Vampire Darcy's Desire

“After Fitzwilliam and you saved me from my attacker, I became dependent on him. I think his tender care during that time finally won me over,” Elizabeth added. Elizabeth knew—because Darcy had told her—that if Mr. Bingley thought more about the matter, he would remember Darcy had avoided her after that attack, saying he did not want her to think he was courting her. But Elizabeth was confident a man would never think of such a thing.Those comings and goings were in the realm of female thoughts.

“Mrs. Darcy and I married while His Lordship was in town. Colonel Fitzwilliam stood up with me, as he and his parents insisted on being here for the ceremony. In fact, Georgiana returned to Matlock with my aunt and uncle earlier today. Elizabeth and I will leave for Pemberley the first part of next week. I was remiss in informing you, Bingley, of my change in marital status; it was shameful of me. I became so engrossed in our first few days as

Bingley shifted uncomfortably, not accustomed to Darcy’s humility. “It is perfectly understandable, Darcy. Besides, you realize I also needed a few days away from my sisters. Seeking you out was a reasonable excuse to allay Caroline’s censure. In reality, I should thank you for aiding my escape.”

Elizabeth stood. “I will leave you two to renew your friendship.” She returned her cup to the tray. “Mr. Bingley, I hope you will join us for supper.”

“Mrs. Darcy, I cannot intrude on newlyweds.”

“Nonsense, Mr. Bingley. It is the least my dear Fitzwilliam can offer you after your trip to town.” Elizabeth winked at Darcy when Bingley looked away. “Besides, my Husband graciously encourages me to share our new home with my aunt and uncle. He realizes I will miss my family when we return to Pemberley.With your permission, Fitzwilliam, I would ask my family to join us.”

“Charming idea, Mrs. Darcy. Shall you send word to the Gardiners and Miss Bennet, or shall I?”

“Miss Bennet is in London?” Bingley asked, surprised.

“My sister accompanied me to my uncle’s house. My father, obviously, could not allow Fitzwilliam and me to travel to London alone.”

“I will be pleased to see Miss Bennet again.”

Elizabeth smiled at Darcy knowingly. “If you would see to the invitation, Mr. Darcy, I will go to the kitchen and speak to Mrs. Perkins about the menu.”

“I will see to it immediately, my dear.” Darcy stood and escorted her to the door.

“I will be in my sitting room if you have need of me. I must wrap the packages to send home with Jane.” Elizabeth touched Darcy’s cheek before turning to his friend. “Until later, Mr. Bingley.” She made a curtsy and was gone.

Darcy gazed after her retreating form. Elizabeth had assumed the role of his wife in a natural, easy manner. It was pleasant to observe her in action. Speaking to their cook would go a long way

“Splendid, Darcy.”

Nearly an hour later, Elizabeth sat staring out the fogged windows of her bedchamber. So far, her life with Darcy amazed her. Today alone, they had seen his sister off to Matlock.Then they had taken public transportation to Edward Street to track down a vampire. Now they entertained Darcy’s best friend and her family.

Elizabeth’s thoughts drifted to her husband. She missed him. He was downstairs with his friend, but she missed him. It is ironic that the man I once loathed has become the obsession of my heart. Elizabeth had come to depend on him—to need him—she felt truly alive only with Darcy close by.

She sighed deeply and peered down into the withered garden. Just then, a light tapping on the door caught her attention.“Come,” she said, assuming it to be her maid.

She glanced up to find Darcy standing in the doorway. Just his presence brightened the room, and she bestowed a full smile on him.“Mr. Darcy,” she greeted him, coming to her feet.

Darcy drank of her presence. Everything seems brighter when Elizabeth is near. “Ah, there you are, Elizabeth.”

“You needed me, Sir?” She gazed at him lovingly.

Slowly he closed the door behind him and returned the look, taking in her beauty.“Mrs. Darcy,” his voice came out a bit raspy,“I always need you.”

Elizabeth rushed into his welcoming arms. Darcy lifted Elizabeth to him and held her close; she snuggled into him, resting her head against his chest.“I know it is the most absurd foolishness,” she whispered as he lifted her higher, “but I was just considering how very dear you are to me.”

Darcy’s heart skipped a beat. Elizabeth rarely spoke of her affection. He often felt selfish for marrying her; she would have been happier, he thought, with a man with a less tragic family. It gladdened him to hear her declaration. Instantly, Darcy’s mouth found

“Do you think me foolish?”

Darcy smiled down at her. “I think you exquisite.” He sat her gently on her feet in front of him before using his fingertips to brush an errant curl back from her forehead. He lightly kissed the place his fingertips had touched.“I heard from your uncle,” he said, his voice caressing her as much as his hand or his lips.

“Will they join us this evening?” She did not move, needing to feel his warmth.

“Actually, I have a surprise for you, my love. After you left Mr. Bingley and me downstairs, he suggested an evening out, as well. So when I sent word to Mr. Gardiner, I requested that your family attend the opera as our guests this evening.Your uncle accepted for the family; we will dine here and then enjoy the musical entertainment from our box.”

“We have a box?” she asked and giggled.

Darcy traced her lips with the tip of one finger.“We do indeed have a box.”

“Oh, Fitzwilliam!” Her arms laced around his waist. “You are the most generous man!” She hugged him tightly.

He bent slowly, forcing Elizabeth to anticipate the kiss. “Then you are happy, Sweetling?”