After a moment Elizabeth said, "And how long am I expected to suspend judgement while you improve your character?"
"As long as seems necessary. I thought perhaps if Georgiana extended an invitation to Pemberley… you could come to know me better"
"And once I saw your extensive grounds I could never say no? "
"That isn’t quite what I meant. Eliza—Miss Elizabeth, after much reflection I have realised that you are very different from other young ladies of my acquaintance."
She laughed again.
Mr Bennet looked back towards the picnic. Mrs Bennet was still with Miss Darcy and though she appeared to be discussing ribbon, her eyes had drifted more than once towards the path.
"And I truly believe you are the only woman who could make me happy."
Elizabeth shook her head, "You are very determined."
"I am."
"You always are, I suppose when it comes to getting your own way."
"Not always."
"No?"
"No. Only when something matters."
The answer seemed to quiet her and for a few moments neither spoke.
Then Elizabeth said, more softly, "You do realise that persistence is not always attractive."
"I am aware."
"And yet you persist despite me being exactly the wrong type of woman for the role you have in mind."
"Yes."
At that, she smiled despite herself. And Darcy reached out and captured her hand in his.
She did not immediately withdraw and Mr Bennet coughed aggressively.
Darcy had the good sense to release her hand immediately.
Elizabeth stepped back at once. "Papa."
Mr Bennet emerged from behind the rise with what he considered remarkable dignity under the circumstances. "Lizzy."
Mr Darcy bowed. "Mr Bennet."
The silence that followed was uncomfortable enough to satisfy nobody.
"I fear I have interrupted something."
"You have not," said Elizabeth quickly.
Mr Bennet looked from one to the other.
"No?"
"No."
