Here's how the word "conspiring" works in this context:
* Intrigue and secrecy: "Conspiring" suggests a sense of hidden motives and secret knowledge. The word implies that Tom and Daisy are engaged in something that is not entirely above board. Their white attire, typically associated with innocence and purity, contrasts sharply with the "conspiring" nature of their expressions, adding to the unsettling feeling.
* Guilt and manipulation: The comparison to children who know they'll be punished reinforces the idea of guilt and wrongdoing. Their "conspiring" faces suggest they are aware of their own flaws and their potential to hurt others.
* Controlling nature: Tom and Daisy, as characters, are known for their controlling and manipulative behavior. The word "conspiring" highlights this aspect, suggesting that they are plotting something against Gatsby or anyone else who stands in their way.
* Unspoken truth: Fitzgerald's use of "conspiring" subtly hints at a deeper, unspoken truth about their relationship. Their "conspiring" faces suggest a shared knowledge of their own flaws and their willingness to maintain a facade of perfection.
By choosing "conspiring," Fitzgerald adds a layer of ambiguity and complexity to the scene. It hints at a deeper, more sinister reality behind the seemingly perfect facade of Tom and Daisy's life. The word helps to create a sense of unease and foreshadows the eventual downfall of their carefully constructed world.