EPILOGUE

T he soft rustle of leaves and the gentle murmur of the nearby lake filled the air as Elizabeth strolled through the gardens of Pemberley. The last few days had been a whirlwind, but they had brought a sense of peace and contentment she had never known before. The sun, warm and golden, bathed the estate in a serene glow, highlighting the vibrant colours of the late autumn blooms.

As she paused by a rosebush, admiring the delicate petals, Mrs. Reynolds approached her, a letter in hand.

"A letter from Meryton, madam," Mrs. Reynolds said with a kind smile, offering the envelope to Elizabeth.

"Thank you, Mrs. Reynolds," Elizabeth replied, returning the smile with one of her own. She recognized Jane's handwriting at once and felt a flutter of anticipation as she opened the letter.

"My dearest Lizzy," the letter began,

I was overjoyed to receive your letter and to hear of your new life at Pemberley. It sounds as beautiful as I imagined, and I am so pleased to know that you are happy there.

Papa has told me that you and Mr. Darcy have grown close, and that you have finally seen the true character of the man who is now your husband. This news warms my heart, Lizzy, for I always believed there was more to Mr. Darcy than met the eye. It brings me such joy to think of you being so well cared for.

Mama is in good spirits, as are our sisters. The house has returned to its usual bustle, though I confess there is still much talk about Lydia and Mr. Wickham. The wedding is to take place at a church in London in three days' time, as the matter is of great urgency.

I should also tell you that Charlotte Lucas and Mr. Collins will be joined in matrimony on that same day. Can you imagine it, Lizzy? Two weddings in one day, though of very different natures! I must admit, I am curious which wedding you will choose to attend—Lydia's or Charlotte's? Perhaps you will find a way to be at both!

And now for the most delightful news: Mr. Bingley has proposed! I am beside myself with happiness, though we have not yet set a date for the wedding. I suspect it will be soon, perhaps shortly after Lydia's wedding. I must thank Mr. Darcy, for Bingley confided that it was a letter from him, urging him not to judge me by the unfortunate scandals that have plagued our family, that encouraged him to act on his feelings. Please convey my deepest gratitude to your husband, for his kindness knows no bounds.

I cannot wait to see you again, Lizzy, whether at my wedding or Lydia's—if you do not choose to favor Charlotte with your presence! Until then, take care of yourself, and give my love to Mr. Darcy.

With all my love,

your ever-devoted sister, Jane."

Elizabeth finished reading the letter with a wide smile playing on her lips. Just then, she heard footsteps approaching and looked up to see Mr. Darcy coming toward her, his expression one of gentle curiosity.

"Why is Mrs. Darcy smiling so beautifully?" he asked, his voice warm with affection.

Elizabeth looked up at him, her heart swelling with love and gratitude. "I am the happiest woman in the world," she replied, her voice soft with emotion. "And it is all thanks to you, for being patient with me, for being the gentleman I never knew I needed."

Darcy reached out, taking her hand in his. "I have only ever wanted your happiness, Elizabeth."

"And you have given it to me," Elizabeth whispered, her eyes shining. "I love you, Fitzwilliam Darcy, more than words can express."

Darcy's eyes softened as he leaned down, pressing his lips to hers in a tender kiss that sealed their love and their future together.

As they stood there, embraced by the beauty of Pemberley and the warmth of their love, Elizabeth knew that this was only the beginning of their journey together—a journey that would be filled with joy, challenges, and a love that would only grow stronger with each passing day.

THE END