Chapter Nine
She walked slowly up to Netherfield, still with some misgivings, and determined not to arrive before Darcy. As it happened, she need not have worried; he was waiting at the door as she approached, and ushered her inside graciously. The chaise longue was set against the wall. In the centre of the room was a small table, on which stood a bottle of wine and two glasses, with a plate of small cakes.
“Should you care for some refreshment, Miss Bennet?” he asked.
Elizabeth accepted a little wine and sat down. Darcy sat beside her but not touching. “Perhaps we need to discuss one or two points first,” he said.
Elizabeth’s heart was pounding. “If you wish,” she replied.
“I take it that you consent to love-making, and that I may conduct myself as I normally should on such an occas
