WHEN MR. FITZWILLIAM DARCY RETURNS to Hertfordshire a year after last seeing Elizabeth Bennet, he is surprised to find that she has taken up careering around the countryside in a brand new curricle. Even more surprising is the manner in which their verbal sparring turns to good humor, banter, and flirtation. So much so that her neighbors begin to wonder if their attachment is more than just friendly.

What if Lady Catherine never visited Longbourn and Mr. Darcy's second proposal never took place? The wedding of Jane and Mr. Bingley is fast approaching, but Elizabeth dreads the day. She is overjoyed for her sister and honoured to be the maid of honour at the ceremony. But a certain gentleman will also be in attendance, acting as the best man of the wedding, and Elizabeth isn't too sure she wants to see him. For how can she stand at the altar of the church, beside the man she loves, knowing that the wedding is not theirs? ...Especially when it could have been. As the wedding day arrives, ...

This is the 2nd edition of this book, updated for minor typos and formatting. It is the same book as published in 2023, it is not a new book. At the age of 13 Elizabeth Bennet met her reclusive neighbours and from that moment her life was changed forever. She learned the realities of life in Regency England for a young woman. What she learned disappointed and annoyed her, resulting in a young woman who held herself, and those around her, to a high standard. Rather than keep her constrained like so many young women, her neighbours encouraged her to be whatever she wanted. And if she wanted ...

Mr. Darcy is unmarriageable. Every time he shows any interest in a lady, be it casual or serious, the lady disappears or has disaster befall her. Soon, society spreads gossip that he is cursed, and mamas and daughters alike shun his company. Some unknown nemesis keeps the rumors alive, and soon, he suspects he will never find happiness until he discovers who wants him ruined. In Meryton, a humbled Mr. Darcy finds himself drawn to a local beauty. Ever cautious that the villain behind his misfortune is watching, he takes great pains to keep his courtship a secret.

What if Elizabeth Bennet had been carrying a secret for three years before being formally introduced Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley? Love is instant but they must overcome several obstacles before they find their happily ever after. Rated T for lightly-descriptive sexual situations, mild language, and topic of premarital relations