Notes: There is no insult in this story.
PPP
As the Netherfield's party stepped into the ballroom, Darcy felt a sense of unease as he noticed several pairs of eyes turning towards them. He had always despised being the centre of attention, and tonight was no exception. However, he tried to maintain a composed demeanour as Sir William - the gracious host - approached them with a warm smile. Sir William proceeded to introduce them to the most prominent families of the surrounding area.
First, Sir William introduced the party to his family and to Mr. Frederick Carey– Thomas's brother-in-law. At the age of 45, Frederick was already a widower and had an 8-year-old daughter. Just a few weeks ago, he had become engaged to Charlotte Lucas. Although they were not madly in love, they had developed a mutual respect and shared many common interests. Charlotte was overjoyed with the engagement as it means she would not be a financial burden on her parents any more. Moreover, Margareth Carey – Frederick's daughter – was an adorable girl. As for Mr. Carey, he was happy with the prospect of marrying Charlotte. He found her to be a sensitive, intelligent lady and enjoyed her company. He was confident that she would make an excellent mother to his daughter.
Next, Sir William introduced them to the Bennet family. Darcy took the opportunity to observe the three Miss Bennets. His gaze first fell upon the eldest, Miss Jane Bennet, who had all the attributes of a typical woman that Bingley would fall for – blonde, slender, and with a delicate smile on her face. Darcy's attention then shifted to the next sister, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, who was very different from her older sister in terms of physical appearance. No one would guess Miss Elizabeth and Miss Bennet were sisters. Finally, he noticed the third sister, Miss Mary, who was similar to Miss Elizabeth in appearance but less attractive to Darcy's taste.
Bingley, with a big smile on his face, approached Jane and asked her to dance. Meanwhile, Mrs. Bennet, who was known for her excellent conversational skills, immediately struck up a conversation with Caroline Bingley, who was standing nearby. Elizabeth and Mary joined the conversation, and the group talked about various topics.
Mr. Bennet, at a gesture from his wife, began a conversation with Mr. Darcy, and Frederick Carey joined them. After a few minutes, they discovered they shared an interest in steam machines. Thomas commented, "At Oxford, we had the privilege of meeting James Watt and witnessing one of his first steam engines in operation. It was then that I began to take an interest in engineering and machinery." Looking at Mr. Darcy, he asked, "Did you attend Oxford, Mr. Darcy?"
Darcy smiled slightly and replied, "Yes. In fact, the Darcys has been studying at Oxford for several generations."
Mr. Carey, curious to know more, asked Darcy, "Have you had the opportunity to meet James Watt and see one of his machines in operation?"
Darcy shook his head and replied, "No, I haven't met him in person, but I am familiar with his machines. As a member of the Royal Scientific Society, I am well-informed about the latest developments in the field of engineering…"
The three gentlemen continued their conversation until the next set began. Frederick Carey went to fetch Charlotte, and Mr. Bennet his wife.
Later that night, Darcy found himself hidden behind some plants on the balcony when he overheard a conversation that he did not like at all.
"…Jane, you need to pay more attention to Mr. Darcy because he is much wealthier than Mr. Bingley. Besides, he is the nephew of an earl!" Mrs. Phillips was speaking loudly, thinking that no one was listening to their conversation.
Jane responded in a soft voice, "But Aunt, I prefer Mr. Bingley. He is handsome and kind, and he asked me to dance twice. Mr. Darcy didn't even notice me!"
Upon hearing this, Mrs. Phillips frowned and lightly admonished her, "You are the most beautiful lady in Meryton, and I am certain that if you make an effort, he will notice you! Mr. Darcy has £10,000 a year and Mr. Bingley has only £5,000!"
Jane looked down, and not very convinced, nodded. After the ladies returned to the ballroom, Darcy came out of his hiding place. For the remainder of the night, Darcy surreptitiously watched the Miss Bennets, paying close attention to Jane in particular. He learned that Miss Bennet was the daughter of Mr. Bennet's first marriage, and he realized that this was the reason why she seemed different from her sisters. He also learned the Phillipses, did not have a good relationship with Jane's parents.