Kitty

"Mama, when is Jane and Lizzie coming back from their wedding tour? I can't wait for a ball to attend. Ribbons to buy." I asked Mama.

"Kitty, they should be returning any day now. I am sure that Jane will hold a ball at Netherfield as soon as her and Mr. Bingley return from the continent." Mama said.

I nodded to her and walked out of the door. I couldn't be in the house anymore. Since Jane and Lizzie's weddings a few weeks ago, life had been dreadfully dull. I never thought that life could be so dull since Lydia married Wickham. I miss Lydia beyond belief. If I was honest with myself, I would say I am jealous of Lydia. She has had all the fun the last few months, going to Brighton with the militia. And she ran away with Wickham. She got married for goodness sakes! And she didn't invite me to any of it. I'm so angry at Lydia. I don't care if I never see her again. She left me here with dull, bookish Mary.

"Ugh!" I scream. No one was around. No one was ever around anymore. Walking on the road to Meryton, I never see anyone but the Lucas sisters. They were good for a laugh or gossip, but not the companionship that I sought. It wasn't fair that I was left here bored. I want adventure and fun. Oh, how I can't wait for Jane to return and host a ball. At least then I can dance the night away. I have no real destination for my walk. I'm becoming more and more like Lizzie every day. But maybe that isn't such a bad thing, she did marry the richest man around. I walk into the haberdashery and see a lovely new hat in the window. Maybe I can make up my hat to look like that. The roses are lovely, and the lace, I may have a piece like that at home. Perhaps I can get Jane to buy me a bit of lace when she returns.

I decided to buy the ribbon to match my dress. Ribbon was all my life seemed to be now. I walk out of the shop, not watching where I was going and run into two gentlemen.

"Excuse me, I didn't see you." I say looking at them. I don't know either of them. The younger of the two appears to be twenty or so, quite handsome, tall and blonde. He is wearing spectacles and walks with a limp, one of his feet turned in at an odd angle. The older man is quite a bit older, he could be the limping man's father. They do have similar noses. But the older man's smile is warm and welcoming. I realize I'm staring at the men and search for what to say. I nodded my head and turn to walk home.

"Not at all, young lady. You must have been deep in thought to have not seen us, but I see you have bought some ribbon. Are you thinking of reworking at hat?" The older gentleman asked kindly.

"Yes sir, excuse me."

The younger gentleman cleared his throat. "Oh, yes, civilities, I am Lord Dandridge, and this is my nephew, Anthony." Lord Dandridge nodded to Anthony, who didn't say anything, but stood there looking uncomfortable.

"I'm Kitty Bennett." And I turned away and walked quickly across the street to the post office. I did not have any mail to pick up, but I was off the streets. Lord Dandridge introduced himself without having an introduction. How appalling! If his nephew wasn't limping, I could fall in love with him. He was nice looking. What are they doing in Meryton, I wonder.

I start the walk home, not really wanting to go home, but having nothing else to do. I don't want to see Aunt Phillips. Since the militia left, she has been so busy with her children. I am not important anymore.