A/N- I intended to make this a one shot but because of your incredible reviews I decided to continue. Keep reviewing!
Mr Darcy could not stop thinking about Elizabeth, or his Lizzie, as he had started thinking of her.
He was certain she could not love him, for she had already refused him once. But then why had she told his aunt that she would marry him if they both willed? It might have been sheer stubbornness on her part that prevented her from accepting orders, but it was unlikely. It was far more likely for her to declare to all how much she loathed him, for no courtesy had stopped her from saying that in the clearest possible words to him when he had first confessed her feelings to her.
But situation had changed since, hadn't they? He had done his very best to clear all misunderstandings between them, but he feared his best hadn't been good enough. He had tried to make amends and reunite Jane and Charles, and help cover up the elopement of Lydia. He hoped his attempts would soften Elizabeth's heart, yet he feared it would be no avail. After all, love cannot be created as such. It must come from within. He would be surprised if Elizabeth liked, let alone loved him.
But what if she did? She had been most civil to him, and gotten along excellently with Georgiana at Pemberley. And she might love him yet with time, for he sure hoped that she no longer despised him. Her episode with Lady Catherine may mean something, or nothing...
Oh! This agony was unbearable. Darcy could take it no more. He resolved to ask her how she felt, and be done with it. If her feelings were still unchanged, he would do his best to get over her. This was the best he could do. Elizabeth was wise and clear headed. She would do whatever she willed, and considered best. She would let nothing interfere with her feelings. This was on of the things he loved about her. Yes, he would ask her. He wanted her at all costs.
Suddenly his thoughts were interrupted by Mrs Bennet.