Page 164 of Pride and Prejudice Resolutions

Caroline found herself relaxing, the tension in her shoulders easing as the Darcys bickered with the familiarity of people who genuinely liked each other. It was strange. And oddly comforting.

The Colonel was still staring at her. "If you are certain you do not need assistance—"

"I am certain."

"Then I shall leave you to your tea."

He did not move.

Caroline raised an eyebrow. "Colonel. You are still standing in the doorway."

"I am aware."

"Then kindly remove yourself from it. You are blocking the light."

Lord Keathley snorted into his teacup. "Oh, I like her. Richard, she is delightful when she is eviscerating you."

"She is always eviscerating me," the Colonel muttered. But he was smiling. Just slightly. "Very well, Miss Bingley. I shall leave you to your salon. Try not to traumatize my brother."

"I make no promises."

He bowed, turned, and left. The door clicked shut behind him.

Silence.

Then Mrs Darcy leaned forward, her eyes gleaming in wonder. "Miss Bingley. That was extraordinary."

"What was?"

"The way you handled him. Most women simper when Richard arrives in uniform. You told him to move because he was blocking the light."

"He was blocking the light."

"He was checking to ensure you were safe," Lady Keathley chimed in. "He stormed in here like a knight charging into battle. For you."

Caroline's throat tightened. "He was being ridiculous."

"He was being protective," said Miss Darcy.

"Why would he be protective of me? We barely tolerate each other."

The three women exchanged glances that made Caroline feel deeply uneasy.

"Miss Bingley," Mrs Darcy said, setting down her teacup. "How much do you know about the Colonel's current predicament?"

"What predicament?"

"The deadline," Lady Keathley explained. "Easter. His father's ultimatum."

Caroline frowned. "I know the Earl expects him to marry. But what does that have to do with me?"

Another exchange of glances.

Mr Darcy, who had been silent through most of the exchange, sighed. "Elizabeth. Do not meddle."

"I am not meddling. I am clarifying."

"You are scheming."