Their mirth finally subsided, and he asked, “And the staring?”
A flush of bashfulness overtook her. “That was just playing the odds. My sisters asserted you stared at me most of the time.”
That one started him laughing again, and she joined, though with more shyness.
“I am astonished to greet you here.”
“As am I.”
Elizabeth started wringing her hands, and stared toward shoes she could not see—an instinctive mannerism.
“Did you get my letter? I apologise if it made you uncomfortable, but it had to be said.”
“Miss Bennet… I had the supreme pleasure of receiving your letter. I have it here.”
“I… well.”
“Do not be uncomfortable. The letter was wonderful, and I hold it in high regard.”
“Thank you.”
Awkwardness returned, and Darcy walked a few steps closer. His boots sounded clearly, and she had already memorised the new polish so he would not catch her unawares again.
“Speaking of letters, did Anne receive Lady Catherine’s cyphered message?”
“She did. I… I must thank you with all my heart for what you did for my sister. That was extraordinary.”
“It was not, but I most heartily offer my welcome.”
“I shall be the judge.”
Both were now even more shy and awkward. Elizabeth knew they were alone, or at least trusted that Mr Darcy ensured they were. Mr Hopkinson had planted himself outside the parlour when she started playing, and as always, she knew herself wellprotected. Only Mr Darcy would have been allowed in; she now recollected the door closing just before she called out, though it had scarcely registered.
“I must ask, why are you here? Are you to see Anne?”
“I am not. I must admit to a desire to see her, but I have extensive correspondence from her and Mr Read, as well as your recommendation. I am not in the least concerned with Anne’s situation.”
“Why are you here?”
“I am courting.”
Startled, Elizabeth stumbled in her speech before she could reply, her voice trembling more than she preferred. Only then did she realise how disappointed she would be when he married.
“May I ask who? Is it someone I know?”
“You, of course!”
“Me?”she said with an alarmed squeak.
“Yes, you!I know I have only recently managed to re-enter your good graces, but I intend to press my advantage while I can. I intend to make you fall in love with me.”
“Me?”
“Yes, you. Miss Elizabeth Bennet. You are the love of my life, and I can only hope you will feel the same one day.”
“But… but… but… I am… I am—”
“What objections do you plan to give, Elizabeth? Blind… Poor… No connections… Small dowry… Shrill mother… Indolent father… None were ever important, and the first is the only one that even exists anymore.”
