“Then I am satisfied. And I dare say, you may yet prove that a sensible man with a good fortune is not always sorare a find.”
Elizabeth laughed and hugged him tightly, and Mr. Bennet, blinking back the tide of feeling that pressed too near, held her as though he knew she would not be his much longer.
“Shall we delay telling your mama? If she is informed now, she will have half the neighborhood invited to dine before the day is out. Perhaps Mr. Long can be persuaded to allow the announcement this evening, when her triumph may be shared with the largest audience possible.”
“That suits me perfectly, Papa.”
“Off with you, then. Go to your betrothed.”
She did as she was bid, eager to be with Darcy once more.
Darcy
The drawing room at Purvis Lodge glittered with light and laughter as the Longs hosted the annual Twelfth Night gathering. The guests were resplendent; the fire crackled merrily, and the fragrance of wassail and roasted chestnuts lingered in the air.
Darcy stood near the hearth, surveying the company with composed interest until Bingley leaned close and muttered, “I declare, I have quite had my fill of holiday events. Who knew the Hertfordshire countryside would be as busy as town?”
“Yet none in town offer such lively company.”
Then she entered—Elizabeth, radiant in a gown of cream and blue, sapphire pins glinting like starlight in her hair. The pearl necklace lay gracefully about her neck, the embroidered shawl draped over her arms, and the evening gloves fitted her hands with elegance. A selection from nearly every gift he had given her was on display.
He crossed the room and bowed. “The sapphires suit you.”
Elizabeth’s eyes gleamed with mischief. “As well they should. I am told they were chosen by someone with exceptional taste.”
“You are remarkably composed.” He drew nearer, unable to resist.
“Someone has been sending me rather romantic tokens. It flaunts propriety, I dare say, but I cannot refuse them. It would be a slight to the gentleman who chose them with such care.”
Their eyes met, and for an instant, the very air seemed suspended about him.
“That would not do at all. No, you had much better flaunt propriety. Causing offense is best avoided.”
Her laugh was low and merry. “Very well, sir, I shall do as you suggest.” She paused. “I was right to conceal them before. Lydiaremarked upon my pins and shawl the moment I stepped into the drawing room before we departed.”
“Did she? You know your sister very well, then. Did your mother have anything to say?” He guided Elizabeth’s hand through his arm, intent on keeping her close all evening.
“She did not. Mama told Lydia to cease her complaints and prepare to depart. Kitty wisely kept silent, though she examined my attire more closely before we boarded the carriage.”
“I am pleased you managed to reach the gathering without conflict.” Darcy regarded her with wonder, marveling that he had won her heart and her hand.
Moments later, came a call for dancing. Mr. Long cleared the floor, and Mrs. Long, full of mirth, declared, “We shall have a waltz!”
Gasps rippled through the room—how scandalous! But Darcy was ready. He turned to his beloved, her arm still linked with his.
“Shall we dance, my love?” He spoke in low tones, the force of his anticipation unmistakable.
“It would be my pleasure.” Elizabeth’s smile warmed him to the core. “Though you may be required to compensate for my errors. I have not danced the waltz in public. It is not the done thing.”
“I have only paired with Georgiana. I promise I shall not fail you.”
They stepped onto the floor. As the waltz began, the world beyond them ceased to matter. Her hand rested lightly upon his shoulder, his on her waist, and they moved as one. Her eyes searched his face, filled with love. Bliss carried them through the measure; her perfume surrounded him, her nearness intoxicating. When the music ebbed, Darcy bent close. “I love you,” he breathed for her alone.
Before Elizabeth could answer, Mr. Bennet’s voice carried across the room, “Ladies and gentlemen, if I might haveyour attention. Mr. Long has graciously allowed me to make an announcement in his home. My daughter, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, has consented to marry Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy. My wife and I are very blessed. Three of our lovely daughters have secured their happiness this festive season!”
A hush fell. Mrs. Bennet gasped audibly and clutched the back of her chair.
“My stars,” she cried. “Three daughters engaged! All at once! I shall swoon!”
