“And we are to dine with the officers.”
“That was the plan.”
Bingley crossed the room, then turned back.
“We cannot leave them here alone.”
Darcy said nothing.
Bingley continued, more firmly now, “It would not be right.”
“No.”
Bingley’s expression brightened again, though with a different kind of energy.
“We shall go,” he said. “We must. But we need not remain long.”
Darcy gave a slight nod. “That would be a reasonable compromise.”
“Yes,” Bingley said. “We shall dine, pay our respects, and return.”
“Promptly.”
“As promptly as may be managed without giving offense.”
Darcy allowed the suggestion of agreement.
“That should suffice.”
Bingley resumed his seat, though his attention had shifted from the papers before him.
“I am glad you told me,” he said.
“It seemed necessary.”
“Very.”
Darcy stood a moment longer, then gave another nod before withdrawing.
The plan, such as it was, had taken shape.
It was not perfect.
But it would serve.
The opportunity remained.
That was enough.
Later that evening, as they prepared to depart for their engagement, Bingley spoke again.
“We shall not linger,” he said, adjusting his gloves.
“No,” Darcy replied.
Mr. Hurst, already prepared, made no comment.
The carriage waited.
