Beginning, Section II, Section III
Chapter 7
"Mom, I...," Abby started.
"Dad, this is...," Crystal started to say.
They both stopped, seeing astonished expressions on their respective parents faces. "What?!" they said in unison. Then, both Abby and Crystal slowly turned their faces to see the person standing right next to them.
In shock, they said in perfect harmony, "That girl has my face!!!"
Abby rushed to her mother and Crystal to her father. Liz looked from Abby to Crystal and then back to Abby. She was shocked, stunned, dumfounded. She looked at William, who looked equally distressed. Abby and Crystal peeked at each other from behind their parents, each very surprised.
Finally, Liz said, "What's going on here?!!"
"If only we knew that...," said William. "This isn't right. It doesn't make sense...let's step outside and talk, okay?" He held Crystal by her hand and led her outside, with Abby and Liz following them. Crystal looked back at Abby and smiled. Abby returned it feeling a peculiar affinity to this stranger.
Once outside, William said, "Liz, I hope you don't mind me asking, but is your daughter adopted?"
Liz looked at Abby, then said, "Yes, she is."
"Okay," said William. "Let me take a wild guess...was she born at St. James Hospital in DC?"
"Yeah, but how -- ?" Liz was surprised.
William was beginning to understand, "My daughter is adopted, too and she was born at St. James Hospital." He looked at Crystal and Abby, trying to understand. "And her birthday is..."
"May 16, 1986?!!" Liz cut in.
"YES!!!" exclaimed Crystal.
"Can it be...?" Liz said, mystified.
"We're twins!!!" Abby cried, hugging Crystal. The girls were jumping up and down in delight, feeling a bond between them. In their minds, there was no doubt. They were twins. They made quite a picture, with their dark, curly hair thumping up and down. They presented a picture of extreme happiness.
William and Liz just watched them quietly, then looked at each other. "Is it possible?" asked Liz, slowly.
"I guess so," said William. "But I don't understand...why wouldn't they tell us?"
"I can't answer that, but I'll sure find out!" said Liz. Then, addressing the girls, "Okay, girls, I know you're excited, but we have to be sure. This could just be a huge coincidence. At any rate, I think its best if we went down to the hospital to be sure." She glanced at William who nodded his consent. They walked to the parking lot and discovered that they had parked next to each other.
Crystal said, "Dad...can we ride together? Please!" Abby made a similar request to Liz.
William and Liz looked at each other. Then, Liz said, "Okay."
It was decided that Abby and Crystal would ride with William and Liz would follow them in her car. William led the way and glanced at his rearview. Liz was following alright. He could see that her face was grim and understood. This could bring about major changes in their relationship.
Meanwhile, Crystal and Abby, in William's backseat, were exchanging information about themselves.
"I don't have a dad," Abby informed Crystal.
"I don't have a mom," Crystal said.
"I used to live abroad ever since I was born," said Abby. "We just came here about 2 weeks ago."
"I lived here all my life," said Crystal. "But that's very boring. You must have seen many exciting places. Tell me!!"
So Abby told her all about her childhood in foreign places, like London, Paris and other places in Europe her mom had been transferred to. It had been unsettling at first, but then Abby grew used to it and learned to like it. She could, therefore, speak fluent French and German, and a little bit of Spanish.
"Wow!" said Crystal. "The only place I've been outside of US is Canada and that was just to visit some friends. I wish I could've gone to cool places like you!"
In this manner, Abby and Crystal chatted like best friends while William listened intently to everything they were saying. So, Liz isn't married? Hmm... An idea was forming in his head and he couldn't let it go. It seemed insane, but there weren't many options. William smiled to himself and looked at the rearview. Liz saw him and grimaced.
Liz couldn't believe this was happening. Of course, she was happy that her daughter was so excited at finding a "twin", but did it have to be William's daughter? Of all the people in the world, did she have to share this with him? It was just her luck. Liz cursed under her breath. If, as was most probable, Abby and Crystal did turn out to be twin sisters, Liz would have no choice but to meet William often. They couldn't something this important without close association. Liz sighed and stepped on the gas. This event was going to have great repercussion on all their lives.
50 minutes later; St. James Hospital Neonatal Care and Adoption Center
"How could you have done this to us??!!" William bellowed.
"We're very sorry, Mr. Darcy," said Mr. Richardson, the head of staff. "But this was a mistake. We weren't trying to fool you intentionally."
Liz said, "But this 'mistake' means a great deal to us. You see, our girls missed out on so much. Till this day, they didn't know they had a twin sister."
"What can I say?" Mr. Richardson hung his head. "We're extremely sorry."
Abby and Crystal exchanged glances. They were legally sisters! The birth records showed that they'd been born to a young woman named Rose. She gave them up for adoption almost immediately and was never heard from again. Somehow they had gotten separated in the adoption process and ended up with their parents. It was truly amazing that they even met!!
After a little more discussion, William and Liz got up and indicated to the girls that they were leaving. Once outside, Liz said, "So...?" She looked at Abby and Crystal who seemed inseparable. They whispering into each other's ears, giggling.
"So," said William.
Liz sighed, "I can't believe this."
"Me neither," replied William, playing his little idea in his head and liking it more each time. "Um...Liz? Have you decided on a house yet?"
"Actually, yes," said Liz, suspiciously. "I talked to my realtor yesterday and she said she had found us a perfect house in Loudon county."
Abby and Crystal had been listening. Crystal said, "But that's too far away!"
Liz said, "I'm sorry, dear. But there aren't many places available around here."
"But mom!" Abby exclaimed. "I just found out I have a twin! I want to spend time with her, be with her!"
"Yeah, so do I!" said Crystal.
Liz looked at William for help, but he didn't say anything. So, Liz said, "You can still meet often...over weekends...and things."
"But that won't work!" Abby exclaimed. "I'll never get to know her. We'd be living miles apart."
"So, what do you suggest we do?!" Liz gave up. "You want to live in McLean, but I can't get a house in McLean..."
"Unless...," said William, all of a sudden. Glancing at Crystal, "You live with us."
"With you?!!!" Liz exclaimed.
"Yes, at Pemberley."
Chapter 8
Liz was stunned as she looked from William to Abby to Crystal. Her first impulse was to say no. She finally said, "I'm not sure what you mean..."
William said, "There aren't many things that could mean. I was just thinking about it and it occurred to me that since Pemberley is so big, you and Abby could move in with us. I have a housekeeper, Mrs. Reynolds, who is currently on leave, but she'll be back soon. So there is no problem about housework or anything."
Liz couldn't fathom why William was even suggesting this. "That's very nice of you, William, but I couldn't possibly inconvenience you like that..."
William shook his head, "It's no problem at all! Believe me, I wouldn't suggest it if there was a problem. That way, Crystal and Abby can spend time together to make up for all the time they missed. And you could treat the house as your own."
Liz was thinking, "William, if I accept this proposition, which I'm not sure I will, I want you to understand that I will pay rent for the rooms occupied by Abby and myself."
"That's fine," agreed William. "It's not necessary, but I don't have a problem with that."
Liz sighed and looked at Abby, who seemed extremely happy and excited. She said, "This is very sudden...I'll need time to think about it."
"Mom, please say yes!" urged Abby.
"Yes, please say yes!!!" Crystal echoed her.
"Girls, don't pressure her," William said, with a glance at Liz. "I want this to be Liz's own decision. No pressure whatsoever." He turned to Liz, "Whatever you decide, just know I have the girls' best interests in mind."
"Yes, I know," said Liz. "I'll have my decision for you tomorrow."
"I'll be waiting," said William. Then, to Crystal, "Come on, honey. We have to go home now..."
Crystal looked plaintively at Abby. "But I don't want to go home! Can't I stay with Abby for a little while?"
Liz saw that Abby wanted to be with her sister, too. She said, "Abby, you could go with Crystal for the evening..."
"Thank you, mom!!!" exclaimed Abby, very excited.
"I'll drop her home, if you like," offered William.
"Will you?" asked Liz. William nodded. "Thanks!" Liz gave him the address as he got in his car with Abby and Crystal.
"Be good, honey," Liz told Abby.
"I will," returned Abby, smiling widely. "Thanks mom!"
Liz watched the red BMW drive away and sighed as she walked slowly to her own car. This was all too confusing. William was actually being very nice about it. But why? Was this some kind of a trick? Liz shook her head at her paranoia. He was just doing this because of his daughter. But should she accept? Liz knew that Abby had her heart set on it, but was it wise to give into her. What about her? How was she going to bear living with William under the same roof, and then working with him all day? It would be too much to bear. Was she being selfish? With such thoughts in mind, Liz stepped on the gas and proceeded for Jane's.
20 minutes later; Jane's house
Liz rang the bell and Jane emerged with her hair in a towel.
"Oh, thank goodness it's you!" Jane exclaimed, letting her in. "I thought it was Charles and he was early! I would have died!! Oh," looking around, "Where's Abby?"
"Slow down, Jane," Liz sighed as she sank into the couch. "It's a long story."
"What happened, Lizzy?" Jane was concerned.
Liz related the entire story from the meeting of the twins to William's sudden proposal.
"Oh my!!!" Jane exclaimed when Liz was done. "Oh my!! Wow! What a story??! Twins separated at birth meet years later at the mall...parents are sworn enemies...or are they? Liz, what're you going to do?!!"
"I don't know, Janie," Liz sighed. "It's so confusing."
"What's confusing about it?" Jane said "The most gorgeous guy asks you to live with him and you have to think about it?!!!"
"Jane! It's not like that!"
"Sure, it's not," said Jane, teasingly. "Mom will flip when she finds out."
Liz panicked, "Oh no! Mom can't find out!"
"You can't hide it from her, Lizzy," Jane pointed out.
"Yeah, I can," persisted Liz. "Do you know what'll happen if she finds out?"
"She'll fawn on you and insist that you marry William?" suggested Jane.
"Exactly!" Liz exclaimed. "And I can't let that happen!"
"Liz, I think this is a very tough decision for you," said Jane. "You'll have to decide what's important and what's not? Is Abby's happiness really worth all the sacrifice? If yes, then go ahead and accept it. If no, then don't. That's all the advice I can give." Then, moving to the door, she said, "Now, I have to get ready. Charles will be here soon."
Liz watched Jane leave and felt even more confused than before. She loved Abby very much and didn't want to come in way of her happiness. But William...??? Was it worth having to go through the horror of living with William? Liz didn't know. After an hour of thinking about all the pros and cons, Liz finally came to a decision. She picked up the phone and dialed a number.
"Hello? Caldwell Realtors, how may I help you?"
"Hello Macy? This is Elizabeth Bennett...it seems like I won't be needing that house in Loudon after all..."
Meanwhile, at Pemberley
Crystal was showing Abby around the house and Abby was awed, "Wow! This place is huge! Do you really live here?"
"Yes," Crystal smiled. "I'll show you my room." Crystal led her to a large room upstairs and said, "If you move in, we can share this room..."
"That would be awesome!!" exclaimed Abby. "But I don't know if my mom will accept..."
"Well...she might...," Crystal said. "We'll beg, if we have to."
"Yeah," sighed Abby. "Oh, it's so nice to know I have twin sister!"
The twins hugged each other treasuring their time together.
Then, Crystal said, "Wouldn't it be great if our parents started liking each other!"
Abby giggled, "Yeah! They could get married and then we'd never have to be apart!"
"But is that likely to happen?" Crystal said.
"Sure!" Abby said, confidently. "It'll just take some work on our part...a little enterprise, that's all. We can make them fall in love."
Crystal giggled, "That will be so much fun! If only, you'd move in with us!!" Then, grinning naughtily, "Have you ever seen 'The Parent Trap'?"
The girls giggled some more and started making plans on how to entrap their parents. Suddenly the door bell rang and Crystal yelled, "I'll get it!!!" She ran down with Abby close at heel. She opened the door, "Oh hi, Caroline!"
"Hi darling!" said Caroline sweetly, giving her a kiss, which Crystal rubbed off. "How are you?!"
"Super!" exclaimed Crystal. "Meet my twin!" Abby, who was standing behind the door, showed herself.
"What the -- ?!!" Caroline was shocked.
Crystal giggled. "Don't be so stunned...this is my twin...Abby Bennett. We got separated at birth and met today for the first time."
"How charming, darling," Caroline managed to say. Did she say Bennett? Hmmm.
"Nice to meet you," said Abby, looking at Crystal as if to say who is this annoying woman?
Crystal read her mind, "This is Caroline Bingley. She works with my dad."
"Yes, I do," Caroline's face brightened up.
"So does my mom!"
Caroline looked at Abby suspiciously. "Oh, really? Does she?"
Crystal smiled wickedly. This is going to be so much fun! "Oh, and what's more, I think she's going to move in with us..."
Caroline looked shocked, "Move in with you?!" Then, looking at Abby, "Who's your mother?"
"Elizabeth Bennett."
A bloodcurdling scream shook the foundation and reverberated through Pemberley. Noooooooooooooo!
Chapter 9
The loud scream brought William running downstairs. "Crystal??! What's the matter?!" He saw Caroline and stopped. "Oh, hi, Caroline. I didn't expect to see you here..."
Caroline forgot everything and ran to William, clutching his shirt, "Tell me it isn't true?!!"
"What the -- ?!!" William was very surprised. He looked at Abby and Crystal who simply shrugged while trying to repress their laughter. "Caroline...you have to calm down. What are you talking about?"
"Elizabeth Bennett!!!" said Caroline. "She's moving in with you?"
"Maybe, it's still not decided," said William, calmly, trying to extricate himself from Caroline's clutches. "I offered and she hasn't given me her response yet..."
"I see," a ruffled Caroline replied. Then stealing a look at Abby, "How did this happen?"
William explained, "We met accidentally at the mall. It appears that Abby and Crystal were separated at birth. So now since they don't want to be torn apart again, understandably."
"Naturally," muttered Caroline.
"And Elizabeth hasn't moved into a house yet," said William. "So I offered that she stay here. She hasn't given me her answer yet. I'll find out tomorrow."
"I see," said Caroline, now very calm. She walked over to Crystal, "Crystal, honey, this is so exciting for you!" Then, as an after-though, to Abby, "For you, too." She smiled her sickening smile. "William, I just came over to say 'hello' but I remember that I have something important to do. So, I'll see you later, darling. Ciao!"
With that, Caroline hastily left the premises thinking: How can this happen to me? I can deal with one little brat, but two?! And twins at that!!! Trust little Miss "I'm-so-perfect" Bennett to come in and ruin everything! Why doesn't she just go back to wherever she came from?! I'm not about to let her take my William away from me!
William sighed as Caroline left, "Now that that's over...are you girls hungry?"
"Yes!" they said in chorus. Crystal said, "We want Pizza!" Abby concurred.
"Okay," said William. "I'll tell cook we won't be needing him tonight." William left.
Abby said with wonder, "You have a cook??!!"
"Yes," said Crystal. "Why, don't you?!"
"No way!" Abby giggled. She thought all this was very interesting. "When that Caroline woman started screaming, I swear I could have died laughing! It was hilarious!"
"Wasn't it?!" said Crystal. "She has had her eyes on my dad ever since I can remember."
"It's obvious," said Abby. "And I don't think she likes my mom too much, either." She grinned, wickedly. "We'll have to watch out. She might be trouble."
"Nah," said Crystal, grinning. "Dad doesn't care about her, as you saw. But we will have fun with her!"
"I hope so!" giggled Abby, as they both went upstairs.
The next morning
Elizabeth walked into her office and sighed. She knew that William was already in, so it was time for her to tell him of her decision. She knew that within days, the entire office would be aware of the "arrangement" and god only knew, what teasing and such lay in store for her. But Lizzy was determined not to let anything or anyone get in way of her daughter's happiness.
She knocked at William's door. "Come in," came his voice. She entered and started to say, "William, I - " She stopped. There was someone else. "Oh, good morning, Caroline."
When William saw her enter, he smiled gently. "Hi Liz!"
Through gritted teeth, Caroline managed to say, "Hi Elisa."
Then, William came straight to the point, "So, Liz, have you come to a decision?"
"Yes, I have," said Liz, with a glance at Caroline. "I accept your offer, William."
"You do?! Why that's great!" exclaimed William. Then, collecting himself, he added, "Crystal will be very happy."
"Yes, so will Abby," replied Liz. "I thought that I could start the moving process as soon as possible at your convenience."
"Yeah, sure," said William. "We still have to discuss the details." He smiled, "I hope you'll find Pemberley satisfactory."
"I'm sure I will," Liz replied. "I have work to do. Bye. Good day, Caroline." Liz left the room.
A stunned Caroline said, "William darling, you can't possibly let that woman into your house?! Think of what the people might say?"
"I don't care, Caroline," said William. "It's not about me and Liz, it's about Crystal and Abby. This is about their happiness."
"What will Gina think?" mused Caroline, referring to his sister.
"I'm sure she'll have no problem with this," said William, confidently. "Now, if there's nothing more, I'd like to return to work, please." Knowing that there was nothing more to say, Caroline left the room.
Meanwhile
Lizzy was trying to concentrate on the papers in front of her, but she found her thoughts wandering invariably to the man in the adjacent office. She found it very hard to figure him out. Sometimes he was proud and unbearable and other times he was gentle and kind. Lizzy found that he had a softer side to him as far as Crystal was concerned. Recently, he had been very nice to her, too. Maybe, she thought, she had not given him a fair chance. Maybe he wasn't that bad after all.
The ringing of the phone interrupted that train of thought. Lizzy picked up the phone, "Hello?!"
"Elizabeth Ann Bennett! Why didn't you tell me?!!!" a shrill voice shouted.
"Mom?" said Liz, slowly, her worst fears coming true. "How'd you get my number?"
"From Jane, dummy," said her mother. "How long did you think you could hide it from your mother, huh?"
"Hide what?" asked Liz, innocently, making a mental note to kick Jane later.
"Oh, don't play innocent with me, young lady," cried Mrs. Bennett. "I know all about what you've been hiding. Imagine MY girl living in a grand place like Pemberley!!!! Ohhhh!!!! I feel fait just thinking about it! And William is such a fine boy, too! You two will be great together, I just know it!"
"Mom, how did you find out about this?"
"Who cares how I found out?" Mrs. Bennett cried. "Important thing is that I'm here to help and advise you!! I'm so happy for you, darling!! This is just great!"
"Mom," said Liz, calmly. "We're not getting married; we're just living together." Oops, that didn't come out right, she thought with dismay. "I mean..."
"Oh, I know what you mean," laughed Mrs. Bennett. "You're my girl!! And he's a wonderful catch!"
"Mother!" cried Liz. "There is nothing between us. This is purely a living arrangement. Nothing is going to happen, you hear me. NOTHING!"
"That's what they all say," commented Mrs. Bennett slyly. "Anyhow, when are you bringing William over to meet me, dear?"
"I don't know," said Liz. Never!
"I'm so glad you accepted the offer," continued Mrs. Bennett. "You have accepted, haven't you?"
"Yes, mom," sighed Liz, holding her head.
"Good, just making sure!" exclaimed Mrs. Bennett. "Oh, I almost forgot. Your cousin Billy Collins is coming to visit us, bless the man. He'll be here next Saturday, so you must come over to dinner. Bring William along!"
Oh no, groaned Liz inwardly. "I'll think about it," she said.
"No, no, you MUST come, dear. He's family!"
Then why does he keep asking me to marry him?! "Okay, okay, I'll come," said Liz, hastily, not wanting to discuss it any further. "Now, mom, I have a ton of things to do. Can you please let me?"
"Oh sure, honey! I'll talk to you later! Bye!" Mrs. Bennett hung up, chirping happily. Lizzy groaned and held her head. Her mom always gave her a huge headache and this was no different. She sighed and tried to get back to work without thinking of the horrors to come what with Billy "Slimy Toad" Collins and dinner at her parents with William, no less.
Meanwhile, at Lena's Bar, Wash DC
Rose walked over to the man sitting on the counter and asked, "What will it be?"
The man looked up and said, "Beer, thanks."
"Certainly," said Rose shakily, as she walked away to get the order. Can it be him? After all these years? Is it possible? Can my eyes be playing tricks again? "Here you go."
"Thanks," he said, not showing any signs of recognition. He was reading the paper with interest and did not even look at Rose. She went away with his face in her head. It had to be him. How could it not? The same face and ruthless smile, the same lips and eyes. Rose was convinced. Yes, it was him, the man who had ruined her life. She could still remember his idle words all those years ago.
Flashback
"Who gives a damn if the baby's mine? How do I even know that you're not lying?"
"But I love you," said Rose, sobbing. "You have to believe me. There is nowhere else for me to go."
"You should have thought of that before you slept around so much," he sneered. "I want no part of this, okay?"
"But I thought you loved me, George," she cried. "You said you loved me."
"Don't believe all that you hear, kiddo," he jeered. "And don't try to contact me again. This is none of my business!"
Yes. Sighed Rose. It was him alright. He had ruined her life all that time ago and now did not even remember her. It served her right to fall for him so badly against all good advice. But then, George Wickham had always been a charmer. Rose let out a deep breath and continued to serve her other customers.
Chapter 10
Elizabeth walked with quick steps into the cafeteria and spied Charlotte sitting in their usual corner. She braced herself and made her way to the seat, sitting down with a sigh.
"Aren't you getting anything more?" asked Charlotte looking at Liz's little salad.
"No, I'm not hungry," stated Liz.
"So...I heard some rumors..." began Charlotte. "Are they true?"
"Depends on what you heard," said Liz, though she knew very well what Char was talking about.
"Well, I heard that you were moving in with William Darcy! THE William Darcy, the one you despise! Or so you say!"
Liz blushed and said, "Char, you know that's not fair. This has nothing to do with anything I feel or think about William."
"Oh really? Explain it to me," said Char.
"Okay...," Liz began the story of Abby and Crystal and related all that had happened. "So, you see, it's just an arrangement."
"Hmmm....," said Charlotte. "I would never have thought Will Darcy to be a sentimental daddy. It's just not him."
"Well, you don't know him well enough," said Liz, reflectively. "No one does. The thing about William is ---- "
"Liz!" Char cautioned her, looking over her shoulder. Confused, Liz turned around and exclaimed, "Rich! William!"
Rich smiled, "Hello ladies! Do you mind if we join you?"
"No, not at all," said Char, with a grin. "Do sit down." She looked with interest at William. He seldom ate lunch in the cafeteria. He was far too busy with more important things for that. And yet, today he was sitting there, looking passive and diffident. Somehow, Charlotte suspected that her friend had something to do with it, even if she didn't know it herself.
"William told me the news," said Rich to Liz. "And I must say...some guys have all the luck!!!"
"Richard, please!" William admonished him.
"What?!" said Rich with a wicked look. "You can't deny that you're lucky as hell!!! You know that very well and I'm envious!"
"Rich," Liz cut in. "That's not fair. You know that. William must have told you the circumstances. There was no other way."
"Oh sure!" commented Rich. "That's what you would say! But we all know the REAL reason, huh?" He winked. "But I'll play along if you want!"
Liz laughed and shook her head. Rich never would cease to tease her about this. She stole a glance at William, who looked grave as usual. She wondered why he bothered to come down to lunch, if he didn't intend to contribute to the conversation. As if feeling Liz's reproachful glance directed at him, William said, "Liz...I will arrange for a van to move your things to Pemberley. They should be there soon."
"Ok, that's fine," said Liz.
"How's Abby doing?" he ventured again.
"Great!" said Liz. "She's very excited."
"Yeah, so is Crystal." William looked as if he wanted to say more, but then decided against it. He turned away without a word leaving Liz more puzzled than ever. She really couldn't make him out at all. Maybe he wasn't worth it after all.
The next few days
Liz finished her packing and prepared to move to Pemberley. She hadn't seen it yet. But by Abby's accounts, it was grand. That didn't scare Liz in the least. She knew how to compose herself and face any kind of grandeur. Jane was a huge help, helping Liz both mentally and physically in the packing process.
"You're doing the right thing, Lizzy," said Jane comfortingly. "It's for the best."
"Then why do I feel like I'm making the biggest mistake of my life?"
"Because it's such a big step," Jane told her. "It's only natural that you have qualms about it. It's expected. But you'll see that this is what will be best for Abby in the long run. It'll make her very happy. I'm very proud of you, Lizzy."
Liz smiled at her angelic sister, "Thanks, Jane! But I simply can't imagine how I'm going to survive...living with William under the same roof, HIS roof."
"Oh, Lizzy, it'll be okay. I promise you." Jane comforted her.
That Friday
Everything was packed and had been moved to Pemberley. This was the day that Liz and Abby also took residence there.
"Bye Jane!" Liz hugged her. "I'll miss you."
"I'll miss you, too, Lizzy," Jane said. "But you make it sound like you're going away somewhere. It's only about 15 minutes from here!"
"Yeah, I know...but it's feels like we're two worlds apart."
"Bye, Aunt Jane," said Abby.
Jane kissed her, "Now, be a good girl, Abby and take care of your mother as she takes care of you."
"Oh, I will!" exclaimed Abby. Indeed, I have great plans for her.
A car honked in the driveway. "That must be William." Said Liz. Her car had been transported earlier in the day. She kissed Jane on her cheeks. "Take care, Jane." Saying thus, Liz and Abby descended the steps and got into William's care, waving good-bye.
"Hello Elizabeth, Abby," greeted William.
"Hey William!!!" Abby was enthusiastic. "Didn't Crystal come with you?"
"No, she's at home, getting ready for you to come. She's very excited."
"Yes, me too!" said Abby. She looked at her mother, who was silent and didn't even greet William. "Don't you think so, mom?"
"Huh?!" Liz wasn't listening.
"Don't you think that I've been excited for the past few days?"
"Yes," said Liz. "Very much so."
"But you are happy, too, right?" asked Abby.
"How can I not be when you are so happy?" said Liz, smilingly.
This wasn't the answer Abby had hoped for, but at present she decided to satisfy herself with it. She would need Crystal's help to get things going between their parents. So, she started talking amiably with William. Within 20 minutes, William started turning into a driveway.
"We're approaching Pemberley," he told them.
Liz was awed. She hadn't expected this. She had known that William was rich and lived on a huge estate, but she hadn't been ready for this. The grounds were enormous. Extensive grounds surrounded the narrow drive on both sides. The drive itself was lined with tiny bushes, flowers and trees, making the view even more picturesque.
"I had no idea you owned a forest, William," commented Liz. "Do you think we'll be at the house itself before dinner?"
William laughed, "Be patient." The drive turned into a bend and as they emerged, William said, "Look!"
Liz gasped. The Pemberley Mansion was in full view with an enormous lake in front of it. The architecture of the house was beyond what Liz had ever encountered. It was definitely stately, yet unpretentious; grand, yet inviting. It was rather imposing for a stranger, but the beauty of the surrounds would put anyone at ease.
"I have never seen anything so beautiful," murmured Liz, softly.
Strangely, this delighted William. He had not been aware of how much he was counting on making a favorable impression on Liz. "Thanks."
"Why didn't you tell me?" whispered Liz.
"Tell you what?"
"That you lived in a palace?" said Liz.
"It's not a palace, Liz...it's my home." Said William, in a voice that betrayed his affection for the house. A few more twists and bends and the car stopped in front of the main entrance to the house. Liz and Abby got out. Liz was still dazed and tried to compose herself, telling herself that she was being stupid. William's chauffeur appeared from nowhere, bowed and without a word took the car out of sight, presumably to the garage.
"Please come in," said William, leading the way. Once inside, Liz was overwhelmed to see all the domestic staff assembled to greet them. Crystal was standing in the middle, grinning. "Abby!" she exclaimed and ran to hug her sister. "Hi Liz!"
"Hey Crystal," Liz greeted her.
William said, "Elizabeth, Abby...welcome to Pemberley."
An elderly lady presented herself before Liz and said, "Welcome Miss Bennett...I am Mrs. Reynolds, the housekeeper. I am very pleased to welcome you here on behalf of all our staff. We want you to be comfortable here and so, if there is any way we can help you, please don't hesitate in telling us."
Liz smiled at the kind, old lady and said, "Thank you very much, Mrs. Reynolds. I'm sure we'll get along well."
Mrs. Reynolds then introduced all the members of the staff from the gardeners to the maids to the cook...everyone. Liz was sure she would never remember all their names. After that Crystal took them upstairs to their rooms. Abby would share a room with her sister, by choice since there were far too many rooms than ever used. Liz had a lovely room in the west wing, only yards away from Abby's room.
Dinner that night was a joyous occasion. Crystal and Abby chatted non-stop. Liz said very little since she was tired and slightly over-whelmed. And William said nothing, stealing glances at Liz ever so often. After a brief silence, Liz cleared her throat.
"William...there is something I need to ask you. A favor..."
"Yes?"
"Tomorrow night...my mother has invited us to dinner...all of us. That includes you and Crystal." Liz saw William wince slightly, but she continued, "I know that it would not be the most agreeable thing for any of us, but I think it only right that we go. My father wants to meet you and Crystal..."
"Of course I'd like to come!" exclaimed Crystal. "Abby told me so much about her grandpa and grandma that I simply have to meet them. I never met my grandparents, you see."
Liz smiled at Crystal, then looked enquiringly at William. He said, "I see that the decision has been made for me."
There was an edge in his voice and Liz knew that he didn't want to come. She couldn't blame him, but this was necessary. She couldn't deny her parents this opportunity of meeting the man she was living with, no matter what the circumstances. But she didn't want to force William either.
"So you'll come?" asked Liz.
"Do I have a choice?" said William with a challenging look.
Liz was about to snap at him when Abby started talking to Crystal and the tension relaxed. Liz glared at William, but then berated herself for being stupid. What did she expect? That William would approve and accept the suggestion with open arms. That was insane! She reminded herself that she did not want to get involved emotionally with William in any way. In fact, she didn't even like him. So, it didn't matter what he thought. The only reason they were sitting having dinner together was that they had daughters who turned out to be twins.
Suddenly, Liz had an enormous urge to get away. "Excuse me," she said. She, then, got up and practically ran out of the room.
That night
Liz splashed her face with water. She felt much calmer now. She didn't know what had came over her, but she knew that it appeared strange. She had felt over-powering heat in the room and it suffocated her. She had wanted to get away. Liz sighed and left the bathroom, walking slowly to Abby and Crystal's bedroom. She knocked and went inside.
"Good night, Abby sweetheart," Liz kissed her.
"Good night, mom."
Liz looked at Crystal, lying on the other bed. She bent down and kissed her too, "Good night, Crystal."
Crystal smiled widely, "Good night, Liz."
"Sleep tight, girls," said Liz and started to leave when Crystal said, "Wait!! Can I ask you something?"
"Sure?" said Liz.
"Do you hate my daddy?" she asked.
Liz didn't know the answer herself. She thought she did, but... "No, honey...I don't hate him."
Crystal smiled. "Oh."
Liz gave her an odd look, then left. She did not hear Crystal whisper to Abby, "There's still hope. She doesn't hate him!!!"
The next day; Saturday; at the Bennett's
Liz stood outside the house, waiting for William to park. The girls were giggling. She whispered, "Brace yourself, Lizzy. It's going to be rough in there." William came up behind her and said, "Is it?"
"What?" she spun round in surprise.
"Is it really going to be rough in there?" asked William, with the hint of a smile.
"I think so," admitted Liz. "Why, are you scared?"
"Me?! Never," smiled William. "I have faced worse situations than this, I'm sure." Then, gallantly offering his arm, "Shall we go?"
Liz felt her arm tingle where it touched William's. She was surprised at his gentleness and needless to say, his touch took her breath away. She composed herself and said, "Yes, let's go in before I lose my nerve." Crystal and Abby followed them, winking at each other in delight.
As soon as they entered, Mrs. Bennett's shrill voice was heard, "Oh Lizzy!! You're finally here! My, you look very pretty. And there's Abby!!! Oh!" she rushed to meet the new arrivals. "Mr. Darcy! You're very welcome!!"
"Please, call me William," he said. "This is Crystal."
"Hello," said Crystal.
Mrs. Bennett squealed. "Oh! I've heard so much about you. Now I finally meet you! It's so wonderful! Come in, girls!! Abby, give grandma a kiss. You too, Crystal."
They all finally made it in. William glanced at Liz, who shrugged. Her mother never failed to embarrass her by her over-zealous welcome. But it wasn't as bad as she had expected. She spied Jane and made her way to her, "Jane! How are you?"
"Lovely," smiled Jane. "You look wonderful."
"Thanks," blushed Liz. "Isn't Charles here?"
"No, he had some other obligation."
"Oh darn. Now poor William will be bored entirely!"
"Maybe not, Lizzy. Look!!!" Jane exclaimed. Liz turned around and watched with horror. Her cousin Collins was attacking William. She excused herself and rushed to William's side to save him.
Mr. Collins was saying, "...so I heard from Mrs. Bennett that you were indeed William Darcy from Pemberley. I knew I had to come and tell you that your honored Aunt Lady Catherine de Bourgh was in fine health when I saw her last Sunday." Liz tried to interrupt him at that point, but of no avail. He would go on. "What a joyous discovery! To think that I would meet her Ladyship's own nephew! I would never have thought it possible. Such felicity! And Miss Anne de Bourgh was in great health, as well. In fact, she's doing much better since the bout of cold she had few weeks ago. But you must probably be aware of that yourself."
"Billy!!!!" Liz exclaimed, finally gaining his attention.
"Cousin Elizabeth!" he exclaimed. "I was just talking to Mr. Darcy. Mrs. Bennett tells me of the odd co-incidence by which you both find yourself in the same residence. I would say it is the will of god that brought you this far. Destiny."
"Yes, Billy...that's nice," she said through gritted teeth. "Now, if you'll excuse us." She took William's arms and led him away from there.
"Who was that?!" exclaimed William, once they were away.
"My distant cousin, Billy Collins," explained Liz. "He works as a clergyman in the parish of Lady Catherine and you'll never hear the end of that. I'm sorry about that."
"He really is obnoxious. Now I know what you meant by rough," observed William. Liz looked hurt, but she heard her name called. "Excuse me," she said and went away. It was her mother with her sister Mary and a tall, brown-haired man unknown to her.
"Lizzy, come here," said Mrs. Bennett.
"Mary! It's good to see you. When did you come into town?" exclaimed Liz, hugging her sister.
"Yesterday," said Mary. There was something different about her. She looked almost beautiful...and very happy. Strange. Then, she said, "And this is Mr. Elliot Heighton, my friend."
"Friend?!" Elliot raised his eyebrows, smiling at Liz. He had lovely, green eyes she noticed. They had a teasing, laughing quality to them. "I wouldn't go so far as to call myself Mary's friend. Our relationship oscillates from one end to another. We're in talking terms one moment, then hate each other the next. It's really interesting!"
Liz saw Mary blush profusely and knew instantly that there was more to it than met the eye. She caught Mrs. Bennett's triumphant look and understood that the same thing was going through her mind. Mary had never been in any kind of a relationship, hence this was quite a surprise.
"So, Elliot," said Liz. "I see you've been ill-used by my sister. Is there anything more I need to know about her?"
Elliot looked at Mary, winked and said, "Oh, if I could only begin to express all the horror I have to endure!!"
"It's that bad?" smiled Liz.
"If you only knew!" exclaimed Elliot. "Isn't that right, little one?" he addressed Mary.
"See what I have to put up with?" said Mary with a shake of her head. "His skill at exaggeration is only exceeded by his pomposity and condensation!!!"
Liz was shocked to see such spirit from her meek little sister. Surely, this had all to do with the green-eyed stranger who teased and made fun. She said, "Now, you two, domestic quibbles need not be brought out in public. I wouldn't want to be the cause for a fight!"
"As if we need a reason to fight!" laughed Elliot, then catching Mary's eyes, "Sorry."
Liz excused herself and found her mother following her. "Isn't this great?!!" she said.
"What, mom? They're just friends!"
"Oh, well, obviously you didn't see the looks they exchanged. I swear they're in love. It's lovely!" exclaimed Mrs. Bennett. "I wouldn't be surprised if Mary got married first. Jane is not persistent enough with Charles and you! You need to catch William."
"Mom!" exclaimed Liz. She could see that William, standing few feet away from them, was listening to every word.
"Oh, but it's true! If only you listened to me more often!" cried Mrs. Bennett.
In despair, Liz walked away from her, purposefully avoiding William. Suddenly, Abby appeared from nowhere. "Mom, come with me!" she grabbed Liz by her hand and started walking.
"Where are we going?" asked Liz.
"To the library," answered Abby. Happy to escape, Liz complied. What she didn't know was that Crystal was doing the same thing with William. They both arrived at the door at the same time.
"William!"
"Liz!"
"Go in," urged Abby. "Grandpa wants to see you both."
They went in. Liz hugged her father. "So this is where you were hiding," said Liz.
Mr. Bennett smiled, "You know me too well." He looked at William. "Mr. Darcy, I presume?"
William shook his hand, "William. Pleased to meet you, sir."
"So, you're taking care of my girls?" he looked at Liz and Abby.
"Yes, sir," said William, slightly uncomfortable in the older man's gaze.
"Well, good luck, then," smiled Mr. Bennett.
"Thanks," William said, stealing glances at Liz.
Then, Mr. Bennett said to Liz, "You made the right decision, Lizzy. I'm very proud."
"Thanks, dad!" Liz kissed her father in delight. He approved!
The shrill sound of Mrs. Bennett's voice was heard, "Dinner!!! Everyone!!!!"
"Shall we go?" asked Mr. Bennett, giving his arm to his daughter. They exited the library and ambled to the dining room. The seating cards had been arranged by Mrs. Bennett, so many of the guests weren't satisfied. Liz found herself between Lydia and Mr. Collins. She saw that Abby and Crystal were next to each other and very happy. She looked around for William and saw that he was seated between Mrs. Bennett and Mary's "friend" Elliot Heighton.
"Nice to see you again, Will," said Elliot with a grin. They had met before at a mutual friend, Charles Bingley's party. "Fancy meeting you here!"
"Yes, Elliot. It is a surprise," said William, politely. And the pleasure is not mine. He had been annoyed by Elliot's flippant comments and teasing smile. He was just not William's type.
"I heard about you and Liz," continued Elliot, grinning even more. "Lucky man!"
"I assure you," said William, with dignity, glancing at Liz on the other end of the table. "that you are wrong in assuming anything. You no doubt heard about the circumstances that led to the event."
"Of course!" exclaimed Elliot. "But you'd be a greater fool than I thought if you didn't try anything! I mean, look at her! She's gorgeous! And she's living at your house! It's a god given opportunity."
"Elliot, I don't know what you mean," said William, coldly. "I suggest that you keep your nose out of my business."
"Okay, fine!" smiled Elliot. He caught William looking strangely at Liz and thought: he has it bad, so bad that he doesn't know it himself.
Meanwhile, being deprived of sensible conversation herself, Liz tried to see how William was coping. He seemed to be talking amiably with the nice Elliot, but then all of a sudden he turned his head away with haughtier and looked at her. Liz caught his eye. He held the look for a moment. His eyes were strangely intense, but Liz couldn't discern his expression. She smiled at him, but then, he collected himself and looked purposefully away. Well!! Thought Liz with anger. Of all the rude things!
She decided not to look at him anymore, but then couldn't help it. She stole a glance and was appalled to see her mother chatting away to William. He looked bored, cold and indifferent, bordering on impoliteness. Liz couldn't believe that her mother was exposing herself to the ridicule of such a proud, disagreeable man. She tried in vain to catch Mrs. Bennett's attention. Finally, William muttered something indistinct and the conversation ended. Liz was humiliated. The night was fast becoming a disaster.
After dinner, there was some more mingling and such, but Liz didn't feel like staying any longer. She sought out the girls and William and told them to get ready. She said good-bye to her sisters, her dad and her mom and left with quick steps. Liz vowed not to bring William with her again. It only served to bore him and humiliate her. It wasn't worth the trouble. She got into the car without a word.
"I had a lovely time," declared Crystal from the backseat, once they were on their way.
"So did I," said Abby.
"Mr. Bennett said that I should call him grandpa!" said Crystal. "Isn't that great, daddy?"
"Yes," said William, hardly listening to what she was saying.
Liz said, "I am glad you girls had a good time, but that is more than I can say for either me or William." She looked at William beside her. "I'm sorry that you had to put with that, William."
"That's okay," said William. "I came here willing to endure your family."
Liz glared at him, "That's very generous of you, but I wouldn't wish for you to endure anything on my behalf. I'm sorry you couldn't find any pleasure in the evening and I assure you this mistake will never be repeated."
William did not respond, pretending to concentrate on the driving. But Abby and Crystal looked at each with dismay. Why couldn't their parents just get along? Was it too much to ask?
Suddenly, with a crack of lightening on the distant horizon, Abby said, "Looks like a thunderstorm."
They arrived at Pemberley soon after and everyone got out. Liz said to Abby, "I want to walk outside for a while. Go to bed, Abby."
"Good night, mom," Abby kissed her cheeks and she ran in with Crystal.
"Are you sure you'll be fine?" asked William, looking at the sky with concern.
"I can manage," snapped Liz. She walked away with quick steps.
35 minutes later
It had started to rain as William looked out of his window. He was very confused and wasn't sure of his own feelings anymore. The entire evening had been a disaster, especially with the way it ended. He hated fighting with Liz, but this time, she had initiated it. After all, he had tried to be nice tonight. He had put up with her entire family and that was a feat in itself. Then why, instead of being grateful, was Liz being so cold and angry. Had he ticked her off somehow? Was she even worth the time he spent thinking about her?
William got up and found himself wondering what she was doing at this time. She must have come inside since it was really pouring down hard. He left the room to do his usual rounds of the house to check whether everything was properly locked. As he came to the front door, he found that it was unlocked. Strange, he thought. Mrs. Reynolds is always so careful. He locked it and was just turning around when a thought struck him and he opened the door, peering outside.
The rain was still coming down in a haze. But William felt that something was wrong. He grabbed an umbrella and went out, looking for he knew not what. The ground in front of him was clear. He was just about to go back inside the house when something crumpled on the ground, few feet away caught his attention. He went closer and peered.
"Oh my god, Elizabeth!!!!" he exclaimed with horror.