On the ride to Longbourn, Darcy had planned out exactly what he would say. He would acknowledge that the remark may have given offense. He would make an apology, which she would accept, and he would leave. But that was not what had happened. Having never been in such an awkward situation before, he had been uncomfortable, so much so that he had actually repeated the offending remark. After laughing at his ineptitude, Miss Elizabeth had taken him to task for his contradictory statements regarding what conversations were appropriate in a ballroom.

Sitting across from her, he had noted a playfulness in her manner that indicated she was not in the least bit in awe of his rank, wealth, or connections. This interlude also provided an opportunity to truly and honestly appraise her beauty. Although her face lacked symmetry, she was quite pretty with expressive dark eyes that reflected her intelligence and curiosity, and her smile was a reward in itself. By the end of their visit, he found that he wished to know her better, and despite plans to return to London, Darcy decided to accept Sir William’s invitation to come to his home.

Because Bingley was so eager to see Miss Bennet again, their party was one of the first to arrive at Lucas Lodge. In an attempt to soften the harsh impression he had left on those who had attended the assembly, Darcy joined Bingley in circulating about the room. In doing so, he learned that the Robinsons’ best milk cow had mastitis, Mrs. Long was still unhappy with just about everything, a certain Miss Conyers was visiting relations in London, and on and on. But there was only so much goodwill he was willing to impart, and he had sought refuge in a corner of the room where Sir William lay in wait.