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Fire and Cross - Regency, NC-17, What if Mr. Darcy's future was pledged to an unknown lady since his youth? (Thanks tJean for beta'ing up to Chapter 10. The rest is still unbeta'ed. Please bear with my mistakes). The story is mainly told through Mr. Darcy's point of view. Charter 1
“Fire! Fire!” The loud yelling woke up George Darcy from his deep sleep. Blinking open his eyes, he saw smoke blackened the whole room. He jumped up from the bed and dashed to the door. But the thick cloud hindered his progress; especially since he was unfamiliar with the layout of the inn.
“Anne! Fitzwilliam!” He called out desperately as he stumbled his way around, trying to find the door to the corridor. His wife was not feeling well and she retired in a separate chamber. Their son wanted to keep her company.
When he finally pushed open the door and came to the landing, a piece of wood fell from the ceiling and hit him on the right shoulder, scorching his arm. Gasping in pain, he leaned on the railing heavily.
“Anne! Fitzwilliam!” Believing his wife and young son still trapped in their room, he continued calling out for them as he walked on. Smoke was less intense here. As he turned left at the corridor, a medium built man emerged from Darcy’s right and pulled at his arms.
“Sir you cannot go that way!” The man had an educated voice, a country gentleman perhaps, judging from his clothes. “The fire started from that left side and it seems to be burning like hell.”
Mr. Darcy coughed heavily as he tried to pull away from the other man. Suddenly the sound of a baby stopped his movement. The country gentleman was carrying a baby.
“Shh, my dear, all will be well!” The man rocked the baby quickly as he continued to pull Mr. Darcy away.
“No, I must go that way. My wife and son are there.”
“You are injured. They may have already run out. We should check outside first.” The gentleman was now using his shoulder to prevent George Darcy from passing through. He was clearly not injured by the smoke or the fire yet.
“Let me go! I have to find Anne and Fitzwilliam!” Mr. Darcy cried out angrily.
“Even if you find them, you cannot carry them out. You are hurt.” The gentleman got angry at George’s stubbornness as well. With a shake of his head, he thrust the baby unto Darcy’s hands. “Take my daughter out to safety! I shall find your wife and son for you.” Then he pushed Darcy towards the direction of the stairs.
“No!” George Darcy did not want the stranger hurt for his family’s sake. But as the figure of the country gentleman dashed into the left side of the hallway, amidst heavy smoke, Darcy could do nothing but carry the baby girl down the stairs.
When he finally went outside of the Bromley Inn and drew in a breath of fresh air, he was led by some servants to lie on the grass. He scanned the crowd and could not see his wife or son anywhere. He wanted to get up himself to race back into the Inn again but his body was not under his control from all the pain. He could hardly move.
As grim emotion gripped his heart, fearing for his wife and young son, the baby in his arm was strangely quiet. The bright moonlight allowed George Darcy to look at her clearer. She was dressed in a baby cloth of modest quality, not expensive or fine but clean and neat. She had big expressive eyes and a few brown curls. Her silence seemed to bring him some calmness.
His arm hurt like hell and the smoke he inhaled made him feel dizzy. Through the haze, his eyes turned to fix at the front of the inn. He prayed for the safe return of his family.
Suddenly the baby stretched her arms and touched his face. He turned to look at her again. She gave him a bright smile. George Darcy’s heart squeezed. He made a heartfelt wish upon seeing the babe’s encouraging smile and hoped both Anne and Fitzwilliam would be safe.
“I am willing to part with the most important thing in my life for a miracle that my family will be rescued!” He swore. He squeezed his eyes shut and prayed. “A newborn signifies happiness. I pledge the future of the Darcy line to you dear one. May you bring us forever joy?”
He opened his eyes and looked at the baby girl. She had stretched out her hands from the blanket and seemed to be clapping her hands.
Darcy put his hand into the pocket of his waistcoat and drew a tiny velvet box out he had safely kept hidden. In it was a garnet cross with ruby red gemstones on a stunning silver necklace. He had it made by an exclusive jeweller for his wife Anne’s 28th birthday and inscribed the words “Forever as One”. He put the necklace inside the pocket of the baby’s dress. “You are too young to wear it yet but I pray it brings us all good fortune, precious baby girl. Bring back Anne and Fitzwilliam to me.”
He shut his eyes and prayed again. He wished he could remember the baby’s name. But everything was too painful for him at the moment.
“Agha! Agha!” The cheerful sound of the baby alerted George Darcy from the fog of pain. He turned his head back to look at the front of the inn.
Loud yelling was heard and through his smoke strained eyes, he saw the country gentleman emerging from the inn. In his arms was a woman. A young lad had his arms around the man’s waist as he tagged along behind him.
The gentleman scanned through the crowd and finally landed his eyes on Darcy and the baby.
As the baby’s father drew closer, George could see that he was carrying Anne and the lad holding his waist was Fitzwilliam.
“They are safe!” George Darcy breathed out a sigh of relief and kissed the cheek of the baby girl. “Thank you! You are our saviour!” Then his voice stuck in his throat as the pain finally took hold of him and he felt into blackness.
When George Darcy regained consciousness, it was two days later. Mrs. Darcy was unconscious for a few hours but their loyal servants had been able to get them settled in another inn and their doctor was called from London.
By the time he asked about the identity of the country gentleman and the baby girl, none of the servants were even aware of them. If Fitzwilliam had not said that the father and his baby daughter had left with a “get well soon” goodbye amidst the flurry of activity to bring the injured to another inn, George Darcy would have thought his family’s saviours were an apparition.
***
The day Fitzwilliam Darcy buried his father; he discovered that his future was promised to an unknown woman. In a letter left to him by his father, Fitzwilliam relived the fire at Bromley Inn when he was eight years old. His father wished for him to find this gentleman and his daughter whom he was unable to locate and offer for her. “A promise to the Lord cannot be rescinded, son! I had so many more years with your mother and with you, all thanks to this gentleman and his precious baby girl.”
Fitzwilliam Darcy was resentful about this request. He did not remember his rescuer, let alone the baby girl. At the young age of twenty-three, he was supposed to be carefree and enjoy his life. But his father died and left him with the huge responsibility of rearing a sister 10 years his junior. How could you leave me alone like this, father?
And now he found that he was promised to a stranger, who could be ugly or witless. Where will I find this gentleman and his daughter? How long should I try searching for them before I give up? What if I meet another woman I love instead? Am I to give up my future for my father’s moment of…insanity? Weakness?
But a strong heart and years of proper breeding and an excellent education meant that Fitzwilliam would overcome his anger and grieve soon enough. He spent the next few years mainly establishing himself as a good brother, master and landlord.
He also hired an ex-Bow Street runner to trace the baby girl and her father. But after a year without any success, he abandoned the search and put the incident behind him. “May the Lord help me plan my future as He sees fit.”
***
Five years later, it was an absolute shock to Mr. Darcy to meet the woman wearing the garnet cross his father described in his last letter.
He had known Charles Bingley and his sisters since their days together at Cambridge. Miss Caroline Bingley was a lady who always treated people condescendingly and scornfully, especially servants and those from lower circles. She had set her cap on Darcy and was relentless in her pursuit of him whenever they were in company together.
Darcy would never have considered her as a partner for life; if not for finding out this last summer that she was in possession of the garnet cross.
One morning, out of nowhere, she came with Bingley to visit Darcy at his townhouse in London. It was then that he noticed on her over-powdered chest sat this ruby garnet cross. She talked about it as her treasured possession since she was a baby.
“Why is it a treasure? I never saw you wearing it before.” Bingley asked his sister with a frown. Darcy was thankful that his friend was asking the question for him, because he could not shake the thoughts to be forever linked to her.
“Charles, there are things you do not know of because you were not born yet!” Caroline replied with a raised voice.
“The design looks quite special. So father gave it to you when you were a baby? It was a strange thing for a baby. I would have thought it suited a grown woman better.” Bingley said.
“It was a mysterious gift from an acquaintance of father.” Caroline looked at Darcy with a smile as she replied. “I never wore it before because I only found it in father’s treasure chest a few days ago with a letter about it.
“Was … there an inscription on it?” Darcy finally managed to gather his wits to ask.
“It was so beautiful, why…” Caroline stopped in mid sentence. She fingered the pendant and then turned her eyes away from Darcy. “Oh, I totally forgot I had another appointment with Miss Wolfring.”
When the Bingleys left in haste, Darcy was left in total confusion. He feared for his future happiness if Miss Bingley was truly to be his betrothed. But a promise was a promise. He would not fail his dearly departed father’s last wish.
But the way she avoided answering his question about the inscription had Darcy suspicious. Perhaps Miss Bingley somehow found out about the story behind the garnet cross and tried to force his hand in marriage. His mind was in turmoil. He needed to go see his sister Georgiana, to make sure he would not act in haste and tie their future to this mean spirited lady.
***
Such was his luck to arrive in Ramsgate suddenly and prevented his sister from falling into the prey of George Wickham. Georgiana was persuaded she was in love and had agreed to elope with the scoundrel. Luckily when Darcy talked to her about his own future in regards to the necklace, his sister then confessed to him the imminent elopement with Wickham.
After Darcy sent away the rake and the governess, Mrs. Younge and then settled Georgiana back in Pemberley, he rethought his own future. He had to agree that perhaps Miss Bingley was truly that baby girl of long ago. She was the reason the Darcy family was saved.
Therefore, he took up Bingley’s invitation, leaving Georgiana in Pemberley.
He went to stay at Bingley’s newly rented estate and nursed the heartache of failing to protect his sister Georgiana from last summer’s fiasco. He was seriously thinking of offering to Miss Bingley. Perhaps she would know how to lift his sister out of her depression.
But two days later, imagine his shock! On arriving at Meryton’s Assembly, he came face to face with a second woman who also wore the unique garnet cross. How could there be another garnet cross of the same unique design? And it appeared so similar to the other one Miss Bingley was wearing. How could that have happened after his years of searching?
He wanted to talk to the young lady about it but her mother, Mrs. Bennet, had no sense of propriety. She looked at Bingley and himself with calculating eyes, trying to push her daughters to dance with them.
He turned to see that Miss Bingley was also in shock. She did not wear the necklace tonight. In fact, she had not worn it again after Darcy arrived in Netherfield two days ago.
Bingley was oblivious to the tension in his friend or sister. He had asked the most beautiful angelic lady to dance with him.
"So who is to be my wife? Miss Bingley or Miss Elizabeth Bennet? The woman my father swore my future to." Darcy had stalked off to the farthest end and leaned on the wall of the Assembly room. He was suddenly very angry again.
“How can father link me to either of them? Miss Bingley is mean, fawning and mercenary. And Miss Elizabeth – she is from such a family? The mother is loud and silly. The eldest daughter, Miss Jane Bennet, though very handsome, smiles too much. The other three or two daughters are running wild in the room, flirting with almost anyone. How can my connection with any of them help Georgiana through her trials? And this Elizabeth Bennet, she is hardly tolerable… There is more than one failure of perfect symmetry in her form. Her manners are not those of the fashionable world. At least, Miss Bingley is more elegantly dressed. That cannot be much better. My future cannot possibly be linked to either of them. Perhaps I am right. Miss Bingley somehow has faked that necklace and someone else must have given Miss Bennet the garnet cross necklace. There must be some way that I can find out the truth!”
***
Decidedly, Mr. Darcy strode to ask Miss Bingley for a dance. The young lady accepted with keen interest.
“Mr. Darcy,” She spoke with a smirk, “Have you seen such savage society before?”
“Why do you think them savage?”
“Come, come, sir! Do you not see the dresses of the women? They are horrible, at least three seasons old. A definite imitation of the sophistication of the ton but with poor workmanship.”
“I am no expert of women’s fashion. But I am fascinated by Miss Elizabeth Bennet’s.”
“Miss Eliza’s?” Did Miss Bingley’s voice really sound trembling? “How so?”
“She wore a garnet cross, very similar to the one you said was left by your father.”
She drew in a deep breath. “I see you are as astonished as I am.”
“So you have no idea how such a happenstance could occur?” Mr. Darcy asked with a serious countenance.
“I could not possibly know why.””
“If you do not mind my intrusion, could you share with me what your father said in his letter that accompanied this piece of jewel?”
Miss Bingley hesitated for a few seconds before replying. “I do not understand your interest in the cross.”
“What about the back of it? Does it have anything interesting on it?” He persisted.
“I see, you are asking about…the inscription.” Miss Bingley’s eyes darted to another lady in the room.
“So there is an inscription?” Darcy asked the question curiously, in order to throw Caroline off balance.
She turned her gaze back to him. “Well, I have not worn it since that day in London. I shall have to examine it more closely later on.”
“You have brought it to Hertfordshire?”
“Indeed, I would not want to part with such a previous gift.”
“And yet, you are unsure of the design at the back.”
“I was more fascinated by the story behind it.”
“But you prefer not to share it with me?” Darcy continued.
“It was rather private.”
“Yes, I am sure.” He nodded and murmured in a low threatening voice. “So private that you may have known just the half of it.”
Feeling the tremor in Miss Bingley’s hands, he was sure that she possessed a fake garnet cross. Angry at her deception, he spent the rest of the dance in cold silence.
When the dance ended, he took Caroline to Bingley and said intently in front of her, “Charles, could you introduce me to Miss Elizabeth Bennet? She seems…intelligent enough for me to become acquainted with her.””
Bingley laughed and shook his head. “Darce, it is a dance, not a debate!” They left Miss Bingley alone, starring daggers at this Miss Eliza.
Miss Elizabeth was surprised by the introduction and the request for a dance. But she accepted gracefully.
Mr. Darcy could see the amazed looks on her mother and the other people in the room. They must be congratulating themselves on the good fortune of their local beauty, for the young man of ten thousand a year had not danced or talked with anyone else from the neighbourhood yet.
He was uncomfortable with the situation. Never good at conversation with a stranger, he was racking his brain as to how to interrogate this lady about the cross.
“We must have some conversation, sir.” The lady said with a playful tone.
“Do you speak according to rule?”
“No, indeed. But would it not seem awkward to spend half an hour together without an exchange of a single word?” She arched her eyebrows. “I can talk about the dresses of the ladies. You can comment on the wine being served.”
“Do you presume to know my interest?”
“If you ask a question every time you honour me with your voice, I shall have to presume a great deal.”
‘How very impertinent this young lady is!’ Darcy thought. But he could not stop his lip from curling up to smile. At least, she was not agreeing with everything he said. Let me see what she will say about the garnet cross. “I am interested in your necklace.”
She cast a glance at the jewellery on her bosom. “Indeed? May I ask why?”
“It is a very unique design.”
“Since I have not seen many great pieces of jewellery, I cannot know if it is unique or not.”
“But what attracted you to buy it in the first place?”
“I did not buy it.”
“Your parents?”
She shook her head.
“I am intrigued now.” He looked at her intensely.
“You would know soon enough anyway. Mama likes to talk about it.”
He tilted his head to urge her on silently.
“It was left in my clothes when I was a baby.”
Darcy missed a step and stepped on Miss Bennet’s toes. She cried out. He was so surprised by what she said that he was not aware of what happened to his dance partner.
His mind was unprepared for this. He was hoping against hope that she obtained the garnet cross through other means. He was praying that she would not be his betrothal. What shall I do? His mind was full of confused thoughts and continued in an agitated silent manner until the dance ended.
When he brought Miss Elizabeth back to where her mother stood, he did not give both ladies a polite bow. Mrs. Bennet blamed Lizzy and lamented her second daughter for upsetting the rich man for the rest of the whole night.
Chapter 2
Mr. Darcy spent the night in turmoil, arguing with himself about the morality of obeying his father’s wish or not. The next day, the gentlemen went out for a meeting with some officers stationed in the town.
Darcy was in no humour to meet more new acquaintances. But to spend the day with the ladies was even worst. On their return, they learned that Miss Jane Bennet was invited to Netherfield and had fallen ill while riding on horseback during the torrential rain. Miss Bingley had sent for the apothecary and a letter to inform her family.
On the morning of the second day, Miss Bingley greeted the gentlemen angrily when they broke their fast.
“Besides the lack of decorum, this Bennet family is entirely witless.” She said.
“Caroline!”
“What? Did you not notice Miss Bennet’s mother at the Assembly? She was saying Mr. Darcy must be attracted to Miss Eliza’s curves! How crude!”
Indeed! Elizabeth’s form may not be in perfect symmetry but she does have a gorgeous bosom with alabaster skin.’ Darcy smiled. ‘Her bottom certainly appeared to be quite pert and shapely, too. Stop it, man! A gentleman must not think such vulgar things about a lady. Did you not at first think that she was not handsome enough to tempt you at the Assembly? And do not forget she has a horrible mother.
“Caroline, you appear even more crude for repeating such a remark.” Bingley protested.
“Mrs. Bennet said Mr. Darcy’s ten thousand a year would do very well for all her daughters when her husband dies for their estate is entailed away. They have an uncle in trade, living in Cheapside and another uncle in Meryton who is merely an attorney.” Caroline continued in her course of exposing the unsuitability of the Bennets’ low connections.
Am I to be burdened with a whole circle of connections decidedly below my own? Darcy frowned.
“You forget that our fortune comes from trade as well.” Bingley argued.
Caroline gave her brother an angry stare. “Mr. Darcy, you are very silent. What do you think of Miss Eliza? Should we congratulate your felicity soon?”
“Thank you for your concern with my future happiness,” Darcy gazed at her. “You seem very interested in Mrs. Bennet’s conversation. Perhaps you find a friend in her.”
Bingley burst out laughing. Caroline was trembling with anger. Mrs. Hurst, wanting to help her sister, provided more detail on their eavesdropping on Mrs. Bennet at the Assembly and their interrogation of Jane Bennet before she became ill.
“Mrs. Bennet also bragged about Miss Eliza’s good fortune. She said her second daughter was left with the exquisite garnet cross when she was a baby.”
Darcy turned to see Miss Bingley winking at her sister. Perhaps she tried to stop Mrs. Hurst.
“The garnet cross! I did not notice it at first when Miss Elizabeth was introduced to me. But when I danced with her, I noticed that it looked very similar to the one you wore, Caroline. I did not ask her about it for do you not agree it would seem rude for a gentleman to enquiry about a lady’s jewellery upon such short acquaintance?” Bingley asked.
Mrs. Hurst looked at her sister with confusion. “You have a similar piece of jewellery? Why did I not know about it?”
“I do not tell you about all the jewels I have.” Caroline tightened her lips.
Ah, so she did not tell her sister of the treasure her father left her? “Mrs. Hurst, do tell us more about Mrs. Bennet’s story.” Darcy said.
“If you would excuse me, with a sick patient, I have a lot to do.” Miss Bingley rose to take her leave. “Louisa, can you come? I have some private matter to discuss with you.”
Mrs. Hurst was about to rise when her brother stopped her. “You go along first, Caroline. Louisa can join you in a few minutes, after she answers Darcy’s question.”
Caroline sent Bingley an angry stare and sat down again. “I shall stay then.”
“Mrs. Hurst.” Darcy urged.
“Mrs. Bennet said they were staying in the Bromley Inn some twenty years ago. A fire broke out. Apparently her husband got separated from Miss Eliza for a few moments during the incident. When she returned home, she found this piece of expensive jewellery in Miss Eliza’s baby cloth.”
“I wager the Bennets have some unsavoury connection and they embellish a stolen piece of jewel with a story.” Miss Bingley added sharply.
“Caroline!” Bingley chastised her.
“Is there an inscription on it?” Darcy asked, though he knew there was no fighting his father’s wish. The story fit. But it seemed Mr. Bennet did not claim to be a hero. His respect for his saviour increased.
“Did you know about this jewel?” Bingley asked him. “You asked Caroline if her garnet cross had an inscription as well. In fact,” he turned to his sister, “you never answered his question.”
Caroline was breathing hard. “Yes, there is an inscription.”
“On yours or the one Miss Elizabeth’s has?”” Darcy said.
Before Miss Bingley replied, a caller was announced. “Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”
“I come to enquire after my sister.” She curtseyed.
The gentlemen rose. Darcy took in her appearance. Did she really walk three miles alone to visit her sister? It is not proper. But her face is rosy pink and her eyes sparkle. She looks so lovely with the curls hanging about her face that escape her hairpins. Stop it!
Caroline seized the opportunity and whisked her sister and the intruding caller away from the gentlemen.
***
Darcy completed his dinner preparation way too early. He learned that Bingley had invited Miss Elizabeth to stay with her sister. Miss Bingley had sent a servant to deliver a note to Longbourn and to fetch the guest’s trunk.
Early that day, the gentlemen had visited the patient. From the entrance to the sick room, Darcy could see that Miss Elizabeth was genuinely concerned for the wellbeing of her elder sister. Before Bingley made their presence known, she had been putting a cold compress on Miss Bennet’s forehead. She was wiping the patient’s neck and whispering tender words of encouragement to her sister.
Darcy’s heart swelled on seeing the scene. He could imagine Miss Elizabeth caring for Georgiana, nursing her from sickness and heartache. For the first time since learning of the history of the garnet cross, he felt at peace with his father’s pledge.
He decided to go to the billiard room for a game before dinner. On passing the corridor, he saw Miss Elizabeth, right at the entrance of her guest room.
He was about to bow and greet her when a noise sounded from her room.
“Yes!”
It was Miss Bingley.
Miss Elizabeth’s hand froze on the handle, unsure of what to do. A moment hesitation gave Darcy the idea. He put his hand on hers. They both gasped on contact. She looked at him with wide eyes. He then helped her open the door.
Miss Bingley was crouching on the floor, in front of a trunk. Darcy was distracted by the sight of stockings, stays, corsets and dresses, thrown haphazardly outside of the trunk. Glancing at Miss Elizabeth, he noticed a shade of pink spread from her cheeks, down her neck and to her chest.
“Why are you searching through my clothes?” Elizabeth asked angrily.
Darcy turned his attention back to Caroline. “You must want to swap your garnet cross with Miss Bennet’s?”
“What?” Elizabeth repeated in confusion. She did not see that Caroline was holding two garnet crosses in her hand.
Miss Bingley dropped one of them back into the disarray of clothes and closed the trunk immediately, with no regards to some of the garments being caught. She stood up and dashed for the door.
“Not so hasty, Miss Bingley!” Darcy commanded loudly. He was not master of hundreds of servants and tenants for nothing.
Caroline stopped momentarily.
“What is the matter?” Bingley appeared at the entrance, looking at three of them with confusion.
“I am sorry to pain you, Charles,” Darcy said. “Your sister has been going through Miss Bennet’s trunk for the garnet cross, in the hope of swapping it.”
“I did no such thing!” Caroline finally found her voice and protested.
Bingley drew in a deep breath. “Show me what you have in your hand.”
“I take offence to your tone, Charles. Remember I am your elder sister.”
“But as the master of this house, he has every right to see to a thief.” Darcy added.
“I am no thief!” Caroline hid her hands behind her back. “This is MY garnet cross.”
Elizabeth opened the trunk and found the necklace easily. “Why would Mother pack the garnet cross? I do not wear it except during special occasions.”
“Remember, Miss Bingley helped you send for the trunk.” Darcy folded his arms. “She could have easily persuaded your Mother that I am THE special occasion.”
Miss Bennet’s face turned even redder. She gave him a cold stare.
Before Caroline could open her mouth to protest, Bingley asked the guest, “Did your jewel have an inscription?”
“Yes, in …” Elizabeth replied. “But this is not my garnet cross! There is no inscription on it.”
“Caroline, how could you go through Miss Bennet’s belongings and swap your necklace for hers. What is the importance of this garnet cross?” Bingley said in raised voice.
“Whoever in possession of the treasure is your intended! Mr. Darcy, you cannot rescind on your father’s words. I have this garnet cross. We are to be married.” Miss Bingley waved the jewel in front of Mr. Darcy.
Both Elizabeth and Bingley gasped. They looked at Miss Bingley’s frantic gesture.
Darcy was extremely calm. Finally the secret was out. “How did you come across one of the pages of my father’s letter?”
“It is of no importance. I have the treasure. I shall be your wife and the next mistress of Pemberley.” Miss Bingley tilted her head.
“Then you apparently did not read the letter in full.” Darcy said. “Did you know why my father pledge my future to Miss Bennet?”
“I…I…” Caroline looked at Elizabeth. “My father and late Mr. Darcy met in Bromley Inn and made the marriage contract there.”
“In what year?” Darcy asked.
“I…I…was a baby. It must have been 1785.”
“Miss Bingley, my father made the pledge in 1791, when Miss Bennet was a baby. You were six years old by then. His pledge did not just mention that whoever in possession of the garnet cross will be my fiancée. There were circumstances you did not know. Please return the garnet cross to Miss Bennet.” Darcy commanded.
Anger rose in Caroline’s chest. She threw the necklace at Elizabeth and lunged at her.
Darcy dashed to Elizabeth’s side, embraced her and took the brunt of Miss Bingley’s beating.
Bingley stood in a stupor for a second before restraining his sister. Amid her loud screams and abuses, the host hauled Caroline over his shoulder and carried her out of the room. “It is all your fault! Mr. Darcy was going to offer for me. I had the garnet cross made exactly like the drawing on the letter. I could have been the Mistress of Pemberley if not for you… you penniless chit with no suitable connections or fortune. I shall ....”
“Are you hurt?” Darcy tilted Elizabeth’s head up to examine.
“I am fine.” She replied and struggled away from his embrace and went to retrieve the necklace on the floor.
“Is it damaged?” He frowned, not sure why she shied away from his touch.
She smoothed her hands over the front and back of the garnet cross and shook her head.
“Good. My late Father would be happy that it is not broken.” He walked near the window and looked out at the darkness. Thinking of his father gave him strength to tie his future with this unknown lady. He turned around and began the process. He gave Miss Bennet a brief accounting of what had happened at the Bromley Inn. “Now that you have heard the story behind it, I am sure you are ecstatic to know that we are betrothed.”
The lady was silent. But the high colour of her cheeks and her shortness of breath confirmed his estimation.
He felt the need to curb her enthusiasm, setting the boundary of their marriage. “Frankly speaking, I was very resentful when I read my father’s letter after he passed away. I did not appreciate the fact that my future would be tied to an unknown woman whom I do not know. She might be ugly or witless. What was Father thinking? When I saw the fake cross on Miss Bingley, I resented that she would be my intended. You probably can guess that she treats servants and people from lower circles meanly. And then when I saw the necklace on you, I was even angrier. Your mother and younger sisters behaved in a highly improper manner at the Assembly. Your coming here alone on foot was not looked upon in favour either. Nevertheless I could see that you are genuinely worried about your sister’s well being. Your caring nature throws you in good light. I am now at peace with my father’s momentary insanity. I would like to offer for you. But your family would need a lot of guidance on proper behaviour.”
After Darcy completed his proposal he anticipated hearing Miss Bennet’s acceptance. Instead, as he impatiently waited for her answer he then observed that the lady’s countenance was surprisingly full of anger.
“In normal circumstances such as this, even if the lady does not accept the offer, she should express her gratitude. However I can not. I never desired your offer and you decidedly bestowed it most unwillingly. Therefore, I release you from your father’s pledge. Good day, sir!” She walked near the door and held it open for him to leave.
Darcy was astonished by her refusal. He drew in deep breaths. Instead of walking to the door, he turned back to look out of the window. How could this have happened, Father?
The cloud in the sky was moving quickly. It seemed to tell him something. After a few moments of silence, he had himself under control and turned back to look at Elizabeth. Her eyes flashed with a burning flame. Why would she be so angry with such an eligible offer? Ire rose in his chest as well.
“Your father’s estate is entailed away. Have my father and I not bestowed the greatest fortune on you! May I ask why you reply with such lack of civility?”
“Am I uncivil?” Her voice rose. “What about you? Were you civil when you criticised my family and me, right in my face?”
“A gentleman less honest would hide his true concerns and offer you flattery. But disguise of every sort is my abhorrence. I am not in love with you and I would not express admiration where there is none.” Darcy paced around the room.
“A true gentleman would do his duty with humility. You belittled your father’s gratitude to the Lord. You censored my family’s behaviour without really knowing the circumstances behind it.”
“How can you expect me to rejoice in a connection so decidedly undesirable and below my own?”
“Sir, your arrogance, your conceit and your selfish disdain of the feelings of others are of no bounds. Although I have only known you for a few days, I already feel sure to say that you are the last man in the world whom I could ever be prevailed on to marry.”
“You have said quite enough, madam. I perfectly comprehend your feelings.” With that, he bowed and walked out of her room with fury in his chest. The loud slam of the door by the lady was one last blow to his mind.
The dinner at Netherfield and the breakfast the following morning were a quiet affair, with Miss Bingley, Miss Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy absent. It seemed a pandemic of headaches had descended in the house, with all three of them pleading to having one.
Darcy took his horse out for a ride very early. He was still outraged by Miss Elizabeth’s uncivil and ungrateful refusal. “Perhaps this is for the best. I am relieved of this obligation and can marry whomever I want now.”
Scanning the gentle slopes of Hertfordshire country side, he saw the vast difference of it from Derbyshire’s untamed beauty.
He suddenly felt a twinge of regret, of not knowing this contrasting county and its inhabitants more. Were the rocks and hills of Derbyshire truly superior to the flat horizon of Hertfordshire? Why did the Lord make such distinctive landscapes and people?
Should I not congratulate myself on having my own wealth and connection, over her lack of it? What would be a more gentlemanlike manner in face of such disparity? And what of her foolhardy behaviour? To refuse an offer that could save her family should her father meet his destiny? What made her so decidedly against me?
These conflicting ideas were bombarding his head, until he came upon a gentleman walking in a field.
“Sir, are you lost?” The gentleman greeted Darcy with a tip of the hat.
Darcy was in no humour to meet any new acquaintance. But this man reminded him of someone. Darcy got off the saddle and returned the greeting. “Darcy of Pemberley. I am a guest of Mr. Bingley at Netherfield.”
“Fitzwilliam Darcy? You have grown.”
“I beg your pardon. Have we met before?”
“You told me your name at the Bromley Inn some twenty years ago, though not where you hailed from. When I heard my wife talking about you a few days ago, I did wonder if you are the same lad.” Extending his hand he made the introduction, “Bennet of Longbourn.”
Darcy was in awe. Suddenly the frightening scenes during that fire so long ago flashed before his eyes. He remembered everything now. The sense of despair and helplessness when he tried to move his mother to safety sprung into his mind. He lacked the strength and prayed to the Lord that she would be saved. He had prayed out promising his life to the one who was saviour. And this gentleman did come to their rescue. He remembered the encouraging words Mr. Bennet said amidst the cracking sound of burning wood. The memory of dark choking smoke and intense heat which had stayed hidden at the back of his mind came rushing forth. He suddenly felt faint and as he started to sway towards the older gentleman, grabbed his shoulders and hugged him.
“Mr. Bennet, for many years I have wanted to thank you….” His voice was trembling. “Thank you for saving my mother and myself.”
“Do not mention it, son. I did what any gentleman would have done.”
The word “gentleman” sounded like thunder to Darcy’s ears. He was utterly ashamed of his uncharitable feelings towards Mr. Bennet’s family and his mode of declaration to his second daughter. If not for the older gentleman’s bravery, Darcy would not have grown into the master of Pemberley. His wealth and connection could not compare to the gift of life Mr. Bennet had given him.
“I must beg your forgiveness, sir.” Darcy said with head lowered.
“Whatever for?”
“I behaved not in a gentlemanlike manner towards Eliza…towards your second daughter.”
“What? What did you do to my Lizzy?” Mr. Bennet pushed Darcy away from him and glared at him.
“I insulted her with my offer of marriage.”
“What? Why would you offer her marriage? You have only known her for a few days.”
Darcy squared up his shoulders and told the older gentleman the pledge by his father and then his fiery exchange with Elizabeth.
“I did wonder where the garnet cross came from.” Mr. Bennet said as he walked slowly towards the other direction where Darcy had come from. Darcy followed him, not sure if his saviour would forgive his transgression.
“You are right, Mr. Darcy,” the older man said. “I have neglected the silly behaviour of my wife and younger daughters for too long. It grieves me to know that Jane and Lizzy’s future will be hurt by their impropriety.”
“Sir, please do not dwell on my arrogant opinions. Miss Elizabeth was right to call me conceited. And please call me Fitzwilliam.”
“Yes, Lizzy is correct. You are arrogant. But I do understand those are your genuine concerns.” Mr. Bennet stopped. He continued walking for some time. Emotions passing over his face. He looked unhappy and angry. “I am abashed to admit that the fire at Bromley had changed me for the worst.”
“I do not understand, sir. You did a brave act. How could it have changed you for the worst?”
“When I took your mother and you out, we stepped onto a gentleman’s body.” The grey haired gentleman drew in a deep breath. “Do you remember that?”
Mr. Darcy shook his head. He was too young or confused then.
Mr. Bennet continued. “I suddenly thought that I could have died like that man. How could I have left my wife, Jane and Lizzy to fend for themselves. I vowed to make up for them if I was fortunate enough to get out of the fire safely. From then on, I started to indulge my wife, showering her with gifts and allowing her to spend beyond our means.”
He stopped again, looking at a building not far away. It was a lovely house, about half the size of Netherfield. Mr. Bennet’s countenance seemed tortured. Darcy was sorry to evoke such painful memory in him.
“Did you know that my estate is entailed away?”
Darcy nodded.
Mr. Bennet continued, “I always thought that Fanny and I would have a son. So when I die, my daughters and Fanny will be taken care of. By the time I realised that I would not have a heir, it was too late to start saving. Fanny started to fear for the future. She became sillier and sillier in her pursuit to matchmake the girls to rich husbands.”
He shook his head and picked up his pace. “It is all my fault. I should have been more prudent to save up for my children’s future. But instead of doing that, I laughed and joked about Fanny’s silliness, allowing her to indulge in the younger girls too. I am utterly ashamed of myself. It is too late now. What can I do now? Both Jane and Lizzy and all of them will have to suffer for my incompetence!”
Darcy was surprised and saddened by Mr. Bennet’s revelation. He understood Elizabeth’s earlier indignation. He censored Mrs. Bennet and her younger daughters without taking the time to know them personally or the circumstances behind their present behaviour. Where was his humility or sensitivity to the feelings of others?
“Mr. Bennet, please do not blame yourself. But surely it is not too late to make amends. You are in good health. You can still start saving. You can still encourage your younger daughters to learn about the proper ways of society. If you do not mind my intrusion, may I offer my assistance?”
“Do you really think I can?”” Mr. Bennet stopped and looked at the younger man. Mr. Darcy’s eyes conveyed a look of admiration. The esteem of a grand master who possessed a large fortune seemed to give the older gentleman courage.
“I guess if I live to my sixties, I still have many more years to do so. Great, son, we are almost at Longbourn, my estate. My wife and the younger girls are visiting Netherfield at the moment. She said she had to instruct Lizzy on how to use her arts and allurements to snare you.” Mr. Bennet said with a sardonic smile. “Come, we will go to my study and start planning the grand scheme of saving the Bennet women!”
Chapter 3
Darcy’s face turned a shade of pink when Mr. Bennet talked about Elizabeth’s arts and allurements. The thought of her voluptuous figure, expressive eyes and passionate countenance made him very uncomfortable. He got the stable boy to take his horse. This activity gave him respite from Mr. Bennet’s prying eyes. And who would have the courage to take the grand master of Pemberley to task? Inwardly Darcy applauded Elizabeth’s fierce defence of her family, her tender caring of her sister and her unmoving dismissal of his fortune, making him realize she was not mercenary.
Was he man enough to gain her good opinion? He thought about the delights he would have to engage fiery debates with her along with her womanly luscious attributes. Perhaps in return for her favour he could teach her a few things about the world exposing her to a greater society than what she was presently limited to in the country.
He gasped for air and asked the older gentleman in a rush. “Mr. Bennet, would you grant me permission to court Miss Elizabeth?”
The older man stared at Darcy. Then his mouth curled up. “You want for more witty torture in your life?”
Darcy laughed out loud. He felt genuinely happy, like he was back by his father’s side. But Mr. Bennet was more playful, reminding him of Elizabeth. After he suppressed his laughter, he told Mr. Bennet seriously, “I think I begin to esteem your daughter. I would like to fulfil my father’s pledge one day, if I am lucky enough to earn Miss Elizabeth’s forgiveness and love.”
Mr. Bennet did not reply for a few moments. That made Darcy nervous. Perhaps his saviour was not impressed with his character. The ten thousand a year would not save Darcy’s estimation in the older gentleman’s mind after all.
“Sorry son, I cannot grant you permission.”
Darcy was crestfallen, like he was slapped in the face again, twice in two days!
“Cheer up son.” Mr. Bennet clasped Darcy’s shoulders and walked him into his study. He said in a whisper. “My Lizzy is a strange creature. If I force her to do something she does not desire, she will rebel. I think I know the way to help you advance your course, unless Mrs. Bennet has already gotten wind of the story behind the garnet cross.” He gave Darcy a wink as he closed the door.
Mr. Bennet and Mr. Darcy remained behind closed door for some hours, until the mistress burst into the room.
“Mr. Bennet, Lizzy will be the death of me! She did not heed what I told her. She said she would not get Mr. Darcy alone and encourage him with her charm. She would not stop her impertinent behaviour. How are we to survive after you die? And Mr. Darcy and Miss Bingley are not even present. They had headaches the night before. I suspect the lady is trying to use her arts and allurements to ensnare the gentleman. You did not see how Miss Bingley’s face turn green with envy when Mr. Darcy asked Lizzy to dance at the Assembly. I was sure the gentleman could not keep his eyes from our daughter’s bosom. But Lizzy is such an insolent girl! She will not be able to keep his interest with her constant talk of books. Fortunately Jane is still ill. I would not allow her to be moved back home yet. Perhaps a few more days in Netherfield will do the trick for Jane and Mr. Bingley. And I am so proud of Lydia! She asked Mr. Bingley to host a ball. Mr. Bingley said he would let her choose the date, after Jane is well again…”
“Mrs. Bennet, we have a guest here.”
The lady’s mouth formed an O when she saw Mr. Darcy by the wall with a book in his hand.
He gave her a bow. “Good day Mrs. Bennet.”
“Good morning, sir. I … did not know that Mr. Bennet and you have met…”
“I was inspecting the field on the south side when I had some chest pain.” Mr. Bennet rubbed his hand on his chest. “Mr. Darcy came upon me at that time.”
Darcy turned his eyes to look at the older gentleman. He looked rather normal. Was that a plot of his in the grand scheme? They had been talking about how to improve the management of Longbourn and Mr. Bennet had not said a word about not feeling well.
“Chest pain! You must have some hidden illness, like Mr. Thompson. He just dropped dead during the church service two months ago. You must go and lie down. I shall send for the apothecary. We cannot have you dead before we have our girls married! Mr. Darcy, you do not know how I worry every day. I pray to the Lord all the time. I would do anything, to see our girls well settled before the Lord takes Mr. Bennet away.”
“Well, Mrs Bennet perhaps the Lord would prefer to take you before me.”
“Mr. Bennet! My nerves!”
“I know your nerves very well. But if you would do anything to see our girls get married, Mr. Darcy has the solution for us.”
“Oh, Mr. Darcy, are you going to offer for my Lizzy? Are you enchanted by her form? She was never as handsome and obedient as Jane but she has the best figure. Mind you, Lydia will surpass her in a few years. If Lizzy would only heed my advice and stop skipping around the lanes and fields all day, her complexion will improve…”
Darcy gritted his teeth on hearing her belittling Elizabeth.
“Mrs. Bennet, you got it all wrong. Mr. Darcy suggested that I send you away.”
“What?”
“To accompany Kitty to a school. Kitty will learn some artistic skills to enchant rich young man while we arrange for you to learn how to present our girls to gentlemen of wealth.”
“Present our girls? Why would I need to learn that? I host the best parties in the neighbourhood, much to the envy of Lady Lucas. And what is the use of artistic skill? Men are not attracted to that!”
“Ah, so you do not want Lydia and Kitty to have a season in London? Well, Mr. Darcy, it seems we do not have to discuss how to increase the yield of the farms after all.”
“A season in London for Lydia? Really?” Mrs. Bennet turned to look at Mr. Darcy for confirmation.
“Yes, I have looked at Longbourn’s accounts and suggested Mr. Bennet to let some fields lay fallow to allow the soil to rest and encourage some of the tenants to use the French orangeries concept to grow flowers or fruit all year round…”
“You do not need to go into such detail for my wife. Mrs. Bennet, let me just say that we will have the money to launch our younger girls in society, and also Mary, if she is so inclined. You would not want to commit any mistakes during the season in town and possibly ruin Lydia and Kitty’s chance to make a good match?”
“Of course not! I would do anything. But is there a school for a matron as old as I am?”
“Who said you are old? You are still the young Fanny I met in the meadows some twenty years ago. The school is for Kitty but Mr. Darcy knows the headmistress there. Mrs. Watson used to be a companion of a Duchess. He is sure she will be willing to give you private lessons and teach you all the skills required to launch our girls into London society.”
“Oh Mr. Bennet!” She jumped up and went to give her husband a kiss on the cheek. “You are the best husband and father in the world. I shall go and pack…When are we going? Why is Lydia not coming too?”
“Perhaps in three days time. This school does not accept girls of Lydia’s age. And I thought you would prefer to go with Kitty, rather than Mary.”
“Of course. I would not understand a word of the sermons Mary says. But that means Kitty and I shall miss the ball at Netherfield. I cannot do that. What if Jane and Mr. Bingley get engaged then?”
“Mr. Darcy has another grand idea to help Lydia and Mary finds rich husbands. He will ask Mr. Bingley to postpone the ball until later.” The Master of Longbourn said.
Mr. Darcy looked at him with a frown. They did talk about how to improve the management of Longbourn and “educate” Mrs. Bennet, in the pretext of sending Kitty to school. It was a kind of “divide and conquer strategy” to separate the two major silly forces, of Mrs. Bennet and Miss Lydia, but they had not discussed about how to manage the behaviour of the latter yet.
“Oh, Mr. Darcy, I do thank the Lord the day Mr. Bingley decided to let Netherfield and that he invited you to stay with him.” Mrs. Bennet said with a big grin. She ran to Mr. Darcy’s side to give the younger man a kiss on the cheek too.
Mr. Darcy’s was surprised by such a familiar gesture of a near stranger. He almost pushed her away by reflex. Luckily Mr. Bennet’s wink stopped his action.
“Yes, Mr. Darcy is the best of man to come upon Hertfordshire for many years.” The older gentleman said with a smirk.
“So tell me your idea about Lydia and Mary, sir?” Mrs. Bennet went to sit down and looked at Mr. Darcy eagerly.
The younger gentleman looked at his co-conspirator for help.
“Let me do the honour, my dear,” Mr. Bennet said. “Lydia and Mary may not go to London yet. They have not observed how people in higher society live and behave. Before we give them a season, it will be advantageous to let them become accustom to such a way of life first. Mr. Darcy will ask Mrs Hurst to invite Lydia and Mary to stay at Netherfield for the winter, to learn about the best way to conduct themselves in society. If our younger girls become good friends to Mr. Bingley’s eldest sister, she may even invite an accomplished friend to come teach Lydia and Mary how to dance the latest dances and dress in the most fashionable ways.”
“Oh, my girls!” Mrs. Bennet fanned her flustered face. “What a great opportunity! I shall go and tell Lydia about it now.” She jumped up and left the room like a whirlwind.
Mr. Darcy looked at Mr. Bennet in awe. How could I demand Bingley to ask his eldest sister to do all that? And how can I find such a friend for Mrs. Hurst? He thought.
“Now Fitzwilliam, you must be careful and ask Mr. Bingley nicely to do all these.”
“I am afraid Bingley does not have a great influence on his elder sister.” Mr. Darcy paced around the room. “And I doubt Mrs. Hurst would have such a friend who would be willing to take on the task of educating Miss Lydia.”
“Ah, but I am sure you know such a lady. And are not all your friends welcomed by the Bingley sisters too? I am sure Mrs. Hurst and Mr. Bingley would not want me to send the magistrate for Miss Bingley, for stealing Lizzy’s garnet cross. After all you were witness to the theft.” Mr. Bennet folded his arms and rested his back comfortably on the chair.
A bright smile spread across Mr. Darcy’s face. Although he hated to use blackmail on his friend, it was a great idea to have a governess to teach Miss Mary and Miss Lydia the proper way of being a lady. He just did not understand why Mr. Bennet wanted them installed at Netherfield instead. He did not take to the idea of living under the same roof with them for a long time, yet. Perhaps after Elizabeth and he got married and the young Bennet sisters learned proper manners, he would not mind inviting them to stay in Pemberley for holiday.
“While the younger girls are learning their way in Netherfield, I shall invite you to stay at Longbourn to help me implement the farm improvement tasks.” Mr. Bennet said. “Lizzy has been helping me to deal with the tenants for a few years now. I am sure you two will work wonders to increase our income. And I cannot have you riding over here every day. What if you catch a cold from the rain like my poor Jane?”
Mr. Darcy’s smile became even wider. He took his leave of the older gentleman quietly, avoiding the loud screams and laughter of the ladies in the parlour.
***
When Mr. Darcy returned to Netherfield, he discussed Mr. Bennet’s requests with Bingley first. He confirmed the story behind the garnet cross but did not reveal to his friend Elizabeth’s rejection to his proposal. Later they talked to Mrs. Hurst. After the initial resistance, Mrs. Hurst agreed to the scheme with resignation.
Darcy also learned from Mrs. Hurst that Miss Bingley had grilled all the servants, despite her proclamation of having a headache the evening before, she made sure that no one would spread gossip about the incident in Elizabeth’s room.
So she did not want it known of her shameful way of swapping the jewellery and that my father had pledged my future to Elizabeth.
This suited him. He now understood that it would not do to his future happiness if Elizabeth was forced to marry him. He wanted her, to come to him willingly.
What he needed to do now was to persuade and even seduce her, with his wit, his manner and his admiration.
That evening, he dressed with special care. He hoped she would not dine in her sister’s room or claim to have a headache again.
Much to his delight, she came down for dinner. The elder Miss Bennet still stayed in her room, recovering. Elizabeth dressed with a shimmering green gown that accentuated her form and with the garnet cross adorning the curves of her neck and cleavage.
Hard on her heels was a black-faced Miss Bingley. She overtook Elizabeth and hurried to sit herself next to Mr Darcy.
“Miss Bennet, Miss Bingley, I hope you have recovered from your headache.” He said.
“Thank you, I am well.” Elizabeth said, her eyes sparkled with challenge.
“Oh, Mr. Darcy…” Miss Bingley was about to say something when he spoke at the same time.
“And you look exceptionally lovely, Miss Bennet.”
Miss Bingley sent her rival daggers with her eyes while Elizabeth seemed taken aback by his compliment.
“I agree,” Bingley said. “And how is your sister?”
“She is feeling much better. We have decided to take our leave and return home tomorrow morning.”
“Surely it is too soon to move Miss Bennet,” Bingley said with alarm. He must have wanted more time with his angel. “Your mother said so this morning too.”
The mention of Mrs. Bennet brought a shade of red on Elizabeth’s face. Darcy could imagine the embarrassment and frustration she had when her mother demanded her to tempt him.
“We do not want to intrude for too long.”
“Charles, let her be. I am sure Miss Elizabeth misses her father.” Miss Bingley said with false kindness. “I heard from Miss Bennet that they are very close.”
“I met your father today.” Mr. Darcy said.
The words sent both ladies into panic.
“I hope…the meeting was pleasant.” Elizabeth said, fidgeting on her chair. “Did you…discuss anything interesting?”
“He recognised me and I had a very interesting discussion with him and later your mother.” He said cryptically.
She bit her lips, seemingly wanting to ask more questions.
Miss Bingley instead jumped into the conversation. “Ah, Mrs. Bennet is such a lovely mother. Although I did not meet her this morning due to my headache, I passed the small sitting room on her way out and heard her teaching Miss Eliza how to…get a certain gentleman alone by pulling the neckline of her gown down slightly and thrusting her…bosom out to tempt him.”
“Caroline!” Bingley and Mrs. Hurst chastised their sister. It was a vulgar piece of conversation to repeat.
Elizabeth’s face turned bright red but she drew in a deep breath and retorted, “Were you eavesdropping on our conversation, Miss Bingley? What a pity the door was too thick and you did not hear it all? We were actually talking about a theatre performance.” She stopped and shook her head, “There are so many scandalous ways some women are willing to perform to ensnare a gentleman. Next, I am sure an author will write about how a woman resorts to theft in order to marry a rich gentleman.”
The Bingley siblings gasped for air. Darcy wanted to applaud Elizabeth’s wit. Seeing that she had shut up Miss Bingley, Elizabeth turned her gaze directly to him. He could see that she was livid. Her eyes seemed to convey the message: “Do not mess with me or you shall be cut up like Caroline.” But she asked sweetly, “Mr. Darcy, I am eagerly awaiting to hear about your discussion with my parents.” Too sweetly in fact, she sounded like Miss Bingley.
Darcy pondered carefully. He did not want to be slapped on the face by the lovely lady, figurative speaking, again. “Your father invited me to Longbourn and discussed how to improve the farm yield there. When your mother returned from her visit, he told her of his chest pain earlier in the day.”
“Father is not feeling well?” Anger left Elizabeth’s eyes. She asked with concern, Darcy suddenly felt guilty to pry on her caring nature.
“But he dismissed Mrs. Bennet’s request to send for the apothecary. Perhaps he just walked too much today.” He added casually.
Elizabeth nodded. She remained silent for a few minutes before asking again. “What conclusion did father and you come up with, about making improvements to the estate?”
“I did not know that Miss Eliza acts as a steward in Longbourn.” Miss Bingley said with a smirk.
Her siblings glared at her. Darcy shook his head. Perhaps Miss Bingley needs to learn her manners from head mistress Mrs. Watson too.
“Miss Bingley, as you know my father’s estate is not very large. Father does not hire a steward. He consults Uncle Phillips who is a lawyer and lives in Meryton if there is any legal matter. As I do not have any brother, I have been assisting Father with the management of the estate for some time.” She told Mr. Darcy. “I am therefore interested in hearing your discussion.”
Darcy admired her patience with Miss Bingley’s rude behaviour and her true concern with the estate. She would make a great Mistress of Pemberley.
He told her the technical details of his discussion with Mr. Bennet. The rest of the dinner passed without incident afterwards. He thought it best to leave her father to tell her about the departure of her mother and younger sister. As for his own stay in Longbourn, he would not touch the subject at all until he arrives at her doorstep.
He could also see that Bingley wanted to tell his sister about hosting Miss Mary and Miss Lydia in Netherfield. But his friend also finally decided not to do so at a dinner with guests present.
The next morning, Bingley saw with attentiveness the Bennet sisters leave. Darcy’s farewell was short and formal. The Bingley sisters did not wake up in time to see them off.
“It is so good to have the house to ourselves again!” Miss Bingley exclaimed when she sat down in the parlour nearly an hour later. She smiled with a smirk and fluttered her eye lashes at Darcy.
“Not for long.” Her brother said.
That statement startled her. “What do you mean? Who have you invited this time? I hope you have invited some of your London friends, instead of the savages of Hertfordshire.”
Bingley drew in a swift breath. “Louisa invited them to spend winter here. Perhaps she will tell you when she comes down.”
He was stalling. At that moment, Mrs. Hurst came in.
“Who have you invited? I hope not the annoying Barrymore sisters.” Miss Bingley glared at her elder sister.
“It was really more of Charles’s decision.” Mrs. Hurst was stalling too.
“I did not…” Bingley argued.
“Could you two stop shifting the blame on each other? I insist on knowing who have you invited?” Caroline demanded like she was the matron of the family.
“Miss Mary and Miss Lydia Bennet,” Mrs. Hurst finally said.
“What? Are you out of your senses? Why would you want the Bennet chits here again?” She stood up and yelled at her eldest sister.
“Miss Bingley, I would suggest you refer to the Bennet sisters with respect in future.” Darcy said furiously.
“Yes, Caroline,” Mr. Bingley added. “Mr. Bennet wanted his two daughters to improve on music, fashion and proper manners and he has honoured Louisa by requesting her guidance.”
“I forbid it.” Miss Bingley slammed her hand on a side table. “I am acting as your mistress here and I shall not allow those two trollops to pollute the shade of Netherfield. If the old goat wants to educate his daughters, tell him to engage a governess or send them to a seminary! Yes, it will do well for Miss Eliza to stay in a nunnery.”
“Mr. Bennet is not requesting us!” Mrs. Hurts raised her voice as well. “He is DEMANDING this be done or he will send the magistrate to arrest you, for stealing Miss Eliza’s garnet cross. You stupid b…!”
“Who would dare to gossip about my household? I shall fire all the servants this instant!” Miss Bingley was about to pull the bell for the housekeeper.
“I told Mr. Bennet the incident.” Darcy gritted his teeth. On the surface, Miss Bingley was always polite, elegant and refined when she visited Georgiana in London or Pemberley. Although he had previously glimpsed some of her mean treatment to people, especially servants and those from lower circles, he did not know that she had so much contempt, vulgarity, and vindictiveness in her mind. Mrs. Bennet’s behaviour was ten times better than hers. He shuddered at his fortuitous escape, of not offering for her when he returned from Ramsgate.
“Mr. Darcy!” She tried to lower her voice but her anger was so out of control that Mr. Darcy was afraid she would come over to slap him. “How could you?”
He was not afraid of her. “It was good that Mr. Bennet had invited me to stay in Longbourn for a while then, to help him with the improvement of the estate.”
“I think it is best you leave for London, Caroline, and stayed with Aunt Debra,” Bingley said with a sigh. “Darcy and I shall be busy with estate business and Louisa with her two protégés.”
With a loud stamp of her foot on the floor, Miss Bingley left the parlour with an ear-splitting slam of the door.
Fire and Cross – Chapter 4
Three days later, Mr. Darcy sent his grand carriage to Longbourn to pick up Mrs. Bennet and the younger Miss Bennets. The Mistress of Longbourn saw to the settling of Miss Mary and Miss Lydia in Netherfield, before going on her way with Miss Catherine to the school in Kent.
Darcy could guess from Mrs. Bennet’s parting enthusiasm that she was certain that Bingley and himself would offer for her two eldest daughters upon her return.
She hinted that the use of his grand carriage and the interest of Mr. Bingley’s sister in improving her young daughters were both endearing ways in courting Elizabeth and Jane. It was unfortunate she did not get to meet Miss Bingley as the latter was once again abed with a headache.
On arriving at Longbourn later in the day, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy were received by a quietly happy Mr. Bennet, a blushing Miss Bennet and a subdued Miss Elizabeth. Dinner was a comfortable success with all five participants taking part in intelligent conversation. Mr. Bingley stayed until very late.
Darcy did not sleep well that night. He was not used to less than perfect accommodation. But more importantly, the proximity of Miss Elizabeth was creating havocs in his mind. He could hear hushed voices and the sound of footsteps on the floor boards across the corridor. Images of the lovely lady in night gown and sleeping sweetly with hair down her shoulders invaded his mind. The sight of her stockings, stays and corsets in Netherfield resurfaced.
The next morning, he rose to greet a strangely quiet Miss Elizabeth.
As they were at breakfast, Mr. Bennet told his eldest daughter, “I hope, my dear, that you have ordered a good dinner today, because I have reason to expect an addition to our family party.”
Miss Bennet’s face turned bright red. Was Bingley expected for dinner again, Darcy thought?
“I have not, Papa. But I shall do so immediately. Who are we expecting?” Miss Bennet asked.
“It is a person whom I never saw in the whole course of my life.”
Such a revelation raised general curiosity. Miss Elizabeth urged her father to continue.
“It is from my cousin, Mr. Collins, who, when I am dead, may turn you all out of this house as soon as he pleases.”
Both ladies gasped but determined to be civil. They asked for more information about this stranger. Mr. Bennet read out loud his cousin’s letter. Darcy was astonished to learn that Mr. Collins was his Aunt Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s clergyman. From his over flowery letter, Darcy could see why his aunt appointed such a person. Mr. Collins would defer to the ladyship for every decision.
Equally alarming was the clergyman’s indication of offering an olive branch, to breach the disagreement between his family and Mr. Bennet’s.
“At four o’clock, therefore, we may expect this peace-making gentleman,” said Mr. Bennet, as he folded up the letter. “He seems to be a most conscientious and polite young man who would offer for one of you and relieve my constant worrying about the entail. Mr. Darcy, who do you think would suit Mr. Collins better?”
Both ladies turned flustered with alarm. They were both intelligent enough to judge from the content of the letter that Mr. Collins was an oddity.
“I hope we can work out some methods to improve Longbourn’s income, sir.” Darcy said. “Then you would not need to worry about your daughters’ future too much.”
Mr. Bennet rubbed his chest with his right hand and replied, “It may take some years to save enough to give each of them a decent dowry. But if Mr. Collins is willing, I do not object his offering for my girls. Lizzy, I think you are the bravest of all of your sisters. What say you to taking him on?”
Elizabeth gritted her teeth. Darcy sensed that the older gentleman was trying to push her daughter to see him as a more sensible alternative. But he did not appreciate the fact that she was being embarrassed during the course.
“Should you not leave the decision after you meet the gentleman, sir?” Darcy said. “And I must impart an intelligence as well. Lady Catherine de Bourgh is my aunt.”
The Bennets expressed astonishment to such coincidence. “Capital, Darcy! I hope you do not object to lowering your connection, to staying in the same house as your aunt’s pastor.”
It was now Darcy’s turn to get flustered. He did not appreciate Mr. Bennet’s sarcastic words, especially in front of Miss Elizabeth. The lady looked at him with an apologetic eye. That lifted his spirit. It was the first time she looked at him with a caring expression. He could not help himself and gave her a smile. When he turned to reply to the older gentleman, he saw Mr Bennet wink. Perhaps he did it on purpose!
“Your home is very comfortable, sir. Perhaps we should ride out to talk to your tenants about the fallow and orangeries.” Darcy said.
“Yes, well I want to discuss with Jane about tonight’s dinner and arrangement for my cousin’s stay. Lizzy, you take Mr. Darcy out. You know all the tenants anyway. He will tell you how his grand scheme works. You can use our curricle, Mr. Darcy. Yours will be too big for the narrow lanes here. And Lizzy is no horsewoman. Jane, come with me!” Mr. Bennet left for his study quickly with those parting words.
Mr. Darcy could see that Miss Elizabeth was deep in thought now. He coughed and asked for her attention. She nodded and went to get her pelisse and bonnet.
He dismissed the servant and held it out for her. When he pulled it up to her shoulders, he remembered his thoughts last night, of her sleeping with her hair down. Feeling the blood heating up in his body, he let out a big sigh of relief when it was done. He could see the white skin of her neck trembled. There would be no more gentlemanly act of holding up her bonnet in future. He turned to grab the great coat from his valet quickly, buttoned it up and walked ahead.
By the time he settled himself by the other side of Mr. Bennet’s curricle, he had cooled down enough to speak to the lady when she finally caught up to him.
“Miss Bennet, where should we start?” He asked.
She was breathless and a rosy pink adorned her face. He thought he should leave her to run after him more often.
“The tenants have just completed the harvest at Michaelmas. They should be preparing to rest for the winter. Do you need to talk to all of them?”
“I think only a few of the more progressive ones will be best. And they should have more than just one man in the household because if they accept this new venture, they will need to work on the green house this winter and grow flowers throughout the year.”
“We should start with the Jones family on the west of the estate then.” She said and was about to climb up into the curricle when he put his hand out to help her up.
She took it with grace. When he had first stepped into the curricle, he understood why Mr. Bennet wanted him to use his. It was the smallest curricle he had ever ridden in. He could feel the lady’s shoulder, arm and thigh touching and arousing every inch of his body.
When he took hold of the reins and urged the horses into a slow pace, he could feel her bosom, hip and leg rubbing him on the side. Luckily they both had their thicker outer cloaks on for he would surely disgrace himself.
He did not understand why this country lass could incite such a reaction in him. She was not as handsome as her elder sister and not as pretty as many ladies of the ton.
He stayed quiet throughout the journey, taking her direction and pondering her wit and character.
Luckily the lady took the hint.
“Mr. Darcy, it seems you have brought on many changes in my family.” She said.
“That cannot be possible if your father is unwilling.”
“That is what I find amazing. Not only is my father…who tends to be on the…liberal side with his management is taking a keen interest in improving the estate, my mother is also excited about launching my younger sisters in London. I wonder what you have told my parents during the day you met with my Father.”
“Did your father not explain it to you?”
“He seemed to be very busy suddenly. Or he is avoiding me. Did you tell my mother about the garnet cross?”
“No.”
“But you told my Father?”
Mr. Darcy nodded.
“Even about your father’s pledge?”
“That was the truth. I did not want to hide anything from him. As you know, he saved my life.”
“And you told him I rejected you?”
“The truth again. Though I admitted it was more my fault.”
“Can you be less than candid?” She hissed.
“That is not my nature.”
“My father has been behaving very strangely these few days. I fear he is trying to force me to accept you!”
“I do not think so. You are not of age. If he is doing that, he can easily demand that you do as he said. He told me he regrets indulging Mrs. Bennet, after his close brush with life and death at that horrific fire at Bromley Inn. Improving the estate and educating your siblings are his way of making amends. He wants to do the right things for his family. My appearance in Hertfordshire just happened to prompt him into action.”
“You will not try to change my mind about our future?” She raised her brows sceptically.
“You have expressed your opinion very decidedly a few days ago. I would not offer for you, unless…” He turned to gaze at her. “unless you ask of me.”
She opened her mouth, possibly wanting to confirm she would never beg him to court her. But several lads ran up to the curricle. They greeted her warmly. They were the Jones.
The Jones family was a happy lot. The father and his three eldest sons welcomed Miss Elizabeth. After she introduced Mr. Darcy to the tenants, he asked them about their crops, their routine and their harvest.
“I was talking to Mr. Bennet about some of the new farm methods I have tried in Derbyshire. I think as Longbourn is relatively near to London, you can do better with growing flowers and fruit. A green house will ensure you can grow them even in the winter.”
“We have often discussed planting more crops to harvest.” Mr. Jones said. “But new seeds are costly and we don’t know any market or tradesmen to sell our crops. And we certainly know nothing of green houses.”
“It is a building with glass and with the temperature is kept warm throughout the year. It can be hard work to keep vigilant of the heat throughout the day. But the reward is huge. Mr. Bennet said he would provide the seedlings and glass materials to build as a loan. As for the market, I have sent an express about this to my steward. He will be able to find some people who would want to buy your crop.”
As he continued to discuss the merit and issue of building a green house with the Jones menfolks, he could glimpse the surprised expression on Elizabeth’s face.
He was happy to show her his knowledgeable and persuasive side. He felt more at ease talking about farming than the trivial polite dull conversations required by those of the ton or upper circles of London society.
After almost an hour of discussion, the Jones men were eager to participate in the new venture. Miss Elizabeth would inform her father and uncle to draft the loan agreement. Her face again showed a degree of bewilderment when Mr. Darcy said he would get two of his men who were familiar with constructing the green house to come help the Jones family.
Before the gentleman and the lady took their leave, Mrs Jones invited them to have some tea in their house. When Grandmother Jones learned about the new development, she could not help commenting. “Sir, I’m so happy you’re helping Miss Lizzy. She is a strong girl but it’s not right for her to worry about all of us all the time.”
“I am happy to be of help to the Bennets.” Mr. Darcy said.
“Grandma Jones, I do not worry about you at all.” Elizabeth said. “You rule your house like a queen.”
“Nonsense, I am just an old girl with more white hair. Sir, I have known Miss Lizzy all my life. She is the cleverest one of her sisters. Don’t be alarmed by her sharp tongue.”
He smiled and said, “Miss Bennet’s words maybe sharp but she is often correct in her opinion.”
“Ah, so you’ve already received Miss Lizzy’s pointed view! That’s good. For a girl won’t set you right if she’s not interested in your welfare.” The elderly lady’s comment put a shade of red on Elizabeth’s face.
Could that be true? Mr. Darcy thought.
Mrs. Jones continued, “And you will do well with our Lizzy. She has the widest hips of all her sisters. She would be able give you many healthy babes.”
“I…think…we should be on our way.” He stammered, his face turned all red.
When Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy were squeezed into the curricle again, he could not avoid feeling her hip. He vowed to think of Grandmother Jones’s words no more.
The lady directed him to take another route along the river back to Longbourn. About half an hour into the journey, the curricle was stuck by mud on a slightly downward slope.
Mr. Darcy jumped down to push the curricle from behind.
“You must urge the horses forward gently, Miss Bennet.” He said.
She nodded and used the whip with a light hand. Her first attempt did not have any result.
He took off his greatcoat and pushed again with full force while she whipped the horses slightly harder. Suddenly the horses startled and dashed forward.
Mr. Darcy was caught off guard, falling forward and then landing face down on the mud.
“Mr. Darcy, are you hurt?” Elizabeth reined in the horses, got off the curricle and ran back to his side immediately. She knelt down to help him up.
Except for the mud all over the front of his body and part of his jaw, he was uninjured. “I am fine. But your dress is deep in mud,” he added, seeing that the hem and the knee areas of her dress were smeared by mud as she helped him stand up.
“It is of no consequence. Let us…” She turned and was about to ask him to get back to the curricle when she saw the horses had taken off without their passengers. “Oh, we have lost our curricle.”
“We are not far from Longbourn?” He asked, feeling the indignity of his muddy appearance in front of his admirer.
“No, perhaps a mile or two. But the river is not far, do you want to wash off a bit of the mud first?”
Mr. Darcy could not agree more, not wanting to enter her home in such a mess. They walked down to the river. He held out his hand to assist her when required. Every time their gloved hands touched and their eyes met, he felt his heart raced. He was also encouraged by the shade of pink on Elizabeth’s face. He told himself it was his attentive presence, rather than the exercise that put a blush on her.
When they reached the river, he begged for her forgiveness as he took off his gloves, cravat, coat and waist coat. Using his cravat dampened with water, he removed the mud as best he could. He was also busy glancing at Elizabeth. She had used a handkerchief to wash the area of the dress around her knees but did not bother to tackle the mud around the hem.
Once that was done, he rolled up his damp clothing and helped her up the river bank again. Mr. Darcy felt the heat of her gaze on the skin of his neck from time to time as the cravat was not fit for wearing again. She had also taken off her gloves when she washed her dress so their hands this time touched skin to skin. He could not help but gently rub her soft palm. He could see that she shivered at his ministration. The blossom on her face had spread down her neck and chest.
Sensing that she was too busy fighting her feelings rather than protesting, he did not let her hand go when they reached level ground and continued to hold her hand as they walked back to Longbourn.
Breathing in the sweet lavender scent from her body, he was happy with the progress he made today. He hoped Elizabeth would soon forget about his inconsiderate proposal the other day and give him another chance to win her heart.
“How…did you learn about this green house method?” She broke the silence.
“Using a green house to grow crops can be traced back to Roman times. It became more organised in France and Italy a few years ago. My father wanted to carry them out in Pemberley but he died before he could do that. I learned more about it from books and talking with other landlords who were successful with this method.”
“Was it very difficult for you…when your father died?”
He nodded. For the past five years, he had not talked to anyone about the anger, resentment and sadness of his father’s passing. He always pretended to be strong. It seemed fitting that Elizabeth was the one who asked him about it.
“The responsibility I could handle but I still miss him a lot.” Emotion emerged in his chest. “And I fear I have failed my sister.”
She looked at him with questioning eyes but he could not go on to recount his failure as a brother. He turned his head away from her intense gaze hoping to hide his emotion. To his surprise, she stopped and gave him a quick comforting hug.
His heart warmed by her action. He embraced her tightly for a moment, lowered his mouth to kiss her hair but released her immediately afterwards, not wanting to take advantage of her caring gesture.
They walked on in silence again, this time side by side, without holding hands. When they entered Longbourn, they headed for the back garden as they did not want to enter the front door with mud.
To their surprise, Mr. Bennet was out and about with another man.
“Ah, what has happened to you two? Did you decide to frolic in water and mud, together?”
The young couple was embarrassed. But before they could reply, the stranger said, “If my distinguished patron the Right Honourable Lady Catherine de Bourgh was here, she would perform the respectful duty of instructing people not to disregard propriety. The wild behaviour of young people today is alarming, she would say. She would not allow her daughter to ramble in the countryside with a young man without chaperone. Such endeavour would only encourage young people to take the liberty of committing licentious acts.” The man shook his head as Elizabeth tried to pull the lapels of her pelisse together to conceal her dress, which was made damp by Mr. Darcy during their embrace. “Frolicking in water, most improperly attired, is not to be condoned.”
Mr. Darcy stood up in his full height and bowed to Mr. Bennet. “Sir, I am sorry for the state of my attire. The curricle was stuck by mud. I fell onto the ground while trying to dislodge it. Miss Elizabeth was splattered when she tried to help me. We went to the river to clean up a bit.”
“I know some misfortune must have beheld you two when Nelly and Mimi returned without their occupants. But you must pardon me and let me introduce to you my cousin, Mr. William Collins. He arrived early. Cousin, this is my second daughter Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy of Pemberley.”
“Mr….Darcy… you say?” The clergyman’s tongue seemed to have been caught between his teeth. He continued to bow deeply and stuttered. “I…did not know that the….esteemed nephew of Lady Catherine de Bourgh is in the neighbourhood.”
Darcy gave Mr. Collins a short nod. He saw Elizabeth’s lips curled up with a teasing smile. “Sir,” He turned to tell Mr. Bennet, “Excuse us. We had better go in from the back to clean up.”
“Yes, we do not want our DIRT to distress my cousin,” Elizabeth added sweetly. She put her hand on Mr. Darcy’s arm and walked with him around her cousin who was still bowing to Darcy.
Fire and Cross – Chapter 5
When Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth entered the kitchen area, they were greeted with mild disapproval. The servants were in the middle of preparing dinner and did not like the idea of arranging a bath for the wayward pair.
But there was no avoiding the task. Miss Lizzy and her beau were not fit to be seen. Speculation also spread among the servants with knowing glances and suppressed giggles were exchanged.
Being less muddy of the two, Elizabeth was to go upstairs after she had taken off her boots. A pitcher of water would be brought up for her to clean up in her room.
While a maid helped take off her shoes, Darcy caught a glimpse of Elizabeth’s feet in stockings. He was enchanted by how tiny her feet were. His hands looked to be larger than them.
His errant thoughts were interrupted by his valet who came down to help him bathe. When Winston discussed with Longbourn’s servants about setting up the bath, Darcy saw Elizabeth glancing at him from time to time.
She was surprisingly slow in doing what she was doing and hanging around in the kitchen, Darcy pondered.
Only when the water was prepared in the laundry room and he was asked to leave the kitchen did the lady ascend to her room in haste.
Behind the laundry sheets, Mr. Darcy took off all his clothes, save for a pair of trousers.
He was relieved that the servants were busy in the kitchen and none of them dared to venture into the room. With the help of his valet, he washed away the mud and thought about the events of the day. The curricle ride was intimate. Grandmother Jones’s comment made them felt awkward. Falling into the mud was embarrassing but Elizabeth’s compassionate embrace gave him hope. The most annoying happenstance was the appearance of Lady Catherine’s clergyman. Mr. Collins was a silly and exasperating man.
With the last unpleasant thought, he rose from the bath tub and wrapped himself in a robe made ready by his valet. As he emerged from behind the sheets, he bumped right into a soft form near the door of the laundry room.
“Ouch!”
“I beg your pardon!”
It was Elizabeth. Her curly mane was down on her shoulders and the shawl that covered them dropped onto the floor.
They both bent down to retrieve it. His eyes caught the low neckline of her gown while he felt her gaze onto his bare chest which was not covered by the robe. He was frozen in his position while heat rushed down his body.
Luckily the movement of his valet startled him. He grabbed the shawl and wrapped it around her shoulders.
“I…came down…to find my cor…,” Elizabeth stammered.
“I…just finished…the bath,” His eyes focussed on her bewitching eyes, framed by thick chocolate curls. “I shall…go upstairs to dress.”
She curtsied and stepped aside for him to past. But her eyes still seemed to burn a hole in his chest.
Darting a glance at his valet who pretended to be busy with his chores, Darcy lowered his head and whispered into her ears, “Did you come down to peep at me? I hope you take some pleasure in it.” He was happy to hear her gasp for air and exclaim “Insufferable men!” under her breath.
“Men?” He frowned. “Who else has irked you?”
She glanced at his valet. Darcy signalled for Winston to leave which the latter did quietly.
“Did Mr. Collins do something inappropriate?” He held her arms and his tone was grave.
She struggled from his hold and blurted out. “What is Miss Anne de Bourgh to you?”
“Ah I see. Mr. Collins has been spreading lies.” He paced around.
“So you are not engaged to her?”
“No, though my aunt Lady Catherine always wished it.” He stopped in front of her, agitated. “Did you not trust my integrity and honour? Have I not told you my father’s wish? Did I not ask you to marry me?”
“But Mr. Collins…”
“Yes, what exactly did he say?”
“He said that you have been engaged to Miss de Bourgh since your birth and you visit her every year, waiting for her health to recover. And that whatever…feeling you had for me, you are probably acting like any young men bewitched by the…arts and allurements from young maidens.”
“He accused me of trifling with young women and you being of loose morals!”
“I did rebuke him most fervently about myself.”
“But you believed what he said of my character?”
“I did not,” She stamped her feet in annoyance. “But I did not know your relationship with Miss de Bourgh.”
He stepped forward and held her arms again. Gazing at her eyes, he said slowly, “Anne is only a cousin to me. You, however, mean a lot more to me…if you would allow it.” Then he lowered his head and kissed her.
It was not a brotherly kiss. It was fast and fierce. He tasted the soft and hot lips. Sucking her wetness, he stopped the kiss as abruptly as he had started.
Not trusting himself, he dashed out of the laundry room, leaving her with mouth hanging open and another murmur of “Insufferable man!”
As he dressed with care for dinner once again, Darcy was both furious and anxious. He was angry with his aunt’s meddling parson and anxious about Elizabeth’s response to his transgression.
When he arrived at the dinner room, he was unhappy with the seating arrangement. Mr. Collins was seated beside Elizabeth. He was seated by Miss Bennet’s side, right across the clergyman.
Mr. Bennet had a smirk on his face. Darcy shook his head. He had difficulty understanding the elderly gentleman’s tactic.
Most of the dinner was filled with the monologue of Mr. Collins. He praised the size of the chimneys in Rosings, the large number of windows and how considerate Lady Catherine was to all her tenants. Miss Bennet was the only person who responded to his speech occasionally, while the other three ate in silence.
When they almost reached the end of the meal, Mr. Collins repeated to Mr. Darcy how well Lady Catherine and Anne were when he left Rosings, Darcy decided to put the clergyman in his place.
“Thank you for relating the news, Mr. Collins. I heard you appeared to be privileged to some other news about myself as well.” Darcy said.
“Your most esteemed Mr. Darcy, what kind of news are you referring to?”
“About my cousin Anne and myself.”
“Oh…” Mr. Collins’s hand stopped in the middle of the table, not continuing on to reach out for the wine glass.
“Yes, Mr. Collins told Lizzy and I that you were engaged to Miss de Bourgh,” Mr. Bennet immediately added, “How thoughtless of me not to congratulate you, Fitzwilliam.”
Miss Bennet gasped and darted a concerned look at her sister while Mr. Collins retracted his hand and pulled out a handkerchief to wipe his brow. “Yes, your most honourable Mr. Darcy…”
“I am afraid Mr. Bennet, Mr. Collins is mistaken. Anne and I are not engaged.”
“But my most respectable Fitzwilliam,” Mr. Bennet imitated his cousin, “Mr. Collins told us your most admirable Lady Catherine de Bourgh told him of the engagement. The agreement was reached with your gracious mother Lady Anne and had been in place from the time you were in the cradle. Mr. Collins even told me I should not take any of your…intentions about my daughters seriously.”
Darcy put down the cutlery heavily and announced, “Mr. Bennet, it is unfortunate that my integrity has been questioned. I shall examine the source of slanders carefully. Perhaps I should ask the Archbishop who is a personal friend for guidance in this matter.”
Mr. Collins dropped the fork with a loud cling. He then rose and bowed deeply. “I am not…feeling well, my dear cousins. Pray excuse me…I must retire now.” He then fled the room in haste.
As Miss Bennet looked at the retreating form with concern, Elizabeth and her father burst out laughing.
“So Mr. Collins was in error?” Miss Bennet turned to look at Mr. Darcy.
“Yes, I am not engaged to Miss de Bourgh and I am always honourable in my… intentions,” His eyes stared at Elizabeth as he replied. The lady stopped laughing and flustered.
“Mr. Bingley invited us to dine with them tomorrow. Perhaps Mary would enjoy discussing Fordyce’s Sermons with Mr. Collins,” Mr. Bennet said. “Fitzwilliam, you may stay to entertain my girls. I think I ate too much. I shall retire now.”
The occupants in the room rose and Elizabeth said with concern, “Papa, you have complained about not feeling well these past days. Should you not send for the apothecary?”
“It is only a minor irritation,” Mr. Bennet waved his hand in dismissal.
Elizabeth turned to look at Mr. Darcy and bid him to help.
“Mr. Bennet, it is better to be on the safe side. I can ride out and fetch the doctor now.” He said.
“You will get lost in our countryside. Tomorrow morning will be fine. Take Lizzy with you. She can show you where Doctor Smith lives.” The elderly gentleman then left the room.
When the occupants moved to the sitting room, Miss Bennet expressed her concerns. “Papa has not been well lately?”
“I first heard of it from Mr. Darcy on the last day of our stay in Netherfield,” Elizabeth said.
“He told your mother he had chest pain,” Darcy explained.
“And tonight the food did not seem to agree with him,” Jane murmured. “I hope he is not worried about all the changes that have happened in the household and the estate lately.”
“Mr. Darcy, I meant to ask you earlier, can we really afford the glass house for the Jones family?” Elizabeth said.
“I have promised to loan Longbourn some capital for the new venture.”
Elizabeth’s face turned crimson. She opened her mouth to speak but clamped it shut suddenly.
“We are indebted to you,” Jane said and looked at her sister with concern.
“Please do not be uneasy, Miss Bennet. Mr. Bennet saved my life during the fire at Bromley. I would be most happy to assist him in ways that would ease his mind about the estate,” He replied and focussed his eyes on Elizabeth, “Regardless of the outcome of other matters.”
Miss Bennet seemed to be mollified by this reply. She rose, took up the sewing basket and sat herself in a chair further away from the other two.
Elizabeth fidgeted on the chaise. Darcy moved closer to her and whispered, “I want to apologise for my behaviour in the laundry room.”
“You promised you would not change my mind,” she replied huskily, her eyes glanced at his lips before turning away.
“Did my kiss change your mind?”
“No…yes…no…You behaved ungentlemanly to steal a kiss from me.”
“But you peeped at me when I bathed.”
“I did not! I came down to the laundry room to collect my corset,” Amid such an innocent outburst, the scarlet spread from her face to her chest.
“Your maid was busy?” His eyes lowered to assess that piece of garment. “I shall thank her for sending you my way.”
“Impossible man!”
He moved closer to her on the chaise, like they had been in the tiny curricle. “I hope you will change your mind, on your own.” He breathed in the words to her ears. “…soon.”
Suppressing the urge to bite her adorable earlobe, he rose, bowed to the ladies and bid them good night.
***
The next morning, Mr. Darcy woke up in an embarrassing state. He just had the most erotic dream in his life. Not even in his teenage years did he have such a vivid and detailed happenstance.
In his dream, he wandered around Pemberley in search of someone from dawn till dark. After going through all the rooms with frustration, he finally came to the pond and found the most gorgeous woman standing there.
When she turned around, with the help of the setting sun, he could see that it was Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
She had her curly chocolate coloured hair down. Her voluptuous body was only sheathed in an almost transparent corset. He could see the dark cherry colour of her areolas and the wild bush at the apex of her thighs through the white fabric.
She arched her eyebrow and gave him a teasing smile, before trying to untie the garment.
Darcy swallowed hard and stood there with anticipation. He could feel an intense arousal coming on.
One minute, he waited. Two minutes, then three.
Her hands were most ineffective. She continued to smile and gazed at him.
Impatient for the wait, Darcy stepped towards her and offered to help her untie the corset. But then she suddenly started running away from him, along the border of the pond.
She was laughing, stopping and splashing water to him.
With a loud howl which did not give any sound in the dream, Darcy gave chase. But she was like a butterfly, flying away from his grasp the moment he could smell the scent of her skin. By now, she was wet through and through. The white fabric plastered on her body, outlining every valley and luscious curve.
His aroused body was heightened to an unbearable state and hindered his pursuit.
On and on, he ran after her awkwardly, from the pond, to the formal garden and into the house.
From the ballroom to the library, finally Darcy found Elizabeth in the dark laundry room. Behind sheets of laundry, with the dim waving light from candles, she started untying the corset and taking off the wet garment with deliberate slowness.
He caught his breathe and parted the sheets. His eyes burnt into her skin as he savoured her slowly undressing.
When the top of her corset dropped down, she pulled her long hair to the front and covered one tempting nipple. But the twin peak was left standing proud and hard.
Then Elizabeth bent forward and wiggled the garment down her wide hips. Darcy’s breathing became fast and shallow. His eyes followed the path of the white fabric.
Slowly, the adorable navel was revealed. Then, the thick curly dark bush covering her most private part was on display.
His gaze moved downward, following the drop of her garment, along her round buttocks.
He focussed on her petite toes for a moment but she turned around, hands on the edge of the bath tub and tried to climb into it.
With lightning speed, he stood behind her, preventing her movement. Then he wrapped one hand around her tiny waist and used the other hand to cup her creamy mound.
She squirmed and murmured some silent words. Bending her forward with his body, he started squeezing and pinching her nipple while undoing his breeches.
Shaking and trembling, she began to grind her buttocks against his body. Once his thick shaft was freed, he grabbed her inner thighs, parted her legs and stood between them.
He thought it was impossible to feel in a dream. But he could feel the actual tingling and sensation of sheathing his hard rod into her warmth. She was tight and burning. With a forceful thrust, he pounded into her hilt.
The heat, sweat and friction bombarded his muscles. His manhood was squeezed so hard that he thought he would stop breathing soon.
He could feel that he had pushed her so high up that he had taken her feet off the ground. She was leaning her weight with her hands on the edge of bath tub and his hands on her hips.
Elizabeth turned her head and mouthed the word “ride on”. Darcy obliged with eagerness. With legs firmly on the ground, he pounded, thrust and impaled into her welcoming core, on and on, again and again.
Minute by minute, she shook and rode with him. It seemed like hours had passed before he woke up from his frantic shoving and experienced the most mind blowing climax. When he opened his eyes, he found himself alone inside the guest chamber of Longbourn, with a drenched pillow clasped between his legs.
Stunned by such a graphic dream and the task of mending the ruined pillow, Darcy entered the morning parlour later than usual.
Mr. Bennet was reading his paper, looking well and normal. Miss Bennet was fixing a ribbon. Mr. Collins was still abed, not feeling well.
After Darcy enquired after every one, Elizabeth told him that she had already asked a servant to bring the doctor.
Mr. Bennet pitied him for losing an opportunity of driving out this morning.
Darcy bore it with good grace. He sat down at the far end of the room but could not seem to drag his eyes from the curve of Elizabeth’s neck as she paced around the room, impatient for Dr. Smith to arrive.
His gaze followed her movement. He had developed a sudden fascination of her buttocks, after remembering smacking into them so many times, in his dream. ‘Do not think about the dream!’ He warned himself. ‘You have a long way to win her affection.’
Chapter 6
Dr. Smith arrived soon afterwards and took the Master of Longbourn to his room. Much to the relief of his daughters, Mr. Bennet was found to be well. The doctor was asked to check up on Mr. Collins. But the latter came down at that instant and dismissed the service of the doctor.
He excused himself, not looking at any one in the room, and said he had a letter to post instead.
“You can leave it for Hill to do that for you,” Mr. Bennet offered.
“The morning air in Hertfordshire appears to be quite good, though not as fresh as that of Rosings. I think I shall walk to your little village … ah Meryton that is and post this important letter myself,” he bowed to Mr. Bennet.
“Ah, but you do not know our roads. I would not want you lost. Lizzy, pray take Mr. Collins to Meryton.” Mr. Bennet said.
The clergyman’s face lit up on this offer and agreed. Elizabeth rose from her seat reluctantly. Mr. Collins did not protest about the possible problem of rambling in the countryside alone with a young lady, Mr. Darcy thought. He debated how to ask Mr. Bennet for permission to join in.
A few minutes after the pair left the parlour, Mr. Bennet relieved his suffering. “Fitzwilliam, you should go too. Have a look at the roads around Meryton and see if they are good for winter transport of fruit and flowers.”
Mr. Darcy jumped up and gave the elderly gentleman a nod and a grin.
It did not take long for Darcy to catch up with Mr. Collins and Elizabeth. Mr. Collins stopped under a tree, said he had some stones in his shoes and bid the other two to continue.
“Oh, you have business in Meryton too?” Elizabeth asked him. He told her what her father said.
“I think you have scared my cousin off,” She turned her head and signalled Mr. Darcy to look back.
Mr. Collins was following them, but at a safe distance, with no intention of catching up.
“That is good!” He said with a raise of chin. “I prefer not to listen to his flowery speech about my aunt and cousin.”
“You are being condescending and arrogant again!” She said with a scowl on her face.
Darcy’s face turned ashen. How could he forget her censure? “I am sorry for my boorish behaviour. My dearest Elizabeth, I shall look to you for guidance. How should I behave in front of such an oddity?”
He was happy to put a scarlet flush on her face with his endearment. She rolled her eyes with an expression of exasperation and replied, “Flattery! Just listen to the first and last bits of Mr. Collins speech will do.”
“It seems I have to learn about pretence from you.”
“It is called gentlemanlike manner.”
“And what do you do in the middle?” He asked.
“Perhaps think about the beautiful weather, the fresh air or one of Shakespeare’s sonnets.”
“I shall think about a certain young lady then when Mr. Collins embarks on his monologue.”
Elizabeth blushed again. “Flattery!”
“I am only talking about my sister.” Mr. Darcy smiled.
She stamped her feet and picked up her pace. He caught up with her easily, as his legs were rather long. But the pastor had fallen quite far behind.
They almost reached Meryton when Elizabeth stumbled on a rock by a tall oak tree.
Luckily Darcy was right besides her and prevented her fall. He had his hands around her waist and pressed her against him to steady her. The closeness of her shoulders and hips sent a shock wave down his body. Her sweet scent evoked memory of the dream in his mind. He gazed at her lips and drew in a deep breath.
Panting hard, she grabbed his hand and licked her lips. He groaned out loud at her gesture and lowered his head. Before he could kiss her ardently, she turned her head away.
Letting her free, he held his hand behind his back and twisted the ring on his finger. “A carriage is coming,” She murmured.
He sighed with relief. She turned away not because she did not welcome his ardency. But he blamed himself for lacking control, for nearly kissing her on a public road.
Once the carriage past, they continued in slower pace. Mr. Collins had caught up, but still walking a few yards from them.
When they reached Meryton, Darcy looked around with interest. It was slightly larger than Lambton, a little town near Pemberley. There were shops for ribbons, food, books and other suppliers. Many people were out and about and Elizabeth seemed to know many of them. They greeted her from afar with curious eyes but did not approach for an introduction.
She returned their greetings from afar with cheerfulness and politeness. Once she arrived at the shop for Mr. Collins to post his letter, she waited with Mr. Darcy for her cousin. The clergyman entered the shop quickly and looked over his shoulders.
Darcy had a suspicion that Mr. Collins did not want Elizabeth and him to enter the shop. That suited Darcy fine. He would rather talk to his beloved.
Not a few moments later, two horses drew up near them.
“Darce! It is good to see you. Bingley is taking me to visit you at Longbourn.”
Darcy turned around and saw his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Bingley dismounting.
“I did not know that you were coming too.” He shook hands with his cousin.
“Susan was talking about this secret mission for you and I have some leave. Of course I could not stay away.” Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed.
“Yes, he just showed up with Lady Susan yesterday evening and demanded the best port and room from me.” Bingley joined in. “But we should not forget our manners. Miss Bennet, how are you today?”
“I am well.” Elizabeth said. “And you?”
“Fine! Excellent!” Bingley smiled.
“This is my cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam,” Mr. Darcy made the introduction. “Mrs. Hurst has invited his eldest sister Lady Susan to stay in Netherfield for the winter.”
“And I tagged along,” The Colonel said. “I am delighted to make your acquaintance, Miss Bennet. Bingley has not exaggerated. Your beauty rivals that of an angel!”
“Richard!” Bingley chastised his guest with red face while Darcy with a scowl.
Elizabeth smiled. “I see you possess the same flattery skill as your cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam. But the angel in Longbourn is my eldest sister.”
“Darcy flirting with young ladies? That is unheard of.” Colonel Fitzwilliam said. “Do you serve him a special wine called ‘Charming’ in Longbourn?”
The easy banter was suspended by Mr. Collins who came out of the shop with another gentleman.
“Cousin Elizabeth…” Mr. Collins’s greetings were interrupted by a sudden pandemonium.
Darcy looked at the gentleman standing by Mr. Collins and saw red.
“Wickham!” He hissed.
“You bloody scoundrel!” Colonel Fitzwilliam yelled and then lunged at Wickham. Darcy wrapped his arm around Elizabeth and pulled her away from the mayhem.
Wickham ducked from the Colonel and threw a punch at his stomach, making him double over. Bingley stepped forward, trying to help the Colonel up when Wickham turned on him.
Bingley twisted his body to avoid Wickham’s fist and gave him a right hook in return. Wickham avoided the knock by pushing Collins in front of him.
Unable to stop the assault, Bingley slammed Collins’s nose with a powerful strike and knocked the clergyman to the ground.
Colonel Fitzwilliam recovered and slapped the distracted Wickham, his ring made a cut on Wickham’s face. When the Colonel tried to continue the punch, Darcy pulled him back. Wickham took this opportunity to steal away from the scene.
While Darcy was trying to calm his cousin, Elizabeth and Bingley crouched down by Mr. Collins.
“How is he?” Darcy asked Elizabeth when the Colonel had calmed down.
“He is unconscious,” she said. “We need a carriage to bring him back to Longbourn and a doctor to see to him.”
“I am sorry, Miss Bennet. I harmed your cousin accidentally.” Bingley begged for forgiveness.
“It is not your fault. It was that Wickham who used Mr. Collins as a shield.”
“Let me get the carriage and take him to Netherfield instead,” Bingley said, “I injured him and would not let Miss Bennet and yourself be burdened with the task of taking care of the patient.”
Elizabeth turned to look at Darcy. He agreed with Bingley and bid the lady to consent. Netherfield had more servants and could take better care of Mr. Collins but Darcy did not explain this in detail to the lady.
Bingley went to get a carriage and the doctor. Colonel Fitzwilliam apologised to Elizabeth profusely for starting the brawl but did not explain about his past history with Wickham.
The party left for Netherfield in a carriage amid hushed voices of Meryton locals and left Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth with the two horses. Darcy and Elizabeth would take them back to Longbourn and return them tonight during dinner. Clothes for Mr. Collins would be sent earlier.
***
As Darcy walked along side Elizabeth to return to Longbourn, his mind was in turmoil. He had not seen Wickham since that fateful day in Ramsgate. Why did he appear here in Meryton?
“Mr. Darcy, who is this Mr. Wickham?” Elizabeth’s question broke his thoughts.
“He is nobody.” He dismissed the question quickly, like any man who did not want to worry his loved ones.
“A nobody who made you hiss disapprovingly? And it would appear he is a scoundrel who caused your cousin to hit him without any outward provocation on this Wickham’s part?” Her eyes flared with fire and anger.
He looked away, not understanding her anger and compassion.
“I do not want a marriage like my parents, where life is not shared but merely coexisting,” she said, “I would like to have a marriage of equal partnership sharing not only happy circumstances but even painful ones with my husband.”
Darcy hesitated for a moment, but then realized he must heed her words, thus he began, “George Wickham was my father’s godson,” the words tumbled out with intense vehemence, “who squandered every opportunity my family gave him to succeed by repaying us with disrespect and deceit.”
“Your father raised him?”
“He was the son of my father’s steward. My father sent him to Cambridge after his own father died.”
“He enrolled in the school of debauchery instead of uprightness?”
“His indulgence in wickedness occurred well before he attended Cambridge. We played together as boys and I noticed his transformation. I regretted not exposing his dissolute manner to my father earlier.”
“And why did you not?” Elizabeth asked softly.
“Mother died not long before and I could see the sadness and dejection in my father’s eyes. I did not know how to comfort him and Wickham had an easy manner which brought some lightness to Father’s life. I did not want to kill that little happiness in him.”
She patted his arm and said, “You were right with your intention. It is time to look forward rather than to live in regret.”
Their eyes met and he felt his shoulders lifted.
“What kind of deceit did Mr. Wickham do to your cousin?”
He stopped near a tree and raised his hand, wanting to hit it hard. But he feared that Elizabeth had seen too much violence in this day. Clenching his fist tight, he lowered his arm and gritted the words out. “It is too painful to tell.”
Elizabeth stepped in front of him, wrapped her hands around his waist and laid her head on his chest. “Tell me the day it happened.”
Breathing in her lovely scent, the weight of her head seemed to slow his heavy breathing. He told her about discovering Miss Bingley with the garnet cross and how he went to Ramsgate to visit his sister to discuss about their future. Much to his astonishment, Georgiana confessed to him her impending elopement with the scoundrel. He continued the story with how he had acted, concerning Wickham and his accomplice.
“She was then but fifteen!” He tightened his hold of Elizabeth. Tear threatened to fall from his eyes. He looked up at the sky. “I failed my father, my cousin and my sister.”
She gave him a squeeze before stepping back from his embrace. Her eyes trained on his as she held his arms firm. “We live our own lives, Fitzwilliam. You give your sister a comfortable home, a sensible education and an abundance of love. She was imprudent to allow her companion and Mr. Wickham to prey on her but she will learn from her ill advised actions. You must allow your loved ones to experience life’s trial and tribulation.”
A single tear fell from his eye. He grabbed her hand and raised it to his mouth. Then he wiped away the tear and whispered, “Thank you, Elizabeth.”
He did not know if he had acquitted himself from the delict of duty to his father, cousin and sister. But now he did not feel so overwhelmed by the guilt and regret that had been plaguing him since the Ramsgate affair. He was relieved that Elizabeth did not pity, censor or mollify him. He did not need absolution. He just needed understanding.
He held her hand for the rest of the journey back to Longbourn, not speaking a word, while pondering life’s lessons. Her hand warmed him up. Her silence fostered a sense of connection. He could walk to the end of the world now embracing the future, as long as she was with him.
When they arrived at Longbourn, she told him to rest while she explained to her father and sister about the absence of Mr. Collins. He was thankful for her prodigious care of him. Later he was able to appear for the dinner at Netherfield in a refreshed and peaceful frame of mind.
***
“It is most unfortunate your cousin is removed to Netherfield,” Mr. Bennet said to his daughters. The four occupants were assembled in the parlour at Longbourn, having a quiet drink before heading over to Netherfield.
“Miss Bingley must be frantic, with the care of our sisters and guests and now our sick cousin,” Jane said.
“Yes, you must share with Mr. Darcy what Mary had written just now about the events in Netherfield,” he smiled.
Miss Bennet flustered. “I do not want to bore Mr. Darcy with mundane chatter.”
“Nonsense! Fitzwilliam has a young sister. He must be used to such illuminating discussion.”
Darcy did not know how to reply. He looked at Elizabeth for assistance.
“How did Mary find her stay at Netherfield?” Elizabeth asked.
“She said Mr. Bingley was very kind and went out of his way to make their stay very comfortable. Her room was spacious and delightful.”
“It seems your relative Lady Susan made a great impression on my girls, despite just arriving last evening,” Mr. Bennet added.
“Did she?” Darcy was puzzled by this line of conversation.
“Mary found Lady Susan fashionable, witty and…with a great sense of right and wrong,” Jane said.
“That is an interesting observation.” Darcy said. He would classify his eldest cousin as quietly overbearing with a sweet and sour tongue.
“Yes, Lady Susan discovered Mary’s weakness immediately and bribed her to behave by providing the most interesting sheets of music from Vienna,” Mr. Bennet smirked. “And the ladyship has clashed with Lydia in spectacular style already.”
Elizabeth eyed Darcy, who turned a shade of red, with an anxious expression. “Oh, I hope Lydia did not do anything…rash.” Elizabeth said.
“It seems Lady Susan has drafted a…plan to help Mary and Lydia learn their way to becoming accomplished ladies. But Lydia finds it…trying,” Jane commented.
“A plan?” Mr. Bennet snorted. “Jane, you always find the best word to describe things. I would call it a military regime. Wake up at seven in the morning for breakfast. Exercise in the garden for one hour. Then another hour and a half of English history, French, Italian and Latin languages. By ten, how to oversee household accounts. Eleven, manner and fashion of London society. Twelve, European poems and novels… I lost track of other activities now.”
Darcy’s face turned redder. He had provided the music sheets, lesson ideas and other things. But he did not know that Lady Susan would combine all of them into one day for the two Miss Bennets!
“That would be very trying for Lydia,” Elizabeth’s eyes fixed on Darcy’s flustered face. “Since she usually does not wake up until closer to noon if possible. But the clash…?”
Jane did not continue so Mr. Bennet took up the pleasure of the story. “Half way through the English and language lesson, Lydia threw a fit and would not continue. So Lady Susan asked her what she wanted to do with her life.”
“That was a good question,” Elizabeth noted.
“Your sister’s answer was that she wanted to dance and flirt her life away with a camp full of soldiers!” Mr. Bennet said. “And she did not need to know about all these household accounts, society and languages.”
The two sisters were blushing now, ashamed of the thoughtlessness of their youngest sister. But Elizabeth, like Darcy, seemed to want to know what happened next. They were relieved that Mr. Bennet continued without further prompting.
“So Lady Susan showed her how her life would be if she wanted to go down that path. She told Lydia that a young lady who just liked to flirt and did not learn would never be taken seriously by a good soldier and would only be used and discarded by the rakish ones. If she wanted a life of depravation, Lady Susan would let her start now.”
Elizabeth gasped. “What did Lady Susan do?”
“She then started tea immediately, with her own servants bringing in the most exotic food such as hot chocolate, bananas, grapes and other wonderful creations. While Mary and she were partaking the heavenly food, she asked her nanny to make sure Lydia stood aside, just like a servant must do.”
“Oh, but Lydia loves her food,” Elizabeth exclaimed.
“Yes. Then Lady Susan brought out two most beautiful gowns. She said they were her gifts. One was for Mary and the other originally intended for Lydia. Since Lydia did not need it any more, as a discarded-gentlewoman-turned servant, Lady Susan asked her maid to alter the gown for Mary right in front of Lydia.”
“Oh dear!” That was all Elizabeth could utter.
“Lydia was distraught. She cried and begged to be brought back home,” Jane said. “Papa, perhaps we should bring her back and teach her at a slower pace.”
Mr. Bennet shook his head. “Lydia is quite set in her ways. I am ashamed to say that I was slack in the education of all of you in the past. Lydia needs a pair of strong hands. I have a feeling Lady Susan will be good for her.”
Elizabeth had a deep frown. She cast a look at Darcy. He did not know how to respond. His sister Georgiana was never rebellious and she enjoyed her lessons. He hoped Elizabeth would not blame him for her sister’s unhappiness.
“What happened next?” Elizabeth asked.
“Lydia was left locked in the room while Mary started a music lesson instead.” Jane said. “By the time Mary finished, Lydia seemed to have calmed down and agreed to continue with the lesson plan. Mary said Lydia was in fact very good with learning the household accounts. Of course, she excelled in society manners and fashion.”
“I do hope Lydia will soon acquire a passion for learning,” Elizabeth breathed out a sigh of relief.
“I hope she will be able to keep this up and not have another fit again,” Mr. Bennet said. “At least she was rewarded with another new gown, less spectacular as the one she lost to Mary though.”
“Mary said Lydia still loves it.” Jane added.
“Papa, is it right for Lady Susan to give them so many gifts?” Elizabeth asked.
“It is perfectly acceptable. When Fitzwilliam said Mrs. Hurst would invite Lady Susan to help educate Mary and Lydia, I had asked your Aunt and Uncle Gardiner to visit her in London. The first two gowns may have been from Lady Susan but the rest of the gifts are mostly from your uncle and me.” Mr. Bennet smiled. “It will be Christmas soon. Now let us go to Netherfield. I must say I surprise myself for I am eager to see how Mary and Lydia have changed in a day. I think I miss them!”
Chapter 7
Darcy was sure that he would not be enjoying the dinner, for with Miss Bingley as the hostess, she would surely put him next to her.
When the Longbourn party arrived, he found out the following seating arrangement: On his side of the table, as hostess Miss Bingley, Lady Susan, himself, Miss Lydia, Captain Denny, Elizabeth, Mr. Phillips, Lady Lucas, Colonel Forster.
Charles sat at the other head of the table. Then at the opposite of the table, starting next to Charles, Mrs. Forster, Mr. Bennet, Mrs. Philips, Sir William, Miss Mary, Hurst, Miss Bennet, Captain Chamberlayne, Mrs. Hurst, and Colonel Fitzwilliam who sat next to Miss Bingley.
He could see that Miss Bingley wanted his family near her and had her brother with the locals from Meryton.
He could understand the hostess’s tactic to put Miss Bennet as far away from her brother and Elizabeth from him. He looked longingly down his side of the table for his beloved.
Placing Miss Lydia across and next to a red coat perhaps was Miss Bingley’s wish to cause havoc during dinner.
By sitting Elizabeth’s youngest sister next to him, she probably wanted him to frown upon her total want of propriety.
“I had to pull some rank to have you seated next to me,” Lady Susan said.
“Is that right?” Darcy looked at his eldest cousin. He could see that her eyes were full of sarcasm. “Where was I supposed to sit originally?”
“In my seat,” Colonel Fitzwilliam said. “Susan had to emphasise to Miss Bingley that as a son of a Lord, even the younger one, I have higher status in society than a rich lazy landlord.”
Darcy smiled at his cousin’s words, noticing the hostess had turned crimson. Susan lowered her voice and whispered to his ears. “I would have liked to put Miss Elizabeth next to you. But I am afraid someone might put poison in my soup if I interfered too much.”
“I do not think you are intimidated by anyone,” Darcy replied. “I think you just enjoy seeing me suffer.”
“A dinner away from your love lady causes your suffering already?” Lady Susan snorted. “Has the elusive Mr. Darcy finally fallen in love? It is a pity I do not get to educate your beloved too, for I would love to teach her a few things to take your arrogance down a few notches.”
“Am I haughty to you too?” Darcy frowned. “I do not think Elizabeth requires your help. She has already cut my ego to sizes.”
“Calling her Elizabeth already?” Lady Susan burst out laughing.
“Mr. Darcy, what words of wisdom did you say to put Lady Susan in such a jolly mood?” Miss Bingley leaned over to talk to him.
Lady Susan replied with a smirk. “My dear cousin confesses that he loves to be tortured.”
“Men generally do,” Colonel Fitzwilliam added. “If their tormentors are women.”
“Brother, you are a lady’s man. That is of course true for you. But our cousin has been a saint for so many years. I thought he was immune to the meanness of our sexes.”
“Men are the breadwinners of a family. Why would we want to upset them?” Mrs. Hurst asked with wide eyes.
Lady Susan shook her head and replied to Mrs. Hurst directly. “Did I not hear Miss Bingley telling young Charles not to invite more guests to Netherfield? Your sister did not hesitate to tease the breadwinner.”
Miss Bingley’s lips thinned. She defended herself. “Taking care of an injured patient who is wholly unconnected to us is foolhardy. Mr. Collins should stay in Longbourn.”
“Oh, your brother forgot to tell you that he punched Mr. Collins to oblivions?” Colonel Fitzwilliam said.
Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst gasped out loudly.
“Now what have I missed during your visit to Darce at Longbourn?” Lady Susan raised her eyebrow. “Did Mr. Collins do anything hasty with Charles’s angel?”
“The Bennets are wild people,” Caroline raised her voice. “I am sure they provoked my brother.”
“Actually it was my fault,” Colonel Fitzwilliam said. “Wickham was in town and I just lost it.”
Lady Susan drew in a loud breath. “What was the rake doing here?”
“I do not know and I hope he has run away with tail between his legs.” The Colonel continued.
“Who is this Mr. Wickham?” Miss Bingley demanded to know more about the gossip. “And why was Charles involved?”
“You do better not knowing about this Wickham,” Colonel Fitzwilliam said. “Your brother tried to protect me when he hit Mr. Collins accidentally. Since it was his doing your brother wanted to take care of the injured here.”
“And how is Mr. Collins?” Darcy asked.
“He has recovered consciousness,” Colonel Fitzwilliam replied. “But the doctor ordered him to stay in the bed for at least a week as he lost a bit of blood. That reminds me, I should talk to Colonel Forster and apologise. Captain Denny told me Wickham had originally joined the milia stationed here.”
“There is no loss to Meryton’s neighbourhood with him gone.” Lady Susan said.
Seeing that she could not get more information about this rakish figure, Miss Bingley steered the conversation to another topic. “Miss Lydia had a trying morning.”
Lydia who was busy talking to the red coats turned her head on hearing her name. “Yes, Miss Bingley?”
“I was just telling Mr. Darcy what a trying morning you had, smashing a beautiful dish in our guest suite and rumoured to be locked up for a while.”
Miss Lydia’s face turned bright red. She opened her mouth to retort but Lady Susan beat her to that. “Miss Lydia is an exuberant young woman I would love to have her under my wings. I have been thinking of inviting her to stay at my townhouse in London when I leave Hertfordshire.”
“Would you do that, Lady Susan?” Lydia’s eyes sparkled. To be invited to stay at a Lady’s house was beyond her imagination. “I shall try my very best to swallow all this dry history of England and learn these ridiculously difficult languages!” She turned to Captain Denny and laughed out loud, “I could only remember ‘je vous aime’ because it means I love you. Oh, did I say it correctly? Whatever!”
Miss Bingley attempted to whisper to Mr. Darcy, as much as distance allowed. “Some country savages can never be taught the proper manners of society. Imagine how shocked my family and friends would be if I am related to some country chits with no sense.”
“I always tell Darcy to be careful of any woman who resort to meanness to advance her cause of securing his attention,” Lady Susan drew in a deep breath and jumped in. “A jolly young girl who has seen little of the world could learn to be more sensible than a snotty old woman who puts wealth and connection above character. A burnt orange can never revert to its original sweetness but an immature one has the potential of gaining great depth.”
Darcy choked on Susan’s words about a burnt orange. Colonel Fitzwilliam grinned while Lady Susan continued her meal with elegance.
***
After dinner, Darcy and the gentlemen left the ladies for their port. He was worried about leaving the women to their own entertainment, for he could see that Miss Bingley was on the verge of an outburst, if Lady Susan continued to provoke her.
He also did not want Elizabeth and her sisters to be at the receiving end of Miss Bingley’s snide remarks.
He was therefore very inattentive to the discussion of the other men during the short duration they remained in the study. In a rather impatient manner, he reminded the others to join the ladies soon.
It was not soon enough, for mayhem had broken out in the room. Miss Lydia’s brand new chestnut-coloured evening gown had splashes of red stain on it. Mrs. Foster and Miss Bingley were tearing off each other’s hair, while Mrs. Hurst and Lady Lucas tried to separate the two of them.
Mrs Phillips was about to help or join in the fight, but Elizabeth and Miss Bennet tried to restrain her. Miss Mary sat on the chaise with mouth hang open while Lady Susan was fanning herself frantically.
“Stop!” Mr. Bennet yelled out loud.
The ladies stopped momentarily, except for Mrs. Foster who could not stop in time and her hand slapped Miss Bingley on her face.
“Harriet, Stop!” This time Colonel Foster joined in.
Miss Bingley kicked her assailant on the shin, smashed a cup of tea on the ground before walking out of the room. Mrs. Hurst dashed out to follow her sister.
Mrs. Forster groaned out in pain and burst out crying. Her husband and Miss Lydia rushed to assist her immediately.
“Charles, perhaps you should prepare a room for Mrs. Foster too. She is injured.” Lady Susan said.
“I would not stay in this horrible woman’s house for an instant longer!” Mrs. Foster demanded her husband to take her home.
“Papa, I don’t want to stay here either!” Miss Lydia joined in.
Miss Bennet had tears in her eyes and Elizabeth was holding her hands. Darcy stood by their sides, helpless in consolation.
Colonel Fitzwilliam pulled his sister aside and talked to her in hushed voices.
Mr. Bennet replied, “Mary, take your sister to change and come down again. I want to hear what happened.”
After Bingley apologised to the guests, the Fosters, the officers, the Phillips and the Lucases took their leave.
Darcy saw Elizabeth approached his father.
“Papa, can I have a word in private with Mr. Darcy?” She asked. He could see that she was wringing the handkerchief.
His father looked at her for a moment before asking Mr. Bingley to allow them to use the library.
“I shall leave you two here,” Mr. Bennet said and left the library, leaving the door open. “Do not take long, as I want to return to Longbourn soon.”
Elizabeth agreed while Darcy was baffled by the request of a private talk.
“Would you sit down?” Looking up at him, she said.
He sat down with a puzzled look. She then started pacing around the room. Then she stopped in front of him.
“Do you still wish to comply with your father’s pledge?” Her voice was hoarse and shaky.
“To marry you?” He thought she was decidedly against him. Therefore he had to confirm.
“Yes.” She looked at him intently, drew in a deep breath and said slowly. “I have changed my mind and I would be honoured to accept your father’s heartfelt promise.”
His eyes widened. He had expected to spend months to change her heart. He did not understand why her sudden transformation.
He stood from the chair and held her hands. “May I ask why, and so suddenly?”
She rolled her eyes, withdrew her hands and sat down. “You give me your answer first.”
He sat down once again, very close to her and pulled her hands into his again. “Miss Bennet, it is my greatest honour and pleasure to have you as my wife.”
She opened her mouth to say something but he was so happy that he could only express himself as a young man violently in love could. He lowered his head and kissed her.
Her lips were soft and tender. She tasted of tea and lavender. The delectable scent stirred him up. Cranking his head slightly, he started suckling her lips and the tiny provocative tongue. He could feel her as she gasped for air and hear her moan out softly.
His hands let go of hers and wandered to her waist. Pulling her closer to him, he could feel her lush bosom pressed onto his hard chest. He groaned out in ecstasy as her soft form sheaved against his masculine shape. He traced his mouth to her delicious earlobe and nibbled at her neck.
As he lowered his head to breath in the aroma of her bosom, he would have pushed the sleeves of her elegant evening gown down had she not grabbed at his hair.
The pull on his head startled him. He raised his head and breathed deeply to calm himself. She had her eyes closed and her head rested on the chaise. How he wanted to teach her the pleasure of a union! But he remembered her father’s words. Mr. Bennet was waiting for them to return to Longbourn.
He traced his fingers from her neck down the neckline. His knuckles took in the smooth texture of her skin and the pert porcelain flesh. The trembling transferred from her body down his spine.
“Elizabeth, thank you for agreeing to be my wife. I shall talk to your father when we get back to Longbourn.”
His words woke her. She blinked her eyes open and jumped up. Her face was in a deep shade of scarlet. Her lips were swollen and her hair dishevelled. “I would prefer a long engagement and could we stay in London for the time being?”
He looked up at her pacing around with a frown. He was still basking in the heat of her body. He could not think clearly yet.
“I mean could we spend the time of our engagement in London, or Derbyshire later?” She explained.
“How long do you want our engagement to be?” He asked.
“As long as I am convinced.”
“Of what?”
“That Mr. Darcy, you love me and that I love you.”
In his mind, he said he was already in love with her. He remembered how she encouraged him to talk about the events concerning Georgiana. He wanted to spend the rest of his life with her, just only her. But would she be convinced of his ardent feelings, so soon after their acquaintance? He was not sure and decided to be cautious and asked her to explain instead. “Why do you wish to be away from Longbourn?”
“I simply do not wish to be near Miss Bingley.”
“What did she do?” He asked with concern.
Elizabeth’s eyes flashed suddenly, the haze of romance had turned into anger. “She has been horrible to Lydia and Mary. She even said some cruel words about Jane.”
“Then she ruined Miss Lydia’s new dress?”
“Her aim was at me.” She said.
“What?”
“She was so loathsome about my family and saying how much she was as superior as you were. I retorted.”
“What did you say?”
“I told her she would never have a chance with you, for not only did your father promise you to me, you had asked me for my hand too.” She smiled and blushed. “She threw a tantrum then.”
“And Miss Lydia tried to protect you?”
“I ducked to one side and Lydia got caught up.”
“But why was she sparring with Mrs. Forster then?”
“You really want to know?”
Darcy nodded.
Elizabeth shrugged and continued. “Lydia said Miss Bingley was like a savage, uttering barbaric words and had fits. The hostess snapped back and said all Hertfordshire women were wild and stupid. Mrs. Foster, a local, protested. She said she was smart enough to catch a colonel, better than Miss Bingley who was old and desperate. Miss Bingley sneered at Mrs. Forster’s husband, saying he was old and gross. And Mrs. Foster rebutted, saying she was a dry orange. Then things got out of hand.”
He could not suppress the laugh and she joined in. When they stopped, his head was clearer. “You agree to marry me to shut Miss Bingley up?” He asked, unsure of himself.
She went to stand in front of a shelf of books, tracing her fingers along the volumes. “Well, you have taken quite a lot of liberties.”
He could barely hear her. “You did not seem to object.”
She swirled around and glared at him. “You took me by surprise!” She protested loudly. Colour heightened on her face.
He stood up, walked towards her in a few quick steps and trapped her against the books. “But you enjoy it.”
She panted and looked up to him. He swore she was gazing at his lips and licking hers. But then she said, “Not as much as you!” She replied, “Excuse me, Mr. Darcy. I think it is time we return to my father. We have been here for too long. It is not proper.”
He stood aside. She stepped away from him and added, “Even though we are engaged.” Then she turned and walked out of the library, swaying her body in a rather exaggerated movement.
Did she just sway her bottoms outrageously for his enjoyment? He shook his head and stayed in the library for a few more minutes to suppress his ardency before returning to the sitting room.
Chapter 8
When Darcy returned to the sitting room, Mr. Bennet seemed to have persuaded Miss Lydia to stay, for Lady Susan, Miss Mary and she were no where to be seen. As the Longbourn party prepared to leave, his cousin pulled him aside.
“Susan told me you are engaged to Miss Elizabeth?” Colonel Fitzwilliam asked.
Darcy nodded. He glanced at his intended and could not suppress a satisfied smile.
“Oh, spare me the love sick expression,” his cousin said, “are you sure? She did not trap you or something? Susan said she talked about Uncle Darcy promising you to her. Why have we not heard about it before?”
Darcy was annoyed with the Colonel. Elizabeth was nothing like what he had implied. He looked at her as a servant assisted with putting the cloak on for her. He felt a loss of not providing that service to his fiancée on the first occasion after their engagement. “I am sure. Elizabeth has not done anything untoward to make me offer for her. In fact I had to persuade her. I did not know how Susan figured out about Elizabeth and me. But I shall tell you the story concerning my Father in the next few days. I have to leave now.”
“Shocking!” Colonel Fitzwilliam swore under his breath. “You cannot take your eyes from the lady. You are totally besotted. Tomorrow I shall visit you and you have to give me the full story. Now, I am riding out to the camp too.”
“Is it not too late to be visiting?”
“I want to talk to Chamberlayne about Denny and Wickham. Just to make sure the scoundrel will not come back to bother your intended.”
Darcy was alarmed. But he thanked his cousin.
“And I want to apologise to Colonel Foster, for causing a scene with his potential recruit. Of course, some beer in a warm tavern is preferred over the frigid atmosphere here, with Susan gloating Miss Bingley to madness every possible opportunity she finds.”
“Susan had something to do with the fight between Mrs. Foster and Miss Bingley?” Darcy was puzzled.
“Did Miss Elizabeth not tell you about it?” Colonel Fitzwilliam raised his brow. “You two were shut in the library for a very long time. What did you do?”
“The door was open and we were not that long!”
“If you say so,” Colonel Fitzwilliam shrugged his shoulders and continued. “Apparently Susan has been talking up your virtues during tea and how you have never found any woman to match your highest standard. But then you wrote to ask her to come and help you win the heart of a local beauty. That you praised this woman to the sky, saying she is so much more superior than the women you have known so far, in particular twenty times better than a certain sister of a friend who has been chasing you for years.”
Darcy groaned out loud. “I did not write such a letter!”
“Miss Elizabeth is not twenty times superior than Miss Bingley?” Colonel Fitzwilliam winked.
“Elizabeth is the best lady I have known but I did not tell Susan about it. I did not even tell her Elizabeth’s name when I wrote to her. I have no idea how she figured that I wanted to sit with Elizabeth tonight.”
“Susan has an uncanny way to pierce information together,” his cousin grinned. “Especially since Miss Lydia and Bingley are both rather talkative.”
Darcy shook his head and bid his cousin good night.
He spent the carriage ride in silence, taking in the beauty of his intended. He was sure that Elizabeth darted her fine eyes to look at him much more often, as she chatted with her eldest sister. The blushing shade did not leave Elizabeth’s face and she had this half teasing and half smiling expression which made her all too enticing.
He hoped they could walk out tomorrow to discuss the date of their wedding. The earliest would be the best, for he could not wait to share his days with her and his bed.
When they arrived in Longbourn, he asked to talk to Mr. Bennet, if he was not too tired.
“Well?” Mr. Bennet asked, as they entered the elderly gentleman’s study.
“Elizabeth… ah—Miss Elizabeth has done me the greatest honour and agreed to be my wife. I ask for your permission and blessing.” Darcy bowed and asked formally.
Mr. Bennet gave him a clap on the shoulders and embraced him.
“Fitzwilliam, I am very happy for you two. I am sure you will take prodigious good care of my favourite girl. You are a conscientious young man.”
“I promise, Mr. Bennet. I shall respect and honour Elizabeth, provide for her and make her the happiest woman in the world for the rest of my life.” Darcy replied solemnly, promising to his future father, as much as promising to Elizabeth and himself.
“Welcome to the family!” Mr. Bennet said and went to open a bottle of wine. “Have a sip and tell me what is bothering you.”
Darcy was surprised that Mr. Bennet noticed his worry. “You knew about the reasons for tonight’s fight?”
Mr. Bennet nodded. “Lydia and Lady Susan explained to me.”
“I am worried that Miss Elizabeth entered into the engagement without thinking it through.”
“You need not be worried about that.” Mr. Bennet said. “Lizzy is not the kind of girl who rushes into things, even under provocation.”
Darcy thought for a moment and had to agree with Mr. Bennet’s assessment. Could he hope that she started to have feelings for him? “She wanted a long engagement, saying she wishes to make sure she is in love with me before we get married.”
Mr. Bennet raised his eyebrow and asked, “And you do not?”
Darcy felt flustered with such a direct question. He replied honestly, “Sir, your daughter has enchanted me. I do not want to part with her from now on.”
“Ah, the romance of youthful devotion. Perhaps it is good that Lizzy asks for a long engagement. It can test your fortitude and constancy. Now should we have your wedding in three years’ time?” The older gentleman jested.
Darcy gasped and then shook his head and disagreed, “I hope to persuade her to get married before Christmas. I am not a young man of one and twenty, Sir. And I have resisted temptation of sirens and maidens for many years. I know my heart.”
“But Lizzy is not yet one and twenty. Perhaps when you present her to your society, she will run off with a more charming man.” Mr. Bennet said with a sly smile.
Darcy stood up and paced around the room. He had not thought about this before. His Elizabeth had not seen much of the world. She might not put another suitor’s character before his wealth, but could she resist the charm of a gentleman who was ten times more amiable than he?
“Now stop worrying young man! You just need to learn how to charm her. For someone as unsuccessful as me in marital bliss, I do have advice for you.” Mr. Bennet raised his cup for a toast. “Learn and observe from other happily married couples. I dearly wish Lizzy and you will be forever happy!”
Darcy stopped the pacing and raised his cup. Yes, his late parents would be a good example. He needed to treat Elizabeth with respect and tender loving care as his father did for his mother. He was looking forward to charming Elizabeth, starting as soon as possible the next morning.
***
But his plan to have a heart-to-heart chat with Elizabeth the next day was foiled by the early arrival of an agitated Bingley.
Mr. Bingley had declined breakfast with the family. Not even sparing a look at his angelic Miss Bennet, he asked to have a private word with Mr. Darcy.
The two of them walked out to the wilderness at the back of Longbourn.
“What is the matter?” Darcy asked with concern. He had not seen his best friend in such a state as this before. “Are you well, Charles?”
“It is Caroline.” Bingley sat down heavily on a fallen log and cradled his head in his hands.
“She is not well?”
“Earlier this morning a loud scream woke me and she was found…” Bingley choked with emotion.
“found…?” Darcy prompted. He feared for the worst.
“Caroline was found…inside Mr. Collins’s room.”
Darcy gasped for air. “How did it happen?”
“She was...asleep on top of ... Mr. Collins.”
“What?”
“She was fully clothed, but Mr. Collins….” Bingley found it difficult to continue again.
“He is fine?”
“Mr. Collins was tied to the bed, face down. His trousers were stripped off. His buttocks had signs of heavy lashing.” Words tumbled out of Bingley’s mouth. “Caroline had a leather whip in her hand.”
Darcy swore. “How did it happen?”
“That crazy sister of mine was so drunk that I could not interrogate her. Fossett and I untied Mr. Collins. Our guest said he was suddenly woken up, stripped, tied up, gagged and whipped for almost an hour. It seemed Caroline was…” Bingley’s choked explanation was stopped in mid sentence.
“Your sister was what?”
“She was…she thought Mr. Collins was you…” His voice trailed.
“What?” That was the only response Darcy could utter.
“Mr. Collins said she cursed you vehemently when she beat him up, said you should not have allowed yourself to be engaged to Miss Elizabeth.” Bingley murmured. “She said you needed to learn a lesson, to be appreciative of her masterful quality. You could not escape her, now that you were in her clutches, for the whole night. I know in times past Caroline has used some cutting horse spurs on the horses before. Louisa and I have talked to her about that. She has given up riding in the countryside, except she still appears fashionable with her horse in Hyde Park. I did not know that she could be so violent, so horribly enraged.”
“My goodness!” Darcy exclaimed.
“What am I supposed to do?” Bingley looked at his friend helplessly. “Mr. Collins said he would not marry such a crazy woman. But two or maybe more of the servants saw them, in that state this morning. It was the scream of one of the maids that woke us up. Lady Susan and the other Miss Bennets were in the other side of the guest wings and did not hear about it but they were bursting with questions after the busy going this morning.”
Darcy paced around and thought about the best solution. “Nothing can be done. You must bribe Mr. Collins to marry Miss Bingley. After the ceremony, you can set up a separate household for her.”
“I did suggest that already. I offered to purchase a small estate in an area far from London for Mr. Collins. But he said he could not leave his honourable patron Lady Catherine de Bourgh. If he married, his wife must reside with him in Hunsford, until Longbourn is available.” Bingley said. “He said Lady Catherine would not approve of my sister. He is demanding to leave this morning, even if he must kneel on the floor of the carriage the whole way back to Kent. I asked Fossett to give him some sleeping draught, to calm him for a short time while I immediately came here to ask for your advice. Can you go with Collins and me to Kent to persuade your aunt to approve this marriage? I have to take Caroline with me too. I dare not leave her here. She may harm the other Miss Bennets.”
Darcy paced around.
“Mr. Collins said Miss Elizabeth and I were engaged?”
Bingley nodded. “At least that was what Caroline told him. Is it true?”
“Yes, I have been granted Mr. Bennet’s permission just last night. I do not think my aunt will listen to me, now that she knows I am not to marry her daughter,” Darcy said. “How about my cousin? We can ask him to go with you. He advises Lady Catherine of estate issues from time to time too, when I am not available.”
“Colonel Fitzwilliam did not return last night. But we found his room trashed.” Bingley said with a sigh.
“What?”
“I suspect Caroline went there first, before she found Mr. Collins. We found one of her slippers inside Colonel Fitzwilliam’s room. She must have been on the hunt to find you…”
Darcy gritted his teeth. “It is fortunate my cousin went to the camp last evening, though I doubt Miss Bingley could tie him up in her drunken state. I shall go with you back to Netherfield. If Richard is not yet back, I shall ride to the camp to find him. You will need two carriages, to transport your drunken sister and the drugged Mr. Collins.”
The two of them returned to the house and bid the curious ladies a hasty goodbye.
When Mr. Bingley arrived at Netherfield, he immediately arranged for the carriages and asked Louisa and Fossett to prepare Miss Bingley and Mr. Collins for the journey.
Colonel Fitzwilliam had returned from the camp, nursing a cup of coffee in the library. That saved Darcy a trip. He left Bingley to talk to his cousin.
“Visiting so early? Did you know what the hell happened to my things and my room?” The Colonel said.
“Hurst did not enlighten you?” Darcy replied.
“He is still deep in sleep. Mrs. Hurst is busy and Fossett’s lips are sealed. My best morning coat has been torn to pieces. Bingley will have to replace them, immediately!”
“Bingley needs your help, to go to Rosings and persuade Lady Catherine to sanction Miss Bingley’s marriage to Mr. Collins.”
“Bloody hell, something outrageous definitely happened here last night, if the snooty Orange lady bears to give you up and lower herself for the good pastor!” Richard laughed out loud, rubbing his hands eagerly. “Do not spare any detail. I will be more than happy to help young Charles to secure the lovely Miss Bingley’s future.”
Darcy told him about the event last night.
Colonel Fitzwilliam could not keep his composure. He was laughing so hard that he had tears in his eyes. “What a lucky escape, for me!”
“You do not think that Miss Bingley is capable to tie you up?”
“After a cup or two of cheap port, I could be putty in the charming Miss Bingley’s hands.”
“Do you think Mr. Collins could be persuaded?” Darcy asked.
“I shall work on him, right when the carriage leaves here. He is too idealistic, to wish for his wife to be by his side all the time. With Miss Bingley’s twenty thousand pound dowry, he could put his feet up and stop listening to Lady Catherine’s well meaning instruction.”
“You sound like you envy Mr. Collins forthcoming nuptial.”
“I would not touch the exquisite Miss Bingley if you gave me double the money. Braving the guns of Boney is much better than facing her whip.”
“Bingley would be grateful for your help. But try not to appear too happy about it. He is really upset about the whole thing.”
“Ah, gentlemanlike concern! He and you are too good. This old soldier has seen the world’s ugliness. Miss Bingley has dug her own grave and she has to lie in it!”
“I hope you can keep Lady Catherine in Kent for a few days too.”
Colonel Fitzwilliam shook his head. “What are you afraid of?”
“Elizabeth has been under a lot of pressure. I do not want our aunt coming here to cause her grief.”
“Your fiancée is a lot tougher than you, I suspect. But if you want to act like the protective hero, who am I to dissuade you. That is an additional favour. You have to pay dearly.”
“A good bottle of French champagne?”
“Promise your first born to me.”
“You want to be godfather of my first daughter? I have to discuss it with Elizabeth first.”
“Ah, thinking of a herd of children already?” Colonel Fitzwilliam shook his head again. “Who said I want to be a godfather? I just want to manage young Miss Darcy’s finances. What old soldier would not want to skim off a rich relative?” He laughed as he merrily left the library to prepare for the journey.
When Darcy returned to the study, Bingley was not there but Lady Susan was waiting for him.
“My dear cousin, what a lovely surprise! What brings you back to Netherfield so early?” Lady Susan said.
“Bingley needs some assistance with a family matter.”
“You are not going to tell your good cousin about it? I thought I was your ally. Tsk! Tsk! Did I not help you get Miss Elizabeth to admit to your secret engagement?”
“Elizabeth and I were not secretly engaged.”
“Then what is this juicy revelation that Uncle Darcy promised you to her?”
Darcy sighed and told Lady Susan about the story behind the garnet cross. “But we were not yet engaged last night.”
“Of course, you must have been boorish as you always act with strangers and offended her. Now you must thank me, for making her see you in a better light.”
“I cannot understand how you were able to deduct so much from a mere letter I sent you to ask you to come here and help Miss Mary and Miss Lydia?”
“Typical men, they do not tell us anything. It did not even take me a full morning to talk to Mrs. Hurst and the two Miss Bennets to work out you are besotted with Miss Elizabeth. Well you can keep the secret about this mission to Rosings. I know more than you think.”
Darcy grimaced. “Then why did you ask me just now?”
“To give you an opportunity to be open to your amicable cousin.”
Darcy shook his head. He hoped Elizabeth was less difficult to understand than his cousin.
“Well, since most of the Netherfield hosts will not be in residence, do you want me to continue Mary and Lydia’s transformation here or in London?”
“Are you really at leisure to invite them to your townhouse?”
“Darcy, you have to learn to socialise with your future sisters. If you present such a grime face every time you see them, Elizabeth will not warm to you.”
“I know. But Miss Mary talks only of religious matter and Miss Lydia of men and red coats. I feel uncomfortable discussing such topics with them.”
“They are just young girls who did not have the benefit of good guidance in the past. They may sound silly now but they are never malicious or mean. I think you need some education in conversing with ‘average’ young ladies. I shall make time to talk to Miss Elizabeth next.”
“I hope Elizabeth does not learn too much from you.”
“You are afraid she will gain control over you soon?” Lady Susan laughed. “Darcy, your fate is sealed! Miss Elizabeth does not need to do that, she delivers her instructions with such sweetness.”
Darcy shook his head. “We were talking about London. I shall consult Mr. Bennet about his daughters when I return to Longbourn later today. Now, I must see Bingley off.”
When Darcy walked out to the carriage yard, he could see that Mr. Collins and Colonel Fitzwilliam were settled in one of the carriages. The former lay on his stomach on a seat. He had his eyes closed and his face grimaced in pain.
Mr. Bingley was helping a tipsy Miss Bingley into the other carriage. When the latter saw Darcy, she struggled free of her sibling and threw herself at him. “Sweet pea..urh…Did…you…enjoy what I did…last night?”
Darcy tried to pull her hands from his neck. “It is late! You must get into the carriage.”
She dropped her hands and pinched his bottom. “So…firm! You love the…pain?”
Darcy yelled and jumped back. Bingley grabbed his sister by the waist and pulled her away.
“You were…magnificent last night! I am sure I…brought you to heaven. I loved licking your…buttocks. You tasted like…wood.” Miss Bingley shouted over her shoulders. Bingley’s face was as red as a ripe tomato. Bingley threw his sister into the carriage roughly, locked the door and dashed back to Darcy.
Bingley bowed, with tears threatening to fall from his eyes. “Darcy, I am utterly ashamed of my sister. Please accept my apology for her vulgar gesture and crass outburst. I gave her another cup of wine to make her come with me willingly. If you decide to severe your ties with my family, I shall understand and not blame you. Oh, yes. Be so kind as to apologise for us to Miss Bennet. Say that urgent business calls us away immediately. Please conceal the unhappy truth as long as it is possible, I know it cannot be long.”
When he turned to go, Darcy grabbed his shoulders and gave him a hug. “Charles, you are a good man and my best friend. I shall not stop our friendship for something you have no control of. Elizabeth told me once that we must allow our loved ones to experience life’s trial and tribulation. I am sure you will rise above this difficult circumstance. Do not give up on your own happiness. Miss Jane Bennet is stronger than you think.”
Bingley wrapped his arms tightly around Darcy’s back and choked out a sob. Then he pulled himself away and brushed away the tears. “Darce, you are right. I should concentrate on helping Caroline and getting her married to Mr. Collins. I shall come back, soon.”
Darcy nodded and added. “I have only told Richard. I shall apologise to Miss Bennet for you but leave you to explain the situation when you return.”
Bingley shook Darcy’s hands heartily and then stepped into the carriage.
Chapter 9
After bidding goodbye to Mrs. Hursts, Lady Susan and the Miss Bennets, Darcy raced his horse in the opposite direction of Netherfield and Longbourn. The wild wind cooled his tense body and the passing green field lightened his heavy heart.
When he reached a small hill, he reined Osias in and surveyed the houses down in the valley. As his eyes gazed upon the homey visage of the buildings, he felt a sensation of dissatisfaction welling up in his mind. He felt for Bingley, who was such an amiable person. His younger friend probably lived more up to the description of a gentleman than he himself in Elizabeth’s eyes - young, handsome, polite and his love to be sociable.
And yet, just when Bingley reached the time of his life to achieve the goal of his family and himself, of becoming apart of the landed-gentry, his reputation could be tarnished by a moment of drunkenness of his sister.
Georgiana, his sister, caused him or some worries and concerns last summer. But she was only 15 years old and under the persuasive charm of Wickham to act foolishly. Miss Bingley is older than Charles and yet she resorted to lies, thievery and assault in order to make Darcy offer for her. What set Miss Bingley off in the first place to this road of self-destruction and degradation? Charles said in times past she had used cutting spurs before to harshly discipline her horse. Could she be born with such a violent temper? Or did she acquire a taste of ruefulness through her youth? He shook his head and gave up the idea of finding an answer to these life puzzling questions.
When he was ready to ride down the hill, a flash of silver charging toward his horse spooked his composure. Osias was startled and raised his hooves high. Darcy was thrown from the horse’s back. He landed on the ground heavily but managed to roll away to safety.
As he turned to check on his horse, a sword was pointed to his shoulders.
“Wickham!” Darcy swore. In his haste to get Colonel Fitzwilliam to go with Bingley to Kent, he had forgotten to ask his cousin about Wickham.
“What wonderful luck I have, Darcy boy!” Wickham exclaimed with a charming smirk. “Now you can repay me for what bloody Richard had done.”
The assailant used his other hand to stroke the deep cut on the cheek that was caused by Colonel Fitzwilliam in Meryton and raised the sword to Darcy’s face menacingly.
“I would enjoy turning you into a scarred face,” Wickham swore. “No woman will be interested in you, even with your grand estate Pemberley.”
“How can you sleep at night, with the intent of bringing harm to Georgiana and me? Did you not have a sense of decency and gratitude for what my Father had provided you?” Darcy retorted.
“Decency my ass! I prefer to have a nice warm bed and a willing woman than doing the right thing. Well to save your pretty face, it is simple. Just hand over your wallet, your ring and your watch.”
Darcy sat up, feeling some pain in his right ankle. He pulled out his possessions and threw them to Wickham.
With eyes glued to his victim, Wickham picked them up and had a quick look.
He whistled and laughed. “Wonderful. With these and your horse, I should be set up for a few weeks. Now stand up and turnaround.”
“What do you want?” Darcy stood up slowly as instructed. He was facing a downhill slope, with a sword to his back. He felt a chill down his spine and thought he might never see Georgiana and Elizabeth ever again.
“No need to fear for your life.” Wickham laughed. “I am not a murderer.”
Darcy turned his head and assessed if he could disarm the culprit’s sword. Just then, Wickham gave him a big push from the back. “Now enjoy the valley while I ride your horse to find the next hot wench!”
Darcy’s leg buckled and he braced his hands over his head as his body rolled down the hill. The branches and spiky bushes scratched and grazed his hands and body. Finally the downward motion stopped and he landed forcefully on his back.
He panted heavily. When the dizziness and pain seemed to subside, he tried to raise himself from the ground. Both his hands were bleeding, though not profusely. His right ankle was injured and he felt the pain as he attempted a few steps.
Gritting his teeth, he limped along the outgrown branches in a painfully slow pace. After almost an hour, he had only covered a short distance. He wondered if he could reach Longbourn or Netherfield by night fall.
Luckily for him, after another hour, he found his way out of the valley and onto a lane. Not a few hundred steps further on, he was met by a small horse drawn wagon.
“Fitzwilliam, what happened?” Elizabeth exclaimed and jumped out to his side.
He had never been so happy to greet someone. With no regard to his painful and dirty body, he embraced her tightly and breathed in her calming scent.
“It was Wickham!”
“You are injured,” Elizabeth’s voice was filled with emotion. “Let me help get you onto the wagon.””
Once again, with some painful manoeuvres, Darcy was sitting tightly by his beloved’s side.
“Your hands are bleeding. Let me take care of them first.” She took out a saddle bag carrying a small container of water and gently washed his hands.” “May I use your cravat to cover them?”
He nodded.
Her head drew near his and she started untying the neckcloth. After the traumatic events of the morning, Darcy felt relieved now, safely in her hands. The way she tenderly took care of him made him feel like a child once again back to the embrace of his mother. He felt the urge to lay his head on her bosom and let her sing him to sleep. His head dropped onto her shoulder. He whispered “I love you, Lizzy” before falling into an exhausted sleep.
Shortly after he closed his eyes, he was woken up again.
“Please Fitzwilliam, you cannot fall asleep. Wake up please my love.” He heard the begging voice of Elizabeth. “You will fall out of the wagon if you do not stay awake for I cannot hold onto you at the same time holding onto the reins.”
With great difficult, he blinked open his eyes. He could feel the shaking motion of the wagon and Elizabeth had one hand on the reins and another around his waist.
“Yes.” He answered drowsily.
“Hold on to me tight.”
He obliged and put both his arms to wrap around her. “Is that…better?”
“Yes. No. Can you not sit…up straight?” She stammered.
“Why? It is easier to…balance by embracing you.”
“You do not sound like you are quite that injured.”
Darcy felt less sleepy now, with her chatter keeping him alert. “What would a more seriously injured man sound like?”
“Talking nonsense, perhaps.” She commented.
“You smell wonderful.”
“It is lavender water. Are you pretending to talk silly?”
“Why would I? Do you bathe in it?” He drew in another deep breath, happy to forget about the clash with Wickham and pain in his body.
“Yes.”
“Can I bathe in lavender water with you?”
“Fitzwilliam!”
“What?”
“We are yet to marry. It is scandalous to think about bathing together now. Did you also hurt your head to be talking such nonsense?””
“I do not think so. But my body hurts. I would rather ponder about us in the bath. It gives me pleasure.” He touched his lips to her neck.
The wagon jerked slightly and she exclaimed. “Fitzwilliam! You will send us into the mud again if you keep doing that.”
“I cannot…sleep.” He yawned “And I cannot kiss. What can I do?”
“Tell me why Mr. Bingley needed you this morning.”
“I cannot do that. Charles wanted to explain to Miss Bennet himself, when he returns.”
“Do you not realize the worries my sister and I had this morning? We have never seen Mr. Bingley this serious and grim. And then you were gone hours. I have been looking for you for nearly an hour. If I had not met you here, I intended to go straight to knock on Netherfield’s door.”” She raised her voice. “I beg your pardon…what did you say? Returns? Where did he go?”
“Miss Bingley and he have urgent business to attend.”
“And you cannot tell me about the business?”
“It is Bingley’s private matter.”
“Perhaps I shall visit my other sisters after I deliver you back to Longbourn.”
“I did not tell Susan or your sisters.”
“They must have heard something.”
“You want to speculate on gossip?”
“Obstinate man! Why am I betrothed to you?”
“You asked me to offer for you, remember?” He defensibly answered.
“It is all that vexing Miss Bingley’s doing.”
“I should thank her profusely when I next meet with her.””
“I am sure she will be ecstatic. But then how did you meet up with Mr. Wickham?”
“I rode up a small hill for a breath of fresh air after I left Netherfield and he startled me there.”
“What did he do?”
“He robbed my possessions and took Osias.”
She gasped out loud. “With a gun?”
“With a sword.”
“Blackguard! He injured your hands and leg. How could he harm an unarmed man? Does he not have any sense of honour?”
“No! Then he pushed me down into the valley.”
Elizabeth stopped the wagon and turned to wrap her hands around his neck and buried her face there. “He could have killed you!”
“He said he was not a murderer.””
“But you could have knocked your head and been left bleeding to death.”
“It is fortunate for him and me as well.””
“Fitzwilliam, I …” She started sobbing. “I could have…lost you forever.”
He tried to smooth his hands over her back but noticed that they were wrapped up. He rocked her gently as she cried. It was heavenly to feel her body so close to him again, to know that he did not come to any harm and they would have their lives together in the future.
“Do not cry, my dearest and loveliest Elizabeth. All is well now.”
She slowly regained her composure. Raising her head, he brushed away the tears with his bandaged hands. When their lips touched, it was a moment for confirmation. It started out tender and slow.
And then their passion grew as he opened his mouth and suckled her sensuous lips. She timidly imitated his actions. He started thrusting his tongue into her sultry mouth, pushing in and out, grazing her soft muscle and hot tongue. She panted, squirmed and moaned to fever pitch for a few minutes and then jerked her body to his violently, before becoming limp.
Darcy blinked his eyes a few minutes. Did he just bring Elizabeth to her climax on a country lane with only his kisses? He slowed his ardency and reluctantly left her alluring mouth. Turning away from her, he tried his best to suppress his arousal.
“What just happened?” She whispered.
“Did you find it pleasant?”
She drew in a deep breath and nodded. “I felt like I was on fire and as if I had flown to the sky. And you?”
He gazed at her and answered solemnly. “I love you, Elizabeth, with all my heart and body.”
“I love you too, Fitzwilliam.”
Darcy had never felt such happiness until now. There was a sense of completeness in his mind on hearing Elizabeth’s declaration. He could not help but lower his head to her again. This time their lips just met briefly again, to seal the memory for all eternity. Then she started the wagon. He sat upright, shoulder to shoulder, thigh to thigh, by her side as they journeyed home.
***
When the couple arrived at Longbourn, Dr. Smith was sent for despite Darcy’s protest. Elizabeth took on the role of Mrs. Bennet and fussed over the injured profusely, until her father banned her from dashing up and down the stairs.
Darcy was bemused by the reaction of his beloved. She was behaving like an old wife who worried about a tiny sniffle from her husband. He shook his head. He was touched by such an endearing gesture but a little concerned that the future Mrs. Darcy might be developing a nervous condition much like her mother.
After a wash, a change of clothes and attendance by the doctor, all supervised by Elizabeth down from the parlour, Darcy settled in his guest chamber. Winston brought in some light refreshment, as per Miss Elizabeth Bennet’s instruction. Unfortunately Mr. Darcy had no use of his hands. He did not want to have Winston feed him. So he sent his valet with the tray back down again.
That brought thunderous footsteps up the stairs moments later. Elizabeth pushed opened the door of his room, dropped the tray of refreshment on the side table and then stood next to his bed with hands on her hips.
“Why did you not take any refreshment?” She demanded. “You need to eat to get well soon.”
He gazed at her angry countenance and smirked at the strong reaction from the lady. Grinning, he held up his hands. Both were bandaged up again, more neatly and tidily by Dr. Smith. “I have no use of my hands, for at least a week.”
“Winston cannot feed you?”
“He is not as pretty as a certain lady.” He suppressed his smile and pretended to be sick. “I am afraid of indigestion if he feeds me.”
“Am I to be reduced to your maid?” She folded her arms across her bosom.
“Far be it. You are my guardian angel.”
She stepped forward and put her hand on his forehead. “Fever must have taken over you. You talk like the amiable Mr. Bingley.”
“You prefer the brooding Mr. Darcy?” He frowned and pulled her down to sit on his lap.
“Fitzwilliam!” She scolded him in a low voice. “The door is open. Jane or Papa may see us.”
“That will be good. You will be compromised and we can get married much sooner – perhaps some time this week! He darted a glance to the empty corridor, making sure no one was about, before lowering his mouth to nuzzle her neck.
She giggled and moved away from his lap. Then she scowled and said sternly. “Behave! I shall cut the meat for you.” She turned to take the dish and put it on her lap, before cutting tiny morsels of food and then began to feed him.
He was delighted that she did not go too far away. He had his hands around her waist as he partook of the most wonderful meal he had ever had at Longbourn. With the close proximity of his beloved, every nibble tasted exceptionally delicious and every sip of wine was a sensory enjoyment.
He had a small piece of bread and then nibbled her adorable earlobe which was just inches away from him. She squirmed and moved away from him, nearly falling off the edge of the bed. He tightened his hold of her waist and pulled her back. She was once again sitting on his lap.
As she tried to wiggle to get back onto the bed, she felt his arousal springing up.
Her eyes widened as she opened her mouth to ask, “What have you got…”
His face turned bright red and she closed her mouth. With hands over her blushing face, she sat rigidly still.
“Umh, perhaps it would be…better if you get off me now.” He stammered.
She put the dish down on the side table heavily and then hurriedly scrambled off of his lap.
Not fast enough for Darcy, for when she moved her buttocks away, she accidentally rubbed against his manhood. He nearly came in that instant.
When she was murmuring about getting the tray back to the kitchen, a loud commotion was heard downstairs.
“Lady Catherine de Bourgh!” Hill’s loud announcement was heard even upstairs.
A sense of consternation welled in Darcy’s mind. How did his aunt find her way here? It was still early afternoon. She must have left Rosings early this morning. Damn! Bingley would have missed meeting her. “Elizabeth, please get Winston here for me. I need to get dressed and see to my aunt.”
“But your leg is hurt.”
“He can help me down. My aunt is probably here to see me.”
She agreed reluctantly and went downstairs. As Darcy waited upstairs, he could hear raised voices: “trifle”, “scandalous falsehood”, “contradicted”. But Winston was no where to be found.
Darcy stood up from the bed and grabbed a robe nearby. He would not be able to properly attire himself without the help of his valet. This would have to do. As he dragged himself along the corridor and down the stairs by leaning on the walls, he could hear the argument more clearly. It was between his aunt and his fiancée.
“Because honour, decorum, prudence, nay, interest, forbid it. Yes, Miss Bennet, interest; for do not expect to be noticed by his family or friends, if you wilfully act against the inclinations of all. You will be censured, slighted, and despised, by everyone connected with him. Your alliance will be a disgrace; your name will never even be mentioned by any of us.” Lady Catherine exclaimed.
Her aunt had cornered Elizabeth at the bottom of the stairs. Mrs. Bennet and Miss Bennet were looking on from inside the parlour, trying to stop Lady Catherine speech but they could not come to Elizabeth’s side. No wonder Winston was not called.
“You have said quite enough, Madam!” Darcy addressed his aunt. He could see that Elizabeth had high colour on her cheeks and her eyes were flashing with anger.
“What has happened to you, nephew?” Lady Catherine asked. “Did the Bennets injure you, in order to keep you here?”
The Bennets gasped loudly. Darcy gritted his teeth and explained. “I had a run in with a thief and Miss Elizabeth found me. I am indebted to them.”
“That sounds all too convenient. My parson sent me an express, detailing the lack of propriety of the lady. She is tempting you away from your duty. I demand that you announce your engagement to Anne now!”
“I was never engaged to Anne and I never shall.”
“How can you abandon the keen wishes of your mother and me? The engagement was agreed when you were both in the cradle.” Lady Catherine exclaimed.
“Mother did not mention this agreement to me. In fact I have been promised to Miss Elizabeth these past twenty years.”
“What nonsense are you talking about?”
“Mr. Bennet saved Mother and my life during a fire some twenty years ago and Father had promised my future to Miss Elizabeth since then. Not only that, I had the good fortune of winning her affection and her own father’s blessing. Miss Elizabeth and I will be married, soon.”
Elizabeth walked up the last step to help Darcy down. She held onto his arms. “Yes, as soon as Fitzwilliam recovers!” She tilted her head and added.
Darcy was surprised by her change of mind, but he was not unhappy. He gave her a smile and a squeeze of her hand.
Lady Catherine stomped her walking stick on the floor to draw his attention. “George Darcy never told me this. I am sure Lady Anne did not know about this either. I have never heard her talking about this. I demand to see the proof and I shall ask Lord Matlock to decide over the matter.”
“There is nothing to decide. Father left me a letter in his Will, detailing the pledge. I have been engaged to Miss Elizabeth Bennet since she was a baby. Our engagement will be published soon. I shall not allow you to interfere with my personal affairs.”
“Obstinate, headstrong man! I am ashamed of you! Is this your gratitude for my attentions to you these past years? You refuse, then, to oblige me. You are determined to throw away your duty, honour, and gratitude for this girl with no connection and wealth. I shall know how to act. Do not imagine, Fitzwilliam, that I shall allow our family’s name to be tarnished. I take no leave of any of you. I am most seriously displeased.” With that parting line, Lady Catherine walked out of Longbourn and ascended her grand carriage further mumbling more about the shades of Pemberley being polluted.
Chapter 10
Darcy breathed out a sigh of relief and frustration. He caressed Elizabeth’s hand one more time before bowing solemnly to Mrs. and Miss Bennet. “I am sorry for the crude behaviour of my aunt. And for her abusive language against Miss Elizabeth and your family.”
“Come Fitzwilliam,” Mr. Bennet, having heard the commotion from his library had just stepped forward to see the retreating Lady Catherine as he slapped Darcy on the shoulder. “You are not going to be missish, I hope, about this. For what do we live, but to make sport for our neighbours and family, and laugh at them in our turn? Now what is this talk about getting married when you recover? Have you two taken some liberties?”
Darcy was caught off guard. His mind was still reeling from Lady Catherine’s loud voice. And then there were the worries about the Bingley party. He murmured, “Umh…” And then his eyes were drawn to Elizabeth’s lips.
“Papa!” Elizabeth protested. Her face gained yet another shade of red. “Fitzwilliam!” She whispered her chastisement. Then she left Darcy side and pulled her sister into the parlour. “Mr. Darcy, I shall send for Winston to assist you upstairs. You are not FIT to be seen!”
“Umh, are we to be married next week or not?” Darcy asked in a confused manner, at the retreating figure of his fiancée.
“Well, well, ladies like to change their mind,” Mr. Bennet said. “You had better take some rest now. I shall send her to bring you a tray of dinner tonight. You can work on her then.”
Darcy felt hot and flustered suddenly, remembering the light refreshment on bed just now. Did Mr. Bennet know about their transgression or was he acting like Mrs. Bennet, to ensure a wedding would occur soon? “But do I not need to wait for Colonel Foster and the magistrate?”
“I shall send them upstairs when they arrive. As Lizzy said, you are not fit to hobble around downstairs.”
“Perhaps I should apologise to Miss Bennet first before I go up.”
“Jane? Why?”
“Mr. Bingley asked me to apologise to her. Miss Bingley and he have some urgent business. He said he was sorry he did not stay long this morning and he would not be able to visit her, I mean, the family in the next few days.”
“Ah, the issue relating to the removal of Mr. Collins…” Mr. Bennet said.
Darcy’s eyes widened. “You knew? Umh, did…Elizabeth…the two eldest Miss Bennets know too?”
Mr. Bennet shook his head. “Hill heard from a maid and told me about it. I asked her to rein in the waggling tongues downstairs.”
“Charles is very upset about the whole situation. I fear he does not feel that his family is worthy of Miss Bennet.”
“Young man with a sensitive soul.” Mr. Bennet shook his head again. “I shall tell Jane about his apology. But it is up to him to come back and talk to my daughter. I am not boasting about my daughter. Jane has the kindest heart. I think she will be a good person to help Mr. Bingley through this trial.”
“I have told Charles similar words. I hope he does not give up on his own happiness.”
***
Colonel Foster and the magistrate arrived not long afterwards. They took a statement from Darcy about his run in with Wickham.
“Why is the man loitering around near Oakham Mount?” Mr. Bennet who was also present asked. “Has he deserted the militia already?”
“That weasel! I gave him a chance because he said he was only acting in self defence during the brawl in Meryton.” Foster said. “At dinner, your cousin told me more about Wickham’s past sin. I was going to confront the blackguard the next day. But that scoundrel…!”
“What did he do?” Mr. Bennet asked.
“Colonel Fitzwilliam came to the camp rather late. I went out with him and some of the boys to the tavern. When we returned in the early hours, we found Wickham trying to persuade…one of the wives to leave town with him. I bet he was drooling over the tiny bit of money the woman has!”
Mr. Bennet and Darcy looked at each other and speculated who the lady could be. They had a good guess but they did not want to offend the Colonel.
“We almost caught him, stealing the money,” Colonel Foster continued. “But he ran away. It was most unfortunate that, Mr. Darcy, you ran into him when he was most desperate. Luckily you were not seriously injured.”
Mr. Bennet said seriously, “I hope you will make sure Wickham does not hang around our village. I do not want any of my daughters hurt.”
“I will assign some men to patrol the area during the next few days,” Colonel Foster promised.
“And I shall send a detailed report to the neighbouring towns and London.” The magistrate added. “Hopefully that will get this lowlife arrested when he tries to sell your possession.”
Darcy nodded. He just wished the Bennet ladies were safe from Wickham.
After the visitors left, Darcy had a short rest. Dinner time, Winston walked into his room with one tray, and Elizabeth hard on his heels, with another. She instructed Winston to pull a table by Darcy’s bed where the food was laid down. A chair was also positioned near by. Once Winston took his leave, she sat down on the chair and folded her hands on her laps. Darcy got the message: No taking liberties from the lady this time.
“I hope you are well, Mr. Darcy.” No Fitzwilliam any more? Formality was the key.
“I am very well, Miss Bennet.”
“Father asked me to assist you with your dinner.”
“I am most grateful.”
She raised a spoonful of soup. Darcy leaned near, but it was too far away for him to reach. He moved closer to the edge of the bed and tried again. He managed to drink the soup, just barely. As he swayed a little on the edge, making her hand shake, some of the soup splashed onto the linen.
“Dear me!” She murmured and looked for something to wipe the spatter away.
“I have some handkerchiefs in my trunk.” He said and suddenly remembered something. His face turned red and added quickly. “No, do not open my trunk! I better ring Winston to bring in a cleaning cloth.”
She looked at his sudden change of mind with suspicion. “There is no need to bother Winston.” Then she walked purposefully toward his trunk.
Once she opened it, she started looking for a handkerchief. He saw that her face turned crimson as her hand touched one of his undergarments. She was about to withdraw from the search when she pulled out something.
“Why is my pillow in your trunk?” She asked. After examining it closer, she added “And it is stained.”
Darcy face turned bright red, like a red brick on a hot day. That was indeed her pillow because he noticed that there were the initials EB embroidered on it when he first slept on it. He had ruined it during his erotic dream, even though he tried to repair it. It was still not clean. “Was that your pillow?”
“It has my initials on it.”
“Why did you let me use it?”
She blushed and did not answer. “Why did you hide it in your trunk?”
“I am…sorry to have smudged it. As it is your prized possession, I…think I shall…bring it to London to clean it before returning it to you.” He stuttered.
She looked at him suspiciously “You cannot give it to our servant to clean it?”
He tried to divert the question. “The food will get cold. May I continue the dinner?”
She grabbed one of his neck clothes and the pillow. After she put the pillow on the chair, she rinsed the caveat with water and cleaned the stain on the bed linen clean. Oh, oh, she was going to take the pillow back to her room!
“Should you not sit on the bed to feed me?” He suggested. “We do not want more damage to the bed linen.”
She assessed him quietly for a minute, before sitting besides him once again and started feeding him the soup.
After the meal was almost over, she asked suddenly. “How did you dirty my pillow?”
He was caught off guard by her question and the fruit went down the wrong passage. His coughing fit brought her closer to him. She had abandoned the cutlery and rubbing his back to help him breathe.
“I am sorry, Fitzwilliam. Are you well?” She asked with concern. Her caring hands moved to smooth over his chest.
Her close proximity, the caressing hands and the reminder of the steamy dream sent Darcy’s mind to a dangerous location. Without care of the open door and possible discovery by her father, he grabbed her hands, stopped the rubbing motion, cranked his head and touched her lips, hard.
Her eyes widened, surprised by his sudden amorous gesture. He could see that her pupils dilated as he started sucking her tongue. After devouring her mouth for a long time, he finally released her to breathe. She had her eyes half-closed, her gorgeous bosom heaving hard. His eyes were drawn to her nipples which had turned hard and peaked under the thin muslin.
How he wanted to pull the sleeves of her dress down and suckle her twin peaks! In fact, he wished to do much more. He wanted to bury deep inside her, to bring her into a heavenly bliss and to conceive a babe with her. When he was about to lower his head to kiss her breasts, voices were heard from downstairs.
He knew he could not dishonour Mr. Bennet’s trust. Darcy must not compromise his fiancée. But he would need to persuade her to have the wedding soon.
Taking a deep breath, he whispered to her ears. “I was dreaming about you, I mean, how to teach you the ecstasy of our union, when I ruined your pillow. Do you want to hear more in detail?”
Her half-closed eyes blinked open. Her mouth opened in a lovely O. She was starting to nod before stopping herself. He was tempted, extremely tempted to thrust his tongue into her sweet entrance. But he had to uphold his gentleman behaviour. “If you do not want me to ruin more pillows, I think we should marry soon, very soon.”
Her mouth closed and the blush on her face turned into full red. She jumped from the bed, grabbed the ruined pillow and dashed out of his room, without a word. LOL how funny? Wonder what E is going to do with a “ruined pillow” LOL
***
The next morning, Elizabeth came alone with a tray of food to help Darcy to break his fast.
“Good morning, Mr. Darcy,” Her fine eyes sparkled and her scent fresh. “Papa permits me to help you again.”
“Good morning, Miss Bennet. That is very good of Mr. Bennet.”
As she fed him with bread and meat, she chatted casually. “Did you sleep well, sir?”
“Indeed I did, madam.”
“I hope no bad dreams invaded your peace.”
Darcy saw that coming. Her eyes rolled before she delivered that blow. He swallowed the meat and stroke the tip of the fork held out by her with his tongue. Waited for a few seconds before answering, “I did have a dream. It was not bad at all. Quite the contrary.”
She arched her eyebrow and urged him to continue silently. He denied her the pleasure. Instead he asked, “May I have a sip of the hot chocolate?”
She raised the cup to his lips and asked, “You do not want to go into more detail about your dream?”
His eyes were trained on hers as he drank. After a mouthful, he stopped and licked his lips. “Well, if you tell me why you allowed me to use your pillow, I shall be happy to enlighten you about my dreams.”
“Why, Sir! You are so eager to know about my thoughts that you are willing to exchange for them. Let me tell you, I am not interested to know about your dream or dreams. Now what can you say?”
Darcy shrugged his shoulders and said, “That is fine by me. For you cannot take away my pleasure of reliving the dreams anyway. They were deliciously…” he stopped and gazed at her, “satisfying.”
“Satisfying?” She laughed. “How can a dream be satisfying? I fear you must have dreamed of some strange food.”
“Not strange at all, mostly wonderful fruit that could fill my stomach and quench my thirst.”
“Such as?”
“Red and firm cherries.” He lowered his eyes as he spoke.
“I would think cherries would be too small and delicate for your taste.” She dismissed the idea quickly.
“I may be tall and huge, but I appreciate forms that are light and pleasing. In fact I was having a sumptuous dinner in my dream.”
Darcy thought back at the delicious dream. Elizabeth and he were having dinner at the grand dinning room in Pemberley. But there was no food on the table and he complained about the hunger.
She graciously undressed in front of him and laid down on the big long table in all her glory. “Come and feed on me,” She said huskily.
He sprang from the chair and climbed up on the table, starting to feed his hunger on her sultry lips, delectable neck, sweet nipples and hot womanhood. He was licking, laving and nibbling every inch of her skin for what seemed like endless hours.
But she was no blushing maiden either. When he was worshiping her hot sex, she palmed his manhood and admired it with her mouth. Her adorable tiny tongue brushed past his hot velvety rod, from base to tip, several times. When he was rubbing her folds, she swallowed his huge shaft into her mouth, slowly, inch by inch. Her tongue played a dancing tune on his tip.
He was nearly undone when she withdrew from him and screamed out loud, “I am hungry for you, fill me!”
He did not need more urging. Moving to lie on top of her, with eager fingers, he parted her thighs and positioned his thick shaft at her entrance. With one mighty thrust, he filled her tight, right to the hilt. She shivered and pressed against his manhood, devouring him.
He grabbed hold of her hips. As his mouth suckled her sweet cherry nipples, his rod jammed into her with constant rhythmic thrusts. The grand table shook underneath them. He filled her up, again and again, until they both reached their peak. She convulsed with him, squeezing his essence into her burning core.
That was quite a feast and he ruined his night gown and bed linen too.
Darcy woke from his musings and gazed at Elizabeth with such intensity of longing. He was hot and hungry for a real feast. When he darted a glance at the corridor, he could see Mrs. Hill approaching.
“An express for you, Sir!” She handed him the letter and left the room.
He drew his mood from the dream back and glanced at the writing. It was from Bingley’s. But why did he write from London?
He looked up and saw Elizabeth watching him with curious eyes.
“May I read the express in private?” He asked.
Her lips curled up in a disappointed pout. She rose from the chair and left the room with flashing eyes.
He tore opened the letter, roughly, with his bandaged hands. Bingley’s untidy writing filled the sheet.
Darcy,
We arrived at Hunsford around two o’clock yesterday. After we settled the injured parson at his home, I took Caroline to stay at an inn while Colonel Fitzwilliam went to Rosings to request a meeting on my behalf.
But his mission was unsuccessful. Lady Catherine de Bourgh had already left her estate early that morning after receiving an express the day before. Your cousin was unable to gain information as to where she has gone or how long she would be away.
We decided to stay in Kent for a day or two to wait for the ladyship.
Darcy read the first part of the letter, knowing that Bingley’s party would not be met with success. The beginning of Bingley’s writing was legible but then on the second part of the letter it turned bad, with many blots and broken sentences.
Since writing above, Darcy, something has occurred of a most unexpected nature. It relates to poor Caroline. My sister has disappeared. She took her maid, the carriage and my bag of money and ran away. Gone! Lord knows where?
Shortly after we started the journey from Hertfordshire, I gave her some coffee to cure her hangover. She slowly came back to her senses and normal self. I asked her if she knew what she did the night before. She did not remember.
When I started recounting the sordid detail, she remembered more and more. At first she insisted that she tied and beat you up. She protested vehemently that she had not mistaken Mr. Collins for you. But when we stopped at Bromley and she saw the injured pastor walking out of the other carriage in limping steps, she remembered her misdeed.
She was still acting delusional about covering up the whole thing. She begged me to turn the carriage round. She said she would send the servants to America or New South Wales, to make sure they would not talk about her lapse of judgement. When I told her enough time had past since then that the whole of Meryton would probably know all by now, she turned silent and pensive.
I should have been more observant. I should have known she would not accept her fate so easily. She would never be so compliant, to marry a mere clergyman who possesses little wealth.
When I had decided to travel with Colonel Fitzwilliam to Hunsford to discuss the delay due to Lady Catherine’s absence, Caroline took my belongings and left Kent. Colonel Fitzwilliam and I chased after her on horseback but she had over an hour head start of us. We traced her as far as Clapham but no further.
I was praying that she will return to Hurst’s residence at Grosvenor Square but that was not the case. I have visited all her friends and our relatives who are in town this morning but none of them have seen her.
I write to beg for your assistance. I am at my wit’s end. I have written a separate express to the Hursts’ and asked them to return. I need them to help in the search. Lady Susan and the two younger Miss Bennets are welcomed remain at Netherfield but I desperately hope you can come at once.
Please try once again to conceal the nature of my request. I am full of shame of my sister’s behaviour and do not wish Miss Bennet to learn of it at the moment.
Your humble friend,
Charles Bingley.
Darcy rushed through the second part of the express. With his injury, he wondered how he could assist Bingley in his search for his sister. But he did not want to let down his friend. Even if he could not physically help in the search, he could support Bingley emotionally.
But that meant leaving Elizabeth. He did not want to part with her, not for long. Perhaps her father could be agreeable to her going to London.
When he was about to ring Winston to request a meeting with Mr. Bennet, Mrs. Hill once again came up to his room and announced Lady Susan’s presence.
“Darcy, I heard you were injured. Are you well?” Lady Susan asked hurriedly.
“I am well, Susan. Thank you.”
“Who did this to you? Has the authority been informed?”
“I had a run in with Wickham at Oakham Mount. Yes, both the militia and the magistrate were informed.”
“That scoundrel! That is how he repays Uncle Darcy’s kindness?”
“He will have his punishment one day. But Susan, Bingley urgently needs the Hursts and me to go to London. Do you still want to invite Miss Mary and Miss Lydia to your townhouse or do you prefer to stay here? He said you are welcome to have the use of Netherfield.”
“What happened? Why such an urgency?”
“It is Bingley’s private matter.”
“Must be his despicable sister! Hmm, I think it is best I return to London. It would be my pleasure to invite all four Miss Bennets to my town house. What say you if I throw an engagement ball for Miss Elizabeth and you?”
“You know I do not like to dance! And I may be quite busy with Bingley.”
“You cannot neglect your fiancée for long. She may find a richer gentleman who loves to dance!”
“You jest! My Lizzy is not like that” Darcy looked at his cousin’s smug expression. She was going to cause trouble! “Fine, organise whatever party you want. I shall ask Mr. Bennet and Elizabeth about going to London. But I have to leave today.”
When the matter was raised with the Master of Longbourn, Mr. Bennet was happy to have the house all to himself and have his girls stay in London for some time. But Elizabeth declined Lady Susan’s invitation and would stay with her eldest sister in their uncle’s house in Cheapside. Mr. and Mrs. Hurst would leave with Darcy today and the rest of the party would leave the next day.
When Elizabeth saw him off in the carriage, she looked unhappy.
“I am sorry my love.” Darcy held her hands.
“I understand you promised Mr. Bingley not to reveal the nature of the business.”
“As I told Miss Bennet, Bingley has some urgent family business and he needs my help. He particularly wants to explain the details to her personally.”
“But he does not know that you are injured. How can you help him with your leg and hands bandaged?”
“Even though I cannot help in the search physically…” He stopped mid sentence.
“Search? Someone is missing…Miss Bingley is missing?”
“Elizabeth, please do not ask me any more. As I said even though I cannot help him physically; I want to offer him my support. It is good that your father permits you to go to London to shop for your wedding clothes. I can introduce Georgiana to you and we can still see each other often. It is just unfortunate that you cannot stay at my town house.”
“Perhaps that is a blessing.” She said archly. “…one will not be tempted to act rashly.”
“Me? Or you?” He raised her hands for a kiss.
“Me? I shall only be tempted by the best silk and feather. It is good that Lady Susan offers to host a ball for us.”
“I will be happier if we skip the ball and get straight to the wedding.”
“Father told me you wanted to get married before Christmas.”
“Yes, but he suggested later, so your younger sisters and mother would have more time to dedicate to their learning.”
“Yes, he told me too. What about on St. Valentine’s Day? I hope the crisis with Mr. Bingley will be resolve then and Jane will be in better spirit.”
“It is not as early as I hope but I shall accept that.” He lowered his head and touched her lips softly. “I must go now.”
“Take care, Fitzwilliam”
“You too, my Lizzy.”
To Chapter 11
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