The word was soft—but it struck him like a bell.
He exhaled a breath he had not known he held.
“You make me the happiest of men.”
“I expect you to prove it,” she returned, though her eyes shone.
The dance ended. Applause followed.
Darcy did not release her. “If you will permit me,” he said quietly, “I must seek your father at once.”
She nodded.
Mr. Bennet was not difficult to locate. He stood near the doorway, observing the proceedings with a look that suggested he found the entire spectacle more instructive than entertaining.
Darcy bowed. “Sir, may I request a private word?”
Mr. Bennet studied him for a long moment before gesturing toward the adjoining room.
The conversation was brief. Darcy spoke plainly. He did not embellish. He did not soften his intentions.
Mr. Bennet listened, arms folded. “And my daughter consents?” he asked at last.
“She does.”
Mr. Bennet’s gaze sharpened slightly. “You understand that she has a mind of her own.”
“I do.”
“And that she will use it.”
“I hope she will.”
A faint glimmer of approval appeared.
“Very well,” Mr. Bennet said. “You have my consent.”
Darcy bowed deeply.
When they returned to the assembly room, supper was being laid. As the last course was being finished, Mr. Bennet rose from his chair and tapped his glass with his knife.
“Ladies and gentlemen,” he called, his voice carrying more easily than his temperament might have suggested. “It appears that Longbourn is determined to distinguish itself this season.”
The room quieted.
“My daughter Elizabeth has just accepted Mr. Darcy’s offer of marriage.”
The reaction was immediate.
Mrs. Bennet shrieked. “Lizzy!” she cried, pressing both hands to her cheeks. “Mr. Darcy! Oh, my dear, dear Lizzy! To think—ten thousand a year!”
Before the commotion could subside, Mr. Bennet added mildly, “And as we are evidently committed to efficiency, Jane and Mr. Bingley are likewise engaged.”
If Mrs. Bennet had been animated before, she was now transported entirely beyond reason.
“Two daughters! In one evening! Oh, my nerves—my poor nerves—”
Jane flushed. Bingley looked as though he might embrace the entire company.
