Page 128 of The Engagement at Longbourn

Jane smiled. “Mr. Bingley.” They joined the first set.

Elizabeth looked at Darcy.

He was looking at the floor. “No.”

He turned. “I said nothing.”

“You are thinking.”

“So I have been accused.”

“You cannot manage a full set.”

“I can manage part.”

“Fitzwilliam.”

“Elizabeth.”

They stared at each other.

Richard appeared between them. “As a military man, I recommend compromise before casualties.”

“Go away,” they said together.

Richard grinned and did. Darcy held out his hand. “One dance.”

“Half a dance.”

“One.”

“Three figures.”

“Four.”

“Three and the final turn.”

He considered. “Agreed.”

Elizabeth put her hand in his.

The room noticed. Darcy had not properly danced since the accident. He walked onto the floor without his cane. Elizabeth felt the tension in his hand.

“Do not prove anything,” she murmured.

“I am not.”

“Do not limp merely because you refuse to rest.”

“I will not.”

“And if it hurts—”

“Elizabeth.”

“What?”

His eyes softened. “Dance with me.”