Elizabeth

"Lizzy? Next month is the official end of your mourning period for Brandon. Have you decided whether you are going to go into half-mourning? I would be happy to give you some of my dresses to remake if mother balks at the cost."

Elizabeth smiled at her sister. Jane was always so selfless. "Thank you, Jane. Indeed, I will be going to go into half-mourning. Father set aside money to purchase three new dresses and I have saved some pin money as well. I know Brandon and I were not yet married but I am not sure I will ever stop loving him."

Tears began to well in Elizabeth's eyes but she blinked them away as Jane engulfed her in a tight embrace. "Of course you will always love him. You were childhood sweethearts. No one expects you to have gotten over him, not yet. Your feelings do you credit. I just pray that you will allow for the possibility that someday, there may be another who will fill your heart."

Looking at herself in the mirror as she plaited her hair for bed, it was hard for Elizabeth to reconcile the fact that she looked much the same on the outside as she did a year ago when her life had been so perfect, but on the inside she felt hollow. She had loved Brandon her whole life and then, one day, without warning, he was gone. She sighed and turned back to Jane. "Perhaps. While I have not closed my mind to the possibility, I cannot fathom it will be any time soon."

Yawning, Jane conceded, "Of course not, dear. Good night." With that, the two sisters climbed into bed and blew out their candles to sleep. Within minutes, Jane was quietly snoring (though she would be mortified to be told so) but even hours later, Elizabeth stared at the ceiling cursing her wasted heart.

A Month Later

Elizabeth awoke early — as was her usual custom — and rose to dress. Taking a quick peak out the window to confirm the weather, she thought, Yes, I do believe a long walk is in order. However, she started when she opened her wardrobe and saw only her new dresses. All of her black dresses, which had in many ways served to comfort her over the last year, had been removed leaving only the muted grey tones of half-mourning and one evening gown in lavender.

Elizabeth sighed heavily, not sure she was ready for this outward sign that her life was moving on. It didn't feel like her heart had healed. There were still days when she still ached with loneliness. On those days she either walked to the banks of the river where she and Brandon often shared a picnic or stared at Netherfield Park from the top of Oakham Mount. Her mind often replayed the scenes of she and her sisters playing there as children, running about the house whenever their mothers visited for tea, or the first time Brandon held her hand as they walked through the rose garden. They had been but sixteen when he confessed his regard for her had changed from friendship to, well, more.

She shook her head, grateful that for the most part she could think on these times with fondness and smile but there were still days when Elizabeth would receive good news and her first thought would be that she couldn't wait to tell Brandon and then the grief would hit her anew.

Having decided on the most functional of her dresses, a medium grey bombazine, Elizabeth quickly dressed, made her way downstairs to the breakfast room to grab an apple for her walk, and escaped out the kitchen door before any of her family — if they were up — could comment on her change in clothing. The air was crisp and the fog had not quite burned away with the rising sun but the day promised to be pleasant. She made good time, traipsing through the fields and up the mount so when she reached the peak, she felt refreshed and renewed. Perhaps this change wouldn't be as traumatic as she'd feared. After all, clothing couldn't dictate her feelings.

Pulling out the latest Edgeworth novel she'd bought while in Meryton, Elizabeth spent the next hour reading, lost in the machinations of London society, suitors, and a young woman named Belinda. It wasn't until she stood up and was brushing the leaves from her dress that Elizabeth noticed the flurry of activity at Netherfield. Were the Harringtons returning? Her breath caught in her chest at the thought of seeing Brandon's family again. They had removed to London a few months after Brandon's death and Netherfield had stood empty ever since. Rumors abounded that the family planned to sell the estate — she couldn't blame them seeing as how the heir was deceased. Why would they not have written to inform me… er well, to Father?

Making haste back to Longbourn, Elizabeth found she was near frantic by the time she entered her father's study, even opening the door without so much as waiting for a response to her knock. "Father?"

Mr. Bennet looked up at his second eldest daughter and immediately knew the cause of her distress. He had known for two weeks that Netherfield Park had been let but had not been able to find the right way to tell her. Elizabeth had only recently begun to act more like her old self. He couldn't bear to bring her news that would surely be distressing and possibly even cause her to retreat within herself again. He stood, walked around his desk, and took both her hands in his.

"Ah, so you know do you?"

"What do I know and why didn't you tell me?"

Mr. Bennet cleared his throat. "Sit child."

He waited until she did so and then opened his mouth to continue. However before he could, from down the hall they heard Mrs. Bennet's shrill exclamation, "Netherfield Park is let at last!"

Elizabeth blanched and turned her watery eyes back to her father. "Is it true? The Harringtons are not to return… ever?"

With a heavy sigh, Mr. Bennet sat in the chair across from her. "It is, my dear. I received a letter saying as much. I think they just could not bear the pain and constant reminders of their loss."

A fresh sob broke loose as Elizabeth dropped her head into her hands. After taking a moment to compose herself, she asked, "Have you met the new tenants? Is it a family with many children? Or perhaps an older couple retiring to the country?"

With mournful eyes, he nodded. "I paid a call yesterday morning to the new master. He is a young man of large fortune. I am afraid we both know what that means." He attempted a small smile, hoping that she would reciprocate. There was nothing he could handle with less equanimity that a woman's tears. Well, sincere tears. He had learned to rather enjoy manipulating his wife's hysterics years ago.

Elizabeth sat up and steeled herself for the inevitable drama. "Of course, mother will set her sights on his marrying one of us. Thank God I am in still in mourning." Mrs. Bennet's match-making efforts were well known, much to Elizabeth's chagrin. Her bitter laugh was not unexpected but in its own way, confirmed to Mr. Bennet that Elizabeth was beginning to heal. She may never be the same carefree child he knew, but she would come out of this a stronger woman than ever before.

"Don't be too hard on her, dear, your mother had thought your marriage would save you all from the hedgerows. As much as she loved Brandon, she also keenly feels the need to see you girls well settled. Though I must say, the urgency with which she has taken on the task is alarming. I had not realized she thought me so unwell. Perhaps I ought to take up walking, as you do, so I can regain my youth and vigor."

His attempt at humor, had the desired effect and Elizabeth cracked a small, almost imperceptible smile — a fact which gave him hope that she had progressed further in the grieving process than he imagined.

Darcy

Darcy held up the invitation to the Meryton Assembly. "Really, Charles, we have only just arrived. I hardly think a public assembly is the best place to make a first impression on the town."

Bingley didn't bother to hide his amusement at his friend's predictably reticent response, "Nonsense! It is the perfect way to make a good impression. What better way to get to know people than at a country dance? We can be introduced to all the most important families - and their lovely daughters in one fell swoop! I would have thought you would jump at the chance to observe the local inhabitants' 'in their natural habitat' so to speak."

Darcy thought about this for a moment. While he loathed large gatherings, Charles made an excellent point. He might glean valuable insight by observing the key players and he would be able to discover who those players truly were much more efficiently if they were all attending the same assembly. So, despite the fact that he was tired from his journey, Darcy decided that perhaps the evening wouldn't be a total loss. "What time should I be prepared to depart?"

Bingley practically danced in his excitement, "Wonderful! I knew you'd come around. We depart at 9:00 p.m. Caroline wanted to leave later to make an entrance but I think that would be unpardonably rude."

Darcy had a feeling Caroline simply wanted to decrease the duration of the evening but he decided against saying so. For better or worse, she was Bingley's sister and he wouldn't speak ill of her to Charless. Or anyone really. Only once had Darcy ever made a comment against her but that had been out of self-preservation.

Three years ago, Charles and Caroline had come to Pemberley for an extended visit. After Caroline's third attempt to get him alone, Darcy had told Charles that if Caroline couldn't maintain a certain level of propriety — despite their families' close connection — he would have to ask them to cut their visit short. Charles had been mortified that she would behave so and vowed to 'take her in hand'. What little change had been wrought was short-lived and Darcy had decided to refrain from further comment unless absolutely necessary. His friendship with Charles was one of a handful that truly meant something to him and he was not willing to risk it over Caroline's unrealistic, but mostly harmless, expectations of becoming Mrs. Darcy.

Upon entering the raucous assembly room, Darcy immediately began to question his earlier judgement. Their party consisted of himself, Charles Bingley (the actual tenant of Netherfield), Charles' sister Caroline Bingley, Charles' sister Louisa Hurst and her husband. But from the looks of awe on the faces of those assembled you'd have thought Prinny himself had walked in behind them. Darcy even checked over his shoulder briefly to make sure.

Soon enough a man by the name of Sir William Lucas approached, "Mr. Bingley! I am so pleased you were able to join us!"

Bingley dutifully made the required introductions and then their host proceeded to lead their party around the room to meet a few prominent families. Darcy did not fail to notice that first among them, was the man's clearly eager wife and single daughter. And so it begins, he thought to himself.

Bingley, being the social butterfly, seemed eager to please all around him in equal measure. At least that was the case until they were introduced to the Bennet family. Upon being introduced to the eldest Miss Bennet, Darcy saw all the telltale signs that she would be Bingley's newest infatuation. Though she was beautiful, to be sure, she seemed to Darcy rather dull, though a more generous person might call her 'serene'.

The rest of the Bennets were hardly memorable, save the second eldest whose name he thought he remembered to be Miss Elizabeth (I will have to pay more attention if I am not to embarrass my host) but whose eyes struck him as rather unique. They held a measure of intelligence and spark of humor he did not often see in young ladies of the ton. Almost as quickly as he noticed her eyes, he noticed her dress and his heart momentarily softened toward her. He wondered that she attended at all, but perhaps she had little say in the matter.

Darcy watched as Bingley danced his way into the hearts and minds of the men and women of the neighborhood. He would clearly be popular wherever he went. Unfortunately, as Darcy circled the room, he overhead talk of large incomes and estate sizes which, while not uncommon, never failed to put him in a dark mood. Approaching the refreshments table with the vague hope of finding something palatable, he found Miss Elizabeth and Miss Lucas engaged in what appeared to be a particularly hilarious conversation as both women were shaking with laughter.

He filled a glass and turned back toward the dancing, all the while not realizing he was standing rather close to the aforementioned ladies. Miss Elizabeth turned toward him, "Mr. Darcy, do you stand here to join us in conversation or are you hiding from one of the match-making mamas?"

Darcy started at her bold speech but began to relax upon seeing her genuine smile and her friend's barely concealed, though amused, horror. Seeing his concern, Elizabeth continued. "Fear not sir, if you are need of refuge, you have come to the right place. As Charlotte has recently stubbed her toe and I am in mourning, neither of us is looking for a dance partner. At the same time, however, should you choose to join us, not only would you be safe but you would also garner further approval from the town by being seen making time to entertain us poor wallflowers."

At this, Darcy could not help himself and laughed openly. "Somehow, Miss Bennet, I do not believe for a moment that anyone here would think of you as a "wallflower". Though I humbly accept your offer of protection from some of the more 'persistent' match-makers."

"Mr Darcy," Charlotte began, and he turned his attention to her fully, "Are you to be in Hertfordshire long?"

"I am planning to stay for several weeks, Madame. As you know, my friend has recently taken possession of Netherfield Park and I have agreed to help him get settled." He noticed at the mention of Netherfield, a quick flash of emotion crossed Miss Elizabeth's face but he could not understand its meaning. He wondered also that she was in mourning while the rest of her family was not, and yet, she was 'Miss' Elizabeth and not 'Mrs. _". He could not ask her directly, of course, and he was not one for gossip, but something about her intrigued him and he found himself wanting to get to know her better. "It is a rather lovely country and I have been told there is uncommonly good fishing in the rivers nearby."

"To be sure, there is! Eliza could probably tell you all the best places as her family's estate borders Mr. Bingley's."

"Oh? Do you fish?" Darcy asked, eyes wide with surprise. Though it was not unheard of for a woman to fish, it certainly was not common.

For her part, Elizabeth was a little perturbed that Charlotte would so openly push her toward the newcomer. When had Charlotte become a match-maker? They would certainly discuss this later. "I have been known to catch a fish or two in my time. Does that shock you, Sir?"

The challenge in her eyes was unmistakeable. "Not at all. I believe — even upon such short acquaintance — you might be capable of a great many things should you so desire." Darcy was immediately gratified to see the unaffected smile spread across Elizabeth's face.

"Ah, Mr. Darcy, I see you have a discerning nature," Charlotte smiled up at him, "but I think you will find Eliza takes amusement in confounding expectations so you may have inadvertently given her a challenge."

"Charlotte, please. You would have Mr. Darcy thinking me quite the eccentric. I much prefer people figure that out with time." All three laughed and Darcy mused that this was indeed a peculiar conversation. They bantered back and forth for another few minutes and Darcy found himsself quite enjoying the evening, or he had been until Caroline sauntered over.

Darcy had always felt Caroline moved much like a cat stalking its prey. There was nothing casual or lighthearted in her manner. It was in all ways calculated so she appeared to her best advantage. And while she was attractive, she was far from genuine — an important trait for the next Mistress of Pemberley.

"Oh there you are, Darcy." She practically purred and a briefly rested a hand on his arm, clearly staking her claim. Damn and blast! The last thing I need is for people to think I am in any way attached to Caroline. I may have to speak with Charles again. It didn't occur to Darcy that under normal circumstances, he would not have cared what people thought and occasionally Caroline's possessive demeanor had spared him from too many ladies attempting to 'catch him'.

He moved his arm just enough to cause her to remove her hand, "Yes, Caroline, here I am. As you can see, I have been furthering my acquaintance with Miss Elizabeth and Miss Lucas. Is there something I can help you with?" Perhaps his voice held a little more contempt than he had intended for he noticed Miss Elizabeth quickly drop her head to hide a smile. She and Miss Lucas appeared suddenly very interested in their glasses of punch.

Caroline seemed not to notice however and continued to make eyes at him, "Oh, I believe one of my migraines in coming on. Perhaps you could help me convince Charles to retire early?" She whined as she raised her hand to shield her eyes from the overhead candelabra. She really could have been a fine actress in another life, Darcy thought to himself.

Seeing no alternative, he made his apologies and bowed to Elizabeth and Charlotte. "It was a pleasure to meet you. I do hope we have an opportunity to continue our acquaintance in the future." They smiled and curtsied in return. Each offering their own sincere best wishes for Miss Bingley's quick recovery.

Oh, I'd wager as soon as we are on the carriage, she will make a miraculous recovery, Darcy mused.

Darcy

As I suspected, the moment we'd all settled in the carriage, Caroline's migraine vanished into the night air. She and Louisa wasted no time and began their campaign to get Charles to return to London and to 'civilization'.

"Oh Charles, can you not see how savage these country people are?" Caroline complained, looking to Louisa for backup.

Ever the loyal sister, Louisa jumped in, "And their clothes… I am quite sure I did not see a single lady dressed in this year's fashions. I felt as if I had traveled back in time at least three seasons!"

Bingley rolled his eyes, "Don't be so shallow, Louisa. It wouldn't matter one bit if they were wearing paper sacks! I found them to be quite pleasant," then looking at Darcy, "and several of the young ladies were uncommonly pretty." To this comment Hurst simply grunted his agreement.

It was Darcy's turn to roll his eyes. "Yes, I dare say some of them were. Have you decided which will be the next love of your life?"

Feigning offense, Bingley put his hand to his chest. "That is rather unkind, Darce. But now that you mention it… Miss Jane Bennet is rather lovely. And amiable. I saw you speaking with her sister, Miss Elizabeth. As a matter of fact, you were uncharacteristically social this evening."

Not one to be left out of the conversation, Caroline asked, "Oh yes, which one was she again? The spinster or the one in widow's weeds?"

Louisa, reveling in the chance to share what she had learned, practically pounced, "The older one is Miss Lucas. Poor thing. So plain and I hear she is a bit of a bluestocking. And Miss Elizabeth is not, in fact, a widow." Pleased that she had their rapt attention, she continued, "No, Mrs. Phillips, her aunt, told me she had been engaged to be married to the heir of Netherfield. Quite the fairy tale romance she said."

Without thinking Darcy leaned forward and asked, "What happened?"

Looking at him as if he was quite daft, she answered, "Well he died, Darcy."

Swallowing his ire, "Obviously, Louisa. I meant, how did he die?"

"Oh, she didn't say. Only that it was unexpected and the poor dear has only recently changed to half-mourning. Quite heart-broken, apparently."

He sat back and looked out the window of the coach at the passing landscape well lit by the full moon. Darcy contemplated this information while the others continued in their discussion. It made sense, Miss Elizabeth had been engaged. No wonder she had reacted when he mentioned Netherfield. It was to have been her home. He could see that she would likely have been considered quite the catch in a town like Meryton. He had enjoyed speaking with her himself — would enjoy speaking to her again if the opportunity arose.

Then the thought occurred to him that if Charles were to pursue Miss Bennet, Darcy would indeed be in Miss Elizabeth's company quite often. It was not an unpleasant thought. He would be able to relax in her presence knowing that she had no personal interest in him beyond friendship. She had said as much. It really was the perfect solution to the constant problem he faced when in society… mercenary young ladies and their pushy mothers.

In addition to the protection Miss Elizabeth's friendship would provide, Darcy felt sure he would enjoy her keen sense of humor and quick wit. Yes, the more he thought about his time in Hertfordshire, the more he was beginning to think this little vacation might be just the respite he needed.

Elizabeth

The rest of the evening Elizabeth and Charlotte spoke of the party from Netherfield. "Charlotte, whilst talking to Mr. Darcy, I couldn't help but notice you seemed intent on teasing me. I know you mean no harm but I can't figure out your motive."

"Eliza, it is quite simple. I thought perhaps this new acquaintance would be beneficial for both of us. If he handled himself well — as I expected he would — then he would prove worthy of our time. If he was scandalized by our teasing, then we would have saved ourselves the trouble."

"Hmm, that is an interesting strategy. Is there any particular reason you wanted get to know the gentleman better, Charlotte?" Elizabeth smiled hoping to see a blush rise upon her friend's cheeks. She was not disappointed.

"He is rather handsome, do you not think? A lady would have to be blind not to admire his classically sculpted features."

Quickly looking around to confirm she would not be overheard, Elizabeth smiled and whispered conspiratorially, "True, but what is truly breathtaking was his smile." After another thoughtful moment, she added, "Well, Charlotte, he may have passed your first test but it will take more time before I have determined if he is worthy of you."

"Hmm, we shall see. But I cannot say I am too fond of Miss Bingley. I wonder if she will be much in company or if her "migraines" will keep her home?" They both quietly chuckled.

"Charlotte, if I didn't know better I would think you were being uncharitable just now."

"No. I would never. It really is too bad that his sisters are so… contrary because Mr. Bingley appears to be an amiable gentleman. And he seemed to take a liking to our Jane."

Elizabeth beamed with sisterly pride. "I thought so too and Jane seemed rather taken with him as well. We shall have to keep an eye on him to determine his worth, for Jane's heart is sensitive and would not hold up if disappointed."

Elizabeth could admit that she loved the idea of love. She enjoyed seeing people fall in love and grow together. And more than anything, she truly hoped her sisters would experience what she had already: a love match. Though Elizabeth had no hope that it would happen for her again, she felt no bitterness. She had loved and been loved and that was enough for her.

On the carriage ride home, Mrs. Bennet was in raptures. "Oh Jane, I knew you could not be so beautiful for nothing! Mr. Bingley couldn't take his eyes off of you. And Lizzy, I saw you speaking with Mr. Darcy. He is a handsome man, is he not?"

"Oh mother, you can not mean to imply that I am somehow setting my 'widow's cap' for him?"

"Of course not dear but it cannot hurt Jane's chances with Mr. Bingley if you win over his friend. You always have been clever," Then she added under her breath, "…if not beautiful."

Elizabeth winced at the backhanded compliment. Ever since Brandon died, Mrs. Bennet had taken to inserting these little barbs into their conversations. It was almost as if she blamed Elizabeth for her own disappointed hopes. It stung, but Elizabeth tried to ignore it.