Healing Mr Darcy’s Heart

by Kay Mares

  “As we were speaking with the driver, Mr. Trussel stood there nodding his head, adding his opinion even though he did nothing to avert the disaster. As I said before, what a phony. The driver’s Master appeared, Earl Warrilow, who began to berate the driver most aggressively before turning to chastise those who interfered with his coach.” Georgiana laughs as she recounts the exchange. “Fitzwilliam had drawn up to his full height, pierced the Earl with a withering look and icily asked him if he was in the habit of bullying his staff and instilling such fear that they would overlook the safety of others in an effort not to inconvenience the Earl. A crowd gathered and Earl Warrilow asked who was addressing him.”

  Elizabeth plans to tease him about ruining still yet another shirt. “My brother drew on his reserve and haughty manner, narrowed his eyes and announced, ‘Mr. Darcy of Pemberley, you, Sir I am already aware of, and I am displeased as is my cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam’. Earl Warrilow blanched and sputtered because he planned some very profitable business negotiations which he had hoped to entice my brother to join. Plus he could not very well continue his rant with all those people about without becoming a spectacle. He apologized for his coach and six running amok, thanked Fitzwilliam and my cousin for their timely intervention and hastily retreated to the inside of the coach.”

  “Mr. Trussel watched the Earl depart and turned to us stating how ignorant the Earl acted and commented on the ridiculousness of some people before he noticed Fitzwilliam now set his sights on him. My brother never changed expression but just stood there impassively eyeing Mr. Trussel with that aloof unflappable manner he has, until Mr. Trussel became chagrined. Mr. Trussel barely made the acceptable bows before he was hurrying down the street. I suppose I should be thankful for my formidable brother as I have not encountered Mr. Trussel since!”

  Both Lizzy and Georgiana fall on the bed chortling at the set downs the Earl, and the unfortunate Mr. Trussel received at Fitzwilliam’s hands. They agree it was not ladylike to laugh at the expense of the others but admit they enjoy the story all the same.

  “It is a good thing the gentlemen are not here to witness our behavior. They would be shocked.” Elizabeth titters. “I am relieved to know neither your cousin nor brother suffered injury. Such a dangerous situation.”

  “I was concerned when I saw Fitzwilliam’s shirt, but he alleviated my worries and jested with me about how much trouble he would be in with Barnabas when Barnabas saw the ruined shirt.” Another round of laughter erupts, and Lizzy tells Georgiana of Darcy’s various jokes with her regarding his tattered garments. “I am not surprised. Whenever there has been a serious or scary moment, Fitzwilliam usually will resort to some humor and self-deprecation to lighten the mood. You will find Brother is not afraid to become involved in a crisis or other such emergency. Sometimes I worry so for his safety, but as I said, he uses his wit to diffuse my worries.” After some more chatter and laughs, Lizzy retires to her shared chamber with Darcy. He has not returned yet, so she climbs under the covers and falls asleep.

  Much later in the night, she awakens when Darcy enters the room. He tries to remain quiet and not disturb her, but his balance is a bit off. She hears him stumble over a bench at the foot of the bed as he ungracefully sits on it. She buries her face in the pillow as he argues with his clothing while trying to disrobe and finally she gives into snickers when he plows into their bed face first, half-clothed. He mumbles an ‘I love you’ then promptly falls asleep.

  The next morning, Elizabeth wakes before Darcy. She kisses his temple and goes to attend to her toiletries and dress for the day. She plans to break her fast in the dining room with Georgiana, feeling fairly certain the gentlemen will not be up as early. She checks on her husband before she goes below and sees him sitting on the side of the bed. His hair is more disheveled than normal, and he is looking at his clothing a bit perplexed. Sensing her presence, he starts and flushes.

  “I am a fool. I should know better than to let them two encourage me so. I am grateful it appears to be an overcast day, I do not believe I would welcome bright sunshine this morning.” He gives Lizzy a bleary-eyed smile.

  “Have no concerns, you do not often allow yourself such frivolity. Take your time to get ready; I already planned to breakfast with Georgiana this morning. I love you, Fitzwilliam.”

  “You are a remarkable woman, Mrs. Darcy. I love you too,” comes the mumbled reply.

  Chapter 23

  The day starts out late for the gentlemen while Lizzy and Georgiana exchange knowing glances. Jonesy slept in well past breakfast which gave Darcy and Henry some private time to discuss Lady Catherine’s behavior. Georgiana attends her studies and Lizzy is reviewing some menu changes with Mrs. Gribble while the cousins talk.

  “My father and I called at Rosings together to announce my engagement to Anne. Lady Catherine ordered Anne from the room, and I was glad she did. I would not want poor Anne to witness the rant she went on. Honestly, Darcy, it was like the woman went deranged. She accused Father, you and I of a conspiracy to wrest control of Rosings from her. I fear a large part of her maneuverings to have you wed Anne must have been to maintain her position as Mistress.” Henry takes some tea and a small biscuit. The window drapes are closed by mutual agreement. Their talk is low pitched in spite of the charged nature of the conversation. Last night is not going to be easily left behind.

  “Lady Catherine could remain Mistress when Anne became Mistress here. She has no right to label anyone mercenary. The title belongs to her alone. Father did not back down, and he charged her with her own failings regarding Anne never being presented and her domination of Anne, reducing her to her current state of timidity. Lady Catherine rallied back at him that he had no right to criticize her upbringing of Anne. She accused Father of pushing me to Anne so my future would be secured because the Earl did not see to it!” Darcy is aghast at his aunt’s belligerent behavior.

  “I was offended because you know that is not my reason for asking Anne to accept me. I do love Anne, and we complement each other well. Lady Catherine then said it was no wonder you never proposed to Anne because you probably did not wish any closer alliance with the Fitzwilliam family meaning Father and myself!”

  “Her logic is dizzying. I suppose I should be thankful I am no longer in her cross sights, but I admit to a difficulty to forgive her for the offenses she laid on Elizabeth in her letter. She made her same tired arguments over and again using different wordage each time, but it was hateful.” Darcy entwines his fingers while placing them against his mouth as Henry continues.

  “Indeed, as Father predicted, you are no longer her concern. She has refused to acknowledge my engagement and has vowed not to attend her own daughter’s wedding. Anne is disgusted and let her mother know she is not invited. Anne took this time to try to repair some of the rifts between them, but she is also making the necessary renovations to the dowager house and hiring staff for her mother. Father and Mother will be hosting the wedding breakfast while the last of Lady Catherine’s possessions are moved. Anne and I will return to Rosings after the wedding and complete the renovations we would like done. It will be easier with our contentious aunt removed from the residence. Father first recommended I treat her with firmness and respect, but after her shameless display, he told me to wash my hands of her.”

  “I had to take a stand with her and not allow her to bully me into her wishes and demands. I fear your father has the right of it. Maybe time will soften her.” Darcy says softly while gazing past Henry to the window beyond.

  “Doubtful but we can hope. You and Elizabeth will come to our wedding, Fitz? We would be honored to have you.”

  Darcy swings his eyes back on Henry and narrows them. “Since you called me Fitz, I cannot say for sure. What of your military career then?” Darcy turns his mouth up. Elizabeth, Georgiana and he will be attending the wedding without a doubt.

  “I took retirement, Fitz. I plan to be a full-time husband and estate owner. I will be looking to your good counsel in t
he future.”

  “I will be honored to help you in your new role. I may give you faulty advice though if you persist in calling me Fitz.” Darcy sits up straighter in his chair as he pierces his cousin with a haughty stare.

  The talk, the darkened room and the tea help to restore Darcy mostly back to normal. He spends some time with his sister, then finds Elizabeth. After some shared intimacies, Darcy is recharged and decides to take revenge on Jonesy for the night before. Without a knock, Darcy enters Jonesy’s room, sweeps the curtains wide open then strides to the center of the room.

  “Jonesy! It is past morning and almost noon. I have been waiting for you to arise so we could begin to go over the rail accounts,” Darcy booms.

  “Bastard. What gives you the right to disturb the dead? Have you no pity?” Jonesy glares at Darcy. “I suppose you will want to go over every figure and ledger all the while discussing the tiniest detail looking for any hidden flaw? You should have followed your cousin into the military. I hear they are looking for new ways to torture the enemy.” Jonesy is lying on his stomach with a pillow tucked under his chin and his arms about it as he fixes an eye on Darcy’s smirk.

  “The military, really, indeed? Might I remind you that I own the place, so I have the right to disturb you? Furthermore, I took your good counsel last night and did as you asked, I waited until today to work on the railway proposal. I am willing to follow your advice again regarding figures, ledgers, and details so I will see you in my study in an hour. Good plan, old man.” Darcy sports a catlike grin, pivots smartly and leaves the room.

  “I may well murder him,” Jonesy mutters.

  To Jonesy’s credit, he is shaved, dressed and presents himself and his findings to Darcy in under an hour. Jonesy sips tea while nibbling on some plain toast. He soon finds himself wrapped up in the discussions as his queasy stomach settles and his headache retreats. Darcy will partner with Jonesy, and together they will make their proposal to the rail company. The deal will prove to be profitable to them both in the future. Jonesy has another purpose for coming to Pemberley; he asks for Darcy’s advice.

  “I am the oldest son in my family as you are aware. While my father remains in good health which I am grateful for, he has given the reins of our fortune over to me. We were landowners many generations ago, having sold the lands in and around London to developers and those who wished to build London townhomes. Our family profited greatly from the expansion of the city, but I have concluded I should settle down. I am looking for a special lady, and I would also like to purchase my own estate. It will be good to be considered part of the landed gentry once more. It would mean I would have something more than just fortune to pass down to my own children.” Jonesy shuffles more papers around in the bag he brought with him until he finds what he is looking for.

  “There are some remarkable estates up for sale or auction, some of which would put me closer to your Pemberley, if you could tolerate it. I was hoping you would peruse this information, give me your opinion, and if there are some you deem worthy, perhaps you would accompany me to assess them? I will not call you Fitz after you have helped me locate the perfect estate.”

  “Hardly likely,” Darcy replies with a wry grin.

  “What’s hardly likely, you helping me with an estate or me not calling you Fitz?” comes the impertinent reply.

  “You do realize the more you call me Fitz, the less impact it has upon me? At this rate, I will not even notice. I will assist you in finding an estate. Mr. Bingley is in the market too. It seems Netherfield has lost its appeal for both him and his lovely bride. We may begin the search with him if you have no reservations about his accompanying us.”

  “None at all. He is a pleasant fellow. Such a good balance to you and your dark moods.” Jonesy states in a matter of fact voice.

  “And yet, here you are, seeking me out. I wonder at your sanity.” Darcy breaks into a grin which spreads to Jonesy. “How about a game of billiards to seal the deal?” They hunt up Henry for some games until it is time for the evening meal. This is the last night the small group will have together because the Bingleys and Hursts are due to arrive tomorrow.

  Later, Lizzy and Darcy are in their four-poster bed listening to the wind blow outside. Darcy stoked the fire, so the room is warm and toasty. Lizzy laughs at Darcy who as before on their first nights together, thinks nothing of bounding about the room naked. She teases him about his supposed shyness, and he retorts after her admission to him in his study that he merely pleases his wife who lusts after him. Lizzy blushes to her toes but giggles all the same as he jumps into the bed before starting the sensuous foreplay which makes them wild. Afterward, they cuddle and talk as is their custom.

  “Jonesy and I have finalized the details, and we think our proposal to the rail company will be taken. Pemberley’s future will be secure. I am satisfied. Jonesy has a real gift for this type of business.”

  “I have enjoyed his visit and his stories. He is lively but never rude nor crass. How does the ton react to him?” Elizabeth wants to know.

  “Like me, he is accepted because he has money and an ancient family. His fortune came from the selling of the family’s lands long ago when London was just coming into being. Someone owned the land before London existed and that someone was Jonesy’s ancestor. Even so, Jonesy would do and say as he pleases without a thought to the ton. Most are not sure what to make of him, but others who are aware of his shrewdness court him for business and backing.”

  “You said he wishes to look for an estate then and settle down? Has he any prospects in mind?”

  “As far as ladies, no. Estates, yes. He has given me the particulars on some nearby estates and agreed to Bingley touring them with us. If an estate does not appeal to him, then it may suit Bingley and your sister. I would welcome Bingley not only because he is a dear friend, but because I need someone to buffer me against Jonesy and Henry’s teasing.”

  “Poor Fitzwilliam. I well remember how Miss Bingley upbraided me and stated you are never to be teased. Perfection was once within your grasp.” Elizabeth toys with his chest.

  Darcy rolls over on top of Elizabeth giving her a consuming kiss. “Perfection is in my grasp, Lizzy. It is you.” Thoughts of Jonesy, estates, and Bingleys are forgotten.

  The day is here when the last of the Christmas visitors make their way to the front doors of Pemberley. Elizabeth is shocked to see Kitty with them, and Jane quickly apologizes to Elizabeth and Darcy on the side explaining once again Mrs. Bennet’s maneuverings forced Charles and Jane to have Kitty accompany them without enough time to send a proper letter asking for Kitty’s inclusion. Kitty is mortified to have come unannounced and uninvited to Mr. Darcy’s home. Darcy’s usual reserve is in place when Kitty approaches the stern man, but Kitty is determined not to be an embarrassment to her older sisters. She curtsies to Darcy and Elizabeth properly, and after Darcy acknowledges her, she addressed him. “Thank you, Sir, for my inclusion into your household during the festive season. Allow me to apologize for not sending you a letter before my coming here. I appreciate your gracious hospitality.” Darcy eyes her with curiosity no doubt wondering where these manners came from. Then some of his stiffness recedes, the corner of his mouth turns up ever so slightly as he welcomes her to Pemberley and bows.

  The Hursts and Miss Bingley come forward to extend their greetings to the waiting group. Darcy’s formality returned as soon as Caroline approached him. Her jealousy is apparent, and she panders to Darcy while ignoring Elizabeth. “Mr. Darcy it is so wonderful to see you again and to be at Pemberley is a true delight. Thank you for your invitation,” she purrs at him and drops her eyes. As Darcy straightens even stiffer at her placating manner and begins to frown, Caroline addresses Elizabeth without removing her eyes from Darcy. “You too Mrs. Darcy, thank you.” With that, she sashays away. Darcy rolls his eyes and pulls Elizabeth closer to him as he addresses the group.

  “The servants stand ready to assist you to your quarters. After you are settled an
d have refreshed yourselves, Mrs. Darcy and I would enjoy a visit with you in the main salon before the evening meal. Thank you.” Darcy escorts Elizabeth to the salon while the others follow the staff up the stairs.

  “Tell me to send them all home and I will. I am after all a most disagreeable man so it would not be unexpected.” Darcy says with a clenched jaw.

  “Fitzwilliam, you would not do such a thing. Our guests are lovely people and have expressed their gratitude for your hospitality. Do not let Caroline vex you so. I will never understand the game she plays, but if no one plays it with her, she will soon fade into the background. I must tell you again how much I love and respect you for allowing Kitty to intrude. I had no idea. Jane apologized, for it appears my mother forced her wishes onto others once again.”

  “Think no more on it. Your sister seems to have gained some sense, and I feel she too was embarrassed about her sudden appearance. We have more than enough room to accommodate her. Besides, you are happy to see her, yes?”

  “Indeed I am. You are as always the best of men, and later I will reward you as is befitting such a man.” Darcy’s smoldering gaze catches Lizzy’s as he pulls her even closer. He has his other half to sustain him, and the thought comforts him as the tension from Caroline’s pandering starts to recede.