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Chapter Fourteen: Normalcy

Posted on Friday, 22 June 2007

Georgiana arrived at Darcy’s in a huff. She greeted her brother with the briefest of kisses on the cheek, before absconding into her room. Darcy looked to Richard who only rolled his eyes.

“She’s angry James wasn’t invited, she could miss finals, she didn’t have enough time to pack, and any hundred of other things.” Richard said blandly rolling his eyes. “I had to listen to it all the way from airport.”

Darcy shook his head and clapped his cousin on the shoulder. “Thanks. I’ll take her shopping and it’ll be forgotten. Would a brandy help?”

Richard nodded gratefully. “How’s Liz doing?”

Darcy stretched out in a comfortable in a well cushioned chair. “She’s sleeping.” He responded.

Richard flopped onto the sofa and took a long draw on his drink. The two sat in silence, each contemplating the words Darcy had not said. Fine? Physically perhaps. Mentally and emotionally, was another story that was unfolding little by little, day by day.

Darcy stared unseeing at the floor in front of him. Unawares he was talking aloud, Darcy said, “She’s scared to be alone.” He didn’t notice the way Richard’s lips tightly pursed at the statement.

“You tell her about the bodyguard?” Richard inquired.

Darcy’s head bobbed up and down as he continued studying the carpet. “Told her everything. She didn’t argue any of it, which has me worried.”

Richard’s lip curled up in a sarcastic manner. “Gina is less than thrilled with the idea of a bodyguard.”

Darcy rolled his eyes. He had always tried to be accommodating to his sister, but at the moment could care less what she wanted, it as for her own safety. “Maybe she’ll change her mind when she sees what happened to Elizabeth.” He couldn’t help the sarcastic snort that preceded the statement.

Richard walked to the bar and poured himself another brandy. He offered the bottle to Darcy who declined. “Go get some sleep cuz. You still look like hell.” Before Darcy could protest he said, “I’ll stay here for a couple days; help make sure Gina doesn’t get any bright ideas.”

Darcy smiled gratefully.

Georgiana had developed her brother’s stubbornness. In collusion with her own intelligence, she sometimes proved to be a formidable opponent, especially when she believed she was being treated unfairly – like now. The girl had lived a somewhat sheltered life and so she often failed to see the dangers others saw as common sense. Both Richard and Darcy knew her well enough to believe she was probably at this moment trying to figure out a way to sneak out of the house and return to New York.

Elizabeth’s reaction to the robbery stupefied everyone. Generally, known to be unflappable, her lapsing into a state of shock was completely unexpected. Anger was expected, tears, possibly, but frozen in shock?

For what seemed like hours, Elizabeth was unresponsive; she stared unseeing at the wall in front of her - never even blinking, and muttered unintelligible words.

Needless to say, Elizabeth’s reaction created a great deal of consternation for Darcy. More telling of the gravity of the situation however, was the level of distress seen in Richard. It was long known Darcy had a fierce protective streak when it came to those close to him, which often caused him to overreact. Richard was almost the complete opposite though; he tended to take a hands-off approach, only intervening when he believed it was necessary. So, when Richard became agitated, even Georgiana became sullen.

With two edgy protectors hovering nearby, it was not surprising that when Elizabeth suddenly grimaced and clutched her stomach she found herself once again under the care of the emergency medical staff at St. Lawrence’s before she had a chance to object.

It took a few hours for her to be coaxed out of her state of shock, and when she finally was, the tears poured forth unending. The fact the tears were an improvement and rather therapeutic was lost on Darcy - all he knew was Elizabeth was hurting and there was nothing he could do to help. He sat with her for several hours, letting her soak his shirt with her tears and offering gentle kisses at regular intervals.

Thankfully, in the pre-dawn hours, three very weary inhabitants of Darcy’s apartment returned home with a sleeping, but responsive and still pregnant Elizabeth.

At brunch the following morning, Jane and Charles provided an overview of the previous evening. A quick inventory of Elizabeth’s place told them pretty much anything of value was gone. Elizabeth’s jewelry, her television and stereo, CDs, and any other electronics were all gone. While Jane could identify the larger stuff that was missing, smaller items like specific pieces of jewelry were harder for her determine, and Elizabeth would have to tally the losses herself. After a vehement argument, Elizabeth’s resolve was ground into submission and she agreed to another day of rest before seeing the apartment.

The events of the previous evening and the discovery of a few books by Jane and Charles made it impossible to keep the news of the Christmas arrival a secret. So it was with little surprise when Darcy announced, “As you are all aware, it is a tradition to attend Pemberley for Thanksgiving and Christmas. However, with no small pleasure, I must inform you that you are all on your own this year.” Pausing for effect, Darcy continued. “Elizabeth and I will be remaining in Chicago this year awaiting the birth of our child which is due December 10.”

Congratulations and best wishes were shared around the table. Though Darcy was greatly relieved to share his good fortune with those closest to him, the mirth of the news was somewhat diminished by recent events.

“Elizabeth Bennet!” Charlotte’s reproachful voice came over the phone.

“Hi Charlotte.” Elizabeth said, still partially asleep.

“I had to find out my best friend was brutally attacked from the local news?” Came the reproachful voice. “Why may I ask have I not heard from you yet?”

“Because I’ve been sleeping.” Elizabeth replied dryly.

“No excuse,” came the petulant retort.

Elizabeth groaned. “Sorry Charlotte. Things have just been a little crazy. I haven’t talked to anyone lately.

Charlotte calmed down and sounding sincere asked, “How are you doing?”

“I’m doing alright. Some of it still seems so surreal.” Elizabeth answered honestly. “But William’s been a great help.”

Charlotte snickered. “I saw Mr. Hot Pants on television.”

Elizabeth chuckled. “Right. He told me about the press conference.”

“He’s hotter in person you know. And tell him anytime he wants to take care of me, I’m all his.”

Elizabeth laughed at her friend’s antics. Leave it to Charlotte to ask something so ridiculous. “Uh, I don’t think I’m going to tell him that. Besides, I’m pretty sure there is a line.”

“Some friend you are.” Charlotte pouted. In a sincere tone she asked, “Seriously Lizzy, Are you doing alright?”

Elizabeth swallowed the lump in her throat and then managed to say relatively convincingly, “Yes. I’m going to be fine.” She suddenly wanted the conversation to end, and end quickly. Hoping she didn’t sound too dismissive she said, “Charlotte, thanks for calling, but I really need some rest if I’m returning to work in a few days. But I’ll catch up with you soon.”

Finally, Elizabeth and Darcy had some time alone. Georgiana was pouting in her bedroom, Richard had busied himself in the pool room, and all other guests had returned home. It had felt like weeks, but had actually only been a few days. Darcy pulled Elizabeth into his arms, letting her relax with her back against his chest. This had become his favorite position for holding her since news of the baby because it gave him a complete access and view of her stomach. He often stared at her stomach, hoping perhaps if stared long enough at her belly, she would increase faster. He desperately wanted more proof of the child growing inside her. “How are you feeling my love?” He muttered as he placed delicate kisses on her shoulder.

“Mmmm…” came a muted purr. Elizabeth nestled up against him, enjoying the warmth and security his arms provided.

Darcy’s hand moved to her stomach. “And how is our little one?”

Elizabeth smiled. “Just fine. He’s decided he would like a little nutrition after all. I managed to keep breakfast and lunch down yesterday, and lunch down today.”

Darcy chuckled. “So you’re giving up being an anorexic?”

Elizabeth sat up pretending to be offended. “First you knock me up and then you mock me?”

Darcy replied by taking her face firmly into his hands and pressing a kiss to her lips.

Elizabeth stiffened and inhaled sharply. “I’m sorry.” Elizabeth said meekly. Tears welled up in her eyes. “It’s just…”

Darcy closed his eyes and silently cursed Wickham again. He pulled her to his chest. “I know.” He said, sounding calmer than he felt. Inside, Darcy was a veritable monstrosity, seeking to destroy all things Wickham. But he knew if Elizabeth was to recover, he could not let her see that. He felt Elizabeth shift against him. When he looked down, Elizabeth was intently looking at his lips but her eyes were pooled with tears.

“Kiss me.” She breathed, her voice not strong enough for anything louder.

“Are you sure?” Darcy asked, brushing the once swollen cheek tenderly. “I can wait until you’re ready.”

Elizabeth set her chin in determination and nodded. A few tears managed to escape.

Darcy wiped the tears from her cheeks with his thumbs. “I love you.” He whispered. Slowly and gently Darcy brushed his lips against hers. He pulled away and looked down to gauge her reaction. Before it could register though, he felt Elizabeth pull him down to her and forcefully pressed her lips against his.

It was like he was kissing a pillow, soft by absolutely no emotion. He wanted to pull away, but Elizabeth held him in place. Slowly, he felt Elizabeth relax and deepen the kiss into something more loving. He let her lead, responding only as she did.

When she broke the kiss to catch her breath, he searched her face for hints of what she thinking. There was no more fear or wildness in her eyes, only a faint spark of passion, softened by tenderness. “Thank you.” She whispered.

He gently kissed her again, surprised to feel only a moment of hesitancy. Her lips parted and he felt her tongue prompt his to do likewise. He let out a soft moan. He broke the kiss and stared into her eyes. She was his again. He stared transfixed by her strength to overcome such a recent trauma. “You are a magnificent woman Elizabeth” He whispered. He rubbed his nose against hers causing her to smile in a very endearing manner.

The weekend was mercifully quiet, giving everyone a chance to regroup and recuperate and prepared for the coming week.

Elizabeth finally had a chance to speak with Mary at length. She explained everything that had happened. Mary offered sincere concern and sorrow at what Elizabeth had suffered, and offered to come to Chicago to help, but Elizabeth declined. The last thing she was going to do was put her sister in danger. Additionally, she planned on returning to work the following Monday, making the timing poor. And if the other two weren’t reason enough, Elizabeth was staying at Darcy’s for the time being and they really didn’t need another person there, despite the abundance of rooms.

As an alternative, Elizabeth suggested Mary take a class at the community college that Elizabeth would pay for, and if she did well in her classes, Mary could come spend a few weeks with her in Chicago. Elizabeth was overjoyed when Mary agreed. Her efforts were not going to waste and Mary seemed to be blossoming. Elizabeth knew Mary would no longer be content to live out her days on the farm, her nose buried in books, isolated from the rest of the world.

It had been almost a week since Wickham’s attack and Elizabeth was getting restless. Her headaches were only intermittent and dizzy spells were few and far between. Since being released from the hospital, she had spent any appreciable time outside the confines of the apartment, and there was only so much reading and cartoon watching a person could do. Not to mention Darcy’s hovering was beginning to grate her nerves.

She was in desperate need of the distraction only work could provide. At the office, she would have status reports to review, production reports to examine, proposals to write, and budgets to approve.

She was so anxious to return to work that, unbeknownst to Darcy, Elizabeth had spent Sunday evening trying on clothes. She was extremely frustrated to find most of her work apparel did not fit very well. Some of it she couldn’t fit into at all, and others fit very snug. With the right clothes, she could hide her widening stomach, but most of those clothes were not appropriate for the office. Frustrated, she separated out the few items she could still fit into with the help of a few well placed safety pins, and had to hope no one would ask any questions. It was time to go shopping.

Darcy spent the weekend catching up on work that had been neglected the past week, catching up on sleep, and realizing what a sheltered life he had lived, having missed out on some of the best cartoons ever – as they had been deemed by Elizabeth. Admittedly, he found some of them particularly entertaining. Though he found the idea of two adults, nay two executives of a multi-billion corporation, watching cartoons more amusing. But, knowing Elizabeth as he did, he should have expected nothing less. And truth be told, after four days of turmoil and living on edge – he welcomed the days of peace and tranquility.

None-the-less, he too was anxious to get back into the office. He had been delaying some things that required stuff in the office because he didn’t want to leave Elizabeth or Georgiana just yet. But both of them seemed to be doing well and he would spend the day in his office on Monday.

Monday morning Elizabeth showered and dressed as quietly as possible. She even ventured to use the guest shower so as not to rouse Darcy. The two had had their share arguments over the particular subject of her return to work. Darcy naturally wanted Elizabeth to wait a few more days; Elizabeth however was certain if she waited any longer she would go crazy. The argument had ended the same way each time – to discuss it later.

So it was, Monday morning Elizabeth was counting her blessings Darcy had not yet woken when she left the bed. She was quickly eating some toast and was about to gather the last of her things when she was startled by deep parental voice. “Elizabeth, what do you think you are doing?”

Elizabeth turned and smiled sweetly. “Eating breakfast.” She said, deliberately avoiding the subject.

Darcy gave her a disapproving look. In a highly suspicious tone he asked, “Since when does eating breakfast alone require a suit?”

“William, I need to get out of here for a little bit.” Elizabeth said exasperated. “I feel pretty good and I promise to come home if I get a headache or start feeling dizzy. And Batman will be with me so I’ll be safe.”

“Batman?” Darcy inquired.

Elizabeth giggled. “Alan doesn’t sound very scary so I decided to call him Batman. Gina’s bodyguard is Robin. It’s a much more fun this way, and they doesn’t mind.” Elizabeth winked at the heavily built man sitting in the kitchen waiting to escort Elizabeth. The man had the good sense to avert his eyes.

Darcy shook his head, suppressing a smirk. “So does that make me Bruce Wayne or Dick Grayson?”

Elizabeth giggled, happy to be off the topic of the office. “Bruce Wayne of course, Cas is Dick Grayson.”

Darcy pondered this and laughed. Oddly, the analogy seemed to fit rather well. He had apparently watched far too many cartoons in the past week! A slight shake of the head brought him back to the original discussion. “Back to the topic; you need to rest a few more days.”

Elizabeth pursed her lips, looking every bit the annoyed executive. “I’ll be home around noon.”

Pressing his point Darcy said, “You were in the hospital just two days ago, and I have no desire to repeat that night.”

Elizabeth stood definitely, her arms crossed across her chest. “It was three.”

Darcy grumbled. He knew this was not an argument he was going to win. It certainly didn’t help that she looked incredibly alluring in that suit, distracting him from forming rational arguments. Choose your battles. “If you’re not home by noon, I will come to your office and personally see you home, even if I have to throw you over my shoulder.”

Elizabeth laughed. She threw Darcy a saucy look. “That would be amusing.” She intoned.

Darcy looked at her sternly, but he could not hide the twinkle in his eye. “Do not tempt me madam.” His demeanor changed more serious as he wrapped his arms around her waist. “Promise me you’ll be careful.”

Elizabeth smiled a soft tender smile, touched by his genuine concern. “I promise.”

“And you’ll call me as soon as you get home?”

Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “I will call you the minute I am back.”

Darcy placed a gentle kiss to her lips. She did not flinch or hesitate. In a low voice Darcy said, “I worry about you.”

Despite their time together, Elizabeth had still not accustomed herself to how incredibly vulnerable he could be. She had been attracted to him for his strength, and his ability to stand up to her, and his decisive nature. Admittedly, she liked seeing he needed and wanted her; it endeared him to her more. However, the new depth of his vulnerability she had witnessed recently unnerved her a little. She wasn’t sure she could live up to that, nor was she certain her feelings were the same. Uncomfortable, Elizabeth decided to change the subject. “I need to get some new clothes.” She lifted her shirt to show Darcy the tightly stretched waistband of her skirt. “Do you think Gina will be up for some shopping later this week?”

Darcy smiled. He kissed his first two fingers and pressed them to her belly. “Gina is always up for shopping.”

“I’ll see how I’m feeling when I get home, and then I’ll talk to her about it.” Elizabeth said. She nodded to Batman indicating her readiness to leave.

“Take care of her.” Darcy said to the man in a warning tone.

“Of course Mr. Wayne.” The man replied, his eyes averted but with a definite smirk.

Darcy rolled his eyes. She infected everyone around her! He briefly wondered what would happen when she began occupying the PMB executive offices.

Elizabeth’s return to work was more eventful than she had hoped. She was greeted by a number of well wishers and those who were simply curious. She was after all a local celebrity not long ago. Other’s had questions about Darcy and her relationship, whether or not she was going to sue the Art Institute and other inane questions.

Finally around nine-thirty, Elizabeth gave instructions to Anne that she would not be accepting any other visitors, save the company COO. The two then sorted through her pile of reports and communications and sorted them into neat stacks of urgent, high, medium, and low priority. With any luck, she would get through the urgent and high stack by the end of the week.

It was great being back in the office! Elizabeth felt completely re-engergized! Before she knew it was past noon. She felt a headache coming on, but in no way felt tired. Realizing the time, she grabbed half the items from the Urgent pile to bring home with her and headed home. She didn’t put it past Darcy to make good on his word.

She smiled to herself as she realized the leap in their relationship she had made. She had thought nothing of calling Darcy’s apartment home. Of course having lived there the past week had made that feeling more so. Despite her level of comfort at Darcy’s, part of her yearned to return to her own apartment. For some reason she was not ready to give up that part of her independence. She certainly enjoyed waking up next to Darcy, but there was a certain freedom she missed from her own place. Perhaps it was the freedom she felt to crank up the radio and dance and sing, without concern for anyone else. Or just knowing that it was her place and she could do as pleased.

She sighed as she realized there was a lot to be done before she could move back there, and part of her was apprehensive about doing so. But she was determined; by the end of the week she would spend the night at her place.

It was a quarter to noon and Darcy sat impatiently in his office. He refused to take any phone calls and checked his cell phone signal several times. Still he had not received a phone call from Elizabeth. He attempted to busy himself with work, looking over some information on Longbourn facilities. The minutes passed by slowly, far too slowly. And he really could not recall anything the report said.

Noon came with still no phone call. Darcy began pacing. He had asked Monica to check the phones and he had called his place twice. No avail. He didn’t want to call Elizabeth directly knowing she would not take kindly to him checking up on her. His imagination started running rampant; he valiantly pushed thoughts of Wickham having found her out of his head. She has a bodyguard called Batman. She is safe. He chuckled again at the name; it was so much like her to make a grave situation more upbeat.

He was considering making good on his threat when his phone rang. It was twelve forty-three. Darcy’s heart was beating rapidly but he answered the phone in amazing calm. “William Darcy.”

“I’m fine and I’m home.” Came the sweet voice.

Darcy expelled the breath he didn’t realize he was holding. “You’re late.” Came the scolding, terse reply.

Elizabeth chuckled. “I lost track of the time. I have a month’s worth of work to catch up on you know.”

Darcy grumbled something unintelligible. “How are you feeling?”

“A little tired, with only a minor headache.”

Darcy sighed with relief. “Take a nap sweetheart, and call me if you go out again. Better yet, don’t go out again.”

“Quit worrying so much.” Elizabeth quipped. “Batman took good care of me.”

Darcy grumbled again.

Another week passed with little progress on the capture of Wickham. The private investigators however believed they were getting close. Wickham had left a trail when he pawned some of Elizabeth’s items, and was certainly in the Chicago area. Unfortunately, that was a large area, and for someone paying cash, it was making it hard to track him – especially since they had tracked him to the south part of the city, where no one talked.

So it was with a small amount of relief when Darcy had also received a communication from Wickham.

Darcy,

May I offer you congratulations! I understand now you have three requiring my protective services. My fees are as follows: $500,000 for Georgiana, $500,000 for Elizabeth, $750,000 for your child.

Cash only in $50 and $20 bills.

Drop details to come.

-GW

The note in some ways was good; it meant things were progressing. The price was hefty, but manageable. However, the fact that the price was manageable concerned Darcy. He had a feeling this was only one of several payments Wickham would be exacting. The sum would buy a few years of peace, but knowing Wickham, this would not be the end, even if he paid the man now. He was also dismayed to learn that Wickham knew about the baby however. This increased the risk to Elizabeth, was clear in the note.

He informed Elizabeth about the note, which she received as well as could be expected. He however did not share his belief that this would be the end of it. That he would take to his grave and hope he was wrong.

Despite the slow progress, Darcy, Elizabeth, and Georgiana maintained relatively high spirits. Georgiana had come around and she and Elizabeth were becoming friends. The news of the baby had helped endear Elizabeth to the younger woman, as had the opportunity to go shopping with her. Seeing the bruises and the effect the assault had taken on Elizabeth, Georgiana had also come to a better understanding of the danger she was in and the necessity of the precautions Darcy was taking; she no longer fought him on issues of her safety.

Darcy also noticed that time with Elizabeth had returned some of Georgiana’s playfulness. Much like her brother, Georgiana took things very seriously, no doubt resulting from the influence of Sylvia and aunt Margaret. It was a change Darcy welcomed and hoped remained, even when she returned to school.

Elizabeth, with Darcy and Jane’s help had cleaned up her apartment and had even started replacing some of the missing items. It was a daunting and emotionally difficult task to say the least, but the worst was over. The place was beginning to take on the familiar feel of her home. Slowly Elizabeth spent more and more time there and aside from the presence of her bodyguard, she even spent some time there alone. She was healing and things were returning to normal, albeit slowly.

The first night she spent alone in her apartment was difficult to say the least. Darcy had wanted to stay with her, but she had been insistent. She knew it would never be her place again until she was comfortable staying there alone. That night, she did not sleep much and jumped at every sound. The second night was a little better and she managed to get a few hours of sleep. Whether it was from exhaustion or actual comfort she wasn’t sure. By the third night, her lack of sleep was attributed more to missing a warm body and a pair of strong arms around her than fear. She still had trouble calling the place home and exorcising all the demons, but she knew that would only pass with time. She was determined to get her life back together, and when determined, very little could stop her.

Darcy had been less than enthusiastic about Elizabeth returning to the place, especially with Wickham still at large - at least that was the excuse he gave. While there was some truth to that statement, he knew her bodyguards would do their job. The greater truth was, he rather enjoyed coming home to Elizabeth or knowing he could expect her to walk through the door soon. He loved waking up to the smell of her on the pillows and feeling her next to him at night. On more than one occasion, he had considered asking Elizabeth to move in with him and give up her apartment all together - but somehow knew she wasn’t ready for that, and the timing wasn’t right.

By mid-May, Elizabeth and Darcy had resumed work schedule more reflective of their hours before the purchase of Longbourn. Except for the constant appearance of the bodyguards, and small outbursts due to the stress of the looming dark cloud, things seemed to be returning to normal. Elizabeth had planned a week of travel soon, which caused Darcy a great deal of angst, but he knew there was little he could do to stop it. Instead, he decided he meet up with her - for business purposes of course. He, PMB’s COO, and the Vice President of his Dallas plants would tour Elizabeth’s plants. It was something that needed to be done for consolidation purposes, and as they say, there is no time like the present.

Darcy with the help of Charles planned a rather extravagant Mother’s Day. Darcy and Charles surprised everyone with a day trip to Milwaukee in honor of the person they both considered to soon be their mother-in-law. Knowing all too well the importance of appearances to Mrs. Bennet, with the consent of Jane and Elizabeth, Charles and Darcy arranged a special dinner in town, using the limousines for transportation. The two couples agreed that such special treatment would provide Mrs. Bennet with plenty to gloat over to her friends - without the usual crass references to their material wealth.

The primary purpose of the trip for Darcy was to inform the rest of the family about the baby. With Elizabeth’s concurrence, he decided that since the news was leaking out, it would only be a matter of time before it reached Milwaukee and it would be most imprudent for Mrs. Bennet to learn she was to be a grandmother from the rumor mill. The secondary purpose was to arrange for Elizabeth’s horses to be sent to Pemberley for the summer.

For Charles, he simply wanted to ingratiate himself into the family further. It would also give Jane a chance to tend to some wedding details that were more difficult to deal with so far away.

So it was that early Sunday morning two limousines set off for Milwaukee, one was Charles’, the other Darcy’s. The four arrived around nine in the morning for a late breakfast, courtesy of Mary and Lydia - though Lydia’s contribution was little more than setting the table.

Mr. Bennet, highly amused, watched as Darcy effectively but quietly re-arranged the placement of dishes on the table; he moved dishes such as eggs - that he knew made Elizabeth sick - far away from her, while pulling other dishes, such as a the juice and toast closer to her. The man was devoted to her, there was no denying that.

Mrs. Bennet’s spent breakfast praising and thanking her younger two for the breakfast, talking of Jane and Charles’ wedding, and dropping not so subtle hints to Elizabeth and Darcy. Deciding there would be no better time, Elizabeth and Darcy made their announcement.

“Mamma,” Elizabeth said a little slowly, “William and I thought you should know that in December you shall be a grandmother.”

Mrs. Bennet was stunned by the news, but unfortunately she recovered quickly and her effusions over the news reached new levels.

It was such that after just a few minutes, Mr. Bennet decided retreat was required and rapidly escaped to the safety of his basement, leaving Elizabeth and Darcy to fend for themselves, aided only by the meager assistance of Jane.

“Oh! My Lizzy! How brilliant you are!” Mrs. Bennet screeched. “Showing Mr. Darcy you are capable of producing him an heir.” Looking at Darcy she added. “I am quite aware of the importance of you having an heir sir and it would be imprudent of you to secure a wife only to find out later she was barren.”

Both Elizabeth and Darcy flushed in mortification. The woman was acting as if this was planned! And as if Elizabeth’s value was nothing more than breeding stock! Jane and Charles flushed in embarrassment for the other two. Lydia let out an obnoxious giggle and Mary studiously tended to the food on her plate.

“Mamma!” Elizabeth implored. “We didn’t plan this!”

Mrs. Bennet continued as if Elizabeth hadn’t spoken. “Do not worry Mr. Darcy. My Lizzy is very strong. She will give you a good healthy child, more if that is your wish. She takes after me in that way you know.” Not wanting to neglect Charles, she added. “All the women in my family are very fertile. You have no cause for concern Charles, even though you have chosen the more tradition route.”

Elizabeth rolled her eyes and was too busy shrinking in her seat to notice Jane’s reaction. If crawling under the table were an option, she would have done that. The day could not end soon enough! Why couldn’t her mother simply talk about them getting married, and be horrified that her daughter was pregnant and unmarried like any normal mother? Her only consolation was her mother was getting it out of her system now and not at the restaurant - at least that is what she prayed.

Darcy was about to say something when another idea struck Mrs. Bennet. “Oh!” she exclaimed. “Do not concern yourself Mr. Darcy, I’m sure my Lizzy can produce a boy for you. Mr. Bennet had no preference, and I would simply not know what to do with a boy.”

“Mrs. Bennet.” Darcy interrupted, seeing Mrs. Bennet taking a breath in preparation for another declaration. “My only concern is for the health of Elizabeth and the baby. I do not care if it is a girl or a boy.”

To Darcy’s shock, Mrs. Bennet waved him off. “You are too kind sir. But you do not have to pretend in front of us. I know all men of your status wish for a son.” Moving on to another topic, Mrs. Bennet asked. “When should we plan the engagement party then?”

“Mamma!” Elizabeth exclaimed. “William and I are not engaged!”

Mrs. Bennet patted her daughter’s hand again. “Of course not dear. Mr. Darcy is waiting to ensure you will carry the child full term.” Then looking pointedly at Mr. Darcy said, “Now after the first trimester there is very little concern for any mishaps. So perhaps a July party?”

Darcy struggled to find his voice. When he did he said firmly. “Mrs. Bennet. I appreciate your enthusiasm, but an engagement party in the midst of wedding preparations I fear would be far to taxing for you. And I would like to relay the news to my family before planning such an event.”

Before Mrs. Bennet could say anything more Elizabeth stood. “I need some fresh air.”

Elizabeth stalked out of the house, with Darcy close behind her. As soon as she was outdoors, she took a deep breath and then let out a loud frustrated groan.

Darcy took her hand and pressed a kiss to the back of it. “That went well.” He said mockingly, causing Elizabeth to laugh.

“I’m so sorry William! I should have spared you that.”

Darcy laughed. “At least she didn’t call for your father’s shotgun.”

They walked to the barn and took the horses out on short ride around the farm. The cool breeze took with it Elizabeth’s frustration and mortification of her mother’s antics and she felt her usual playful self return.

Darcy rode quietly beside her. The farm was very different from Pemberley. Unlike the vast walking paths and numerous gardens which existed simply for enjoyment, nearly every inch of the Bennet farm served some purpose - whether it was a field for growing hay, or the chicken coups, or the corn fields, or the barn and horse corals. And there was a friendliness to it Darcy enjoyed. He could imagine Elizabeth growing up here, free to do as she pleased. He imagined a young girl in jeans and t-shirt running through the fields and jumping her horse over the fences. Then he had an image that nearly took his breath away; the image of their son running amongst the chickens, playing in Elizabeth’s tree house, and riding a horse as he and Elizabeth looked on.

“You know we really should talk about it.” Darcy said suddenly.

“About what?” Elizabeth asked innocently, fairly certain of what he was referring to.

“Marriage.” Darcy said, reining his horse into a complete stop. Elizabeth pulled up beside him. With an impertinent glint, she said, “You’re actually buying all that stuff my mother said?”

Darcy chuckled. “Not at all, but hasn’t the thought crossed your mind?”

Elizabeth took a deep breath. “On occasion.” She owned demurely. “But let’s not talk about it now. There is too much going on.” Knowing Darcy knew full well what she meant.

Darcy sighed and prodded his horse into a slow gait and watched as Elizabeth followed suit. “We won’t talk about it now, but we need to talk about it soon.” The left corner of Elizabeth’s mouth went up. “Afraid I’m going to run off and let your child be raised by a band of gypsies?”

Darcy laughed. “Somehow I wouldn’t be all that surprised...” His demeanor turned more serious. “I’m concerned about what happens when the press finds out about it.”

Elizabeth replied cheekily, “I had no intention of telling them about it.”

Maintaining a serious tone, he said. “You won’t need to. They’ll see us buying baby furniture, and maternity clothes, and baby clothes, and eventually you won’t be able to hide it anymore.” Darcy could not help the smirk that crossed his lips as he pictured her with a fully swollen belly. He added with chagrin, “And then they will be merciless.”

Elizabeth shrugged. “I don’t care what they say.”

Darcy sighed audibly. He knew she was being obtuse about the subject and for no good reason. “Elizabeth. They will accuse you of having illicit affairs, they will claim the child is not mine, they will run your name through the dirt and anyone associated with you. A picture with any other man, and suddenly he will become the father - including Richard!” Elizabeth flinched at that as he expected. He had mentioned Richard’s name intentionally to drive the point home. He continued. “And that is just you. Me, they will call me playboy who wantonly leaves women pregnant to pursue other interests. Bastard children will emerge from the wood work from any number of employees. Before they are done with me, I will be an abusive lover that refuses to pay child support for my many illegitimate children.”

Elizabeth leveled dark gaze at Darcy. “So you think we should get engaged to avoid some slanderous speculation for people who obviously have nothing to do than read that trash?”

Darcy schooled his features to hide his true feelings. “Marriage would be ideal, but an engagement would definitely cut down on the speculation.” He said noncommittally. “And if I recall, one of your best friends ‘reads that trash’.”

Elizabeth became incensed at the reference to Charlotte. “Don’t you have an entire department that is supposed to moderate things like this?”

Darcy bit back, “All they can do is issue is a statement confirming I am the father. That won’t stop speculation.”

Elizabeth looked at him with a steely stare. “And to think I thought you were the type to marry for love. I will not repeat the mistakes of my parents, nor will I marry you simply to save either of us from a few speculatively indulgent articles.” With that, she prodded her horse into a hard gallop, one much harder than Darcy thought safe - especially considering her condition.

Darcy started after her in dismay. He followed her at a fair distance, knowing she needed some time alone, but was not willing to leave her in case she hurt herself. He had envisioned that discussion going quite differently, and had even hoped to find himself engaged by the end of it. He knew the timing was bad and for that he chastised himself. Hadn’t he just agreed two minutes ago not to discuss it now? Then again, they were running out of time if they were going to be married before the baby was born.

He cursed Wickham and wished for the whole matter to be over with. He would have paid him ten million dollars to have this over and done with! There was so much he and Elizabeth needed to talk about and dealing with Wickham had put everything on hold. He wondered if Wickham truly understood the extent of damage he had inflicted and then huffed loudly realizing the man probably didn’t care or worse, would enjoy hearing about it.

Sometime later, Darcy arrived in the barn where Elizabeth was cooling down her horse and putting away the riding equipment. He was determined to make peace with her.

As she was exiting the stall, he stopped in front of her and grabbed her hand. He pulled a small velvet pouch out of his pocket and emptied the contents of the bag into his hand. Gently but firmly he said, “I love you Elizabeth. And whenever you are ready, I would love nothing more than to put this on your finger. I think sooner would be better, but that is all I’m going to say about it for now.”

Elizabeth looked down at the ground, suddenly feeling guilty. She knew she had misconstrued the meaning of his statements - and had done it intentionally. The truth of the matter was she didn’t like feeling obligated into marriage or an engagement. Despite being a fairly pragmatic person, when it came to love and marriage, she wanted the fairy tale - though she would loathe admitting that to anyone. Regardless of her feelings, after the last month, she really was not ready to think about marriage. She was still trying to her life back to normal, much less start a new life with someone else. Feeling somewhat humbled and remorseful though, she looked up at Darcy and placed loving kiss on his lips. She wasn’t ready to say yes, but needed to tell him she wasn’t rejecting him either. She curled his fingers around the ring and said. “It’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when.” Looking down at the closed hand she said, “It’s just too much right now.”

Darcy put the ring back into the velvet bag and nodded. “When” he said quietly to himself.

George Wickham paced the cubical of a room he occupied deep in thought. The room was nothing more than a stove, a microwave and a bed, all cramped into a 10 x 10 room.

His earlier encounter had not gone well. He had asked for more time, and had been granted a short reprieve, but not without a substantial penalty. He brushed those thoughts aside. With the money he was about to extract from Darcy the penalty would be nothing. The question was how to get the money, and then leave the country without Darcy following him? George preferred to work alone, he rarely trusted anyone else, and since he planned on skipping the country immediately, working with another was nigh impossible. He could have the money wired, but Darcy would certainly have it traced. He needed the money in cash but he couldn’t be there for the pickup.

Having come up with a plan he settled on the bed grinning. It was a fairly simply plan, but that is what made it all the more genius. And even if he didn’t get all the money right away, it would be enough for him to get away and sustain him for a while.

Finding a piece of paper, he carefully penned a note. His note complete, he set out to make the necessary arrangements.

The remainder of Mother’s Day went well. Mrs. Bennet loved the special attention she received and dinner went off fabulously. Charles and Jane were kind enough to take Lydia, Mrs. Bennet, and Mary in their vehicle. This arrangement had several positive effects. First, Darcy and Elizabeth could update Mr. Bennet on the situation with Wickham. Second, Mr. Bennet appreciated the absence of Mrs. Bennet’s enthusiasm, and third, Mr. Bennet’s appreciation for both gentlemen grew knowing they had carefully arranged such quiet for him.

Dinner was resplendent and Mrs. Bennet could not wait to get home and crow to her friends and sister.

Pleased, but exhausted, the other four made their way back to Chicago.

Darcy’s vehicle was quiet for a while; each passenger mulling over the events of the day.

“Elizabeth, what did you mean earlier today about repeating the mistakes of your parents?” Darcy asked, breaking the silence.

Elizabeth shifted, but didn’t even bother to open their eyes. “Isn’t it obvious?” She asked.

“Not really.” Darcy said.

Elizabeth shifted again, making herself comfortable against Darcy. In a half sleepy voice she said. “My parents married young because my mother was pregnant with Jane. It’s no secret to anyone in the family they have not shared a bedroom in years and most of us are pretty sure Lydia was a drunken accident. My mother stays because she has no place better to go; my father allows her to because he feels honor bound to let her and because she lets him escape to the basement most of the time.”

Darcy said nothing in response and quietly considered what Elizabeth had said for a while. He was amazed at how unemotionally she had said it. It was simply a fact. There was no resentment, no trying to hide anything, nothing to cover up. It was what it was. How different they handled things than his family!

One thing was clear though, Elizabeth would not marry him until she was convinced theirs was a lasting love. Duty, honor, monetary gains, and reputation - none of that mattered when it came to marriage. With a better understanding of the obstacles he would have to overcome to get Elizabeth to marry him he started to formulate a plan, and it started with a deep loving kiss.

The Thursday after Mother’s Day, Darcy finally received the note from Wickham he had been waiting for.

Darcy,

10 black standard duffel bags. Divide the money evenly between each of them.

Enclosed is a list of addresses, locker numbers and combination keys.

Place one bag in each locker.

You have three days.

- GW

Chapter Fifteen: Counter-Intelligence

Posted on Tuesday, 26 June 2007

Thursday evening Elizabeth arrived at Darcy’s place ten minutes before the requested time. His email was rather cryptic but without sufficient reason to do otherwise, she complied. She was a little annoyed that he hadn’t been there to greet her, but then again, she was early. She fixed herself a cup of peppermint tea, settled into the rocking chair Darcy had given her for Mother’s Day, and closed her eyes for a few minutes while her tea cooled.

Twenty minutes later, Darcy found her asleep with an untouched luke-warm cup of tea next to her. The light of the setting sun streaming in through patio doors made her already glowing countenance a vision created in heaven. Darcy’s heart-ached knowing he had to disturb her, and worse, disturb her with news of Wickham. A quick glance at his watch told him he had about an hour until the others arrived.

After staring at her in open admiration for several minutes, he leaned over placed a feather-light kiss on her lips. When she stirred, he kissed her again, this time more deeply. Without opening her eyes, she brought her arms around his neck responding ardently to his kisses. It was all the prompting he needed. He pulled her out of the chair, and up into his arms, only momentarily breaking their connection to ensure her safety in his arms.

Whether it was the way he kissed her or held her so firmly with his entire being, Elizabeth knew Darcy needed her in a way that went beyond physical desires; his entire being needed hers. She didn’t ask him, and didn’t have to see it in his eyes, she simply knew and was going to give him anything he needed. She brooked no protest when he carried her into his bedroom, nor when he undressed her. She didn’t assist him, only submitted to him, moving only when he needed her to. And as he removed his clothing, she gazed at him adoringly from her nest of pillows. He loved her and she responded in kind; it was the first time they had been together since the business with Wickham had begun. It was exactly what they both needed, though perhaps for different reasons.

They lay together for a while after, enjoying the level of intimacy that had eluded them for so many weeks, before Darcy informed Elizabeth they had guests arriving. As they dressed, Darcy explained the note he received from Wickham and the ‘guests’ were actually a security team who were going to help devise and execute the money drop. Despite Darcy’s protest, Elizabeth insisted on being part of the discussion – it was after all her life and the life of their child that was being threatened she reasoned. After Darcy relented, Elizabeth decided she wanted to talk about something else. She was well aware that Wickham would consume much of their conversation for the next few days, if not week.

“William?” Elizabeth said rather nonchalantly as she waited for the shower to warm.

“Hmmm?” Darcy said, obviously thinking about all that needed to be accomplished.

Elizabeth pulled on her lip for a moment, not sure how to approach the topic. “Can you um… can you not wear that cologne anymore?”

Darcy turned a quizzical expression. “We’ve been together over six months and you’re just telling me now you don’t like my cologne?”

Elizabeth chuckled bashfully. “I used to like it… It’s just that now it makes you smell like… a fermenting beer still.”

Darcy raised his eyebrows in enlightenment. “That good huh?”

Elizabeth shrugged sheepishly. “Of course love.” Darcy said stepping into the shower. “Anything else?”

Elizabeth bit her lower lip. “Deodorant?” she squeaked, pointing to a stick of unscented deodorant.

“And I suppose the soap I use is next?” He added sarcastically holding a bar of soap in his hand. At the shake of her head he asked again sarcastically. “Anything else?”

Elizabeth stuck out her tongue and said cheekily. “Find me a man who doesn’t complain about the side effects of knocking up his girlfriend?”

Darcy let out a guttural chuckle. “Well maybe I wouldn’t complain if you actually looked knocked up.”

To this, Elizabeth flushed the toilet and ran away giggling, at his loud complaint.

By the appointed time, Darcy’s apartment had been overrun with security equipment and several people. Some Elizabeth recognized: Richard, Darcy’s head of security, and the chief of police. There were several others as well. The personal investigators Darcy had hired, a TSA Managers from Midway and O’Hare airports, (Transportation Security Administration), another friend of Richard’s from the army and several others introduced as security team members.

The group discussed the high-level details of the plan over dinner. Despite Darcy’s objections, Elizabeth insisted that Georgiana should at least be privy to a plan that so greatly affected her safety. Reminding Darcy she was not a little girl and did not need to be sheltered was a monumental task, and she was grateful for Richard’s support in the matter. So it was decided that Georgiana was included in the dinner as well.

After hearing the plan, the first thing that caught Elizabeth’s attention was the expense at implementing such a plan. While there were always reminders of Darcy’s wealth, the planes, his gifts, his apartments, the furnishings, and the house keepers, she almost felt humiliated that he would go to such expense for her foolishness. She could not absolve herself for her part in this predicament - after all, had she not been so friendly and agreed to meet Wickham while he was in Chicago, this may not have happened. This caused her mood for most of the evening to be rather melancholy.

After dinner was cleared, a detailed map of Chicago was rolled out. Elizabeth frowned looking at the map, and her mood deepened. The map was already marked with X’s indicating the drop locations. It was evident that the planning had been under way for a while and this meeting was not a strategy meeting; it was an implementation meeting. She swallowed her annoyance knowing full well that they would continue whether she approved or not. She gleaned as much information as possible from the many conversations going on.

Throughout the evening, Darcy’s attention to Elizabeth had never wavered. He watched her carefully for signs of distress, and was prepared to eject her from the planning at the smallest hint. By around ten that night, her mood was so dower, Darcy believed her to be tired and overwhelmed, and based on how quickly she was consuming the ginger ale, nauseous too.

“Sweetheart, do you want to go bed? There’s still a few more hours of work to be done.” He whispered quietly to her.

Elizabeth wanted to protest, but in the end knew she should not. She had a lot to do tomorrow since the plan would require her to again miss work for a few days. Instead, she let out a soft resigned sigh and nodded. Darcy walked her to the bedroom, giving them a few moments alone.

“Are you alright my sweet?” He asked, his face full of concern.

Elizabeth was too tired to disguise all her feelings. “A little overwhelmed and frustrated…” She leaned her forehead against chest and swallowed the tears of guilt and frustration that were forming in her throat. “I just want this to be over.” She whispered.

Darcy heaved a heavy sigh. The day had taken its toll on him as well. He felt torn between his responsibilities to the company and his family. His family of course was most important, but he could not help his mind from continuously listing everything at work that required his attention and trying to find the time to fit it into his schedule.

So, on top of an almost overwhelming fear for Elizabeth, the baby, and Georgiana, laid a layer of guilt. “It will be over soon love.”

When he felt Elizabeth nod, he asked. “Is your stomach upset?”

Elizabeth nodded again. “Just the usual.” She said softly. “At least I’ve been keeping half my food down lately.” A tired smile touched the corner of her lips.

Darcy nodded. “I’ll come to bed as soon as I can.”

They had worked through every detail of the plan more than once. Each person knew their responsibilities, when to do, what, and by whom. It was a simple plan – follow the money but don’t let it leave Chicago.

The team had gone home and Darcy invited Richard for a quick brandy before retiring.

“Will it work?” Darcy asked stretching his tired neck muscles.

Richard nodded knowing his cousin needed reassurance. Confidently he said, “You’ve got a good team and the plan is simple enough to execute with very little depending on timing. We’ve got our primary and backups in planned. The biggest wild card is airport security, but even that has a backup.”

Darcy took a slow deep audible breath and swirled the contents of his glass in a steady rhythm. “Thanks.” He evaluated Richard for a moment and then said. “I want you with Elizabeth and Gina.”

Richard furrowed his brow. He took a sip of brandy. “And who is going to be here with you?”

“The team commander and my head of security.” Explaining further he said, “I’m not so worried about Wickham finding them or something like that – I have enough security with them for that. I’m worried about one of them cracking under the stress.”

Posed ready to consume the contents of his glass, Richard asked. “Liz still that fragile?”

Darcy closed his eyes tight. Even now he could still see her the night she heard about the robbery, listless and unresponsive. It tore him up knowing he could be driving her to that point again. “I don’t know.” He swallowed hard attempting to remove the sharp pain that entered his chest. He spoke in a low strangled voice, struggling to keep his emotions. “If something happens to her or the baby though…”

Richard held up his hand. He didn’t need his cousin to continue. “Let’s sleep on it. With what the PI’s told us tonight, you’re in a lot more danger than they will be.”

“Only if they don’t get their money.” Darcy replied darkly. He took a sip of from his glass.

Richard gulped down the last of his brandy. To the curiosity of his cousin, he let out a soft chuckle and shook his head slowly. His expression was met by Darcy’s raised eyebrows. With a hearty chuckle he said, “Less than a year ago we were toasting our bachelorhood. Now you are completely besotted with a woman I consider a sister, and have a child on the way!”

Darcy chuckled and even had the grace to blush. Yes. The year had been a year of changes. Good changes. And the year was not over yet. Later this year his child would be born, and he and Elizabeth would be married. PMB’s stock price would be up and nothing bad would touch them. At least that is what he hoped.

Suddenly they were both startled by a high pitched scream. “No! William!”

They both bolted towards the bedrooms. They were met in the hallway by a frantic Elizabeth dressed in an oversized Green Bay Packers football jersey. She had run into Darcy, knocking him back a step or two.

Darcy immediately took Elizabeth by the shoulders. “Elizabeth, what’s wrong?” he asked frantically. He could still see the sweat beaded on her forehead and her cheeks were flush and wet with tears.

Elizabeth threw her arms around Darcy’s neck and started sobbing. “He… he shot you… you… you… were dead… and ….”

Darcy cut her off and hugged her tight. Consolingly he said, “It was a dream sweetheart. It was just a nightmare. I’m here, and very much alive.”

Elizabeth didn’t move and he could feel her body racking with sobs. He buried his face in her hair to hide a few of his own tears that had fallen. He had the answer to Richard’s question earlier that night. Yes. She was still mentally very fragile. Without so much as a glance backward to Richard, he picked Elizabeth up and took her back to bed.

Richard stood in the hall watching until the two disappeared behind Darcy’s bedroom door. He turned, and with a nod, sent Georgiana back to bed, retiring to his own bedroom. As readied himself for slumber, he realized what needed to be done; now he just had to convince Darcy he was right.

The following morning Elizabeth rose and dressed for work after spending a goodly amount of time in the bathroom divesting the remnants of last night’s dinner. She was a fright. Her eyes were still read and puffy and dark shadows graced her lower eyelids. A hot shower, some toast and juice, and then to the office for a shortened day. Those were her immediately goals. After the dream last night she decided to focus on short term goals rather than let her mind wander to the numerous what-if scenarios that had certainly induced last night’s nightmare.

Unfortunately, artifacts from last night’s planning activities served to break her previous resolution. The black duffle bags and other electronic equipment strewn around the living room served as ominous reminders of what was yet to come. She felt tears prick her eyes as memories of last night’s dream came to the forefront of her mind. She stared at the black duffle bags aligned against the foot of the sofa. Her safety, and that of Georgiana’s had been reduced to the contents of a few duffle bags.

“It will all work out,” came from a voice behind her that was accompanied by a pair of warm arms.

“I know.” Elizabeth replied, trying to sound upbeat and confident. In a meeker tone she added, “I would feel better if you were coming with us though.”

Darcy only tightened his embrace. After several minutes of holding each other, Darcy whispered, “Come home early. I want to be with you before things get underway.” Elizabeth nodded.

Friday afternoon Elizabeth arrived home early as planned. The doors to the apartment opened to the sounds of a heated conversation.

“You know why!” she heard. It was undoubtedly Darcy’s voice.

“And I’ve been executing these types of plans for years!” Richard yelled back.

“It is my wife and child we’re talking about!” Darcy bit back.

Elizabeth was momentarily stunned at being referred to as his wife, but brushed that aside for further contemplation. Boldly, she stepped into the room containing the voices, drawing both men’s attention. “Enough!” She said in her harshest executive tone. She stared down one, and then the other. “First, this yelling is not helping Gina, nor me. Second, there is nothing either of you can do if Wickham gives us the slip.”

The two men stared at Elizabeth in stunned silence so she continued to tell them what she had decided earlier that day. “William, I need to know you are safe or I will continue having nightmares like last night. I want you with me. And Gina needs moral support as well, which can only come from her brother and Richard.” She had intentionally not used Richard’s pet name – knowing the use of his Christian name would drive home the seriousness of her statement. She continued. “You’ve done your part, now let the team you’ve hired do their job – unless you don’t have faith in their abilities.” The last part was said with an air of impertinence, fully knowing the effect it would have on both men. The two had always had complete faith in those they appointed under them, and had rarely been disappointed. Suggestion of anything else bordered on heresy. In a hard tone, she added, “And if you do not, I would prefer to know now so I have a full understanding of the danger to Gina and I. Otherwise I expect to see you boarding the plane with us.”

Darcy opened his mouth to protest but Elizabeth walked away before he could say anything intelligent. He looked to Richard, who only stared back at him, at a loss for words. The two men stared at each other for in silence for several minutes. Both of them wanting to continue defending their earlier position, but both of them knowing Elizabeth had effectively diffused the argument.

Richard began chuckling first, first trying to hide it behind his hand. When Darcy let out a suppressed chuckle, both burst out in a short laugh. “She’s your girlfriend.” Richard said finally, trying to maintain an indignant attitude. Darcy could only shake his head. “I guess we should go pack.”

Friday night, after touring the hotel room that would serve as the base of operations, checking and rechecking equipment and money bags, they put their plan into action.

Before dawn on Saturday, Elizabeth, Darcy, Gina, Richard, Batman and Robin, and two other bodyguards found themselves on one of Darcy’s private jets heading to New York. Darcy and Richard spoke little to each other, and even less to Elizabeth. They were not ready to voice her correctness, nor did they wan to hear her what she had to say. They didn’t need to did they? After all, didn’t their presence say enough?

The first part of the plan was simple and would occur later that morning. A three man team dropped each bag at the required location and the team of sentries gave the all clear when they were in position. There was a single sentry per drop location, watching for a pickup.

Gina was happy to be home - even if the duration would be short and even though she had been prohibited from calling James. She still did not understand Darcy and Richard’s reason for that. After all, she reasoned, he would not possibly do anything to put them in harms way. She obliged anyway.

After everyone was settled, more specifically after Elizabeth was settled and was comfortably resting, Darcy knocked softly on his sister’s door.

“I wanted to see how you were doing.” He said in way of greeting.

Gina glanced at him for a moment, pursed her lips, and then returned to the book she was reading. “As good as can be expected,” came the polite reply.

Darcy sat on the bed next to her as he used to do when she was young. He gave her shoulder a gentle consoling squeeze. “I know this incident has been wholly unsettling for you. I am sorry, but it should be over soon.”

Georgiana nodded. “I understand why things must be this way.” Again, she turned her attention to her book. When Darcy remained saying nothing she asked curtly, “Don’t you have to check on Elizabeth or something?”

Darcy furrowed his brow for a moment and then sighed audibly. Clearly there was something more wrong than just the general angst of the situation. He took the book from Georgiana’s hand. “Do you still not like Elizabeth?”

Georgiana shrugged, refusing to look at Darcy. After a moment of silence she said flippantly. “Why shouldn’t I. She’s going to make me an aunt.”

Darcy settled against the pillows and folded his hands in his lap. “I’ve been neglecting you haven’t I.” The way he said it was more of a statement than a question. Georgiana shrugged. After stewing for a few minutes she said a little meekly, “You are just more preoccupied with her. I’m just not used to it.”

Darcy gave his sister a kiss on the cheek. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to neglect you. I’ve just been very worried about her and the baby. I will make it up to you when this is all over.”

Georgiana smiled, granting her brother forgiveness. She added with a smirk. “It’s going to take a lot of shopping to make up for it.” With a mischievous smile she said, “You know we’re going to be near Rodeo Drive not so long from now.”

Darcy laid his head back against the head board and groaned audibly, causing Georgiana to giggle.

With a smile on his face, he said. “So aside from causing to me to be a woefully neglectful brother, tell me honestly what you think of Elizabeth.”

Georgiana shrugged and looked pensive. Darcy prompted her to speak her mind, and never being one who could hide anything from her brother said, “William, are you sure the baby was an accident?”

The shock on Darcy’s face was evident, and quickly turned to indignation. In a hard tone he replied, “You think Elizabeth did it on purpose for the money.” He stared at his sister, his dark eyes penetrating all her defenses.

Georgiana looked down at the bed, trying to escape her brother’s glare and rebuke. Softly she replied, “It’s a common enough way to trap someone.”

Darcy’s glare softened slightly. His sister was correct. He had many discussions regarding just that and the necessity for her to be extra cautious. After returning to a calmer demeanor he said, “If I tell you something, it must stay between us. Not even Richard must know.” Georgiana’s eyes widened in anticipation. It was not often her brother told her his secrets, especially ones Richard could not know about. “Elizabeth is not after my money. If she was after my money, we would be engaged if not married already.” He let out a small resigned sigh. Seeing his sister’s questioning look he added. “I have already brought up the subject of marriage and have shown her the engagement ring.” Looking down at the bed he muttered, “She has refused thus far.”

Georgiana’s jaw went slack and she stared at her brother, her mouth agape. “She refused to marry you? Even though she’s carrying your child?” Darcy shook his head. “Refuse is too harsh a term. She said she wasn’t ready to get married, that we both needed more time to make sure it was the right thing to do.”

Georgiana’s eyes widened with incredulity. “She refused the Darcy fortune?”

Darcy’s smiled slightly. “She did. And I dare say she is perhaps the only woman I know who would.” He added with a slight chuckle. “Had it been Caroline Bingley, I would have been at the altar within five minutes of the proposal.”

Georgiana laughed. “Is Caroline really that bad? I know she dotes on you, but she is rich enough, she doesn’t need the Darcy fortune.”

Darcy smiled wryly. “Caroline has been trying to get her claws into me since her brother first introduced us. There is no such thing as ‘too rich’ for Caroline.”

Georgiana furrowed her eyebrows in thought. Her and Caroline got a long alright. She wasn’t her favorite person, but they had some things in common. But she had never seen Caroline as a fortune hunter. Perhaps my brother has misjudged her. I will test her when I see her again. If she is, I will not let her near William!

Darcy let his sister contemplate all what he had told her for several minutes. He sat patiently waiting to answer any questions. When none came, he asked, “So now what do you think of Elizabeth?”

Georgiana smiled meekly, looking up at her brother with just her eyes. “Perhaps I have misjudged her.” After another moment she said, “She is nice enough. I will like her well enough as a sister. But we do not share many common interests.”

Darcy nodded, slightly relieved. It was important to him that Georgiana accept Elizabeth, since apparently his aunt and uncle would not. “Do you like her enough to say… go shopping for the nursery with her?”

Georgiana struggled to hide her smile, but Darcy could see the very corners of her mouth turn upward, and a rare dimple appeared. “Can we get anything we want?”

Darcy thought a moment. Giving Georgiana free reign could be costly. “How about anything Elizabeth wants.”

Georgiana huffed. “But she is too… too… pragmatic about things. She will buy the poor kid only the most basic clothes - nothing designer, even if it is adorable.”

Darcy laughed. “You may pick out ONE gift for the baby - of your choosing.” With that, he kissed his sister on the cheek again, pleased to see her in better spirits, and turned to leave the room. He was stopped by Georgiana voice.

“Is Elizabeth and the baby going to be okay?” She asked in genuine concern.

Darcy smiled at the genuine sentiment. “I think so. She is sleeping…” Adding teasingly, “But doing as well as can be expected.” He dogged the flying pillow by ducking out of the bedroom before it hit the door.

Sunday at six in the morning, the four once again jumped on a plane, after receiving confirmation none of the bags were picked up. They headed to San Francisco where they would remain until the all clear was given to return to Chicago.

Elizabeth was looking forward to this part of the trip. It would be anxious, but she let the fond memories of her and Darcy’s last visit comfort her on the flight over. They would not have the same freedom or privacy they had then, but she was certain they would be able to enjoy a number of things.

Sunday was a day of high anxiety. This was day they expected Wickham to appear to collect the ransom. In many ways, it was a good day for Wickham. Sunday was a slow day traffic day that would give Wickham the ability to move around town with little effort. There would be no rush hours to contend with or no large events.

The four spent the day at the flat, trying to distract each other with different activities. Pool, conversation, work from the office, books, reading, or music. No activity lasted long though.

Sunday around three in the afternoon they received confirmation that a bag was picked up, but not by Wickham. It had been picked up by two men in suits. The men would be followed and their identity confirmed. This pick up was not unexpected. In fact, it was a little relieving, as it demonstrated the intelligence provided the PI’s had proven accurate thus far. The question was how many money bags did Wickham owe them?

A short time later, it was reported Wickham had picked up two bags and the first two tails were on him. Oddly however, Wickham did not make any attempt to leave the city that night, nor did he pick up any other bag.

Sunday night came and went without any other sign from Wickham. According to the tail, he had apparently locked himself up in a small room for the night. Perhaps the man was smarter than he looked. He was waiting to see if he had been followed and for any aftermath.

By late Sunday night, the tension in the San Francisco flat was thick. Little was actually said but volumes were spoken in mere looks and gestures. While the plan had not quite gone awry, slow retrieval of the money bags had not been considered. Nonetheless, there was nothing to do but wait.

Darcy and Elizabeth sat in the solitude of their room. Night was the only time they would allow themselves to shut out the tension and anxiety of reality – and even then it did not last long. While they each possessed vivid imaginations, they were far too grounded in reality to ever truly escape it.

Even so, it was during their hiding they began a tradition that would carry them through many months. Elizabeth lay with her back against Darcy’s chest. Lovingly he was rubbed lotion on Elizabeth stomach as recommended by the baby books. Without the impediment of clothing, her stomach currently sported a small bump – visual evidence of the child growing inside her. This time quickly became a special time that Darcy truly enjoyed indulging; this was his special time to bond with his child.

“Strawberries.” Elizabeth said seeming from no where.

“Excuse me?” Darcy asked, pausing briefly in his ministrations.

“I want strawberries.” Elizabeth said petulantly.

Darcy chuckled. “My sweet. It is nearly midnight. We are not going out to get strawberries.”

Elizabeth pouted. “They’re for your son…” She whined.

“Then let this be his first lesson in patience.” Darcy chuckled.

Elizabeth continued to pout until she realized Darcy was not going to relent. Giving in, she turned on her side and sighed contentedly against him. “Thank you for coming William.”

Darcy kissed the top of her hair. “I had little choice. You were quite clear in your declaration.” He felt Elizabeth nestle further into him and could swear he saw a smug grin on her face. He lazily traced her arms and then her back with his fingers. After several minutes of content silence he asked, “Do you still have nightmares?”

Elizabeth hesitated and locked her fingers with his. “Yes.” In an attempt to mollify his concern she added, “But not every night, and they are not as bad as that one.” She inclined her head to look at him with a grin. “And you are usually nearby to comfort me.”

Darcy scrunched up his brow. “I don’t recall you waking me ever with nightmares.”

Elizabeth looked up at him and cheekily replied, “That is because you sleep like the dead.”

Darcy let out a small chuckle that did not reflect his thoughts. His thoughts were much darker. His beautiful Elizabeth had suffered so much in the last month and there was so little he could do. Not only that, the joy they should be experiencing over their coming child had taken a back seat – clouded over concerns for its very health. He felt like such a failure. This was certainly not the way to start being a father or a husband! It was no wonder Elizabeth wasn’t ready to marry him! Despite all his money, here they were, hiding like two scared rabbits. Well, comfortable rabbits, but hiding nonetheless. Things will change as soon as we return home, he vowed.

He felt the steady breath of Elizabeth on his arm and knew she was asleep. Carefully repositioning her onto the pillows, he then nestled into the bed next to her and promptly fell asleep.

Monday morning and the report Wickham was once again out and about was received. Little by little his actions were reported. As they had done Sunday, Darcy and Richard took turns manning communications. When an update was received, it was quickly shared with the other three. Activities and conversations were always put on hold until the news was relayed. By the mid-morning, the activities of the day began to revolve around the pattern in which news was received, about once an hour.

By two in the afternoon that day however, they received the report they had been waiting for – Wickham had been arrested at the Chicago’s O’Hare airport. He had picked up two additional bags, for a total of five.

The Darcy flat was a mixture of emotions as days of tension were released. There was some jubilation, some relief, and a little anxiety of what was yet to come. At least three of them understood an arrest was always the goal, but it didn’t mean that he would remain in custody and there was always the trial. But for now, the four rejoiced in the removal of the immediate threat.

Late afternoon Monday the four went down the wharf. Cabin fever was starting to set in and a celebratory dinner was in order. Darcy, dressed in jeans and rubber soled loafers - much to the amusement and surprise of Richard and Georgiana - lead the four to the area him and Elizabeth had visited previously. They visited the farmer’s market, and walked around on the rocks, visited the marina and the docks.

Tuesday was almost a leisure day. Wickham was in custody and everyone felt they could at least breathe. The plan was to stay in San Francisco another day or two to make sure any potential accomplices wouldn’t attempt something rash. The tails had been given instructions to pick up any remaining bags and return them to the hotel.

Richard and Darcy took Georgiana to downtown San Francisco. Elizabeth had of course been invited as well, but claimed her stomach was upset and she had work to do and would therefore not make very good company. Darcy offered to stay with her, but she insisted he spend time with his sister. Whether she was privy to Darcy’s and Georgiana’s previous conversation or simply wanted some time to herself, no one was certain except Elizabeth, and she wasn’t giving any hints.

Georgiana was silently very pleased with the arrangements. She was used to be the center of attention with Richard and Darcy. Since Elizabeth though, she couldn’t remember time with her brother that hadn’t included Elizabeth. She enjoyed spending the day with the two most important men in her life, letting them spoil her. Things seemed to be as they should be once again.

The four returned to Chicago Wednesday. Georgiana was scheduled to fly back to New York the following day for a few weeks to finish up finals. She would return to Chicago for the summer after that.

Once again, it appeared that things could return to normal, though Elizabeth and Georgiana would continue sporting bodyguards for a little longer.

Thursday Elizabeth and Darcy returned to work, picking up where they had left off, with plans to meet with the security team on Saturday to go over findings and determine the next steps.

Friday evening Elizabeth showed up at Darcy’s with a bag of groceries. She had run to the farmer’s market earlier that day and was going to prepare a romantic home cooked meal for just the two of them - complete with candles and flowers. It would be the first evening they would have together alone since Wickham had disrupted their lives. While they both new the ordeal wasn’t over, the looming threat for now seemed to have disappeared. Their lives could get back to normal once again and they could begin to focus on the new life they were bringing into the world.

Elizabeth rubbed her growing stomach with a smile. A romantic dinner for two! With a giggle she realized they should enjoy the time while they had it.

Her computer was slung over one shoulder, her arms carrying a bag of groceries, filled so high she could barely see over the top. At that moment she was thankful Darcy’s apartment didn’t require keys.

She entered the apartment, headed directly to the kitchen and placed the bag onto the counter.

“It certainly hasn’t taken you long to make yourself at home!” came a stern feminine voice. Elizabeth turned to the voice, and stared in disbelief.

Chapter Sixteen: Family

With a gentle touch on his arm and a meaningful look, Elizabeth waved off her bodyguard who took up a protective stance slightly in front of her, his eyes slightly narrowed and body poised for action. She slid her computer bag off her shoulder, placing on the floor near the entrance of the kitchen. Taking a deep breath, she entered the living room to face Darcy’s aunt. In these precious few moments of silence, she wondered if Darcy knew his aunt was here, and if so, why he didn’t tell her. Her second thought was to wonder how soon Darcy would be home, hoping it would be soon. She ignored the woman’s initial remark as best she could. “Mrs. Fitzwilliam.” She greeted with cool politeness. “William is still at the office. Would you like me to call him and inform him you are here?”

Margaret eyed Elizabeth carefully from head to toe. Her eyes were narrowed slightly and her lips pursed tight, and her posture rigid. “Is it true? You don’t appear to be with child.”

Elizabeth smiled tightly, “It is. I’m nearly three months.” She looked down at her stomach. Why did it seem so big to her and not to anyone else? Granted she wore loose clothes intentionally to hide the fact, but was not at all certain of her success until now. Turning her attention back to the intruder, she wondered who had told Darcy’s aunt the big news. She knew Darcy had not, he had told her as much earlier; that only left either Richard or Georgiana. She was willing to bet it was Georgiana. She stifled a sarcastic chuckle - the girl certainly didn’t waste any time.

“And you are certain it is my nephew’s?” Margaret asked. “Are you willing to submit to a paternity test?”

Elizabeth was shocked at the accusation. She had never given anyone cause to believe she was a loose girl - but of course his aunt would think the worst of her, everyone in William’s family did. Trying to maintain some semblance of familial peace, she squared her shoulders and clenched her jaw momentarily. “I am one hundred percent certain William is the child’s father.”

Margaret took a few calculated steps closer to Elizabeth, eyeing her entire body again. “I will give you $100,000 plus expenses to terminate this fiasco. William need never know of our arrangement.”

The woman’s offer hit Elizabeth as a physical blow. She took a step back trying to catch her breath and blinked a few times in disbelief. Unsure of how to respond, she opened her mouth once, and closed it again silently. Finally finding her tongue, she said icily, “Considering William already knows about the child, he would certainly ask questions if I was suddenly no longer pregnant.”

Margaret sniffed. “But you will not be around to provide answers.”

Elizabeth’s eyes widened as the full meaning of the offer struck her. She was not only to terminate the pregnancy, but also her relationship with Darcy! Incensed she spat back, “My child and I are not for sale!”

Margaret raised her chin haughtily. “Every person has a price. $500,000.”

Elizabeth glared at the older woman. Through clenched teeth she said, “Perhaps this discussion should wait until your nephew is here. It is after all his child as well.”

Margaret met her glare with one of her own. “It is your choice. He will get over it soon enough.”

Elizabeth drew a deep breath and with perfect calm said, “I will not now, nor ever, terminate this pregnancy simply to satisfy you. And out of respect for your relationship with him, I will pretend this conversation did not occur.” She turned back to the kitchen furious, though refused to give the woman satisfaction of see it. She glanced at the clock hoping Darcy would show up. Unfortunately, based on their earlier discussions he would not be leaving the office for probably another twenty minutes, which would mean another forty minutes before he was home.

Margaret followed Elizabeth into the kitchen, standing officiously in the entry, watching Elizabeth unpack the groceries. She spat out, “I should have known you pull a stunt like this. Getting yourself pregnant so you can force him to marry you? It’s the oldest trick in the book. Do not think for a moment you have won. We have ways of dealing with your kind.”

Elizabeth paused and turned to face the elder woman. “Our child is not now nor ever will be a game piece. And not that it is any of your business, but I have already told William I don’t expect him to marry me.”

This seemed to anger Mrs. Fitzwilliam even more. Her face became flush. “You are to leave William alone! Name your price!”

Tired of the conversation Elizabeth returned to putting away groceries though her eyes were hot and narrow and her voice icy. “Perhaps you have mistaken my earlier declaration Mrs. Fitzwilliam. I can not be bought. If you have a problem with your nephew’s conduct, I suggest you speak with him. Now, if you will excuse me, I have listened to enough of your insults and will listen to no more.”

Elizabeth picked up her computer and gently moving his aunt out of her way, left the apartment for her own.

At the office Darcy listened to a full account of the happenings with Wickham.

Wickham had been arrested at the airport as he was attempting to get through security with the bags of money. Little did he know the security team had intentionally put explosive residue along the zipper of the bag and hidden suspicious wiring in the seam of very bag in hopes to flag the bag for further inspection. The planted wiring had served its purpose, and when the bag was tested positive for explosives, Wickham was immediately arrested. Admittedly, this tactic was excessive, but it ensured Wickham would remain incarcerated during the investigation and was at the mercy of investigators and attorneys. This made conditions ideal for negotiations.

During the ‘investigation’, Wickham was continually interrogated, not only about the explosives, but also about the assault and extortion attempt. He had held his ground through many rounds, even when the district attorney, with the assistance of Darcy’s attorney, threatened to implicate the loan shark Wickham was involved with in the extortion conspiracy, calling their bluff. However, when photographic evidence was provided that supported the loan shark’s involvement, Wickham sang like a canary. He was greedy, and willing to resort to a number of lowly tactics to get what he wanted, but he would not risk his life.

Nothing Wickham had told them had surprised Darcy except the information about the picture of Georgiana. Before speaking with Georgiana, he wanted to talk to Richard. He did not believe Georgiana was in danger, but the news was not pleasing either.

Happy with how things proceeded, Darcy headed home. He was looking forward to telling Elizabeth Wickham would be spending the next eight to fifteen years in prison. While Darcy personally did not think that was sufficient punishment, he would have at least eight years to figure out how to deal with Wickham when he was released.

Perhaps now the two of them could put most of this ugliness behind them and begin enjoying life again.

Darcy arrived home to an empty apartment. Expecting to see Elizabeth, he searched her room, and then his. When he found the apartment completely empty, he began to panic. He checked the voice mail, finding only a message from Richard inviting him to dinner with his parents tomorrow night. Not having received any messages from her, he frantically dialed Elizabeth’s cell phone.

“Hi William.” Elizabeth answered in a dull voice. She was thankful he could not see her now. The interview with his aunt had shaken her and she had barely made it to her apartment before tears started overflowing. She was certain her eyes would be red and puffy, and her hair a disaster.

“Elizabeth!” Darcy almost shouted, relieved to hear her voice. “Are you alright?”

Elizabeth took a deep silent breath. That interminable protective side of him was coming out again. “I’m fine. I’m at my place.”

Darcy let out an audible sigh of relief. “Are you feeling alright? I thought we were going to have dinner together.”

Elizabeth closed her eyes. Right now she just wanted to be left alone. There was no way she could tell Darcy what his aunt had said, and apparently she had left his place after her. The confrontation with his aunt had left her physically and emotionally drained. She didn’t want to talk about it, and she certainly didn’t want to talk about Wickham - the other topic she was certain would come up. Feeling slightly guilty for breaking their date, she said, “I’m sorry William. I’m just not up for dinner.”

“Sweetheart, you’re not ill are you? If you prefer, I can come over there.”

Trying her best to sound fine, she replied. “I’m fine William, just a little worn out. There’s no need to come over here, I’m just going to rest. I’ll call you tomorrow.”

Darcy hesitated for a moment trying to determine if he should believe her and whether or not he was going to go over there anyway. Deciding she probably did need some time to regenerate, he conceded. “If you’re certain you’re alright.”

Elizabeth rolled her eyes at his obsessive concern. She had managed to live over thirty years without him. “I’m fine.” She said definitively.

“Alright. Sleep well and call me if you need anything. I’ll see you tomorrow.” Just before Elizabeth could hang up, he added, “Oh! Richard called. His parents are in town and want to have dinner with us tomorrow night. Love ya.” He hung before Elizabeth could say anything. “They want to have dinner with you… not me.” She said into the phone anyway.

The following morning, Elizabeth woke early. She was still feeling the effects of the last night, then again, it could be just morning sickness and hormones. All she knew was she dreading seeing anyone today, including Darcy. She wanted nothing more than to spend a quiet day alone.

While she truly loved Darcy and was more than excited about the baby, she couldn’t ignore the obvious rift it was causing between him and his family, save Richard, and she wasn’t sure how to deal with it. The last thing she wanted was to put Darcy in the position of having to choose to between them and her, knowing he would he choose his family, and not wanting the burden of guilt if by some miracle he chose her.

Suddenly she remembered Darcy’s last words to her last night - dinner with the Fitzwilliam’s tonight. Rubbing her face in frustration and tiredness, she decided to go back to sleep. Maybe the answer would come to her in her sleep - or maybe she would wake up again and it would all just be a dream. Either way, sleep sounded like a good idea.

Around ten in the morning, Darcy let himself into her apartment and was greeted by Batman. Pleased to see she was well protected he made his way to her room.

Elizabeth was curled up on the bed, wrapped around her large stuffed platypus. He couldn’t stop his lips from forming the smirk they always did when he saw the stuffed animal. The plush animal was a gift from her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. They had brought it back with them from a trip to Australia knowing it was Elizabeth’s favorite animal. He was a little concerned because she usually only cuddled with it when she was distressed. She had told him long ago it was like an adult security blanket. Hoping it was just fatigue, he took a seat on the edge of the bed and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

Elizabeth was startled and screamed, violently trying to push him away.

“Elizabeth!” Darcy said firmly in an attempt to bring her to her senses.

She stopped flailing, recognizing the voice. She turned to look at him and swallowed, attempting to slow her breathing and keep her heart from leaping out of her chest. “What are you doing here!” she cried, releasing her anxiety.

Darcy sat back down on the bed and took her in his arms. “I’m sorry sweetheart. I didn’t mean to scare you. I came over to see you.” He felt Elizabeth slowly relax in his arms.

“Don’t do that!” she chastised against his chest. Slowly her breathing and heart rate returned to normal.

Darcy kissed the top of her head. “I’m sorry. I will remember not to frighten you like that.” Inside he cringed, wondering if she would ever be the same again. While Wickham was as safely behind bars, she obviously still did not feel safe. It was just over a month since the initial attack, and Darcy prayed that she was still wary due to the recent constant reminders and that she would be able to put all behind her soon. Jail is not enough for the rat! Wickham living in constant fear… That would be justice!

The two soon made their way to the kitchen for some breakfast. They were sitting comfortably in the living room, Darcy with coffee, Elizabeth with apple juice when Darcy brought up dinner with the Fitzwilliams.

“I would rather not go to dinner William.” Elizabeth said.

Darcy sighed. “I know they aren’t your favorite people, but we can’t avoid them forever and it will be a good time to tell them about the baby.”

There’s an understatement! Elizabeth suppressed the urge to roll her eyes, but her hand instinctively went to her stomach. Clearly, he knew nothing of her last encounter with his aunt. She searched for a way to tell him they knew about it, without divulging the details of yesterday. Teasingly she said, “I’m sure Gina or Richard has told them by now.”

Darcy’s brow furrowed for a minute. “Hmm… Richard wouldn’t have told them, but Gina might have.”

“I’m certain she would want to tell her aunt about her little adventure, wouldn’t she?” Elizabeth suggested.

Darcy nodded. “But that doesn’t mean she told them about the baby. Besides, even if they know about it, I would like them to share in our happiness!”

Elizabeth said nothing. Indeed! Share in our happiness. Happiness over the child they consider a disgrace and abomination to their name. Dinner tonight with that group was the last thing she needed. “William, you can go, but I’m really not up to tonight. I’m irritable, I’m tired, I have nothing to wear and I need to get ready for my trip next week.”

“Trip?” Darcy asked surprised.

Elizabeth nodded. “I need to head out to the plants. I haven’t been there in six weeks and need to make sure the change in ownership goes smoothly. I’ll only be gone two days and Batman is coming with, unless I don’t need him anymore.”

Darcy shook his head, realizing they were getting off topic and not entirely convinced it wasn’t intentional. “Take Batman, we’ll talk about his necessity when you return. But don’t change the subject.”

Elizabeth couldn’t help roll her eyes. The diversion, even though unintentional didn’t work. “William, please. I really am not up to it tonight. It was a trying week and I really just want some solitude.”

Darcy heaved a sigh. He could not ignore the earnestness in her voice and had to admit, even he didn’t want to attend the dinner tonight. They were supposed to be at Pemberly this weekend but had postponed the trip because of general fatigue. Realizing the week was probably harder for her than it was for him, he conceded. “Alright, I’ll inform them you were not feeling well.” He added with feigned sheepishness, “So does solitude involve not seeing me either?”

Elizabeth chuckled and the first genuine smile of the morning graced her face. “Not as long as you let me get some rest.”

That evening Darcy arrived at Manuel’s, an upscale restaurant on the outskirts of the city, for dinner with the Fitzwilliam family. Richard was waiting for him just inside the doors.

“Where’s Liz?” Richard asked, looking around for the missing person.

Darcy smiled a tight smile and followed his cousin as they headed towards the table. “She wasn’t feeling well.”

Richard smirked and said in a low voice, “You mean she wasn’t up to seeing the family.”

Darcy nodded and Richard shook his head in commiseration. “I don’t blame her. My parents seem to be in a particularly boorish mood. All I heard about last night was how it was time for me to settle down.”

“Why are they here?”

Richard shrugged and then stopped just before entering the main dining room. A light touch on the arm indicated he needed to tell Darcy something. “You should know they invited Sylvia.” Darcy clenched his jaw momentarily and released his indignation with a hot breath. “I see.” He said tonelessly. “Thank you for the warning.”

The two then proceeded to the table with small insincere smiles. “Aunt, uncle. It’s nice to see you,” Darcy greeted with a nod. He looked down acknowledging the person who would be sitting on his left. “Sylvia. I hope you are doing well.”

Sylvia shifted slightly in her seat. “William.” She said softly in embarrassment. “I’m doing well.” She looked down at the table in front of her. “I’m sorry to intrude. I accepted Margaret’s invitation before I knew this was just a family dinner.”

Darcy shook his head and turned an icy glare at his aunt. “It’s quite alright. As you see, it’s not quite a family dinner, my other cousin and his wife are not here, and neither is Georgiana or Elizabeth.”

He heard Richard choke on his water at the inclusion of Elizabeth and gallantly slapped him on his back as he took his seat. He saw his uncle look down at the empty place setting in front of him in amusement, but his aunt was clearly angry.

“When will Georgiana be in town?” Margaret asked, pretending Elizabeth didn’t exist and he hadn’t mentioned her.

“I believe she will arrive in two weeks and stay for the summer.” Darcy took a sip of water. “What brings you to town uncle?”

Darcy’s uncle looked to his aunt for a moment and then said, “Just a visit... we wanted…” Margaret interrupted waving dismissively at her husband. “Oh, let’s just get to it and perhaps we can have a pleasant dinner. We came because we wanted to make sure you didn’t fall into that little trap of Miss Bennet’s.” With a light snort she added, “Imagine thinking she could trap you by getting pregnant. The nerve!”

Richard couldn’t help the spray of wine that left his mouth, and Sylvia choked on hers.

Darcy was ever grateful he was only about to sip his at that moment and was able to set down it down fairly composed. He threw a questioning glare at Richard who vehemently shook his head. Composed and steadfast, he looked first to his aunt and then his uncle. “I was hoping to give you the good news myself with Elizabeth, but apparently someone has already taken that upon herself.” Fairly certain it was Georgiana, he made a mental note to discuss it with her. Continuing, he said, “Elizabeth and I told a select few about our child out of necessity but we were not ready to make it public knowledge.” He took a deep calming breath, knowing if he didn’t he would raise his voice above an acceptable level. “But I assure you, I couldn’t be happier about the news and it is my fervent hope that Elizabeth will agree to marry me soon.” He took a fortifying drink of his wine.

Margaret sat up straight in her chair and leaned against table towards Darcy. “You can not be serious about this woman William!” She spat out angrily. In a more composed tone she said a bit dismissively, “But don’t worry, we will help you dispose of this country chit and her child. She says she can’t be bought, but every person has their price. We’ll just need a little more time to find hers.”

Darcy’s face blanched. His aunt looked pleased with herself which only fueled Darcy’s desire to shake the woman. A glance at his uncle told him he would not say anything, and quite possibly didn’t know anything about it either. Slowly and evenly he asked, “What do you mean she says she can’t be bought? You spoke to her about this?”

Margaret chuckled dismissively. “Of course I did. Yesterday. I needed to confirm that she was sticking to her story.”

Had Darcy looked at Richard, he would have seen his cousin’s eyes narrow and his jaw tense. As it was, Darcy was too preoccupied trying to maintain his own composure. Between clenched teeth he seethed, “Her story? And exactly what did you offer, aunt!”

Margaret sat up straight and raised her chin haughtily. “Calm down William. You too Richard. I am merely looking out for you William. You and Georgiana. And it doesn’t matter what I offered, the fool didn’t accept it.” She paused a moment and then nodded to herself. “Yes, I should have remembered she’s the executive type and would hold out for a better deal.” Looking at Sylvia, who appeared to be struggling for breath and was completely ashen she said almost patronizingly, “Don’t worry my dear. We’ll have this little fiasco cleared up in no time and then things can go back to the way they should be.”

Darcy glared penetratingly at his aunt, and then his uncle. “Uncle,” he bit out. “What was the offer?”

Darcy uncle waved dismissively. “I wasn’t there. You know your aunt handles all those types of things. But William, she was only looking for yours and Gina’s best interest. If you insist on having this girl though, so be it.”

Darcy was a bit stunned by his uncle’s seeming sudden resignation to Elizabeth as his girlfriend. However, a glance at his aunt – now livid from her husband’s statement – brought him back to his question. Darcy turned his harsh stare back to his aunt. “I’m waiting for an answer.” He said in a low dangerous voice.

Margaret rolled her eyes. “$500,000 to leave you alone and terminate the fiasco.”

Darcy struggled for breath. He couldn’t believe his aunt had actually offered money to have Elizabeth terminate the pregnancy. It was one thing to pay her not to see Darcy again, but termination was quite another! Softly but dangerously, and in disbelief he asked, “You asked her to kill our child? Was I not allowed to have a say in the fate of my own child?”

Margaret huffed not understanding why Darcy, and apparently now her husband, was being so obtuse. “It probably isn’t even yours!”

Darcy stood abruptly. “How dare you!” He hissed. Loudly, much louder than propriety deemed acceptable, he said, “How dare you insult Elizabeth, and how dare you interfere with my personal affairs!” Angrily, he threw down his napkin and left the table.

Richard stood and glared at both his parents. He shook his head too angry for words and followed Darcy out. When he caught up with Darcy, Darcy was angrily pacing in the front of the restaurant waiting for his car. His ire had made him almost oblivious the steady rain that was now forming droplets of water on his jacket.

Richard took his arm and led him under the awning. Darcy shrugged off Richard’s hand and said hotly, “You can offer no defense for them this time Richard.”

Richard put a calming hand on Darcy’s shoulder. “None is offered. As you said, none can be.”

Darcy nodded once in acceptance of Richard’s unspoken words. After a moment’s thought he asked accusingly, “Why did you not tell me they knew? Certainly they said something to you since yesterday!”

Richard drew himself up and said evenly, “I knew nothing. They know better than to speak to me of such matters.”

Darcy scoffed. “A privilege for being their son, not just a nephew.” He waved a hand dismissing Richard’s coming retort. Pacing again, he silently chastised himself. No wonder she didn’t want to come tonight! I should have known something was wrong!

Darcy’s car pulled up and he absently took the keys from the valet. He had to double back and fumble through his wallet to give the young boy a tip. This action was usually performed with such grace the valet himself was surprised to find a tip in his hand.

Richard noticing Darcy’s uncharacteristic behavior walked to the front of the car. “Darcy, let me drive, you’re in no condition.”

Darcy glared at his cousin. Upon seeing the valet out of the corner of his eye and recalling his recent fumbling, he realized his cousin was right. He was too preoccupied to drive. He had to figure out how to apologize to Elizabeth; first for his aunt’s behavior, and second, for once again failing to protect her. With clear irritation, he threw his cousin the keys and walked to the passenger side. He sat down angrily and slammed the passenger side door closed with much more force than necessary.

“Your place or Liz’s?” Richard asked, trying to sound a little more upbeat. Darcy wiped the rain from his face and then rubbed his temples with his fingers. He desperately wanted to see Elizabeth but was still far too angry. He was angry at just about everyone - his aunt, his uncle, Georgiana, himself, and even Elizabeth. He couldn’t believe she had withheld his aunt’s visit from him.

“Elizabeth’s.” He replied with a calming deep breath, followed by a few more.

It was about twenty minutes before Richard pulled up in front of Elizabeth’s apartment complex. With a look he asked if he should stick around. Darcy shook his head and opened the car door. “I’ll drop the car off at the garage, and I’m staying at your place tonight.”

“Thanks. I’ll call you tomorrow.” Darcy nodded with a tight smile. “I need to talk to you about something anyway.”

Elizabeth sat outstretched on a bench amongst the rooftop gardens of her apartment complex. The rain had been falling steadily for about the last hour.

When the rain started, she sat on her balcony thinking about Darcy and contemptuously wondered how dinner was going. With a heavy sigh, she pushed out the angry thoughts and watched and listened to the rain fall. It was mesmerizing. She sat for some time, hoping the monotonous sound would sooth her, but it did not. She was antsy and couldn’t shake the agitated spirits.

She walked to the rooftop, Batman in tow, hoping the feel of rain on her face and skin would help wash away the troubles of her soul. She sat outstretched on a bench, letting her head fall back. She smiled, enjoying the feel of each rain drop as it hit her face, and rolled off her skin, taking with it part of her inner turmoil. She sat there for several minutes, and when that wasn’t enough she sat there for several more minutes – but there was still more to wash away. So much guilt, fear, pain, anger, and love was all battling within her. She wanted it to leave, all of it, even the love.

The love she shared with Darcy was wonderful, and there was nothing more peaceful when it was just the two of them. But it was never be just the two of them and that love when mixed with outside forces was complicated. Their love had complicated things as she knew it would, as she had hoped it wouldn’t. She had tried to avoid love for specifically that reason, and was success for over six years.

For six years, she had lived a simple but fulfilling life. And now, so little of that life still existed. She hadn’t been to a club since Christmas, she hadn’t done any work at VA Hospital in over a month, and her company had been bought by another and her career dreams that seemed so close had vanished.

Since William, her simple, uncomplicated life had come crashing down around her and what surrounded her now were threats against her life, a family that despised her for no other reason than deigning to breath the same air as them, and an incredibly complicated work environment.

She was tired. Tired of trying to feel safe; tired of trying to make peace when others didn’t want to; tired of trying to convince others of her worth.

Darcy walked slowly to Elizabeth’s apartment, taking the last few moments to compose himself and ensure his anger would be rightly directed at his aunt and himself. Richard had rambled the entire way home. Normally, he hated the way Richard rambled about nothing to avoid uncomfortable silences, but this time it had a calming effect and he was rather grateful for it.

Reaching Elizabeth’s apartment, he took one last deep breath and then let himself in. Fairly certain she had intended on staying home that night, he was surprised to find the place empty. Thinking perhaps she had decided to surprise him and was at his house, he called her cell phone. When he heard it ringing in the apartment, and found it on the kitchen counter he began to panic. Elizabeth always had her cell phone with her.

Willing himself to stay calm, he called Batman and was relieved to hear Elizabeth was safe and on the roof. He snorted softly, realizing the effect Wickham had on him had also not faded, and he wasn’t the one who was threatened. Time. It would be better with time.

“Elizabeth!” Darcy reproached, his neck scrunched up, as if it would help him avoid the rain. “Sweetheart, you shouldn’t be in the rain, you’re going to get sick.”

Elizabeth turned and looked him and then resumed her previous position.

Darcy wiped the rain from his face. Standing over her now, he said, “I know about my aunt’s conversation with you. Why didn’t you tell me?”

Pulling her head up to look at him she said, “It’s not as though you didn’t know already your aunt dislikes me. That conversation was no different.”

Darcy let out a rapid breath of indignation. “Elizabeth, she tried to bribe you into killing our baby. That’s very different!”

Beginning to feel the effects of the rain, he took her hand. “Come inside so can talk about this.”

Elizabeth looked down at her soaked clothing that was clinging to her body and didn’t move. Despondent, she said, “There is nothing to talk about William. Your family will always despise me. I don’t really care. Figure out an acceptable arrangement with the baby and things can go back to the way they were.”

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