It is with a heavy heart that I post the last chapter of The Doll. It is actually the first book I've ever finished and it is with a great sense of accomplishment that I post this last offering.
Thank you all for your support, your criticism and your compliments (sometimes all from the same quarter). I feel like I've come home posting here.
I am working on two other stories - one regency / one modern - so hopefully I'll begin with that one soon.
Chapter11 - The End
"If Pemberley were my home, little one, I would never leave it." Elizabeth said joining Georgie at the restaurant for lunch. As she slid into their normal booth, their familiar waitress waived in her direction before returning with their drinks.
"I come bearing gifts from your brother and I!" Elizabeth pulled the first of several items she had purchased during her whirlwind romantic vacation. "I saw these and knew you'd love them." They were a pair of sapphire earrings the exact shade of blue as Georgie's eyes that she had found when Darcy and she had explored the small shops on Santorini. "I also got you a new sketch book." The book was covered in smooth leather and had a clasp that kept the pages secure from the elements. That was from Germany. "Every girl needs one of these." She held up a slinky nightgown purchased during their time in Paris. "You should have seen what your brother intended to buy you. I swear I think he likes to think that you are still twelve years old."
Silently, Georgie accepted the gifts with a forced smile. Elizabeth had to admit she was somewhat disappointed in the reaction. She had expected an outpouring of enthusiastic thanks. At the very least, an inquiry into how the vacation had gone. Demands to hear ALL about the trip. Just when she was about to ask what was wrong, there was an outpouring of tears.
"Oh, Elizabeth, it is so terrible. I can't pretend it isn't."
"What's terrible?" Concerned, she left her side of the booth to join her friend in hers. She wrapped an arm around her and began rocking the younger girl from side to side. "I'm sure whatever it is, if we put our heads together, we can find a way to get through it. Is it a guy?"
Elizabeth hoped for Darcy's sake it wasn't. He had confided that he never liked any of his sister's boyfriends. She strongly suspected he felt no man was good enough for his 'little girl.'
"I wish it was something so easy." Georgie dabbed at her eyes with her napkin.
"Then, what is it?" Elizabeth hoped for her sake it wasn't about money. If it was, she knew she'd offer to help. She just prayed her nest egg was big enough to cover whatever it was. "Is something wrong with your business?"
"No, it's not that." Georgie blew her nose, laughing through her tears. "You have to help, Lizzy." She looked at Elizabeth with big, wide blue eyes. "It's gotten so bad that Aunt Matilda has even made Uncle Paul sleep on the couch."
"That sounds like something my mom would do."
Georgie frowned. "I think she may have given Matilda the idea."
Awareness dawned. Elizabeth finally understood. Her mother must have really misbehaved during the book reading. The Senator and his wife were fighting over something Fanny had done. She started out cautiously, "I'm really not sure what I can do about my mom giving your aunt ideas - I'll speak to her, but I wouldn't hold out much hope I can influence here."
"Your mom?" Georgie shut her eyes. "It's not your mom that's the problem, it's Will!"
"Will?" Elizabeth tried to figure out his connection to her mother. She was utterly confused.
Georgie threw her hands up, continuing, "It takes a lot to upset Will, but once he is angry it takes a long time before he can forgive. Lizzy, I don't want a rift in our family."
"Rift?" Elizabeth felt she must have taken a wrong turn somewhere. "Whatever are you talking about?"
The young girl's hysterics stopped suddenly as if someone had thrown a switch.
She searched Elizabeth's face. "You didn't know." A hand flew to her mouth, then the tears started again. "Oh my God, my brother is going to kill me. Absolutely kill me."
"Will is not going to kill you!" Elizabeth patted her hand reassuringly. "Now, tell me what all of this is about?"
Georgie sipped her beverage, looking troubled. She seemed rather reluctant to continue now that it was apparent Elizabeth knew nothing of what she was upset about.
"You have to know that I love you like a sister already. Anyone that Will loves like he loves you can only be worth my regard. My brother would never give his heart away to someone unworthy."
Elizabeth was starting to get a little annoyed at this hero worship thing his sister had going. She had a feeling that by the end of this conversation she would want to strangle one, if not both, of the Darcy siblings. She struggled for patience. "Georgie, I know you adore your brother and I know you value my friendship. Please tell me what has happened to upset you so badly."
Georgie looked unsure, but then she sighed like a deflating balloon. "At the benefit, Will had a fight with Uncle Paul and Richard about you."
Elizabeth felt like she had swallowed a lead bowling ball. She had suspected that something was wrong. The phone calls Darcy wouldn't answer; the argument with his sister. Her disappointment was real. She had thought they had progressed further than keeping secrets from one another.
"Aunt Matilda knew right away after you left that there was a problem. She grilled uncle and he told her. He said that he'd never seen Will as obstinate and mad in his entire life."
"Why were they arguing about me, Georgie?"
"They don't think you're right for my brother. They think - " Elizabeth fought her urge to shake the young woman, "they think you're mercenary. In fact, Richard was convinced that you are using Will to get the money for your restaurant. Once you got the money you needed to get the business started, you will simply leave and break my brother's heart."
Elizabeth's mouth fell open.
"Uncle Paul even suggested that you were lining up investors in case Will didn't work out."
"Whatever would give him that idea?"
"When you were dancing with that other man at the benefit." George chewed her lip. "I admit I was a little concerned when I saw you dancing with him too. Will was clearly jealous and when you guys had your disagreement at the table I was worried."
Elizabeth had completely forgotten about Vince and their fight. While it had only been seven weeks ago, her memory of that night had been rather isolated on only the good memories of it. But as she had pointed out herself, Darcy's behavior that night when he arrived at the event did little to endear her to his relatives. She had practically been sprung on them without any notice whatsoever.
Georgie looked uncomfortable as silence descended at the table. "When you guys returned from going outside, it was clear how you felt about each other. I don't know why they refuse to acknowledge what is so plain for everyone to see. You and my brother are deeply in love with one another. I knew it from the first time I saw you together."
Elizabeth did not contradict her friend. What did it matter when it happened? Now, she was in love with Darcy. Madly.
"Uncle Paul told Aunt Matilda that a woman who looked like you did would not be interested in someone who fiddled around in a lab. You'd crave excitement."
Elizabeth was incensed and almost told Georgie that her brother was the most exciting man she had ever encountered in her life. That was not a topic she should discuss with his sister.
"What did you brother say to that?"
"Will told them he could not speak for your feelings, but that he loved you more than any man has ever loved a woman." Georgie got that gooey look she often got.
Elizabeth blushed. "I have a hard time believing he told them that."
"Oh, he did. Uncle Paul told Aunt Matilda verbatim because he said it illustrated how badly you had my brother ensnared. She thought it was the most romantic thing she had ever heard." Georgie looked troubled. "She told him perhaps my uncle needed to spend more time trying to romance his wife instead of butting into his nephew's business. He told her that Will was an integral part of his reelection campaign so it was important that he was kept happy."
"Ah, I see how he ended up on the couch now."
Georgie nodded solemnly. "Richard, of course, defended his father, saying that Will would feel sorry when you took him to the cleaners. That he wouldn't be so high and mighty when you crushed his heart."
Elizabeth rubbed her brow. As much as she wanted to deny it, the fact that Darcy's uncle and cousin had leapt to the conclusions they had was not entirely unexpected. She looked to Georgie. "What do you expect me to do?"
"I don't know." The girl admitted, eyes glassing over. "They regret it, Lizzy. They never imagined that Will would hold such a grudge. That he would shut them completely out of his life. They regret their comments. They have tried to apologize to Will, but he will not have any of it." She began crying again, "Yesterday, my brother finally took my uncle's call. He offered to apologize directly to you, but Will would not hear of it. I understand now why. Will told my uncle that he made him choose and he chose you. He'd always choose you. No further communication was required."
Tears flooded Elizabeth's eyes. That he'd willingly sacrifice his connection to his only family for her touched her. He truly would do anything for her. She could not help but remember the hints of sadness in his eyes when they were on their vacation. It was time that she sacrifice something for him.
*(*
In the middle of the night, Elizabeth woke Darcy to make love. He was usually the one to initiate sex, but for the last two weeks since they returned to New York, he had been the happy recipient of her energetic endeavors. He was not going to complain. Not one little bit. In fact, Darcy decided coming fully awake, it was time for a little well deserved reciprocation. Drowsily, he reached for her only to discover her side of the bed was empty.
Before he had time to ponder her whereabouts, Elizabeth appeared wearing the dress shirt she had removed from him the previous night carrying a breakfast tray. The sexy smile that curved her lips when she saw he was awake affected him profoundly.
"What's all this?" He asked. She'd never made him breakfast in bed before.
"This," she leaned in lightly touching her lips to his before pulling back, "is your birthday breakfast. Happy Birthday, Will!"
He blinked through confused sleep. How had he forgotten his own birthday? She took a linen napkin off the tray, carefully placed it on his lap, where it tented impressively over his erection. Elizabeth arranged the tray over his legs, sat on the edge of the bed and proceeded to feed him forkfuls of syrupy French toast with powdered sugar and fresh strawberries.
When he was full, he moved the tray out of their way before pulling her in for a lingering kiss. Strawberry Elizabeth. Mmm. Giving her an appraising look, it was clear from her flushed cheeks, she knew he had plans for her. Prowling forward, he covered her body with his, ready to continue where their exhausted bodies had previously left off in the wee hours in the morning.
"I believe, Ms. Bennet, that this belongs to me." He began opening the buttons of the pilfered shirt. "And, I want it back."
After he removed her only piece of clothing, Elizabeth giggled as he ran his scruffy cheek along her belly and rib cage touching as many sensitive spots as he could with her wriggling underneath him. He could not resist the temptation and reached for the used breakfast tray, lifting the small cup of syrup from the tray, before he tipped it. The warm liquid dripped on her breasts, before sliding lower.
He adopted an innocent look, "Oops." He returned the empty cup, content to watch the amber liquid slide from her peaks to nestle in her valleys.
"You've made quite a mess, Mr. Darcy."
"Quite a mess!" He agreed as he pondered her body. "I guess I am just going to have to clean it up."
She gasped audibly when he began by lapping at her belly button. When he looked at her, her eyes glowed with arousal. Satisfied he had her attention, using his tongue as a cloth he began to follow the sweet trail up her abdomen, before traveling up the soft curve of her sticky breast, spending time nestling at her nipple. He was determined to do a thorough job, cleansing every luscious inch of her.
Elizabeth was squirming, trying to half heartedly escape, Darcy pinned her arms to the bedspread thwarting her. If her heavy breathing was any indication, they were going to have fun this morning. She started twisting against him, her curves bumping against him in the most inviting of ways. That keening sound she made when she was close to losing it had started. Oh, yes, lots of fun.
"What about the sheets, Will?"
"We'll buy more." He spread her with a practiced hand, before pushing into her waiting wetness. Feeling her was his first and only priority. How good it felt to be joined with her! There would be no rushed to pleasure this morning. No matter how she begged in her frenzy, he craved a sedate pace. It was difficult not to rush forward, Elizabeth could be quite pornographic when she set her mind to it. It was terribly erotic when she was a dirty girl.
But for once, he would not surrender his wishes to hers. It was his birthday, he told himself, he should be able to have her any way he wanted her. If he was very lucky and played his cards right, she would be a present he was blessed to unwrap for all the birthdays he had left on this earth.
*)*
Shortly Elizabeth's ego-inflating climax, he pulled her from their bed to shower with him. He might have missed some spots after all. He was only looking out for her well being. She evolved in the water. Sticky Elizabeth became Soapy Elizabeth. Washing her, with considerable attention, seemed to get him all worked up all over again until he gave her what she most wanted. A frantic taking against the shower wall.
After they dried off, Elizabeth fled from his arms laughing, wearing his oversized robe telling him to get dressed while she made his lunch or he was going to be late for work. He dressed before joining her in the kitchen where she was completing her morning routine of getting him ready for work. His heart filled hearing her humming happily.
Eyeing him, Elizabeth declared, "You have to be home on time tonight for the rest of your surprise."
"Rest of my surprise?" Darcy put his hands on her waist, as she smoothed her hands over his shoulders. How could one simple gesture make him feel special? Cared for? Loved?
"Yes. And, only if you are on time and pleasant company at dinner, can you enjoy your other presents." Elizabeth handed him his morning paper to take with him since there was no time to read it. "And, trust me, you'll like them way more than you did your breakfast this morning."
"I don't know how anything could top breakfast this morning." The certainty in her gaze made him want these other mystery presents she was referring to. Badly. He licked his suddenly dry lips, "I just have to come home on time and be pleasant at dinner?" Both things were easy to do.
Elizabeth nodded.
Before Darcy could be distracted from leaving for work, she handed him his cell phone and his glasses. Lunch in hand, he submitted to the rest of their morning ritual, her customary kiss at the front door. No longer on his cheek but flat on his lips. This morning, she even slipped him a little tongue before turning him to the door and smacking him roughly on his rump.
"Have a great day at the office, honey!"
*)*
An hour later sitting behind his desk, Darcy found himself grinning stupidly at the small collection of photos of her. The one snapped at the benefit had been joined by one of them kissing on top of the Eiffel Tower. The last was of her in a bikini, sitting on the bow of the Euclid, smiling at him in that enchanting way she had. The clear blue of the water in the background emphasized the healthy bronze of her skin.
Sighing, he lifted that picture and leaned back in his chair.
They had spent four perfect days on Santorini, being warmed under a glorious, Grecian sun. Those days had given him a whole new appreciation for his father's motivation to purchase the Darcy Villa. How he longed to return there with her! Those idyllic days were the favorite of his vacation.
Upon arriving in Santorini, the two traveled to the marina at Vlychada, where his yacht, the Euclid was docked. He introduced Elizabeth to Captain Martine and the rest of his staff before they made their way to the master suite. After so much practice, they unpacked quickly before an impatient Elizabeth drug him out on the deck to look at the remarkable view.
They killed time watching boats skitter off across the distant crystalline water of the Aegean Sea before they wondered hand and hand to the small tavern where they were to meet up with the Bingleys. Her eyes had twinkled with the anticipation at the prospect of seeing her much missed sister and she had stopped him several times to tell him how wonderful he was for bringing her here. To see Jane. Seeing her undeniable happiness made him glad he had diverted them here, giving her this time with her sister.
Darcy'd would never forget Jane's expression when she locked eyes on Elizabeth. The reserved woman sprang from her seat, rushed across the floor, nearly strangled her sister by hugging her tightly, being uncharacteristically demonstrative in her enthusiasm. Tears flowed freely down the faces of both women while Charles and he hung back watching the reunion.
Lunch was composed from the delicacies of the island, exotic mixtures of fish, tomatoes, and, of course, lobster spaghetti. Conversation flowed naturally between the couples, comparing vacation notes, discussing past dinners. It was decided that when the newlywed's returned to the states, that their Monday night dinners would resume with only one change. Since Elizabeth cooked, it made sense that the dinners be moved from the Bingley's apartment to Darcy's penthouse.
Elizabeth had brought the pictures they had discovered in Germany and looking through them made both women reminiscent about their beloved grandmother. Not to be outdone, Jane had shown them the pictures she had taken from the deck of the Euclid during their trip from Pemberley to Greece. When it was proposed they do a little site seeing of the remains of the medieval castle near Amoudi Bay by Charles, the group readily agreed. The women insisted they needed to freshen up before setting out, leaving the men alone.
"So," Charles said finishing the beer he had nursed through his meal. "You and Lizzy seem to be getting along like a house on fire."
"In a manner of speaking." Darcy could not help the grin that accompanied his words. Charles had no idea exactly how hot things were between them.
His friend drummed a finger on the table. "You know Elizabeth is my sister by marriage now. As such, I demand to know, what are your intentions toward her?"
Darcy had been so alone with his own council that it felt good to be able to share with someone. "I assure you, Charles, I have only the most honorable of intentions toward Elizabeth."
His answer had clearly not been expected, sitting his friend back in his seat stunned.
"You understand, I have to speak to her father first." Darcy held his friend's gaze a long time. He only intended to do this once. He wanted to make sure it was done right. Elizabeth valued her father deeply. He would not offend the man by ignoring him his due.
"Are you sure about this?" Shock covered Charles' features. "Marriage is a big step, Will. You're moving rather fast, aren't you?"
It would seem that way to others, Darcy reflected. However, his heart had been surrendered to her so long ago, it felt it had taken a lifetime to get this far. He longed to bind her to him. He wanted her to take his name. Share her life with him. But, would she think it was too fast? Would she want to slow down? Would she think he was being impulsive? He looked to his friend, feeling somewhat desperate, "I need her Charles. I can no longer imagine my life without her."
"That's how I feel about Jane. Like I'd stop breathing if she did." Charles shook his head, then grinned. "Go to it man!"
He was grateful for such support. "I have your blessing then?"
The doctor laughed. "Do you need my blessing?"
"No, but I'd like it all the same."
"Oh, you have it!" His friend became serious. "Before seeing Elizabeth with you today, I would have thought it more likely you'd be tearing each others' heads off if you had to be in each others' company, but clearly you've detoured to tearing each others' clothes off."
Darcy laughed happily.
The sisters returned to them. The foursome wondered the remains of the castle, before the women drug them to the shops that surrounded the small tavern where they dined for some retail therapy. For all the sisters had to catch up on, Darcy found it amusing that he and Charles were basically ignored.
That night, after parting from the Bingleys with plans to spend the following day on the Euclid, they readied for bed. After hinting strongly about what he wanted, Darcy was rather surprised when Elizabeth uncharacteristically resisted his attention.
Yawning widely, she looked at him with a sleepy smile. "Raincheck?"
Of course, Darcy had been disappointed, but he could not very well pout about it. It was the first time on their vacation they had not spent the evening engaged in pleasurable pursuits, but her comfort was more important than his seemingly, unquenchable lust for her. Molding her against his chest, he entertained her with stories his father had told him when he was a boy, telling her about the rumors that Santorini was actually the impetuous for Plato's mythical island of Atlantis.
Elizabeth hung on for some time listening to him, peppering him with questions, joking about togas, mermaids and underwater Cracken, drawing nautical figures on his chest. Finally, he felt her body soften against him as sleep took her. He joined her in slumber, wrapping an arm around her, his hand absently opening across her smooth abdomen.
The following morning, Elizabeth woke him in his most favorite way. All mouth and hands. His disappointment the previous night incinerated by the furious demands of her hips. Sweaty and satisfied, she had collapsed on his chest.
"I hope that made up for last night, Will."
Darcy felt slightly dizzy. She had literally rocked his world. "If this is how I'm going to be rewarded in the morning, you can go to sleep undisturbed early every night."
"Men are so very predictable." She laughed, running a hand along his member. "A little attention here and I am forgiven any trespass."
"You are so raunchy." He spanked her lightly before rolling them to where she was underneath him. He warned her, "If we were not expecting company right now, I would punish you by tasting you until you forget your own name."
"Sounds like an empty threat. After all, you said something similar the night of the benefit and nothing ever happened."
Obviously, Elizabeth was of the mind to tease him most unmercifully. She insisted they shower separately so he would not get any more ideas with company on the way. When she appeared on the deck some time later, wearing only a sky blue bikini he knew he looked as dumbstruck as the two male, staff members serving them breakfast. She insisted before he started fishing with Charles that he apply her sun tan lotion. She didn't want to burn after all, she told him over her shoulder. He knew she was toying with him, testing his resolve in company. During lunch, under the concealment of the table, she had run her fingers along his knees, touched his thighs, raked his crotch. Only to have him, after the meal was cleared, to reapply a second coat of lotion to her thirsty skin while the men continued their efforts on the opposite side of the boat. He was beyond keyed up, forced to behave in company.
When the Bingleys returned to the villa and they were alone once more, Darcy let her know they were dining in their bedroom. Dinner was consumed. Then, Elizabeth was. He delivered on his promise, spending hours tasting her until she could no longer deny his mastery of her body. She had been exhausted by her body's response to him and she had drifted off into contented sleep.
When she woke, Elizabeth convinced him to swim with her in the warm waters of the ancient caldera. It was night built for romance. Every star in the galaxy, it seemed, had turned out to light their way, encouraging them. They spent a long time playing in the water like children, before they returned to their bed to play more adult games.
Exhausted again, she had she ran her hands through his curls, staring up at him thoughtfully.
"I love it when you smile, Will. I just love it." She drew a fingertip down to the dimple in his cheek. Her eyes flickered to his. "And, I love you."
For one horrible minute, Darcy feared he was dreaming. It had happened more than once on the trip where he'd awaken startled and confused in the middle of the night, scared the last few months with her had been a dream constructed by his fevered imagination. Each time he had reached out and found her with his hand, he had been bathed in such intense relief.
"Say it again." He wanted to hear it again now that he was prepared to.
"I love you, William." She stared straight into his eyes. For once, she was the serious one. There was no trace of her usual humor.
Darcy had never felt such heartfelt delight in his life. He expressed himself in the only way he could, by loving her flesh gently until they both could no longer deny their satisfaction.
Even now, the memory of her declaration could still overwhelm him. Move him.
Sighing, Darcy put her picture back on his desk, knowing he needed to get back to work. If today was not the day that the DARPA finalists were being announced, he would have simply called Mrs. Reynolds and enjoyed his birthday with Elizabeth in bed.
Not that she was making his decision to stay at work any easier.
He scrolled through her messages she had sent him since he arrived at work. Each message began the same. He had to be home on time, not early and not late, and he had to be pleasant company. If he could manage both, he would get his other presents. Pictures were sent as hints.
The first was her holding a fishing pole wearing a bucket hat. The next was of her leg in what looked like fishnet stocking in a black high heel. He got that while he was in the lab and he nearly knocked over his coffee. The snapshot of a pair of crotch-less panties came during his meeting and made him completely loose his train of thought for several minutes. Until he shook his head and had to ask Mrs. Reynolds to remind him where he had left off.
Darcy considered the calendar on his phone scrolling through the upcoming months. Maybe they could return to Santorini for a few days after the Harvest Festival. In just the two weeks since they returned to New York, Darcy was surprised at how much Elizabeth had accomplished in such a short time. She was developing long distance friendships with several key members of the Lambton society, all who were excited about bringing the Festival back to life.
He remembered watching his father dress for the Harvest Festival. They had been talking, for some reason, about the tradition of the Darcy engagement ring.
"But, the same ring?" As a twelve year old boy, he remembered not understanding the significance when his father had tried to explain about the importance of the tradition.
"Yes, the same ring. It has been passed down from the head of the family to his son for generations. It is symbolic. Love against odds. A man's need to humble himself. The never ending circle of life. The hope of a family. Continuation of our line."
He had been confused, "Don't other rings mean the same thing?"
His father had fixed his cufflink before sharpening his focus on his son. "It's charmed, son."
Darcy was not amused his father was toying with him. He had asked for a serious response. "I don't believe in charms or fairytales, dad."
His father had almost looked sad at such a pronouncement. "I hope you find someone who will make you believe in them someday." Sighing, his father continued, "Since Fitzwilliam Darcy slid the ring on his wife's finger, no Darcy male has been rejected by his intended."
"So, it is a stupid superstition." As a child, he liked putting information in its place.
"Maybe." His father had laughed. "Personally, I wanted every advantage on my side when I asked your mother to join her trough to mine. There was no guarantee that she would have me. When it is your turn, Will, you can do as you wish."
Superstition or not, Darcy found he wanted to retrieve the ring. Like his father before him, he wanted every advantage too. There was no guarantee Elizabeth would have him either.
The phone on his desk rang. "Mr. Darcy," Mrs. Reynolds announced, "I have Mr. Yamamoto on the line from the DARPA competition." The expected call was put through.
As he received the news, the final picture of the day came from Elizabeth to his cell. Checking, it was a picture of her pulling at a garter that fit high and snug on her thigh, crooking a finger in his direction.
*(*
When Elizabeth greeted Darcy at the door, she immediately saw a huge error in her plans for the evening. He'd barely stepped a toe into the living room before he picked her up bodily, spun her, pressed her flush against the door. His lips were locked on hers before she could issue any type of warning. Normally such a greeting would have been welcome, even encouraged, but not today. No, not with their awkward and nervous audience.
"I have been thinking about you all day." Darcy whispered roughly against her neck. "Is it too much to ask that we postpone dinner? I want you so badly, Elizabeth, I promise I won't need long."
She was glad he was whispering in that low, guttural voice that did not carry.
She was finally able to ground out, "Will, honey, we have guests - "
Confused, Darcy froze, turned, lowered her slowly to the floor. Seeing their dinner guests, all expression drained from his face. It was clear he was not pleased in the slightest. To her, he said quietly, "Elizabeth, we need to talk in private for a moment."
After giving those gathered a confident smile, she followed his lead to their bedroom, readying herself for the fight that was to come. Darcy shut the door behind them and leaned against it blocking her escape. She wondered which he wanted more. To hold onto his implacable anger or to have a nice evening surrounded by mistaken, but well meaning relatives.
"There is a lot I will allow you," his voice was tight with apparent anger, "but I don't like being managed in this way."
Not a promising start, but not wholly unexpected either. Elizabeth crossed her arms. "Perhaps I wouldn't have tried to 'manage' you if you had 'managed' to tell me about what happened the night of the benefit."
Darcy ran a hand through his hair. He was trying to collect himself before speaking. She realized that. He didn't want to say something that would upset her. She lowered her arms, realizing she needed to be calm for this fight. She took a deep breath, "I don't want there to be secrets between us, Will. Even if you think you are keeping me in the dark to protect me."
He pushed away from the door, pacing. "Obviously, you know what was said. I don't know how they got to you, but they must have."
"Does that really matter?"
Darcy shot her a dark look. She could not betray Georgie's involvement in her plan fearing that he would become upset with his sister. "What they said was unpardonable."
"Both have apologized to me."
His jaw tightened. "I can't just simply sit at a table with them and pretend the words were never uttered. I will not let anyone abuse you."
"I understand." She stated simply. "But, you cannot fault them for being suspicious."
He moved to her, pressed a hand against her cheek. "You are everything good and fine. You have such a large and loving heart. They don't know who you are, Elizabeth, if they could say such ugly, contemptible things - "
"That's just it. They don't know me." She pointed out. "If you consider what they know, it is no wonder they reacted the way they did."
"What do you mean?" He questioned.
"Think about it from their side, Will. How would you have reacted if Georgie just sprung it on you one day that she was shacking up with a guy? A guy that you had never met before. Oh, and by the way, they had been dating seven months without you knowing anything about him?"
Darcy looked as if he was slapped. He did not have a response. He had not been expecting such questions from her.
"Then, the first time you meet him, this unknown man is dancing with another woman? Add to it your sister is upset and clearly jealous of this other woman." She looked at him with compassion. "Their first impression of me could not have been a good one, Will. They saw us fight. You accused me of cheating on you right in front of them. Of course, they would be suspicious of me. That they thought I was bad for you? That I would hurt you?"
He frowned, but he was considering her words. "I still can't forgive their insult of you."
"I see." Elizabeth re-crossed her arms and tapped her foot. "I am going to ask that you go back into that room and join them for dinner. They want to celebrate your birth, Will. I'm asking you to allow them to. I'm asking that you do this for me."
He looked as if he had tasted something repugnant. "It pleases me greatly that you would undertake such a burden for me. That it is important to you that there is no argument between me and my family. That you love me so well that - "
She lifted her chin. "Good. I'm glad we've come to an agreement."
He shut his eyes and blew out a breath. Running a hand up the back of his neck, he cast a worried look her way. "Alright, you win. Since it would appear that there is a rift between us if I don't, I will sit down to eat dinner with them. I'll do it for you. Not them. Because you want this."
She sagged in relief.
"But," he turned serious again. "I will not sit idly by if they mean to tell me what is good for me. I'm a grown man. I can make those types of decisions for myself. I have made my decision. And, if they cannot accept that, they will be shown the door." Gently, he cupped her face in his hands. "Elizabeth, I will not be moved from these points. I will not have you disrespected in your own home. Do you understand?"
She nodded, almost overcome. To be championed so by him made her insides quiver. She threw herself against him, kissing him roughly. When she pulled back, she was pleased to see the fire had returned to his eyes. "After every one leaves tonight, I intend to dress up for you, put on a show for you." She chewed on her lip. "I even have a garter you could take off or put on, whatever you want.."
He looked at her, the bed and then the door to the bedroom before saying, "Are you sure I can't just tell everyone they are forgiven, throw everyone out and have my way with you?"
*)*
When they returned to their guests, Senator Pool did not hesitate to approach his nephew. "Happy birthday, Will. I wanted to take this opportunity to apologize for my behavior the night of the benefit. I was out of line. I want you to know it will not happen again. I have made my apologies to Elizabeth and she has graciously forgiven me."
She watched the struggle on Darcy's face, before he nodded. "See that it doesn't, uncle."
Richard was next. "Believe it or not, I only voiced my concerns out of brotherly affection." His blue eyes tracked to Elizabeth. "I would blame my behavior on being drunk, but that is no excuse. I want you to know that I've taken your suggestion from that night. I've be back in AA since a week after the benefit."
"That's wonderful news, Richard. I'm glad you are getting the help you need. If our disagreement helped you," he sighed reluctantly, "I am glad to see you here. I'm glad we are no longer quarreling."
Elizabeth would be surprised if Darcy ever mentioned the disagreement again unless he was pressed on the issue. This was his family. They loved him. She was glad they did. She was glad he was not all alone in the world. Not an island onto himself.
As the family caught up on everything since their disagreement separated them, Elizabeth slunk off to the kitchen to check the progress of her dinner. She wanted everything to be perfect. She checked on the tenderloin and made the finishing touches on the tossed greens and grape salad. She didn't want the gathered guests to wait too long before they started eating. A part of her worried that someone might say something indelicate and they might stumble their way into another disagreement.
"Do you need any help?" Aunt Catherine had wondered away from the others.
"No, I think I have it covered. We should be ready in a few more minutes. I hope you are hungry. I made enough food for an army."
The old woman glanced with interest about the kitchen. Elizabeth knew she was taking in the changes that her presence had wrought. Catherine picked up the lid of the HERS cookie jar, sniffed at it. Reaching inside, she retrieved a freshly baked snicker doodle. It was strange but Elizabeth had gotten a hankering for them only that afternoon. She usually hated them.
Nibbling on the treat, the older woman nodded, saying, "These are quite good."
"Thank you."
The older woman tilted her head as Will's laughter could be heard coming from the dining room. "You know we worried for him."
Elizabeth tightened the bow on her apron. It was a nervous habit. This woman had a way of making her feel like she was ten years old playing house. "Oh?"
"Will." As if there was ever a question as to the identity of 'him.' Old, wise, clear blue eyes fell on her. "He's brilliant. No question. However, he was letting life pass him by. I had hopes that Cheryl might do for him. They were both scientists. It seemed on the surface like they had shared interests, but she never seemed to make any headway. None have. Until you." She put the lid back on the jar, wiping her hands on her slacks. "I want to thank you for making this dinner happen. We are only concerned about his happiness."
Elizabeth swallowed never dreaming she would be saying such to his aunt. "His happiness is more important to me than my own."
The stranger clasped at her neck, closing her eyes. "Forgive me. That sounds like something my sister would have said about Will's father." The older woman surprised her by tearing up. "You're going to be very good for him." She shook her head, correcting, "It is abundantly clear that you are good for him."
The oven buzzer went off ending their conversation.
Dinner went better than Elizabeth could have imagined. Darcy sat at the head of the table while she sat at the other end. Richard sat to his left and Georgie to his right. It reminded her a great deal of the dinners at her home growing up complete with talk about sex. Matilda entertained the table with her mother's exploits at the book reading. While the Senator and Georgie appeared shocked, Elizabeth quipped, "All in all, it sounds like mom behaved herself."
Matilda laughed. "That was her behaving herself?"
"Yes." She laughed, "Believe me. You have no idea, Matilda. Trust me."
Senator Pool wiped his mouth joining the conversation, "You mother is a fantastic, though misguided woman politically."
"She is quite fantastic." She was proud of her mom, being brave to embrace the lifestyle she wanted, firm in her belief system. " With regards to politics, she said the same about you."
The Senator chuckled at the retort, "Touché."
"I was thinking that I would like to add her to a committee I'm putting together about women's rights and gender identity." Matilda questioned, "Do you think she'd join me?"
"You'd have to ask her." Elizabeth shrugged. "My mom is kind of a free spirit. She just might as much as she might not."
Richard asked after her plans for her restaurant when he was filling his plate for a second time. She explained that she had decided against it. She was just going to try catering for a while.
"Catering?" He let her know around a mouth full of food, "My firm has a customer appreciation event in September for our most important clients. If we hire you to cater the event, it would help get your name out to the financial and real estate industries. I'll get you some specifics about the event and send them to Will. Get me a quote I'll see what I can do. Your cooking is quite delicious."
"Her Mexican is pretty good too." Darcy teased. She shot him a dirty look across the table that made him chuckle.
Georgie added, "You should try her spinach lasagna, Richard. It is out of this world."
Aunt Catherine joined the conversation, "I heard my nephew took you to Pemberley on your vacation. What do you think about the little family estate?"
She saw Darcy stiffen, but answered the question without any trace of malice. "It truly is the most beautiful place in the world."
"Speaking of Pemberley," Darcy let those gathered know, "I have decided it is time to revive the Harvest Festival tradition. With Elizabeth's help of course. She has agreed to organize it for me."
"Really, Will?" Georgie gushed, "Oh, that is so wonderful. Can I help, Lizzy? I have a lot of friends in Paris that could come over for the Ball. Maybe next year, we could sell gowns for the event to raise money."
"We'd like to help too." Senator Pool offered to her amusement. "Since Downtown Abbey has been on, several of our contemporaries are in love with everything English. I'm sure your mother and father will assist us in attracting some interesting guests, Lizzy."
The rest of the dinner was spent discussing past Festivals. Elizabeth could literally feel the breach healing within the family surrounding the table. Matilda and Catherine both said they would send her pictures of past festivals so she could get a visual of the ones from the past.
When it was time for his cake, Elizabeth gathered some plates from the table to make room. His hand closed over hers stopping her momentarily. He glanced up at her and she soaked in the contented look on his face. For the first time since the benefit, his face seemed utterly free of worry.
"Thank you, Elizabeth." His eyes conveyed the full scope of his meaning.
Elizabeth returned with her cake, made from scratch just that afternoon. Darcy had stated her Grandmother's Bundt Cake had been his favorite of all her deserts and she had wanted to make something special to celebrate his special day. Seeing it, she knew he was recalling their time in Germany. She felt her cheeks heat at her own memories of their short passionate trip to the bed and breakfast.
Those gathered sang the traditional song to him as his candles flickered. Elizabeth did not imagine it. He stared only at her as he blew them out. As was his due as the birthday boy, she removed the candles, carved the cake and served him the first piece. When he took the plate from her, his fingers brushed hers, and she felt the jolt of electricity. Again, their eyes met. Again, she felt her face heat. She quickly moved to serve the others.
Gifts were opened. Georgie got him a new pen set and some dress shirts. The Senator and Matilda brought him several bottles of wine from a special, rare vintage Darcy recognized and enjoyed as a favorite. Richard had gotten him a new gulf club. It was evidentially some sort of gag gift that was a running joke between the two men. It's presence just further cemented the thawing of relations.
Elizabeth's present had been saved for last. He eyed her shaking the box for effect before he carefully opened it. Inside was a fishing hat and some lures. And, a book. How To Fish For Dummies. He held up the book laughing; sharing a lingering look with her. The afternoon spent with Charles on the Euclid had yielded zero fish caught between them. Darcy had blamed the fact his friend could not stop going on about his honeymoon and his contentment about being a married man.
"And, there is this." She handed him a thin envelop. Inside, there were two plane tickets to Michigan. "Next week, we are going to visit my uncle's cabin in Lake Michigan. Mrs. Reynolds cleared your Friday and Monday. I think that even you will be able to catch something. Though don't get too excited, it is roughing it compared to the Euclid."
He took her hand in his, raising it to his lips he kissed her fingers gently. His voice was decidedly husky, "Your gift is perfect. " He then said, "But, don't make any plans for us the week of the fourth."
She quirked an eyebrow intrigued. "Oh, why?"
"I found out today that Darcy Electronics placed third in the DARPA competition. We'll be going to Tokyo to accept the award. In fact, I am flying the entire team and their families out. I thought it was the least I could do to reward their hard work."
"Really?" Elizabeth was thrilled for him. Thrilled at the unexpected trip. It sounded like fun. She didn't even care that his ex was going to be part of the entourage. After their steamy vacation and their subsequent return to New York, she was quite secure in his regard for her.
"DARPA?" Catherine asked. Darcy explained very briefly what the competition was.
Elizabeth let them know even more, concluding, "It is a great honor for Will and for Darcy Electronics. I am very proud of you!"
He seemed embarrassed by her praise. "My team actually did more work than I did on the project. I really didn't do too much."
"I think everyone here knows how very hard you work." She retorted, "You should show them the drone prototype, Will. They'd find it fascinating I am sure."
"Oh, please, do, Will!" Georgie said. The group filed into the laboratory , where they were as in awe of the laboratory and MEIRA as she had been weeks earlier. From the doorway, she watched with a real sense of satisfaction as Darcy demonstrated the drone to them while explaining the concepts behind the design. Richard tested the drone out before asking questions about his other projects. As Darcy answered his questions, Senator Paul gazed at her thoughtfully. She hoped the man no longer harbored any thoughts that she was involved with his nephew simply for his money. She loved Will. She wanted only the best for the man; the best for the entire family.
As they always do, the evening concluded. Senator Pool repeated his apology to both of them. Matilda invited them to some Broadway play to which Darcy smoothly answered after a look in her direction that they would have to consult their calendar. The four women made lunch plans to look over the needs for the Harvest Festival to see if Elizabeth could delegate some of the daunting responsibility to them. Richard reminded them all of the family get together for Labor Day at the Cape. Georgie was the last to leave, lingering to keep her company as she did the dishes.
"Finally." Darcy whispered after practically shoving his sister out the door. "I was starting to think they'd never leave."
His words did not match his emotion. Joy was in his eyes. The peace in his family had brought him the happiness she knew it would. All things considered, it had been a good night. Elizabeth felt strangely shy under the weight of his heated attention. He moved to her, kissing the nape of her neck. She felt a tug at her waist as he opened her apron strings. They'd been surrounded by people for the last two hours, but it somehow had only built up the anticipation in her. He unwrapped her apron, hung it on the hook by the sink.
Without a word, she felt his hand on the zipper of her dress. He unzipped it an inch, pressed his lips against the exposed skin, unzipped another inch, another kiss. He was killing her an inch at a time. Her heart hammered, her equilibrium swayed.
"Those pictures you sent me were extremely erotic."
"Did you like them?" She asked when she could get her breathing regulated.
Another kiss against her exposed skin. "Oh, yes. Very much. I've been fantasizing all day about you, Elizabeth."
"I'm glad."
"I think I was told that I was going to enjoy my evening more than my morning if I followed specific instructions." He swept her hair up in his hand, tugging her head backwards. "I was on time for dinner and I was pleasant company, was I not?"
"You were. Definitely."
He drug his teeth along the corridor of her neck. "I think it's time for us to move onto the private entertainment for the evening, Elizabeth."
*(*
Two days later, Elizabeth looked at the clock on the wall in disbelief after responding to the emails from Lambton. Things were running along smoothly with the planning of the Harvest Festival and Ball, but she felt exhausted by the simple action going through the messages. It could not be just now going on noon. It felt like it should be mid-afternoon.
Yawning again, she wanted a nap in the worst way. She decided a cookie would be just the thing to give her a burst of energy. Yoga in an hour. After that, she had a meeting with a potential client, who wanted to hire her to cater their baby shower. She had heard of Elizabeth from a person who attended Aiden's adoption party. Word of mouth had indeed started spreading. She already had three small events lined up for the following week. She was relieved that she was finally working at something she enjoyed. When she wanted. On her terms. Darcy had been correct. Catering was a much better fit for her personality than the demands of a full scale restaurant.
Withdrawing a snicker doodle, she got a whiff of the jar and immediately retched. Her stomach rolled, the contents of her breakfast oatmeal and a banana feeling suddenly like a congealed mass that had to be expelled. She'd barely made it to the bathroom off the entry of the penthouse in time. She held onto the commode for several long minutes. Her foggy mind connecting dots she had not previously considered. The exhaustion. Her moodiness. The queasiness that was hitting her more often than not most mornings.
"Elizabeth, are you home?" She was surprised to hear Darcy's voice from the entryway. The door to the bathroom was still standing ajar and as he came around the entrance way their eyes met. "Honey?" He entered the small space and knelt next to her.
"What are you doing here?" She whispered.
"I could ask you the same." He flushed the toilet. As he gave her a wet towel, concern washed over his features. "Are you not feeling well again? You looked so tired this morning I thought I'd come home and check on you."
"I just must have eaten something that didn't agree with me. That's all."
She could see that his wheels were spinning like hers had been a few moments earlier. His eyes searched hers. "Is it possible?"
She knew what he was asking. The likelihood was high. Her last cycle had been before they became lovers. With all that had happened since the night of the benefit, the vacation and then their subsequent return to New York, she had not noticed at all that she had skipped her monthly visitor. Now that she was thinking about it. She was late. Very late. Over a month late.
So many thoughts went through her head. Suddenly, she felt frantic. "I've been drinking and taking birth control pills, Will. Couldn't that hurt the baby?" Tears were streaming down her face. "I'm so stupid. I should have known. I should have realized I was late, that there was a possibility - "
"Calm down, honey." He kissed her forehead gently. "Getting upset if you are pregnant is not going to be good for the baby. Why don't you brush your teeth? And, I'll wait for you in the living room?"
After freshening up, she found him.
"First, we need to get you to a doctor to see if we are pregnant. If we are, then we'll just have to figure out what to do to give our baby the best chance of being born healthy. If we aren't, then we need to find out what exactly is wrong with you."
She sniffed looking at him. "We?"
"If you're pregnant, you certainly didn't get yourself that way by yourself." She laughed, nodding. He was always so wise. He continued, "We did it. Together. If it's something else, we'll get through it. Just like, I hope, we'll do everything for the rest of our lives."
"For the rest of our lives?"
He looked decided nervous. Serious. "I planned this so differently. I wanted to take you to Santorini. Or to the wishing well at Pemberley - " He looked at her with such an expression before reaching into his pocket. He retrieved a small box. Opening it, he told her. "I want you to marry me, Elizabeth. I want you to be my wife. I want you to wear the ring that has adorn every one of the wives of the Darcy line since Fitzwilliam learned humility from his Elizabeth."
She looked at the simple gold band dotted with a small diamond solitaire. She shut her eyes, "I might not be pregnant, Will. You don't have to do this."
"Don't have to do this?" He cocked his head. "I don't want to marry you because you might be pregnant with my child. I want to marry you because I love you." He lowered himself to the ground, looking up at her from his knees. "In sickness or in health, Elizabeth. For the rest of our lives. As I told your dad, I want to be with you because you are the best thing that ever happened to me. I want you to marry me because I cannot imagine my life without you. You bring such joy to my life. You make me feel. You make me feel when I never thought I would-"
"Yes." She cut him off. Tears threatened again. "Yes, a thousand times yes!"
* FIN*
Some special comments:
Kathy - Discovering your friendship has been the best thing about writing this story! Thanks so much for your help, your insight and your ear.
Julianabr - You comments could always be count on to make me laugh and feel good about my story ! Thanks.
Anedrew - You helped more than you know with your comments. Keeping me on the straight and narrow, making sure that I stayed true to the characters.
DizzyLizzy60, LoveInTheBattleField, Tremu, Applebaffled, Meralien, Hana, Steeleo, FatPatricia515, Haruko, Vegetable Lov3r, Irishjessy - Hee Hee! I finished and I couldn't have done it without all of your support!
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