Chapter 31
"I have done it, William!"
Darcy jumped when his study door flew open without warning, and he scrambled to cover the papers he was writing on as Georgiana breezed in without a care in the world. Normally he would have scolded her for her interruption, but the smile she wore was contagious, and he soon found himself grinning in return. He had not seen her smile so since before Ramsgate, and it made him feel a happiness that had been missing for too long. Fitzwilliam had been correct in suggesting they recruit Georgiana to the cause, he thought, as she strode towards him. Although still quiet among those whom she was unfamiliar with, her overall confidence had grown in the two months since his return from Rosings.
"Oh William," she gushed, "I have done it!"
His smile grew wider as she repeated herself and he asked "Have you managed to finally subdue the Viper?"
She rolled her eyes in response before plopping herself most unladylike into one of the chairs before his desk reminding him that while she was maturing, she was still barely out of childhood. "That would be a feat indeed, but I fear an impossible one. I have, however, learned to play my flute just right and have her following every suggestion I make. Now I, dear brother, have secured an invitation to dinner next Tuesday for both of us."
"That is wonderful, Dearest!" Darcy cried, his entire face lighting up with excitement. Weekly she, in company with Mrs. Annesley, had called upon Miss Bingley. She had also endured several shopping trips with the lady. Usually upon her return home, she would immediately retire to her room, claiming a headache, then berate him at dinner for "forcing" her to spend time with "that snake." Both siblings had quickly latched onto Fitzwilliam's nickname of "the Viper" for the woman, and rarely referred to her by name. Shaking his head in amusement he continued, "You have done very well, and I am deeply indebted to you."
"Indeed you are, brother," Georgiana replied with a satisfied air. She then reached into her pocket and withdrew a folded sheet of paper. Standing to offer it to him she said, "Here you will find a list of new music sheets I would like, as well as the name of the warehouse where you may purchase the pale blue silk I have long admired to send to my modiste so that I may have a new gown to wear to the production of Herr Mozart's 'Die Zauberflöte' that will open in three weeks." Ignoring the rise of his eyebrows, she continued on. "Of course, if I am to attend such a public event during the height of the season without having been presented at court, it would be best if I had new shoe roses, gloves, cloak and hat to match my new gown as I would not wish to give the wrong impression to those whose assistance and opinions I plan to seek when I have my coming out. I would buy it all myself, but I would hate to waste my pin money on all that as I had planned on using those funds to purchase some new novels for myself."
Darcy scanned the list as his brows rose higher. After reading through it twice, he looked up to gauge her seriousness, only to see her raise her chin in determination. However, he noticed that she was unable to keep her hands still as they gripped her skirts, a sure sign that she was nervous. So, with a sigh, he set the list down and nodded his agreement. Jumping up she squealed and ran around the desk to embrace him.
"Oh, thank you! Thank you, William!"
Embracing her back, he chuckled as he replied, "I should be the one thanking you, Dearest. You have achieved more success than Richard and I combined. It could not have been easy dealing with her. I know what we asked of you was not something you were comfortable doing, and I cannot begin to express my appreciation. Therefore, I can certainly see that you are handsomely rewarded."
Even though the smile never left her face, she looked down and began fiddling with her skirts again. "I will admit that I was so nervous I could not stop shaking. I am amazed she did not notice how often I nearly spilled my tea. And then I was so afraid of failing you, that I almost forgot the speech I had practiced most faithfully with Richard last evening. But in the end, she was thrilled at the insinuation that it was more than Mr. Bingley's company you missed."
Darcy shuddered. He had argued extensively with Fitzwilliam over using such a tactic, but his cousin had won out as Georgiana was quite in agreement. It was a move Fitzwilliam had tried many times to convince him to use, but he was hesitant to do so. He was determined that they would be able to get through to Bingley eventually without it, but they were now halfway through the season and Fitzwilliam refused to let him use magic to influence the situation. Therefore, if he did not make any headway soon, it would be too late.
Their plan was simple, or so it had seemed. He would seek out Bingley while Georgiana would seek out the younger sister. Together, the siblings would gradually wear the man down, until he was willing to listen to Darcy's apology - no matter how undeserved it was - and accept their invitation to Pemberley at the end of the season. During that visit, Darcy would convince him that Netherfield truly was the perfect opportunity to establish himself as a landed gentleman, and secure an invitation to join him before the end of the summer.
Miss Bingley had been quick to reestablish the connection, but Bingley had surprised them all by remaining resolutely firm in his avoidance. It was the first time Darcy had seen his friend so stubborn and strong-willed. Had not his happiness with Miss Elizabeth been at stake, not to mention his very life, he would have admired Bingley for his gumption. As it was, he had grown frustrated that the man had finally decided to take a stand for himself in life. Firmly set against reconciliation, Bingley had forbidden his sister to visit Darcy House, and refused to allow Darcy admittance to his house. It was the first time in their lives that he had ever forbidden her anything, and with such fierceness, that Miss Bingley had not dared to disobey. Therefore, Fitzwilliam argued that only the strong inference that she had a chance to become Mistress of Pemberley would induce her to act against her brother's wishes. Darcy regretfully admitted, in light of Georgiana's success, that his cousin had been correct.
"While I am not happy to leave such an impression on her, I thank you again for your efforts."
Georgiana smiled, "Just promise me Miss Elizabeth is worth it and I will be glad to continue in any way you need."
Smiling softly, Darcy grabbed her hand. "I promise you that she is worth it all and so much more. Elizabeth is a jewel beyond compare."
Gasping quietly, Georgiana stared at her brother as he turned from her to gather up the many scattered papers on his desk. Ever since he had returned from Rosings and shared the tale of his failed courtship, the name Miss Elizabeth had been spoken quite frequently between them. This was the first time, however, that she had ever heard him refer to her so informally. It was as if finally overcoming that first hurdle back to her had made her more of a reality. She wondered if he had even realized what he had said and the significance of it all. She debated whether or not she should share this insight with him, but was soon distracted by his actions.
Although he had done his best to shield the papers from her view, she saw several names and dates, accompanied by copious notes. Unable to catch a full glimpse of any of the notes, she watched as he quickly finished piling the papers up and shoved them in a drawer. He then pulled a small key out of his pocket and locked it.
"William, what is that project you and Richard have been so focused on?"
Darcy pulled the key out of the lock. He then quickly placed a spell on the drawer that would prohibit any attempt to open it by someone other than himself before placing the key back in his pocket. It was then that he finally looked up at Georgiana, and saw her curious gaze at the drawer. With Fitzwilliam aware of the truth, he had found it increasingly harder to keep his true identity from her. Yet the two cousins were still of one mind that it was best she not know at this time. She was struggling enough in her role with the Bingley's, that they did not wish to add to her stress by suggesting that his life depended on their success. No, he reminded himself, she cannot be told.
"Richard suggested that I document my 'courtship' with Miss Elizabeth, in the hopes that I will discover any other grudge she might hold against me. By doing so, I will be better able to focus on improving myself so that when we meet again, she will see that I have taken her accusations to heart and have striven to improve myself." He breathed a sigh of relief when she seemed to accept his half-truth with a nod.
In truth, Fitzwilliam had actually suggested he document every significant event from every lifetime; what events caused their awakenings, family dynamics, and causes of death were just the beginning. He was hopeful that by doing do, they might be able to discover any patterns from the lives where they were closer to success than others. It was also to be hoped that it would help trigger his memories of that last fateful day as Eavan and Iliana. So far, they had met with little success, but they both refused to give up the effort.
"I believe that to be a wonderful idea, brother. If ever you decide that a woman's point of view would be beneficial, let me know and I would be happy to assist you."
"Thank you, Georgiana! I will be certain to notify you immediately," he replied as he stood, then bent down to kiss the top of her head. "Now, how about you go and order us some tea while I write a note to the warehouse you indicated. I shall join you in the parlor shortly." With another squeal of delight, she gave him a quick hug before practically skipping from the room. He shook his head in amusement before taking his seat once more.
As promised, he quickly wrote a note ordering enough of the silk for two complete dresses. He then wrote a second note to Fitzwilliam before summoning the butler to have a footman dispatched with the messages immediately. He hoped that Fitzwilliam would be able to get away from his duties long enough to join him for a short while that evening to discuss the best way to approach dinner the following night. While in the past he thought he had known Bingley well enough to handle him on his own, he rather wished to corroborate with Fitzwilliam as he had been far more successful in this campaign than he had himself. This upcoming dinner was of the utmost importance, and he could not mess it up.
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"My dear Mr. Darcy! Miss Darcy! How delighted we are that you could join us!"
Darcy fought hard to keep from cringing at the sound of Miss Bingley's strident voice. Before he had fully risen from his bow in greeting, he felt his arm being grabbed as her bony hand rested on his forearm. Glancing to his side, he swallowed the bile rising in his throat as she batted her eyes and stuck her chest out provocatively while offering him the most simpering smile he had ever seen. Ignoring the cough Georgiana had employed to hide a snicker, he forced a small smile on his face in return.
"I must say the pleasure is all ours, Miss Bingley," he ground out trying to keep his voice neutral. "The company of a true friend can never be undervalued." Having glanced across the room to Bingley as he spoke the last, he had not failed to notice Miss Bingley's growing smile as well as the tightening of her grip on his arm. Bingley, however, merely glowered in return. Holding back a sigh, he turned back to the sister. "Indeed, I cannot thank you enough for your kind invitation this evening. I know your friendship with Georgiana has meant a great deal these last weeks and I am eager to see it progress further. With your extensive experience from the last several social seasons, I can think of no one who could better help her understand that not all in the ton have her best interests at heart. I am determined that she is as prepared as possible to deal with those persons before her coming out."
Georgiana was unable to contain her gasp at those words as Miss Bingley quickly released his arm and strode around him to wrap an arm around his sister's shoulder's. "Indeed, sir," Miss Bingley crooned as she guided Georgiana towards the settee and placed her between herself and Mrs. Hurst. "We would be most happy to continue our friendship and guide Miss Darcy towards those who truly care for her."
Ignoring the daggers shooting from Georgiana's eyes, he chuckled to himself at the knowledge that Miss Bingley had completely missed his veiled insult towards her. He then took advantage of the opportunity to finally greet the others in the room. Mrs. Hurst's greeting was perfunctory as she was more interested in conversing with Georgiana while it was obvious her husband was already well in his cups. It was then that he finally turned his full attention towards his host for the evening.
Seeing the glint of anger in Bingley's eyes showing that he understood what his sisters had not, Darcy was grateful that Fitzwilliam's plan had been executed as easily as it had been. The Colonel had suggested that he must do all he could to escape Miss Bingley's immediate attention without causing direct insult to the lady herself. He must make it obvious to Bingley that he was determined to be civil in order to reestablish friendship while at the same time showing that his opinion of the sisters had not changed. As before, Darcy had been unsure as to the wisdom of this plan but relented when Fitzwilliam pointed out that all of Darcy's plans had thus far failed.
"Bingley," he intoned as he strode towards his friend with a hand extended. "I am glad to see you. It has been far too long since we were last in company."
"I dare say it has been," was the clipped reply. Sneering down at the proffered hand he continued, "although, others might argue that the separation has not been long enough."
Letting his hand drop down to his side, Darcy glanced towards the ladies and whispered conspiratorially, "I could not agree more!" Seeing Bingley's eyes narrow in warning, Darcy suppressed a sigh and spoke on in normal tones. "But I am glad to see you. I have missed your company these past months. Georgiana informs me you have been quite busy of late."
"Oh yes, Mr. Darcy," came the enthusiastic reply from the settee. "My brother is always coming and going these days, so much so that I can hardly keep up with him! I dare say he is determined to make the most of the season this year. Why just last night we attended Lady Malcolm's ball where Charles never stood still, always talking to one young lady or another. It was quite impossible to get him to attend to us long enough to be introduced to her Ladyship's son. It is a shame we did not see you there, for I am sure you would have ensured we were attended to."
"You are mistaken, Miss Bingley. Had I been there, I would have advised you to avoid Mr. Malcolm. His is not an acquaintance I would wish upon anyone."
Darcy struggled to keep a passive facade as he watched both sisters gasp dramatically with hands at their chests. Cries of "surely you jest" and "of what could you accuse such an amiable gentleman?" were quick to follow.
"I assure you, Mrs. Hurst, I am in earnest. I would not dare lead you astray." Turning to the younger sister, "as for amiability, there is a vast difference between appearances and character. I have known many who appear by every mean to be superior to all those around them in either look, dress, or comportment. However, the majority of these hide their hardened hearts and denigrate all those around them, believing themselves to be superior. Why should a matter of birth or wealth determine who is superior? No, I would much rather judge all on how they treat those whom society deems to be their lessers. I cannot abide being amongst those who will offer friendship one minute then the next turn around and criticize them simply for being lower in the eyes of society."
"Oh no indeed!" Miss Bingley spoke while tilting her head and fluttering her lashes at him, causing him to hide a grimace. "I find myself quite in agreement, sir. It is unpardonable for anyone to act in such a manner. I am grateful that you are not such a person, just as we are, and have warned us of Mr. Malcolm's unflattering company. If the opportunity should arise, I shall decline any introduction."
With a quirk of a smile, Darcy glanced at Georgiana who had pulled her handkerchief out to dab at her nose, but the sparkle in her eyes proved that she was simply trying to suppress her laughter at the hypocrisy. Allowing himself a slight chuckle, Darcy followed it by nodding his head towards Miss Bingley. "I thank you, madam, for the compliment you have paid me. However, I am not a saint. I have said my fair share of uncomplimentary untruths when I found myself in uncomfortable situations. Such comments have labeled me as arrogant and prideful much to my regret. Although I have striven to atone for such unkind remarks, one can never be too careful as once an opinion is formed of oneself, it is hard to reverse."
"You are too modest," Miss Bingley cooed in response. "I can honestly say I have never once heard you utter an unflattering remark that was not true. When one is as refined as you and your sister are, you are certain to come across many who truly are your lessers in every way. To point out those differences is simply stating truth and cannot be deemed unkind."
Taking a deep breath, he glanced once more at his own sister who was staring at Miss Bingley as though she had a piece of food dangling from her mouth. Quickly he sent a tendril of magic to gently nudge her jaw closed. Gratified that she had resumed a normal facade without any notice of his magic, he took another deep breath to ensure that his reply remained detached and calm.
"I cannot agree with you, Miss Bingley. When one has done nothing wrong, it is imperative that we treat them with respect at all times, especially when they are not present." Turning from the ladies, he addressed his next comment towards Bingley. "Take the Bennet family for example. It was unpardonable of me to insult Miss Elizabeth having never met her. Would you not agree, Bingley?"
Hisses sounded throughout the room as both Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst had sucked in quite a bit of air at the mention of the Bennet name. Bingley, however, radiated a mixture of fierce anger and hurt through his slitted eyes and stiff posture. With all eyes on the man, he was unable to do more than nod his agreement, allowing Darcy the chance to continue on.
"Indeed, I cannot excuse myself for such an unkind remark. That is was heard by the lady herself and shared amongst her neighbors was a well deserved punishment for myself. From that moment on, I was shunned and barely tolerated in the neighborhood. You on the other hand, Bingley, spoke to everyone and I never saw you leave a conversation with anything other than a kind word and a smile. Is it any wonder that your company was preferred over mine? I say no! In fact, I have striven to emulate you more in my interactions with others. I have no wish to insult another innocent."
Bingley's eyes widened in surprise, and Darcy was pleased to see the man's shoulders relax a fraction. A second later, however, he stiffened up again when Miss Bingley began her retaliation.
"Oh Mr. Darcy, I do pity you. To believe Miss Elizabeth was innocent shows how little you know about young ladies. Any proper young woman would have kept what she heard to herself rather than spread it around the neighborhood. It is insupportable to think that she is the reason you were shunned and disgraced. It was all the proof we needed to know that Meryton and its local families were not worth our notice. I am certain she would be celebrating if she was aware of your regret. It is mean of her to have occupied so much of your concern, she is undeserving of it. As for the rest of the family, they are not much better. I had considered Jane a dear friend, bestowing upon her my attention only to discover she was simply trying to use me to get to my dear brother. I cannot imagine what I could have possibly done to deserve her abuse. I always treated her most kindly."
"Yes, as did I! Such a shame so much ugliness lies behind that pretty face," Mrs. Hurst chimed in with a cautious glance at Bingley.
Seeing Bingley sneering again caused a surge of anger to rise in Darcy's own heart, and he wanted to smack some sense into the man. It was with great effort that he instead admitted to himself that this battle was lost and he would have to try again another day. With a quick glance of despair towards Georgiana who looked upon him apologetically, he steeled himself for the bitter taste of surrender.
"I cannot argue with you there, Mrs. Hurst. I have been most unfortunate to have met with several ladies who hide their ugliness in such a manner as you describe. I can only hope my true friends will continue to help me avoid such grasping arts."
"You can always count upon us," Miss Bingley preened.
From there the conversation turned to recent gatherings they had all attended, although Bingley only spoke when asked a direct question, and always answered in monosyllables. Watching him discreetly, Darcy was able to determine that none of the prior conversation had escaped his understanding, yet he seemed even more determined to disregard all that Darcy suggested. A quick glance at Georgiana showed that she had also come to the same conclusion. She sent him an apologetic smile before turning to respond to Mrs. Hursts description of the newest fashion of the season.
Shortly after this, the butler arrived to announce dinner. Before, he had even fully stood up, Darcy found his arm firmly grasped by none other than Miss Bingley. With resignation he watched Bingley offer his own arm to Georgiana before turning to accompany his hostess into the dining room. He was unsurprised to discover that despite her claims that his was to be an informal dinner amongst "dear friends", Miss Bingley had assigned seats, placing him next to her with Bingley at the other end of the table with Georgiana on his right. Next to Georgiana and across from him sat Mrs. Hurst while her husband took the chair between himself and Bingley. With a frustrated glance skyward, he realized that Miss Bingley arranged the seating in just such a way that would allow her to monopolize his attention for the entirety of dinner without appearing rude.
Throughout all five courses, he listened half-heartedly as his dinner companion droned on and on about many different topics as he again considered how this could be termed an informal dinner. She was convinced everyone else of their acquaintance was quite dull in comparison to himself, no one dressed as well or was as accomplished as Georgiana, and how she was so blessed to claim a close friendship with them both.
At the other end of the table, he was at least pleased to see that Bingley and Georgiana were having a delightful conversation as the man had finally relaxed. Since Miss Bingley's conversation required only the barest of nods and replies from him as she droned on, he was able to focus most of his attention on the other conversation. Georgiana was doing well to ease Bingley, and would occasionally attempt to mention something he had shared with her in his letters from Netherfield. Mrs. Hurst, however, appeared to be prepared for such a tactic and was always quick to redirect the conversation before Bingley would have an opportunity to reply. As the meal wore on, he could see Georgiana deflate in disappointment and had never been more grateful to hear Miss Bingley announce it was time for the ladies to withdraw for a time.
Once the ladies had left, Hurst collapsed back into his chair and immediately instructed a footman to bring a bottle of brandy from the cellar. Having watched the man down five glasses of wine during the meal, Darcy shuddered at the thought of him imbibing further. With a grimace he turned to Bingley only to see him reaching for the door to leave.
"Bingley, I was hoping I could…"
His words died in his throat as Bingley turned towards him with a scowl. "No Darcy. I may have been forced to welcome you into my home against my wishes, but I will not be forced to sit here and endure your company alone. Now you will excuse me while I attend to some business. Enjoy a drink with Hurst there and I shall rejoin the group after you return to the ladies in the parlor."
Truly defeated, Darcy balled his hands up to keep himself from acting rashly as he watched Bingley leave. It would have taken nothing to lock the door from his position, a simple wave of his left little finger would have done the trick. The temptation to also freeze time forcing Bingley to listen to him was stronger than it had ever been since that moment in Netherfield's library with Miss Elizabeth when he kissed her. Yet he did nothing.
Once the door had closed, Darcy slowly retook his seat and glanced over to his sole remaining companion. Oblivious to all that had just happened, Hurst's head was rolled to the side, his mouth open wide in a snore. Shaking his head disgustedly, Darcy slouched against the back of his chair and ran a hand through his hair in frustration. When the footman returned, Darcy accepted a small glass of brandy then excused the footman.
Alone with his thoughts, and a sleeping Hurst, Darcy pondered on all that had happened that evening. He was disappointed that he had been unsuccessful in his attempts to win Bingley over and began berating himself while wondering what had gone wrong.
"You must be patient, William," Fitzwilliam had said the prior evening. "He has been holding on to his anger for months now, encouraged on by your father. Considering it has taken this long to gain access to his company, you cannot be surprised if he does not wish to listen to anything you wish to say tomorrow."
"Bingley is too amiable to hold onto a grudge for long. Certainly once he sees me and we have a chance to talk all will be well."
"You are naïve if you truly think that," Fitzwilliam had scoffed. "Perhaps naïve is the wrong term; I believe stupid would be more apt."
"Richard," he had growled in response.
"No! I have said this before and I will say it again. Miss Elizabeth has been highly influenced by your father's magical interference. Bingley is full mortal and has never been exposed to magic before. Can you not imagine how much greater your father's influence on him would be than on her? He had no chance! The battle was lost before it had even begun."
"Well then I believe the solution would be an easy one: I will simply use my own magic to convince him. I may not be as powerful as my father, but I am certainly more than capable."
Fitzwilliam had thrown his hands up in the air at those words, standing up and walking several paces away from him before finally turning back. "Do you really think easy is the answer?" Shaking his head he had continued on. "We have had this discussion so many times, that I begin to wonder if you are even listening to me. You cannot use magic to solve this problem! You keep talking about a test, well to use magic on this test would be nothing short of cheating. If you use magic on Bingley, I can almost guarantee you will fail whatever this test is your father has created. It will take time. Tomorrow's dinner is only a small step, a first step. You will anger him further, and he will despise you for it. But it will open up an opportunity for you to extend an invitation to them to come join you and Georgiana here. After that, invite them on an outing or two. Before you know it, the Viper will be extending more invitations to you, and Bingley will eventually be so worn down that he will not be able to resist you anymore."
"Richard, I do not have time to take this slowly."
"No, William," Fitzwilliam had softly spoken, his hand on the doorknob as he had wished to return to Georgiana before she thought they had abandoned her. "You do not have time to mess this up. This is your only chance. Take it slowly, or lose it all. The choice is yours." Opening the door, he had paused and looked back towards the desk where Darcy still sat. "Just make sure it appears you are extending your own invitations to the Viper. Bingley will refuse if you ask him, she will not. Better yet, let us convince Georgiana to extend the invitation herself as then there will be no chance at a refusal."
A particularly loud snort from Hurst drew Darcy's thoughts back to the present. Looking down at the untouched glass on the table, he quickly emptied its contents before standing to rejoin the ladies. Loath as he was to admit it, Fitzwilliam was right, he had made Bingley angrier with him, but he had also seen a bit of uncertainty in his eyes. Perhaps this course would eventually work towards the end he hoped it would.
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"What about Paul Whiting? Only child, heir to a modest estate, awoken by a woman screaming?"
Darcy shuddered with the memory. "Unfortunately I was only fourteen at the time and the woman screaming was our new cook who had just cut off her thumb trying to behead a struggling chicken. Iliana was the scullery maid who had to clean up all the blood. Our relationship caused quite the scandal and I was nearly disinherited before we died."
"Yes, I can read all that," Fitzwilliam huffed while setting the paper holding all the details from that life down upon the desk. "I was simply curious about the scream. Why was it a scream that woke you up? Surely if you had come upon Iliana appearing as though dead, there might have been some screaming that final day from someone if not yourself."
Eyes screwed shut, Darcy searched for any hint of a memory, but could only recall the panicked face of the cook. Shoulders slumping he shook his head. "I am sure it was possible, but I cannot recall." Rubbing his forehead he sighed. "We have searched and gone over these notes so many times that I am beginning to wonder if I truly lived all these lives or if I am simply blessed with a wild imagination as to allow me to create a fantastical tale fit only for a novel."
"Perhaps I should have my father send out a notice saying he is looking for an author to hire. Better yet, there is a new author who simply goes by the name 'A Lady'. My mother has not stopped talking about the latest novel published by her as it is quite a favorite. I am certain between you and my father we can ferret out who this 'Lady' is and find out if she is willing to pen your story!"
Darcy was unable to contain his laughter, certain that had been Fitzwilliam's aim, and was soon joined by his cousin. "No need, Richard. I know my memory is not faulty in this particular instance, but it seems strange to discuss my past in such a detached way."
"Strange for you?" Fitzwilliam gawked. "Imagine how much harder it is for me to imagine my staid cousin doing such things as mucking a stall for pay rather than punishment, setting a table, or…" pausing he began to shuffle through the papers on the desk, letting out a small word of victory as he raised one up. "Or, how about trying to imagine you dressed in women's clothing, covered in paste while reciting Shakespeare lines for all of London to see!"
"Looking back that may not have been my finest lifetime, but at the time, it was a great honor to be on the stage. I cannot be blamed if women were forbidden from acting at the time."
"I would still like to see you model one of your costumes some day."
"Unfortunately that is one wish I will most certainly refuse you, no matter what method of coercion you attempt to employ."
The two chuckled in contentment as they each reached for a new sheet of paper to peruse. After a few moments of quiet contemplation, Fitzwilliam cleared his throat.
"How was the theater last evening. Georgiana informed me that it was everything she had hoped for and more. The music was masterful and the performance exquisite, she said. Or was it the other way around? Either way, she is now lauding Herr Mozart as a true genius as if she had never before heard his other works. Although I still cannot believe you agreed to let her go during the season."
"I will admit I had my reservations about her attendance," Darcy set down his paper and leaned back with a sigh. "However, it was the one thing she truly wanted in thanks for her efforts with the Bingley's. Without giving her the full explanation as to why we needed her help, it was honestly the least I could do. As for the performance, you will have to go off of Georgiana's opinion as I cannot offer much of my own. I spent the entire evening trying to keep Miss Bingley in her own chair. The woman had to lean over every few minutes to whisper in my ear some observation or other, mostly about the other attendees. I doubt she could give any description of the performance itself."
Fitzwilliam nodded along solemnly. "I am grateful you are the one who has to deal with that viper, not me, yet I do feel sorry for you." Cocking his head, he studied his cousin further before asking what Darcy knew had been the first question he truly wanted to ask. "And Bingley? How did he handle the evening?"
"Same as every other evening we have spent in company these last three weeks." Standing, Darcy walked to the sideboard to grab the port. Extending it out towards Fitzwilliam who nodded, he walked back to the desk and refilled both of their long empty cups before returning to the sideboard. Setting the bottle down, he maintained his hold as he stared at the wall. He could feel Fitzwilliam's eyes on his back as he stood there unsure what to say.
"William?"
Sighing he trudged back to his chair, sat down, and picking up his glass began to swirl its contents. After several moments watching the liquid, he stopped and took a sip before clearing his throat and finally looking up at his cousin. "I am growing weary, Richard. I do not believe I can continue this course of action for much longer. We have been in company with Bingley and his sisters more evenings than not of late, yet nothing has changed. The sisters remain completely oblivious to my veiled insults thank goodness, but Bingley's anger only grows. He steadfastly refuses to remain in my sole company, and any attempt to converse privately is shunned."
"This is not what I had hoped when I suggested this plan. I am sorry, William."
"You are not to blame," Darcy said with a shrug. "Despite all my hesitation regarding this plan, I cannot come up with any better solution other than simply forcing him to listen and, as we both know, that will never work with Bingley. A lesser man, perhaps, but not him. You were correct in your approach. Had Bingley's resolve been any weaker, I am certain he would have given in after only a few meetings. As it is, I find myself admiring his determination to be his own man more and more every day. I have long hoped for the day he would show his true strength that I cannot regret it even if it should be at my own expense."
Fitzwilliam regarded him curiously before cautiously speaking, "Will there never again be a day where you do not amaze me?"
"In what way have I shocked you now?" Darcy chuckled.
"Bingley has gained confidence, and you have lost yours!"
"While what you say may hold some truth, I must disagree," Darcy paused to take another sip. "Despite my many experiences, I have never had an outgoing personality; that is Iliana's gift as you well know." Fitzwilliam nodded at that with a reminiscent smile. "When it comes to leading, organization, managing, or any number of responsibilities, I do not suffer a lack of confidence. But confidence in dealing with others socially has always been a deficient quality of mine. Therefore, I have not lost mine even though Bingley has gained some."
"Then what would you have me call it?" Fitzwilliam asked with a smirk.
"Perhaps you could say that I have gained some humility?"
Fitzwilliam guffawed and soon both men were laughing. After calming down, both picked up their glasses once again, one sipping absentmindedly while the other contemplated his cousin over the rim of his.
"Just ask your question, Richard," Darcy muttered causing Fitzwilliam to start with the suddenness of the statement.
"I was just wondering what you plan to do next. Since my plan has not yielded fruit, perhaps using your magic would be the correct course of action."
"No," was the emphatic reply. "While the rest of your idea has not worked, you were right in regards to that one. Magic is not the answer. As you said, it would be too easy, and, based off of his anger, would only give Bingley more cause to despise me. Besides, I must be merely Mr. Darcy trying to woo Miss Elizabeth, not Eavan trying to recover Iliana."
"Do you truly believe that?"
"No, but I must try. Her rejection of my suit is proof that wealth, prestige and power has no influence over her. Therefore, I must not be Eavan to her, just a man; a basic, humble man. To use magic in any way to influence her or those involved could only be detrimental to my cause. Her words in Rosings' drawing room is more than enough proof for that."
Tilting his head and brows furrowed in thought, Fitzwilliam asked, "was that the time you prevented her from destroying Lady Catherine's hideous chair?"
Nodding, Darcy swallowed another sip of his drink before placing the glass on the desk. "There are still two weeks left before the season fully winds down. With any luck, Bingley's sisters will do all they can to postpone their own departure until the rest of the ton have returned to their country estates giving us up to an additional week or two. Surely we can think of another tactic to use against Bingley before then." Seeing Fitzwilliam's hesitant agreement, Darcy sighed and motioned towards the scattered papers. "For now, however, let us return to my notes. It is possible you were onto something with the scream. After all, just before we die, we always hear the sound that will awaken us in the next life. Perhaps there is some significance to these sounds other than just a herald for our memories."
With eager agreement, both men resumed perusing the many sheets before them. The next hour was spent in pleasant conversation with shared amusement and the occasional suppressed shudder as they discussed many of Darcy's awakenings. There were moments when a shadow of memory would tease him, only to dance away before he could grasp it. Fitzwilliam believed this to be a good sign that they were finally on the correct path to unearthing the truth of Eavan's final day. Darcy could do naught but agree.
Eventually Fitzwilliam declared his need to return to his barracks claiming duty to the King could not be forever forsaken by his duty to family. As they worked together to straighten the notes, they were interrupted by a knock at the door. Having given his staff explicit instructions that they were to be undisturbed, Darcy warily called for the visitor to enter. When his butler appeared looking nervous, he spared a quick look at Fitzwilliam who raised his shoulder's uncertainly.
"Yes, Harris, what is it? Is Miss Darcy well?" Darcy inquired when it seemed the butler was hesitant to speak.
"No sir. I mean, yessir!" Harris hastily corrected himself with wide eyes. "I apologize for disregarding your instructions sir, but Mr. Bingley is here and wishes to speak to you. He was quite insistent and would not listen when I said you were not at home to visitors today, sir."
A glance at the clock on the mantle showed it to be well past visiting hours for the day, yet Darcy could not help but ask if Miss Bingley attended her brother.
"No, sir. Mr. Bingley is quite alone. Shall I try to send him away again?"
"Indeed not, Harris. I should be more than willing to see him. Let us have a few minutes, however, before you send him in. We will finish up shortly."
"Very good, sir," Harris bowed as he stepped back through the door pulling it closed.
Astounded that Bingley had finally requested to speak to him, the two cousins stood there in silence for several moments just staring at the door. Finally Fitzwilliam shook his head as he and let out a nervous chuckle.
"Imagine that," he spoke softly, "an hour ago you were ready to give up this scheme, yet here we are! Is it possible he will finally give in?"
Still staring at the door in a stupor, Darcy shook his head. "I cannot say. I can only hope so."
"Quite a coincidence if you ask me! Perhaps you should have tried giving it all up last week and saved us quite a bit of a headache, not to mention some time with the Viper."
"Come now, Richard," Darcy scoffed finally coming around enough to hurriedly begin collecting the last of the papers. "Surely you know by now that where my father is involved there are no such things as coincidences."
With brows raised higher than Darcy had seen them before Fitzwilliam asked, "Do you truly think your father has to do with Bingley's sudden desire to speak to you."
"I would bet Pemberley on it."
"A result of your supposed increased humility perhaps?"
"I should think so, perhaps."
"Well then," Fitzwilliam quickly drained the last of his drink before walking over to place it on the sideboard. He then retrieved Darcy's empty glass to return it as well while watching with fascination as his cousin whispered a word while flicking his wrist. Although he could not see nor hear anything, he was aware that the drawer containing their notes was now untouchable by all except Darcy. Shaking his head he asked if Darcy wished for him to remain to support him.
"No, thank you. I think it best if I were to talk with him alone. It would not do for me to appear aggressive and that will be best achieved in solitude. But I do appreciate the offer."
"Very well. I shall only wish you well."
"Will you join us for dinner tomorrow? I know Georgiana was unhappy to hear you would not be able to spare more time for her today."
"Unfortunately I am required to attend to my regiments training. I shall be unable to join you again until Friday unless my attendance is urgently required before then," Fitzwilliam said with a wink.
Laughing gently, Darcy reached out a hand to shake his. "I am sorry to disappoint, but I am sure I can handle anything Bingley wishes to throw at me today. If I am wrong, you can regale me with your superior intelligence at dinner on Friday."
"You can count on it." With a final shake, Fitzwilliam let go of his hand and walked towards the door. Before he turned the handle, however, he hesitated and glanced back at Darcy.
"I will send you a note this evening. Will that suffice?"
"Thank you, William. I would appreciate it! Good luck!" With a final smile, Fitzwilliam hurried from the room.
Taking a deep breath, Darcy glanced at the desk to assure himself that all was orderly and as it should be. Still unsure as to what to expect with Bingley, he determined the best course of action would be to suppress his nerves and act as though nothing was out of the ordinary.
When Harris knocked on the door before opening it to announce Bingley, Darcy was sitting calmly behind his desk with an open ledger in front of him as though that had been his task all day. Standing slowly, he allowed a small smile as he greeted the man.
"I am not here for pleasantries, Darcy," Bingley barked out as he stormed towards the desk in a manner reminiscent of Lady Catherine.
Startled at such harshness coming from the man he had always seen as quite amiable, Darcy took a deep breath before replying. It would do him no good if he allowed himself to rise to the bait. Thankfully, he noticed Harris make a quick escape closing the door firmly behind him. Wishing to ensure none of the household would hear what would be said, Darcy placed a quick barrier on the room before asking how he could be of assistance.
"Whatever game you are playing at must stop!" Bingley nearly growled.
"I am afraid I do not know to what you are referring," he replied as he gestured to the seat opposite his. When Bingley did nothing more than scowl in refusal, he simply shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly before easing himself back down into his own chair.
"I will not allow you to abuse my intelligence any longer, nor shall I endure any more of your abuse towards my sister."
With a single brow raised Darcy calmly replied, "I do not abuse her for fun, Bingley, if that is what you think."
"But you do admit to abusing her. How dare you! I should call you out this instant, sir!"
As Bingley's voice continued to rise, Darcy was glad he had placed a spell on the room protecting them from any eavesdropping. "Abuse is too harsh a word. I have not touched the lady, nor do I ever desire to. As to other forms of abuse, I cannot say that is what I have done either. Miss Bingley is no victim of anything other than her own mistaken pride and sense of superiority. My actions are simply to show you that she is wrong."
"By insulting her in every possible backhanded way?" Bingley spat while pacing in front of the desk. "All of London is laughing at us and she believes them to all be enamored of her. I cannot go anywhere without being criticized. Everything I have done to build a name for myself is falling apart faster every day."
"That is your own fault. You have done nothing to enlighten your sister to her own place in society."
"She will not listen."
With a roll of his eyes Darcy suppressed a laugh before replying, "and that is why I have acted in the manner I have done. How else am I to help you see her erroneous ways." Leaning forward onto his desk with his hands clasped, he eyed Bingley cautiously. He knew he must be careful. Fitzwilliam's plans were finally working, thanks in part to some suspected nudging from Adair, and this was the moment they had hoped for; he could not afford to make a mess of it all now. Taking a deep breath he spoke, "if you wish to retain your respectability then stop defending her." Bingley stopped his pacing, turned and stared at Darcy with wide eyes. "Bingley, you must take charge of your sister and refuse to let her run on in such a manner."
"I cannot," was the nervous reply with eyes that refused to meet his own.
"And why not? You are the head of your family are you not?" Seeing a slight nod he continued. "You have full guardianship of your sister do you not?" Another nod. "Then I see no reason why you cannot."
"You do not understand, Darcy. I simply cannot do as you say."
"Tell me why."
"Darcy," Bingley began to rub his hands together, his gaze never leaving the floor, "do not press me on the matter I beg you."
With a huff of impatience, yet grateful to see Bingley's nervousness, Darcy shook his head and firmly stated, "No." When Bingley raised his head in shock, he saw a hint of despair in the man's eyes and knew he was close to breaking. "I need to know. You have shown you are deserving of respect while she has been barely tolerated from the beginning. So why do you insist on defending her when you know to do so will only hurt your own reputation? Is your defense of her simply because she is your sister?"
"No, umm…"
"Is it because you are scared of her?"
"No, I…I have no reason to be scared of her."
"Then why?"
"Because she cannot be wrong!" Bingley finally burst angrily. "Caroline is not…she cannot be wrong…" Deflating quickly, he collapsed into the chair he had previously refused, slumping forward while covering his face with his hands.
Darcy sat there observing him in silence, grateful for his well known ability for keeping his own emotions hidden. It would not have been good for Bingley to see his relief and excitement. At last they had come to the crux of the issue between them, and as he had known, it all came down to their last argument before his visit to Rosings. Softly and carefully he tried to give Bingley one last chance to open up to him on his own. "What is it that you do not want her to be wrong about?"
Sadly, it appeared it was too much to hope for further cooperation as Bingley suddenly shot up from his seat and walked towards the door. "I am done, Darcy," he said over his shoulder refusing to meet his eyes. "Do not call again. You will not gain entry no matter what tantrum Caroline throws."
Not wishing to see all his chances at reconciliation thrown away, Darcy spoke quickly. "I met with Jane Bennet in London before traveling to Kent. She was here for several months during the winter." He was pleased to see Bingley pause, hand outstretched yet not quite touching the doorknob. Softening his voice he continued, "Not even her beauty could mask her sadness. She claimed she had sent Miss Bingley several letters advising her of her stay in town that went unanswered before paying a call. Your sister waited a full month to return the call making it clear the connection was no longer desired."
"Good."
The word was spoken so softly that had his hearing been that of a normal mortal being, Darcy was certain he would not have heard it. "Good?" He asked unsure whether he wanted to know the answer.
"I do not know what you think you are trying to accomplish with this information, but her following me to London only further proves Caroline was correct about the whole family being fortune hunters. She did not care for me, she was just disappointed that she had failed her mother's designs for me."
Darcy wanted to strangle him. How could Bingley be so daft? Mouth pursed and eyes closed in frustration, he took a deep breath. He had to act quickly, the next words he spoke would be the most vital ones he had said all day either ending or facilitating the discussion he truly wished to say. Yet he was unsure what to say. How could he convince Bingley that Miss Bennet's intentions were pure? With sudden clarity, he knew truly humbling himself was the only answer, he just prayed it would be enough.
"Elizabeth Bennet refused my offer of marriage," he finally said in a whisper.
Gasping loudly, Bingley dropped his hand and whipped around to stare at him. "I do not know what is more shocking," he spluttered, "that you proposed or that she refused you."
"Both are true," was spoken through a sad smile.
"But why?"
Darcy could not help but smile wider at the words he himself had spoken only moments before. However, unlike his friend, he planned to be fully open from the start. "I love her, and nothing anyone says or does will convince me otherwise. I will have no other as my wife."
Bingley's eyes grew wider and he stepped closer in response. "But why did she refuse you?"
"In part, she thought I had a hand in her sister's heartbreak. She thought I had convinced you to abandon a woman who loved you with her whole heart simply because she is not of a higher station in life."
"You are wrong! She did not…does not…she cannot love me!"
"I could not say if she still does," Darcy said dismissively while leaning back in his chair. He was pleased to see Bingley drop once more into his own. "Yet I witnessed first hand her heartbreak when she asked after you." Seeing hope beneath the disbelief, Darcy decided to press on. "Bingley, I have spent the better part of the last decade fending off fortune hunters. I can tell one from across a ballroom. No matter how surly I am, nothing can deter a fortune hunter from trying to pursue me. Just look to your sister for a prime example!" A soft guffaw followed this outburst, and with a smile Darcy finished. "While nothing I do can deter your sister, the majority of the Bennet family snubbed me at every possible opportunity. Had they truly been fortune hunters, would I not have been the greater prize?"
Bingley furrowed his brows in confusion. "But Mrs. Bennet, all those things she said…"
"Mrs. Bennet was not raised as a gentlewoman, and it is dreadfully apparent in her actions. It was not her intelligence that attracted Mr. Bennet, but her beauty. She suddenly found herself elevated to a much higher station than she was raised in. As much as I esteem Mr. Bennet's own wit and intelligence, the fault of his wife's actions lays at his feet. Had he merely taught her early on in their marriage how to properly comport herself, her behavior would be vastly different. Now she has five unmarried daughters with an estate entailed away from them. Having lived a better life, why would she want to return to a lesser station after her husband's death? While I cannot approve of her actions, I can understand where she is coming from. She saw the attentions you paid her eldest, can she truly be blamed for believing you meant to propose? No. Should she have spread her speculations as far and wide as she did? No. But knowing her background, can you still truly blame her?"
Darcy could almost see the wheels turning in Bingley's head as he considered all that was said. With an uncertainty in his voice which Darcy had not heard since their school days Bingley asked, "Had I really been that attentive to Miss Bennet?"
"I do not believe you need me to answer that for you."
"No…you do not…" he admitted sullenly. "But she followed me to London! How can you excuse that."
"Do you think Mrs. Bennet moaned your departure quietly?"
"Most likely not."
"And what can you tell me of Miss Bennet's personality?"
Pleased to see Bingley's slightly upturned lips, Darcy listened with a smile of his own. "Well I would have to say she is kind and thoughtful. She feels quite deeply for her loved ones. She is quite sensitive to the feelings of others always wishing to think well of them."
Nodding Darcy pursued with, "And for herself? Would those sensitive feelings extend towards herself?"
"Certainly!" Was the ready reply.
"Can you imagine being heartbroken and then forced to listen to your mother complain to all about your failed hopes?"
"Oh…"
Ignoring the sound, Darcy continued. "From my understanding it was Miss Elizabeth who suggested she come to London in order to escape her mother's daily complaints and begin to heal."
"I…" shaking his head, Bingley sat up straight with a new fire in his eyes. "But she called on my sister! How can you explain that."
Narrowing his eyes in disgust, Darcy watched Bingley shrink back. "Despite the behavior of the rest of the family, have you ever seen any reason to complain of the eldest two Bennet's? No, because they have always behaved with the elegance and decorum expected from young ladies of their standing. It would have been a major social faux pas for her to have not called on an acquaintance she thought a friend in town. Can you see Miss Bennet committing that? She has been all that was proper. Can you say the same of your own sister?"
With each word he spoke, Bingley slumped further into his chair until Darcy was unsure if he would slide right off of it or manage to retain his seat. He watched as Bingley considered all that had been said. Many times he would start to rise again, only to drop back down. Every time this happened, more and more of his anger ebbed away until all Darcy saw was a truly broken man.
"I am such a fool."
"I will not argue with you on that score, my friend." Bingley's head shot up with those last two words, and Darcy offered him a sympathetic smile. "Despite all that has happened these past few months between us, I hope you know that I am in earnest."
Bingley answered with a hesitant smile of his own before straightening in his chair. "And continuing to insult my sister in public in such a roundabout way that she mistook it for praise is how you show your friendship?"
If it had not been for the slight tease in Bingley's voice, Darcy would have taken great umbrage. As it was, he could only chuckle. "I fear you must blame Colonel Fitzwilliam! It was all his idea."
"Ha! And I should expect he would then pass the blame on to me for refusing your genteel attempts at reconciliation. No thank you, Darcy! I shall lay the blame at your feet for resorting to such deviousness as to involve your cousin."
"Seeing as it was an eventually successful plan, I will gratefully accept the blame," Darcy jested with a mock seated bow. After a moment of quiet chuckles, Darcy quickly sobered and offered up a sincere apology. When Bingley did not respond and kept his eyes downcast, Darcy added, "I would be happy to remedy any offense done to your personal reputation. I have much too high a respect for you to continue to let others abuse you so in town."
"I thank you, Darcy. But I must decline." Seeing that Darcy meant to insist, Bingley held up a hand to ask for a moment. Sitting back Darcy nodded and allowed the man to gather his thoughts. "In truth, I cannot allow you to accept the blame. You tried to convince me of the errors of my way back in March, and, fool that I am, I blamed you for all my problems. Now, if I understand properly, I am to blame for you having been spurned by the woman you love. How you can forgive me I know not."
Without saying a word, Darcy stood and collected two clean cups and a sifter of brandy from the sideboard before returning to his seat. Although it was still early in the day, he felt this occasion required something a bit stronger than the port he had earlier shared with Fitzwilliam. After pouring a small amount for each of them, and handing Bingley his cup, he sat once more and considered what to say. Bingley watched hesitantly, fingering his glass yet not quite picking it up. With a sigh, Darcy knew he must speak lest Bingley fear he truly did blame him.
"If anyone is at fault, it is only I. You are aware Miss Elizabeth overheard our conversation at the Meryton Assembly. What you may not know is that I regretted my words almost immediately, yet in my stubbornness I refused to humble myself enough to apologize. My conceit as she saw it, was enough cause for her to form a serious dislike for me. I attempted many times to improve her opinion, yet, as you can see, I have not been successful."
"I wish I had known all this before!" Bingley cried. "Suddenly everything makes sense! All those disagreeable debates you instigated at Netherfield, Caroline's intense dislike of her, even…oh…" Bingley's face fell and a look of despair overcame him. "Caroline's insistence that I separate myself from Miss Bennet had just as much to do with you as it did with her so called desire to save myself from an unequal marriage."
"I regret that you are most certainly correct. I was foolish enough one evening at Lucas Lodge to make mention of my admiration for Miss Elizabeth to your sister. While Miss Bingley never cared for the company of the Bennets, it was after that concession that her dislike became quite vociferous."
Taking a few sips of his drink, Bingley considered all that had been said. "I can no longer wonder why you were so angry with me. I knew of your eagerness to return to Hertfordshire, and I denied you that opportunity. What I cannot understand is why you have gone to such great lengths to convince me I was wrong when I have done you a great disservice. Am I merely to be a pawn in your attempts to prove to Miss Elizabeth that you are a worthy marriage partner?"
"While I will not deny that I need your assistance, the truth is that I have missed my friend. You may choose to believe me or not," he quickly added when Bingley rolled his eyes, "but I have so few people that I can trust and truly enjoy myself around. I need you in my life just as much as I want Miss Elizabeth in it. The fact that your actions will help determine my fate where that lady is concerned constitutes only a small portion of my desire to reconcile with you."
With a solemn nod, Bingley downed the rest of his drink, slammed the glass on the desk, and stood up. "Well then, I guess there is nothing left to do but send notice to Mrs. Nichols that it is time to reopen Netherfield."
"No, Bingley," Darcy said wistfully. "I cannot allow you to do that. You cannot return to Netherfield yet, and, therefore, neither can I."
"I do not understand. Why should I not return? Is this not why you wished for?"
With a wave of his hand indicating Bingley should resume his seat, Darcy gave a sad smile. "I wish for nothing more than to find myself in her presence once again. However, are you prepared to find yourself in company with Miss Bennet right now?" Pleased to see Bingley pondering the notion, he went on. "For the better part of seven months, you have allowed yourself to think of her as your sisters wished you to, denying yourself the chance to feel anything other than disgust for her. No young woman desires her suitor to feel anything other than admiration. Of course, as I said earlier, I am unsure if she still has any feelings for you at all as I last spoke to Miss Elizabeth nearly three months ago. Since you are neither sure of your own feelings nor hers, to go rushing straight there would only complicate matters. You need time to erase your doubt in her, and determine what exactly it is you do feel for her, if indeed any such feelings still exist."
"I had not thought of that."
"You have not truly had time to," Darcy conceded. "To add to all that you must consider Miss Bingley."
"Caroline?" Bingley sneered. "After all you have said today, why must I consider her when she has done me a great disservice?"
"I care not for her feelings or thoughts on the matter, and neither should you. No, you must instead consider how you are to handle her. She will not allow you to return to Netherfield willingly. You must grow in confidence and assurance before you consider returning so that if you do decide to return you will be able to stand up to her and refuse to allow her to browbeat you further."
In the quiet that followed, Darcy saw that Bingley was truly pondering his words. "You are right, Darcy. Miss Bennet deserves a man who is certain of himself and can prove that he can take charge of his family. I must decide if I desire to be that man or not." Looking up, there was a pleading look in his eyes. "How am I to do that? I will readily admit that I cannot stand up to Caroline now, but if I do not, how am I ever to determine my own course in life?"
With a sigh of relief, Darcy broke out in a huge grin. "Come to Pemberley with me! While many have already begun the exodus from town, we have already made plans with your sisters to attend a few more events over the next two weeks before the season draws to a final close. Let us clue your sister in to the reasoning behind our reconciliation as her knowledge of it can only be detrimental to our cause. When the month is up, let us make our way to Pemberley together. During this time, we can continue to rekindle our friendship. With any luck, your sister will be so pleased to see us reconciled that we can use it as an excuse to escape her attentions and see you grow in confidence. When you have discovered what you desire to do, then we can consider plans to return to Netherfield. Does this meet with your approval?"
Darcy was concerned when Bingley responded with laughter. "You truly do love her!"
It was not a question, but Darcy could not help but respond affirmatively.
"Are you truly willing to wait that long to see her again? What if she finds another during your continued absence?"
"At the risk of sounding quite cocky, I can assure you that I have no such qualms. Miss Elizabeth may not love me now, but I can promise you that she will never marry another. She may not know it yet, but her heart belongs to me as much as mine belongs to her."
Bingley began to laugh, but stopped when he saw how serious his friend was. "Darcy, you yourself said she refused you. Certainly you must be mistaken as to her feelings."
"I assure you I am not," Darcy sighed. "I have made many mistakes in my attempts to woo Miss Elizabeth, but there is more to it than I can share at this time. Have no fear, I have done nothing to tarnish her reputation nor mine. My life is not what you think it is. I have many secrets that I have only recently begun to share with Colonel Fitzwilliam. It is because of these secrets that I am assured of the eventual outcome and success of my attempts. I will not share right now, but perhaps someday I might. In the meantime, will you trust me enough to know that my confidence is not misplaced?"
Bingley sat there, mistrust evident in his eyes. Darcy was unsure why he had said what he did, and, in his desperation to ease the sudden tension in the room, ached to use his magic to influence his friend. With great reluctance, he reigned in the tendrils seeking their escape, only to feel another's power pass by him. The relaxing of Bingley's shoulders was immediate upon the magic touching him and he nodded his acceptance.
With his own nod, he listened to the whispered words of his father. "You have done well, Eavan. Now let me help to reverse the effects of my own influence on your friend."
Gratitude was expressed under his breath as the two men turned their attention to making plans for their departure. An hour later, Bingley expressed his need to depart and declined Darcy's invitation to remain for dinner. When he left, it was with a promise to meet again the next day.
The rest of the day was spent in pleasant conversations with Georgiana, who was thrilled to hear of his success, and relieved that she would not have to pretend a friendship with Miss Bingley for much longer. After dispatching a quick note to Fitzwilliam apprising him of all that was said and done, Darcy made his way to bed with a smile on his face. Knowing what he did of the Miss Bennet's he felt assured that for the first time, he was finally on his way to securing Elizabeth's heart.