Tea was taken in the study as there were no callers just yet. Wentworth and Anne sat together, quiet in thought. How wonderful she felt to be a married woman. While she could have dwelled on the eight years she and Wentworth would never regain, Anne was focused positively on the future. She longed for a child, knowing it would bring her and Frederick untold joy. "What a loving and considerate father he will be" she thought to herself.
Frederick's thoughts were of the honeymoon plans. He had seen much of the world during his time with the Navy. and wanted to share his love of travel with Anne. How interested she would be in the cultural differences across countries, in the art, music and landscapes of the continent. Over three months he could show her the most cultured cities: Paris, Milan, Venice, Rome, Vienna, Berlin, and Amsterdam. But would three months be too long a journey for Anne? Perhaps just Paris, Luxembourg and Amsterdam?
There would be other opportunities for travel. While he wanted to show Anne the world, his priority was providing a relaxed opportunity for greater intimacy rather than a stressful journey over rough and sometimes dangerous terrain. And while he knew himself easily capable of three months abroad, Anne would miss Kellynch Hall and her family and friends. As much as Frederick enjoyed travelling, now was also time for settling down and establishing himself as a respected individual among the locals. He would plan to stay a month, to take care of the necessary details and receive the neighbourhood, family and friends. Edward, his elder brother, would pay a visit from Shropshire. Louisa and Benwick would likely visit while they stayed at Uppercross. He should invite Mrs Smith and her nurse to Kellynch as a surprise for Anne.
Anne quietly yawned, stirring Frederick from his schemes. "My apologies husband, I find myself a bit tired just now, would you pass the tea?"
Frederick poured her a second cup with a smile on his face. "I too am tired, shall we ask cook for an early dinner and retire earlier tonight?"
"If she can manage, that would suit me well." As Anne replied, her cheeks reddened slightly. Frederick took her hand in a silent gesture of understanding.
Another moment of silence passed until Marriott, the butler, entered carrying mail. "Excuse me, Mrs Wentworth, a letter has arrived from the Musgroves, their servant waits in the lower hall for your reply."
Anne opened and shared the news with her dear husband. "We are invited for dinner following church on Sunday. The Crofts and Lady Russell are invited and Louisa and Benwick will remain in town until Tuesday at least."
"How delightful!" replied Frederick. His thoughts drifted back towards Mrs Smith. He would secretly invite her and her Mrs Rooke to come for a visit. Perhaps they could arrive by Saturday? He knew this thoughtful, if cunning action would please his beloved. I must inform the Maarriott to discretly prepare for their arrival.
Anne, already preparing a written response, was unaware that Frederick's thoughts had drifted off. She finished the note, and handed it to the butler. "Darling, I have some correspondence I must see to myself." Wentworth said, chastily kissing her cheek. If this weather holds, shall we have some wine in the courtyard before dinner?
"A splendid idea." I'm off to inform Mrs Bates of our plans for sunday and confirm the plans for receiving our visitors. She looked Frederick in the eyes, her own fine eyes radiating joy, and went off.