My Beginning With Mr. Darcy [Book Two]

by Lauren King

She welcomes any kiss that William wants to bestow upon her, at any time. “I confess that I want a piece of me to be with you all the time, too. Do you really like the watch, darling?” Shyly, Elizabeth smiles contentedly at her handsome husband.

  “I really do like the watch, but I especially like your lock of hair. Thank you, dearest.” Darcy leans in to kiss her lips again. “Oh, there’s another engraving here.” Darcy is astoundingly touched by the sentiment engraved on both sides of the watch cover; this one behind the lock of hair is just as poignant and precious: ED loves FD to the end of time. After reading it, Darcy is completely and utterly filled with love for Elizabeth; there is no other way to feel about his wife – the love of his life. “I will love you for eternity, Lizzy.”

  Darcy makes fervent, passionate love to his wife on the first night of his twenty eight years of life. He thanks her for his birthday gifts and for her love. His life with Elizabeth is simply perfect, now. This has been such a wonderful birthday. It rivals his birthday parties that were thrown for him by his Mother when he was a boy. He remembers the joy that he and his parents had back then. Obviously, he misses his time with his parents, but Elizabeth is making his life perfect, now. His parents would have loved her – he is certain. This is the best birthday, ever! He has a loving, caring, kind, intelligent, beautiful wife; he could not ask for more. He cannot see himself with any other woman – ever. He will love Elizabeth to the end of time.

  WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25th

  Since Elizabeth does not mind staying in town longer, they have decided to stay another two weeks. Darcy knows how much Elizabeth likes to enjoy the theater thus he would like to attend a few performances with her. They have not yet been to the theater together so it should be very fun to enjoy an evening with Elizabeth watching a Shakespeare play that they both take pleasure in. They can also visit some of the galleries that have just received new art work from the continent. Additionally, by leaving later, they can collect all of Elizabeth’s order from Mrs. Templeton’s instead of having it delivered to Pemberley costing more money.

  “Dearest, you look beautiful as usual.” Darcy kisses Elizabeth’s lips as he comes to her bedroom chambers to retrieve her so they can depart for the theater.

  “Thank you, darling. Your handsomeness goes without saying; however, I like to tell you how handsome you are.” Elizabeth smiles brightly as she encircles her hands around William’s neck. “I feel so blessed to have such an remarkable husband.” Elizabeth kisses his cheeks and then his lips, most adoringly. She still thrills in the fact that she can kiss William any time she wants without worrying about being too brazen. Such immense and intense elation it brings her to know the depth of his love and devotion for her.

  Darcy invited Jane and Morgan to join them at the theater this evening. He wanted Elizabeth to be comfortable and have someone else that she knew there instead of only him. She had told him that she would be fine as long as she was with him and had his love and support; she certainly has all that.

  The two couples are delighted to be at the theater together. Darcy and Elizabeth are eager to see William Shakespeare’s play ‘Macbeth’. Darcy wanted to take Elizabeth to see ‘Romeo and Juliet’, but he decided against it due to the possible reminder to Miss Juliet purely from its title. He does not want any bad reminders to intrude on their happiness. He is keen on forgetting about that entire incident involving Miss Juliet. What an ill-fated, regrettable mishap that was. It irritates him to remember it. Conceivably, when some more time has passed, then he will be less worried about suggesting that play to his wife. Elizabeth is a fair, understanding, mature person; she is not petty. She would not be continually annoyed by a coincidental name. He realizes that she is very possessive of him and can be quite jealous given the right circumstances; therefore, Darcy intends to never place her in that position again.

  Darcy and Elizabeth enter the theater lobby with Jane and Morgan right behind them; surprisingly, the theater is almost filled already. Darcy tells Elizabeth that the season has not begun yet, thus it is surprising to see this type of crowd this evening. He guides her through the maze of people, and, undoubtedly, he is greeted by several groups of people. When introducing his group, he is most contented to introduce his wife – Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy. Some people are surprised by his wife’s beauty, intelligence, and wit. They are also astonished with Darcy’s apparent love, bliss, and delight which are clearly shown on his face and demeanor. The, always, serious and taciturn Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy is radiating love and happiness with his wife by his side. He is doting and warm towards her to the envy of many single ladies present. They have never before seen Darcy so pleased and content with a lady. His genuine, bright smiles make him even more handsome than they remember, mere months ago. Joy is reflected in his beautiful blue eyes. His laughter is also a wondrous surprise to many ladies and gentlemen. Only people in Darcy’s inner circle have ever experienced his easiness and his outward enjoyment in public.

  His public persona has always brought on thoughts that he must be a fastidious, solemn gentleman of few words. No one in the Ton faults him for being arrogant due to his outstanding reputation, notable family connections, and significant wealth; they certainly understand the way of things. Darcy also recognizes that he possesses those three aspects; however, he is not abnormally arrogant about it. He simply behaves in a manner with which he was raised. He was never mean or deliberately unkind or ungentlemanly towards anyone inferior to him merely because they were lower than him. He treated everyone with whom he came in contact with due consideration.

  When he first met Elizabeth, he recognized that his estimation of Elizabeth’s relatives to be wrong; therefore, he went about to better his knowledge in regards to them so he could assure that they were good people with whom he could associate. When he learned that some of his preconceived perceptions were wrong, he adjusted them. That speaks of a reasonable man; Elizabeth concurs with him. Unfortunately, he was not wrong about Mrs. Bennet and Mrs. Denny. He still tries to differentiate between the good and the bad people who he encounters because he does not care to be deceived by anyone, in any class of society. It is what any sensible person should do.

  In reality, Darcy is rather charming and eloquent which many can attest to now that he is married. Everyone has either heard from others’ report or they can clearly see for themselves, now, that Darcy’s marriage is a love match. Indeed, his current actions as a married man could not impart any state other than love and happiness with his delightful wife. The young ladies here are obviously envious that they did not capture the much coveted title of Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy, but most of them try to take comfort in that their families are ‘wealthier’ than Elizabeth’s. Little do they know that Darcy could not care less about that; one would have to be within his inner circle to know his true feelings on the subject of what he wants in a wife. Since these young ladies will never be in such an intimate position with him, they are left to their denials and ignorance. Darcy never cared for their attentions in the past; he does not care for them now.

  The voice of the crowd becomes more hushed as some people come through the lobby. Darcy turns to the scene and sees the Marquess of Leeds and a young lady along with the Marquess of Birmingham and his wife walk the path that has been parted for the four of them. Darcy only has a few seconds to whisper to Elizabeth, “Lizzy, the Marquess of Leeds and the Marquess of Birmingham are approaching us.”

  Elizabeth instantly excuses herself from talking to Jane and Morgan; she firmly holds onto William’s arm as she turns to look at him lovingly. She does not know if Jane and Morgan will be introduced; therefore, she excuses herself from talking to them so that it will not be awkward if this will only be a quick greeting and introduction of William and her only. She does not want to assume anything; William will know the proper etiquette for greeting Peers. She will follow his lead.

  The Marquesses stop to greet Darcy when Darcy makes eye contact with Lord Leeds and Lord Birmingham. Everyone bows and curtsies as
indicated by their status. Afterwards, Darcy proudly introduces his wife and then he introduces Jane and Morgan to both Marquesses and their family.

  Elizabeth knows that she and William are favorably singled out with this acknowledgment by both Peers. She understands that the Darcy family is not titled but their distinguished name, connections, and wealth date back seven hundred years ago to King William II who granted the Darcys additional lands. Even though the Darcys were already landed gentry at the time, having been granted more land by the aristocracy solidified their prominence in their social ranking.

  With William’s considerable wealth and his impeccable reputation as a gentleman, he is highly considered a notable gentleman for many titled families with daughters of marriageable age. Elizabeth realizes the grandness of her accomplishment at achieving William’s heart albeit she did nothing to try to ‘secure’ him. She is blessed that their destinies have led them to each other and that their love will sustain them for all their days.

  “Congratulations on your marriage, Darcy, Mrs. Darcy. I wish you both great joy,” says Lord Leeds.

  “Congratulations, Darcy and Mrs. Darcy.” Lord Birmingham states cheerily.

  At the same time, both Darcy and Elizabeth reply, “Thank you, Lord Leeds. Thank you, Lord Birmingham.”

  “You look like you are well taken care of, Darcy.” Lord Leeds comments as he glances at Elizabeth with a polite smile and then nonchalantly looks back at Darcy. “Mrs. Darcy must be doing a fine job; I am glad to see it.”

  “Thank you, my Lord; Mrs. Darcy is an ideal wife.” Darcy responds confidently as he acknowledges Elizabeth with a fond look before turning back to Lord Leeds.

  “I can see the joy on your face already, Darcy.” Lord Birmingham chuckles as the lobby bell sounds to indicate that there is a quarter of an hour remaining before the play begins. “I wish you both a blissful marriage.”

  In unison, once again, both Darcy and Elizabeth reply, “Thank you, Lord Birmingham.”

  The Marquesses bid their farewells while Darcy and his group bow and curtsy before the Marquesses. The Marquesses leave the lobby for their box. All eyes and ears were discreetly paying attention to this illustrious group while they were exchanging salutations. Obviously, everyone noticed that the Marquesses seemed to approve of Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy – they were singled out with the Marquesses’ greeting. The Marquesses did not greet anyone else in the lobby. Yes, it was quite a distinction for Darcy to be singled out in such a manner.

  “Oh my goodness, Lizzy. I hope I curtsied well enough.” Jane professes excitedly as she holds one of Elizabeth’s hands. She has never met any Peers before Lord and Lady Matlock. These two Marquesses were able to quiet a lobby with their mere entrance. “Goodness, they were able to quiet all these people down. Do you know any dukes, William? I cannot imagine how quiet everyone would be if a duke walks in here.” Jane giggles along with Elizabeth.

  “As a matter of fact, I do know the Duke of Devonshire, and it would be complete silence, Jane.” Darcy chuckles as he smiles at Elizabeth when they walk towards their own box.

  Elizabeth knows that their box will be scrutinized even more this evening due to William’s new marital status and the greeting from the Marquesses. She will be observed, judged, and gossiped about. Well, she can only be herself. All four of them sit in the front row of William’s box. Elizabeth can see all the other boxes across from them and the stage clearly; she is excited to experience this with William. This briefly reminds her of the time she and her Uncle and Aunt sat with Mr. Allston in his box. Elizabeth had met Richard for the first time that evening when Georgiana greeted her during intermission. It feels so long ago with everything that has transpired; she is married to William who she thought did not like her at the time. Elizabeth giggles inwardly. She feels so loved and cherished by William that she cannot believe how providential it is to have him for a husband now.

  As the candle lights are dimmed in the theater and everyone starts to concentrate on the stage, Elizabeth turns towards William to give him a most affectionate smile as she squeezes and pulls his arm closer into herself. She hugs his arm and places her head on his shoulder while his hand rests on her lap. William leans in a little closer towards his wife so that she can rest against him any time she wants, and then he, slowly and gently, rubs her knees with his fingers. He is thrilled and delighted to have a loving and expressive wife with whom he can share his life. Being in love is such a magnificent part of life that he cannot see how he was actually thinking of forgoing being married or having a marriage of convenience just to produce an heir. To be here enjoying plays with Elizabeth, to love her, and to see her love for him is something he does not think he could have with any of the young ladies of the Ton to whom he had been introduced. He did not feel a genuine connection with any of them other than his Elizabeth. She is simply his ideal match; no one else will do.

  Elizabeth whispers, “I saw the entire Fitzwilliam family, darling; did you see them in their box?”

  “I was paying attention to my stunning wife only, thus I did not look over at their box.” Darcy playfully tweaks her nose and then asks, “Everyone is in attendance including Georgie?”

  “Yes, I saw Georgie with them. Did Richard know that we would be here this evening?”

  “I did not tell him because I did not think of the theater at the time. We can greet them at intermission.”

  Stepping inside the Matlock’s theater box, Darcy’s group was cheerfully greeted by the entire Fitzwilliam family and Georgiana. Everyone spoke merrily as they shared what they have been doing and what is to be expected for Elizabeth’s presentation at court. Lady Matlock says that they will need to get Elizabeth’s gown finished a few days before the presentation so they can further practice her walk and curtsy with it on. Elizabeth and Lady Matlock decide on a day to visit the seamstress that is famous for making presentation gowns in London. Elizabeth invites Georgiana to come also; she gleefully accepts.

  While Elizabeth chats with Georgiana and Jane, Elizabeth faintly hears Lady Matlock ask Sarah if she would like to join in on the shopping occasion for Elizabeth’s presentation gown. Sarah says that she does not think Elizabeth would like for her to come along; they do not really know each other, and she would not like to intrude. Lady Matlock responds by saying that Sarah will never know Elizabeth better if she does not make an effort.

  “Elizabeth, what time will you be coming by Matlock House or should we meet at Mrs. Robertson’s?” Lady Matlock asks casually.

  “I will come to Matlock House at ten o’clock; is that agreeable with you, Aunt Helen?” Elizabeth replies amiably.

  “That is fine. I have a question for you, Elizabeth,” Lady Matlock addresses Elizabeth directly. As Georgiana and Jane hear this, they subtly turn and step to the side to give Elizabeth and Lady Matlock some privacy.

  “Yes, Aunt Helen?”

  “Would you mind if Sarah came with us tomorrow for your presentation gown shopping?”

  “I do not mind if you would like for her to come with you, Aunt Helen.” Elizabeth answers straightforwardly but with no enthusiasm because she does not want to be around someone that does not care to be around her.

  “I know that you and she had some trouble at her wedding breakfast, but I think she is sorry for what she did. Given a chance, I think that she could be a friend to you. I have spoken tactfully with her to point out that she should be loyal to those who are deserving not to those who are self-serving even though they are family. I speculate that she would not do anything like that again. She knows full well that I will not tolerate any foolishness or scheming to hurt anyone in our families. Miss Juliet may be Sarah’s cousin but Miss Juliet was in the wrong for wanting to do what she did. Sarah should know right from wrong.” Lady Matlock smiles slightly and with understanding at Elizabeth. “I do not know all the details on her side, but everyone deserves a second chance, do you not think so?”

  “I do think that most people deserve a second chance, Au
nt Helen. I will never be rude or ignore her if she approaches me or if we are in each other’s presence even though I am the injured party in this situation. I will always conduct myself as befitting a proper lady. I am very simple, Aunt; I treat people how I would like to be treated in return.”

  “I am glad that you are a reasonable and a sensible person, Elizabeth. I would really like for all of you to get along; you all are cousins and should help and support each other. I know you are also kind, so you would never be cruel or inappropriate to her.”

  All the ladies continue to stand with each other chatting and taking refreshments for a couple of minutes before three more people enter the Matlock box – Mr. and Mrs. Barrington, and Miss Juliet. Well, well, well…this must be awkward for Sarah. Elizabeth can see that Mrs. Barrington and Miss Juliet are not as happy to see Elizabeth present, but Elizabeth could not care less.

  Lady Matlock introduces the Barringtons to Elizabeth, Jane, and Georgiana as Darcy casually moves to Elizabeth’s side and he greets them afterwards. He extends his arm out for Elizabeth, and she instinctively takes it while lovingly gazing up at him before turning back to attend to Lady Matlock’s conversation with the Barringtons. Elizabeth is the epitome of a lovely, proper wife. She smiles amiably as Miss Juliet is formally introduced. Elizabeth shows no signs of discomfort or uneasiness in this company. A moment later, Morgan also moves to join Darcy’s group and introductions, bows and curtsies are performed again.

  Elizabeth sees from her side view that Miss Juliet is quiet and crestfallen after Elizabeth was introduced as Mrs. Darcy. Elizabeth could not help but be excited and take pride in being Mrs. Darcy especially when their marriage is known as a love match. Elizabeth is equally joyous that he chose her over all the other young ladies these past ten years that he has been sought after.

  When Mr. Barrington moves over to where Lord Matlock is conversing with Andrew and Richard, Lady Matlock turns to Mrs. Barrington and Miss Juliet to ask them to sit with her at her seat to partake in some punch. She also includes Elizabeth, Jane, and Georgiana, but they decline saying that they had some already. Sarah encourages her aunt and cousin to sit – away from the Darcys. She does not want any awkwardness or misunderstandings to occur when she is trying to show Lady Matlock and Mrs. Darcy that she had no evil intentions in bringing her cousin over to talk with Mr. Darcy at her wedding breakfast. She would hate for her Mother-in-law to hold that against her.