Page 63 of A Most Unwelcome Acquaintance

“Or your account of them has not.”

For a moment, surprise broke through his charm. Then he bowed. “I deserve that. Old grievances make poor company.”

Kitty touched his sleeve. “You promised not to be grave tonight.”

“And I have failed. Permit me another attempt?”

He led her toward Lydia and Denny.

Darcy looked at Elizabeth. “You defended me.”

“I corrected an unfair remark. Do not mistake accuracy for allegiance.”

“I shall attempt the distinction.”

Caroline approached before Elizabeth could answer. “Mr. Darcy, Sir William asks if you will join the next table. He claims Mr. Goulding has demanded a stronger opponent.”

Darcy glanced toward Sir William, who was speaking with Lady Lucas and showed no sign of having sent the message.

“I have finished with cards,” he said.

“Then perhaps you will walk through the gallery. Louisa says the portrait near the stairs resembles your aunt.”

“It does not.”

Caroline smiled. “Then you must tell me why.”

“I have no interest in the portrait.”

Elizabeth looked away before Caroline caught the amusement in her face.

Louisa joined them. “Caroline, Lady Lucas wants your opinion of the supper table.”

“Why should she want mine?”

“Because you have looked at it six times.”

Caroline's mouth tightened. “I was considering the space the servants had left near the door.”

“Then you may reassure her.”

The sisters moved aside. Louisa spoke in a tone too low for Elizabeth to hear, but Caroline's eyes went to Darcy before she answered.

Hurst appeared beside Elizabeth with a plate in his hand. “My wife has begun saving people from conversations. It will ruin the evening.”

“Perhaps she chooses those in danger.”

“Then Darcy requires constant rescue.”

Darcy looked at him. “From what?”

Hurst selected a pastry. “Cards, portraits, supper tables. Netherfield contains hazards in every room.”

“You have survived them.”

“I avoid movement.”

Elizabeth laughed, and Hurst regarded her with mild interest, then looked at Darcy.