A/N: So I pumped this one out much sooner than expected which I am very happy about because I hate having long update periods. Otherwise I am ASTOUNDED! and so so grateful for all the comments, follows, hits etc. I apologise for not directly responding to the comments btw but know that I see and appreciate all of them. Literally I am floored considering this was

Random note as well but Netflix recently presented me with one of the best gifts I never knew I needed. Some might have come across this Spanish show called "The Cook of Castamar" but it has all the ingredients that I love. Widowed, rich master and poor servant coming together for a melodramatic star crossed lovers tale! Literally my fic with some elements changed around. All I can do is recommend it for those that are into that trope and also I was INSPIRED for the next few chapters because the show really captures the idea of hosting an event at a grand estate.

Anyway, enjoy the chapter.

Chapter Summary: Elizabeth and Darcy deal with the aftermath of their argument.

Track: "Truth" - Ramin Djawadi

Of one thing Lady Sybil was certain. There was more to Darcy's feelings towards Elizabeth than he was willing to admit.

The scene she had witnessed was dramatic to say the least. Though having arrived at the tail end of Darcy and Elizabeth's exchange, Lady Sybil had witnessed enough - the heated words, the seemingly magnetic draw and Lady Sybil wondered, might they have kissed if she had not been prudent enough to intercept before either of them acted on what they were bound to regret? From her vantage point it had certainly looked like the pair were caught in the centre of a storm that ensured they would crash into each other and yet pull them apart with full force.

She could not speak for Elizabeth, but Lady Sybil knew that her nephew's views on duty and propriety would likely lead to him deeply regretting any moment of passion he might have shared with Elizabeth.

Lady Sybil was torn between revelling in the satisfaction of having her theory proven beyond what she had even believed (for she honestly had only thought Darcy needed to at least be cordial with Elizabeth for their working relationship to survive) and also the worry that their latest battle in their never-ending war would surely damage the tenuous relationship they had beyond repair. For one thing, in previous encounters Elizabeth had never unleashed the true extent of her feelings about how Darcy acted or treated her. Now that the truth was laid out on the table, Lady Sybil knew it could not simply be swept away.

Lady Sybil mused over these thoughts as she observed the uncharacteristically rattled figure of her nephew who was pacing around the greenhouse room. A few moments had passed since Elizabeth had bolted from the room and Darcy seemed to be finding it difficult to collect himself. He had swept the few pots on one of the tables, spilling the seedlings and soil on the greenhouse floor. Mr Reeves and the other gardeners would surely not be pleased to have their work destroyed.

In her musings, Lady Sybil had taken a moment too long to address Darcy, who now stood staring outside the greenhouse in the direction Elizabeth had fled, and asked in a tone laced with annoyance, "Is there a reason for your visit Aunt?"

Raising a brow, Lady Sybil did not reprimand Darcy as she would have if she did not know that his attitude was a by-product of his anger. She remained silent for a moment more as she moved forward to pick up the letter that was now part of the mess of pots, soil and flowers on the floor. Noting the word 'resign', Lady now understood what had triggered the argument.

"Fitzwilliam there is no reason for you to take out your anger on your poor Aunt. I only happened upon the scene," said Lady Sybil, chuckling at how her lack of a reaction (as Darcy had probably been seeking) seemed to deflate Darcy's annoyance. His argument with Elizabeth had only irritated him further and now Darcy was spoiling for a fight. Lady Sybil knew better than to take the bait.

Lady Sybil added "I had merely come to see how some of your plants were coming along," at this she paused for dramatic effect looking at the floor strewn with soil and plants, "Unfortunately it seems I will have to wait a couple of weeks more." Lady Sybil smiled at the light huff she elicited from Darcy which was a sign that he could see the humour and ridiculousness in having taken out his anger at the pots and plants which now scattered the greenhouse floor.

Still he did not speak further and Lady Sybil continued with less humor, "I do not need to ask if all is well because I know it is not. However, while I understand you might need a moment to deal with what has happened, I do not think I need to remind you that you still have a duty to attend to your guests."

Darcy pinched the bridge of his nose and shook his head, muttering "Not now."

Lady Sybil recognised that weariness like an old friend. One of the things she resented about her family's sense of duty was the way it would dwarf all other emotional needs if doing so would compromise one's duty. She had witnessed it with her own parents. She had witnessed it with her husband who, contrary to popular belief that he was a devoted man, had subjected her to one too many arguments following news that he had been seen with one of his mistresses. It had almost always happened before a ball or a dinner party where, after exchanging many harsh words aimed at tearing down the other, the two had to put on their best smiles and see to it that their guests were entertained.

In many ways being a Darcy had allowed her to bear this weight and she knew her nephew had so far been able to do the same. However, it did not give her satisfaction to see the cycle repeated.

"I will give you an hour. I am sure delaying the departure time will not impact our guests greatly," said Lady Sybil, smiling sympathetically at Darcy who conveyed his gratitude through his eyes which had now softened from their earlier conflict.

Before she left Darcy said, "About Elizabeth - I mean Miss Bennet -".

Lady Sybil shook her head, stopping any further words from Darcy. "We shall address what happened with Miss Bennet after the guests leave." She maintained eye contact with Darcy who simply sighed and nodded. "An hour," said Lady Sybil, raising her finger for emphasis.

Now left alone with his own thoughts Darcy focused his energy on clearing up the mess he had created when he angrily spilled the pots and plants onto the floor. He tried to quiet his mind, taking in deep breaths and releasing them as Dr Moore had advised as a method to calm his nerves. Ever since Anne's passing he had found himself losing control more than usual and the breathing technique had helped somewhat. However, try as he might, his thoughts kept coming back to just a few moments before when he had been caught up in the argument with Elizabeth.

How could I let my emotions get the best of me?, wondered Darcy. The shame of it all was now setting in because no matter how justified he may have felt in what he said to Elizabeth, Darcy felt his actions cast a terrible light on his role as the master of the house. In the past he had certainly expressed his annoyance if a servant did not act accordingly but he had never given in to his anger. He had also not been tempted to kiss any servant before.

Darcy frustratedly rubbed his face wanting to rid himself of the shame and regret. There was no denying that had his aunt arrived a moment later, she would have found Darcy and Elizabeth undoubtedly in a compromising position. For he had been tempted. He was not sure when the shift had occurred but somewhere between her insulting his usefulness as a father and him reminding her to remember her place, he had been drawn in, caught by an inexplicable force that saw him nearly encasing Elizabeth. Even now he could still smell the remnants of her scent - flowery and fresh and slightly masked by a hint of the earth that had spilled on her dress when he had startled her.

Darcy wondered if she would have been receptive to his kiss. He could recognise desire, he had been with enough women to recognise it. The way the pupil dilates as it recognises attraction, the shallow breathing and slight tremble of the lips in anticipation of meeting the warmth of another's. And unless his eyes had been playing tricks on him, Elizabeth had also looked at his lips with want. She would not have acted on it as he probably, regrettably would have. Or might she have welcomed the kiss? As his thoughts wondered further to how her lips might have felt, he physically jerked at his train of thought. Get yourself together man!, Darcy scolded himself.

He channelled this new wave of frustration and anger at the broken pot he currently held in his hand which he hurled across the room where it shattered into more irreparable pieces.

Darcy knew that any action he might have taken would have compromised Elizabeth. He was not the type of master to have trysts with his servants and sweep it all under the carpet. He was the type of man who would do the honourable thing and in his world honour was realised by marriage. Darcy did not dwell on how the idea of marrying Elizabeth did not repulse him.

Darcy's solitude was interrupted by the gardener, Mr Reeves. Not wanting to have the state of the greenhouse questioned, Darcy simply apologised for the mess and promised to clean it up when he returned. Mr Reeves instead assured him it would not be necessary. The gardener looked curious but Darcy was thankful he had been reserved otherwise Darcy might have unleashed his frustration on the poor man.

Darcy made his way out of the greenhouse with no destination in mind and consumed with thoughts of Elizabeth, his children and his role as their father.

When he had read the resignation letter, part of him had been relieved that she had saved him from delivering the news of her termination, which he had been planning to do after the guests' departure. However, as fate would have it she had overheard his conversation with Bingley and his cousin. He had expected to feel satisfaction at the termination of her employment but now that it was a reality there was no satisfaction to be had. Instead Darcy was a mess of emotions. The words exchanged during their argument did not help.

Am I truly such a terrible father that my children rejoice at my absence? Or is it just Elizabeth who has poisoned them against me with her reckless manner? Darcy wondered. He recalled the moment before he left for London when his children, particularly Archie, had looked comfortable with Elizabeth. He had wanted to take them with him to London at that moment as he had feared the alienation from his children. It seemed his worst fears had been realised long before he had departed for London. And yet Darcy could not fault his children for had he not acted the same way with his governess, Miss Grey after his mother had passed? His father had been distant, preferring to focus his energy on the estate and the few interactions they had had where duty was not the overarching reason for interacting, his father would always find a way to pull back. Miss Grey had assumed the role of the parent Darcy had lost when his mother passed and growing up Darcy had vowed to never be like his father, but Darcy wondered when he had become the same version of his father he had despised?

Darcy reflected further on his argument with Elizabeth trying and failing to give himself better standing. Loath to admit it as he was, he realised there was once again some truth to Elizabeth's words when it came to his sister, Georgiana. Since last summer, Darcy could see how he might have shielded Georgiana even more, leading Georgiana to have that view. It was one of the reasons why inviting Bingley and Mr Forsythe had been difficult as Bingley, though his long time friend, and Forsythe, though an honest young man, were still men. Men who could inflict the same harm and pain on his sister. Men who could charm and work their way to the centre of the family only for their true intentions to be revealed in the same way.

Darcy though refused to dwell on the figure in question who had wreaked havoc on the family and instead centred his thoughts on the more immediate problem of his governess. Or was she now a former governess? Once again the thought did not bring him the satisfaction he had sought.

Darcy knew that unlike the last governess who had struck Archie and he had been justified in dismissing her, part of the reason he wanted Elizabeth to leave was outside her control. And the honour bound part of him could not reconcile this as he knew it was unfair to punish her for his attraction to her when she could not control this. His attraction had also surprised him and, try as he might to use his grievances at her work as a distraction, he could not extinguish the fire.

Feeling the beginnings of a headache Darcy lay back on the bench, which he was not certain as to how he had made a path to it. Facing the cloudy sky, he pondered some more.

He must have fallen asleep as he was startled by a voice calling out for him.

"Sir, I am sorry to interrupt," said Thomas, one of the footmen as he came into view. He was out of breath and beads of sweat were forming under his wig.

"Now is not the time Thomas," said Darcy irritably. He knew that the hour his aunt had allowed him to have to collect his thoughts must now be over, but he had hoped to be left alone entirely.

Thomas hesitated, seeming to weigh his options but chose to follow Lady Sybil's command. "I apologise Sir but Lady Strafford asks that you prepare to see the guests who are now seated for breakfast. She said as the host-".

"Yes I know, appearances," Darcy said dismissively, despising his family's sense of duty which would not allow him or his aunt to overlook Darcy's host duties.

After a quick change of clothes, Darcy proceeded to the breakfast room. Before crossing the threshold into the already lively room abuzz with conversation, Darcy steeled himself, taking deep breaths to calm himself. He did not want to alert any of the guests to the events earlier on, especially Caroline who was wont to gossip. When Darcy had made his greetings, in a more stilted manner than usual and taken his seat, Lady Sybil made a concerted effort to keep attention away from Darcy which he appreciated as it allowed him to have the solitude he still wanted even among his friends and family.

But try as he may, breakfast was an unpleasant affair as his earlier thoughts could not give him peace. As expected, Lady Sybil could not provide enough of a distraction for Caroline, who made multiple enquiries about his well being, Darcy had excused his taciturn nature to one too many drinks and not enough rest. This had thankfully shifted the conversation to the previous night's dinner party which turned the eyes away from Darcy except his sister's. Georgiana looked with concern to Darcy who shook his head to reassure her all was well. Georgiana was momentarily distracted by Mr Forsythe who asked her a question but when she looked back at Darcy who was now subdued and staring blankly at his tea, Georgiana was filled with worry.

For someone who had looked forward to having guests in Pemberley to create a sense of normalcy, Darcy could not be more glad at their departure. His goodbyes were less than enthusiastic, letting the guests do more of the talking while he stood detached from his environment. Caroline tried once more to ingratiate herself by remarking on how Darcy should consider her offer to teach his children some proper music. As this served to remind Darcy of the person he was trying to distract his mind about, Darcy paid her no mind, merely nodded his head as if in agreement and helped her into the carriage. By the time Caroline turned to thank him and no doubt engage him further in conversation, Darcy had turned and walked over to the second carriage where Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliama and Mr Forsythe were gathered. Mr Hurst was riding in the same carriage as his wife.

"Whatever it is my friend, fix it!" said Bingley. The heat behind the statement was mitigated by the small smile Bingley wore.

Darcy was always amazed at how Bingley, who had a tendency to seem unaffected by his surroundings, could be so observant. Darcy knew that the likelihood of Bingley knowing what had happened between him and Elizabeth was low but Bingley had still managed to notice how Darcy had not been in the best of moods.

Darcy could not help feigning ignorance, "Whatever do you mean Charles?"

"He is right cousin, I wager that you are the culprit, and you must make amends," said Colonel Fitzwilliam, whose broad smile showed how he took satisfaction in putting Darcy on the spot.

For his part, Darcy was grateful that his hair covered his ears enough to not show how pink they probably were. He realised it would take more than ignorance to deter his cousin and friend, so he chose to change the topic.

"Have a safe journey gentlemen. I will surely be seeing both of you before the Season commences," said Darcy, extending his hand to Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam and then to Mr Forsythe who had looked confused by the exchange as he had not been privy to the conversation between the gentlemen the previous night.

"Remember what I said," said Bingley now proceeding into the carriage. "She is an asset, Darcy."

Darcy only sighed, not knowing whether to break it to Bingley that Elizabeth had beat him to the punch and resigned. He did not want to be responsible for extinguishing Bingley's hopeful look.

"If anything, at least hold out until I have a brood of my own and then I can relieve you," said Colonel Fitzwilling jokingly.

Mr Forsythe for his part tried not to look too curious as to what or who all the coded language referred to.

Darcy did not wait around for the carriages to make their way out of the gate before he had retreated inside the house, unseen by his sister and aunt.

"She will wake up won't she?" said a voice that Elizabeth could not quite place. She felt like she was submerged under water and could only hear strands of the sounds around her.

"Certainly Archie. Miss Bennet just needs to rest a while more," came another voice and still trying to find her bearings, Elizabeth realised that she was not under water but rather lay on a soft surface.

"She looks very peaceful," added another voice, quite distinct from the first two. Elizabeth could now tell it was Rosie but she had not yet reconciled who or what Rosie was talking about.

"Are you sure, she looks like she is twitching a bit." This was met with a giggle and snort and Elizabeth now knew that both Archie and Rosie were present and considering that the only person prone to snorting when laughing was Rosie, Elizabeth attributed the comment to have been made by Archie.

"Archie, do not scrutinise her. She is not a doll," said a voice that sounded like Lady Sybil. The admonishment was met with more giggles.

Elizabeth could now place herself within this odd scene that was happening around her. She was laying on her bed with her legs still hanging off the side as if she had been sitting, and had simply given up this task and slumped back without regard as to the placement of her body.

Her eyelids seemed to be weighed down as they resisted opening to the rays of sunlight basking her room.

How did I get here? She thought. And then she remembered.

Mr Darcy.

The letter.

The fight.

The tears.

Remembering that she was not alone Elizabeth pried one eye open and was met with a pair of blue eyes looking at her curiously.

"She is awake Aunty Sybil!" said Rosie excitedly and rather loudly for Elizabeth who felt a terrible ache in her head. It must be the crying, she thought. Or perhaps Darcy hit me across the head and I can't remember? If she had been in less pain Elizabeth might have laughed at her own twisted humor.

Rosie's excitement was met with a "Do you have to be so loud?" by Archie and a "Give her some room, my darling," by Lady Sybil.

"Welcome to the land of the living," said Lady Sybil, now coming into view. Her statuesque figure stood from the chair she had been occupying, contrasting comically with the lethargic manner in which Elizabeth slowly rose into a sitting position.

Elizabeth could not recall waking up in this much pain after her craziest night dancing and drinking at Longbourn's many assemblies.

"Archie, why don't you be a gentleman and pour Miss Bennet a glass of water?" said Lady Sybil, coming to sit herself on the bed but keeping enough distance so that Rosie could sit next to Elizabeth.

"We were so worried Miss Bennet when you did not come to dress us," said Rosie.

After taking a much needed sip of water, which turned into her draining the whole glass, Elizabeth addressed her visitors.

"I am sorry to have worried you, Rosie. I was unwell that is all," said Elizabeth. She could not meet Lady Sybil's eyes which she could feel were scrutinising her.

"Well, Bessie did a good job as usual," said Rosie in a matter-of-fact way as she showed off her clothes. This drew a chuckle from Elizabeth who needed some humour to break through the heaviness she felt. This was short lived though as Rosie added. "Father said you won't be giving us lessons today and that we should not trouble you but we wanted to make sure you were fine."

Elizabeth paled slightly and this time could not resist meeting Lady Sybil's eyes which, though still scrutinising her, were warm and understanding.

"We also brought you these," said Archie, drawing Elizabeth's attention to the desk where a vase of fresh flowers had been placed. "We begged Mr Reeves to let us pluck some. He ended up doing it himself because he doesn't trust us but at least we still got the flowers." Archie smiled triumphantly and Elizabeth offered a weaker smile back.

"Thank you Archie," said Elizabeth a new wave of tears threatening to unleash as she remembered the earlier events which meant she was now effectively not their governess. They did not seem aware and Elizabeth did not know how to break the news to them.

"Why don't you two return to the nursery. I need to talk to Miss Bennet for a moment," said Lady Sybil, bringing Elizabeth back to the moment.

Rosie looked like she wanted to protest but Lady Sybil's look told her otherwise and the two begrudgingly left Elizabeth's room with promises to visit her before their bedtime.

"I believe you wanted to leave them this," said Lady Sybil, producing from the pocket of her dress the letter Elizabeth had penned for Archie and Rosie.

When Elizabeth had left for her walk that morning she had left the left on the desk intending to return and give it to Bessie but seeing as events had not unfolded as planned the letter had remained untouched at her desk. Elizabeth was grateful that Lady Sybil had seen the letter when she visited with the children before the children in question spotted it for it would have caused great confusion and pain.

"Thank you," said Elizabeth gratefully.

Lady Sybil did not waste time before she said, "I have not spoken to my nephew about the true extent of your argument but I know that when I do, my nephew will not be willing to colour himself in an unfavourable light. So, to make it just for you, I would appreciate it if I heard your version of events first."

Elizabeth hesitated, surprised at the turn of events. She had expected to be reprimanded or questioned for her insubordination. She had even expected repulsion at the position she had been found in when Lady Sybil arrived in the greenhouse. She had not expected understanding and kindness.

"Why are you interested in helping me?" asked Elizabeth, still uncertain as to whether she should disclose anything to Lady Sybil. She was only a governess after all. There were plenty of women like her, some possibly even better suited to being the passive governess Darcy wanted. Lady Sybil seemingly being on her side did not make sense.

Lady Sybil smiled and said, "Let us just say that my nephew has never had his authority challenged and I very much enjoy when people are reminded of their humanity once in a while."

Elizabeth could not help but chuckle along with Lady Sybil who was enjoying teasing Darcy even in his absence.

"But in all honesty, I only want what is best for my nephew and something tells me he needs you right now," at Elizabeth's raised brow, Lady Sybil restated "Or at least he needs your skills when it comes to the children. However, to know how I can help I need to hear your side of the story."

After a moment of silence, Elizabeth took a deep breath and unleashed. She did not realise she had so much to say until she started. It seemed her argument with Darcy had only cracked open the onslaught of frustration and anger but she had not had enough of an opportunity to truly express the issues at least to someone like Lady Sybil who was willing to listen rather than fight back.

Elizabeth did not start with the argument that had happened that morning. Instead she went back to her first meeting with Darcy and aired out all of the frustrations, issues, problems she had had with Darcy since then. She made sure to emphasise how she had been hopeful to be the best governess to his children; patient willing to follow his authority and she made sure to emphasise that all her actions were for the best interests of Rosie and Archie.

By the time she finished, her face was once again streaked with tears, her throat was tight and dry and she desperately needed more water and her headache now threatened to split her head in two.

Lady Sybil moved forward closing the gap between them and embraced Elizabeth. Elizabeth held on, grateful for an anchor to root her in the moment. When the two pulled back, Lady Sybil's eyes were watery.

"I am sorry my dear that my nephew has put you through such turmoil. I am not one to take sides but in this battle I am firmly in your corner," said Lady Sybil offering a comforting smile. "However, when it comes to my nephew, I am also biased because I have known him all his life and I promise you this version of Fitzwilliam is a version that is dealing with a lot of hurt and pain. And unfortunately he has not been able to channel that pain in the right way or towards the right person.

"I was only trying to help," said Elizabeth, her voice thick with emotion. She hated how small she sounded, her voice full of desperation to understand the puzzle that was Darcy.

"I know my dear," said Lady Sybil, embracing Elizabeth again. "Here is what I will guarantee you, if you stay-" and she clasped Elizabeth's hands to stall her protest, "if you stay, I will make sure my nephew does not trouble you again. You will undertake your duties as you wish and of course unless you transgress so as to require him to reprimand you, you will have free reign when it comes to the children."

"You cannot guarantee that, Lady Sybil," said Elizabeth sceptically. She knew Lady Sybil was persuasive, but she doubted her influence on Darcy extended that far.

"Do you trust me?" said Lady Sybil, choosing not to argue with Elizabeth for she was also not certain Darcy would want to keep Elizabeth on even if Elizabeth changed her mind and stayed.

"Yes, of course. You have truly been my ally in all of this," said Elizabeth now feeling apprehensive at the prospect of changing her mind. "But I don't know if I want to stay."

"I know," said Lady Sybil. "That is why I will give you as long as you need to think about my offer."

Elizabeth only sighed. She was now too exhausted to argue. She needed sleep, water and maybe some food for she could not remember the last time she had anything solid. At the dinner party she had only nibbled at her food, there had been more pressing matters than hunger.

"I will leave you now to get some rest but if you don't I have a few things I think will help you with the process," said Lady Sybil moving to the door and admitting two maids who were carrying a copper tub that two other maids carrying two buckets each of steaming water proceeded to fill, another maid carrying a tray of food and finally, Charlotte who hurried towards Elizabeth engulfing her in a fierce hug.

"I was already intending to visit but a little later in the day. When Lady Sybil sent one of the footmen with a letter explaining that my presence might be required, I had to make haste," said Charlotte who looked like she had indeed run to Pemberley.

Elizabeth could only stare disbelievingly at Lady Sybil. The lengths she had gone to care for Elizabeth were unheard of for someone who was essentially her superior.

"I shall leave you two to it," said Lady Sybil who headed for the door followed by the servants.

"Thank you," said Elizabeth to Lady Sybil who simply smiled and exited the room.

"You can tell me later what happened but for now what do you need?" said Charlotte once they were alone.

Elizabeth was grateful that Charlotte did not push the matter.

"A friend," said Elizabeth, embracing Charlotte again and thanking the universe for giving her some reprieve from the nightmare that had become her life.

Darcy had retreated to his study where, after instructing Thorpe to not be disturbed, he threw himself into his work. He needed to not think and all the documents he went through provided him the necessary distraction. It was not until later in the day when the sun was beginning to set that he emerged from his study. He was greeted by the sight of his sister, curled up in the window seat at the end of the hallway where his office was located. Judging by the tray on the floor, Georgiana had been there for a while and she looked like she had given up her vigil for she had now dozed off, book in hand.

Darcy took a moment to appreciate her efforts to come and see him even when his retreat had been a sign that he wanted to be left alone. But Georgiana had the remarkable quality of not giving up easily on people. For some who was mostly quiet and could be misunderstood as timid, she was tenacious when it came to the way she cared.

He remembered when she turned 5 and she was old enough to comprehend that Darcy's departure to University was for extended periods of time. Georgiana cried for a week after one of his departure to school which led his father to give in and take her for a visit out of desperation to make her stop crying.

"Georgiana," said Darcy, tapping her lightly on the shoulder to rouse her from sleep. It took a couple of moments before Georgiana came to and when she saw Darcy she smiled.

"Brother, I am glad to see you out of your cave," she teased. She straightened to a more comfortable sitting position leaving room for Darcy to join her.

"How long have you been waiting for me?"

"Not long," said Georgiana, trying to minimise the effort Darcy knew she had made. When he looked at her with a probing look she admitted. "Okay, I admit I followed you pretty soon after you left me and Aunt Sybil. I was worried about you, Fitzwilliam."

"I believe it is my duty as your older brother to do all the worrying," said Darcy, trying to make light of the moment.

"While that may be true, it does not negate that I still worry," said Georgiana looking at him knowingly. She recognised Darcy's attempts to dismiss his own feelings, it was a skill the Darcys were sadly adept at.

Darcy sighed and turned to sit so that he could stare at the sunset. "I was born for a sole purpose, Georgiana," said Darcy. And when Georgiana tried to protest, no doubt to remind him that he had many purposes as she believed, Darcy shook his head to stall her words. "I was born to be the master of this house, the Darcy estate, to preserve it and ensure it passes forward in the best condition for the next heir."

Darcy swallowed, he had not expected the wave of emotion. How could a day where he had expended so much energy thinking and feeling still leave more room for the same exhausting emotions?

"And part of that role, part of that duty was becoming a father. It was not even something I had to think about. It was expected of me. I would marry, have children, an heir and a spare but ideally a few." He chuckled when Georgiana exclaimed in shock at his revelation of how many children he wanted. "Yes," said Darcy, "I wanted a few to fill this house with laughter and singing and joy. I think mother once said to me when she was pregnant with you that she wanted to have a few more." He smiled sadly knowing that his mother had no control over her fate.

"Well if mother had had more children they would have to have been more like Aunt Sybil otherwise this would have been a house of silence," said Georgiana who now sat mirroring him. Darcy laughed appreciating Georgiana's humor. The two fell into silence again until Darcy continued.

"In knowing all these expectations of me, my one desperate prayer was that my children's mother would live long enough to see them talk, walk, go to school, bloom into beautiful boys or girls, get married. That was the only thing I ever asked of God and He could not grant me that." Darcy was now beyond the point of restraint and the emotions that had been welling up even long before the events of the morning came out like a flood.

He could sense Georgiana embracing him in a hug as he cried, truly let out the anger and pain he had carried for most of his life since he had lost his mother. He had been so bitter at her beautiful life being cut short, he had been so desperate to not have history repeat itself and even though the rational part of him knew that what happened to Anne was beyond his control he was so angry that God had not listened to him. Had he not been good? Had he not done right by his father? Had he not lived by a good standard? Why was he to repeat and suffer through the same pain he had felt as a 15 year old boy except now, he was the husband and father like his own father had been.

Darcy now realised that seeing the coldness that had engulfed his father, was what informed his reaction to Anne's death. He had tried the methods recommended to him to confront the grief. He had tried to act like a father. But he had never truly reconciled his emotions with his new status as a father whose children now needed him. If anything he had punished himself so much that he denied enjoying his duties as a father. In the irrational parts of his mind he had convinced himself that he did not deserve such good children. He had convinced himself that did not deserve them as he had caused the loss of their mother.

In this irrationality he had alienated his children. He hated to admit it but he had reduced his position in their life to a caretaker merely present to shepherd them through life until such a time as when he would pass on hopefully leaving them in the hands of a loving spouse. More loving than his father had been to his mother. More loving that he had been to Anne.

And Elizabeth's arrival had put into sharp relief how much he had embraced the darkness, the coldness. Her easy nature and open manner had allowed her to connect with his children in a way he desperately craved and yet had denied himself. This was more apparent when it came to Archie who, as the heir of the estate, Darcy had done a great disservice by treating him like his own father had. Except he felt worse about his actions because he was enlightened to how he had despised how his father had treated him and he had made a vow to not do the same to his own son. And yet here he was, holding his son at arm's length, never allowing himself to let his son know how much he truly loved him. Never allowing himself to love both of his children. He had turned into his father without realising and as a result he felt he did not deserve his children.

Darcy did not realise he had voiced that thought until Georgiana responded impassionedly, "Yes you do Fitzwilliam. You do! And you are not father!"

Georgiana took another moment hugging Darcy before she stepped back to allow Darcy room to calm down. After he had collected himself using his handkerchief to wipe his eyes and standing to expend some of the nervous energy, Georgiana clasped his hands and made eye contact. Her face was also tear streaked.

"Look at me Darcy. You are their father, they are your children. You deserve them and they deserve you. Do not ever doubt that! But I do not deny that -" at this she paused, taking a breath or maybe contemplating how to frame her sentence. It was rare to see Georgiana struggling to articulate herself because even though she was shy, she always spoke with eloquence. "I love you, Fitzwilliam. And you know I always regard your choices as wise and honourable. But with that love, it means there are some hard truths I have to impart courtesy of my role as your sister," said Georgiana, smiling in the hopes of bringing some levity to the moment. "You are a brilliant father but there is room for improvement." Georgiana's voice broke as if admitting the truth was painful.

Darcy knew that as hard as it was to hear, having the truth delivered from a person who loved him was the only way for it to sink in.

"We can speak more about how to go about that improvement but all I can say for now is that your children need you. And for you to give them what they need, you need to deal with the ghosts of the past," said Georgiana.

Darcy did not need Georgiana to articulate further to know which "ghosts" she spoke of. His mother, his father, Anne. While he was not haunted by the ghosts of his parents, his relationship with his father or lack there of had been a cloud over his life and his devotion to his mother had made it difficult to see his father in any other light other than the villain. It was difficult to think of the work he would have to do to let go of the things that had come to define his life. Tied to this was his need for control which he knew had been one of the reasons he had struggled to work with Elizabeth who was prone to defying authority.

"And while I do not know all that happened between you and Miss Bennet," continued Georgiana.

Darcy was not surprised that Georgiana was aware of the argument. In the time he had retreated he presumed Georgiana had spoken to Lady Sybil or even Elizabeth.

"I know that for the time I have known her, Miss Bennet has only meant well. I know you are opposites in how you view educating the children but I believe a middle ground can be reached which will work for the best interests of the children," said Georgiana.

Though he was not confident about the outcome of the situation with Elizabeth, Darcy marvelled at how Georgiana had matured into the wise, young woman who stood before him. Even with her own personal demons, Georgiana was strong and Darcy was grateful for her support.

"Thank you Georgiana," said Darcy, hugging his sister again. No more words needed to be exchanged for the moment. Darcy was simply content to have someone who understood.

Lady Sybil found the two seated at the window seat where they were now conversing about the book Georgiana had been reading in an attempt to avoid discussing the events that had occurred recently.

"I believe it is time you took your leave, Georgiana," said Lady Sybil.

Feeling the events of the day catching up to, Georgiana did not protest and bid her brother farewell.

"And I believe it is time you had a decent meal, a bath and good night's sleep," said Lady Sybil addressing Darcy who suddenly looked a decade older with the apparent weight on his shoulder. "I think the sleep would do you some good. I have had a bath and a meal prepared in your rooms."

Darcy nodded, also exhausted from all that had eventuated, "Thank you Aunt."

"Anything for my favourite nephew," said Lady Sybil as Darcy departed for his room. She knew that the time for the discussion about Elizabeth would come but for now she allowed Darcy a moment of peace.

After Charlotte had kept her company and assisted her with a bath, Elizabeth had her second round of sleep. And unlike the previous night when her dreams had turned into nightmares, Elizabeth had a dreamless sleep. She guessed Lady Sybil had asked the cook to put some wine in the broth she had prepared because combined with the glass of wine she had been offered, she had fallen asleep shortly after consuming her meal. She vaguely remembered Charlotte departing with the promise of visiting again the following day.

Elizabeth woke up in the middle of the night feeling sated and well rested. She attempted to fall back asleep but her mind started wandering back to the events of the previous day.

In particular her mind pondered if there was anything more behind her urge to kiss Darcy during their argument. Surely in such a moment where regrettable words were uttered, such thoughts of how Darcy's lips looked inviting were not appropriate. Elizabeth tried to dismiss it as a momentary loss of sanity, a symptom of the argument.

But if she was honest, Elizabeth knew that Darcy was an attractive man. Whether she was attracted to him was another matter entirely that she did not want to dwell on for the implications were great.

And there was also the matter of whether she would stay or leave Pemberley. What benefit is there to me staying, Elizabeth wondered. This was immediately met by an image of the children visiting her the previous day with hopeful faces. Leaving them would be difficult. And if Lady Sybil's promise is realised? What then?, Elizabeth continued to ponder.

Starting to feel the exhaustion from overthinking Elizabeth got out of bed and after some time pacing and trying and failing to sit down and pen a letter to Jane, for there was too much to write about, Elizabeth made her way down to the kitchens seeking some nourishment. While such behaviour was not condoned, Elizabeth figured she had a good excuse and if she encountered any servants she would play up an illness.

Rounding the corner into the kitchens Elizabeth was greeted by the sight of Darcy sitting alone at one of the tables. The gasp emitting from her alerted Darcy to her presence. He looked like he had been drinking a glass of milk. He quickly stood as she halted.

"Miss Bennet," said Darcy.

"Mr Darcy," said Elizabeth.

Just my luck, they both thought as they stared at each other wondering why the universe was determined to bring them together in the most unfortunate of ways and when they were least prepared to face the other.

A/N: I hope you enjoyed that. I know emotionally I am a bit exhausted after getting into Elizabeth and Darcy's head spaces at this moment in time. Too many tears but I hope the hugs from the Darcy family & co helped. And I apologise for any grammatical or punctuation errors. I had to publish this as soon as I finished the last sentence (hahaha) and I did not want to go back and revise too much otherwise it would be another week of me revising and editing. But thank you once again for reading! No promises for when chapter 10 will be out but it definitely will be out.