Darcy and Elizabeth What If? Collection 1 (28 page)

‘You speak as if it were in the past.’

‘And so it is.’

He spoke more seriously and Elizabeth was intrigued.

‘Oh?’ she said. ‘And what ended it?’

‘We must all grow up in the end. I am at an age now when I must start thinking of the future. A young man who cannot settle to any employment is one thing, but a man approaching thirty who cannot settle to anything is quite another. I do not want to be that man.’

His words were sensible and Elizabeth found herself approving of him. She was not yet ready to ask him whether his intentions towards her sister were honourable – and, in any case, should it become necessary she would leave it to her uncle to ask – but she was comforted to know that he was starting to take a more serious view of life.

If only she could remember where she had seen him before . . .

The steps of the dance parted them, and when they came back together again she suddenly saw it: he was the man in the miniature portrait at Pemberley, the son of the late Mr Darcy’s steward.

She let out a small cry, and when he asked her what was wrong, she revealed that she had just seen his portrait.

‘Ah, yes, your sister said that you were visiting Pemberley. I did not think you would see the miniature. I am surprised it is still there.’

Elizabeth was curious and asked him what he meant.

‘Mr Darcy’s father loved me as a son, and hung my portrait in pride of place, but Mr Darcy does not like me. I thought he would have removed the portrait once his father died.’

Elizabeth thought of what Mr Darcy had told her: that Mr Wickham had grown wild. But evidently Mr Darcy respected his father’s memory enough to leave the miniature in its accustomed place.

As she looked at the man in front of her, she thought him exceptionally civilised. Was he still wild? she wondered. If so, he was hiding it beneath a charming veneer. Or had he reformed? Charlotte certainly thought him capable of reform, and his own words seemed to suggest it. But only time would tell.

‘Enough of me,’ said Mr Wickham. ‘I would rather talk about you. I have heard something about you from your sisters, but tell me, Miss Elizabeth, what do you do with yourself all day in Meryton? Do you ride or sew or paint? Or do you write novels?’

Elizabeth laughed.

‘I do none of those things. I like to walk.’

‘Then we must walk together, all of us. I will bring some of my fellow officers to call on you and your amiable sisters at Longbourn, if you permit, and we will all go for a walk together. There must be some famous landmarks hereabouts, or some famous beauty spots. Something that newcomers to the neighbourhood would like to see.’

‘Yes, indeed there are,’ said Elizabeth. ‘I would be glad to show them to you.’

‘Then it is arranged. We will call on you on Friday.’

‘I am afraid we are engaged until next week,’ said Elizabeth.

Ever since returning to Longbourn, she and her sisters had been inundated with invitations to take tea or attend dinner parties, supper parties, card parties and other entertainments by people who wanted to hear all about Pemberley.

‘Then will next Tuesday suit you?’ asked Mr Wickham.

Elizabeth said it would and the arrangements were made.

The dance came to an end. Mr Wickham bowed and Elizabeth curtseyed. She felt she had made a good beginning in knowing Mr Wickham. He would undoubtedly be at some of the entertainments during the week, where she could observe him. The walk would give her more opportunity to talk to him and to decide whether he was the kind of gentleman who should be encouraged, or the kind who should be warned away.

She rejoined Charlotte at the side of the room. As she did so, she saw Mr Darcy’s eyes upon her. His mouth was set in a firm line and she knew he was not pleased. But he would have to accustom himself to the fact that she had an independent spirit and that she meant to make up her own mind about Mr Wickham.

Whatever Mr Darcy might think.

The following week was full of interest. After being away so long, Jane and Elizabeth were engaged to take tea with various neighbours every day of the week, and their mornings were taken up with visitors. In addition to these more usual activities there were some unusual activities as well. On Wednesday, the Bingleys arrived to invite the Miss Bennets to the Netherfield ball. Mr Darcy was not with them as he had gone to London on business. ‘But he will be back in time for the ball,’ Miss Bingley said.

On Thursday, there was a supper party at the Gouldings’ house, Haye Park.

On Friday, Elizabeth’s aunt Philips held a party at which lottery tickets formed the main entertainment. Lydia was wildly excited and the rest of the company enjoyed the game with more discretion.

On Saturday, there was a soirée at the Robinson’s house and on Sunday they all went to church.

Monday arrived, and with it came a dinner party given by Colonel Forster.

At all of these entertainments, Elizabeth watched Mr Wickham to see if he singled Kitty out for particular attention. He did not spend all his time with her, but he did indeed seem to be very interested n her.

Whether it would turn into a proposal, Elizabeth did not know, but she thought she would alert her aunt Gardiner to the possibility, so that her uncle Gardiner could make some discreet enquiries in London, where Mr Wickham had spent most of his time before arriving in Meryton. So on Tuesday she went into the morning room and sat down at the pretty writing desk. She took up a quill and dipped it into the ink, then pulled a sheet of paper towards her and started to write. She told her aunt and uncle about Mr Wickham’s attentions to Kitty and asked her uncle to make enquiries about Mr Wickham’s character. She sealed the letter and gave it to the servant to post.

The day of the walk arrived. The weather was fine, but there was a nip in the air and they set out at a brisk pace. Elizabeth was wearing a white muslin gown with a high waist and a long, fluttering skirt. She wore an amber coloured pelisse over the top of it and she had a matching amber ribbon in her bonnet. She loved to walk and the fresh air was invigorating.

Lydia ran along at the front, laughing with Mr Denny and arranging some mischievous prank to play on Colonel Forster. It seemed to involve dressing one of the officers as a washerwoman and it was just the sort of thing to appeal to Lydia.

Mary walked more sedately with a shy young officer, who fingered his collar very frequently and went red whenever anyone spoke to him.

Jane walked with Mr Bingley. Mr Bingley had been visiting the officers and he had consequently been invited along when they set out for Longbourn. Jane appeared relaxed and confident in his company.

Charlotte walked with Colonel Fitzwilliam, who had also been with the officers and, like Mr Bingley, had been invited to join them.

This left Elizabeth to walk with Mr Wickham.

She had not yet had a reply from her uncle, so she decided to take a more direct route and ask Mr Wickham himself about his time in London.

‘It is a place that draws young men,’ he said, with an open manner. ‘I went there originally to pursue the law, as I had decided to become a lawyer, but I found that I did not take to the profession. I stayed there some time longer, wondering what I should do with my life and turning my hand to various things. But in the end I tired of the noise and bustle and self importance of the place. I tired of the people, too. London attracts a certain type and I felt I had fallen into bad company, so I was glad to accept Denny’s invitation to Meryton.’

‘And do you find it more to your liking?’ asked Elizabeth.

‘I do,’ he said.

‘And the people? Do you find them more to your liking, too?’

‘Yes,’ he said.

‘You seem —’

Elizabeth wanted to know how he felt about Kitty but she did not know how to phrase it. It was the sort of subject that was usually discussed by men, but with her father dead, her uncle Gardiner many miles away, her uncle Philips not inclined to involve himself unless directly asked to do so, and no brothers, Elizabeth felt it was incumbent upon her to look after Kitty.

Mr Wickham stopped walking and turned towards her.

‘You want to ask me what my intentions are towards your sister?’ he asked.

‘Yes, I do,’ Elizabeth admitted.

‘Then I will tell you. I like her very much. If I can secure some suitable employment then I would like to ask your uncle for his permission to offer her my hand.’

‘I see. And what do you call suitable employment?’

‘A commission in the militia. Your sister is my chief reason for remaining in Meryton for so long, and for deciding that I must settle to a career and make something of my life. I would not have mentioned this at so early a stage if you had not wanted to know. I do not ask to be considered as a suitor at present, but once I have my commission I would like to be so regarded.’

‘You have been very honest with me, and I thank you,’ said Elizabeth.

He bowed, and they started walking again, soon rejoining the others.

The groupings now changed. Mr Wickham moved forward to join Kitty; Lydia started teasing Colonel Forster about giving a ball; Charlotte fell into conversation with Mr Bingley; Elizabeth joined Mr Denny and Jane kindly gave her attention to the shy young man, while Mary walked with Colonel Fitzwilliam.

The conversation became more general.

They were almost at their destination - the top of the hill which gave a panoramic view of the surrounding area – when the sound of a horse arrested their attention and over the brow of the hill came Mr Darcy.

‘Darcy!’ cried Mr Bingley at once, in his good humoured way. ‘What a lucky coincidence, meeting you here. If you had come half an hour later we should not have met. We would have been on our way back to Longbourn.’

Elizabeth, who was watching Mr Darcy, saw that his eyes lingered on Mr Wickham. Mr Wickham gave him a cold bow and it was clear there was no friendship between them.

Elizabeth thought it a pity, for they had grown up almost as brothers, but now it seemed they had little in common and did not like one another at all.

She felt sure she could have teased Mr Darcy out of his dislike and persuaded him to invite Mr Wickham to Pemberley, but she felt the full force of her aunt’s advice, for she knew herself to be well on the way to being in love with Mr Darcy. His absence had not served to make her forget him, it had only served to make her miss him and to like him more.

He was not an easy man to like, as Mr Bingley was, but he had many layers to his personality, and these rewarded investigation. They had challenged Elizabeth’s lively intelligence and aroused her curiosity. And when she had taken the time and trouble to get to know him at Pemberley she had come to appreciate the depths she found beneath the surface.

She had tried to avoid him in Meryton, because she was following her aunt’s advice, but their enforced dance had strengthened her feelings for him. She remembered his kindness when she had been overcome by memories of her parents and she thought of his generosity in inviting her whole family to live at Pemberley. Neither of these qualities were apparent on the surface, but the more the knew of him, the better she liked him, and now she was well on the way to being in love with him.

But such feelings were a betrayal of her sister and so she turned away from him and gave her attention to Charlotte instead.

Mr Darcy soon rode on, and she was left to regret the tangled circumstances which stood in the way of her and the one man in all the world she wanted to marry.

The day of the Netherfield ball drew near. There had not been a ball at Netherfield for years and everyone in Meryton was looking forward to it. Elizabeth and Jane went over the household accounts very carefully, seeing where money could be saved in order to buy new shoe roses, hair ornaments and other small things for the ball. Elizabeth wanted Jane to have everything their small funds could supply, but Jane insisted the money be shared equally between them, so that they could each have something new. Elizabeth protested. But Jane, who could be strong when thinking of others, stood firm. At last Elizabeth agreed, and the four Miss Bennets – not five, for Mary preferred to make learned remarks on the frivolity of females concerned with their attire - spent many happy hours deciding what to wear.

Everything had to be talked over with Charlotte, and many questions were put to the Bingleys, who were frequent visitors to Longbourn. Mr Darcy was a frequent visitor, too, but Elizabeth always made some excuse to leave the room when he was present, and when Mr Darcy and the Bingleys took her sisters on outings, Elizabeth found some reason why she could not go along.

She knew she would not be able to avoid the ball, for that would cause comment, but she had taken the trouble to make sure she was already engaged for most of the dances before the ball began. Some of her arranged partners were friends of the family, Charlotte’s brothers and the like, and some were the officers. So there would be very little opportunity for anyone to force Mr Darcy on her as a partner, and she was certain that her dance card would soon fill up once they arrived so that
very little opportunity
would quickly shrink to
no opportunity
.

When the day of the ball at last arrived, the house was full of ball gowns and headdresses and fans and dancing shoes. There was much good cheer and laughter as they dressed, and at last they set out, all five of them crammed into the carriage and enjoying the unusual treat.

There was a procession of carriages leading up to the door of Netherfield Park and the house itself was looking very festive when the Miss Bennets at last found themselves inside. The chandeliers sparkled with hundreds of candles and the hall was full of their friends and neighbours, the ladies in their high-waisted gowns and the gentlemen in tailcoats and breeches.

And there, welcoming their guests, were the Bingleys. Mr Bingley was dressed n a blue tailcoat and satin knee breeches. His pleasant features wore a good-humoured expression and he greeted everyone with a friendly word. His sister, Miss Bingley, was acting as his hostess, and she, too, welcomed the guests, but in a much more superior fashion. Indeed, she was a very superior young woman. Her clothes were magnificent, consisting of a green silk gown with a high waist, puffed sleeves and a train. Her headdress was set with emeralds and her long gloves were dyed to match her gown.

Mr Bingley was particularly welcoming to the Miss Bennets, and as she saw him greet Jane, a new idea took root in Elizabeth’s mind. She had thought, up until now, that his friendship with Jane had sprung from a desire to get to know his best friend’s future wife, but now she suspected he had feelings for her sister. And, looking at Jane, she suspected her sister had feelings for him. If Elizabeth had not been so caught up in her own predicament, and her fears for Kitty, and her responsibilities towards the rest of her family, then she would have noticed it sooner.

A moment later, she was not sure. Mr Bingley seemed to greet his other guests in just such a friendly fashion. And yet the impression would not leave her.

She had no further time to think about it, however, because as soon as she went into the ballroom her hand was claimed for the first dance.

She curtseyed to Mr Denny. He bowed. The dance began.

‘What luck, Mr Bingley taking Netherfield Park,’ said Mr Denny. ‘This ball is just the first of the entertainments he has planned. Has he told you about the boating party?’

‘Yes,’ said Elizabeth.

Mr Bingley had spoken of his plans for entertaining at Netherfield, and the boating party was to be the next festivity. There had been some protests when he had suggested it, for the year was advancing, but Mr Bingley had carried the day, saying that the weather was warm for the time of year and it would be good to enjoy the lake before winter set in.

Lydia had been wildly excited and had agreed with Mr Bingley that they must have a boating party and the whole thing had been arranged.

Like the ball, Elizabeth knew that she must attend, for her absence at such an occasion would be remarked upon. But as long as she did not get into the same boat as Mr Darcy, she knew she would be able to avoid him with ease.

They talked of Mr Bingley’s plans for the autumn and the excitement he had brought to the neighbourhood, and the dance passed very pleasantly.

Elizabeth returned to the side of the room. She had one dance free, but when it was over there was only one more gap on her card. As soon as it was filled, she would no longer have to fear being forced to dance with Mr Darcy.

But her hopes were dashed when he appeared beside her. He looked extremely handsome. His dark hair had been brushed into a fashionable style and his deep eyes, high cheekbones and determined chin all combined to make him the most handsome man in the room. His black coat fit him exactly, contouring itself to his shoulders and broad chest. His breeches were pulled across firm thighs without wrinkling, and Elizabeth felt her heart skip a beat.

He bowed and said, ‘Miss Elizabeth, might I have the pleasure of this dance.’

She wanted to make an excuse but she could not think of anything on the spur of the moment. And besides, she knew it would cause comment if she refused him. So, telling herself it was only one dance and it would be over before very long, she dropped him a curtsey and accepted.

He led her out on to the floor and the opening chords of the dance began. She curtseyed, feeling herself perform the action with unusual elegance, for Mr Darcy brought out the best in her. Sometimes this meant she argued or teased, but if so, it was always with good reason, for she cared about him.

‘I could not help noticing that Mr Wickham was paying your sister considerable attention before I left Meryton,’ he said.

She inclined her head.

‘And again, when I returned, I saw that he was walking with her and behaving in a familiar way.’

‘Yes, he has a great liking for Kitty. But you need not fear, I have spoken to him about it and his intentions are honourable.’

‘Wickham doesn’t know the meaning of honour,’ said Mr Darcy with contempt.

‘You are wrong!’ said Elizabeth. ‘He spoke to me most seriously about it. He was wild in his youth, he admitted as much, but now he has reached an age where he wishes to build a future for himself. He means to join the militia and make the army his career. And, when he is able to support a wife, he means to propose to Kitty.’

‘I thought as much,’ said Mr Darcy.

‘I cannot see why you look so grim. It is a happy circumstance, and not something for you to frown about.’

‘It is nothing of the kind. He has no interest in Kitty. The only reason he is paying her any attention is to be revenged upon me. He means to marry her so that he can force himself on my notice. Once he is my brother-in-law he thinks I will help him, for Kitty’s sake, and he thinks I will have to invite him to Pemberley for the same reason.’

‘No, you’re wrong,’ said Elizabeth.

‘He is not motivated by love for Kitty, he is motivated by hatred of me. He would do anything to see me squirm and he thinks he has found a way to do it.’

‘I cannot believe he is so bad,’ said Elizabeth, feeling shocked.

‘Believe me, he is. Kitty cannot be allowed to marry him.’

‘That is not your decision!’ said Elizabeth heatedly.

He looked angry, but he could not protest, for what she said was true. The steps of the dance parted them and by the time they came together again he had mastered his emotion.

‘If you will not listen to reason, then I must speak to your uncle,’ he said.

‘I have already spoken to him. He is making enquiries into Mr Wickham’s London activities. You see, I am not so careless of Kitty as you suppose.’

He looked taken aback.

‘I never supposed anything of the kind. I supposed Mr Wickham had imposed on your good nature.’ His voice softened and his eyes were tender. ‘I never thought you were lacking in any way.’

Elizabeth, sensing the danger of his softer manner, was glad the dance was coming to an end.

‘Kitty’s family will protect her, if it becomes necessary, but I think you are mistaken in Mr Wickham. I think you are prejudiced against him because of his wild youth, which seems no worse than any other young man’s youth.’ she said.

‘If that is what you believe, then there is no more to be said,’ he remarked with icy politeness. ‘I have done my duty by warning you. I can do no more.’

The final chords of the dance sounded. He made her a haughty bow and she dropped him a sweeping curtsey, then they went their separate ways.

‘What were you talking to Mr Darcy about?’ asked Charlotte, when Elizabeth joined her at the side of the room.

‘He was warning me against Mr Wickham,’ said Elizabeth. ‘But he is prejudiced and I do not believe what he says.’

Charlotte was silent.

‘What is it?’ asked Elizabeth.

‘Only that I have heard one or two rumours about Mr Wickham since speaking to you last, and they are not to his advantage.’

‘Rumours!’ exclaimed Elizabeth. ‘I am surprised at you for listening to such things, Charlotte. You are usually too sensible to pay attention to gossip.’

‘Perhaps you are right. But I think you should be cautious in your dealings with him, all the same.’

‘I am being cautious. I have written to my uncle in London and I expect a reply any day. If he has discovered anything solidly against Mr Wickham, I will speak to Kitty about it and I am sure my uncle will speak to Mr Wickham.’

‘Can he leave London? Will his business not miss him?’

‘I am sure he will ask my uncle Philips to attend to the matter, if he himself cannot get away. But enough of Mr Wickham and Mr Darcy. Enough of all men!’ said Elizabeth. ‘I am beginning to wish I was touring the country with my aunt and uncle again. Rocks and mountains are far less bothersome!’

Charlotte laughed at Elizabeth’s teasing.

‘It is a pity you think so, for here is Mr Bingley, coming to claim you for your promised dance,’ said Charlotte.

‘At least Mr Bingley is not frustrating. He is simply good natured and good humoured. I am not surprised Jane likes him.’

Charlotte said, ‘I am beginning to think she likes him too much.’

There was time for no more. Mr Bingley arrived and led Elizabeth on to the floor. But as she danced with him, Charlotte’s words rang in Elizabeth’s ears. She, too, had begun to think the same, and she wondered where the tangled circumstances surrounding her sister’s engagement to Mr Darcy would end. She also wondered if that end would be a happy or a tragic one.