I did things right.
“Anna, are you in here?” Mr Bates softly but firmly called for his wife as he opened the door to Lady’s Mary’s dressing room.
“Yes Mr Bates I am, but what are you doing here?” Anna walked to her husband, greeting him with a smile and a kiss. He kissed her back.
“Stop that, however later today….” Anna smiled cheekily, “the family is going into York – we have the evening off, as they will be returning late.”
“Well, Mrs Bates, I hate to break the news to you …” he paused and fixed her with such a look, “but that’s the second best news I’ve had today.”
“The second best?”
“Do remember when I told you I did things right?”
Anna slowly nodded “yes”
“I visited London - went to Murray and Regiment Headquarters - recanted my confession. I had given up, but today, today! I, We finally got the news. My name is clear of this, and Vera’s death was ruled a suicide.” He handed Anna correspondence from Murray.
Anna could do nothing but stare at her husband.
“Darling Anna, I’m so sorry I didn’t tell you, but I couldn’t bear for you to be disappointed in me again.”
“John Bates, never ever say that to me again. I love you. You are a source of strength, of joy, of wonderment to me. You make me complete.” Anna took her husband’s hand and with it caressed her little bump – “You make our family complete.”
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I've been thinking about this all summer. I want his name clear and a #babybates in S5. :-)
