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Chapter Eleven: The Storm Breaks

Posted on Sunday, 10 March 2002

Before the dinner the next evening, however, Bingley had to confront Darcy with his suspicions. Bingley was of an easy temper and did not naturally hold grudges, but the obvious pain that his beloved Jane had gone through made him quite angry. And twice today people had intimated that Darcy held some blame for this pain.

Finding Darcy was going to be a problem, since he had taken to hiding in the oddest places. It was common for the Colonel and Bingley to not see him until dinner each night. But Bingley was determined.

Entering Rosings Park, Bingley asked a servant to find Darcy and tell him to meet Mr. Bingley in the library. Bingley usually did not occupy the library, but he knew most other people did not either, and so he was guaranteed a bit of privacy. The servant looked in astonishment at the steel in the typically easy going gentleman, and set off to find Lady Catherine's nephew.

Bingley strode into the fireplace without looking, reciting in his head all that he had heard today. Trying not to concentrate on the fact that he had Miss Elizabeth's assurances that Jane loved him. He could not afford to be distracted. So he paced- there was nothing else to be done whilst waiting for Darcy.

"Now I know why Colonel Fitzwilliam always laughs to see me pacing- it quite gives away that there is something disturbing you. Come, Bingley, sit down here, pour yourself some brandy and tell me what's on your mind."

Bingley turned around to see Darcy comfortably seated with a book.

"So this is where you have been hiding the last few days Darcy." Bingley took a glass and filled it, coming to sit down in the opposite chair.

"I would hardly call it hiding!"

"I would, and the Colonel certainly does. Hiding from what has been a source of amusement I must say." Bingley could not help laughing. 'After all, I could be wrong. He could have done it with my interests in mind. But that does not excuse him! What right did he have? What justification can he offer?'

Darcy hoped that their speculations had nothing to do with a certain friend of the parson's wife. "And what pray were the results?"

"Oh, we had not come to a conclusion. We thought at first that you had developed a dislike for fresh air, but that was thrown out when we saw you gallop away into the park early every morning. We next thought that you were avoiding certain company (Darcy squirmed in his chair), but we both knew that you were too gentlemanly to dislike Mr. Collins (Darcy's laugh at this was a little forced). So we settled on the fact that you are crazy, since you hide from Lady Catherine, but are available for her to find you at any time."

They both smiled at each other, until Bingley remembered his reasons for seeking Darcy out.

Clearing his throat, Bingley started.

"Do you remember Miss Jane Bennet?"

Darcy shot Bingley a look filled with apprehensions. 'Why is he bringing this up? I thought it was buried and gone! Not with Miss Elizabeth here though! What has she been telling him?'

"Err, yes, she was very ... elegant."

"And do you remember why you told me to leave Hertfordshire, and her society?"

"I didn't tell you to do anything, Bingley! I merely recommended that you should re-think her suitability as a wife."

Bingley did not remember it quite that way, but let it pass.

"And what, pray, were your reasons for Miss Bennet's unsuitability?"

"Well, Bingley, your sisters and I both agreed that she did not seem to return your affection with equal ardour." Darcy was becoming quite uncomfortable.

"Oh my sisters- do not bring them into this. I would not have listened to Caroline's prattles if they were not backed up by you."

Bingley paused for a breath here, to see how Darcy had taken it. He took it quite calmly, realising that he was solely to blame ('well, not blame, I didn't do anything wrong now did I?').

"And so you are telling me that if she had shown her affection for me more clearly, you would not have opposed the match?" This was the crux. Bingley hoped that his friend would say yes to this. He hoped that Darcy was not the sort of friend who looked out for his own interests and imposed his opinions for a reason to control and dominate.

Bingley was disappointed.

"No! Even if Miss Bennet had shown her affections for you, who could say that they were her true feelings, and not her mother's wish for her daughter to make a handsome conquest?"

Bingley shook his head sadly.

"Mrs. Bennet is, I grant you, a bit ... enthusiastic in seeing to her daughter's welfare, but I could not imagine Miss Jane Bennet to be bullied into liking a man she had no feelings for. I say that she did like me. I say that she loved me- and that she loves me still. What have you to defend yourself with now?" Bingley was fighting to control his anger.

"Nothing that you could possibly understand Bingley!" Darcy was quite annoyed with this whole conversation. Why was it important to drag up the past? Bingley could have quite forgotten this whole Hertfordshire business if left to himself. 'It is all Elizabeth Bennet's fault'

"I would also caution you to believe what a loving sister has to say about Jane Bennet. She could be found guilty of the same reasoning as her mother."

"I do not believe you think that Elizabeth Bennet could be quite that bad!"

"Well, no Bingley, I don't but..."

"No buts! This has nothing to do with Miss Elizabeth! I did ask her what her sister's feelings for me were, but she did not plot to entrap me! I asked Elizabeth because even after more than three months, I am still hopelessly in love with Jane! I always thought that Jane returned my affections. It is true she does not show her likes and dislikes quite so openly as Elizabeth, but having spent a majority of my time with her, and you hardly spent any time with her, I thought that she loved me! My question to you is, if you had known that Jane Bennet did feel for me as strongly as I did for her, would you have still tried to remove me from her?"

Darcy was a bit shocked at all this strong emotional talking. He could see that Bingley was quite impassioned. 'To the H--- with it all! I'm not going to pander to him anymore. I shall tell all and see if that will not convince him that she is beneath him.'

"You cannot declare Miss Jane Bennet as having such pure intentions. Why, we had not quitted Netherfield a month when Jane Bennet was in London visiting your sisters! I still..."

"Visiting my sisters?! So you knew about this too? Pray what day was it that she visited? Did you discuss it with Caroline and set up a wonderful outing for me so that I would be out of the way?" Bingley was yelling at this point. He could not believe his friend had been so low.

"Caroline and I thought it was for the best! You are unaware of other reasons that two people marry. They are so beneath you in situation, they are poor! Her mother would have done anything and everything in her power to get you two together. Mark my words for it, Bingley; she would not have flung her daughter at you if you had been poor. Mrs. Bennet is a conniving, calculating woman who..."

"Who looks out for what is best for her daughters!" Bingley shouted Darcy down. "How can you call her calculating and conniving when you yourself, along with Caroline, have calculated how to get me out of the way, how you have discussed my life and sorted it out to be the best for yourselves. To trust Caroline's unbiased opinions over Mrs. Bennet's is absolutely stupid! I have blushed so many times for Caroline's obvious flaunting herself towards you, knowing that you would not be interested, or could not be interested in such a cold woman. I was wrong! I can see Caroline has you wound around her little finger! I once remember you slyly wounding my sister by saying that any sort of artifice is abhorrent to you! You should abhor yourself for what you have done! You have stooped just as much as Mrs. Bennet in trying to run other people's lives. Lower, for you do not have her excuse for looking out for her loved daughter. And you must admit that Mrs. Bennet, for all her faults does love her daughters. She has looked after them and cared for them as befits a gentleman's daughters." Bingley was in a passion. Darcy just sat there flinching at Bingley's words.

"And don't you dare speak to me of Jane Bennet being too beneath me! What is she? Mr. Bennet may be poor, but he is a gentleman. What am I? I am a tradesman's son. Sure I have lots of money now, and they have none, but marriage is supposed to be beneficial for both persons (if you look at it without the idea of love). It would be a happiness to take my Jane from her poverty (and they are not that poor Darcy!) and give her everything that I own! To be able to shower her with little gifts and comfort her for the rest of our lives is worth more than marrying a woman who is used to getting her own way and spending as much as she chooses. Indeed, Jane Bennet is my superior in rank, if not in fortune."

Darcy tried to cut in.

"No, I am not finished with your reasons!" Bingley was pouring all his frustration, all his bitterness and sadness at his friend's conduct. "Mrs. Bennet is, I grant you, somewhat less than refined, and she has relations in trade. What better for a tradesman's son? And I am still a tradesman- I still carry on my father's business. A less active role, but taken in a literal sense, I am a tradesman. Is that not clear by the way your Aunt, the esteemed Lady Catherine De Bourgh treats me? I would much rather spend one month in Mrs. Bennet's company than one week in your Aunts. Mrs. Bennet overflows in compliments and considerations whilst Lady Catherine overflows with pride, arrogance and the selfish disdain for others. I am sorry Darcy you are in the wrong. I was a blind puppy to think that you were better than Lady Catherine or my sister. You are a true nephew to the exalted Lady Catherine, and a perfect suitor for my sister Caroline."

With that, Bingley stormed out the door.

Chapter Twelve: Darcy's Reflections

Posted on Sunday, 10 March 2002

Darcy sat in the library shell-shocked. Never had he seen Bingley in such a rage. It was something Darcy hoped never to see again. Darcy was past his anger. He was devastated by Bingley's accusations that he was exactly like Lady Catherine. He had never approved of the way his Aunt carried on, and was forever embarrassed at her condescending ways.

Darcy stood up and paced, trying to clear his mind of Bingley's voice in anger saying that he should marry Caroline- that they suited each other. Darcy had never liked Caroline, and had only put up with her for the sake of his friend.

'Let's go through this one at a time.' Darcy mused as he poured himself a brandy.

'Item one: Jane Bennet, despite her expressions loves Bingley.' Darcy could not refute Elizabeth's word regarding this. Despite what he had intimated, he knew that Elizabeth could not be quite so mercenary as her mother. He also knew the very strong relationship between Jane and Elizabeth, (did she not walk three miles through mud to nurse her?) therefore Elizabeth would know her sister's feelings.

'Conclusion: I was wrong.'

Darcy sighed. His wonderful cover for his other, more material considerations was gone. 'Now to these material considerations.'

'Item two: Jane Bennet is beneath Bingley.' Bingley is a tradesman's son. Jane is a gentlewoman. In breeding, Jane is superior to Bingley. 'Or is it the fact that you saw, not that Jane was beneath Bingley, but that Elizabeth was beneath you?' whispered his conscience. "No!" Darcy yelled aloud. "This has nothing to do with my situation!"

Clearing his thoughts, 'Conclusion: I was wrong.'

'Item Three: Jane Bennet is poor.' This was true. But was it immaterial? Bingley himself thought so, what should it matter to his friend? His cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam being the second son, was also considered poor. Did Darcy not wish that his cousin married well? Colonel Fitzwilliam was certainly a gentleman and had a noble connection on his side, but then could not Jane Bennet be seen as having good connections? Could Mr. Bennet, or his father, or his grandfather, not have been a second son? 'No, we just looked to Mrs. Bennet's relations. Mr. Bennet could have married Mrs. Bennet because she was rich, even though she was a tradesman's daughter.' Another sigh. 'Conclusion: I was wrong.'

'Item Four: Mrs. Bennet (along with other members of the family) displays vulgar breeding.' Surely this was true. But was it important? 'Surely the conduct of a family member should not damage the ability to marry?' Georgiana's conduct was hardly complimentary, and yet Darcy would have hoped that if it ever got out, it would not mean she would have to spend the rest of her days a spinster. Darcy knew the conduct of his Aunt was often bordering on the uncivil, and that Colonel Fitzwilliam's older brother was quite a rake. 'I would be hate to be judged on the basis of anything other than my own conduct. And Jane Bennet, and Elizabeth, were very refined and genteel. They were the perfect gentlewoman- not haughty or proud, but charming and sweet, and affectionate. Therefore, conclusion: I was wrong.'

Things were not looking good for Darcy.

'Lastly, Item Five: I was an indifferent, unbiased observer.' Darcy paused here. He did not wish to delve into this reason further. There was no need, he believed that Bingley was right, and he was wrong. Unfortunately for Darcy, he had never been anything but thorough, and therefore did look into his motivations behind separating Bingley from Miss Bennet. His thoughts that he did not wish to see his friend trapped into a loveless, unequal marriage were justified. 'But was my emphasis on unequal biasing my other viewpoints? From the above reflections, I must conclude that they did cloud my judgment. She may have hid her feelings, but so do I. Does this mean that I do not feel? The question may beg, why was I officiating in the first place? Colonel Fitzwilliam has often told me to leave Bingley alone and let him make his own decisions. Is it the thrill of power over my fellow human beings? Of exercising control and fitting everything neatly in my own plan? Is this not pride, presumption? Are they not faults, feelings that people strive to overcome?' Nodding to himself, Darcy realised that he was right. He was not looking out for Bingley, but his own sense of security.

'What were my reasons then?'

'You love Elizabeth Bennet and could not bear the thought of not being able to marry her.'

Darcy shook his head furiously at this thought. "No, it's not true!" But as he murmured these words, he realised their validity.

'I am in love with Elizabeth. Beautiful, witty, charming Elizabeth. Elizabeth Bennet who is a nobody- a country Miss who knows nothing of being mistress of an estate such as Pemberley. I separated Bingley from Jane Bennet in an attempt to be away from Elizabeth and her intoxicating ways. Hoping that Elizabeth would never know the power she had over me, so she could not entice me to degrade myself by marrying her.'

'"...she does not show her likes and dislikes quite so openly as Elizabeth"' Bingley's words reverberated through Darcy's mind. 'Has she ever shown her like of me or have I been blind in that regard as well? Did I imagine that she must be in love with me, at least for my wealth? Do I really think her capable of being mercenary? Not she, she is honest and says exactly what she thinks. She is not a siren who lures men with her song. She never sang for me.' Darcy was humbled at the thought that Elizabeth did not like him as desperately as he loved her. But this was not the only problem with his previous statement.

'Was it a degradation for him to marry her? I have already admitted that Jane Bennet was above Bingley's station in society. Her mother's relations would be beneath me, but I am not marrying the mother, nor are my relations spotless. She is poor, but like Bingley, I would love to shower Elizabeth with gold. Conclusion: Bingley is right. Elizabeth would be just as much a suitable wife for me, as Miss Bennet would be for Bingley.'

Darcy swallowed the last of the brandy. 'It is time I mended my ways. Now where could Bingley be?'

Chapter Thirteen: Reconcilement and Favours

Posted on Sunday, 10 March 2002

Whilst Darcy was searching for Bingley, Charlotte Collins had drawn Lizzy aside for a talk.

"Lizzy, my dear, tell me what you think of Miss Anne De Bourgh." Charlotte began, motioning Lizzy to sit beside her.

"Anne De Bourgh?" Lizzy was puzzled. "I must confess, Charlotte, I had not really thought of her at all. Why? Whatever is the matter?"

"Oh no reason. I just suppose that she must get quite lonely without any female companionship."

"Female companionship?" Lizzy laughed, "Why she has her mother and her companion to keep her company. Not to mention her cousins are here now. One of them especially must be quite dear to her."

Charlotte looked a little puzzled at this. "Whoever could you mean?"

"Why Charlotte! Has your husband not told you of the great honour bestowed upon Mr. Darcy by Lady Catherine? She intends him to marry Anne."

"Mr. Darcy is to marry Anne?" Charlotte looked astonished. "No, it cannot be so. He does not act at all attached. I have said this before Lizzy, but he treats you with much more feeling than he does his cousin."

Lizzy blushed at this, but said nothing. This confused Charlotte more. Usually Lizzy was quick to laugh this off, or at least be offended at the idea. But she blushed. What could this mean?

"But I have gone off track again, dear Lizzy. I was just wondering what your opinions of Anne were. I must admit to feeling sympathy and pity for her. Her mother is not much of a companion and Mrs. Jenkinson is in so much awe of the mother she does nothing for the daughter. I was wondering if tomorrow night you might try to converse with her. You have always been more at ease with strangers and can coax them into opening up with you. I would value your opinion Lizzy." Charlotte looked imploringly at Elizabeth.

Of course, she could not refuse this, and said so.

Charlotte looked relieved and gave Lizzy a quick hug. As she was moving towards the door, Lizzy decided to ask Charlotte something that had been worrying her for some time.

"Charlotte, before you go, could you please tell me what your opinion of Mr. Wickham was?"

Charlotte turned around in surprise. Was there something more than friendship between Mr. Wickham and her friend?

"Of course, if you ask me." So she resumed her seat and continued, "He seemed a very agreeable man, quite like you- at ease with strangers and willing to talk to them about anything."

"I told you of what he imparted with me when we met at my Aunt's house for cards. Do you think it was very wrong of him to tell me so much when we had only just met?"

"I believe Lizzy, and I know it might pain you to hear it, that he is a little too agreeable, if you take my meaning. Men who are that agreeable usually turn out to be not quite decent. He was charming and knew all the correct words to say, but this does not always mean that his character is as correct. Compare him with someone like Mr. Darcy (Lizzy started at this)- Wickham was universally liked as much as Mr. Darcy was disliked."

"I do not understand what any of this has to do with Mr. Darcy" Lizzy started angrily.

"But dear, do you not see that Wickham's information regarding Mr. Darcy could have played a part in this? Indeed, would everyone's opinions be quite so hostile towards him if Wickham's woes were not disclosed? Would Mr. Wickham be praised for being the darling of the regiment if he did not carry such information as to reaffirm their hasty dislike of Mr. Darcy? Would you have thought so little of Mr. Darcy if Wickham had never spoken to you?"

Lizzy did not like the way this conversation was going. She had just wanted to compare Charlotte's views to her own. Elizabeth relied on Charlotte's judgment, and this subject was one of the only times they had disagreed. What Charlotte was saying was too close to what she had been thinking last night. 'Could I be convinced to think ill of someone simply by someone else's account, and on account of my own hurt pride? No! The whole neighbourhood disliked Mr. Darcy just as much. He had already shown how horridly proud he was on a number of occasions.'

But when she said this to Charlotte, Charlotte merely laughed and asked whether his proud behaviour could have been the result of reserve and feeling uncomfortable in a place where all the mamma's were whispering about ten thousand pounds a year?

Elizabeth had never thought of it from Mr. Darcy's viewpoint before, and had to admit that if she was in a similar situation she may have felt tempted to react in the same situation.

Charlotte, seeing that Elizabeth had enough to think about, left her, asking her to think about Mr. Darcy and what she had said about Miss De Bourgh. Elizabeth sat there lost in thought.

"Bingley!" Darcy yelled to his friend as he was disappearing into the manicured park outside of Rosings.

If Bingley heard, he gave no indication as he went on further into the hedges.

"Bingley!" Darcy yelled a bit louder, running after him.

When he did catch up to him, Bingley was seated against a tree trunk with his head bowed. Darcy stopped in front of him and laid a hand on his shoulder.

"Bingley."

He waited until Bingley's head rose to meet his. Darcy sat beside him.

"Bingley, I am heartily ashamed of myself." Darcy sighed.

Bingley looked up in astonishment. He had never thought that Darcy would listen to a silly fellow like himself.

Motioning Bingley to keep quiet, Darcy went on to say how wrong he had been, and how justified Bingley was for his anger towards him.

"You trusted me and relied on me like a friend, and I repaid that friendship with dishonesty and manipulated you for my own desires. Bingley, I fear I have not been honest with myself. I had avowed that Jane Bennet did not love you, not because I paid close attention to her, but because I did not want you to marry her. Part of this was because I was too proud to see her family as anything but poor and mercenary, but another part was because I was hoping to separate myself from an unworthy attraction."

"Attraction? Darcy, do not tell me you were in love with Jane also?" Bingley's eyes widened in shock, and then disappointment at the thought of losing Jane to someone who was socially better off than himself.

Darcy laughed. "No Bingley, Jane Bennet was a sweet lady, but you are safe from me on that score." He paused and drew a deep breath. "I found my interest in Elizabeth Bennet too much. I knew that I was in danger of falling in love with her, and degrading my family by marrying her."

"Degrading your family? Darcy, I cannot believe you still speak so!"

"No, Bingley, I do not believe so anymore, I was merely stating how I saw it three months ago. Now, well, Bingley old chap, I find that you were, are, quite correct in your assessment of the Bennet situation and I would be honoured to try and win her love. I know you will not want to call me a friend anymore, but I wanted to apologise to you Bingley. I have caused you much heartache, and if your account of Miss Bennet is any indication, Jane as well."

As Darcy was about to leave, Bingley rose, and stayed him with a hand.

"Darcy, I can easily forgive you. Although you say your intentions were not quite so pure, I am willing to believe that you did it all with the best of intentions towards me. You have always been my friend; indeed, you shall always be my friend. Except if you should become something a bit more closer- a brother perhaps? Come man, I was a bit harsh on you just now, and am sorry."

"You have no reason to apologise Bingley," Darcy was amazed at how forgiving and kind Bingley was. "I behaved unpardonably, and can only thank you for showing me the error of my ways. Imagine if I had spoken so to Miss Elizabeth Bennet! I am sure she could not have been half so understanding and forgiving!"

Both men chuckled at the thought, their friendship mended.

On the journey back to the house, Colonel Fitzwilliam joined them. Noticing that Darcy was more at ease with Bingley than he had been for months, Colonel Fitzwilliam hoped that they had discussed their differences and had come to an understanding.

All three of them walked in loudly joking about some incident that had happened at a fashionable event in London two months ago. Lady Catherine saw them approach and was most unhappy at the lack of seriousness displayed by gentlemen. Mr. Bingley, it could be tolerated- he was not quite the gentleman to begin with. She frowned at Colonel Fitzwilliam, although admitting that he generally was a bit too giddy for her to stomach above the yearly visits. But Darcy! Darcy should not be smiling quite so widely, especially with Anne being absent. Indeed this was quite vexing, until a thought entered her mind at the sight of Mr. Bingley's silly grin. 'Perhaps he had shared with them the news of his engagement to Elizabeth Bennet, and they are all congratulating him? He should not have told them before gaining the blessing of her father, but Mr. Bingley is probably not aware of what is becoming of a gentleman in these circumstances.' With that thought, Lady Catherine managed to adopt a polite smile and inquired what they had been up to all day.

Chapter Fourteen: The Big Dinner- Before

Posted on Sunday, 10 March 2002

Darcy was quite pleased with himself as he prepared for dinner the next day. His friendship with Bingley had never been quite as close as it had since they had been reconciled. The day had been spent pleasantly riding in the fields and lunching near a river. Colonel Fitzwilliam and he had taken great delight in ribbing Bingley about his forthcoming marriage and leaving bachelorhood behind. Bingley had worn his silly grin since waking up this morning, and would no doubt sleep with it in bed tonight. Bingley had spoken so much on the virtues of Jane Bennet that Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy had nearly thrown him into the river. This resulted in Bingley and Fitzwilliam pairing up against Darcy and tortured him about fine eyes and lively wit. Darcy had laughed along with them however, not taking offence. All in all, it had been a wonderful day- the only thing that could have made it better was to have Elizabeth by his side, joining in with the jokes.

'But I am seeing Elizabeth tonight, which must satisfy me until I can make her my own.' Darcy smiled to himself as he paid special care to his toilette. 'I must take care to measure her reaction tonight however. I have grossly misjudged on sister's regard, it is possible that I have misjudged Elizabeth's natural liveliness for a deeper regard. I mean she was certainly lively around Fitzwilliam, and I would hate to think she was in love with him.'

Darcy had resolved to study Elizabeth tonight. Not an unpleasant task really, but one which was necessary if he was to understand her feelings towards himself.

"Try to talk to her cousin!" Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed later on in the night when they were preparing for Mr. Collins and his party to arrive. "That is the best way to gauge a lady's feelings."

"That is, if I can talk to her at all with you monopolising her attentions!" Darcy tried to keep this light, but could not help feeling a little jealous of his cousin's ease with people.

The Colonel laughed. "Well, you will have no competition from Bingley. Look at him! Staring into space with the stupidest grin on his face! I would be surprised if he notices anything or anyone at all tonight!"

Said gentleman was trying to recapture the gentle expression in his beloved's eyes when they had danced together at the Netherfield Ball. Bingley was looking forward to tonight. He was determined to see if there was much similarity between Elizabeth and Jane.

Ignored by the gentleman on the sofa, Anne De Bourgh sat quietly. She hoped that her mother would forget her tonight and pay all her attentions towards Mr. Collins, leaving Mrs. Collins the ability to talk with her. Anne was quite fond of Mrs. Collins and could not understand how excellent a woman could bind herself to Mr. Collins for life. She looked over towards her cousins, noticing their playful banter. Why could they not include her in their conversation? Anne was desperate for someone to take notice of her and show some interest in her. She had never seen Darcy quite so at ease in her mother's society, and hoped that he had formed an attachment to Miss Bennet. Anyone who saw the way that he looked at her would know that he loved her. She was hoping that this would mean the threat of her marriage to him would forever be removed. As much as she had enjoyed Fitzwilliam's companionship when they were little, he had grown into such a serious man who sometimes reminded her too much of her mother. Colonel Fitzwilliam however was quite a different matter. She would enjoy his smiles to be directed more at her person.

Lady Catherine was unaware of everyone's thoughts, which was lucky for her because she would have been at a loss to account for their feelings regarding her irksome society. Darcy and the Colonel's behaviour were still on the happy side, which was a perplexing idea- one that she could not account for. The idea that they were looking forward to the society of her guests was something that had not entered her mind. She hoped that Anne would not sneeze during dinner- it was most annoying and unladylike. She reminded herself to ask Mrs. Jenkinson to increase her daughter's dose of the new drug the doctor had recommended. Mr. Bingley was another source of irritation. He seemed to be enjoying his visit despite her attempts to snub him by not paying him any attention. Her only relief, as she stood up to greet the guests when they were announced was that his silly grin led her to believe he had come to an understanding with Miss Bennet. She would do everything she could to encourage them into intimate conversation. Lady Catherine would be happy with no less than a declaration tonight. This would ensure the safety of Colonel Fitzwilliam from that sniveling country wench.

On the walk to Rosings Park (they had to walk, since the thought of her Ladyship sending the carriages to pick them up as well as be expected to drive them home was too much for Mr. Collins to bear), Mr. Collins was composing a suitable speech for Her Ladyship whilst doing his best to instill into Maria the great condescension of Lady Catherine in inviting them for the sixth time to dine at Rosings Park. The thought of Lady Catherine's kind behaviour sent Mr. Collins into a frenzy of admiration, and he was determined that a speech of no less than five minutes was necessary to convey all the delight felt by such a grand occasion as a dinner with Lady Catherine De Bourgh.

Maria was only half listening to her brother in law as she tried to appear as calm and collected as Elizabeth. Maria was quite nervous. Being only seventeen, she was not quite used to such grand surroundings or society. She was also having a hard time trying to reconcile her feelings of not wanting to become used to such society, with the ideas of her brother in law, who seemed to think society nothing, if not equal to Lady Catherine De Bourgh. If anyone had bothered to ask Maria's opinion, she would have preferred not to go at all, but since no one had thought to, she went.

The other two ladies had no difficulties ignoring Mr. Collins, as they were both engrossed in their own thoughts. Charlotte was hoping to continue to draw Anne De Bourgh out, as well as see the interactions of the young men with her friend.

Elizabeth was curious to find out more about Miss De Bourgh since her talk with Charlotte last night. The other half of her conversation with Charlotte was another cause for her deep contemplation. Since then, Elizabeth had decided that she might have judged Mr. Darcy harshly since his unsociable behaviour at the assembly in Meryton. Knowing the regard Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Bingley held for Darcy, and the half hints by the Colonel at his wonderful care of his sister, she was beginning to doubt Mr. Wickham's tale. The fact that Charlotte did not think as highly of Wickham, and that her Aunt had warned her not to judge him too favourably, all added to her wish to view Mr. Darcy in a new light. Any time away from Mr. Collins and in the society of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Bingley was also an added relief, and quite outweighed any concern she might have had regarding Lady Catherine and her remarks.

By the time they were announced into the Drawing room, everyone was determined to make the best of the evening, all except one, hoped to spend as little time in the hostess' company as was possible.

Chapter Fifteen: The Big Dinner - During

Posted on Sunday, 10 March 2002

There was not time for anything more than the usual pleasantries before dinner was announced. Lady Catherine had taken into consideration who was to bring whom in, and so Darcy was to escort herself in, leaving a happy Anne walking in with Colonel Fitzwilliam. Mr. and Mrs. Collins came next, followed by Mr. Bingley escorting Elizabeth and Maria on each arm. Mrs. Jenkinson walked in by herself.

The sitting arrangements fared no better for Darcy as he was placed at one end, and Elizabeth at the other, at such an awkward angle that he could not even spend his time gazing at her. Elizabeth was as disappointed as she was relieved in not being able to speak to Mr. Darcy, so she contented herself with speaking with Maria, who spoke little, and Mr. Bingley, who also spoke little. Lady Catherine observed however that he was constantly looking at her, and was quite pleased. What she did not know was that Bingley was gazing in delight at Elizabeth because he had found that Elizabeth shared a common jaw line with Jane, as well as the shape and turn of their noses.

Mr. Collins was unable to relay his raptures to his hostess as she was not situated next to himself, but his wife was quite happy at being able to converse with Anne, although not as much as she would have liked. This was due to the fact that Anne was always dull with her mother around so as not to excite her mother's suspicion that she would ever have a thought without Lady Catherine's approval.

Colonel Fitzwilliam, despite being seated away from Miss Bennet, had a delightful time speaking to his cousins. He found that Anne was looking quite pretty in the candlelight and the way her eyes lit up with pleasure when Mrs. Collins remarked on how well her hair looked made him take more notice of his pale, usually limp cousin. With this distraction, the Colonel quite forgot his determination to scrutinize his cousin's and Elizabeth's feelings for each other. 'At any rate, they are both adults and could look after themselves!'

After dinner was had, the seating arrangements changed slightly for the better. Elizabeth approached Anne and the Colonel, aware of Charlotte's wish for her to become better acquainted with her. The fact that the Colonel was there was also a nice addition in Lizzy's mind.

Bingley was content to watch everything around him, happily preparing a certain speech for his Jane's hearing only.

Darcy was not quite so content as Bingley and looked at his cousin and his Elizabeth conversing animatedly. Knowing his cousin's remarks early on in the evening, Darcy was struggling to overcome his nervousness and shyness, and approach Elizabeth. Just as he was getting up to do so, however he realised that he knew of no topic he could converse easily with her. Discussing her family was out of the picture, books and poetry he had already learnt in Hertfordshire were taboo, which left nothing! Wracking his brain for ideas, he failed to realise that by approaching the happy trio, he could have quite easily found conversation amongst their discussions of the latest music.

Elizabeth was pleasantly surprised with Anne's knowledge of the topic and commented how unfortunate it was that Miss De Bourgh had never learnt to play the piano. As much as Elizabeth cringed at how familiar this was to another Lady's opinion, she admitted that Lady Catherine De Bourgh could be correct in some of her judgments.

"Miss De Bourgh, I had never realised how thorough your knowledge was on the latest music in London! I am surprised that you do not play the pianoforte. You show such natural understanding of execution and feeling."

Anne blushed slightly at this praise (almost the first of it's kind) and continued to admire this young woman. Looking quickly to notice that her mother was not looking her way, nor within hearing distance, she quietly stated that her mother's worry over her health was the reason that she never learnt.

This could not hide the longing in her voice. She had often heard the Richard and Fitzwilliam comment on how accomplished Georgiana was at the pianoforte, and was often jealous that her mother's love for her was not the kind that promoted self-development, but rather dampened it.

Another person was equally surprised by his cousin's hidden talent. Colonel Fitzwilliam was continually astonished throughout this evenings dinner that he decided that he should spent more time with his cousin and learn all of her little accomplishments.

"But this will not do at all Anne!" he began, "I had not known you enjoyed music this much, or had such an inclination for it, but if Miss Bennet here says you show talent, and since her playing is quite delightful, I am determined to see that you do start to learn how! Surely Mrs. Jenkinson knows how to play the pianoforte. Could you not ask her to show you?"

Looking down, Anne confessed "Mrs. Jenkinson might know how to play the pianoforte, I have never asked, since she would not dare to cross Mother in this subject. Indeed in any subject." Anne could not stop a little hint of bitterness from creeping into her voice.

Elizabeth looked truly concerned for Anne. She was proving her first impression wrong. Elizabeth had thought that Anne De Bourgh was a little, sick version of her mother, but a short conversation with Anne had shown Elizabeth how wrong she was to have judged her prematurely. 'Could I be as wrong with Mr. Darcy as I was with Anne?' Looking at the subject of her thoughts, she encountered a pair of dark eyes looking at her. Blushing slightly, she cast her eyes down, confused as to the meaning of him looking at her so often. At first she had thought it disapproval, but thinking logically, Lizzy realised that someone who despised another person would not look quite so much at the subject, or quite so intensely. She had never noticed how Mr. Darcy's eyes held a world behind his indifferent façade. Elizabeth was intrigued as to what went on in the world behind the face.

Colonel Fitzwilliam saw the look exchanged between the two, and thought that Miss Bennet at last was thinking differently of his cousin. He saw that she was working through some of her former opinions, and confirmed his idea that she had previously held a low opinion of Darcy.

Anne was taking this lull in conversation to sneak a look at her fair cousin (no, not Darcy!), and followed his eyes from Fitzwilliam to Elizabeth. Surely there was something going on between Miss Bennet and he? Miss Bennet did not look quite as affected as her cousin was, but she was determined to take her own future into her hands, and make sure they did not include a life at Pemberley with Fitzwilliam Darcy.

"Miss Bennet?" Anne began, "is there something wrong? You looked quite flushed for a moment."

Blushing a bit with the realization that another two pairs of eyes had been watching her, she decided that she liked Anne De Bourgh. She applied more subtlety than her mother, and a good deal more consideration.

"Miss De Bourgh, please call me Elizabeth. I cannot help but think that my sister is Miss Bennet, and it usually takes me a while to realise that I am being addressed as such."

Both ladies shared a smile.

"Elizabeth. Yes, I like that name quite a lot. Please call me Anne. Let me express how grateful I am that you have spoken with me tonight. I had feared that I would be spending it in my room, having been dismissed by my mother. And yet here I am, pleasantly entertained by you." Taking a deeper breath, not being quite used to speaking so much in one go, Anne smiled a bit shakily.

"Oh Anne, I would be honoured to address you as such. Please accept my apologies at having only spoken with you tonight. It was very remiss of me to not talk to you at our engagements here over the past month. All I can say in my defense is that I have suffered from the lack of your conversation and knowledge. I am sure you could give me some pointers on improving my performance on the pianoforte." Elizabeth was truly ashamed at her lack of regard for this astonishing young woman.

Anne's eyes glowed with pleasure at being addressed in such a manner (and Colonel Fitzwilliam found it a bit hard to swallow- Elizabeth never had quite this affect on him).

"I am sure you are jesting with me. Both my cousins, Fitzwilliam in particular, have praised your abilities so highly as to doubt you needing any improvement whatsoever."

"Oh I am sure the Colonel was simply teasing you, Anne!"

Anne looked confused. Then she remembered that Fitzwilliam could imply Darcy or the Colonel. Seeing a chance to turn Miss Bennet back to Darcy, she shyly said that Fitzwilliam was her cousin, Mr. Darcy's first name.

"Oh" was all that Elizabeth managed.

Charlotte, who had monitored the situation closely, chose that moment to come over and turn the subject to safer topics.

Lady Catherine, noticing that all but Mr. Collins, Mr. Bingley and Maria Lucas were concentrated around Colonel Fitzwilliam and Miss Bennet, decided that she had to push Mr. Bingley a bit to get a definite confirmation of their engagement.

"Mr. Bingley! (Bingley jerked out of his pleasant daydream) I see you are not with the other young people. It may be that a walk out doors would be more congenial with you. Perhaps Miss Bennet would accompany you? A little walk outside would be quite the thing for both of you."

"I, err ... thank you Lady Catherine. Miss Bennet, would you like to take a turn outside?"

Bingley approached Elizabeth with a smile. It was another chance to talk to her about her sister.

"Oh but surely Aunt, there are other who would enjoy a stroll outside just as much. Perhaps Darcy and Anne, and Mrs. Collins and her sister would enjoy some fresh air?" Colonel Fitzwilliam knew that Darcy wanted to speak with Elizabeth, and saw this as a perfect opportunity to get him involved. The thoughts of escorting Anne outside were not unpleasant either.

Lady Catherine did not like this proposal. How was a man to declare his love (if he had not already) with other people tagging along?

"I do not think it will suit Anne at all Fitzwilliam. Indeed she is looking a bit flushed, Mrs. Jenkinson why have you not noticed this? Anne go to bed, you are not well."

Mrs. Jenkinson, almost in fear for her life, hurriedly found Miss Anne's shawl and wrapped it around her, gently pushing the reluctant girl out of the room.

"Goodnight Anne" Elizabeth smiled in sympathy.

"Yes, goodnight, Elizabeth. Perhaps you would care to visit me tomorrow afternoon sometime?" Anne responded timidly. She was unused to issuing invitations.

"Of course, I shall be delighted to." And Elizabeth was surprised that she really meant it.

"Thank you." Smiled a delighted Anne. "Goodnight Mother, Fitzwilliam, Mrs. Collins, Richard."

With the departure of Anne, went any thoughts of going outside, much to the annoyance of Lady Catherine. But since she did not wish her nephews to go outside with Miss Bennet and Mr. Bingley, she did not broach the subject again.

Charlotte was quite satisfied with tonight's events. She had seen further symptoms of Mr. Darcy's regard for her friend, and had glimpsed more of Anne's nature when she was speaking to Lizzy. Sensing that Lady Catherine was quite annoyed, she decided that it was time to go. Giving a gentle hint to her husband, who almost did not understand, she said goodnight.

Maria followed her sister's example and bade a good evening to everyone. Elizabeth smiled and curtseyed to all, especially in the direction of a certain gentleman. The knowledge of Mr. Darcy having praised her skills to his cousin, had erased his former criticism of her handsomeness, and she wished she had had more time to talk with him.

Mr. Collins took a full ten minutes to express how delighted he was with the evening and to thank his most wonderful patroness for her condescension.

After the party left, the gentleman lost no time in declaring how tired they were and bade Lady Catherine a good night also.

Chapter Sixteen: The Big Dinner- Aftermath

Posted on Sunday, 17 March 2002

Waking up later than usual after last night's dinner, Elizabeth quickly escaped for her morning walk. Cutting through the parsonage's apple grove, Lizzy immersed herself in all the beauty that Rosings Park was. 'No matter the owner,' she thought to herself 'Rosings is truly beautiful. The foliage growing around the lake is truly spectacular.'

Giving in to her weakness for running, Elizabeth undid her bonnet and let her hair fly free. Reveling in the warmth of the sun and the freedom she found in running, she did not notice that another person also delighted in taking solitary walks of a morning.

'She truly is breathtaking' Darcy breathed to himself. Taking an involuntary step forward, he snapped a branch under his foot. Cursing at his clumsiness, he looked up to see Miss Bennet's blushing countenance.

'What would he think of me?' she thought despairingly. 'Mr. Darcy is always catching me doing unladylike things. First walking in mud, now running around like a hooligan.' Swallowing hard, trying to catch her breath, she realised that she should say something.

"Mr. Darcy" she said, at the same time he said a "Miss Bennet."

Smiling in spite of the situation, Darcy motioned that Miss Bennet should continue.

"I was not going to say anything remarkable sir, just a hello and an apology for catching me quite like this."

"There is no need to apologise Miss Bennet. I can well understand the need to sometimes just run. Indeed, I remember running to a tree in Lambton, near my home as a boy almost everyday, much to the horror of my mother."

Seeing Darcy smiling at the memory showed Lizzy an entirely different side to his character. To imagine that Mr. Darcy had once been a little boy and had gotten into mischief was something that she found quite amusing. Lizzy also noticed how well he looked with a smiled softening the somewhat harsh, serious (though handsome) contours of his face.

Their eyes meet, and Lizzy coloured at the thought that he could read her mind. Clearing her throat a little uneasily, she mentioned that her Aunt had grown up in Lambton.

"Indeed?" Mr. Darcy inquired.

"Yes, my Aunt Gardiner often speaks warmly of her home in Derbyshire. I understand that your estate is quite a blessing to the town of Lambton. My Aunt has told me how kind and well liked your father, Mr. Darcy was."

Darcy was a bit surprised that Elizabeth should have a relative so near to Pemberley. To think he could have met her as a boy if she visited her aunt there (although she may not have been her Aunt at that time).

"Yes, my father was an excellent man. Pemberley grew rapidly under his understanding of farming and the trust of the tenants." And so Darcy continued for quite some time. He was always comfortable speaking about Pemberley. It was such a dear home to him, although somewhat lonely of late, and the chance to speak of it to the woman whom he hoped would one day call it her home as well, added enthusiasm to his account.

Elizabeth looked in wonder at the proud Fitzwilliam Darcy as he laughed and smiled at his home, expounding the beauty of the countryside. She lost track of time and where they were walking to whilst staring at him in wonder. Elizabeth found herself drawn in by the conversation, and asked for more details about the lake in front of Pemberley and what sort of flowers were in the various gardens surrounding the house.

Darcy was only too happy to oblige and felt pride at the intelligence (and interest) denoted by the questions that she asked.

"Roses, of all shades are mostly in the garden to the east. That was my mother's doing. When... when she was so ill those last few months, I remember my father and I bedecking her rooms with all the roses we could cut."

Elizabeth reflexively put her hand on Darcy's arm in response to the sadness she saw in his eyes at the mention of his mother.

Darcy, feeling the warmth of her hand, and her sympathy, looked down at her small fingers. Elizabeth became conscious at what she had done, and hesitantly withdrew her hand, eyes downcast. Fighting the urge to take her hand and place it back on his arm, where it belonged, Darcy stood waiting for Elizabeth to tentatively look up. When she did, he smiled warmly at her, thanking her for her compassion.

Returning his smile, Elizabeth was relieved to know that he understood her actions. Knowing that he could not stand here gazing at her, he mentioned the west gardens as being full of petunias and geraniums.

"My sister, Georgiana looks after this garden. She loves to be amongst the colours and fragrances. Georgiana spends most of her time at Pemberley. I fear that she is not out in society enough, but she is yet young, and shy of strangers, and I can empathise with her, and so I let her remain amongst the flowers and parks of Pemberley."

Elizabeth was glad to hear that Georgiana was not quite so bad as she had heard. 'Perhaps this was another area I was deceived in?' She also felt a strange longing to visit Pemberley and get to know Georgiana. 'Perhaps she would be a good companion for Anne?'

"I heard from your cousins that Miss Darcy is an accomplished player of the pianoforte." Elizabeth inquired.

Mr. Darcy smiled in pride at his little sister. "Yes, she takes great delight, and pains, to perfect her playing."

Elizabeth laughed, "as opposed to other certain young ladies."

Darcy smiled at Lizzy's teasing nature coming through. "Indeed you are mistaken Miss Bennet, I heard that Anne say that I had said that I thought you played marvelously well."

Muddling through the logic of the statement, Elizabeth blushed at the compliment, as well as the implication that he had been listening attentively to their conversation last night.

"Well, thank you for the compliment Mr. Darcy, but I am sure that I lack the finesse of your sister. I am sure she has had the best masters in London, whilst I have only had my Aunt Gardiner's guidance." Elizabeth smiled ruefully. "Not that I am complaining, my Aunt was no doubt much easier on my sisters and myself than any London master."

Darcy confessed that it was possible.

"Not that my aunt has much time anymore. She lives in London and has five children of her own." Lizzy knew they were treading on dangerous ground, but wanted to believe now that it was all Caroline Bingley and Mrs. Hurst who sought to break Mr. Bingley's regard for Jane.

Darcy coloured slightly. So this was the same Aunt whom Miss Jane Bennet was staying in London with. The Aunt married to the Uncle in trade. Darcy sighed. He had hoped that apologising to Bingley would be enough, but perhaps he owed Miss Bennet and Elizabeth an apology as well. 'Just as we were getting along so well' he sighed.

"Is something the matter Mr. Darcy?" Elizabeth asked slightly concerned.

"No, Miss Bennet, it is just that, well, I feel that I have not been quite right in my actions regarding you or rather your family lately." Noting Elizabeth's confused reaction, Darcy went on to explain that he had known of her sister's visit in London, knew that Jane had called on Miss Bingley and that she had returned the call, and that he had taken pains to ensure Bingley knew nothing of this.

"I can offer no excuse but the fact that I was under a misapprehension that Miss Jane Bennet did not return Bingley's affections."

Lizzy's expression had slowly turned harder as Darcy continued. With this last statement, her temper got the better of her, and she exploded in anger.

"How dare you?! To speak so without any knowledge but your own prejudiced view is highly reprehensible!"

"Now Miss Bennet," Darcy began, a bit taken back by Elizabeth's passion.

"No, Mr. Darcy!" she cut in. "You sought to hide your real intentions beneath a poorly constructed excuse! 'No motive can excuse the unjust and ungenerous part you acted there.You do not deny that you have been the principal means of dividing them from each other, of exposing one to the censure of the world for caprice and instability, the other to its derision for disappointed hopes, and involving them both in misery of the acutest kind?'" Elizabeth paused for breath, in hopes of composing herself.

"I ... that is," Darcy wished with all his heart that he could change the past, but he knew he could not, and so faced the consequences. "Yes, I cannot deny that I did do so. I had thought that your situation was so decidedly beneath Bingley's and that the total want of proprietary often displayed by your mother and younger sisters were other convincing factors when I persuaded Bingley to let go his affection for your eldest sister. Since then I have,"

But a livid Elizabeth cut him off from any further explanation. Eyes blazing she accused him of arrogance, of a selfish disdain for the feelings of others, for conceit, and above all pride! (Darcy felt a certain de-ja-vu at her choice of words, so similar to Bingley's the day before.)

"How could you feel that way towards a lady? How could you speak so to a lady? So much for your valued proprietary. Indeed, if it meant so much to you, you would have realised that walking with a young lady for most of the morning, unescorted and in such a private environment was an example of such improper behaviour! Perhaps these excuses only serve when it pleases you to think on them?"

Darcy was trying to keep his own temper by now, "Now, Miss Bennet, let me explain that I have tried to..." again he was cut off.

"No! I have heard enough from you sir! For all your faults, I thought you would behave like a gentleman, but I see that your Aunt's exalted presence has erased any examples set by your father!"

"Now Miss Bennet you go too far! How dare you insult my family?"

"How dare I?" cried Elizabeth. "By that very right that you used when insulting mine!" Realising that she would soon be in tears, Elizabeth hitched up her skirt, made a quick curtsey and said "Good day to you sir."

For the second time that week, Darcy was left standing wondering what had just happened, and where it had all gone so wrong.

Chapter Seventeen: Darcy talks to Colonel Fitzwilliam

Posted on Sunday, 17 March 2002

Darcy was still standing when he saw Miss Bennet, tears in eyes, vanish from his sight. All of his hopes, all of his dreams, all that he had come to realise over the last few days came crashing down on him. Not knowing whether to be angry at Elizabeth's accusations or shrink with horror at what he had said to her in reply, Darcy started a very brisk walk back to Rosings.

Reaching the house, Darcy strode to the library, pulling Colonel Fitzwilliam along as he passed him in the hallway.

"I say Darce, you look a bit upset."

"That is because I am upset!" Darcy had never been torn between screaming and crying before.

Pouring out a whisky for his cousin and himself, the Colonel offered it to Darcy and made him sit down.

"Now tell me, what happened?"

"I met Miss Bennet whilst out on my daily stroll."

"Yes?" The Colonel asked eagerly.

"Well, we spoke of Pemberley, and how much we liked walking in gardens. I told her of Mother's fondness for roses." The Colonel looked in surprise at this very personal disclosure. He could see that Darcy was extremely interested in Miss Elizabeth Bennet.

"I ... well, we seemed to get along and speak of people who were very dear to us. She told me of her Aunt, whom she has an obvious affection for, and I spoke of Georgie."

"Yes? But what caused you to become upset?"

"Will you be quiet for a minute Richard, and let me finish?" Colonel Fitzwilliam knew he was being serious when he called him Richard. "Thank you."

Darcy took a sip of the whisky. "As I was saying, we spoke about many things, and she seemed so interested in what I was saying! But then she mentioned the fact that her Aunt lived in London and seemed to ask whether I knew that her sister was in London at the moment. So I decided that I should make a clean breast of it all, and confessed to her my actions regarding Bingley."

The Colonel whistled. "And what was her reaction?"

"Well, she did not take it too well. Indeed, she became quite incensed and accused me of manipulating Bingley for my own prejudiced reasons." He took another sip at the whisky. "I became slightly annoyed at this, I mean I was trying to be honest with her, and she did not take it quite the way I had intended it to come out."

The Colonel knew that Darcy had problems articulating his thoughts sometimes and asked what his exact words were. When he heard what Darcy had said, and then Elizabeth's replies, his eyes widened. Even Darcy could not have been that awkward surely?! Miss Bennet certainly knew how to express her own mind, even to the face of one of the most illustrious personages in the land! The Colonel's admiration for Miss Elizabeth Bennet increased.

Looking quite miserable, Darcy moaned and put his head in his hands. "What am I to do Fitzwilliam? I love her!"

"Well, you are in a bit of a pickle aren't you?" He attempted humour. Seeing that it was not working, he spoke seriously. "Darce, Elizabeth was right in what she said of you. You did act proudly, and were conceited in your opinions of Hertfordshire society..."

"You say this to me as well?" Darcy looked up in shock. Did everyone hate him? His eyes narrowed, as his jealousy from the night before washed over him. "You just want her to yourself don't you?! You have probably been implanting little unfavourable impressions of me so you can woo her yourself! You are so sociable, and at ease with strangers and she was very friendly with you, as you were with her. Richard Fitzwilliam, the handsome, dashing Colonel of the - Regiment, younger son of the Earl of Matlock. Impeccable military career, illustrious lineage, and charm all in one package! How the women must swoon at your feet! "

The Colonel was quite shocked at the bitterness in Darcy's voice! "Fitzwilliam! How dare you say such things about me, implying that I can charm my way into any lady's heart! I had hoped you would think I have more honour than to poach off my cousin even if he is doing a damn stupid job at gaining the love of a worthy woman!"

Hearing raised voices from within the library, Lady Catherine steered herself closer to the door.

Inside the door, Darcy was having a hard time controlling his irrational jealousy, and a "You love Elizabeth Bennet" slipped out. He knew he should recall it, but was physically incapable.

"If I was in your shoes, to be situated as well as you, with such an estate as Pemberley, and not a worry in the world about money, I would certainly have proposed long ago!"

Lady Catherine nearly fainted away at what Richard Fitzwilliam was saying! She turned down the hall, not wanting to stay and hear anymore talk about that ... that oooh, it was too much to be born! To think that Elizabeth Bennet would be the daughter-in-law of the Earl of Matlock! A ... a niece of her Ladyship! Lady Catherine knew it was a bad idea to have let Mr. Collins invite his upstart, pretentious cousin. 'No, it shall not be born, Mr. Bingley shall marry Elizabeth Bennet! I will save you from yourself Richard Fitzwilliam.'

While Lady Catherine was off in search of an unsuspecting Bingley, Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam were staring hard at each other.

"My feelings haven't overcome my reason, Darce" Richard said gently.

Finally overcoming his jealousy in the face of his cousin's denial, Darcy sighed. Running his hands through his hair, he apologised to Richard.

"I am sorry Fitz. I know I was being unreasonable. I was just so angry at her, not for what she said, but for the fact that she did not let me explain to her how I had changed. How I had remedied the error and had been forgiven by Bingley. How I no longer held those opinions because they would hurt her, and that I could not bear to hurt the woman I love."

Richard saw the despair in Darcy's eyes, and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"It will be alright Darce. Elizabeth was justified in her responses, considering what your behaviour had been. But you have to realise that she has not had the chance to see the real you, or only a glimpse of it this afternoon. And you said yourself that she warmed up to you and was deeply interested in what you were saying! Imagine if you had acted this way from the beginning of your acquaintance?"

Darcy grimaced at the truth of his words, as well as the remembrance of what his first impression had been.

"I must confess the first time I saw her I declared her tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me to dance with her. And I said it loudly enough for her to hear, and I do not doubt now that she did hear me, but she seemed to not take offence. She merely laughed it off, and I noticed how beautiful she was when she laughed (even if it was at me!). Perhaps she took more offence than I thought, indeed than she thought! She could laugh at it, but did it colour her perception of me afterwards?"

"Darce, I believe that it may have. Although I believe Wickham had a hand in it as well."

Darcy's head shot up at his name. "What do you mean? How did you know that she had met him?"

It was Richard's turn to be slightly uncomfortable. "During one of my visits to the parsonage, she was telling me how my manners reminded her of a charming officer quartered at Meryton."

"George Wickham." Darcy nodded. 'That would explain the hostility I noticed at the Netherfield Ball.' "How could she believe him?"

"I believe he confirmed her low opinion of you. I tried to warn her not to take him seriously. I told her that he was not quite respectable, but I did not give her any particulars. They are only in your power to disclose. I would suggest that you do so."

Nodding his head. Darcy drained the rest of the whisky.

"Thank you, Richard. For all your help. I do not know why you put up with me!"

Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed. "It is in my best interests to keep you friendly with me." Noticing Darcy's quizzical look, he explained "I might need money one day!"

The sound of two men laughing replaced the earlier shouting, and healed the breach that had formed between them.

Chapter Eighteen: Lady Catherine's Plan

Posted on Sunday, 17 March 2002

"The hide of that woman! Coming here, using her allurements to cast doe eyes at my nephews!" stormed Lady Catherine, not really worrying about the servants (indeed, she often failed to even see the servants- they were beneath her notice).

"I do not know which is worse, that such a woman has not been publicly disgraced, that I accepted her into my home or that one of my nephews, a person of sense and education has fallen prey to the charms of such a person!

"And although this has occurred, I am not without means of dealing with this... this... matter!" Lady Catherine ran through a list of things that she must do in order to see Miss Elizabeth Bennet become Mrs. Bingley. The first thing on her list, however was to find Mr. Bingley and make him marry her! 'I would even stoop to creating a public scandal so that he will be forced to marry her!' But this was only as a last resort. Surely Mr. Bingley could be cajoled, could see reason. She would flatter Miss Bennet, however distasteful that might be, to ensure Mr. Bingley is so enraptured he could do nothing but ride over to the parsonage that very day to propose!

"Oh there you are Mr. Bingley!" Lady Catherine said in her most accommodating voice in an attempt to reassure Mr. Bingley. What she did not realise however was that he lived with Caroline Bingley and became instantly wary when he heard that particular tone of voice.

So there sat Mr. Bingley, his quiet solitude shattered. Adjusting his cravat slightly and running a hand through his curly hair, he braced himself for some sort of confrontation. Regarding what, he had no idea. 'Not that you need a reason with people like my sister and Lady Catherine.' He thought wryly, 'Especially since I am so little regarded by either. Not to worry, she will not have to put up with me for much longer! I am determined to have business in London needing my attention the day after tomorrow. I just have to see if Darcy or Fitzwilliam would like to accompany me.'

"Mr. Bingley, what are you doing here lazing about when it looks like such a promising day outside? Especially for a nice stroll with a young lady, there is nothing quite so romantic as walking with the right woman. Miss Elizabeth Bennet seemed particularly fond of taking long walks."

Bingley was not quite sure what Lady Catherine was implying, or why she kept trying to imply that he and Elizabeth had a relationship beyond a brotherly and sisterly affection. It was helpful at first, since it meant that he could escape Lady Catherine's company, but now, when he was trying to plan his departure for London, as well as pleasantly ruminating on his fiancé-to-be, interruptions to his solitude were not endearing.

"She does Lady Catherine, in Hertfordshire Miss Elizabeth was constantly walking about the countryside, usually in the company of her sisters. One time..."

"Yes, yes, Mr. Bingley." Lady Catherine did not want to hear any of this, she was just anticipating Mr. Bingley saying six little words, "Miss Bennet is engaged to me". Lady Catherine had no time, and was in no such mood to listen to anyone, let alone Mr. Bingley prattle on about people she wished never to associate with. "You should reminisce with Miss Bennet by asking her out for a walk. Then perhaps you could ask her that question I know you have long been desiring to know the answer to."

"Question Lady Catherine?" Bingley was quite perplexed at this. What sort of question could Bingley ask Elizabeth, that she already had not told him the answer to? Indeed the only question he had wanted to know the answer to was "Did Jane Bennet love me?" and she had answered this a few days ago. Perhaps Lady Catherine knew of his love for Jane, and was helping him? Even Bingley's disposition to think well of people, could not fathom such a possibility.

Lady Catherine was quite exasperated at Mr. Bingley's denseness. Surely he knew she wished he would marry that girl? It was obvious he needed someone to speak plainly. And she was just the Lady to do so.

"Yes Mr. Bingley, a certain question that a gentleman asks a lady when he wishes to bind himself to her for life." Lady Catherine nodded satisfactorily. 'You cannot get much plainer than that!'

"Miss Elizabeth Bennet?" Bingley laughed. "I am sorry Lady Catherine, but I do not wish to ask for Miss Elizabeth's hand in marriage." Lady Catherine's eyes widened slightly. "I did not mean to give the appearance that we were intended for each other, indeed, as much as I enjoy Miss Elizabeth's company, my hopes for her were that she would be a sister-in-law to me one day. I am planning to propose to Miss Jane Bennet, Miss Elizabeth's older sister."

By this time, Lady Catherine could have done with a stiff drink, but she was determined not to show this weakness to Mr. Bingley.

"I am sorry sir, but your behaviour to Miss Elizabeth Bennet has been anything but brotherly. I was sure of an attachment forming between you two. And if I have perceived this, imagine who else could have seen it thus? Mr. and Mrs. Collins, my nephews, everyone in the neighbourhood has seen your marked attentions, and it would be quite scandalous for you not to engage Elizabeth Bennet now."

Bingley was starting to get quite annoyed at the presumptions of this woman. She was a complete stranger to him, and had no cause to interfere with his life. 'Do I have a sign on my back "I am incapable of looking after myself, please help me?" like the signs that Darcy and I used to attach to the back of the college dunce... ermm... yes, let's not get sidetracked Bingley old man.' Bingley also knew the expectations did not exist, he knew that Darcy and the Colonel did not expect him to marry Elizabeth, and Mrs. Collins would have known of his attachment to Jane.

Meanwhile Lady Catherine was continuing her tirade, detailing the scandal and disgrace that would eventuate if he did not marry Elizabeth Bennet.

Well, Mr. Bingley could not sit here and continue to listen to Lady Catherine. Knowing how rude it would be to interrupt a Lady of such consequence (not to mention a chip on her shoulder), but really tiring of her silliness, as well as wanting to start packing for his journey, he did the unthinkable.

"I am exceedingly sorry Lady Catherine," Bingley spoke in quite a loud voice, to be certain that she heard him. "But I cannot allow you to continue in such a fashion when you are wholly without knowledge regarding this matter. Both of your nephews know of my regard for Miss Jane Bennet, and Mr. and Mrs. Collins were present when my marked attentions were paid her in autumn."

Lady Catherine stood there in shock for a minute.

"MR. BINGLEY! How dare you interrupt me?! I am not used to listening to such uncouth men. How dare you contradict my opinions, I..."

Whatever she was, she could not continue, since Mr. Bingley once again imposed his uncouth opinions on her.

"Lady Catherine, with all respect, I must stop this talk of yours since it would only damage two ladies reputations. I must also correct your ideas, since to tell other people would reflect badly on you since they would have more knowledge on this subject than you.

"As for your suggestions, I do not wish you to interfere with my future plans, or even speculate on them. You are wholly unconnected with me and therefore have no impact on the way in which I live out my life."

Lady Catherine by this time was on the verge of apoplexy. Never had anyone dared to speak to her so. Her husband had been quite meek and dared not cross her in the running of Rosings Park, and indeed the surrounding county.

"Mr. Bingley, I did not believe it possible that a person could speak so to me. Do you know who I am? I had not thought that I would be spoken to, especially in my own home. But this sort of behaviour confirms my earlier opinion that you are a second-rate gentleman, a true tradesman and not fit to associate with such distinguished gentlemen as my nephews. I am ashamed of my notice of you these last few weeks. When Darcy invited you here, I was shocked at the presumption you showed in imposing yourself on him, begging for an invitation."

Bingley butted in again. "Lady Catherine, nothing could be farther from the truth! Darcy invited me here as something that would give pleasure whilst visiting his Aunt. I can see now why he would fortify himself with as many other people as possible! To be subjected, alone to your condescending society for above a day would produce madness in anyone. I am surprised that your daughter or servants have not been committed to Bedlam by now!"

"Do not DARE imply anything about my daughter!"

Bingley stalled Lady Catherine from continuing. "Yes, you are right Lady Catherine" (she seemed somewhat appeased by this concession), "I should not have spoken about Miss De Bourgh so, but you are an arrogant, haughty woman who delights in interfering where you have no right. And since you have decided to speak plainly in regards to my situation in life and have from the very outset of our acquaintance behaved in an unladylike manner towards me, I have no wish to trespass on your hospitality any longer, and will remove my undignified presence from you."

Bingley moved towards the door. He had to stop himself from going further. There was something in the air at Rosings that made him argue and shout at everyone. First Darcy, and now Lady Catherine. If he stayed any longer he may be giving Mr. Collins a few tips at proper behaviour, not to mention how to clean that greasy hair!

Lady Catherine however, could not let him leave without her having the last word. "I am overjoyed at you leaving Rosings Park Mr. Bingley. You cannot do so quickly enough for me. As regards this Miss Elizabeth Bennet matter, I shall know how to act. You shall marry her!"

This for Bingley was the last straw. To be threatened by such a woman was too much to bear. A threat could not go unanswered and so he threatened her in return.

"Lady Catherine, I am most pleased to leave you, and I am sure the London ton would be most interested in any interesting information that I could tell them about the infamous Lady Catherine De Bourgh."

And so Mr. Bingley did walk out, which put Lady Catherine in more of a rage, since he had managed to get the last word. She was not too concerned about Bingley's threat to expose her behaviour to London society. There was nothing wrong with her behaviour anyway. It would be just like a tradesman to lie about a Lady.

"I shall know how to act. There is always plan B." Satisfied that she had had the last word, even if Mr. Bingley was now no longer in the room, she stormed out in search of Miss Bennet.

Chapter Nineteen: Getting to Know You

Posted on Sunday, 17 March 2002

Elizabeth was unaware that she had excited such wrath in Lady Catherine, and was calling on Miss Anne De Bourgh with Charlotte. The night before had shown Elizabeth that there was more to Anne than met the eye. Sitting before Anne now in the Drawing room made Elizabeth reevaluate her opinion yet again. Last night was a shy, pale creature, this afternoon she was nearly glowing with happiness. 'Could it be that Anne is merely starved for attention. Well, the right kind of attention?' Elizabeth had to admit that the Anne she saw today was vastly different to the Anne she had met when first introduced. 'She can be quite talkative as well. I have grossly misjudged this poor lady.'

Elizabeth stopped thinking then. Any further thoughts would have led her to think that she had also misjudged Mr. Darcy. She was still quite confused at her feelings towards him. Lizzy was willing to believe that she had misjudged him after reflecting on Wickham and what Colonel Fitzwilliam had said. Meeting him again yesterday, she saw a side of him that pleased her greatly. She found that her time spent with Mr. Darcy yesterday was more pleasant that any of her talks with Wickham, or indeed Colonel Fitzwilliam, had ever been. This showed her what she had already come to terms with- she did not, and had never loved Wickham. But what that meant about her feelings towards Mr. Darcy as a result, she did not go into. And then he had spoiled it all by confessing to her his interference with Jane and Bingley. She was not satisfied with her reaction to the news as well, and thought that she had lost her composure and lost her sense in yelling at him. She was heartily ashamed of what she had said. He had looked so apologetic and vulnerable when telling her, and he did not have to tell her, but he did. This had to mean that he wanted her to know the truth, and that he had mended his ways? 'Or had it? Was he just gloating to me?' She would have thought that a week ago, but not now. Mr. Darcy would not be that cruel to gloat about something that would hurt her so much. He had tried to say something, possibly to tell her that he regretted what he did, but she did not let him. She had said what she did in the heat of the moment and then left him without letting him defend himself further.

Elizabeth had been quite reluctant to come visit Rosings Park this afternoon due to what had happened this morning, but Charlotte had looked so disappointed, and she remembered Anne's delight in knowing Elizabeth would visit last night. So she went. Any little glimmers of hope in seeing him and apologising she quickly squashed. She did not want to see him!

Noticing that Elizabeth was not following the conversation, and consequently could not answer the question directed by Anne, Charlotte took up the conversation. Charlotte was enjoying her visit with Anne immensely. She had never thought that she would derive this much pleasure out of her marriage and visits to the great Lady Catherine De Bourgh. Of course, neither her marriage partner or the Lady in question had anything to do with the pleasure, but to Charlotte, where pleasure came after comfort, she was very happy. Charlotte had known whom she was marrying, and had become quite resigned to the fact that her partner was neither intelligent nor sensible, but she had planned to have guests invited for most of the year to compensate. To know that she did not have to rely on other people to visit her now with Anne as a friend and companion was a great relief. It was equally pleasant to think that she could be of real use to someone, and so she undertook bringing Anne out as her task. Having Elizabeth here helped a great deal since most people felt instantly at ease with her lively nature. Today, Elizabeth was out of sorts, however, and this concerned Charlotte. The night before Elizabeth had expressed her wish to visit Anne and had expressed how nice Anne had been. But after coming back from the walk this morning, which was unusually long, Charlotte had noticed her looking pale and agitated. Elizabeth had not confided in her, and Charlotte had to content herself with guesses. Mr. Darcy she knew must play a prominent part in Elizabeth's mood change. Mr. Darcy was the only person she had ever met that could provoke such reactions out of Elizabeth, and she knew that had they started on a better foot, those reactions would have been favourable.

Anne was also enjoying her time playing hostess. She ensured their cups were always full of tea, pouring it herself. Anne had ordered the astonished servant to bring in a plate of biscuits and scones for her guests, and had delighted in the feel of seeing to the comfort of her friends. For friends she certainly saw them as. No one else had ever expressed such a wish to be in her company, and she knew that these two women were sincere in their feelings. No other person could have been more in the company of insincere, selfish people, and to find Charlotte, who was always concerned for someone else's welfare before her own, and Elizabeth, who was so compassionate, gave Anne hope in life again. Anne, had however been a wallflower long enough to notice when someone was distressed, and therefore was quite worried (and curious) as to what was ailing Elizabeth.

Elizabeth knew that the other two ladies were talking about something, but she had lost track of the conversation, and so when it looked like she was being prompted to respond, said a very disinterested "Yes."

"Miss Bennet, you do not seem quite well. Is there something I can get you?" Anne inquired gently, restraining a laugh.

At the sound of her surname, Elizabeth woke from her reverie. "Anne!" Elizabeth scolded playfully, "you should know by now that you must call me Lizzy, or at least Elizabeth."

"Yes Lizzy," Anne said meekly, though her eyes twinkled. "It was just my concern for your silence and then your response that forced me to use a more formal mode."

At Elizabeth's quizzical look, Anne and Charlotte laughed.

"Lizzy, you just agreed to Mr. Collins being the most agreeable man you had ever known!" Charlotte was struggling to breathe from laughter.

Elizabeth's eyes widened considerably. Looking back and forth from the two giggling women, she rolled her eyes and joined in the mirth.

"Very well Anne, I shall forgive you this time."

"This time?" Anne raised her eyebrows, smiling slyly. "Do you mean there to be a next time when you declare Mr. Collins the a most affable man?"

This raised more laughter from Charlotte, and Elizabeth to fight an urge to throw a pillow at Anne. Anne must have known something of what Elizabeth was feeling, and got up and carefully removed the pillow near Elizabeth.

Elizabeth was astounded at Anne's display of humour, not to mention intuition! Elizabeth smiled widely in satisfaction, and asked if "Miss De Bourgh would escort her into the gardens."

"Miss De Bourgh would be happy to show you around the gardens." Anne smirked in return. "Would Mrs. Collins like to join us?"

Laughing, Charlotte regretted that she must get home to ensure dinner was being prepared, but wished them an enjoyable stroll.

During the walk Anne and Lizzy deepened their relationship. Anne spoke of her wish of having brothers and sisters, whilst Lizzy moaned of the disadvantages of having too many.

After walking about for over half an hour, Lizzy was quite suspicious of Anne's delicate health. Elizabeth felt that it was Lady Catherine's influence on Anne that caused her ill health. Lady Catherine by restricting her daughter and inventing such paralysing illnesses had caused Anne to feel unloved and unwanted. To hide from her mother, Anne had hidden her true nature and had stifled it. 'But see how it bloomed as soon as Charlotte took pains with her? Someone must know about Anne. Someone who is capable of looking after a young lady and knows when to encourage and when to discourage.' Lizzy knew who fit this description perfectly. Mr. Darcy had shown how considerate he was looking after his sister Georgiana. He was also Anne's intended. At this thought, Elizabeth felt slightly unwell. The thought of Anne marrying Darcy was not quite so pleasant as when she had first heard it from Wickham. Then she had thought Anne to be a mirror image of her mother and Mr. Darcy to not be much better. How differently she thought now. 'I must stop thinking of Mr. Darcy whenever I have a moment's rest.' Elizabeth was quite exasperated how he was always distracting her now.

"I really do like Charlotte." Anne was saying. "She has been so considerate. I do not understand how she could marry such a man as Mr. Collins."

"No," Lizzy laughed "nor could I, but seen in a prudential light it was a good match for her. I could never marry for anything but the deepest love."

"I wish I could say the same, but I do not think my mother would let me choose my own husband." Anne sighed. She did not wish to marry Fitzwilliam.

Elizabeth looked critically at Anne. "You do not wish to marry your cousin?" Elizabeth flushed at what she had said. "I am sorry Anne, I did not wish to be impertinent."

Anne smiled at Lizzy. "I do not mind. I confess, I do not wish to marry Fitzwilliam, I am sorry, Mr. Darcy. I do not think we would suit each other."

Elizabeth looked incredulously, and enviously at Anne. Here was a woman who did not love Fitzwilliam Darcy, and yet would be blest to be his forever! 'Elizabeth Bennet! You stop this train of thought this instant! Anne is perfect for Mr. Darcy. She has a natural elegance, breeding and money. And anything to take Anne away from her mother must improve her. And why should I be jealous of Anne? I do not love Mr. Darcy! I hardly know the man- he puzzles me every time I meet him.'

Anne noticed the conflicting emotions flickering across Elizabeth's face and cursed her forgetfulness. 'How could I forget that Fitzwilliam is in love with Elizabeth? Perhaps Elizabeth feels more for him than she showed previously.' Anne smiled as a wicked thought dashed through her head. Perhaps she may discuss this with Charlotte when she calls tomorrow?

Slightly disconcerted by Anne's grin in her direction, Elizabeth was about to ask about Georgiana in order to change the subject when a loud "Miss Bennet!!" screeched through the air.

Lady Catherine had been most displeased to hear that Anne was out walking with Elizabeth Bennet.

Chapter Twenty: Window Ruminations

Posted on Sunday, 17 March 2002

After talking with his cousin, Darcy had gone back to his room to sulk. Of course, he would never have called it sulking, but to any other observer, it would have been obvious.

Darcy was trying hard to stop despair from settling in. His talk with Richard had shown to Darcy how much he loved Elizabeth (he had long ago forgone the formal and impersonal Miss Bennet). It had also shown how far away from him she was.

Wanting to bang his head against a wall, Darcy settled for looking out the window. The view was spectacular- it overlooked the gardens surrounding Rosings. Darcy ignored the way the sun highlighted the deep green of the well-tended lawn with the bright pinks, purples and yellows of the flowers artfully arranged. As much as Darcy had always felt the symmetry appealing, he knew the wildness of Pemberley suited his tastes more. On the whole, Rosings Park was almost artificial in it's attempt to look spectacular. Artificial, pretentious and cold. Perfectly matching the characteristics of the owner.

Fiddling with the latch on the window, Darcy reflected on this yearly visit to his aunts. Never had he gone through so many varied emotions- from jubilation to despair. All because Elizabeth was here. She was so close, and yet so far from him.

Darcy forced the reluctant window open so he could rest his elbows on the frame whilst breathing deeply the fragrant air. A vision of Elizabeth as she was yesterday, her hand placed on his arm. Her eyes had shown compassion, comfort and understanding. It was an instinctive action on her part, as soon as she had realised the improprietary of what she had done, withdrew her hand, but not the look in her eyes. To have such a woman beside him, to grow old with such a woman was soon becoming the only wish Darcy had ever wanted so badly. And the only wish he would never be granted.

Darcy had come to the realisation after speaking with Bingley and Fitz that there were some things that wealth, position and affluence could not grant. More surprising was the realisation that he was glad they could not. He wanted Elizabeth to see through his wealth and position, to look at the man.

'And she did, Darcy. She saw a haughty, disagreeable young man. But that is not me!' he screamed in frustration. 'It never was. Or only in certain situations! If I can only get a chance to show her who I really am, who I wish to be, to prove to her that her admonitions were true and have been corrected.'

Two women walking caught his attention in the gardens below. He only took notice of one of them. His breath caught. "Elizabeth" he breathed. "How beautiful you are, especially when you laugh like that. The sun is shining on you, playfully caressing those curls, your eyes are lit up, they are smiling. Such a creamy complexion with blushing cheeks, they would be so smooth to the touch."

Darcy sighed. This was the second time he had stood at a window looking down on an unsuspecting Elizabeth. The first time he had been caught by her playfulness, but had removed himself from the window, reassuring himself that it was the unexpected nature of the situation more than the woman that had so caught his attention. This time, however, he allowed himself the pleasure to admit that it was the woman, that brilliant, alluring woman who had caught his attention, and his heart.

"How small you seem, my love. How I wish I was there with you, walking, talking, laughing with you. How I wish to protect you forever."

The thought of Wickham flashed through his mind, and dampened all his hopes. Darcy knew that Elizabeth liked Wickham more than she had ever liked him. The thought of Wickham having the privilege of escorting Elizabeth around a park made Darcy almost ill.

"You cannot know what a scoundrel that man is dearest. I cannot allow him to impose himself on you. To think he would just use you as he did Georgiana!" Darcy remembered his conversation with Wickham last year. He had stood there reveling in his easy victory in making Georgiana love him. Darcy had successfully restrained himself from hitting George Wickham for the last hour whilst he listened to the full account of the events. He could not restrain himself however, when he heard Wickham's plan to take advantage of Georgiana and then just leave her bereft of help- a ruined woman. Colonel Fitzwilliam had been there at the time to stop him from doing too much damage to that pretty face of his.

Darcy knew that Wickham was not a man to change his ways after twenty-five years of dishonesty and cheating. He knew that he had to protect this woman from Wickham's charms.

"I will protect you, even if it makes you hate me for my interference again."

And so Darcy left his window perch to confront the vision with the truth. Nearing the gardens, Darcy suddenly heard someone shriek Elizabeth's name. Rounding a corner, he saw his Aunt striding towards his beloved who was standing next to Anne.

Darcy stopped coming towards them. He did not want his Aunt to find out about his love for Elizabeth just yet. He would not subject her to such a humiliating and degrading spectacle of being upbraided by his Aunt.

He changed his mind, when he heard his Aunt start to scream at Elizabeth.

"How dare you entrap my nephew, Colonel Fitzwilliam! You will never marry him, and I want you to promise me here and now never to enter into such an arrangement with him!"

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