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Chapter 5: What dreams may come

Posted on Friday, 27 October 2006

Over the next few days the great house saw a flurry of activity as Georgiana's ball drew ever nearer. Elizabeth, already beginning to feel ill in the mornings, but not able to tell anyone the cause, was having some trouble with the final arrangements. Finally, she swallowed her pride and asked Caroline for assistance. Elizabeth was worried that her declaration of 'weakness' by asking for help would cause Miss Bingley to revert to her old ways, or at least to lord her 'vast experience' at planning over Elizabeth.

To her relief and surprise, Elizabeth found Caroline to be extremely helpful; she smoothed over a problem with a missing delivery and suggested some dishes that would compensate for the missing items, while still accomplishing a full menu, and Caroline also suggested a slight seating rearrangement, as the latest gossip had eluded to a few new spats between guests that Elizabeth was not aware of. Miss Bingley even went on to compliment Elizabeth's choices, to say that she had been handling things wonderfully, and that anyone would have some difficulties arise in planning such a large event. Elizabeth was of the firm opinion that she and this 'new' Caroline Bingley could indeed become friends, and they were well on their way to doing just that.

Georgiana was becoming more and more flustered each day and spent much of her time with Jane Bingley. Jane was indeed an angel in her temperament, and she had a very calming and soothing effect on the agitated girl. They spent most mornings walking through the conservatory and garden, and then Georgiana would retreat to the music room where she would practice for hours. Music had always calmed Georgiana's troubled thoughts.

Darcy, Bingley, and Colonel Fitzwilliam spent much of their time riding around the estate inspecting the cotholds and farms on the property. The gentlemen would occasionally take longer trips when Darcy showed Bingley available estates in Derbyshire. As temperate as he and Jane were, even his angelic bride was beginning to feel the strain of being visited by her mother almost everyday. As much as she loved her mother, Jane was a married woman now and craved a quiet and private life with her husband. She had not had much opportunity to even become more acquainted with the man she married, as they were constantly interrupted by Mrs. Bennet.

Evelyn spent more and more time riding through the fields on Goliath. The events of the past few days; the incident with Caroline, the hustle and bustle in the house, watching the cartloads of goods being unloaded ... reminding her of her father ... left her troubled and effected her rest. She had not slept well in days, and escaping on horseback, feeling the wind blowing the tears off of her cheeks, was the only way she could find quiet and piece of mind, however fleeting it was.

On a particularly fine day, Evelyn had ridden alongside a small stream she had found. She followed the stream to a copse of willows, their long, trailing branches forming a small realm of peace and quiet. She led Goliath under the trees and realizing that she would be hidden from view from outside, took off her hat, boots and stockings to dangle her feet in a small pool. Goliath stood nearby, cheerfully cropping the reeds growing by the stream and munching contentedly. Evelyn found herself being lulled to sleep by the sound of the water and the cooler temperature in her haven, and she soon fell asleep on a bed of soft moss.

Hours later, she was dreaming of that night ... the night her father and brother were killed ... She could hear the screams in the night, smell the gunpowder and ashes, the blood ... she could hear Goliath whinny in fright and alarm as if she were really there ... she heard her father, begging her with his last breath to escape ... 'Evelyn ... Evelyn...'

"Evelyn? Evelyn? Goliath, settle down boy! Evelyn, wake up!" the Colonel said worriedly. He had gone out to look for Evelyn, along with Darcy and Bingley, when it was discovered that she had not been seen since that morning. He had found her trail after some time and followed it along the stream. He had called out to her upon seeing the copse and after receiving no response had run under the trees until he espied Goliath standing over a trembling and moaning Evelyn. Thinking that she was ill or injured he immediately went to her side, after nudging the huge horse out of the way, and attempted to rouse the woman.

Evelyn's eyes suddenly snapped open, her face and lips white. She screamed and began thrashing and clawing the air, backing away from the Colonel until she was stopped by a tree. Colonel Fitzwilliam fell back in extreme shock, and when the thought that Evelyn would injure herself in her delirium entered his mind, he snapped out of his daze and went to soothe the greatly distressed woman.

"EVELYN! Calm down, it is I, Colonel Fitzwilliam! Evelyn ... please!" he began to shout to her as he attempted to grasp her wrists. At the further sound of her name, Evelyn's eyes began to regain focus, and after a few heartbeats of the Colonel's pounding heart, she finally turned to look at him and said, very weakly, "Colonel...?"

"Yes, Evelyn, it is I. Are you all right? Are you injured in anyway or ill?" the Colonel asked in near-panic. He began to look her over to see if she was bleeding or had received a blow to the head.

Evelyn sat back against the tree for a moment and attempted to clear her head and gain awareness of her surroundings. "I had the dream again, but for a moment it seemed so real! As if I was there again ... I could have sworn I heard my father ... but no ... it must have been the Colonel trying to wake me. My Lord but he did give me a fright! And now, seeing me lying here in a shambles, with no boots or stockings! I must leave here at once!" and with that she tried to stand on still-wobbly legs and backed away further from Colonel Fitzwilliam.

"No! I am well and uninjured, thank you for your concern, but I must go," and she stumbled over to where her boots were and began putting them on her bare feet. She was trembling so that the Colonel had walked over to steady her. "I am fine! Please, leave me beeeEE!" she screamed as she lost her balance and fell into the small pool with a splash!

The Colonel was becoming more and more concerned by Evelyn's strange behavior. If she was not injured or ill, she must have had quite the nightmare and was scared out of her wits by whatever it was she dreamt. He was confused by her pulling away from him, when he was evidently only trying to help her. He was astonished when she lost her balance and fell. The Colonel stood there for a moment, wiping the water out of his eyes before he looked down and saw Evelyn sitting in the pool, hair bedraggled with tendrils plastered to her cheeks. "How utterly enchanting she looks ... like a water-fairy..." he thought with a catch in his throat. He went over to assist her in getting up when she raised one hand, then the other, and both were covered in black mud. She sat there staring at her hands and unconsciously pouted. This sight, which reminded him of a little girl playing in a mud puddle, caused him to snicker.

Upon hearing Colonel Fitzwilliam laugh at her again, Evelyn's mortification was replaced with indignant rage. She struggled to get out of the mud and stood, her chin tilted up in a pose of pure, albeit despoiled, grace. Without any warning whatsoever, she lobbed a handful of mud directly into the Colonel's laughing face. To her, the image of Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam sputtering and attempting to get the clinging mud out of his eyes and hair would forever be priceless.

Evelyn ran out of the pool and over to Goliath as quickly as her soaked split-skirt would allow. She mounted her horse and kicked him hard in the flanks, the willow branches whipping her in the face as she plowed through without caution.

She ran Goliath through the fields at full speed until she reached the courtyard at Pemberley. Goliath turned towards the stables on his own and she slid off his back as soon as the grooms appeared. She said nothing to them as they took her horse's reins and stood there gaping at her in shock. Evelyn turned on her heels and walked over to the East Entry, trailing water behind her as she went. Once inside she silently swept by every wide-eyed servant she passed. Upon reaching the staircase she was joined by Darcy and Elizabeth who had heard that Evelyn had returned in an alarming state. Darcy was just about to go to her when she calmly said, "Darcy, my friend, how are you this evening? Hello, Elizabeth. I will be going up to my chambers and retiring for the night, will you be so good as to have a tray sent up for supper? Thank you, good night," and she ascended the grand staircase with a straight back and head held high. Darcy and Elizabeth were left speechless.

Moments later as the pair were attempting to find the words...any words...Colonel Fitzwilliam entered through the main hall and approached the stunned pair. Darcy and Elizabeth were further confounded when they saw the Colonel's mad-splattered face, hair, and coat as he wordlessly walked passed them and stormed upstairs.

It was some time before Darcy turned to his wife and said, "My dear, I feel I need some brandy. Would you accompany me to the library?" Elizabeth finally closed her mouth and nodded her silent assent and the two walked to the library, closed the door after them, and Elizabeth fell onto the overstuffed leather sofa. Darcy sat by her side after getting a large snifter of brandy. "Elizabeth? I have not one idea as to what is going on, but it seems as if fouling up a courtship may be a family trait?" he said with a most quizzical expression. Elizabeth began to titter, and she and Darcy spent the next few minutes laughing at the whole spectacle. After a moment Elizabeth excused herself to go see to Evelyn, as her whereabouts for those several hours was still unknown and cause for concern.

The Mistress of Pemberley went to Evelyn's chamber door and knocked gently. She was bid to enter by Ellen, Evelyn's maid, and informed that her mistress was taking a bath. Elizabeth was invited to stay and sit by the fire, which she did, and ordered some tea and biscuits to be brought up. After a while Ellen returned to the dressing room and shortly returned with a freshly scrubbed Evelyn in her nightgown and robe. Evelyn crossed the room to sit down next to Elizabeth and stared into the fire.

Elizabeth, becoming concerned that something untoward may have happened between Evelyn and the Colonel, asked gently "Evie? Whatever happened to you? You had us all frightened when you were gone for so long and then you returned in the condition you did. Did something happen between you and Colonel Fitzwilliam?"

Evelyn turned and saw the fright Elizabeth had mentioned present in her friend's eyes. "Elizabeth ... why are men so ... so ... crude and irritating?!"

Elizabeth quickly hid her grin behind her hand and asked Evelyn to clarify. "Well ... the other night, when I was singing for you and the other ladies ... the Colonel just stood there and laughed at me! I know I was being horribly improper, but we were all having such a good time and he ruined it. And today ... I fell asleep by this little pool I had found. I went there to find some peace because it has been so busy here and I have not slept well in days. I ... had the dream again ... it was so real this time and the Colonel awakened me. I must have screamed or some such thing, believing I was still asleep. I told him I was well but he kept pestering me. I tried to stand up and put my boots back on and he came too close to me, causing me to lose my balance and fall into the pool. Then, instead of coming to my aid he stood there on the bank and laughed at me! Again! He loves nothing more than to ridicule me, I am quite sure of it," Evelyn said angrily.

Elizabeth reached out her hand to soothe her troubled friend. "I am sure the Colonel does not wish to ridicule you, Evelyn. Darcy's cousin has always had an odd sense of humor, and I do not believe he was laughing at you. You were quite entertaining the other night," Elizabeth said with a chuckle at the remembrance, "everyone was laughing and enjoying themselves that evening, the Colonel as well. I cannot believe he did not attempt to assist you at the pool, that certainly does not sound like him, but perhaps the situation you were in was amusing and he was trying to make light of it and alleviate your embarrassment?" she posed.

Evelyn contemplated this, but since it did not fit her interpretation of the events, shrugged it off. Then she confessed, with a small smile, that the reason the Colonel was splattered as mud as well was the satisfying retaliation she took on him. At this Elizabeth just shook her head and laughed, and attempted to coax Evelyn into coming down for supper. Evelyn most certainly did not want to see Colonel Fitzwilliam again that day, so she requested a tray once more, and Elizabeth conceded to her wish. She embraced Evelyn on her way out, "I am relieved you are well, my friend, I will see you tomorrow at breakfast," and left. Leaning against the closed door behind her, Elizabeth closed her eyes and sighed. "Well, it seems that life at Pemberley never has a dull moment!", she chuckled to herself and went downstairs to return to the library and tell Darcy of Evelyn and Richard's misadventures.

After eating sparingly of the supper that was brought up, Evelyn lay down to troubled sleep. The same nightmare was haunting her....

Hours later, the peace of Pemberley was shattered by a piercing scream. Doors flew open and people started running down the halls, attempting to find the source of the terrifying wail. Darcy and Elizabeth immediately made their way to Evelyn's room, and upon opening the door found her bolt-upright in bed, wide-eyed, white to the lips and staring into the darkness of the room. Elizabeth ran over to her, threw her arms around the terrified girl, and stroked her hair as she rocked and soothed her.

The rest of the household stood in the door, sleep-muddled and concerned. More than one pair of eyes turned to Darcy for answers and he informed them that Miss Westcott had just had a nightmare is all, and begged that everyone return to their rooms, he and Elizabeth would see to her.

Darcy turned to go back to his chamber to wait for Elizabeth, as she would be able to calm Evelyn better than he could, and nearly bumped into the Colonel, who looked Darcy square in the eye and demanded to know what was going on with Evelyn. Darcy closed his eyes and covered them with his hand. After a while he nodded and bid his cousin follow him to the library, as they needed privacy ... and a glass of brandy or port.

Richard followed Darcy downstairs in silent turmoil. Even though he still did not know what to think of Evelyn's reaction to him by the pool earlier, and was even a little angry with her for throwing mud in his eyes, his mind was tormented by the thought that something was seriously wrong with her.

When they entered the library, in their nightgowns and robes, Darcy poured himself and his cousin some port and bid Richard to sit down. He sat across from the Colonel and looked at him earnestly. He took a deep breath and clasped his hands in front of him before he began; "Miss Evelyn Westcott was the daughter of a wealthy merchant. He had large trading operations in the Caribbean islands, as well as in Canada. She was raised solely by him, as her mother died in childbirth. Evelyn admits to be a bit spoiled as she was growing up. Her father indulged her in everything, and as he was, obviously, a man ... he was unable to give her a 'feminine' education, but he did his absolute best under the circumstances. She is well read, intelligent and witty, and quite the horsewoman as you have witnessed. I dare say she was a tomboy! She would scamper barefoot upon her father's merchant vessels and run through the fields. She had an elder brother, William, who would be about twenty-six now, I imagine. Their father sent William to Oxford for his education."

Again Darcy took a deep, steadying breath, "On the night that William was to return from his studies abroad to Fort George in Canada, Evelyn and her father had traveled to the port to greet him. They brought a few carts with them as well, for I believe they were picking up goods from the ship as well as William. It was a good reunion, they had not all been together for some years. On the way back to their estate, they were ambushed ... by American soldiers. You have heard, no doubt, of the war going on there now? Evelyn's family were some of the first casualties, I believe. The soldiers had mistaken their carriages and carts for an ammunition train on its way to the fort, and they attacked without mercy. Evelyn had seen her father and brother slaughtered before her eyes, and she was the only survivor that night." At the Colonel's shocked and dazed look, Darcy paused a moment before going on.

"Yes, a poor, terrified nineteen-year-old girl had to run through blood, gunfire, and smoke that night. Somehow, she found Goliath in that nightmare and she fled for her life on his back, taking a glancing bullet in the process. She arrived at Fort George covered in her and her father's blood, soot, and mud, half dead. To this very day, that poor child still has nightmares about it, Richard. I do not blame her for that."

"While she was recuperating from her ordeal, one of her father's attorneys had contacted the only relation Miss Westcott still had, albeit a distant one, the Countess Mountbatton. It is a testament to Lady Veronica's good nature that she immediately sent for Evelyn and arranged her transportation to England, and she took the young woman under her care. So, that is part of Evelyn's story, Richard. She lost her family, horribly, and had to leave everything and everyone she knew to come across an ocean to try to make a new life for herself, although her past one still haunts her."

Colonel Fitzwilliam sat in stunned silence, attempting to absorb the information that Darcy had just given him. A military man for the past thirteen years, Richard had seen his share of blood and battles, he had seen the hell of war firsthand. But he was an officer in His Majesty's Infantry and a man, it was to be expected. But a young girl, Evelyn, having to witness and experience the horrors that men could do to each other was so wrong and totally incongruous to Richard's morality, that he could not fathom it at all. "Poor Evelyn ... poor dear, sweet Evelyn." The Colonel sat there shaking his head and looking at Darcy as if he were about to cry.

"I know, my friend...it is too much to comprehend isn't it? I cannot imagine living through something like that. I am returning to my chambers, perhaps Elizabeth has finished comforting Evelyn. Good night, Richard," Darcy said as he placed his strong hand on his cousin's shoulder, and he left the Colonel alone in the library to his thoughts. He sat there for some time more, and completely mentally, emotionally, and physically exhausted, crept back to his bed to get what little sleep would come to him, haunted by the terrified look he had seen in Evelyn's eyes.

Morning came again, as it has a tendency to do. Elizabeth dressed early and went to Evelyn's chambers to check on the poor young woman. She was let in by Ellen, and instructed the maid that Evelyn was to have a quiet day in bed, for as long as necessary. Elizabeth had deduced that the strain her friend was under had contributed to the strength of the woman's nightmares, and unless she got some true, much needed rest, her mind would continue to be troubled. After talking to Ellen, Elizabeth went over to Evelyn's bed and told her to lie back down and stay under the covers. Evelyn, a lively, active sort of person, balked at the idea of staying abed or of her being an invalid, but soon saw the wisdom of Elizabeth's suggestion. She was sorely in need of rest, especially as Georgiana's ball was in two days!

Already that morning, other guests had been arriving. The Earl and Countess of Matlock, Colonel Fitzwilliam's parents, had arrived, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Edward Gardiner, Elizabeth and Jane's Aunt and Uncle. Although he was a tradesman, Edward Gardiner had impressed Darcy with his gentility, intelligence, and keen wit. The Gardiners had much to do with the upbringing of their two eldest nieces, and this was part of the reason why Lizzy and Jane were so different in manners and sense of propriety from Mary, Kitty, and Lydia, who were raised primarily by Mrs. Bennet. Thus, the Gardiners were a welcome addition to the family party, and they were fast becoming good friends with the Fitzwilliams, who were, in spite of being Lady Catherine's close relations, kind and good-humored people. They were even warming up to Caroline Bingley, whom they had met before and had believed to be unpleasant, but like everyone else, had found her new manners quite engaging.

Darcy and Elizabeth had been greatly relieved that the Bennets of Longbourn would not be able to attend the ball, much to Mrs. Bennet's dismay. With the preparations for Catherine's wedding, and Mrs. Wickham's appearance on their doorstep in a most pronounced delicate condition, Mrs. Bennet had her hands full, and could not leave Hertfordshire at that time. Mr. Bennet greatly desired to travel to Pemberley to see Lizzy at some time, but disdained balls and large assemblies. He would be going to see his daughter and son-in-law another month.

After Lizzy had seen to Evelyn, she went downstairs to the breakfast room to see her other guests. She loved her Aunt and Uncle dearly, and was always happy to see them. The Earl and Countess of Matlock she had met during her engagement to Darcy, and she was very fond of the couple that had become surrogate parents to her husband after he lost his father six years ago. Darcy had already come down and was animatedly conversing with everyone. When he saw Elizabeth come over to him, he quickly asked how Evelyn was faring. At the mention of her friend's name, Elizabeth noticed the Colonel's head turn to listen to the conversation. "Poor Colonel, it seems he may have some difficulty in his wooing of Evelyn. The girl thinks he hates her! I hope they have an easier time of it than Darcy and I did!"

"Evelyn is resting now. I suggested that she stay abed as long as necessary to fully recover," Lizzy said to a relieved Darcy.

"That is good advice, Mrs. Darcy. I hope she is well soon. Will she be able to have visitors later on?" Caroline asked.

"I believe so, but only for a short while. Evelyn should not be too taxed today."

"If I may inquire, what was the matter? Is she ill? That would be such a shame as I know Georgiana is looking forward to having her be at the ball"

"She is well, Miss Bingley. I do not know who of you know how she came to live with Lady Veronica, but I will say that she had some tragedy in her family, and it still troubles the poor woman. She had a nightmare last night, brought on by lack of rest, I believe," Elizabeth said. As these people were close friends and family, she did not believe that informing them of Evelyn's condition was a breach of trust or propriety. Everyone here could be trusted to be circumspect, or knew and cared for Evelyn.

"Oh yes. She did mention part of it to me earlier. I can completely understand," Caroline said somewhat sadly.

"Er...yes, well. I know that Miss Westcott will receive the best care while she is here, and should recover fully while in your hands, Elizabeth," said Lord Matlock.

"Yes, I hope Miss Westcott is quite well soon. I look forward to seeing her again. She and I had a such a nice conversation at your wedding breakfast and I would like an opportunity to become better acquainted with her," said Mrs. Gardiner cheerily.

"I am sure that Evelyn would like that as well, Aunt," Elizabeth said as she sat down with a small plate of toast. "Perhaps something this simple would not irritate my stomach so."

"Are you well, Elizabeth?" Georgiana asked sweetly, noticing her sister-in-law's reluctance to eat lately.

"I am quite well, thank you. Haha, you may all have to start calling me 'Mrs. Bennet, as it appears I have a case of 'nerves'," Elizabeth said to chuckles from the room.

"With all the strain of orchestrating the ball, and now one of your dear friends taking ill, it is no wonder you are feeling a bit under the weather, Mrs. Darcy. Perhaps you could take your advice and have a lie-in as well?" Caroline said.

"I may do just that, Miss Bingley, this afternoon. At this moment I find I have too much to do! But thank you for your suggestion, a rest does sound welcome indeed."

"If Georgiana or any of the servants need anything, I am quite sure that Jane, Mrs. Gardiner, and I would only be too glad to help," Caroline said looking to the ladies mentioned.

"Of course, it would not be a problem at all. You get all the rest you need, Lizzy," said Mrs. Gardiner.

"I could throw in my two pence as well, Elizabeth," offered Lady Matlock.

"You are all too kind. Thank you, I think I shall retire now, then," Elizabeth said softly. Darcy turned to escort her upstairs, thankful for no more need to display an unconcerned look.

"Are you all right, Dearest? Should I send for the doctor?" Darcy asked his wife when they were out of earshot.

"I am fine, my beloved. It is as I said, I am just tired. More from all the planning and events of yesterday than my condition. A small nap and I shall be as right as rain, you'll see," she said with a smile and a small kiss. Darcy led her up to their chambers, and after seeing that his wife was comfortable, made his way back down to the breakfast room.

"So, my little niece! You excited about your big day?" Lord Matlock asked with a wink and a grin.

"I am looking forward to the ball very much, Uncle, although I hope that I am not overwhelmed by all of the people," Georgiana said shyly.

"You should do splendidly, sister, do not fret. Elizabeth and I, as well as everyone else here will do our best to make you feel secure and ensure that you have a wonderful time," Darcy said with a proud smile to Georgiana. "She has come so far this past year, would be a shame if something happened to ruin this for her. I will make sure that nothing happens!" Darcy thought to himself with conviction.

"I am sure that it will be an event to remember. How splendid everything will be," Mrs. Gardiner said warmly.

"It will be spectacular. Mrs. Darcy has such great plans. I am quite sure that the ball will outshine every other event ever held," Caroline offered.

"It may be splendid, sister, but I hope that Elizabeth does not wear herself too thin. She did look rather tired," Jane said softly.

"I am sure that Mrs. Darcy will be right as rain after a little rest. Is that not so, Darcy?" Lady Matlock inquired.

"Yes, I believe she will be. I was not aware that she had spread herself so thin in the past few days. I shall endeavor to help her more," Darcy said looking out the window as was his custom when uncomfortable.

"Oh yes, Darcy. Offer to help at the last minute ... brave man, you!" Charles said with a laugh.

"Charles, you know as much about flowers and menus as I do!" Darcy said with a snort.

"Haha! Yes, indeed, I would say. That is why we leave such things to the ladies!" Lord Matlock said with a teasing grin at his wife.

"I would watch my tongue if I were you, father," the Colonel said with a smirk, "you may just give mother more fuel for her arguments."

Darcy turned to face his Uncle and raised an eyebrow. Lord Matlock satisfied his curiosity by stating that Lady Matlock believed that men invented things such as wars and politics so that it would appear that they were doing something useful, as they were worthless when it came to other matters. The whole room chuckled over this revelation.

"Oh, you gentlemen may laugh as much as you like at my expense, but I will have you know that I have changed my opinion on the subject," Lady Matlock said with a sly grin.

"Oh really, mother? And pray enlighten us," Richard said.

"Why, men invent such things as war so that they may escape being married, my son," she said with cool aplomb.

Darcy burst out laughing and said, "Good shot there, Aunt! I think you may have actually made Colonel Fitzwilliam blush!" to renewed laughter.

Richard stood there attempting to look indignant for as long as he could, but he did not want anyone to realize how this teasing barb had stung so soon joined in the mirth.

The Gardiners and the Fitzwilliams soon excused themselves to see to their rooms and to be taken on a tour of the house. Although both couples had seen Pemberley before, they were anxious to see what changes may have been made since the house acquired a Mistress at long last, and were curious about the preparations for the ball. Darcy had also promised Edward Gardiner and his Uncle that he would take them fishing before lunch, as they were all avid anglers.

The ladies retired to Georgiana's sitting room after the tours to discuss the ball and to go through Georgiana's wardrobe. Several gowns had been made for this and other events, but she had not yet decided on which to wear to her ball. There were many suggestions being thrown about the room, and the choices were narrowed down to three exquisite gowns. The ladies decided that they would await Elizabeth and Evelyn to join in the final decision. They did not have to wait for long, as both women entered soon after.

Elizabeth did not fall asleep, but the quiet and peace she had for a couple of hours did refresh her. Evelyn felt much revived after getting more sleep in the past day than she had in the past three altogether. The tension and strain was gone from her face, as was the haunted look from her eyes.

"Evelyn! It is so good to see you," Caroline said as she rose from her seat to kiss her friend on the cheek. "You are looking so much better. Are you feeling well?"

"Very well, thank you. The lie-in did wonders for me. I am so sorry if I disturbed everyone last night," Evelyn said with concern.

"There was no problem at all, Miss Westcott. We were only concerned for your well being," Jane said sweetly.

"I am happy that you are recovered also, Miss Westcott. We were just deciding on which gown I shall wear to the ball. I would love to hear your and Elizabeth's opinion on the matter," Georgiana said. "Oh, forgive me, Miss Westcott, this is my Aunt, Lady Matlock. Aunt, this is Miss Evelyn Westcott, a very dear friend of my brother and sister.

Evelyn curtsied to the great silver-haired lady. "Your Ladyship, it is good to meet you at last. I had not had the opportunity to do so at the Darcy's wedding breakfast. I have heard so much about you and your husband. All good things, of course," she said with a slight smile.

"And I have heard good things about you too, Miss Westcott. Very pleased to make your acquaintance. Well, isn't this a happy group?" Lady Matlock said jovially.

"Indeed we are! Evie, do you remember my Aunt, Mrs. Gardiner?" Elizabeth asked.

"Yes! How very nice it is to meet you again. How do you do?"

"Very well, thank you. I had mentioned earlier that I was looking forward to speaking with you again. We had such a pleasant talk at Netherfield."

"Indeed, we did. I would love to speak with you again as well," Evelyn said with a fond grin.

The ladies settled down to the task at hand, and at long last it was decided that Georgiana would wear a cobalt blue silk gown with peacock feathers in her hair, as that shade of blue complimented her eyes most becomingly. It was more elegant and grand than the usual frocks Georgiana was accustomed to, but it was cut in a flattering yet modest design, that suited the shy girl's tastes, and Darcy's sensibilities. The women went on to discussing what gowns they would wear and with what accouterments. Evelyn began to feel a bit uneasy at this, as she had no jewels with her or other finery. She had brought a serviceable gown, as she knew that she would be attending the ball, but it was not nearly as fine as the dresses the other ladies were discussing. Evelyn did not like ostentation or showiness, but she was of the opinion that she would stick out a bit and therefore, more noticeable in her plainness.

The gentlemen were on their way back to the house and lunch would be served soon, so the ladies dispersed to freshen up before they met in the dining room. Elizabeth had noticed Evelyn's pensive looks and asked her if she was feeling ill again.

"Oh, dear Lizzy, I am well. It is just that I know your 'plain' friend here will stick out like a sore thumb next to all the silk and lace the other ladies will be wearing."

"I do not think that will be a problem, Evie. Or has Ellen not said a word to you?" Elizabeth asked with a coy grin.

"Ellen? What has that girl done now?" Evelyn laughed. "Well, I was heading back to my rooms to read for a while, I shall have to interrogate my wayward maid as well!"

Evelyn went directly into her dressing room and found Ellen industriously rehanging garments and straightening out her riding habit. Evelyn stood there for a while, arms crossed in front tapping her foot until her maid noticed her.

"Can I help you Miss?" Ellen asked with some surprise.

"Ellen ... is there anything you wish to tell me?

"Why ... no Miss, not that I can think of," Ellen said furrowing her brow.

"Then why did Mrs. Darcy just inform me that I was not going to have a problem dressing for the ball and that you knew something about it?"

"Aaah! Forgive me Miss, but I was told to surprise you. It's a gift from her Ladyship, the Countess, you see and she wanted you to have it on the day of the ball. Would you like to see them?" Ellen asked.

"Them?" Evelyn said with some surprise.

"Well, the gown, slippers, wrap, and the jewelry ... yes, 'them'," Ellen said with a smirk.

"What on earth has that dear woman gone and done now..." Evelyn said as she sat down on a stool. "I would love to see them, but when did she do all this?"

"Her Ladyship had her own seamstress whip it up a month or so before we left, had the slippers made to match, and selected the jewelry from her own. I had them placed in a truck and stuffed it on the baggage rack with my things, so you'd never be the wiser" Ellen said with a giggle as she brought out a stunning cascade of garnet red silk and held it up for Evelyn's inspection. The bodice had a low neckline, which made Evelyn blush a little, and was beaded with garnets and tiny crystals, as were the hems of the cap-sleeves. It had a full, flowing skirt, and the bottom hem would seem to float just above the floor. With it were a pair of snow-white long gloves with tiny pearl buttons, a silk-fine white wool wrap trimmed in ermine, and garnet red silk slippers embroidered in roses.

Everything had taken Evelyn's breath away and tears had begun to form in her eyes at the sight of the Countess' beautiful gift and the kindness behind it. Ellen left the gown hanging and turned to a small, locked chest and opened it. She held something that caught the light and sent it sparkling everywhere and it caught Evelyn's attention. She looked upon what Ellen held in her hands and was astounded by the sight. A large diamond set in platinum and surrounded by tiny pearls. Directly under the diamond was a smaller garnet, cut and mounted the same way, and the entire pendant was on a string of the smallest pearls. It was beautiful. Ellen had in her other hand a pair of garnet and pearl earrings to match. Evelyn just sat there, staring at the necklace, then at the gown, and shaking her head at it all.

"I dare say that you will look quite the lady in all this finery, Miss. Like royalty," Ellen said cheerfully. "And I think it would bring out the green in your eyes, as well."

Evelyn helped her maid put everything away and went to sit by the fire and read for a while before meeting up with everyone for lunch. She kept imagining herself wearing the gown and jewels and would blush. "*Sigh*, look at me, carrying on so. William would say that I was acting like a 'girl'.."

Evelyn freshened up a bit and went downstairs to the dining room. As she passed Elizabeth she smiled and shook her head at her friend.

"So, Evie, did you find everything to your liking?" Elizabeth asked teasingly.

"Of course I did, Lizzy, just as you knew I would. However did you find out about it?"

"Ellen told me about it when she asked for special treatment for some trunks."

"Whatever is going on, Elizabeth?" Darcy asked curiously.

"Lady Veronica played a trick on Evelyn here and slipped a surprise into her wardrobe for the ball!" Lizzy said.

"Ah! You must show us, Evelyn! We all discussed what we are wearing tomorrow next so you must divulge as well," Caroline said teasingly.

"Oh, very well, you ladies may swoop down on my dressing room after lunch then," Evelyn said mockingly as she sipped her coffee.

Throughout the lunch, Evelyn had studiously and purposefully ignored Colonel Fitzwilliam. She was determined to never give him an opportunity to ridicule her again, as the man obviously took great joy in doing so. "What have I done to make him dislike me so,?" Evelyn mused again. While Evelyn was ignoring the Colonel, he was too busy attempting to covertly observe her. He studied her profile and expressions with intensity. The lack of attention on Evelyn's part and the abundance of attention on the Colonel's part was marked by both Darcy and Elizabeth, as well as one other. Lady Matlock was a keen observer of her fellow man, and fond of her son. She had noticed he was acting a bit subdued shortly after she arrived, and was hoping to discern the cause. As she watched her son attempt to hide his glances at Miss Westcott, her Ladyship also noticed that Miss Westcott refused to look towards Richard. "Hmm ... something has happened to my son, and I would wager that 'something' is named Miss Evelyn Westcott! I have never seen my son behaving so strangely, even over a pretty woman. Has he fallen in love at last? I will have to observe this young woman closely," Lady Matlock decided.

Soon the ladies excused themselves to see Evelyn's gown, and the men were going to the library to read the papers and talk about the fine day they had fishing. As Evelyn rose up out of her chair, Lady Matlock noticed her son move forward very slightly, then relax and follow the young woman with his eyes. "That does it! I am going to have to become better acquainted with this charming young woman, and ask Elizabeth about her, discretely, of course. Richard would hate it if I were to be seen interfering so in his life, but by Jove I will see that man settled and happy before I die!" Lady Matlock chuckled to herself.

While everyone was busy cooing over Evelyn's gown, Lady Matlock had motioned Elizabeth to sit next to her. Lizzy sat there and patiently waited for the chatter in the room to rise so it would cover their conversation.

"Elizabeth, my dear, have you noticed anything amiss with my son?" Lady Matlock asked in a low voice.

"Why yes, I have," Lizzy answered in a lowered voice as well. She esteemed Darcy's Aunt so highly that she would never hedge around any matter with her, not that it would work for her Ladyship had a keen and discerning wit.

"And may I assume correctly that his behavior may have something to do with a charming young woman that I have recently become acquainted with?" Lady Matlock inquired with a smirk.

"Your Ladyship may indeed," Elizabeth said with an answering smirk.

"Well, well! You and I are going to have a conversation later I dare say. I want details young lady," Lady Matlock said sitting back in her chair, eyes sparkling with mirth and delight.

Elizabeth hid her smile behind her hand and glanced at Darcy's Aunt. "Well, I now have aid from an unexpected quarter! Poor Colonel Fitzwilliam and poor Evie! They are surrounded on all sides and have nary a clue about the ambush they will be walking into. How delightful!"

After Evelyn had put the gown away, Caroline and Georgiana went to the music room to practice a duet that they had found, Jane went off in search of her husband, Evelyn went out to the stables to check on Goliath, and Lady Matlock and Mrs. Gardiner were invited to follow Elizabeth to Georgiana's sitting room, which she had sweetly offered as a place for any of the ladies to use while visiting.

Although her Aunt did not know either Colonel Fitzwilliam or Evelyn well, she was a very insightful and astute woman, and Elizabeth knew that if it weren't for her information and guidance, she never would have seen Darcy for the man he truly was. Perhaps her Aunt could offer some suggestion as to how to deal with the current situation. Lady Matlock had raised an eyebrow at Mrs. Gardiner's invitation to join them, but she trusted her nephew's wife's judgment, and allowed the woman to join them without a word.

When they reached the beautifully appointed room, Lizzy bade the other women sit, and rang for some tea. She turned to Lady Matlock and said, "Forgive me for inviting my Aunt to our little meeting. I found her insight and assistance during my own...'comedy of errors' involving Darcy immeasurably helpful and I thought she would be able to aid us in this as well." Lady Matlock gave a nod of acceptance and approval and smiled at Mrs. Gardiner who was sitting there looking at the two other women with an expression of growing understanding.

"Ah, yes, I see. Considering the fact that you and Lady Matlock are here I may assume it involves Colonel Fitzwilliam? And the other involved party must be Miss Westcott?" Mrs. Gardiner said after a sip of tea and a moment of reflection.

"Correct on both counts, Mrs. Gardiner. Now I fully comprehend why Elizabeth asked you along," Lady Matlock said in praise. She had already been impressed by Mrs. Gardiner upon their first meeting and now she could understand why Darcy had become quite fond of this woman. Lady Matlock was looking forward to furthering her acquaintance with Elizabeth's Aunt.

"Thank you, your Ladyship," Mrs. Gardiner said with a smile and nod.

"I am beginning to believe Darcy's opinion of this entire situation. He had told me that 'fouling up a courtship may be a family trait', as it appears our dear Colonel may be making as much of a muddle in his dealing with Evelyn, as Darcy did with me in the beginning," Elizabeth said, shaking her head.

"Hmmm, that may very well be my dear. I shall have to tell you of my husband's courtship of me some day," Lady Matlock said, rolling her eyes.

"So ladies ... what shall we do to ensure this concludes to everyone's advantage?" Elizabeth asked with a conspiratorial grin.

"Well ... I believe that..." and the ladies conspired until it was time to change for supper. They left the sitting room with smiles on their faces and anticipation for setting their plans in motion.

Chapter 6: The Water Sprite

Posted on Friday, 27 October 2006

Supper passed without incident and conversation was dominated by the upcoming ball. More guests were expected to arrive the following day, and already the inns at Lambton were quickly filling up. More and more deliveries were being made as the time drew closer, causing Darcy to mutter that he should put a sign above the door, "Darcy's Shipping and Delivery Company".

The gentlemen were only too eager to retreat to the billiard room after dinner, which made Lady Matlock exclaim, "Cowards! Making an expeditious retreat, are we?" to the enjoyment of the ladies.

"Do you really want their assistance in organizing a ball, Lady Matlock?" Elizabeth asked.

"Hmm ... no. You are correct, Elizabeth. Very well, foul scamps, be gone and to the port with you!"

"Well, after such a command, I shall not be one to disobey!" chuckled Bingley.

"But please make sure that you do not 'obey' too liberally, husband," Jane said coyly.

"My Lady..." Lord Matlock said, kissing his wife's hand and bowing gallantly. After thirty-five years of marriage, Lord Matlock could still make his bride blush. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner smiled at the display, then turned and smiled at each other fondly.

Once again Evelyn had not spoken to Colonel Fitzwilliam beyond a cold yet civil greeting and swept past him with nary a glance as she followed the ladies to the music room. Elizabeth glanced at her Aunt and Lady Matlock and saw that they had noticed this as well. "Well, we certainly have our work cut out for us," she mused.

The gentlemen had taken longer than usual at their port, 'staying out of our hair' as Lady Matlock snorted. The ladies discussed the guest list, the menu, and the dancing. A new dance style called 'the Waltz' had just become fashionable in the Town, and the married ladies and Caroline were anxious to try it. Georgiana and Evelyn looked at each other and blushed, both thinking about being in that close proximity to a man.

The conspirators noticed the blush on Evelyn's cheeks at the mention of the waltz, and each made a mental note to ensure that Miss Westcott danced a certain dance with a certain tall, dark, and handsome soldier. At this same time Evelyn was silently praying that out of all the dances to be had that evening, that she would never have to stand up with Colonel Fitzwilliam, even though he had threatened to dance with all the ladies staying at Pemberley earlier.

The group retired early, saying they needed to get as much rest as possible for the days ahead. Darcy and Elizabeth went to the library where Lizzy curled up on her husband's lap as he read to her in front of the fire. She soon nodded off, and Darcy just sat there holding her slight form, brushing her curls away from her face and kissing her cheeks, making her smile in her sleep.

The next morning began early for those at Pemberley. Guests began arriving before breakfast, servants were running to and fro getting people settled, the cooks were busily preparing the breakfast buffet and organizing things for later on, deliveries were being made, and the rest of the staff were seeing to the final preparations in the ballroom and conservatory. Elizabeth had talked Darcy into opening the conservatory and large balcony to the guests for the ball, since the ball was being held in high summer, the cool night air would keep dancers from fainting from heatstroke, and the conservatory would be a nice secluded place for people to talk away from the noise in the ballroom.

"Do not worry, beloved, there will be lights and footmen in the conservatory so you need not worry about couples enjoying the shadowy corners," Elizabeth said with a twinkle in her eye, recalling one of the newlyweds' pastimes.

Darcy had a large grin on his face and told Elizabeth that they should leave one shadowy corner, as he knew of one particular couple that would enjoy it very much.

The night before, Evelyn had mentioned to her friends that she would go riding today, as she thought the activity at the house in the morning would grate on her. They chuckled at her eagerness to run and hide, Darcy muttering that he very much wished to do the same, and after receiving and elbow in his side from his indignant wife, told Evelyn that her leaving for most of the morning would be fine. The Darcys sighed in unison, both thinking sadly on their friend's aversion to rushing people and noise, as well as the cause of it.

As early as possibly, Evelyn had left on Goliath and the great horse ran through the fields of Pemberley like the wind itself. He was fully enjoying himself on the Darcys' estate and reveled in his freedom with renewed vigor. His muscles rippled under his glossy blue-black coat and he was held in awe by all the grooms in the stables. Passers by had seen him race across the fields causing Darcy to receive several offers to purchase the horse and they were all turned away severely disappointed, for not only was it not his horse to sell, but Darcy knew that Evelyn would never part with the horse for anything.

Soon enough Evelyn had turned Goliath towards the little willow grove that she had found along the stream. The morning was turning hot and she wanted to cool down as well as give Goliath an opportunity to crop more water reeds. She entered the copse of trees and looked around to ensure that she had privacy. Goliath immediately began munching on the cool grasses and reeds in the area that he found delicious, and Evelyn sat down on the large patch of soft moss growing on the banks. She laid down on her side and began picking the wild irises that grew there making a chain out of them and humming to herself. She breathed in the cool, moist air that smelled of growing things and let all the tension drain out of her. Evelyn soon existed in a state of peace and calm.

Shortly after Evelyn had left on Goliath, Colonel Fitzwilliam had 'decided' to go riding on Zeus, after some discrete prompting from his mother. He did not notice which direction Evelyn had heading off in, and just spent some time enjoying the ride for its own sake.

After a little while the heat of the day began to get to him as well and he suddenly remembered the cool willow grove where he had found Evelyn one day. "Infuriating girl..." the Colonel snorted to himself. "I wonder if that is where she went off to this morning? I wouldn't doubt it, the sun is too warm this morning, but I do hope not. I would like to rest there myself alone for a while. Mother has been pestering me more than usual about marriage. Perhaps I shall meet someone at Georgiana's ball? I hope that I do for I sorely need ... I must get Evelyn out of my head!"

As Richard approached the copse he heard humming coming from inside the obscuring branches of the willows. He dismounted and left Zeus in the shade outside and ducked through the trailing branches until he reached the clearing. He had to cover his mouth so his gasp would not be heard and he quickly ducked behind a thick trunk. Swallowing, he slowly edged sideways until he could see Evelyn.

"It is she....the water nymph herself!" he said to himself over his beating heart, for there, in the middle of the pool stood Evelyn.

She had purple and blue irises entangled in her long, undone hair. Evelyn had taken off her coat, boots, and stockings and held up the hem of her split-skirt to her knees so that she could wade through the pool. It was so refreshing and cooling, and she just walked through the pool slowly, humming to herself and watching the sunlight dancing through the willow branches. "*Sigh* ... how lovely this is here. I would stay here forever like this if I could. I should march up to Darcy this instant and tell him he has a new tenant in the grove!" she chuckled to herself.

Richard watched her smile to herself and it made him nearly lose his control. "Oh ... I have never seen anything more lovely in my life!" He watched for a moment more and shut his eyes against the sight of the lovely sprite in the water, although the image would forever be burned into his memory and heart, and he quickly yet silently left the grove and fled back to Pemberley on Zeus.

"I must forget her ... I have to forget her! I could never marry her ... I could never support her or a family on what officer's pay I receive now ... however much I wish I could ... I cannot ... oh, sweet Lord! Why did this have to happen now?! Why did it have to be her!?" the Colonel lamented and let the wind wipe away the tears silently coursing down his cheeks.

Completely unaware that she had just been the subject of ardent scrutiny and heartrending lament, Evelyn left the pool and slowly began to put her riding boots back on. A wind had picked up and clouds were now drifting slowly by, bringing cooler air with them. Evelyn thought that it would be safe to ride back to the house without overheating and was growing hungrier by the moment. Already her stomach was growling noisily, causing Goliath to swivel his great head towards her searching for the strange sound.

"Tis my stomach, silly brute! You may have been eating this place bare but I haven't had a scrap since last night and I am famished! Let us go back to Pemberley before I faint from hunger."

Evelyn had Goliath head back to the house in a lazy gallop, as she did not want to overheat the ebony horse, and had a pleasant time attempting to find shapes in the clouds. After her refreshing time at the pool, she felt centered and refocused enough to deal with the crush and onslaught of busybodies and guests at Pemberley. "Hopefully I may escape to the library for a while after I have greeted everyone, or even before that!"

Evelyn had Goliath kneel and dismounted inside the stables out of sight of any guests that may not approve. As she helped the grooms remove Goliath's tack, she noticed that the Colonel's horse had recently returned from being ridden as well. "Good thing I did not run into him while I was out. That certainly would have spoiled my mood!"

Evelyn entered and was soon forced down the hallway at a trot as servants were busily moving furniture and decorations up and down the passage to the ballroom. She practically ran upstairs, dodging chambermaids and footmen bearing luggage. When she finally made it to her chamber, she leaned against the door to catch her breath.

Seeing Ellen looking at her bemusedly, she exclaimed, "It is a madhouse out there!" while laughing.

"Indeed it is, Miss. I went down to the kitchens to bring up some hot water for your bath and had to wait in a line! At least the other lady's maids I met seem to be nice, all except for Lady Tillsdale's, she looks like she ate a sour fig or something," Ellen said tittering.

"Oh! You are a Godsend, Ellen. I could use a bath right now to soak my muscles in or I will not be able to move at all tomorrow! I do not care for dancing much, but I would like to stand up with Darcy at least once," she said as she hobbled into the dressing room.

"Oh, I am sure there will be many gentlemen there that will catch your eye. And you will look so beautiful you won't sit out one dance!" Ellen said romantically and did a little pirouette.

"Ellen, perhaps you should put on the gown and go in my stead!" Evelyn said teasingly.

"I may do just that if you don't get in the tub while it's still hot, or you'll be good for nothing at the ball! Oh, looks like you forgot something, Miss" Ellen said as she reached into Evelyn's curling hair and drew out an iris.

"Thank you, Ellen. I think I shall keep it, could you put it in some water for me? Thank you," and with that, Evelyn closed her eyes and relaxed into the steaming, scented water for a long soak.

When the water started to get cold, Evelyn bundled herself in towels and a thick robe and sat in front of the fire, sipping coffee that Ellen had brought up. She snuggled into the warmth and looked at the iris on the mantel. "Today was a good day," she mused.

After she felt completely warmed-through she got dressed and headed downstairs to meet everyone for lunch. Most of the guests would be taking their meals in their rooms as they would be tired from traveling, and wished to be refreshed enough to join their hosts and fellow guests for supper. Evelyn was dressed in a light periwinkle-blue muslin gown, so she tucked the iris she saved into some curls, and nearly skipped downstairs.

She greeted her friends with a large smile and quietly thanked Elizabeth for not minding that she had 'ducked out' this morning. Her quiet time alone had done wonders for her. Elizabeth answered with a pat on her hand and a small smile. Evelyn said hello to everyone else and had to practically force herself to greet the Colonel who was looking at her with the most bizarre expression on his face. "Really ... that man! What does he mean by staring at me so...I shall ignore him and attend to my friends! I shall not let him ruin the wonderful day I have had so far.." she decided to herself and sat down by Caroline.

"What a beautiful day! How have you been, my friend? We have not had the time to speak to each other much lately," she asked Miss Bingley.

"I am doing very well, and yes, it is a nice day. And I understand what you mean about not conversing much, it seems that no one has the time to do anything except talk about or assist with the ball! But that is as it should be, this is a very special event for Georgiana and I do not begrudge all the activity involved," Caroline said apologetically.

"Well, perhaps a day afterwards we shall have a walk through the garden, then. Or a small picnic for you, Mrs. Bingley, Elizabeth, and Georgiana if everyone is feeling up to it. We shall have Mrs. Gardiner and Lady Matlock with us, as well if we can plan it before they leave us," Evelyn suggested.

"Oh that sounds delightful! Ladies? Evelyn just came up with a lovely idea; a picnic out in the garden, just for us after the ball. We will attempt to plan it for before you have to leave us, Mrs. Gardiner, your Ladyship," Caroline said brightly.

"That will be very nice. I have not been on a picnic in years, not since Lizzy and I were young girls," Jane said excitedly.

"That does sound lovely, indeed," said Mrs. Gardiner, "I would be sorry to miss it."

"You may count me in, just as long as we can keep those pesky menfolk away from us!" teased Lady Matlock.

"Do not worry, Aunt! While you ladies are scampering around the countryside we 'menfolk' will be terrorizing some trout," Darcy said with a smile to resounding 'Hear, hear!'s from Charles, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Lord Matlock.

Shortly thereafter, some of the other guests came into the dining room; Lord and Lady Tillsdale who owned property in Derbyshire and were friends of Old Mr. Darcy's, Mr. Anthony Pratt, who went to Cambridge with Darcy, and his wife Meredith, and Sir James Wellesley, another school friend and landowner in a neighboring county. Conversation soon turned to news and politics and Evelyn had to bite her tongue often as she most certainly did not agree with some of the views being presented. Getting into a heated debate with Darcy was one thing, starting an argument with complete strangers was another. Evelyn also had to refrain from barking at Colonel Fitzwilliam also. She noticed out of the corner of her eye that he had continued to stare at her throughout the lunch, and it was most irritating.

Over the course of the meal, Richard had missed several things that his near neighbors had said to him, so surprised and engrossed by Evelyn as he was. "The water sprite still wears an iris! Oh, if only she knew how she drives me to utter distraction.." he lamented.

Lady Matlock was becoming more and more amused by the Colonel's inattention to the conversation. "If only he knew how obvious he was being! I dare say he would turn scarlet!" she smiled to herself. At the same time, she was growing more and more worried by Miss Westcott's behavior. The young woman did everything she could to ignore Richard, almost to the point where it would be considered downright rude. "We have to do something about that! From what Elizabeth said they got along well enough in the beginning, but things turned quite sour after Evelyn got the impression my son was ridiculing her. We must find some way to change her opinion about him ... and soon!"

Evelyn rose and excused herself, saying that she had many things to attend to in preparation for tomorrow. She went to the library, muttering under her breath about 'thick-headed men..', and sat down in one of the overstuffed sofas. After a moment she got to her feet again and set to perusing the shelves for something to read. She found one of her favorite books and curled up in a large chair, intending to read for the rest of the afternoon.

Entirely too soon for her taste, Evelyn was interrupted in her reading by Colonel Fitzwilliam entering the library. He stood for a moment in the doorway and Evelyn saw that he was awaiting someone else, Lady Matlock.

"Ah, it has been too long since I have had a chance to look about this place. This was one of my favorite haunts at Pemberley, the other being the conservatory. I can spend hours in this room. Your Uncle George had such fine tastes in books, you know, and I think his son inherited this trait as well. Why I ... ahh ... Miss Westcott! So this is where you disappeared to! I do not blame you, you know," Lady Matlock said with false surprise. She knew full well that Evelyn had gone to the library.

"And what are you reading my dear? Ah, yes...Homer's 'Odyssey'. That is one of Richard's favorites, is it not?" Lady Matlock asked her son coyly.

"Yes mother, it is," the Colonel answered after a moment. He was studiously searching the shelves for...anything, really, but attempting to discretely look at Evelyn.

"Forgive me, my dear, I do not mean to pry, but are you looking forward to tomorrow or are you wishing all of us stragglers to vanish into the ether?"

"Your Ladyship is not prying," Evelyn said with a laugh, "Sometimes I do wish for everyone to disappear, so then I just do a bit of magic and make myself disappear instead! But, I am looking forward to the ball in some ways. I cannot wait to see Georgiana enjoying her evening, and I love spending time with my friends."

"Yes, my dear niece will be the center of attention tomorrow, and after seeing the gown that was chosen I can imagine why! She will be a vision, as you will also. Richard, I cannot wait for you to see the ensemble that Miss Westcott will be wearing tomorrow evening, I dare say she will be quite beautiful," Lady Matlock said watching the blush spread over Evelyn's cheeks at the compliment, then watch them pale and her lips tighten when she made the remark to her son.

Colonel Fitzwilliam stood there in stunned silence for a moment at his mother's bold statement, then, with lowered eyes he softly said, "Miss Westcott would look beautiful in anything." He raised his eyes to meet Evelyn's startled face, then quickly excused himself and left the library as quickly as he could without running.

Lady Matlock sat there silently fuming at her son for leaving so quickly and ruining her attempt to get Evelyn to talk to him civilly. Evelyn sat there staring at the closed door, chewing on her lip in confusion. "Why would he compliment me so when he dislikes me? Is he ridiculing me again?"

Noticing that Evelyn was becoming vexed over the Colonel's behavior, Lady Matlock moved quickly to save the situation. She excused herself as well, saying that she had interrupted Evelyn long enough, and just as she was going through the door, stopped and remarked to Evelyn, "I do apologize for my son, Miss Westcott. Brave as he is in battle and standing in front of guns and cannons, he is uneasy with and intimidated by pretty young ladies." Evelyn dropped her eyes again in embarrassment, then Lady Matlock finished with, "especially those he particularly likes", and quickly closed the door behind her, barely catching the look of shock on Evelyn's face. "Hmm..yes, I think that will do nicely," the older woman thought. She made her way up to her chambers, chuckling to herself. Lady Matlock passed Elizabeth on her way and winked at her. "Things are underway," she whispered to her fellow conspirator and entered the room. She made her way over to her dressing chamber suddenly stopping and wondering why Elizabeth had looked so pale.

Dinner was busy and noisy, for all of the guests joined the group for supper. There were a few more people there that had missed lunch, one of them a Lord Geoffrey Rupert, who was seated next to Evelyn.

Evelyn had a very quiet, yet pleasant conversation with the young man, discussing books, poetry and music. He was an accomplished violin player and had just finished a stint in Vienna, studying with the masters. Lord Rupert found Evelyn to be lively and engaging, and very much looked forward to talking to her in the future. Evelyn, on the other hand, had her eye on him with Georgiana in mind. The two quiet, shy, and talented young people would get along very well.

Lady Matlock sat across from Evelyn growing irritated at the interloping Lord Rupert. "Do not get too close, young man," she thought in vexation. The general noise in the dining room made overhearing any one conversation nearly impossible, so the great lady could not follow the trend of Evelyn's and Lord Rupert's. When dinner was finished, the gentlemen rose to retire to the billiard room, and the ladies went to the music room for coffee. Georgiana nearly refused to play this evening, due to the size of the group, but Caroline stepped in and said that she would play a duet with her. Evelyn was petitioned to play that evening as well, and finally submitted to the group-pleading of Elizabeth, Lady Matlock, and Mrs. Gardiner.

The gentlemen arrived in good time, and the entertainment began. Lord Rupert immediately sought out Evelyn, and shyly asked if she were to play. Lady Matlock ground her teeth in irritation, then nearly sighed aloud in relief when she noticed Evelyn's frequent glances at Georgiana, and audible comment that Miss Darcy played very well and was by far the most talented player of the group.

Georgiana blushed at the compliment and was escorted to the piano-forte by Caroline. They began a light and airy duet, well suited for the occasion, and it drew the admiration of everyone present. Evelyn watched Lord Rupert out of the corner of her eye and noticed him tapping his foot along to the music and smile. When the ladies were finished, they were greeted with effusive applause. Miss Bingley rose and curtsied, bid Georgiana to stay seated and went to sit down, leaving an anxious young woman behind.

Darcy rose and went over to his nervous sister, bending his tall frame to whisper in her ear. He smiled down at the visibly relieved girl and made his way back over to his wife. Georgiana took a deep breath, and began to play a piece by Beethoven, one of Darcy's favorites. Elizabeth took her husband's hand in hers, and remembered the time she had first sung and played that particular tune in this very music room.

Evelyn noticed the smile spreading on her neighbor's face and leaned over to quietly say, "Miss Darcy is an angel on the piano-forte, is she not, Lord Rupert?"

"Yes, indeed. I have never heard anyone play so well. Not even among the masters in Austria!" the young man said, enrapt. Evelyn sat back in her seat and smiled. "Hopefully, cupid's arrows would be striking a certain shy young woman soon, as well," she mused, and thought about how to get this shy young Lord to ask Georgiana to dance the waltz.

Evelyn waited until Georgiana was begged to play another song and was followed by Caroline playing a set of two before she sat down at the piano-forte herself. She allowed her two friends their shining moments when attention would be fresh and the guests eager to hear music. By the time she was to play, groups were starting to form and conversations initiated, therefore, the spotlight was not on her or her playing for the rest of the evening. Georgiana was too young to get married, being only just seventeen, but she was not too young to meet promising men and form acquaintances. The right young man for Georgiana would have to be a patient person, as it would take some time to fully draw the young woman out of her shell, and possibly even more time for her overprotective brother to accept the idea of his sister being wed to anyone. Evelyn hoped that Lord Rupert would be such a man.

"So, Lady Matlock, what occurred earlier today?" Elizabeth asked in a low voice. The conspirators had formed a knot over by a corner so that they could discuss events.

"Well, I had guessed correctly that Miss Westcott had gone to the library after lunch, so after some time had passed I had Richard escort me there. I had made a comment to him that he should see her tomorrow in her gown, as she would no doubt look stunning in it and he remarked that Miss Westcott would look beautiful in anything. Well, I dare say that put her into confusion, but the boy almost made matters worse by making a very hasty retreat. I had to recover the entire moment by telling her that Richard is most shy and unlike himself around pretty women, especially around those that he likes.." Lady Matlock informed Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner, "and then I left with that statement hanging in the air."

"Did she respond in any way?" Mrs. Gardiner asked with no little curiosity.

"I did not allow her any time to say anything, but I did catch a glimpse of her face as I closed the door behind me. Much confused and shocked I would say. I think I made the dear girl think, at least."

"Let us hope so, Lady Matlock," Elizabeth said before she wished her friends well and returned to the rest of her guests.

Everyone soon retired to their chambers after Evelyn finished her set. It was to be a very busy day tomorrow.

After bidding their guests a fond night, Darcy escorted his wife to their chambers. After changing into their bed clothes, Lizzy lay on her side, gazing into her husbands eyes and ran her fingers through his thick, curling hair.

"Beloved, I am so thankful that we'll never have to go through courtship again," she sighed. When Darcy drew his brows together in his questioning look, she informed him of her small group and of some of their plans.

"Well, for your sakes I hope my cousin never catches wind of your planning. He can be a proud man, you know," Darcy said in warning.

"Oh, I think I have learned how to deal with proud men, Mr. Darcy. But I pray that our plans come to fruition for Evie and the Colonel. They are both such good people and dear friends, and I want to see them both as happy as you and I are. I sincerely believe that they would be perfect for each other, and if you have seen the way that your cousin looks at Evelyn, you would see how ardently he loves her. If only she would open her eyes and see past her own...prejudices of him, she would see it too!"

Darcy looked at his wife fondly. He realized that she was acting out of love for her friends, and it touched him deeply. Darcy still thanked God everyday for bringing such a wonderful, kind, and loving woman into his life. "Dearest, if you need any assistance from the male perspective, I would only be too glad to join your efforts."

"Thank you, my love," Lizzy said softly and kissed Darcy. The two spent the rest of the night as only those completely in love can.

Chapter 7: Georgiana's Ball

Posted on Sunday, 29 October 2006

A flurry of activity was begun before dawn and the day of Georgiana's event. Footmen, maids, underbutlers, valets, gardeners, and servants of every sort were rushing around the first floor of Pemberley, putting finishing touches on the decorations and settings. It was a whirlwind that swept up the guests as well. Orders were put in for garment adjustments, shoes polished, hot water, teas, tonics, pressings, and anything else that would keep a chambermaid or valet wishing to pull out their own hair.

Evelyn's lady's maid was quite fortunate in her Mistress. Ellen had seen to everything that Evelyn would need during the past few days; her gown and gloves were pressed and laid out, her stockings were seen to, her jewelry polished, and her hairstyling implements were sitting on the vanity. Evelyn's hair was currently in ribbons, and the two young women sat in front of the morning fire, drinking coffee and chatting amiably about the coming evening.

"So, I hear that you talked to a handsome and charming young man last night." Ellen said smiling over the rim of her cup.

"Yes, he was very gentlemanly and pleasant, but he is not for me."

"Whyever not? Young, handsome, and a Lord! You should snatch that one up, Miss Evie," Ellen said in consternation.

"A Lord who is also shy and a very talented musician, which means that he would be perfect for..."

"Ah, for Miss Darcy, eh? Are you playing matchmaker now? Oh that's a good one," Ellen snorted.

"Not 'matchmaking' per se, it is more ... pointing out to young men and women the direction they should be heading," Evelyn said indignantly.

"Well, I dare say that you should be concentrating on pointing out to yourself then."

"I will meet the right gentleman at the right time, Ellen. I am not in any hurry, by the by, to do so at the moment."

"I think that by not being in any hurry, you might be missing the man intended for you then because you're too busy looking at the scenery!"

"When I meet him, I will know it, Ellen," Evelyn said with a sardonic smile. "Now, what say you to getting me ready? I am famished and need more in my stomach than coffee."

"Very well, if I must," Ellen said, dramatically rolling her eyes.

"I think I may be rubbing off on you in the wrong way, Ellen," Evelyn said, and the two women laughed and set to getting ready.

The breakfast room was filled to capacity, and the buffet was being replenished already. Evelyn smiled at those guests she had already met and attempted to get a plate. She made sure to eat more than usual for breakfast, knowing that she was going to need it later on. She found an open seat and took it, noticing too late that she was next to Colonel Fitzwilliam. He gave her a small smile and a greeting.

"Good morning to you also, Colonel Fitzwilliam," she said almost coldly, and intended on eating her meal in silence, until she heard Lady Matlock gaily say, "A beautiful morning to you, Miss Westcott."

Evelyn looked up and saw Mrs. Fitzwilliam sitting across the table from her. She hastily swallowed her bite of eggs and bid the woman a good morning. "A fine start to a grand day. Wouldn't you agree, Miss Westcott?"

"Yes, it is a fine day so far, your Ladyship," Evelyn responded and attempted to sneak a bite of toast in before Lady Matlock spoke to her again. Lady Matlock was thankfully interrupted by his Lordship before she could say anything else, and Evelyn finished her breakfast as quickly as propriety allowed and excused herself from the table. Colonel Fitzwilliam gradually unclenched his hand under the table and sighed, attempting once again to abolish thoughts of Evelyn from his mind, which was excruciatingly difficult, as she had trailed the scent of gardenias behind her as she left.

Richard was resolved to do one final thing; he would give Evelyn a gift, a parting gift, anonymously, of course, as a way for him to leave her behind and attempt to forget her. He went to Pemberley's hothouse and spoke to the gardener about having something taken to Miss Westcott's room shortly before the ball.

Evelyn went out to the stables to visit Goliath. She would be unable to go riding today, for if she did, she would certainly be too sore to dance this evening, but she wanted to see how the great horse was faring with all of the numerous strange equines about the place. When she saw him in the stall, he had his head down and was snorting, not a good sign at all. She opened the door and went in, picking up a brush on the way. She stood there for some time, softly singing to the agitated stallion, brushing his mane and soothing him. She had realized earlier that he may be upset by all of the noise and extra horses, so she had stashed a handful of sugar cubes and a small amount of tobacco in her pocket. He quieted under her gentle ministrations, and nickered softly in thanks for the treats, tobacco being his favorite although he received it very infrequently.

When Evelyn noticed Goliath pricking up his ears and holding his head up a bit, she gave him one final embrace, and with promises of a ride tomorrow or the day after, left her beloved friend to return back to the house. As she was leaving the stable and stepping out with the sun in her eyes, she nearly stepped into Darcy who reached out to steady the young woman.

"Oh! Darcy, thank you. I was momentarily blinded."

"Are you well, Evie?", after receiving an affirmative, Darcy asked how she had been the past few days. "Any more bad dreams?"

"No, thank the Lord. Lizzy saw to it that I got the rest I sorely needed, and it has put made me right as rain," Evelyn replied in relief. "Speaking of Elizabeth, how is she faring? I have not had the opportunity to speak to her much the past few days, with her busy finalizing preparations for the ball. Is she well?"

"A little more tired, perhaps, but she is firm on the position that it is only from all the activity and guests. Lizzy feels a bit ill during the mornings, but is full well by lunchtime. I cannot wait to tell everyone, Evie! I want my family and friends to know how happy and proud I am!"

"I do not think that should be a problem, Darcy. Everyone will be able to tell from your expression."

"I am the happiest person alive, Evelyn. I am married to the loveliest woman, I have a great family, I have the best friends, and now I am going to be a father. I so dearly wish that you have the happiness that I do someday, Evie. Speaking of which, do you have your eye set on any of the young gentlemen here, or are you waiting to meet him at the ball as your typical fairy princess does?" Darcy asked teasingly.

"No, Darcy, I do not have my eye on anyone at the moment," Evelyn said shaking her head. "If I happen to meet a gentleman at the ball this evening, that would be nice, but I will not be purposefully scouring the ranks of young men for one."

"One day, Evie, your eye will be caught by someone. Probably by the man you least expect! Who knows, you may know him already! He may be directly under your very nose without you realizing it," Darcy said with a sly grin.

Evelyn looked up at him searchingly, and was answered by Darcy turning back to the house and saying over his shoulder, "It is usually the last person you would expect, and when the realization hits you, good luck!" and was gone with a laugh.

Evelyn walked slowly to the gardens to ponder Darcy's not-too-subtle hint that she had already met someone who, presumably, was attracted to her.

"Lord Rupert? No, I have already directed his attentions towards Miss Darcy and he seems to be genuinely taken with her ... Sir James Wellesley? No, he seemed to disdain a woman with strong opinions of her own ....Mr. Hartnett? He has not shown me any marked attention ... Colonel Fitzwilliam?? No, most certainly, definitely, absolutely not! Who would ridicule a person that they were supposedly fond of, regardless of Lady Matlock's statement? I could understand a person being uneasy and nervous around the object of their affection, but one would not be rude or seek to humiliate the person."

Evelyn sat down onto the closest bench and pondered the meaning of Darcy's words for sometime, for she was intrigued by puzzles of all kinds.

Evelyn attempted to hide in the library later that day, but was put off by the crowd of gentlemen sitting around reading papers and discussing news. She could not find one quiet corner in the entire house, so retired to her chambers, ordering a tray for lunch. Evelyn needed the peace before the veritable storm that would be this evening. She knew that guests for the ball would begin arriving around six, so that gave her a few hours to read quietly before she had to prepare. Too soon for her taste it was time to get ready, so she put down her book and took a lukewarm bath. After stepping out of the large copper tub, Evelyn dried off quickly and put on a silk robe. She sat at her vanity, brushing out her long, wavy hair as Ellen readied the styling utensils.

"Are you nervous, Miss? I think I am about to burst, and I'm not the one going to a ball!" Ellen said with a laugh.

"A little nervous, mostly because I do not wish to embarrass Darcy, Lizzy, or Miss Georgiana tonight," Evelyn said chewing on her lip.

"Well, just don't go sliding down banisters or throwing books at people and you'll do just fine," Ellen said teasingly.

"Ellen...you know I only did that once. And he deserved it! Calling red-Indians craven barbarians! How dare he?" Evelyn said heatedly.

"Well, some people aren't all that cultured or bright now, are they?"

"Most certainly not. Hopefully I helped change the gentleman's mind. Or put a book-shaped dent in it," she said and Ellen giggled. After her hair had been brushed and dried, Ellen began putting it into intricate curls and braids, and left some pieces to curl down the back of Evelyn's neck. Evelyn had a natural blush to her cheeks and lips normally, so Ellen typically had to forgo applying makeup, which Evelyn was grateful for. Evelyn sat as her maid slipped her gown over her head, neatly leaving her hair undisturbed, and fastened it up in back. Next came the slippers, which fit perfectly, and the jewelry. Evelyn put the long gloves on last, took a deep breath, closed her eyes and turned around to face the full-length mirror. Then she slowly opened her eyes and stood there in mute astonishment while Ellen looked on in glowing approval and pride.

"Miss!" she said breathily. "You are so beautiful! You'll knock everyone off their feet and have the young men's hearts in your hand! I wish the Countess could see you right now."

Evelyn reached up one hand to touch the large diamond sparkling at her neck. She did not look herself, at all, in her own opinion. "Who is this woman in the mirror? It cannot be me!" she thought in amusement.

Evelyn turned to Ellen and asked, "So? Do you think this shall do?"

"Oh, you...you know full well it does. It becomes you extremely well. Now, here's your wrap. Get yourself downstairs now!" and Ellen pantomimed kicking Evelyn out of the door.

Evelyn took another deep breath, held her chin up, winked at Ellen and left her room. Thankfully, she ran into Caroline heading to the stairs.

"Caroline! How well you look this evening! Simply divine," she said to her friend with a large smile.

"Evelyn? Upon my word you look absolutely stunning!" Caroline said in amazement and kissed Evelyn on the cheeks.

Evelyn blushed at the compliments and bid Caroline accompany her downstairs, as she "did not know if she could face the throng alone". The descended the grand staircase arm-in-arm, Caroline maintaining a slow pace as to allow the crowd in the hall a chance to see them, much to Evelyn's amusement and dismay. She had never liked to be the center of attention or subject of scrutiny.

There was an audible hush in conversation as heads swivelled to watch the ladies coming down the stairs. Then approving 'ooh's and 'ahh's were heard and Evelyn looked at Caroline's face. The tall Miss Bingley certainly knew how to deal with such attention, and she kept her countenance pleasant, yet smooth and unmoved by the praise. Evelyn swiftly copied the expression and quickly scanned the crowd looking for her other friends. Darcy, Lizzy, and Georgiana were by the entrance in the receiving line, and the only others that she recognized were the Gardiners. She pointed them out to Caroline, and the two made for the friendly couple.

"You both look completely lovely this evening, Miss Wescott, Miss Bingley. How do you do," the kind Mrs. Gardiner said and curtsied.

"Very well, thank you, Mrs. Gardiner. And how does the evening find you and Mr. Gardiner?"

"We are both well, and excited. This looks as though it shall be a fine ball. There are many fine gentlemen and women here tonight," Mr. Gardiner said.

"I am thankful that Elizabeth convinced Darcy to open up the balcony and the conservatory this evening. With this many people, room and air may become scarce," Evelyn said while Caroline was scanning the crowd.

"Ah, I see them now. Oh, do please forgive me, but I finally found my brother and sister. I have not seen them since breakfast. Excuse me please," Caroline said, curtsied and left to find her way over to Charles.

"Miss Westcott? I can imagine how full your dance card is going to be this evening," Mrs. Gardiner said with a sly smile and watched the blush spread over Evelyn's cheeks. "Mr. Gardiner, shall we?"

"Certainly, my dear. Miss Westcott, will you allow me?" Mr. Gardiner offered, and Evelyn was escorted into the ballroom. As they entered the room, Mrs. Gardiner nodded at Lady Matlock, who hurriedly scanned the crowd for a scarlet coat, and ended up finding a knot of them over by the punch bowls. Lady Matlock asked her husband to find and send her Richard after the first dance.

The Gardiners and Evelyn stopped over by a group of business acquaintances of Edward's. Darcy, fully impressed by his new Uncle's acumen and wit, had introduced him to several men in Town who were influential in trade, and Mr. Gardiner was quickly invited to join their ranks. The Gardiners had prospered greatly in the past few months and they attempted to pay the kindness back but were gently and repeatedly rebuffed. If it weren't for the Gardiners bringing their niece to Lambton, Darcy and Elizabeth would probably not be married now, and it was the very least Darcy could do for his esteemed relations.

Evelyn was introduced, and a young man, Mr. Jonathan Mertell had asked for the first dance. Evelyn graciously accepted, but was secretly displeased by the foppish nature of the man. She was gratefully interrupted by the appearance of Caroline and Jane who arrived, and was spared having to accept the request for dances from a nearby group of Mr. Mertell's fellow peacocks.

"Caroline! Hello, Mrs. Bingley," she said brightly, "you are looking very fine this evening, although I believe you have forgotten a few things." When Jane looked at her questioningly she answered, "I thought your ensemble came complete with wings and a halo, but you seem to have left them in your chamber."

Jane and Caroline laughed merrily and they all joined Mrs. Gardiner. Soon afterwards, a hush came over the crowd and Evelyn turned towards the doorway to see Darcy entering with Elizabeth and Georgiana on his arms, and wearing an impossibly wide grin of happiness and utter pride. Elizabeth looked stunning in her cream silk gown embroidered with flowers and sewn with pearls, and Georgiana was a vision in her rich blue gown. The ladies all smiled at one another, and the ones with partners began to search them out. Evelyn informed Caroline about her dancing partner and the wish that she would hurriedly sprain an ankle, which made Caroline titter.

Several of Miss Bingley's acquaintance from Town were present, and they at first avoided the woman they knew to be caustic and overly critical. Observing her move through the crowd amiably nodding to people with a gentle smile on her face aroused curiosity in many. One of which was burly Lord Alfred Douglas, a wealthy landowner from the Lake District. He had always enjoyed Mr. Bingley's company, but like most other men, was formerly put off by Caroline Bingley's snobbish and mercenary behavior. When he had first heard about Darcy's marriage, Lord Douglas had chuckled over the thought of Miss Bingley imploding at the news. Yet, here she was, enjoying herself by the look of it, and with the group known to be closest to the hosts. Not to mention the fact that she did indeed look very lovely.

Lord Douglas screwed up his courage and walked up to Caroline and made a deep bow, "Miss Bingley."

"Ah, Lord Douglas, what a pleasant surprise! I had not known that you would be here this evening, my brother shall be happy to see you," Caroline said brightly. "Lord Douglas, may I introduce my friend, Miss Evelyn Westcott? Evelyn, this is Lord Alfred Douglas, a good friend of Charles'," and after curtsies and bows were exchanged, Lord Douglas replied, "Ah yes, Miss Westcott, I have heard of you. You are a good friend of the Darcy's, yes? And you are staying with the Countess Mountbatton. Pleasure to make you acquaintance, Miss Westcott. *Ahem*, Miss Bingley? If you are not otherwise engaged, may I have the pleasure of the first set?"

Caroline was startled for a moment, as she had never had the impression that her brother's friend liked her at all. He had certainly never behaved friendly towards her, but it was with a pleasant smile and a nod that she extended her arm to the gentleman to be led to the dance floor. Evelyn stood behind for a moment, smiling at her friend's fortune for Lord Douglas seemed a very pleasant man, before Mr. Mertell had come to escort her away as well. "Please Lord, let the first dance be a brief one..."

A beaming Darcy had led Georgiana on the floor for her first dance. She was resplendent in her dress and blushing furiously at being the center of so much attention. Colonel Fitzwilliam had led Elizabeth to the floor, followed by Lord and Lady Matlock, the Gardiners, the Bingleys, Caroline and Lord Douglas, and a few other couples with Evelyn and her partner near the end of the queue.

The music began and the dancers went into a Quadrille, circling each other and the floor. It was a beautiful mix of color and motion, and thankfully for Evelyn, over fairly shortly. She curtsied to her partner and directly after being led off of the floor, stated that Elizabeth had called her attention. She smiled and left the dandy as quickly as possible. It was a good turn indeed that Lizzy happened to be directly behind Evelyn and she went to her friend to complement her on everything.

"Oh, Lizzy! What a beautiful ball you have planned! Everything is exquisite and you are quite stunning this evening, my friend. Why, you are practically glowing!" Evelyn said merrily.

"Thank you, Evie. Although, between you and I, I think this is the last ball I want to hold for quite some time. And you ... look at you! So beautiful tonight, Evelyn! Darcy, doesn't Evie look wonderful?" she asked her husband, arching one brow at him, as Evelyn protested hearing any more flattery.

"Evie, you are breathtaking this evening! Is that not so, Fitzwilliam!" Darcy said loudly to get his cousin's attention. The Colonel turned upon hearing his name and his eyes fell on Evelyn. He stood there for a moment, attempting to force his mind to either close his mouth or get it to say something.

"Miss Westcott," he said performing a deep bow. When he straightened again he saw his anonymous gift to her entwined in her hair, delicate and perfect white irises. "Yes, Darcy ... she is breathtaking ... as always ... pray, excuse me," and he turned on his heel and walked over to his parents, wanting to be away from Evelyn and remembering that his mother had requested his presence after the first dance.

Elizabeth stood there in mute frustration. First it was Evelyn who did not wish to be near the Colonel, now it was the Colonel who did not want to be near Evelyn. Whatever was she to do to straighten out this mess! Lizzy was about to have Darcy ask Evelyn to dance when she heard a particular voice that froze her heart:

"And where IS my nephew?! Not at the door to receive me? Highly improper! I have never been treated so rudely before in this house! The pollution I feared is greatly apparent!"

Mr. Darcy froze and looked at Lizzy in mortification. After taking a deep breath, Darcy turned to face Lady Catherine and stood with his jaw clamped firm. Elizabeth went to stand next to her husband, discretely slipping her hand into his and giving it a firm squeeze, and received a gentle answering pressure that relieved her greatly. Darcy then shot a glance at Evelyn, who nodded and reached for Georgiana's hand.

"Lizzy? Would you like to accompany Miss Darcy and I for some punch?" Evelyn asked hurriedly.

Elizabeth looked startled, and when she received a nod from Darcy for her to go with them, she gave her husband a worried look and went off with Evelyn.

"Whatever is going on? Why is Lady Catherine here, I did not think she was invited?" Georgiana asked Elizabeth in obvious agitation.

"She was certainly not invited. The gall of that woman to show her face here after how she treated Fitzwilliam! I cannot believe it!"

"Lizzy, calm yourself, please? Miss Darcy, do not fret so. Darcy shall handle everything, you will see. Come now, let us have some punch and go over to observe the dancing. Really, neither of you should worry over this. Ah, look there! Lord and Lady Matlock and the Colonel are heading over to Darcy! Those four altogether should be able to handle one harridan, don't you think?" Evelyn asked brightly, trying to ease her friends' worries.

Darcy walked slowly towards his Aunt, his stern face fixed on hers. When he reached her, he did not bow, but stood there with one fist on his hip.

"Darcy! You did not greet me at the door! Have you lost all sense of propriety now? I knew that would happen; however, that is not why I have come. Word reached me that you were giving a coming-out ball for my niece and I never received an invitation to appear! Have you no sense of duty or family, either?"

"Of course he does, Catherine, and don't you dare say otherwise!" Lord Matlock nearly growled as he appeared at his nephew's side. "Now, come with me this instant, sister. You are making a scene," and with that he took Lady Catherine by the elbow and escorted her out of the hall and down towards the library, where they would have some privacy. As they walked down the hallway they saw Anne still standing in the entranceway with Mrs. Jenkinson. Darcy walked over to Anne and bowed.

"I hope you are well after your journey, cousin? Are you in need of anything? Refreshment or someplace to lie down?" he asked gently.

Anne looked up at her cousin tearfully. Although she had been told most of her sickly life that she was to marry him, in truth, she was always slightly afraid of the tall, grim, and stoic Darcy, and most certainly did not want to marry him. But Lady Catherine would not be denied in the matter. Anne was happy that Darcy had married Elizabeth Bennet, not only so she no longer could be forced to marry her cousin, but the former Miss Bennet had seemed to be a nice, friendly, and lively person, and Anne had secretly liked her very much. Anne was extremely upset by the shockingly rude behavior of her mother, and out of her entire memory, this was the first time that Darcy had spoken to her so kindly.

Darcy stepped up and put a strong arm around the girl's frail shoulders, "There, there, my cousin. It shall be all right. Lady Matlock!" Darcy said loudly to get his Aunt's attention as she swept by following her husband, "could you please take care of Anne for the moment? Unfortunately, I believe things may get unpleasant, and Anne should not have to hear any of it. I would also say that she probably needs a bit of rest ... and some tea and sweet biscuits?" he inquired, smiling down on the small, thin woman.

"Of course I will. Come with me, Anne. We shall go upstairs to Georgiana's sitting room, which is nice and quiet, and ring for some tea. How does that sound, dear?" Lady Matlock asked gently, and the two women went upstairs with Mrs. Jenkinson trailing behind.

Darcy stood in the silence of the entranceway for a moment, gathering calm and the fortitude necessary to deal with Lady Catherine. He would not lose his temper with the woman, no matter how she insulted him or his beloved wife, she was not worth the loss of control. He took a deep breath, squared his shoulders and walked briskly to the library, ready to do battle with the dragon.

Evelyn had lifted Georgiana's spirits successfully, and the young woman was dancing with Lord Rupert. Evelyn and Elizabeth kept a watchful eye on her, and were standing with Mrs. Gardiner who was enjoying the sight of her husband and Jane dancing.

"Oh, I so want to be with Darcy right now, I am so worried. Should I go to him?" Elizabeth said with a furrowed brow.

"No, Elizabeth. Let Darcy, the Matlocks, and Colonel Fitzwilliam see to Lady Catherine by themselves. You have enough to see to right now, you are the Mistress of this house, after all, and you have guests. You really should calm yourself, you know. It is not good to be upset or strained too greatly when one is in your condition," Mrs. Gardiner said in a lowered voice.

"My..condition? Whatever are you talking about, Aunt?" Elizabeth said hastily in an attempt to dissemble.

"Elizabeth, dearest, a woman always knows," Mrs. Gardiner said with a large smile. "But do not worry, if you have not told anyone as of yet, I will keep your secret safe."

Elizabeth sighed deeply and attempted to take her Aunt's suggestion of calming down. She did not want to become ill at this time with so many guests to see to, so she excused herself to take a stroll through the conservatory to clear her head.

"Poor Darcy and Elizabeth, as if they didn't have enough on their plates right now. I cannot believe the nerve of Lady Catherine! It is a good thing that I am not with them right now, I fear that I would throw something at that woman!" Evelyn said with a self-deprecating smile.

"I have never had the ... displeasure of meeting Lady Catherine before, but I have heard from Elizabeth the horrid treatment she received from that woman. Thankfully, Lord Matlock is the complete opposite of his sister, but that is the way of it sometimes with families. You would never be able to tell that Edward and Mrs. Bennet are siblings, for example, and then there are the differences with Elizabeth and her sisters," Mrs. Gardiner said.

Evelyn nodded her head. Although she had loved her brother William, she had not seen him for several years before he returned to Fort George on that fateful night, as he was studying at Oxford. William had grown and changed so much during his time in England that Evelyn had not known him well enough at that point in time to judge how alike or dissimilar they were. She had thought that they had all the time in the world to become reacquainted and to reform the bond they had as younger children.

"Yes, families may be like that. Here is another example; Darcy and his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam. Darcy is everything amiable and pleasant, and the Colonel takes joy in ridicule and pointing out one's faults," Evelyn said in clipped tones.

"I have never known the Colonel to ridicule anyone," Mrs. Gardiner began, "he is a most jovial and personable young man, that is true, perhaps you mistook his meaning or intention? If the Colonel were a person such as you described, would he not have found fault in Elizabeth or her family as Darcy initially did? Would he not have ridiculed Miss Bingley before she amended her ways? Yes, I think you might be deceived there. It would not be the first time that someone under this roof has found their impression of someone to be in error, you know," Mrs. Gardiner said with a sly smile and turned to greet her husband and niece as the dancing finished.

In the library, Lady Catherine was pacing in front of the fireplace and haranguing her brother and nephew. Darcy entered without knocking, it was his house after all, and went and stood before his Aunt with arms crossed and a very stern mien.

"Lady Catherine? May I inquire why, precisely, you felt it was necessary to come to my home, uninvited, on the eve of my sister's ball and then cause a scene in front of my guests? Have you no sense of propriety?"

"I am the girl's Aunt! Out of duty to your family and attention to propriety, I should have been invited to this ball. Really, Darcy, I am ashamed of you. That Miss Bennet has succeeded in ruining you, in making you forget the pride and sense of honor you should have in your noble family's name! The shades of Pemberley have become most foully polluted, and I..."

"That is quite enough, Lady Catherine. I warned you before never to insult my wife, Mrs. Darcy, again. And now you do so under her very roof," Darcy said coldly.

"Yes, that is certainly enough, sister. I cannot believe this of you! Our father and Anne would be turning in their graves to hear you speak so!" Lord Matlock cried in indignation.

"Anne?! It was our sister Anne's wish that Darcy marry my daughter! If my sister is turning in her grave it is because of the actions of her son and that upstart girl he married instead!" Lady Catherine yelled.

"What on earth are you talking about?" Lord Matlock asked, throwing his hands up. "Anne never meant for or wanted Darcy to marry his cousin! It was our sister's intention that when Darcy married, it would be to someone that he loved and would be as happy with as she was with George. And you know that full well, I was there when she said that very thing to you! And I know that your daughter has never wanted to marry Darcy either, she has told me so. You've ruined that poor girl by pressuring her and keeping her locked up!"

"How DARE you say such things to me! I would never do such a thing to Anne, she is MY daughter!"

"And as far as marrying an 'upstart girl', Aunt, she is my wife, I love her and she is the Mistress of Pemberley. The 'shades' of this estate are only polluted by your cruelty and total lack of compassion for anyone other than yourself," Darcy said, maintaining his composure. "I insist that you leave my home at once, and I will never see you again until Elizabeth and I receive a full apology."

"I have never been treated so in my life! Fine! You are lost, Fitzwilliam Darcy, and I will inform everyone I know of it. See if you can show your face in society then!" Lady Catherine said in rage.

"Catherine ... 'society' is here, at present, and I do not know of a single person in that crowd that would pay any attention to what you would have to say," Lord Matlock said, opening the door for Lady Catherine to leave.

Lady Catherine stormed out of the library, her face purple with rage. She stomped down the hall to the entranceway hall screaming for Anne at the top of her lungs.

Lady Matlock appeared with her niece at the upper landing, and held her back as the young woman instinctively began heading toward he mother.

"No, Catherine. You are not taking Anne with you," Lord Matlock said.

Lady Catherine whirled around, "What? You cannot hold my daughter! Anne, come here this instant! We are leaving this fallen house forever!"

"I said 'no', sister. Anne will be staying at Matlock with her Aunt and I. You have had that poor girl under your thumb for far too long, I should have stepped in years ago. You have ruined her health, her education, and nearly any chance for future happiness. I am taking her, and that is final!" Lord Matlock said with conviction. Lady Catherine looked as if she were about to explode and Lord Matlock interrupted her coming outburst with, "I am taking her or I will cut you off permanently, Catherine!"

Lady Catherine's transformation was amazing. She went from purple to stark white in a single moment. It was a miracle that she stayed on her feet, reeling from shock as she was. Finally, all she could say was a very feeble, "very well," and then she turned on her heel and left Pemberley, never to return.

Lord Matlock and Darcy took a simultaneous deep, steadying breath. Colonel Fitzwilliam, who had remained silent in the library, came up behind them with a glass of brandy in each hand and gave one each to his father and cousin.

"Well ... that was interesting, was it not?" the Colonel asked with a wry smile on his face.

Darcy looked at his cousin and glowered. "Interesting is not what I would call such a spectacle. I hope that Elizabeth and Georgiana are well and this did not ruin anything for them. I should go to them now, but I am curious about one thing. Uncle, what did you mean by cutting Lady Catherine off?"

"Exactly what it sounds like, Darcy. DeBourgh left everything to Anne, all the money, the estate, every trinket and piece of furniture in Rosings Park. Lady Catherine was left with the remainder of her dowry and a stipend for the running of the estate. It should have lasted, but Lady Catherine redecorated Rosings years ago and used all of the money up. I have been giving her an allowance ever since, since she cannot access the estate. It's all Anne's and will pass to her in it's entirety upon either her marriage or her thirtieth birthday, which is one of the reasons why Lady Catherine had been pushing for her to marry. Catherine thought the only way she could live in the extreme and wasteful way she had previously, was to leech off of her daughter's or son-in-law's fortune afterwards," Lord Matlock informed them.

Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam stood there aghast that Lady Catherine, Lord Matlock's and Lady Anne Darcy's sister, would be so cold and calculating. Especially as it involved her only child, the frail and delicate Anne. The idea of such use and manipulation was disgusting to them.

"I know ... I know ... I am fully ashamed to call that woman 'sister'. But, it is done and she shall bother you no more, Darcy. Well, you two young men hurry away to the ballroom. Mrs. Darcy and Georgiana must be anxious indeed, and there are enough pretty women here tonight to offer you sufficient distraction, Richard. Away with you, I will see to my wife and niece now. Poor Anne. I hope that we will be able to help the young woman. I think that she will improve greatly away from her mother," and with that, Lord Matlock ascended the stairs to help his wife with the frightened Anne. She had taken quite a shock at the scene, and nearly fainted when she saw her mother leave without her. What was she to do? Rosings was the only home she had ever known, and now she may never return! Lady Matlock had held her and smoothed her hair back, murmuring to her as if she were a child. It felt very nice. No one had ever really held her for fear that Anne would catch a cold from such close proximity to another person. Anne gripped her Aunt Fitzwilliam's arm, watching her Uncle come towards her with a friendly smile on his lined face.

"I am so very sorry that you had to witness any of that, and I am deeply sorry that you have been hurt by it. I am sure that you wish to return home with your mother, but I sincerely believe that it would not be good for you to do so at this time. I know how my sister can be, and I can fully imagine the rage she will be in for some time. It would not be good for your health to be around that much negativity, hence I am having you stay at Matlock with us for a while. You will have peace and quiet, and I dare say some sun and fresh air! Personally, I do not believe that you are anywhere close to being as ill as Lady Catherine has always made you out to be, and I intend to have you much better. Matlock is a lively place, with a lovely town nearby that your Aunt frequently visits. So, how does all of this sound to you? Would you like to come and stay with us?" Lord Matlock asked hopefully.

"I ... I would like to stay with you very much, Uncle Fitzwilliam. Very much indeed," Anne said with the first smile the couple had ever seen upon the frail woman's face.

Darcy and Richard had returned to the ballroom, Darcy smiling at his guests and giving assurances that all was well. Finally, the Colonel had nudged him and pointed out Elizabeth to him. Darcy walked briskly over to his beloved and grabbed her hand.

"Fitzwilliam! What has happened? Is everything all right?" Elizabeth asked with alarm.

"Everything is just fine, Dearest," he said smiling and brought her hand to his lips, "Lady Catherine is gone from Pemberley, for good let us hope," he said with finality. When Lizzy raised her eyebrows he continued, "Lady Catherine is never to darken our doorstep again and has returned to Rosings, although Anne has remained behind. Lord and Lady Matlock are taking her to stay with them,"

Elizabeth gasped in response. "Anne is staying with the Fitzwilliams, truly? How can this be? Lady Catherine would never leave her daughter behind!" She was further shocked by the description of the incident from Darcy, the Colonel giving his affirmation of Darcy's telling.

"It is true, Elizabeth. I am just so relieved that I will never have to visit Rosings for Easter next!" he said smiling.

"Oh, Colonel! Trust you to make a joke out of everything. This is all so strange! But...yes...let us pray this is the last of it," Elizabeth said in relief.

Evelyn had stood nearby, not close enough to listen in to the private, family conversation, but enough to lend a hand if needed. She was waved over by Darcy so she quickly stepped up.

"Is everything all right with you, Evie? Has Georgiana been kept busy?" Darcy asked concernedly.

"Oh yes, Miss Darcy is having a marvelous time. I did not let her think on Lady Catherine's visit, and she has been distracted by the dancing. As you can see, she is dancing with Lord Rupert again ... yes, again, Darcy. He is a fine young man so you need not scowl so. Other than that she has been talking with Mrs. Gardiner, Mrs. Bingley and Caroline," Evelyn informed the worried brother.

"Ah..er..that is well..," Darcy sighed. Then he shook himself, smiled, and held his arm out to Lizzy. "Shall we, Mrs. Darcy? I am remiss in my duties and have not danced yet with my lovely wife!"

"I shall be honored, Mr. Darcy," she laughed, taking her husband's proffered arm. As they were about to head to the dance floor, Darcy stopped and turned back to Evelyn and the Colonel.

"Richard, are you not going to ask this beautiful young woman to dance? If you do not, I shall have to call you out for stupidity!" Darcy said with a sly grin to Elizabeth.

"Ah ... yes ... I must have you dance," Lizzy chimed in.

Evelyn and Colonel Fitzwilliam glanced at each other askance. "Perhaps, later on, Colonel Fitzwilliam, for I find that I am in need of something to quench my thirst. Ah, Mrs. Gardiner! Would you care to take some punch with me?" Evelyn asked in desperation.

"Yes, that does sound like a good idea. I have not danced this much since I was your age, and it does make one quite parched," Mrs. Gardiner said, not noticing the gestures Elizabeth was making.

Evelyn breathed a faint sigh of relief for having evaded dancing with the Colonel, for now. Hopefully, she could escape having to do so for the entire night! There certainly were enough gentlemen here to keep her engaged until the ball ended. Evelyn and Mrs. Gardiner stood near the punch bowl, refreshing themselves and chatting with other ladies. Mrs. Gardiner had already made the acquaintance of several of the wives of Edward Gardiner's business contacts, and Lady Matlock had introduced her to a few friends of hers as well. After a moment, the dance was concluded and Evelyn saw Caroline and Lord Douglas make their way to the refreshment table. Caroline walked over to Evelyn first, a large smile evident on her face.

"So? How are you enjoying yourself so far, Caroline?" Evelyn asked in a soft voice, smiling at her friend.

"I am having the most wonderful time this evening. Lord Douglas is such a kind, witty, friendly man. I had never noticed what a fine gentleman he was before!"

"He seems to like you very well indeed, Caroline. He keeps looking over here," Evelyn said with a giggle.

"I like him very well also," Caroline said, looking away and blushing.

"I am very glad to hear that, my friend. Lord Douglas does seem to be a fine man, not that I have spoken to him much. But I have noticed that your brother has excellent taste in friends."

"Yes, he does, doesn't he? Speaking of which, another of Charles' and Lord Douglas' friends is here tonight. Would you like an introduction? I see you have not been dancing much. Do not fret, Evelyn, he is a good sort of man," Caroline said, smiling at Evelyn. She turned to Lord Douglas and spoke to him softly. Lord Douglas gave a nod, left, and returned to the group a short time afterwards, accompanied by a tall, fair-haired gentleman. He was sharply dressed and young seeming, with the ruddy complexion of an outdoorsman.

"Miss Westcott, may I introduce Sir Walter Adelmeir? Walter, this is Miss Evelyn Westcott, a friend of Miss Bingley's and a guest of the Darcys," Lord Douglas said. Evelyn curtsied to the gentleman and received a bow in return.

"So, you are a friend of Mrs. Darcy then?" asked Sir Adelmeir.

"I became acquainted with Mrs. Darcy after the wedding. I met Mr. Darcy in London a year ago, at Lord and Lady Malgreaves' ball," Evelyn said.

"Ah! The Malgreaves are a good family. Well, if you are not otherwise engaged, may I have the next two dances, Miss Westcott?" Sir Adelmeir asked hopefully.

"I am not engaged at present," Evelyn said, taking the proffered arm, and was escorted to the dance floor, followed by Caroline and Lord Douglas. Several people took notice of Evelyn and her partner, one of whom was silently enraged at the sight.

Evelyn had a wonderful time dancing with Sir Adelmeir. He was a graceful and superb dancer and cut quite the elegant figure. They took a break afterwards, and conversed about events and mutual acquaintances of Town. As the next set was about to begin, Colonel Fitzwilliam came up behind them and cleared his throat to gain their attention.

Evelyn turned at the sound, and became irritated when she recognized the source of the interruption. Sir Adelmeir blanched slightly, but recovered and gave a slight bow to the Colonel.

"Ah, Colonel Fitzwilliam. How do you do this evening?" Sir Adelmeir inquired.

"Very well, thank you Sir Adelmeir. Forgive me, but I have come to claim the dance owed to me from Miss Westcott here. Have you two known each other long? Did you meet her, perchance, at the home of Lady Veronica? She is the Countess' ward, you know."

Sir Adelmeir started slightly, and after acknowledging that he was not privy to that information, suddenly excused himself, leaving a very embarrassed and angry Evelyn behind. Just as she was about to storm away from the Colonel, Elizabeth and Darcy came over to them, again insisting on the two of them dancing the next.

Richard cleared his throat, made a perfect bow to Evelyn, and requested the honor of a dance. Evelyn was silently fuming that her friends would put her in a situation where she would dare not say 'no' again, so she mutely accepted the Colonel's hand and was escorted to the floor behind the Darcys. Elizabeth shot a glance to the orchestra's conductor and gave a nod. When all the dancers were on the floor, the band played a few notes, which caused several of the couples to gasp in delight, and caused Evelyn to nearly lose her countenance. It was to be a waltz.

Evelyn looked over at Darcy and Elizabeth. They both had such wide smiles on their faces, and looked into each other's eyes lovingly as Darcy stepped forth to place his arm around Lizzy's waist and take her hand in his. Evelyn began chewing on her lip unconsciously and looked back at the Colonel who was standing in front of her. His eyes locked with hers, and for some reason she found that she could not look away. He closed the distance between them in one step, gently took her hand in his, and placed his hand on her back, pulling her a bit closer, which caused her to slightly gasp.

He seemed impossibly large to her now, his tall, strong frame towering over hers, his face the only thing she could see. His eyes bored into hers with such intensity, and she could feel the heat coming from his body in waves. She was absolutely furious with the Colonel for embarrassing her in front of Sir Adelmeir, yet she felt weak, powerless, and had no idea why. Then the musicians began to play, and with gentle but firm guidance, Colonel Fitzwilliam led Evelyn around the dance floor, circling around other couples in time with the rhythmic music, causing Evelyn to feel as if she was flying.

All too soon for his taste the song had ended, and the Colonel, breaking his eyes away from Evelyn's finally, escorted her off the floor, bowed to her and excused himself. Evelyn stood there for a moment to collect herself, dizzy as she was from the dancing and the feelings she could not identify. Elizabeth was just about to ask Evelyn if she enjoyed the dance when Evelyn spun on her heel and walked quickly away. She nearly bowled over a few guests, but she did not see them. Her thoughts were in turmoil and she dearly needed to get away from the music, the crowd ... find somewhere quiet so that she could think!

Luckily, there was no one out on the balcony at this time. The dancing had begun only a short time before and there was brandy and wine for the guests to enjoy, so everyone remained where the entertainments were for now. Evelyn ran over to the stone railing and closed her eyes, attempting to catch her breath. She was so angry at the Colonel for affecting her so, he seemed to ridicule and embarrass her at every turn, and angry with herself for not being able to figure out why she allowed him to have such an effect on her. No one had ever made her that uneasy before! She never knew what to think or say around him, for his mere presence would send her mind into a tumult.

Elizabeth had followed Evelyn, but when she saw where she had gone, she decided on implementing part of her plan, and headed toward the cloakroom. Shortly thereafter, Lizzy found the Colonel making his way to the billiard room. "Colonel? I wonder if you could assist me with something?" She noticed how strained his expression was when he turned around.

"Of course, Mrs. Darcy, I would be happy to," he said, less brightly than his norm.

"Evelyn is on the balcony, and there is a chill in the air now so she bid me fetch her wrap for her. I would go but Georgiana needs me right now. As I cannot be in two places at once, would you be a dear and give Evie her wrap?" she asked brightly, slipping the wrap into the Colonel's arms. "Thank you, Colonel!" she said and turned away before he had a chance to respond.

Richard stood there holding the wrap, angrily staring after Elizabeth. Taking a deep breath, he draped the wrap over one arm and went off to run his errand, fuming over having to be near Evelyn again. The Colonel had silently raged inside when he saw Evelyn dancing with that worthless Sir Adelmeir, and acted as quickly as he had dared to separate them. Richard had nearly lost his resolve when Adelmeir was dancing with her, for the jealousy that had taken hold of his heart had nearly caused him to call out Adelmeir right then! And when he finally had his dance with Evelyn, she was so light in his arms, "Like a sprite should be..." he mused, then he suddenly realized that the scent of irises was clinging to him. "Get a hold of yourself man, be strong. You will conquer this...you must!" He reached the balcony and looked around after noticing that Evelyn was the only other person there. She was standing with her back to him, illuminated by the moonlight. He took a few steps closer to her and cleared his throat so that she would be aware of him.

Evelyn jumped in surprise and turned around. Her eyes fell on the Colonel in surprise and she stood there for a moment, attempting to discern his backlit features in the torchlight.

"Forgive me, Miss Westcott," the Colonel said and bowed, "I did not mean to startle you. Mrs. Darcy was detained and asked me to bring you your wrap," he said holding out his arm. Evelyn was too furious to speak or move, so the Colonel took another step towards her. "You should have your wrap, Miss Westcott, there is a chill in the air now."

"Are you going to laugh at me for being cold now, Colonel?" Evelyn snapped, irrational anger flooding her mind.

"What are you speaking of? Why would I laugh at you for being cold?"

"Oh, yes ... I am only the Countess' ward and I wouldn't know any better, for I am just a silly little common girl that came out in the cold and forgot her wrap." she said in a mocking voice.

"Whatever are you talking about?" he asked incredulously. "Mrs. Darcy only asked me to bring you your wrap! Ah ... yes ... Sir Adelmeir," the Colonel said, looking at his boots.

"Yes! Sir Adelmeir! Why did you have to say such things to him? What have I ever done to you to deserve your constant ridicule?" Evelyn asked heatedly, tears forming in her eyes. "Do you have such joy in embarrassing me that you call me out in front of a gentleman I am dancing with? Am I so low in your eyes that you must save your friends from dancing with such a poor, penniless orphan!?" Evelyn asked, trembling with rage and indignation.

Richard stood in shocked confusion. "How can she think this of me? Has she truly no idea how I feel about her? She thinks I ridicule and embarrass her....purposefully??" he though in astonishment.

"Miss Westcott! I did not intend to embarrass you, at all! I know of Sir Adelmeir and his reputation is not all that good, although he seems to keep that fact from becoming known to most of decent society. He has a tendency of spending most of his time and his family's money down at the regimental barracks, drinking heavily and losing his shirt in gambling with the soldiers! I have heard that he's already lost most of his inheritance, and is seeking to make it up by marrying into wealth. I was attempting to save you the trouble and pain that might have come from having him leave you in the lurch when he found out about your situation on his own!" the Colonel said heatedly, and silently admitting to himself "and I couldn't bear to see you smiling at him and being in his arms!"

Evelyn stood there, too shocked and angry to speak, shivering from more than the cold. The Colonel was close enough to see that Evelyn was trembling. The chivalry in him overriding his sense, he closed the gap between him to place the wrap about her shoulders. "And I would never seek to, or even want to ridicule or embarrass you, Miss Westcott, because I ... I" he began softly, then when he suddenly realized what he had been about to say and that he was standing a mere handbreadth away from Evelyn with his arms about her, he gasped and stiffened, which caused Evelyn to look up and meet his eyes. Colonel Fitzwilliam stood transfixed by those hazel orbs that sparkled with tears in the moonlight. The smell of irises and gardenias reached him and he breathed in deeply. Before he knew what he was about, he pulled on the wrap, bringing Evelyn closer to him and kissed her full, red lips.

Evelyn's mind went completely blank, so great was her shock and surprise when the Colonel touched his lips to hers. Then, for some reason quite unbeknownst to her, Evelyn closed her eyes and leaned into the kiss. All she was aware of then was the velvety softness of the Colonel's lips against her own, the feel of his wool coat under her fingers, his strong arms around her, and the feeling of floating. She drifted in the overwhelming sensations as if they were the warm, tropical currents of her youth.

Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam was nearly undone. Suddenly, that portion of his mind that remembered sense, duty, honor, and propriety screamed out, and he recovered his senses before they were completely swamped by desire. He grasped Evelyn's arms and pulled himself away from her, breathing in heavy gasps. He let go of her and backed away, watching her catch herself against the railing, chest heaving.

"My G*d! What have I done? Forgive me!," he cried, not able to meet her eyes, "...forgive me...", and he turned and ran from the balcony and down the steps leading to the lawn to be swallowed by the night.

Evelyn tried to catch her breath, her mind on fire. "What just happened? Colonel Fitzwilliam kissed me?! Why would he do such a thing? Did I give him the impression that I wanted him to? Did I lead him on in some way? He hates me! Ooh ... my knees feel so weak ... I'm shaking like a leaf..." Her mind was reeling from the sensations that had recently swept through her; from rage and anger at Lady Catherine, to concern for her friends, indignation at Colonel Fitzwilliam's cruel interruption and being forced to dance with him, the feeling of being helplessly trapped by his eyes and mere presence, and now the tempest of fire that swept through her body and mind. Her pulse rang in her ears, her lips burned, and against her will ... the blossoming desire for the Colonel's return, so that he would hold her in his strong arms and kiss her again.

Evelyn wiped her eyes and went inside the house, evading as many people as she could. When she reached the stairs she ran up them until she came to her chamber. Opening the door and nearly slamming it behind her, she ran over to her bed and flung herself upon it, utterly confused and crying bitterly.

After fleeing Evelyn in mortification and with his blood still boiling, Colonel Fitzwilliam stumbled in the dark until the cooler night air reached him, and the pain from tripping over a rock caused his head to clear. He leaned against the wall of the house for a moment, catching his breath. "Whatever did I do? How could I have kissed her like that?! She must be mortally offended! Oh G*d, would that I have never met her, never seen her tonight! Never seen her standing in the torchlight like that, never held her quivering in my arms! L*rd, her lips were like the sweetest wine ... I can still feel them! Still smell her! I must leave ... now! I could never face her again after tonight!" and with that, the Colonel raced around to the main entrance, and went upstairs as soon as possible. Without sending for a valet or footman, he hastily stuffed all of his belongings, what few he brought with him, into his saddlebags, and changed into traveling clothes. He sat down at the desk and scratched off a quick missive that he gave to the butler, with the instructions to hand it to either Darcy or the Fitzwilliams, on his way out to the stables. The grooms got Zeus ready, against protests that it was far too late to be out riding, and the Colonel was on his horse's back and away without a backwards glance. Zeus was surefooted and accustomed to riding at night, and had easy going on the well-tended roads under the light of the full moon. Richard guided the horse through Lambton, and sped through Derbyshire, wanting to put as much road between him and Pemberley that night as possible, silently weeping the entire way.

Continued In Next Section