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Chapter 22
Darcy's exultation could not be constrained to the confines of his library. He literally burst out the door of his townhouse and walked briskly into a nearby park to stride down the walks and avenues. It was a simple note to be sure, but he read it over and over again. The ribbon did not leave his hand. It was the most precious gift he had ever received. It was an invitation from Elizabeth to love her once again.
As the excitement of the moment wore off, he began to doubt himself. Perhaps she just wanted to be on good terms with him again. Perhaps it was merely a token of friendship. Then he remembered the significance of that ribbon when they were together at the stream, when he kissed it, and then her. There was no mistaking her meaning then, therefore, there could be no mistaking it now. There could be no two opinions about it. She still loved him.
After taking a few more minutes to compose himself, he returned home and began making the arrangements for an immediate removal to Netherfield. If he left now, it would be after dark by the time he arrived in Hertfordshire. This would be unsafe as well as inconvenient to the Bingleys, and certainly Elizabeth should be given notice of his coming. He would, however, announce to them his imminent arrival, and so he penned two letters.
LondonBingley,
I am taking the liberty of traveling to Hertfordshire in the morning to call on you, and more specifically, to wait on Miss Bennet. She has communicated to me her wish to see me and I will answer it immediately.
Please extend my warmest thanks to your wife. I know she has been intimately involved in all the particulars that have occurred that will make my presence in Hertfordshire not unwelcome to Miss Bennet.
I wait for the morning with eagerness and impatience, as you may well understand. I look forward to seeing you all.
Yours, &c.,
Fitzwilliam Darcy
The second note was much shorter, though perhaps more to the point.
Dearest Elizabeth,I will be there before dinner tomorrow. Please forgive me.
All my love,
Fitzwilliam
Early the next morning a servant delivered two letters to Netherfield. Both were given to Mr. Bingley. With pleasure he read the one addressed to him, which announced Darcy's imminent arrival. Bingley had expected that Darcy would come once his wife had told him that Elizabeth had sent him a note. Though he was unaware of the contents of her letter, he knew it would bring Darcy to Netherfield and had therefore instructed Mrs. Thomas to prepare Darcy's usual bedchamber.
After a moment of deliberation, he decided that Jane would be best suited to deliver the letter that was addressed to Elizabeth. He sought out his wife and gave her both letters. They exchanged a kiss, and then she went directly to her sister.
Jane found Elizabeth in her bedchamber.
"Lizzy, I have news for you!" cried Jane. "Two letters have arrived from Mr. Darcy, and one is addressed to you!"
The color drained from Elizabeth's face for a moment.
Jane offered the letters to Elizabeth. "Here. There is one for you and another for Charles that he thought you might like to read, also."
"Oh, Jane," said Elizabeth as she took the letters.
"I will leave you alone to read your..."
"Oh, no!" interrupted Elizabeth. "I want you here with me, Jane. Please, stay."
Jane smiled and sat down on the bed next to Elizabeth and watched her as she opened the letter and began to read. She could tell by the expression on her face that it brought welcome news.
"Jane, all is well! He loves me!" cried Elizabeth, clasping the letter to her heart.
"Of course he does, Lizzy!" replied Jane, embracing her. "How could he not?"
Jane's sense of relief was great. For the first time since Elizabeth's fall Jane felt she had done the right thing.
Elizabeth unfolded the letter addressed to Mr. Bingley and read it.
"Jane," she cried, "he is coming today!"
Elizabeth spent the rest of the morning in a nervous agitation of spirits. Always on watch for a carriage, she waited impatiently in the drawing room, alternately looking out each window.
Finally, for Elizabeth's peace of mind and to give her something to do, Jane encouraged her to walk out for a while. Mr. Darcy could not possibly arrive for another hour or two and she would send for her immediately on his arrival if she were not back. Elizabeth agreed to anything that would help pass the time.
"Where will you walk, Lizzy?" Jane asked knowingly. "To the stream?"
Elizabeth could not hide her smile. "Yes, Jane, I believe I will."
Darcy had anticipated that his journey to Netherfield would be tedious and long. Fortunately, he was wrong. The whole time his thoughts were filled with memories of Elizabeth from his first discovery of her on the path, through all the joy they shared together during her recovery, and finally when he kissed her by the stream. He was unable to put from his mind the images that he had created of what Elizabeth must have felt and looked like when she learned of his sudden departure from Netherfield the morning after that kiss. Seared into his very being were the events of the night when he last saw Elizabeth. He was jealous at the thought of Mr. Grinly touching her and knew that as soon as he was able, he would kiss all remembrances of him from her lips.
In a shorter time than he thought possible, the carriage pulled up in front of Netherfield. Alighting from the coach, he breathed in the fresh scent that he had come to associate with Hertfordshire. Feeling his anxiety rise, he approached the door with cautious steps, but before he could knock, it was thrown open by Mrs. Bingley who welcomed him to Netherfield with such sincerity and warmth that told him that she no longer bore him any ill will.
"Mr. Darcy," cried Jane, "you are very welcome! We have been awaiting your arrival all day."
"Thank you for the welcome and for all that you have done," Darcy said gratefully. "Mrs. Bingley, I have no doubt that your husband was speaking for you in his letter."
Jane responded with a smile.
He continued. "I am grateful for the invitation." He hesitated and looked around for a moment.
"Elizabeth," said Jane with an amused smile, "is out walking."
She could see his disappointment.
"But," Jane went on, "she has asked me to call for her just as soon as you arrive. Perhaps you will oblige me and go for her yourself?"
She felt it fortunate that Elizabeth was still away from the house, and that by sending Darcy for her, they could enjoy some time alone.
He laughed. "I would be very happy to, as you are well aware."
"Indeed I am, sir. I believe there is a small stream of water nearby with which you may be intimately acquainted?"
"I am," he answered, realizing that Elizabeth must have told Mrs. Bingley about their encounter.
"She is there now, sir," Jane smiled. "Go to her. She has been waiting for you for a very long time."
The meaning of her words and the tone of her voice did not escape him. He looked at her apologetically.
"I promise you, Mrs. Bingley, that I will never do anything that will ever bring her pain again."
Jane sighed. "Thank you for your assurances. Now go."
After watching Darcy quickly descend the steps and hurry off behind the house, Jane returned indoors and thought with pleasure on the future happiness of her sister. That Darcy was the one man who could bring joy into Elizabeth's life did not admit of a doubt, and that both he and Elizabeth finally understood this, relieved Jane of a great deal of remorse. The misery of watching Elizabeth suffer over the past weeks had been awful. She knew the next time she saw Elizabeth she would be smiling again, and for this Jane was exceedingly grateful.
Darcy knew exactly where Elizabeth would be and moved expeditiously in that direction. He slowed his pace as he came to the small clearing by the stream savoring the anticipation of seeing her again.
He pushed through the edge of the woods and looked down the stream.
And there she was!
My Elizabeth!
He had never seen a sight so beguiling as she looked just then sitting on the rocks dangling her fingers in the water. For a moment he was transported back to when this scene had played itself out before. He knew this time it would end differently.
She was humming a tune to herself as she trailed her hand through the water. She had let her hair down and it cascaded across her shoulders, partially shielding her face from his view. Her movements were graceful and the sound of her voice was enticing. His breath caught in his throat as he understood the intimacy of what he was witnessing. This was Elizabeth in her true environment, outside and at peace. Her hair would not be down unless she was certain that she would not be seen. Yet she had told Mrs. Bingley where she could be found.
Elizabeth had done this for him. She knew he would come for her and desired that he find her just as she was - innocently in love, free from deception and willing to give herself to him in heart and body.
When he left Hertfordshire he was convinced that he would never see her again and now, here she was waiting for him. As he watched Elizabeth, he sensed a feeling of increasing anticipation about her. She was waiting for him. He felt the heat of desire and love for her burning within him. Her wait would soon be ended, and to prevent her alarm, he gently spoke her name.
"Elizabeth."
The water looked fresh and inviting, and for just a moment Elizabeth nearly forgot the reason she was there. Nearly.
Mr. Darcy was coming.
She stepped over to a familiar rock and sat upon it, letting her fingers fall into the water. She wet both hands and wiped her face, chilled for a moment as the water dried in the gentle breeze. She took her hairpins out and combed her fingers through her hair. The breeze pushed a few curls across her face.
This time, as well as on all prior visits to this place, her thoughts drifted back to being found here by Mr. Darcy. She could not recall the words they had exchanged. All she could remember was how he drew near to her and closed the distance between them. Soon he was sitting by her, then touching her hand, then holding her, then kissing her. It was beyond familiarity. It was a study in intimacy. It was need. She needed him, and he had been there.
Now, once again, she needed him, and he was coming. It was while she was engaged in this happy memory that her reverie was broken by a familiar voice pronouncing her name.
Her whole body tensed at the sound.
She was still for a moment, neither speaking nor moving, as she calmed herself. Despite the pleasure she felt at his arrival, there was apprehension and uncertainty. She had been at this place with him before and had left it with assurances of his love, but then he had broken her heart.
"Is it really you?" she asked. Elizabeth withdrew her hand from the water and dried it on the skirt of her dress.
"Yes," answered Darcy.
"Why are you here?" Her voice was soft and he strained to hear her.
"I have come to claim you as my own."
Elizabeth felt a diffusion of warmth overspread her body. Summoning her courage she looked up at him and saw such an expression of love and yearning that immediately put to rest any doubts she had of his regard and calmed her fears and uncertainty concerning his intentions towards her.
"Elizabeth, you must forgive me," he begged. "I have been wracked with guilt and torment from the moment I left you. There has been no peace in my life and no hope for happiness until I received Bingley's letter telling me you had not...that you were not..."
"...married." she concluded for him.
"Yes. I know that you have suffered because of my foolish desire to submit to the expectations of other people."
She had hardly spoken a word and he did not feel he could approach her. His only immediate reassurance was in the ribbon. He slipped his hand into his pocket and drew strength from it.
"What expectations were those, Mr. Darcy?" she asked.
"I have lived much of my life striving to earn the love and affection of my father," explained Darcy. "Doing so became a habit that did not end with his death. On the subject of marriage he was most clear. He did not believe I could be happy if I did not marry a woman of equal fortune, connections and rank. I had never felt loved by my father. After my mother died, he barely showed me he was aware of my existence. This was the only request he ever made of me. I longed to be loved by him and I promised to never do anything of which he would not approve."
So this had been his motivation, thought Elizabeth, in striving to persuade Bingley from marrying Jane.
"Then, Mr. Darcy, I ask you again, why are you here?" The feeling of pain and rejection was beginning to burn in her heart again.
"I have learned that all that matters in a marriage is love, Elizabeth. Having arrived at this knowledge, I resolved immediately to return to this place, beg your forgiveness and seek to win your affection. As I was preparing to leave London, a servant gave me a letter from Bingley announcing your engagement to Mr. Grinly."
He turned away from her as he once again experienced the agony of that moment.
With a pained tone in his voice, he added, "I know that by leaving you without explaining myself, I drove you into the arms of another man."
She raised her hand quickly to her chest. "Please, sir, do not speak of that. It is painful to me, also. I hurt Mr. Grinly deeply and that knowledge weighs heavily on my conscience."
Elizabeth offered her hand to Darcy. He took it and sat down near her.
"You must forgive me, Elizabeth, indeed, you must. I hope that by explaining my actions I can begin to prove myself worthy of you at last. Please, Elizabeth, I am not beyond redemption," he begged.
She bit her lip, then looked up at him until meeting his eyes, she turned hers away. Had she not taken his hand with both of hers, he would have thought his suit was hopeless.
He had to speak. He had to convince her of his love.
"Elizabeth, I was a fool. I was wrong. I was seeking acceptance from a long dead parent who could do nothing for me, and in so doing, denied to myself the happiness I could have enjoyed with you. But that was not the worst part. You had entrusted your heart to me and I failed you and left you in pain."
He moved as if to take back his hand back but she would not release it.
Darcy continued. "Elizabeth, I beg that you will forgive me."
She looked up at him. "I have long forgiven you, sir," she said as she began to caress his hand. Then lowering both her eyes and voice, added, "and now I seek your pardon."
"Elizabeth, you have done nothing wrong."
"I have been so unwise," she cried in disgust of herself, "so weak and inconstant!"
"Elizabeth," he replied softly, "to whom should you have remained constant? To a man you were convinced did not return your love?" Darcy knew he was not the same man now as the one who had rejected her. The thought was incomprehensible.
"Fitzwilliam, I had hoped to forget you, but I could not. I did not love Mr. Grinly," she went on, "but thought that, in time, I might. He is a good man, and I loved his daughter very much. He offered me a good life and a good home. He was devoted to me, though there were never any feelings of passion. There was no craving or desire, and I realized the night I met you at Netherfield that there never would be, because I was still very much in love with you."
"Then why did you send me away?" Darcy shook his head as he sought for understanding. "I would have married you instantly, Elizabeth."
"Because I had pledged myself to Mr. Grinly. I had accepted his offer. You had hurt me and I felt rejected by you," she said, sensing his confusion, "and I was scared to expose my heart to more pain. Because I did not love Mr. Grinly, I knew he could not hurt me in the same way. When Mr. Grinly realized that I was still in love with you, he insisted that our engagement be ended because he could see that I already belonged to you and that he could not make me happy."
He took her hand and held it to his lips.
"I wept as I left Netherfield, Elizabeth," he said dejectedly. "I was overwhelmed by the pain of having lost you. It was unendurable seeing you with another man." She felt him shudder as he spoke.
"I knew that you would be pained when you learned I had left Netherfield without seeing you that night, but I could not have done otherwise. I had not the courage to face you. Please forgive me, Fitzwilliam."
"Please, Elizabeth, let us try to put our pain behind us. We have both made mistakes. We have both sought and received forgiveness. All that matters now," he said resolutely and with a smile, "is that we are together."
The past had been discussed enough. Elizabeth wanted to know what the future might hold.
"Oh, Fitzwilliam, what will become of us?" she asked with some hesitation.
He reached up and began to caress her cheek with his fingers, drawing lazy circles over her delicate skin. She closed her eyes to take in the sensations he was creating inside her, delighting in the warmth and security they contained.
"Elizabeth," he said softly. Her eyes opened and she saw him slowly move toward her, and gently resting his arm around her shoulders, drew her near him and brushed her lips with his own.
"Elizabeth," he repeated, his lips caressing her cheek as he spoke. "There is no future for me without you."
Firmly, and in such a manner as bespoke neither hesitation nor uncertainty, he folded her in his arms and kissed her lips
His kiss communicated all his passion and yearning. It spoke of the heartache he had suffered at her loss and told of the regret he felt in having hurt her. It was filled with anticipation for a happy future that would be happy only if it included her. It was a kiss of healing. It was a kiss of love.
She nestled up against him, lacing her hands around his waist and holding him tightly. Out of the relief of having the unknown revealed, the waiting ended and her love rewarded, she softly cried.
He was alarmed because he did not understand her feelings, and could only hold her and comfort her. When she could speak, she settled every discomfort he was feeling.
"Fitzwilliam," she whispered, "I am so happy."
Relief swept through him.
"And so am I," he smiled. "Elizabeth, I have discovered what it is like to be truly alone, to be cold and desolate, and it is frightening. I have seen you with another man and I thought I would be consumed with feelings of rage and jealousy. There is no one I cherish as much as I do you. Your gentle heart, understanding spirit, your witty intelligence and elegant beauty are things I cannot live without. I adore you, Elizabeth. My whole life depends on you and on your answer to this question. Elizabeth, my love, will you marry me?"
Through his kisses she breathed the answer he longed to hear.
"Yes, Fitzwilliam, I will."
He had dreamt of this moment from the time that he had received her ribbon. The feelings of being complete, of being whole again, that coursed through his body filled him with an assurance of her love and forgiveness. Never had he understood the depth of his own love for her as he did at that moment.
"I love you, Elizabeth," he whispered. "You are everything to me."
"And I love you," she said. And she did. All her hopes for happiness were accomplished with him.
"Fitzwilliam, you said that you knew what it is to feel frightened and truly alone. I never want either of us to feel that way again. You must promise me that we will never part. Now that we have found each other, I never want to be without you," she whispered as she buried her face in his chest.
Darcy was immediately concerned by the worry that resonated in her voice.
"Elizabeth, I..."
"I never want to be without you again. You must promise me," she said firmly.
"I do," he said. And taking her hand and looking deeply into her eyes, he said, "Elizabeth, I promise never to leave you. My heart aches that you feel you have to ask me. I wish never to be apart from you. I promise to love you with all my heart. I will share with you all my possessions, all my time and all my thoughts. You are my hope and my dreams. My future is yours and I will endeavor everyday to make it happier than you could ever imagine."
She looked at him with an expression of gratitude. "And I give myself to you, Fitzwilliam."
They were each silent for a moment as they considered with happiness the commitment they had just made to each other. It was as natural as life itself and they both felt it had been too long in coming.
"In a week, I can procure a special license in London and we can be married. I can leave this very day and..."
"Please, Fitzwilliam, let me come with you to London," she interrupted. "There must be something that can be done that will allow us to remain together. There must be a way."
She looked at him with eyes full of entreaty and then of resolve.
"Fitzwilliam, I know! I will ask Jane to take me to our Aunt Gardiner in London and I will be able to see you every day."
Darcy agreed. The problem was resolved. They would not spend another day without each other, and soon they would not spend another night.
The lovers sat quietly by the stream, each enjoying their newfound understanding in their own way. Oftentimes words are not necessary between those who love, and this was just such a moment. In her mind, there was a sense of peace and certainty. In his, a determination to make up to her for all the pain he had caused by loving her in every way that he could. He had no objection to taking her to London. Being separated from her for even a day would never be his choice. Indeed, he was thrilled that she wanted to accompany him.
Releasing her hand, he reached up and began to trace the outline her chin, her cheeks and her lips with his fingers. He saw such a look of love and passion in her eyes that testified to him that she truly had forgiven him, that all the pain must be forgot and that only happiness would fill their future together.
Her breathing was stilled by the touch of his fingers on her skin. She felt it like a thunderbolt, and it was impressed on her mind in such a way that she knew this moment would never be forgotten.
No longer needing words to express their love, he kissed her. She felt as if her heart would leap from her body as he kissed her again and again. She slid an arm around his neck and held his lips against hers, glorying in his touch, fulfilled in his love.
He was the first to speak, and she felt his breath on her cheek as he pronounced the words she could not hear often enough.
"Elizabeth, I love you."
She answered him the only way she could...with a kiss.
As if by unspoken agreement, they rose, turned into the woods, and holding each other's hand, walked on towards Netherfield.
There was no doubt in Jane's mind as to the outcome of Darcy's interview with Elizabeth. They were two people who belonged together and they had each been taught that by hard learned lessons.
When she saw them approach the house, they were walking very close together and making no effort to hide the fact that they were holding hands. When they caught a glimpse of her, they did not separate or shy away from each other. Jane was pleased. She would allow any liberties between her sister and her husband's friend that were required to make them happy.
Jane met the couple in the entryway, and Elizabeth immediately rushed to Jane and embraced her.
"Thank you, Jane," she whispered.
"Oh, Lizzy, I so much enjoy seeing your smile."
"Jane, Mr. Darcy has asked me to marry him, and I have accepted," she said in a whisper.
Darcy walked up to Jane to receive her congratulations and all three went into the drawing room. Darcy and Elizabeth sat together on one sofa while Jane sat on a chair opposite them. Jane began their conversation after calling for tea.
"And when will you marry? Please tell me all the details."
"We will marry as soon as possible, Mrs. Bingley," answered Mr. Darcy. "I will go to London in order to procure a special license for us."
"We will marry just as soon as we have the license," added Elizabeth.
"What about Mama? She will have no time to arrange for the wedding," said Jane. She knew how Elizabeth would answer.
"Mama will have to be understanding, Jane," she said seriously. Then with a laugh, she added, "Brides must be given a great deal of latitude on such matters, you know." She paused for a moment, and then with an imploring look to her sister, said, "I have something I would ask of you, Jane."
"Of course, Lizzy, you know I will do anything for you."
"I want to accompany Mr. Darcy to London. He will need to be gone a few days and I cannot bear to be away from him that long." Her voice trailed off and she lowered her eyes to the floor.
Jane smiled at her, and in the pause Elizabeth looked up and rested her eyes on Jane.
"Lizzy, I will be happy to go to London with you. Of course you want to be with Mr. Darcy. Charles will accompany us, of course." And she rose as if to leave the room.
"In that case, Mrs. Bingley, I invite you all to stay with me at my house in town. There is plenty of room and we shall all be very comfortable." There could be no greater pleasure, he thought, than being under the same roof with both Elizabeth and the Bingleys.
"Thank you, Fitzwilliam," said Elizabeth more cheerfully. "Thank you, Jane."
"I will leave you two alone while I speak with Charles," said Jane as she left the room.
Elizabeth stood, crossed the room to the window and looked out across the lawn. Netherfield had never looked so beautiful, yet it was no different than yesterday. She knew her outlook was forever changed because of being certain of Darcy's love. She could not remember the hurt she had felt the day before. He had extinguished all the pain and loneliness and had filled her heart with a sense of love and belonging.
Elizabeth stretched out her hand to him, inviting him to come to her. She bit her lip as she watched him approach her. He did not move with haste, but with deliberate, determined steps. His eyes did not leave hers. Indeed, she could not have looked away had she tried.
He took her in his arms and softly whispered her name. She returned his embrace, feeling confident in his love and affection. Bending down, he kissed her in such a way that she could not mistake his feelings for her. Her whole body was heated by his touch and she felt her breath begin to fail her.
He broke away from her, then placed a gentle kiss on her forehead.
She looked up at him with a smile. "Thank you for coming back."
Elizabeth and Darcy were still embracing when Bingley and Jane entered the drawing room.
"Darcy, you are very welcome to Netherfield," said Bingley as he grasped Darcy's hand.
"Thank you for your invitation," said Darcy gratefully.
Elizabeth looked expectantly at Jane, and then asked, "Have you told him, Jane?"
"Told me what?" inquired Bingley with smile that indicated his good knowledge.
"Mr. Darcy and I are to be married," said Elizabeth. She did not fear his disapprobation. It was through his means that she and Darcy had been reunited.
"I knew it would happen," he said proudly. "I knew you two could not, should not, stay apart."
"Mr. Darcy, Charles and I are very happy to go to London with you so that we may accompany Elizabeth. All that remains is for you to tell us when you would like to leave," said Jane. It had been easy to persuade her husband. He loved his friend very much and took an active interest in promoting the happiness of his sister-in-law.
"If possible, I should like to leave in the morning," responded Darcy.
Elizabeth looked up to him with an expression of happiness. Her every wish was being fulfilled. Darcy had returned, they were to be married, and with Jane's help they were not to be separated.
It now struck her that her new and sudden engagement to Darcy, following so soon upon the heels of the end of her very public engagement to Mr. Grinly, would appear strange to the community of Meryton. People might wonder about their motives for marrying. They might speculate as to why Mr. Grinly had left so suddenly. Her removal to London with Mr. Darcy would not be looked upon with favor and that her reputation may suffer as a result. It did pain her to some degree, but it did not overcome the desire she had to be with Mr. Darcy nor her resolution to marry him.
The friends spent a companionable evening together after a light dinner. Darcy related to Bingley how he had arrived at Netherfield and been sent by Mrs. Bingley to seek Elizabeth by the stream. While not disclosing the substance of their conversation, he did make Bingley understand that she had accepted his immediate proposal of marriage and that the purpose of their trip to London was to obtain a special license to marry just as soon as may be.
"Miss Bennet," said Bingley with a laugh, "I suppose your mother is quite happy in the knowledge that another of her daughters will be well settled."
"Sadly, my mother does not yet know her own happiness, and probably will not know it for some time." Elizabeth hesitated before continuing. "She has not forgiven me for ending my engagement with Mr. Grinly and I have been banished from her presence."
"Elizabeth," said Darcy, "is there anything I can do to help?"
"You can do nothing, sir," she replied, "You have made me happy and that is all I care about," said Elizabeth.
"But your mother?"
"She will learn soon enough of our engagement, Fitzwilliam, and then perhaps she will forgive me. I do not trouble myself over it and I pray that you would not, either."
Darcy was just coming to understand the price Elizabeth had paid to be with him, and this knowledge endeared her to him even more. He was resolved that he would love away any anguish she might suffer because of him. Her mother may reject her, but he never would.
After the servants had removed the tea service, Jane stood and announced that she would be retiring for the night. She was certain Elizabeth would like some privacy with Mr. Darcy and knew she would enjoy the same with her husband.
Jane stepped over to Elizabeth and embraced her.
"Oh, Lizzy, I am so happy for you!" whispered Jane. "He loves you, Lizzy. You will be so happy."
"I know he does. Thank you for everything, Jane," returned Elizabeth.
The sisters separated and Mr. Bingley led his wife from the room.
Elizabeth was quite surprised at the nervous feelings she experienced upon being left alone with Mr. Darcy. She felt it incumbent on her to speak. Not knowing what to say, she began with,
"I..."
"Well...," spoke Mr. Darcy at the same time.
They laughed at the coincidence, and hearing Darcy's deep voice removed Elizabeth's feelings of discomfort.
"Pray, continue, Mr. Darcy," teased Elizabeth.
He shook his head and smiled at her.
"Today has been an astonishing day," said Darcy. "I traveled from London this morning with a great deal of anticipation at seeing you again and hoping that you still loved me. In the afternoon, you bestowed on me your hand and gave me your love. Now it is the evening and propriety dictates that we separate for the night, yet I do not want to be without you."
"Well, there is certainly no cause for rushing away, is there?" said Elizabeth as she motioned to the seat next to her on a sofa.
Darcy sat down with her, took her hand and held it with both of his.
"Because of you, Elizabeth, my heart is made whole. All the pain and anguish of these past weeks is gone. I can scarcely remember it. I have always loved you, even when I thought I should not. I am so happy to be with you now, just sitting and talking." He paused for a moment, and then continued. "And as far as what is to become of us now, soon after we marry, I would like to take you to Pemberley. Elizabeth, I cannot wait until I can take you home." He stopped talking, but to Elizabeth it appeared as if he would say more.
"That sounds wonderful."
"We will live happily at Pemberley and perhaps we will not be alone. , I mean, I hope we are blessed with children."
Elizabeth laughed. "Yes, Fitzwilliam, I would like that very much."
Had anyone been able to observe the couple, there would be no doubt that in their hearts, Elizabeth and Darcy were already wed.
Observing Elizabeth struggling to hide a yawn, Darcy stood and helped her to her feet.
"I think it is time for us to say 'goodnight,' my love."
"Oh, but I do not want to, I..."
"I am not going anywhere without you, dearest Elizabeth," said Darcy with a smile in a soft voice. "I will be here in the morning when you wake. You must get rest for our journey tomorrow."
"Yes, Fitzwilliam, you are right," conceded Elizabeth.
Darcy led her through the hall and to the staircase.
"Elizabeth, you can have no idea how many times I mounted these stairs in anticipation of seeing you while you were here at Netherfield. For the first time, I will climb them with you."
Darcy put one arm around her waist and held her hand with the other. They ascended the stairs in silence.
At the door of her bedchamber, Elizabeth stepped away from Darcy and then turned to face him.
Darcy closed the distance between them and took her up in his arms.
"May I kiss you good night, fair lady?" he whispered into her hair.
"I am yours, dear sir," she replied.
"I am yours, beloved," he agreed, "and at last you are mine!"
Their lips touched softly and then with growing passion. Elizabeth had been longing for the moment he would touch her again since they entered the house, and she was not disappointed. She was being held by the man she loved, and as his hands explored her curves and his lips warmed hers, she wished she could remain in his arms forever. She knew that she had attained the happiness she had sought her whole life.
Chapter 23
Early the next morning, the four friends set off in Mr. Bingley's carriage. Mr. Darcy's unoccupied conveyance followed them. Jane had prepared a basket of fruit and bread with which to make their trip more comfortable, and they found no reason to stop along the way but to change horses.
Elizabeth was nearly bursting with excitement. She was taking great pleasure in the novelty of her trip, beyond the immediate enjoyment of being with Jane, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy. She and Darcy were well beyond the immediate embarrassment of their new situation, and they were not ashamed of showing their affection for each other in the presence of the Bingleys. Sitting beside each other in the carriage, he held her hand and softly caressed her fingers.
While Darcy was occupied in looking out the window, Elizabeth fixed her eyes on his face to once again examine those features that she found to be so handsome. She remembered the expectation she felt that morning when Anne had spoken to her of Mr. Darcy and had told her that she should anticipate a visit from him. Anne had described him as a tall, strong man with dark hair, dark eyes and gentle manners. Elizabeth had learned he was all of this and more. His voice spoke directly to her heart. She could feel his words just as clearly as she could hear them. Now she found herself looking into his eyes as he turned and caught her staring at him.
"Yes, my love?" he smiled.
She blushed, but held his glance. "I was just studying your face, that is all."
"I can see that," he replied with a wink.
She slapped his arm and laughed. "Very funny!"
Their gaze held, and she bit her lip in an effort to stifle her emotion. He saw it all, and had they been alone, he knew exactly how he would react to that look.
"Lizzy, you should be nice to Mr. Darcy," teased Jane with a smile.
"Yes, Elizabeth, you should be nice to me," Darcy winked.
"I will be only as nice to you as you deserve!" laughed Elizabeth.
The roads were good and the time passed quickly as they chatted about the little nothings that can occupy friends for hours on end.
The conversation died away as the coach entered the noise and bustle of London. Elizabeth was astonished at the section of town in which she found herself. The homes were magnificent. Although she had known by general report that Darcy was rich, and knew from his description of Pemberley that it was a fine estate, the magnitude of his wealth was evident when they stopped in front of the Darcy townhouse.
Mrs. Jamison, the housekeeper, was a most cordial person and soon engaged Mr. Darcy's guests in easy conversation, particularly Miss Bennet whom her master seemed to single out with special attention.
It was at this moment that they were joined by Georgiana who came running to the entryway when she heard her brother's voice. She had known Mr. Bingley for a long time as her brother's particular friend, but she did not know the two young ladies.
"Fitzwilliam, once again you have surprised me. I did not know you were coming back so soon," said Georgiana with a smile to the dark haired young woman. Georgiana could sense a connection between Mr. Bingley and the other lady.
"I did not realize that my business would be concluded so quickly, or in so happy a manner," said her brother. Georgiana now had no doubts as to who these women were.
Darcy immediately began the introductions.
"Mrs. Bingley, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, this is my sister, Georgiana."
The ladies curtsied.
"Mrs. Bingley, please accept my congratulations on your recent marriage," said Georgiana. "I have known your husband for much of my life and you could not have chosen a better man."
"Thank you, Miss Darcy. I do love him dearly," replied Jane.
"And Miss Bennet, my brother has spoken to me of you and I am so pleased to make your acquaintance."
"Oh my, I do hope you will tell me what your brother had to say about me, Miss Darcy," said Elizabeth with a laugh.
"Well," said Darcy, "shall we all go in?"
He ushered the ladies into the drawing room. Jane was seated with Bingley on a sofa. Elizabeth had moved to the far side of the room and placed herself opposite Georgiana and Darcy.
Georgiana was very pleased to finally meet Miss Bennet. She knew her brother loved her and knew he had gone to Hertfordshire to win her hand in marriage. That he could accomplish this task so quickly was reassuring to Georgiana, as it spoke volumes of Miss Bennet's attachment to her brother. She was as beautiful as her brother had described her, and seemed just as amiable as she had hoped. She was delighted with Elizabeth and now strove to make her feel more comfortable and at home. Indeed, Georgiana hoped it would very soon be her home.
"Miss Bennet, you need not worry," said Georgiana, laughing, "my brother has told me only good things about you."
"Well," said Elizabeth, matching her levity, "I am glad of it. I had hoped to pass myself off with some credit in this portion of the world." In an effort to change the subject, she said, "Your brother has also told me about Pemberley. It must be a beautiful place."
"Oh, it is, Miss Bennet. Perhaps some day you can visit us there. There is no place I would rather be. Unfortunately, because it is out in the country, I must remain in town to pursue my education. I do go there for the summer months, though."
"That must make it all the more special to you, Miss Darcy," said Elizabeth. Her thoughts then turned to something Darcy had told her about his sister. "I understand that you play the pianoforte very well."
"I do like to play, but I do not play very well. My brother tells me that you sing and play."
"I do, a little," confessed Elizabeth, "but I would so much like to hear you perform. Will you, while I am here?"
Georgiana seemed flattered by the attention. "If you like."
"Miss Darcy," said Jane, "you must insist that my sister play for you. She is much more accomplished than the world is generally aware."
"Then I will insist. Thank you, Mrs. Bingley, for the hint." Then turning to Elizabeth, she said, "I am so happy that you are here!"
Elizabeth was a little surprised at this admission, but was pleased with the warmth of the young lady's welcome. She would soon be her sister and was, therefore, eager to meet with her approval.
Unable to wait any longer, Mr. Darcy stood.
"Please, excuse me," he said to everyone. "I have urgent business to which I must attend immediately." He glanced at Elizabeth with a smile that did not go unnoticed by Georgiana. Clearly her brother's business concerned Elizabeth, and her assumptions on the nature of her relationship with her brother received greater confirmation.
Bingley arose also. "Darcy, may I be of any service to you?" he asked.
Darcy looked at Bingley. "I thank you, no. Please stay and entertain the ladies. I hope to be back for a late dinner."
Bingley wanted to suggest that Darcy's business might wait until the next day, but knowing the impatience of his friend when his mind was decided, he refrained from mentioning it. He knew that Darcy was in town specifically to obtain a license for marriage. Perhaps he felt that he might yet secure one that very day.
Darcy crossed the room to where Elizabeth sat and began to whisper to her.
"Elizabeth, I will go now to apply for the license." He paused. It was not a woman's place to involve herself in such matters, but he would defy convention if that were what she wished. "Would you like to accompany me?"
She hesitated in her response, feeling the eyes of all those in the room upon her. She did want to go with him, but felt that perhaps it would be inappropriate, and under no circumstances did she want to do anything that might embarrass him. Resolved, she replied in a hushed voice.
"Fitzwilliam, you have been very generous to indulge me in bringing me to London with you, for which I am very grateful. I do believe, though, that it would be best for you to attend to these affairs alone," she said with a reassuring smile. "How long will you be away?"
"I will be home before dinner, my love," he breathed.
She felt so confident and so touched by his concern for her, and the intimacy of this conversation, that her heart went out to him. Indeed, it was imperative that he leave. They must have a license to wed and the sooner that license was procured, the sooner that happy event could take place.
"Let me walk with you to the door, sir."
She rose and followed him from the room, ignoring the questioning looks from Georgiana and the Bingleys.
In the entryway, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy found themselves quite alone, and he took advantage of it by taking her firmly into his arms. She pressed herself against him and gloried in the feeling of love that his embrace afforded her.
"Elizabeth," he whispered against her cheek.
Bending close to her, so near that his lips were almost touching hers, he continued, "I will attend to this as quickly as I can. I love you."
His kiss was surety for its truth. She delighted in the warmth of his lips, and he savored the fullness of hers. With closed eyes, her whole body was attuned to the sensations he was creating inside her. She felt loved. Truly loved and wanted.
Darcy was filled with gratitude for her love and affection, for her strength of character and the desire he knew she had of living a life honest and true to the ideals of goodness which she held dear. In marrying her, he knew he was marrying above himself in those things that mattered most, and was determined to follow her example in choosing the right way of living.
When his lips left hers, she wanted to tell him she loved him, but could not speak. Without another word between them, with only a parting glance, he slipped out of her arms and left the house to complete his errand.
She took a step forward to occupy the space he had just vacated and hugged herself, refusing to surrender to memory the tender feeling of being held by him.
Darcy did not have much experience in being away from Elizabeth since their engagement, and as he left his house, what would be their first home together, he realized how much he depended on her. Loving her so fully and so completely, and being so fully and completely loved by her were feelings of a nature he had never before experienced. The door of his carriage had not closed before his heart suffered from being out of her presence.
Jane noticed that Elizabeth had not returned to the drawing room, so after excusing herself, she left Miss Darcy and her husband and went in search of her sister. Elizabeth did not hear Jane come up behind her and started when Jane touched her shoulder.
Elizabeth seemed distracted, and Jane knew she must be missing Mr. Darcy.
"When did Mr. Darcy leave?" asked Jane.
"Just now," replied Elizabeth. "He asked me if I wanted to go with him, but..."
"...but you did not," finished Jane.
"I know he will come back just as soon as he can, but I do not like to be separated from him." Jane led Elizabeth to a sofa.
"There will always be those times," said Jane, "when couples must be apart."
"Half the day and all the night. It seems like such a long time." Elizabeth was frustrated and Jane's heart ached for her.
"You will marry soon, will you not?" asked Jane.
"Yes, but, oh, how I wish we could marry tomorrow."
Jane sat quietly for a moment. She sympathized with Elizabeth, knowing how little she liked to be away from Mr. Bingley.
Elizabeth had little obligation to her family, thought Jane. Mrs. Bennet had been offensive and their younger sisters were equally ambivalent regarding Elizabeth's happiness. Their opinions were not important. Jane knew that there were few opinions that mattered to Elizabeth and that all the people that were truly important to her were already in London. There was no reason for the marriage to be delayed. Nothing would be gained by making a spectacle out of the affair and Mrs. Bennet would surely insist on that if they married in Hertfordshire at some future time.
"Lizzy, why not? Why should you not marry tomorrow?" suggested Jane, pleased with the idea.
Elizabeth looked surprised and then hopeful.
Jane continued. "Mr. Darcy will have a license. There is nothing to prevent your marriage and an abundance of happiness to promote the idea. I know you do not wish to be apart from Mr. Darcy and now you will not have to be."
"But what of Mama?" asked Elizabeth.
"What of her? I am certain that she will be more than willing to forgive you when she learns of your marriage and I have no doubt that Mr. Darcy would agree to it," said Jane. "We can invite our Aunt and Uncle Gardiner, and, of course, Miss Darcy. It will be a cozy, simple affair with just the seven of us. You need nothing else."
The thought of being married to him so quickly brought a flush of excitement to Elizabeth's cheeks. Jane looked at her with pleasure, knowing her suggestion would be to the happiness of both.
"Marrying him tomorrow would be my dearest wish, Jane."
Almost as important in Darcy's mind as obtaining the license was doing so quickly and returning as soon as possible to Elizabeth. He sensed her discomfort at parting with him and knew her happiness would be restored only when he returned to her.
While waiting for his turn at the office from whence the license would be issued, he let his thoughts drift back to the first moment when he saw Elizabeth and absentmindedly drew from his pocket the purple ribbon. As was his habit, he laced it through his fingers, then brought it to his lips and kissed it. His thoughts then turned to the last time he had held her and kissed her.
Elizabeth was a beautiful woman, more so than any he knew. There was no one whose company he sought more. There was no one from whom he received such pleasure in conversation. The sound of her laughter rang through his mind, and he stilled for just a moment as he remembered the gentle voice that she employed to tell him that she loved him. Her skin was so soft and warm, her fingers a mixture of delicacy and strength. She had endured much because of him, but that special light had returned to her eyes, that endearing liveliness once again animated her features. How blessed he was to know her, and even more so to know that she was his. All that was lacking in his life was their marriage, and that was nearly assured just this moment as the clerk handed him the completed license and he took his leave of the building and returned to his carriage.
Jane once again found Elizabeth sitting by the window and laughed to herself.
"Lizzy, watching all day will not make him return any sooner!"
She walked over and rubbed Elizabeth's shoulders.
"But I know how you feel," confessed Jane. "It is always preferable to be together, is it not?"
"It certainly is. Jane, may I ask you a question?"
"Of course, Lizzy. Anything," replied Jane.
"Jane, how did you feel on your wedding day? I know you were happy, anyone could see that, but what was it like?" asked Elizabeth as she took her eyes away from the window to look at Jane.
"It was a beautiful day for me. It was as if every feeling of happiness that I had ever experienced had come together on that one day. Sometimes I felt lifted out of my body. I loved Charles ever so much. I knew I would never want to forget anything about the day, so I made every endeavor to see everything and feel everything."
"A wonderful feeling of peace settled in my heart when I entered the church and saw Charles waiting for me. I confess that he had never looked so handsome to me as he did at that moment. It is a memory I shall always cherish and that I entertain whenever I am away from Charles."
"Were you afraid?" asked Elizabeth.
"I was nervous, but not afraid. I will say, though, that when we arrived to that part of the ceremony where we were actually wed, all agitation left me and I knew without a doubt that I had made the correct decision," said Jane with a far away look in her eye. "I did experience a moment of sadness when I thought about Papa."
"I am sorry, Jane."
"Oh, Lizzy, I know Papa would have liked Charles, and he would have liked your Mr. Darcy just as well. I had always thought he would be there when I married."
"I shall miss Papa, also. I take comfort in knowing that I am doing what he would approve of and that by marrying for love I am no way going against his wishes. That reminds me, though," said Elizabeth. "When Mr. Darcy left me so suddenly that morning at Netherfield, he thought he was acting in accordance with the expectations of his father."
"What do you mean, Lizzy?"
"His father told him he could never be happy in a marriage unequal as to fortune, family and connections. Fitzwilliam overcame those feelings, but it was hard for him, then I became engaged to Mr. Grinly and all the sadness happened."
Jane took her hand and squeezed it. "Lizzy, that is all to be forgot. You and Mr. Darcy have come to a good understanding together. All the confusion has passed."
"You are right, Jane. It would have been gratifying, though, to have met with the approval of his parents had they lived."
Elizabeth and Jane were quiet, lost to the sound of horses and carriages as they waited for Mr. Darcy's return, when Georgiana entered the room.
"Please forgive me for intruding," she said. "Mrs. Bingley, Mr. Bingley has requested that you join him in the library. May I take you to him?"
"I think you must, for I have no idea where in this large house the library might be," Jane said with a laugh. She looked back to Elizabeth as she walked out of the room, but the later had returned her attention to the road outside.
Having safely delivered Mrs. Bingley to her husband, Georgiana felt that now, when assured of some privacy, would be a good time to get to know Miss Bennet a little better. She returned to the room where Miss Bennet was waiting for her brother and sat down on a chair opposite the window.
Georgiana cleared her throat, hoping to delicately gain Elizabeth's attention. It was obvious that she had not heard her enter the room.
"Oh, Miss Darcy!" said a surprised Elizabeth as she turned from the window.
"I did not mean to startle you," Georgiana said with some concern. "You are waiting for my brother, are you not?"
Elizabeth turned to her with a shy smile. "Am I that transparent?"
Georgiana laughed. "I know that Fitzwilliam loves you."
"Do you really?" asked Elizabeth, more than interested in what Georgiana might say.
"He has told me that he does." Georgiana smiled at Elizabeth.
"Your brother has told me how much he cares for you, Miss Darcy. He is a good man."
"He is the best brother," responded Georgiana. "I do not want to appear impertinent, but I would like to tell you something about him."
"I was in London when he received the letter from Mr. Bingley announcing your engagement to Mr. Grinly. I just want you to know that before he had received that note, he was already determined on returning to Hertfordshire in the hopes of gaining your forgiveness and regaining your affection." Georgiana's voice broke. "You cannot believe the agony into which he was thrown as he read that letter."
Elizabeth felt that she did understand the pain.
"I did not mean to hurt him," said Elizabeth. "I thought he did not care for me."
"Only then, when I saw him with that letter, was I able to comprehend what you went through when he left Hertfordshire the first time. May I ask..." Georgiana hesitated.
"Yes?"
"May I ask how you found it in your heart to forgive him?"
"Do you believe that I have?" asked Elizabeth.
"Yes, or you would not be sitting here eager for his return," said Georgiana.
"You are right, Miss Darcy. It has been a long road for both of us, I think. I thought he did not love me, and so I agreed to marry a man I did not love. I blamed your brother for hurting me, for trifling with me, but I never realized he might be running from his own demons. I had tried to forget him when I became engaged to Mr. Grinly, but when your brother returned to Netherfield, I knew that I still loved him."
Georgiana nodded.
"Circumstances presented that allowed me to change my mind if I wished, but I sent your brother away. I was resentful and angry, and also fearful of being hurt again. Mr. Grinly realized my feelings for your brother and requested that we end our engagement. He felt that he would not be in a position to bring me happiness. He also told me something else which I shall never forget."
"Yes?"
"Mr. Grinly told me that the only people that can hurt us most deeply are the ones that we love. He told me that I belonged with your brother, and that I should forgive him. The next morning, I received a farewell note from your brother, and Mr. Grinly returned to his home."
"Miss Bennet, that must have been horrible!" cried Georgiana.
"I struggled with Mr. Grinly, saying that we could be happy and that we ought not break off the engagement, but he was right. My mother was quite upset with me for letting a husband get away - she is so eager to marry off her daughters - that I removed to Netherfield and have been there since."
"You must be very close to Mrs. Bingley," commented Georgiana.
"I am," said Elizabeth. "I spent much time alone walking about the countryside, and I found that everyday I returned to the places around Netherfield that held special significance for your brother and me."
"Did you love him then?"
"I did, and I came to realize the depth of my love for him. My sister asked Mr. Bingley to drop some hints in a letter that let Mr. Darcy know I was thinking about him."
"No!" cried Georgiana.
Elizabeth laughed. "I assure you, it is true. She felt the only way I would be happy was with your brother, so she invited him to Netherfield. I knew before he came that we would be reunited. He asked me to marry him almost as soon as he came....oops!"
Georgiana smiled.
"I suppose that piece of news should have waited until your brother announced it," laughed Elizabeth.
"Rest assured," said Georgiana, "I will act very surprised when he tells me."
The ladies laughed at the idea.
"I cannot live without him, Miss Darcy. In order to spare my feelings, so we would not have to be separated, he invited the Bingleys to come to London with him so that I could join the party. He is so kind. Since I have told you all, I will add that his errand today is to procure for us a special license, so that we may marry just as soon as possible."
"And how soon will that be, Miss Bennet?" asked Georgiana.
"I hope very soon. I shall speak with him tonight and we will set a date."
"He must have traveled directly to your home to gain your father's consent."
Elizabeth's smile faded for a moment. "No, sadly my father is dead and my mother's permission is not required."
"Oh, I am so sorry, Miss Bennet."
"Miss Darcy, since we are to be sisters, I would be very happy if you were to call me Lizzy."
"I am so excited. I hope I can attend your wedding, Lizzy.
The ease and friendliness of Georgiana gave her a sure place in Elizabeth's heart. She knew she would come to love Georgiana very much.
As Darcy entered the house, he was met with a peel of feminine laughter such as he was unaccustomed to hearing in his home. When he peered around the door into a small sitting room with a window facing the front of the house, he found Elizabeth and Georgiana deep in conversation. As they did not notice him, he remained quiet to watch how they behaved.
"...stayed with me until Mr. Bingley's carriage arrived," said Elizabeth as she described the circumstances of her fall to Georgiana.
"That must have been awful, Lizzy," cried Georgiana.
Still unseen, Darcy could not but smile at hearing his sister call Elizabeth by her familiar name. He wanted them to love each other and it seemed as if they were well on their way to doing so.
"I was unconscious for several days, but then I woke up. I found out that Fitzwilliam had been coming to see me everyday," said Elizabeth.
Apparently their engagement was known to Georgiana, thought Darcy, because Elizabeth would not have referred to him by his Christian name unless Georgiana had known of it. He had planned on telling Georgiana in the evening, but he now realized that that was quite a miscalculation. Elizabeth must have unintentionally told her or Georgiana must have surmised. Well, in either case, he was glad because it seemed to have drawn the ladies even closer together and they began to treat each other as sisters.
"How long did he stay with you?" asked Georgiana.
"After I was awake, he would come for just a few minutes, or sometimes he would stay for an hour. We poured out our hearts to each other. Other than Jane, there is no one who knows as much about me as does your brother."
Darcy was shocked to hear this. He now realized just how much Elizabeth had opened her heart to him, how valuable her confidence was, and he was once again pained at the memory of how he had crushed those precious feelings. 'If only'... 'If only'... 'If only'... repeated in his head. But they had agreed that was all to be forgotten, he reminded himself.
Growing more self-conscious by the moment, Darcy quietly entered the room.
"Fitzwilliam, you are back!" cried Georgiana. "Oh, congratulations, brother. Lizzy told me you are to marry. I am so happy for you, I truly am! I wish you joy!"
"Thank you, Georgiana. What..."
His sister interrupted him. "When will you marry? Lizzy told me the date is undecided. Please, marry soon." Darcy could think of nothing that would please him more.
"If you will excuse us, dear sister, I would like to speak with Elizabeth concerning a date right now."
Georgiana smiled and ran lightly from the room.
Alone with Elizabeth once again, Mr. Darcy pulled her into his arms and rested her head against his shoulder.
"I am very pleased that you and my sister seem to like each other," said Darcy.
"She is a sweet girl, Fitzwilliam, and a credit to your care and nurturing," replied Elizabeth.
"London has been her home since our father died. I wanted to ask you, but only if you agree, if Georgiana could live with us at Pemberley after we are married."
Elizabeth stepped back for a moment to look at him. This was to be their first decision together as a couple. Of course, she could not refuse him anything, but she was gratified that he would think of her and request her opinion.
Darcy returned her gaze with a hopeful look on his face. He knew that Georgiana would appear very much to advantage with Elizabeth and he wanted them to be together.
"That would be delightful."
"Thank you. I am sure we shall all be very happy together," he said.
Elizabeth gathered up her courage. "There is a point on which I would like to talk with you. I would like to talk about the date on which our happiness together will begin."
Darcy was pleased that she would begin on a subject that he had wished to broach with her. He felt his hope rising as he saw the look of firm resolve on her face.
"I have our license right here," said Darcy as he withdrew an envelope from his pocket.
Elizabeth nervously continued. "I would like to marry soon," she said. "Very soon, indeed."
"How soon, beloved?" he asked with a smile.
She lowered her eyes, then turned away from him, as if fearing his rejection. When she did not speak, he put his hand on her shoulder and slowly turned her back towards him. Looking up, and with a voice barely audible, she made her request.
"Tomorrow."
Darcy felt the floodgates of his heart open up with joy. Not only was it what he most desired, but she desired it, also.
"That, my love," he said, "deserves a kiss."
She gratefully allowed herself to be taken up in his arms.
"Tomorrow," he whispered.
Chapter 24
Elizabeth and Darcy returned to the drawing room, and finding no one there, went to the library in search of the others.
They were found enjoying a quiet discussion in a small sitting area in front of the fire. They all looked up with curious eyes when Elizabeth and Darcy entered the room.
"You are all invited," announced Darcy, "to a wedding..."
There was a general murmur of excitement amongst the others.
"...tomorrow," he concluded.
'Tomorrow' was repeated with surprise and then delight. Jane ran over to Elizabeth and embraced her.
"Oh, Lizzy, I am so happy." Then pulling back from her, she turned to Mr. Darcy and said, "Sir, you are too good. Thank you for making Elizabeth so happy."
"Trust me, Mrs. Bingley, she can be no happier than I." They all laughed together.
"I am so excited, a wedding tomorrow! This is so wonderful," cried Georgiana.
They all sat down and listened while Georgiana quizzed the happy pair on their plans for the wedding.
The plans were very simple. They would go to St. Clement's and be married. Elizabeth would immediately invite the Gardiners while Darcy wrote to the clergyman. Both notes would be delivered by servants of the Darcy household. The rest of the evening was spent in general conversation with the subject of the wedding something to which they always returned.
LondonMy dear Aunt,
I have such wonderful news for you I hardly know where to begin. I am to be married tomorrow and you are all invited.
Do not be surprised. I am marrying Mr. Darcy. All our differences have been resolved and there is nothing but happiness between us. We were to marry at some future time from Longbourn, as would be expected, but Mr. Darcy has procured a special license and has arranged with the rector of St. Clements that the marriage will take place at 11:00 AM.
I want to assure you, my dear Aunt, that this early date is a result of our desire, to assure our happiness, and should not be construed to be scandalous. I know you will come to love Mr. Darcy almost as much as I do. He is looking forward to meeting both you and my uncle.
With all my love, dear Aunt.
Elizabeth Bennet
Elizabeth glanced at the clock over the fireplace in her bedchamber. It read 1 AM. She had been sitting in front of her dying fire and nearly exhausted candle reading for two hours, her mind so full of tomorrow that she could not sleep.
Elizabeth was preoccupied with anticipating the very moment when she would become Mr. Darcy's wife. This was a moment of which she had first dreamed many weeks ago while nestled in her bed at Netherfield. She could not identify the instant when she first realized the wish of her heart, and though she would not say it came on slowly, she did understand its depth, and never more so than when she and Mr. Darcy shared their first kiss.
She had never kissed anyone before. Indeed it would be a most improper thing to do, but her mind was less concerned with proprieties than it was with love and affection. She knew she could not give herself to someone whom she did not love. She had tried to do that with Mr. Grinly. In her heart, she once again thanked him for making her realize how much she did love Mr. Darcy, and that he loved her enough to let her go.
And now, at this early morning hour, she could say that today was the day of her wedding. Today she would give up her name and become Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy. She and Jane had spent much time as they grew up together discussing men and marriage, and today it was all to come true. She had never imagined that she would not be married from Longbourn, but neither had she imagined that her father would not be there to give her away. Mr. Bennet would have liked Mr. Darcy very well, and while her father would have struggled to give her up to any man, if he had to choose, she knew he would choose Mr. Darcy.
With such a busy mind, sleeping was out of the question, and having just completed her book, she needed something new to read.
Elizabeth felt certain she would not be seen and was therefore confident about leaving her room in her nightgown. The house had been long quiet and the whole party had retired at 11 PM. Surely, no one would be awake at this hour.
Not knowing the habits of the house, she was unaware of the fact that it would be unusual for the library door to be ajar. Paying no attention, she entered the room and cast her eyes around her, first noticing a glow from the fireplace, then a candle burning on the desk, and to her astonishment, Mr. Darcy in a black silk dressing gown sitting behind the candle. He was staring intently into the flame, completely lost in thought. His hair was tousled and his gown tied without a care for his appearance. The front was open at the neck, revealing the dark curls that covered his chest. He was resting his head on his hand, his fingers curling up the side of his cheek.
As of yet, he had not seen her, but Elizabeth could not turn away from the sight of him. He was so handsome and looked very elegant in his dressing gown.
But a recollection of her own situation caused her cheeks to burn. To be seen by him would hardly be modest, yet she could not take her eyes away from him. She could not move herself from the room. She had considered her body to be well concealed, but in the dim light of Mr. Darcy's candle and she realized the flimsiness of her nightgown.
She knew she must go before being observed, yet her mind and body ached to watch him.
Elizabeth had not paid much attention to her candle that by this early morning hour had burned so low, that it chose that moment to go out. She was startled by the sudden change in light and gave a muffled cry.
Darcy recognized the source from whence that small cry issued.
"Elizabeth?"
She responded with a sigh. "Yes, Fitzwilliam."
"Is anything the matter?" he inquired as he took his candle and moved towards her.
"Please forgive me for intruding," she replied. "I cannot sleep, and I was seeking a book."
"I was not able to sleep, either. I find myself filled with anticipation for our wedding..." he paused to look at the clock on the chimneypiece, "...which will be in ten hours."
"I find myself similarly distracted. Please forgive me for interrupting you. I cannot leave you, though, I..."
"Please, do not go," he said gently.
"My candle went out," she said almost inaudibly.
Although anticipating the discomfort that such a meeting might cause, in no way would he allow her leave without speaking with to her.
Or looking at her. She was beautiful...and tempting. Very tempting.
Recollecting himself, he said, "Give me your hand." She hesitantly reached out to him, knowing full well what she would feel when their hands met.
As he took hold of her fingers, a feeling of warmth and excitement coursed up the length of her arm, as it always did when he touched her hand. She returned the gentle squeeze he gave her and allowed him to lead her to a sofa next to the fireplace. He took his seat in the armchair beside it.
After sitting down, she turned her head away from him, feeling self-conscious because of her appearance.
"Elizabeth, trust me."
She looked back at him and saw such a look of love and concern on his face that removed all her discomfort.
"You should not see me like this, Fitzwilliam."
"And you should not see me like this, yet we have no reason to be shy around each other," he replied.
"No, we do not," she said with a relaxed expression on her face. "May I ask, sir," she continued, "what it is you have been doing in here all by yourself?"
"I have been thinking about you."
Even in the dim light he could see her smile and it took his breath away.
"And what were your thoughts?" she asked.
"I was thinking how very much I love you and how proud I will be to call you my wife. I was trying to decide how much I would be willing to share you with the world," he said. "I fear that I want to keep you all to myself for a very long time after we are married."
He moved from his chair and sat next to her on the sofa. She could feel the heat from his body penetrate her nightgown.
Their eyes met, held together by the longing and passion they saw in each other. Her heart raced at the thought of being held by him. His breathing nearly stopped when he saw her tongue dart out of her mouth to wet her lip.
"Elizabeth," he whispered.
He lowered his lips to hers and kissed her breathless. As he broke the kiss, she felt his hand cross her shoulders and caress her neck as his other hand slid around her waist. Smiling, she leaned back against his chest and felt his arms encircle her.
"You are my life. I love you, Elizabeth."
"And I love you so very much, Fitzwilliam, that I fear my heart will burst," she said. She rested her hands on his arms and waited until her pulse returned to normal. He found her hand with one of his and laced his fingers through hers.
"So, have you decided how much you will be willing to share me?" she asked.
"If we stay in London for too long, we will eventually have to entertain visitors in order to not give offense. Normally, I care not for such matters but I will not allow the world to think ill of you," Darcy said teasingly. He changed his position on the sofa to one more comfortable. She settled in against his chest.
"We could travel directly to Derbyshire," she suggested lightly.
"Yes, but I do not think we want to spend our wedding night in a coaching inn." Her cheeks colored at the implications. "What is you opinion?"
"No, I do not think that would be comfortable for us, Fitzwilliam," said Elizabeth.
"Very well. We will remain in town for two weeks. I will show you off to my undeserving friends and family and then we shall travel to Pemberley."
"I would like that very much," said she.
They were quiet after this, each comfortable in the arms of the other. The night was dark and comforting and each was blanketed in a feeling of peace and contentment.
Elizabeth was growing tired and as their conversation lagged, she unknowingly did something she had always longed to do. She fell asleep in Darcy's arms.
She was the first awaken. Darcy had shifted his weight and the motion had interrupted her sleep. She was not sorry for it. She loved being held by him, being with him, and talking to him.
His arms were around her and she could not move without fear of waking him, a risk she would not take. Relaxing her mind, she let her eyes close once again, with feelings of love for Darcy permeating her body. As certain as he held her now, she knew he would never let her go.
It seemed like a dream to him, that he was asleep and Elizabeth was in his arms, yet it seemed so real. He opened his eyes, and there she was! He had never known a happier moment!
Elizabeth was curled up with one hand around his waist and another flat against his chest. His shoulder was blanketed by her hair. The warmth of her body penetrated deep inside him and drew from him feelings of gratitude that she loved him so well that she would be comfortable enough to fall asleep in his arms. He smiled as he watched her lips form into a smile. She was so beautiful when she smiled. Her whole face lit up with an expression of delight and he recalled the last time those lips had touched his. It has only been a few hours ago, but he longed to taste them again.
"Fitzwilliam," began Elizabeth.
"Yes, my love," was his reply.
"Thank you."
"For what, Elizabeth?" he asked.
"For keeping me warm," said Elizabeth softly. "The fire went out and I fear I should have been cold, except for you."
At this intimation that Elizabeth might be chilled, Darcy ran his hands over her exposed skin.
"Fitzwilliam, I want to look at you," she said turning in his arms. "I want to see what you look like in the morning before you dress for the day so prim and proper. I want the answer to the question, what does the great Fitzwilliam Darcy look like before being attended to by his valet?"
"The great Fitzwilliam Darcy?" he repeated with a smile at her playfulness.
"Let me see," she said as she reached for his face. "You have grown a beard. When I was a girl, sometimes I would see my father before he was shaved and I would touch his face like this."
Elizabeth flattened out her hand and rubbed it gently across his face.
"And then I would do this."
She leaned down against him and slid her delicate cheek across his rough skin.
"But, I never did this," she said as she began to kiss him with all the ardor of love and need.
Momentarily satisfied, but not sated, she broke the kiss. "I have not kissed you in forever, Fitzwilliam. I have missed you."
Darcy began to speak, but was silenced when her lips touched his. Words were not adequate for Elizabeth, so he held her close and answered her in the language she understood - with all the passion and desire he felt for her.
It was time for her to return to her room lest they be discovered. The fire had died away yet there was a glow in the room announcing the approach of daylight.
"Today we shall be married, Fitzwilliam," she said.
"It will be the happiest day of my life," he answered. "Come, let me take you to your room before the others awaken."
"Very well."
He stood and offered her his hand. Standing next to each other, they peered over the mantelpiece and into a large mirror. Smiling back at them was a happy couple, filled with love and tenderness, each for the other.
"You are so beautiful, Elizabeth," said Darcy.
She turned to him and whispered, "We must go."
"There is one last thing that I must do. I must kiss Miss Bennet for the last time."
She reached out and began to caress his cheek and favored him with an enticing smile. He responded just as she deserved, then placing an arm around her waist, guided her from the library and delivered her safely to her room.
He stood outside her closed door for a moment breathing in her scent, which lingered in the air, and lifted his heart in gratitude to heaven for the blessing of having her in his life.
Elizabeth sat quietly in front of a mirror reflecting on her night with Darcy and the many changes that had occurred in her life. There were many attendant consequences surrounding her fall on the path. First there was Jane and Bingley, and now she and Darcy.
Elizabeth was happy for Jane, but she confessed great pleasure in her own circumstances. True, it had cost them a great deal, but she and Darcy were finally together. She knew they were both deeply in love with each other and she was so excited about her future with him. He had described Pemberley and the beauty of Derbyshire to her on many occasions and she was quite eager to see her new home.
And Georgiana! What a companion she will be, thought Elizabeth. While nothing could make up for the loss of her near daily intercourse with Jane, having Georgiana with her would come as near to it as anyone possibly could. She was so full of life and energy. Her full heart was in every action she performed and every word that she spoke. It was impossible not to be happy around her.
Elizabeth was musing over these pleasant thoughts when she was interrupted by a knock at the door.
"Lizzy, it is I. May I come in?" asked Jane. Elizabeth invited her to enter.
Jane closed the door and stood behind Elizabeth and placed her hands on her shoulders and looked over her into the mirror.
"Well, Lizzy, today is the big day. You must be very excited," said Jane. "I know I am!"
Elizabeth turned to face Jane as the latter moved to sit on the bed. She watched Jane's eyes grow wide as they both realized at the same time, one with a look of surprise, the other with some embarrassment, that the bed had not been used the previous night.
Jane cleared her throat. "And how was Mr. Darcy, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, when you left him?" asked Jane in a tone of voice that suggested more than she knew.
Having observed her sister and Mr. Darcy together on several occasions, this little development came as no surprise. The passion these two felt for each other, thought Jane, warranted an early marriage in and of itself and without any other consideration.
Elizabeth offered a contrite smile. "I could not sleep, and so I went to the library to pick out a book. Fitzwilliam was there. We talked for a long time, and then fell asleep together on his sofa. I have just now returned to my bedchamber."
"It is fortunate that you were not discovered by anyone else, dear sister," said Jane with a smile. "I can see by the look on your face that you have no regrets, and so I shall trust your discretion and be grateful that you shall be married before dinner." Jane took Elizabeth's hand. "I am so happy for you."
"It means so much to me, Jane, that you are with me, that you and your dear husband will be able to be with us today when we are married," said Elizabeth.
"Mr. Darcy is a good man, Lizzy. He will be a good husband to you and treat you well. It is no secret that there is a great deal of love between you. Your union will be one that others can use an example as to what true felicity in marriage should be."
At first it would seem that you and Mr. Darcy are dissimilar. He can be grave and reserved, while you are playful and outgoing. Each of you will benefit greatly from the character and talents of the other. You will benefit from his knowledge and experience, and he will be softened by your goodness and become a gentler man. I do not mean to imply that either of you is deficient, but you will both complement each other so well."
Jane took a brush and began to run it through Elizabeth's hair until it shined. She hoped that this would not be the last time that she and her sister could be together in such an intimate setting. Unfortunately, that opportunity had not presented itself since Jane's marriage, so she was slow and deliberate in her strokes through Elizabeth's hair, savoring the moment.
"I remember when you brushed my hair every night, Jane. It seems so long ago," said Elizabeth whimsically.
"Indeed it was not. I have not been at Netherfield that long, Lizzy."
"It is true that you have not been married long, but I cannot think of you in any other way. In my mind, you have always been with Charles," said Elizabeth, watching her reflection in the mirror.
Jane returned to sit on the bed. "Lizzy, Charles and I will be leaving from the church to return to Netherfield. Charles has invited Georgiana to accompany us."
"Oh, Jane, you are so very kind."
"Do you know what your plans are after your wedding?" asked Jane.
"We are to remain in London for two weeks, then depart for Pemberley."
"Had you not considered visiting in Hertfordshire to announce your marriage to all your friends there?" she asked.
"To be honest, I had not thought about it, but you are right, perhaps we should visit there," replied Elizabeth.
"You must stay with us at Netherfield. Our mother and sisters can visit you there. I know that you would not be comfortable at Longbourn. Will Georgiana be returning to London?" asked Jane.
"No, her home will now be with us at Pemberley," said Elizabeth.
"I am happy for her. You need not stay long in Hertfordshire, though I know we would be happy to keep you forever," smiled Jane.
"This all sounds perfect, Jane, though I must speak with Fitzwilliam before I can give my full consent to the plan," Elizabeth said thoughtfully. It would take her some time to realize that she was not alone now, and that there would always be another with whom consultation was necessary.
"Of course, Lizzy. Let me call for your maid to help you dress. I suspect that you will not be doing any more sleeping this morning," laughed Jane.
Elizabeth was impatient to be with Darcy, and the task of dressing seemed more tedious than usual. Her maid could sense her unease and was arranging her hair as skillfully and efficiently as she could. Just as the maid left her room and she was ready to go downstairs, there was another knock at her door.
Fully expecting to see Jane, she was surprised when she found Georgiana standing in front of her.
"Good morning, Lizzy," she said.
"Good morning, Georgiana. You look beautiful this morning."
"I was too excited to sleep, so I dressed early and have been waiting until your maid left you so that I could have a few moments of your time," said Georgiana.
"Please come in, and tell me what I can do for you."
The ladies sat down near the fireplace.
"After our father died," began Georgiana, "Fitzwilliam gave me our mother's jewelry. Some pieces I have kept, others I have had reset, but there is one special necklace from which I will never be parted. My father told me it was my mother's favorite jewel. Let me show you."
Georgiana produced a small case from the folds of her skirt. Opening the lid, she pulled out an intricately crafted gold chain from which hung a pendant with a large red stone.
"This stone is a ruby, and she wore it on all formal occasions. I know that Fitzwilliam will recognize it. I want you to wear it today for your wedding. It would mean a lot to me, and I know it would mean a lot to my brother," said Georgiana thoughtfully. "I never knew my mother, but there is a likeness of her in the gallery wearing this gem. I will show you when you come to Pemberley."
"Thank you, Georgiana. I would be pleased and honored to wear it. You are very thoughtful, for you must know that I have no jewelry at all beyond this little cross my father gave me."
"Oh no, I did not mean..."
Elizabeth interrupted her. "Georgiana, I was thrilled when your brother asked me if you could live with us at Pemberley, and I was very pleased to agree to the plan."
Georgiana and Elizabeth came together in a sisterly embrace.
"I will bring the necklace to the church. You can put it on there so that it will be a surprise for my brother."
The ladies shared a laugh that bordered on the conspiratorial, then removed to the breakfast room where Mr. and Mrs. Bingley, and Mr. Darcy awaited them.
Having left Elizabeth at her bedchamber, Darcy retired to his room and lay down on his bed, savoring the recent memories he had of his beloved.
He was roused by a knock at the door that he recognized as belonging to his valet. Darcy had not asked Elizabeth when she planned to go downstairs, but he wanted to be there when she did, so he dressed quickly and quietly. His valet assured him that he looked very well in his dark green coat and that his new bride would approve. Darcy smiled and exited the room.
Darcy was relieved when he arrived downstairs and discovered that Elizabeth was not yet down. When he had left her at her room, she did not look at all tired and he did not imagine for a moment that she would try to sleep. As for himself, he had never slept so well, nor been so warm and comfortable as he had last night with Elizabeth in his arms. And now he looked forward to not being parted from her any night for the rest of his life.
He started when Bingley entered with room with Jane on his arm.
"Ah, Darcy, so I have caught you gathering wool!" Bingley laughed. "Good morning, sir."
"It is a very good morning, and good morning to you, Mrs. Bingley," said Darcy.
Jane walked over to Mr. Darcy and led him to a private corner of the room near a window as if to admire the view.
"Mr. Darcy," said Jane with a sly smile, "I trust you slept well last night?" He noticed a look of humor in her eyes and was at that moment certain that she knew how and with whom he had spent it.
"I ... er ... Well, yes, I did. And you?" He hoped she would let the subject drop.
"I slept very well, thank you for your concern. I saw Elizabeth this morning, and she also had a restful night. Her dreams were very pleasant, and hopes to always sleep as well in the future," laughed Jane. "I am certain that you can arrange that for her, can you not?" she asked.
"Um ... yes, of course." He could not hide a smile and turned away from her.
Elizabeth and Georgiana chose that moment to walk into the room. Darcy went to Elizabeth and kissed her hand. She smiled at him with sparkling eyes that bubbled with excitement.
Elizabeth had not had time to purchase any wedding clothes, therefore she chose her favorite gown of white muslin with gold tambour worked into the bodice. Sometimes a woman may feel insecure as to how she appears before other people, particularly on her wedding day, but the satisfaction that Elizabeth derived from Darcy's gaze as he looked at her, settled any discomfort she may have felt.
"Good morning, Mr. Darcy," said Elizabeth.
"Good morning, Miss Bennet," he replied. "You have no idea how pleased I am at the thought of not being able to address you as anything other than Mrs. Darcy after the next two hours."
"I know very well how you feel," she laughed. "You will not be surprised, Fitzwilliam, to know that I spent part of the morning with both Jane and Georgiana, and that all we did was talk about you. You need not fear, though, we did not say too many things that you could not hear." Teasing Darcy was going to be a new pleasure in her life.
"Your sister tells me that you slept very well, Elizabeth," said Darcy. "I hope it is true." Two could play that game.
"I have never been more comfortable in my life," she replied with a shy smile.
"Miss Bennet," said Bingley. "I am shocked. Others have slept in that bed before and remarked that the morning could not come soon enough."
"I have no complaints to make, Mr. Bingley," said Elizabeth. "I assure you."
Jane looked on with pleasure. Mr. Darcy could truly be humorous. Perhaps he and Elizabeth were not so dissimilar after all.
It was time to be off to the church. Darcy handed Elizabeth, Georgiana and Jane into the Netherfield carriage, then joined Bingley in his own after directing the coachmen to take them to the church. In just a moment, they were off.
"How do you feel, Lizzy?" asked Georgiana as she sat back against the seat of the coach. She was so pleased that her brother was to marry Elizabeth. He deserved to be happy, and knowing how he had suffered when he thought he had lost Elizabeth, made her satisfaction even sweeter.
"I am so happy, Georgiana. I love your brother. I am honored that he would ask me to be his wife. I will spend my whole life endeavoring to bring him joy and happiness," said Elizabeth.
The carriages rattled along slowly. The streets will filled with horses, coaches and vendors selling their wares. At the height of Elizabeth's anticipation, the party pulled up in front of St. Clement's. The gentlemen rushed out of their carriage to assist the ladies as they alit from theirs. With Elizabeth on one arm and Georgiana on the other, Darcy ascended the steps to the church.
They were met by the pastor who invited them in and explained the order of the ceremony. When his instructions were given and understood, the party advanced towards the front of the chapel. At this moment the Gardiners arrived, having been delayed some minutes due to the demands of their children.
"Lizzy," said Mrs. Gardiner as she came up and embraced her niece, "please forgive us for being late. The children..."
"Aunt," she interrupted, "the important thing is that you are here. Please allow me to introduce you to Mr. Darcy."
He bowed to them as Elizabeth began. "Mr. and Mrs. Edward Gardiner, allow me to introduce Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy."
"I am so pleased to finally meet you, Mr. Darcy," said Mrs. Gardiner.
"Indeed, it is a pleasure, sir," said Mr. Gardiner. "We wish you joy."
"Thank you, sir," said Darcy.
"Thank you, Uncle," echoed Elizabeth.
Darcy began to speak. "Please, let me introduce you to my sister, Miss Georgiana Darcy."
The ladies curtsied and Mr. Gardiner bowed.
"I am pleased to make your acquaintance," said Georgiana. "Thank you for coming."
"Miss Darcy," said Mrs. Gardiner. "We are delighted to be here."
The rector joined them and delicately cleared his throat. "Mr. Darcy, shall we begin?"
As Darcy took Elizabeth's hand to lead her to the altar, he was struck once again by her beauty. She was the handsomest woman he had ever known and she was more beautiful to him each time he looked at her. For the moment, he could not take his eyes from her and the service was delayed for a moment as he examined every pretty feature and delicate line she possessed.
At last, the couple moved toward the altar until Elizabeth heard a sound that halted her progress.
"Lizzy!" whispered Georgiana.
Elizabeth looked back at Georgiana, raised a hand to her mouth and hurried down the stairs. She was gone before Darcy could wonder what was the matter.
"Lizzy, I should have reminded you sooner. Please forgive me," said Georgiana as Elizabeth came up to her.
Georgiana took the ruby from its box and stood in back of Elizabeth and fastened it around her neck. As she brushed a wisp of Elizabeth's hair out from under the delicate chain, she said, "You are so beautiful, Lizzy. My brother is so lucky to have you!"
"Thank you, Georgiana," whispered Elizabeth. The ladies exchanged a quick embrace and Elizabeth turned and resumed her place at Darcy's side.
For a moment, a vision from his past rose up before Darcy as he watched Elizabeth approach him.
The ruby! He had not seen that in years and immediately his mother's portrait came to mind. He had always considered his mother to be a beautiful woman and took great pleasure in viewing her likeness in the gallery, but with that ruby resting against Elizabeth's delicate skin, every sensation of happiness that he had ever felt passed through him. Unable to contain himself, he moved to meet her.
Elizabeth could easily see that Georgiana had been right. She glowed under his admiration.
He took her hand and slowly kissed it, allowing her warmth to penetrate his skin.
It was time.
They turned to face the rector as he fulfilled their ultimate desire - to be bound to each other forever.
The clergyman, Mr. Joseph Everton, was a young man who had recently come into the office of Rector of St. Clement's. He was not married, though he was courting a young woman of beauty and distinction whom he hoped would take his name before long. Weddings, therefore, and especially love matches, were particularly interesting to him.
Although this was a very small gathering, there was no shortage of warmth and affection amongst the seven people present. A powerful feeling of love existed between the young couple and was expressed in the way they looked at each other, the manner in which he held her hand and the gentle voice he used when speaking to her. This would be marriage in its purest form, a union of the deepest love and affection. Mr. Everton knew he might officiate at many more ceremonies before he experienced such circumstances again.
Seeing that all was in readiness, Mr. Everton began.
"Dearly beloved, we are gathered together here in the sight of God, and in the face of this congregation, to join together this Man and this Woman in holy Matrimony; which is an honorable estate, instituted by God in the time of man's innocence, signifying unto us the mystical union that is betwixt Christ and his church..."
Elizabeth glanced up at Darcy and was pleased to see him smiling down at her. All the warmth of the passion she felt from him last night coursed through her body as she recalled his tenderness and gentle manner. She had never felt so confident about herself in her whole life. Never had she known with such surety that what she was doing was the right thing.
She turned her attention back to Mr. Everton, fingering the ruby as she did so.
"...it was ordained for the mutual society, help, and comfort, that the one ought to have of the other, both in prosperity and adversity..."
In his life, Darcy had only known prosperity. Many people felt that this precluded the ability to suffer in the face of adversity, but it did not. He felt as any child might have felt on the death of his mother and the neglect of his father.
It was now difficult for him to imagine how marriages of convenience could be at all sufferable when he anticipated the joy he felt with Elizabeth and in knowing that their love would soon be perfected.
"Fitzwilliam Darcy, wilt thou have this woman to thy wedded wife, to live together after God's ordinance in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honor and keep her..."
Elizabeth could not hide a smile. She knew Darcy was committed to her, but there was a thrill in the anticipation that he would make that an open declaration. She heard his deep voice proclaim the two words that were the driving force behind all the actions performed by any man or woman.
"I will."
A sigh escaped Darcy's lips. A goal for which he had striven was complete. He turned his attention to Elizabeth when he heard Mr. Everton pronounce her name.
"Elizabeth Bennet, wilt thou have this man to thy wedded husband, to live together..."
To live with Darcy was the ultimate wish of her heart. He had promised always to stay by her side, sealing that promise with a proposal of marriage that would allow him to perform it. Never again would she be without him.
"...forsaking all other, keep thee only unto him..."
She could not hear this without a thought for Mr. Grinly. A prayer in her heart went out to heaven that he would be blessed with as much happiness as she now felt.
"I will."
Mr. Everton placed Elizabeth's right hand in Darcy's right hand.
"I, Fitzwilliam Darcy, take thee Elizabeth Bennet, to be my wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish..."
Elizabeth was certain she had not been loved or cherished since the day her father died, at least until that moment when she felt her love kindle for Mr. Darcy and his for her. The comfort of such feelings was indescribable.
"Miss Bennet, it is your turn," whispered Mr. Everton.
"I, Elizabeth Bennet, take thee Fitzwilliam Darcy, to my wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward..."
These words were life to Darcy. 'To have and to hold.' There could be no greater gift.
Mr. Everton gave Darcy the ring that was to be Elizabeth's. It had been his mother's and now it was to be hers. He slipped it onto her finger, and while holding it around her delicate finger, repeated the words that defined the way he would treat her.
"...with my body I thee worship..."
At first she could not meet his eye, but when she did look, she saw such an expression of love and tenderness as confirmed all her hopes for him. The order of the ceremony did not require it, but in her mind she promised to worship him with her body, and it began with a gentle press of his hand with hers.
Mr. Everton addressed the five individuals witnessing the service.
"Forasmuch as Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, and thereto have given and pledged their troth, either to the other, and have declared the same by giving and receiving of a ring, and by joining of hands; I pronounce that they be Man and Wife together..."
Elizabeth felt a rush of excitement course through her body at the words 'Man and Wife together.' Man and wife. He was her husband and she belonged to him!
She felt his grasp on her hand tighten. Looking up at her new husband, she saw a tear escape his eye.
'Man and wife together.'
It was not a dream, Darcy thought. Elizabeth was his wife. What a precious moment! What an instant in time never to be forgotten! As he listened to the words of the Psalms and prayers spoken by Mr. Everton, words of advice, counsel and warning, he recommitted himself to the promise he had made Mrs. Bingley, that he would never do anything to make Elizabeth unhappy. His heart was softened and his spirit made tender as he considered the wonderful charge that had been given him, that of making Elizabeth Bennet ... no, it was now Elizabeth Darcy ... happy. The emotion outstripped his composure and he felt a tear run down his cheek.