“Especially when you disagree with them, I suspect. Lizzy is never more pleased than when someone gives her a proper battle.”
“I have observed as much.”
“Have you also observed that she does not always yield?”
“Yes.”
“And that she has a habit of managing everyone in this house, whether they wish it or not?”
“Yes.”
“And that she is much too clever for peace, much too lively for dullness, and much too honest to flatter you into comfort when you are wrong?”
Darcy felt his expression soften despite the gravity of the interview. “Yes.”
Mr. Bennet studied him for another long moment, then gave a short sigh that might have been amusement, resignation, or something in between. “You are either very much in love, Mr. Darcy, or in possession of a taste for discomfort I should not have suspected.”
“Perhaps both.”
At that, Mr. Bennet laughed outright.
The sound eased something in Darcy’s chest, though he did not allow himself too much hope.
“Well,” Mr. Bennet said, “I cannot think of any reason to refuse permission for a courtship. Lizzy is not a fool, despite having lived under this roof all her life, and if she has asked for time, she means to use it. You may court her.”
Darcy bowed his head. “Thank you, sir.”
“But understand me clearly.” Mr. Bennet’s tone sharpened. “If Elizabeth changes her mind, I shall not obligate her to continue merely because you are Mr. Darcy of Pemberley.”
“I would not wish you to.”
“Good. I have little taste for obligating Lizzy to anything. It only makes her more determined.”
“I will respect her wishes.”
“I hope so. You may find them numerous.”
Darcy nearly smiled. “I shall consider it a privilege to learn them.”
“That answer was far too earnest. Be careful, Mr. Darcy, or she will make a very great fool of you.”
“She may already have done so.”
“Then you are further along than I thought.”
Mr. Bennet picked up the book that lay open beside him, as though the matter were settled and the interview concluded. Darcy waited a moment, expecting some further instruction, some formal dismissal, perhaps even another question.
Mr. Bennet turned a page.
Darcy remained seated.
Mr. Bennet’s eyes did not leave the book. “Was there something else?”
“No, sir.”
“Excellent.”
Darcy rose. “Thank you for your time.”
