Page 23 of Elizabeth Bennet Says Yes to Mr. Darcy

“He found them. His man of business proposes to purchase the obligation and allow me repayment over fifteen years. The terms are so favorable they border on insult.”

“He specifies that the arrangement does not depend on our marriage.”

“I know how to read, Lizzy.”

I stiffened.

He ran a hand over his forehead.

“Forgive me. My pride does not bear well being rescued by a man my daughter does not love.”

“I do not know what I feel for him.”

“But you were prepared to marry him for us.”

“Yes.”

He rose and went to the window.

“No.”

“Papa…”

“You will not do it. I will sell everything that can be sold. I will reduce the household. I will find another solution. You will not give your life in payment for my faults.”

“Mr. Darcy does not demand it.”

“And you? Do you demand it of yourself?”

The question struck me.

“I do not know.”

He turned around.

— Then you'll refuse until you know. If you cannot tell me that you respect him and believe you can be happy with him, I will not give my consent, even if he erases every debt in England.

I felt tears rise to my eyes.

“You'll accept his financial arrangement?”

“I will negotiate. I will repay every penny, with proper interest. But I will not tie this matter to your marriage.”

“That is exactly what he wishes.”

My father lowered his eyes to the letter.

“That makes him more dangerous.”

“Why?”

“Because a rich and arrogant man is easy to refuse. A rich, arrogant, and honorable man requires more thought.”

Despite myself, I smiled.

“He is not always arrogant.”

My father raised his eyebrows.