A/N: I'M SICK! Beta already knows what to do in case of my death :'( . *dramaqueen*
Chapter 13
"Do you need to pay more house calls today, Lizzy?" Darcy kissed her neck while feeding her a strawberry. Darcy had managed to have a breakfast tray for two brought up to his sitting room without raising suspicions.
"I do not, William. We just need to instruct your tenants about what they will need to do to accomplish the improvements for Pemberley." Lizzy closed her eyes, savoring the fruit and his attentions with equal enjoyment for a moment.
"Good. Then we can stay here, together, all day." He grinned and captured her mouth for a deep kiss.
Lizzy laughed, pushing him away so she could get out of the bed. "That is a very tempting invitation, William, but we still have to call the tenants so we can leave for Oxford tomorrow." She leaned down to whisper in his ear, "But we have tonight. I hope to make good use of our precious time, sir."
Darcy watched the woman he loved exited the room. What am I supposed to do now? Never in his life had Darcy expected such curse to befall him, his heart now belonged to the only woman he could not have. His position in society and his wealth were important; those attributes that always made him the favourite target of matchmaking mothers and mercenary young ladies meant nothing to the one woman to whom he wanted to recommend himself.
Somehow, he knew that he would never be complete without her by his side. She was all that was perfect in his eyes: her beauty was exquisite; how her eyes could display so many feelings he would never understand, her soft skin and her floral scent enraptured his mind; he wanted to touch her all the time. But what Darcy found more attractive than her physical beauty was her mind and her heart. It would be impossible to deny that Lizzy was the most intelligent person he had ever met, just being around her was more enlightening than attending any university or royal society that ever existed. Her wit was immeasurable and her gentle teasing a refreshing balm to his too serious soul. And then there was her kindness. His heart warmed at the recollection of her caring for his sister, her friends and even those who were beneath her without hesitation or concern for herself. She treated everyone with the same loving manner and was unequivocally loved in return.
Yes, he knew that his Lizzy was special. He wanted to make her his forever, but he felt insignificant compared to her. He could offer her nothing. With a heavy heart, full of both love and hurt, his question remained unanswered. What am I supposed to do?
~WA~
Mr. Darcy and Fass left to instruct the tenants since it was Lizzy's faithful assistant that held the needed knowledge.
Meanwhile, with Darcy's total approval, Lizzy decided to see to the servants' health. She asked Mrs. Reynolds to inquire of all the staff so she could assist in any concerns they might have, about themselves or their loved ones.
The normally quite household became extremely animated after the news spread that someone, a doctor no less, would be attending to all under the Master of Pemberley's care. It was a blessing to them that an educated person, let alone a guest of their master, would be willing to take the time to speak with them about their well-being. After the quick improvement of Maria's condition, they somehow understood that this doctor, even though female, was good.
Lizzy loved talking to the servants, listening to their concerns and problems and helping them out. Being helpful to those in need was the most fulfilling feeling she had ever experienced. Her true smile and kind words were the last steps needed to enter the household staff hearts.
"Oh, she gave me a physic for my little brother. Although she explained that it was not possible to know for sure what he had, she was almost certain that this infusion is going to help." One of the maids that had been troubled by her brother's poor health was giddy with relief as she related the story.
"Miss Bennet is indeed the best person I have ever met! Maybe the master will marry her! Imagine that, having Miss Bennet as our mistress," the kitchen maid added dreamily.
"Maybe . . ." replied the girl, already wondering about the heavenly possibility of serving such a kind woman.
Soon after sunrise the next morning, the trio began their journey to Oxford. The satiated smiles plastered on the couple's faces were enough evidence of the 'good use' of their last night in Pemberley.
~WA~
"She is to arrive early this afternoon, Your Highness."
"Impressive. Were they not just in Derbyshire?"
"Yes, Your Highness. But the rumour has it that her carriage is unusually fast, and can make the journey in hours, not days."
"I see . . . This is very interesting. I want to see this thing with my own eyes, but I am quite certain that all this information," he said dropping pages and more pages with reports about the mysterious doctor, "is accurate. I need to inveigle her, she needs to be our ally. What a horror would that be if she was to collaborate with the Americans, or even worse, Napoleon."
"Yes, Your Highness. But I am sure we can be, let's say, persuasive . . ."
"Are we not, always?" He said with a smug smile.
~WA~
"Why are we stopping here already?" Darcy expected to stop at the Inn to refresh themselves before the party heading to Oxford but was surprised to be entering the grounds of the imposing university.
"We are already late, William. If I am not mistaken, you informed Mr. Tilney we would be here by lunch." Lizzy did not understand his surprise.
"But how . . . You cannot . . . " Darcy eyed her form once more. "You need to change clothing, Lizzy. You are wearing trousers!"
"Oh, William, I am sorry but I do not have any dresses left. I used them all at Pemberley and I am afraid they are soiled." She bit her lip and lowered her head, "I am truly sorry."
How am I to object to that when she looks so sweet? All blushed cheeks and shy eyes. Darcy put his hand under her chin and raised her lips to his. Before the kiss escalated to something more inappropriate, Darcy rested his forehead on hers. "We will sort things out, Lizzy. They would have to see you like this eventually, at least, I will be by your side."
She pulled him into an embrace. How lovely it was to hear him say that he would be by her side. With him, she felt confident. Her fears about not being able to succeed vanished when she had his support. Lizzy was grateful to have this man walking with her.
Fass parked the car and was instructed by Lizzy to remain there. She wanted to evaluate if it would not be too revealing to introduce her assistant to the gentlemen.
As Darcy and Lizzy walked towards the main building, they were greeted by Mr. Tilney and another gentleman that Darcy did not recognize. "Darce, old man, I am pleased you managed to be here this afternoon." Henry directed his attention to Lizzy, observing her attire, "And you, my lovely Miss Bennet, I have heard about your unique attire, but I never expected them to be so flattering."
"Thank you, Mr. Tilney. I am glad to know my clothing meets your approval." Lizzy smiled brightly.
Darcy frowned. He did not like this little interaction between them, not at all, and decided it was time to end the friendly conversation. "Where are your manners, Tilney? Will you not properly introduce your friend to us?"
"Yes, of course. I was just … distracted." Henry was amused; Darcy was obviously attached to Miss Bennet; there was no possible way that he would lose out on such opportunity to tease his always so serious and proper friend. "This is Edmund Bertram, he studied here at Oxford. Edmund, this is Mr. Darcy of Pemberley in Derbyshire, and the so anticipated doctor, Miss Elizabeth Bennet."
"It is an honour to make your acquaintance, Miss Bennet, Mr. Darcy."
"Bertram, you say. Are you related to the former Miss Marianne Dashwood?" Lizzy had almost forgotten she was living in a world where Austen characters were real. Her curiosity was once again peaked.
"Indeed, Miss Bennet, Marianne is my sister-in-law. Are you acquainted with her?" Edmund was very interested in this connection.
"No, I do not know Mrs. Bertram. I met her sister, Mrs. Brandon. We live in the same village. I attended to her health recently. She is with child."
"I see . . . My brother wrote me with the good news of Elinor; She is a remarkable lady and deserves all that is kind." The youngest Bertram brother was very fond of the former Dashwood sisters, he considered both very accomplished and eligible ladies. He was pleased to know that Elinor was in good care.
Lizzy smiled heartily and decided to keep their acquaintance so she could learn a bit more about this Austen's always had a preference towards Mary Crawford, maybe Edmund had some knowledge about that particular lady.
However, now was not the time for this inquiry. They were expected inside the building and Lizzy wished to make a good impression, even though her current state of dress would not help.
As the party ascended the stairs, they were intercepted by a very agitated staff member. The young boy's attempts to explain himself were unsuccessful, he was too unnerved and could not form a proper sentence.
"Boy, calm down, we do not understand what you have to say." Darcy placed his hand upon the boy's shoulder.
"I am sorry, sir. You are expected, I mean all of you, and the lady, of course. I mean especially the lady."
"Where are we expected? By whom?" Henry was at lost as why the boy was acting so uncharacteristically.
"Dear lord, sir. By the Prince Regent!"
The three gentlemen looked at each other in astonishment. Darcy felt Lizzy's hand seek his and give it a tight squeeze. He turned to face her and was shocked by her countenance. Her eyes were wide open and the color drained from her face.
"Are you well, Lizzy?" he asked quietly so only she could hear.
"The Prince Regent, William? How am I to face such an important person? This is not going to end well . . . "
Darcy noticed that Tilney and his friend were engaged in a conversation with the young boy, trying to acquire some reliable information about the Royal's presence in Oxford, so he softly touched Lizzy's cheek, "Do not trouble yourself, dearest. I am here with you, we will face this together. It is very surprising, I must confess that I am not at ease myself, but everything will be well."
Although her heart was beating at an alarming rate, Lizzy tried to calm herself down. "I am sorry, William. I am not insecure like this. Everything is so new, and I am afraid … Well, I am not sure of what I am afraid of."
With a last caress to her face, Darcy dropped his hand and squeezed her hand. They were then taken to face this intriguing visitor.
~WA~
"His Royal Highness, the Prince Regent, George IV." The baritone voice of the servant dressed in royal livery echoed through the large empty room. Lizzy started to bow, but Darcy quickly looked at her and shook his then recalled that women were supposed to curtsy.
The Prince Regent walked slowly and stopped in front of Lizzy. She raised her eyes and locked her gaze with his. "I believe that I was summoned, Your Highness."
"And I believe you must be Miss Bennet, the doctor?" He averted his eyes in disdain and walked to sit on a throne-like chair placed in the middle of the room.
"Indeed, I am." Lizzy took a step closer.
"Well, well. I believe we have much to discuss, Doctor."
A creepy smile formed on his lips causing Lizzy to feel rather uneasy.
"I cannot see what a simple person such as myself could discuss with the royalty," Lizzy said sharply, looking directly into the Prince Regent's eyes.
Darcy, Tilney, and Bertram watched the unspoken war that was unfolding before them, speechless. Henry thought the display rather amusing and was paying extraordinary attention so he could relate the events to his circle in every detail. Edmund was mortified, the lady was not only improperly dressed, but she was defying the Prince Regent. Fitzwilliam was frozen in place.
This is not the moment to be so impertinent, Lizzy! What am I going to do? How am I going to intervene?
But, as a man always used to handling the most burdensome situations, Darcy approached Lizzy, not waiting for an invitation or permission to join the conversation. "I am sure His Highness is curious about your work, Miss Bennet."
Lizzy let out a small breath, blinking repeatedly, and looked at the man standing by her side. His voice brought her back from the haze she had fallen into.
"And you are …?" Prince George gazed, with some annoyance, at the man that had interrupted his conversation.
"I am sorry, Your Highness. I am Fitzwilliam Darcy, of Pemberley in Derbyshire."
"Yes, yes . . . Important estate, Pemberley. I believe you are with the lady?"
"Yes, Your Highness. We are travelling together, with her assistant. I am her guide."
"Very well then." The Prince turned back to Lizzy. "I saw your assistant. I wanted to see the carriage that can make the journey in hours, Doctor, but he would not allow me, the Prince Regent, to do so. Does not the place where you come from fear their superiors?"
"My assistant does not answer to anyone but me, Your Highness. And, as you, sir, pointed out very correctly, we are not from here. He must have not recognized you."
The Prince Regent narrowed his eyes, pursed his lips and let out a humph. . "I could have him arrested. And you also, young lady, for defying the Crown. You are a foreigner, are you not? Where are your papers?"
"I can see you are very interested in my means of transportation," Lizzy smirked.
"You have not answered my question, Miss Bennet." He raised his voice. "You are trying my patience."
"I am just trying to judge how my being in prison would help you obtain a carriage fast enough to cross your lands in hours, not days." Lizzy looked into his eyes and smiled wickedly, "And the carriage, Your Highness, is such a small part of all I am able to do."
"That is what you think, Miss Bennet? That I care about your abilities?" The Prince's wrath was rising rapidly. The strained atmosphere in the room was affecting everyone's mood.
"If you do not, I can always go to France." She spat out the words.
With such an audacious statement, George rose and walked towards Lizzy until he was mere inches from her. "How dare you say this in my presence?" he said through clenched teeth.
"You were threatening my assistant and me with prison when all that you needed to do was to ask me to see my carriage."
Darcy almost grabbed Lizzy and took her out of the room. He knew that underneath her strong façade, she was actually terrified. The way she was breathing, her tightly closed hands leaving her knuckles white, and her the tone of her voice all told him it was all an act..
Suddenly, the Prince Regent took a step back and laughed loudly. "You are one hell of a woman, Miss Bennet. You are not intimidated at all, are you?"
The dark mood that had taken over the room dissipated instantaneously. All present let out a sigh of relief.
"No, I am never intimidated for I know my own self-worth, Your Highness."
"I do like your attitude, Doctor. I feel that we can do great things together." George returned to his chair in a more amiable mood.
"Indeed, I am also of the mind that my knowledge can do great things for England." Lizzy discreetly touched Darcy's hand.
She is still nervous. Dear Lord, let this conversation be over soon! All Darcy wanted to do was take her from this poisonous place.
"So, what exactly are you seeking here, in Oxford?"
"I am here to meet with some of the professors, and discuss some scientifical matters with them."
George waved his hand with disdain, "Yes, we can let the science conversation with them." Again he glared at her. "But I will have eyes on you, everywhere. I must be informed of all your plans."
"Very fair, Your Highness. This is your land, after all."
"Now, I wish to see the carriage." George raised and walked to the door. All the party followed, walking behind him. "Come here, Miss Bennet, by my side. I still have questions for you."
She squeezed Darcy's shoulder and left him to join the Prince.
"For instance, Miss Bennet, your attire is very unique. I had never seen a woman in trousers before." He glanced at her body. "But I rather like it. Where does it come from?"
Lizzy gave him a side look and a mischievous smile. "This is the latest fashion in America."
The Prince laughed heartily. "Indeed, you are a very impertinent young lady."
~WA~
"Are you sure you do not wish to go?" Darcy held her to his chest, caressing her hair. "You seem to be exhausted, dearest."
Elizabeth tightened her grip around his waist and exhaled heavily. To say the day had been trying would be an understatement.
After the battle of powers with the Prince Regent, Lizzy still had to face the scholars and professors. Even when her mind was at rest and up to the task, it was never easy to conceal her secret. In this particular moment, she was tired, her head was pounding, and all she wanted was a warm, comfortable bed.
However, it was not possible to indulge in her wants at the time. Lizzy closed her eyes as she tried to focus on the rest of the day she had ahead. The light reassurance of Darcy's hand on her arm was the flow of strength she needed to carry on.
The rest of the day was filled with endless science talk, with Lizzy trying to convince all the gentlemen of her worthiness to be there. Eventually, they all surrendered, how could they not when provided with such evidence of her superior knowledge of all things discussed?
It was agreed that Oxford would work on the solar energy, but only if under Mr. Tilney's supervision, which did not please the eldest members of the university, but for Lizzy, it was paramount that she had someone close to her looking over this work for she feared the misuse of the technology.
Every detail was, at last, closed, and Darcy reminded Lizzy that they needed to secure rooms at the local inn. However, before they could leave, Tilney extracted a promise from them both to attend to a small dinner at a scholar's home this evening. Too tired to argue, Lizzy agreed and discreetly asked Darcy to leave. She needed a bath and a nap.
The first thing Lizzy asked for once ensconced in the inn was that a bath be drawn and three of her dresses to be cleaned quickly and was happy to hear that they would be delivered within the hour. Lizzy was too tired to inquire about how would they accomplish such a feat. She dismissed the maid who attended her bath so she could let the warmth of the water relax her body. As promised, the dresses were back very quickly. Lizzy then dressed and cautiously left her room, searching for Darcy.
He was standing in the middle of the room, wearing only his breeches and drying his hair when Lizzy entered the room unannounced. She quickly closed the door and leaned against it, he gave her a small smile as he walked to her.
Darcy was torn by the sight of her. He had never seen Lizzy look so tired and defeated. He held her close, hoping that he could share her burdens with him.
"I want to go, William," she told him in a low, soft voice. "I just need to rest. Can I stay here with you?"
"Always." He kissed her deeply and began undoing the buttons of her dress. He had become quite the abigail.
"What are you doing?" She eyed him suspiciously.
"We need to remove your dress, so it does not wrinkle while we take a nap." Darcy held the dress so Lizzy could step out of it, and carefully placed it on a chair. His eyes darkened. These undergarments of yours are going to be my undoing, but not now. You need to recover your energy. He picked her up and placed her on the bed. Darcy laid beside Lizzy, pulling her into his embrace and lips. "How perfectly you fit in my arms, Lizzy. Just perfectly . . . "
She could feel him getting harder. Lizzy knew he would not start anything for he sincerely wanted her to rest, but, in this very moment, she needed him more than she needed rest. Still kissing him, she reached around her back, unhooked her bra, and freed her breasts.
Darcy felt her soft flesh against his chest and broke the kiss, "You are tired, Lizzy. We do not have to . . . "
"I know," she said seeking his lips again, "but I want to."
Not one that would ever deny her anything, Darcy rolled their bodies so he was atop of her. "Are you sure, my sweet Lizzy?"
She closed her eyes and nodded softly.
He cupped her breasts with both hands and watched the effects of his movements on her peeks. Unable to resist, he took her breast in his month. She moaned loudly and he smiled in satisfaction. His hands ran over her body, searching for her last piece of clothing. Darcy raised and quickly removed her panties and his own breeches.
Lizzy's eyes were closed, and she felt his hands parting her legs and his body against her inner thighs anticipating the pleasure to come.
"Open your eyes, my sweet Lizzy. Let me look into these beautiful eyes of yours." She obliged him at the same time he entered her warm center. Darcy caressed her cheeks and lips, thoroughly enjoying her countenance blushed by desire. His pace was heavenly and soon they were both calling out their pleasure.
Darcy 's breathing calmed and he withdrew to lay by her side and Lizzy curled up against him. "Thank you." was all she said before the sleep she so desperately needed took over her body.
~WA~
Lizzy was content. Although it had been a long, eventful day, the evening was presenting itself as an enjoyable affair.
As soon as they arrived, Darcy and Lizzy were greeted by Tilney. Always a flirt, he could not help but compliment the lady to his friend's chagrin. "You look lovely this evening, Miss Bennet. A sight to behold!" He kissed her gloved hand and smiled brightly, watching Darcy's reaction out of the corner of his eyes. He is completely besotted! Who would ever think that the ever stoic Fitzwilliam Darcy was, one day, going to fall on his knees for a woman.
"It is getting rather chilly out here, Tilney. We better move inside at once." Darcy said in an orotund tone. Tilney cleared his throat to avoid bursting into laughter, a Darcy in love was indeed a funny Darcy.
The threesome walked among the other guests, as Henry introduced them to his acquaintances. They finally joined Mr. Bertram and a young couple who were engaged in a lively discussion.
"Miss Bennet, Mr. Darcy. May I introduce you to my companions. These are the Crawford siblings, Miss Mary Crawford and Mr. Henry Crawford."
YES! The Crawfords! Elizabeth did her best to prevent a broad but inappropriate smile from taking over her face. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss and Mr. Crawford."
"And you must be the lady doctor that everyone talks about!" Mary cried in delight. "I was hoping that I could make your acquaintance, Miss Bennet, for I find myself very inspired by the tales I have heard about you."
"I am flattered to hear that I am motive for inspiration, Miss Crawford. But do tell me, why is that?"
"Why, of course, because you are a woman! And so very important! I admire how respected you are, even working in fields of study that are made for men."
"Ma … Miss Crawford, this is not very polite." Edmund hissed at the lady.
"Not at all, Mr. Bertram. I am of the same mind as Miss Crawford. I am trying to enter a man's world after all."
"I also find it quite admirable, Miss Bennet." Mr. Crawford took Lizzy's hand and raised it to his lips. "It is indeed an honour to make your acquaintance, Miss."
Darcy fought the urge to roll his eyes and took on a practiced scowl, annoyed by the fact that everywhere they would go, someone would be lusting after what was supposed to his, and his alone. Before she waltzed into his life, he did not realised how possessive he could be.
This party of six was together most of the evening. The gathering was a surprisingly pleasant evening; Darcy and Lizzy were enjoying themselves immensely.
Lizzy and Mary bonded quickly and were soon telling each other their stories. Mary confided in Lizzy about her relationship with Edmund. She was completely in love with the young man but feared for their future. As a second son, Edmund did not have many options, but Mary still felt he could do more than be a clergyman.
The gentlemen's conversation was around managing lands and new possibilities for improvement. As Crawford did not share the others inclination towards problems with plantations or constructions, he soon left to join a card game. Edmund, Darcy, and Tilney shared almost the same opinions around estate management and the talking flowed easily among them.
As the evening was drawing to a close, Darcy and Lizzy made their goodbyes with promises and hopes to return someday.
Fass was waiting for them at the car. Once inside, Lizzy held Darcy's hand and leaned on his shoulder. "It was a lovely evening, William."
"Indeed, it was." He turned to kiss the top of her head. "You did get along with Miss Crawford, did you not?"
She chuckled, "Yes. She is a lovely lady . . . Oh, and she is also a character from a book."
"I thought so. Your eyes always betray you when you meet a person that signifies something to you."
"Hardly, William. I think it is you that knows me too well, better than any person ever did."
"I am very pleased to hear that, my Lizzy."
Lizzy always felt an inexplicable happiness when he said 'my Lizzy'. It was the sweetest thing anyone ever called her. "Mr. Bertram seems to be a very intelligent gentleman, does he not?"
"I agree, Lizzy. I was very impressed with him. We are of the same mind in many aspects, and when we would disagree, in all situations he made a good defense of his point of view. He does have an inclination to land management, it is a shame that he happens to be a second son."
Lizzy looked up, thinking deeply for a moment. "Isn't being a stewart somehow a degrading position for you society, William?"
Darcy wondered about her question. He would not consider being a stewart a bad position, it was quite the opposite. "I do not think so Lizzy. I guess that being the steward of a large estate would be a very good position. Why do you ask?"
"Wouldn't Mr. Bertram be a good steward for Pemberley then? Are you not having troubles with your current one?"
Darcy raised her head to look into her eyes. "You are right, as always, Miss Bennet."
"Why, thank you, Mr. Darcy." She closed the distance between them to give him a kiss. She felt a wave of lightheartedness take over her. She knew how important this man was, but yet he was there, by her side, considering and valuing her opinions, discussing them with her. How could she be so lucky? Lizzy caressed his face as she whispered. "Thank you, William."
"For what, Lizzy?"
She shook her head, biting her lower lip. "Just thank you." Lizzy tangled her hand into his hair and pulled him to another kiss, ending any further discussion.
~WA~
A/N: So here we have, Mansfield Park as I always wanted to see! Next chapter we will finally have the REAL (?) Elizabeth! What will she be like? Any guesses?
Leave thoughts and 'get better soon' wishes in comments!
Thank you all for reading!