Chapter 10 has been rewritten I think I caught all the mistakes, again thank you Pogonia And Medusa, France doesn't have the same conversation twice at least. I once asked for a beta for this story and got no taker but seriously if anyone would like to volunteer feel free to pm me, especially if you want to Pogonia. Honestly, I am using everyone's comments as my gage and am making edits as I get feed back, I will probably repost this story with a cleaner version.

r1965rd-that was what I was going for, in this chapter I hope to show a bit of Elizabeth her future daughter spirit in this chapter, in that she is very protective of her family.

Everyone else, I am sorry I didn't personally call you out but I really REALLY apricate your feed back, even guest who said the story is boring, at least I know you read it. Please continue, you are helping me make I hope a pretty good story.

Chapter 11

The repercussions of Rachel and Frances's first loves had a profound effect on both young women. Their shared heartache and experiences brought them closer together, transforming their relationship from that of cousins to sisters in all but blood. The bond they forged in the wake of their romantic disappointments provided them with a source of strength and support.

For Thomas, the return to Longborn carried its own set of challenges. When he saw Frances for the first time as a gown woman and not a child, he experienced an instant attraction that took him by surprise. However, the memory of her flirtation with the officers made him swear off pursuing her. He convinced himself that her behavior indicated a frivolous nature, and he was determined to keep his feelings hidden.

The situation became even more complicated when Elizabeth invited me to move back into Longborn, bringing Frances with me. This allowed Mary and Mr. Philip to have the house attached to the law firm to themselves as a married couple. The move was logical and beneficial for everyone, but it placed Thomas and Frances under the same roof, intensifying his internal struggle.

Elizabeth, ever perceptive, noticed her son's discomfort and offered to have us move to the dower cottage. Thomas, however, refused the suggestion. "It's not fair for my sister to not have her mother in the house, she would feel obliged to move as well," he argued. "Besides, the house is big enough for everyone, where the cottage would be a tighter fit."

Frances and I grew even closer after her painful experience with the officers. Understanding the need for her to have proper knowledge and not repeat past mistakes, I decided to impart some 21st-century sex education to her. Unlike the prevailing ideas of the time, which reserved such knowledge for just before marriage or not at all, I believe it was crucial for her to be informed earlier.

We had our conversation one quiet afternoon in the privacy of her room. I explained everything candidly, from the basics of biology to the importance of consent and mutual respect in a relationship, to the aspects of becoming with a child. Frances listened intently, absorbing the information with a mix of curiosity and seriousness.

"Thank you, Mother," she said quietly when I finished. "I feel like I understand so much more now. I swear, I will be careful and won't let anyone take advantage of me again."

With encouragement from Rachel and me, Frances began to redirect her energy into more constructive activities. She started helping with the school and the medial education initiatives we had set up in the village.

Rachel also found a renewed sense of purpose in her community work. She and Frances often worked side by side, teaching children and assisting with the health initiative. Their collaboration brought a new level of energy and enthusiasm to the projects, and the villagers appreciated their dedication.

Thomas, watching from a distance, admired Frances's transformation. She was no longer the reckless girl who had flirted with soldiers but a mature and responsible young woman. His feelings for her, once buried, began to resurface, causing him even more internal conflict.

One evening as the family gathered for dinner, Thomas found himself seated next to Frances. Their conversation flowed naturally, filled with shared memories and new experiences. Elizabeth observed them with a knowing smile, understanding that her son was struggling with his emotions.

"Thomas," she said gently after dinner as they sat together in the drawing room. "You have been carrying a heavy burden since you returned. It is okay to let yourself feel."

Thomas sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I cannot, Mother. Frances deserves better than someone who cannot even sort out his own feelings."

"She is grown into a remarkable young woman," Elizabeth said. "And you have always been a good judge of character. Trust yourself and trust her."

As the months passed, the community health initiative and the school flourished. The villagers, once skeptical of Frances's behavior, began to see her in a new light, appreciating her contributions and dedication. The villagers also benefited from the education and resources provided, and there was a renewed sense of hope and progress in Meryton. The tragedy that had once overshadowed the village was slowly beginning to be replaced by a bright future, thanks to the collective efforts of everyone involved. Through it all, Thomas continued to struggle with his feelings for Frances, fining solace in his work and the support of his family.

Watching Thomas struggled with his feelings for Frances weighted heavily on my mind. I knew that Thomas and Frances were destined to be together; they were, after all, my ancestors. I decided it was time to intervene.

One afternoon, I took Thomas aside and we reminisced about the day he found me, a stranger from the future, and brought me into his world. As we spoke, I hinted that my knowledge of the future gave me insides he needed to trust.

"Thomas," I began gently, "you have always been someone who follows his heart, even when it leads you to unexpected places. Remember when you found me? You did not know who I was, but you trusted your instincts."

He nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "I remember. It was a strange day, but it felt right."

I took a deep breath, preparing to share a bit more. "Since I am from the future, I know things-things that might help you. You need to let yourself love, Thomas. Do not let fear hold you back."

Thomas looked at me thoughtfully. "I will think about it," he said finally, though his eyes betrayed the turmoil within him.

At the next assembly, the Lichfield family arrived with guests. Lord Lichfield, Robert Jr., now 16, home from Eton to Cambridge, had brought a party of friends with him: four gentlemen, twin brothers David and Daniel Davenport, aged 16, Lord Matthew Campbell, aged 16, the second son of the Duke of Argyll, and his older brother Lord John Campbell, Marquess of Kintyre, aged 27.

The twins took an instant liking to Frances with her lively ways, both asking for two sets each to dance with her. They laughed and enjoyed themselves, their light-hearted banter and carefree manner infectious.

Thomas found himself standing near the refreshment table, unable to keep his eyes off Frances as she danced and laughed with the Davenport twins. Their easy camaraderie and shared jokes only deepened his growing somberness.

"So, Miss Gardiner," David Davenport said as they finished a lively reel, "do you always light up the room with your presence, or is it just tonight?"

Frances laughed, her eyes sparkling. "Oh, Mr. Davenport, you flatter me too much. I assure you, I am quite ordinary on most days."

"Impossible," Daniel chimed in. "I can hardly believe it. You have a way of making everything seem more... vibrant."

Frances blushed slightly, glancing over to where Thomas stood, his expression unreadable. "You are both too kind. But tell me, what do you enjoy doing when you are not dazzling ladies at assemblies?"

David grinned. "Well, we do have our studies, but Daniel and I are rather fond of riding. There's nothing quite like the freedom of galloping across the countryside."

"Indeed," Daniel agreed. "And we've been known to indulge in a bit of fencing. Keeps one sharp, you know."

Frances's laughter rang out again, drawing the attention of more than one gentleman in the room. "I should like to try fencing one day. It sounds exhilarating."

Thomas clenched his fists, trying to focus on the conversation around him, but his attention kept drifting back to Frances. He felt a pang of jealousy as he watched the twins' animated conversation with her. They seemed so at ease, so confident, and it only served to highlight his own insecurities.

As the dance ended and the twins escorted Frances back to the edge of the room, Matthew Campbell approached her with a charming smile. "Miss Gardiner, may I have the honor of this dance?"

Frances curtsied gracefully. "Of course, Lord Matthew. It would be my pleasure."

As they took to the floor, Thomas felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned to see Elizabeth, her eyes filled with understanding. "You are torturing yourself, Thomas. Speak to her."

He shook his head, feeling the weight of his emotions. "I cannot, Mother. She is happy, and I do not wish to burden her with my feelings."

Elizabeth sighed, her expression softening. "You are a good man, Thomas. But sometimes, the heart must take risks. Do not let fear keep you from your happiness."

Thomas watched as Frances danced with Matthew, her laughter and joy filling the room. He knew his mother was right, but the thought of laying his heart bare terrified him.

Meanwhile, John Campbell approached Rachel Bennet, who had been standing to the side, watching the festivities. "Miss Bennet, would you do me the honor of a dance?"

Rachel smiled, accepting his hand. "I would be delighted, Lord John."

After their dance John led Rachel back to her party and headed to the drink table there, he ran into his brother Matthew.

Matthew teased his older brother. "Always dancing with wallflowers, John, just because you know they can never have expectations. No decent man would want them and certainly not a future duke."

John chuckled, not denying the accusation. "Perhaps, but they often make the best company so I can fulfill my obligations without expectations."

Rachel overhearing this part of the conversation left to the retiring room, she did not know that, Frances had also overhearing the conversation. She on the other hand felt a surge of protectiveness for Rachel, though she did not see her leave or she would have follow. Instead she boldly stepped in. "My cousin Rachel is not a wallflower," she said firmly. "She is one of the most wonderful and capable women I know."

John looked surprised and impressed by Frances's defense. "I meant no offense, Miss Gardiner. Your cousin is indeed remarkable."

Frances smiled, pleased with her cousin's support. "Thank you, Lord John. I just wanted to ensure she receives the respect she deserves."

Later in the evening, Thomas found himself on the terrace, seeking solace in the cool night air. The stars twinkled above, and he closed his eyes, trying to calm his racing thoughts.

"Thomas?"

He turned to see Frances standing there, her eyes filled with concern. "Are you all right? You seemed troubled."

He forced a smile. "I am fine, Frances. Just needed a moment to think."

She stepped closer, her gaze searching his. "You have been distant lately. Is something wrong?"

"Frances," he began, his voice hesitant, "you have changed so much since we last saw each other."

She turned to him, her expression softening. "I had to, Thomas. Life has a way of teaching us lessons we did not expect."

He nodded, feeling the weight of his unresolved emotions. "You have become an incredible woman, Frances. I admire you greatly."

Her smile was warm and genuine. "Thank you, Thomas. That means a lot coming from you."

As they stood there, the tension between them palpable, Elizabeth's words echoed in Thomas's mind: "Trust yourself and trust her." He knew he had to confront his feelings, but the fear of rejection still loomed large.

For now, they would take it one step at a time, finding solace in their growing friendship and the shared memories of their past. And as the night drew on, the future held a glimmer of hope for what might be, if only they could find the courage to embrace it.