Hello! You patient, faithful, PnP fandom, you!

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a newbie 'writer' may take much longer than she thought she would for her next update. Sorry. It's been a while.

As an apology, two Chapters! I started with the idea of flashbacks, but it all got SO big! Chapter 5 was written before chapter 4. And then, I had a HUGE gap to fill. My Muse simply refused to work chronologically. AND apparently I'm my own worst enemy when self-editing.

PS1. Hornby Castle in YORK was partly torn down early in the 20th Century. Please don't confuse with its namesake in LANCASTER.

PS2. Question, Can you tell me which building I'm having standing in as Pemberley? There are some clues on chapter two and some more clues in this one!

Happiness is not something ready made,

It comes from your own actions."

—Dalai Lama—

"Happiness is like a butterfly, which, when pursued,

is always beyond our grasp.

But if you will sit down quietly,

may alight upon you."

—Nathaniel Hawthorne—

FOUR

A TIME IN OLYMPUS

"Soon my darling... Soon my love..." He cooed softly as he wiped her brow.

"I am tired... George... I cannot..." He heard his wife's voice sounding so incredibly tired, he could do naught but worry.

Time ceased to be of importance for him. Even though every second still counted. Such a paradox. To be that lost inside the moment, with no real comprehension of it, and yet, be aware of every second that passed them by. After an eternity, it seemed, they heard their babe's first cry. It was truly the most unique sound for both of them. Transcendent to be sure, to hear the voice of their child for the first time.

"It is a girl!" Exclaimed both the midwife and the doctor.

Twin smiles of blissful joy lit Anne and George's faces.

"Daughter! I have a daughter!" The new father was overjoyed.

"May our God look after her, protect her... Always..." She did what any mother would do for their child, she prayed for her babe's safety.

After such pronouncement, both were too distracted to notice anyone else but the owner of that single heartbeat. True, they may not be able to hear it, but they felt it, as if they were physically tethered to her. They could not but keep a watchful eye on their daughter.

All the exhaustion the Lady felt a moment before mattered not, she forgot about it. All activity around her faded, except for what Dr. Barkley and Mrs. Aberdeen did. The pair's eyes followed them keenly. They wanted, no, they needed their daughter with them. A few moments more. They waited.

The midwife stayed with her patient, she still had to take care of a few things. Avoiding a fever from setting in was of vital importance. She needed to make sure –if possible— that the afterbirth was taken care of properly. After a thorough inspection, everything seemed to indicate the Lady would avoid a fever. But they would have to wait to know for certain. Labor was still too much of a mystery, even though it was such a common part of life. Thankfully, today it seemed all had gone well.

Lady Anne was weary, but aside from the tiredness and discomfort, she looked to be in good health.

After seeing to the baby's comfort, and that she was whole and hale, the younger woman helping the midwife carried her to her mother. Anne forgot any tiredness she felt and eagerly extended her arms. After so many hours of labor she was finally able to meet her daughter. When she finally had her in her arms, feeling her warmth, everything was as it should be. All was bliss. She was complete.

The new father —no matter he had been one for years to other two children— could not take his eyes off of Anne and his daughter. And it appeared the little one did not take hers away from either of them.

"Her name will be Georgiana." Anne said as she held her daughter in her arms.

"I want to name her after you my love."

After hearing her say this, the man did not breathe a word. The only thing he was able to do, was to look into his Anne's eyes with clear reverence. His endless devotion for this woman was then clear in his eyes. He kissed her softly, vehemently. All his feelings for her were encased within that kiss. Words were not enough for him to express what was in his heart right then.

And so it was, that Lady Georgiana Aurora Sophia Darcy at last came into this world with the dawn of the first day of July in the year of our Lord, 1795. Welcoming their daughter was the ideal way to welcome the new day, and to begin this new adventure.

~oOo~

It was still early in the day, but the sun had already begun its ascent, and had already left its hiding place behind the horizon. The sun shone brightly over the golden window grilles, and rays flooded the rooms in the East wing of Pemberley in morning light and warmth. The day was young, and only the trees closest to the gardens at the back of the house were bathed in the light. In a few hours time, the light would reach the trees on the hill all the way to the summit.

The trees already under Apollo's favor seemed almost golden under the sun's rays, as did the eastern façade overlooking the hill, so did the river's surface on the opposite side. One had but to look outside a window to see the glow reflected upon the leaves and their lively Chartreuse greens. Their still fresh hues contributed to the golden effect. Usually at this time of year they were expected to be closer to a dark emerald green, as was usual for Summer. But the lower temperatures during last Spring had delayed that progress.

~oOo~

Serendipity would have it, the little girl's middle name was Aurora, And it was indeed the light of Dawn that enveloped them now. An apt description for the scene on display outside, as the light of the new dawn touched nature on its way up.

Inside, the new parents, had been through uncertain hours, but heir child was finally with them. They could hold her now. She had been real all along, but being able to hold her, made the experience feel much more real. After the birth of their son they thought they would never experience this again.

~oOo~

It seemed little Georgiana had brought a bounty of brightness and warmth with her.

The hours had been arduous for the little one as well. She had had much to do.

The task of being born was an incredibly difficult one for her as well, none thought to give her credit for this. Forsaking the warm, dark protection that surrounded the little one, and exchanging it for air —as we all must learn to do— and learn to breathe upon our entrance into this world, must have been difficult. If only one could remember such things. Perhaps they remain deep in our memories, but we rarely get the chance to relive them.

~oOo~

George Darcy wiped his wife's brow lovingly.

He was in awe of her. He was in awe of all women, for that matter.

'How do they do this? '

He knew not —seeing what he had seen throughout the hours since he had taken that step inside the door— how men could feel themselves superior to the 'fairer' sex? Indeed, women were fair, and strong, and brave, and giving. For nothing less could account for a miracle such as the one he had been witness to.

His regard and respect for his wife had grown with this experience. It changed him like nothing else could have done.

He could now understand why most men were not granted access to birthing rooms. He had little doubt most men in his acquaintance lacked the forbearance required in such cases. He did not know how he himself had managed it. Mayhap the difference rested in marriages which had been lucky to be love matches, or ones that had evolved to be such. Mayhap he was ahead of his time?

Anne's perspiration soaked through to his clothes, he had only just realized. His Lady lay resting her body on him, leaning her back over his chest. Holding their treasure in her arms. He looked at them in wonder. He was grateful for them.

"Look at her eyes, my love, Fitzwilliam's were just like hers are now. Maybe they will not change much and remain this blue."

However, their boy's eyes had indeed changed after his first year, now they were an unusual shade of blue. Rather than compare it to Blue Sapphire, they looked like a deep, vibrant shade of Lapis Lazuli, with their small specks of gold and silver. It was possible baby Georgiana's might be the same, though it did not signify. She was beautiful as she was.

Anne's fingers slowly ran over every little part in her Gigi's small body. Counting fingers, feeling the softness of her cheeks, running over her button of a nose. Feeling the soft, barely grown blonde hair on her little head.

Her husband looked at her, "She is perfect, is she not?" His finger was trapped in her little hand.

"Yes. She is absolutely perfect."

~oOo~

He had ended behind her at some point. It seemed to help her. Other times he had held her hand while she walked, other times he rubbed her lower back. It certainly had been an experience, to be his wife's nurse. This made him even more aware of her somehow.

Her breathing had for the last minutes recovered a more regular rhythm, but he felt her discomfort. Surely she had to feel sore. He supposed it was a heavy task, bringing a babe into this world.

'Undoubtedly. How could it be otherwise?'

"I shall let you rest, my love" said George Darcy in a whisper.

His Anne only nodded.

While he removed himself from behind his wife. Mrs. Aberdeen held her arms out to signal them to give her the little babe to carry. The older woman was happy to take hold of the sleeping little bundle. Georgiana was the second Darcy child she had helped come into the world. The woman who taught her had told her about all their losses. She realized how precious these children were to their parents, and the reason why.

"Your Lordship, while we see to the Lady's comfort, might you wish to clean up? And then introduce the little Lady to her family?" Said the Housekeeper while the other woman held little Georgiana.

Suddenly he realized, looking down at himself. Yes, it was a sound suggestion.

He looked to his Anne, to confirm such plans. She had fallen asleep, however.

"You have the right of it Mrs. Reynolds. I will do as you suggest." He turned around then in the direction of his chambers. His valet helped him accomplish this in a shorter time than he expected to take. Soon he was back, to claim his daughter and take her to meet her brother.

~oOo~

The two women looked approvingly at the man. He did help them. He had not made himself a nuisance. What's more, they appreciated his devoted help with their Lady. She needed him, and he had been there in her time of need.

"Here she is my Lord" They taught him how to hold her. He immediately remembered the times he had held his boy like this, and was soon reacquainted with the task.

"Careful with her head, my Lord."

With a smile directed at both women he acquiesced.

He took his daughter in his arms then, when Mrs. Aberdeen gave her to him.

He walked slowly in the direction of the private sitting room. Where, upon his entrance, many a female voice exclaimed in joy and cheer. One, or a few of them may or may not have tried to counsel him in various aspects. But mainly, he was inundated by compliments and congratulations.

When George stepped out of the Mistress' rooms, everyone looked up from where they were sitting, from whom they were talking to. All conversations ceased, and they moved aside to let the youngest among their number see who had stepped into the room.

Young Master Fitzwilliam was accompanied by his cousin Richard, by cousin Josephine –who was only a few months older than himself— and Miss Trueba. He stood up from where he sat with both the young woman and his cousin Jo. And expectantly looked up to see his father walk in his direction. He was able to also see the bundle he carried.

He ran to them.

"May I go see her? May I see mama?"

"Your mama, she needs to rest for a little while my boy. Mrs. Reynolds will tell you when you can come again and visit with her." He listened attentively to what his papa told him, then added,

"Is that my baby sister, papa?

"Yes she is. Would you like to meet her?"

The boy only nodded enthusiastically.

"Will you sit down son, that way you can hold her safely? Is that agreeable to you?"

For a few moments, young Fitzwilliam looked scared, then thought better of it, and then a big smile illuminated his face. Doing as he was bid, he nodded. He went back to where he had been sitting and waited, extending his arms adorably. He did not see it, but all present could do naught but smile as well.

George Darcy leaned down and deposited the bundle in the child's arms, making certain he held her securely. Once the baby girl rested in her brother's arms, he kneeled in front of them to be able to hold both his children.

He need not have worried.

Fitzwilliam's eyes were fixed on the little girl.

"Her name is Georgiana. Dear daughter, meet your brother."

"I am happy to meet you little sister. I am your brother Fitzwilliam. Mama said we are to be the best of friends, and I would like nothing better! I promise you that I will love you and care for you always!" The boy promised earnestly.

The little one chose that time to open her eyes. There was afterward, much debate about whether the look she bestowed on her brother was her first smile or not. Many of them chose to believe so. Especially their father.

~oOo~

Earlier, the news had flown all over Pemberley, and in a few moments everyone within the house heard about the happy event and were celebrating.

Fitzwilliam, cousin Richard, and little Wickham had been with cousin Josephine in the nursery. Miss Trueba had attempted to keep them occupied —however useless the endeavor was that day— when the news reached them.

During the hubbub, Josephine left quickly to look for her mother. She should –in her mind— be with the women, but was sent out of the room the women were in. Uncle William and Uncle Lewis welcomed her with open arms.

Young Master Fitzwilliam asked Miss Trueba to be taken to his mamma's quarters, wanting to see her, and if possible, the new baby. He hoped he may be allowed to see for himself she was well.

He wished at the very least, to see the little sister he was told he now had, which made him quite happy. He had hoped for a sister. He loved his cousin Richard, and his cousin Charles too, Richard's older brother. George too was a good friend. But his curiosity over having a sister, had convinced him that it may be an infinitely better option.

Earlier that day, he had been scared for his Mamma. He had been in her rooms to visit her the day before and she had seemed alright. This morning though, he had seen so many people running to her room, and they would not let him go see her. Now he would be able to do so.

~oOo~

A fortnight passed. It was mid July.

Anne was much improved. Yet her strength was not what it had been. George Darcy assumed it was still too soon for her health to be on the mend completely. After all, it was only a short while since their daughter's birth. It had taken her some time to recover from Fitzwilliam's, now he supposed it may take a similar time to gain her strength again.

Among some of the things Lady Anne did not agree with, nor liked, was the fact she had to wait for a month until she received her 'blessing' and was 'churched.' as was the norm. Such wait may not have mattered much to her, if not for what this cost her.

"Am I not allowed to be present? My own daughter's Baptism!" She demanded rather than asked. But ended up in tears anyway.

George remained silent, but embraced her with alacrity. Years of experience had taught him well. Besides, his Anne had been especially sensitive lately. Far be it from him to cause his wife any more distress. Nor was his wish to cause her temper to rise, something that happened frequently as of late.

She recovered soon enough though.

"It is all nonsense..." At least in her eyes it was.

"I agree, my love. Yet we cannot change such long held traditions."

"One day, George, it may not be so anymore."

She did her best not to say so in company, and kept her thoughts to herself. Only her husband was privy to her saying so. But it rankled not being able to be there. It had been the same, years ago, when their Fitzwilliam was born.

Those other times, there were different reasons to be sad or upset.

~oOo~

According to custom, only three months were required for mourning after John had left them. Well, this applied to his brother and sister–in–law.

It had been five months, their sister Margaret –the Dowager Countess— still had one month left of full mourning. She had come to help them. and would be present at church for the Baptism, but she had decided to remain in doors during the celebrations.

They missed their brother, wished he were still with them.

If that were possible, so many things would be different. George Darcy was a responsible man. He possessed a strong sense of duty. Still, sometimes he wished some of those burdens were not his to bear. And yet, fate had interveened.

It had been five months. Oh, how fast time passed.

"I know my dearest John would be happy for you, brother. My Elijah too. We must go on, and make them proud of us."

She sighed, then looked at little Georgiana,

"They would have loved their niece and cousin."

~oOo~

Anne was the one to choose Georgiana's godparents. If she was not permitted to be by her daughter on such a day, Lady Anne Darcy was determined to have her say, in this way at least. She chose two godmothers and one godfather.

She cared for all her sisters deeply. She cared for Catherine, even with her demanding ways and condescending address. But the sisters she had through her marriage, and that of her brother's, had her unending trust and love too. In many ways, she felt a lot closer to Margaret and Charlotte, and that was the reason she thought these women were the best choice to be her Gigi's Godmothers. Her brother too, would make a most excellent godfather.

After the ceremony at church, there was a celebration at Pemberley. Everyone they knew —and did not know— from both towns of Lambton and Kimpton were present, Pemberley's tenants were present also, the neighboring Gentry was invited, and also a few Peers of the Realm.

~oOo~

Their closest neighbors were the residents of Chatsworth.

Both Pemberley and Chatsworth were incredibly similar in style, both built around the same time and in such proximity. The two great houses were situated East of the river Derwent. Except for the design in some of the surrounding gardens, one could imagine the two Houses were one and the same!

The gardens at Pemberley had a marked difference with the current trends. They were almost untouched by the hand of man, except where absolutely needed. There, nature won out over excessive design. The hand of nature surely knew better than the hand of man.

Precisely at that moment, the inhabitants of Chatsworth had just arrived, and were being announced.

"Their Graces, William Cavendish and Georgiana Cavendish, Duke and Duchess of Devonshire."

All present curtsied and bowed respectively. Her Grace, Georgiana Cavendish looked radiant, as she always did. His Grace, on the other hand... It was clear William Cavendish did not take much care of himself, especially as he was still somewhat young. Surely six and fourty fit that description?

Right after they arrived there was one more person being announced. One other guest had arrived with their Graces. And of course, it was inevitable that the Lady came along with the pair. How many years were they together? Was it three and ten? So many years already?

'Unbelievable! He may be a Duke, but to take his mistress everywhere he goes? Such conceit! It is shameful! And then he has the gall to treat my dearest friend so poorly! Gee may consider Lady Foster a friend, but no real friend would behave thusly...'

"Lady Elizabeth Foster."

'No wonder Gee sought refuge in Charles Grey.' She thought, looking at 'His Grace,' trying for the sake of her friend, to hide her contempt for the man —if he even deserved the appellation to begin with. The liaison between her friend and Grey was badly done. And yet, she understood the reason for it, even when she did not condone it.

'For a time at least... Gee has known happiness.' She imagined being in a similar position. 'What would I do if I was treated similarly... No, my George would not behave so dishonorably..."

She remembered there had been a short time, before their son was born when he had distanced himself from her. No, it was not possible. 'It is not in his character to behave in such a way.'

"Welcome to Pemberley Your Graces." There was an awkward pause, "Lady Foster."

"Thank you for your invitation, Lady Holderness." Bess Foster said as she curtsied.

Anne inclined her head in the barest of curtsies. What else was she supposed to do? If it were not for the precedence in rank, she might have been tempted to give His Grace a piece of her mind.

Their guests' children had remained home a few miles North. Her Grace's three eldest, and Lady Foster's with the Duke as well.

Georgiana's two young Ladies were affectionately called Little G and Harri–O by their mother. Little G was the eldest and Harri–O was the middle child, they were a year older and a year younger than Fitzwilliam respectively. In six years Little G would become Lady Morpeth, and later Countess of Carlisle. Harriet would take longer to marry, becoming Lady Leveson Gower, Countess Granville.

And young William, the Marquess of Hartington, the heir to the Cavendish legacy. He would never marry. It was anyone's best guess as to the reason. It was not his hearing impediment, clearly, when anything else in his life was not affected by it. Nonetheless he would become a good man. He was an advocate for Catholic emancipation, worked toward reducing working hours in factories, and supported the abolition of slavery.

Lady Anne had a soft spot in her heart for the three of them.

"Oh, Gee! Why did you not bring the children?"

"I thought best to leave them at home, Little G is coming out of a cold, and her sister did not wish to part from her. I will bring them to visit soon, do not fret. Perhaps you can visit us at Chatsworth?"

Her Grace was specially happy to be visiting. She and Anne Darcy had been friends and confidants for many years, Lady Anne was a loyal friend, and was easily loved by many. Her Grace had needed someone to trust, and so their bond was formed. This happened around the time she found out her friend Bess had been the third in her marriage.

At this time though, she was quite eager to meet her namesake.

The women visited for a few moments, acquainting themselves with their latest news. But after a while, more serious topics took their attention.

"Oh, my darling Anne! She is perfect!" The Duchess exclaimed upon seeing baby Gigi. "No doubt she will grow to be as beautiful as her Mamma. If only my girls were closer in age to her, hopefully they can be friends in the future."

"Are you feeding this darling as you did with your little Fitzwilliam?" The change in topic was a little abrupt, but it did not signify.

"Yes, Gee. Though it seems there is not enough milk to do it all by myself. A wet nurse is helping me this time. You were right when you suggested I do this myself back then."

"You surprised me at first, when I learned you were feeding your boy. I did so for my girls. Little 'Hart' had to be raised differently than what I would have liked. Then again your dear husband is so different from him." Anne rarely had deep negative feelings toward anyone. But whenever she heard her friend mention his Grace, she confirmed her dislike further.

Conversation flowed. At some point Lady Anne decided to ask,

"Gee, I am not sure if I should ask... Are you ever able to visit your Eliza?"

"I am, my dear friend. I can, if I do so discretely. Grey's family... well, they are... they provide for her, if nothing else." A deep sigh made it clear she was not quite convinced about her daughter's felicity.

"With his Grace so involved in politics, it is difficult to avoid seeing Eliza's father. It still hurts to see him, especially since his marriage last year." A few tears escaped Her Grace's eyes, but were wiped away before they reached her cheeks.

There was a long silence as she gathered her wits about her. Anne waited patiently.

"She is three now. She has grown into such a beautiful little girl!" Her eyes suddenly became clouded, so incredibly sad. Doubt seemed to fill her, but at length she found the courage to speak, "There was another babe, she did not survive. I could only see her but a moment. .."

"You never spoke about this before!" Anne was greatly surprised, and embraced her friend.

"I named her Céline... If she had lived..."

After recovering somewhat, both endeavored to change the topic to something more cheerful. The rest of their visit went as well as any two dear friends' can get.

~oOo~

Others with country seats in Derbyshire were able to visit. Among them was Sir Harpur–Crewe, from Calke Abbey. The family was known for their eccentricity, but they were good friends and good people. This time only Sir Harpur had come along.

Other friends were coming to Pemberley from different areas all around Derbyshire. There was the Nelson family from Catton Hall, in Walton-on-Trent. The Curzon family coming from Kedleston Hall. And the Arkwright family, their friends from Sutton Scarsdale Hall.

They had a few friends visiting from Ashbourne. There were the Hurts of Castern Hall, who were presently residing there, not renting it to someone else, as they often did. The Fitzherberts came from Tissington Hall in the Peak District. The Vernons, from Sudbury Hall were also present.

Some of their guests were part of the Peerage. There was Lord Lamb, 1st Viscount Melbourne, who was married to one of Anne's friends, Elizabeth Lamb, formerly Milbanke, who lived in Melbourne Hall. The property had once belonged to Elizabeth's family. There was also the Duke of Rutland and his family –he Manners— from Haddon Hall. A happy coincidence that they were able to come, since their usual residence was in Leicestershire, in Belvoir Castle, wich was much farther South.

Such good friends. This gathering had turned out much bigger than they had expected. They were happy for having all of them in attendance.

~oOo~

Anne was holding their precious baby Gigi in her arms, though a bassinet was placed close to her, so she did not have to. Of course she would always choose to carry her, if she was at all able. She sat there, surrounded by friends and family, observing her husband from a picnic tent a little distance from where he was standing and several of their guests sought to talk to him.

" It is so good of you to have come..."

"Thank you..."

"I am glad all in your family are in good health..."

"Of course you will..."

"If you need assistance with any of it..."

"Harvest time is always..."

"May it possibly be closer to Michaelmas?"

"Yes, I will make sure of it..."

When he found a pause, he took advantage of it, and walked in her direction. Seeing this, her companions left her to go elsewhere. When he reached her, he found her staring at him in fascination. More than that, there was a glint in her eyes that told him she had been having a little too much fun at his expense.

"What exactly do you mean wearing that grin?" He asked, wearing a similar one.

"Oh, not a thing." But her smile carried such mischief, he doubted it was so.

"Nevermind, I have my ways Madam. You will confess by the end of the day"

"Are you certain, my Lord?"

He shook his head, then looked upwards in a slight eye movement. Returning her smile, and kissing their daughter's head, he proceeded to take her in his arms, kiss her tiny forehead once more, and place her in the bassinet. As soon as this was accomplished, he took his Anne by the arms and next she knew, he was kissing her with an enthusiasm not quite proper in company. He did not seem to care.

"Where is Fitzwilliam?"

"What? You kiss me in such a way and then ask that?" You better be prepared George. I too have an idea or two that will leave you speechless, you will see'

He grinned.

"I don't know exactly. Last I saw him, he was playing with that lively little boy he met when we were north in Yorkshire. The boy's father and his family come from Scarborough, do they not?" Her answer was innocent enough. But her smile, and the distinct shine in her eyes told him differently.

After such pronouncement, he turned to see if the boys were near. He saw them running close enough, and Richard was with them

"Ah, Good. He will be a good friend, I am sure."

'I know you are planning something my dear'

When his sight moved elsewhere after though, he found a pair walking toward them. He could not suppress a wince. The pair luckily did not see him do so when they approached them.

"Your Grace, Lady Foster" Anne gave them a dignified curtsy. "Are you finding everything to your liking? Have you tried the Syllabub, or the Ratafia cakes? I know you are both fond of sweets. Perhaps you might want to try some mulled wine?"

Lady Anne rarely took the time to address His Grace's dear friend. She only offered the bare minimum show of civility, so when he saw the smile on her face, it could not but scare him a little. There was a dangerous edge in her voice. He knew that tone. There had been times when she unleashed that tone on him, and it was not good.

George then looked at his wife, curious as to her reasons for such. But when Anne took the Lady to the side to talk to her privately, he was astounded. He was left very little time to guess as his Grace led him in the opposite direction and began talking about politics. No matter. He was sure to find out later.

~oOo~

It was interesting how the Darcys were known, appreciated, and respected in Derbyshire.

No matter their station, this celebration included humble families among their guests. Many families within a day's carriage ride were invited, and Inns were rented by the Darcies, so all would have a place to stay and their meals taken care of.

Friends from other counties who were able to make travel arrangements, also came. There were some coming from Yorkshire. Since that county housed the seats of both Holderness and Fitzwilliam Earldoms.

In the previous months, the Earl and Countess had had to spend some time up in the North. It was during this time that his Lordship had met a man from Scarborough, and struck up a friendship with him. He was a Tradesman of name Bingley.

He was from what was known as a 'nouveau riche' family. He had an amazing level of charisma. Thankfully, it was a feature used in such a compassionate and sympathetic manner, he easily gained friendship and loyalty alike. His acumen for business related ventures was a thing of legend among those who knew him. He was a well respected man.

Through the winter, while they acquainted themselves, their boys did as well. Even when Bingley's boy was a few years younger than Fitzwilliam, he and Charles, that was his name, found the way to get along. Who knew then, that this friendship went on for many years to come, as many as both of them would live.

~oOo~

That night his Lady told him about her conversation with Lady Foster. The latter had gone with her Grace to France. Anne had wanted to know more about it without importuning her friend with questions that made her sad. So she had no option but to turn to Gee's friend to learn more.

"That trip was shrouded in secrecy. I knew about little Eliza, but it was only until now that Gee told me anything about this other babe."

How could Cavendish behave with such cruelty, and toward his wife of all people. Separating a mother from her child. All for the sake of keeping appearances.

"If he wanted to keep appearances it might make sense, but he is so open about his liaison with Lady Foster. I suppose it is a completely different matter when he is the one being a cuckold. His pride was at stake." Anne spoke with a hint of sardonic wit in her tone.

A quote from the Bible invaded his mind with a vengeance. Such musings distracted him, so he did not hear what Anne had said.

"Are you alright my love?"

"Mh? Yes, yes... I am well, my sweet."

She fell asleep soon after. He however, stayed awake at least for another hour.

'He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.'

~oOo~

The hubbub lessened when most of the guests from Georgiana's Christening left. And after such, the tranquility surrounding them was a welcome change to all present. It was a good thing to spend time with friends, but some quiet time without them was as well.

It was only their closest family that stayed for a while longer after most of the guests had left. Anne's brother, the Earl Fitzwilliam and his family stayed for another fortnight. So did George's sister in law, Margaret and her family. Including young Viscount Alcott and his Amelia.

Young Richard stayed on for another two months, after his parents, brother and sister went back to Wentworth Woodhouse, and aunt Margaret left for Parnassus with her daughters and son in law. It was only him, along with little Charles, who stayed with the Darcy family at Pemberley. Both boys remained at Fitzwilliam's request. Both cousins became fast friends with Bingley's boy.

The Tradesman from Scarborough had decided to let the boy stay until the end of September. That was how Charlie Bingley was able to stay for the rest of the Summer, and celebrate Fitzwilliam's 11th birthday with him, and his other new friends.

His father went back to Scarborough, and left Charlie at Pemberley, taking his mother and two sisters —Caroline, who was almost two years older than himself, and Louisa, who was four years older. Charles stayed under the care of Lord Holderness, until his father picked him up at the beginning of Autumn.

When the children were left alone, they realized they had forgotten something indeed quite important.

"This is my cousin, Richard Fitzwilliam, and this is my friend, George Wickham." The boys all bowed as they were taught to do. But after realizing what he heard, the younger boy looked at his friend, feeling confused after the introduction.

"Ah. It is the name, is it not?" All laughed at this, "He is my mother's brother's son. I was named after her family. That is why my christian name and his family name are the same. I know... it can be bothersome..."

"Oh. That makes much more sense now... I think." Charlie laughed. "It is a little confusing!"

They had not been introduced before then, they simply kept playing without stopping since the first moment of their acquaintance.

There was such simplicity in this moment. No need for formalities. Even when two of them were sons of Earls and one of them had two Barony titles. Fitzwilliam intuitively knew not to make this apparent, as the boy's situation was quite different to his cousin's and his.

The friendship between the boys grew stronger every day. At the end of such prolonged visit, tears ensued –as it is naturally expected. Though neither of the boys wanted to let this show, it was a useless endeavor. At the end of the Summer, when it was time for fairwells, there were some blotchy faces that were 'wisely' ignored by the respective parents, so as to give their children the chance to keep their burgeoning dignity.

~oOo~

Young George began to distance himself a little that Summer —nothing very noticeable, by any means, but it was there.

It started after he was chastised by his father, Wickham senior, for letting little Charlie take the blame due to a prank where he was the responsible one. Of course that never happened, as Fitzwilliam took the fault onto himself. That was the beginning of a cycle that took many years, and even more tears, and hard lessons to finally break.

It was during the next year, when both Fitzwilliam, and George Wickham started Eton, that the gap began widening a bit more noticeably, and they began to look outside their small circle, and find different interests. They remained friends for some years, but the gap between them grew ever wider and wider with the passing of time.

His Lordship persuaded his Steward he did not need to pay for the boy's education, as he insisted to take care of that himself. He wanted to give his godson an opportunity to improve his life. An opportunity that otherwise he would not get.

~oOo~

That Summer in 1795, before school had claim on any of them, the four boys: Charlie, George, Fitzwilliam, and Richard, were all together a force of nature. A foursome to be reckoned with. Usually, it was Richard, and sometimes Charlie, who were the instigators of mischief. The more innocent kind of mischief that is, if such a thing even exists.

Starting thatAutumn, Richard had to leave for school. To Eton, next year it would be Fitzwilliam's turn to go as well. Lady Anne's brother came back to pick his son up and take him thither. Lady Charlotte did not, for she did not have the heart to part from her boy again and for such a long period of time. She chose to stay home with her little Isabella.

"It may not be all so bad, think of it as an adventure Fitz. I promise to write to you from school."

The younger cousin winced and said:

"I will write back as well. But Richard..." He hesitated, "I have one thing to ask, if I am to keep this promise, please do not call me Fitz, you know I do not like it"

"Alright cuz, I will try."

"Fss, Fiss, Fuss..." Georgiana repeated, from her perch in her mother's arms.

"No! Gigi... Not you!"

"Fss, Fsss..."

"Alright then, but only you may call me Fitz..."

"Faaws!"

The cousins parted ways.

The following year, when he turned two and ten, the Right Honorable, Lord Fitzwilliam Darcy, Baron Darcy and Conyers, started school at Eton, one year behind his cousin. Even if he was only a boy, it was the right way to address him. He had better find a way to get used to be addressed by the titles he inherited from his cousin Elijah. Most likely, some of his future classmates were in a similar situation. Whether they were comfortable with it, he was yet to find out.

~oOo~

Fitzwilliam had grown in self confidence lately. Having friends around him helped quite a bit in that regard. That first year, as the time he spent with his new friend –together with Richard and George— was becoming shorter, the boy presented his father with a request.

"Father... Sir..." He stopped, hesitant for a little while, then continued, "May... Is it possible that Charles stay during next Summer?"

George Darcy felt so proud. His boy was finally growing out of his shell. So he of course endeavored to convince his friend and business partner, Mr. Bingley to let his son stay with his family during next Summer. It did not take too much convincing though.

The man looked over at his son and raised a brow.

"Please Father. May I stay next Summer?"

A complicit look from both fathers followed their children's question, as to make it easy to imagine the result. And so, young Bingley became a regular guest of the family.

The next few years, Fitzwilliam and Charlie kept corresponding when they were apart. It started to become more frequent the closer the first was to attend University. They went to different schools, Eton and Harrow respectively. Both young men attended Cambridge together. However, it was only during Fitzwilliam's last year, as Charles was just beginning.

Through their abundant correspondence during previous years though, Fitzwilliam learned a most valuable lesson in patience and perseverance.

'Goodness... Charles! Do I have to decipher, rather than simply read your letters?'

One would think the need for such arduous work might diminish with time and practice. Regrettably, that was not the case with dear Charles. His penmanship remained as illegible as it ever was.

~oOo~

The first year of Georgiana's life was blissful.

The Darcy family enjoyed many months of peace and prosperity. The four of them spent as much time together as was possible, when lessons for her brother, and the duties of Master or Mistress for her papa and mamma permited. And they all made a point to make the time for her. They loved her, and spending time together was the best way to show it.

Of course baby Gigi was the only one truly at leisure. She simply enjoyed her time with her three favorite people. The times she did not, her nurse took care of her. But more often than not, if Fitz and her papa were not with her, her mamma surely was. Lady Anne made sure to have smaller cribs or Bassinets in every room where she spent her time, so her Gigi was with her. And when they went outside, as Anne believed fresh air was good for babies, she had a perambulator for those occasions.

Occupied in such pursuits, the little Lady grew prettier everyday. Her eyes indeed stayed blue, though they took the hue of a clear and cloudless Spring sky, rather than the darker Lapis Lazuli color they had thought it would turn into, like her brother's. Her hair grew blonde. Just like her mother's, and just as wavy.

And when she started to walk. Let's just say, many fun stories originated there.

"Yes, Gigi! You can do it! One more! One more!" He extended his arms toward the little toddler.

Her wobbly legs carried her for a great number of three steps before she reached him.

Suddenly, and without noticing, both children were surrounded by their parents and every member of staff that happened to be walking by the nursery. Good Peters, the footman who was standing outside that very room was very much appreciated by his Master and Mistress for informing them as soon as he did.

For a few minutes after, Little Georgiana Darcy regaled them with the fourth to seventh steps of her young life.

By nature, she was caring and loving. As soon as she learned to walk, she wobbled her way into anyone who would hold her. Whether the reason was clear or not, it was up to interpretation.

"I told you! I am Gigi's favorite person. She only wanted to make it clear."

"My boy. I am her dear papa. She was coming to me..."

"Ahem!"

They both looked in the direction from where the cough came.

Baby Gigi stretched her arms in the direction of her mother when she saw her.

"I am sorry to disappoint both of you, my loves,"

"You!?" Both father and son exclaimed.

"I am her mother after all..."

Neither father nor son were impressed.

She simply laughed. Then moved to hold Georgiana in her arms.

The little girl had been sitting on a blanket as she usually did.

Then the three of them heard it...

"Mamma!"

~oOo~

Growing up, the little girl was a keen one for sweets of any kind. When it had been some time after she started eating solid foods, she was allowed one little piece. It was but the beginning. Later on, young Georgiana had to contend with a little problem, luckily it was never more than a stone past a healthy weight. And it only lasted a little past her three and ten years.

Her brother adored her. He played with her, cared for her. He was grown enough, and secure enough in his parent's love, that he understood —a generous portion of the time anyway— why she sometimes received so much of their parents attention. In hindsight, later he understood how lucky it was for her to have had the time she had with her parents.

Even such happy times were bound to find one or two incidents that broke the routine. But other than smaller issues, that second half of 1795 and the first half of the next, flew by in a mist of joyful bliss.

~oOo~

Her first birthday, they celebrated only with their family.

There was a happy addition to the usual gathering, as George's younger brother, the Honorable Thomas Darcy, came home from his constant travels and gypsy-like life, for a time at least, until his wanderlust took him away again, God only knew where. There was none more thankful for this lull than his older brother. He could rest easy, at least for a while, until Thomas invariably spread his wings again.

This time he came home with stories about spices, red wedding gowns, blue skinned gods, beautiful palaces that were in fact tombs, and descriptions of incredibly hot weather, the likes of which were unknown in English shores.

~oOo~

Anne was hit the hardest when Fitzwilliam left for school. Though she knew her boy was growing up, and turning into a wonderful young man, it was still hard on her. She missed him terribly. If not for her little Georgiana, things may have been immeasurably more difficult.

Her daughter was a blessing. She knew however, that he needed to find a balance. She poured much of her love on her daughter. But spent much of her time writing letters, one can easily conclude to whom.

After a difficult discussion with her George, she did her best to spend more time in other pursuits, on her tasks as Mistress of Pemberley and as Countess Holderness. Which in the end healed her heart to a certain degree. What did most of the healing was the love she felt from her George. He saved her, but also fought to show her she had to save herself most of all.

The transition between having Fitzwilliam home continually, his going to school took her some time to adjust, but she did it admirably.

"I miss him George. I know he has to grow..." She hiccuped, as she always did when she cried. This conversation happened frequently enough.

"My Darling Anne... I know, I know..."

"...That I will not... not have he–him... always here wi with me e..."

Big sorrowful tears fell from her eyes. He held her tight. It was a difficult lesson for them. But such was life. All children must grow up.

~oOo~

Since beginning school in 1796, Fitzwilliam always came back home every Summer. He had done so for the last three years. At the end of this visit, in the year 1799, he was turning five and ten.

"Why is your son here, Holderness? Is he not spending time at some of his classmates' homes during this time? The lad needs to make connections. It is his duty, after all."

"Why would I send my son away, Melbourne?" Said one friend to another. Lord Melbourne had come for a short stay regarding the purchase of some horses, a venture Holderness had begun around the time Georgiana was born.

"It is the done thing, is it not?" Faltered the man, surprised by his friend's vehemence. As if such an idea as having his son stay elsewhere was alien to him.

"Just because it is the done thing, it does not mean it is the right thing to do, my friend. It is good that boys learn to be on their own. But they are young still. Being home for a time will make them appreciate every side of their lives."

"You may be right." He replied with a sigh, "My wife did try to tell me the same. It is ingrained, you know, the way we act."

~oOo~

It was after all a good thing that the family spent this particular Summer together. As usual Richard and Charlie were with Fitzwilliam. The three of them had become such close friends, it was unthinkable they not be there.

Georgiana turned four that July. They had all their extended family come visit. And none of them failed to attend. With all of them together, it was a time for joy. A few months after, Fitzwilliam turned five an ten. Again, their family had all come to celebrate the occasion. Some of them had chosen to stay. After all there was only little more than two months between both occasions.

~oOo~

And as happy moments do, they come and go. Tears must also be part of life.

Due to a sudden illness none could understand, Lady Anne Darcy, beloved wife to George, loving mother to Fitzwilliam and Georgiana, cherished friend and sister to so many, left this world to her eternal reward, on a clear October morning.

It was sad. Infinitely so.

But her smile, her love, her spirit and memory would always remain with them.

Initially I didn't want to write an A.N. after this chapter. But as you've probably noticed, I have a tendency to edit a bit here and there. Mostly fixing up narrative issues. But sometimes ideas for the plot hit me decidedly after. WAY after.

Now... The last tweaks in this chapter came up because of a comment. A lovely comment! It got me to thinking. I added a few hints, they're there just in case I make up my mind and run with the idea. If not, well, they can easily be ignored. The changes here and in chapter one (they are related) may result in BIG TIME surprises! Just remember guys... I labeled this as Drama after all...