Pretence

Preface

        A chilly wind blew across her face and Jane began to tremble. Inwardly, she cursed the winter air and its reprehensible character, then she continued to walk along the promenade. She walked briskly, tightening the hold of the shawl around her neck; it was imperative that tonight, she would catch no sickness. An invitation had been extended to her to dine with one of Baths prestigious families and several guests unfamiliar to the likes of her. 

        She walked alone, darting occasional glances at passers-by and averting her gaze only when they stared back; it was a habit of hers. In Steventon, everybody was familiar to Jane and the transition from there to Bath had provided her with much unsettlement in almost all aspects of her life. But the strangers on the street were of little distress to Jane now, for she felt that she had adjusted well to this unfamiliar world. 

        Jane escaped the hustling sprawl of the main streets and soon found herself in more humble surroundings. Soon, the path underfoot almost crackled with every step she took and the distance between houses was greater with every turning point in the road. It was still within the grasp of Bath, but Jane had to be satisfied with the distinct difference. 

        She approached the front door and chuckled at the sound of the family who lived behind it; the odd shout and thunder of the staircase being a familiar resonance in the Austen household. Sighing, she opened the door and the bickering between her mother and sister rushed out at her in welcome.

Cassandra stormed down the staircase at the sound of the door opening. Her eyes were wild and her dark hair was askew. 

        “Jane! You must come upstairs at once! If you think yourself presentable enough to dine tonight, you are wrong” cried she. Taking Jane by the hand, the two women went upstairs in a fit of giggles. From downstairs, their mother rolled her eyes; it was hardly appropriate for ladies over the age of five-and-twenty to laugh with such girlish spirit.