“Forgive me, Miss Elizabeth, I was quite taken by my emotion. I should have been more proper in my behavior.” Darcy said, obviously upset with himself for being so forward with her.
Elizabeth would have none of it. “William, I am not in a mind to forgive you, for there is nothing to forgive. I responded to you in a way that felt natural and wonderful. I will not have anyone tell me that it is wrong.” And with those words, Elizabeth stepped on her toes to reach up and kiss Darcy on the lips, taking full advantage of his surprise.
It took nearly a quarter of an hour before either made an appearance in the house, and when they did, both had very swollen and red lips. Fortunately Mr Bennet could not see them and Mrs Bennet was not in the house, for there would have been a great deal more to contend with than just the teasing of Elizabeth’s sisters, Georgiana and Bingley.
~~ ** ~~ When Mr Bennet heard his daughter’s plans, he knew that she had not lost her compassion for others. Never the one to fret for herself in her youth, Elizabeth had given most of her pin money to others who were in need.
“Lizzy, my girl, I am pleased with your decision. I am not at all surprised with your choice to help others, as that has always been your way. Now, I can tell you a most perfect location. Purvis Lodge is vacant and in need of a purpose. I am sure that your Uncle Phillips can aid you in purchasing the property, can you not, Brother? It has at least a dozen large sleeping chambers, if memory serves me. Plenty of rooms to use as class rooms as well. I believe it has a fine kitchen, as it was renovated near ten years ago. And there is a dining hall that would accommodate a great many children.”
All of the Bennets became animated as they discussed this prospect. Darcy added his advice whenever he could, as did Georgiana. Mr Phillips knew that the previous owner’s heir lived in North America, and wished to be rid of the property, as it had been an albatross around his neck for several years. “If memory serves me, I believe the owner was asking eight and twenty thousand for the estate. I believe the stables and the servants’ quarters require improvement, and Mr Anderson did not wish to put the funds into the repairs, so he lowered the selling price. And with proper care of the lands, it is worth two thousand per annum. That would make the orphanage and school nearly self-sufficient.”
“I would add funds for the running of the school and the care of the children in the orphanage.” Elizabeth added. “It will require at least three maids, a cook, a housekeeper, a couple of men to help in the main building. And teachers, perhaps two or three, as there is a great deal for the children to learn. Perhaps we can even have masters come to work with children who show a great deal of talent for certain things, such as music or art. And we will need to have many supplies. Bedding, and towels, clothing and so much more will be needed. Oh, I should make a list.”
Everyone in the room began to laugh. “Lizzy, we do not even have the property purchased or anything else decided. Surely you can wait on making your list for supplies.” Jane said as she smiled.
“Oh, Jane, there will be much to do and I do not want the children to do without anything that they need. And I am so excited right now, I wish I could close my eyes, and when I open them, everything will magically appear.”
“It is such a pleasure to see you like this, Miss Elizabeth.” Darcy said, taking hold of her hand. “I have often thought of being involved in such a venture. My belief is that the future will be what we make of it by educating ourselves and those around us. Having more people, especially children, educated, we are securing our future to be brighter.”
Georgiana smiled. “Even though I disliked going to school, it had nothing to do with the education aspect. I only disliked being in London rather than Pemberley. If we had a school closer to Pemberley, I would love it.”
The discussion of the future school and orphanage continued for two hours and only ended due to dinner being served. Seeing Elizabeth so animated and alive was soothing to all around her who had been worried for her. Having something in which to channel her energy, kept her from dwelling on the emptiness and the void in her memory.
Mrs Phillips had joined the group for dinner, and was excited to give her opinion on matters. Mr Bennet listened to the life returning to Longbourn and smiled. The future was looking bright.
~~ ** ~~ Over the next fortnight, life at Longbourn became routine. Darcy, Georgiana, and Bingley came to Longbourn each morning and would remain the day. Plans for Purvis Lodge moved forward, with each person concentrating on one aspect of the project.
Darcy worked with Mr Phillips in the details of the purchase of the estate. They also worked on the selling of Bentley’s properties. Jane was in charge of ordering the kitchen supplies, including dishes and utensils that would be needed while Bingley hired men to build beds and other furniture. They determined that each of the bed chambers could comfortably fit six beds with a small wardrobe next to each.
Mary was in charge of making sure that there would be enough chairs for the dining room, as well as desks and chairs for the class rooms. She kept a list of what was needed and helped to keep Bingley from confusion.
The younger sisters were in charge of determining what other needs there would be, such as bedding and towels, even fabric to make clothes for the children and some items of comfort, such as dolls and toy soldiers and wooden horses.
Elizabeth saw to the ordering of supplies for the school rooms. Books, parchment, ink, pens, and all that would be needed to educate the children were taken into consideration and ordered.
The shops in Meryton were delighted with the news of the school and orphanage. They were overwhelmed with the orders that the Bennets and their friends brought them, and there would be some jobs for some of the citizens of the village and neighborhood.
Mrs Phillips was familiar with many of the families in the area, so Elizabeth asked her aunt to begin the search for a cook, maids, footmen, and teachers. They would hire outside the neighborhood if necessary, though Elizabeth was determined that the project would be a continual boost to the community she loved.
Mr Bennet was tasked with giving his opinions when the rest of the group came with questions. He also made sure that Kitty was able to keep watch over Lydia. The change in Kitty had been remarkable since she had been abducted with Jane.
~~~~~~~ ** ~~~~~~~
Chapter 17 Elizabeth had written faithfully to her mother each week, and Mrs Bennet had done the same in return. Through the letters, the two came to know each other better than ever before. Opening the latest letter from her mother, Elizabeth began reading.
My Dearest Lizzy, When I received your letter telling of your decision to invest your money in an orphanage and school, I knew that you had found the best place to channel your energy. You have always had a great passion for life and knowledge, it is only fitting that you share it with others.
I must tell you, I cannot be prouder of you. I told my cousin of your plans and we both are truly pleased to hear more each week. If only I had learned this lesson years ago, but we cannot turn back the hands of time. There is a reason for everything that happens, good or bad. We may not agree with it, or understand it, but there is an ultimate reason for everything. Perhaps through our struggle, we were meant to know each other better. And if you had not endured all that you have, this venture with the school and home for children would not be possible. I choose to believe that this was the reason you were put through such trials.
My cousin and I wish to do our share, so we are making clothes for the children. It has been a good many years since I have done so much sewing, so forgive the stitch work when the items arrive. I am becoming better with each new piece I make. See, this is doing me good as well.
My love for you continues to grow, my dear girl. Give your sisters a kiss each for me and bid your father good health as well. I am finding that I miss him, and hope one day I can make amends to him for what I have done.
Keep safe and I look forward to your next letter.
With all my love,
Your mother, FB Elizabeth wiped the tears from her eyes and smiled. To learn that her mother truly cared for her, that they could have a friendship as well as Mrs Bennet to be a real mother to her, Elizabeth’s heart swelled with joy.
Mr Bennet entered the drawing room where his daughter was sitting. “Lizzy, is that you, dear girl?”
“Yes, Papa. How could you tell it was me?” Elizabeth was curious, as her father was not able to see them clearly.
“Ah, but that is my secret, dearest. What good is a secret if everyone knows?”
“And what has brought you to be so chipper this day?” Elizabeth asked. “This house seems alive, in a way that it has not been in many, many years. It feels good to have everyone combining their efforts to do something for others. Your project has inspired us all.”
“When everything is done, it will bring so much to the neighborhood. To know that the children we aid will have a better future from having a home and being educated. Aunt Phillips has sent letters out throughout the county relating the project and we hope to be open to receive children in a month.”
“I have no doubts of it being ready, for you all have put so much effort into the project. Hearing Lydia last night as she described her latest triumph in preparations, rather than silly nonsense, was pure delight.”
“Seeing what we are trying to accomplish has made a difference in Lydia. I do not believe I have heard her once comment of men in red coats in nearly a fortnight.”
Mr Bennet laughed. “Yes, your youngest sister has had her heart set on marrying a young man in a red coat. Such a silly notion really, but her mind is working towards less selfish goals. Well, I will return to my study. If you need anything, come find me.”
“I will, Papa, and I thank you for all your sage advice.”
~~ ** ~~ As February was nearly over, between the preparations for not only the school and orphanage, but the wedding of Jane and Bingley, Longbourn became chaos.
Bingley received word from his eldest sister, Louisa Hurst, stating that since he had refused to allow Caroline to the wedding, she and her husband would remain in London with her sister rather than attend. Bingley was sad to not have his sister witness the wedding, but he had decided to stand firm on his decision to not allow Caroline to come to Netherfield and cause trouble.
Darcy and Elizabeth worked together each day, combining their talents and knowledge towards the project. Near the end of February, Darcy decided that Elizabeth should have a day away from the work.
He had arranged with Bingley’s staff to have a picnic prepared for them, and a lawn blanket was placed on the floor of the conservatory. Before leaving Longbourn, Darcy blindfolded Elizabeth, hoping to surprise her. He then drove them in the phaeton he borrowed. Leading her through Netherfield, he brought her to her favorite room of any house.
Once inside the conservatory, Darcy locked the door and led his beloved to the blanket. Lifting the blindfold from her eyes, a smile grew on his face as he heard Elizabeth gasp with joy.
“William, you did all of this for me? This is wonderful.” She exclaimed as she turned around. Before she realized what she was doing, she reached up on tiptoes and placed a kiss on Darcy’s lips. Little did she know that a simple kiss could release the passion that had been building inside the Master of Pemberley.
When Darcy finally released her lips, they were both breathless. “Forgive me, Miss Elizabeth. I know you do not remember, but we have shared a few kisses prior to your injuries.”
A blush grew on Elizabeth’s cheeks. “I must admit that it felt quite familiar. Is it wrong that I feel comfortable with you?” “Nothing could be more right, dearest. We haven’t spent as much time talking of how you are adjusting to being home again. Is it becoming easier for you?”
Elizabeth thought for a moment. “It is easier to adjust to the changes I see in my sisters, and even when I look in the mirror. The thought of having had a husband still seems far from reality. Learning all I have these past weeks has assisted me to adjust to the fact that I am not a girl any longer, it has helped me greatly to feel older and more mature.”
Darcy reached out his hand and caressed her cheek. “I must tell you how very proud I am of you. Your strength and resilience through all of the changes are inspiring. And you have brought out the good in all the rest of us. I am proud of you, Elizabeth Bennet.”
Looking in Darcy’s eyes, Elizabeth could not help but feel safe and secure in the depths of his blue eyes. And she felt the warmth of being wrapped in his love. “What was our relationship, when I stayed at your estate? I know myself well enough to believe I would never be dishonorable, but I can feel that there was something more between us than simple friendship. Would you please tell me about our relationship?”
Darcy stared at her hands as he took them in his own. “I know that I loved you even then, though we knew that so long as that man was alive, we would never be able to have more. It is my belief that you loved me as well, as you allowed me to share some tender moments with you. You seemed to calm, the longer that you were at Pemberley, as if you belonged there.”
“And now, where do we go from here?” Lifting both of her hands to his lips, Darcy kissed each several times. “I love you, more than words can ever describe. And I pray that I will one day win your heart and that you will consent to marry me. No other woman will do for me, for you have captured my heart.”
He was surprised when Elizabeth leaned her head to their clasped hands and placed kisses on his in return. “Fitzwilliam Darcy, you have stolen my heart. I am still trying to find me place in the world, and at times, I feel as if I am a fish out of water. You have been my anchor, keeping me from drifting away. I cannot remember ever being in love until I met you. Without you, I am certain I would feel empty. If you are willing to teach me what I need to know about being a wife, I would be honored to consent to marry you. That is, if you were proposing. There will never be another man who I can be so open with or bare my soul. You have wrapped my heart with your warmth and love and I never wish to lose that.”
Kneeling before her, Darcy still held on to her hands. “My dearest, loveliest, most precious Elizabeth, would you save my life and agree to make me the happiest of men by marrying me?
A giggle escaped as tears trickled down her cheeks. “I will marry you, William. I love you.” Before she could say another word, Darcy scooped her into his arms and twirled her around the conservatory, while placing dozens of feather light kisses on her face. Elizabeth broke into laughter at his behavior. “And to think, I was the one believing I was younger than I am.”
“I feel as if I am a young child being taken to a confectionary shop for the first time. You have given me such a wonderful gift, Elizabeth. I love you, I love you, oh, dearest Lizzy, I LOVE YOU!”
The couple spent the rest of the afternoon speaking of the future, and of the past, though only as it brought them pleasure. No one disturbed them until it neared dinner time and they made their way to Longbourn to join the others. Before setting down to eat, Darcy asked for Mr Bennet’s approval to marry Elizabeth. Though Mr Bennet was reluctant to lose his daughter again so soon, he comforted in the knowledge that she would be cherished by this man. He gave his blessings on the condition that they visited often, wrote weekly, and he could come to Pemberley whenever he chose to do so. These conditions were more than satisfactory to Darcy.
At dinner, when the news of the engagement was announced, everyone was thrilled with the news, though they had all wagered on when Darcy would finally propose. The closest bet to the date was made by Kitty, so she won two pounds.
Jane whispered in Bingley’s ear as the men prepared to separate from the ladies after dining. Bingley smiled in return and nodded his head. Jane then took hold of her sister’s arm and led Elizabeth to a sofa in the drawing room. “Lizzy, Charles and I have a perfect idea for your wedding. We would be honored to share our wedding day with you and Mr Darcy.”
“A double wedding?” Elizabeth asked. She thought f
or a moment before answering. “I will need to speak with William, but I find the idea to be perfect.”
“I wish to ask you something that may bring you pain.” Elizabeth watched her sister as Jane continued to speak. “Lizzy, what do you think of asking Papa if Mamma can be invited to the wedding? If it would bring you too much pain, I will never speak of it again.”
“No, Jane, I do not mind discussing Mamma. Her letters have made me believe that she is making a great effort to change her ways. She has apologized for the wrongs she has committed against me. It would only make sense to have Mamma at our weddings, especially since it may be the same day.”
“I know Papa will be against the idea, how should we approach him with our request?” Jane asked. “I will speak to him in the morning. I wish to let him know that I believe that Mamma has changed and that we wish for her to be here for our wedding day. If I choose my words right, I am sure we can convince Papa that it would be proper to allow her here.”
When the men returned, it was clear that Bingley had spoken of the plan to Darcy. With all in agreement, the announcement was made to the rest of the family, there would be a double wedding of the two eldest Bennet sisters to two very close friends.
~~ ** ~~
The following morning, Elizabeth knocked on her father’s study door. “Come in Elizabeth.” Mr Bennet called out.
“How did you know it was me, Papa?” Elizabeth said as she entered the room. “As I said before, I will not give away my secrets. Now, if I am not mistaken, you are here to convince me of allowing your mother to return to Longbourn, at least for your and Jane’s wedding.”
“Papa, I am becoming curious as to how you would know such a thing.” “That is simple, Lizzy. It is only natural for you to wish to have your mother here with you. And Jane would wish it even more. Convince me as to why you believe she has changed.”
The Conservatory of Hope Page 17