Sorry that this was later that I said. Things took an unexpected turn in the middle of last week. I want to get a little serious for a moment. For the second time in three years, a dear family I know has lost a precious member of their family to depression and suicide. Depression is no joke. If you suffer from this, I beg and plead, seek help. If you have a family member or friend who suffers from depression, reach out to them. You don't know the difference you may make. Now, about this chapter, I had originally planned for it to be multiple letters from multiple characters, but that wasn't coming together. There are letters, but they are only between two people. I hope you enjoy this chapter. Sorry that I opened this on such a note, but it is something I felt I had to address.

Kate looked around her old bedroom. They had finally made it back to Longbourn, and what a pleasant trip it was. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet had left London three days before the rest, so, for the first time in a long while, the Bennet sisters made the journey together. It was not without its heartaches, however. Kate and Georgiana had a tearful goodbye, and Lizzy was a bit sad at having to take a reprieve from Mr. Darcy's society. But, here she now stood, allowing old memories to flood her mind. Everything now was so different, and she wouldn't change a moment of it.

Marianne was only staying a few days. She thought that Kate might enjoy some time alone with her family, but everyone knew the truth of it: she was ready to put some distance between Fanny and herself. The two had managed to behave around each other for the past several months, but it could only last so long. So, Marianne was off the Liverpool to stay with a friend, and then off to who knows where. The Season had given Marianne the push she needed to join back with Society, and she had many old friends she wished to have back. She would return in time for Jane's wedding, and would stay through to the birth of her brother's newest child.

Mrs. Whitmore had remained in Town to spend some time with her daughters and grandchildren. Kate was not alone, though. Her maid, Claudia, had decided to remain with her. She was very glad for this. There was no doubt in anyone's mind that Mrs. Bennet would have her house in an uproar soon. Claudia was determined to make herself available to Miss Westfield and her sisters only, leaving Mrs. Bennet's own servants at her call. Kate directed Claudia as to where she would like her things, and then made her way down into her mother's favorite sitting room.

Everyone was gathered, listening to Mrs. Bennet share a little of the neighborhoods news. Kate entered and took a seat next to Lydia.

"Mrs. Phillips assures me that no one had wished us ill will and all hope that Longbourn will finally have an heir. They were none too pleased with Mr. Collins. They found him a rather irritable man. Oh, and we are to have the Lucas' to dine tonight. Lizzy, Charlotte is quite looking forward to seeing you. She said that you have some extra explaining to do. Whatever have you been writing her, dear?"

"Nothing of consequence, Mama," replied Lizzy, blushing.

"Nothing indeed," mumbled Mr. Bennet. "So, tell me, how did you leave our friends in Town? I am sure I shall not receive any reports of one of you having made a spectacle of yourselves?"

"No, Papa," answered Kate. "Though we were sad to leave each other, Georgiana is excited to see her home again, and Mrs. Annesley is a very sweet woman. She and Mr. Darcy shall arrive at Netherfield a few days before my birthday and will stay through to the autumn. Our separation shall not be a long one."

"And you shall both be writing one another nonstop as well, I suppose. What of you, Lizzy? Does your heart pain you with your separation from Mr. Darcy?"

"Papa!" exclaimed Lizzy.

"No worries, my dear. I would not be surprised should we find them arrive sooner than expected. Now, if you ladies will excuse me, I have not yet fully reacquainted myself with my bookroom."

Marianne was amused at her brother's antics. "Well, I believe he is only teasing you….. and possible easing himself into the inevitable."

"What's inevitable?" asked Lizzy. Marianne just smirk and changed the subject.

"I believe I am not going to know what to do with myself, Kate. You have been with me constantly for the last two years."

"I know! When I was up in my old room, I reflected on the fact that things are so much more different than they were, the last time I resided there. I also am aware that it is temporary. I forgot how lovely Longbourn truly is."

"Well, I will try and be back by your birthday, but I make no promises. I will be here, for sure, before Jane weds."

"While I am sure Kit-, um Kate shall miss you immensely, she shall not be lacking while you are gone. She shall be quite occupied with the neighborhood. Many of our neighbors have missed her so. Lady Lucas has told me that Mariah can hardly contain herself over her excitement of having her friend back in the neighborhood, though it will be only until sometime after the new baby arrives."

"I thank you, Fanny, for putting my mind at ease. I believe I shall rest a bit, before dinner."

"I shall see you there myself. Excuse us girls."

The Bennet sisters watched the matrons leave, wondering if they should interfere or let things play out as they should.

"Here is your room. Same as they last time you visited."

"Thank you, Fanny. However, I am certain there was another reason for your escorting me?"

Fanny came into the room and shut the door. "Yes, there is. You and I have never got on. I know you always believed your brother deserved someone better than I, and that I have, at times, been a trying person, but I wanted to take the time to thank you."

"To thank me?"

"Yes, to thank you. In the past couple of years, you have done a lot for my girls, and it has made our home a happier place. I cannot say that we shall ever be friends, but I believe we have both proved over the last few months, that we can be rather civil, and I would like to continue in that way."

"Is this the pregnancy talking?"

"Perhaps," chuckled Fanny, "but, in any case, I assure you I am quite serious."

"Then I accept your thanks. Oh, and Fanny," she said, as her sister in law opened the door.

"Yes?"

"Your daughters are truly wonderful, and they would not be who they are, if you had not been involved in some way."

Fanny smiled softly before leaving the room. Once the door was closed, the house rang with Mrs. Bennet's shrill voice, calling for Mrs. Hill.

Dinner that evening was very good for everyone. The Lucas's were, undoubtedly, the Bennet's favorite family in the whole of the neighborhood. Mariah was, indeed, very happy to see Kate, though they did not have much time to chat until after dinner.

"I still can't believe it, sometimes. You and you sisters are so different. I wish I had a family member who wanted to adopt me."

"It hasn't all been pleasant, Mariah. I spent more than a year working on accomplishments. We rarely got out to do anything. Bath is positively wonderful though. Not quite so overwhelming as London, but still very large and lively."

"So, how was your Season in Town? Was it everything we always dreamed it would be?"

"No, it wasn't. I can't say that I would want another. It is so different from the assemblies in Meryton. Here, we are all neighbors and generally know each other well and can be open with one another. It's not like that in Town. I mean, yes, every mother wants to have one over on all the others, but it is so much worse there. You have to watch your every step and word. Even the slightest wrong can be detrimental to your reputation and chances."

"Really?"

"Don't get me wrong, they are enjoyable, especially in the right company, but they are also very stressful. I don't know what I would have done without my family and Lord and Lady Matlock."

"Those are the Colonel's parents, right?"

"Yes, and they simply adore Kate!" broke in Lydia.

"So they approve of her, then?"

"Of course they do. They're as wrapped around her finger as the Colonel himself!"

"Lydia! That is simply not true!"

"Oh, my dear, dear Kate. Naivety does not look well on you. Everyone can see it. Lady Julia is chomping at the bit to have you in her family. Well, you and Lizzy."

"How does Lizzy play into this?" asked Mariah.

Lizzy answered before Lydia could. "I believe that is enough on this subject for now. Lydia, remember, one day it will be your turn."

Lizzy and Charlotte sat down with their younger sisters and turned the conversation to some of the balls the elder Bennet sisters attended. Before too long, the Lucas family took their leave.

Dear Kate,

I miss you terribly. Mrs. Annesley is a very pleasant companion, but I long for the livelier times we had together. I can't say I regret coming home to Pemberly, though. The gardens are already beginning to bloom and Mrs. Reynolds was almost in tears when we arrived. We had both been away from Pemberly too long. The staff has been positively spoiling us.

Fitzwilliam has not been himself. One moment, I come upon him just staring off into who knows what, with his correspondence hardly touched, the next, he is working like a mad man. He made himself make the rounds to all of our tenants today. He usually takes two days to this. I would be concerned if I did not know what it was that ails him. I have a feeling we shall be making our way to Netherfield before we originally planned. Mrs. Reynolds is on to him, as well. She asked me about you, and I made sure to steer the conversation in the direction of your family. She was very eager to hear about your family, especially your sisters.

I received another letter from Richard this morning. I believe he is far more relaxed now that you have left London. Fitzwilliam chided me for telling him about Mr. Tucker's pursuit of you. I still find it hilarious. I wish I could have seen his response in person. Things are still going well for him at the camp, but he is very bored. His replacement, Colonel Rogers, has things well in hand, so there is little for him to do. He says he know spends most of his time improving his holdings and helping Anne. She has officially left Rosings. Aunt Catherine is furious. She has refused to relinquish her hold on the estate, so Richard and my uncle have secured Anne an attorney. She is still residing with Olivia. I hope things do not turn nasty, but Fitzwilliam is almost sure they will. It should be quick though. Aunt Catherine really doesn't stand a chance.

My brother continues to spoil me. After we refreshed ourselves from our trip, Fitzwilliam brought me to the music room to unveil the new piano forte he had commissioned for me. If I could, I would have it moved with me, wherever I go. Can't you just imagine it? What a sight I would make!

I wish had had more to write, but I am afraid all things are quite dull for my family and myself. I can't wait to hear about how things are going for you in Hertfordshire.

Sincerely,

Georgie

Georgie,

I miss you so much. I cannot tell you how many times I have turned to tell you something, only to realize you are not there. I am so pleased that you are enjoying your time at home, though. Papa believes you shall arrive sooner than expected, as well. I wish you could have seen Lizzy's blush when he proclaimed that. Your brother is always so in control, I am having a hard time imagining him as you described. It must truly be a sight to behold. I shall be sure to inquire of my sisters, to see what they think of this development.

I am glad you found Mr. Tucker so amusing. I assure you, I did not. The man is such a bother. I did all I could to discourage him, but come out and tell him. It made Jane's heart sing to see him warn the man away. I am still almost afraid that he will show up here. Poor Anne. I know she is happy to be out from under her mother, but how can Lady Catherine treat her so? A mother should care more about her child's wellbeing that how her home is trimmed.

I will admit this only to you, though I know my sisters know. I miss Richard. I got so used to him being around those months in Town, that now, it feels like there is a hole in my life. I daren't tell anyone else because I do not desire for them to see me as so lovesick, young woman. I had planned to give a merry chase, as my Aunt Mari did, but I find myself too eager to be caught by him. We talked often of our dreams and desires. I find mine have changed quite a bit since this winter. I have no plans to try and encourage your cousin to move faster, it's just overwhelming to see Jane's happiness, and the joy that Mama is experiencing right now. I want it all for myself, as well. I know you sneak tidbits to him, but I ask that you use discretion. I fear I may run him off. He wants so badly to establish himself as a gentleman first. He already is one, but he wants more to offer than his name and connections. He wants for no man to say that he cares only for my wealth. I don't care what others would say, but I will respect his wishes.

Things here in Hertfordshire are both different and yet the same. I am not the same as I was, yet our neighbors seem determined to put me back in the box I have climbed out of. It never bothered me before to be called Kitty, but now, I find it so tiresome. Kitty was uncultured and uncouth. She had no structure. They accept the changes in all of my sisters, and it just annoys me to no end that they cannot accept my own changes. Aunt Mari says it is because they witnessed the changes in my sister. I have been gone for over two years. In any case, it is pleasant to see my mother and sisters correct them when they use my old nickname.

Mama has certainly been a surprise. She and my Aunt got along swimmingly, before she took her leave of us. I almost wish I had gone with her, but this will be good for her. She alienated herself for far too long. Mama has curved her shrillness since being home. I guess it really started at Carter House, but we just didn't see it. Don't get me wrong, she can still cause quite the fuss, and the servants are constantly scurrying about, doing her bidding, but it is just different. You will see, when you arrive. Now that I think of it, Jane's wedding will be ever closer and she might be as she ever was! We shall have to wait and see.

I have enjoyed sharing a room with Lydia again. It is completely different from before. She still goes through my things, but she asked first now, and returns my items in the condition she borrows them. My sisters and I make sure that we spend at least an hour together, every day. This is truly the last time things will be this way. It is not like when I moved away with Aunt Mari. Jane is getting married and starting her own family. Lizzy and I will not be too long in following, and perhaps Mary too. I believe it is possible that she has grown fond of a certain doctor.

That reminds me, Mr. Williams and Dr. Anderson will be joining the neighborhood sooner than expected. My uncle, who is the attorney handling Purvis Lodge, sent out a letter informing them that the house is now ready for occupancy, and my aunt, Mrs. Phillips, found their acceptance letter on the desk. Mary and I both chided her for being so nosey and then spreading the gossip. That wouldn't be good for my uncle's reputation, but the news is nice. I look forward to meeting Miss Amelia Williams. Her father has talked about her so much. Anyway, they shall arrive at the end of next week. Mary had gone to help Dr. Jones yesterday, and he told her he hopes to convince Dr. Anderson to serve in the area. He is getting on in years and he would like to see the people he has treated for so many years, continue to be taken care of. I can't imagine Hertfordshire without him.

My old friend, Mariah, is the same as she ever was. I have taken to instructing her where I can, and it is a help. She is about your age, but you wouldn't know it. She acts younger than Lydia. Charlotte has tried to curb her tendencies in the past, and she is happy for my help. Mariah has improved a good deal, though we will not say that to her or her mother. Lady Lucas always takes offence to things, and is a bit unhappy that Jane is marrying before Charlotte, and so well, too.

Well, I have nothing more to add at the moment. Give your brother our regards, and maybe tell him he isn't the only one who will not sit still. I hope to hear from you soon.

Kate

Kate,

I have officially grown tired of being here. There is not much to do, and I am still very used to your company. The ladies in the neighborhood have gotten so annoying. They have been trying to use me to get to my brother. I despise being used in such a manner. Also, because I am now sixteen, and closer to my coming out, there are gentlemen who have been making their interest in me known. I can't do this, Kate. I am so sorry for teasing you about Mr. Tucker and the young men chasing you in Hertfordshire. It is utterly ridiculous. My brother has had it circulated that we have both come down with summer colds and that we are recovering slowly. We shall, indeed be in Hertfordshire for your birthday. Only three weeks now.

Now, I do not want to get your hopes up, and I have in no way betrayed your trust. That being said, I believe Richard feels very much the same as you do. He hasn't come right out and said it, but he talked a bit about Colonel Rogers and his family. He has a son, and his wife has just given him a daughter. Richard spends a great deal of time with them. He simply adores the children. He will be officially retired from his post in just under a month. Fitzwilliam had planned for us to be at the ceremony, but Richard doesn't want us to bother. As soon as they release him, he is heading straight for Netherfield. My Aunt Julia is planning to host her own celebration for him after your sister weds. Be on the lookout for the invite. She assumes that neither of your parents would be willing to come, considering your mothers current condition, so is going to ask if you and your sisters would like to stay with them. I thought you may like to have an early warning. Richard and Fitzwilliam will be staying at our Town home, so your parents need not worry about the propriety. She realizes you have relatives in Town, but she has grown fond of you all, and would like to have you close.

Has Miss Bingley's attitude changed concerning her brother's marriage? I still can't believe she made a scene in front of your family like that. Jane is truly a saint for asking him not to send her away immediately. I won't lie to you, my dear friend, my brother and I would not be upset to find that she is not in residence. Especially my brother. Everyone can see how he regards your sister, and her foolish attempts to monopolize his attentions are so very tiresome. Mrs. Hurst has been smart enough to accept it, though, I have been told Miss Bingley was always the more spoiled of the siblings. She does not take well to being denied. My brother has told me that she has had some good prospects in the past, but she allowed them to slip through her grasps, hoping for something he assures me is unattainable to her. She makes me so mad, but I can't help but feel pity for her.

Anne has a beau! He is the third son to a Mr. Montgomery, in my cousin's neighborhood. He has been overseas for the last several years. All I know of him is that he was the first-mate of a battleship, and an injury caused him to have an honorable discharge. Olivia says they were quite enamored with each other upon first sight! Since her attorney won her case a few weeks back, she has been kept her dwelling with our cousin, letting my uncle go through Rosings to see what might be sold to help the financial status of the estate. Aunt Catherine is still not talking to anyone. I believe she likes to think that she has taken to the dowager house with dignity, but I am sure you can discern the truth. Your cousin, Mr. Collins, and his wife have been taking their ministerial duties more seriously. Anne wrote and informed him that if the parish is not properly tended to, she will find someone who will see it done. I have been told that he stress heavily over your mothers condition.

Well, I shall see you soon. I do not doubt that you shall have another letter off to me in no time at all, but I cannot guarantee that I shall be able to get another to you before we set out for Netherfield. I shall see you in a few weeks.

Georgie

Georgie,

I am so happy that you will be here for my birthday! Mama and Jane have arranged a party, not large nor small. I was excited to have you and Mr. Darcy officially added to the guest list. It shall be so much fun! Thank you for the advanced warning. I can tell you that Papa has given his permission for us to attend and to stay with your aunt. Aunt Mari has ordered some more work done on Carter House, so it is unavailable. Also, my Uncle and Aunt Gardiner are taking a trip after Jane's wedding. The children will be staying here at Longbourn. So, her offer has actually been perfect!

Does Anne know when she will once more reside at Rosings? I am so glad that she has a beau. I wonder what your aunt thinks of that. You did not say in your last letter, but then, perhaps she does not know of this development. I look forward to meeting your cousin Anne. It seems so strange to be attached to someone I have never met in person.

You shall have some opportunity to meet some of the gentlemen who have decided I must be one of theirs. I would not object to you bringing up Richard every chance you get. Mrs. Blakely says it is unseemly to for me to mention a gentlemen I am enamored with, but my friends and family may. I would greatly appreciate it, and I will return the gesture when your time comes.

I wish Richard would be able to make it, but it makes my heart flutter to know he will be near soon, regardless. I look forward to celebrating his new direction in life. I was thinking about it the other day, and you know how I got used to seeing him almost every day? I realized that since we met last summer, not two weeks would go by before he was back at Dylan for a few days. I no longer wonder why these last three months have been so hard. Your letter made me blush. It warms my heart to think that he may share my thoughts. Still, I shall let him lead. I do want to figure out a way to let him know we are now only waiting for him. That doesn't mean I want you to do it, Georgie, so please, I ask once more for your discretion.

Unfortunately, Miss Bingley still resides at Netherfield. She has apologized, and officially we have forgiven her, but I have not been quick to forget, and neither has Lizzy or Lydia. We are constantly on our guard around her. You two should be on your guard too. She is up to something. Mr. and Mrs. Hurst shall be arriving soon. It seems that all our houses shall be full for the wedding. Send a quick note to let me know when you will be arriving.

Kate

Next up, the Darcy's arrive, a birthday party, and whatever else I manage to slip in.