A/N: Sorry this has taken so long. Darcy is harder to write for me, he's more reserved so I don't have the same freedom I have with the wonderful Elizabeth Bennett. Thank you for all my loyal viewers who are reading this story. I know I keep promising to update soon but sadly annoying things like work and family and friends get in the way!

Enjoy! Xoxo.

Chapter Eleven – The Afternoon Before The Ball

Darcy was drew his eyes away from hers, travelling down to where his hands where on her wrists, his fingers careful to be gentle as they traced the bruised skin. There was silence between them for a moment; he could her pulse fluttering under his thumb. It was apparent that their close proximity had increased her heart rate as much as it had his own. He swallowed and looked back into her eyes, which were moist with unshed tears. Guilt filled him as he pulled away, realising he must have brought traumatic memories to the surface.

Elizabeth put on a polite smile and curtsied. "Good night Mr. Darcy," she said in a quiet voice and retreated down the hall to her room, nearly running.

His eyes stared at the closed door of her bedroom. But instead of going into the washroom he walked quietly over to her bedroom door, standing in front of it, having no idea what his intentions were. He heard the handle move and saw Elizabeth open the door enough to make her face visible, she was apprehensive but smiled as she reached her hand towards him. Sanity left Darcy completely as he stepped into the room and bought his arm around her in one swift move, his other hand cupping her cheek as he kissed her passionately. She gasped and returned the kiss, her arms going around his neck and Darcy pulled her body flush against his. His mouth left her to trail kisses along her jaw, his body immediately responding to the way Elizabeth gasped and pulled herself close to him. He move back to close the door, slamming it with a sharp noise that abruptly woke him.

The noise awoke Darcy with a start, completely disorientating him. The loud bang seemed to have come from his conscious surroundings. He quickly opened his eyes and sat up in his bed, observing a young maid hastily picking up a metal bucket containing firewood.

"I'm so sorry sir," she whispered in fear. "I'm supposed to relight the fire without rousing you."

"It's fine," he replied gruffly, waving a hand to dismiss the girl.

The maid smiled with the relief that she wasn't going to be scolded, and hastily retreated from the room. Darcy lied back down and rubbed his face, relaxing into his surroundings. It was then he realised the maid that had clumsily awoken him had been the very girl who he had seen with Wickham last night. He wondered whether it was the events of the evening that caused him to have such a surprising dream. He'd barely allowed himself to think about her in such a way, but never before had his subconscious betrayed him in such an erotic manner. A manner that even now had his heart racing and chest heaving as he calmed down.

He rose from his bed and walked over to the window, opening it to let the morning breeze cool down his body. After standing at the window gazing at the sea, his mind was cleared and he recalled last night's events with the same disgust he had felt at the time.

After Miss Bennett had retreated to her bedchamber, Darcy had bathed in the common washroom and made his way back to his room. But he was disturbed by whispers and giggles in a darkened corridor. As he approached he could hear heavy breathing and the scene before him was all too familiar. A young couple were engaged in an intimate encounter, one he generally observed in the more squalid parts of London. Darcy quickly recognized the culprit to be none other than Wickham; the girl was dressed in a maid's uniform. Anxious not to be seen and not to observe their encounter become any more explicit, he quickly and quietly departed the corridor and went to his own room before he was noticed.

Darcy had not been surprised by what he had observed the previous night, it was not the first time he'd seen Wickham in such an encounter. Wickham's days at Cambridge had been filled with as much debauched behaviour as Darcy's had been with study and decent behaviour. Indeed Darcy had reproached Wickham's encounters on more than one occasion, only to be reprimanded by Wickham for not acting in the same manner. But Darcy refused to lower his morals and behaviour to such a level, thus beginning the deterioration of their relationship, both knowing the other was not going to change their ways.

Darcy dressed; pondering as he did what he was going to do about Mr. Wickham. He believed the young man wouldn't rule out any risk to meet his own end, which bothered Darcy. Most people would consider the presence of guardians as off putting but Darcy had observed Wickham's behaviour and the officer was quite comfortably charming his way into their good graces. Fortunately the Gardiner's were well aware of who Wickham truly is, what he is capable of. But still, Darcy's presence should have been a successful deterrent. He saw during his stay at Netherfield that Wickham withdrew from any society Darcy was likely to be in. Wickham's behaviour at present was different from that; he was engaging Darcy's company. This made him suspicious of Wickham's motives. Was it possible that Wickham was looking for a new form of revenge?

Darcy dressed in cream trousers and a dark blue jacket before shaving and washing his face. He had risen early but breakfast would soon be served, so he left the guest bedroom and walked downstairs towards a small sitting room that had been offered to the Gardiner's to use at their disposal during their brief visit.

Breakfast was served at nine, when all the party expect for Elizabeth Bennett had arisen. It was served in a modest breakfast room with glass doors which over looked a small park. The guests helped themselves to the buffet breakfast and sat at the dining table, after being informed by the housekeeper that Mrs. Forster before to eat breakfast in her own rooms and the Colonel was exercising his soldiers to take advantage of the fine weather.

After everyone had seated, Darcy engaged Mr. Gardiner in conversation about the fishing available on the coast while the younger Miss Bennett seemed to be explaining in great depths the details of the garments she planned to wear to the Regimental Ball held this evening. Elizabeth Bennett arrived as he was finishing his bacon and eggs, the gentlemen stood when she entered the room.

"Good morning," Elizabeth said with a warm smile as she entered the room.

"Good morning, Lizzie dear," Mrs. Gardiner replied. "It is unlike you to sleep so late."

As Elizabeth opened her mouth to reply, Lydia stood abruptly, nearly causing her chair to fall backwards as the younger lady glared viciously at her sister. The elder Miss Bennett didn't falter at the intense stare, but looked concerned as she stepped towards her.

"I think I will go see how Harriet is this morning," Lydia said, walking past her sister. Elizabeth reached out to grab her arm, saying her name but the younger Miss Bennett threw her arm out of reach and slammed her way out of the room.

"Sisterly quarrels are we to assume Lizzy?" Mr. Gardiner said cheerily. "I'd recognise squabbling siblings anywhere, we've seen enough at home, haven't we dear," he looked at his wife who nodded but looked at Elizabeth with concern.

"What happened Lizzy?" Mrs. Gardiner asked.

Elizabeth looked at the gentlemen, her cheeks becoming flushed as she sat in the seat vacated by her immature sister beside her Aunt. "It's something we need to discuss," Elizabeth replied quietly, looking at her Aunt.

"Say no more," Mr. Gardiner intervened. "Gentlemen can see a feminine conversation when it's approaching, we shall leave you to discuss it in private. Mr. Darcy and I were going to go fishing and we'd best leave early to get the best catch."

Darcy stood with Mr. Gardiner and bowed politely at the two ladies, his eyes lingering on Elizabeth's as he said goodbye and left the room.

Darcy had actually managed to enjoy himself to a degree; Mr. Gardiner's company was indeed enlightening. He was an intelligent man who eagerly spoke about a variety of subjects, Darcy found himself strangely at ease with the older gentleman. Darcy had rarely felt at ease with people he didn't know intimately, or for a considerable amount of time.

It wasn't until the journey home that Darcy felt he needed to bring up a more delicate subject he wished he could postpone. "Mr. Gardiner, have you spoken with Colonel Forster regarding the nature of our hastily visit?"

"Indeed I have," Mr. Gardiner replied, his expression serious. "I spoke to him upon our arrival in more detail yesterday when I had the chance to be alone with the Colonel."

"May I ask what information you have learnt regarding Mr. Wickham and your niece?" Mr. Darcy asked, a little embarrassed to be questioning a man on a subject he had no direct business knowing.

Mr. Gardiner showed that he had taken no offense and replied, "The Colonel told me he definitely believed there is some partiality on Lydia's part, but nothing to give him any true concern. His reason for cautioning my brother in law was he had become aware that when the militia left Meryton Mr. Wickham left several tradesmen and businessmen alike out of pocket. He has left debts behind in Meryton, not to mention rumours regarding daughters in the village families." The older man cleared his throat. "The Colonel wasn't specific, but I know that he doubts Wickham's character."

Darcy nodded and looked out the window, his fears confirmed. "It would be best if Wickham was removed from your family's general acquaintance before his indiscretions become public knowledge," he suggested, looking at Mr. Gardiner.

"I must confess not to share your fears Mr. Darcy," Mr. Gardiner replied. "I can't see a man who is in that kind of financial situation to form a design on a girl who has very little chance of income and who is by no means friendless, who is actually staying with the Colonel's family. I believe that you and Elizabeth have reasoned to be concerned, but I don't believe there is any danger of Wickham actually setting his cap at a girl like Lydia."

"Perhaps you are right in saying that I am overreacting, Mr. Gardiner," Darcy admitted. "But you understand that my contempt for the man and the responsibility I feel for not making his true character known to the world compels me to do whatever I must to prevent him bringing misfortune to any family."

"Mr. Darcy a man like Mr. Wickham would find ways of meeting his needs," Mr. Gardiner reasoned. "You cannot blame yourself for another man's character."

Darcy was silent, appreciative of Mr. Gardiner's confidence but unyielding in his belief of his own wrongdoing. He gazed at the ocean, the fine weather making the water an attractive azure blue. He'd rarely travelled to the coast so it wasn't a sight he was use to.

Perhaps this venture would give him the opportunity to remove Mr. Wickham from his life once and for all. But at the present, the most important thing was to keep Elizabeth and her family safe from the man.

As he read the younger man's thoughts, Mr. Gardiner suddenly remarked thoughtfully. "My niece Elizabeth has certainly taken this situation badly."

Mr. Darcy looked at Mr. Gardiner with surprise. "She is concerned for her family."

"Indeed," Mr. Gardiner agreed mildly. "I believe a lot of her concern is also for you."

"Miss Elizabeth is of a very independent nature," Mr. Darcy struggled to keep his expression and tone nonchalant as she spoke about her. "She didn't believe it necessary for me to accompany you to Brighton; I believe she feels a sense of guilt that I am here." He couldn't prevent himself from thinking that her guilt could also be mixed with disgust that she was forced to endure his company.

Mr Gardiner also almost as though he was smirking as he observed Mr. Darcy. "Yes," he said at last. "That must be her concern." After a brief moment of silence, Mr. Gardiner continued. "But the service you rendered her would endure you naturally to her." Upon observing Mr. Darcy's expression of confusion he explained his comment. "Finding her when she took a fall at Pemberly, taking it upon yourself to see she was well. Anyone would be indebted to you for such a kindness."

He felt his expression darken as he recalled that evening's events will revolt. No matter how many times he thought about it, the frightened look in her beautiful eyes continued to run a chill down his spine. Darcy recollected himself when he saw Mr. Gardiner's confused expression.

"I merely did what any gentleman would in that situation; Miss Bennet is the last person to be indebted to me." He replied.

Mr. Gardiner said no more on the subject. As soon as Darcy returned to the house, his first concern was establishing Wickham's movements for the day. While it was in his power, being the man's shadow was the best way Darcy could keep track of his behaviour and actions, even if there was little he could do about it. Darcy was able to confirm with the housekeeper that Wickham was with the soldiers involved in training exercises all day, returning in the early evening to prepare for and then attend the ball being held at the house.

He adjourned to the library with the intention of writing a letter to Georgiana. He missed his sister already and was aware that she had been surprised and suspicious by their sudden departure. He wanted to reaffirm the story they had told her before her imagination ran wild. He walked through the first floor of the large Georgian house to the library, which was considerably smaller than Pemberly's. Indeed, it appeared to be smaller in comparison to the house and the fortune of those residing. Perhaps the army didn't feel a decent library was necessary in their Colonel's homes.

Only two windows graced the room, the two of them situated on the northern wall and the view offered nothing but an adequate garden view. None the less it met his needs and he sat at a small writing desk on the opposite, finding parchment and ink in the drawer.

He lost track of the time while he wrote a kind letter to his sister, hoping she wasn't lonely at Pemberly and that he would be joining her as soon as his "business" allowed his absence.

Darcy was brought out of his solitude by the fast and loud opening of the door and it quickly closing. He quickly turned in his seat to see Elizabeth leaning against the door, panting slightly and her face blushing with embarrassment. Darcy quickly stood.

"Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth said with surprise. "Forgive me I didn't realise you were here."

"Not at all, Miss Bennett," Darcy replied at once. "I am only writing a letter. Do not feel you must leave." He kept his tone civil but smiled a little.

The sound of footsteps from the floor above sent both their eyes to the ceiling.

"I must stay, if only to claim sanctuary for a little while," she replied with an exasperation. She walked over to the closest bookshelf and stood in front of it to read the titles.

"I don't understand," Darcy toned his answer in a way that made it a question and Elizabeth looked back at him.

"My younger sister," she replied, at first as though that was a sufficient answer. "She is rather trying to be around when a social occasion draws near."

"I see," Darcy replied, sitting back down at his writing desk. "Many young ladies find an approaching ball a very pleasing event."

"That is true," Elizabeth replied firmly. "But that is no excuse for demanding anything from anyone else. My sister not only wants to be perfection herself, but insists everything around her be to her taste."

Darcy couldn't help but smile at the rebellious look that was currently gracing her face as she selected a book and sat on a nearby lounge.

"Younger siblings quite often don't learn patience and sharing, as they are more likely to be spoilt by their mothers," he commented calmly once he was no longer smiling.

"Doesn't mean I should be expected to yield to her every demand. Mr. Darcy, are you suggesting that I am in the wrong in this matter?"

Darcy's eyes shot up at her insulted tone, but was reassured by an amused smile and laughter in her deep eyes.

"Any sensible man would never dream of getting involved in an argument between sisters," he replied, smiling as he spoke.

"And I suppose any sensible man, who knows me as you do, would know better than to contradict me?" Elizabeth added mischievously.

"I think you know Miss Bennett, that contradicting you as never been a fear of mine," he answered.

"Perhaps," she conceded. She went to say something else but she was interrupted by the door swinging open and her sister bounding.

"Lizzy you little sneak. Surely you must have known the library was the first place I would look!" Lydia exclaimed in triumph, walking over to her sister and grabbing her hands.

Mrs. Gardiner followed her younger niece into the room calmly, bowing at Mr. Darcy before turning to her nieces. "Lydia do not push your sister any further or you will have me to answer to young lady."

"But she is being as ridiculous!" Lydia declared with a pout and a stamp of her foot, behaviour Darcy hadn't seen in anyone above the age of four years.

He watched in shock as Lydia pulled up the sleeves of Elizabeth's gown with frustration, further exclaiming. "What does it matter if you were bruised in a silly fall? You simply can't wear long sleeves at a ball!"

Darcy felt a wave of empathic embarrassment sweep over him at the look on Elizabeth's face. She turned a deep shade of red and tried to pull her arms away from her sisters. He understood immediately why showing bruises meant more to her than one might expect. But he was the only one who could possibly understand.

"That beautiful white gown you own would be perfect for tonight," Lydia pleaded in an immature whine.

"I said I didn't want to," Elizabeth replied angrily. "Do not concern yourself on what I am wearing, Lydia. Perhaps you should spend the afternoon learning how to better conduct yourself in a sensible manner."

Elizabeth had as she predicted lost her nerves with her sister. She abruptly stood, politely excused herself and left the room, leaving Darcy to listen to Lydia complaints to her Aunt and to ponder Elizabeth's awkward situation. Darcy felt compelled to do something.

A/N: Next Chapter is in Lizzy's point of view and will be the Ball. Expect a forced dance between her and Wickham, watched by Darcy. A surprise confronation between two of our main characters, (not saying who). Plus a twist I have been saving for just the perfect moment. :) xoxo