The Wedding Singer - Section III

By Gail W

Chapter 18

Posted on Friday, 4 February 2000

Lizzy's intuition proved to be correct. Mr. Gardiner's health deteriorated each day that week. While he was still aware of his surroundings, the increasing doses of pain medication caused him to tire easily and the Bennet sisters, along with their friends, were forced to limit their daily visits to an hour or less.

The following week, Charlotte had a day off from work and joined Lizzy and Jane for lunch. It was the first time the friends had spoken since their dinner party.

"How does your grandfather do?" Charlotte asked.

"Not well I'm afraid," Lizzy replied. "The doctor does not think he will last another week. He is eating very little now and nothing is being done for him except for pain medication. At least he is still lucid and knows us all. Jane and I visit him every morning and my parents go every afternoon. Our younger sisters had been joining us but stopped going earlier this week. Seeing Papa in this state is very difficult for them and they would like to remember him as he was."

"No more difficult than for you and Jane or your parents, I imagine."

"No, but they are young and not used to dealing with such things. My parents think it is for the best and I tend to agree.

"Lizzy, you didn't mention who else has been going with us to visit Papa." Jane injected.

"Oh yes. Charlotte, William Darcy and his sister and cousin have been part of our daily excursion. In fact, William has been so generous as to allow us the use of a limousine and driver every day. It has been a Godsend for us to not have to drive ourselves every day. He even brings us breakfast every morning."

"Rick gave me a ride home the other night and told me about William providing the limo but did not mention that they were going with you. Why would they want to visit your grandfather?"

"At first Georgiana wanted to come merely as an act of friendship and William joined her one day. But as it turns out my grandparents lived for a time next door to the Fitzwilliam family in California and knew William's mother and Rick's father as children. Later my grandparents became reacquainted with William's parents and they had dinner and went to plays in the city once a month for several years until my grandmother died."

"Wow, what a coincidence! It certainly is a small world!"

"Yes, it is pretty amazing. Anyway, once Rick heard that my grandfather knew his father as a boy, he started coming with us as well. He and the Darcys have greatly enjoyed hearing stories about their parents as children. And you know how Papa loves to tell stories. He has been in his element. I am grateful to Rick, William and Georgiana for helping to make my grandfather's last days so enjoyable."

"How wonderful for him, but for them as well." Charlotte had visited the Bennet sisters' grandfather many times when they were younger and knew how gregarious he was.

"And for us too," added Jane. "We've learned much more than we ever knew about our grandparents and have made three very good friends besides. And since Charles is best friends with William and also friends with Rick, it's been great for me to become acquainted with them."

"Well Lizzy," Charlotte continued. "I'm glad you brought up William Darcy because there is something I wish to discuss with you about him."

"Charlotte, you just met the man. What could you possibly want to discuss?" After the way she was hanging all over him the other night, Lizzy was afraid Charlotte was going to say they were dating.

Charlotte noticed the look of panic that briefly washed over Lizzy's face. What is she afraid of? Does she think I have an interest in William Darcy? Is she jealous? "I know I just met him, but I have to admit I liked him right away." Lizzy's face fell. Aha, she is jealous! Look at that face! "After you guys left us the other night, I went back to William's house and he and I talked for a long time. Lizzy, I think he loves you!"

"What?" Lizzy looked at Charlotte in astonishment. "How can you say that?"

"All he could talk about was you. I must confess, I asked him out on a date but he declined saying he was too messed up after the Caroline thing, but then he went on and on about you. If he's not yet in love with you, he is well on his way."

Jane chimed in, "Lizzy, I think I agree with Charlotte and so does Charles. We have seen the way William looks at you and it is evident he is feels much more than friendship towards you."

"How do you feel about him?" Charlotte asked.

"I don't know," Lizzy admitted. "He is a wonderful, kind, generous man. And so very handsome! Sigh! I've tried to think of him as a friend and no more because I am an engaged woman. But I must also make a confession. I think about him all the time and dream about him every night. And girls, he is one great kisser!" Lizzy grinned broadly and winked.

Jane laughed and related the story of the wedding kiss demonstration to Charlotte.

"Well I am a bit jealous Lizzy, but I may be persuaded to forget William in favor of his cousin. I found him very charming when he drove me home and he has called a couple of times since then. Unfortunately it's been only to talk. Even though we've had some interesting discussions, what I really want is for him to ask me out on a date."

Poor Mary! Lizzy thought. "Why don't you ask him then? Maybe he's not sure you are interested and is waiting for you to make the first move."

"Hey, we were discussing you and William. How did this conversation get onto me?" Charlotte complained. "Now Lizzy, what are you going to do? And what about George?"

"I don't know Charlotte. I am very confused about George right now. He was all contradiction last weekend. Sometimes nice as pie and other times indifferent. And he doesn't call me during the week even though he knows how concerned I am about Papa. I think he has a lot on his mind with work, but I am very tired of playing second fiddle to his job. I can't think of William as other than a friend, albeit a good friend, until I have resolved what I am going to do about George."

"I know what I would do about George if I were you. I know Jane thinks I should mind my own business but Lizzy, I do not like that man and I do not think he treats you very well. Why you stay with him is beyond me."

Jane was appalled at their friend's bluntness. "Charlotte, Lizzy has to make up her own mind."

"I know, but I am her best friend and if I can't speak openly to her than who can? You certainly won't." Charlotte glared back at Jane.

"Come on you two," Lizzy interceded, "please don't argue over me. I understand your feelings Charlotte and I do appreciate your concern but Jane is right, it is my problem."

"So what are you going to do about it?" Charlotte persisted. "Lizzy I only want your happiness, you must know that."

"Charlotte, I do but it's difficult for me to deal with this right now with my grandfather's condition. He has to be my first concern. George promised he would spend the whole of this coming weekend with me but since I will be at Papa's house most of the time, I'll see how George behaves himself. I swear Charlotte that I will resolve this one way or another soon. OK, I'm going to admit it right here, right now, to my dearest sister and my best friend. I do have feelings for William Darcy. That in itself leads me to believe that I am not still in love with George. If that is indeed the case, it is only fair to tell him before we get any further into this wedding business. I will not pull a Caroline and leave him standing at the altar!"

Chapter 19

Posted on Friday, 4 February 2000

Mr. Gardiner took a turn for the worse that weekend. He was now heavily medicated and slept most of the time. Occasionally he would open his eyes and look at the people around his bed but they were not certain if he even knew who they were. Lizzy and her parents stayed for most of the weekend along with Jane and Charles, her parents even slept over. William, Rick and Georgiana had once again declined to visit when George was present (although they made other excuses to Lizzy, Jane knew the truth via Charles).

George showed up as promised on Friday night and took Lizzy to a movie. He tried to be the supportive fiancé on Saturday but sitting around a sick room wore on his nerves. He had driven his own car and left Saturday afternoon to go back to the city. By that point Lizzy didn't care anymore.

Lizzy and Jane also left late Saturday afternoon as they had an engagement to perform with their sisters at a wedding that evening. They promised to return first thing Sunday morning. Charles accompanied them home. Exhausted and emotionally drained, both Lizzy and Jane collapsed on the couch at the apartment for a few minutes before getting ready to go out.

Lizzy asked Charles for a favor. "Would you do me a favor and call William and tell him the status of my grandfather? I'm sure he would not want Georgiana to visit again and actually he and Rick probably won't want to either. Please tell him we appreciate all they have done and we will let them know about funeral arrangements." Charles agreed and Lizzy went to take a shower.

When she had left the room, Jane added, "Make sure you tell him that George has gone."

"Why would you have me tell him that Jane?"

"Oh, I don't know. He just may be interested in knowing. Charles, I'm going to tell you something but you must promise not to tell William."

"My lips are sealed my love."

"Lizzy confessed to Charlotte and I a few days ago that she has feelings for William."

"Interesting. What about George?"

"She also admitted that she is confused about him and that the fact she has feelings for William must mean she does not love George. She is thinking about calling off the wedding."

"Hallelujah! You were right Jane. You said she would come to her senses."

Lizzy was surprised to find William waiting for them in the limo on Sunday morning. Jane and Charles did not find his presence that unexpected.

"William! I did not expect to have your company today. Are you sure you want to come? We may be there for several hours."

"Elizabeth, I want to be there for your family. I thought I might be able to be of some use. Perhaps go out for food or anything anybody needs. I hope you don't mind."

"Of course I don't mind. But you've already given us so much and I don't want you to feel obligated."

"Not at all. It is what I want to do Elizabeth. Please allow me," he pleaded. She smiled and nodded. Jane and Charles gave each other pleased looks and held hands tightly.

Fran Bennet looked exhausted when her daughters and their friends arrived. "She stayed up with him all night," Tom Bennet explained.

"Why don't you get some rest then Mother. We will wake you immediately if there is any change." Jane led her mother to the guest bedroom.

Mrs. Bennet slept only a couple hours and joined the others talking quietly in Papa's room. He was now in a coma. Every so often the nurse would give him more pain medication and turn him. In the afternoon, she pointed out that his hands and feet were turning purple, which meant his circulation had slowed down. She said it probably wouldn't be more than a few hours. In the late afternoon Mr. Gardiner's minister stopped by and prayed with them.

William took Lizzy's hand in his and she let him hold it. She was glad that he had insisted on joining them that day as he was a great comfort to her. Her parents wondered at his presence but didn't mention it. It wasn't the time or place.

Jane and Lizzy decided to stay the night and tried to send Charles and William home but they would not go. Instead they went out to get Chinese food for everyone. When they returned, William let the chauffeur leave and told him not to return until he was called for.

The evening was spent quietly. The Bennets simply wanted to be in the presence of Mr. Gardiner during his final hours. Lizzy and Jane related to their parents some of their grandfather's memoirs. Mrs. Bennet had differing versions of some of the stories, which led Mr. Bennet to create a third version that was a comic blending of the other two. This amusement helped break the tension. Lizzy felt a great tenderness towards her mother. While in the past she had often found it difficult to respect this woman who had given her life, in her adulthood she was now coming to understand her mother as a person as well as a parent. She knew her mother only wanted what was best for her family and that she loved them all dearly. So what if she was sometimes frivolous? What was once a major irritation to Lizzy now seemed insignificant.

None of the Bennets were willing to leave the room for any reason except when bodily functions required it. William and Charles made coffee, brought pillows and blankets and rubbed aching shoulders. Late at night Jane and Charles dozed off leaning on each other while Mrs. Bennet slept in her chair. Lizzy moved her seat closer to her grandfather so she could hold his hand. His breathing was becoming ragged and periodically he would stop breathing all together for a few moments. The nurse assured her that this was to be expected, but Lizzy would hold her own breath until his resumed.

Mr. Bennet surveyed the sick room. He was proud of his eldest daughters for the support they were giving their mother. While his wife was often a silly woman, he loved her for her fierce loyalty to her family. She took prodigious care of all of them. He smiled affectionately at her sleeping form and then his glance fell on Lizzy. His second daughter was intelligent and witty but he loved her best for those qualities she shared with her mother. He didn't know what was going on with her and George or why William Darcy watched her so intently but he knew Lizzy would sort it all out. He did think that George had been neglectful as of late and this Darcy fellow seemed to be a very good man. He just wanted his daughter to be happy. Tom then looked at Jane and Charles and was satisfied that his eldest was already there.

Warning: this section contains a realistic death scene. If you think you may it disturbing, please skip to Chapter 20.

As dawn was just beginning to break over the horizon, William woke up with a start. It took him a moment to remember where he was, then he looked around and noticed everyone was asleep. Lizzy was still holding her grandfather's hand and had fallen asleep with her head on his bed. William went to the bathroom and when he returned, he saw that Mr. Gardiner had opened his eyes for the first time in more than two days.

"Elizabeth," he whispered, shaking her shoulder gently. She opened her sleepy eyes to look at him and he motioned to her grandfather.

"Papa," she said aloud, seeing he was awake. "Hello Papa. Have you woken up? How are you today? Mother!" This last word was spoken loudly and everyone started stirring.

The family members gathered around Mr. Gardiner's bed talking to him. While his eyes were open, he didn't appear to see them or to be looking at anything in particular. William and Charles hung back, with the nurse. "This is it," she said quietly.

Suddenly Mr. Gardiner sat up and made a little noise that sounded like a soft sneeze. Then he laid back down and went still. Within seconds his skin lost all of its color. The Bennets looked at the nurse questioningly. She came over, closed Mr. Gardiner's eyes and held his wrist briefly. "He's gone," she said. "I'll go call the doctor." She left the room. Charles moved behind Jane and put his arms around her waist. William stood alone feeling helpless, not knowing what to do.

After a moment of shock when not a sound was heard, Mrs. Bennet started to cry. "Why is she calling the doctor? He's dead?" she wailed. Mr. Bennet explained that a doctor was required to officially pronounce death and sign the death certificate. "Let you mother have some time alone with him," said Mr. Bennet to the others. "Then you can have your turn." Lizzy and Jane nodded and went to the living room with Charles and William.

Chapter 20

Posted on Friday, 4 February 2000

Charles pulled Jane down next to him on the sofa. William sat on an easy chair and took Lizzy's hand, patting his lap. She took the hint and sat down, resting her head on his shoulder. He held her tightly and stroked her hair as she started to cry softly. A few minutes later Mr. Bennet joined them and asked Jane to make coffee. Charles led her to the kitchen with his arm around her.

Later Charles and William waited while Jane and Lizzy spent some private time with their grandfather's body. When the women returned, the men were waiting to comfort them. William again led Lizzy to the chair so he could hold her on his lap. He didn't do this for his own pleasure but because he sensed that she was comforted by this closeness. Whether her need was for him, or if any warm body would do, he didn't know but he wanted to be there for her. He wanted to protect her, comfort her, support her always.

The doctor had called the funeral home and they came to retrieve the body. Charles thought this might be difficult for the girls to witness and suggested they go out for breakfast. Mr. Bennet agreed with him and chased them out, with a plan to meet them at the funeral home in an hour to make the necessary arrangements.

Jane and Lizzy urged Charles and William go home. They would ride home with their parents after all the arrangements had been attended to. Their younger sisters still needed to be told and they wanted to spend some private time with just the family. Then phone calls to other relatives and friends needed to be made. Jane promised to call Charles later in the day. William insisted that he and Charles drive Mr. Bennet's car home leaving the limo for the family as none of them were in any shape to drive. Lizzy accepted and gave William a hug. "Thank you for being here for us today. My family appreciates it."

"If you will thank me, let it be for yourself alone. As much as I respect your family, I believe I thought only of you."

Lizzy looked at him with tears in her eyes and hugged him again. "It means a lot to me that you were here with me through all of this. Thank you from me." William put his arms around her for a moment and kissed her forehead. "Please call me later," he whispered. Lizzy nodded.

The next few days were confusing ones for William. He thought he and Lizzy had grown close. He thought Lizzy was feeling something more than friendship for him. But all through the wake and funeral, George was the one by Lizzy's side. George was there with the family accepting condolences at the wake, holding onto Lizzy's arm. George rode with the family in the limo at the funeral. William felt entirely left out. Had he mistaken Elizabeth's behavior? Was he simply a friend to her? And while he was treated very warmly by the Bennets, he was still treated like a guest, not like family. William found himself very envious of Charles and hating George with a vengeance.

Georgiana and Rick attended these events with William and knew his anguish went far beyond his sadness at Mr. Gardiner's death.

The day before the funeral William had heard from his private investigator and learned that George was in serious financial difficulty. He was heavily in debt and on the brink of bankruptcy. The investigator had not yet looked into George's employment situation or friends and William asked him to continue.

This news only caused him more bewilderment as to why George wanted to marry Lizzy. She had nothing that could help his situation and he would only end up pulling her into his downfall. William would not allow that to happen. But what could he do? Lizzy was evidently still attached to George and seemed to think of William merely as a friend. But he had to protect her somehow. He had to.

After the funeral, the Darcy siblings and Rick went back to the Bennets' house. They stayed for several hours and soon were the only ones left besides the family and a few close friends. William noticed that George had snuck out a couple hours earlier. That was fine with him. It allowed him to get nearer to where Lizzy was and join in on her conversations. But she was surrounded by people all day and he never was able to speak with her alone. Seeing that all the Bennets looked exhausted, William suggested to Georgiana and Rick that they leave. Charles caught up to them outside.

"Jane and Lizzy just want to go home and crash so I'm on my own tonight. Would you guys like to go out somewhere?"

"Sure," William replied. "Rick has to leave to go back to his base in the morning so let's send him off right. We'll drop Georgie off, change and meet you back at your house in a little while."

An hour later the trio was at a bar, drinking and conversing. Although he knew better, William was once again overindulging. His confusion over Lizzy's conflicting behavior caused a lapse in his better judgement. "Did you guys see that George was hanging all over Elizabeth today? I have to say, the sight of that man makes me sick."

"Yes, but I noticed he didn't hang around long after the funeral," Charles replied, then added sarcastically, "He had something better to do, I dare say, than be with his fiancé."

"I overheard him ask Mr. Bennet when the reading of Mr. Gardiner's will would take place," Rick added. "Now why would he care about that? I'm sure Mr. Gardiner left whatever he had to Mrs. Bennet. Probably just the house anyway and maybe some life insurance."

William pondered this comment, taking into account what he had learned from the private investigator.

"I know the sisters aren't expecting anything," Charles said. "I discussed it with Jane before he died."

Several drinks later Charles started talking about Jane and how happy he was to be engaged to her.

"She's the most beautiful, wonderful woman in the world." He grinned happily at his friends.

"What do you say to that William?" Rick asked mischievously. "Do you agree with Charles? Or do you have another candidate?"

"I have to admit that Jane is a wonderful woman and Charles is extremely fortunate to be marrying her," William offered. "But no one can compare to Elizabeth. She is the most kind, caring, beautiful, intelligent, sexy, wonderful, charming, gorgeous, funny, warm woman in the entire universe."

"William, it sounds like you are in love with her."

The alcohol caused William to speak openly. "Yes Rick, I am. I love Elizabeth Bennet. There, I've said it. I love Elizabeth Bennet."

Just then their attention was drawn by a large group of loud, drunken people entering the bar. In the midst of the party they spied George Wickham hanging all over a scantily dressed blonde. William recognized her as the woman from the restaurant that George was drooling over all night. He was furious. How could George do this to Lizzy? And just a few hours after her grandfather's funeral.

William stood and walked over to George. Rick and Charles watched in panic and tacitly decided to join him and keep him out of trouble.

"What do you think you're doing?" William hissed to George, grabbing his arm.

Momentarily surprised by this sudden interference, George quickly regained his composure and told Julie to sit down and he would join her in a minute. "Let's talk outside," he said to William. Seeing Rick and Charles standing near by he added, "alone." William nodded to the others and left the bar with George. Charles and Rick were uneasy and watched them from a window. Charles quickly paid the bar tab in case they had to leave in a hurry.

As soon as they were outside William lit into George, "How can you do this to Elizabeth? You are engaged to the woman and her grandfather just died. What are you doing with that cheap floozy?"

"Hey, don't talk about her like that. She's a very nice girl." George retorted. "And what little Lizzy doesn't know won't hurt her. You better not say anything and tell your friends that too. You don't want to break poor Lizzy's heart do you?"

"I can't believe you, man!" William shouted. "You don't appreciate what you have. Elizabeth is a beautiful, kind, caring woman and you sneak around behind her back. How can you even think of marrying her? Is this how you plan to treat her when you're married? I won't allow this to happen."

"Look Darcy, this is none of your business. I think you have a little crush on Lizzy but you stay away from her. I'm the one she's going to marry and I'm the one that's going to end up in her bed."

Rick and Charles saw that William was about to hit George and ran outside to stop him. They held his arms as George laughed at him. "You are pitiful Darcy," he said and went back into the bar. William struggled to break free but his drinking had sapped his strength and his two friends controlled him easily. "Forget it William," said his cousin, "that scumbag isn't worth it. Let's go home."

Wanting some fresh air, William sat outside when they returned home. Rick was leaving very early in the morning so they said their good-byes and Rick went up to bed. William put his poor muddled head in his arms and thought about Lizzy. What is going on with her? Certainly George still believes they are to marry. How can I let her marry such a man? No, he's not a man, he's scum. My sweet Elizabeth, how can I make you see the truth? But she sees me only as a friend. Now that her grandfather is dead I have no excuse to see her everyday. She'll forget all about me. William had convinced himself that all was lost.

"William?" A soft voice stirred him from his miserable drunken stupor.

"What are you doing here Caroline?" he asked.

"I had to see you. I love you."

"What?" he asked, confused.

"William, I have missed you terribly. I would like for us to get back together. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me? I have realized that I really do love you and I want to marry you. Can we at least try?"

"Caroline, I don't want to be alone any more," William murmured softly, then passed out cold.

Chapter 21

Posted on Monday, 7 February 2000

Author's note: the scenes with Caroline in this chapter are adapted from the movie.

"Where are you off to so early this morning Lizzy?" Jane asked her sister the next day.

"Jane, I'm going to tell William how I feel about him. I stayed up all night thinking about my situation. Papa's death made me put my life into perspective, made me realize what is really important to me. You saw how George was the last few days. Always the charmer when others were around but practically ignoring me otherwise. And he couldn't wait to leave us yesterday afternoon to go back to the city. He didn't even have the decency to stay until all the guests were gone. Jane he obviously doesn't love me and I don't love him anymore. I cannot marry him."

"OK Lizzy, you don't love George anymore. I have to say I am relieved. However, what does that have to do with how you feel about William?"

"I told you before I have feelings for William. I have tried to suppress them but they will not be denied. Jane, I love him. I love him dearly. He is such a good, decent man. He was so supportive during this whole ordeal and he looked so sad yesterday that it tore my heart to shreds."

"And do you think he returns your feelings?"

"I don't know. I hope so. Charlotte seems to think so and you said you do as well."

"I do, but I can't know for certain. Only William can tell you that."

"Then I have to take the chance. I have to tell him how I feel and then see what happens."

"Do you think it's right to speak to him before you tell George it is over?"

"I can't wait Jane. I probably won't see George until Saturday and it's only Thursday. I have to talk to William right now."

"Then I wish you luck, my dear sister. My only wish is for you to be as happy as I am."

Lizzy kissed her sister affectionately and left the apartment.

Lizzy's arrival was announced to the housekeeper by the guard at the gate. Caroline came downstairs in her negligee and saw that Mrs. Reynolds was about to answer the door.

"Who is here, Mrs. Reynolds?" The housekeeper spun around in amazement at the sound of that voice. What is she doing here?

"M-Miss Elizabeth B-Bennet," she stammered.

"Lizzy Bennet? Jane's sister? I'll take care of this." Mrs. Reynolds nodded uncomfortably. What exactly was Caroline going to 'take care' of? She wondered if she should go tell Mr. William. I better wait until I know what's going on first. He won't take kindly to my interference if he invited Miss Caroline here. But how could he? You'd have to be an idiot not to see he's in love with Miss Elizabeth.

Caroline waited until Mrs. Reynolds was gone before opening the door. "Can I help you?"

Lizzy was flustered to see Caroline at the Darcy home and in a flimsy nightgown. "Um, um, I was wondering if Mr. Darcy was home. I'd like to speak to him please."

"I am afraid my fiancé is indisposed this morning. You should have phoned first. Can I give him a message?"

"Caroline, I am Lizzy Bennet, Jane's sister. We met a few weeks ago."

"Oh yes, how nice to see you again." Caroline's tone was not at all convincing.

"Would you please tell William that I came by to see him?"

"Sure, Lyddie."

"It's Elizabeth." Caroline shut the door in Lizzy's face.

Lizzy was devastated by the meeting with Caroline. Her fiancé? How could that be? She left him standing at the altar. Surely he would not take her back! Lizzy was resolved to call Georgiana later and get the scoop. She could only hope that Caroline was lying to her. But if that was the case why would she be at his house? And answering the door in her nightgown? No, it must be true! How could I have been such a simpleton to believe William could have feelings for me? He told me that he asked Caroline to marry him because she was in the same social class. I'm so very far out of his league, he couldn't possibly consider a relationship with me. How could I have supposed that he loves me? He was just showing his appreciation for my friendship with his sister.

On a whim, Lizzy drove to George's apartment. Maybe he hadn't left for the city yet. She needed to see him.

Caroline was attempting to wake William up. "Come on love. It's the first day of our new life together."

William opened his eyes and looked at Caroline groggily. "What are you doing here?"

"Don't you remember? You passed out. I took care of you." (Well, actually she made sure the hired help took care of him.)

"Why did you take care of me?"

"I told you last night that I realized I was wrong and I want to take care of you for good. I can learn to deal with having kids and living in the country."

"Learn to deal with it?" William was angry. "I don't want you to learn to deal with it. That's not how it works."

This conversation was not going at all as Caroline had intended and she was getting nervous. "Maybe we should wait and talk about this when you're feeling better."

"I'm not going to feel better about this. It's over. Please get out."

"Oh, I get it. You're still pissed off about that wedding thing."

Caroline suddenly found herself in the hallway with William's bedroom door closed in her face. She went back to the guestroom to collect her belongings. Maybe this hadn't been such a good idea after all.

Lizzy held her finger down on the buzzer for a full minute. She wanted to make sure that if George was there he could hear it, even if he was still in bed.

"What!" a hoarse voice roared over the intercom.

"George, it's Lizzy. I want to talk to you."

"Lizzy?" What is she doing here?

"Yes, you know me. We are engaged."

"Of course I know you. I'm just surprised you are here." I told her I was going to the city last night. Why would she show up here? What could she want?

"Well let me in and I'll explain it to you. I feel foolish talking to the wall."

"Sure just a minute." George pushed the buzzer to allow her access to the building. Then he rushed around picking up Julie's clothes. He hurried to the bedroom and woke her up. "Hey, Lizzy's here. Stay quiet and whatever you do, DON'T COME OUT! I'll shut the door." He heard a knock on the apartment door. "S**t!" He grabbed his bathrobe and went to let Lizzy in. Seeing one of Julie's shoes, he kicked it under the sofa. He prayed that nothing else of hers was lying around.

"Lizzy honey, nice of you to come by. How did you know I'd be here?"

"I didn't George. I just took a chance that you hadn't left yet. I wanted to see you."

"That's sweet, doll face." He put his arms around her but Lizzy turned her head so his kiss ended up on her cheek.

"Can I come in?"

"Of course." George allowed her entry and motioned to a chair, while he took a seat opposite her on the sofa. She sat down and looked around. Lizzy had never been overly fond of George's apartment. It was too modern for her taste. All glass, chrome and black leather. But today it looked a little warmer somehow, there seemed to be a little more color. "It looks different in here. Did you make some changes?"

"Just new drapes, some throw pillows and Tiffany lamps. But I'm sure you didn't come here to inspect my interior decorating skills."

"No, I'm just surprised because I didn't think you cared about such things."

"I'm full of surprises, baby. Anyway, how are you sweetie, after yesterday? It was a tough day. I liked the old guy." Lizzy just nodded her head at George's impromptu show of concern. "So when is the reading of the will? Would you like me to go with you babe? You know, for support? I understand the old guy left a video and that might be tough for you to watch. Just let me know and I'll be there to hold your hand."

"That won't be necessary George. Actually I came today to tell you that I have decided I cannot marry you. The engagement is off, George, and I do not wish to continue this relationship." Lizzy appeared remarkably calm even though her heart was pounding wildly.

Stunned, George jumped off the sofa and knelt down next to Lizzy's chair, taking her hand in his. "What are you saying Lizzy? I love you sweetie. Why are you doing this?"

"I'm tired of your games. I'm tired of playing second fiddle to your job. You are never around when I need you and you don't even bother to pick up the phone to call me. The first few months of our relationship were lovely but now I feel you take me for granted and we're not even married yet. It can only go downhill from here."

"Lizzy, baby, please honey, don't do this to me. I love you like crazy. You have to know that. I promise I'll do better. Work has been nuts lately but I think it's starting to settle down. I'll even come home every night if you want me to - I'll take that 2-hour train ride twice a day for you. I love you Lizzy."

"You don't seem to understand, George. I don't want you to do that for me. It would have been nice if you had done it because you wanted to. But you didn't and now it's too late. I don't love you anymore George. It's over."

George started weeping. Believe me, dear readers, when I tell you these were real tears. George was watching his chance at riches evaporate right in front of his eyes. But Lizzy was not moved. She had seen too many false displays of emotion from this man to ever trust him again. "I'm sorry to cause pain George, but there is no changing my mind. It is over."

George saw red and stood up glaring at her. "You b***h," he spat. "Fine, you'll never have it as good as you would have with me. Go ahead and leave. I never loved you anyway, 'Miss Virginity', you're as frigid as an icicle. You always thought you were so high and mighty. I was glad you wouldn't sleep with me because the thought of that makes me gag."

Lizzy rose and stared at him with distaste. His anger only made her resolve that much firmer. "Goodbye George. It was nice knowing you." She walked toward the door.

Now out of control, George grabbed her arm roughly. "I suppose you'll go running to that William Darcy now. He has a little bitty crush on you. He's not a man, he's a wimp. But then again, you never knew how to handle a real man."

"That's quite enough George. I'm not breaking up with you because there is someone else. And your behavior is only proving me correct in my actions. However, because you brought up William, I will say that he is more of a man than you will ever be."

CRACK!! George slapped Lizzy across the face. Tears sprang from her eyes as she yelped in pain. "Don't you touch me George!" she screamed. "I'll call the police!"

Suddenly the bedroom door opened and a sleepy blond dressed only in one of George's dress shirts came into the living room. "What is all the yelling out here? What are you doing George?"

Lizzy looked from George to Julie and back again. Then she fled from the apartment.

Chapter 22

Posted on Tuesday, 8 February 2000

Lizzy was home less than an hour after she had left. Jane took one look at her tear-streaked face with the big red welt across her cheek and pulled Lizzy into her arms.

"What happened honey? Was I mistaken about William's regard for you? And what happened to your face? It looks like someone hit you."

"Oh Jane, it was awful!" Lizzy sobbed. She couldn't speak for a few moments and Jane just held her. Then there was a soft tap at the front door.

"That will be Charles. He took the rest of the week off to be with me. Let me open the door for him. Come sit on the sofa honey."

Jane opened the door and pushed Charles outside. She followed him out and closed the door behind her. He looked at her quizzically.

"I'm sorry to be so rude my love. Lizzy went to see William this morning to tell him she loves him and..."

"Wonderful!" Charles interrupted. "Do I offer my congratulations?"

"Charles, please, listen to me. She just came home a few minutes ago crying and I haven't been able to find out what happened yet. Even worse, it looks like she was hit."

"What?! William would never do that!"

"I don't know that it was William. Let's just see if we can get her to tell us what happened."

"OK Jane, lead the way."

They joined Lizzy in the living room. Jane sat on one side of her and Charles on the other. Lizzy's sobs had subsided to an occasional hiccup.

"Honey, won't you tell us what happened?" Jane asked in her most soothing voice.

"Oh Jane, I went to William's house and Caroline was there in her hic! nightie. She wouldn't let me see William. She said he was unwell and referred to him hic! as her fiancé!"

Charles choked, "her fiancé?"

"That's what she said. Oh Jane, hic! what should I do?"

"Did Caroline slap you?" Charles croaked, afraid of the response.

"No that was George," sniffed Lizzy. Jane felt ill.

"What?! I'll kill him!" Charles was appalled. This day was getting worse and worse and it wasn't even 10:00. "Where did you see George and why did he slap you?"

"After I left William's house, I just decided to see if by some chance hic! George was still at his apartment. I don't know why. He told me he was going back to the city last night, but I just had a feeling he would be home. And he was, so I went in to tell him our hic! relationship is over. He said some nasty things to me, I retaliated and he slapped me. I think he might have done worse if his girlfriend hadn't come out of the bedroom to see what was going on."

"His GIRLFRIEND?!!!" It was Jane's turn to be appalled. Charles didn't seem as surprised.

"Well if not his girlfriend, then just a hic! floozy that he slept with. But I think it's a girlfriend because his apartment had been redecorated and not in his usual style. I feel like such an idiot for ever thinking I was in love with that man. And now William is back with hic! Caroline. I'm all alone." Lizzy started to cry again.

"Oh sweetie, at least you've made the break from George. Charles, please get some ice and a facecloth. There, there, honey. It will be all right. And maybe the Caroline thing is all a misunderstanding." Jane felt miserable for her sister. What a way to start the day, especially the day after burying their beloved Papa.

Charles returned with ice wrapped in a cloth and Jane gently put it to Lizzy's face. When her sobs subsided, Lizzy went to her room. Physically and emotionally exhausted, she quickly fell into a troubled sleep.

"Jane, I know you don't believe in interference but I've had enough," Charles declared. "We've got to resolve this. I'm going over to William's to see what the heck is going on. This involves my sister, you know, as well as yours. I just can't believe William would take her back after what she did to him. And Jane, just last night William admitted to Rick and I that he loves Lizzy."

"He did? Then there has to be a misunderstanding somewhere. He wouldn't say that and then jump into bed with Caroline."

"No, he wouldn't. The only one I know who would hop into bed with someone other than his fiancé without a second thought is George. We saw him at the bar last night, Jane. He was with a woman, probably the one Lizzy saw in his apartment. William confronted him and they would have gotten into a fight if Rick and I hadn't prevented it. I'm glad Lizzy is finally rid of that guy. I say good riddance!"

"My poor sister. She has been so deceived by that man. Charles, I can't believe I'm saying this, but please go to William and find out what's going on. I'll stay here in case Lizzy wakes up. I don't want her to be alone."

"OK my love. I'll be back soon." He kissed her and left.

Charles returned almost three hours later. "Hi sweetie," he said to Jane. "Where's Lizzy? Still in bed?"

"No she woke up and I fed her lunch then set her up with a nice hot bubble bath. She should be in there a while as I just brought her a glass of wine and her book. Tell me everything."

Charles explained how Caroline had shown up at William's house and what happened subsequently.

"Did William know that Lizzy had been there?"

"Yes, Mrs. Reynolds told him after Caroline left, but he didn't know what had transpired between the two of them and it was driving him crazy. When I got there, he practically tackled me to find out if I knew anything. He was mortified when I told him what Caroline had said to Lizzy."

"Did you tell him why Lizzy went over? Did you tell him that she loves him?"

"No, I thought it best that Lizzy have the opportunity to tell him herself. All I told William was that Lizzy had been very anxious to speak to him and that she had finally broken up with George. But I didn't tell him about George hitting her. I was afraid he would do something stupid."

"So now what happens?"

"William wanted to come over directly but I convinced him to wait. He was still hung over and a mess and I knew Lizzy was not in the best of shape either. We discussed what to do and came up with a plan."

"Which is?"

"Tomorrow night you and I are supposed to go and listen to a band, do you remember?"

Jane was confused. "Yes, as a possible band to play at our wedding. What does that have to do with Lizzy and William?"

"We will talk Lizzy into coming with us and then William will show up. We can dance and leave them alone to talk. William wants to explain the Caroline incident to Lizzy himself and then make his feelings known."

"Charles, I hope this works."

"As do I, my love."

"You want me to go where?" Lizzy asked her sister the next afternoon.

"Come out to dinner with Charles and I and then to an anniversary party to hear a band we are considering for our wedding."

"I'll just be a third wheel," Lizzy complained. She really just wanted to stay home and mope about as she had done for the last 24 hours. She wanted the luxury of wallowing in her misery.

"Nonsense, Lizzy. I insist you come with us. I will not leave you here alone to feel sorry for yourself."

"But I want to feel sorry for myself Jane. After all, I am 24 years old and alone. My fiancé had a girlfriend and the man I was falling in love with decided to go back to the woman who left him at the altar. I deserve to feel sorry for myself."

"Stop it Lizzy. You are coming with us and that's final. I will hear not one more word about it. Go put on something nice. We can't crash this anniversary party looking like ruffians."

Lizzy was so astonished at the normally placid Jane's behavior, that she obeyed her orders without additional protest. She took a shower and dressed in the green dress she had worn to William's 'almost-wedding'. The mirror showed the slap mark was almost gone. She covered the remaining redness with a little make-up.

"That's better," Jane said as they walked out to Charles' car a couple hours later. "You look very nice, Lizzy. You will be glad that you came out with us."

Lizzy wasn't so sure.

Chapter 23

Posted on Wednesday, 1 March 2000

Jane and Charles chatted merrily through dinner about their wedding plans. They had set a date for the following April and their arrangements were already well underway. Lizzy listened to them and tried not to think about her own now-defunct plans. But she was gratified by her sister's happiness with Charles and knew they would have a good marriage. That made her feel better in spite of her own problems.

Later at the anniversary party, the trio tried to be unobtrusive as they selected an out-of-the-way table. When the dance floor was filled for the next song, Jane and Charles felt no one would notice if they joined in. Lizzy sat with her head in her hands listening to a golden oldie she had always liked. The words now seemed especially relevant to her situation with William.

Cherish is the word I use to describe
All the feeling that I have hiding here for you inside.
You don't know how many times I wish that I had told you.
You don't know how many times I wish that I could hold you.
You don't know how many times I wish that I could mold you
Into someone who could cherish me as much as I cherish you.

Perish is the word that more than applies
To the hope in my heart each time I realize
That I am not going to be the one to share your dreams,
That I am not going to be the one to share your schemes,
That I am not going to be the one to share what seems to be
The life that you could cherish as much as I do yours.

Oh, I'm beginning to think that man has never found
The words that could make you want me.
That have the right amount of letters, just the right sound
That could make you hear, make you see
That you are driving me out of my mind.

Oh, I could say I need you, but then you'd realize
That I want you, just like a thousand other guys
Who say they love you with all the rest of their lies,
When all they wanted was to touch your face, your hands
And gaze into your eyes.

"And I do cherish you." Lizzy heard the words whispered in her ear. Startled, she looked around at William who had taken the seat next to her. He smiled and reached his hands out to her. Tentatively she gave him her hands. "I do cherish you Elizabeth."

Lizzy felt herself blush with pleasure at the combination of his words and the warmth of his hands. But she was still confused. "What about Caroline? She told me you two are engaged."

"Elizabeth, I love you. I would never go back to Caroline. It was wishful thinking on her part."

He loves me? He loves me!! "But why was she at your house? And answering your door in her nightgown?"

"I'm sorry for that darling." He called me darling! "I wish I had known you were there. I would have straightened this whole mess out immediately. I ashamed to say that I once again drank too much the night before. When I got home Caroline was there. I passed out and evidently she made sure I was taken care of and tried to reassume her position as my fiancée. When I finally came to yesterday I sent her away, making certain that she knew it was over between us now and forever. There is only one woman I love and that is you, my dearest, loveliest Elizabeth."

The look in his eyes took Lizzy's breath away. He leaned over and kissed her lips softly and she melted into her seat.

"Dance with me?" he asked.

Too shaken to speak she simply nodded her head and he led her to the dance floor. Charles and Jane noticed them and smiled at each other happily before resuming their tight clinch.

"You are breathtaking tonight, Elizabeth," William murmured as he took her into his arms. "I love this dress."

I could stay awake just to hear you breathing
Watch you smile while you are sleeping
While you're far away dreaming
I could spend my life in this sweet surrender
I could stay lost in this moment forever
Every moment spent with you is a moment I treasure.
Don't want to close my eyes
I don't want to fall asleep
Cause I'd miss you baby
And I don't want to miss a thing.
Cause even when I dream of you
The sweetest dream will never do
I'd still miss you baby
And I don't want to miss a thing.

Lying close to you feeling your heart beating
And I'm wondering what you're dreaming
Wondering if it's me you're seeing
Then I kiss your eyes
And thank God we're together
I just want to stay with you in this moment forever
Forever and ever.

Lizzy felt incredibly content. It was as if she belonged in his arms.

Don't want to close my eyes
I don't want to fall asleep
Cause I'd miss you baby
And I don't want to miss a thing.
Cause even when I dream of you
The sweetest dream will never do
I'd still miss you baby
And I don't want to miss a thing.
I don't want to miss one smile
I don't want to miss one kiss
I just want to be with you
Right here with you, just like this.
I just want to hold you close
Feel your heart so close to mine
And just stay here in this moment
For all the rest of time.

William pulled Lizzy closer and the feel of her body moving with his and the sweet smell of her hair intoxicated him. It felt like she was made to fit in his arms.

Don't want to close my eyes
I don't want to fall asleep
I don't want to miss a thing.**

He turned his face to hers and gently kissed her lips. Before realizing what she was doing, Lizzy kissed him back, wrapping her arms around his neck. It was delightful. Suddenly Lizzy came to her senses. Seeing the passionate look in William's eyes, she stopped dancing and looked at him in amazement. "It was you!"

He replied softly, "Please don't run away from me this time."

Lizzy was astounded. "How long have you known?"

"Since the 4th of July when you sang 'Oh, What a Night!' at the carnival. I felt fairly sure that night but it was confirmed the next day when Charles told me why you sing that particular song."

"I can't believe it! I've thought about you so much since then."

"And I you. I tried to find out who you were but it was impossible. But now that I have you, I am never going to let you go."

"Thank you." Lizzy gave him a luminous smile.

William pulled Lizzy into his arms and kissed her...long and sweet...lips slightly parted....church tongue.

* 'Cherish' by The Association
** 'I Don't Want to Miss a Thing' by Aerosmith

Chapter 24 - Epilogue

Posted on Wednesday, 1 March 2000

William and Lizzy were married two months later in a romantic church ceremony. The reception was held in the ballroom at the Darcy mansion. The wedding cake was lemon. All Lizzy's sisters were bridesmaids, with Jane maid of honor of course. Rick Fitzwilliam was the best man for his cousin. He split his dances between Mary and Charlotte, leaving them both dissatisfied.

Lizzy and Jane received their inheritance and, since they both had married very well, used the money to form a charitable foundation. Jane quit her teaching job and the two sisters devoted their time to giving away their money to worthy causes, which was just what their grandfather knew they would do.

Georgiana and Lydia became such good friends that Lydia ended up transferring to Netherfield for her senior year of high school. Georgiana was a calming influence on Lydia and Lydia helped Georgiana come out of her shell.

William's investigation of George Wickham revealed that George's gambling habit ended up costing him everything. After his car was repossessed and he was evicted from his apartment, he started skimming money off of his client's accounts. A few months later he was caught during an audit and prosecuted. He was sentenced to many years in jail. Needless to say, he also lost Julie who hooked up with George's friend John.

Lizzy and William had a long and happy marriage with several children. The Darcy mansion was filled with love and laughter and joy for the rest of their lives.

The End.