Chapter 15

Saturday, June 2, 2001

This was not the worst time in William Darcy's life. No, that dubious honor goes to the time when his mother was dying slowly of cancer. It wasn't even the second worst time in his life, that being the sudden death of his father, and ultimately his having to step forward to take on not only the massive responsibles of D-Tech and the family estate, but his young sister as well.

But he could safely say this was number three on the list. They had two more weeks until they would come home, and Darcy couldn't wait. He quietly checked on Charles, who was playing that stupid game again. Still Darcy couldn't complain. Much better that Charles lose himself in some fantasy computer game than what happened last weekend.

*****

They had just arrived in Vienna and checked into their suite. Charles was on the phone, calling Caroline, to once again leave a message for Jane. William could hear Caroline's voice over the phone and knew she wasn't happy.

Charles then passed the phone to him. "Yes, Caroline?" William said.

"William," she hissed. "I thought you were going to tell him about Jane.

William was careful to keep his voice neutral. "I will Caroline, I'm just waiting for the right time."

"Well, tell him soon! It can't be good for him to be moping about like that!"

"Goodbye, Caroline," William said blandly as he rung off. He wondered what she thought sometimes, if she ever thought. Yes, it was bad having Charles moping, but did she really think he'd be any better knowing he'd been dumped?

Still, she had a point. William had been putting it off too long. "Charles," he called into the adjoining room, "I need to talk to you."

Charles came in and sat down, and looked at him warily. William blew out a deep breath and began, "Charles, I don't know how to say this without hurting you, so I am just going to say it." He was pacing. "Jane's not going to call."

Charles eyes widened, "What?" he said softly.

William looked away, "Caroline called Jane last week and she gave her our number. Caroline said it was pretty clear that Jane," his eyes circled the room as he looked for the right words, "Jane was moving on." There, he'd said it.

'NO!" Charles snapped, leaping to his feet. "NO! I don't believe it! She wouldn't . . . She's not like that, Will! You've got to be wrong!"

William didn't say anything, what was there to say?

Charles grabbed the phone and started dialing, then stopped and angrily threw it at the wall, where it shattered noisily.

Charles stalked the room, his fist clenched. "You are certain?" he asked tightly.

William nodded, once.

"Get me a bottle, now," he whispered.

William judged that vodka would be fastest and called down for a bottle for Charles and some scotch for himself. He knew he wasn't going anyplace. Charles stared silently out the window while they waited. William didn't try to talk. What could he say? It would all just be bullshit right now.

The bell rang and William answered it, returning a moment later with the two bottles of liquor. Charles didn't bother with a glass. He just opened the bottle and poured the stuff down his throat as fast as he could. William knew he was self-medicating. Charles was trying to reach oblivion as fast as he could, and William couldn't blame him. His just watched, while he sipped his scotch, making sure Charles didn't do anything really violent to himself.

It didn't take more than half an hour before Charles was out for the count. William took the bottle away from him and recapped it, two thirds of it was gone. 'Not bad', William thought.

William sat in the silence of the room, sipping. He knew he was self-medicating to, but he was aware of it, and as always, was in control. That was William's key word: control.

Except he wasn't in control. It was a bitter lie. Somewhere he had lost it. He had no idea where, but he knew his life was definitely not under his control. If it was, he wouldn't be here, he wouldn't be stuck in Europe when he needed to be back with her in the states.

He wasn't going to think about her. He couldn't now. There was too much going on, he didn't have time for Elizabeth. . . shit!

He didn't know why, but for some reason, he had just assumed that it was Jane's rejecting Charles that had prevented Elizabeth from calling. Maybe it was his ego, maybe his heart? He didn't know. How had this happened? What where they doing here? Why was his best friend passed out because he lost the girl he wanted to marry for some stupid trip!

'Focus Darcy,' he told himself. 'You know why you are here. How many millions have you made on this trip already? You've made the front page of the Wall Street Journal twice this trip. That's why you are here,' he told himself.

He tried to believed it. Rationalizing had always been one of his best skills. He tried to believe that he and Charles were like Knights Errant, traveling in distant lands, far from home, seeking honor, and glory and riches. 'Why?' his mind asked. Why? So they win take their fortunes, and return home and claim their brides! That's why!

Brides!?!

"Shit!" William said emphatically and drank a lot more scotch.

At 5:30 the next morning, William was awaked by the sound of Charles' voice. He was awake and drunk again, and talking into a phone. William rushed over and took the phone away. William could hear a voice on the other end. He muttered an apology and hung up, then turned to Charles, who was laying on the floor, cursing him.

William ignored his friend's angry words and helped him back to his bed. He sat in Charles' room, until Charles was fast asleep, and a while longer. William was worried. He had never seen Charles this bad before. He'd seen Charles' heart get broken before, plenty of times, but Charles had never taken it like this.

*****

"Oh God," he sighed, closing his eyes, pushing the memories of a week ago away. This trip had turned into a nightmare and William had no idea what to do but finish it. They couldn't go back, they had to go forward, to walk through the fire, until it was over.

For the last week, Charles had been withdrawn and sullen. William thought he had seen Charles at his worse before. He had been there when Charles' mother had died. William remembered then how Charles had cried, how he had talked all night, he had even written a poem about her, but he had never withdrawn. Now Charles had turned into a brooding shadow. It frightened William. After he had spent two days attempting to destroy his liver, Charles had discovered some computer game, 'Diablo' or something, and he had been playing it non-stop since then. Every time they were out of work, Charles could be found staring mindlessly at the computer screen.

William figured it was safer than vodka, but he didn't like it.

William for his part, had taken refuge in his old standbys: work and scotch. They were in Berlin now, for all it mattered. It was just one suite after another as far as he was concerned. Their work had gone very well. They had cut deals and secured markets that insured that their companies would be on stable ground, no matter which way the economy went.

William stretched his shoulders, then took a sip of his drink. One of the wonderful things about scotch is its unique ability to, without making you drunk, loosen all the screws of tension in your mind. It was like penetrating oil for the psyche. William would feel the tightness ebbing out of his head, his neck, his shoulders. His heart was a different story. No, his heart was locked up tight. Steel bands encased it. He didn't dare unlock it. Not here, it was too dangerous.

He had thought about calling her. Everyday he thought about it; heck, every hour. He wanted to hear her voice so badly. He needed to hear her say his name. His eyes flicked to Charles sitting near by. It was impossible. How was he to call Elizabeth, knowing that Jane would probably be in the same house, with Charles in the next room. No, there was no way. He couldn't do it.

He knew he was taking a risk. He had promised her he would call, but he had to trust that he was doing the right thing, trust that she would understand when they got back. 'Two weeks,' he told himself, two weeks until they were home and he would be able to work this all out.

**********

Tuesday, June 12, 2001

Elizabeth and Jane never talked about that phone call. It was forbidden. It was too painful. Jane had quietly accepted that Charles was gone. She never talked about him, she maintained her daily routine, winding down the school year with her beloved students. But Elizabeth could see she was changed. As much as she tried, Jane's smile was not quite the same. She spent her time at home staring at nothing, her thoughts hundreds of miles away. Even her diet had changed. The girls found themselves having hot fudge sundaes for dinner many times a week, but neither of them could say anything about it.

They just continued on, pretending nothing had happened, that their life was the same as it was before January. It was a lie, but it was a necessary lie. Any other way lead to madness.

So they drove to the monthly Barony fighter practice as usual, deliberately avoiding any memories of what had happened there. Elizabeth was pleased when they were greeted by Charlotte as soon as they entered the room. She hugged them warmly, then dragged them away to a private corner.

"I have something to tell you," she said excitedly.

Elizabeth grinned at Charlotte's energy. "Could it have something to do with a certain mystery man?" she asked.

Charlotte blushed. "I wanted to tell you first, before the announcement." She held up her left hand, on which was perched a diamond solitaire. "I'm engaged!"

Elizabeth felt her jaw drop. "Charlotte!!!" she exclaimed. "Ohmygod! I can't believe it! Who!?!"

Charlotte laughed. "It's Bill" she said happily. "Bill Collins!"

Elizabeth's jaw dropped even lower. "What?" she asked astonished.

"I know," Charlotte nodded. "It is very quick. We've only known each other for a couple months, but I think it's right Lizzy!" She hugged Elizabeth, "Oh, thank you for introducing us!"

Elizabeth was flabbergasted. If you told her that Charlotte was engaged to the Easter Bunny it would have made more sense. Luckily Jane covered for her. "Oh, Charlotte, I'm so happy for you!" she said hugging the girl. "Come on, I must congratulate your groom." Elizabeth allowed herself to be swept along to a smiling Bill Collins.

"Elizabeth, Jane!" he enthused as he took Charlotte's hand. "You must thank your dear mother for me. She certainly was correct in telling me where to find my love." He gazed happily at Charlotte as Elizabeth thought she would be sick.

Elizabeth excused herself, saying she needed something from her car, and walked out. She was leaning against the door wondering what the hell was happening when Charlotte joined her.

Elizabeth looked at her friend and opened her mouth, but could think of nothing to say.

Charlotte said kindly, "It's a shock, isn't it?"

Elizabeth nodded, "Are you happy?" she asked.

Charlotte nodded back, smiling confidently. "I've never been happier in my life." She took Elizabeth's hand and walked with her back inside, to a pair of private chairs, where they could talk.

Elizabeth struggled to conceal her shock. "You, and Bill Collins, Charlotte?"

Charlotte nodded happily. "Oh, I know he's no prince but..." she trailed off as her eyes rose to someone standing behind Elizabeth.

"Lady Elizabeth," George Wickham said in a silky voice, "I was so sorry you left the War of the Roses early." He leaned down to speak into her ear. "I missed you."

Elizabeth's back was straight as a rod. "I'm so sorry," she said in a unfriendly voice. "I had to leave."

"Had to, oh?" he continued, his breath tickling her ear. "What's the matter? Did you think I couldn't keep a secret? Don't worry, I wouldn't have told a soul."

Elizabeth clenched her fists as her color rose. She couldn't believe the nerve of him. She gave him a hard look as she pushed him away with the flat of her hand against his chest.

Wickham laughed, then he said very distinctly in her face, "Nobody walks out on me, Elizabeth."

She turned her head away from him. He laughed cruelly, "Oh, Elizabeth, poor baby!" he said condescendingly. "Haven't heard from Sir Willie lately have you? Hmm?" His voice dropped and gained in malice as he said, "Must still be taking care of business in Rome."

Elizabeth saw red. She stood and faced him. "Get away from me," she said in a dangerous low voice. "Get away from me and stay away. I never want to see you again."

"I told you he wouldn't call," he said with mean grin. "Pity you had to go home and keep yourself pure for him, you missed all the fun."

"Look Slick, I don't know where William is, or why he hasn't called, but I'm sure not going to believe anything from a lying scum bag like you!" She spat. "Now, get out of here, and I swear, if I ever hear you say anything about William Darcy again, I will find you and kick your ass from one side of town to the other!"

"Is there anything wrong, Elizabeth?" Baron Lucas asked. Elizabeth was surprised to see him standing beside her. She then noticed she was surrounded by the men of the Barony on all sides.

"No, Mr. Wickham was just leaving," she said calmly

"I see," said Lucas, casting a hard stare at George.

Wickham held up his hands and backed away, leaving the building.

Elizabeth took a deep breath and sat down.

"Are you okay?" Charlotte asked, hugging her tightly. "You really told him off!"

Elizabeth covered her face with her hands. "I'm sorry," she said embarrassed. "I shouldn't have made a scene."

Charlotte shook her head. "It's okay Lizzy. We know who to believe."

Charlotte comforted Lizzy until she was ready to go home. The women made plans for a lunch date to discuss Charlotte's wedding. Elizabeth didn't even notice the way Bill Collins had watched the whole scene, taking mental notes he believed his employer would find most interesting.

*****

Elizabeth walked into her home in a daze. Had the whole world gone insane? What happened to her happy, quiet little life? She got a pint of Cherries Garcia from the freezer and a spoon and collapsed on the couch.

"Jane?" she asked shakily, "Did I just have a very strange hallucination, or is Charlotte going to marry a toad?"

"Lizzy," Jane scolded her gently. "Charlotte seems very happy with Bill."

Damn, no hallucination. "It's just, Jane, he's a toad!" she said in shocked confusion.

"He may not be your ideal man, or mine, Lizzy, but if Charlotte wants to spend her life with Bill, then who are we to question her?"

Elizabeth had to agree that Jane had a point, after all, look at them: lonely, heart-broken, alone and eating ice cream for dinner again. No true love to be found here. Elizabeth sat and stared at the tv until she felt tired enough to sleep. She had no idea what she watched, it didn't matter, it was just a place to put her eyes. She couldn't go on like this.

She cleaned herself up and got into her bed. She closed her eyes and relaxed in the darkness. A few minutes later she realized she wasn't alone. She opened her eyes to find William's staring back at her. It was his superior stare, the stare that had always made her uncomfortable. But not this time. This time, she knew it was a mask, hiding the worry and fear he could not to show the world.

Elizabeth reached out and took his hand, gently pulling him into her bed. Her eyes were full of the tenderness she felt for him. "Elizabeth," he said softly.

"Shh," she quieted him. "Just let me hold you," she said, placing her fingers over his mouth and snuggling close to him. She didn't know what had happened to their clothes, nor did she care. She rested her head on his broad shoulder and relished the feeling of his skin against hers. Their legs intertwined and he rubbed her upper arm gently.

"Say my name," he pleaded. "Let me know you're really here."

"William," she smiled, lifting her head to look into his eyes. "I'm here," she breathed as she softly kissed his lips.

William lifted his hand to her soft curls, and gently pushed them from her face. "I've missed you so much, my love."

Elizabeth gave a faint squeak of astonishment. "Your love?" she asked tremulously.

He smiled tenderly into her eyes, "Of course, what else should I call you?" he whispered as he gently pulled her mouth to his. Elizabeth closed her eyes and focused on the wonderful sweetness of his lips on hers. His kiss was so light, so soft, yet even these angel kisses awoke the desire she had repressed for so long. Together they opened their mouths to each other, deepening and lengthening the kiss.

William broke off and squeezed her body close to his. "You feel so good. I've missed you so much, Elizabeth."

Elizabeth burned from the feel of him against her, she could feel his excitement pressing against her belly and she wrapped her arms around his neck possessively. "You feel so good, Will." He kissed her again, not holding anything back. They kissed through all their loneliness and frustrations until they were both dizzy and panting.

William rolled her onto her back and began kissing her throat, starting at that tender place under her ear, until she was writhing beneath him. "I want to make love to you all night long, my love," he said ardently as his hands traced the smooth round curves of her body.

Elizabeth moaned with need as he caressed her full, round breasts. Her body was throbbing as wave after wave of pleasure burned through her, and her excitement grew. "Darling, I don't know if I can wait that long," she sighed.

"Let me pleasure you, Elizabeth, trust me," he said as he slid his mouth down to her soft breast. He teased her nipple to full hardness, admiring the way it resembled a full red berry. His hand traveled slowly, with feather light touches, to her inner thigh, which he caressed until her legs parted in welcome to his touch. He enjoyed the feeling of her fingers playing with his hair, urging him on. He smiled at the low sounds of pleasure she made as his fingers found her secret place. She was open and wet to his touch. "William," she mewed as he took her rosy nipple into his mouth.

Her hand clamped his head to her, while its mate stoked his shoulder imploringly. "Darling, oh god, that feel so good," she moaned. William could feel her body growing tense in response to his touch. When he knew she was close he stopped.

Elizabeth eyes flew open as she looked at him bereft. "Don't stop," she begged. William pulled his body on top of hers, and she eagerly opened herself wide to admit him.

"Are you sure, my love?" he asked, looking into her fevered eyes.

"Yes, please!" she said, her voice husky with need.

Never releasing her eyes, he lowered himself into her. Her eyes filled with overwhelming beauty as he thrust his full length into her and the feelings overtook her.

"My love," she sighed as a sense of completeness touched her. "My darling love," she cried. William pulled her closer and kissed the away the tiny tears that had escaped her eyes.

"It's all right, darling, it's okay," he soothed her as his body gently rocked back and forth in and out of her.

"I'm so happy," she said into his ear, "So happy, love."

William closed his eyes tightly and nibbled lightly on her collarbone as he struggled to keep his own tears in. She was his, after so long, she was his. Their bodies moved in concert, discovering each others preferences and lovingly pushing each other to greater levels of delight.

Elizabeth's soft cries became louder and more insistent as her fingers clutched his back, pulling him closer. William could feel his own need growing as the pleasure built a fire burning low in his groin. He could feel her back arching into him and he responded by thrusting deeper into her. Harder and faster, their need drove them on in a relentless rhythm.

William could feel her fingernails raking his back, but he was too far gone to care, as her body tightened around his. Then she screamed in a release that pushed them both off the edge of aching tension into blissful euphoria. Awareness left them and they experienced the rare and fleeting sensation of their two souls being remade as one.

Waves of tenderness washed over William as he returned to his flesh, which was still encased in her beautiful body. Gently he rolled them to their sides, careful to remain joined with her. Elizabeth was still drifting and he protected her body with his own, until she came back to him.

"My love," she purred with a soft, lazy smile. William could not resist kissing her swollen lips.

"I was beginning to wonder if you were going to come back," he teased lovingly.

Her smiled grew, "It's your fault, after all. You were the one who gave me such" she stopped to kiss him, "wonderful," kiss, "feelings".

William gently pushed her damp hair away from her face. "You are so beautiful," he said, his voice filled with awe. Elizabeth reached up her hand and intertwined her fingers with his.

They lay still a moment, accepting and embracing this remarkable experience they had shared. Finally, Elizabeth closed her eyes, and pulled their linked hands to her lips. "It's a dream, isn't it?" she asked, kissing his fingers.

William shook his head slightly. "I don't know, I've never had a dream like this before." He smiled sadly into her eyes, "And I've dreamed about you more times than I can remember."

Elizabeth grinned lovingly back at him and kissed his soft lips. "I miss you so much, love. Tell me you will be back soon?"

"Soon," he assured her, "I promise, as soon as I can." His eyes turned serious, "Then we will never be apart again."

Elizabeth nodded solemnly, a tear escaping her eye. "Stay with me as long as you can," she said brokenly, as she pulled him close.

"I will," he swore.

****

"Will, wake up," Charles said as he shook William's arm. "It's late."

William held tight to the dream, even as awareness overcame him. He remembered how he had held her body close to his, letting the sensations of their togetherness imprint upon his mind. His heart had recorded the smell of their joining, his soul cherished the feel of her heart beating in unison with his, and his spirit locked away the impression of the weight of her body on his.

He opened his eyes. With a heavy, sinking feeling, his mind returned to the present. The warmth and beauty of the dream faded, and he became aware of the bleak hotel room surrounding him.

"Good dream?" Charles asked as he returned to the bathroom. William nodded. The details had already left him, but a warmth remained in his heart, that he didn't understand, or question.

"Will, I've made a decision. When we get done here, I'm going to Santa Cruz to work on that project for a couple weeks."

"You're not going back to Meryton?" William asked as he dressed.

"Why should I? There's nothing for me there," Charles answered bitterly.

*****

Sunday, June 17, 2001

The ringing of the phone awoke William from his nap. He grabbed the receiver and said "Darcy" into it as he regained awareness. He was home, in his big bed at Pemberley.

"William? Is that you?" asked an elderly female voice.

"Aunt Catherine?" William sat up and cleared his throat, "Yes, it's me. I'm sorry, I was just taking a nap."

"Oh really?" she asked, her tone inferring disapproval at his perceived laziness.

"Yes, I just returned from Europe and it will take a while before I'm back on Eastern daylight time," he explained.

"Oh, yes, that's right," she forgave him. "No matter, I'm wondering if you are coming to my Fourth of July Picnic at Rosings." Rosings was his aunt's 'summer cottage' on Lake George. William was always impressed at his aunt's ability to refer to a 32 room mansion as a cottage with a straight face. "I've invited one of your friends to be there."

"Oh really?" William asked disinterestedly as he got up and began to think about dinner.

"Yes, what was her name? Oh yes, Elizabeth Bennet."

William dropped the phone. "What?" he asked as he scrambled to pick it back up.

"Are you there, William dear?" his aunt sounded concerned.

"Yes, Aunt Catherine," he said quickly. "What was that name again?"

"Elizabeth Bennet," she repeated impatiently. William sat heavily on the bed as his legs stopped working. "She's best friend's with my assistant's fiancé." Aunt Catherine continued. "Dr. Collins, that's my assistant, you know, he told me a most interesting story about her."

William's mind was frantically trying to make sense of his aunt's words.

"It seems that Miss Bennet was publicly defending you while you were away, William. Were your ears ringing?" she asked with a laugh.

"Excuse me?"

"Yes, it seems that some unsavory fellow was denouncing you at some meeting or something, and Miss Bennet stood up and told this fellow exactly where to go, according to Dr. Collins."

William tried to take it all in. Elizabeth, His Elizabeth defending him in public! She still cared! And she was going to be at the party in two weeks.

"William, are you listening?" Catherine sounded perturbed.

"I'm sorry, Aunt Catherine, what was that?"

"I asked if I could expect you at my picnic on the Fourth?" she said exasperatedly.

"Oh, yes, Aunt Catherine, I wouldn't miss it for anything," he said confidently.

Chapter 16

Friday July 4, 2001

"Will, do you want me to drive?" Michael asked.

"No, why?" William Darcy asked, with slight annoyance, of his squire.

"Well, you've just cut off the third car in fifteen minutes and you're going over ninety with the trailer," he shrugged. "You seem a little distracted."

William quickly looked out his review mirror to see that yes, he had cut off another car with the large truck he was driving. He gave Michael a sheepish look and muttered, "Sorry."

"You wanna talk about it?"

William sighed. "It's just," he paused, "my lady is going to be at the party tonight." He smiled inwardly. "I haven't seen her since Coronation."

Michael nodded his head slowly. "That explains why we are moving like a bat out of hell," he grinned. "This is the lady Elizabeth, I assume?" His knight was never very forthcoming about his personal life, so Michael had become very good at reading clues to know what was going on.

William nodded, his smile growing.

"How is she?" Michael asked politely. He remembered the lady from her workshop. She had seemed very nice.

William's expression dropped. "She's fine, I guess," he frowned. "I haven't heard from her."

Michael looked carefully at William's face. "What do you mean?"

"I haven't talked to her since just after Coronation," he explained.

"Then how do you know she's going to be there tonight?"

"My aunt invited her to the party tonight," William said. "I'm going to surprise her," he said with pride.

Warning bells were going off in Michael's head. "You mean, you haven't seen or spoken to her for two months?" he asked disbelievingly. "Will, are you sure she's still interested in you?"

William grinned confidently, "Yes, I'm sure. My aunt's assistant overheard her defending me to her friends." He nodded to himself. "I'm going to see her tonight, and we will talk, and everything will be fine."

Only Michael's immense respect for William's fighting ability stopped him from giving the man a dolt slap to the side of his head. "Will, have you ever thought that she might be," he stopped, trying to phrase this just right, "angry? Girls don't like it when you leave them hanging for two months." 'To say the least,' he thought.

William agreed. "I know, I wanted to call her, believe me." He sighed, "there were . . . complications. Her sister broke up with Charles while we were away, and I couldn't call her during that."

"What? Again? Damn it!" Michael swore in exasperation. Charles seemed to have the worse luck with women. Then he realized something, "Wait a minute. You're not talking about Jane, are you? That pretty blonde woman?"

William nodded sadly.

"No way! I can't believe it. They seemed so happy together."

William shrugged. "I was just as surprised as anyone, believe me."

Michael looked at William, "How did he take it?"

William shook his head, "Badly. Very badly. Truthfully, I've never seen him so upset."

Michael sighed, "Damn! Is that why he's in Japan?"

William nodded, "I think so. He didn't want to come back, so he's been taking every business trip he can find."

"Will he come back for Pennsic?"

"I hope so," William said quietly, not at all sure if Charles would return.

"So, why didn't you call Elizabeth while you were gone?" Michael asked, trying to fully understand the situation.

"Elizabeth lives with her sister, so I couldn't call her while I was with Charles and he was falling apart," William explained. "I know she may be unhappy, but I'm sure once I explain it, she will understand."

Michael nodded noncommittally, but inside he was making a mental note to tell his squire brothers to prepare for disaster.

*******

The Central Region War Camp was an annual event that fell on the Fourth of July weekend. Its location was the Warren County Fairgrounds, a rough site that had the advantage of large empty fields, a horse ring and a creek in the back for swimming. William drove the truck and its trailer over the rough dirt road to the traditional Pemberley campsite and the two men began unpacking. It was slightly after 4pm, William had plenty of time to get the camp set up and make it to his aunt's for the party at 8pm.

"Who's coming this weekend?" William asked.

"You, me, Raf, Ari, and Sir Richard, I think," Michael answered.

William nodded. "Richard will be staying at Rosings, so we won't need a tent for him. Can you and Raf share a tent?"

Michael nodded.

"Okay, so three tents and the Commons." He began throwing out bundles from the trailer. Working together, the men soon had the large 'Commons' up. The Commons was a large tent roof top, that had walls that could be attached in poor weather. It was used as a social area for members of the group, as well as a dining area.

Next was William's pavilion, a large round tent, 19 feet across at its base. It was blue and gold striped, with his Coat of Arms painted on the side, supported by a tiger and a hound.

After that, they put up two smaller, plainer walled tents for the squires' use. William was careful to make sure the squires tents weren't too close to his. "When my lady arrives tomorrow, I want her tent here," he indicated a space beside his pavilion.

Michael wanted to ask if he was sure she would want to camp with him, but he knew better and held his tongue. Instead he asked, "We're not going to bother with the camp walls and gate, are we?"

"No, but put the banner up," he ordered as he walked to his tent to set up the furnishings. Within two hours, William's tent was arranged with a queen sized bed, a table, chairs and a chest. The rest of Pemberley was outfitted in its usual elegant manor. Fire pits were banned by the site, due to fire concerns, so a large brazier was erected in the open area near the commons. Chairs were arranged beside it, in waiting for the evening, and more chairs and tables were set up under the commons. A rude field kitchen was set up in a corner of the commons, but little cooking would be done this weekend. Above it all, flew Pemberley's banner, which was white with wavy blue lines crossing it and three gold swords in a row across the top.

When William emerged from his tent, dressed for the party in a royal blue pima cotton polo shirt and white pants, he saw that Ari and Raf had arrived. Ari, or Ariel, as she was more properly known, was a slender Asian woman of average height. Raf was the shortest man in he household, at just under six feet. He was a handsome Latino man in his early twenties. They were talking to Michael, but turned to welcome William when he approached.

"William, good to see you," Arial smiled and hugged him. "You look nice. Going to that fancy party tonight," she observed.

William shrugged, "It's just my aunt's picnic," he said as he shook Raf's hand, greeting him. "I'm going to take the trailer to the parking area and then I'm leaving. Michael, take a break. You two," he indicated the other squires, "help the marshalls set up the list area, after you get settled in."

"Yes, sir," they answered faithfully.

William nodded, and with a small wave, he walked to his truck. "Oh, this is going to be bad," Arial observed. William's behavior and the information Michael had just shared confirmed that their great leader was heading for one heck of a fall. Her brothers nodded in agreement as they watched William drive away.

*****

Elizabeth had been completely surprised when Charlotte relayed her invitation to Catherine de Bourgh's annual Fourth of July Picnic. Why would this rich old lady want to invite Elizabeth, whom she had never met? But Charlotte was adamant. Mrs. de Bourgh wanted to meet her, and it would be a good chance for Elizabeth to spend some time with Charlotte.

That was the real reason she accepted the invitation. Charlotte had moved in with Bill Collins into his luxury condo down in White Plains in June. Elizabeth had hardly heard two words from her since the move. She missed Charlotte deeply, and although she was happy for her, she wanted to reassure herself that Charlotte wasn't making a mistake in settling for Bill Collins.

So she found herself driving up route 87, the Northway, towards Lake George, with Maria Lucas. Jane had gone to spend the holiday weekend in Boston with their aunt & uncle, and Elizabeth was grateful for the company. She worried about Jane, who had become more depressed since school had ended, and Elizabeth hoped at a visit to their relatives would cheer her up.

Elizabeth and Maria had planned to spend the evening at the de Bourgh picnic, then stay the night at the Rosings estate. Saturday, they would go to the War Camp, and spend the rest of the weekend there.

Elizabeth sighed softly. It was only after she had accepted the invitation, that she had a terrible realization. The War Camp. The Central Region War Camp, was going to be attended by the Central Region General, of course! William.

By all the dates he had told her, he should have been back in the county for at least two weeks now. She had heard nothing from him. Turns out she was wrong, William hadn't avoided calling her because of Charles, he simply hadn't wanted to call her. Whatever they had was over. That was that. Time to get over it and move on.

Right, if only it was that easy. It wasn't even so much that he had dumped her, it was the way he did it. The mystery. The way he had just gone away and never came back. That was what really hurt. She wished he had had the decency to at least call or send a 'Dear John' or something. But at least he was consistent, William Darcy had always been a big mystery to her.

Now she was going to an SCA event she knew he would be at. It might have frightened other women away, but Elizabeth would be damned before she let him drive her from something she wanted to do. A mixture of nervousness and anger had been churning in her gut the whole drive up. She tried to listen to Maria babble on about her upcoming senior year, and her college plans, but in fact, all Elizabeth could do was focus on what was coming tomorrow.

One thing was for sure. She was not going to let herself be affected by him. She was not going to embarrass herself by crying or throwing herself at him. No, she would ignore him. She might not even see him. After all, he would be on the battle field, and she was going to be shopping and hanging out with Charlotte.

Her rational side suspected her of lying to herself, but what could she do? All she could do is resolve to stay cool, and handle it the best she could.

Elizabeth followed the directions that had been emailed to her and soon found herself near the lake, at the entrance to a private road. A man in a guard uniform greeted them.

"Good evening, ladies," he said pleasantly, "May I have your names?"

They supplied their identities and were checked off a list. "Right, you are staying in 'the Parsonage'. It's the second guest house on the left after the main house. You can park your car there. Mr. Collins and Miss Lucas are already there."

Impressed by the guard's efficiency, Elizabeth thanked him and slowly pulled up the road. She traveled about a half mile when she saw a sight that took her breath away. When they came around a bend, there was a huge mansion. It was a victorian styled mountain house, made of brick and wood. Three levels of long narrow windows made the structure appear taller than it was. There were three porches that she could see and balconies on the upper level. It was a grand mansion, with a sense of age and old money.

Elizabeth carefully followed the road around the large house and found a smaller guest house, labeled 'the Parsonage'. Stopping the car, they were soon warmly greeted by Charlotte and Bill.

"So, what do you think of Rosings Park?" Bill asked her once they had entered the guest house.

"It's amazing! What a beautiful home, and the grounds. Are we close to the lake?"

"Oh, yes! You can't see if from the front of the house, but the main house is right on the lake. We will be able to view the fireworks from the back porch." He smiled patronizingly, "it's a inspiring sight".

Elizabeth exchanged an amused grin with Charlotte. "Well, I'm looking forward to it." Elizabeth and Maria were shown to their rooms, and were directed by Bill to hurry up and change, because they did not want to keep their hostess waiting.

Elizabeth smiled at Bill's enthusiasm. She washed up and changed into a tank dress made up of two layers of silk. Charlotte had told her the dress code for the picnic was 'dressy causal' and after many minutes of puzzling, she felt this would do. The bottom layer of silk was a rich Royal blue and the top layer was made of sheer hand painted silk chiffon, that was a vibrant swirl of green and blue ocean tones. Elizabeth put her hair up in a knot and added some silver jewelry.

They walked along a manicured path to the main house, Bill telling them about the 'Wonders of Rosings' the whole way. Elizabeth was happy to let Maria walk next to Bill and hang back with Charlotte.

"So, how have you been?" she asked.

"I'm good!" Charlotte said. "I'm really good."

"How's the new apartment?"

"Condo," Charlotte corrected her, "Bill has fits when I call it an apartment," she giggled. "It's actually really beautiful. When are you going to come and visit?"

"When are you going to invite me?" Elizabeth countered.

"Maybe later this month?" she said thoughtfully. "I know you are busy, but I'd love to have you stay for a weekend."

"I'd like that," Elizabeth said warmly. "I know you've been so busy with the rich and famous de Bourgh family," she joked. "I hope I won't embarrass you tonight."

"You? Never!" Charlotte assured her with a laugh.

"How many peopler are going to be here tonight?"

"I'm not sure, I think it's just going to be the upper level types and their families, oh, and Mrs. de Bourgh's family as well." Charlotte frowned thoughtfully, "Maybe 60, 80 people, certainly less than a hundred."

"Oh!" Elizabeth was used to large family picnics, but this was more than she expected.

When they entered the large mansion, they were greeted by a tall man with sandy blond hair. "Oh, there you are, Bill," he said in a cultured voice. He was wearing sandals, white denim shorts, a white v-neck tee shirt and a burned out velvet shirt in shades of maroon. The effect was casual, yet very expensive.

"Richard," Bill said in a annoyed voice. "Charlotte dearest, this is Mrs. de Bourgh's nephew, Richard Matlock," he turned to the man, "Richard, this is my fiancé, Charlotte Lucas, her sister Maria, and..."

"This must be Elizabeth." Richard charmingly interrupted the introductions. He stepped closer to Elizabeth and took her hand. "I've heard so much about you, Miss Bennet."

"Yes, well," Bill began.

"Bill, my aunt needs to see you right away," Richard said offhandedly, not even looking at him, but keeping his gaze directed at Elizabeth's wide eyes.

With a flurry of "Oh, of course!" Bill and the Lucas's departed into the main area of the house. Richard led Elizabeth though a small entryway to an attractive sitting room. "Do you like the house?" he asked pleasantly.

"It's gorgeous," Elizabeth answered.

"I'm trying to get my aunt to leave it to me," Richard said confidently.

"Why?"

"Because I would enjoy it more than my cousin," Richard grinned insolently.

"You'll never get it, Richard," a woman said in a bored voice. She had entered through a far door way and seemed to be passing through.

"Anne, this is Elizabeth," he said with emphasis on her name. The woman walked over to Elizabeth. "I'm Anne de Bourgh, it's nice to meet you." Elizabeth shook the woman's hand. She looked slightly older than Elizabeth, maybe thirty. She was attractively dressed in black and shook hands with Elizabeth in a calm, pleasant manner.

"I'll buy it from you Annie," Richard said in a teasing tone.

"Never," Anne said in a dismissive way and walked out.

"I could, you know," Richard said silkily into Elizabeth's ear, "Buy it. I'm that rich. Does that interest you?"

Elizabeth stepped away to regard him. "Not as much as it seems to interest you," she said evenly.

"Really Elizabeth?" He arched an eyebrow, "Wouldn't it interest you to know that I have more money than William?"

"William?"

"William Darcy?" He said as if that should be obvious, "The reason you are here tonight?" He placed his arm across her shoulder, "Oh, come now Elizabeth, don't be coy."

Elizabeth frowned, she had had enough of this. "Okay, you don't want coy? I'll be completely straight with you." She tried to step away but Richard held on, "I don't know why you are talking about William. I'm here because Mrs. de Bourgh, your aunt, invited me. I'm not interested in you or your money, and since we're not being coy, I'd say it was a pretty safe bet that you're not interested in me, either." She held his gaze.

"Very good, Elizabeth," he said graciously with a tilt of his head. "I can see why William would like you."

"That remains to be seen, now could you please take your arm off of me."

*****