Page 115 of A Question of Character

“I fear you are correct.”

She leaned toward him. “What troubles you?”

He hesitated.

Elizabeth expected him to dismiss the matter. But he rested his clasped hands upon one knee and answered with surprising seriousness. “It would scarcely be politic for me to discuss private disagreements.”

Lydia frowned. “Private disagreements?”

He offered an apologetic smile. “I would not wish either you or your family to think ill of Mr. Darcy.”

Elizabeth’s needle paused.

Lydia looked honestly astonished. “I cannot imagine why I should.”

Mr. Wickham studied the carpet before continuing.

“There appears to have been... some misunderstanding between us.”

“Can it not be explained?”

“I sincerely wish that it could.” He shook his head. “I confess I know not how to rectify it.”

Lydia’s cheerful countenance clouded.

“I dislike seeing anyone unhappy.”

“I shall recover.”

He brightened with visible effort.

“It is hardly fair to burden you with concerns that originated long before we became acquainted.”

“You are not burdening me.”

She spoke with unaffected warmth.

“If we are to be friends—”

Mr. Wickham interrupted gently.

“I hope for something rather better than friendship, Miss Lydia.”

Her cheeks colored a delightful shade of pink.

Mrs. Bennet, observing this from across the room, exchanged a triumphant glance with Jane.

Elizabeth hid a smile behind her teacup.

The cloud over Mr. Wickham did not fully disperse, but Lydia succeeded in drawing him into lighter conversation before long.

She related Kitty’s unfortunate attempt to bake seed cakes without consulting Hill.

Kitty protested.

“I followed the receipt exactly.”

“You omitted the sugar.”