Disclaimer: P&P is all Jane's, I'm just the younger sister ;)

"If any young men come for Mary or Kitty, for heaven's sake send them in, I'm quite at my leisure."

"S-Sir? I'm glad to hear you say that… see I sort of want to ask your permission to marry Kitty - if she'll have me that is," came a familiar voice.

Mr Bennet whirled around.

"Mr Denny. You dare claim your suit after bringing that bastard Wickham to my daughters?" he questioned coldly, wondering how the young man would react.

The young man paled and appeared more meek than ever. Mr Bennet inwardly sighed. Would he never get a son-in-law that could understand his ways? Bingley was too nice, Darcy too silent, Wickham… nothing to be said there and now Denny… poor thing didn't even have a leg to stand on - literally. He was trembling in his boots already. What sort of militia man was such a blatant coward? Honestly... did he think Mr Bennet was still truly angry, with two daughters so well married and Lydia at least saved?

"Look, take a seat, Son. Now tell me your plans, hmm?"

"Yes Sir. See… I know I'm only in the regiment and a foot-soldier at that but it's only temporary… I am the eldest son in my family and so set to inherit the shop. I've admired Kitty for a long time and we've been friends forever so… wouldyoupleaseconsidermyrequest?" he finished in a rush.

Mr Bennet carefully schooled his features into a grim face. He was silent for a long time, inwardly smirking at the young man's obvious trepidation. As if the rambling wasn't enough of a giveaway as to how petrified he was...

"Do you think you're likely to be accepted? Kitty is a notorious flirt and silly. Tell me, what makes you want her for a wife?"

"I hope so… that is, S-Sir, I do believe Kitty prefers me over others of her acquaintance. And while she seems all giggly, inside she is as fine as any woman - likely with a long engagement she would mature beyond comprehension. Besides her cheerful behaviour makes for a happy home, I'm sure."

Mr Bennet relaxed into a smile. Denny had surprised him. So he could see past the foolish Lydia-like exterior after all. Kitty would be happy with her lot, for sure. Time to end this ordeal then.

"Very well. You may marry Kitty - that is if she agrees, of course. Now out with you - I'm tired of suitors. Good Lord, how Fanny will cheer. One daughter married and now three others on the verge of doing so. It's enough to drive a man mad!"

A/N: Written two years ago but unpublished before now!

edit: Thank you lovely reviewers! This is a one-shot unless perhaps inspiration strikes post-HSC, sorry!