This is the shortest chapter I have written in a while, but I wanted to get something out. I am working on the dinner with the Bennets. That one will make this shorter one worth it. Enjoy.

Richard was in a good mood. There was nothing that quite measured up to witnessing someone getting their comeuppance. He chuckled to himself again, reliving the moment the rogue realized what had just happened. Even Darcy couldn't hold back his laughter. He had shocked a few people in the crowd, as they had not had the privilege of seeing his smile before. They hadn't been sure he could smile. It had been hinted that Wickham would likely be taking a trip to the Australian colonies. It was a huge relief to know that the scoundrel would no longer be a problem.

Richard checked his coat in the mirror. Within the next hour, they would be leaving to dine with the Bennet's. He admitted to himself that he was a little nervous. He had heard much of the Bennet's from Kate, and the information had been verified by his cousin and Bingley, so he would not be taken by surprise. Regardless to what may come, he hoped to make a good impression on this family. Satisfied with what he saw, Richard left his room and made for Bingley's study, where he was sure to find his cousin and new friend.

As soon as he made it to the main floor, he found himself accosted by Miss Bingley and her sister, Mrs. Hurst. "Colonel! You are a miracle worker indeed! You must tell us, how did you do it?" asked Mrs. Hurst.

"How did I do what, Madame?"

"How did you convince our brother to take leave of this simple country dwelling, and spend the holiday in Town? We have been trying for weeks and he would not be moved from his decision."

"I did nothing, Madame. My cousin and I were talking of our plans and your brother wished to join us for a time. He has no plans to quit this fine house entirely, just for a few weeks."

Miss Bingley smirked, "Well, that may be enough time to convince him to look elsewhere for a permanent residence. I must say, this area could do with some better society. I have never been so bored. And I do not see why we must dine with the Bennet's again. I wish Charles would realize he could do better."

"Better? I have heard that the Bennet's are a very respectable family, and have much to offer."

"Their circumstances have only recently improved, about a year or so ago. Though they may have fortunes now, I do not see that they are enough to tempt my brother. They have no real connections. They have an aunt who is said to have an estate in Somerset, but she rarely visits. Mrs. Bennet has a brother in trade and he resides in Cheapside. I cannot see how that would help my brother."

"I was not aware that Bingley needed such help. He seems to have been able to make some advantageous connections with his friends. Fortunes, whatever they may be, can always change. I believe you own esteemed father made his in trade."

The ladies offered him weak smiles. "Yes, he did." offered Mrs. Hurst.

"Well then, I do not see how having relatives in trade is so detrimental. Be at ease. Your brother knows what he is doing. If you will excuse me, ladies, I must find my cousin."

"I see you have informed your sisters of your plans for Town."

"What have they done now, Colonel?"

"Well, they were waiting for me to make an appearance and proceeded to thank me for your change of mind on going to Town for the holiday. They also seemed to hoped I would convince you to have a change of heart on the Bennet family."

Bingley knocked back his glass. "I do wish that they would desist. What they want will not be. It cannot be."

"What do they want?"

"For Bingley to marry Georgiana," answered Darcy.

"Georgiana! She is but fifteen, not to mention no where near ready to settle."

"Fear not, Colonel. I see her as a younger sister. I could never take her to wife. How did your discussion go?"

"And here I thought she only had designs on Darcy. Well, they were sure to mention that their fortunes were newly acquired and their connections were lacking. I am not so kind as you and my cousin. I reminded them that fortunes change and that your own father was a tradesman."

"And so they should be reminded. It is not as though we are not still involved in fathers business. I think I shall encourage them to remain in Town when I return."

"Yes, it is far past time for you to be your own man. If you have your way, that time will be short anyway, so you might as well enjoy it while you can."

Bingley just smiled and shook his head. His next remark was cut off by a knock on the door, announcing their carriage.

The three mile drive was made in silence, each man anticipating the evening for differing reasons. Bingley had thoughts of only Jane. He wondered if she would wear the blue dress. It looked absolutely lovely on her. Darcy thought hard on his feelings towards the second eldest. He was fascinated by her, and his heart did pick up speed at the sight of her. She was kind and fiery, and she lived by her convictions. He enjoyed her humor, it was very much like his own. Richard thought on the fact that he needed to make the best impression possible. Richard realized he was fooling himself. Given the fact that the entire situation was completely ideal, he found that he cared deeply for Kate. He could easily see her as his, and had in fact, already done so. He had determined to resign his position within the year. Kate would be eighteen in May. She would have her season in Town if she wished, but he intended to make his sentiment known at his mother's Christmas Ball. Georgiana had all but said directly that Kate had similar thoughts. In reality, he would wait as long as she wanted. Darcy had mentioned some lucrative business deals he could invest in, and he had saved most of his wages over the years. He had time and opportunity, he could wait.

Due to the discussion he had with the ladies in the hall, Miss Bingley had decided to ride with her sister and brother in law. Both ladies complained of a headache. Their brother hoped that meant they would leave the party early, as did Darcy and Richard. They had secretly hoped they would beg off altogether. The carriage turned down the drive to Longbourn. The gentlemen readied themselves. It was time.

I had to put the sisters in their place a little. I feel like the Colonel is a little less worried about offending someone. He is respectable, but he believes some things just have to be done. I am hoping to have some Bennet character development in the next chapter. It will be a few days. I believe it will be a whopper.