Last chapter about Jane for a while. This story is 60 - 80 K.
Next chapter: Ramsgate.
PPP
Ever since taking up residence in the Gardiners house, Jane Bennet found herself immersed in a contemplative state, pondering over the intricate tapestry of her life, the persons who held a special place in her heart, and particularly, the myriad of occurrences that had transpired in her past. Occasionally, a wistful longing would surface, a yearning for a world where the truth about her birth had remained hidden from her knowledge. Yet, she was cognizant of the futility of attempting to change the past.
With an overwhelming sense of melancholy and profound sorrow, she recalled the heated argument that had transpired between her Aunt Phillips and Mrs. Bennet, an incident that served as a pivotal catalyst for her decision to depart from the confines of Meryton. This revelation brought to light the true nature and detrimental influence of her Aunt Phillips, unveiling a side of her character that she had not wanted to see.
Less than a week prior to that fateful incident, Mr. Jones had confidently asserted that her health was improving, and for the first time, Jane resolved to join the family in the drawing room.
As she descended the stairs, a cacophony of her Aunt Phillips' shrill voice pierced through the partially opened door, "...it is entirely your fault! My sister died because of you, and my poor niece almost met the same fate!" The words hung heavy in the air, each syllable dripping with accusation.
Deeply alarmed, Jane quickened her pace, her heart pounding in her chest, yet she was unable to discern the exact words of the reply. However, her attention was drawn irresistibly when her Aunt Phillips, her voice laced with venomous accusation, declared vehemently, "I am certain beyond doubt that you have forged the legal documents, thereby enabling your daughter to inherit Longbourn, and thus surreptitiously steal what rightfully belongs to my beloved Jane."
"Compose yourself! You are gravely mistaken..."
Mrs. Phillips interrupted her, "This travesty will not persist; I shall ensure justice. Jane is the rightful Heiress of Longbourn. My late sister was Thomas Bennet's first wife, and Jane is his firstborn. No one may believe me, but I am certain that you murdered my poor sister in order to marry her husband!"
Jane gasped, causing the two women to abruptly turn their heads in her direction with startled expressions. Mrs. Bennet vigorously shook her head and passionately asserted, "Jane, I solemnly swear to you, upon my soul, that the accusations she is making are utterly false."
"You are a deceitful wretch! You shamelessly exploited our unfortunate accident close to your father's estate as an opportunity to execute your sinister and cunning plan!"
"No, Maria! You are sorely mistaken. Fanny's demise was a consequence of her frail state and the copious loss of blood she lost during childbirth. If you harbour any doubts, you may seek…"
To Jane's utmost horror, her Aunt Phillips made a sudden and violent lunge at Mrs. Bennet and began to beat her mercilessly. Jane let out a piercing scream, and in an instant, several servants and her sisters rushed into the drawing room, their expressions filled with a mixture of shock and concern.
In the ensuing moments, the scene descended into utter pandemonium, with her Aunt Phillips spiraling into a maelstrom of uncontrolled fury. A hapless footman was compelled to employ extreme measures, resorting to biding her with ropes to prevent a calamitous assault on her mistress. The humiliating spectacle culminated when her deeply mortified Uncle Phillips arrived at Longbourn. With a contrite demeanour, he solemnly pledged to exert greater vigilance in controlling her.
Although Jane remained steadfast in her conviction that her Aunt Phillips' words held no grain of truth, at Mrs. Bennet's persistent urging, Jane found herself compelled to engage in conversation with Mr. Jones, Mr. Carey, and even some of Mr. Carey's servants. Unanimous was their consensus, affirming that childbirth had been the cause of Fanny Bennet's demise.
Soon after, Jane received a letter from the Gardiners, extending an invitation for her to reside with them in London. After taking a few days to carefully consider their offer, she ultimately made the decision to accept it.
Arriving in London, she found the initial weeks daunting, feeling disoriented and hardy knowing the Gardiners. However, with the passage of time, she gradually adjusted to her new life.
The Gardiners were kind and affectionately tender to her, especially her aunt. Mrs. Gardiner was just about ten years her senior; she was refined, the daughter of a minor gentleman, and had earned her complete trust and affection. In numerous ways, she reminded her of Mrs. Bennet.
Her uncle Gardiner, a man of remarkable intellect, held a deep and unwavering love for his family. Each day, he diligently dedicated several hours of his time to the laborious endeavors of his company, situated conveniently just a few blocks from his home.
Her four cousins, two vivacious boys aged eight and four, and two cherubic girls of six and two, exuded sweetness and affection. Jane cherished children, and the mere act of reading stories to the little ones and engaging in playful escapades with them served as a soothing balm for her dispirited soul.
During the first few months she was in mourning, but a few weeks ago, she gradually stated to participate in social gatherings.
Within their social sphere, the Gardiners had an extensive and diverse network of friends and acquaintances. As a well-educated and beautiful young woman, further complemented by a dowry of 7.000 pounds, Jane effortlessly commanded the attention and admiration of some eligible gentlemen. However, her thoughts remained fixated on Mr. Bingley, and she subconsciously found herself making unfavorable comparisons between him and any potential suitor. Despite the rational understanding that she needed to forget him, her heart yearned for him.
Each Thursday, as was customary, she received letters from Longbourn. The letters were typically brimming with affection, and both her sisters and Mrs. Bennet fervently expressed their love. On this particular day, they extended an invitation for her to join them in Ramsgate.