The Gown

Content Warning: Chapter 22 features a depiction of sexual assault.

Ann receives a letter from Jeremy begging her for forgiveness and inviting her to dinner. Ann is still hurt but decides that, because she hadn’t told Jeremy where she worked, it is partly her fault Jeremy ignored her. She calls Jeremy, and he apologizes again. Ann agrees to go to dinner with him that night. Jeremy picks her up in his car and says he must run home and get his gloves before they go to dinner. Ann thinks it’s odd but goes along with it. The house is empty, and Jeremy says his sister is out. He insists on taking Ann’s coat, starting a fire, and getting her a drink while he finds the gloves. Jeremy starts asking about Hartnell, saying that Ann must have a lot of people asking about the dress. Ann feels uncomfortable because of his attitude and questions. Jeremy accuses her of not telling him about her work and the gown. Ann responds that she couldn’t betray her friends.

Jeremy invites Ann upstairs, but she says she isn’t feeling well and wants to go home. Jeremy insists, and she reluctantly goes with him. Jeremy reveals his parents live in the country and his inheritance is gone, and he has a large amount of debt.