35. Chapter 35

Thank you to my beta, CassandraLowry - you're amazing!

Chapter 34

Elizabeth was extremely pleased when Fitzwilliam informed her that her uncle was willing to seek Mr. Williamson's forgiveness and surprised that he wished Fitzwilliam to accompany him. But upon further reflection, she realized that she should not be. Her betrothed was a gentleman who inspired confidence, and she knew that her uncle respected him greatly. She was proud of her uncle for facing Mr. Williamson, knowing it would not be easy for him. As much as she wished the meeting between them would take place soon so she could finally talk with her uncle, she agreed with Fitzwilliam that it was unlikely to occur that day. Elizabeth had noticed how weak Mr. Williamson had become in the thirty minutes during which they had talked with him.

Simmons entered the drawing room less than an hour later with a message that her uncle was ready and waiting for Fitzwilliam. She turned to her betrothed in astonishment.

"I did not think Mr. Williamson would be ready to see my uncle so soon."

Darcy stood, holding out his hand to assist Elizabeth. "Nor I. He must desire closure as well," he responded as he escorted her from the drawing room.

Upon seeing her uncle in the foyer, Elizabeth froze, her expression one of concern and shock at his altered appearance. She looked up at Fitzwilliam and said, "Perhaps you should just go, Fitzwilliam. I do not wish to delay your departure. I can wait a little longer to speak with him."

Darcy smiled, leaning down to kiss her temple softly. "We should not be long. I will see you soon, my love."

Elizabeth watched from the shadows as Fitzwilliam prepared to leave, her uncle waiting patiently for him to be ready. As they exited the house, Elizabeth offered a silent prayer that the meeting would go well and that her uncle would have the courage he needed to speak to Mr. Williamson.

As soon as they were gone, Elizabeth wasted no time in seeking out her sister. Unfortunately, Jane was not in any of her usual places. Jane would not hide from her, would she? She shook her head, berating herself for thinking such an ungenerous thought. Elizabeth found her feet leading to the one place she would go if she were upset: the garden.

She found Jane sitting on the bench under the oak tree, gazing off into the distance with a disconsolate expression on her lovely face. It was such an unusual sight to see her sister thus that it made Elizabeth pause and gather her emotions before facing her sister. The last thing she wished was to say something indelicate that would harm her sister's tender sensibilities.

"Jane?" Elizabeth called out hesitantly.

Jane turned upon hearing her sister's soft voice and smiled, smoothing her dress with a trembling hand. Elizabeth immediately noticed her smile didn't reach her sister's beautiful blue eyes.

"Lizzy," Jane said softly. "I wondered when you would find me."

Elizabeth sat beside her sister, knowing her sister's statement was not one of censure but inevitability. "Do you wish to talk about it?"

Jane sighed, looking down at her clasped hands. "I apologize for my rude behavior. I suppose Colonel Fitzwilliam has left?" she asked, her tone resigned.

Elizabeth nodded. "He was worried that his behavior towards Mr. Bingley caused your distress."

Jane turned to her sister and exclaimed, "But that's not why I left, Lizzy!"

Elizabeth smiled knowingly at her sister. "I know, Jane. And I told the Colonel that as well. He still insisted on returning tomorrow and offering you his apology."

When Jane didn't respond, Elizabeth chewed her lip. She didn't want to push Jane to confide in her if she was not ready to speak of what was troubling her heart, but she also couldn't leave her sister in such a state. "Will you not tell me what is troubling you, Jane?"

Jane shook her head, wrapping her arms around her waist. "It is silly, Lizzy, truly. I am being petty and ungenerous. It is not even worth mentioning."

Elizabeth sighed softly, unwilling to give up. "Jane, it is not 'nothing.' Please, talk to me." Elizabeth gently turned her sister to face her so she could see her face. She studied Jane's downcast countenance, smoothing back a few tendrils of hair that had escaped her sister's chignon. When Jane didn't answer, Elizabeth took her sister's hand in hers, squeezing gently. She took a deep breath before voicing what she felt was truly bothering her sister.

"You are frustrated because your own love affair has not gone as smoothly or as easily as mine," Elizabeth stated softly.

Jane's head shot up, and she stared at her with wide eyes, her expression panicked. "Lizzy, I...that is, please don't..." Jane closed her eyes, pressing a hand to her forehead.

Elizabeth smiled softly. "Jane, I know you better than you think I do. Although you have not expressed your frustrations, I have seen how the Colonel's indecisiveness has left you upset and confused." She reached to pull Jane's hand away from her eyes. "Why have you not said anything until now?"

Jane looked at her sister in astonishment. "How could I, Lizzy? The last thing I wanted was for you to think that I resented your good fortune...which couldn't be further from the truth." She reached out and grasped Elizabeth's hand. "No one deserves such happiness more than you do Lizzy. Please know that I am so happy that you found such a good man who loves you as you deserve to be loved."

"Of course I know that, Jane! But that doesn't mean that you cannot wish for a similar happiness. And you have found it! The Colonel loves you, and if he hadn't been interrupted today, he would have asked you to marry him, or at least asked to court you." With a playful smile, she added, "I have it on very good authority that the Colonel's intentions are leading in that direction."

Jane's countenance brightened at her sister's reassurances. "I know, Lizzy. I truly thought today was the day when he would finally declare himself." She straightened, her expression incredulous. "Not once, but three times he was prevented from declaring himself, Lizzy! Three times!"

Elizabeth gazed at her sister in surprise. Poor Jane! If she had known, she would have tried harder to prevent Fitzwilliam from interrupting them in the drawing room. "I know the Colonel was going to ask in the drawing room before Fitzwilliam and I entered, but when were the other two times?"

Jane stared at her sister. "How do you know he was going to ask me in the drawing room?" Seeing her sister's red face and guilty expression, she exclaimed, "Lizzy!"

Elizabeth held out her hands in supplication, her expression contrite. "Forgive me, Jane. I didn't wish to interrupt your conversation."

"So you eavesdropped?" Jane was incredulous although she knew she should not be so surprised. It was Elizabeth, after all. Her curiosity always got the better of her.

"No! Well, yes...but, only because I didn't wish to leave you in a compromising situation." Elizabeth bit her lip as she glanced at her sister's skeptical expression.

Jane shook her head, smiling despite her sister's impropriety. "Well, you weren't a very good sentry, sister dear. Mr. Darcy still interrupted us."

Elizabeth huffed. "I tried to stop him, Jane. But he was determined." With a sly look at her sister, she asked, "What did the good Colonel do that made you gasp?"

Jane blushed becomingly. Clearing her throat, she stammered, "Richard took my hand."

Elizabeth arched her brow, her eyes dancing with delight at her sister's slip of the tongue. "Richard?" she teased, watching in amusement as her sister's blush deepened.

"In my thoughts he is always 'Richard,'" Jane admitted sheepishly.

"Of course he is! I don't mean to tease, Jane. I am just delighted that you have found such a good man as the Colonel. I will be proud to call him 'brother.'" Still wanting to find out the other two times the Colonel was thwarted in declaring himself, Elizabeth asked her sister again.

Jane leaned back on the bench, huffing in exasperation. "The first time was in the park. Richard directed us off the main pathway, and I thought for sure it was to declare himself. He seemed so nervous but resolute; it was quite endearing, actually. But before he could utter a word, we came to the clearing and found Mr. Williamson." Her eyes widened, and she sat up and said hurriedly, "Not that I regret seeing Mr. Williamson. Indeed, I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to meet him."

Elizabeth nodded in understanding. So that was why the Colonel had looked so despondent during their conversation with Mr. Williamson. Her mind wandered to her uncle and Fitzwilliam's meeting with that gentleman at that very moment, sending another silent prayer that it went well. "And the third time?"

"Just before Mr. Bingley's arrival."

Elizabeth's brows shot up. Well, well, the Colonel was serious. To be willing to ask her sister even though they were not alone was very impressive...and promising.

"After Mr. Bingley's arrival interrupted Richard again, I just couldn't stand it anymore. It just seemed so unfair!" In a quieter voice, Jane whispered her unspoken fears for the first time. "Maybe it is just not meant to be."

Elizabeth stared at her sister. "Jane! How can you say that? Of course it is." She paused as a thought entered her mind. "Jane, you do love the Colonel, don't you? You haven't just convinced yourself that you love him because you want to be in love?"

"Yes. I do love him," Jane said with conviction. "In fact, I didn't realize how much until I met Mr. Bingley."

"What do you mean?"

Jane paused briefly, her expression contemplative. "Do you remember that conversation we had several weeks ago when you asked me what I wanted in a man?" At her sister's nod, she continued, "Mr. Bingley is just the sort of man I would have seen myself falling in love with. He is amiable, charming, intelligent, generous, and handsome. Indeed, he is everything I thought I wanted in my future spouse. But compared to Richard..." Jane's voice trailed off, and she shrugged, "he comes up wanting. I have no doubt that I would have had a very good life with a man like Mr. Bingley as my husband. But now that I know what I could have with Richard, I find that I will not be happy, truly happy, with anyone but him."

Elizabeth impulsively hugged her sister. "Oh, Jane! He truly is the best of men. Well, after my dear Fitzwilliam, of course."

Jane laughed. "Oh, Lizzy! Will you forgive me for my ungenerous thoughts?"

"Only if you forgive me my eavesdropping." At Jane's smile and soft agreement, Elizabeth continued, "And you are right; my relationship with Fitzwilliam has been practically perfect."

"And quick! My goodness, Lizzy! You met Mr. Darcy one month ago, and already you are engaged."

"Thirty-five days, Jane," Elizabeth corrected. Seeing Jane's confused expression, she clarified, "I saw Fitzwilliam for the first time only thirty-five days ago."

Jane shook her head in wonder. "Isn't it amazing, Lizzy? How everything has fallen into place as if it were meant to be."

Elizabeth smiled as she thought of Fitzwilliam and their brief but intense courtship. She knew her sister was right; it was all meant to be. Everything that had happened confirmed this one fact: they were meant to be together. As she thought this, a feeling of peace and rightness swept over her. She sighed contentedly. Suddenly her happy thoughts were replaced with an image of Fitzwilliam's anguished countenance as he told her earlier that day about his nightmares of them being separated. A sharp pain pierced her heart so unexpectedly it left her breathless. Quickly pushing those disturbing thoughts away, she focused on her sister.

"You know, Jane," Elizabeth began contemplatively. "You only met the Colonel one month ago as well." At her sister's surprised expression, Elizabeth smiled triumphantly. "And look where you are now. He is on the verge of declaring himself and his intentions which are to make you Mrs. Fitzwilliam. So, although you are not yet engaged, I have no doubt that you very soon will be."

Jane smiled happily, a blush suffusing her face. "You're right, of course." With a teasing smile, she added, "Your impatience must be affecting me."

Elizabeth only laughed, grateful that her sister's despondent spirit seemed to have lifted. She knew that Colonel Fitzwilliam was the right man for her sister. Jane needed someone of strong mind and strong will to complement her more shy and reserved nature. They were the perfect balance. Jane deserved a man with a true and constant heart. Despite the Colonel's vacillating behavior towards her sister, she knew it was for a very good reason. She knew instinctively that even if the Colonel had been sent to the continent, he would not have left without declaring himself. They were meant to be as surely as she and Fitzwilliam. She hoped that the good Colonel would find an opportunity to ask her sister again soon, not only for her sister's happiness and peace of mind but also to show Mr. Bingley that Jane's affections lay elsewhere. Her sister spoke, interrupting her musings.

"...Mr. Bingley is well. I cannot imagine what could be wrong."

Elizabeth raised a brow. This was why poor Mr. Bingley kept paying court to Jane. She was incapable of showing anything but kind concern to all, even unwanted suitors. She sighed. "Fitzwilliam is meeting Mr. Bingley tomorrow. But if I had to venture a guess it has something to do with his sister." She gave Jane a meaningful look.

Jane shook her head, a concerned expression on her face. "I cannot help but feel sorry for Mr. Bingley for having such a horrid sister."

"Well, at least you won't have to worry about Colonel Fitzwilliam's relations. Lord and Lady Matlock adore you." With a teasing gleam in her eye, Elizabeth added, "But then everyone adores you, Jane."

Jane smiled and sighed, casting an exasperated and long suffering look at her dearest sister. She stood and smoothed the wrinkles from her white muslin gown. As Elizabeth stood, Jane linked her arm with her sister's and began walking back to the house. Elizabeth told her sister about their uncle and Fitzwilliam's meeting with Mr. Williamson.

Jane smiled. "I am glad, Lizzy. Not only for our uncle's sake, but Mr. Williamson's as well."

Elizabeth nodded her head in agreement, her mind wandering again to the meeting between the three gentlemen. She sighed. "I just hope that it goes well. Uncle and Mr. Williamson have suffered enough these past twenty-five years."

Jane gave her sister a reassuring smile. "I am sure it will. Your Mr. Darcy's presence will make it easier for both of them, I imagine. I am not at all surprised that our uncle asked Mr. Darcy to accompany him."

"Nor I. Fitzwilliam will be the perfect mediator."

They entered the drawing room to see their aunt and Lady Eleanor sitting companionably on the sofa. Both pairs of eyes lit up with pleasure as they saw the two young women.

"There you two are! Come, we have news!" Mrs. Gardiner gestured for her two nieces to sit, her countenance unusually animated.

Jane and Elizabeth shared an amused look before sitting. Knowing their aunt, it involved shopping, gossip, or a social outing. Judging by the almost manic gleam in her eye, Elizabeth determined it must be all three. She smiled. This would be the perfect distraction from her thoughts and help pass the time before her uncle and Fitzwilliam returned.

Lady Eleanor wasted no time in turning to Elizabeth and grasping her hand in a firm grip, said warmly, "I know it is not yet official, my dear. But I wanted to tell you how pleased Lord Matlock and I are with your engagement to our nephew."

Elizabeth smiled. "Thank you, Lady Eleanor." Her eyes sparkling with a playful gleam, she added, "I admit to being very pleased myself."

Her aunt and Lady Eleanor laughed. Aunt Gardiner patted Elizabeth's knee. "As you should be, Lizzy. The sooner we make this all official, the better." She gave her niece a knowing look. "I was telling Eleanor how happy I was that you had both come to your senses and decided to ask for your father's permission sooner. Now you can remain here until you are married, and there will be no need for you to return to Longbourn." She smiled brightly at her niece.

She had already spoken to her husband about having Elizabeth stay with them until her marriage. She knew that once Fanny learned that Elizabeth was to marry Mr. Darcy, it would be very unpleasant for her in that household. The sooner Elizabeth was removed from that woman's influence, the better. She knew that they wanted a short engagement, and judging by the interactions she had witnessed between them since their courtship, she thought it very wise for them to marry soon.

Elizabeth looked at her aunt in grateful understanding before shifting her gaze to Lady Eleanor. She knew that her aunt would not have told her friend about how things stood between her and her mother. Carefully, she responded, "Thank you, Aunt, for your kind offer, but I will return to Longbourn with Jane as planned."

Aunt Gardiner studied her niece, and seeing her resolute expression, sighed softly before saying with enthusiasm, "Then we don't have much time to shop for your trousseau!" With that statement, the next thirty minutes were spent discussing all that Elizabeth would need for her marriage to a gentleman of Mr. Darcy's station.

Elizabeth started to feel overwhelmed the longer her aunt and Lady Eleanor talked about all that she needed. Surely they were exaggerating? The sheer number of gowns alone was staggering, not to mention all the other accoutrements that were required. The idea of spending not hours, but days at Madame Cécile's being fitted for an exorbitant number of gowns caused her head to ache. She looked at Jane with an expression akin to horror, but her dear sister only laughed.

"Lizzy, you cannot be surprised. You must know that being a wife, especially to one of Mr. Darcy's station, is much different. Your status will be changed overnight, and your apparel must reflect that."

"I understand that, Jane. I just didn't realize there would be so...much." She looked at her aunt and Lady Eleanor beseechingly. "Is this all really necessary?"

Lady Eleanor gave Elizabeth an understanding smile. "It is rather overwhelming, is it not? I remember how astounded I was when I shopped for my trousseau. I quickly learned that being the daughter of a marquess was nothing compared to becoming the wife of an earl. I had nightmares for weeks of being smothered with rich, brocaded gowns or of wearing nothing at all!"

"Not helping, Eleanor!" Mrs. Gardiner cried as she saw Elizabeth's eyes widen with alarm. She gave her distressed niece a reassuring smile. Clearing her throat, her gaze turned calculating. "If you were to remain in London for the entirety of your engagement, we could spread the shopping out over the next several weeks instead of merely ten days."

Elizabeth raised a brow, shaking her head at her aunt's ill-conceived ploy to persuade her to remain in London. But she couldn't fault her aunt for her deviousness, for she knew that it stemmed from her aunt's worry and love for her. Truth be told, Elizabeth was dreading the moment when her mother realized that Fitzwilliam wished to marry her and not Jane. At the thought of her mother's ire, Elizabeth began to reconsider her need to return home before she married. She gave herself a mental shake.

No. She needed to return home and face her mother. She was not the same young woman who had come to London a mere thirty-five days ago. She knew she was different, more self-assured and confident. Fitzwilliam's love and acceptance had begun to transform her, removing the darkness and bitterness in her soul that she had carried for so long. Every letter that Fitzwilliam wrote to her, every tender gaze and loving caress replaced the lies her mother had spouted from her acerbic tongue since Elizabeth had come of age that she was unworthy of any man's love and esteem. Fitzwilliam was the embodiment of everything her mother said she was unworthy of. And he desired and wanted her. Her mother was wrong. Elizabeth felt her heart soar at this thought, knowing it was true.

Knowing her mother's past history had given her a glimpse into her mother's heart. Her mother was suffering, and for whatever reason, she took her suffering out on her second eldest daughter. She needed to understand why, and she couldn't unless she returned home. If she didn't confront her mother now, she feared that she never would, and thus the scar on her heart would remain an open wound. That was unacceptable. Forgiveness was the only way to completely remove the taint of her mother's disdain. For this reason, she would return home.

Her expression resolute, she repeated her earlier sentiment, "I will return home with Jane, Aunt."

Aunt Gardiner sighed, knowing a lost cause when she saw one. She understood even if she didn't agree with her niece's decision. She had been astounded when Edward had informed her that Elizabeth wished to forgive her mother. In her opinion, that woman didn't deserve such a gift. "Very well, Lizzy. I will say no more about it." Deciding a change of subject was needed, she turned to her oldest and dearest friend and said, "Do you want to tell the girls or should I?"

Elizabeth caught the mischievous gleam in her aunt's eye and sighed with relief, grateful her aunt had dropped the subject. They had talked about shopping; now it was to be either gossip or a social event of the season. "Tell us what?"

Aunt Gardiner shared a knowing look with Lady Eleanor before turning to her nieces. "I should not be so pleased with this particular bit of news, but I cannot find it in my heart to care too much. She brought it on herself after all."

Elizabeth immediately realized to whom her aunt was referring: Miss Bingley. She looked at her sister to determine if she had deduced the nature of their aunt's news. Jane was gazing at their aunt with an expression of polite interest but not of understanding.

"The unfortunate Miss Bingley has been effectively barred from the higher levels of society. Lady Worthington wasted no time in relaying to all and sundry that Miss Bingley had insulted a friend of hers and Lady Eleanor's." Mrs. Gardiner shook her head, a disgusted look on her face. "Apparently she was turned away last night from Lord Waverly's ball." She leaned in and whispered, "She made it worse by not leaving quietly. Made quite a spectacle of herself, in fact. She even shouted that she was a particular friend of Mr. Darcy, and that when he heard how she had been treated, he would be outraged."

Elizabeth's mouth dropped open in astonishment. "The woman must be completely mad! What self-respecting woman shouts out a gentleman's name in such a way?" Her expression changed to one of horror. "Good heavens! You don't think the ton believes her, do you? Why, it could be construed that their relationship is...is..." Elizabeth paled at the implications of Miss Bingley's outburst. No wonder Mr. Bingley was so out of sorts this afternoon! His sister had practically shouted that his friend, her Fitzwilliam, was involved with his sister in an improper way.

Seeing Elizabeth's anxiety, Lady Eleanor was quick to reassure her future niece. "No, my dear. Please don't be unduly alarmed. Lady Worthington is very effective and very thorough. Her good opinion once lost is lost forever. (1) Losing Lady Worthington's good opinion is tantamount to losing society's favor which was why she was turned away from Lord Waverly's without a second thought. That is what happens when you cross Lady Worthington and why she is respected as much as she is feared. Miss Bingley made a gross miscalculation by insulting you at Darcy's birthday dinner, one that she has paid for most dearly."

Elizabeth was speechless. She never imagined that the consequences for Miss Bingley insulting her would be so dire. She knew that Fitzwilliam had broken all connection with her, but this! Despite her horrid behavior toward Elizabeth, she couldn't help but feel that this was too much, too high a price to pay for moment of jealous spite.

Knowing her niece, Mrs. Gardiner said, "Don't you dare feel sorry for her, Lizzy! She brought this on herself. Such a one as Miss Bingley does not deserve to be welcomed into polite society. In my opinion, it is long overdue."

Elizabeth was quiet as she contemplated her aunt's words. She looked at Jane who had been strangely silent. Unsurprisingly, Jane was distraught, her eyes full of barely concealed regret.

"This is my fault," Jane whispered. "If I hadn't behaved so horribly to her and thrown my glass of ratafia in her face, this could have all been cleared up." Jane turned anguished eyes to her sister.

Dear Jane. Elizabeth huffed a laugh, sharing a look with her aunt. "If I am not allowed to feel sorry for Miss Bingley, then you are definitely not allowed to blame yourself. She is culpable for her own actions. As much as I believe the consequence is rather harsh, it is done. She has no one to blame but herself."

Jane looked away, her expression conflicted.

Lady Eleanor cleared her throat. "I do feel badly for Mr. Bingley. Since he was his sister's escort to the ball, he had to leave to take her home. He didn't return."

"He was not banned from the ball, was he?" Elizabeth cried.

"No, not exactly. But if he wishes to remain in polite society, he will have to distance himself from his sister," Lady Eleanor explained. "This is why I feel badly for him. He must choose: society or his sister."

"That seems so unfair!" Jane exclaimed. "Punish an entire family for one person's actions?"

"It is unfair, Jane. But that is the way of the world. My father had to disinherit me when I married your uncle or lose his standing in society," Mrs. Gardiner explained. "Even with the support of my dear friend here, I am still only tolerated at best. If Edward had not been so successful in his business endeavors, we would not have been as accepted as we have been even with the support of the Earl and Countess of Matlock."

Elizabeth felt ill. This is what she would be entering into with her marriage to Fitzwilliam: a society full of hypocrites who valued status and position over familial ties and friendship. It disgusted her.

"Well! Enough of that! Let's talk of more pleasant things, shall we?"

Elizabeth smiled at her aunt, grateful for her boundless enthusiasm. Two predictable conversation topics had been discussed: shopping and the latest gossip. The only unmentioned topic that remained was an upcoming society event. Her aunt didn't disappoint.

"You will never guess who is giving a ball!"

Elizabeth couldn't suppress her mirth. "I cannot imagine, Aunt. Please tell us." The only ball she had attended thus far had been Sir Reginald Lynton's ball during her first week in London, the event that changed her life forever and brought Fitzwilliam into her life. She hadn't even thought about attending any other balls or had cause to feel she had been missing out on experiencing the "delights of the season" as her aunt so aptly said upon their arrival. Judging by her aunt's excitement, she would be expected to attend this ball. She felt a thrill of anticipation at the thought of finally dancing with Fitzwilliam.

"Marianne, I believe she wishes to tell the girls herself at tea on Friday," Lady Eleanor said with a slight frown, her stern expression belied by the twinkle in her eyes.

Mrs. Gardiner waved her hand dismissively at her dearest friend. "Nonsense! Lady Worthington will not mind a bit."

"Lady Worthington is giving a ball?" Elizabeth asked, her excitement matching her aunt's. "When did this come about? When is it?" Elizabeth hoped she would be able to attend before she returned to Longbourn. It was still the beginning of the season, so it was unlikely that the ball would be sooner than a month away. She felt a slight feeling of disappointment at the thought of missing it.

"Yes, she is. It will be held a week from today." Her aunt beamed at her nieces. "Isn't that wonderful? Lady Worthington hasn't hosted a ball in years. That she is giving one now and at such a time is clear: she is putting her full support behind you and Mr. Darcy. I think she is even hoping your engagement will be announced at her ball."

"A week? How is that possible?" Jane asked incredulously.

Lady Eleanor laughed. "Only Sophie Newton could do it. No other society matron would dare attempt it; not even the patronesses of Almack's would be so audacious. She just decided today, and already everyone is hoping to be invited."

"Why? What is so special about her giving a ball?" Elizabeth asked. The idea of announcing her engagement publicly sent a wave of anxiety mingled with anticipation through her. The idea of being publicly claimed by Fitzwilliam was extremely desirable, but given her opinion of society in general, she had no wish to be the cause of gossip. She knew Fitzwilliam would hate it.

"The last time she gave a ball was...let's see..." Lady Eleanor turned to Mrs. Gardiner. "When was it, Marianne? Ten years ago?"

Mrs. Gardiner nodded. "Yes, it was upon the occasion of that scandal involving the young Countess of Wiltshire."

At her nieces' confused expression, Mrs. Gardiner explained, "Lady Worthington stood up for the young countess by giving a ball, showing society that she did not believe a word of it, and neither should they."

Elizabeth looked blankly at her aunt. "What does this have to do with the reason she is giving a ball now?"

Lady Eleanor smiled. "Is it not obvious? She is giving the ball to dispel any rumors that will circulate about Darcy and Miss Bingley."

"But won't that just confirm their suspicions?" Elizabeth asked with growing agitation. How could drawing attention to the improper statement made by Miss Bingley about Fitzwilliam help dispel the gossip?

Mrs. Gardiner shook her head empathically. "No, my dear. It will have the opposite effect, I assure you. The fact that she has already denounced Miss Bingley publicly and is now giving a ball?" She raised her brows, a mischievous smile on her face. "Well, that will just reinforce the fact that Miss Bingley is not to be believed."

Elizabeth shook her head, her confusion growing. "I still don't understand how that will help. How will society even know why she is giving the ball?" Why did she even care what society thought? She knew Miss Bingley's statement was false. But then the idea of anyone thinking ill of her beloved Fitzwilliam sent a rush of fury through her.

"Why, my dear, she will tell them! Lady Worthington is famous for her candor. It is one of the reasons society likes and fears her so much." Lady Eleanor patted Elizabeth's knee again, her manner reassuring. "Don't worry, my dear. Simply attend the ball and dance with my nephew. Lady Worthington will do the rest." With a sly smile, she added, "But I have to agree with your aunt: Lady Worthington will be hoping to announce your engagement at the ball. There is nothing quite so effective as replacing welcome and happy news with old gossip."

Elizabeth tuned out the chatter of her aunt, sister, and Lady Eleanor, lost in her own thoughts. She alternated between feeling a white hot fury that Miss Bingley could implicate her Fitzwilliam in such an improper way, leading to malicious gossip and pity for the woman. The more she thought about it, the more she agreed with her aunt: Miss Bingley deserved what she received, not for what she did to Elizabeth but for what she did to Fitzwilliam's good name.

(1) I know this quote describes Darcy, but it also applies to the unconquerable Lady W.

~oOOo~

Darcy was silent as he followed Gardiner up the creaky, stained wooden steps to the second floor of a dilapidated boarding house in a less than reputable part of town. Unpleasant odors assailed Darcy's nose, and he subconsciously brought the back of his sleeve to his nose to neutralize the malodorous stench. He was surprised to find that Williamson was staying in such a place. His apparel and overall appearance indicated that he was well-off financially, but perhaps the cost of medicine and doctors had sapped what money he had.

Gardiner appeared to be unaware and unaffected by his surroundings. He had remained silent since leaving his town house and traveling to Williamson's boardinghouse. The closer they drew to their destination, the more nervous and agitated Gardiner became. He held a small wooden chest in his lap, his fingers grasping the wood so tightly that his knuckles turned white. Darcy knew it must contain the letters Williamson had written to Mrs. Bennet all those years ago. He didn't understand Gardiner's reasoning for giving them back to him, but perhaps he needed to show Williamson proof of his duplicity.

As they walked to the door at the end of the dim hallway, Darcy noticed that Gardiner was perspiring, and his breathing had become labored and ragged. Concerned, Darcy reached out, laying a hand on Gardiner's arm. "Are you well, Gardiner?"

Gardiner stopped, running a hand over his head. Taking a shaky breath, he said in a weak voice, "I don't know if I can do this, Darcy."

"You can, Gardiner. He wants to see you. If he didn't, he would have ignored your letter instead of responding immediately. He needs this as much as you do." Darcy willed Gardiner to keep walking, to face his demons head on. He would never be able to put it behind him and move on until he did.

Gardiner straightened, pulling his shoulders back. "You're right," he responded in a resolute voice. "I can do this," he whispered to himself before continuing towards the door behind which held his hope of redemption.

Gardiner paused only a brief moment before knocking firmly on the door. Almost immediately, the door opened, revealing Williamson. The two men stood and stared at one another. Williamson's expression was decidedly wary whereas Gardiner's was determined.

Wordlessly, Williamson stepped away from the door, motioning for them to enter. Darcy followed Gardiner, taking a quick survey of the small room. A four-poster bed dominated the wall to the left, the bed clothes threadbare but seemingly clean. A small table beside the bed was littered with various vials of medicine. In front of the fireplace opposite the bed stood a table and three chairs. A small writing desk, wash stand, and wardrobe completed the sparse furnishings. The smell of illness pervaded the small and uncomfortably hot room.

The three men sat at the table, Gardiner and Williamson across from one another with Darcy between them. Silence filled the room like a thick blanket as Gardiner and Williamson stared at one another, neither willing to be the first to speak, the tension growing with each passing moment.

Darcy watched the two men, their gazes unblinking and fixed as they stared at each other. Neither seemed inclined to be the first to speak which Darcy found slightly exasperating. Gardiner requested the meeting, so he should be the one to speak first. But looking at Gardiner, it was clear to Darcy that the man was not going to speak anytime soon.

Clearing his throat, Darcy opened his mouth, determined to break the palpable silence. "It is good to see you again so soon, Williamson. I am grateful that your excursion to the park earlier did not exhaust you needlessly."

Williamson turned to look at Darcy, bowing his head. "I thank you for your kind concern, Mr. Darcy. But seeing Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth was worth any fatigue I might have suffered."

At the mention of his nieces, Gardiner straightened and his eyes narrowed. "I find it surprising that you would venture to a park that is such a distance from this place, Williamson. It must have been a terrible inconvenience."

Williamson raised his brows, a slight smile gracing his gaunt and pale face. "I admit that I went to that park in the hope of seeing your niece again, Gardiner. Any inconvenience I may have experienced was amply rewarded by not only the pleasure of Miss Elizabeth's company but her sister's as well."

Gardiner worked his jaw, unsure how to take Williamson's honest admission. "I find your confession disturbing, Williamson. You can have nothing at all to say to my nieces, and I must ask you to desist in seeking their company."

"I am not seeking their company, Gardiner. If I were, I would have knocked on your front door."

Gardiner leaned forward in his chair, his eyes indignant. "Like you purposefully sought out Lizzy in the park last Saturday?"

Williamson's pale face flushed red and he looked down. "I didn't mean any harm, Gardiner. Surely you must know that. I could never harm anyone." He looked up, his eyes blazing with righteous anger. "Unlike you."

Gardiner sucked in a breath and clenched his jaw shut to keep from lashing out in anger. He was here to ask forgiveness, not start another disagreement. He turned his head, meeting Darcy's eyes. He stared at the younger man, finding strength in his calm and steady gaze. He took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. "I don't wish to argue with you, Williamson. That is not why I am here."

Williamson leaned forward, his expression curious. "Why are you here, Gardiner? I admit I was astonished to receive your letter. I half expected a visit from those two men you had following me, but I never expected to hear from your directly."

Darcy answered, "Those two men were following you under my behest, not Gardiner's."

Williamson looked at Darcy, his brows furrowed in confusion. "I don't understand. Why would you have men follow me, Mr. Darcy?"

"Because I feared for Elizabeth's safety, Williamson," he replied. "After your peculiar behavior at the Royal Menagerie and Gardiner's assumption that you would be out for revenge, I hired men to protect Elizabeth, Miss Bennet, and Mrs. Gardiner."

Williamson stared at Darcy, understanding dawning on his features. He looked at Gardiner and in an unsteady voice, asked, "Did you really think I was capable of such a thing, Gardiner? That I could harm innocent women?" In a raised voice, he continued, "What kind of monster do you think I am?"

Gardiner held up his hands in a conciliatory gesture. "I didn't know, Williamson, but I had to take precautions." Gardiner licked his lips nervously. "And I felt you would seek revenge after what I did to you and Fanny."

Williamson studied Gardiner for a long moment. "So that's it," he said quietly. "That is why you are here. To explain what really happened." He leaned forward, piercing Gardiner with an intense stare. "I already know what happened, Gardiner. I just want to know why."

Gardiner swallowed, forcing himself to meet Williamson's censorious gaze. "You weren't good enough for my sister, Williamson."

Williamson slumped against the chair, his expression dejected. "Not good enough? Because I was not a landed gentleman? Because I was poor?" His voice gained strength as he spoke, his expression irate. "What about Fanny? What about her desires and wishes? She felt I was good enough. Why was that not enough for you to give us your blessing?"

Gardiner rubbed a hand over his face. The whys at this juncture were worthless and immaterial. "Williamson, Bennet had already asked my father for Fanny's hand in marriage before you ever arrived in Meryton. He felt that she was too young, so he asked him to wait. He did. And then you arrived and turned Fanny's head." He pierced Williamson with his gaze. "She was always meant for Bennet. My father would never have given you his blessing to marry his daughter."

Williamson shook his head. "I cannot believe that, Gardiner. Your father thought highly of me-"

"That didn't mean he found you worthy of his daughter, Williamson," Gardiner interrupted. He took a deep breath before placing the small wooden chest on the table in front of him. "This is why I am here."

Williamson eyed the chest with disgust. "Another bride, Gardiner? If you're here to convince me through pecuniary means to stay away from Fanny's daughters, then you can save your money and your breath. I will not speak to your nieces again. Now get out."

Williamson stood, glaring down at the man who had ruined his hope for happiness. The man who had lied and kept him from the only woman whom he had ever loved. He had hoped to see some remorse on Gardiner's face for what he had done. Instead, he was still trying to excuse his mistakes, to cover up his past with money. The only thing that mattered was that Fanny had agreed to marry him, not Bennet. And her brother had done everything he could to separate them. And why? Because he was poor and therefore, unworthy of a solicitor's daughter.

Darcy stood when Williamson did and urged him to sit back down. He had noticed through the increasingly heated conversation with Gardiner that Williamson was becoming gradually paler and weaker. He worried that the excitement was not good for the dying man's health. He feared if both men didn't reign in their tempers and achieve closure today, it would never happen. Williamson would die, embittered and alone, and Gardiner would continue to berate himself for the rest of his life, never achieving peace.

"Williamson, may I get you something? You look very ill."

Williamson looked at Darcy, blinking in confusion before wavering unsteadily on his feet. He abruptly sat back down, resting his head on one hand. He waved away Darcy's concern, saying, "It's just a dizzy spell. I stood up too quickly; it will pass in a moment."

Darcy looked at Gardiner, gesturing to the chest. At the sound of the chest being opened, Williamson looked up, his eyes blazing with anger.

"I said that I don't want your money, Gardiner."

Wordlessly, Gardiner removed the bundle of letters and a ring from the chest, placing them in front of the man before him.

Williamson stared at the letters, his face draining of all remaining color. He held his breath, slowing letting it out before reaching for the bundle of letters. With shaking hands, he untied the ribbon holding the letters together, letting it slide heedlessly to the floor. Numb fingers slowly examined each letter as his quiet voice counted each one meticulously. When he was done, he gave a cursory glance at the mourning ring he had worn for twenty-five years before looking up at Gardiner.

"When Miss Elizabeth told me that Fanny had married Bennet, that she had not waited for me, my first thought was that she had lied to me. That she had not loved me as I loved her. Even knowing that you had lied about Fanny dying, I believed this." Holding up the letters, he said with extreme emotion, "She did love me, Gardiner. She didn't wait because you kept my letters from her." He carefully put the letters on the table, his hand resting on them like a benediction. "I allowed myself to hope that it was so, but I never truly believed it. Even after learning that Fanny had named the child that looked like her 'Elizabeth,' I still questioned her faithfulness to me. Now, I have irrefutable proof that she loved me as I loved her."

Williamson dropped his head to his chest as ragged sobs shook his frail body. Bringing a hand up to cover his face, he gave way to his tears, sobbing out the despair he had felt since learning that Fanny had not died and had instead married another.

Darcy wordlessly passed Williamson his handkerchief, his heart full of compassion for the man before him who was broken in body and spirit. He looked at Gardiner to see that his eyes were bright with unshed tears. The time for healing old wounds had finally come.

"Williamson," Gardiner called softly after a moment of respectful silence. When he didn't answer, Gardiner said in a louder voice, "John."

Williamson looked up, wiping his face with Darcy's handkerchief, his expression void of malice and anger.

Holding Williamson's gaze, Gardiner said in a clear, firm voice, "I am here to make amends, to ask you to forgive me for the wrong I committed against you." Gardiner paused, ready to tell Williamson again why he had done so but decided that it was not necessary. He simply said with heartfelt remorse, "I am sorry, John. Will you forgive the pain I have caused you?"

Williamson stared at Gardiner for an indeterminate length of time. Finally, he closed his eyes and sighed. Pushing the letters toward Gardiner, he answered, "I do forgive you, Gardiner. But please, give my letters to their intended recipient. That is all I ask."

Gardiner blanched but took the letters, placing them in the wooden chest once again. He gestured toward the ring, "You gave this to my niece. Would you like it back?"

Williamson shook his head. "No, it has served its purpose," he answered quietly. Raising his head to meet Gardiner's steady gaze, he asked, "Would you make the same choice, Gardiner? If you had the chance?"

Gardiner pursed his lips, considering Williamson's question. He told Elizabeth that he would make the same choice, that he had made the best decision for his sister. But seeing Williamson again, the pain that his decision had cost him, made him rethink his previous position. He was not sure if he would follow the same path, and he told Williamson so.

Williamson smiled wryly. "I think that you have finally learned to be honest with me...and with yourself."

Gardiner stood, holding out his hand to Williamson. When he clasped it, he said, "Thank you, Williamson. You are a good man. I don't know if I could forgive the one who had wronged me as I did you."

"Dying gives one perspective, Gardiner," he answered candidly.

"Is there nothing that can be done for you?"

Williamson sighed and shook his head. "No, I am afraid not." He huffed a laugh, running a hand though his sparse hair. "I came back home to die, Gardiner. I never expected this turn of events upon my return. But I see now that it was meant to be. God had a hand in this, Gardiner. It was not coincidence that I saw your niece that day at the Royal Menagerie, nor that I spoke to her in the park and learned the truth about Fanny. Despite the heartache and the turmoil I have experienced these past five days, I am grateful for it. Now I can die in peace and with a clear conscience."

Gardiner nodded his head to Williamson and picking up the wooden chest, walked toward the door, his heart light.

Darcy held out his hand to Williamson. "Thank you for your time, Williamson."

"Not at all, Mr. Darcy. My curiosity would not be satisfied until I knew what he wanted." With a thoughtful look towards the door where Gardiner had just exited, he added, "I am glad I decided to see him. I almost didn't, you know. We both needed this."

With a small smile and a nod of his head, Darcy followed Gardiner. As he walked down the stained steps of the boardinghouse, he determined to do something for Williamson to make his last days as comfortable as possible. He was a good and decent man, and he deserved to die with dignity, not in a place that was one step away from abject squalor. He needed to be cautious; the last thing he wanted was to hurt his pride or to make him feel that he was taking charity. Perhaps Elizabeth would have some ideas. He smiled as he pictured her beloved face, and he joined Gardiner in the carriage, eager to get back to Elizabeth.

~oOOo~

When Darcy and Gardiner entered the drawing room, all conversation among the three ladies of the house abruptly stopped. Mrs. Gardiner jumped up in delight, relieved to see her husband outside his study or their bedchamber. When he had informed her the night before that he was going to seek forgiveness from Mr. Williamson, she had wept tears of relief and joy. Learning what her beloved husband had done had been a terrible blow. She had never been blind to his faults, but she had loved him in spite of them. But knowing that he had deliberately separated two young lovers from each other had pierced her heart with the injustice of it all, especially since Fanny and Mr. Williamson's story was not so very different from her and Edward's. She and Edward had been mismatched lovers, unequal in the eyes of society and her father, but they had chosen to face their wrath rather than be separated.

The last five days had been some of the most difficult in their marriage. She had put aside her personal feelings and opinions on the matter in order to help Edward deal with the decision he made all those years ago. She had watched him struggle as he came to terms with his dishonesty, soothing his pain and troubled heart with words of love and encouragement. She had faith in him that he would make things right. He was a man who valued character above all, and it had been a terrible blow to realize that he had not lived up to the ideals he espoused. She knew he was a good man, and she was proud of him.

"Welcome home, my darling," Mrs. Gardiner whispered as she kissed her husband on the cheek. She searched his eyes for the pain he had carried for the past five days. It was gone, absolved. He was unburdened, and her heart rejoiced. "All is well," she stated with certainty.

Gardiner clasped the wife of his youth and the holder of his heart to his chest as he confirmed, "All is well." He amended that statement, saying, "As soon as I talk to our niece."

Mrs. Gardiner smiled. "I think you will find her very amenable to that idea, Edward. Lizzy has been haunting the hallway outside your study for five days."

Gardiner nodded his head. "I know. Let us speak to her now."

Mrs. Gardiner was pleased that Edward wished for her to be present, but she was astonished when he addressed not only Elizabeth, but Jane and Mr. Darcy as well.

As soon as her uncle had entered the study, Elizabeth's heart had leapt with joy. As Fitzwilliam took her aunt's place at her side on the sofa and clasped her hand, she had watched her uncle's tender reunion with her aunt. He looked more like the man she had come to know, a man whom she had looked up to and respected since she was a little girl. He had made amends with Mr. Williamson; she could see it in his eyes and his posture. His very being seemed lighter, as if a heavy weight had been lifted from his shoulders. She sighed with relief.

"I assume that your meeting went well?"

Darcy nodded. "As well as could be expected."

Elizabeth nodded, her eyes turning to her uncle as he cleared his throat to get their attention.

"I have something I need to say to you all. Please make yourselves comfortable." He gestured for her aunt to take a seat, but he remained standing. He placed his hands behind his back, gazing at each of them for a long moment.

"First, I would like to apologize for my absence the past five days. It was cowardly and selfish of me. I hid my shame from my family instead of facing it like a man." He took a deep breath, his gaze meeting Elizabeth's. "I ignored you, Lizzy. I am sorry, my dear."

Elizabeth smiled. "I understand, Uncle."

Gardiner nodded. "I needed time. I have kept the secret of what I did to your mother and Williamson for so long that when it became known, I didn't know how to act or how I should feel. The last five days I have experienced a gamut of emotions. I am ashamed to admit that during the majority of that time, I tried to convince myself that my actions were justified, that what I had done was my right as Fanny's brother and guardian. To the eyes of society, that is true. But I have always strived to hold myself to a higher standard, and when I realized that I had failed in doing so..." Gardiner stopped as he tried to compose himself. "Let me just say that it was a very rude awakening. I had deceived not only Williamson but my family and myself. After some intense soul searching, I realized the only way to move past it all was to forgive myself and ask for Williamson's forgiveness.

"I admit that I am still struggling with forgiving myself. I have seen my error and have realized that my arrogance has harmed those I claim to love, and that fact is difficult to bear. I cannot change the past, but I have asked Williamson's forgiveness, and now I need to ask for yours. Will you forgive a foolish old man?"

Jane and Elizabeth arose with alacrity and embraced their uncle. "Of course, Uncle," they responded. Elizabeth added, "You're not an old man!"

The three laughed, and he kissed each of their foreheads.

As Elizabeth resumed her seat next to Fitzwilliam, she felt a heavy burden lift from her heart. Her uncle had made a terrible mistake and had kept it hidden for twenty-five years, and the guilt had slowly eaten away at his soul. When faced with the possibility of his guilt being known, he had shamefully tried to cover it up instead of admitting his error.

He had convinced himself that his motives were pure. He had many reasons for what he had done, but the foremost reason had been fear; he had feared what others would think of him, especially his wife, Elizabeth, and Jane. The idea of losing their respect had paralyzed him and had kept him from confessing his error. Once it was known, he was finally able to move past that fear and face what he had done to Mr. Williamson and to her mother.

Elizabeth marveled that this had all come about because of a chance meeting at the Royal Menagerie. But as Mr. Williamson had said when she first talked with him in the park, he saw it not as chance but as divine will. The process had been emotionally painful for all involved, most especially for Mr. Williamson and her uncle, but she was grateful that it had happened. Her uncle needed to let go of the secret that had been cankering his soul, and Mr. Williamson needed to learn what had really happened with her mother so that he could die in peace. Her mother...Elizabeth's head snapped up. Was her uncle going to tell her mother what he had done? Did she already know?

Hesitantly, Elizabeth asked, "Uncle, what about my mother? What are you going to tell her?"

Gardiner's countenance dropped. Fanny. What could he say to his embittered sister? Would it even make a difference? "I don't know, Lizzy," he replied honestly. He gestured to the table that held the chest with Williamson's letters. "I have Williamson's letters to her, and he asked me to give them to her..." his voice trailed off, and he swallowed with difficulty. "Telling my sister what I did will be extremely difficult, but I need to do it. I will do it." Eventually.

"So she doesn't know why Mr. Williamson really left? Or that he asked her to wait for him?" Elizabeth asked, her distress evident in her tone and expression.

"No, Lizzy, she does not," Gardiner answered softly.

Elizabeth's heart dropped. She had hoped that her mother knew something, but to learn that she knew nothing... Coming to a quick decision, Elizabeth stood and moved toward her uncle. Pointing to the chest, she asked, "May I give them to her, Uncle?"

Mrs. Gardiner moved to Elizabeth's side. "Lizzy, are you sure? Your uncle will give them to her; there is no need for you to do so. It may strengthen your mother's animosity towards you."

Elizabeth lifted her chin, keeping her gaze fixed on her uncle. "Uncle?"

Gardiner searched Elizabeth's face, seeing her fierce determination. He sighed. He didn't know why she wished to do it, and he was reluctant to give her the opportunity, but he would. He just hoped that he was not making another mistake. "I will, Lizzy, but know that you may give it back to me if you change your mind."

"I won't, Uncle, but thank you. I don't know why, but I need to do this."

Elizabeth picked up the small wooden chest with a sure knowledge beating in her breast that the contents would liberate not only her mother but herself as well.

A/N: Well. There's a lot happening in this chapter. I am sure you have something to say, good or bad, so please tell me. I want to thank everyone who reviewed last chapter, especially you silent/anonymous reviewers :) I was able to respond to every review that had PM enabled.

Next chapter: Elizabeth goes to Darcy House for lunch and has a heart-to-heart with Georgiana. Darcy will talk to Bingley. Will Darcy make it back in time for Elizabeth's tour? *wink wink*

Chapter 36: Darcy goes to Longbourn!

Please review to feed my muse!

Much love,

MAH