The only illumination was the trickle of light from a small gap in the drapes. The rays ran across the room, up the bed and across Darcy's face. His eyes were open and he was staring at the sunlight along the floor. He had not noticed that he was no longer alone. He had been quite worried as Lizzy had not been there when he woke up; she had always been there. As she walked towards him, he heard her and looked up at her slowly. A small, ironic smile appeared on his lips as she said hello with her eyes.

"It was light like this that woke me up the morning of the accident. The day seemed so full of hope. I knew that I would see you and tell you how much I loved you. Nothing ever goes according to plan, does it?"

His smile was brief as he looked away to once again stare out of the window. The light cast an eerie glow over his features and bounced off the healing gash on his brow. His expression was sombre as he thought back to the day he set off to Longbourn in search of the woman he loved.

As he looked towards the sunlight traversing the wooden floorboards of the room, he could feel her looking at him expectantly. He knew he had been hurting her every minute of the day since Georgiana left willingly with his Aunt Catherine three days ago. That very fact chilled him to the bone; he had never meant to hurt her in anyway possible. When he set out from his London townhouse that morning, his mission had been quite the opposite. As she sat in the chair beside the bed and took out her book as she usually did these days, he decided to tell her everything he felt.

"I have never quite felt so helpless before, Elizabeth . I cannot do anything and yet everything is going so tragically wrong. I could never have foretold this all happening; that I would fall on the way here, that Miss Bingley would be so treacherous, that Georgiana would walk away with my aunt. That morning was so full of hope and the sunlight awoke me in such a pleasant manner. I was filled with such a feeling of joy that nothing could possibly have gone wrong. I had slept well for the first night in months because I knew there was a chance of your returning my feelings.

"The day decided to go wrong as soon as I set foot at the bottom of the stairs. Georgiana was there and looking so furiously at me. I knew there was something wrong with what my aunt has told her but thought nothing of it; that was until she attacked me about what I was to embark on. I told her that I was riding up here to see you, that I loved you and held hope that one day you would consent to make me the happiest of men. Of that she was displeased. She hated the fact that I was to marry beneath myself, as Lady Catherine had so delicately put it. That I was going to ruin her chances of making a good match. Georgiana has ceased to believe in love matches after everything Wickham had put her through. Our aunt has also poisoned her mind about marriage, just because she was miserable in hers. My sister expected me to make the right decision and cease in my quest to earn your hand. I would never stop until I found you. I have spent so long trying. The one woman I know I could love and you hated me, or you did once."

Darcy looked towards Lizzy who was staring at him intently, listening closely to what he was telling her, her book having been abandoned as soon as he began his tragic story. He had never before spoken of his feelings to anybody and she was honoured to find he was telling her all this. Thinking that he may have forgiven everything she had caused, she took his hand but he wrenched it away once again. The tears began to well in her eyes but she blinked them away. She hated feeling weak in front of him. He would be alright one day and she would wait for him. Everything had just come as a shock for him all at once. No wonder he was confused.

"I never hated you. Disliked maybe, but never hate." She had to look away; the tears were threatening to spill as she remembered the confession she had made to herself that fateful night.

"Dislike, hate. It all came to the same conclusion, did it now? I am still here with everything I have known falling down about my ears." His voice was soft and gentle. Unnerving in a way to Lizzy; he would not let her in yet he was telling her everything he felt.

"I tried to talk Georgiana round to my way of thinking by telling her that you would be perfect for both of us. You bring so much laughter and joy wherever you are. The night you were at Pemberley, the house seemed more alive than it had in a long time. My mother was the life in that house and then they died together. The day Lady Anne Darcy passed from this earth was the day my father, myself and Pemberley stopped living. I did not live, I existed. I hated Georgiana. She was the very reason my mother had died, taking her life from her every minute during the birth. I sat there in the room all four days after my baby sister was born, watching mother for any sign of improvement. She lay so still, so quiet. I held her hand and stroked her face and begged her to come back but she would not listen. The life had gone from her eyes, the laughter and smiles died on her lips, her skin became ashen and grey. On the fourth day, she took her last faltering breath and left me alone. I walked from the room and sat at the top of the staircase. It hurt too much to cry. It was as if a big hole had been ripped inside me. Something was missing from the second she gave up."

The tears were coursing freely down Lizzy's face as she heard his story. Never had she imagined such pain. She could feel the emotions inside him yet he refused to let them out. He stared blankly at the window all the time. She watched him close his eyes for a few seconds as he swallowed back all the pent-up pain and anger. Taking a deep breath, he prepared to continue his recollections.

"It was weeks before I could look at my sister. My father had taken her in his arms the moment my mother had died and saw his life reflected in her eyes. I was forgotten, left to wallow in my sorrow and self pity. I had no one to turn to anymore. The only person to love me and talk to me was my mother and she was gone. Pemberley had never seemed so empty. My uncle, Lord Matlock, came with my aunt and cousin Richard to the funeral. Lady Sophia, my aunt, was not allowed to attend the burial of her sister-in-law. They had been very close, could almost have been real sisters, in fact. They were closer than my mother and Lady Catherine had ever been. I did not want to go to see my mother. She would never see the sunrise and set each day. She would never see her daughter grow up and teach her all the right things in life. I could not see my mother in a box and remember her in that image forever. The one I had was far worse. Aunt Sophia sat with me in the library all afternoon. Sometimes she cried; most of the time she sat there and looked at me. She told me that my mother was in my eyes looking out at the world. I did not believe her until she told me my eyes had changed. She said they became deeper, as if two souls were watching time pass by. It was that moment when I made up my mind. My mother had never left me. She was always by my side. She led me to you."

Lizzy stared into his deep brown eyes as he finished in a near whisper. So much had passed between them and now, everything was working to keep them apart. It was as if the world was testing their ability to persevere and stay together throughout everything. The bond they shared was incredibly strong. Each could feel it run through them as they looked at each other.

"Georgiana was a different matter altogether. She had all my father's time and energy. He devoted his life into making her happy and just left me to find my own way. I was envious of both Wickham and my sister. He cared far more about them, even though I was the heir apparent. I would try to learn new things to gain his attention but it was all for naught. He barely looked at me. In the end I became more quiet and reserved. I did not care for social events or meeting new people. That was until I could escape to Cambridge , and what an escape it was. By the time I was to depart, my father and I hardly spoke a word and each time we met, he ignored me. It was Lady Sophia and Richard that helped me through the rest of my childhood and school. They told me that my father could see too much of my mother in me and hated to be reminded of her. Yet, he could not get enough of Georgiana.

"So off to Cambridge I went. I was miserable for the first couple of years. All the women I met in the city were after me for my money and devoted many hours to flattering my bank account. I spent very little time with other people. Staying inside and studying or reading was the best option. During the breaks, I went to Matlock to stay with my cousin. We became brothers almost, closer than we had ever been allowed to come before. It was in my second year that I met Bingley.

He saved me from myself by becoming my best friend. He is so different to me. He liked to go out and meet everyone and he dragged me along with him. He was in his first year and was eager to talk to all sorts of new acquaintances. By the time I left Cambridge , we were the very greatest of friends, and I had stopped him from falling for the wrong girl many times. That was why I became suspicious of your sister. How wrong I had been. When he started his third and final year, Richard and I left to tour Europe . We were gone about a year and visited lots of new countries and people. It was a happy time. Nothing ever lasts forever, though."

He looked at her and took her hand in his. He knew what he wanted to do but he could not make that decision. He needed to make sure his sister was happy before he could secure his own contentment. Always putting his sister before everything, she had the most inopportune times to make her preferences known. He was beginning to lose his patience where Georgiana was concerned.

Squeezing Lizzy's hand lightly, he pulled her gently so that she would sit by him on the bed. He needed to be close to her, to let her know silently that everything would work out. As she took the tiny hint and sat up against him, he kissed the back of her hand. She relaxed and lay her head on his shoulder. Kissing her forehead, he continued.

"When we returned from the continent, I learnt my father was very ill. I knew I had to return home, but since my mother had died, Pemberley never felt much like a home. So I went back. So much had changed. The gardens had been left to ruin. My mother had spent so long tending to them. After she passed away I tried to get the gardeners to look after them but after I left, nothing seemed to get done. The house felt even emptier as I stepped inside. There was no one to be seen anywhere. I knew my father had let most of the staff go but I never could have guessed how many.

Georgiana was looking after him and both were unimpressed to see me. In their opinion I was there as a mere formality. Just because I was to inherit Pemberley and all its land on the moment of my father's death. Father was too ill to run the estate anymore and had been for quite a long time. I had a lot of work to do to even get close to restoring it to the way it used to be. I started immediately and unofficially took over. Georgiana was ten and did not know me very well. I was the elder brother she had never wanted to see because her beloved father did not like me. She used to sit in the study while I was working and stare at me long and hard. I never knew why until one day after my father's death, she told me. Having been told that I was much like my mother in personality and soul, she wanted to see what Lady Anne was like.

We got to talking about her and grew very close. I was the one she ran to when everything went wrong. I was so much older and took over role as her father in a way. So there it was. At two and twenty, I was an orphan, had a large estate to run and a ten year old sister to take care of. A massive weight on my shoulders that I have had for such a long time now.

"So, George and I became a lot closer. She was so sad when our father died when it did not really feel any different to me. I had to try and cheer her spirits. I tried everything, took her to London , took her all around the country. There was just one place where she was remotely happy and that was with Lady Catherine. Strange, really, that after all this time, she still prefers to be there. How ironic, almost laughable, how history repeats itself. So I kept taking her to Kent .

Richard was there almost every time. He enjoyed being there to see Georgiana as he was her guardian as well. Something to be happy about, the responsibility was to be shared. This arrangement carried on until I made her go to London to continue her education. She was wonderful at the fortepiano and became very proficient when taught by a London master. I would have given her anything. I'm afraid I fell under the spell of my sister as my father had. Her happiness was everything to me. When the matter with Wickham occurred, she was upset because she thought she had let me down. I had never been angry with her about it. I just wanted to make sure she was safe. She said she wanted to go and see Lady Catherine again like she used to, so she went. I left for Hertfordshire shortly after and that is where I met you. So, that is my life so far.

Now, when I thought it could not have gotten much worse, this happens. My sister has decided she would like to dictate my life and make my decisions so hard. I barely know what to do anymore. Things seemed so much simpler and clearer when I set off that morning."

Lizzy looked up at him and saw the distance in his eyes return. His whole body tensed as she took his hand and held it tightly. He seemed so uncomfortable now, with her lying against him. The present moments had brought him back to his current predicament; one he was willing to forget but could not. She sat up beside him once again. She knew this would be hard for him. She was only making it worse by making her feelings more known to him. Should she stop and hope for the best? Make sure that he did not change his mind by making herself hard to ignore? This was going to be tenuous for both of them.

Darcy was trapped in his own mind at the moment. So many things had happened in the past few days, it was going to take some time for them to become clear once again. As the woman he knew he loved lay against him, his thoughts came flooding back to the moment Georgiana walked out from the room with their Aunt Catherine. He knew full well that his withdrawal from Lizzy would hurt her but he had to take this step back from reality. He needed to see from a distance so that the choice he was making would be the right one. He felt so badly the sense of disappointment he was sure she would be feeling. He knew that she loved him, she had told him so, and this decision would be painful whichever way it was to be made. Letting go of her hand and gently placing it on the bed, he closed his eyes and began to think about everything. He could feel Lizzy rise from the bed. He could tell she was looking at him for a few minutes before she left the room, abandoning him to his own thoughts, a most dangerous place to be.

Some days later saw Lizzy sitting in the morning parlour working on some embroidery she had been meaning to finish for some time now. It had been started the day before Darcy had arrived at Longbourn ill, and now, two weeks on, she intended to have it completed. The warm weather continued well into the autumn season. The leaves on the tress were turning orange and brown and slowly dropping from the branches to form mounds of coloured debris. The days grew shorter and the nights longer as the year progressed; each hour of precious sunlight was delightful.

The embroidery project was merely a sampler Lizzy was making for Jane and Bingley's wedding. She was so happy for Jane. She too wanted that special happiness that can only come from being engaged to the man you love. A few days ago, everything seemed to be heading that way for Lizzy. But that had all changed. When Georgiana had arrived a week ago to see her brother and delivered the ultimatum, Lizzy's future happiness had been called into question.

Each stitch she made in the fine linen that was to be transformed took her further away from her problems. The harder she concentrated, the more she could forget the past days and remember the times when William was sure of his feelings. The thought that he might just leave her for the strength of his familial bonds was weighing heavily on her mind. Each moment was a struggle to recognise the love they felt and the knowledge that he would make the right decision. He would, and whatever he might say she would accept. When he had related his life to her, she was shocked and upset for him. She wanted to take away some of he pain he was feeling. Give him some of the happiness he deserved. Maybe she would never have the chance.

The needle slipped as she was caught in thought. Its sharp point stabbed her finger and she winced slightly as the minute pain invaded her solitary reverie. Then she was rudely awakened to the harsh reality of her situation. If he made the choice of repairing his family and getting Georgiana back on her terms Lizzy knew she would never would be able to love again. It was either Darcy, or nobody. That was what made her sad. Her life would be pointless and over because of Georgiana Darcy. Her heart belonged to the ill man upstairs, whether he chose to accept it or not.

Standing, she laid the embroidery on the side table and walked to the window. The slight breeze rustled the remaining leaves on the trees and blew whirlwinds with the already fallen ones. As she looked towards the end of the road to Longbourn, she noticed a horse and rider rapidly approaching the house. Not recognising who it was, she walked from the room to make ready to welcome the guest.

Hill, the housekeeper, was already on her way to open the great doors to accept the rider. Not thinking it was an express, Lizzy just waited patiently to see who would be riding up the drive so quickly. She wasn't wondering for very long. As soon as the doors had been opened, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam was admitted.

As he walked through the door, Lizzy felt a strange sense of foreboding and knew immediately that she had to leave the room. When the Colonel looked at her and smiled weakly, she turned around. She could not bear to look at any member of Darcy's family after all that had happened. How many more would turn their back on him to spite her? This was a constant source of worry.

"Miss Bennet. How lovely it is to see you..."

As he walked towards her she began to back away. Before he could finish his sentence, she was almost at the door. He could not stop her as she opened the door and fled up the stairs. He had not a clue about what had just occurred. He did not have long however to ponder the mystery of Miss Bennet's sudden disappearance. Almost as soon as Elizabeth left, Kitty entered the room to see who the visitor was. From what she had seen from the hermitage, he looked rather dashing astride his horse.

When she entered the room, he was turned away from her. She could see his broad shoulders and of course, what she always liked to see, his regimentals. His uniform looked fancier than any of the others she had seen and automatically she wondered what regiment he was from. He did not even notice she had entered the room and so she coughed a little to gain his attention. As he turned round to face her, their eyes locked. He was very handsome indeed, far nicer than Wickham. He looked far better in his uniform than any other man she had seen. It took her a few seconds to gather her wits and enquire who this wonderful man was.

"Welcome to Longbourn, sir. I'm Kitty Bennet." He walked towards her and kissed her hand.

"Pleased to meet you, Miss Bennet. I am Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, Mr Darcy's cousin. I have come to inquire after his health. I recently received a letter telling me that he was being taken care of by your sister, Miss Elizabeth."

"Yes, he is upstairs. I am surprised Lizzy isn't here to show you where he is herself. She will probably be up there talking to Mr Darcy. Would you like to see your cousin?" He nodded and they walked from the room together.

Kitty's mind was instantly filled with questions about the man following close behind her. He did not look anything like his cousin and nor did they share any mannerisms. Colonel Fitzwilliam was kind and amiable whereas Mr Darcy was boring and miserable, in her opinion anyway. How could the two men be so different and yet so closely related? Perhaps, on closer acquaintance she would find him to be more like his cousin and lose interest in him. But it was the way their eyes locked. It was as if she could see deep into his soul and he into hers. This was almost the love at first sight she had read of in her favourite novels.

Her reverie was short lived as they arrived to the door behind which lay Mr Darcy. He smiled at her as he prepared to see his cousin in a very rare sight; Darcy was almost never ill and if he was, never one to get bed rest. Fight it off was what he always did. From the sound of the missive he received, this was the kind of injury that had to take its time and required an abundance of patience, two things he knew Darcy would hate.

She turned the handle and opened the door for him to enter. To Kitty's surprise, Lizzy was no where to be seen. She did notice however that the patient in the bed was looking increasing more wretched every day. Something had happened between him and her sister. He would have been better off breaking his neck than hurting Lizzy.

Now that Lydia had gone, Kitty was free to admit that Lizzy had always been the one she looked up to. She wanted to be as alive and carefree as her elder sister. If Darcy was hurting her, he would have to survive the wrath of Kitty and Mr Bennet.

As Fitzwilliam walked towards his cousin's bed, she could see that the whole ordeal had really taken its toll. He was virtually unrecognisable. The stress was etched across his face and his eyes had turned stone cold. It wasn't until he had edged closer to the bed that Darcy noticed he was there. So deep in thought he was about everything that had taken place over the past few days. Darcy was very glad to see his cousin again, though. As soon as his gaze rested upon Fitzwilliam, he smiled and some of the original life entered his lifeless eyes.

"Richard, what are you doing here?" He pulled his body into a sitting position, thankful for the strength in his arms. He could not yet move his leg as he was under strict doctor's orders. Any disturbance could put him back weeks and that was something he most seriously did not want.

"How could I not come to see my little cousin when he has fallen off his horse? I think I sat with you the first time you fell off that damned stallion of yours." He grinned at Darcy and took the seat by the side of the bed. Fitzwilliam turned at smiled at Kitty. She returned the favour and left the room, leaving the two cousins to catch up.

"Yes, I believe you did. It was partly your fault, though. You dared me to jump that tree knowing full well that I could not make it." Darcy scowled at the memory but broke into a short laugh. His attempt at mock displeasure failed.

"You were twelve, I thought you should have known better. I did not understand your reasons for trying as I do now. Having said all that, I did not help you to break your leg this time. What happened? Tell me all the gory details."

"I was riding up from London to see Miss Elizabeth Bennet and it began to rain."

"Hold on, here. Tell me that you stopped once the rain began? If not, I shall think you out of your mind. We both know how dangerous that is on road and on path." Fitzwilliam looked at Darcy as if he were about to carry on with his rebuke but Darcy cut him off.

"What can I say? I needed to get here. I do not know what happened. I suppose I just neglected to think. It was foolish of me and I know that now."

"Only a man in love would make such a brash decision. Miss Elizabeth Bennet must be more special than even I found and I think I could also have fallen in love with her." Darcy shot Fitzwilliam a dangerous look, instinctively guarding what was his. "I think I have just hit the proverbial nail on the head, have I not?" Darcy looked towards the window. He had just given Fitzwilliam the answer he required.

"Why do you look so glum, then? She is looking after you and according to her younger sister, she talks to you a great deal. Something has happened and do not try to hide it. When I arrived, Miss Elizabeth was the first person I saw and she ran from the room before I could say hello. Then I walk in here and you looked so grave. Tell me, cousin." Darcy looked back towards Fitzwilliam and took a deep breath.

"You are right, I do love Elizabeth and she has told me she feels the same way. I was delirious for the first couple of days and she told me so much and I could remember it all. Everything seemed to be going so well. Georgiana arrived a few days ago and I thought it was all working out. I would ask Elizabeth to marry me and we would be happy. Then it all collapsed around us.

Lady Catherine arrived the day after Georgiana. She tried to take me away to London and called Elizabeth things I shall never repeat. She said that she would take my sister away from me if I did not give Lizzy up. I told her she could not as we were Georgiana's guardians. She did not have to take her, though." Darcy looked away, anger beginning to show itself.

"What do you mean? Why did she not have to take her?" There was an edge of disappointment and sadness in his voice.

"Just before our aunt arrived, Georgiana told me that she did not want me to be married. That life as it was suited her and thought it should suit me as well. Lady Catherine had poisoned her mind with good matches and neglected to let her know that there was more to marriage than money. I used to think that way myself but when I met Elizabeth , she makes me so happy. She loves me for who I am, not my bank balance or the amount of land I own. Unfortunately, Georgiana's mind was made up on the subject.

That was when Lady Catherine walked in. I said that she did not have to take Georgiana because my little sister went willingly. The hardest decision of my whole life is before me. I either marry Elizabeth and be happy for the rest of life but have no sister or...or..." he could barely bring himself to speak the horrible alternative. "...I could take Georgiana back and walk away from the only woman I shall ever love. Then my sister will marry and leave me and I shall have no one. How am I to decide over the two most important people in my life?"

"I cannot believe she would such a thing. How terrible. How are you to make your decision? I know, I could go and talk to her, bring her to reason. Does she not realise that she responds to us? We can make her come back..."

"No, she will only grow to resent me and that would be just as bad as losing her this way. Nothing can be done. She has made up her mind and has left me to make mine. Whichever way, all three of us will be hurting and I hate it so much. *God damn it!*" He thumped his hands down on the bed beside him and closed his eyes, trying to keep his anger in check.

"It cannot be too late, if I just try to talk to her. Maybe she will come to understand. She cannot expect you to look after her every wish now. She needs to know that at eight and twenty, you are wanting more than just the welfare of your sister. You should have been married years ago, Darcy, do not let her spoil your chances of making such a rare love match. Pray, do not lose hope yet. Please, let me travel to Kent and talk to her." His eyes pleaded with Darcy, this was serious. He did not want to see his cousin or Miss Bennet hurt.

Darcy collected himself and nodded to Fitzwilliam. "One last chance is all she has. If she can be selfish, then I can to. I will not take her back once she has made her final decision and it is not to my liking. She will stay with her aunt, forever. I will not speak to her. Tell her this, tell her I need to be happy. I have devoted my life to her even after she looked at me disdainfully for so many years. I do not forget." He turned to face the window once more, his mind turning the Lizzy. What had made her run from the room? He was worried about her. His behaviour was to be abhorred. He would make everything all right again; he would just wait to see how this one last chance would turn out.

"I shall return as soon as possible. In the meantime, you need to talk to your Elizabeth . She cannot take this any more. Do the right thing, make her happy whatever the decision." Fitzwilliam stood and patted his cousin on the shoulder.

When he had arrived, nothing could have told him the torture Darcy was going through. Society was against him and so was his sister. He left the room without a last look. He knew Darcy was lost in his own thoughts once again and hoped that soon he would see him happy again.

He walked down the steps and past the sitting room in which he espied Kitty Bennet. She looked towards him at that moment and walked in his direction. Fitzwilliam did not know what caused him to move towards her as well. It was as if he was being pulled by an invisible string. They met in the middle of the room and just looked at each other. It was Kitty who first broke the silence.

"Are you to leave so soon?" The disappointment was in her voice and in her eyes. He wanted nothing less than to leave her; a strange thought, seeing as he had barely met her half and hour ago.

"I am afraid I must. I have urgent business that calls me away. I should be back in a couple of days though. I think once I return, I would very much like to get to know you better." His mind reeled at the words that had just poured forth from his mouth. He could not believe he had said it. There was a connection between them that he could sense in that first look into her eyes. Yet, she was so young. What was he to do? At his words she blushed lightly and smiled up at him. That was it. In her eyes she had traces of the life Elizabeth possessed. That zeal for living was in Kitty and that was what he wanted.

"I would like that very much, sir. Please accept my wishes for a safe trip. I must find my sister. Pray, excuse me."

They walked from the room together but she walked by his side to the front door. He looked down at her and smiled. She wanted to be with him just as much as he her. When they stepped outside and his horse was brought round, he kissed her hand gently. He mounted his horse and shot her one parting look before riding off to sort out his errant cousin.

It was two days after Fitzwilliam had left Darcy. Two days of seeing Lizzy appear at the doorway and watch her walk over towards the window; taking up the pose more usual for Darcy to assume. He could see the distance in her fine eyes as she looked out towards the garden. It pained him to see her so. All he wanted to do was reach out and hold her, tell her everything would be fine, that he loved her. He could not though.

The words Fitzwilliam had said played heavily on his mind. 'Make her happy, whatever the decision.' Oh how he longed to. His only wish was her happiness yet his position as Georgiana's guardian held so many responsibilities. She had been forced upon him, stopped him from having the life so many men his age had. Even being teased by Lizzy filled him with a joy he had not experienced since his mother's death. He had to talk to her. Today would be the day.

"Lizzy?" She barely turned towards him. The situation was becoming worse. "Lizzy? Will you not talk to me?" His voice was gentle and slowly she walked towards the bed to take a seat on the edge of the mattress.

"Richard told me that you ran from the room when he arrived. Why?" His voice was so full of concern for her. She smiled weakly at him.

"Oh, it was nothing. Just another member of your family that could have..." She could not finish and so just looked at her hands folded in her lap.

"I would ask what is wrong but I fear I know the answer. This was not how it was meant to be."

"I know. It is just getting so hard for me to be around you when I know which you will choose. I would not ask you give up your sister but you are so distant lately. I wonder what you are thinking and then I look into your eyes which once spoke so much love for me, and they are so cold. I dare not ask for fear of what I might hear." She looked away to conceal the tears threatening to spill over.

Darcy felt sure his heart was breaking. He cupped her cheek with his hand and turned her to him. He hated what he saw deep in her eyes, pain and confusion. He knew from that second on that whatever his sister decided, he would not look at Georgiana again. This is what she had caused and he hated her for it. He clenched his jaw and swallowed hard. He had to tell her now. No more suffering for either of them. Georgiana's little trick had shewed him her real character and it repulsed him. The little girl who hated him because her father did...the boy who had lost all his family in one day and been left alone had had enough.

"I feel so bad. I have been so confused yet the answer has been there all along. I have come to realise, that there is only one thing that I need in my life. And that's you."

She looked deep into his eyes and saw the love she needed. A smile erupted onto her face as she flung her arms about his neck. He put his arms around her middle and crushed her into a fierce hug.

"God, I've missed you, Lizzy. I love you so much. Nothing is going to become between us again. Not Lady Catherine, not Miss Bingley and certainly never Georgiana. I need you so much it hurts. How could I have even contemplated an existence without you?" Sheer relief permeated their bodies as they held each other close.

"Oh William, I have missed you too. I thought I would never get you back." She hugged him tighter and then kissed him full on the mouth.

As soon as their lips made contact, the connection between them ran straight through their bodies. Every nerve was awakened by the sensations. Their kiss became deeper as he ran his tongue over her lips. Her lips parted slightly to let him invade her mouth and this he did. They both knew this was getting out of hand and so reluctantly, he pulled from the kiss. Resting his head against her forehead, they caught their breath.

"Never let anything separate us again. We are going to be together no matter what. Forever." He placed his hands on her arms and pulled her back slightly so that they could look at each other. Taking one of her delicate hands in his, he looked deep into her eyes.

"Elizabeth Bennet, will you marry me?" The joy that permeated her every expression made his heart swell with merriment.

"Yes, oh yes. Nothing could possibly make me happier. Yes!" The full grin appeared on his face as the sound of the most wonderful words he could ever hope to hear. He pulled her close again and kissed her hair.

"I am the happiest of men, Lizzy. We are to be the happiest couple. So much has happened to prevent this and now nothing can anymore." They laughed at everything that had befallen them, very few things seemed to have gone right for them, and now it was almost perfect.

They heard a knock at the door and instantly separated, both still bearing stunning smiles. Colonel Fitzwilliam walked in, a grave expression upon his face. At this, their happiness dropped from their countenances. He walked towards them and attempted a grin, it failed painfully becoming more of a grimace. He took the seat by the bed and rested his head in his hands. Darcy looked at him. Something had gone horribly wrong, he knew it.

"What is it? What can be so bad?" There was the edge of panic in his voice.

"It is Georgiana, she says she will not come home. Either you leave Miss Bennet or she will take what is hers and ruin your name."

"That's preposterous. She would not, she could not. What does she mean, everything that is hers? She will have nothing, I shall make sure of it. I am still her legal guardian whether she likes it or not."

"No, you are not anymore." There was a look of disbelief on Darcy's face as his cousin elaborated. "Lady Catherine, my father and my mother have overridden the guardianship. They have cast you out, taking her inheritance with them. They say that due to your injuries, you are unfit to look after her anymore. Your reputation will be in tatters unless you 'do you duty' as they put it, and leave Elizabeth ." He stood up abruptly and walked to the window, slamming his fist against the lintel. Darcy just sat there and looked stunned.

Resignation settled in the pit of Lizzy's stomach. She felt so ill. All the colour drained from her face. Darcy noticed her looking like she was about to faint and he took her into his arms, resting her head on his shoulder. He kissed her forehead and brushed a stray tear away. Would their nightmare never end? He doubted it. The prospect of a happy end looked very bleak indeed.

It rained every day. The sun never once made an appearance; the couple were separated by an eternity. He never wrote and she questioned not his decision. Darcy needed distance and Elizabeth longed to have him in her life again. He had left three weeks earlier. When warned not to go, he listened, but obeyed only his own inner voice. He had to go: to think; to be alone; to recuperate and regain the man he had been. The stress finally overpowered him. William broke, something snapped. Elizabeth was walking past his room when it happened; all she could hear were the muffled cries of her beloved.

*3 Weeks Earlier

Elizabeth entered the room and looked at the man in the bed. He lay face down, screaming into the pillows. She ran to him, taking his trembling body in her arms and slowly turning it to her. She had never seen such pain in his eyes. He was trapped, she could see it now: caged by his injuries and all that had befallen him the past several weeks. She brushed the fallen strands of hair off his face and looked at the scar forming on his brow. It was deep and cut right down the side of his eye. Running her finger lightly across it she looked into the well of his deep brown eyes. The feelings reflected in that well were so overpowering that she almost cried. Gently kissing the scar she watched as some of his pain disappeared. Running the back of her hand lightly down his face, she traced the outline of his lips. His tension was slowly diminishing. Words were unnecessary as he took her fully into his arms, pulling her down to lay beside him.

Tracing his fingers down her throat and along her collarbone, he looked deeply into her eyes. The temptation was overwhelming as he lowered his mouth to hers and kissed her slowly and tenderly. She wrapped her arms round his neck and his kisses deepened. Whatever was he doing? Logical thought almost vanished the moment Elizabeth returned his kisses with equal force; his greatest desire was to possess her. What logic remained knew it was wrong, he should not disgrace her, he should give her all the respect she was due. But, when he tried to pull away his body refused. Running his hand down her side he realised that she was wearing nothing but her nightdress. He could feel her skin through its thin material. The intense heat against his hand was almost unbearable. He had to stop. Somehow, he knew he must.

Darcy pulled away from the kiss and took a deep breath. Looking into her eyes he saw the flames of her desire still flaring. The light in her eyes was always dancing, but this...in his every dream his beloved Elizabeth looked at him like this. Elizabeth gently moved closer, the room suddenly cold when he pulled the warmth of his body away from hers. Her body pressed against him. He took a sharp intake of breath at the feel of her snuggling against his chest. Everything was lost to her as their eyes met. She smiled up at him. He kissed her again, deeply. This was right, this felt good. Darcy felt the pent up tension leave his body as he ran his tongue across her lips. His hand made its way along her side to the edge of her nightgown. His fingers brushed the bare skin of her shin. Elizabeth 's muscles twitched as the skin of his hand came into contact with hers; the electricity between them was palpable.

His hand moved further along her leg, past her knee and onto her outer thigh; her nightgown also travelling up her body. Their kissing became more passionate; each was aware of what would happen if they did not stop. The ability to speak escaped them with the ability to stop. They wanted only to become one.

His kisses moved from her lips and down her neck. The fingers of his free hand unfastened the tie at the top of her nightgown and slowly slid the gown down her shoulders. His lips followed, leaving a trail of fiery hot kisses along her collar bone. He was completely entranced by the softness of her skin. His other hand was busy tracing faint circles with his finger tips along her thigh, feeling her muscles flex excitedly with the contact. He wanted to lose himself in her, to forget everything that had happened. As Elizabeth kissed his neck and shoulder gently, Darcy knew that she was gifting him with her body to show her undying love and devotion.

Her nightgown slid down further, revealing her chest and he stared in awe of her beauty: her skin so pale and beautiful, not a blemish or flaw in sight. He pulled her gown completely off now, drinking in the sight of perfection lying at his side. She smiled demurely up at him, answering "yes" when his expression asked for permission to touch her. Desire raged in her eyes as he cupped her breast with his hand, his mouth again seeking hers as he kissed her deeply. She realised that he was far too dressed and made him sit. After divesting him of his night shirt, she straddled his lap and kissed him hard. His hands roamed over her back, memorising every part of her body, making a map with his touch. He pulled away and looked deeply into her eyes. Nothing but her love for him stared into his soul. Everything was going to be quite all right; at that moment he knew nothing could ever go wrong again.

He placed his hand on the back of her head and pulled her back slightly. Her neck was fully exposed and he kissed it gently, licking and nipping all the way down over her chest to her breasts. Kissing his way slowly around her swollen bud, he heard her moan quietly. His hand snaked up from her back to take the other breast, lovingly caressing her. He took her nipple into his mouth and ran his tongue across the tip. The sensation was amazing; she had never felt anything so wonderful. She arched against him, running her hands through his unruly hair and pulling him closer. She could feel him growing ever more excited beneath her and ground her hips against him. His mouth let go of her nipple as he moaned uncontrollably, his pleasure in feeling her so close to him almost too much to bear. His eyes were closed as she kissed him; her hands ran up his chest and round his neck.

He encircled her waist with his arms and pulled her as close to him as possible, almost crushing her against his chest. His eyes opened, and the flames of passion Elizabeth saw there erased any lingering traces of doubt. She could feel the tip of his manhood touching her sex and nothing in her life had ever seemed so right. He looked into her eyes and smiled, readjusting his grip so that his arms lay about her hips and whispered into her ear, his hot, ragged, breath only arousing her more.

"This will hurt and I am sorry, no more than few seconds. Look into my eyes, love. You are in control, let me love you." She nodded as he returned to kissing her neck.

He pulled back to look at her, their gazes locked. Slowly, he lowered her onto him, letting the warmth of her inner self surround him. He could feel the resistance of her virginity as she placed her hands firmly on his shoulders and pushed down further. Her pain was evident on her face. He kissed her, allowing her to adjust to the newness before going any further. The exquisite feeling of being so close to her lover overtook Elizabeth 's discomfort. She cupped his cheek in her hand and brushed her thumb over his lips. Gently, they began to move together. Both were already close to the edge, their movements becoming frantic.

She kissed him deeply to quiet their moans as he moved her up and down. Her vision began to blur. No matter how hard she breathed, no oxygen seemed to reach her brain; the feelings building within her blinded her to everything but Darcy. The point of ecstasy was ever closer as he whispered her name. The desperation in his voice pushed her over the precipice. He felt her grasp him tightly as he followed her into oblivion. It took all the effort he could muster not to call out her name as his every cell exploded. He held her close, not ever wanting to let her go.

Their breathing was heavy and erratic as he lay her down on the bed. Her eyes were tightly closed as she took his hand in hers and gripped it tightly. He lay next to her, running his fingers up and down the soft skin of her side. She huddled close to him, her hand still gripping his and resting lightly over his heart. Their breathing was still deep but becoming less ragged. As more oxygen found its way into his brain, a slow realisation hit him; and it hit him hard. One moment, he was lying in the arms of his beloved, the next he had all but jumped from the bed. He would have succeeded but he remembered his broken leg.

"What have I done?" The panic rose in his voice as Lizzy looked up at him from where she lay. Worry passed over her features. Doubts rapidly flooded her mind as she took in the expression on his face. Perhaps he regretted their intimacy because he did not love her. Perhaps he had finally decided to placate his sister and now, because of her folly he would be forced into marriage with the woman who would keep the siblings apart.

These thoughts caused Lizzy to pull the counterpane over her bare body, covering it from him for fear that he would look on her in disgust. Darcy, seeing this shift in body language looked at her. What he saw there caused an immediate softening of his countenance. He knew he must explain.

"Elizabeth, I only meant, how could I have let myself do this to you. You deserve so much more than what I have just done. I selfishly took something precious away from you." She placed a finger against his lips effectively silencing him.

"'Twas perfect. There has been nothing in my life that has felt so right. We are meant to share this closeness and it was meant to be now." She smiled at him and ran her hand down his cheek. He turned his head and kissed her palm gently. Taking her small hand in his larger one, he pulled her to him and kissed her lightly. He had to agree, this was absolutely right. "I did not mean to overreact. I fear my heart knows you yet my mind refuses to believe it. I could never doubt your affections for me."

No further words were spoken. Darcy lay her down once again on the bed, settling himself beside her and looking into her eyes for an eternity. All of his fears were put aside when he saw the love and tenderness reflected in his Elizabeth 's beautiful eyes. Nothing else was of any consequence, and nothing else would be of any consequence ever again. Darcy had made his decision days ago. He could not avoid marrying Lizzy now, even if he wished it. He most assuredly did not wish it. Lizzy had become his world. He committed himself to making her happy.

Kissing her again, he ran his hand gently down her face and neck, along the side of her breast to rest on her hip. Her arms wrapped round his neck as she pulled him closer into the kiss. The passion each felt for each other was far from being satiated. No matter how much his leg hurt, it would be no hindrance to loving the woman of his dreams. As he worshipped her body once more, Darcy knew he must tell her. He would gift her with his soul, make her happy and content. Then break to her gently just what he had decided must be done. At the moment, his mind refused to formulate the words; another struggle was upon him.

"I have to go home. To Pemberley." There, he had said it. In barely more than a whisper he told her. He had wanted to go home so badly, for so long. It was all too much for him to bear. He needed time, and distance, to reign in his thoughts and feelings, to understand. It was all too quick; Darcy knew not where he stood, who he was.

"Oh" was all she said. The look on her face told him she was hurting as he was hurting. Their confinement had been mutual as was their pain. The accident and its aftermath had forged between them a connection. They each knew what the other was thinking. Darcy had never experienced a bond like this with anyone; it was only Elizabeth . Their attachment was so strong it was ripping him apart. Elizabeth looked indescribably unhappy and he felt as much.

"I think I need some time to myself. These past few weeks have been so hard for both of us, I hardly know my own thoughts any longer." Tears welled in her beautiful eyes and began to slide down her precious face. Darcy felt his heart break. He pulled her to him and crushed her in a fierce hug.

"I'm sorry, I just cannot take this anymore, I have to get away."

"I do understand. Really." She pulled back slightly and met his eyes. "How long will you be gone?"

"I know not. All that is certain is that I need time. I miss the hills and the valleys. I miss the outdoors more than anything. Pemberley is wonderful this time of year, you know. When the snow settles on the tips of the peaks everything looks so serene. You will like it I think." Elizabeth 's sobs had stopped, yet she was still shaking. The insult. She had given her body and soul to him and he was running away. She sat up suddenly and stared right into his eyes. Every bit of strain was back; temporary release was not what he needed.

"Yes, you should go. This could become awkward, considering what has just taken place." Her voice was cold with hurt and anger. She looked away, suddenly feeling very ashamed. He tipped her chin up to look at him and kissed her gently.

"You could accompany me. I want to get away, but not from you. Never from you. I think my convalescence will occur more speedily at Pemberley and when I am well, we can be married."

"Yes, our marriage. I am wondering what else will be thrown in our way to prevent that from occurring." She smiled dejectedly and her voice held the bitterness built up over the past weeks. "There, I did it again, my mind refuses to believe that which what my soul knows to be true."

"I rejoice in that part of you which knows my very thoughts and feelings on our love. I shall never leave you, I shall always be here." He placed his hand over her heart and smiled. "Anyway, there will be no more mention of possible impediments. I intend to remain positive about our situation from now on. Now, will you come home with me or not?" He watched her as a myriad of emotions passed over her face, and were reflected in her fine eyes. Rejection settled in the pit of his stomach. Slowly Darcy slid down to lay on his back; trying to find physical comfort whilst attempting not to move his leg; a difficult task indeed.

"Are you well?" Worry flickered across her features when she saw his suddenly forlorn expression.

"I was better. But, you will not travel to Pemberley." Elizabeth heard the resignation and disappointment in his voice.

"I am sorry. I want to come. But, it would be wrong. I would not be allowed once we announced our engagement in any event. I do so want to be with you at Pemberley, but can you not see that it is impossible?" She turned away from him. Yes, she did want to go with him, if only to escape the raptures of her mother over her engagement to a man of consequence.

"Bring one of your sisters. Bring Jane and I will invite Bingley as well. Please think about it." He trailed his finger down her spine. Placing his hands round her ribs he gently pulled her back to lie beside him. Holding her close, he could not help but think that nothing about tonight seemed possible. She lay her head on his chest as he slowly stroked her hair, entwining his fingers in her dark brown tresses.

"I shall think about it if you insist. I would like to visit Pemberley once more before I become mistress of the place. We shall be able to lay together all night when that occurs will we not?" Mischievous smiles spread across their faces at the thought of what intimacies they would be able savour once their marriage came to pass. Their mirth could not last long; tonight remained a problem.

"I fear I shall have to sneak out of here now. I do long for the days when I shall not have to leave your arms." She raised herself on her elbows and looked at him. He smiled warmly and turned on his side to look at her on a level.

"I too wish those times already here. I do not think I shall ever leave your side. I want only to sleep next to you every night and I will be content. I promise, the moment I can walk, you shall become Mrs Darcy and I will never let you go. Georgiana can live with her aunt forever; I choose love, with you. We were meant to be together. Nothing can separate us now. We are bound to each other physically if not yet on paper." Cupping her cheek with his hand, he kissed her lightly and then smiled. The look of adoration on his face spoke of the true depths of his feelings. That love in his look flooded Lizzy; she felt warm and loved -- a feeling she would never tire of.

"I should go William, I do not wish it but I must. I hope you find the peace you need at Pemberley. When you know your mind, write to me and I shall come." She smiled and kissed his forehead before she rose from the bed. She bent down and picking up her discarded nightgown, donned it. As she turned to look at her lover, he grinned up at her, a mixture of sadness and elation reflected in his eyes. "Only be sure to do your thinking quickly and you shall see me soon enough. Remember William, I shall always love you, no matter what. I will think about you constantly, until you are safe and sound in my arms again." With that, she leaned down, kissed him gently and turned to leave.

"I shall think quickly, do not worry about that my love. I will see you tomorrow." With a parting glance at her fiancé, Lizzy left the room happy and content.

Two days later Darcy left for Derbyshire. Doctor Grant was most seriously displeased by his choice. In his professional opinion, Darcy's leg was still very badly injured. Nothing he could do or say could change his patient's mind. The doctor did demand a final inspection of the leg before Darcy left for Pemberley and was not pleased with the results. When he removed the dressing from the injured leg, the bruising had barely subsided. The muscles were inflamed and as he found when he touched the injury, still extremely painful.

Darcy didn't mean to yelp, but the searing pain that coursed through his leg was too much to bear. His whole body tensed as the doctor continued his examination of the broken leg. The expression on Grant's countenance did little to boost arcy's confidence in his recovery, but he consoled himself with the thought that miracles do happen. He had won his Elizabeth had he not?

No matter how damaged his leg, he felt a pressing need to escape the tortures of his own thoughts. The doctor gave him a very stern and long lecture over moving so soon, but Darcy refused to listen. His course was set; to Pemberley he would go to, whether the doctor allowed him or not.

The next day, dressed in short riding breeches and shirtsleeves Darcy was putting his upper body strength to good use. "Walking with crutches is an art form" he teased Lizzy. She helped him become accustomed to them, a task easier said than done in both of their opinions. They spent that day laughing while Doctor Grant scowled at Darcy and admonished him repeatedly on his foolish behaviour. Darcy, on the other hand, was glad to be moving around at last, however briefly. Still drained from his injuries, fatigue came quickly. Jane and Bingley paid him a visit, more pleased by Lizzy and Darcy's obvious understanding than by Darcy's capabilities with the crutches.

Their private farewells were said in his room the next very morning. They held each other, nothing more need be done or said. Regardless of their shared resolve, it was with a heavy heart that Darcy kissed Elizabeth one last time before she helped him to his awaiting carriage. He expressed his gratitude to the Bennets for their kind assistance, and he was away. The days since had become ever more unbearable for Elizabeth . Daily she would wake with hope of a letter from him, to tell her of his safe arrival, or his speedy recovery. Every morning that she walked into the breakfast parlour and saw nothing, a little piece of her died.

The whole household had taken notice of Lizzy and Darcy's increasingly close friendship; yet no one knew or guessed all that had occurred. Mrs Bennet was most upset by the fact he was leaving without securing the heart of one her daughters. Lizzy was a prime recipient of her mother's screeching complaints once he was gone. The words 'How could you have let him get away?' and 'You did not try hard enough' rang through the halls of Longbourn House.

At first Lizzy laughed these comments off. Soon enough, they became an irritant. It was with an enormous sense of sadness that she had waved goodbye to her secret lover and fiancé that morning. After Darcy's departure, the weather became colder than it had been and rain clouds appeared in the once blue sky.

Lizzy felt trapped, physically and mentally. She longed to tell Jane of her engagement but knew that Jane's knowledge of it would preclude her from travelling to Pemberley to see William. The unceasing rain poured down. There were floods in the surrounding villages and the fields were water logged. Lizzy, forced to remain inside the house longed for the exhilaration of a walk to Oakham Mount on an autumn day. Instead, the winter came, leaving her to wallow in her own thoughts. She tried everything from reading to writing down her musings, yet nothing relieved her mind of the constant suffering.

To make matters worse, Kitty was ecstatic. When Colonel Fitzwilliam visited Darcy the second time, he had spoken to Kitty at great length. They had discovered that they had much in common, to the astonishment of both. As it turned out, between Darcy and Kitty, Longbourn saw Fitzwilliam most of each day. When not talking to Darcy, Lizzy sat and watched the couple with increasing amazement. Kitty had changed enormously since Lydia 's elopement. She had grown into a respectable young woman; one capable of attracting the attentions of a certain handsome colonel. As they laughed and talked in the corner of the sitting room, Lizzy saw their happiness permeating from them. Lizzy was hopeful that nothing would intervene in their joy and love; such interference as she and William suffered was to be wished on no one.

The Colonel left a few days before Lizzy and Darcy finally resolved their differences properly. He had to return to town and his regiment. Soon he would be deployed to France and beyond to fight in the peninsular war, a growing concern. Most expected nothing to come of it, but Lizzy knew never to expect an easy fight. Kitty was unable to curb her enthusiasm for her dashing Colonel Fitzwilliam -- she scarcely drew breath between her sentences. There was such a difference in her that even Mr Bennet took more notice of his second youngest. He found, to his surprise, and the happiness of the entire house, that his rule of ten minutes of common sense was easily achieved by the new Kitty.

It pained Lizzy to bear witness to Kitty's happiness, and yet she rejoiced for her sister at the same time. Whereas Lizzy never received word from her beloved, Kitty did, and on a regular basis. There was much for Lizzy to envy in her sister's situation as the colonel sent letters to Kitty almost every day. Elizabeth entered the breakfast room, always in hope of a letter that never came while Kitty's place was always complete with missive. After three full weeks of nothing, every morning was becoming successively harder to face.

Caroline Bingley arrived at her destination. She began to wonder what had started her on this journey. A spur of the moment inspiration prompted her latest plan. Only yesterday, she had been ignorant of the full impact her stupid jealousy had caused and today, she was on her way to set it to rights. Her mind drifted back over the day when at long last, everything she had wrought in the past two weeks really penetrated her conscience.

*The Previous Day*

The room was decorated in rich gilded furnishing and red draperies. The hustle and bustle of the streets outside barely penetrated the thick walls of the impressive Grovesnor street residence. It was early morning and the grey clouds that hung over the city blackened the sky into an intimidating colour. The soft sheet rain coated everything and saturated everyone. It was a day to be glad to be indoors.

Louisa Hurst was sitting in the breakfast parlour of her husband's London townhouse when the letter arrived. As she took it off the silver serving tray she recognized the handwriting, immediately identifying its sender. Her brother Charles Bingley was the only person of her acquaintance who had the ability to make a missive look as if it had been trod on repeatedly, and this without trying. It was strange to receive a letter from her brother so soon after their departure. Curious as to the contents, Mrs. Hurst broke the seal and unfolded the paper. Reading through every word, re-reading every line, taking all the information in, she hardly noticed when her sister entered the room.

Caroline was certain that she had rarely seen a letter receive so much attention from Louisa. In fact, she had never seen anything get so much attention. Caroline was convinced that it must be news of either something terribly awful or terribly exciting. Caroline dreaded the former, as she was well aware that she would probably bear the blame for the whole incident between Darcy and his Aunt. As Caroline walked across to the sideboard, she heard her sister gasp and turned to look at her.

"Whatever is it that you are reading Louisa? I do hope it is nothing too scandalous." The forced smile plastered on her face spoke of her true feelings.

"It is from Charles, something terrible has happened. I think you should read this." After handing the letter from their brother to Caroline, Louisa prepared herself for the inevitably bad reaction.

Caroline sat down at the dinner table and unfolded the letter once again. The first worrying thing was the letter's length. A full four pages must mean that something very serious had happened. For Charles to expend the effort of concentrating long enough to write four full pages, Caroline was nervous of its contents. The first few paragraphs contained the usual pleasantries of which Charles normally wrote: how Jane was faring, the weather, enquiries after all of their health. Then the tone changed dramatically.

"Something quite tragic has occurred, Louisa. When Caroline wrote to Lady Catherine, she unleashed a wild torrent of trouble. I shall explain from the beginning. As you know, Miss Darcy arrived to see her brother. They spoke, and everything was working out perfectly to Darcy's satisfaction. Darcy was happy until Lady Catherine arrived. According to Darcy and Miss Elizabeth, Miss Darcy had been trying to convince Darcy to leave Miss Elizabeth as she was happy with their life together and did not look favourably on the impending changes. In the middle of this, Darcy's aunt arrived and attacked Miss Elizabeth , in her own home, for mercy's sake. Then, she found her way to Darcy's room due to Miss Darcy coming out of it in search of her aunt. When Lady Catherine espied Darcy, she attempted to have him removed from Longbourn to London for his recovery.

"Unfortunately, this occurrence coincided with Miss Darcy's wish to keep her brother to herself. When Darcy refused to remove to London , Miss Darcy joined the fray and delivered an ultimatum to her brother: either Darcy return to London with them and leave Miss Bennet, or he shall never see his sister again. This well suited Lady Catherine who whole-heartedly endorsed Miss Darcy's scheme. Darcy refused, believing that his sister would rescind her demand. He was wrong. Lady Catherine and Miss Darcy left that very day.

"That is not the worst of it, I fear. Shortly after Lady Catherine and Miss Darcy departed, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Darcy's cousin, arrived. He lodged with me at Netherfield during his stay and I found him quite agreeable. While visiting Darcy one day, he was apprised of the situation and sped forth to Kent to try and talk sense into Miss Darcy. He was not allowed to see her for very long but she made it clear she would not return. As he was set to depart, his parents arrived and along with his Aunt, they expressed their displeasure at Darcy's 'unfortunate' alliance. I cannot agree with calling it such due to my betrothal to Miss Bennet, but that is what Darcy's family said.

"More demands were laid at his feet, this time at a higher cost to Darcy himself. If he insisted on continuing his liaison with Miss Elizabeth, they would ruin Darcy's name. They have already wrested Miss Darcy's guardianship out of his control and claimed her inheritance. This entire debacle is simply getting out of hand, and of course, Darcy can do nothing until he is well again. He is distraught, of course. I hope you give your sister a hard time. She deserves it after inflicting such pain upon the very man she claimed to love. I must go and see how he is doing. He is not himself Louisa, a completely different person since this whole torrid affair began. I hope that in time, our friend will find the happiness he deserves and that Caroline finds the conscience to never interfere again.

Yours etc

Charles"

"Oh my God, what have I done?" Tears streaked through the rouge on her cheeks as it had for countless previous days. Her feelings of guilt had pervaded her thoughts ever since she had confessed her interference to Darcy, and now the fruits of her labours were devastating.

"You have made him very unhappy sister. I hope you are pleased with yourself. It is certain that you shall never be invited to Pemberley again. In fact, you shall be lucky if Charles will let you near Netherfield again. What are you going to do now? It is a little late for an apology, is it not?" Louisa walked over to the window and looked down at the grimy streets below.

"I must go Louisa, I have to help."

"Go where? Do not even think about travelling to Hertfordshire. Should Mr. Darcy leap from his sickbed to strangle you and his sister, your fates would be pleasant compared to his. I do not like your method of helping Caroline. I have watched you plot, connive and meddle for years, but this latest scheme has outshone all of your past tomfoolery. You should have just given him up." Louisa was poised to leave the room when she heard her sister's quiet voice; Caroline it seemed, was properly humbled.

"I meant Kent . I need to see Georgiana." Caroline stood in the centre of the room; her head slumped in self recrimination. Her very feathers seem to droop and bow forgiveness before God.

"Lady Catherine will never allow you near her. Take my advice and let Mr. Darcy and his cousin sort it out. You have done more than enough already." With that, Louisa left Caroline to think.

"I can help him, he needs happiness and I shall help him attain it. Kent Is not that far, is it?" Her answer was silence; she was alone save her own scheming thoughts.

"Lizzy? May we talk?" Jane's head appeared around the door. Her long hair was dangling to one side in the tight braid she wore for bed. This was their usual time for conversation, the two often spent most of the night talking. If anything was a bother to either of them, they would ponder it together whilst the rest of Longbourn slept. Today would be no different, it was apparent that something was preying on Lizzy's mind and Jane felt the need to force her confidence.

"Of course Jane. You know I always save this time for our conversations." Lizzy smiled but it failed to reach her eyes. There was definitely something wrong and Jane had a fair idea what that something was. As she settled herself on the bed with Lizzy, Jane took up her sister's hand and began to talk.

"He has not written, has he?" There it was, the root of Lizzy's despair, out in the open.

"He has no obligation to write, I just thought he might by now. It has been near enough three weeks and still nothing from him. I admit to being slightly worried." She turned away, unable to meet Jane's eyes.

"Are you worried that he might have changed his mind?"

"What do you mean?" This gently uttered remark captured Lizzy's full attention as it brought out all of her fears and doubts; Jane understood her so easily.

"You fear that perhaps he has changed his mind and has gone to recover his sister. You know it is not true, yet you doubt your heart. I thought you knew him better than that Lizzy."

"I do Jane. I know he would never leave me. He is so constant in his affection that I will have no reason to doubt him. After everything all that has happened to us so far, my mind refuses to believe what my heart is telling it. I just thought he might have contacted me before now. I have been so worried about him. Shortly before he left, I came upon him at night, and he was crying Jane. He was so upset by this whole affair that he actually broke down and cried. I just wish to be with him." She looked at her sister and placed her hand over their joined ones. "I shall be all right Jane, believe me. This will pass soon enough." The smile did reach her eyes this time. Jane was relieved by this small transition in her sister.

"I had noticed that you and Mr Darcy seemed even closer before his departure. I had not thought it possible for two unmarried people to be so intimate without touching." The wicked glint in Jane's eye forewarned of an upcoming barrage of questions.

Lizzy looked about the room, anywhere but at Jane -- eye contact would have given all away. She had to marshal her thoughts before she could even begin to answer her sister's unspoken inquiry. How could she even begin to tell her sister of what happened in the last few days of Darcy's stay at Longbourn? After focusing very hard on the water jug and bowl on the dresser, her thoughts arranged themselves.

"Jane, I have something to tell you, but you must promise to tell not a soul, not a single soul." Jane nodded with wide eyes, and Lizzy carried on. "Mr Darcy and I are engaged Jane. He asked me before Colonel Fitzwilliam arrived for the second time and I accepted. I was so happy, he chose me above his own sister. I thought I might have lost him again when his cousin told us of his family's decision to take Lady Catherine and Miss Darcy's part in the dispute. Everyone is against him and yet he still wants me. What have I done to deserve something so special Jane? He loves me." Tears welled in her eyes as she looked at her sister. Jane's normally placid countenance was over writ by a confused expression.

"You are engaged? Why has it not been announced? Why has he left for Pemberley? Lizzy, tell me everything you have not yet already." Her demanding tone was very un-Jane like, her expression more worried and concerned than happy.

"I did not wish to announce it because I wish to go to Pemberley to see him. He needed time to think and heal from within as well as without. So much has happened to him these past weeks. Can we be surprised if he is confused? He told me of his life and Jane, it has been such a sad one. He effectively lost his family all at once when his mother died and his father and sister shunned him, and now he has lost what he had left. He needs to be happy Jane, he deserves to be happy. Please, do not deny us that. If you tell anyone of our engagement, I shall go to Pemberley anyway. Too much has already come between us and I can see from your expression that you want to interfere, too. Please, I beg of you, be happy for us silently and let me see my fiancé at his home one last time before we wed." This was a great deal for Jane to take in; she released Lizzy's hand and walked to the window to look out at the night sky.

"I can promise nothing Elizabeth . You know that society dictates the rules in which we live and yet you go against all of them. To see him at Pemberley would be dangerous especially if news of your engagement were to get abroad. I shall not be the one to tell your secrets, but please, be careful dear sister. For both your sakes, do not be foolish."

Jane turned to look at her sister with a forlorn expression etched onto her pretty features. She so hoped that Lizzy would find love and happiness but nothing seemed to be going right for the couple. The last thing she wanted was for Lizzy to become part of a scandal that would forever ruin the lives of both. She hated seeing her sister upset in any way, these few weeks had taken their toll on Lizzy; it was written in her eyes. Jane walked over and took her younger sibling into her arms. For once it was Lizzy that required comforting.

"I shall be careful Jane. I just need to ensure that he is well. He says that you and Mr Bingley will be invited. We could all travel up together. It would be a break from our dear mama. Please say you shall consider it." The pleading look in Lizzy's eyes proved too much for Jane to resist.

"If he does write and ask for us all, then we will all go. Do not worry. I should leave you, it is getting late." She kissed Lizzy on the forehead and rose from the bed. Walking towards the door, she cast a parting look at Lizzy.

"Thank you Jane."

As she was shown into the grand sitting room at Rosings Park , Caroline Bingley attempted to formulate her words in her mind. What could she tell the girl that had seemingly ruined every chance of Mr. Darcy's happiness? This question begged to be answered as Miss Darcy soon entered the room, a weak smile playing on her lips. She suggested that Miss Bingley take a seat before settling herself across the room. The bell was rung and tea was ordered. After refreshments had been served, Georgiana decided to start the conversation.

"Miss Bingley, this is a surprise." Georgiana's voice was small and barely audible. Caroline strained to hear the tiny words.

"How are you, dear Georgiana? I understand you left Hertfordshire in quite a rush. Your brother is worried about you." Miss Bingley had little patience for idle pleasantries and so went directly to her point. At the mention of Darcy, Georgiana looked straight at Caroline.

"Is he? I know not why;" Her voice strengthened as she reined the guilt stricken feelings back.

"Of course he is. You ran from his sick room saying you would not see him again. Do you not realise how upset he has become?" Her ire began to rise when she thought of the dejection she had caused.

"I said that I would see him again once he has reconsidered his choice of wife. She is very nice, I grant you, but so beneath him." It was a shock to hear Miss Darcy put so many words together and even stranger still to hear the anger surge from the younger girl's lips.

"It is true that Miss Elizabeth's station could be considered lower than your brother's, but he loves her. Did you not observe the way they look at each other whilst you were visiting? Of course he will choose his only chance of happiness if you wish to remain spoilt." Caroline rose from her seat as did Miss Darcy.

"Do not talk to me in that tone. Do you know who I am?"

"Yes I do, and do you know what you have wrought? His entire family is against him now. Nobody but your cousin will stand by his side. You are too selfish for words, young lady. He will forsake everything to get his own way. You will have ruined your life and his just for spite." Caroline spat the last few words out, her anger having escalated to great heights. Georgiana would pay for what she had done. The look of defiance on Miss Darcy's countenance was replaced by a look of shock.

"What? The entire family? What has happened? I only said I would not see him again."

"Your aunts have wrested control of your fortune and your guardianship from him. Your family are orchestrating his ruin. The plan you instigated has succeeded, his name shall not be mentioned without malice in London . He shall be no one and it is all thanks to you, and your spoilt behaviour. How can you defend yourself?"

Georgiana sat down again, too weak to stand. What had happened she knew not. She had planned none of this, expected none of this and yet everything seemed to come back to her and her childish ultimatum. Why ever had Caroline Bingley come to sort this out? Why had she refused to listen when cousin Fitzwilliam had attempted to see her? Everything Miss Bingley accused her of weighed in her mind and the conclusion she reached smote her so hard she would have reeled backward had she not been seated.

"Why are you here? What has this to do with you?" Her voice was small again, reflecting her uncertainty.

"It was I who sent for your aunt in the first place. Had I not written that letter, none of this would have happened. I am to blame and I accept my own responsibility. Now I want you to see what you have wrought as well."

"I did not ask for any of those things. I never wished to turn his family against William. I could never wish that upon him. Is he very unhappy?" Tears welled in Miss Darcy's eyes. Caroline walked over and put her arm around the young girl.

"Yes, he is, I am afraid to say, as is Miss Elizabeth. I had thought from last summer that you liked her."

"I do. Really, I do. She is so alive and caring. I have been too long with my aunt I fear." The tears spilled down her face as Miss Bingley held her close. "I never meant for it to get this bad. I do not know what I was doing. I am so stupid."

"It is all right, everything will be resolved, do not worry. You know how stubborn your brother is. I fear you shall have to go see him before he will talk to you again. He will not back down, so I am afraid it falls on you to do so. Please think about this dear Georgiana, do not ruin the life you shared with your brother because of your aunt's vitriol."

Georgiana pulled back to look at Caroline. Never would she have thought that one day she would be being comforted by the orange feather-wearing termagant. But Georgiana knew that Miss Bingley was right, she must talk to William. He would be very angry and it would require a long time for the rift she caused to fully heal. She was resolved, she could do this. The question remained: how to get to Hertfordshire without being missed by Lady Catherine? As if reading her mind, Caroline had the answer.

"I have written to Colonel Fitzwilliam in London and he is to collect us when you are ready. We shall have to be careful and leave in the dead of night. You are certain you want to do this? Once you have left here, there can be no turning back. You have to be certain you want your happiness and that you will let your brother have his."

Georgiana nodded and smiled. Seeing her brother again would be nice. She had missed him these last three weeks. Her aunts and her cousin Anne had become increasingly tiresome. Yes, she was positive. Elizabeth would be a wonderful sister; the time spent with Aunt Catherine and Cousin Anne merely underlined this blatantly obvious fact. They would leave Rosings Park in a few days. For both Georgiana and Caroline, life began to look more promising.

Lizzy stirred in her sleep. Feeling the chill of the cold morning, she pulled the sheets closer around her. The sound of footsteps running along the landing invaded her resting mind and brought her into the land of day. The curtains cast their usual grey light about the room; it was raining again. Her unending sense of loss sank deep into the pit of her stomach as she realised it would be another day with no escape. With every morning it became increasingly harder to open her eyes. Once the most beautiful part of the day, morning was now the least anticipated.

Most days Elizabeth wished to huddle in bed all day, wallowing in her self pity and longing. The feel of William holding her was still fresh in her mind. The recollected sensation of his lips on her skin, the sense of completeness when he entered her, the overwhelming joy when he said he would rather be in love; those memories brought a smile to her face. These reminisces alone could inspire her to rise every day. Today was no different.

She rose from the bed and walked to the window. Pulling the curtains back, she saw the sun just beginning to appear from behind a black cloud. She smiled at the thought of her beloved William pining for her also. The peeping sun filled her with a confidence she had not felt in a seemingly long time. Elizabeth rushed to bathe and dress, nothing seemed fast enough. Slowing herself as she reached the steps, she took a deep calming breath and descended them gently. Mrs Hill rushed past her to get to Mrs Bennet who could be heard shrieking from the floor above. The whole house was livelier than it had ever been. Something had definitely happened.

As Lizzy wandered into the breakfast parlour, her father looked up and smiled at her. The glint in his eye suggested that knowledge to which she was not yet privy. Smiling back, she poured herself tea from the side table and sat down next to Mr. Bennet. When Jane arrived, beaming at Lizzy from the door, suspicion filled her heart. Lizzy glanced at her father again and he produced a note from his waistcoat pocket and presented it to her.

"I hope this will cheer you up dearest." He stood and kissed her forehead before leaving the room.

Lizzy stared at the missive in her hand and lightly traced the writing with her index finger. There, in her hand was what she had needed for so long. She dare not open it. Apprehension overtook her as she stared long and hard at the letter before her. Slowly she

turned it over and broke the seal. Unfolding the single sheet of paper, it took her a few minutes to recognise the words that filled her heart with joy.

"I miss you. Will you come to Pemberley now? Bring Jane, I have written to Bingley. Please, I need you.

Forever yours

FD"

Nothing more need be said. Looking up she saw Jane nod once and smile. They were to go to Pemberley. All that remained was to ask her father. Her face erupted into a smile, one that required a great deal of time to erase.

As she moved across the room gathering clothes and items to take with her, a happy feeling permeated the air. Nothing could take her down from the high she had put herself on. She was so happy. Lizzy Bennet was about to travel to Derbyshire to see her beloved William and nothing in this world would prevent her from going. The minute she received his letter asking her to come she was filled with such joy that not a moment was to be wasted. What could be more important than preparing for the long journey?

As she walked about the room collecting things from various drawers and cabinets, some items caught her attention. On her dressing table was her collection of keepsakes. She had been such a little hoarder when she was small. Everything she could find of interest she would take home to show her papa and then place it somewhere safe. Small pebbles and rocks now adorned almost every surface. Her mother could not believe how much rubbish could fill the room and would attempt to rid the room of these small treasures. Every time that occurred, Lizzy would run back down the stairs and retrieve them from Mrs Hill. They would have to now be forfeited.

Next to the washing jug and bowl set lay a small rag doll. It had been given to her by her uncle Gardiner. Some years before, when he had been establishing the warehouses in London , he had travelled to Asia . This was long before he met his wonderful wife. He had brought Lizzy a doll back and she had loved it more than anything. Now it lay looking lifeless with shining eyes in front of the mirror. Lizzy walked over and gently picked it up. The stitching was fraying and the paint work that was her face faded. Her fingers played with the hem of the doll's dress as she recalled the day she had been presented with it. Now it would have to remain here. The Mistress of Pemberley does not have small children's toys in her chambers. This sentimentality had to stop if she ever wanted to leave Longbourn to live with her beloved.

From the doorway Jane had sensed her plight. She stood and watched her sister's expression turn from excitement to melancholy in a matter of seconds. This was only a short journey yet the looming prospect of that inevitable trip forever seemed to be getting closer. There was only one way to get Elizabeth Bennet to pack and that was to help her. When she took a step into the room, Lizzy looked round and smiled at Jane. There, the excitement was back for the time being. Laying the doll down on the bed, Lizzy walked over and took Jane's hand.

"I fear this could be harder that I expected."

"You shall be leaving Longbourn for good soon and you can see it happening already, is that it?"

"How well you know me Jane. Yes, I can see myself leaving all this behind. I shall be glad to get away from some aspects of our lives however." As if to demonstrate her point, screeching could be heard from beyond the door.

Mrs Bennet was rushing about the place trying to rally the girls to hurry up. The coach to take them to Derbyshire would be arriving in a few moments and as all good mothers do, she wanted her two eldest to be ready for that occurrence. Mr Bingley was to travel with them during the long two-day coach ride. Thus, Lizzy would be chaperone to Jane and everything would be proper. Yet both sisters were nervous about making this trip.

Lizzy was anxious about seeing her fiancée again after so long with no contact. Three weeks without once hearing from him and then a summons to leave for Pemberley was almost too much to bear for her fragile emotions. She had missed him more than words could ever say. All she wanted to do was see him again and make sure he would be well. Their marriage would take place shortly after his leg was fully recovered. Oh how she longed for this day as then she would never have to leave his embrace again.

Jane was nervous for a very different reason. The extra time with her beloved Bingley would be most welcome she had to admit. She had not spent such a length of time in his company since she was ill at Netherfield; and then she was too unwell to enjoy it at the time. Now she could see him all the day long. She could greet him in the morning and bade him well at night. There would be wonderful times in each others company. Yet the object of her consternation was her sister.

It was true that she had noticed a subtle difference in Lizzy that only she could pick up on. Something had definitely happened between her sister and Mr Darcy during the last few days of his stay. All she could hope for that Lizzy and her Mr Darcy would take care, for proprieties sake. The thought of Lydia 's scandal was still too fresh in everyone's mind.

"Come on Lizzy, we must make haste if we are to leave soon. I would not wish to keep Mr Darcy waiting if I were you."

"No, I should not wish that either. I have waited for what seems like an eternity for that missive and I do not want to delay our departure due to melancholy. What would William think of his soon-to-be wife? Sniffling over something so insignificant!" She laughed a little and Jane joined in.

"I think he would smile and make sure you were happy with your decision. He cares about you a great deal; I see it when he looks at you."

"I know William cares a great deal for me, every time I get caught in his gaze, I feel so loved. He is truly the best man I know and I love him so very dearly. I am so glad you are to come with me Jane. I feel I shall never leave his side once I see him again. These past three weeks have been the worst ones of all."

The despondency she had felt in the past days was now mixed with anticipation of the reunion. If she were not careful, she feared she may burst; the torrent of emotions was too great to bear. She could only hope that on sighting her fiancé, she would at least remain respectable and not break down as she thought she might.

The sisters managed to finish the packing in no time at all. Their trunks were taken downstairs as the girls went to talk with their family one last time for four weeks. It was not a long trip; it felt incredibly short to Elizabeth . A lifetime with Darcy was barely long enough.

This trip was all very vexing for Mrs Bennet. With Jane's wedding to Mr Bingley to plan, an extended excursion such as this was unforgivable. Yet she comforted herself in the knowledge that another of her daughter's hand may be secured by the very wealthy Mr Darcy. Jane would at least have time with Mr Bingley and Lizzy could come back having received an offer from Darcy. The more Mrs Bennet pondered this predicament, the more perfect it became and she delighted in telling her husband so repeatedly.

"I could not have planned this any better Mr Bennet. Just think, Jane can become better acquainted with her fiancé and Lizzy could well become engaged to Mr Darcy. For surely, his injuries must have healed by now. I think he only remained here as long as he did to stay with Lizzy. I do hope that shall be the case."

"You are forgetting my dear; Mr Darcy was still very unwell when he left here. Lizzy may just have been a pleasant diversion."

"Oh you do talk nonsense Mr Bennet. I think it most likely that Mr Darcy is mad in love with Lizzy. Did you not see the way he looked at her as he departed? I do hope that Lizzy will not be as strong willed with this gentleman as she was with Mr Collins." Her voice took on the all too familiar disappointment over that particular match. The thought of Charlotte Lucas becoming the mistress of Longbourn still brought on the spasms in her sides and flutterings in her chest.

"On the contrary Madame, I can assure you, Lizzy would be on her best behaviour when in the company of such a man. Would you not my dear?" He looked fondly at his second eldest and winked. She smiled radiantly in return.

She was indeed his favourite daughter and he only wished for her happiness. Since Darcy's leaving, the depression he had seen in her spirits had caused him such pain. The life and sparkle in her eyes seemed to dwindle and disappear with each day of hearing nothing. Mrs Bennet's hopes for a marriage between the two were matched by his own wishes. Seeing the pair together, hearing her laughing and watching her smile so beautifully towards her Mr Darcy caused his heart to soar. He wished her nothing but joy.

This visit was not how he would have wished it however. If, and it was most likely, Darcy's injuries had not healed as well as they might, he knew that this could be the last time he saw Lizzy living at Longbourn. He knew all too well that Lizzy would stay at Pemberley and be married quietly in Derbyshire if Darcy asked her to. He had reservations about letting her go with only her sister and soon-to-be brother in law as company. But the expression of gloom and sadness that Lizzy had worn over the past few weeks overruled any apprehension he may have had.

He had known who the letter was from the moment he had received it, the sealing wax stamped with the very definite initial of that very important person. Jane saw it in her fathers hand and knew the message contained within. She divulged some of her information about what it contained and asked him if he would allow them to go to Pemberley. The expression of joy on Lizzy's face gave reassurance to himself and to Jane. How could he have refused his two favourite daughters anything?

So there they all were, standing in the courtyard and driveway to Longbourn. Mr Bingley had just arrived mere moments before and the loading had begun. The smile on Elizabeth 's face was radiant, covering up the nervous feelings coursing through her body. She ached to see Darcy again. The longing that had been created in her was overwhelming. She found herself thinking about her fiancé with very wanton thoughts. The feeling of being that close to the person she loved more than life was certainly an experience. One she wanted oft repeated. She needed to see him, talk to him, and know he was suffering the deprivation of her touch as much as she was his. It was getting too much for her to abide. At this second, she no longer feared breaking down in front of him at sight but rather more amorous thoughts invaded her mind.

Bingley had received a short missive from his friend that morning. It was only a small favour he asked of his friend (Ha, small indeed thought Bingley). Lysanda was still in the stable at Longbourn and all Darcy asked was that he be brought up with the party. He trusted no one with his precious horses and the fact that he wished Bingley to ride the steed brought a smile to Bingley's face. He would of course be glad to ride Lysanda some of the way back. The prospect of spending a coach ride to Derbyshire with two of the most agreeable ladies in the country won over for the majority of the ride.

The horse would be well taken care of being ridden by a postillion surely and with that he could converse with his angel and her sister. They were all set to go within a few minutes of his arrival. He had of course rushed to Jane and shared a few private words with his fiancé. On his way to his angel, he had seen Elizabeth . She had looked so happy yet perturbed at the same time. He put it down to nerves at seeing Darcy once more. He knew he would be nervous as well, his best friend had changed since the fall, he knew not what to expect from the long anticipated meeting.

The rest of the Bennet clan were standing outside on the cold December's day. The wintry sun cast down on them as they bade their farewells and left for the long trip to Pemberley. Mr Bennet was most upset to see his two eldest depart but also happy for Elizabeth . He wished most sincerely that she would find the happiness she deserved. Mrs Bennet was ecstatic if not slightly put out and Kitty and Mary just stood idly by.

Jane, Elizabeth and Mr Bingley boarded the carriage bearing the Bingley livery and left Longbourn. Both Jane and her sister waved farewell until their family home was no longer in sight and settled down for the long journey. Bingley was sitting across from the sisters as propriety dictated when travelling with ladies. Lizzy had brought a book to read and Jane had brought some embroidery she was hoping to complete.

Bingley was one for staring out onto the countryside. Lizzy had imagined he would be. It was a mystery how Bingley had become such close friends with Darcy. They were so different from each other. Darcy would sit and read on a journey, not one for missing out on an opportunity to expand his mind. In fact, he would most probably not have ridden in the carriage with the ladies but most likely travelled astride Lysanda. Lizzy so hoped he would be able to ride once more, he did make a very impressive figure when in his leather riding boots-

'Stop it Elizabeth , thoughts like that are not allowed.' She admonished herself, smiling all the while.

It was Bingley that was the first to break the silence only twenty minutes into the journey. He was as concerned for his friend as were the other occupants of the carriage.

"I wonder how Darcy is. I had not heard of him before he requested our company. Normally he is a very regular correspondent."

"Do not worry Charles; Mr Darcy will be quite alright. You shall see him tomorrow and all will be well."

Jane's voice was serene and calming. Even though she addressed her fiancé, Elizabeth was in her thoughts as well. Ever since they had begun their journey, her sister seemed somewhat distant. She could tell the book had been unread.

"I know he shall be well again, it is just, I have never seen him so vulnerable as when he was ill. He has always been there, so strong. It was he that looked after me, not the other way round."

"He shall be fine Mr Bingley, if he has changed then so be it. He is still your best friend and you his. Please, I beg you, leave it at this."

Lizzy was staring out of the window, unable to look at the other occupants. Mr Bingley's worries had been too close to her own. Nothing more was said as the carriage ambled along the road.

Georgiana was moving around her room quickly and purposefully. Her mind was so occupied with her task and recriminations that she never noticed the visitor entering her chambers. There was so little time and so much to do. Not a moment could be wasted if she were to succeed in her plan. It was this blindness to the real world that made her walk straight into Caroline Bingley.

"Miss Bingley, I am s...sorry."

The two ladies dropped curtsies yet Georgiana never once looked up from her feet. Her mind was elsewhere Caroline could tell, and she knew exactly where.

"It is quite alright. I am here to ask if you are nearly ready. We must depart tonight. Everything is arranged. Colonel Fitzwilliam will be waiting for us at midnight near the parsonage."

"Yes, I t...think I am ready. I am quite filled with nerves."

Her voice was so quiet and unsure. In her mind, Georgiana could not see her brother forgiving her at all. Images of him refusing to see her and being cast out of her home sprung to mind. If she had indeed lost her brothers love, what would she do? To spend the rest of her time until her coming out with her Aunt seemed terrifying. Since she has found out about Lady Catherine's interference to the full extent she had barely spoken ten words to her. Her family had taken her side and turned their back on Fitzwilliam. He was alone in the world and it was all her fault.

"What have you to be nervous about? Your brother will welcome you back with open arms. I am quite sure he is quite desolate without you." Caroline's voice tried to be reassuring but how could it be when her own mind was so filled with doubt.

"I fear it may be too late to repair the rift I have caused between us. It has always been there but now it has grown. I never loved my brother until our father died and he was the only person I had left. After all my father and I put him through, I am so lucky we have remained civil for this length of time."

Georgiana walked to the window imitating her dear brother's usual stance. She was crying lightly as the guilt she had suppressed for so long flowed to the surface. Caroline walked up to her and placed a hand on her shoulder. Georgiana didn't know why she was telling all this to a relative stranger. No matter how long she had been acquainted with Miss Bingley, they barely knew each other. Both women were sadly misunderstood.

"Mr Darcy has only ever spoken highly of you. Even before your father departed from this world he had only ever loved you. Please do not give up hope dear Georgiana, your brother will take you back and you shall be happy."

"He loved me?" Caroline nodded and looked at the younger woman's reflection in the window.

"Of course he did. Why should he not?" Caroline turned Georgiana to face her.

"It was too horrible. I never thought of it until my father died, then it struck me. I forgot that he lost his mother whereas I never knew her. I was so heartless yet never knew it. Poor Fitzwilliam." She drew a shuddering breath as she tried to prevent the tears from falling.

"He forgave you Georgiana, he will forgive you again."

"How can you be sure? If he does not I will have lost everyone I care about. He is my only true family. Richard will take sides with my brother and I shall be alone-"

"Yes, but Mr Darcy is already by himself. He will understand my dear, do not worry."

"I hope you are right Miss Bingley-"

"Please, call me Caroline. We have both made very silly mistakes in our lives. Please, I ask you to think of this no more else we shall be very late. You would not wish to leave Colonel Fitzwilliam waiting tonight, would you?"

For the first time in Georgiana's memory, Caroline Bingley smiled sincerely. She smiled back in return; thankful of the new friendship she had formed with this woman. She nodded at Caroline and began to pack her belongings. Tonight they would leave Rosings secretly and make their way to Derbyshire.

Col. Fitzwilliam had let them know of Darcy's location and would take them there. The three conspirators had arranged this without Lady Catherine ever knowing. That was no mean feat as Lady Catherine was meant to know all. Soon, Georgiana would beg her forgiveness from her brother one more time.

No more was spoken of his worries for Darcy as the carriage made its way to Pemberley. Bingley knew better than to risk his life and disagree with Jane's sister. If one was unhappy about something, it automatically followed that the sister would be as well. In fact, so unnerved was he that the following day he rode Lysanda the rest of the way. Two Bennet sisters were more than he could handle easily.

Nothing out of the ordinary occurred en route. They travelled as far as they could in one day, spending the night at an inn half way between Longbourn and Derbyshire and rose early the next morning to conclude the journey. They were expected to arrive at Pemberley mid afternoon on the second day, and, much to the relief of all, they did.

The carriage took the same road that Elizabeth travelled in summer. In the missive to Bingley, Darcy had requested that they drive up using the lower road. This was of course due to the fact that Elizabeth had enjoyed the prospect from this angle once before. Indeed, even in the throws of winter, the grounds surrounding Pemberley were just as beautiful. Elizabeth smiled as she recounted the journey she had taken previously with her aunt and uncle. The trees were bare and the ground covered in a white haze, residue from the morning's frost. To her it looked magical.

The carriage wound its way up to the house at a steady rate. The expression Jane bore was wonderful. Lizzy had to remember that Jane had never seen Pemberley, the look of surprise and awe was reminiscent of that Elizabeth had worn when first setting her eyes on the beauty around her.

"Is it not beautiful Jane? I shall never forget the first time I glimpsed the house and neither will you I am sure."

"You were quite right when you told me of this place. It truly is perfect. Just think Lizzy, you shall live here. I should not imagine anything more fitting for my intrepid Lizzy than miles of woodland to explore." Jane smiled and continued to look from the window, Lizzy knew that just around the next bend, there was a prospect that would reduce Jane to very few words indeed.

Bingley rode alongside the carriage unaware of the nature of his surroundings, he had travelled up this road so many times before that it felt more like coming home that just a visit. He could see the women in the coach gazing at the area, the expression on both a joy to behold as they stared in amazement. He felt proud of the grounds for Darcy. It should be he not Bingley that showed the grounds off for the first time to the ladies.

As expected, round the next turn was the house. It suddenly appeared from behind a group of trees. Both Lizzy and Jane drew deep breaths at the sight. Lizzy smiled and looked fondly upon the place that would soon be her home. Knowing that the man she loved was within the stone walls made her anxious. True, three weeks was not an awfully long period of time from one's fiancé but it had felt like much more.

Jane was indeed rendered speechless as she took in the most wonderful vision before her. All the rumours of Mr Darcy owning a great house in Derbyshire were certainly true. Where Elizabeth felt comfortable at nearing the place, Jane was nervous. Suddenly intimidated by the prospect and she turned to look through the other window. Elizabeth noticed this yet could not say anything. They had arrived and, to Elizabeth 's joy, were greeted by a grinning Darcy.

He was standing there waiting for them; his long great-coat blowing slightly in the breeze. To Bingley and Jane he looked extremely well; it was Elizabeth that noticed his thinner and paler appearance. She would have to question him about that later. After spending weeks nursing him back to health, she had taken a keen interest in keeping him in that condition.

Bingley jumped off Lysanda and walked towards his friend. They shook hands and exchanged some brief words before Darcy looked up and caught Elizabeth 's eye. He walked towards the carriage and helped her down the step to the ground. She could tell it was painful for him; he barely placed any of his weight on his right leg. They moved to the side to let Bingley hand Jane down. They could not stop looking at each other, so many unspoken words passed between them in those few seconds.

"Miss Elizabeth, welcome to Pemberley again." He gently kissed the back of her hand then taking it in his; he turned to Bingley and Jane. It was Jane's awestruck expression that made him laugh slightly.

"I apologise for laughing but I last saw that expression on Bingley when he first arrived here. Welcome to Pemberley Miss Bennet." He bowed low as she curtsied before him.

A cold breeze ran through indicating that a warm house beckoned them in. He was about to lead the way when he espied Lysanda. Elizabeth followed as he walked over to where the horse stood, held steady by one of the many grooms. Running his hand down the horse's head he whispered some words of welcome. It was when he turned round that he noticed Elizabeth keeping her distance from the beast, her expression apprehensive. It dawned on him; she was afraid of horses.

"Pray tell me Madame, how a young lady like you can be so scared of this very docile animal?"

He smiled and reached for her hand, his other hand holding the horse's snaffle. Wary yet trusting, she took his hand and walked towards him.

"He shall not hurt you, I promise. Just stroke him; he has a ticklish nose though so be warned." To hear Darcy laughed filled her with confidence as she gently ran her hand down Lysanda's neck.

"I have always been wary of horses. I think it has become accentuated some recently by having a good friend of mine almost being killed whilst riding."

"I can assure you Madame that your good friend is going to be well and riding again. And in turn you may ride if you do him the honour of letting him teach you."

"I would like that, very much so sir."

She smiled up at him. Patting the horse's neck one last time, Darcy indicated for him to be taken to the stables. Looking at Elizabeth , he gestured towards the house.

"Shall we Miss Bennet?"

"Certainly Mr Darcy." Taking his arm, they walked to the house.

Bingley and Jane had been watching the scene play before them. Jane in wonder at how Mr Darcy had finally gotten her sister to touch a horse, Bingley in slight irritation as it was indeed, very cold to ride horseback.

As they entered the house, a mixture of servants hurried forward to divest the party of their outside coats and gloves. The speed and efficiency with which it was done astounded the sisters; if they blinked Jane was sure they would have missed it.

To Bingley, watching his good friend limp around obviously quite painfully was terrible. To see him look well once again was a blessing after seeing him almost die. Yet the Darcy confidence he had always aspired to was missing. His whole posture had changed, no longer was he the straight backed, confident walking, mean looking man he had once been. The way he leaned slightly to one side, taking the weight off his quite badly injured leg caused him to look very different. Bingley hoped it was not for an extended duration.

Darcy showed his guests into one of the many sitting rooms Pemberley had. It was his favourite room aside from his study of course. His mother had chosen the décor and he was loathe to change it. Anything that resembled his mother's taste was preserved at all costs.

The four sat down together as the tea was brought in. Maids scurried about the room as Darcy asked how their journey had been. They had spent the night at Huntingdon and set off at first light as was the usual way to get to Derbyshire from London . Of course, starting from Hertfordshire cut out part of the journey making is slightly shorter. They were all glad that the weather had held long enough to arrive.

It was in the air; snow was coming and as usual, would fall in droves leaving them trapped in their own world. It was Darcy that mentioned this fact. Having lived in the harsh winter conditions of the North all his life, he knew that it was indeed sheer luck that got them here in time. Now Jane looked truly worried, she had never been snowed in before and the thought of being cut off weighed greatly on her mind. It was this look that again caused Darcy to laugh, this time he was joined by Bingley and Lizzy.

"I take it you do not get much snow in Hertfordshire. Never mind, once you have spent a winter here, you shall never want to see it again. Or you could go the opposite way and end up like me, I miss the snow when I am in London ." He looked at Elizabeth . "I am sure that you shall enjoy it Miss Elizabeth. You seem to enjoy the outside as indeed do I." She smiled at him and glanced over to Jane and Bingley.

"I say Darce, without you, Meryton had been quite dull. No mention of Mr Darcy and his ten thousand a year."

Darcy almost spat out his tea so close to laughing was he. In fact, as soon as he had swallowed he did laugh. Quite heartily in fact. To Lizzy this was normal behaviour when in the company of close friends. To Jane, to say she was shocked would be an understatement.

"I cannot comment on Meryton society but at Longbourn I do believe I heard your name mentioned no less that one hundred times a day." Lizzy joked with Darcy, seeing him laugh was such a good thing.

"Indeed. I am shocked indeed. To have made such an impression on such a confined and unvarying society I must have committed some terrible act."

The words spoken during the first month of their acquaintance seemed humorous now. The humility Elizabeth had gone through to dissuade her mother of making a spectacle of herself seemed so long ago. So much had occurred during the past year. It was these thoughts that plagued all four suddenly. The conversation slowed down as they became entrenched in their memories.

Bingley was the one who broke the silence. Seeing the way Darcy looked at Elizabeth alerted him to the fact that the two needed to talk. Looking at Jane, he could see how uncomfortable she was. Lizzy may be able to adapt to Darcy's real personality but to Jane it was unnerving. He had an idea that would solve both problems.

"Jane, would you like to see some of the house. I am sure Darcy would not mind my showing you around. Would you Darce?" He looked hopefully towards his friend.

"Why of course not. You should know your way well enough by now Bingley, you have virtually lived here since I met you."

"Jane?"

Bingley stood and offered Jane his hand? She was unsure. On one hand she would like to leave the room, on the other she did not want to leave Lizzy on her own. After a few moments, she chose the former as a priority. Taking his proffered hand, she stood and faced Bingley. Darcy stood as well as Jane and Bingley walked arm in arm from the room leaving him with Lizzy.

As soon as the door closed, Lizzy stood and rushed across to Darcy. Her arms were about his neck and his about her waist clinging to each other in a fierce embrace. Her feet barely touched the ground as he murmured words of love in her ear.

"I have missed you so much Liz."

"And I you."

They knew not how long they stood like that; just holding each other. He stroked her back gently, burying his face in her neck, breathing in her scent, reassuring himself that she was in fact here in his arms. She did the same; it was all like a dream. Her nights had been tortured with scenes of their reunion only to wake up with a false hope. No, he was real.

Finally they separated, only as far as to look at each other though. He took her hands in his and rested his forehead against hers. How she wanted to cry, the pressure and worry of the past weeks had steadily grown and now...now she just wanted to break down in his arms. She needed to be strong however. They both needed to stay intact, just for now.

He kissed her forehead gently and pulled away. She noticed that his hair had grown, obscuring the scar that dominated the skin by his right eye and forehead. The illness of weeks back had taken its toll on William making his face thinner. Black circles still surrounded his beautiful eyes; she could tell he had barely slept these past days. Looking at him carefully, she could see his eyes had almost become as alive as they once had been yet there was still something missing. The questioning would begin.

"Well, you certainly look much better than when I first saw you after your accident."

"Ha, you obviously think I look worse than when you last saw me then. Yes, no wonder. Mrs Reynolds has been saying so everyday since I arrived home."

"Why is it no wonder?"

"My health has taken a severe hammering this past two months. I arrived back here and I became ill once again. Nothing so serious that time. Do not worry Elizabeth , you are here now and all will be well."

"What do you mean not to worry? How could I not? I take my part time job as nurse to Fitzwilliam Darcy very seriously I shall have you know." Her attempt to lighten the almost foreboding atmosphere worked as he smiled and looked away.

"And your leg sir? I can see that is improved-"

"Not by a great deal I fear but I shall not talk about that now. I would like to spend some time with my fiancé, not my keeper."

"I know but..."

"No buts. Come with me, I have something for you."

He smiled and took her hand. Leading her from the room, they slowly made their way to what appeared to be his study. As he opened the door, she could tell that this was where he spent most of his days. Books were littered around on small tables next to well worn leather chairs. The desk that dominated the room was covered with paperwork and newspapers. It was strange to see this side of him. On the outward appearance he seemed so orderly yet when working, he was highly disorganised. It made her laugh to see him so chaotic.

"What is it that amuses you so?" He turned to face her.

"You sir. I was under the impression that you were so tidy and yet..." She gestured towards the desk and laughed once again.

"I see, well you were wrong. There are still some aspects of me that you do not know it seems. We shall have to remedy that I think." He leaned towards her and kissed her lips so softly.

Standing up straight once again, he made his way to the large oak desk and collected something from one of the drawers. Walking back to where she still stood, by the window, he halted right in front of her. The place where his lips met hers still had the most pleasant tingle and he was only too happy to oblige once more.

Tipping her chin up to face him with his fingertips, he kissed her again. It was slower this time, taking the time to reacquaint himself with her lips. Her hands rested on his chest as his arms wound their way around her back. In no time the kiss had deepened and her hands snaked up about his neck pulling him closer to her. His tongue caressed every corner of her mouth; she kissed him back with an urgency built up over three weeks of separation.

Finally they broke apart, breathless. Resting his head against hers once more, he reached up and stroked her cheek with his hand. Looking deep into her eyes, he told her he loved her. Slowly they becalmed themselves so as to speak. He had to think what he was doing before such a wonderful diversion had been initiated.

"Ah yes, I do believe I was going to give you something."

He took her left hand in his and pulled a ring out of his waistcoat pocket. Slowly, he slid it onto her finger.

"This was my mothers, and hers before. This signifies that you are mine and mine alone. And that in turn I belong to you. There, we are now officially engaged."

Elizabeth was awe-struck. Never had she seen such a beautiful engagement ring. Small diamonds lay around the most dazzling sapphire set together. The delicate gold band encircled her finger and encased the stones. She did not know what to say, he held her hand still and stroked her knuckles with his thumb.

"Am I to understand that the lady approves?"

All she could do was nod, slowly, she looked up at him. He was so handsome, even with the signs of illness still fading. Tears prickled at the corners of her eyes. How had she come to love this man so much when at the start of the year she did not want to ever see him again? Even more of a question was what had she done to deserve such a wonderful man? It was too much. Her tears slipped down her cheeks as she smiled at him. He carefully wiped her tears away with the back of his finger.

"It is so beautiful William. Thank-you."

Without warning, she embraced him tightly. Responding to her he held her tightly against him. Kissing the top of her head gently, Darcy whispered small endearments to her. Neither ever wanting to let go of the other.

Dinner that night was a very informal affair. Both couples were seated next to each other. Darcy took his usual place at the head of the table with Lizzy to his right. Bingley sat to his left and Jane sat with her fiancé. It amused Bingley to see his best friend have the same love-struck expression he himself usually bore. More astounding was that it was reflected in Lizzy's countenance. It was true; they were very much in love with each other.

It was Jane that first noticed the ring on her sister's finger. In fact it was when Darcy took his fiancé's hand that she saw it glittering in the candlelight. A smile spread over her serene features as she caught Lizzy's eye. Both sisters smiled and before long Darcy joined in. Bingley was left out not knowing what all this strange smiling was about. Darcy put him out of his misery.

"Come now Bingley, can you not guess what has occasioned this bout of merriment?" Bingley shook his head in wonder; Darcy really did have to point it out to him.

"Elizabeth and I are to be married."

As this information slowly worked its way into Bingley's mind, Jane stood and embraced her sister and of course, Mr Darcy. Suddenly his brain processed this new information and he too rose and shook hands with Darcy, kissing his soon to be sister's hand. As they all sat down once more, a playful banter commenced and continued over the course of the meal.

"So Darce, we are to be brothers after all. I thought all hopes of that were extinguished after about five minutes of observing you with Caroline." He laughed as did Darcy.

"Yes, I shall have the unlucky fortune to be related to you. How shall I bear it all?"

Jane had of course never seen Darcy act this way. His whole personality had changed, for the better naturally. He was at ease with his surroundings, laughing and joking with his guests. Lizzy was right, he was a most amiable gentleman after all. He kept a possessive hold of her sister's hand between courses and even then it was replaced by some other form of contact during each dish. His eyes were alive when they beheld Elizabeth . There was definitely an aura of happiness about them, Jane only wished that she and Charles too looked so radiant together.

Soon, dinner was over and all four retired to the music room. To Darcy this was a most pleasant place to be. It held some bitter memories when he thought of his sister spending her days in here. Thoughts like that were rapi