As I said at the reposting of chapter 17, I am reuploading these chapters because I changed them enough that if you don't read the new versions all preceding chapters will not make sense. I'm sorry for the inconvenience. also I am still looking for a beta reader, if interested please pm me!
Chapter 18
The next three days passed quickly with little of significance but that of the everyday kind. Elizabeth had never again brought up their argument or the subject of it for which he was grateful, and he now considered it quite in the past.
His mornings were spent calling on Elizabeth and accompanying her back to Netherfield with Miss Mary for their piano lessons with Signore Russo and Georgiana. He was sent away for these lessons but usually got a few minutes with her afterwards before she returned to Longbourn for tea. The afternoons he spent with the Bingleys, responding to his letters and helping with estate matters. One afternoon they spent with the neighborhood gentlemen fox hunting.
The previous evening it had rained heavily but Friday morning broke bright and clear. Fitzwilliam knew that if he went out riding it would be wet and muddy but could not resist the opportunity for some exercise after having been cooped up for nearly three whole days.
Ignoring the somewhat worried glances of the groomsmen, Darcy had Maximus saddled quickly and was soon riding away from Netherfield. He had no particular destination in mind but found himself heading toward Longbourn. He knew he could not visit that estate as it was only just after dawn and he would not be fit for polite company after riding in the mud, but he found he just wanted to be near where Elizabeth was. He had surprised himself with how much he had missed her. It seemed that each time they were apart it became harder for him to accept the separation. He had often thought over the last few days how grateful he was that the courtship had been going well for he no longer knew how to be separate from her. It seemed that everything had some connection with her now in his mind.
It will not be long now until I can propose! He thought, perhaps we can than be in Pemberley in time for the Harvest.
He rode for a while more just enjoying the fresh spring day and exercise. He was skirting along the fence bordering the two estates, when he spotted a figure leaning against the gate. He knew immediately that it was Elizabeth and felt a thrill of excitement. She seemed to notice him at the same time and raised her hand in greeting. Quickly he approached and sliding from Maximus made his bow.
"Miss Elizabeth, I am very pleased to see you. What a wonderful coincidence!"
She dipped her curtsy quickly then looked up with a mischievous grin. "Then I am to believe this meeting a random happenstance? You, riding along my family's property at a time when you know I like to walk?"
"While the possibility of seeing you had occurred to me, I had thought it a wishful fantasy." Darcy rebutted honestly. "Besides, if there was some calculation done there must be some fault on both sides, were you not leaning against the Netherfield fence staring out towards where you thought I might be?"
Elizabeth's already pink cheeks darkened even more, and she tossed her head. "Certainly not! There was a… bird I was watching that happened to fly over the fence." This was said with a teasing smile that made it obvious the she had no expectation of being believed.
Darcy decided to be gallant instead of pushing her more and nodded seriously. "There are some lovely birds in these woods."
Their smiled at each other for a moment and Darcy could not help the rush of feelings that the sight of her lovely face brought him. He felt his smile disappear along with his light mood and knew that he was looking at her too intensely but couldn't look away. As the atmosphere shifted, her smile faded away as well. He didn't mind, her serious dark eyes were so beautiful they seemed to pierce his heart. Slowly he let himself truly look at her as polite company rarely allowed. She seemed so slight and small when he stood this close, her dark curly head not even reaching his shoulder. Unhurriedly he let his gaze travel down her body, not so slow as to be lecherous but measured and appreciative. When he looked back up he realized that instead of looking embarrassed, Elizabeth was doing the same to him. His gaze fell to her lips and he wondered if he could steal another kiss. Their eyes caught again, and he found that she was so lovely he could not stop himself from stepping closer to steal a kiss.
Unfortunately, his movement seemed break the tiny spell they'd woven together and with a small start, she stepped away from the fence and gave a slight laugh, "My family must be waiting at the breakfast table, wondering where I've gotten too! I shouldn't make them worry. Forgive me, but I must take your leave." Then with a bobbed curtsy she all but ran back into the Longbourn forest.
Elizabeth was hurrying back to Longbourn when she realized that she was quite out of breath. She hadn't been running, but her chest heaved all the same. Deciding not to examine the reasons for that (or the glorious image that still danced before her eyes of a beautiful man, haloed by morning sun, smiling down on her) Elizabeth slowed to a walk. She was happy that she had been able to see him. The mood had suddenly gotten intense being unsure how to handle it she had quickly left but she smiled to remember the meeting.
Their argument Monday came to her mind again and her smile faded. While she had not brought up the subject again it had bothered her much the last few days. Not the argument itself, no, that concerned her little. For couples, indeed all relationships will quarrel at times and tempers cannot be perfect. Even in this case, though emotions had flared hotly and at one time he had grabbed her hand a little tightly, Elizabeth thought it had not been so bad. He had neither shouted or threatened, she had not lost her temper and they had made up quite nicely. No, in reference to their relationship the disagreement troubled her little.
What did, however worry her, was the content of the quarrel. On her way to Netherfield that day she had been confused and almost doubting Mr. Wickham's story. It had seemed so wrong in relation to what she then knew of Mr. Darcy and Georgiana. But now, now she realized that while she liked the Darcys and knew them to be generally good she had no real reason for distrusting the specific information that Lt. Wickham had given her. Indeed, everything that had happened that afternoon had only seemed to enforce it. At the mention of Lt. Wickham, Miss Darcy had started and then looked distinctly guilty. And then Mr. Darcy, for all his 'righteous' anger and jealousy, had not answered her questions. He had given no defense nor even seemed to think he ought. He seemed to think that she should take accept his judgment without question or information.
On the other side, Lt. Wickham had freely, openly given her every detail and explained all perspectives. In the Darcys she had only seen anger and guilt; in Wickham only sad acceptance. It tore at her that she was beginning to have feelings for the man who had ruined another man's future in such a way. Yet that was true as well, she was falling for Mr. Darcy and knowing that he had done something so very wrong in the past did not much change her emotions.
She could only hope that she could somehow help Mr. Wickham someday. And perhaps be a voice of reason and kindness in any future issues. Though how she would do that if he refused to confide in her, she didn't know. Maybe there was hope there though, for he had confided in her before and maybe if it wasn't in connection to a man that he was jealous of, he would continue to do so.
Elizabeth soon arrived back at Longbourn and went in to breakfast. Her morning repast was filled with the usual chatter and insignificant family drama. Elizabeth remained lost in her own thoughts for the most part but when a plan was discussed to make calls early and be back in time for the presumed visit from the suitors, Elizabeth proclaimed her intention to accompany them for the calls. She had remembered her determination from before to not let Mr. Darcy's presence in her life overwhelm every other aspect of it. Making the neighborhood calls were just the thing to reestablish other thoughts and concerns in her mind.
And so, breakfast and preparation completed, four Bennet women left Longbourn with much bustle and vigor. Lydia and Mary had remained behind, the former was 'under the weather' with her monthlies and the latter used the excuse of caring for her youngest sister as an excuse to get out of one of her most hated activities. Lydia had bemoaned loudly being left behind but her mother had insisted that she rest. Elizabeth was pleased to notice that without Lydia's boisterousness to boost her own, Mrs. Bennet was slightly more restrained than was often the case. Kitty also seemed to be benefiting from the situation as it meant that she didn't have to compete for attention quite as hard. And thus, it was an elegant and happy party that was visited their neighbors.
Their first visit was with Mrs. Chapman, a delightful elderly lady who had been very active member of the community until age had degenerated her health and energy. Her daughter (now Mrs. Lewis) had been Mrs. Bennet's very good friend until marriage had necessitated her moving to a different county. Now Mrs. Bennet always included the elderly Mrs. Chapman in her social visits to catch up on the news of her friend and because of the very eager ear that she found in that company for any town 'news'. Elizabeth's presence on the call was of much interest to Mrs. Chapman, as she had been gone so long and then returned so dramatically with a beau. Elizabeth was so interesting in fact, that she continued to steer the conversation back to questions for Elizabeth, much to Mrs. Bennet's frustrations. Elizabeth was glad of it though. Despite the health restrictions that had kept the woman out of most town events she was still a strong influence in the town, and she was fond of Elizabeth. So, with some carefully worded stories and strategically timed blushes, Elizabeth thought she had defended the courtship of her and Mr. Darcy quite well. Though perhaps the visit had somewhat invalidated her reasons for wanting to make it, namely, thinking of things other than Mr. Darcy!
As they left Mrs. Bennet gave an Elizabeth an annoyed side-eye and then sighed. "Well, this is probably a good thing. Though I wish she would have let me tell her all about the courtship as I would have provided ever so many more details! But still, it is good to get it from 'the horse's mouth' if you will! I think you gave a good impression and I'm glad of it. Ever since you've returned, I've been singing Mr. Darcy's praises, but I don't know… some people-" Then she broke off and awkwardly gave Elizabeth a pat on her shoulder. "Don't you worry though, it's a very good match, and they are all just green with envy!"
Elizabeth winced to imagine the extreme and vocal change in how her mother spoke of Mr. Darcy. Yet mostly she was glad to know that at the very least her mother was aware of the difficulty she and Mr. Darcy faced in the community and was trying to help. She smiled back and took her mother's arm.
Their next call was with the Moore family. The Moores were nice people, if a bit quiet for Bennet taste. Visits with them often resulted in conversational gaps and awkward silences. Especially for the last few years since Evelyn had gotten married and was thus usually absent. Evelyn Pearce nee Moore had been one of Elizabeth's closest friends when they were teens, for they were of the same age and had much in common. But then at age eighteen Evelyn had married and while they still got along well, they started to have less and less in common. Another aspect of the decrease in intimacy was the unspoken discouragement society had for the closeness of married and unmarried ladies. Over these last three years Elizabeth had found she had more and more in common with Charlotte and other 'old maids' a fact that she had noticed and had contributed her former belief that she would never marry. It was with unexpected joy and excitement that Elizabeth realized she might be able to rebuild the intimacy from before now that she was, while not married, at least in a relationship.
So, it was with renewed excitement that she asked after her friend and found that Evelyn coincidently would be visiting the day after next and staying with her family for a few days in celebration of her father's birthday. This was the only topic of interest to Elizabeth on that visit, though she remained polite. Mrs. Moore was of quiet disposition, and rarely shared much of her own thoughts and regrettably, at least in terms of engaging conversation, Evelyn had been her only daughter. She had had two sons, one much older and already married and the last born, Stephen. Stephen Moore had just turned sixteen and worshiped the ground Kitty walked on. Unfortunately for the poor lad, he had never had the courage to actually talk to Kitty nor was he handsome enough to turn her head. So, it was with some of her father's humor that Elizabeth found amusement in watching her mother make forced, obligatory attempts at conversation and poor Stephen stare mutely at Kitty. It was a testament to Kitty's total devotion to handsome officers that a boy her age staring at her from three feet away went entirely unnoticed. This visit was rather short but thankfully painless as Jane was her usual, charming and considerate self and had kept the conversation pleasant.
Hoping to get back in plenty of time for their expected male callers, the Bennet women decided to visit only one other home. Mrs. Phillips, could not, of course be overlooked. Mrs. Phillips and the Bennet Matriarch were inseparable, the sisters were lifelong friends with a bond that marriage, children and time had only strengthened. While Elizabeth hoped for a similar future for her and Jane the relationship between her mother and her aunt often frustrated her. While Elizabeth felt that the relationship she had with Jane brought out the best aspects of both their characters, her mother and aunt seemed to bring out the most embarrassing aspects each other. Still, what could she do? Dutifully she accompanied her mother and sisters into her aunt's home.
The Phillip home was often a hub of social activity and as this was common calling hour, the morning room did not disappoint with several of the town's ladies already sipping tea and chatting around the room. Elizabeth was immediately hailed by several ladies including her aunt to tell everyone about her beau and how it had come to be. Though they had doubtless already heard countless retellings from Mrs. Bennet, Elizabeth was glad of the opportunity to put it in her own words.
However, she had only given the most basic of answers before new guests arrived. Five of the militia officers squeezed into the room, their number including Mr. Denny and Lt. Wickham. The sitting room was quite large for an attorney's home, but it was still crowded with over a dozen people in it. A couple of women left reluctantly, and everyone resettled themselves, thus for a few moments Elizabeth was happily forgotten by the conversation at large. She had been speaking quietly to Ms. Fairweather, a long-time acquaintance, when suddenly her aunt's voice rose above the general murmur to call. "Elizabeth, you haven't finished telling us! How did it all happen! How did you finally win over Mr. 'Unimpressed' Darcy?"
There were titters all around the room and Elizabeth had to fight not to blush. She knew her aunt really didn't mean her any harm and the comment was meant to disparage Mr. Darcy's manners but the reality was that it sounded like an innuendo of impropriety. She did her best to chuckle causally and answered, "Nothing could simpler aunt. While I was Kent, we were often in company with his aunt and my cousin, the social circle I was introduced to was small and we were forced into a closer acquaintance then before. As we conversed, we found that we had more in common than we had originally thought!"
This explanation was maybe a slight stretch of the truth, as their time in Kent had been tense and indeed often combative, but it was closer to the truth than what they were imagining and the presence of his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourg, and her cousin, a clergyman, lent a certainty of moral propriety to the entire affair.
"More in common? What could you have in common with that man?" Her aunt asked to the interest of the rest of the room.
"Why, a love of reading of course!" Elizabeth laughed and allowed a bit of affectionate tone to enter her voice as she related the story of how they had spoken of many books and he had even helped defend her position in conversation a time or two. The mood in the room did soften a bit but still one commented, not unkindly, "Still, a love of reading is not enough to base a marriage on."
"That's true, of course, but it was a tipping point for us. Our dispositions are very different, that's undeniable. But in actuality they are not in conflict with each other but rather complimentary. Also, we share many views and values in common."
"When's the wedding date again?" called one of the officers in a teasing tone and room laughed again.
For the first time Elizabeth's response stuttered. She had mentally prepared herself to be questioned, rudely and publicly, about the beginning and present state of their relationship and had decided a calm and loyal response was best. But now found herself stuck, she had not actually made the decision to marry him, he hadn't even proposed, so she could not publicly admit to considering it. But also, any amount of uncertainty now could look like a withdrawal of her previous comments. Hindering her response further were all the eyes staring at her. Elizabeth was not shy but still being stared at by a room of people ready to think ill of you is a test for any will. "I- We have not-"
"Come now, it could not be before the Bingley wedding at any rate! We will get the details from her then. How are the preparations going, Miss Bennet?" called Lt. Wickham in a jovial manner.
The conversation, and attention, turned to the blushing bride-to-be and Elizabeth released a sigh of relief. She smiled thankfully at Lt. Wickham and he gave a half nod, half bow of gallant comradery. The next twenty minutes passed quickly, with only a few more awkward questions directed at Elizabeth. When the polite calling time was up Elizabeth quietly tried to suggest they leave. Mrs. Bennet tried to resist at first, then, remembering their expected guests called her farewells to everyone, stating loudly that she had to attend to her 'sons-in-law'. There were a few teasing remarks made about them rushing back to 'their' men, but Elizabeth and Jane exited mostly unscathed.
Scarcely a moment had passed after the Bennet women had quit the Phillips home, when Lt. Wickham and Officer Shaw caught up with them. Gallantly they offered to walk the women home. Mr. Darcy had asked her to avoid him, but Elizabeth could hardly cut off her friendship. It would be rude, cause even more gossip about her and be a betrayal of the friendship that she had with him. Besides, with linked with Jane's and in company with three others, she and Lt. Wickham could not seem as if they were walking 'together'. What followed was very pleasant twenty minutes or so as they ambled up the country road. Jane had never gotten close to Lt. Wickham and so with her in the conversation he kept it light and free of any personal discussions. At Elizabeth's urging the men turned back when the Longbourn road began and all wished each other well with happy, friendly manners.
Elizabeth found it difficult to restrain herself from hurrying her pace. She was eager to get home and hopefully see Mr. Darcy. Her morning's activities had not helped much in getting her mind off him and she found she missed him despite seeing him only a few hours before.
Mr. Darcy arrived late to the Bennet household despite his eagerness to see Elizabeth. His early morning moment with her had fueled his desire to see her rather than satisfied it. Indeed, it had taken all his will not to give chase to her when, blushing and smiling, she had raced off into the forest. The only thing that had kept him from leaping the fence and catching her up was the fear of what he might do in such an unguarded moment.
Thus, he had returned to Netherfield with every intention of hurrying through breakfast and rushing back to Longbourn as quickly as custom would allow calls. However, every other person involved seemed to be resolved on moving at a snail's pace. Everyone moved at a crawl, seeming to be still asleep. Even Bingley, for all his usual energy was not what one would call a 'morning person'. Despite his frustration, Darcy had maintained his calm demeanor as it would not do to rush his hosts for no other reason than his irrational desire to chase after Elizabeth.
At long, long last breakfast had been completed and Charles had been ready to leave when they had received a visitor themselves. Sir William Lucas and his son Fredrick Lucas were returning Bingley's call that he had made to them the week previously. Normally Darcy would have excused himself on 'estate matters' for nothing Sir Lucas had ever said had interested him in the slightest. However, Elizabeth's comments on how the local society was viewing him and thus them, still rang in his thoughts.
It was in consideration for her and her reputation alone that kept him in his seat for the full half hour that the call had lasted. For the most part it was as insipid and fawning as he had expected from the pair. Sir Lucas was so very, very sorry that it had taken so long to return the call, claiming the weather to be the cause of his rudeness. Apologizing once for the weather (of all things), would have been overly fastidious but that it was the main topic of conversation for over five minutes taxed Darcy's already thin patience for the discussion. Mr. Lucas wondered when they could form a shooting party together and asked after the state of game in Netherfield. While he had not gone shooting since his return to Netherfield, Darcy was able to make a comment or two on the subject as he had been out riding often.
Darcy's purpose in remaining for the call was finally fulfilled when Sir Lucas, seeming to gather some courage asked jovially. "I hear it is not only to Mr. Bingley that I owe congratulations, Mr. Darcy! Though perhaps not the same ones as I gave to him as you are only courting as of yet! Still, it is a fine thing, for she is a very great beauty! And such a delightful girl! I always thought the two of you looked very fine together, though there seemed to be a time that you did not think as such...?"
Darcy had nodded and tried to don a pleasant expression, "It has come to my attention that I did, unintentionally, give that impression. In truth I did admire her, but having had, at that time, not decided to pursue that attraction I did not wish to cause unfounded expectations."
"Then you had liked her all along, had you?"
"Yes, indeed. Who could not?" He had answered bravely.
"Truly?" Mr. Lucas had laughed, "If that's how you look at and talk to someone you admire, I'd hate to see how it is with someone you dislike."
Darcy had not known know what to say. Thankfully Bingley had jumped in and had helped him, casually and pleasantly move the conversation on from there. When the call had finally ended and their guests had left. Darcy had not had to push his friend to hurry, they had almost raced each other to the stables. Laughing at each other and themselves they had made their way to Longbourn.
Sadly, all their hopes and excitement were to be disappointed. When they arrived, they were told all but two of the Bennet girls had gone to make calls. Sadly, it was not the two that had they had suddenly imagined it was. Rather, Miss Lydia and Miss Mary, both of whom were not taking calls in any case. Upon receiving this information, they asked after Mr. Bennet in the hopes of waiting with him. Their hopes were satisfied, and they were led into Mr. Bennet's study where the man was obviously not overly glad to see them but offered them a beverage nonetheless.
After making the required pleasantries Mr. Bennet returned his book that he had been holding since they had entered. Bingley tried a couple of times to reengage him in conversation, but Mr. Bennet returned only a few dry, disinterested responses and offered them the use of any book in his study to entertain themselves with. Darcy was only too glad to take his offer and selected volume on farming theory. He had only finished the introduction however when Bingley, apparently unable to find a book to his liking, sat next to Darcy and said restlessly. "I hope my Jane returns quickly, I was going to ask her opinion on inviting my second cousin to the wedding. You've met Peter, before haven't you Darcy? What is your opinion?"
Darcy considered for a moment. He did remember Peter Thorsby, a nice fellow who had once joined them for an afternoon of hunting and then an evening's entertainment at the opera. However, despite the man's pleasantness, he was still in trade. Thus, Darcy knew what Miss Bingley's opinion had been, that it must be better to distance themselves as quickly as they could from the 'scent of trade'. For himself Darcy had to agree that it would be smart to do so, in a larger social sense. However, this was not just a social event but the wedding of Charles Bingley and Jane Bennet. Darcy knew it would sadden his friend to leave out his relative and friend and that Jane would certainly disagree with such an exclusion. Darcy also knew that a certain association with some members of the trade industry was inevitable, as he had heard Jane's relatives would be attending.
"Invite your cousin, Bingley, if it is your wish. It will have little impact on anything but your own happiness." Darcy assured his friend.
This was obviously the answer Bingley had hoped for and with a smile, slapped his own thigh. "that's what I thought! Caroline was so sure that it would be a disaster!"
"Your sister is worried, I think, of her own marriage prospects and rightfully so. However, in this case, I believe she is being overly fastidious."
Bingley's expression crumbled into worry, "Yes, I can see why she would be. I had hoped with the announcement of your courtship-" Bingley flushed and glanced at Mr. Bennet, who while still looking at his book seemed to be listening to them, "Well, I had hoped that she would be interested in the season this year. I had thought she would return to London as soon as the wedding is completed but last evening she mentioned staying through the summer!"
The barely concealed horror that washed over Bingley's face at the thought of spending his first few months married while living with his unmarried sister was comical. Darcy withheld his reaction but heard a quiet chuckle coming from Mr. Bennet. He glanced in that direction and saw Mr. Bennet still looking at his book but now wearing a smirk.
Darcy felt awkward. Though of course Bingley knew full well that Bennet was in the room and was apparently willing to be this open with his future father-in-law, Darcy was not. He did not like Mr. Bennet, did not like talking of personal subjects or the feeling of being on display. Sighing he replied, "Not to worry, Bingley, I'm sure that she will not be so long entertained here when all the pleasures of London are awaiting her."
The reminder of how much Ms. Bingley liked London seemed to comfort his friend and Bingley sprang up from his chair to the window, looking out with hopeful expression. He could not actually see the road from this window, but it seemed to give him comfort to simply see the world she was in. "I hope Jane is back soon, for I have ever so many things to talk of with her. Though, of course… I don't wish to hurry her in any way. I hope she has a very pleasant morning, calling on all her friends!"
Darcy wanted to point out the flaw in this statement but being similarly caught between his selfish desire to see Elizabeth quickly and the tender desire to not deny her of any pleasure, he kept his peace.
"I shouldn't suppose they shall be much longer out," commented Mr. Bennet, "I believe I heard mention of them visiting Mrs. Bennet's sister. That of course will be a significant visit for I'm sure that there will be much to speak of there. But the only other name I picked up out of the chatter was the Moore family. That probably will not be a visit of long duration, unless of course their older children are visiting."
Darcy caught a hint of an expression or perhaps a tone that he felt was a tease but wasn't sure were the humor in the comment was coming from and so made no reply.
Bingley was not so suspicious and so replied, "Oh yes? Are any of your family very close to the older Moore children?"
"Well, Elizabeth was very close to their daughter Evelyn. Those girls got on like nothing else when they were young! And of course, there is their oldest son, John. He and Jane, well… they used to be quite good friends as well." Mr. Bennet said with a sparkle in his eye.
Bingley, who had been leaning against the windowsill, stood up abruptly. "I hadn't heard- that is, I mean… good friends, you say?"
"Oh yes, quite good." Bennet answered with the calm, affectionate tone of a father reminiscing about his child's past. "I hope, if he is there, they get a chance to catch up, maybe he will walk her home as he used to do so often."
Bingley looked so extremely startled and tense that Darcy decided to rescue him. Despite believing he was playing into Mr. Bennet's design to be rid of them, he stood and said, "If you believe Mr. Bennet, that they are likely on their way home by now, how about we go to meet them Bingley? Tis a pleasant morning after all."
"Indeed, it is! that sounds most pleasant!" Bingley said and bowing to Mr. Bennet, quickly made his way to the door.
"Yes, yes, have a nice walk." Said Mr. Bennet, waving them off, then called out, as if with an afterthought, "and if you see a heart with a couple of Js in it carved into the large oak by the stables, don't concern yourself, it was merely childhood silliness."
Darcy stopped in the doorway and sent Mr. Bennet a disapproving look, but the man only laughed and went back to his book. Quickly gathering his hat and coat, he quickened his steps to catch up with his friend. He found him near the stables, checking trees.
He sighed, "Come now, Bingley, you know he was only teasing you."
"Probably yes, however, it is doubtless that he was also telling the truth!" He retorted in frustrated tones. He made a complete circle around the tree he was inspecting and then hurried to the next "She's an angel, Darcy, an actual angel! You think I would be the first to notice?"
Darcy shook his head as Bingley finished inspecting that tree and ran to another. As he circled it, Bingley said. "Remember the story Mrs. Bennet told us of the sonnets that Jane had received when she was but fifteen! Seven year have passed since then, there must have been all manner of men who-" Bingley suddenly stopped and stared at a part of the tree that Darcy couldn't see. Bingley's face was flushed with emotion when he called, "have you a knife on you, Darcy?"
Darcy did not, but there was one in his saddle bag. He called for a stable boy to bring it and after receiving it, brought the knife to his friend. When he made the delivery, he could see what Bingley had seen, there was indeed an old carving of a heart with two Js in the center. As he watched his friend aggressively scratch out the old lines, Darcy knew that much as it galled him to admit it, if their roles were reversed, he would be doing the same. The idea of Elizabeth's name paired with another man's in such a way would rob him of reasonable thought. Especially if it had been- No, no, he would not let his mind go there. In any case, it amazed him that Mr. Bennet had let such a carving remain when it could have been seen as scandalous by many in society. How very like Mr. Bennet, thought Darcy, to make a joke of it when he should have done something to protect his daughter from gossip.
As soon as the shape and letters were scratched beyond recognition, Bingley jumped back with a satisfied look. Having vented his jealousy on the unfortunate tree, he was already back to his usual good cheer. "Come Darcy, let us see if we can stumble upon the ladies!"
With cheerful comradery the two friends made their way down the Longbourn road. Darcy letting Bingley chat away happily of this or that until, rounding a bend they saw the four ladies coming toward them. As the two groups neared each other, Mrs. Bennet threw up her hand and waved at them enthusiastically. "Oh, what nice manners these are! Aren't they, my girls? It's such a nice compliment to both of you!"
The men and women met, and the correct bows and curtsies made, reformed as one party. Darcy smiled down at Elizabeth who beamed back. Mrs. Bennet was chattering on, but Darcy barely noticed, all he could see was Elizabeth. She looked happy, flushed from her morning exercise and exquisitely beautiful. He offered his arm and she took it without hesitation. Before he could ask after her morning however, he heard Mrs. Bennet exclaim, "It would be very pleasant I am sure, to stroll along with you at such a sedate pace! However, I am very much pressed for time as Mr. Bennet and indeed, Longbourn cannot be long without me! I am so very busy all the time, despite how hard those pressures are on my nerves! Yet, I would not hurry you forward on my account. Certainly not! So, I will hurry home on my own, Kitty come with me, dear I need your help with something! And you all have a nice stroll. Don't worry if it takes some time, Jane dear, Lizzy, have you shown the men the view from the south field? I assure you gentlemen, its very nice! It's a bit far but definitely worth the walk!" and with this she hurried ahead with a giggling Miss Kitty chasing after.
Darcy found himself perfectly happy to forgive Mrs. Bennet's lack of tact. He glanced down at Elizabeth who was blushing but laughed when he caught her eye. "What say you, Mr. Darcy, are you suddenly, overwhelmingly curious of the view from our south field?" she asked saucily.
"I must admit that I am. How strange," he returned dryly and she giggled.
He glanced back at Bingley only to see him all but pulling Miss Bennet toward the nearest tree, knife in hand once more. Darcy couldn't hold back a chuckle. He had thought it all over with the destruction of the first heart but now he suspected it would soon be replaced. "What are they about? Mr. Darcy, why does he have a knife?" Elizabeth asked somewhat alarmed.
Gently he tugged her away and down the road. "Worry not, I believe I know his intention. The only one at risk is a tree." She allowed herself to be led away and Darcy told her about the revelation and consequential destruction of the heart near the stables. She laughed heartily at his dry but playful description of Bingley rushing from tree to tree.
"Poor Mr. Bingley though! I hope Jane is able to comfort him with the information that there was never anything between her and John Moore! He, perhaps, liked her at one time but so did most men in our acquaintance! And he is quite happily married now I assure you. Father ought not have teased him so!"
"I doubt the information that 'most of the men in your acquaintance' liked her at one time or another, will be very comforting to Bingley."
"Well, she would not say such a thing. She probably doesn't even believe it to be true. In any case, I have never seen Jane so in love as she is now. Mr. Bingley need not worry on that score. As I am sure he is perfectly aware, though perhaps he is not entirely rational on the subject."
"And you?" asked Darcy, to his own amazement. As soon as the words left his mouth, he realized that he didn't want to know of any feelings she had ever felt for another man.
"What of me?" she asked innocently.
Darcy considered changing the subject but was unable to contain his unwilling curiosity. As much he refused to bring up a certain name, it still worried him that she might feel something for another man. "Was there any… are there any carved hearts on these trees with an 'E' included in them?"
Elizabeth only laughed. "I doubt it! Though to be honest I didn't know about the one near the stables, so it's possible…I would not think so however. I was never one to inspire such whimsical romance like Jane was. I was a wild child and unfortunately am too outspoken for the tastes of most men."
Happy then his question had been answered with such ease as spoke of no strong attachments in her past, Darcy couldn't be entirely pleased with her response. This was not the first time she had compared herself negatively to her sister.
"You are not outspoken, you are clever and vivacious."
She smiled at his compliment but there was something like distance in her expression as if she thought him polite instead of sincere. Before he could push the subject, she stopped and gestured at a track leading away from the road, "If you are truly desirous to see the south fields, this is the way."
It was a work-cart path, a little overgrown and muddy but Darcy happily led Elizabeth toward it. The risk of soiling his boots meant little in the face of this opportunity to walk with Elizabeth in private. He was pleased to see that the path was empty and would soon be sheltered by a copse of trees. Darcy was glad again of the imminent shelter when a sudden gust of wind pulled at Elizabeth's skirts and she gave a small shiver.
He tried to walk a little closer and cast a disparaging glance at her thin shawl. "It is still cold at times, you ought to have brought a warmer cloak."
"I am alright, it was only cold for a moment. Mostly, I would be too warm in my winter wear while walking."
They both glanced up at the sky, it was starting to get a little cloudy but was still a beautiful day. Darcy shook his head and said, "Better to be too warm then to catch cold. You should be mindful of that and cautious of your health."
"Is this for my benefit or yours, good sir?"
A little startled and confused by the question he looked down to see her delightful eyebrow raised. "How would it benefit me? Other than to comfort me by knowing you are safe and comfortable?"
"Why to keep me at your disposal, Mr. Darcy! For I know how much you like those around you to be at your disposal and if I were to catch a cold, I would not be able to entertain you as you wished!"
"That is a very cynical perspective, Miss Bennet. I am injured at your judgement of my character."
"Perhaps, but am I mistaken? Are you informing me that you would not miss me if I were to be cooped up in my rooms for a week?"
"That is certainly not what I am saying." Darcy asserted and taking her hand from his elbow he kissed her gloved fingers. "I would miss you terribly and certainly send everyone around me to the insane asylums. Nevertheless, my concern is for your comfort alone."
Elizabeth blushed but didn't pull her hand away so instead of releasing it, Darcy intertwined their fingers and held her hand tightly as the ambled on. It took a moment or two for Elizabeth to regain her composure and Darcy stayed quiet as well, simply enjoying the feeling of her hand in his. Her glove was a nuisance however and as they enter the copse of trees, he halted them and lifting her hand up and pulled her glove off. He did it slowly, almost expecting her to pull away or ask him to stop but she did not. And when he tucked the glove in his own pocket and met her eyes again, they were soft and happy. He hadn't been wearing a glove to begin with and so he delighted in the feel of her soft, bare hand in his. As they walked on, he also delighted in her responses, she was perfectly ladylike and innocent but still warm and affectionate and he couldn't help but love her more every time he met her.
Suddenly this thought reminded him of something he wished to ask her. "Why did you run away? This morning when we saw each other?"
"Oh, I-" She shrugged in an embarrassed manner, "I was rather silly, wasn't I? How you must have laughed."
"I did not laugh, I was only a bit confused."
"I… apologize, as I already admitted I was being very silly. You see, I suddenly thought that you were going to… to kiss me."
Darcy stopped and worriedly said, "And the idea caused you to run away? Have I been such a brute?" It was very worrisome thought as that absolutely had been his intention.
"No! No, it was just that… we were so very alone, and no one was expecting us back for some time and…"
Elizabeth smiled sheepishly and looked away, shaking her head. Darcy couldn't help stepping a bit closer and bending down to look under her bonnet brim. He caught her unwilling eye and smiled his reassurance. Suddenly she laughed and said, "In truth, I was worried that if we started to kiss, we wouldn't stop!" And then quickly covered her mouth with her hand.
Darcy couldn't help himself, he burst out laughing. Reaching out he caught both her hands and kissing them said, "My dearest Elizabeth, I admire both your wisdom in judging me and the situation. As well as your fortitude in fleeing the dangerous situation. However, there is one flaw your plan to avoid it."
Elizabeth smiled self-consciously and, glancing down both sides of the empty road, said, "is it that I have once again found myself in the same predicament?"
"Yes, indeed." he said, his tone adoring instead of teasing. Slowly, waiting for any sign of unease, he lifted his hand and touched her cheek. Stroked it gently and then traced her lips with his fingertips. Her breath escaped in a faint gasp and she made a tiny, unconscious step forward. This was all the encouragement he needed, Darcy softly cupped the back of her neck and kissed her lips. Tenderly, he kissed, pressed and stroked her lips with his every touch sending shockwaves of pleasure through his entire body. He felt her hands tentatively touch his sides and then felt her first shy attempts to kiss him back.
All conscious thought escaped him and for several moments all he could feel or know was her. Her body in his arms, her lips on his, her quickened breath mixing with his and the tiny sounds she made as he kissed her.
A sudden bird call broke the silence and Darcy came back to himself all at once. He knew he was holding her too closely, kissing her too long. But he didn't want to stop, and he couldn't make himself push her away. Instead he gentled the kiss and eased back slightly. Another small step back and he kissed the corner of her mouth and then her cheek. "Dearest Elizabeth," he breathed, having no other words.
Then, instead of releasing her, gently encircled her in his arms once again. He held her for a long moment while both of them found their composure and a kind of comfort in each other's touch. He pressed a kiss to her bonnet. "I love you, Elizabeth," he whispered, "Desperately and ardently, I love you."