Page 84 of The Crown’s Gift

"You demanded only one word. Must I provide references?"

He laughed unsteadily. "I may require several repetitions."

"Then yes, Fitzwilliam Darcy. I will marry you."

He lifted her hand to his lips. The kiss lingered against her knuckles, warm and reverent. Elizabeth's breath caught.

Darcy lowered their joined hands but did not release her. "I love you. I have attempted to express it better than I did at Hunsford and discover the feeling still exceeds the language."

"Your language has improved."

"Sir Thomas's questions were instructive."

"Papa knew you would ask today?"

"He knew I intended it."

"And said nothing to me."

"He claimed that was the point."

Elizabeth looked toward Netherfield. "He will be insufferably pleased with himself."

"I shall endure it."

She turned back. "Will you? You must endure much worse. Mama will discuss lace before dinner. Lydia will ask whether Pemberley has handsome tenants. Mary may love Georgiana more than either of us. Kitty will sketch your nose from every direction."

"You forgot Lady Catherine."

"I was listing difficulties. She is an occupation."

Darcy smiled, but seriousness returned.

"Elizabeth, my aunt may not relent quickly. Some relations will be cold. I cannot promise you will never feel their disapproval."

"I do not require you to control them."

"No. But I will not leave you to meet it alone."

"That is enough."

He touched her cheek with the backs of his fingers. The gesture was tentative, asking. Elizabeth leaned into his hand.

Darcy bent slowly, leaving Elizabeth every opportunity to refuse. She raised her face.

His lips touched hers with exquisite care.

For one suspended moment, both remained still. Then Elizabeth's hand tightened on his coat, and Darcy kissed her again with warmth restrained by the open hillside and every promise of the future. His free hand rested lightly at her waist.

When they separated, his forehead touched hers.

"I have wanted to do that since Longbourn," he whispered.

"When I wore Miss Bingley's ill-fitting gown?"

"Before."

"At the assembly?"