What if Bingley and Darcy had stayed at Netherfield that first Christmas? Elizabeth Bennet’s Christmas plans are help Jane secure Mr. Bingley’s affections and avoid her mother’s matchmaking schemes. She certainly doesn’t plan on Mr. Darcy watching her every move with those intense, unreadable eyes. Just as she glimpses the man beneath the scowl, charming Edward Hardinge arrives from Liverpool. He brings exotic tales, dazzling geodes, and polished compliments. Darcy brings… brooding silence and occasional sarcasm. Perfect. Desperate to spend time with Elizabeth, Darcy arranges a sleigh expedition to gather Christmas greenery. What could go wrong? Everything, thanks to Caroline Bingley’s meddling. The resulting disaster strands half the party in a snowdrift, forces Elizabeth into ill-fitting riding clothes, and reveals exactly who keeps their composure in a crisis. It’s not Caroline. Between fiery parlor games, mistletoe mishaps, and midnight library confessions, Elizabeth discovers first impressions can be dangerously misleading. Edward’s charming attention hides surprising motives. And Darcy? Those flushed ears and fumbled words might mean something far different than disapproval. As the Christmas Eve ball approaches, Darcy must decide if his pride is worth sacrificing for love. Meanwhile, Elizabeth confronts an uncomfortable the man who infuriates her most is the only one who truly sees her heart. Who knew a merry little mishap could become the greatest blessing of all? Holiday setting • Jealous Darcy • Rival suitor • Winter mishaps • Parlor games • Family fun • Christmas ball • Witty banter • Period-perfect romance • HEA guaranteed