Of Vengeance and Veracity: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Jae George

Author:Jae George [George, Jae]
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Published: 2022-06-19T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 11: The Countess’ Confrontation

With Lady Matlock ushering the Gracechurch ladies on their rounds of fittings and shopping, it was not surprising that the group ended up on Bond Street at her ladyship’s favorite milliner. “I insist on being allowed to buy each of you a bonnet to match your wedding gowns,” she had averred. While Elizabeth and Jane had wandered about the extensive shop, Mrs. Gardiner and Lady Matlock had taken the task more methodically and were matching bonnets to swatches from the two gowns.

The younger ladies were taken by surprise when they recognized the unwelcome voice behind them as that of Caroline Bingley. “Why, how unexpected to find the two eldest Miss Bennets here in this particular shop today,” the caustic words disturbing the sisters’ otherwise pleasant day. “I see that you have discovered that the prices here are too dear for your pocketbooks as you have made no selections,” the shrew finished with her nose even higher than her typical look of disdain.

Jane responded with her usual serenity, “Miss Bingley, how nice to see you. How are you enjoying your time in London?”

Before the lady could reply, she was distracted as Lady Matlock rushed to the Bennet sisters with a bonnet in each hand. “Jane, dear, I think this one will be lovely with your gown, and your Aunt Madeline agrees that it suits your style as well. And, Elizabeth, this one is a little more avant-garde but would be splendid with the rich brown of your hair.” Acknowledging that the two sisters were not alone, Lady Matlock chuckled. “Oh, sorry to interrupt your conversation with this young lady.”

Caroline immediately seized the opportunity for self-promotion. Following a deep curtsy, she said, “Lady Matlock. How delightful to see you today. You will remember that we were introduced at the theatre when my brother Charles and I attended with your nephew Mr. Darcy.”

A slow smile crept across her ladyship’s face. “Yes, of course, you are Miss Bunkley, are you not?”

Aghast, Caroline Bingley corrected her, “Miss Caroline Bingley, your ladyship.”

“As you say,” the countess dismissed her with a wave of her hand and turned back to her new nieces, waiting for their opinions of the bonnets she had chosen.

“Perhaps a little too avant-garde for me, Lady Helen,” Elizabeth responded. “I am not fond of ostrich feathers. Although some consider them fashionable, I think they are overdone more often than not.”

Giving Caroline’s bonnet a condescending look, Lady Matlock agreed, “Yes, dear, I see your point. Well, come with me, girls. Your Aunt Madeline has another choice for you to see.” She handed the extravagant hat off a nearby clerk and linked her arms with Elizabeth and Jane. As she turned and led them away, she threw a parting shot over her shoulder, “Nice to see you again, Miss Bigby.”

Caroline stood in stunned silence in the middle of what had been her favorite milliner shop, knowing she would never return. All of the clerks here would be aware of her humiliation before the door closed behind her.

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