Elizabeth received a letter from Jane the next day which prompted her to seek out her husband in his study, hoping he would not be upset by the liberty she had taken. "Fitzwilliam, I must confess I wrote to Jane and asked her to visit us here at Pemberley. I hope you do not mind, but I missed my sister terribly and could not resist the urge to invite her, if only for a short while."

Mr. Darcy looked up from his desk with an unreadable expression, and Elizabeth felt her stomach clench nervously. But then his face softened into a smile. "There is no need for concern. I told you that you must consider Pemberley your home. I am happy your sister can join us."

Relief washed over Elizabeth, along with gratitude for her understanding husband. "Thank you. It will be such a joy to have Jane here and to show her the grandeur of Pemberley. I only hope she can be spared from Longbourn for a fortnight or so."

"If she cannot stay as long as you would like, we shall have her again when she is able," Mr. Darcy replied. "For now, we must simply anticipate this reunion with your sister and hope the roads are fair for quick travel."

Elizabeth glowed with happiness at his words.

"If Miss Bennet can make her way to our townhouse in London," Mr. Darcy said, "then she need not trouble with the public coaches. Our carriage can convey her to Pemberley, and likely in greater comfort and speed than the stages."

Elizabeth's eyes lit up at this generous offer. "Thank you, Fitzwilliam! I know Jane would be most grateful for such an opportunity. The roads about Longbourn have been difficult of late, and a private carriage would be a great boon, especially if the weather grows inclement."

Mr. Darcy nodded. "Then please write to your sister and extend the invitation for the use of our carriage. It is the least I can do to assist and make the way smooth for your reunion."

Elizabeth hastened to pen a reply to her sister, conveying Mr. Darcy's generous offer of the carriage and anticipating Jane's delight at the prospect of an easier journey and more time to spend at Pemberley. With tender words, Elizabeth expressed her eagerness for their reunion and the opportunity to welcome Jane into her new home.

Her heart swelled with anticipation for the coming weeks, yet also fluttered nervously. As much as she longed for her sister's company and to welcome Georgiana as a sister, she could not help but fear their scrutiny. Although she and Mr. Darcy were now lawfully wed, they were still near strangers. As Georgiana and the Matlocks arrival loomed, these thoughts weighed heavily upon Elizabeth. She was determined to get to know her husband in the short time they had before their relatives arrived.

The days rolled by, and Elizabeth noticed a distinct change in her husband's manner. There was a warmth in his gaze and a softness in his voice as he addressed her that had not been present in the early days of their marriage. With it came a sense of security and comfort, and Elizabeth began to feel increasingly at ease in her new home.

Each day, they spent time together walking around the grounds of Pemberley, talking of all manner of things. The more time they spent together, the more Elizabeth felt she was beginning to understand the man she married.

At breakfast and supper, Mr. Darcy was full of stories, some humorous and some serious, but all delivered with an easy wit that made Elizabeth laugh frequently. She shared her own stories too, and this way they got to know each other better—not just their histories but also their likes and dislikes, their hopes for the future, what brought them joy or sorrow—all those little nuances of life that were only revealed through lengthy conversation.

Elizabeth ventured to share her anxieties about making a good impression on his family, and was relieved when he took her hands in his and said earnestly, "You must never think I require you to be anything but your dear self, Elizabeth. But I understand your wish to welcome my relations appropriately attired, and I apologize for not seeing to a proper trousseau for you. Let us journey to Lambton on the morrow and outfit you as Pemberley's new mistress should be."

"Truly, Mr. Darcy, I am most grateful for your offer to purchase a trousseau for me," Elizabeth said, her eyes shining with emotion. "But I must insist that it be modest. I would like my merits, not my adornments, to be the greater compliment to your family."

Mr. Darcy looked at her thoughtfully, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips. "As you wish, my dear," he said, taking her hand in his. "But I cannot help but feel that you should have the finest clothes and accessories that money can buy."

"That may be true, Mr. Darcy," replied Elizabeth with a twinkle in her eye. "But I would prefer to show your family who I am, not just what I wear. I would like them to see the real Elizabeth Bennet, not just a woman dressed in the latest fashions."

Mr. Darcy hesitated for a moment, then nodded in agreement. "Very well, Elizabeth," he said with a sigh. "You shall choose as you see fit. I trust your judgment and I know that you will do what is best for both of us."

The modiste in Lambton was delighted to serve Mrs. Darcy and showed several delightful fabrics in complementary hues sure to enhance Elizabeth's air of lively intelligence and grace. A velvet the deep green of pine needles was irresistible for a carriage dress, the bodice cleverly trimmed in amber silk to accent her eyes. For evenings at Pemberley, ivory silk would be fashioned into a Grecian style gown with gold ribbon woven through the percale.

Though sensible of the expense, Elizabeth could not repress a smile at her choices and anticipation of her husband's pleasure at her new finery. It would be the work of moments for Jane and Georgiana to perceive in Elizabeth a true sister of the heart, one needing no worldly ornament to commend her to their esteem. As for the noble Matlocks...with Mr. Darcy's endorsement to steady her, Elizabeth felt ready to face their discerning eyes with far more courage than when last in such lofty company. If they judged her wanting, at least she had not that sting of censure from her husband.

Pulled along in the modiste's wake to view laces and ribbons, Elizabeth felt a lightness of heart to replace former cares. Ready and willing was she to take her rightful place as mistress of Pemberley, wanting nothing so much as to serve its master well.

The next day, Elizabeth peered down Pemberley's drive with Mr. Darcy, anxiously awaiting Georgiana and the noble Matlocks' arrival. Yet at sight of the approaching coach, she frowned. "That cannot be your sister's party—there is but one coach!"

But Darcy's face lit with delight. "It seems we have unexpected guests!" He hastened to greet the man alighting, who Elizabeth recognized as Colonel Fitzwilliam, Darcy's genial cousin.

"Richard! However did you escape the regiment so soon?"

"An embarrassment of furloughs—I dared exploit the generosity of our new colonel." The Colonel returned Darcy's hug, then cast an eye back at the coach's remaining occupant. "And here is little Georgie, who would not be left behind!"

A slender figure clung to the Colonel's arm, and at introduction Elizabeth met the gaze of Miss Darcy—so like her brother's yet softened by shyness. But Georgiana's answering smile was sweet. "It is a joy to meet you at last, Sister."

With alacrity Colonel Fitzwilliam offered Elizabeth his arm, leaving Mr. Darcy to assist his sister. Elizabeth welcomed her new sister and cousin inside Pemberley, where refreshments were swiftly offered to revive them after their journey.

At first, Georgiana hovered on the fringes of Elizabeth's discourse, too shy yet to join in. While she eyed Elizabeth with wistful interest, uncertainty held her back from claiming sisterhood's rights and indeed familial welcome apparent in Elizabeth's kind gaze.

But Elizabeth would not have Mr. Darcy's sister hide herself away. With teasing admiration of Georgiana's graceful manner-aversion to putting herself forward so obvious-Elizabeth softly coaxed the girl out. "Wouldn't you show us your talents at the pianoforte? I've heard such wonderful things about your skill," she suggested.

Georgiana blushed in response, her eyes sparkling with hidden pride and so appealed to, she could not refuse.

Seated at the instrument with Elizabeth, hands flew to prove the praise deserved. Though color mounted in her cheeks at such close scrutiny, Georgiana forgot herself in the music, features softening from shyness to joyful abandon as a piece concluded.

As Elizabeth expressed her warm gratitude for the treat, she noticed a change in Georgiana's demeanor. The young girl seemed to relax, and Elizabeth could see that she was eager to open up and share her interests.

"Miss Darcy, I couldn't help but notice your love for art and poetry," Elizabeth said with a warm smile. "I too have a great passion for these subjects. May I ask what your favorite works are?"

At Elizabeth's question, Georgiana's face lit up with excitement. "Oh, I have been studying the works of the Pre-Raphaelite brotherhood, and I am particularly enamored with Dante Gabriel Rossetti's use of symbolism and allegory in his paintings."

Elizabeth was thrilled to have found a fellow enthusiast, and she eagerly shared her own thoughts on the Pre-Raphaelites. "I too have a great appreciation for Rossetti's work, and I must say I find his depictions of women in his paintings to be particularly captivating. There is something so ethereal and otherworldly about them."

As they continued to discuss their mutual interests, Elizabeth could see that Georgiana's nerves were completely soothed by her animation and quick insight into her passions and pleasures. The shyness that had previously held Georgiana back was nowhere to be seen, and she was now fully engaged in the conversation, eager to share her thoughts and opinions.

"It is such a delight to find someone who shares my love for art and poetry," Georgiana said with a warm smile. "Thank you, for your understanding and enthusiasm. I cannot wait to continue this conversation in the future."

And as they laughed and chatted, Elizabeth felt a sense of joy and contentment at having found a new friend in her sister-in-law. If Lady Catherine hoped to turn Georgiana against Elizabeth, she was too late. Georgiana had already found a true kindred spirit in her new sister. Instead of confirming her aunt's disparaging view of Elizabeth, Georgiana saw her worth and warmth.

As Elizabeth and Georgiana chatted, Colonel Fitzwilliam added to the merriment with his tales from the regiment. His anecdotes were absurd and improper, and Elizabeth watched with delight as Georgiana's face lit up with laughter at each one.

"And do you recall, Georgiana, the time when Lieutenant Smith tried to impress a lady by demonstrating his horsemanship, only to find himself thrown from his mount and landing in a mud puddle?" the Colonel asked with a twinkle in his eye.

Georgiana let out a peal of laughter at the memory. "Oh, I do remember that!"

"But Lieutenant Smith learned his lesson and never tried to impress a lady with his horsemanship again."

As the laughter and merriment continued, Elizabeth could see the tension melting away from Georgiana's shoulders. She was relaxing in Elizabeth's company, and Elizabeth was filled with a sense of joy and contentment at the thought.

"Colonel Fitzwilliam, your stories are a delight," Elizabeth said with a smile.

"It is my pleasure, Mrs. Darcy," replied the Colonel with a bow. "I am glad to have been of service in bringing a smile to your and Georgiana's faces."

Before they realized it, a delightful evening had slipped by in their merry reunion. But as the night wore on, Colonel Fitzwilliam's weariness began to show, and Mr. Darcy could not help but take notice.

"Colonel Fitzwilliam, it seems that you are in need of some rest," Mr. Darcy said with a concerned look. "I cannot allow you to rejoin your regiment without a proper rest and at least a week's furlough to recover."

"Thank you, Darcy, but I must protest," replied the Colonel with a smile. "I am not so tired that I cannot enjoy a few more hours of good company."

"Nonsense, Colonel," said Elizabeth with a smile. "Mr. Darcy is right. You have been working hard for the regiment and it is time for you to take a well-deserved break. Pemberley is the perfect place for rest and relaxation, and I am sure you will enjoy your time here."

"Indeed, I shall," replied the Colonel with a nod. "Thank you for your hospitality. I am grateful for the opportunity to rest and recharge before I return to my duties."

Georgiana glowed with happiness at the thought of having her gallant cousin's company for more than just a fleeting visit, and Elizabeth eagerly anticipated even more amusement and insight into her new family through the irrepressible Colonel Fitzwilliam.

Meals at Pemberley passed in lively conversation and laughter as the intimate circle of family shared reminiscences and entertaining tales. The gardens, woods, and library became places of happy exploration and discovery as Elizabeth and Georgiana rambled arm in arm. The girl's talents and accomplishments filled Elizabeth with admiration for the care that had shaped Georgiana under her brother's guidance.

During their walks Elizabeth gained insight into Georgiana's studies and the gentle but rigorous tutelage that had cultivated her mind no less than her graces. That she should have such an able champion in her brother filled Elizabeth with admiration anew for the man who was her husband.

"I fear my methods were sterner when Georgiana was younger and more recalcitrant to application," Mr. Darcy admitted when Elizabeth remarked on his sister's evident education. "But we are much of an age and sympathy, and cooperation was soon achieved. Given the guidance I lacked in my own motherless youth, I was happy to provide instruction and goals for amusement or industry. Georgiana has always been an able pupil, and her delight in new attainments spurred us on together."

"Yet her resemblance to you shows she could match stubbornness for stubbornness if she chose," teased Elizabeth fondly. "I suspect more than gentle guidance was required in her earliest lessons!"

"You see through me entirely too well," Darcy laughed. "She inherited the Darcy spirit in abundance and learning to channel rather than suppress such vitality was as much the tutor's task as teaching Greek or Geometry. But that same spirit has served her in good stead for music, drawing, and riding—there are no bounds to Georgiana's energy once her interest is caught."

As they continued to joke and tease each other, Elizabeth couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness and contentment wash over her. And as she caught him stealing long looks at her and reaching out to touch her hand, she couldn't help but feel her happiness increase, knowing that their relationship was only growing stronger with each passing day.

"You know, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth said with a teasing smile, "I can't help but think back to our first meeting at the Meryton assembly. I remember you finding me not handsome enough to tempt you."

Mr. Darcy winced at the reminder, regret clear on his face. "Elizabeth, I cannot apologize enough for my thoughtless words. I was a fool and I did not see the true beauty that was right in front of me."

"And yet, here we are, married," Elizabeth said, her eyes shining with happiness.

"Yes, here we are," Mr. Darcy said, placing his hand on her cheek. "And I thank my lucky stars every day that I was given the chance to know you."

Elizabeth felt her heart flutter at his words and she leaned into his touch, feeling a sense of contentment wash over her. And as she caught him stealing long looks at her and reaching out to touch her hand, she couldn't help but feel her happiness increase.

Mr. Darcy pulled her close and lowered his head. As their lips met, Elizabeth felt a rush of emotion and she wrapped her arms around her husband, deepening the kiss. Their kiss was tender and filled with love, each of them reveling in the sensation of the other's lips on their own.

Just as their kiss was reaching its climax, they were startled apart by the sound of a clearing throat. Blushing and giggling, they turned to find Col. Fitzwilliam standing in the doorway, a mischievous twinkle in his eye.

"I hate to interrupt such a tender moment," he said with a grin, "But I couldn't help but be curious about what was taking you two so long to come down to play whist. And now I see what the hold up was!"

Elizabeth smiled at her husband's irritation with his cousin's antics. While Mr. Darcy frowned at Col. Fitzwilliam's foolish interruption, she took the teasing in good stride. Their cousin's playful spirit was well known, and she would not let it trouble her happiness.

Darcy grumbled, "Must you always ply your mischief so inopportunely, Fitzwilliam? Newly married as we are, you might at least do us the courtesy of privacy in our own home."

But his reproach held no true anger, and he could not maintain the pretense of annoyance for long. With a rueful chuckle, he shook his head and took Elizabeth's hand as they followed Col. Fitzwilliam to the gaming room where Georgiana waited to play cards.

Though their private moment had been interrupted, Elizabeth and Darcy would find another time and place to reconnect intimately. For now, they would join Colonel Fitzwilliam and the others for an enjoyable evening of games and merriment.

Amidst the delight and merriment that filled their days at Pemberley, a discordant note sounded. Mr. Darcy threw yet another letter into the fireplace, its contents a mystery to her but her husband's expression darkening with each word.

"Your aunt?" she asked, hoping that was all it was.

Mr. Darcy nodded tightly and sat back in his chair, rubbing his temples as he did so. "Lady Catherine de Bourgh."

Elizabeth sighed and moved to sit next to him, taking his hands in hers and squeezing them lightly. She knew Lady Catherine had been one of the few voices raised against their union, but this seemed an unusual level of animosity to express over what was now an unchangeable reality.

"Let us not speak of it," said Mr. Darcy, seeming to take comfort from her presence. "I assure you that my loyalty lies with you—always has and always will."

Elizabeth smiled kindly up at him and leaned forward to press a kiss on his forehead before returning to her seat. She appreciated his reassurances and drew strength from them too, although she knew herself well enough to recognize that such persistent attacks still caused some discomfort within her heart.

Nevertheless, Elizabeth could not help but admire the steadfastness with which Mr. Darcy had resisted his aunt's pressure; while others may have crumbled under the weight of Lady Catherine's disapprobation, he had stood firm throughout—a testament to their bond as well as a source of admiration for Elizabeth herself in having won such love and devotion from a man like Mr. Darcy.

With a knowing look, Elizabeth laid her hand over his in a show of silent solidarity, their deepening accord evident to all, including the observant Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam, who couldn't help but smile at this latest display of affection between the newlyweds.

The pain has gotten a lot better and I can walk more normal but still very slow and I have to concentrate to get a full range of motion in the left leg. If I walk a longer distance than my apartment, I take the cane just in case. My infrared heating pad has been a blessing! Insomnia is not. I've been having a horrible time sleeping the last week. Good news is that most of the snow and ice is melted off the driveway and streets now!