Page 37 of See, Hear, Speak No Evil, Mr. Darcy
“This will not do. I must insist you are more taciturn than amused, sir, for you are far too handsome when you smile. If you do so when we are arguing, I will forget I am vexed with you.”
“You think me handsome?”
“You know you are a very handsome man, Mr. Darcy.”
“William.”
“Yes, William.”
“I know others have said it, but I had no notion ofyourthinking so. I hoped to demonstrate my conversational skills so you might find me tolerable, if not handsome enough to tempt you. Knowing you think me so handsome as to tempt you into forgetting your anger? I promise only to remember it should we ever have cross words between us.”
“I do think you very handsome, not that I should admit it a third time.”
“Elizabeth,” Darcy said in near veneration, capturing her face in his hands. “The very night we met, I was arrested by your goodness. Entranced by your artless nature and enticed when you were near. I know not if it was because your relations spoke so often of you to Bingley and me, but I felt an immediate, if unaccountable, connection with you. After our first dance, but half an hour later, I did not want to let you leave my side. I beg you to have mercy and say you will marry me soon.”
“Yes, William, and I promise to let you leave my side only if youmust.” Elizabeth turned her head, pressing a kiss to one of the palms.
“You have made me the happiest of men.”
His eyes filled with tears necessary to relieve his abundance of emotion, and hers had already dropped to her cheeks. Darcy caressed them away with the pads of his thumbs. The combination of vulnerability, welcome, and trust found in one another was their undoing. Darcy kissed her with the passion they both had confessed to. When he pulled back to apologize, she pulled him to her and kissed him until she was breathless.
“Have mercy, my love.” Darcy groaned, pulling her against him.
“Oh,” she whispered against his lips.
“Wanting you has been driving me to the edge of my control these last weeks.”
“I would apologize, but I cannot find it in me to repine.” Elizabeth took his hand, guiding him back to their rock.
“I will come to Longbourn at noon.”
“I anticipate there will be some excitement when we tell our news, and for good reason. My mother will have a daughter who is marrying a man worthten thousand a year.”
“We are worth much more, my love.”
“You, as you are, are the man I always wished for. My greatest joy comes from your finding me.”
“One we share.”
“It bodes well that you already agree with my decisions without argument. But you mentioned a second topic warranted contemplation this morning?”
“My opinion will not be sought, but I cannot help worrying. I have always considered my cousin Anne a dear relation, and I fear how my aunt will treat her when she returns to Rosings Park.”
“Given what I have heard while at Netherfield Park, I understand your position.”
“I am more like Anne’s older brother since I am two years her senior. I must say, she often worries me.”
“Your caring for her makes every sense. You are blood family.”
“According to my uncle, Lady Catherine was furious when Anne chose to depart with him, given that she is of age. Any assertion on Anne's part to claim her inheritance and become the mistress of Rosings Park will cause strife. It is a position Lady Catherine guards with great zeal.”
“Anne will be mistress? Poor Mr. Collins,” Elizabeth said, pleased to see her humor drew a smile from her betrothed. “Is it your hope to have someone who will assist Anne to stand against your aunt? One who will treat her with all deference of an elder and daughter of an earl, but who will not allow herself to be intimidated?”
“Precisely.”
“It is no wonder you struggled with how to tell her you believe she needs such assistance. Do consider your sister, having had the guidance of my dearest friend. I am certain Charlotte will aid Miss de Bourgh should matters arise which require it.”
“I rather suspect she might. I shall bring up my concerns and caution her. Lady Catherine loves nothing more than to cause disruption.”
