Page 224 of A Question of Character

He chuckled.

The sound washed over her, warming her from head to toe.

She thought she could happily spend the remainder of her life listening for that laugh. It suited him far better than solemn reserve.

“I should go to your father now. I wish for our engagement to be official.”

Though reluctant to relinquish him even for a short while, Elizabeth knew he was right. Mr. Bennet deserved the respect of being asked before congratulations overtook the household.

“Speaking of engagements, have you spoken with Mr. Bingley lately?” Elizabeth grinned.

The thought occurred so naturally that she wondered she had not mentioned it sooner. Jane’s happiness had occupied her mind as constantly as her own during the preceding weeks.

“It seems he and Jane are officially courting. Perhaps your proposal will encourage him to do the same.”

Darcy’s expression brightened.

“I sincerely hope so. No gentleman ever deserved success more than Bingley.”

“I fear I have been an abysmal guest. But Bingley seems to be managing without my aid. It will surely help his confidence.”

“You have been occupied with rather more pressing concerns,” Elizabeth reminded him.

“So everyone insists.”

“They are correct.”

Elizabeth shook her head.

“You must give him all the attention he requires. I expect you will remain at Netherfield until our marriage now?”

She looked at him expectantly.

There was comfort in speaking so naturally of their future together, as though the life awaiting them had already begun to take shape.

“Yes, I will. Georgiana is safely established with my aunt. Lady Matlock can be a tyrant if provoked, and she has been adequately inspired. As such, I imagine my uncle and cousins will be at our wedding. It is a shame…”

His smile faded a little.

“I regret that circumstances have deprived Georgiana of sharing fully in our happiness.”

Elizabeth’s heart softened.

“She will come in time,” she said. “When she has recovered, she shall always find a welcome at Pemberley.”

“Will your sister live with us upon our marriage?”

Darcy shook his head.

“Not for a time. I think she needs to be with my aunt, who will give her no quarter.”

“I suspect Lady Matlock possesses precisely the sort of affection Georgiana requires,” Elizabeth observed.

“Affection disguised as relentless discipline.”

She laughed.

“Perhaps the disguise is necessary.”