Love's Awakening: A DARCY AND ELIZABETH BENNET VARIATION (Pride and Prejudice Variations) by Marsh Ada

Author:Marsh, Ada
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2023-11-02T00:00:00+00:00

7

"INTIMACY GROWS"

Dusk slowly settled across the grounds of Longbourn, softening the landscape into muted greys and blues. Elizabeth slipped quietly outside, breathing deeply of the cool evening air. The day's events had left her restless, and she sought solace away from the noisy chaos of her family home.

Wandering down a gravel path, she let her mind drift back to the surprising encounter with Mr. Darcy that morning. They had crossed paths quite unexpectedly while Elizabeth was walking and Mr. Darcy riding. After an awkward beginning, he had confessed the true depth of his feelings for her. The memory sent Elizabeth's emotions swirling again. Though she cared for him deeply, the obstacles facing a potential union still seemed insurmountable.

Lost in thought, Elizabeth did not notice the approaching footsteps until a twig cracked right behind her. She whirled in surprise to find the very object of her musings standing before her - Mr. Darcy.

"Mr. Darcy! You startled me." Elizabeth pressed a hand to her racing heart.

"My apologies, I did not mean to frighten you." He moved closer, his features etched with concern in the fading light. "Forgive the intrusion, but I saw you walking alone and wanted to ensure you were well."

Elizabeth managed a tremulous smile. "You are kind to be concerned, but there is no need. I often walk at this hour to enjoy the peace."

Mr. Darcy nodded, but continued scrutinizing her countenance. "Still, I sense something troubles you. Will you not share your burdens?" He hesitated, then added softly, "My dear Elizabeth."

Hearing her name uttered with such tenderness caused Elizabeth's breath to catch. She turned away in agitation, moving restlessly toward a nearby oak tree. Placing a hand against its rough trunk, she kept her eyes averted as she struggled to collect herself.

"You know my thoughts are in turmoil after the conversation we shared this morning," she finally replied. "I find myself unable to think of anything but..." She broke off helplessly.

"Anything but the question of our future together," Mr. Darcy finished gently as he came up behind her. The warmth of his tall frame so close made her shiver.

Elizabeth nodded wordlessly. She heard him sigh, the warmth of his breath stirring her hair.

"This weighs heavily on me as well. But know this..." Gently he turned her to face him, tilting her chin up until their eyes met in the deepening twilight. "Whatever you decide, my feelings for you shall remain constant. Even if we can only ever be dear friends, you will always hold my heart."

Tears stung Elizabeth's eyes at his earnest declaration. "Oh, Fitzwilliam..." His Christian name came unbidden to her lips. "I do not doubt your affections. It is the wider world that threatens to divide us."

He clasped her delicate hands between his larger ones. "You need not bear such burdens alone. We shall find a way forward together." Lifting one hand, he gently brushed a windblown strand of hair from her cheek. "Some solutions may require patience and creativity. But I am willing to do whatever is necessary to build a life with you.

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