Author's Note: Wow! So much feedback! I am constantly blown away by all of you! You are the best! Because I'm posting this within a week of my last update, I do want to encourage all of you to go back and make sure you read chapter 5! I have through chapter 9 written so post editing, it is pretty likely that I will be updating frequently so if you aren't like me and on here checking on my follows on the daily (thank you FF Net app!) Be sure you are checking the previous chapter(s) to be sure you've read them!

I will say that a few of you did guess Felicity's secret, and the rest of you will find out what it is in this chapter! Hopefully it will...you know what? Actually no, I'm not going to say any more about that. Just read it:) (And review!)

Oh. Also a lot of you were hoping for a second guess in this chapter...but you find out in this chapter what the secret is so that would be a tad bit pointless. If you guys are enjoying the guessing or would like other games included in my postings, let me know! I'll be sure to cook up a few things:)

Also, Also - and this is pretty important - a few of you are pretty upset with me that I've relagated our dear Lizzy to the status of Mistress and have taken it upon yourselves to remind me the horrible things that women had to deal with in this time period. I am totally with you - it was AWFUL! - and I know that I too would probably be a bit sad to read a story about a woman who has to face any of those punishments/consequences! SO - please don't worry! I am not planning on writing them being caught or Lizzy being disgraced! This is a fun story, I promise! As far as Lizzy is concerned, the angstyness is mainly over! I also do want to say for those who are REALLY upset about Lizzy being a mistress, that maybe this story isn't for you. I will be so sad to see you go but there is so much fanfic content that is right up your ally, and TBH, I concocted this with a half idea of how awful it would be if Darcy had already married, and a desire to write a lot of smut. Like...A LOT. That is gonna be the main focus from here on out and if you aren't into that, I'd suggest you go on to see what your other fav. fics are up to.

I love you all! Thanks so much for messaging me and reviewing! (Us writers get lonely with only our fictional characters for company - it's good hear from real humans!) Sorry for the long Author's NOte, but I did just write you 3500+ words in the chapter and post after only three days so...I think we're even? Anyway - hugs and wishes, DT

Elizabeth Bennet

My mother was nothing less than confused at my sudden declaration that I had taken a position as a gentlewoman's companion. In the beginning, she was against it, considering it the mark of a spinster to take employment. That was until at the wedding breakfast, Mrs. Darcy read her like a book, saw her apprehension, and instantly smoothed it over with talk of my being her particular friend, and her wanting to both provide for me, for the eventuality of my certain marriage. I even heard her mention quietly that it was her intention to make me a staple, a regular and fixed part of her social group, and then use my position to put me in the way of gentlemen of that caliber. My mother ceased her complaints instantly after that. I didn't dare look at Fitzwilliam throughout the morning. My nerves were flighting enough without that addition. Instead, I graciously accepted my father's congratulations and blessing, and my sister Lydia's abundant thank yous that I'd added to her dowry. The red coats had left the area, but I was certain that she'd find another young man who'd catch her eye. Between father's small contribution, and the doubled amount of Mr. Bingley's generosity, she was no worth nearly 4000 pounds upon marriage. She was a good match and could chose where she wished. I had pulled her aside and warned her that she may now be prey to fortune hunters. The importance of such an occurrence excited her greatly and she swore up and down that it was her fortune and no man would swindle her out of it. I suggested that if she were to receive a gentleman's attention, she might ask her brothers in law and her papa to investigate on the content of their character. She agreed instantly, thrilled by the prospect of having so many people care about her so much. She was young and mayhaps foolish, but she would learn and grow, and with his other daughters out of the house, papa would have no choice but to watch her closely and be sure she didn't get into too much trouble. After wishing Kitty and her new husband well, Mrs. Darcy suggested that I do the same and become ready to depart. We would go to their London home immediately, and then after taking in some of the sights of the town and settling me into my role as her companion with a full ladies wardrobe, we would depart for Pemberley. They were being far more than generous, but upon my protestations, Felicity said this was normal for most companions, and that even if it were not, I was providing her a service worth far, far more. She saw my discomfort at that and confidently, shook her head and took my hand.

"We are in for many years together. We shall be in each others company often and we shall be far more than intimately acquainted with one another. I intend to be as close to you as any one of your sisters are, and we shall be, as I told your mother particular friends. I wish us to be close, and in private, censored speech will simply not do." After that, I made an effort to be more candid and less coy about even those things which had nothing to do with our particular situation. We were to be close. We were to be in a position very few ever found themselves in. It wouldn't do to be hiding things from one another.

After Mrs. Darcy, Mr. Darcy, and I were loaded into the carriage, we made an effort to remain silent on any subject of a delicate nature for at least a mile or two. It would do no one any good to be overheard. It was Felicity who made first mention of our plan.

"We seem to have left behind those who may attempt to overhear the speakings inside of our carriage. Let us be frank. I wish to discuss any rules and norms we shall have as we enter this arrangement." Mr. Darcy glanced away, swallowing hard, appearing very uncomfortable. "First and foremost, Miss Bennet, you must call me Felicity. Formality will not do."

"Indeed." I surmised. "And you shall call me Elizabeth."

"Very good. The awkwardness is out of the way then."

"That was what was awkward about this?" Mr. Darcy asked incredulously.

"Hush dear, the ladies are talking." Felicity cut him off with a wink and a smile towards me. "Elizabeth as I've said before, we are to be particular friends, I shall stand for nothing less. I want you to be comfortable confiding in me and in an effort to make that possible, I shall confide in you. I should like to accompany you to your fittings at the modiste, it would be well for us to begin growing in comfort with one another and in addition, I will be able to tell you what you shall need to wear as my companion." I nodded.

"I should like to get to know you better, Felicity."

"Very good! Now I think it is on all of our minds, it will do none of us any good if this gets out, so in public, we are to be the epitome of grace, elegance, and propriety."

"You don't need to tell us that." Fitzwilliam interjected.

"Likely not, but it bears repeating." She returned. "In private, the two of you are welcome to do whatever you like, alone, or with me present. Though I must admit I'd prefer not to be in the room as you actually-"

"Felicity!" Fitzwilliam cut her off. She smiled mischievously. I started at that. I never took her for the sort to have a mischievous side.

"Good. We are all in understanding. As it stands, when it is just the three of us, please do not stand on ceremony or worry about hurting me. As I've said, I am in no way in love with you Fitzwilliam, my feelings will not even be scratched. It would please me to see you both happy." She took a breath and then continued. "The two of you of course shall work out what is between you on your own, I understand it is a private conversation and one I do not need to be a part of. Of course Georgiana and the children should not know, but as Elizabeth will be a part of their lives for a long time, she should certainly be allowed any amount of contact she would like with them. I know that Georgiana adores you and I'm certain that should you wish to spend time with the children, they would as well."

"I..." I trailed off, unsure of how to respond. "Georgiana is a very dear girl and I should very much like to be in her company often if that is alright with you Fitzwilliam."

"I should prefer it." He replied warmly.

"I..." again, I lost the nerve to finish that part of the thought.

"Perhaps you would like to settle into your role before deciding how much contact to have with Victor and Lily later on." I nodded immediately.

"Indeed that seems the best course of action."

"Very good." She paused and looked around. "Elizabeth, would you like to switch seats with me? You may sit beside Fitzwilliam then and I might be able to stretch out and rest." After a pause and a missed heartbeat of excitement, I nodded and we moved to exchange places. Felicity closed her eyes and nestled into her seat. As soon as her eyes were shut, Fitzwilliam wove his fingers into mine and brought my hand to his lips for a kiss. It took all of five minutes before my feelings allowed me to curl into his side, my head resting on his shoulder, his arm wrapped tightly around me. With that scent that was inexplicably Fitzwilliam wrapping around me, I took lilted off to sleep.

Fitzwilliam Darcy

I stared down at the girl in my arms and wondered for the millionth time how I could be so lucky. We were a few miles from London and I'd have to rouse her to switch places with Felicity soon, but I wanted to prolong this moment as long as I could. The days past must have been trying for her, and I knew she hadn't been sleeping well. Not to mention, of course, that traveling itself was quite tiring and she needed this sleep.

"She is lovely. Fitzwilliam." Felicity spoke quietly so as not to rouse Elizabeth. "And witty, and brilliant, and kind, and she has a fire in her that I hope she will ignite in you." I didn't know how to respond to that. What was the protocol on replying as your wife compliments your mistress. I had to bite back the grin of happiness, as the word filled me with great calm and pleasure. She was my mistress, she was mine.

"Yes." I responded simply.

"I can see why you fell for her. I just wanted to say... I approve of her. I approve of this. I am happy that you are happy again, and I will do all I can to retain her."

"Felicity, I don't know what to say."

"A first for you, I'm sure." She replied wryly. "However I think it best that we too promise to be more frank with one another. While in public we must maintain that air of sophistication and well thought out language, I hardly think that necessary between the two of us. If you find yourself unsure of what you should say, simply say how you think and feel without thought to how it will make you appear. I do believe that this may help our relationship intensely." Curious. Perhaps I may try just that.

"Thank you then, for bringing her with, and for your blessing."

"There is nothing to thank for. I am happy. This is good. Now wake her, we will need to change seats again."

Elizabeth Bennet

Upon our arrival to Darcy House in London, Felicity took my arm and led me in, introducing me to all the staff as her particular friend and new companion. She mentioned that we would spend the next day shopping for my essentials and then a few other trinkets, but that for the foreseeable future, I would be present and my presence should be seen as commonplace. She told them that she wished me to be close to her at all times, and that they should ready the Oak room for my use while I was in attendance at Darcy House. As we departed their company and she began to tour me about the place, she mentioned quietly that any decorations I wished be brought in or removed would be done so without worry, and that as this was my home now, I shouldn't consider it an issue. She also added quietly that the Oak room was connected to her own room.

"Darcy House has an interesting layout. Before the Darcy's bought it, generations ago, what is now the Oak room was for a sickly son of the couple who built it. His room was directly connected to both of his parent's suites, which, as is the custom, were also connected. The passageways were private so that the parents could tend to their child without too many servants knowing of his needs and oddities." She smiled at me. "What I am saying of course, is that while it is known that the room connects to mine and as such, it will not be considered anything out of the ordinary for you to inhabit it, the room also runs directly to Fitzwilliams room. This will allow the two of you private access without any of the servants knowledge." I flushed and Felicity grinned at my reaction.

"How innocent are you? Well I do imagine it will not remain thusly much longer. As it is, no such passageway exists to Fitwilliam's rooms at Pemberley beyond mine and I can hardly switch rooms with you without creating suspicion to the point of complete knowledge of the staff and while I trust them, I do think it would do well to be a bit more sure of ourselves. While we are here, we shall have to drum up a solution for our return their."

"Thank you, Felicity." She waved her hand. "It is nothing. Come. Let us change our clothing and be off to the modiste! They are still open and we shall be able to put the initial order in immediately!" We retreated to our rooms and I saw that my small trunk had been brought in and placed, open, at the foot of my bed - a spectacular furnishing that was indeed made of Oak - with a green dress placed atop. I put it on immediately but nearly jumped in shock when someone opened the door amidst my dressing.

"Excuse my lateness, Miss Bennet." The girl curtseyed and smiled. "I didn't know you were already heading back, Mrs. Darcy only just told me. My name is Elsie, I'll be your personal maid."

"My personal maid?" I asked in shock.

"Yes Miss. I will be here to help you bathe, dress, and ready yourself for any event. I was one of Mrs. Darcy's undermaids, but she thought I deserved the promotion, you see. I'm nothing short of thrilled to be your chief maid."

"Oh." I said nodding. "I must admit, I've never had my own maid, my sisters and I have always shared one, and beyond that we simply help each other."

"Truly? Well I am happy to be of service. Anything you need beyond what a maid could do, tell me anyway and I can find you someone to help." I nodded.

"Thank you Elsie. Mrs. Darcy and I were about to leave for the modiste. I am simply changing my dress."

"Yes Miss. I am here to help you." Within a quarter hour, I was in the green dress, and my hair had been styled in an intricate updo. Elsie insisted that it would be best, as I would likely be trying on sample dresses and I didn't want a lower hair style to get caught up as the stylists were helping me. I agreed to whatever she suggested and found myself partaking in a rub of smelling salts of sorts which gave me a rather floral scent. Soon enough, Mrs. Darcy and I were back in the carriage as Fitzwilliam retreated into his office to catch up on some work. Before we left, the three of us ensconced ourselves in the large room and Felicity busied herself with her bag as he kissed me goodbye, quite thoroughly.

The afternoon passed rather pleasantly, as Felicity showed a side of her I didn't quite expect. She was charming, and altogether far more high-spirited than I would have guessed and much more playful and teasing than I had ever seen her. She seemed to be taking her promise to be truly herself with me much more seriously. After ordering far too many dresses, accessories, and other necessities, we found ourselves chatting away on the way to our last stop.

"Undergarments, Elizabeth." She'd said as we'd departed the last store. "You may have what you need but as a mistress, there are other things that you may desire, or even more so, that he may desire, and I am determined to treat you as another thank you for what you are doing."

"Felicity, you are doing far more for me than I for you." I protested.

"On the contrary. I told you before, You are my confidant, and you shall find that I am in sore need of you."

"A woman such as yourself has many friends," I insisted. "I fail to see how you could not find one among them to confide in." She grew quiet for a moment and taking a deep breath, began to answer.

"What you say is true, however there are things I am unable to say to even my closest of friends. You seem to understand, however, that we may do anything for love." I nodded.

"Yes. Of course."

"May I tell you my first secret, Elizabeth? I need your utmost assurance that this will stay between us."

"I shall take it to my grave, Felicity." I swore.

"I am not attracted to my husband the way a wife tends to be. When we first got married, I saw that many of my friends felt the same way and I didn't see anything wrong with how I felt. Many women in my circle do not marry for love, I was simply another choosing to marry for security and contentment instead. I was happy with my choice, and I still am, but I have since learned something about myself that explains my lack of love for Fitzwilliam." She took a deep breath. "I am not attracted to my husband, Elizabeth, but there are others that I do feel that way for."

"I see. You have fallen in love yourself." I took a deep breath and smiled. This was not so bad. Indeed she even understood my predicament.

"No. I have not fallen in love, I have simply been...attracted to others." She paused a moment, flushing. "Other women, Elizabeth." I had to repeat what she'd said in my head a few times before it sunk in. I had heard about this, men and women finding comfort and love in the arms of someone of their own gender. It was said to be a sin, but I failed to see the sin in love of any kind, though perhaps that had something to do with my own love.

"I see I have shocked you now, Miss Bennet." Felicity spoke with a teasing tone that didn't reach her eyes. She was withdrawing. She believed me to hate her now, to be disgusted by her revelation, but I found that I could not be.

"Felicity." I began taking her hand in mine. "I believe we decided you would call me Elizabeth."

"You are not appalled." It was neither a question nor a statement, but rather a sentiment of shock, something which crossed the line between query and comment.

"Am I to be disgusted by love? I would be quite the hypocrite if I was. Besides, you are my particular friend, and I have no intention of judging you where you have not judged me." She threw her arms around me and pulled me into a hug.

"My dear friend you have no idea how long I've wished to say this aloud. I have been fraught with fear of your disdain, but I now know that what I said, about our friendship and how you are to be like a sister to me will come to pass."

"I am happy to be your confidant, Felicity. As you are mine."

"Indeed!" She grinned. "Come now, let us buy you undergarments that shall make your love drool all over himself and then we shall retreat to Darcy House for dinner, after which I will finally be able to rest happily and you, will finally lose some of that innocence." I flushed again, much to her delight and she let out a peal of laughter. I look forward to many years of friendship, Elizabeth."

"As do I, Felicity."

A/N: So for those of you who haven't figured it out yet...you really don't need to be worried about Felicity:) From here on out, she and Lizzy are going to be friends, a family unit of sorts. I promise that we can all breath a bit easier. I had to push back the smut another chapter because this was getting really, really long, but I promise I'll post soon so you won't have to wait that long for it! I hope you are all enjoying - thank you all so much for the feedback and encouragement and suggestions! I really appreciate it! You guys are the best and I hope you are enjoying my story. xoxo - Devilishly Tempting

P.S. Also - I haven't decided if I'm including Wickham in this. If you have a preference one way or the other, please let me know!