25. Chapter 25

Previously...

The Darcys pay a visit to the Gardiners' home in Cheapside. Elizabeth and Darcy discuss Jane and Bingley's engagement and what makes a good relationship. Both notice the chemistry between them, but neither admits it – to anyone else. The Darcys leave with the understanding that the Gardiners and Elizabeth will be visiting Darcy House the next day, with hopes to take a walk if the weather permits. Richard visits Darcy House for dinner and invites himself along for the following day's events.

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XXV.

The morning of the twenty-third of December was grey and clouded. Not ideal, but not too wet for walking, I hope, Elizabeth thought as she glanced out her small window while waiting for her aunt to help finish her hair. Though she would deny it to any that asked, Lizzy had been eager for the day to begin. Despite her concerns for the weather, she could not contain her energy and she fought to keep her body seated in her chair. As Margaret Gardiner entered, she smiled at her niece; she could see the symptoms for what they were as plain as day. Wisely though, she made no comment as she helped Lizzy finish her coiffure. Elizabeth's enthusiasm seemed contagious and the four Gardiner children were particularly energetic in the carriage on the way to Darcy House.

"D'you think that Mr. and Miss Darcy will have any good games to play?"

"They're very rich, so I bet they'll have loads of games!"

"James, it is not polite to discuss someone's wealth. A proper gentleman or lady is appreciative of the invitation of a friend, regardless of the entertainment associated with the visit. It was very kind of Mr. and Miss Darcy to invite us to visit them; I expect all of you to be on your best behaviour today and show respect for our host and hostess."

All four children were properly chastened for a full minute, before the youngest offered, "I hope dey have battledores*."

Mrs. Gardiner sighed quietly and caught her niece's eye, who was suppressing indulgent laughter.

ooOoo

At Darcy House over breakfast, it seemed Richard and Georgiana were equally affected with the enthusiasm Elizabeth and the Gardiner children were experiencing. Darcy, however, appeared quite the opposite. His face was rather pale and his eyes showed signs of strain. Neither did he participate with any vigour in their conversations.

Georgiana noticed, "Brother, you seem tired. Did you sleep poorly?"

Darcy sighed slightly, "I was up late, but do not worry yourself; I am well."

This did not entirely satisfy Georgiana, but as she could see no way to remedy the situation, apart from cancelling the visit with Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner, she allowed the matter to pass. Nonetheless, she feared that Fitzwilliam would not make a positive impression on Miss Bennet in this state.

When the Gardiners' coach arrived some time later, Georgiana took note of the eagerness in her cousin's steps and became concerned. Why should Richard be so quick to greet their party? Might he have designs on Miss Bennet? Oh dear!

Darcy, too, observed his cousin's movements, but determined that he would do well not to allow Richard to see any reaction. He had too many years of experience with Richard's tactics to give in this early in the day. However, her brother's lack of response to their cousin only further confirmed Georgiana's fears.

Georgiana called, "Richard! Do wait for Fitzwilliam and I!"

Her tone was much sharper than either gentleman was accustomed to from little Georgiana and it pulled both men up short. Even had she requested – rather than commanded – his escort, Richard would have conceded, but with such a tone, he was quite at a loss to respond. His confusion was plain on his face and a small part of Georgiana was secretly pleased with this new-found power. She smiled sweetly as she took his arm and motioned for Fitzwilliam to pass them into the hallway.

Mrs. Gardiner entered the house with her eldest two children at her side, while Elizabeth entered behind them, holding Isabella's hand and with Henry in her arms. Darcy felt winded at the sight of her; she was lovely with her cheeks pink from the cold and the small boy clutched around her neck. She smiled apologetically when she saw his gaze – for what he could not fathom – and quietly instructed the boy that he must stand rather than be held. Darcy was unsure if he was pleased or disappointed by the change – there was something compelling about her holding the child – but he had not the time to contemplate the matter as introductions were necessary.

He stepped forward, cleared his throat slightly, and greeted each with small bows, "Mrs. Gardiner, Miss Bennet, Master Gardiner, Miss Gardiner, Miss Isabella, and Master Henry, welcome to my home."

Each inclined their head, bowed, or curtsied at his greeting.

"May I introduce you to my cousin, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam?" And here, he gestured to Richard, who stepped forward with a formal bow.

Mrs. Gardiner offered a small smile and replied, "A pleasure, Colonel." Lizzy merely curtsied and smiled. The Gardiner children glanced to their mother and cousin, seeking guidance as to an appropriate reaction to the stranger, and seeing no signs of danger from either, bowed or curtsied in return as well.

Elizabeth did not give much attention to Colonel Fitzwilliam as she was scrutinizing Darcy's expression: Displeased, perhaps? She noticed his face appeared drawn and there was evidence of a lack of a restful night underneath his eyes. But his eyes were as focused and observant as ever, so she concluded he was most likely merely tired, before reminding herself that his health was not her concern.

Georgiana noticed the direction of Elizabeth's gaze and was pleased. She came forward and reclaimed her cousin's arm, announcing, "Shall we be off for the Park?"

With that reminder of the exciting events for the day, the children were instantly eager to set off and began to bounce and beg. Mrs. Gardiner was about to remind them of their manners, but Mr. Darcy smiled indulgently at their pleas and agreed, "Certainly, we would not wish to keep the young lads and ladies from their fun. It is but a short walk and," he spoke to the children directly, "if you are well-behaved, we can visit the lake." This elicited noises of glee from all but James, who seemed pleased at the prospect, but wished to show himself as more mature than his younger siblings. Darcy nodded at him and James felt a surge of pride at the gentleman's notice and approval.

Once outside in the winter air, which though cold was also cleaner than London's air during other seasons, Darcy breathed in deeply and felt invigorated. It was true he had not slept particularly well, as he had spent several hours contemplating his cousin's plans and motives before falling into a fitful sleep, only to be aroused from sleep by unpleasant dreams a full two hours earlier than he had intended. He had utilised the time to its best advantage, though, and was hopeful that his schedule would now be clear through the new year, barring any emergencies that might arise. He was the last out the door, wishing to give instructions to the housekeeper for a carriage and some refreshments to be brought to the Park in a couple hours; he expected the children would be rather hungry and tired by then.

He noticed that Georgiana was still clutching Richard's arm – rather firmly, if he was not mistaken – and they were walking alongside Mrs. Gardiner, who was now carrying Henry. Elizabeth and the other three children were somewhat behind them as the walkway was not wide enough to accommodate such a large group.

Darcy seized the opportunity with zeal. With a few quickened steps, he was upon Elizabeth and her young companions.

"Ah, Miss Bennet, may I join your walking party?"

Elizabeth glanced behind her and with a coy smile replied, "As you are our host, sir, it seems it would be highly improper to refuse."

Darcy smiled, "I would never wish to impose on a lady. If it would be inconvenient for you, I shall excuse you from any obligations –"

Lizzy laughed, interrupting Darcy, much to his pleasure. "Very well, you have caught me. I am only teasing." And with that, she moved to the side slightly, leaving just enough room for Darcy to walk alongside her. Indeed, she had not intended to leave so little room that their sleeves were brushing as they walked, but the walkway was not overlarge and she was still holding Isabella's hand on her other side.

Darcy was quite pleased with this circumstance, but did not feel bold enough to offer his arm. Perhaps once we are on the rougher terrain of the Park?

They walked in silence for a few more steps before Elizabeth inquired, "Oh dear, I hope I have not teased you into silence?"

Now it was Darcy's turn to laugh, "Hardly, madam. I was merely considering our path once we reach the Park."

"Ah, I see. Well, I could not wish to deter our navigator. Certainly, the children would never forgive me if I kept us from the lake."

"Luckily for you, I am quite capable of managing the two tasks at once."

"Oh? So I am a task now?" Elizabeth asked with an arch of her brow.

Darcy was unsure if she was offended or teasing; the fire in her eyes could be due to either. "No! Certainly not, I beg your pardon for my poor choice of –" At her smile, he stopped.

"Surely you can tell the difference by now, sir?"

Darcy sighed in frustration at his foolishness, "Apparently I am a slow pupil. My apologies."

Elizabeth feared she had pushed his patience too far. "No, I am sorry. I can sometimes take my games too far." After a moment, she added in a more serious tone, her expression clouded, "And I am sure you are not accustomed to being spoken to in such an impertinent manner."

Darcy did not care for her self-deprecation. His reply was sincere and serious: "Indeed, such is my loss and all the more reason I beg your patience with my slow progress."

He did not look at her while he spoke, but his words caused a flush through Elizabeth's skin as though he had stroked a finger from her temple to her collarbone. She could do naught but nod and offered a meek, "As you wish, sir."

Darcy felt a change of subject would be advisable and inquired if Elizabeth or the children had ever been to Hyde Park. This topic kept them comfortably engaged for the next couple minutes until they joined their party at the gates of the Park. Georgiana and the others had stopped to await the rest, but once they were all together, looked to her brother to direct their path.

Darcy offered to the group, "Miss Bennet tells me that this is your first visit to Hyde Park, so any path will be new. As long as we continue on this path inward, we will arrive at The Serpentine soon."

The children were eager to set off and did not allow time for any discussion of their course but took off running, following Darcy's directions. Even Henry, who had not wished to be apart from his mother or Lizzy for too long, now pushed away from Mrs. Gardiner so that he might chase after his siblings.

His departure elicited a laugh from Richard, who appreciated enthusiasm in any form. "Well, let us follow! We would not wish to fall behind."

Georgiana, again taking her cousin's arm, agreed, "Yes indeed! Richard, would you be so kind as to help Mrs. Gardiner and I both? With the cold, the paths have been slippery. Fitzwilliam will help Miss Bennet; will you not?" She glanced to her brother and friend, both seemed uncomfortable, but he could not refuse such a request politely.

"Of course," he offered his arm to Lizzy, "Miss Bennet? I would not wish for you to injure yourself."

Elizabeth was equally uncomfortable at Georgiana's prompting, but also did not wish to be rude. "Of course," she echoed Darcy, "thank you."

"Wonderful!" cried Georgiana, who then nearly dragged Richard and Mrs. Gardiner away with her along the path.

After a moment, Darcy and Elizabeth followed in silence, each feeling foolish but unable to recover their easy banter. Each held their frames rigid, barely touching the other as they moved.

Several steps in, Elizabeth stopped, which required Darcy to do the same. "Miss Bennet?" he inquired.

"I am well," she assured. She removed her hand from his arm and Darcy's heart sank. "It is only I feel uncomfortable that you should be forced to escort me. I can assure you that I am a capable walker, despite some puddles or sleet on the ground. You need not feel responsible for my safety."

Darcy objected, "I do not feel forced. And I would be quite concerned should you be injured and feel very much responsible for failing to prevent such a thing." But then considering the matter further, he offered, "But if you do not wish my arm, I would by no means wish to force myself upon you."

Strangely, Elizabeth began laughing – have I misunderstood her teasing yet again? Her manner seemed hardly the same as earlier.

"I do apologise, Mr. Darcy, I am not laughing at you, but I feel we must be doomed to continuously repeat ourselves with one another."

"Forgive me, but I do not have the pleasure of understanding you. How are we repeating ourselves?"

Elizabeth blushed slightly, but persevered, "This is the second time today you have assured me of your promise not to force yourself upon me." She was suddenly acutely aware of other connotations to her words and flushed more fully across her cheeks. "Your company, that is," she corrected hastily.

Darcy, at a loss for how to respond, simply offered, "I suppose you are correct." Then, without thinking, added, "Although perhaps it is only this outing. It seems Georgiana felt rather inclined to play matchmaker –" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, he froze. It seemed Lizzy did as well.

He tried to repair the situation, "I – " but just then Sarah and Isabella ran over to them.

"Cousin Lizzy! Hide us, James is going to catch us!"

Elizabeth glanced quickly at Darcy, whose mouth was still slightly open, and then put on a smile for her cousins. "Oh but Sarah, surely James will know I am hiding you! I do not think this plan will work. What if Mr. Darcy and I walk with you and protect you?"

"Ooo, thank you Lizzy!" Isabella cried as she grabbed her cousin's hand.

Sarah looked between Mr. Darcy and her cousin and then followed her sister's lead and took Elizabeth's other hand. The three of them started off, but when Lizzy noticed Mr. Darcy had not followed, she called, "Mr. Darcy, we have damsels in distress; we are in need of a knight to protect us."

Her slight smile called to him as much as her words, and despite his mortification moments ago, he felt powerless to refuse anything she asked of him; he moved to catch them up. "Of course; lead the way, My Ladies."

He offered a slight bow as he said it and Elizabeth gave him an exquisite smile for his support.

As Darcy had said, the lake was indeed quite close. Furthermore, it seemed that once the boys had arrived, they had promptly forgotten any intentions of chasing their sisters in favour of imaginary voyages on the sea and military battles against the French. The girls, never ones to be left out, immediately ran off to join their brothers, leaving Darcy and Elizabeth to join the other adults who had already arrived at The Serpentine**.

To the complete dismay of the Darcy siblings, Richard spotted their arrival first and announced loudly, "Darcy, there you are! You have been keeping Miss Bennet all to yourself, old man! Miss Bennet, my cousin cannot say anything but your name comes up. You have turned our little Georgiana into quite the gabster! I must know your secret."

Lizzy laughed and modestly suggested, "Oh, I think you may be exaggerating, sir. But I do enjoy Miss Darcy's company very much and am pleased she has tolerated so much of mine."

"Nonsense, Miss Bennet!" Georgiana defended her.

Richard laughed and said to Darcy, "I see what you mean, Darce, Miss Bennet does seem to bring out another side of our Little One."

Georgiana blushed and protested, "Richard, stop. Miss Bennet will never agree to visit me again if you persist with these mortifying observations!"

"Very well, Georgiana," Richard agreed, "I will stop embarrassing you. But I would like to get to meet Miss Bennet properly; we have not spoken more than two words all day! Miss Bennet, I say again: I must know your secret. Are you a sorceress?"

Lizzy laughed as Georgiana gasped, "Richard!"

Colonel Fitzwilliam chuckled at his cousin's reaction and was pleased to see that Miss Elizabeth Bennet was not so delicate of her sensibilities as to be insulted by his jest; yes, she might be just what Darce has been needing! Of course, must be sure she is not simply seeking a comfortable position.

"Alright, alright, Little One, settle down. Miss Bennet knows I am only teasing." And then, turning to Elizabeth, "I do wonder, though, how you happened to meet my cousin?"

Briefly, Elizabeth glanced to Darcy, wondering how much he would have told his sister and cousin, but then she realised he must mean Miss Darcy. "Actually, we happened upon each other at Mr. Birchall's shop. I am sure you know that I became acquainted with Mr. Darcy when he visited with Mr. Bingley in Hertfordshire, and he was kind enough to introduce Miss Darcy and I when we all met in the shop here. I feel very fortunate for such a lovely and sweet friend. In many ways, she reminds me of my sister, Jane."

Georgiana blushed and smiled at the praise and Darcy, despite his extreme discomfort at Richard's questioning of Elizabeth, recalled all the reasons he was so besotted by her! See how, with so little effort, she brings so much joy to Gigi! Oh but how I wish she would speak of me – he stopped the thought abruptly; it was painful to even contemplate such a thing. He was pulled back by Richard's voice.

"Yes, yes, she is a delight. But I wish to hear of Darcy in Hertfordshire! It is so unlike him to take the trouble to make new acquaintances when in unfamiliar company. How did this happen?"

Darcy attempted to interject, "Richard, really –" but Elizabeth cut in, "Actually, I am afraid I must admit I forced myself into his company." She sent a sly smirk toward Darcy and enjoyed his rather dumbfounded expression.

Richard was near to salivating in his excitement and even Georgiana seemed intrigued, "Do continue!" Richard prompted.

Lizzy laughed, "Well now, it was not so salacious as you two seem to think! My sister, Jane, became ill while visiting Netherfield. I went to see her and Mr. Bingley would not hear of my returning home while she needed me, so I stayed to care for her. While there, Mr. Darcy and I were in shared company for meals and evening activities, so naturally we became acquainted. It seems we also share an appreciation for walking."

Without intending to do so, Darcy smiled at the memories; their morning walk was a particular favourite.

Observing Darcy's reaction, Richard was simultaneously impressed and amused. "Well then, it seems you have a talent for bringing out the best qualities in those around you."

Elizabeth looked down at the compliment, embarrassed, so it was her aunt who responded, "Too true, Colonel. Elizabeth has always had a talent for making those in her company feel comfortable. Sarah, my eldest daughter does not warm easily and has been prone to nervousness, but if Elizabeth is there, Sarah is bright as sunshine. And the tenants at Longbourn! I imagine they must be missing you, Lizzy."

Elizabeth disagreed, "Aunt, you exaggerate! They have Jane and Mama; I do not do anything particularly special."

"You do yourself a disservice, Miss Bennet. I am sure that they are missing you, even though, of course, your mother and sister are most certainly caring for the tenants' needs in your absence." Georgiana argued.

Elizabeth accepted as gracefully as she was able: "You are too kind."

Darcy enjoyed the way her head dipped as she acknowledged their praise; he wanted to place a kiss on her bowed head. His heart thumped hard within his chest at the thought, but a sudden noise distracted them all.

They soon came to realise it was a pained shriek from Isabella. Elizabeth was the first to find her wits and she began to run toward the children, who were near the water's edge. Darcy and Fitzwilliam were next and followed closely behind. Somewhere in the back of their minds, each man was surprised and impressed by the speed Elizabeth had achieved, despite the slick ground and her dress.

Entirely unconcerned for her garments in that moment, Lizzy knelt on the cold, wet ground to attend to Isabella, who was crying profusely.

"Shh, dear, shh," soothed Elizabeth, "Where does it hurt?"

The other children were speaking over each other attempting to give her the answers, but Elizabeth silenced them with a single finger raised. Mrs. Gardiner and Miss Darcy had arrived, but Mrs. Gardiner made no move to join Lizzy; she knew there was no need.

"Izzy-bell," Elizabeth cooed, "come, show me what hurts."

Still sniffling and making little hiccoughing noises, Isabella pointed to her left ankle and managed, "I – I slipped," before starting to cry again.

Elizabeth gathered the small girl to her and soothed, "There, there. I have you and we can get you fixed up in no time."

Darcy was forcefully reminded of his own slips as a child. His mother had comforted him much the same way; he missed her so powerfully at times it was a palpable ache. In that moment, watching Elizabeth care for her cousin, he could think of nothing but how deeply he wished this for his own children someday. I must have her. It cannot be anyone else. He was so resolved to his course that he nearly forgot about the rest of the party; he placed his hand on her shoulder and she turned sharply in surprise.

He hesitated, recalling himself and changed tactics. Clearing his throat and removing his hand, he offered, "Forgive me, Miss Bennet, perhaps I might be of assistance? I could carry her?"

Elizabeth had not thought through her actions before running and then soiling her clothing in the company of two gentlemen and in a public park; she had thought only of her young cousin. Well, what is done is done, she thought and then glancing down at herself replied, "That is very kind of you, Mr. Darcy, but the ground is quite wet and I am afraid Isabella's clothing has become rather covered in mud."

She looked so apologetic and Darcy simply could not reconcile her response. Surprising her, he glanced to his sister and smiled. "Georgiana was not always such the lady. I have had my share of caring for her twisted ankles and carrying her inside in muddied clothes. I insist, Miss Bennet."

The force of his gaze rendered her speechless; she feared she may fail to continue breathing if held under his spell much longer. She nodded and his eyes released her. She allowed herself a quick moment before turned back to Isabella. "Izzy, Mr. Darcy is going to carry you back –" she stopped, thinking perhaps the walk was too long, "Sir, ought we send a servant back to bring my uncle's carriage?"

Darcy shook his head, "No need. I have a carriage awaiting us near the Park's entrance. I had thought to have refreshments, but now it seems it will have another purpose." His smile was utterly disarming; she could not think to reply.

Mrs. Gardiner stepped in: "Thank you, Mr. Darcy. Your generosity goes well beyond the bounds of hospitality."

Darcy waved off the compliment, "No, no, it is my privilege to help Lady Isabella." He glanced to Isabella as he recalled their game and he was gratified to see her giggle; if he was not much mistaken, he thought perhaps her cousin had also smiled.

"Now," he commanded, "we cannot leave you sitting here! You will catch your death from the cold. Let us be off." With that, he bent down and lifted the little girl from Elizabeth's arms. He was pleased to have felt the brush of a tendril of her hair on the side of his face, but it was soon forgotten to irrational jealousy when his cousin offered the owner of the tendril his assistance in righting herself.

Elizabeth thanked the Colonel for his help, but was still rather ashamed to be seen in such a state and by Mr. Darcy at that! At this rate, he will begin to think I routinely cover my clothes in mud! First Netherfield and now here! She kept her eyes averted and walked apart from the other ladies so as to not mess their garments.

The return walk was spent with all except Darcy and Lizzy in pleasant conversation. When they reached the carriage, Darcy insisted that Elizabeth join Isabella in the carriage under the blanket so that neither would catch a cold. Lizzy wondered at this attention, but could not settle on a clear reason for it. The other ladies and children – except James, it seemed – joined Lizzy and Isabella for the short ride back to Darcy House.

Once back, Georgiana stepped in, directing the staff to carry Isabella inside and find clean, dry outer clothing for both Isabella and Elizabeth. Elizabeth tried to protest, but Georgiana would hear none of it. When Aunt Gardiner sided with Miss Darcy, Lizzy knew it was pointless to argue further.

Because of the time needed to clean up and re-dress, Elizabeth barely saw Darcy again and that was as she was leaving. His eyes were fixed on her throughout the goodbyes and she wondered as to what he thought of her appearance in a dress from Georgiana's abigail. She was terribly self-conscious and kept her eyes averted from her hosts as she thanked them for their hospitality and then fled as quickly as she could.

In the carriage returning to Gracechurch Street, the children spoke animatedly about their visit, the park, and the Darcy's. James, in particular, was eager to share how he was allowed to walk back with the gentlemen rather than ride with the children. None of the children took notice of their cousin's distraction. Aunt Margaret, on the other hand, did notice, but chose to wait until a more suitable time to question her niece. Still, Margaret considered, today certainly confirmed my suspicions. I only hope that Lizzy was not too stubborn to see it as well!

ooOoo

Back at Darcy House, Darcy was lost in his thoughts of Lizzy for the remainder of the day and well into the evening. He was determined now that – family pressures be damned – Miss Elizabeth Bennet would be his wife.

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* Battledores are the racquets (or racquet-like in any case) in the game Battledore and Shuttlecock, which is an early game similar to Badminton. Jane Austen herself is known to have played it with her own nephews. More information about this at .uk (slash) battledore-and-shuttlecock

** The Serpentine is the name of the lake inside of Hyde Park

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Also, little PSA for those who enjoy roleplaying games and/or MMOs. If you like Jane Austen AND online roleplaying games, there's a kickstarter project that's currently seeking funding. It's called "Ever, Jane" and you can find it on the kickstarter website.

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A/N: I do know it has been a long wait (the longest yet) and I am so grateful to each and every one of you for your patience! All I can say is that I struggle to make time in RL to write, but I am trying! Your continued support means SO much to me so I hope this chapter was worth your wait.

I'm sorry to be a broken record, but your support keeps me going and I want to be sure you all know how much you are valued! Please know that I appreciate every one of you who reads, reviews, follows, and favorites! The alerts in my inbox from you all bring me joy beyond words!