Beginning, Previous Section, Section III
Jump to new as of February 26, 2001
Jump to new as of February 28, 2001
Jump to new as of March 10, 2001
Part 15
William sent an email to Liz that afternoon, and resisted the temptation to check for replies every half-hour. He'd kept his writing in the same style as her own, open and friendly, with no heavy overtones. He fully appreciated that this was his opportunity to really get to know her, and he wasn't about to stuff things up by coming over too strongly, or as too intense.
The next morning he was pleased to find a reply, but was disappointed that it was only quick hello and acknowledgement of his correspondence. She'd protested lack of time, but promised a proper reply soon. His disappointment intensified into a concern over the next couple of days, as he heard no more from her. He admitted to himself that the nature of their parting, and the time that had passed since then, meant he had no security at all regarding their relationship. It was obvious that he was back to square one.
It was with a real sense of relief that he found his second letter from Liz in their mail, postmarked the same day as her email. As Georgie had some friends over, he grabbed himself a coffee, and retired to his room to read the letter in privacy. His opening of the envelope revealed sheets from a lecture pad, which were covered loosely with her open and feminine hand.
Dear William,Loved hearing from you. Sorry I didn't have time for a longer reply this morning, but I had an 8.30 lecture. Who ever, may I ask, thought it might be a good idea to put lectures on at such an unearthly hour? We're only three weeks into the semester and already this class is practically empty. Can you imagine how empty it will be when the enthusiasm for the new year wears off.
You know that the real problem with under-attended lectures is that you can't get away with falling asleep in a back corner, so rather than sleep I use this as an opportunity to catch up with my letter writing. (Yes, I'm in class now.) The lecturer loves me because he thinks I always show appropriate interest by taking copious amounts of notes. If only he knew...
Next time you're lecturing, you should take the time to look around and wonder how many of those students, who you always thought were so diligent, are actually writing home.
Well, how's it going getting back into the swing of things at uni? You're not finding all the first year girls too distracting are you? I spent most of orientation week as a peer advisor, and one thing that stood out to me was how many of the girls chose groups and courses according to the 'cuteness' of the lecturer or tutor, rather than any interest in the subject matter. I've just had a vision of your classes over-flowing with nubile and enthusiastic young women. It'd be just like at the beginning of 'The Raiders of the Lost Ark'. I'm finding great amusement in such a picture.
I suppose Chaz has told you that it's likely Janie will be moving into your area soon. She's been told, off the record, that she was the recommended candidate for a teaching position in a small school up there. It just has to get the official stamp of approval on it now. I've really missed her since the end of the break. Her parent's place, where she's staying at the moment, is an hour and a half's drive away, and I haven't seen her for two weeks. I'll miss her even more when she moves up your way.
It's an odd feeling. I've lived in my unit for four years now, but I feel like a stranger here without the others. It's so bad that on occasions I even find myself thinking of Lydia with longing. I'm starting to get a bit more used to it though. Maria's beginning to open up a little more, but I'm finding the age difference between 18 and 23 wider than I could have ever imagined. I sometimes feel more like an Aunt than a flat-mate. Oddly enough I feel more at home with the guys. I didn't know how that would work out, but it's okay. I've been friends with Jordan for years now, and I thought I knew him very well, but sharing a flat gives one more insights into a person, than you might necessarily want.
Richard's proving a bit of a charmer. I think he's finally clued to the fact that Jordan and I are not an 'item', and he's become a little cheeky with it - when he's actually at home that is. He seems to be out with a different girl every other night.
I'm away from the unit far less than I'm used to, as I've been able to quit the waitressing job I've had for the last few years, in favour of a tutoring position at a local 'homework centre'. I must say that it's a very agreeable change. The hours are wonderful, but the best of it is the feeling that you're doing something worthwhile
Any way, I'd better sign off now. The lecturer is actually talking about something I'm interested in..
Looking forward to hearing from you again.
Love Liz
X
From this point on, the correspondence continued regularly, William's usually via email, Liz's more often than not, hand-written during class. It was funny how this little fact sometimes gave William pangs of insecurity when he was lecturing himself, and a lot of his students seemed to be taking notes.
When Liz did email, it was most likely to just be a short observation about something that had amused her, or caught her attention.
It had not gone unnoticed by Anne that William had failed to maintain contact with Liz, and though she'd been disappointed with this development (or lack thereof) she'd left the matter for William himself to resolve.
It hadn't taken her long to discover they'd re-established contact either. Anne didn't miss much.
"Oh William, you found your graduation pen. I'm so glad," she said to him as he hung up the phone after scribbling a message down for Georgie. "Where was it?"
"In Liz's handbag."
"Boy, do you realise how lucky you are to see that again. I watched Liz on a few occasions as she tried to find something in there. It's like a blackhole - I'd hazard a guess that most things that end up in her bag never see the light of day again."
William just laughed, and Anne said nothing more about it, but she walked away smiling, understanding the reason for William's much improved humour over the last few days.
"So, what is it with this girl?" George asked Anne not long afterwards. "She seems to have put some kind of a charm on you all. I was only away for a few weeks, but I feel like I'm really out of the loop here. I suppose if she looks anything like Chaz's new girlfriend, I can understand some of William's pre-occupation, but that doesn't really account for you and Georgie."
"Janie certainly is a lovely girl George," Anne laughed, "and you'll find she has a lot of substance to her, but she's very different to Elizabeth. Liz is lively and vivacious, very quick on the uptake and has a cynical little sense of humour. She's a bright girl, and it's hard not to be drawn to her."
"Sounds like another woman I know," George replied, giving his wife a kiss.
Rather than easing over time, the frequency of their correspondence actually increased. William looked forward to hearing from Liz, as if her letters were a 'fix', and any time that the interval between letters was longer than usual, he felt restless.
Liz wrote casually, as though she were speaking, and William found their subjects of discussion ranged widely. They wandered through religion and politics, music &novels, ideas for their respective theses, work, study, movies T.V. , family and friends...
The only subject that there seemed to be an embargo on was their relationship. Never was any mention made of feelings one might have for the other, no 'sweet nothings', no endearments, no declarations and no promises.
Despite this, neither of them could deny their growing affection and ever increasing regard for the other. Strong feelings however, create vulnerability, and vulnerability can lead to insecurity. If each had been in a position to actually see the one another, to be able to look into the other's eyes, or read the body language, they would have no doubt been able to discern the other's affection more accurately. As it was though, neither was confident enough to be completely assured of the nature of the other's feelings.
The main thing in Liz's letters that gave William a nagging doubt, were her references to Jordan, and the number of thing they did together. Rather than dwell on this, he wanted to ask Janie about Jordan, but was unsure of how to bring the matter up without appearing exposed or jealous. He couldn't believe his good fortune when Chaz actually brought up the subject one evening, when he and Janie were again at the Darcy household for dinner.
Janie had been talking to Anne about a letter she'd received from Liz that afternoon, when Chaz interrupted.
"She seems to do a lot with that bloke - what's his name? Are you sure they're not involved?"
It was as though the Darcys collectively held their breath while waiting for an answer, but Chaz continued to eat, oblivious to the tension that he had just caused at the table.
"Jordan Knightley," Janie laughed. "Yes I'm positive they're not involved. Well not in the way you're implying anyway. He's her safe guy."
"What do you mean 'safe guy'?" Georgie asked.
It occurred to William that she was a very useful little sister.
"Well," Janie explained, "They're good mates, but nothing more. Jordan is totally smitten by a girl from his hometown, but he tells us that he's still waiting for her to grow up a bit. He and Liz kind of use each other as dates if they want to get other people off their backs. It's was only when Jordan wasn't being used as an excuse, that I knew she was really interested in dating someone."
Darcy disliked Jordan less after this conversation, but he still couldn't quite quell the twinges of jealousy he felt when seeing Jordan's name in print.
Occasionally, if Liz wanted to discuss something more immediate, she would abandon the use of email or letters, and phone William. It was on these occasions that William knew, without a doubt, that his feelings were much stronger than those of friendship. Talking to her always left him with a longing to see her, and touch her. Somehow the phone just accentuated the distance between them.
One evening, after his father had been chatting on the phone for about 5 minutes, George informed William with a smile, that it was actually Liz calling for him.
William shut the door behind him as he took the phone into his room for privacy.
"So... what were you talking to my dad about?" William asked Liz in amusement. "Is there anyone in my family that you don't feel it necessary to establish a long distance relationship with?"
"That's the first time I've spoken to him," Liz laughed. "It would have seemed a little rude not introduce myself and to at least have had a bit of chat with him... He inquired about my prospects, and asked about what kind of intentions I have toward you."
"You did realise he was joking, didn't you?"
"Well, I hope he was - because I told him that I thought my prospects would be pretty good once the lawyers secured my release from the asylum, and that my intentions toward you were purely for that of scientific study... He seemed quite satisfied with my answers."
"Well, I'm glad to hear that, and to what do I owe the pleasure of this call?"
"I just wanted to know your reaction to Chaz and Janie's news," Liz told him.
"Are you telling me they're engaged?"
"You haven't heard from them then?"
"No, but Mum was on the phone to Aunt Rebecca for a few hours this evening. It's probable he tried to call and couldn't get through. I'll have to check the message bank. You do mean they're engaged?"
"Oh, I should have left it for Chaz to tell you. I'm sorry, I'm just all excited about it and wanted to talk to someone who knows them both."
"Well, I can't say I'm particularly surprised," William laughed. "The more I got to know Janie, the more inevitable it seemed to be. They are just so well suited to each other. You don't realise how lucky you are to be miles away. We have to watch them together, and quite frankly their open affection is so sappy it's a bit sickening."
"Well I suppose I'll get to see for myself at the wedding," Liz grinned. She was pleased that William sounded so happy about it. It was good to get a positive opinion from someone on the scene, whose judgement she trusted.
"So have they set the date?"
"Two months time," Liz answered.
"Two months?" Darcy exclaimed. "Now that's quick! She's not pregnant is she?"
"Uh! What a conclusion to jump to!" Liz laughed. "You obviously don't know Janie as well as you think you do. No, she's not pregnant."
"Oh sorry," Darcy replied, grateful that his candid outburst hadn't offended Liz at all. "That two month time frame's just taken me by surprise."
"Well, once you've decided that the other person is right for you, and that you're really ready to commit - why waste time?"
"Why indeed?" answered Darcy.
Part 16
As soon as Liz rang off, Darcy dialled message bank and found not one, but three, messages from Chaz, telling him to ring back. William could tell from his friend's voice that he was on a bit of a high and he smiled as he pressed Chaz's number into the phone. It only rang once before it was answered.
"Well, it's about time Darce," Chaz said as soon as he picked up the phone, not even waiting for William to identify himself.
"That could have proved a little embarrassing if it hadn't been me," William commented.
"Who else would be ringing at 10 to 10 at night?"
"I could have been your beloved fiancée ringing to wish you pleasant dreams."
"Well, I considered that as unlikely, because she's sitting right beside me at the moment... So you've obviously been on the phone to Liz, she's the only person we've told so far."
"That I have. She was pretty excited."
"Nothing compared to my ecstasy I dare say," Chaz laughed. "I feel like the luckiest man alive."
"You have to say that while she's sitting beside you," Darcy quipped "but I think this time there's a lot of truth in the statement. You are a very fortunate man, I don't think you could have chosen better."
"It's good to hear you say that," Chaz replied. "You will be my best man?"
"With pleasure," William answered, not only pleased to stand up for Bingley, but also a little occupied by the thought that Liz would most likely be maid of honour. "Give Janie my love and congratulations will you?"
"Sure thing Darce. Have you told your family yet?"
"No, and I'd better do so now. They'll be cross at me if I don't let then know straight away. I'll catch up with you tomorrow, okay."
"No problem, bye".
William's gratification at his friend happiness, was greatly enhanced by assurances of seeing Elizabeth soon. He had no doubt that she'd be up before the wedding to help Janie out, as well as for the wedding itself.
It had been some months ago, that he'd abandoned all his 'rational' thoughts about how a relationship would interfere with his work and study too much. A long-distance relationship with Liz now appeared far preferable to no relationship at all, and romance towered high above friendship, as that of the relationship of choice. All he wanted now was the opportunity to get their romance back on track. There was no more talking to himself of 'infatuation', because he was very much aware that the right term was 'love', he was totally and utterly in love with Elizabeth Bennet.
In checking the mail the following afternoon, William was a little disappointed there was no letter from Liz (even though he'd only spoken to her the night before) then he noticed that there was a letter for him, postmarked at the postal centre of Liz's university. It was odd because the address was typed, and he wondered why Liz would do that.
His mum, who was in the kitchen when William opened his envelope, turned to him with curiosity as he burst out laughing.
"Oh Mum, you are never going to believe this," he said, handing his mother the sheet of paper that was causing him so much amazement.
Anne sat down, shaking her head as she read the communication.
"That's unbelievable," she said. "How long ago did you apply for that job?"
"About eight months... The wheels of bureaucracy certainly turn slowly. It was so long ago that I'm not even sure that this is exactly the same position that I applied for."
"Well, there's only one way to find out. There's a contact number here."
William took the letter back from his mother and left to make the call. Anne resisted the temptation to eaves drop as she waited impatiently for her son to finish on the phone.
"Well...?" she asked as he returned to the kitchen about 20 minutes later.
"I spoke to the Department Head, and it is the same job. It's a newly created position, which they'd hoped to have active by the beginning of this semester, but then the funding was delayed for some reason or other, and they had to put it on hold. They've now had confirmation that the position has been given the green light. It's a full lectureship, not just an associate one."
"What did he say about your chances, given that you haven't yet finished your Ph.D.?"
"Well, apparently that was the reason I didn't receive an interview when I originally applied, as they were really looking for someone with a doctorate. It now seems that the top runners for the job have since accepted positions at other institutions, and they don't have time to re-advertise the position because they want to fill it straight away. I get the impression that the funding will go elsewhere if they don't have it ready to roll before second semester begins."
"So they're pretty keen?"
"Yes, but I can't say it's particularly flattering to be considered more out of mere desperation than for my talents."
"If you get the position they'd very soon learn to appreciate you talents," Anne reassured him.
"My first instinct would normally have been to decline the interview. I mean it seems a little like poor form to consider resigning half way through the academic year, but given the circumstances..."
"Given that you'd be close to Liz?" Anne asked.
""Yes... given that I'd be close to Liz, it's an extremely tempting proposition." William candidly admitted to his mother. "They'd like it if I could fly down on Monday for an interview."
"You could fly down a little earlier and spend a few days with Liz."
"No, she was going to her Dad's for the weekend. She told me last night. Bad timing really. I might ring and try to catch her now before she goes, " he said as he left the room.
Anne could tell when he returned a minute or so later, that he hadn't had any luck.
"Left already?"
"A few hours ago. They don't expect her back until the early hours of Monday morning."
"Well, a little bit of time is better than none at all."
William wondered if this was true. What he wanted was time, quality time and enough time; time to see and touch her, time to talk and listen to her, time to observe her and to really see if he could discern her feelings for him. What if all she wanted was friendship? She hadn't seemed at all heartbroken over their parting at the end of the summer break. What if she didn't want a serious relationship? What if she was seeing someone else?
Anne looked at her son and could only guess at some of the things that were going on in his mind.
"I could be wrong William, but it was obvious that there was a real spark between the two of you when she was up here. I doubt if she'd be as easy or as frequent in her correspondence if some of those feelings weren't still there. She's a beautiful and attractive girl though; you can hardly be without competition. If you feel strongly about her I'd say the time to act is now."
"But her letters have never given me any indication in that she feels anything deeper than friendship," William sighed.
"And have you given any indication of your depth of feeling in yours...? ...I thought not, and look at the state she has you in. I'd say the trouble with you two is you're too much alike; always cautious, always proud, always over-analysing things. Now get down there and do something to secure your happiness... and hers! You're perfect for each other."
The first thing William did upon his arrival at the airport was to ring Liz again. To his immense frustration he'd missed her by less than 15 minutes. She'd already left for the campus, and he had no idea as to how he was going to locate her there?
A delay caused by a road accident, meant that his taxi dropped him at the History Faculty with only a few minutes to spare until his interview. Despite the unusual circumstances attached to this appointment, a full interview panel had been convened, and William faced five people across the table, who seemed to take their job very seriously.
The interview wasn't light by any stretch of the imagination, and William had the distinct impression that at least two of the panel members seemed to think the position was being demeaned by even considering a mere Ph.D. student as a candidate for it.
By the end of it though, William thought that he'd acquitted himself rather well, and he could see the two who had initially viewed him with such skepticism, had softened considerably.
He had been the third of four applicants to be interviewed; a fifth had been a 'no show'. He had the definite impression that he'd been the best so far, one of the panel had virtually said as much. It would all now depend on the final interview. Given the pressure of time (William was told) a decision would be made later that day, and if he rang after five he would be informed of whether or not he was the recommended candidate.
He could feel the beginnings of a headache coming on as he left the building to search out where he could get a coffee - he really needed a coffee.
It didn't take him too long to find what he was looking for and he sat himself on a table outside the small on campus café, as he pulled out his phone and dialled Liz's number again. The phone rang out without being answered.
"What to do now?" he mumbled to himself as he took his first sip of the steaming brew. He looked across the quadrangle he was seated in, and almost did the classic double take as her saw her walking his way. Time and imagination had not exaggerated her beauty. As she was still quite a distance from him, he had the time to admire her figure and grace as she moved in his direction. She had not yet discerned him, and he appreciated anew the smile he had been unable to forget, and her musical laugh that came drifting across to him. What he did not appreciate was that the laughter and smile were being directed a handsome young man that walked at her side.
He fought down a small voice, that began to tell him not to embarrass himself with futile hopes, and stood as she drew near.
"Elizabeth..."
Liz turned at her name. She thought she'd recognised the voice, but didn't quite believe it until she saw him. Perhaps if she had been prepared by a prior knowledge of his visit, she may have been able to retain a cooler exterior, but as it was, her reaction was totally spontaneous.
"William!" she exclaimed as she gave him a warm hug and light kiss, before stepping back.
William could not have been more thrilled with his reception, but he felt an emptiness on her pulling away. He wanted her back in his arms again, and her lips on his...
He brought himself down to earth as he registered she was talking to him and introducing her friend.
"...and Jordan this is William," Liz finished off.
"The William?" Jordan smiled. "I've heard only good things about you."
"And I about you," Darcy returned with a smile of his own. Liz's welcome had made him far more disposed to be charitable in his opinion of this guy. "I'm pleased to finally have the opportunity to meet you."
"So Liz, I'll assume you're not coming to the library after all?"
"You assume correctly Jordan."
"And the dance tonight? William could come as well."
Liz looked at William and read the reluctance in his eyes.
"No, I think I'll have to pike out on that one too," Liz grinned. "You'll just have to find another way to discourage your admirers."
"Huh!" Jordan laughed. "I was only going to discourage yours! It looks like I get tonight home with a good book. I'll see you both later."
Jordan disappeared around a corner leaving Darcy and Liz alone.
"What on earth are you doing here?" Liz asked.
"Well, it's a long story."
"You can tell it to me while I show you around the place," Liz smiled at him as she took his hand and led him away.
The virtually untouched coffee, that had meant so much to William only minutes before, was left forgotten on the table.
Part 17
It suddenly dawned on Liz that, in being caught up in the pleasure of seeing William after almost 5 months, she'd not exactly behaved in a circumspect manner with the familiarity of her greeting. He'd been quiet since she'd grabbed his hand, and she began to wonder if William thought she'd overstepped any bounds in doing so.
She considered letting go, but thought that might make her initial action in taking it, seem even sillier; besides - having her hand in his felt so nice. No, she'd leave it there for now, and make sure she was more cautious and casual in the future.
She wasn't to know that there was too much being thought and felt by Darcy, for him to be particularly talkative. He recollected himself upon hearing Liz addressing him, and he gave her a smile, which as well causing her heart to beat faster, set her mind a little more at ease.
"So what's this long story of yours?" Liz was asking, "and why didn't you let me know you were coming down?"
"You obviously don't appreciate how many times I've rung your flat only to be told that I've missed you, or to get no answer at all. If I had any paranoid tendencies I would've been sure you were deliberately avoiding me."
Liz smiled at this, thinking that it wouldn't hurt William to feel a little insecurity on occasion. Why should she be the only one who didn't know where things stood.
"And the reason for the visit?" she pushed.
"I'm on the run from the police and I needed somewhere to hide out," he grinned.
"Oh, that's nice," she smiled at him blandly, not about to rise to his teasing. "Is there a reward out?"
"It's good to know I can depend on your loyalty," Darcy laughed. "Actually, I've just been here for a job interview."
Liz stopped walking and looked at him in surprise.
"I didn't know you'd applied for any more positions here."
"That's because I haven't," Darcy told her.
"Boy, I think we're going to have to postpone the tour. I might need to be sitting and concentrating to get my mind around this... Have you had lunch yet?"
A few minutes later Darcy found himself at an eatery looking at a blackboard menu.
"You order at the counter," Liz explained, "and they bring it to you when it's ready."
After deciding what they wanted, Darcy went to place the order while Liz found a table. The staff wasn't particularly efficient, and while Darcy was waiting to be served, he watched in annoyance as another young man, who'd just entered the place, sat down on the chair opposite Liz.
Just what I need right now, thought Liz to herself, her expression not hiding the fact that she considered the presence of Frank as an intrusion. She'd seen the few minutes it would take William to order, as opportunity to collect herself a little and to arrange her thoughts, but instead she was faced with ridding herself of this all too smarmy, acquaintance.
How was she supposed to get her mind around her feelings for William, and try and figure out what his were toward her, with Frank sitting across the table with his 'lines' and innuendoes. She could normally put him off quite effectively, but today it seemed he did not want to take the hint.
"Do you know what I heard the other day?" he tried, after ignoring her overt comment that she was waiting for someone.
"I'm not really one for gossip," Liz coolly replied.
"I heard that Jordan has another woman, and she'll be transferring up here next semester."
"I don't have a clue what you mean by 'another' woman. I know his girlfriend Emma is transferring here if that's what you're alluding to... so?"
"So you might be interested in a real man now,"
"I might be at that," Liz answered sweetly. "Let me know if you hear of one for me. Now, if you don't mind..."
"Very funny, Elizabeth, but you won't get rid of me that easily..."
Frank paused as he saw a tall, good-looking man deliberately approaching the table.
From where William had been standing he'd was unable to see Liz's reaction to the other man, but he didn't at all like the kind of smile on this fellow's face, or the way he was looking at Elizabeth.
"Would you like to introduce your friend?" Darcy asked as he reached the table and unconsciously placed a possessive hand on Liz's shoulder, while he looked across at the man in his seat."
"William, this is Frank," Liz replied. "Frank was just leaving."
William had no idea of how much his possessive little gesture meant to Liz. The instinctive movement had told her more of Williams's feelings for her, than half an hour's reflection alone at the table could have ever given. She almost liked Frank for being such a jerk - almost.
"Hello William," Frank said as he got to his feet, a little sneer still playing on his face. "I wonder of you've met Knightley, the man Liz lives with?"
"Yes, I've had that pleasure," William replied calmly, deliberately ignoring the innuendo, "but I haven't met her other flat-mates yet."
Frank, with nowhere left to go with this, wandered off looking for another attractive girl to give his attention to.
"Creep," muttered Elizabeth.
"I certainly hope you're talking about him and not me," William grinned as he took his seat at the table.
Liz laughed. "Oh William, it is good to see you again! ...Now tell me about this interview of yours."
The next two hours were spent in easy conversation about the position William was being considered for, their families, Chaz and Janie's wedding plans, and a half dozen other sundry topics. William was finding it hard to believe, but Liz's company was even more delightful than he remembered. He was again entranced by her liveliness, by her ability to find humour in the most absurd of situations, by the cheekiness of her smile and the intelligent brightness of her eyes. He was at a total loss to understand how he could have let their friendship slip in the first place, and why, once it had been re-established, it had taken him so long to get down to see her.
A few hours in her company was more than he needed to confirm his feelings toward her, and that he'd be a fool to let her go. Now all that he had to do was to secure her affections for himself. He had a flight leaving at 6.45 the following morning, so that gave him about 15 hours in which to operate; well -realistically a lot less, if you took into consideration that she'd probably need to sleep.
It might be do-able, he thought to himself. There's been a decent ground work already laid.
He knew he'd have to somehow work this differently to last summer. She may have reason to doubt his sincerity if he just tried to charm her, but he did not want to leave until there was at least some kind of an understanding between them. If he left his play too long he'd be chancing someone else moving in. To have the luxury of time might have been nice, but it would not be worth the risk.
"You still have more than an hour until you can ring for the decision," Liz said, looking at her watch. "Would you like that tour now?"
It took William a moment to register that she was talking about the results of his interview. It had completely slipped his mind.
"I'd love it," he said standing and holding his hand out to Liz, pleased that he'd be able to touch her again. The only difficulty he'd had during their recent conversation was that the table had separated them.
Distracted as he was by this awareness of Elizabeth, at the end of the grand tour William thought that he'd be doing well to remember any of the campus's highlights or geography. He let out a slight sigh as they sat down in a quiet courtyard off the Library.
"Are you nervous about whether you got the job?" Elizabeth asked, unable to miss his pre-occupation. "You'll know in less than 15 minutes, one way or the other."
William wasn't sure he wanted to tell Liz his anxiety was not over the position, but over the thought that he might stuff things up with her.
He looked up and on seeing the concern in her eyes, smiled at her reassuringly. One of those runaway curls had escaped again and he was unable to resist tucking it behind her ear as he'd done a number of times last summer, before withdrawing his hand a little self-consciously. It was too much like last summer. How was he to show Liz that he wanted this to be more.
Liz held his gaze as he looked at her, as if wondering what he should do next, then slid a soft hand up to his cheek. Her touch was exquisite, and he covered her hand with his own before turning slightly so that he could place a kiss upon her palm.
Unable to resist any longer, William's other hand moved to the base of Liz's neck, and his fingers entangled themselves in her hair. He pulled her toward himself, and his lips took hers as he'd wanted to take them for most of the afternoon. The kiss expressed the ardour and frustration that had built in William over the last few hours, or should that really be, the last few months?
He let go of her hand and Liz felt his arm come around her waist, drawing her even closer to him. She acknowledged a small pang of concern as she hoped that this meant more than last time they'd shared such an embrace. It at least meant much more to her, and she gave in to the sheer pleasure of his touch and his passion.
As involved as they were in each other, they almost lost consciousness of the time and it was 5.15 when Liz withdrew a little and murmured something about 'ringing for the verdict'.
"Later..." Will groaned as he pulled her back to himself and silenced any protest that she may have been about to make.
Liz co-operated for a moment longer before determinedly pushing him away, and smiling at him.
"It's already 'later' William. You'd better ring now, or you'll miss them."
Darcy reluctantly let Liz go, and pulled out his mobile to learn of his fate.
"If I don't get this position, will you at least consider a transfer?" he asked, taking Liz completely by surprise.
She supposed that this answered her concerns about whether his kisses meant more than last time.
"Just ring will you," Liz grinned, "and I'll answer your question if you don't get the job. If you do get it I'll just maintain an aura of mystery."
William gave her a half smile as he dialled the number. It rang several times, and Darcy was on the edge of worrying that he had left it too late to call, before it was finally picked up.
Liz watched his face as he 'mmmm'd', 'yessed', and made almost no other comments throughout the conversation. She was unable to read his expression one way or the other.
"Well...?" she asked, as he finished the call.
"Do you have an answer to that question for me?" Darcy asked her quietly.
"Yes, I'd consider transferring," she told Darcy, truly disappointed for him that he hadn't been appointed to the position. Then she caught the beginnings of a smile and the glint in his eye. "You did get it! You rat, you deliberately misled me!"
Darcy was laughing out load now, as Liz scowled at him, trying to maintain the pretence of being angry.
"I'll get you back for this you know," Liz threw at him, unable to keep the beginnings of a smile from her face.
"I know you will, my love, and I'm truly afraid," William smiled as he put away his phone and reached out to pull her toward him again. "Is there anything I can do that might make you forgive me?"
He felt her shiver as he ran a trail of kisses from behind her ear to the hollow of her throat.
"Don't try and distract me here Will," she sighed before she began to slide her hands up his chest.
She found his mouth again on hers as he began to tease her lips apart, and she again gave herself up to the ecstasy of the moment.
"Do we have an understanding?" Darcy asked Liz, several minutes later as he led her inside to hide from the cold air that had come down with the night.
"I certainly hope so," Liz smiled.
"Great!" said Darcy looking at his watch, "and with 13 hours to spare too."
Liz looked at him as if he were a bit touched, but he just grinned and pulled her behind a corner bookshelf to take her in another lingering kiss.
Finale
As William flew home the next morning he wondered at the changes the last 24 hours had seen in his life. He had moved from doubt and uncertainty, to hope and security; he'd gone from a place of unsettling emptiness, to a place of fulfilment and satisfaction... and it had nothing to do with his new position.
A few months ago he would have seen the achievement of attaining a place as a full lecturer, especially at his age, as the realisation of a dream, but now he hardly regarded it. The priorities in his life had significantly changed, and it was difficult to give any thought at all to anything but Liz. He was in a world far away for most of the flight, just thinking of her smile, her laugh, her liveliness, her kisses...
The loss he would feel on moving away from his family would be tempered by the presence of Elizabeth, and he was sure the compensations would far outweigh the sacrifices. He knew this move was right. His future had now had the direction and purpose he'd longed for.
His mind finally moved on to everything he'd have to tie up and organise during the last two weeks of the semester. It was a little overwhelming. Still, in some ways, he was concerned that this time would seem too long. He was already feeling an impatience to be back with Liz.
They had decided between themselves, that William would drive down in the first week of the break and spend some time looking for accommodation and readying himself to begin in his new role. When this was completed they would drive back together. Liz would then stay with Janie to catch up with her and help with the wedding preparations, before they returned for the new semester. He sighed and set himself to wait out the two weeks until he'd see her again.
His arrival home was full of touching moments. His parents' pride and congratulations were all that were all that he could have wanted, and though he could see they were struggling with the idea of him moving away, he was grateful that they worked hard at not letting this become a shadow over his achievement. Georgie just cried, and made him promise to come back home very often.
George was interested to know all the details of the interview, wanted to look at the contract, position statement and know all the nitty-gritty about the Department. Darcy satisfied him as much as he could. Anne listened with a quieter interest, but as soon as she had an opportunity to talk to him alone she asked the question foremost in her mind.
"Did you get a chance to talk to Liz? Could I be right in assuming that your positive outlook is not due alone to your getting the job?"
"You've always been a perceptive woman Mum, but your perception is a little off kilter here. I'd say my positive attitude actually has nothing to do with me getting the job... except of course in that it brings me close to her."
"My goodness," Anne smiled at her son. "You're sounding worse than Chaz. You must be far-gone! I take it that you made some progress with the girl then?"
"We've come to an 'understanding'," William grinned, "but oddly enough we never really got around to specifically stating what that 'understanding' was. It's an oversight I intend to remedy fairly soon... I just became a little distracted."
"As you do," Anne commented dryly.
"Yes... as you do," William grinned back.
It was a few days into the winter break. Darcy and Liz waited for an answer to their knock on the door, as they continued in their quest for some decent accommodation for William. Being half way through the academic year, finding a place was not proving to be as easy task. All the reasonable units had been taken long ago, leaving only a small choice of apartments where the term "rustic" would have been a generous assessment, and in reality "squalid" might have been much closer to the truth.
"You'd think a few more people could have had the courtesy to fail and move out of some decent apartments to back home," Darcy murmured.
"Their accommodation has already been snaffled by those who needed to get out of the units we looked at today", Liz laughed. "You could always take one of the on-campus student rooms as a last resort."
"Never!" Darcy exclaimed. "I'd rather buy a tent."
Just then the door was answered by a nice looking middle aged woman, with a pleasant, motherly face.
"So you're the couple Steven sent over. " she smiled, referring to another of the lecturers in the history Department. "I'm Jan. So you've been having some difficulty in finding a place that suits you?"
"You could say that," Darcy smiled back. "I'm William and this is Liz. We really appreciate you considering to let your Granny Flat out."
"We'll, it's been sitting vacant since Mum had to move into a nursing home after breaking her hip. I think that I've come to accept that she'll never really be well enough to move back here, so it's time I did something about it. It's too much of a waste to have it just lying empty. It'd be nice to have a young couple make use of it."
Liz expected William to correct her impression that they'd both be moving in, but he remained silent on the subject as they followed Jan to the back of the house.
The Granny Flat was an attractive little weather board structure, painted in a white with a dusty blue trim. Its quaint appearance was complimented by a pretty cottage style garden, and a small private courtyard off to the side. Compared to the dumps they had inspected earlier that day, it looked like heaven.
"It's only partially furnished," Jan was saying as she unlocked the door. "The family has taken a lot of things, but if anything left can be of use to you, feel free to use it. We'll take out anything you don't want. I'll leave you here to look around and think about it. Just give me a knock when you've decided."
They thanked her and stepped inside.
The inside was as tidy and attractive as the outside had promised it to be. It had a well-equipped little kitchenette, a compact bathroom, a bedroom, another smaller room, which they could tell by the things left in it, used to be a sewing room. There was also an adequately sized living area.
"Well, I think you've fallen on your feet here," Liz smiled at Darcy. "Though the floral curtains may cause some questions about your manhood."
"Well gorgeous," Darcy replied with a wicked grin, "If you ever have any concerns in that regard, I'd be glad to prove them wrong."
"I'm sure you would be," Liz answered dryly, as Darcy pulled her down next to him on the sofa to place a soft kiss on her lips.
"Well, do we take the place?" he asked.
"What's this 'we'? I would think this decision is up to you."
"Liz darling," he replied with a slight smile, whilst playing with some soft curls that fell around her neck, "I would never assume to make a major decision like where we'll live, without consulting you."
"William," came the calm reply "I'm not moving in with you."
"So you say Liz," William murmured as he placed some kisses from the hollow of her throat up to behind her ear, "but I find the idea of a newly married couple living apart, rather odd."
"Don't try and confuse this with your kisses," Liz said, as she tried to shake the sensations he was creating in her. "We talked about this before and you know... Did you say 'married'?"
"Yes 'married'. Try and get with the conversation will you?" Darcy teased.
"Oh, do be serious," Liz pleaded.
"I am, perfectly. I've never been more serious in my life. I can't imagine my life without you." William smiled at the confused look on Liz's face. "Look, as you seem to be having a little difficulty keeping up with things today, I'll put it simply. I love you Elizabeth Bennet, and I want to marry you."
"But William, isn't this too sudden? Don't you want to think about it some more?"
"If you need more time Liz, that's fine, but there's nothing sudden or impulsive about this for me. I've done little but think of you since we first met... no, even before then, when Chaz and I overheard you and Jane chatting at the coffee shop. The more I learned about you, the more I found to like. I've known for months now that I love you... your thoughts... your manner... your passions... your mind... not to mention your beauty..." William faded out as he drew Liz to him again for a hungry kiss.
Liz pulled away, she needed to keep her wits about her. She needed to think. This was totally unexpected... though not at all unwelcome... or undreamed of. Her mind was a confusion of thoughts and feelings that she didn't even know how to begin to unravel. Her heart however, was a different matter. There was no confusion there. She looked up to find him smiling at her, and her heart gave a jolt.
"You're enjoying this, aren't you?" she accused.
"The novelty of seeing you speechless ?" William grinned. "Not at all. I'm actually very keen for an answer."
"Why the hurry?"
"Because," William answered calmly, "A person whom I very much love and respect, not long ago said to me, 'once you've decided that the other person is right for you, and that you're really ready to commit - why waste time?' "
He watched a smile creep on to her face as she recognised her own words.
"Well who could argue with such sage advice?" she quipped.
"So... you will marry me?"
"Yes, but only to save you from the damage these floral curtains could cause to your reputation."
"You little witch!" he laughed as he drew her to himself for another kiss. This time she didn't argue.
It was some time later that it occurred to Darcy that Jan might be wondering what had become of them, and he said as much to Liz.
"We'd better go and tell her that we'll take the place," William said. "I'll have to let her know that I particularly appreciate the curtains. I don't want her changing them and giving you any excuse to back out of this engagement."
Later that afternoon Darcy and Liz sat in a quiet café and discussed where to go to from here. Darcy's initial euphoria had settled down to a deep-seated happiness and contentment, and Liz's stupefaction and confusion had given way to an excitement and a certainty that this was right, that William was a man she could, and already did, truly love and respect.
William looked up from the menu he was perusing, and returned the smile that Liz was giving him.
"A penny for your thoughts."
"A fool and his money are easily parted," Liz cheekily replied.
William just laughed.
"Liz, I know you already think I'm pushing things a little, but what do you think of asking Chaz and Janie about whether they'd consider a double wedding. Chaz would already have most of the people I'd want to invite on his list, and I'd assume this would be similar with you and Janie. I know they were finding finances a little tight, and this way we could split the costs."
"Splitting the cost?," Liz grinned. "How very romantic of you. Could you possibly be taking my 'fool and his money' quote a little too seriously?"
"Economy is just a good excuse," William smiled back at her. "The truth is that I want to marry you, and this is the fastest way I can think of to get you to the alter."
"So, are you going to face my father with this suggestion? I've been trying to work out how to break it to him that I'm engaged to a man he's probably only heard me mention in passing once or twice," Liz grimaced. "I don't know what he'll think if I tell him I'd like to be married in just over a month."
"You would?"
"What?"
"Like to be married in just over a month?" William grinned.
"Well, I suppose I would," Liz admitted almost shyly.
"Come on then." William pulled Liz to her feet. "We've lots to do. You ring Janie, I'll ring Chaz, and then we'd better be off to face your Dad. How do you think he'll react?"
"He'll be concerned, but he'd never stand in the way of my right to live my own life. I hope he trusts my judgement. Once he gets to know you he'll be fine."
"And your mum?"
"Well, if she can take time off from her pursuit of husband number three, she'll probably just think it's romantic. What about your family?"
"The only opposition I'd have been likely to face," Darcy grinned, "Would've been if I didn't propose."
So it was, that on a crisp winter's morning, Jane Barton and Charles Bingley, and Elizabeth Bennet and William Darcy, became united in holy matrimony. The simple and intimate ceremony was shared with family and close friends, in a church overlooking the beach.
William and Charles had asked Henry Tilney, an old school friend, stand up for them as best-man, and Liz and Janie had chosen Georgie as maid-of-honour. Almost stealing the show was their cute little flower girl, a beaming and excited Melody. She had seemed such an appropriate choice, as she had in effect, been the means of bringing the two couples together.
Words seem inadequate to explain Williams's emotions as he stood beside Elizabeth at the altar. Her beauty that morning almost took his breath away, and the look in her eyes as she smiled up at him was to die for. Though is some ways it seemed that their vows were a culmination of their relationship, he knew this was not so. This was just a beginning... a beginning of a shared life of hopes, joys, and no doubt some sadness' and disappointments. It would be a life where they would work as one to build a fulfilling, dynamic and loving existence, whether times be prosperous or difficult. He knew that in Elizabeth he had found a partner who would make him whole.
Later that evening, as he took Elizabeth into his arms, he could hardly fathom the depth of his happiness.
"Do you know how much I love you William Darcy?" Liz smiled. "I'm having a little difficulty in comprehending my good fortune in finding a man like you."
William didn't reply but instead concentrated on the softness of her lips and body, as the true nature of their oneness dawned even deeper upon him.
Liz sighed with the exquisiteness of his nearness and touch.
She pulled back a little and looked at him with a slight smile.
"You know... the implications of those floral curtains have been playing on my mind yet again..."
William laughed.
"I'm sure we'll be able to put any anxieties you have in that regard to rest, once and for all," he murmured as he placed a line of kisses along her throat, whilst undoing the buttons down the back of her dress...
William and Liz stayed happily in their granny flat for the first three years of their marriage, never feeling the need to change the curtains. William then took a tenure at his parent's university where he became commonly known as 'young Dr Darcy'. George didn't even complain at being 'old Dr Darcy', as he was too pleased at having his son and daughter-in-law living close by.
The hopes of both the couples, and of those who cared for them, were answered in seeing relationships that grew in love, closeness and respect, and that provided true examples of the real fulfilment and happiness that can be achieved in marriages where love, commitment, humour, and good sense are combined in generous amounts.
The End