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Chapter 1
She looked out her window longingly; the sun was shining so brightly she was sure she could feel the warmth. Ah, but that was the difference, for though she was sure that she could feel it, she knew she would not. From the day that her father died, from the moment she was caught weeping so miserably, it had been decided that she was of a sickly constitution. Her mother swore that even the slightest exertion would kill her. Anne really did not know what to think. She rather knew herself to not be sick, but after five long years of being told she was an invalid and being treated as one, she was wondering if some day she would come to believe that she truly was one. She rarely ever got to venture out doors, and when she did she was invariably bundled up so tightly she could barely move. But this was all done for her benefit she was told. She longed to tell everyone: her mother, he quack of a doctor, and her poor sacrificing companion that all she wanted was a breath of fresh air, to feel the wind blow through her hair, to pick the flowers that grew in the park around Rosings. But that would not do and would surely lead to a huge row with her mother. Anne longed to point out to her mother that if she was an invalid and in danger of dying any second, should she not have the luxury of having some of her wishes granted.
Anne was shocked out her reverie by the harsh noise her mother's cane made against the hard floor. She jumped away from her window and took her seat close to the fire. Conversing with her mother was most trying. If she did appear to be an invalid it was only because of her mother and her tiresome ideas and plans, Anne thought ruefully. Lady Catherine walked in the room rather briskly, "Anne, girl, where are you? The most distressing new has reached me and I hardly know what to do, for I am sure it will make you as positively ill as it made me." Anne tried to steel herself for her mother's onslaught, but there was no chance to prepare as Lady Catherine plunged on, "Darcy is to be married. Darcy is married. The nerve of him, after all I did for him. To marry that nit of a country girl that uncouth Miss. - er, Miss --, I seem to have forgotten her name. Not that it is any matter, for they shall not be welcomed here and I surely will not entertain the idea of ever visiting Pemberley now. Although, Poor Georgiana, what shall become of her now that, that ungrateful girl is to be Mrs. Darcy..." Lady Catherine trailed off apparently deep in thought. She looked up, when she heard her daughter softly say, "Miss. Bennet. It was Miss. Elizabeth Bennet that was married to cousin Darcy was it not? He seemed quite taken with her when she visited here." It was almost as though Anne was speaking to herself, and it might well have been since Lady Catherine took no notice and purposefully stormed out of the room. For what purpose, Anne hardly knew. And she was far busy contemplating the news that Darcy was actually married.
Miss. Elizabeth Bennet was most certainly beautiful although not beautiful in the current fashion. But Anne could see how Darcy had fallen in love with her. She was warm, out-going, and incredibly witty. She in some ways was everything Darcy was not and yet she could meet him word for word, book for book. Anne had never desired Darcy's love, though she would not have minded his friendship or respect. She did not envy Elizabeth for having won Darcy's heart, though she knew her mother did. No, Anne envied the charming Miss. Bennet for another reason. She envied her for winning the love of a good man, for being the light of his life. Anne sighed softly, "If only I could find love like that. Likely I will just be married off to the highest bidder, for who could love me. They all love my money."
Anne did not need a mirror to study her features. She new what she looked like, and was able to dispassionately able to assess herself. Clear skin that was far too pale from lack of sun. Eyes that in her mind were a murky unimpressive gold-flecked brown. They looked far too big for her face with its hollowed cheeks. A figure that was very indistinctive, probably she though rationally because as an invalid I cannot eat anything. And thick light brown hair that was pulled back so tightly, it gave her a headache. And still despite it all Anne though doubtfully, "I could be un-ugly, I am quite sure if I had proper clothes. Snuff colored browns only succeed in making me look even more sickly and pale." However, as usual, she kept her thoughts to herself and moved to take a seat near the window. After looking wistfully out the window again, she picked up her book and continued her reading. It was her only solace, her only escape. If she could not leave the confines of her home, at least she could read about other girls doing so.
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Days went by, and Lady Catherine could not bring herself to stop speaking ill of the new Mrs. Darcy. And it irked her that Anne seemed so complacent about it. Did that stupid girl not realize that Darcy had ruined her? All of London, all England knew she, Anne deBourgh was to have been the next Mrs. Darcy. And now Darcy had gone and married a lowly country girl and thrown the heir of Rosings Park aside like damaged goods. The only thing to do would be to visit Matlock and discuss the matter with her brother. Surely they would have to cut Darcy, if not for her sake for Anne's.
Anne did not know whether to laugh of cry when she heard they were leaving for Matlock. She would have a chance to escape. But her mother was in such a foul mood, and would be sure to upset Lord and Lady Matlock. She knew her mother intended to discuss Darcy with them, and there was no way they would cut Darcy. They loved him as a son, he was Richard's best friend and after his parents died, he had always turned to them. Aside from her mother's antics, Anne rather dreaded going to Matlock for she knew Richard was there. Richard her handsome, heroic, amiable cousin. She knew Richard liked her, or rather pitied her and tried to be kind and that was the worst cut of all. She did not want his pity, she wanted his respect and she wanted something more. What that something more was, she herself was not sure. All she knew was that when he was near she did not look quite so pale and her stomach twisted into knots that were as painful as they were pleasurable. The last words he had said to her were "Farewell coz", and how she had cherished them. He was her only friend, he and Georgiana, though she was sure he did not consider her thus.
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Anne was exhausted by the time they reached Matlock. Of course she was not used to traveling such distances as her mother told her uncle. But Anne knew and if the twinkle in his eye was any indication, her uncle also knew, that traveling with the venerable Lady Catherine would tire anyone to the bone. Lord Matlock sent Anne off to bed with a kindly kiss on the head and pat of the cheek. What he told Lady Catherine, Anne did not know, for all she heard were snippets of her mother's angry words and her uncle's more soothing tones. "... Darcy... ungrateful girl", "...in the morning...", "...my poor girl...", "... we all love Anne...", "...heartbroken...", "...Richard is most concerned...". Anne started; Richard was concerned about her, how very strange. Perhaps, he did more than just pity her. And she went to bed with a smile, forgetting her angry mother and her kind smiling uncle. Though she did think his eyes twinkled just like her cousins.
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One of the wonderful things of being an invalid, Anne thought as she awoke was that she could sleep however long she wished. Her mother did not disturb her in this. Her window had been opened earlier, and Anne sat up in bed taking in the view. Matlock was a grand estate, but still in her mind it was nothing to Rosings - her home and a little voice in the back of her mind whispered, her prison.
Anne took her time dressing for no particular reason, other than the fact that she could. She was sure her mother would be far too busy speaking to Lord Matlock to notice her absence. The knock on her door startled her a bit, for apparently her absence was noticed. "Anne dear - I have brought you your breakfast..." called a soft voice. Just the kind of voice a mother should have Anne thought reflectively. The voice belonged to Lady Matlock. Entering the room, Anne thought, Lady Matlock looked just as sweet as her voice sounded. As Anne sipped her tea, Lady Matlock filled her in on the latest family gossip. She had attended Darcy's wedding with Lord Matlock and the rest of the family. She declared quite candidly that she had been quite concerned when she heard of Darcy's engagement. But Richard assured her Miss. Bennet, Elizabeth as Lady Matlock called her, was a perfect complement to Darcy. "All fire in ice and so perfect together," pronounced Lady Matlock before blushing hotly and looking at Anne sharply.
Anne knew everyone wondered at her attachment to Darcy. They wondered if she had formed one. She did think Darcy to be rather fine and extremely intelligent. But love, she never had loved Darcy, and sometimes she wondered why. They were too much a like she had finally decided. Both far too introspective she had concluded. Darcy had never been the same after his father's death, and Anne had never had a chance to make real friends due to her condition. No though, she desired Darcy's regard it was only as a cousin and a sister, not she thought as a lover. This thought caused twin spots of color on her face.
Lady Matlock noticed the Anne's blush and feared she had overstepped. But Richard had seemed sure Darcy's wedding would not trouble Anne. In fact, he had seemed to think she might take pleasure in hearing about it. But then Lady Matlock thought, Richard really was insufferably arrogant at times. And how well did he really know Anne, two visits in a twelve month signified almost nothing. Anne however quickly put an end to Lady Matlock's worrying.
"I had noticed that Darcy seemed to regard Miss. Bennet rather highly when he last visited us. In fact," she said with a lightness Lady Matlock thought was strained, "there was a time when I thought Richard was taken by her too. In any case," she went on, " I cannot say that I was surprised to hear of their engagement. It in all ways seems too perfect. She is all that is charming, lively, and spirited, and that perhaps is just what Darcy needs. And Miss. Bennet - err Mrs. Darcy, I am used to my mother's manner of speaking, my apologies," Anne cringed at the unintentional slight she had given the absent Mrs. Darcy, "has the advantage of learning from Darcy as he is quite an intelligent man." She looked up at her Aunt smiling at the pretty picture she had created, and Lady Matlock thought abstractedly, why Anne is quite charming when she smiles. "Why I must call Georgiana? For it would not be right to discuss her brother's wedding without her..."
Anne was almost too happy; she felt she would burst, if it were at all possible. Her mother was still closeted away with Lord Matlock, and she was chatting freely with her cousin and aunt. Georgiana, Anne thought was just the same. She was just as shy and reticent as always, and tall. A good three inches, at least, more than Anne. She was all said and done, quite handsome thought Anne. Yet, despite it, Anne could not envy Georgiana, for she saw a sadness in her eyes that mirrored the emptiness Anne felt. However, with Lady Matlock the girls forgot all their troubles. And in no time, they were laughing and giggling, just as they should.
It was into this room filled with girlish laughter that Lady Catherine walked in. Her eyes immediately turned accusingly to Lady Matlock and silence settled across the room. "Anne," she said in a voice that brooked no disagreement, "you should see that you are properly rested, it would not do you good to fall unwell." Without stopping for breath she continued, "I have business in London, I shall have to leave you here for sometime. Perhaps you will be able to convince your cousin that her place is with us now and not with the current occupants of Pemberley." Touching her lips to Anne's cheeks, Lady Catherine was gone. Anne was mortified, Georgiana angry and humiliated, and Lady Matlock was entertaining some not very pleasant thoughts of misfortune that could befall Lady Catherine on her trip to London.
Chapter 2
Anne gazed out the window, imaging the warmth of the sun, the smell of grass wet with dew, and the music of the rustling wind and bluebirds. She wasn't sure that there were actually any bluebirds out, but they were her favorite bird. Far prettier than the black crow or the common robin. She was so absorbed in her world, that she did not notice anyone enter the room. She could not feel the curious gaze on her back. And when she heard his voice, she jumped from the shock. Not letting him finish, she said in a voice she feared sounded rather testy, "How long have you been standing there!" She knew she sounded missish, and it made her frown all the more. But Richard didn't seem to mind though, and laughed rather amusedly. "Come now Anne, what sort of greeting is that to give you cousin"? Anne wore her indignation like a mask, and did not relish giving it up. But she could not stay mad long at Richard, no one could. He could even charm Lady Catherine, which was no small task. "It is just that you interrupted my daydream. And you must admit that, that was most unkind. For I was just imaging that I was outside walking in the park, and you know I seldom am given the opportunity. Most rude, Richard." It came out so quietly and in such a rush, that Richard had to strain to understand. "Why Anne your mother is not here so why imagine being outside, when you can be." And he added impishly, " You are not such an invalid that you cannot accompany me on a morning stroll, are you?" At this Anne had to smile, and Richard, just as his mother, was struck, by how charming Anne looked when she smiled.
The walk was above satisfactory, Anne thought, though it could have been more lively. In Richard's presence, Anne felt the need to exert herself. And they had talked quite a bit. But Georgiana was in no humor for laughter. Both Richard and Anne had noticed this, and their conversation had slowly petered out. Richard always worried about Georgiana, Anne thought. He worried almost as much about her as Darcy, and he was only her cousin. But Anne rebuked herself harshly, remembering that he was also her guardian, and shouldn't he be concerned, he is her cousin after all. Selfishness is not becoming she reminded herself. Richard was indeed concerned about Georgiana, for he disliked seeing young ladies in his company so despondent. But she was like Darcy, and she would not come around until she was ready to. In the mean time, he would be there in case she needed to talk. Between Wickham's and her brother's wedding, he was sure she had much on her mind. Anne knew what Georgiana's trouble was; it was the same as her trouble, Lady Catherine. And after fully chastising herself for doubting Richard's motives, she decided that she would take it upon herself to speak to him about Georgiana.
Finding Richard alone the next morning, Anne mentioned her concern for Georgiana. Richard nodded and looked thoughtful, then smiled as he came up with what he thought a clever idea. "There is nothing our Georgie loves more than music. And you Anne I think have yet to have proper lessons. So why not engage Georgie as a music master. It is sure to keep her from dwelling on Lady Catherine's words and missing her brother. Besides," he smirked," there is nothing I would like more than to see my favorite cousins performing together." Feigning innocence, Anne asked, "And how do you propose to make Darcy sing?" "Ah Darc," Richard leaned back in his chair, "you know I love you girls the best." And though he had included Georgie, he had said he loved her, and Anne was happy to leave it at that.
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Almost a month had gone by and Lady Catherine had still not returned to Matlock. Anne was not so very concerned, for with the company of Georgiana, her aunt, and uncle, there was nothing else she needed. (Richard had unfortunately needed to rejoin his regiment, but he was expected back shortly.) Georgiana on the other hand, Anne thought a little guiltily, was not quite as happy, but then she was so very attached to Darcy. He was like a father, mother, and brother to her. Anne had tried to control her emotions when she saw Georgiana seek out Richard. How could she be jealous of her cousin, she quizzed herself. Georgiana merely looked on Richard as something of a brother.
Georgiana was clearly not reading her book as it was upside down and she was looking idly out the window. Though Anne longed to complete her novel, there were only 20 odd pages left; she couldn't bear to see Georgiana so miserable. Plus she added to herself for extra effect, this would be penance for persistently questioning her cousins' behavior. "Georgie," Anne called, "I do so want to see you wear the dress you wore at Darcy's wedding. "Oh truly Anne?" Georgiana asked in that sweet way that was hers. And Anne good naturedly replied, "There is nothing I would desire more," so what if that was a lie she thought when she saw Georgiana's smile.
Georgiana perked up considerably at Anne's suggestion, and ran to her room. Caught up in Georgiana's excitement, Anne followed swiftly behind. And from outside the door, laughter, mirth, and merriment could be heard. When all was done, Georgiana looked exceptionally well. Her lilac dress suited her to perfection. Though Anne's fingers were not as nimble as most lady's maids, Georgiana's hair had never looked better they decided. And they had even found some purple flowers in the sitting room to put in Georgiana's hair. Pleased with her appearance, Georgiana was determined to see Anne look just as handsome. With that in mind she spoke. "Why Annie, it is your turn now." Anne smiled her slow smile, pleased that someone had thought of her.
Looking in her wardrobe though, Anne's face quickly fell. Why there was nothing at all for her to wear. Everything was so dark and black and brown and blue. And far too frilly and fussy, it just did not suit at all. Georgiana saw Anne's disappointment, and refused to let her cousin feel left out. "Why Anne you have the most beautiful hair. How could I never have noticed it before? There is such a lovely golden sheen to it. Now just close your eyes." Minutes later when Anne opened her eyes, she couldn't believe what she saw in the mirror. That was her? She even pinched herself. Surely Georgiana must have bewitched her. Georgiana was so pleased with herself she started laughing. Laughter is such a contagious thing; Anne couldn't help but join it. Such a small change, with the severe bun her mother favored gone, Anne's face was framed my soft curls and Georgie had tucked some scarlet buds in to her hair. Her eyes looked soft and golden-brown. Why if she didn't know better, she might say, she looked almost pretty.
Passing by, Lady Matlock heard laughter. Having no daughters of her own, she enjoyed the company of her nieces and couldn't resist partaking in their fun. Seeing Georgiana in all her finery, she knew they were playing dress up. She pretended to be much putout by not being invited. And then she and the girls burst into peals of laughter. Lady Matlock did notice that despite wearing the same drab colored dress as always, Anne looked surprisingly well. It was the hair, she thought, all the girl needed now were some new dresses. "My dear girls I feel as though I have been quite negligent. Here you have been here for a month, and we have yet to make a shopping excursion. I was planning on having some new dresses made, and I can of nothing I would enjoy more than having you accompany me and have new dresses of your own stitched." And so it was decided, and Lady Matlock skillfully, managed to get Anne a new wardrobe.
Chapter 3
Lord Matlock was surprised by the change a new hairstyle and wardrobe wrought on Anne. Lady Matlock just smiled at him indulgently. "You know, it is that she is free to do whatever she wants here that has lead to the change. She can eat what she wants. She does not have bleedings, and she is able to run out of doors." And in truth, Anne did looks remarkably well. However, she did not seem to notice. When her aunt and uncle complimented her appearance, she smiled at them like one might smile at a child. She did not believe then. Nor did she believe Georgiana either. She hardly noticed the admiring glances she received when they went into to town or called on other families.
However, one afternoon while getting ready to pay a visit on a neighboring family with Georgie and her aunt. Anne was struck by her appearance. Her eyes did not look too big for her face, and they seemed more golden than she remembered. And somehow her brown hair did not seem quite so mousy. Anne had memorized her face and figure long ago and rarely paid heed to what the mirror told her. She did not need to be reminded of her dowdiness. For she was aware of how frightfully ill she could look. But today the mirror was telling her that she was pretty. It was most startling. She had color in her cheeks, even her figure seemed to have filled out, and her yellow dress was dreamy. Her thoughts quickly drifted to Richard. She wondered what he would think!
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Georgiana was in high spirits. She had just had a letter from Darcy saying that he and Elizabeth would come fetch her from Matlock, two days hence. As much as Georgiana had enjoyed her stay, she longed for her brother and her new sister. Anne sympathized with Georgiana, but realized she would never feel the same way. As beautiful as Rosings was, it was as much a home to her as it was a prison. Here at Matlock she had had the opportunity to feel the sun, smell the grass, hear the music of the birds, and make her own (Georgiana was teaching her). Though Anne's fingers were not quite quick enough for the pianoforte, it was discovered that she had an excellent voice. So she and Georgiana spent hours together playing duets together. This of course happened all under Lord and Lady Matlock's eyes. They knew Georgiana was a sensible girl and that she had a brother who loved her beyond all. But Anne, what did she have to go home to. She had blossomed at Matlock away from Lady Catherine's - her mother's -- influence. She was no longer so pale and skinny. While she would probably not be considered handsome, she was very sweet. Her new dresses suited her wonderfully well, and Lady Matlock thought a Season would be just the thing Anne needed. And Lord Matlock did not disagree. The only problem was convincing Lady Catherine.
Lord Matlock did wonder what Lady Catherine was doing in London. It wasn't like her to leave Anne for so long. But Lord Matlock did not like to think of Catherine, his sister invariable gave him indigestion. So it was best to assume that she was enjoying herself and gossiping with some old querulous cats.
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Since staying at Matlock, Anne had grown accustomed to rising early. She had found that Richard also rose early and they could then breakfast together. They did not talk much over breakfast, but it was a very companionable silence. Not at all like the silences at Rosings. However on this morning when Anne came down for breakfast, she was greeted by none other than the new Mrs. Darcy. It was of course slightly awkward for both of them, but Mrs. Darcy, though she was a country girl, was not lacking manners and neither was our Anne. And by the time Darcy found his way to the breakfast table, Elizabeth and Anne were both in the middle of friendly conversation. Elizabeth was convinced that Anne had never harbored any romantic feelings toward Darcy. She also thought Anne looked remarkably improved though it wouldn't do so to say. Anne on the other hand, was pleased to make the acquaintance of her new cousin. And heartened to find they both enjoyed the same books and held so many similar views.
Darcy had never seen Anne talk quite so much, and noticed the pains Elizabeth was taking to draw Anne out. He realized how much more he loved his wife with every passing day. He also noticed that Anne looked quite young and fresh, of course she was no where near as beautiful as his wife, but he found that her to be quite attractive none the less. He thought to mention it to Anne, but he was afraid of causing her pain - as though he had never thought of her as attractive.
When Georgiana came to breakfast, she could barely contain her surprise and joy. She just had to tell her brother and sister everything that had happened in the month they were gone. No one could get a word in edge wise, for Georgiana was not so reticent in the presence of her brother. She talked about rides in the park, a new wardrobe (Darcy, "Why I did think you and Anne looked rather fine this morning." To which Elizabeth quickly assented and both girls smiled shyly.), Anne's music, duets (Elizabeth professed a great desire to hear them, and the girls quickly agreed to play after luncheon.), and her reading (Naturally, Darcy offered his suggestions and criticisms to his sister and cousin.). And together the cousins and siblings passed the morning together comfortably. If Darcy and Elizabeth had anticipated any frostiness of Anne, they did not receive any. And Anne was flattered by the kindness of her new cousin; she felt as though she had made a new friend. There was something different about Darcy she thought happily; she had never seen him so eager to please, so convivial. Perhaps they were friends too.
Chapter 4
Richard waxed reflective on his ride home. He had been happy to get away for it. As much as he loved Georgiana and felt for Anne, sometimes a man just needed some time to himself. Now that Darcy was coming back, he was sure Georgiana would perk up. Miss. Elizabeth Bennet, the new Mrs. Darcy was just the thing his two cousins' needed. But Anne on the other hand he wondered what could be done for her. He knew she was still at Matlock; apparently Lady Catherine was still enjoying herself in London. He wondered if it possible for a woman such as Lady Catherine to enjoy herself? This thought sent him chuckling. Anne was a good sort though he thought. She was kind and sensible. She spoke when necessary and did not talk a man's ear off. She was just the type of wife an army man needed. If only, he thought, if only she could get away from her bear of a mama. And then again he couldn't help laugh... picturing Lady Catherine as a bear. It was too much, but she did indeed look like one when she wore her fur coat. Oh poor Annie. He must do something for her he told himself.
Walking towards the drawing room, Richard heard the pianoforte and singing. He prayed his mother was not holding some daytime musicale, for after a long ride he was in no mood to smile and simper at young debutantes. He was honest with himself; he enjoyed a pretty face and could be quite a flirt (though never a rake), but there is a time and a place for everything. And now was not the time and the drawing room was by no means the place.
Richard walked into the room so quietly no one heard him. Darcy was of course so absorbed in staring at his wife; only a bucket of ice water could rouse him. Georgiana was at the pianoforte. By god, that girl had talent. But who was that singing and where was Anne. Richard could have shook himself when he realized that the girl singing, that rather sweet and wistful looking girl in the rose colored dress with the big golden-brown eyes and shining hair was his Anne. So taken a back was he, that he didn't realize he had referred to her as 'his Anne'.
When the song was over, it was Richard who cheered "Bravo. Encore, encore!" Georgiana smiled prettily up at him. Elizabeth looked up happy to see her old friend once again. After greeting Darcy with a slap on the shoulder, Richard was welcomed by his parents. Still his eyes kept turning to Anne. But her expression was unreadable. She looked happy, nervous, and scared all at the same time. Though why she should be scared of him, he could not fathom. He walked towards the instrument, and Georgiana greeted him with am impulsive hug. Walking over to Anne, Richard with affected gallantry brought her hand to her lips and kissed it, saying, "My Anne, how lovely you look." Before he knew what happened though, Anne had grabbed her hand away and dashed off, leaving Richard looked dumbstruck.
"Richard," his mother almost yelled at him, "how could you? You know she is not one of you silly debutantes." Richard however was still puzzled, "I don't understand. Why did she run off like that? I was only complimenting her." Lord Matlock annoyed with his son's momentary loss of a brain blustered, "You fool she thought you were mocking her. She is not some simpering young thing expecting the gallantry of young men, and you well know how she has had it." Richard looked down thinking to himself. Yes, he had gotten carried away. He had to speak with Anne. It wouldn't do well for her to think ill of him.
Anne lay across her bed weeping piteously to herself, berating herself for running off. No doubt Richard and his family thought she was unstable and not quite right in the head. But then who would be with Lady Catherine for a mother. And her weeping began a new. It was only that when she saw him, and when she saw him look at her, like a woman, not as his cousin Anne, she had felt something. It was something she had never felt before. It was love. It all made sense now, the irrationally jealousy that she had tried to hide, the butterflies in her stomach, the desire for his good opinion. And he had come and kissed her hand like she was some silly young thing. He had laughed at her, for she was nothing like the debutantes he was used too. But he had called her 'my Anne' had he not. Still, she couldn't stop the tears.
She was so lost in her misery, that she didn't even notice the knocking on her door. But she did feel strong arms on her shoulder, calming her, and a voice saying, "Shhh, Annie, don't cry." When she looked up, she saw Richard. Seeing the tears in her big golden-brown eyes, Richard could have kicked himself for his thoughtlessness. He didn't even know how to make it up. He had never actually made a girl cry before.
"You know Annie, I missed you awfully the past couple weeks, but I see you haven't missed me. But then between riding and taking music lessons, I expect you hardly had any time to. Darcy says that you have become quite the reader. Though I expect you always were." And when her tears started subsiding, he added slyly, "And it seems that you have been shopping as well." That had the desired effect, as she raised a hand to hit him. He grabbed it, when she looked up at him. She had a small smile on her face. "You know Anne, you are quite a pretty thing. And when you have your season, and you must have it, I will have to fight off your admirers with a stick in order to get a dance with you." He watched the color rise in her face. And couldn't resist teasing her a bit more (though it wasn't quite teasing, for it really was the truth he thought. She really is a pretty thing!) "And you cannot run away each time a gentleman kisses you hand, for then I will be forced to challenge them all to a duel." Anne couldn't help herself. If Georgiana could hug him, then why could she not? And finding no good reason not to, she did.
Darcy and Elizabeth stayed a Matlock for a few days. And Anne had the opportunity to better acquaint herself with Elizabeth. At Rosings there had been her mother's presence constantly hovering about her. It had always been clear that she did not approve of the second Miss. Bennet. But Anne could not find anything to dislike and was pleased to notice that Richard paid her far more attention than he did either Georgie or Elizabeth. Being away from home for so long, Darcy longed to be back at Pemberley and introduce everyone to their new Mistress. Georgie and Anne departed with the promises of exchanging frequent letters. Elizabeth and Darcy extended an invitation to visit. They all knew that Lady Catherine would not allow Anne a mile within Pemberley. Still Anne was gratified to know that her cousins valued her company so.
With Darcy, Elizabeth, and Georgiana back at Pemberley, Richard and Anne were constantly together. The breakfasted together and usually went either walking or riding together. Afternoons were spent quietly, Anne usually read and Richard found that he had nothing better to do than join her. When she practiced her music, and Richard encouraged her too, he would often sit near her and turn the pages. And so things continued quite comfortably, until Lady Catherine wrote again, announcing that she would be coming to Matlock within the week bringing with her a guest by the name of Lord Crowley.
Richard could think of no Lord Crowley in his acquaintance, however Lord Matlock could. Discussing it over dinner, Lord Matlock told them Crowley was an elderly gentleman about ten years his senior. He owned an estate a day away from Kent. He was a very wealthy man, but very fastidious and miserly. Anne was quiet, but after a few minutes looked up smiling at Richard and said as if she had come up with a wonderfully absurd joke, "Could it be that my mother is getting married?" Anne and Richard were sputtering, and though Lord and Lady Matlock felt they should rebuke them, they could not. The notion of Catherine getting married was frightfully ridiculous, though what else could she mean by inviting this Lord Crowley to Matlock.
Chapter 5
Anne was already at breakfast when Richard arrived. She was in rather low spirits he noticed, and he felt that he must cheer her up. The arrival of her mother's letter certainly had put a storm cloud over Matlock, but he would see Anne had as much fun as possible before she had to leave for Rosings. And the spring festival would be just the thing. "Anne if you do not have any plans for the afternoon, I was hoping you might join me." She looked expectantly up to him, as he continued, "there is to be a carnival today, and I thought it might be just the thing for fun. And I have always wanted to have my fortune read." By this time, Anne knew she would follow Richard anywhere. There was no question of not going.
Lord Matlock on the other hand was not pleased at all with Richard's latest plan. "A village carnival is the last place for a girl like Anne. Imagine Lady Catherine's reaction. You must realize there will be people of a sort there to whom she must not be exposed." "Father," Richard replied seriously, "you must not think me incapable of acting in Anne's self interest. She is my cousin as such her honor is my honor. You can trust me to protect her." Lord Matlock thought it wise to end the conversation there. Lady Matlock had told him she suspected Anne had formed a tendre for Richard. But she remained uncertain of Richard's feeling. This surprised Lord Matlock; surely she should be able to ascertain her son's feelings. The problem she claimed what that Richard was in general so attentive and deferential to young ladies it was hard to know his true feelings. But she did not think it unlikely he had formed an attachment.
So despite his father's concerns Anne and Richard set out for the carnival in high spirits. Richard found himself happier than he had been in sometime, but as he had yet to realize he was in love with his Anne, he was unsure of why he was so very happy. Anne on the other hand, knew of her love and was determined to keep it hidden. The carnival was everything Anne thought it would be. Richard bought her hair ribbons. She tried all sorts of pies and sweet breads. Richard was invited to participate in some sporting contest, however Anne who found she was exhausted demurred from going and sat in the shade waiting for him. By the time Richard had found her, the music had started. Standing before her he made an exaggerated bow and asked," My lady, may I have this dance." Anne laughed and smiled sadly,"Though I would love to noble sir, I am afraid I do not know how." Ever the knight in shining armor, "That is no matter. Come now, a girl like you must have been born to dance." So it was a reluctant Anne who had her first dance. And what can be said, though she did step on his feet, Richard did not notice. However when he danced with other girls, he always complained about those with lazy feet. And Anne was beyond happy, each time she thought she had tasted true happiness she had found there was more. She asked herself how many girls get to dance their first dance with their one true love.
"Ah, Anne," Richard spoke some time later, "we still have not had your fortune told, come." And Anne with stars in her eyes could not say no. She had everything she wanted. She feared her fortune could only be bad. For what more could there be to life than this day. Anne had never seen a gypsy before and was rather struck by the fortuneteller's strange jewelry and rather loud manner of dress. Still she noticed there was something beautiful about the gypsy woman that was normally not seen in fashionable drawing rooms. Anne waited patiently for the gypsy's reading. She was afraid. Afraid of hearing about her life when Lady Catherine returned, but she could feel Richard's presence behind her. It was comforting. Though he might not love her, he certainly cared for her. She was certain it was more than pity. He must care for her she thought emphatically. He must! She willed herself to believe it.
Suddenly the gypsy began to speak in a deep, throaty voice that was strangely melodic. Anne was transfixed. "I see two futures for you. One of comfort and luxury but ultimately of misery. One of happiness and occasional hardship. But to find this happiness you must risk your heart." She paused and Anne's heart skipped a beat. She wanted to ask how she would find happiness, but before she could ask, the gypsy continues. "There is a man you love. Yes. He is fuzzy, but I see him. You must decide if you can trust him." The gypsy's face closed. Anne stood up shaking a little. Walking her away from the gypsy, Richard turned to her and asked searchingly, "So Annie, who is this man of yours. Who is this young buck who wishes to steal you away from me." And when Anne looked up at Richard the answer was written so plainly on her face, he couldn't not know the answer. He didn't know what to feel, and drew her to him, in an embrace that was both reassuring and loving.
"Sir, sir. Colonel Fitzwilliam," Anne and Richard stepped back from each other, as Richard's valet approached, " you must hurry sir. Lady deBourgh has arrived and insists upon seeing her daughter at once. We told her you had gone for a ride in the park, but she does not seem to believe it." Richard was alarmed and when he looked at Anne, he saw that she had gone pale and looked almost like she was going to faint. All he could think to say was, "Buck-up Annie, we will brave the old bear together." She smiled back weakly at him, but it was enough. He held her hand the entire way home, willing some of his strength to her. And by the time they had entered the drawing room Anne's color had returned.
"Why Anne, girl don't you look well," Lady Catherine said sounding rather put out. "It is about time you have returned. Richard, I do not appreciate you taking Anne gallivanting across the country like this. With her constitution, the utmost case must be taken." She paused, and turned to look at the corpulent, old, man sitting next to her. "Well, now that everyone is here, I have an announcement to make," pausing for effect, she continued, "let me introduce you to Lord Thomas Crowley, Anne's fiancé." Lady Catherine looked smugly happy, Lord Crowley looked as though he wanted to eat Anne, Lord Matlock looked as though he wanted to strangle someone and couldn't decide who, Lady Matlock looked ready to cry, Richard was ready to challenge Lord Crowley to a duel and tried to stepped in front of Anne to protect her from Lord Crowley's appraising eye, and Anne - Anne felt as though her life had shattered. It had been too good too be true. But this was too much, to go from dancing in the arms of the man you love, to be sold in marriage to a man old enough to be your father... before she fainted all she whispered so softly only one person heard was, "Richard".
Chapter 6
Retiring to their rooms Lord and Lady Matlock were at a loss. Lord Matlock perhaps felt Catherine's behavior the most. After all she was his sister, and they had the same blood flowing through their veins. For her to do such a thing to her only child was unbelievable. He couldn't even begin to speak about it. Lady Matlock however was very fluent in her views. "What can we do? That man is old enough to be Anne's father. And she has been so happy here. I fear for her once she returns to Rosings. How is she to escape this marriage?" Lord Matlock just nodded unhappily. Speaking more to herself than to her husband, Lady Matlock continued, "I wonder how Richard feels about this. I feel that he and Anne would be quite the thing. She is rather quiet, not unlike Darcy in some ways. And so very steady and reliable. And Richard, he is boisterous and congenial though at times a bit impulsive and intemperate. But together, they would bring out the best in each other and soften each other's flaws. If only I could be certain that he loved her."
Lord Crowley had been surprised when he first saw Anne deBourgh. He had heard she was a sickly thing, why Lady Catherine always referred to her as delicate. But the Anne he had seen was young and bright and he thought... shiny. True she seemed to be far too comfortable in her cousin's company. But he would soon cure her of that. And marrying her would not be a bad deal at all. Her dowry was considerable and she was her mother's sole heir. And he would give her children enough to keep her busy. He smiled wickedly, "now that is something I can enjoy".
Lady Catherine slept easily. She had arranged her daughter's marriage and protected her own future. True Lord Crowley was an old bugger, but Anne would manage. Plus she needed Crowley's money to prop up Rosings. There were debts that needed to be discharged immediately. The gaming tables of London were an awful thing. "Darcy," she snarled. If he had married Anne, she never would have been distressed enough to play cards. But she had done her duty to her daughter; she would be safely married.
Richard lay awake in his bed. When he had carried Anne up to her room, she had been so light. He had been struck by her youth. He tired to piece all his different Anne's together. Anne the invalid at Rosings, Anne who sang, Anne who read, Anne who looked at him with such love in her eyes, and the Anne who had begged him to help her as she fainted. He had to help her. He couldn't leave her to this fate. She deserved something more. She deserved a real love. And he would find that for her.
Anne awoke in her room alone and scared. "What am I to do," she whispered to herself. "Perhaps I can run away to Pemberley, surely Darcy will take me in. He would understand." She got up and started packing a bag. There was no other recourse. She thought miserably, I would rather not have a mother at all than have a mother like mine. She is a monster. I wonder if she even loved me at all. Anne wanted to cry, but she needed to be strong. She would not give into the tears into the weakness. She would not play the part of the invalid. She heard a soft tapping on the door and went to open it, wondering who it could be so late at night. "Richard," she gasped.
He took in the sight of her. She looked like such funny young thing with her hair undone and wild around her shoulders and her traveling gown on, rushing around holding her bag, and muttering to herself. She was evidently in haste. "Anne," he scrutinized her, "where are you going?" She looked at him carefully and said precisely, "I am running off. I am going to go to Pemberley. Darcy will surely take me in. I must rely upon him. He could not say no could he." As she had been talking her voice had gone from confident to questioning, and Richard had noticed. And spoke forcefully enough to restore her confidence. "Of course, he will offer you his protection. He is your cousin is he not? And I shall take you there. As soon as you gather your things, we will be off. But let me leave a note for the Lord and Lady." "No," Anne almost screamed. "I trusted you, how can you tell them!" Confused, Richard replied, "They are my parents. They love you like a daughter, you would not have them worry would you?" She made an "oh" shape with her mouth, but nothing came out. Lifting her chin up Richard chuckled softly, "You doubt me Annie. Why the fortune teller told you to trust the man you love." Anne blushed hotly in humiliation and happiness. Richard kissed her forehead and left her to finish packing.
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"You have ridden before haven't you Anne. We should make better time on horse back." Anne looked at him sadly. She so wanted to please him, but she had never ridden. And part of her wondered that he didn't know that. She smiled at him hesitantly and replied, "Of course." And so they set off. However, after just a few hours Anne was haggard, and Richard would have been blind not to notice her drooping shoulders. They stopped at a small inn and got a room, giving Anne the chance to rest for a few hours before they set off again.
Richard knew he should have gotten two rooms for propriety's sake. But there was only one available room. He had to register them as man and wife, though he did have the intelligence to register them under false names. Anne was just so tired. He didn't think he could make her ride any further with out rest and sustenance. Besides, he was her cousin. It was not really that scandalous. Richard decided to ignore the fact that he was considered to be something of a ladies man and a born flirt.
Anne was no horsewoman though she was doggedly determined. Richard cursed himself for not realizing she had never ridden before. The time that they would have saved taking the horses was lost due to all the stops they needed to take in order for Anne to rest. She looked at him so piteously over their breakfast, pleading him to forgive her. Little did she know there was nothing for him to forgive.
Lord Matlock was awakened far too early for his taste by a loud pounding on the door. At first he thought it was a hammering headache caused by too much scotch. But no, his man rushed in to inform him that two of his best horses were gone. And all that was left behind was a small note. Lord Matlock recognized the handwriting - Richard. What had the boy done? He immediately decided to speak to Lady Matlock. She was pleased to hear that Richard was aiding and abetting Anne in her escape. Smiling at his wife, Lord Matlock could see her dreams of a wedding and a new daughter. But he snapped her out of reverie; Lady Catherine would be sure to figure out what had happened. And if she caught up to Anne and Richard before they reached Pemberley. There could be trouble. "Richard," Lord Matlock declared " is a hot head when it comes to women."
Lady Catherine waited for Anne all morning. They needed to begin preparing her trousseau. Lord Crowley did not want a long engagement. But Anne did not come down. After her fainting spell, Lady Catherine thought it best not to interrupt Anne's rest. It would not do to have her fainting at her own wedding. She noted that Richard had not made an appearance yet either and neither her brother nor sister-in-law seemed concerned about either Anne or Richard. To be sure no one, Lady Catherine thought, would be concerned about Richard. He was after all a second son and only a Colonel, she had heard about his flirtations and was convinced he was a very dissolute young man. But Anne was another matter altogether. She was the heir to Rosings Park!
At luncheon, when Anne still hadn't come down to great her, Lady Catherine decided to pay her sickly daughter a visit. A strange noise rang through out Matlock when Lady Catherine entered Anne's rooms. It wasn't a yell or a scream, it was a much more gruesome sound. It even made the hardened Lord Crowley's spine tingle. Anne was gone. "Kidnapped," Lady Catherine declared, "well if they want my money, they can..." But before Lady Catherine could finish, Lady Matlock said sweetly, "But my dear Catherine, most of her new clothes are gone as well. I wonder that she has run off." If looks could kill, Lady Matlock would not have lived to say another word. Ah, but it was worth it to see Lady Catherine's face - like she had sucked a sour lemon.
Chapter 7
It took them far longer to reach Pemberley than Richard had anticipated, primarily because of all the stops they had had to make. It was nightfall when they reached the main house. And both Richard and Anne were exhausted, physically and emotionally. The dust and mud covered Anne and Richard were quite a sight, and though part of Darcy wanted to laugh; he knew it had to be something serious for his cousins to travel so far on horseback through the night.
While Elizabeth and Georgiana helped Anne wash up, Richard and Darcy went to his study and over brandy discussed what they should do. "Darc, I couldn't leave her to run off by herself. Imagine her traveling the country alone." Darcy decided to let Richard unburden himself. "And that man, old enough to be her grandfather. It is despicable. If Lady Catherine will not protect her, we must step in." Taking a breath, Richard continued, "You should have seen the way he looked at Anne. I was ready to challenge him to a duel. Such brazen..." and here Richard's voice trailed off. Darcy couldn't hear anything though Richard was clearly murmuring something. Darcy decided it was time for him to do something. "You know of course, that Anne is welcome here for as long as she would like to stay. But I must ask you what your intentions are ..." " My intentions, my intentions to whom?" Richard sounded as though he had just woken up to a jarring noise. "Why to Anne of course. You do realize the scandal that your flight will have caused. Even if we were to hush it up. You must have been spotted at enough inns. And you did take a room did you not. You see what I am saying..." The sudden realization dawned on Richard. And to think he had been thinking of defending Anne's honor by challenging Lord Crowley to a duel. He did not know if he wanted to laugh, cry, or throw something. He suspected he wanted to do all three at once.
Meanwhile, the women were with Anne. Naturally, they were curious as to the cause of the wild ride that brought Anne and Richard to their doorstep. But Anne looked so tired, so fragile. Like a china doll really, they did not want to upset her by pushing it out of her. They had to bite their tongues though not to ask. After all, it would all come out in good time.
Anne was starving. And Elizabeth certain Richard could probably also do with a late supper as well. So the Darcy's, Georgiana, Anne, and Richard sat down to a midnight snack. Anne and Richard were too tired to notice that their every action was being observed by Darcy and Elizabeth. They noticed how Anne colored prettily when she saw Richard. How Richard positioned himself next to Anne and gave her his arm. They could not help but notice the looks that flew between them. Elizabeth and Darcy smiled at each other. Love. It seemed that Anne knew what it was to love, but they were uncertain if Richard was entirely sensible of it.
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It did not take Lady Catherine long to figure out what had happened. Both Anne and Richard were gone and so were two horses. She couldn't imagine where they would have run off. Surely Anne would not have gone to Pemberley. Not after the way Darcy had tossed her for a country miss. No Lady Catherine concluded, they must have gone to London. Anne would try and seek shelter there with Richard's brother, Andrew. Sighing to herself, if it had not been for the debts she would have pushed for a wedding between Andrew and Anne. But now nothing could be done. And Anne careless as ever had aligned herself with a nobody.
Lord and Lady Matlock were pleased for many reasons when they heard Lady Catherine was leaving for London. They could barely contain their glee. They only wished they could inform Andrew of her descent upon the ton. Still, they were sure Andrew would be able to manage Aunt Catherine. Though they loved their eldest son immensely, he had an ego the size of Mt. Vesuvius. And though it was in check most of the time, Lady Catherine seemed to bring out the best in him
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Anne could not sleep. She felt torn between her duty to her mother, and her anger at her mother for placing her in such a position. And then there was her desire to be with Richard. She would be happy if she could just be near him. And he had done so much for her already. She worried for him and worried over his feelings. She prayed that he not pity her. For Richard's pity was something she thought she could not bear. Nightmares plagued Anne all night long.
Seeing Anne the next morning, it was evident she had not had a moment's rest. Her eyes were tired and limp, her hair dull, her movements slow and lethargic. She was sure that Richard had spoken to Darcy already and now it was her turn to explain the situation, before her mother showed up. And Anne did not doubt that she would.
Over breakfast Anne began her story. She periodically looked at Richard for comfort. She could feel Georgiana's and Elizabeth's eyes looking at her with sympathy and though she could not bring herself to look at Darcy, she knew he was angry. She could feel it. And it comforted her to know he believed in her cause. "So you see," Anne ended her narrative, "I had no other choice but to run away. It was not only that he was so old. I did not love him. I could not love him, I am sure." "Why Anne," Georgiana asked innocently, for she truly was curious, "who is it that you love. I am certain there must be someone for you to speak so." Anne flushed and looked down. Richard averted his eyes. And Darcy just muttered, "hush". The meal finished in an awkward silence. Richard knew he must propose to Anne. And he was certain he loved her - in a way. Anne was humiliated beyond belief. Now everyone knew of her love for Richard. And Georgiana wished the earth would open up and swallow her. For evidently, she had unwittingly angered her brother and embarrassed both Anne and Richard who she loved dearly. But then as she thought more, she couldn't help but wonder if it was Richard that Anne loved. And would that not be so perfectly romantic, her girlish heart thrilled, to be rescued by your one true love. And then Georgiana did not feel so sad for herself or Anne.
Chapter 8
Darcy had received a note from Lord and Lady Matlock indicating that Lady Catherine was fuming over Anne's abrupt departure and had decided to pay Andrew a visit in London. But they warned both Richard and Darcy to be prepared, because Andrew would not be able to hold Lady Catherine for long. And she would eventually come to Pemberley.
Darcy and Richard had a good laugh over the letter. Lady Catherine was so blind-sided. She hadn't realized that Darcy was the obvious person for Anne to turn too. Georgiana and Anne were close. And though Darcy and Anne had never been particularly close, they saw each other often. And Richard and Darcy were like brothers. Andrew on the other hand was a virtual stranger to Anne. She saw him perhaps yearly at best and had always thought of him as a sort of pompous wastrel.
The pompous wastrel was not pleased at all when Lady Catherine strode into his study entirely unannounced. Andrew prided himself on being a true gentleman, and such lack of formality galled him. So he was already in an undeniably foul mood when Lady Catherine shrilled, "Where is she? I must see Anne at once." "What the deuce are you talking about? Anne, here? What on earth..." "You will send Richard and Anne to me at once." Andrew was already finding Lady Catherine's conversation to be tiresome. He wanted her to leave, at once. "Anne has run off with your brother. And she must come home at once. She is to marry Lord Crowley within the week!" Until then, Andrew had felt very little sympathy for either his brother or Anne. They had been the ones who sent the old bag to his door. But the mention of Lord Crowley shook him a bit. He remembered an old man with yellowing teeth and a rather vulgar laugh. "Why aunt you must be joshing. Anne and Lord Crowley, why he could be her grandfather. And is he not a horribly fat old man," Andrew said laughingly. Still he let Lady Catherine conduct a search of his entire house. He had nothing to hide. And when she realized this, she left in such a foul mood, that Andrew almost felt a little depressed himself.
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When Richard asked Anne to take a walk with him, she was a little surprised. It seemed as though he wanted to have a private conversation with her. But she wasn't sure whatever for. After taking a turn, Richard finally decided to speak. "Anne, I have not been careful. I fear that I have impugned your honor." Anne looked at him so confused that he felt he had to explain. He noticed her shawl was slipping of her shoulder, and moved it back up in a proprietary gesture as he spoke. "We should not have stayed in the same room at the inn. It will eventually become known. And though nothing happened. It was not proper and I fear it could reflect badly upon you." He smiled shakily at her before continuing. "Therefore, if you think that perhaps you could love me, would you do me the honor of being my wife?" He saw a stricken look on her face, and grabbed her hand before she could run off. "I know that this is not as romantic a proposal as a girl would wish for. And Annie you must believe me when I say that I love you. I am perhaps not the easiest man to deal with. But I think we could get on well together. I do not want to sell out, though if you believe it is necessary, I will... take your time to think about this." Anne looked up at him sadly. "I would not make you sell out. I think it would be quite an adventure to be Colonel's wife. It is only that I fear you do not love me, as I love you. And I could not live with the idea of forcing you to stay with me, when there is perhaps another girl for you." And with that she walked off.
"Anne," he called out to her departing figure. But she didn't seem to hear him. Richard raced to catch her and spun her around, so she was a breathless. She looked up at him as though she wanted to say something, but before she could, she was interrupted. "I think," he said, forcing her to look into his eyes, "that there is no one I would want to marry besides you Anne. Please don't say no."
She didn't say yes. But then she didn't say no. She just looked at him. And it must have been the moonlight (later Anne would say, "what moonlight, the sun was shining". And Richard ever the charming one would say, "the light in your eyes darling. There was moonlight in your eyes. Such a bewitching thing."), that made him kiss her. And then he felt her kiss him back, and he knew that her answer was yes. She would be his. And they would be happy.
Richard knew he should pull away, for the repercussions for her would be severe if they were caught. And Darcy, Richard thought, would skin him alive. But he could not leave; she was so frustratingly wonderful. Anne knew her behavior put her beyond pale, but feeling Richard's arms around her was everything she had dreamed off. She could feel her heart twisting, and couldn't help pulling him closer. When they separated breathless, he smiled rakishly at her, "So about me not loving you..." and he added for further effect. "You have to marry me now, for I know not what I would do if any other man kissed you in such a manner." This time, it was Anne who silenced her fiancé with a kiss.
Chapter 9
"Anne you will come with me at once," a sadly familiar voice rang out. Anne did not know what to say. Every time she found happiness it seemed to be snatched away. Still Richard had managed last time and he would again, she was sure of it. He loved her, and he had said it in such a way, that she was sure it was more than a cousinly sort of love. He had said it in a way that made her heart jump and skip a beat. Leaning against Richard's chest, she heard him say, jovially. "Why aunt, it is so good to see you. Anne and I wanted to ask for your blessing." "WHAT," screeched Lady Catherine. "You got married. How is that possible? You could not have had enough time to reach Gretna Green." Lord Crowley stepped out of the shadows. "You, you, young pup. I must insist that you unhand Anne deBourgh at once she is my fiancé. We will be married. In fact, I have obtained a special license. And I think we shall have the ceremony tomorrow. If that suits you my dear Miss. DeBourgh," he sneered. He had noticed her mussed hair and close proximity to her cousin. It seemed, Lord Crowley thought to himself, this Colonel Fitzwilliam would be more trouble than he had anticipated.
"Oh dear," Anne said plaintitively, "I am afraid that is impossible. I cannot marry you." "And why ever not," Lady Catherine said peevishly. "Well you see Richard and I were married earlier today. It is a beautiful ring is it not?" Anne smiled happily up at Richard forgetting her mother and her elderly fiancé. Richard smiled rakishly back at his 'wife'. He never thought Annie had it in her to lie like that. How delightfully amusing. But then he had never before thought to make Anne his wife. How he could have been so blind was beyond him. The ring, he reflected, was rather beautiful though, a loan from the Darcy collection, an opal surrounded by a circlet on emeralds. "You cannot have married Richard," said aunt Catherine bringing Richard and Anne back to reality. She then continued in what she thought was a more kindly voice, "why he is nothing Anne. He is only a second son. I have arranged an excellent match for you. You shall be a lady. You shall never worry yourself over money." But Anne did not seem to be cognizant of her mother, and instead turned to Richard saying, "I feel a bit of a chill, can we not return to the house."
The four of them walked back to the house together. Anne clung to Richard, afraid that if she left him she would find herself whisked away and wake up being Lady Crowley. How positively hideous, she shivered. Richard rubbed her shoulder; it was such a comforting gesture. Entering the house, Lady Catherine shrilled, "Darcy where are my rooms". It was Elizabeth who first heard Lady Catherine's call and arrived downstairs. "Why Lady Catherine we did not expect..." "Miss. Bennet, it is not you I wish to speak to. Darcy!" Darcy had come up behind them, and there was an angry glint in his eye. His voice was icy when it came out. "Lady Catherine what an unexpected pleasure. I am sure you remember Mrs. Darcy, the former Miss. Bennet. I would expect you to treat her with the respect she deserves." It was almost as though Lady Catherine could not help herself. "And what respect can anyone show for a little country brat like Miss. Bennet when you could have had my Anne." "Can you not see how ill suited Anne and I are. Besides she has always loved Richard. And he loves her. You would have to be blind not to see it. Regardless, as we are all retiring, I suggest you find lodging elsewhere. If you cannot suffer to treat my wife with dignity, then I fear we can not welcome you into our home." Darcy stood next to his wife, his arm around her as though he meant to protect her from Lady Catherine's slurs. But there were none. She simply went huffing out of the house.
"Well Darc," Richard said after a few moments, "congratulate us if you dare. Anne and I are engaged." After the hugs and handshakes were exchanged, Richard continued slowly, "Lady Catherine thinks that we are married. I think Anne and I shall leave for Gretna Green tonight. It is the only way I see." Darcy asked wearily, "What's next?" His question sounded more like a statement.
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Lord Matlock was deep in thought. He still couldn't fathom his sister's behavior. She had always been rather cold. It had surprised everyone when she married Lewis deBourgh who was so much her senior. Especially when she seemed to hold him in such disdain. But as a child, Anne had been so fond of her father. Lord Matlock had never understood the match his sister made. But he didn't pity her entirely. Though not particularly attractive, deBourgh had seemed honorable and devoted to both his wife and daughter. So what could have possessed her to do such a thing? Could it be money? But Catherine had Rosings Park. How could she be short? What had she been doing in London? She had been there for far too long.
Lady Matlock too wondered at Lady Catherine. This is a new low of her. And though she had always disliked Catherine, she had never thought that she would sell Anne. And she was sure that that was w hat she was doing. But was there anyway to prove it. Andrew was their only real connection to London, so the Matlocks' wrote to him hoping he could discover what it was that had happened. What had induced Lady Catherine to make this engagement?
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Remembering their last cross-country trip. Richard decided that they would not ride, but instead take a carriage. It wouldn't do to have his bride faint from exhaustion at the altar. Anne was just happy to be sitting next to Richard. Once they were married, she was convinced her mother would have no further power over her. She fell asleep with a smile on her face and Richard's arm around her.
She did not have a wedding dress or her family, and felt that she should be sad though she was not. So Anne and Richard joined hands, the former wearing a light green dress Richard had told her looked quite fetching and scarlet colored shawl. She clutched a bouquet of red, red roses. The groom wore ivory colored breeches, a blue coat, and a smile that made many a woman look at Anne in envy. Each thought the other simply wonderful. And in their love, they were wonderfully beautiful. Still Richard told Anne, "We will get married again in a church, with our family, and you in a wedding dress with flowers in your hair - though I cannot imagine you looking any prettier. And I will be able to show off my beautiful bride," pausing for a moment, he laughingly added, "It is a good thing you fell in love with me, for I am not as young as I once was and I am not sure I would have been able to fight off all your admirers." Anne was not insensible to the compliment he paid her, but she was speechless. In time she would come to accept her husband's compliments with more than a smile. But for now her smile was an eloquent enough response for Richard.
They had luncheon in silence. Anne knew herself to be married, but she could not believe that it had happened. She was still processing the events of a most strange week. And Richard sensing her pensive mood wisely chose to let her be. However towards the end of the meal he asked her, "Where to next?" Anne looked up to him as though there was no doubt as to where they could go next, "why Matlock, of course. I fear we shall never be welcome at Rosings and I think we ought to tell your parents of our marriage." And she fell silent and murmured, "I hope they will not be too disappointed." Richard barely caught her words, and lifted her chin up to look at him and smiled into her eyes saying, "I don't think they could be happier. They love you as their own you know." "Yes," Anne sighed, "your parents have been awfully good to me. But I am not as gay and witty as the girls you normally take up with. I can not smile so sweetly, play as masterfully, or accept compliments so gracefully." Richard had never realized Anne had followed his affairs and was a little surprised at her words, "Why Anne you are the only girl for me. I have never been taken by any girl but you." When he kissed her, Anne was sure she could feel her heart breaking, but she was happy.
Chapter 10
Lord and Lady Matlock were stunned when they received Andrew's letter. Gambling debts. Why Lady Catherine never gamed. And debts such as these, why they were the work on months. No wonder she needed to sell Anne into marriage. Looking back on the situation with a disinterested eye, he could see what had drawn Lady Catherine and Lord Crowley together. Lady Catherine needed money plain and simple and that was something Lord Crowley could provide. Lord Crowley was not of such an age that he did not enjoy the company of women and as he did not yet have any legitimate heirs of his own. He must have hoped a young wife could provide him with an heir of his own. And Anne herself would be a wealthy woman, sole heir to a large estate and she had a large dowry. The dowry alone could pay her mothers gambling debts three times over. And though he probably did not know this when he struck the bargain with Lady Catherine, Anne had blossomed into a sweet wisp of a girl. It was an excellent deal for those two old fools. But what of Anne, he thought. Richard was a capable enough man, Lord Matlock was sure he could count on his son.
Lady Matlock had not said much after hearing the news contained in Andrew's letter. But a few hours later, she broke her silence and questioned her husband, "If Lady Catherine's debts are so severe why does she not sell off a piece of the estate? Why force Anne into marriage. For though I disapprove of Catherine's method of raising Anne, I did think deep down she had a sort of affection for the girl." "Perhaps," said Lord Matlock sadly, "she simply found it most expedient to marry Anne off then break up the estate. But it is worth looking into. I can try and pay a visit to her lawyers."
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Matlock was in an uproar. Richard and Anne had returned - married. Lady Matlock was beyond herself with delight. It was not that Lord Matlock disapproved of the match; he was just concerned about what would happen next. What would he do when Lady Catherine came, and come she would. Despite her flaws and they were considerable, he loved her. As a girl, she had helped him with his studies and comforted him when he fell. Pushing thoughts of Catherine to the side, he congratulated his son and hugged his new daughter-in-law.
Anne and Richard had not been placed in their normal rooms. This room Anne reflected was much larger and in a different wing of the house. It was light and full of windows and the walls and draperies were all tinted green. Lady Matlock had taken Anne out for the afternoon, and gathered that she and Richard had had very little time to themselves, and so it came to be that they were placed in the secluded green room
The women had retired well before the men, and Anne was unsure if and when Richard would join her. Still she thought it best to put on one of the new lace gowns that Lady Matlock had bought her. Anne changed and brushed her hair. And still no Richard. She twisted her hair up, and practiced all sorts of styles, and still no Richard. And it was very cold, or was it her nervousness. Anne was not sure, but decided to put on her silk robe. She tried several poses on the settee and imaged what she would say to her husband when she saw him. Finally she decided she would close her eyes just for a few minutes and await her husband. As soon as her head hit the pillow though, she fell asleep. For a girl not yet twenty, the past few days had been as stressful as they had been exciting and wonderful. And here at Matlock with her aunt, uncle, and Richard, she felt safe for the first time in a long time.
When Richard came to their chambers an hour later. He saw Anne asleep on the settee her hair pined up in soft curls. If only he had come up sooner he thought, but then decided that the girl needed her sleep more than anything else. So he tucked her into bed. There was nothing for him to do besides sleep himself. He had no desire to sleep on the settee for he knew he would feel wretched in the morning. But he did not want Anne to wake up scared in a new room with someone in her bed. Hours later, Richard was not sure if it was a dream or a vision, he heard someone who sounded strangely like Annie murmuring his name and nuzzling his neck. "Anne?' he asked wonderingly. As if in response to his question he felt her lips against his and knew she was real. She spoke accusingly, "You should have woken me up."
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Richard and Anne did not join his parents until luncheon, but then they had expected this. What they hadn't expected was that Lady Catherine and Lord Crowley would arrive so soon. But there they were, just in time for tea, and they could not be turned away. Lady Catherine quickly turned her vituperous tongue on her daughter, "So you have decided to leave my protection and love and throw yourself with this - this..." It was as though she couldn't being herself to say Richard's name and spit out, "cousin of yours." At this Lady Matlock's hands clenched, she hated it when Lady Catherine taunted Richard so. However she knew it was best to let Richard and Anne fight their own battles. Anne looked up at her mother with troubled eyes, "I only just came to know how much I love Richard, but I believe I have loved him, why almost forever." She smiled squeezing Richard's hand. Lady Catherine refusing to be outdone spat, "Love. What is love without money? Ha. Well you shall find out. Rosings is no longer your home." Quite pleased with herself Lady Catherine paced around the room. She had taken charge or so she had thought.
"We know of the debts Catherine," Lord Matlock spoke. "What I do not understand is why you did not come to me and ask me for assistance, or is a younger brother of no worth either?" The latter was said with some bitterness. "I do not see why you are having Anne marrying Lord Crowley. Why when we received your letter we had all assumed that you were to marry him." Lady Catherine looked thoughtful. Why indeed had she not thought to marry Lord Crowley, it would certainly solve all the problems Darcy and that ungrateful daughter of hers had caused. Lord Crowley heard Lord Matlock's proposal and almost chocked. Marry Lady Catherine, that hellcat? He would have no peace. She was not nearly as young and pretty like her daughter; no it would suit him at all. So he spoke a little red faced, "Why it was Anne that I had wanted to marry. But I see that there is no longer any chance of that. I have been used rather ill though. Still I take my leave, Forgive me if I do not offer my blessings." And with that Lord Crowley swiftly left Matlock with no cordial feelings. He had been ill used indeed. Here he was prepared to give that invalid chit of a girl his name and save her mother from disgrace and this is how she repaid him. Years later when Colonel Fitzwilliam became General Fitzwilliam, Lord Crowley nearly had a stroke. And when General Fitzwilliam became a member of the cabinet Lord Crowley would most certainly have had a stroke, but he was dead.
With Lord Crowley gone, four pairs of accusing eyes turned to Lady Catherine's. Lady Matlock's were rather inquisitive, Lord Matlock's resigned, Richard's furious, and Anne's sad and so like her dead father's. Lady Catherine shivered, she felt like a caged bird. "Well Catherine, what to do now?" Lord Matlock asked his sister. "You can not repudiate your daughter, can you? After all, she is the true owner of Rosings Park now, and has been for well over a year now." Lady Catherine had paled and looked sicklier than anyone could ever remember seeing her. But she did not say a word. Only stood still like marble. "I think perhaps it is best if you retire to the London townhouse for sometime. After all, that is yours, and you do have enough money to pay your debts. True it will be tight but you can manage and I will assist you." At that Lady Catherine spoke, or rather snarled, "I need no help from you. When did you ever help me before? I have managed to get this far myself, I am sure I can discharge my own debts," she said haughtily. Lady Matlock spoke softly, hoping not to further raise Lady Catherine's ire, "why is it that you are so angry? That you refuse our help?"
Chapter 11
Lady Catherine looked at them questioningly and spoke bitterly, "Have you not wondered how it was that I came to marry Lewis deBourgh, a man so much my senior? He was a good man do not mistake me. But I did not love him. I could not no matter how I tried. And I did try... so very hard." "What is it that you are saying, Catherine," Lord Matlock cried. "Matlock was heavily leveraged. Father had made bad investments. My marriage to Lewis deBourgh saved you and your inheritance. Now perhaps you understand my motives and actions better."
Anne was torn between anger at her mother and a strange strangled feeling of love and pity. But then she thought of her papa, her laughing dead father. It did not make sense. How could her mother not have loved her father? Had she loved someone else? Anne was never to know, for Lady Catherine was gone. It had rained continuously since Lady Catherine left Matlock, and by the time she reached London she was ill, for the first time in her life. By the time Anne and Richard reached her, she was delirious and speaking to herself. She did not seem to recognize either Anne or Richard, though at times she seemed to call out for her 'dear Anne' in a voice that Anne thought sounded like the mother she had always wished she'd had. But there was a name she called out more often and more desperately, "Michael". Neither Anne nor Richard knew what to make of it.
Anne cried real tears for her mother, a mother she felt she never knew. A mother who never really loved her and had kept her caged. She did ask Lord Matlock if there were any Michael in her mother's acquaintance. At first Lord Matlock could not remember, but Anne prodded him. She had to know who her mother was. After awhile, Lord Matlock seemed to remember a certain Viscount named Michael who seemed to have regarded Catherine rather highly. Handsome fellow and an excellent horseman. "But then our Catherine was a fine girl then." "But what happened to him," Anne had to know. "It was so long ago. But I think it was a rather tragic accident, something had caused his horse to shy and he was thrown. The horse's hoofs came down hard upon him." Lord Matlock remembered it all now. He remembered Catherine had been inconsolable. And then there had been that rather sudden engagement to Lewis deBourgh, it had made him question if there was ever an attachment between Catherine and the dashing young Viscount. It seemed Catherine had loved him far more than her family suspected, and Lord Matlock mourned for the sister he had once known.
Anne and Richard had planned on remarrying with their family and friends present, but with Lady Catherine's death it had delayed for propriety's sake. It was a lovely autumn day when Richard and Anne remarried before their friends and family. Though Lady Matlock had insisted upon buying Anne a wedding dress. Anne would not have it; she would be married in her own wedding dress. So Richard in his regimentals and Anne in her spring green dress and scarlet shawl were married once again. Lord and Lady Matlock could not be happier. If only Georgie and Andrew would settle, everything would be perfect.
Anne decided to travel with he Colonel, they spent leaves at Rosings Park. And together they rediscovered its beauty. Still they had heated battles over which estate they preferred Rosings Park or Matlock. Once years after their marriage, after the birth of their first and only child, Anne had asked Richard why he had never had his fortune read. Looking over his newspaper, his green eyes twinkling, Richard smugly answered, "Whatever makes you think I haven't. I have always known that I would marry a beautiful, wealthy, young woman."