Prologue
It is truly acknowledged that a man with a fortune must be in want of a wife. Mrs. Bennet believed this with every ounce of her being. Keeping that in mind, she pushed her daughters to be the best they could be. Whether it came to grades, sports, or even their physical appearance, she wanted them to be at the top. Of course, most people would agree that no one can excel in every area. Mrs. Bennet, however, was not most people, and still drilled that ideal and goal into her daughter's lives.

Jane, the eldest, was her clear favorite. Pretty and patient, Jane received her mother's attention with humility while insisting she still had much to learn. That was Jane. She had the softest, kindest voice that truly conveyed her angel spirit. Her goodness had seemingly rewarded her with talent and beauty in equal measure, as well as the work ethic and determination to become an operating room nurse.

Mary, who was 3rd, was a musical prodigy with no social skills. Although unapologetically smart, she was completely unaware of her awkwardness. To make up for it, once her hands hit her violin all that faded away. So, despite her plain appearance and no social aspects, Mrs. Bennet always gave her an approving nod.

Kitty and Lydia. Well, there was no reason to separate the two. Mrs. Bennet clearly had given up trying to control these two. It is said that parents become lazy when it comes to the younger children and it was certainly true in this case. Kitty and Lydia ran their own lives, resulting in them doing exactly what they pleased, which was, in short: boys. Everything was about boys, and Mrs. Bennet gave in to every little fancy with a pleasing smile and a helping hand.

Lizzie was the second eldest but mentioned last because she was, in no doubt, her mother's least favorite. Although just as accomplished as Jane in her career, Lizzie fell short in her mother's eyes. In her father's eyes, though, Lizzie was first. She had developed similar interests to his, including books and hot chocolate in the quiet of a study. Do not suppose, merely because Lizzie often preferred the company of a book, that she did not have a strong personality. Lizzie's personality constantly was the source of the strife between her mother and her. Her father often smiled at these exchanges for Lizzie had quick wit that few rivaled and which gave Mrs. Bennet discomfort and Mr. Bennet a good laugh. Jane, being the peacemaker, would attempt to find a solution on which both Mrs. Bennet and Lizzie could agree.

Despite the vast differences in temperament between Jane and Lizzie, they had always been best friends. Only one year apart, they attended the same college and pursued the same major. Graduating a year apart, they both got employed at the same hospital and left home to get an apartment in the city.

Charlotte Lucas had found the apartment in the same building as her own. Charlotte was also a nurse at the hospital and, although she was a few years older, they had become friends. Lizzie and Charlotte especially had grown close. Everything was perfect for Lizzie. She slept, worked, hung with her sister and best friend, and slept more. She was content. Despite her mother's efforts to find her a man, Lizzie was living the dream.

Life was blissful. Blissful indeed, until Dr. Bingley came to town.

Chapter 1

The early morning sun strayed between buildings as Lizzie boarded the subway. She worked days at the hospital and she always rode the subway to save money. She nodded at a few regulars that she rode with. Plugging in her headphones, she put on her morning playlist.

This was her escape. Each morning on her way to work, she would listen to her music and disappear into her own world. An established introvert, Lizzie needed the break from people to remain sane throughout the day. Working as an OR nurse was a stressful job which wasn't easy to come away from. So, like clockwork every morning, Lizzie got into the zone with her music. Then, on her way home, into her music she went again to end the day. Along with her music, she often read, did Sudoku, or crossword puzzles. She often craved that time. Her alone time with her thoughts and emotions.

When she arrived at the hospital, Lizzie went straight to her locker where she was greeted by her good friend, Charlotte, who looked very excited.

"Lizzie!" she squealed clapping her hands together, "I have the most amazing news!"

"What's up?" Lizzie said wrapping up her headphones and placing them in her locker. She grabbed a hair tie and quickly pulled her hair back.

"You know how they're expanding the surgery floor," started Charlotte.

"Really? You mean all the fundraising and remodeling was meant for that?" Lizzie remarked sarcastically.

Charlotte gave her an annoyed look, "I don't have time for your sarcasm right now Lizzie. Please, you need to hear this!"

"I'm sorry Charlotte. You usually appreciate my morning sarcasm. Tell me what's up."

"They're bringing in Dr. Charles Bingley and Dr. Fitzwilliam!" she burst out breathlessly.

"Wait, really?"

"Yes! Our hospital is receiving two of the best surgeons in our country. Can you believe it?"

"How'd we pull that off?," asked Lizzie as she and Charlotte left the locker room.

"Not sure, I guess Dr. Gardiner made it happen."

"Have you seen Jane?"

"No," said Charlotte, "she came in just a few hours ago, right? So what do you think?"

"I think I wanted to say hello. I hate it when we work different shifts," said Lizzie.

"No, not about that. What do you think about Dr. Bingley and Dr. Fitzwilliam?"

"They're surgeons. We work in surgery. I've seen one occasionally."

"Come on Lizzie, they're not just surgeons. They're some of the best in their field and we get to work with them! Isn't that exciting?" protested Charlotte.

"Sure," said Lizzie, heading towards the main desk where check nurse Mrs. Gardiner was standing working on schedules.

"Morning," said Lizzie, "Is Jane around?"

"Yes, she just left OR 2. I think she wanted to freshen up." Mrs. Gardiner handed Lizzie a schedule for the day. "How are my favorite OR nurses?"

"We're fine," said Charlotte, "Just excited about the news."

"You along with the rest of my nursing staff," muttered Mrs. Gardiner.

"What does that mean?" asked Lizzie.

"I've already had nurse after nurse asking about them. I wouldn't have half as much hassle if they weren't single." She emphasized the last word in distaste.

"Oh, goodness gracious," sighed Lizzie, rolling her eyes. "This is why surgeons don't respect nurses…the minute that a new surgeon comes walking in here, we become pimped out Barbie dolls with no brains who will do anything to get a man…or surgeon in this case."

"Rant accepted. I'll second that with telling you that I need you at our party tonight to welcome them, Lizzie," added Mrs. Gardiner.

"Uh, no," said Lizzie defiantly turning and walking away.

"Elizabeth…please," called Mrs. Gardiner chasing after her. "I need a nurse who will act responsibly and show some class and not fall in love with them. Can't you see that you're my only hope?"

"Pish posh, Charlotte and Jane will do just fine."

"Jane is already going and Charlotte will come if you do."

"Excuse me, I have my own life," interjected Charlotte in mock protest.

"I'm sorry, Charlotte. Would you like to come to our house tonight for a welcoming party?"

"Why yes, I would. Thanks."

"We'll see you at seven Charlotte…and Lizzie, I expect to see you too," said Mrs. Gardiner as she turned and walked away.

"Ugh…I hate parties," said Lizzie.

"It's the perfect chance to wear my new dress," said Charlotte, ignoring Lizzie.

"Yeah. I think I'll wear my scrubs."

"No, you won't Lizzie," said Jane, coming up behind and giving her a side hug. "You can borrow something from me. Maybe some nice heels."

"Ah, my favorite times," said Lizzie with resignation. "Going to parties and wearing heels."

"This isn't like college. This will be with your friends," said Charlotte.

"We could even make this a girls' night," interjected Jane, "We'll do our nails and each other's hair!"

"Definitely," replied Charlotte.

Lizzie rolled her eyes and snorted. Jane gave her sister an even bigger hug.

"You know you love them. Besides, if I do your nails then you don't have to do them."

"Silver lining," smiled Lizzie, and nodded with a shrug. "Fine, I'm off at 3."

"Perfect."

Although Lizzie hated to admit it, it was perfect. They went for a quick shopping trip on which Jane and Charlotte convinced Lizzie to spend money on a new black dress. She moaned about it at first, but when she tried it on, she was pleasantly surprised by her appearance. Wearing scrubs all day, and often changing into sweats when she got home, she rarely dressed up. Moaning a little less, Lizzie even began to look forward to the approaching party.
It wasn't like Lizzie hated all things girly. True, she was a tomboy at heart, but she still wore makeup and had cute clothes. She just believed that things needed to be comfy and cute at the same time. Heels were not comfortable so therefore she hardly ever wore them. Jane gave such a sad face when she refused to wear heels that Lizzie soon gave in.

Finally, after hours of laughing and spending time with her two best friends, they were ready to go. Jane, wearing a light blue dress, was the star of the trio. Her natural smile and beautiful blue eyes made her all but impossible to compete with. Lizzie had refused too much fuss so her hair was simply straightened, but Charlotte added some mousse, making her hair shine.

As Lizzie slipped on her new black dress, she was again pleasantly surprised by the girl in the mirror. Having a sister as beautiful as Jane, Lizzie was rarely the center of attention, but felt that in this dress she could just about give Jane a run for her money. Lizzie laughed at herself. As if that would ever happen.

Charlotte was waiting at the door. She wore a simple dark green dress with her hair in a bun and she smiled as Lizzie approached, "Lizzie, you look amazing!"

"Thanks!"

"Both of you look wonderful" said Jane grabbing the keys, "Are we all set?"

"I think so," said Charlotte, "I'll ride with you guys if that's okay. Unless, you two pick up dates and want to be alone."

"Huh, as if that would happen. Well, to me anyway," said Lizzie, looking at Jane who missed her meaning.

Arriving at the Gardiners house, Lizzie was surprised by the number of cars. They had to park two blocks away which made Lizzie complain again about her heels. Mrs. Gardiner greeted them at the door. They were thrown for a minute by the size of the house and the number of people in the house.

"I didn't know their house was so big," whispered Jane, "Or that there would be so many people here."

"It's all good, I'll protect you," Lizzie replied. Inwardly she groaned. She too was intimidated by large groups of people. The difference was, while Jane became quiet, Lizzie talked more to cover her shyness. Lizzie took Jane's hand and led her through the crowd of people. When they emerged out of the crowd, Lizzie noticed that Jane held Charlotte's hand. Lizzie laughed.

"How pathetic are we? We are physically attached to each other," said Lizzie releasing Jane's hand.

"I would have lost you in that crowd if we hadn't been," retorted Charlotte while Jane nodded in agreement.

"Oh, good. Drinks," said Lizzie pointing them out. Both Charlotte and Lizzie grabbed wine, but Jane shook her head at the offer.

"I'm on call," she said holding up her phone which she was keeping close to her person in case she was needed.

"Okay. What now?"

"I don't know," said Charlotte, "Are the guests of honor even here?"

"Beats me," said Lizzie. "I'm only here as a favor to the Gardiners."

"It might not be a terrible idea to make a good impression with the new surgeons Lizzie," teased Jane, smiling.

Lizzie shrugged. They were soon greeted by several fellow nurses who immediately took them into conversation. Lizzie said very little. This was completely out of her element. She hated parties. She had always hated them.
Keeping minimal attention on the conversation, Lizzie began people-watching, her one solace in large gatherings. Caught up in deciphering the nuances of gestures and looks, Lizzie hardly noticed when the doorbell rang once more.

She was awakened from her thoughts when Dr. Gardiner whistled to get everyone's attention. Lizzie turned to see three people standing together with him. Two were red heads. The first was male and he smiled at the crowd around him. The female red head looked about with a smugness she did not bother to disguise. The last man was practically hiding behind the other two, making it difficult for Lizzie to steal a glance.

"Thank you all so much for coming," said Dr. Gardiner, "Now, I would like to introduce some new faces to you. I am honored to say they will be joining us in our new surgical wing. Dr. Charles Bingley! He's a cardiothoracic surgeon."Dr. Bingley, the red headed man, waved genially to the crowd in response to the clapping. Lizzie figured he seemed friendly enough. Dr. Gardiner continued. "His sister Caroline Bingley."

The red headed girl smiled a little and raised her hand but quickly put it down. Lizzie had guessed correctly about their relation, and was fairly confident that the sister would be markedly less friendly than her brother.

"And our other new arrival Dr. Fitzwilliam, a neurosurgeon!"

The biggest applause was for Dr. Fitzwilliam, although it died out fairly quickly when he didn't even acknowledge it in the slightest.

"Make sure you give them the warmest welcome," concluded Dr. Gardiner. "Please, everyone, enjoy yourselves!"

With that, the chaos of the party continued. The nurses around Lizzie started chatting in earnest, rapidly confirming Mrs. Gardiner's fears and making Lizzie want to groan.

"Oh my word. They're both hot."

"Should I introduce myself or is that too forward."

"What kind of wine do you think they would like."

"Did you see his eyes?"

Lizzie couldn't take it any longer so she grabbed Jane and Charlotte and led them away from the herd of chicks.

"Wow, I can't believe our education system passed them to be in the medical field," said Lizzie taking a rather large sip of her wine.

"Lizzie, they're just excited," scolded Jane.

"Why? We see surgeons every day and frankly, most of them are not nice people."

"Dr. Gardiner is."

"The exception that proves the rule," retorted Lizzie.

"Come on, Lizzie. Girls like to get excited about guys," soothed Charlotte, smiling at her aggravated friend.

"I know, I just wish we didn't lose our heads when we did."

"Like a chicken," added Charlotte, which caused them all to snicker.

"Exactly," said Lizzie, feeling some of the tension go out of her. "Thanks for making me laugh, Charlotte. I needed that."

"Any time."

"Just promise me you'll be civil when we meet them," said Jane.

"Isn't that a bit presumptuous of you? Who's knows if they'll even talk to us." said Lizzie.

"Not really," said Jane shaking her head and gesturing behind Lizzie. "Here they come now."

Lizzie turned to see Dr. Gardiner steering his way towards them. He was followed closely by Dr. Bingley and a little ways behind was Dr. Fitzwilliam.

"Dr. Bingley, allow me to introduce some of our best OR nurses," began Dr. Gardiner. "This is Jane and Lizzie Bennet. Yes, they're sisters. And on the end there is Charlotte Lucas."

"It is certainly a pleasure," said Dr. Bingley, giving each of them a smile. Lizzie noticed with amusement that his eyes returned quite quickly to Jane, who blushed under his intense stare.

"Pleasure is ours," replied Jane giving him a smile which caused Bingley to blush in turn.

"Here we go again. Guy meets Jane. Guy likes Jane," whispered Lizzie out of the side of her mouth. Charlotte stifled a laugh, but couldn't help the grin that appeared.

"What was that?" asked Dr. Gardiner.

"I was asking Dr. Bingley a question," Lizzie quickly recovered, smiling at Bingley.

"I'm sorry I missed it. Mind repeating it?" Mr. Bingley asked kindly.

"How do you like Chicago?"

"Very much, the city is beautiful at night. I'm looking forward to some sightseeing when I have time."

"Ambitious. I've heard surgeons never have enough time," joked Lizzie.

"I choose to be optimistic. Excuse me, where did you get the wine? I could use a glass after meeting so many new faces." Bingley smiled at them all, but he directed his question quite clearly to Jane.

"I'd be happy to show you, Dr. Bingley," she replied, smiling innocently.

"Charles," he corrected, with yet another smile. Lizzie couldn't help smiling at the two of them as they walked off together.

Their absence allowed Dr. Gardiner to draw Dr. Fitzwilliam closer into the circle. Seeing him up close for the first time, even Lizzie had to admit something. Wow! He was good looking, but boy did he look depressed. He looked no one in the eye and acted as though Charlotte and Lizzie were invisible. Lizzie sighed inwardly but, knowing they would be working together, tried speaking to him.

"So, Dr. Fitzwilliam. Have you ever been to Chicago before?" she asked, trying a similar approach to that she had with Bingley, with a smile that was more difficult than a moment before.

"No, I have not." He finally spared her a glance as he replied, but made no effort to engage.

"So, what do you think?"

"It's cold."

"Yeah, well it's the Midwest. It's what we're known for," joked Lizzie, trying to catch his eye, but he simply nodded and looked away. Lizzie decided she had put in enough effort.

"Charlotte, let's go try some appetizers," said Lizzie, taking Charlotte's hand.

"Yes, thank you Dr. Gardiner for the party and it was nice to meet you Dr. Fitzwilliam." said Charlotte in a rush as Lizzie led her away. He ignored her while Dr. Gardiner smiled and thanked them for coming.
In another room back near the food, some music had been turned on and dancing had started. Lizzie laughed at some of her coworkers inebriated attempts at the latest dance moves. Her laughter cut off when she saw with surprise that Bingley and Jane were dancing together. Lizzie smiled as she saw Jane laughing and having a good time.

"Well, I like Bingley," said Lizzie grabbing an appetizer.

"Me too, and it seems Jane does as well," Charlotte said with a smirk at the couple.

"I'm happy for her. Bingley seems awesome and goodness knows, she deserves someone awesome."

Charlotte nodded in agreement right before some nurses pulled her onto the dance floor. She waved at Lizzie to come, too. Lizzie shook her head laughing. She watched for a while, taking it all in, and even clapped along and cheered at times.

She looked across the room to see Dr. Fitzwilliam standing by himself talking to no one. He looked so pathetic. Most surgeons were pathetic at parties so Lizzie wasn't sure why she expected any different.

The dancing grew crazier and Lizzie decided to find some fresh air before she was pulled in to join. Checking on Jane, who was still spending time with Bingley, she left Charlotte dancing and made her way outside. She decided she would just walk around the house. The chill air normally would have bothered her without a coat, but after the crowded house, she welcomed the coolness. Lizzie stood in the cold air for about ten minutes before looking at her watch. It was almost 11 and all three of them worked tomorrow. She turned back towards the house.

Just when she was about to reach the front of the house, she heard voices.

"Will, I don't understand how you can just stand there and not talk to anyone," said Bingley.

"I don't know anyone," said Fitzwilliam testily.

"Well, talk to someone then. There are lots of pretty girls here you know."

"I know you know that, you seemed to be enjoying yourself with the prettiest one here."

"I adore her already," said Bingley, and Lizzie's heart warmed at his honesty.

"Come on Will," he continued. "Why don't you ask a girl to dance? How about Jane's sister Lizzie? She's quite lovely as well."

"Please Charles, she's average at best."

Lizzie's insides steamed with anger and part of her wanted to walk out right then, but Jane's voice of reason came into her head. Never do things in anger.

"You're impossible. You're going to come in with me and you're going to talk to Jane."

"Fine," snapped a clearly irritated Fitzwilliam.

Lizzie waited until they both went inside before she made her way in. She walked into the house and found Charlotte near the drinks.

"You will not believe what Dr. Fitzwilliam just said about me."

"What?" asked Charlotte, pouring Lizzie a drink.

"Average. He said I'm average looking at best. And with such a tone of…" Lizzie crossed her arms, unable to continue.

"Wow, that is so rude! And so untrue."

"Yeah, I wanted to slap him. Or maybe just go up behind him and hit him in the back of the knee so he falls."

"Very mature," said Charlotte laughing.

Jane appeared at Lizzie's side which meant that Charles was close behind as well.

"I just got a call to go into the hospital," said Jane.

"Oh, do you need a ride?" asked Lizzie. "I'll find my coat."

"No, Bingley, I mean, Charles," stammered Jane, her cheeks turning pink. "He's going to give me a ride."

"Sounds good." Lizzie didn't even try to hide her smile.

Caroline and Fitzwilliam appeared with their coats. Lizzie turned away pointedly.

"It was a pleasure meeting both of you," said Bingley, reaching out to shake Lizzie and Charlotte's hands. "I wish I could have had the chance to dance with you both."

"Raincheck," said Lizzie raising her glass.

"I don't know how you could dance in here," scowled Caroline Bingley with a hard look at her brother.

"It was fun," replied Bingley shrugging his shoulders.

"It's crowded," said Fitzwilliam quietly, and Caroline nodded. Bingley laughed and bid everyone farewell. As Fitzwilliam walked past her Lizzie spoke quietly so only he and Charlotte could hear her.

"Yeah, and you wouldn't want your partner to be…well…average."

Dr. Fitzwilliam turned to look at her sharply as Charlotte choked on her drink behind them. Lizzie stared back, determined not to break eye contact. He held her gaze. His eyes were so dark that Lizzie got lost in them for a moment but quickly recovered and took a drink of her wine, while still holding his gaze. Fitzwilliam was the first to look away, glancing at the floor and clearly contemplating saying something. Lizzie tapped her foot waiting. He simply bid them a good night and walked after Caroline. Lizzie smirked.

"I'm looking forward to working with you, Dr. Fitzwilliam!" she called to his departing back. She then turned and grabbed Charlotte, still coughing and in shock, and they walked back to the party.

Neither of them noticed Fitzwilliam turn and watch them walk away.