Page 121 of The Crown’s Gift

"That was a very long answer," Mary said.

"I am a barrister. We are trained to fear brevity."

She laughed, and the last of the fear loosened.

Before the Bennets returned to Netherfield, Mr Avery asked Sir Thomas for permission to correspond with Mary. Sir Thomas first confirmed that Mary wished to receive his letters, then questioned him about income, family, law, and the moral implications of publishing music under initials. Mr Avery emerged pale but returned the next day.

Mary and Mr Avery wrote for the remainder of the winter. Their letters discussed music and law, but also irritating relatives, favorite walks, household economies, and the books each had abandoned halfway through. Georgiana encouraged Mary to answer honestly whenever old habit tempted her to write only what sounded accomplished.

"He must court you," Georgiana said, "not the version of you who never disagrees."

Mary folded Mr Avery's latest letter. "He has already met the version who interrupts legal advice."

"And returned."

Mary smiled. "Yes. He returned."

Darcy enjoyed the evolving Bennet household from a safer distance. At Pemberley, Elizabeth received letters and read portions aloud. Lydia's were the most entertaining.

I have completed Miss Harwood's course in household accounts and discovered that candles cost enough to justify darkness. Mrs Forster says I may assist with the regimental charity again, though Papa has forbidden me from addressing unmarried officers without another lady present. This is unreasonable because married officers may be just as silly.

Darcy folded the page. "She has a point."

"Do not encourage her."

"I am expected to answer honestly."

"Marriage has made you troublesome."

"Your family deserves credit."

Elizabeth sat beside him on the library sofa, one hand resting unconsciously low upon her abdomen. She had been tired for weeks. Certain foods turned her stomach. The date she expected each month had passed unnoticed during travel and Kitty's presentation.

Darcy followed the movement of her hand.

Their eyes met.

"Elizabeth?"

"I do not know."

Hope and fear entered his face together.

"Shall we send for the physician?"

"Tomorrow. I wish to hold the possibility one night before everyone begins telling me what to eat."

Darcy covered her hand with his. "What do you wish me to do?"

"Hold it with me."

He drew her against him.

They sat in the library as evening gathered, saying nothing, the possible future no larger than the space beneath their joined hands.

* * *

The physician confirmed that Elizabeth was with child.