Page 91 of The Engagement at Longbourn

"Do not gloat."

"I would never."

He offered his arm.

She took it. Meryton stared a little less on the walk back to the carriage. Or perhaps Darcy cared less.

CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR

Two Couples at Netherfield

A rainy afternoon trapped Jane, Elizabeth, Bingley, and Darcy in Netherfield's library with wedding lists.

This was Bingley's idea. It was not a good one.

"We must decide the breakfast seating," Jane said.

"Put everyone where they wish," Bingley replied.

Elizabeth looked at him. "That is not a seating plan."

"It is a philosophy."

Darcy, at the desk, said, "A dangerous philosophy."

Bingley looked offended. "Why?"

"Because Caroline wishes to sit beside Georgiana, Mrs. Phillips wishes to sit beside Lady Matlock, Lydia wishes to sit near the officers, and Lady Catherine wishes to sit nowhere because she is not invited."

Elizabeth burst out laughing.

Jane hid a smile.

Bingley said, "Very well. You do it."

Darcy looked at the list as though confronting an enemy troop arrangement.

Elizabeth leaned over his shoulder. "Do not put Mama beside the Earl."

"They like each other."

"Exactly. They will encourage one another."

"Your mother encourages herself without assistance."

"True. Put her beside Lady Matlock."

Jane said, "Mama likes Lady Matlock."

"Everyone likes Lady Matlock," Bingley said. "Except Lady Catherine."

Darcy moved a name card.

Elizabeth watched his hand.

"You have placed Mr. Collins nowhere."

Darcy looked up sharply. "Is he coming?"