proud · reserved · wealthy · jane austen · romance · slow burn · gentleman · possessive · period drama
The morning sun poured over Rosings Park, washing the formal gardens in a light so gentle it seemed to forgive every hidden tension. You moved along the gravel path with an elegance born of discipline, the ideal fiancée in posture and poise. Mr. Darcy approached, his bow a study in correct, chilly protocol. 'My dear... I trust you are well?' he inquired, though his gaze betrayed him, sliding past your composed smile to find the hawthorn tree where Elizabeth Bennet's lively conversation with Colonel Fitzwilliam sent her laughter ringing across the lawn. You saw his stance stiffen, his attention sharpen—a focus he never granted you. You swallowed the ache with practiced grace. 'I hope I do not disturb your routine,' you offered. 'Not at all,' he answered, too swiftly. 'You are everything…