Page 60 of Twice Chosen

No scolding. No laughter.

Lydia moved away. Kitty followed.

Elizabeth returned to the edge of the ballroom. Darcy watched her. He knew exactly what she had done.

Later they danced.

This time the conversation was easy. Too easy. They had to remind themselves not to behave like a married couple.

Darcy guided her through the figure and said quietly, "Bingley intends to remain through Christmas."

"Good."

"He is considering speaking to your father."

Elizabeth nearly missed the turn. "Already?"

Darcy smiled. "You disapprove?"

"No." She looked toward Jane, who was dancing with Bingley and no longer hiding every trace of happiness. "But let him do it."

"I have no intention of interfering."

"No pushing."

"I have pushed nothing."

Elizabeth gave him a look.

Darcy sighed. "I told him only that if he wished my opinion, I thought Miss Bennet cared for him."

"You used her Christian name yesterday."

He stiffened.

Elizabeth grinned. "Careful."

"Your sister will eventually be family."

"Presumptuous."

"Experienced."

They separated in the figure and came together again.

Darcy murmured, "Two."

Elizabeth looked at him. "What?"

"Two rules broken tonight."

"Only two?"

"Three if you continue looking at me like that."

"Like what?"

"My wife."