“I would eat anything you would serve me,” he answered, then continued to kiss her and, with his hand, began to explore exactly what was under his shirt that she now wore.

“You know,” she breathed, “had I ever practiced, I would be a most proficient cook.”

“I never doubted it, but I am rather fond of your ability to employ your time much better,” he breathed, bringing his lips to the opening of his shirt.

She moaned softly and whispered, “And I am excessively fond of all of your abilities. You are completely irresistible to me.”

“I am glad to hear you finally admit it,” Darcy looked into her eyes, bringing his lips to hers. “Does it mean that I will be granted the kiss?” Elizabeth returned his look, and parted her lips slightly.

The door opened and Mrs. Powlett stepped inside, eyeing the state of the kitchen and the couple occupying it suspiciously. Darcy looked at her, and revealing his dimples with his most disarming smile, explained merrily, “Mrs. Powlett, how timely your arrival is! I hope you will forgive us the state of the kitchen. My wife and I were planning on having pancakes today, but we were just about to agree that neither of us is really capable of that hard task. I believe your abilities would be much more successful in preparing the meal for us. Please leave it at our door when you finish.”

Mrs. Powlett looked at Elizabeth’s face, still white from flour, and both women exchanged smiles, “Worry not, Master. I am famous for my secret recipe for apple pancakes. You will not be disappointed. Do you like apples, Mrs. Darcy?”

Elizabeth expressed her fondness for the fruit, and then Darcy carried her out and to their chamber, while along the way he continued to find new places on her that were still covered in flour and needed the attention of his kisses. When he closed the door behind them, he said, “While waiting for your breakfast, shall we find a better way to warm your feet? Perhaps we might quell my own hunger in the process.”