Elise was so tired she didn't know how she was going to fight the crowds much longer. The Art Institute was jammed with people, literally wall-to-wall, attending the overwhelming Monet exhibit before the incredibly breath-taking artwork moved on to another lucky city. "At least I got in," she thought, as someone stepped on her foot, "thousands were turned away. Now if I can just manage to get back out again." She could barely see the ornate main entry that led to freedom and Michigan Avenue. "And when I do get out, there'll be a half-hour wait for a bus, no cabs will stop, and 40 mile-an-hour winds'll be blowing me to kingdom come," she grumbled to herself. "Ow!" she yelped, as another Neanderthal tried to break her toes.

A masculine voice quite near her said, "Do forgive me, miss, I am terribly sorry," and she recognized the English accent immediately.

"Ooh, I love that voice," she thought, and paid no more attention, now anxious to make her escape, go home, and maybe make a big pot of soup, hoping it wouldn't snow until later, much later.

"Pardon me, miss? I do hope I haven't hurt you," and Elise glanced around a bit, looking for the source of that accent.

"Geeze, it's addicting," and realized it came from the man on her right, and he was addressing her. "He's good-looking, too, behave yourself, girl!" she laughed to herself, and mumbled to him, "No problem," and trying to move forward, almost fell into him.

"I'm sorry, what did you say?" he asked, as he helped her keep her balance.

She spoke up, "I said no problem, no harm done, I'm fine, thank-you-very-much, I just want out of here, okay?" and then laughed, at herself and at his expression.

"I am amazed. You said all of that? I must get my hearing checked," and he turned and spoke to someone else, but Elise couldn't see, then suddenly they were moving, Mr. Killer-Accent took hold of her hand, and before she knew it, they were out on the steps which were still being guarded by those majestic lions, in cold air under a midnight blue sky, on one of those nights that makes you realize why you put up with all the hassle and the hustle, because sometimes Chicago is simply so beautiful it hurts.

Elise took a deep breath as she looked up at the night sky. It was crisp, not yet snowing, a strong breeze coming in from the lake. "Still pretty clear. Hope I can make it home before it gets bad," she thought. "Traffic will be a nightmare," and she sighed. A discreet cough startled her back to awareness of the man standing patiently near her, and she realized he'd been staring at her. "Way to go, Elise, act like a totally mindless.." she thought, but turned to him and instead said, "I don't know how you did that, and frankly I don't care, but thank-you. I was beginning to wonder if I'd be stuck in there 'til dawn," and she extended her hand to say good-bye.

He took it, saying, "May I offer you a lift? Forgive me, my name is William Darcy, and..."

Elise interrupted him, "Thanks, no, I don't take candy or rides from strangers. No offense. Hope you enjoy Chicago," and she gave him a brief smile, turned, went down the steps, and headed north on Michigan.

Darcy spoke to his best friend as he watched her leave. "She never gave me her name," he said with some regret. "If she is any example of a typical Midwesterner, I believe our visit here will be very..." and he trailed off as the limousine arrived, blocking traffic in two lanes.

"That's for us," Charles grinned, "Let's go."

The limo also headed north, and it wasn't long before Darcy spotted a familiar figure holding onto a lamppost as well as her hat, long wool coat blowing wildly around her, laughing into the wind. "Pull over, driver, now!" and before the vehicle stopped he was out of it, just in time to catch the hat as it flew off of Elise's curls, and her hair went flying as well.

"I believe this is yours," he said as he handed it back to her.

"Well, not much chance of it staying on now. Hey," she exclaimed in a nervous voice, "you'd better not be following me, Mr. Whoever,"

"No, no, we're on our way back to our hotel, and I thought I, you, um, could use some assistance?"

"Thank-you for saving my hat, but I already told you." She turned and began walking. "At least let me see you safely into a cab, Miss..." She looked at him, but said nothing. "Would this be acceptable? I'll walk with you to a place of your choice, you'll call a cab, won't even tell me your name, and when I return to England I'll be desolate."

"How long?"

"How long what?"

"For how long would you be desolate?"

"As long as you like. What do you feel is an appropriate length of time?" Finally she looked at him, and he saw she was holding back her laughter. "Oh, do laugh, I'd love to hear it again," he thought, as she said,

"I have to admit you're persistent. Well, I suppose I can't stop you from walking down the street, but I'm warning you, it's a hike."

"I like hikes."

The limousine had been crawling along beside them the entire time, and now a rear window was powered down and a voice called out, "Darcy, I need to get back to the hotel, my wife will be calling shortly!"

"My friend is a newlywed, he's only been married about two months, and.."

"My God, what's his name?" asked Elise excitedly. "What?"

"Learn the language, what is his name?" she asked again, precisely pronouncing each syllable.

"Charles Bingley," and they both said the last together.

Darcy's eyes went wide with surprise. "Do you know him?"

"Never met him before in my life, tell him to get out of the car." He decided to comply, although the thought crossed his mind that he had been attracted to a lunatic.

"Bingley, a moment, please," and Darcy waved for his friend to join them.

Elise was desperately searching through her purse, and triumphantly came up with an envelope in her gloved hand, holding it tightly against the gusting wind. As Bingley approached, an incredible smile was given to him, and she said, "I believe you'll recognize this," and handed him the letter.

He frowned, looking at the envelope, and then beamed at her, "Elise Bennet, we finally meet!" Darcy was stunned; he'd been hearing her name for weeks before making this trip, and this woman before him was the relative and dear friend of Jan Bingley.

"It's wonderful to meet you, Cousin Charles!" and turning to Darcy, "Well, it seems we're not exactly strangers after all, so I'll take you up on that ride. Charles, my cousin Jan won't appreciate you missing her call, even if it is because of me, so in, move, go," and laughing again, almost lost her hat a second time.

Part 2

They headed north, over the Chicago River and past the Wrigley Building, a work of art in itself, beautifully lit and seemingly aware of it, so serene it appeared. The wind was whipping in now, causing huge waves to pound the beaches along Lake Michigan, audible even inside the vehicle, and large fluffy snowflakes were already making an appearance. Elise was surprised, "I really thought it would hold off for a while. Lucky for me I discovered we're related, I'd never get a cab in this weather, and would be walking all night! Not a good thing to do. So, Charles, how long is your stay, will you have any free time? And you have to tell me all about Jan!"

They had an animated discussion, and she discovered they would only be in town for another few days, and likely to be tied up most of the time. Before they reached the Drake Hotel, Elise had talked them both into dinner at her place the following evening.

"Do you like Italian?"

"Oh, who doesn't?"

"Great, I'll make you my killer lasagna, nothing to be implied by the name, it's just an expression," she laughed upon seeing their reaction. "You really have to pick up an American slang dictionary on your next visit!"

"I'll see you tomorrow evening, Elise, it was great running into you like this, although of course I was going to call..."

"Will you get going already? You'll miss your wife! See you, 'bye," and waved Charles away as he ran from the limo to the hotel lobby.

Darcy remained to see Elise safely home, and she turned to him. "I forgot to point out the Water Tower as we passed it, have you seen it?"

"Briefly. I really haven't had much time to see anything of the city, to my regret. But we may have an evening or two free before we leave. If you're willing, and have the time, of course, perhaps you could show us a spot or two?" Please say yes, or just keep inviting me to dinner, we don't have to go anywhere... he was thinking, but his appearance remained neutrally polite.

"I'd love to, but my tastes may not match what you'd consider a fun evening. I'll try and come up with something, but if you have a miserable time, don't blame me, 'cause you were the one to ask!" she warned him.

"I'm sure it would be impossible to be miserable anywhere you were present."

"Ooh, how nice! Well done, Mr. Darcy, I think I may like you!" and she grinned at him.

That embarrassed him, which amused her greatly, but he said, "That would be an honor, I'm glad of it, Miss Bennet."

"Sorry, bub, you just lost a point. No more Miss Bennets around me, it's Elise, or I withdraw the honor!"

"Then please call me William."

"Much better."

The snow was falling heavily now, the wind moving great white curtains of it as they drove from Michigan to Lake Shore Drive. The lake was a fury, angry about something, and taking out it's mood on the shores. "Will you look at that? It's amazing!" and Elise stared out the window at the surf. Darcy was entranced by her, and didn't really care to look at anything else, but he obligingly took in the sight.

"Just how bad is this storm to be?"

"I haven't heard a forecast since this morning, maybe you could ask the driver? This really isn't typical, even for our winters." The news wasn't good: a foot or more of snow in the next day or so, with more coming in from Canada. "Get the E.R.s ready, folks, it's heart attack time," Elise said grimly. She explained, not knowing where he lived and whether he had any experience with large winter storms. "People get all worked up, and if they don't have a snow-blower they go out and shovel it all by hand, and don't take breaks, they don't rest properly, and the stupid fools go and die on you." She had been getting angrier with each word, and let out a breath, trying to calm herself.

"She gets this agitated over the foolishness of others?" Darcy was thinking, but was corrected by her next words,

"I'm sorry, my father did that, he was a casualty of a Chicago winter and his own... it's been over five years already, and I'm still angry about it. Sorry," and she went quiet.

"Don't apolgise, it's perfectly understandable. A needless death is tragic. I'm sorry for your loss."

"Enough of this, I didn't mean to bring it up, it just sort of popped out. It's a bad habit of mine, I generally tend to speak my mind, then spend large chunks of time regretting my big mouth," and she smiled at him, good humor restored, and he stared at her lips, thinking he would only regret them if he was never able to kiss them...

"Almost home, just a bit further up Sheridan Road," she said.

"Are you allergic?"

"I beg your pardon?"

"Now I know that was in plain English. Do you have any allergies?"

"None of which I am aware. May I ask why you'd like to know?"

"Because you can't come for dinner if you're allergic to cats. I have a cat. Oh, I forgot to ask Charles, do you know if he's allergic? Some of my friends are, badly, and I try to remember to ask, oh, this is it, my building is on the right. Great! Home safe, thanks to you!"

They pulled up in front of a large building, but it wasn't a modern high-rise, which surprised Darcy, but seemed to be more in the Art Deco style. "At least she doesn't live in a sterile box," he thought, then, "it wouldn't matter if she did." He got out of the car, and took her hand to help her, then walked Elise to the entry where a doorman was at the ready. He followed her in and she turned to him as she began taking off her coat. "They keep the lobby like an oven in the winter! Thanks so much for the ride, I really appreciate it, William," she smiled up at him. "I'll see you here tomorrow, if the city doesn't get snowed in!" and she walked away across the marble floors and Aubusson rugs toward the elevators as he watched, and he saw how she was dressed, in a silk blouse and blue-jeans, and thought the contrast suited her perfectly.

"Of course she wouldn't ask me up to her place alone, we're virtually strangers. Tomorrow, then," he thought with no little regret.

Darcy and Bingley arrived promptly the next evening, bearing gifts for their hostess, and Elise arrived in the lobby to show them up to her place. She was dressed in a sweater and wool slacks, but as she approached, both men started chuckling. Of course she noticed, and stopped dead in her tracks. Looking up at the ceiling, she exclaimed in mock dismay, "I forgot to change out of my slippers again, didn't I!" and shook her head ruefully. Even the guard was amused, as it was something she did on a regular basis and had come to be expected. "Well, too late, you've seen the silly things. At least I don't have to put heels on now. My house, my rules," she smiled, and led them up to her apartment.

As they approached her door both her guests began to exclaim at the heavenly scent, and it grew stronger as they entered. "I hope you like it, it's my own recipe. I just love the smell of Italian cooking," she said, "I'll be feeding my neighbors, too, they all know when I'm making a big batch of whatever. Make yourselves at home," and with little fuss she made them comfortable in the spacious living room, the drapes open to reveal the lights of the city at night and the snow still falling, though gently now.

A few seconds later there was a banging noise, and Darcy was wondering if he should mention it, or if it was just bad pipes, when Elise sighed and said, "I just sit down, and that cat does it again. She gets into cabinets, the ones that don't have those whatchamacallits on them, and then acts like she can't get out again. She knows you're here," and left the room. Darcy was looking about at the decor, trying to read more of Elise's personality, when she returned with a gorgeous grey-blue cat the size of a not-so-very-small dog, and plopped down in a chair with it in her lap. She grinned, and said, "Gentlemen, meet the Bomb!"

Charles and she immediately engaged in a discussion about her (the cat was female, regardless of the name) while Darcy tried to control his amusement. He was shaking his head at the sight of the two of them, stately cat and owner with large fuzzy blue slippers on her feet, sipping wine and content as all get-out with life in general, and the prospect of homemade lasagna in particular. "Absolutely wonderful," he thought. "I love Chicago."

Dinner was excellent, and the conversation flowed; all were having a marvelous time. Over coffee Elise mentioned some Chicago history. "I feel I'd really be remiss if I didn't bring this up, it being your first visit here. Have you ever heard of Mrs. O'Leary and her cow?" and she grinned mischievously at her guests. They responded in the negative, and she continued, "It's a Chicago myth, relating to the Great Fire," and in a semi-flirtatious lilt, recited the following:

"One dark night, when we were all in bed,
Mrs. O'Leary left the lantern in the shed,
And when the cow kicked it over,
She winked her eye and said:
It'll be a hot time
In the in the Old Town tonight!"

and laughed with delight, and both men joined in, as Darcy thought, "I'm falling in love."

As they were preparing to leave, Elise went to Charles and told him how pleased she was to finally meet him, "and I believe Jan is very lucky to have found you!" and kissed his cheek. "In case we don't see each other again because of the snow." They parted friends, and Darcy envied his friend her attentions very much indeed.

Part 3

The next day saw some improvement in the weather, and as the city didn't grind to a halt, Bingley and Darcy were very busy, and unable to get together with Elise until the following evening, though phone calls were made and returned, and much regret expressed on both sides.

On the evening they were to meet Elise at her home, with plans in place to dine out, she called the front desk to approve the visitors in advance. She was almost ready when the expected knock was heard, and she opened the door with a smile, saying, "Ready in two...".

The smile faded, and she stood in the doorway, staring. "How did you get up here?" she asked quietly, all pleasure absent from her voice.

"Hello, Elise, aren't you going to invite me in?"

"Not a chance. I'm expecting company any minute, Steven, please leave. Now. And don't ever come back." "Your company, as you call it, will probably be late. It's been snowing again. C'mon, how about it?", and reaching out, he grabbed her with both hands and roughly tried to pull her towards him.

She started yelling as loudly as she could, hoping one of her neighbors would be home to hear her, "Get your stinking hands off me, you sorry pig of an excuse of a human being, or I'll..." her tirade was interrupted as she was suddenly freed, and as she backed into her apartment Elise saw William Darcy slam the jerk into a wall and viciously pull an arm up behind his back, saying in an icily calm voice, "You need to learn to treat ladies with respect." Elise grabbed the house phone and called security, then stood in the doorway and watched until they arrived.

It didn't take very long for the "jerk", as she still referred to him, to be taken away in handcuffs, and arrangements were made for charges to be filed. Darcy had been watching her intently, and as she closed her door on the last of the policemen, he softly said her name.

"Please excuse my language."

"I've heard nothing..."

"You might. Pardon me for a minute or five," and she walked to her bedroom, slammed the door, and continued the tirade that had been so luckily interrupted, only this time the words were much more colorful and highly creative in their application.

Darcy heard very little of it, but what he did hear actually brought a small smile to his face, and he thought, "Good for you, Elise Bennet."

When she reappeared her face was flushed, but she was calm, or appeared to be so. "Better now?" Darcy asked, beginning to imitate some of her speech patterns.

"Yes. I think so. A little. Maybe not." He opened his arms to her and she walked into them, and he held her tightly for a good long while in perfect silence.

As her trembling diminished, she raised her head slightly. "He's never been here, I only met him for half an hour, and that was too long."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

She took a deep breath and began to remove herself from his embrace. "Not now. Not yet. I can't ever thank you enough for this, William..." and all he said was,

"Hush."

"Are you starving?" she asked, the thought of eating anything almost making her ill.

"I can't even think of food now."

"Good. Let's go," and she flew around the apartment getting her things together, pulling on boots, grabbing her coat. "I just need to get out of here for a while."

"No problem," Darcy said with a smile, "Do you have any idea where we're headed?"

"To get some Blues!", she exclaimed, as she sailed down the hall, Darcy following in her wake, watching her curls bounce with the energy of her stride.

The thought stayed in his mind: "I believe I'd follow you anywhere."

The limousine, which had been patiently waiting for them, was headed south along the now somewhat subdued lake for some time before Elise gasped and said, "What about Charles?" totally mortified for having forgotten him.

"I tried calling you from the car phone earlier, to explain his absence, and see if you'd mind my joining you anyway."

"Mind? Hah!" and she fell silent, but reached for his hand, and kept it in hers for the rest of the drive.

Darcy thought this very nice, especially since she had removed her gloves.

They were finally seated at a rickety table, drinks in hand, and still Elise was very quiet. They had arrived during a break between sets, and the only thing Elise had said in the last twenty minutes was, "Please let him show up tonight." As a minor commotion was heard to be going on backstage, she turned to Darcy and said with a relieved smile, "He's here," and the band finally appeared onstage, and following them Mr. B.B. King walked out, larger than life, and began to work his magic.

Darcy came to realize that Elise knew almost every song completely, but was still waiting for something, when she straightened in her chair, gave a broad smile, closed her eyes, and melted back, letting the music wash everything else in the world away, as they heard that most excellent man cry out in a voice so filled with anguish it could change stones to tears, I been downhearted, baby, "Oh, yes," and Elise took his hand in hers once more. Ever since the day we met! * Still with eyes closed, she whispered to him, "I've died and gone to heaven." A few lines later he whispered back, "I believe I've joined you." "Well," he thought, "now I know I'll follow you anywhere."

* "How Blue Can You Get", written by Leonard Feather.

Part 4

They talked about going to dinner, but neither much felt like it, and they headed back to her place as the weather decidedly worsened, turning the landscape into a fairyland of unblemished whiteness.

In the lobby a guard stood and began speaking. Darcy said, "Not now," in a firm tone which silenced the man, and they walked past without another word.

In her apartment, Darcy simply took off his coat and said, "I'm staying." Elise nodded, fed the cat, who was also quiet for a change, then got blanket and pillows and lay on the couch, her head in Darcy's lap, until she finally fell asleep. "Maybe tomorrow she'll speak more than two words at a time," he thought, and carried her into the bedroom, holding her for the rest of the night.

Darcy was awakened by a strange noise, and a heavy weight on his chest. As his eyes opened, he saw that huge cat inches away from his face, sitting on top of him, purring like a freight train, contentedly taking a bath. He smiled.

Elise was propped up on an elbow watching him, and raising an eyebrow, asked, "She didn't scare you?"

"Ah," he thought, "more than two words," and said, "No, not at all," and she gave him a smile. "How are you?"

"I need a shower," and rolling off the bed she padded around the room as he watched, and she left, dragging an enormous terry-cloth robe behind her. As she passed through the doorway, the robe trailing, he saw the embroidered image of a large colorful duck on the back of it, and began to laugh so hard he upset the cat. Elise stuck her head back in the room, sideways, and with a small smile, asked, "Well?"

He was so out of breath all he could manage to get out was one word, "Quack!" and she nodded her head, saying quite solemnly,

"Good man," and left.

She made a huge breakfast, puttering happily about the kitchen. Over tea he finally asked, though he truly hated to, "Do you mind if I make a few phone calls?"

"Oh, please, go right ahead, I'm keeping you from..." and she trailed off, looking out the windows, and gasped. "Look, look, oh, wow!" and she ran into the living room, pulled open the drapes, and with a big smile, said, "No school today!" and beamed at him.

"If she keeps this up, she'll glow in the dark," Darcy thought with a smile, and decided he wouldn't mind that in the least.

Darcy made his calls while Elise went humming around doing little chores, slippers whispering, the cat following her like a dog, until he was finished, telling her, "You are absolutely right. No school today, and most likely not tomorrow either. But I would like to get back to the hotel and change clothes."

"And just how do you propose to get there?"

"It's that bad?"

"I'm guessing three feet!", she replied happily. "I'll call guest services, okay? We'll rummage something up for you. I guess I never said this is a condominium building, we're all owners, and what we want, we usually get. Want to build a snowman? There's a decent park nearby. Do you like hot cocoa?"

"I think it would be a yes to all those questions. May I.."

She returned with fresh towels (no ducks), and dropped them in his lap. "Holler when you're ready."

An hour or so later, as they were leaving, Elise stopped at the guard desk and spoke briefly. "This afternoon, two o'clock, his office," and the man nodded as he picked up the phone.

It seemed everyone else had the same idea as Elise; the park was alive with people of all ages, and they joined some others in building a snow fort. A reporter from the Sun-Times caught it on film for posterity, which delighted Elise, in turn greatly pleasing Darcy. During breaks in the activity she related how she had met "the jerk" a few years back, and had kept her distance, always feeling there was something not quite right there. They met again recently, accidentally, at a coffee shop, and he had joined her unasked. That was the extent of their involvement. "So I think I can safely say the guy is a real sicko, and I owe you big time."

"Pizza," he said with a smile.

"You're learning," she laughed.

"This town has the no contest, not even close, don't-even-think-about-it best pizza on the planet. Bar none, period!"

"Could you repeat that, please?" And she did, exactly, much to his amazement.

"But first, I have some business to which I must attend, much as I dislike it, and I would appreciate your presence at the meeting I have arranged," she said rather formally.

"I am at your service," Darcy replied, matching her tone.

"Very good man," she smiled.

Back in her apartment, she returned to the living room in jeans, but was wearing a sleeveless t-shirt, and as Elise handed him a Polaroid camera, she stated briskly, "I feel this needs to be done, shoot it 'til it's empty, let's get it over with," and he saw the dark bruises on her arms.

"My God, Elise, I'm so sorry..."

"Please, just do it, will you?" He went to her, and placing a hand under her chin, softly kissed her lips. "Oh, how nice!" she smiled. This won't do at all, Darcy thought, nice? and taking her in his arms he kissed her again, passionately, and for some time.

When they came up for air, he whispered, "Nice?"

"Oh, dear, wrong word, I take it back, I'll have to think..." and as she dwelt on that problem, he emptied the camera, and she barely noticed.

"That's better," thought Darcy. He interrupted her thoughts with, "It's ten minutes before two."

"I'll be ready in five," and she disappeared, only to reappear transformed.

Darcy was speechless in appreciation, and his expression put a smile on her face. She was wearing an elegant black suit, the plunging neckline revealing cream lace, the tight skirt modestly calf-length; she was stunning, and quite a bit taller as well. "I dislike wearing heels, which puts me in the proper frame of mind. Since this is both a personal and a business matter, I would tend to let the personal dominate, and that won't do, hence the get-up. I love that word, "hence", don't you? It's right up there with "thus" and," pausing in her rambling, she smiled sweetly at Darcy as he raised an eyebrow, wondering what other words had taken her fancy, "quack!" and she laughed, and he kissed her again.

He thought, "When shall I ask her? It has to be different, she wouldn't enjoy receiving a standard proposal..."

There was a small crowd in the hall near the elevators, and as they approached, applause broke out. Elise wore a big smile, and poking Darcy in the ribs, said, "Bow!"

"What?" She poked him again, "Quick, bow, now!" and started shaking with laughter at the silliness.

He obeyed, and the applause grew louder as people called out their support, distress, thanks, and well-wishes to them both. As the doors to the elevator were closing a little white-haired lady said, "And the lasagne was wonderful, Elise!"

"Thank-you, Mrs. Rosings!" and to Darcy, "We're distantly related, she's such a dear! I knew everyone would hear of this, which is a shame. I don't want anyone living here in fear."

They met with the head of security, a retired air force captain, whose apologies and anger were quite sincere. There was a degree of deference in his manner toward Elise which surprised Darcy as a typed report was handed to her. "She must have more standing than mere ownership here would give..." he thought, but asked no questions, observing the meeting mostly in silence, only briefly explaining the roll he had played in the events of the previous night.

"You fired Willoughby? Now there's a good example of appearances being deceiving. But Frank? I disagree, he was not at fault, no action or inaction of his had any bearing on this incident. Please rehire him. Better yet, get him on the phone for me, please."

Darcy was intrigued. "This is the same woman who plays in the snow?" he thought.

The call was placed, with Elise apologizing to the person on the other end, explaining it was a misunderstanding, and saying, "Take this shift off, as I'm sure other arrangements have already been made, and you'll be paid for the time. Hi to Elaine and the kids," and she was done, handing the receiver back to the chief, and he replaced it quietly with a nod to her. "Oh, one more thing," Elise said, and she opened the small black purse she carried, and rifled through the photographs, choosing one, and she gave it to him, saying firmly, "I want every guard to be shown this, and told that if anything occurs in this building, if anyone living here ever comes to any harm whatsoever, I promise you, there will be hell to pay."

"Understood," he nodded.

"Thank-you for your time," and she shook his hand and exited in what to Darcy seemed a rather regal manner.

"Oh yes," he thought, heading back with her, "I'd bet on it, and win handsomely."

"As soon as I get out of these ridiculous shoes, I'll be fine, it absolutely had to have been a man who came up with these tortuous..." her voice faded as she went to change, and the cat joined Darcy on the couch, kneading him until satisfied with the effort, and curling up, closed her eyes and purred.

"Oh, wow. I can't believe it!" Elise exclaimed when she saw the two.

"What?"

"Bombur,"

Bom-ber? he thought,

"She never does that, not ever, not once has she slept on anyone but me! Great! Well done, William, she really likes you! I hate to move her, but it's definitely pizza time, we should call Charles and see if he can meet us, I'm sure the main roads are clear by now."

"I didn't tell you last night why Bingley couldn't join us, and I'm sure he won't be able to for another day or so, at best." She frowned her concern, and he continued, "He and a patch of ice met, and didn't agree with each other. I'm afraid he sprained his ankle rather badly, and will be off his feet for a bit. Maybe tomorrow he'll be able to use crutches."

"Poor Charles! We'll bring pizza to him, delivery service, that'll cheer him up. Do you know if he likes mushrooms? We can bring two, different toppings," and she went to call ahead to Gino's East. Darcy was definitely in a quandary. "How am I going to propose marriage to her? Think of something! Soon!!"

Part 5

The three were seated in Charles Bingley's hotel suite, he with an ankle wrapped in an aircast, propped comfortably up on an ottoman with pillows, as they munched away happily and messily on deep dish pizza. The arrival of Elise and Darcy carrying two large boxes, she having wrapped ribbons around them for a more festive appearance, had delighted Bingley, and he had spoken his appreciation easily, between mouthfuls.

"As you can see, I'll be fine, hobbling around tomorrow, I hope, but what have you two been doing all day? I can't imagine there would be much available with all this snow."

With a smile to Elise, Darcy volunteered, "We were engaged in some serious business, Bingley, you may even read of it in tomorrow's paper," and when his friend requested more information on this, he continued, "We put great efforts into the proper construction of a fort."

Charles looked his amazement, saying, "You, Darcy? I don't believe it! You were out rolling around in the snow? I do hope you're in the paper, I shall buy all the copies I can manage, and pass them around at home! Well done, cousin, however did you manage this feat? I am astounded!"

"I believe William's contributions were greatly appreciated, Charles, this could not possibly have been his first attempt, and he improved the appearance of it considerably. I do hope they publish a photograph, as I plan to frame it, and hang in my entry hall!" Elise replied loftily, with a sense of injury at his disbelief in his friend's abilities. They were chuckling at this, and Darcy was hoping the picture would include them both, when the phone rang.

"Guess who that might be?" smiled Charles, and it was Jan, his wife, cousin and friend to Elise.

Bingley spoke for a few minutes, then handing the phone to Elise, said with a smile, "She wants to say hello." She took the phone and wandered away a bit, chatting animatedly to her cousin.

Darcy took the opportunity to briefly relate to Charles what he had come upon when meeting Elise the night before, and her behavior afterwards. "She barely spoke the rest of the evening, Charles, hardly a word. I think she's past it, if not completely yet, she soon will be. I thought you should know why I haven't been available."

"Darcy, I'm appalled, is there anything I can do? I shouldn't tell Jan, Elise..."

"No, no, that's her decision. I have another matter of...Charles, I want to marry her," and he sat back to look at his friend's reaction to this news.

Bingley smiled, "I believe that's what Jan had in mind, man! Why do you think she was always bringing her cousin's name into the conversation when you were present? I think she wanted to embed it in your brain! Ha, it worked! Good luck, I hope she'll have you!"

But Darcy was worried, and time did not permit further elaboration. "I guess I'll have to muddle through this myself," he thought, still not having an idea of how, exactly, to go about this business.

Darcy went to his own rooms for a while, saying he wanted to check on some business matters before the hour grew too late, but that he would return shortly. Elise and Charles were free to speak of him in his absence, and did.

"He is one of the kindest men I've ever met, Charles, I can see why you two are such good friends."

"It seems to me he might value a closer relationship with you, as well, Elise, he's quite taken with you."

"You think so?"

"I think so."

"Well, isn't that nice...oh, dear, wrong word again." When he looked the question, she blushed and said, "Just talking to myself, never mind."

When Darcy returned, she noticed immediately that he had not changed clothes, and inwardly grinned, "So, he likes what I chose, or is too polite to let me know he doesn't! Either way." To him she said, "Want to see some planets?"

"Planets sound great. Pizza, then planets. I like it," and he smiled at her, and she smiled gently back.

He engaged the limousine service again, and they spent the balance of the day and much of the evening sightseeing, ending with a walk through the vast snow blanketing Grant Park. The sky grew grey, then dark, and the thousands of tiny white lights heralding the season for giving, adorning the trees along the magnificent mile, shone brightly, warming the snow, and gave their approval to the two who appreciated them so much.

They had almost reached her apartment, still holding hands, when she said quietly, "Nothing will happen tonight."

And Darcy gently pressed her hand and said, "I know," and dismissing the driver, he walked inside the building with his arm around her, wondering if she would like England very much, or at all.

They talked almost until dawn, learning more about each other in that time than some couples ever do, drinking first wine, then coffee, and Elise made them a simple dinner in the middle of the night. Her cat liked the company, too, deciding Darcy's lap to be her current favorite resting place, her purring growing so loud at times Darcy laughed in amazement at it.

"I was scheduled on a flight tomorrow, back to England..." he began, and she looked so surprised he quickly continued, "but with Charles' ankle, we cancelled, and haven't rebooked yet. I would like to prolong my stay, Elise, for you. I'd like to spend more time with you, if you're willing, or interested, or..." and he trailed off in his question as she smiled her agreement, and said,

"I'd like that very much, William. Yes, indeed. I told you in the car the first night we met I thought I would like you, and I was right, I do. Very much!"

"Like, as in nice?" he asked, eyebrows raised.

"Not again, oh, dear, this is getting difficult."

And he kissed the top of her head, and they fell asleep the way they had before, as the sun rose behind the clouds, so heavy and snow-laden it seemed you could almost, if you reached just a bit further, pull them down, wrap them around you, and walk within a piece of the sky.

Part 6

It was late in the morning when they were awakened by paws patting each of their faces in turn, Bombur meowing loudly as two pair of eyes opened to her, and Elise smiled at her cat, "Hey, girl, hungry? Okay, okay, give me two seconds, already," and she said to him, "Good morning, sleep some?"

"Yes, I did."

"How about coffee?"

"Um, I really would prefer tea, if you don't mind?"

"Not a bit, tea it is," and she padded away, cat following her most attentively.

Over steaming mugs at the kitchen table Darcy wondered aloud, "As you and your cousin Jan are so close, how is it you've never been to visit her in England?"

"I let things get in the way, any time I would really start to consider it seriously, something always seemed to come up, and I would put it off a bit longer. It's been too long, really, I should have made it earlier this year."

"Would you consider a visit in the near future?"

"Yes, William, I believe I will consider it," and she smiled at him as he drank his tea, he wishing she would accompany him, whenever he did return.

"I have a lunch date today," Elise began, and his expression betrayed some of his feelings at hearing this, "with my older brother, James, I only call him that because it tends to annoy him, and he can be so properly uptight at times it seems to suit him better than Jim, or Jimmy, heaven forbid. He's an attorney, works in the Loop, and I'd ask you to join us if you like, except I'm afraid he might construe meeting you as an indication that you might be declaring "intentions" toward me soon, and then I..."

"I'd love to join you," Darcy stated freely, "I would like to meet your brother, have lunch with you both, and he may think whatever he wishes, Elise, and it won't bother me a shred, if it's all right with you." I can't be much plainer than that, he thought, without asking her now, which just won't do.

She was looking at him thoughtfully, and came to a decision. "Fine, you'll meet him, just don't call him James, at least not to his face. It's business as well as personal, I keep an eye on some family investments, but there's nothing to go over in detail this time, we meet for more than just lunch for the big stuff."

"I don't wish to intrude if you have private matters to discuss."

"Not at all, I'm afraid I'd tell you if you weren't welcome!"

Darcy laughed at this pronouncement, and agreed not to use the name James in his hearing. "Perhaps I should mention I also manage my family's arrangements. I...we have a bit of money lying about," he informed her, wondering how she would react if she knew just how wealthy he was.

Elise giggled.

"What?" he asked. "I pictured bills scattered about the place, and thought it must be very difficult to dust," and they grinned at each other.

They went to check the weather situation on the television Elise had hidden away in a second bedroom she had made into a den, which he hadn't even realized existed before. Taken as a whole, her home was much larger than it first appeared, and he began to believe that although her lifestyle and manner did not reflect it, she might be very well-to-do in her own right, and good for her. She deserved it.

The news was not good; at least another foot of snow was expected to fall throughout the day, both airports were backed up, and emergency procedures were being activated in anticipation of it. "You believe your brother will keep your date?"

"Always," she said confidently.

"Well, I'll need another change of clothes, I can't very well meet him for the first time like this," he smiled, still wearing jeans and sweater.

"Oh, good, I get to take you shopping! Don't worry, you won't even need to put your coat on! Let's go."

There were stores on a lower level of the building, as well as professional offices, doctors, everything one needed, really. It was a micro-city, and Elise showed him other areas of the building as well, where only residents and their guests were allowed, including an Olympic size swimming pool with all the attending facilities, and a lending library the residents contributed to and maintained on their own, as interest dictated.

"I'm impressed. This seems to be a wonderful place to live, and from what I've seen of it, the city as well."

"I'm so glad you like it, William, really, as I do love it here. Maybe that's one of the reasons I haven't been to visit Jan. She seems to love her new country, and I know it would be difficult for me saying good-bye to her again."

"I like your cousin a great deal, and can easily understand your feelings. Why not live in both places?"

She raised her eyebrows at this remark, and said, "Quite honestly, it never crossed my mind! Not once! How interesting! Why didn't I ever.." and she went to dress for their lunch date.

They met James Bennet at a private club downtown; he was a tall, handsome man, approaching forty, with a reserved air about him, but cordial in his greeting, and affectionate to his sister. Elise was rather more reserved in her manner as well, initially, as specific stock holdings and various other investments were discussed efficiently, and she informed her brother of a few decisions she had made regarding certain items. It was all dealt with before the meal had even begun, and as they were served, both relaxed and began to interact with less formality. Further conversation involved a wide range of topics, and Darcy was asked about his country, visit to the States, and impressions of Chicago, and he responded with high praise for all.

It was over coffee, when things wind down and moves are about to be made to end a gathering, when Elise requested a favor of her brother. "You know I hate having to ask, Jim, but if you find the time, I was wondering if you could keep an eye on developments in a...regarding an incident which occurred in my building? I'd really appreciate it..."

"You know I will, why the hesitation? What happened, someone suing another someone?" he asked with a smile.

"No, it's a different type of matter altogether," and she handed to her brother an envelope, saying, "Only when you have the time," and shortly after this excused herself from the table.

Jim Bennet turned to Darcy, "She is never so diffident in her requests. When Elise wants something done, if unable to accomplish it herself, she doesn't hesitate to marshal her forces. Do you have any idea what this is about?"

"Yes, I do, and you won't be happy to hear of it," Darcy stated, and spoke further, though briefly. Bennet's expression darkened considerably as he heard him through, then opened the envelope. Reports, faxes, and several photographs were included, and he took in a sharp breath as he saw the latter, and swore softly. Placing it all back together, he said nothing further, though he remained very grim.

Upon Elise's return they both stood, and her brother gave her a hug and a kiss on the forehead, saying, "Of course I'll look into this, honey, take care," and shaking Darcy's hand, their eyes meeting in complete understanding, they parted.

Elise and Darcy took a cab back to her place, and en route, holding back tears, she whispered, "I hated doing that to him. I don't think anyone realizes how alone in the world we truly are, until we are without parents, and family is..." and then the tears did come, and she cried wretchedly, and he held her against him in misery, for he had no means to return what had been taken from her, wishing with all his being that he did.

He saw her into the lobby, knowing he would not be accompanying her any farther, and she said quietly, "I'm really very sorry."

"Don't be.

"I need some time alone."

"I'll call you later?"

She nodded, and he tenderly kissed her cheek, and left.

Darcy headed back to his hotel, oblivious to the beauty all around him, of the swirling dancing snow softening the sometimes harsh edges of this city, the darkened sky, the mystery and strength of the ever-present lake; his reflections would not be broken.

Part 7

Several hours later Darcy showed up in the lobby with a large bag slung over his shoulder, and asked the guard to call up to Elise's and announce him. There was no answer, but Darcy was having none of that, and it only took a minute to persuade the guard to accompany him to her apartment.

Elise answered the knock, and with a nod to the guard gave Darcy a small smile as she stepped back to allow him entry, saying only, "Hi, there." "What's your favorite flavor?" "Of what?" "Ice cream, sherbet, or frozen yogurt," and she laughed, leading him into the kitchen, where he realized her hands were covered with dirt. The table was laden with plants, potting soil, gardening tools, and the Bomb, looking like a furry Sphinx, most interested in the activity.

"Gardening, excellent pursuit. Grab a spoon," and he emptied the bag on a counter, spilling containers across the surface, as Elise, smiling broadly now, washed her hands, gave him a spoon, grabbed a carton, and popped it open. "I don't really have a favorite, it varies week to week. Great idea, William, thanks," and she took a huge bite of chocolate almond marshmallow, closed her eyes, and shook her head. "Mmm, heaven!" She did the same with another, and another, and kept going through them while he watched in amusement.

"I'm glad you're enjoying yourself so much Elise, but do you think you'll be ready to leave by eight? We have to be back at my hotel by eight-thirty." "It's six now, plenty of time. What for?" "I'm not saying. Just dress for the cold. Oh, do you have a passport?" She looked at him in surprise, but replied, "Yes, I do, why?" "Because when Charles and I leave, and that is soon, a day or two depending on flights, you're joining us, period, no excuses. Pack tonight, warm clothes. It's winter there, too, you know. Bring the cat if you like, but I have several dogs, large ones," and he sat back, waiting for her reaction.

"Hm. Well," and she took another bite. "My, my." Pause, spoonful, head shake. "I could have a neighbor take care of her..." she said thoughtfully, and Darcy breathed a sigh of relief. She's coming home with me, he thought, at least that much is done.

7a

Elise gave some vanilla ice cream to the cat, who made a thorough job of it and was affectionately grateful, then finished repotting her plants, Darcy watching her as she dumped soil around the table, shooed the cat away, and streaked her face with dirt. She started humming to herself, and he couldn't resist. With one fluid motion she was in his arms, his mouth on hers, and he kissed her so thoroughly he forgot the outside world, only knowing the feel of her, her scent, the taste of her still so sweet as she responded in kind, and he knew she wanted him just as badly.

The cat meowed, and trying to climb up Darcy's leg, effectively broke the spell. He looked in Elise's eyes and said softly, "I thought I'd let you know how I feel about you." Her breathing was deep and irregular, her voice unsteady as she said, "It's too soon for this, it's only been days..." "I know, but you're going to England anyway. It's that, or I stay here, either is fine with me. But you, my dear Elise, I believe you need a change of scenery. I think you'll like Pemberley very much, and there are a great many plants you could move about if you wish," and he brushed some dirt off her face, and kissed her cheek. She smiled, "So that's why you want me there, you need some landscape work done." He shook his head as she went to dress.

As they were leaving, Darcy noticed the new picture hanging in the entry, the front page of the Sun-Times, matted and framed, with a shot of a large group of people in front of a massive edifice built of snow. Darcy and Elise were left of center, his arm around her shoulder, and both were smiling into the wind.

They did that wonderful cliché for tourists and lovers alike, taking a carriage ride through the downtown city streets, the sound of hoofs muffled by newly fallen snow, and Elise laughed in joy as she sipped brandy, snowflakes flashing white against her hair.

Around Water Tower there was more pedestrian traffic, and Darcy called to a group of students leaving Loyola University, "When should I propose to her?" and Elise gasped as they broke into laughter and cheers, and the shouted replies were varied, but Darcy thought the best one was, "Think you just did, dude!"

He took her hand and kissed it, saying, "Yes, I just did. You don't have to answer now, unless of course the answer's yes. Take all the time you need, I'll wait for you," and she kissed him gently and snuggled into his shoulder, his arms holding her, as they headed toward the lions and the lights.

Part 7 B

Their departure was not to take place as soon as Darcy had anticipated, for as inevitably happens in a Chicago winter, the weather had not cooperated, with massive delays at O'Hare Airport making the decision to postpone an easy one. This gave Elise more time to settle some concerns, and she was well occupied with personal and business arrangements, although she had been packed since the evening Darcy made his proposal. Remembering the circumstances of that event always brought a smile to her face, and when he was not present, she would go to the picture hanging on her wall, shaking her head in amusement, and other emotions as well.

Darcy arrived, helping Elise with her cat, in a pet-carrier and not very pleased about it, (for she knew from experience this generally meant a trip to the veterinarian), and the three made their way to the lower parking level, Elise with car keys in hand, wearing a wicked little smile as she asked, "You're sure you don't mind my driving?"

"Americans drive on the wrong side of the road, Elise, I'd never manage here!" and she led him to a silver Mazda 626, got cat stowed and Darcy belted in, and drove out into the snow.

It was mid-afternoon, and after dropping the cat at her vet for shots and the animal equivalent of a passport, she took Wacker Drive along the Chicago River, heading for the Ike, westbound.

"Did you know they dye the river the most bizarre shade of green," she told him, "for St. Patrick's Day? On that holiday, in this town, absolutely everyone is Irish!" both laughing at this little oddity in behavior. "I want to see the place I'm headed for now," she continued, "once before we leave. We can have hors d'oeuvre there, as I have another spot in mind for dinner later," and Darcy readily agreed. He didn't care a whit where they went, as long as they were together.

They arrived at a restaurant in Oak Park, and Darcy was pleasantly surprised by the subdued elegance, crisp white tablecloths, and chef walking among the patrons wearing a very tall hat, indeed; but what captured his interest was the rich appearance of the grand piano off to the side, together with the ability of the musician. An idea immediately struck him, and he smiled in anticipation.

After ordering, and taking the time to express his appreciation of her choice, Darcy excused himself, went to the pianist, and engaged him in a brief discussion. As soon as he was seated again, the first captivating notes of Beethoven's "Fur Elise" delicately sounded, and the one seated opposite him beamed her delight. "Thank-you, William!" and they listened, hands linked together on the table, as the beautiful music held them in the embodiment of perfection.

It was some time later when Elise innocently asked, "So, ever hear of Al Capone?"

Part 7 C

They took a stroll around the neighborhood, Elise rattling on animatedly about the history of the area, Prohibition, the infamous reputation of Chicago politics, and the recently mourned loss of a beloved journalist who chronicled the antics of the Democratic Machine with great wit and humor. Darcy listened in fascination, and adored her liveliness, coming to realize just how much she loved this place, and the loss she would feel if ever made to leave it.

Night had fallen outside their awareness, arriving so quickly and silently they were both taken by surprise.

"Maybe on your next visit, we could tour the historic sites?" Elise asked rather tentatively, and he replied, "Absolutely," not liking the word visit at all, and they walked slowly back to her car, holding hands.

Her high spirits returned as she battled evening rush-hour traffic with the skill of one long inured to it.

"We have our own unique brand of creativity and achievement here, you know. In fact, at our next destination, sir, you may meet someone who, I believe I can say with complete accuracy, has reached great heights both personally and professionally," and it took all of Elise's resources not to collapse in laughter as she drove to the domain of "His Airness", king of his own particular court.

The restaurant was crowded, lively, and populated by some of the tallest men Darcy had ever laid eyes on, and one approached, greeting Elise warmly. She asked after his mother and sister, then made the introductions, and Darcy was definitely familiar with the name and skills of Mr. Michael Jordan. Amazed that Elise knew him personally, he wondered how that had come about. Mr. Jordan joined them briefly at their table, and the few remarks exchanged gave explanation that Elise and his mother had been involved in a public service project together, but he then made mention of Elise's private charities, she only smiling in acknowledgment.

"Great heights. Elise, really!" Darcy said with a smile, chuckling at her contented expression. "What was he referring to, when he mentioned your own charity work?" this with no little curiosity. She grew a bit embarrassed as she replied, "It's nothing, really. I take from the rich, all quite legally, and try to give some benefit to the not so rich. No big deal," and would say nothing further of it.

They retrieved Bombur from the vet, and Elise was relieved and delighted to hear that England's strict quarantine laws had definitely been revised, effective only weeks ago. By the time they left Jan's for Pemberley, the cat would be able to accompany her.

Two days later saw them above the clouds, leaving behind the incomparable city on the lake, lions still guarding the treasure of the people, under a gray sky, as the wind blew in from the north. Elise comforted herself with a thought: at the last minute, she had packed her fuzzy blue slippers.

Part 8

"I'm tired, my feet hurt, I am not going anywhere tonight, you've sightseen me to death, thank-you-very-much, and that is that!" Elise exclaimed rather crossly. "And I really miss my stupid cat!"

Jan just smiled at her cousin and gave it one more try, "You're sure? It's a great play."

"I am not leaving this house. Period! Go to dinner, go to the play, go to France if you like, send me a postcard, though, I'll sit right here very happily waiting for it!" and laughed. "You and Charles enjoy yourselves without me around for once, please! Really!" Then with a smile, "Do you mind if I mess up your kitchen?"

"Oh, Elise, what are you going to make? Lasagne, I hope and pray?" and Elise laughed again, shaking her head. "Nothing so time consuming, maybe just a pot of soup," and they exchanged secret smiles as the doorbell rang, sounding like the chimes of a bicycle bell. "I have to get one of those, I love that sound!" Elise called, as Jan went to answer the rings.

There was a commotion in the entry, and seconds later Darcy appeared carrying a large crate, wearing a grin as he placed it at the feet of Elise, who threw herself into his arms, giving him a bear hug. "Oh, you wonderful man, thank-you, thank-you, thank-you! However did you manage this? Ha! Great! Excellent!" and she gave him a loud kiss on the cheek.

"Let's just say I have friends in high places. Aren't you going to say hello to the Bomb?"

"Absolutely," as she opened the crate, "but she probably won't have anything to do with me until tomorrow. She'll pout for a while, then when she feels enough time has passed to heal her wounded dignity, she'll forgive me. I hope!" all this with a big grin as Elise dragged blue-gray fur out and plopped down on the couch, cat in lap. "I am most happy! Well done, William!" and sighed contentedly.

"I'm glad you're happy," and sitting next to her, Bombur delicately removed herself from Elise's hold and sat on him without a look at either.

"Way to go! At least she didn't leave the room!"

Charles and Jan joined them for a while, exchanging looks full of meaning, not needing words to communicate their thoughts. It was obvious to Jan that Elise was falling for Darcy in a very big way; she just needed some time to figure it out for herself.

Darcy and Elise were left to themselves, the first evening since arriving in London that they weren't in the company of others, and Darcy was as grateful for it as Elise appeared to be.

"What are you thinking?" he asked, as he saw a very slight smile cross her lips.

"I do so very much like the sound of your voice," she said, "Killer Accent, yes, indeed," and he made to kiss her, because a compliment such as this could not go unappreciated, but she fended him off with a wicked little grin, and told him, "Not now, buster, you've got work to do!"

"Oh?"

"Yes, oh!" and she led him into the kitchen, sat him at the table, and proceeded to gather every vegetable she could lay hands on.

"You've got K.P. duty."

"I beg your pardon?" as the cat curled around his ankles.

Elise slippered around the room, banging pots and pans as Darcy watched, cooperatively peeling potatoes, with a smile. They would be leaving for Pemberley soon, just the two of them, and the cat, of course.

Part 8 a

Even though both would be returning to London after Elise and Darcy's Pemberley visit, Jan was loath to see her cousin depart. It was comforting to hear a familiar voice in her new country, the Midwestern sound speaking to her of her former home, and Elise herself having been very much missed. She and Jan spent a deal of time together, reminiscing as well as discussing newer events, not the least of which was the attention drawn by Elise of one Mr. William Darcy, a topic most interesting to each.

"Elise, he is really fixed on you, which is what I hoped would happen. From first meeting him, I thought he would be perfect for you, and I still believe I'm right! So, tell me, hmmm?" with raised eyebrows, goggle-eyed.

"It's just too soon, Jan, I can't help it, that's the way I feel. We haven't known each other long enough, I can't go riding off into the sunset on a white horse after only a matter of weeks, even if..."

"Yes?" came the eager prompt from her cousin, always the good listener, "Even if?"

"For pete's sake, even if that's what I'd like to do, and end up doing, I can't do it yet!" and they both laughed at her admission, Jan very well pleased by it, and at her success in a first attempt at matchmaking.

"And how did your Trial By Kitchen work out, anyway?" Jan asked, "Well, I presume?"

"Extremely well, I was amazed! Not one objection, negative comment, nada! He even helped clean up! Straight A's across the board, although he wasn't a proficient, but with practice..." and they both laughed at her demands in what an ideal man must be willing to perform.

Jan was able to convince Elise, and by way of her, Darcy as well, to remain in town one more night, to see a particular play, saying they would be stunned by an unusual similarity of name, if nothing else. They greatly enjoyed this particular version of "Pride and Prejudice", laughing at the antics of the total toady, Mr. Collins, but both were rather surprised by the names of the main characters. We needn't detail the conversation which followed, except to make mention that they wondered if it was fate that they be together as well; or to quote a renowned wordsmith, if it was deja vu all over again, and they were happy at that singular thought.

Part 9

"You could have at least warned me!" Elise exclaimed as Darcy opened the car door for her. "This place is a castle! Lord, I'd hate to see your heating bills!"

They had only just arrived, and unusually for this time of year the sun was shining, it was an almost mild day, and Pemberley appeared radiant, welcoming them both with her beauty.

Darcy's mouth twitched at her comment, but he said nothing as he went to remove the crate containing her cat, a servant arriving to carry the rest of their luggage, and following on his heels a somewhat elegant, mature woman, dressed rather primly, her countenance annoyed.

"William, I believed you were to return yesterday! What delayed you, and are you to introduce us, or must I do that as well?" and she sniffed as she looked at Elise.

"Aunt C., I wasn't expecting to see you here," Darcy stated with some surprise, and no little regret, introducing her ladyship to Elise in a formal manner, she appearing rather more interested in his reaction than concerned with pleasing the other. Darcy had hold of the cat carrier, and as Aunt C. began criticizing the car, roads, luggage, and anything else she was able to think of, Darcy led the way in, Elise at his side, smiling in a most provocative manner, and he whispered to her, "Please, don't start anything with her!" and Elise whispered back,

"I'll be the perfect guest, not to worry!"

Darcy had Bombur removed to the kitchen, and escorted the ladies into the drawing room, Elise going immediately to a painting over the fireplace, of a lovely young woman, seated, her hand resting on a very large dog at her side. It seemed her eyes sparkled with wit, or possibly amusement, and Elise wished she could have known her.

"An ancestoress, Elizabeth was her name," Darcy said, joining her as his aunt rattled on, "there are several family legends about her antics, one of which you may..." and there was a loud cry, sounding exactly like the wail of an infant, and the impression of flying fur as the Bomb leapt into Lady Catherine's lap, who promptly let out her own undignified sounds, and barking completed the ensemble as a dog very much resembling the one immortalized stopped dead in her tracks at the sound of Darcy's voice, "Minnie, Heel!"

Bombur, deciding to seek safety in higher ground, went from Lady C. to chairback, tail twitching furiously, several times into the now somewhat blotched face of that no longer quite so dignified personage, and without a blink leapt the distance, which was well over five feet, from chair to mantel, skidding almost the full length of the polished wood surface, knocking candlesticks about, until she finally regained control of her footing.

Darcy and Elise had been immobile, but as she reached for her cat a different choice had already been made, and she took another leap, onto Darcy's shoulder, as Lady C. began to sneeze in a most vehement manner.

"You know I am," sneeze, "highly allergic", large sneeze, "to cats!" and continued in her reaction, now uninterrupted by words.

Elise couldn't take in any longer; she bolted from the room with a final glance back at Darcy, who still held the cat, and ran to the entry hall, where she collapsed in laughter against the doorway to another room, shaking so hard she feared a muscle strain, tears streaming down her face, until she was seated on the floor, no closer to regaining control, wondering if she ever would. Upon hearing the rapid tap of a woman's high-heels on the floorboards, she crawled around the doorway in an attempt at concealment, catching a glimpse of Darcy's aunt fleeing the premises, sneezing her head almost off.

With that sight, she rolled on her side and gave up, which is how Darcy found her, and when she saw his shoes she attempted to say to them, "Oh, William, I'm so sorry," but her words weren't very intelligible.

She couldn't see it, but he shook his head, "You aren't a bit sorry, and I owe you for this."

Elise tried to apologize again, but he added, "Not retribution, but my many thanks! That has to be her shortest visit ever!" and sitting on the floor, he took her in his arms, holding her until her breath came back; then he proceeded to take it from her again.

Part 10

She had unusual dreams that night, of long ago times, seemingly taking place here, at Pemberley, but with differences she couldn't account for in place and people, but they were happy dreams.

When Elise awoke, she found Bombur at the foot of the bed, paw raised as though to strike at the head of Minnie, sitting on the floor in front of the cat, tail wagging. As Elise was about to reach for her, the Bomb gently patted the dog's nose, then jumped from the bed and ran from the room, as the door was partially open, the dog following in joyful pursuit, very much liking a nice game of tag for amusement. She began a smile, then heard Darcy's voice, "Are you decent?"

"Probably not, but that's okay," as she got up, thinking a hockey jersey and sweatpants probably weren't considered decent, and her smile was full.

"I forgot to warn you, about some of the dogs around here, sorry. It's an odd story."

"I wondered how she got in here," said Elise with eyebrows raised, the question unspoken.

"No, no, I had nothing to do with it. The woman in the painting?" She nodded her head in acknowledgment, "Family legend has it that she was the one to teach the dogs here how to open doors, and it gets passed down, I'm not kidding!" he exclaimed in his own defense as she broke in,

"I don't believe that for a minute, William, come on!"

"Fine, but Minnie will probably be joining you every morning, and it's not me that's doing it, I swear. That's another thing, it's almost law here, there has to be a dog named Minnie at all times, or Jasmine, or a variation. That's Pemberley," he smiled.

It was obvious she didn't believe him about the talents his dogs possessed, but he dropped it, and she told him of her dreams, getting a distant look in her eyes, and he thought this was a very good sign.

Over breakfast they decided to tour the grounds the old-fashioned way, on horseback, and spent a few hours outdoors, the cold increasing now, but with sunny skies, and it was a nice feeling for Elise to have some relief from the heavy clouds of Chicago in winter, although she was already beginning to feel the twinges of homesickness, but pushed them firmly away, and determined to enjoy her stay. The leaves were all off the trees, the pond almost frozen, and she grinned as she asked Darcy if he knew how to skate. Pleased by his answer, they agreed to a date on the ice, if it was solid, the following day.

As they were walking back from the stables to what Elise insisted on referring to as the castle, she stopped dead in her tracks. "William? Do you know a good doctor?" He immediately became concerned, and she said, "I have to be hallucinating..." and pointed to a tree not twenty feet distant. There was an old branch lying propped up against the trunk, as if placed there for a purpose; from there a step to another low-hanging branch, and there sat the two animals who had played tag, Minnie with legs hanging, giving the Bomb a bath. "I have to be...this can not be real. This does not happen," and shaking her head, she went inside, Darcy laughing as he followed.

"I told you! It's Pemberley! She opens doors, too! Do you have something against sitting about in trees? That's prejudice!"

He led her to the library, where he poured her a stiff drink, and she knocked it back with no hesitation whatsoever.

Conclusion

They were sprawled on the couch in the library, facing each other, legs entwined, each reading a book, he with a brandy, she a glass of wine, dog and cat sleeping in front of the fire. Every now and then one would look up to find the eyes of the other, and they exchanged smiles, both perfectly content, not wanting the evening to end, wishing time could be stopped at just this moment, to hold the intimacy permanent, the ease and happiness of both preserved, undisturbed, unaltered.

But it was not to be. The housekeeper appeared, with Caroline Bingley following, she was a tall, rather gaunt woman with an air of conceit, of arrogance, and a superior little smirk, trailing a fur coat along the floor in a deliberately casual manner, dressed in a formal gown that left little to the imagination. Elise thought her a bit boney, not a soft curve to be had, and stifled a grin as she and Darcy sat up, both deeply regretting the intrusion.

Darcy introduced them, Elise having missed meeting her in London, for which she had been grateful at the time. Jan had told her some of Catty Caroline's remarks upon her brother's engagement, and Elise was very much predisposed to disliking her. At sight of her the feeling was only reinforced, and Elise greeted her briefly and went to poke the logs about. Bombur slunk away, with a quiet hiss in the direction of the visitor, presumably for disturbing her own peace as well.

"Darcy, I came to see if I could change your mind about this dinner party, do come, and bring your little friend as well, I'm certain everyone would find her most amusing."

"I have no intention of going anywhere, Caroline, as I've already made clear to you," Darcy said rather abruptly, with a glance toward Elise, who was energetically attacking logs with poker, sending sparks up the chimney flue, attempting to control herself.

Caroline saw his attentions in that direction, and in a lower voice, but with the full knowledge that she would be overheard, said to him provocatively, "Really, Darcy, when you tire of your little fling with your American, I'll forgive you, after punishing you in some very interesting ways..."

Elise, putting the poker down with a clang, turned to her, fists on hips, saying in a most determined tone of voice, "All right, missy, you started up with the wrong person. I'm not as meek as my cousin. Let's go," advancing slowly toward Miss Catty, whose eyes widened in disbelief. Darcy just folded his arms and watched, quite pleased with things in general, and wondering just how far Elise was willing to go.

"And you better put your dead animal on, it's cold outside. I suppose that's the only pet you'd ever be able to keep, a dead one, no living thing with any sense would want to be in your company for very long. Come on, we're taking this outside, I wouldn't want to break anything valuable in here, because I am going to hipcheck your sorry bones from here to next Tuesday, and love every second of it! Say your prayers, dear, and make it quick!"

Elise had slowly been advancing the whole time, and Caroline retreating, until they were in the hall, Darcy following with a large grin, Miss Catty unnerved and speechless, as the verbal assault continued.

"Someone should have told you off a long time ago, I am amazed at the forbearance shown by everyone! You're a meddling, ill-mannered wench, and I mean that in its archaic sense! I wasn't captain of my hockey team for nothing, and you know what? You get the benefit of my experience! Oh, don't leave now and spoil my fun, dear Miss Bingley, come back!" as Caroline flew out the door, throwing her coat about her shoulders, and Elise slammed it shut, then brushed her hands as though ridding them of something particularly distasteful.

Darcy was so totally in love he just stood watching her, then began to applaud, and she grinned at him. "Was I too harsh?" she asked demurely, and was rewarded by his laugh. "A bit, but I forgive you. Captain of your hockey team?" She grinned, "Yep, Immaculate Heart of Mary. I liked their uniforms, and nuns can be extremely competitive!"

He offered her his hand, saying "May I have this dance?" And they waltzed around the hall for a good long while, to their own private music, as their pets watched comfortably from a distance.

"Yes," she whispered. He pulled back, looking in her eyes, and as he saw her meaning, a smile spread across his features.

"Chicago?"

"Yes, please. It's my home."

"Done," and he removed a small velvet box from his pocket, adding, "I've been waiting."

The ring fit perfectly, and neither got any sleep at all that night. Bombur and Minnie were quite put out.

The End

Epilogue

They stayed at Pemberley some weeks, and instead of returning to London and visiting with her cousin again before departing for the States, Darcy invited Jan and Charles Bingley to join them in celebrating their engagement. (No one had heard from Caroline for some time, and it was believed she had left the country, possibly for cosmetic surgery, but this was just a rumor).

Jan was very pleased with the way things had turned out, Charles as well, and they badgered Elise into making lasagne during their visit. The cook got the night off, and Elise got Darcy in the kitchen, claiming she wouldn't be able to find anything, but he wasn't much help in that area, as he wasn't very familiar with this region of Pemberley. Her cousins soon joined them there, to find Darcy chopping garlic under Elise's tutelage, which greatly amused his best friend, Bombur on top of one of the refrigerators overseeing things, and Minnie generally getting in the way, particularly her wagging tail. A great deal of wine was consumed that evening, rest assured.

They arrived in Chicago just in time for the last minute Christmas shopping crowds, making any progress almost impossible, but they didn't mind a bit. Elise bought gifts for her brother as well as a number of residents in her building, and Darcy, recalling her earlier conversation with a very tall man, asked about her relationship with them.

"I don't...I own more units in my building than the one I live in. I guess I should tell you, but I dislike talking about it."

"Why would it make you uncomfortable?" he asked, wondering what she wanted to hide, and why, even more curious now.

"Because I prefer certain things to be done quietly, that's all. I'm not even sure how Mr. Jordan found out. I told you I take from the rich, and help out the not so rich, right?" as he nodded, she continued, "I own the top two floors entirely, and smaller units scattered around as well. My father left some money of his own lying about," this with a small grin to him, and he returned it. "So basically I soak the higher-ups, and I can easily afford to rent the others out at sharply reduced rates, to elderly people who appreciate and need the conveniences we offer, but could never afford to live there on their incomes. There, satisfied?"

"Very much so," and he kissed her fully, right there on the corner of State and Madison, and no one minded at all, just walking around the embracing couple, smiling slightly as they passed, thinking, It's Christmas time, what better thing to do?

"I know we have to get back to walk Minnie, but I'd like to make a quick stop first, if it's all right with you?" and upon her ready consent they headed toward the Art Institute, and Elise's favorite lions, as night settled in, and the sounds of the lake could be heard above the holiday traffic and crowds of people, snow beginning to fall, lightly, gently, and they walked arm in arm, most definitely in love.

Elise was surprised by the almost obsequious greeting offered to Mr. William Darcy, and she whispered one word to him out of hearing of the escort that had been provided, "Quack!" and he shushed her, but with a smile.

They were led to a particular painting, in an area she was well acquainted with, and stood before one of Monet's "Water Lilies" in silent appreciation. Darcy waited, and she finally saw the plaque, with the information that this painting had been donated by The Darcy Family, in gratitude.

Tears welled up, and she couldn't say a word.

"I did it on purpose, you know." "What?" she asked, confused.

"Stepped on your foot." The crowds here didn't mind at all, either.