Pride and Prejudice 00 General Regency AU

Best Laid Plans Go Awry

Previously:

One lone man in a chair watched from the window having second thoughts on what errand his son was now on, but did not dwell on those for the alternative -to him -was not a real option.

Another Offer Accepted

Ch. 6

The Wilton greeted Anne, Charlotte, and the Greens with its distinctive charm. As they entered, the high-pitched clinking of fine China and the soft hum of polite conversation enveloped them. The rich aromas of roasted meats and freshly baked bread wafted through the air, mingling with the subtle scent of the sea, harking back to the restaurant's heritage as a renowned fishmonger.

The dining area presented a tableau of elegance, with pristine white tablecloths cascading over the tables, gleaming silverware arranged meticulously, and candles flickering in their lustrous holders, casting a cozy illumination upon the patrons. Portraits of seafaring vessels adorned the walls, a nod to the restaurant's proximity to the vibrant port, where ships brimming with exotic wares spoke of the intrepid nature of those who navigated the maritime routes.

Mr. Green's voice pierced Anne's reverie, "I propose we share one final meal together before my wife and I embark for America." His suggestion received unanimous consent as a waiter, clad in immaculate attire, guided them to their table with a balletic grace that married efficiency with subtlety.

Charlotte momentarily excused herself, and in her absence, Mr. Green leaned forward, his voice a hushed, sincere murmur. "Miss Anne, it is imperative you persuade Miss Charlotte to correspond with her family. I am well acquainted with Sir Lucas, and I am persuaded he and his spouse spoke in haste. It is unfathomable to me that they were earnest."

Anne's response was equally subdued, a gentle whisper lost among the ambient sounds of the dining crowd. "Rest assured good Sir, I share your belief. The shock we experienced in the attic was profound, and the prevailing thought was that accompanying me might afford her the respite needed to compose herself. It may grant Miss Charlotte the opportunity to view the situation from a fresh perspective. And indeed, I spoke truthfully; Mrs. Smith is in need of a governess."

Mrs. Green's concern was felt, though no physical contact was made, as she inquired, "Has your companion reconsidered her decision?"

"Regrettably, no," Anne exhaled, her eyes lifting to the ornate ceiling as though in search of guidance. "As you have witnessed, the most I could persuade her to accept was the position with Mrs. Smith. Fortunately, the lady resides in Penrith. Upon my return from London, I aspire to confer with the Lucases to ascertain the sincerity of their declarations."

Their dialogue was suspended as Charlotte rejoined them, her smile a rehearsed arc that scarcely concealed the turmoil behind her gaze. They resumed their seats, the lively atmosphere of the restaurant providing a soothing canvas for their collective repast, a fleeting interlude of fellowship before they embarked on their separate paths.

"Who shall chaperone us now?" Charlotte inquired as the couple made their way to board their ship.

"Mr. Green's brother and his wife," Anne indicated a couple approaching them. "They share the same father but have different mothers, which explains his red hair."

"I am delighted we shall not have to journey alone," a younger Mrs. Green remarked as she ascended into the carriage with Anne and Charlotte. "The prospect of traveling to Penrith unaccompanied was daunting, or…" She let out a light giggle. "Perhaps it is more accurate to say I found it so."

"My wife speaks the truth. And, to be honest, I might have shared her reservations. There is indeed safety in numbers." He then posed the question of whether they would object to a young Ensign joining their travel. Anne expressed no concern, but Charlotte hesitated, having heard tales of George Wickham. Though not in a position to protest, she acquiesced, stipulating that her name remain unmentioned. She then discreetly lifted her hood, concealing her visage.

"If his presence causes you discomfort, we need not permit him to join us," Mr. Green voiced his unease about the company they kept, particularly when Charlotte confessed her preference for the gentleman's absence. Yet, when Anne sought an explanation, Charlotte offered none.

"I apologize, Ensign," Mr. Green announced. "Our arrangements have altered; you must seek alternative transportation."

Charlotte breathed a sigh of relief internally. George Wickham was a man she had not formally met but had observed at a social gathering, his flirtatious demeanor leaving a lasting impression. His indiscriminate attentions, regardless of age or status, seemed to her nothing more than sport. She had no desire to engage with him then, nor now, hence her instinctive aversion.

The journey resumed, the winding roads now a familiar presence. The Greens and Anne carried the bulk of the conversation, while Charlotte immersed herself in reading, delving into the customs of England and Scotland alike. Considering her potential proximity to the border, it seemed prudent to acquaint herself with the neighboring culture and history. Perhaps Mrs. Smith would wish her children to be versed in Scottish traditions, and Charlotte deemed it wise to be prepared.

As time elapsed, Charlotte remained absorbed in her literature, oblivious to Anne's dialogue with their companions. Titles such as "The Lady's, Housewife's, and Cook maid's Assistant" captivated her, though others might deem them tedious.

"Charlotte… Charlotte," Anne whispered, gently nudging her friend as their carriage halted for the evening. "Should you prefer not to slumber within the carriage, I advise you to set aside your reading."

Charlotte accompanied Anne and the others into an inn where a hushed atmosphere prevailed, the soft murmur of fatigued travelers filling the space. Waitstaff moved through the room with adept precision, attending to the needs of the patrons. As the four settled at a table, an elderly lady approached them, her presence adding to the tapestry of the evening's encounters. "Miss Anne de borough?" The lady looked straight at Anne.

"Yes? Do I know you?"

"I am Lady Smith, Mrs. Smith's mother. I was hoping, if this is Miss Lucas, she would not mind a change of plans." When inquired about the nature of these changes, the elderly lady offered a warm smile. "My daughter has chosen to appoint her niece as governess for her children; however, with my husband's passing, I find myself in need of a companion. I am well-provided for and can offer ample pay to Miss Charlotte. I would be grateful if she could accompany me this evening for supper at my residence, situated not far from my niece and other relations. She would have the opportunity to correspond with you at her leisure."

"I would be honored to serve as your companion," Miss Charlotte responded, her smile reflecting dual sentiments. Firstly, despite her affection and gratitude towards Anne, she harbored reservations regarding Mrs. Green. Secondly, an urgent inclination to depart the inn swiftly was compelling her. Turning to Anne, Charlotte expressed her deep appreciation for all the assistance rendered and voiced her hope that Anne would understand.

Anne found no grounds for objection, thus refrained from dissent. Nevertheless, as she observed Miss Charlotte collect her belongings and exit the threshold, a chill coursed through her. It felt as though her friend had departed from her life, perhaps not permanently, but certainly for an extended duration. This sentiment perplexed her, for it was well-known that the Smiths maintained their staff within their close-knit community of relations.

*Wilton...according to my research was fishmongers in 1742 and evolved into a restaurant. The exact year it did not tell me, but I figured if it had been around that long; I figured it would be fine to put in the story.