Bingley came to him later, flushed with pleasure. “This is a charming evening, is it not?”
“For you, certainly.”
Bingley chuckled. “For me, yes. Miss Bennet is all that is amiable.”
“She is very beautiful.”
“Is she not?” Bingley’s delight deepened. “And kind. There is no artifice in her.”
Darcy glanced toward Jane Bennet, then to Miss Elizabeth beside her. “No. I do not think there is.”
“You still have not apologized.” Bingley sounded exasperated and amused in equal measures.
He shook his head. “No.”
Bingley smirked. “She avoids you very neatly.”
“I had noticed.”
Bingley grinned. “I almost pity you.”
“You almost enjoy it.” That much was evident.
“A little,” Bingley admitted. “Only because you deserve it. And because it is so rare that the great Fitzwilliam Darcy is bested by another.”
Darcy could not dispute him.
By the time the evening began to draw toward its close, he had made four attempts to speak with Miss Elizabeth.
The first had ended with Lady Lucas claiming her. The second, with Miss Lucas drawing her into conversation. The third, with Mary Bennet requiring some assistance concerning a piece of music. The fourth failed before it began, for Miss Elizabeth saw him approach, smiled at something her sister said, and moved away with such ease that Darcy could only admire the skill of it while resenting the result.
At last, the party was obliged to depart. Farewells were exchanged. Sir William expressed his gratitude in expansive terms. Lady Lucas pressed Bingley to come again. Miss Lucas curtsied with composure. The Bennets prepared to leave shortly after, and Darcy found himself with one final opportunity.
Miss Elizabeth stood near the door, fastening her glove.
He moved toward her. “Miss Bennet.”
She faced him, brows raised. “Yes, Mr. Darcy?”
The words were civil. Nothing more.
“I wished—”
“Lizzy, there you are,” Jane said, approaching. “Mama is ready.”
Miss Elizabeth’s gaze did not instantly leave Darcy’s face.
For one instant, he thought she might allow him to continue. Then she smiled. “Good evening, Mr. Darcy.” She turned and went to her sister.
Darcy stood with the sentence unfinished again.
In the carriage, the Netherfield party arranged itself with less cheer than Bingley might have desired.
Bingley, however, supplied enough satisfaction for them all. “A most agreeable evening. I cannot recall when I have passed one better.”
Mrs. Hurst leaned back against the cushions. “You are easily pleased.”
“I hope always to remain so.”
