Page 92 of The Engagement at Longbourn

She laughed. "No. I wished to see your face."

"Cruel."

Bingley leaned back. "I only briefly met him."

"Be grateful," Mr. Bennet's voice said from the doorway.

All four turned. He entered with Mr. Gardiner.

"We were driven from Longbourn by discussions of lace," Mr. Bennet said. "We seek asylum."

Bingley poured wine. The seating plan was abandoned in favour of cards. Jane and Bingley played against Elizabeth and Darcy.

This produced unexpected revelations. Bingley played cards exactly as he conducted conversation: enthusiastically, optimistically, and with insufficient suspicion. Jane played serenely and remembered every card.

Elizabeth bluffed.

Darcy did not.

"You cannot look that grave every time you have a good hand," Elizabeth told him.

"I look grave all the time."

"That is unfortunately true."

Jane won the first round. Bingley looked delighted, though he had contributed very little.

"We make an excellent pair."

Jane smiled. "Because I compensate for you?"

He stared.

Elizabeth laughed.

Jane's eyes sparkled.

"You have become wicked," Bingley said.

"I have sisters."

During the second round, conversation shifted to Netherfield.

"The owner has agreed to sell," Bingley said casually.

Jane dropped a card.

Elizabeth looked up. Darcy did not, which meant he already knew.

"Sell?" Jane asked.

Bingley smiled.

"If we want it."

Jane became very still. "Charles."

"I did not purchase it yet."