The melodious peal of church bells echoed through the village to announce the newly married couple. When Anne and Frederick emerged from the doors, a loud roar erupted from the crowd of Kellynch tenantry who had gathered outside to congratulate their favourite member of Sir Walter's family. They trailed behind the happy couple, cheering them all the way to Kellynch Hall, where Admiral and Sophia Croft had kindly agreed the wedding breakfast would be held.

Aside from Mary, only two other guests did not fully enjoy the splendid affair. Sitting in a distant corner of the room, Elizabeth sulked at the joyous scene before her. Somehow she, the eldest and handsomest of three daughters to a baronet, was the only one still unmarried. Adding to the insult was the recent loss of Mrs. Clay who, according to rumours, had absconded to London with Mr. Elliot in late February. Meanwhile, Sir Walter sat next to Elizabeth in silent horror at the number of nobodies inside his grand house, but he was mollified that his least favourite daughter had secured a husband with a fine fortune, good appearances and a well-sounding name.

Lady Russell felt quite the opposite as she watched the newlyweds with heartfelt delight and motherly pride. Though Anne and Frederick remained ignorant of her role in Louisa's decision to release Frederick, they would no doubt find out soon, for Louisa had told Henrietta and information flowed from both sisters like elder wine through a sieve.

After spending a respectable amount of time with their guests and eating a celebratory piece of cake, Anne and Frederick prepared to depart on their bridal tour. Anne had expressed a desire to explore fresh places with novelty and beauty, so Frederick arranged a month-long trip to Pinny, Charmouth and then further on to the Isle of Wight.

As they approached the front doors of Kellynch Hall, Frederick surprised Anne by saying, "Your second wedding gift awaits outside, Mrs. Wentworth."

She smiled at the sound of her new name and unconsciously brought her hand to her new necklace. "But you already gave me a gift, Frederick. I do not need anything more. You know I am happy just to be with you."

"I know, but I wanted to give you these gifts. I am afraid you will simply have to get used to it, my love."

They stepped outside to the sight of a very pretty landaulette, with two matching chestnut horses and a coachman standing at the ready. The carriage boasted elegant, curved lines, a folded down roof and seats covered in a stunning mazurine blue fabric.

"Oh, Frederick!" Anne gasped in delight.

"I know it is rather impulsive, but Sophia said we could keep the carriage at Kellynch Hall when we return, until we find a place of our own to settle."

"I love it, Frederick. It is so beautiful!"

"As is its mistress," he murmured.

A pretty blush overspread her face.

"And you need not worry," he joked. "I had the coachman inspect it twice to ensure we do not suffer any broken wheels or other mishaps today."

Anne laughed and gently squeezed his arm. "I do not fear being stranded anywhere as long as I am with you."

Holding his hand out, Frederick assisted his wife up, then joined her on the seat. As their family and friends gathered around to wave goodbye, the landaulette pulled forward. At last, they were alone. Just the two of them. Plus the coachman sitting in front.

Whilst Frederick took in the scenery around them, Anne turned to her side and started pulling up the folded down panels.

"What are you doing, Anne? The weather is perfect today for having the roof down. We can see the sights along the way to Pinny."

"I have other plans for today." Her eyes twinkled as she kept at her work.

"Would you care to elaborate?"

Anne shook her head and motioned at the coachman sitting a few feet away. Frederick asked him to stop the carriage and put the roof and windows up. When they started moving again, Frederick gave his full attention to Anne, who in the privacy of the enclosed interior now felt at liberty to say,

"You are not the only one who has dreamt of this day for almost nine years. The ride to Pinny takes over three hours, and I intend to make sure you uphold your vows as soon as possible."

He chuckled at her boldness.

"And which of my vows did you want to start with, Mrs. Wentworth?" He breathed, pretty sure he knew the answer.

She leaned over and tugged the covers across the windows. Once he adjusted to the dimmed light, he saw the unmistakable desire in her eyes as she placed her hands on his chest and curled her fingers around the lapels of his coat.

"With my body, I thee worship."

And she pulled him in for a fiery, passionate kiss.

THE END

~~END OF STORY~~

A/N: THANK YOU to all the reviewers! I LOVE reading each and every review and am so glad you enjoyed this story.

The landaulette gift was mentioned in passing in the book, so I incorporated it here.