From Pemberley With Love

by Claire J Russell

  Bingley paced around his home, worried. Why did Jane not respond to his letter?

  His sisters told him when they returned that Jane would visit him soon with her aunt. Yet, not a word from her and no still no visit.

  He thought damn societal convention and rules. I should go over to see her.

  He said to his sisters "I am going to see her. I’m going to go over there."

  The sisters mentioned it would be best for him to wait and not visit Jane.

  “Must I must see her, what was I thinking? I should have gone to her myself, rather than send a letter,” Mr. Bingley wondered.

  Just then, Darcy stormed into the Bingleys home, hurriedly, and reported, “I’ve heard some news.” He stopped and cast a somber glance at the floor. “It seems there has been a fire at Longbourn.”

  The Bingley sisters scoffed. Caroline feigned concern, “How sad. Well, we can’t go over there at this time. Besides, Lady Catherine will be visiting us. She has more pressing matters to discuss with us all.”

  On the other hand, Bingley looked worried, bringing a fist to his chin. He asked, “A fire at Longbourn? Is everyone okay? Did Jane make it back? Pray do tell is my darling Jane in Longbourn?”

  Darcy met Bingley’s eyes, “I can assure you Jane is okay, but if we leave now, we can get there at a decent time. I want to make sure...” He gulped, “Elizabeth Bennet is okay.”

  Caroline scoffed and rolled her eyes, “Elizabeth again? Goodness Darcy.”

  At that moment Bingley sensed Caroline still had unresolved feelings for Darcy.

  He said, “Louisa, would you join me in the study for a moment?” Louisa nodded as she rose to her feet and followed out of the room with Bingley, leaving Caroline and Darcy alone in the chamber.

  Darcy’s chest rose and fell with his breathing. Taking advantage of the situation, Caroline cast a look at him, willing his eyes to meet hers. He turned and looked at her, “Are you alright?”

  “Yes,” she sighed and looked around the room. “, I meant to mention, Mr. Darcy.” Her eyes fell back on Darcy. “I have feelings.”

  “Feelings?” Darcy inquired.

  “Yes. Feelings for you, Mr. Darcy,” she began. “I know a woman should not be so forward, but I cannot help it. I have fallen for you, and considering our secret past, I hope you feel the same way, too.”

  “Our secret past,” Darcy said, rubbing his chin.

  “I still long for that time. Oh, Mr. Darcy, can we please try again?” her eyes begged him along with her voice.

  Darcy chuckled with a hint of sarcasm, “You forget, Caroline, that you walked away from me when you received another proposal.”

  “Yes, and I was foolish to do so, Mr. Darcy. I now realize that it is you I love.” She crossed her arms, “I was young and stupid, but now I am a woman. And all I desire is you.”

  “While I must say I am flattered at your interest, but I am not interested in marrying you. My heart belongs to Elizabeth Bennet and no one else. The same way your brother’s heart belongs to Jane.” He pointed a finger in the air, “What I find interesting is that since your visit to the Gardiners, we haven’t heard a word from them or Jane.”

  “Well, it is no one’s fault that her parents did not raise her right.”

  She turned, expecting Darcy to walk to her, but instead, he remained on the same spot and informed her, “You must excuse me, madam. I must return to Longbourn with Bingley.” He briskly waltzed to the door and called out, “Bingley!”

  In seconds, Bingley appeared from the study, “Yes, Mr. Darcy?”

  “I believe we are ready to leave. The last thing we want is to embark on the trip too late.”

  “Yes, of course. Caroline, Louisa, will you be coming along, too?”

  Louisa declined, but Caroline, still desperate for Darcy’s affection, agreed. Darcy protested, “I don’t think that will be advisable.”

  Caroline retorted, “Oh it will, Mr. Darcy. I could stay at Netherfield while you two sort out whatever business you have in Longbourn.”

  Darcy reluctantly agreed after Bingley’s insistence.

  Caroline pulled Louisa aside and quietly whispered, “We must come up with another idea.”

  Louisa warned Caroline, “No, why don’t you give it a rest? He is never going to be with you.” she sighed exasperatedly before announcing her leave to everyone, “Please excuse me.”

  Louisa walked out the room leaving Caroline behind with Bingley and Darcy.

  Bingley chimed cheerily, “So it is settled! Caroline, you will ride with us. I will have the maids get your things. And, Darcy, this is going to be a great visit. We will help the Bennets in whatever way we can, and then I will propose to Jane.”

  Caroline forced a smile. She hoped traveling with both men would help Darcy change his mind, but she was sorely mistaken. Though she was sharing a carriage with them, Darcy ignored her the entire way to Longbourn.

  Chapter Twelve

  Jane stepped out the carriage, walked into Longbourn and hugged her father, “Oh, Papa. I am so sorry to hear what happened.”

  “It is alright Jane, at least we have each other and that is what family is all about,” Mr. Bennet mused trying his best to stay strong considering the dire circumstances. He said “It is good to have you back dear Jane. I have to attend to some matters.” He said. He left and made his way to his study.

  Jane’s eyes glanced at Lydia, noticing her sister cradling her belly. “Lydia, are you feeling well?”

  “Well, considering all that happened, dear sister, I am doing just fine.”

  “I must say you look rather pale and your stomach is...”

  “My stomach is filled with food,” Lydia snapped at her rudely.

  Elizabeth looked at Lydia and for the first time noticed her growing belly. She said, “Lydia if I didn’t know better I would say you look just the way mother did when she had you in her belly.”

  Jane gasped, “Lizzy you must not say such things, even in jest. Now is not the time. Lydia had something that did not agree with her that’s all. We are all Papa and Mama have now.”

  “How was London? Did Mr. Bingley pay you visit?”

  "His sisters paid a visit they gave me this letter," Jane remarked handing over the sad doctored letter from Mr. Bingley to her.

  Lizzy glanced at the message and remarked:

  "This letter looks doctored Jane. I read a lot of calligraphy books and can honestly say this is a perfect example of a forgery. Look at the way the writing curves here. Whoever did this must have done so in a hurry. Jane took a second look at the letter, and then she palmed her mouth to stop from screaming.

  Then Jane said " He was going to propose. Oh, Lizzy, he was going to propose."

  "Yes, it seems that way. I wonder why he didn't just ask himself?" Lizzy replied.

  "Who knows, oh dear Lizzy how could I have been a fool? It is evident that the sisters with their elitist and snobbish views did not want me anywhere near Mr. Bingley. But why?"

  "Who knows why people do the things they do. At least, you now know how he feels. Perhaps if he visits Longbourn again someday, he will propose to you."

  "I hope so Lizzy, oh God I hope so."

  Lizzy sighed and pulled Jane close.

  The sisters decided to keep whatever misgivings they had about anything to themselves. They were going support their father. Even Mrs. Bennet mentioned if they had to move away to a cottage somewhere, she would be fine with it. She said,

  “As long as we are together. I can’t imagine being without my family.”

  “Here are my prized Jewels, Mr. Bennet. Use it to hold off our debtors,” Mrs. Bennet said handing over her jewelry box to Mr. Bennet

  Touched by his wife’s offer, Mr. Bennet held onto the box and remarked “Hopefully my dear it would not come to this. But thank you dear, for your offer shows your pleasant heart.”

  The sisters agreed and gathered around their mother. Yes, they were a united family who would stick together through try
ing times.

  Chapter Thirteen

  Days later, Mr. Bennet, Darcy and Caroline arrived at Netherfield. Darcy proceeded to Longbourn immediately.

  Mr. Bennet asked to follow, but Mr. Darcy declined. He said he had to go alone. As soon as Mr. Darcy arrived at the Bennet’s home, he was ushered into the morning room by the footman.

  Mr. Bennet was not available, so he waited to meet with Mrs. Bennet. One of the other female servants alerted Mrs., Bennet of Mr. Darcy’s visit.

  “Madame, Mr. Darcy is here,” the lady said to Mrs. Bennet.

  At the sound of this favorable news, Mrs. Bennet smiled, “Good. I will receive him in the morning room. Please go ahead and prepare some tea for him.”

  “Yes, madam,” the servant obligingly turned on their heel and walked away.

  “Girls! Come on!” Mrs. Bennet called for her daughters, ready to talk to Darcy. “Mr. Darcy’s here.”

  Mrs. Bennet had questions about his relationship with Lydia, but she wasn’t going to ask in the presence of the other girls; she made a mental note to talk to him privately in the library.

  Moments later, Darcy walked into the room, looking confident and regal. He bowed his head as Mrs. Bennet curtsied, exchanging polite courtesies.

  “I am pleased you were able to make it today, Mr. Darcy. Especially considering these circumstances.”

  With sad eyes, Darcy looked at Mrs. Bennet and said, “I am sorry for the loss of your stables. Hopefully, it can be replaced.”

  Mrs. Bennet shrugged her shoulders, “Of course. Thank you, Mr. Darcy.” She took a deep breath before continuing, “However, there’s another matter that I would like to discuss.”

  Darcy arched an eyebrow, “Another matter, Madame?”

  “Yes, it has to do with someone’s heart,” she began. “Mr. Darcy, a matter has come to light, and it has to do with you.”

  Not sure what she was insinuating, he said, “I do not quite understand, madam.”

  “Oh, I’m sure you will soon, Mr. Darcy.”

  A moment later, Elizabeth walked into the room. “Mr. Darcy, so nice of you to visit.”

  He met her eyes, wondering if she had finally accepted his proposal, and said, “Yes, indeed, what a fine day to be here. If I may have a word with you, Elizabeth.” He glanced at her mother, feigning permission, “Mrs. Bennet?”

  Mrs. Bennet hissed, “You can talk with my daughter when I am done speaking with you, Mr. Darcy.”

  Confused by her surprising tone, Darcy stood in silence, unsure of how to respond.

  Meanwhile, Lydia entered the room, holding her stomach in a fit of giggles.

  Mrs. Bennet turned to Elizabeth, “Lizzy, now that Lydia’s here, why don’t you both go fetch me my favorite flowers?”

  Elizabeth’s eyebrows both arched instantly, “Favorite flowers, Mother? Are you well?”

  Lydia grinned, knowing what their mother was up to, so she nudged her sister, “Oh, yes, I know the perfect one. Come, Lizzy! You must see it!” And in the blink of an eye, Lydia rushed Elizabeth out of the chamber.

  When the girls were gone, Mrs. Bennet spoke frankly, “Usually, Mr. Darcy, I would’ve left such a delicate matter to my husband, but he will beat around the bush. I, on the other hand, will be direct.” She paused, seeing the wheels turning in Darcy’s head as he listened intently. “I have decided... to tell you that I want you to propose to my daughter, considering the situation before us.”

  Thinking she was referring to Elizabeth, Darcy smiled with relief, “That is why I am here. I’ve come to ask for Elizabeth’s answer to my proposal. I would be delighted to learn that she has accepted. I believe she will make a great mistress at Pemberley.”

  Mrs. Bennet laughed, “I’m sure you were expecting that before you decided to have relations with her sister.”

  Darcy winced, “Relations?”

  Mrs. Bennet clasped her hands together, “Yes, relations. It has come to my attention that you, Mr. Darcy, have had intimate relations with my daughter, Lydia, who is now carrying your child. I expect that you marry her right away. We will have to have the ceremony quickly before your discrepancy starts to show, and it will!”

  With clenched fists, Darcy looked at Mrs. Bennet in disbelief. In a firm voice, he confirmed, “I have done no such thing. That never happened. I can assure you.”

  Mrs. Bennet threw her hands in the air, “Well, the evidence is right there! She has your fabric, so how did she get it? Do not deny that you’ve had relations with her. You got my daughter pregnant, and for that reason you must marry her. It is the honorable thing to do, Mr. Darcy.”

  Taking a deep breath, Darcy continue to defend himself, “Madam, such accusations are most unwelcome. I traveled here for Elizabeth’s hand in marriage, not to answer to fictitious allegations.” He gritted his teeth, “I will prove that I have not had any relations with Lydia.”

  She cast a stern eye on him, “Are you saying that my daughter is lying, Mr. Darcy? Lydia has never lied to me. I raised her better than that. It was difficult for her to admit what had occurred, and she’s worried about becoming an embarrassment for womanhood. Pregnant before marriage. Oh, and she’s just too young, Mr. Darcy. She’s only eighteen, and you took advantage of her naivety.” Mrs. Bennet took a deep breath then continued, “While I do understand men’s urges of sin happen, one must be very careful with such matters in this society.”

  Feeling this conversation was over for him, Darcy bowed and shook his head. He glanced back up at her, “If there is nothing else to discuss, Mrs. Bennet, then I will be leaving.”

  As Darcy began advancing to the door, Mr. Bennet suddenly appeared and immediately extended his hand, “Ah, Mr. Darcy. Going already?”

  Darcy shifted his eyes left and right, “Yes, I’m afraid I am. Something has come up.”

  “Oh?” Mr. Bennet asked, glancing at his wife. “Matters? Something other than our barn burning to the ground?”

  Darcy forced his lips into a tight line, “I’m sorry. Please excuse me.” He politely brushed passed Mr. Bennet only to run into Elizabeth returning.

  No words were exchanged, only a silent gaze between them. Her eyes pleaded for an answer, but his eyes were filled with disdain. He shook his head in disappointment and continued walking away.

  Elizabeth chased Darcy and dragged him back into the room and asked, “Where is Mr. Darcy going? And what’s this I heard about Lydia?”

  Mr. Bennet’s eyes widened, “Lydia?”

  Mrs. Bennet slumped onto the sofa and began sobbing. She pointed an accusatory finger at Darcy, “He got my daughter pregnant, and now he’s refusing to marry her.”

  Elizabeth’s eyes joined her father’s, wide in shock, as she stared at her mother then back at Darcy. Tears formed in her eyes, “Oh no... Mr. Darcy? Lydia? No!” She could not bear it. Even though she hardly spoke with Darcy, and grown fond of Wickham, she never imagined Darcy would do such a thing.

  Instantly putting his hands on her shoulders, Darcy turned to Elizabeth and begged for someone to believe him, “On my honor, I did not do anything of the sort with your sister. I am not the father of her unborn child!”

  Unsure of what to believe, Elizabeth broke free and ran out of the room, palm over her face.

  Darcy helplessly watched as she ran away from him. He made a step forward when Mr. Bennet firmly grasped his arm, “Mr. Darcy, I’m afraid you will have to go through with the marriage.” Darcy turned to face him, and Mr. Bennet continued, “If the rumors are true, because I believe my daughter would not lie about it, then the wedding will have to take place as soon as possible. We will make haste for a quick ceremony. I expect you to take responsibility for your actions, Darcy.”

  In a huff, Darcy straightened himself out, “I will take my leave right now. Good day.” Before anyone could utter another word, Darcy stormed out of Longbourn, saddled his horse and rode off into the distance.

  With nothing more to discuss, everyone in the room dispersed. As Lydia stepped out, Elizabe
th stopped her in the hallway. Lizzy grabbed Lydia by the arm and exclaimed, “Lydia! Is it true? Are you, indeed, pregnant? With Mr. Darcy’s child?”

  Lydia shrugged, “Yes, it is true. I am carrying Mr. Darcy’s child.”

  “When did this happen? It’s not possible...” her grip tightened around Lydia’s arm.

  “Oh, but it is possible, dear sister,” Lydia retorted, pulling her arm away from Elizabeth’s grasp.

  Elizabeth’s eyes darted back and forth, “I can’t believe this.”

  Lydia folded her arms and laughed, “If you weren’t focused on yourself, dear sister, you would’ve listened. Now if you’ll excuse me, there are preparations to be made. I will soon be Mr. Darcy’s wife and the mistress of Pemberley.” And with that, Lydia strolled passed Elizabeth and into her chamber.

  Later that day, Wickham paid a visit to Longbourn. Elizabeth was having a conversation with her father when the footman announced his arrival.

  “I heard the news of your barn,” Wickham said with a glint in his eyes. “It is quite tragic.”

  Mr. Bennet nodded with a frown, “Yes, Mr. Wickham. Thank you. Please excuse me. I have business matters to address.” Mr. Bennet stepped out of the room, leaving Elizabeth with Wickham.

  Once they were alone, Wickham looked Elizabeth in the eyes and said, “I heard Mr. Darcy has gotten Lydia pregnant. That is unfortunate.”

  She nodded, “Yes.”

  Wickham stepped closer to her and ran a delicate finger down her face. He sighed, “I apologize if this not the right time to say this, but I have feelings for you. I am in love with you, Elizabeth.”

  Elizabeth looked deeply into his eyes, “I have feelings too, Mr. Wickham.”

  “Then perhaps you and I are meant to be,” Wickham said as he caressed her arm. Then suddenly he pulled her into his embrace.

  In the background, Lydia was watching, her eyes burning with a brewing fire. Wickham looked up, and their eyes met.

  In the next moment, a servant walked in, and Elizabeth promptly stepped out of Wickham’s arms. “Mrs. Bennet requests your presence in her chambers, ma’am,” the servant reported. Elizabeth lay a hand on Wickham’s arm and excused herself to follow out of the room.