Page 54 of Twice Chosen

"Of course," she said. "I thought you would enjoy it."

"I know."

"I am sorry."

Georgiana smiled.

The apology was small.

Elizabeth remembered a lifetime in which Caroline rarely apologized because she believed intention excused impact.

Perhaps everyone was being given second chances in ways they would never know.

Chapter Fourteen

Charlotte Lucas

Elizabeth approached Charlotte carefully.

That was difficult because Charlotte had known her too long.

"You are meddling," Charlotte said before Elizabeth had managed to explain anything.

They were walking toward Lucas Lodge after a morning at Longbourn. Mr. Collins had arrived two days earlier and already managed to mention Lady Catherine forty-seven times, according to Lydia's count.

Elizabeth blinked. "I have said nothing."

"Exactly."

"What does that mean?"

Charlotte's mouth curved. "You usually say everything. You have spent half the walk looking as though you wish to ask me a question and the other half deciding you have no right. I am saving time."

Elizabeth laughed. "You always were inconveniently sensible."

"Were?"

Danger.

Elizabeth smiled quickly. "Are."

Charlotte gave her a suspicious glance but allowed it.

Elizabeth drew a breath. "Would you accept Mr. Collins if he proposed?"

Charlotte stopped walking.

"That is direct."

"I know."

"He has not asked."

"If he did?"

Charlotte resumed walking more slowly. "I am twenty-seven, Lizzy."

"I know."