeth said turning small circles in the center of the large library. The leather bindings cried down from their place high upon shelves. "Impressive, huh?" Jane said. She nodded speechless. "George's great-great grandfather, Fitzwilliam Darcy Williams started the library in Pemberley. The collection had pieces that are over hundreds of years old..." Forever captured in oil, the black eyes of the former tenants of Pemberley stared down protectively. Heritage and Tradition, they seemed to whisper. It took several minutes for Lizzy to find her voice, "Do you think George would mind if I borrowed something to read?" Her prior pity for Darcy vanished. "Lizzy! You can come in here as often as you like. George said so...."
Well, if George said it was okay.....Elizabeth put off her yearning to explore the shelves. There were more important things to discuss first. She sat down in one of the wing back chairs in front of the large fire place and Jane followed her. "Okay, what is making you so unhappy?" She listened without interruption as Jane repeated her feelings about Lola's Ivan the Terrible. She knew that there was something more but she did not want to push her best friend. Long experience told her that Jane would tell her when and only when she was ready. To change the subject, she suggested, "We need some chocolate! How about we make some s'mores?" Jane agreed immediately.
Ms. Lindsey, the Williams' cook, helped them track down the necessary ingredients and they headed back to the library. They hummed the Mission Impossible theme song as they went down the hallway, through the study. They were laughing hysterically as Elizabeth opened the doors to the library. She saw the couple before the fireplace about the same time she heard Darcy's comment, "Look, I never wanted her here!" He leaned against the mantle "And my mood, as you called, it has nothing at all to do with..." Caroline touched his arm and nodded in their direction. Her smile seemed almost apologetic when she faced them.
"We were...we didn't.." Elizabeth stopped herself feeling very much like an idiot. She tried again, "We didn't know you were here..."
"Perhaps if you knocked..." Darcy turned and their eyes locked.
"LIZZZZZZY!!!!!" Georgie appeared from nowhere and threw herself around her new friend's waist. Caroline's voice was bright. "Hi, Georgiana!"
"Oh, hi, Caroline." Georgiana did not seem pleased to see Caroline. Elizabeth felt the girl's hand close around hers and she saw Caroline's smile falter. "Whatcha doing, Lizzy?"
"Jane and I were going to make s'mores."
"S'mores?" The girls voice was full of anticipation. "Whatsa s'more?"
"The best and gooiest treat in the entire world."
"Can I help?"
"Sure, Georgie," Jane said turning the child back toward the hallway, "Why don't we make them in the den since this room is occupied....." After she had Georgie and Elizabeth on their way, Jane shot Darcy a scathing look.
After their s'more feast, Elizabeth returned to her room for a nap. Her bed was made and fresh towels hung in the bathroom. She had a sneaking suspicion if she looked under the pillows she would find a perfectly wrapped mint. Kicking off her shoes and changing into sweats, she laughed as she sank gratefully into the featherbed.
When she woke up, she looked at the alarm clock in disbelief. I'm late for dinner. The thought filled her with dread. As she entered the dining room finding the family already seated, Elizabeth wondered what the penalty for being late for two meals in one day was. Anne frowned at her. Looking down, Lizzy realized she was still wearing her jogging pants and sweatshirt that read, "Minnie Mouse Rules." I'm late and not suitably attired. She almost started to laugh. Georgie grinned from her side of the table. Barely able to stop the laughter that bubbled in her, Elizabeth grinned back.
Thankfully, dinner was not as bad as breakfast. Marcus braved Anne's disapproval and engaged her in stories about his professors and Ivy league politics. From his end of the table, George noticed how his nephew's eyes scanned Elizabeth's face lovingly and he did not like it one bit. Their shared smiles were sickening. "Well, you seem to have a great interest in Harvard, Lizzy." Marcus caught the sound of displeasure in his uncle's voice and looked at him surprised.
"I'm interested in what interests Marcus." Elizabeth nodded at her best friend and smiled when he picked right back up in the middle of the story he was telling.
Since it was obvious that their dinner was going to be ruined by conversation, Anne glanced across the table. Her husband's displeasure had not gone unnoticed by her. "So, how long have you been dating Richard?" Anne asked. The effect on her nephew was immediate, but her intended victim answered evenly. "A few weeks." Elizabeth placed her hand on Marcus' protectively. Darcy glared at her. Didn't she realize she couldn't have both of his cousins?
When Elizabeth opened her eyes on the morning of her second day, Georgie was gently shaking her shoulder. She groaned, "Am I late for breakfast?"
"No," Georgie giggled. "I woke you up extra early so mommy won't be upset by your lack of punktuatlity...."
Sleepily, Lizzy moaned. "Georgie, you really are too thoughtful...." She rolled over on her stomach and Georgie crawled into the bed next to her. Elizabeth was just about to drift off again when Georgie cuddled up to her and asked, "What are you doing today?"
"Don't know." Elizabeth smiled and went up on one elbow. "Why?"
"I have a dance recital. Will you come?"
"I'm sure that Jane and I wouldn't miss it for the world." There was a knock at the door. She winked at her small friend, and said, "That's probably Jane now....she wouldn't want me to upset your mommy by my lack of punctuality either. Come on in." The door opened and for the second time in as many days, Darcy stood in her doorway. "Georgiana!" He only had to say that one word and the girl was on the move. When his sister was out of hearing, Elizabeth climbed slowly out of bed trying to check her anger. This was, after all, his house. She was, after all, the outsider here. She ran her hand through her hair in frustration. She counted to ten, but it didn't work. No, she decided, this could not continue if she was going to stay here. "You know that I never planned on intruding on your privacy....I never planned on ruining your New Years.."
"You're not staying?" His question was direct and she was stung by it.
"Tomorrow." She said surprising herself. "First thing in the morning."
Darcy stepped away from her door, "I'll let you get ready for breakfast."
Elizabeth decided to skip breakfast fearing for her sanity if she had to endure both Darcy and his mother. Somehow, it just seemed unbearable this morning. Her next visitor did not even bother to knock. Jane looked unhappy as she strode in the room. You're leaving tomorrow?"
"I see good news travels fast." Darcy wasted no time in delivering the happy news. "But, I thought you were staying through New Year's...."
"If it wasn't for you and Marcus, I'd be out of this mausoleum this very minute."
"Lizzy!!!"
"Look, I don't want to fight with you. I know Darcy is your cousin but.."
"Lizzy!!!!"
"The longer I stay, the less I can bear it. He is....."
"If you think you can bear my sister's company...." Darcy's voice stopped her ranting more effectively than Jane's. "We're leaving for her recital in 20 minutes. Or, should I inform my father you want to leave the mausoleum this very minute?" Elizabeth rose to the bait of his voice, "You'd need wild horses to prevent me from missing her recital...."
"I'll see what we have in the stables..." Darcy answered evening as he turned in the doorway adding. "In the meantime, try to make yourself presentable..." She grabbed her suitcase as soon as he was gone.
"What are you doing?" Jane asked.
"I'm packing! I've had it!"
"Lizzy, you are over reacting."
"No, I'm not."
"I don't know what has gotten into Darcy---he never acts like this. He is shy but he is never like this.....let me talk to him..." Her best friend began to round up her clothes from the bureau. "Lizzy, please! Give this one more chance. If he is rude to you one more time, you can go home. I promise. Lizzy, I need you to stay!" Seeing her misery, Elizabeth sighed loudly. "Okay, but you have to tell me what else is bothering you...."
"Charles Bingley is coming for the Ball on New Years....Darcy invited him."
After a long moment, Elizabeth began returning the clothes to her bureau.
Jane looked at her hopeful, "Does this mean you're going to stay?"
"Yes! We can't have you facing Charles Bingley by yourself, can we?"
Intermission. Thank god, Jane thought. And Darcy had not said one insulting thing to Lizzy....so far, so good. She looked over at George and Anne and they were in a debate with another couple about the merits of a proper education. She took the empty seat next to Darcy. "You really should stop that."
"Stop what?" He muttered as he absently rolled and unrolled the program in his hands. "Grinding your teeth, very bad habit." Jane teased, then turned serious. "Lizzy is staying through New Year's......"
Darcy cut her off sharply. "Why?"
"Because I need her too."
His eyes searched her face a long time. "Jane, is this about your mother? Is there something I can do? You know all you have to do is tell me what you want me to do and I'll do it for you..." Jane smiled. This was the Darcy that she had always known and loved. Not the sour, almost mean Darcy that Lizzy had known during her stay at Pemberley. "There is only one thing, dear cousin, that you can do for me."
"Name it." He said looking at her with a well of concern.
"Be nice to Lizzy until we go back to school." He turned back to the program his jaw locking again. Jane was confused by his reaction to such a simple request. "Darcy, why do you dislike her so much? What has she ever done to you?"
Darcy took his time in answering. "I would think you would be worried for Richard. Or how about your brother, Marcus? One of them is bound to get hurt by her. What is she going to do on New Years? Make them to take turns?"
Jane was annoyed. "You make it sound as if she is leading them both on...."
"Isn't she?" Darcy's eyes met hers flashing his own annoyance.
The lights dimmed signaling the end of intermission.
In the dark auditorium, Darcy wondered how long it would take for him to forget the images from the last two days. Somehow even acknowledging the fact she had both of his cousins in the palm of her hand, his eyes kept finding their way back to her. Her laughter was like a siren's....he was powerless under the pull of it. Richard. Marcus. Richard. Marcus. He kept turning the men over in his mind. What did they have he didn't? She laughed again and he twisted the program tightly in his hands. The answer was obvious.
After the performance, Georgie bounced off the stage. Elizabeth scooped the pint sized version of Anne into her arms. "What part did you like the best, Lizzy?"
"I liked the Ladybug the best....do you know where I can meet her?" She pretended to eye the little girls passing by their group.
"Lizzy," Georgie giggled, "I'm Lady Bug."
"You're Lady Bug! Aren't you kind of big to be a Bug?" Georgie's laughter rang through Darcy but her next words tore at his heart. "Lizzy, I love you." He saw Elizabeth's face soften then she rubbed her nose against Georgie's. "I love you too, Bug."
"Forever and Ever?"
"Always, forever and ever."
Anne watched the display as keenly as Darcy. Looking from the woman holding her baby to the man that was her son, she frowned. She could not lie to herself. Even though he hid it well, Anne read the longing in Darcy's brown eyes. It made her feel anxious. Not once had Jane's friend even looked at her son with remote interest. No, it was perfectly clear to her, this Elizabeth Bennet had no design on her son. And, for the first time, the knowledge that a woman did not want Darcy distressed Anne.
The bright light of the afternoon sun hurt her eyes. Anne scratched another item off of her long list of last minute items for the gala. Tired, Anne rubbed her temple but the headache would not budge. She contemplated the bottle on her desk. She took two black pills out and looked at them a long time. They stared back. She considered suffering through the headache, but there were so many loose ends to tie up.
"Lizzy, can we make a snowman?" Anne saw Elizabeth pulling Georgie in a sled across the perfectly undisturbed snow of their front lawn. Curious, Anne put the pills down and moved to the window. "We can make anything you want."
She had only intended to watch them for a few minutes, but nearly an hour later Anne remained curled up in the window seat as she watched their progress on the snowman. Elizabeth put Georgie on her shoulders so she could finish arranging the eyes and nose. Once it was done to her daughter's satisfaction, she heard Georgie ask, "What should we call him?"
"How about Mr. Carrot-Nose?" Anne smiled at Elizabeth's suggestion.
Her daughter giggled, then pouted. "Lizzy, Mr. Carrot-Nose looks lonely."
"Does he?" Elizabeth asked and to which the child nodded sadly. "Well, Bug, what should we do about it?"
"Can we make him a wife? My daddy always says that the right woman completes a man..."
"I guess then we will just have to make him a wife. We can't have Mr. C being lonely on New Years."
As her daughter arranged Mrs. C's eyes and nose with the same care she reserved for her husband, Anne found herself disappointed that the scene before her was over. She returned to her desk to sort through the last minute items on her long list. She found herself glancing to the window again. The snow couple stood with their branches touching almost as if they supported one another. Anne wondered what her guests would think of the newest residence of Pemberley. Suddenly, she was very curious to see where her daughter and Elizabeth had gone.
Anne's search did not last long. Once she descended the main staircase, she heard the shouting from the family room and headed in that direction. Marcus, Jane, Georgiana and Elizabeth were all huddled around the television. They were cheering as if they could sway the activity on it. "What are you doing?" Anne noticed the entire room go silent before her. Elizabeth turned, "We are watching the Duke/Xavier game. Anne settled uninvited across from the young women. "Who is winning?"
"Duke." Marcus said from his place on the floor.
Georgie stuck out her tongue at her cousin. "Xavier is going to win, Mommy." Anne turned her attention to the game, but she was confused which team was which. Both wore blue and white. Marcus swore and she asked, "What just happened?"
"Taggert just got a turnover." Elizabeth explained moving closer in her seat.
"A turnover?" Anne wondered if that was a good thing or not.
"A turnover is when the other team steals the ball from you---"
"Is that allowed?"
"Sometimes." Elizabeth went on to explain simple basketball terms and the rules. Anne found herself enjoying the game as Xavier and Duke see-sawed back and forth throughout the first half. She was genuinely impressed by the woman's knowledge of the game. "You really like this, Lizzy?"
"I love it! Don't you Mrs. Williams?"
"I don't know. This is my first time watching a game."
Her shock was evident. "You never watched Darcy play in high school?"
"No, I never did." Anne suddenly regretted her absences from his high school games. "Does my son play well?"
"Play well?" Elizabeth's mouth dropped. "He is....."
"He is?" Anne wanted to hear her guest elaborate, but she was disappointed when Elizabeth's attention was drawn back to the game as Richard broke away from his opponent and sank a three point basket from mid-court. Elizabeth turned to her smiling, "Did you see that?"
"See what?" George asked from the doorway a little surprised to see his wife with the others. Anne turned to him annoyed at his interruption, "Richard just scored."
"Duke is going down," Elizabeth added ruffling Marcus' hair. His nephew rolled his eyes in their direction, then smiled back at the door. "Darcy! Can you tell these deranged women that there is no way that Duke is going to let an unranked, untalented team like Xavier beat them?"
"I'll reserve my judgment." Darcy stated moving into the room. He was as surprised as George to see his mother watching the game, "What's the score?"
Anne answered, "54-60....Duke. Two minutes left to play."
"Xavier will pull off the upset." Elizabeth prophesied.
"You've lost your mind." Marcus circled his ear with his finger.
Darcy sat next to Marcus on the floor positioning himself between his cousin and Elizabeth. With ten seconds on the clock, Darcy was amused by Marcus' disbelief at Xavier's comeback. "I can't believe it!"
"Pay up, sucker!" Elizabeth's voice was playful.
"Right now?" Marcus pretended to whine when she nodded, "You are ruthless."
"So you have told me on more than one occasion." Darcy tried to ignore the twisting in his stomach as he felt the chemistry between the two. His cousin began, "You are the foreseer of basketball greatness....you are the most brilliant...."
"You forgot gorgeous..." Georgie added giggling.
"Thank you, Georgie. You are gorgeous.....the most gifted woman I know."
"With the exception of Lady Bug." Elizabeth teased.
"I concede that there are few fairer than Lady Bug."
"And..." Lizzy prompted. Darcy hated the light in her eyes when she looked at Marcus. Had she just suddenly forgotten about Richard?
"Elizabeth Bennet is ALWAYS right." Disgusted, Darcy turned his attention back to the television. The sportscaster announced, "Xavier upset Duke...Final score 68-62. The Muskies have come to play this year, BABY!!! Talk about Cinderella teams in the making-----"
The co-host added, "What I'd like to know is where did Richard Fritz and Charles Bingley come from....."
"Three point land, Baby!" The first announcer added smiling. Darcy felt nauseous. It wasn't that he wasn't happy that his cousin and his best friend had done well. It was the fact that Elizabeth had been right. He hated to admit it, but Xavier looked good this year. For the first time, he acknowledged Xavier may have a chance to make the tournament.
"Well, Mrs. Williams, what do you think about basketball now?" Anne met the their guest's enthusiasm with reserve. She ignored Elizabeth's question wishing to have the answer to a different one. "Richard is very good is he not?"
"Yes, he is. Richard practices very hard." Elizabeth added, "Your son is very talented on the court too. He may even have a better game than Richard."
"Really?" Georgie's voice was awestruck. "He's as good as cousin Richard?"
"Probably better..." She admitted the truth easily. Darcy was embarrassed by her unexpected compliment. "Georgie, Elizabeth is teasing you. I'm really not that good..."
"Darcy, now you are being modest." His eyes met her dancing ones. She cocked an eyebrow in his direction. "You really do have a dominating presence on the court." The memory of their basketball game had never fully been subjected to the back of his mind. He still could remember the way she moved shadowing him. He looked away. He had lost that game that day in more ways than one.
"I'm late," Darcy said standing, "I'm going to Caroline's. We are going to the airport to pick up her friend so I won't be back in time for dinner....." Anne watched as he quickly exited the room with an increasingly heavy heart.
Later that night when she heard the even breathing of her husband, Anne crept out of their bed. She wondered down the hall and opened the door to the right of the master suite. Light from the hallway illuminated her daughter's blonde curls as they splayed over the pillow. Anne kissed her sleeping daughter's forehead inhaling the sweet perfume of her as she pulled the comforter tight. Georgie turned in her sleep, "Mommy?"
"Yes, honey." Her voice was a whisper.
"Can we keep Lizzy?"
"We will try, Bug." Anne left the room as quietly as she entered.
The kitchen was her last stop before she could retire. Upon her entrance, Darcy looked up from the book he was reading and nodded. The aroma of the tea he made was inviting. After pouring her own cup, she watched as he turned a page with the long fingers he inherited from his father. Darcy, it almost seemed, had grown up almost overnight. Yes, Anne decided, he was going to be a fine man. A good husband like his father. Patient and tender. She felt the tears sting her eyes and she looked into her tea cup. Looking up, her eyes collided with her sons.
His eyes were silently questioning her. He waited for an explanation. She sipped her tea not ready to give him one. She knew he sensed something was wrong, but she was not ready to share her secret just yet.
Moments later sighing loudly, Darcy stood and gave her his customary peck on the cheek before he headed off to his bed. Anne rinsed their tea things in the sink and placed them in the cabinet. She closed up the cookies that Darcy left on the table and put them up as well. That done, she looked about the spacious kitchen. It was immaculate. Everything perfect. And returning to her seat at the table, alone and as soundlessly as she could, Anne gave way to the tears she refused to shed in the presence of others.
Across the master bathroom, Jane watched her aunt and her best friend with a growing curiosity. Marcus was right that was for certain. Darcy wasn't the only Williams acting strange lately. Her aunt's offer to have her own personal stylist Frederick do their hair had been a surprise but seeing her aunt personally applying Elizabeth's makeup was something Jane would never live to forget. Anne laid the eye shadow she was using on the counter and handed Elizabeth a mirror to view the finished product. She barely recognized her own reflection. Her eyes were greener, her lashes longer, her lips fuller. She looked at Jane who stated, "You look gorgeous, Lizzy."
"Yes, you do." Anne added.
"Mrs. Williams, I don't know what to say."
Anne smiled, "Well, I happen to know that doesn't happen very often."
Her reward was Elizabeth's laughter.
Back in her own room and in her evening gown, Elizabeth's nerves kicked into overdrive. She had thought that the black dress she had worn to the Christmas Dance had been revealing but she felt almost naked in the small slip of a green dress. She fought the urge to cover herself with her arms. She eyed the woman in the mirror again. True, she admitted, she was not a raving beauty like Caroline, but the transformation of hair and makeup almost made her look elegant. Shrew Indeed. A knock sounded and when she opened the door, her odds of an enjoyable evening improved drastically. Richard's eyes grew wide at the sight of her. "Lizzy...you look....different..."
"Good different?" She tossed a worried look at the mirror.
"More like...." He stopped then whispered. "There really are no words."
"You look pretty hot yourself." As one of her friends was always fond of pointing out, a man in evening clothes really could do no wrong. A man with Richard's good looks in evening clothes....the effect was downright devastating.
"I thought we could go to the Ball together----I would have asked you but I didn't think that you would be interested in coming to Pemberley for the holidays."
"It was a last minute decision. Jane asked me to come along to keep her company." Richard smiled at her. "Remind me to thank her later, will you."
Elizabeth had been nervous about how Connecticut society would greet her, but somehow knowing Richard was going to be by her side made it a little easier to bare. If her first meeting with Darcy and Anne was any indication of what she had to look forward to, she was about to be thrown to a pack of wolves.
As they descended the main staircase, Elizabeth was amazed at the transformation of the grand house. The merry scene before her made her feel like she had just been transported into the middle of a fairy tale. There were hundreds of guest laughing and dancing. Just as she dismissed her fears, her date ruined her new found self-confidence. "Oh, look. There is Darcy...." She wanted to object as he propelled her in the direction she most wanted to avoid but she could not think of an excuse. As they crossed the room, he commented, "Boy, he doesn't look like he is having a good time."
"I don't imagine he has a good time anywhere..."
Richard threw back his head and laughed. "You don't know him like I do."
She pointed out the obvious. "I don't want to know him like you do."
He stopped, smile fading fast. "You two don't get on at all, do you?"
"No. We don't." She gained very little satisfaction in admitting the truth and she knew that Richard was torn between the desire to have his cousin's company and hers. I've almost spent a week in his presence, what was one more night? She softened. "I'm being silly....how bad could saying hello be?"
Darcy willed his own eyes anywhere but where they eventually landed. He could feel the power of her seduction and the pounding of his chest intensified. This is ridiculous. I am with the most beautiful woman in the room. His hand went to Caroline's but his eyes wondered back to Elizabeth. I wonder if she knows green is my favorite color? The thought was through his mind before he could stop it. Darcy noticed the soft murmurs of admiration her presence was garnering but she never took her eyes off his cousin. So, it is going to be Richard tonight after all. Darcy realized too late that his week of avoiding Pemberley had not strengthened his resolve against her. His plan to avoid her this night, with her every step in his direction, was becoming a remote possibility.
Richard sat them directly across from Caroline and Darcy. Well, this is cozy, She thought of the silent tension at the table. Richard broached a subject near to his own heart. "Darcy, did you catch the Duke game?"
"Yes, I did. You guys barely squeaked by them."
"Well, if you played, maybe we wouldn't have such a hard time...."
"I told you before I don't want to play." Darcy's jaw locked. Richard sighed loudly, "That is what Charles said you'd say..." At the mention of her friend's name, Elizabeth turned to hunt the room for him. Charles was dancing with Julia. She turned back frowning. Caroline, no doubt, insisted on inviting her best friend. Looking across the table, she noticed the anger in Darcy's eye. She turned to smile at her date. Richard kissed her hand and said, "Do you even know how beautiful you are?"
Caroline's voice was sharp. "Darcy, I'd like to dance now!"
"Wow," Richard said watching his cousin rise and attend to his girlfriend. "I've never seen Darcy move that quickly before..."
Elizabeth found it strangely fascinating to watch the couple together. They look just like I'd imagine George and Anne did when they were younger. The thought caused her to smile. Richard took her hand in his as if reading her thoughts.
Not too much time passed before Richard was called away by a fan who wanted details about the basketball game and she found herself alone at their table. She found Jane in the center of the floor, and even from a distance she knew that her best friend was dancing with someone who was not Charles. He had black hair and was taller. She was about to interrupt them when she felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned expecting Richard but finding George Williams instead. "Will you dance with me, Miss Bennet?"
"I'm afraid I must warn you, I dance very ill...." George led her out to the dance floor not too far from his son. She tried to ignore the other couples who stopped dancing to watch the Master of Pemberley. The gathered crowd clapped appreciatively when the song ended. George pulled her into a hug, "It was a pleasure I hope we get to repeat every time you are at Pemberley." She laughed at the likelihood of her ever being in Connecticut much less his home She agreed. "Every time I'm at Pemberley."
She turned to head back to her seat, but his hand caught hers. "Such a lovely partner should not be forced to sit down so early in the evening. I'm sure that I could prevail upon at least one man here to dance with you." Her cheeks flamed in embarrassment at the thought of having George arrange her evening's dance card. Thankfully, Richard rescued her. "Uncle, you don't have to find dance partners for my girl?" My girl? Her eyes widened, but she checked her tongue.
George bowed to her. "I will leave you in good hands." Elizabeth almost winced at the thought of Richard's good hands. . She smiled at her date, but he frowned. "Darcy, have you noticed that your dad is acting strange tonight?"
"Yes, he is." Caroline materialized at Darcy's side and immediately claimed his arm. "Darcy, I would like to get something to drink. Would you care to join me?"
"I would." Again, Elizabeth watched the couple curiously.
Several dances later, Charles' southern twang was a welcome relief to her. "Care if I interrupt?" Richard let her go slowly. "I guess it won't hurt to let you have one dance with my girl." My girl. Elizabeth ignored the comment. She had too much to deal with all ready to take that conversation on tonight. Her first priority was to find a way to get Charles away from Julia and with Jane. And Jane! She had never switched dance partners the entire evening. Her best friend was still with the handsome man looking for all the world to be having a fabulous time. Elizabeth was exhausted and it wasn't even midnight yet. She decided not to be coy. "Doesn't Jane look nice?"
"Yes, she does. And she does seem to have her share of admirers."
"Does she?" Charles' blush was all the encouragement she needed. She leaned close to him. "I think there is one admirer she has been most anxious to dance with...."
"Are you sure? She doesn't look like she is interested in more than one." He smiled sheepishly before saying, "Since we are exchanging confidences, she isn't the only one with admirers ...."
Elizabeth paled. "Charles, I don't really want to discuss this now."
"You know...." The blonde looked visibly shocked. Elizabeth laughed, "Well, it is obvious. Look at the way he is acting..."
"So, what are you going to do about it?"
"Nothing." She read the distress on his face. "I know he is your friend but......"
"You really haven't given him much of a chance."
"I don't like him like that...I....."
"Lizzy, he is crazy about you."
The guilt over her flirtation with Richard swallowed her whole. "I'm sorry but the feeling is not mutual."
As the dance came to a close, both partners were unhappy with where their conversation ended. Richard was about to claim her for the next dance, when George appeared by their side.
"Richard, I have some associates who can't wait to hear all about your game the other day." Elizabeth smiled knowing that her date would be occupied some time rehashing the Duke/Xavier game. Unfettered for the first time, she searched for Jane.
Jane smiled as she took the seat next to her. "Lizzy, there you are. I want you to meet Dennis Wickham." Elizabeth liked the warmth she found in the brown eyes that were searching hers. Her eyebrow cocked in Jane's direction. "Dennis, would you mind if I borrow Jane for a minute? I've got something personal I'd like to discuss with her?"
"Be my guest." Dennis' smile was almost as bright as Charles.
Elizabeth closed the door to her room behind her. "Okay, who is he?"
"Dennis is the best looking man in the room."
"What about Charles?" She tried to process her best friend's change of heart.
Jane's smile faded quickly. "What about him?"
"You are over him, just like that? Isn't that sudden...even for you?"
"I am being realistic, Lizzy. He obviously cares for Julia----he came to Connecticut to be with her......."
"What?" Elizabeth was confused. "Who told you that?"
"Caroline told me that Charles found out that Julia was going to be here and the next day he accepted Darcy's invitation to come to Pemberley."
"I don't think Charles' decision to come here had anything to do with Julia at all."
"Then, why is he with her?"
"I can give you one good reason." Elizabeth tried to keep her frustration at bay. "He is tall, dark and handsome. And you have allowed him to monopolize you all evening." Again, the glazed look crossed Jane's face. "Dennis said I was the most beautiful woman in the room....he said that when he was with me he thought of no one else." Elizabeth sighed exasperated. She was going to have to resort to some subtle maneuvers to get the two "right" people together. It was clear that Jane was not going to be much help. She had a good idea who would be though.
" You need my help? Couldn't Richard help you?" She saw the glint in Marcus' eyes and was relieved he was teasing her about his cousin. That was a good sign. "Well, this is a little more delicate. I need you to dance with Julia.."
"Why do you want me to dance with Julia?" .
"I'm trying to make Jane's New Year bright."
"Don't approve of Dennis, huh?" He searched Elizabeth's face, then whispered. "I'll assume that Julia is the one attached to our little unsuspecting victim like a leech..."
"You have the most entertaining way of putting things..." She laughed and was aware that Darcy's eyes narrowed on her. As she returned to her seat next to Jane, Marcus sprang into action. "Charles, would you care if I danced a few with Julia ?" Elizabeth watched with glee as Dennis led Jane out to the floor as well. This was going better than planned. Now, all she had to do was get Charles to the dance floor and switch partners with Jane. She smiled at Charles meeting his eyes. "Well, it does seem that I am without a partner again....."
"Elizabeth, if you would do me the honor of dancing the next?" She felt a chill run down her spine at the request. Turning slowly, Darcy Williams stood next hand outstretched.
"Has Jane always been so friendly?" Marcus ground his teeth understanding instantly why Lizzy disliked this woman. He tried to control the anger in his voice when he answered, "Yes, my sister has lots of friends."
"Yes, she does." Julia's smile turned his stomach. "But, tonight, she seems to prefer the company of Mr. Wickham to every other man in the room."
"Well, the night is still early," Marcus said under his breath as he prayed that Elizabeth hurried up. There would be no telling what he was going to say to this woman if he was left with her too long. "You don't approve of Dennis?" Julia seem to seize upon every opportunity for gossip.
"I think there are better men here." His answer was evasive. Unable to distinguish his meaning, she continued, "But, they do make an attractive couple..."
"Yes, they look good together."
Julia decided to change subjects, "I was so surprised when Caroline said that you didn't have a date tonight..." Marcus stiffened and she noticed his discomfort. She continued, "I find it hard to believe that you couldn't find a single woman to bring tonight. You are so handsome and have so much going for you."
Gee, thanks. He finally said aloud, "Thank you."
"Thank you, but I thought Charles ......" Elizabeth's eyes pleaded with her friend.
"I'm sure Charles would not wish to deprive me of the pleasure of dancing
with you." Darcy's voice left no room for argument. She watched as Charles retook his seat and said, "I would by no means suspend any pleasure of yours, Darcy.''
This could not happen! She stammered, "I only thought that ....I do not......"
Darcy's hand was on her elbow stopping her from retaking her seat. "I insist, Elizabeth. Were you not just begging for a partner?" She realized with a sinking heart she was stuck and it irked her that her fate had been sealed by the very person she was trying to help. She shot a withering look at Charles who actually had the audacity to be smirking at her. Left no other option but out and out rudeness, she politely accepted Darcy's still outstretched hand. Dancing with Darcy, she was sure, was going to be a close second to getting a root canal without nova cane. She made a conscious effort to remove all traces of dislike from her face as she followed him to the dance floor.
"Jane said that you use to date Elizabeth." Julia's voice had an oozing quality that Marcus found highly unattractive. Trying to ignore her, Marcus focused his attention on the surrounding couples wondering if Elizabeth had Charles out on the floor yet. When he saw Darcy leading Elizabeth by the hand to the dance floor, his stomach dropped. Dancing with Darcy had definitely not been part of the plan. Sensing his displeasure, Julia whispered, "Darcy must be feeling generous tonight......"
"Why is that?" His words were forced and Julia smiled at his reaction. This might prove to be a highly interesting night indeed.
"Darcy doesn't like Elizabeth." He returned his gaze to the couple taking the dance floor and something about the way Darcy was looking at Elizabeth made Marcus extremely uneasy. He muttered more to himself than Julia, "He doesn't?"
Darcy's hand slid to Elizabeth's waist and tightened there. She looked confused by the firmness of his grasp. He pressed his cheek to hers, his breath was warm against her ear when he spoke, "I'm only going to warn you once....stay away from Charles."
"What?" She tried to step away from him, but his hand held her firm.
"You heard me. Stay away from him." Her eyes glittered. She would not give up her friendship with Charles just because Darcy Williams commanded it. Her eyes narrowed, "And exactly what are you going to do if I won't."
"Don't toy with me! You will not like the results of my anger."
"Really? You being angry....now that would be hard for me to imagine." Her sarcasm was not lost on Darcy. Annoyed, his fingers dug into the soft skin of her back. "I'm only going to warn you once. You will leave Charles alone....."
She tried to control her own rising temper and tried to set him straight. "I'm not interested in Charles ..." She glared at him, but softened seeing the confused expression on his face. Maybe he was trying to protect Charles...maybe he knew about Jane. She began in a soft voice, "Surely you know the only reason I am in even at Pemberley is...." She stopped unsure how much Jane had told him, "Look, I'm only interested in your cousin's happiness..." She shook her head causing his senses to reel from the sensation of her hair brushing against his cheek. Anger flared in him at his own weakness. He had to conquer this before it got out of hand. His voice was harsh when he began again, "Really? And which one of my cousins would you be interested in making happy tonight? Is it Marcus' night or Richard's?"
"How dare you!" Elizabeth tried to pull away from him, but his hand held her firm almost effortlessly. "This may come as a shock to you, but whatever I do is my business ....not yours..."
"If your business causes problems in my family....it becomes my problem." Darcy voice was calm as their eyes met. Their bodies still glided against each other. "You will choose between them...tonight...."
"I don't have to choose between them. I don't have to do anything you want me to do." She seethed, "I likeMarcus and Richard and I value their friendship. Besides, they're both grown men............."
"I guess I will take your word for it," Darcy hissed as the song came to a close. "For I am sure, that you have more than known more than your share of men. In fact, I imagine you are quite the expert on the subject." Briefly, her eyes glowed like green flames, then the familiar soft smile curved her lips as she lowered her arms. " Darcy, I wish I could say it has been a pleasure." Turning, she left him alone in the center of the dance floor.
"Please excuse me," Marcus did not wait for Julia's response as he moved to intercept Elizabeth from fleeing the ballroom. He stopped her with a hand and then read the pain in her face. "Why don't we get some fresh air?"
Once out on the balcony, Marcus cursed his decision. She was going to freeze in her little slip of a gown. He draped his tuxedo jacket over her shoulders and pulled her into a familiar hug. He felt her arms wrap around him as she shivered, "I want to go home, Marcus. I can't stand it here one more minute......I've never done anything to him.....he really hates me....I've tried and tried....and OH he is so horrible..."
He pressed her closer to him. "We can leave first thing in the morning."
She sighed. "Marcus, you don't have to leave because of me...."
"Lizzy...." He ran his nose over her jaw line, breathing the strawberry scent of her hair, "I want to be where you are. Don't you know that?" He nuzzled her neck whispering, "You're the one I want, Lizzy. You've always been what I wanted....."
Marcus was not the only man to follow Elizabeth from the ballroom. How could she do this? Through the glass in the French door, Darcy watched as Marcus kissed Elizabeth with a violent passion. Anger flowed through his veins like lava. His hand instinctively went to the door handle.....
"Darcy, there you are.....Caroline has been looking all over for you......" Darcy's hand drop from the latch at the sound of the feminine voice. "You weren't going outside ?"
"N---No." He turned to look at her. He smiled, "Of course, not."
Julie's smile was smug, "Have you seen Lizzy by any chance? Richard asked for her."
"No....no, I haven't." Darcy blocked Julia's view of the balcony, "Have you checked the ladies?"
"You know I never even thought of that....I think I'll check there next." Her voice was disinterested as she turned to leave, but stopped. "If you happen to see Lizzy...you will tell her that Richard is looking for her."
"Of course." Darcy watched as Julia turned left through the foyer then he glanced back at the French doors. Making a quick decision, he returned to the ballroom to make sure that Richard did not find Elizabeth alone with Marcus. Julia waited until he rounded the corner then she moved into action knowing instinctively what had drawn Darcy's attention so completely.
"Please Marcus. Don't." Elizabeth pushed herself back from her friend. "I can't be what you want me to be, Marcus. Don't you see that? I don't want to hurt you....I've never wanted to hurt you....you've always been like a brother to me...."
"A brother?" She heard the tremor of pain in his voice. "Is that what you think of me, Lizzy? After all this time? A brother."
A brother? Julia was frustrated. Did Elizabeth have a brother? Then, who was this brother she was talking about? She could barely hear Marcus and Elizabeth's responses were too low to make out either. The balcony was quiet for a long time and Julia glanced out willing them to continue their conversation. Her persistence paid off dividends. She made out Marcus next comment clearly. "I think it's best if you leave tomorrow.....alone...." Julia smiled.
"Marcus...." Elizabeth put a hand on his forearm. "I've tried to be want you to be and I can't any more.....Don't you see that we would end up making each other miserable....You want the devoted little wife who gives you children who keeps your house and makes your dinners..."
"Lizzy...I can wait for that..."
"That's the problem, Marcus. I don't want that...I'll never want that. I don't want to be married or have children....EVER. And, I don't want to be responsible for making someone else happy for the rest of my life....Can't you be satisfied knowing I love you....." She felt the tears slip down her cheeks. "Can't we be like we were before we started dating....best friends....can't we be friends again, Marcus."
"I don't know," He walked to the railing. "Tonight ....seeing you with him...."
"Marcus, Richard and I are only friends....."
He laughed into the night air. "I know how you feel about Richard...." He stopped himself. Didn't Lizzy realize what was happening to her? He rubbed his temple and glanced at the woman he had grown up loving. He knew that she was right. She could never be the type of wife he wanted. In a way, she was too distant, too scared of the intimacy required. Perhaps, he was not strong enough to bring it out in her. Her fear enveloped her heart so long ago. Marcus sighed realizing reality was sometimes a bitter, but necessary pill to swallow. He read the pain in her eyes and smiled as best he could. "I just need some time....give me a little time...to accept this...."
She nodded, "Take all the time you need."
He rubbed his arms and nodded toward the doors. "Let's go inside before we turn into pop sickles."
Marcus returned to the ballroom with Elizabeth on his arm and Richard came forward to claim her immediately. "And just where have you two been hiding?"
"We haven't been hiding, Richard." Elizabeth responded watching Marcus walk stiffly away from her. Glancing absently to the dance floor, she saw Charles with Julia. And, directly next to them, Jane with Dennis. She nearly stomped her foot in frustration. This was all Darcy's fault! Her frustration multiplied. She turned to Richard. "Can we talk?"
"Talk?" He asked confused. She gave him best smile hoping it was convincing enough. "Yes, I'm a little tired of dancing....and we need to clear something up...."
He saw for the first time the traces of her tears, "Is this something about Marcus?"
She nodded and he sighed. "Let's go."
"And then I thought you could get a mohawk and dye it bright orange. Because orange is after all my favorite color." Caroline smiled at her boyfriend's distraction.
"That sounds wonderful." Darcy's eyes followed Elizabeth as she left the ballroom with Richard. How does she manage it? To interchange the two men so neatly...
Caroline frowned pondering. "You could always borrow my purple leotards...."
He sipped his drink. Should I tell Marcus that she is leaving with Richard?
"Then, you could borrow my Jane Fonda tape....I noticed that your could use a little work on you abs..." He sipped his punch again. Maybe she was going to break up with Richard? He glanced at Marcus who went immediately to the bar and the expression on that cousin's face leaned to the contrary. So, she has chosen Richard.
"We could then get matching belly button rings....." Did Caroline just say something about a ring? "Caroline, I'm sorry what did you say?"
"Your mother has quite a flare for these things, Darcy." Relief covered his face immediately, but then his eyes scanned the room noting Anne's absence.
Elizabeth pulled the doors to the library shut behind her and turned to face Richard. He smiled at her warmly, "We could go to my room, Lizzy. It is much more private there."
Elizabeth laughed and saw him frown. Somehow with Richard, she always laughed at the wrong times. He looked into her eyes again. "You wanted to tell me about Marcus?" She nodded, but could not figure out a way to begin. Richard offered, "Do you love him?" She moved away from the doors. "I will always love him. Marcus...he was there...he understands things about me......" She floundered not willing to give too many details to her new friend. Richard's face turned white, "Things that I never could."
Elizabeth stiffened at his conjecture. "I didn't say that."
"You didn't have to...." His eyes were almost black as they had been the night after their impromptu basketball game. "There are things that you don't understand about me either, Lizzy. Just give me a chance to show you..." She felt her breath catch as he leaned to kiss her.
Both stepped apart startled by the sound of the door sliding open.
"Richard." Anne's voice sounded very sharp. "I think George has some more guests he wants you to tell about that basketball game...."
Richard looked annoyed at the interruption. "I all ready told his friends all about it..."
"I think he has found some more friends he wants you to share the story with..."
"Aunt." He began to propel his date past her, but she added, "Richard, I wish to speak privately with Elizabeth." He hesitated giving Lizzy an apologetic look before shutting the door behind his retreat.
Anne did not pause a moment before beginning, "Marcus told me you wanted to go home tomorrow." Indeed, Elizabeth was determined to put several state lines between her and Darcy Williams as soon as possible. Darcy had single handedly ruined Jane's chances with Charles. In fact, Darcy had single handedly ruined her entire visit. Hateful, interfering man! But one could not very well tell that to the mother of the man she hated. She answered slowly, "That is true. I wish to leave tomorrow for I feel I have imposed on your hospitality a little too long.."
"And, is Richard going to go with you?" As much as the question annoyed Elizabeth, she was distracted from her anger by the exhaustion in Anne's voice.
"Are you all right, Mrs. Williams?"
"Of course, I'm all right." Her smile was tight. "Answer my question, Elizabeth."
"Why would you assume I was taking Richard home with me?"
"So, you aren't serious about my nephew?" Anne questioned seating herself in front of the fire. Elizabeth bit her lip knowing she had to be diplomatic. "Richard and I just started dating...I think it is a little premature to be introducing him to my parents."
"You introduced Marcus to them." Anne patted the arm chair next to hers indicating Elizabeth to take a seat.
"I never had to introduce my parents to Marcus...they knew him all ready..." Didn't Anne know that she had grown up with her nieces and nephew? Elizabeth was concerned, "Are you sure you are all right, Mrs. Williams? Can I get you something?"
"No. I'm fine." Obviously, there was something that Anne wanted to say so Elizabeth waited. "Why are you leaving tomorrow, Lizzy?"
"I miss my family...."
"All of a sudden? No, there is more to this sudden desire to flee my home. Are you sure this doesn't have something to do with Darcy?" Lizzy's eyes opened wide in shock. "Come now. Miss Bennet, I know what goes on in my own home. Perhaps, there is something I can do...."
"I seriously doubt that..." Elizabeth stopped herself almost wishing she had been born a mute. "I'm sorry, Mrs. Williams. I meant no disrespect."
"I was not offended. There are far too many people who do not tell me the truth, but rather tell me exactly what they think I want to hear. You are a refreshing change."
"Mother?" Darcy poked his head in the library.
"Yes, Darcy." Was it his imagination or did his mother sound frustrated?
"Is everything all right?" As he closed the distance between them, he noticed Anne and Elizabeth were seated in front of the fire talking like two friends.
"Everything is fine. We were just having a little discussion."
Darcy could only wonder what a discussion with his mother entailed. It was one thing for him to be angry with Elizabeth for toying with his cousins' emotions but entirely another to leave her alone unprotected with his mother. He knew how vicious Anne could be at times. He slipped uninvited onto the loveseat. "What were you discussing?"
"If you must know. We were discussing Elizabeth's travel plans. She wishes to return to home tomorrow." He was shocked by the announcement. "You are leaving?"
"Yes, I feel I must." Elizabeth stood misunderstanding his shock for relief, "If you will excuse me, I think I need to find Richard...I haven't had a chance to tell him about my plans to leave." She let her eyes fall on Darcy's ashen face before escaping to the comfort of the ballroom. He stood to follow, but Anne stopped his arm. If she wasn't going to learn what she wanted from their guest, by God she would learn it from her son.
"So, tell me about Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy."
Startled, Jane sat up in her bed. She was a little angry that her dream had been interrupted. She was reliving the kiss Dennis had given her after he escorted her back to her room at the conclusion of the Ball. She couldn't wait to relive the entire night with Elizabeth. Jane leaned back in her bed smiling and was about to drift off again when she heard the noise in the hallway again. Perturbed, she slid from under her covers and threw open her door. Nothing would have prepared her for the sight she beheld. Georgiana had Darcy pinned to the wall. Her little fists landing harmlessly against him as he tried in vain to stop her onslaught.
"Stop that, Georgiana!" Jane's voice startled her cousin. Georgie looked at her apologetically, "Darcy made Lizzy leave....."
"She left?" Jane interrupted. Elizabeth had interrupted her with Dennis and she had cattily told her to wait until morning. Jane looked at Georgie when the child spoke again. "Lizzy told me to tell you goodbye that you two would talk back at school......she said that she wanted to spend some time with her parents...but I know why she really left......" She leveled her blue eyes on her brother again, "Darcy made her go...."
Jane watched as her little cousin ran down the hall with a heavy heart before turning to face Darcy with an accusing glare.
He offered, "I suppose you blame me for her leaving too."
Without an answer, Jane turned back into her room and slammed her door hard.
Anne sipped her morning tea and felt the beginnings of the headache. Excusing herself from the sullen breakfast table, she managed to make it back to her sitting room before the pain became unbearable. She twisted the lid off the medicine bottle and shook the familiar black pills into her hand. She let her eyes rest on Mr. and Mrs. Carrot-Nose. The memory from days earlier invaded her thoughts.
"Lizzy, Mr. Carrot-Nose looks lonely."
"Does he?" Elizabeth asked. "Well, Bug, what should we do about it?"
"Can we make him a wife? My daddy always says that the right woman completes a man..."
"I guess then we will just have to make him a wife. We can't have Mr. C being lonely on New Years."
Anne drew a small heart into the frost on the window pane. How about my family? Will you be able to make them happy, Lizzy? Anne felt the nausea sweep through her quickly. Moments later, she flushed the contents of her breakfast feeling weak and dizzy. Leaning against the cold tile of her bathroom floor, she tried desperately to hold on to consciousness.