An Unlikely Alliance

What if Mr. Collins proposed to Mary instead of Elizabeth? And what if she said yes? When Mr. Collins arrives at Longbourn, he is, to everyone's surprise, smitten by the quiet and pious Mary rather than pursuing the expected match with Elizabeth or Jane. Initially relieved to be spared the prospect of Mr. Collins' attentions, Elizabeth soon finds herself grappling with a growing realization that Mary's engagement could bring unforeseen consequences. As Mary prepares for her impending nuptials, Elizabeth observes the curious alliance between her sister and their pompous cousin with a discerning eye. However, the arrival of Mr. Darcy complicates matters further as Mr. Collins seeks to ingratiate himself with Lady Catherine's nephew. Despite their initial animosity, Elizabeth, recognizing that Mr. Darcy may have some influence over Mr. Collins' patroness, finds herself increasingly drawn to the gentleman for the sake of her family.But will Mr. Darcy's intervention be enough, or will her desperate gamble put her family in a more dire position as Lady Catherine's scrutiny is turned in her direction? An Unlikely Alliance is a sweet, clean Pride and Prejudice variation that is suitable for all lovers of Jane Austen's romantic classic.