Mr Darcy had returned to the main room and was reluctantly in conversation with Sir William Lucas when Elizabeth next came his way. Sir William, noticing what held Mr Darcy's attention had the noble idea of suggesting they dance. "My dear Miss Eliza, why are not you dancing? – Mr Darcy, you must allow me to present this young lady to you as a very desirable partner. – You cannot refuse to dance, I am sure, when so much beauty is before you."

Sir William took her hand and presented it to Mr Darcy. At his touch, she felt a current of heat run through her. Blushing slightly Elizabeth glanced up at Mr Darcy and noticed he too seemed uncomfortable. "Indeed, Sir, I have not the least intention of dancing.-I entreat you not to suppose that I moved this way in order to beg for a partner"

"I would be honoured if you would oblige me by dancing, Miss Bennet," Mr Darcy stated, much to Sir Williams delight.

"Capital" Sir William cheered happy with his noble deed and left them to seek his wife.

"You are all politeness, Mr Darcy," Elizabeth demurred as they walked to their places. "I know how much you detest the act, unless you are especially familiar with your partner."

He gazed down at her, unsure whether she was teasing or reprimanding and replied, "I believe we have already covered this Miss Bennet. Was my apology inadequate in some way? If so, pray, how shall I make amends for my earlier rudeness?"

She flushed at her behaviour, resolving to give him a chance. "Your apology was quite sufficient Mr Darcy. Shall we attempt to begin this acquaintance again?"

She glanced up at him as the set began. The movement of the dance forced them to part for a short while, giving Darcy time to formulate his response. "That's quite generous of you Miss Bennet. I hope this time to prove myself capable of some civility,"

Elizabeth replied with mock gravidity, "As do I Mr Darcy."

They talked of inconsequential matters to begin with. Lizzy, though usually of a lively disposition was conscious that she had been singled out as the only person in the county that Mr Darcy had danced with. With a slight smile she reflected that perhaps she was tolerable. Darcy, noticing her pleasure commented, "It appears that despite not being inclined to dance you have found it tolerable after all." Lizzy gave a slight chuckle.

"Mr Darcy. I was just thinking the same thing." Mr Darcy rewarded her with a smile. It improved his appearance so much that Elizabeth was struck again by how handsome he was.

"Smiling suits you Mr Darcy. You should wear it more often." The dance finished and as he was leading her back to her friends he said quietly,

"Thank you Miss Elizabeth, for giving me cause to. I recently have found little to bring me joy. Especially in the last few months." He thought back to the incident at Ramsgate, his expression becoming quite severe again, wondering if it would have still occurred if he had been less distracted by his responsibilities. "Lately….I beg your pardon. I was thinking out loud." He muttered, aware that he'd said too much.

Despite her curiosity, Elizabeth allowed the comment to pass. "As you wish, Sir."

Mr Darcy returned her to her friends and walk to the other room to obtain refreshments for them and collect his thoughts. He was alarmed that he had nearly unburdened himself to her. He quickly returned with some punch and bowing, retreated to an isolated part of the room to gain some distance. He thought that if not for their stations in life he was in danger of becoming too close to Elizabeth.

Lizzy turned to Miss Lucas before she could open her mouth to speak and muttered, "Not now Charlotte. Not one word." Smiling smugly Charlotte acknowledged her wishes with a slight nod and began a discussion about the couples instead.

Miss Bingley standing with her sister, Mrs Hurst had observed the interactions between Mr Darcy and Miss Elizabeth. She had been in a position to observe Mr Darcy with members of the fairer sex for several seasons now and began to become alarmed at the preference he was showing towards Elizabeth. Never before had he singled out someone not intimately associated with his group for a dance. He performed the bare minimum expected in society. Indeed he rarely even stood up with herself or her sister and Charles and he had been friends for several years. He had never seemed to smile like that when dancing with her. Caroline was determined to become mistress of Pemberley, and was fuming at this country chit who dared to usurp her rightful place. She started formulating a plan that would put her in a desirable light while exposing dear Eliza to censure.