Chapter 1 - A Letter Unbound

You were correct in your estimation of my feelings about your friend. My sister had been under the impression that he and I were deeply attached. My mother quickly heard wedding bells after your friend asked me to dance twice at the assembly. I should have said no to the second dance, but he offered before my mother. I admired him, certainly, to an extent, and I had nothing against your friend then (I do now), and I am sure I would have been an excellent wife to him had he asked. In light of his attentions, I had resigned myself to accepting his offer, should he have made one. 

Chapter 4

Mr Darcy Reads the Letter

Oh, good lord! What?

Darcy thought back to the incident at the dance in Meryton. He remembered that he sincerely did not want to be there. However, he did make an appearance out of respect for Bingley. It was his first social event in his new neighbourhood, and he wanted to support his friend. Truth be told, another inducement was also playing at hand – had he stayed behind at Netherfield, Miss Bingley would have tried to remain also. That was not going to happen under any circumstances! It was embarrassing enough that they were late because of her. She had feathers in her hair as if going to the opera in London, not that feathers were required there. Does she not know what people wear at village assemblies? Yes, he thought back, he was miserable at the assembly, but then he mostly was at any ball.

The memory of that evening struck him anew, sharper now for Jane Bennet's revelation. He recalled his own careless words, the curt dismissal uttered without thought. He had not even spared a glance at Miss Elizabeth then – what harm could there have been in refusing a dance?

So, she heard him…

Chapter 2

An Unlikely Endeavour

Certainly, she knew it was not proper for a lady to write to a single gentleman. Her old self most probably would have shied away from doing something so scandalous. Now, at the end of her London sojourn, she felt like a different person; well, she hoped she was.  

Chapter 5

Ices at Gunter's and Hard Truths

"My sister is many things: impulsive, stubborn, and feels everything too deeply, but she has convictions, and she is no fortune hunter. She rejected you because you hurt her pride, made a terrible first impression on her at the assembly and because of Mr Wickham's tales, and finally, the perceived wrong treatment of her beloved sister. She didn't even consider your offer for what it could have meant for her. Before you, she rejected an offer from our cousin who would inherit our home. That is Lizzy. Right or wrong… And after you called her a "degradation," you had no chance." She huffed.

Chapter 6

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Chapter 7

Confrontations and Confessions

"Truly, Lizzy, he is very sorry."

"What is he sorry about?"

"For one, he deeply regrets his unfortunate comment at the assembly. He did not realise that it hurt you. He said he did not even look at you properly; he just wanted Mr Bingley to leave him alone."

"How was I supposed to know he did not mean it?"

"Lizzy, we all say things we do not mean. Things we do not think through. I did tell you not to put weight on his unfortunate comment, but you did. Why? You know you are beautiful. And he asked you to marry him."

"He hurt me." She looked away and crossed her legs in front of her.

"All right, I am not making light of it. He hurt you; he knows that now. Lizzy, please see reason. As Charlotte and I have told you several times, you should let matters rest… Some issues need to be discussed or acknowledged between the two of you, if nothing else, for your peace of mind, for both of you."

"I did not think anything could come of it, so I did not pursue her. Then I saw her again a few weeks ago, and I could not stop thinking of her."

Georgina could not believe her ears. She blinked rapidly, trying to reconcile this confession with the brother she thought she knew.

"I proposed," her brother confessed, his voice tinged with a hint of vulnerability.

She gasped in shock. "You are to marry?"

"No," he shook his head and said, "She…rejected me." It was easier for him to say it this time. "We had a terrible argument."

"Oh, Brother, she rejected you?"

"She despises me."

"Despises you? How – why?" Georgiana's brows knit together in bewilderment, a faint smile playing on her lips. "To refuse you? I confess it speaks to her spirit, Brother. And yet, to despise you – surely there must be more to her heart than mere pride?" Her curiosity warred with disbelief, her brother's tale a mixture of the improbable and the fascinating. It was incredible enough that a woman would say no to her dear brother. He is handsome – clever and loyal and, fair and hardworking, and…handsome. Who would not want him? But to despise him? That is insupportable! 

Elizabeth

Chapter 8

At the Theatre – Much Ado About Nothing

Darcy stepped over to Jane. "How are you this evening?"

"Very well, thank you. This is a lovely treat. I have never seen a play from a box. I am extremely excited."

"I am glad to be of service," he bowed lightly. "It has a good viewing point. He moved his body so that they had some relative privacy. "I took your advice and talked to my sister," he said proudly.

"Really? I am so glad. How did it go?"

"We went to the park, and I told her everything, even… him."

"Very brave of you, sir."

"It was a bit awkward initially, but it became easier as I explained things to her. Then she asked me to tell her everything, and…the words just fell out of my mouth. I cannot tell you what it meant. For the first time, we talked about her situation. It was…cathartic. Thanks to you. Today was a series of lessons and revelations for me. Hard ones, but beneficial. I needed them." 

The Talk - chapter 9

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The Palmers

Pamela and Anthony

Chapter 10

Parlour Conversations - Jane and Darcy

He poured fruit wine for both of them and offered one glass to her. "We talked," he said simply.

"I thought so."

"I think it went well – the best it could have gone, at the moment. I apologised, and she accepted."

"Is that it?" She looked down as she asked this.

"Yes, I think it is better this way."

Jane nodded hesitantly. "You do not want to…?"

He sighed. "Life is a curious teacher, indeed. Perhaps some time may enable her to put the past aside and consider me anew. But her rejection has also opened my eyes. It has made me reflect on what I truly seek."

Darcy inclined his head slightly toward Jane, a glint of warmth in his gaze that held no expectations – just a quiet sincerity, something gentler, almost like contentment. Jane found herself both heartened and surprised by his openness, this softer side of him.

"I see. And how do you feel?"

"I think relieved is the right word. We both said what we needed to say. I believe she no longer hates me. At least there is that."

Chapter 11

Back in Their Own Worlds

Jane welcomed the familiar sights of her home. The warmth of her room, the blooming garden, her favourite old walnut tree, the exuberant noise of her family at mealtimes, the smell of Cook's kitchen. The newness of the old quickly wore off, however. She did not know what to do with herself. This new feeling she started to form in London burst forth with Mr Darcy's letter, and now the uniform days made them palpable. She did not find her place even if her father had waited for her to come home to do the ledgers (hers was the last entry). It was not conscious, but a feeling of restlessness, wondering, and great sighs prevailed. She felt a stirring as though her heart longed for horizons just beyond her reach. Even the late-night conversations with her sister were not satisfying. She did not feel she could share her intimate thoughts, especially since she was just beginning to understand them herself.

In the following weeks, Darcy oversaw significant business with renewed energy. He saw his lawyer, looked into several business ventures, including Mr Gardiner's, and met with his bank. Eventually, he decided on two new investments. He was of the opinion that one had to diversify. With industry rising, the gentry could no longer sit back and live just from the land. There was too much risk involved. One bad year could cripple an estate if not responsibly managed, and they had not built a financial cushion. He had heard many stories like that. Industry with machines introduced would have high earning potential. Those who did not recognise this would be left behind in this new emerging world.

Chapter 13 - Darcy talking to the Palmers

"When I took her home, I asked her what she thought of what happened at Hunsford. I must tell you that she did not mince her words. She was severe with me. Nobody had ever talked to me that way. The strange thing is that I took it in stride."

"Well, good, because that was badly done, Darcy," Anthony vented.

"Where did you learn to propose like that?" Pamela shook her head.

"I know that now; only then, I did not think. Anyway, in just one day, she helped me tremendously. Her insights were very logical, with hindsight. Then, she tried to make me make amends with her sister and maybe even start again, but the more I thought about it, the more I realised I had been too hasty. I had built Miss Elizabeth up in my mind to be this ideal woman for me while, in actuality, I knew little of her. The worst hit on my ego was that I had to realise that what I interpreted as her gentle flirting, she actually disliked me. She was deliberately…impertinent at times."

Chapter 13

Darcy's eyes drank in her features. She was an incredibly beautiful woman – even more so in this almost natural state. Darcy finally just swallowed.

Jane, as she stood there, could not believe her luck. To be seen in her messy work clothes, especially by Mr Darcy, was unthinkable, yet he was in front of her, staring at her. She valiantly tried to think of something to say. Taking back the plate, she managed to utter,

"Would – would you like one?"

Chapter 15 - Two Sisters

Jane's eyes grew wide. "What? How can you be sure?"

Elizabeth shrugged. "We spoke after you left to change."

Jane's voice was barely above a whisper. "You spoke? What did he say?"

"Yes. I was my usual impertinent self and confronted him about why he was here."

"Oh, no, Lizzy!" Jane gasped. "You did not." She tittered.

"But I did." Elizabeth straightened; she was proud of herself.

"What did he have to say? Did he say anything?"

Elizabeth's lips curled into a playful grin. "He likes you."

"Oh." Jane's hand flew to her chest, her breath catching. "He said that?"

"Aye.'' Elizabeth confirmed, watching her sister's reaction with amusement. 'He said that he liked every glimpse of your character."

Chapter 17

The Meeting of Minds
(And Hearts)

This time, I let my head lead in my quest over the heart. I am determined to teach it to love you as we get to know each other if you want that as well.

Miss Bingley

Th

Chapter 25 - The Guest List

Darcy was lost in his thoughts again. He could not help but imagine Jane on her horse, gracefully cantering next to him. He closed his eyes and let his mind wander, picturing the way her hair swayed in the wind after she took off her bonnet and the way her laughter filled the air as they rode together. He could almost feel the warmth of the sun on his skin and the breeze on his face as if he were transported back to that moment in time.

He felt reassured by their conversation. As they spent more time together, she began opening up and becoming more confident in her interactions with him. It was a joy to witness her growing boldness. He smiled wistfully as he recalled how she teased him. The memory of her laughing, gorgeous blue eyes made him tremble with excitement. He chuckled softly, remembering how effortlessly she had made him lose his composure earlier.

What do you dream about in your bed, my Jane?

Chapter 26 - Ready for 'Us'

A tremor coursed through Darcy as he closed the distance between them. Her eyes fluttered shut, invited him in, and with a gulp of nervous anticipation, he surrendered to the moment. Their lips met in a tender, tentative kiss, a mere brush that sent a jolt of electricity through both of them. It was a soft, exploratory touch, filled with the promise of something more. Darcy pulled back slightly, teasing her with his mouth before kissing her again, this one deeper, more assured.  

Walton and Elizabeth, Ch. 38

Elizabeth halted, surprised by the sudden appearance. The man seemed impatient, his eyes scanning the room as if searching for someone. Then, those eyes – sharp, piercing, and strikingly blue – locked onto hers. For a moment, she felt rooted to the spot, her hands trembling slightly, and her throat felt dry. The intensity of his gaze unsettled her. She was suddenly acutely aware of her dishevelled appearance, dressed for kitchen work and hardly presentable for such a meeting with those gorgeous eyes.

His piercing gaze swept over her, assessing her from head to toe. Elizabeth's stomach tightened with a confusing mix of embarrassment and indignation. His sharp blue eyes assessed her with curiosity and impatience. Before she could fully process her feelings, she heard his voice – smooth yet commanding – from what felt like a great distance.

"Hey, you there! Where's everyone? What are you standing there for? Take my hat and gloves at once." He spoke with a flicker of impatience.

Darcy in the kitchen

"Mr Darcy, Master." Mrs Jenkins followed Jane's eyes and spoke with a shaking voice while she tried to curtsy with a chicken in her hands. "What can we do for you, sir?"

"Oh, do not mind me. I've just come to see how Miss Bennet was doing. Is she not underfoot?" He asked playfully.

Jane produced a fake, upset face.

He laughed.

"Oh, no, sir! She's been a true blessing together with Miss Elizabeth. They've been working hard. I've never known gentle ladies to have such skills – more should. She has a few interesting recipes as well."

"I am glad to hear that. I've tasted her shortbread. What are you making, Miss Bennet?" He stepped closer, examined her bowl, and poked the substance in interest.

She giggled. "I am making scones. This is flour and fat. I have to mix it well together."

"Fat?" Darcy asked in confusion as he better examined it.

"Yes, you can't see it because I've already worked it in. The solid fat serves two purposes: it is a barrier and creates crumbliness. Do you like your scone to be nice and fluffy?"

Darcy nodded.

"Well, if one does this well, the fat pockets will melt in the oven and leave empty air pockets behind. That is how you can tear the scone apart so beautifully."

Darcy looked at her in awe. "And you know all this?"

Jane nodded with laughing eyes. 

Ch. 41

Darcy observed his friend.

Walton drew a sharp breath, the air catching in his chest as though he'd stumbled upon a vision. His hand moved instinctively to his waistcoat, steadying himself against an inexplicable rush of emotion. She descended the staircase with the poise of a queen, yet her slight hesitation betrayed a vulnerability that tugged at something deep within him. He could not tear his eyes away. Was it possible that the woman he had mistaken for a servant hours ago now held his entire focus, her presence commanding the room without effort?

A dark-haired beauty descended the stairs in slow motion. Or was it just him? While her sister was tall and blonde, this poetry of a woman was petite and dark; even her skin had a healthy sunburned tone. Did she like to be outdoors? His treacherous heart wanted to know. Pay attention, man; no time to fantasise! She was looking at him. She was examining his eyes. Oh, no! Was she afraid? She looked like someone ready to bolt. He forced a smile on his face to appear welcoming. He could only hope it was not an awkward grimace.

Ch. 42

The friends were quite inseparable in the early days of the house party. The reunion was not just a gathering but a return to the camaraderie and shared memories of their younger years. They delighted in being together again. That meant that their mentality reversed somewhat back to their university years. After the ladies retired the first evening, they went to the terrace and chatted. Somehow, they ended up at the bank of the lake singing Cambridge student songs and a Scottish ballad with all its gusto at the end. The echoes of their laughter and spirited singing carried across the water, drawing curious glances from some of the house's late-night staff. One of the footmen, observing from a distance waiting on them, remarked to another, "It's rare to see Mr Darcy so…unguarded." The younger servant nodded, a bit awed by the sight of their usually composed master laughing freely.

Ch. 42

At Pemberley, they used the ballroom, and the ladies spied on them, cheering one or the other. The men, catching sight of their audience, became even more theatrical in their movements, occasionally adding a flourish that was more for show than strategy.

Elizabeth leaned closer to Jane. "Do you think they know we're judging them?"

Jane laughed softly. "Judging? More like admiring, I'd say."

As if he had heard, Lord Morgan, with a dramatic bow and exaggerated lunge, drew a wave of laughter from the ladies.

When Jane joined the ladies in this activity, she had to support herself at the sight of Darcy taking on Lord Morgan. Both moved with swift ballet movements. It all seemed like a strange dance to her. She focused on Darcy and marvelled at his body's effortless movements. The smooth precision of his parries and the quiet intensity in his eyes made her chest tighten. She realised she was holding her breath. Later, she told him that he was observed. It was a familiar experience to see him demure at her praise. That evening, Jane reflected on the unexpected sight of her fiancé so completely in his element. There was an elegance to his movements that spoke of discipline and grace. Yet, his quiet satisfaction at her words revealed a man capable of vulnerability – a combination she found both surprising and endearing.

By the end of the house party, the ladies were open observers at the open doors as the older generation entirely gave up on them, and the men in their shirtsleeves were spurred to show off their skills.  

Georgiana and Morgan, Ch. 49

Georgiana stiffened slightly but quickly recovered and nodded.

Lord Morgan noticed and put the information in the back of his mind.

"This May, we spent a few lovely days at Mr Palmer's property in Devon. Based on what I have seen, it is a beautiful county. Much warmer than here."

"Yes, it is. My property is in Devon as well. What a coincidence! Well, I bought this property close to the beach… There is sand and rock, simply breathtaking if you ask me. I found it so enchanting that I decided to keep it for myself. The land is not enormous, only what we need for a large garden and a house farm. The climate is such there… it is like a bit of paradise. My gardener suggested that we try to nurture some exotic plants there, and now I even grow bananas there – and not in a hothouse[1]!"

"Really? Banana? Does it grow on trees?" Georgiana asked, intrigued.

Morgan nodded.

[1] At the coast in Devon, in some places, the climate is indeed different, little micro climates, allowing to grow even bananas.

Georgiana and Morgan

A little further away, Georgiana was putting the final touches on her painting. She liked the activity and was good at it despite still learning. Her simple style used definite colours and shades, which worked well. Lord Morgan approached, and their eyes met. Then, the Lord cleared his throat and looked at her picture and the original spectacle.

"It is a handsome sight, is it not?"

Georgiana nodded and concentrated on signing the picture.

"You have done it justice."

Georgiana hesitated, unsure how to respond to the compliment. Lord Morgan's presence was both unnerving and strangely reassuring. "Thank you, my lord," she murmured, her gaze darting to her sketch. "I enjoy painting – it is a calming pastime."

"And a talent," he added softly. 

Jane and Darcy

This

Ch. 46

The next few days went by quickly.

Sunday, after church, the party had a picnic behind the tennis court. The men played lawn tennis while the ladies cheered on, although some did not understand the rules. The ladies enjoyed the spectacle, especially as the men wore shirtsleeves as it was a hot day.

Afterwards, Walton showed Elizabeth and Esther how to hit the ball, and she and Esther hit the ball for a while, back and forth with great laughter. Walton cheered from the edges, giving instructions that usually fell on deaf ears. They soon learned it was not enough to hit the ball with force; it also had to be directed downward. This was proven when Elizabeth hit the ball with all her might, and it took the footmen ten minutes to find it. 

Jane and Elizabeth in the library

Darcy stood up to step into the library. As he opened the connecting door, he found his fiancé and her favourite sister-to-be on the steps of the ladder, curiously deeply occupied in searching for some book. The sight arrested him. They worked in tandem.

"I cannot see anything, Lizzy," Jane murmured, squinting at the shelves.

"Neither can I. John Lucas swore this was where one might find such books," Elizabeth replied, exasperation creeping into her tone.

"I hope nobody comes in just now; I would die of embarrassment if they found out what we are looking for. What shall we do?"

"Let's exchange places. Maybe a fresh look is needed," Lizzy suggested. They awkwardly started swapping places on the ladder, which was too much for Darcy.

"Just what are you two looking for?" He asked them. His appearance behind them was so sudden that the two busy occupants of the ladder half lost their balance. Darcy had to steady Jane.

Finally Alone

"Is this room truly mine?" She turned to Darcy in the middle of the room.

Darcy went to her.

"You are Mrs Darcy, are you not?"

Jane nodded several times enthusiastically.

"Then these rooms are yours. That is the door to your changing room, and that leads to mine. You may redecorate it as you like."

"Maybe one day. For now, I shall enjoy it as it is." She had a dreamy expression of delight on her face.

He leaned in and kissed her. Jane responded, and the gesture turned into an intimate encounter.

"Oh, Jane," he moaned softly. Darcy licked his lips, trying to taste Jane's kiss. Jane would not have it. They melted into one. Jane, more unrestricted now with Darcy, raised her hand and buried it in Darcy's hair. She unconsciously pulled on his hair, and in answer to that, he pulled her to him, embracing her fully. He parted his lips and let his tongue wander into Jane's mouth, and Jane opened herself and met Darcy in the ancient dance. She trembled in Darcy's arms as their tongues caressed each other. She forgot to breathe in her eagerness, so she had to tear herself away after some time. Breathing hard, Darcy whispered,

"I am the luckiest of men." He shook his head.