My Beginning With Mr. Darcy - Book Two

by Lauren King

  Lady Matlock also purposely wants to direct the Barrington’s attention away from Elizabeth and Darcy to prevent any unease. They talk about who is in attendance and how they are enjoying the play thus far.

  After Miss Juliet’s group breaks away with Lady Matlock, Richard walks over to Elizabeth and teases her, “You did say you forgave me, right, Elizabeth?”

  “Yes, but I believe I may have forgiven you in haste.” Elizabeth feigns a disapproving expression to tease Richard.

  “I swear I did not know she was going to come over here.” Richard speedily and quietly informs Elizabeth.

  After giggling at Richard, Elizabeth pretends to be serious again before saying, “Really?” She knows that he is worried that seeing Miss Juliet here will bring back her memory of what he did; hence, bring back her ire. Elizabeth smiles brightly at William, and then they both chuckle while gazing at each other adoringly.

  Richard jokes most humorously. “I declare – why does he get your bright smile and laughter and I only get your ire when we both had to apologize?” Good naturedly, Richard raises his right hand to stop anyone from answering. “I know the answer – because he is the lucky husband. I am just a friend.” Richard pretends to be injured at the inequality, as Elizabeth giggles.

  “That is right, Richard; I am the very lucky, loving husband.” Darcy grins good-humouredly at Richard’s feigned discomfort.

  “You are a very good friend and a cousin – not just a friend, Richard.” Elizabeth displays her fun smile towards Richard, and he is finally satisfied.

  “Well, I am glad you two are smiling about it.” Darcy chortles at his wife’s and his cousin’s antics. Darcy pats his wife’s hand on his arm; he is sincerely very happy that incident did not cripple their relationship.

  Elizabeth was aware that Sarah paid attention to her, but she did not want their situation to come out in front of everyone here. Elizabeth noticed that Sarah was making an effort to listen and smile without looking conceited towards Elizabeth or Jane. Elizabeth has decided that if Sarah is civil and realizes what she did in regards to William and Miss Juliet, then Elizabeth will let bygones be bygones. She really does not want there to be awkwardness between them for the rest of their lives. The Darcy and Fitzwilliam cousins are close; hence, she would hate to have that spoiled.

  The theater bell rings and conversations slowly cease. Darcy and Elizabeth promptly look over at Lady Matlock to catch her attention so that they can farewell the group for the night. Elizabeth and Darcy do not make direct eye contact with Miss Juliet when they leave the Matlock box. Their bow and curtsy is a general one to all present.

  At home in the privacy of their bed chambers that night, Darcy earnestly asks, “Dearest, you truly are no longer upset at me about the incident at Andrew’s wedding breakfast?” Darcy strokes his wife’s curves as they lay on their sides facing each other.

  “I am not upset, darling. I know that you did not hurt me deliberately. I know that you were caught in a difficult position. As long as I know you love me, are devoted to me, and are faithful to me then I will not be upset.”

  “I love you with my entire heart, body, and soul, Lizzy – only you. My devotion and faithfulness are yours entirely.” Darcy caresses her breasts tenderly and affectionately as he leans in to take her nipple into his mouth.

  “As I love you, William.” Elizabeth lies back with William happily lying on top of her as she runs her hands through his soft locks. His mouth suckling her breasts and his hand stimulating her secret spot make her forget everything. Her soft moans escape her, and, soon, they become louder to delight and to excite William to no end.

  Husband and wife easily and lovingly make love before falling asleep in great contentment while in each other’s arms. They could not imagine a happier marriage for themselves.

  SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28th

  Jane and Morgan are accompanied by the Gardiner’s maid, Jenny, to Darcy House to share their happy news with the beloved Darcys.

  Elizabeth and Darcy meet Jane and Morgan in the sitting room. As soon as everyone greets each other, Jane’s bright smile could not be suppressed; Elizabeth could see that something is different with Jane today. With hands outstretched to her sister, they both move toward each other, and then Jane smiles brightly before exclaiming, “Lizzy, Mr. Morgan asked for my hand in marriage! We are engaged!” Both Jane and Elizabeth squeal in delight like little girls while hugging each other out of pure ecstatic joy.

  With great enthusiasm, Elizabeth congratulates Jane. “Congratulations, Jane, Mr. Morgan! I am so very happy for you both.” Elizabeth turns to Morgan to express her delight at the news. She sees Mr. Morgan’s bright smile and knows that he truly loves her sister. Jane deserves genuine happiness.

  “Morgan! Congratulations, chap!” Darcy stands closest to Morgan so the gentlemen shake hands vigorously as Darcy claps Morgan’s shoulder in camaraderie, and then he turns to Jane and exclaims, “Congratulations, Jane! I am very happy for you.” Darcy kisses the back of one of Jane’s hand.

  As a result, Jane holds William’s hand in both of hers and pats it fondly as a sister would do to a brother. “Thank you, William.” Jane responds merrily. Jane remembers that Georgiana has said that William is the best brother a sister could ask for; it is very true. The Bennet sisters are blessed to have William for a brother.

  As Elizabeth leads Jane to one sofa, the men go to a window to stand and talk. Darcy knows that Elizabeth would like to talk more and to express more of her joy for Jane; he purposely stands away from the ladies to give them some time together.

  “I knew you would also be very blissful in life with a loving husband. We both have our love match. Do you know how incredible that is, Jane?” Elizabeth keenly hugs Jane, again. She is extremely contented and joyous for Jane.

  “I do, Lizzy. I am just elated! This happiness is one of the most amazing feelings to experience. Everyone should be able to be this exultant, Lizzy.” Jane is profuse in her delight; the smile on her face does not wane the entire time she and Elizabeth talk. Her bliss has finally arrived.

  “You should be elated! Love is the best feeling in the world, Jane! I feel bad for the husbands and wives in those marriages of convenience who will not feel this exhilaration. Oh Jane, I am exhilarated for the both of us!” Elizabeth cannot help but grin widely.

  Jane speaks of how happy their Aunt and Uncle are for them. Obviously, Mr. Gardiner has given consent to the marriage, but Morgan will travel to Longbourn to ask for Mr. Bennet’s personal blessing. Mr. Gardiner has already sent an express to Longbourn to notify Mr. Bennet of the couple’s imminent arrival tomorrow afternoon to achieve that task. Morgan asks if Darcy and Elizabeth would like to make the trip with him and Jane. It would be a day trip only. Morgan is back in court session already so he cannot take many days off in a row, for now. In any case, he does not want to wait to get Mr. Bennet’s blessing.

  “Come with us, Lizzy, William? It will be fun. I would like to have you both with us.” Jane pleads cheerily. She wants to share this time with her sister – her best friend.

  Darcy is hesitant to have Elizabeth face her mother so soon after what had happened. “Would you like to make the trip, dearest?” Darcy and Elizabeth look at each other in understanding and in contemplation.

  “Would you, darling?” Elizabeth does not want William to be uncomfortable with this encounter, thus she would rather not go in order to prevent discomfort for him, but she does not mind either way. Both of them can deal with her Mother as needed for a couple of hours, especially if she is not rude to them. Seeing how much Jane wants them to go with her, Elizabeth is inclined to go to support her sister and to visit her Father, Mary, and Kitty.

  “I am fine with whatever you want to do, dearest. However, you know I will not hold my tongue if your Mother should expend any of her vitriol towards you.” The days of trying to be nice and respectful towards Mrs. Bennet are over. He will not allow anyone to offend his wife again – not even her relations.


  “I know, darling.” Elizabeth caresses William’s hand so he will not be too upset about her facing her Mother. There will be no avoiding seeing her. Hopefully it will be very minimal. They will have to stay for luncheon or tea but not for much more after that. She believes her Father will also curtail her Mother’s effusions for the sake of Mr. Morgan.

  Plans are made for both couples to leave the next morning for Longbourn.

  CHAPTER 11

  ****************

  SUNDAY, MARCH 1st

  “Welcome home, daughters!” Mr. Bennet expresses his pleasure, openly.

  Father, daughters, son-in-law, and sisters greet one another cheerfully – even the soon-to-be-son-in-law is jovial. The only person that is somewhat subdued is Mrs. Bennet. She still greets Jane and Morgan pleasantly, but that is where her delight ends. Mrs. Bennet makes a point to grasp onto Jane’s arm and gaily guide her into the house without as much as a greeting towards Elizabeth or Darcy. They do not notice much of Mrs. Bennet’s behavior because Mr. Bennet occupies their attention right from the beginning. Elizabeth and Darcy already discussed how they would handle Mrs. Bennet; they will not initiate any conversation with Mrs. Bennet and when conversation includes her, they will keep quiet. They just have to bear it for a couple of hours, for Jane.

  Everyone is led into the drawing room where Mary orders tea from Mrs. Hill while the two couples refresh themselves. After a cup of tea and some pleasantries, Morgan requests a private meeting with Mr. Bennet which is granted with alacrity. Ten minutes go by and Morgan is back by Jane’s side to let her know that her Father wishes to speak with her next. Darcy and Elizabeth both get up to go stand by the window that looks out at one side of the garden in order to avoid Mrs. Bennet. They hear her unrestrained and overflowing laughter and congratulations to Morgan. Another ten minutes pass; Jane and Mr. Bennet appear at the drawing room entrance with smiles on their faces.

  “I would like to gladly announce that I have given Mr. Morgan my blessing for him to marry my dear daughter, Jane. Congratulations to the both of them.” Squeals, laughter, and excitement are abounding.

  Mrs. Bennet’s squeals and cheers are even more effusive, indeed. “I knew you would marry a rich gentleman, Jane. I knew you would not be so very pretty for nothing.” Mrs. Bennet flutters her handkerchief as usual.

  Everyone present cringes, especially Jane and Elizabeth. Jane maintains her serene smile while Elizabeth closes her eyes briefly out of mortification and squeezes William’s arm that she has been holding. Elizabeth moves towards Jane to congratulate her but is surpassed by their Mother, thus Elizabeth stays back so that her Mother and sisters could have their share of joy with Jane’s betrothal.

  While holding one of Jane’s hands, Mrs. Bennet exclaims gleefully, “You are the prettiness girl for miles around; you are the reputed beauty of Hertfordshire so, certainly, you would have a worthy husband. Many men have wished for your returned attentions, but you are a good girl and now you have yourself a rich, generous, handsome husband.” Mrs. Bennet turns to Morgan and announces, “Mr. Morgan, I hope you know that you have been fortunate enough to attain the attentions of the most beautiful young lady in Hertfordshire. My Jane is the best girl, and she will make you a wonderful wife.”

  “Mama, please.” Jane pleads quietly as she tries to dissuade her Mother from continuing to praise her disproportionately. It is embarrassing to hear her Mother exaggerate about her. Jane wants to stop her Mother from embarrassing herself and her family further in Albert’s eyes, but she does not want to cause friction at this joyous moment.

  Mrs. Bennet insists, “It is true, Jane. Any gentleman would be lucky to have you for a wife even a gentleman with great estates, wealth, and family connections. Those gentlemen deserve you more than a witty, clever girl who thinks herself intelligent. Alas, some of those gentlemen are not wise or smart; therefore they will miss out on having such a beauty as yourself for a wife. Mr. Morgan is a smarter man than to settle for a sharp mouth in a wife. You are too kind and modest, but that is yet another two of your great virtues.” With smugness, Mrs. Bennet continues to pat Jane’s hand in approval.

  Mr. Bennet is not a fool; he knows when someone is making snide comments or is mocking. In this case, Mrs. Bennet is deriding Elizabeth and Darcy. He cannot believe his ears. Does she know that she is offending Morgan, Darcy, and Elizabeth all in one swoop? She has gotten more clever by insinuating just enough to be vague but also enough to be understood.

  Morgan frowns awkwardly but does not say anything; he is offended by Mrs. Bennet’s inferences. Is she trying to say that he is barely good enough to marry Jane? Is she insinuating that Darcy should have pursued Jane but was stupid not to? Good God! What kind of a mother says these things in front of her two daughters’ husband and betrothed? It sure sounds like Mrs. Bennet is trying to be unobtrusive, but she is failing, badly. Perhaps, these comments are deliberate?

  Mrs. Bennet charges on. “You deserve all the happiness in the world, Jane. You have always been the best daughter; anyone thinking they are better than you because they have a richer husband than you is plainly jealous of your great beauty and goodness. You are the best daughter a mother could have. You will not disregard your duties as a daughter and not help your sisters land a rich husband, too. I will need to write to my brother so he can host Mary and Kitty for a while now that you will be marrying soon. Then you and Mr. Morgan can show them around to his rich friends and hopefully they can attract those gentlemen enough into marriage.”

  Darcy clenches his jaw and glowers but controls his tongue from reacting to her so-called hidden reproach of him and his wife. The scowl on his face is noticeable by all; he is fuming, but he restrains himself from reacting because Elizabeth had begged him to let her handle her Mother. She does not want him to look like the bad person in anyone’s eyes, but Darcy does not care if he has to be bad in order to defend his beloved wife. However, with Mr. Bennet present, Darcy does not want to offend him and not give him a chance to correct his own wife. Only out of respect and understanding does Darcy keep quiet, but if Mr. Bennet does not do something promptly, Darcy will not allow Mrs. Bennet to utter even one more word against Elizabeth. He does not want anyone to mistake that he will not protect his wife from all who tries to harm her in anyway, whatsoever. Darcy takes a deep breath to calm himself and then stares at Mr. Bennet awaiting his action. He can feel Elizabeth squeezing his arm to soothe him.

  Unquestionably, Elizabeth is still embarrassed by her Mother. How can she not be? Just listen to her Mother’s supposed general praises of Jane that is laced with derisive insinuations towards Elizabeth and William. Did her Mother think that she would not recognize this affront? Her Mother could have easily ignored Elizabeth and William and just bask in the warmth of Jane’s happiness, but noooo…she has to insult them. When is it enough? Must she and William endure this indirect expression of hostility every time they are in her Mother’s company? Will she have to make an ultimatum for her family between her and her Mother before her Mother holds her ignorant tongue? Elizabeth has decided that her Mother simply just spews out whatever comes to her mind without taking into account her company and without care. That has always been her detriment, but even when she has been apprised and advised against doing such things, she continues to act however she wants. Conceivably, she may be deliberately doing this out of hatred.

  After a deep breath, Elizabeth voices her desire clearly. “Papa, I will not allow William to experience such antagonism from Mama. This is the absolute last time. I am thoroughly revolted, and aghast with her ignorant rebuffs of us. It is one thing for her to insult me, but it is quite another for her to insult my innocent husband. I know she is trying to hurt me through William. I will not allow it, Papa.” Elizabeth’s tone is composed but grave. Her expression is grim yet expressionless because she does not want this to become a screaming match. She has to slow her breathing so she can stay calm. She squeezes William’s hand for strength.

  “How da
re you speak of me that way, you awful, ungrateful girl!” Mrs. Bennet will not be suppressed.

  Simultaneously, Mr. Bennet emphasizes, “Mrs. Bennet!” Mr. Bennet’s controlled anger is noticeable.

  Instantly, Elizabeth feels William’s strong grip of her hand; William straightens his body and closes his eyes while taking a deep breath to control his anger. She knows that he is barely containable at this very moment. Hurriedly, Elizabeth glares at her Mother while declaring, “I will not tolerate you insulting my innocent husband ever again!”

  Elizabeth’s outburst stuns Mrs. Bennet into silence.

  Afterwards Elizabeth looks directly at Morgan as she says, “I am sorry that you had to witness this preposterous situation, Mr. Morgan. Please do not think all of us behave in the same appalling manner as the representation that you have just seen.”

  Morgan gives her an understanding nod and a sad expression without voicing his opinion on the matter. He would like to but thinks he should not at this point. He does not like Mrs. Bennet, at all; she is very offensive and not very smart.

  Quickly, Elizabeth ploughs through so William will not make his cutting remarks directly to her Mother. She will not let anyone say that William was ungentlemanly or ill-mannered; she entwines his left hand with her right hand to calm him. She decides to reveal what her Mother has always boasted about, but no one has wanted to insult her by telling her the truth.