“She will ask questions,” Thomas said.
“Many questions,” Toby agreed.
“About everything,” Thomas continued. “About Jane. About Lizzy. About everything they say.”
Darcy’s mouth settled into a firm line.
“That would not surprise me.”
Toby leaned forward slightly. “But this is perfect.”
Darcy folded his arms. “Is it?”
“Yes,” Thomas said. “You must apologize.”
“Tonight,” Toby added.
“You must not waste this chance.”
Darcy considered.
The situation evolved quickly in his mind.
Miss Bingley, with Jane and Elizabeth Bennet under her roof.
Bingley absent.
Himself absent.
Or—
Darcy appraised the boys.
“You are certain of this invitation?”
“Yes,” Thomas said.
“We heard Mama say so,” Toby added.
Darcy drew a breath.
“This alters matters.”
“It improves them,” Toby corrected.
Thomas nodded. “Very much.”
Darcy allowed a small pause.
“You have a great deal of confidence in my ability to make use of it.”
“You must have confidence,” Toby said.
“Or we shall not forgive you,” Thomas added.
Darcy’s expression shifted, though only slightly.
“I begin to understand the terms of your forgiveness are not easily satisfied.”
