Jump to new as of January 15, 1999
Jump to new as of January 16, 1999
Jump to new as of January 19, 1999
Chapter 1
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a professor in possession of multiple degrees must be in want of a wife.
"Oh, Mr. Bennet! I have just heard the most wonderful news! There is to be a visiting professor from North University next semester who is rich and single! He's filling in for one of the history professors who is going on leave. The history department hopes that he'll like Meryton College so they can offer him a permanent position. Isn't that a fine thing for our daughters?" cried Mrs. Bennet.
"Mrs. Bennet, keep your voice down. People are trying to study in the library. Even if the door to my office is closed, it's still not soundproof."
"Oh, just to show how rich he is, guess which house he's taken! He's going to settle in Netherfield, that house that no one has been able to afford. They say that he inherited enough money from his father that he doesn't need to work, but he teaches because he likes it," Mrs. Bennet rambled on, oblivious to her husband's request.
"What's his name?" asked Mr. Bennet.
"Bingley."
"Oh yes, I recollect reading some of his published work."
"Oh, what does it matter what he's written! The more important thing is that he might fall in love with one of our daughters!"
"Is that why he's agreed to teach at Meryton College?"
"Well, he might fall in love with one of them, you know. He and Jane might run into each other. He's in history, and she's in classics; they both study people that are already dead so they should like each other. That's why you have to get to know him. Show him how to use the library or something. Mayor Lucas and his wife are planning to get to know him. They know he might be good for one of their girls," chattered Mrs. Bennet.
"My dear, since he's published many papers and books, I assume he knows how to use a library. I'll just send him an e-mail telling him he's welcome to marry any our girls. I'll throw in an extra recommendation for Jane and Lizzy, of course," teased Mr. Bennet.
"Jane is, of course, an angel, but Lizzy doesn't deserve any extra praise. With her looks, Jane didn't need to get a Ph.D. Why does she like to study 2,000 year old junk and languages no one even uses now? But at least she's using her degree. Look at Lizzy...she threw away a perfectly good university professorship to teach high school students. What was she thinking? There's no money in that! Lydia and Kitty have so much more sense than Lizzy since they've gone into acting and modeling. They didn't spend the thousands that Lizzy did on her degrees, and they could make millions in a couple years!"
"Lizzy is doing what she loves. Can't you see that money doesn't really matter to her? Kitty and Lydia are silly and ignorant like other girls, and I would be highly surprised if either could even make a living on acting and modeling alone."
"How can you say that about your very own children? You don't care about my nerves at all! If you did, you'd get to know Professor Bingley so that I could calm down my nerves! Even if twenty men like him flooded your office, you still wouldn't care about your daughters' future in society!" cried Mrs. Bennet.
"Trust me, when there are twenty, I'll get to know them all," answered Mr. Bennet. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a meeting in ten minutes with some faculty members."
As Mrs. Bennet left his office, she got out her cell phone to inform her sister, who was a secretary to the Dean of Faculty, that she was on her way to visit. She chattered endlessly on the phone as she walked out of Longbourn Library, ignoring all the "shushes" and annoyed glances.
Mr. Bennet was glad that his office was back to its normally quiet state. He had been Longbourn's head librarian for many years, and was well suited to the job. He loved books, and spent quite a bit of extra time at work, partly also to avoid his wife. He had been attracted by her good looks, and married her shortly thereafter. He later discovered that she was quite shallow, but was content to devote most of his life to work and spend the rest of the time teasing her. Mrs. Bennet had also worked for Meryton College for a number of years as a secretary. However, she had semi-retired from her job because of her hysteria problems. However, she still came in for a few hours each week to work, but her real motive was to gossip with her co-workers.
Chapter 2
"Lizzy! Where are you?" called Jane Bennet as she entered the house that she shared with her younger sister, Elizabeth.
"Upstairs," a voice answered, "I'll be down in a minute."
Jane entered the kitchen to check the calendar which she and Elizabeth used to keep track of their schedules. "Thank goodness! Lizzy's having a party for her students here tomorrow. Wonderful!"
"Why this sudden enthusiasm for my student get-togethers, Jane? I thought you hated the fact that we never had any food left after my students visited."
"Lizzy, you know I love your students. They just eat so much. I thought the school year didn't start for another week. Why's this party so early?" asked Jane.
"Well, they're growing boys and girls. Don't worry, I'm going to the supermarket tonight to stock up on food. This gathering is for my Advanced Placement physics students. I've met a few times over the summer with the ones that signed up last spring to get a head start on learning the material. Why are you so happy about them coming over, though?" asked Elizabeth.
"Mom wanted to invite herself over tomorrow night to tell me about the new history professor. I think she already has wedding plans in her mind," explained Jane, rolling her eyes. "At least I can put her off until we go to dinner at Mom and Dad's this Sunday."
"Are you sure that we have to go this Sunday? Since we went last Sunday, we don't have to go until next Sunday, right?" asked Elizabeth hopefully.
"In your dreams, Lizzy. We had Charlotte here last Sunday, remember? Mom spent the last Sunday dinner describing all the single men that she knew between the ages of 20 and 45 to you, and she gave you a copy of "The Rules" as a gift. Whatever happened to that book, Lizzy?"
"I stuck in the donation box at the public library."
Jane continued, "I don't see how you get to complain about Sunday dinners, though. Mom usually lets you off the hook to go chat with Dad in the library, while Mrs. Hill is preparing dinner. On the other hand, I'm stuck listening to why we should wear shorter skirts to attract men and how my biological clock is ticking. Kitty and Lydia are coming back home from their 'experiment' in Hollywood. Mary's coming, too."
"I hope Dad is a little more firm with Kitty and Lydia this year, too. I tried to persuade him against letting them take a year off to try out acting, but he thought it wouldn't do any harm. I guess Mary is coming home for a few days before she goes back to Guild University. I wonder how her summer job at Darcy Airlines went. She was telling me in May how she was going to design a new computer system for them," said Elizabeth.
"I'm lost when Mary tries to explain computers to me. At least we'll have more company when Mom starts to lecture on how flirting and short skirts are better than degrees for catching husbands," said Jane, trying to look on the bright side.
"Yes, but if Lydia is back, there's going to be twice as much conversation on miniskirts and flirting," groaned Elizabeth, "Don't forget that we're meeting Dad for lunch tomorrow at Emma's Grill."
"It's in my appointment book. Don't worry, I wouldn't miss lunch with Dad for the world," said Jane.
"I stopped by Longbourn to see him today after his meeting. Apparently, Mom annoyed a lot of the summer session students studying for finals with her chattering and cell phone. He wanted me to tell you that Mom thought you and Professor Bingley would be perfect for each other because you both liked to study people who were already dead," teased Elizabeth.
"Wonderful," moaned Jane. "I just cannot wait for Sunday dinner."
Chapter 3
"So, William, how's your book coming along?" inquired Charles Bingley as he entered William Darcy's office at the Darcy Airlines headquarters.
"Well, it's going slowly. If I could just write full time, I could probably finish in two or three months, but I'm swamped with work here. I really wish I didn't have the responsibility of taking over the company after my father retires. It'll just get worse then because I probably won't even have my evenings free for writing like I do now," answered William. "What are your plans for the rest of the year since you're not teaching at North?"
"I decided I wanted to try teaching at a smaller school so I that I don't have to lecture to five hundred students at once. I'm teaching at Meryton College next semester since one of their history professors is on leave. I came here to talk to you about that, actually. Why don't you take some time off from business? You haven't had a vacation since you started at Darcy Airlines after getting your MBA. I'm sure your father wouldn't mind, and your cousin could probably handle everything for a few months," said Charles.
"Getting someone to do my work isn't the problem, Charles. I just feel bad that I'm not as devoted to the company as Richard and my father are. That's why I don't feel right about taking a vacation," said William.
"For heaven's sake, you haven't taken a vacation in five years! You deserve some time off. Come on, William, you can finish writing your book at Meryton. It's a small, pleasant college in the Hertfordshire countryside. I've leased a wonderful house with gorgeous grounds outside," implored Charles Bingley.
"Are your sisters going to be with you?" William Darcy asked warily. He could not stand Caroline and Louisa. Louisa wasn't as bad because she didn't talk as much and she wasn't the one chasing after William.
"Unfortunately, yes. But you don't have to be around them if you don't want to. They should be busy designing their spring line of clothes, anyway. It'll be a good change in scenery for you," reasoned Charles.
"Why are they leaving the city at all? I would think that two fashion designers would rather be in a metropolitan area," inquired William.
"Who knows…I've never understood their fashion - too many feathers and rhinestones and too much orange. So, are you coming?"
"Well, I guess so. Unless something major comes up, count me in. You've got to promise to keep Caroline as far away from me as possible, okay? The society is probably full of rustics, though. What is it, a one street town?"
"Well, no. There are two main streets, but it's a pretty lively college town. Everyone in the town and campus seemed really friendly when I visited." Charles was glad that he had talked his friend into taking a much-needed break. He was thankful that his own father had sold his business rather than have Charles take over.
William Darcy was an executive at Darcy Airlines, and he was expected to take over when his father, George Darcy, decided to retire. William, however, was not looking forward to that day. He had published two successful novels in the last eight years under the pen name W.D. Pemberton, and always wished he could write full time. Only those closest to him knew about his writing career.
George Darcy sighed after his son left his office. He should have realized sooner that William was not happy in the business world. Yes, he was good at his job, but he hated it. William had not come out and said that, but George could sense that his heart wasn't in Darcy Airlines. He felt guilty for causing William to think that he had a responsibility to the company, whether he liked it or not. He decided that it would be best to let his nephew, Richard, take over the company after he retired, and he would tell William to pursue writing full time after he got back from Hertfordshire. George knew the boy had a talent for writing and that he would be much happier if relieved of his company duties.
Chapter 4
On Saturday morning, Jane and Elizabeth sat in their kitchen eating breakfast and leisurely reading the newspaper. They had chosen to move closer to town two years ago since Jane taught at Meryton College and Lizzy at Hertfordshire Regional High School. Their parents' house, in contrast, was about ten miles away from the center of town. Getting away from their mother was another bonus, of course. Both dreaded tomorrow's dinner, especially since Mr. Bennet had told them their mother was getting more and more excited as the fall semester approached. A knock sounded at the front door.
"Mary! You're back!" cried Elizabeth as she opened the door and gave her sister a hug.
"You look wonderful! Your hair and your clothes look so different!" said Jane, hugging Mary as well.
"I decided to move away from the computer geek look, Jane. Well, I had a wonderful summer working at Darcy Airlines. I'm very happy to tell you that the new computer system is running smoothly. I'm only going to be here for a week before I go back to Guild, though. Do you mind if I stay here rather than with Mom and Dad? I really don't need to listen to Mom prattling on about how men don't like women who are into to 'technical junk,' as she puts it," said Mary.
Jane laughed, "Well, if it makes you feel better, she thinks that I study 2,000 year old junk! Of course you're welcome to stay here. Prepare yourself for Sunday dinner, though. Kitty and Lydia are arriving at Mom and Dad's tonight. I feel really sorry for Dad."
Mary groaned, "I was hoping this might be a non-Sunday dinner weekend."
"Hey, you've been able to avoid them for a pretty long time since you've gone to school at Guild, so don't complain. Mom gave me a copy of "The Rules" two weeks ago since she felt my man-catching skills were lacking. She's sure to be talking about Professor Bingley tomorrow night. She's already sure that he and Jane are fated for each other." said Elizabeth.
"That reminds me of some news that I have to tell you: I met someone when I was working at Darcy Airlines. He likes me despite my study of 'technical junk'! Doesn't that prove Mom wrong? Jane, Lizzy, he's wonderful. Don't tell Mom, though!" warned Mary.
"What's his name?" asked Jane.
"Richard. He's some executive there. I'm not really sure what he does. We met after I crashed into him getting off the elevator. I was reading a report and I just didn't see him and all of our papers went flying. I was wearing that nice outfit that you gave me for my birthday, and I just felt so strange in it, but he made me feel so beautiful when he looked at me. I've been converted to your classic style, Jane. We never saw each other again at Darcy headquarters, but we met almost every night for dinner, movies, walks,…all that good stuff. Guild is only half an hour from ---City so we'll still be able to see each other," said Mary.
"How wonderful!" exclaimed Elizabeth, "Don't worry, we wouldn't dream of telling Mom. We've missed you, Mary. When will you be done at Guild?"
"I'm still working on my dissertation so I'm guessing that I'll definitely be done by next year. I'm still not sure what I want to do after, though."
Jane interrupted, "Let's move this conversation inside, you two. Do you only have one bag, Mary?" Mary nodded.
"I'm so sorry, Mary. I shouldn't have kept you standing on the porch. You must be hungry, too," said Elizabeth. The three women entered the house.
Kitty nervously rang the doorbell to Jane and Lizzy's house, but if she had to listen to Lydia say one more thing about Hollywood to Mom, she was going to go insane. She had never been very close with her older sisters since she and Lydia were closer in age, but now she wanted to get to know them better.
"Kitty! What are you doing here? I thought you were staying with Mom and Dad," said Elizabeth, surprised, as she opened the door.
"I thought I'd drive here to visit you and Jane since Dad is out tonight, and I don't want to hear another word about Hollywood guys or florescent skirts, and I definitely don't want to watch one of Mom's tapes of 'As Soon as the Day Breaks' episodes." answered Kitty.
Elizabeth felt as though someone could knock her over with a feather. Had an alien taken possession of Kitty's body? Come to think of it, Kitty's wardrobe seemed toned down from a year ago, too. "Sure, come on in. Mary just got here this morning, too. We thought that we wouldn't see you until dinner tomorrow."
Kitty received hugs from both Jane and Mary as she entered the living room. "How was your Hollywood experience? Did you enjoy auditioning for soap operas and modeling jobs?" asked Jane politely, not knowing what to say.
"I got bored with it," said Kitty, "I hated the whole soap opera and modeling thing. Lydia loved it, though. I learned that I wanted to do some more serious acting, like Shakespeare, so I went back to school, actually. I took classes at Los Angeles Community College while Lydia did whatever she wanted to do. I did act in two plays the college did, though. I want to try to transfer into Meryton for the spring semester. If I go to Hertfordshire Community College for the fall and combine with the work I did in LA and before I dropped out of school, I'll have about two years of credit that I can transfer in the spring."
Her three sisters looked stunned. Mary was the first to recover, "That sounds wonderful, Kitty. We're so glad that you'll be back in Meryton for a while."
"What did Mom think about your plans?" asked Jane.
"She said I was crazy for wanting to act in plays where no one spoke decent English and that I'd be better off auditioning for roles in 'General Hospice Room' or 'In the Cove of Santa Montabella.' I don't care what she thinks, though. For once, I know what I want to do, and I'm not just following Lydia wherever she goes. I wanted to tell Dad, but he's gone somewhere tonight."
"Welcome to the club, Kitty," said Elizabeth ruefully, "We should get our fill of decent conversation tonight and brace ourselves for Hurricane Mom tomorrow night."
Note: Thanks to Kristopher for "As Soon As the Day Breaks," Nora for "General Hospice Room" and Jimmy for "In the Cove of Santa Montabella." I also decided to give Jane and Elizabeth some moral support in tolerating Mrs. Bennet (I think you'll see why in Chapter 5!) so I've changed Mary and Kitty somewhat. What do you think so far?
Chapter 5
"Dum da dum dum," sang Elizabeth ominously as she, Jane, and Mary trooped up the porch steps. Mary gave Elizabeth a withering look. Jane sighed and rang the doorbell.
"Jane! Lizzy! Mary! Come in! Come in!" cried Mrs. Bennet as she flung open the door, "Kitty and your father have gone for a walk, but they should be back in half an hour. I have so much news for you!"
Lydia shrieked when she saw her sisters enter the living room, "I have so much to tell you all about Hollywood and all the guys that I met and all the new fashions I learned and all the parties that I went to and …"
Mrs. Bennet interrupted, "I'm first, Lydia. You can tell your sisters everything after I'm done." Lydia sulked. Mrs. Bennet continued, "I have found the perfect matches for you all. Your Aunt Philips checked the tarot cards this morning to confirm my instincts. You're all fated to be with these men!" Jane, Elizabeth, and Mary raised their eyebrows, but Mrs. Bennet rambled on, "Jane, do you remember the Professor Bingley I was telling you about over the phone?" She went on without waiting for Jane's answer, "Well, he likes to study people who have been dead for a pretty long time, too. Not as far back as you, Jane, but that doesn't matter, does it? I don't think he does those weird languages you like, Jane dear, but I think he reads that awful English that Kitty is starting to love. What has gotten into that girl? She used to be so sensible. Look at her now! She'd rather do those senseless English plays with horrible writing over 'In the Cove of Santa Montabella'! He's terribly rich, Jane. You could hire someone to turn those horrid Greek and Latin books into decent English instead of slaving over it yourself."
Jane tried to speak, "Mom, I enjoy doing translations…"
Mrs. Bennet ignored her and continued, "Think of all the jewelry and cars you could have. Jane, dear, what do think about a lovely June wedding?"
"Mom! I haven't even met the man yet, and you're already planning a wedding! Please just let things happen, Mom," exclaimed Jane.
"I've had all your weddings planned for ages, girls. But none of you has a potential husband yet! Nothing's going to get done if I don't help you! Oh, and your father's no help either. He probably could have fixed you girls up with the sons of his friends, but he never cared, no matter how much I begged. But that's no matter now! Oh dear, I just realized that I have to look for a husband for Kitty soon, too, since she's not likely to do it on her own now that she's obsessed with that dead writer. Why couldn't you girls have Lydia's initiative for getting to know boys?"
Thankfully, Mr. Bennet and Kitty entered the house before Mrs. Bennet could continue. Mr. Bennet headed straight for Mary to give her a hug, "I'm so happy you decided to come home for a few days before going back to Guild! I don't blame you for staying with Jane and Lizzy instead of here," he whispered in her ear.
"Dinner is ready," Mrs. Hill announced, "It's on the table, and I'd better be off. Good night!"
A chorus of "Good night, Mrs. Hill!" sounded as she walked out the door. Everyone then moved into the dining room.
As soon as everyone was served, Mrs. Bennet picked up where she left of, "Let's see, where was I? Oh yes, Lizzy dear, I was about to tell you about the man that I found for you. His name is Billy Joe Collins. He's the nephew of Mrs. Barry, who's a friend of Mrs. Rizzo, who's one of your Aunt Philips' closest friends. In order to get his inheritance, he has to marry a Bennet since we're distantly related to him. He seems like a lovely young man who knows the importance of getting married. Did you look over that book I gave you, Lizzy dear? You should try those techniques when Billy Joe comes to visit in a few days. They'll come in handy to make dear Billy Joe fall madly in love with you." Elizabeth almost choked. "Don't scare him by talking too much about those invisible particles or that relativity mumbo-jumbo, either, Lizzy!"
"Mom, I'm really not interested. I don't think he sounds like my type," said Elizabeth.
"Are you going to argue with the tarot cards? You two are destined for each other! You'll love him, Lizzy! Mary, I found you a pretty rich man, too. He's a businessman on the Internet. He's wonderful at multiplying money without stocks or funds, and he's into computer stuff, too. We've been e-mailing, and I told him all about you," continued Mrs. Bennet.
"Mom, I am not even going to consider a man you met on the Net who probably runs a pyramid scheme. End of story," said Mary emphatically.
"Mary, you're not as young as you used to be! Your biological clock should be telling you something! What did I do to deserve four daughters who don't care about their futures at all? Where did I go wrong in raising you all?" wailed Mrs. Bennet.
Note: I really don't know anything about tarot cards or anything like that. It just seemed like something Mrs. Bennet would do. I've never read "The Rules," either, but from what I've heard, the system seems pretty silly to me.
Chapter 6
After dinner, Mrs. Bennet and Lydia were glued to the television watching "Burning Passions on Paradise Beach" on the UGH! Network. The rest of the family gathered in the family room, glad that the third-rate TV movie would occupy Mrs. Bennet and Lydia for the next two hours.
"Thank goodness, we'll finally be able to have some sensible conversation! I have to warn you girls, though, that it's going to get a lot worse with your mother for a while. Added to the fact that Professor Bingley and Billy Joe Collins are coming, the town just approved a TV series' request to film a little outside of Meryton. It should help the town economy and all, but your mother is going to go through the roof when she finds out that the show's being produced by David Forster," said Mr. Bennet.
"Is it supposed to be 'General Hospice Room' type of show?" groaned Elizabeth, "I think you're forgetting something else, Dad: Lydia is going to go through the roof, too!"
"Well, well, it can't be helped. Mary, how have you been? I haven't had a chance to talk to you yet," said Mr. Bennet.
"I'm just working on my dissertation. My job at Darcy Airlines went really well. I've never been happier, Dad," answered Mary.
"Good to hear, Mary. You girls have enough sense not to take your mother's matchmaking seriously, right? She seems to be more desperate than usual, though. Professor Bingley seems like a decent fellow, though. He was giving himself a tour of the College yesterday, and he stopped in my office to introduce himself. Don't tell your mother, though. I'd never have a moment's peace between now and the Fall Gathering if she knew that I'd seen him!" exclaimed Mr. Bennet.
"Don't worry, Dad. Our lips are sealed," said Jane.
"Oh, do you know what I heard from Emma Woodhouse? She went to Austen University with me and she works at Highbury Publishing, remember? W.D. Pemberton's next novel is supposed to be published by the beginning of next year. I can't wait. It's been four years since his last book," said Elizabeth.
Kitty asked, "Is anymore known about him other than the fact that he's written two novels in the last eight years? I read his two books last year since I remembered how you loved them."
"Kitty, you've just gotten Lizzy started on her favorite subject," laughed Jane, "I'm sure she can recite passages and tell you everything about Pemberton's life."
"Actually, I can only do the former, Kitty. Nothing is known about him or her at all. Pemberton is a pen name, and he or she's never given any interviews or hints as to who he or she is. I wish Pemberton wrote a little faster, though, but I guess I can't complain. Quality's better than quantity, right? Oh, I forgot to ask you about this before, Kitty: Do you want to move in with me and Jane for a while? We have that extra room, and you'd be much closer to Hertfordshire CC living with us." said Elizabeth.
"I'd love to! I feel guilty say this, but it would be so much easier to go to school away from Mom. When could I move?" asked Kitty.
Jane answered, "Mary's using the room right now, but we have a sofa-bed in the living room if you're really anxious to move."
"I'm sorry to leave you, Dad, but you're able to get away from Mom by going into the library. She hardly ever disturbs you there, but she makes me follow her around and listen to everything she says!" said Kitty.
"Honey, I understand perfectly. It would be much easier for you to study living with Jane and Lizzy, too," said Mr. Bennet, "Is anyone available for lunch tomorrow?"
"Lizzy and I can't make it, Dad. I've got a department meeting and Lizzy's got a staff meeting," said Jane apologetically.
"I'm not either, Dad. I'm going to see Charlotte Lucas about transferring into Meryton in the spring," said Kitty.
"I'd love to, Dad. I'm leaving for Guild day after tomorrow so this will be our only chance to really talk," said Mary.
"Dad, do you have any idea of what Lydia's plans are now that she's back at home?" asked Jane.
"You should really insist on her returning to school, Dad," added Elizabeth.
"But, Lizzy, it wouldn't do any good if she doesn't put any effort into it. She has to want to go to school, like Kitty," reasoned Mr. Bennet, "I'll give her one more semester off, and I'll try to insist that she enroll for the spring semester."
Alas, all too soon, "Burning Passions at Paradise Beach" was over, and Mrs. Bennet and Lydia came into the living room.
"Jane, you really should go shopping with me and Lydia to get some clothes for the Fall Gathering. Really, your wardrobe is so inadequate for formal occasions. No bows or frilly lace…why don't you ever wear that fuschia, teal, and yellow dress that I got you?" said Mrs. Bennet.
"I'm sorry, Mom. I just can't make it anytime before Fall Gathering. I have a department meeting tomorrow and I, I have a, a…"
Elizabeth came to her rescue, "A lot of things to get ready for the fall semester, right?" Jane had never been a very good liar, and Elizabeth did not want her to have to go to Fall Gathering in one of her mother's monstrosities.
Jane looked at Elizabeth gratefully. "Yes," she said.
"Well, Jane, try to wear something flashier than you usually do. Do you have anything with lots of gold sequins?" asked Mrs. Bennet.
"Um, I'll…I'll look in my closet," said Jane.
"Mom, Dad, we really should be going. We'll see you on Friday at Fall Gathering, Mom. Kitty, are you coming with us?" said Elizabeth standing up.
"Yes, I'll just come back to get some things later in the week. Bye, Dad. Bye, Mom," said Kitty.
Jane and Mary said their good-bye's and the four of them left before Mrs. Bennet could go into hysterics over Kitty moving to Jane and Elizabeth's house.
Chapter 7
"Really, Charles, why should we go to this fall party?" asked Caroline Bingley petulantly, "It's not as though anyone important is going to be there. We could have a nice evening at home together. Don't you agree, William?" Caroline looked at him coyly, batting her eyelashes.
William had been about to ask Charles the same thing, but he realized that an evening almost solely in the company of Caroline Bingley would be even worse than a large party. He replied, "I don't think that this fall party will be that bad, Caroline."
Charles looked at his friend incredulously. If William had said that he was going to go dressed as Bozo the Clown, Charles could not have been more surprised. He had expected William to be the most difficult to convince. "Besides, we can get acquainted with the people in the town and the College. This party is supposed to be a very old tradition that starts off the year."
"It's a silly way to spend the evening," said Bert Hurst, his brother-in-law. He was married to Bingley's other sister, Louisa, and his main purpose in life seemed to be eating, drinking, and playing cards.
"It's supposed to be wonderfully catered," said Charles, "and there's supposed to be a bar, too." His brother-in-law was then convinced to go.
Caroline looked disappointed that her plan of spending the evening in William's company had failed.
"Yes, I was telling Kitty that she has an excellent chance of transferring into Meryton in the spring. Her application has to be submitted in the fall, and it's great that she's taking classes at the community college. I'm so surprised by how much she's grown over the past year. It's a transformation from the Kitty of last year," said Charlotte Lucas, Elizabeth's closest friend and Meryton College's Dean of Admissions. "She's living with you and Jane, right?"
"She moved into our extra room after Mary went back to Guild University. Jane and I knew that she would go bananas living with Mom and Lydia. Can you believe that she wanted Jane to wear a fuchsia, teal, and yellow dress tonight? Thank heavens, Jane went with a simple black dress," said Elizabeth.
Jane and Kitty walked over to join Charlotte and Elizabeth. "Are we complaining about Mom again?" asked Kitty. Elizabeth rolled her eyes, as if to say "what else?"
The dance on the floor ended, and at that moment, Charles Bingley and his party walked into the room. Everyone seemed to stop and stare. Mayor Lucas approached him and profusely welcomed him to Meryton.
"Do you know who the other people are, Charlotte?" asked Elizabeth.
"The two women are his sisters. One of them is married to the man there," said Charlotte.
"The taller one?" asked Kitty, looking at William.
"No, the other," answered Charlotte.
"Better and better," said Elizabeth.
"Jane! Elizabeth! Come here!" called Mrs. Bennet's shrill voice. The two sighed and moved towards their mother. "I've just heard the most wonderful news about that taller man. His name is William Darcy. He's an executive at Darcy Airlines, and he's supposed to take over when his father retire. Bingley's wealth is nothing in comparison to his. Isn't he dreamy-looking, girls?"
"He wouldn't be quite as good-looking if he weren't quite so rich," said Elizabeth, although she had to admit to herself that he was very handsome.
"Oh, oh, they're looking at us, girls. Smile!" commanded Mrs. Bennet.
On the other side of the room, Charles Bingley asked the mayor, "Who is that beautiful blond woman?" as he looked at Jane.
"Jane Bennet. She's a classics professor. In fact, the Bennet family is full of wonderful women. They're all capital…capital. I'll introduce you to Mrs. Bennet so that you can get to know all of them," said the mayor as they walked across the room.
"Mrs. Bennet, Mr. Bingley just said that he would like to get to know you and your daughters," said the mayor.
"How good of you! This is Jane, my eldest. She teaches at Meryton College. Then comes Elizabeth, and she teaches at the high school. My middle daughter, Mary is away at Guild University. Kitty and Lydia are dancing over there. Kitty is only a student, but Lydia is an actress and a model," said Mrs. Bennet.
"Miss Bennet," said Charles, looking at Jane, "may I have the next dance?"
"It would be a pleasure," answered Jane.
"How good of you! And you, do you like to dance, too?" asked Mrs. Bennet, glancing at William.
"I hardly ever dance, ma'am," said William.
"Let this be one of the times that you do, then. I bet you won't find better music or prettier girls anywhere," said Mrs. Bennet, tilting her head meaningfully at Elizabeth.
"Please excuse me," said William curtly. He certainly did not want to be caught in this horrible woman's schemes for her daughters.
Elizabeth observed the people around her since a slight shortage of the opposite sex had left her without a partner for the next dance. She glanced at William Darcy. Why had that man even bothered to come if all he was going to do was stand around doing nothing?
William stood observing the festivities around him, looking bored. Why had he agreed to this anyway? The only time he went to parties were business related. He repeated a mantra to himself, "It's better than being alone with Caroline. It's better than being alone with Caroline,…"
Charles excused himself from Jane momentarily to approach his friend. "William, I've got to see you dance. I hate to see you standing about in this stupid manner."
"I will not," said William firmly, "You know I hate dancing, unless I know my partner really well. That would be impossible, here. I don't want to dance with your sisters, and it would be a punishment to stand up with any other woman."
"I wouldn't be as picky as you for anything!" exclaimed Charles, "I've never met so many pleasant women in my life, and there are several exceptionally beautiful ones."
"You have been dancing with the only beautiful woman in the room," said William, looking at Jane.
"She is the most beautiful creature I ever beheld! But there is one of her sisters sitting down just behind you, who is very pretty, and I dare say, very agreeable. Let me ask my partner to introduce you," said Charles.
William glanced at Elizabeth and said, "She is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me. I'm not in the mood to dance with women who are slighted by other men, and I definitely don't want to dance with some high school teacher. Go back to your partner and enjoy her smiles. You're wasting your time with me." Charles returned to Jane's side.
William was sorry that those words had escaped his mouth. What was it about social gatherings that always brought out the worst in him? He looked again at Elizabeth. She paled in comparison when standing next to her stunning sister, but she was quite pretty in her own way. He hoped that she had not heard his comments. That hope, however, was dashed when she got up to move across the room and gave him an arch glance as she passed him. He saw her talking to Mayor Lucas' daughter, and suddenly the two women laughed. He suddenly felt even more uncomfortable. He certainly wasn't used to people having fun at his expense.
Chapter 8
After the party, Jane, Elizabeth, and Kitty ended up taking Mrs. Bennet home since Lydia wanted the car to visit a friend. Not wanting their father to have to listen to Mrs. Bennet's ramblings alone, the three sisters accepted their mother's invitation to come in for some tea and coffee.
"Oh, Mr. Bennet! It was a wonderful evening! Jane was so beautiful, even though I thought she would have looked even more impressive if she had worn the dress I advised her to wear. Jane, dear, try to wear more sequins, ruffles, and lace next time. You'll look even more beautiful than you are now, especially if you wear all three with really bright colors. Everyone will be turning to look at you! Anyway, Jane was so admired, and Mr. Bingley was so attracted to her! He danced with her and spent so much time talking to her! He danced with her more than any girl! Do you want to know who he danced with?" said Mrs. Bennet, finally pausing for breath.
"No, thank you," said Mr. Bennet, "There's no need to list all his dance partners. I think I have a pretty good idea of what happened."
"Oh, my dear Mr. Bennet! He's so handsome and charming! And so are his sisters! He introduced Jane to them, you know. They're both fashion designers, and I wish you could have seen their clothes…" continued Mrs. Bennet
"No clothes, Mrs. Bennet. I don't want to hear about this and that designer!" said Mr. Bennet firmly.
"But his friend! He slighted Lizzy, you know, and flatly refused to dance with her! He may be heir to Darcy Airlines, but he's the most disagreeable man I've ever met. All he did was walk around the room with a bored look on his face, as though he thought he was too good for us," said Mrs. Bennet indignantly.
"So he insulted my Lizzy, did he?" asked Mr. Bennet.
"Well, I didn't really like him, Dad, so it doesn't really matter. Apparently, being a high school teacher doesn't rank as a desirable occupation to him. Actually, Mom and Dad, we should get going. It's pretty late," said Elizabeth. Her two sisters also took their leave, and they all headed home.
"So, Jane, now that we're away from Mom, what did you think of him?" asked Elizabeth as she drove home.
"Oh, he's so nice and easy to talk to. We had a wonderful discussion on the Middle Ages, and just talked about so many subjects. We're going out to dinner tomorrow. Please, please, don't breathe a word to Mom. She would just go wild, and I don't think that I could handle that now," said Jane.
"He knows how to recognize a good thing when he sees it, and he's handsome, too. I give you permission to like him, Jane. You've like many stupider people," said Elizabeth laughingly.
"Lizzy's right," Kitty chimed in, "you never see faults in anyone. Everyone's good and decent to you."
"It's too bad his sisters aren't as nice as he is," said Elizabeth.
"Not at first, maybe. They are quite pleasant after some conversation, though. I think they'll be lovely acquaintances," said Jane, determined to see the best in everyone, "William Darcy may turn out to be decent, too, you know, Lizzy."
"You mean he'll be willing to dance with high school teachers? I doubt it!" said Elizabeth.
"Did that comment about you being a teacher bother you, Lizzy?" asked Kitty in a concerned voice.
"No, not really," laughed Elizabeth, "It's what I love doing, despite what Mr. Superior Airline Executive says."
Returning to Netherfield, the party gathered in one of the rooms. Bert immediately lay down on a couch and fell asleep, but the others discussed the evening's events.
"So none of the women in Meryton were pretty enough for you, William? Why didn't you dance with me or Louisa, then?" asked Caroline.
Charles saved William from answering by saying, "Why are you determined to be displeased with everything and everyone you meet, William? I never met so many beautiful or pleasant women in my life. Jane Bennet was especially wonderful. We had a wonderful discussion on the Middle Ages, and we're going out to dinner tomorrow. I've never met anyone in my life."
"She is beautiful, but she's too serene," said William.
"But the mother and the youngest sister!" exclaimed Caroline.
"Well," said Charles, shrugging.
"I heard Elizabeth Bennet, the high school teacher, described as a local beauty," said Caroline condescendingly, "What do you think of that, William?"
William felt guilty for his previous comments on Elizabeth Bennet, but he appeased Caroline, knowing that she would not drop the subject until he said something, "I should as soon call her mother a wit. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to bed. Good night."
As he walked up the stairs to his room, he shook his head. Charles was in love again. This was nothing new - he went in and out of love frequently. Charles was a brilliant scholar, but he had never been able to sustain a very long relationship with anyone. He thought about Elizabeth Bennet, and hoped that she wouldn't hold his comment against him too long. She was quite pretty, he thought, despite her unfortunate job.
Chapter 9
Two Weeks Later
It was late in the afternoon when Elizabeth was finally able to leave Hertfordshire Regional High School. The school day had long been over, but she had stayed after to help a struggling ninth grade student who couldn't grasp the concept of inertia. Elizabeth tried several explanations and demonstrations, with no success. Both student and teacher were relieved when the boy finally grasped the concept with the last demonstration. Elizabeth put a Batman figurine in a miniature cart and rolled it down an incline to show what would happen without a seatbelt. Naturally, the figurine flew out of the cart at the bottom of the ramp, and her student finally understood. Nothing was more rewarding to her than when the light bulb lit in a student's head.
"Where have you been, Lizzy?" asked Jane, "You're usually home before me."
"I was helping a student in my physical science class who couldn't grasp Newton's First Law, and I was trying to get a head start on grading my AP class' quizzes. I don't think any of them really understand three-dimensional vectors yet," answered Elizabeth, "Are you having dinner with Charles again?"
"Yes, but this dinner is more work related," said Jane.
"Oh, really," said Elizabeth teasingly, "Well, I have quite a bit of grading to do tonight. I'm going to be ambitious and try to do all five classes tonight. I haven't had time lately, and the lab reports and chapter problems are just piling up. I think I'll have company, though, since Kitty will probably be home studying."
"By the way, Mom called. She wants us to have dinner with her and Dad tomorrow instead of Sunday. She told me Mayor Lucas is having a party on Saturday night for the town to meet the cast and crew of that new soap opera. I guess she wants to see us before we meet them," said Jane.
"Great," said Elizabeth rolling her eyes, "Did you know that this show is going to be called 'Beach Bunnies Yesterday, Today, and Never in Mansfield Trailer Park Where the Sun Never Sets'? No wonder Mom is so excited."
"Did I also mention that Dad won't be here for the weekend? He's at some library conference for the next week," said Jane.
"Wonderful," groaned Elizabeth, "Dinner with Mom alone…"
"Oh, girls! Isn't it exciting that this show is going to be filmed right here in Meryton?" exclaimed Mrs. Bennet, "Lydia, this will be a wonderful opportunity for you! I think David Forster is a genius! Ooooh, we get to meet all the actors tomorrow night. I have to say, I still have a soft spot in my heart for these hunks. I'm still attracted to Fabio, you know. David Forster is a genius for coming up with such wonderful titles for his shows! Jane, dear, how are things going with dear Charles? When are you going to bring him here to eat with us? Do you know what he likes to eat?"
"Mom, we've only known each other a few weeks, and we don't want to move that fast," explained Jane patiently.
"Oh, Jane, darling, are those Rules really working? See Lizzy? You could learn a thing or two from your sisters," chided Mrs. Bennet.
"No, Mom, I'm not using any rules. I just want to get to know him slowly," answered Jane.
"Oh, Lizzy! I got a call from Billy Joe the other day. He should be coming to Meryton in about a month. I told him you couldn't wait!" exclaimed Mrs. Bennet.
"Mom!" cried Lizzy, "I really don't want to be set up."
"Well, you're not doing anything on your own, are you? You spend all your time grading papers or with your students. How do you expect to land a husband? And you're such a bad influence on Kitty, too. She's hardly been boy-chasing with Lydia since she got back!" complained Mrs. Bennet.
"Mom, do you think that I could be a good 'beach bunny'?" asked Lydia, "I would love to get a role in that new soap."
"Oh, Lydia, you would be wonderful. How exciting! I could have a daughter on TV!" said Mrs. Bennet excitedly.
Mrs. Bennet and Lydia spent the remainder of dinner talking about plot lines from David Forster's previous shows and speculating about his new one. The other three sisters tried to keep their sanity until it was time to leave.
Chapter 10
The Lucas' party had already started by the time Jane, Elizabeth, and Kitty arrived. Charles immediately claimed Jane, and the two went off into their own little world.
"He really seems to like her, doesn't he?" asked Charlotte.
"I'm so happy for her, Charlotte," said Elizabeth.
"But what about Charles? What does he think of her?" inquired Charlotte.
"Well, I think it's obvious that he likes her a lot. I think she's been out to dinner with him more than she's eaten at home," answered Elizabeth.
"She should make her feelings more obvious, then. She should show more than she feels, not less, if she is to secure him," advised Charlotte.
"Secure him? Charlotte, you're starting to scare me. You're actually starting to sound like my mother," said Elizabeth.
"I didn't mean to be that extreme. I just meant that we know how Jane feels because we know her so well. A stranger might not be able to see her true feelings if she keeps them hidden," said Charlotte, "And speaking of mothers, my mother has been nagging me about getting married. Do you think our mothers talk together?"
"I wouldn't be surprised," laughed Elizabeth, "Is she anxious for you and Tim to get married? What do you two talk about, anyway? Jane and Charles have their history, but Tim is a math professor, and you always hated math!"
"You'd be surprised, Lizzy," said Charlotte, "I think we get along wonderfully because we're so different. When is your prince charming, Billy Joe, coming?"
"Ugh! Don't even mention him, Charlotte!" exclaimed Elizabeth.
"Well, I hope things turn out well for Jane. I don't think his sisters are too thrilled with this relationship," said Charlotte.
"Or his friend, Mr. High and Mighty Business Executive," added Elizabeth.
"William Darcy is looking at you a lot, Lizzy," noted Charlotte.
"I can't imagine why, unless it's to find more of my faults," said Elizabeth.
William found that he could not take his eyes off Elizabeth. She was certainly more than tolerable! He had seen her several times since their first meeting, albeit unbeknownst to her. He had seen her on the high school lawn doing labs with her students, taking them out after school for ice cream, and meeting her father for coffee on his runs. He wished that he could have her kind of joy in his life. She seemed to truly love her job, and the more he thought about it, the more he admired her for doing what she wanted. Her sparkling eyes, especially, were beautiful. She had an ease with people that he envied. He wanted to know her better, and he found himself trying to listen in on her conversations.
Mrs. Bennet and Lydia were in heaven when they finally got to meet some of the actors on "Beach Bunnies Yesterday, Today, and Never in Mansfield Trailer Park Where the Sun Never Sets." Lydia shrieked with delight when David Forster said that he might consider casting her in the show. Mrs. Bennet and Mrs. Phillips could not stop gushing about how wonderful his shows were. Some music started playing, and Lydia came up with the idea of dancing, which pleased several of the actors.
William was watching their absolute lack of propriety when Mayor Lucas started a conversation with him. "Isn't dancing a charming amusement for young people, Mr. Darcy? One of the refinements of every polished society," said the mayor pompously.
"And every unpolished society," said William shortly.
"Excuse me?" asked the mayor looking confused.
"Every savage can dance," said William, seeing Lydia gyrating wildly.
"Oh, I see. Do you dance often?" asked Mayor Lucas.
"It's something that I try to avoid, if I can help it," answered William.
Elizabeth had also noticed Lydia's wild dancing, and moved towards her to warn her to calm down and behave herself. Before she reached her sister, however, Mayor Lucas stopped her. "Elizabeth! Why aren't you dancing? Mr. Darcy, please let me present Miss Bennet to you as a very desirable partner. You can't refuse to dance, I'm sure, when so much beauty is before you."
"I would love to dance. Would you?," said William politely. He looked forward to this opportunity to get to know her better. She had intrigued him since that fall party.
To his surprise, Elizabeth refused. Any other woman he knew would have jumped at the opportunity, but Elizabeth only said, "I'm sorry. I don't really feel like dancing. Please don't think that I walked this way to pick up a partner."
"Please do dance with me, Miss Bennet," William could not remember the last time he had asked a woman twice.
Mayor Lucas then tried to persuade her as well, "Oh, Elizabeth, you dance so well! Can't you see that Mr. Darcy wants to dance with you even though he usually never dances?"
"Mr. Darcy is all politeness," said Elizabeth, smiling.
"Who could object to you as a partner?" asked the mayor.
"Thank you," said Elizabeth, "but I'm really not in the mood to dance." She then moved away from the two men.
William was fascinated with her even more. She was completely the opposite of any other woman he had ever known. She was even more beautiful close up, he thought. He had finally been able to look closely at her exquisite eyes and beautiful hair. It wasn't just her beauty that attracted him, however. Her playful manner was something he had never seen in anyone else.
Caroline Bingley then interrupted his reverie, "I think I can guess what you're thinking."
"I don't think you could," he answered coldly, hoping that she would take a hint.
"You are thinking how unbearable it would be to spend anymore time in the society of this tiny town. I wish I could hear some of your witty thoughts on these people," said Caroline, not getting his hint.
"You're wrong, Caroline. I'm thinking of much more cheerful things. I've been focuses on a pair of fine eyes on the face of a pretty woman," said William.
Caroline was sure that he was talking about her, so she asked, "Who's fine eyes are giving you such pleasure?"
"Elizabeth Bennet," answered William.
"Elizabeth Bennet!" exclaimed Caroline, "I'm so surprised! How long has she been a favorite? When can I congratulate you on your engagement?"
"Why does a woman's mind move so fast from admiration to love to marriage? That's something I would have expected you to say," said William.
Caroline tried to do some damage-control and make William see this little high school teacher in a negative light, "If you're serious about it, it's settled. You'll have a charming mother-in-law, and I'm sure your family will be thrilled if you have a high school teacher as a wife."
William started to tune Caroline out as her prattling started to get on his nerves. He resolved to get to know Elizabeth Bennet better at the next opportunity that he got.
Chapter 11
The inevitable Sunday dinner arrived again, and Jane, Elizabeth, and Kitty found themselves listening to their mother ramble on and on, "Lizzy, Billy Joe Collins will be arriving in two weeks so you two can get acquainted next Sunday dinner. I want you girls to spend all of Sunday at home, actually. Won't it be lovely? We can welcome Billy Joe into our family! I'm sure that Billy Joe and I will get along fine! He's a psychic advisor, you know, and he's supposed to be one of the best. He lives in Hunsford now because he mainly advises that old movie star, Catherine de Bourgh."
Elizabeth again tried to talk some common sense into her mother, "Mom, I don't think we'll have much in common. You know I don't believe in those tarot cards or palm readings."
"Lizzy, dear, I'm sure you'll be converted once you meet Billy Joe. We had the most wonderful chat on the telephone. What a gentleman! And Jane, how is dear Charles? How much progress have you made?" demanded Mrs. Bennet.
"Mom, we're just slowly getting to know each other," explained Jane.
"Oh, Jane, how do you expect to rope him in with your methods! I bought you a book this week to help you go about reeling him in," said Mrs. Bennet.
Kitty tried to help her sister, "Mom, Charles isn't a fish. Jane wants to make sure that she likes him, too, you know."
"Kitty, what happened to all your senses? Jane should dress more like Lydia and be more aggressive with her man!" exclaimed Mrs. Bennet.
"I could give you some tips, Jane," offered Lydia, helpfully, wearing an outfit that looked glued onto her body.
"Thank you, Lydia," said Jane, "but I don't think that tight, cleavage-baring clothes are quite my style."
"Well, they help if you're in the soap business, Jane. Did I tell you all that I got a small part in the new soap? They told me that it might get bigger if I show them that I'm good," said Lydia. She was interrupted by Jane's cell phone ringing. Jane went to answer it in another room. Lydia continued, "I can't wait to film! So many hunky guys to kiss!"
"Oh, Lydia! Sometimes I wish I were your age again!" cried Mrs. Bennet.
"Heaven help us if that were to happen," said Mr. Bennet, rolling his eyes.
Jane walked back into the room trying to hide a smile. "Who was that, Jane?" asked Mrs. Bennet
Jane wanted to lie, but knew that she couldn't fool anyone, "It was Caroline. She invited me to dinner tomorrow night. Charles won't be there, though."
"Well, that's a good sign, too. Try to see if you can fix it so that you have to stay overnight. I'll try to come up with some ideas tomorrow morning," said Mrs. Bennet.
"Mom!" exclaimed Jane, shocked.
"Why would you go to Netherfield without seeing Charles?" asked Mrs. Bennet.
Jane sighed and gave up reasoning with her mother, "Lizzy, you won't mind being alone, will you? Kitty's driving to ---town with Mariah Lucas to see 'Richard III' so you won't have any way of getting away from the house."
Elizabeth smiled at her sister's concern. "It's no problem at all. I wasn't planning on going anywhere tomorrow night. I have to plan a few labs and grade tons of stuff. Spending an evening with his sisters doesn't sound like too much fun, though. They're exactly the opposite of Charles. You and Kitty can have fun for me."