Page 88 of The Crown’s Gift

"Only in temper."

Darcy looked toward the drawing room where Elizabeth and Jane sat together. "She expected to become mistress of Pemberley. I allowed her expectations to continue by ignoring them."

"You never encouraged her."

"I knew what she hoped and found it easier to say nothing. Her notice flattered me more than I cared to admit."

Bingley sighed. "Must we both become wise in the same year? It is exhausting."

"You may rest after the wedding."

"Jane says marriage is not rest."

"Miss Bennet is already wiser."

Caroline's hurt did not excuse her conduct, but Elizabeth understood its shape. A woman raised with wealth from trade and taught to seek security in rank had spent years arranging herself around a man who never intended to choose her. Now he would marry the country woman Caroline dismissed, while Bingley married that woman's sister.

Elizabeth did not require Caroline's affection. Jane required civility.

"Invite her to Netherfield," Elizabeth told Bingley. "Not for me. For a conversation with Jane before the wedding."

"She may refuse."

"Then the choice will be plain."

Darcy studied Elizabeth. "You would receive her?"

"I shall not hide the teaspoons."

"That is Christian generosity."

"Do not expect more before tea."

The invitation was sent.

Caroline accepted.

* * *

Caroline arrived at Netherfield alone.

She wore dove gray, a color too restrained to be accidental. Lady Bennet received her without effusion. Sir Thomas bowed. Darcy remained standing beside Elizabeth, neither hostile nor available.

Jane asked Caroline to walk in the conservatory.

"You need not come," she told Bingley when he moved to follow.

"I thought—"

"I know. This is between your sister and me."

Bingley sat again. "Of course."

In the conservatory, late roses climbed the glass. Jane stopped beside a stone bench but did not sit.

Caroline opened her fan. "I understand congratulations are expected."

"Honesty is expected. Congratulations may wait until they are true."