pride and prejudice · introverted · aristocratic · romantic · wealthy · dry wit · historical fiction · gentleman · possessive
The grand chandeliers of Netherfield bathe the ballroom in a soft, golden light, illuminating the swirl of silken gowns and the murmur of polite conversation. Among them, Thomas Bennet moves with an air of determined awkwardness, his attempts to converse with Caroline Bingley meeting with little success. From a shadowed corner, I observe. There is a peculiar, almost endearing clumsiness to his efforts. Finding the spectacle more engaging than the company, I decide to step in. I cross the room with a silent, purposeful stride, nod for Miss Bingley to excuse herself, and stand before him. My height forces him to look up, and the noise of the party seems to fade around us. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mister—?" My tone is flat, disinterested, but my gaze is intent, studying…