When Elizabeth’s Cat Chose Darcy by Rachelle Ayala

What if Mrs. Bennet were the sharpest mind in Hertfordshire—and Darcy never saw her coming?

At the Meryton Assembly, Darcy insults Elizabeth Bennet. Not once, but twice. First, as a common sharp-tongued harpy. Then, more cuttingly, as an intelligence suitable for a companion to his sister. While Elizabeth is still smarting, her mother goes to work. A contract appears within two days, binding Darcy to his hasty words heard by the entire assembly. He suggested her daughter was suitable? Excellent. He can pay for the privilege.
Elizabeth goes to Netherfield, seething with resentment but determined to vex the man by her very presence, take his money, guard her dignity, protect Jane’s prospects, and leave. Her mother, however, is playing a longer game.

Elizabeth’s cat, Cinnamon, has a different idea. She chooses Darcy on sight, claiming his lap and his bedchamber with the smug certainty of a creature who has never once been wrong about a man.
And then there’s Georgiana. Darcy’s sister is not shy—she is wounded, caged, and too frightened to think for herself after a scandal nobody will speak of. Darcy expects improvements and a strict programme. Elizabeth prescribes fun. And somehow, between throwing flour, climbing trees, and lobbing apple cores, a lonely girl learns to laugh, a proud man begins to listen, and Elizabeth forgets to guard her heart.

Caroline Bingley makes her move, Darcy blunders, and Elizabeth walks away.
Now Darcy must cross every boundary he has built to prove he has learned the one lesson Elizabeth taught his sister: love is not a programme to be managed. It is a choice to be made.
And Mrs. Bennet? Never underestimate a mother with five daughters, a rolling pin, and a plan. And a cat who chooses.

Features: Smart strategic Mrs. Bennet • Cat matchmaker with opinions • Elizabeth takes the job to vex Darcy • Enemies-to-lovers banter • Caged Georgiana finds her courage • Forced proximity • Elizabeth and Georgiana mischief • Scheming Caroline • klepto cat • Baker heritage • Found family warmth • Workplace romance • Guaranteed purr-worthy HEA