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Chapter 10 - Charity And Pudding

[...]

Peter was exhausted after being awaken from his sleep in the middle of the night by a telephone call. There had been another murder. He and his lieutenant had been up all night to question witnesses and oversee the forensic team who investigated the murder scene. No fingerprints, one foreign hair.

He had called a meeting at 8 am at the police station, giving him time for a quick coffee in the privacy of his office. After a heavy night like this, after which he found himself questioning the goodness of the human kind, he took respite when he saw the door to his office.

"DI P. Udding" it said.

He had worked long and hard to get promoted to Detective Inspector. The name he had gotten used to by now. Indeed his parents must have been high on something when they decided on a name for their son. Epidural had probably knocked all sense out of his mother and his grandfather had almost certainly recommended a few glasses of whiskey to his father to calm the nerves. Nothing so bad you would think, naming your child Peter. Indeed not, but it is highly advisable to consider the last name of the child when choosing a first name. Obviously they had not. The name Pudding would be his for the rest of his days.

[...]

Thomas was smirking when Darcy walked into Pemberley House's library.

"Finally found yourself a satisfying chick-lit Thomas?" Darcy said grinning.

"Ha-ha. Not exactly. I was just laughing about something Lizzy wrote. Pudding!"

"Pudding?" Darcy asked looking over at Thomas with a very curious look on his face.

No answer came from the middle-aged man who had been occupying his library for the last three hours.

"Charles, Emily here."

"Emily, hello. It has been ages!"

"Almost two years I believe, isn't it?"

"At least! So, to what do I owe the pleasure of this phone call, my dear old friend?"

"Can't an old fried just call and ask how her former finger-paint buddy is?"

Charles and Emily had known each other since nursery school. Their parents had hoped they would stretch their friendship to something more over the years, but they had always considered each other as just friends.

"Emily, I have known you since we were both in diapers, and have learned the hard way that you never beat around the bush. What's up?"

"Ah Poodles, still a bit sensitive I hear?"

After a few laughs Emily explained the reason of her phone call. She was one of the main organizers of a charity event, to raise money for proper education for children in third world countries. She had heard through the gossiping ladies of London that Charles had acquired a beautiful estate in Loversall, and she was in need for a venue for her charity event.

"I am afraid Caroline stretched the size of the place a bit, Emily."

"I assumed the three butlers were a bit over the top, but the ballroom in Chattersworth House is also imaginative then?"

"She told you that?" Charles replied in surprise.

He assured her that the house was grand, but no way as grand as that. And that he would love to help her out, but that a ball there for 200 people was really undoable.

"But I can ask a friend of mine to help out. You remember Darcy, right? I am sure he would love to do something for the good cause."

And so the annual charity ball of "Education is our Obligation" took place at Pemberley House. Next to dancing, there would be an auction of donated articles or services. Charles had contacted all his friends in the sports business, to induce famous sportsmen to contribute something to the auction. He ended up with several signed sweaty shirts, golden tennis balls and promises of master classes. Darcy had promised a substantial donation on behalf of Pemberley Books and Press, in addition to several first edition books from his own collection.

Charles had invited Jane to come along with him, and pressed Darcy to ask the same of Elizabeth. Darcy imagining Elizabeth to be uncomfortable with such a specific invitation, decided to invite the whole Bennet family and the Fitzwilliam's to Pemberley House for the weekend.

Consequently Friday evening brought Thomas, Jane, Elizabeth, Charles, Caroline, Richard and Charlotte to Derbyshire.

They had all seated themselves in Charles' car. Thomas Bennet sat in the front doing an imitation of Hyacinth Bucket in Keeping Up Appearances.

"Watch the pedestrian."

And Charles falling into his role of Richard the driver easily. "The pedestrian is on the pavement, Hyacinth, darling."

After some roaring laughter from both men in the front and Jane an Elizabeth in the back seat, Jane and Elizabeth thought to do their own bit of acting.

"We shall be such a merry party on the journey to Derbyshire!" Elizabeth begun imitating Lydia. After a few moments of silence, she cried: "Kitty,

you are squashing my bag!" [1]

"I can't help it, you should have put it in the trunk, there isn't room for it here!" [1] Jane cried, pitching her voice just like their cousin Kitty.

"I dare say there would be room enough in this grand vehicle for both our dear cousins to join us" Thomas commented. "Perfect imitation though girls!"

At last they reached a small sign welcoming them to "Pemberley". The Bennet's having no idea that Pemberley was such a large estate wondered whether they would reach the house before dark. [1]Charles assured them that they would. He stopped the car as soon as the house came into view. It was a large, handsome, stone building, standing well on rising ground. The Bennet family in the car was speechless (an event that occurred only rarely).

Jane being the first to come to her senses said:

"What a beautiful place! It must be more than 200 years old!"

Elizabeth agreed. "Very beautiful indeed. It fits William perfectly."

Thomas had left the library to go and talk to Mrs Reynolds. Thomas had taken an instant liking to the woman, and loved to hear all the old tales concerning the Darcy family, while savouring on her homemade cookies.

Darcy couldn't take his eyes of the manuscript Thomas had left lying on the side table of his library. He tried to read the words upside down, admonishing himself for his actions. He was a grown man and he was in his own house, he could do as he pleased! But he didn't want to run the chance of Elizabeth catching him reading her work again. She had been furious! Still he was terribly curious. He remained in his seat, craning his neck trying to turn is head upside down when Thomas walked in carrying a cup of tea and a few cookies.

He felt as if he was five years old again, caught by Mrs Reynolds breaking small pieces of a freshly baked apple pie.

"You can read it if you want. I am sure Lizzy wouldn't mind."Thomas said offering Darcy the manuscript.

I am not so sure of that myself! he thought. But he couldn't resist such an offer. He took the papers and settled in his chair. Thomas picked up another book and the two of them spend the following two hours reading. At least that is what Darcy thought. When he had finished the story, he watched his companion, hoping to discuss it with him, but found him fast asleep. The opportunity of discussing it with someone else however arose immediately when Elizabeth walked into the library.

"Hello there!"

Instantly he felt like little Darcy again being caught doing something that he ought not to have done.

"Hello" he said uncomfortably.

"I came looking for my father, wondering if he would join me in an afternoon walk, but I see he found another form of occupation." she grinned.

She didn't notice the manuscript!!! Thank God. I AM SAVED! Just put the papers down, very gently, upside down on the table, and nobody gets hurt. He thought.

"Maybe you'd care to join me instead?" Elizabeth asked.

"I'd love to" he answered not believing his good luck.

They were strolling through the garden for ten minutes when she asked him:

"I hope you are not displeased by what you just read?" [1]

She had seen him reading the manuscript!

"No! Not at all."

"Then you approve of it?" "Very much, but I think there are few who would not approve"

"But your good opinion is rarely bestowed, and therefore more worth the earning""Thank you. I enjoyed the story immensely. With your approval, I would like to show it to Richard, he might be able to get your work published."

"You really think it is good enough to be published?"

"Well, yes. I think it would make quite a success. You have been able to secure the good opinion of your most severest critics."

Seeing the questionable look on her face he decided to clarify his last speech.

"I meant your father and I. "You father will be disappointed though that it is not from the chick-lit genre."

He earned a small laugh by this last comment.

Under many comments of the men on how women needed a ridiculous amount of time to prepare, the women of the company retreated to their guest rooms to get dressed for the festivities of the evening. On her way out Elizabeth offered:

"If I were allowed to just wear a suit like you, instead of a difficult dress I would be ready in five minutes! In fact, the dress and all should take me about ten minutes, it's the tights that neck me!"

The men laughed.

During dinner, Emily offered a warm welcome to all attendees.

"It fills my heart with joy to see that so many of you took the trouble of attending tonight. But who would not, given the temptation, hey? Thank you William for putting up with us tonight. To be able to hold this charity event at such a beautiful place is magnificent."

She paused for applause.

"Well, ladies and gentlemen, I hope you brought fat purses this evening for I declare this year's

"Education is our Obligation"-event opened!"

The charity auction proved very fruitful since Charles was very keen on buying the sport master-classes and Darcy couldn't distance himself from his beloved first editions. All in all, he had been able to "buy" three of his own books, while two went to an awfully ugly fellow named Collins. One was purchased by no one other than Thomas Bennet.

All items put up for auction were sold, and the generous buyers were warmly thanked by Emily.

"Well, with full stomachs, and empty purses I believe it is time to stretch our legs. Let the dancing begin!"

After opening the ball with his sister, Darcy looked around to find Elizabeth. He saw her in conversation with Charlotte, when the awful Collins came up and asked his Elizabeth to dance. The nerve! First HIS book, now HIS woman. Elizabeth wasn't keen on leaving her friend for the company of stinking Collins, but since Richard came up and asked his fianc‚e to dance, she felt it would be too rude to decline.

After they finished their dance, during which Elizabeth had thought it would never end, she walked to the part of the room where her father, Charles and Jane and Darcy stood.

"Enjoyed yourself did you, Lizzy?"

She send an angry look her father's way.

"Blech! The man is awful. Apart from the dreadful smell, he talked of nothing else than his mother! Lady something he called her. Luckily he was able to downsize my shoe size, otherwise it would have been a total waste."

"Yes he threatened to dance with me as well." Jane said. "Fortunately my hero here" she said taking Charles' arm, "was able to save me."

Rather abruptly Darcy left the group. After a while he came back carrying a glass of wine, which he handed to Elizabeth.

"I thought you could do with a drink" he said.

"Indeed I could. Thank you."

After Elizabeth finished her drink, a bit too quickly for proper etiquette, Darcy asked her if her feet were sufficiently recovered for another dance. Elizabeth accepted and was soon escorted to the dance floor. Unbeknown to them, they were the topic of much conversation.

"How can they be so blind!" Richard uttered while eying the pair.

"I have not the pleasure of understanding you, dear" Charlotte answered.

"They are obviously in love with each other, but yet nothing happens!"

"Yes, well I have heard ... that some men require time to collect their nerves and tell a woman how they feel." Charlotte said looking straight at Richard.

He blushed. It had taken him three months to ask Charlotte out. He would give Darcy some advise he thought. The business of love itself is difficult enough!

It was far past midnight when the last guests left the party. While Darcy was in his study putting away the cash money that was collected for the charity in his safe, and Elizabeth was in the kitchen, the other inhabitants of Pemberley House had simultaneously decided to go to bed without notifying Darcy and Elizabeth.

Darcy walked into the kitchen searching for his guests.

"It seems everyone has already gone up to bed." And for some mischievous reason of their own they forgot to mention it he thought.

"Well, I think it is time for me to turn in myself" Elizabeth said while finishing her glass of milk. "That is, if I am able to locate my bed. I got lost three times, yesterday!"

This being as good an excuse as any, Darcy offered to escort her upstairs. When they were in front of her room she thanked him for his excellent service. He wished her a good night, kissed her on the cheek and moved away.

"When are you going to kiss me properly?" she immediately covered her mouth with her hand surprised by her own speech. Oops, maybe I shouldn't have had that last glass of wine after all.

He stopped dead in his tracks and turned around to face Elizabeth.

"You want me to kiss you properly?" his voice was only a whisper.

"I would not be adverse to such a scheme" Elizabeth said a bit intimidated by the look in Darcy's eyes.

He looked away. She took it as a rejection.

"Stupid me. I thought there was something going on between us, but apparently I misjudged. I am sorry." She said while looking at her feet.

"NO! It is just that..."

"It is what?"she asked him, anticipation showing on her face.

"It is not that I don't want to. Believe me I want to" he paused looking her in the eyes, "it is just that when I start, I do not think I will be able to stop."

"Who says I would want you to stop?" Elizabeth whispered.

That was all the encouragement Darcy needed. He took two large steps forward, took her face in his hands and kissed her... properly.

1) Lines from the Pride and Prejudice adaptation BBC 1995

Chapter 11 - Awakenings

"Where is my brother?" Gina asked Mrs Reynolds at breakfast.

"I don't know dear, I haven't seen him yet. Although he is up early enough normally, he is probably tired after the long evening."

Maria Reynolds had a pretty good idea where her master was, but she had decided not to tell Gina. The Darcy's didn't know but Pemberley House had eyes and ears. Mrs Reynolds had seen the way Darcy looked at Elizabeth and was very glad that he had finally found someone to love.

Upstairs in Elizabeth's bedroom Darcy woke up slowly. He hadn't slept so well in years. He looked up to the ceiling and found it to be different than the one in his bedroom. How odd. I would have sworn I had a different lamp in my bedroom. Just then he felt the weight on his arm. He turned his head and saw a big mess of chestnut curls on the pillow next to him. A wide grin formed on his face when he remembered last night. He rolled on his side, placing his body right next to Elizabeth's, and put his arms around her. He was never going to let go. Ever.

After everyone except Darcy and Elizabeth had come down and finished breakfast, Mrs Reynolds made up a tray for two and walked up to Elizabeth's bedroom. There she knocked on the door softly, put the tray next to the door and left.

Elizabeth woke up hearing a knock on her door. She opened her eyes to see where she was and discovered she was not at home. She then remembered where she was. Hmm, that was one hell of a dream. Very vivid. She then noticed the arms that encircled her body. Hmm, those arms look just like those of the man in my dream. She turned her head slightly to see Darcy asleep next to her. Not a dream then. A very wide grin formed on her face. Oh goody!

After a few minutes of savouring the warmth Darcy's body next to hers offered, she carefully removed Darcy's arm and stepped out of bed. She opened the door and upon noticing the breakfast tray, picked it up and brought it to the bed. Darcy had woken up from the movement next to him. He opened his eyes and saw Elizabeth walking towards the bed carrying the breakfast tray. There she was the woman of his dreams, wearing nothing but a grin.

"Good morning" he said in a sleepy voice.

"Afternoon more like, but most definitely a good one!" she replied.

Unfortunately all good things must come to an end. Be not alarmed, dear reader, that the newfound love between Darcy and Elizabeth was of such a short duration. I was alluding to the weekend spend at Pemberley House. No, quite the contrary, Darcy and Elizabeth were still very much in love, and continued to be so even after leaving the shades of Pemberley.

Many months past with nothing much to report but happiness for all the main characters of this story. Of course this story would become an absolute bore if it would explain in full detail the particulars of the happiness to which the writer has the presumption to aspire. So I will not. I will therefore refrain from describing the scene in which dear Jane, in a fit of feminism, decided to ask for the hand of Charles Bingley rather than waiting for him to finally pop the question. I will refrain from elaborating on the events preceding the printing of Elizabeth Bennet's first novel; "Pudding of consequence". And I will not start to describe the woman who after 15 years of being a widower was able to catch the eye of Thomas Bennet.

No, I am fully aware that what most people want in a story is drama. And therefore dear reader, it is drama you will get... eventually.

PART TWO

Chapter 12 - The Bore And Joy Of Everyday Life

"Look at us! We are supposed to be in the prime or our lives, but we are too tired to get up and go to the bloody bathroom!" Elizabeth complained. It had been a busy few weeks for both Elizabeth and Darcy.

"Will...?"

"Yes, Lizzydear" Darcy said in a sleepy voice.

"You once said, you would do anything to make me happy."

"I did, and I will."

"Would you please go pee for me? So I can stay in bed?"

Darcy laughed. "Things that lie in my power my dear. Unfortunately I lack the capability to dispose of another's bodily fluids."

"Ieeeewwwwww" Elizabeth smacked Darcy on the arm and pulled a face. "Fitzwilliam Darcy, that is just nasty!"

"You suggested it!" Darcy countered.

"So I did." She answered.

The next two weeks found Elizabeth half time in London, half time in South Yorkshire. On the days that she didn't have lessons, she travelled to London where she held, to her opinion, endless, useless discussions about the promotion of her book.

At the same time Darcy found that he could not neglect his business any longer. The financial crisis that was no longer restricted to the United States alone, was now threatening to emerge in the UK as well. He needed to consult with his advisers what the effects on his business would be, and what actions should be undertaken to curtail these effects for now, and on the long run.

Darcy, being a private person, had always been in charge of his own agenda, and handled his own correspondence. But with the sudden pressure of business he wasn't able to see the wood through the trees anymore. After some urging of Elizabeth he had finally been persuaded to hire a personal assistant. Cherie Gourmand had come with the highest qualifications and turned out to be a pleasant enough sort of person, and was hired immediately.

While Elizabeth and Darcy were busy with business, Jane and Charles were busy in a whole different league. Jane's toddlers were certainly not aware of any crisis in the world except for Tommy having stolen Joyce's LEGO again, and Charles didn't care much for talking about "those tiresome figures" when he could spend time with his Jane. He had his people to take care of things like that.

No, their business was of a much merrier kind. They had a wedding to prepare! Since there was no Mrs Bennet or Mrs Bingley to fuss over them, they had decided against a grand wedding, and opted for a more simple ceremony with a party afterwards for all the attendees at Chattersworth House.

"Ah, Lizzy! There you are! Finally!" Jane hugged her sister.

"Jane, I am sorry. It is just so hectic with spending all that time in London for the book, and teaching, that I am swamped with work. I was just trying to catch up with school work when I saw it was already past two!"

Jane and Elizabeth had arranged to meet in Doncaster to go to a bridal shop and look for a dress for Jane. Once they had stepped into the shop, they were overloaded with questions like: "Who is to be the bride?" "And who is the lucky man?" "Oh dear, in three week's time already!" "You cannot plan a proper wedding in such a short time, dear!"

After the sales woman had shown them a few (dreadful) bridal gowns, "I dare say the lace on this...."

Please no lace! Elizabeth thought.

"Mrs Milliner, I am sure the lace is lovely, but I am afraid, I am looking for a more simple dress." Jane said.

Mrs Milliner was a bit disappointed to not be able to shower this "beautiful lass" as she called Jane in silk and lace but alas, the customer is always right.

In the end Jane and Elizabeth left the shop with a beautiful, elegant dress for Jane.

"It is very beautiful Jane. Charles will be very pleased. You will be very happy together"

"Oh Lizzy, I am so happy! Tis too much! I do not deserve it." Jane cried, overwhelmed by all that was happening.

"Yes you do Jane! Never let anyone tell you that you do not deserve such happiness. Because if someone does deserve it, it is you!"

"How was your shopping expedition?" Darcy asked Elizabeth over the phone.

"Successful. Very successful. We bought her a very beautiful dress. How was your day? Is the assistant any good? "

"Yes, I find I have much more time for actual business. Cherie oversees all my correspondence and comes running in with a file even before I

request she get it for me. No she turns out to be very efficient."

"I once knew a Cherie that I would not like to meet again. What is she like?"

"She comes with the highest qualifications."

"That is not what I mean Will! What is she like? Is she nice? How old is she? Does she have a gigantic wart on her nose, that sort of thing"

"Ha-ha. No she doesn't. I guess she is about your age, and I have heard her call very pretty by my male colleagues"

"Darcy! I thought you were a man of the world? How can you be so ignorant of these things?" Elizabeth cried, trying to sound angry. "You are not supposed to tell your girlfriend that your assistant is very pretty. I am supposed to be under the impression that your assistant is about 52 years of age and ugly as a horse!"

"Oh! Well she is, really! When I come to think of it. Quite ugly I dare say. Skinny freckled little thing! [1] You should be sorry for me that I have to look at such a creature all day!"

Elizabeth accompanied Darcy home to Pemberley after Charles and Jane's wedding. It had been a beautiful wedding. Elizabeth and Darcy had been staring at each other through the whole ceremony. And although they didn't speak about it, they both knew that they wanted the same thing, in the future that was.

After the ceremony and dinner, the newlyweds were asked to open the dancing. Being the best man, and maid of honour, Darcy and Elizabeth joined Jane and Charles on the dance floor after a few minutes. For an outsider it may have been hard to determine which were the newlyweds. Apart from their apparel of course, I dare say the bridal dress should give one a clue. But, Darcy and Elizabeth seemed even more in love with each other than Charles and Jane, if indeed such a thing was possible.

Elizabeth and Darcy spend the week after the wedding together at Pemberley. Elizabeth pupils were on Easter break, and Darcy had taken a well deserved week off. They spend their days walking on the grounds of Pemberley, playing chess in the library of Pemberley House, and indulging themselves on Mrs Reynolds delightful cooking. They had even gone late night skinny dipping in Pemberley's Lake. This of course had been Elizabeth's idea.

"I could get used to this, you know." Elizabeth told Darcy while she lay floating on her back in the water.

"I think it is rather cold to get used to. I am sure Jane and Charles are much better off honeymooning in Rome" Darcy offered. "But I dare say

their view is not as stunning as mine" he said looking appreciatively at Elizabeth.

The look was missed on Elizabeth. "Yes Pemberley is very pretty, but I imagine Rome to be very beautiful as well. I have heard the architecture to be magnificent."

"It is, but it was thinking of another's magnificent architecture". This time the look on Darcy's face was not missed by Elizabeth.

In a few seconds time Darcy found himself pushed under water. And after a bit of a playful wrestle under water the temperature of Pemberley's lake warmed up by ways I am sure you can imagine.

1) Lines from the Pride and Prejudice adaptation BBC 1995

Chapter 13 - Heavy Misfortunes Of A Greedy Beloved

"Elizabeth, may I introduce you to Miss Gourmand, my personal assistant?"

Darcy looked at Elizabeth and back again at Cherie Gourmand to see the countenance of both as they looked at each other. Both changed colour, one looked white, the other red. Cherie was the first to regain her composure.

"Lizzy. Delighted to see you again." Cherie said.

No answer came from Elizabeth, she refused the offered hand and turned away.

Darcy hurried to Elizabeth's side. "Do you two know each other?" No answer. "Lizzy, please what on earth is the matter with you?" Darcy asked her more angry now.

"Oh yes, I know HER alright! Although the name of Gourmand is new to me!" Elizabeth said cynically.

At that moment Elizabeth's cell phone rung, saving her from any further comments. It was her agent from London. There were some last minute details to discuss, if it was possible for her to come to London this week.

"If it suits you, I can come over today" Elizabeth answered. She had no intention to remain in the same house with Cherie Wick... correction Gourmand.

Over tea later in the afternoon Cherie asked Darcy in a hesitating manner how long he had known Elizabeth.

"About 8 months" said Darcy, and then unwilling to let the subject drop, added, "We met in Loversall were my friend Bingley purchased a house."

"I have been connected with the Bennet family since infancy" Cherie said.

Darcy could not but look surprised.

"You may well be surprised, William, at such an assertion, after seeing, as you probably might, the very cold manner of our meeting. Are you much acquainted with the family?"

"I find the whole Bennet family to be very agreeable" Darcy answered. His interest was piqued. How strange Elizabeth had reacted to meeting his assistant! And what about not knowing her last name? He thought.

Although Cherie Gourmand had only been in his employ for two months he felt she could be trusted. Her manners were agreeable and inviting, and she did her work well. She even offered to help out with the books of the Pemberley estate, as time for home accounting had been scarce for Darcy. He had overseen her work at first, and finding no fault, had asked her to keep the books for the time being. There had been no reason to distrust her. He had had a full background check done, and nothing had come up. Not even a speeding ticket!

Cherie coloured slightly. She would have to be careful with the story she told Darcy. He seemed to know the family quite well. I'll try to keep the slander to a minimum then she thought. Maybe play the emotional card! Yes! That will do.

"May I ask you how you came to be acquainted with the Bennet family?" Darcy asked.

"My late father", she paused here for dramatic effect, "was the best friend of Thomas Bennet." She managed tears to come to her eyes.

Darcy not aware that the tears were about as genuine as her chest, put a comforting hand on her arm.

"Please do not make yourself uncomfortable, Cherie. You do not have to tell the story if it pains you."

"No, no, it should be told, ever how painful it may be." Cherie began her story. "My late father, was one of the best men that ever breathed, and the truest friend of Thomas Bennet. I cannot be in company with the Bennet family without begin grieved to the soul by a thousand tender recollections. Their behaviour toward my family has been scandalous, but I verily believe I could forgive them anything and everything rather than disappointing the hopes and disgracing the memory of my dear father."

Darcy found the interest of the subject increase, and listened with all his heart, but the delicacy of it prevented further inquiry. After a moment's pause, Cherie continued her story.

"The late Mrs Bennet, was an excellent women, and excessively attached to me. I cannot do justice to her kindness. She formed a friendship with my mother, and Elizabeth and I were childhood friends. My late father, was next to his best friend, also the accountant of Mr Bennet. Thomas Bennet had inherited Longbourn and decided to transform it into a bookshop, although he did not have much knowledge of business. My father offered to help him out, and they agreed to become business partners. However when the business started to earn money, Mr Bennet refused to pay out my father's share."

"Good heavens!"Darcy exclaimed. "Why did your father not seek out legal redress?"

"There was such an informality in the terms of the cooperation as to give no hope from law. A short time later Mrs Bennet died, and in remembrance of her, we felt we could do nothing other than leave the area, and seek our refuge elsewhere. Since my mother is French by birth, we decided to leave England for France."

"This is quite shocking! I had never thought Thomas capable of such a thing!"

Darcy had been upset the whole evening, and only upon prompting of his sister, he related what had passed between Elizabeth and Cherie. Gina listened with astonishment and concern - she could not believe Elizabeth's father to behave in such a way, and yet, it was not in her nature to question the veracity of a young woman of such amiable appearance as Cherie Gourmand.

"They have both", said she, "been deceived, I dare say, in some way or other, of which we can form no idea. Interested people have perhaps misrepresented each to the other. It is, in short, impossible for us to conjecture the causes or circumstances which may have alienated them, without actual blame on either side."

"Let us hope that, sissy. Let us hope that."

"Fitz! You cannot possibly believe that Thomas Bennet would act in such a way. No there must have been some misunderstanding."

"I cannot believe it myself, Gina."

He had called Elizabeth to clarify her behaviour but he had not gotten much of a response.

"Elizabeth..."

Ah we already lost the Lizzydear. Elizabeth thought.

"Would you care to enlighten me as to how you are acquainted with Cherie?"

At length Elizabeth spoke, and in a constrained manner said;

"Cherie is blessed with such happy manners as may ensure her making friends, whether she may be equally capable of retaining them, is less certain."

"She has been so unlucky as to lose your friendship" Darcy said.

Elizabeth made no direct reply, and after a few moments of silence Darcy thought it wise to change the subject.

Chapter 14 - Suspicion

In a last attempt Thomas Bennet called his daughter. He had tried to address the issue with her himself, but he simply did not know how to get her to talk. She needed her big sister.

"Jane Bennet ... ehm ... Bingley" she answered the phone.

"Jane dear, how are you, have you been able to get some rest?"

"Dad! Yes I am feeling a lot better now. Who would have thought you would get tired from going on holiday?"

"Well, it was your honeymoon, I am sure you had some form of activity?"

"Dad!!!!!!!" Jane's face was starting to resemble a tomato, even though there was no one to see it. She retorted with: "How is Diana?"

This in turn made Thomas' cheeks flush. "She is fine." The topic of Diana Russell was still a sensitive one for Thomas Bennet.

"Seen her much after the wedding?" Jane asked.

"We had a coffee together. Nothing more. We are just friends Jane, you know that."

"She is much more than a friend, dad. And so she should be, if you ask me. You two are perfect together."

"Yes well... "

Jane thought it better to let the topic drop.

"How's Lizzy?"

"Well, that is what I am calling for actually." Thomas explained a bit of Elizabeth's behaviour of late.

"I will have a talk with her. I am sure she is fine. She is just very busy, with the book and all."

"You believe that if it gives you comfort Jane."

As they lay in bed that evening Jane asked Charles if he had heard from Darcy. He answered that he had spoken to him only briefly. He had heard

he had hired a personal assistant, but that he was still swamped in work.

"Would it be jealousy then?" Jane murmured.

"Jealousy? Who is to be jealous darling?" Charles asked.

"I spoke to dad this afternoon, and he told me Lizzy was out of spirits. I feared it may be to do with William."

"Have you asked her?"

"No, I haven't been able to reach her." Jane answered.

Charles tried to reassure her, as Jane had tried to reassure her father only hours before, but is was of no use.

"It is just that Dad wouldn't have called if it wasn't serious. And she seemed a bit out of spirits when they picked us up from the airport."

Jane decided an ambush was to be her tactic. Elizabeth was not answering her phone, and apparently had no wish to discuss her low spirits with anyone. So, Friday around twelve o'clock , Jane was waiting for Elizabeth at the door of the school.

"Jane! What on earth are you doing here?" Elizabeth was very surprised to see Jane waiting for her. She immediately asked if there was anything wrong, if Charles and their father were alright. It stroke Jane as odd that William was not mentioned in this row, but she assured Elizabeth that all was well. They decided to have lunch together, and Elizabeth had just taken a sip of her orange juice when Jane sprung the question on her.

"Elizabeth, what is the matter?" Jane looked at Elizabeth compassionately. She was expecting to hear that Darcy and Elizabeth had broken up.

Elizabeth looked up surprised, and after looking at her sister for a few seconds, turned her eyes back to her sandwich.

This is going to be harder than I expected Jane thought.

"Lizzy, I am sure whatever it is, you can tell me. You've got Dad very worried, you know."

"I know. I know. And I am sorry. But I couldn't tell him, Jane. I just couldn't." Elizabeth stammered.

"Dear God. What is the matter" Jane looked worried now.

After a few more moments of silence, and another "You can tell me Lizzy" Elizabeth burst out:

"Wickham!"

"Wickham?" Jane eyes became even larger.

"William hired a personal assistant. And guess who she is? Our old friend," the latter was said in a sceptic tone, "Cherie Wickham. Although she goes by the name of Gourmand now."

This explained a lot to Jane. Wickham was a name that was not mentioned in the Bennet family often, especially to their father. It was a name they would all rather forget. Jane tried to reassure Elizabeth. She ensured her that Cherie couldn't be as wicked as her mother. Surely she was trying to become a better person.

"We must not make her desperate." Jane said.

"She is as evil as her mother was Jane, and you know it." Elizabeth stated.

"What would have made her come back to the UK?" Jane asked.

"Probably robbed all of France already" Elizabeth replied dryly.

They both laughed, be it a laugh on the wrong side of the mouth.

"Will has no idea who she is", Elizabeth said turning serious again," I am afraid she.. she.." Elizabeth stammered.

"You are afraid she is stealing from him?", after receiving a nod from Elizabeth she continued, "William is an intelligent businessman Lizzy, I am sure it will be alright."

"I am not so sure. He seemed fully taken with her."

"Have you talked to him about this?" Jane asked.

"I couldn't. I was too angry." She paused, and said with a voice thick from emotion, "I am afraid of losing him Jane. I cannot bear to think of him alive in the world and thinking ill of me."

"You must tell him, Lizzy. You must. He will understand."

Elizabeth had tried to tell Darcy about the Bennet's relation with the Wickham's over the phone several times, but she couldn't. He understood the subject was not one Elizabeth was happy to discuss, and therefore put it to the back of his mind for later consideration. Business had been taking up all of his energy, and he felt he had none left to seek an argument with Elizabeth. Because an argument it would be. He was certain of that.

Determined to put the worries out of his mind for now, he dived into Pemberley's Lake. How cold the water was, when there was no one there to warm it up! He got out quickly, put on his bathrobe and walked back to the house.

"Fitz! What on earth are you doing outside in your bathrobe?" his sister asked.

"Gina! Hello to you too! I didn't know you where at home?" Darcy asked, surprised at seeing his sister at Pemberley.

"I have been here the whole afternoon. I thought I could do a bit of studying in the quietness of Pemberley." She grinned.

"No you weren't, you just missed your big bro, didn't you?" he joked.

She gave him a teasing slap on the arm.

"Fitz?"

"Yes, Gina, what is it?" he said, alarmed by the thoughtful look on his sister's face.

"Have you looked into the accounts of Pemberley lately?"

"No, I have been too busy with PBP, why do you ask?"

Gina told him, that when she had entered the office, looking for printing paper, she had noticed Cherie was acting strange. She had immediately turned off the computer screen, and had asked her, a bit too touchy what she needed and had hurried to help her find some paper. Overall, Gina had gotten the impression she was a bit too eager to get Gina out of the way. Therefore after Cherie had left for the weekend, she had checked the accounts herself, and had found inconsistencies in the books. William told her not to worry her pretty head over it, and explained to her there were always a few inconsistencies as she called them. Nothing to worry about.

Gina however did worry about it. Something was not right. How was it possible that her normally over-thoughtful brother had discarded it so easily as being normal? He seemed to have complete trust in Cherie, even after her cold meeting with Elizabeth. Gina on the other hand, thought the whole thing seemed a bit fishy. She trusted Elizabeth, and couldn't imagine her to act untoward to anyone who did not deserve it. She got the feeling that there was more to Cherie Gourmand than she led one to believe. It was time to take matters in her own hands. If her brother wouldn't act, and be as stupid as to let the love of his life slip out of his hands (because Elizabeth was the love of her brother's life, she was sure of that) it was time that the little sister came into action! She called Elizabeth on her mobile and started explaining.

Chapter 15 - Wicked Wickham

"Detective Inspector John Foster"

"John, it's Elizabeth Bennet"

"Lizzy! How are you? How is your father?"

"We are all well, thank you." Elizabeth answered.

"I am fearing this is not a social call."John inquired

"No it is not. Wickham is back."

It was time. There was no escaping it. Ever how difficult it may be. She had to tell him. It was her fault he was being robbed by Cherie. Through my mistaken pride... "Ah, there we are already! We are here Bernie!"

Elizabeth patted Bernie on the head. The dog was barking and wagging his tail enthusiastically. "Oh come out then, go and greet your friend!" she said to the dog as she opened the car door for him.

Bernie jumped out of the car and was greeted by Darcy's dog, Useless [1]. Elizabeth petted both dogs on the head, and told them to go and play nicely without taking mud baths as they had done last time.

Elizabeth walked into the house, and almost bumped into Maria Reynolds.

"Lizzy! How nice to see you again!" Mrs Reynolds said holding Elizabeth's hand. "Can I offer you a cup of tea, dear? You look rather done in for."

"I was going to look for Will, but I think I could do with a cup of tea first." She replied.

After tea, Elizabeth went in search of Darcy, and found him in his study. He had fallen asleep behind his desk, his head resting on a large pile of documents. Oh my, how she loved this man. Loved??? She thought amazed by her own thoughts. Did she love him? Oh Lizzy, do be honest with yourself she admonished herself. You are well aware you love the man. She walked over to the desk, carefully as not to wake him, and kissed him softly on his cheek.

Deciding she would let him sleep, she went to the comfortable armchair in the corner of the study and picked up the book that was left there, his probably. She was surprised to find it being one or her favourites; The Remains of the Day by K. Ish... something unpronounceable[2]. How sad Stevens had never acted on his feelings for oh what was the name of the housekeeper again?

In only a little time, Elizabeth was fully absolved in the book. She had started looking for the name of the housekeeper, and had just leafed through the last chapters of the book, when some line in the book caught her attention and she read the last couple of pages. How sad. How very sad. Being tired herself, nervous about going to warn Will not to trust Cherie, and with the still rather novel realization of her loving Will in the back of her mind, tears welled up in her eyes.

She felt a touch on her knee and looked up to see Darcy standing in front of her. He bend down and kissed her softly. This was all too much for Elizabeth to take just now. Tears started falling down her face. Darcy took her hand and sat on the arm rest of the chair.

"What is it, Lizzydear?" he asked her, wiping away the tears from her face.

"I love you" she blurted out.

Darcy smiled. "I don't see how that is to cause you pain, dearest. It is not like the sentiment isn't returned, you must know that I love you too ..., most ardently."

He put his arm around her and held her tight. Soon there were kisses being shared, and hands wandering, when Elizabeth stopped him.

"We mustn't Will, not now. I have to tell you something first." Here we go she thought.

She thought it best to get the worst over with, and therefore started her recital by telling Darcy that Cherie Gourmand was not to be trusted. Since the subject was still a painful one for Elizabeth, she hoped he would take her word for it. But he would not.

"Am I to discharge an excellent employee because you tell me she is not to be trusted?" Darcy said in an angry tone.

"Gina told me..."

"Gina called you to tell you about the inconsistencies in the accounts?" Darcy cried, cutting her off mid-sentence. "I cannot believe this. Cherie is an amiable young woman, and good at her job. On this subject, what can you have to say? It is not merely that you are jealous?" He regretted his last words the moment he spoke them.

"Should I be?"Elizabeth cried.

"Of course not! I just told you I loved you for God sakes!"

"How can I be so certain, when you yourself propose it? You seem to take an eager interest in the young woman's concerns!" said Elizabeth in a less than tranquil tone, and with a heightened colour.

"Who that knows what her family's misfortunes have been, can help feeling an interest in her?"

"Her family's misfortunes!" repeated Elizabeth contemptuously; "yes, their misfortunes have been great indeed!"

"And of your father's infliction," cried Darcy with energy, "he has reduced her and her family to ruin! And yet you can treat the mention of their misfortunes with contempt and ridicule!"

"This comes from the man, who just declared his love to me?" Elizabeth said in a hurt tone.

She saw him start at this.

"Lizzy, please, I didn't mean to..."he was interrupted.

"You have said quite enough, Will. I perfectly comprehend your feelings, and have now only to be ashamed of what my own have been. Forgive me for taking up so much of your time, and accept my best wishes for your health and happiness."

Elizabeth walked out of the room, leaving Darcy alone to analyse what just happened.

Oh my God. Oh my God! What have I just done? Elizabeth thought when she walked down the hallway to the door. I must leave immediately! Where is Bernie!

"Bernie!!!" she called in an unsteady voice.

"Bernie is with Useless." Mrs Reynolds said coming from the kitchen. When she saw Elizabeth's tear stained face she asked: "My dear, what is the matter? Come into the kitchen and have a cup of tea" she said while guiding Elizabeth through the hallway to the kitchen. "Now tell me, what is the matter?"

Elizabeth explained what had happened between Darcy and her, and declared that she had to get home.

"You cannot drive in such a state! I will not allow it! I will make up a spare room, and you will stay the night."

1) Useless is what Hector MacDonald calls his dog in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen. 2) The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro

Chapter 16 - The Real Wickham Can Only Be Revealed On Paper Of Quality

Elizabeth awoke the next morning to the same thoughts and meditations which had at length closed her eyes. She could not yet recover from the surprise of what had happened. She had broken up with Will Darcy. Over Wicked Wickham! "I should defend myself" she said to herself. Thinking herself unfit to face Darcy again, she decided to write him a letter. And leave Pemberley as soon as possible.

She walked over to the small elegant writing table in her room, took out a sheet of paper, and began. She filled two pages with her scribbling, for an elegant hand she possessed not.

Mrs Reynolds had looked at him angrily. She had not said a word, it was not her place as a housekeeper, but she made it perfectly clear that she thought him a fool to have driven away Elizabeth. She left Darcy alone at the breakfast table, alone with a thick envelope. He opened the letter to find two sheets of Pemberley's quality letter paper stained by tears, written quite through, in a close almost illegible hand. It was dated from Pemberley, at eight o'clock in the morning, and was as follows:

Dear William,

Be not alarmed, dear Will, on receiving this letter, of its retracting those precious sentiments declared to you early last evening. I write without any intention of paining you, but I feel I must address the offence you laid at my father's charge. Of what particulars Cherie accused my family I am ignorant, and can therefore only refute it by laying before you the whole of her connection with my family.

Cherie Wickham is the daughter of George Wickham and Annette Wickham-Gourmand. You will now understand she has taken on her mother's maiden name. George Wickham was a kind man, a loving father and husband, but also weak and with a mind only fit for numbers. They came to live in the neighbourhood when I was four years old.

Annette Gourmand, French by birth, was the beautiful daughter of a French tradesman who lived beyond his means. During a holiday in Bath, they met George Wickham and due to their poor English, mistook him for a very wealthy man.

Upon an acquaintance of only 3 months, George and Annette married. They had spend four years in Bath, when George's mother died. He inherited her house, and the Wickham family moved to Loversall. He was unemployed at the time, and they lived of their inheritance. My mother, having a talent for languages, spoke fluent French, and struck up a friendship with Annette. Upon urging of my mother, my father asked for George's help with his accounts.

Both men were thrown into each other's company so often that nothing less than a strong friendship could result. My father, impressed by his talent with numbers, hired him to take care of the management of Longbourn Books.

Years passed in which the friendship between George Wickham and my father grew. Longbourn Books began to flourish and my father offered to make George an official partner in the business. He took care of the financial aspect of the shop, and advised my parents on their personal finances as well. My mother and Annette continued their friendship, and although to my mother Annette was a true friend, for Annette their friendship was more of a necessity.

Cherie, Jane and I were of similar age, and therefore often thrown in each other's company. While I have always felt uncomfortable in the presence of Cherie, my sister, with her natural goodness, welcomed her as a new playmate. Together with my father I enjoyed watching our neighbours and friends, and with him as my tutor, took sport in studying their characters. The characters of our neighbours were easily discerned, but the characters of Cherie Wickham and her mother puzzled us exceedingly. The want of principle, which they were careful to guard from my mother, could not escape such an experienced studier of character as my father. While he maintained his friendship with George, he discouraged the friendship between Cherie, Jane and I.

My dearest mother died unexpectedly about fifteen years ago in a car crash. My poor father was devastated. Jane and I, respectively thirteen and eleven years old were inconsolable. Without the loving support of my aunt and uncle Philips, although suffering the loss of their sister themselves, I do not believe we would have made it through like we did. George Wickham, like the kind man he was, took care of all the funeral arrangements.

Approximately four months after the passing of my mother, we were all just recuperating from her loss, the Wickham family disappeared. Having left substantial debts with all the merchants of Loversall, the local police got involved. Since George Wickham was mainly known, and respected as a good friend of my father the police came to our house to inquire after their whereabouts. Upon being informed of our ignorance depending their location and surprise at their disappearance, DC John Foster (now Detective Inspector) advised us to look over our finances. My father ensured the policeman George Wickham was not the kind of man to steal another's money, but he was proven to be heartily wrong.

Undoubtedly upon pressing of his wife, George Wickham embezzled the money of my mother's life insurance, which as I am sure you can imagine was a considerable sum.

The police broadened their investigations, and traced the Wickham family as far as Dover but not beyond. It was thought they had left for France. My father, being devastated and unable to believe his friend had betrayed him so cruelly, argued that it was because of his negligence, that he should have kept a sharper eye on the finances himself. He took all the blame upon himself, and charges were dropped. You can imagine the state my father was in after having lost his wife so suddenly and being deceived by his good friend so cruelly.

Poor George didn't live long enough to benefit from their new, happy, financial situation. Detective Inspector Foster who has always kept an eye out for the Wickham family, informed us George died a year after their disappearance. According to police records he died of unknown circumstances, people here say he died of shame. We have heard from DI Foster over the years, that Annette and Cherie have continued their lucrative "business" of procuring money not legally their own.

This William, is a faithful narrative of all my family's dealings with the Wickham's. And if you do not absolutely reject is as false, you will I hope, acquit me henceforth of cruelty towards Cherie Wickham/Gourmand. You may possibly wonder why I didn't tell you this before, but it is a topic I am not apt to discuss, as it is still very painful.

For the truth of everything here related, I can appeal to the testimony of Detective Inspector John Foster of Doncaster CID, to whom I have related Gina's concerns about Cherie's possible illegal actions against your family. I expect him to contact you in the near future.

I truly hope, dear William, that you have not been deceived like we were.

I lack the strength to endeavour to find an opportunity of putting this letter in your hands, and will therefore leave it with Mrs Reynolds.

William, please make sure that you and Gina remain unharmed.

I will only add, God bless you.

Forever yours,
Elizabeth

Chapter 17 - To Question A Superiority Of Mind

It may well be supposed how eagerly Darcy went through the contents of Elizabeth's letter, and what a contrariety of emotion it excited. His feelings as he read were scarcely to be defined. Astonishment, apprehension, and even horror, oppressed him. He wished to discredit it entirely, repeatedly exclaiming, "This must be false! This cannot be!" I couldn't have been that wrong in Cherie could I? It is unthinkable. To have let go of Elizabeth over a lie! It cannot be! He thought.

In this perturbed state of mind, with thoughts that could rest on nothing, he tried to get on with estate business, but it would not do, the letter was taken out his pocket and unfolded again, and the perusal of all that related to the Wickham family began again. The account of her connection with the Bennet family, was exactly what Cherie had related herself, and the kindness of the late Mrs Bennet, agreed equally well with her own words. So far each recital confirmed the other: but when he came to the last part of the letter, the difference was great.

Collecting his thoughts for a moment, he thought of how he had come to know Thomas Bennet. A middle-aged man of intelligence, sardonic humour, but most of all he possessed a kindness which had reminded him of his own father. And he had doubted such a man.

Reading on, he once more stopped to think about all that had happened. He perfectly remembered everything that had passed in conversation between Cherie and himself. Many of her expressions were still fresh in his memory. How differently did everything now appear in which she was concerned! He grew absolutely ashamed of himself. Of neither Elizabeth nor Cherie could he think, without feeling that he had been blind, partial, prejudiced, absurd.

Had I been in love with Cherie, I could not have been more wretchedly blind. Could I have harboured feelings for her?

He tried to make sense of his thoughts, but there was too much chaos in his mind. He continued to read the last part of the letter (for the third time), in which Elizabeth stated her fears of him being swindled by Cherie. Of course! The inconsistencies in the books! He thought.

He immediately rose from his seat, and ran towards Gina's room.

The rest of the day was spend by the Darcy siblings in Pemberley's office where they discovered some grave inconsistencies indeed.

"Mr Darcy, Miss Darcy, thank you for coming. Take a seat" Detective Inspector Foster welcomed them.

Detective Inspector Foster was a large man in his late forties, who if Darcy was any judge of character, an ability which he never had reason to doubt until recently, seemed to be a reasonable man. His manners were not in any way to be called gentlemanly, he scratched his behind and picked his nose much too often to be described as such, but he seemed very trustworthy. A quality which Darcy at that time valued much higher than gentleman-like behaviour. As good manners could be deceiving, indeed! I might consider to leave all the good mannered behind. When DI Foster chose that exact moment to let out a burp, Darcy thought; Maybe not.

DI Foster explained Doncaster CID and Lambton CID would work in collaboration in this case, and began the interview by asking Darcy how he had come to hire Miss Wickham.

"Well, she was introduced to me as Miss Gourmand, and came highly recommended by a colleague. As is customary in our firm when it comes to hiring people for high profile positions, as which a personal assistant of the CEO is regarded, we had a background check done" Darcy said.

"Yes, Cherie Gourmand is a woman of fifty-eight, and a model of good behaviour. As far as I know, she lives with her cat and has never been in contact with the law." Here Foster paused to look at the amazed faces of the two young people in front of him. "You are not the first to have been deceived. Cherie Wickham's file, here at Doncaster CID is rather thick, I can assure you. May I ask who was the colleague that recommended her?" Foster asked.

"It was a colleague of a colleague I am afraid. I believe Miss Gourmand came recommended by a Mr Younge." Darcy said.

"Ah, Younge", he sniffed up his nose, "that explains a lot. He is her usual partner in crime, a bloody shrewd fellow that is. We have never been able to accuse him of anything illegal."

"But you have been able to arrest Miss Wickham?", Gina who had been a quiet listener until then, asked.

"Yes several times, but apart from one charge, when she was still a minor, all the charges were dropped."

"Charges dropped? How can that happen?" Darcy asked in disbelieve.

"The police cannot do anything if the exploited party of the crime decides to drop the charges. Mr Darcy, Miss Darcy, Cherie Wickham is no fool. Every single case that was formed against her was dropped, undoubtedly because she possessed some sort of incriminating evidence against the people that were ill-used by her."

DI Foster excused himself for a moment to go and yell at some poor sod for his incompetence in another investigation, and left Darcy and Gina alone to their thoughts.

When he came back, he asked after their acquaintance with the Bennet family. Seeing her brother struggle with this question, Gina answered it for him.

"My brother's best friend, Charles Bingley purchased Chattersworth House in Loversall, which as you may know, is very close to the Bennet's residence. He is now married to Jane Bennet."

"Ah yes, the former Miss Bennet is admired where ever she goes. A very sweet lass she was, not as intelligent as her younger sister though." He saw the tall dark man in front of him shift in his seat when he mentioned Elizabeth. Considering the fact that he had been told of the Darcy's by Elizabeth he assumed there was some history between the two of them they were not keen to disclose. Only a matter of time Foster thought. He would get it out of them eventually, he certainly hadn't been promoted to Detective Inspector for his good looks, he was well able to read between the lines.

After two hours Darcy and his sister left the Doncaster police station. They had been advised to keep Cherie Wickham in their employ for the time being. Seeing that she had only meddled with the housekeeping accounts and since Gina and Darcy had discovered the preparations of a much larger scheme, DI Foster assured them that she was sure to try for a greater sum of money... If she did not suspect anything. That would be vital, he had assured them. Wickham must believe that she was still in their good graces.

Darcy had not been happy with this. It was not because of the money he had lost over Cherie, it was a mere three thousand pounds, nothing to the wealthy man from Derbyshire, and neither the risk of losing more money, in which Cherie's grand scheme if it was successful would surely result. No, money at this point in life didn't mean much to Darcy. But having to keep up appearances to a woman who had cost him Elizabeth vexed him greatly. For of that he was certain. Elizabeth was lost to him.

He now understood what had happened between them. As a result of the death of their mother and wife, the Bennet family had become a very close family. Elizabeth being the strong, intelligent and stubborn woman she was, was sure to defend her family against any accusation made. He had, by giving credit to Cherie's account of her dealings with the Bennet's, questioned the goodness of her beloved family.

Yes, Elizabeth should have been more open about her family history, but the blame was as much his as it was hers. He had played the offended party too well himself. He knew very well that he was considered a proud man, but where there is a real superiority of mind, pride will always be under good regulation, or at least that was what he had thought before.

He, Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley in Derbyshire possessed a superiority of mind and had his pride under good regulation. He could not have been more sorely mistaken. As soon as Elizabeth had informed him his employee was not to be trusted... No! Even before that he was somewhat annoyed with her for advising him, him, Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley, to hire a personal assistant. She had been right of course, he should have hired a personal assistant long ago, but to be told how to handle his business affairs by her, a person so wholly unconnected with the business, was not to be borne!

Given that Darcy was having a moment of total honesty with himself, it seems inevitable that he would also consider his having been so totally incapable of recognizing Cherie Wickham's true character. He had been blinded by what a remarkable handsome appearance and the appealing figure of a woman could bestow. Yes, Cherie Wickham was a beautiful woman, he would not deny that. He had been flattered by her flattery. But she had nothing to Elizabeth, his Elizabeth.

Chapter 18 - The Dramatic Downfall Of A Hideous Flowerpot

Spring seemed to be making its way for summer when Elizabeth and Bernie drove up the drive of the Bennet's residence. The air was filled with the sounds of humming bees and fragrances of the roses full in bloom. It was an absolutely beautiful day, but the mind of Elizabeth Bennet did not seem to register it. On the contrary, it could have rained buckets and she wouldn't have noticed a thing.

She opened the door to the living room, where she found her father, sister and Charles in cheerful conversation.

"Lizzy, you are back early!" her father greeted her, "finally had enough of your handsome..."

"Dad!" Jane interrupted him. She had seen the blank expression on Elizabeth's face.

Elizabeth greeted all three with a quick peck on the cheek, declared herself to be terribly busy and left the living room for her study. There she sat a full half an hour staring at the desktop of her computer screen, that showed a picture of Darcy and herself dancing close together at Jane and Charles' wedding.

One might have expected that more trees would have to be cut down to supply for the tissues she would need in this situation, but that was not the case. Elizabeth Bennet did not shed a tear. Her afternoon was spend in a more productive manner, she was catching up on her correcting work.

Was is just her, or were grammar school students just so stupid? She was emptying out another red pen on some poor boy's essay and mumbling about the incompetence of her students when Jane came in with a cup of tea.

"Is she going to stay in her study all day?" Thomas said.

"Jane, has gone up with a cup of tea, I dare say she will get to the bottom of this." Charles answered his father in law.

"To the bottom of what?" Thomas asked, "Is there some sort of problem then?"

"Well, I have heard from Jane that Darcy and Elizabeth were having some ... well ehm... issues."

"I had never expected Darcy to be such a squeamish youth!" he said with a smile

"He isn't, he isn't", Charles defended his friend, "it is just that there was this other person who came and...." Although married to his daughter for some time now, Mr Thomas Bennet was still somewhat of a mystery to Charles. Was the man in earnest, or just making a joke?

"He cheated on her?!" Thomas asked with a surprised face. "I will not have anyone insult my Lizzy like that! Who does he think he is? So what if he is so handsome and rich... no daughter of mine will be so ill treated!" Thomas, feeling anxiety since his daughter was apparently in distress, made a speech that could have surpassed one of his sister in law Philips suffering from her nerves.

Charles tried to calm his father in law down, and assured him that Darcy would never ever cheat on anyone, let alone on Elizabeth.

"Ah Jane, come in. You should take a look at this, it is just ridiculous what the boy writes!" Elizabeth said, patting a chair next to hers for Jane to sit down in.

Jane took the paper from Elizabeth's hands and after reading the first page she said: "I don't see what's so very wrong with this, Lizzy. He obviously didn't get the whole point of the book, but he is entitled to his own opinion" Jane argued.

"Jane, he is trashing one of the greatest books of our time!"

"Dearest Lizzy, I know Brave New World [1] is one of your favourites, but not everyone has to share your opinion. Could it be that you are a bit harsh on this boy?" Jane asked

Elizabeth looked Jane into the eye for a long time, and then said in a voice thick with emotion: "Maybe I am."

Jane moved closer to her sister, and pushed a few wayward curls behind Elizabeth's ears. "Now, little frizz head, tell me what's wrong. "

Elizabeth described all the happenings of the day before to her sister, and finally it seemed that the trees would be in danger after all.

The moment Jane came down the stairs she was halted by her father and husband who inquired after Elizabeth.

"Will she come down?" her father asked.

Jane replied in the negative.

"What has happened?" Charles asked.

Jane steered them to the living room, where after they had all taken a seat told them:

"It seems Lizzy and William had a rather..." here she paused to look for the right word, "... intense argument."

"Intense? What was it about?" Charles asked concerned for both his sister in law and his best friend.

Jane was silent for a moment, and then reaching for her father's hand said: "Dad, I am sorry to tell you this, but the truth will come out sooner or later, and I'd rather it be sooner." Seeing the worried look on her father's face she gripped his hand more firmly, deciding it was best to get the worst over with she begun. "It seems our paths, or rather, Lizzy and William's paths have come to cross with Cherie Wickham's." She heard the deep intake of air of her father and related the whole story.

"I will go to see Darcy immediately" Charles rose from his seat. "It is obvious this all has been an unlucky misunderstanding."

"No Charles", Jane said stopping him, "I think we should just let them be for a while."

She looked at her father who had not yet uttered a word.

Thomas Bennet was a kind man. He had his moments of teasing and cutting statements, but he had a mild temper (forgetting the mild fit of nerves earlier). It was therefore to their great surprise when Charles and Jane saw Thomas Bennet getting up, throwing open the doors that led to the garden, stepping outside and closing them gently before roaring out an oath and kicking over one of the flowerpots that stood there on the patio.

Jane hurried outside followed by Charles and asked her father is he was alright.

Thomas having overcome his initial anger answered with one of his usual dry remarks: "I have been looking at that hideous flowerpot for years now, I am glad it is finally out of the way."

Jane smiled at her father and looked down at the ravage that was once the flowerpot. She kneeled down to pick up some of its pieces when a thought struck her.

"It was a gift from the Wickham's" she murmured.

"Yes, a nasty looking flowerpot to remind us of an even nastier family. Fitting, don't you think?"he remarked.

Before the trio knew what was happening, Elizabeth stepped onto the patio, walked to the remaining flowerpot, picked it up and threw it down full force. It broke into a million pieces when it came in contact with the floor.

"You taught me never to leave a job half done." She said to her father. Upon seeing the shocked looks on the faces of her father, Jane and

Charles Elizabeth said laughing: "There were two of them".

Jane, Charles and Thomas joined Elizabeth laughing.

"Indeed there were Lizzy. Very sharp of you , dear." Her father said, patting her on the back.

1) Brave New World by Aldous Huxley