AN: Dear Guest commenter, I never claimed to be perfect or have an infallible story to share. This is why I ask for suggestions and feedback in the first place. If you dislike the story, don't read it. Honestly, I am writing it for myself and anyone who is interested to read it. As for Lizzy's character… I am a pretty strong willed/minded/independent/intelligent individual and even I can have moments of insecurity. In my opinion she would have to overcome some insecurity in order to grow to be Mrs. Darcy, in spite of society. She is only 20 years old and has never been subjected to the strong opinions of society at this level before. Her mother is not a comfort to her and Jane, although helpful, is always so optimistic that Elizabeth is sometimes hesitant to adopt her opinions.
So… if you would like to continue reading, I will do my best to write in her character growth as the story goes on.

Without further ado…

Still Friday, October 23, 1812
Ch. 30 (woohoo!) – To the Hursts

As timing would have it, Elizabeth descended from her rooms freshly gowned and ready for the evening party just as the other members of her family began to make their way to their own chambers to change and bathe. She curled up on a seat in the drawing room with her slippers left on the floor and Chaucer in her lap, to listen for the sounds of a certain carriage to arrive.

She did not have long to wait. The carriage did come to deposit its occupants, who bounded up the front steps to gain entry and escape the light misting of rain that had begun to fall. Elizabeth moved to make herself presentable by slipping her feet into her slippers and smoothing her skirt. Before she was able to stand she was greeted by her future sister, "Lizzy, it is good to see you. Please, do keep your seat. Is Jane above stairs?"

At receiving an affirmative answer, Georgiana excused herself, partially closing the door behind her.

Elizabeth raised her brows in wonder at being left alone with Darcy, who was just as astonished after watching his sister quit the room. She smiled when her eyes found those belonging to her beloved. Instead of standing to great him properly, a mischievous notion shone in her eyes and she resumed her previous pose with her feet under her. "Good evening, Sir."

He watched her with amusement and bowed formally, "So it is, my dear Miss Elizabeth."

Darcy slowly stalked across the room to her without breaking eye contact. The passion that was communicated in his expression was so mesmerizing that Elizabeth could not bring herself to look away, even if she had wished to; instead she lifted her chin and met his eyes with confidence in his affection and her own desire for him. When he was close to her, he bent at the waist giving Elizabeth time to exhale and close her eyes in anticipation of his kiss.

It was not to be. When she felt his lips on her forehead rather than where she expected and craved, she frowned and then opened her eyes and lips, ready to voice her outrage in the face of his smirk.

"Miss Bennet, do not frown so. You wouldn't want you to ruin your lovely face. In my youth, I was told that your face could freeze that way."

Elizabeth pursed her lips in an effort to control her indignation and growing amusement. "Mr. Darcy, since I have never seen evidence to support the supposition, I shall ignore it. However, my frown was warranted due to the false expectations my betrothed bestowed upon me. I was under the impression that I was to be gifted with his kiss, an occurrence that has been far too infrequent."

"Well, we cannot have that. Henceforth, I shall strive to meet any expectations which my betrothed has." He cupped her chin to keep her in place and granted her a quick, light kiss upon her lips. "Pray, allow me to help you with your slippers, little cinder girl." Darcy went down on his knee to retrieve a slipper from the floor and waited expectantly.

Instead of replying, she let out a laugh, adjusted herself to offer her bestockinged feet to her gentleman, and quoted, "'He is gentle that doeth gentle deeds.'"

He shook his head at her humor and bent to his self-appointed task, "Indeed? I am not certain that I have ever been called 'gentle' before now. I am not a poet, after all, nor a finely-boned simpleton." When each slipper was firmly in place, he discretely caressed her ankle before rising.

Elizabeth had been holding her breath during his speech and ministrations. When he stood, she let out a breath soundly and quickly gathered her wits. "No, Fitzwilliam. You are far from a simpleton." She reached her hand out to him and stood before continuing to tease him. "If I am a cinder girl, then you are most certainly my dashing prince. You did choose me, after all, and your choice betrays your intelligence, good sense and, of course, excellent taste."

"That is debatable, vixen, though I do own my good fortune in your good sense and intelligence in accepting me."

Elizabeth threw her head back and laughed.

The door was opened wide when Colonel Fitzwilliam was announced. Darcy was a little surprised at his arrival, though his facial expression did not alter. Unbeknownst to Darcy, after readying themselves for the evening, Bingley had elected to go to the Hurst's early (undoubtedly to have words with his sisters and stealthily check the seating arrangements) and sent Fitzwilliam to the Gardiners to tag along with the rest of the party. The Colonel bowed and greeted the couple before politely inquiring after Georgiana and the day in general.

Elizabeth said, "I am very happy that you have agreed to join our happy party tonight, Colonel. I was sorry that the single ladies who called missed your lively company and discourse."

"Do not be sorry; I am glad to know that I escaped them so admirably." The Colonel longed to ask about what his cousin had said to make Elizabeth laugh prior to his entry; however he eyed Darcy and chose to keep his own counsel in the matter.

Darcy asked Elizabeth, "Did you enjoy yourself?" He had missed her during the course of the morning and thought how nice it should be in the future when it is no longer necessary to leave home to visit her.

Elizabeth smiled, "I did, indeed. I believe that I shall like to know your grandmother and aunt very well." She laughed then asked Darcy, "Do you know of a Mrs. Creatson?"

He appeared to search his memory. "I do not believe so."

"Good." She replied with a bright smile, banishing the thought of the overdone widow with her audacious implications. She did not notice the Colonel's slight flush and continued, "I am happy to know that we will not to be in London long. I suspect it shall be enough to associate with those ladies at the Torrington ball in a few days."

There was more pleasant conversation as other household members soon joined the group in the drawing room. Elizabeth stayed close to her betrothed and Jane enjoyed Georgiana's friendship in Bingley's absence.

P&P

The Hurst townhouse was located in a neighborhood about half way between Darcy's and the Gardiners. While not highly fashionable, the house had a grand appearance with columns on a clean street, though it appeared to merge into the homes on either side.

The group arrived in two carriages. Mrs. Bennet sat with her eldest daughter and the Gardiners for the ride singing praises of the Opera the evening before and Jane's future happiness. "It is good that Jane shall have two older sisters by marriage to assist her with the transition to fashion and wealth. After all, he has four or five thousand a year and it would not due for you to have no direction at all. Of course, I will be too happy to help! I shall take the carriage to Netherfield to assist you as much as you need in the beginning. Do not fret that I shall not. Such responsibility you shall have! The Hursts are so good to extend the invitation tonight and take you into their family fold now, Jane."

The occupants of the carriage listened politely but contributed very little, preferring to keep their true thoughts to themselves.

The Darcy carriage followed with Darcy and Elizabeth, Miss Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam. The conversation flowed in an easy manner avoiding speculation over the evening to come. Colonel Fitzwilliam anticipated a diverting evening; he was usually easy among friends and enjoyed conversation excessively. Miss Darcy however began toying with an embroidered handkerchief while looking out the window. She was not overly nervous for her own discomfort, rather she hoped that Miss Bingley would be kind to Elizabeth and did not expect to enjoy Miss Bingley's exaggerated smiles and effusions. Elizabeth put a calming hand on Georgiana's and asked her if she found any books to her liking at the bookstore earlier in the day, so that the remainder of the ride was spent discussing new authors.

Hats and wraps were left with the servant at the door and the group was escorted to the drawing room where Mr. Bingley greeted the group in his usual jovial manner before attaching himself to Jane's side.

Prior to their arrival, Bingley had warned his youngest sister to behave herself and spoken to his married sister regarding his wedding. Miss Bingley was inclined to roll her eyes at her brother's words and excitement while her agitation escalated over her sister's calm mien and disregard.

The evening began in a predictable manner with greetings and small talk. Mr. Darcy stood stoically next to Elizabeth, he conversed little, preferring to keep his attention on his betrothed and sister. He was happy to observe his sister appear comfortable and open with Elizabeth's family, though could ascertain that she was still reserved while speaking with Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley. Elizabeth was amused by his aloofness and tried to draw him into conversation with a raised brow reminding him to practice.

The meal began with quiet appreciation for the course. Mrs. Hurst began conversation to mask the noisy eating habits of her husband, asking her brother about his plans for the holiday after the wedding. While Bingley replied in a noncommittal way looking to Jane for her views on the subject, Elizabeth turned to Darcy in distress. "I must apologize for my absent mindedness, Fitzwilliam. It completely slipped my mind."

Darcy turned at Elizabeth's tone and spoke quickly to reassure her. "Whatever you are troubled with, I shall not be upset. Nothing is worth the torment, I assure you."

"I completely neglected to tell you that I extended invitations for Christmastide. Besides the Gardiners, I also asked Jane to question Mr. Bingley if they might come to Pemberley."

Darcy smiled and patted Elizabeth's hand, "I am glad you thought of it. Will the Gardiners come?" Elizabeth was relieved that her betrothed was not unhappy. She gladly answered with her uncertain knowledge of her family's plan.

Mrs. Gardiner, overhearing part of the conversation between her niece and Mr. Darcy chimed in after Elizabeth's reply. "Lizzy, our family is happy to accept the invitation. Business is typically slower after the holiday and very few ships are able to sail, so we might be able to stay through the New Year. Mr. Gardiner is uncertain about the exact time frame, however." She smiled kindly at the couple next to her. "I am particularly excited to tour the park."

Mr. Darcy was delighted, especially due to Elizabeth's expression of joy and excitement. "It can be arranged Mrs. Gardiner, though with the weather you might have to settle for a sleigh ride. Perhaps your family can come again in the summer to ensure a dryer ride in a coach." The remark over the sleigh caught Georgiana's notice, who was sitting across from them; she claimed Elizabeth's and Jane's attention to share her love of the winter season.

Thus the meal became a more animated affair with the ladies discussion. The gentlemen also partook in conversation about the entertainment to be had during the winter. Little notice was given to Miss Bingley or Mr. Hurst who said little, enjoyed the discussion not at all, and continued to judge the guests while silently pondering their own matters and consuming wine. (Mrs. Bennet tried her best to draw Miss Bingley into conversation about eligible gentlemen and her living arrangement plans after Jane and Bingley wed, however Miss Bingley had no inclination to engage in those particular topics.)

While the evening passed, Miss Bingley had been chewing on the idea of how to speak with Elizabeth alone. Mr. Darcy appeared to ignore or indulge her with minimal attention as to not appear rude. She dearly wanted to impart her importance and earn her way back into Mr. Darcy's good graces; after all, it would be a travesty to lose the society advantages Darcy could offer or any future invitations to Pemberley—she had noticed that the invitation was not directly extended to herself or the Hursts for the holiday at Pemberley.

Speaking to the future Mrs. Darcy was not easily done until the customary separation of the sexes after the eight-course meal. While Louisa played on the pianoforte in the corner of the room, Mrs. Gardiner sat by Georgiana discussing her plans for after the wedding. An invitation was extended to Georgiana to visit whenever she found herself in town, which was graciously accepted.

"Miss Elizabeth," Miss Bingley said diverting Elizabeth's attention, "would you care to take a turn with me? I wish to have a word."

Elizabeth was surprised to be called properly by Miss Bingley, and not a little curious; she agreed and stood to stroll the perimeter of the room. Patiently she waited for Miss Bingley to begin. When they were on the opposite side of the room, Miss Bingley halted and said, "I realize you were not expecting my addresses. I wanted to offer my friendship to you; after all, we shall soon be sisters. It would be wonderful to start anew, don't you agree?"

Elizabeth wondered at her scheme. Miss Bingley's name had come up during calls and at the Opera as the very one spreading malicious rumors. She calmly replied, "It is no matter."

"Well then, perhaps you can visit with me and we can discuss how to run a grand home. Pemberley, as you will recall, is no Longborne." She sniggered. "I would be happy to assist you in anything. I know a great deal about Mr. Darcy as well. His habits while at home, how he prefers his tea... these are very important facts to know if you wish to make him happy."

Elizabeth replied unhappily and perturbed, "Forgive me, but I believe I might ascertain that information from the man himself. He is to be my husband. Mr. Darcy will also need to learn the same of me. I must persuade you to pick a new topic, one that does not concern our felicity in marriage."

Miss Bingley laughed, ignoring Elizabeth's tone, "Oh Eliza, what fun we shall have! I can assure you that it is much more vital for you. That is how you keep a man. To please them, they must know that you are interested in the details." She ignored Elizabeth's raised brow and continued speaking about how best to please a man, Mr. Darcy specifically. She was so caught up in her speech, that she missed the entrance of the gentlemen, who quietly took seats not wishing to disturb the performance on the pianoforte.

Elizabeth watched from the corner of her eye as Darcy made his way to her, biting the inside of her cheek to keep her attention on Miss Bingley for courtesy's sake.

"It is most trying to be a woman, is it not? I suggest that…" Miss Bingley trailed off when she turned to behold Mr. Darcy.

"I can only imagine," he said, stepping closer to his fiancée with his hands clasped behind him. "Pray continue, Miss Bingley. I am rapt with anticipation."

Miss Bingley giggled nervously, which came out sounding like a snort. "You astonish me, Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth and I were having a discussion."

"Indeed."

Georgiana suddenly stood and came to join their group to rescue Elizabeth. "Lizzy, your Aunt and I have a question for you. Please excuse us." She took a thankful Elizabeth by the hand and lead her away, whispering quietly, "Sorry it took me so long!"

Mr. Darcy watched his favorite ladies leave his side and turned his indifferent stare on Miss Bingley. "I appreciate your peace offering to my betrothed, Miss Bingley. We shall soon be related by marriage, so it would be prudent to make friends. However, that being said, I feel the need to warn you against any mischief."

Miss Bingley waited for a moment feeling the weight of his scrutiny. "Yes, Mr. Darcy?"

"That is all, Miss Bingley." He turned on his heel to join the conversation between the Colonel, Elizabeth and the Gardiners. Miss Bingley excessed herself soon after.

Elizabeth smiled at the Colonel's joke and looked to Darcy when she sensed his nearness. How frustrating it was to be in public and unable to converse privately! She wanted to assure him that no harm was done while he desperately wished to touch her and expose his inner thoughts to her. He was glad to know that Miss Bingley had not been outright cruel; however it was crucial that Elizabeth understand her role in the future. As Mrs. Darcy no one ought to speak to her in a disrespectful manner, or they would find themselves deprived of the Darcy's notice. Mr. Darcy, sadly, believed that her immediate family would be given more leeway for poor manners and thoughtless remarks than he would be willing to tolerate.

"Oh the fabric is divine!" Mrs. Bennet's loud voice resonated due to the high ceiling and wood floors while she chatted on to Mrs. Gardiner, Mrs. Hurst and anyone else who offered their attention to her. "My brother is so kind to my daughters and treats them as his own. You should see the array that was brought to the house! There was this one piece of lace that came all the way from Italy. My, it was so beautiful! It would have been so complimentary to my Lizzy, enhance the flattering features she has, but alas she would not wear it. Headstrong girl that she is, I do wonder sometimes how she came to be my daughter."

Elizabeth's cheeks were pink. She refused to meet Darcy's eyes in her embarrassment and could not even bring herself to speak. Although she was accustomed to similar remarks made by her mother, it was no less hurtful and mortifying with other people present.

While the men did their best to ignore the rude comment, Mrs. Hurst sat back down at her instrument to play another tune. It was Jane who stood from her seat next to her aunt to address her mother. "Mama, Lizzy has made some fine choices and the dressmaker agreed. Lizzy and I thought that the lace would make a fine gift for Kitty's hat."

"What does Kitty have to do with it?"

Mrs. Bennet's reply was lost on Darcy as he moved subtly closer to Elizabeth. She tried to laugh away her discomfiture and said to him, "It seems that your decision might be questionable after all, Mr. Darcy. I am a headstrong, impertinent lady in need of direction since my choice of clothing is rather appalling. Not enough lace and trimmings, I am afraid."

He shook his head, "I must disagree with you once again and remind you to not express opinions which are not your own."

Bingley and Mr. Gardiner's close proximity discouraged Darcy from kissing her hand, but the look in his eyes expressed his affection for her. Elizabeth raised her chin and tilted her head and replied, "I shall try to remember henceforth. I hope my mother did not upset Georgiana."

The discussion successfully redirected, she moved to sit with Georgiana and her sister.

Later, the group complimented and thanked their hosts before moving out to the dark night. Elizabeth was sad to say goodnight to her betrothed before stepping into her uncle's carriage with her relations, though she had been the one to suggest they make their way directly to Darcy House. Georgiana had shown signs of fatigue, and Elizabeth suspected boredom despite the Colonel's efforts, as the night progressed.

The next evening they would be attending a dinner that Lady Matlock insisted they attend.

P&P

As the Darcy carriage pulled away from the Hursts to make the short distance to Darcy House, Georgiana looked to her brother sitting next to her. "Brother, why was Mrs. Bennet so hard on Lizzy?"

Darcy looked across the seat to notice Bingley's inattention and met the eyes of his cousin in communication. Georgiana had no memories of her own mother and could not fathom why Mrs. Bennet was not more nurturing. "She is a devoted mother in her own way, but I believe she has always been tougher on Elizabeth. You have not met her father as of yet, however you will find that his treatment of his second daughter to be quite the opposite of Mrs. Bennet."

Georgiana thought on her brother's reply and decided that he was being rather kind. It is a good thing, she thought, that Lizzy will soon be at Pemberley with us and away from her mother.

AN: Sorry for the delay I seem to want to get to point B, but I'm so afraid of missing anything that my brain is taking longer to conceptualize an entire chapter. There have been a lot of dramas going on personally as well, so thank you for your continued support and patience with me!

Reviews! I love them! Tell me what types of interesting discussions you think should take place at the next dinner party? What do you think our characters are occupying their time with before they go?

*Quote from Chaucer's Canterbury Tales