A/N: This is my first Pride and Prejudice fiction. I was inspired to write this because in watching the 2005 movie, the kept showing shots of Mary during Mr. Collins's stay that made me think she had a thing for him. I think this is pretty bad, but I felt like posting it. Please review, and constructive criticism will be appreciated.
Mary Bennet had always considered herself too sensible to fall in love. She had never believed in love at first sight, either.
Yet, here she was, in love with Mr. Collins! And he had only arrived yesterday!
She knew all of her sisters looked down upon Mr. Collins, but Mary's love could not be stopped. The two of them were so similar. They both shared a love for books. She had been incensed by the way he had read to them last night. The hours had passed far too quickly.
There was also the fact that Mr. Collins had mentioned his habit of pre-arranging compliments. Although she did not participate in this activity, Mary did often find herself thinking of intellengent comments she could interject into conversation when appropriate.
In additon to having these things in common, Mary felt a deeper connection to Mr. Collins. She felt as if she was the only person who understood him. As Mary readied herself for the upcoming day, she resolved that Mr. Collins should come to understand her in the course of the day.
Mary's hopes were dashed after breakfast, however. Mrs. Bennet had exclaimed at her own newfounded happiness.
"My two eldest daughters shall soon be married! I cannot think of a happier occurrence! I shall miss them dearly, of course."
Mary looked up from her book. "Who is Lizzy to marry?" she asked, surprised.
"Mr. Collins, of course! His intention was to marry one of you. He had, however, first wished to marry Jane. But I, of course, told him of our hopes for Jane's marriage to Mr. Bingley. Afterwards, I reminded him of Elizabeth's merit, and I do believe he shall make her an offer!"
Mary's heart sunk. Lizzy will never have him, Mary thought. Couldn't she have suggested me instead?
"Well," Mary replied. "How fortunate."
She buried her head back into her book, and no one so much as suspected that her heart was breaking.
