Page 76 of Engaging Mr. Darcy
“Poor Kat. She’s enjoyed living with Jane. I didn’t think it would work out, but she’s such a better person when she’s not hanging around Lydia so much.”
“Has she considered college?”
“Last time I talked to her, she wanted to be a physical therapist. But before that, it was veterinary school, beauty school, and law school.”
“She’ll figure it out.”
Elsie smiled at him, amazed at the support he gave her family, whether they deserved it or not. He’d told her on more than one occasion that Kat was a misunderstood genius. He patiently allowed her mom to treat him like a servant, tolerated Lydia, and listened when Mary talked his ear off about weird subjects, but he genuinely enjoyed spending time with her dad, Jane, and Kat. She couldn’t ask for more than that.
He pulled up to the house, and they got out to pack a few things for the weekend. “I’ll grab snacks,” he said, heading for the kitchen.
Elsie went down the hall to get the suitcase she’d left on her bedroom floor, but froze in the doorway, staring at her bed. Her pillowcase had been switched out with a new one. Will’s handsome, insanely angry face glared back at her, above the words, “The Me Monster.”
“Will!”
He came up behind her, leaning down to rest his chin on her shoulder. “It would be a shame to let such a beautiful piece of art stay hidden on your computer.”
“It’s terrible.”
“It reminds me of how we met.”
“Does this mean I get to dig my old ‘Me Monster’ T-shirt out of my drawer and wear it home?”
His laughter tickled her ear. “I’d prefer you didn’t.”
“Don’t worry. I’ve never been tempted to wear it again. I’ve almost thrown it out several times.”
“What held you back?” he asked.
She smiled and turned to look at him. “Like you said, it reminds me of how we met.”
“See.” He loved it when she admitted he was right about something.
“Thanks for the pillow. I think.”
“Every marriage needs a few inside jokes, Els.” He leaned down to kiss her, and as he did, he picked her up, carrying her back to the front door.
“My suitcase,” she protested.
“I’ll get it. Grab the snacks, temptress.”
She laughed and headed to the kitchen to retrieve the cooler from the island counter. Her imagination was already working on ways to surprise him back. Life as Mrs. Darcy would be quite the adventure.
