A Love Most True
True love isn't something you can plan. You can't see a person and decide that you love them. You can't accept a marriage proposal because it's a comfortable option. Love will out and it will never die. Charlotte Collins was painfully aware of this fact. She had been so sure that she could love Mr. Collins, so sure she could control her feelings. But he'd come back for her and all her feelings had come rushing back. This was the reason that she was tearing around the house while the servants and her husband were in church. She had pleaded an indisposition and since she was pregnant Mr. Collins excused her "on this occasion".
Actually the child was the reason this was happening. It wasn't her husband's baby she was carrying. It was lucky for her that her husband was too stupid to work it out. She got out a few of her gowns and threw them in a bag. She could only take as much with her as she could carry. Her instructions were clear, she was to walk 2 miles, take a post chaise to the inn and meet him there. Her hands were shaking as she closed the door behind her and walked away from her home.
0-0
It was nightfall when she finally arrived at the Rose and Crown. She was exhausted and famished. He was waiting for her and escorted her inside. He allowed her to eat and drink until she felt better. She was still exhausted, however, and was not in the mood for any entertainment he had in mind. He was visibly angry at that and she realized that this was the first time that she had disagreed with him. He refused to be near her for the rest of the evening until she couldn't stand it anymore and gave in. She cried herself to sleep that night, lamenting but not regretting her actions.
0-0
The next morning she woke up, alone. There was a letter waiting for her and she opened it quickly. It read:
Dear Charlotte,
I need you to believe that I am indeed sorry for the pain this letter will cause you. I have spoken to your husband. He came a few hours ago. He assured me that he will take you back and all will be forgiven.
She sobbed loudly. This couldn't be true.
I found, on speaking to him, that I could not do you such evil that I had planned. You are another man's wife and I am another woman's husband. We must both do our duty in the marriages we have willingly entered. Believe me, I am sorry.
She crumpled the note and threw it into the fire. She was sobbing violently now. The cad! How did he dare to presume to act in her best interest? She detested William Collins and she loved him. She knew he didn't love his wife either. She had given up everything for him and this was how he repaid her? She packed her bag again and made her way home, what other choice did she have?
0-0
A/N: Okay, it seems like everyone has really different opinions on whom her lover is. I'm posting a poll on my profile and please, please, please take the time to vote.