by Kay Mares
Chapter 14
Darcy and Lizzy are in a fashionable part of London the next day with Jane and Bingley when they hear Darcy being called. As they turn to see who addressed him, the party notes a well-dressed, classy young lady approach. She holds out both hands to Darcy who takes them in his own without hesitation. “I heard you were in Town and with your fiancée as well! Please introduce me to your lady and her friends.” The woman’s eyes are dark brown, and her hair is almost black. She is handsome and altogether friendly. Instantly everyone is at ease.
“Lady Geneve, may I present to you my fiancée, Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Hertfordshire, her sister, Miss Jane Bennet, and Mr. Bingley, her fiancé.” Darcy bows along with Bingley while the ladies curtsy to one another. “We are in Town to allow our ladies to view their London homes and so they may finish their shopping for our upcoming nuptials.”
“It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Elizabeth and that of your sister. I believe I met Mr. Bingley at a ball last fall.” Lady Geneve turns to Elizabeth, “I have long hoped Darcy would find that one woman who would give him the happiness which has eluded him for so long. Seeing my old friend at ease and with his usual glower replaced with that smile does my heart good.” Lady Geneve’s big smile is on her face with a twinkle in her brown eyes. “We have been Derbyshire neighbors since we were children and I have always considered him a big brother to me. He would fix my broken toys and a few times kept some older bullies from picking on my friends and me in Lambton. He has always been a model gentleman. I will be delighted to tell Harland of our meeting. Sir Harland is my husband. Once you and Darcy have returned to Pemberley, I would be honored to host you in my home. Mr. Bingley and Miss Bennet, it would be my pleasure to forward our acquaintance as well.” Lady Geneve’s manner remains open and friendly as she addresses Elizabeth. Elizabeth notes with pleasure Lady Geneve does not look to judge but instead is genuine and welcoming.
“Thank you, Lady Geneve for your kindness. I will look forward to seeing you again.” Elizabeth responds as she returns a grin. Lady Geneve’s smile broadens as she turns from Elizabeth to address Darcy.
“Darcy, I do hope when you and Miss Elizabeth return to London as a married couple that we can coordinate to be in Town as well. These soirees within the ton are so cumbersome and to be with sincere people like yourself and your friends would be a welcome relief.” Lady Geneve curtsied again, “Please excuse me; I must be off to meet my husband-men hate to be kept waiting you know.” With an airy wave, she sets off down the street accompanied by her footman.
“You seem to have many admirers, Fitzwilliam,” Elizabeth teases.
“The only one who matters to me is you. Lady Geneve and her family have been in the Derbyshire area for almost as long as the Darcy family. As she stated, we have never thought of each other as nothing more than friends. She found her love, Sir Harland and from what I am told, it was love at first site. Lady Geneve has been a good friend to Georgiana and helped her when Father passed.” Darcy looks thoughtful for a moment. “She did not really have you speak to her much yet she knows the happiness you have brought me. She often lamented over my persistence single status and spoke her concerns over my finding bliss with any of the woman of the ton. Funny how sometimes others see us better than we see ourselves.”
“Well, I like her. She seems to have a certain spunkiness about her which I find myself drawn to. I hope to know more about her, and her invitation was all correct and proper.”
Darcy’s mouth turns up. “I will have to think upon that. With her spunkiness and your lively wit, I am not sure Sir Harland and I would be up to the test.” Elizabeth pouts her lips, but her eyes are dancing as they walk up to the waiting carriages. They will part ways until Bingley and Jane come to Darcy house for supper. Elizabeth has not seen Darcy House before, and she is swept away by the elegance of the home. It appears Darcy like Elizabeth tends to prefer decorations and furnishings while fine are not just placed about to impress unduly. Georgiana meets them in the foyer where the footman takes their outer clothes. Mrs. Ball, the head housekeeper at Darcy House, welcomes them both to the home. She is a shorter woman, a bit round but is pleasant and proper. She is excited to meet the Master’s bride to be, and the house gleams with the extra attention it has received.
‘Mr. Darcy, it is a pleasure to have you home, Sir. I have refreshments awaiting you in the sitting room if you please.” Mrs. Ball curtsies.
“Thank you, Mrs. Ball. I would like to take this time to introduce you to my fiancée, Miss Elizabeth Bennet. We will take a tour of the house first then we will partake of your offerings.”
“Miss Bennet, the pleasure is all mine. Please Ma’am if there is anything you require, do not hesitate to make me aware and I will see to your needs. Welcome to Darcy House, it is an honor to meet you.”
Elizabeth returns the curtsy and thanks Mrs. Ball for her kind greeting. Then Elizabeth turns to Miss Darcy, curtsies again and holds her hands out to her. “Come, Miss Elizabeth, I would like for you to see your new home.” The girls link arms and Darcy trails behind contentedly listening to his sister chatter to Elizabeth about the house.
Elizabeth is impressed with the history of the home. Darcy informs her that as Mistress anything she wishes to change may be done so. Elizabeth cannot think of changing a thing at this point but assures Darcy she will communicate any inclinations to him. She will not admit to Darcy that the rooms which hold the most curiosity for her are his private quarters. She cannot help herself even though she knows a proper young lady does not hold thoughts such as those.
Next comes Darcy’s private quarters. Because of Georgiana’s presence, Darcy does not linger long there with Elizabeth. Elizabeth quickly takes in the dark rich cherry furniture, emerald green, gold and burgundy drapes and bedcovers, and a glass and book on the nightstand. The book and glass make Elizabeth bring forth the same image at Netherfield when she attended him in his sickroom. The scene brings a pang to her heart. Now as he stands here tall, handsome and regal, Lizzy begins to feel stirrings of a very different kind which before had only been brought about by one of his kisses. She feels a flush begin to creep up her neck and is glad neither Darcy nor Georgiana glance in her direction. The tour finishes with a cursory look at the kitchen and then they all repair to the sitting room to await Bingley and Jane.
Darcy, Elizabeth, and Georgiana are enjoying the quiet afternoon after the tour. Georgiana is showing Elizabeth some of her needlework while the two of them are discussing books they had read, favorite meals, latest fashions and whatever else came to mind. The atmosphere in the room is one of tranquility, enough so that Darcy completely lets his defenses down. He is not sitting on the sofa upright, but rather he is a bit slouched down in the cushions. Even more shocking are his hands waving about as he hums a tune. At various times, he points in the air to his invisible orchestra to summon forth more brass or more strings. He is conducting the music he is humming. Elizabeth stutters to a halt during her talk with Georgiana and fixes her eyes on the figure on the couch. Georgiana tilts her mouth as she fondly watches her brother indulge his whimsy. Soon Elizabeth cannot contain the smile which bursts forth at seeing her beloved Fitzwilliam so at ease. Their lack of chatter penetrates his concert, and he glances over at them. Seeing their gazes upon him, he flushes bright red, sits up straight with alacrity, and plants his feet firmly on the floor. Elizabeth purses her lips to keep the giggle from spilling out of her mouth. Georgiana lowers her eyes but cannot help a small laugh which gently shakes her shoulders.
“Georgiana, you remember attending the symphony last spring and hearing a rousing rendition of Beethoven’s Symphony number three, the ‘Eroica’? I recalled the inspiring performance we were privileged to hear,” Darcy intones seriously.
“Yes Fitzwilliam, I do remember the performance, and I am glad to see you allow yourself a moment of frivolous indulgence. You give yourself little leeway.” Georgiana gently assuages him.
Darcy thinks for
a moment. “Indeed you are correct. I am caught. I am thoroughly soothed and content. I thank you, ladies, for that.” He fixes his eyes on Elizabeth. “I have amused you, yes?”
“Oh Fitzwilliam, I have not the words to convey my delight you have opened yourself up to me and have allowed me to be a part of your life. I love you; as I once told you, while whims and inconsistencies do tend to divert me, I hope never to ridicule what is wise or good.” Elizabeth’s eyes are shining as she addresses him.
Darcy beams with her use of the words she had once told him at Netherfield. His Lizzy does tease him on occasion but never to be mean or spiteful, she just loves to laugh. Lizzy continues, “After hearing your singing voice, I am not surprised by your love of music. Do you play an instrument as well or does only Miss Darcy claim that skill?”
“I do not possess any skills with an instrument. Mother encouraged me on the pianoforte, but as you stated, only Georgiana can claim competency. Next, I was to try the violin, but it sounded more like screeching cats. Mother despaired my apparent lack of musical abilities, but as I matured, I developed what some have said to be a pleasing voice. My absolute musical talent, however, is that I hum. It is all in the lips, you know.” Darcy’s mouth turns up at the corner, so Elizabeth knows some jest is coming. “See? One must purse the lips just so and tighten or loosen them for the required effect.” Darcy begins to exaggerate his facial expressions bringing outright laughter from Georgiana and Elizabeth. Elizabeth knew about his sense of humor but to give himself over to such silliness is something she would not have thought possible from him! He is funny but not in such a way as it detracts from his intelligence. Darcy stands, stretching his legs as he speaks, “I will check with the staff to see if we have word of Charles and Miss Bennet as well as have more tea brought in. Does this meet your approvals?”
“Yes brother, it would be most appreciated, thank you,” Georgiana answers for both she and Elizabeth. As Darcy leaves, he gives them a cheeky grin and Georgiana addresses Elizabeth. “I am gratified to see my brother act so freely. He rarely allows himself any latitude even when it has been only he and I together. To see him make faces and poke fun at himself reminds me of when we were young. He would rescue me from my studies and off we would go. Maybe to view nature down by the lake or talk of the sky and clouds. He is the best brother I could ask for. I remember if I had fallen or bumped a knee, he would come and make all those silly faces until I would no longer cry but be laughing at his ridiculousness. Then he would sneak into the kitchen and bring me back a sweet or two to make everything all better. As we grew and Fitzwilliam took on more responsibilities and especially after Father’s death, I saw less and less of that side of him. You have brought light to my brother’s darkness, and he feels as if he can live again. I am overcome with joy for you both.”
Elizabeth feels tears prickle her eyes. She loves Darcy beyond reason, and she has a growing attachment to Georgiana who will become a close sister to her. Lizzy is cognizant once again of the great honor both siblings give her by holding her in such high regard. “I am blessed to have you both in my life.” Sounds come from the hallway, and soon Darcy returns with Jane and Bingley. Fresh tea is brought in, and everyone settles in for some fellowship. In a day’s time, they will be returning to Hertfordshire, and the wedding is the topic which carries them through until the dinner hour.
The next morning the party bids adieu to London. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner with their children will travel to Hertfordshire the following day, bringing with them the last bit of the Bennet sisters’ purchases. The gentlemen ride alongside the carriages once again giving Jane and Elizabeth some private time to discuss their visit to London. Georgiana travels in a separate coach with Mrs. Annesley. Jane found the staff at the Bingley townhouse to be welcoming; she is hesitant to say so, but Mr. Bingley’s staff will breathe a sigh of relief when Caroline is no longer in control.
“He is everything a young man ought to be. Handsome, charming, and proper. I am so blessed to have earned his regard. I look forward to our union with joy.” Jane’s expression is one of supreme contentment.
Elizabeth agrees with Jane about their marital felicity, but she wishes to seek Jane’s opinion on another topic about marriage, the topic of one’s wifely duties. Elizabeth asked her Aunt Gardiner some basic questions, and thankfully Aunt Gardiner understood Lizzy sought a more detailed explanation. Lizzy had heard from Mrs. Bennet, Charlotte, and Lydia of the odiousness attached with that aspect of married life but those sentiments did not fit with the exhilarating and sultry stirrings she feels when alone with Fitzwilliam. Mrs. Gardiner had Elizabeth to know the marriage bed can be one of joys for both the male and the female if they are sensitive to the other’s needs and desires. Openness and honesty are paramount.
Mrs. Gardiner further pointed out to Elizabeth the Bible states upon marriage a man and woman became one flesh, united by God himself. She highlighted how this blending would occur not only physically but emotionally and spiritually too. She delicately explained the sex act was created by God and is a gift from God between two people who love each other; so how could it be anything but beautiful. She further assured Elizabeth while Lizzy should never act upon her desires before marriage, she should not be ashamed of them either. They are natural. Besides, Mrs. Gardiner finished, from what she had seen of Mr. Darcy and his utmost respect and love for Elizabeth, she felt certain their joining would be all which is pure and tender.
Elizabeth knows Jane will not be as forthcoming to speak of these matters and Elizabeth does not want to cause Jane embarrassment. Mrs. Bennet enumerated all the duties a proper wife would have to undertake to run a manor, and she had lumped marital relations along with the rest, indicating her lack of enthusiasm for the task. Ironic, considering she birthed five daughters, but then again Mr. and Mrs. Bennet were sure each birth would result in a male to break the entailment. Elizabeth brought up the subject carefully while allowing Jane the time to formulate her responses.
“Jane, you need not reply if I am making you uncomfortable, but I have to ask, do you feel different when you are alone with Mr. Bingley? Nothing untoward or scandalous but just more…aware of his presence?” Lizzy begins.
Jane flushes, looking at her hands and the handkerchief she twists in her fingers. She draws a breath, and while not meeting Lizzy’s eyes, she answers her slowly. “Yes Lizzy, I think I know what you are alluding. I love Mr. Bingley dearly and do not doubt as to our happiness. I believe Mr. Bingley will guide me gently, and I try not to worry over that part of the relationship, but many of the married ladies we know have painted a less than bright outlook of married life.”
“I felt as you do Jane, I have no worries as to Mr. Darcy’s temperament, but I too had questions, so I asked Aunt Gardiner to give me guidance,” Lizzy confides.
“You did not!” Jane exclaims then goes on, “What did she say?”
Lizzy tells Jane of what Mrs. Gardiner shared, and they both take comfort in what the Scriptures teach. “I do not think we have been given many examples of what a superior marriage can be, Jane. I have been eased to know the growing feelings I have towards Mr. Darcy are as they should be. If you feel the same, then you should have no worries either.”
“After hearing our Aunt’s advice, I admit to being soothed. I know my love for and with Mr. Bingley is pure and our union will be blessed by God when we speak our vows in the church. Thank you, Lizzy, for sharing your concerns with me and for the comfort you have provided. You have always sought out answers to our common questions.” Jane whispers gratefully.
“I am glad I talked to our Aunt also. She has always been a grounded and intelligent woman. Our Uncle is fortunate to have her for his wife as we are to have her as our beloved Aunt.” Lizzy and Jane finish the carriage ride by enumerating each fiancé’s qualities. At Longbourn, their men escort them into the house and part quickly with hand kisses and bows. Mrs. Bennet’s nerves are at their peak. “So much to do girls, thank goodness you have come. We need to add
ress many issues for your upcoming wedding. We will need Mary and Kitty to get everything accomplished. Did I tell you the Collins remain at Lucas Lodge? Lady Catherine has remained in high dungeon, not that I know why. Hurry girls hurry so much to do!” The sisters do not have time to refresh themselves nor will they see their fiancés any more this day. Mrs. Bennet keeps them occupied with all sorts of tasks.
Chapter 15
The following day after the sisters’ return home is better than they hoped. They allowed Mrs. Bennet her desires and managed to complete most of the so-called important tasks Mrs. Bennet assigned to them. Elizabeth still holds some thoughts about marital duties due to her frank talk with her aunt. She looks at Darcy with new eyes as she thinks of how they have laid the groundwork for an honest and open relationship. Her qualms about the physical aspect of their joining were eased. She looks forward to a stroll with Darcy to speak to him about the matter. Elizabeth is startled then when Darcy begins a discourse far from what she is mulling over.
“Elizabeth there is something of which I would like to speak to you of.” Elizabeth stops walking after hearing his serious tone. She gestures to a nearby bench, and Darcy escorts her there. He paces a few times before her, then sits beside her. “I do not want to alarm you nor revisit a difficult time, but I find I need to ask you some things. I feel with our understanding of each other, and because we have forged a relationship based on honesty, you will understand my curiosity and ease my concerns.” Elizabeth focuses her full attention upon him with a slight bit of alarm. Darcy senses her unease because he brings her hand in his and kisses it. “Do not fear; I have nothing but anticipation for our wedding day. I wish to speak to you about my illness and your care of me. I hold no censure in that regard; rather I wish to know what we spoke of. I remember well you telling me in you I had hope, I can recall your tender ministrations also. But what has troubled me is my recollection of snippets of some of our conversations. Forgive me if I cause you pain, I do not intend to, but I need clarification. Did we talk of our contentious times at Netherfield then Hunsford? Please know I do not hold anger towards you for any of what transpired. I hold myself at fault for all of our prior dealings and the heartache they caused.” There is a certain sadness in his eyes along with pain which tears at Elizabeth.