Drifting On
"Oh, she was such a surprise. And two days after Christmas! Imagine that! She looks just like her mother and I always said that Jane did take after my side of the family," Mrs. Bennet beamed, staring fondly at her new granddaughter. "To be sure, the child is simply an angel. She never cries nor fusses. Just sleeps and smiles all day. I am quite sure even Jane was not as calm. I remember you had such a rough time with Charlotte, but no doubt Mina takes after our side of the family. She is much quieter than dear Charlotte ever was."
The child under discussion shattered the speech with her own shrill cries and belied any claim to perfection that Mrs. Bennet would bestow on her. Lady Lucas bore Mrs. Bennet's disparaging remarks with a practiced air of indifference and used the distraction to quirk an eyebrow and join in her daughter's conversation. Charlotte was praising the portrait Georgiana had painted of Mina, who had been left in the care of the nurse for the day, as they felt another journey in the winter weather would not be advisable. This was their first visit to Netherfield and the newest Bingley was but three weeks old. She had a trace amount of blonde hair and her eyes were still blue. Jane gently rocked the cradle at her feet, unable to stop watching the precious child for any length of time. Bingley, the doting father, would appear at her side every few minutes to check on the child and see if anything was needed.
"Bingley, why in Heaven's name did you and Jane give your daughter that particular name?" Darcy asked teasingly. "You have cursed yourselves. If she is anything like her aunt, she will be a wild thing that you will be helpless to control!"
The party laughed while Elizabeth gave him a swat on his arm. "You had best mind yourself, or you shall truly see how little we can be controlled."
"I think Elizabeth is a lovely name," Maria Lucas offered.
"See?" Elizabeth countered to her husband, crinkling her nose at him.
"But why Lily?" Lady Lucas asked kindly, effectively preventing Mrs. Bennet from offering her own insights.
Bingley swallowed. "It was my mother's name."
After a brief pause he continued. "Besides, we did not wish to give her a very long name, especially as she is such a little person."
Elizabeth shot a wicked grin at her husband whose eyes widened when he realized what she was about to do.
"That is very true. Imagine having the name Fitzwilliam George Walter Cyrus Barnaby Darcy."
Bingley guffawed and the whole party erupted in laughter as Darcy hid his head in his hands.
"Touché, madam," he mumbled in his disgrace.
"I did warn you," she replied calmly, patting his arm in a form of comfort.
A short while later, their meeting was broken by the soft cries of Elizabeth Lily Bingley herself. Jane scooped her up in her arms and rocked her before excusing herself. Bingley followed her out, and did not return before the guests left.
"Did they really leave before luncheon?" Bingley asked in surprise as he settled down to the meal. "Jane will be down shortly," he added in reply to Elizabeth's questioning gaze.
"Yes, thanks to the combined effort of Lady Lucas and Mr. Bennet," Elizabeth replied, Kitty laughing loudly at the remembrance. "They were most effective is ushering Mama out the door."
"Well, all's well that ends well, I suppose," he stated. A manservant brought in the mail and Darcy noticed a thick letter from his secretary in town.
"Where is Mama?" Jane asked as she entered the dining room. The party laughed and repeated the tale.
"The Hurst's are arriving this afternoon, are they not?" Georgiana asked after a time.
"Yes," Miss Bingley immediately answered. "And Mr. Grantley is to be joining them. Are you sure the proper guest room has been prepared for him, Charles? He should have nothing less than the best."
Bingley masked his disdain well and assured her that all had been taken care of.
"Still, I should like to have Mrs. Fanning show me the room, just to be sure. Have you moved into Miss Bennet's room, dear Georgiana?" Caroline continued in her haughty manner.
"Yes, Miss Bingley," Georgiana replied, tactfully ignoring the insult and trying not to laugh at the rude faces Kitty was making.
"I swear," Kitty declared as they left the dining room. "If I have to hear one more word about Mr. Grantley's dinner preferences, I'll go mad! Honestly! The man has not even arrived and I wish him harm."
"Kitty!' Georgiana exclaimed in shock, though unable to withhold the laughter that had been threatening to burst the entire time they had listened to Miss Bingley's monologue.
The pair vented as they journeyed upstairs to ready themselves for the brief ride they had been planning since the day before. Elizabeth cheerfully stated that she was unable to join them and decided to visit her sister instead. She made her way to the nursery where the little Elizabeth lay sleeping in her cradle. Jane spent nearly every spare minute there, simply watching her child. Elizabeth found her perched on a chair, her delicate foot gently rocking her child's cradle. The nurse dearly appreciated the respite of caring for such a demanding child and encouraged her mistress in this pursuit.
"Jane?" Elizabeth whispered, wondering if it was wise to venture into the dimly lit room.
"Come in, Elizabeth," Jane answered with a smile, the firelight half-illuminating her tired face. The month of confinement had sapped a lot of strength from her as she doggedly looked after her daughter as best she could. Even with an army of servants behind her, she could not fully trust anyone else with the little Elizabeth. As a result, she grew highly protective of her daughter. The servants, like the nurse, were eager to encourage her and took advantage of it at every opportunity.
"How is she?" Elizabeth asked after she was settled on a chair opposite her sister. She loosened her shawl after discovering the immense heat of the fire.
"She is finally sleeping and all is well. I do not understand why she fusses so much. Mr. Jones and the midwife cannot explain it. It could be colic, but I believe it is a bit too soon to know about that," Jane rambled, her eyes fighting sleep and focusing solely on her daughter.
"Perhaps it is because she knows Mama will always be there to soothe her?" Elizabeth teased gently.
"You shall see when you have your own children, Lizzy," Jane warned with a knowing smile, though it faltered at the downcast look on Elizabeth's face. "Do not worry, Lizzy. It will all happen in good time."
Elizabeth gave a small smile that Jane knew to be not genuine. "As it should. 'Good things come to those who wait,' is it not?"
"Yes, Lizzy. But it is not something to be ashamed of, you know," Jane continued, giving her sister a comforting look. "Plenty of women do not have children before they have been married for at least three years."
"Thank you, Jane," Elizabeth replied with an air of finality. She knew the truth as well as Jane did, but it did not help the sense of inferiority or failure when each passing month revealed she was no sooner to be blessed with her own child.
After a few minutes, Elizabeth broached a subject that had preyed on her since the mail arrived. "Did you receive any mail from Lydia?"
Jane looked up in concern. "Yes, but I have not had the chance to open it yet."
"Would you mind reading it? I believe it to be of some importance. I will gladly watch my namesake for you," Elizabeth added with a twinkle in her eye for the nervous Mama.
"Very well," Jane answered, reluctantly leaving her daughter and returning in record time.
Once she settled back in the chair and checked that her daughter had not moved in the few seconds she was gone, Jane opened the letter and held it in the light. As she read, a crease formed on her tired forehead and she let out a sigh.
"Poor Lydia," she sighed again as she finished the letter and looked up at Elizabeth.
"What does she write?" Elizabeth asked.
"She writes to ask for some monetary assistance. Apparently Mr. Wickham's regiment is moving further North, but they have incurred some debt-"
"Mainly in procurement of a nurse for their son?" Elizabeth finished, meeting Jane's shocked eyes. "Yes, she wrote the same to me."
"You do not think their claim is genuine," Jane replied, more as a statement than a question.
"I do not doubt that they have incurred debt, but whether it is truly for their son I highly doubt. To be asking for at least 400 pounds, they must have incurred more than just a nurse for their son. I have no doubt in my mind that they have been exceeding their income in a gross manner. They are both accustomed to living far above their present station."
"That is true, Lizzy, but we cannot always fault them for their previous flaws. How can we give the opportunity to improve themselves if we always doubt them?" Jane replied thoughtfully, tucking a blanket back under her daughter.
"I would prefer to see them earn our trust by maintaining their income and not constantly begging for money. In her letter congratulating me on my marriage, Lydia openly asked for money or a different employment for Wickham. Fitzwilliam and I had such an argument when he saw that letter," Elizabeth remembered, shaking her head.
"A argument?" Jane echoed perplexedly. "I'm sure it was nothing serious, Lizzy. You must have made up in half an hour."
Jane stopped as Elizabeth shook her head. "No, it was more like a couple of days."
"Days!" Jane exclaimed in shock. "My goodness!"
"Fitzwilliam and I are both very obstinate when we wish to be, Jane. Neither of us felt in the wrong and it was the first time either of us had been really upset over something."
"I understand," Jane replied. "Charles and I had a bit of a fight once. His steward had just given him a very grim report on the state of things here at Netherfield and I insisted on bothering him with a trifling question. He snapped at me and I felt so wretched that I went to the parlor and cried. He came and found me in less than a quarter hour to apologize and he felt so horrible. He was most especially kind to me for days after that."
Elizabeth smiled as she marveled at her sister's naïveté. Only Jane would have regarded such a small event as worthy of the status of argument.
"I am quite sure he was," was all she managed to say on that topic.
Jane nodded. "We have such a hard time agreeing on things. It is a miracle little Elizabeth did not end up with a long list of names. Neither of us wishes to hurt the other by out rightly refusing a name and we each wished the other's choice to be first. If it was not for both of our high regard for you, she would yet not have a name," Jane smiled.
"Then I am heartily glad my assistance was not limited to just the donation of a name," Elizabeth replied with a cheeky smile.
They lapsed into silence for a brief few moments before the child woke up. Jane instantly jumped to her and tried to soothe her. Soon realizing the child was hungry, she kindly asked for some privacy, which Elizabeth granted after blushing a bright shade of red. Leaving the room, she meandered into the general vicinity of the library, which she knew Fitzwilliam had commandeered. She wondered if she should even mention the letter to him, but she did not wish for an accidental discovery like last time. Lydia was her sister, however ill guided and selfish she was. Plus, it was no fault of the child's to have been born to such thoughtless parents, and who was she to decree that the child must not be well provided for. Then there was Jane's argument that they deserved a chance to prove themselves.
Most of all, she wished to avoid another fight with Fitzwilliam. She knew anything involving Wickham caused her husband pain, and going behind his back did not appeal to her either. Bingley would never object to sending them money, especially as he was still ignorant of the most intimate particulars, but it did not seem fair to her that they bear the added financial burden. After pacing the hallway for a quarter hour, she finally gathered up her courage and knocked on the door.
"Come in!" Came the curt reply from behind the door.
She entered somewhat warily and was relieved to see he had not received any horrible news. His brow was creased in thought and she knew whatever problem had presented itself was something that he would be able to solve. It was on that rare occasion when something seemed unmanageable that he would become more irritable until he could find the answer. He would usually be pacing and she would generally leave him in peace until he could settle on something that he could agree on.
"What news from town?" She asked politely as she approached his desk.
"Nothing too serious," he replied, still eyeing the paper in his hand. "Mr. Davies wrote about some business investments we have with certain merchants. He thinks it is advisable to switch our patron ship to other companies. He is strongly hinting that I return to London for a spell to work on these accounts."
"When shall you leave?" Elizabeth asked, immediately disheartened.
"Not until he expressly asks for my company. He has a habit of calling me constantly when he can usually sort out the matters himself. He is a very shrewd man, but he does not wish to anger me by dabbling in companies I might not approve of. I shall be here and secure for a few more weeks, at best," he concluded, setting down his paper and bestowing a kiss on his wife's cheek. "What is your opinion?"
"Shall you travel alone, then?" She questioned, trying to pass off the question as casually as she could.
"Only if you do not wish to accompany me. We have not had much chance to be alone, just the two of us," he stated, his eyes lighting up with the idea. "Georgiana and Kitty are no trouble to Jane and Miss Bingley shall be out of everyone's hair by then."
"True, but they will never forgive us for leaving them behind," she added, pulling up a chair next to her husband.
"Kitty will, but Georgiana will be relieved. Besides, they will understand once they are married," he replied with conviction, his manner open and content. "So, what has made you venture into my make-shift study? You usually have some sort of mission in mind."
Elizabeth's face immediately clouded over and she felt her queasiness increase exponentially. "Well... I had received a letter that does not contain happy news and I know you will be very upset once you read it. But I felt I could not keep the knowledge from you and I do not want any suspicion or secrets in our marriage."
Fitzwilliam was a clever man and he easily guessed whose letter could have ignited such reticence in his wife. "Lydia?" He asked through gritted teeth and forced composure.
"Yes," Elizabeth replied in a small voice, hoping to avoid another argument like the one they had had when Lydia had previously written. "She is asking for money again saying they are in debt since they had to pay for a nurse for their son. I find it highly suspicious, and she wrote a nearly identical letter to Jane."
Fitzwilliam sat in silence for a few moments, trying to reign in his thoughts and emotions so he could honor the promise he had given his wife before. "And what do you wish to do?"
"Well..." Elizabeth began, unsure of how to voice her thoughts. "I do not believe their claim is true, but Jane insisted we ought to give them a chance to mend their ways, no matter how unlikely it would be. I personally think it would be unfair for the child to be at a disadvantage simply because his parents are foolish. I should like to offer them some assistance, though not nearly what she is demanding."
"Bingley is certainly much to kind and would settle whatever is left over in order to help them," Fitzwilliam mused.
"That is what I believe and I do not believe it is fair on them, especially now that they have their own child," Elizabeth continued, hoping they could finish out their conversation soon.
"How much is she asking for?" He questioned.
Elizabeth took a deep breath and muttered, "Four hundred pounds"
Fitzwilliam raised his eyebrows in shock and she hastily continued. "I think such a sum is certainly unreasonable, but I can imagine both of them exceeding their income in a shocking manner. Wickham's regiment is moving further north, and they have left a lot of debts."
Fitzwilliam sighed and rubbed his temple. "I shall give them this sum, but after this, I would prefer to remain ignorant of their dealings. Should they desire any reasonable sum, feel free to give it. I shall not question your spending, but anything connected to the name of Wickham shall not be mentioned."
Elizabeth jumped up form the chair and kissed her husband soundly, tears of joy and pride bursting forth. She had been so terrified that he would rage like before, but he had proven that he was master of himself.
"You cannot imagine how indebted I am to you, Fitzwilliam," she replied, her words full of her gratitude. "I was... I was heartily afraid that-"
"What is done is done, Elizabeth. I would rather adopt your outlook on this matter and forget about my folly for the moment," he stated firmly, still embarrassed at his previous treatment of her.
"As you wish," she answered happily, drawing closer to him. "But you cannot honestly understand how happy and proud I am."
He smiled and they quickly, and effectively, put the matter behind them.
"Why do we have to wait here for them? They hate us!" Kitty moaned as they sat in the drawing room parlor.
"Because they are Bingley's relatives and are therefore our relatives too," Elizabeth replied, ignoring Kitty's second remark.
"But Mrs. Hurst does not care two straws for us and Miss Bingley will never come down from her high horse now that her beau is here," Kitty continued stubbornly.
"Does she not have a right to be happy?" Elizabeth countered, hoping to end the argument that had been brewing for days.
"She does, but she does not have to be so cruel all the time. Honestly! Why must Georgiana give up her room for that man that no one really knows? How can Mr. Bingley tolerate it?"
"He is a guest and must be treated as one. Would you like it if a man you liked came to meet our family and he was shunted to the side like an unwanted animal?"
"But he is an unwanted animal," Kitty muttered mutinously.
"Kitty," Elizabeth warned, her voice fast becoming weary. "It takes all kinds of people to make up this world."
"Fine! I understand! But it does not mean I shall like him any better," Kitty cried in one last effort.
"I do not ask that you like him, merely be proper and civil," Elizabeth stated exasperated.
"I will!" Kitty exclaimed, frustrated as well.
Elizabeth closed her eyes and rubbed her head as she felt a headache form. She had become much more prone to headaches of late and she wished to find an excuse to escape the upcoming encounter as much as her sister. Miss Bingley was more than insufferable lately, but Elizabeth hoped the arrival of Mr. Grantley would shift Miss Bingley's attention. Fitzwilliam sat down next to her and offered a comforting arm around her shoulder. She leaned against him and sighed while Georgiana worked across the room to comfort Kitty. She saw Kitty let out a small smile, but the sour expression remained on her face.
"Do you think there is any possibility of escaping early?" Elizabeth asked her husband.
"Well," he replied. "One could try the usual claim to fatigue or sudden illness. You have been a bit ill lately."
Elizabeth sighed. "True. But then again, I do not wish to leave Jane all alone."
"Bingley will watch out for her," Fitzwilliam answered comfortingly. "And if all else fails, there is always her daughter to bail her out such trouble. She is an Elizabeth, after all."
Elizabeth gave him a pert look before resting her head on his shoulder. The door opened and revealed Bingley and Jane, wearing forced smiles that looked more like grimaces.
"They have retired to their rooms, but promise to be down shortly," Bingley informed them, settling heavily on the chaise with his wife.
"How wonderful," Kitty muttered from her corner of the room. Elizabeth sent her a warning glare, which merely made the girl defensive. "What? They have not even come in yet!"
Elizabeth shook her head and decided the argument was not worth starting up again. Jane gave her a pitying look, fully aware of the recent conflicts sprouting around Kitty. She had been in a foul temper after Mary's engagement.
"I will return in a moment," Jane announced as she rose. "I wish to check on Elizabeth."
"But I am right here," Elizabeth replied teasingly.
"Lizzy," Jane began, but Elizabeth held up her hands in defeat.
"I am aware, I was only teasing. Though I do think it would be wise for you to give the child a nickname," Elizabeth responded, moving her gaze over to Charles.
"Only please do not make it 'Lizzy,'" Darcy quickly added, giving his wife a teasing look. "I think one is plenty."
"Well naturally. I am one of a kind," Elizabeth replied with a perfect air of false modesty that set them all laughing. Jane left and left Charles to explain.
"Actually, we have been thinking about that. We both agreed on Beth. What do you think?" Bingley asked eagerly.
"Beth," Elizabeth repeated, testing the name on her tongue. She gave him a large smile. "Beth is perfect."
Charles beamed and they chatted briefly on the subject of names. Kitty pursued her painting and Georgiana worked a blanket for the newly christened Beth. Bingley and Darcy began discussing the latest news on Napoleon, leaving Elizabeth to pick up her latest piece of embroidery.
Jane returned a good quarter hour later and they all received an update on the infant. After picking up her own embroidery, Jane led Elizabeth in a discussion of the dinner party they were to have for Kitty's birthday.
"We ought to have it on her birthday, do you not agree? She dearly loves entertainment and socializing."
"I think it a perfect idea, though Mr. Darcy mentioned that we might have to return to London in about three weeks time," Elizabeth stated, glancing up at Kitty who remained immersed in her painting.
"Oh, so soon?" Jane asked, unable to quell her obvious disappointment.
"We have been here since November, Jane. I daresay we shall have to move on. Mr. Darcy and I are to remove to London for about a fortnight and Kitty and Georgiana will remain with you, if that is agreeable."
"That will be fine. It is better than everyone leaving at once. I believe the Hurst's and Mr. Grantley shall only be staying a fortnight. I know Mr. Grantley has to return to his family's home in Devon. Perhaps we can make Kitty's dinner a bit of a farewell for you and Mr. Darcy."
"I do not think Kitty would be agreeable to that. It is her day; we ought to let her have it. She is not feeling very charitable with me at the moment."
"That is true."
"She does not take kindly to Miss Bingley's constant remarks, nor my telling her she must treat others civilly even if they do not."
"It is a lesson she needs to learn. I have been sorely unhelpful with her. Perhaps she could remain at Netherfield while you, Mr. Darcy, and Miss Darcy return to Pemberley."
"We shall have to ask her opinion. She and Georgiana have become quite the pair and they might not wish to be parted."
At that moment the door opened and the servant announced the arrival of their guests. Mr. and Mrs. Hurst, as ostentatious as ever, entered, their high-flying fashions mystifying the room and causing Kitty to hide her mouth with her hand. After them came Miss Bingley on the arm of her beau, her nose, if quite possible, higher than ever. Mr. Grantley was an older man, reasonably handsome, but his face wore the pinched look of one accustomed to looking down their nose at others. Elizabeth immediately recognized the general snobbery in his features that graced Miss Bingley.
The greetings exchanged were polite and ceremonial. Mr. Hurst settled himself nearest the bottle of wine while his wife haughtily took the place next to her sister. Mr. Grantley sat rigidly on the other side of Miss Bingley and surveyed the room. His eyes narrowed when he alighted on Kitty and narrowed still farther when he swept past Elizabeth and her husband.
"I do hope your trip was pleasant," Elizabeth offered civilly as she tied up the lose threads of her embroidery.
"The weather was tolerable," Mr. Grantley stated shortly, his voice the veneer of perfect, polished society.
An awkward silence remained after his comment. Bingley rallied himself and proceeded with the halting conversation.
"Do you find your rooms to your liking?"
"Yes. The view is pleasant," he continued in the same clipped manner.
"I picked those rooms especially for you," Caroline added, placing her hand on his. Kitty bristled at those words, but swift intervention from Georgiana prevented her from making a scene.
"Thank you, my dear," he answered coolly without much feeling behind the words.
"Have you been to Hertfordshire before, sir?" Jane asked pleasantly.
"Only to pass through when some of the roads are blocked. I did not think that there was more than a handful of members of high society here."
Elizabeth and Kitty were instantly provoked, yet kept their tempers admirably. Miss Bingley wore a look of such smugness that it only heightened their anger. She swept her gaze condescendingly about the room and Elizabeth was visibly struck that Lady Catherine must have looked very similar while she was young. The atmosphere remained tight and full of tension. A collective sigh of relief was uttered when a servant announced that it was time to change for supper.
Mr. Grantley rose sedately and leisurely bowed out of the room with Caroline's arm entwined with his. The Hurst's left after and Kitty let out a scream of frustration.
"How are we to endure that for two weeks? Two weeks, Lizzy! Are you mad?" She burst out, her temper far beyond control.
"I daresay we shall all be occupied with other activities. It is highly unlikely that every waking moment would be spent in their company. After tonight, even when we are in their company, it will not appear rude to be sewing or painting or any such thing," Elizabeth offered placidly, trying to soothe her sister.
Kitty huffed and stormed out of the room, Georgiana close on her heels to try and calm her down before supper began. Darcy securely wrapped his arm around Elizabeth, leading her away from Jane's sympathizing glance and up to her room.
Supper passed in the same stilted manner, though the fashion wore by the newcomers and Miss Bingley were shockingly formal. Kitty blessed Georgiana for suggesting she wear her pretty gown from Christmas. However, the true nature of her apparel would soon be revealed after subsequent meals. Kitty's anger mounted swiftly. How could she hope to win a man with such a limited amount of gowns to wear? The thought of a distant letter floated into her mind and calmed her. True, she had written to him weeks ago and had not yet received a reply, but she was convinced he was merely otherwise occupied with numerous engagements. Or perhaps the post went astray, as it was often wont to. The post was most unreliable.
Thankfully, the men retired to the study after supper and let the ladies split off in the drawing room. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst eagerly huddled together on one couch and thoroughly ignored the rest of the room. Jane was very hurt, but she masked it well and was able to chat almost cheerfully to her sisters.
Soon after the men arrived, the girls were persuaded to sing for them. Miss Bingley naturally performed first and graced them all with a perfect, though unfeeling, concerto. Gliding past Miss Darcy to accept her civil praises, she loudly insisted that Miss Darcy oblige them with a song. Georgiana blanched, but took a couple of calming breaths to try and soothe her nerves. Her pleading look to Elizabeth was not unheeded, and the pair settled themselves at the piano; one to play, the other to turn pages.
The evening passed quicker than the afternoon had. Mr. Grantley, after the ladies had dismissed themselves, expressed his desire to meet privately with Bingley the following day. Bingley looked momentarily taken aback before resuming his usual buoyant looks and heartily agreeing.
Kitty greeted her special dinner party with exuberant enthusiasm. The thought that everyone was there for her helped her play the part of a very gracious host and keep her mindful of her manners. Elizabeth was pleased with this unexpected outcome and renewed hope of making Kitty a truly respectable young lady.
However, this opinion was not shared by Mrs. Bennet. Having married off the rest of her daughters, she could only look at Kitty as an object of failure, especially having Lydia married so young. She loudly lamented Kitty's defaults to her sister in tones that left everyone in the vicinity feeling decidedly awkward. Convinced as she was that Kitty held no talents, was not as pretty as her other sisters, and currently had no marriage prospects caused her excitable nerves no inconsiderate amount of alarm. Kitty left the room twice to try and stem the tears forming behind her eyes. She valiantly thought of the lovely letter Mr. Stafford had sent her nearly a month ago and it raised her spirits enough to help ignore her mother.
This new resolve would still not allow her to partake of Mary's felicity. She managed polite congratulations, but otherwise ignored her sister and beau. For the duration of the party she remained firmly at Miss Maria Lucas' side and told her in whispered words of glee the truth of Miss Bingley's engagement.
"Only think, Maria. I had it from Jane herself!" Kitty explained to her friend over their third glass of punch. "That man cares little for her, but desired a hostess! A hostess! Can you believe it? I cannot, and she has gone and accepted him!"
Maria Lucas' face was the perfection of horror. "But... she does not love him. That is horrible. How could they let her make such a match?"
"She is truly horrible woman and they shall be quite happy together," Kitty spat shortly, her vehemence in full force whenever confronted by engaged couples. "Her desire is his money and he is frightfully rich."
This last was murmured wistfully. Maria gave her friend a sympathetic look and silence fell, soon punctured by Mrs. Bennet's carrying voice.
"I declare she will end an old maid! She has been off with Lizzy for months now and not even a hint of an engagement! I thought she would meet some rich men, but it seems my schemes are for naught. I tried to convince Lizzy to have her stay at Longbourn. Lord knows I need help with my poor nerves. But what do you think? She flatly refused, said it was up to Kitty. And Kitty! She up and declared she would stay with her sister, nothing I said could move her. Oh dear, I know not, sister, what shall become of me. I shall die alone and forgotten with my poor nerves."
Their Aunt Phillips replied in softer tones that could not reach them, but the damage was done. Kitty was an unbecoming shade of red and her friend could do not more than look on with deepest sympathy. Seizing her courage, Maria ventured to distract her friend from her mother's words.
"When shall you be leaving us? I know your sister and Mr. Darcy are to leave by the end of the week."
"I shall leave in a fortnight. They desired some time to themselves and Georgiana and I are quite comfortable here. Then we shall join them in London and leave for Pemberley directly, depending on the weather. I do wish we could stay a fortnight in London too, but they are all impatient to be at Pemberley. It would not be so dull if they would entertain," Kitty lamented, thankful and eager to cease thought of Mrs. Bennet.
"But was there not a new parson at Pemberley?" Maria asked, reflecting on how often she had visited Rosings while last in Kent.
"True, but he hardly counts as entertainment," Kitty replied dismissively.
Across the room, Elizabeth found herself briefly separated from her husband. He had joined a conversation of little interest to her and she decided to elicit the attention of her impending brother. Greeting him gently, she began a conversation, realizing as she did so that there was relatively little she knew about him.
"I hope you have found Meryton much to your liking. You hailed from Essex, I understand."
"Yes. I am the fourth son and we are not very high in society," he answered matter-of-factly.
"I see. Will you remain in Meryton?" Elizabeth questioned with honest curiosity.
"Yes. Your uncle's business remains here and I hope to one day rise up and be of great service," he declared passionately, the most emotion Elizabeth had seen in this reserved man.
"I am sure Mary encourages this ambition," she continued, taking a sip of her punch.
"Very much so, as does her uncle. He would like the business to remain with the family," he replied honestly.
"You seem to have a very deep affection for my sister. She had yet to find her match in reading and philosophy," she stated shrewdly, gazing hard at the man next to her.
Being an intelligent man, he caught her assumption readily. "I may not have a very deep affection for your sister, but I prefer her companionship much more than frippery girls with naught in their heads but ribbons."
Elizabeth looked affronted and he hastily continued.
"Please do not be angry at me, Mrs. Darcy. It is not in my nature to love most passionately. I cannot love your sister as such, but she is a very welcome companion. She is of a similar nature. Not all of us can be blessed with your good fortune. Hopefully, in time, we can have that level of devotion," he stated earnestly.
Elizabeth smiled. "I cannot say anything to such honesty. You are very brave, brother, and I hope you both do find that felicity. I do not wish to see any of my sisters unhappy."
Mr. Stadbury smiled. "A very noble desire, sister. I shall keep your sister happy, I assure you."
Elizabeth offered him a comforting smile before they quickly parted. As she moved away, she was pleased that she had controlled her temper. It seemed to be much shorter these days. Gazing about the room, she found her husband and informed him that she was retiring early. He looked concerned, but she claimed her head ached. She assured him a long rest would cure her wonderfully. He escorted her up to their chambers before seizing her in a lasting embrace.
"Now I can face the rest of the night," he murmured as they parted. "Sleep well."
Elizabeth mumbled the same after him before seeking the relief of her bed.
On the third night of their being in London, Fitzwilliam watched his wife struggle to retain her composure as they tried to listen to the stern butler. Her eyes were bright with mischief and the smirk on her face; coupled with the brow she slowly raised at him, served to inform him that she knew exactly what she was doing. He was having a most difficult time trying to keep his face attentive and not offend the man before him. Just as they had entered through the door, she had grasped his hand and held it securely behind her back. She stood so close to him, her hem brushing his boots, that the butler was none the wiser. Now, after a night of playful banter between them, she was enacting revenge. She knew full well that those caresses, snaking inside the sleeve of his coat, undid him. The torture she was putting him through now was incalculable.
"Thank you," Darcy replied to his butler's question, hoping the man did not realize his master had not comprehended a word. As soon as the man's back was turned, Elizabeth used her free hand to stifle the laughter threatening to split the grin on her face.
"You," Fitzwilliam accused, spinning his wife and capturing her eyes. His burned with a myriad of emotions before he quickly led her down the first hallway, her hand now captured in his.
"Fitzwilliam!" She called as the antique paintings rushed past her. "Where are we going?"
"The study," he ground out.
With a sudden stop, he fiddled with the catch on the door and quickly ushered his wife through the doorway. The door shut swiftly and he whisked Elizabeth into a passionate kiss.
"What a marvelous show! I think all this waiting around was properly rewarded," a sickeningly amused voice greeted from the fireplace.
Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam jumped apart instantly, both blushing a deep scarlet, trying to straighten themselves out.
"Oh come! You needn't stop for me," Colonel Fitzwilliam teased further, his laughing eyes watching them expectantly.
"Richard, what are you doing here?" Darcy asked, his voice, when he finally found it, a deep threatening growl.
"Waiting to see you, my dear cousin. It has been ages and I have not had the opportunity to greet your new wife properly. How do you do, my dear Mrs. Darcy?" He asked politely, trying to return the situation to one less awkward for all involved.
"Very well, thank you Colonel," she answered neutrally, dipping into a curtsey to avoid looking at his face.
"As I see," he replied blandly, his eyes sparkling in acute mischief. "Perhaps I should call at a better time?"
"There is no need, Colonel," Elizabeth replied smoothly, unwilling to let him retain the upper hand. "For then we should have to meet you again."
The Colonel clutched his heart theatrically and fell on the couch. "Touché, madam," he answered in a long-suffering voice while his cousin laughed.
The couple took the chairs opposite him and a maid arrived with a tray laden with sweet cakes and tea. She politely dismissed herself before they began in earnest.
"So, Richard," Fitzwilliam began as he made his way over to the liquor cabinet. "What is the true reason for this visit? Have you run through your allowance already?"
"No," Richard replied quickly, fidgeting like a child. "I merely wished to call on the relations who so sorely neglected me."
Elizabeth raised an eyebrow and blew on her tea. "If I recall correctly, you were assigned to review some troops over in Wales. We have not heard hide nor tail of you since."
"That is because you could not bear to write to me, knowing full well I should be out of supply of dignified company," he continued petulantly, gratefully accepting the proffered brandy.
"You consider yourself dignified?" Fitzwilliam asked smiling.
"Compared to the regulars, yes, I do," he answered with a haughty sniff. "I see what marriage has brought you, cousin. Two against one! 'Tis no fair at all."
"You bring it upon yourself," Fitzwilliam replied.
"How so? A cheerful, sociable chap such as myself? I daresay I fair better than the bitter, taciturn Darcy, am I right, Mrs. Darcy?" He asked, hoping she would support him. The hint of anger flashing in his temperamental cousin was another boon to his stay.
Elizabeth laughed. "In some respects. You delight on acquaintance, but grate later on."
He knew she was teasing him and had pacified her husband, but he was not done with his fun yet.
"Mrs. Darcy, you shall tear all my pride into ribbons. As if lower lads trying to overturn my command were not terror enough, I shall be attacked on all sides! Why did I come back to visit, why?" He asked dramatically.
"Because you are not content until someone pities you," Darcy answered good-naturedly.
Elizabeth laughed, but the Colonel remained grave. "But do I not have a reason? The Earl of Matlock would flay me alive and Mother simply dotes on Edward, my brother, with not a care for my well-being. Thus, I am left to drift alone in this heartless world, to make a fortune or perish at the hands of the enemy!"
Elizabeth's laughter rang about the room and Richard was much put out that his grand scheme was not believed.
"What lies have you been feeding her, Darcy?" He asked sourly as he downed his brandy.
"None. She met your parents at our wedding," Darcy replied happily, enjoying the transformation on his cousin's face.
"Dash it all! And here I was hoping to have at least someone in this family understand what pain I go through."
"Colonel, your father is such an even-minded man that no one would be persuaded he could raise a hand against anyone," Elizabeth responded sincerely.
"It is the quiet ones," he countered. "You should always be wary of the quiet ones."
"That was a very impressive performance, Richard," Darcy interjected. "But I am afraid my wife is too clever to fall for your tricks."
Richard muttered and helped himself to more brandy. "I nearly had Edward's fiancée over on my side, but he finally became conscious that there was more in the room than just her face. I am happy for him. He found a quiet, modest girl who seems fairly sensible. Her name is Miss Maybel Cordery. They met during the last Season and continued their acquaintance throughout the summer."
"I am very happy for him," Darcy replied heartily. "When did they announce the engagement?"
"Only a few weeks ago. I am sure Mother sent you a nice long letter about it."
"And what of you, Colonel. No engagements for you?" Elizabeth asked teasingly.
"I have been in a camp in Wales, madam," he answered, half-jesting. "It shall take another month for the stench and mannerisms to wear off before I could even hope of joining any of the marriageable ladies."
Elizabeth laughed and hid a yawn. After enjoying a few more minutes of banter, she excused herself for the evening. Darcy looked up in concern as Elizabeth usually enjoyed staying up with guests.
"Are you well?" He asked, standing and escorting her to the door.
"I am fine, just a bit tired. I am unused to town," she replied with a smile. "Besides, I am sure you would enjoy some time with your cousin."
"Are you sure?" He questioned, his concern not abated.
"Perfectly," she answered, willing herself not to get angry at his obvious worry. She knew he only looked out for her, as much as she disliked being questioned. "You will not keep my husband up all night, will you Colonel?"
Richard laughed. "I do not believe I could even if I tried," he called, his eyes alluding to earlier that evening.
Darcy blushed and Elizabeth felt herself color as well. "Very well. Will you join us for supper tomorrow?"
His face clouded. "I am engaged tomorrow with some of the higher officers, but I am free the day after."
She smiled. "We shall expect you then. Good night."
They both bade her good night and Darcy promised to retire within the next half hour. Once the door shut, he returned to his cousin.
"She is a treasure, Darcy," Richard stated. "Her wit is more than I remember."
Darcy smiled. "I am indeed fortunate. Georgiana and the household no less so."
Richard nodded. "I only hope I receive the same felicity."
"You will, Richard, in time. You are young and amiable yet. Consider I had not that quality."
"True, and it is a very needed quality. Not all the Miss Elizabeth's in the world end up to be so understanding," he replied, but continued after a pause. "Will you be journeying to Kent for Easter?"
"We have not been invited, though Georgiana stayed for a month in autumn."
"Poor girl. How did she fare?"
"Well enough, though Lord Rocheford was there while she was," he answered, his face turning into a glower.
"Good God. He did not..." Fitzwilliam cried out in alarm, his eyes widening as he set down his drink.
"No! No, thank Heavens no, but we believe there was some sort of understanding, at least on her part. Apparently he is to be engaged to our cousin Anne."
"Anne?" Richard asked in surprise, clanking his glass on the table. "I am happy for her, do not doubt that, but what man would marry her?"
"From what Lady Catherine informed Georgiana, his fortune is only guaranteed by this marriage. No doubt it was grandly orchestrated by our beloved aunt."
"Dear Lord. Easter will be positively miserable," the Colonel moaned into his hands.
"Cheer up. Maybe you can be sent back to Wales," Darcy replied, raising his glass to hide his smirk.
His cousin shot him a murderous glare.
Elizabeth wandered through the hallways of their London home. She still had a few hours before the Colonel was to arrive for dinner and could not find any occupation to amuse her. Her hands were still sore from practicing and she had just finished her book. The library at this house was not as full and no book had caught her interest anyway. Her husband stoutly refused to let her go on walks about town by herself and was currently trapped in business. Some important news from his latest ship had arrived shortly after luncheon and he begged forgiveness for not returning until supper.
Elizabeth sighed. She felt utterly useless. Her Aunt Gardiner had been called on that morning and there was no other diversion left that would not aggravate her hands. Therefore, she resorted to wandering. She thought back to the play they had visited the night before and smiled. It had been delightful. If only the days in town could be as interesting as the nights.
She had reached the back end of the house and a delicious aroma accosted her. Her stomach gave a sudden quease, before kindly relenting. The incoming nausea she was beginning to fear eased and let her enjoy the delectable smells. It had a habit of turning traitorously in the middle of meals. Pushing open the door, she was startled as she beheld the bustling kitchen.
Mrs. Abery, the head cook who reigned in the London house, was a woman to be reckoned with. She ruled the kitchen with a stiff hand and had the muscle to follow through with any punishment. Although moderately understanding and earnestly loving to offer her advice to anyone with his or her problems, she tolerated no nonsense in her kitchen. At the moment Elizabeth looked in, the lady in question was scolding a lad for knocking over several large pans in his effort to remove the garbage. One never wished to cross this lady, especially on a day when guests were coming.
"How often must I tell you to watch where yer going? This isn't some fancy tavern that you can enter at yer pleasure! See to it you right yer carelessness or ye'll be finding a new job!" The on-edge cook bellowed to a scrawny youth.
Nodding meekly, the lad quickly picked up the dropped articles and fled, thankfully not upsetting anything on his way out. Elizabeth watched, slightly bemused, as the cook huffily turned back to the chicken that needed more seasoning. As she turned, she caught sight of the mistress standing uncertainly in the doorway. Mrs. Abery hurriedly wiped her hands on her over-size apron and tucked back some strands of hair that had escaped during her labor.
"What can I do for you, Ma'am?" She asked politely, ducking into a low curtsey as she approached her.
"Oh, I was just wandering and I had not been back here before. It smelled so wonderful," Elizabeth added as a sort of explanation.
The cook beamed with pleasure. "Just for your dinner tonight, Ma'am. I am glad you approve. I was beginning to be afraid you found something amiss with my cooking," Mrs. Abery replied, unsuccessfully hiding her true concern.
"Oh, no! I hope I have not given you that impression. Your cooking has always been delicious," Elizabeth answered earnestly, trying to assure the lady.
"Then I am glad. I had just wondered as the trays have been sent back untouched," Mrs. Abery continued, letting the sentence dangle.
"I am very sorry; I have not been well. I did not mean to give offense. I have had difficulty eating in the mornings," Elizabeth replied sheepishly.
"Oh! I see," Mrs. Abery stated speculatively, eyeing her mistress up and down. "Very well, then. So long as you enjoy your meals. Mr. Abery assured me it was not so, but I was not sure."
Elizabeth smiled weakly, knowing that her traitorous stomach was now beginning to quench itself unmercifully.
"I shall look forward to supper and leave you to your work, then," came her tight-lipped reply.
"As you wish," Mrs. Abery answered with a curtsey. She returned to her station as soon as her mistress left and decided the chicken needed no more seasoning after all.
Well, there you are!
I do not have much to say. Shocking, isn't it? I'm halfway through the next chapter, so hopefully (crosses fingers) the wait won't be too long. I am glad so many people are enjoying this story and I truly appreciate all the reviews. Thanks for all your support!
Kudos to Mlle. Skywalker, for another excellent job betaing. You guys don't know how much you owe her. :)
One last bit, and then I promise I'm done. I have left of the "Previously" section in this chapter. Let me know if you like me to add it as a permanent thing, or not.
Thank you all, and review! (What? We all shamelessly plug for them:) )