Many thanks to my wonderful beta reader and co-author Sam. H.

PPP

Darcy was not particularly fond of dancing and attending balls, and despite his usual tendencies to avoid that kind of event, he had accepted the invitation solely because Miss Elizabeth Bennet would be among the guests. He was excited and all anticipation at the thought of seeing her that evening and planned on asking her for a dance, perhaps two. Darcy took extra care to dress himself impeccably, ensuring he was ready to leave the house half an hour early.

As he arrived at the ball, Darcy greeted his host and hostess and congratulated Miss Thompson on her coming out. He then proceeded to make his way to the corner of the ballroom, where he stood half-hidden by a column. He knew the Matlocks would not be present since they only attended parties hosted by families of similar or higher rank than themselves.

Just a few minutes later, Lord Hertford, Lord Yarmouth, the Gardiners and Elizabeth entered the ballroom. The attention of several guests already present were immediately drawn to Elizabeth, who was gracefully walking on the arm of Lord Hertford. Some recognized her as the young woman who had accompanied the Marquess to the theatre, and whispers began to spread around the room. Lady Thompson, in particular, could not resist the urge to share the news with her friend Lady Williams, who was known to be quite a gossip, that Miss Bennet was the niece of the Marquess of Hertford, and was a very good friend of her daughter.

As the Marquess' party approached the hosts, they greeted them with utmost courtesy, with special attention given to Miss Thompson. Lord Hertford, being a perfect gentleman, invited her to dance the fourth set of the evening and Lord Yarmouth the fifth set.

When Darcy's eyes landed on Elizabeth, he was left speechless. She looked breathtaking in her elegant blush rose silk gown, with intricate embroidery and delicate lace. Her hairstyle was perfectly styled, highlighting her natural beauty.

Darcy slowly approached Elizabeth, who was chatting with the Gardiners, Lord Hertford and Lord Yarmouth. After the courtesy greetings and small talk, Darcy invited Elizabeth to dance the third set. She accepted graciously, but not before agreeing to dance the first set with Lord Hertford and the second with Lord Yarmouth.

As soon as the orchestra began to play the first set, and Lord Hertford and Elizabeth started to dance, several people stared at them and commented about Elizabeth's beauty and grace. The chatting continued as Elizabeth danced with Lord Yarmouth, who amused her with his stories of Canada. Elizabeth enjoyed both sets; Lord Hertford regaled her with tales of her father and aunt, and Lord Yarmouth entertained her with his witty anecdotes.

Meanwhile, Darcy observed her intently as he conversed with acquaintances. To his dismay, he overheard some gentlemen speaking in admiring tones about Elizabeth's charm and allure.

As the third set was about to begin, Darcy's anticipation was palpable. Darcy and Elizabeth took their place on the dance floor, waiting for the music to start. For the first few minutes, they danced in silence. Then, Elizabeth asked, "How is your sister?"

"She is doing very well, thank you for asking. In fact, she mentioned she will have tea with you tomorrow. She is looking forward to hearing all about the ball from your perspective."

Elizabeth smiled, and after a small pause she asked, "Will you join us for tea, Mr. Darcy?"

"Indeed. I am curious to learn what ladies tend to discuss following a ball?"

Elizabeth hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to answer. After all, it was the first high society ball she attended in London, and it was quite different from the assemblies in Meryton. However, she assumed the discussion was similar to the ones she had with Charlotte and her sisters after an assembly. So, she replied, "Well, we usually talk about the ladies' gowns, fashion trends, people we met, and the gentlemen we danced with."

"Hmm, unfortunately, I will not be able to contribute to the discussion since I do not know anything about ladies' gowns and fashion trends. Do you think I should learn about these topics before Georgiana enters society?"

Elizabeth hesitated for a few moments and replied, "I think that will not be necessary. Georgiana has impeccable taste, and Lady Matlock will assist her." After a brief silence, Elizabeth smiling added, "My father used to retire to his study when my sisters, mother and I discussed gowns and fashion's trends. If you prefer, we can talk about books or music while we dance."

Darcy smiled at her suggestion, pleased to have another option for discussion. They continued to chat pleasantly for the rest of the set, exchanging ideas and opinions on various topics. Darcy found himself enjoying her company more and more as the dance progressed, and when the set ended, he could not help feeling a twinge of disappointment.

"Miss Bennet, might I have the honour of your final set? If it is still available?"

Elizabeth blushed becomingly, her cheeks nearly matching the colour of her gown. "Why, yes Mr. Darcy. That is, I am not sure how late Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner plan on remaining this evening, but I should very much enjoy dancing the last with you, sir."

After dancing with Elizabeth, Darcy only danced with Amelia Thompson and conversed with the Gardiners, Lord Hertford and Lord Yarmouth. But his eyes kept following Elizabeth as she danced with other gentlemen, especially the young and handsome ones. He had never been so jealous before.

As the night wore on and the ball was nearly over, Darcy could hardly contain the energy zinging through his body. His second dance with Elizabeth was next!

Darcy walked over to where Elizabeth stood. Her previous partner had brought her back to stand with the Gardiners.

"Mr. Gardiner, Mrs. Gardiner," Darcy smiled at them. "I hope there is no impediment to my dancing the last with Miss Bennet?"

"Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth informed me you had requested her final dance." Mrs. Gardiner gave him a knowing look. "All is well, Sir. We shall not leave until the dance is concluded."

Darcy held out his hand for Elizabeth's and guided her back onto the dance floor.

"Have you enjoyed the evening, Miss Bennet?"

"I have, Mr. Darcy. It was an exciting evening and I enjoyed it more than I expected to."

"You had not expected to enjoy yourself this evening?"

"I am a simple girl from the country, Sir. A complete unknown." Her eyes sparkled as she smiled. "It never occurred to me, my dance card would fill up by the end of the night."

Darcy raised his eyebrows at her, "And yet, Miss Bennet, it never occurred to me that your dance card would not be filled up by the end of the evening."

Elizabeth blushed and changed the topic, "I am afraid I have a confession to make."

Darcy kept his eyes on her as they turned in the dance. Her head tilted just ever so, giving away the tease sure to come. "A confession you say, shocking!" His mouth lifted on one side letting the dimple there appear and disappear swiftly.

"Yes, I am afraid I must confess, spending time with my uncle and getting to know him and my cousin better, was just a fraction more exciting than the ball itself." Her expression lit up with a smile.

His heart stuttered. Is that what she will remember about this evening? Darcy's feet began to feel like lead weights.

Elizabeth looked down, then gathering her courage she raised her eyes to meet his. "There is one other part of the evening I enjoyed just as much."

"Oh?"

"Yes." Elizabeth could feel heat rise and was sure her face was beet red. "I enjoyed our dances very much, as well."

Oh. Oh! Darcy gulped. Could she - did she… He beamed, oh to be on the receiving end of a tease from this woman. The young woman he met in Hertfordshire, from before her father's death, has reappeared. His two dimples presented themselves to her like a gift. "I, too, enjoyed our dances, Miss Bennet. Very much."