17. Chapter 17

Chapter 16

Darcy reluctantly bid farewell to Elizabeth in front of Darcy House a short while later, smiling warmly at her before exiting the Gardiners carriage, followed closely by his sister. At his urging, his sister invited Elizabeth and her sister to tea the next day, so he was content that he would see her then. He entered his study, sitting down behind his desk. He took the time to reflect on this momentous day, the day Elizabeth agreed to a courtship. He leaned back, unable to prevent a smile from suffusing his face. He closed his eyes and sighed in contentment; calculating how soon he could make her his. Autumn would be a good time to be married, or maybe during the winter; his parents had married in November. But for now, he wanted to take his time and allow Elizabeth plenty of time to know him and more importantly to trust him completely. He suspected that other than Mr Gardiner, Elizabeth did not have many strong, protective males in her life.

Darcy felt his anger rise at the thought of Elizabeth's father. What kind of man allowed his own daughter to be treated so callously by her mother? How could he stand by and watch without doing anything? Although he had never met Mr Bennet, he could not respect a man who obviously had no control over his household. He blamed Mr Bennet for the unhappiness of his wife. He did not know the particulars of their situation, but the Master of the House was responsible for the well being and protection of those under his care. It was obvious to Darcy that Mr Bennet had failed spectacularly in that regard.

He could forgive Mr Bennet for his apathy towards his family if not for the toll it had taken on Elizabeth's self confidence and lack of self worth. He blamed Mr Bennet as much as his wife. He leaned forward, running his hands through his hair. Knowing what Elizabeth had to endure on a daily basis from a bitter mother and apathetic father, she was truly a remarkable woman. She did not allow her self doubt to influence how she treated others. Even in the short time he had known her he found her to be kind, loyal, generous, intelligent, witty, and sincere. There was nothing false about her. In a world that valued status, wealth, and connections, it was difficult to meet persons who were truly genuine.

Because of his mother's dream of Elizabeth, he had been spared moving in high society and being influenced by society's view of the perfect woman; a combination of birth, connections and wealth. He scoffed. What absolute rubbish! The ton cared little for the state of a person's character, mind or heart; of which Elizabeth had in abundance. It put him in mind of the scripture of casting pearls before swine. Elizabeth was a rare pearl, easily overlooked amidst the filth of London society. And she was His.

Richard entered Darcy's sanctuary without ceremony, coming to a stop in front of his cousin. Darcy was leaning back in his chair with his eyes closed, a small smile on his face. With a smirk, Richard removed his watch to note the amount of time that passed before his lovesick cousin was aware of his presence.

After a full three minutes, Richard snapped his watch shut and said drolly, "Well, you are either asleep and having a very good dream, or you are deliberately ignoring me."

Darcy opened his eyes and smirked at his cousin. "Neither, I was waiting to see how long you would stand there before saying something." Darcy pointed a finger at his cousin, "You despise silence as much as I relish it."

Richard sat across from Darcy, leaning back comfortably. "That is not true. I can stand the silence. In fact I find that I prefer it when in the company of certain people who shall remain nameless." Richard sat up suddenly and exclaimed, "Why am I surrounded by mindless individuals? It makes me wonder if they even listen to themselves as they spout such nonsense. Because I am convinced if they did they would never speak again from mortification."

Darcy stared at Richard, perplexed. He was unusually agitated. "Something troubling you, Richard?"

"What? No, of course not." Richard stood up and began pacing, his expression dark.

Darcy couldn't repress his laughter. His cousin's behavior was so reminiscent of his own recent behavior, but six days ago? He ran a hand through his hair. Could his life have changed so dramatically in such a short time? He smiled and shook his head in wonder. Amazing what a woman could do for a man's outlook on life. He looked up to see Richard scowling at him. He sat up in surprise. "What?"

"Could you refrain from laughing at me? I am having a bit of a personal crisis and I need to think."

Darcy immediately sobered. "Of course, Richard. What personal crisis are you referring to?"

Richard sat down with a slight huff. Without preamble, he said, "I may be sent back to the Iberian Peninsula." (1)

"What? When? Why?" Darcy was astounded. The family had been so relieved when Richard had been posted at the War Office after spending close to two years on the continent, before receiving his new assignment. Darcy had understood that it was permanent unless Richard requested a transfer.

Richard sighed. "There is talk that the Americas will declare war. (2) If that happens, they will need every able bodied soldier. We can't fight a war on two fronts, not without...sacrifices. I may be sent back."

"But I thought that it was your choice. They need men at the War Office. Why can't they send someone else?"

Richard said in exasperation, "They need experienced soldiers, Darcy. Leaders, not new recruits who have never seen war."

Darcy looked searchingly at his cousin. Quietly he asked, "Are you thinking of selling out?"

Richard was silent for so long, Darcy thought he would not answer his question. Finally, after some time, Richard simply said, "I don't know."

Darcy was silent, waiting for his cousin to speak. He knew Richard had more to say or he would not have sought him out. Although, Darcy had offered to give Richard one of his lesser estates, he knew that he would never take him up on it. Richard was a man of action. He was born to be a soldier, a leader of men; not a gentleman farmer. He was never one to make safe choices, but he always made the right ones. Darcy did not know a better or more honorable man than his cousin.

Richard stood and began pacing again slowly with his head down, a deep contemplative expression on his face. He stopped and looked at Darcy, his face resolute. "Darcy, I love being a soldier. I am honored to serve King and country, but lately I've found myself wanting something more. And I don't know how to reconcile what I have with what I want."

Darcy frowned. "Why do you need to choose one over the other? Is this a choice between remaining in the army and selling out?"

Richard shook his head, "No, it is a decision of remaining in the army and...settling down."

Darcy was shocked. Of all the things he thought Richard would say, that was the very last. Richard was a confirmed bachelor and had been consistently vocal about not marrying. "What has changed your mind?"

Richard stared at Darcy and with a slight smile, said, "you."

Darcy raised his brows. "Me? What do you mean?"

Richard rolled his eyes. "What do I mean? Darcy, you are deliriously happy. All because of a woman."

Darcy smiled and shook his head, "not just any woman, but the right woman."

Richard nodded. "I have never considered marrying. Never. I find that I am rather jealous. I wish for that same type of connection you have with Miss Elizabeth, it is..." Richard frowned, "it is a wondrous thing and I find that I want that as well."

"But why do you have to choose? You can still marry and stay in the army."

Richard shook his head angrily. "No. Never. I promised myself I would never be that selfish. I have seen too many soldiers, too many friends die. Soldiers with wives, families. Do you have any idea how those families live after their husbands and fathers are gone? No, I could never do that! I refuse to ask a woman to marry a man who may not come home."

Darcy was silent. He didn't know what to say. He respected Richard's decision, even if he didn't agree with it. Love was a wondrous thing, as his cousin so eloquently put it. It made the pain of any sacrifice worth it in the end. Darcy knew if he only had a short amount of time with his Elizabeth, he would take it over not having her at all. Now that she was in his life he couldn't imagine his life without her. He believed he would sacrifice anything to have her by his side.

"Richard." Darcy said softly, "Maybe this would be an easier decision if you were in love, or had some affection for a lady. And if that is so, then ask her what she wishes. She has a right to choose, Richard. Don't make the decision for her."

Richard looked at Darcy, a thoughtful expression on his face. "You didn't offer one of your estates if I decide to sell out."

"Would you accept such an offer? Because the offer stands, permanently."

Richard huffed a laugh. "No, I think I would go mad with such a life as you lead, cousin. No offense."

Darcy smiled, "none taken. You just stated your preference, you know."

Richard sighed, rubbing his forehead. "Yes, I know. I always knew there was never really a choice. Now, I just have to live with it."

Darcy leaned forward, his clasped hands resting on the desk in front of him. He said solemnly, "You didn't say whether there was a certain lady that had captured your interest." Darcy had his suspicions but he wanted Richard to tell him.

Richard smiled, a mischievous gleam in his eyes. "And if I said it was Miss Elizabeth?"

Darcy snorted. "If I truly believed that, I would run you through if you came within a foot of her."

Richard laughed. "Of that I have no doubt. No, your Miss Elizabeth is safe from me." He looked at his cousin and smiled. "I am truly happy for you, Darcy. Miss Elizabeth is perfect for you. She appears to compliment you in every way. I just hope I will be here to see your wedding."

"We'll wait until you can be."

Richard snorted. "Don't be ridiculous, Darcy. I don't see you waiting months, maybe years to make Miss Elizabeth your wife."

"No, I suppose not." Darcy knew when he became engaged to Elizabeth, it would be a matter of weeks before he married her, not months.

Richard leaned forward, and with a roguish smile asked, "So, do you want to know how many painted horse tails I counted today?"

FEFEFEFEFEFEFEFEFEFE

Elizabeth and Jane sat in the carriage returning from taking tea at Darcy House. Elizabeth wore a soft smile, thinking of the pleasant afternoon she had spent with Mr Darcy, Miss Darcy and the Colonel. Immediately upon arriving, Mr Darcy had led her on a more thorough tour of his home. Alone. Elizabeth blushed as she recalled the many instances he had expressed his affection in small gestures; a firm hand on the small of her back, lightly tracing patterns on her hand. He had even brushed a wayward curl away from her face, his hand lingering briefly on her cheek; his eyes full of some strong emotion she was afraid to identify. As he led her through his home, he had shared stories of his ancestors; their histories, hopes and dreams. She found it fascinating and it was very clear that Mr Darcy was very proud of his heritage. Throughout the tour, he had made thinly veiled references to their future life together, which had caused her heart to soar with hope.

Elizabeth looked at Jane sitting across from her, studiously avoiding her gaze. Elizabeth sighed. Something was bothering her sister and she had a strong feeling it revolved around a certain handsome Colonel.

"Jane," Elizabeth's soft entreaty broke her sister's reverie.

"Not here, Lizzy," Jane said abruptly. She turned away from the window to look at her startled sister. "Forgive me. I just don't want to discuss it now. Please."

Elizabeth stared at her sister, concern furrowing her brow. "Very well. But you know you can tell me anything, Jane. Please tell me what is bothering you."

Jane sighed. "I will. I promise. Just not here. We will be at our Uncle's momentarily anyway. Not enough time to say what needs to be said."

Elizabeth nodded her head. "Very well." She leveled a firm look at her sister, "But I will hold you to your promise."

Jane smiled. "I would expect nothing less from you, Lizzy."

Late that night Elizabeth stood outside her sister's door, knocking softly. At Jane's soft, "come in, Lizzy," she quietly opened the door. Jane was sitting up in bed, obviously waiting for her. Elizabeth smiled, and climbed onto the bed to face her sister. Taking her hand she said softly, "Now, tell me what is bothering you."

Jane sighed softly, looking down. "It is rather silly, Lizzy. I fear I am making too much of well, nothing."

Elizabeth looked at her sister with understanding. She took a deep breath and asked, "Does this have to do with Colonel Fitzwilliam?"

Jane's head shot up and a blush suffused her face. "You were always too direct, Lizzy."

Elizabeth laughed, "yes, but I get results. Now, tell me what he has done."

"Nothing."

Elizabeth was confused. She was sure her sister's odd behavior towards the Colonel stemmed from something he had said or done. "What do you mean, nothing?"

Jane collapsed against her pillow. "I mean, he has done nothing."

Suddenly Elizabeth understood. Cautiously, she asked, "Jane, do you want him to do...something?"

Jane looked at her sister, her eyes wide. Shaking her head, she said, "I am not sure." She huffed, and in a rush of words, blurted out, "He is the most aggravating man I have ever met! He takes delight in others discomfort, he pokes fun at well, everyone, and he is incapable of being serious."

Elizabeth bit her lip to contain her laughter. Her sister was much more affected by the Colonel than she realized. "That is just his way, Jane. It makes him delightful company. Why should it bother you so?"

Jane exclaimed, "I don't know! He is the opposite of everything I thought I wanted in a man."

Elizabeth sat up. Now they were coming to the heart of the matter. "Jane, what do you want in a man?"

"I don't know anymore." Jane threw up her hands in frustration. " I am so confused, Lizzy! I wish I had never met him."

Elizabeth looked at her sister with compassion. "Has he given you any indication of his regard?"

Jane sat up, playing with a loose thread on the counterpane. "No. He has not."

Elizabeth frowned. She couldn't believe Jane was the only one feeling out of sorts. She was sure the Colonel was not unaffected by her sister. Who would not be? Jane was loveliness and perfect womanhood personified.

Softly, Jane said, "It doesn't matter anyway. He would not do anything even if he was inclined to."

Elizabeth was silent. She knew exactly what Jane was referring to. Hesitantly, she said, "The Colonel may not care that you have no money, Jane. When one is in love..."

"I am not in love, Lizzy. Nor is he. I don't know what I feel, but I know it is not love." Jane said firmly, "I may have a certain...fascination for the gentleman, but that is all. It will pass I am sure. Besides, he is a confirmed bachelor."

Elizabeth started in surprise. "Did he say that?"

Jane shook her head, "No, Miss Darcy mentioned it today while you were on your tour with Mr Darcy. But the Colonel did not contradict her." Jane gave her sister a sly look, "How was your tour, Lizzy? You were gone for over an hour."

Elizabeth shrugged nonchalantly, while a traitorous blush spread across her face. "Mr Darcy was telling me some fascinating stories about his ancestors. He..." Elizabeth stopped and looked at her sister accusingly. "Jane, don't try to distract me. We are talking about you, not me."

Jane laughed. "Very well, but you will have to explain why a simple house tour would cause you to blush." A look of alarm crossed her beautiful face. "He didn't do anything improper, did he Lizzy?"

Elizabeth looked down. She did not think Mr Darcy had done anything improper, but she knew her sister would think differently. "No, he did not. He eluded to his future...with me." Elizabeth looked at her sister with a radiant smile.

Jane sighed happily. "I am glad, Lizzy. But, I think more happened than you are saying," she said reproachfully.

Elizabeth sighed. "It was nothing really, Jane. He is very demonstrative of his affection, that is all."

"Lizzy! You didn't allow him to take liberties, did you?"

"No, of course not! I hardly think touching my hand is taking liberties, do you?" And my back, my cheek, my hair. Elizabeth blushed.

Jane narrowed her eyes at her sister. "Lizzy," she said warningly.

Elizabeth huffed. "Enough Jane. I know you are just stalling. We are here to talk about your feelings for the Colonel, not mine for Mr Darcy."

"What are your feelings for Mr Darcy?" At Elizabeth's censorious look, Jane laughed. "Very well. I will desist. For now."

Elizabeth smiled, relieved. She knew that she would have to be careful. It was a heady feeling to be courted by such a man as Mr Darcy; it was so easy to get lost in her emotions when she was in his presence. She shook her head, bringing her attention back to Jane who was giving her an indulgent smile. "Now, where were we? The Colonel is a confirmed bachelor? I think that is just a way of saying he hasn't found anyone to change his mind."

Jane smiled sadly. "Exactly."

"Oh Jane! Men can be rather dimwitted at times. You will be in his company frequently with me being courted by his cousin, so there will be plenty of opportunities for him to realize that he can't live without you."

Jane laughed and shook her head. "You can't make something happen just by wishing it, Lizzy. I don't even know if I want the Colonel's affections."

"Well, I don't think the Colonel is as unaffected as you believe, sister dear." Elizabeth said smugly.

Jane shot an amused look at her sister. "How would you know, Lizzy? You are too busy staring at Mr Darcy."

Elizabeth stared at her sister, open mouthed. "That is not true! Don't think it has escaped my notice that every time we have been in the Colonel's company he has chosen to sit by you, Jane. And you should have seen the look on his face when Sir Reginald offered to escort you at the Opera. He looked positively forlorn."

Jane blushed and smiled softly. She sat up and said, "Well, we shall see. All I will say is that I am not indifferent to the Colonel, but I am not expecting anything."

Elizabeth lay on her side, smiling up at her sister. "I am still curious about what you want in a man. Or rather, what you think you want in a man."

Jane looked at her sister contemplatively. "I always imagined myself with someone who was exceedingly amiable. As I am more reserved in company, it would be a good balance to be with someone who is more sociable. Also, someone who is trustworthy, steadfast, generous..."

"Handsome?" Elizabeth added with a raised brow.

"Of course." Jane said with a laugh.

Elizabeth looked thoughtfully at her sister. "You know, Jane. All those words describe the Colonel."

Jane looked at her sister in surprise. "I suppose you are right. However, I do not appreciate his penchant for making fun or how he delights in the discomfort of others, which I cannot tolerate."

Elizabeth protested. "But his intent is not malicious, Jane. He loves the ridiculous and finds folly in human nature."

"Everything to him is a joke. And I strongly suspect he had something to do with Sir Reginald's horses being painted green."

Elizabeth sat up in surprise. "Why do you say that?"

Jane looked at her sister incredulously. "Lizzy, he was positively giddy after the Opera and I distinctly saw him wink at his cousin when Sir Reginald got in his carriage. He did something, Lizzy. I just know it."

Elizabeth laughed, falling back on the bed. "Well, then remind me to thank him because I suspect it delayed Sir Reginald's arrival to the Opera."

"Lizzy!" Jane admonished her sister. "That doesn't excuse what he did to his horses! What if it harms them in some way?"

"It won't, Jane." With a sly smile, Elizabeth said, "Life with the Colonel would certainly never be dull."

Jane huffed. "It would turn your hair gray prematurely, that's for sure."

Elizabeth laughed. She leaned over and kissed her sister on her forehead. "Don't fret, Jane. I believe that if things are meant to work out, they will." With a parting smile, she left her sister to her thoughts. Maybe Mr Darcy could shed some light on the Colonel's state of mind.

A/N: A little shorter chapter this time. Sorry, I was feeling a little under the weather. This gives you a little more insight into what is going on in the heads of Jane and Richard. I admit, I am still trying to decide what to do with Richard - send him to the Iberian Peninsula? to the Americas? kill him off? (J/K I would never do that), keep him in the war office somehow? - ideas anyone?

As for Bingley, yes he will make an appearance, soon. Are you really that eager for the horror that is Caroline Bingley? Although, she does add flavor ;)

(1) Land that was being fought over in the Peninsular War (1807-1814) between Napoleon and GB/Spain/Portugal

(2) America declared war on GB on June 18, 1812

Please review! I have part of the dinner party already written, so if you review you might get a little something in your inbox ;)

Thanks for your amazing support!