Chapter 10
As Aunt Rebecca left, William returned. He greeted her pleasantly and then, smiling, went off in search of Elizabeth. He found her in the library looking pensive.
"Is everything okay, my dear?" he asked worriedly.
Elizabeth turned and smiled at him. "Yes, just thinking."
"How did you find your rooms?" William asked.
Elizabeth turned thoughtful again. "Your aunt and I went up to view them, and I asked her for help with the redecorating. The rooms need some lightening and I wondered about choosing one main color that would go through all the rooms to keep it cohesive. But then she asked me some questions that left me thinking.
"She asked me how I viewed marriage and I talked about it being a partnership where there was mutual respect. But then she talked about that partnership extending into other aspects of marriage, particularly the physical." Elizabeth's face was bright red, but she pressed on, not willing to look up at him as she continued this topic. "When we are married, do you anticipate us needing two bed chambers?"
William smiled softly at her and lifted her chin, so she met his eyes. "I would prefer us to share one, but if you prefer to maintain two, I will do whatever you want."
She held the eye contact. "I think I would also like to share. When she mentioned it, I remembered sleeping in your arms on the ride here. I liked waking up in your arms." Her voice has dropped until it was barely a whisper, but he heard her.
He groaned but still managed to answer, "I would also prefer to share, my love. Now, I think it is time we head to lunch."
They both stood but he could not resist drawing her to him for a quick kiss. "I was successful today and we can be married as soon as it can be arranged. My great uncle gave me days and times next week he will be available and now we just need to confirm with your aunt and uncle and mine. We will have much to discuss when we arrive in Gracechurch Street."
Elizabeth took his arm as she agreed with him. He escorted her into the drawing room where Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley sat. "Good afternoon, William. I am glad you are back," Georgiana called. "Lizzy, I am sorry I missed the visit with Aunt Rebecca, but I found I needed to rest after our travels the previous days."
"Are you feeling better now, Georgie," Elizabeth asked. "I had a lovely visit with Aunt Rebecca; we discussed redecorating in the mistress's suites." William noticed that Elizabeth blushed slightly as well and wondered what else had been discussed.
The afternoon proceeded with the three in frequent company, although William spent part of the afternoon in his study attending to business matters. Soon, Richard arrived, and it was time for the party to leave for the Gardiner's residence.
When they arrived, they were immediately ushered into the parlor where Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were waiting. "We learned a lot in our short time in Hertfordshire. Lizzy, you have letters from Jane and from Mary," Gardiner said when everyone sat down.
"Richard brought news as well, but we have a quick matter to discuss first. After discussing it with my aunt and uncle, we have decided to marry next week, instead of waiting for October, if that meets with your approval. My great uncle, the archbishop, was helpful in obtaining a special license and has agreed to conduct the ceremony for us as well," William told them.
"I know I am welcome to stay here as long I need, but I feel a bit lost knowing I no longer have a home. And I do not want to be introduced in society as 'Miss Bennet from Longbourn' when that is no longer strictly true," Elizabeth explained. "When I enter society, it would simply be easier to do so as Mrs. Darcy."
Her aunt nodded her agreement, and seeing that, her uncle did too. "I understand, my dear. Thomas has created a difficult situation for you," Mrs. Gardiner said.
"We have news on that score, Lizzy and William. Apparently, Lydia was sent home from Brighton after an attempted elopement with none other than George Wickham," Gardiner stated. He was surprised at the knowing looks from the others. "How did you know about this already?"
"Since Darcy told me in April that Wickham had joined the militia, I have had him under surveillance," Richard informed them. His commanding officer is a friend, and he has been keeping an eye on him. A few other enlisted men I know have also reported to me on occasion. Forester was aware that he was on the verge of fleeing and simply allowed him enough rope to hang himself. He planned to desert his regiment and planned to take Miss Lydia along with him to fund the escape. Forester knew of the plans and Wickham was arrested before anything could happen, but Forester sent Miss Lydia home purportedly for her own protection."
"And she has not been seen in Meryton since. She is being kept above stairs and Bingley said he has not seen her since she returned," Gardiner told them. "Phillips believes they may be concerned she is with child."
Both Elizabeth and Georgiana gasped at that news. "I am sorry, girls, to say it so bluntly, but Lydia has behaved poorly in Brighton. Lizzy, you warned Thomas not to let her go and both Phillips and I believe that may be the reason behind Thomas's reaction to your engagement. I do not know if it is to protect you by keeping you from home, or if it is due to anger at you for being right about warning him." Gardiner stated.
William squeezed Elizabeth's hand sympathetically when she sighed. "What of Jane? Is Mr. Bingley still to marry her? Does he know any of this?" she asked.
"He is aware," Mrs. Gardiner put in. "And he will marry Jane as soon as the banns are called. I am not certain that Bennet knows Bingley is aware of the situation, but he and Jane have spoken of it. Jane is unhappy about the situation at Longbourn and is looking forward to coming to London with Bingley after they are married. Fanny is, at least, happy enough about Jane's coming wedding that she has ignored everything else – including Lydia's situation and seems unaware that you are not returning."
Elizabeth groaned. "I love my family because they are my family, but if they were not, I would have nothing to do with any of them, aside from Jane. Papa is indifferent, Mama is foolish, and Lydia may have ruined herself, along with Mary and Kitty. Is there anything that can be done for either of them?"
"Your sisters may benefit from coming to Pemberley, if we can persuade your parents to allow it after some time has passed," William offered.
Elizabeth smiled at him. "It might help, but since my father will not recognize me, or respond to our letters, I am not certain we could manage it. Thank you, William."
"Well, that is enough of that," Mrs. Gardiner said, changing the topic. "When is this wedding to be? Have you decided on a date?
William handed Gardiner a piece of paper. "My great uncle suggested these dates and times. A special license allows us to marry whenever we wish, so we planned to use the library at Darcy House. We know Elizabeth has an appointment at the modiste on Monday morning but wanted to ask you about a date and time that allows you to be there."
"Thursday at ten is ideal," Gardiner replied after looking over the paper. "I have several meetings early in the week, but I know Thursday is free.
"And, with any luck, the modiste could complete one new dress by that time," Mrs. Gardiner offered. "I assume the wedding breakfast will take place at Darcy House as well?"
"It would be easiest, if you do not mind," William answered. "We are keeping things small and restricted to family, so it will be no problem for my housekeeper to arrange things for a wedding breakfast for a dozen people."
Soon after, dinner was announced, and the group moved to the dining room. Conversation around dinner flowed onto topics other than Hertfordshire and the wedding. After dinner, Georgiana and Elizabeth played a duet they had practiced that afternoon. Before long, William, Georgiana, and Richard excused themselves to return to Darcy House. Elizabeth was saddened to see William go, she had been in his company for several weeks, and this was the first time since she arrived at Pemberley they would not be under the same roof.
She escorted them all out wishing them all a good night. William lingered behind the others and kissed her hand before he left, telling her he would call in the morning. "Do not forget that I love you, dearest," he murmured before he left.
When she returned to the parlor, the Gardiners were sitting waiting for her. "How did you find Darcy House, Lizzy?" Mrs. Gardiner asked.
"It is beautiful, Aunt, just like Pemberley," Elizabeth relied. "Perhaps in some ways, a bit grander, since it is in town, but very elegant and timeless in its decorations. The housekeeper showed me what will be my rooms, and they do need some work, particularly the attached sitting room. Mostly new window coverings and some paint to brighten the rooms since they are a bit dark. Lady Matlock called this morning, and she offered some suggestions about improving them as well, but much of the work can wait until we are leaving London."
"How did you find Lady Matlock?" her aunt asked next.
"She is lovely, and very welcoming. She looks at William as her third son and is thrilled one has finally decided to marry," Elizabeth laughed. "I hinted that we needed to join forces to find a wife for Richard and she is very much in favor of that. I have not met the viscount yet, but we will at dinner tomorrow night."
She stopped, realizing they had forgotten to issue the invitation. "Oh, Richard was supposed to tell you of the invitation. Aunt Rebecca wanted us all to join them for dinner tomorrow night. I will remind William when he calls in the morning."
Mrs. Gardiner smiled. "We received a written invitation this morning. We have already accepted." She took a deep breath before looking at her husband. "Edward, can you give Lizzy and I some time alone?"
He nodded and stood to go. "Good night, Lizzy."
"Good night, uncle," she called. "Is something else the matter, aunt?"
"No, dear, but we have not had much time to talk privately recently. I wanted to see how you are doing, especially since you have decided to move the wedding date."
Elizabeth sighed. "It is as I said. I, I feel a bit lost at the moment. I no longer belong to Hertfordshire and Longbourn since I have been disowned. I feel like the name Bennet is no longer mine, which makes me want to start my life as a Darcy sooner, rather than waiting another month or six weeks. Honestly, since I am not a resident of anywhere, I do not even know where we could call the banns for a wedding. Again, since I no longer belong to my father's family, I want to belong to William's."
Mrs. Gardiner nodded. "I do understand, my dear. I think your father fears for you, which is why he has done what he has. I believe he thinks he is protecting you in some way. I do not think William would have changed his mind about marrying you no matter what happens with Lydia, but your father may have been afraid it would have impacted you and caused Mr. Darcy to leave you. I hope he acted as he did because he thought it would protect your happiness. I may be wrong in assigning these motives to him, but I want to believe that is his reasoning."
"You may be correct, aunt," Elizabeth agreed, but sighed. "I never considered how you would feel about me being married from Darcy House instead of from here. Would you prefer I marry here instead? When William and I spoke of it, it was half in jest, but then when we thought about it, it seemed like a brilliant idea. We both love books, and the library is nearly as amazing as the one at Pemberley."
Mrs. Gardiner laughed. "Actually, Lizzy, you marrying in a library seems just right. I am happy that you will be married from Darcy House. And your mother would have an attack of nerves if she knew the archbishop himself would be conducting your wedding ceremony."
"It is somewhat unbelievable, is it not? I can still scarce believe it," Elizabeth laughed. "I never could have dreamt of marrying someone like William. He is everything I have ever wanted in a husband, but I am awed by his wealth and connections. William is a truly wonderful man, and I am excited to be marrying him, but his consequence and rank are intimidating."
"You will rise to the occasion, Lizzy," her aunt reassured her. "You are one of the most confident women I have ever known, especially for your age. You will do well as Mrs. Darcy of Pemberley."
"I have little concern about being Mrs. Darcy of Pemberley while at Pemberley. I am uncertain how to be Mrs. Darcy in London," Elizabeth admitted. "Aunt Rebecca, Lady Matlock, and I talked about what marriage entails today. She asked me how I viewed it, and I told her that I hoped marriage to William would be a partnership of equals. William and I spent hours at Pemberley discussing the estate and talking though matters related to it. I hope to take on the role of visiting tenants like I did at Longbourn and providing aid as I can. It will be on a larger scale, since there are many more tenants than at Longbourn, but I am comfortable in that role.
"William and I discussed and debated different issues related to the harvest and he, so far, has been willing to listen and consider my opinions and act on them. If there is a reason they cannot be, he explains the reasoning and on one or two occasions, by talking through an issue, we were able to combine ideals to come up with an even better solution. This gives me hope for our future of Master and Mistress of the estate.
"I am not sure how this partnership extends to London, yet. We can talk through matters of business, I supposed, but I am not made for spending too much time in town. Neither is William, so maybe our time here will be limited, but at least until Georgiana marries, we will likely spend several months in town each year. I guess I am most uncertain about the unknown. As much as I look forward to marrying William, and if it were just he and I, things would be perfect, but it is the uncertainty of my reception that has me most concerned."
"You will do find, especially with the Countess of Matlock behind you. She is a force to contend with in society and will ensure you have little to worry about. Follow her lead, my dear, and you will be fine,"
"Oh, she wants to come with us to the modiste on Monday. Will you let her know the details when we dine there tomorrow?"
"She asked for that information in her note today as well," Aunt Gardiner laughed, and Elizabeth joined her.
"She is a force to be reckoned with," Elizabeth said, still amused. "It is late, aunt. I am going to go up now unless you have more to discuss."
"That is it for now, dear. Sleep well."
The next few days passed quickly. The dinners at Matlock House on Saturday and at Darcy House on Sunday were enjoyable for everyone and the families enjoyed getting to know each other better. On both Monday and Tuesday nights, William and Georgiana joined the Gardiners for dinner, although most of those two days were spend shopping and visiting the modiste. Between Aunt Gardiner and Aunt Rebecca, Elizabeth ordered far more dresses than she could have ever imagined. The two older women became fast friends and discussed the wedding ceremony and the wedding breakfast as Elizabeth was measured and fitted, much to her displeasure.
She was very pleased with her wedding dress, a pale green silk with a darker trim that pleased Elizabeth very much. On Tuesday, Georgiana brought with her a set of emeralds to wear with the dress. Elizabeth was shocked at the jewelry, but both her aunts were pleased and thought they were perfect with the dress. Unbeknownst to Elizabeth, several nightgowns were commissioned as well, and money exchanged to ensure they would be ready in time.
Wednesday, William called in the morning briefly, but then the couple would not see each other until the following day. Elizabeth went for one last fitting of her wedding dress and several others and returned home that afternoon exhausted.
Her aunt encouraged her to go to bed early that night, but then followed her up. Her room was almost empty, with all of her new dresses having already been sent to Darcy House and many of her belongings already there. Her trunks with all her belongings from Longbourn had gone directly there and been unpacked and arranged by the maid that she had used when she stayed there.
Once in her room, her aunt presented her with a box from the dress maker. "Elizabeth, tomorrow you will be married to one of the kindest, best men you have ever known. He is desperately in love with you, which I think you already know, but I wanted to speak to you about the physical expression of love in marriage. I know that you and William have exchanged a few kisses, so I know you know a little of which I speak, but the best advice I can offer to you is to simply trust your husband. There is an emotional aspect to the marriage. It will bind you two together even more as you experience it together.
"The first time, it may be painful for a moment, and you may bleed a little. William loves you and will want to make it an enjoyable experience for you. And there is much potential for pleasure in marital relations for both parties. Again, follow your husband's lead and trust him. Speak to him what pleases you."
Elizabeth was blushing as her aunt spoke, but she nodded her agreement. Aunt Rebecca has said something similar.
When her aunt left, she thought she would have a hard time finding sleep, but before she knew it, it was morning. She quickly dressed, as they were to head to Darcy House early to get ready. By 8 in the morning, she had eaten a light breakfast and was on her way.
William was getting ready at Matlock House. Richard was in the way, offering ridiculous advice about the wedding night and was generally aggravating. Finally, William's valet kicked Richard out so he could finish getting his master ready.
At Darcy House, the preparations were more easily done. While both of her aunts and Georgiana were assisting the maid, they allowed the maid to do what was needed without causing the bride too much concern.
By half past nine, most everyone had arrived for the wedding. The kitchens were putting the final touches on the wedding breakfast and servants had moved most of Mr. Darcy's things into his new room. Elizabeth's things were already there, although she was dressing in the guest room she had used before. The ladies left her alone for a few minutes to go check on the decorations in the library and the dining room.
Georgiana also went to check to ensure her trunk was ready to be taken to Matlock House where she was to stay for the next fortnight so William and Elizabeth could have a honeymoon of sorts. Since William did not intend to leave his rooms for the first week, he had thought it would be best that Georgiana had some company during that time.
Just before ten, Edward Gardiner knocked on his niece's door to escort her downstairs. When she opened the door, it took several attempts before he could speak.
"You look beautiful, Lizzy," her uncle said.
She smiled at him. "Thank you. Shall we go down?"
He escorted her downstairs and to the library doors. Two footmen opened the doors and they entered the room.
William had to remind himself to breathe. When her uncle placed her hand in his, he squeezed it and then whispered, "You take my breath away, Elizabeth. You are stunning."
"That's a far cry from 'merely tolerable', William," she teased quietly and her groaned and she turned serious. "Thank you, my love. The emeralds are beautiful."
The ceremony was blessedly short and, soon enough, the archbishop declared them man and wife and he turned to her before capturing her mouth briefly in a kiss, aware of the audience. Family members approached them to offer their congratulations. Darcy had his back slapped at least once by every male member of his family in attendance. Soon enough, the earl and countess lead the way to the dining room for the breakfast, but William put his hand out to hold Elizabeth back.
Instead of leaving the library, he pulled her into his study and immediately captured her mouth in an ardent kiss. "Finally, Mrs. Darcy, I have you alone. Do you think we will be missed at breakfast?"
She laughed lightly. "I think our family might notice if we did not appear. A couple hours more, William, and then we will be alone for nearly a se'night."
He sighed, kissed her again chastely and then escorted her into the dining room. Their lateness had been noticed, but was not commented on, although Richard winked at Darcy.
Breakfast was a joyous celebration and Elizabeth enjoyed speaking with the archbishop, as well as the other members of her new family. It felt strange to be marrying without at least Jane in attendance, but she was ecstatic to be married to William.
When everyone finished eating, they repaired to the drawing room for a time before cake was served. When Mr. Gardiner announced he needed to depart for a business meeting, others began to withdraw as well. Within half an hour, William and Elizabeth were left alone in the house.
He grinned at her. "Well, Mrs. Darcy, would you like to check on the progress in our rooms?"
She laughed at his rather obvious ploy. "Would you like the housekeeper to join us, so she can take notes on any changes that are still needed?"
William growled. "I would prefer she not attend us just now. I rather hoped to have you all to myself." He moved to stand in front of her and pull her out of her chair. He proceeded to pick her up into his arms and carried her upstairs only setting her on her feet when they reached his room.
He paused. "If you would like some time to prepare yourself, I will call your maid to attend you and escort you into your rooms." His eyes grew dark. "But if you would allow me, I would like to play ladies maid for you this afternoon."
Elizabeth smiled lovingly at her new husband. "William," she breathed, remembering what both of her aunts had said about trusting. "I would be delighted for you to assist me."
When he grinned, she knew she had made the correct choice. He began to undo her buttons, kissing her skin as it was exposed. Her dress was simple, but there were still many buttons and ties that had to be carefully handled. However, before too much time had passed, she was dressed only in her shift and he was gazing at her admiringly.
He kissed her again as he had in the study and when he finally released her, both were breathing hard.
"You, my dear, have too many clothes on," she commented.
He laughed as he reached to untie his cravat.
It was sometime later when he woke, Elizabeth wrapped tightly in his arms. He pushed up on one elbow and watched his new wife sleep. After several minutes of observation, she woke slightly, and smiled when she noticed him. "Hello, love," she said sleepily, eliciting a matching smile from him.
He kissed her then, until her stomach grumbled. He laughed. "Should I request a meal served in our sitting room, dearest?"
"I think you had better," she replied when his stomach grumbled as well. They both laughed and he got up to ring for a servant. She blushed slightly to see him thus but recovered quickly. While he spoke to whoever answered through the door, she fumbled around looking for her robe, but then remembered that it was likely in her dressing room, several rooms away. As she considered what to do, she failed to realize her husband was watching her.
"Is there something you need, my dear?" he asked, concern.
She blushed. "It is nothing, really, but I just realized my robe is several rooms away and I cannot rise from this bed as I am."
He grinned at her. "You can," he said slowly.
"But I have nothing on," she said, blushing profusely.
He waggled his eyebrows at her. "And I am your husband now, love. Besides, I am in the same state."
She raised her eyes to his and blushed again before looking back down and raising her hands to cover her face. "Yes."
William approached her in the bed. "Elizabeth," he began, tenderly. "Would you like me to fetch you a robe?"
"Yes, please," she said, her face still hidden in her hands.
He raised her face and brought his face down to hers. "You are beautiful, my love. But I will refrain from teasing you until you are more comfortable. But I hope you will become comfortable in my presence and not be afraid of sharing yourself with me."
"I am being silly, I know," she said.
"You are not silly. Society has taught you to feel as though you must hide your body from men, but now that you are married, those rules have changes. It is not easy to make that adjustment overnight," he replied, speaking tenderly and understandingly. He kissed her, softly at first, but with rising passion.
When they eventually made it into the sitting room to eat the food that had been delivered there, both were wearing a nightshirt that William had fetched from his dressing room. It enveloped Elizabeth, who had to fold the sleeves many times to leave her hands free to eat and was tied up on the side so she could walk without tripping. William had tried to convince her that was unnecessary as he would happily carry her wherever she wanted to go, but she had insisted on a certain level of mobility for herself.
The repast was good, a variety of sliced meat and cheese, along with fruit and fresh bread. A bottle of wine was included as well. Enjoying their first private meal together, they sat in the sitting room between their chambers and discussed many things, including some observations about what would make the room more comfortable for them both.
Eventually, though, they had eaten enough and returned to William's bed chamber and, much later, fell asleep again in each other's arms.
The next several days passed in similar fashion. Only their personal servants saw them, and the only way most of the staff knew they were in residence were through the requests for food and water for bathing. Finally, on Tuesday, they both rose from their shared bed at a reasonable hour, although later than normal for both, and dressed to head downstairs for breakfast. Elizabeth had an appointment with the modiste that morning and William was delighted to escort her there, as well as accompany her on a shopping expedition to Hatchards. Lady Matlock and Mrs. Gardiner were due to join them at the modiste, which would allow William to make a quick visit to his solicitor and to place the announcement for his wedding into the papers. Lord Matlock had offered to do so immediately, but William had wanted to guarantee his peace for a few more days.
After returning to the modiste, William escorted the three ladies to the shops. They were greeted by several friends and acquaintances of Lady Matlock, and she introduced Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner to several, although in quite a few cases, she did not offer any introductions.
Those who Lady Matlock did introduce were all surprised to learn about her nephew's marriage but were pleased to see him looking happy and content as he squired his wife and her aunt around London.
"William," Lady Matlock said following one of the introductions. "Your lovely wife would enjoy an outing to the theater. You should see about arranging an evening out. I believe you still keep a box."
"That is a wonderful, idea, Aunt. Elizabeth, what do you think?" William asked.
Elizabeth beamed at him. "I would love a trip to the theater, William. You have a box?"
"We have a box, my dear. And I will send a servant around when we arrive home to obtain a schedule so we can make our plans," William informed her.
"Elizabeth, I would like to call on Thursday morning to discuss my plans for your introduction to society. I have received several invitations and I am sure William has as well. We need to decide which events you will attend." She held up her hand when William opened his mouth to protest. "I know you prefer to keep your wife to yourself, and I understand that, but I will not subject you to too many events. You need to be seen out and about, at least a little, but I will not expect you to attend more than two or three events a week."
"Aunt, we do plan to return to Pemberley before too long," William offered, when he was finally given a chance to speak.
"Yes, I realize that, but you should plan on spending at least a month in town. You can return to Pemberley in October. And do not try to tell me you need to return for the harvest. You had not planned to be there anyway, and you cannot use that as an excuse now," Lady Matlock cut off any protests and then smiled when he scowled.
He grumbled slightly but relented. "And, since the wedding announcement will appear in tomorrow's paper, as planned, we can expect to see Lady Catherine soon to express her displeasure. Although I am tempted to bar the door for the next several more days."
"So long as it is open for my call two days from now," Lady Matlock agreed, smiling.