Beginning, Section II

Chapter 1

Posted on Friday, 22 February 2008

Deep down she hadn't truly wanted to be there. There was a new book that her uncle had acquired for her that she was most anxious to read. It was a new author who had a very new style of writing, and she wanted to know how they differed from other authors. As she sat in the coach on the way to the ball, however, she knew that she would not have won the battle.

She had been just presented into London society. Her mother never would have forgiven her if she had not gone to the ball with her sister and aunt and uncle. She would never hear the end of it. She gave out a light sigh which caused her sister to look over at her. She only smiled comfortingly with an expression that read "I shall manage." Her sister went back to speaking with their aunt and uncle.

Dear Jane. She was such a kind and caring creature. She never questioned her younger sister's emotions. They were always so close, and both parties hoped to remain as such. She was always thinking of others above herself, and she never had a cross word for anyone. It was then that her aunt addressed the daydreaming girl.

"Lizzy, did you enjoy the last ball we attended?" Mrs. Gardiner asked her niece.

"I did aunt," Elizabeth replied with a small smile. "Indeed, the men of London are far more obliging than I had expected them to be."

Mrs. Gardiner returned her niece's smile and went back to conversing with Jane, leaving Elizabeth to her thoughts.

It was strange being out in society. Having men pay attentions to her made her feel uncomfortable. Then again, meeting strangers always did. She never knew if they knew her secret or not. The only people to know were herself and her father. No one else knew, and she hoped that no one else found out. She didn't want attention or anything remotely close to it. She liked her quiet life in Hertfordshire, and she didn't want that to change. That was one of the reasons she didn't like being out in society. Being out in society meant that she was ready to take on the role of wife to a man. Well, Elizabeth wasn't quite ready
for that. She still liked being the free-spirited, strong-headed, opinionated Elizabeth Bennet. She didn't want to have to succumb to a man just yet.

And certainly not to a man she did not love or respect. She could never marry a man she did not love. She had observed her parents marriage from an early age. She knew that her parents were not happy in their marriage, and she did not want that. Her father had always told her to only marry for love or a great respect. Never make his mistake. Elizabeth would not.

She sat silent for the rest of the carriage ride, content in her musings. Thinking about love and marriage made her think of her mother again. Mrs.
Bennet had been wailing for Jane to pay attentions to their neighbor, Lord Ashby, who had come to the neighborhood in the early spring. He didn't seem generally interested in Jane, but he had become rather well acquainted with their father. Mr. Bennet always saw Lord Johnathon Ashby as a respectable man whom he would not oppose to getting to know better.

As Elizabeth's thoughts ran on, the carriage came to a stop. She was handed out by her uncle and, walking behind her aunt and uncle and beside Jane, she followed the party into the London Assembly Hall.

This was the last thing he wanted. He did not want to go to the ball. He wanted to stay home and read the latest novel published by E.B. Anne. She was his favorite author by far. She wrote her novels with such emotion and depth. He had always wished deeply to write as she had been able to. He wanted to know about the female author. He wanted to know what she was like. The one thing he knew about her was this: E.B. Anne was not her Christian name. There were hints all over her novels about false identities and untrue names. Only a great studier of literature would have been able to acquire and understand those hints. He prided himself on having found it out.

He was alone on this night. His sister was far too young to be out in society, and his father was never in a mood to attend parties anymore. When the invitation came up, he couldn't say no, but he would not attend himself. He sent his son instead. So now here he was in the carriage on the way to a ball which would more than likely prove to be the same as every ball before that.

The amount of his fortune was well known throughout London society. Too well known, in his opinion. He always had mothers of ladies of the ton scheming to get him to marry their daughters. He had tried to fend them off since he had become eligible. Well, not anymore. No doubt they would still try it, of course. He knew that they would never relent in their advances on him. He sighed, knowing

that he would always be an object of prey, and also knowing that his sister was likely to fall to the same fate.

Poor Georgiana. She was still so innocent in the ways of the world. Being only ten years of age, he didn't expect much else. He just hoped that she would not always be so ignorant to the ways of the world. She would need to know that not everyone in the world was as kind as most of the people of their acquaintance.

The carriage came to a halt in front of the assembly hall. He could hear the coachmen scramble to get to the door in a hurry. He sighed again. Why did everyone insist on treating him like he was royalty? When the door was open, his footman said, "St. James Court, Mr. Darcy."

"Thank you Henry," Darcy said as he exited the carriage. He looked up at the assembly hall. Within the walls that made up the exterior lay many women who would no doubt want him to dance with them and pay his attentions to them. He would not, however. He would thoroughly disappoint the whole of the ton and even those beneath it.

He walked in and was greeted by one of his acquaintances. He made excuses for his father, as he always did, and they would remark back, as they always did. Tonight the reply was, "Poor George just hasn't been the same since his dear Anne died." Darcy just bowed at the indecency of the comment and walked in. He did not see anyone else that he knew right away, so he decided to stand in a corner and observe the people around him.

He was only able to have three dances worth of contemplation time when his acquaintance Sir Gregory Kentworth joined him.

"Enjoying yourself, Darcy?" he asked.

"Very much so Sir Gregory," Darcy lied. "And you? Are you enjoying yourself as well?"

"Yes, I daresay I am," Sir Gregory replied. Sir Gregory was definitely not one of Darcy's favorite acquaintances. He was a married man who took pleasure in dancing with young, unmarried women. Some times it went farther than dancing, but mostly Sir Gregory took delight in toying with the young ladies emotions. He would seem caring, kind, considerate, interested even. Then he would just cut off all acquaintance as quickly as he had struck it up. Darcy hoped that he would never have to introduce Georgiana to the man.

As Sir Gregory went on about...well whatever it was he was talking about, Darcy skimmed the room with his eyes to finish the observations he had started. Just as he was about to go back to listening to Sir Gregory talk, he saw her. She was across the room from him, and he couldn't help but notice how absolutely beautiful she was. Her eyes met his gaze, and instead of turning away as he knew he should have, he did not. He locked her eyes with his, and he couldn't help but noticed how absolutely intense they were. They had to be the finest eyes bestowed in the pretty face of a woman he had ever seen.

"Darcy?" Sir Gregory asked, snapping his companion back to reality. Darcy looked back to Sir Gregory. "Yes?" he replied.

Not distressed with the knowledge that his acquaintance had not been listening to him, Sir Gregory asked, "Who is it that seems to have captured your attention so blatantly?"

"No one of my acquaintance," Darcy admitted. "The party over yonder."

Sir Gregory glance over at the group Darcy had motioned to. "Ah, that is the Gardiners and two of their nieces. Shall I introduce you?"

Darcy looked at his companion with shock. He had not expected to be thrust into the company of the woman who had instantly captivated him. "Uh...I...if it would not trouble you, Sir Gregory."

"No trouble at all I assure you," Sir Gregory said as he motioned for the Gardiners to join them. They began to walk over along with their two nieces.

Those eyes. She couldn't stop thinking about those eyes. They had pierced right through her. She couldn't believe how much he had said with his eyes. So many words were portrayed, yet she couldn't remember a single one. He just stared at her, and he didn't look away. He intrigued her like no one else ever had. When his head tore back to the person next to him, she blushed a little and looked at the ground. The next thing she knew she was following her aunt and uncle over towards him.

"Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner," a man said pleasantly once they had come into the two men's company. "May I present Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley in Derbyshire? Mr. Darcy, this is Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner."

"It is a pleasure, Mr. Darcy," Mr. Gardiner said. "My two nieces, Miss Jane and Elizabeth Bennet. Jane, Elizabeth, this is Sir Gregory Kentworth."

"A pleasure to meet you both," Jane said with a smile. She and Elizabeth both respectively bowed to the gentlemen. Mrs. Gardiner then struck up a conversation with Mr. Darcy.

"You are of the Darcys at Pemberley?" she asked.

"I am," he replied.

"I spent all of my girlhood years in the village of Lambton in Derbyshire."

"But that is not five miles from Pemberley!" Darcy exclaimed with a civil and coincidental smile.

"Indeed sir."

"Have you been to Derbyshire recently?"

"No, not recently," Mrs. Gardiner admitted. "I do hope, however, that my husband and I may be able to travel north to Derbyshire in a few years. As of now our own children are too young to be left without us."

"I completely understand, madam," Darcy said. He didn't want to make small talk with these people, however civil and proper they seemed. All he wanted was to ask Miss Elizabeth to dance with him. Said young woman was making light conversation with Sir Gregory as was the rest of the party. Just then Elizabeth turned and joined their conversation. The three did not speak for very long before Mrs. Gardiner excused herself, in want of refreshment.

"Miss Elizabeth," Darcy said finally gaining his courage now that they were speaking to themselves. "Would you do me the honor of dancing the next set with me?"

"It would be my pleasure," she replied with a smile. Since the next set was due to start soon, Darcy offered his arm which she accepted and led her to the dance floor. They made leisurely talk as they danced and once the set had come to a finish they walked out of the assembly hall and took a stroll around the gardens in the back.

Chapter 2

Posted on Tuesday, 26 February 2008

Once they had made it outside, Elizabeth looked up at the sky and said, "The moon shines on us all in triumph, knowing it has played the game of hide and seek to the fullest, and only comes out at night to mock us all."

Darcy smiled as did Elizabeth. His reply was, "You have read E.B. Anne."

Elizabeth's head shot over in his direction and she looked at him thoughtfully. "Why do you say that?"

"I have read all of E.B. Anne's work," he admitted. "I know her style anywhere and that just so happens to be one of my favorite lines from her first novel."

Elizabeth smiled and blushed a little. "I am afraid you have found me out sir. I too have read all of her novels."

"Do you hold a high regard for literature?" Darcy asked hopefully.

"I do, sir," Elizabeth replied. "My father's library holds many books and I have read nearly all of them. Shakespeare is one of my favorites."

"One of mine as well, although my absolute favorite would have to be Byron."

"I see that we are alike in tastes," she said with a hint of a smile. "'Away with your fictions of flimsy romance, those tissues of falsehood which folly has wove! Give me the mild beam of the soul-binding glance, or the rapture which dwells on the first kiss of love.'"

He smiled and continued the poem, "'Ye rhymers, whose bosoms with phantasy glow, whose pastoral passions are made for the grove; from the blest inspirations your sonnets would flow, could you ever have tasted the first kiss of love!'"

"I would have to say that that poem is my particular favorite," Elizabeth said with a smile.

"I cannot say I am particularly fond of it," Darcy replied.

"Why is that, Mr. Darcy? What could be more passionate than writing of true love?"

"How can you write of what you know naught of?" Darcy asked. "How can Lord Byron write of true love when he has never experienced it himself? It is the very falsehood he is refuting."

"Maybe he has loved. How can you say that he has not? How do you know?"

"It is easy to read between the lines," Darcy answered. "He does not know what love is, only what he wishes for it to be."

"Well then Mr. Darcy, we must agree to disagree."

He chuckled a bit as they came into a grove in the gardens. She took a seat on a bench and he sat on the one opposite her. "Do you have any siblings other than Miss Jane?" Darcy asked.

"Three other sisters and no brothers," Elizabeth replied. "Jane is my elder by a year, and then Mary is a year under me. Two years under her is Katherine, however we call her Kitty, and finally two years under her is Lydia, the youngest."

"I cannot imagine having four siblings," Darcy said. "Though I suppose there can scarce be moment when there is not some liveliness."

"Indeed, sir you are correct. There is rare a dull moment to be had especially with the youngest so young and the two eldest just recently presented into society. Do you have any siblings, sir?"

"Just one sister. Georgiana is but 10 years old."

"That is a vast age difference," Elizabeth remarked. "Are you two very close or...forgive me. It is not my place to ask such a personal question."

"It does not matter to me. Yes my sister and I are very close even given the twelve year difference in age. You are close to your sister Miss Jane, I think."

"I am, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth replied.

They walked on in a content silence for a few moments before Darcy asked, "Are you a great lover of music, Miss Bennet?"

"I am," she answered.

"Do you play and sing?"

She replied in the affirmative then added, "I should warn you, however, that I play very ill indeed. I have not taken much time to practice. Does your sister play and sing?"

"Yes," Darcy answered. "Although she has only just begun. She has not yet mastered the skills, but she gets along very well."

"One cannot expect a girl of Miss Darcy's age to be perfect the first time she plays. I hope that she practices so that she may get better."

"She does, Miss Bennet. Practicing for her is a treat, and it is indeed a delight to see how much she is improving."

"You must be very proud of her," Elizabeth said with a smile, knowing already that he was indeed proud of his sister.

"I am," he replied. "Our mother died when Georgiana was very young, consequently, Georgiana does not remember her. I have tried to be the best brother to her to make up for it."

"You are of the right frame of mind; however nothing can make up for the loss of a mother."

"I know," he admitted.

"I am sorry," she added, condoling for his loss.

"It was years ago. It is the past. I thank you, however."

She nodded, noting that this was still a fresh topic for him, no matter how long ago his mother's death occurred. Also noting that a change of conversation was in order, Elizabeth said, "Do you often stay in London, Mr. Darcy?"

"Unfortunately yes," Darcy replied. "I much prefer it at Pemberley, but my father cannot manage to stay up there any longer than the summer months. He is still grieving over the loss of my mother. We stay in our townhouse on Grovesnor Square for the majority of the year."

She nodded her head in understanding and he said, "And you, Miss Bennet? Do you reside in London as well?"

"No," she replied. "My sister Jane and I are just visiting our aunt and Uncle Gardiner for my being presented into society. We reside at Longbourn in Hertfordshire."

"Are you fond of the countryside? Or do you prefer town?"

"I fear I will always prefer the countryside. What is town compared to rocks and mountains and the untamed beauty of the wilderness?"

"On that, Miss Bennet, we also agree. I know not of a county so beautiful as Derbyshire. Perhaps I shall have to visit your Hertfordshire sometime to see if my opinion still stands as such."

He gave her a smile which she returned. It was then that they heard the call for the last dance being announced. He offered his arm and requested her hand for the dances, and she gladly accepted. They walked back into the assembly hall and danced the final dance of the evening. When they had finished, Darcy bestowed an unseen kiss upon her hand and disappeared into the crowd.

Elizabeth was instantly smitten.

He could not remember a more enjoyable evening. Upon his return he was in a very pleasant mood. This was the first time he had gone to St. James' and returned with a smile.

Actually it was the first time he had gone anywhere and returned with a smile. His father pretended not to notice. Maybe he was just smug that for once he hadn't gotten bombarded with ladies who wished to dance with him. George recalled his first season of London when he did not have the women all around him. What a pleasant evening that had been indeed...

The following day, Georgiana reminded her brother of the shopping trip they had planned for the day. Darcy said he had not forgotten, and they left the house shortly after breakfast. As they walked the streets of London, Darcy found himself remembering the previous night and how enjoyable it had been with Miss Elizabeth. Just then he saw the subject of his reverie in a shop window across the street from their present position.

"There is the ribbon shop, brother," Georgiana said pointing to the shop that he had seen Elizabeth in. He smiled a bit as he led his sister across the street and into the shop. He pretended to be occupied with ribbons whilst his sister went to question the shop owner about his selection.

Just then the lady had been occupying his thoughts came barreling right into him. "Oh my!" she cried as she collected herself from her embarrassment. "Please, sir, allow me to apologize. I was not paying attention to where I was going."

"It is quite alright Miss Elizabeth," Darcy said with a smile. "I am come to know harm."

"Mr. Darcy!" she cried surprised. "Goodness, I am indeed deeply sorry sir. Had I known it was you, I assure you I would have taken better care to avoid colliding into you."

"As I have said, I am come to know harm. Are you alright?"

"I am well, thank you." She blushed at his smile and it was then she realized that her sister and aunt had joined her. "Mr. Darcy, you remember my sister Jane and my aunt Mrs. Gardiner from last night."

"Indeed," Darcy said politely as he bowed respectfully. Just then his sister came and joined them as well. "Georgiana, might I introduce Miss Jane and Elizabeth Bennet, and their aunt Mrs. Gardiner. Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth, Mrs. Gardiner, my sister Miss Georgiana."

"It is a pleasure to meet you Miss Darcy," Mrs. Gardiner said as the four women bowed to each other. They reached a breech in the conversation so Elizabeth said, "Have you long been in London Miss Darcy?"

"I arrived earlier this month," Georgiana said shyly. "I came with my brother and father. Do you live in London, Miss Elizabeth?"

"No, I do not," Elizabeth answered. "My sister and I reside north in Hertfordshire."

Again they went silent. This time it was Darcy who started a new topic. "Did you all enjoy yourselves at the ball last evening?" he asked the Bennets and their aunt.

"It was a very agreeable evening," Jane said. "Did you enjoy yourself as well, Mr. Darcy?"

"I did," he replied as he stole a glance at Elizabeth who looked down so he would not catch her blushing. After a few more moments of polite conversation, it was decided that the party would finish shopping together and then they would all dine at the Darcy townhouse later in the day. At luncheon the party separated to ready themselves before they would see each other again for dinner. Darcy would need to inform his father and the staff of their guests.

That evening Darcy waited anxiously for the Bennets and Gardiners to arrive. When he saw their carriage pull up it took all of his strength to not rush out and greet them. He walked at a quick pace, however to reach the drawing room where his father and sister were. The Darcys rose when their guests were announced and introductions were made.

"We are much honored to be here, Mr. Darcy," Mr. Gardiner said. George just smiled falsely at them and replied, "Well when both my son and daughter told me of a family they became acquainted with where there was not an ill word to describe them, I knew I could never pass up the opportunity to meet them."

The Gardiners blushed at the compliment, but Darcy looked at the ground ashamedly. He knew better. He knew his father was angry that he had to entertain guests. It only worsened because it was such short notice and he had never met the people before. Darcy looked back up at his father, but George would not make eye contact with him.

Soon the hosts and their guests were all seated in the dining room. They all made polite and ample conversation for the majority of their meal. George then addressed Elizabeth, "Miss Elizabeth, am I correct in assuming that you have just been presented to society this season?"

Elizabeth nodded and replied, "Yes."

"And how do you find London society?"

"I like it well enough," Elizabeth answered. "I find, however, that the country air suits me better."

"Ah yes, the country is a wonderful place to be," George said. "I only wish I could go there more often."

"Do you not have a home in Derbyshire?" Elizabeth asked. She blushed in embarrassment as she realized what she had just asked. George smiled sincerely, and when Darcy saw this, he nearly dropped his fork.

"I do," George replied. "Unfortunately business usually keeps me in town."

Elizabeth only nodded, wishing more than anything that she could just vanish. She contributed little to the rest of the conversation for fear that she might say something impertinent again. She mostly kept her eyes on her plate, but whenever she looked up she would see Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy staring at her intently. She would blush and return to her plate.

Chapter 3

Posted on Saturday, 1 March 2008

During the separation of the sexes, the two male Darcys and Mr. Gardiner spoke much of the sport of fishing as they took their port, while the ladies sat in the drawing room and spoke of themselves and droll stories of the past. Georgiana had a particularly funny one that her cousin Richard told her involving her brother and a rather wild toad.

"And he landed right in the pond!" Georgiana finished. The ladies all chuckled and just then the men entered. "Georgiana," George said, "I thought we said no embarrassing stories about your brother."

"Father, how do you know that I was speaking of Fitzwilliam?"

"Well what else could cause such laughter?" George replied humorously.

Darcy blushed and the ladies all laughed again as well as George and Mr. Gardiner. After a few minutes of good conversation, Georgiana went to Elizabeth and said, "Miss Elizabeth, would you like to come with me on a walk in the gardens? They are quite lovely at this time of night with the candles lit."

"Absolutely, of course," Elizabeth replied with a smile.

Georgiana looked at her brother and said, "Would you like to come along brother?"

Darcy smiled and said, "I believe I shall Georgiana." With that, the three set off.

As they walked along in the darkness with only the moon and the faint glow of the candles as their light, they made polite conversation, as though they had known each other for a rather long amount of time. They had not long been walking before Georgiana said, "Oh goodness. It's rather chilly, and I seem to have forgotten my shawl. I shall return in a moment." She walked off in the direction of the house, leaving Darcy and Elizabeth to sit on a bench and wait for her.

"Your family is wonderful Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth said. "Indeed I must admit that as much as I love my own family, I would not mind having this much quietness every once in a while."

Darcy smiled and said, "It does get rather dull, I must admit. But sometimes it is very pleasant, especially because I do not hold a high regard for much society."

"You did not seem to be adverse during your time at St. James' last night," Elizabeth said.

"Yes, well," Darcy admitted, "usually there is not such good company as that of the people I met last night."

Elizabeth blushed. "You should not speak so soon sir," she replied. "You have yet to meet my mother."

"Please believe me, Miss Elizabeth," Darcy stated with a smile, "your mother cannot be any worse than any of the other mothers I have met."

"Really?" Elizabeth asked disbelievingly. "How so?"

"Do not speak of this to anyone," Darcy said playfully, "for it is not at all honorable to speak ill of people, but I once ran into a mother who tried to have me compromise her daughter in order for me to be forced to marry her."

Elizabeth's eyes widened and she chuckled a bit, "Yes I must admit that my mother would never go that far, unfortunately she does not know when to hold her tongue, and it does get quite embarrassing."

"Ah, well, you have not yet met my aunt Catherine."

They both chuckled a bit and Darcy looked toward the house. "I wonder what is taking Georgiana so long."

"Perhaps she cannot find her shawl," Elizabeth suggested.

"Well hopefully she finds it soon if that is the case," Darcy replied. "She does love the gardens at night and it will soon be time for her to retire."

Elizabeth gave him a smile.

"What?" he asked looking at her curiously.

"It is very apparent how concerned you are for your sister's well-being," Elizabeth said. "Indeed Mr. Darcy, when it comes to your sister, I can read you easier than one of E.B. Anne's novels."

The two chuckled at that and he replied, "Well I hope I am not always that easily read."

"No indeed," Elizabeth said. "Like now," she added. "Right now with the moonlight and the shadows from the candles, and of course the obvious change of subject..." He gave a quiet chuckle. "You are not so easily read. I cannot tell if you are enjoying my company or just pretending."

"I assure you, Miss Elizabeth," he said sincerely. "I am greatly enjoying your company." She sensed the truth in his words and before she knew what was happening, he was slowly leaning towards her. She began to move nearer to him as well. Their lips were just about to touch when they heard Georgiana re-enter the gardens. They were able to move away from each other in time before Georgiana happened upon them again.

The hour was late, very late. He was having the dream again, this time it was back stronger than ever. He was tossing and turning about in his bed. Sweat dripped from his forehead. He hated this dream. He always knew what was to come in the end, but he never woke up before it happened. The faces were always blurry. He always knew who the people were, but he could never see their faces, save one.

"Anne!" he cried as he shot up in bed. His breathing was hard and heavy. He recollected himself before he swung his legs over the side of his bed and lifted himself up off of it. He wiped his face with his hands and took a few breathes. He could never see her, face her again. He could never return to Pemberley, but staying in London was out of the question as well. He sighed and tried to fall back asleep as a tear rolled down his cheek.

Darcy arose the next morning with thoughts of Elizabeth in his head. He had almost kissed her last night. Thank goodness Georgiana had been there to stop it. Darcy couldn't control himself around Elizabeth, and he didn't know why. He could never focus on anything as long as she was in the same region as him. Actually since he had met her, he couldn't get his mind off of her. They had met merely two days ago and he already was captivated by her. He didn't know how this woman could bewitch him so completely in a moment, but however she had done it, he was glad that she had.

He knew that she would soon have to return to Hertfordshire. Then he would stay away from her forever, and life would return to normal. He didn't want to think about life without Elizabeth, but he knew he would have to. Eventually her memory would fade, and if they were to meet sometime in the future, he wouldn't remember who she was, and she would not remember him either. They would see each other on the street and possibly recall one another's faces, but they would not remember names or any other memories, and that would be that. Darcy sighed as he thought of that day when he and Elizabeth would see each other again and not recall the night where they almost kissed. He hoped the day came sooner than expected.

And yet, he never wanted it to come.

But she was definitely beneath him. If he was going to run Pemberley and the townhouse some day, he had to think like a gentleman. He would no longer be able to do whatever he wanted. He would have to think about others and how his decisions would affect them. He could not be selfish.

He got out of bed and readied for the day before going down to breakfast.

Elizabeth's morning was very wonderful. She had gone for a lovely stroll in Hyde Park which was a distance, but she didn't mind it. It was refreshing despite the temperature. She had tried to focus on things besides the previous night, but it was hard to forget when the man you find yourself holding a regard for almost kisses you in the most romantic setting imaginable. Elizabeth was definitely falling hard and fast for this man.

But he would never marry her. These thoughts came into her head as well. He was very wealthy, and he could have any woman of upstanding fortune that he wanted. He could have titled women if he truly wanted. She could never truly compare to most of the women of his acquaintance.

But then why had he tried to kiss her? He had definitely wanted to, Elizabeth could see that much. Perhaps Georgiana's timing was for the best. She had only met the man two days previous. She didn't really know that much about him. She only knew that he loved E.B. Anne, he was a great studier of literature, he loved his sister, and his eyes were the most expressive Elizabeth had ever seen. That was nothing to base anything off of. Not even a friendship.

She sighed with that last thought running through her mind as she entered the house. She went to breakfast with her relatives and soon she was leaving the house to run some errands for her aunt. Jane would have come along, but Mr. Gardiner had much business to do, and Mrs. Gardiner was busy as well, so Jane had to stay and care for the children. Elizabeth walked the streets of London by herself.

She was about to enter the market when someone ran into her. This being the second time she ran into a man in two days, she let out a chuckle. "I apologize sir, I did not see you."

"The fault is mine, I assure you," the man said. "Are you alright?"

"I am come to no harm I promise you," she replied with a smile. The man was very handsome. He was dressed as a gentleman and he had the manners of one as well. "I am Elizabeth Bennet," she said boldly as she curtsied.

"George Wickham," the gentleman replied as he bowed as well. "Well Miss Bennet, as compensation for my having nearly knocked you over, may I accompany you to wherever you were going?"

"I assure you sir," Elizabeth answered, "that is not necessary."

"I insist," he said.

"I do not wish to trouble you," Elizabeth tried again. It was her test to all men. Those who gave up after only one attempt were never worth it anyway. It was rare that a gentleman pursued after she refuted twice.

"Please Miss Bennet, it is no trouble at all."

She smiled and assented. "I am on my way to the market, which, as you can see, is only across the street."

He grinned and gestured his hand in the direction of the market and asked, "Shall we?"

She began to walk in the direction he was pointing, and once they had come to their destination, he did not leave.

"Well Miss Bennet," Wickham said. "It is a splendid day considering the time of year, do you not agree?"

"Indeed it is," she agreed.

"Do you often walk around London?" he asked. "I noticed that you did not have a carriage."

"I prefer walking to carriages and horseback for short distances," she admitted.

"I could not agree with you more," he replied with a smile. "I have never much preferred the company of people who like to parade around in carriages."

She smiled as she picked out the things she needed and paid for them before setting them in her basket. When she was finished with everything, she told Mr. Wickham that she was going back to her aunt and uncle's home, and he was no longer needed in assisting her.

"You do not reside in London then?" he asked.

She shook her head negatively. "No, sir. I reside a little ways north in Hertfordshire. And you sir? Are you from London?"

"I confess that I am not," he replied with a smile. "I was born and raised in a tenant home on the grounds of Pemberley in Derbyshire."

"Really?" she asked. "I have just made acquaintance with the Darcy family but two days ago."

"And how do you find them?"

"They are very good people," she replied.

"That they are," Mr. Wickham said. "My late father was the steward for Mr. Darcy. Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy and I are the same age, and his father is generous enough to compensate for my attending Cambridge. Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy and I are both attending. I hope that one day I will be able to fully repay Mr. Darcy."

"That is very generous of him. If you and young Mr. Darcy are both attending Cambridge together, why are you not there now? If you don't mind my asking."

"Not at all," Wickham reassured her. "Young Mr. Darcy finished his studies early, and will return to Cambridge in the spring to take some extra courses. I have decided to take a year off before returning."

"I see," Elizabeth replied. "Well Mr. Wickham, I thank you for your good company and your wonderful conversation. Perhaps we will see each other again some day."

"Perhaps," he replied before taking her hand and bestowing a kiss upon it. She smiled politely at the gesture before walking back towards Gracechurch Street.

Chapter 4

Posted on Wednesday, 5 March 2008

When she arrived, her aunt thanked her for running the errands and said, "Lizzy, you have received a note from Grovesnor Square. I believe it is from one of the Darcys. I have placed it in your room."

"Thank you Aunt," Elizabeth said. She walked hurriedly to her room to read the note. She saw it placed upon her bed, and she instantly snatched it up. She read it quickly. It was very simply put.

Dear Miss Elizabeth,

Last night was such fun, and I hope that we may be able to do it again sometime. If you should wish it, I would very much like for you and your sister to join me for tea tomorrow afternoon. I have enclosed directions to my home in case you have forgotten. Please send your reply quickly.

Signed,

Georgiana Darcy

Elizabeth smiled and sought after her sister. When she found Jane she told her of Georgiana's offer, and when Jane answered with an affirmative reply, Elizabeth sought out the permission of her aunt and uncle who both readily obliged her. It was set that Elizabeth and Jane would arrive at the Darcy townhouse at 2 o'clock.

Since Grovesnor Square was quite a distance, Jane and Elizabeth were permitted to use the carriage. As they rode along, Elizabeth asked Jane what she thought of the Darcy family.

"They are delightful people," Jane said. "Mr. Darcy is so polite, and young Mr. Darcy is no different. And dear Miss Darcy, she is such a treasure."

"For once Jane, you and I have found a family in which all the members of it please us both," Elizabeth said with a chuckle. Jane smiled and blushed a bit and Elizabeth told her of the run in she had with the acquaintance of the Darcys.

"I believe that the Darcys have spread their good manners to those around them as well," Jane said with a smile.

"I believe they have," Elizabeth replied as they came to a stop. They exited the carriage and entered the house. When their winter attire had been removed and hung, they were received by Georgiana and Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy in the music room. Georgiana had been practicing on the pianoforte and she had just finished when the guests had arrived.

"You sounded very well, Miss Darcy," Elizabeth said.

"Thank you Miss Elizabeth," Georgiana said. The three ladies curtsied to each other and Darcy came over and bowed before taking his leave. The ladies sat and took their tea and Georgiana inquired Elizabeth about her first season out. Elizabeth told her about all the things she liked and all of the things that she could do without.

"When you first come out into London society," Elizabeth said, "all of the gentlemen who aren't acquainted with you or have never seen you before...well it is very obvious that it is your first season out. They all just...look
at you and I find it absolutely unnerving."

Except for when he looked at me, she thought.

"I remember that as well," Jane said.

"Yes but the men were staring at your beauty, not your awkwardness," Elizabeth replied with a smile.

"They were not," Jane blushed.

"See, you are blushing because you are being modest," Elizabeth said.

"She's right, Miss Bennet, you are being modest," Georgiana piped in.

Jane's blush deepened and the two other ladies laughed. All too soon, it was time for Elizabeth and Jane to depart. Darcy waited at the main entrance for them to take their leave when all of a sudden Georgiana said, "Oh I almost forgot. I have something for the two of you."

"Miss Darcy you really didn't need to..."

"I wanted to," Georgiana said with a smile. "Miss Bennet, would you please come with me to get them?"

"Of course," Jane obliged. That left Darcy alone with Elizabeth...again.

Having her in the house the entire afternoon and having seen her only once was pure torture for Darcy. So many times he wanted to go into the music room, pretending to have forgotten something, but he knew that that would be no excuse. His sister would have found him out in an instant.

"I came into the acquaintance of an old friend of yours, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth said.

"And who might that be?" Darcy asked genuinely interested.

"A Mr. George Wickham. He said he grew up with you at Pemberley when his late father was your father's steward."

"Ah yes, Mr. Wickham," Darcy said. "He and I are attending Cambridge together."

"Yes, he mentioned that," Elizabeth said.

"What else did he mention?" Darcy asked cautiously.

"Just that you were done with your studies and were planning on taking more in the spring. He also said that he was taking a year off of his studies, and that your father was kind enough to pay for his tuition to the school."

"His information is all accurate," Darcy said with a smile, thankful that for once his old companion told the truth. "Hopefully Mr. Wickham is taking the year off to decide what he would like to do with his life. He has many...interests, and therefore he is undecided as to what he would like to do."

"I see," Elizabeth said with a smile.

"I am actually fairly grateful to the man for something," Darcy added. The word ‘grateful' burned in his throat as he said it.

"And what is that?"

"It was he who introduced me to E.B. Anne," he replied with a smile. Elizabeth chuckled a bit and asked, "Did he accumulate the first copy for you?"

"No actually we were both in a book store around the time her first novel came out. He didn't want to be there, but I convinced him to go there for a little while as I picked out a few books to purchase. Then I said that we would go to my father's club for a little while. He was teasing me about liking books over actual fun, and he picked a book off of the shelf and tossed it at me gently as he was taunting me. It just so happened to be E.B. Anne's first novel. I was interested so I read it, and I was captivated ever since."

Elizabeth smiled and said, "Well then it was a perfect time to be teased, was it not?"

He laughed and said, "It was indeed." He hated talking about Wickham so much, so he moved to a different topic. "When do you return to Hertfordshire?"

"Not for another two months or so," Elizabeth said. "My mother wishes for Jane and I to stay in London for as long as possible."

"Ah yes, you spoke of your mother the last time we met."

"I did," Elizabeth replied in the affirmative. "She will be disappointed if Jane and I do not come home engaged."

Darcy laughed a bit even knowing full well that Elizabeth was serious. "I have met many mothers who are like yours."

"With one big difference," Elizabeth said.

"And what is that?"

"My mother is only the way she is because she is worried for her family, not because she wants her daughters to become as rich as possible."

"I don't think I understand," Darcy said.

"My father's estate, Longbourn, is entailed away from the female line. Upon my father's death, the estate will go to a cousin of my father's. He will then throw my mother and myself and my sisters out into the street, and we will be destitute. My mother just wants to see her children married and well off so that we do not have to live like that."

"Ah yes, I see," Darcy said with a comforting smile. "The thought of being tossed out into the street doesn't seem to scare you much. Why is that?"

"The chances of me making a good match or even a match at all are very small, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth said. "I am prepared for the worst."

The passion in her voice and looks was far too much for him to overcome. He came in closer, much closer than propriety allowed. He cradled her head in one hand and placed the other hand on the small of her back. Their bodies melted together and he placed a kiss upon her lips. It was not very long, and after they parted they simply stared into one another's eyes. Soon they were leaning in again. The second kiss was a bit longer, and a bit deeper, but it was cut short by the footsteps of Georgiana and Jane on the stairs. They parted and made it look like nothing had happened but small conversation.

"Here you are Miss Elizabeth," Georgiana said handing her a small bottle of scented water. "Yours is lilac and Miss Bennet's is rose."

"Thank you Miss Darcy," Elizabeth said with a smile. "But wherever did you get roses and lilacs at this time of year?"

"I have a talent for growing flowers in my room in the winter," Georgiana replied. "Do you like it?"

"Very much," Elizabeth replied. "Lilacs are one of my favorites."

"Good," Georgiana said with a happy smile. Darcy said his goodbyes, and Georgiana walked her friends out to their carriage. Before they got in, Georgiana said, "Miss Elizabeth I know that I did not truly need Miss Jane to come with me to simply get two bottles of perfume."

"I admit that I had wondered why she went with you," Elizabeth admitted.

"Forgive me, but I needed your sister's advice. You see, in a week's time I will be hosting a surprise ball for my brother's twenty second birthday. I showed her some of the plans that I have, and I assumed that she had been to more balls and assemblies that she might have a better opinion. Was it wrong of me?"

"Not at all," Elizabeth said with a reassuring smile. "I probably would not know anyway. Are you planning the party all by yourself?"

"Heavens no," Georgiana said. "I am only ten! No, my housekeeper here and my housekeeper from Pemberley are both helping me with everything. I am very grateful to them. Here is the formal invitation for you and your aunt and uncle. I hope you can come."

"We shall be happy to if we have nothing else planned," Elizabeth said. With that the carriage pulled away.

A few days later Elizabeth gave a reply to Georgiana's invitation stating that Mrs. Gardiner was not feeling well, so she would not be able to attend, and Mr. Gardiner and Jane had already had a prior engagement at an assembly, so it would only be Elizabeth attending. After receiving the note, Georgiana changed the seating so that Elizabeth would be placed next to her instead of some strangers that she did not know.

In honor of the occasion, Mrs. Gardiner had purchased a new ball gown for Elizabeth that went along with the fashions so that her niece would not feel out of place. When Elizabeth went and picked up the dress the day before the ball, she was amazed with how elegant and wonderful it was. She thanked her
aunt over and over again, and she looked absolutely stunning for the ball. She was very excited.

When she arrived she was received by all three Darcys who all welcomed her warmly.

"Thank you for coming, Miss Elizabeth," Georgiana said. "I was sorry to hear about your aunt, but I was happy to learn that no one else became unwell."

"Thank you Miss Darcy, and please, starting tonight call me Elizabeth. I think we have gone past formality now," Elizabeth said with a smile.

"And you must call me Georgiana."

Elizabeth moved on to the next host which happened to be Mr. Darcy.

"Wonderful to see you again Miss Bennet," George said bowing to his guest.

"A pleasure, Mr. Darcy," she replied with a curtsy. She moved on to Mr. Darcy and said, "Happy Birthday Mr. Darcy."

"Thank you Miss Bennet," Darcy said as he took her hand and bowed over it which received a smile from the recipient. Mr. Darcy and Georgiana were busy greeting the next guests and did not notice. "You look stunning," he whispered as she walked past. A blush crept on her face as she entered the main room. She saw many people about, none of whom she knew. She was very concerned now. The only people she knew here were the Darcys and she was very nervous about meeting new people of high rank, especially with her being quiet low in social rank even as a gentleman's daughter.

Just then a man who seemed a few years older than Master Darcy approached her. "Hello madam," he said. "I do not believe that we have had the pleasure of meeting. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Richard Fitzwilliam of the Fitzwilliams in Matlock. I am Mr. George Darcy's nephew."

"A pleasure to meet you sir," she said with a curtsey. "My name is Miss Elizabeth Bennet of the Bennets in Hertfordshire. I am a recent acquaintance of the Darcys."

Just then a few other people came up behind the gentleman and he said, "Ah, Miss Bennet, allow me to introduce my father and mother, Lord and Lady Matlock. This is Miss Elizabeth Bennet a recent acquaintance of the Darcy's."

"A pleasure Miss Bennet," Lady Matlock said as she and her husband greeted the young girl. "You say you are a recent acquaintance of my brother's and niece and nephew. Forgive my asking, but how long have you known the family?"

"A little more than a week ma'am," Elizabeth replied.

Lady Matlock smiled, hardly the reaction Elizabeth was expecting. "I suppose you are rather close to Georgiana, yes?"

Elizabeth smiled and said, "Indeed ma'am. She is a dear girl, and a wonderful friend."

The men took their leave of the two women, leaving them to talk. "And are you just out in society? You look rather young."

"Yes, I am not yet sixteen and this is my first season."

"And how does London suit you?"

"Very well, thank you."

"But you prefer the country do you not?"

Elizabeth blushed and said, "It would seem that tonight I am very easily read."

Lady Matlock chuckled and said, "I have the same look in my eye when I am in town and longing for the country."

Elizabeth chuckled as well, and soon the two were joined by Georgiana.

"I see that you have already met my aunt, Elizabeth," she said with a smile.

"Indeed," Lady Matlock said. "Georgiana, the party is lovely, you did a wonderful job."

"I had some help from Mrs. Reynolds and Mrs. Woods," Georgiana said. "And of course from Elizabeth's sister Miss Jane."

Lady Matlock smiled at the informality with which her niece spoke of to Elizabeth. "Is your sister here Miss Bennet?" she asked.

"Unfortunately no," Elizabeth said. "She and my uncle had a prior engagement to attend to."

"And your aunt? Is she not here?"

"My aunt is regrettably ill as of late, but she sends her best to the family."

"Please send my condolences and best wishes for a speedy recovery," Georgiana said.

"I will."

Just then it was announced that the first dance of the evening was about to begin.

"I suppose I should find my husband," Lady Matlock said. Georgiana added, "And I my father. He said the only way I can dance tonight is if it is either with him or my brother. He was the first to claim the first set."

She smiled and went off to the dance floor, Elizabeth was about to turn around when she heard a voice behind her say, "I guess that that leaves you and me."

A small grin appeared on her face and she turned to see Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy smiling at her. "Would you do me the honor of dancing the first two with me, Miss Bennet?"

"How can I refuse the guest of honor?" Elizabeth asked with a smile. He led her to the dance floor with a smile, and after the first set, young Mr. Darcy danced with his sister, and Elizabeth danced with his cousin. After the second set, Elizabeth mainly stayed with Georgiana who introduced her friend to many other relatives and acquaintances. When they were all seated for dinner, Elizabeth was relieved to find that she was seated in between Georgiana and Lady Matlock. Georgiana mainly stayed in conversation with her brother and father, and Elizabeth conversed with Lady and Lord Matlock.

Chapter 5

Posted on Friday, 14 March 2008

"So Miss Bennet, you say you are from Hertfordshire," Lord Matlock began. "That is where your family's estate is, yes?"

"Yes," Elizabeth replied. "I live at Longbourn estate, though it is not very big, nor so grand as this, but it is home, and I love it all the same."

"That is the attitude that more people need," Lady Matlock said. "Everything is about possession these days, who owns what and where and how much it cost. It's all so very tiring."

"I agree," Lord Matlock said. "Please forgive the personal question, but Miss Bennet, are you happy with your life?"

"Indeed I am," Elizabeth said.

"You see? And that is all that matters."

Elizabeth smiled and said, "Forgive me, but I must say that I have never met people of high rank with such wonderful manners before. It is as if the entirety of the Darcy family and those connected to it are nothing but pleasing."

"That is because you have not met my sister-in-law," Lady Matlock said.

"Sophia," Lord Matlock said disapprovingly.

"It's true."

"Are you speaking of Master Darcy's Aunt Catherine?" Elizabeth asked.

Lady Matlock nodded. "He has mentioned her," Elizabeth added. Lady Matlock smiled and said, "Knowing Darcy, what he said was not a compliment."

"Indeed it was not," Elizabeth said blushing and smiling. "He said that she does not know when to hold her tongue."

"That would be an understatement," Lady Matlock muttered.

"Sophia, please," Lord Matlock said. Lady Matlock apologized, and dinner went on. Elizabeth was very pleased with the company of Lord and Lady Matlock, and she was glad to know them. During the final course, Elizabeth received a discreet note on her plate that no one noticed. It simply said:

Meet me in the gardens after supper. F.D.

There was no mistaking who it was. Elizabeth stole a small glance at young Mr. Darcy who looked at her as well and gave a single nod. Elizabeth looked down at the ground in a small bow, showing that she would be there as soon as she could. Then she turned back to her companions and once again got back into the amusing conversation they were sharing.

A few minutes after dinner was finished, Elizabeth was able to sneak away from the party and go into the gardens. She found Darcy there hidden in the shadows of the hedges. He put a finger to his lips and motioned for her to follow him. He took her hand and silently led her to a back door where they slipped inside the house once again. They ascended the stairs noiselessly, and it was not until they were in the safety of the music room on the top floor that he spoke.

"Please," he said as he neared her. He tucked a stray hair behind her ear and said, "please tell me that I was not imagining things last week when you...when we kissed. Please tell me that it was real, and that you returned them."

"It was," she said with a reassuring smile. "I did."

He smiled and cupped her face in his hands. He lowered his lips and connected them to hers. Their embrace was warm and passionate, and Elizabeth felt an odd coldness when they parted. It was not for long however, and soon her lips were on his.

It was never a question of can or can't for him. It was always a question of will or won't. And he did. He would. He shouldn't, but he would. As he lay in bed that night thinking about her kiss, he couldn't help but smile. He had never felt as strongly about anyone before. Then Elizabeth came along. His Elizabeth. He smiled as the words came into his head. His Elizabeth.

Elizabeth had never felt such emotion before. She had never been kissed before, but she knew that no man would ever match in intensity with which her beloved Fitzwilliam kissed her. She understood why he had wanted to meet in private. His family might like her as a friend, a mutual acquaintance, but would they truly accept it if they were to marry? Probably not.

Where did that come from? He had said nothing of marriage, and Elizabeth was not ready for it anyway. You are jumping too far ahead, Elizabeth scolded herself. She sighed and stared up at the black ceiling. He was so perfect. Almost too perfect, but not quite there yet. She still didn't know who he really was, but she would find out in the time that she was in London.

At least...she hoped she did.

The two did not see each other again for the next few days, and it was driving Fitzwilliam Darcy crazy. He had to see her again. He was beginning to get agitated, and he wasn't sure how much longer he could stand it. Finally after another week had passed, he sent her a note that was supposed to be as discreet as possible. It said to meet him at a park near Gracechurch Street at midnight that night.

As Elizabeth snuck out of her house, she couldn't believe what a thrill the thought of seeing him again brought her. She walked the short distance to the park and immediately started searching for him. She couldn't see his carriage, but surely he had brought one. It was a great distance to the park from Grovesnor Square. Then she saw him. When she did she smiled gleefully, and he smiled as well. They embraced when they were close enough to touch, and before they parted he placed a small kiss on her lips.

"I am sorry that we had to do this," Darcy said. "But I had to see you again. I've been going mad without you Elizabeth."

"Do not be sorry for wanting to see me," Elizabeth said as she blushed. "I too have longed to see you again Fitzwilliam." She placed a hand on his cheek, and he took it in his own hands to place a kiss on her palm. For the rest of the night they sat on the park bench and talked with a few stolen kisses in between.

This happened every night for a fortnight. They would meet in the park and talk until the early hours in the morning, just getting to know one another. They were falling in deeper and deeper each time. After their fourteenth secret rendezvous, George addressed his son in private after breakfast.

"I know what you've been up to," he said.

Darcy just looked at his father curiously. "What do you speak of? I have been up to nothing."

"Ah yes, that is why one of my drivers is on the verge of leaving due to the fact that he believes he is being overworked because my son makes him work twenty-four hours," George said. "That is why you have been tired as well because you are up to nothing."

Darcy looked at his father. "I have had much on my mind lately, and I have been preferring midnight strolls to clear it. That is all."

"I know you like her, Fitzwilliam," George said, and Darcy just stared at his father. He hadn't used his full name since he was a child. "I know that you are on your way to falling in love with her if you have already not. You must sever your acquaintance with Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Tell her the truth."

Darcy looked at the floor and then murmured, "Every time I see her, I try to tell her. I greet her with the intention of telling her, and I never do. I can't."

"Then I will."

"No!" Darcy said adamantly. "No, I will do it somehow."

That night Darcy once again took a carriage out to the park, but he used a different driver that night. When he arrived, Elizabeth was already there on their regular park bench. But she was crying. He rushed over to her, and placed a hand on hers.

"Dearest Elizabeth, what is the matter?" he asked.

"My father..." she said. She tried to continue but could not.

"Is he alright? Is he ill?"

She shook her head. "A few months ago, Lord Johnathon Ashby leased a nearby estate. My father...has consented for me to marry Lord Ashby."

Darcy paled. She continued. "We are to wed in a fortnight, and the day after our marriage...we are to sail to America to live on his tobacco plantation in Virginia."

"No," Darcy said as he stood up. "America? Good God." He couldn't believe this. She was leaving him. She was going overseas. After her wedding...he would never see her again.

A single tear fell down her cheek. He wiped it away and just held her for the rest of the night. When they parted in the early hours of the morning, Darcy had made a resolve. Since they would never see each other again after her marriage, he would not tell her. She didn't need to know, and she never would.

As Darcy rode back to his London home in his carriage, he cried. He just let the tears fall, but he did not dare to let a sound escape his lips. He knew that after she had left London he would not be able to see her again ever. If their paths had ever crossed he would not be able to acknowledge her. But that would have been better than never seeing her again.

As he entered the house, his father was waiting for him in the entrance hall. When he saw him, Darcy tried to wipe his face dry which only caused it to become redder than it already was. He tried to choke out a "Good evening father" but he couldn't speak. He was still upset and shocked by what Elizabeth had to say. His father spoke instead.

"Good evening son," he said. Darcy just stared up at him. "I trust that the reason you are so upset is because you have told Elizabeth and she no longer favors you?" Darcy gave a curious look at his father and shook his head.

"Did she find out on her own?" George asked. Again Darcy shook his head negatively. "Well then why are you so upset?"

Darcy swallowed thickly and said, "Elizabeth is to marry in a fortnight."

George scoffed. "That is nothing for you to be upset about Fitzwilliam. You will still pursue her."

"Perhaps I would if she was not journeying to America the day after her wedding."

George's eyes widened a bit. He didn't know how to respond to that. He wanted to say he was sorry, but he knew that her leaving was for the best. He would greatly miss her, however. He stayed silent instead.

"Goodnight father," Darcy said before walking up the stairs past his father and to his room. George sighed and returned to his room as well. Before he returned to bed though, he composed a letter, and he had it sent early the next morning.

Dear Miss Elizabeth Bennet,

My son has informed me of your upcoming marriage to Lord Ashby. I have met the man myself, and I can safely say that he is truly a gentleman. I congratulate you.

I must confess that your engagement is not the reason for this letter. I know of your little interludes with my son. I know that you and he have been meeting secretly in a park near your current residence in Cheapside. I thought it only fair to let you know.

In May earlier this year, my son married his cousin Anne de Bourgh. My son intended to tell you, but unfortunately he never found the proper way.

With your impending nuptials I did not think it mattered whether or not you knew. I believed however that you would prefer to know that nothing could have come of your relationship with my son. I thank you for your time in reading my letter and becoming acquainted with myself and my daughter whom considers you her dearest friend. Lord Matlock and his wife both said that they were more than pleased with you. They will be sad to know that you are going overseas.

You have even had a positive affect on my son. Before you met him, he had never known what it was to love another person who was not a relation. When he married Anne, I thought that all hopes of him loving a woman as I loved his dear mother were lost. So I thank you Miss Bennet, and I hope that you and Lord Ashby are very happy together. Signed,

George Darcy

When Elizabeth read the part of the letter where it stated that her beloved Fitzwilliam was married, she stood up from the breakfast table with tears in her eyes. She left the room and went to her bedroom where she continued to read the letter in silence. When she was finished she let herself fall to the floor with her back against the door. Sobs wracked her body, and she didn't try to control them. She felt a soft knock on her door followed by Jane saying, "Lizzy? Are you alright?"

Elizabeth collected herself a bit before quietly replying, "Please Jane, just leave me be."

From outside the room Jane frowned, but Elizabeth soon heard the sound of her footsteps walking away. After composing herself a bit, she sat at her desk to write a letter.

Continued In Next Section