Page 89 of Twice Chosen

During the third movement, Elizabeth felt two taps against the side of her glove.

Behave.

She looked at Darcy.

His face was perfectly solemn.

Elizabeth bit her lip.

Three minutes later she whispered, "She is murdering that note."

Darcy's shoulders moved.

Mrs. Gardiner glanced over.

Elizabeth looked innocent.

Afterward, as they entered the carriage, Mrs. Gardiner said, "You two have the strangest courtship I have ever observed."

Elizabeth nearly choked.

Darcy asked too carefully, "Why?"

Mrs. Gardiner smiled. "You behave as though you have been married for years."

Silence.

Elizabeth and Darcy looked at one another.

Mrs. Gardiner laughed. "I meant that as a compliment."

Later, when they were finally alone in the drawing room at Gracechurch Street, Elizabeth pressed a hand to her mouth and began laughing.

Darcy tried to maintain dignity for perhaps four seconds before joining her.

They visited Pemberley in spring with the Gardiners.

Elizabeth had not been meant to see it yet.

Darcy wanted her there.

Standing before the house young again was almost unbearable.

Mrs. Gardiner exclaimed over the view. Mr. Gardiner immediately began asking about fishing. Elizabeth simply stood.

Her home.

Not yet.

Darcy came beside her, close enough that their sleeves nearly touched.

Mrs. Gardiner said, "Lizzy?"

Elizabeth realized she was crying. "The view."

Darcy's fingers brushed her glove where no one could see.

Three strokes.