Chapter 14

Although attendance at balls had never been something with which he was comfortable, Darcy was beginning to think perhaps they were in general not so terrible compared to the evening he was currently enduring. This evening had been one full of memorable events he was sure to never forget no matter how many more lifetimes he was forced to live. He was also convinced that no event, either past or future, could even compare to the Netherfield Ball in regards to ridiculousness.

Shortly after Miss Lucas left his side, he was approached by an indignant Miss Bingley who insisted he escort her into dinner. Not wishing to offend his hostess he had offered her his arm. He hoped that his action would not go unnoticed by Miss Elizabeth and that she would see he was unaffected by her words. Guilt at his desire to inspire jealousy in his beloved was soon overcome by his annoyance with Miss Bingley. As they headed towards the supper room he was regaled with her telling of her attempt to help "poor Miss Eliza."

"How dare she brush off my concern for her!" Miss Bingley huffed. "I was simply desirous to help a friend.I know of Mr. Wickham's evils against you, my dear Mr. Darcy, and now the whole neighborhood is talking of his guilt. I would have thought that hearing of his wicked ways and my testimony as to his unworthiness for her attention would have swayed her opinion. Yet her determination to think well of the gentleman only further proves how unsuitable the Bennet family is."

Darcy had struggled not to let her notice his shudder at her indication of a close relationship between them. Although she claimed to know of Wickham's faults against him, Darcy had taken great care to conceal his dealings with him from the Bingley's. After seeing Wickham was in the neighborhood, Darcy had wanted to confide in his closest friend, yet worried about Georgiana's reputation if anyone untrustworthy were to discover the truth and Bingley's sisters were as untrustworthy as they come. He had decided that he would share with them nothing more than whom Wickham's father had been and that the son was not a good man. Bingley had been immediately concerned since Wickham had been in company with his angel, yet Darcy had assured him that he had men who had been following Wickham for years, and would soon arrive in the area to keep him out of trouble. Thankfully, he had no need for his men as he was able to handle Wickham personally.

Seeing his smirk, Miss Bingley tightened her grip on his arm. "I am glad to see you agree with me, Mr. Darcy."

Chuckling, Darcy looked down at her and wanted to wipe the conceited smile from her face. "On the contrary, Miss Bingley," he said. "I find her unwillingness to believe someone wholly unconnected with the man quite commendable."

Shocked, Miss Bingley gasped in disbelief. "Surely you cannot mean what you say, sir."

"Indeed I am serious, madam. I find it refreshing to meet a young lady who is not swayed in her personal observations and opinions by idle gossip."

"Mr. Darcy! How can you say such a thing? Mr. Wickham has slandered your good name, a fact to which all the officers here have attested to, and they have openly shared his misdeeds. He is guilty yet you do not fault her for believing him to be innocent?"

Darcy contemplated her words. While it was true that he had spent a good portion of the evening wondering why Miss Elizabeth still thought well of Wickham, he could not bear listening to Miss Bingley ridicule his beloved. His concern for Miss Elizabeth greatly outweighed his desire to admit his companion in the right, no matter how he agreed with her; he must defend his beloved.

"How could I condemn her? I admire the fact that she is unwilling to listen to what is possibly hearsay," he said as he came to a realization. Hearing Miss Bingley's disgust, he quickly continued before she could reply. "While it is true that there were many present the night Wickham's misdeeds became known, only a handful of them are in attendance tonight. The majority of those there were Meryton's shopkeepers and tradesmen, and as such, their standing in life far below that of a gentlewoman. Now who is to say that the officers here have not exaggerated the story in an attempt to ease their own guilt or to express their anger with Wickham? I believe many of them had lost some money to him that night."

"Mr. Darcy, surely you do not believe what you are saying. How is it that you are defending that man after all he has done to you?"

"You are mistaken if you believe I am defending Mr. Wickham, madam. I am simply stating my reasons for believing why Miss Elizabeth still favors her opinion of that man over me. You, more than anyone besides the lady herself, are aware of the fact that I have given her no reason to trust me. I was abominably rude and insulted her before we had even been introduced and have failed to apologize directly to her." With a pang of regret, he thought of his apology in the library remembering that she believed that moment to be nothing more than a hallucination. "We are both very aware of the great injustice of my slight as I was most incorrect in the choice of my words at the assembly. She is a very fine young woman," he finished fixing a steely glare upon Miss Bingley in the hope that she would not disagree with his words.

"Indeed you are correct, Mr. Darcy." Miss Bingley replied with a forced smile that appeared more like a grimace.

"I thank you, Miss Bingley," he said with a victorious smile.

"It is for this reason that I remain confused, sir. She still thinks ill of you and well of Mr. Wickham, yet you seem to approve."

"Again I marvel at how much I disagree with you. I do not approve of her opinions, but I do understand them. Would you be willing to listen to others vilify a man who had flattered you in favor of a man who insulted you? The truth is a moot point to her. She is willing to believe there has been some gross misunderstanding and hopes that what is said regarding Mr. Wickham is false. It is her loyalty to those she considers her friends that I admire and applaud her for."

Pulling out a chair, he indicated Miss Bingley should sit while ignoring the anger emanating from her. With a short bow, he informed her that he would be happy to secure her a plate before joining her. As he walked away, he noticed Mr. Bennet nearby contemplating him with great curiosity. With a smile and a nod in the gentleman's direction, Darcy was pleased to see the astonishment cross the older man's face. With a nod in return, Mr. Bennet turned to his oblivious wife nearby to escort her to her own seat. Chuckling, Darcy continued on hoping that Mr. Bennet had overheard his conversation with Miss Bingley. Extra allies in his fight for Miss Elizabeth's heart would be most appreciated.

As he worked to prepare a plate, Darcy suddenly scrunched up his nose as an unpleasant odor assaulted his senses. He was shocked to turn and discover the clergyman who had arrived with the Bennet's bowing to him in a most flourishing manner. With a quick movement, Darcy barely managed to move the arm holding Miss Bingley's plate out of the way as the clergyman quickly rose from his bow almost knocking the plate from Darcy's hand. Astonished, Darcy watched as the clergyman began to address him.

"Mr. Darcy, sir, I humbly apologize for my oversight in not having approached you sooner. As the esteemed nephew of my patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, it should have been my great honor to attend to you at the beginning of this humble gathering. I can only plead to your condescension and benevolence for I have only just discovered you to be related to that great lady. It is therefore my greatest pleasure, sir, to inform you that her ladyship and her daughter were enjoying the best of health yesterday se'nnight."

Unable to hide his growing wonder and disgust at the man's impropriety, Darcy forced down his fear and concern. It was enough that he had an unknown magical being bent on keeping him apart from Iliana, but now he must deal with a man who had some connection with both Lady Catherine and the Bennet's. He knew that although she was as mortal as could be, she was indeed quite powerful and not a force to be reckoned with. Needing to know the man's exact connection with his aunt, he hesitantly asked who he had the pleasure of addressing.

"I am William Collins, sir, and I have had the great pleasure to have been so distinguished by your estimable relation as to receive the living at Hunsford."

"I must commend you then, Mr. Collins. Hunsford is indeed a most valuable gift."

"Oh! Indeed it is, sir. And her ladyship has been most affable and condescending. There is nothing to be done that she does not see fit to instruct me on personally. I find myself quite blessed. I could not ask for a kinder soul or a grander personage to bestow such an honor on me."

"I am well convinced of Lady Catherine's discernment as to be certain that she could never bestow a favor unworthily. Now I understand, Mr. Collins, that the living has only recently been given. I find myself quite surprised to discover that my aunt would have allowed you to travel so far from Kent so soon."

"Your concern does you much credit, Mr. Darcy. Indeed I am here under the strict guidance of Lady Catherine. You see, Mr. Darcy, I am cousin to Mr. Bennet and upon his death will inherit all of Longbourn. Although I do not wish ill upon the man, I had a great desire to meet the man to whom I will one day owe my fortune as he and my father were not on the best of terms. I believe it is my duty as a clergyman to heal any breach in my family sir so that I can better lead Lady Catherine's flock. In fact, it was her suggestion that I extend my olive branch so far as to offer for one of my fair cousins. Indeed, I believe her ladyship will be very pleased with my choice of bride."

If Darcy had thought he could not be further disgusted by the man in front of him, his previous speech had proven him wrong. To openly admit such a relationship with the Bennet's to a stranger was appalling to him. To further claim that he had been all but ordered to take one of the Bennet ladies to wife was beyond improper. As he watched Mr. Collins turn and ogle Miss Elizabeth, it took all of Darcy's resolve to keep himself from strangling the man on the spot.

Dread suddenly filled his chest, overwhelming his senses. Darcy had not been unaware of Mr. Collins' attentions towards his beloved, yet had not understood the meaning behind them. Although he knew Miss Elizabeth would not willingly accept anyone's hand in marriage besides his, Darcy was concerned that she might be convinced by both her mother and the personage watching them to accept the clergyman in order to protect her family. The thought of his Iliana as wife to any other man nearly made him sick with rage and despair.

Forcing a small smile upon his face, Darcy hesitantly asked Mr. Collins if he was to wish him joy. Upon hearing him reply in the negative, Darcy heaved a sigh of relief not failing to miss Mr. Collins assurance that he would be blessed with her hand in acceptance on the morrow. With a curt nod, Darcy begrudgingly wished the clergyman luck in his endeavors, and quickly returned to filling Miss Bingley's plate.

Worry consumed him as he watched the clergyman try to sidle up to Miss Elizabeth as she took her place at the table with her parents. Knowing what he now knew, Darcy was unwilling to stand by and watch the ridiculous Mr. Collins' attempt to win his beloved's favor. With a smirk, he send a tendril of magic floating towards the clergyman bestowing upon the man the thought that it was necessary to pay proper respect to his hosts for the night as to do anything less would offend Lady Catherine.

Pleased, Darcy watched the relief spread across Miss Elizabeth and Mr. Bennet's faces as Mr. Collins bowed to them and walked over to take the seat next to Miss Bingley against her protests. With a satisfied smile, Darcy presented Miss Bingley with her plate, and excused himself quickly as he saw that she was being properly attended. He was well aware of the fact that he would pay dearly for his actions later; however, nothing was of greater import to him than securing Miss Elizabeth's safety and freedom from Mr. Collins.

As he prepared his own plate, Darcy watched Miss Elizabeth's table, using his magic to prevent anyone else from taking the last seat there. Already the neighborhood had improved their opinion of him, yet he knew that the ones who would be the most influential in keeping her free from her cousin still held their doubts. He was determined by the end of the evening that her family, if not the lady herself, would think well of him. He knew he had already secured Miss Bennet's good opinion, and hopefully that of her father; yet uncertainty was not a commodity he was willing to take.

Seating himself across and one seat down from Miss Elizabeth, he bestowed a small smile upon her as she gaped at him in horror and astonishment. Looking next to him, he was pleased to witness Mr. Bennet's amusement at the exchange. Knowing that he needed to secure Mr. Bennet's approval, Darcy took the opportunity to engage the man in conversation.

Having never conversed with him before, Darcy was pleased to discover Mr. Bennet was a well read man with an acerbic wit. The gentleman was similar in demeanor to his second eldest daughter and Darcy knew immediately that she was his favorite. With a glance towards his beloved, he saw her watching the conversation between him and her father with confusion. Smiling he nodded at her to which she blushed, whether in anger or embarrassment he was unsure, before she quickly turned her attention to her mother who sat next to her and across from him.

Glancing back at her father, Darcy did not fail to notice a glimmer of delight in his eyes as well as his chuckle hidden by a cough.

"Mr. Darcy," he said in a low voice so as not to be overheard, "would I be correct in assuming that you disagree with your own remarks made at the Meryton assembly?"

"You would indeed be correct, sir."

"Very well then, may I make a suggestion before I ask a favor of you?" Seeing Darcy nod his head with brows knit in confusion, Mr. Bennet continued. "My Lizzy is a stubborn young woman, and although you have already made great strides in improving your reputation with the neighborhood, she will not be easily won over. While she may be my favorite daughter, she does not hold such distinction with her mother. She has lived her entire life in Jane and Lydia's shadows. If you wish to impress her, you must not allow her to live under any other shadows."

Quirking his head, Darcy considered the man seated beside him. "I am afraid I do not follow you sir, yet I can see by the look in your eye that this is a riddle I must solve for myself. Am I correct?"

"Yes," was the simple answer.

"Then I thank you, sir, and I can assure you most gratefully that I will carefully consider your words and heed them to the best of my abilities. Now I believe there was a favor you wished to ask of me?"

Nodding his head in approval, Mr. Bennet leaned in closer. "Indeed there is. Would it be too much trouble to ask you to visit with me tomorrow, sir? I am afraid that my daughters have all found the company of Mr. Wickham very pleasing. I have not met the man myself and am quite disturbed by what I have heard of him tonight. I understand you to know the gentleman better than anyone else in the area, and as such, would appreciate any assistance you might offer me in protecting my daughters from the man and others like him. However, I understand if you believe me to be imposing on you. I would not wish to pry into your personal affairs."

"I assure you, Mr. Bennet, it would be no imposition. I would hate to see your daughters come to harm from such a man. I am to call upon Colonel Forster tomorrow morning to discuss the same thing. Would the afternoon be convenient for you?"

"That would be most suitable, sir. I have no fixed plans on the morrow so rest assured you may call whenever you are finished with the Colonel. I thank you sir for your willingness."

At that moment, the peace was interrupted by a trill from Mrs. Bennet. "Oh yes my dear! I could not be happier for my dearest Jane. Imagine how wonderful it will be for her to be settled in as Netherfield's mistress a mere three miles from her home. And such a charming young man; rich too, to be sure. I just knew my dear Jane will do well."

Darcy watched amazed as the woman seated across from him continued to praise Bingley and express her great expectation for a marriage between him and her eldest daughter. Next to him, Mr. Bennet leaned back in his seat, sipping his wine, as he listened to his wife with a small smile playing upon his lips. Seated next to her mother, Miss Elizabeth tried valiantly to discourage her from such a topic, yet Mrs. Bennet was determined to share her good fortune with Lady Lucas. Unsure what to do, Darcy shuffled uncomfortably in his seat as he attempted to ignore the conversation.

At one point, Mrs. Bennet leaned in towards her friend and in a loud voice claimed that Jane's advantageous marriage would be the key to throwing her other daughters in the path of other rich men. By this point, Mr. Bennet was chuckling openly, while his daughter, red with anger and embarrassment, whispered to her mother that perhaps she should not discuss such topic in front of Mr. Darcy, not realizing that he could hear her whispered entreaties.

"What is Mr. Darcy to me, pray, that I should be afraid of him?" Mrs. Bennet asked as her voice grew in volume. "I am sure we owe him no such particular civility as to be obliged to say nothing he may not like to hear."

Shooting a nervous glance towards Darcy, Miss Elizabeth leaned in closer to her mother. "For heaven's sake, madam, speak lower. What advantage can it be to you to offend Mr. Darcy? You will never recommend yourself to his friend by so doing."

"Oh! Nonsense Lizzy. How you try my nerves so. Indeed there can be nothing improper in my expressing myself thus. It is plain to see for everyone that we shall have a wedding breakfast here at Netherfield before long and if Mr. Darcy is too proud to see that then we are better off without him. Now, Lady Lucas," she said as she returned her attention to her companion, "have you noticed how much his sisters favor my Jane? Yes indeed they quite adore her and seek the connection most adamantly."

Frustrated with her mother for speaking so in public, and with her father for failing to curb his wife's tongue, Miss Elizabeth looked to Darcy expecting to see indignant contempt written upon his every feature. She was instead arrested by the sight of him biting his lower lip in an attempt to keep himself from laughing all while shaking his head, eyes closed. Feeling the gaze of his beloved upon him, Darcy opened his eyes to see her staring him in astonished horror, causing him to almost lose his composure completely.

After taking a deep breath, he was able to bestow a smile upon her and mouth "do not worry on my behalf" to her further astonishment. With a large grin, he looked at her mother, then back to her while rolling his eyes in exasperation. Although he was originally appalled at Mrs. Bennet's lack of proper decorum as she spoke of an engagement that had yet to happen, he had realized during her interaction with her daughter that she had simply partaken of too much punch. After all the ridiculousness and frustration of the evening thus far, he found that instead of being upset by this revelation, it made the whole event quite humorous.

In trying to convey his feelings to Miss Elizabeth, he failed to notice her father's watchful eyes upon them both. After seeing Darcy roll his eyes at her mother, she had barely managed to conceal her own mirth at his sentiments whereas her father failed completely. Having just taken a sip of wine when he saw the exchange, Mr. Bennet's laughter at the antics of the two soon turned to a coughing fit. Ironically enough, it was his amusement at the reactions of the younger people at the table that finally stopped his wife's diatribe which was the culprit of the whole incident.

Clapping Mr. Bennet on the back to help him gain some air, Darcy was pleased to see Miss Elizabeth's concern for her father. Having conversed with the gentleman, Darcy was aware that he cared deeply for his second eldest daughter; and now he had seen proof of her sincere care for him. Throughout their many lives, Iliana had never had a good relationship with her parents, most very similar to the one she shared with her father, Varen. Instead she had always been blessed with aunts and uncles, or a family friend to care for her. However, he was pleased to find her truly cared for by at least one of her parents for the first time.

Bingley's sudden call for music at the end of supper brought Darcy out of his reverie. Miss Mary immediately made her way towards the pianoforte after the request had been made and Darcy watched dread cross the features of his beloved.

Although he had heard her play at Lucas Lodge, and therefore was not expecting a superb performance, he had at least expected a decent one; yet he was to be disappointed. Miss Mary's powers were by no means fitted for such a display as her voice was weak and her manner affected. Being so attuned to the music of the earth as he was, Darcy struggled to prevent his discomfort with her performance from showing.

Looking across the table, Darcy watched as Miss Elizabeth tried in vain to signal her younger sister in an attempt to end her display early. When her attempts failed, she soon attempted to enlist her father's help. With a large sigh, he finally gave in after the second song as his daughter was preparing a third piece.

"That will do extremely well, child," Mr. Bennet said loudly for all to hear. "You have delighted us long enough. Let the other young ladies have time to exhibit."

Darcy watched as Miss Elizabeth's face fell with dismay towards her father. Her gaze then turned to her younger sister, who attempted to act as though she had not heard her father's poorly chosen words. Hurrying from the pianoforte, she headed towards a corner of the room where she might be left alone. Without saying a word, Miss Elizabeth stood to follow her sister. After but a brief moment, she left her younger sister to join her elder sister at the punch table.

It was at this unfortunate moment that Mr. Collins decided to bless the room with his opinion regarding music. "If I were so fortunate as to be able to sing," he said, "I should have great pleasure, I am sure, in obliging the company with an air; for I consider music as a very innocent diversion, and perfectly compatible with the profession of a clergyman. I do not mean however to assert that we can be justified in devoting too much of our time to music, for there are certainly other things to be attended to. The rector of a parish has much to do in the first place, he must make such an agreement for tithes as may be beneficial to himself and not offensive to his patron. He must write his own sermons; and the time that remains will not be too much for his parish duties, and the care and improvement of his dwelling, which he cannot be excused from making as comfortable as possible. And I do not think it of light importance that he should have attentive and conciliatory manners towards everybody, especially towards those to whom he owes his preferment. I cannot acquit him of that duty; nor could I think well of the man who would omit an occasion of testifying his respect towards anybody connected with the family."

Disgusted, Darcy watched as Mr. Collins finished his speech with a bow directed towards him. He knew his aunt loved to surround herself with those who would have no scruples in pandering to those of higher standing, yet Darcy was now convinced that she had finally outdone herself. Mr. Collins was indeed a rare specimen. To share so openly his duties while demeaning others for their pursuits in accomplishments was unpardonable, only to then praise him for his high standing in society. For a man who claimed to be humble, Darcy thought he still had much to learn.

Before long, many began to adjourn once more to the ballroom and the dancing reconvened. Having already danced more than was his wont, Darcy was content to stand off to the side and enjoy the discussions of several local gentlemen. He soon found many seeking his opinion regarding their farming practices after learning that he preferred to oversee his fields personally instead of leaving everything to his steward.

Enjoying himself, Darcy found his attention invariably wandering towards his beloved. He was disappointed to see her standing off to the side with Mr. Collins while watching the dancers with envy. Just as he was about to excuse himself to head her way, he watched as an officer approached her only to see her shake her head while bestowing a loathsome look upon her cousin. Oblivious to Miss Elizabeth's distress, Mr. Collins attempted to sidle closer to her as he dismissed the officer from her company.

Angry that because of that man his beloved would be unable to enjoy the remainder of the evening, Darcy resolved that he must do something to help her. He contemplated joining the pair, yet realized that his company would only increase her vexation not lessen it. Instead he noticed her anxious glances towards her younger sister and decided that he could certainly endure one more dance for her.

As the current set ended, Darcy excused himself and wandered towards Miss Mary. Upon approaching her, he saw fear and apprehension in her eyes. Wishing to put her at ease, he bestowed upon her a gentle smile as he requested her hand for the next set. Shocked at his appeal, she stuttered a kind reply before barely managing to accept his arm.

Leading her to the dance floor, Darcy attempted to engage her in conversation, and was disappointed to receive only monosyllabic answers in return. As the dance began, he was surprised to discover that she was quite adept at the exercise and was quick to tell her so.

"You are too kind, Mr. Darcy," she replied.

"I speak as I find, Miss Bennet."

"'A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape'*"

"You believe my words to be false Miss Bennet?" Darcy asked with brows raised in amusement.

"I simply do not understand why you must flatter that which is untrue."

Confused as to how he could help this young woman in an attempt to please his beloved, Darcy remained silent for several minutes in contemplation. After some time, he noticed Miss Mary's apprehension had grown in the silence and she seemed unsure of him once more.

"I find myself amazed at you, Miss Bennet," he finally said with a teasing tone. "For one who is so eager to perform before others, I had assumed you to be more accepting of praise."

"Too much praise, sir, can lead to pride which is a very common failing I believe. By all that I have ever read, I am convinced that it is very common indeed; that human nature is particularly prone to it, and that there are very few of us who do not cherish a feeling of self-complacency on the score of some quality or other, real or imaginary. And if pride is not carefully watched, it can turn to vanity. A person may be proud without being vain, although the two do go together despite their differences. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, and vanity to what we would have others think of us. I do not seek praise as I do not wish to appear vain, sir. I perform because it is expected of a young lady of my standing."

Darcy stared in bewilderment at the young woman in front of him. Despite her words to the contrary, he felt as though her sole purpose in performing was to seek the attention she lacked at home. Wishing to further probe her without causing her distress, he carefully contemplated his next words.

"I cannot believe you only perform because that is what is expected of you. You play with such proficiency that you must find some pleasure in the amusement. Else why would you play at all?"

"I fail to understand what pleasure has to do with young ladies accomplishments, sir."

"My younger sister cannot be persuaded to perform for others although she plays quite as proficiently as you."

"Then why does she play," Miss Mary asked as confusion clouded her face.

"She plays several hours every day because she enjoys the amusement. She has a passion for music that brings such joy to our lives and our homes. Although I have heard many masters perform over the years, few have evoked such emotions in me as she does."

"While I understand playing with such emotion may be acceptable among the ton, it behooves us all to avoid engaging in pleasures as passion is the tool of the evil one."

"You are correct; pleasure and passion when used for the wrong purposes can lead to evil purposes. Yet they are also tools used for great purposes. If it were not for the passions of the composers, we would not have such wonderful music at our disposal. Also many of the greatest sermons I have had the pleasure of hearing were given by those who were passionate about serving the Lord." Darcy watched as he saw comprehension dawning upon her face.

"I...I had not thought of it that way, sir."

"Please do not think I was reproving or criticizing you, Miss Bennet. I was merely surprised by your admissions." Looking down he saw tears gathering in her eyes and feared that his attempts to help her had gone awry. "Miss Bennet please, I beg of you to forgive me for my callous words. Believe me that I would not wish any distress upon you. I did not mean to hurt you."

"No, Mr. Darcy, I must thank you. I must seem a fool to you."

Darcy quickly reassured her that he did not think so, and inquired as to how he could ease her mind. "Answer me honestly, sir. I know that I am not as beautiful or as witty as my elder sisters, nor as lively as my younger. I am loath to admit that I have sought to distinguish myself through my playing and my reading, yet I see now that I have only further alienated myself. What can I do to improve myself in a way that is agreeable to others?"

With a gentle smile, Darcy looked down into her insecure eyes and said, "promise me from this moment on that you will only sit down to play the pianoforte because you want to play, not because you feel you need to. Also, I believe that you might find a willing listener in your elder sister, Miss Elizabeth. You should take her into your confidence."

"Lizzy? No, sir, I know she has no interest in me. She and Jane are much too close to include me in their numbers."

"Perhaps you can then explain the heartache I witnessed crossing her face on your behalf after your father's careless words."

For the first time that evening, he witnessed a true smile upon her face as hope lit her eyes. "Truly?" Seeing his nod she continued. "I cannot thank you enough, sir. Miss Darcy is truly blessed to have an elder brother such as you."

The rest of the set continued in playful chatter as the two reveled in their newfound camaraderie. Darcy was pleased to discover that when not spouting sermons and morals, Miss Mary was quite clever and well read. Looking over towards his beloved who was watching the two with a curious eye, he knew that the young lady he was dancing with would soon flourish under her sisters guiding love.

As the dance ended, Miss Mary cheerfully accepted his arm as he escorted her from the floor. As she curtsied in farewell, she paused before walking away. "You mentioned earlier sir that you were watching my elder sister, Elizabeth. Have you had a change of heart since the assembly, sir?"

Chuckling he replied, "Indeed I most definitely have, Miss Bennet."

"Good," was her simple reply before she left him to join her cousin and sister, a smile upon her face.

The rest of the evening passed without much event, although Darcy was upset that he would not be granted another set with Miss Elizabeth. Yet he found luck on his side as the Bennet's were the last family to depart a full quarter hour after the rest had left.

Darcy stood to the side as he watched Bingley ignore all the others for the companionship of Miss Bennet, while Mrs. Bennet and her two youngest daughters continued to praise Bingley's sisters for the success of their ball.

When the carriage finally arrived at the front of the house, Darcy offered to assist the ladies in while Bingley bid farewell to his angel. Miss Elizabeth was the last to board before her sister, and as such, Darcy took the opportunity to hold on to her hand a little longer than propriety allowed. Confused at the action, she looked into his eyes and he was able to bestow a loving smile and a small nod upon her. Hesitantly she returned a smile, before he released her. Stepping aside he allowed Bingley to help Miss Bennet in, and together the two friends stood upon the top steps watching the family depart.

"I regret that I was unable to accept Mrs. Bennet's invitation to dine tomorrow as I must leave for town in a few hours. I shall be gone only a few days, yet I find myself already missing Hertfordshire," Bingley said with a hint of longing in his voice.

Looking upon his friend, Darcy was pleased to see a sincere smile. "Well then, my friend, I suggest you complete your business as quickly as possible so that you may return soon."

"I believe I shall, Darcy. I find I am loath to be away from her for long."

Laughing, Darcy clasped his friends shoulder and began to lead him inside. "I cannot tell you how happy I am to hear that," he said with sincere relief. He knew that Iliana would forever regret leaving behind a family unable to support themselves if the two of them once again failed to break the curse. Knowing that her dearest sister had won the heart of his closest friend brought great joy to him. "I hope I shall be soon wishing you joy, Bingley."

The shock that spread across Bingley's face caused Darcy to laugh harder and was soon joined by his friend. "Thank you Darcy."

"Glad to be of service, old man. Now what do you say to retiring? I would not wish to delay your departure by keeping you up any later."

"Very well Darcy. Good night! I shall see you upon my return."

"That you shall, Bingley."

With a firm hand shake, the two friends departed at the top of the stairs for their separate chambers. Upon reaching his room, Darcy quickly prepared himself for bed and collapsed upon the bed with exhaustion. He was unused to such exertion at balls, and this evening had been more eventful than most. Settling under the covers, Darcy contemplated on the many unusual happenings of the evening. Although it had not gone as he had hoped, he knew without a doubt that he was no longer thought of as such a proud and disagreeable man, and had several allies who were close to Miss Elizabeth. With a contented sigh, he closed his eyes as he relived the moment of their dance when her eyes had shone with love for him.


*Proverbs 19:5 KJV

AN: I regret that it has once again taken me so long to post. The blame this time, however, cannot be laid at my feet. I was forced not once, but twice to rewrite the majority of this chapter as the program I use on my tablet failed to save this chapter not just once, but TWICE over the past 2 days. Anyone who has ever had to rewrite something I hope can understand how infuriating that can truly be. Has anyone else ever had this issue with Polaris Office 5? It was a first for me, and I regularly use the automatic save feature. Needless to say, I believe I will be trying a new program from now on. Does anyone have anything either good or bad to say about OfficeSuite? Any other suggestions? Let me know via a PM as I do not wish reviews to be anything other than opinions or thoughts on my story. Thank you!

Well until next time, Happy Reading! - Allahteeah