AN: I really appreciate your feedback and love that you are enjoying the story!

THANK YOU for your patience. Please don't hate me for taking so long. Some of this chapter wrote itself while the rest… well… I decided to post what I had so far rather than continue working this chapter for the next week because, as many of you pointed out; it has been forever since I posted because of my travels which took me across California, Oregon, Florida and the Bahamas... Enjoy!

Ch. 42 – Faith and Fortune

Elizabeth was beginning to feel excited about the evening to come. She imagined the candles flickering and the dancing shadows cast against the wall as she discreetly held her Fitzwillam's hand and gazed into his eyes. Perhaps they might sit close enough during the performance at the theatre to touch or enjoy a caress or two beneath the table at dinner; the thought brought color to her cheeks and caused her to bite her lip to hide the discomfiture for her wayward mind.

The gentleman of her thoughts smiled and bowed before her when he arrived, oblivious to the other occupants of the room, and produced a small array of flowers and pins. It certainly was a night for gift giving. For a split second she felt disappointed that she had nothing for anyone in return, however the feeling did not last long since her betrothed looked so pleased with his surprise gift and gratified by her appearance.

"It is beautiful," she said.

"I am glad you approve. The florist said you might pin it to your gown."

She looked doubtful at her dress, not wishing to prick holes in the velvet. Instead she attached the petite white flowers to the ribbon tied below her breasts. "Will this do, William?" He replied with a dimpled smile and lifted her hand to bestow a kiss to her wrist.

Jane appeared to be similarly thanking Bingley as Mrs. Gardiner looked on her nieces with a happy expression.

"Lizzy," Mrs. Bennet's voice preceded her down the stairs, "Let me look at you before Mr. Darcy comes. What do you …" Entering the drawing room with her hat in hand, she stopped surprised that her future sons had already arrived. "Oh! Never mind, you look alright I suppose. Jane you look angelic this evening! Did you just get those flowers?" Jane smiled, and would have answered had her mother not continued to fuss over her daughters.

The young couples listened to Mrs. Bennet respectfully for another minute more before welcoming Mr. Gardiner's interruption. "Sister, we should be on our way. Let us try to enjoy a calm evening, shall we?" Several pairs of eyes communicated their gratitude as preparations were made to depart.

Darcy was hard pressed to remain silent when his future mother-in-law rebuffed his beloved so openly. His jaw clenched painfully in an effort not to cause a scene. Elizabeth looked up to him once he assisted with her wrap silently and efficiently. It had been his want to linger over the office to share a smile or caress, which he failed to do while controlling his agitation. She was able to calm him with a quiet word and a squeeze to his fingers. "I have faith that all will be well."

The dinner party was at the Graham residence which offered a lovely panorama of Kensington Gardens that visitors had the pleasure to view as carriages lined the drive. Ladies were seen to adjust wraps, hats and gloves once they were handed down to the walkway and escorted to the open doorway to greet their hosts. The drive and house was already alight by lanterns and candles even though the sun had not yet fully set.

Elizabeth and Jane were awed by the number of couples mulling about the entry and ballroom. They had never before been to such an extravagant dinner party. There was a quartet of string instruments set in a corner of the ballroom and several round tables were artfully arranged beneath three large hanging chandeliers. An arrangement of seating was positioned conveniently close to the musicians for guests to enjoy. An open doorway on the other side of the grand room opened to what appeared to be a sitting room set for cards.

When Jane asked why the elaborate event was not simply called a ball, it was explained by Darcy that he understood the Grahams did hold balls in the past; however as they advanced in years, have come to appreciate social occasions that did not last past the ten o'clock hour. "It is widely known in town, that when you provide lively music and offer a space for the assembled to dance, then guests are disposed to stay until the sun rises the next day."

Jane could appreciate the sentiments of an older couple who still wished to entertain. Though she did not understand why guests would impose on their hosts longer than they were welcome, she said as much as she wandered toward the musicians with Bingley.

Matching servants carried trays offering glasses of refreshments. Darcy had just accepted a crystal goblet for himself and his betrothed when they were approached by Lady Matlock and the Earl. They were both pleased to see Darcy and Elizabeth.

"Elizabeth, you look lovely dear," Lady Matlock exclaimed. "I understand that we are to sit at the table in the center. Have you heard any of the gossip? There is a great deal of interest in the character of a young lady named, Elizabeth Bennet. Do you agree that she is a descendant from an old royal line? I wonder why that bit of new was not disclosed in the announcement placed in the papers." Elizabeth looked incredulous and rolled her eyes at the Lady's chuckle.

"Do not tell me that you are buying into such talk? My Lady, I had such hopes that you would smother the natter, not encourage it!"

"Not I!" Lady Matlock said opening her fan with a snap, unsuccessfully hiding her smile behind the lace.

Darcy spoke then, "Aunt, I beg you to cease your efforts and good intentions; allow the gossip to quiet so another scandal may be talked of."

The Earl leaned into his wife and in a hushed voice said, "Take care, Dearest. I am afraid that you will not be welcome at Pemberley during her confinement if you do not."

Lady Matlock was amused. Darcy closed his eyes and flushed while Elizabeth's eyes grew large and alarmed. "Forgive me. Richard, you should not say such things. I would hate for someone to overhear and misinterpret your nonsense. Although, it might be amusing if there were several accounts about the couple being bandied about in the case of a scandal; no one would know the truth in reality save those involved. It is lucky that there is not one." The smile she bestowed on Elizabeth communicated her hope to be included in the future for the blessed event that would extend the family; her husband interrupted any further comment by guiding them on to greet friends.

Elizabeth turned to Darcy then, "You consider your betrothal a scandal, Mr. Darcy?"

He was quick to assure her of the contrary, "Indeed not, my love. I consider our betrothal very well and often. I am, however, certain that society can find other events and people to discuss if given the opportunity. I would not like to draw attention; even if I had a title I should hope that society could mind their own."

"That could be rather nice. 'Sir Darcy' or 'Lord Darcy,' perhaps 'Darcy, Your Grace,'" Elizabeth tapped her chin as if in deep thought, "and I shall be your Lady, My Lord."

Darcy enjoyed Elizabeth's teasing and resulting joyful smile, replied, "Indeed. You can playact as my Lady whenever you desire and call me thus. I would never suspend your pleasure, nor my own. Though honestly, I must discourage you from wishing for any distinguished title, for I would be called after the estate and not Darcy. 'Pemberley' is quite the mouthful and, in my opinion, not masculine enough a name for myself." Elizabeth's laughter rang out and warmed his heart making him selfishly wish that they could enjoy the conversation in private; later he would dream of her sighing in his ear calling him 'my lord.'

The evening progressed quickly. Darcy introduced her to a few acquaintances and the music floating in the air offered a comforting backdrop for conversation. Elizabeth noted a few sneers aimed at her; feeling compelled, she asked Lady Matlock quietly about it after the second course. The Lady looked amused, "Elizabeth you are very much envied and therefore spurned. There are several ladies in attendance who have daughters or granddaughters of marriageable age. I dare say that your own mother would act likewise, if her daughters were not soon to marry. As it happens, she is well aware that she is also envied and likely marked as a hero among the wishful mamas."

Mrs. Bennet sat between Jane and Mrs. Gardiner who were successful in tempering her enthusiasm during the seven course dinner. Mrs. Bennet did cause Elizabeth's blush later in the evening when she took her daughter's arm and literally towed her across the room. Elizabeth had been discussing favorite gardens with Lady Matlock and the Duchess of Rutland when Mrs. Bennet excused her excitedly.

"Come Lizzy, I want to hear what she has to say!" Elizabeth was bemused and a little embarrassed. She had been forced to abandon a conversation with her future aunt; looking around, she wondered where the fire was and who 'she' was. Elizabeth was lead through the room to the adjoining sitting room where there were card players and a gypsy. The sound of dice was in the air concealing the shrill of Mrs. Bennet's voice, or so Elizabeth hoped. "You see! There is a fortune teller and I must hear what she has to say."

Elizabeth was directed into the other chair at the little table set with a large crystal. The lady wearing bright colors and patterns smiled her understanding at Elizabeth while she continued shuffling her cards. Looking to her mother, she asked, "What did she say about you?" Elizabeth had never known her mother to be particularly superstitious, so could only assume that she was interested in the novelty.

"Me? I have no need to have my fortune told. What makes you ask such a thing? I must go find Jane and have her future told too!" with that, Mrs. Bennet removed into the sea of partygoers.

The fortune teller had been there all night at the request of the hostess, who received regular readings to sort out confusion and uncover her destiny. She had talked with a few guests, though it seemed that those who were aware of her presence were more interested in observing her rather than partaking of her services. Elizabeth lifted a brow and looked at her curiously. Elizabeth had never had a reading before and never felt the need to seek guidance from anyone other than Jane. However, Elizabeth thought briefly that a psychic's insight would have been useful while she visited Rosings.

"Miss, would you care to share your fortune?" The lady placed her cards back on the table and offered her bare hand.

Elizabeth had nothing to fear of the lady and offered her hand to her, "I thought that is what you were to do. I know nothing of the future." The lady smiled at her jest and introduced herself as Ann Marie as she pulled at Elizabeth's fingers to remove her glove. Inspecting the palm she held, Ann Marie drew lines while mumbling to herself. Elizabeth could not help to look over her own palm trying to decipher its secrets.

"You have the capacity to love well. You shall have a long marriage and a passionate one; you and your lover are quite compatible. It is rare to see."

The proclamation caused Elizabeth to flush, though she was able to quietly inquire, "Is there any way to improve? I mean to say, we are not yet married, how does one begin a marriage that is long and… passionate?"

Ann Marie smiled and searched her eyes and soul for the answer. "You will find your way. Communicate and do not hold yourself from him. I sense some fear, he will guide you in the ways. He has unconventional views that will do well for your future felicity—he must have for you to have trusted him with your heart." Looking down, she allowed time for the young lady to absorb her meanings.

It was then that Mrs. Bennet reappeared with her eldest daughter. "You see, Jane. You must ask her questions about you and Mr. Bingley. What has she said, Lizzy?"

Jane noticed her sisters pink cheeks and asked the fortune teller, "Miss, what can you see by looking at her hand?"

Ann Marie looked up at the gentle blond who asked her a direct question. She looked at Jane a moment and answered honestly. "There is much I can gather. I can decipher the integrity of the one who owns the hand. I can see the children, marriage happiness and how long a life shall be. There are other methods I use for other questions and information. I can usually see if others wish harm on another or if they will struggle. I can also see the aura surrounding you. In you, I see the serenity and friendliness of a white aura. You are not pretentious and attract people to you, I am sure that many people count you as a confidant." Elizabeth was amazed and her lifted eyebrow drew Ann Marie's attention and she continued, "In contrast to your sister, you have a yellow and orange look about you. You are very intelligent, observant, have a good heart and yet have a temper. You tend to judge those around you severely."

Elizabeth nodded and took up her glove to put it back in place. "Thank you. I believe I have heard enough, though I cannot say that your intelligence was not interesting."

As Elizabeth moved to stand, the fortune teller grabbed her hand, "Take care, Mademoiselle. I sense that there are people around you who do not think fondly of you."

Elizabeth nodded again and moved away with her sister following. Their mother was put out that they would not listen to more. Jane worried at Elizabeth's expression before her sister winked at her and explained that she wanted Darcy.

Elizabeth found him talking to his uncle and Mr. Gardiner. She felt that she needed him, even though she could not explain why. Ann Marie had told her nothing that she did not already know. Society was confused and dismayed that she had secured an offer of marriage from Mr. Darcy of Pemberley. She was quick to anger and did subconsciously judge the people around her; sometimes harshly, she thought bitterly wishing she had learned that lesson prior to the assembly where she first saw Darcy.

She did not see him at first, though she was drawn in his direction knowing instinctively where her betrothed could be found. She felt as though his energy reeled her in; when she saw his visage her muscles relaxed and her lungs were able to draw a deep breath, she instantly felt better. Resolutely, she decided to think on why later. She slipped her hand through the crook in Darcy's arm causing him to look down in some surprise before smiling and returning to his conversation. A thought that did linger in her consciousness, causing her some preoccupation, was the idea of having a long and passionate marriage; the thought pleased her immensely.

It was not long before it was deemed time to depart for the theatre.

AN: The next chapter is underway… Hope you enjoyed. Love to hear your ideas for the tea party the duchess is hosting.