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Chapter 59
After Georgiana returned his coat, David bowed and left her. She clearly wanted to be alone with her thoughts and he wanted to be alone with his. Their conversation did not satisfy him. She was still being haunted by some inner pain, yet, for the first time in their relationship, she was unwilling to reveal the source of her distress to him. In years past, they had always confided in each other, however during the years after his Uncle Darcy's death, David had seen little of her. He removed himself from her presence and went to stand in a far corner to watch the ball and think.
He turned this latest conversation over and over again in his mind while looking out on the mass of people. Bingley and Jane were happily talking with some guests. Clearly, the wedding date being so near put them both in the best of spirits. Kitty was dancing with the new vicar. David smiled when he saw Mary was sitting alone against a wall, her head buried in a book of sermons. Fitzwilliam was watching Darcy and Elizabeth with great intensity. Surely he cannot be jealous, thought David. However, one glance at Georgiana watching Darcy and Elizabeth as well began to make the picture very clear.
David continued to watch the proceedings carefully. What he was witnessing alarmed him, and if his hunch was correct, he was determined to put an end to it.
Just then, Bingley, being pushed on by Caroline to make an introduction, approached him. "I can guess the subject of your reverie," he said, interrupting David's thoughts.
"I should imagine not."
"You are considering how insupportable it would be to pass many evenings away from such society. The energy and wit of these people have bewitched you."
"Your conjecture is totally wrong, I assure you. My mind was less agreeably engaged," David replied while turning to face Bingley and Caroline. Just then, he spotted Mrs. Bennet running towards him. "Oh Lord!" he muttered.
"Whatever is the matter?" asked Bingley.
"Miss Bingley, normally I would wait until we are properly introduced, but will you dance the next two with me?" David hastily asked Caroline.
After barely waiting long enough to hear her acceptance, David seized Caroline's hand and led her to the floor.
"I'm sorry for being so ill mannered," David apologized once they started dancing. "It's just that I wished to start dancing immediately."
"Don't trouble yourself, My Lord. It is clear that we both know who the other is," Caroline replied with a coy smile.
Just then, Darcy and Elizabeth came into view. It was clear from David's vantage point that neither was talking to the other.
Chapter 60
After dancing with Elizabeth, Darcy was silently cursing himself as he considered his actions of the past half-hour.
After Bingley's announcement, the cheering throngs didn't lift his spirit. Elizabeth was to wed Fitzwilliam in three days. Although he knew the inevitable day would occur, he still was not reconciled to the fact that he was to lose her forever. However, he forced himself to approach the happy pair to wish his congratulations. As he walked up to them, he felt every muscle in his body stiffen.
"Fitzwilliam, Miss Bennet," Darcy said as soon as he drew near to them. "Congratulations on setting the day. You must be very happy."
"I am delighted," replied Fitzwilliam with a smile. His face truly reflected his joy.
Just then, the orchestra began to play. As the song, "Mr. Beveridge's Maggot" began, Darcy's mind floated back to the year earlier in that very room. He had been very nervous and unsure of what to say to the beautiful country girl. He maintained his proud, haughty demeanour as she archly questioned him about Wickham. He bore up to her teasing and questions with great fortitude, while foolishly thinking he was not in love with her. Time would prove him wrong. She was the love of his life and the mistakes he made a year ago would prove to be his undoing.
Unable to stand idly by while contemplating his past, he felt compelled to ask her to dance with him again. Though his common sense told him to act otherwise, an inexplicable force within him forced him to ask her to dance once more. "Elizabeth, would you do me the honour of dancing with me?"
"I would be delighted William," she answered with a smile, a slight blush brightening her cheeks.
Darcy quickly took her arm and led her away from her baffled fiancée. As they began to dance, he was at a loss for words. Last year, he had been afraid of saying too much. Now, he feared revealing too much. As a result, they began the dance in silence. Darcy wished to speak, but he could not trust himself.
"William, are you enjoying your stay in Hertfordshire?" she asked after several minutes.
"Yes, I always do," he replied with a smile.
They both fell silent again until Elizabeth said, "I will miss Hertfordshire when I am gone."
"I did not know that you had immediate plans to leave," he answered.
"Richard has another assignment in Scotland. He has managed to delay his departure until after our wedding, but we must go directly from Hertfordshire to his post."
"Oh," replied Darcy, unsure of what else to say. After several more minutes of awkward silence, he said, "You must be happy that the wedding is rescheduled."
After a moment's hesitation, she answered quietly, "Yes, I am. Richard is a very good, decent, and honourable man. I admire him greatly."
"Yes, he is a very good man," agreed Darcy before falling silent again.
"I see your cousin is leading Miss Bingley to the floor," she said, while nodding in their direction.
Darcy chuckled. "I could not think of a better paired couple. I believe the title he will inherit along with his estate would please her very much... He is overbearing like my Aunt Catherine and she… Well, you know Miss Bingley."
"Yes, I understand you perfectly," replied Elizabeth while trying to conceal a smile.
After laughing at the pairing of David and Caroline, both fell into an awkward silence for the remainder of the song. Darcy wished to say more to Elizabeth, but he was afraid of saying something inappropriate. At the conclusion of the dance, Darcy escorted Elizabeth back to Fitzwilliam, bowed, and walked away. As he left her, he was a tumult of emotion, but tried to keep up a happy front.
I am a fool, he thought to himself after walking away. She must think I am a complete idiot asking her to dance, then barely saying a word. The next three days will be torture if I don't do everything I can to avoid her. I cannot be in her presence, he resolved.
Chapter 61
Soon, much to the relief of several of the participants, the ball ended. Darcy was relieved to be out of Elizabeth's presence. Even being in the same room with her was stabbing daggers in his heart. As soon as the guests left, he went to the library to be by himself and reflect more on the evening. He had been tempted to tell Elizabeth everything while they were dancing, but he knew that would have been a mistake. Yet, Georgiana's pleas to tell Elizabeth of his love for her still haunted him.
The library was a large and comfortable room, adequately heated by a large fire. Unlike the library at Pemberley, the shelves were not filled with books. Instead, the selection was small, yet thoughtfully chosen. Darcy carefully chose a book, poured himself a brandy, and settled into a large leather chair near the fire. Instead of immediately opening his selection, he allowed his eyes to wander over the room. It was an odd library. It was only half filled with books, the rest with family heirlooms. Over the mantle hung two swords, presumably used by an ancestor of the owner of the estate who must have been a knight. On each side of the mantle, stood two stone lions, each about three feet tall. They weren't particularly good statutes, but they had obviously been in the family for some years. Off to each side of the fireplace were portraits.
Darcy sighed and took a sip of his brandy. The peace of being sometimes alone, he thought to himself. He finally opened the book and tried to read. However, he could not force himself to concentrate on the words. His mind kept wandering back to Elizabeth.
His solitude was soon interrupted. Much to his dismay, David, Fitzwilliam, and Bingley joined him after ten minutes. "I can see we all had the same idea," said Bingley. "A nightcap and some relaxation before going to sleep seems like a good idea."
Fitzwilliam sat down in the chair next to Darcy. "What a long day," he said with a sigh.
Quickly, Bingley poured drinks for everyone. "If you don't mind Mr. Bingley, I believe I'll take my brandy upstairs. It has been a very long evening," said David, desiring to be alone to consider his future course of action.
"No, of course I don't mind. It has been a long night. I think I am going to join you and retire as well," said Bingley. "Good night gentlemen," he said as he and David left the room.
"Good night Bingley. I think I'll follow you up in a few minutes," replied Darcy. "It is late."
"Yes, I'll come up soon too," agreed Fitzwilliam as he took another sip of his brandy. He then placed the snifter on the table next to his chair and stared into the fire. He watched the flames shoot up and lick the wood, dancing about in a hypnotic fashion as he sunk into the comfortable leather chair. This is bliss, he thought. The evening had been long and enjoyable, yet something nagged at him in the back of his mind. A moment of quiet relaxation would help ease the tension.
"Fitzwilliam," said Darcy hesitantly, rousing him from his thoughts.
"Yes?"
"I am love with Elizabeth."
"What?!"
"I said…"
"I heard you the first time!" cried Fitzwilliam, his eyes wide with shock.
"I have decided that I am going to take her away from you," Darcy said with more resolve.
"You will do no such thing!" Fitzwilliam exclaimed, while rising from his chair.
Darcy rose and met Fitzwilliam's confusion with a determined glare. "It was a mistake to ever introduce you to her. I am the only one who can make her truly happy."
"Ha! She loves me!" Fitzwilliam retorted.
"Are you too blind to see? She doesn't love you! She's never loved you! It is me that she wants! Me that she loves! You aren't good enough for her! You will only drive her to the poor house in misery! I can drape her in jewels and crowns! You can only clothe her in rags!" Darcy declared as his voice became louder and louder.
"She doesn't care for any of that! She loves me!" Fitzwilliam shouted.
"Oh really? Has she ever told you she loved you?"
"Well…"
"No, she never has because she never loved you!" shouted Darcy triumphantly.
"I will never let you take her from me!"
"You won't have a choice," warned Darcy.
"As long as I have a breath in my body, I will never let you take her away from me! I love her too much!" exclaimed Fitzwilliam angrily.
"Very well!" Darcy growled as he grabbed the two swords hanging over the mantle piece. Throwing one to Fitzwilliam, Darcy declared "En garde!"
Fitzwilliam caught the sword and angrily thrust it at Darcy, which he easily avoided. "Sloppy swordsmanship for a soldier. Perhaps you should spend less time wooing and more time fencing."
Quickly, Darcy parried and thrust forward. The clanging of steel wakened Fitzwilliam to the passion and determination in Darcy's heart. He could barely fend off Darcy's attack. "He is the fencing champion of his club for a reason," he thought. "I must fight wisely."
Darcy continued his attack with a stream of aggressive moves. Fitzwilliam was thrown into a completely defensive position, doing everything that he could to ward off Darcy's angry advance. Darcy circled the room, tracking his retreating cousin. Suddenly, Darcy thrust forward as Fitzwilliam parried and dodged quickly to the right, but Fitzwilliam's sword hit its mark. As Darcy lunged forward, Fitzwilliam's blade ran through Darcy's chest and stabbed his heart. As soon as Fitzwilliam realized what happened, he coiled back in horror, withdrawing his blade immediately. However, it was too late. Darcy was dead before he hit the ground.
"Oh my God! What have I done?!"
Chapter 62
Posted on Sunday, 6 June 1999
Fitzwilliam sat up with a start, sweat pouring down his face and body. He looked frantically at his surroundings. He was alone in the library at Netherfield, sitting in a chair facing the fire, though the fire had reduced itself to just glowing embers now. Above the mantle rested the two swords, still in their original place. "Thank God!" he mumbled. "It was only a dream." Fitzwilliam looked down at his empty snifter. "Brandy," he muttered to himself as he shook his head. He rose shakily and walked to the window, leaned against it, and pressed his sweaty forehead up against the cold glass.
His nightmares were becoming more frequent. Over the past months, he had dreamed many times that he would lose her. At first, it started very vague. She was lost somewhere in the fog in front of him, calling to him. He would blindly follow the voice, searching for her, calling to her, but he could never find her. As the months went on, the dreams became increasingly vivid and more frequent. However, tonight's nightmare brought a new element. An enemy. Darcy.
As he leaned against the window, Fitzwilliam closed his eyes and allowed his thoughts to wander. What Darcy said in his dream was true. Elizabeth had never told him that she loved him. Though she told him she admired and respected him, but she never said "love." Could it be that she doesn't love me? he wondered. He shook his head, No, if she didn't love me she would never marry me. You're being foolish, he told himself. After all, she married me once and we are about to wed again. No, she must love me.
The idea that Elizabeth didn't return his love frightened Fitzwilliam. Though he hoped that she loved him, as desperately and completely as he loved her, he would settle for just knowing that she loved him, even a little. He hoped that theirs would be a marriage based on mutual respect, admiration, attraction, but most of all love. Are all people in love this uncertain? he wondered. He admitted to himself, though to no one else, that she was the only person he has ever been in love with. He had many infatuations and flirtations, but nothing as consuming as what he now felt. Oh, I am just being ridiculous, he scolded himself.
Still, something had been nagging at him all night. Darcy stares at Elizabeth frequently, he pondered. Darcy has always stared at her. She mentioned it when we were all at Rosings, even teased him about it. And tonight, Darcy called Elizabeth by her first name. But surely there can be no significance to that? Can there be?
"Richard, are you still awake?" asked a voice.
Fitzwilliam opened his eyes to see David standing in front of him. "I had not heard you enter the room. Why are you up at this hour?"
"I could easily ask you the same thing. I would have thought that you were asleep, except you were standing."
Fitzwilliam stood up straight. "I was just about to go up and go to bed. And yourself?"
David shook his sleep. "Can't sleep. I was about to have a brandy mixed with water. Will you join me?"
"No, no," replied Fitzwilliam quickly before leaving the room. "Brandy is dangerous."
Fitzwilliam walked directly to his bedchamber and prepared for a night's rest, though he knew he would get little sleep. Little did he realize how many of Netherfield's occupants would suffer a similar fate.
Chapter 63
Darcy rose for breakfast a little bit later than usual. He waited until he heard Bingley and Fitzwilliam leave for Longbourn before getting out of bed. He decided that it would be best to avoid either Fitzwilliam or Elizabeth as much as possible before the wedding. Seeing either one was too torturous. Once they left, he dressed and proceeded down to breakfast. Caroline, David, Louisa, Mr. Hurst, and Georgiana were all in the breakfast room, finishing their meal.
"Well good morning Darcy, or should I say good afternoon?" David teased as soon as Darcy walked in.
"Good morning David, and it is morning, unless you forgot how to read a clock," Darcy shot back. "Good morning Georgiana, Miss Bingley, Mr. and Mrs. Hurst. I hope my cousin isn't too much of an irritant."
"No, your cousin has been a perfect gentleman and simply delightful," cooed Caroline.
Darcy quickly went to the sideboard under the pretense of selecting some food and turned his back on everyone to conceal his smile. Caroline was sitting next to David and was very attentive. What a perfect couple, Darcy thought. I could not imagine two people better suited for one another. Darcy quickly served himself and sat down next to Georgiana.
"I think I am going for a walk after breakfast, is there a nice path nearby?" David asked Caroline.
"We have a very lovely garden here. I would be happy to show it to you," she offered eagerly.
"It would be my pleasure to be accompanied by you," he said with a smile. "In fact, why don't we take a stroll right now. It is quite sunny and beautiful out."
"What a wonderful idea," answered Caroline with a big grin. They rose and left the room together.
"That's an odd pair," blurted Mr. Hurst as soon as the couple exited.
"Nonsense!" scolded Louisa. "They look lovely together."
"Really? How much is he worth?" Mr. Hurst asked.
Louisa blushed at her husband's question and would not answer, even though she knew the answer perfectly well.
"Oh, that's right, Caroline said that he is to inherit almost nine thousand a year. Quite a tidy sum. You are right Louisa, they do look lovely together," Mr. Hurst said before slurping out of his wine glass.
Georgiana shifted uncomfortably in her seat. It was clear that Miss Bingley has her eye on David's title and fortune, she thought. Yet why is David so eager to be in her presence? Surely he cannot admire her? But, he has been very attentive to her ever since he first laid his eyes on her. He did notice her immediately upon her entrance into the ballroom yesterday. He also asked me about her as soon as we were outside, even before he inquired about me. He even danced with her several times yesterday…
"Georgiana, are you well?"
Startled, Georgiana gasped, "What?"
"I asked if you were well?" repeated Darcy while touching her arm gently. "You look a little pale."
"Yes, quite… Thank you, I am fine," she said as she suddenly stood up. "I am finished with breakfast. I think I'll go to the music room now."
"Very well. Have a good day," answered Darcy.
Georgiana quickly left to be alone and ponder the change in David's behaviour.
Chapter 64
After breakfast, Darcy went to listen to his sister play the piano forte for a short time. However, her playing lacked the same energy and vitality that it usually contained. It seemed depressed. Instead of bringing him comfort, it was another reminder of what he was about to lose.
After listening to one concerto, he left to go to the study. He sat behind the desk and proceeded to bury himself in business correspondence. While writing his steward, David entered the room and sat down in one of the chairs in front of him.
"Don't you know how to knock?" Darcy growled while refusing to look up at him.
"Oh sorry," David mumbled as he leaned forward and knocked on the desktop.
"I'm busy. What do you want?" snapped Darcy.
"Since you were late to breakfast, you didn't hear Mr. Bingley's announcement. He informed us that my parents will be arriving late tomorrow afternoon. They will dine here for dinner with the entire Bennet family, the Bingleys, the Hursts, and of course, you, Georgiana, and myself."
"Is that all?"
"I also wanted to talk to about Miss Elizabeth Bennet," began David.
Darcy suddenly looked up. His eyes reflected his alarm, but he said nothing.
"I understand that you have seen quite a lot of her over the course of your acquaintance. I want you to give me your impressions of her."
"She is a charming young woman," answered Darcy quietly, before looking back down at the letter in front of him and continuing to write.
"And?" David persisted.
Irritated, Darcy growled, "Shouldn't you be asking your brother these questions? After all, he should know her best."
"Not necessarily. Miss Bennet bewitched Richard. He would not be a good judge of her character. I'm sure you will do her justice."
"She is a fine woman. He should be very happy."
"But she has virtually no dowry and no connections. She will drive him to the poor house."
Darcy put down his pen, looked up, and glared at David. "If you do not intend to help him with his career, I will. Fitzwilliam will not be driven to the poor house."
"Very well, but what of her family?" continued David. "Are we to be connected with such a lot? I understand her mother's family is in trade. If that wasn't enough of a grievous offense, an aunt and uncle whom she loves dearly lives in Cheapside. To have the good name of Fitzwilliam sullied by such relations? Richard will be shunned by all good society because of his marriage and we will be made to look ridiculous. You are a Fitzwilliam, surely you must feel indignant as well."
"Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner are kind, gentle, compassionate, well-mannered, and knowledgeable, which is more than I can say for some of our blood relatives!" Darcy exclaimed. "They should be embarrassed to be connected with us. I will not allow you to abuse Elizabeth or her relations. I will not have it!"
"Calm down Darcy," David soothed. "I just wanted to know more about the lady. If you think that her lack of wealth and connections will not be a hindrance to this marriage, I will not object. I am just trying to look after Richard's best interests, that is all. You seem to approve of her, that is enough for me."
"David, if you have nothing further, I have matters to attend to," growled Darcy.
"Very well, I will show myself out," David replied while rising.
"Do."
Chapter 65
Darcy decided it would be best to avoid all contact with either of his cousins unless it was absolutely necessary. For the next day, he buried himself in the study or in his bedchamber. Unfortunately, he knew that as the groomsman in the wedding and cousin to one of the grooms, he must attend the dinner the night before the wedding. Everyone would expect it. However, he was determined to postpone his appearance in the parlour until absolutely necessary. He stood at his bedchamber window and watched the Bennets arrive. As Elizabeth was helped down from the carriage, he thought longingly, "If only she were here to see me." He soon banished those thoughts from his mind, checked his appearance again in the looking glass, and steeled himself for the dinner ahead. He was certain that Mrs. Bennet would say something embarrassing during the dinner, Kitty would be silly, David would be arrogant, and Caroline would be snobby. He would do anything to spare Elizabeth the spectacle that he was sure was to come. However, he took comfort in the fact that his aunt and uncle were not like David. Unlike David, they were gentle, generous people and would not think poorly upon Elizabeth for the behaviour of her mother or sister. He took a deep breath and left his room to face the dragons below.
Darcy was the last guest to walk into the parlour. "William, I am so happy to see you," exclaimed Lady Matlock as soon as he entered the room.
"I am happy to see you as well Aunt," replied Darcy with a smile.
"You are looking well William," declared Lord Matlock. "And I see you've been taking wonderful care of your sister."
"With some assistance from your son," reminded Darcy.
"Well, she is delightful," he continued. "By the bye, when are you going to grace her with a sister?"
"Hush," Lady Matlock scolded her husband. "Leave the poor boy alone. I'm sure he will find a mistress for Pemberley soon enough."
"But my dear," Lord Matlock protested, "he is almost nine and twenty. He should start thinking about settling down. He shouldn't follow David's example. I have no idea when that boy will marry. No woman is ever good enough for his fastidious nature."
To Darcy's relief, the footman announced dinner, thereby cutting short his aunt and uncle's well-meaning, yet uncomfortable, inquisition.
As soon as dinner was announced, David quickly approached Elizabeth. "Miss Elizabeth, since you are soon to be my sister, will you allow me to escort you into the dining room? I would like to become better acquainted with you," he said while offering his arm.
"Yes of course Lord Wallingford," Elizabeth replied.
"Please, call me David. After all, we are to be related soon enough."
"Only if you call me Elizabeth."
David nodded his head and smiled. As they began to walk out of the parlour, David noticed that Fitzwilliam was following close behind. "Get your own dinner companion Richard," David called over his shoulder. "I wish to have Elizabeth all to myself."
Bewildered, Fitzwilliam stopped in his tracks.
Darcy, having noticed the exchange, approached Fitzwilliam. "What was that all about?" Darcy mumbled to him.
"I have no idea. Do you think I should be worried?"
"It's David. Need I say more?"
The cousins soon recollected their manners and escorted Georgiana and Caroline into the dining room. Uncomfortably, they sat at their assigned seats on the far end of the table near Caroline. David and Elizabeth were seated next to one other at the far end of the table and surrounded by Mr. Hurst and Mary Bennet.
Darcy soon noticed that David talked to Elizabeth throughout the dinner. Try as hard as he might, Darcy could not hear what they were discussing. He frequently looked over at Fitzwilliam to see if he had any better luck, but it was obvious by Fitzwilliam's expressions that he could not hear either. The alarm on Fitzwilliam's face said it all.
After dinner, they adjourned to the music room to listen to Georgiana play the piano forte. At the conclusion of her piece, everyone applauded.
As soon as Georgiana rose to leave the instrument, Mary Bennet eagerly jumped up and walked towards it.
"I think that perhaps we would all enjoy a change of entertainment before you play," blurted Caroline. "Perhaps Mr. Darcy would like to read to us?"
"No, thank you Miss Bingley. Perhaps someone else would prefer reading?" Darcy responded.
"I'm sorry Miss Bingley. It appears that my cousin doesn't know how to read," goaded David. "I would be happy to serve in his stead since he is unfit for the job."
"I assure you, Lord Wallingford, your cousin has a fine reading voice," protested Caroline.
"Perhaps his voice is fine, but that doesn't make him literate," David replied.
"Very well," Darcy grumbled. "I will read. I will go to the library and get a book."
"Here is one Mr. Darcy," said Louisa, while picking up a book that was sitting on a neighbouring table.
"Thank you Mrs. Hurst," he answered. As soon as he took the book from Louisa, he noticed the bookmark sticking out of it. He glanced up at Georgiana and shook his head slightly. He then settled back in his chair, opened the book to the marked spot and began to read.
I think sometimes about
What I would tell her
If I were near enough.
It makes the miles shorter
To call my sorrow out
To her, with thoughts.
Often the people here
See in me the figure
Of a carefree man,
For so I let it seem.Had I not taken on
Such a lofty love,
I might be saved.
But I did it without thinking.
And now every moment I suffer
Pain that presses deep.
Now my own constancy
Has tied down my heart
And will not let it part
From her, as things are now.It is a great wonder.
She whom I love with greatest torment
Has always acted like my enemy.
Now may no man ever know
What such a burden is;
It weighs down hard.
I thought I knew what it was before,
Now I know it better.
Over there, where home is, I was sad,
And here three times more.However little good it does me,
Still I have this pleasure:
No one can stop me
From thinking close to her,
Wherever on earth I turn.
This comfort she must let me have.
If she takes it well,
That gives me joy forever,
For I, more than any other man,
Was always hers.Friedrich Von Hausen
As Darcy read the poem, the words were being branded to his soul. He could barely finish. A knot had developed in his throat and he fought to keep his voice steady. At its conclusion, he struggled to keep his countenance placid.
Luckily, David asked Mary Bennet to perform as soon as Darcy finished reading. Mary's howling quickly turned all attention away from Darcy. He silently rose from his chair and walked out of the room during her performance. He walked out Netherfield's front door and took a deep breath. Desperately, he scanned the heavens as he tried to take his mind off of his plight.
After a minute, Georgiana joined him. She walked outside and put her arm around his.
"That wasn't fair Georgiana," he said. "You know this is difficult for me. Why can't you support my decision?"
"I didn't choose the poem," she protested. "I don't know who did, but I had nothing to do with it."
He turned to her and looked into her eyes quizzically. "Are you telling me you didn't place that book there so I would choose it?"
"I had no hand in it. Perhaps it was fate?"
"No, not fate. Someone is toying with me," he replied angrily. "I don't know who or why, but I do not believe the poem was placed there by accident."
Chapter 66
David rose very early the next morning. It was Fitzwilliam's wedding day.
As David dressed, he pondered the situation. He knew that Georgiana had been depressed, but hadn't connected it with Darcy's sullen behaviour until three days ago. Darcy often sulked around him and over the years, he had learned to ignore it. It wasn't until the ball at Netherfield that he began to connect Georgiana's depression with Darcy's behaviour. He noticed Georgiana often watched her brother as Darcy stared at Elizabeth. He also noted that Fitzwilliam watched Darcy closely. Whether Fitzwilliam was prepared to acknowledge it, Fitzwilliam knew how Darcy felt. It was then that he also realized that he had to work fast. Either he had to stop the wedding or he had to make Darcy realize that Elizabeth did not love him.
However, before he stepped in, he wanted to make sure that his guesses where correct. First, he gleaned information from Caroline about Elizabeth by telling her that he had heard the rumours that she was to become his cousin. From then on, she was eager to have the future Earl as an ally. Though he felt a little guilty about using her, he did not lie. Rumours ran rampant throughout London that she and Darcy were to wed, probably spread by the lady herself. She quickly told him all that he needed to know about Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship. Then, he confronted Darcy to see how he would react to his inquiry into Elizabeth's background. Just as he had predicted, the man in love defended Elizabeth, even growing openly hostile towards him, as he never had before. At the family dinner, he purposefully took Elizabeth aside, apart from either his brother or his cousin, because he wanted to search her true feelings for both of them. Much to his dismay, but not his surprise, he discovered that she loved Darcy, but admired and respected Fitzwilliam. The warm and glowing terms with which she spoke of Darcy revealed all. As his last safety measure, he arranged it so that Darcy would read the poem he selected in front of Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth. Caroline and Louisa were the unknowing participants in setting up the scheme. They thought that Darcy would be eagerly reading a poem to Caroline, when he knew that Darcy's heart would be otherwise engaged. While Darcy was reading, he watched Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth's reaction closely. Elizabeth had tears welling in her eyes while Darcy haltingly, yet bravely, read the poem. Meanwhile, Fitzwilliam anxiously watched both his cousin and his fiancée. As much as he now regretted causing Darcy and Elizabeth so much pain, he knew that he had to be sure of their hearts before he broke his brother's.
After he was dressed, David dismissed his servants and sat alone on the edge of his bed, considering his future actions. How am I to ruin the hopes and dreams of my brother? Yet, I must. As he was sitting on his bed, lost in thought, a knock came at the door.
"Come," he ordered.
"This came for you sir. I thought you should see it immediately," said his valet while handing him a letter.
David took the note and glanced at the seal. It was the seal of De Bourgh.
He hastily opened the letter and read it.
November 19th
Rosings ParkDear Viscount Wallingford,
David, you must come to Rosings as soon as you receive this letter. It is an urgent matter of family honour and propriety. Please do not mention to anyone that I have written you.
Come immediately.
Yours &c.,
Lady Catherine de Bourgh
"Whatever could Aunt Catherine want with me?" he pondered. "Christopher, I want you to pack all of my belongings immediately. I must leave soon," he ordered.
"Yes, my Lord," his valet answered.
David stared at the note, considering its contents for a few more seconds before shoving it into his coat pocket. He left the room and walked towards Fitzwilliam's bedchamber. He was off to stop a wedding and there was not a moment to lose.
Chapter 67
As David reached his brother's door, an odd chill came over him. He knew he was about to break Fitzwilliam's heart, but he knew no other solution. Silently, he cursed himself for not realizing Darcy and Elizabeth's love sooner so that he may spare his brother some humiliation, yet he knew that was not possible. Darcy never confided in him and Georgiana would never give up her brother's confidence. Even if he discovered the love triangle earlier, it was doubtful that he could have interfered. He would not crush his brother's hopes and dreams for the world, except he had no choice. He must make his brother come to terms with Darcy and Elizabeth's love for each other before it was too late.
Even though David had a rocky relationship with his brother, he loved and respected him deeply. Secretly, he had always been envious of him. Being a younger son, the expectations weren't nearly as great on Fitzwilliam as they had been on the young Viscount. David found that patterns established when he was younger to shield himself from overwhelming expectations were difficult to alter. As a result, he became domineering and intimidating, whereas his brother possessed the happy manners that everyone, including David, admired and envied.
He took a deep breath before knocking on the door.
"Come in."
He quickly entered the bedchamber to see Fitzwilliam standing in front of the looking glass straightening his red coat, while his valet helped him put on his sword.
"If you will excuse us a moment, I would like to speak to my brother alone," said David to the valet.
The valet looked at Fitzwilliam, as if unsure of what to do. Fitzwilliam nodded to him and the valet left the room, closing the door behind him.
"Come to wish me joy?" Fitzwilliam asked while still looking at himself in the looking glass and fussing with his appearance.
"No," David hesitantly began. "I am here to try and prevent a mistake."
Fitzwilliam froze for a second as his eyes focused on David's reflection. "Whatever do you mean?" he asked evenly.
"I believe you know what I mean," David replied quietly. "You can't marry her."
"Of course I can, I love her," Fitzwilliam responded.
"She doesn't love you. She loves Darcy and he loves her… I'm sorry."
Fitzwilliam whirled around to face his brother. All of his anger, hurt, and fury flashed in his eyes. "Elizabeth loves me!" he demanded. "And I love her. We will be married this morning."
"Richard, I'm sorry…"
"Keep your sentiments to yourself!" spat Fitzwilliam. "Why are you doing this? I knew you always been jealous of me because people like me more than they like you. Certainly, everyone caters to you because of your title, but how many people weather your company for your sake and not your name? But David, you will receive your precious title and your fortune. Are you so vindictive that you will not allow me the one happiness I most desperately want in the world? Are you that cruel?"
"I'm sorry I had to tell you. But you know that she doesn't love you."
"No! She loves me! She is going to marry me in two hours!" Fitzwilliam angrily countered.
"Richard, I can't allow you to marry her," pleaded David.
"You don't have a choice!"
"You cannot marry her! You know that she does not love you! She loves Darcy! Yes, she will marry you out of respect and obligation because it has come this far and he will allow it because of some warped loyalty to you, but it isn't right! I won't allow it!"
Every muscle in Fitzwilliam's body tensed. He struggled to keep from lunging at his brother's throat. "David, I will wed with or without your blessing. Either way suits me. You have a choice. I want you to stop this foolish talk and be at my wedding or leave," Fitzwilliam seethed.
"I will not stand idly by and watch you make such a monumental mistake!"
Fitzwilliam clinched his jaw tightly. "Fine. If that is your choice, then I no longer have a brother," he declared.
David stood in front of Fitzwilliam stunned. Although he had anticipated Fitzwilliam's wrath, he didn't dream that it would come to this. Yet, David knew he was right, however sorely he was tempted to recant his statement. After several seconds of standing silently, looking into Fitzwilliam's eyes, hoping he would change his mind, David replied. "Very well, if you wish," he said while looking down, no longer able to meet his brother's angry glare.
"Get out of my sight! I never want to see you again," Fitzwilliam spat. "To me, you are dead."
David sadly nodded his head and left the room without uttering another word. As he was walking towards his bedchamber, Georgiana approached him.
"David!" she said warmly, "There you are. Will you accompany me downstairs to have a bite to eat before the ceremony?"
"I'm sorry. I can't…" he said haltingly.
Georgiana stopped in front of him. The look on his face startled her. He was pale and shaken. Never had she seen such a look of pain or defeat on his face. "Whatever is the matter?"
He slowly took her hands in his while he searched for the words.
"David?"
He gazed into her eyes as he quietly replied, "I'm sorry George. I failed you. Please forgive me."
"Whatever do you mean?"
"Nothing, nothing," he muttered while shaking his head and dropping her hands. "Please forgive me," he mumbled as he abruptly walked away.
David ordered his trunks to be placed on his carriage immediately. Unable to withstand sitting idly in his bedchamber waiting, he went downstairs and outside. His carriage had been pulled around to the front of the house as servants were bringing his trunks out. As he stood pacing beside his barouche, another carriage was brought around behind his. It was the carriage to transport Fitzwilliam, Bingley, and Darcy to the church.
As the last trunk was placed on David's carriage and he was about to enter, Fitzwilliam, Darcy, and Bingley walked outside. David turned to look at Fitzwilliam, hoping that his brother would change his mind. Fitzwilliam met David's pleading eyes, with a hard, resolute glare before growling to his companions, "Let us hurry. We don't want anything to delay us." Quickly, Fitzwilliam hopped inside.
David stood, frozen in his spot for a few seconds. Then slowly, he lowered his head and stepped into his carriage. As soon as the last trunk was secure, the barouche left.
Bingley and Darcy had been unaware of the disagreement between the brothers and the sight of David leaving and Fitzwilliam's obvious snub took them by surprise. They looked at each other questioningly.
Finally, Darcy entered the barouche followed by Bingley. "Isn't David coming to the wedding?" Darcy asked Fitzwilliam.
"No," he growled.
"Why ever not?" asked Bingley.
"Are we going to spend all day discussing my brother or are we going to go and get married?" snapped Fitzwilliam. "Because if it all the same to you, I would like to get married as soon as possible."
Startled by his gruff reaction, Bingley mumbled "Yes, of course," before instructing the driver to leave for the church.
Darcy sat in the carriage opposite his cousin, contemplating the events of the morning. He had never known Fitzwilliam to lose his temper. Fitzwilliam had always possessed a cool, calm, happy demeanour, yet it was clear that something David said or did had infuriated him.
Darcy continued lost in thought, until suddenly, the church came into view. Oh no, he groaned inwardly. Darcy's stomach became very queasy as it began to churn nervously.
"It isn't too late to change your mind," said Darcy, in an attempt to make a light joke.
"No, I will not change my mind!" Fitzwilliam shot back angrily. "This morning I will wed Elizabeth Bennet!"
Chapter 68
Fitzwilliam leapt out of the carriage, as if driven by some invisible force. He quickly stormed into the church, his chin jutted out slightly and shoulders back.
Darcy followed his cousin, though with a very different demeanour. He slowly climbed out of the carriage with a horrible, sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. As he looked up at the church steeple, he inhaled slowly. It is going to be a very long day, he thought.
Bingley anxiously exited the barouche. He wasn't sure what was the matter with the cousins, but it wasn't going to ruin his day. He was exhilarated and every nerve in his body was on edge. "Come Darcy," he called, "we must enter the church. Today is going to be a marvelous day."
"Yes, yes," sighed Darcy. "I am following right behind you."
A black emptiness filled Darcy's heart as he entered the church. Though the first wedding had not been official, he knew that it would not be the case this time. Today Elizabeth was to wed Fitzwilliam, and he felt powerless to stop it.
As soon as he walked into the church, Lord and Lady Matlock approached him. Concern and confusion was diffused across their faces. Lord Matlock stopped Darcy and asked, "Whatever is the matter with my son? He looks more like he is going to be marching off to battle rather than to be wed. I have never seen a more determined look on his face before."
"I am not sure Uncle, he has been in an odd humour all morning and I cannot account for it."
"Where is David? Perhaps he can shed light on his brother's behaviour?" asked Lady Matlock.
"I'm sorry Aunt. I think David left Hertfordshire. I saw him pack all of his belongings and leave this morning."
"What? David not come to the wedding? That is preposterous!" exclaimed Lord Matlock. "You must be joking!"
"I'm sorry Uncle. I asked Richard about it and he said David was not coming."
"Did he give you any explanation?" gasped Lady Matlock.
"No, he did not," Darcy replied grimly.
"Perhaps they quarreled?" she asked.
"I do not know," answered Darcy.
Lord Matlock furrowed his brow. "Even if they quarreled, I taught David better than this. He knows his place in this family as the next patriarch and would never sacrifice family honour or dignity for some temporary sibling disagreement. I cannot believe he is not here," he mumbled to himself. "I must say that I am most seriously displeased."
Darcy smiled weakly at his aunt and uncle, nodded, and left to go prepare for the ceremony with Fitzwilliam and Bingley.
Chapter 69
Scarcely over an hour later, Darcy found himself in a familiar, retched position. He stood in front of the altar next to Bingley, Jane, Fitzwilliam, and Elizabeth as the new vicar began the ceremony.
"Dearly beloved, we are gathered together here in the sight of God, and in the face of this congregation, to join together this Man and this Woman and this Man and this Woman in holy Matrimony," began the vicar.
As the vicar continued to speak, Darcy stole a glance at Elizabeth. He was about to lose her forever, yet he allowed himself the luxury of speaking to her through his thoughts.
Oh Elizabeth, if you had only accepted me, you would have made me the happiest of men, he thought.
"Which is an honourable estate, instituted of God in the time of man's innocency, signifying unto us the mystical union that is betwixt Christ and his Church; which holy estate Christ adorned and beautified with his presence, and first miracle that he wrought, in Cana of Galilee..."
Nothing would have been beyond our grasp. I would never and could never deny you anything. I love you beyond measure and would cherish you always.
"…and is commended of Saint Paul to be honourable among all men: and therefore is not by any to be enterprised, nor taken in hand, unadvisedly, lightly, or wantonly, to satisfy men's carnal lusts and appetites, like brute beasts that have no understanding; but reverently, discreetly, advisedly, soberly, and in the fear of God; duly considering the causes for which Matrimony was ordained."
I could have become a better man with you by my side. You have taught me that my pride amounts to nothing. By you, I have been properly humbled. You could have taught me to become a better master and brother.
"First, It was ordained for the procreation of children, to be brought up in the fear and nurture of the Lord, and to the praise of his holy Name."
We could have had many children and an idyllic family life. With your wit, vitality, intelligence, and life, you would have made a wonderful mother.
"Secondly, It was ordained for a remedy against sin, and to avoid fornication; that such persons as have not the gift of continency might marry, and keep themselves undefiled members of Christ's body."
Life with you could never be less than sheer pleasure. I would have tried to be a romantic, loving, passionate husband, because I could not have been less near you.
"Thirdly, It was ordained for the mutual society, help, and comfort, that the one ought to have of the other, both in prosperity and adversity. Into which holy estate these two persons present come now to be joined."
You could have helped and advised me with the business at Pemberley, much as my mother advised my father. There is no one whose judgment I trust and rely on more than yours.
"Therefore if any man can shew any just cause, why they may not lawfully be joined together, let him now speak, or else hereafter for ever hold his peace."
Darcy held his breath for a moment. Though he made it perfectly clear to Georgiana that she was not to interfere, he couldn't be sure she would follow his demand. If she interrupted the wedding this time, he wasn't sure he'd have the strength not to admit his love for Elizabeth.
After several seconds of dead silence, the vicar continued and Darcy exhaled slowly.
"I require and charge you both, as ye will answer at the dreadful day of judgement when the secrets of all hearts shall be disclosed, that if either of you know any impediment, why ye may not be lawfully joined together in Matrimony, ye do now confess it. For be ye well assured, that so many as are coupled together otherwise than God's Word doth allow are not joined together by God; neither is their Matrimony lawful."
"Stop. There is an impediment."
Chapter 70
Fitzwilliam could not believe his ears. The whole church gasped then fell silent.
"Excuse me sir. What did you say?" the vicar asked, after recovering from his surprise.
Fitzwilliam hesitated before he answered, "I said, there is an impediment."
Bingley quickly put his arm around Jane and tried to comfort her as she turned white and began to shake. Darcy stood in shock, with his mouth hanging open. Elizabeth's eyes were wide as she turned to look at her groom. Her eyes reflected the disbelief she felt.
Fitzwilliam could hardly believe what he had just said. What are you saying? he asked himself. You are ruining your life's happiness!
The vicar's eyes widened. "Sir, I charge you upon your mortal soul, what is the impediment?"
"My bride does not love me," he answered. "She loves another. She loves my cousin, Fitzwilliam Darcy."
Gasps and cries echoed throughout the church. Jane started to faint as Bingley quickly caught her and carried her to the nearest pew.
Mr. Bennet was incensed. He rose from his seat and shouted, "What are you saying man? Are you accusing my daughter of acting dishonourably towards you?!" he demanded.
Fitzwilliam turned to face the angry father and replied with great sadness in his voice, "No sir, I am the one who has acted dishonourably." More gasps and cries were heard as he continued, "She would have married me because she made me a promise, and I selfishly took advantage of her decency. I love your daughter with all my heart and thought that she could learn to love me as I do her. But just now, while listening to the vicar, I realized that I am wrong. I should allow her to follow her heart and not trap her into a marriage she does not want."
"Richard, what are you saying?" Elizabeth blurted, finally able speak.
Fitzwilliam turned to Elizabeth and took her hands within his. "I love you more than I could ever express. I only want you to be happy."
"I cannot believe you are doing this!" she cried.
"Do you love me?" he sorrowfully asked.
Flustered, she stammered, "Richard… I admire and respect you… You are a good man!"
"But do you love me?"
She looked desperately in his eyes. Her face reflected her great confusion.
Fitzwilliam looked up at Darcy while asking, "Do you love Elizabeth?"
"Yes, with everything I am," Darcy replied mechanically, unable to overcome the suddenness of the moment.
Fitzwilliam looked deep into Elizabeth's eyes once more. "Do you love me as I do you?" he whispered.
Unable to meet his pained expression, she looked down as she answered, "No."
"Then we do not wed," he whispered back. "I cannot be the source of your life's unhappiness. It would be too much for me to bear."
Fitzwilliam dropped Elizabeth's hands and turned towards the congregation. Everyone immediately stopped whispering and listened. He cleared his throat and addressed the audience. "I am sorry that this has been such an inconvenience to many of you, but I cannot go through with this marriage. Please do not blame Elizabeth, the fault is solely mine. I have acted selfishly and in a manner in which I will always be ashamed. I only hope that you can find it in your hearts to forgive me."
As soon as he had concluded his speech, he raised his chin slightly, pulled his shoulders back, and marched forward. Fitzwilliam kept a determined, hard expression on his face as he left, though his insides were crumbling. Only his footsteps could be heard as he walked down the aisle and out the door.
As soon as the door closed, mayhem broke out in the church. Lady Matlock began to cry. Mrs. Bennet made loud wailing noises as she fell back and collapsed on to the pew. Caroline Bingley sobbed mournfully. Bingley tried to revive and comfort Jane. Georgiana gasped and could not contain her joyful tears.
In the midst of the chaos, Darcy grabbed Elizabeth's hand. "Can my dearest wish really come true? I must know! Do you really love me? Will you marry me?" he gasped.
Elizabeth's eyes welled with tears and she suddenly broke away from his grasp and ran down the aisle.
Darcy stood alone at the altar, unable to move. Disbelief reigned as he watched Elizabeth run out the door.
Chapter 71
Darcy stood frozen in his spot for a minute. He felt his whole world collapsing on top of him. His fondest dream was so close, almost within his gasp, just to be yanked away again.
Georgiana's voice interrupted his thoughts. "William! Go after her!" she called.
He looked over at his sister for a split second before running out of the church. As soon as he left the building, he looked around frantically. He did not immediately see Elizabeth and began to panic. Where could she be? he thought. Could she have left with Fitzwilliam?
Just then, he saw a carriage leaving from the group of carriages waiting nearby. He ran after it shouting, "Halt! Stop! Wait!"
After a few seconds, the driver noticed Darcy chasing after the carriage and stopped the horses. Darcy ran up to the door of the carriage and flung it open. He looked inside to see Fitzwilliam sitting inside alone, glaring at him.
"What do you want?" Fitzwilliam demanded.
"Elizabeth," Darcy panted, "where is she?"
"Wouldn't I be the last to know the answer to your question?"
"She ran out of the church after you," said Darcy while struggling to gain his breath. "I wanted to talk with her, but she left me… Perhaps you are wrong… Perhaps she does not care for me after all."
Fitzwilliam shook his head. "You do not understand women, do you? She loves you, I am sure of it. She has a gleam in her eye when she looks at you that she saves for no other. She becomes flush when you enter the room and looks longingly at you. If you give her up, you are the biggest fool who ever lived."
"I do love her with all of my heart... I am sorry for your pain."
Fitzwilliam's heartbreak was evident on his face. He looked down at the floor of the carriage and struggled to keep his voice steady. "Promise me that you will take care of her and will make her happy," he said quietly.
"I will. I swear," answered Darcy softly. "I cannot live without her. I know that now… You have saved my life again. Thank you."
"So I have," Fitzwilliam mumbled. After an awkward pause, he said in a more steady tone, "I have my duties to attend to in Scotland. I am shamefully overdue as it is. If you will excuse me."
"Very well," answered Darcy as he shut the carriage door. "Good bye," he said as the carriage started to move again.
As he watched Fitzwilliam's carriage drive away, Darcy asked himself, Where is she? He searched his memory for one place where she might be. I must find her. I must discover what her true feelings are.
Darcy started wandering aimlessly down a narrow footpath he and Elizabeth had walked before, looking all around him for some sign of her. Just then, he saw her in the distance. She sat on a log that had fallen along side the path, her head was bowed and buried in her hands. Not wanting to startle her or prompt her to run away, Darcy walked quickly yet silently until he was near her.
"Elizabeth?" he asked softly. "Will you please talk to me?"
"Please go away!" she sobbed. "I am a horrible person. How can I live with myself?"
"Please don't speak that way," he begged. "Please tell me what is the matter. Whatever it is, I will try to set it right."
"No, you can never set it right," she sobbed, her face still buried in her hands. "I have disgraced my family and hurt someone whom I admire and respect very much."
Darcy kneeled down in front of her, reached out and stroked her arm comfortingly. "It isn't that bleak. No one believes you have done anything wrong. Fitzwilliam will recover. I promise."
Elizabeth finally pulled her hands from her face and looked at him. Her tear streaked face, puffy eyes, and red nose broke his heart. It was immediately obvious that she had been sobbing since running from the church.
"How can you stand to be in my presence?" she asked. "I who treated you so wretchedly?"
"Elizabeth, don't you understand that I love you? Nothing you could ever do would drive me from your side! You are too precious to me."
"But I abused you so abominably to your face at Hunsford. How can you withstand being near me?"
"What did you say of me that I did not deserve?" Darcy protested. "For, though your accusations were ill-founded, formed on mistaken premises, my behaviour to you at the time, had merited the severest reproof. It was unpardonable. I cannot think of it without abhorrence."
Astonished, she asked, "But then engaging myself to your cousin? Surely you can never forgive me for that."
Darcy shook his head. "Shhh. Think nothing of that. Any punishment or torture I received from your engagement I deserved. Had I treated you in a more gentleman-like manner from the beginning of our acquaintance, that might never have happened."
Elizabeth shook her head is disbelief. "I must be dreaming. I have loved you for all of these months and never thought this was possible. I thought that you must despise me."
"You love me?" he gasped.
"Yes, of course I do."
Incredulous, Darcy blinked his eyes in disbelief. "When did you fall in love with me?"
"In truth, I do not know when my love for you began, it began so subtly. After your kindness to me in my moment of distress at Lambton, I finally realized I loved you. But I also knew I was engaged to an honourable, kind, and noble man who I could not disappoint. I thought I could forget you and learn to love Richard. It wasn't until after my first wedding, that I realized I could never forget you nor could I ever love anyone as I love you. But it was too late. After completing the ceremony once, it was too late to break the engagement, no matter how strongly I felt for you. I could never live with myself if I willfully caused Fitzwilliam such disgrace."
"Oh Elizabeth, didn't you know how much I loved you?"
Tears of joy welled up in her eyes as she shook her head. "No, I had no idea. After my horrible treatment of you, I thought that you could never feel for me as I did for you."
"But didn't my actions betray otherwise?"
"No. I thought you were being kind to me because I was going to marry Richard."
"My dearest, loveliest Elizabeth, any kindness I have ever shown you has been motivated by my love for you, not loyalty to my cousin. I was determined to be your friend, if I could not be your husband. But in my heart, I was always your one true lover."
"Oh William!" Elizabeth gasped before Darcy slowly leaned forward and brought his lips to hers.
After a long, lingering kiss, he asked, "Will you make me the happiest of men and consent to be my bride?"
"Oh yes William! I love you with all of my heart and would love to be your wife."
Chapter 72
Georgiana awoke and sighed to herself. It was a bright February morning and the day of Darcy and Elizabeth's one year wedding anniversary. Considering the circumstances under which they were married, Darcy and Elizabeth had a small ceremony in Lambton two months after the events in Hertfordshire. Only family attended the ceremony, with the notable absences of the Fitzwilliams, Lady Catherine and Anne, Mr. and Mrs. Wickham, and Mr. Collins. Mrs. Collins attended in direct defiance of Lady Catherine and her husband.
The past year had been full of joy and rewarded Georgiana with an even more loving sister than she had ever dreamed possible. Ever since the marriage, Elizabeth filled Pemberley with love, warmth, and happiness. The year would have been perfect, if not for one black cloud hanging over her life.
Georgiana sat up in her bed and leaned towards the oak nightstand next to her bed. She reached down and opened the drawer. Underneath a few of her handkerchiefs lay one embroidered with the initials "DJF". Carefully, Georgiana removed the handkerchief from the drawer, brought it to her face, and caressed her cheek with it. It was the handkerchief David had given her the night of the ball at Netherfield while they were outside together. That night, David opened his heart to her. He told her the truth about Mrs. Stanley and sleeping on her floor to protect her from nightmares. It was also that night that she realized she truly loved him. As a little girl, she looked up to her protector in awe and wonder. When she grew older, she despaired that he would only see her as a young child and not see her as she really was. But now, for the first time, she believed he saw her as a woman, not as a girl in pigtails.
As she thought back to the past they shared, she whispered, "How could I have been so blind? I have always loved him." Then, after kissing the handkerchief, she blushed. "I am just being foolish," she told herself as she quickly, but gently, returned it to its former hiding place.
Georgiana rose and walked to the window to look out, but she didn't see the grounds of Pemberley in front of her. In her mind's eye, she saw David when she encountered him in the hall at Netherfield. He was distracted, hurried, and vulnerable, as she had never seen him before. He gave her a cryptic apology and then left. Georgiana frowned when she thought of their parting. It was the last time she had a word from him.
She heard through her uncle that David had traveled to Rosings that morning. Georgiana sighed as she thought of him in Kent. Lady Catherine had lured him there, probably with discussions of family honour, duty, and joining the estates of Fitzwilliam and de Bourgh. He resisted for six months, but Lady Catherine carried her point. Arrangements were made and he moved to Rosings nine months ago.
She wondered how he was fairing since Lady Catherine's death the previous month. Lady Catherine's death was sudden and unexpected. Darcy had decided that he, Elizabeth, nor Georgiana should attend the funeral because of Lady Catherine's disapproval of his marriage to Elizabeth. Shortly before Darcy and Elizabeth's marriage, Lady Catherine wrote him telling him that he should cast Elizabeth aside because of her "infamous treatment of the dear Colonel, his cousin." She further went on to demand that "family honour, loyalty, and duty" should be his only concerns. Despite Elizabeth's urgings, Darcy never forgave her for her abusive words.
"David now owns Rosings," sighed Georgiana. "Once his father dies, Lady Catherine will have her wish. The estates will be joined."
As she was staring out of the window, there was a soft knock on the door.
"Please come in," she called.
Her maid entered, "Would you like to dress now Miss?"
"Yes, that will be fine," she sighed.
Georgiana quickly dressed and went downstairs to join her brother and sister for breakfast. Just before entering the breakfast room, Georgiana took a deep breath and plastered a smile on her face. On such a happy day as today, she desired to keep her heartbreak to herself.
"Good morning William, Elizabeth," she exclaimed as soon as she entered the room. "Happy anniversary!"
"Thank you Georgiana," Elizabeth beamed. "It is a very happy day."
"How are you feeling? Well, I trust?" asked Georgiana as soon as she sat down in her chair.
"Yes, I am not as sick in the morning anymore," she answered while smiling at Darcy.
Darcy proudly smiled back. Elizabeth was expecting their first child in five months and both were ecstatic.
"Good. I am happy that you aren't as ill," answered Georgiana warmly.
Just then, a footman entered carrying three letters on top of a silver tray. "Sir, these just arrived. There is one for you, Mrs. Darcy, and Miss Georgiana."
"Thank you Bertrand," Darcy replied while taking the letters.
The footman bowed and left the room while Darcy was inspecting the outside of the letters. "They are from Fitzwilliam," Darcy said in astonishment. Darcy, Elizabeth, and Georgiana had not heard from Colonel Fitzwilliam since they were all in Hertfordshire. Considering the situation, all three thought it would be best if they waited for Fitzwilliam to contact them. He had always been a very diligent correspondent with both Darcy and Georgiana and the long drought of communication was attributed to his feelings about his broken engagement.
Darcy quickly handed Elizabeth and Georgiana their letters, then tore open his own. Elizabeth and Georgiana anxiously waited for Darcy to tell them what his letter said. As he quickly skimmed the contents, Darcy's eyes grew very large. "He writes to ask for my forgiveness for his behaviour and to invite us all to his wedding in Scotland. He is to wed Miss Brenda McBride next month."
Both of the women gasped. "Oh yes William. We must attend the wedding!" exclaimed Elizabeth.
Darcy put down the note and looked at his wife. His concern was reflected in his gaze. "Are you sure that will be safe?" he asked.
"Yes, perfectly. I am strong enough to travel," she replied.
"I am sure that Fitzwilliam will understand if we do not go," Darcy suggested.
"Please William? I want to heal the breach and the best way to accomplish that is to attend the wedding. Besides, if we take several days to travel there and are very careful, there will not be any danger and very little discomfort. Please William? This means a great deal to me," Elizabeth begged.
Still unsure of the merits of the scheme, Darcy frowned and looked at his sister questioningly.
"I will be most happy to go and help Elizabeth in any way that I can," offered Georgiana. "I am anxious to see Richard as well. Besides, I do believe it is important for us to try and mend the relationship with the Fitzwilliams."
"Very well," sighed Darcy. "I cannot refuse a request from both of you. I shall make the arrangements. We will not travel very far each day and if Elizabeth grows weary in the slightest, we shall stop. I will not take any chances with the health of either my wife or my first child."
Elizabeth and Georgiana smiled at each other. Darcy looked at both warily and shook his head. It was obvious to him that they teamed up against him, though in his heart he knew, he could not have been happier.
After breakfast was finished, Georgiana took her letter upstairs to her bedchamber to read it in private. She was anxious to read what her cousin had written her about his fiancée.
Though Darcy still harboured some doubts and hesitations about the trip, they set out for Scotland a little more than three weeks after receiving the invitations. Darcy had planned every minute detail, insuring that his party would have a safe and easy trip. They were to travel for two hours every morning, before stopping at a comfortable inn for a leisurely break. Then they would travel another three hours before stopping at another inn for the night.
After traveling for five days, Darcy, Elizabeth, and Georgiana arrived at the church two hours before the ceremony was to begin. As Darcy was helping his wife and Georgiana out of their carriage, another carriage pulled up behind them. Darcy groaned as he immediately recognized the de Bourgh seal on the door.
Within a few seconds, David exited the de Bourgh carriage. "Hello Darcy, Elizabeth, George. It is nice to see you all again," he said with a bow.
"David," Darcy replied in a flat tone.
"Hello David. How is Anne?" asked Elizabeth.
"She is well," he answered. "She cannot attend, but asked me to convey her best wishes to everyone."
"Oh," Georgiana responded quietly.
Chapter 73
"William, it was such a long ride, do you mind if we take a walk? I would like to stretch my legs before we sit again," Georgiana asked.
Darcy looked at his wife nervously, "I would prefer it if we sat and rested, given Elizabeth's condition."
"Oh William, I am fine!" exclaimed Elizabeth.
"Still, I would rather be cautious…"
"Darcy, why don't you let me take George for a walk? We shall be back in few minutes," offered David.
Darcy looked at his sister to make sure she did not disapprove of the scheme before he gave his consent.
"I think I see a pretty path over there," David said while pointing to a narrow footpath, bordered on one side by a field of wild flowers and the other by a small brook. "Shall we?" he asked as he offered his arm.
Georgiana accepted his arm and they walked away. As they walked down the path away from others, Georgiana asked, "How have you been? I have not seen you since Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth's wedding day."
"I have been well. Quite busy actually… Rosings has taken up much of my time over the past year… I understand from my parents that I missed quite a spectacle at the ceremony."
"Yes," Georgiana replied with a blush. "It was very… unique. We did have one marriage though. Mr. Bingley and Miss Bennet married after he revived his bride. The shock of the declaration by Richard was so great that Miss Bennet fainted. However, Mr. Bingley, being deterred from his object once, was not about to let anything stop his wedding. After Richard, Elizabeth, and William left the chapel, Mr. Bingley splashed cool water on her face and Miss Bennet awoke. Once she was well enough, Mr. Bingley managed to calm the crowd and the wedding proceeded. Despite the unexpected incident, it was a lovely ceremony."
"I am glad that they were able to marry. Mr. Bingley and Miss Bennet seemed made for each other," David responded.
"Yes, I believe they are. They are a very happy couple… Recently, Mr. Bingley purchased an estate closer to Pemberley so the Bingleys are frequent guests. Mrs. Bingley is a very kind and cheerful person. I always look forward to their visits."
David turned to Georgiana and looked at her anxiously. "And how is your new sister? Do you like her? Is everything well?"
"Yes, very well," responded Georgiana gleefully. "Elizabeth has been more of a friend to me than I could have ever imagined possible. I doubt that William could have ever found a woman better suited for him, nor I a better sister. She has made both of us very happy."
David gave a relieved smile and nodded his head. "I am glad," he said quietly.
Georgiana turned and stole a glance at her cousin. "I was hoping I would see you at their wedding."
"I am sorry I was not there. I didn't attend Darcy and Elizabeth's wedding because I thought it might be awkward… I am glad that you are here though. I had not expected to see you."
"Nor had we expected an invitation," admitted Georgiana. "About a month ago, we each received a letter from Richard asking our forgiveness and inviting us to his wedding. How is he?" she asked while stealing a glance at him.
"I am not sure," David said uncomfortably. "We have not spoken in some time… About a month ago, I, too, received a letter from Richard inviting me here. In the letter, he mentioned something about trying to correct past wrongs, but did not elaborate as to his meaning… At any rate, he seemed quite happy in the letter."
Georgiana puzzled over his statement. "How is it that Richard now became attached to Miss McBride?"
"It is my understanding that upon his return to Scotland, he threw himself into his work fervently. After six months of working constantly with very little rest, he became quite ill. Apparently, the doctor wasn't sure he would survive. The physician thought Richard didn't have the will to fight his illness. The local residents took sympathy on the young officer who had a broken heart and was alienated from his family, so many of them helped to nurse him back to health. It was while he was recuperating that he and Miss McBride fell in love... At first, she used to read to him every afternoon. Once he felt stronger, they would spend the day discussing philosophy, literature, or politics. She has a keen mind and challenged his views. I suppose that over these debates, he realized he was in love… I am very happy for him. I am relieved that he has recovered from his disappointment."
"I am too," Georgiana answered quietly. As they walked on, Georgiana's mind filled with a million questions, but she wasn't sure where to start. After a minute she asked, "How is it to be the new owner of Rosings Park?"
David shook his head. "Our Aunt Catherine was a pernicious woman. I hate to speak ill of the dead, but that is the truth. I'm sure that when her husband left his entire estate to her in his will, he never dreamed she would disinherit their only child. Who would have thought that Aunt Catherine would have been so angry at Anne for her elopement to her stable hand that she would have changed her will only leaving Anne one pound and a vicious letter outlining all that she was losing? I did everything in my power to dissuade her from her path and prevent her from humiliating her daughter. I eventually moved in to Rosings to try to use my close proximity to influence her. But to her last, she was unpersuadable. She denounced Anne and her marriage until her last breath."
"Poor Anne…"
"Yes, poor Anne indeed. They never had a chance to mend their differences before Aunt Catherine died. Despite our aunt's cruel nature, Anne loved her mother dearly."
"What will you do with Rosings now that it is yours?"
David shook his head again. "Aunt Catherine left me the estate in such a way that I cannot give or sell it to Anne or her husband. However, the will does not state that I cannot lease it to her."
"Is that what you are planning to do?"
"Yes, in fact that is why I am riding in Aunt Catherine's carriage. I am on my way to Anne to deliver it to her. As you know, Anne has never been very strong. It will be much easier for her to travel in it than the old cart she and her husband currently owns. For one pound a year, I am giving Anne the entire Rosings estate, including any income made off of the properties, and I will be paying for some of their servants' salaries as well as upkeep on the house."
"In other words, you are giving Anne her inheritance."
"Yes. Lady Catherine never understood me. She always thought that I disliked Anne because of my brusque treatment of her. In truth I always felt sorry for her, but I knew if I made my sentiments known, Lady Catherine would have wanted me to marry her."
"So instead you ignored Anne?"
"Yes, and I rudely told Aunt Catherine that I would never marry her. Sometimes those who are rude only understand like behaviour. That is when Aunt Catherine turned her attentions towards Darcy. Your brother is too much the gentleman to be as brutally honest as I was. As a result, she pestered him for years whereas I went on relatively unscathed."
"Aunt Catherine is probably turning over in her grave."
"I suspect she is. She left me her entire fortune save one pound because she believed I would be the last to help her daughter. She thought that my sole motivation for wanting to keep Rosings in the de Bourgh family was simply for appearances. It was her belief that once she died and the estate was left to me, I would keep it for myself. Now, I am on my way to deliver her carriage to Anne. Once she has children, I will draw up my will so that what should be rightfully theirs will find its way back to them."
"You are quite generous. Another person in your situation might not have done the same."
"No, it has nothing to do with being generous. I must follow through with what is right and just."
A silence fell over the pair as they continued to walk along the path. After a few moments, Georgiana gathered up her courage and nervously began, "In the letter to me announcing his upcoming marriage, Richard wrote that you told him on the morning of his wedding day that William and Elizabeth loved each other. He said that you endangered your relationship with him to try and prevent the wedding. He claims that as a direct result of your interference, neither of you has spoken to the other since that morning. Is this true?"
David hesitated a moment before answering, "Yes."
"On behalf of my brother, my sister, and I, I want to thank you. I know it much have been incredibly difficult for you. It must have pained you to hurt your brother so. I cannot begin to explain the joy Elizabeth has brought into our lives. I never imagined that William could be so happy. I know that had William and Elizabeth known of your selfless act, they would have thanked you as well."
"I wasn't being selfless," David replied quietly. "And I doubt it was your brother I was thinking of, even though that is what I told myself. In truth, I doubt I was even concerned with my own brother." David stopped walking, turned to Georgiana, took her hands in his, and looked deep into her eyes. "All I could think of was you. I knew how unhappy you were seeing your brother in pain so I had to try and remedy the situation."
Georgiana turned her face away from him to hide her delight at hearing his admission. In her heart, she knew that they always shared a special bond from when she was young. She had always been his favourite and he had always been her knight in shining armour. Over the past year, she had replayed their relationship over and over again in her mind. She realized that there was no one else she could ever love more.
As she turned back to look at him, a look of extreme agitation like she had never seen washed over his face. "George… Georgiana…" he nervously began. "You know that I have always cared for you… But in the past year, I have realized that my feelings have progressed beyond what they once were… I think about you constantly… I find I cannot live without you. Georgiana, I love you. You are the dearest, most precious thing in the world to me… I know that I do not deserve such happiness, but what I am attempting to ask is will you…"
"Kneel down," Georgiana commanded sternly.
"Excuse me?"
"You heard me the first time."
David was surprised by her command, but dutifully bent down on one knee. His agitation was so great, he took a deep breath and could barely lift his head to look at her face. "Georgiana Darcy, will you…"
"Yes! Yes I will marry you dearest David!" she burst out, unable to contain her excitement.
David exhaled and broke out into a large smile. "May I rise now?" he asked playfully.
"Only if you agree to kiss me," she said with a large smile.
As he slowly rose and drew her near, he cupped her face in his hands. He slowly and deliberately gave her a soft kiss, which grew in intensity and passion. After a minute, he stopped to caress her face and look lovingly into her eyes. "Tell me, do you intend to give me this many problems when we are married?"
"Many more," she responded archly.
"Then I shall be truly happy," he answered with a large smile.
Epilogue
Andrew Bingley looked up at his father wide eyed. He and his father had been standing outside of their home for quite a while as his father explained the real events behind his parents' and his aunt and uncle's courtship and marriage. During his father's lengthy recitation, Andrew stood silent. The family history that was being revealed shocked him. Eventually, he could hold his tongue no longer. "Is that really what happened? Is that how you and mother and Uncle and Aunt Darcy married?"
Charles Bingley smiled as he looked down at his son. "More or less."
"And Lord and Lady Wallingford, did they get married right away? I suppose they lived happily ever after too?"
Charles's smile faded. "Well, not exactly… I suppose that is why Darcy failed to mention David's existence to Miss Austen when telling her the tale of his courtship with Elizabeth..."
"But I don't understand," Andrew sputtered.
Just then, the door to the house opened. A beautiful, serene woman peered out from the house. With her porcelain like skin, she did not look a day over twenty-five, though she was over ten years older. "Charles, Andrew, are you two ever going to come inside?" called Jane from the doorway.
"Yes my love, we are coming," answered Charles. "Right away."
Andrew frowned slightly. "Father, will you tell me the story of Lord and Lady Wallingford later?"
Charles patted Andrew on the shoulder. "Yes, if you are very good I will tell you someday. In the meantime, let us get inside. I'm sure your mother is anxious to see you." Then with a nod, he proceeded into the house.
Andrew lingered a moment, wanting to look around him and drink in his surroundings. With a deeper understanding and appreciation of history, he followed his father, thankful that fortune had smiled on his family.
Finis