Page 80 of The Crown’s Gift

"He learned late. Perhaps that made him less ashamed of admitting it."

"I learned late."

Elizabeth held his gaze. "Not too late."

The words changed the room.

Darcy turned fully toward her. "Elizabeth—"

The use of her name was soft and unplanned.

Bingley's voice sounded from the corridor. "Darcy, the nursery ceiling is painted with birds. Did you know?"

Darcy closed his eyes.

Elizabeth laughed so suddenly she had to lean against the wall.

Bingley appeared in the doorway. "What happened?"

"You," Darcy said.

"I only asked about the ceiling."

"We shall explain when you are older," Elizabeth said.

Jane understood at once and drew her bewildered betrothed away.

Darcy faced her. "Tomorrow morning."

"Is that a request or a warning?"

"A request. Will you walk with me?"

"If the roof remains attached."

"I shall post guards."

Their smiles faded into something more tender.

The roof was repaired over the next week, but the discussion it began continued. Sir Thomas brought Mr Collins from Hunsford to review the long-term lease. Charlotte accompanied him and prevented three speeches concerning his future rights.

"Longbourn may not be mine for many years," Mr Collins said, glancing at Sir Thomas's healthy figure. "Which is, of course, an occasion for rejoicing."

"Then rejoice quietly," Charlotte murmured.

The renewed lease granted Bingley three additional years with protections for improvements he funded. When he and Jane eventually purchased elsewhere, Longbourn could be leased again until the entail took effect.

Sir Thomas also opened the matter of his daughters' portions. Ten years of income from both estates and careful investment had allowed him to set aside ten thousand pounds for each daughter, with additional income to Jane upon marriage and equal interests in Netherfield after both parents' deaths unless a different family arrangement was agreed.

Mr Collins looked stunned. Lady Bennet looked proud enough to ascend.

"They will not need Longbourn," Sir Thomas said. "But they will always be welcome in it while I hold the estate."

Charlotte studied the settlement. "This is fair."

Mr Collins began, "Lady Catherine might observe—"

"Lady Catherine called upon Netherfield yesterday," Elizabeth said. "Her observations have reached their allowance for the week."