A/N: Here's another shortish chapter for you. It may be short, but something momentous takes place which I hope will make up for the brevity of the post! I will, once again, thank everyone who reviewed, followed, and favorited! You light up my life! Seriously. :)

One the third morning of her stay at Pemberley, Darcy asked Elizabeth if she considered herself an accomplished rider.

"Heavens, no!" was her enthusiastic response. "I much prefer my own two feet as a method of transportation."

"If you would like, I would be glad to give you a lesson," Darcy offered.

"That's very kind of you," Elizabeth demurred, "but I'm afraid I wouldn't be a terribly stellar pupil. I must admit, horses rather intimidate me."

"I seem to recall you informing me, not two days past, that your courage always rises with every attempt to intimidate you."

Elizabeth glowered at Darcy in mock indignation. The gentleman only chuckled to himself, feeling rather smug for having gotten the better of Elizabeth, something he knew was no easy task, and he would probably pay for it later.

In lieu of the unwanted riding lesson, Darcy offered to accompany Elizabeth on her morning walk.

"I have very fond memories of our walks at Rosings," he mused. "It is a tradition I believe to be very much worth upholding."

Nodding her head in agreement, Elizabeth allowed Darcy to lead her from the breakfast room into the foyer to collect their outerwear.

Darcy was thanking his lucky stars that Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner hadn't risen as early as he and Elizabeth had, thus granting them additional private time. As they meandered silently around the side of the house into the spacious park, he pondered how right it felt to have her here, in his home, on his arm. He wanted to keep her always there with him, until the end of his days.

He would have been overjoyed if he could have known that Elizabeth's thoughts followed very much the same line as his. In the few short days of her visit, she had become very attached to Pemberley, as well as its owner. One could not completely separate the one from the other. Darcy's good taste and easy dignity were evident in both the appearance and atmosphere of the estate; and the deep, inborn pride he had had in his ancestral home since he was a boy had helped shape Darcy into the responsible and capable man that he was. Elizabeth could easily picture herself ten years into the future doing very much the same thing she was at that moment: strolling the lovely grounds on the arm of her handsome husband.

Not yet, Lizzy! He hasn't even met Mama!

Elizabeth's mental reprimand was accompanied by a visible darkening of her previously cheerful countenance. Darcy couldn't fail to take notice.

"Is anything the matter, Miss Elizabeth?"

Elizabeth's initial instinct was to prevaricate, but she immediately stopped the denial from leaving her lips. Dishonestly would do neither of them any good, and it was, perhaps, better that Darcy learn sooner, rather than later, about her family's embarrassing tendencies.

"To be quite honest, sir, I am a bit nervous about introducing you to my family next week."

"Have you written them to let them know to expect my call?" Darcy asked.

"No, I haven't," Elizabeth answered. She hadn't yet written to her family, not even to Jane, about her relationship with Darcy. Somehow, it did not yet seem real. And, of course, she dreaded the moment her mother found out she had a suitor, let alone a wealthy one. Perhaps it would be better to break the news as early before they traveled to Longborne as possible, to allow Mrs. Bennet to exhaust the worst of her effusions before Darcy was subjected to them. There could be little hope, however, that his appearance wouldn't bring on a fresh round of flutterings and spasms.

Elizabeth decided to write to her father, as well as to Jane, as soon as they returned to the house.

At that rate, the gossip will have spread to every home in Meryton days before he even arrives.

Elizabeth sighed to herself. If Darcy's affections could survive her family's embarrassing tendencies, then he was truly a prince amongst men. At least she could fell confident that Darcy and her father would get on well. They had several things in common, a love of books being the most predominant. If her father could but see Pemberley's library, Darcy would have a devoted friend for life. Jane was also a credit to the family. Her gentle disposition and impeccable manners would go a long way towards assuring that Mr. Darcy felt welcomed rather than assaulted. And then there was Charles with his easy good nature and friendly disposition. He was a credit to her family, as well. Her mother and younger sisters were sure to be a bit much for Darcy, though. For a man used to living alone, all the noise and activity would surely be a shock. The fact that her father couldn't be bothered to check the wild behavior of her younger sisters and the inappropriate ramblings of her mother was unfortunate, for it meant that she would be often occupied with the job herself, leaving her unable to attend her beau as she would like to.

Deciding to make the most of her time at Pemberley while it lasted, Elizabeth tightened her grip on Darcy's arm and smiled warmly up at him. He would find out about her family soon enough - a great deal too soon, in fact. For the time being, he wanted to be with her. If this was all the time they were to be given, she would take full advantage.

To that end, Elizabeth pushed up on her toes and gave him a soft kiss on the cheek. Blushing furiously, she immediately turned her face away, hoping the rim of her bonnet hid her bashful grin.

Darcy's look of surprise quickly altered into one of delight as he felt Elizabeth's soft lips, for only a fleeting moment, touch his cheek.

"What was that for?" he asked kindly, placing his free hand over his where it rested on his arm.

Elizabeth shrugged her shoulders and answered as nonchalantly as she could.

"Well, it wouldn't do for me to kiss your wrist, now would it?"

Darcy grinned knowingly at her smooth evasion of his question. The thought that she had simply wished to show him some affection pleased him very well. It certainly seemed to be the case. Feeling suddenly more confident than he had all week, Darcy steered them out of sight of the house. After only a few moments, they found themselves completely alone, hidden from view by the hedgerows and several large trees.

Needing to act quickly before his courage, once again, deserted him, Darcy stopped walking and took both of Elizabeth's hands in his to turn her towards him. With shaking fingers, he untied the ribbons of her bonnet, then gently pulled it from her head, allowing her sweet chestnut curls to spring free. He held her bonnet in one hand, and brought the other hand up to gently cup her face.

Elizabeth's breath was coming in shallow gasps. Surely he could only mean one thing by removing her bonnet and touching her face in so familiar a manner. She had longed for this moment, but, as is often the case, now that it was upon her she could scarcely enjoy it for the trembling in her limbs. She did want him to kiss her. That small peck she had given him had been a hint, no matter how she would like to deny it. Willing herself to focus on breathing in, then out again, Elizabeth awaited his touch.

Darcy's gaze was fixed on her lips, watching raptly as they parted under his inspection. He could do it. She was clearly willing to permit him this new liberty. Perhaps, in a way, she had even asked for it. But, not for the first time, he allowed doubts to assail his mind. Doubts about his ability to please Elizabeth, to be all that she deserved. Could he please such a spirited young lady...as a lover? Was it right for him to steal what was, in all likelihood, her first kiss, still not knowing if he could truly give her all she deserved?

Then he remembered her sweetness, the gentle squeeze of her hand on his arm, and the fleeting caress of her lips on his cheek. She was watching him expectantly with hooded eyes. He couldn't very well withdraw at that point.

Courage, man.

Forcing his feet to carry him a half-step closer, he tilted her face towards him with his thumb under her chin. He watched her eyes flutter closed before leaning closer, ever so gently allowing his lips to brush against her lovely soft ones. He kissed her very lightly at first, then with a bit more pressure as his confidence grew. She hadn't pulled away. Surely that was a good sign.

The feel of his lips on hers was completely foreign, yet infinitely lovely. Elizabeth could scarcely move at all, so powerful were the feelings coursing through her. All she could seem to do was stand still, willingly offering her lips for his tender attentions.

Darcy kissed her several more times, gently, lightly. Then he carefully took her full lower lip between his and sucked very slightly, allowing his tongue to trace the length of its softness. He tasted peppermint candy and a flavor that must be Elizabeth's own unique essence. He felt her breath caress his face as she gasped slightly in surprise at his boldness. No doubt, he had shocked her sufficiently for one day, and should now return her to the house.

So, Darcy withdrew, watching in mute appreciation of her beauty as Elizabeth's eyes fluttered open, and her tongue darted out over her lips. He wondered if she could taste him on them. The thought evoked urges best suppressed for the time being. Carefully, Darcy replaced Elizabeth's bonnet and watched, still silent, as she tied the ribbons under her chin.

The pair still remained silent as they walked arm in arm back through the garden towards the house, both lost in thoughts of what had passed between them. Only once did they stop for Darcy to carefully pluck a rose from one of the many bushes. He quickly removed the thorns before handing it to Elizabeth, who thanked him with a sweet smile, still too affected to speak.

Breakfast with the Gardiners was pleasant, as always, though Darcy and Elizabeth continued to glance distractedly in each other's direction from time to time. If Elizabeth's relations noticed anything out of the ordinary, they kept it to themselves. After finishing their repast, the party separated to pursue their own activities until luncheon. Before departing for his study, Darcy gently took Elizabeth's hand in his and raised it to his lips for the usual caress. Though he had kissed her thus several times, it felt impossibly more intimate after what had transpired that morning. Elizabeth managed to murmur a parting word or two, though, if asked afterwords, she wouldn't have remembered what she had said.

Acting on her earlier resolve, Elizabeth retired to the privacy of her rooms to compose her letter to Jane. She would write to her father later that evening. Her current state of mind would allow only for the kind of writing she could share with her dearest sister. Papa would have to wait until she was in better command of her feelings.

Dearest Jane, she began.

You must think me terribly remiss in not writing to you of my sojourn in the north until now, but so very much has happened in so short a time that I have scarcely had time to reflect. The Peak District is just as lovely as I imagined, if not even more so. I have enjoyed everything we've seen immensely, but, sweet Jane, the beauty of my surroundings pales in comparison to the news I have to share with you.

Do you remember, when I returned from Kent last spring, I told you of a man I met there named Mr. Darcy? I know I hardly mentioned him at all, but I believe I, at least, managed to divulge that I liked him very well and enjoyed several lively debates with him on various subjects that would bore you to tears, my dear Jane. Of course, you must be wondering why I mention him. The short answer is that I am currently staying at his estate. When we first came to tour Pemberley (is it not a lovely name for a country home?) we were told that Mr. Darcy was not at home. Fate must have had plans for us, however, because Mr. Darcy arrived home while I was trespassing in the private, family gardens!

We were both quite happy to renew the acquaintance. I am infinitely pleased with how kind and welcoming he has been to Aunt and Uncle. He invited us to stay at Pemberley for the week, and it has been simply wonderful. Mr. Darcy has dedicated a good deal of his time each day to our amusement. He really is a most charming host.

I am not sure that I mentioned it before, Jane, but Mr. Darcy is quite the handsomest gentleman I have ever met. He is uncommonly tall with dark hair and eyes, and a pleasing, noble bearing. He is also kind, amiable, and very intelligent. He can be a bit taciturn at times, but I see it as a mark of wisdom that he ensures that he has something worth saying before he speaks. I wish very much for you to meet him, and you shall, dearest Jane, very soon!

He has asked to court me, Jane! I can scarcely believe my good fortune. Mr. Darcy is, in disposition and talents, the man who will suit me best of all. He will come to Longborne, shortly after I return, to speak with Papa. What happens next, I try not to think too much about. I know you cannot be always there, dearest, but I beg you to try all you can to help me keep Mama, Kitty, and Lydia under control while he is visiting. I am so happy! So deliriously, wonderfully happy! And I am so afraid that he will be made terribly uncomfortable by their silliness. Mr. Darcy has lived alone for many years, and is unused to all the noise and activity that surrounds our home. If you can be of any assistance at all, I would be forever in your debt!

Give my love to Charles and little Baby, whom I very much look forward to meeting in a few months' time. I hope you are all well and content at Netherfield. I shall see you soon.

Your affectionate sister,

Elizabeth

Well, you couldn't very well expect Elizabeth's first kiss, and Darcy's first kiss in thirty years, to be all fireworks and no awkwardness, now could you? ;)

Next time, ODC reflect on the new development in their relationship, and, if you're very lucky, maybe even repeat it. See ya' next time!