A/N -
I am back with my 2nd idea. It's still half baked, but since its a bit different, I wanted to get these 2 chapters out there and see if it's even something people would be interested in reading.
I warn now - it will take me a while to update. But when I do, most of it will have been written (if there is interest).
Prologue
He stood over the grave, shoulders bowed.
Theirs had been a marriage of convenience. She had begged him to take her away from her tormentor. To safeguard her from the one person whose every action tortured the girl she was obligated to nurture.
When he and his sister had returned from extensive traveling, the sight of her had shocked and appalled.
At the very first opportunity for them to speak privately she revealed all to him. Her mother was deranged and cruel. The older woman blamed her daughter for any perceived insult, but most especially for not securing Pemberley. Dosed with one concoction after another, her death loomed ever closer; she was sure of it.
Life at Pemberley refreshed her and she grew stronger in body and spirit. It was her choice to try for an heir, even though the doctors advised against it. She finally wore down his defenses.
"I wish to give you an heir, husband. Even if I should die in the attempt."
"And if the babe should perish as well?"
"I am stronger now. I believe all will be well."
This was now the result.
She might have had a chance at surviving the birth, if an illness had not struck her down just as she began her confinement.
Her system was so compromised by the potions and bleedings over the years, it had no defense against a virulent flu which settled in her lungs and then weakened her heart.
Going into early labor, she did not have enough strength to push. His child, a daughter, never even breathed one breath.
He turned and walked away from the graves, placing his hat on his head.
The breeze danced fallen leaves around his ankles and they caught against the fresh tombstones announcing their new tenants.
Here lies Anne de Bough Darcy and baby girl Darcy.
Gone too soon, may they find peace in heaven.