Fate and Consequences

by Linda Wells

  Laughing, Elizabeth stroked back the hair from his brow. “And shall we require many lessons, my Will?”

  “Oh, undoubtedly!” He smiled at her with twinkling eyes. Their foreheads rested together, and their noses touched. “So, my love, what was that you were saying about Jane and Bingley?”

  “JANE.” Bingley grabbed her hand and pulled her into the empty parlour. The coaches were packed and they would be leaving for Pemberley in only a few minutes.

  “Charles, be careful, if Papa catches us again …” Bingley smiled and embraced her.

  “I know, but it will be two days before I can be sure of a private moment with you again! I am certain that we will have no opportunity at the inns, but I am aware of many secluded places in Pemberley …” He kissed her soundly and wiggled his eyebrows.

  Jane blushed. “You are a little boy, Charles Bingley!”

  Charles laughed. “I am a very big boy, I assure you, Miss Bennet.” He tilted his head and brushed her cheek with his fingers. Jane regarded him for a moment and looked down. He kissed her softly. “I may behave as a little boy sometimes, dear Jane, and I admit that I do not always do the right things and my inexperience shows, but I do believe that I am the man you need and want as your husband.” She looked up at him in surprise. “I am not a fool, Jane, just young and learning, and I want to do this all with you.”

  Jane nodded and smiled. “Thank you, Charles.” She peeked out the door and kissed him. He laughed with delight and let her go when they heard Mrs. Bennet’s call. “Come on, we must go!” She took his hand and pulled him down the hallway. Bingley smiled and wondered how Darcy ever survived his engagement.

  The family boarded the two coaches, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, Lydia, and Kitty in theirs; and Jane, Mary, and Bingley in the other. It was just after dawn and they were on their way. “I cannot wait to see Lizzy and Georgiana!” Mary said with a smile.

  “Have you no excitement over your brother, Mary?” Jane asked.

  “Oh, of course I want to see William, too!” She blushed. “He is becoming livelier according to Lizzy’s letters. She said they had a snow battle last week and she knocked his hat off five times before he finally just threw it away!”

  Bingley laughed. “I can not imagine this wonder that my friend has become, but I am delighted to hear of these tales. His last letter to me was so joyous; I admit that I wondered if he was truly the author. Your sister has worked a miracle on the man.”

  “My sister could make a statue smile.” Jane grinned. “Oh, I can not wait to see her. Do you truly hope to find an estate near Pemberley?”

  “Yes, I do. I have no desire to remain in Hertfordshire. The area has been irrevocably ruined for me. I cannot look at the people without remembering the disdain they showed for my future family. Would you not like to live near your sister?”

  “Oh yes, although, I will miss the rest of my family.” She smiled at Mary. “Have you decided to accept Lizzy’s invitation to spend the spring at Pemberley?”

  “I have. I want to take this opportunity to see what is beyond Hertfordshire, and I do not know that I would have been comfortable in London for the Season. I think that Georgiana is relieved that William does not want her to accompany them there. She is afraid to return. I think that we will have a wonderful time by ourselves.”

  “I doubt that Elizabeth and Darcy will remain long in town. They will visit the theatre and bookshops mostly, I think. After the presentation, I understand that they only plan a few dinners with his loyal friends, and Lord and Lady Matlock will hold a ball in their honour to expose them to greater society. Of course, we must hold some sort of affair.” Bingley smiled across the coach at Jane. “Beyond that … well, it depends on their reception. If I know Darcy, he will be back home by May.”

  “Do you think that is long enough to repair any damage?” Jane asked with interest.

  Bingley shrugged. “Who knows? It will be enough to let the ton get a good look at both of them, and hopefully there will be some other poor souls who will attract their interest. Truly, Darcy’s wealth and name alone would have done the trick; it is the addition of Elizabeth which will provide the challenge. I wonder if they will go to Rosings for Easter, Darcy does every other year.”

  “Have you heard from Miss Bingley? You have not mentioned her.”

  He shook his head. “That is because she only raises my ire. She requested funds for transportation to Bath for Christmas. I refused. She will remain in London. I believe that Louisa and Hurst will have her over for Christmas dinner, and then they will leave for their trip, and return for our wedding. Caroline is still unrepentant, and until I hear something sincere from her, I will continue with my plans. I think that she is still counting on me giving in. She is quite incorrect.”

  Mary studied her hands, thinking of scripture verses. “Are you sure that you should not be the first to offer forgiveness?”

  Bingley smiled. “I have thought of that, Mary, I truly have, but some people, my sister being one of them, would look at an offer of forgiveness as an opportunity to take advantage and not a chance to reform. I believe that she has not ever felt the sting of rebuke before, and … I do believe that she needs to feel it for some time. In this, she must find her way.”

  “Through reflection and prayer.” Mary nodded.

  “Hmmm. Mary, I admire your optimism, but you can not project your faith onto my sister.” He smiled kindly and she tilted her head, thinking that there was a great deal of truth in his statement.

  Jane broke the silence. “I look forward to meeting my Aunt Sarah.”

  “How does your father feel about this?”

  “He is excited and apprehensive, I think.”

  In the smaller carriage that travelled behind Bingley’s Mr. Bennet sat and studied his book, ignoring the noisy conversation of the ladies. “Well, I am looking forward to it! Imagine; a whole new set of relations! And they are quite wealthy are they not?” Lydia asked with excitement.

  “I know that they are quite comfortable, my dear, but it is not your place to point that out.” Mrs. Bennet calmly addressed her daughter and Mr. Bennet looked at her with admiration. Since her confrontation with Lady Catherine and the subsequent improvement in their relationship, she had allowed her flutterings to lessen and her sense to appear. Of course, the marriage and engagement of two of her daughters to wealthy men did not hurt either.

  “Thank you, Mrs. Bennet.” He smiled at her and turned to his daughters. “I am looking forward to seeing my sister as well. I hope that upon meeting us, she will not regret the reunion. I expect both of you to conduct yourselves with proper decorum.” He raised his brow.

  “And does that include Lizzy, Papa? What if she decides to race William again on those donkeys he bought her as a wedding gift?” Kitty giggled.

  They all laughed. “Whatever possessed him to do such a thing?” Mrs. Bennet wondered.

  “Oh Mama, do you not know? He fell in love with her when he saw a donkey tear her bonnet off in the street! He tried to find the exact same one, but he had to settle for the pair he bought.” Lydia giggled. “Lizzy said he stuck an old bonnet on one and a beaver on the other and had them waiting for her in the stable when he took her for a riding lesson!”

  “Your sister has certainly found a man full of boyish spirit.” Mr. Bennet smiled and shook his head, remembering the sombre man who stiffly told him that he was taught to never express any emotion. He missed his daughter’s presence in his life every day, but he did not for a moment regret giving her away to a man who treasured her so dearly. He looked upon his other girls and hoped they would find the same joy someday.

  He felt Mrs. Bennet lightly touch his hand. “It will be wonderful to see the children at play, will it not Mr. Bennet?”

  He laughed. “Indeed. I look forward to seeing them with their own.”

  “BACK AGAIN!” Lord Matlock shook the dusting of snow from his hat and shrugged out of his coat. “The house looks beautiful, Elizabeth!”


  She smiled and accepted the kiss he bestowed on her hand. “Thank you, Uncle Henry. Georgiana and I have had a grand time thinking of ways to decorate.”

  Lady Matlock gave her a hug. “It is lovely, my dear. Perhaps next year you might consider opening the house to tours?”

  “Oh my, that would take a great deal of planning!” Her eyes grew wide. “I would not know where to begin!”

  “Hmm. Well, we have done it for years, in honesty; I am rather pleased to be missing it this year!” She laughed.

  “And you expect me to be excited now?” Elizabeth smiled and turned to greet James, who was standing quietly by her side. “It is good to see you!”

  “And you, Elizabeth. You are still glowing with happiness. I assume that my cousin has not reverted to his dour self as yet.” He smiled warmly.

  “No sir, he has not, and it is my wifely duty to ensure that he never will.” She received his kiss on the hand and laughed at his gallant bow. James’ smile grew with the sound of her amusement.

  Richard walked straight up and kissed her cheek, then grinned at her. “You do glow Elizabeth! Where are my missing cousins?”

  She smiled at the two men. “Georgiana is occupied with Mrs. Annesley, and will join us for tea after you have refreshed yourselves. William is dealing with an emergency on the estate, but expects to be with us very soon.”

  “An emergency?” Lord Matlock turned a concerned eye to her.

  Nodding, her expression became serious. “One of the tenant families lost their home to a fire last night. Thankfully, nobody was injured, other than a few burns. William went to the scene as soon as he was informed, and is very relieved at the providential outcome. The loss of the home is sad, but the tragedy that was avoided has made everyone grateful. Fortunately, a tenant home on another part of the estate is empty, so William has directed the boys in the stable to help bring over supplies and move the family in. Many other tenants are donating belongings and William has given them some funds to buy whatever else they may have lost, to give them a start. They will rebuild in the spring.”

  Richard listened in admiration. “No wonder he has such success at Pemberley, he always cares for his people.”

  Elizabeth raised her brows. “Without those people’s efforts, Pemberley would not be the great estate it is.”

  “Something for you to remember, Son.” Lord Matlock reminded him.

  Elizabeth directed the family to their rooms and returned to the drawing room to make sure that all was ready for their guests. A maid was just stoking the fire and another brought in the tea service when Darcy arrived. “Mrs. Darcy, did I miss anything?” The two servants bobbed and quickly departed.

  “No, they are upstairs changing. How are the Hoyts?” She regarded his tired face with concern.

  He sighed and ran his hand through his hair then stared at the soot that coated his fingers. “They are devastated, but grateful to still be intact. They should be fine though, they already seem to have more than they owned before with the generosity of the neighbours.” He paused, and closed his eyes. “It could have been so much worse … my relief for such a fortunate outcome … I have not seen a fire at Pemberley since the one that claimed Danny’s family. He was there today, helping out. I think he looked worse than they did.” He shook his head and attempted to move away from the memory. “I am thinking of bringing him into the house.”

  She saw his effort and encouraged his thinking. “Would he like that?”

  “I do not see him being a messenger forever, especially if he wishes to marry Susie …”

  Elizabeth smiled. “You are matchmaking, Mr. Darcy?”

  He smiled at the sparkle that appeared in her eyes. “No, that is your position, my love. I am simply preparing for the inevitable.”

  “Perhaps you should ask him his preferences, maybe he would be happier in the stables, or perhaps he could become an aid to your steward.” She raised her brow.

  Growing thoughtful, he considered the suggestion. “Groom him for a greater position, you mean?”

  “Well, what could he be inside of the house? Do you see him as the butler?” Darcy tilted his head and smiled. She laughed. “I did not think so. And if Susie does marry him, I suppose I would need to find a new maid, she surely could not take on all of the duties for me and care for her husband as well.”

  Darcy sighed. “You, dearest, are very sensible. I will talk to him. I just feel that he should be rewarded for all that he has done for us.” He kissed her and laughed at the dirt he left on her nose. “I believe I should bathe.” He nudged her to face the mirror over the mantle to see her reflection, and she rolled her eyes and lightly hit his arm, then moaned at the fine cloud of soot that rose from him.

  “You! Out! Immediately!” She pushed him to the door.

  Darcy made to wrap his arms around her. “Come, my love, do you not wish for my embrace?” Elizabeth squealed and ran away. Darcy laughed and left the room, still chuckling as he climbed the stairs. He met Richard on the landing and his wide grin only inspired a wider one from his cousin. They shook hands and Darcy laughed to see the black paw that his cousin now possessed and continued on to his chambers. Richard stared at the dirt and sighing, returned to his own.

  That evening at dinner, the halls of Pemberley rang with laughter. Unrepentantly, Darcy sat next to his wife and held her hand, kissing it frequently and smiling warmly. Georgiana entertained her relatives with a recital. Elizabeth watched it all and hoped the easy atmosphere would continue when her family arrived. As if he was reading her mind, Darcy leaned over and whispered in her ear. “I have not a doubt in my mind that all will be well, my love. How could it not be? You are here.”

  “Thank you.” Elizabeth whispered with shining eyes. Darcy lifted her hand to his lips, his eyes just as bright, and whispered. “No, my love. Thank you.”

  Chapter 36

  “Oh my!” Jane craned her neck to catch another glimpse of Pemberley as their carriage left the top of the rise and descended back into the forest.

  Bingley grinned. “I have seen it so many times, I suppose that I am in some ways immune to the affect it has upon the first viewing. It is rather awe-inspiring.” He leaned across the carriage. “I am afraid, Jane; that whatever we purchase will not be nearly as impressive.”

  Jane touched his hand. “When have I ever proclaimed a desire to live in a palace, Mr. Bingley?”

  He laughed and sat back. “Never, thankfully.”

  Mary’s eyes were wide with anticipation. “To be the mistress of all this would be something.” She smiled at Jane. “And to think our sister won the position!”

  “Won it is a good description, I think!”

  “Oh Mr. Bennet!” Mrs. Bennet stared at him. “I never really understood just how rich Mr. Darcy was until this moment!”

  “Neither did I. He told me his income, but numbers on a page do not translate to the reality that is before us.” He met her eyes. “Our Lizzy is a grand lady indeed.”

  “She must be frightened to death!” Kitty whispered.

  “Lizzy? Scared?” Lydia snorted. “After she took on Wickless?”

  “Lydia! Where did you hear such talk?!” Mrs. Bennet scolded.

  She shrugged. “That is what I heard the grooms call him.”

  “No more gossip, young woman. You saw how hurtful it is. I will not tolerate it. Do you understand me?” Mr. Bennet glowered at her.

  “Yes, Papa.” Lydia sighed and looked around at the endless trees. “There is nothing here. I think that when I marry, I must live in a town. I do not think that I would be happy with nothing but trees to look upon.”

  “Well my dear, I hope that your wish will be fulfilled someday.” Mrs. Bennet nodded her head, and wondered if she could persuade Jane to take her to town in the spring, since Elizabeth had already said that she would not.

  The carriages arrived and soon the passengers were inside and receiving the overwhelming attention of the servants. Elizabeth and Darcy waited to greet them, a
s the cacophony of exclamations by the ladies filled the air. Mrs. Bennet was blushing profusely with Darcy’s kiss on her cheek. She patted his face. “You just grow more handsome every time I see you, William.”

  He smiled and offered her his arm. “Thank you, Mother.” He shot a look and a wink at Elizabeth who suppressed a laugh and kissed her father.

  “How was the journey?”

  “Long, cold, noisy, and thankfully over.” He kissed her cheek and held out his arm. “This is quite the little cottage you live in, my dear.”

  “Yes, William’s family has done well with what little they have.” Her eyes twinkled. “I shall take you to your rooms, and then you can join us all before dinner.” She smiled at Bingley. “Charles, since you know your way around, I am counting on you to help direct everyone to the yellow drawing room.”

  “It will be my pleasure. I assume that I am in my usual chambers?”

  Darcy was at the first landing and was about to continue to the living quarters when he turned to his friend. “Ah, no Bingley, my cousin beat you to them, but Elizabeth has selected a place especially suited to you.”

  Bingley looked at him in confusion and followed the family upstairs. Darcy paused at the first door in the guest wing. “This is yours, Bingley.”

  He opened the door and looked in; it was a finely appointed room, decorated in masculine colours. He looked back at Darcy with a question in his eyes, and then heard Elizabeth’s voice.