Part 35: Sincere Joy

There were so many times in the past when Eleanor felt the absence of her mother. The want of a companion was certainly strong, but moreso the need for guidance and reassurance which even a beloved brother could not provide. The last few months of solitude had, ironically, distracted her from this feeling, dominated as they were by fears and pains related to those she hoped to one day reunite with.

But it had never fully abated.

There was so much to be happy for today! The weather was cooperative, her father was in better spirits than she could ever remember, and despite missing Henry she could not repine the moment she stepped into the church and saw her betrothed for the last time, ere he vowed to serve as her husband for so long as they both lived. She smiled without reservation and wondered that her being could possibly contain the wellspring of emotion pouring forth.

It was later, at the breakfast, that she received one more blessing unanticipated.

"I have always wanted a daughter," her new mother said with teary compassion. "I am so very glad it should be you."

Title from Chapter 31 of Northanger Abbey: "My own joy on the occasion is very sincere."