Page 72 of The Engagement at Longbourn

“And Lizzy has accepted without medical coercion?”

Darcy’s face tightened with embarrassment. “Yes.”

“Excellent. I approve.”

Darcy blinked.

Mr. Bennet smiled. “You expected a longer interrogation.”

“I expected some questions.”

“I have had three months to question you without your noticing.”

Darcy considered this and found it entirely plausible.

Mr. Bennet poured two glasses of port. “I did not like you when you first came to Hertfordshire.”

Darcy accepted a glass. “Few people did.”

“That is not true. Half the mothers liked your income immediately.”

Darcy almost smiled.

Mr. Bennet’s expression sobered. “I thought you proud. I still think you proud.”

“I am.”

“I thought you too conscious of rank.”

“I was.”

“And I thought you looked at my family and saw only our ridiculous parts.”

Darcy did not evade it. “I did.”

Mr. Bennet’s eyes sharpened.

“But,” Darcy continued, “I saw them poorly because I judged without knowing. Your family has faults. So does mine. Lady Catherine alone balances several Bennets.”

Mr. Bennet laughed into his port.

Darcy said, “I cannot promise never to be embarrassed.”

“Good. Lydia would make a liar of you before breakfast.”

“I can promise never to use embarrassment as an excuse for contempt.”

Mr. Bennet lowered his glass. “That answer will do.” He stood and held out his hand.

Darcy took it.

“Take care of her.”

“I will.”

“And let her take care of you when necessary. You are both far too fond of believing yourselves indispensable.”

Darcy smiled faintly. “Yes, sir.”