There were so many things to discuss, and she would be lying if she said she was not looking for some time for private conversation with him. It was, perhaps, the only benefit of letters; there was little concern for being overheard.

Finally, a landau stopped in front the Gardiner home, and a moment later, Elizabeth could see Darcy handing down Georgiana. Her heart beat a little faster, and she was sorely tempted to greet the arrivals herself. That, however, was not how proper young ladies conducted themselves; so she forced herself to remain seated until the visitors were announced.

“Forgive our tardiness,” Darcy said. He then exchanged the usual kiss on the hand for stiffly holding out a nosegay of purple, lavender, and white flowers. “These… um, these are for you.”

Elizabeth accepted the bouquet, and then bashfully turned away. She had never received such a token from a man.

“Georgiana insisted we stop,” he added awkwardly. He caught Georgiana’s look of exasperation and realized he should not have said that. He tugged nervously at his gloves. Perhaps courting is more difficult than I thought.

Elizabeth looked up and smiled, though her cheeks were still a rosy hue. “Thank you,” she replied softly. “They are lovely.”

To everyone’s relief, the awkward moment was broken by a cry coming towards them. “Lizzy, Cousin Lizzy…” Ian called. “Jonathan stole my mar…” Upon turning the corner and seeing the tall stranger, he stopped short. His eyes widened and he stared. The pilfered marbles were all but forgotten.

Amused, Elizabeth provided the requisite introductions. Though his eyes continued to be wide as saucers, Ian properly thanked the tall gentleman for his Christmas gift and then nervously stood next to his cousin.

Darcy bent down to discuss the marbles with young Ian, but before he could fully ascertain the problem, Aunt Gardiner entered the room, followed by two other children, Samantha and Leah. Again, introductions were performed and everyone was invited to sit for a spell. Conversation was brief, and mostly consisted of Aunt Gardiner thanking the Darcys for their Christmas gifts, dinner the previous evening, and inquiring after their plans for the morning.

When the children began to once again grow restless, Georgiana, Darcy and Elizabeth were excused for their planned carriage ride. Jane had already begged off today’s activities, and though Elizabeth put up the requisite protest, she was secretly pleased.

By the time everyone was comfortably arranged in the carriage, the awkward beginning of their meeting was forgotten. The three chatted and teased one another with topics ranging from sights and sounds of London that were not to be missed, to various planned and unplanned outings.

When they had reached a lesser used path of the park, Georgiana declared a great desire to stretch her legs, and Elizabeth, desiring a walk herself, agreed. Being outnumbered, Darcy called for the carriage to stop, and handed out the two girls.

The three wandered down the path a ways before Georgiana’s gait quickened, separating herself from the other two. Elizabeth could not but chuckle at the young girl’s actions; next time she would not be so well pleased when Jane begged off. It would be easier for Georgiana if she had a companion on such outings. At least the two together would not appear so awkward. Taking the offered arm from the man at her side, she teased, “We appear to have a most obliging chaperone.”

“So it would seem. Perhaps this is an indication that I should be concerned about those lady’s novels she reads.” Darcy lifted a corner of his mouth.

“There is nothing to fear, Fitzwilliam. A girl must be allowed to indulge her romantic notions every once in a while; just as boys must have someone with which to quarrel.” Seeing her companion’s odd look, she snickered.

“And what of your romantic sensibilities?” He cringed the moment the words left his lips, but Elizabeth’s eyes crinkled with mirth.

“I have had my share. Did I not tell you of the loquacious, if not eloquent, offer of marriage Mr. Collins bestowed upon me?” Darcy could not help but laugh.

Not wishing for this particular conversation to continue, Elizabeth changed the subject. “I did not get a chance to tell you last night, but you have a lovely home.”

“Thank you.” He was oddly relieved by her approval. “I would like to give you a more extensive tour soon. Perhaps I can enlist my aunt’s services, so you may view the family apartments as well. It would give you a chance to begin any updates you would like to have made.”

With that statement, the enormity of her engagement struck Elizabeth. She bit her lip and turned away to hide her unease. While in Hertfordshire, it was easy to believe the impact of their arrangement would be minimal; the biggest change being the direction of her letters. Now, she was beginning to realize how naïve she had been. She was to be his wife, and that came with additional expectations. She would be responsible for running his house! She would be required to make decisions regarding the décor, the servants, their guests, even their meals! She swallowed. “That would be lovely… though I saw nothing last night that was in need of my attention.”

“You did not see many of the rooms. There are several that were last updated by my mother.” He looked down at her and smiled. “I wish you to be comfortable in your home.”

She relaxed a bit under his warm look. “Very well. I will take a look.” In a teasing tone, she said, “Is there anything else I should be expected to accomplish while I am in town?”

“Aside from your trousseau, I can think of nothing. However, I dare not speak for my aunt or my sister.” Darcy chuckled. “I believe Georgiana has thought of little else but taking you shopping; and Lady Matlock is determined to make you this season’s most talked about success, and has had nigh two months to plan.”

Elizabeth groaned and muttered, “Out of the pan and into the fire.”

“If it becomes overwhelming, you have but to say the word.” He squeezed her hand, encouragingly. “Though, I was under the impression that all ladies lived for shopping.”

She tried hard not to react to his teasing, but not having been as successful as she had hoped, she changed the subject. “The Blakeslees are kind people; I enjoyed their company very much.”

“Lady Blakeslee appeared quite taken with you.”

“She is very kind. I must confess, I had expected her to be more prejudiced and was a bit nervous.”

“I apologize for that. I had hoped to avoid introductions until you had a chance to be settled, but Wesley had threatened not to leave Arryndale until he had met you.”

Easily imagining the two gentlemen in a stand-off, complete with pointed glares and possibly fencing foils, Elizabeth laughed. “If Lord Blakeslee is half as stubborn as you, I am only too happy to have obliged.” After a pause she said, “Lord Blakeslee seemed rather attentive to Jane.”

“I suppose, but Wesley has always been a bit of a flirt.”

“Then I should not be concerned with the consideration he gives Jane?”

“No. Wesley knows he is destined to marry the daughter of peer. He is only forestalling as long as he can.”

“I suppose that is for the best. Jane has yet to recover her spirits.”

“Bingley?”

“I believe so.” Elizabeth sighed. “Did something occur between Colonel Fitzwilliam and Jane while he was in Hertfordshire?”

“There may have been a small attachment, but I do not think it serious. My cousin is a second son and must marry for fortune.” When Elizabeth said nothing, he asked, “Do you believe there was a strong attachment on Miss Bennet’s side?”

“I am uncertain. Jane has never been one to share her emotions, and since Bingley, she has been more withdrawn than usual. I had thought her to be nursing her wounds, but now I am uncertain.” She looked upward, and noticed his inquisitive look. “She blushed all too much when you mentioned Colonel Fitzwilliam last night.”

“I see.” Mentally, Darcy made a note to discuss this with his cousin. He had carried things too far this time and was in danger of having his honour engaged. “Come. Georgiana has been left on her own long enough. I will speak with Richard… and Wesley... I would not wish your sister injured by either of them.”

“Thank you.”

The cold weather soon forced the party back indoors. The Darcys returned to Arryndale, but not before discussing an invite for Elizabeth and Jane to tea in a few days to meet Lady Matlock.

After the Darcys departed, Elizabeth sat in the front parlour, working on sewing for her aunt, since Jane had offered to read the young ones a story before their nap.

Aunt Gardiner entered with a tray of tea, and after serving both herself and Elizabeth, picked up her own piece of sewing.

“That is a lovely gown,” Elizabeth commented merrily. “Samantha will consider herself quite grown up in it.”

Aunt Gardiner smiled motherly. “Yes, she is so anxious to be a grown up.” With a light laugh, she added, “She declared earlier this morning that when she marries, her beau will just as handsome as Mr. Darcy.”

Elizabeth felt her cheeks grow warm, and all she could do was nod.

“When I was young, it always caused great excitement when the Darcys would come into Lambton. All the young girls would hide behind counters and peek through windows to catch a glimpse of the young master.” Aunt Gardiner chuckled. “Who would have believed that my own niece would become his wife?”

Elizabeth laughed. Even when he was young, Darcy had been a prize to be caught. “Do you think he knew?”

“I do not know. He was always so shy. He would hardly speak to anyone, other than general courtesies.”

“He was never shy around me.”

“You were not a stranger.”

“I suppose not. He was rather reserved in Meryton, but I thought it was something developed when he was older.”

“He may have become more reserved with time, but I believe it was always his nature.”

The two were silent for a bit, while Elizabeth pondered this new information. At first it was difficult to consider the young boy who would dump salt in her tea instead of sugar as shy. However, recalling the often stoic nature of her godfather, it was not such a stretch.

“How was your carriage ride?” Aunt Gardiner asked.

“It was very nice. We passed but a single carriage. I suppose most consider it too cold to be out.”

“You are probably correct.” Her aunt smiled. “And are you pleased with your betrothed?”

“If you are asking if I am having doubts about my engagement, I assure you I am not. I have very much enjoyed becoming reacquainted with Mr. Darcy.” She smiled broadly. “Though I must own, as I realize the magnitude of the home I will be expected to run, I find the prospect a bit daunting.”

Aunt Gardiner nodded knowingly to herself. “You are a smart girl, Lizzy. I am certain you shall do well.”

“Mr. Darcy has said the same...” She took a long sip of tea, suddenly feeling very bashful.

With a secret smile, Aunt Gardiner asked, “Did you not say Mr. Darcy’s aunt was to assist you as well?”

“If she approves of me...” Her feelings suddenly turned to ones of uncertainty.

“You must not worry so much…” Based on the way Darcy had stared at Elizabeth earlier that morning, and Elizabeth’s current reactions, Aunt Gardiner was certain they were both well on their way to falling in love. Once that occurred, she knew nothing would keep them apart, not even a disapproving aunt.

Jane soon joined them, and the three made shopping plans for the next few days. On top of Elizabeth’s trousseau, Aunt Gardiner had declared they were all in need of some new gowns, especially for the night of the theatre.

Darcy sat in his study examining the house accounts and papers from his solicitor. He was unaccountably restless; his thoughts continually turning to Elizabeth. It had been two days since he had seen her. He tried to convince himself the nervousness originated from the meeting that would take place tomorrow between Elizabeth and Lady Matlock. If things went well, Elizabeth’s acceptance amongst the ton would go smoothly. If not… well, there would be challenges.

He looked down at the papers in front of him, and frowned. He looked out the window and could not help but wonder what she was doing at the moment. Probably shopping. Those were the plans. He envisioned her in the shops of Mayfair and Bond Street, her arms laden with various packages. With sudden inspiration, he set his papers aside and called for his carriage.

After wandering the streets, trying to give the appearance of window shopping, Darcy entered the shop of his favoured jeweller. He examined several items, only to decide against them. He stared out the shop window for a minute, but seeing nothing, or perhaps more accurately no one of interest, returned to his task. He examined a few more pieces and shook his head. Shopping for jewellery was much easier when it was for Georgiana. His sister loved any trinket he brought home for her. Elizabeth was another matter. She was his betrothed, and therefore deserved something special.

He wanted something she could wear to the theatre, but had not the faintest idea the colour or style of her gown. Would she opt for a simple white gown, as she had worn at the Meryton Assembly? Or perhaps something more fashionable, like the yellow gown he had seen his sister wearing the other evening? Would she prefer a broach or necklace? He let out a huff of frustration before a simple tear drop pearl pendant with matching earrings caught his eye. It was not gaudy, and could be worn with almost any colour. Perfect! Pleased with his selection, he had the jeweller box and wrap it.

Exiting the shop, he ran into none other than Lord Blakeslee.

“Wesley!” Darcy greeted. Then, recalling the package in his hand, he hid it behind his back.

Unfortunately, his action was too late. “A token for your lady?” Wesley asked with a decided snigger.

“Yes,” Darcy replied, trying to sound nonplussed. “I thought she would like something new to wear to the theatre.”

Wesley chuckled. “Stephen, I see, was only half correct. She shall have you tamed and poor. All by your own doing, I might add.”

“And what brings you out today?” Darcy replied, changing the subject. “Have you perchance met a young lady who has caught your fancy?” He looked pointedly at the package in Wesley’s hand.

“Not at all. It is a book I had ordered for myself, and now I am off to the club. Care to join me?”

“Not this time. I have a great deal of work to be done.”

With that, the two parted ways. Darcy let out a relieved sigh. Lunch at the club was tempting, but he had no doubt of what was in store for him there; a great number of questions and jabs at both his and Elizabeth’s expense. He would have to face them sometime soon, but until Elizabeth’s acceptance by his own family was secure, he did not want to risk it.

Near the end of their first week in London, Elizabeth and Jane were once again in the Darcy carriage on their way to Arryndale House. Today, they were to meet Lady Meredith Fitzwilliam, Countess of Matlock.

The plan was to take tea with the matron and Georgiana, and sometime during the course of the afternoon, tour the mistress’ chambers and family rooms. They would then return that evening for an intimate family dinner that included the Darcys, Fitzwilliams, and Gardiners.

Despite assurances from Jane, her aunt, and even Darcy, Elizabeth was nervous. Everything depended on this meeting. If Lady Matlock did not approve of her, Darcy would most likely break their engagement; and even if he did not, her own conscience would require she do it. She would not allow the Darcys to become a mockery amongst their friends and family; not for her sake.

Before she knew it, the doors of Arryndale’s music room were being opened. The moment had come.

At the sound of the footman, both Darcys stood. Having the advantage of long legs, Darcy was able to outpace his sister, and thus was the first to greet the two sisters. He placed a kiss on Elizabeth’s hand, and then stepped aside while Georgiana greeted them an affectionate hug and kiss on the cheek.

The warm greeting she received from both Darcy and Georgiana, coupled with the confidence that shone in Darcy’s eyes, steadied Elizabeth. By the time she was introduced to Lady Matlock, she was in full possession of herself.

Lady Matlock was everything Elizabeth remembered; tall, beautiful and with a regal air about her. From the moment they were introduced, Elizabeth could feel the lady’s cool blue eyes appraising her.

As Darcy showed her to a seat next to him, she felt her courage rise even more. Darcy was making a statement to both her and his aunt. His plans would remain unchanged, no matter what occurred today.

In a power play of her own, Lady Matlock stated, “Miss Elizabeth, my nephew has charged me with showing you the Mistress’s chambers so they can be prepared for your occupancy. I suggest we view the apartment, and then we can adjourn for tea.” It was a command, not a suggestion. The woman wanted to evaluate Elizabeth in her own time, without Darcy’s interference.

With no choice but to agree, Darcy took his leave, and the four ladies made their way to the main hall. As they made their way through the house to the family apartments, Georgiana provided details about the house and the different rooms they passed.

Elizabeth did her best to attend to Georgiana’s narration, though found it difficult. She could feel Lady Matlock’s eyes boring into her, watching her every move. Was she walking tall enough? Did she say too much, or too little? Was her hair and gown fashionable? Or perhaps she was not pretty enough.

When they reached the mistress’ chambers, Georgiana entered immediately, followed by Lady Matlock. Elizabeth took the moment’s reprieve to once again gather her wits. She gave Jane an uncertain smile and gratefully received an encouraging squeeze of the hand in response. All would be well.

As she entered the room, Elizabeth’s eyes widened. It was yet another display of the changes yet to come. It was a grand change, but a change none the less. The room was nearly the size of her bedroom at Longbourn, which she shared with Jane. Through the open door on the opposite wall, was what she could only surmise was the bed chamber. That these rooms were to be hers alone was astonishing!

After the initial shock wore off, Elizabeth took a more discerning look. The sitting room was adorned by a chaise, a sofa, and two wing-backed chairs set near the fireplace. Along the wall was a small writing desk of rich mahogany, accompanied by a bookshelf, and along the other wall was a side bar with a water pitcher, a crystal wine decanter, and a few glasses.

Elizabeth gently ran her hand over the furniture. She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply, smelling the sweet perfume that she had always associated with Lady Anne. The remembrance nearly brought tears to her eyes.

She was brought from her reverie when Georgiana asked, “Did you visit these apartments when you were younger, Elizabeth?”

Elizabeth started and turned towards her soon to be sister. “I was only here once; I must have been eight or nine at the time.” Her smile broadened at the memory. “My father is not fond of town, so we did not visit here often.” She took a seat near Georgiana on the pink sofa.

“That day I was rather vexed at my father, and Lady Anne brought me here to speak to me on the matter.”

“Why were you upset at your father?”

“Because he would not let me go to the park alone.” Elizabeth chuckled lightly. “I was already used to walking the trails in Hertfordshire alone, and saw no difference between there and London.

“Your mother naturally agreed with my father, though her reasons were different. You see, my father said I could not go because he was afraid I would be taken by gypsies. He did not know at the time, I thought nothing could be more fun than living with gypsies and travelling all over England. Nor did he know that the previous summer I had bet your brother a whole shilling I would see a band of gypsies before he did.”

She smiled at the giggle Georgiana hid behind her hand. She stole a peek at Lady Matlock as well, and could discern the lady trying not to laugh as well.

“In the end, your mother convinced me to stay by telling me she would be very sad if I were to run off with gypsies because then there would be no one to play with her daughter when she had one.” She squeezed Georgiana’s hand affectionately. “I think even then your mother knew she would have a daughter someday.”

She became alarmed when she saw tears forming in Georgiana’s eyes.

“Did my mother truly say that?” Georgiana asked softly.

“She did. She was so very happy when you were born.”

Overwrought, Georgiana impulsively hugged Elizabeth. Then, remembering herself, sat back and said, “Thank you, Elizabeth. I too am very glad you did not run off.” With a mischievous smile, she added, “And so is Fitzwilliam.”

Elizabeth felt her cheeks burn. She was grateful when Lady Matlock gently cleared her throat and suggested they continue on to the other rooms.

With the attention of the room no longer on her, she was able to collect herself and overcome her mortification. She had not intended to share such an embarrassing story, especially in front of Lady Matlock. She could only imagine what the great lady thought of her now. Backwoods hoyden, came to mind. With a sigh, she followed Georgiana and Lady Matlock as they made their way to the bedchamber and the dressing room.

“I would not change a thing,” She heard Jane whisper. Elizabeth agreed.

“Georgiana, your brother would not be offended if I did not change anything, would he?”

The young girl jumped to her brother’s defence. “Oh no!” Then trying to imitate her brother’s tone she said, “But he did say, ‘Make sure she understands no expense is too great. We shall replace everything if she desires.’” The giggle at her poor imitation was contagious, and soon everyone was laughing.

When they had quieted, Elizabeth said, “Then the rooms shall remain as they are. I find my tastes run in harmony with those of Lady Anne.” She paused, looking around again. “I find I like this reminder of her.”

After examining the family rooms, the ladies made their way back to the music room, where tea and cakes had already been set out. After some light conversation, Georgiana and Elizabeth took the opportunity to practice the duet that they were to play that night.

Elizabeth’s earlier confession was long forgotten, and everyone was in a pleasant mood. The congenial mood, however, was interrupted by unexpected guests.

“My dear Georgiana!” a voice that made Elizabeth cringe, simpered. Elizabeth turned to have her suspicion confirmed, and saw Miss Caroline Bingley striding into the room, followed by her sister, Mrs. Hurst.

Elizabeth’s initial reaction was one of anger, but then turned to one of sympathy for Jane. Of all the people in London, Miss Bingley was high on the list of people she had hoped to avoid.

Miss Bingley walked through the room as though she owned it, but upon seeing that Georgiana was not alone, froze in her tracks. Her smile faded, and her annoyance was evident. She managed to recover quickly, and then continued as if nothing untoward had occurred. “It has been ages since we have seen you, my dear. My sister and I have been quite desolate without your company.”

All of Elizabeth’s anger dissipated as she turned her attention to her sister and Georgiana. If she did not already know Miss Bingley intimidated Georgiana, the flush of the girl’s cheeks was telling.

After introductions were completed, Elizabeth invited Georgiana to take a seat next to her and Jane. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst occupied a settee near Lady Matlock. A quiet tension settled over those gathered.

Realizing Georgiana was much too shy to take control of the situation, Elizabeth said, “I am happy to see you and your sister are in good health, Miss Bingley. I trust Mr. Hurst and Mr. Bingley are also in good health?”

She was amused when Miss Bingley’s eyes flashed angrily, confirming her earlier suspicions, that Miss Bingley was indeed involved in Mr. Bingley’s decision not to return to Hertfordshire last December.

“Yes,” Miss Bingley sniped. “Yes, my brother is quite well. In fact, I have never seen him happier. Why just before Christmas, he joined us for dinner with Miss Sutton and her family.” She smiled smugly. “It was quite an enjoyable evening for everyone.”

Elizabeth’s ire rose. Miss Bingley was purposefully trying to hurt Jane. Not willing to allow Miss Bingley to have the last word, she said, “We were sorry to have missed your company the other night. Mr. Darcy had mentioned you were unable to attend dinner, as you were visiting family.”

She was amused when Miss Bingley completely ignored her and turned her focus elsewhere. “Lady Matlock, it is a pleasure to see you. I had no idea you were in town already.”

From the purse of Lady Matlock’s lips, Elizabeth could tell the lady was displeased. It was oddly reassuring. If the lady defended her and Jane, Elizabeth would take it as an indication that there were no objections to her engagement to Darcy.

“We have only made our presence in town known to our family and close friends, Miss Bingley, as we wished to spend the time with our future niece, without distraction.” Lady Matlock said.

Caroline directed a pinched smile at Elizabeth and then turned again to Lady Matlock. “Yes. I must say I was quite… surprised… by the announcement of Mr. Darcy’s engagement. I had always thought – as I am sure you did too – that he would marry a woman of equal standing.”

Elizabeth looked to her sister, unable to hide her astonishment at Miss Bingley’s audacity.

Lady Matlock, however, suffered the insult with aplomb. “My nephew’s choice did surprise us, but Elizabeth is a gentleman’s daughter, so we have no cause to repine.” Lady Matlock reached over and took Elizabeth’s hand affectionately. “My nephew, I know, also finds some assurance in his choice of bride, knowing his mother would heartily approve.” She looked directly at Miss Bingley, her blue eyes narrowed, and with a definite edge in her voice said, “Elizabeth was always a favourite of my late sister.”

Elizabeth was uncertain how to react. Lady Matlock had not only given her tacit approval of the engagement, but had also delivered a very pointed set down to Miss Bingley and her sister. Darcy had mentioned his aunt wielded some power amongst their circle, and Elizabeth could see why. Friend or foe, the lady was not to be trifled with. Thankfully, Lady Matlock appeared to be taking the position of friend.

After a few more words on their travels north, holidays, and other inane comments, Caroline and Louisa declared it was time to leave. With a promise to call on Georgiana at another date, and a request to be remembered to Mr. Darcy, they left.

Once the sisters departed, Elizabeth and Georgiana returned to practicing for the evening’s entertainment, and Jane was left alone with Lady Matlock to watch. The practice session did not run long, and soon Jane and Elizabeth also took their leave to prepare for dinner.