Page 35 of Twice Chosen

Darcy was silent.

"Mr. Darcy, I do not ask from curiosity. If a man under my command poses a particular danger, I should know."

Darcy met his gaze. "There is more. It concerns another person, and I do not have leave to tell it."

Forster studied him for a moment, then nodded. "I understand."

Darcy exhaled. "I do not ask that Wickham be condemned for debts alone. Men may recover from debt. But watch him. Especially where gambling or very young women are concerned."

"I will."

"And do not lend him money."

Forster laughed. "That advice I accept freely."

Darcy rose. At the door Forster stopped him. "Mr. Darcy."

Darcy turned.

"I appreciate your speaking plainly."

Darcy bowed.

This was what old Darcy had meant by truth. Enough truth. Not all.

Elizabeth met Wickham two days later.

The old reaction still came, which annoyed her more than she expected. He was handsome, easy, warm, and possessed that effortless charm which made a new acquaintance feel chosen from the moment he smiled.

Lydia was enchanted within minutes.

Elizabeth's stomach tightened.

Wickham bowed over her hand. "Miss Elizabeth."

"Mr. Wickham."

His eyes lingered.

Elizabeth remembered once enjoying that. Now it made her cold.

Then Darcy and Bingley rode into view.

Wickham stiffened.

Darcy did not pale this time. He reined in and inclined his head. "Mr. Wickham."

His tone was civil. Nothing more.

Wickham looked wrong-footed. "Mr. Darcy."

Darcy greeted the ladies. His eyes found Elizabeth.

She read the warning immediately.

Old habit.

His chin lowered perhaps half an inch.