I stare at him. Was that—a joke?

Unease slips into Darcy’s stiff expression, and I realize he was joking. A twinkle of goodwill warms my chest. Humor! How encouraging. “Sorry. Jane’s just particular about who performs minor surgery on his head. He’s a real stickler about medical licensing.”

Darcy nods thoughtfully, though the corners of his mouth quirk.

“I’m gonna find a place for a proper scrubbing, then head to the hospital.”

“Bennet.” Charles stands, then sits quickly, pressing his temples.

“Easy there.” Darcy places a hand on his friend’s shoulder, giving him a few pats.

Charles takes in a long breath. “Bennet, I’d like to come, too. If you think Jane wouldn’t mind.”

I grin. “He’d like that.”

“Flowers, maybe?”

I nod, charmed by his nervous intensity. “That would go over well.” I turn to Darcy, wondering if he’ll be coming, too, but he’s frowning at his watch. The flicker of goodwill I was feeling for him gutters. This again?

“I have an appointment,” he mutters. “Would you like me to call you a car?”

“Oh, hell.” I frown, remembering my commitment at Pemberley. I’ll have to cancel. “Don’t worry about the car, thanks—the hospital is a quick subway ride from here.”

Darcy nods before eyeing Charles. “You’re sure you’re steady?”

“If I get woozy, I think Bennet is up to the task,” he says cheerily.

“Ms. Bennet is quite the caregiver.” Darcy says it with the same surprise as when he confirmed I climb, and I wonder if I should be flattered or offended.

I settle for indifferent. “What can I say? I contain multitudes.”

“So it seems.” Darcy studies my face like he’s searching for something. When his eyes land on my lips, his chest rises suddenly, heaving me back to the night at Meryton. My face goes flushed, the heat curling the edges of my indifference.

He sets his shoulders so firmly it looks as though he’s literally been reined back. “Give my best to Jane,” he rumbles, and turns to walk away.

I blink. That’s . . . it? I look to Charles for an explanation, but he just stands and sighs.

“Don’t mind him. We’re still looking for the spell that will turn him into a real boy.”

I nod, watching Darcy’s retreating form. Real boy or no, it is an excellent view.