A Matter of Prudence by Lucy Marin

He could hardly stop thinking of Elizabeth, and no longer tried to convince himself that he should.

Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy is drawn to Elizabeth Bennet from the day they met, captivated by her cleverness, her charm, and her good humour. While he initially sees only a friendship between them, his feelings for her soon grow more ardent, even while he tries to persuade himself she would be an unsuitable bride. At length, however, his pride and his prejudices must be laid aside; he knows that to be happy in marriage is more important.
ALAS JUST AS HE GROWS CERTAIN of his own heart and mind, a problem reveals itself. Mr William Collins, a cousin of the Bennets who has lived in Longbourn since his boyhood, returns to Hertfordshire. The fondness between Elizabeth and Mr Collins is clear and Darcy begins to fear there is an understanding between them. His fears are confirmed by Miss Caroline Bingley who warns him that the pair are on the brink of matrimony.

A chance encounter when he is visiting his aunt, Lady Catherine, changes everything. Deceptions are uncovered and friendships end, but is it too late for him and the woman he loves?