Headstrong Girls: A bit of mystery, a bit of love, all inspired by Jane Austen
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In Jane Austen's beloved classic, Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet's relationship with the wealthy Fitzwilliam Darcy suffers misunderstanding, heated argument, and family interference on the way to love. Darcy's opinionated aunt, Lady Catherine, demands that Elizabeth give up Darcy, and calls Elizabeth headstrong for failing to keep to her lower social sphere.
Elizabeth is headstrong -- determined, stubborn, fiery, strong-willed, adventurous, yet sensitive to others. This is what readers love about her and what inspires the creation of this book.
Headstrong Girls has seven short stories and a short film script: Who is in the secret passage at Pemberley? Did Lizzy Bennet commit murder? What is mailroom-clerk Lizzy hiding from CEO Darcy? Who is creating havoc on a South African wildlife preserve?
With a little mystery and a little romance, across the Regency, fantasy, and modern genres, the book takes Jane Austen’s characters to new wonderful adventures.
May headstrong girls find their hearts' desire!
* This book is co-written with Enid Wilson and Debra Anne Watson. It contains mature content.
June Williams
June has worked in a number of educational organizations, including Wake Forest University School of Law in Winston-Salem, NC and the Wake County Public School system in Raleigh, NC. She has spent most of her life working with students and maintains a passion for mentoring students to become the best human beings they can be. With undergraduate degrees in Social Work and Education, she also has a Master’s Degree in Education and Reading and a J.D. from Wake Forest University School of Law. She enjoys working with students of all ages and hopes to use this latest work to help them grow into wonderful Christian adults!
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Headstrong Girls - June Williams
Headstrong Girls
A bit of mystery, a bit of love, all inspired by Jane Austen
Headstrong Girls on Smashwords
Copyright © 2013 by Debra Anne Watson, June Williams and Enid Wilson
~*~*~*~
All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book.
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorised, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners.
Smashwords Edition License Notes
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About the Authors
Debra Anne Watson is a lover of books and the English language, who has always enjoyed reading and editing, but discovered the joys of writing but a few years ago. She works as a computer professional and lives with her active family in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
June Williams has always loved to write, although her first book – written at age eleven – had only one copy. In her checkered career path, she taught English as a Second Language, wrote for a U.S. Congressman and a business magazine, created technical manuals, ran a startup, and wrote advertising copy. She lives in Northern California.
Enid Wilson loves sexy romance. Her writing career began with a daily newspaper, writing educational advice for students. She then branched out into writing marketing materials and advertising copy. Enid lives in beautiful Sydney, Australia.
Cover design by Steamy D Publishing
Dear Readers
Debra Anne, June and Enid are longtime fans of Jane Austen’s writing, and have all written stories in the past, influenced by her works. All three have recognized Miss Austen’s tendency toward strong female characters, despite the common expectations of young ladies in her day.
Lady Catherine de Bourgh thought she insulted Elizabeth Bennet by calling her an obstinate, headstrong girl,
but Miss Austen created several female characters who could be described in such terms. This is the inspiration for this collection of short stories and script in Regency, Fantasy and Modern genres.
For some added adventure, we realized that such characters also tend to find themselves creating or trapped within a mystery, and our heroines had no trouble fitting that mold. Do not be surprised to find mischief is afoot.
Along with six stories and one script by each author, we have included a tag-along story, begun by Enid, who created the setting with her vivid descriptions and foundation. Then she passed the story to June, who added further unexpected twists before Debra Anne brought the story to its climax.
We hope you enjoy these adventures.
Debra Anne, June and Enid
Dedications and Acknowledgements
From Debra Anne Watson
So much gratitude is due to my dear friends Aimée and Cliff Avery for their constant support and inspiration, Amy D for your expert editing, and Enid Wilson and June Williams for inviting me to join in this venture. I also thank my husband Bob and our two children for your patience and your sense of humor, always encouraging and supporting me in everything I do – I love you.
From June Williams
This is dedicated to my sister and brother, Lynn and Lambert, who have been enthusiastic and supportive about my writing.
My thanks to Victoria Claughton and Patrice Murphy Hamill for catching plot holes and improving the storyline; their welcome fingerprints are all over my story.
Major kudos and a round of applause go to Ruth A. Meacham and also Rachel Piven-Kehrle, who are both Jane Austen fans and lawyers. They contributed their legal knowledge to ensure that No Cupid Contract
actually makes sense.
I wouldn't be here without Enid Wilson and Debra Anne Watson, who shared their names with me on this book and were incredibly patient when my real-life issues cropped up. Special thanks to Enid for being ringleader and queen of formatting.
From Enid Wilson
Dear tJean, Michael, Debra Anne, June, Mei, Mihaela and all my online fans, this is for you. Without you, I wouldn’t have created SteamyDarcy. Quoting Mr. Darcy, I might have talked more about you, had I felt less.
About the Authors
Dear Readers
Dedications and Acknowledgements
Table of Contents
Regency
A Detour in Meryton
A Welcoming Nightmare
I Will Not Marry Him!
The Scheming Gentlemen
Fantasy
Scream
A Lady’s Club
Modern
No Cupid Contract
Pride and Preservation
A Detour in Meryton
By
Debra Anne Watson
What made Elizabeth revise her opinion of Darcy earlier?
Elizabeth had not wanted to walk to Meryton. She had wandered several miles before her sisters had even greeted the day, so she did not need the exercise. Even so, she would have been pleased to spend more time out of doors, despite the eager company of her youngest sister, Lydia, who had insisted on going into town to purchase ribbon.
Today was different, however. When Lydia had announced her intentions, their mother had quickly taken control of the plans. Mr. Collins will go with you,
Mrs. Bennet announced, for he will want to see what a prosperous town our little Meryton is, and he will want to meet your Aunt Philips.
It was at this point that Elizabeth decided against the outing. She glanced at the hallway door, seeking an excuse. Perhaps her father would wish for her company today.
Lizzy, you must go too!
Mrs. Bennet trilled. Mr. Collins will certainly enjoy your company as you walk.
Elizabeth looked up at her mother, locking her gaze. I … I believe Papa will need me to help him with the ledgers, Mama. It would be best if I remain.
You are such a headstrong girl, Lizzy Bennet, but I will have my say. You will join your sisters and escort Mr. Collins to Meryton!
Yes, ma’am,
Elizabeth replied quietly, defeated. Her only relief came when Jane also decided to join them. They left the room together to collect their bonnets and pelisses, and rejoined Lydia, Kitty and Mr. Collins in front of the house a few minutes later.
Mr. Collins was promptly at her side, and took her arm, holding it firmly as they walked slowly along the road, falling further and further behind Lydia and Kitty. She had never heard someone talk so much of chimneypieces, window glazing or shelves, and she wished she could block out his voice; but it was of such timbre and volume, she was unable.
When she thought things could get no worse, Lydia and Kitty took off running (Running! In town!) to greet their favourite officers. Elizabeth held her free hand up to her forehead and rubbed her temple with her thumb. She sighed, but her nearest companion seemed not to notice.
Lizzy, are you all right?
Jane asked from her other side, startling Elizabeth.
Yes, Jane, I am well.
She dropped her hand and shook her head, trying to find a means of escape. Then inspiration struck. I think I must get out of the sun for a bit. Perhaps I should go to Mr. Garrett's.
Jane smiled with understanding, and rested her hand on Elizabeth’s shoulder. I think that an excellent idea.
Mr. Collins looked between the two sisters with sudden alarm. Cousin Elizabeth, no! You must not be calling on gentlemen.
Elizabeth's jaw dropped, and before she could respond, Jane clarified, He is the bookseller, Mr. Collins. Lizzy is often there to pick up books for our father …
And to seek new novels and romances for myself,
Elizabeth quickly added, with a gleam of mischief in her eye.
Oh, Cousin, perhaps I should accompany you. You do not look well, and perhaps I can help you select some more appropriate reading.
He tightened his arm around hers, and Elizabeth was sure her face had turned some odd shade of puce.
You need not fear for Lizzy, Mr. Collins,
Jane interjected. She reads moralities and sermons as well, though it is our younger sister, Mary, who truly enjoys the study of them.
She made a point of directing her gaze up the street. Why do you not come with me to meet the officers Kitty and Lydia are speaking to? Let Lizzy be,
she looked pointedly at her sister, and perhaps she can select an appropriate book for you to read aloud to us tonight.
Collins looked at each of the ladies with him, and then to their younger sisters up the street. Slowly, he released Elizabeth's arm, then turned to offer his other arm to Jane. Very well.
As they walked away, Elizabeth turned toward the bookshop, rubbing her temple until she turned the corner and was out of the others’ sight.
Miss Bennet, how good of you to come in today,
Mr. Garrett greeted her warmly. I have just received the book your father ordered.
Wonderful. Do you have any other new arrivals?
They are on the table, as usual. I think you may find a couple that interest you.
She immediately began sorting through the books, looking at the etchings in one or reading a few pages of another, setting aside the ones she considered purchasing. She did not notice how much time she spent in this activity before her solitude was interrupted.
Good day, Miss Bennet.
Elizabeth looked up to see Mr. Darcy bowing before her.
Mr. Darcy.
She curtseyed, biting her tongue to prevent a disdainful remark.
He moved to stand beside her at the table, and looked at her open book. Je vois, Mademoiselle, que vous lisez Les Martyrs. Est-ce que le livre vous plait?
(I see, Miss, that you are reading The Martyrs. Do you like the book?)
She looked up, evaluating his expression, and politely answered,Oui, c'est très intéressant.
(Yes, it is very interesting.) She closed the book and ran her hand along the binding, then smiled slyly. After all, to become accomplished, a lady must be fluent in the modern languages, and improve her mind through extensive reading.
His eyes dropped for a moment, but he could not keep the corners of his mouth from lifting. You must know you have no reason to improve in that quarter.
He continued more quietly, Other ladies, however …
He half smiled, and Elizabeth thought she almost saw evidence of a dimple.
She nodded her head and collected three books, including Les Martyrs. I must be going, Mr. Darcy. I am sure my sisters will be wondering what has become of me.
Certainly, Miss Bennet. May I?
He held out his hands and, with a tilt of her head, she handed him her books. He carried them to the proprietor's desk, and while Mr. Garrett wrapped them (and her father's book), Darcy returned to her side and remarked, Your sisters seemed well occupied when I saw them a short while ago, and it is likely Mr. Bingley has joined them.
Elizabeth looked up at him quizzically. May I ask why you did not join them as well?
A bit of colour infused his cheeks and he looked at the ground. There were several people in their party,
his voice dropped, and I am not easy making new acquaintances.
So you will not give yourself the trouble,
she remarked coolly.
I am ill qualified to recommend myself to strangers.
He bowed his head. I cannot catch their tone of conversation, or appear interested in their concerns, as I often see done.
I see. So it is not simply concern that you will find them to be merely tolerable?
He was stunned by her retort, but was unable to answer, as Mr. Garrett caught her attention and held out her package of books. You are certain they are not too heavy, Miss Bennet?
No, thank you, I will be fine.
She smiled warmly at the man. Good day, Mr. Garrett.
Darcy held the door for Elizabeth and then took the books from her hands. Once the door was firmly shut, he asked, Do you not see, Miss Elizabeth, that I sometimes make remarks when in new company that I come to regret? That on occasion, I find people far more than tolerable?
She looked up to meet his eyes, and caught his cautious smile. Yes, there are dimples. She examined him for a long moment, and saw his cheeks go pinker and his eyes widen in inquiry. Dropping her gaze, she blushed as well. I am sorry, Mr. Darcy, I did not.
His smile faded, but returned with a hopeful thought. Then perhaps we can begin anew? With no misunderstandings?
Elizabeth nodded slowly, but took several seconds before she looked up. I think that a splendid idea.
She smiled, and he returned a full grin.
He put her package in his saddlebag and untethered his horse. Perhaps we should join the others then,
he offered her his arm, and she accepted it, and if I misspeak, you could step on my foot.
She laughed, I shall try to protect you, sir.
They strolled comfortably along the street, chatting amicably, then turned the corner to spy the assembled group. She sensed a sudden tension overtaking in him, and tried a humorous remark, which seemed to help for a moment. Then, just as she met Jane's inquisitive eyes, she felt his arm tighten. This must be more than just meeting Mr. Collins. She looked up, and followed Darcy's dark gaze toward a man she did not recognize amidst the group. She squeezed his arm, but he did not relax.
Oh, Darcy, Miss Elizabeth! You have found each other; how grand!
Bingley greeted them. Still, Darcy remained tense.
The stranger, who seemed rather pale, tipped his hat. Darcy.
Wickham,
coldly replied a rather red-faced Darcy, with only the slightest inclination of the head. It is surprising to see you here.
I am … joining the militia regiment encamped here,
the man replied.
Is it not wonderful, Lizzy?
Lydia interrupted, bouncing on her toes and grinning dreamily. I was so pleased when Mr. Denny told us so.
Elizabeth sensed even more tension from Mr. Darcy, something she had not thought possible. That is excellent news, I am sure. But should we not be on our way? You have yet to make your purchases, and we must stop by Aunt Philips's yet.
I suppose we must go.
Lydia looked downcast for a moment, but recovered her sprits quickly. I shall ask her to invite Mr. Wickham to her card party tomorrow night!
Elizabeth sighed, but could find no tactful way out of the situation. Thankfully, Denny and Wickham excused themselves quickly.
Next, before the party could be on their way, Elizabeth had to introduce her cousin to Mr. Darcy.
It is a great honour to meet you, sir!
The parson bowed so low, it looked like he was about to kiss Darcy's boots, and Elizabeth fought hard to stifle a laugh. Your aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, is my most esteemed patroness. I am sure you will be pleased to know that I called on her yesterday morning, before departing to visit my dear cousins.
He grinned sweetly at Elizabeth. She and your betrothed, Miss de Bourgh, were in the best of health.
Elizabeth looked up at Darcy, hearing this news, and noticed he seemed to be clenching his jaw. It took several seconds for him to icily respond: I thank you, Mr. Collins, but I must correct you in that I know my cousin is not well, sadly; and neither are we engaged.
He tipped his head quickly, and keeping Elizabeth's arm, began walking up the street.
I am sorry for that, sir. He is a distant cousin, but also the heir to Longbourn.
He looked at her sincerely. Worry not, Miss Elizabeth, I realize all too well that one cannot choose his relatives.
The others followed, most waiting outside the milliners while Lydia selected some ribbon, and then continuing on to the Philipses'. Darcy was unsure about staying, but Bingley seemed content, and Mrs. Philips welcomed them gladly. They did not remain for long, only enough for the ladies to impart some minor news, and for Jane to give her aunt a small parcel from Mrs. Bennet. An invitation to the card party was secured for Mr. Wickham as well as the residents of Netherfield.
When they departed, Jane and Bingley looked at each other, as did Darcy and Elizabeth. Any question of the gentlemen accompanying the party back to Longbourn was answered silently.
Jane and Bingley started off, and Elizabeth was standing with Darcy, beside his horse, when Mr. Collins approached her. Shall we return home, Cousin Elizabeth?
he asked in an oily voice, holding out his arm.
She tried not to shudder, but Darcy noticed. I have already asked Miss Elizabeth to walk with me, sir. Perhaps Miss Catherine and Miss Lydia would enjoy your company,
he suggested coolly. He then