Georgiana’s eyes widened at once, though she remained silent.
Lady Anne, however, did not. “And?”
“I have been paying my attentions there,” he said, evenly but without evasion.
The words settled in the carriage between them.
Georgiana’s hands clasped together in her lap. “You mean—”
“Yes.”
“For how long?” Lady Anne asked.
“Some weeks.”
“And you did not think to inform us?”
Darcy allowed the faintest hint of a rueful expression. “I attempted to. The letter did not progress beyond the first page. I could not find the right words to adequately describe her.”
“What is she like?” Georgiana asked eagerly.
“She possesses uncommon quickness of mind,” he said. “Her wit is lively without being unkind. She speaks her thoughts plainly. She does not defer merely because others expect it.”
Lady Anne’s lips curved faintly.
Lady Anne’s mouth curved slightly. “That must be a formidable lady.”
“She is,” he said simply. “Something in her manner and appearance reminds me of Lady Catherine; it is how she first came to my notice at an assembly.”
“Oh, did you dance together?” Georgiana asked in delight.
“Yes.”
“But youneverdance! It must be love.” His sister gave a little sigh and pretended to swoon onto the seat.
“I think it may be that, yes,” Darcy admitted.
“She sounds lovely,” Lady Anne said softly. “I look forward to meeting her very much.”
Georgiana’s face became solemn. “Do you think she will like us?”
Lady Anne glanced up from the small reticule she had been adjusting but did not speak.
“Why should she not?” he asked gently.
Georgiana folded her hands together. “You describe her as lively.”
“I do.”
“I am not.”
Lady Anne’s brows rose faintly.
Darcy regarded his sister steadily. “Elizabeth values sincerity above display. You possess that in abundance.”
Georgiana’s shoulders eased a fraction, though her gaze remained thoughtful.
“She will not find me dull?”
