Disheartened and convinced by Elizabeth's assertion of Miss Bingley's character, Jane Bennet insists Elizabeth return to London with the Gardiners after Christmas to provide her with a reprieve from their mother, who has not accepted Elizabeth's rejection of Mr. Collins's suit.

For twenty years Elizabeth Bennet had lived, quite contentedly, as the second daughter of a country squire. During her Easter visit to her newly married friend, Lizzy has the dubious pleasure of being introduced to Lady Catherine de Bourgh and her cosseted daughter. To Elizabeth’s surprise, the pair take a keen interest in a mere adopted daughter of the Bennet family, and when Mr. Darcy dutifully pays his annual visit to Rosings Park, her life takes a wholly unexpected turn.

Mrs. Bennet and her sister are bound for Bath to take the waters. The mistress of Longbourn could not part from her duties if it were not for Mrs. Gardiner of Gracechurch Street. At Elizabeth’s request, her favorite aunt has offered to take up residence for the few months Mrs. Bennet is absent.

A few days after the Hunsford Proposal, Darcy unexpectedly comes upon Elizabeth Bennet on the road to London. Her carriage has met with an accident! Of course, Darcy comes to the rescue despite the recent, scathing rejection of his hand and heart. Circumstances force them to seek refuge in a nearby farmhouse, posing as man and wife! Why was Elizabeth travelling to London in a strange carriage, days before her visit to the metropolis was scheduled?

Darkness, in many forms, must be conquered to emerge into the light and embrace one’s happily ever after. Fitzwilliam Darcy. Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. Two cousins, closer than brothers. One finds love despite his inner demons; the other resists love because of them. Elizabeth Bennet. Kitty Bennet. Two sisters, strengthened by adversity. One willingly yields to love; the other pridefully misinterprets it.