by Kay Mares
Caroline holds back the tears which threatened to spill. She knew Darcy to be a gentleman, and belatedly it occurs to her that he will make moves to protect his family from censure. That Elizabeth is to be an important part of his family eats at Caroline. She cannot look at the others around the table, afraid for them to see her shame. She finishes the meal in silence while the others, led by Henry engage in light banter which eases the tension for all but Caroline. As the gentlemen leave for Charles’ study, Caroline escorts the ladies to the parlor. Jane, Elizabeth, and Georgiana do not acknowledge the spectacle Caroline has made of herself, and Louisa shakes her head sadly. The others talk mostly about the wedding while Louisa offers some kind observations as her sister sits forlorn and quiet.
Meanwhile, the men minus Mr. Hurst who has no interest in anything other than cards and wine, briefly discussed what transpired in the dining room. Darcy intended to apologize to Charles, but he assures Darcy he is not in the least offended.
“Long time in coming, Fitz,” Henry comments. Darcy gives the Colonel a withering glare. “Once you make it through the day, Fitz, I plan to return to Rosings to ask for Anne’s hand. I have arranged an extended stay from my military duties both to attend your nuptials and to forward my own. I have a letter here from Anne to Miss Elizabeth. Anne did not trust it with our aunt about so she enclosed it into one she sent me.”
“I see. I received a letter from Lady Catherine in which she used language so abusive especially towards Elizabeth I fear all interactions with Rosings are at an end. Would Anne offer Elizabeth any such insult?” Darcy wishes to protect Elizabeth from any more unjust attacks.
“No, she would not. You know Anne to have a gentle nature. Our aunt holds her back. Once we are wed, I will see to Anne’s freedom and gladly escort Aunt Catherine to the dowager house myself.” Henry says with some indignation. Henry continues, “Anne and I discussed the probability of your designs on Miss Elizabeth. Anne told me of how you tried to interact with Miss Elizabeth when you thought no one to take notice. Cousin, I saw you myself – how you stuttered and flushed. Unfortunately, our fractious aunt took note. I cannot say I am surprised to hear of her writing to you of her displeasure nor of her attempts to sully Elizabeth. Do not let her vex you; she will soon have more to concern her than your marriage.”
Darcy nods his agreement. “Your father said much the same thing to me. Elizabeth charmed both your father and mother and they gave their blessings on the union. I had thought to write to the Earl regarding Lady Catherine’s written tirade, but perhaps it would suit just as well if you could communicate to your father her Ladyship’s recent harangue? I did not keep the letter, rather burned it; no good would come of it if Elizabeth were to know its contents. Lady Catherine is to hear from the Earl concerning her ignorant behavior towards Elizabeth’s family, in particular to Elizabeth herself. It promises to be a heated exchange for Lady Catherine would never admit to a wrong.” Henry is thoughtful for a moment then concurs with Darcy.
“I will relay to my father what you have said. I see no reason for you to bother yourself with the issue any further. Let us go back and enjoy the company of the ladies, Fitz.”
Darcy took Anne’s letter from Henry and reminded him once again not to call him Fitz. Henry leaves the room with a spring in his step as Darcy follows him into the parlor. Once there, Darcy notes Caroline pale and quiet by herself while the rest of the ladies, including Mrs. Hurst, discuss wedding minutiae. Darcy feels no remorse for his set down of Miss Bingley, but he worries that Elizabeth might see him as proud and disdainful. When she swings her eyes to his and her face lights with a radiant smile, Darcy knows she did not disapprove of his handling of Caroline. He indicates a corner of the room with his eyes and Elizabeth stands, stretches and announces she would like to move about the room after having sat for so long. Her comment fools no one, and they continue their talk without her. Darcy holds out his arm and the two meander to a more private locale.
“Henry has given me a letter addressed to you from my cousin Anne. I have no reason to fear its contents so you may choose to read it now or later in privacy.” He hands the missive to Elizabeth who takes it while studying the envelope. She tears open the seal and begins to read. Darcy allows her space, but she waves him back.
Dear Miss Elizabeth,
Please have no worries as to any unpleasantness in this letter. I just wanted to let you know of my joy in learning of your betrothal to my beloved cousin. I thought him to be smitten with you when you visited Rosings. He seemed to have a certain lightness in his eyes which has been absent for many years. I can only speculate, but I would venture he has told you that he and I have no desire to marry; it has been a want only of my mother’s.
I would also guess he has enlightened you as to Henry and I having affection for one another, and we wish to see it come to its fruition by our joining. Wills and I would never have suited, we both being too serious and reticent. Henry’s jovial ways give joy to my being while he says I am a steadying influence on him. I do not mean to say Wills is without humor. By now I imagine you have been privy to what a humorous man Wills can be! Henry says you bring that out in him and it has been far too long since the rest of the family has enjoyed his wit. I thank you for pulling him out of his despair and giving him life once again.
Georgiana has written to me of your charm and grace, conveying her hopes for a close relationship with her new sister. I have hope for my young cousin; she will grow in confidence under your guidance because I trust Wills would only pick a superior woman with whom to wed. Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on your upcoming marriage, and I await the time when we may become friends.
Lastly, you know of the continual pranks Henry and Wills like to play on one another as well as Henry’s constant referral to Wills as Fitz. I am not sure why Wills takes such offense to the nickname as he has always been tolerant of my calling him ‘Wills.’ I believe we will enjoy their antics with each other as they further their maneuverings. Welcome to the family, Miss Elizabeth!
Yours,
Miss de Bourgh
Elizabeth faces Darcy with some shimmering tears in her eyes. Elizabeth is grateful for Miss de Bourgh’s acceptance of her into the family and her offering of friendship. Elizabeth asks about Henry seeking Miss de Bourgh’s hand and about Anne’s shortening of his name to Wills. Darcy snickers, “My cousin Anne may not play the game quite like Henry, and I do, but she figured correctly you are very clever and gave you something to tease me about. She is correct in stating I have not minded her pet name for me. I have rather found it charming. I have not had the opportunity to tell you of their hopes, but I would ask your discretion in the matter. Henry will travel to Rosings after our wedding to make his intentions to Anne known.”
“I am exceedingly grateful Miss de Bourgh thought enough to send a letter. After Lady Catherine’s dismay, I harbored worries I would be found wanting. It has been refreshing to find your family has been accepting of me even though I have not the same connections as they do. What of the ton, Fitzwilliam? While Lady Geneve was gracious, how will other members receive me?” Elizabeth’s curiosity plays across her face.
“We must speak a little of how some things in your life will change with your marriage to me. Have no further fears regarding my family. The Matlocks adore you, and soon Anne will no longer be under her mother’s hand. Lady Catherine sent me a letter in which she reiterated her displeasure with our match. Do not ask to read it for I have destroyed it. I will tell you she has offended me enough, so I fear I will sever ties with her. I apologize for speaking so dismissively of her, but she has overstepped her bounds with me for the last time. I look forward to the day when Henry is in control of Rosings, and he and Anne will claim the joy which awaits them. Regarding the ton, there will be balls and other gatherings requiring our presence in London. You will find some such as Lady Geneve who will accept you without reservation. Others may require some time to learn about you, and they too will be accept
ing. Still, others will reject you outright because they are petty and shallow and you need not concern yourself with them.”
Darcy narrows his eyes, and a certain agitation comes about him as he continues his monologue. “It is some of the rest who concern me the most. Remember how I confided in you some women had offered themselves to me? These women would delight in having me as it would have gratified some perverse desire to wield that kind of power. To use their bodies to control men and lord that kind of manipulation over another is despicable. I have dealt with such low people all of my adult life.”
Darcy levels his intelligent stare onto Elizabeth’s face. “You will be the target of unscrupulous men. These men only think of women as a conquest, something to be had, some depraved goal to be scored. As Master and Mistress of Pemberley, we will be sought after. If they are successful, then they will brag about their conquests and how they sullied us, brought us down to their wicked behavior. I do not claim to understand the reasoning of these reprobates but I know they exist and you will be exposed to them. Most of the females have long since given up their designs on me because I have fostered that cold and foreboding manner they cannot penetrate, but you are something entirely different. Men will be attracted to your liveliness and beauty; some will seek you as a plot for revenge on me for business dealings in which they feel they were wronged. It is this immoral activity which resides in the ton which is frowned upon but never truly condemned because it makes for provocative gossip. They would never wish to halt their entertainment. Such is the hypocrisy of the ton.” Elizabeth moves closer to Darcy both because she needs to relieve his tension and because she feels apprehension for what he disclosed. He responds by pulling her to him in spite of the others in the room. “I will do all in my power to protect you from their evil. I am profoundly sorry I have to tell you of this and even more distressed you will be exposed to it.”
“Fitzwilliam, I comprehend how hard it is has been for such an honorable man as you to have to function among people of that ilk. I know too you will make moves to protect me from those ugly realities, but as long as I have you to guide me, I have no doubts that I will be safe. Furthermore, if someone like Lady Geneve can stay so positive and not fall into those traps, then I feel I will be able to achieve the same. Please do not fret so as I will look to your wisdom when it comes time for us to manage the ton. You have always protected me, and I have nothing to fear as long as you are with me.” Elizabeth soothes his brows then rubs his arm, willing his tension away. Darcy eases slowly as Elizabeth’s ministrations buoy him. He sighs and strokes her cheek with his fingers as his eyes warm once more.
“Your assurances ease my heart. I despise telling you of anything that may give you alarm but I have found being open with you has been most rewarding. No one will be able to come between us as long as we continue to communicate honestly with each other. I love you, dearest Elizabeth. There is nothing I cannot handle as long as you are at my side.” As always when Elizabeth is near him, Darcy’s apprehensions vanish. He meant what he said as far as her giving him the confidence to weather life’s storms. He frankly had tired of battling various trials alone. He embraces the knowledge that she will be exactly what he needs – a partner for the remainder of his life.
Chapter 16
There is just one more day until the double wedding was to take place. The preparations are almost finished including food, drink, clothes, and accommodations for guests. Elizabeth and Jane are unsure if they will have a chance to see their intendeds today for Mrs. Bennet has managed to have everyone caught up in frenetic activity. Kitty and Mary bear the brunt of their mother’s nervous energy while Elizabeth and Jane are not totally immune, they are afforded some solitary time. Jane works on some needlework in the corner of the house where she would have some solitude; Elizabeth embarked on her favored method of meditation which is a brisk walk. While out she recalls some encounters with Darcy and these memories replay in her mind. Some bring mortification to her for the unkind things she let pass through her lips. She feels ashamed for judging Miss de Bourgh as sickly and cross, thinking her to be a suitable mate for Darcy. Elizabeth condemns her thoughts especially after the warm letter Darcy’s cousin sent to congratulate Elizabeth on her engagement. Now knowing Darcy as she does, her prior comments give her guilt. Darcy said painful memories would intrude which should not be repressed. She will, however, take her own advice then and remember the past to bring pleasure.
This turn of her mind leads her to recall a walk they took about Longbourn’s surrounding woods. As Elizabeth told Darcy of some the history of the land and manor, Darcy was enjoying the beauty of the forest and his fiancée. Elizabeth was happily chattering about some of her childhood reminisces, so she did not notice when Darcy stopped his ramble. When she did, she saw him looking at a tall oak tree a few feet off the path. Curiously, Darcy strode over to the tree and placed one hand upon it. He then lightly slapped the trunk as he stated, “This tree would be a perfect one for us to carve our initials upon, maybe within a heart shape?”
“Rather mawkish Mr. Darcy, I would think.” Elizabeth raised a brow as he grinned and shrugged his shoulders. He rejoined her on the path, and they continued with their stroll, and no more was said about carving their initials into a tree. However, imagine Elizabeth’s shock while on a stroll of her own some days later she noted her initials with Darcy’s carved into that particular tree! Even more shock awaited when she spied the paper wedged into the crook of some of the branches. Elizabeth unfolded the note and laughed unabashedly when she read what was written. It simply read I told you so. She shook her head knowingly as she could imagine his false superiority when she next saw him. When he had time to accomplish the task, she did not know. She asked him about it later, and he just laughed and said he wanted them to be linked for all eternity. Now as she took her ramble, she giggles at his endearing sentimentality. What is so refreshing to Lizzy is his carefully concealed humor and wit, why it seems as if he loves to laugh almost as much as she does! Jane only smiles, I laugh. Elizabeth chuckles out loud once more.
She turns her thoughts to his physical attributes. He is taller than most, broad-shouldered with well-defined muscles. His hair is almost black, and she longs to run her fingers through it. Elizabeth sighs when thinking of his eyes. Because his stare is so direct, she thought he was looking to find fault. He admitted to her that he could hardly keep his eyes off of her. She loves his blue eyes which contrast so with his hair. Those eyes of his are not the pale blue of some peoples’ eyes nor a deep blue of others. Rather they are a unique and remarkable shade of blue with their own brilliance. They also reflect his acute intelligence which will forever be a part of who he is. His eyes betray his emotions now that she knows what to watch for. There is a warmth and gentle humor which infuse them when he talks to her. Amusement, joy, and delight present themselves as well. The constant emotion Elizabeth sees in his eyes is a deep love.
Elizabeth allows her thoughts to drift to her betrothed as she had seen him walking about both at Rosings and Pemberley. His is a ground covering stride, and his boot heels strike the ground with certainty. There is no hesitation instead a certain assertiveness and boldness. She muses about his riding skills recalling some conversations about his horse. She was surprised at the stallion’s name, Tempest, and while she knows the work it came from, she did not realize in addition to the wild daring way he rides, the name also represents his feelings that his life at times is no more than a tempest in which he has been caught up.
Lizzy ponders that at times her beloved’s face often matched the darkness of his steed. It seemed as if the horse was as haughty and cold as his rider. Elizabeth met Tempest on several occasions now, and Darcy was pleased to note how the stallion responded readily to Elizabeth’s ministrations. Just as Darcy eased his guardedness so had the horse. Now she enjoys seeing the changes. Those marvelous blue eyes glow, and overall he is more handsome than before. As she thinks more about his riding skills, she recalls a h
arrowing incident which occurred while she, Jane, Bingley, and Darcy had taken a horse ride together during their courtships.
The foursome just entered Meryton on their horses when a commotion caught their attention. A group of boys started an impromptu horse race, and one lad’s horse became excited and uncontrollable. The animal bolted, and the rider was unable to bring the horse back under control. With a shout to Bingley to mind the ladies, Darcy spurred Tempest forward to intercept the wayward pair before they made it into the town. Elizabeth was fearful yet exhilarated as she watched Darcy handle his stallion while deftly reaching over to grasp the bridle of the runaway horse. Darcy kept his seat admirably as he slowed both equines down until they stopped just a little way into the town. No one was injured, and no damage was done, but as Darcy and the young rider both dismounted, some of the townsfolk crept closer to try to ascertain what Darcy was saying to the boy.
Darcy was speaking quietly to the wide-eyed lad who nodded and focused on what Darcy was saying. At the end of the conversation, the curious crowd was surprised to see Darcy give a quick smile to the boy as he put his hand on his shoulder. The other racers drew closer but not close enough to become involved in the exchange. As Darcy led Tempest back to where his party waited, Elizabeth could see the other boys excitedly questioning their friend about what the formidable Mr. Darcy had said to him. Darcy was tight-lipped about the exchange for the rest of the day, but Elizabeth noted the slightly mischievous smile.