Chapter 23
Lady Catherine had departed Netherfield hours earlier, but the effects of her visit were still evident.
The presence of her nephew embracing Miss Elizabeth Bennet had turned her ladyship quite wild, and the main recipient of her anger was “that impertinent country nobody, who uses her charms to defeat the respectability of honorable gentlemen.”
The preoccupied couple was utterly astonished by Lady Catherine’s abrupt entrance – which neither of them noticed for a time – and could do nothing to interrupt the furious invective that followed.
Darcy attempted to greet his aunt politely and have a reasonable conversation; he even apologized for not informing her earlier of their engagement, and then expressed his wishes that Lady Catherine would soon understand and accept his decision. At that, her storm of words continued with greater force against both Elizabeth and Darcy.
Never in her life had Elizabeth been abused in such a way, and the offense she felt was even worse because of Darcy’s presence. And never had she been more tempted to put aside any trace of civility in response to the attack. She cast a quick glance toward Darcy and saw his angry face darkening; instantly her hand slid into his and he entwined his fingers with hers. At that moment, she no longer cared about Lady Catherine’s presence.
“You cannot possibly consider marrying this woman! Honor, decorum, prudence forbid it. She will never be noticed by your family or friends! She will be censured, slighted, and despised by every one connected with you. Your alliance will be a disgrace; your name will never even be mentioned by any of us ever again! Do you not care about all that? What has this creature done to you to make you disrespect your mother’s memory and wishes?”
“Lady Catherine, you will end this scandalous argument at once.” Darcy’s tone was icy and sharp. He took a step toward his aunt as though to protect Elizabeth from her abuse. “I shall not tolerate another word against Miss Bennet, so please allow me to accompany you to your carriage.”
“To my carriage? I have no intention of leaving – I still have much to say about this subject.”
“No, you have not! And if it were not for our close family connection, this conversation would have been finished in a less civil way, long ago. Come, Aunt, we have already exposed ourselves to ridicule with this scandalous debate, which has certainly reached the ears of every servant in the house. Let us maintain some slight appearance of civility!”
"Not so hasty, if you please. What about her sister’s elopement with Wickham? You think I do not know about that? Would you accept the son of your father's steward to be your brother? Heaven and earth – of what are you thinking? Are the shades of Pemberley to be thus polluted? Has this woman’s charms blinded you to everything else?”
“Lady Catherine!” he thundered, taking another step toward her.
“William?” Elizabeth’s light voice fell like a summer breeze upon the heated tension in the library and Darcy turned to her.
“If you have no objection to my family, Lady Catherine’s opinion on this subject has no effect on me - so please do not allow her offensive words to affect you.”
He looked at her, obviously surprised at her calm voice and cheery expression; her eyes sparkled with amusement, and he felt not only love, but also admiration. “You are too kind and too wise… How could I object to your family when my own is so lacking in decorum and politeness?”
“I heard that, Darcy! Do not dare ignore me or silence me! I shall make my disapproval universally known in Town and…”
Darcy was still facing Elizabeth, their eyes locked; she leaned toward him, her lips twisted into a mischievous smile, completely ignoring her ladyship’s presence. “Lady Catherine’s obvious disapproval is a great misfortune indeed, and I am sure it will be painful to endure; however, I am also sure that, as your wife, I shall have such extraordinary sources of happiness that I shall surely, upon the whole, have no cause to repine."
He released a short peal of laughter and then, under Lady Catherine’s shocked stare, lifted Elizabeth’s hand and placed a soft kiss upon it.
“I shall leave you two now,” Elizabeth continued. “Lady Catherine’s situation seems quite pitiable at present; but, unfortunately, I can offer no palliation for her ladyship’s distress, so I will beg you to excuse me.”
She curtsied politely to Darcy and to a stone-faced, livid Lady Catherine and smiled sweetly to her. “Lady Catherine, it was a pleasure to see you again. I hope we shall meet again very soon and perhaps have some tea together. Please give my regards to the Collinses – in fact, if your ladyship delays her departure a little longer, I could write a letter to Charlotte. Would your ladyship be so kind as to deliver it?”
No coherent answer was forthcoming, and Elizabeth left the library with perfect composure, followed by Darcy’s admiring gaze.
In the hall, an entire gathering of servants apologized and disappeared instantly. Embarrassed, yet struggling to keep a light expression, Elizabeth was at least grateful that
Jane and Mr. Bingley had not returned from their stroll, and Miss Bingley and the Hursts were still in their rooms. The Colonel had gone out for a long ride less than an hour before, so he was expected to be absent for some time. It was fortunate that only servants were present to witness Lady Catherine’s openly expressed disapproval!
Elizabeth went directly to Cassandra’s chamber, where she found Georgiana keeping her friend company; fortunately, it appeared the scandal had not reached that wing of the house.
“So – the old bat finally made her appearance. I wondered when this glorious moment would come.”
“Lady Catherine is here? Oh dear – this cannot be good,” whispered Georgiana, her countenance anxious.
“Yes…she came to express her disapproval of my engagement to your brother.”
“I imagine she was very displeased… I am so sorry, Elizabeth. And where is William? Does he know she is here?”
“William is in the library with Lady Catherine. And yes – she was displeased, more than displeased.”
“Dearest Elizabeth.” Georgiana took her hand and squeezed it warmly. “I can see you are distressed. Was it so bad? Did she offend you? I know sometimes my aunt can be very…”
Cassandra interrupted her. “I am sure she was more than displeased – she must have been as she always is: rude, impolite, inconsiderate, and insufferable.”
“There is no need to worry, Georgiana” Elizabeth replied, smiling bitterly. “I am perfectly able to handle Lady Catherine’s displeasure.” Then she turned to Cassandra with a meaningful look. “I see you know Lady Catherine very well indeed.”
“Indeed, I do. I first met her about twenty years ago. As a small child, I was quite frightened by her; but, by the time I was seven, she started to amuse me with her constant scolding of everyone and her pretensions of grandeur. I am sure you are amused by her as well, Elizabeth; you are too wise to allow yourself to be affected by Lady Catherine’s reproaches.”
“Well, I confess the entire situation was more uncomfortable and embarrassing than amusing, especially as her appearance was so unexpected.”
“But where did you meet Lady Catherine?” asked Georgiana.
“William and I were in the library when Lady Catherine entered.” Elizabeth’s cheeks colored slightly while she explained the situation, and Cassandra watched her with an amused twist of her lips.
“I can only imagine what scandal Lady Catherine aroused. I wonder if there is a single servant left in the house who is not aware of her opinion.”
“I do not think there is.”
“Did she happen to mention that Darcy must marry Anne?”
“She did.”
“What a surprise… Poor Anne – her mother will never cease to expose her to ridicule with this hilarious nonsense. You know, when we were infants, I was the main recipient of Lady Catherine’s anger, as she was certain I planned to steal Darcy from Anne and marry him myself. Of course, I was ten at the time and, though Darcy and I were inseparable, marriage was not among my priorities,” Cassandra laughed.
“Cassandra, I truly do not understand how you can blithely dismiss all of this. It is very serious indeed… I wonder what Lady Catherine will do now.”
“Come now, sweetie – you have changed so much in the last months that I would say it is time to stop worrying about Lady Catherine. I feel pity for Anne; this is true. But otherwise, I am merely diverted by this woman who travels fifty miles to make a fool of herself and become the amusement and gossip of Meryton.”
“Cassandra, I admit I am worried, too – not for me, but for Georgiana and William. Lady Catherine insisted she will make her disapproval universally known in Town, and the rumors…”
“Dear Elizabeth, calm yourself. Lady Catherine speaks a great deal but – fortunately – most people have the good sense to ignore her. As for her disapproval, the moment your engagement was made public, everybody acquainted with Lady Catherine and the Darcys must have guessed her disapproval; it will be no surprise to anyone.”
“I surely hope so…”
Their conversation was interrupted by the entrance of a very troubled Darcy, who almost ignored his sister and his friend and moved directly to Elizabeth. His countenance was still darkened with anger and he avoided looking at Elizabeth, though he was only a step away from her. She rose from her seat and tried to meet his eyes.
“William? Is everything well?”
“Where is Lady Catherine?” Georgiana inquired with no little distress.
“Lady Catherine has left… But no, everything is not well… Elizabeth, can you ever forgive me for what happened?”
He took her hand and held it while his pleading, apologizing glance locked on her face. Elizabeth smiled sweetly and, without considering the impropriety of her gesture in the presence of the others, gently stroked his cheek.
“Surely you will not apologize for something that is not your fault, sir.”
“It is my fault. I should not have allowed her to…”
“You know as well as I that nothing would have stopped Lady Catherine from expressing her opinion – so stop troubling yourself. Besides, I have a confession to make to you – there is something which makes me feel deeply ashamed of myself.”
“What confession?” He sounded equally puzzled and worried.
“Last spring, when we were in Kent – when I first met Lady Catherine – I thought I saw resemblances between you and your aunt.” Her voice tried to be light and teasing, but she could not hide her embarrassment. “It was a time during which I had grossly misjudged many things…and many people,” she whispered.
“Do not worry, Elizabeth. You were not so wrong.” Cassandra’s gleeful voice interrupted Elizabeth’s confession. “From my point of view, I can also see some resemblance indeed. You do look like Lady Catherine sometimes, Darcy.”
“We are not speaking to you, Cassandra, so please do not interfere.” Darcy scolded her with mocking severity.
“Yes, I noticed you are not speaking to us, which is quite strange considering you are in my room.” She replied in the same manner, and Georgiana covered her mouth with her palm so prevent a peal of laughter.
Facing each other mere inches apart, one of her hands still in his, Elizabeth and Darcy continued to attend only to each other. Her cheeks colored, clearly embarrassed by the impropriety of her own behavior, her eyes sparkling with emotion. Elizabeth daringly rose on her toes and placed a soft kiss upon Darcy’s cheek. “You do not look like Lady Catherine at all,” she whispered to him tenderly, and Georgiana chuckled while Cassandra burst out laughing.
“Yes he does, but love makes people blind, so you cannot see it,” Cassandra concluded.
Darcy ignored her; and, taking Elizabeth’s hand, he lifted it to his lips, his eyes never leaving hers. “Cassandra?”
“Yes, Darcy?”
“You are very annoying.”
“Thank you, Darcy; you are very kind…exactly like Lady Catherine.” This time Georgiana could not hold back her laughter; and, a moment later, both Darcy and Elizabeth had no choice but to return their attention to their companions and join them in their gaiety.
They sat around Cassandra – who was still on forced bed rest – and continued to discuss the delicate matter of Lady Catherine’s visit, until Darcy decided they should drop the subject entirely.
“Darcy?”
“Yes, Cassandra?”
“May I ask you one last question regarding Lady Catherine’s visit?”
“Can I prevent your asking?”
“No, indeed.”
“Then please do.”
“In precisely what kind of conversation were the two of you engaged when Lady Catherine happened upon you in the library?”
***
Time passed peacefully at both Netherfield and Longbourn – as peacefully as possible, considering Mrs. Bennet’s restlessness and the poor state of her nerves. She struggled continuously to prepare the “most perfect wedding Hertfordshire has ever seen,” as she frequently told her sister and Mrs. Long.
The day the wedding gowns arrived for both Jane and Elizabeth, Mrs. Bennet’s distress would not be appeased: Elizabeth’s dress was “shockingly simple, with no lace at all,” and she was positive that, in his displeasure, Mr. Darcy would refuse to marry her altogether. Nothing Mr. Bennet said would soothe her. Elizabeth’s part in having chosen such a dress was so unforgivable that she was allowed to voice no explanation. Elizabeth was equally amused and annoyed, and wisely chose to return to her room and wait for her mother’s nerves to calm.
It was to Elizabeth’s great fortune that Miss Darcy, together with Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley, arrived for a visit. As Miss Darcy was admiring Elizabeth’s gown, Mrs. Bennet entered the room; and, without realizing the effect of her words, Georgiana turned to her. “Mrs. Bennet, I was just telling Elizabeth how lovely this gown is! So perfectly elegant in its simplicity – such a high quality of fabric! Another proof of Elizabeth’s impeccable taste – William will be delighted when he sees her in it.”
Mrs. Bennet’s eyes opened in shock and, for a moment, she forgot to breathe; then she hastily burst out, “Oh, Miss Darcy, I am so happy to see you approve of the gown! It is somewhat simple, but the fabric is indeed of the highest quality – I told that to my Lizzy! Some lace would help to improve Lizzy’s appearance, but if you say Mr. Darcy would be pleased – this is all I want.”
“He will be, I am certain, and how could he not? Elizabeth is so beautiful!”
“Yes, she is,” Mrs. Bennet agreed hesitantly, wondering if both the Darcys might be slightly nearsighted to consider Lizzy a beauty, but being grateful for the affliction nonetheless.
“Thank you, my dear,” Elizabeth laughed after her mother left the room. “You just saved my sanity.”
“What do you mean, Elizabeth?”
“Well, my mother was quite displeased with my dress until you expressed such a favorable opinion.”
“I see… You and Mrs. Bennet seem to have very different tastes,” Georgiana replied carefully, and Elizabeth laughed again.
“Very different, indeed! Please forgive me for placing you in the middle of this din; our home is a little chaotic these days, but it will soon pass.”
“Yes, there is less than a week until your wedding. Our homes in London and Pemberley will be…considerably less animated than Longbourn. I hope you will not consider them too quiet…or perhaps even boring.”
“Oh, I am certain I will adore your home; I loved Pemberley the first moment I saw it. How can you think I would consider it boring?”
“It will be your home soon, Elizabeth.”
“Our home,” Elizabeth said gently, taking Georgiana’s hand affectionately.
“Elizabeth, I am so happy you will be my sister!”
“I am happy too, Georgiana…and grateful…and still wondering at how fortunate I am to be marrying such a wonderful man as William and acquiring another dear sister in the bargain.”
They were both tearful and, for some time, looked at each other, holding hands in silence. Elizabeth fought with her emotions and forced an open smile. “So, let us speak of Netherfield now. How is everyone there? How is Cassandra today?”
“Cassandra is very well! She is improving every day, but I am certain you have noticed that as you have visited her daily.”
“Yes, I have noticed that she has regained her health, her strength and her spirit. She has been such a reliable support for Jane and me all this time, as I confess we are both quite nervous about the wedding.”
“Oh, I am glad you confessed it, but it was hardly a secret,” Georgiana laughed. “And you seem to bear it reasonably well, but Jane appears somehow…I do not know…frightened. I hope you do not mind I said that, it is just that…”
“Georgiana, of course I do not mind; in fact, I must tell you how grateful I am for your friendship and concern for my dearest Jane. She grew so close to both you and Cassandra – which is very fortunate and very helpful for her, as I have been too preoccupied with my own thoughts and have quite neglected her.”
“There is no need to thank me; I am fond of Jane and have come to consider her my sister, too. As for Cassandra, I think she was pleased to be able to spend so much time with both you and Jane and to be of some help, though she still must keep to her bed. Jane appeared to be very comfortable with Cassandra. They have spent quite some time talking together lately. But this is strange indeed,” Georgiana concluded. “Why would you both be so nervous about your wedding? And why would Jane be frightened about marrying Mr. Bingley? He is the most amiable man I have ever met, and his affection for Jane is apparent.”
“Well, there are things to be concerned about,” said Elizabeth tentatively, blushing slightly while she arranged the gown back into the closet. “But let us change the subject. How is the Colonel? I was hoping to see him today, too.”
“He is very well; he will join us for dinner later.”
“Things seemed to develop favorably for Cassandra and the Colonel; I have seen them in each other’s company lately, and they appeared comfortable together – even friendly.”
“Yes, they are almost as they used to be. They seem to have reached an understanding, but I do not know of what kind. Of course, neither of them spoke about that. However, they each ask me about the other several times a day; even more, Cassandra invited David to have tea with her – and with Mrs. Spencer and me, of course, but still. They are always very nice to each other, not as they used to be, but nice…in a different way. And I think David sent her flowers a couple of times and…”
“Yes?”
“I think Cassandra was a little…jealous.”
“Jealous? Of whom?”
“Well, do you remember when we all had dinner here? And the Lucases were invited, too?”
“I do.”
“I told Cassandra what a lovely time we had and mentioned that even David seemed to have a nice evening…and then a couple of days later you all came and had dinner at Netherfield…”
“Yes…”
“And Cassandra insistently asked me who else was in the company, and…”
“Georgiana, dearest…I do not think Cassandra was jealous, and I do not think you should play matchmaker…at least not with Cassandra and the Colonel.”
“Oh, do not worry – I do not play anything. I am only trying to reach a satisfactory conclusion to this story. And I know I am right. I am a Darcy after all, and we are never wrong,” she said, bursting out into peals of laughter – and Elizabeth could do nothing but join her a moment later.
***
Three days before the wedding, a disaster happened at Longbourn. Just an hour before the dinner to which Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy – as usual – were invited, an accident took place in the kitchen and ruined two of the main dishes. Nobody knew exactly what occurred because Mrs. Bennet almost fainted from the distress while she blamed first Hill and John, and then the entire staff and, finally, the whole world.
With great effort, Elizabeth and Jane persuaded their mother to rest in her chamber while Hill – tearful and apologizing continuously – hurried to prepare a new meal.
“Oh Lizzy, I knew something like that would happen! What will Mr. Darcy say now? He will certainly believe I am not able to manage my own household and that I taught you nothing in this respect.”
“Mama, I am certain Mr. Darcy has a very good opinion of how well you are managing Longbourn – he has told me this many times. You have absolutely no reason to be distressed for such a small incident.”
“Small incident? We have dinner guests and nothing for dinner!”
“Please calm yourself, mama. Hill will surely prepare something for us shortly; and, to tell you the truth, this delay is quite welcome as I was not hungry at all.”
“Nor am I, mama.” Jane also attempted to console her mother.
“Oh, I am not worried about you girls! I am concerned about Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley. They are hungry; I am sure of that.”
“Well, I am certain they will survive another hour or so,” laughed Elizabeth, unable to remain serious any longer.
“Oh, vexing child, you like to torture me with your inconsiderate jokes! You would better find a way to keep your fiancé’s attention before they leave!”
“Do not worry, mama; I have serious doubts they will consider leaving for that.”
“You should take them for a turn in the garden, Lizzy! I noticed Mr. Darcy is always willing to take a stroll with you – which is very strange, if you ask me! I would think that a man with his fortune would rather ride in his carriage or upon his horse; but then again, Mr. Darcy has some very unusual habits – very similar to yours, Lizzy.”
“Thank you, mama; I shall follow your advice immediately. I would very much like a walk in the garden, and I think Mr. Darcy will not oppose such an idea. Jane, will you and Mr. Bingley accompany us?”
“Yes, I believe so…if mama does not need me any longer.”
“Oh, of course I do not need you, silly child. Go and take care of your betrothed at once.
As she was afraid her mother might change her mind, Elizabeth grabbed Jane’s hand and hurried from the chamber. In the hall, they could hear Mrs. Bennet complaining of her nerves and the lack of understanding from her family.
“Well, well – you are back. Is Mrs. Bennet well?” asked Mr. Bennet with obvious amusement.
“She is resting, papa; I dare say all is well.”
“What extraordinarily good news, Lizzy. So, gentlemen, should we retire in the library for another hour or so? My port is waiting for us.”
Darcy cast a quick glance at Elizabeth while considering how to reply, and she blushed slightly but did not hesitate to intervene. “Papa, Jane and I were thinking that maybe a short walk in the garden would be beneficial…I mean, if Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley would agree to join us.”
A brief moment of confusion followed – the two, puzzled gentlemen looking from their fiancées to their future father-in-law – finally, Mr. Bennet took pity on them. For a moment, he had been tempted to torment them by insisting the gentlemen keep him company, but he quickly decided that having fun at the expense of his dearest daughters would have been too cruel.
“Of course you are right, Lizzy. A quick stroll before dinner would be more beneficial than an hour indoors – more beneficial indeed. And I have a book I intend to finish this evening.”
He did not wait for any replies before departing to his library, a mischievous smile twisting his lips.
Less than five minutes later, the couples were outside, each lady taking her betrothed’s arm.
“It is a very nice evening.” Bingley started the conversation.
“Yes, very nice, though quite cold,” Darcy agreed instantly, covering Elizabeth’s hand with his palm. Their gloved fingers entwined and Jane, who did not fail to notice the gesture, blushed violently.
“Mama sends her apology to you both for this unfortunate delay,” Elizabeth said politely.
“Oh, there is no need to apologize. In fact, I consider this little delay quite welcome – this little walk is quite delightful,” offered Bingley, and Jane smiled shyly, grateful for her fiancé’s kindness and understanding.
“Quite delightful,” agreed Darcy and then added very seriously, “Miss Bennet, Bingley, would you please excuse us for a few minutes? There is something of great importance about which I would like to speak privately with Elizabeth.”
His request took the other couple by surprise, but Darcy seemed insensitive to their reaction. In fact, he did not expect a complete answer before he directed Elizabeth to take an alternate path toward the back of the house.
When they were a few yards away, Elizabeth started to laugh. “That was not very gentlemanlike of you, William – not to mention very improper. Poor Mr. Bingley looked quite shocked, and Jane was equally distressed.”
“My dearest Elizabeth, I finally have the chance to spend a few minutes alone with you and do not intend to waste them by worrying about Bingley’s state of mind. As for Miss Bennet, I am truly sorry if I offended her, but I hope Bingley will succeed in alleviating her distress. However, if you wish us to return to them…”
“I most certainly wish it…as soon as we have finished talking about that matter of great importance,” she replied teasingly.
Darcy took her hand and entwined his fingers with hers again while she leaned against him and they continued to walk through the back garden.
“Let us pause here.” He indicated a bench, out of view of the house. Elizabeth looked at him, and her eyebrow rose in mocking reproach.
“We would be completely unchaperoned here, sir. Not to mention that it is already dark, so our situation is even more improper.”
“Yes, I am aware of that,” he said while he sat and gently pulled her near him. She laughed. “You seem to give little consideration to my reputation, sir.”
“We are to be married in less than three days, madam. I dare say I could do little harm to your reputation.”
“Well, it depends,” she managed to reply before his lips captured hers in a tender, gentle kiss.
“You know,” Elizabeth said some time later, when she was able to breathe again, “Mama insisted I should distract your attention before dinner is ready. She was afraid you would be upset and leave.”
“Well, I am pleased to see you are such a diligent, obedient daughter. I will report to Mrs. Bennet that you performed your duty admirably.”
“Thank you sir,” she whispered against his lips and then daringly engaged his attention once more.
“Elizabeth, I confess I have lost all patience; I can scarcely wait to be married and leave all this behind.”
“I feel the same,” she admitted, suddenly shy. “And I can imagine how difficult it is for you to handle my noisy family…”
“Oh, no, no – do not think I am speaking of your family; not at all! But I would be grateful to be able to move to our home, with nobody around except you; I have to say, I am forever indebted to Bingley for hosting us at Netherfield all this time, but living with Miss Bingley and the Hursts is very difficult to bear, despite Bingley’s kindness.”
“Oh, I am very sorry,” Elizabeth said sympathetically, but she could not help laughing. “However, I am confident that you may compensate any unpleasant moments with other more pleasant company. You have Georgiana and Cassandra – and the Colonel to keep you entertained.”
“Yes, very much entertained, indeed,” he smiled while he placed another soft kiss on her cheek. “You should pity me, you know. I am grateful Cassandra is making a full recovery, but she has become even more cruel than before. She has found the greatest enjoyment in having fun at my expense with David and my own sister joining her.”
“Why would they make fun of you?”
“Well, it appears there is nothing more humorous than a single man awaiting his wedding day.”
“Oh, now I understand,” she said tenderly, while she cupped his face with her small hands. “But at least they are making fun of Mr. Bingley, too, are they not?”
“No indeed – at least not as much. It seems I am the main beneficiary of their teasing.”
“I am sorry,” she replied, her lips caressing his cheeks.
“I am not sorry at all, my dearest. The prospect of having you as my wife is worth any torture I have to endure,” he said as she laughed again.
“I have to say I am amazed, sir, seeing how much you have changed since we met last autumn. You are even more handsome when you smile, and you have become a true expert at teasing…’
“Even more so in being teased,” he admitted with amusement. He ungloved her hand, and his lips gently kissed her warm fingers. “I have changed, Elizabeth, because you were worthy of a better man…”
“No, indeed sir! There is no better man than you – and I am happy to say you did not change at all in essentials. You just…smile more…and you are less proper and less restrained and severe than I believed you to be.”
His lips were still caressing her fingers and her other hand gently stroked his face but their touches – though gentle and light – became heavier with passion and desire.
Their lips met again, with an urgency that left them both breathless, yet not even the need for air could separate their mouths so hungry for each other. Their present position on the bench soon became uncomfortable and – to Elizabeth’s astonishment – Darcy put his arms around her and lifted her, placing her on his lap. She withdrew from him briefly so their eyes could meet, then her lips searched for his again and her body pressed against him until she felt her breasts against the solid wall of his chest. Darcy pulled away a few inches, unbuttoned his coat, and embraced Elizabeth even more forcefully.
“I want to feel you as close to me as I can,” he said hoarsely, only a moment before their lips joined once more.
“William,” she whispered breathlessly while his lips moved adoringly along her face. “Please unbutton my coat, too…”
For a moment, he was still, the assault of his daring kisses suspended; but, before she had time to register the movement of his skilful hands, she felt herself crushed against him again, and this time the thin fabric of her dress allowed his warmth to burn her skin. She felt his fingers caress her neck and back, and then travel along her ribs until they rested upon her hips. They returned to her arms and shoulders, followed the line of her throat, tantalized the neckline of her dress and, finally, slid inside. She sighed and moaned – a moan as powerful as a scream – and he hastily covered her mouth with another kiss.
His caresses soon became less passionate and more tender. His lips released hers and gently covered her face, eyes and temples with countless, delicate kisses. They were still tightly embraced, their bodies so close that each could hear the other’s heart beating.
“We should return to the house,” Darcy said, still kissing her temples.
“Yes,” she agreed, but neither of them moved.
“This night will pass soon as will the next two – and then I will be allowed to hold you as long as I want.” Her head cuddled on his shoulder – her hands encircling his waist – and for some time they remained, wrapped in blissful silence.
Then, to Elizabeth’s shock, Darcy began to laugh, and she raised her head, staring at him.
“William, what is the matter? You startled me…”
“I am sorry, my love…please forgive me… It is nothing. Let us return to the house.”
Without rising from his lap, she looked at him with reproach and mocking anger. “Surely you cannot be serious, sir – to burst out with such levity and then tell me it is nothing. You absolutely must tell me the reason for your amusement.”
“Elizabeth, I…I cannot… It is not a proper conversation to have with you.”
Her eyebrow rose in astonishment. “Not proper? Mr. Darcy, we are in the back garden of my own home, you are holding me on your lap and risking being caught any moment, and you are concerned about the propriety of a conversation? You have a strange sense of proper behavior, sir.”
He playfully placed another kiss on her hair. “Very well, but I warn you that you will be shocked, maybe even upset as it involves your sister.”
“My sister? Jane?” He nodded in agreement and her eyes opened in wonder. “What reason might you have to laugh at Jane?”
“No, not at Miss Jane…please forgive me… It is just that…well, last evening when I returned to Netherfield I found a note from Cassandra, telling me she wished to speak to me. I hurried to her room, assuming something important had happened…instead…”
“Yes? Come sir; do not trifle with me. Now I am truly uncomfortable with this conversation.”
“Well, I am too…and it was even worse last night when Cassandra asked me – no, she demanded me to tell her – how experienced Bingley was…” he chuckled as he said the last words and Elizabeth stared at him with incomprehension.
“Experienced? In what way?” she asked, and then her cheeks colored highly, and she rose from Darcy’s lap. “Ooooh,” she whispered, while she hurried to button her coat.
“Elizabeth, I am sorry if I offended you…”
“Please do not apologize, William. You did not offend me. It is just that…I am not accustomed to such a conversation, especially between a gentleman and a lady, even if they are close friends…”
“I am not accustomed either – trust me – and last night I was not at all inclined to laugh as I am now! It is true that Cassandra is like a sister to me, but this is not a discussion to have with a sister,” he replied seriously, and Elizabeth’s embarrassment was overcome by her amusement.
“I imagine…and may I dare ask how you replied to her?”
“I asked her exactly the same: that I was shocked she could ask such a question that can not possibly be answered. But…”
“But?”
“But she said if I would not answer she would ask Bingley directly!”
They had already started to walk toward the house, and Elizabeth burst out in peals of laughter so loud that she was certain they were heard from inside. “She would not dare!”
“I am afraid she would… Apparently Miss Jane is concerned about various aspects of her wedding – more than concerned, Cassandra said. Cassandra told me they had spent much time talking together, and she somehow managed to comfort Miss Jane and assure her she has absolutely no reason for concern, as she will be the perfect mistress for Netherfield and the perfect wife for Bingley. However, Cassandra wanted to be certain everything would be truly fine with Miss Jane in every aspect of her marriage – starting with the wedding night.”
“Now I see… Cassandra’s care for my sister is wonderful and praiseworthy.”
“Yes, it is. However…”
“And?”
“And what, Elizabeth?”
“Is he?”
“Is he what?” Darcy asked incredulously.
“Is Mr. Bingley experienced?”
“Elizabeth!”
“I am sorry…but if Cassandra is worried for my sister, how could I not be?”
“Miss Bennet,” Darcy replied soundly and decidedly, “I shall not discuss any details about my friend either with you or Cassandra!” He was so grave that Elizabeth covered her mouth with her palm, in order to keep from laughing out loud again.
“As you wish, sir…”
“And I will tell you exactly what I told Cassandra last evening: you may rest assured that Mr. Bingley will be a very affectionate and considerate husband for Miss Jane Bennet, and I am certain their marriage will be a very happy one – in every respect!”
“Thank you for assuring me, sir.”
“You are welcome…”
They took a few more steps together, and Elizabeth could not hold in her laughter any longer. “Cassandra is astonishing.”
“She is indeed… Perhaps too astonishing at times,” Darcy admitted.
“I understand she did not inquire about your own experience, did she?”
“Elizabeth!”
“I apologize… I was just curious.” She was apologizing but in fact, she was obviously amused and could hardly keep her countenance – and he did not fail to notice it.
“Perhaps she did not ask because she did not seem worried or concerned about you at all, Elizabeth… Perhaps it is because you did not appear to be frightened about any aspect of our future marriage,” Darcy replied lightly.
“Or perhaps, being around you for so long, she already knew about your past experiences…” Elizabeth added. She felt disconcerted saying it, but the words came out before she was able to control them. Suddenly shy, she averted her eyes from him.
As they had almost reached the main entrance, Darcy stopped and she was forced to do the same. “Elizabeth?”
“Yes?”
He leaned toward her so he could whisper in her ear. “I have never loved another woman before, nor have I known the true meaning of passion and desire before meeting you.”
She looked at him, mesmerized, and he lifted her hand to his lips. “As for our marriage, dearest Elizabeth, I heartily believe you are not frightened about its various facets, as we are to be the happiest couple in the world, in every way!”
“I know that… I have known it from the first moment we became engaged – and maybe even before,” Elizabeth replied.
At that moment, Mrs. Bennet chose to call everyone to the house and finally allow poor Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley to have some nourishment before they fainted from hunger.
***
Later that evening, after their guests retired, Mrs. Bennet entered Elizabeth’s chamber and closed the door behind her carefully.
“Mama! Is anything wrong?”
“Nothing is wrong, thank goodness.” Mrs. Bennet sat down, and Elizabeth gave her a puzzled look; Mrs. Bennet had never been fond of late night conversations.
“Mr. Darcy seemed not displeased at all…” Mrs. Bennet continued.
“No indeed,” replied Elizabeth, blushing slightly. “You should not be so worried about him, mama; he is a very kind man.”
“Well, he is handsome, I grant him that…and he seems to appreciate my dinners a great deal. He certainly appears to have a great affection for you, Lizzy. You have been very fortunate to find such a man, my child.”
“I know that, mama.”
“Lizzy…there is something I must speak to you about… I had no opportunity to do it until now, but we cannot delay it any longer.”
“What is it, mama?”
“We must talk about…you know…about your wedding night. A man like Mr. Darcy surely has some expectations and…” Mrs. Bennet’s color changed from pale to crimson, and Elizabeth’s cheeks were burning in mortification.
“Mama,” she interrupted her mother impetuously, “there is no need for that… I… Aunt Gardiner has already explained everything to me…”
“Has she? Oh, my sister Gardiner is so considerate… She explained all you need to know, I assume. Do you wish to ask me anything more?”
“No, nothing more…”
“I am glad, I am very glad indeed… “Mrs. Bennet said as she rose and poured a glass of water. “To tell you the truth, I am quite relieved, Lizzy. This is not an easy conversation for a mother to have with her daughters… I already spoke to Jane a couple of weeks ago and I have to confess neither of us felt comfortable with this subject. In fact, I do not think Jane understood properly what is expected of her, as she appeared deeply distressed while I tried to explain to her. Then again, I do not worry too much, as Mr. Bingley is not nearly as demanding or as important as Mr. Darcy, and he surely will be easier to please.”
“Mama… “
“Yes, Lizzy?”
“Is everything settled for the wedding breakfast? The Matlocks and some other guests will arrive tomorrow, you know. And Aunt and Uncle Gardiner, too.”
“Oh, of course everything is settled, girl! Surely you do not think you need to remind me of my duties for the wedding.”
“Not at all, mama. I was just wondering…”
“Oh, you must not worry about that…you would be better off thinking about how you will have to improve your entire wardrobe for the next Season. I am sure the entire Town will watch with the greatest interest, and you must be worthy of your husband’s name and position!”
“Yes mama…”
“Well, well…it is good to see that at least you have become a little more obedient lately. This is a good thing, a very good thing.”
“Should we not go to sleep now, mama?”
“Yes, we should, this very instant. You must rest, to look your best tomorrow. I shall leave you now – go to sleep, Lizzy.”
“I will, mama,” Elizabeth replied while she embraced her mother dearly. Good night.”
A few minutes after the door to Mrs. Bennet’s chamber closed, Elizabeth slowly exited her room and entered Jane’s. “Jane, wake up please,” she called to a half asleep Miss Bennet who startled in shock
“Lizzy dearest, what is the matter? Is anything wrong?”
“Yes it is, dearest. We must talk about a matter of great urgency.”
“Now? What is it about, Lizzy?”
“Now! It is about our weddings.”
***
Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam were the only ones left in the Netherfield library. Darcy had retired a little earlier, and the Colonel would have done the same but – to his utter surprise – Bingley had required a private conversation with him, and the Colonel accepted – puzzled and curious. However, a quarter of an hour passed and Bingley seemed more inclined to enjoy his brandy than to speak about the reason for his distress.
“Bingley, stop pacing the room. You are making me dizzy!”
“I am sorry, Colonel.”
“Don’t be sorry. Sit down, for heaven’s sake, and tell me what is happening to you. You are acting strangely, man!”
Bingley stared at him a moment, then looked toward the fireplace and poured himself another glass of brandy.
“I don’t know what to do…”
“To do about what, Bingley?”
“I need your advice, Colonel.”
“About life in general or about a particular matter?’
“Please, Colonel, I do not need your mocking tone right now.”
“Forgive me, my friend, but you are quite amusing. What the hell is happening to you, man? You are to be married in three days – you should be the happiest man in the world.”
“I am! And this is precisely the matter which troubles me! This is the problem!”
“This? This as in…what?”
“The wedding, man! The wedding night – don’t you understand?”
“Huh?” asked the Colonel in the most ungentlemanlike manner. “Your wedding night is your problem? You mean you are not…you do not know? You never before – ?”
“Oh, hush, Colonel! Of course I have and I know – do not be ridiculous.”
“Oh, good…” The Colonel managed to reply, obviously relieved, and hurried to fill his glass once more. “Then what is bothering you?” he inquired, certain that their conversation could not get any worse.
“The problem is that it is not the same thing! It cannot be the same thing… Jane is so different, so wonderful, and so proper in everything she does… I could not possibly…you know…”
“Now I am completely lost,” the Colonel admitted. “Just ask away if you have any question, man. Do not torture me any longer.”
“What should I do?” Bingley finally burst out. “I have never been in love with a woman to whom…you know… How could I do that without frightening Jane? She already seems so restrained every time we are alone… I love her so much and I desire her so much that sometimes I am afraid I would not be able to control myself… There are moments when I just want to…you know…I feel I will lose my mind! You must know that, Colonel! You have already been with the woman you love…”
Bingley looked more distressed than ever before, and his last words succeeded in shocking the Colonel equally.
“Bingley, you are killing me, man!”
“I am sorry, I did not mean to be disrespectful, I only…”
“Don’t worry about being disrespectful – that is my last worry… So Bingley…let us sit down and talk calmly.”
“As you say,” Bingley obeyed.
“Bingley, you must know this is the strangest conversation I have ever had.”
“I imagine so… I cannot apologize enough for placing you in this uncomfortable situation, but I thought you were the only one who could understand me and could provide me with sound advice. I know how strong your affection is for Lady Cassandra and…”
“Bingley, I really do not know how I could counsel you. I mean – I do not understand the reason for your distress, to be honest. I never thought of this before… Oh God, I need another drink,” the Colonel concluded.
“I can easily see why you do not understand and why you never worried about this. You are a man of the world who always knows what he has to do in any circumstance. But I am a complete idiot who will surely disappoint the woman I love because I am unable to behave properly – it is as simple as that.”
“Come now, Bingley – there are too many words and we have had too many glasses of brandy. Let us keep this matter as simple as possible. You are not an idiot – you are only preoccupied with this damned wedding. It will pass soon enough. As for your concern – let me assure you everything will be well. There is nothing to fear. You said it could not be the same as with any other woman; I will tell you: it is the same but completely different. It is more – much more. Have you not held Miss Bennet’s hand? Have you not kissed her?”
“I…”
“No, no, don’t answer me! Just think of that: I am certain you have experienced all these before with other women and you surely noticed the holding of the hand or the kissing were the same.”
“No, they were not…”
“Surely they were, Bingley. What is kissing but the touch of two mouths, right? Yet, it is much more than that, especially with the woman you love, would you not agree?”
Bingley stared at him with his eyes wide opened. “Damn, you are such a clever man, Colonel. You said so little yet I finally understand everything.”
“I am not clever, Bingley. You are too generous. It must be the result of those five glasses of brandy you just drank.”
Bingley suddenly started to laugh so loudly that the Colonel startled.
“You should go to bed, Bingley.”
“Yes, I should,” he admitted, without moving. “You may consider me a complete fool, Colonel, but I am worried… I cannot help wondering… I hope she will be happy with me – that she will enjoy our marriage…including…you know… I want everything to be perfect for her. But I already disappointed her last autumn. What if I disappoint her again? I failed so miserably to understand her feelings last year… Will I be able to recognize if she truly enjoys being with me or will she only tolerate me because it is her duty to do so?”
“Bingley, from what I have seen, I doubt very much that Miss Bennet is tolerating you. Indeed, she is a very proper young lady – so no wonder she is restrained. But from what I saw, she seems to enjoy your company quite a lot.”
“She does, does she not? I confess there were times when I felt that she would allow me to…”
“Bingley – let us stop this confession before the brandy makes you say some things you will come to regret tomorrow. You must have faith in yourself, man. The mere fact that you are so concerned for Miss Bennet proves your worthiness and the depth of your affection for her. You want advice for your wedding night? Here it is: show her your affection and your care; be patient and considerate, and do not forget you said you want everything to be perfect for her.”
“She is an angel,” Bingley said dreamily, and the Colonel patted him on his shoulder.
“Then, here is further advice – stop thinking about Miss Bennet as an angel; she is an exceptionally beautiful lady, but she is still a woman, not an angel, and I dare say this is very fortunate. Angels are not to be touched, and you surely would like to touch your wife. An angel is something for your fantasies. A real, beautiful woman who shares your affection and becomes your wife – this is something to experience every day for many, many years.”
Bingley was staring at his companion wordlessly, dizzy from fatigue and the effects of brandy, yet his mind was working frantically, considering everything he heard.
“You are a very clever man, Colonel,” he repeated.
“I know, I know – sometimes I astonish myself with my own cleverness, Bingley. Now let me take you to your room – and for God’s sake, do not drink on your wedding night, or you will not be able to perform as well as you would wish.”
Bingley rose from the chair, stepping toward the door but the last words turned him back to the Colonel. “Thank you for telling me this, Colonel! Now I will have another reason to worry! How very considerate of you!”
Colonel Fitzwilliam was certain everybody in the house was awakened but he could not control the burst of laughter any longer. Certainly that was the most diverting conversation he had had in quite a long time. Poor Bingley!
***
Happy for all her maternal feelings was the day on which Mrs. Bennet got rid of her two most deserving daughters. It may be guessed with what delighted pride she watched her daughters standing up in church next to their wealthy husbands, surrounded by illustrious guests and all twenty-four families from Meryton. Even Lady Cassandra – though not fully recovered – was present with Colonel Fitzwilliam – what a handsome, amiable man! He took the trouble to carry her ladyship in his arms from the carriage into the church, in order not to miss the grandiose event.
And the wedding breakfast was everything Mrs. Bennet had hoped for – and more. Lady Matlock herself praised the elegant arrangements and the choice of the dishes – and Lady Cassandra insisted she had not enjoyed herself so much in years.
Mrs. Bennet was truly, deeply, utterly happy – and she did not worry about her nerves a single moment.
In a corner of the Netherfield ballroom, the newly wed couples were speaking privately to each other.
“I shall miss you, Lizzy; I shall write you every day,” said a tearful Jane.
Elizabeth embraced her dearly, whispering to her. “I surely hope you will not have time to miss me or to write me at all, dearest Jane.”
The new Mrs. Bingley blushed and smiled shyly but very becomingly. “I shall miss you, dearest Lizzy.”
“I shall miss you, too,” Elizabeth replied, and the two sisters held hands in silence, both fighting back tears. “But it is less than two months until we meet again at Pemberley for Christmas. Take care of yourself and your husband until then.”
“I will do my best, Lizzy,” Jane whispered while she cast a quick glance at her husband, who was engaged in a close conversation with Mr. Darcy.
“You surely do not have to leave so soon, Darcy; you are more than welcome to stay here…for tonight, I mean. Both Jane and I are delighted to have you and all our families as guests…”
“Bingley! You have finally married the woman you have loved for so long. I truly hope you will find delight in no one else’s presence except that of your wife and will not welcome any guests into your home for at least a month! Stop being so kind and polite – it is time for you to be selfish.”
Bingley smiled uncomfortably, and then he looked at his wife and met her timid glance. “I cannot send people away,” he replied with a low voice.
“Now you cannot,” admitted Darcy, patting his shoulder sympathetically. “Fortunately they will leave – eventually. My uncle and aunt, together with Cassandra, Georgiana and David will depart for London shortly, so they will not give you much trouble.”
“Trust me, Darcy; they never gave me any trouble.”
“Yes, I believe that. Your troubles lay elsewhere,” Darcy said, with a meaningful glance toward the Hursts and the Bennets. “My advice would be to ask for Mr. Bennet’s help in this matter.”
“I will – I certainly will. And you know, Caroline is determined to leave for a long tour around the country; and Louisa said they will return to London…”
“Yes, I have heard that. And Bingley – let me repeat what I told you last night: as you so generously hosted us at Netherfield for all this time, you will always be welcome at Pemberley.”
“We shall come for Christmas.”
“You may come sooner if you want, my friend. I can offer you and Mrs. Bingley the entire east wing, and I promise you – nobody will disturb you there.”
“I shall take your offer into consideration, Darcy.”
An hour later, after all the guests said their goodbyes to the Darcys, he handed his wife into the carriage and then closed and locked its door. Mr. Bennet had promised his favorite daughter a visit as soon as possible, and Mrs. Bennet repeated a hundred times how eager she was to visit Mrs. Darcy on her new estate.
Inside the carriage, Elizabeth forced herself to smile while fighting the overwhelming emotion of departing Netherfield, their friends and families. As her trembling hands pressed together and her shimmering eyes locked on her husband’s, Elizabeth managed a barely audible whisper. “Finally we come to the end of this.”
“No indeed, my love; it is not the end but the very beginning. I am taking you home, Mrs. Darcy!”