A/N thank you for your comments. short chapter but I am uploading a few more tonight.
I have been back and fixed a few things in the last few chapters too.
The next few days passed quickly. Elizabeth continued to make a good impression on the ladies and gentlemen of the ton. They attended the theatre on a few occasions and a few other dinners and soirées that Lady Matlock had sanctioned. A few ladies continued to try to unsettle her. Either picking on her background or her 'lucky catch'. Each comment was deflected or a witty retort would re-direct the conversation. It was rare that she was provoked to a direct comment aimed at someone, but these were delivered in such a way that only a few understood that they had actually been insulted. Most people could see how much Mr and Mrs Darcy adored each other and were inclined to leave well alone.
Elizabeth dressed carefully for the Paget ball. Her hair was in a style that was both fashionable and flattering. The dress that she had worn for her wedding was a beautiful silk with fine lace trim. It had been a gift from Lady Matlock and Elizabeth loved it. When she was almost ready Darcy came in to the room.
"Mrs Darcy, you look lovely." He leaned down and kissed her neck.
"Why thank you Mr Darcy." She smiled at him in the looking glass of her dressing table.
"I have something for you" he smiled and presented her with a small stack of velvet boxes.
She looked at him quizzically "why do I deserve a gift?"
"My dear, I reserve the right to give you as many gifts as I chose. You, I believe, swore to obey me and so must accept them."
Elizabeth smiled "of course I must"
She proceeded to open the boxes. They contained a set of diamond earrings matching necklace and bracelet. Some diamond hair pins completed the ensemble.
"Oh Fitzwilliam" Elizabeth breathed "they are lovely"
Darcy smiled. "I had them commissioned for you when you agreed to be my wife"
"Thank you my love. I hardly know what to say" she stood up and kissed him gently before allowing him to place the jewelry on her person. Sliding the pins in to her hair completed the look. Elizabeth felt like she was bursting with love for her thoughtful husband.
"It's not fair sir, you give me so much. What can I do in return for such a gift?" She had started as a tease but he truth of her words made her feel a little sad. Darcy noticed the downturn of her mouth with her declaration. He gathered her gently in to his arms and kissed her softly.
"My love, you bring so much joy to my life. My world was dark before I came upon you and the light you bring me shines more brightly than any gems I give you. I am so grateful that I get to bring you home, both here and to Pemberley. It is I who owe you."
Tears came to Elizabeth's eyes "thank you" she whispered
They stood pressing their foreheads against each other. Each drawing comfort and marveling in their good fortune before stepping apart. Darcy offered Elizabeth his arm and together they descended to meet the Bingleys and travel to the ball.