Page 10 of Twice Chosen

Why?

He did not know her.

Of course he did not.

Unless--

No. Impossible.

Darcy took one step toward her, then stopped when Bingley said something at his elbow. Elizabeth's heart pounded. He looked as though he had seen a ghost.

Grief could invent miracles, she reminded herself.

She smiled.

Darcy went pale.

That nearly made her laugh.

Sir William Lucas approached the gentlemen and introductions began. Elizabeth watched closely. Darcy was different immediately. He bowed to Mrs. Long. He spoke to Mr. Goulding. He answered Sir William with something more substantial than a syllable. He was still reserved and still looked as though a smile might cost him money, but he was trying.

Bingley noticed too. He kept looking at his friend as though expecting the real Darcy to emerge from behind a curtain.

The first dance began. Bingley danced with Charlotte and then Jane. Darcy did not dance. That part remained.

Elizabeth waited.

She knew the moment.

Bingley approached Darcy. "You must dance."

Darcy's gaze went instantly to Elizabeth.

Too instantly.

Her stomach tightened.

Bingley laughed and followed the look. "You have been staring at Miss Elizabeth Bennet for ten minutes. Ask her."

Darcy stared at Bingley, then at Elizabeth.

She bit the inside of her cheek.

Here it came.

Tolerable. Not handsome enough.

Darcy started toward her.

Elizabeth blinked.

He crossed the room.

People noticed. Of course they noticed.

He stopped before her. "Miss Elizabeth."

His voice, young again, nearly undid her.