Page 82 of A Most Unwelcome Acquaintance

“This is not only about Charles.”

Caroline had meant to proceed with care, but his refusal sharpened her purpose. “Charles admires Miss Bennet because she is sweet, and Miss Elizabeth holds your attention because she challenges you without trying to please you.”

“She holds nothing.”

“No? She contradicts you, and instead of dismissing her, you keep arguing.”

“You call every disagreement impertinence when it comes from someone you dislike.”

The rebuke landed with the precision she associated with him, but not the fairness. “I dislike no one without cause.”

“Your causes often begin with rank.”

Caroline stared at him. He had never before spoken to her in that manner, and the source of the change was clear.

“Rank matters because the consequences do,” she said. “You may admire intelligence wherever you find it, but that does not make every connection suitable.”

“I am aware of my obligations.”

“Then remember them before admiration becomes habit.”

Darcy’s jaw tightened. “You presume too much.”

“I see what others choose to ignore.”

“Or what you expect to find.”

He returned to the desk, opened Stewart’s letter, and dismissed her without saying so. Caroline remained long enough to make retreat look chosen.

“I shall inspect the summerhouse alone,” she said.

Darcy did not answer.

Outside the library, she found Louisa near the stairs with a basket of sewing in her hands.

“You spoke to him,” Louisa said.

Caroline continued toward the drawing room. “I spoke to Charles and Darcy.”

“And neither thanked you.”

“They will when they understand.”

Louisa followed. “Charles does not thank anyone for opposing what he wants.”

“He does not know what he wants. All he knows is that Miss Bennet receives him with a smile.”

“And Darcy?”

Caroline entered the drawing room and closed the door after them. “Darcy thinks Miss Elizabeth’s insolence deserves study.”

Louisa set down the basket. “Or he likes arguing with her.”

“Men do not marry women because they like to argue.”

“Some do.”

“Not Darcy.”