Page 78 of Twice Chosen

"No, Papa."

The word came softly.

Mrs. Bennet froze.

Elizabeth's heart pounded. She loved him. That had been the problem. Love had made excuses.

"Lydia is foolish sometimes," Elizabeth said.

Lydia frowned. "Thank you."

Elizabeth ignored her. "Kitty follows when she ought to think for herself. Mary tries too hard to sound accomplished. Mama says things we wish she would not."

Mrs. Bennet gasped. "Lizzy!"

Elizabeth continued before courage failed. "And you laugh."

Mr. Bennet stared.

"It is easier," Elizabeth said, her voice trembling now. "It is easier than helping."

No one spoke.

Darcy was not there.

Good.

This belonged to them.

Mr. Bennet stood.

For one frightening moment Elizabeth thought he would answer in anger. Instead he walked into the library and closed the door.

Mrs. Bennet rounded on Elizabeth. "How could you speak to your father in that manner? He has always adored you."

Mary interrupted quietly. "She was right."

Everyone turned.

Mary's eyes were wet.

Lydia stopped smiling. Kitty looked ashamed.

Mrs. Bennet sat down heavily.

Elizabeth went upstairs and cried.

An hour later a knock sounded on her door.

Mr. Bennet entered.

He looked older than he had that morning.

"You wounded me," he said.

Elizabeth swallowed. "I'm sorry."

"No." He sat in the chair beside the window. "Do not apologize merely because truth hurts."