I shall never be like him.

Marrying a penniless girl would be irresponsible and selfish. He was Fitzwilliam Darcy. He would not break his vow, not even to marry the woman he loved...

Darcy’s father had been reckless, self indulgent, and extravagant. He sold part of the ancient holdings and left the estates with vast debts. Despite years of effort, Darcy still owed a huge sum. Then Georgiana eloped with Wickham, and Darcy needed to borrow thirty thousand more for her dowry.

Elizabeth was perfect. Beautiful, clever, wise, and sweet. She loved him and wanted him as much as he desired her. But he needed to marry a rich woman. A woman like Bingley’s sister.