by Kay Mares
“I cannot tell you how surprised we all were to hear of your engagement or perhaps I should say it is no surprise that a gentleman would be aware of your worth but the surprise comes from who you have chosen to wed.” Mr. Idle peers at Lizzy.
“I am not sure what you mean, Mr. Idle. I have accepted Mr. Darcy because I affect him and he affects me. It is that simple.” Lizzy returns with a soft smile.
“Come now, Miss Elizabeth, we have been neighbors all our lives as well as friends. I would not let you make a match with someone as cold and uncaring as Mr. Darcy. You and he do not have temperaments which would suit. I would regret to see you in an unhappy alliance; perhaps you think you must make such a move to save your family? Most know of the entailment upon your estate as told to us by your mother.” Mr. Idle asserts rather forcefully.
“Please Sir, I can assure you that I am not motivated by any mercenary means. I have accepted Mr. Darcy freely and of my own will!” Lizzy states vehemently. She finishes the dance in silence and at the end begins to make her way back to Darcy. He followed her dance with Mr. Idle, and because he trusts Lizzy completely, he had no concerns when the young man led her onto the floor. However, he noted Lizzy’s agitation, and he too was moving towards Lizzy’s last position after the dance ended. Unfortunately, he is blocked by more well-wishers and a crush of people between him and Lizzy. It is providential he did not witness Mr. Idle all but forcing Lizzy on the terrace for a private conversation because Darcy would have reacted most ungentlemanly.
“What is the meaning of this?” hisses Lizzy through gritted teeth. “You have no right to insist I accompany you out here! Whatever you wish to say to me can be said in the company of others.”
“I will get right to the point then, Miss Elizabeth. Whatever happened between you and Mr. Darcy means nothing to me. If the man has compromised you or made you feel obligated to accept his suit, or any other reason, I would offer you the protection of my name. Everyone knows him to be a proud disagreeable sort of man, not one I would imagine seeking a connection with you unless there was some sort of mischief involved. Tell me what he has done to make you accept him and I will take steps to ensure you will not enter into a marriage with such a cold, calculating man.” Mr. Idle’s chin is lifted in defiance.
“How dare you! How could you even infer let alone state that Mr. Darcy has been anything more than a gentleman of the highest order? You take on too much by proclaiming to know his nature; you are presumptuous and preposterous to think I would have any regard for a man like you who would disparage such a good and decent man as Mr. Darcy. Then to offer me protection! From you! I have never been as insulted as I am now and to think I once considered you a friend. You have also insulted the character of the best man I know by suggesting he would conduct himself in the manner as you just described. I have a better understanding of your character now, Mr. Idle, and I find it is not to my liking. And although you have no right to know my dearest concerns, I will state to you most emphatically I love Mr. Darcy wholly and completely as he does me and that is why I have accepted him!” Elizabeth moves backward to distance herself from Mr. Idle only to encounter the hard planes of Darcy’s chest. He made his way through the crowd and heard for himself Elizabeth’s defense of his character and her proclamation of their love. At first, he thought to intervene and warn Mr. Idle off, but as he saw Mr. Idle blanch and deflate under Elizabeth’s censure, he thought better of it. Mr. Idle becomes more alarmed as he sees the daunting Mr. Darcy come into view; he is no match for Darcy physically nor intellectually.
Mr. Idle scrambles around the pair without waiting to be addressed while Lizzy looks up into Darcy’s face; she is a little afraid she might see some anger or disappointment, so she is amazed when she notes the corner of his mouth turned up and mirth in his blue eyes.
“Have I done something to amuse you, Mr. Darcy?”
“I sought you out because you seemed distressed on the dance floor and I needed to know what was upsetting you. I think I can surmise the unfortunate gentleman who hastily retreated angered you with assumptions about our joining and I came upon you as you were making your views to him known in no uncertain terms. I admit to enjoying your vigorous defense of my character, and your declaration of our love pleases me immensely. Having been on the receiving end of one of your tongue lashings, I further admit to being grateful it was not aimed at me while also delighting in the young man’s discomfiture. I should be ashamed, but I am not. I saw you had things well in hand and I was only here should he needed a more physical rebuttal.”
Elizabeth narrows her eyes at him while suppressing a smug grin. “I suppose you glowered at him from behind my back?”
Darcy straightens to his full and considerable height, “Indeed I did,” he proclaims in a haughty voice. Then he gathers her to him and lowers his head to her face. “We are alone out here it seems, and it would be a foolish waste if I did not kiss you, my fiery Lizzy.” He increases the pressure to her mouth and relishes her eager response to him. They stand looking at each other as the Colonel steps into the night air.
“Fitz, Miss Elizabeth, the next dance is forming and you, Miss Elizabeth promised me one dance this evening which I intend to have now. I have squired Miss Bingley enough for the night, and that lady graciously freed me from any more obligations as she felt she was required to ensure the ball would be a success by her continued oversight of the servants. She has no more time for me for alas her hostess duties prevent me from having her company. So, Miss Elizabeth, we are free to engage in the dance. Fitz, your next partner is eager for your company, and so she awaits your return to the dance floor.”
“And who might that be?” Darcy solemnly asks while fearing the worst.
“Why Mrs. Bennet, of course, she is most delighted and in raptures that her soon to be son-in-law would acquiesce to lead her to the dance floor. She has spoken of little else, and I find your attention to her to be a very good thing. Shows everyone your intentions not only to Miss Elizabeth but of your acceptance of her family, brilliant Fitz, just brilliant.”
“I see.” With a shrug and acceptance of the inevitable, Darcy walks to his fate. In theory, what his cousin said about Darcy dancing with Mrs. Bennet is true. It will go a long way to quench any more ridiculousness like that of which Mr. Idle spoke. Darcy notes Mr. Idle has made himself scarce. Darcy bows to Mrs. Bennet who giggles like a schoolgirl while she drops him a curtsey then he proceeds to escort her to the dance floor.
“Oh, Mr. Darcy what an honor you do to the whole family. I would never have thought it would be Lizzy who would be the one to claim a gentleman such as you. I could not fathom it, she is always giving her opinions and spends little time making up her person. I am sure that will all change once you two are married, Lizzy is a smart girl and will bend to your superior wisdom.”
“Miss Elizabeth is exactly what I wish for in a wife. Your daughter’s intelligence coupled with her genuine love of others makes me believe she will be a fine Mistress for Pemberley. Her worth is immense.” Darcy can enumerate all the wonderful facets regarding his betrothed that soon he is talking more than Mrs. Bennet! To say Mrs. Bennet is startled by Darcy’s proclamations would be an understatement. By the end of the dance, Mrs. Bennet has much to ponder on, and she left the floor in quiet contemplation of all she heard. Elizabeth won the affections of a superior man.
Darcy is able to claim Elizabeth for the supper set and both work up an appetite. Miss Bingley sets a spectacular table with plenty to consume for all the guests. There are fruits, nuts, breads and puddings in addition to hams and sides of beef. The decorations are a bit over the top, but Miss Bingley is known for gaudy displays in the house as well as on her person. Caroline voiced her disgust to Louisa about the Bennet family, but Louisa is careful not to respond, her brother’s earlier warnings ringing in her head.
Darcy and Elizabeth sit by one another as they partake of the feast laid out for the ball guests. Darcy compliments Elizabeth on her gown and is take
n with her beauty. Elizabeth graciously accepted the earrings he presented her with while once again voicing her objection he need not give her such expensive gifts. Darcy leaned into Elizabeth while whispering to her he was worth ten thousand a year, so he is well able to shower her with such. He turns up the corner of his mouth again and mirth dances in his eyes. What beautiful, unique blue eyes he has especially when they are lit up with emotion. The exchange grinds to a halt with Caroline’s voice.
“Mr. Darcy, I pray you have enjoyed the festivities tonight? The decorations, musical selections and food have all met with your approval?” Caroline drops her eyes and shifts her upper body forward to allow for a quick glance at her assets displayed by her daring décolletage while also projecting an image of total attentiveness to the gentleman.
Darcy glances briefly at Caroline then gives his answer to her direct inquiries while gazing at Elizabeth. “Indeed yes, I can say I have enjoyed tonight’s ball immensely. In fact, I cannot remember a more pleasant evening than the one I have experienced tonight.” Before Caroline can begin to preen under what she assumes is a compliment for her, Darcy continues. “I have never before appreciated what a joy these events could be until having Elizabeth by my side. Such contentment I have not felt before.” He gives Elizabeth a slight squeeze to her hand. Caroline is not to be deterred and seeks to remind him of his dance with the insufferable Mrs. Bennet.
“Ah yes, Mr. Darcy, you seemed to be quite willing to escort Mrs. Bennet on the dance floor. I would imagine the conversation would be most interesting?”
“Miss Bingley, I would say our dialogue was most interesting as it pertained to a person both Mrs. Bennet and I hold dear- Miss Elizabeth. I spoke to Mrs. Bennet of Elizabeth’s worth, explaining to her I required a woman with a fine mind and quick intellect to assist me with the running of Pemberley. Miss Elizabeth’s laughter and wit is a balm to my soul, and I anticipate her charm and talents to sweep through Pemberley making my ancestral home brighter and stronger than ever before. Also, as I noted to you before, it has been quite a while since I have deemed Elizabeth to be the most handsome woman of my acquaintance. Mrs. Bennet was left with no doubts as to my sentiments regarding her daughter nor my strong attachment to her.” Elizabeth sports a mild blush at such high praise.
Caroline is displeased that she has gained no new ground with Darcy nor failed to make him dwell upon Mrs. Bennet’s poor connections, so she tries a different approach to paint Elizabeth as mercenary. “Well Miss Elizabeth, high praise indeed. How comforted you must feel to have such a man’s regard. I would also say Mr. Darcy’s family connections and his fine estate helped to entice you to accept him? It is a joy to your mother I am sure to not only have Jane placed here at Netherfield but to have you at Pemberley is a triumph she relishes. I do not doubt that as a good and caring mother she made sure to instill in you and dear Jane the importance of making the best possible match. It seems, Miss Elizabeth, you followed your mother’s advice quite explicitly.” Caroline twists her head just a bit to the side while fixing Elizabeth with pursed lips and a lifted brow.
Darcy is vexed at Caroline’s cruel attempt to darken their love for each other. He considers retaliating harshly to protect Elizabeth from Caroline’s insinuations, but he holds back because he feels the returned squeeze to his hand and catches the glint in Elizabeth’s eyes.
Smiling sweetly at Caroline, Elizabeth addresses her, “Miss Bingley, you are correct, every woman should seek to better her position in the world if she is able. You have alluded to this concept many times as you have sought to find your match.” Miss Bingley begins to color, not wanting to be reminded of her single persistent status in spite of a significant dowry. “Furthermore I find I am drawn to a man who will allow me my thoughts and opinions, who welcomes my comments in a conversation. I am delighted to know Mr. Darcy gives me leave to find issues to quibble and quarrel with him at will and as he has told me, it is this dialogue which keeps him at his best. He has spoken to me of his wish to have my skills utilized in the running of his home, but as I have already apprised him, I will tell you - no matter his standing in this world be it a member of the realm or a common laborer, he is the man in talents and disposition who most suits me. I would love none but him no matter his consequence.”
“Well spoken! Indeed, Miss Elizabeth, you have the right of it! We could all do well to follow your example and find such a suitable mate!” Sir William declares loudly. Caroline is extremely agitated that she is once again foiled in her attempts to embarrass Elizabeth and to hurt her standing with Mr. Darcy. Her temper becomes more darkened as Charles calls for everyone’s attention.
“Excuse me please, I would like to make a toast to my fiancée.” As people raise their wine glasses and face Charles and Jane, he continues, “To Miss Jane Bennet who has made me the happiest man by accepting me. I cannot express my profound joy to have obtained such an angel as she!” Glasses clink all around while people smile and express the same warm sentiments about Jane and Bingley. “Additionally, as most of you are aware, my closest friend, Mr. Darcy has his heart equally captured by the lovely Miss Elizabeth Bennet, here’s to their happiness as well.” Another round of clinking and murmuring buzzes through the crowd. “We will be wed together, after the third banns here in Hertfordshire in a double ceremony. Best friends to marry sisters!” Applause breaks out as various ladies speak of the romance in a double wedding and the men jest about getting the whole affair over quickly. Caroline is incensed at the simplicity of these people and the foolishness of her brother and his esteemed friend.
“You are carrying away the brightest jewel in the county Mr. Darcy.” Sir William pronounces with pomp. Darcy does not allow the ill-mannered comment to affect him. No one would shatter his newfound peace which he achieved with Elizabeth in his life. She allows him to come out of a prideful existence and gives him the solace that has long evaded him. He is beginning to heal.
Darcy and Elizabeth finish the evening in high spirits and find themselves bonded closer than before having dealt with the ridiculousness of some people while having the opportunity to declare their love for one another publicly. Late in the evening Darcy and Lizzy can find some privacy. They talk about Mr. Idle and his misguided statements. Darcy again amusedly tells Elizabeth of how much he enjoyed her set down of the man. Both of them agree it seems as if Caroline will have to be taken to task for her very open and ill-mannered remarks about their joining. Elizabeth tries to soothe Darcy’s anger, but he has dealt with Caroline’s maneuverings for so long that his normal forbearance is at an end. Elizabeth assures him, Caroline, does not bother her for Elizabeth knows she has Darcy’s love. Besides just as Elizabeth had told Darcy’s aunt, the world would be too sensible to join the scorn.
Darcy is overcome with emotion as Elizabeth gives him the succor he needs. He draws her to him and without preamble, kisses her deeply. Elizabeth feels sensations which are new and a bit scary but overall seductive. She is awakened to the very basic attractions which a woman feels when with the man she loves. She starts to feel a need creep into her body which she instinctively knows only Darcy can fulfill. Darcy for his part has been filled with the same need for many years, but he too comprehends Elizabeth is the one who will meet his desires fully. Both of them feel heat and want spread throughout their bodies. A noise alerts them to others coming nearby, and they break apart.
“Elizabeth, you have captivated me, and I can do little but surrender myself to your love. I hope I have not frightened you by my passion for you?” Darcy takes some deep breathes as he waits for her response.
“Beloved, I am not frightened in the least, I too surrender myself to your love and welcome your passion.” Elizabeth adopts a playful lilt to her voice, “I believe we will suit each other in talents and disposition most admirably.” Darcy cannot control the deep laugh that erupts from him. Her double entendre at such a serious moment removes some of the sexual tension while letting him know that she feels the same ardor as he. Plus h
er use of the same words she had spoken when defending their love to Caroline played well.
“Come, Love, we should rejoin the party as soon it will be time to part for the night. Tomorrow will be hectic enough planning and packing for our trip to London. Have I told you how I love you most ardently?” Darcy caresses her cheek with his fingertips then traces her lips with his index finger.
“Fitzwilliam, I would say you have demonstrated your love to me,” she replies with a smug grin.
Chapter 13
The day of the sisters’ departure to London and the home of their Aunt and Uncle Gardiner dawned. Both Jane and Lizzy were up early, completed their morning ablutions and ate a hasty breakfast. Darcy, Henry, and Bingley will ride alongside Darcy’s carriage to accompany the sisters to Cheapside. Mr. Bennet spared two of the maids to accompany his daughters. Mrs. Bennet bemoaned the lack of help, but Mr. Bennet is not swayed. They will stop for a luncheon at a small well-run establishment which offers delicious fare and comfortable seating. The gentlemen had stopped there in the recent past and were pleased with the offerings. The horses will benefit from the break as the footman and driver take a lunch as well.
Returning to the carriage, Jane and Lizzy have the opportunity to speak of Caroline’s behavior and the gentlemen’s rising ire. “I can say Charles is vexed with Miss Bingley’s continued barbs. He has concluded he will tell her he will make arrangements for her to either reside with the Hursts permanently or establish her on her own unless she releases all her rancor.” Jane looks troubled to tell Lizzy of Caroline’s unpleasantness.
“It would be for the best if Mr. Bingley did handle her because I fear Fitzwilliam is at the end of his tolerance. We have spoken, Jane, of his protective nature and he has already told me of his desire to rebuke her firmly for her cuts to me. I have prevailed upon him to allow Mr. Bingley to speak sense to Caroline and Fitzwilliam has agreed for the moment. I think this time away from her will help to lessen his displeasure of Caroline. Who knows, maybe she will even soften in her opinions upon our return.” Lizzy widens her eyes and gives Jane a vacant stare which has the desired effect and causes Jane to giggle. “Mr. Bingley hosted a most wonderful ball, our family and neighbors were pleased, and all praised his good and generous nature.”