The Many Faces of Fitzwilliam Darcy

By Margot McNeil

Two paths. Two futures. One choice.

 

When Fitzwilliam Darcy is invited to a ball at Netherfield to celebrate the engagement of his dear friend Charles Bingley, he is reintroduced to two women from his past. One is a free-spirited and unusual girl from a family far outside his social class. The other, a family friend from Darcy's childhood, is proper and refined. When the evening ends and guests depart, the gentleman is left with a decision…

 

And it is a decision that will change the course of his life forever.

 

The Many Faces of Fitzwilliam Darcy is a Pride and Prejudice variation that will surprise you at every turn. Full of mystery, romance, and a dash of magic, join ODC as they walk the winding path to a happy ending!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Daisy Chain Publishing
• Release date: Aug 8, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223083122

Book preview

The Many Faces of Fitzwilliam Darcy

The Many Faces of Fitzwilliam Darcy

A PRIDE AND PREJUDICE VARIATION

MARGOT MCNEIL

Daisy Chain Publishing

Copyright © 2023 by Daisy Chain Publishing

All rights reserved.

No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Coming Soon…

Available in September

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One

It was not quite noon as Fitzwilliam Darcy, weary from his journey from London, arrived at Netherfield. The charming country estate was recently acquired by his close friend, Charles Bingley. The sight of the grand manor house, nestled amidst the lush landscape, was a balm to Darcy's spirit as he breathed in the fresh country air.

Darcy, my good man! Bingley exclaimed, emerging from the entrance with a genial smile. I am delighted you have come! Let me show you around my humble abode.

Your 'humble abode' is quite impressive, Bingley, Darcy remarked, following his friend into the elegant foyer. The warm glow of the mid-day sun shining through the tall windows cast a welcoming light on the polished marble floor and intricate cornices that decorated the ceiling.

Yes, I am content with my choice, Bingley replied, leading Darcy through the expansive drawing room adorned with exquisite paintings and fine furnishings. But you can see the house later; let us venture outside and take in the grounds.

As they strolled through the manicured gardens, Darcy could not help but feel a sense of peace wash over him, momentarily easing the burden of his responsibilities as master of Pemberley. Bingley, ever the gracious host, regaled his friend with tales of his new neighbors and country life.

Your new home is quite impressive, Bingley, Darcy remarked. It is evident that your fortune has been put to good use.

Quite, I feel fortunate to have found such a place, Bingley replied with a pleased smile. But tell me, how fares Pemberley? I trust all is well with your estate?

Ah, Pemberley, Darcy mused, a fond smile playing at the corners of his lips. It continues to thrive under my care, though I must admit, I sometimes find it difficult to manage such a vast property. Especially while working from my home in London.

Perhaps that is why you ought to marry, my friend, Bingley suggested with a teasing grin, expertly weaving the conversation to the topic of matrimony. A capable wife could assist you in managing your affairs.

Darcy, however, was not so easily drawn into this line of discussion. As they walked beneath an arbor dripping with fragrant wisteria, he shifted the conversation back to more comfortable ground. The gardens at Pemberley are in full bloom, he shared, admiring the delicate purple blossoms overhead. I believe you would be most pleased by the progress our head gardener has made.

Ah, yes, I remember you mentioning his expertise, Bingley said, giving the flowers a cursory glance before turning his attention back to his friend. But do not think me distracted, Darcy. I still maintain that finding a suitable wife would be beneficial to you.

Your concern is noted, Bingley, Darcy replied, his tone dry but not unkind. Now, enough of this talk about marriage – surely there are other matters for us to discuss?

Very well, Bingley conceded, though the gleam in his eyes hinted that he had not given up entirely on the subject. Tell me more about Pemberley's gardens, then. Are they as breathtaking as the ones here at Netherfield?

Indeed, they are even grander, Darcy said with a touch of pride, guiding Bingley through a wrought-iron gate and into a maze of boxwood hedges. I have always found solace in tending to them, and I believe their beauty has only grown under my stewardship.

Then perhaps it is time I paid another visit to Pemberley, Bingley declared, his gaze taking in the labyrinthine paths that stretched out before them. I would very much like to see these magnificent gardens again for myself.

Of course, you are always welcome, Darcy assured him, a genuine warmth suffusing his voice. As they continued their leisurely stroll, he felt a flicker of gratitude for the steadfast friendship that had seen them through countless trials and tribulations. He also knew that Bingley's relentless matchmaking efforts stemmed from a place of deep affection.

Thank you, my friend, Bingley said, clapping Darcy on the back. And who knows? Perhaps during my visit, we may find suitable brides for both of us.

A gentle breeze rustled through the leaves overhead as Darcy and Bingley continued their leisurely walk along the gravel path.

Tell me, Darcy, Bingley began, his tone casual but a glint of mischief in his eyes, do you intend to ever get married?

Marriage is not a matter of intention, Bingley, Darcy replied, maintaining his composure. It is a matter of finding a woman who can truly capture my heart and complement my life at Pemberley.

Ah, so you have no intention of getting married then? Bingley teased, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. What a confirmed old bachelor you are!

Old? Darcy bristled, affronted by the claim. I still have many years ahead of me, Charles, and I will not be goaded into marriage merely to satisfy society's expectations.

Very well, very well, Bingley conceded, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "But tell me,