Page 82 of Twice Chosen

Darcy's mouth twitched. "If Mrs. Bell spends much of the summer with Mrs. Forster, there will be another adult in the household."

Elizabeth considered. "That is not controlling Lydia."

"No."

"It is also not leaving a fifteen-year-old to the supervision of a woman scarcely out herself."

"Precisely."

The arrangement was made through Colonel Forster, who admitted with some embarrassment that his wife had perhaps underestimated the demands of supervising a young guest during an encampment season.

Elizabeth spoke to Lydia privately before the departure.

No sermon.

No prediction.

"Lydia, if a man ever asks you to keep a secret from everyone who loves you, come to me."

Lydia frowned. "Why?"

"Because good affection rarely requires isolation."

"That's very serious."

"I know."

"Are you talking about Mr. Wickham?"

Elizabeth froze.

Lydia rolled her eyes. "I'm not stupid."

"No."

"You all think I am."

Elizabeth's heart hurt. "I have behaved as though I did."

Lydia stared.

"I'm sorry."

Her younger sister looked suspicious. "Why are you always apologizing now?"

"Age."

"You're twenty."

Elizabeth laughed. "Terrible age."

Lydia smiled despite herself.

Then she said, "I liked Mr. Wickham."

"I know."

"He likes everyone."