23. Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Three

Elizabeth stood by the window in the drawing room, her heart racing with anticipation as she heard the sound of a carriage approaching Darcy House. As the carriage came to a halt, Elizabeth took a deep breath, attempting to calm her nerves.

Moments later, the door opened, and Mr. Darcy strode into the parlour, his eyes immediately seeking hers. Elizabeth noticed a glimmer of joy in his usually stoic expression, and her heart swelled with hope. He approached her, his steps purposeful and assured, and took her hands in his.

"Elizabeth," he began, his voice warm and tender, "I have spoken with my uncle and aunt, and I am delighted to inform you that they have given us their blessing."

Relief and happiness washed over her, and she felt her eyes brim with tears of joy. "Truly, Mr. Darcy? They approve of our union?" Even though the Earl and Countess had made it clear to her that they thought Mr. Darcy should probably have proposed to her already, Lady Catherine's obvious disapproval had made her worry they might reconsider.

He nodded, a rare smile gracing his handsome features. "Indeed, they do. They were most pleased to hear of our engagement and expressed their eagerness to welcome you into the family."

Elizabeth's mind raced with the implications of this news. The approval of the Earl and Countess of Matlock was a significant hurdle to overcome, and their support would undoubtedly help to smooth the way for their marriage in society's eyes. She knew that Lady Catherine would never approve, but the knowledge that Mr. Darcy's closest relatives stood by their side filled her with a sense of comfort and strength.

"Shall we share the happy news with Georgiana?" Mr. Darcy asked, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.

Elizabeth nodded, her heart swelling with affection for the sweet, shy girl who would soon be her sister. "Yes, let us tell her at once. I am eager to see her reaction."

Hand in hand, they made their way to the music room where Georgiana sat practicing at the pianoforte, her delicate fingers dancing over the keys. As they entered, she looked up, greeting them with a questioning smile .

"Georgiana, my dear," Mr. Darcy began, his voice warm and affectionate, "Elizabeth and I have some wonderful news to share with you."

Georgiana's eyes widened, darting between her brother and Elizabeth. "What is it, brother?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Elizabeth stepped forward, taking Georgiana's hands in her own. "Your brother and I are engaged to be married, Georgiana. I am to be your sister."

For a moment, Georgiana seemed stunned. Then, a radiant smile broke across her face, and she jumped to her feet and threw her arms around Elizabeth, embracing her tightly. "Oh, Elizabeth!" she cried, her voice trembling with emotion. "I am so happy for you both! I have longed for a sister, and I could not have wished for a better one than you."

Elizabeth returned the embrace, her own eyes glistening with tears of joy. She had grown to love Georgiana dearly, and the thought of being her sister filled her with a sense of warmth and belonging.

Just then, the door opened, and Colonel Fitzwilliam strode into the room, his handsome face alight with curios ity. "What's all this commotion about?" he asked, his eyes twinkling with mirth.

Mr. Darcy turned to his cousin, his own smile widening. "Richard, Elizabeth has agreed to be my wife. We are to be married."

Colonel Fitzwilliam's eyebrows shot up, and then he let out a hearty laugh. "Well, it's about time, Darcy! I was beginning to wonder if you'd ever come to your senses." He strode forward, clasping Mr. Darcy's hand in a firm shake before turning to Elizabeth. "My dear Miss Bennet, I offer you my heartiest congratulations. You have managed to capture the heart of the most stubborn man in England, and for that, you have my utmost admiration. "

Elizabeth laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Thank you, Colonel Fitzwilliam. I assure you, it was no easy feat."

Georgiana, still clinging to Elizabeth's arm, looked up at her with adoring eyes. "Oh, Elizabeth, I am so happy for you both. You will make my brother the happiest of men, I am sure of it."

Elizabeth smiled down at her soon-to-be sister, her heart swelling with affection. "And he will make me the happiest of women, Georgiana. I have no doubt of that."

Colonel Fitzwilliam, his eyes still dancing with merriment, turned to Georgiana. "Well, little one, it seems we have much to celebrate. Your brother has finally found a woman worthy of him, and you have gained a sister in the process. I daresay this calls for a toast!"

"This early in the day?" Mr. Darcy exclaimed, laughing. "We are not all in the army, cousin! Let us ring for tea, instead."

"Well, if you insist," Colonel Fitzwilliam chuckled. "In truth, I rather forgot the earliness of the hour in my happiness for you! Though I'll beg you to ask for coffee as well as tea."

As they waited for the maid to bring the tea, Elizabeth found herself marvelling at the easy camaraderie between the cousins. It was clear that Colonel Fitzwilliam held Mr. Darcy in high regard, and that the feeling was mutual.

Georgiana, too, seemed to blossom in the presence of her cousin and her brother. Gone was the shy, reserved girl Elizabeth had first met. In her place was a young woman glowing with happiness, her eyes bright and her cheeks flushed with excitement.

As Georgiana poured the tea, Mr. Darcy reached for Elizabeth's hand, his fingers lacing through hers. She looked up at him, her heart skipping a beat at the tender expression on his face.

"To my beautiful bride-to-be," he said, his voice low and filled with emotion. "And to the family we will build together. "

"To Elizabeth and Darcy!" Colonel Fitzwilliam echoed, raising his coffee cup high.

"To my dear brother and sister," Georgiana added, her voice trembling slightly with the depth of her feelings.

As they lifted their cups towards each together, Elizabeth felt a rush of warmth suffuse her entire being. This was her family now - the people who would stand by her side through all of life's joys and sorrows. And at the centre of it all was the man she loved more than she had ever thought possible.

Elizabeth felt a wave of contentment wash over her as she sat surrounded by the warmth and affection of her new family. Georgiana, her initial shyness forgotten, was eagerly discussing the wedding plans, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

"Oh, Elizabeth, we must visit the modiste together! I know of one who creates the most beautiful gowns. And the flowers - I have always loved the scent of lilies. Perhaps we could incorporate them into your bouquet?"

Elizabeth smiled at her future sister's excitement. "I would be delighted, Georgiana. I am sure that together, we will create a wedding that is both beautiful and meaningful."

Colonel Fitzwilliam leaned back in his chair, a mischievous grin playing at the corners of his mouth. "And what of the groom? Darcy, have you given any thought to your attire for the big day?"

Mr. Darcy raised an eyebrow, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "I assure you, Fitzwilliam, I am quite capable of dressing myself for my own wedding."

The Colonel chuckled. "Of course, of course. But you must allow us some input, cousin. After all, it is not every day that the illustrious Mr. Darcy takes a bride. "

As the easy conversation flowed around her, Elizabeth found herself reflecting on the extraordinary turn her life had taken. Just a few short weeks ago, she had been without even a home of her own, forced from it by Mr. Collins' cruelty. And now, here she sat, engaged to one of the most eligible bachelors in all of England, surrounded by a family who had welcomed her with open arms.

It was almost too much to take in, and yet, as she looked around at the smiling faces of her loved ones, Elizabeth knew that there was nowhere else she would rather be. This was her future - a future filled with love, laughter, and the promise of a lifetime of happiness by Mr. Darcy's side.

As the joyous celebrations continued, a sudden thought struck Elizabeth, causing her smile to falter ever so slightly. She turned to Mr. Darcy, her eyes searching his. "Mr. Darcy, what of Lady Catherine? She does not approve of our match."

Mr. Darcy took her hand in his, his expression reassuring. "My dear Elizabeth, I did not doubt that my aunt would express her displeasure at our engagement. Her hopes for a union between myself and Anne have long been a source of contention between us, but you need not worry. The approval of my uncle and aunt Matlock, of Georgiana, and of the Colonel, means far more to me than the disappointed hopes of Lady Catherine. Her opinions will not sway me from my course."

"I am glad to hear it, Mr. Darcy. Your support and the acceptance of your family mean the world to me. I only wish that Lady Catherine could see the depth of our affection and the happiness we bring each other."

Mr. Darcy brought her hand to his lips, placing a gentle kiss upon her knuckles. "In time, perhaps she will come to understand. But for now, let us focus on the joy of our union and the bright future that lies ahead. "

Elizabeth nodded, her spirit lifted by his words. "I… I did not yet tell my mother, nor my sisters."

Mr. Darcy looked at her curiously. "Did you think I would change my mind, and cry off?"

"I… not exactly. But I did have a sudden fear that Lord and Lady Matlock might counsel you to be cautious…"

"I have been a cautious man all my life, Elizabeth; with you I want to throw caution to the winds. Let me assure you now that even if my uncle and aunt had heartily disapproved, even if Fitzwilliam asked me to reconsider, even, forgive me sister, even if Georgiana had cried and begged me to throw you over… I should not dream of letting you go."

Elizabeth's heart swelled with love, though she too cast a quickly apologetic glance at Georgiana, who was actually laughing and shaking her head.

"Never would I do such a thing, brother! And why should you listen to me if I did? I am almost grown and will one day leave you to find a husband and family of my own - you deserve your own happiness!"

"You shall stay with us as long as you wish," Elizabeth insisted.

Georgiana squeezed her hand. "Longer than I otherwise might have, to enjoy having you as my sister all the more."

The two girls embraced, Darcy looking on benevolently, and then Elizabeth drew back. "I really should go to my mother, though."

"Of course," Darcy agreed. "Shall I come with you?"

"If you wish it," Elizabeth said, a little hesitantly, hoping that her mother would not revert to her former silly ways at the news. Mrs. Bennet had been barely recognisable since their ignominious departure from Longbourn, however, and Elizabeth had hopes that the changes for the better might be permanent .

They found Mrs. Bennet sitting quietly in a small parlour, an uncharacteristic air of contemplation surrounding her as she embroidered her initials onto one of her new handkerchiefs. Looking up as Elizabeth came into the room with Darcy on her heels, Mrs. Bennet offered a warm smile.

"Mama," Elizabeth began, her voice soft yet filled with determination. "Mr. Darcy and I have some news to share with you. We are engaged to be married."

Mrs. Bennet's eyes widened, a mix of shock and delight dancing across her features. "Engaged? To Mr. Darcy? Oh, my dear Lizzy, what wonderful news! I always knew that you would make a fine match, but to think that you have secured the hand of such a wealthy and respectable gentleman - it is more than I ever dared to hope for!"

Elizabeth smiled happily in response. Her mother's joy seemed genuine and heartfelt, and expressed with decorum despite her obvious excitement.

Mr. Darcy stepped forward, his tone kind and respectful as he addressed his future mother-in-law. "Mrs. Bennet, I assure you that I am the one who feels most fortunate in this match. Elizabeth's wit, intelligence, and goodness have captured my heart completely, and I promise to devote my life to her happiness and well-being."

Mrs. Bennet dabbed at her eyes with her handkerchief , smiling at his words. "I have no doubts about that, Mr. Darcy. Happy was the day that Mr. Bingley came to Netherfield, and brought you into our lives! You are a true gentleman, and I know that you will make my Lizzy very happy indeed."

Darcy's expression softened, and he spoke with gentle consideration as he posed a thoughtful question. "Mrs. Bennet, as Elizabeth and I embark on this new chapter in our lives, I want to ensure that you are well cared for and happy. Pray, tell me, what are your wishes for your own future?"

Mrs. Bennet paused, considering the question with an uncharacteristic thoughtfulness. "Well, Mr. Darcy, I must admit that I have not given it much thought. With all that has happened, and the changes that have come to our family, I have been quite preoccupied."

Elizabeth watched her mother, a newfound respect blossoming within her as she witnessed the older woman's introspection. Perhaps, with the security of her daughters' futures assured, Mrs. Bennet might find a measure of peace and contentment that had long eluded her.

Mrs. Bennet's eyes brightened as a smile spread across her face. "I believe I shall return to Meryton after your marriage to my Lizzy. It will be a great comfort to be near my sister, Mrs. Philips, and without Mr. Collins there to make me feel uncomfortable… well. I have missed the company of my old friends."

Elizabeth reached out to take her mother's hand, squeezing it affectionately. "I think that is a wonderful idea, Mama. You deserve to be surrounded by those who love and appreciate you."

Mrs. Bennet returned the gesture, her voice filled with excitement. "Oh, yes! It will be just like old times! But what about my other girls… what of Mary, Kitty and Lydia?" A slight shadow crossed her face. "There would not be room for all of us at my sister Philips' house."

"You need not worry about that, Mrs. Bennet," Darcy said soothingly. "I will consult with the younger Misses Bennet, but they have all taken very well to my sister Georgiana, and her companion Mrs. Annesley has agreed to take them all in charge. They will have every advantage in our household, I assure you."

Mrs. Bennet clapped her hands happily. "How very generous of you, Mr. Darcy, they will be sure to find excellent husbands! It is quite a relief not to have to worry about that any more, though I must say my record of finding husbands for my girls is excellent so far… perhaps when I return to Meryton, I shall help Lady Lucas find husbands for Charlotte and Maria!"

Darcy and Elizabeth exchanged a warm glance, both pleased to see Mrs. Bennet so animated and content with her plans for the future.

Later that afternoon, Elizabeth found herself in the drawing room with her sisters and Georgiana, all quietly enjoying various small tasks. Georgiana seemed pensive, however, her brow furrowed in thought as she stared out the window, neglecting her needlework.

"Georgiana, is something troubling you?" Elizabeth asked gently, setting aside her book.

Georgiana turned to face her future sister, a determined glint in her eye. "Elizabeth, I have been thinking a great deal about my future, and I have come to a decision. I wish to further my education and expand my knowledge."

Elizabeth's heart swelled with pride at Georgiana's declaration. "That is a most admirable goal, Georgiana. Pray, tell me, what subjects do you wish to study?"

Georgiana's face lit up with enthusiasm. "I should like to delve deeper into history and literature, for I find great joy in learning about the past and the works of great authors. I also wish to improve my proficiency in French and Italian, as I believe it will broaden my understanding of the world."

Elizabeth nodded in approval, her own love of learning resonating with Georgiana's aspirations. "I think that is a wonderful plan, Georgiana. Your brother and I will support you in every way possible. You have a bright and curious mind, and it is a gift to be nurtured."

Georgiana's eyes shone with gratitude and determination. "Thank you, Elizabeth. Your encouragement means the world to me. I am so fortunate to have you as a sister and a friend."

Elizabeth marvelled at the growth and confidence she had witnessed in Georgiana. The once shy and timid girl was blossoming into a young woman of substance and purpose, ready to embrace the challenges and joys of life with an open heart and a keen mind.

Mary had clearly been listening to their conversation, because she set aside her book and spoke up too. "May I ask you something too, Elizabeth?"

Elizabeth smiled warmly at her sister, sensing the importance of the moment. "Of course, Mary. What is on your mind?"

Mary took a deep breath, her hands clasped tightly before her. "I have been giving a great deal of thought to my future, and I too wish to pursue further learning, to expand my knowledge and skills beyond what I have already acquired."

"Mary, that is a most admirable endeavour. I am so proud of you for taking this step. What areas of study do you wish to focus on?" Elizabeth was quite sure Mr. Darcy would be supportive of whatever Mary wished to do.

Mary's face brightened, her enthusiasm palpable. "I should like to delve deeper into philosophy and theology, for I find great solace and inspiration in the works of great thinkers. I also wish to improve my proficiency in Latin and Greek, as I believe it will enhance my understanding of the classics."

Elizabeth reached out and took Mary's hands in her own. "I think that is a wonderful plan, Mary. Your dedication to learning is truly inspiring. I shall support you in every way possible, and I have no doubt that you will excel in your pursuits… and I think Papa would be very happy in the path you have chosen."

Mary's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "Thank you, Elizabeth. Your support means everything to me."

"What of us?" Kitty and Lydia abandoned any pretence of trimming their bonnets and hastened to ask Elizabeth about their futures. "Are we to go back to Meryton with Mama?"

Neither looked particularly pleased by that prospect, Elizabeth was glad to see, despite the presence of the militia still in Meryton.

"Well, Mr. Darcy has made a suggestion that you might like to join Georgiana's household, under the supervision of Mrs. Annesley." Elizabeth glanced over at the sensible, kindly companion, who smiled warmly and nodded her head. "He has also proposed that we hire tutors for you both, or that you share Georgiana or Mary's tutors, if you wish to share in the same learning they have. It is my firm belief that education is the key to personal growth and fulfilment, and Mr. Darcy and I are both committed to providing you with the best possible opportunities."

"Tutors?" Lydia exclaimed, her eyes wide with surprise. "But what shall we study?"

Elizabeth shrugged her shoulders. "The subjects will be tailored to your individual interests and needs. Perhaps you might pursue the study of modern languages, such as French or Italian, or delve into the arts, such as music or drawing."

Lydia clapped her hands in delight. "Oh, I should love to learn to play the pianoforte as beautifully as Georgiana does!"

"And I think I should like to study painting," Kitty declared. "And perhaps learn to speak French, that sounds exciting!"

"And geography! I want to travel one day," Lydia added. "Have you seen the atlas in the library here, Lizzy? Mr. Darcy caught me looking at it, and I thought he might be dreadfully cross, but instead he pointed out where Paris and Brussels are when I asked…"

As the conversation continued, Elizabeth marvelled at the positive changes taking place within her family. Mary's dedication to her studies, Georgiana's newfound determination, and now the prospect of further education for Kitty and Lydia—all of these developments filled her heart with joy and hope for the future. And all of them were courtesy of Mr. Darcy's generosity and kindness.

Lady Matlock paid a visit that afternoon, happily coinciding with a call from Mrs. Gardiner. The two women had rather taken to each other when they met at Jane and Bingley's wedding, and showed signs of developing a fast friendship, despite their different stations in life.

"Mrs. Gardiner, I must express my admiration for your nieces. They are truly remarkable young women," Lady Matlock noted as she sipped her tea and watched Elizabeth and Georgiana performing a delightful duet at the pianoforte, both of them laughing happily.

Mrs. Gardiner returned the smile, her eyes shining with pride. "Thank you, Lady Matlock. I am exceedingly proud of them all."

"I understand that Mr. Darcy has arranged for tutors to guide them in their studies and preparation for society," Lady Matlock continued, her tone filled with approval. "I think it a most excellent idea."

"Indeed, it is," Mrs. Gardiner agreed. "The girls are eager to learn and expand their knowledge. I am grateful for Mr. Darcy's generosity and concern for their well-being. "

Lady Matlock nodded, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Mrs. Gardiner, while I think Mrs. Annesley a most competent lady, I do think managing four young ladies may be quite a lot for her to handle during the times when Darcy and Elizabeth must be away at Pemberley. If you would be agreeable, I would like to propose that you and I work together to guide these young ladies during their time in London. I feel a particular responsibility towards Georgiana, of course, but I have grown rather fond of all the Bennet sisters. With your insight and my experience, I believe we could provide them with valuable support and advice."

Mrs. Gardiner's eyes widened in surprise, but a warm smile spread across her face. "Lady Matlock, I am honoured by your suggestion. I would be delighted to work alongside you in this endeavour. The girls will undoubtedly benefit from your wisdom and guidance."

"Excellent!" Lady Matlock declared, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "We shall make a formidable team, Mrs. Gardiner. Together with Mrs. Annesley, we will ensure that these young ladies are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that await them."

As the two women continued their conversation, Elizabeth found herself marvelling at the unexpected turn of events. The idea of Lady Matlock and her Aunt Gardiner joining forces to support her sisters filled her with a sense of comfort and gratitude. She caught Darcy's eye from across the room, and the tender smile he gave her spoke volumes of his own satisfaction with the arrangement.

Elizabeth took a moment to observe the scene before her as the afternoon continued. Georgiana and Mary were engaged in an animated discussion about their upcoming lessons, their faces alight with enthusiasm. Kitty and Lydia, too, seemed eager to embark on this new chapter in their lives, their chatter filled with excitement and anticipation.

"I cannot thank you enough, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth said softly, her eyes shining with emotion as she turned to face her betrothed. "Your kindness and generosity towards my sisters have been truly remarkable."

Darcy reached for her hand, his touch reassuring. "Elizabeth, your happiness and the well-being of your family are of the utmost importance to me. I am merely doing what I believe is right and necessary."

As Elizabeth gazed at the man she loved, she felt a wave of contentment wash over her. "There is but one more thing I would ask of you," Elizabeth said, hopeful that he would be agreeable to her proposal. "I wish to wait until Jane and Bingley return to London for our wedding to take place. It would mean the world to me to have my dearest sister by my side on such a momentous occasion."

Darcy's eyes softened, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Of course, Elizabeth. I understand completely. Your sister's presence will undoubtedly add to the joy of our special day. I have already set my man about procuring a special licence so we can marry whenever and wherever we wish… you need only name the date and the place."

Elizabeth's heart swelled with love and gratitude, marvelling at the depth of Darcy's understanding and his willingness to accommodate her wishes. She could not quite resist teasing him, however. "You are too obliging, Mr. Darcy! Are you not afraid I shall demand the moon and stars on a silver platter? "

"If you would like them, I shall endeavour to obtain them for you," Mr. Darcy replied, quite deadpan. "They could not outshine the beauty of your eyes, however. And Lady Matlock might be quite offended if you were to wear them on our wedding day, instead of the Matlock diamonds which she planned to loan you."

"The Matlock diamonds!" Elizabeth's eyes flew wide, and she stared at him, shocked.

"They will look marvellous on you," Lady Matlock called across the room. "A lovely tiara, a necklace, bracelets and earbobs. Darcy, you will need to buy her some jewels of her own, of course!"

"Whatever Mrs. Darcy desires, she will have," Darcy promised, and from Lady Matlock's side, Mrs. Bennet could not quite resist giving a little shriek of happiness.

"You are too generous," Elizabeth said, before giving voice to her true concern. "I bring nothing to this marriage, Mr. Darcy, nothing but dependents and…"

"You bring yourself." Darcy lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her fingertips tenderly. "And that is all I have ever wanted."