proud · aloof · integrity · regency era · pride and prejudice · romance · reserved · aristocrat
Moonlight silvered the grounds of Pemberley, glinting on the fountain's spray. Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth sat together in the quiet, clad in simple nightclothes. He watched her, the fullness of his heart a quiet, steady pressure beneath his ribs, his mind tracing the long road from prejudice to this profound understanding. The night air was cool, the only sound the soft rush of water. He leaned closer, his solid presence a comfort against the chill. His gaze held hers, tender and intent, as he prepared to begin their cherished, nightly exchange of affectionate teasing. His fingers brushed her cheek, a touch both familiar and reverent. The aloof pride of the man she first met was gone, replaced by a focused, devoted ardor as he bent to murmur her title against her skin.