Page 121 of Twice Chosen

"But she spent years arranging rooms to avoid her husband."

Darcy's expression softened. "I know."

Elizabeth folded the letter. "We changed this."

Darcy shook his head. "We opened a door."

"Pedant."

"She walked through it."

Elizabeth smiled. "Yes."

Charlotte did not rush.

That pleased Elizabeth most.

Mr. Avery courted her for nearly a year. He asked practical questions about whether she wished to remain connected to Lady Matlock after marriage. Charlotte asked practical questions about his daughter's schooling, household income, and whether he intended more children.

Elizabeth laughed for a full minute when Charlotte recounted the last conversation.

Darcy looked over his newspaper. "What?"

"Charlotte asked a man whether he wanted more children before agreeing to a second dinner."

Darcy considered. "Sensible."

"Of course you think so."

"Would you prefer she discover afterward?"

"No. I merely enjoy imagining the man's face."

Charlotte married Edmund the following autumn.

Elizabeth stood with her in a modest London church. There was no grandeur, no Lady Catherine directing the flowers, no Mr. Collins speaking too loudly about condescension.

Lucy Avery held Charlotte's hand throughout the breakfast afterward.

At one point Charlotte looked across the room at Elizabeth.

There was no dramatic declaration.

Only a smile.

Elizabeth understood.

That evening Darcy found her quiet.

"Happy?"

"Very."

"Then why do you look sad?"

Elizabeth leaned against his shoulder. "Because I remember the other Charlotte too."

Darcy kissed her hair. "Both lives matter to you."