Richard Fitzwilliam, second son of the Earl of Matlock and cousin to Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley, has led a blessed life. Believing the most he could want was a distinguished military career, he was pleasantly surprised when he found the love his life and married. After welcoming a son into this world followed by twins two years later, his beloved wife fell ill. Though she recovered, her health was never what it once had been and, after three years, she succumbed to a fever. Left now with three young children to raise alone, he turns to his cousin and Pemberley for solace and direction. Mary Bennet, third daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet of Longbourn and sister to Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy, has been searching for some meaning in her life. Being the only unwed daughter, she unwillingly command the sole attention of her matchmaking mother. She seeks escape at Pemberley, hoping to find her way while assisting the Fitzwilliam children cope with the loss of their mother. Though inspired by the epilogue of Behind the Mask: A Pride and Prejudice Alternative Novel, this work is able to stand alone.

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