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Re: Jan H - The Child

What a chapter!
Stolen gun is best used to kill the thief.
I hope that Darcy will be brave enough for very open conversation with E.
Rhetorical question: where is Fan?
Waiting for my Sunday evening.
Thank you Jan.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Love that they are to share a bed. Poor Darcy. LOLOL

I do like that they are at least behaving better towards one another-- and that he defends her.

Looking fwd to the next posting!

Re: Jan H - The Child

I have thoroughly enjoyed the last chapters. Your writing in 1st person is very good. It really gives readers the opportunity to read this enigmatic man's mind.Also, you have approached the subject of the marriage in name only, which is otherwise quite repetitive, in a brand new way. Very refreshing. But then again, you have always given perfectly lovely stories. Cant wait for next chapter. Thanks

Re: Jan H - The Child

Caroline being so quiet and benign after Elizabeth left the room is quite out of character for her.

I'm hoping we'll find out what's wrong with Mr. Bennet soon, especially as he's pulled D&E back to Meryton. I was looking forward to them settling into Pemberley, finding a routine, and getting more comfortable with each other.

Toss the pillow, Darcy!

Re: Jan H - The Child

I can't wait to see how they awake in the morning?

Geri

Re: Jan H - The Child

Thank you, everyone! Some of your comments made me laugh out loud. Several of you mentioned a Hunsford scene in Darcy's future, and I certainly wouldn't rule that out. Right now, though, he's happy, so I'll let him enjoy it.

Re: Jan H - The Child

My dears, I'm a bit late. Switched to iMac recently and didn't have Office yet. Now I do, and the first thing I did was posting Jan's new installment. Enjoy!

Chapter 10

Re: Jan H - The Child

Jan H- what a great story I love it!! Can't wait for the next chapter!

Re: Jan H - The Child

Another great chapter Jan, the barriers are starting to break down.

Re: Jan H - The Child

“There now, does my state of undress meet with your approval?”

One more touch—” Taking her hand, she mussed my hair, causing it to fall across my forehead, and then she laughed. “Now, the servants will see that we are both, indeed, in need of assistance, and all will appear natural between us.”
This whole sequence just made me laugh...And then...the final touch...the pillow thrown on the chaise! It seems that working together to put up such a front for the Bingleys has served them well. They actually work quite well together! Nice way to start the day!

By the time I got to the superior sisters going over the stile I was almost rolling on the floor! Caroline wanting Darcy’s assistance…Louisa squealing...all the talking and noise! I’m sure the guys were ready for some target practice on some feathers of a different kind!

Stooping down to her level, I attempted to speak in a softer tone. “There now, do not cry. All is well.”

I stared in unbelief as she held out her little arms to me. “Up, man,” she sobbed.

Rather surprised that she did not even know my name,
Why should she know your name...you have made it quite clear you want nothing to do with her. Children are quit sensitive. They know who wants them and who doesn't.
And I can just see this scene...Darcy trying to talk logic to a small child. He says 'aunt' she says 'mama'...he says 'aunt' she says 'mama'! Wonder if that logic thing worked with Georgiana at that age?

“One cannot blame her for searching out the strongest reminder of you.”
OMG...was that a hint of...tenderness...care...approval for the child? Wow!! Impressive Darcy...most impressive!

“It is just that I never thought to hear any child call you Mamá but mine.”
Gee...I wonder if he will ever refer to his own children by their names...I don't think I've ever heard him refer to Fan by any name other than 'the child!' What did this child ever do to him? He had better get over blaming Fan for Wickham's deeds soon...or he will never have a happy home.

To this, Elizabeth turned and faced me. “What is this? You find some of my connections worthy?” With a smile, she turned toward Bingley and raised her eyebrows, while he simply laughed.

Excellent! He so deserved that!

These two are taking such small steps. And I can't wait to see what Caroline will try next! She is such a twit! She has no shame or pride at all...she's going after another woman's husband for goodness sake!! Isn't there a name for women like that?

Oh Jan...I'm loving this story so much and can't wait for more!

Re: Jan H - The Child

Jan! You make monday a happy day. Thank you very very much!
I like the way Darcy is softening to the girl.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Yes, yes, a softening Darcy. I'm glad he thought thru
his idea about being in the bedroom with Lizzy and she took the matter in hand.

Darcy and Fan, she wanted to be conforted and Lizzy scent does it for her and Darcy too.

Irene
GRC

Re: Jan H - The Child

A most satisfying chapter

I certainly hope that Lizzy will show more appreciation to Darcy now he's beginning to warm up to her family. So glad to see ODC are doing their best to put up a perfect marriage, and enjoying themselves in the process

The little scene betw Fan and Darcy was quite endearing. If only Elizabeth has witnessed it.

Thanks for the story, Jan! Look forward to the next weekend

Re: Jan H - The Child

It seems that both Elizabeth and Darcy are trying to get along; whether subconciously or not, it's a moot point. At least it is a beginning. They do work well; hopefully they'll realize it sooner rather than later.

For some reason, and some might not agree w/ me, I feel Darcy is right. Fan should call Elizabeth "Aunt", though I do understand Fan only knows one mother and that is Elizabeth. Nevertheless, I think Fan should be aware that Lydia was her mother thus honoring L's memory, honoring the woman that gave her birth. It was very amusing how Darcy and Fan were going back a forth w/ "Mamma" and "Aunt Elizabeth".

Darcy's scene w/ Fan was sweet. Maybe Elizabeth should go away more often and give them time to know each other. If E is not there to distract Fan, perhaps she will start feeling more comfortable w/ Darcy. Fan just needs/wants love and guidance. Darcy should start calling her Fan instead of "the child" and maybe Fan will start calling "Uncle Fitz" or something similar. They have something in common: their love for Elizabeth...and that might be the catalyst that helps the beginning of a beautiful friendship!

As always Jan, wonderful chapter but...I have a feeling this the calm before the storm.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Another excellent chapter. Thank you. Glad things are getting warmer everywhere, but I cannot help bracing myself for more angst in the near future, am I wrong?

Re: Jan H - The Child

The trip to Meryton seems to be doing both Elizabeth and Darcy some good.

Elizabeth's interactions with Darcy in the bedroom surprised me, she was relaxed and teasing in what Darcy thought would be an tense situation. Good for her!

Darcy with Fan surprised me, too. Even if he's a bit awkward, he's still gentle. Fan doesn't have a name for him ... yet. Let's see what she comes up with. I know what I'd like her to call him.

Can't help but hope that they get to a point where some their feelings can be openly expressed. So far, they're mainly going on impressions. Love how this is developing, Jan! Thanks for a great chapter.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Very lovely chapter.

thank you

Re: Jan H - The Child

Have just discovered your website from a hint on DWG, and look forward to reading lots more. Loved this last chapter of The Child - yes, hope Elizabeth does soften from Darcy's appreciation of the Gardiners.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Is it curmudgeonly of me to say I see Darcy's point of view about what Fan calls Elizabeth. There's no reason Darcy and Elizabeth can't act parental, but Fan is neither their adopted nor biological daughter, so wouldn't it be even odder if she did call them Mama and Papa? Won't they be telling her about her mother? Nothing wrong with being brought up by an aunt and uncle. Plus it gets complicated if she calls Elizabeth mama and doesn't call Darcy papa. Do you see what I mean? Why not transparency and honesty from the beginning?

Re: Jan H - The Child

Thank you, everyone, for all your comments! I'm glad you are enjoying a bit of fun as a break from all the angst. As to what Fan calls Darcy and Elizabeth, the child will probably make that decision. Never fear that Darcy's problems are over. Just like in real life, they always seem to be hovering around the corner.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Jan H
Thank you, everyone, for all your comments! I'm glad you are enjoying a bit of fun as a break from all the angst. As to what Fan calls Darcy and Elizabeth, the child will probably make that decision. Never fear that Darcy's problems are over. Just like in real life, they always seem to be hovering around the corner.


Or in the case of Wickham...slithering around the corner??!!

Re: Jan H - The Child

Jan H
As to what Fan calls Darcy and Elizabeth, the child will probably make that decision.


I am glad you take my view of it Parents and guardians can teach a child to say aunt and uncle, but the words that come more quickly to one so young as Fan are Mama and Papa (or Dada, depending upon the culture.) The role of mother and father are, I daresay, primal. Fan will have time to learn who Lydia was and who Darcy and Elizabeth are -- whatever the words she uses, I suspect the feelings she has for the roles and the way they play them, are not something that can be taught.

A rose by another name is still a rose.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Thank you for this wonderful story. I can't say I'm pleased with Darcy's behavior at the moment. He is being very insensitive towards Lizzy's and Fan's feelings. And he doesn't even notice it. I absolutely understand our dear girl's insecurity and hesitancy. He told her he loves another woman - a woman he can't have. What is she supposed to think? That her husband is in love with a married lady? Or a woman of even lesser social status than herself? This Darcy really has no emotional intelligence. Typical male. And so very annoying. Lol.

I'm so happy because we will get a new chapter very soon. Just like all your stories, this is so much fun. By the way, congratulations on publishing An Arranged Marriage and The Journey. Very exciting news. I will definitely order my copies. Love those two stories.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Oh please, please, please let something happen between E and D while Fan is with the rest of the family. Even if it is something small. Thank you for this wonderful story.

Re: Jan H - The Child

We all know trouble is coming soon. If Fan is missing, Lizzy and Darcy will get closer. But then afterwards, when and if Lizzy finds out about Darcy's original duplicity of trying to get Fan aways from the Bennets, I don't think Lizzy will be to forgive him. I do not see how they would be able to get past such deception. The only way I see this happening is if Darcy risks his life to save Fan, like being shot and nearly dying. That is the only way I see Elizabeth softening towards Darcy for all the damage he has caused. Many times, good intentions gets you into more trouble than helping.

I cannot wait till next post.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Lili Ch
Many times, good intentions gets you into more trouble than helping.


Like the proverb says:
"The road to hell is paved with good intentions!"

Re: Jan H - The Child

Lili Ch
We all know trouble is coming soon. If Fan is missing, Lizzy and Darcy will get closer. But then afterwards, when and if Lizzy finds out about Darcy's original duplicity of trying to get Fan aways from the Bennets, I don't think Lizzy will be to forgive him. I do not see how they would be able to get past such deception. The only way I see this happening is if Darcy risks his life to save Fan, like being shot and nearly dying. That is the only way I see Elizabeth softening towards Darcy for all the damage he has caused. Many times, good intentions gets you into more trouble than helping.

I cannot wait till next post.


I am also speculating along the same line as Lili! For all his good but arrogant intentions, they are sure coming back to haunt Darcy now!

I also agreed that Darcy is quite dense! With a gun missing and Wickham's sudden appearance, did it not occur to D that W is back for revenge since D did not "fulfill" his promise to W? Argh!!!

Hope Lizzy will still pop by to check on Fan out of habit anyway. The angst meter is going up by the looks of this chapter! Thanks for this fabulous story, Jan!

Re: Jan H - The Child

Maggie's man is Wickham isn't he? If so--good twist! Fan must seem awful to Darcy but if he had raised her from birth he would appreciate her more. The "terrible twos" are called that for a good reason."

Elizabeth is really starting very small trying to get used to her husband's affections. I hope they will make a little progress!

Thanks for the wonderful chapter, Jan. Love Wickham at large and armed!

Re: Jan H - The Child

Thank you, everyone, for your interesting comments! I can't believe the weekend is already here. Sorry to be so late in replying. I've had one of those yucky weeks in RL, as we all experience from time to time.

Also sorry for the cliffhanger. I'm afraid they're inevitable for awhile, but I'm trying to keep them at a minimum.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Argh! I fear that that response means that we will have to wait longer than expected for the next chapter

Re: Jan H - The Child

Chapter 13 is up, my dears. Enjoy!

Re: Jan H - The Child

Oh! I know that dastardly Wickham has kidnapped the child. Like that the Darcy's are warming up to each other very nicely though. Another terrific chapter Jan!!

Re: Jan H - The Child

They are growing closer but will the truth ripe them apart?

Irene
GRC

Re: Jan H - The Child

Oh Jan...there are just so many things that I enjoyed...Loved Darcy’s response to Lizzy about what married people do to begin their day

“The day before them...pos-si-bly,” I said, stretching out the last word.
I really don’t think that’s what he had in mind!!

I struggled to maintain my composure. Could my young wife truly be that innocent?
Of course she is you idiot! Proper young gentlewomen weren’t allowed to have the ‘experience’ you obviously have! Boy...he is too used to running with the Caroline Bingley crowd...who will throw themselves at a man in a heartbeat! Yikes...sometimes I just want to smack him with that 2 x 4! Lizzy is very innocent and they certainly didn’t have a courtship. Plus, she still believes him to be in love with someone else...Darcy really is thick!

And in my opinion, Caroline Bingley continues to act worse than Lydia! She flirts with and expects to be seen with a now married man! And she has the gall to talk about the Bennets? And her shameless sister still encourages her! Can’t Bingley control these two hussies!!

“Indeed?” Mrs. Hurst said, while Caroline placed her fork on the plate, leaving the food uneaten, and abruptly closed her mouth.
OMG…LOL! This was priceless. I could see Caroline with her mouth hanging open and suddenly losing her appetite! Thank you for this...it was such a break in the tension that seems to be ever present!

“Oh, leave Eliza to us,” Caroline said, rising to link her arm in Elizabeth’s. “Shall we take a turn about the room while you tell us all about your visit to Pemberley?”
If he did that...he would be an even bigger fool than I think him already! I suspect she is wanting to get an invitation from Elizabeth since Darcy won’t extend one. She really is a slut!!

OK...granted Elizabeth neglected to check on Fan but she already knew that she would be out walking early and therefore she did ask Darcy to check on her. Let’s face it...Darcy didn’t want to be bothered! He doesn’t like Fan and doesn’t want her around anyway! He still sees her as Wickham’s child and can’t see past that.

“Caroline and I will remain in the drawing room,” Mrs. Hurst said, pouring cups of tea for herself and her sister, “in case the child should wander in here.”
Oh Good Grief Bingley! Are these two really the type of aunts you would want around any of your children? Kick these two out, now! I’m always so angry with Bingley...he really is such a twit!

So...because he lured Wickham to Longbourn with the promise of lots of money and now Fan is missing, Darcy gets to hold Elizabeth in bed! I hope he’s happy...I’m not and I don’t think Elizabeth will be either when she finds out what he has done. However, she was the one who wanted to keep Maggie against Darcy’s urgings to get rid of her. But then again, none of this would have taken place if Darcy hadn’t brought Wickham into the picture. He didn’t even know he had a child until then. Nope...still can’t let Darcy off the hook.

Is it possible that Fan will be found and Wickham killed before he can relate to Elizabeth that Darcy is the reason he came back? Then Darcy will just have to live with his guilt for the rest of his life instead of living without Elizabeth.
I still say Darcy deserves the likes of Caroline Bingley...She really is worse than Lydia! At least Lydia thought she would be married when she ran off with Wickham...Caroline is chasing after a man already married and could be nothing better than his mistress, if he would have her, that is! What a slut!

I can’t believe that Darcy is thinking how innocent and naïve Elizabeth is, yet he is the one who
1. told Wickham about his daughter and promised him money if he would take her away, and
2. knows that Wickham is back in the area and he has a gun.
Can he really be that dense to not put things together?
So everyone is frantically searching for Fan! Wickham wants money! When will the ransom note be delivered and what will it say?
And what about Mr Bennet and his illness. I can't imagine what will happen to Elizabeth if her father gets worse or dies. None of this would have happened in the first place if Darcy had just let Bingley know about Jane being in London years ago...and then, if he hadn't brought Wickham back to Longbourn. Darcy really does have a lot to answer for!

Oh Jan...this past week was maddening, just knowing that Fan was going to be missing…and now...well...it’s just going to be so hard to have to wait until next Sunday for more! Maybe we need another post...uh...today!!!

I’m really enjoying this story told from Darcy’s POV. It’s easy to read and I have no problem following the scenes. As a matter of fact, many of the scenes I can picture happening like they are on a movie screen and I’m watching them unfold. Thank you so much for another wonderful gem! I'll try to hold onto this limb I'm out on but my arms are getting very, very tired!

Re: Jan H - The Child

Yes, it looks as if Wickham in cahoots with the maid Maggie snatched Fan. Will the increasingly friendly relationship between William and Elizabeth face a sudden freeze when she realizes the role William played -- he paid Wickie to come back into their lives, after all. Now the Wickster probably feels entitled because he did not get all the money he expected -- I'm pretty sure that if he took his daughter, it was not that he was driven by filial love.

I am still willing to get Darcy a pass because he was really trying -- and he's still pretty fogged in with his obsession with Elizabeth, so he's not at full mental capacity. He should have realized by now that this is all W's doings. (I'm assuming so although this has not been absolutely determined in the story yet.) I still blame Elizabeth more. How did she hire Maggie in the first place? Perhaps, though, in the end, William and Elizabeth will agree they are equals in this fiasco.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Jan, thanks for the new chapter. I truly love the story and I can't wait for the next chaper. Love the way how Elisabeth and Darcy grow towards each other. But I fear the moment when Elisabeth will discover the truth about Darcy's role in bringin back Wickham into their lives.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Oh my, when Elizabeth finds that Darcy brought Wickham to the country she is going to be furious.
I do hope that Fan is ok and she is being at least fed and kept warm. I think Wickham would not care a bit if she wasn't.

I cannot believe that Elizabeth would be so naive as to not know what goes on in the marital be at times, especially after Lydia's downfall and the babe.

Waiting a whole week to read more I hope it goes by quick.

Another chapter executed with great writing!

Re: Jan H - The Child

This story has been superb thus far! I am exceedingly anxious for Fan to return, or at least for a ransom note to be delivered. That blasted Wickham! I'm glad to see the evolution of Darcy's character, as far as Fan is concerned. Thanks for sharing your beautiful work with us! It's lovely.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Jump to say thank you.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Thank you, KayakChick, Lucy, Helene, and Vesna for your lovely comments! These chapters are hard to post just one at a time because they end in such anxious moments. Sorry about that.

Re: Jan H - The Child

It will be interesting when/if a ransom note turned up. Darcy will most certainly have to reveal the truth to Elizabeth, and that is not going to be pretty. Argh! Oh Darcy, what have you done?!!

Thanks for the chapter, Jan! We are so hooked! Look forward to more

Re: Jan H - The Child

Today IS Sunday, is it not? Where is my share of Jan's story? Mondays are not the same without it!

Re: Jan H - The Child

Wickham, Wickham, Wickham!

Darcy is also in big trouble, yes he told about the ransom but not how he is involved.

Lizzy will widdle it out and then what?

Irene
GRC

Re: Jan H - The Child

This story will be fun to re-read for many reasons -- watching the budding relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth one of them and Darcy's slow dawning of care for Fan another. But reading it the first time is a singular pleasure, as one tries to figure out what is happening.

For example, since Maggie asked her employers not to look in on the child on their return from the Lucases' gathering, does that mean she was taking the child that night? But if that is so, then why was Wickham looking in the window at the Lucases, as if trying to make sure Darcy was not at Netherfield? Did Wickham arrive at Netherfield to find Maggie and the child already gone, but did he decide to hit Darcy up for a ransom anyway? Has Maggie taken Fan to Cutter's Wood to hide? But if she was going to do that, then why not just disclose her conspiracy with Wickham and say she now thought better of it --she did not want to go along with him? Or, did Maggie and Fan somehow leave for London ahead of Wickham, since he was seen leaving alone? I think the theft of a jug of milk, bread and ham suggests that Maggie is somewhere still in the vicinity and she may have her own reasons for trying to avoid Wickham. I just don't get, if I am right about that part, why she felt unwilling to confess it to Elizabeth? Is Maggie afraid of losing her job but thinks that if she brings Fan back unharmed, no ransom needed, she will earn Darcy's regard finally -- after all, it was he who hired someone to work over her.

None of this wild speculation may be anywhere close to the target, but you inspired it in me and I thought I would offer it for your amusement. It's the least I can do since your story provides so much entertainment!

Re: Jan H - The Child

I myself was thinking along the same lines as Lacy. The ham, bread, and milk were stole my Maggie so the child would not go hungry, the till money on the other hand is all Wickahm. And if Wickham didn't have the woman and child with him when he left it would be good to check Cutter's Wood anyway - I hope he does if nothing else to rule it out.

And sheesh, why did not Darcy come forward with the truth again. He should have told Elizabeth the full truth this time.
Such a great chapter. I hope the Bingley women do not start any rumours on their own.
trez

Re: Jan H - The Child

Wickham left alone, food was stolen, somebody really needs to check Cutter's Wood.
Darcy, you have an open door so admit the truth. Yes, she will be angry, probably she will kill you with tongue-lashing but remember her little smile when she found out that you are not married and closeness you two have now. Telling the truth is your last train to happiness.
Jan you are wonderful.

Re: Jan H - The Child

I so much want to run to that Wood.
Maybe with google maps?
Great story! Thank you

Re: Jan H - The Child

Jan-as with all your stories-this one is excellent-you are one of my fav authors-wish I was more eloquent in my praise! Mary

Re: Jan H - The Child

What have I brought to pass?

Indeed!!! Darcy made his bed, now he has to lay in it. Unfortunately, he is not the only one that has to pay for his f@ck up; Fan, Elizabeth, the Bennets, just to name a few. But I also blame Elizabeth; she trusted Maggie blindly even thou she was not competent or responsible w/ Fan, Darcy had reservations about her and for once, he was right. And Darcy..he needs to man up and come clean, not only w/ Elizabeth but w/ everyone around him. He has a tendency to avoid speaking of certain subjects thinking they will go away. Sweeping the dirt under the rug so you can't see it does not mean it is not there. When will he ever learn? It will be a mess once this is over.

So many posibilities...of what really happened.

Re: Jan H - The Child

Oh I want to shake your darcy get it over with confess the whole truth now.
Oh dear more soon please

Re: Jan H - The Child

Come on, Darcy! This is a good time to man up and confess to Lizzy what you have done!

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