Section I, Next Section

Go West

It is a truth universally acknowledged that when two men agree to meet on the street at sundown, only one of them will still be standing when the gun smoke clears.

Small clouds of dust rose up from the street beneath his boots and his spurs jangled softly with every deliberate step he took toward the center of town. He tugged the brim of his hat lower on his brow. Glancing left and then right, he carefully scanned his surroundings. Every shutter had been closed and every door locked tight. The entire stretch of Main Street was still, abandoned, and silent.

He paused to stretch his tense shoulders and to contemplate the situation he was now facing. He had no choice. There was no other option. Soon, he would either be free of his nemesis and have secured the safety and prosperity of many people or he would be dead. It was a sobering thought, but he had made his decision.

Still, he felt utterly alone as he continued walking toward his destiny. The cold hard feel of the twin nickel-plated Colt revolvers resting in his gun belt gave him some sense of security. He knew without a doubt that he could keep a clear head and steady hand . . . but then so could his adversary.

He halted in front of the town hall and drew in a deep breath. The sun completed its fiery show and sank beneath the horizon as he watched in awe. Shadows lengthened, dusk settled, and he waited in the timeless void.

The swing doors of the saloon opened with a rush and instantly the calm was shattered.

Approaching footsteps echoed from the wooden boardwalk. A dark figure materialized from the shadows and stepped into the street.

It was time.

The two men acknowledged each other with austere nods and steely glances. Coats were pushed back and holstered guns were revealed. The two men exchanged nods again and their guns jerked up.

Gun barrels flashed with fire, shots reverberated in the still air, gun smoke rose, blood spilled, and one body slumped to the dusty street.

Chapter 1

Within the stage two figures sat opposite each other bracing themselves as the stage bumped and jolted across the open prairie. The young woman was slumped in a heaving pile of frothy orange feathers, but the young man was practically bouncing on the seat, his blue eyes glowing with the excitement.

"Isn't it beautiful, Caroline?", the man gushed as he kept his attention glued to landscape that was rushing past.

All he received was a low moan in response. However, this lack of enthusiasm from the orange lifeless lump did nothing to dampen his soaring spirits.

"There is so much space and such an unspoiled beauty. You know, Caro, it really reminds me of an ocean with all the ups and downs. Waves on a grass ocean! And the mountains I never imagined that they would be so immense. They are magnificent. Oh, I hope we get to meet some Indians! Real cowboys too! What an adventure! I am sure that...."

At this point the man's exuberant discourse was abruptly halted. The young lady's head had jolted up and he was pierced by an icy glare from a pair of dark eyes.

"Charles, would you please desist from your mindless ramblings! I have a fierce headache from this dreadful vehicle and your unending discourse on the wonders of the West is certainly not helping matters! Honestly! Sometimes you have the self-control of a two-year old."

"Sorry, Caroline, I just get so excited," Charles blushed with embarrassment.

"How can you be excited about setting up a practice in such god-forsaken place? It is so barren. Dirt and filth penetrate everything. No signs of civilization anywhere. There will be no polite company at all. There are only criminals, drunks, and savages. Oh, and all the vicious, bloodthirsty beasts like bears and mountain lions. I am sure that we shall perish within a week."

At this point, Charles settled back against the cushion to endure his turn of listening to his sibling's ramblings.

"It's your fault that we are in this desert wasteland! You could easily have joined a respectable medical practice in Boston or Philadelphia, but no that wasn't good enough. You wanted to be self-reliant and stand on your own two feet. You were determined to come out here to have your "western experience" and you dragged me with you! There will be no society worthy of my stature....and....and....how will I ever find a rich man to marry? What a selfish, unfeeling brother you are!"

By this point, Caroline was wailing loudly and had managed to work herself into a fit of hysteria. She vigorously rubbed her nose with a hankie, crossed her arms, and began her silent routine. Caroline thought that this stoic behavior punished her brother, but really he rejoiced in his temporary freedom from her sharp tongue and bad temper. Charles stared out the window and struggled to contain the mirth that threatened to come bubbling out in a laugh as the stage continued to rumble towards their destination.

A small bell tinkled as the door of the general store swept open. A woman stood behind the counter weighing out sugar, but she turned to greet her customers. Two of the girls immediately rushed to the new display of fall bonnets while the other girl sedately proceeded to the books on the far wall. The mother tottered over to the counter.

"Good Afternoon, Mrs. Bennet. It has been awhile since your last visit into town."

"Hello, Mrs. Lucas. Indeed, it has been too long. Unfortunately, my Thomas insisted on setting up the ranch near that bend in the river. He said we needed to be close to water. What a notion! Surely our well provides enough water to..."

Mrs. Lucas anticipated Mrs. Bennet's long-winded narrative and brought it to a satisfactory halt.

"What can I get for you today Mrs. Bennet?"

"Well, let me see...a twenty pound bag of your brown sugar, some coffee, and Lydia will be needing an entirely new wardrobe in the latest fashions. Mr. Foster has just given her a job working in his cafe. What do you say to that, Mrs. Lucas? What a bit of luck! She must look perfect! With all the men she will be around surely she will find herself a husband."

"Well, let me show you what we have, Mrs. Bennet."

An hour later Mrs. Lucas was exhausted, her patience was gone, and she felt like screaming in frustration. "Why couldn't Jane or Lizzy have come along to help control their mother?" Mrs. Lucas wondered.

"Will that be all for today, Mrs. Bennet?" Mrs. Lucas asked hopefully.

"That's all for the purchases, but I wondered if you would mind sharing some of the Meryton news. You know how I like news, Mrs. Lucas!"

What she really likes is cruel gossip, thought Mrs. Lucas. Mrs. Lucas bit her tongue and managed to continue cheerfully.

"Well, Lucy Steele finally had her baby. Colonel Brandon out at the fort thinks that peace has finally been secured with the local Indians. That's about all, Mrs. Bennet."

"Surely, something a little juicier has happened?"

"Capital, capital," a low voice chuckled.

Both women turned to see Mr. Lucas, owner of the store and Meryton's mayor, enter from the back of the shop.

"Mrs. Bennet, I do have some news for you," Mr. Lucas said with a smile.

"What is it, Mr. Lucas?" Mrs. Bennet was practically quivering in anticipation.

Mrs. Lucas tried to hush her husband with a telling look, but he was either completely dense or simply ignoring her.

"Well Mrs. Bennet, we are expecting a new arrival in Meryton this afternoon. Indeed, Meryton's first doctor will arrive on the 4 o'clock stage with his sister."

"A doctor? Well, that is not news. Who cares about a stuffy old man with draughts and a black bag?"

"Mrs. Bennet, I understand that Dr. Bingley is fresh out of medical school. He comes from a respectable family in Philadelphia. He wrote me earlier this year about his desire to set up a practice here in the West. So you see Mrs. Bennet, I think your preconceptions of Dr. Bingley will prove to be quite incorrect." Mr. Lucas emphasized his point with a superior smirk.

"Oh heavens, a rich young doctor from back east. What a fine thing for my girls! Surely one of them will catch his fancy. Mr. Lucas you are so kind for sharing your delightful news. I am all aflutter! You say he arrives on the four o'clock stage. That is unlucky. We have to be back at the ranch so Mr. Bennet can oversee the evening chores. I don't know why Lizzy can't handle that! I am quite put out...."

At this point in her monologue Mrs. Bennet began ambling toward the door muttering under her breath and matching her daughters with Dr. Bingley in her head.

As soon as the door closed, a furious Mrs. Lucas turned to confront her dolt of a husband.

"William, did you never consider that I had hopes for Charlotte and Dr. Bingley? Now you have gone and ruined it all. You know our daughter is rather a plain girl. She will be invisible beside the showy beauty of the Bennet girls. You could at least have given your daughter a head start at securing Dr. Bingley's affections. Now with Mrs. Bennet on his tail no one else will be able to get near him! "

Mrs. Lucas continued berating her husband, whacked him on the head, and stormed into the back room.

At promptly four o'clock the Denver stage rolled down the main street of Meryton and halted in front of the town hall. Both Charles and Caroline were surprised to see that a crowd had gathered to greet them. However, openly staring was probably a more accurate description of the people's behavior.

The driver opened the door to the stage and Dr. Bingley stepped out into the afternoon sunshine. He could almost swear that he could hear people in the crowd oohing and ahhing over his appearance. Charles stood there feeling foolish and uncomfortable until Caroline reminded him of her presence with a firm tap on his shoulder. Charles reached for Caroline's hand and assisted her out of the stage.

Instead of feeling awkward like her brother, Caroline soaked in the joy of being the center of attention. Maybe living here won't be so bad after all, Caroline mused silently. The crowd merely stood watching the newcomers in silence.

Finally, a large cheerful man approached Charles and clasped his hand. "Welcome to our little town, Dr. Bingley. We are so glad to have you here. I am William Lucas, mayor of Meryton."

"I am delighted to meet you Mr. Lucas. I am already enchanted by Meryton's charm and the friendliness of her citizens."

"Won't you introduce me to your bewitching sister, Dr. Bingley?"

"Certainly, Mr. Lucas. This is my sister Caroline."

"Pleased to meet you, Miss Bingley."

"An honor I am sure," Caroline returned haughtily.

"Capital, Capital! Here let me show you to the office and house that you arranged to rent."

"You are too kind, Mr. Lucas."

Caroline took Charles' arm and they allowed Mr. Lucas to lead them down the boardwalk of Main Street. As the Bingleys left, the crowd dispersed into small groups to discuss the new arrivals. Eventually, everyone headed home for supper. The Bingley's had arrived and the excitement of the day was over.

Chapter 2

The sky lightened as the sun began to peep over the horizon. The wind gently swept across the prairie grass. Birds began to tweet their morning anthems and cattle lowed softly as they bent their heads to graze. The sound of galloping hooves broke the calm.

"Whoa there, Austen," commanded a soft feminine voice.

The magnificent chestnut mare responded immediately and drew to a stop. A slender, lithe figure swung lightly to the ground. With an outstretched hand, she offered a sugar cube which was quickly snuffled down by the horse and then turned to admire the sun's entrance to a new day. The immense sky was blended and streaked like a painter's palette. The beautiful scene lasted for a few minutes and then the sun quickly began its journey across the heavens.

The rider remounted and spurred the horse back across the open prairie.

The sun was spreading its warmth over the earth when Austen halted to in the dusty stable yard. A ranch hand took the reigns from the young woman and led her mount into the stable for her morning feed. The woman dusted off her clothes and began to stroll briskly toward the main house, stopping momentarily at the well to get a cool drink. She could hear the cowhands joking down in the bunkhouses as they prepared for the day before them. She trotted up the wooden steps to the wrap around porch, toed off her boots, and turned to survey the ranch.

Longbourne was the largest spread along this stretch of the South Platte, but it still possessed a definite charm and beauty. The ranch was bordered by the river on the east and the steep rise of the foothills on the west. It was a nice spread and provided the Bennet family with a comfortable income. It was a home to be proud of.

The screen door creaked as the woman pulled the door open and strolled back into the kitchen.

"Good morning Miss Elizabeth. How was your ride this morning?" asked a cheerful round little woman who was standing at the stove.

"It was wonderful, Hill. The sunrise was beautiful this morning." Elizabeth untied the ribbon from her hair and let her curls bounce freely around her shoulders. "Is anyone else up yet?"

"Well, your father rode out about an hour ago to check the gate on the Northwest corner. Lydia is upstairs primping for her first day at the cafe. I would guess your ma is helping her. Jane is still getting her books together for classes today. Kitty is just getting dressed and Mary is still asleep. It will probably be another late morning. Why don't you have some coffee while you wait? Go wash up. When you come back I will have a hot cup poured and waiting for you."

"That sounds wonderful, Hill." Elizabeth leaned over and gave the woman a tight hug before heading into the washroom at the rear of the house.

When she returned a steaming mug was waiting at her place at the large oak table. She took a sip, sighed deeply, and leaned back in her chair. Quiet footsteps on the stair alerted Elizabeth that one of her family members was about to join her.

"Dear Jane, how well you look this morning. Your male students are sure going to have a hard time focusing on their lessons," Elizabeth gently teased and watched the blush rise on her elder sister's cheeks.

"Really Lizzy! You are being quite ridiculous!" Jane scolded solemnly as she sat down, but she couldn’t conceal the rosy blush on her cheekbones.

The screen door banged shut as Thomas Bennet entered the house and took his seat at the head of the table.

"Hello Lizzy. Hello Jane. Is breakfast ready?"

"It'll be just a second, Mr. Tom," Hill called from the kitchen.

"Good. I'm famished. Lizzy, a stretch of fence out by the northwest gate needs to be repaired as soon as possible." Mr. Bennet swiped his daughter's mug and took a long slug of her coffee with a satisfied sigh.

"I'll put Jack and Clancy on it this afternoon if they’re free. We are really pushing the men right now. We need to see about hiring a few more hands especially with calving season coming up."

"I know Lizzy. I know. I’ll see what I can do. Until I can find someone we will just have to make do.”

Lizzy nodded in agreement and proceeded to discuss the daily workings of the ranch with her father.

A strong wave of perfume preceded the next family member to the table.

"Lizzy, why do bother with the ranch business at all?" Lydia whined as she plopped her powdered and puffed person into the spot at the table beside Jane.

"You're quite right, Lydia. Elegant females don't concern themselves with men's business," Mrs. Bennet concurred as she followed her youngest daughter into the dining room. "You will never catch a husband if you are sunburned, wearing trousers, and smell like that horse of yours. And then there's your hair! Lizzy, it's tangled beyond recognition. Go and pin it up like Jane's at once...."

Mrs. Bennet would have continued her discourse on Elizabeth's physical failings if Mr. Bennet had not observed his daughter's pained expression, taken pity on her, and interrupted.

"My dear, it is a good thing that Lizzy does concern herself with ‘men's business’ because we have never had any sons to carry out the ‘men‘s business’. If anything ever happens to me, Lizzy will be the one that will have to hold things together. In fact, she pretty much runs the ranch already. Besides, any man who can't see beyond a few tangles and a little dirt to the true beauty of my Lizzy doesn't deserve her." Mr. Bennet gave his daughter an affectionate smile and she responded with one of her own.

"Well, this all very vexing!" Mrs. Bennet huffed with a dramatic sigh of her ample bosom.

Kitty and Mary eventually joined the family at the table. Heads were bowed, grace was asked, and Hill began to bring the meal in from the kitchen. A hearty meal was eaten and then everyone set about his or her day. Jane, Kitty, and Lydia climbed into the buggy and headed into town. Mary would spend the day with her mother being trained in the mysterious intricacies of the domestic arts. Mrs. Bennet hoped to compensate for Mary's lack of beauty by making her the perfect housewife. Mr. Bennet retreated to his study to review the ranch records while Lizzy quickly tied her hair back in a braid, tugged on her boots, and set her gray hat on her curls. Jimmy had Austen waiting at the hitching post when she trotted down the porch steps leaving the screen door to bang closed behind her. She mounted up and rode off to supervise the hands out near the third big bend in the river. The day at Longbourne had begun.

The Bennet buggy slowed as it entered the main street of Meryton. Jane reined the horses to a stop so Lydia could hop down in front of the cafe.

"Good luck, Lydia," Kitty called.

"We will be here to pick you up this afternoon," Jane reminded her flighty sister. "Be careful."

"Oh, I'll be fine. Have fun with the children you two, while I spend the day with hungry handsome men!" Lydia giggled and then entered the cafe.

Jane lightly slapped the reigns to start the horses moving again. The buggy rolled down the few final blocks of Main Street to the other end of town. On the last corner, Jane noted with interest that the newly arrived doctor had hung a sign giving notice that his clinic was officially open.

A little way beyond the edge of town sat the small clapboard schoolhouse. Children were playing tag and ball in the dusty yard, but they stopped and called out when they spotted the approaching buggy.

Dan Whittier, one of the older boys who attended the school part time while also working on his father's ranch, came and offered his hand to help Kitty out of the buggy.

"Good morning, Dan!" Kitty simpered prettily, “Thanks.”

"My pleasure, Miss Bennet. I’ll get the horses unhitched for you."

"Thank you, Dan. Come along Kitty. It is almost time for class to begin."

Kitty swept the schoolhouse while Jane wrote the daily assignments on the board. Then Kitty rang the large bell on the porch summoning the students inside. The sounds of thundering footsteps, cheerful conversation, and banging desktops filled the room as Jane called the class to order.

Jane was in the middle of an arithmetic lesson and Kitty was assisting the youngest students with their basic sums when the door to the schoolhouse opened and a man entered the back of the room. The students’ attention was immediately drawn to the visitor and all thoughts of their math lesson vanished. Jane was conscientiously explaining a problem on the chalkboard when excited whispers began spreading through her classroom. She turned to discover what could possibly be distracting her normally attentive class.

Dr. Bingley was entirely unaware of the stares and whispered comments that were coming from the roomful of children. His eyes remained fixed on the lovely figure at the front of the room.

She's an angel, he silently declared to himself. She was definitely not what his imagination had conjured up at the title of schoolmarm. He had been expecting a skinny, strict spinster. Not the vision of loveliness that he now beheld. He stared transfixed by her wheat-colored curls, forget-me-not eyes, and willowy figure.

Jane, however, did not suffer from this same temporary paralysis. Instead, she was merely afflicted by the rapid appearance of a heated blush on her cheeks. Jane quickly averted her eyes from the man who was openly staring at her person. It wasn't quite proper for him to stare at her so, but she hastily noted that he seemed to be oblivious to everything. Jane's embarrassment increased when her students began to titter and chuckle at the awkward tension that obviously existed between their teacher and the strange visitor. Finally, Kitty came to the rescue.

“Children, why don’t you take recess now,” Kitty instructed smoothly and then approached the man who was still standing just inside the door. The students pushed past him in their eagerness to enjoy the sunshine.

“Hello, sir. My name is Miss Kitty Bennet and I am one of the teachers here. I assume that you are Dr. Bingley. We are very happy to welcome you to Meryton, sir.” Kitty greeted the man and waited a moment for a response. “You are Dr. Bingley, aren’t you?”

Bingley gently shook his head to recover from his dazed state and forced his eyes to focus on the young woman beside him. “Indeed, I am Dr. Charles Bingley.”

“Well then Dr. Bingley, allow me to introduce my sister, Miss Jane Bennet. Jane has been teaching here at Meryton School for three years.” Kitty made this speech as she led Mr. Bingley down the aisle toward the front of the schoolhouse.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Dr. Bingley,” Jane managed to murmur.

“No, Miss Bennet. The pleasure is all mine.” Bingley stated seriously and was delighted when Jane’s cheeks flushed with renewed color. Two sets of blue eyes met, locked, and once again the rest of the world disappeared.

Kitty was forced to interrupt again with a question.

“Was there something that you needed, Dr. Bingley?"

“Indeed, Miss Bennet. Thank you for reminding me. I wish to give each of your students a thorough physical examination free of charge in return for the warm welcome I have received here in Meryton. I just wanted to find a time that would be convenient for you. I do not wish to interfere with your schedule.”

Jane allowed her sister to make the arrangements with Dr. Bingley and took advantage of the time to study the new arrival. He was definitely not what she had expected. She had imagined someone older and more studious looking. The man before her was slim and reasonably tall. He had clear blue eyes, golden curls, and a cheerful countenance.

Actually, he is not at all unpleasant to look at, Jane thought distractedly. Dr. Bingley noticed Jane’s observation of his appearance and responded with another wide smile which only increased his appeal. Indeed, he is not, Jane restated internally.

Kitty and Dr. Bingley settled on a date and time for the examinations. Jane’s wandering attention only returned to the conversation as the doctor turned to leave.

“Until Thursday then, good day Miss Bennet."

The doctor nodded at Kitty and then turned to face Jane again. He made direct eye contact and smiled one final time.

“Good day Miss Bennet.”

He uttered the words with joyful remorse. Then he turned quickly and bounced cheerfully down the schoolhouse steps whistling a lilting tune.

Chapter 3

Posted on Friday, 14 March

After a hard day in the saddle all Lizzy wanted was a cool drink. She had been working with the hands to separate the calves from the herd so they could be examined and counted. The wind had stirred dirt into the air and the sun had beat down mercilessly on the riders working on the plains. Lizzy was ready for a long soak, a hearty meal, and a good night's rest.

Lizzy rode Austen into the yard, dismounted, and led her to her stall. There she removed her saddle, groomed and watered her, and dropped a quick goodnight kiss on her head before heading up to the main house. Lizzy’s steps were slower than that morning as she began to feel the results of a long day of work. The sound of a horse nickering caught her attention. Three strange mounts were tied at the hitching post. There was an appaloosa, a chestnut, and a handsome palomino that was almost white in color. They were all fine specimens of horseflesh, but they looked fatigued.

I wonder who they belong to?, Lizzy pondered. Her question was answered when she heard strange male voices drifting out the window of her father's study. She was curious, but she didn't linger. The knowledge that Hill would have fresh lemonade chilled and waiting motivated Lizzy to hurry into the kitchen as she kicked off her boots.

The mystery of the strange male visitors was revealed at dinner that evening. Kitty was giggling while Lydia gushed about her day at the cafe. Mary was helping Hill get the supper dishes on the table while Mrs. Bennet relentlessly pumped Jane for all the details of her encounter with Dr. Bingley. Lizzy, now refreshed and clean, simply sat silently in her chair and observed the behavior of her mother and sisters with barely concealed amusement. The chaos settled momentarily when Mr. Bennet took his place at the head of the table and called the meal to order by saying a simple prayer. Then normal mealtime activities resumed. Kitty giggled, Lydia gushed, Mary sulked, Jane blushed, Mrs. Bennet interrogated, and Mr. Bennet munched his meal with undisguised relish.

Several minutes had passed in this manner when Mr. Bennet looked up from his plate to address Lizzy.

"I solved our labor shortage today, Lizzy. I hired three young men who rode out to the ranch. They were eager for work and have guaranteed to stay at least through the summer. I know that you will quickly whip them into shape. I bet that they will do very well for you.”

"Were they able to give you any references or work history, father?" Lizzy only wanted ranch hands that she could trust.

"Now Lizzy, that is hardly necessary. As long as they give me a full day's work for their wages I am satisfied. You of all people should know that out here in the West a man should be free from the shadows of his past. They drifted into town this morning looking for work. Foster sent them out this way. It's what I call a mutually advantageous situation."

Lydia's interest was perked with the mention of her employer's name and entered the conversation while her father munched on a fluffy wheat roll that was dripping with butter.

"Aye, Lizzy. I saw them at the cafe this morning. They caused quite a stir riding down Main Street like desperados. The one on the white horse was fearfully handsome and charmingly polite. I do hope that he has a white hat. A man looks nothing without a white cowboy hat."

"Well, regardless of hats," continued Mr. Bennet. "I put them down in the last bunkhouse and they will be ready to start work in the morning. Keep close to them for a few days, Lizzy, until they get a feel for the ranch. I am confident that you can deal with any conflict or problem that may come up, my dear."

With the issue firmly settled in his mind Mr. Bennet asked Mary to pass the potatoes and happily continued his meal while Lizzy wondered about her three newest ranch hands.

Lizzy was braiding her hair for bed when a light tap sounded on her door.

“Come in,” Lizzy called out.

Jane quietly entered the room and sat on the edge of the bed. The two sisters often shared these nightly chats and it had become somewhat of a ritual.

Lizzy turned in her chair and pulled her feet up to rest her head comfortably on her knees.

“Did Jack and Clancy get the fence repaired?” Lizzy nodded in reply and continued with her hair.

“You look tired, Lizzy. Sometimes I think that we all expect too much of you.” Jane paused and looked at her younger sister thoughtfully. “Maybe you should ask father to hire a foreman.”

Jane quickly glanced at her sister’s horrified expression before she hurried on.

“You work too hard, Lizzy, and you really should be worrying about other things.”

“Like what for instance?” Lizzy demanded.

“Like marriage.”

“What?”

“Lizzy, you know that when father dies everything will change. We don’t have a brother to take over the ranch. I know that you’re more than capable of running Longbourne, but you have to know that father can’t let you run it by yourself without the help of a man. No one would do business with a woman and it just wouldn’t be safe. Longbourne will have to be sold unless one of us marries a man who will take the ranch over. You should be looking for a future spouse and business partner, Lizzy.”

Jane finished and watched as a variety of emotions moved across her sister’s features. Jane identified anger, resentment, denial, and then finally acceptance.

Lizzy counted to ten and took a deep breath to compose herself before she responded.

“Jane, I know that what you say it true and it scares me, but I won’t trade my happiness for my security even if it means losing Longbourne. Don’t you understand?” Lizzy asked with tears pooling in her eyes.

Jane rose from the bed and knelt to embrace her sister.

“Of course, I understand. I want to marry for love as well. Just take care to fall in love with someone who loves ranching,” Jane said in an attempt to lighten the mood.

Lizzy managed to laugh through her tears.

“Oh, Jane. I am sure that you won’t have to choose between security and love.”

“And you will?”

“Jane, I am determined that I will only marry a man that I am deeply in love with. I want a life partner, not a business partner.”

Lizzy paused and sighed deeply. A dreamy gleam shone in her eyes and Jane knew she was seeing a beautiful image of her future. Too quickly, the vision vanished and Lizzy returned to reality.

“So, I will end up a spinster. Austen and I will roam the range together, but I shall make sure that your six children all know how to rope a calf and ride like the wind.”

Jane and Elizabeth and shared another burst of laughter while they hugged. Then Jane got up to return to her room.

“Goodnight, Lizzy.”

“Goodnight, dear Jane.”

Lizzy hustled under the covers and tugged then up beneath her chin. She blew out her candle and then snuggled into the welcome comfort of her bed.

The screen door banged shut behind her as Lizzy strode across the porch on her way to the stable yard. She had already had her morning ride, breakfast, and several cups of coffee. It was time for the day to begin.

Lizzy reached the stable yard and was welcomed by light-hearted teasing and greetings from the men.

“Good morning, Miss Lizzy.”

“Looking good, Miss Bennet.”

“Look, it’s the boss.”

Lizzy grinned and greeted the hands individually. Some of them had been at the ranch for years and had watched her grow up. She enjoyed working beside these men everyday and knew that she had earned their respect and their protection. The hard work and long hours had almost formed a bond between them. She felt closer to these men than most of her family.

Lizzy moved through the crowd and hopped up to sit on the top rail of the corral.

“Listen up, fellas,” she hollered. “Here are the assignments for today.”

Lizzy read off the list and answered any questions that needed clarification.

“See you back here for supper, boys. Saddle up and head out.”

Lizzy remained sitting on the corral and watched as the hands left the yard to begin the tasks for the day. Three men remained behind the rest of the group.

Lizzy’s gaze was immediately drawn to the man in the center. He was tall and had a lanky build. His black hair was tousled and his face was shaded by the brim of his hat. A plaid shirt covered his muscled arms and broad chest while a blue bandana was tied carelessly around his neck. A coiled length of rope was clasped in his left hand. Leather chaps protected his long legs and a pair of brown boots completed his ensemble.

Lizzy merely glanced at the other two men. There was just something about the man in the middle that demanded attention. Something that alerted her senses.

As she watched, the center man tilted his head and the threesome began to swagger toward her. Lizzy jumped to the ground to greet the men.

“Hello, I am Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”

As she spoke the center man lifted his chin and she saw his face for the first time. He had finely-chiseled features and his cheeks were shaded with just a hint of stubble. Then he lifted his eyelids and met her gaze directly. His eyes were a piercing icy blue. She felt immediately like his eyes could see inside her, even her thoughts. They seemed to be peering right into the depths of her heart and mind. It was a strange and disconcerting sensation.

His intense and unrelenting stare made her stumble over her next words.

“W- w- welcome to Longbourne. We are glad to have you,” Lizzy greeted them with a forced smile.

The ice blue eyes never faltered or shifted. His eyes gave his handsome face a harsh, almost wild look. Lizzy looked into the freezing orbs and saw a flash of something.

What was it? Hate? Anger? Danger? Lizzy asked herself as a shiver raced down her spine.

Suddenly, the stranger’s eyes lightened to a sunny blue and a wide white grin slashed across the expanse of his tanned face. Whatever Lizzy had seen in his eyes had completely vanished.

“Pleased to meet you, ma’m,” The stranger began in a silky smooth voice. “We sure are happy to have some work.”

Lizzy shook the hand that the man offered and internally scolded herself for judging her new hand.

Imagine being spooked by an attractive man with a pair of sky blue eyes. What’s wrong with me? Lizzy wondered.

“My name is Wickham. George Wickham. This here is Denny,” Wickham gestured to the tawny-haired bearded man on his left. “And this is Saunderson.” The small blond man nodded in acknowledgement.

“You all got settled in the bunkhouse, correct?” Lizzy asked.

“Yes, m’am, we sure did. Your father got us settled in last night. It was real nice to have a soft bed and a roof over our heads again after sleeping on the ground beneath the stars for so long. We surely do appreciate this chance,” Wickham assured her with a charming smile.

“Well, get your mounts and I’ll give you a quick tour of the ranch.”

Lizzy untied Austen’s lead from the hitching post and swung up into the saddle. When she turned she saw Wickham sitting comfortably on the large, sleek palomino that she had admired yesterday. Lizzy caught her breath at the image before her. A tall, rugged cowboy roaming the plains on his white horse. It was like something from her childhood fantasies.

Lizzy swallowed hard and regained control of her wayward thoughts as she rode over to Wickham.

“What a beautiful animal,” she admired. “What’s his name?”

“Younge,” Wickham replied. “I don’t know how I would survive without this boy. He keeps me company when I get lonely out there in the wide open spaces.”

The conversation paused as they left the stable yard riding beside each other. Denny was close behind on the appaloosa and Saunderson spurred his chestnut to catch up.

“Your mare is almost as lovely as her owner. May I make her acquaintance?” Wickham asked with a warm chuckle and a sideways glance.

Lizzy blushed lightly and responded, “You certainly may. This is Austen.”

“Pleased to meet you, Austen,” Wickham greeted the mare solemnly and then joined in with Lizzy’s trill of laughter as they rode out onto the open plains.

To Lizzy, suddenly, the sagebrush smelled sweeter, the breeze felt softer, the sun shone brighter, and the day was bursting with promise.

Chapter 4

Posted on Friday, 21 March 2003

Books were slammed shut, lunch pails banged, slates were snatched up and footsteps pounded as the crowd of students raced for the door. It was Friday afternoon and the children were anxious to escape the confines of the schoolhouse for the freedom of the weekend.

Soon the schoolhouse was empty. Jane wearily rolled her shoulders to ease the tension and began to clean the board. Kitty grabbed the broom and began to sweep out the room. It was their normal routine. However, this afternoon the sisters were not alone. Dr. Bingley stood by a table packing his medical supplies into his black bag.

The doctor had spent the last two afternoons at the schoolhouse examining the students. The examinations had been routine and he had treated the mild ailments that he had discovered. Just another two more ordinary days in the life of a physician. Well, they should have been ordinary, but something had severely disturbed Charles Bingley. For the first time in his a life a woman had managed to distract him from his work.

Not a woman, Bingley mentally corrected himself. An angel.

Miss Jane Bennet had thoroughly disturbed him and he was enjoying it. He had admired other women before and even performed some cautious courting, but never before had a woman addled him like Jane did.

Dr. Bingley regretfully closed the clasp on his black bag. His work here at the schoolhouse was done. After two blissful days in her constant presence he was to be deprived of even the sight of her.

What can I do? he wondered. I must see her again, but I don’t want to offend her by being forward. Better to be forward then to lose her completely, man.

Bingley was intently contemplating his dilemma when he heard footsteps behind him. He turned and saw Kitty and Jane behind him bonneted and ready to go.

“Dr. Bingley, thank you so much for taking the time to examine the children,” Jane thanked him prettily. “I am sure that their parents appreciate it,” she glance shyly down at her feet and then up again, “and I know that I do.”

Bingley just stared at her beloved face and smiled dreamily at her. Kitty coughed to conceal her laugh at the sappy spectacle before her.

“Goodbye, Dr. Bingley,” Kitty said and pushed the door open. Dan Whittier was leaning against the porch railing obviously waiting for something. He straightened up when he saw Kitty.

“Miss Bennet,” he cleared his throat and stared at his dusty shoes. “Would you take a walk with me? It’s a beautiful day and I saw some wild roses not far from here.” Dan looked pleadingly at Kitty and then at Jane.

Kitty turned and looked at Jane with a hopeful light in her eyes.

“All right, you two,” Jane relented. “Go and enjoy your walk, but Dan have her back in an hour so we can get back to the ranch before dusk.”

“Sure thing, Miss Bennet, and thanks.”

Dan took Kitty’s hand and led her away from town and into the tall prairie grass.

I wish I had that boy’s courage, thought Bingley as he faced Jane awkwardly. “What will you do while you wait Miss Bennet?”

“I think that I will walk down to the cafe and buy a cup of tea.”

Bingley sucked in a deep breath and gathered his nerve.

“Would you allow me to join you, Miss Bennet?” Bingley waited in unconcealed anxiety.

“Why Dr. Bingley, that would be delightful.” Jane smiled sweetly at the shy man before her.

“Shall we go then?” Without delay Bingley took Jane’s arm and escorted her down Main Street. He barely felt his feet touch the ground.

Bingley wished that he could make this afternoon last forever. It had been perfection. They had sat in the sunshine talking aimlessly about subjects he couldn’t even recall. Jane had sipped her tea and he had drunk his coffee. They had both been shy, but not awkward. She had even given him permission to call her by her first name. Perfection.

Jane thought she had stepped into a dream. It was perfection. Charles had told her stories of his life in Philadelphia and about his schoolboy adventures. He had made her laugh with his charming smiles and amusing conversation. It was impossible to feel uncomfortable with this man. Perfection.

Lydia had greeted them warmly, served their beverages, and wisely held her tongue for once. It was obvious to any observer that Miss Jane Bennet and Dr. Charles Bingley were completely absorbed with each other. Gossip was already spreading like wildfire.

Fortunately, for Bingley and Jane something more exciting was about to capture the citizens of Meryton’s attention.

The peace of the lazy afternoon was shattered by the sound of a galloping horse. Heads turned, necks craned, ears opened, and eyes grew wide as a lone rider appeared at the east end of Main Street.

At first there was simply a dark figure silhouetted against the wide Colorado sky, but as the horse and rider thundered down Main Street they began to become distinguishable. The massive ebony stallion hammered the ground with its heavy hooves. A large cloud of dust trailed the thoroughbred as he continued his rush through town. The magnificent beast halted in front of the hotel with a commanding jerk of the reins from his rider.

The rider was as dark and forbidding as his mount. The dark rider slid from the saddle and guided his horse to a water trough to drink. When the stallion had finished, the man tied him firmly to a nearby hitching post. Finally, the man slowly turned and faced the crowd of onlookers that had gathered.

His dark gaze burned directly through the citizens of Meryton as if they had ceased to exist. The crowd on the other hand meticulously studied the rider with a mixture of awe and horror.

He was an extremely large man with a solid muscular frame. He was clothed all in black from the crown of his hat to the toes of his polished boots. Crossing the street, still unconcerned or unaware of the peering eyes following his every move, his long stride was confident and determined. Every movement he made merely emphasized his barely restrained power.

Silver spurs jangled at his heels and his black scarf drifted behind him in the breeze. He stepped up onto the boardwalk and placed his hands on his hips as he observed his surroundings in silence. His relaxed stance pushed his coat back and revealed two pistols worn in a low-slung gun belt. Clearly, this man meant business.

The man tugged his hat off of his head and ran one large hand though his unruly chestnut curls. The planes of his face were smooth and looked like they had been hewn from polished marble. His eyebrows were dark slashes, followed by a patrician nose, and his pair of full lips were set in a grim line. He finally deigned to scan the curious crowd. Coffee-colored eyes visibly darkened with disdain and his jaw was set firmly in a somber frown. The man in black was not pleased.

The crowd watched the man in wonder. Who was this man and why was he here in Meryton?

However, to one person in the crowd the man in black was not a stranger.

Dr. Bingley placed enough money on the table to cover the bill and took Jane’s hand as he began to stand.

“Jane, I have had a lovely afternoon. I saw Kitty arrive a few minutes ago so our hour must be up. I hope I will see you again very soon. Please excuse me.”

Bingley gave Jane an embarrassed smile and turned to leave the café in a rush. Jane was a little startled at Charles’ abrupt departure, but understanding dawned as she watched him cautiously approach and greet the forbidding man in black.

No one was more shocked by the appearance of the man in black than Charles Bingley. At first Dr. Bingley had merely studied the man in fascination, but on closer inspection an odd sense of recognition flooded through him. A single glance into the stranger's dark eyes confirmed Bingley's suspicion. He knew this man....or at least he had at one time.

Bingley made his hurried farewell to Jane and left the cafe. Gently pushing his way to the front of the crowd, he soon stood face to face with the new arrival.

"Darcy?" Bingley asked, hesitation and disbelief clearly present in his voice and on his face.

The coffee-colored eyes coldly assessed the young doctor and then gradually warmed. Slowly, the tightly clenched jaw relaxed and a half smile softened the stranger's features.

"Hello, Bingley. It's been a long time," the man in black rumbled in deep resonant tones. He extended a large hand in greeting.

"Too long, my friend," Bingley exclaimed happily ignoring the outstretched hand in favor of an exuberant, but manly embrace.

Darcy pulled back first and quickly resumed his reserved manner. Bingley simply stood in the street beaming like a fool.

"So what are you doing here Bingley? Why the devil aren't you in Philadelphia?"

"I could ask you the same question, Darcy. I thought that you were in St. Louis."

Immediately, Darcy's eyes darkened, his jaw set, and a dark shadow spread across his face. Bingley took this as a signal not to continue this line of conversation, especially not in the middle of Main Street. Bingley quickly changed the topic to something he hoped would be neutral.

"How long will you be in town, Darcy, and where are you staying?"

"The length of my stay depends on many things," Darcy replied gravely. "I plan to get a room at the hotel for at least tonight."

"Nonsense, Darcy. You are staying at my house as my guest. You must stay a few days, at the very least." Bingley clapped Darcy on his broad shoulder and directed him toward his house and clinic at the end of the street.

"Caroline will be absolutely delighted to see you." Bingley glanced toward his friend and caught the slight shudder of revulsion that shot through Darcy's solid frame.

"Some things never change, Darcy." Bingley chuckled loudly and even Darcy allowed another slight smile to escape.

Chapter 5

Posted on Friday, 28 March 2003

At Longbourne, the dinnertime conversation was animated as the topic of discussion bounced between Jane and Dr. Bingley's afternoon and the arrival of the man in black.

"I knew how it would be," crowed Mrs. Bennet. "I knew that you were beautiful for a reason. I knew that you would catch Dr. Bingley."

"It was really quite shocking to see," Lydia interjected. "They just sat there mooning at each other over the table. Dr. Bingley is completely besotted."

Jane blushed bright red at the vivid, but accurate scene Lydia was describing.

"It all sounds rather scandalous. I would not accompany him again if I was you," advised Mary sagely.

"Who asked you, Mary?" shrieked Mrs. Bennet from the foot of the table. "Hold your tongue."

Lizzy watched her older sister with concern and empathized with her embarrassment.

Poor Jane .

"Oh pooh, don't worry, Jane." Lydia said as she slumped into her seat. "Everyone forgot all about you and Dr. Bingley after that stranger rode into town.

"A stranger?" queried Mrs. Bennet eager for some fresh gossip.

"Lord, yes. A dark, dangerous man on a fearsome stallion."

"Tell me more, Lydia." Mrs. Bennet was practically squirming in her chair with the mounting excitement.

"His horse was black as the sky at midnight and as swift as lightning. The man himself was massive, powerful, and terrifying. He spoke not a word."

"Lydia, that's not true," Jane asserted. "Dr. Bingley and the man had a conversation. The man is even staying with the Bingleys."

Lydia ignored Jane's protest and continued on with her dramatic narration as their mother urged her on.

"I think he must be an outlaw....or at least a gunfighter. He looked all too willing to use those silver pistols. I'll bet he’s the man who gunned down that judge in Denver and now he plans to hold up the Meryton Bank and make his escape into the mountains."

"Lydia, that's enough of your dramatics," Lizzy said with firm authority.

Mrs. Bennet shot Lizzy an angry look for spoiling her fun and Lydia stuck her tongue out at her older sister.

"Thank you Lizzy, for saving me from having to return order to the table," Mr. Bennet said with a stern glance at his wife and youngest daughter. "Now tell me, how did the three new hands work out today?"

"Very well, father. They all put in a hard day's work and seemed to know their tasks. I was very pleased, especially with Mr. Wickham. He is one of the most talented riders that I have ever seen. I enjoyed working with them today." Lizzy concluded her report with a small smile that did not go unobserved by Jane or her father.

"Lizzy, perhaps you might mix them in with the returning hands tomorrow, so that they can begin to meet the other men."

"An excellent idea, father. I also think that at least one of them should go on the small drive to Denver that's coming up. I think Mr. Wickham will be ready by then."

"Whatever you suggest, Lizzy. You know how much I trust your judgment. Do whatever you think is best."

Darcy was settling his horse in the small stable behind the clinic and silently listening to Bingley chatter on about his impressions of the West so far. Darcy noticed that Bingley’s voice grew even more animated whenever he mentioned anything about Meryton’s school. He filed that observation away for future reference.

Darcy was using the currycomb on the side of his stallion when he noticed that the other three stalls were all empty.

“Bingley, where is your horse?”

“I don’t have one, Darcy.”

“You don’t have one!” Darcy’s face was marked with disbelief. “You call yourself a Western man now and you don’t have a horse? Unbelievable. Bingley we shall remedy that fact first thing tomorrow.”

“Fine, I would appreciate your advice. I just don’t want a...a...a beast like your horse. I would be too terrified to walk beside him let alone ride him.” Bingley eyes widened in fear as he studied the stallion that was peacefully munching on oats.

A rich chuckled bubbled up from the depths of Darcy’s chest. Now he remembered why he had missed Bingley.

“Tempest is hardly a beast, Bingley. In fact, he is amazingly gentle.”

“Well, he still isn’t quite what I need,” Bingley stated doubtfully.

“Fine, Bingley. I will select a swaybacked old nag without a lick of spirit. Will that be satisfactory?” Darcy’s face looked completely serious, but his eyes revealed a mocking gleam at his friend’s expense.

“But...Darcy...surely there must be a happy medium,” Bingley cried piteously. His protests were in vain. Darcy had left the stable and was crossing to the house. Bingley ran to catch up.

Upon reaching the porch both men removed their hats and scraped their boots. Bingley opened the back door and turned to see Darcy hesitating on the porch behind him.

“Brace yourself, Darcy. The worst she can do is scream or faint,” Bingley joked.

“That’s what I’m afraid of,” Darcy said grimly.

The two men entered the house and crossed the hall to the parlor. A feminine scream rang out and a loud thud echoed through the house.

Darcy was settled in a comfortable armchair when Bingley trotted back down the stairs and into the parlor.

“You will be glad to hear that Caroline will recover. She is still in a state of shock, but she should be fine by morning. Actually, it is probably better this way,” Bingley laughed lightly. “I know that I predicted either a scream or a swoon, but I didn’t think she would do both. You aren’t that handsome, Darcy.”

Darcy couldn’t believe that Bingley was mocking his sister. However, he supposed that the situation was rather humorous.

“Would you like a drink before we eat?”

“Please.”

Bingley poured two whiskies, handed one to Darcy, and sank into the chair opposite his guest.

“I’ve missed you, Darce,” Bingley said suddenly serious.

“The feeling is mutual, Bingley. It’s been several years since we last saw each other.”

“It’s been eight years, at least,” Bingley insisted. “The last time we were together was right after graduation in Philadelphia. Those were great times. Do you remember our years at the university? Remember how we would stay up reading, studying, or just talking until dawn? We were practically inseparable, but then...Well, everything just changed.”

Bingley’s voice grew wistful as his mind drifted into the realm of memory.

“I know, Bingley,” Darcy said solemnly. “I am sorry that it had to be that way. After my parents died, I just couldn’t bear staying in Philadelphia especially with you going off to medical school in Boston. So I sold everything, took my law degree, and left with Georgiana for St. Louis. I needed a fresh start with no painful reminders.”

Darcy paused and took a deep breath. “I apologize that I never said goodbye, Bingley.”

Bingley was shocked to still see acute pain and grief reflected in the eyes of his friend.

Surely, after eight years he should have recovered from the tragic loss of his parents.

Bingley rose from his chair and crossed the room to place his hand on Darcy’s shoulder.

“I understood then, Darce, and I understand now.”

“Thank you, Bingley.”

The room was silent for a few minutes until Bingley introduced a new conversation.

“I told you all about moving my practice out here, Darce. Now tell me about your time in St. Louis and what you are doing here in Meryton.”

Darcy’s face remained stationary, but his eyes that had been filled with sadness were now ablaze with rage.

The same thing happened when I mentioned St. Louis in the street this afternoon. What happened there that precipitates this violent reaction in my friend? Bingley pondered.

Darcy cleared his throat and began to tell the story of his journey west.

“When Georgi and I got to St. Louis I bought a house and set up a small law practice. Within a few months, I learned that law books and courtrooms are useless any farther west than Ohio. Out here the law is determined by men with guns. It took me awhile to adjust to this concept of justice, but soon I had purchased a gun belt and a pair of pistols. I got damn good. Good enough that I was hired as sheriff in a small community outside of St. Louis called Ramsgate. I knew that my new position was dangerous so I left Georgi in a boarding school in St. Louis. It was close enough that she could spend her holidays with me and I could visit her often. Life was good, but then... well… I… just got restless, I guess, and I headed farther west. Georgi wanted to stay in school in St. Louis. I drifted from place to place doing various odd jobs and never staying in one place for very long. About two years ago, I made it to the Wyoming territory and discovered the prettiest spread of land that I had ever seen. I bought it, built a home on it, and now Georgi comes up there to spend her summers with me. Right now, I am working as the Indian agent to the Cheyenne in cooperation with the soldiers at Fort Laramie. It doesn’t pay much, but it’s rewarding.”

Darcy finished his story and took a drink of whiskey.

“It sounds like you have had quite a few adventures, but why are you here in Meryton?” Bingley asked.

“Oh, I took Georgi back to school and now I am just passing through on my way back home.”

“Of course,” Bingley said with a doubtful smile.

Something just isn’t adding up. What isn’t he telling me? What happened in St. Louis that has changed my friend and disrupted his life?

Bingley studied the man that he had once known so well, but now he remained a mystery.

Well, I can’t force him to tell me. I suppose that maybe in time...

With that final thought Bingley rose from his chair by the fire.

“Well Darcy, dinner must be ready because something sure smells good.”

Darcy rose to his full height, stretched once, and followed his rediscovered friend into the dining room.

Chapter 6

Posted on Saturday, 5 April

Lizzy gave Austen her head and the mare tore freely through the tall prairie grass. The morning breeze tugged at Lizzy’s curls until they tumbled wildly around her shoulders.

Is there any felicity in the world superior to this? Lizzy wondered as she felt Austen’s hooves beat the ground in time with her own heart. She felt completely and utterly free as they raced toward the sliver of sunshine shimmering on the far horizon.

By the time Lizzy slowed Austen’s pace, her face was flushed and her eyes were glowing with exhilaration. Lizzy guided Austen across a gulch and up the side of a low hill. There she dismounted and prepared to witness the birth of yet another day.

Although Lizzy normally enjoyed her solitude, this morning she was not alone. A lone dark figure was intently watching her daily ritual from the top of a rocky ridge. In fact, this rider had been enjoying his own morning ride when she had disturbed his peaceful contemplation. He had watched her race across the plains and admired the pure joy and passion that was evident in her riding. He had been profoundly disappointed when she had halted her horse and dismounted. Although he was quite a distance from her, he felt an unmistakable connection to her as they had gazed at the fiery sky before them.

Once the sun had begun its ascent, the rider turned his mount and headed to the base of the ridge.

“Come on, Tempest.”

The horse responded by breaking into a strong gallop as the dark pair sailed fluidly through the sage.

Breakfast at Longbourne held to the typical morning routine. The conversation was loud and lively as always. Only Lizzy noticed her father's dark mood and quiet behavior.

He must be thinking about ranch business. I hope that it's nothing serious.

As the meal concluded Mrs. Bennet bustled into the kitchen to consult with Hill and Mr. Bennet silently disappeared into his office. Jane, Kitty, and Lydia headed into town and Mary headed into the parlor with a basket of mending. Lizzy was ready to head out for the day when she heard her father call out to her.

"Lizzy, can I speak to you for a moment?"

As Lizzy entered the office she noticed the worry lines that marked her father's face, making him look considerably older.

"What is the matter, father? Is there something wrong with the ranch finances? You were so quiet at breakfast. It must be quite serious."

"Not too serious, Lizzy." Mr. Bennet managed a small smile for his favorite and very astute daughter. "Lewis Thompson rode over from his place this morning. He lost about fifty head to a group of rustlers last night. One of his hands was shot in the chest, but thankfully Dr. Bingley managed to patch him up."

"That's awful. We have never had any rustling in the area before. Do you want me to assign more men to the night watch?"

"That's a wise idea, Lizzy. Go ahead and inform the men to keep their eyes open for anything suspicious."

With that her father turned his attention to the ledgers on his desk. Lizzy took this as her sign to leave.

"Be careful, Lizzy," her father whispered so softly she could barely make out his words.

"Yes, father."

Caroline bustled around the dining room arranging flowers, creasing napkins, and assuring herself that the breakfast table was properly laid out. She had taken extra care with her appearance this morning. Her dark hair was pinned up in a complicated twist and she was wearing a melon-colored muslin dress which was brand new this season.

William Darcy will be unable to resist me. Caroline assured herself as she examined her face in the hallway mirror. I will have him for my husband.

The tread of boots on the staircase startled Caroline. She pinched her cheeks to a rosy pink and turned to the doorway in breathless anticipation. However, her smile vanished when instead of seeing the dashing figure of her intended prey she merely saw her own brother.

Bingley noted his sister's crestfallen expression with amusement and slumped tiredly into his seat at the head of the table.

"I am happy to see you too, Caro. I know that I am not as suave as Darcy, but surely you could wish your own brother good morning."

Bingley rubbed his hand across his bleary eyes and looked around the dining room.

"Very nice, Caro. You've really outdone yourself." Bingley said sincerely as he met his sister's pleased expression, but then a mischievous twinkle appeared in his eyes. "However, I must ask. What makes you think that you will succeed in catching Darcy now when you failed eight years ago? I hate to see such effort go to waste."

Caroline glared at her brother. "Oh, .......oh,........will you just shut up?"

The rear screen door creaked open and banged shut as Darcy returned from his morning ride. He scraped his boots off, hung his hat on a peg and strode into the dining room.

“Good morning, Charles. Caroline,” He said with an austere nod before sitting in furthest available seat from his hostess.

“Good morning, William,” Caroline smiled sweetly and fluttered her eyelashes rapidly in Darcy’s direction.

Darcy and Bingley merely began to fill their plates with eggs and bacon.

“I can’t tell you how thrilled I am to see you again. I know that it has been a long time, but it feels like yesterday that we were dancing together at my debut. What a happy time that was.”

Caroline smiled dreamily and returned to her monologue.

“I was quite shocked to see you yesterday especially in such an uncivilized part of the country. Charles and I are just delighted to renew our friendship with you. You are quite welcome to stay here with us for as long as you are in town. I certainly hope that you will stay in Meryton long enough for you and I to renew our past relationship. It would be a shame to be separated again after such a happy reunion.”

Darcy managed to conceal his shudder of revulsion and cleared his throat before making his response.

“I appreciate your hospitality, Caroline. I am unsure of how long I will be staying in Meryton. The length of my stay depends on several factors which are as of now undetermined.”

Darcy reached for his coffee cup and swallowed a large gulp of the steaming brew.

“Well then, I shall have to think of some way to keep you here, William. Surely, there is some way that I could induce you to stay?”

Darcy choked on his coffee and barely kept it from spraying out of his nostrils. Bingley witnessed his friend’s distress and decided to rescue Darcy from his sister’s attentions by changing the subject.

“I had a rather exciting night, Darcy. I was called out to a ranch in the wee hours of the morning.”

Darcy wiped his mouth and turned to Bingley with gratitude clearly evident in his dark eyes.

“What was wrong, Bingley?”

“It seems that a group of rustlers hit Mr. Thompson’s ranch last night and shot one of his cow hands in the process. A nasty chest wound, but at least the bullet went completely through the man. He lost a large quantity of blood, but I anticipate that he will make a complete recovery. Mr. Thompson estimates that he lost quite a few cattle and is quite worried that the rustlers may return.”

Darcy grunted in response and lifted a forkful of scrambled eggs to his mouth.

Caroline was disgusted that her brother had rudely changed the topic and stolen Darcy’s attention from herself, but there was little that she could do about it without breaking the rules of proper hospitality and domestic decorum. She crossed her arms in a petulant position and pouted over the fact that Darcy had failed to comment on her frock.

“It was my first major case here in Meryton and another step in my introduction to the ways of the West. I sure didn’t get to sew up many gunshot wounds at the clinic in Philadelphia.”

“Well Bingley, consider yourself lucky because you will probably get to sew up quite a few bullet holes if you stay out here. Guns are simply a means of communication.”

“Anyways, I will have to ride out later to check on the man. Why don’t you come with me, Darcy?”

“Charles, I hardly think that William wants to ride out on a house call with you on his first day in town. He can keep me company while I do the shopping and in return I will introduce him to all the town folks.”

Neither option really appealed to Darcy, but anything had to be better than spending the day with Caroline fawning over him.

“I think that I will ride out with you, Bingley. I am curious to hear more about this rustling incident, but first we had better buy you a proper horse.”

Darcy wiped his mouth on his napkin and pushed back from the table. Bingley took his friend’s cue and followed. The two men headed to the back door. Darcy left the house without looking back, but Bingley returned to wink cheekily at his sister.

“Thanks for breakfast, Caro.”

Then he pursed his lips in a merry whistle and bounded across the yard after Darcy.

Caroline, furious that her carefully constructed plans had been upset, threw her napkin on the table and let out a low scream of frustration.

Lizzy brought Austen to a halt beneath one of the large cottonwood trees that lined the edges of the South Platte, slowly dismounted and guided Austen down the river bank to drink. Meanwhile, Lizzy fumbled in her saddlebags to locate the lunch that Hill had made for her that morning. Leaving Austen to graze, Lizzy plopped down on the bank and tugged her boots off.

The atmosphere was extremely peaceful. The river gurgled as in meandered along and the song of a lark drifted on the breeze. Lizzy relaxed in the sun-dappled shade of the cottonwood tree and allowed her feet to dangle in the cool water. Lizzy had just unwrapped her sandwich when she was disturbed by approaching footsteps.

“May I join you, Miss Bennet? Or am I interrupting your solitary reverie?”

Lizzy glanced over her shoulder to see George Wickham addressing her in his silky voice with an amused gleam lurking in his clear blue eyes. In his hand, he carried his own lunch.

“You are indeed, Mr. Wickham, but that does not mean that the interruption is unwelcome.”

Lizzy smiled and motioned for him to sit beside her. He quickly responded by stretching his tall, lanky frame out on the bank with a satisfied sigh.

“I would be very sorry if it were. I hope that we will become very good friends.”

Wickham pulled off his own boots and his feet joined hers in the river. They both began to eat their lunches and a comfortable silence settled between them.

When she had finished eating Lizzy sank back in the grass with a contented sigh. From her vantage point she could easily watch her companion as he polished off the rest of his lunch.

Normally, Lizzy treasured her lunch break as a time of rest, but today she found that she was enjoying the company of the man beside her. She was savoring the simple pleasures of sharing lunch with their feet soaking in the cool stream.

Normally, I do not enjoy much company. I wonder why I feel differently with this man

Lizzy blushed slightly at her musings, but began to study his masculine features. His black hair curled at the nape of his neck. His jaw was freshly shaven and relaxed. His eyes had lost their wild gleam and now they were a dazzling midnight blue. He looked younger than when he had arrived and more carefree.

He certainly is a handsome man.

At that moment he turned his head and caught Lizzy staring at him in admiration. He grinned knowingly and Lizzy flushed in embarrassment. She sat up as she struggled to find a topic to break the now awkward silence.

“How are you enjoying your work here on Longbourne, Mr. Wickham?”

“Very well, Miss Bennet. The work is rewarding, the hands are all excellent men, and the scenery is beautiful.”

With this last comment, Wickham turned to her and allowed his gaze to slowly trace the curve of her face.

To Lizzy, his intense gaze seemed as tangible as a physical caress. She shivered and cherished the knowledge that he was not referring to the scenery at all.

“I am glad to hear that you are satisfied with Longbourne, Mr. Wickham.”

“Please call me George, Miss Bennet. Remember, that I hope to become your friend.”

George’s hopeful smile immediately melted Lizzy’s remaining reserve.

“In return, you must call me Lizzy.”

Lizzy extended her hand in an offer to seal their bargain with a friendly handshake.

“Friends, George?” Lizzy asked with a merry smile.

George reached out and gently clasped her small hand in his own larger one. However instead of retuning the shake that Lizzy had intended, George raised her hand and allowed his lips to lightly graze across her knuckles.

Lizzy sucked in a breath at the intimate gesture and raised her wide brown eyes to connect with his warm gaze.

“Friends, Lizzy.”

Wickham slowly released her hand and then lay back in the soft grass.

Lizzy shook her head gently to clear her muddled thoughts and fell back onto the bank again. The comfortable silence returned as they rested in the sweet smelling grass beneath the cottonwood trees.

Chapter 7

Posted on Friday, 11 April 2003, at

Early Saturday morning found the majority of the citizens of Meryton gathered at Abbey Mill Farm. The stable yard was packed with buggies, wagons, and horses as people arrived to help Robert Martin frame his new barn. It was to be a day of hard work followed by a night of celebration.

Thomas Bennet stopped his team in front of the main house and walked to the back of the wagon to help his daughters out of the wagon. He offered his hand to Jane and frowned slightly when Lizzy hopped to ground without waiting for his assistance. Mary, Lydia, and Kitty quickly joined their older sisters and filled their arms with the food and baked goods that Mary and Hill had prepared for the event. Finally, Mr. Bennet handed his wife down from her perch on the wagon seat, nodded at his family, and strode off to join the men that were mingling near the pile of lumber and supplies. Mrs. Bennet quickly shooed her girls over to the refreshment tables where the women of Meryton were chatting.

Lizzy knew that all of her sisters had been looking forward to today, but she had been secretly dreading it. Instead of enjoying the freedom and challenges of ranch work, she would be forced to endure a day of serving food to the men and listening to the mindless gossip of the women. Her apparel was also a source of discomfort. Her hair pins poked, her bonnet strings choked her, her dress hampered her movements, her stockings itched, her lace-up boots pinched, and her corset seemed to be cutting her in half. She longed for the freedom and comfort of her usual work clothes. However, she knew that she could not appear in a social setting dressed like that without embarrassing her father. With a resigned sigh she joined the gaggle of giggling women.

There was another individual that was dreading the upcoming day.

Darcy had tried every excuse and trick he could think of to avoid attending the barn raising, but to no avail. For once, Charles Bingley was determined and nothing was going to change his mind. So, Darcy found himself astride Tempest as he rode beside the rented buggy which carried Caroline and Charles.

“I hate these community gatherings.” Darcy grumbled under his breath. Especially when I barely know anyone. How did I let me Bingley talk me into this? He added to himself silently.

The arrival of Dr. Bingley’s party did not go unnoticed by the citizens of Meryton. Indeed, their response was quite the opposite. Conversation and motion instantly ceased. Many people in the crowd had not yet met the new doctor and his sister let alone their mysterious dark companion. As a result the trio came under renewed scrutiny. Fortunately, Mr. Lucas saw it as one of his mayoral duties to rush to the rescue by welcoming the new arrivals.

“Hey there, Dr. Bingley. We are just tickled pink that you have joined us today. Everyone is looking forward to getting to know you and your lovely sister.”

Mr. Lucas paused and smiled warmly at Caroline who deigned to make a curt nod in return. Dr. Bingley blushed slightly, embarrassed at his sister’s rude behavior. However, Mr. Lucas simply continued with his warm greeting.

“I hope that you are ready for your first barn raising.”

“I am, Mr. Lucas. In fact, I have been looking forward to it,” Bingley replied with a smile of his own.

“Capital. Capital.”

Out of the corner of his eye Mr. Lucas saw his wife glare at him and send a pointed glance over at his daughter. He received her message loud and clear and decided he had better act if he wanted to eat. He placed his work-roughened hand on the young doctor’s shoulder and began to guide him away from the carriage.

“Well then, Mr. Bingley. Come along and I will introduce you to some people. Perhaps starting with my family?”

“First Mr. Lucas, allow me to introduce my oldest friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy.”

With this statement Bingley turned to the dark man who stood behind him.

“Howdy, Darcy. Please to meet yuh.”

Darcy’s eyes darkened in a menacing glare.

Although Mr. Lucas had been oblivious to Caroline’s icy response, Darcy’s steely gaze was impossible to miss. Mr. Lucas wisely decided to forego the customary handshake and merely tipped his hat in greeting. Eager to lighten the suddenly tense atmosphere, Mr. Lucas quickly turned and led Bingley and Caroline into the crowd. Darcy knotted Tempest’s lead to a fence post and counted to ten before facing the throng of curious people before him.

Lizzy made the expected small talk and mouthed the required greetings before she hastily claimed a seat on one of the wooden benches. Loosening her bonnet strings, she positioned herself so she could observe everything that was going on in the farmyard. Mr. Martin was beginning to organize the men into work teams so that the construction could begin when the sound of an approaching buggy drew the attention of the crowd.

Lizzy turned her head to see a fashionable buggy drive into the yard followed by a massive ebony stallion. The buggy contained a young blond man and a tall woman who was wearing a bright orange dress that was much too formal for the day’s events. The stallion’s rider was a large, powerfully built man who was clothed in a jet black ensemble. Lizzy watched as Mr. Lucas abandoned his work team and waddled toward the trio. Lizzy also noticed that Jane seemed to be suddenly staring at the ground and her cheeks looked unusually pink.

Having completely taken in the scene, Lizzy sat back and exercised her quick wit to reach a multitude of deductions. First, Mr. Lucas was obviously acquainted with the new arrivals. Secondly, the blond man must be Dr. Bingley and the orange clad woman his sister, Caroline. Thirdly, the mysterious rider must be the man in black who was reportedly staying with Dr. Bingley and finally, that Jane seemed to like Dr. Bingley a great deal more than she had let on.

Lizzy’s deductions were confirmed when she heard Mr. Lucas greet the new doctor in his loud, jovial manner. Lizzy continued to observe the exchange between Dr. Bingley and Mr. Lucas, but found that her mind was quickly drawn back to the only remaining mystery.

Who was that man in black?

He had dismounted and now stood slightly behind Dr. Bingley. Lizzy made a thorough perusal of his person hoping to find a clue to his identity. She was unsuccessful in her search, but she was still unable to pull her attention from the man. Something about him captured and held her interest.

Maybe I am merely preoccupied by his dark, good looks? Or perhaps it is the aura of mystery and power that surrounds him? Wait a minute…I know, it’s his horse. Lizzy chuckled to herself as she continued to study the man.

He was undeniably intimidating and the gun belt around his waist simply increased the shadow of fear cast by his forbidding presence. His posture was stiff and his eyes steadily scanned his surroundings as if some danger lurked within the stable yard waiting to attack. His broad shoulders and muscular frame testified that he could take care of himself and was in no need of assistance from anyone. Yet as he stood there silhouetted by the morning sun, somehow he looked alone and strangely vulnerable.

Lizzy was pondering this odd thought when she was summoned to her mother’s side with her usual, but not so subtle, wink. Jane was already beside her and enduring their mother’s numerous observations on the many charms of Dr. Bingley and his sister. Regretfully putting all thoughts of the man in black out of her head, Lizzy went to rescue her sister.

Bingley and Caroline followed as Mr. Lucas ushered them across the yard and into the swarm of chattering females. Darcy reluctantly abandoned Tempest and intrepidly strode into the sea of simpering femininity.

Mr. Lucas stopped beside a plump older woman and a tall, rather plain girl.

“Dr. Bingley, this is my wife, Agnes, and my daughter, Charlotte.”

“Pleased to meet you, Mrs. Lucas. Miss Lucas.”

Bingley smiled at the two women and then turned to Caroline.

“Allow me to introduce my sister, Caroline, and my oldest friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy.”

Caroline executed a perfect curtsey and Darcy tipped his hat. Neither said a word.

At this point the introduction was interrupted by the arrival of Mrs. Bennet. Jane and Lizzy had attempted to prevent their mother’s rude behavior, but to no avail. Mrs. Bennet was determined to meet Dr. Bingley now.

“Good morning, Mrs. Lucas. Charlotte.” Mrs. Bennet greeted the ladies in a rush, completely ignored Caroline, and then turned her undivided attention to the young doctor.

“Oh, you must be Dr. Bingley. I am Mrs. Bennet.”

Bingley was quite shocked by the abrupt intrusion of this strange woman until he discovered her connection to his beloved Jane and then she was instantly forgiven. Surely, the woman that had given birth to such an angelic creature could not be that awful.

“You are quite welcome in Meryton, Sir. We have needed a doctor so badly. I was just telling Mrs. Lucas the other day….”

At this point, Bingley ceased to listen to Mrs. Bennet’s shrill observations and instead began the much happier pursuit of searching for Jane. He saw her standing beside another girl, but Bingley failed to notice her companion. He could only stare at Jane as she blushed under his worshipful gaze.

Dr. Bingley’s inattention did not go unnoticed by Mrs. Bennet, especially when he failed to respond to several of her questions. She turned to find the source of his distraction and was overjoyed to see that the object of his attention seemed to be her eldest daughter. In fact, the young doctor looked completely besotted. Good work, Jane. What a catch and after only one meeting! I can see an April wedding now… I always knew that she could not be so beautiful for nothing.

“Dr. Bingley, you must come and meet my daughters!”

Dr. Bingley was jolted back to reality by the sound of Mrs. Bennet’s voice speaking loudly right beside his ear. To his amazement she had the audacity to take his arm and practically drag him toward Jane. He could have attempted to resist Mrs. Bennet, but why bother when every step was carrying him closer to his beloved.

“This is Jane, my eldest, but I believe that you two have already met.”

“Hello, Jane.” The warmth in Bingley’s eyes was evident in his voice as he studied the way her blue dress emphasized Jane’s cornflower colored eyes.

Jane glanced down at her shoes and managed to whisper a response.

“I am delighted to see you again. I want to apologize for my quick exit last week, but the arrival of my friend was quite unexpected.”

“Oh, that is quite alright, Dr. Bingley. I completely understand.”

Bingley’s heart swelled as Jane met his eyes with a sweet, understanding smile.

Mrs. Bennet twisted her hands in pure delight. One daughter down, four more to go. Her hopeful attention was quickly drawn to Dr. Bingley’s dark friend. To this end, she continued with the introductions.

“This is Elizabeth.” She gestured to the cheerful looking brunette beside Jane. “Mary is over there at the dessert table and Kitty and Lydia are busy greeting some of the other men.”

“Yes, I had the pleasure of meeting Miss Kitty last week at the schoolhouse. I have enjoyed getting to know everyone here in Meryton.”

“I understand that this is your first barn raising, Dr. Bingley. Is that true?”

“Yes, Mrs. Bennet. I am quite excited to be here. I am looking forward to a day of hard work and good food.”

“But Dr. Bingley, you failed to mention the dancing!” Mrs. Bennet was truly scandalized. “The dancing is the highlight of any barn raising. We must be sure that you enjoy your first barn raising to the fullest.”

“Thank you, m’am. Perhaps, Jane will consent to be my teacher for this new western experience,” Bingley said with gentle teasing evident in his voice.

“Is this your friend’s first barn raising as well?” Mrs. Bennet asked forwardly. “Perhaps I could find a companion for you as well, Mr. Darcy.” Mrs. Bennet nudged Lizzy forward with a predatory grin.

Darcy had reached the end of his patience with this woman’s tedious prattle. Something had to be done.

“Thank you Mrs. Bennet, but I am quite capable of finding my own way and my own company.” Having said his piece, Darcy turned abruptly and retreated to the sanctuary of the fence post beside Tempest.

The small group watched Darcy’s exit with a variety of reactions. Caroline immediately rushed to his side to console him. Bingley bade the Bennets an embarrassed goodbye and went to rescue his friend from the zealous attentions of his sister. Jane drifted in a dreamy cloud of contentment while Mrs. Bennet huffed her displeasure and quickly sought the company of several other women to vent her frustrations. Lizzy rejoiced in his ability to stand up to her mother, laughed at his poor manners, and was slightly offended at how quickly he had refused her company.

A myriad of emotions swirled through the assembled group as the real work of the day began.

As the sun sank behind the Rocky Mountains, the citizens of Meryton cleared the tables, shed their hats and bonnets, and gathered in the newly framed barn to the sound of tuning fiddles. Soon, skirts swirled and boots stomped in rhythm to lively tunes.

As soon as work on the barn had ended, Dr. Bingley had quickly claimed a seat beside Jane at the supper tables. Now he swept her smoothly across the floor as Mrs. Bennet looked on with greedy glee shining in her eyes. Caroline had plastered herself to Mr. Darcy’s side and practically dragged him on to the dance floor. Lizzy was dancing with Joseph Miller, Kitty and Dan swayed together, and Lydia romped energetically with Frank Churchill. To her mother’s shame, Mary sat by herself without a partner despite the supreme flaky tenderness of her pie crusts.

About an hour into the dancing the fiddlers stopped for a break. The dancers dispersed in search of cool drinks. Joseph Miller escorted Lizzy to the refreshment table where she took a glass of lemonade and retreated to a bench along the far wall. She had just taken a small sip of her lemonade when she was joined by Charlotte. The two young women carried on a pleasant conversation about the events of the day while they continued to watch the crowd of people before them.

Lizzy saw that Jane and Dr. Bingley were enjoying their cookies and lemonade at a table in the corner. Both of their faces glowed with the obvious pleasure they found in one another’s company. Lizzy was delighted that her dear sister had finally found an amiable and charming man. If only there were such another man for me, she thought wistfully. Well, not exactly like Dr. Bingley for we would not suit at all. I need someone who is my equal it wit and determination. Perhaps George Wickham could be that man?

Lizzy was startled from her musings when Joseph Miller approached once again as the dancing resumed. Joseph glanced between her and Charlotte and seemed to be fighting in an inner battle with himself. Eventually, he turned and asked Charlotte to dance. Lizzy was aware that Charlotte had spent most the evening sitting alone on the edge of the dance floor. Lizzy appreciated Joseph’s thoughtful gesture and returned his apologetic smile when he led Charlotte out onto the floor. My feet are tired anyway.

During her chat with Charlotte and her observations, Lizzy had failed to notice that Mr. Darcy had finally stopped his restless roving and stationed himself in the shadowed corner to her right. Lizzy only became aware of his presence when she saw that Dr. Bingley was crossing the floor in her direction. At first she thought that he was coming to speak to her, but he passed by her with nothing more than a polite nod and smile. When Lizzy turned her head to see where he was going, she finally saw Mr. Darcy standing in the shadows behind her.

Hell. This has to be what hell is like, Darcy grumbled internally to himself. The evening had been pure torture. At the beginning of the night he had been forced to endure the suffocating attention of Caroline, the admiring leers of ambitious young females, and the incessant buzz of whispered speculation. However, Mrs. Bennet’s embellished version of his encounter with her and his refusal to join in the dancing soon resulted in other equally painful consequences. He still had to deal with Caroline, but now he was the target of numerous disdainful glares and the sound of mocking laughter assailed his ears. Even Bingley had deserted him for his blond angel. In an attempt to preserve his dignity and to avoid more ridicule, Darcy had retreated behind an insurmountable fortress of reserve and sought sanctuary in the shadows.

Darcy thought that he had successfully escaped for the remainder of the evening until he saw Bingley coming toward him. Bingley’s face was aglow with joy and his trademark smile as he greeted Darcy with a warm chuckle and a manly slap on his shoulder.

“Darcy, what on earth are you doing skulking here in the corner? Come and dance.”

“No, Bingley.”

“You have only danced with Caroline tonight and I know that you couldn’t have really enjoyed that! Now come and dance!”

“I will not.” Darcy set his jaw and crossed his arms in a stance of firm resolution.

“Why ever not?” Bingley’s eyebrows lifted and his jaw dropped in disbelief.

“Dance with these people! You must be drunk.”

“Darcy, you know for a fact that I am perfectly sober.”

“Are you?” Darcy asked with feigned doubt.

“You are just trying to change the subject. I know you too well, Darce.” Bingley said with a pleased smirk. “I haven’t had a drop of alcohol tonight, but …I may be drunk on love.” Bingley sighed blissfully and looked across the room to where he had left Jane.

“I hadn’t noticed,” Darcy stated dryly.

Darcy’s sarcasm was completely lost on Bingley.

“Come man, admit it. She’s an angel!”

“She smiles too much.”

“You are hopeless, Darcy.” Bingley laughed and shook his head at his friend’s stubbornness. “Still Darcy, you must come and dance!”

Bingley glanced around the room to find a suitable partner for his friend. He was in the middle of his search when he remembered that Elizabeth was seated just a short distance away.

“Come on, Darcy. There is one of Jane’s sisters. She is very pretty, too. I am sure that she would make you a charming dancing partner. Now get over there and ask her to dance!” Bingley nudged his reluctant friend in her direction.

Darcy allowed his gaze to quickly skim over her features.

“She is tolerable I suppose, but not pretty enough to tempt me.” The volume of Darcy’s voice began to climb with his rising agitation. “I am in no mood to dance with a wallflower! Go back to your partner. Enjoy her smiles. You are wasting your time with me.”

“Fine, Darcy. Have it your way.”

Darcy watched as Bingley happily returned to Jane’s side. Out of the corner of his left eye he caught a movement. The Bennet girl that he and Bingley had just been discussing had risen from her seat and crossed the room to rejoin Miss Lucas at the refreshment table.

Darcy followed her progress with his eyes and watched as she began whispering animatedly to her companion.

Surely, she couldn’t hear what we were discussing over the music!

As soon as this thought has entered his mind, the young woman raised her eyes to directly meet his gaze. She stared back unflinchingly.

She had heard.

He watched her whisper something else which resulted in heartfelt laughter from Miss Lucas. She met his gaze once again as her mouth turned up in a mocking grin and a laughing challenge filled her eyes.

Darcy knew without a doubt that she was laughing at him.

Continued In Next Section