A small smile graced his features. It was a good sign, he reasoned, if she felt comfortable enough to make that request. And, on a more selfish note, he had wanted to take her to the theatre and show her around a little as well. “I would be pleased to meet your aunt and uncle.” Off her answering smile, he continued, “I am anxious to reconnect with a few people here in London as well, and would be pleased to introduce you to several of them. In fact, if we stayed through Saturday we could go to the theatre. Lord and Lady Matlock, my aunt and uncle, are eager to make your acquaintance.”
Elizabeth wondered what the wife of Fitzwilliam Darcy wore to the theatre. One thing she knew was that nothing she had was likely to be appropriate. She looked up at him feeling lost as to what to say next, and took a sip of her tea. He seemed equally lost for words, and she devoted herself to the meal instead. What can be said between new spouses when there is no affection?
*****
She spent all the morning in the library, absorbed in books. There was a pianoforte, she knew, in the east parlor, but she couldn’t bring herself to step outside of the one room she felt most comfortable in. She wondered what Mr. Darcy was doing. Working, no doubt. Or perhaps bemoaning this unfortunate marriage. She set her book down. All this idle time was not good for her mind. Elizabeth was really beginning to worry about what she would wear to the theatre. There had been no time to buy wedding-clothes, and the longer she thought about it, the more formed her idea became. It was better than sitting around doing nothing. It was London after all!
She asked the butler where she would find Mr. Darcy and was told he was in his study. She knocked on what she hoped would be the correct door and heard “enter” spoken loudly in his deep voice. She turned the knob nervously and stepped inside. He was sitting at his desk but stood when he saw it was her. His jacket was folded on the side chair and he was just in his waistcoat which was unbuttoned. She had never seen him dressed so casually. She eyed his broad shoulders and watched his cravat rise and fall with his breathing. He bowed and asked how she found Darcy House. She gave her glowing impression. They stood in silence for a spell and then Elizabeth lost her resolve and turned to leave. Perhaps it was not such a good idea after all.
“Elizabeth? Was there something you needed? I am really not that busy . . .”
She turned around and collected her nerves. “I was just wondering if . . . well when we go to the theatre . . . I must confess that I do not have anything grand enough for the occasion . . .”
He saw her discomfort and interrupted, “Perhaps I could show you around town and look at some of the shops. Perhaps we will find something you like. It is just under a week and I am sure they could fit a gown in that amount of time.” He stared at Elizabeth for a minute but she didn’t say anything. Certainly she knows she can ask for a new dress! He watched as her eyes still showed the anxiety of before. He thought maybe he should have been clearer.
A dressmaker would have to be paid handsomely to make a formal gown in less than a week. She was truly troubled. “I do not have my accounts ready,” she said hesitantly. She knew that she had some pin-money settled upon her, but could not remember the amount. The time before the wedding had been such a blur.
“No, no,” he said quickly. “I must clarify myself. Whatever you need, whatever you want, it is yours. As my wife you will be free to spend whatever you need. In fact, I will go with you today and we will get accounts set up in your name. I am ashamed I did not think of it myself. I have to admit I am not the most experienced man at dress shopping, but I could give you my input. Expense is not an issue. What was once mine is now ours.”
She couldn’t think of what to say! She thought of how Georgiana had claimed the servants felt him generous but she had not understood it until she saw his generosity firsthand. She was embarrassed to have asked for such a thing but truly, she had not brought anything appropriate. Feeling his generosity didn’t make the blow to her pride hurt any less.
He started buttoning his waistcoat and took his jacket off the chair, “Shall we?”
“Right now?” She was hardly prepared to go out into London.
“The week gets shorter as we wait. Come, London has a great deal to see.” He was ecstatic that he could spend a whole afternoon together with her. “Let me check on something first.”
Elizabeth glanced around his study as he stepped out and called to a servant, speaking quietly with him before he busied himself with his watch. Soon she saw Serafina come from what she thought was the servants’ quarters and addressed Mr. Darcy. Curiosity prompted her feet forward to hear the conversation but she tried to be discreet. What would he want with her maid? She listened closely as they spoke.
“Mrs. Darcy and I are going shopping for her wardrobe. I need to know what my wife might need.”
Serafina started discussing what she knew she had brought from Longbourn and then offered suggestions for three day dresses, two or three evening gowns, a ball gown, new evening gloves, a nightgown, a set of ballroom slippers, and a new brush. Elizabeth could not believe her ears! That would nearly double the wardrobe she had brought with her! She was sure Mr. Darcy would not buy all of that for her! And a nightgown?Surely Mr. Darcy would not take her shopping for a nightgown! She looked away trying to appear that she did not eavesdrop but she was mortified! She blinked back tears and retrieved her pelisse from the butler who looked at her with what appeared to be sympathy. She met his gaze boldly and thought, I do not want your sympathy! If Mr. Darcy felt his wife’s wardrobe is in need of replacement then she must accept it. She recommitted herself to the idea of being a good wife. And a wife of Fitzwilliam Darcy must look the part.
“Shall we? It sounds like we have a bit of shopping to do.” He offered his arm and when she placed her hand on his arm he placed his other hand on hers.
Her embarrassment seemed to ease as he placed his hand on hers. His very touch seemed to calm her; well, all but her heart. It was beating fast and she had to focus on controlling her breathing. He handed her in the carriage and sat across from her.
They must have gone through every store on Daggett Street, a street she and her aunt never shopped on because of the prices and quality were higher than what Elizabeth could afford. In each store he introduced her as his “new bride, Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy.” Would he ever get tired of such an introduction? It is like he is proud of it! Several shop owners greeted her with kind words, but she felt their eyes looking her up and down, evaluating who the lady was who finally caught Mr. Darcy in the parson’s mousetrap. She overheard Mr. Darcy on several occasions set up an account for her personal use at any time, insisting on “no limits.” She tried to express her gratitude several times, but he would not hear it. They found several dresses already made but had to peruse fabrics and patterns for the ball gown and the evening gowns. Each time they brought their packages into the carriage and headed to the next store the carriage got fuller. On the next stop, Elizabeth was measured and sized up right in front of Mr. Darcy. He sat with his legs stretched out in front of him as if he was actually enjoying shopping for women’s clothing.
He watched with amazement as the dressmakers stretched measuring tapes around her shoulders, arms, chest, waist and height. He was entranced in watching her form. He noticed she kept looking in his direction and each time would look away quickly and a brief blush would come to her face. Once when this happened he gave her a grin and she in turn returned the look with an impertinent lift of her eyebrow. He had only accompanied Georgiana a time or two before, and it had offered him plenty of that experience for his tastes. But this was entirely different. Rather than watching his sister vacillate between a sprigged or plain muslin, he was watching Elizabeth select whatever gowns she would need for their life together. She was building a future as Mrs. Darcy. He had to admit, he was actually enjoying it. He went through the list in his head of what Serafina had suggested. All that was left was the slippers, gloves, and nightgown. The slippers and gloves would easily be found at the m
illiner’s shop but he had no idea where to shop for woman’s nightwear. Would it even be appropriate for him to buy such a thing? He was certain she would neither need nor desire his help with that. But Serafina had said she needed it.
The shopkeeper interrupted his thoughts. “Mr. Darcy, I believe I can have the gown ready by Friday morning but I will need to do a fitting Thursday. If the other two gowns are not needed right away I can have them ready in two weeks.”
“Very well,” he said. It seemed that Elizabeth was immersed in a selection of ribbons, and he took the opportunity to privately ask a question of the shopkeeper. “Where might we find a lady’s nightgown?”
The shopkeeper smiled knowingly and said, “That kind of thing can only be found at Ellen’s. It is around the corner to the north off Hawthorne Street.”
He thanked her and then went to retrieve Elizabeth but then something the shopkeeper said tickled his brain . . . “that kind of thing . . .” Oh no! She thought I meant something far different from a simple nightdress! He turned quickly back to the shopkeeper and clarified himself. “I fear my wife is quite modest and prefers simple attire at night. Is there another shop that might be more appropriate?”
Her forehead furrowed up with confusion before she frowned slightly. “A new bride should shop at Ellen’s. But if you feel strongly about that, then try Everette’s Depot and Clothing.”
“And where might that be?”
“Next to Ellen’s.” Her frown deepened as Darcy only thanked her before leaving to collect Elizabeth.
This time when he handed her into the carriage the packages seemed to dominate his side of the carriage. He gestured at the seat next to her. “May I?” he asked, and she nodded her assent, slipping over towards the window, leaving plenty of space for him. “Thank you.” He cleared his throat. “There are only a few things left, and they should be easy to find.”
Elizabeth’s fears of shopping for a nightgown with Mr. Darcy resurfaced. Was he actually going to watch her shop for such a thing? The carriage went around the corner and stopped in front of a store called “Ellen’s.” When she peered at it, she realized with a flash that the windows were white-washed so one could not see what was inside. She had heard whispers of these sort of stores that sold scandalous clothing they couldn’t advertise in their window because of what they sold. Oh no! I have endured him watching me measured and try on dresses but I will not do this with Mr. Darcy! Luckily he spoke up.
“I have a few purchases to make across the street at the bookstore, but I am confident you will find what you need at this store.”
He handed her out of the carriage and took her arm, which she gave only with the greatest reluctance. How dare he assume he can take such liberties and bring me to such a shop!Her resolve to be a good wife was dwindling fast. He had promised he would not demand his rights as a husband until she was ready and she was definitely not ready. Just as she opened her mouth to protest, he passed the entrance to “Ellen’s” and headed for the next shop. She could see from its windows that it was a simple sort of shop. He held the door open to it and she sheepishly went in. Perhaps he is more trustworthy than I had just thought. He introduced her once again just as before and then he left, claiming he wanted to get the book he had been waiting for. It was most certainly an excuse, but one that she was all too willing to believe. She looked over at the shopkeeper.
The shopkeeper introduced herself to Elizabeth, “Miss Tamara, madam. What can I help you find?”
It took a minute to recover from the mingled outrage and embarrassment that she had just felt. She took a deep breath.
“A nightdress,” she said, and then paused before Tamara stepped towards the corner. “A dressing gown as well.” She was guided to the corner of the shop where a pile of silk gowns were neatly folded. The shopkeeper showed her one and Elizabeth just shook her head. Another one was unfolded and displayed. It was a lovely ivory silk, and the bodice was trimmed with Ile d’Aix lace. She reached her hand out to it and touched the fine, smooth fabric. She had never owned such a thing. It was what she imagined herself wearing on her wedding night if she married for love. But she didn’t have that kind of marriage. She shook her head. A simpler batiste gown was held up for her examination next. It was far less ornate, but the fabric was still good, and the neckline was gathered near the neck modestly. “This one will do.”
The shopkeeper started wrapping it up in brown paper before she looked up at Elizabeth. “Perhaps that second one too? I am sure Mr. Darcy would be pleased.”
Elizabeth truly loved the second silk one more, but when would she wear it? It was too fine for every day wear. She knew Mr. Darcy would not mind her buying two. He had been quite clear all day as he refused her protests time and time again. She looked around the store to make sure he hadn’t returned. “Perhaps I could see it again?” She was embarrassed for even thinking it, but there was a spark of hope that flickered into life. Perhaps one day he might desire her and then they might have a real marriage. Hope. It felt good for a change. Relishing the feeling, she followed Miss Tamara back to the corner. She held it up to her again. She decided to buy it simply because if offered her hope. “I think I shall take it as well. If you could wrap it together?” She didn’t want Mr. Darcy to see two packages.
Miss Tamara showed her the only dressing gowns she carried. There wasn’t anything that seemed to catch her eye and decided that her old robe would do for now. Perhaps Serafina could mend the torn ribbon that made it difficult to fasten in the front. She took her wrapped package and headed out the door. She found Mr. Darcy leaning against the carriage with a book. He looked up and bowed to her. She flushed upon meeting his eyes, thinking again about that second gown. Someday she might be able to wear such a thing and he would see it.
“I see you found something you needed. May I take it?” He reached for the package.
She pulled back instinctively. “No!” She was not about to let him touch her nightclothes! She then flushed deeper at the intensity of her reaction.For goodness sake! It is wrapped in paper!
“I was just offering to put it in the carriage.” Mr. Darcy flushed himself as he absentmindedly had reached for what was probably her nightclothes. “I apologize.”
They made a brief stop at the milliner’s and Elizabeth found a set of slippers and gloves quickly. Perhaps too quickly, she thought, selecting the first pair of embroidered slippers that were offered to her. Her heart was ready to be done shopping and ready to have Darcy out of her constant presence. She couldn’t quite say she wished to go home, because she couldn’t quite think of the Darcy house as home yet. All she knew was that her emotions were nothing but tumultuous with Darcy by her side. She moved from feeling nervous, to grateful, to embarrassed, to fearful, to feeling an element of pride as he introduced her, irritated, and then finally feeling her first glimpse of hope. But right now she was at the end of her emotional fortitude. She needed to be away from Mr. Darcy. Out of sight, out of mind. Or at least she hoped.
*****
During breakfast a few days later there was some voices heard in the vestibule before Mr. Taylor came in and announced, “Colonel Fitzwilliam, sir.”
Darcy let out a chuckle at the introduction. “Well, it sounds like we have our first visitor!”
Elizabeth looked curiously at Mr. Darcy. Who was their visitor that inspired such outright pleasure in her husband? A man entered— he was neither as handsome nor as tall as Darcy, but he had the most engaging grin. He openly and unashamedly eyed Elizabeth up and down. Who could he be? She stood to greet him.
“You must be Mrs. Darcy. Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam at your service.” He bowed, and then said, “I must confess, Mrs. Darcy, it does not surprise me that he picked you as his bride. If I know anything about Darcy, it is that his taste in beauty is impeccable!”
Elizabeth colored at the forward statement. Was he a friend? A relative? She watched as Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam gave each other hardy slaps on their backs before exchanging te
asing jests and pleasantries. He seemed to bring out the smiling eyes of Mr. Darcy.
Colonel Fitzwilliam turned to Elizabeth and said, “I hope the old man has not been too boorish for you. If you ever need a little lively company, just call on me. My cousin is far better-connected than I am, but I admit that I still cannot seem to find why others might prefer him!”
Cousin? “Well then, I shall call you Cousin!” She liked him already. It was a relief to know that not all of Darcy’s relations would look down upon the daughter of a country gentleman. And besides, Colonel Fitzwilliam was so engaging. He seemed to have captivated their morning parlor with his presence and jovial laugh.
“Oh, please no, call me Richard. Only Darcy calls me Cousin and knowing him he might just not share me with you! If you have not noticed, he is a very devoted friend, cousin, brother,” and while leaning towards Elizabeth and giving her a knowing smile said, “and I am sure husband.” He grinned back at Darcy, who had the grace to look flustered at the statement.
“Yes, well, Cousin, thank you for your flattery. I am sure Elizabeth will make up her own mind about me.” He briefly saddened at the thought that she probably had plenty of opinions about him already, and none of them were what he wished them to be. “Richard, you have come at a great time. Come, have some breakfast and catch me up on the things going around town.”
“Sorry chap, I just came to give you this.” He handed a letter to Darcy. “My mother would like to meet your new wife for tea today. And I must warn you that she insists you both accompany us all to the theatre Saturday.”
Darcy looked to Elizabeth for her preference but she gave no sign of an opinion. “We were planning to go to theatre Saturday anyway. If it acceptable to you, Elizabeth, I would love to accept Lady and Lord Matlock’s invitations.”
“As you wish, sir.” Elizabeth saw Darcy’s smile broaden and reach his eyes. There, that was the smile I like so much.
Colonel Fitzwilliam turned to leave, then turned back around, “Oh, Mrs. Darcy?”
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