Saving Anne De Bourgh by Jann Rowland

Saving Anne De Bourgh by Jann Rowland

Author:Jann Rowland [Rowland, Jann]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Pride and Prejudice & Related Fandoms, Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence
ISBN: 9781990856587
Barnesnoble:
Goodreads: 217218741
Publisher: One Good Sonnet Publishing
Published: 2024-08-05T04:00:00+00:00


Chapter XVIII

The day after what the residents of both Netherfield Park and Longbourn considered a day of great consequence dawned more peacefully. Though most were not disposed to spend the morning abed, several took a more leisurely time in preparing to meet the day, and no one was of a mind to stray far from the estates. They had even agreed before Fitzwilliam and Darcy left Longbourn the previous day to eschew visits that day. Those two gentlemen had informed the rest of the party that they meant to visit Wickham in the local jail that morning, but that was only to inform him of what his fate would be. Once completed, they intended to return to Netherfield at once to rest for the remainder of the day.

Anne de Bourgh was grateful for the dedication of their servants, men and women who had worked at Rosings for many years, even before her father’s passing more than a decade ago. As her mother had informed them, the carriage bearing their effects had gone to London, then had proceeded north based on the Darcy housekeeper’s suggestion. The Darcy footmen had come across them and, knowing the de Bourgh family crest and being familiar with the drivers because of yearly visits, had directed the carriage to Netherfield Park. Thus, the ladies had changes of clothes available for their use that morning, a simple luxury Anne had not appreciated before.

The party gathered for a late breakfast that morning, and they attended it with little conversation, eager to break their fast despite the excellent dinner at Longbourn the night before. With such a day of leisure planned, it would not be a surprise should the party all separate to their various activities for the rest of the day, though Anne supposed that she and her mother truly had little to do. The way her mother regarded her surreptitiously, her scrutiny speaking to thoughts Anne would prefer did not take hold on her, she took steps to ensure her mother understood exactly what would ensue in the coming days.

“Since it appears my mother wishes to speak this morning,” said Anne when she had finished her breakfast, “I believe it would be best to sequester ourselves at once.” Anne smiled and Mr. Bingley and added: “I apologize, sir, but we should confine this to a family gathering.”

“Not at all,” said Mr. Bingley. “As I have been away for some time, I should speak with the steward and familiarize myself with the status of the estate. Please feel free to use any room you like for your conference.”

Lady Catherine, Anne noted, scowled at her, though she nodded with approval at Mr. Bingley’s plans. Darcy and Fitzwilliam appeared to have no objection, so they rose, excused themselves, and made their way to the library. Once within, Lady Catherine lost no time in reprimanding her daughter.

“Must you speak of such things so openly, Anne?”

“If you recall,” said Anne, “I only said there are matters we must discuss. That Mr. Bingley



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