I think the hardest part for me is - as you said - Anne has no one to confide in - as LR was a major force in Anne not marrying. So Anne's closest friend and confidante can not be part of this emotional journey.

Ouch!

I think of the other Austen leading ladies, and they may be emotionally stranded for a time (Fanny and Elinor come to mind with attachments that cannot be discussed), but not like this, with repressed feelings that have been buried for years and years during adulthood. And to know it was your choice (however guided and shaped by others) to end the relationship.

Double ouch!

Every time I read the opening chapters I find this to be a bit more heart-rending.

[hanky fluttering and many sighs]