Silent Stranger-repost

by lubelle321

It is sad to say that even if Jane and Bingley find their HEA immediately those dearest to their hearts must still wait to find theirs, though perhaps their road will have less violent bumps. A dance can change an entire outlook, but not an entire opinion. *This is a reposting-The later chapters had viewing issues, so I condensed it to a one shot.

Hello, hello! If you were directed here from my original posting of this story I severely apologize for the issues preventing accessing all the chapters. I have no idea what happened and the help desk never responded.

If you are new to this story, I hope you enjoy! There are chapters, but I posted it in a oneshot as there were issues (seen above) in my first posting. You'll see my
Author's notes interspersed as the story progresses because I copied from my original posting.

I'm hoping FF doesn't censor this because I already had it posted. Obviously I'm not plagiarizing my own work, but I will understand and deal with it when the time comes if this is flagged.

(A/N This is my second P&P fic and the first chaptered one. It won't be too long, as much follows the original storyline, but I had the thought that it was interesting that Darcy couldn't find any affection in Jane towards Bingley when Elizabeth straight up thought he hated her until he proposed. [Am I the only one who thought that was funny?] So I set up an instance where we can compare the two and the story unfolded from there.

I hope you enjoy!

As always, I own nothing!)

Realizations

"Miss Elizabeth? Is your next set occupied?"

"Mr. Bingley! I would love to accept such a kind offer from my host, however I seem to have retired from dancing for the evening." She sent a glance at the companion she was unwillingly accompanying.

"I'm sorry to hear of your fatigue," he glanced at Mr. Collins, "but I must insist. As you said, I am your host." He gave her a charming smile that lit up his face.

She could feel nothing but relief in leaving her cousin behind as she took her place for the next dance.

"Are you enjoying your evening, Miss Elizabeth?"

"The ball is very pleasant," she answered truthfully. He noticed her aversion and his smile dimmed somewhat.

"But not to your satisfaction?"

"I...um." She was at a loss on how to answer both truthfully and discretely, though that was usually a skill of hers. Acknowledging her sister's affection for this man she allowed a concession in a quiet voice, "I fear my cousin's attentions, and thus find the company this evening wanting." A contemplative look appeared on his usually felicitous face.

"You expect a proposal?" he whispered. She gave a quick nod, not meeting his eyes. "Surely you have nothing to fear with a simple mention of other prospects." She couldn't help the blush that came to her features at his bluntness.

"I believe you have me confused with another, Mr. Bingley."

"Did I not see you... " He trailed off as someone caught his eye over her shoulder. By the time the dance had her turn around she couldn't tell who he'd been looking at. After a few moments of separation in their steps he continued along a different line of query. "I must confess I did not ask you to dance to speak of your prospects, but rather your sister's." She could not help the gasp that escaped her at his conspiratorial whisper.

"I do not believe I am the one to speak to about such things."

"You misunderstand me, though only in part. I rely on Darcy a great deal. He is my head when my heart runs away, but I have noticed a certain distraction in him lately," she was confused at the teasing hint in his smile, "and I thought to seek the counsel of another."

"I'm afraid I still do not understand."

"I know I am overstepping propriety in asking, but I hope to question you on your sister's affections. Am I imagining her affection simply because I wish it to be there? If I were to make a request would I be received welcomely?"

"Oh! Mr. Bingley! You would make her the happiest of anyone you've ever chanced to meet. My dear friend Miss Lucas and I were just conversing about how we've never seen Jane to be so happy than when in your company. She was of the mind Jane should be more forward in her affections, as to not send you away." He sighed in relief as the most brilliant smile stretched across his face.

"I am so glad. I thought perhaps she was like Darce in her countenance, but was so frightened that she was truly uninterested."

"Darce?"

"Mr. Darcy. Excuse me."

"I must say, I do not see the comparison."

"Darcy refuses to show his emotions. Negative or positive, he gives an air of detachment. Ja- Miss Bennet, on the contrary, gives a pleasant air no matter the circumstance. I have seen her mask withstand my sisters' barbs and find her just as impenetrable as my friend."

"I would argue that she simply sees the good in everyone, even when I can find none myself, but I fear that fact is irrelevant, because your assessment is correct. She is in the habit of not even showing me her true feelings until we retire from the day, if she even does then. She has never been able to afford accidentally offering support to an unwanted suitor for her coveted beauty."

"And Darcy for his coveted estate. I wish he would show his kind generosity more often." She refrained from scowling as she once again considered his regard of his friend. His assessment could be correct, in fact it should be correct considering their familiarity, but that did not excuse Mr. Darcy's many faults. He had slighted her upon their first meeting at the assembly, Mr. Wickham had laid several accusations at his feet that he did not deign important enough to address, he was too proud to converse with the general populace that he considered below himself, and kept a critical eye upon her during the social calls they had both attended.

She missed a step in the dance as she reviewed that last point.

"Excuse me," she whispered as Mr. Bingley sent her a concerned and questioning glance at her misstep. Luckily the song was coming to a close and she was able to quickly and quietly thank him before nearly running from the floor to consider her new information. Only the supperset was left and she looked for an ounce of solitude for the duration of the half hour to engage in some reflection.

She found her escape in a doorway that led to a balcony over the garden. She kept her back to the wall so that none of the partygoers could see her; she had no desire for Mr. Collins to attach himself to her again, nor did she wish to be studied by the object of her reflections.

With Mr. Bingley's conversation in mind she reviewed her reasons to dislike Mr. Darcy.

He had insulted her at the assembly. "She is not handsome enough to tempt me."

She was not one to hold a grudge for such a small infraction, however Mr. Bingley seemed to hold Mr. Darcy in a higher respect than resorting to such insults. Was the slight she had overheard only a small part of an ongoing conversation? Perhaps Mr. Darcy was trying to defend himself from his friend's instigations to dance and had slipped to casting insults during his defense. She shook the thoughts from her head; she was presuming too much. Whatever the case, in this instance, she cared little for the slight and could laugh it away no matter the reason for it.

Mr. Wickham's accusations were great however. To be withheld from a living was inexcusable.

Mr. Darcy refused to offer his side of the incident, rendering her consideration biased. She applied other variables. Mr. Darcy's two acquaintances prior to his stay at Hertfordshire were Mr. Wickham and Mr. Bingley. Wickham was charming while Bingley was expressive. In a single dance she'd seen a wider range in Mr. Bingley's countenance than she had ever witnessed in Mr. Wickham's. Mr. Bingley's openness did not allow much room for deception, while a charming smile and partial information could sway an opinion easily. Could it have swayed her opinion? Recalling Mr. Wickham's accusations she realized how odd it was for him to confide in her so early in their acquaintance. He kept his charming smile even as he explained the great pains of his past. He had no way of knowing her discretion. All of Meryton could know the business between he and Mr. Darcy by now had he misjudged her character. Or perhaps he did misjudge her character and had been hoping to alienate the opinion of Mr. Darcy. Once again she chided herself for assuming too much, however this time she did not dismiss her assumptions wholly, recalling Miss Bingley's words on the matter. Not that she trusted Miss Bingley, but even a blind chicken can find the grain.

His pride manifested itself in a reservation of interaction.

He did not speak to, or dance with, anyone if he could help it. He observed the atmosphere and passed judgement only he could know. His actions were comprised of inactions. His conversation, pleasant but forced. His debate, well thought and without ridicule.

She looked in the door subtly with the hopes of observing him. With luck he happened to be in the room she was adjacent to. Unsurprisingly, he was not dancing. He was on the outskirts appearing to attempt to blend in with the wall ornaments. She gasped and plastered herself back to the wall by the doorframe upon her realization. He was shy. Just as her Jane. Just as Mr. Bingley had alluded.

Her mind floated to his frequent gaze upon her, but before she could consider any more the song ended, marking the beginning of supper.

(A/N Just realized I've been spelling Bennet wrong. *Heavy sigh* Used ctrl-f to fix it, so if I missed some I apologize, blame technology.)

Observations

Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst were both very insistent on following Mr. Bingley from Hertfordshire. Mr. Darcy, though a large portion of him was loath to leave, agreed with their assessments, though for different reasons. Bingley's sisters shared a poor opinion of Miss Bennet's family, which he could only argue with in one particular case (much to the distress of Miss Bingley), but poor manners and lack of connections could be overcome. His concern was for his friend's heart.

Upon joining Bingley in London, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst carried on about how dreadful the Bennets were and any number of reasons that he should forget Miss Bennet and place any prospects of buying Netherfield behind him. He smiled sadly at their chatter and said he would consider their words.

When they were alone Darcy reopened the conversation.

"Bingley, I know you have your affections set on Miss Bennet-"

"She's such an angel, Darce!"

"-but I would be remiss if I did not suggest caution."

"Caution! How am I to be cautious when an angel has stolen my heart and given me hers?!"

"Has she? Bingley, I cannot disagree with your sisters' notions, her family is an...obstacle. However I know that is one such obstacle you could overcome, even if her mother is a mercenary."

"Darce!"

"I am afraid what you would not recover from is a lack of affection."

"Darcy, I thank you for your care, but I am very much decided."

"I have seen you in love before, Charles. Never this deeply, but 'angels' they all were." Bingley made to interrupt, but Darcy forged on. "I have watched Miss Bennet. I have seen no smile she's offered you that she did not offer any other dance partner. No tender look that would not be offered to the butcher down the street. No indication that she will not break your heart, my friend."

Bingley, much to Darcy's astonishment, sighed and relaxed into his chair.

"Yes. I seem to surround myself with like minded people."

"Oh?" He could not fathom where the conversation was headed from his observation to Bingley's.

"Yes. The other night I danced a set with Miss Elizabeth, as you saw. I was abominably frank with her. I explained that this is usually the role that you fill, keeping my head straight when I cannot do so myself, and asked her to assist in your role," he gave a mischievous smile, "as you seemed distracted as of late." Darcy colored slightly but held his skeptical composure. "It seems she is just as reserved in showing attentions as you. Miss Lucas gave Miss Elizabeth the advice to encourage Jane to be more open in her affections for just this such reason."

"I...see…"

"Do you? Miss Elizabeth and I had quite the discussion ensuring the other of our preferred company's preferred countenance."

"Charles, you didn't."

"I...did not. I had no intentions of speaking on your preference to her," Darcy groaned and went to the bar for a brandy, "but her prospects came up rather unexpectedly."

"Her prospects?"

"I entered an innocent line of questioning that I did not know would lead to such conversation. Though I am happy she confided in me. If she was willing to trust me so I can only take what she told me of her sister at face value as the truth." He grinned openly even as Darcy continued to despair over the mention of his own affections.

"And what, may I ask were the prospects you spoke of?" His voice was more of a groan as he considered what may have passed between the two.

"You may not. She told me in confidence."

"Charles. If you thought to suggest I-"

"Darcy. I nearly did suggest, as I had thought you'd made your intentions clear by asking her for a dance-"

"My intention is to forget her!"

"-but what brought about that line of conversation was another prospect."

"Another…" His heart stopped. He saw her in his mind's eye dancing and laughing with the men of Meryton. He loved watching her dance, so he had his pick of faces to accompany her. Then he imagined her being the wife of any of them and felt such heartbreak that he could not describe. But that was what he wanted. She was far below the bar set for his bride. Wickham flashed beside her in his mind and he flinched. He composed himself knowing that Wickham would not pursue Elizabeth, as she had no dowry, and would not ruin her, as she was smarter than to allow him to do so.

"Are you still there Darcy?"

"Hmm? Yes. Sorry. She's...she's soon to be engaged?"

"Not if she can help it. The attentions are most unwelcome. Which is why I mentioned that the existence of other prospects would be a clear defense of such unwanted a proposal." Darcy plopped onto his chair and took a long swig of his drink. "I apologize for overstepping my bounds. I did not say your name as her confusion was enough for me to think better of it."

"I- To you it would be obvious. You know my manner inside and out. To the common observer it would not. She would not have known."

"And now?"

"I… I am not you. I very well may love her, truly I don't know what else this thrall could be, but her family and her status beg me to overcome such feelings."

"I do not envy you. I've seen you, despite my own distraction, and I know you. This will not be easy to overcome." Darcy threw back the rest of his drink instead of answering. He did not wish to acknowledge how much relief he felt knowing she was to remain unattached.

"So you will pursue the elder?"

"I have already bought a ring before you and my sisters arrived."

"Then I congratulate you, as, if your information is correct, you will be soon engaged."

"It is my hope."

"When should I clear my calendar? Or am I not invited?" He grinned at his own jest while Bingley sputtered out that he hadn't even proposed yet. They laughed and the rest of the evening was passed in relatively good spirits between the friends.

(A/N Super short chapter! But it addresses what is needed and that is all I can do.

I am loving the reviews so much! I already have most of the piece finished, and I'm disappointed I had it so far done before posting it because had I known how much everyone loved Bingley I would have tried to make him more involved.

As is, I hope you continue to enjoy!)

Reservations

Mr. Bingley returned to Hertfordshire alone, much to Elizabeth's vexation. She had hoped to discern more of Mr. Darcy's character without the biases she had developed so early in their acquaintance and the resolve to not let his dislike of social excursions to dissuade her.

She was with her sister and Mr. Bingley for a walk when she 'accidentally' outpaced them. A squeal of happiness behind her told her all she needed to know as a smile lit up her entire being.

Jane came rushing up the path as Mr. Bingley doubled back to the house to ask for their father's consent. She explained how inexplicable her happiness was and cheered her good fortune while lamenting that no one else could feel such a thing for how strong it was. Elizabeth joined hands and laughed with her sister, leading her back home and to her fiance.

Mr. Bingley, however, was not rejoicing in the same manner as he conferenced with Mr. Bennet.

"I will not hide behind false joy, Mr. Bingley. My two eldest daughters are my favorites. They are the only sensible ones of the lot and they have been very dependent upon one another throughout the years. I will give you my blessing, but for the sake of my Lizzy I must demand a long engagement."

"Sir?" Dread pooled in Bingley's stomach thinking of waiting to marry his angel.

"I have two reasons for this request. First, I would like to keep Jane with Lizzy for both their sakes. This could be accomplished by agreeing to entertain Elizabeth, but such a circumstance would lend to the issue of my second reason. I do not wish for Mrs. Bennet to use your connections and fortune to torment Lizzy with a line of suitors. She's already convinced an advantage marriage of our eldest will throw our younger four in the way of other rich bachelors."

"I can understand your concern," Bingley spoke slowly. "I will admit I do not wish to wait, but if a long engagement will make both you and Jane happy I will oblige."

"I believe Jane will agree. But shall we draw up parameters?"

"First, this is to be under Jane's approval?"

"Yes, I'd like to make sure she is content with the arrangement."

"And perhaps a time limit? I do not know Elizabeth's intentions about her own marriage."

"Right you are. How about we give her a year of confirmed companionship in her sister. If Lizzy is engaged before next Christmas we will begin your preparations the moment her suitor receives consent. If not then upon the New Year we will begin."

"I like those terms."

The men shook hands and sought out Jane to gain her approval as well.

Jane suggested Elizabeth stay in the dark.

(A/N This chapter is a lot of summary and very little dialog. Sorry, that's just how it played out.

To address Mpal's comment. I briefly looked into what would be acceptable, but not very thoroughly. I figured 3 weeks is short, 2 months would be normal, and 6 long, unless set circumstances arose. I have excuses outlined in a later chapter, but they're fairly loose, and the affected party is choosing to ignore outside opinions. [I considered having them conceal the engagement so only Bingley, Jane, Elizabeth, and Mr. Bennet knew, but decided that was a plot line I wasn't commited to exploring.]

I hope you enjoy!)

Salutations

Mrs. Bennet would have no waiting idly about. After Jane found the terms to be agreeable, though determined that Elizabeth should not be made aware of them, it was for the family to find out next. Their mother was very (loudly) against the long engagement and was plotting everything she could while everyone else spoke of the event in the distant future.

Much to her daughter's mortification, she secured a holiday with her brother in town so that Jane could begin looking at wedding dresses.

Bingley and Elizabeth both felt her loss greatly when the pair quit for London.

The regiments had also left for the north. Their time in Meryton was complete and the youngest Bennet sisters were sorely missing them. Elizabeth found she had enjoyed their company, especially that of Mr. Wickham, but she did not fret to see them go. In general their lifestyle was a hard one and in Mr. Wickham's case she was not entirely sure she trusted him. Sure, he was still pleasant company, but she found him contradicting himself at times. Especially in concern to his relation with Mr. Darcy. It wasn't his words that were contradicting, but rather his actions. He claimed he could not call out Mr. Darcy's treatment of him for regard of the late Mr. Darcy, and yet the moment he was gone from Meryton Mr. Wickham shared their common past liberally.

Charlotte became the new Mrs. Collins and Elizabeth was surprised at how much she still enjoyed her correspondence. Her mother detested the friend very much, but she had never been fond of her to begin with.

When Mrs. Collins extended an invitation to Elizabeth she could hardly decline as she found her current company severely wanting. It was only her father that she wished not to leave behind. And so it was with a decided joy that she ventured to Hunsford with Sir. William and Miss Lucas.

Charlotte was as lovely as ever. Tending to a household suited her nicely and she found methods to separate herself from Mr. Collins when necessary. She placed Lady Catherine in a high regard as her husband's disposition required, and the lady in question had lent her quite the tutelage in maintaining household affairs.

It was with great surprise the Collinses and their guests were invited to Rosings to dine.

It became regular, though not quite expected, to dine with Lady Catherine twice a week. The pattern persisted for three weeks before two gentlemen were added to their party: Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy.

The two called upon Hunsford unexpectedly at their arrival and Elizabeth was quite determined to observe Mr. Darcy. Charlotte alluded to what reasons he may have for seeing Mr. Collins home, but she laughed such accusations away and contented herself with researching him.

Such observations, however, proved difficult when his eyes remained fixed on her. He continued to maintain his unaffected countenance, but she recalled Mr. Bingley noting this was common for him, so perhaps he was not searching for offense in her appearance and manner.

He spoke to her little, asking after the health of her relatives and Mr. Bingley, but afforded no one else any conversation. It was a very good thing Colonel Fitzwilliam was so amiable, or it would have been a silent visit.

Greeting Mr. Darcy at Rosings the following week was just as strained. He seemed to be frequently ashamed of his aunt's behavior but resigned to lending her an ear in many one sided conversations.

His eyes continued to follow her.

When she played upon the pianoforte he drew very near and she had to remind herself to have courage, even under his scrutiny. He then applied himself to teasing her and, had she not had ammunition enough herself, she would have been mortified. His unexpected smile when he said he was not afraid of her rather disarmed her, but her courage rose as it was wont to do.

She discerned little further of his character aside from a sense of duty overwhelming a sense of embarrassment in regards to Lady Catherine and perhaps a hidden humor.

Greetings were again most unfortunate when he decided to call while she was alone writing to her sister. The silence was deafening and her only thoughts strayed to his confession that he did not converse well with strangers. She fought to think of what his early relationship with Mr. Bingley might have looked like.

She tried asking after his quitting Netherfield in the winter, but he had little to say past his desire to see his sister. She mentioned her sister's engagement to Mr. Bingley and he only expressed an astonishment that it was to be a long one. She agreed and that item of conversation died. He commented on the house and his aunt's hand in it and she relayed how grateful her cousin was. Somehow this line of conversation remained and forged into the benefits of a woman leaving home upon marriage. He seemed particularly keen on suggesting she would wish to leave Longbourn's shadow.

When the others arrived he spent perhaps two minutes in silence before taking his leave.

Charlotte, once again, wanted to suggest he was partial to her, but at the explanation of the encounter she admitted he seemed to be looking for anything to do outside of Rosings.

As Elizabeth took her walks she found it common to meet him. Their formal inquiries were awkward, but he would take the time to change his own course and walk with her until she retreated to Hunsford.

She wished so badly to form a stronger opinion of him, but hadn't a thing to say. The questions she wished to ask to form his character she'd already exhausted while in Hertfordshire and gained a distinct lack of answers. Her new observations were much of the same repeated manner. He was every bit the stranger to her now as he was upon their first meeting at the assembly.

She dared not mention Wickham again, though that was the only avenue of query that might break his constant mask as it had when they'd danced.

She sighed as a new day and a new walk brought her to say hello to him once more.

(A/N I frankenstiened much of the language from BBC's 1995 version for this chapter as well as directly from the book. I discovered my love for P&P from the 2005 version, but found an equal love in the 1995 series.

It looks like this fic will be 11 chapters, though three or four of them are very short. I only have the last chapter yet to write.)

Propositions

As much as Elizabeth was enjoying her stay and the company it provided, she was terribly homesick for her sister. True, their mother had Jane in London, so she would not be with her either way, but she found herself making excuses to Charlotte and her cousin and reviewing the letters she'd shared with Jane as a small comfort. It was a surprise then, when Mr. Darcy came into the room, hurriedly asking after her health. She gave him a positive response, which he accepted before sitting down, fidgeting, then rising to begin pacing.

She remained in shock, wondering what could have affected him so.

"In vain I have struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you."

Astonishment was not a strong enough word for her surprise. Had she to guess any strong emotions he might possess for her it would have been a deep seeded hatred. In her silence he continued.

"In declaring myself thus I am well aware that I will be going expressly against the wishes of my family, my friends, and, I hardly need add, my own better judgment. The relative situation of our families is such that any alliance between us must be regarded as a highly reprehensible connection. As a rational man I cannot but regard it as such myself, but it cannot be helped. Almost from the earliest moments of our acquaintance I have come to feel for you… a passionate admiration and regard...which despite all my struggles, has overcome every rational objection. And I beg you, most fervently, to relieve my suffering and consent to be my wife."

For a moment she sat in silence, slowly observing all he had said. His demeanor belied that he understood her to accept, even if his words spoke apprehension.

As his meanings settled on her reigned in her temper at his words against her family and responded cordially.

"I am sorry to have occasioned pain to anyone. It had been most unconsciously done however, and I hope it will be of a short duration. The feelings which, you tell me, have long prevented the acknowledgement of your regard, can have little difficulty in overcoming it after this explanation."

He flinched, or at the very least twitched, at that and she silently berated herself the scorn that slipped into her response. She'd thought she'd overcome her temper at his words.

Shock was apparent on his face and anger flitted over his expression repeatedly as her words sunk in.

"And this is the response I am to receive?" His voice was hoarse with emotion.

"Mr. Darcy," she spoke softly and as even as her nerves would allow, "I have long declared, though mostly in the confidence of my sister, that only the deepest of love could induce me into matrimony. You have bestowed your good opinion most unwillingly and I do not know you. No matter how I try to make out your character you remain a stranger to me."

"A stranger?"

"Yes." She held his gaze, refusing to back down from her statements. "A stranger who chose to admit you like me against your will, against your reason, and even against your character." At this she looked away as emotion attempted to overtake her.

"And in what way have I hidden my character?" His attempts to keep his voice even made his words sound more like a growl.

"Your expression is cold and your conversation often forced. You offer insults to those you've hardly entered an acquaintance with, myself included. You are prideful and consider everyone beneath you, again, myself included. And yet, your friend, kind as can be, holds you in the highest regard and reliance. My aunt, who hails from Derbyshire in her youth, has only the kindest things to say of your family. It is quite befuddling that it is as if everyone around has painted you the picture of esteem and you are the only one to mar the sight. Aside from Mr. Wickham, that is."

"Oh yes, you take an eager interest in that man's affairs."

"Who that knows what his misfortunes have been, can help feeling an interest in him!"

"His misfortunes! yes his misfortunes have been great indeed!"

"And of your infliction! You've taken no interest in defending yourself from his accusations, so what shall I understand but that he speaks the truth? That you've withheld him of the advantages designed for him, forcing him into near poverty!"

"And this is your opinion of me! This is the estimation in which you hold me! My faults, according to this calculation, are heavy indeed! But perhaps these offenses might have been overlooked, had not your pride been hurt by my honest confession of the scruples that had long prevented my forming any serious design. Had I concealed my struggles, and flattered you into the belief of my being impelled by unqualified, unalloyed inclination; by reason, by reflection, by everything. But disguise of every sort is my abhorrence. Nor am I ashamed of the feelings I related. They were natural and just. Could you expect me to rejoice in the inferiority of your connections? — to congratulate myself on the hope of relations, whose condition in life is so decidedly beneath my own?"

"You are mistaken, Mr. Darcy, if you suppose that the mode of your declaration affected me in any other way, than as it spared the concern which I might have felt in refusing you, had you behaved in a more gentlemanlike manner." She saw him start at this, but he said nothing, and she continued: "You could not have made the offer of your hand in any possible way that would have tempted me to accept it. I have given my primary reason as well as several secondaries, and if you wish to assume that I might have withheld something, that is for you to imagine."

"Forgive me for having taken up so much of your time, and accept my best wishes for your health and happiness."

As the door closed behind him tears finally spilled down her cheeks. They were not from sadness, nor happiness, nor anger. They were from the sheer force of boiling undetermined emotions bursting throughout her being. It would seem emotion itself was what she felt now, rather than the kindness of a particular facet.

She took a new walkway the following day and was surprised to see him despite such. He pressed a letter into her hand and tried to quickly make his retreat.

Her voice stopped him.

(A/N Thank you so much for your reviews! I've loved writing this and hope you continue to enjoy it as you read.)

Conversations

"Mr. Darcy!" He halted and turned to her, but would not meet her eye. Thinking fast she stumbled over her next few words. "I'm afraid on our walks I have always been the one to choose a path. I would assume you know Rosings much better than I; would you be willing to show me your favorite route?" She could hardly breathe as his eyes flickered to the letter she held, down the path towards Rosings, and finally, finally, to her eyes.

"My…my favorite scene is best viewed from horseback. … Shall I call for two steeds?"

"I… I'm sorry. I do not ride."

"Oh?" He offered him her arm, but looked resolutely ahead instead of at her.

"I'm afraid an accident in my childhood led to my never gaining that particular skill."

"And here I thought your 'courage always rose at every attempt at intimidation.'"

She smiled. "I do not believe it was the horse's intent to intimidate, only its nature."

"Well, I will settle for showing you my second favorite view Rosings has to offer."

"And I will enjoy it despite its inferiority."

They walked in silence for a minute or two before Mr. Darcy had had enough.

"I must enquire why you've asked for an escort. You made it very clear yesterday you are not partial to my company."

"I remember you once admitting that a fault of yours is a short temper." He sighed instead of responding. Her voice dropped to an nearly inaudible whisper. "And that your good opinion, once lost, is gone forever." He stared at her for a few steps but she could find no more words to say.

"You've not lost my good opinion, Miss Bennet." His volume matched hers and she almost thought she imagined his words.

"But you are angry."

"I will not deny it. But nor will I take my frustrations out on you." He cleared his throat. "Nor will I take my frustrations out on you any further. It is your right to...refuse a suitor." She closed her eyes and took a breath to collect herself. "But you haven't answered my question."

"Perhaps I don't have an answer. I see you are more like Jane than I imagined. I admit I assumed I was wrong when I said you hated everyone, but I was thoroughly surprised to learn you didn't hate me."

"Don't."

"Pardon?" She couldn't think what she'd said to offend him.

"I don't hate you." She blushed. "Anger at a circumstance is not cause for hatred towards an individual. I shall conquer this," he flexed his hand, "with time." Her flush deepened and she couldn't even look where he might fall in her peripheral without burning with embarrassment.

"I… I admit I always found you…interesting; but, if I may be frank, more as a puzzle than a prospect."

"Trying to make out my elusive character?"

"Laugh all you like, but you are far from clear in your mannerisms."

"Bingley knew. Immediately. I could curse him for his pestering."

"Mmm… Instead you insulted me?" He flinched in admission.

"You heard…"

"Clear as mud in the dry season, you are."

"I apologize." She waved it off. "And once again I'm wondering at your wanting my company this morning."

"I…" She sighed again, recalling the emotion that was still pulsing through her, though without the violence it had yesterday. "I stand by what I said yesterday: I will not marry a stranger."

"And I've one chance to allow you to know me?"

"I'm not cruel, Mr. Darcy. I know you leave tomorrow. We have but one connection and one moment that I know we will meet again. For my sister's sake I do not wish for us to leave things as they were yesterday until we meet at the church."

"So there never was a chance," his voice was strained, but she couldn't tell with what emotion.

She couldn't find a suitable response so they walked in silence once more. When they reached a grove with breathtaking blossoms Mr. Darcy dropped her arm and gave her space so she could explore uninhibited. After seeing her fill she found a place to sit and realized he was, once again, watching her. His gaze, she now knew, was not to find faults and pass judgment, but rather to to admire. She blushed and looked for something to do with her hands. Fingering the letter she lifted it for him to see.

"What, pray tell, will I find in here?"

"The scribbles of an enraged temper and bruised pride." She hid her smile, but not well. "I cannot defend myself from your accusations, save one. That is my defense. It is not to change your mind or plead another offer, but a warning if you will."

"Of Mr. Wickham?"

"Yes. My complete history with him."

"I had my doubts about his inconsistencies before, but, aside from Miss Bingley's advice, his character is impeccable. I only need your word and a reason for his fabrication. You needn't divulge that which you do not wish." She tried to hand him back the letter but he, instead, clasped both her hands in his around the letter.

"My word would have been enough?"

"And reason. At the Netherfield ball I reflected on his behavior and found myself wondering. But you weren't willing to confirm my suspicions." She was very aware that his hands were still on hers as he closed his eyes and breathed deeply.

"Keep the letter. But… forgive my temper?"

"Of course." She blushed when he finally pulled away and she felt the loss of his warm hands sorrowfully.

They walked the rest of the way in silence. It wasn't uncomfortable, but it definitely wasn't comfortable either. They were just there, with her hand tucked into his arm and his unreadable gaze straight ahead; sometimes she would chew on her lip, sometimes he would clench his fists. Eventually they reached Hunsford's gate.

She bit her lip again as he bowed and she curtsied and they went their separate ways without another word.

The two gentlemen left the following day.

(A/N Hey again! Thank you all for your support!

A note to one of my reviewers, I really appreciate your critics. I'm new to this fandom and still love reading the botched proposal so I can hate on it all over again and I tend to write what I want to read. I apologize for the redundancy.

Thank again to all!)

Excursions

Jane sighed as fate kept her sister from her once again. Something had happened to Lizzy while they were both away, but she would not explain what. She was much more reserved, far too pensive. Of course, every time Jane mentioned it she found a way to laugh it off.

At the Gardiner's request to take Lizzy on a summer excursion with them, it was all Jane could do to keep from groaning. Her patience was based on being with her beloved sister, but with how little time they had spent together this past year it would seem she should have married immediately instead.

With a sigh she acknowledged that it was still best to wait for the New Year to begin planning. Charles was maintaining Netherfield estate while simultaneously looking for one to purchase; preferably in the north. She assured him many times and very vigorously that she did not mind leaving Meryton (no matter what her mother thought), and happily studied what would be required of her as mistress of an estate.

He was currently with Mr. Darcy in London speaking about observable properties. There was a likely prospect not too far from Pemberley that he wanted to view. He planned to visit Pemberley with his sisters in tow in order to travel to the home, which was but 30 miles away. Neither Miss Bingley nor Mrs. Hurst knew that the visit was for business reasons rather than a strict social call.

Jane vaguely wondered if the Gardiners would happen upon Charles and his party, but the dates did not seem to line up in her reckoning and she dared not overexpose poor Lizzy to Charles' sisters by mentioning it if she could help it.

The parties did, however, meet; or rather, Mr. Darcy met the Gardiners after traveling a day earlier than expected.

He speedily changed his jacket and practically ran in order to keep Elizabeth-a rather embarrassed Elizabeth-from leaving Pemberley in such short order.

It took little convincing to have the party tour the grounds and he happily walked along with them. As they rounded the first half of the path he was rather silent, though amiable enough. He answered any question the Gardiners asked and even offered Mr. Gardiner use of the stream or pond for fishing, though it did not take long for her aunt to require a more sedate pace and her uncle waved off Elizabeth's help, offering his wife his arm. The younger pair quickly outpaced the older couple.

They talked much easier then, discussing books, plays, estate management, and even a few childhood experiences.

"I understand how a broken arm can be a deterrent, but I promise you, I will get you on horse's back, and I dare say, you will enjoy it."

"Do not make such promises you cannot keep," she smiled at him, but her heart lurched, reminding her that he would never get the chance to keep that promise, as their lives remained so separate no matter how fate drew them together.

"I will bring a fair tempered horse to Bingley's wedding, and you will have no choice."

"Yes!" she laughed, "I am certain that an inexperienced rider will do wonderfully atop a horse in a bridesmaid's gown." He laughed at the image and they continued down the path well ahead of her aunt and uncle.

"You'll have to surrender this notion Mr. Darcy, though I suppose you are not one accustomed to not getting what you want."

"Yes that is true. Though you seem to do your best to change that."

"There is little that could have changed your first concession on my account."

"Well, I suppose if I were to force that issue I could have simply compromised you," he said with a conspiratorial smirk.

"Mr. Darcy!" She could feel the color drain from her face in horror. "How could you say such a thing? Even in jest."

"Come now, you needle me all the time. Can I not throw a barb at you every once in a while?"

"I do not find it amusing to take away a woman's right to refuse a suitor." His bothersome smirk remained, even with his own words thrown at him.

"You simply haven't found the punchline." She glared at him. "I would have been stuck with a spitfire wife who hated my guts for the rest of my life." She let out something between a scoff and a disbelieving laugh and he grinned in triumph. "See. You can come around to find the amusement."

"Mr. Darcy, there is truly no other like you."

"And I dare say, you are glad for that fact."

"I dare say that I am very grateful to be lucky enough to have your acquaintance, no matter how you try my patience." He gave her a long look that she could not decipher so she changed the conversation. "How is it that you are so completely different now than before?"

"I… Well there are few who see this. I share almost everything with my sister, and what I do not is based on her age, not my trust. Mr. Bingley of course is my best friend. And Richard is my cousin but might as well be my brother. They are the only ones who may see me as you do now."

"And why me?"

"I-I am comfortable with you; no matter how uncomfortable our past."

"Oh? You did say you do not find conversing with strangers easy…"

"Yes. I am- That is- It is difficult. It is a strain to maintain a conversation, even a pleasant one with people I know. I'm left to analyze every shift and hope I interpret their meaning correctly. Body language, tone, the double meanings so often found in the ton. I loathe it all because no matter how much I study the room I feel as if I am still missing something. So I remain reserved and just observe until I know someone well enough to converse with them capably."

"But you allow your true self to so few?"

"How many people are you truly comfortable with, Elizabeth?" She looked at him in shock and his eyes widened as he realized his slip. "Miss Bennet! I apolog-"

"No! It's al- I- Oh…" She cleared her throat and took a breath before meeting his eye and speaking weakly, "I don't know. More than three." He nodded slowly, keeping the eye contact.

"If I had to venture a guess they would include your elder sister, Mrs. Collins, commonly your father-but perhaps not always, and you seem very close to Mrs. Gardiner."

"Mmm. There are a very few Meryton merchants who fall into the category as well, but you have my usual confidants well determined." He gave a small smile in response.

"I have more than three, too…" She blushed under his gaze and implication.

"If you keep speaking as such I'll have to hire a maid for fear of my reputation." Her jest was weak and her blush was strong, but the small smile he offered as he straightened his posture made her wonder if such a possibility was so terrible. She fisted the skirts of her dress at the thought and found a sudden interest in a peculiar tree they passed.

"I am a gentleman, and will act as such." She could hardly hear him for her pulse pounding in her ears.

(A/N I thoroughly apologize if I misrepresent anyone here. Everyone experiences things differently and this description of social anxiety is how I would interpret Mr. Darcy's experience based on what I've read and seen.)

(A/N 'Nother short one. Sorry, but it is what it is. We are closing in on the end and I hope you all liked reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it!

I'll post the next chapter today too, as it is also short and together they'd make about a normal one.)

Lamentations

She wept openly as she read the letter from Jane. Curse her stupid sister! She'd met Mr. Bingley just the day before and couldn't stand the thought of him jilting Jane because Lydia had run off with that miscreant.

In her sobbing mess she ran directly into the chest of the man who had come to call on her.

"Elizabeth? What's wrong? Are you unwell?" His voice was easily panicked at her state of duress.

"She-she-" Sobs prevented her from explaining, so she handed him her letters from Jane. He gave her a skeptical look but called for a footman to fetch her aunt and uncle and then sat down to read the letters.

She took comfort that he was closer than entirely proper. It was a simple way to offer support when he had no other means to do so. She trusted him wholly and sobbed harder wishing he would hold her in comfort, knowing that would only ever be a fantasy.

She knew. It was far too obvious that she loved him. She knew. Perhaps she'd always been inclined to do so, for hate is not the opposite of love but rather its twin in equal force. She could never have been indifferent to such a man as Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy.

She knew this now, after speaking with him in an abominably close manner. After trading stories and teasing. After he'd jested about compromising her just to ensure she was by his side.

Yes, she knew she loved him, and just when she was on the precipice of admitting so to him Lydia ruined everything.

She ruined her own life.

She ruined her sisters' lives.

She ruined Jane's upcoming marriage.

She ruined everything, all for the infatuation of a lying rat who thought himself a fox pretending to be a rooster.

A warm hand found her knee and she looked up to find murder in Mr. Darcy's eyes.

"Elizabeth," he whispered. She hiccupped at the use of her given name, but realized-rather belatedly-he'd used it upon entrance and the maid had likely heard him. "Forgive me. I have to go."

"Of course." She found every ounce of her self control to forge her nerves into steel just to get through this encounter. "Tell… tell your sister we had to leave on urgent business. Try to spare her from the truth for a while. I know this cannot be concealed long, but…"

"I will take care of it."

Yes. He would take good care of Georgiana. If only Lydia would marry Wickham, then perhaps Georgiana would feel safer herself. With a sigh as Mr. Darcy left the room, Elizabeth consented that even if such an impossible course happened, for despite Jane's hope of them marrying she had none, her opportunity for a love match was out of reach.

Mr. Darcy could not marry into a family tainted by such a scandal.

Mr. Darcy would never marry the sister of Mrs. Wickham.

Mr. Darcy found himself back to having only three confidants.

But Mr. Darcy had other plans.

He had better information on Mr. Wickham's past and connections, he had a naturally imposing aura, and he had a large stake in the wellbeing of one Miss. Bennet; not to mention he had a best friend with an even greater stake in the wellbeing of another Miss Bennet.

It was with these two Bennets (angels as Bingley would call them and muses as Mr. Darcy would say) in mind that they left their sisters in Pemberley and made for London.

Georgiana kept the letter that arrived for Mr. Bingley after his departure from his sisters. It was from his fiance, and after seeing how they treated the lovely Miss Elizabeth she dared not guess what they would do to a letter from her sister.

She didn't know what called the gentlemen away on such short notice, but she did her best to play the hostess and censure any unnecessary gossip the girls longed to share.

Restitutions

Jane despaired. She'd sent a letter to Charles a day later than her letter to Lizzy and had received no reply. She knew he was in a precarious situation, so she was unsurprised to think he would deny marrying into a scandal. She kept her head high during the day; there were whispers that Lydia's judgement would affect the sisters' prospects, but that rumor held no water until Mr. Bingley's actions were confirmed.

He did not write.

Lydia was found-of course she was. It was a sigh of relief in the Bennet household when such news came from Mr. Gardiner.

It was a short time later that Jane received a note from Mr. Bingley detailing that he intended to be at Netherfield in short order. She was relieved, yes. And happy, of course. But an awful feeling spoiled her appetite and drove her from company outside her Lizzy.

Their mother was horrid, crying in relief and in the next breath boasting the match.

Their father was passive, consenting to their visiting Longbourn only to save face.

Kitty was beside herself from Father's warnings and threats.

Mary was annoyed at the chaos Lydia had left in her wake. (The very predictable chaos, she would announce.)

The two eldest sisters found comfort only in each other.

Lizzy knew Jane ached from the test of Charles affections.

Jane knew Lizzy resented Wickham's connection to their family.

And yet, both were surprised to hear Mr. Darcy's name spoken by their sister when she detailed her wedding the second time through.

Jane asked her not to, but Elizabeth sent an inquiry to their aunt.

"I suppose you don't want to read it?"

"Of course not! Lydia said it was private. And I've no intention of giving Wickham reason to be cross with Lydia." Elizabeth flinched at the insinuation.

"You're supposed to only think good of everyone and everything…"

"Yes, well. Naïve I may be, but I am not a child."

"Right you are. And your respect for Lydia's secrecy is so very noble. Even if your intended is a part of the secret."

"What?!" Elizabeth laughed as she waved her letter around. "Give me that!" The two laughed as the elder chased the younger around in an approximation of their antics from their youth.

At last they both lay on their stomachs on the bed with the letter in front of them.

In short, Mrs. Gardiner detailed that Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley had discovered Wickham and Lydia. Lydia had no idea, but Wickham never intended to marry her. After discovery Mr. Bingley negotiated on Mr. Darcy's behalf while the latter addressed Mr. Gardiner about the current state of affairs. He insisted that he take all the financial recourse, as he felt to blame. Mrs. Gardiner felt it necessary to add in her own thoughts on his reasoning. (This spurred Jane to poke Lizzy's sides and ask for a chronicle of their meetings. She knew Mr. Darcy had been in Kent, but had assumed their interactions had been much the same as before he'd left Hertfordshire.) Mr. Bingley also persuaded Lydia to remove herself from Mr. Wickham until the wedding. Mr. Darcy acted as a witness.

Neither wished for credit as each had reputations to maintain and, as the bride's uncle, Mr. Gardiner had an explicit reason to accept the credit.

Jane glowed with happiness as she reread how secure Charles' affections were.

Elizabeth could not allow herself to hope for a better situation than friendship with Mr. Darcy. Perhaps they would continue their confidence. Despite her heartache she fell asleep with a smile, knowing that Mr. Darcy had indeed taken care of it.

Affirmations

As hunting season came in, so did two gentlemen. One was expected, but the other was not.

Mr. Darcy did not see the wistful smile that adorned Elizabeth's face as she saw the man of her affections ride up to call on her home.

The gentlemen did not know the two eldest were aware of their assistance in Lydia's marriage. The girls cringed at each veiled insult and curt response their mother uttered at Mr. Darcy. Mr. Bingley glared, but did not intervene. Mr. Darcy took it all with his usual stony countenance.

Elizabeth burned with the need to thank him. Every jibe and every slur by her mother made her wish to shout it out in the parlor in front of everyone.

But she held her tongue.

He would appreciate no grand gestures of thanks.

He would desire as little attention as possible.

He would likely meet her thanks with a polite smile and an indifferent comment.

He would not love her any longer though, she could not hope for that.

Mr. Bingley left with barely a word in, past securing a walk with Jane after luncheon.

Darcy sat rubbing his face as the two talked through their morning.

"How do you stay so stoic?! She's a-"

"She's your future mother-in-law."

"Oh! don't give me that posh as if she's not yours too!"

"Elizabeth refused me Bingley. She gave her reasons and was very sound in her choice. I… I want her to be happy, and that obviously won't be with me."

"Yes, yes. You've told me the tale. But you would do well to remember her primary reason is likely moot, and her secondary reasons all seem to be forgiven."

"I can not ask her a second time!"

"Darce."

"I can't. I barely got through it the first time. Who shall split my chest to do surgery on my broken heart if she refuses me twice?"

"You're being-"

"I would surely die."

"-overdramatic. Really Darcy."

"Perhaps I am, my friend, but I would rather trade places with my cousin in a war zone than cause her the distress and disgust of another unwanted proposal."

"I do not think it would be unwanted."

"She barely looked at me, Bingley!"

"Yes; she did seem quite embarrassed on her mother's behalf-which I remember happening far more than once during our acquaintance with the Bennets. Which is an acquaintance we have an engagement with here directly. Let's make for Longbourn and see how the afternoon goes, shall we?"

Me. Darcy tried to mentally prepare himself, but was quite put out when he found himself alone with Elizabeth during their walk.

She seemed similarly uncomfortable as she kept fisting her skirts, taking a breath as if to speak, and then slumping her shoulders in apparent defeat. The process was repeated several times before she finally spoke.

"I wanted to thank you-for what you did for Lydia. I'm sure my entire family would be at your feet in a moment if they knew, but only Jane and I know your involvement. And Mr. Bingley's." She added as an afterthought.

"I have no desire of thanks from your family. But...I appreciate your thanks." She looked away to hide her face for a few steps as they continued walking.

"I apologize for their-for my mother's behavior."

"Think nothing of it."

"And for the discomfort you had to face in finding her."

"I would do it all again for you." He tensed as he realized his slip, while she stopped walking altogether to face him. "I apologize, that was untoward. What I meant was…" He searched his mind for any other excuse for his words while she examined his face. He cursed his rotten tongue. How many times must he err and make her uncomfortable. Her fine eyes had him in a trance and he decided to bite the bullet and leave all pretense behind. "What I meant was," he spoke softly, unsure of her reaction, "no matter what I have tried I have yet to overcome this." He took her hand gently, allowing her to pull away if she wished. She did not. "I know your feelings, and I am doing my best not to overstep, but I cannot bear to see you unhappy. Forgive me, please?"

"No. I will not forgive you, for I do not wish to forget such affections." She squeezed his hand and he felt that spark of hope in his chest ignite into a roaring bonfire.

"Would I be remiss in attempting to convey those emotions?"

"No."

"Elizabeth," she smiled at his use of her given name, "I love… I love… I love you." He could hardly push himself through the sentence for its weight. "My desire is still the same as April and, I must say, much stronger too. A word from you will silence me on this matter forever, but I cannot help but hope-will you accept my hand in marriage?"

She smiled and a few tears ran down her face. The tears worried him for but a moment, as her smile spoke volumes of her answer.

"It would make me the happiest woman on this earth to be your wife."

He could hardly restrain himself to only lifting her hands to kiss them instead of pulling her in for a kiss upon the lips. With a happy sigh he assured himself there would be time for that later. She gave him a crooked grin as she no doubt read his thoughts in his gaze.

"And here I thought I needed a maid. I guess you were telling the truth. You are a gentleman."

He laughed openly and she joined him as they practically ran hand in hand to find Bingley and Jane. With their congratulations all that was left was to speak to Mr. Bennet.

His only objection was the belief of his daughter's indifference, which was placed aside when she made it obvious he was mistaken.

(A/N Here is the short epilogue! Thanks again for making the journey with me!)

Declarations

Mrs. Bennet was quite put out that she was not more involved in planning the wedding-the double wedding. The very day that Mr. Darcy proposed to Elizabeth the four began making plans together.

Jane was particularly embarrassed to confess their father's condition upon her engagement; but the truth was forced out of her when Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam asked why they had changed their original plan to wait for the new year.

Mrs. Bennet had many opinions (loud ones), but mostly she was given small meaningless tasks, including copying scripted invitations and notices for relatives.

Elizabeth's resolve was quickly tested. Lady Catherine de Bough, in all her glory, hailed Longbourn one morning while the engaged gentlemen had yet to quit Netherfield to call on their brides that day. Her insults were given readily in a passionate manner and her accusations were appalling to say the least. She seemed to spit with every sentence she spoke and her venom was thoroughly toxic.

Elizabeth bore it all and dismissed the Lady of Rosings without a moment of regret or indecision. She'd said her piece and it was Elizabeth's prerogative to ignore her.

Mr. Darcy was not so docile when he heard of the visitor. He had every intention of publicly cutting her out of his circle for speaking to his fiance as such, especially in defense of a nonexistent arrangement. Elizabeth calmed him enough to have him consent to seeing how she reacted to their marriage rather than the engagement.

Mr. Bingley always sported a smile. His management of Netherfield had left the tenants well and they were sad he did not plan to renew his lease in the new year. Mrs. Bennet was beside herself with anger at losing the promise of her eldest daughter as a neighbor.

Mary and Kitty worried over the loss of their sisters. All their parents' favorites were going to be absent and the two were unsure what kind of attention they might receive in the solitude. Mary threw herself further into her pianoforte practices and Kitty took up a keen interest in drawing and painting-especially the outdoors where she could avoid everyone.

It took only six weeks to put the arrangements together, and the wedding took place in mid November. It was beautiful, aside from Mrs. Bennet's carrying voice.

By January both women had fit into their new roles well. 30 miles was not far enough to keep them apart. They visited at least once a week and each eventually offered for a sister to stay with them; Mary with Jane and Kitty with Elizabeth.

Kitty and Georgie got along famously. The five sisters had a fast bond. Caroline and Louisa were sometimes invited to their intimate gatherings, but it was rare as Caroline would much rather search for a rich husband in London and Louisa followed her younger sister everywhere. Lydia wrote for money at times; Elizabeth and Jane sent food baskets instead.

Just as the eldest Bennets had married together, they began looking for wet nurses together too.