Page 116 of The Engagement at Longbourn

“Then he has corrupted everyone.”

They dressed together with assistance from Hill and Mrs. Gardiner. Jane’s gown was ivory muslin over satin, simple and graceful. Elizabeth’s was cream silk with delicate embroidery at the hem, a gift from Lady Matlock she had initially protested was too fine.

Mrs. Gardiner adjusted Elizabeth’s veil. “You look like yourself.”

Elizabeth laughed. “Is that praise?”

“The highest.”

Mrs. Bennet entered.

She stopped.

No one spoke.

Her eyes filled. “Oh, my girls.”

Jane went to her first. Mrs. Bennet touched Jane’s cheek, then Elizabeth’s.

“I was beautiful at my wedding,” she said tearfully.

Elizabeth smiled. “I am certain you were.”

“Your father could hardly speak.”

From the doorway Mr. Bennet said, “I remember speaking quite well.”

Mrs. Bennet turned. “You dropped the ring.”

“I was overcome by your beauty.”

“You were nervous.”

“These are not mutually exclusive.”

Mrs. Bennet began crying again.

Mr. Bennet came into the room. He looked at Jane and Elizabeth. The humour left his face. “My daughters.”

Jane hugged him.

Then Elizabeth.

He held her tightly. “Still time to run,” he murmured.

She laughed against his coat. “I think not.”

“Pity. I had a horse ready.”

“Papa.”

He kissed her forehead. “Be happy, Lizzy.”

“I intend to.”

Outside, carriages waited. The church bells began to ring.

CHAPTER FORTY-FOUR