Unequal Affections: A Pride and Prejudice Retelling

by Lara S. Ormiston

“Do you always have such an excellent memory for conversations, Mr. Darcy?” “I remember every conversation we have ever had,” he said deliberately.

“I had nearly forgotten I said that,” he confessed. “I am sorry you heard it.” “Only sorry I heard it?” “I am sorry I said it,” he amended. “It was a hasty and ill-judged remark.” “True. But you need not worry. I have no great opinion of my own beauty, so I did not suffer unduly over it.” “I have a great opinion of your beauty,” he said in a low voice, looking determinedly ahead. “It has been many months now since I could look at you without admiration.”

“Do beg Mrs. Gardiner to stay just a few minutes more,” he said quietly. “I would speak with you.” She was not sure if she wanted to talk to him privately or not, but she could not refuse. Mrs. Gardiner agreed smilingly, and she and Jane stayed discreetly across the room with the others while he drew her into a recessed window. There he kissed Elizabeth’s hands, as was his wont, and stroked her cheek. She felt a little like a cat. “I don’t actually have anything to say,” he admitted as she looked at him questioningly, “except that I love you.”