But still… it did not mean he liked seeing it, and even less did he like suggesting any merit in such a match.
Oh, but no matter. If a woman existed in Hertfordshire who was just stubborn enough to disgrace herself by refusing an eligible match, it was this lady. She was… probably in no danger from Collins. No,Darcywas the one in danger, fromher, so he would use Collins as he saw fit for now.
When the final hymn concluded, Darcy rose along with the congregation, taking his time to make his way outside. The churchyard, now alive with chatter, offered the perfectopportunity to press his strategy further. He approached Collins, who stood near Elizabeth, practically vibrating with the opportunity to linger in her company.
“Mr. Collins,” Darcy said, drawing the man’s attention, “a fine sermon this morning, would you not agree?”
“Oh, indeed, Mr. Darcy!” Collins exclaimed, bowing deeply. “The lessons on diligence and virtue were most edifying.”
Darcy’s gaze shifted briefly to Elizabeth, whose eyes met his for the barest moment before she dipped a curtsey and turned away to speak with Miss Lucas. “And yet,” Darcy continued, “it seems that some virtues, such as liveliness and wit, were somewhat overlooked. I say, what true merit is there when other virtues are only displayed half-heartedly? Wouldn’t you agree, Mr. Collins?”
Collins’s face lit up. “Ah, yes, Miss Elizabeth is a shining example of such qualities. Her liveliness is a credit to her upbringing. Why, just the other day, she spoke with such energy on the subject of—”
Darcy held up a hand, cutting him off with a measured smile. “Miss Elizabeth’s qualities are indeed remarkable. I imagine Lady Catherine herself would commend your discernment in recognizing them.”
Collins beamed, his chest puffing out with pride. “You truly think so, sir?”
“I do. It takes a man of ambition to appreciate the value of a partner who could elevate all aspects of his life.”
Collins’s eyes widened as though the idea had only just occurred to him. “A partner of such caliber—yes, indeed! Lady Catherine would surely see the wisdom in such a match.”
“I have no doubt,” Darcy replied. “And as you are already well-placed to make your intentions known, I trust you will seize the opportunity.”
Collins bowed again, his movements jerky with excitement. “Mr. Darcy, your advice is always most insightful. I shall not delay!”
Darcy inclined his head, stepping back as Collins turned toward Elizabeth with renewed determination. Watching the interaction from a distance, Darcy allowed himself a small, satisfied smile. Collins, for all his absurdities, was a convenient distraction—one that might keep Elizabeth occupied and away from Wickham’s charms.
For now, it was a strategy. And judging by Collins’s eager demeanor, it was one already taking effect.
Elizabeth strolled up thelane from the chapel with Charlotte, the murmur of parishioners fading behind them. Behind her, Lydia and Kitty’s laughter carried as they lingered near the regiment’s officers. It was no surprise when Mr. Wickham detached himself from the group and strolled toward Elizabeth.
“Miss Elizabeth, you appear to have appreciated today’s sermon on virtues.”
“Do I? Why, Mr. Wickham, you must have been watching me rather closely.”
He chuckled. “I confess, I found myself glancing toward you for inspiration.”
Elizabeth raised an eyebrow, her lips curving faintly. “Flattery so early in the day, Mr. Wickham? I had not expected you to be so bold.”
“For such company, Miss Bennet, I can only be bold.”
From the corner of her eye, Elizabeth saw that Darcy had paused mid-conversation with her cousin, his attention shifting sharply to Wickham. He did not approach, but his posture stiffened, his gaze darkening as it rested on the pair.
Perfect.
Elizabeth caught the glance and turned back to Wickham with deliberate cheer. “And yet, boldness is a quality that requires careful cultivation. Don’t you agree, Mr. Wickham?”
Wickham grinned. “Careful cultivation, yes, but also a touch of daring. A balance I believe some find... invigorating.”
“Action without foresight often leads to regret,” came Darcy’s voice, cool and clipped. He had stepped closer, his presence now impossible to ignore.
Elizabeth’s head tilted slightly, her tone light but pointed. “An interesting observation, Mr. Darcy. Though I wonder if foresight sometimes lends itself to hesitation.”
“Or wisdom,” Darcy replied evenly, his gaze locked on hers.
Wickham’s smile did not falter. “Wisdom is admirable, of course. But life demands moments of spontaneity, would you not say, Miss Elizabeth?”
“Indeed,” Elizabeth said brightly. “Spontaneity can be most entertaining.” She turned her smile toward Darcy, letting it linger. “Though I imagine Mr. Darcy prefers his life governed by careful deliberation.”
