Page 136 of Elizabeth Makes a Decision
The clergyman began again, the familiar words seemed to wash over her. When the time came for the vows, Darcy’s voice was steady. When her turn came, she was grateful to remember them.
The question was asked. “If any of you know cause, or just impediment, why these two persons should not be joined together in holy matrimony, ye are to declare it.”
Elizabeth became aware, for a brief moment, of Lady Catherine’s presence, and was quietly relieved when no interruption came.
Soon, it was done, and they were married.
She felt excited, relieved, and, to be honest, a little afraid. Yet when Darcy drew her into his arms and kissed her, then smiled down at her, she knew that though everything might not always be easy, they would meet it together.
The register was then signed, with Elizabeth and Darcy standing as witnesses to Jane’s marriage. Jane and Mr. Bingley, in turn, added their names as witnesses.
Before long, they were entering Darcy’s carriage, while Jane and Mr. Bingley followed in his.
Darcy held Elizabeth’s hand, and before long, he drew her closer and kissed her. It was difficult to think clearly when he kissed her. Even so, she was aware that he took care not todisturb her gown or disarrange her hair. It would never do to arrive in disorder.
Soon, she had forgotten every lingering concern.
***
Elizabeth and Darcy stood outside the ballroom at Darcy House, with Jane and Mr. Bingley beside them, waiting for Simmons to announce their arrival.
The doors were opened, and Simmons declared in a firm voice, “Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, and Mr. and Mrs. Bingley.”
The ballroom had been transformed. Dozens of tables were arranged for the guests, with a larger table set at the front for the bridal party. Each table was adorned with tall arrangements of flowers. Elizabeth suspected Lady Matlock had emptied half the florists in London.
Servants moved steadily among the tables, carrying platters of food. Elizabeth smiled to see Georgiana nearby, composed as she quietly directed the servants.
Darcy escorted her to the head table, and they took their seats. Jane and Mr. Bingley joined them.
Mr. Bingley leaned toward Darcy. “My dear fellow, Lady Matlock has been exceedingly industrious. There is enough here to feed half London.”
Darcy allowed himself a faint smile. “I should not doubt it.”
He then turned toward Elizabeth, his expression warm. “And how do you find yourself, Mrs. Darcy?”
Elizabeth returned his smile. “Very well. Though I can scarcely believe it is all quite real. I do wonder when you intend to tell me where we are to go on our wedding tour.”
He took her hand and pressed a light kiss upon it. “If I tell you now, it will cease to be a surprise.”
She laughed softly. “That is very cruel. However, I shall overlook it for the present.”
When the meal had concluded, Darcy and Elizabeth rose and began to move among the tables, offering their thanks to the assembled guests.
They first approached the table where Lady Catherine, Anne, and Mr. Denham were seated with Mr. and Mrs. Bennet.
Mrs. Bennet was speaking animatedly to Darcy about the beauty of the ceremony. He listened with patient attention, and Elizabeth could not help but smile at the sight.
She inclined her head toward Lady Catherine. “Thank you for your assistance.”
Lady Catherine returned the inclination. “It is not what I would have chosen. However, I think you will do very well as Mrs. Darcy.”
Elizabeth’s smile was faint but sincere. “I am obliged to you, Lady Catherine.”
Lady Catherine gave a small nod, as though the matter were now entirely settled.
They continued on, greeting the remaining guests, until they came to Mr. and Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley.
Mrs. Hurst smiled. “The ceremony was most elegant, and the wedding breakfast is the finest I have ever seen.”
