As the Season drew to a close, Darcy, Georgiana, and Elizabeth prepared to journey to Pemberley where they were to spend the summer months. Mrs. Annesley retired as planned and moved to Lincolnshire to live with her daughter.
Nights on the road were spent in establishments often frequented by the Darcys. Elizabeth had witnessed Darcy’s thoughtfulness with respect to members of his staff at Darcy House. It amazed her to see him extend that same level of courtesy to the innkeepers and their staffs. It was a new experience for Elizabeth to travel in a fashion second nature to the Darcys. They were treated as royalty by the proprietors. They dined in private rooms and slept in the finest suites. That in conjunction with the luxurious Darcy coach, made the long journey to Pemberley seem no hardship at all.
The pleasant weather afforded Darcy the occasion to ride on horseback throughout most of the journey. Towards the journey’s end, upon entering Pemberley Woods, he had the carriage stop so that he could join Elizabeth and Georgiana inside. He woke Elizabeth with a light touch upon her hand. Darcy placed his finger to his lips to hush her, wishing to avoid stirring Georgiana. Quietly, he handed her out of the carriage and led her along a path to a landing that afforded a picturesque view of Pemberley House.
Enjoying the view of Pemberley from afar, Darcy stood as closely behind Elizabeth as possible without actually touching, closer than propriety dictated. Wanting nothing more than to wrap his arms around her to capture her in his embrace, he fought the temptation by clasping his hands together behind his back. Elizabeth was increasingly conscious of his nearness but too caught up in the magnificence and splendour of Pemberley to be overly concerned. The panoramic view was wonderfully breath-taking. Elizabeth stood entranced. I have never seen a place for which nature has done more, or where natural beauty has been so little counteracted by an awkward taste. Every disposition of the ground is good. Equally captured by the moment, Darcy leaned forward and placed his hand along the small of Elizabeth’s back while he pointed out another view of Pemberley Woods, but only for a moment before he remembered himself and resumed his former stance. Darcy for so long had dreamed of the occasion when he would bring Elizabeth to that spot. He relished their private moment together. The sweet-smelling scent of her hair intoxicated him. He longed to run his fingers through the soft, luxurious tresses cascading over her shoulders and down her back. Facing away from him, Elizabeth was oblivious to Darcy’s increasing discomfort.
Georgiana awakened to find herself all alone in the carriage. Upon drawing the shades back, she immediately recognised her surroundings. Knowing her brother as she did, she quickly surmised where he had taken Elizabeth. She set off upon the path and came upon Darcy and Elizabeth rather hastily. Upon observing Darcy’s closeness to Elizabeth, Georgiana suddenly realised that her brother more than just admired her friend. Thinking her brother the most honourable man in the world, she wondered if he had fallen in love with Elizabeth. Why else would he exhibit such behaviour? Never before had Darcy been less pleased to see his sister than at that moment. On the other hand, he could not have been more grateful, for he was about to place his hand upon the small of Elizabeth’s back once again, to point out another site. As Georgiana approached, Darcy moved away from Elizabeth, to a distance a few steps off, to allow his ardour to subside. Georgiana took hold of Elizabeth’s hand and led her to another spot where she began pointing out her own favourite sites. Soon, Darcy escorted the young women back to the carriage. He joined them inside so that he could continue to point out areas of interest to Elizabeth as they resumed the journey to Pemberley.
The warm reception from the entire Pemberley staff towards Darcy and Georgiana upon their arrival at the manor house was encouraging. It delighted Elizabeth to receive a fair share of that warmth when introduced to Darcy’s housekeeper, Mrs. Reynolds. Darcy asked Mrs. Reynolds to see to it personally that Elizabeth was comfortably settled into their home.
As Mrs. Reynolds gave Elizabeth a brief tour of the grand house, she spoke at length of Darcy’s admirable qualities. Elizabeth could see that the elderly woman took enormous pleasure in speaking of her young master. She encouraged her by asking questions on things she did not yet know of him and remarking on the things she knew all too well.
This is going pretty far, Elizabeth thought, when Mrs. Reynolds fretted that her master might never marry; her thought being that no one was good enough for him. Still she listened with increasing astonishment. When Mrs. Reynolds spoke of his amiability as a child, and how he was always the sweetest-tempered and most generous-hearted boy in the world, Elizabeth thought, Are we talking about the same person? Cognizant that Darcy was her employer as well, and not wishing to cause offence, she said, “Pemberley is lucky in having such a master.”
Indeed, the housekeeper continued, saying it was no wonder he was so good-natured now that he was all grown up. Elizabeth almost stared at her. Can this be Mr. Darcy? Elizabeth listened, wondered, doubted, and was impatient for more. And more commendation of Mr. Darcy is just what Mrs. Reynolds imparted.
Upon completion of her tour of the house, Elizabeth considered all that she had heard. In what an amiable light does this place him! As a brother, a landlord, and a master, how many people’s happiness are in his guardianship! How much of pleasure or pain it is in his power to bestow! How much of good or evil must be done by him! Every idea brought forward by his housekeeper is favourable to his character. Elizabeth could not help but admit that she too had seen evidence of some of the admirable qualities attributed to Darcy. However, she had seen evidence of his arrogance and disdain towards others as well; though she readily conceded, she also bore witness to his willingness to change.
During the first week of his return, Darcy was hidden away in his study, often with his steward, Mr. Fletcher, managing Pemberley affairs. He trusted his steward to take care of the estate in his absence, but Darcy was in full command when he returned. As a testament to the housekeeper’s strong praise, Darcy worked from sun up to sun down and late into the nights to catch up on things from his prolonged absence. When he was not working in his study poring over estate accounts, he was out among the tenants, attending to various concerns. This came as no surprise to Georgiana as she was all too aware of her brother’s propensity to immerse himself in work upon his return to Pemberley. Elizabeth, however, was somewhat bothered. As much as she loved spending time with Georgiana, the longer she went without seeing Darcy, the more she missed his company.
Then again, Elizabeth was enjoying her freedom at Pemberley immensely. She woke early and set off each morning on long, solitary walks. She was careful not to venture too far from the house and restricted her rambles to the paths that Darcy had pointed out to her on her first day. She always returned in time to enjoy mid-morning breakfast with Georgiana, who had not been an early riser in London and tended to arise even later at Pemberley.
One morning, Elizabeth came back from her walk earlier than usual. She did not expect to see Darcy sitting in the breakfast room, reading the paper and drinking coffee. As she entered the room, he stood to greet her with a warm smile.
“Miss Elizabeth, it is a pleasure to see you this morning. I trust you enjoyed your morning stroll.”
“Yes, I did, sir. It was very refreshing. I am thoroughly enjoying this freedom,” she stated cheerfully. Elizabeth excused the servant as she prepared her own plate. “I am surprised to see you this morning. I was beginning to think you had escaped to town.”
“No, I did not. Have I neglected you, Miss Elizabeth?” he teased. Before she could respond to his taunt, he said, “Allow me to make amends immediately. I am about to go for a quick ride. Please join me.”
“On horseback?”
“Yes, of course.”
“I will have to decline your invitation. I do not ride on horseback. I never learnt to ride. There, I am not so accomplished after all.”
“You have never ridden on horseback, Miss Elizabeth?”
“No, never,” she answered truthfully.
“Then, we must address that straight away. Georgiana loves to ride, and we spend a great deal of time riding during the summer. I will simply have to teach you.”
“As busy as you are, I would hate to keep you from more pressing matters.”
“Nothing would give me more pleasure. Let us get started today. Since you may not have a proper riding habit, change into whatever you think is best. This afternoon, the three of us will go into Lambton to shop.” Before Elizabeth could protest, Darcy said, “Meet me in my study as soon as you are ready,” as he walked out of the room.
A half hour later, Elizabeth and Darcy headed towards the stables. He said, “Thank you for agreeing to this without opposition, Miss Elizabeth.”
“You make it rather difficult to say no, but I must confess I do not like horses.”
“Why is that?”
“I saw my sister fall from a horse when we were small children. She broke her arm during the fall. While she recovered from the experience and even went on to become an excellent rider, I never got over it.”
“Trust me, Miss Elizabeth, you have nothing to fear. I will never let you fall, and I believe you will soon come to love the horse I have chosen for you.”
As they approached the stables, a groomsman led a magnificent chestnut mare to them and handed the reins to Darcy. Elizabeth was reluctant to come close to the horse, so disinclined that Darcy handed the reins back over to the groom, walked over to Elizabeth and took her delicate hands into his. Purposely, he spoke very softly. “Please trust me. Georgiana was also afraid of horses initially, but I taught her to ride.” As he gently massaged the back of her hands, he said, “Close your eyes.”
Elizabeth briefly hesitated, and then willingly went along. Darcy continued, “Now breathe slowly, calmly.” Nearly whispering, he said, “You are safe with me. I will protect you. I will always protect you. Do you trust me?”
Elizabeth shook her head in assent. Darcy continued. “Please do not be afraid. This first lesson... all of your lessons will go smoothly.” Continuing to stroke the back of her hands with his fingertips, he said softly, “I will take my time with you. We will go as fast or as slowly as you wish. If at any time, you feel we are moving too fast... that I am rushing you... tell me to stop. And I will. I will stop. I want you to enjoy this.”
Darcy modulated his tone to one that was even more soothing. “We have plenty of time to do this... all day... all week... all summer, if that is what it takes. This is but the first step.” Pausing a moment longer and slowing his cadence, “You feel completely safe and comfortable with me. You trust me.” Slowly caressing the back of her hands and each of her fingers, he continued, “I have chosen the gentlest mare in my stables for you. She is beautiful. Her name is Bella.”
Darcy instinctively released one of Elizabeth’s hands and gently brushed a lock of her hair to the side of her face. “I will stay by your side, I promise. I will not leave you.” After a few moments, he sensed that Elizabeth was totally relaxed. He took the reins of the horse (which the groom had brought closer). Darcy continued, “You trust me. I am right here. Open your eyes.”
Elizabeth was so mesmerised by Darcy’s soft, soothing, yet stimulating voice, that upon opening her eyes, she was not a bit uneasy finding herself within inches of the horse. Looking at the horse and stroking her mane, Darcy said, “See Bella... she is beautiful.” Turning towards Elizabeth, he asked, “Would you like to touch her coat to feel its softness?” Elizabeth agreed. She allowed Darcy to place her hand on Bella’s neck and gently guide her strokes. Soon, Darcy released his hold upon Elizabeth’s hand to allow her to interact with Bella, while he stepped a foot or so away and drank some of the cold water offered to him by the groom.
“She is beautiful, sir,” Elizabeth expressed, after a few moments.
“I would like to guide you once around the stable yard. I am going to help you saddle, and I will maintain the reins to lead Bella. Is that acceptable?” he asked as he returned close to her side.
Elizabeth silently consented. Darcy gently lifted her to place her in the saddle. After checking to see that she was properly secured and guiding her into the correct position atop the horse, he said, “I am going to lead Bella, but I will be right here.”
Darcy guided Bella into a slow pace as he led her along the boundary of the stable yard. After a couple of laps, Darcy commented, “You are an excellent student, Miss Elizabeth.” Seeking a change of pace, he asked, “Are you comfortable with one more lesson this morning?”
“What do you have in mind?” she questioned with some trepidation.
“I am thinking of a slow gallop.”
“How will we manage that? I am not ready to do this without you. How do you plan to keep up?”
“Let me show you. Now, close your eyes again... and trust me,” he responded. She did as he asked. Darcy climbed atop of Bella, behind Elizabeth.
Elizabeth did not hesitate to open her eyes once she realised she was practically sitting in Darcy’s lap. She protested, “Sir, I do not think this is proper.”
“Relax. I am the teacher after all. Believe me, this is an acceptable technique. Now close your eyes. I will tell you when to open them. Trust me.”
Once Elizabeth closed her eyes, Darcy prompted Bella into a slow gait. After a few circuits around the yard, he set out on a path that led to one of his favourite spots. He brought Bella to a halt and asked Elizabeth to open her eyes to the view of a beautiful Grecian love temple situated beside a rather large pond. The temple was a large circular structure with an open, airy design that boasted six imposing stone pillars and a black domed top, surrounded by a variety of shrubbery bushes and flowers. Inside, there was a purposefully arranged iron seating set. Elizabeth was so delighted that she did not protest Darcy’s actions in taking her far beyond the stables. He dismounted and helped Elizabeth to get down. After securing Bella, he offered his arm to Elizabeth, and they walked to the temple.
Elizabeth expressed with utter delight, “This is the most beautiful place!”
“Yes, it is one of my favourite places. I thought you would enjoy seeing it. I often come here when I am overwhelmed and in need of solitude.”
“You have granted me access into your private sanctuary. What shall you do if I begin to come here often?”
“I would not worry about that. Your eyes were closed. Besides, you can only get here on horseback.”
Darcy spoke at length on the history of the temple. His grandfather had commissioned its building as a tribute to his grandmother. Darcy related some of his childhood memories associated with the spot. Seeing that side of Darcy amazed Elizabeth. She resisted the urge to stare at him. His entire demeanour changed. As she listened to him speak enthusiastically of his love for Pemberley, she considered that he was arresting, engaging, and pleasing. She wondered, Who is this man, and what has he done with Mr. Darcy?
Soon, Darcy decided it was time to head back. After assisting Elizabeth onto the saddle and again guiding her into the correct posture while furthering her lesson by explaining his actions, he mounted Bella. He leaned in closely to her ear and whispered, “Close your eyes.”
“No, not this time,” she responded defiantly.
“Then, prepare yourself for a most thrilling ride.”
“But I trust you, sir.”
“I promise you will not regret it,” Darcy said as he positioned Elizabeth closer to him, much closer than she was before, and urged Bella into a fast gallop. Elizabeth found the excitement of the ride, in combination with the sensations Darcy evoked in her with his hand positioned securely around her waist, as exhilarating as he had suggested it would be.
Still holding her close as they approached the stable, Darcy spoke softly into Elizabeth’s ear, “Shall we have another lesson in the morning?”
“I think it will be best if Georgiana joins us for our next lesson, sir,” she demurred, somewhat bewildered.
“If you insist. I am at your command,” he submitted.
As he reluctantly relinquished his hold, Elizabeth asserted, “I shall remember that the next time I am summoned to your study.”
Elizabeth had come to enjoy Darcy’s company immensely. She liked him very much; perhaps a little too much, she thought. As hard as she fought it, she could not stop herself. She trusted him. She was certain he would never violate her trust. However, despite his words to the contrary, Elizabeth was sure every rule of propriety had been broken on the morning of her riding lesson. She would not think about that; instead, she would simply enjoy the friendship he seemed willing to offer and not expect more. As long as he does not expect anything more of me, she considered. As for her newly discovered regard for Mr. Darcy, that would be her secret. She would not allow him or anyone else any indication of her increased admiration.
Darcy had begun to suspect that Elizabeth’s regard for him had improved significantly. He knew it would be difficult to mask his love for her, now that they were at Pemberley. Indeed, his conundrum was great. There was so much that he wanted to share with her. How could he without raising her expectations? He loved her too much to do anything that would hurt her. Darcy concluded it would help if he kept his hands off of her, and rather, focused upon their growing friendship. That was the only way to proceed. He would have to be content to touch her, caress her, and revere her body solely in his dreams.
Darcy spent the following weeks attending to both Georgiana and Elizabeth. The remaining horseback riding lessons were conducted in Georgiana’s company. Soon, Elizabeth became accomplished enough to ride on her own and explore the sites of Pemberley on horseback, along with the Darcys.
He also began to share breakfast daily with Elizabeth, after her morning walks. He scheduled his days to spend parts of the afternoons and have dinner with the young women. This meant working late into the nights and often early in the mornings.
In spite of their best intentions to mask their increasing regard, especially from each other, Georgiana soon came to realise that not only did Darcy have strong feelings for Elizabeth, but Elizabeth was beginning to care for him, as well. Georgiana was at once both excited that the two people she loved most in the world might be falling in love with each other, and frustrated that they were too stubborn to admit it. While she refused to do anything to interfere, she decided she would allow the two as much time together as necessary to come to their senses.
As much as Georgiana enjoyed horseback riding, she elected not to take part in many of their planned excursions to allow Darcy and Elizabeth to be alone. In the days leading up to Elizabeth’s birthday, she even expended considerable time and effort to organise a celebration picnic, only to feign illness on the day of the event. She had worked, along side of Mrs. Reynolds, to plan an intimate luncheon in an open field of fragrant orchids and wild-flowers. The servants were not to remain once everything was set up.
Therefore, Elizabeth found herself to be relaxing on a blanket, in a beautiful and private setting, alone with Darcy. On that occasion, Darcy removed his jacket and loosened his cravat as he also relaxed on the blanket, but at the opposite end, in an effort to protect Elizabeth’s sensibilities, as well as his own. They just finished eating a light fare when Darcy handed Elizabeth a beautifully wrapped gift.
“Happy birthday, Miss Elizabeth.”
Elizabeth knew of Darcy’s generosity and delight in presenting gifts to Georgiana, so she was not caught off guard by his gesture altogether. She expected a small, insignificant trinket, but upon opening the box, she was stunned to see two lovely pearl bracelets.
“Sir, I cannot accept this gift. It is too much.”
Darcy smiled. He reflected upon how it was nothing compared to what he would have preferred to give her. “Of course you can. This is a gift from Georgiana and me, to you. Georgiana selected it.”
“But sir, I am your employee.”
“You are more than an employee to me, Miss Elizabeth. Let me help with this,” Darcy said as he reached for the bracelets. He took his time as he was securing them on her wrist, rousing Elizabeth’s sensibilities with his intimacy.
“They are beautiful. Thank you,” she said, as she held them up for inspection.
“It is true you know. Yes, you are Georgiana’s companion, but you are also her dearest friend. You mean a great deal to me, as well. Other than Georgiana and Richard, there is no one other than you with whom I feel closer.”
“Not even Mr. Bingley?” she teased.
“That is different.”
“How so?”
“It is just different.” He contemplated a moment and then tentatively, yet softly stated, “I hope it is acceptable that all I can offer is friendship, Miss Elizabeth.”
“Why Mr. Darcy, are you afraid of raising my expectations?” she responded in a haughty voice, aiming to emulate his own.
“Perhaps,” he expressed rather cautiously.
“Well, do not worry. I know it is only a matter of time before Lady Matlock finds the perfect match for you,” she teased, wishing to lighten the mood.
“Oh, I am not worried about that.”
“Why is that? I am certain it is her greatest goal in life.”
“It is quite simple. I know my duty to my family, but I will marry someone of my choosing, or I will not marry at all.” Wanting to do nothing more than to change the subject, he said, “Let us speak of other things. Shall we discuss books? You and I have not sparred since our arrival at Pemberley.”
“I knew it was my impertinence that you found irresistible,” she spoke in jest, prompting Darcy to chuckle. She continued, “So which book shall we discuss today?”
The two settled upon a book they had both read recently and a lively debate ensued. Soon afterwards, Darcy and Elizabeth began reading their own books. Darcy appeared more interested in Elizabeth’s book than he was in his own. She seemed quite amused, judging by her smiles and quiet laughter.
“Why are you so amused?” he could no longer resist asking.
Elizabeth read the last passage of her book again, out loud. “You find that amusing?” he asked, doubt evident in his voice.
“Here, see for yourself,” Elizabeth stated as she pointed to the next humorous passage while handing him her book.
“No, read it to me,” Darcy insisted, refusing the book.
Elizabeth proceeded to read several pages. After a few minutes, she observed that Darcy appeared quite relaxed. In fact, he was fully reclined on the blanket with his eyes closed and his arms positioned behind his head in support.
“Excuse me sir, but why am I entertaining you?” she asked brashly.
“Is it my fault that I find your voice wonderfully pleasing? I could listen to you all day.”
“I am sure of it. I might say the same of you,” Elizabeth responded daringly.
“Fair enough,” he said, as he reached for the book. “It is my turn, madam. Sit back, relax, and listen to the master.”
The two continued in that fashion for nearly a half hour, as they enjoyed seeing who could best pantomime the book’s characters and mimic their voices, before they realised it was time to head back. They arrived back at the house to find Georgiana in the music room practising. She raced over to embrace Elizabeth and admire the bracelets. She apologised profusely for missing the picnic and promised to make it up to her during the special birthday dinner she had planned.
The arrival of the Bingleys, specifically Miss Caroline Bingley, interrupted the tranquillity of the Pemberley household. She arrived like a storm and immediately assumed a proprietary air as she descended the splendid halls, much to the dismay of the entire staff, including Mrs. Reynolds.
Caroline had her sights set on Darcy. Given her standing as the sister of his close friend and, thereby, her frequent presence in Darcy’s beloved home, she felt she had a particular relationship with him. What other potential rival for Darcy’s affections had ever graced the halls of Pemberley? That in itself signalled a special place in his esteem, she believed. Imagine her indignation when she learned that Elizabeth resided in the family wing! Caroline herself always resided in the opposite side of the great home in the guest wing, when she visited. At first, she was positive that it was Georgiana’s doing. However, after observing the interactions between Darcy and Elizabeth during the first couple of days of her visit, she began to wonder.
The misguided young woman was used to Darcy’s focusing upon Georgiana, almost to the exclusion of others. Now, Darcy appeared equally solicitous of Elizabeth, much to Caroline’s dismay. She had not come all this way to play a secondary role to the hired help.
It did not take long for Darcy to realise that Caroline was exhibiting the same petty attitude towards Elizabeth as she had in Hertfordshire. Darcy marvelled at Elizabeth’s ability to outwit Caroline at every turn. The fact remained that she would always be a gentleman’s daughter, even in her position as Georgiana’s companion. That trumped Caroline’s status as the daughter of a tradesman, regardless of her wealth and connections.
Darcy also suspected Caroline was jealous of his attentions towards Elizabeth, because she was even more solicitous and possessive of him when Elizabeth was present. Ever willing to sacrifice, he decided the least he could do was to remove himself from Caroline’s company to limit their exposure to each other, for Elizabeth’s sake. Therefore, Darcy encouraged Bingley, and at times Mr. Hurst, in activities that allowed them to spend as much time apart from the women as possible.
In the absence of the gentlemen’s company, it was only a matter of time until Elizabeth, Georgiana, and even Lady Grace grew weary of Caroline’s and Louisa’s propensity to take pot-shots at Elizabeth. Caroline’s comments were also extended to Elizabeth’s family, sometimes to the point of being harsh, such was her vitriol towards Elizabeth. When Caroline chose to disparage Jane’s working as a governess in Scotland, Elizabeth had endured all she could take, and yet continued to remain civil. Lady Grace was offended deeply on Elizabeth’s behalf. She wondered if all the money in the world could compensate for having to endure such a sister.
Elizabeth, Georgiana, and Lady Grace formed a close bond. The three decided upon pastimes that Caroline and Louisa were not inclined to pursue, such as outdoor activities, for the only time Caroline sought to be out-of-doors was when she thought she might encounter Darcy.
One evening after dinner, while awaiting the gentlemen’s company, Caroline overheard the new sisterhood discussing plans to spend the following morning horseback riding. Anxious to have her share in the conversation, she promptly moved to the other side of the room where the three ladies sat.
“Why, Miss Eliza, my dear,” Caroline condescended, “I did not think you rode horseback. During our time at Hertfordshire, you seemed to take an eager interest in walking throughout the countryside.”
Georgiana responded, “Elizabeth rides very well. My brother taught her.” Georgiana could not resist exacerbating her guest because of the way Caroline shamelessly flaunted herself in front of Darcy.
“Mr. Darcy taught your companion to ride. When did this happen?” Caroline asked, doubting the veracity of what she had heard.
“I learnt to ride since coming to Pemberley. Both Mr. Darcy and Georgiana have been very instrumental in my training.”
The gentlemen chose that moment to join the women, spurring Caroline to seize upon Darcy. She immediately rushed to his side and intertwined her arm with his.
“Mr. Darcy, I understand you taught Miss Eliza to ride. How generous of you... few can boast of having such an attentive master.”
“I do what I can,” he replied as he tried, unsuccessfully to remove her arm from his.
“Is that so? I think I should like to have a few riding lessons myself, if you are still in the business of providing them, that is,” she cajoled, while batting her eyes suggestively.
“Miss Caroline, you are welcome to visit my stables at any time. If you insist upon riding lessons, I will speak with my groom and have him attend you.” Before she could respond, Darcy excused himself from his guests and acted as if he were heading out to make such arrangements.
Bright and early that next day, Lady Grace, Georgiana, and Elizabeth headed towards the stables as planned. They were not alone. It seemed everyone wished to ride that morning. Darcy, Bingley, Mr. and Mrs. Hurst, and finally, Caroline rounded out the party.
Darcy’s groom expected them. Eight fine horses were properly saddled and lined up in the stable yard. Without much thought, Darcy went to Bella’s side, intending to help Elizabeth into her saddle. Caroline immediately lost all interest in the horse she initially favoured. It seemed that Bella was the only choice for her.
“What a beautiful creature, I should be delighted to ride her,” she said, as she quickly approached Darcy.
“Then, I am afraid you will be most inconvenienced. Bella is Miss Elizabeth’s horse,” Darcy responded, with no thought for the implication of his words.
“A paid companion with her own horse, I never heard of such a thing!”
Darcy ignored Caroline’s protest and led Bella to Elizabeth. “Miss Elizabeth, your horse eagerly awaits. May I assist you?”
Elizabeth smiled. Given the awkwardness of the moment, what else was there to do? She remained speechless as Darcy lifted her into the saddle, the same as he had done countless times before. Somehow, in front of the Bingleys, the meticulous attention he showed her left her feeling a bit uncomfortable. As usual, he lingered by her side until he was thoroughly convinced of her security.
In the meantime, Caroline grew more and more incensed by the minute. She refused the horse the groom brought forward to her. “This is absurd. I insist upon being satisfied. Since when does the hired help usurp a guest’s prerogative? Surely, Miss Eliza can be inconvenienced for a day!”
The last thing Elizabeth wanted or needed was to be the subject of Caroline’s diatribe. “Very well, Miss Caroline, you are welcome to ride Bella.”
Darcy intervened. “Miss Elizabeth, are you quite certain? You are not obliged to give up riding Bella, simply to appease her.”
“Indeed, Mr. Darcy, it is no bother at all. I shall ride one of your other beautiful horses this morning.” Darcy would have objected, except he now had an opportunity to aid her once again. Darcy assisted Elizabeth down and led her by the hand to the horse originally selected for Caroline. His attentions went unnoticed by everyone, except Caroline.
“Mr. Darcy,” Caroline carped, “I could use a fair bit of your assistance as well.”
Without directly acknowledging her, Darcy turned to his groom. “Mr. Jones, will you give help to my guest?”
“Yes Sir, Mr. Darcy,” the somewhat reluctant groom stated. That was not the first time he had dealt with the tempestuous young woman.
Darcy quickly returned his attention to Elizabeth, who had freed her hand from his by then. “Miss Elizabeth, though I am confident in your riding ability, I urge you to take your time this morning. Furthermore, I insist upon riding along beside you.”
“As much as I fear it will only make matters worse with your guest, I think I should like it if you were to stay close by until I grow comfortable with the horse.” Elizabeth smiled. “What is its name?”
Darcy returned her smile. “I will introduce you.”
While Darcy acquainted Elizabeth with the other horse, Caroline was causing quite a scene. It seemed that Bella was not of the same mind as Elizabeth. She would not stand still for Caroline’s mount. Caroline refused the groom’s assistance out of spite, and insisted upon using a mounting block. After several unsuccessful attempts, finally Caroline was saddled and ready to proceed. Suddenly, after only a few steps, in a decidedly uncharacteristic display of unbridled aggression, Bella reared up on her hind legs—a move that rendered poor Caroline faced down upon the ground.
Everyone, including Darcy and Elizabeth, raced towards her. The latter two attempted to calm Bella. As regarded Caroline, fortunately, all that was wounded was her pride. Her brother helped her to her feet, and her sister did her best to brush away the soil from her clothing and remove the straw from her hair. Again, Caroline was vexed by Darcy’s inattention. There she was, an honoured guest, and he was tending to the wild beast having just tried to kill her. Caroline brushed her eager attendants away and stormed off to the manor house in a huff, convinced that Darcy might rue the day he had treated her so abominably.
A couple of weeks after the arrival of the Bingleys, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam showed up at Pemberley. Darcy had grown tired of Caroline’s antics and her disparaging attitude towards Elizabeth. He even counselled Bingley to admonish his sister, but to no avail. Darcy welcomed the excuse to spend time alone with Richard. They were practically inseparable. The two were mindful of joining the guests for meals and after dinner entertainment, but other than that, they enjoyed long horseback excursions and other sporting activities.
One afternoon, whilst in the billiard room, Richard brought up a conversation he had put off for a week. “I say, old fellow, when are you planning to return to town? Very soon, I hope.”
“I plan to stay here through Christmas and return to town for Lady Ellen’s Twelfth Night Ball.”
“So long, you say. You have become quite the domestic, have you not?” Richard asked sarcastically.
“I must admit, I am quite content when at Pemberley,” Darcy stated, as a matter of fact.
“And speaking of contentment, I glimpsed the pleasing Antoinette before I left London. She looked fairly restless, what with so much idle time on her hands.”
“Antoinette is not your concern,” Darcy voiced quickly. After a long, reflective pause he continued, “Despite the obvious drawbacks, her advantages are not to be disregarded. How many in her place are better compensated? What more might she wish for?”
“Well let us see—perhaps companionship, passion... Look, if you are no longer interested, why do you not let go of her? There are plenty of gentlemen waiting in the wings, including myself.”
“I have no intention to ‘let go’ of her. It is not as if I never plan to return to London.”
“Good Heavens, you are a selfish prick! She is a passionate, desirable woman who should not be placed upon a pedestal, waiting for you to return. She is not some vestal virgin; she is a whore. Have some compassion and end your ridiculous arrangement over the poor thing.”
“She is the one I prefer. I will not share her!”
“For Heaven’s sake, you are simply using her to satiate your lust for Miss Elizabeth!”
“Even if that is true, what of it? I do as I please without answering to anyone, even you. Stay out of my affairs Richard, and do not go near Antoinette.”
“Calm down, old man! Look, how about we settle this with a fencing match? If I win, we are off on a quick jaunt to town.”
“What makes you think I would agree to that? Everything that I want and need is here.”
“Not everything,” Richard said with certitude. “How long has it been anyway? I am only looking out for you, my friend.”
“Fine, if I win, you will back off on this subject once and for all,” Darcy uttered as he threw the pool cue stick down on the billiards table in surrender.
“It is a deal,” Richard cheerfully agreed, after inwardly congratulating himself on his ability to disturb the composure of his otherwise calm and collected younger cousin.
After a bruising match, Darcy conceded defeat and agreed to a brief sojourn to London, once the Bingleys departed. There was no way he would leave Georgiana and Elizabeth at the mercy of Caroline Bingley. He wondered if he had let Richard defeat him. Many months had passed since Darcy last had shared Antoinette’s bed, not since before the start of the Season when he had stayed out all night and had been “caught” coming home just before dawn. After months of fantasising of making love to Elizabeth, whom he could never have, he was tormented and in desperate need of a passionate release in the arms of a woman.
Less than a week later, Darcy and Richard returned. Richard remained a few days at Pemberley before going to visit his parents. As Richard made the short journey to his family’s home in Matlock, he could not help but reflect upon the changes in his cousin Darcy. The brief sojourn was far from entertaining. Darcy had become quite the killjoy. He decided he would not try again to persuade Darcy to accompany him to town, as he shamelessly had done so. Richard considered that his lovesick cousin was determined to put his life on hold while he decided whether to pursue Miss Elizabeth. Who was he to interfere?
Feeling guilty for his debauchery during his trip with Richard, Darcy immersed himself in his work upon his return to Pemberley. Much like he did when they first arrived at Pemberley months ago, Darcy isolated himself in his study. Elizabeth and Georgiana rarely saw him. Darcy reckoned that his guilt was not associated with the idea of having betrayed the woman he loved, but rather that he had abandoned the young women to go off to enjoy his carefree bachelor lifestyle in London.
Frustrated by his lack of concentration one morning, Darcy set off on horseback. He rode out to the temple. Elizabeth was there.
“Good morning, Miss Elizabeth, I am surprised to find you here.” He dismounted his horse and bowed to her.
“I am quite sorry to have intruded upon your sanctuary, Mr. Darcy. I warned you, though, that it might become a favourite of mine, did I not?”
“I do not mind sharing it with you, Miss Elizabeth.”
Darcy walked towards the pond and stared off into the distance, seemingly distracted. His detached demeanour prompted Elizabeth to wonder if she should be there. She cautiously approached him from behind and said, “Perhaps I should leave.”
“No, do not leave on my account,” he replied, without turning to face her.
“Forgive my saying this, but you seem so distracted. In fact, you have been distant since your return. We hardly see you at all,” she expressed tentatively.
“I am sorry for neglecting you,” Darcy responded, still somewhat faraway.
“Mr. Darcy, you have not neglected me. If you would like to talk about what is bothering you, I am happy to listen.”
At last, Darcy turned towards Elizabeth. He murmured with deep remorse, “I feel as though I have been negligent. I feel that in leaving Georgiana and you here at Pemberley, whilst I gallivanted in town with my cousin, I was being dishonourable. Better that I had remained here with you... two.”
“You must stop berating yourself. Georgiana and I missed you, but we hardly felt abandoned.”
“I am afraid it is more than that. I should not have gone,” he confessed. “If you knew, really knew what I am like,” he struggled with the words.
“What, that you are arrogant and self-absorbed? I am not blind, Mr. Darcy. However, you are none of those things when here at Pemberley. You are kind and generous. You work very hard and take your responsibilities seriously. Moreover, if you are truly concerned about your actions, then why do you not change them? What is stopping you? You are your own master. You have everything you should ever want.”
“You are wrong. I do not have everything I want. There is one thing I want desperately, yet can never have.”
“Then, perhaps you do not want it enough.”
“You do not understand. I doubt you ever would.”
Not wishing to pry into Darcy’s affairs, Elizabeth replied, “Then, let us speak of other things. You must admit, you were glad to see the colonel. You two were joined at the hip from the moment of his arrival. Who would blame you for spending time with your cousin and enjoying male camaraderie?”
“I must admit I was hiding out from the Bingleys. Charles and I have drifted apart since his marriage, and his brother and sisters are not among my favourite people,” he frankly conceded. His melancholy slowly faded. After several minutes of continued light banter between the two of them, Darcy said, “I am glad I found you this morning. You are good for my spirits.”
“I am glad I could help,” she responded, genuinely pleased to see the positive change in his demeanour.
“If you feel up to it, what say you we venture out farther this morning? I know of another incredible spot I wish to show you.”
Upon her acceptance, Darcy took Elizabeth’s hand and led her to her horse to help her mount. As he lingered by her to correct her sitting posture and to make sure she was secure, she protested, “Mr. Darcy, I know what I am about. I made it here, did I not?”
“So, you have become quite the horsewoman, have you? Perhaps we should select a more challenging mount upon our return to the stables.”
“No, thank you. Bella suits me just fine,” Elizabeth said while gently stroking Bella’s neck.
As Darcy walked over to mount his stallion, he said, “I am concerned about your riding out so far alone. What if something should happen to you?”
“Am I about to be summoned to your study, Mr. Darcy?”
“You might, if I find you so far out alone again. Perhaps I should assign a riding escort for you.”
“Please do not go to such lengths on my behalf. I will abide by your admonishment. I promise. Now, lead on, Mr. Darcy.”
Some while later, Darcy and Elizabeth rode along a serpentine path, silently communicating in peculiar harmony.
Earlier, upon reaching their destination, she had playfully chastised him by suggesting his plan was not carefully thought out. She had missed breakfast that morning. Her hunger pangs quietly rumbled.
“Pardon me, madam, for not properly anticipating your appetite,” Darcy said. “Of course, I rarely am unprepared for these types of excursions. Bear with me just a short while longer, and I will share what sustenance I have with you.”
When they came upon the place he intended, Darcy dismounted his horse. He lifted Elizabeth down from Bella. He then handed Elizabeth a blanket.
“Please find an ideal spot for dining, while I secure our horses.” She did as he recommended. He joined her rather quickly with a saddlebag slung over his shoulder and helped her spread the covering on the soft patch of grass. Darcy encouraged Elizabeth to sit, as he bent to his knees to produce the contents of his fine leather bag.
She was delighted. Indeed, he was quite prepared with food and drink enough for the two of them. She said, “You surprise me, Mr. Darcy. It is almost as if you planned this.”
“I am afraid I did not, as you will soon find. You see, we must share a single flask of ale, for I never travel with glasses. I hope you do not mind roughing it.”
“Mr. Darcy, you speak as if I am a prim and delicate blossom. Do you really see me as such?”
He chuckled. “Actually, I do. Are you suggesting otherwise?”
She viewed his sentiments as a challenge. She reached for the flask, and try as she might, she was simply unable to open it. Darcy reached out his hand, “Allow me, my lady.”
She had no choice but to hand the flask over to him. Her thirstiness far outweighed her vanity. Darcy easily removed the top and handed it back to her with a look that spurred her to refute any notion of her being fragile. He cautioned, “Mind you take care to sip slowly.”
Elizabeth attempted a large swig, so much so that she began coughing, violently. Darcy moved closer to her side to comfort her, but Elizabeth was not having it. She insisted she was just fine. She took another drink—this time much slower, before handing the metal container to Darcy. It was not something that she had ever tasted before. She certainly did not intend to drink it again. She was not about to admit that to him. The rest of the impromptu meal, they consumed in relative silence.
The untroubled silence continued as they rode along the winding path. Occasionally, one would look over at the other in quiet wonderment. Elizabeth was perfectly comfortable with Darcy. Their friendship, though platonic, was unfathomable. She could easily surmise the familiar nature of their relationship would raise eyebrows beyond the confines of Pemberley. They spent far more time alone than a single man and a young maiden ought, but therein existed the trust factor. She trusted him implicitly.
Darcy reflected upon the past few days in town with his cousin, and his incessant innuendos that he was using one woman as a substitute for the other. Preposterous, he thought. What he felt for Elizabeth was not mere lust. The feelings she inspired in him were impossible to describe. There was no comparison to what he felt when in her company and what he felt in the company of others. There could be no substitute for Elizabeth.