Previous Section, Section VI, Next Section
Elizabeth slowly climbed the stairs, sliding her hand along the rail as she ascended. Love? she mused. Is this love ... or merely attraction? She paused at the top of the staircase. Do I love him? Her pulse began racing. Clutching the banister she steadied herself, feeling a rush of panic pervade her body. Inhaling deeply, she let go of the railing and hurried to her room.
With the door closed behind her she released the breath she held and dropped into the chair beside the window. The sky was becoming dark - thick clouds gathering on the horizon. Elizabeth stared at the trees across the yard as the wind blew through their branches causing them to bend and sway, keeping rhythm with the airy dance. Rising from her seat she opened the casement - a cool breeze enveloped her, caressing her face as she sank back down into the soft cushion of the chair. She took a deep breath; the smell of rain was heavy in the air.
As she sat looking out the window her thoughts centered on William. No doubt she had missed seeing him while she was in London. She had found herself thinking of him quite frequently, and even unexpectedly. While walking around the city she tried to imagine what he had thought when he viewed the sights she was seeing and even wondered if he had stood in the same places where she was standing. She knew it was silly and quickly dismissed these thoughts as childishness, but when he showed up at her hotel room looking so incredibly handsome and stammering through his explanation like a tongue tied teenager, Elizabeth felt a warmth fill her entire being. But was it the long, slow burning warmth of deep, abiding love? Or just spontaneous combustion ignited by a fire of passion, one that would burn quickly leaving her ashes in its wake?
Is it love? Or attraction? Sighing, she brought up her knees, wrapping her arms tightly around them. I don't know...
"Lizzy!" Jane exclaimed when she heard her sister's voice over the phone. "How are you?"
"Fine, I'm fine." Elizabeth smiled upon hearing Jane's greeting - only Jane and her father had ever called her Lizzy, and out of the many derivatives of her name she had liked it the least, that is until her father passed away and the name became more dear to her. "How about you? How have you been?"
"I've been really well, although I've missed talking with you."
"I know." Elizabeth sighed, thinking about the many conversations she and Jane had shared. Jane and Elizabeth had always been close, at times seemingly inseparable, and even after they both married and Elizabeth eventually moved away to New England with her little family the sisters had remained in close contact. They called each other frequently and visited several times throughout the year, and when Jonas died Jane had stayed with Elizabeth for nearly a month before Elizabeth convinced her that she was all right and didn't need constant companionship. "I've missed you too."
"So, how's England? Cold, wet and dull?"
Elizabeth chuckled as she watched the raindrops beat against the window panes. "Yes, it's cold and wet, but I wouldn't say dull."
"Really? I couldn't live in a place that's so wet, but you've always loved the rain as much as you love the sunshine."
"I do enjoy the rain."
"Is that why you're still there? Or is there something else that's keeping you?"
Sitting momentarily silent, Elizabeth pondered the reasons she was still in England. "Oh, I don't know, I just don't feel ready to go back yet."
"What do you mean, feel ready? Are you sure you're okay?"
"Yes ... I just ... I've thought a lot about going back, in fact, just yesterday I was thinking about it."
"So why don't you come home, Lizzy?"
Leaning back in her chair, Elizabeth looked out the window into the darkness. On a clear night she could see the tree lined road that headed east toward Pemberley, but on this night the sky was moonless and pitch black and she couldn't see anything past the glass panes that stood between her and the falling rain. "Right now I don't want to go back home." As she spoke the words Elizabeth felt more certain about her plans to stay at Cresthaven than she ever had, and coming out and telling Jane seemed to strengthen her confidence in her decision. "I'm going to stay here in Derbyshire indefinitely."
"Indefinitely?"
Elizabeth could hear her sister draw in a deep breath and waited for what else she might say.
"As long as you're happy there," Jane finally said in the calm, reassuring voice that Elizabeth loved and always longed to hear whenever she opened her heart to her sister.
"I am." Elizabeth felt her happiness swell within her and was glad she had decided to call Jane as Peter had urged her. Peter had called her when he arrived safely home and she had hung up the phone with him less than a minute before she dialed Jane's number, not really certain what she would tell her sister, but knowing that Jane had always been a voice of reason and would help her to sort out whatever happened to be weighing on her mind.
For the next hour the two sisters talked just like they had in the past, and when Elizabeth set the receiver down she smiled deeply, putting all thoughts of returning to America out of her mind.
Rain was still falling the next morning. Elizabeth stood at the bay window in the kitchen nook staring out toward the long driveway.
"Are you expecting someone, dear?" Bessie asked while mixing buttermilk into her bowl. She had been watching Elizabeth for the past several minutes, wondering what could be holding her attention for so long.
Without breaking her stare Elizabeth shook her head. "No, just watching the rain come down."
Bessie shrugged and continued her work preparing scones. "It certainly is quiet without Master Peter here."
Elizabeth turned around, nodding her head. "It is."
"Do you think he'll bring his young lady to visit with him next time?"
"Alicia?" Elizabeth took a seat at the kitchen table, positioning herself to still see out the window. "I don't know, I suppose that depends on when he comes for another visit."
"He certainly does fancy her - staying up to the wee morning hours talking."
"Yes, he does, more than any other girl he's known."
"She must be the one."
Knitting her brow, Elizabeth cast a skeptical look at Bessie. "The one?"
"Yes, Peter's true love, the one he's been waiting for." Bessie turned the dough out onto the board and began kneading it.
"So, you believe that a person has only one true love."
"Aye, that's why when you find each other everything feels so right."
"What if you don't find your one true love? Does that mean you'll never love?"
"Not at all, everyone has a true love, but they don't always find him or her...but then again..." Bessie stopped kneading and thought for a moment. "Oh, hang it! It isn't that way at all." Rolling her eyes back, Bessie contorted her face into a comical grimace. "I've been reading too many mawkish love tales."
Elizabeth's face brightened as she laughed aloud. "I think you have, and I'm curious as to how Ralph feels about that."
Bessie chuckled. "He's more sentimental than you might think."
The sound of a car pulling up the driveway drew Elizabeth's attention. She looked to see who it might be. "Charlotte's here." Quickly standing, Elizabeth glanced at the kitchen clock. "I wonder what she's up to this early in the day," she mumbled softly as she crossed the room to meet her friend at the back door. As she swung the door open Elizabeth motioned for Charlotte to get inside. "Hurry in out of the rain."
"Hello, Elizabeth." Charlotte shucked her wet jacket, hanging it on the coat rack by the entrance. "Hello, Bessie, am I in time for scones this morning?"
"You're a bit early, in about ten minutes I'll have 'em out," Bessie answered as she arranged the dough on a baking sheet.
"Lovely."
"What brings you out this morning, Charlotte?" Elizabeth asked while gesturing for her friend to have a seat at the table.
"I haven't seen you for nearly a week and was driving past so I thought I'd pop in for a visit."
"I'm glad you did, it's great to see you." Elizabeth reached for the teapot sitting on the table. "Let me get you some tea."
"I'd love a cup." Charlotte watched Elizabeth pour the steaming liquid. "How was London?"
Elizabeth handed Charlotte her teacup. "It was wonderful. I'm going to miss that boy."
"Have you heard from him?"
"He called last night when he landed."
"He's a fine son."
"Thanks, I certainly think he is."
"It's easy to see where he gets it - his father was a fine man."
Nodding, Elizabeth agreed. "He's so much like his father ... the older he gets the more he resembles Jonas. And when he called last night, for a few seconds I thought I was hearing Jonas - it was uncanny."
"You know what they say about women eventually becoming their mothers - it's probably true for men as well."
"That they become their mothers?"
Shaking her head, Charlotte rolled her eyes. "Very funny."
"Oh, come on." Elizabeth nudged her friend's arm. "Where's your sense of humor today?"
Charlotte raised her brow. "I should ask, where's yours?"
Elizabeth laughed aloud. "I'm so glad you came over today."
"I did actually have a reason for stopping by. Julianne arrives tomorrow afternoon and we're making a trip into Derby to shop - we'd love it if you'd come along with us."
"I shopped half of London yesterday, I think I'll pass."
"You shopped yesterday?"
"Yes."
"With Fitz?"
"Of course with him, who else would I have been with? You should know that since you sent him to get me."
Lifting her hand, Charlotte shook her finger at Elizabeth. "I didn't send him. He told me he was going to London and that he wanted to bring you back home."
Elizabeth eyed her friend suspiciously.
"It was his idea, not mine," Charlotte defended herself.
After a moment's contemplation, Elizabeth inclined her head. "All right, I believe you," she said with uncertainty.
As a sly grin formed on her lips, Charlotte lightly bobbed her head, taking a sip of her tea. "Although ... if he hadn't come to me about it, I would have suggested it to him."
"Now, that doesn't surprise me at all!" Elizabeth exclaimed.
The two friends laughed together then spent the next half hour eating scones with jam and clotted cream while visiting. When Charlotte was leaving she reminded Elizabeth about their appointment at the hair salon on Saturday.
"I'll come past to fetch you. It ought to be fun - Gwen reserved the entire afternoon to pamper us."
"I'm looking forward to it. Thanks, Charlotte."
"I'll see you later, darling." Charlotte quickly hugged Elizabeth. "Ring me if you change your mind about tomorrow."
"Okay." Elizabeth waved. "Bye, now."
The rain continued throughout the day and into the evening. Not wanting to chance catching cold, Elizabeth remained indoors - she wandered through the main rooms of the house, keeping an expectant watch out every window she passed. When the night sky darkened, masking any view she might have had, Elizabeth finally settled down to read in the sitting room.
The sound of the clock chiming roused her - she looked around the room, disoriented. Bessie and Ralph had retired early leaving her reading alone near the warmth of the fire - a faint glow of the embers was all she could now see in its place. Both hands of the clock were on the twelve. It's midnight? She rubbed her brow. What happened?
Recalling that she had been reading, Elizabeth searched for her book. It lay face down on the floor, open to a page near the back, not where she had last been perusing. Bending down, she picked the volume up, smoothing out the newly formed creases on the pages. "I'd better get to bed," she said aloud, and turning off the table lamp she stood, slowly making her way to the door as her eyes adjusted to the darkness.
Upstairs in her room she slipped into her nightgown and prepared for bed, trying to not think about William or why she hadn't heard from him that day. Sitting at the dressing table she brushed her hair. He never said he'd call. Elizabeth glanced at the lavender perfume bottle that she kept on the vanity. She set down her brush and picked up the bottle. "But I really wanted him to," she said softly, her voice laced with disappointment. Sighing, she replaced the bottle and rose to finish getting ready for bed.
Elizabeth tossed and turned in the spacious bed, trying to get to sleep, but no matter how hard she tried to clear her mind, thoughts of William always managed to slip through into her consciousness. Some time after three o'clock she finally fell into a deep, dreamless sleep.
The sun was shining brightly into the room when Elizabeth slowly opened her eyes, not yet certain she was fully awake and ready to get out of bed. Rolling over, she squinted to see the clock. "Almost a quarter past nine," she groaned as she rubbed her eyes. "I never sleep this late."
Throwing back the covers, she eased out of bed and grabbed her robe from the bedside chair. The smooth silk felt cool against her as she passed her arms into the sleeves and pulled the robe closed, securing it with a simple bow. Her bare feet slapped against the hard wood floor as she crossed the room, heading to the hall and down the stairs.
The house was quiet. Elizabeth peered into the kitchen wondering what Bessie could be doing so silently, but no one was in the room. On the table she could see a sheet of paper, and as she picked it up she recognized Bessie's handwriting - at that moment she realized it was Friday, Bessie and Ralph were gone to Birmingham until the next morning. "That's why it's so quiet," she said with relief as she lowered herself into a chair, reading the message her housekeeper had left for her.
Elizabeth,
Muffins are in the warming tray.
Hope you're feeling well.
Be back tomorrow.
Elizabeth grinned, thinking about the thoughtful woman who took care of her in so many ways. Bessie is so sweet ... I don't know what I'd do without her. As she sat at the table pondering Elizabeth glanced outside, suddenly aware that the sun was shining. "It stopped raining." She stood, opening the window to let the fresh morning air into the room. "What a beautiful day."
After gathering everything she needed for breakfast, Elizabeth hummed softly as she stared out the window while eating her simple meal. When she finished she crossed the kitchen to place her dishes in the sink; a small, pale blue envelope lying on the floor by the back door caught her eye. She picked the letter up - her name was written across it in a hand that was unfamiliar to her.
After breaking the seal Elizabeth quickly removed a handwritten note, anxious to discover its content.
Elizabeth,You didn't run this morning. Imagine my surprise at not seeing you out, especially after such a dreadful day of rain. Ian has a match at 4:00 this afternoon in Haywood - he'd be over the moon if you were to attend.
Fitzwilliam Darcy
P.S. Did I neglect to mention how delighted his father would be if you joined him there?
A broad smile covered her face, especially as she read the post script. She read the note again. How odd that he would sign his full name, she thought as she examined his signature - a sharply written F stood out prominently, the remainder of his first name essentially illegible except for what appeared to be a crossed T, and a bold D introduced the partially decipherable surname. She ran her fingertip over his name, imagining William writing this message. I've never seen his handwriting before, she mused as she gazed at his letter. There's so much about him that I don't know, yet I feel like I've known him for ages. Folding the note, she carefully placed it back in the envelope before hurrying upstairs to shower and dress.
With her wet hair wrapped in a towel Elizabeth entered her dressing room to find something to wear. As she shuffled through the closet she noticed her ball gown hanging on a hook over the door. Lifting the hanger, she removed the plastic covering that had been protecting the dress. Tracing her finger along the embroidered neckline, she admired the delicate stitches. While standing in front of the full length mirror Elizabeth held the gown up against her, trying to envision how she would look the next evening. After gazing for several moments she laid the gown over a chair and quickly unwrapped her hair towel, rushing to the bathroom to dry her damp locks.
When Elizabeth returned to the adjoining dressing room with her hair dried she took off her robe and slipped into the champagne colored evening gown. Reaching back, she pulled the zipper up, then turned to look into the mirror. A surge of elation ran through her when she saw her image in the glass. "I can't wait for tomorrow night," she said, her voice edged with excitement. Shifting closer to the mirror Elizabeth took hold of her wavy tresses, pulling them away from her face. "How should I wear my hair?" She arranged her chestnut locks atop her head, securing them with a clip, then turned to see every angle of her reflection. "Hmmm ... I'll see what Gwen can do with it."
As she continued to fuss with her hairstyle Elizabeth's eagerness for the ball intensified, wondering how the evening would turn out. It's been so long since I've danced ... I hope I don't trip over myself. She held up her arms as if she were positioning for a waltz and began to gently sway back and forth. Closing her eyes she sighed softly, imagining William's arm around her, leading her across the dance floor. Dropping her hands, she opened her eyes. What will he think of my dress? Elizabeth ran her hands down her sides, smoothing the silky fabric over the curve of her hips. Will he like my hair up? Or should I wear it down? Reaching up, she removed the clip and her hair fell down to her shoulders. She pulled it back again. "Definitely up."
"I wonder what he'll be wearing." A smile crept onto her face. "Mmmm ... classic black? Or something more contemporary? I'm sure he'll be amazingly handsome no matter what he wears." Elizabeth took another long look at her reflection. "I am so excited," she said, then stretched back to unzip the dress.
At half past three Elizabeth pulled her car out onto the road heading toward the village of Haywood. Finding William's note that morning had lifted her spirits and she had anxiously occupied herself throughout the day before she'd meet him at the soccer game. Looking down at the speedometer, Elizabeth realized that she was traveling well over the speed limit - she raised her foot, easing the pressure on the accelerator. "I don't want to arrive too early - I can't have him thinking I was eager to see him," she said, grinning to herself as the car slowed down. Maintaining a moderate speed, Elizabeth drove to Haywood and found her way to the playing field where Ian's team would have their match.
A small crowd had already gathered for the game and as Elizabeth approached she could see William huddling with his squad. Hugh stood by his father's side wearing very little expression on his face as he listened to William coach the boys. Elizabeth looked at the pair in the distance - every time she saw the two of them together she tried to see resemblance between the father and son, but was never able to. When he spoke Hugh sounded quite a bit like William, but aside from that it was difficult for Elizabeth to find any likeness. As she neared the pitch Hugh spotted her and she heard him grumble as he turned to his father.
"What's she doing here?"
William's head jerked around and a dimpled smile spread across his face when he saw Elizabeth coming toward them. "She's here because I invited her," William said to Hugh as he waved to Elizabeth, gesturing for her to join them on the sideline.
Hugh's obvious displeasure in seeing her was no surprise to Elizabeth - he never seemed in good spirits when she was around and she had come to expect his moody behavior, although lately she had noticed that he was displaying less animosity.
"Hello, William. Hello, Hugh," she greeted them both with a warm smile.
"Elizabeth, love, how are you?" William kissed her cheek.
Hugh nodded and mumbled incoherently before walking away to join Ian and the team.
"I'm so pleased you're here." William draped his arm across Elizabeth's shoulder, drawing her to his side. "I tried to see you yesterday."
Elizabeth's arm instinctively reached around William's waist. "You did?"
"Yes, but I wasn't able to get away."
"Busy day?"
"I suppose you could say that."
"Is everything all right?"
William shrugged. "I hope so."
"What's happened?"
"Oh, it's just..." Pursing his lips, William stared off into the distance.
"William?" Elizabeth tightened her hold around him. "What's going on?"
"I don't know," he said, shaking his head. "The match is going to start." William motioned toward the field. "I need to get over there." Removing his arm from Elizabeth's shoulder he tried to move onto the pitch, but Elizabeth kept hold of his waist.
"Tell me what's going on, Fitzwilliam," Elizabeth said, the tone of her voice growing serious as her brow furrowed with concern.
Drawing in a deep breath, William stood momentarily silent, ordering his thoughts. "Cecilia came to see me yesterday."
The severe expression on Elizabeth's face softened into a look of compassion. "I'm sorry, that couldn't have been easy for you."
"It wasn't pleasant."
"You should have called me." Elizabeth ran her hand across William's back. "We could've talked, or you could've talked while I listened."
Pleased to know he had Elizabeth's support, William's dimpled smile returned. "I'm so glad you're here."
"As am I." Elizabeth tipped her head back, gazing into William's eyes. Her pulse began racing as she felt a flush on her cheeks.
William stood just an arm's length away from Elizabeth, fighting the temptation to bend down and kiss her.
Elizabeth broke her stare and pointed toward the playing field. "You'd better go, the game is starting."
Turning to look, William nodded. "Can we talk later?"
A brief nod was Elizabeth's response.
"You were fantastic out there," Elizabeth said as she gave Ian a hug. After the game Ian ran over to see Elizabeth, telling her about how he had stopped a player on the other team from scoring a goal. "When you charged that tall boy and took the ball right out from under his foot you were so quick he didn't even know what had happened."
Ian beamed, his dimples appearing as his smile widened. "Hugh showed me how to do that."
"He did?" Elizabeth looked around, trying to spot Hugh amongst the crowd.
"Yeah, he's taught me a lot of stuff."
"It sounds like you enjoy having your brother around."
He nodded vigorously. "Yeah, I wish he didn't have to leave."
"Is he leaving?"
"He told me he was going back to London - his mum said he had to go."
"Really?"
"I want him to stay here."
Elizabeth placed her arm across Ian's shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "I know you do."
"Ian! Come on!" One of the boys from the team rushed over to Ian and Elizabeth. "Your Dad's taking us for ice cream."
Ian yelled out excitedly then took off running with his teammate. Elizabeth laughed softly as she watched the pair disappear into a sea of red and white jerseys.
"Will you come along with us?"
The sound of William's voice behind her gave her a start. Turning around, Elizabeth smiled up at him.
"Come join us in celebrating our victory."
"I don't think so. I'm not really in the mood to be in an ice cream parlor with a pack of energetic ten year old boys."
"I don't blame you." William chuckled. "May I see you later?"
"Come over after the celebration."
"All right, I'll see you tonight."
Elizabeth was in the garden when she heard a car pull up the driveway. Walking slowly along the path, she saw William as he stepped onto the back porch. "Hey, there!" she called out to him.
Waving, he turned to meet her.
"How was the ice cream party?"
"Noisy."
"I'm sure it was."
William wrapped his arms around Elizabeth, holding her tightly. "Let's take a walk," he whispered in her ear.
Returning the embrace, Elizabeth inclined her head. "Where to?"
"It doesn't matter, let's just walk." Taking Elizabeth's hand, William led her down the walkway toward the old stone wall on the southernmost edge of the property.
They chatted about the weather, Ian's soccer game and tomorrow's ball as they meandered, but with each new topic Elizabeth could sense William's hesitation to talk about what was foremost on his mind.
"Did Hugh speak with his mother yesterday?" Elizabeth asked, trying to steer the conversation toward William's encounter with Cecilia.
Slowing his step, William nodded. "He did."
"How did that go over?"
"I'm not certain ... I don't know what their discussion entailed, but Hugh wasn't happy afterwards."
"Hmmm..."
"He hardly spoke after Celia left, just went upstairs and pounded the piano for an hour."
"How was your conversation with his mother?"
"My conversation with his mother?" William drew in a long, deep breath as he approached the low wall. "I don't know..." He sat atop the stone barrier, letting his feet dangle in front of him.
Elizabeth took a seat next to him on the wall, waiting for him to open up and let his thoughts and feelings out. William had told Elizabeth very little about his first wife and their life together, or the reasons they had divorced, and Elizabeth suspected that William's feelings ran deep on the subject of Hugh's mother. Seeing the look in his eyes whenever he mentioned Cecilia, Elizabeth could tell he struggled with their past. But what's in their past? Love? Anger? Hatred? Pain? Elizabeth was anxious to hear - not only to satisfy her own curiosity about William's first marriage, but to try to help William as he dealt with his feelings about his first wife.
"It was ... quite loud." William chuckled nervously, not certain he wanted to tell Elizabeth about his conversation with Cecilia, which baffled him. The entire time he was with Cecilia the previous day all he could think of was how badly he wanted to see Elizabeth to tell her everything that was happening. "It's difficult to have a quiet conversation with Celia - she can be quite boisterous."
"She must have had something important to discuss with you to come all the way to Derbyshire."
William raked his hand through his hair as he gazed into the distance. After sitting silent for almost a full minute he finally looked at Elizabeth. "She wants Hugh back with her."
"What did you tell her?"
"I told her I want Hugh here with me."
"How did she react to that?"
"That's when the conversation grew rather loud." William grimaced.
Not wanting to interrupt his narrative, Elizabeth waited for William to expound.
"Celia came here intending to take Hugh back to London..." He shook his head. "I'm not certain why she doesn't want us to have a better relationship." William turned away, avoiding eye contact with Elizabeth.
Placing her hand atop William's, Elizabeth rubbed it gently.
"My interactions with Hugh have been better then ever these few weeks...why would she want to spoil it?"
"It's difficult to understand why people act the way they do sometimes. It could be anger, jealousy, or perhaps fear."
Facing Elizabeth, William cast a questioning look but said nothing.
"The important thing to keep in mind is that Hugh is still here with you." Elizabeth grasped William's hand. "She didn't take him away, William. He obviously wants to stay - here, with you."
With a twist of his wrist William took Elizabeth's hand in his and pulled her closer, then putting his arms around her, held her to him, grateful to have this opportunity to share in a relationship with Elizabeth. Her caring nature and calming influence helped bring balance to his life and he longed to tell her how much she meant to him, but instead he held her tighter, resting his head against hers. "Thank you, Elizabeth," he said, his voice soft and low. "It's extraordinary - life makes more sense when you're here."
Elizabeth leaned into William, enjoying the feel of his arms encircling her and the sound of his deep voice in her ear while conflicting emotions struggled within her - joy at the thought of being cherished and fear at the prospect of turning this new page in her life.
"How do you like it?" Gwen asked as she held a mirror for Elizabeth to see the back of her newly styled hair.
Elizabeth turned her head, examining every angle of the elegant coiffure. Gwen had crisscross parted the front and swept Elizabeth's hair around to the back, securing it up before loosely weaving her locks atop her head. Reaching back, Elizabeth lightly patted her woven tresses. Gwen had used so much hair spray to achieve this style Elizabeth worried that her hair would be too stiff or heavy, but it felt soft and natural. She nodded her approval. "I love it - it's absolutely perfect."
"You're sure to catch every eye in the room."
Smiling up at Gwen's reflection, Elizabeth thought about the ball and the person whose attention she couldn't fail to capture.
Gwen fussed with Elizabeth's hair a bit more, tucking in a loose strand at the base of her neck. "I think I'm finished here - you look gorgeous."
"Thanks, Gwen. You've done a great job." Leaning forward in the chair, Elizabeth took another long look in the mirror.
"Well, ladies," Charlotte called out from across the salon where she had been having her nails manicured, "are you ready for a night out?"
"I can hardly wait," Julianne said as she looked up from the magazine she had been reading while waiting for Gwen and her assistant to finish primping Charlotte and Elizabeth. "How much time do we have?"
"Don't worry; you'll have time enough to get ready before Percy arrives."
"Just hurry up," Julianne said impatiently as she motioned toward the door. "I don't want to keep him waiting."
"Don't be so anxious - it's good to make a man wait sometimes. It helps him to appreciate what it is he's waiting for," Charlotte replied. "Wouldn't you agree, Elizabeth?"
Elizabeth smiled as she nodded. "Sometimes."
Sitting at the dressing table Elizabeth put on her earrings - teardrop pearls with a diamond accent, a simple pair to go with the single strand of cultured pearls she wore around her neck. She had other necklaces she could have worn, but chose this one as it had always been her favorite. Jonas had surprised her with the necklace on their first Christmas together. Elizabeth ran her finger along the smooth pearls as she thought about that day.
They had arisen early Christmas morning and exchanged simple gifts - Elizabeth had found a hand carved wooden chess set for Jonas and he had given her a silk negligee, but that evening after dinner at Jonas' parents house when his family was opening their presents, Jonas slipped a small package onto Elizabeth's lap.
A look of surprise washed over her face as she wondered what was in the box, and when she unwrapped it and opened the case her eyes widened even further as she stared at the beautiful string of pearls she held in her hands. She looked up at Jonas - he stood by her side, grinning as he watched Elizabeth react to his gift. "How...? Where did you...?" she stammered, trying to figure out where he had found the money in their limited budget to buy such an expensive item.
Chuckling, Jonas knelt down beside her, taking her hand in his. "Do you remember last semester ... those nights I said I needed to go to study group?"
Elizabeth's brow furrowed as she recalled the many times Jonas had been gone during the past few months. "Yes."
"Well ... I wasn't studying. I was working extra hours so I could buy you this."
For several moments Elizabeth made no response. "You didn't have to do that," she finally said.
"I know I didn't have to - I wanted to."
Tears welled in Elizabeth's eyes as Jonas kissed her tenderly.
"I love you, Beth."
"I love you, too," she whispered hoarsely as she gazed into the mirror, her eyes glistening.
"Where is she, Charlotte? I thought she was riding over with you."
"Relax, Fitz, she'll be here."
"The reception is nearly over..." his voice trailed off as he turned to again look out the window. Anxious to see Elizabeth, William kept watch for her throughout the champagne reception; as the guest count increased, his eagerness for her arrival also increased.
"I don't think she would have spent the afternoon at the salon having her hair done if she wasn't planning to come to the ball."
"Of course." William tightened his lips as he tried to smile. "I'm sure she'll be here soon."
"Ah, Fitz, there you are," Caroline called out as she entered the foyer and approached her ex-husband. "What are you doing out here? You should be in the hall with your guests."
"I have been in the hall, I stepped out momentarily," William answered with a tinge of irritation in his voice.
"As the chairperson and host of this event you shouldn't ignore the guests who are here."
William clenched his jaw. "It isn't your place to be telling me what I should or shouldn't be doing, Caroline."
"I'm not telling you what you should be doing, Fitz," Caroline said smoothly, placing her hand on his arm.
At her touch William's back stiffened and he felt the hairs on his neck bristle, but said nothing in response; he instead turned his attention toward Caroline's date who had trailed into the corridor behind her. "Neville, how are you this evening?"
"Very well." Neville Bickerstaff put his hand out to shake William's. "It's a privilege to spend the evening in such a grand house - it's all I had anticipated it would be."
William nodded. "Thank you."
"You must have a tour, darling." Caroline linked her arm into Neville's. "Fitz, you should give Neville a tour before dinner is served."
"No, Caroline, I should get back to the hall and join my guests." William glanced at Neville apologetically.
Caroline's eyes narrowed as she glowered at Fitzwilliam, her tightly pursed lips quivering slightly.
"It's high time you showed up," Charlotte said loudly, causing the others in the group to look to see whom she was speaking to.
The moment he saw her, William rushed toward Elizabeth as she approached. "Elizabeth..." His eyes lit up as he took in the sight of her in her gown. "You look stunning."
A faint blush crept onto Elizabeth's cheek as William stopped in his tracks and stood gazing at her with an awed expression on his face. "Thank you. You look very nice yourself."
When she was walking down the corridor Elizabeth immediately noticed that William was standing amongst the group at the end of the hallway. He looked better than she had envisioned he would - his hair was freshly trimmed, shorter than she'd ever seen before, and the cut of the classic black tuxedo he wore flattered his tall, trim frame perfectly.
William kissed Elizabeth's cheek, then placed her hand in the crook of his arm before escorting her over to the small company.
"We thought you might have changed your mind," Charlotte said as she quickly hugged her friend.
"No, I wouldn't miss this." Elizabeth looked around at the others. "Hello, Caroline, Neville. It's nice to see you again."
Caroline merely nodded while feigning a genuine smile, but Neville took one of Elizabeth's hands and placed a kiss on it. "You look lovely tonight."
Daggers flew from Caroline's eyes as she glared at Elizabeth.
"Perhaps we should move into the other room to join the party," Charlotte suggested while swiftly walking toward a pair of doors.
"Excellent idea." William held his arm out. "Elizabeth, will you join us?"
Eager to distance herself from Caroline, Elizabeth readily agreed. "I'd love to." She slipped her hand through William's outstretched arm and they followed Charlotte into the large, noisy room.
With Elizabeth at his side William began weaving through the throng. They greeted people as they passed, stopping to visit with their friends and neighbors.
"Anne. Geoffrey." William embraced his cousin before shaking her husband's hand. "It's wonderful to see you here."
"I've been looking forward to this all year," Anne replied, then looked over at the woman by his side. "Elizabeth, I'm so glad to see that you're still here. Does life in our country suit you?"
"Thank you, I love it here in England." Elizabeth smiled as she responded.
"There's quite a lot to enjoy here." Anne grinned at William. "I hope you'll stay indefinitely."
"I have no plans to leave just yet."
"Splendid." Anne turned to her husband. "Isn't that splendid news, Geoffrey?"
Geoffrey glanced at his wife. "Quite."
As he watched the two women speaking William noticed a familiar glint in his cousin's eye and knew that she was up to something. The last thing I need is Anne trying to help my relationship with Elizabeth, he thought uneasily. "I don't mean to be rude," William interrupted, taking hold of Elizabeth's arm. "It's nearly time for dinner to begin. I need to make certain everything's in order."
"Of course." Anne arched her brow as she observed William's demeanor. "We'll see you both later."
William nodded then hurried off with Elizabeth toward the dining room, not to make sure the meal was ready, but to keep Anne from meddling in his personal life. She's so much like her mother in that regard.
"Fitz!" Sir Percy grabbed William's shoulder as the couple passed by him. "Charlotte said you had come in, but I've had a devil of a time trying to find you in this crowd - I don't ever recall having a turnout such as this." His eyes widened when he turned to face Elizabeth. "You look radiant, darling." He gave her a peck on the cheek. "Fitz, you can't keep this beauty all to yourself tonight, I must have a dance with her."
"You'll have to ask the lady, so far she's only promised one to me."
"Elizabeth, you must save a dance for me"
"Most definitely, my night wouldn't be complete if we didn't share a dance together."
"Ah, I love it when you flatter me." Sir Percy winked at Elizabeth. "I'll anxiously await our time alone together, but now I must find the lovely Julianne." He raised the glass he held then spun around to find his date.
"Hurry." William took Elizabeth's hand and quickly dodged out the door, rushing down the corridor toward the dining room; but instead of entering William led Elizabeth to a doorway at the end of the long hall. Turning the handle, he guided her inside and as he closed the doors behind him the light from the hallway disappeared leaving the couple standing in the dark.
"William?"
"Yes, love."
"What are we doing in here?"
"Enjoying the silence."
Elizabeth laughed softly. "I think we're hiding."
"What a marvelous idea." William wrapped his arm around her waist. "Let's hide in here the entire evening." In the shadowy light that filtered through the draperies he could vaguely see the contours of her face and neck. He placed his hand on Elizabeth's cheek then bent down to tenderly kiss her lips. "Did I tell you how gorgeous you look tonight?"
"I don't remember, let me think..."
Taking her face in his hands, William lightly brushed his lips against Elizabeth's. "You smell lovely." He kissed her again as he ran his fingers behind her ear and down her neck. "I like your hair like this - it's beautiful." William twined a finger into a woven lock at the base of her neck, then gently pulled her toward him, tasting the sweetness of her mouth as he kissed her slowly and deeply.
Elizabeth slipped her hands inside William's coat, pressing her body to his. She could feel desires flaming within her. "Will..." she whispered.
"Hmmm." William nuzzled against her neck, trailing kisses down to her shoulder.
"William..." Elizabeth's voice was faint. "I think we should..."
"Should what?" he asked as he whispered kisses along her nape.
"We should probably..." she said distractedly, paying more attention to his caresses that to the sentence she was trying to formulate.
William loosened his hold of Elizabeth and pulled back, studying her face in the pale light. She is so beautiful ... in every way ... I want to be with her...He gently stroked her cheek. I think perhaps I love her. William's heart swelled and began to beat faster within his chest as he kissed her once again. "Elizabeth..." he moaned, his voice barely audible. Closing his eyes he held her to him.
Elizabeth rested her head on his shoulder taking in his scent as she inhaled deeply. Of all the things she missed in her life alone, being held in a loving embrace was probably what she yearned for most - now here she stood in the caring arms of a man whom she felt dangerously close to being in love with; and although the comfort of his embrace gave her a sense of belonging she still held doubts about her future with him.
The mantel clock began to chime the hour, breaking the serenity of their intimate encounter.
William released his hold and stepped away from Elizabeth. "Regrettably I must leave to attend to my hosting duties."
They walked slowly to the double doors and as William reached for the handle he turned to Elizabeth. "Remember, you've promised the first dance to me."
"I remember." Elizabeth smiled to herself, thinking how unlikely it was that she'd forget her dance with William.
"Wonderful." Opening the doors, William escorted Elizabeth across the corridor to the dining room where many of the guests had begun to gather.
Charlotte waved and motioned for Elizabeth to join her when she saw her friend crossing the room alone. "You're coming undone here." She pointed to a lock of hair that had escaped from Elizabeth's meticulously styled hair and now dangled at the nape of her neck.
Reaching up, Elizabeth found the loose strand and tucked it back into place.
"Have you seen Julianne?"
Elizabeth shook her head and shifted to look around the crowded room. "I saw Sir Percy, but she wasn't with him."
"Well, I'm sure they'll find us." Charlotte pointed to the corner of the dining room. "Let's sit down - Collins is holding a table for us."
The two women made their way through the horde, looking to see Julianne on their way to the corner table. Geoffrey and Anne had already joined Collins and the two men were immersed in conversation. Anne greeted Elizabeth and Charlotte, pleased to have some female companionship at the table.
Dinner was being served when Sir Percy and Julianne arrived at the table accompanied by a woman Elizabeth had never seen before.
"Mary!" Charlotte stood and greeted the woman enthusiastically. "I haven't seen you in ages. Collins, do you remember my old friend Mary Wickham?"
"No, Charlotte," the woman said as she held up her hand. "It's not Wickham any more - we divorced a year and a half ago. I'm Mary King again."
"Oh...I see." Charlotte gestured around the table. "I think you already know most everyone here, but I'd like you to meet a dear friend of mine."
After introducing Mary King to Elizabeth they all took their seats, talking and visiting throughout the first course of the meal. Elizabeth listened distractedly to the conversation as her eyes wandered across the table toward the two chairs that remained unoccupied. What's keeping him? She wondered while turning in her seat, trying to discover if William was somewhere in the room. I hope he joins us soon.
Halfway through the second course William's familiar voice caught Elizabeth's attention. Looking up, she could see William conversing with the guests at an adjacent table accompanied by Hugh. She could feel her heart quicken its pace, anticipating his joining them for the remainder of the meal. Her only disappointment was in the fact that she was situated between Charlotte and Anne and the only available seats were on the opposite side of the table. Shifting in her chair, Elizabeth turned to focus on the discussion that Charlotte was having with her old friend.
"Are you going to move town?" Charlotte asked.
Mary shook her head. "I'm not certain."
"We'd love to have you back."
"You've previously lived in Lambton?" Elizabeth inquired, joining the conversation.
"Yes, quite a few years ago - before I was married," Mary responded.
Elizabeth observed Mary King - she was a quiet woman, seemingly intelligent, with an air of melancholy about her. Elizabeth guessed that she was probably younger than herself, but her serious countenance caused her to look older than she truly was.
"There you are, old man." Sir Percy's booming voice silenced all discussion at the table as everyone looked to see whom he was addressing. "I thought perhaps you'd been hiding."
William quickly glanced at Elizabeth. "This is a large house; there are many places where one could hide for the entire evening."
Elizabeth could feel a blush on her cheeks when her eyes momentarily met his.
"I'm glad you've finally decided to join us, Fitz," Geoffrey called out to the newcomer. "Take a seat; we've saved one for you."
"You as well, Hugh." Anne gestured toward the empty chairs. "You can't just mill about the room, you need to eat."
William cast a brief look at the seating arrangement and pursed his lips as he followed Hugh to their seats, wishing that he had been there to secure a place beside Elizabeth. Sitting directly across from her was not where he wanted to be, but it did give him the opportunity to regard her without obstruction, which he did. In fact, William spoke very little during the meal and his eyes seldom strayed far from Elizabeth, although he did notice, with a considerable amount of surprise and displeasure, the presence of Mary Wickham at the table.
Several times throughout dinner Elizabeth had caught William staring at her - she met his earnest gaze with a pertly arched brow before turning her attention toward her neighbors, but in the course of her silent flirtations with him she noticed William's agitated expression when he had recognized Charlotte's old friend.
With the meal over, the doors to the ballroom were opened. William stood and quickly rounded the table, and taking hold of Elizabeth's hand led her to the dance floor. Electricity filled the air as the music began to play. Biting her lower lip, Elizabeth looked up at William as he took her hand in one of his and positioned the other on her lower back.
William grinned at Elizabeth. "Are you nervous?"
"Nervous?"
"You're biting your lip."
Elizabeth smiled. "I wouldn't describe what I'm feeling as nervousness."
"What would you call it?"
"I don't know ... it's a feeling of..."
"Exhilaration? Jubilation? Delight?"
Laughing aloud, Elizabeth's eyes brightened. "I think you flatter yourself, Mr. Darcy."
"Do you mean to tell me that you're not feeling exhilarated and delighted? That you stand before me with your lip between your teeth as an expression of boredom or disgust?"
The smile on her face widened as her brow slowly rose, but Elizabeth said nothing as the pair began to move across the dance floor.
William pulled her closer to him and bending his head downward, whispered, "I believe you are delighted..." He brushed his lips against her ear. "And exhilarated."
She went hot and cold simultaneously as her cheeks flushed to crimson and goose bumps prickled her arms. Elizabeth turned her head to hide her reaction while attempting to maintain her composure as they danced.
"You seem rather quiet this evening. Is anything the matter?"
"Not at all. In fact, I feel wonderful tonight."
"I'm glad." With his arm encircling her waist, William enjoyed the sensation of having Elizabeth as his partner - the warmth of her touch, the softness of her skin, the heady fragrance of her perfume.
Similar thoughts were rushing through Elizabeth's mind. Dancing in William's arms she felt the gentle strength of his hands and deeply breathed in the scent of his cologne, but the sensation of her body pressed against his in the movement of the dance stirred longings to be even closer still.
"You do make a lovely couple, darling, and I've never seen him this happy."
"Do you really think so?"
"Yes, I do." Charlotte turned to face her companion. "I never thought I'd see him settle down with one woman, but I do believe you've won his heart."
"Have I truly?" Julianne asked Charlotte, her eyes fixed across the room watching Sir Percy dancing with Elizabeth.
"I have no doubt." Charlotte took Julianne's hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. "Just give him time - he'll realize it soon enough."
"I hope so." The younger woman sighed as she continued to watch the man who owned her heart talking and laughing as he lead her friend around the dance floor.
Sir Percy and Elizabeth soon joined the pair of women, and the gentleman quickly found his place by Julianne's side causing Charlotte to cast her cousin a knowing look.
"My dear Julianne..." Sir Percy reached toward her. "Would you join me for a dance?"
"I'd love to," Julianne replied, placing her hand in his.
Elizabeth and Charlotte watched the couple cross the floor, not noticing that Anne and Geoffrey were approaching.
"I'm afraid he's hopelessly lost," Geoffrey said, drawing the ladies' attention.
"Indeed," Charlotte agreed.
Elizabeth nodded. "It happens to the best of men."
One of Anne's eyebrows cocked as she scrutinized Elizabeth. "It most certainly does, in fact, I've noticed that..."
"I don't mean to intrude," Neville Bickerstaff said as he joined the small group. "Elizabeth, I was wondering if you would care to dance."
Surprised at the offer, Elizabeth hesitated before giving her response. "Of course."
Geoffrey looked at Charlotte curiously. "Who's that bloke?" he asked after Elizabeth and her dance partner had walked away.
"Caroline's latest beau, Neville Bickersomething or other."
Anne chuckled softly. "I'm surprised Caroline let him dance with another woman."
"Me too," Charlotte said.
"I don't see Caroline anywhere." Geoffrey scanned the room. "Perhaps she's not aware that he's asked another woman to dance."
"Heaven help us all when she finds out." Anne rolled her eyes, recalling the days when her cousin had been married to Caroline and the jealous tirades she had subjected Fitz and his family to.
"Let's pray that she doesn't," Charlotte sighed.
When Elizabeth returned to her friends Neville thanked her for the dance then excused himself.
"Have any of you seen Fitz?" Anne asked, looking directly at Elizabeth.
"I'm afraid not, dear," Geoffrey replied. "He has much to attend to this evening and isn't able to spend all of his time with us you know."
"I know that, Geoffrey," Anne said with irritation. "I was asking..."
"Oh, good lord," Geoffrey interrupted as he looked over his wife's shoulder. "Brace yourself, ladies."
The three women turned to see what had captured Geoffrey's attention and were met by Caroline's angry, scowling face.
"Caroline..." Anne attempted a greeting as Caroline pushed past her.
"You!" Caroline approached Elizabeth, seething. "I have put up with enough of you." She stepped closer, trying to intimidate the shorter woman.
Straightening her back, Elizabeth raised her chin high giving her the appearance of taller stature. "Do you want to take issue with me, Caroline?"
"I know what you're up to."
"What?" Elizabeth moved closer. "Just what do you think I'm up to?"
"You know exactly what I'm talking about and if you think I'm going to sit back and let you..."
"You haven't a clue what I'm about, and I'd be surprised if you even know what you're about, so I'd advise you to stay out of my affairs." Elizabeth's voice was low and firm.
Caroline's eyes narrowed further. "Stay out of your affairs? I'm sure that's exactly what you'd like me to do."
"If you have any sense at all that is exactly what you'll do." Elizabeth stepped forward, narrowing the gap between her and the ill mannered woman. "Stay out of my affairs and tend to your own."
"How dare you presume to tell me..."
"I've not presumed nearly as much as you have. Now, kindly step away and never accost me again - I am not yours to abuse." As she spoke Elizabeth's eyes darkened, sending a piercing message to Caroline.
Caroline lifted her chin and opened her mouth to speak, but instead stared silently at Elizabeth for a moment before turning and walking away.
"Elizabeth, you were magnificent." Charlotte looked at her friend in amazement. "Remind me to never have a row with you."
"Well done, very well done." Geoffrey clapped his hands together while chuckling with delight. "I don't believe I've ever seen Caroline run away with her tail tucked."
"Sorry to disturb you, but..." Hugh, who had been standing nearby and had heard the entire encounter, interrupted the small group. "Elizabeth, I was wondering...would you dance with me?"
Elizabeth's expression softened as she smiled at the boy. "I would love to dance with you, Hugh."
The young man nodded, and gesturing toward the dance floor the unlikely pair traversed the ballroom to join in a dance.
"Your father never mentioned that you would be here tonight."
Hugh shrugged. "I didn't want to be here ... just yesterday I agreed to attend."
"I'm glad you decided to come."
"I'm glad too." A faint grin formed on Hugh's mouth. "Especially after hearing you tell Caroline off."
"You heard that?"
"I did." He chuckled. "It was brilliant."
Astonished to be conversing so easily with William's son, who had always been distant and cool toward her, Elizabeth didn't quite know what to say. "Well, I don't think..."
"No, really, it was totally brilliant."
Elizabeth laughed softly, amazed at Hugh's altered behavior.
"The look on her face when you stepped up and told her to mind her own business was fantastic." Hugh grinned broadly as he recalled the moment, and as the dimples appeared on his cheeks Elizabeth saw, for the first time, a resemblance between the young man and his father.
A warm smile spread across Elizabeth's face as she silently regarded her dance partner. He looks so much like William when he smiles ... I've never seen Hugh so expressive ... I can hardly believe this is the same boy ... what a change ... so unexpected. "So...you and Caroline are very close, I see"
Hugh guffawed. "Absolutely - the very best of friends."
"Just as I suspected."
"As a matter of fact, she's promised me the next dance."
"Well, that's something to look forward to."
"I can barely contain my excitement."
As she chuckled aloud Elizabeth's mind filled with questions she wanted to ask Hugh - there was so much she wanted to know about this young man. Take it slowly, she cautioned herself.
During the remainder of their dance together, Elizabeth and Hugh talked as they had never before. Their conversation had very little depth, but it left both parties feeling more amicable toward the other as they walked away from the dance floor.
"I saw my dad with the Stansburys earlier, should we go find him?" Hugh motioned toward the far side of the room. "I think he wants to dance with you again."
"Yes, I'd like that," Elizabeth responded, and as they turned to find William they were approached by a very attractive, dark haired man - a man whom Elizabeth had no acquaintance with.
"Hugh," the stranger greeted the teenager while never taking his eyes off Elizabeth. "How are you, lad?"
"I'm well," the boy answered while eyeing the man cautiously.
"I had no idea you were at Pemberley." He finally made eye contact with Hugh as he patted his shoulder, not noticing that Hugh's back stiffened at the touch. "How's your mother? Is she here with you tonight?"
"No, she's not."
"And who is this lovely lady?" The man once again cast his eyes on Elizabeth, this time taking her hand in his. "I think you need to introduce us, Hugh, so that I might ask her to dance."
After a moments hesitation Hugh reluctantly complied with the request. "This is Elizabeth Bennet." Hugh turned to look at Elizabeth with an uncertain expression. "Elizabeth, this is George Wickham."
"Wickham?" she asked as she slipped her hand from his. "Any relation to a Mary Wickham?"
The man's face went blank. "Mary Wickham ... why, yes ... as a matter of fact, I was once married to a Mary Wickham, but let's not talk about her." His lips curled up into a smile, revealing his sparkling white, cosmetically enhanced teeth. "Please, join me for a dance."
Elizabeth quickly assessed the man. He was handsome, almost too handsome - he had well groomed brown hair, a perfect smile, and gray blue eyes that, although they gleamed as he spoke, seemed empty. "I'd be happy to dance with you," Elizabeth said, the sweetness in her voice matching that of her smile. "But right now I'm exhausted; I'd like to sit for a while."
"I see," Wickham responded as a look of disappointment flashed across his face. "Allow me to join you." Taking hold of Elizabeth's arm, he moved to lead her to the edge of the room to find a seat. "Tell your mum hello for me." He winked while nudging Hugh with his elbow.
Placing her hand on Hugh's arm, Elizabeth gave it a gentle squeeze. "Thank you, Hugh."
Hugh nodded and cast Elizabeth an apologetic look before turning away to find his father in the crowded ballroom.
"How long have you been in England?" Wickham asked as they made their way off the dance floor.
"Nearly three months."
"Have you made residence or are you on holiday?"
"I have a home here in Lambton."
"I see." Having found a pair of chairs, Wickham gestured for Elizabeth to sit down. "I once lived near Lambton. Where exactly do you reside?"
"Not far from here actually - just a small estate down the road."
"Indeed." Wickham sat on the edge of his seat, leaning toward Elizabeth. "So, you live in the neighborhood of Pemberley?"
Elizabeth nodded her response.
"Are you very well acquainted with the Darcys?"
"Yes, very well acquainted. Are you?"
Wickham nodded as he turned to quickly scan the room. "I've been connected with the family for quite a long while."
A curious brow arched on Elizabeth's face as she watched Wickham's pale eyes grow dark at the mention of his association with the Darcy's.
"For several years I was employed by Darcy...and during that time I became ... very well acquainted with his ... family."
The hesitation in his voice as he spoke raised Elizabeth's curiosity even further, and she was keen to know more of this man's relationship with William. "How long ago did you work for the Darcy's?"
"I was a much younger man that I am now."
"I see ... so it was many, many years ago."
Wickham laughed aloud. "Yes, it was."
"What type of work did you do for Fitzwilliam all those years ago?"
"A bit of everything really." He fidgeted nervously, shifting in his seat. "I helped manage things."
"Hmmm ... what line of work are you in now?"
"I'm ... I find myself looking for a new situation at the moment." Wickham stood then held his hand out to Elizabeth. "I'm eager to have our dance, are you feeling rested?"
"I think so." Without taking his hand Elizabeth stood and accompanied Wickham back onto the dance floor.
"Tell me about you," he said after a short silence had passed. "Do you have children?"
"I have one son."
"Is he in England with you?"
She shook her head. "He recently completed his first year of law school in America."
"That can't be so," Wickham exclaimed. "I find it difficult to believe that you could have a child old enough to attend university."
Elizabeth chuckled lightly. "Nevertheless, I do."
"Unbelievable."
"What about you? Any children?"
"None for me." Wickham raised his brow. "Tell me, where is Mr. Bennet this evening?"
Stung by this unexpected query, Elizabeth closed her eyes momentarily, gathering her equanimity. "He was unable to attend."
"Pity."
Suddenly unwilling to make conversation with this man, Elizabeth turned away, looking across the room to find a familiar face, more particularly William's face, but as she scoured the room all she found were the faces of strangers and mere acquaintances.
As they continued to dance, Wickham made several attempts to engage Elizabeth in conversation, but had very little success regaining the rapport he thought he had at first kindled with her.
With each turn of the dance Elizabeth kept her watch for William, hoping to see him in the crowd. When she finally caught a glimpse of him she noticed that he was with Geoffrey and Sir Percy, and when they turned in her direction Elizabeth became concerned at the agitated expressions that all three men wore. Geoffrey seemed to be the least affected of the group, and Sir Percy was shaking his head at William, holding his hands up as if trying to calm his friend. But the aggravated look on William's face disturbed Elizabeth - she had never before seen him angry. What's the matter? She wondered while trying to catch William's eye, but he wasn't looking at her - he was looking in her direction, but focusing on something or someone else.
The dance ended and just as Wickham was thanking Elizabeth Charlotte rushed to her friend's side, completely ignoring Elizabeth's companion.
"There you are." Charlotte draped her arm across Elizabeth's shoulder. "Come along with me."
Noting the stern tone in Charlotte's voice, Elizabeth eyed her curiously. "What's wrong?"
"Why were you dancing with George Wickham?"
"What?"
"Don't you know that he's the one who ... that he..."
Turning around, Elizabeth saw Wickham quickly weaving his way through the throng, heading toward the doors. "That he what?" She shifted to find William, but he had disappeared in the crowd. "Charlotte, I just barely met the man - what should I know about him?"
"Oh, never mind."
"Never mind?"
"We can talk about this later."
"If there's something I should know about George Wickham then tell me now."
"Just stay away from him, Elizabeth."
"Why, Charlotte? Tell me."
Taking hold of Elizabeth's elbow, Charlotte led her friend to the corner of the room where they took seats on an empty settee. "I don't know what I should..."
"Charlotte," Collins interrupted. "Charlotte, I need to speak to you."
Elizabeth watched Charlotte walk away with her husband - they stopped several feet from the sofa. Charlotte stood calmly while Collins spoke in an agitated manner, gesturing toward the doors. The few words Elizabeth was able to hear piqued her interest further - Mary leaving, Wickham dancing, and something about Fitz.
Charlotte pivoted on her heel, turning back toward Elizabeth. "I'll be back shortly."
Before Elizabeth even had a chance to respond Charlotte hurried off and Collins took her place on the settee.
"What's going on?" Elizabeth asked him.
"What do you mean?"
Shaking her head, Elizabeth furrowed her brow. "Something's going on here, Collins. Everyone seems to be acting strangely, including you."
"Nothing to worry about ... Charlotte just went to say goodbye to her friend Mary."
She sat contemplating for several moments, gazing out across the bustling room. "It's more than that. Why is everyone so bent out of shape over George Wickham being here?"
"Wickham?" Collins asked nervously. "What about George Wickham?"
"Exactly what I'd like to know. What about him?"
"Well ... I, um ... I'm not entirely certain. Mary is upset about it - she never thought he'd show up here. She didn't ever want to see him again."
"But what about Fitzwilliam? Is he angry at Wickham?"
Collins shifted in his seat. "I've only heard rumors about what happened between them ... I'm not saying a thing. You'll have to ask them about it."
Pursing her lips, Elizabeth drew in a deep breath. "I need to get away from all this noise." She rose from her seat and strode to the doors, leaving the tumult of the ballroom behind her.
Elizabeth slowed her pace as she made her way down the long hallway, and was soon completely alone in the foyer. At the base of the grand staircase she looked upward, deciding whether she wanted to climb the stairs to find solitude or leave the house to stroll in the gardens. The sound of laughter carried down the corridor and Elizabeth could hear footsteps echoing on the marble floor - she quickly chose to take the stairs, away from the activity of the evening's visitors.
Once upstairs she slowed her pace, finding the soft lights of the corridor and the hushed tones emanating from the downstairs party soothing. Elizabeth entered a wide hallway with ornate cornices and rows of portraits hanging on the walls. She strolled along, briefly stopping to examine a few of the paintings, wondering who the subjects were, guessing that they were all Darcys who had once dwelled in this ancient domicile. As she sauntered down the hall casually looking at the portraits she passed, her eyes were captivated by a rendering of a dark haired man with piercing green eyes. For several minutes she stood still, mesmerized by the expression on the gentleman's face - he seemed so serious, and yet so very handsome that Elizabeth couldn't break her stare. She smiled to herself, thinking how silly and girlish she was behaving, when the sound of piano music caught her attention.
Following the tones of the piano down the hall and around a corner, Elizabeth found a partially opened door with light pouring out into the dimly lit hallway from within. She stepped lightly, peering inside - it was a large room with several instruments scattered throughout, including a grand piano where Hugh was seated, playing loudly, unaware of her presence. As she glanced around Elizabeth couldn't see anyone else, only the boy completely engrossed in the music. Standing in the doorway, she listened to the piece Hugh was playing - it sounded familiar, but she couldn't quite place it. Elizabeth watched the emotions play across Hugh's face - his head was bent downward, bobbing gently while keeping time with the beat of the music. She wondered if she should make her presence known, or perhaps just walk away without a word.
Cautiously, she stepped into the room, having made her decision to join the young man at the instrument. Hugh looked up as Elizabeth neared the piano and his hands abruptly ceased their movement.
"Schumann?" she asked.
Hugh shook his head. "Liszt."
"It sounded wonderful." Elizabeth drew closer, stopping at the far end of the piano, opposite of Hugh. "Your father told me you were very proficient. I'm glad I was able to hear for myself - you play beautifully."
Casting his eyes downward, Hugh stared at his hands. "Thanks."
"Will you continue?"
Keeping his eyes averted, he lightly ran his fingers across the keys, fairly itching to resume playing, but not certain about having an audience while doing so.
"Will you please?" She edged closer. "I know it's selfish of me to ask, but you play so well ... and it's been a long time since I've really heard..." Feeling herself on the verge of tears, Elizabeth drew in a deep breath, trying to contain her emotions while deciding what she would tell Hugh. "You see ... my husband played piano ... quite well too. I used to love sitting by his side while he practiced." Looking at the young man, she tried to gauge his reaction to her revelation, but wasn't sure if she detected indifference or insecurity. "I would love to hear you play again."
Reaching atop the piano, Hugh slid a stack of sheet music toward Elizabeth. "What would you like to hear?"
Elizabeth smiled warmly, pleased to still be having a good rapport with William's son. "There's one piece Jonas often played for me." She shuffled through the scores. "It's always been one of my favorites..."
"What piece is it? I may not be familiar with it."
"Oh, I'm sure you are - everyone knows this one. I've even attempted to play it, but only succeeded in massacring it."
Hugh laughed. "That terrible?"
"You have no idea." Elizabeth rolled her eyes.
Dimples appeared on Hugh's cheeks as his smile widened, once again amazing Elizabeth with how much he looked like his father and why she'd never before seen it.
"Ah, here it is." Elizabeth handed the sheet music to Hugh.
Nodding his head, Hugh spread the pages out in front of him. "You're right, I do know this one." Hugh began to play the first few notes then stopped abruptly. "Are you sure you wouldn't like to give it a try?" The corners of his lips curled up. "I think I'd like to hear your rendition of Für Elise."
Laughing aloud, Elizabeth shook her head. "Out of the question."
Remnants of a smile remained on the boy's face as he turned back to the piano to play. Elizabeth stood nearby, watching him finger the keys skillfully, reminding her of the many times she had looked on as Jonas smoothly ran his hands along the ivory keyboard, his long, slender fingers moving with ease and grace producing beautiful tones on the instrument.
Hugh played the song through without hesitation or interruption and when he was finished he filed the pages back in order then handed them to Elizabeth.
"Thank you, that was beautiful." Setting the music down in front of her, Elizabeth absently smoothed the worn edges of the sheets. "That was the first song Jonas ever played for me...we had been dating for nearly three months and I'd never even heard him play the piano until that night he played Für Elise..." With a far off look, Elizabeth smiled at the memory. "That was the night he asked me to marry him..." Turning to face Hugh, she felt a faint blush on her cheeks. "But you probably think this is all very boring, even sappy."
"No, not at all." Hugh smiled gently. "It sounds like you really loved your husband, and that you miss him."
"I do miss him ... a great deal."
"Pete told me a lot about him - he misses him too."
Elizabeth nodded. "He does."
Hugh sat quietly for a moment, a thoughtful expression passing over his face. "Does Pete play piano as well?"
"I'm afraid Peter inherited my inability to play." Elizabeth chuckled softly. "He tries to play the guitar, and he has an excellent voice - he even sang in his high school choir."
"Do you sing or did your husband?"
"I love to sing, but Jonas never sang - well, he did occasionally, but only when we danced. What about you? Do you sing as well as play?"
Nodding, Hugh pursed his lips. "Well, I, uh ... I like to sing, but my mum doesn't like me to - we don't sing much at our house."
"Hmmm. That's too bad. I hope to someday hear you sing."
"Perhaps." A slight grin formed on Hugh's mouth. "Perhaps I'll sing while you play."
Elizabeth laughed aloud. "We'll have to see about that."
"We will then." Hugh stood and reached over, picking up the pile of sheet music. "Would you like to hear something else?" He sorted through the stack.
A bit surprised that Hugh offered to play again, Elizabeth inclined her head, not wanting to discourage the positive direction she and Hugh were heading, and more than happy to be his audience. "Please. I'm certain I could never grow tired of hearing you play."
Hugh pulled a few scores from the handful of music he held, and arranging them in front of him began to play - first a Mozart piece, then one from Brahms. They spoke between each number as Hugh shuffled the pages before him, and as they each grew more comfortable with the other the conversation became very natural and easy.
"You seemed familiar with George Wickham - is he a friend of your father's?"
"Not at all." Hugh shook his head. "I think my dad hates him."
"Really?"
"They used to be friends - I've seen photos of them together when they were younger, but something happened between them."
"Hmmm..." Elizabeth bit her lip. "How do you feel about him?"
"George? I don't like him."
"Any particular reason?"
"There are a lot of reasons I don't like him ... he's essentially a wretch."
"I see." She nodded, then leaned against the piano as Hugh began playing another Beethoven selection.
Halfway through the piece Elizabeth raised up to stretch her back and was startled at the sight of William standing in the doorway with his eyes intently fixed on her. She said nothing, only met his earnest gaze with a contented smile, then returned her attention to Hugh as he finished the piece.
"Excellent." William clapped his hands as he entered the room, approaching the piano on the opposite side of Elizabeth. "I've been looking for you both." He glanced briefly at Elizabeth before turning to face his son. "I never expected to find the pair of you hiding upstairs."
"All right, Dad?"
William inclined his head. "Shall we all return to the ballroom to join the party?"
"I'd rather not." Hugh stood to stretch his limbs. "It's pretty late - if it's okay with you, I'd like to go to bed."
Checking the time on his watch, William noted that it was after midnight - the ball would be over in less than an hour. "That's fine, Son." He patted Hugh on the shoulder. "Thank you for joining me tonight."
Reaching out, Hugh quickly embraced his father, surprising William. "Good night, Dad."
"Good night," William replied as he watched his son leave the room, then turned to face Elizabeth with a puzzled expression. "That was my son, wasn't it?"
Elizabeth laughed softly, then slowly moved around the piano toward William. "I believe it was."
"What have you done to him? He's hardly the same boy."
"Nothing, we've only been talking."
Stepping closer, William encircled Elizabeth in his arms. "I think you've bewitched him." He pulled her tightly against him, breathing in her scent. Just as you've done to his father.
As he tightened his hold Elizabeth slipped her arms around William's waist, resting her head on his shoulder. I could get used to this, she thought as her body relaxed against his. But I really shouldn't. Releasing her hold of William, she moved to break free from the embrace, but William still held her tight.
"Are you going somewhere?" he asked.
"You said you wanted to get back to the ballroom."
"I did?" William kept his arms around Elizabeth, but loosened his grip allowing her to make eye contact with him.
"Yes, you did."
"I don't know what I was thinking. Why would I want to be in a noisy room full of people when I could stay up here?" He traced his thumb along the curve of her cheek. "Alone with you." Bending down, William gently pressed his lips to Elizabeth's.
Closing her eyes, Elizabeth savored the feel of his kiss as William tenderly, even lovingly, caressed her lips with his own. Rising up on her tiptoes, she pressed closer, increasing the depth of the kiss. William met her eagerly at first, then groaned softly as he pulled away.
"Elizabeth, love, as much as I'd like to stay in here alone with you..." He sighed heavily. "I really don't think we should."
As she rubbed her palm along her cheek Elizabeth could feel the warmth of her blush. "I think you're right." She took a step back, then looking into his eyes moved forward to place another kiss on his lips, and as she pulled away she suppressed an overwhelming urge to say 'I love you.' Elizabeth inhaled deeply. "Let's go downstairs."
William draped his arm across her shoulder, and silently led Elizabeth out of the room, wanting to speak, but not really certain what to say. You can't just walk along without speaking. You need to say something to her, he badgered himself. What should I tell her? I'm sorry? I love you? They continued on in silence as William struggled, wondering what he should say or do.
As they walked down the dark corridor with only the light of the moon filtering through the sheers, William suddenly stopped, and taking hold of Elizabeth's hand headed toward one of the windows that lined the long hallway. He pulled the drapery aside and once again set his arm around Elizabeth's shoulder, drawing her to his side.
"I want to thank you, Elizabeth."
"Thank me? Why do you want to thank me?"
William sat down on the window sill, holding Elizabeth's hand as she stood before him, moonlight flooding her face. "You are an incredible woman."
Elizabeth's eyes widened as she bit her lower lip, but she said nothing.
"You're wondering where that came from..." The corners of William's mouth curled up. "I've been thinking about this quite a lot ... believe me, it's not just a random remark." He raked his hand through his hair. "Ever since I met you ... I don't think I've ever met a woman like you before, in fact, I know I've never met anyone like you." He gripped her hand tighter, stroking his thumb across her soft skin. "I want to thank you for being so wonderful ... last night, sitting on the garden wall ... you have no idea what you do for me, and I want you to know how much I appreciate you ... thank you, Elizabeth."
Stunned by William's words, Elizabeth edged forward, taking a seat on the sill by William's side. "I don't know what to say..."
"You don't have to say anything." William shifted to face her. "I didn't tell you to elicit a response from you."
"I know ... I know you wouldn't do that ...William, thank you." Elizabeth wiped the tears from her eyes. "Thank you ... that means a great deal to me ... especially coming from you."
Reaching into his coat pocket, William retrieved his handkerchief and handed it to Elizabeth. "I didn't mean for you to cry."
Blotting her eyes dry, Elizabeth smiled at William. "It's okay. I'm all right."
"Truly?"
"Truly ... I just have this habit of getting teary whenever someone gives me such a wonderful compliment ... especially when that someone is an important person in my life."
"Thank you, Elizabeth."
Elizabeth wagged a finger at William. "Now don't start that again, I've already cried enough tonight."
Without another word, William shifted over and took Elizabeth in his arms, and the couple sat quietly holding each other in the moonlight until the sounds of the music drifted upstairs, reminding them that they had been en route to the ballroom.
"We'd better hurry," William said as he rose from his seat on the sill. "You do realize that I've only danced with you once this evening." He helped Elizabeth up. "That will never do."
"I'm in complete agreement with you."
William's dimples appeared as he smiled broadly. "Well then, my dear, shall we dance?"
With arms linked, the pair hurried downstairs to the ballroom, stopping only to greet Charlotte and Collins as they passed them in the hallway.
On the dance floor William took Elizabeth's hand and pulled her close as the music started. William seemed to have a spring in his step, a lightness that buoyed him as he held Elizabeth in his arms, and as they danced he began to hum the tune of the song, much to Elizabeth's amusement.
The couple danced in the center of the room, oblivious to any of the others on the floor. Elizabeth felt lightheaded as she shifted and swayed to William's lead, enjoying every sensation of their bodies in motion.
"With each word your tenderness grows, tearing my fears apart..." William's voice sounded low in Elizabeth's ear, causing her to pull back to look him in the eye.
He grinned when he saw the expression on her face, then drew her closer and continued to sing. "And that laugh that wrinkles your nose ... touches my foolish heart." William nuzzled against her ear. "Yes, you're lovely ... never, ever change ... keep that breathless charm...won't you please arrange it? 'Cause I love you ... just the way you look tonight."*
* The Way You Look Tonight, Dorothy Fields