Elizabeth gave a small shrug and attempted a laugh. “It might be worse. He might remain and keep me company.”
Darcy did not smile. “You shall recover, of course,” he said quietly. “Nevertheless, he will not dance with you again.” Heturned to Mary. “Miss Mary, would you stay with Miss Elizabeth for a few moments?”
Mary nodded and sat beside her.
Darcy strode away and soon returned with Mr. Bennet. “Miss Mary,” he said quietly, offering his hand, “the set is continuing.” He led her back toward the floor as the dance resumed.
Elizabeth looked up at her father. “What did he say to you?”
Mr. Bennet sat beside her. “Only that you required protection from a clumsy partner. Are you hurt?”
Elizabeth nodded slightly. “He trod on my feet several times, but I do not believe it will prove fatal.”
Mr. Bennet frowned. “Nonetheless, I shall not permit him to attempt it again.”
Mr. Collins approached carefully carrying a glass of lemonade. “Miss Elizabeth, I have brought your…”
Mr. Bennet rose slowly. “Mr. Collins, I believe my daughter will sit out the remainder of this set.”
Mr. Collins looked concerned. “Is she unwell?”
Mr. Bennet replied calmly. “I believe my daughter has had sufficient dancing for the present. At least with partners who approach the exercise like a military campaign.”
Mr. Collins blinked in confusion. “But I had also secured the honour of dancing with Miss Bennet and Miss Mary.”
“Yes,” Mr. Bennet said mildly. “However, after witnessing your exertions on the floor, I think it best if the ladies choose their remaining partners themselves this evening.”
***
Elizabeth sat out the next few dances until the supper set.
Darcy came over and sat beside her. “How are you feeling?”
Elizabeth smiled up at him. “Much better.”
“Are you certain? I do not mind sitting with you if that is your preference.”
“I am quite certain.”
Darcy smiled, stood, and offered his hand. She took it and they walked onto the floor. The musicians began another country dance. Elizabeth stood opposite Darcy, with Jane and Bingley beside them.
Elizabeth was surprised to see her parents a few couples down the line. Her mother’s smile was wide, and to her astonishment her father appeared to be smiling as well. The dancers clapped as each couple moved down the line. Soon it was their turn. Darcy took her hand and they moved smoothly down the set.
Miss Bingley stood at the edge of the room, her expression tight as Mr. Darcy appeared entirely absorbed in Elizabeth.
When the dance ended Mr. Darcy escorted Elizabeth to supper. They found a table and sat with Jane and Mr. Bingley. Mary and one of the Goulding sons soon joined them.
Darcy leaned toward Elizabeth. “May I fix you a plate?”
Her expression softened into a smile. “Yes, thank you.”
Darcy went to the supper table and soon returned with two plates, setting one before her. “I hope this will do.”
She looked over the selections. “Most of these are favourites. I am pleased.”
Darcy smiled. “I am glad to hear it.”
After a moment he asked quietly, “And when does Mr. Collins return to Kent?”
