fake fic title: the third annual miss mistawis whist club benefit luncheon
Bernie Redfern and his millionaire dad have decided to set up a charity drive to help young women with consumption (in Cissy’s memory). Unfortunately, Mr Redfern’s idea for how to gather interest for this is *drumroll* a beauty contest! (It’s also a perfect way to get free advertising).
Barney’s head is in his hands, so Valancy tries to reorganize it to a whist tournament. She and Mr Redfern start a bet to see who will get more participants. It all comes head to head at the luncheon. Mr Redfern shows off his list of young ladies. Valancy shows off her list of old(er) ladies (mostly spinsters such as she used to be). The Stirlings arrive in shock and horror, only hearing the word “luncheon.”
In the end, all the women young and old contribute to the new fund, make new friends, and help the needy. Valancy is overjoyed to have given a purpose and friendship to those who wanted it. Mr Redfern takes all the credit. Barney goes back home to Bluebeard’s chamber and praises the peace and quiet he’ll get to enjoy until next year.