A/N - This is my longest chapter so far. I am trying to lengthen them to get more in each time. It doesn't always work.
I may blend chapters 6 and 7 together, since they are both the shortest ones. I won't do it until editing, though so I don't mess anything up here.
As for the issues with FF, I find refreshing (many times) eventually gets the correct chapter up, both on the app and the desktop webpage.
Chapter 13
March, 1814
Gardiner Residence
Dear Niece,
I regret I do not have better news. There is no doubt your husband's attorney is stonewalling me. His unavailability borders on deceit by this point. I am sure traveling is what you least desire to do at this time, however I do believe it is necessary.
Your aunt and I are honored to be Godparents and look forward to seeing you and meeting your son when we travel to Longbourn.
Kitty is excited to be returning home. I am sure you will note a little more steadiness and maturity when you next see her.
Yours Etc.
E. Gardiner
Longbourn
Jane adored spending time with her nephew. When he was in her arms, Elizabeth could finally see the Jane of old. Her goodness and sweet smiles were all for baby Alex.
It was a boon for Elizabeth as well. When Alex was fed, dry and sleeping, Jane gladly watched over him so her sister might return to her former habits of walking the grounds of Longbourn. It meant an escape from the home she no longer felt comfortable in. Memories, both sweet and sour rose up at every turn of a corner. She had outgrown Longbourn. Now she knew she had outgrown Meryton, as well. Her solitary walks, embraced by nature and at whichever speed she determined that day, was liberating. It had been far too long since she had the pleasure.
Between nursing and her daily exercise, her figure returned quite quickly. The only big change was her larger bosom and Elizabeth hoped they would reduce in size when Alex outgrew his need for her.
Elizabeth was cognizant of the weight loss she experienced after Lydia's and her mother's deaths. Far more than was ideal for her already slim figure. Between her mourning, enduring the Bennet name's ruination by Lydia's actions and living a solitary life in Plymouth awaiting Gregory's return, her appetite never quite returned to her.
Thank goodness it had not affected Alex. The midwife she had consulted there had warned her she was too thin and it could be detrimental to the babe she carried. Elizabeth had made an effort to eat, little though she desired to. In the end, it was her babe who taught her when it was time to sit down for a meal, no matter the time of day. As he grew and movement increased, she noticed the correlation between her meals and his activity. When she lost track of the day, yet noticed her babe quieted, she realized too much time had elapsed since her previous meal. As soon as she drank and ate, the babe became active again.
Being back on Longbourn's lands, Elizabeth relished the luxury of being outside. Every bird tweet, tree rustle and lungful of fresh air rejuvenated her. Standing at the top of Oakham Mount Elizabeth raised her face to the sky. Her skin warmed from the rising sun, and her mind emptied of everything; the past several years, the losses, and the obligations. This private time strengthened her to deal with all the issues she had not missed about her former home. Between nursing and the comfort of the country, her appetite was finally returning.
The exercise had the added element of calming her overwrought emotions. She had never been a weepy person, choosing to see the follies of life rather than be bogged down by its miseries. However, the extreme changes of all her recent upheavals had played havoc with her mental well-being. Sitting through the inanity of superficial social calls was the very thing to spark an upset, be it tears or temper.
Since Aunt Philips and Lady Lucas's visit, several other ladies had come to condole with her, and meet her son, but not as many as she would have expected. At first, she blamed this on not having yet been churched, but when a few of her mother's closest friends never showed she approached Jane with her concerns.
"Jane," Elizabeth decided to be upfront, "are the Bennets still being shunned?"
"Not exactly." Jane lowered her needlework. "Truthfully, we do not socialize or attend events, so there is little interaction. A few of the families do still keep their distance. However, I believe they are more embarrassed now at their past behavior than shunning us for Lydia's mistake. And they should be. My mother would still be alive if our neighbors had shown more christian charity."
"Jane. That speech screams of bitterness and is quite unlike you."
"Am I wrong? They treated mama in an infamous manner. Even if Lydia was silly and thoughtless, did she and our family not pay the price with her death?"
Elizabeth had no answer for her sister, and decided not to pursue it at present. The shade of anger, which had taken root in Jane's kind heart, gave her pause. It was so far from who her sister used to be.
"And have you thought more of my request to accompany me to the Gardiners? I know they have asked for you, as have our cousins. You might even meet someone."
"Lizzy, I am on the shelf and still penniless. Not to mention the black mark against our family. There is little point in trying."
"You do not know that. Mary and I have both married." Elizabeth hesitated before continuing in a quieter tone. "Jane… it pains me how you have cut yourself off from life."
When Elizabeth saw Jane's eyes fill with tears she moved closer and embraced her. "Forgive me, Jane. I do not wish to cause you further heartache."
"Neither of you married as you could have, Lizzy, and do not tell me you are not changed by all your experiences?"
"Of course I am, Jane. We all are. Even kitty, who has changed the least, has embraced a new maturity. I cannot afford to be a demure gentlewoman. I have a son to think of now."
The sisters fell into a calming silence. So much had already been said and refraining from speaking further now was a balm to both of the young ladies.
"Uncle and Aunt Gardiner are bringing Kitty with them for the christening. I am going to ask her to remain here. No matter your decision, it will be good for papa to have more interaction with others." Elizabeth paused, "I wonder if Mary and her husband would be interested in visiting."
With that, Jane laughed. "Lizzy! You will not leave this be until I agree to accompany you, will you?"
Elizabeth twinkled at her sister. "And is it working?"
"No. I will think about it and that is all I will say on the matter. Now cease nagging me." Jane leaned to the side and bumped her shoulder into Elizabeth's.
"Very well, I will stop. For now." She kissed Jane on the cheek and left to check on Alex.
~ / ~
April, 1814
London
"Is that another letter from Mrs. Carrington?" Darcy entered the morning room.
"Yes, she added a pencil drawing of Alex. Look, Will, at his adorable pudgy cheeks." A paper, creased with folds was lifted and shoved under his face.
"And how is she, err… and Alex too, of course?" He took the sheet and examined the visible alterations to baby Alex.
"They are well, still trying to adjust to being back at her father's estate. Shall I read it to you?"
"As long as there is not something she may not want me to know." Darcy handed her back the drawing and took a seat.
"No, in fact she even sends you her well wishes." Georgiana cleared her throat.
April, 1814
Hertfordshire
Longbourn
Dear Georgiana,
First, I have enclosed a most recent rendering of Alex.
I am afraid my talents still require practice but I must admit I believe it captures him well. Yes, those are his cheeks… Really!
My time here has been quiet, with only a few callers. I imagine that may change after I am churched, or perhaps not. The Bennets are not much in society in Meryton.
I will acknowledge my contentment with being able to walk Longbourn's lands again. Seeing the familiar paths and haunts is like getting reacquainted with old friends. I am fortunate the weather has been so favorable apart from some rain every so often. There is something so calming about being out in nature, witnessing the majesty of God's creation helps, somewhat, to put our trials and tribulations into perspective.
My uncle has had no luck so far receiving any answers. So, it seems I will be coming to town, after all.
I hope your return has gone as smoothly and quietly as you hoped.
Please give my best wishes to you brother.
Yours affectionately,
Elizabeth
"She sounds like you when describing Pemberley. Oh, Brother, we may see her and Alex soon. While it is unfortunate her struggle with the inheritance continues, I am well pleased to have the opportunity to visit with her and Alex soon."
"Pray, keep me posted if she says anything else about needing my help."
"Of course."
Darcy stood and departed the room, and Georgiana watched him leave a little smile playing around her mouth.
~ / ~
Longbourn
A month after Elizabeth's return, she asked her father to make arrangements for Alex's christening and for her to be churched. Uncle and Aunt Gardiner would be traveling to Longbourn to take their place as Alex's godparents, bringing Kitty home with them.
Elizabeth, it would seem, must go to Town. The lawyer handling Gregory's affairs refused to meet with Mr. Gardiner and trying to get information through gossip hit a wall, too. She will return to London with them, and present herself at his office in person.
The breakfast following the christening was going to be a small affair. Only the Philips' shall attend. Although the Lucas's were invited, they declined. A modest repast was planned under Jane's supervision with Mrs. Hill.
The Gardiners arrived the afternoon before the event and much noise and merriment filled Longbourn's rooms, as everyone settled and was introduced to the newest family member.
"May I present Master Gregory Alexander. Or Alex, as that little appellative seems to have taken hold."
"Oh, Lizzy, he is beautiful." Mrs. Gardiner took him from Elizabeth's arms and held him to show her husband.
"Such a mix of both you and your husband." Pointing a finger to nudge Alex's hand, Mr. Edward Gardiner smiled widely when his great nephew grabbed on to clasp the large finger, with his tiny hand.
Smiling at their antics, Elizabeth agreed. "He seems to have inherited the best of us both."
"He is a dear, Lizzy. Your husband would have been so proud of you." Mrs. Madeline Gardiner kissed her niece's cheek.
"Alex is a good baby, so Mrs. Hill informs me. He was a little small at birth, Mrs. Hobbs, I told you about her in my letter, told me such was normal seeing my labor came on early. Thankfully, he has a healthy appetite and has already put on a good amount of weight. He fusses a bit here and there. Although he rarely cries, unless he has waited too long for my attention."
That evening the Longbourn home was filled with chatter and love. Even Mr. Bennet joined everyone in the drawing room after the meal.
"Kitty," called Mrs. Gardiner, "Will you play for us? Your playing has improved over the last six months. I am sure everyone will enjoy listening."
A blushing Kitty, rose from her seat and walked over to the piano. "I am not very accomplished yet."
"Play what you feel comfortable with, dear." Mr.s Gardiner encouraged.
Kitty began haltingly, but as she grew less self conscious, her playing improved. When she finished the song, everyone clapped.
"That was a lovely rendition of Greensleeves, Kitty. You played it with much feeling. Well done." Elizabeth could not have complimented her sister any higher than those words.
"Thank you, Lizzy!" A sweet blush bloomed on Kitty's cheeks. "That means a great deal, coming from you."
Just then the maid came, asking for Elizabeth. "Alex needs me, so I will wish you all a good night, and see you in the morning."
The calls of 'good night' followed in her wake as she exited the drawing room and climbed the stairs to her chamber, where a hungry Alex awaited her attention.
~ / ~
London
Lady Matlock had invited Darcy and Georgiana for a small family dinner. Their second son, Richard was unable to be excused from his regimental duties, so it was just the four of them that evening.
Nothing of serious import was spoken of during the meal, until Lord Matlock spoke up to his nephew. "I say Darcy. You mentioned that young widow, what's her name, Carrington yes?"
"Yes, she married the third the son of the earl of Carrington."
"Did she, indeed? I recall why the name sounded familiar. Gossip around the House is Carrington is pockets to let. Unsurprising, really. He, and his son, so I have heard, are well sunk into the worst habits." he lowered his chin to give Darcy a look from under his eyebrows, remaining circumspect in front of the ladies. "Instead of taking care of the estate or managing investments, they have run it to the ground. I do hope your young widow has other family to care for her. She will not be getting any help from that quarter."
"Oh, but she has." Georgiana was quick to defend her friend, and her brother was quick to agree.
"The lady has people looking out for her. However, if you recall I mentioned I may ask for assistance regarding her inheritance from her husband. It is possible Lord Carrington is trying to circumvent inheritance laws and steal the money left to her in her husband's will. It may take one earl to counter another."
Lord Matlock waved his fork in the air. "Yes. Yes. We cannot have our war heroes thinking their loved ones will not be safe and taken care of, if they never return. It will set an uncomfortable precedent. They might not wish to leave their families for the front lines and we cannot have that, now can we. Let me know when you need my help. It will be dealt with."
Dessert was finished, and Lord Matlock forwent the separation and he and Darcy joined the ladies in the drawing room.
Lady Matlock had prepared tea for whomever wished it and turned to her niece. "Georgiana, I did want to discuss your coming out in more detail. I really think we must make more of a splash. You are a Fitzwilliam. It will be expected."
"Aunt, I am firm in desiring a soft beginning. I wish to hold with brother's half year of mourning, but as I agreed to, I shall be happy to attend a couple of dinners and a concert or two, and perhaps a play. I appreciate everything you would like to do, but I do not wish for my own coming out ball until Brother can dance the first set with me."
Lady Matlock did not appear pleased, but the first discussion they had regarding Georgiana's coming out had gotten heated. The Darcy siblings made their wishes very clear and an ostentatious set of affairs was not on the list.
"I suppose we may discuss a ball when the mourning for Anne is over. Although, no one would look askance if we held it after the half year is up. After all, everyone will understand the importance for Fitzwilliam to seek a new bride." Lady Matlock looked at her nephew to check his response. Seeing his lips tighten, she did not press. "We can discuss it at a later date, of course."
"Of course." Darcy offered his aunt a brief bow. "A ball at the right time is acceptable. We are all proud of Georgiana and want Society to know it.
Feeling some relief, Lady Matlock was pleased she would be able to show off her niece at a grand formal affair. Even if it is after the summer during the little Season.
"Darcy," Lord Matlock burst out loudly, "do you really concur to this paltry come out for Georgiana?"
"I do, but most importantly it is what my sister wants. And I trust her to know what is best for herself."
Hesitant to ruffle feathers again, Lady Matlock made her first suggestion, "Excellent. There is a concert in two days time and I know I shall have no trouble getting invitations for us. We can introduce Georgiana to our friends and let people know the Darcys are back in Town. Georgiana, it will be good for you to meet young people, both the ladies and the gentlemen. Fitzwilliam, it will not go amiss for you to engage with the Ladies."
"Aunt, I have no interest in being back on the marriage market. This is Georgie's time."
"Yes, yes, I understand." She wafted a hand in the air, shooing away his words. "It will all be perfectly fine."
Later that night after her maid had assisted her and completed her service for the night, Georgiana sat down to write a letter to Elizabeth.
April, 1814
London
Darcy House
Dear Elizabeth,
I was so pleased to receive your latest rendering of Alex. Your skills are much improved.
When I hold the sketches you have sent side by side it is clear to see how Alex has altered and grown.
We dined with the Matlocks this evening and of course discussion turned to my coming out. I insist on respecting Brother's mourning, so far as a ball is concerned, but I will begin to attend some events. While I am not as apprehensive about being introduced to Society as I had been a few years ago, I still dislike being the object of attention. I am not so different from my brother in that, I imagine.
I am sorry your neighbors are still holding the Bennets at arms length. Those outside a tragedy will never truly understand until they have borne one themselves. In the meantime they point and whisper behind their hands, spreading gossip to whomever they can.
Your village is a small version of what goes on in the Ton. Sadly, I do not believe it will change any time soon.
We have not been in London a month yet and already I miss Pemberley. I am especially fond of my mother's rose garden. There is one perfect spot, where my father built for her a shaded archway and bench. I do not have many memories of my mother, but it makes me feel close to her when I sit there.
Pray, let me know when you arrive and I will come to visit you and Alex.
Farewell for now, dear friend
Georgiana
~ / ~
A few days later, Col Richard Fitzwilliam entered while Darcy and Georgiana were still breaking their fast.
"Richard!"
She jumped up and ran to him to give him first a small curtsey and then a big hug.
"How are you, poppet?"
"I am well. How are you?" she leaned back to look at him. "You look tired."
"It is nothing. A lot of traveling for the war office."
Darcy too had risen and made his way over to greet the newcomer.
"Richard, it is good to see you. Would you like to join us?"
"Indeed, I was hoping to be in time to partake. I would not miss a meal your cook prepares if I can help it." His grin was cocky and he kept them entertained with humorous stories of his fellow soldiers during the meal.
When Georgiana finished her meal she excused herself to prepare for her outing with Lady Matlock.
"We are for the modiste today. She says if I am not going to appear often I should at least appear memorable."
"You would be memorable even in sackcloth poppet."
She laughed "I am sure I would be, cousin, especially if I did appear in a sackcloth."
Richard watched her walk away with a smirk, then faced the younger man. "She is magnificent, Darce. You did very well with her."
"I do not think I did anything at all. It is all Georgiana."
When he saw Richard look at him skeptically, Darcy clapped him on the shoulder. "Do you have somewhere to be?"
"Not until this afternoon."
"In that case, join me. I have a tale to share."
I hope you enjoyed!