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Posted on Wednesday, 19 April 2000
Anne rose at her customary hour of five o'clock in the morning. The sun was still sleeping beyond the dark clouds of night and only the rooster knew that it was time to crow. Stifling a yawn, she walked over to her wash stand and splashed icy, cold water on her face. The temperature of the water was incredibly bracing and brought her immediately to attention. Anne moved to the small trunk at the foot of her bed and withdrew a neatly pressed, but coarse muslin gown. It followed over her undergarments, and was accompanied by her starchy white apron and prim ruffled cap. The ruffles were considered a luxury, representing her position as an abigail, which was rate high up on the social scale of servants.
Anne lived on Sir Musgrove's country estate, Featherdown, of course she was not always in residence here. Anne followed her mistress, Louisa Musgrove, where she happened to be, whether be here in Uppercross, or in London, or at the family's estate in Devonshire. Louisa was eighteen years old, good-natured, albeit a trifle spoilt. She had a younger sister, Henrietta, who was sixteen and aspiring to be just like her elder sister. Anne's main task was caring for Louisa, but on special occasions, she dressed and cared for Henrietta.
Today was a special occasion, for the Musgroves were hosting a ball in honor of Sir Wentworth's youngest son's return from the sea to Uppercross.
Sir Wentworth lived ten miles east of Featherdown, on a large estate called Spring Grove. Sir Wentworth's elder son, Robert, was in line to become baronet. His younger son, Captain Wentworth, had entered the royal navy when he was sixteen. He had slowly risen through the ranks to receive a captainship and was very distinguished.
Anne had never seen Captain Wentworth, but had been told many times (mostly in the past three days) that he was the handsomest fellow that ever did live. Louisa was beyond excited and Anne knew why. It was the greatest wish of Sir Musgrove that one of his daughters (preferably Louisa) marry into the Wentworth family. It would be a great alliance and both families would benefit from it exceedingly. And since Robert was already married, Captain Wentworth was the Musgroves last hope.
Anne did not agree with this plan. Although she did not have any especial like for her mistress, she did think that Louisa should have the chance to marry for love. Even though Anne was a servant, therefore the on the lowest echelons of society, she rejoiced in the fact that she would not have to be a pawn in the marriage game.
Anne quickly finished up and repaired down the servant's stairs to the kitchen. Cook was ensconced by the fire, stirring a large black pot of porridge.
"Good morning." Anne greeted her quietly.
"Good morning, to ye." Cook replied cheerfully.
Anne went to the cupboard and withdrew the stack of wooden bowls that were reserved for servants. It was her morning duty to help Cook prepare for onslaught of servants.
"'Tis going to be a busy day." Cook observed, pulling the pot from the fire.
"Oh yes, and exciting, according to Miss Louisa."
"Exciting for her, she's the one who's trying to catch Captain Wentworth. Let us hope 'e's got the sense to avoid anything that gel will try."
"Now, now." Anne soothed, but knew the cook's words were true. Louisa would be insufferable if she put her mind to winning Captain Wentworth and did not. And God forbid if Henrietta should catch his eye.
The door swung open, admitting the scullery maid and two under maids. Anne greeted them in the same manner as she did Cook. They nodded their heads, but did not make any overtures of kindness. Anne frowned. She was not well-liked among some the servants because she was educated. They thought her uppity, although Anne had gone out of her way to remain humble and quiet in their presence. Apparently, her quietness only served to fuel their jealously and suspicions. She took up her bowl, filled it with porridge, and sat down at the scarred wooden table.
The door opened again, admitting the footman, George.
"Hello, Anne!" He greeted her happily.
Anne smiled in return, nodded and replied, "George."
He picked up his own bowl, filling it with food, and sat down beside Anne.
"Are ye excited about today?" He asked.
"I suppose, I have not really thought on it." Anne answered truthfully.
'How can ye ignore, what's going on? 'Specially with the Misses Louisa and Henrietta clamoring about." George replied, eating with gusto.
Anne couldn't help but laugh.
"I meant that I have not thought about being excited because I have been preoccupied with pressing all thirteen of Miss Louisa's gowns in case of an emergency."
George and Cook both laughed uproariously. Anne smiled, happy that she had brought them some pleasure. The other girls just smirked. That was another reason that they did not like, for Anne had gained the attention of George. He was a handsome man of three and twenty, tall, and blessed with a good wit. All the servant girls sighed whenever he was near and the fact that Anne, who was considered plain, was chosen to receive his attentions. If only they knew that their relationship was purely on a friendship basis...
Anne rose and went to wash out her bowl.
"Leaving so soon?" George inquired.
"Unfortunately, yes. I have some mending to do on Henrietta's green muslin."
"Very pressing," George agreed with a nod of his head.
Anne smiled and quietly left the room.
"Anne!!!" Louisa Musgrove shouted, her voice carrying down the brightly-lit corridors of Featherdown. She shifted herself out of her cozy bed and over to her dressing table. This is too horrible to be real! She thought, examining her face.
Anne came rushing through the doors. "Yes, Miss?"
"Anne, this is too terrible. You will not believe."
Anne watched her expectantly, waiting for her to supply what was so troubling.
Louisa finally sighed in disgust and replied crossly, "I have a freckle!"
Anne tried not to laugh. "I cannot tell that there is one. I think you are over-reacting...."
"No I am not! Tonight is probably the most important night of my life. I could be meeting my future husband! I cannot have a freckle! Fetch me the lotion Dr. Sanders left for Henrietta...."
"But that is for Henrietta's blemishes..." Anne protested.
"I do not care. When it comes to the face, nothing can do harm."
Anne quirked a brow and then went to claim the item in question. When she returned, Louisa eagerly took the lotion and began smearing it over the offending freckle.
"There!" She declared upon finishing, "I can see it going away as we speak."
Anne just shook her head and moved about the room, picking up discarded pieces of clothing.
"Oh, Anne, I am so excited! Captain Wentworth is so handsome!"
"So you have seen him before?" Anne queried, her curiosity was slightly piqued.
"Well, when I was thirteen, just before he left."
Henrietta suddenly burst into the room. "How can you remember what he looks like? I can barely remember what he looks like, and I was only ten when he left!" She demanded.
"There is a difference between ten and thirteen, Henrietta. One remembers much more at thirteen." Louisa replied haughtily. A debate ensued and Anne quietly let herself out of the room.
Sorry, this section is so short, but I ran out of time while writing it at work! Thanks for all of your encouraging comments.
A few hours later
"ANNE!!!" A shrill voice screamed, sending Anne running to Louisa's room.
She threw open the door and beheld Louisa, who was staring at the mirror in horrific disbelief.
"My-my face-'tis..." Louisa stammered and then turned around to look at her maid. Anne started upon looking at Louisa's normally peaches-and-cream complexion.
"Miss Louisa..." Anne managed to say. In the place of Louisa's beautiful face, was skin botched red with rash. The lotion, Anne thought, trying not to laugh. I told her not to put so much on...
"Oh, Anne," Louisa wailed, "whatever shall I do?" Real tears sprang to the girl's eyes, and the situation lost all its humor. Anne immediately went into action. She poured cool water in the basin by the bed, and soaked a cloth. She sat Louisa down and told her to press the cloth to her face.
"I shall be back within half an hour. Until then stay calm, you will not help the situation by crying." Anne told her firmly. Louisa nodded and sniffed.
"W-where are you going?" Louisa asked.
"You shall see." Anne replied quietly and left the room.
Anne repaired to the kitchen and from there, into the dark environs of the herb cellar. The smells of rotting vegetation and dirt assailed her senses. She began examining the various bottles and jars of roots and herbs that had been stored over time. Elder flower, white pond lily root, yarrow, chamomile... Anne selected the bottle of elder flower and a bottle of chamomile and made her way back to the kitchen. Once there, she emptied a liberal amount of the herbs into a bowl. She crushed them with the pestle until they were ground into dust. She then measured a small teaspoon of flour into the mixture.
Cook came in and eyed her.
"What ever are you doing?" She asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Miss Louisa is having a skin problem." Anne answered.
Cook snorted in return and moved to the other tabletop to mix bread. Anne added just enough milk to make the concoction stick. She mixed it together and being satisfied, she returned to Louisa.
Her mistress was not in better spirits, her time was occupied applying cold water to her face and staring at herself in the mirror. When Anne entered the room, her looks of despair changed to hopeful anticipation.
"Have you found something?" She queried, looking at the bowl in Anne's hands.
"Maybe, but do not get your hopes up. I cannot guarantee that this will work." Anne took a seat beside Louisa and began applying the poultice to her mistress's face.
"Ughh...! What is this?" Louisa said, repelled and curious at the same time.
"A mixture of chamomile, elder flower, milk, and flour for consistency." Anne replied calmly.
Louisa raised a brow, but did not brook any opposition. Anne finished and washed her hands.
"Go and lie quietly for awhile. The rest will help your nerves." Anne directed her and helped her into bed.
"Oh Anne, you are so good to me." Louisa replied, stifling a yawn. She was asleep within minutes. Anne smiled slowly and took the bowl back to the kitchen.
When Louisa awoke, dusk was falling, and she was ready to take off the poultice. Anne carefully removed it, praying all the while. When Louisa looked in the mirror, she was slightly dismayed.
"'Tis not gone."
"'Tis much better, though." Anne reminded her. "A little rice powder will finish the job."
Louisa was considerably buoyed by this suggestion.
"You are right." She answered.
Henrietta burst into the room, clad only in her undergarments.
"Henrietta!" Louisa exclaimed. "Go and put your clothes on directly! What would the servants say if they saw you in such disarray!"
"I need Anne to help me with my stays." Henrietta shot back defiantly.
"Whatever for, the ball is not until...." Louisa glanced at the clock and emitted a squeal of angst. "The ball! It starts in two hours. Quick, Anne quick! Draw me a bath and prepare my clothes."
Anne quickly finished tying Henrietta's stays and raced to the kitchen to order water. A half an hour later, Louisa was soaking in the tub while, Anne simultaneously curled her hair into an elaborate coif. Louisa carefully washed, avoiding her face entirely. She finished and toweled off, trying to go as fast as she could. Anne helped her with her undergarments and stays, and then her green embroidered silk gown, which was made especially for the occasion. Anne draped a sheet around her, and dusted her face with the earlier prescribed rice powder. It did the trick, the splotches were barely visible in the candlelight, and Louisa was radiant with happiness. She calmed down considerably.
"Anne, you are a godsend, I do not know what I would have done without you." Anne accepted the praise quietly, happy that she had been a service to her mistress. Louisa gathered her shawl and fan and went I search of her mother.
Spring Grove
"'Tis imperative that you marry Louisa Musgrove, Frederick!" Sir Wentworth railed at his son, his face red with anger.
"I do not love her, Father, it has been nearly five years since I went away. How can you expect me to marry a complete stranger?!" Frederick answered, equally enraged.
"That makes no difference! At least half of the population of England has married a stranger! Be grateful that you know her a little." He stopped for a moment to take a gulp of his port.
"Louisa is an affable girl, not exactly intelligent, but she has enough education for a woman of her rank." Robert inserted from across the room.
Frederick emitted a groan. He could not take both his father and elder brother. I should have never returned, if it were not for my d*mned sense of duty.
"You shall meet her tonight, Frederick, and you will find her to be quite a winning creature." Sir Wentworth gave a laugh, "Indeed, after tonight, you shall have no objections!"
Anne sat quietly in a chair, stitching the embroidery of a handkerchief. The strains of the orchestra floated up through the open windows, lulling her into complacency. The ball had been in full swing for nearly two hours and Anne had not seen Louisa once. That meant that her dance card was full and when she returned, she would be floating on a cloud of happiness.
The Wentworths had arrived in style, or so Anne had observed. Curiosity got the best of her and when she heard voices from below trumpeting their return, she had watched from the window. She could not make out the features of the notorious Captain Wentworth, however she had decided that he must be very handsome. He rose above the rest of his party, his brother and portly father being nearly half his size in height. His broad shoulders were another indication of his days at sea. He must be terribly interesting, Anne had decided. What must it be like to have been at sea for five years and to come home to nothing but an endless round of balls and parties. Of course, he may like the social season, she reasoned.
Anne allowed her mind to wander and when a rap sounded on the door, she was started out of her wits. Who ever could it be? She opened the door to find George, his blond hair slicked back, and resplendent in his liveried uniform.
"Hello, there. Don't tell me that a pretty lass like yourself is whittling away the hours alone."
Anne smiled in spite of the blush that covered her cheeks.
"I have work to do, and besides I do not have any business being down stairs."
"You do however, have business out-of-doors. 'Tis a lovely night and I'll be lonely unless you accompany me." George told her quite persuasively, and extended his arm.
"We cannot go outside! What if we are caught? 'Tis not proper for us to be alone." Anne protested, her anxiety disguised by her whisperings.
"And what if we're not caught? Besides, 'tis not like we're upstanding social members. We're just servants; no one takes heed to servants." George explained, and before Anne could protest again, he grabbed her arm and pulled her down the corridor, barely giving her enough time to take her apron and cap.
George led them down the servant's stairs and out the back door. The gardens lay ahead and were fortunately empty.
Anne sighed with relief.
"See. No one is here. And 'tis a beautiful night." George told her triumphantly.
Anne could not protest because he was right. She wrapped her arms around herself and walked slowly among the rows of blooming flowers. Even though spring had descended upon Uppercross, the nights could still be chilly.
George followed her slowly, not wanting to interrupt Anne's reverie. However, other people contrived to do just that. One of the numerous French doors opened, spilling candlelight into the dark night. Anne froze unable to move, but George grabbed her and pulled her behind a nearby hedge. They crouched silently, not wanting to be found out. Footsteps echoed on the brick path and soon disappeared. They still stood still. Anne's stomach suddenly rumbled, making her blanch in embarrassment and fear. George tried not to snicker, but failed miserably. He peered around the hedge and found the path empty once more.
"Whoever it was is gone."
Anne followed him, her face red with blushes. George caught sight of her and laughed again. She allowed for a sheepishly smile and then joined in his laugher.
"I did not have a chance to eat." She responded.
"Well, then let me a service to you. I heard the roasted quail was quite good. I'll be back in a few moments."
"No!" Anne exclaimed, tugging on his arm.
"Don't worry, no one will come again. I'll be back, I promise." He then disappeared into the night.
Anne watched after him for a moment and then began to walk down the brick path. She lost all uneasiness and lost herself in the beauty of the night. Anne was startled into reality when she realized she walked into a dead end. And then she noticed that she was not alone.
"Oh, my.... I am so sorry, please excuse me, I did not see you..." Anne stammered.
The man looked surprised to see her, but then split into a grin when he saw that the lady was so apologetic. That was definitely uncharacteristic of the female sex, especially when they contrived to be near him.
"Please, do not apologize. I was just partaking in a brief respite from the crowds. There is quite a crush, but I am sure you are aware of that."
Anne started, and then realized he must think her one of the guest. How could he mistake her for one of the guests? Her dress was not exactly the finery she knew the other women were wearing. Of course, it was rather dark out here.
"Oh yes, of course." She replied before she knew what she was saying. How could she mislead him like this? What does it matter? I shall never see him again.
"I find it difficult to believe that a lady would be forgoing spins around the room in a handsome man's arms." The man said suddenly.
"Oh... I do not enjoy dancing, very much, actually.... I prefer to play the piano-forte, yes, I enjoy that much better." Anne managed to say, gaining confidence every moment.
"Really? That is rather singular." He replied.
"This is not the first time someone has called me singular." Anne replied a smile on her face.
"No! I--I did not mean to offend, I meant..." He looked at her helplessly.
"I did not take offense." Anne answered her smile widening.
The man appeared to breathe a sigh of relief, a smile creasing his features.
"I have been considered singular," the man said slowly, trying to smooth things over.
"How so?" Anne asked.
"Well, I enjoy being at sea more than attending parties." He replied.
Anne felt her smile freeze in place. Was this man Captain Wentworth? I have to go away, before he finds out that I am nothing but a servant. She had lied to him. The garden suddenly seemed like it was closing in on her.
"I am sorry, I did not get your name, Miss. How indomitably rude of me!" The man exclaimed suddenly, interrupting Anne's troubled thoughts.
"My name...." Anne said, not knowing what to say.
"Anne!" A voice said her name in a low shout.
Anne turned suddenly and then spun around again, her face white.
"I am sorry, I must go..." Anne said, who was starting to turn away.
"Anne...wait." The man said, tentatively.
Anne looked at him nervously.
"Shall I see you again? I know that that is forward, but..."
Anne smiled sadly, and replied, "I do not think that is possible..."
"No, wait...." A questioning look passed across his face.
Anne's name sounded again.
"I have to go...!" He cannot find out what I am... Anne turned and ran, not giving him another chance to stall her.
Frederick Wentworth watched the girl leave, and he felt immensely sorry.
Anne could barely keep her countenance while Louisa talked on and on about he charming Captain Wentworth.
He is nothing like...He seems only wishing for solitude...Anne thought.
"Oh, and I think he took a fancy to me as well. We danced six times, much more than he danced with the other girls. I think we are well on our way to a prosperous relationship. And it does not hurt that I am so well acquainted with his sister-in-law, Amelia Wentworth, even though she is a trifle dull, I shall be able to call at Spring Grove whenever I want." Louisa rambled on aimlessly, barely paying attention to Anne or her expressions of discontent.
Anne was perplexed by Captain Wentworth and secretly hoped to meet him again. It had pained her to tell him that she would not, could not ever see him again.
"Did you see Charles? He and Mary came late... Typical, Mary can be so rude when it comes to arriving at a fashionable hour. I heartily wish that Charles had not married her! And to think she will inhabit Featherdown upon Papa's death." Louisa paused to catch her breath and to release a sigh.
Charles Musgrove was the eldest of the clan and adored by both of his youngest sisters. Louisa had never liked Mary, his wife, and wished her miles away.
"She is a waste of space, I think she takes being dull to new heights!" Louisa declared.
"Really, Miss Louisa, you are too harsh!"
"I am not!" Louisa cried, "Mary has never done me any favors and I shall not give her any praise."
Anne shook her head and tried to smile.
"I think I shall visit Amelia Wentworth tomorrow. Hopefully, Captain Wentworth will help receive me."
Anne surprised herself by hoping that Captain Wentworth would be far from Spring Grove tomorrow.
Anne's morning was hectic to the extreme. Louisa rose the next morning and demanded that her best day gown should be pressed in preparation of her visit to Spring Grove. Anne was running to and fro, gathering parasols, shawls, and other paraphernalia so that Louisa could leave at eleven o'clock on the dot.
Anne stood at the front door, watching the retreating wheels of the Musgrove carriage. She sighed, glad to finally have the chance to catch her breath. However, her rest was short lived when she heard voices coming from the library.
"Really, Wentworth, what do you prefer? You should take advantage of my father's well-stocked wine cellar."
It was Charles.
Anne held her breath.
"If you insist... I believe some brandy is in order." Wentworth replied in soft, but virile tones.
"Good...good!" Charles replied.
Nothing was said for the moment.
"Charles," Wentworth began, "do you have anyone staying here, as a guest?"
"I do not think so." Charles replied, perplexed.
"Are you sure?"
"Father has said nothing. And I do not think Louisa or Henrietta has any friends down. Why do you ask?"
"I count you as a great friend, Charles." Wentworth said.
"Of course, ever since Eton and then Oxford."
"Well, last night I was out admiring the gardens and I met a young lady."
Anne sucked in her breath.
"She was rather extraordinary, and I was wondering if she was staying here." Wentworth continued.
"Maybe she was a servant..." Charles said off-handedly.
"No! I mean she was much too intelligent and well bred to be a servant." Wentworth answered promptly.
Anne felt her heart sink. It was obvious by his reaction that he would condemn her if ever he should find out her true identity. Anne sighed and walked back upstairs.
Anne watched Captain Wentworth's progress through the gardens. Was he thinking of her? Stop it, she berated herself, you heard what he said. He will never view you as an equal, cultured or not. Oh, if only she had remained indoors she would have never met him. And her heart would not feel so... So what? Battered, beaten? You act as if he has spurned your affections. He does not even know who you really are!
Anne stood a moment longer in solitude. Suddenly, the bed chamber door burst open.
"Oh Anne!" Louisa cried, her countenance flushed and bonnet askew. "Captain Wentworth is here! And in our garden! Oh, you must help me."
Louisa quickly plucked her bonnet off and flopped down on her dressing table bench.
"Fix my hair, hurry, it is mussed."
Anne quickly set to work and had Louisa's hair rearranged in minutes.
"Is he still there?" Louisa demanded impatiently, applying powder to her face.
Anne peered out the window.
"Yes," she replied quietly.
"Then come along. You must supervise us, Mama has gone to Uppercross and I cannot receive him alone!"
"Oh, Miss Louisa..." Anne stammered, absolutely horrified at the thought. Wentworth would learn her true identity!
"Do not make me go, I am sure that there are servants around, no one will raise a peep." Anne finished.
"Anne! You must go! Come along!" Louisa demanded, pulling Anne along with her.
Oh no...! This cannot be happening! Anne thought, when bright sunlight hit her face.
Louisa let go of her maid, and straightened her dress and pinched her cheeks.
"Oh Captain Wentworth! Whatever are you doing here?" Louisa called, raising her parasol.
"Miss Musgrove! I hope this morning finds you well." Captain Wentworth replied quietly.
Anne kept her head bowed, but managed to sneak a peek at the captain. He did not look like he wished her well....
"Will you allow me to give you a tour?" Louisa said, indicating the surrounding gardens. "And when we finish, we can visit the lake."
"I would be delighted." Captain Wentworth replied, but then said, "But do you not think we should have a chaperone, I would hate to have your reputation besmirched on my account."
'Oh, my maid shall accompany us. Shall you not Anne?" Louisa said, directing the question to Anne.
Anne raised her head a trifle, and shall that Wentworth's expression was one of shock.
"Yes, ma'am." Anne replied softly, groaning inwardly. Now he shall think I am a liar. He must despise the very ground I walk upon, Anne thought. She watched as Captain Wentworth recovered from his surprise and offered his arm to Louisa. Anne followed silently, her embarrassment complete.
Anne stayed a respectable distance throughout Louisa and Captain Wentworth's walk. Her mortification was complete and she hardly wished a hole would open up and swallow her completely. Even in her most abject humiliation, she could not ignore the backward glances of confusion, shock, and anger that Wentworth sent her way. Anne was all to happy when George appeared with a message from Lady Musgrove.
"Lady Musgrove requires your attendance in the drawing room, Miss Musgrove. She said the appointment was of the utmost importance." George relayed to Louisa, his attention actually on Anne, who skulked behind. Louisa gave a polite 'thank you' and quickly dismissed the footman.
"Oh bother!" Louisa exclaimed, losing her affectation of lady-like submissiveness and charm. "I am dreadfully sorry, Captain Wentworth, but we are going to have to postpone this visit until a later date. My mother would have my head if I do not attend her."
"Of course, Miss Musgrove. I could not have you defy your mother on the account of me." Captain Wentworth said with a slight smile.
"Oh, how kind of you to be so obliging. Your cheerful temper does you credit." Louisa said, smiling flirtatiously. Captain Wentworth gave short bow at the waist.
"I you will excuse me then." Louisa said, and then turning to Anne, directed, "Make sure Captain Wentworth is shown to Mr. Musgrove's study, I'm sure Charles will be delighted to have company."
Anne stared at her, frozen in place, a horrified look of dismay plastered on her face.
"That will not be necessary, Miss Musgrove. I have already paid my respects to your brother this morning." Captain Wentworth replied hastily, sensing Anne's discomfort.
"Will you not take some kind of refreshment in the receiving room then?" Louisa pressed, batting her eyelashes very prettily. "I might have a chance to join if my appointment with Mother is of a short duration."
Captain Wentworth looked faintly surprised and then amused. "It would be my pleasure, Miss Musgrove."
"Good!" Louisa exclaimed, clapping her hands delightedly. "Anne will take you there and then see to your comfort."
The momentary relief Anne had felt dissipated into nothing.
"Thank you, Miss Musgrove, I shall hope to see you momentarily." Captain Wentworth answered and moved to follow Anne, who had already departed at a rapid pace.
Louisa smiled and left to go into the house through the back door.
Anne, on the other hand, nearly raced to the side door leading into the receiving room. Wentworth followed slowly for a moment, and then stretched his strides to catch up. He gained her side and then demanded, "Why did you lie to me?"
Anne did not even acknowledge his presence and replied calmly, "I did not mislead you into believing anything."
"But you were in the garden, I naturally assumed..." He stopped, realizing his mistake.
"You assumed," Anne answered in quiet resoluteness.
"Of course, I would assume. You were wandering in the garden! That is a place that is not inhabited by servants."
"Respectfully I say this, sir, but I have a free will to 'wander' as you put it, where ever I like." Anne responded.
"You are a servant, though." Wentworth pointed out, but not in a condescending manner.
"You seem to believe that my status should dictate my actions." Anne said, her manner slightly offended.
"No, I do not mean I that way...but you take a lot of upon yourself."
"Naturally, I am an abigail, my status is directly beneath the housekeeper herself." Anne supplied as if lecturing a child. "I also read books from Sir Musgrove's library, does that offend you as well?" Anne stopped to open the side door, and to confront him.
Captain Wentworth opened his mouth to speak, but then snapped it shut.
"I owe you an apology Miss Eliot. Please forgive me." He supplied dutifully.
Anne looked at him, trying to decide whether or not he was being heart-felt. She looked into his eyes and was surprised by what she saw. Respect.
"Apology accepted." Anne responded quietly, uncertainty replacing her anger.
Captain Wentworth took a tentative step forward and leaned closer. Anne's eyes grew wide and as he drew closer, her mind was racing in every direction. Clarity dawned upon her and she stepped back, swinging the door open. Wentworth looked as if he had been struck, but straightened himself and moved through the door. Anne followed him, her mind screaming, 'fool!' for every step she took. She was quite relieved when she saw George step forward and open the door.
"George, please take care of Captain Wentworth." Anne asked him softly. George readily complied, disturbed by Anne's pale countenance. Anne mouthed a silent 'thank you' and hurriedly disappeared upstairs.