Epilogue.
One of the happiest days of Mrs. Bennet's life was when she saw her two eldest daughters married. For a fleeting moment she missed Mr. Bennet, but it was only fleeting as she took congratulations from everyone in her success of having two daughters married. Kitty and Lydia were more giddy than normal and kept begging their two older sisters for balls so they too could find suitable husbands. Mary managed to remain immune to everything that was going on around her and only realised she had to attend a wedding on the day it took place.
Mr. Gardiner arrived three days before the wedding took place. Mrs. Gardiner had to stay at home as she could not travel such a long way as she was drawing closer and closer to her confinement. It was from Mr. Gardiner that Elizabeth learned that Mr. Darcy had settled a large amount of money on Mr. Collins so he gave up his rights to Longbourn and that her mother had enough money to maintain a household for her lifetime. Elizabeth was shocked but touched at what he had done. Mr. Gardiner promised to tell Mrs. Bennet after the wedding. They both agreed it would be too much of a shock if she was told at once and they worried what she might say at the wedding breakfast.
Georgiana travelled up from Kent and she looked almost as radiant as the two brides. She was so happy with her painting and was looking forward to being in London in September. "But first I must come to Pemberley. I know you're going to be so happy," she said, hugging Elizabeth.
And Elizabeth was happy. When the reverend pronounced them man and wife she felt as if her heart was going to burst.
The only person who had not been invited to the wedding was Lady Catherine, who when she found out that the wedding was still taking place wrote a letter to Mr. Darcy that was so critical and vicious about Elizabeth that Mr. Darcy vowed never to speak to her again.
The wedding breakfast was held at Netherfield and although she had to endure barbed comments from Miss Bingley, nothing could cloud her happiness. Even saying goodbye to Jane as she and Mr. Darcy departed was not quite the wrench she expected it to be. Mr. Darcy had invited the new Mr. and Mrs. Bingley to come and stay with them when they returned from their honeymoon.
"Are you happy, Mrs. Darcy?" asked Mr. Darcy as they drove away, oblivious to the people who were throwing petals and shouting their congratulations.
"Very, Mr. Darcy," said Elizabeth, her eyes shining brightly and Mr. Darcy pulled her into his arms and she willingly gave herself up to his loving embrace as their lips touched for the first time.
That's it. Lizzy and Darcy happy at last. I hope you enjoyed the story. Thanks again for all your comments. They are all appreciated.