21. Chapter 21

A/N: Okay, so the tree climbing does not happen in this chapter, but the next :( If you haven't noticed, I'm rather...ah...detailed in my writing and I severely misjudged how long it would take to get to that tree climbing scene. But, as promised, I did send a preview to everyone who reviewed last chapter (except for the guests and accounts that don't have PM enabled - sorry!) For everyone who reviews this chapter I will send that tree climbing scene and for those that already have it, I will send a different preview of next chapter that may possibility involve flowers :) So, go ahead and read and REVIEW!

Chapter 20

As soon as Elizabeth left the Drawing room she ran, her face wet with tears of anger and dismay. How dare he? She stumbled her way to the Oak tree, unaware of the drizzling rain, collapsing on the damp bench as she gave way to her tears. How could he act so...so...domineering? So controlling? She sat up, trying unsuccessfully to wipe away her tears. She took deep breaths to calm her racing heart but the ache she felt would not subside. She felt betrayed. Betrayed by him and especially by herself and her weak womanly heart. She thought she knew him? That he was her future? Hah! How could she desire a future with a man who turned out to be just like her mother! I forbid it. The same words her mother used. Her blood ran cold and she felt her heart harden. So this is what disillusionment felt like. Shame on her for believing that Mr Darcy was different, for building up her hopes and dreams. Her mother was right, all men would disappoint and deceive her in the end. She was better off alone. The thought brought Elizabeth no comfort, but led to another round of sobbing.

After an indeterminate length of time, Elizabeth stood, her tears spent. She was done. She would waste no more time, thoughts or energy on that man. Resolute, she made her way back to the house, head high.

As she entered the house she saw Jane approaching wearing a worried expression. Elizabeth sighed softly. Before her sister could say anything, Elizabeth forestalled her by saying, "I am well, Jane." The slight quiver in her voice betrayed her troubled heart and mind.

Jane looked compassionately at her sister. "You are not well, Lizzy. And I would be disappointed in you if you were. I won't press you to confide in me now, but you need to talk about this, Lizzy. Don't shut me out, please."

Elizabeth nodded, afraid to speak for fear of crying. Jane knew her too well. Wordlessly, she embraced her sister before walking away. She felt listless and she was beginning to get a fierce headache from all her crying. She just wanted to forget this day had ever happened. Was it just earlier this afternoon that she had joked with Mr Darcy about his birthday present? She shook her head as if to rid her thoughts of that gentleman.

She entered her room, closing the door firmly behind her. Alone. She was alone. The aching pain returned in full force and she unleashed her pent up tears. Closing her eyes, she slid down to the floor, burying her head in her hands and gave way to her grief. She cried for all the times she felt helpless against her mother's admonitions and directives, her harsh criticisms and constant belittling. What was it about her that made people think they could control her? To be treated so disrespectfully by her mother and now, Mr Darcy. There must be something wrong in the very fabric of her soul. She stumbled to her feet and made her way to her bed, collapsing on the counterpane, exhausted and heartsick. Curling up, she forced her mind to be still and thankfully drifted off to sleep.

The next morning Elizabeth woke chilled, uncomfortable and exhausted. With a groan, she sat up, stretching her cramped muscles. She made her way to her dressing table, sitting ungracefully on the chair.

Sarah entered in an unusually subdued manner. Instead of her normal cheerful greeting, she took one look at Elizabeth and promptly said, "Begging your pardon, Miss Lizzy, but you look awful."

Elizabeth grimaced, gazing at her disheveled appearance in the mirror. Her dress from the day before was hopelessly wrinkled and stained from the rain. Her hair was an untidy mess, long strands hanging down her back in a tangled mass. Red rimmed eyes punctuated with dark circles under her eyes, evidence of her restless night.

"I have your bath ready for you, Miss Lizzy," Sarah said softly as she came and began removing the remaining pins from her disheveled hair.

"Thank you, Sarah."

An hour later, Elizabeth left her room, evidence of her restless night erased save her slightly red and exhausted eyes.

Conversation ceased as she entered the small dining room. Wordlessly, she went to the sideboard, helping herself before sitting next to her sister. She took a deep breath before looking up to meet the sympathetic looks of her Aunt, Uncle and sister. She smiled, shaking her head. "No need to look at me like that, I will be well."

"We know that, my dear," Mr Gardiner said kindly. "But, we can't help but be worried about you."

Wordlessly, Elizabeth nodded. Her Uncle stood, squeezing her shoulder before leaving. Unbidden, tears formed in her eyes at her Uncle's kind gesture. This was ridiculous! She couldn't remember the last time she acted like such a watering pot.

"Lizzy..." Mrs Gardiner began hesitantly.

Elizabeth held up a hand. "Please, Aunt. I don't want to talk about it."

Mrs Gardiner sighed deeply, looking at her niece with kindness and understanding. "Very well. If that is what you wish."

"It is." Elizabeth said firmly.

Mrs Gardiner exchanged a worried look with Jane before saying with forced cheerfulness, "Well, let's talk about this afternoon, shall we? We are expected at the Foundling Hospital after luncheon. Would that be agreeable, girls? Although..." Mrs Gardiner hesitated. "Perhaps, given the circumstances, I would understand if you remained here, Lizzy."

Elizabeth's head shot up and she stared at her Aunt in consternation. "I am going, Aunt," she said decisively. "I am not ill."

"Not in body, perhaps," Jane said quietly.

"Jane, please," Elizabeth said pleadingly. She was not ready to talk about it. Not now, when the pain was still so raw.

"You know you need to talk about this, Lizzy."

Elizabeth sighed, looking at the resolute expression of her sister. She knew Jane would not let this go, it was the same whenever her mother did or said something to upset her. "I know. But, later. Please?"

Jane nodded, satisfied. "Very well. After we get back from the Foundling Hospital." At Elizabeth's protest, Jane said determinedly, "Lizzy, I know you. If you let this go on too long, it will fester and turn to bitterness."

"Jane is right, Lizzy. You know she is," Mrs Gardiner said gently.

Elizabeth conceded defeat. "Very well." Elizabeth could not deny that talking with someone, especially Jane helped her to move past the hurt caused by her mother. She didn't know if the same would hold true to moving past Mr Darcy's betrayal. She had allowed herself to believe in him, in them. Feeling her eyes fill with tears, Elizabeth hastily excused herself and left the table.

Wanting to be alone, she headed back to her room. As she neared her Uncle's study she heard the unmistakable voice of Mr Darcy and Simmons, the butler. She halted, looking around frantically for a place to hide. She couldn't see him, not now! She quickly hid in a small window alcove, shutting the drapes to hide herself. She stood perfectly still, not daring to breathe as she waited for him to pass. No sooner had she closed the drapes, then the heavy footfalls of Simmons followed by the confident stride of Mr Darcy were heard. She shut her eyes as they passed, willing Simmons to not notice the closed drapes.

They paused outside her Uncle's study and she heard Mr Darcy ask Simmons if she were at home. Elizabeth's breath caught and her heart began pounding. He wanted to see her?

"I believe she is breaking her fast, sir. Do you wish to see her, sir?"

Elizabeth held her breath, half in fear and half anticipation at his reply. Her heart sank as she heard him say no. Elizabeth fought back tears, the ache in her heart overwhelming painful. Foolish girl! She should not be surprised. She didn't want to see him, anyway.

As soon as Mr Darcy was with her Uncle in his study she burst out of the alcove, startling Simmons who had come to pull back the drapes. With a hasty, "Excuse me, Simmons." She quickly retreated to her bedroom, silent tears running unchecked down her face.

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Darcy ascended the steps to Gardiners with a single purpose, find Mr John Williamson as soon as possible so he could remove the potential threat to Elizabeth. He quickly realized that working together with Gardiner would be the most effective way in accomplishing his goal. Until Mr Williamson was located, he was resolved to do everything in his power to ensure Elizabeth's safety. To this end, he had informed Richard of the events of the previous day to gain his support. Despite, Richard's anger and shock at his officious behavior towards Elizabeth he had not hesitated to offer his assistance. By the end of the day, two former soldiers were hired to protect Elizabeth.

As the butler led him to Gardiners study, Darcy hoped for a glimpse of Elizabeth. He was trusting Mrs Gardiners advice to give Elizabeth some time before explaining his behavior. He did not consider himself a patient man and it rankled that he could not correct his mistake immediately. He would never forgive himself for causing her pain. Despite his good intentions, it in no way excused his overbearing behavior. She had every right to react the way she did. She had even warned him of her obstinate tendencies earlier. Heaven help him, indeed.

Despite everything, he was grateful that Elizabeth was so strong-willed and knew her own mind. He did not desire a passive wife who agreed with his every order without so much as a whimper. He smiled. Life with her would never be dull. But in order to secure his happiness, he had to apologize, grovel if need be. But first, he needed to talk to Gardiner.

"Simmons, Colonel Fitzwilliam will be joining us shortly, please have him shown in immediately."

"Very good, sir."

As Darcy passed a window alcove, he detected the barest scent of Jasmine. Elizabeth. A sudden longing to see her overwhelmed him. "Simmons, is Miss Elizabeth at home?" The butler informed him that she was breaking her fast and inquired if he wished to see her. Yes. He hesitated briefly before responding, regretfully, "No." Gardiner first. Then he could focus all his attention on gaining her forgiveness.

The meeting with Gardiner was short and to the point. Not surprisingly, he protested Darcy bearing the entirety of the expense of the hired men. He debated, as he was Elizabeth's guardian, her well being was his responsibility, not Darcy's. After some heated arguing, Darcy finally agreed to allow Gardiner to pay half.

As soon as Richard arrived, the planning to locate John Williamson began. Richard, used to taking charge in such situations, said without preamble, "Tell me everything you know about Mr John Williamson, Gardiner."

Gardiner leaned back, folding his hands on his stomach. "When I knew him, he was a simple clerk. But after he moved to Scotland, he became a solicitor. I lost all contact with him after that."

"Where did he live in Scotland?" Richard asked.

"I believe he went to live with some relatives in Edinburgh. As far as I know, he remained there."

"What do you know of his family?"

"Very little. His parents died when he was a young man. His father had a sister who moved to Edinburgh after she married. They were his only living relatives. I know that he lived with them when he first moved to Scotland. But, like I said, I don't know if he remained there."

"His Aunt's name?"

"Her married name is McDonald. I do not know her first name."

Richard looked at Darcy. "This might prove difficult, Darcy. Do you know how many McDonald's probably live in or near Edinburgh?"

"Yes, but how many have a nephew named John Williamson?"

"That's assuming he didn't change his name when he came to England," Richard muttered under his breath.

Gardiner and Darcy stared at Richard in alarm. Richard explained, "It is not uncommon, especially if one is trying to run from his past or forge a new life. And if this man has a reason to hold a grudge and is seeking revenge, well...it is more likely that he changed his name. Do you know the maiden name of his mother?"

"Why?" Gardiner asked in surprise.

"It is the most likely name he would adopt. Men like to keep some remnant of their past, even if they are trying to forget it," Richard explained.

Gardiner raised his brows. "Indeed. I will not ask how you know that. Let's see, his mother's maiden name I believe was Bailey."

"So we need to search not only for a John Williamson but John Bailey as well?" Darcy asked, running a hand through his hair.

Richard nodded. "Unfortunately, yes."

"I still do not know if John Williamson is the man that you saw, Darcy. It could be someone else." Gardiner hoped it was so. He didn't want to face that man again, not after what he did.

"You and I know that is not true, Gardiner." Darcy said firmly.

Gardiner sighed and grudgingly agreed. "Yes, you are right. I can't think of a single person who would react so upon seeing Elizabeth. I am sure that he thought he was seeing a ghost."

"What do you mean?" Richard asked, looking at Gardiner in confusion.

Gardiner turned white, realizing what he had said. He waved his hand dismissively. "Just that seeing someone who resembled my sister probably came as quite a shock."

Darcy's eyes narrowed. It was obvious that Gardiner was lying. He glanced at Richard, who wore a similar expression of disbelief on his face. Well, he would not get into that now. It was more important that they find John Williamson, not delve into his past.

The three men quickly came to an agreement on the course of action to take to find the man. They would meet on Monday to share what they had discovered.

As Darcy stood to leave, he turned to Gardiner and said, "In light of what happened yesterday between Miss Elizabeth and I, I believe that keeping her in the dark is not in her best interests." Or mine.

Gardiner stared at Darcy for a moment, before sighing heavily. "Yes, I believe there is some truth to that." Leveling a stern look at Darcy, he said, "It still doesn't excuse how you treated Elizabeth yesterday, Darcy."

"I know. And I plan on apologizing to her. But, I think it would help if she knew why I acted the way I did."

"Are you asking my permission, Darcy?" Gardiner asked with raised brows.

"No. I am asking, as Miss Elizabeth's guardian to tell her what is going on. If you will not, then I will." Darcy said decisively.

Gardiners eyes narrowed. "And if I forbid it?"

Darcy barely refrained from rolling his eyes. "Do you really want to go there, Gardiner? Especially in light of what has happened with Miss Elizabeth? I assure you, I am not opposed to arguing with you, but I believe we have more important things to do. I will tell Miss Elizabeth, Gardiner. I am just giving you the courtesy of telling her first."

Gardiner and Darcy stared at each other, neither breaking eye contact. Out of the corner of his eye, Darcy saw Richard pull out his watch to see how long they remained locked in a silent battle of wills.

Finally, Gardiner nodded his head. "Very well, Darcy. I will tell her. But only because I wish to tell Marianne. If I tell my wife, I might as well tell my niece. I want them both to be on their guard."

Darcy nodded his head, satisfied. "Thank you, Gardiner."

"A word of advice, Darcy. Don't let Elizabeth get away with her behavior yesterday. Although, she was justified in her anger, she behaved disrespectfully. She has always been too headstrong. Rein her in now Darcy, or you will never have a moment's peace." Gardiner watched Darcy carefully as he deliberately lied. Truth be told, he was proud of Elizabeth for not bowing to Darcy's high-handed ways.

Darcy clenched his jaw in anger. In a tense voice, he replied, "I will treat Elizabeth as an equal, Gardiner. If I wanted a docile and obedient wife who followed me blindly, I would marry my horse. I value Elizabeth's strong will and independent spirit. I will not rein her in, but allow her to run free. Good day, Gardiner."

Gardiner smiled in satisfaction as Darcy left with Colonel Fitzwilliam. Yes, Darcy was the perfect man for his niece. He already cared for her wellbeing as if she were already his wife. And he firmly believed that adversity brought out the best and worst in people; this misunderstanding would forge a stronger bond between them. Yes, Darcy was a man he would be proud to call nephew.

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Elizabeth followed her Aunt and sister into the front entrance of the Foundling Hospital in Bloomsbury. As soon as she entered the large, double doors, she smiled at the sounds of children clearly heard in the distance. This would be a very welcome distraction from her somber thoughts. She politely greeted the matron of the hospital as she bustled up to meet her Aunt. Elizabeth curtsied as she was introduced, looking around curiously. Her Aunt addressed her, bringing her attention back.

"Lizzy, I think the infant's room could use another hand. Would you mind?"

Elizabeth smiled, pleased. "Of course not, Aunt. You know how much I love babies."

Mrs Gardiner chuckled. "Yes, I know. Jane and I will be with the older children down the hall if you need anything."

"I will be fine. Don't worry about me." Elizabeth shooed her Aunt and Jane before following the matron to where the infants were kept.

The matron kept up a steady stream of cheerful chatter as they walked. "You won't be alone, Miss. There will be another volunteer with you as well as a member of our staff. You will be fine," she said reassuringly, mistaking Elizabeth's silence for unease.

Elizabeth nodded, happy to listen to the chatter of the matron. As she entered the infant room, she stopped abruptly in shock as the last person she expected to see stood in front of her holding a small infant.

"Lady Worthington!" Elizabeth cried, before realizing that most of the babies were sleeping.

Lady Worthington winked, a contented smile on her face. In a subdued voice, she said, "Miss Elizabeth, how good to see you, my dear."

Elizabeth walked over to Lady Worthington, peering down at the sleeping babe in her arms. She reached out a finger and gently caressed the soft face. "So sweet," she murmured.

"Yes, I have to admit, little Rose is my favorite." Lady Worthington said, gazing lovingly at the babe.

"I admit, I am surprised to see you here, my lady." Elizabeth said without thought. Realizing what she said, her eyes widened in dismay. "I mean..that is to say..."

Lady Worthington laughed softly, her eyes twinkling with good humor. "I know what you mean, my dear. I am sure many would not expect to see an elderly woman like myself to be in a place like this." Her eyes saddened and a flash of regret passed over her countenance. "Truth is, like your Aunt, my Roger and I were not blessed with children. I find that coming here lessens the ache a bit."

Elizabeth looked at Lady Worthington with new understanding. Quietly, she said, "I was not aware, my lady. I am sorry."

"Oh fiddle faddle. I find fulfillment in other ways. Like taking an avid interest in the love affairs of others," she said with a wink. "Like you and your Mr Darcy. Now, that brings me great joy."

Elizabeth paled and looked away before Lady Worthington could note the sudden welling of tears in her eyes. Thankfully, a baby was placed in her arms and she was able to direct her tearful gaze toward the infant. Her subterfuge did not go unnoticed by the keen eyes of Lady Worthington.

"Here now, what's this?" Lady Worthington moved so she could peruse Elizabeth's face. Her eyes narrowed and she said curtly, "What did he do?"

Elizabeth stared at Lady Worthington. Was nothing beneath her notice? "I am sure I don't understand you, my lady."

Lady Worthington snorted. "Don't be ridiculous, my girl. I am old, not senile. I can see the evidence of a sleepless night and judging by your red rimmed eyes, you've done a fair amount of weeping. Unless there has been a death in your family, I don't know what else would cause you to weep so unless your lover did something. So, I ask again. What did that sapscull (1) do?"

Elizabeth stared at Lady Worthington biting her lip to keep from laughing. She certainly had a way of getting directly to the point. She took a deep breath, before meeting the amused gaze of Lady Worthington.

"Well, am I right?"

Elizabeth sighed, looking down at the infant in her arms. She didn't want to discuss what happened, but she knew Lady Worthington would be relentless until she knew all. Besides, she was grateful for Lady Worthington's assistance in keeping her courtship with Mr Darcy a secret. Not that it matters now. No doubt that was why Mr Darcy wished to see her Uncle this morning, to put an end to their courtship. Elizabeth ignored the sharp pain in her heart at the thought. Quietly, she told Lady Worthington all that had occurred between them the day before.

Lady Worthington shook her head in exasperation. "Well, of all the bird-witted things to do. I guess I should not be surprised. It sounds like your Mr Darcy is just like his father, poor boy."

Elizabeth looked at Lady Worthington in surprise. "You knew Mr Darcy's father?"

"Oh yes, and his mother, Lady Anne. I have never seen a couple so in love, except perhaps for you and your Mr Darcy. I guess Mr Darcy is just like his father in that regard as well," Lady Worthington said with a wink.

Elizabeth blushed at Lady Worthington's admission. "I don't know about that," she said quietly.

Lady Worthington gave her a sharp, calculating look. "Miss Elizabeth, there is something you need to understand about the Darcy men. They are proud and overbearing, used to getting their own way in well...everything. I know George and Lady Anne had quite a few arguments during their marriage because she would not give in to his officious tendencies. I am glad you are of like mind. It takes a strong woman to live with a Darcy, but I have no doubt you will be able to handle it."

"I'm not sure I want to," Elizabeth said quietly to herself.

Lady Worthington snorted. "Don't be a fool, my girl. Despite their proud nature, the Darcy's are also extremely protective and loyal. I have never seen a more attentive and considerate husband than George Darcy, and his son will be just the same way. I bet my favorite turban, Mr Darcy acted the way he did out of a desire to protect you. Did something happen that would cause him to act in such an overbearing manner?"

Elizabeth stared at Lady Worthington, her brow furrowed in concentration. The only thing she could think of was the man who had stared at her in such a disconcerting way at The Royal Menagerie. But Mr Darcy had said all was well, that the man was an acquaintance of her Uncle's. Had he lied? And why? If he was worried, why not tell her?

Lady Worthington watched the myriad of emotions pass over her young friend's face. She nodded knowingly. "Protective, my girl. You mark my words. It doesn't excuse his horrendous behavior; you were quite right to stand up to him. But I am sure he would not act in such a way without good reason."

Elizabeth numbly nodded her head. Lady Worthington had given her much to think on. They fell silent, each tending to several more infants. She cuddled a particularly fussy babe, holding it over her shoulder and rubbing its back, making soothing noises.

"You are quite a natural, my dear; little Thomas doesn't take to just anyone. You will make a wonderful mother," Lady Worthington said with longing. "I hope you don't keep your Mr Darcy waiting too long. After a proper amount of groveling, let him back into your good graces. I am sure he will be very demonstrative in his quest for forgiveness." Lady Worthington laughed as Elizabeth blushed. "That is another trait of the Darcy men, they are quite...passionate, in all their endeavors."

Elizabeth, desperate to change the subject asked, "Did you ever wish to adopt a child? With all these unwanted children desperate for homes, I would think more childless couples would do so."

Lady Worthington gave Elizabeth a measured look. "Yes, there are many who take a foundling and claim it as their own. But, amongst the ton, it is always done in secret. Especially if the couple is well known and titled. There would be a big to do if an heir was discovered to be adopted."

"I see. And does it happen often?"

Lady Worthington smiled, secretively. "More often than you think."

Elizabeth waited for Lady Worthington to divulge more, but she remained silent. Elizabeth wondered if some of the secrets Lady Worthington possessed included couples of the ton who were passing off a foundling child as their own. Elizabeth shook her head. It was incredible that such a kind woman held such power in her hands over the lives of so many.

(1) sapscull: simple, foolish fellow

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Time for Elizabeth passed quickly and before long, she was on her way home. Her mind reviewed all that Lady Worthington had told her about Mr Darcy. She wanted to believe it, desperately. But, what if Lady Worthington was wrong? She knew she could not live with a man bent on controlling her. She would not choose a husband who treated her as callously as her mother. It would break her heart and her spirit. Her heart whispered that Mr Darcy would not try to control her like her mother. But hadn't he already revealed his overbearing nature once? What if he did it again?

Jane gave Elizabeth a significant look as they made their way inside the house. Elizabeth sighed and nodded her head, resigned. Her brief reprieve was over, it was time to talk to her sister. Elizabeth followed her sister up to their shared sitting room. Elizabeth settled on the comfortable sofa, her stomach a bundle of nerves.

Jane sat across from her, smiling encouragingly at Elizabeth. "Now, Lizzy. Tell me what is going through that beautiful head of yours."

Elizabeth glanced at her sister briefly before looking away, sighing. She shrugged her shoulders. "You were there, you heard what happened, Jane. What do you think is going through my head?'

"Lizzy," Jane's quiet voice brought Elizabeth's gaze back to her sister. Gently, she said, "Mr Darcy is not like our mother."

Jane's words and compassionate gaze caused Elizabeth's eyes to well with tears, sliding silently down her cheeks. Angrily, she wiped them away. "This is ridiculous, I am done crying over that man!"

Moving to sit beside her sister, Jane clasped Elizabeth's hand, "It is not ridiculous, Lizzy. There is no shame in crying."

Elizabeth turned her tear stained face to Jane, bringing a clenched fist to her heart. In a broken voice, she cried, "It hurts, Jane. Why does it hurt so much?"

Jane embraced her sister as she said, softly, "Oh Lizzy, don't you know?"

Elizabeth shook her head against Jane's shoulder as she whispered, "No."

"Because you love him."

Elizabeth froze, pulling out of her sister's embrace to stare, wide eyed at Jane's sure expression. Her heat beat furiously at the realization that her sister was right. She didn't need time to know her own heart. She loved him; completely, ardently, irrevocably, foolishly, disastrously. Shaking her head she whispered, "Then, I'm a fool."

Jane's expression hardened. "You are not! Lizzy, don't project the negative emotions you feel about our mother onto Mr Darcy. You are being unfair."

Elizabeth stood, infuriated. "I am being unfair? Jane! You heard what he said! I forbid it." In a quieter voice, she said, "Just like mama."

"Yes, Lizzy. I heard what he said. But unlike you, I noted his expression as he was saying it." Jane stood to face her irate sister. "Do you know what I saw?"

Elizabeth shook her head, turning away from her sister. In a monotone voice, she replied, "What did you see, Jane?"

Jane grasped Elizabeth's arm, turning her around to face her. When Elizabeth's eyes met hers, she said, "Fear. I saw fear in his eyes, Lizzy. For some reason the idea of you going to the Foundling Hospital made him afraid. For you."

Elizabeth stared at Jane. She thought of all that Lady Worthington had told her about Mr Darcy. Protective. Considerate. Loyal. Attentive. Passionate. She had also said he was overbearing and proud. Did Mr Darcy's behavior stem from a need to control or to protect? Elizabeth rubbed her forehead. She couldn't make sense of it.

"Lizzy." Jane's quiet entreaty interrupted Elizabeth's confused thoughts. "Talk to me. What are you thinking?"

Elizabeth sighed, sitting on the sofa. "I don't know, Jane. It is all just a muddle."

Jane sat next to her sister. "Well, tell me. Maybe together, we can make sense of it all."

Elizabeth shared with Jane all that Lady Worthington had said earlier about Mr Darcy being just like his father.

"Do you believe her?" Jane asked.

Elizabeth looked down at her hands as she said quietly, "I don't know, Jane." She sighed, looking up to meet her sister's understanding gaze. "I don't know what to believe anymore."

"What does your heart tell you?"

Elizabeth was silent as she contemplated her sister's question. She wanted to believe Lady Worthington, that Mr Darcy was acting out of a need to protect her. But why? Why not just come out and say it? She couldn't overlook the fact that his initial reaction was to command her to comply with his request. Blindly. Maybe some men liked their wives to be docile and obey with blind obedience. If that was Mr Darcy's expectation, he was in for a rude awakening.

Elizabeth stood and began pacing. "I refuse to give myself to a man who expects his every wish to be obeyed without question. I refuse to be controlled, Jane I have had enough of that from our mother. If he was acting out of fear, then why not tell me?"

"What would make him afraid for you, Lizzy? Did something happen that I don't know about?"

Elizabeth slowly nodded her head. "Yes. Something happened at the Royal Menagerie. Right before we left there was a man who was staring at me in a rather disconcerting and intense manner. It made me quite uncomfortable. Mr Darcy tried to confront the man, but he left."

Jane looked at her sister in alarm. "Who was it?"

Elizabeth shook her head. "I don't know. Mr Darcy did not recognize him either." Elizabeth wrapped her arms around herself. "The strange thing is, he looked at me like he knew me, or recognized me. But how can that be?"

Jane shrugged her shoulders, perplexed. "Maybe he thought you were our mother?"

Elizabeth stared at Jane. "I never even thought of that possibility."

Jane smiled sadly at her sister. "I am not surprised, Lizzy. You don't like to be reminded that you look so much like our mother."

"No more than she does." Elizabeth murmured under her breath.

Jane ignored her sister's remark and asked, "Could that incident be the cause of Mr Darcy's fear?"

"I don't think so. He talked to our Uncle to determine if he was an acquaintance of his. When he returned he said all was well." Elizabeth suddenly recalled Mr Darcy's behavior and demeanor after returning from talking with her Uncle. "Jane, I just remembered something."

"What did you remember?" Jane leaned forward eagerly.

"Mr Darcy was unusually subdued after returning from speaking with Uncle. I got the distinct impression he was keeping something from me."

Jane leaned back with a smile. "Well, there it is. He obviously found out something from our Uncle that caused him to become fearful. But what? Why would that man, thinking you were our mother, cause Mr Darcy distress?"

Elizabeth bit her lip. "I don't know, Jane. But all this could have been avoided if he had just told me, instead of hiding it from me."

"Or you could have asked him why he wished you to stay home," Jane suggested softly.

Elizabeth whirled to face her sister. "Are you accusing me, Jane? After how Mr Darcy acted, how could I remain in his presence?"

"No, Lizzy. I am not accusing you. But, if you would have stopped for a moment and asked, instead of acting in such a way, I am sure he would have explained himself. Indeed, after you left so...abruptly, he immediately asked to speak with you to explain. He was so remorseful, Lizzy."

"Then why did he not ask to see me when he visited Uncle this morning?" Elizabeth cried.

Jane looked at Elizabeth in surprise. "Mr Darcy was here? This morning?"

"Yes, I hid behind the curtain in that small alcove near Uncle's study. I heard Mr Darcy ask Simmons if I was at home. When Simmons asked if he wished to see me, he said no. Then he went and spoke to our Uncle." Elizabeth said dejectedly, "No doubt to put an end to our courtship since I am sure I don't meet his expectations of a proper wife."

"Stop it, Lizzy. He did no such thing. Don't make assumptions based on your own insecurities." Jane reached for her sister's hand, squeezing it tightly. "Lizzy, you are allowed to be hurt and angry. His behavior was inexcusable no matter his intentions for doing so. But, don't harden your heart against him, Lizzy. He has faults, he is imperfect, but he is perfect for you. He loves you and you love him. Don't let your fear cloud your judgment."

Elizabeth squeezed Jane's hand, giving her a small smile. "Yesterday, I was convinced that it was over between us, that I would be alone. That our mother was right." Elizabeth stopped to compose herself, taking a deep breath. "And it hurt, Jane. The pain was unbearable. I had allowed myself to believe that Mr Darcy was different, that he truly..." Elizabeth stopped to wipe tears from her face. "That he truly cared for me. I had lost all hope." Elizabeth met her sister's compassionate gaze. "I don't know what will happen between us." Elizabeth looked down, before meeting her sister's gaze, her eyes filled with anguish. "He hasn't tried to see me, Jane. If he truly cared, why didn't he want to see me this morning?"

Jane gazed at her distraught sister. Slowly, she said, "Perhaps, he wanted to give you time. Maybe he knew you would not be open to hearing his explanation so soon."

Elizabeth nodded, her heart filling with a tentative hope. Smiling sadly at her sister, she asked, "Do you think there will come a time when I don't constantly question Mr Darcy's intentions and regard for me?"

Jane stood to embrace her sister. "Yes, Lizzy, I do. Perhaps, when you can freely admit to yourself that you love him, without reservation," Jane leaned back to gaze at her dearest friend, "and without fear."

Elizabeth smiled at her sister, pulling her into a fierce embrace. "What would I do without you, Jane?"

Jane laughed, "You'll never have to find out, Lizzy. You'll never get rid of me."

Elizabeth raised a brow. "Oh no? Not even when you marry and start a family of your own?"

Jane paled slightly, pulling away from her sister. Quietly, she said, "I doubt that will happen."

"Now who is being ridiculous, Jane! Never marry indeed. What about our dear Colonel Fitzwilliam? He has shown you rather marked attentions lately. Don't tell me there is nothing there, Jane. For I will know that you are lying."

Jane took a deep breath and opened her mouth to respond when a knock was heard. Jane breathed a quiet sigh of relief. "Come in."

Elizabeth gave her sister a look that clearly indicated their conversation was not over.

Sarah opened the door and curtsying, she said, "Beg your pardon. But the Master wishes to see you, Miss Lizzy. He is waiting for you in his study."

"Thank you, Sarah. Tell my Uncle I will be right there." What could he want with her? Was he going to inform her that her courtship with Mr Darcy was at an end? Elizabeth's heart constricted painfully at the thought. No! she was not going to assume the worst.

As she left, she turned to her sister. "This conversation is not over, Jane. You may have been saved by the timely interruption of Sarah, but I will find out what is going on."

"There is nothing to tell, Lizzy."

Elizabeth shook her head in disbelief. "I don't believe that for one moment. And neither do you. Now, who is afraid?"

"I am not afraid, Lizzy. I am being realistic," Jane said with a sigh. Shooing her sister, she said with a laugh, "Now, don't keep our Uncle waiting."

Elizabeth turned to go. "Very well, Jane. But I will get my answers." Elizabeth left her sister to her thoughts as she made her way to her Uncle's study, with a slight feeling of anxiety.

A/N: So, now you understand why poor Elizabeth reacted the way she did. Lady W gave her much to think about and you gotta love a supportive and understanding sister.

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Much love! MAH