Jump to new as of April 28, 2002
Jump to new as of May 8, 2002
Jump to new as of May 20, 2002
When any two young people take it into their heads to marry they are pretty sure by perseverance to carry off their point, be they ever so poor or imprudent or ever so likely to be necessary to each other's ultimate comfort. This may be bad morality to start with but I believe it to be truth and if such parties succeeded, how should a Captain Frederick Wentworth and a Dr. Anne Elliot with the advantage of maturity of mind, consciousness of right and the independence of two settled careers between them, fail of bearing down every opposition? They might in fact have borne down a great deal more than they met with, for there was little to distress them beyond the want of graciousness and warmth. Yet declaring their intention to marry could not, in such an age as this, settle the point. They must have one more obstacle to pass through and it is no small feat. This couple who laboured so long unaided, nearly lost their chance at happiness, still had to plan a wedding. Beset on all sides with expectations and presumptuous intrusions, the wedding itself might be enough to separate them from each other or those they loved.
Sunlight is the greatest compliment to the beauty of a married woman. Louisa typed notes as the presentations droned on. Pausing momentarily, she caught a glimpse of her engagement ring, its diamond solitaire glinting in the morning light streaming through the window. A whimsical smile came to her face as she once again noted she was married. That ring, the consummate symbol of the married woman, weighed on her hand pleasantly.
Meeting Anne for a tasting lunch, Louisa pestered her for all the wedding minutiae. A good-natured gossip Louisa Benwick loved to be in the know and having eloped only a few months ago, she had no wedding plans of her own to reminisce about. It did not hurt that she was more than curious to see how Anne was getting along with a former beau. Not that Louisa was jealous. Still a bride, the girl was deliriously happy. Her family teased that her face must be tired from months of endless smiling. Since her midnight excursion, Louisa had not had one moment of regret and it showed.
"I suppose I have to pick out a ring. I don't know when Fred will find the time to go with me," sighed Anne.
"Don't sound too excited," laughed her Louisa as she speared a goat cheese tart with relish.
"I don't need one. No offence but it seems like a waste of money to me."
"I suppose, but it is tradition." Anne nodded but said nothing more as she continued to review the book of wedding cakes, with Louisa giving her opinion on every dish that passed before them. This whole thing was getting out of hand, Anne reflected. All she wanted was to be with Fred. To share a home with him and become a family. After all they had been through, it seemed silly to make a big production out of such a simple desire. Even her supposedly small family affair was far more expensive and arduous than she had anticipated. She could of course just do it and get it over with, but her whole family was enjoying themselves and she could not spoil their expectations. She would have to play the blushing bride as ridiculous as that was a woman of her age. Anne's sister had already picked out a selection of the most fashionable wedding gowns. Apparently an Elliot could not be married in anything but a Vera Wang. More money spent on frivolous matters that could be put to better use. "But an Elliot could not down the aisle in rags." Elizabeth had said. As though, her ordinary clothes were somehow disgraceful. Anne sniffed at the notion. It was that attitude that had brought her family to the brink of ruin and now she was supporting it through her silent compliance. Though she loved her sisters they could be insufferably narrow minded and short sighted. "Perhaps I can get Henrietta to make my dress." Anne suggested.
"Oh I'm sure Henri would love to," agreed Louisa with a warm partiality for the talents of her sister. "You'll be the most beautiful bride ever." Anne's chief concern was Henrietta could do this without much expense to either party. The idea Charles and Henrietta Hayter would have to spend what little they had on a gift for herself and Frederick in order to maintain some pride was disturbing. So many gifts had been sent after the announcement, that it was now impossible to ban them altogether. The wedding machine was on a roll and there was no stopping it.
Dame Katherine Russell swept into the Elliot living room laying several packages on the table and an attack on Anne. "You must make a final decision on your colours."
"Oh. What do you think?" she sighed. Yet another ridiculous custom. She didn't care what colour the tablecloths or ribbons were. She should have left this to Mary. Mary loved doing such things.
"Well pink is always classic, but considering it is so late in the season I wonder if that is anticipating too much."
"How about blue?" Anne asked holding up a random ribbon of blue.
"That is far too bright dearest. It would overwhelm you and everyone. One can never get flowers to match such a vibrant blue."
"Oh Katherine I'm no good at this. Why don't you just choose? I am sure what ever you pick will be lovely."
"Have you decided on your dress colour? It matters as to the choice."
"No I haven't got on that."
"Really Anne you must handle these things. A wedding will not plan itself."
"I know; I know. But the hospital is so busy right now and I have a new group of patients for my study. Its just not a good time."
"Well you only get married once. You do want this to be special? Anne if you are having second thoughts no one would think any the worse." Dame Katherine asked placing a conciliatory arm around her foster daughter. Anne only warmly responded that she absolutely wanted to marry Frederick, wondering if the two people she loved most in the world would ever learn to tolerate each other. Oh she was trying, but Anne wondered if the Dame's heart was as determined to see good in him as she claimed. Continuing to press her friend to acquaint herself with all of Frederick's good qualities, Anne hoped she might get them to tolerate each other somehow.
Nevertheless, the mere notion that not wanting the fanfare reflected ambivalence was offensive to Anne. What did it matter about flowers or colours or gowns? She could marry him in sackcloth and ashes and it would be special. All she wanted was for Frederick to come home. He was on base and wouldn't be back for another week.
"Anne why not hire a planner?" More expense thought Anne. Wasn't the hundreds of dollars spent on an inedible cake enough for everyone. "We really can't afford it Katherine. I'll speak to you about the dress soon. I am going to see Henrietta this afternoon."
"Well mind you don't let her influence your choice. That girl has no taste. Sweet but hopeless."
"Henri's taste is superb. She only dresses herself like that, besides it is quite chic in some circles. She would never create a dress like that for me. I am sure she tailor it to my taste rather than her own."
"You are allowing her to make your gown?!" Dame Katherine shook her head in wonder and continued, "How she can be a clergyman's wife I will never know. I wonder what the parishioners think of her hair. And such a waste of her education."
"Henri's very happy Katherine. She is very devoted to Charles and the congregation. Money isn't everything."
"Well no, but seriously Anne, she isn't very accomplished. After what you have achieved how can one admire such a girl?"
"There are accomplishments other than professional ones. She is happy. That is an accomplishment most people never achieve." Anne was becoming increasingly indignant and eager to see her maternal friend gone. Even Anne's great love for Dame Katherine could not overcome her frustration at Henrietta's being disparaged in this manner. Henrietta was neither extremely successful nor cerebral, but her business was profitable and she and Charles were happy whatever their income.
The truth was Anne envied them. At 23, Henrietta had everything Anne had ever wanted. Success as a doctor had made Anne proud and she enjoyed her work, but it was a very limited kind of happiness. There was gratitude but no love. Patients had their own families and Anne left alone with her achievements. In every sphere but home, Anne was important, but only Frederick had loved her. This isolation was most acute when sitting at a family dinner amidst the blood that was supposed to be saturated with affection, than it was on an endless Saturday night. Tiresome and indifferent company is rarely more desired than solitary delight.
Now that solitary existence was over, mused Anne, bringing a curl to her thin lips and a shine to her eye without ever lifting her view from the sample book avoiding the Katherine gaze. Frederick was back and she was going to be Mrs. Wentworth after all, well Dr. Wentworth really. She would not be the least bit melancholy to shuck the burden of being an Elliot. Distinguished though the name was, it had brought none but her father pleasure. As it was his chief pleasure - he would love it enough for the whole clan.
Anne left with armfuls of samples and brochures as company. It was off to Henrietta's. Warmly welcomed and taken into the kitchen, Anne was poured a cup of tea as she updated Henrietta. "I love weddings. A good thing too I must attend 2 or three a month," nattered Henrietta cheerfully as she nibbled on a freshly baked cookie.
"I thought I loved them, until I started to plan my own."
"I know it's a lot of work, but it will all seem worth it when the day comes."
"Somehow I doubt that. I don't even have a dress yet. That is why I wanted to see you. I wanted ask if you would make mine. I would pay for it of course."
"Oh Anne, that is so sweet. I would love to. You aren't afraid?"
"Not at all. I love your work. How much would it be?"
"I can't charge you. Think of it as my gift."
"Ok," Anne smiled as everything came together. "But let me pay for the material. I insist."
The two headed to Henrietta's workroom and poured through sketches. The whole process little held Anne's interest until she came across a small sketch buried under a pile of fantasy designs and wild costumes. It was of a simple empire-waisted gown embroidered with vines on the skirt. When Anne asked about it, Henrietta laughed a little explaining it was a costume for last year's church production of Pride and Prejudice.
"But if you really like the style I could do one up that is slightly more modern." Henrietta set about sketching much to Anne satisfaction. "Oh, Henri, it's beautiful."
"Oh I've cleaned up the neckline. The sleeves should be lengthened a little for the church. I think a nice matte satin and pleated chiffon. If I start now I can finish the embroidery by hand, but I think perhaps I should do it in white."
"Oh no I love the green. They aren't vines if they're white." For the first time Anne felt like a bride; in that dress who could not? They set a date for a fitting and Anne left with a new coloured sketch to show to Mary, who would doubtless be torn between delight that her sister-in law was its designer and its inferiority for the body of an Elliot bride.
Later that evening, settling into a large chair, Anne poured over much neglected paperwork, with a bowl of pasta and her mutt, Sancho, for company. Strange, thought Anne, that she had never felt lonely in her home before Frederick came back into her life. Her little house had always been a refuge from everything and everyone else. She had found comfort there, even when he was seeing Louisa. Now, every room, that once been so cozy seemed a little bare. Absentmindedly Anne stroked Sancho as she poured through Leslie Musgrove's notes.
He was right; she would have to trim the groups and her expectations. It seemed so cruel, but money reigned over medicine and she was lucky to have enough to launch the study. Without support from the Woodhouse Wellness Foundation there wouldn't be any study at all. She seriously contemplated taking the whole budget and giving it to charity. Better that than the Laura Place Bakery. Mother would have liked that she mused. Nevertheless, her father would never accept such a thing. As he was paying, his desires came first.
"Oh the case was settled. My client pleaded," he answered still carrying her in his arms. "You object?"
Planting a kiss squarely on his lips, she assured him she was very glad to have him home "I missed you," was her quiet reasoning.
Is there a Frederick in the world who could resist that. Frederick Wentworth certainly couldn't. As much as she demanded he put her down, Frederick refused. He was not about to let this moment go. Anne paused an extra moment to contemplate the naval coat that was now enveloping her petite figure. It really was true; men in uniforms were sexy. Frederick seemed taller and stronger in that blue coat with its shining buttons, which were just now creating painful indents in Anne's delicate flesh.
"Your buttons," she laughed, "are digging into my flesh." Gallantly her hero carefully stood Anne on her feet, kissing her one more time.
Even with this inducement to retreat from the world, reason soon prevailed. They could not stand like that forever; Anne had to go to work. "Ah well I guess if a doctor is going to cure breast cancer she can't sit around kissing the man she loves," sighed Frederick dramatically.
"I'm not curing breast cancer. It's just a small study on the effect of meditation."
"Well I'm sure it will make a difference."
"I hope so. But I'm just a psychiatrist Frederick."
"You're not just anything Annie. You're a tour de force in everything you do."
"I'm not the one who served on a battleship with 40 foot guns. ...... Well I don't serve on them anymore," he laughed, "and who was ever scared of a lawyer?"
"Only Elizabeth's ex. But then Mr. Shepherd is one scary divorce lawyer."
Posted on Friday, 26 April 2002
Chapter 3: cont....
When Anne emerged from the shower and dressed, she found Frederick patiently at work on a lovely breakfast. As she continued to dry her hair with a towel she inhaled deeply and sighed "Blueberry pancakes! My favourite. You remembered!"
"Of course I remembered," he replied as though remembering such a thing after over a decade was like remembering to pick up the dry-cleaning.
As Anne went about setting the table, it suddenly occurred to her that she hadn't had any blueberries in her fridge, not that she could remember anyway. "I know Annie, I brought my own. I knew you wouldn't have any. Your fridge is scandalous dear. It is a wonder you are still living after all that time without me. I leave it tolerably stocked and all you have when I come back is processed cheese, onions and cherry beer."
"I get by."
Dropping his employment, Frederick put his arms around her waist and defiantly informed her she was now going to be taken care of, as she well needed. Anne laughingly objected, claiming herself old enough, but Frederick would not accept it.
"You are just the same beautiful girl I fell head over feet for in another century. And in all that time you haven't learned to cook. No wonder they took you off the cooking roster in college. It was a good thing you all had a Wentworth at your disposal. I come from a distinguished line of chefs if you remember. Our whole house would have starved."
"I can cook now. I just don't have much time."
"You work too hard sweet," he lovingly reprimanded
"Not at all," she replied stopping his objections with a kiss. They stood like that for some time until Frederick caught a waft of his creation, more carbon than either would accept.
Breakfast was eventually very merry as the pair sat down and caught up on each other's lives. Frederick was happy to have his transfer order in the process. Of course, he was required to finish with many of his cases, but the transfer was as good as signed.
With each night that Anne came home to find his shoes in her hallway and his voice calling out to welcome her, her confidence in this new life increased. So long ago she had almost given up on living for her own pleasure, instead filling her life with a devotion to friends, family and work. Now those things just seemed to swirl around her as her relationship with Frederick sank into her core, changing her in ways she hadn't imagined. To begin each day with a laugh and end it with a smile was more than she had ever imagine possible. And that morning she
"I can't help it Annie. Force of habit. Can't do without my morning routine."
Rinsing her mouth, Anne groaned that he must be insane.
"We do more before 11 than most people do all day."
"That's the army."
"Well then make it 9 o'clock," he said welcoming her to the new day with a kiss. "What do you suppose we should do today. I want us to do something fun; something special."
"Oh Frederick I would love to but I have a thousand things to do for the wedding."
"Well considering it is my wedding too, shouldn't you at least let me help?"
"You don't want to. It's boring. Surely there are things you'd rather do?"
"Nope."
"Friends to see?"
"Nope"
"Well, there is something I have been thinking about. I suppose we could get my ring."
"Oh yes." cried Frederick slapping his palm on his head and feeling rather stupid. "Why didn't you remind me? You don't even have an engagement ring." Sweeping her into his arms, he assured her she was going to have the most dazzling engagement ring the world ever saw. "Only where does one get a ring?"
"Les told me where he bought Mary's."
"I suppose not entirely romantic to have you pick the place, but ok."
Seeming a little down, Frederick attempted to tease a smile out of Anne. "I know the diamond I could get you will not be as big as Elliot's, but surely we can find something nice. You won't be ashamed to show your hand around town." Instead Anne's expression faded, as she looked out the window readjusting her hair in the side mirror. Frederick pressed to know why she seemed so down. Honesty prevailed as they drove down the highway and Anne complained about all the money they were spending. Frederick assured her they could afford it even if her father could not, but Anne explained she thought it wasted.
"Sometimes I feel were are doing all this to please my father and sisters instead of ourselves."
"Then if you don't want to, we'll just go and get married"
"You wouldn't mind?"
"After all everything we missed, the only thing I care about is spending the rest of my life with you. The rest doesn't matter as long as we're together. Why not just go and do it?. Steve could marry us now that he's got his command back!"
"I am not going to be married by Stephen Harville."
"Then we just go and have Hayter marry us in the middle of the night."
"Mary would be furious. She'd never forgive me. Father would have puppies."
"Let him Annie. You are not a little kid anymore."
"He already put the announcement in the times with a picture and everything. How would it look if we just eloped?"
Frederick laughed. "I never realized you were so old-fashioned Anne Elliot. 'Elope' What is this the ye olden times? - You make it sound so seedy, as if I'm spiriting you away, which by the way I would do if you had some sense to let me. Forget all this stuff about wedding cakes and tartlets. We'll go invite a few friends and be done with it."
"I can't Frederick."
"Well in that case I have a surprise."
"What?" Anne quivered in terror not for his taste but his sense of humour which certainly no Elliot would appreciate.
"Sophie's husband has used his influence to get us a guard of honour. If you like of course."
"A guard of honour? Admiral Croft would do that for you?"
"Swords and all. The whole nine yards. Though I think, he's doing it for you. You are quite the favourite with him." Anne sighed as she imagined herself a bride under the swords. That at least was a pleasant image.
During a full two hours spent in Gardiner's Fine Jewels Anne limply assented to every ring Frederick held out, making him think she was settling. Despite his attempts to generate interest on her part, Anne couldn't admire anything. Gentle little Mr. Maynard Yates was increasingly frustrated as the selection dwindled. Anne couldn't even muster a smile for a vintage emerald - declaring it must be diamond. By the time lunch hit, both parities were peevish and drained as they broke for nourishment.
Though trying hard to maintain some decorum in a public restaurant, Frederick was not amused with his fiancée. He couldn't understand what she wanted or what he was doing wrong. "I'm not resistant!" Anne calmly declared. "I really don't care. One is as good as another."
"There must be something you want."
"What I want doesn't matter. It's what people expect. We'll just go back and get that square one. It was nice."
"I don't care what other people want Annie. I care what you want. You have to tell me - what is going on with you today? This is supposed to be fun but you're acting like it's torture." Heaving a sigh of confession Anne admitted, "I just don't really want a ring, Frederick."
"I thought diamonds were a girl's best friend," he mocked.
"It's an inane ritual, created by the diamond industry to convince women they need proof of their husbands' devotion. And of course to make men spend more than they should on a useless mineral."
"Diamonds aren't minerals Annie. They're compressed carbon."
"Whatever," muttered Anne as she pushed the food around her plate.
"If you don't want one then why plan to go? I just won't get you one. I'll get you something else. A necklace or something."
"I don't need a gift from you. You are enough."
"Then I won't get you anything, not that I want you to go without. I'd get you the Hope Diamond if you wanted it."
"You couldn't afford it."
"Well I'd steal it, if it would make you happy."
"FREDERICK! Don't even suggest such a thing."
"Annie its silly. You're supposed to be happy, but ever since you started planning this wedding you look miserable."
"That's comforting."
"Oh you know you could never alter in my eyes. But you are unhappy. I wish I could elevate some of the burden."
"No, no! I can handle it. Don't worry about me." Frederick begged that they put off this whole ordeal and take Sancho to the park. But Anne refused, insisting that they get something that day since they wouldn't have another chance for some while. "I thought we decided on not getting it," grumbled her fiancé.
"But you have to. It's expected."
"Expectations be damned!" cried Frederick as Anne sighed turning to the café window. "Annie is that how its always going to be? - Putting everyone's wishes before your own. I can't stand it; I won't stand it. I don't want that kind of marriage - Will you do that with me too - put my needs before yours? Promise me you'll never do that. If you don't put yourself first, nobody else can.." Anne nodded but her lover was not convinced.
"You deserve to be happy. You don't owe your family anything."
She tried to tell him he didn't understand, but he insisted on an explanation. "When a couple gets engaged, the man buys a ring. People think if there is no ring then he isn't serious. I don't care for me, but when women ask me where's my ring and I tell them I don't have one. They give me this vile look as if I am some little fool and you're some heartless creep just stringing me along."
"So that will all change when we get married. They'll know I'm serious and that will be the end of it. Besides what do you care what idiots think?"
"Things like that matter. Even after we get married, it will matter. People, my family, will think you're cheap or that you couldn't afford one. I want don't want them thinking that about you. I couldn't bare it."
"I don't care what they think."
"But I DO! It matters to me that they know you aren't at all what they thought you would be. I hate it that they see the JAG core as beneath them, as if not having a trust fund is some sort of social faux pas. I hate it. I won't give them any reason to think you're less than you are."
"Why Anne that's almost spiteful. If I didn't know better, I would think it was."
In an instant, Frederick's face lit up with the largest smile. All teeth, he thrust a forkful of bratwurst in her direction, claiming to have the best solution of all. "We just go back to Mr. Yates and order the biggest most flawed diamond to grace that store. After all, who is going know it's flawed just by looking at your hand. It won't be worth much, but boy will it impress." Anne laughed, only Frederick could find think up that.
As Maynard brought out each ring, he again began to expound on the finer points of choosing a high-quality stone. Educating clients was one of the great skills of a good jeweller. In an effort to save time, Frederick took the lead requesting the largest and cheapest stone they had. With a foolish grin, he explained that his lovely bride found quality quite irrelevant.
Indignant, Maynard Yates's face lost all expression. With a forced artificial calm, he growled, "We do not carry such merchandise sir. Gardiner's only carries the highest quality diamonds. If that is the type of stock you seek, I must refer you to television shopping. They might have such items."
Only keeping a straight face for seconds after leaving the shop, Anne and Frederick went home howling. The two spent the rest of the day in the park, Anne for once wasting time on having fun. Frederick resolved that his Anne's life would be filled with delight.
Sunlight's On its Way
Not satisfied with the end to their quiet afternoon Frederick booked them a table at the Molland Lounge. "Doll face put on that little black number. We're hitting the town," commanded her fiancé in his best gangster brogue, a kiss stopping her objections.
He would hear nothing. They were going dancing and nothing would stop them.
It had been ages since Anne had been dancing, and this was no ordinary nightclub. It was the old fashioned kind that required experience in the art of movement, something every hero must aspire to attain. The two had danced like that many times in college. Frederick Wentworth being probably the only freshman that could salsa. Anne's lonely debutante years had given her more experience in such antiquated customs than she ever wanted.
In Frederick's arms, dancing to music long off the charts, Anne found a use for that particular skill. Never had she loved music more than when in his arms, but since their broken engagement, formal events always held a little bitterness amidst the glitter and balloons. Now, she was back; effortlessly moving with him, as if no time had passed. He was every bit the same and she remembered every step. Some things you never forget.
When at last, the music stopped and the lights came on, the pair set out on their long walk home. The air was warm and sweet with the first hints of spring. Oh, winter would be back to show her face, but for now, spring was triumphant and Anne had never felt better. Stopping at an all night doughnut shop, the pair picked up two coffees and a snack. Still humming a tune from earlier, they walked, fairly silent, clasping hands. With only the barest hints of life, the city was slumbering. All the shops were empty and chained.
Frederick passed them, distracted by the colourful displays contrasting so greatly with the silent grey streets. Outside a looming edifice, he paused, thinking it was a bank and gazed up at the daunting marble façade. It was a Tiffany's and he had the most wonderful idea as he tore off a bit of the chocolate glaze and handed it to Anne.
"Why have display windows if there's going to be no merchandise in them?," she mused. Fredrick laughed a little at her virtuous nature, explaining that they removed the stock at night to prevent theft.
Out of shame for her deplorable ignorance, Anne coloured. He loved it when she blushed - the tip of her ears turned bright pink. They had done that when he first asked her out alone. Their first real date. He remembered everything. His own nervousness over crossing that line, with a housemate; the pretty little flower print skirt she had worn with an oversized green sweater, and the horrible romantic comedy that they spent the rest of the night abusing, in an empty coffee shop. It hadn't been extraordinary, but he she was. And she was just the same - full of gentle compassion and sharp intuition. Just as intelligent, just as sweet.
Morning was half over and even Frederick wasn't eager to get up. Nevertheless, he had plans and they were more important.
"Time to get up. We have things to do Dr. Elliot. Can't waste a day like this," he cried spreading open the curtain.
Anne abused him in a thousand ways begging him to put the shade back, pulling the covers over her head. That only caused him to rip them from her, as she weakly assented to his orders, yawning "sir yes sir. May I have another?"
While Anne brushed her hair, she pressed Frederick for information. Silent as the grave, he wouldn't offer anything except the advice to wear something nice. He loved watching her brush her hair. He has seen many women do that same act, but it was more charming watching her do it.
As Frederick fumbled for his keys, Anne couldn't help but wonder "How do you deal with such a wreck?"
"Don't call my car a wreck. She has served me faithfully and she's beautiful."
"She's an eyesore is what she is."
"Never insult Sweet Janey again and we will have a very happy life together." Pulling down the top, Frederick continued to refuse Anne any information. "A surprise Annie, if you didn't already know, is something that isn't told to you until it happens. That is what makes it surprising."
"I hate surprises," she pouted.
"No you don't. You love them and you'll love this one."
Arriving in the fashion district, Anne's curiosity was almost overpowering. After parking, she was directed without any further explanations. Walking up the same street as the previous night, they stopped at the same building, Frederick playfully remarked that they had put a nice selection in the windows; if just to watch her ears turn a delightful shade of pink. "Frederick, are you mad? This is possibly the most expensive jewellery store possible in existence."
"You have the mean reds my dear and we are definitely in need of a nice round in Tiffany's. Besides I've never actually been in one."
"Just like the movie! I love Breakfast at Tiffany's."
"Why do you think we are here?" Who would not be moved at his remembering something so small and insignificant, as a favourite movie, after all these years? He really hadn't forgotten her.
"But really," she whispered as they entered, "I don't want you to do this."
"We're just looking. It doesn't cost anything to look." Frederick held her hand as he confidentially looked over the glass cases.
"Mama always said Tiffany's made the finest jewellery not because it was the most expressive, but because it had the most class."
"You're mother must have been a very wise woman. I must say they have nice stuff. But I am afraid I have no experience in buying jewellery."
Approached by a salesman, Anne immediately replied they were just looking. She was surprised to find him very pleasant and accommodating. Far more enjoyable to deal with than Mr. Yates.
After a few minutes, Anne asked to leave, but Frederick wanted to buy her something. The truth was, he had enough money. He never spent half of what he made; a bachelor lifestyle was cheap to say the least. Though not the type to wallow in inferior goods, he wasn't about to squander his current earnings on a luxuries he didn't need nor did he have the time to waste picking such things out. As they passed a case of simple bands, it hit Frederick,
"Annie, you do want wedding rings don't you?"
"Well yes, I was planning on it."
"So we'll get them here." Anne tried in a low voice to object that they would be overcharged.
"OH Anne stop being practical for once. We'll get them engraved just like in the movie." She had to smile at this nostalgic extravagance.
Back to serve a ready customer, the pleasant sandy haired clerk introduced himself as Christian Ford. Frederick requested a selection of gold bands for himself and the clerk then inquired if the lady would be selecting a ring as well. Anne nodded as Christian brought out a selection with elaborate metalwork and inset stones. Complimenting them, Anne requested a selection of simpler ones. She thought gold was more traditional, but assented to look at platinum, since Mr. Ford felt that platinum might suit her complexion.
In the end, the happy couple settled on similar styles, admiring each other's and thinking of the day when they would put them on. For the engraving, Frederick simply chose "love, Frederick" as Anne's delicate finger could not hold a much larger phrase. To Anne it was perfect.
Though this was, perhaps, just as unnecessary and indulgent as the cake or decorations Anne hated, she couldn't resist such a irreverent gift. She wanted to belong to Frederick just like in the movie. She wanted to be named and loved.
As they went to the cash, a large vase caught Frederick's eye and on impulse, he bought the stylish item for Anne. "Now when I buy you flowers you'll have more than that glass jug to put them in." As usual, he was crazy, but then that was what she loved about him. Leaving the store, she abused him for wasting his money on such a thing. He only laughed saying she needed it and there was nothing wrong with having beautiful things.
However much Anne loved Frederick, she could not ignore the fact that most of her family didn't care to understand or know him. It distressed Anne that only Mary truly liked him. Their engagement had given Mary as much pleasure, as Louisa had given her grief in leaving Frederick for Lieutenant Benwick. As soon as Anne announced her engagement, she assented that James would do for Louisa, but an Elliot deserved better. It did not hurt that Mary looked forward to his continued company. Both she and Les enjoyed Fred's playful conversations and entertaining stories.
To the rest he was nothing. Her father introduced him as 'only Anne's friend' if he was noted at all. Walter Elliot admitted that man was worth looking at, but surely, he must be self-conscious to confess that his daughter was marrying into the army like common folk. Such a brutish, grubby profession was not at all worthy of an Elliot's attention.
Elizabeth avoided Frederick at all costs. He was an embarrassment. To be sure he was handsome enough to be seen next to and could take care of Anne well enough, she never needed anything, but to have a military man join the family was not exactly worthy of the society columns. It didn't matter that the Elliot's fortune and influence had sunk greatly over her lifetime and that they were hardly ever noted at parties and only the barest of guest lists; Elizabeth was still determined to show her best side that season and Anne's marriage would certainly not help. At every event, that man insisted on wearing his ridiculous uniform, and without any sense of shame.
The charm of a man in uniform was obviously lost on Elizabeth. Anne wondered if she might like Frederick better after seeing "An Officer and a Gentleman", but then Elizabeth would be little impressed by a love story involving a factory worker. Were it not her fiancé, Elizabeth disdained, Anne might have the heart to laugh at her sister's prejudices. As far as that sister was concerned Frederick might as well have gone back to the middle of the Atlantic to play about in the muck of the engine rooms or whatever sailors did. Apparently, the dozens of times Frederick had explained his profession to Elizabeth Elliot had not removed any of her ignorance.
His accomplishments could not even hold sway with the one person in Anne's life who should have admired them. Dame Katherine Russell still thought him too mischievous for her taste. He often spoke his opinions very forcefully to Walter and was rarely serious when it was needed. She still felt that he could not be trusted with Anne's heart. Only her great love for her friend motivated her search for his better qualities. Success was mixed. Nevertheless, as long as Anne was determined to have him, Dame Katherine would continue searching.
What kind of future was in store for Anne, when her family seemed so set against her happiness?
Frederick lost no sleep over Anne's family. He tolerated their prejudices and never spoke ill of them to Anne, be they ever so deserving. It was a topic avoided by both, Frederick out of sensitivity and Anne out of shame. When he saw evidence of their neglect, which was often, it took great restraint to refrain from rising to her defence. He knew, despite the treatment she received at their hands, Anne loved them. Even Mary who often required her sister, only wanted Anne's help doing what she herself found unpleasant or boring. There was no great sisterly bond, despite some measure of appreciation for Anne.
But all the Elliots were insufferable snobs, Mary included. Thinking more of their deteriorating fortune and rank, than Anne's happiness. Unlike his own rank, the Elliots had done nothing to deserve respect or admiration and Frederick refused to give it over without any in return. It is a difficult thing to see the one you love in pain and be unable to help. Defending Anne would not change her family and it would only hurt her. So selfless she supported them at all costs.
Even Dame Katherine was a constant irritant. Though she was in Anne's loneliest years a devoted friend, Frederick's resentment remained strong. Though he had tried, Frederick could not forgive her persuasion of Anne, both in the past and more recently concerning Elliot. Their difference in characters often made Frederick feel as though they competed for the care of Anne's heart - a competition Frederick was forever fearful of loosing.
The next several weeks, were not easy for Anne. Mary was still alluding to the absence of an engagement ring and even Les had commented on it, teasing his absent friend for being insensitive to the needs of women. Anne hated those looks that disparaged her lover. She hated it for herself as well. It spoke of that chauvinistic outlook that still reigned over the discussion of marriage; the view that women needed their volatile moods placated and their shallow affections wooed with trinkets. Every moment made Frederick's suggestion running off more appealing.
More tasks filled her days than could be performed; through perseverance Anne managed to get most of her work done. It was easier to do so without Frederick underfoot, but she missed his games and his cooking. Her bed seemed vast and icy without him. Every morning she awoke to his voice over the phone, but it was not the same as waking up to his touch. There was none of his infectious laughter and she missed it terribly. Amazing how rapidly something can become necessary to one's happiness.
His morning wake-up call had become customary since their engagement, and it always Frederick's voice brought a smile to Anne's lips. Demanding a kiss one morning, he refused to back down, despite her assurance that she was unable to fulfill that curious request. Still he abused her for her cruelty and insisted that she owed him at least a smile. "Ahh my love that is better,!" he sighed presenting himself at the foot of her bed, cell phone in hand and slipping his figure underneath her covers to receive his impossible kiss. "You love doing that don't you?"
"Almost as much as I love doing this," he responded kissing her neck as he tucked her hair behind her ears.
Leaving for work, Anne promised to meet him for dinner, which he promised to make. With a full day and nothing to do Frederick was quite beside himself.
Leisure was not common in his life and by midday, he had stocked Anne's fridge, taken out her garbage, and folded all her laundry. Aimlessly he tried to flip through her magazines but medical journals and fashion rags were not to his taste. Scanning her small bookshelf, he could find nothing to interest him - just more medical texts and a surprising collection of horror novels. Anne Elliot was a complex woman - complex women had strange tastes. The rest was poetry - who read poetry any more?
He set about preparing dinner and that being done almost too soon, Frederick turned to the television. He aimlessly surfed from channel to channel. Then suddenly his eye hit on something. The perfect thing!
A few days later that the package arrived. Signing for the mysterious item Anne thought it a little odd, but then noticed it was addressed to Frederick. She wondered what it could be that he would have cause to buy from the Home Shopping Network. She laid it on her dining-room table and set back to work on her guest list. Names, names, names. Father kept insisting people be added. She couldn't remember ever meeting half the people on the ever-growing list, and most of the others only for moments during her childhood. The only ones she was eager to meet were Frederick's people. Then she reminded herself - Father is paying. Days passed as the package languished on the table, blending in with the boxes of samples and other junk that Anne had spread about in the chaos of wedding central. By the time Frederick returned, she had forgotten all about it.
He arrived on the doorstep like a proper suitor - two-dozen irises in hand and a ridiculous request to step inside. Amused by his formality she welcomed him in offering him some refreshment and a place to dock his horse. For every gallant knight must have a faithful steed. They talked over the week as she handed him the guest list. Frederick had the same comments she did, but wasn't so charitable to Walter Elliot. Gracious in tone, Frederick pleaded with his bride to put her foot down. Eager to avoid an argument she promised.
Sometimes it is more pleasant to have bread with the one you love than a feast with strangers. Since Anne burned her dinner, they ordered pizza instead and there being no room on her dinning room table, they laid out a picnic on the living room floor as they played game after game of scrabble and then chess because Frederick wanted a game he could win. He was still convinced medical terms were not allowed, despite their presence in the dictionary. An entirely unfair advantage since most legal terminology was in Latin. Only just, as they headed up to bed did Anne remember his package. Surprised at his nonchalance, she wondered "Don't you want to open it?" Frederick owned he didn't, taking her face in his palms and whispering "I know what's inside." By morning, Anne had again forgotten all about the package, just as Frederick had planned.
Waiting all morning for a spare moment and finding none, Frederick ordered his bride into his car. She was to take sunglasses and water, leaving behind her work and worries. Only when they reached the water did she stop asking him where they were going. She knew. As they loaded the ferry filled with families and young lovers, Anne moved straight to her favourite spot out on the bow so she would watch the water. The wind tossed her hair into her eyes as the ferry took off and noticing a slight shiver, Frederick silently wrapped his coat around her shoulders. She hadn't taken this ferry in years, but they had gone once together during their first engagement.
The small island was just same. Its large grass lawns littered with groups playing games and lounging around. The signs staked into the earth still teasingly read "Please walk on grass." Before Laura Elliot's death, she had often picnicked here with her daughters. Anne remembered Mary as a charming chubby baby waddling about, trailing her doll behind her in the grass; Elizabeth rolling up her shirt in a girlish attempt to seem sexy. Most of all she remembered her mother's endless games and attention.
Amidst this flood of memories, Anne went straight to her favourite spot - the hedge maze. Frederick followed fast on her heals, feeling much more like a boy than the grown man he was. When tired of the island's amusements, Anne and Frederick lay out on the grass, the air still filled with winter's chill and gazed at the clouds. "It's all the same. The carousel; the maze, even the ferris wheel that looks like a windmill," exclaimed Anne.
Such a magical day she thought. "I have something for you," Frederick whispered in her ear. Anne sat up to receive the gift. When he presented the small velvet box, her smile fell. Taking the item with dread, she opened it to find a small gold ring holding a sizeable square cut diamond solitaire. Her sighing compliments weren't lies; it was beautiful, but she had thought Frederick was the one person who would understand. This was too much for an item she didn't want. "Oh you needn't look like that Annie."
"This is too much."
"I don't think $250 is too much my love."
"Did you rob the store or something? There is no way."
"You wanted to know what was in that box. Here it is."
"You got my ring off the Home Shopping Channel?"
Nodding Frederick added that it was not only accessible but friendly as well. "That," he mocked pointing the ring "is a high quality masterfully cut apparently very sought after - 'Diamondelle' - Whatever that may be."
"You mean it's not real?"
"Sorry, not even I can get you a rock like that for 250."
"You do realise that most women would be very insulted to get a fake?"
"You, my dear, are obviously not like other women. Besides, it reminded me of a ring we saw at Tiffany's. They called it the Lucinda. I liked that. Reminded me of Ikea where they name all the furniture - as if it's going to be a member of the family. Trust me - if you wanted to impress that will impress. Just don't let Elizabeth look too closely."
Anne put it on and wrapped her arms around Frederick, both falling to the grass. He truly knew her heart better than any other creature. To be understood was the most wonderful feeling in the world.
Over the next few weeks, wedding plans went smoothly. Anne had settled on most of the important issues, except the music. Everything was coming together and Anne was almost excited about the prospect of being the centre of attention. Her dress was in its third fitting, though it had been taken in once already as the stress got to Anne. Henrietta ordered her to not let it happen again or the dress would not fit at all.
Chattering away about church gossip as she pinned the dress, the happy seamstress tried to entertain a weary bride. "Like my new hair colour Anne? Mrs. Norris was about to pitch a fit. She thinks I'm unfit to be a 'leader of the congregation'. Her phrase not mine!"
"What about the others?"
"They don't care, just her. Old bag. I know; not very Christian, but I can't help it." Anne thought orange was the wrong colour and suggested that she go back to the green, which set off her eyes.
Henrietta agreed the green had been nicer, but that was too much maintenance. "It always fades into a sort of slime colour. I'm thinking of going to my natural colour for your big day. I don't think Charles has seen it in years."
There was apparently no dearth of news around the area. "Jane Fairfax, Ellen Campell's stepsister, has been secretly engaged to Frank Churchill for over two years. But he's tied to his aunt's apron strings. She controls him through a trust fund and when the aunt discovered their engagement, she threatened to cut him off." Anne wasn't normally the type to listen to gossip; as a psychiatrist she more often felt a greater urge to counsel than laugh at such problems. Nevertheless, Henrietta's pleasant voice and cheerful manner were enough to make the afternoon agreeable.
When Henrietta was finished and Anne stared at herself, veil in hand, her ivory dress draping elegantly around her body. Overwhelmed she began to cry. Handkerchief ready, Henri's arms were around Anne in an instant. "Anne you look beautiful. Don't cry."
"I never thought I would marry, but it's really going to be me, isn't it?"
"Absolutely, in a few months you will be Mrs. Frederick Wentworth," she answered putting some pins away. "I have a present. I was going to save it until your shower, but I figure that will be filled with naughty items. This is a little more wholesome. Change and meet me downstairs." Henrietta unbuttoned the dress and left Anne to reflect a moment. The ability to know when people needed the privacy of their thoughts is an important skill for a preacher's wife.
Taking the large parcel, Anne objected thinking perhaps Frederick should be there, but Henrietta insisted that he wouldn't mind. Tearing away the paper, Anne pulled out the most beautiful quilt. The work was exquisite. Almost speechless, Anne began to sputter protests; she couldn't accept such an extravagant gift. Henrietta wouldn't have it. "My circle made it for you and Frederick. All traditional, hand done. We made it over the last few weeks. It's a wedding ring quilt. That's the pattern. Do you like it? I hope you haven't changed your bedroom. I designed it to match your walls." Anne began to cry again, praising it as the most beautiful gift she had ever received. "You must have worked so hard."
"It's not so hard when you have a group. We make lots of them, for raffles and stuff."
"You're amazing, Henri. Is there anything you don't do?"
"Oh Doc," she laughed, "I could think of a few things. Graduate from college, go to med school. If anyone deserves a little happiness it's you."
"Will Louisa be angry? Did you make one for her?"
" Louisa would never want one. No appreciation for folk art. She's more of an minimalist modern kind of girl. Plus, I've made a million things for her. I even made James the sweetest sweater. The old fashioned sailor's kind." At that moment, Anne felt truly blessed.
She felt like Cinderella, with some fairy guardian who was righting all the wrongs in her life. Everyone and everything seemed filled with joy - and Louisa whose happiness once seemed mutually exclusive to her own was not the least bit injured. It was a fairytale, and she was the heroine touched with some sort of fairy-dust.