AN: Thank you for your feedback!
One comment mentioned that Miss Bingley was not a part of the hunting party to return to Netherfield. That is before Mr. Bingley proposed. There was a few weeks lapse in the time that Jane is proposed to, Lady Catherine visits and Mr. Darcy returns. I am assuming that Miss Bingley returned to Netherfield sometime in there. She is, after all, acting as the Mistress/Hostess of Netherfield since Bingley has guests; the book does not mention her.

I did go back and correct some of my typos. There are some phrases that I have chosen purposefully… Also, I am aware of my tendency to alternate between present and past tense. It drives me nuts to read stories that have this problem, but please bear with me. I am attempting to stick to a similar style of writing as Miss Austen, and so that is my excuse. (But I am noticing that my writing is progressively becoming more casual against my will).

If you are reading to find corrections or changes, please PM me instead of filling out the feedback box as a guest.

Now to the story…Bennet ladies just joined Mrs. Phillips for some morning gossip, I mean, company.


Mrs. Phillips led her Bennet relations into the sunlit parlor. Already there was a pitcher of lemon water and light pastries on the table awaiting them. Mrs. Phillips had known of Jane's engagement for several days and was eager to learn about wedding plans.

Before Mrs. Phillips could say more than to have a seat and help themselves, Mrs. Bennet, bouncing on her chair, exclaimed: "Sister, we have the most wonderful news! Of course you already know about our Jane and Mr. Bingley, but you will never guess what else! Lizzy is presently engaged too! It is too much. One daughter married and two more betrothed and…Good gracious ten thousand a year! We are all saved."

Mrs. Phillips, though quite accustomed to Mrs. Bennet's harangues, was a little confused. "What is it you mean? Lizzy is also betrothed? To whom?"

Jane and Elizabeth were embarrassed to be discussed as if they were not present. They sat together on the settee sharing similar looks of mortification. Sadly, this meeting was passing just as our characters had envisioned. At least there were no other neighbors privy to the scene.

Kitty sat at the table with her mother and aunt. She was not inclined to be left out of the conversation, so she offered, "Why, to Mr. Darcy! Is that not something? We all thought that Mr. Darcy did not like Lizzy at all, but it seems we were wrong all this time."

"Oh hush, Kitty." Said her mother bent on basking in glory.

Catherine Bennet was accustomed to being scolded for a number of imagined infractions. As the fourth daughter of Mrs. Bennet, she often lived in the shadows of her other sisters. She suddenly regretted choosing a seat by her mother rather than her sisters. In typical Kitty fashion, she sat back upon the chair and silently pouted. In truth, her temperament was somewhere in between Jane and Elizabeth's with the flightiness of the youngest sister, Lydia. She had learned to be irrational and loud from Lydia, who had a much stronger will and disposition than Kitty. With the benefit of time and her tendency to follow by example, Kitty did possess the potential to mature.

"I tell you. He is the best of men. He has graced our house many times with Mr. Bingley. Imagine! My Lizzy shall have such fine clothes and carriages. I knew she could not be so clever for nothing!"

"Indeed, Sister." She looked at her niece. Mrs. Phillips was impatient to know of their plans and impart any wisdom that she had. However, her temperament allowed her to keep calm in her eagerness. "I see you have been busy Lizzy. When shall the weddings take place? Oh the fun of shopping for your wedding clothes. I wonder if you will buy your finery in London, after all that is where the fashionable shop. My dear Mrs. Bennet, you need to plan the weddings as soon as may be, you would not want the gentlemen to escape!"

This put Mrs. Bennet into a fit of nerves. Why did she not think about London?! She must write to her brother! Two weddings as soon as possible. Yes, it must be done!

Mrs. Bennet's eldest daughters counted down the time until they could take their leave.

Tea at Longbourn was a very pleasant affair. Together the group talked mostly of the country weather before each couple broke away from the general conversation to engage in their own private ones. The gentlemen happily agreed to stay for dinner. Elizabeth was relieved that her mother had few words to impart to Fitzwilliam and hoped her wonderment would last until they exchange vows.

At dinner Elizabeth sat next to Mr. Darcy while across from her, Jane sat with her Mr. Bingley. The ladies were content to listen to Mr. Bennet's discourse with his future sons as he attempted to understand them better.

When the last course was served Mr. Bingley reminded the family about dining at Netherfield the following evening. "I am so looking forward to hosting. My sister is also eager to have your company. I am afraid that I have neglected Caroline for the last week."

Mr. Darcy raised his brows at Miss Bingley's 'eagerness' regarding dinner with the Bennets. But did not say anything until Elizabeth inquired when he was going to tell Miss Bingley. "At dinner, of course." was his answer.

Elizabeth was not fooled and resolved to tease him. She inclined her head to the side, "Mr. Darcy, you are not procrastinating are you? I cannot imagine that you would be frightened of the plumed lady. Perhaps you enjoy her antics, otherwise you would have told her first thing."

"I assure you that I have done a very good job of avoiding her 'antics'. I was under the impression that you wanted to tell her yourself." He flashed a wicked grin, "Honestly, I did not want to give her consideration. She will find out soon enough." With that he took up his cup and she was left unsatisfied but amused with the scenario.

After some leisure conversation and small entertainment, the gentlemen again took their leave with a compliment and thanks to Mrs. Bennet for the meal. Jane and Elizabeth watched them ride away from the window. They were both contented with the universe until Mrs. Bennet interrupted to talk about clothes fittings and ordering their respective trousseaux.

"I sent a letter this afternoon to the Gardiners. We should take a trip to London. There we can distinguish what fabrics your uncle can procure and have a finer selection in the shops. I adore shopping in London! I will talk to your father about when, but I think we should leave in a few days' time. It will take a fortnight at least to get it all done." She clapped her hands in excitement and gestured grandly before she took her nerves into the library to deliberate with Mr. Bennet.

Elizabeth took Jane's hand and together they made for the stairs leaving peals of laughter in their wake.

The next morning Mr. Darcy used a quiet moment to address some estate business from his Steward. While he was debating over the best way to resolve a dispute between two neighboring tenants, a footman interrupted to deliver a missive.

He recognized the handwriting and was happy for the distraction.

London

Dear Cousin,

You puerile excuse for a divvy codger! I knew it was only a matter of time before an enchanting creature managed to secure you. Although I am surprised at your choice, I think Miss Elizabeth will make an excellent Mistress for Pemberley and the finest cousin. Congratulations Old Man!

I am afraid that I have some affairs to get in order before I fetch Georgiana from Pemberley. I am sure it should not take more than a fortnight to confer with the General or see to previous obligations. Ah, the life of a mature, upstanding gentleman. I think I should like to revert back to childhood and impose myself on my relations.

I am most interested in being reacquainted with Miss Elizabeth. She was delightful company in Kent, despite our Aunt's intimidations. If anyone can weather the Lady's displeasure, Miss Elizabeth can. You might have to lend her your greatcoat so you can hide behind her coattails! I can see it now—I am extremely diverted. (Do not fret. I am just kidding after all. I know your expressions too well and think it more likely that you both will stand side-by-side with blank countenances to do battle against our Aunt. This scenario is also amusing to me.)

I will write to Georgiana later today so she knows when to expect me. Wish me luck. I have purchased a small jewelry box to placate her wrath, for she will not be happy to wait for me with the promise of a sister in Hertfordshire.

Do remember me to Miss Elizabeth and give her my heartfelt condolences for your future nuptials. Your carefree and unshackled cousin,

Geoff

When Darcy finished reading the letter, he was smiling and thankful to have such a close relationship with the Colonel. 'Condolences' indeed! Besides his sister, Geoffrey's good opinion was the most important to him. He was impatient to receive a letter from his sister, but it would likely take another couple days.

He was also expecting a missive from his solicitor. Once received, he would have to make the trek to London. If Geoffrey remains in residence there, they will have an opportunity to speak before he departs for Derbyshire. Darcy shook his head thinking of it as another matter to keep him in town away from Elizabeth. He vowed silently to himself not to leave her once they are wed.

Darcy put aside the letter from Geoff as well as the one from his solicitor and took the servant's exit to leave the house. On his stroll he was able to reflect on the conflict between his tenants and other matters. Time away from Pemberley was always a trial. It was essential to rely on those in his service to carry out his directives and manage the property in his absence. The burden of concern for a master was certainly weighty. His thoughts sprung from one topic to another. He had yet to write to his housekeepers who ought to begin preparations for the new mistress… It seemed to Darcy that his thoughts would not linger for long on a singular subject. This will not do. Nothing is sure to get accomplished if my mind will not cooperate.

It was at this point that our dashing Mr. Darcy was distracted by a singing, laughing nymph. Recognizing the voice, he continued as quietly as possible until he beheld a vision straight out of his imagination.

Elizabeth was happy to escape her mother's endless questioning and speculation regarding clothing and weddings. She laughed up at the sky and twirled enjoying her freedom. She thought it was favorable that Kitty and Mary were not engaged as well, or her mother's sanity would certainly be propelled over the edge. And there is not even a wedding date set... She meandered along the path singing little snatches of music and picking flowers to make a wreath for her head (in her haste her bonnet was forgotten!). She thought of making a matching wreath and laughed at the thought of the stoic Fitzwilliam Darcy wearing one.

Then suddenly, there he was! Elizabeth looked to either side of her to be certain that he was real before bestowing him with a radiant smile and accusing him of spying.

"Never! Certainly you were conjured from a dream to interrupt my dreary walk." He came close and lifted her hand for a kiss. He eyed the crown of flowers on top of her disarray of curls. There were a number of superlatives that he thought to say, but settled on the simplest. "You look lovely. May I join you?"

"Of course," said she while taking his offered arm and continuing together up the mount. They talked a little of his letter and her mother's antics. "It seems that Mama is bent on a trip to London soon to order new clothing. Although we always enjoy visiting the Gardiners and attending various entertainments, Jane and I are not altogether keen on the enterprise. I suppose Mama is correct about the variety of items to be found there." Elizabeth was resigned with the scheme, though unsure about leaving her home when it would not be home for much longer. She also had no wish to be parted from her betrothed.

At the top of the mount they stopped to enjoy the view. When he turned to face her, his unmistakable merriment made her raise her brow in question. "That shall work out to our advantage. I did not want to leave you for the few days I am needed in town. I shall follow you there to attend to business while you, Miss Bennet, and your mother go shopping." Also, thought he, I can direct you to the dressmaker my Aunt Matlock and Georgiana swears by. And it might be a nice surprise to order some additional attire and accessories that Lizzy admires. After a slight pause, he continued, "I anticipate accompanying you to the theater, the park, and to any other amusement you wish."

Elizabeth was delighted. Precipitously her uncertainty of venturing to London at such a time dissolved. "I will relish each entertainment that I have you in tow. What about a party, though? Are you truly willing to be my escort and dance with me without looking severe?"

"If you are inclined to dance, then I can be persuaded. However, I cannot account for my expressions. Being assaulted by society has never been an easy situation for me to endure. If it is merely the act of dancing, and not the company of strangers, that interests you, allow me to ask for some music on the pianoforte."

Elizabeth laughed. She did not care in the least about avoiding engagements. Being seen by the public had its drawbacks; propriety dictated that an acknowledged couple could only dance a limited number of sets. In the comfort of a private music room though, Elizabeth could choose to dance all night with Fitzwilliam.

"I hope you will not be adverse to company of a friendlier nature. Shall Mr. Bingley come as well? Jane will miss him if you are attending to me and he is not likewise joining her."

"I do not know if he intends to go. One of my motives is to conclude arrangements with my solicitor; Bingley might have a similar need. I shall bring it to his attention tonight or in the morn. For now, I am content."

She smiled at the subject dismissal. Elizabeth also felt herself to be content. She enjoyed this solitude with Fitzwilliam, understanding that privacy would be a precious commodity in London and especially when their wedding date grows nearer. She reflected as she gazed longingly into the limitless depths of his dark eyes, that they should not remain unescorted long.

"Elizabeth?" Mr. Darcy whispered looking down, making love to her with his eyes. "I dearly wish to kiss you."

She felt her heart lighten to such an extent, it threatened to lift her off her feet into the air. So transfixed by his expression, that she could not bring herself to look away or raise her voice above a murmur. "Was that a request?"

Indeed it was. Since he neither received an endorsement nor a rebuttal to his desire, the matter was settled in his mind. No other words were needed. A force as old as time itself slowly closed the gap between their bodies and their lips, tentatively their lips made contact and their eyelids closed.

Their first kiss was chaste. Neither dared to breath during the duration, so when they parted for a fraction of a moment it was necessary to inhale deeply. Elizabeth's lips trembled when she at last said his name, "Fitzwilliam."

He could sense heaven shining upon him. Fitzwilliam raised a hand to delicately stroke her cheek with the back of his fingers. His other arm curled around her form causing her hand to rise to his shoulder. It took all the willpower he could muster to keep her at a distance. It would be ungentlemanly to bring her into closer contact with his body. But he could not help the thought, 'When we are wed…'

This time when Fitzwilliam kissed Lizzy, he lingered. While still an innocent kiss, it was tender. The feeling was most agreeable to Elizabeth. It was the kiss coupled with the sensations of his hands caressing the small of her back and neck that thoroughly compelled her to lean into the embrace. Her finders roamed from his shoulder to tease the cravat secreting his neck. She felt light headed. Her will was no longer her own.

Sensing her surrender, Fitzwilliam slowly withdrew. Elizabeth expressed such disappointment that he could not bring himself to let go entirely. Instead he engulfed her dainty hands in his larger ones as he stepped back. "My Lizzy, you would tempt a saint."

Elizabeth did not know how to respond. As she gained her composure, her curiosity was aroused. With dancing light in her eyes she wondered out loud, "Is it possible for it to be any better?"

Darcy smiled, "I suspect that every moment with you will be better than the last." Her question stirred his imagination in a direction best left alone. He was determined to be a gentleman in every sense. It would not do to destroy her innocence before he lawfully had the privilege to demonstrate to her. But he knew that, yes, 'it' could be much better. In time he would delight in the task of enlightening her.

Elizabeth liked that answer very much; however, she was suddenly aware of reality beyond their joined hands and shared gazes. The expanse of time enjoyed without a chaperon was welcome, but not proper. "Let us go. It is nearly tea time and I have to prepare." She looped her arm through his and allowed him to lead the way to where their paths had crossed. They shared one last smile before turning toward their respective dwellings.

Darcy joined the Bingley siblings in the music room for tea. Bingley was clearly agitated and impatient. He could hardly sit still. When he sat to partake in a miniature sandwich or sip from his cup, his knee was endlessly bouncing; when he stood, he was pacing. Darcy was rather amused by the show and managed to hide his own eagerness by watching the spectacle. His earlier meeting with Elizabeth had served to calm him as no music could. He relished the recollection of their recent time together, so partook of the tasty fare with an unreadable expression and no knowledge of what he consumed.

Miss Bingley was oblivious to Charles' display since she was more interested in watching Mr. Darcy. To entertain herself she sat in the center of the bench before the pianoforte and practiced a couple pieces to display her skills. Her plan was to exhibit during the course of the evening. She was not looking forward to associating with the Bennets and reasoned that her playing would serve to distract her from inferior company. Performing is also an appropriate occupation for a hostess and she had the intention of proving herself to be superior.

Miss Bingley longed for the companionship of her sister, Mrs. Hurst, who had stayed in London with Mr. Hurst hoping to conceive an heir. It was a vexing situation to Miss Bingley who could not attend parties or gatherings without her brother's escort or a chaperon. So she had chosen the office of Mistress of Netherfield with the hope of impressing her query, Mr. Darcy.

Soon Miss Bingley excused herself to begin her elaborate toilette. Darcy stood and smirked at Bingley, "We should follow suit. Be sure to take a breath, Charles. All will be well."

Bingley huffed, "I realize. I am too excited to see my angel and make a good impression. Darcy, before you go upstairs, let us go check the seating."

Darcy followed his friend to the dining room glad that Bingley had thought to check the place cards. "A good idea. I am relieved you have the presence of mind. I would not have thought to inspect the table seating." said he as the place cards were switched for Jane and Elizabeth to be seated next to their grooms, rather than across the table. It would not do to while away an evening of five courses without their intended brides. They did not care to look at whose names they exchanged—they are men after all.

"Of course!" replied Bingley, "I have been waiting for Caroline to withdraw to her chambers. The evening will be awkward if the seating is arranged badly." As they made their way up the staircase to their chambers, both silently prayed for Caroline to keep her unpleasant comments to herself.

The time soon came for the Bennets to arrive. While the gentlemen moved to greet their ladies at the door, Miss Bingley used the time to check the dining room and ensure that the staff had everything in order. Although Miss Bingley could be called narcissistic and supercilious, she proved herself to be an excellent hostess. She appeared to take her duties seriously in order to demonstrate her abilities to impress a certain gentleman, avoid the necessity of greeting the guests in the hall, and it was simply something to do. As luck would have it, she failed to double check the placement of the seating cards.

AN: Phew! Hope you enjoyed. I will still take suggestions on what happens at dinner… or in London. Looking forward to some intrigue ;)