Anne sat quietly watching the people in the street pass by cheerfully from her elevated seat within the barouche. The late afternoon weather was splendid, allowing the soft top of the carriage to be folded down, leaving the occupants open to the warm spring sunshine. The carriage was currently sat outside Mr Hurst's residence at the opposite end of Grosvenor Street, while Mr Darcy aided Mrs Hurst and Miss Bingley into the seats opposite Anne and Georgiana. Anne smiled in welcome to the sisters. Miss Bingley, without much attempt at civility, nodded towards Anne before turning her body at such an angle in order to focus all her attention towards Georgiana. Anne had decided to not let the woman's behaviour spoil her mood; and sat back in her seat, preparing herself for Mrs Hurst's nonstop chatter. Mr Hurst, Mr Bingley and Darcy all set off together; quite separately from the ladies.
With the Hurst's living at the opposite end of Grosvenor Street to the Darcy residence, this meant Anne had been dealt the not so relished pleasure of Mrs Hurst's company as a guaranteed daily occurrence. She paid a morning call every day, even twice last Thursday; for the weather had been especially poor and the distance being not far, had seemed ideal. Anne continued to smile and nod when she felt it best, as Louisa continued to talk on matters that really required no answer. Caroline spoke, her voice as sickly sweet as treacle, to Georgiana only; somehow managing to both compliment and curb the poor young girl with a single remark.
At least, thought Anne, as she nodded in agreement with Mrs Hurst, the carriage ride would be over in a moment, for the Royal Academy was so close, but a few streets south. It almost seemed foolish not to simply walk on such a lovely afternoon. In truth, although her incessant talking was tiresome, Anne did not have any grievances towards Louisa. At least she conversed happily with Anne, the same could not be said for Miss Bingley. It was apparent to Anne that Miss Bingley clearly had designs on Fitzwilliam. The woman could not be more transparent. Anne almost pitied her, for she was quite certain the feelings were in no way returned. Anne was quite certain Miss Bingley disliked her for her closeness to her cousin, perhaps she also knew of their intended family obligations. Anne had no intention of offering the girl any assurances on that part. Perhaps Anne was being cruel, but she secretly quite enjoyed knowing she was for once the object of jealousy. Although Miss Bingley was overly confident in all she did, arrogant and in many ways self-righteous; she was after all, on closer inspection simply a rather spoilt, foolish girl of only 20. Her whole appearance and attitudes echoed of someone much older, however she was still only a young thing. A rather selfish, sharp tongued young thing, thought Anne cruelly but, scolding herself for being so critical of Miss Bingley; Anne still felt the girl should be more careful. Her blatant play for Darcy's favour at every opportunity was rather embarrassingly too apparent, and on unchecked display. The girl was creating a reputation for herself as a most determined flirt, which was all her own doing. Perhaps thought Anne, in amends for her earlier cruel observations, she should have a quiet word with Louisa. Surely a sister should pay more attention to her younger sisters conduct. The Bingley's, rich through trade, were part of the nouveau Riche which were sweeping through London society. Prone to outlandish displays of wealth, the new money set often had a reputation for being rather vulgar in their opulence; no one cared for a show off. It was not the done thing within London society at all. On one hand, those with pedigree but no real financial assets and the newly rich could both offer advantageous solutions to each other shortfalls with a convenient marriage. 'New money' was still seen with great inferiority by many of the tons landed gentry. Caroline Bingley should take heed, thought Anne. Although the girl was in no way pleasant, Anne did not wish her any harm and did not want the girl exposed to anymore censure than she was already likely dealt due to her background.
Anne was most anxious to arrive at the Royal Academy. She had already visited once since her arrival. The season had opened with a new exhibition piece from J.M.W. Turner. The crowds upon the early season opening had been such a crush, Anne had barely had anytime to really examine the effect of the piece. She had barely a moment to appreciate the forbidding dark storm cloud as it rolled across the pale yellow sky; the folds and sweeps of the avalanche of snow as both forces descended with all their might onto the soldiers below. Anne was certain, now that the exhibition had been on six weeks, she would be able to enjoy the painting without the crowds and could look upon the work at great length. Descending from the carriage, Anne tucked her leather stationary roll and sketchbook firmly under her left arm, taking Darcy's offered arm on her right as they entered the gallery. Just as she had anticipated, with such fine weather, the crowds in attendance were greatly diminished.
After several short exchanges with people of their mutual acquaintance, and several not so short introductions by Mrs Hurst to those not already acquainted with Anne; the party finally arrived within the main exhibition gallery. Anne's breath hitched upon seeing the oil on canvas up close. The party all stood in front of the painting, admiring the Royal Academy's latest acquisition. Slowly, one by one, each member peeled away; either to look upon further works or converse with other visitors. Anne, oblivious to that around her, simply stood taking in every detail. She continued to stare at the power and expression in each brushstrokes of the sky and snow, the almost silhouette appearance of the tribes people. So entranced was she, she failed to notice Georgiana patiently waiting by her side. Not wishing to disturb her cousins concentration, Georgiana let her eye roam about the room. The Hurst's and Mr Bingley were in deep discussion with the Myers; but where was her brother? She continued to scan the room. There were several young ladies and companions being escorted, picture to picture, by over enthusiastic guides; several gentleman with such fine button holes and ornate walking canes, it was hard not to stare; a particularly tall, handsome fellow with hair as black as raven feathers and finally she spied her brother; corned by the force that was Caroline Bingley's admiration. Georgiana let out a sigh, poor Fitzwilliam, he was in no way a match for Caroline Bingley. Upon hearing Georgiana's sigh, Anne realised her sweet cousin was still standing next to her.
"Oh Georgie," Anne exclaimed. "I am sorry. I am being the most neglectful companion."
"Not at all," replied Georgiana hastily. "Please do not think I am growing impatient with you. Only look yonder," said Georgiana lifting her chin discretely in the direction of her brother, "he is caught in the clutches of Miss Bingley."
"Oh Georgie you are wicked," laughed Anne, giving her young cousin a gentle dig in the side. "That is most ungracious of you. Even if it is most observant." Both ladies continued to giggle in such a manner, that an elderly gentleman to their right, shook his head in severe disapproval. Anne bowing her head in apology, swallowed her laughter. In an attempt to hush Georgiana's giggles, Anne slowly lead them towards a small wooden bench. Once seated they each took out their respective sketchbooks. Anne was determined to try and create a small study focusing on Turner's use of light and dark contrast, which she could later then use as reference to try and recreate a water colour study of her own. Georgie, though not as studious in her application as Anne, was quite content to also draw. At least being in this way occupied, she would not be forced join in conversation by Louisa or Caroline.
Several minutes passed before Georgiana felt as though she were being observed. She tilted her head to the side, expecting to find her brother watching over her from afar, but it was not so. Staring from across the room, in what looked like deep contemplation, was the raven haired gentleman she had seen earlier. With dark eyes and square jaw, the tall gentleman was hard to ignore, he cut quite the figure. As Georgiana continued to stare, taking in his fine grey suit and deep burgundy pocket square, the most unexpected thing occurred. The gentleman began to walk in her direction! Georgiana felt her cheeks instantly grow warm, knowing full well her cheeks would be entirely scarlet by the time the gentleman reached her position on the bench. She turned her head and looking down, focused with great determination at the sketchbook page in front of her. Perhaps he would not come over if he thought her engaged in such an activity. Georgiana knew he was standing before her without needing to look up, she could feel his presence before he spoke:
"Well if I am not the most fortunate of men. It is a pleasure to see you again Miss de Bourgh, I was beginning to think I had imagined our meeting last sennight."
Anne sat bolt upright, knocking several piece of graphite to the floor. The small pieces of lead made a terrible loud crack as they hit the marble floor, she was sure everyone would be looking at her.
"Lord Colville," Anne exclaimed, glancing at Georgiana then back to Edward. "I must apologise, I meant to write a letter of thank you for the flowers, they were exquisite and in no way necessary, but I am afraid it slipped my mind."
"Alas I am so easily forgotten," Edward cried in mock upset, "my lady how you wound me. Though I shall not pretend to be above such things as praise, for you have ample opportunity to thank me for the flowers now. I am sure your eternal gratitude will be received with much greater pleasure from you in person, of this I am certain."
Georgiana sat in silence, her mouth open slightly as she watched the exchange between her cousin and the most dashing gentleman she had ever been witness to. Her earlier thought that she had captured his attention was quickly forgot, like so many young girls fancies. At such close proximity, Georgiana could tell that he was not as young as she had assumed from a distance. His dark hair was frosted with grey at the temples and his eyes and mouth displayed a variety of fine lines. Likely to be entirely the result from his smiling too much she was sure, for he had a lovely smile. As the two continued to exchange pleasantries, Georgie was aware her brother was now approaching their position, with Caroline and Mr Bingley in tow. She dropped her hand and gave Anne's side a gentle squeeze out of sight. Anne turned her head to look at Georgiana, noticing Darcy's approach. Immediately Anne stood up, facing Darcy as he reached her side.
"Lord Colville, may I introduce you to my cousin Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy, Darcy this is Lord Edward Colville, Viscount of Abernathy. He is a dear friend of my cousin Angus, we are well acquainted from my time in Elgin."
Both gentleman bowed low, looking the other up in down, evaluating the man displayed before them.
"Mr Darcy I do not think I have had the pleasure, I am however acquainted with your cousin Henry Fitzwilliam, for I have had the pleasure of exchanging and helping improve the stable stock at Matlock for sometime."
Anne breathed a sigh of relief as Edwards happy manners and easy skill at conversation began to work it's charm on her cousin. Anne knew how uncomfortable Darcy felt when meeting new people. It was one of his greatest flaws. He often gave the appearance of a man too proud, too arrogant to engage in something so beneath him as conversation with a stranger. In truth he was simply shy and perhaps the effect left him a little standoffish in company. Introductions were then made between Edward and the Bingley's, including Mr and Mrs Hurst. Suddenly Mr Hurst, in a manner Anne had never witnessed before in company, became quite animated and excited, praising Lord Colville on his excellent run at the 2000 Guinea's. He had apparently won handsomely on the bet he had placed upon Edwards young horse. The gentleman's conversation naturally then entirely turned to horses, discussing the approach of the Derby and a new racer with great odds; though Colville did not seem deterred by the new show in the slightest.
"And this is your Lord Colville, Anne you forgot to mention how striking his appearance when we sorted through his botanical offering," Georgiana teased quietly, linking arms with Anne. "He is frightfully handsome," the young girl all but whispered in awe.
"Oh hush," Anne whispered back. "And he is not my anything. We are but good friends Georgie."
Good friends indeed, thought Georgiana with some exasperation. Even she could tell by the subtle flush of Anne cheeks and the way in which the gentleman smiled in Anne's direction at every chance, as he conversed with the gentleman; there was the possibility of much more than friendship afoot. Growing tiresome of waiting in the shadows Miss Bingley cleared her throat in such an unsubtle manner, it resulted in all four gentleman turning their heads in her direction.
"Oh forgive me," she cooed, " but the air in here is so drying. I feel I shall faint if we do not take our leave and the comfort of the open air barouche before long." Just as she had intended her brother, apologising profusely for neglecting her so, introduced her to the Viscount. Caroline was no fool, she knew of Lord Colville by reputation alone. She made it her priority to know who was who and exactly who was worth knowing amongst the ton. The elusive Viscount was not one for social gatherings, well at least the ones in which Caroline had been admitted entry to.
With all the charm of a viper, Miss Bingley oohed and ahhed at Edwards every word, smiling up at him as he spoke with open civility to all present. She thought back to the interval at the theatre last sennight, with regards to the overly intimate meeting of the Viscount and Anne. What in heavens would a man such as he see in such a mouse like female as Miss Anne de Burgh? How foolish the gossip, for she herself had not seen the exchange, she had merely told everyone what had occurred from what others had told her. How foolish indeed, Caroline thought, dismissing any notion of his interest in Anne. How silly she had been to try and use his good name and character to lessen Anne in the eyes of Darcy. Oh Darcy, thought Caroline, taking in his handsome face, he was rich indeed; but if what she knew of Lord Colville to be true, he was just as affluent, and he outranked him with title.
"You really must come and dine with us this evening I insist," said Darcy, to Anne's astonishment. It was unlike her cousin to so quickly invite new acquaintances into the fold. Anne felt an odd feeling, almost akin to pride. She was pleased Edward had made such a positive impression on Darcy. She could not understand why, but she realised she deeply wanted Darcy to approve of Edward.
"Yes!" cried Mr Hurst, clearly inviting himself as one of the intended dinner party. "I shall not take no for an answer. We shall all dine this evening. I say, my Lordship are you fond of cards?"
Edward looked towards Anne in an attempt to gauge her reaction to his being invited to dine with her and her cousins in their home. She gave him a small smile of encouragement which made his heart beat faster within his chest.
"I am all astonishment at such an unexpected kind offer. I would be delighted to accept," replied Edward, shaking Darcy's outreached hand.
"Wonderful so that's settled," replied Darcy, "shall we head out to the carriage? "As Darcy turned to observe Anne's countenance, giving her a raised brow upon catching her eye; a flurry of motion and raised voices came from the hallway of the gallery.
"I must speak with Lord Colville," cried the voice of a young man. "It is a matter most urgent." A moment later a young studious gentleman came rushing into the gallery, spotting Edward, he scurried towards them.
"He is my clerk," Edward called to the concerned gallery curator and staff, who all seemed on edge due to the boys frantic behaviour. "Whatever is the matter Daniels"
"My Lord, there has been an incident, you are required at the House of Commons immediately. You must come with me now, make haste."
"Whatever the devil for man, can not it wait till the morrow?"
"My Lord, I am afraid something of the most alarming nature has occurred. There have been shots, I can not say more in present company."
Edward turned to Darcy. "I am afraid it would seem I can not attend your kind offer to dine with you all this evening. Please accept my apology."
"On the contrary man, do not let us detain you, we shall dine together another evening I am sure."
"My apologies all," Edward bowed to the rest of the group. Upon meeting Anne's gaze he said, "I shall look forward until we meet again."
Anne watched as Edward left, rushing from the room as his clerk whispered information he clearly thought inappropriate for their ears. She hoped there was nothing too serious the matter. She felt quite disappointed she would not be able to enjoy Edwards company further this evening.
The short carriage ride home was full of speculation from the sisters, suggesting one salacious scenario after another for the Viscounts sudden summon to the House of Commons. Between each suggestion, both ladies would offer and repeat several observations on the gentleman; including remarks upon his excellent manners, his stature, his charming turn of phrase and the elegant diamond and ruby cluster upon his cravat pin.
"I do believe Louisa," gushed Caroline as the carriage pulled into Grosvenor Street, "that Lord Colville and I meeting today was by no means fate. I have long since wished to make his acquaintance, did you happen to see the way he looked at me?"
"My dear Caro," replied Mrs Hurst as the carriage drew to a stop, "one could not help but notice his admiration!"
Lord help me, thought Anne as she descended from the barouche, she was not sure how much more of this ridiculous conversation she could withstand. Rolling her eyes at Georgiana she entered the house, and went directly to change for dinner; relishing in the happy thought that she would have at least an hour of peaceful solitude until the Hurst's and the Bingley's arrived to take supper.
Dinner was not as bad as Anne had imagined. Darcy's presence helped curb Caroline and Louisa's enthusiasm with regards to Lord Colville. It appeared Darcy may no longer be the soul recipient of Caroline's most devout attention. Anne did not care for the way Caroline spoke of Edward, like he was some possession to be acquired. However, she was not worried about Miss Bingley. She had seen Edward chased by many a young girl during the Edinburgh season, many a great deal richer and more handsome than Miss Bingley. Edward was by no means a careless man who would be coerced by some undeserving female. Anne wondered for a moment if she knew any such lady who would be so deserving as to be worthy of Edwards true affection. She knew he was fond of her, how fond she was not sure. Part of her was far too scared by the idea to find out. What troubled her most was the question did she want to find the answer?
It was almost midnight before the dinner guests took their leave. Anne collapsed on the settee as Darcy walked them all out. He returned to the drawing room and poured himself a small night cap. Georgiana had retired the hour before and the two cousins stayed for a moment enjoying the peaceful silence of a now empty house.
As Darcy sipped his brandy he looked towards Anne as she gathered some items, readying herself to retire for the evening.
"He seems like a very decent sort of fellow, Lord Colville I mean. I am surprised I have not previously made his acquaintance. But if Miss Bingley's observations are to be believed it seems be likes to keep to his own company. Shows a great deal of sense in a person and a superiority of character."
"Edward is exceedingly apt in company," confined Anne, "but it is true, he is rather partial to his own company. It would appear you and he have that in common."
"You refer to him by his Christian name?" Darcy asked. "So it is true, there is a level of intimacy between the two of you?"
"Lord Colville and I,," Anne said in an attempt at defecting Darcy's inquisitive observation, "are merely very good friends. He respects me for who I am and I enjoy his company enormously. He was very kind to me while in Scotland. His friendship is something I shall always cherish."
Darcy finished the last few drops of brandy. "I do believe Anne that Lord Colville holds you in high regard. Has he never given you cause to believe there was more to his attachment than merely the desire to be known to you?"
Anne looked at Darcy, she was surprised by his forwardness. "I..." Anne stammered. "I thought perhaps there was some hint of preference on his side, however he is such a ridiculous flirt when in the company of ladies, I will admit to you it left me uncertain." She looked at Darcy, "he is rich, titled and a very handsome man. He values my friendship I am sure, but I am certain I do not possess the allures to hold such a man's attention captive for long."
"Anne, do not be so severe upon yourself. You possess a great deal of qualities any man would find appealing. Do not be so blind. I saw the way in which he looks upon you. Believe me when I say, I know the look of a man who has lost all sense over a lady."
Anne digested his words. Darcy was not the sort of man to exaggerate, if he thought Edward had feelings towards her, the observation was true. He had been unwilling to discuss his refusal from Miss Elizabeth Bennet, Anne wondered if his thoughts on Edwards feeling came from his own experience.
"Darcy," Anne began, "have you thought anymore of Miss Bennet? What do you intend to do?"
At the mention of her name, Darcy's whole demur tensed. He was still unable to think about their exchange in Kent without much discomfort. It was not merely her rejection that wounded his soul, but the claims the lady had laid at his door. The flaws in his character which she had laid out with such feeling and clarity; the sad reality that Darcy was beginning to believe he was in fact all that she had charged him with. He had been found wanting. It had never occurred to him that Miss Elizabeth Bennet would refuse him. He was the sort of prize any woman of her standing would be foolish to refuse. Yet Elizabeth was by no means any woman. He was now certain he had in no way touched her heart and as a result his heart was breaking. He had never felt such inner turmoil before. His ridiculous intentions towards Anne had simply been that, ridiculous. Bound by honour, duty and fear of being on his own. He and Anne both deserved more than that in marriage. He could not stop thinking of Elizabeth. His very soul seemed possessed, he found himself thinking of her at the most peculiar moments, he had no control over his own thoughts and feelings.
He sighed, "I must confess I do not know. I have no intention of returning to Hertfordshire. It would be a great coincidence indeed to meet her at Rosings again. I have no remedy for my feelings, I know not what is to be done. I must simply endeavour to conquer my feelings and move forward. I am positive after such a determined refusal the lady in question would never deem to have me, and I will be damned if I ever make such a display of my character again."
"Darcy do not be so severe upon yourself, or the lady; are you so sure there is no hope?"
Darcy was just about to answer Anne when a loud knocking rang through the house.
"What the devil," said Darcy, "who on earth would call at such an hour."
The door to the drawing room opened and Lewis, the butler appeared. " My apologies sir but you have a visitor."
"Tell them to be gone Lewis, we are to retire for the evening. They had best leave, I have no intention of entertaining at such a ridiculous hour."
"More is the pity," came the voice from the hall, as Colonel Fitzwilliam entered the room walking straight towards Darcy, embracing him in welcome.
Anne felt her mouth dry instantly and an odd ache began in her stomach. Dressed in his regimentals he looked tired, somewhat tense, but still incredibly dashing. Anne had not seen him since their altercation in the kitchen at Rosings.
"Darcy I apologise for the late hour, but as I rode past I could see the house was still lit up. I was hoping you would be here, for I need someone to talk the day through with, if only for my own sanity. "
"Good evening Richard," Anne said quietly from across the room. Richard spun around so fast he almost stumbled. What on earth was Anne doing here. They couldn't be, he would have heard if it had already taken place, it was too early in the season. Yet here she was, in the Darcy's townhouse, looking as lovely as ever in a dress of crimson silk.
"Anne," Richard said softly. He looked towards Darcy. "My apologies I had no idea the wedding had already taken place. May I offer you both my most sincerest of congratulations, though I am a little put out by my lack of invitation," he said coldly.
Darcy looked at Richard puzzled, taking in his paling complexion and the sternness to his eyes. "Oh lord no, Anne and I are not engaged, she is but staying with Georgiana and myself until the de Bourgh residence is ready. We've had the whole place remodelled. Anne intends to stay in London for the season."
"You are not engaged?" Richard asked.
"No," replied Anne. "We are not, nor do we have any such intention to enter into such a contract. Mother is most displeased hence I returned with Darcy to London. I am sure you can understand, my mother is not someone you wish to cause displeasure."
The two stood staring at one another. Darcy found the exchange between his cousins quite uncomfortable, as though he should not be present in his own drawing room! He had long suspected Anne's partiality towards Richard. Darcy had never known Richard to care for any woman, could it be he returned Anne's favour? He cleared his throat. "Richard as happy as I am to see you, it is past midnight, what brings you at such an hour."
"I was called back to London earlier by the Brigadier General. Darcy the Prime Minster has been shot. Someone walked straight into the house of commons and shot him dead. The inquest shall begin in the morning. The majority of my regiment are being charged with keeping the peace and aiding the house of Lords while we investigate what is behind such an attack. There are rumours it is a coup, but some say he is merely a mad man. We shall learn more at the hearing tomorrow."
"That is shocking news indeed. Richard I shall pour you a brandy. Anne would you care for a drink?"
"No thank you," Anne replied. "I am sure you gentleman have much to talk about and there is little advice I can offer on such an alarming matter. If you both will excuse me, I shall retire for the evening. Goodnight."
Richard walked across the room and taking Anne's hand within his own bent his head to kiss the back of her glove. "Goodnight Anne, until our next meeting," he said with feeling.