Bingley's Deception Read online

  “I have to meet with my solicitor this afternoon to review the paperwork for our wedding, but I am available this morning to escort my wonderful ladies.” Darcy took Elizabeth’s hand; he wanted to have a physical connection with his bride. “Will you permit me to join your shopping adventure? We could have lunch at Gunther’s, and then I will need to leave for my appointment.”

  Elizabeth looked into her fiancé’s eyes. “I would appreciate your advice on obtaining my trousseau. Your support will help me maintain my emotional balance today. It is still too fresh; I will accept any kindness that I can receive.”

  “Our entire family will support you.” Uncle Henry promised. “From now on you will address us as your family. I am Uncle Henry. My wife is Aunt Adeline. My sons are Jonathon and Richard. We do not use titles with our family.”

  With tears in her eyes, “Thank you, Uncle Henry. All of you have been so wonderful to me. Please, will all of you call me Lizzy?” Elizabeth gave a real smile for the first time since her attack. “You make me feel so welcomed. I appreciate all that you are doing to make me a part of your family.”

  “To help show our support, when Darcy leaves for his appointment, Jonathon and I have decided to take up the escort. Send a footman home when you prepare to leave the modiste, and we will all meet at Gunther’s. Then we will be available to escort our ladies until dinner.” Richard wanted to know more about the lady that claimed his cousin's heart. “I plan on attending your wedding, whether it is here or at Pemberley.”

  “We will show the ton how happy we are that you are joining our family. Do not fear the ton; they will fear us. If anyone makes a comment about Miss Bingley, we will either ignore it or state that we no longer acknowledge an acquaintance with her.” Jonathon pronounced, proud that their family supported each other. “We protect our family, Lizzy you are now a member of our family.”

  The morning appointments demonstrated familial unity to society. With the Countess and Viscount in the party, all the matrons and debutantes held their opinions of the lady at Darcy’s side. At Gunther’s, Mrs. Louisa Hurst noticed their party as they entered. She did not approach them. She had received her brother’s letter that morning. Embarrassed, she left Gunther’s as soon as she could without drawing attention to herself. It was time to visit her husband’s country estate. They might stay there for a couple of years before attempting to rejoin society in London. Mr. Hurst will be furious with this arrangement, but they would need to leave soon before the Darcys and Fitzwilliams decide to publicly cut all of Caroline’s relatives, including her and her husband. How could Caroline do this to their family?

  The gentlemen changed, but the ladies continued shopping. The modiste was able to take the order for Lizzy’s entire trousseau, including her winter wear for Derbyshire. When Darcy departed, the ladies still needed to head to the cobblers and furriers. Elizabeth was handling the curiosity of the ton well, but Darcy noticed the strain in her eyes. He kissed her hand and whispered his love before departing for his appointment. Jonathon promised to take care of his bride; then they left Gunther’s for the last two stores of the day. The family would return to Matlock House for dinner that evening. Darcy would meet them there once his appointments were finalized.

  Chapter Thirteen: A Royal Summons

  When the family returned from shopping, a letter was waiting for Lizzy. She promised that she would delay handling the responses until Darcy was present. She would need his support while reading the replies. He arrived just before dinner.

  “Her Royal Highness, Princess Victoria requests the presence of Miss Elizabeth Bennet for tea tomorrow. She is required to bring her betrothed and his family to Kensington Palace at three.” Lizzy read the letter out loud to the Fitzwilliams. She was turning to her new family. “Please come with me. I am afraid that her father will have me exiled, even though he has always been nice to me.”

  “We will all attend. No one turns down a royal request.” Uncle Henry was interested to see if the Royals would support a lady they claimed as a friend. “It is time for us to prepare appropriate outfits for the palace. We will need to be on our best behavior. Richard, you will be watched.”

  “Thank you, father, for demonstrating that I am your favorite as always.” Richard winked at his father, then kissing Elizabeth’s hand. “Lizzy, I will behave, at least until you know me better.”

  “I appreciate your restraint, Richard,” Lizzy stated giggling. “I believe that I will need to see your seamstress to determine if any of the dresses have been altered that I can wear tomorrow. Aunt Adeline, I would appreciate your advice on which dress I should wear to the palace.”

  “Are there any more stores that need to be patronized tomorrow?” Darcy asked, hoping that he could spend more time with Elizabeth alone. “I know that you did well today. Aunt, I also know that you had plans for attending the theater to demonstrate your support publicly. What day was that planned for?”

  “I had hoped to attend tomorrow evening or Wednesday at the latest. We can plan for that and mention it to the royal family. If they appear and address Elizabeth personally, that will end any problems with London society.”

  Uncle Henry wanted to know about the relationship. “Lizzy you have stated that Princess Victoria is your best friend. You grew up with her. Would she address you socially in the past? Were you seen together here in London?”

  “In Meryton, she and I were inseparable when they were in residence. I never saw her publicly when I was in London. My aunt and uncle live on Gracechurch Street. People in trade do not generally socialize with royalty. Each time I was here, Father Edward would arrange for me to be taken from the Gardiners home to the palace in an unmarked carriage. Then Victoria’s family would take me back to Longbourn and remain at Netherfield for several weeks.” Lizzy explained her past travel plans. “Since I was sent to the palace the evening before returning to Longbourn, we did not attend any public functions. I was proud to have been introduced to Victoria’s grandmother two years ago.”

  “You have met Queen Charlotte?” Jonathon was curious, most people who met the royals bragged about the connection yet Lizzy knew them intimately and did not say anything. “We know that your connections are stronger than ours. Darcy, why did you not marry this woman immediately? She is a gem. She knows the royal family, but does not brag about it.” Jonathon kissed Elizabeth’s hand. “Thank you for allowing us to join your family. Are you sure that you want to marry my cousin, I am single, and I possess a title?”

  “I believe it is time for me to escort my cousins back to Darcy House. I am afraid that they will try to win my intended away from me if I allow them to remain.” Darcy growled at his wayward cousin. “Please walk me out Elizabeth.” Pulling her to the sitting room, Darcy embraced her. “Are you all right? If you receive a reply from your relatives, please wait for me so we can read it together. I should be receiving a letter from Bingley soon. I will read it with you, not before.” Gaining her acceptance, Darcy kissed his bride then left with his cousins for the evening.

  The next morning, the family met for breakfast at Matlock House. Darcy brought Bingley’s letter.

  Darcy,

  I apologize again for my sister’s behavior and how it affected both you and Miss Elizabeth. Once you left, I had Caroline brought down to confront her. She believed that you would give up Miss Elizabeth and save Caroline through marriage. Nothing I said seemed to penetrate her visions of her future. She even had an entire scenario she created where you proposed, and I agreed to the marriage. I sent for our family doctor; his diagnosis determined that Caroline is mentally deficient. She has been transported to Bedlam where she will remain permanently.

  Before leaving Meryton, I visited Longbourn to speak to Mr. Bennet. I explained Caroline’s diagnosis, hoping that this would remove the taint of Miss Elizabeth’s ruin from herself and her family. Mr. Bennet listened to what I said, but refused to make any comments. He had the family Bible on his desk, tracing where he had scratched out Miss
Elizabeth’s name from the document.

  Since I was unable to convince him to change his mind, I then visited the merchants in Meryton. I explained to them about my sister’s diagnosis. None seemed to want to bring the Bennet’s back into society. Many were happy to have the mother and younger sisters remaining at home rather than attend their functions. I am sorry, Darcy, it seems that several of the members of society have grudges against Mrs. Bennet.

  Another concern is Caroline’s dowry. As she has damaged Miss Elizabeth, I would like your advice. I want to make amends by giving some of Caroline’s money to Miss Elizabeth. I had thought to split the funds between the Bennet sisters, but I would rather give the money to Miss Elizabeth since none of her family came to her rescue.

  I am leaving society until the scandal has died down. I am currently heading to Scarborough, to speak to my family directly. I am considering heading to the New World to help further the family business until the scandal surrounding my family has settled. If you reply to my letter, I will continue to write. I understand if my sister’s actions are too unsupportable to remain in contact with me.

  I wish you all the best,

  Charles

  As there was no change in their plans, the Matlock family visited the two shops they discussed the previous day, then returned home for lunch. They needed to be ready to leave for the palace soon. A letter addressed to the Countess of Matlock was waiting for Aunt Adeline in her chambers. Princess Victoria required that Elizabeth’s wedding dress be brought to the palace. She intended to save her best friends reputation that day but needed the Countess’ assistance and secrecy. Lady Matlock pulled the chord, requesting the seamstress come to her room. The wedding dress' alterations had been finished that morning. It was carefully packed and placed inside the Matlock carriage. Their family would need two carriages to transport seven adults. The footmen were charged with putting the trunk in the boot and securing it with their lives. Lady Matlock smiled, knowing that the Darcys would be a formidable family, especially with royal assistance.

  Chapter Fourteen: Royal Intervention

  Elizabeth provided the introductions between her best friend and her new family. Princess Victoria hugged her friend. “Elizabeth, I have been hearing some interesting stories from my tenants and friends.” Prince Edward observed his daughters’ friend. “You left Meryton in disgrace two days ago. Now I hear that you are marrying Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy of Derbyshire.”

  “Yes, that is my plan, sir.” Elizabeth worried about the next question. “Do you know what happened?”

  “Mr. Evans and Mrs. Jones sent messages yesterday morning, dear. They explained how my tenants were behaving poorly. You know that Evans has been charged with sending me any important information that he deems necessary.” Prince Edward walked over and held out his hand to Elizabeth. “I have been told of the original claim. I have been informed about how your family responded. If Mr. Darcy had not intervened, you would have been brought here to become my daughter’s first lady in waiting.”

  “Oh, Father Edward, thank you for watching out for me,” Elizabeth claimed as Prince Edward hugged her. “You do know that there is no truth in Miss Bingley’s claim. Mr. Darcy never offered for her. She was jealous and mentally unbalanced.”

  “Yes, I know the truth. Her doctor installed her into Bedlam last evening. She will not be able to harm you anymore.” Edward declared, wanting to ensure that he did not blame Lizzy for any of the problems. “Now, Victoria has a plan to restore your reputation. Do you still intend on marrying Mr. Darcy?”

  “I love him, Father Edward. We may not have known each other very long. However, we do truly love each other. He was going to propose the morning after the assembly, then the gossip was exposed, and I had to be removed from Meryton.” Elizabeth ensured her second family that she was happy with her arrangements. “Victoria, what is your plan? Will my family’s reputations also be restored?”

  “Yes, Liz. I will ensure all of Longbourn is restored. Will you return to revisit Meryton?” Victoria grabbed her friend and moved her closer to the door.

  “I cannot return at this time. Maybe in a few years, I will be able to return for a visit.” Lizzy paused, looking at her friend. “What is your plan, Vic?”

  “You must come with me to my rooms. I need you to prepare. My father has asked for the pleasure of giving you away at your wedding. Since my grandmother and grandfather were available this afternoon, the wedding will take place in thirty minutes.” Princess Victoria declared, knowing that Elizabeth would be unsure of her reception. “We are your family. My father and I will also be at the theater this evening. Your entire family will be our special guests. The production begins at half past seven. You will not be able to begin your honeymoon until tomorrow.”

  “Lord Matlock, will you bring the groom and his supporters with me. Your cousin, the Archbishop of Lancaster, brought the wedding license. We have asked him to officiate the wedding ceremony.” Prince Edward clarified the plans to the Fitzwilliams and Darcys. “Gentlemen, please follow me. My parents, King George III and Queen Charlotte are already seated for the ceremony.”

  The Fitzwilliams and Darcys were overwhelmed with Elizabeth’s friendship. They did not realize that they would be honored with meeting the king and queen today. Prince Edward performed the essential introductions. Queen Charlotte wanted to know more about Pemberley. “Tell me about Elizabeth’s future home. Will there be rooms there for my granddaughter? She will want to keep appraised of her closest friend’s welfare.”

  “Your Highness, I would offer an open invitation to your entire family. Any time that you feel the inclination, we would welcome you to our home.” Darcy promised, happy that the Royals were loyal to his bride. “Thank you for saving her reputation. Elizabeth loves her family. She is innocent of the accusations made against her. More importantly, we love each other.”

  Elizabeth was escorted by the man she called her second father, Prince Edward. Princess Victoria stood as Elizabeth’s attendant. The ceremony was completed in thirty minutes. The Fitzwilliams and Darcys were sent home at the end of the ceremony. Victoria reminded them to arrive by seven at the theater. There would be a celebration afterward at the palace. “One more thing, I have already sent a notice regarding your wedding to the newspapers. It will appear in tonight’s edition first, then also in the morning papers. I have worded the statement to end all gossip and restore your family honor.” Victoria hugged Elizabeth one last time. “I will see you tonight, Mrs. Darcy.”

  Chapter Fifteen: Wedding Night

  Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, Esq. married Miss Elizabeth Bennet this afternoon at Kensington Palace. Her special friend Princess Victoria attended Miss Elizabeth as she was given away by Prince Edward, Duke of Kent. Mr. Darcy was attended by his cousins Jonathon Fitzwilliam, Viscount Newbury, and Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, from the Horse Guard. King George III and Queen Charlotte witnessed the ceremony while Archbishop of Lancaster officiated. The party intends to celebrate the event with a trip to the theater, then a late dinner at Buckingham Palace. Many members of the royal family will attend the celebration.

  “Well dear, I believe that your reputation has been saved.” Aunt Adeline declared proudly. “Expect more royal invitations in the future.”

  As Elizabeth’s clothes were currently at Matlock House, Darcy sent for his valet. He would prepare for the theater with his bride and their family. Knowing that he had to behave until after the theater, the newlyweds were only given a few moments of privacy in the carriage. Aunt Adeline had received a trunk when leaving Kensington, in it held a dress for Elizabeth to wear that evening. There was also a royal tiara for Elizabeth to borrow for the occasion.

  Janet, Lady Matlock’s maid, helped prepare Elizabeth for the evening. William and the gentlemen were waiting at the base of the stairs for their ladies. Georgiana walked down with Elizabeth. Darcy could not look away. She was beautiful, and she was his wife. Taking her hand, Darcy guided her down the stairs. “You are breatht
aking Mrs. Darcy. I am honored to be your husband.”

  Kissing his cheek, “I am just as honored to be your wife, Mr. Darcy.” Lizzy was escorted to the carriage and handed in. “We will only have a few moments alone. William, are you good with all the changes that have taken place in the past few days? We both have experienced much in a short time.”

  William kissed his bride, “I know that I have to behave until after our celebration tonight, but I need to touch you.” William took his wife’s hands and turned her to look at him, “Are you good with the transformation in your life? Your life has been modified drastically in just a few days. You left your home and family to be with me. Is everything well with you?”

  Staring into her husband’s eyes, “yes, I am well. I knew that living near home was never an option. I fell in love with you at the bookstore. I wanted to be near you, but each time we were together, Caroline Bingley kept intruding.” Lizzy blushed as she looked down. Taking his hand for comfort, she continued. “Then she destroyed my world, but you were there to help rebuild it. I will always love you. Please, we need to behave tonight at the theater, but when we go home, will you hold me as a husband holds his wife?”

  “Yes, I will be your husband in all ways when we return to Darcy House.” William gently lifted her head to look into her eyes. “Now, let us greet your friends and our family.” The carriage had arrived in front of the theater. Many members of the ton were waiting to see whom Darcy had married. Did he marry to get close to the royal family? Was that why he had no interest in any of the debutantes from society?

  Princess Victoria took Elizabeth’s hand when she arrived at the royal box. Hugging her friend then Victoria turned and allowed Darcy to kiss her hand so that all those assembled at the theater were witnesses. Prince Edward joked with the Fitzwilliams and Darcys. The entire group looked very comfortable, as old friends and family should. Elizabeth and Georgiana were protected from the salacious women of the ton by remaining with Victoria and Lady Matlock during the performance breaks. None of the debutantes would dare to be rude to Mrs. Darcy when she was an intimate friend of the Royals.