Page 28 of Twice Chosen

"Everyone has."

"Not like you."

The answer stole her breath.

They stood in Netherfield's corridor while voices drifted from the drawing room behind them. Elizabeth could end this now. She could ask him plainly. But fear held her still.

What if he did not remember?

What if all of this was coincidence woven together by longing until it looked like certainty?

Worse, what if he did remember and did not want the life they had lived?

That thought had not occurred to her until that moment. Perhaps old Darcy's last thought had not been to find her. Perhaps he had awakened young again and felt free.

Elizabeth stepped back.

Darcy's expression changed immediately. Concern replaced challenge. He knew that withdrawal. Of course he did. He had learned, after years of marriage, not to pursue her when she needed room.

"Miss Elizabeth?"

She forced a smile. "I should return to the others."

He did not stop her.

That, more than anything, frightened her.

Darcy watched her go.

Bingley appeared at the end of the corridor carrying two glasses of wine and wearing the expression of a man who had discovered entertainment. "What did you say?"

Darcy took one of the glasses. "Nothing."

"She looked upset."

"I know."

"Then perhaps you should apologize for nothing."

Darcy almost laughed despite himself. "You are becoming very wise."

"I like her."

Darcy stiffened.

Bingley rolled his eyes. "Not like that. I like her for you."

Darcy stared at him.

Bingley smiled. "You look less miserable when she is in the room."

"An extraordinary recommendation for marriage."

"Marriage?" Bingley repeated with delight.

Darcy closed his eyes.

Bingley's grin widened. "I said nothing about marriage."