I'm glad everyone's been enjoying the last couple of chapters and now we come to what is next. I'm pleased to be able to post the second chapter of today.
Just then I heard the unmistakeable sound of horses pulling Aunt Catherine's barouche toward us along the adjoining drive. I glanced over my shoulder to confirm that it was indeed hers, before turning back towards Miss Elizabeth and Edwin, and therefore saw them when they turned toward the sound, with Edwin startling when he saw me.
A minute or two later, Aunt Catherine's barouche pulled up beside us and I heard Aunt Catherine in her most commanding voice say, "Miss Bennet join me, I am going to call on the Collinses." Parker opened the door and offered his hand. Miss Elizabeth quickly glanced at me, saw me nod and then she was off. I waited until the barouche was away before turning back to Edwin.
"I have done only what I feel is right and best serves the interest of our family," he told me.
"When I was yet a child and our fathers arranged a plan by which you would help me navigate society, I know you helped me a great deal. You tirelessly worked to assist me, helped to lessen the effects of my errors and helped others abide me. Even after my majority you continued in your efforts as my father wanted. It was proper that I complied with his wishes as my father still commanded my filial respect as his son and heir."
He nodded and I continued. "When my father died he rewarded you with an estate and no one would have thought it amiss if you had withdrawn then. We ourselves could have come to an arrangement about continuing your service, but we did not. Instead you continued on as if you were appointed in your duties for life and I acquiesced."
He looked as if he were about to speak, but I held up my hand for silence and he closed his mouth. "Edwin, I used to think of you as almost an elder brother, but now it feels more like you are my keeper. It was never your job to fully arrange my life for me. I have come to realize that I will never truly be a man if I let this continue. Therefore I release you from any further obligation. I will undoubtedly make many mistakes as I will never have your skills, but I will own them as my own."
"My father commands--"
"Your father does not command me!"
"My father will be displeased."
"That is an affair between you and he. I am sure he can find other uses for your skills. Perhaps you will wish to marry; with your charm you should do well."
"Aunt Catherine--"
"Has already acknowledged that my choice of bride is my decision and has accepted it will never be Anne. You no longer have her support in this matter. We are both appalled by what you would suggest for Miss Elizabeth. Return to Rosings, I will see you gone in the morning."
Edwin opened his mouth as if to say something, but then closed it again. He turned and walked in the direction of Rosings. I turned the opposite way and headed for the parsonage.