Page 93 of The Engagement at Longbourn

"Good."

Bingley blinked. Elizabeth looked at Darcy. Darcy looked back. Both silently agreed to remain out of it. Jane set her cards down.

"You said if we want it."

"Yes."

"Do you?"

Bingley opened his mouth.

Then paused. It was a small pause, but Elizabeth saw his growth in it.

"I think I do," he said. "I like the house. I like the land. I like being near Longbourn. But I do not want to buy it merely because I am happy here now."

Jane's face softened.

"Nor do I want you to buy it because you think I cannot bear to live farther from my family."

"I do not think that."

"Good."

Bingley took her hand. "Would you like to see the estate accounts with me?"

Jane smiled.

"Yes."

Darcy looked down at his cards. Elizabeth kicked his boot lightly beneath the table.

He looked at her.

She smiled.

He understood. Bingley was deciding for himself by deciding with Jane. Later, Darcy and Elizabeth stood alone by the library shelves.

"You knew," she said.

"About the sale? Yes."

"You did not advise him."

"He did not ask."

Elizabeth's brows rose.

Darcy sighed. "Not much."

"Progress indeed."

"I told him to inspect the drainage and roof before agreeing on price."

"That is nearly restraint."

He caught her hand before she could move away.

"You enjoy this too much."