Fault or Virtue: An Imaginative Retelling of Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice' (17 page)

Jane, she could see, was shaking with anticipation at the answer and Georgiana’s
bright and innocent blue eyes sung with hope.
“Of course, when it has been laid before me in such a manner, by those whom I
hold dear,” she looked at Georgiana and then Jane, “then I dare not deny.”
She found Darcy’s face then, and saw that he had been studying her, waiting for
her answer. He was neither pleased nor disappointed, but rather resigned. When
Georgiana looked to him, however, he gave her an appreciative smile and patted her
gently on the shoulder.
Jane came upon her with a warm hug, and for a moment, she was both relieved
and happy in her decision.

“There will be many parties, to be sure!” Mrs. Bennet trilled as they packed the
last of Elizabeth’s belongings. The room had seemed so empty since Jane had left, and
now, with her effects all packed away, it was even more so. Elizabeth was glad to leave
her room behind for a time, everything in it reminded her of Jane. They had shared it,
after all, since Mary was born, and shared the same bed also. Now Jane was Mrs.
Bingley, and Elizabeth did not know what future was in store for her. Her mother,
however, was more certain.

“It is a pity that they did not offer for Kitty, for she would surely make the most
of the opportunity. Let us hope that in a few months time, they request her company as
well. Mary also. Or after you have been married, Elizabeth.” After thinking over that
possibility for a time, she did not like this plan quite so well.

“Perhaps you may suggest the idea to them,” she decided, with a nod of her head,
adding, “It is a pity Mr. Darcy is not an amiable man.”
“How could you say that he is not? He is the one who has invited the three of us
to his home and means to entertain us for an extended period of time,” Elizabeth argued.
She felt the need to defend him at every turn since she had learned of his involvement
with Lydia’s wedding. If only her mother knew, Elizabeth wondered what she would say
of the man then.
“That is all well and good, but if he means to be kind, I prefer it take the form of a
marriage proposal.”

!
(%!
“Jane’s marriage has only just been announced in the papers, let us finish with
clearing up what is left of the wedding arrangements about the house before we begin
thinking of another.”

“This is valuable time, Lizzy! We must take advantage of it. Our name will
undoubtedly be whispered amongst the most prominent members of the ton now that we
are known to associate with the Bingleys and Darcys. You will hold a great deal of power
amongst that society for a limited time and you must see to it that you secure a match
before someone else is the talk of the town. I am sure Mr. Darcy means to entertain many
a gentleman for the pleasure of his guests.”

Her mother painted a picture of her interlude to Pemberley differently than she
had imagined. Mr. Darcy, she knew, preferred the quiet and solitude of the country. But,
she realized, if he had meant to take Bingley under his wing, some members of London
society might be called upon to attend them in the country. In this way, Jane and Bingley
would have all of the introductions out of the way before the start of the season.
Georgiana, too, might be best presented among the first circles in her own home, before
her coming out the following season.

She was not frightened in any way by these thoughts, but rather disappointed.
Pemberley, she found in her brief acquaintance of the place, had been calm and
comfortable. It would be less so if crowded.

After a journey of two days, Elizabeth, Jane, and Bingley stepped out onto the
courtyard of Pemberley. Jane let out a gasp of surprise at its brilliance, and Elizabeth was
scarcely less impressed upon seeing it again. Mr. Darcy and Georgiana greeted them and
Mr. Darcy moved between Elizabeth and his sister to take each of their arms and escort
them up the steps and into the great home.

“I imagine you will all like to refresh yourselves after your long journey. Your
trunks have already been taken up to your rooms and you may rest until suppertime. We
have a store of refreshments in the sun room if you care to indulge earlier, but I would
like to warn you that I have ordered a large supper for today,” Georgiana was beaming,
adapting well to the task of hostess whilst played amongst those she knew well.

As the Bingley’s moved to follow a servant to their room, Darcy addressed
Elizabeth.
“Miss Bennet, if rest and refreshments do not entice you, I might suggest a walk
in the East garden, or a visit to our library.” He looked hopeful.
“Thank you, Mr. Darcy,” she was moved by his attentiveness, “I am well enough
acquainted with the grounds to know that a walk would be most pleasant, and I have
heard enough of your library to anticipate it most eagerly,” she turned to Georgiana, “I
thank both of you for having me in your home.”
“You’re most welcome, Miss Bennet,” Darcy bowed politely, and Georgiana
smiled in agreement. Elizabeth was slightly discomfited of the fact that she, as the now
eldest unmarried Bennet sister that she was to be addressed as “Miss Bennet.” Being
referred to as “Miss Elizabeth” was far more comfortable, intimate. Yet, she realized, this

!
(&!
had not bothered her until she had been addressed by Mr. Darcy in this way. To
Georgiana, she would remain “Elizabeth.” Perhaps she could persuade her brother to
relax in formalities as well, just enough to be called “Miss Elizabeth” again.

Elizabeth saw to her appearance and changed for dinner before leaving her room
with the intention of finding the library. She met no one as she left the guest wing and
moved towards the common rooms, beginning to worry that she would not find it. She
heard footsteps in the distance just as she was about to give up and return to her room.
Thinking it was a servant, she rounded a corner and began speaking.

“Excuse me?” she asked quietly, not wishing to startle whomever it was. The
figure turned towards her, his face meeting with the light that a nearby lantern gave off.
“Oh, Mr. Darcy!” She should have known that the chances of running into him
would increase once they were staying under the same roof. This thought gave her goose
pimples and a slight burning on her cheeks.
“A quest for the library, I presume? If I had known you would be down so
quickly, I would have shown you after I suggested it. Are you sure you have had enough
rest?” He looked at her carefully, as if to surmise her condition.
Did she look tired?
She
wondered.
“I found the journey here so comfortable that I do not think further rest is
necessary. Your coach has been most accommodating,” she smiled to reassure him, but
was not awarded a smile in return. She had never been able to accurately read his mood
before, so she did not attempt it now.
He led her silently through the house, stopping when they had reached a single,
unassuming door. He turned towards her, slowly opening the door.
“I hope you are not disappointed, Miss Bennet,” he said, meeting her eyes in such
a way as to suggest that it was more than the library to which he referred.
“As long as there are books, Mr. Darcy, I don’t believe I will be,” she raised an
eyebrow, looked past him into the room, and gasped.
It was so different than what she had expected. Though it was a vast room, the
dark wood, floor to ceiling shelves overflowing with books, and oversized chairs caused
it to appear much smaller and cozier. It was like she had wandered into an enlarged
version of her father’s study. She did not know how long she was lost in running her
hands along the books, committing every title to memory. It was when she caressed a title
that she and Darcy discussed on their walks around Netherfield that she remembered
Darcy waiting at the door. She looked up to catch him watching her intently, with a most
curious expression, his eyes dark and full of emotion. She shivered and wrapped her arms
around herself in embarrassment.
“Are you cold, Miss Bennet?” His low growl suggested he had specific means in
mind to warm her and she tightened her hold.
Remembering himself, Darcy moved to the hearth and worked on the fire.
“Thank you,” she replied quietly while his back was turned. “Might I make a
request, Mr. Darcy?” she asked, timidly. If she did not broach the subject now, she was
afraid it would be too late.
“Anything,” he turned, giving her his full attention.
“I might ask that you not call me Miss Bennet, Mr. Darcy.”

“What addresses am I allowed?” He fixed her with a playful look, and Elizabeth
worried as to the direction of the conversation.
“I believe Miss Elizabeth will do,” she raised a warning eyebrow, “I know it is
not the custom, but since you have known me as such, I don’t believe it will raise too
much scandal.”
“I would be more than happy to once again become acquainted with Miss
Elizabeth, then.” Darcy let slip a small smile and bowed.
“Thank you,” she was surprised at how much hearing him speak her name would
affect her, and she could barely get the words out.
“Of course. I will leave you until supper.” He left abruptly, and though the fire
had grown to be twice its original size, the library was much colder once he had gone.
Elizabeth settled on a book of poetry, a safe choice, and made herself comfortable
on one of the chairs with the intention of reading right up until supper was served, for that
way, her mind would be appropriately occupied the entire time.

Darcy found Elizabeth fast asleep in the library, curled up tightly in a wingback
chair. More curls escaped onto her face than usual, and her book lie open, draped on her
leg. He moved towards her hesitantly, eager that he should be the one to find her this
way, but uneasy as to what her reaction would be.

“Miss Elizabeth,” he whispered gently, carefully removing the book from her lap
in case it should fall. She stirred, but did not awaken. She was so peaceful, so angelic.
Her lips parted as she inhaled deeply, and he leaned closer, hoping to kiss her lightly
before she awoke. Would she think it was a dream if he did?

Her eyelids fluttered just a moment before Darcy’s lips met hers, and, sensing a
change in the room, they flew open just as Darcy hurriedly backed his face away. She
was too embarrassed and confused to have noticed his intention, too worried that she was
keeping everyone from their meal.

“Oh, Mr. Darcy, please excuse me!” She stood up and straightened her gown. Her
hands flew up to her hair in order to assess the damage.
“Please do not worry yourself in the matter of your timeliness or appearance,
madam. I can assure you that you have not delayed anyone in eating, and that you look as
lovely as ever.”
Elizabeth froze at the compliment, caught in Darcy’s meaningful stare. The
memory of waking up came back to her. Had he been about to kiss her? She blushed at
the thought. Or had it been a dream? She looked at him for the truth of it, but could only
discern the eagerness of his expression.
Bingley, Jane, and Georgiana happened upon them then, none of whom suspected
they could be interrupting.
“You were right, Darcy,” Bingley said as they approached, “The library it was.”
“I had the advantage, Bingley,” Darcy said, breaking eye contact with Elizabeth,
“I escorted her here earlier myself. It was just as I suspected, Miss Bennet was utterly
preoccupied with a book of poetry, and lost track of the hour.”
He glanced back at Elizabeth expectantly and she rewarded him with a grateful
smile.

!
((!
“I understand perfectly, Elizabeth,” chimed in Georgiana, “if my brother and Mrs.
Annesley were not so diligent in keeping timely meals, I would have happily missed
many in favor of poetry.”

Mr. Darcy took both his sister’s and Elizabeth’s arms in his to escort them down
to the dining room as the group of five enthusiastically discussed which poets were most
captivating.

When everyone had retired for the evening, Elizabeth found herself utterly
restless owing to the events of the day and her rest in the library. She chided herself for
not securing a portion of books to keep in her room. She hesitantly looked out the
window, somehow hoping that it would be light enough to escape for a short walk. The
moon, though full, was hidden behind dense clouds. Eight more uneasy paces around her
room, and she threw her shawl around her shoulders, resigning herself to a journey to the
library, and nothing more.

She was grateful when the old library door let out not the slightest creek when she
slipped inside. She carefully shut the door behind her and eagerly looked about the room,
noticing that the fireplace held a warm and roaring fire. She moved to slip out, unnoticed,
as the other occupant of the room moved to stop her.

“Please do not leave on my account,” Mr. Darcy said, gently grasping her hand.
Elizabeth cheeks warmed at the sight of his neck and upper chest, appearing at the
absence of his coat, cravat, and a few buttons. She remembered her own appearance just
as his eyes combed over her and she hugged herself instinctively, hoping her nightgown
and robe were not completely see-through.

“I’m afraid I must...I should not have come.” She paused when she felt his hand
on her shoulder. Warmth radiated from it, and she took a step backwards towards him
before turning around. Everything was so quiet; but she would not let it unnerve her. Her
courage rose as she met his gaze with a piercing one of her own along with a stubborn,
set jaw. She could see that he was surprised by her expression, perhaps misreading it as
one of anger, but after searching her eyes and seeing no hint of that feeling, his face
relaxed in relief.

“Miss Elizabeth, I would like to clarify what I made known to you earlier. All of
Pemberley is at your disposal during your stay, as you know. And I will add that this is
the case either day or night. Now please come in.” He took a step back to allow her to
come further into the room, but his eyes never left hers. “It is true I did not expect to see
anyone at this hour, but that by no means makes your presence unwelcome,” he paused
and looked away before continuing, “or unwanted.”