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Chapter
George Wickham observed, with unconcealed delight, the shock on her face. "I am glad you remember my name, my dear." He glanced wryly at Darcy and smiled. "I was almost afraid that you would have forgotten me by now."
Elizabeth felt dazed, and horribly sick. "I have not forgotten," she managed to whisper.
Anne, meanwhile, had no comprehension of what was occurring before her eyes. She frowned and asked, in a puzzled voice. "Who are you, exactly?"
Wickham seemed to find that extremely amusing for he laughed at the question. "My name is George Wickham, perhaps you have heard of me." He glanced at Elizabeth. "I am her husband. You must be Miss de Bourgh."
Anne still did not understand. "No, you can't be him. George Wickham is dead." She looked at Darcy for support. "Well, is he not?"
Wickham grinned again. "Simply spurious information, I am afraid."
Oh my god. Anne's face fell. Darcy and Elizabeth were both curiously silent, but Anne had no scruples in asking the direct questions. "What do you want?"
Wickham chuckled. "My wife, of course."
"Well, you can't have her," declared Anne with some energy.
Wickham looked at Anne. "You don't seem to understand, Miss de Bourgh, I am not asking for anything. She is my wife and she belongs to me. I have no reason to seek your approval."
Anne's volatile temper flared. "Now, listen, you...you...degenerate ...!"
"Anne..." Darcy interrupted her warily.
"No, Darce, let me finish," Anne said, impatiently. "How dare you walk in here and expect to have your wife back when you abandoned her for months on end for no good reason?! She may be your wife, but she is not your slave. You cannot waltz in and out of her life like that. She is happy now, no thanks to you, and I expect to keep it that way. Now if you..."
"Anne!" Darcy interrupted her again, glaring at her.
"But Darce!" moaned Anne.
"No," said Darcy firmly. "Let me handle this." He looked at Wickham's vile, twisted face and suppressed the urge to strangle him. "What is it that you want, Wickham?" It took a great deal of self-control for Darcy to even pronounce his name while ignoring the immense feeling of revulsion it excited.
Wickham looked at Darcy, obviously enjoying himself. "I already stated what I want."
Darcy had a desperate, sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. He glanced at Elizabeth's ashen face and tried a different approach. "I think we are all aware that you do not really want your wife, so I would urge you to state your real intentions now." Darcy paused, thinking rapidly. "If monetary compensations are what you seek, let me assure you that any reasonable request will be duly considered."
Wickham shook his head. "Elizabeth is not for sale."
Darcy was quick to respond. "That is not what I meant..."
"Of course it was," said Wickham.
"Do not twist my words," warned Darcy, his patience slipping. "I merely think..."
"I do not give a damn what you think," Wickham said decidedly.
Darcy paled. "Be reasonable, Wickham."
"I already am," declared Wickham.
Elizabeth, who had hitherto simply watched the exchange, slowly cleared her throat, and immediately, there was silence in the room. All eyes were focussed on her. She avoided their gazes, looking instead at the carpet. "I will go." There was a hint of resignation and acceptance in her voice and her words were decisively. She seemed very calm and collected, however, an appearance that perhaps concealed her real emotions.
"Elizabeth, no!" exclaimed Anne. "You don't have to."
"Yes I do," said Elizabeth firmly. She looked at Anne briefly. "I will not argue with you."
"But Elizabeth..." Anne began.
"No, please," Elizabeth shook her head. She walked slowly towards Wickham.
Wickham grinned triumphantly. "It is settled, then." He produced a scrap of paper with scribbled writing from his pockets. "This is the address. Have Elizabeth's clothes sent there as soon as possible."
"You are leaving now?" asked Anne, almost fearful of the answer.
"Yes, indeed," nodded Wickham. "I have a carriage waiting outside." He looked at Elizabeth. "Shall we?" Elizabeth only nodded in response. Wickham offered her his arm, which she silently took. He smiled and then said to the remaining two. "Have a good night."
With those words, he exited the room, Elizabeth at his side. Anne watched them leave with horror. She looked at Darcy in desperation. "Darce, you cannot let her leave!"
Darcy seemed to be in a trance. "What would you have me do?"
"Go after her," said Anne.
Darcy looked at Anne. "She wanted to go, remember. What can I do to dissuade her?"
"Do something, anything. You have to save Elizabeth from that monster."
Darcy sighed. "She is his wife, Anne. There is nothing I can do."
Anne did not accept that. "No, there must be a way. He cannot take her away like this."
"I am afraid he can," said Darcy reluctantly. "By the law of the land, he can."
"The law says they are married," said Anne. "But that does not imply she must live with him."
Darcy smiled ironically at that statement. "You do not understand, do you? Even if Elizabeth were to escape from him, she is not free. Bigamy is illegal, Anne, and as long as Wickham lives, she shall remain his wife."
"Not if she is granted an annulment," Anne said.
Darcy shook his head. "The probability of that is next to nothing."
"So, what? You are going to just let her go?"
"No, I did not say that," Darcy replied.
"Then, what are you going to do?" asked Anne, impatiently.
"I am not yet certain," said Darcy. "But first, we must inform her family."
"Oh, dear, yes," agreed Anne. "They will be devastated."
Darcy headed out and glanced back at Anne as he left, "Are you coming?"
"Wild horses could not keep me away," declared Anne and followed him promptly.
~~
Elizabeth followed Wickham to the carriage in silence. Once the carriage was in motion, she looked at her husband, a feeling of helplessness and panic overwhelming her. She was not at all prepared to face this situation and she had no idea how to extricate herself from the mess. As she fearfully looked at her husband, she knew that she did not love him, and indeed, that he did not love her. But what was on his mind? She could tell from the gleam in his eyes that he was devising some scheme, but what could it be and how did it involve her? Elizabeth could not even reflect on those whom she had left behind. It was simply too painful. She decided, instead, to focus her energies on the man sitting in front of her and seek some way to save herself.
"I thought you were dead," said Elizabeth in a small voice.
"That much is evident," said Wickham in a sneering voice. "I am sorry to come at such an...inopportune moment."
Wickham was no fool, Elizabeth knew, but she decided to play innocent. "I have no idea what you mean. I am just surprised to see you."
"An unpleasant surprise, no doubt," said Wickham with a crooked smile. Elizabeth began to protest, but he waved his hand. "Oh, do not worry, my dear, I am not at all displeased. In fact, I could not be happier."
Elizabeth frowned, a little worried. "What do you mean?"
Wickham looked at her. "Your little tryst with Darcy is very beneficial to me, my dear."
Elizabeth paled. "There was no tryst. I just - "
"Oh, please do not bother to deny it," Wickham interrupted her. "I have no time for lies. I know everything, and I mean, everything. That is not the issue here. Your Darcy is going to make me very rich and solve all my problems. I should probably thank you for that because had he not taken you as his mistress, goodness knows, he would not tolerate my presence, let alone give me money."
Elizabeth trembled. "I am not his mistress, you hear me?" She knew she was being impetuous, but her honor had been questioned and she could not allow that to pass without comment. "I am certain you, of all people, have no conception of love. So you shall probably fail to understand the bond between Mr. Darcy and myself."
Wickham seemed highly amused at her outburst. "A regular Romeo and Juliet, aren't we? I would have never thought you to be so inconstant in your love, my Elizabeth. Why, I remember you professing your eternal affections to me not too long ago."
"I was a fool, then," said Elizabeth with feeling.
"I suppose so," Wickham smiled. "For you believed that I loved you. What a notion!"
Elizabeth felt herself trembling, a faint pain in her heart at hearing her husband say such callous words to her. But she cautioned herself to be strong. She looked at him, defying the tears that threatened to flow, and said in a low voice. "Then why did you ever marry me? Why did you lead me to believe in you? Why the charade?"
Wickham smiled darkly. "I never intended to marry you, if that is what you are asking. All I wanted was to have some fun with you, but I suppose, you are not that kind of a girl."
Elizabeth felt sick, not for the first time. "You married me just for that?"
"Shocking, isn't it?" grinned Wickham. "You were just so gullible and irresistible."
"And all that time, you never felt anything?" Elizabeth was stupefied.
"Sorry to disappoint you, my dear," Wickham shrugged. "I never intended to stay as long as I did, but well, no regrets, right?"
Elizabeth responded by giving him a nasty look.
Wickham smiled. "I suppose your vanity is hurt, but you will overcome it, no doubt."
There were still questions on Elizabeth's mind. "So you faked your death?"
Wickham nodded. "Too many loan sharks on my trail."
"So you left them to prey on me," Elizabeth said reproachfully. "They sold our house."
"A pity," said Wickham with a lack of feeling. "But it was rather pitiful anyway."
"How can you say that?!" Elizabeth exclaimed. "It was our home."
Wickham smiled condescendingly. "Elizabeth, my dear, you are too emotionally attached to every little thing."
Elizabeth looked at him with hatred in her eyes. "Perhaps I am, but it is better than being vile and depraved like you, a man with no emotions at all. Shame on me for being so blind and never realizing the truth. Shame on me for loving you and for letting you touch me." Elizabeth shuddered at that last thought.
"Are you done?" asked Wickham with a small smile.
"Yes, quite," Elizabeth said shortly.
"Well, then, back to my plan," Wickham began.
"Why did you refuse the money today?" Elizabeth asked suddenly.
"I would not let Darcy buy me so easily," said Wickham, a certain cruelty creeping into his voice. "No, I will let him squirm for a little while, yes, and suffer as well. It is much better like that." He paused, and smiled. "And besides, you did not think I would let you go that easily? As long as I have you, Darcy is under my control, and I can make him do as I wish."
Elizabeth felt a chill run up and down her spine. "He will never be under your control."
"Oh, I think he already is," said Wickham.
"How did you find me?"
"A most fortuitous piece of luck, actually," said Wickham. "Your friend Lord Victor Sheffield led me to you." Seeing the shock on her face, he added, "Indirectly, of course. I happened to see you with him and I followed him, a trail that led to Darcy's townhouse. Imagine my happiness and surprise when I discovered that."
"You are a treacherous snake," Elizabeth muttered.
"Why, thank you, my dearest," laughed Wickham. "Indeed, I have been called much worse."
The carriage stopped, and they alighted. Elizabeth had hardly paid attention to their journey and was surprised as she beheld the destination. It was a dingy, dilapidated portion of town. They stood in front of a decrepit building, presumably their residence. It was a boardinghouse that let small, filthy rooms ridden with a foul stench. Wickham paid the coachman and led Elizabeth to their room.
Once they reached it, he looked at her and said, "It is nothing when compared to Darcy's townhouse, I suppose, but rest assured, we shall not have to stay here very long."
Elizabeth glared at him. "What gives you the impression that I shall stay with you, after all you have told me? I came because I thought it was my duty, but your words acquit me from any guilt. Your confessions are ground enough for an annulment and I dare say, I shall be able to obtain one without much trouble. I would not stay with you if you paid me to do so." With that, Elizabeth began to head for the door, but Wickham blocked the exit.
"Not so fast, dearest," he smiled an evil smile. "Do you honestly believe that I shall let you go, you, my golden goose?"
"What, shall you keep me here by force?" Despite her seeming defiance, Elizabeth was frightened inside, but she kept appearances.
"No, there shall be no need for force," said Wickham enigmatically.
Elizabeth laughed nervously. "Then you are a fool to think I will stay here." Elizabeth began to walk towards the door.
"I beg to differ," said Wickham. "You are welcome to leave anytime, but know this, that when you do leave me, you shall see your lover die."
Elizabeth stopped on her tracks. "You would never...?"
"Would I not?" smiled Wickham. "I have killed before, and believe me, I have no scruples in doing so again. His life is in your hands."
"You cannot do this," said Elizabeth desperately.
"I already am," said Wickham. He came close to Elizabeth, held her face, looked into her eyes for a moment, then kissed her. Elizabeth was overcome with revulsion, but she could not stop him. He stood there looking at her for a long minute, and then, he raised his hand and slapped her with all his might. Elizabeth fell to the floor. "That is so you do not forget who is in control." He laughed and then began walking to the door. "Good night, my dear."
Elizabeth did not rise from the floor as he left, her head still spinning from the shock of his slap. Oh god, help me.
Part 32
When Darcy and Anne arrived at the Gardiner's residence, there was a great deal of commotion in the house at the late guests. The housekeeper seemed alarmed at first, then recognizing the young guests, ushered them to the parlor. Minutes later, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner appeared, followed by a confused Jane. They knew only a matter of great importance could bring Darcy and Anne to their house at such a late hour and judging from the latter's solemn demeanor, the matter was of utmost importance.
"What brings you here?" asked Mrs. Gardiner after the exchange of formalities. "Is something the matter with Elizabeth?"
Darcy exchanged uneasy glances with Anne, then said, "Yes, you can say that." He paused, then added, "Tonight Mr. Wickham appeared at my townhouse."
"Mr. Wickham?!" exclaimed Jane. "But that is impossible. He is dead!"
"Or so we assumed," Darcy corrected her. "He is alive, very much so."
Mrs. Gardiner seemed fearful. "Did he take Elizabeth?"
Anne nodded. "In fact, she agreed to go with him. There was not much else she could do, I suppose. He is her husband."
"Oh dear," said Jane. "Poor Lizzy."
Mrs. Gardiner, who had heard of Wickham's infamy, could not agree more. "What does he want?"
Darcy sighed. "Money."
"Money?" said Mr. Gardiner, his interest piqued.
"Yes," nodded Darcy. "No less than ten thousand pounds, I am certain, maybe even more. It is difficult to determine the amount, but we shall undoubtedly know it ere long."
"Ten thousand pounds!" exclaimed Jane. "But we cannot...that is...why so much? He knows our family does not have so much money to spare. What is the meaning of this? I do not understand."
"He shall demand the money from me," Darcy explained.
"From you?" Jane repeated.
"Yes," replied Darcy. "He knows she was living in my house."
"And will he let her go if you pay the amount?" asked Mrs. Gardiner.
Darcy shook his head. "No, I imagine not. Not immediately anyway." Seeing the looks of surprise on the faces of all assembled, hastened to explain. "Wickham is a very greedy, self-serving man. He would never let her go with just one payment. He shall try to make as much money as possible."
"How is it that you know so much about Mr. Wickham?" asked Mr. Gardiner.
Darcy sighed. "Unfortunately, Wickham is the son of my late father's steward. I grew up with him and so, I am aware of his character. My father was very fond of Wickham and paid for his education, but I have long been aware of Wickham's ways."
"But is it not possible that he came back because he loves Lizzy?" asked Jane in a low voice. "Perhaps he truly missed her and wishes to make amends."
Anne looked at Jane in surprise. "And perhaps pigs have wings," she retorted.
Jane shrugged. "We cannot, should not assume the worst just yet. At least, I think we should not."
Anne sighed. "I do not have your faith in mankind, I suppose, Jane. You should have seen his twisted smile when he claimed her as his wife." She shuddered. "I had not been in the same room with him for 5 minutes when I decided that he was a desperate, evil man. He cannot know love and I am certain that Elizabeth does not love him."
The room was silent for a few minutes, then Mr. Gardiner said, "But we cannot ask you to sacrifice so much for my niece, Mr. Darcy. It is not your problem. You cannot be expected to pay whatever sum it is that Wickham asks."
Darcy was quick to respond. "Do not trouble yourself, Mr. Gardiner. I feel responsible for Wickham. If I had exposed his character, he might have never preyed on innocent young ladies."
"But Elizabeth married him before she met you," said Jane. "You cannot be held responsible for her."
"Perhaps not," agreed Darcy. "But in any case, Wickham would not have showed himself had he not known that she was residing in my house." He waved aside their objects. "No, I must be firm. You cannot dissuade me. I am determined to help her. Besides, if I do not, how shall you be able to meet his demands?"
Mr. Gardiner fell silent for a moment. "I do not like this, Mr. Darcy."
"Neither do I, I assure you," said Darcy. "This is a deplorable situation, but we must make the best of it while we can."
"Where is Lizzy now?" asked Jane.
Anne handed her the address Wickham had left behind. "He gave us that so that we could send her clothes."
"Oh," Jane uttered softly.
"Darce and I shall go there tomorrow morning," added Anne.
"I want to go with you," said Jane.
Anne nodded. "Elizabeth will be happy to see you."
Darcy said, "Mr. Gardiner, would you be so kind as to inform Mr. Bennet of this situation?"
"Yes, indeed," nodded Mr. Gardiner. "Will you tell us if something occurs, Mr. Darcy?"
"Yes, of course," said Darcy. He paused, then said, "I am very sorry about this."
Mrs. Gardiner looked at him. "It is not your fault, Mr. Darcy."
Darcy and Anne stayed for another 10 minutes, discussing their options. It was late, however, so Darcy and Anne took their leave, promising Jane to fetch her the next morning. As they left, Mrs. Gardiner said, "Thank you, Mr. Darcy."
"Think nothing of it," smiled Darcy.
When they were in the carriage, Anne looked at Darcy and said, "You handled that well."
Darcy looked at her. "You really think so?"
Anne nodded. "Yes." She paused. "You were firm, yet gentle. I am impressed."
Darcy colored slightly. "I just wanted to assure them that I would do everything in my power to bring Elizabeth back." Elizabeth. He had never dared to address her by that name. Darcy realized that perhaps he would never have the opportunity to call her by her given name. Fate had intervened just as he had felt close to her. Darcy recalled the stolen looks, the secret dance, the unspoken words. He sighed. Perhaps it was just not meant to be.
Anne observed his preoccupation and divined his thoughts. "You really do love her."
"Did you ever doubt that?" said Darcy.
"No, I suppose not," said Anne. "But this is a test and so far, you are doing well."
"It is not a particularly pleasant test," complained Darcy.
"No tests are," said Anne. "If it was easy, how would you prove that you loved her?"
"Even so, I do not like it," said Darcy.
"You do not have to," said Anne. "It is fate, destiny."
Darcy sighed. "Perhaps so." He was silent for a moment. "I shall write to Georgiana and ask her to stay in Pemberley for now. No point in involving her in this mess."
"Yes, I agree," murmured Anne. "It has been a long night."
Darcy remembered his dance with Elizabeth earlier that night, which now seemed to have occurred ages ago and nodded, "Yes, indeed."
Anne looked at him and squeezed his hand. "You shall get her back, Darce. Trust me."
Darcy smiled bitterly. "I wish I could."
~~
Elizabeth opened her eyes the next morning, for a moment forgetting where she was. She had fallen asleep on the floor, and as she raised herself, she looked around the pallid room and realized where she was. A feeling of despair overcame her. She was a bird in the cage, trapped, except that the door to the cage lay open. But she could not escape still. She remembered distinctly Wickham's threat and was fairly certain that he would carry it out. She could not allow Darcy to be harmed. No. Never. She would stay. She had no choice.
As Elizabeth washed her face, Wickham himself walked in. "You are up early."
Elizabeth looked at him. "I was always an early riser. Or do you not remember?"
"Ah yes," said Wickham. "Although I cannot imagine why."
Elizabeth did not respond. She touched her left cheek where Wickham had hit her the previous night. It was now adorned by an ugly bruise. Elizabeth sighed, repressing the urge to scream. She looked at her husband, "You did this to me." Her tone was accusing.
Wickham shrugged. "It will disappear in time, I dare say."
Elizabeth trembled with rage, but said nothing.
"Darcy will be paying us a visit today," said Wickham.
"How do you know?" Elizabeth paled.
"I just do," said Wickham. "You will behave when he comes." Elizabeth said nothing. "That means, you shall say nothing of my plan. No hint. Better yet, speak only when asked. I will not have you rattling and giving something away. But I suppose you are not so foolish as to disclose anything, seeing as you know the price of any indiscretion."
Elizabeth shuddered. She seemed repulsed.
Wickham looked at her and smiled. "Do you still love me, my dear?"
Elizabeth glared at him. What a question to ask. "I hate you," she said in a low voice.
For a moment, it seemed as if he would strike her again, but then a smile spread over his features and he laughed. "What a pity." He observed her indignation and added, "You think that Darcy is going to save you, do you not?"
Elizabeth refused to look at him or reply.
"Do not get your hopes up, my dear," said Wickham. "It might turn out that he does not love you all that much after all." Elizabeth refused to be provoked, so she did not reply, but Wickham added. "You see, Darcy has an excellent taste in women, and rich as he is, even he might think twice before keeping such an expensive mistress. For expensive, you will be. I will assure that."
Elizabeth glared at him. "I would rather be his mistress than your wife any day."
Wickham stared at her for a moment, then laughed out loud. His laughter was curtailed by a knocking on the door. "That must be him now." Wickham walked towards the door. "Now remember, dearest. Your best behavior."
Elizabeth took a deep breath and walked to the single window, turning her back to the door. She could not bear to have Darcy see her in her state; bruised, disheartened, broken. She was ashamed, embarrassed. What would he think of her? Did he even care? But then, why had he come to visit? Elizabeth shook her head silently. Too many difficult questions and not one satisfactory answer. Not one. No hope, no savior, no light. Just darkness. There would just be the abyss of darkness that threatened to engulf her. Elizabeth shuddered.
Wickham opened the door and greeted the newcomer. "Darcy."
Darcy did not acknowledge him. Rather he looked over his shoulders at Elizabeth's standing figure. She was looking out the window. Darcy wished she would turn around so he could see her again. Such sweet agony. The mere sight of her was such sweet agony. Close. She was so very close. Not 20 feet away. He could walk to her and touch her and feel her soft skin and kiss her. Far. But she was so far away. Away from him. Distant. Unreachable. Unattainable.
Wickham noticed his preoccupation and smiled. "Do come in, Darcy."
Darcy returned to reality and entered the room. As he did, Elizabeth slowly turned around to face him. Darcy was shocked. He saw the bruise on her face and his blood boiled. Wickham. That damned rascal. Darcy had no doubt who the perpetrator was. But he said nothing. He searched Elizabeth's face and only found a certain despair. Darcy felt truly helpless. It was a terrifying feeling.
He cleared his throat. "Anne and Miss Bennet are waiting in the carriage."
Wickham was quick to reply. "Allow me to fetch them." He glanced at Elizabeth's strained face and left the room, chuckling to himself. It was so very entertaining. I do believe Darcy is in love. How quaint!
Darcy was silent for a few moments as he heard Wickham's footsteps recede. He looked at Elizabeth and could contain himself no longer. "What happened to your face?"
Elizabeth avoided his gaze and replied, "I...uh...fell..."
Darcy had no doubt that she was lying. "Fell?"
"Yes," Elizabeth looked at him briefly. "On the stairs."
Darcy looked at her skeptically. "The stairs?" he repeated.
"Yes. The stairs," said Elizabeth firmly.
"Elizabeth, look at me," Darcy said.
Her heart soared. He said my name. Elizabeth forced herself to look at him.
Darcy's eyes pierced her. "Did he hurt you?"
Her eyes were pained. "No," she uttered in a soft voice.
Darcy could not believe her. "You must tell me the truth so I can help you. If he so much as laid a finger on you, he shall live to regret it, so help me God."
Elizabeth shuddered. It was a tempting offer. She was tempted to tell him everything. The whole, ugly truth. He could save her. He could help her. She trusted him, did she not? Wickham would never know. You shall see your lover die. Wickham's chilling words came rushing back. The words died in her mouth. She could not say them. She could not be so selfish. Of course Wickham would know. He would find out soon enough and then what? The only way to save Darcy and herself was to lie. Hide the truth. As much as it hurt, it was the only way.
"You can believe what you will, Mr. Darcy."
Darcy looked at her in surprise. Her voice was so firm and calm and confident, but Darcy was not fooled by it, not for a second. She was afraid. He could see it in her eyes. What had Wickham done to her to make her afraid to speak the truth? Had he threatened her? He was capable of the most filthy, unthinkable debauchery; so Darcy would not be surprised at anything he did. But this time he had gone too far. Wickham had dared to hit his Elizabeth.
"I will get you away from him." Darcy spoke with conviction.
If only she could believe him. Elizabeth looked at Darcy. "And what if you can't?"
Darcy shook his head. "I will."
Elizabeth smiled faintly. "That sure of yourself, are you, Mr. Darcy?"
Darcy looked at her in wonder. She had still not lost her sense of humor. "I have to be."
At that point, they heard footsteps. Moments later Wickham was in the room followed closely by Anne and Jane. When Jane saw her sister, she gasped and ran to embrace her. Anne was equally shocked as she beheld her friend. Wickham seemed to enjoy the reunion immensely for he stood in the corner with a grin on his face.
"Oh Lizzy," murmured Jane.
"You shouldn't have come, Jane," said Elizabeth as she embraced her sister.
"And why ever not?" Jane looked at her. "If this place," Jane glanced about the dismal room. "If this place is good enough for you, it is good enough for me."
Elizabeth smiled and looked at Anne. "I cannot believe you got up this early to come."
Anne was heartened to see Elizabeth's brave smile. "I wouldn't have missed it for the world." She glanced briefly at Wickham, her eyes narrowing on the bruise. "What happened to your face?"
"Oh this?" Elizabeth touched her cheek. She looked at Wickham. "As I was explaining to Mr. Darcy, I fell on the stairs. It is nothing, really. It probably looks much worse than it really is."
"I see." Anne did not buy the story for a second.
"You must be more careful, Lizzy," said Jane with concern.
Tears welled in Elizabeth's eyes. "I will."
Anne said, "We brought your trunk."
"Thank you," said Elizabeth.
"Uncle Gardiner sent word to papa," Jane informed her. "I expect he shall be in town soon."
"Oh," said Elizabeth.
"If you will excuse us," Darcy said at this point. "I believe Mr. Wickham and I have some business to discuss." He nodded at Wickham. "We shall be downstairs."
When Darcy and Wickham had departed, Anne turned to face Elizabeth. "Surely you can tell us the truth now, what really happened when you left last night? Did that scum dare to hit you?"
"No!" said Elizabeth emphatically. "I do not understand why no one will believe me."
"Because we know you," said Anne. "And we care about what happens to you."
"I fell," said Elizabeth with a sigh. "It was a mistake. That happens sometimes."
"Do you honestly want me to believe that?" said Anne.
"Are you implying that Mr. Wickham hit Lizzy?" Jane realized what Anne was saying and shook her head. "I cannot believe he is capable of that. With all his faults, I cannot believe he would do such a thing. And what reason would Lizzy have for lying."
Dear Jane. Always willing to believe the best. Elizabeth thought with an ironic smile. How wrong you are.
"I do not why either," said Anne. "But that does not mean I shall not find out." She looked at Elizabeth. "You know me. I am relentless."
"That you certainly are," smiled Elizabeth.
"I shall not rest till I find out the truth," said Anne. "You cannot stand here and tell me that this is where you wish to be."
Elizabeth sighed. "My wishes have nothing to do with it."
"And why not?" Anne raised her eyebrows.
"I am married, Anne," said Elizabeth quietly. "I made a sacred vow and I intend to keep it whether you like it or not."
"That snake," said Anne with contempt. "does not deserve you. He abandoned you and that gives you the right to leave him. Why are you doing this? There is time still. You can come with us now. We will worry about that husband of yours later. Listen to me, Elizabeth, it is not too late."
But it is. "You cannot talk me out of this, Anne."
Jane looked at her sister. "Are you happy, Lizzy?"
Elizabeth looked away.
"Why won't you answer her?" said Anne.
Elizabeth could not lie. "It doesn't really matter."
"Oh Lizzy," sighed Jane.
Anne was frustrated. "I do not pretend to understand this."
Elizabeth looked at her friend. "Perhaps it is better that way."
Anne looked at Elizabeth for a long moment, then embraced her. "I only wish you could share it with me. I can help you."
"No, you can't." Elizabeth felt a few tears flow down her cheeks.
~~
Meanwhile, Darcy led Wickham down the stairs into a small, private chamber. He closed the door and turned to face his adversary.
"Wickham, you stay away from her."
Wickham smiled. "You are ordering me to stay away from my own wife?"
Darcy felt his ire rise. "If you ever hit her, nay, touch her again, you shall regret it." He paused. "Do not smile. I am being perfectly serious."
"I believe you are," said Wickham with a faint smile.
"Then what is amusing, pray?" Darcy was irritated.
"You are," said Wickham. "She cast a spell on you and you are playing the fool." Darcy did not bother to respond, so Wickham continued. "It must really irk you to know that she is my wife, that she is mine, that I touched her and kissed her."
Darcy trembled, but knew that Wickham only wished to provoke him. "Let's discuss business, shall we?"
Wickham grinned. "Indeed."
"What do you want?"
"I think I already told you that Elizabeth is not for sale," said Wickham.
"Quit playing these games," said Darcy.
"Or else?" Wickham raised his eyebrows.
"Or I might just stop asking you," said Darcy.
"Go ahead," said Wickham. "Walk away. I am not holding you here."
Darcy took a deep breath. "Listen, I know what you are after and it shall be easy for both of us, if you stopped playing games and just stated your amount."
"It is not that easy, Darce."
Darcy was irritated. "All right, if that's the way you want it." He began to leave.
"But you can, of course, help me as a friend," said Wickham.
Darcy turned around. "As a friend?"
"Yes," nodded Wickham. "I have some outstanding debts."
"How much?" asked Darcy.
"Well, the amount is not really the issue here..."
"How much?" repeated Darcy.
"Ten thousand pounds," said Wickham.
Just as I suspected. "I shall need some time to get it."
Wickham smiled. "I knew you would oblige."
"Is that all?" said Darcy.
"For now," replied Wickham with a gleam in his eyes.
Ominous words, those. For now. Darcy nodded. "But understand, if you lay a finger on Elizabeth again, the deal is off."
"You are not in control here, Darce," snapped Wickham. "I am."
"Even so," said Darcy evenly. "That is my only condition."
Wickham looked at him for a moment, then smiled. "All right, if you wish."
"Good move," said Darcy dryly.
"We have an understanding then?" said Wickham.
"Yes," nodded Darcy and began to leave the room.
"Oh, and Darcy?" Wickham said.
"Yes?" Darcy turned around.
"Do not try anything stupid. I have Elizabeth, remember."
"Of course." Darcy looked at him and left the room.
~~
"I don't understand why you will not let me go and see her," Anne moaned.
It had been two days since Elizabeth's departure and Darcy had been adamant that Anne not visit Elizabeth every day as the latter wished. Darcy looked at his cousin as she poured herself some coffee and sighed. It was difficult enough for him to resist the urge to visit Elizabeth, but to restrain Anne was a much tougher task.
"There is no point," said Darcy.
"No point, he says," mimicked Anne. "Well, you might too much of a coward to see Elizabeth, but I am not."
"This is not about my being a coward, Anne," said Darcy patiently. "Wickham took her away for a reason and that was to separate her from us. If you keep visiting her, it defeats the whole purpose."
"So? Do I care?"
"Well, you should," said Darcy. "You should care what Wickham thinks because he has Elizabeth and he can do whatever he wishes. If we make one wrong move, he can do unimaginably horrible things. We have to be careful not to provoke him."
Anne sighed. "This is not fair."
"I didn't say it was."
"Why can we not just abduct Elizabeth and take her to a secret place?" suggested Anne.
Darcy shook his head. "Even if we could accomplish that, Elizabeth would have to be willing and it is obvious she is not."
"True," said Anne, pausing to think. "I suppose you are against kidnapping her against her will then?"
Darcy smiled faintly. "Yes."
"I thought so," smiled Anne.
"Do not think I don't want to," said Darcy. "I do not like this situation any more than you do, but we must be practical here. We cannot hide forever. No, we must do this the right way."
"The right way being what? Paying the goon?" Anne said with contempt.
Darcy nodded. "It is the only way."
"But there is no guarantee he will let her go even then. You said so yourself."
"Yes," agreed Darcy. "But let us cross the bridge when we come to it, shall we?"
"All right," Anne sighed.
"When does Mr. Bennet arrive?" asked Darcy.
"Tomorrow, I think," said Anne.
"Oh," uttered Darcy.
Just then, the landlady arrived with a letter in her hand. "This just arrived, sir."
Darcy thanked her and opened the letter, glancing at Anne and quickly pursuing its contents. A curse escaped his lips. "What is it, what does it say?" asked Anne fearfully.
Darcy looked at her. "It is from Wickham."
Anne feared the worst. "And?"
"He has left town."
Anne looked at him. "That is a good thing, right?"
Darcy shook his head. "He has taken Elizabeth with him."
Chapter 33
Anne's face registered shock and disbelief. "What do you mean?"
Darcy repeated with a sigh. "Wickham has left town with Elizabeth."
Anne frowned. "You do not seem terribly surprised. Were you expecting this?"
"Not exactly," Darcy shook his head.
"But you were expecting something?"
"I have learned to expect anything as far as Wickham is concerned."
Anne shook her head. "Where has he gone?"
Darcy shrugged as he glanced at the letter again. "It does not say. I suppose he is not too far away from town. He still needs my money."
"Ah yes, the money," said Anne a little puzzled. "He still does not have the money. I do not understand. Why has he left then? To what purpose?"
Darcy replied, "I really cannot say. There could be any number of reasons. Knowing Wickham, he has enough enemies to make him seek shelter away from town." He referred to the letter again. "He wants me to deliver the sum to a Miss Margaret Simmons." Darcy paused and frowned. "That is odd. He generally operates alone." He shrugged. "She shall contact us here and we will be given further directions at a later time."
"Further directions?" fumed Anne. "This is wonderful. Elizabeth is at the mercy of a mercenary lunatic who has dangerous enemies and we are sitting here sipping coffee? This inaction is useless, Darce. If we do not attempt to help Elizabeth, she will never become free of Wickham."
"Do you think I like this any more than you do?" Darcy asked. "Anne, there is nothing in the world I would like better than to chase Wickham out of Elizabeth's life, but you know that I cannot be hasty. Elizabeth can not afford any precipitous action. Wickham is no fool, and if he senses that we are trying to deprive him of money, goodness knows what he shall do. Can we really afford to risk Elizabeth's life?"
"You think her life is in danger?" Anne whispered in horror.
Darcy nodded sadly. "Unfortunately, yes. Wickham is capable of murder, make no mistake. He is a cold, brutal man; you saw yourself what he did to her face. Can you see now why I am not rushing into action?"
"Yes," sighed Anne. "But I feel so helpless."
"As do I," said Darcy wryly.
She looked at Darcy. "Do you have any hint of a plan?"
"As a matter of fact...no," Darcy smiled slightly.
"Ah, my confidence in you increases with every passing moment," retorted Anne.
Darcy became serious. "You must trust me, Anne. I will not desert Elizabeth. I will help her."
"We have to find her first," Anne reminded her. "Maybe this Miss Simmons can be of some assistance?"
"I doubt it," said Darcy. "She is not likely to divulge any sort of information. She must be entirely trustworthy or Wickham would never have chosen her."
"Perhaps so," said Anne. "But every human being has a weakness. We just have to find hers."
"And how exactly do you propose to do that?" asked Darcy skeptically.
"If I had all the answers," replied Anne. "I would not be sitting here; utterly useless."
"Thank you, Anne," said Darcy with mock-seriousness.
"Oh come, Darce, you do not provide the most stimulating conversations, especially when you are moping."
"So I am boring as well?" said Darcy with a small smile. "And I am not moping."
"Oh, you are, trust me, you are," said Anne. "You miss Elizabeth."
"Of course I miss her," said Darcy.
"Well, I miss her too," said Anne with a rueful smile. "She has become an inherent part of my life. I cannot imagine having to live without her."
Darcy looked at her and smiled comfortingly. "With any luck, you will not have to."
"We should tell the Gardiners what has happened," said Anne.
"Yes, indeed. I will go there directly."
"I shall stay here," said Anne. "In case Miss Simmons decides to pay us a little visit."
"Good idea," said Darcy, rising from the table.
As he began to leave the room, Anne said, "Darce?"
"Yes?" Darcy looked at her expectantly.
"We will get her back."
Darcy smiled. "Yes we will."
~~
Elizabeth prepared breakfast with a look of resignation about her. She did not seem to mind the dinginess of the accommodations or the stench that pervaded the atmosphere and assailed her senses. Her outward calm was impenetrable; indeed, one would have assumed that she was quite happy with her situation. Of course, that could be further from the truth, but Elizabeth would have been glad to know that her efforts at concealing her true feelings were successful. The last thing she wanted was to give Wickham the satisfaction of knowing that he had ruffled her calm and poise, that she was scared and that she prayed for a miracle every single day.
"You are out of practice, my dear," said Wickham entering the small kitchen. "I have been awaiting my coffee for well over a half hour. I suppose the luxury of Darcy's cooks and maids has made you forget how to cook."
Elizabeth did not say a word, simply handing him a cup of coffee and busying herself with some eggs.
Wickham accepted the cup, and said, "Elizabeth, you will look at me when I speak to you."
Elizabeth could not ignore the menace in his voice. She glanced briefly at him. "Or else? What can you do to me? Kill me? Well, go ahead. I could care less."
Wickham smiled slightly. "Oh, I would never make it that easy for you, my dear. You would be the one to die, no. Not you, not now, at least."
Elizabeth shuddered and looked at him. "What do you want from me?"
"You means besides your love?" grinned Wickham.
Elizabeth felt nauseated. "Please be serious."
Wickham looked at her. "Since you and I shall be together for some considerable time, I think you should acquaint yourself with your surroundings and pay me some respect. You still are my wife and you shall perform your duties as such."
Elizabeth felt a terror overcome. Her duties as a wife? Elizabeth had no doubt what he was referring to and the mere thought made her wince. "I may be your wife in law, but not in spirit. You dare not touch me."
Wickham seemed amused. "Very feisty, my dear." He said no more, however.
Elizabeth sighed in relief. The crisis had been averted for now. She inhaled a deep breath and then said, "You never told me why we left town."
"I have too many enemies who would rejoice my demise," replied Wickham simply.
"I am not surprised," muttered Elizabeth under her breath.
"What did you say?" Wickham regarded her suspiciously.
Elizabeth looked flustered. "Nothing."
"I have asked a friend of mine to see Darcy and get the money," continued Wickham. "I expect to hear from her in a few days."
"What then?" Elizabeth ventured to ask.
"I have not decided yet," said Wickham.
"How long must we stay here?" asked Elizabeth.
"I am not certain," said Wickham. "You have many questions, my dear."
"I like to know," shrugged Elizabeth.
"Indeed," smiled Wickham. "You will get used to it."
"To what?"
"Living with me," said Wickham.
"And how long shall that be?" said Elizabeth with a small frown.
"A very long time," laughed Wickham.
"Mr. Darcy would not stand for it," said Elizabeth with confidence.
"He, my dear, will not have a choice," said Wickham.
Elizabeth said nothing. Indeed, there was nothing to say.
~~
Anne put away her needlework. Her heart was not in her work and she could hardly concentrate on it. There were too many other thoughts vying for her attention. She looked at the embroidered handkerchief in her hand. Elizabeth had made it for her. Anne sighed. She missed Elizabeth terribly. Elizabeth had become a sister to her. They had shared secrets and advised each other on the matters of the heart. If Elizabeth had not intervened, perhaps she would not be engaged to Richard at this moment. Elizabeth had been a true friend and Anne felt acutely that she was not returning the favor. Despite Darcy's assurances to the contrary, Anne felt that there must be some way to aid Elizabeth without endangering her life. She just had to find it. Somehow, Anne sensed that Miss Margaret Simmons was the answer.
"Lord Victor Sheffield," the butler announced.
Lord, he is the last thing I need right now. Anne arose to greet him, nonetheless.
"Good morning, Anne," Victor greeted her without his usual grin, but with a somber expression.
"Good morning, Victor. Please be seated," Anne said.
"Thank you," Victor sat down. "I need to see Elizabeth."
"I see you have not heard," Anne said with some surprise.
Victor seemed confused. "Not heard what exactly."
"Elizabeth is not here," Anne said.
"Where is she then?"
"I really cannot say," Anne said with a shrug.
"Anne, I have no time for games."
"Neither have I," said Anne. "I cannot say where Elizabeth is because I do not know myself." Victor's interest seemed piqued. "Her husband is alive. He came here the night of the dinner at the Gardiners and took Elizabeth with him. He has since left town to some undisclosed location."
Victor's surprise was evident. "Oh my," he murmured.
"Yes, my sentiments exactly," said Anne.
"What is being done to recover her?" asked Victor.
"I really do not see how that is any of your concern," Anne said.
"Anne, please, I need to know. I think I deserve to," said Victor.
"And why is that?"
"Elizabeth is a very dear friend," Victor said.
Anne looked at him for a moment, then sighed. "Wickham wants money. Darce is paying him ten thousand pounds for now."
"For now?" Victor raised his eyebrows. "You mean Wickham will not relinquish Elizabeth after this payment?"
"Probably not," Anne shook her head.
"That is insane!" exclaimed Victor.
"Yes, but there is no other choice," said Anne.
"Can we not rescue Elizabeth sooner?" asked Victor.
"We?" Anne repeated. "Victor, you are not part of this."
"Too late," said Victor. "I already am."
Anne shook her head. "You are too presumptuous."
"Three heads are always better than two," said Victor.
"Not when the third is yours," said Anne, pouting.
"I only want to help Elizabeth," said Victor.
"Then leave her alone," snapped Anne.
Victor looked at her. "Today I came to say goodbye."
Anne seemed surprised. "Goodbye?" she repeated.
"You were right, Anne. She loves Darcy," Victor's pain was evident.
Anne was touched. "I am sorry, Victor."
"No, you are not," said Victor. "You are relieved."
Anne could not deny that. "I am still sorry that you were hurt."
"I would not have it any other way," said Victor.
Anne smiled compassionately at him. "So altruistic are you?"
"I have to be," said Victor. "I love Elizabeth and I only want to see her happy."
"So do I," sighed Anne. "But we must find her first."
"Have you no way of finding her?" asked Victor.
"Well, Wickham said in his letter that a friend of his, Miss Margaret Simmons would contact us, but..."
Victor interrupted her. "Margaret Simmons?" he repeated slowly.
"Yes, why?" said Anne.
"I know her," said Victor, excitedly.
"You do?" said Anne. "How is that possible?"
"It's a long story," said Victor.
"Do you know where she lives?"
"Yes," nodded Victor.
Anne's eyes shone with excitement. "Do you suppose she will tell you where Wickham went?"
"I am certain she will," said Victor.
"Then what?" said Anne.
"We will go and rescue Elizabeth from that fiend," said Victor.
"But Darce thinks that might be too dangerous," said Anne.
"Darcy does not have to know," said Victor with a small smile.
"But Elizabeth will still be married even if we rescue her," said Anne.
Victor frowned. "We shall worry about that when we have her."
Anne was silent for a moment. "It might just work," she finally said.
"Of course it will," said Victor. "I will go talk with Margaret today and perhaps even go to find Elizabeth tonight."
"I am coming with you," said Anne.
"No, you are not," said Victor. "It might be too dangerous."
"Too bad," said Anne with a shrug.
"Anne, this is not for you," said Victor. "I will bring Elizabeth back safely."
"I am coming, Victor and you cannot dissuade me."
Victor looked at her and sighed. "You are determined then?"
"Very," nodded Anne.
"All right, then," said Victor. "Be ready to leave tonight."
Anne said, "Be careful that Darce does not hear you when you come. Wait outside and I will slip out quietly. We cannot have Darce suspicious in the least."
Victor nodded. "Well, I shall go to see Margaret then." He got up and bowed.
"You are not that bad, Victor," said Anne as he began to leave.
Victor looked at her and smiled, "Is that a compliment?"
"Perhaps so," smiled Anne in return.
"Well, thank you, then," said Victor.
"Good luck, Victor."
Anne watched him leave with a small smile playing on her lips. She was so engrossed in her own thoughts that she did not notice Darcy come in. He looked at Anne's dreamy smile and cleared his throat.
"Oh there you are Darce," said Anne.
"I saw Victor leave," said Darcy. "What did he have to say?"
"Nothing in particular," said Anne innocently.
Darcy looked at her suspiciously. "Anything else you wish to tell me?"
"No," Anne shook her head.
Darcy said nothing, but his suspicion was aroused. Anne was up to no good and he would find out what exactly she was hiding.
~~
Victor knocked on the door.
"Who is it?" came a voice from inside.
"Margaret, it's Victor," said Victor.
Margaret opened the door. "Victor darling. What a surprise."
Victor looked at her. "Can I come in?"
"Indeed," Margaret let him in. "To what do I owe this pleasure?"
"To whom," Victor corrected her.
Margaret raised her eyebrows. "To whom, then."
"George Wickham," said Victor.
Margaret's face paled. "Wickham sent you here?"
"No," Victor shook his head.
"Then why are you here?" Margaret seemed suspicious.
"For some information," said Victor.
"What kind of information?"
"Where is Wickham?"
Margaret shrugged. "I do not know."
"Yes, you do," said Victor. "I know you do."
Margaret was not discomfited. "Well, you are wrong. Is that all?"
Victor shook his head. "You are lying, Margaret."
"Even if I was," said Margaret. "Which I am not, but let us say I was. Why would I tell you where Wickham was?"
Victor looked at her. "Why are you helping him Margaret?" Margaret looked away. "Oh, I see," said Victor.
She looked at him. "What?"
"You love him," said Victor.
"What if I do?" said Margaret.
Victor's suspicions were confirmed. "Well, I am sorry that you don't want to help me." He looked at her. "I could have told you the truth about Wickham." He shrugged and began to walk away.
"Victor wait," said Margaret.
Victor turned around. "Yes."
"What do you mean?"
"Why should I help you if you refuse to help me?" said Victor.
"I have not ruled out that possibility," said Margaret. "What do you know about Wickham?"
"Do you know why he left?" asked Victor.
Margaret seemed hesitant. "He has some business."
"Some business, indeed," laughed Victor. "What has he promised you?"
Margaret looked at him suspiciously, then said, "We will be married when he returns."
"Is that what he told you?" said Victor.
"Yes."
"Well, then I am truly sorry," said Victor.
"Why?" Margaret asked.
"I suppose he forgot to tell you that he is already married," said Victor.
Margaret paled. "You are lying."
"Margaret, my reason, what reason have I to lie?" said Victor. "Where do suppose Wickham is right now? With his wife, Elizabeth."
"You are lying," repeated Margaret.
"Well, believe that if you want," said Victor. "But your Wickham is not coming back."
"Why not?"
"Because Elizabeth will not let him leave her," Victor said smoothly.
"Why are you so interested?" asked Margaret suspiciously.
"I might as well tell you," said Victor. "I love Elizabeth." That much was true. "If I knew where she was, I would speak with her and persuade her to let Wickham go. Then he would be free to come back to you."
Margaret seemed to weigh his words. "Do you think it would work?"
"I am certain it will," said Victor, disguising his triumphant feelings. "Trust me, Margaret."
Margaret considered it for a moment. "All right." She told him Wickham's location.
"Thank you, Margaret," smiled Victor. "You shall hear from Wickham before long."
He bowed and hastily left the room. Once outside, he sighed, thanking his lucky stars. Hold on, Elizabeth, my love. I am coming