“For military purposes, naturally,” Elizabeth replied with unconcealed amusement.
“Naturally.” Darcy’s dry tone suggested he was nomore convinced than she was. “My cousin has always been dedicated to his duties.”
“And Mrs. Bell has a wealth of knowledge she can share with him about Mediterranean politics and trade routes,” Elizabeth added diplomatically. “And shopping.”
“Quite knowledgeable.”
The colonel gestured animatedly as he explained matters of importance to Prudence, who listened attentively and responded with what appeared to be pertinent questions. The rapport they demonstrated suggested their discussion had moved beyond purely professional matters.
Elizabeth said, “This expedition may prove transformative for more than just ourselves.”
“I agree,” Darcy replied. “Though I confess my primary concern remains our own development.”
The word ‘our’ was not lost on Elizabeth. “And how do you assess our progress thus far?”
No longer distracted by his cousin, Darcy gave Elizabeth his full attention. “I am more hopeful than I dared expect. You listen to my thoughts without immediate judgment. Your questions help me understand myself better. You challenge my assumptions without attacking my character.” He paused. “You are helping me to discover who I might become rather than defending who I have been.”
Such candor deserved an equally honest reply. “And I am learning who you truly are instead of the man I assumed you to be. Your humility about your past mistakes, your concern for Miss Darcy’s happiness, your willingness to question your own motives—these are not the qualities of the man I once thought you were.”
A shout from Captain Morrison directed their attention to a change in the ship’s heading as they rounded a prominent cape. The coastline here was particularly dramatic, and they were drawn to a magnificent view of towering cliffs topped with ancient watchtowers, the weathered stones golden in the afternoon light.
“We are making excellent time,” the captain called to them. “We should pass Cartagena within the next day or so and be well into French waters soon enough.”
The mention of French waters sent a slight chill through Elizabeth, reminding her of the broader context of their journey. “Do you think we shall encounter difficulties in French territorial waters?”
“Captain Morrison seems confident in his ability to navigate such challenges,” Darcy replied. “And Richard’s military contact at Gibraltar provided current information about any particular risks.”
“I had not fully considered how thoroughly this expedition places us in harm’s way. Not just from Mr. Wickham’s pursuit but from the larger conflicts surrounding us.”
“Are you having second thoughts about continuing?”
Elizabeth considered this and said, “Not at all. The dangers are real, but so are the opportunities to learn and see so much, and for learning who we might become under such extraordinary circumstances.”
As the sun climbed higher, painting the Mediterranean in shades of sapphire and gold, Elizabeth reflected on the astonishing changes she had experienced in such a short time. Darcy was proving to be a man of unexpected depth and feeling, someone whose companyshe enjoyed. He courted her with thoughtful attention and genuine respect.
She did not love him.Yet.She would accept nothing more than a courtship until she did.
21
That evening, Darcy found Mr. Bennet in the ship’s galley, where the older gentleman had claimed a corner table as his private study. Books and papers were spread before him in what appeared to be organized chaos.
Darcy approached, and he looked up with mild surprise. “Mr. Darcy. How may I be of service? I warn you, if you seek entertainment, you will find me poor company. I am attempting to correlate Professor Drye’s clue with what I remember of Roman topography from the many maps I keep at Longbourn.”
“Then I will take but little of your time.” He noted the older man’s erect posture, his relaxed smile. “I cannot help but note that this journey has been good for you, sir.”
“I should say so. The salty air and bright sun, when added to the thrill of this expedition, have invigorated me. I will admit only to you that I was starting to fear Mrs. Bennet’s proclamations about being turned out ofLongbourn would come true sooner than either she or I would like. Between theMary Catherine’ssimple meals and the amount of exercise it takes to remain upright on a moving ship, I shall return to her a much healthier man.”
“This is good news. Not only for your wife but for your daughters as well.” Darcy steadied his nerves. “Actually, sir, I am here to speak on a more personal matter. I wish to discuss my intentions regarding Miss Bennet.”
Mr. Bennet set down his pen with deliberate care and leaned back on the bench, as the scholar gave way to the father “Ah. I wondered when this conversation might occur. Please be seated.”
Darcy squeezed himself onto a narrow bench, acutely aware of how the confined space seemed to intensify the gravity of the moment. “Sir, I have asked Miss Bennet’s permission to court her, and she consented. I felt it proper to inform you of this and to seek your approval.”
“Courtship, is it?” Mr. Bennet regarded him with an amused glint. “A formal approach for a treasure-hunting quest in the Mediterranean. Tell me, Mr. Darcy, what manner of man seeks to court my Lizzy?”
The question was precisely as expected. “I am a man of considerable fortune and property, which brings responsibilities I take seriously. I am devoted to my sister’s welfare. I am…I am completely in love with your daughter, sir.”
“And what sort of husband would you be to her?”
