Gerald Archer, 53, was born in Oxford, Mississippi, the third of a long line of wealthy bankers. He was educated at the finest preparatory schools, where he learned all the social graces and a few social vices, too.
After graduating from preparatory school, Gerald enrolled at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. Even though he was a good student, he also liked to party, and his wild behavior eventually led to his expulsion. He went back to Oxford and enrolled at the University of Mississippi.
When he graduated from college, Gerald began work as a junior account executive at the Bank of Mississippi. He enjoyed banking well enough and excelled at it. He stayed with the bank through all the ups and downs over the years. As a result, they steadily promoted him in recognition of his loyalty and excellent work.
When he was 23, he sought out his high school sweetheart, Amelia Crawford. He'd once given her a promise ring, and he told her that even though they'd lost touch for a while, he still wanted to keep that promise if she did too. Gerald and Amelia had a grand wedding two summers later, and in the years that followed, they welcomed a son and a daughter into their family.
Gerald is friendly with the bank's wealthy customers, such as Philip Fontaine, and always ensures they receive the best service. Some say he's even willing to temporarily bend the rules on occasion to help them out of a tight spot. Fontaine and his peers appreciated Gerald's efforts on their behalf, but they've yet to fully embrace him as part of their social circle.
Gerald continues to do favors for Oxford's elite movers and shakers, confident that it will one day get him the recognition he feels he deserves. The fact that it hasn't worked yet is a source of endless frustration for him.
