Chapter 1

Posted on September 22, 2008

Fitzwilliam Darcy III stood at the rear of the platform at the Paoli train station, watching the other commuters and waiting for the Regional Rail train. This would be his first experience on SEPTA.

Like everyone else, he realized the impact of skyrocketing gas prices, and Darcy, Inc. was addressing the issue by encouraging the use of public transportation. They began offering TransitCheks to employees who used public transportation; and who could better set the example than the CEO?

His friend, Charles Bingley, had been riding the train in for a couple of months, and he seemed happy with the experience, but when had Charlie ever had an unhappy experience?

Will checked his watch again. No, it's not late yet. He sighed quietly. I hate just standing around like this. Please don't let anyone notice me. He checked it two more times before seeing the train come around the bend, on time.

As it approached, he was amused to watch the organized chaos of the other commuters trying to guess where the doors would be so they could quickly position themselves to best advantage.

Charlie said the third car, so that was where he boarded. There were people everywhere; nearly every seat was filled. He scanned. Where is he! Finally, he spotted Charlie when he stood up and waved.

Once he made his way to the back of the car, Charlie said, "Here, sit next to Lizzy; she's been saving your seat."

Saving my seat? What is this, fourth grade? He then looked at the girl with the empty seat beside her. Perhaps it is; she doesn't look much older.

He put his attaché on the rack and sat down next to 'Lizzy,' behind Charlie and a stunning blonde.

"This is my friend, Will Darcy." Charles was facing the women. Then turning more so he could look at his friend, he continued, "Will, this is Jane and Lizzy Bennet. They live out near Thorndale."

Will looked from one woman to the other. He could see only a small resemblance in the sisters. Not only was Jane beautiful, but she was professionally dressed and looked like someone he would meet across a conference room table. Lizzy, however, was wearing jeans and no makeup; her long brown hair was pulled back in a ponytail. She must be a student at one of the universities.

"Nice to meet you, Will," Lizzy said cheerfully. "First day, huh?"

"Uhm... yes."

"I much prefer the train to driving, especially when you can catch the Flyer. Instead of the stress of traffic, you'll have half an hour to meet new people or relax or whatever." She let out a little half giggle. "I'll warn you now that Charlie is no company. Within five minutes, he and Jane will be oblivious to the world around them."

"I heard that!" Charlie said, then turned. "Did you bring a paper, Will? You want my Business Section, or the Journal?"

"I've read the Journal, but I'll take your Inquirer Business." He took the section and began perusing it.

Lizzy was a bit disappointed by the handsome man's snub, but decided not to worry about it and resumed reading Lady Killer.

She was just getting into a good section when she felt her Blackberry vibrate. Sighing, she pulled it off her belt and looked at it. Ugh! Him again!

Will watched out of the corner of his eye as Lizzy typed away on her phone. Kids and their toys; just as I expected.

After several minutes of this, Jane turned. "What's wrong, Lizzy?"

"Matt killed the daemon. I told him to restart, but goodness knows what he did. I hope I don't have to redo his system again." She rubbed her temple, trying to ease the headache that had suddenly taken root. She then continued responding to messages until the train went underground towards Suburban Station.

Elizabeth reattached her Blackberry and reached for the backpack between her feet. "If you will excuse me, Mr. Darcy," she said. "I really must run now, so if I could get to the door..."

He moved to let her pass, without so much as a glance in her direction. In moments, her petite frame was hidden by other passengers pressing for the exit.

While walking up the hall of CBL Investments, Jane Bennet spied a small white Reebok sticking up in the air. "Laying down on the job again, Lizzy?"

Elizabeth was on her stomach, propped over a tower computer lying on its side. "Says there's no hard drive. It's quicker to just check it here first." Sitting up and crossing her legs, she pressed the power button and waited. Seconds later Windows was loading. "See, Jane. No biggie." Elizabeth smiled.

"Good. Does that mean we can do lunch now?"

"Just a couple more here." She logged into the computer and determined it was on the network and functioning as it should, then shut it down, replaced the side panel and stood the computer back up properly. Once the Windows splash screen displayed again, she said, "I don't have time to go out today. Is there food, or do I dig out the peanut butter and crackers?"

"Lunch meetings are over and there are leftovers in the kitchen."

"Good. We can eat in my office; I've got a system build going."

Jane closed the door as they settled into Elizabeth's office, asking, "So, little sis, what did you think of Charlie's friend?"

"I think he's a stuck-up jerk. I tried to be nice to him, but he just looked at me like it was an insult to have to sit next to me. Not that you'd notice; you're oblivious to everything else when Charlie's around. I'm surprised he hasn't asked you out."

"It's not like that. We're just friends."

"But you'd like it to be more."

"I suppose so, but he hasn't indicated an interest in me like that. I'm happy to be friends."

Jane's Blackberry rang, and she looked at the Caller-ID. "Oops! Looks like lunch is over. Later, Liz," Jane blurted as she grabbed the remains of her hoagie and left Elizabeth's office while talking on her phone.

Elizabeth noticed the time at 4:47 and decided to pack up before she was trapped with a new problem. She called Jane as she got ready to leave. "I'm bailing... walk with me?"

"I'll be running if I make it. Go ahead," was her sister's reply.

She made it to the platform eight minutes before the Flyer was due, and luckily found a seat. Since Jane wasn't around, this was a perfect opportunity to work on her fanfiction story, so she pulled out her notebook computer and began typing away. Even dear sweet Jane would tease her mercilessly if she knew about this obsession.

While trying to type a scene as it played in her mind, she recognized Charlie's voice. He and Will were standing almost directly in front of her. "Jane is the most beautiful creature I ever beheld! If only I thought I stood a chance with her. What'd you think about Lizzy?"

"The young one who 'saved a seat for me' this morning? She's tolerable; but I'm a little more interested in world and business affairs than worrying about some kid in jeans text messaging her friends and killing demons!"

Charlie looked past Will and realized they had an audience. He laughed. "You know, you're a real ass, Will. Not only have you insulted one of the brightest technological minds in the region, but you did so within her hearing."

Darcy turned and met Elizabeth's eye, blushing a little.

"Perhaps I should introduce you two properly this time. Will, this is Elizabeth Bennet. She is the IT Department at CBL Investments; you know, that hot fund company that everyone's talking about? She wrote their main database and maintains all their systems. She has her masters in computer science from Penn, graduated summa cum laude. She got Jane her job in marketing there; and she setup my home computer." Charlie smiled broadly at Elizabeth.

"Elizabeth, this is Fitzwilliam Darcy, CEO of Darcy, Inc., a Fortune 100 company started by his grandfather, which has done very well under his leadership. I used to think him one of the smartest people of my acquaintance."

Will looked from Charlie to Elizabeth, surprised both by his friend's behavior and by what he had said. He could feel the blood coloring his cheeks, though he wasn't sure if it was from anger or embarrassment.

He was startled to hear Elizabeth exclaim, "Oh, phooey!" as she slammed her computer closed and slid it into her backpack. She stood and walked towards the mass of people forming near the tracks as the train pulled to a stop. "We'll be stuck with crappy seats now."

Will looked around and Charlie was gone. He could still see Elizabeth though, so he followed her.

She surveyed the available seats. It was going to be cozy tonight. Ooh! There's a three-seat with only one person. If I'm lucky, I won't get squashed.

He was right behind her, and followed her to the seat, apparently intending to sit next to her. So much for a little elbow room! She sighed quietly.

She would not be able to use her computer seated between two people, even if only one of them was a 6'4" and drop dead gorgeous; so she pulled out her book and did her best to get comfortable.

Shortly after the train started moving, her Blackberry vibrated; it was a message from Jane. "Made it! C and I are in one back."

Elizabeth quickly glanced at Darcy; he'd noticed. She smirked to herself as she typed her reply, "KK Find me when he's off." She replaced her phone and picked up her book again. Unable to resist, she looked up at her neighbor. He was staring off into the distance again, apparently in deep thought. Why is it that the good looking guys are either married, gay or complete jerks? Taking a deep breath, she tried to get back into her story.

When she had read nearly a chapter, she felt a light touch on her arm. "Elizabeth?"

He didn't know why he was doing this, but then she looked up and her inquisitive eyes met his. There was something about her eyes, brown eyes that shouldn't have been interesting, but they sparkled with intelligence and a challenge. What was he going to say again?

Holding her gaze, he had to do something. He began slowly and quietly. "I'm... I'm sorry for what I said... and thought... I was being presumptuous. I wasn't eager to take the train, but I thought at least I'd sit with Charlie and talk business... but, well, you know what happened. At that moment, you reminded me more of my sister's friends than someone I would socialize with, and I never gave you a chance." He turned away suddenly. "Charlie's right. I'm sorry."

Elizabeth sat looking at his left shoulder, her mouth hanging open for a long moment. Finally she asked, "What exactly are you trying to say, Will?"

He turned back, but did not look her in the eye. "I was a jerk and was rude to you for no good reason. I guess I'm hoping we can start over..."

"PAOLI STATION. Next stop, PAOLI STATION," came over the speaker.

Will jumped, a little surprised. "It'll be a couple minutes," Elizabeth said nonchalantly. She paused and thought for a moment, but tried to recapture his gaze. "As for that other bit... Get on the train in a better mood tomorrow morning, and we'll go from there. Okay?"

The train was slowing down. "Okay." He forced a little smile before standing up and retrieving his attaché. "Good evening, Miss Bennet. I shall see you in the morning.

Chapter 2

Posted on September 25, 2008

When Charles Bingley boarded the train the next morning, he saw Jane and Lizzy in their usual seats. Jane waved; Lizzy had her legs pulled up, occupying both seats, apparently asleep. As he sat next to Jane, he could see her mouth the word, "Faking."

A couple minutes later, as they were pulling into Will's stop, Jane reached back and said, "Lizzy, sit up. Seatmate time."

Lizzy grumbled a bit, but sat upright and turned so that Will could sit with her, still not entirely sure it was a good idea.

"Hey Will," Charlie said as his friend finally approached.

"Charlie. Jane." He nodded and slipped into the seat behind them after placing his attach? on the overhead. "Good morning, Elizabeth." He smiled at her, not too much, but it was sincere.

She smiled. "Good morning, Fitz-william."

He resisted the urge to roll his eyes, but she must have seen the change in his expression. She looked pleased with herself. Teasing woman!

He tried to think of something to say, but nothing came to mind. This is why he hated crowds; he was never good at small talk. Finally Elizabeth broke the silence. "So where does 'Fitzwilliam' come from?"

Will turned and looked at her a moment, then decided to simply answer the question. "It was my great grandmother's surname."

"And are all Darcys named for their ancestors?" she challenged.

Where is she going with this? He then realized at least one detail she was missing. "Not usually 'ancient' ancestors. I do think Charlie left out something during our introduction though. I am Fitzwilliam James Darcy the third. There is a tradition in my family, originating with our ancestors in England, the eldest son typically bears his mother's surname. I suppose my grandparents did not like the name Wanamaker Darcy."

Elizabeth's jaw dropped a little. "You're a Wanamaker?"

"You could say that... or at least my great grandmother was," he replied nonchalantly.

"So how is it that you are Fitzwilliam the third?"

"I never really asked," he continued in his same serious tone. "My mother's name would have worked. I could have been Pierce Darcy."

She looked up and met his eye before she had to quickly cover her mouth to choke back her laughter. Elizabeth was sure she had completely offended him now; but when she was able to look up again, he was smiling at her.

"I can't see myself as a Pierce either."

She couldn't break her grin as she said, "It sounds like a comic book character. 'Pierce Darcy! Mild mannered, billionaire philanthropist by day...'" Suddenly realizing she might be hitting too close to home, she tried a different angle. "I couldn't imagine naming my child 'Fitzwilliam the fourth.' Would it really be so bad to just give your kid a regular name?"

"From what I've heard, you'd be in the minority."

Elizabeth tipped her head. "How so?"

The left corner of his mouth turned upwards for a moment. "I've heard several women remark on... I suspect they think I want a young Fitzwilliam, and they are... eager to accommodate."

Now it was Elizabeth's turn to smirk as he continued. "When I am ready or fortunate enough to have a son, I'd like to revert to family tradition and use my wife's maiden name... as long as it doesn't sound weird. Bennet Darcy has a nice ring to it..." Oh my God! What did I just say! Quick! "But I wouldn't mind a John or a Robert or a nice traditional name."

His slip had not gone unnoticed, but Elizabeth had to think for a moment how to respond. "No Moon Unit Darcys then? Oh, but I guess that would be a girl's name..."

He laughed. "Dweezil Darcy... not exactly the image I had in mind... You know... I've already had a clear offer for a young Bingley Darcy." He bit his cheek.

Elizabeth was tempted to laugh, but figured this was no laughing matter. "Carrie?"

Will nodded. "Yeah, she's one of the worst. Have you met her?"

"Just the once, when I was setting up Charlie's home computer. For some reason, I'm not shocked."

To their surprise, the train began slowing at it approached 30th Street Station. Both were amazed they had spent more than twenty minutes in comfortable conversation, though in retrospect, on a rather odd topic. They looked at each other and smiled awkwardly; the unease was back.

As the train departed the station, Will asked, "Do you need to get out... for the quick exit?"

Her grin became friendlier. "Nope. I can walk to the office today."

With polite goodbyes at the top of the escalators, the sisters and the gentlemen headed in opposite directions. As they walked, the crowd thinned, and at nearly the same moment, Charles Bingley and Jane Bennet each asked their companion, "Bennet Darcy?"

"Huh?" was Darcy's response. He had heard his friend just fine, but needed time to come up with a plausible explanation.

Charlie snickered. "Jane and I both overheard you. Yesterday, you're calling her a flaky teenager, and today you're naming your children. You clearly said you liked the name Bennet Darcy."

"It was just an example. She asked me about my name and we got talking. I was just making a point how some surnames work well as given names and others do not." Darcy steadily increased his gait, though he did not notice it.

"That's all?"

"Yes, Charles. That is all it was. Shouldn't you be more concerned with balance sheets or P&L's or something?

A few blocks away, Elizabeth answered the inquiry coolly. "I'm certain he meant nothing by it, Jane. He was surely just using the name because it was convenient... I was sitting right there."

Jane shook her head as Elizabeth picked up her pace. "I'm not sure I buy that, sis. Yesterday, you said he was a jerk and he insulted you to your face; today you were sitting there thick as thieves, planning a family. I have a right to wonder what's going through your head."

"It was nothing." She sped up even more before stopping abruptly and turning, raising her voice, "You really want to know, Jane? For a minute there, I was talking about our children; and I think he was too! Not making them, but having them, naming them, loving them... It's kinda freaking me the hell out, Jane! For a while there, everything was perfect..."

She turned and started walking very briskly again. Jane had to jog a little to catch up. "Liz..."

Elizabeth stopped again. "Look, Jane. I just want to go to work, okay? I want to fix computers, you know, ones and zeroes and adding really fast; machines doing exactly what they're told. I'll talk to you later." She turned and stormed in the direction of their office.

There was enough work to keep Elizabeth busy, and keeping her focus on work was generally pretty easy. When she found her mind wandering too much, she ran down to the cart outside and ordered a cheesesteak. Think about Captain Wentworth! What should happen next?

Jane was out to lunch with a client, so Elizabeth closed her office door and pulled up her favorite fanfiction site to peruse the story updates and social chatter of the day as she ate.

When she was finished, she checked her watch. I have time, but should probably get back to work. She turned and quickly checked on a couple of other systems in her office. The fanfiction website was still up on her machine. Glancing at it, she wondered about Mr. Darcy as a character in one of these stories and laughed. He would certainly not deign to be represented so. And who would want to read it anyhow?

She easily slipped back into work mode and did not really notice the afternoon passing. When she finished fixing a trader's computer at 4:40, she decided it was a good time to call it a day, and reached for a phone to call Jane. Before she entered her extension though, she put down the handset. There's no reason to rush; I'll just wait for her to call me.

She settled back in her office, reading the local tech news, unconsciously wondering if she'd see his company mentioned, until Jane finally called at 4:58 and said she was ready. They rushed to Suburban Station, making the platform with a minute to spare. Both looked around, but Charlie and Will were not there.

About the same time their train pulled out of the station, Will Darcy looked sadly at his watch. Not only had this meeting run well past the expected end time, he had now missed the quickest train home. He sighed quietly. At least Charlie was stuck too; they'd be able to talk shop or of other serious matters when they did manage to catch a train.

Chapter 3

Posted on September 29, 2008

Elizabeth's Blackberry began ringing while she was getting dressed. Not long after, Jane found her sitting at her computer, running her fingers through her long hair. "Going in by myself?" Jane asked.

"Yeah, Bob's presentation for this morning is missing... I suspect the handiwork of a certain overzealous intern."

"Okay, I'll see you if you come in then," Jane called as she went to complete her finishing touches.

Twenty-five minutes later, Will boarded his train, only to find two strangers sitting in his seat. Jane was alone in hers, so he headed towards her, until he noticed Charlie moving from a seat across the aisle. "Saved you a seat this way," he greeted cheerfully.

"No Elizabeth today?" inquired Will. God, I hope that didn't sound anxious or disappointed!

"She'll probably go in later. Work called, but it sounded minor enough," Jane answered breezily.

"She works from home sometimes then?" Would you just shut up!

"Yeah, if she has something to do, or if they call and she puts in a lot of time... It just doesn't make sense for her to go in after a certain point. I envy the flexibility, but I'd hate to be on call like that."

"I see," Will replied calmly. He then asked Charlie for his Business section and immersed himself in that for the remainder of the trip.

At 7:20, Elizabeth got the 'all clear' from Bob. His files had been restored, and he had all he needed. Looking at the clock, she was pleased. She could ride her bike to the station and still catch the last limited*. It would be no hardship; on the train, she could look over the edits her beta had sent her for her story and still be in the office before nine.

Just after lunch, Will was sitting at his desk, looking out the window, past Billy Penn, not reading e-mail as he had started to do. His mind was more agreeably engaged, meditating on the very great pleasure which a pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty woman can bestow. He would never admit it, but he had missed her on the morning commute.

Why the hell am I wasting time thinking about her! There were plenty of important tasks demanding his attention, and here he sat whiling away the time like an infatuated schoolboy. Turning back to his computer, he began skimming his inbox. There was a new message from his sister.

From: darcygm@thornton.usc.edu
To: fdarcy@darcy.com
Subject: What did you do?

Have you been messing with the computers again? I tried to connect in to grab one of my performance avi's, and I couldn't get on. Would you call me when you're home and can make sure everything's OK?

G

He jotted off a quick response.

From: fdarcy@darcyinc.com
To: darcygm@thornton.usc.edu
Subject: Re: What did you do?

I was on the computer last night and got on the internet and e-mail. I've done nothing. I'll call you tonight.

W

Why was there always something going wrong in his life? Well, he didn't have time to dwell on it; he had a meeting in five minutes.

Will and Charlie were standing on the platform when Jane and Elizabeth arrived. A smile quickly shone on Will's face, and just as quickly disappeared as he greeted the girls civilly. Nothing further was said as they stood waiting, though Jane and Charlie shared awkward glances and smiles.

Fortunately, they were well situated when the train stopped, and they were able to board quickly. Charlie and Jane found a seat together, as did Will and Elizabeth, though several rows separated the pairs.

After a long silence and much deliberation, Will began, "I hope the problem that delayed you this morning was not too bad..."

"Nah, nothing much at all; spent more time easing the boss' mind than actually resolving the problem." She blushed lightly, realizing that Darcy might relate more to her employer's point of view.

He chuckled a bit. "Your boss is lucky to have you then. I hate it when something goes wrong and no one can tell me how difficult it is to resolve, or how soon it will be fixed."

She smiled back. "It's not always so easy, but when I can, I do try to make sure people know what to expect."

"So, what made you choose computers as a career?" he asked with true interest.

"I've always had a knack with them. It's not like working most of the time; it's usually like getting paid to play."

"I wish I could say that," he replied with only the smallest sigh.

Elizabeth looked at him with a small frown. "So big wig executive wasn't your first choice?"

He smirked a little. "I don't hate it, and I always knew this was my legacy, so I never spent much time thinking about other careers; but sometimes I think I might have preferred something different." He looked at her as he thought a moment. "I always excelled with languages... I might have liked being a writer or editor... perhaps an interpreter." A small chuckle escaped. "I know I wouldn't have made a good teacher or diplomat though."

Elizabeth studied him for a minute. "I take it you don't like speaking in front of people?"

He looked down for a moment. "Or meeting new people... Look how I acted the other day, though I would prefer you didn't. I don't have the talent of conversing easily with those I have never seen before. I cannot catch their tone of conversation... I..."

The question was visible on Elizabeth's face before she spoke. "Don't you have to meet people in your job?"

He nodded, then slowly caught her eyes again. "Then it's usually all business. I don't have to be likable, I just do what it takes; shake hands and be done with it... It's still the part I like least."

She thought to suggest he practice more, but he already appeared to be rather unhappy with the current direction of the conversation. "You mentioned being an interpreter... What languages do you speak?"

He instantly looked relieved. "I'm fluent in Spanish, French, German and Japanese. I also know some Korean and Russian; but mostly in a business context."

"Wow, that's impressive."

Will blushed just a little. "Languages have always come easily to me; I guess like you and computers."

She smiled a little before she realized the train was slowing down. "Looks like your stop."

He looked out the window. "So it does." He showed her a warm, genuine smile. "Have a good evening."

With a matching grin, she replied, "You too."

When he got home, Will wasted no time settling into his home office and calling his sister. She walked him through logging into the defaults. He did as she instructed, but an hour later, she was still no better off.

"You're hopeless, Will. And I really need these files!" came the flustered voice through the phone.

"Can't I e-mail them to you?"

Georgiana sighed. "No, they're too big. If I can't Remote Desktop, then I'm screwed." The line was quiet for a long moment. "You need to get someone out there to fix this. Is there someone you could call?"

He immediately thought of someone who would know what to do, but he couldn't ask her. "Not really," he replied absently.

"What about someone from the office?"

Will stiffened at that suggestion. "You know I'd never ask one of the IT guys there to deal with my home computer. It's unprofessional."

"Fine! Call Circuit City or some small local company, I don't care; but I need to access that computer by this weekend."

"All right. I'll get someone, and I'll call you tomorrow, okay?"

The voice on the other end changed completely; it was now all sweetness. "That's great. Thanks big bro."

Later that night, Elizabeth sat on her bed, balancing her notebook computer on her knees as she surfed the web and chatted with some online friends. When she finished reading an update to one of her favorite stories, she clicked on a random thread, "What makes a hero?" The posts were all about traits they looked for in fictional protagonists. Some wanted 'bad boys,' but most said they liked characters like Captain Wentworth or Mr. Knightley, with or without some canon traits.

Elizabeth had to admit she was a Wentworth fan, but what was her ideal? Sincere, dependable, caring... easy to talk to... good looks would not be bad either... tall, dark, wavy hair, a genuine smile, dimples... My God, Elizabeth! Why ever are you thinking about him? I must be tired.

She shut down the site and said good night to her friends, then closed her computer and lay down. She shook her head and sighed. Oh, Elizabeth. Get to sleep.

* Limited = Limited stops, or even fewer than an Express

Chapter 4

Posted on October 2, 2008

She did not want to admit it, but Elizabeth was looking forward to seeing Will on the train. They seemed to be forming an easy friendship; and while she had resisted the urge to Google her new friend, she read the entire article that began on the front page of the Inquirer, "Darcy Encourages Conservation." The primary focus was his company's encouragement to use public transportation, but the story also mentioned other initiatives the company was taking to help the environment and conserve natural resources. Accompanying the article was a picture of Will and Charlie that looked like it had been taken at Suburban Station the day before. If she could remember correctly, she had probably been in the frame, but had gratefully been cropped out.

The article definitely put Will Darcy and his company in a good light, and she was pleased for her new friend... until she saw him walking towards her.

Bearing a very dark mien, he took his seat next to her with scarcely a hello. Charlie turned around. "Saw it, huh?"

Will sat stiffly and closed his eyes at the remark, not moving another muscle. Elizabeth watched curiously. Finally he growled, "How could I not? If I had not been alerted to it before I left the house, I certainly saw enough people with the paper at the station... And if somehow I had been blind enough to miss that, I certainly noticed all the stares and surreptitious glances."

Charlie looked at him blankly. "It was very favorable; made you and the company look great."

"I've read it. My understanding was that DI wouldn't be the only company featured. And I certainly wasn't told that my picture would be on the front page."

"You could check with legal, but I expect they were fully within their rights. I'd say just deal with it. The publicity is good for the company, and no one will think much about your picture in a day or two, if they even really noticed it today."

Will nodded his head, grumbling, "I suppose."

Charlie turned to Elizabeth. "Did you read it?"

She nodded. "Yeah, before you got on. I thought it was good." She paused for a quick moment and bit her lip. "It should be good for the company. I only knew about the public transit stuff because you showed up." She turned to Will. "I had no idea your company supported telecommuting and flextime."

Will looked at her and nodded, and she continued. "And as for the focus on you taking the train, it didn't say where you live, which stop you get off at, or even which line you ride. I think the picture is rather good, and if your perspective is that you don't want to be recognized, it's not like they used a close-up.

"To tell you the truth, I think you're acting rather foolish about this."

Charlie laughed, and Will started at the comment. Examining Elizabeth's expression, Will finally replied, "I suppose I am... I'd just prefer it if they'd focus on the company, and not me."

Elizabeth had to laugh; now he sounded childish. "I think that goes with the territory, Will. You're the figurehead; you get publicity from time to time."

His mood was lightening. With a purposeful pout, he answered, "It doesn't mean I have to like it."

Grinning broadly, Elizabeth conceded that he did not.

With Will much more relaxed, he and Elizabeth sat quietly for the short remainder of the trip, while Charlie returned his attention to Jane.

As Charlie and Will approached their office, Will remembered to ask, "Hey, do you know anything about routers?"

Charlie looked at him as though it was a rather odd question. "Not at all, why?"

"Georgie can't get files from the computer at home. She tried to walk me through some stuff, but I couldn't get it to work for her. She ordered me to get someone out to fix it."

Charlie laughed. "I can't believe you sat next to the most brilliant technical mind on the east coast for half an hour and were too busy pouting to ask her for help."

Will looked at his friend as though he thought him mental. "I can't ask Elizabeth for help."

"Why not?"

"I only just met her."

"And?"

Will shook his head. "I can't just ask a favor like that; so I'd have to offer to pay her. Then..."

Suddenly he realized that Charlie was on his cell phone. "Hey Lizzy, Will's got a problem."

"That doesn't surprise me. So why are you telling me?"

"It's his router on his home computer. Here, let me put him on." Charlie handed the phone to Will.

Glaring angrily at his friend, Will accepted the phone. "Hi... Elizabeth?"

"Yeah, what's up?"

He had to think of something to say. "Uhm, my sister's at school, in California; uhm summer session. She needs to get files off our home computer, but for some reason she can't connect. She had me look at the settings and tried to tell me how to change some things, but it still doesn't work.."

"Okay?" Elizabeth had to encourage him to go on.

"Well... Georgie tried to walk me through the right settings, but it still didn't work... She says I need to get someone to look at it right away. I wasn't going to ask..."

He heard an elevator ding over the line. "I can look at it. I'm getting in the elevator, so you'll probably lose me. Get Charlie to give you my number and call me back in five minutes."

"Okay." Will looked blankly at the phone for a moment and handed it back to Charlie. "She says for me to call back in a few minutes."

Charlie gave him the number, and they went their separate ways. Once he was settled into his office, Will called Elizabeth, and tried to explain the problem again.

"It doesn't sound like a big deal, but I don't work with that router brand very often. I can look up their website and see if they have anything that can point you in the right direction."

Will nearly stuttered, "Oh, okay."

"Or if you think it would be better, I could come by and look at it," she offered.

He thought for a moment. "That might be best, but I hate to put you out."

Elizabeth laughed. "It doesn't sound so bad. I don't mind. I'll get your address from you on the train and swing by later?"

Will smiled to himself. "That sounds good. Thanks."

Mid-afternoon, he called her again, but got her voice mail. "Hi... Elizabeth. It's Will Darcy. I was thinking that it would take less time for you if you went with me to my place from the train. I could take you home afterwards. I wouldn't mind, and it would hopefully be less of an imposition... You can call me back at  215-555-3533 , or we can talk about it on the train home. Bye."

Elizabeth had been in meetings or running around all afternoon, so it was nearly time to leave when she finally checked her messages. There wasn't much point in her calling him back then.

She didn't see him when she reached the train platform, but he startled her by walking up behind her a few minutes later. When she turned, she smiled. "Hey, I'm sorry I didn't get your voice mail until a few minutes ago."

Jane looked at them curiously. Voice mail?

"It's okay." He smiled back. "I printed out directions from Thorndale if you need them; it's pretty easy to find. But as you're doing me a huge favor, I'd really be very happy to take you to my place, then drive you home. It'll take less of your time that way."

"Glad you're going to help poor Will here," interjected Charlie. "He might be more hopeless than me when it comes to computers." Jane then made the connection, recalling that Charlie and Will had called Elizabeth for assistance that morning.

The train was pulling in, so Will ignored his friend, more interested in staying near Elizabeth and finding a seat together. Once situated, they resumed their conversation. "I'd hate to have to put you out though. I suppose you could always drop me off back at the train station..."

Darcy laughed. "You are far too nice. I'd really be very happy to take you home. While I don't have your exact address, Google Maps says it shouldn't take more than half an hour. So you'll come?" He tried not to break eye contact as he chastised himself, Stop acting so damn eager!

"Okay, fine." She gave a tiny laugh. "Let me text Jane," she said, reaching for her Blackberry. "Then tell me more about this problem."

He told her about Georgiana's music and all the video files they had on the home computer; far too many to keep on her laptop at school. He explained what they had tried on the phone last night and that she still hadn't been able to connect.

Elizabeth told him she didn't think it would be very difficult, then moved on to ask more about his sister. He spoke of her practically with fatherly pride, as he mentioned her music scholarship to USC and of her many talents. "She'd kill me, but I'll have to show you some of her videos; she was quite the little prodigy."

At Paoli station, they got into his gray Audi S6 and easily followed back roads towards Valley Forge Mountain. Elizabeth was surprised that Will seemed to dominate the conversation, but in discussing his sister, she had found a subject on which he was uninhibited.

She gasped lightly when he turned on General Alexander Drive. "Wow, I figured you had a nice house, but I didn't imagine you'd live up here."

"The house is certainly a lot bigger than we need, but my parents bought it in 1990, so it's practically the only home I know." He pulled the car up the driveway and into the garage; hopping out to get her door before she even had a chance to open it herself.

They were met at the door by a very happy chocolate lab. "This is my welcoming committee, also known as Hershey." He patted the dog's head as he tried to force their way in past him.

Elizabeth noticed the delicious smells coming from the kitchen and realized for the first time, they were not alone; something further proven as Will called out, "I'm home. Dinner smells wonderful."

He had scarcely finished the statement when a young buxom blonde appeared, making a beeline for him with her arms extended. "Will, you're home!

Chapter 5

Posted on October 6, 2008

"Tiffany!" Will responded with apparent warmth as he embraced the young woman.

Ugh! I should have known! thought Elizabeth. I suppose all rich men have their playthings. She had to look away.

"What are you doing here?" he asked the woman.

There was an annoying amount of bounce in her voice. "A bunch of us are going to spend a few days in Rehoboth; Brian's dad has a house there. But you know Grandma would freak if we drove through the area and I didn't spend a night at home... Oh, and don't worry, I know you would never approve of him staying here with me, so Brian's crashing with one of the other guys tonight." She smiled broadly.

As she spoke, a tiny, olive-skinned woman entered the room wiping her hands on a towel. "Ah good, you're here. I see you did bring your friend." She smiled warmly as she approached.

"Yes." He turned to Elizabeth. "This is Elizabeth Bennet, technical genius. Elizabeth, may I introduce my housekeeper, Margherita Reynolds, and her granddaughter Tiffany."

"Nice to meet you," replied Elizabeth politely, though part of her wanted to cringe at her earlier thoughts.

"It's Maggie. And yes, you too." The older woman effused warmth in a grandmotherly way. "Dinner will be ready in about twenty minutes. I do hope you plan to eat with us?"

Elizabeth looked up at Darcy, who bore a small smile, a light blush, and shrugged his shoulders. "I'd be happy to," she replied.

"I'll call you when it's ready. You'll be in the office?" She looked at Will.

"Yes, thank you, Maggie."

Will led Elizabeth to the back of the house and into the office. She couldn't help but notice the family pictures along the hall and in every room she'd seen; most were of Will and a much younger blonde girl, who had to be Georgiana.

She sat down at the desk and Will gave her the router password as he sat down on the other side, never taking his eyes off her. It only took a couple of minutes before she emitted a quiet, "Aha."

"It's something really stupid, isn't it?" he asked sheepishly.

She looked up at him and smiled. "It's just a check box, but it's not really obvious. I think it should work now."

He looked at her curiously as she turned and pulled her notebook from its case. She noticed and answered his unasked question. "I have a broadband card, so this'll tell us if it's working now."

Elizabeth was able to get FTP and Remote Desktop connections, glad that it all worked. Will pushed a button on the desk phone and walked around the desk, kneeling beside Elizabeth as he took over the mouse.

The phone was answered after two rings: "Hey Will."

"Thank Elizabeth," he said as he looked through files on the computer.

"Uhm... Thank you, Elizabeth?" responded a very tentative voice.

Elizabeth looked at Will, who glanced up from the monitor with a mischievous smile. Wondering what he was doing, Elizabeth made herself answer Georgiana, "Hi there, and you're welcome." Her voice was only a bit surer.

"Does this mean you fixed my computer?"

"I did," replied Elizabeth as a video file began playing. To the sound of applause, an adorable little blonde girl curtseyed in front of a piano and climbed up onto the bench. She couldn't have been older than six.

"What are you doing, Will?" asked Georgiana as the computer speakers emitted the recognizable strains of Beethoven's Für Elise. "You are not playing... You are! Why are you playing videos of me? At five no less!"

Will grinned broadly, quite pleased with himself as Elizabeth watched the screen. "Because you were incredibly cute back then. Elizabeth's a friend... well, I only met her a few days ago, but she's been a friend of Charlie's for a while. I'm told she set up his home computers."

Für Elise was cut off as a new video began. Georgiana, as a statuesque girl of probably eighteen, sat at the piano and began Schubert...

"Well, at least this one isn't so embarrassing! So it all works now?"

"Yup. We've tested it, but feel free to check it yourself if you can," answered Elizabeth.

"Not near a computer. I'll take your word for it. You're an absolute lifesaver, Elizabeth. Thank you!"

With a smile that could easily be heard in her voice, Elizabeth replied, "It was no problem at all. This video is amazing. You're incredible."

A small "Thank you," came from the phone as Maggie walked in the door.

Will closed the video and said, "Maggie's here. I suspect dinner's ready."

Georgiana laughed. "I guess I still can't stand between you and dinner. I have to run too." Then raising her voice, she called out, "Hi, Mrs. R!"

"Hi, Georgiana. I'll talk to you later, hon."

"K... Bye, love you guys." Georgiana's voice chirped before the line clicked off.

Elizabeth made a quick call to Jane to let her know she would be out later than planned; and a few minutes later, Elizabeth was seated at the dinner table with Will, Maggie and Tiffany. The chicken cacciatore was delicious, and she enjoyed hearing stories of Will's escapades as a youth (Maggie had apparently "joined the family" when he was four) and of how Tiffany had moved in after her father died in a car accident. She was now in the pre-med program at [url=http://matrix.scranton.edu/academics/ac_su_preprofessional.shtml">Scranton.

After more than an hour, Maggie declared the meal had long been over. Elizabeth insisted on helping clear the dishes, which was completed in one trip to the kitchen by the four of them. Maggie adamantly refused more assistance, and as they walked back to the living room, Will asked, "Do you have to get home, or could I interest you in the dime tour?"

"I'd have thought you'd tired of my company by now," she teased, "but if you can tolerate me longer, I'd love to see more."

They wandered from room to room, and other than running her hand along the full grand piano and playing a few notes, Elizabeth showed little interest in the furnishings. "I love all these pictures," she said finally.

"I suppose it makes the place still look more like my parents' house than mine, but I can't imagine them gone... although I have replaced some of mine with pictures of Georgie." He grinned.

"I always envisioned the houses up here being so big and impersonal. Well, I guess this is big, but this really feels like a home."

"I can't imagine living anywhere else." Will's eyes took on a distant gaze. "We moved here after Mom was diagnosed with cancer, and I refused to go to boarding school like my father wanted. The school district here is consistently the highest rated in the state..." Elizabeth put her hand on his forearm, and he looked into her eyes. "The only thing I've changed was having the master bedroom redone several months after Dad died..."

She squeezed his arm a little. "I don't think anything needs changing."

They stood quietly for a minute before Will seemed to regroup and said, "Well, I guess that's about it. You ready to go home?"

Elizabeth was a little surprised, but had to admit she had been there some time. "Sure. My notebook's still in your office."

They collected her computer and said good night to Maggie and Tiffany. They were soon on the road to Thorndale, and an awkward silence hovered over them. At last Elizabeth recollected his eagerness in speaking of his sister. "Georgiana seemed very nice," she started. "And the videos you played - she's very talented."

"That she is. Even before she ever had lessons, she would sit there and make up songs. She can play the piano for hours and never seem to tire of it."

Thus the ice was broken, and they chatted easily the rest of the trip. When they got close, they ended their conversation as she gave him directions. Finally she said, "Pull into that driveway on the right."

He parked his car behind a silver Audi A4 with the license 1110 BEE. He shut off the engine and turned to face Elizabeth. "Nice car... What's the plate mean?"

Elizabeth stared at her car for a moment. "You'll laugh. It's very geeky."

"I guess I can't promise that I won't laugh, but now you have to tell me."

She blushed a little. "One, one, one, zero is the computer equivalent to the letter E. It just says 'EB.'"

"Cute," was all he said in reply.

Elizabeth started to move, and Will reached towards her and gently grabbed her left arm. She looked up at him, and their eyes met. "Thank you for coming over tonight. You saved me from the wrath of my sister." He smiled weakly.

Their eyes did not break contact as she smiled back. "I'm glad I was able to help. Now I have to thank you for dinner and everything else. I had a very nice time."

Will didn't reply. He didn't know what to say. Elizabeth didn't move. Finally, Will leaned forward until their lips met - and continued to meet. Somewhere along the way, he moved his right hand from her wrist to her waist as her left hand found his shoulder. His left hand found her right and settled in her lap. Neither could explain what was happening, but for some time neither felt compelled to stop.

Suddenly Will pulled away. He looked down at the console between them. "I'm sorry."

Chapter 6

Posted on October 9, 2008

Elizabeth's mind was still reeling, and it took a moment to process his words. "What?" she asked in shock, her mind at a complete loss.

Will blinked. "I didn't mean to kiss you... It was presumptuous."

"Oh," she seemed to say involuntarily. Elizabeth started to pull away... to get away... but somehow, his hand had wrapped around her wrist again.

As she pulled, he stammered, "No, Liz... Please." She stopped and looked up into his eyes. He continued, "I... I'm not seeing anyone... actually not for a while now... And I was attracted to you from the first time I saw you, though I tried to deny it until Charlie hit me in the head." He released his grip and slid his hand down so that his fingers played with hers.

"When I talk to you... I've never felt so comfortable talking to someone that's not an old friend or family. It's like we... click."

Elizabeth still looked confused. "So why the apology then?"

"I like you... a lot... but I don't know your feelings... or if you're seeing anyone... I shouldn't have done it." He dropped his eyes to his lap. "But I liked it."

The car was very quiet. The only sound was their breathing. Finally, she asked, "What if I'm not seeing anyone? And what if... I liked kissing you too?"

He raised his eyes until they met hers again, then with a timid smile suggested, "Then I should probably ask you out on a proper date... How soon are you free?"

She thought for a moment. "Well, I have a family dinner tomorrow night... Dad's birthday. Oh, and Jane and I'll be leaving early, so I won't be on the home train." She frowned as she looked up at him. "Then on Saturday, I'm going shopping with Jane and a friend during the day. My evening's free though."

"May I take you to dinner then? Pick you up here?"

Elizabeth nodded. He grinned like a fool until he leaned towards her again, whispering, "No more apologies."

When they separated this time, both were content. Finally Elizabeth said, "I should probably go in and let you get home."

A small frown began to form on his face. "Yeah, to the interrogation..."

"Interrogation?"

"Georgie and Maggie are most certainly on the phone as we speak, discussing my behavior tonight... I wanted to show you those videos, but I didn't have to tease Georgiana with them... And I hope no one outside the family has ever heard about me trying to take the cat to school in my backpack... and it's never been funny before... They know."

"Is that a bad thing?"

Will smiled as he reached up to brush back a stray strand of hair from her face. "Not at all... but I wouldn't mind a day or so to... savor the thought of it all myself."

"So does that mean that tomorrow morning we should meet as common and indifferent acquaintances?"

"I suppose we should try... though I don't know if I have the fortitude," he teased, making her laugh.

Elizabeth looked at her watch. "Wow. I really should be going in."

Will looked down at her hand, nestled so perfectly in his. "I suppose you must," he replied in a resigned voice. With that, he slowly pulled his hand from beneath hers, then quickly exited the car in order to open her door. He quickly grabbed her other hand as she stepped out of the car. They looked confusedly for a moment before she fell into his arms. I could get used to this, each of them thought.

They were soon walking to the front door, hand in hand. They stopped for a moment and kissed again, beginning to feel a bit like teenagers, before she reached for the doorknob. Once she had the door open the tiniest bit, a huge dog pushed his way out. "Oh, Hamlet. You always have to be in the middle of everything, don't you?"

Will looked between the huge dog and Elizabeth. "Very original."

She smirked, "You should talk." She scratched the dog's ears while Will let him sniff his hand before scratching his jowl. You know... the Great Dane is the state dog of Pennsylvania."

"I didn't know that. Anything else I should know about your horse?"

She smiled broadly. "No, I suppose that's it for this lesson." She stepped backwards, up into the doorway. "I should let you get home to your inquisition."

"Yes, you should," he said before pulling her back out onto the front stoop and kissing her again.

When they finally broke apart, it took a moment to find their bearings. Elizabeth gazed up at him, and with in a faraway whisper, said, "Good night, Will."

Stepping back, he locked eye contact. "Good night, Liz. I ll..uh see you in the morning." He backed away a couple steps more as she stepped up backwards into the house and slowly closed the door. He finally turned towards his car when the door was completely shut. Elizabeth slipped into the dark living room to watch him drive away, and when she could see him no more, she went upstairs.

"Jane, I'm home," she called.

"Hey, sis... I thought you'd be home a while ago," Jane teased lightly.

Elizabeth tried to be nonchalant. "Oh, yeah... we had dinner with Will's housekeeper and her granddaughter. We talked a lot... and he took me on a tour of his house. I had a nice time. Anything much going on here?"

"Nah, just watching one of these summer game shows and chatting." She sounded bored.

"'kay Jane, see ya," Elizabeth replied breezily as she headed towards her room.

Jane went back to her computer.

JaneyBelle: she just came in
CharlieBings: did she say anything?
JaneyBelle: just about dinner with the housekeeper
JaneyBelle: nothing about why they sat in our driveway for half an hour
CharlieBings: u gonna tease her
JaneyBelle: Nah let her have her secrets. We'll know all soon enough
CharlieBings: ur too good
JaneyBelle: Is there really such a thing?
CharlieBings: not for u i suppose
JaneyBelle: *yawn*
JaneyBelle: kk -- lets talk in the am
CharlieBings: kk -- nite janeybelle
JaneyBelle: sweet dreams Charlie
*** JaneyBelle signed off

Elizabeth settled into bed with her computer and checked her e-mail. Nothing interesting. Story updates... only a couple... On a whim, she pulled up Google window 'Fitzwilliam Darcy III photos.' She scrolled through pages upon pages of Will. In most he bore one of those looks which a few days before she might have called stern or indifferent. Now, however, she thought she could see something more in them. Funny how a few kisses could change one's perspective.

Darcy went out of his way to walk past the media room on his way upstairs. Peeking in to see Maggie watching television, he called in, "Tell Georgie to wait a while. I'm going for a swim." He then turned heel and went up to his room to change.

Forty minutes later, he was sitting at the computer in the office when the phone rang. "What a pleasant surprise. I didn't expect you to call so soon, Georgie." He tried another Google search 'Elizabeth Bennet Philadelphia;' tons of hits, none her. 'Elizabeth Bennet Computers,' Nope.

"So tell me all about her, Will," the stern voice came through the line.

"About who?" 'Elizabeth Bennet CBL Investments.'

"Don't play dumb with me, Fitzwilliam Darcy. Miss Elizabeth Bennet!"

"Oh, I met her a few days ago. Charlie says she's a computer genius." He was more distracted than bored. One teensy reference, no picture.

"Stop doing whatever's keeping you from listening to me. You embarrassed me on the phone in front of her. Mrs. R says you almost never took your eyes off her during dinner, and she was nearly as bad. What's going on?"

He clicked various pages on her company's site. There's Jane. He kept clicking from page to page. "I've only known her three days, Georgie. She is very nice, and I think we'll become pretty good friends." Click. No.

"Friends? Would it help if I said I like her? And Mrs. R likes her..."

Click. No. Click. That's her! "I'm very happy to hear that. I gotta go. Night, sis." Click.

He had found a picture of Elizabeth. It was black and white, and tiny. Will grabbed the page as it was fed out of the printer. He'd have to get a bigger picture of her later

Chapter 7

Posted on October 13, 2008

Elizabeth woke with a smile on her face; it took a moment to remember why.

She showered with her favorite gel, grabbed her best jeans, then stood in front of her closet looking at shirts: too warm, to low cut, too high necked, too pink...

Here she was, on Friday, worrying about what to wear, when everyone else would be dressed down from the norm. Why am I doing this!

Finally just grabbing a shirt, she got dressed and went to brush her hair.

I know it won't last five minutes in the office, but I think I'll leave it down for now.

Twenty minutes later she was on the train with her dog-eared copy of A Room with a View. When Charlie got on, he asked how everything had gone at Will's.

"Just fine. It wasn't too big of a problem. I stayed for dinner and met Maggie and her granddaughter," she answered rather nonchalantly.

"So you had a good time?" he pressed.

"I suppose..." She held up her book and tried to get back to reading, making her point that she wasn't in the mood to chat.

A few minutes later, when Will boarded, he noticed her hair and saw her look up with a gleam in her eye that seemed just for him. She smiled and said, "Hey Will," before she buried her head in her book again.

Charlie decided to try his drill again. Sounding quite chipper, he asked, "So, Lizzy took good care of you last night?"

Will broke a small smile. "You could say that." Elizabeth just seemed to be reading her book.

"You guys had a good time?"

Charlie was getting frustrating. "I guess so. She fixed the computer, we had dinner... with Maggie and Tiffany... It was nice." Will tried to keep his voice even.

Giving up, Charlie shifted his focus back to Jane. Will glanced repeatedly at Elizabeth, nose in her book, eyes moving as though she was reading. She had not acknowledged him after her greeting. Did I do something wrong? He was practically staring when he decided to reach over and brush her hand.

She looked up at him, his question obvious in his expression. She smiled coyly. "Common and indifferent, Mr. Darcy." He smiled broadly and took hold of her hand, pulling it down so their joined hands were concealed between them.

They sat silently for a couple minutes; both had things they wanted to say, but would have preferred some privacy rather than the close quarters of a commuter train with her sister and his friend right in front of them. Elizabeth finally started, "It looked like you had a lot of video files on your computer."

Darcy smiled. "We have everything on there. A couple years ago Georgiana spent a good portion of the summer copying our video camera and VHS tapes. We even sent out Dad's old home movies and got them converted. Most of it is Georgie though, I think all of her performances... and she also has a lot of practice videos."

"Must be a pretty big hard drive then. Do you have it backed up? What if something happened to that computer?"

"Georgie has a copy of the hard drive in our safety deposit box; and a couple of CD's of newer stuff... I could have sent her that hard drive!"

Elizabeth smirked. "Two things... One, she probably did not want you shipping her backup drive and putting it at risk... smart girl. And two..." She curled her fingertips and slid her fingers along his. "Are you disappointed with how things worked out?"

He tightened his grip on her hand a little. "I think things turned out the best way possible."

They disengaged their hands as the train headed for their stop. Before he stood up, Will reached into his pocket, pulling out a business card. He handed it to her so she could see the numbers he had handwritten on the back.

She smiled. "You know what to do with a vcard in Outlook?"

"Open it and save it?"

"You got it! I'll send you one when I get to the office." She looked up at him with bright eyes as they both stood up. "Guess I'll talk to you later."

Elizabeth pulled up her e-mail as soon as she got into her office. She opened a new message and attached her personal vcard. She looked at his business card for his address.

To: fdarcy@darcy.com
Subject: Elizabeth Bennet

She had to think for a moment of what to write...

Enjoyed the train in today. We should do it again sometime; though I doubt we will be able to hide it from Jane and Charlie for long...

Guess I'll see you tomorrow night... Feel free to call or e-mail me any time.

Liz

She clicked send, then tried to think about work. Fortunate or not, it didn't take her very long to refocus; a trader was having trouble with his monitors, so she put away her thoughts of Will Darcy as she headed towards the investment center.

A project and two problems later, she was sitting on the floor at someone's desk when her Blackberry beeped. She checked it for new mail.

From: fdarcy@darcy.com
To: ebennet@cblinvestments.com
Subject: Lunch

Don't suppose you're free for lunch today?

Will

She smiled, then clicked reply.

From: ebennet@cblinvestments.com
To: fdarcy@darcy.com
Subject: RE: Lunch

No can do. Meeting. Was hoping for a walk around Rittenhouse Square about 1 though...

Liz

She went back to the computer problem, and her Blackberry beeped again.

From: fdarcy@darcy.com
To: ebennet@cblinvestments.com
Subject: RE: Lunch

Would you mind a companion?

Glad she was used to typing on her Blackberry, she answered.

From: ebennet@cblinvestments.com
To: fdarcy@darcy.com
Subject: RE: Lunch

Meet here? Call me when you're ready to leave your office

She resolved the computer problem and went to her lunch meeting. Darcy called her at 12:50, and she met him in front of her building promptly at one. After warm greetings, he put on a pouting frown. "You put your hair up."

She grinned. "I tried it... Left it down longer than I expected, until I ended up sitting on the ground, opening a computer case. You could say it's one of the hazards of the job. I don't want to cut it, so I have to pull it back."

"Well, I can imagine it might get in the way, but I thought your hair looked very pretty this morning." As they walked down Chestnut, Elizabeth realized their hands had become intertwined without her even noticing. They talked a little about their mornings and began to stroll lazily around the park, watching the artists and street musicians, kids, other strolling businesspeople and many people eating their lunch on benches surrounded by rock doves.

"Do you have any thoughts on tomorrow night?" he asked after a long, comfortable silence. "Would six be okay? Or seven?"

She was secretly pleased by the eagerness in his voice. "Anytime's fine. Six will do."

He smiled. "I'll make the reservations for seven then... I was thinking of someplace casual, but nice..." A few steps later he continued the topic. "To be perfectly honest, my last few dates were at corporate or charity social events, so I'm a bit rusty. Did you want to do something other than dinner? A movie perhaps?"

Picking up his uneasiness, she offered, "We don't have to have an agenda. Let's just start with dinner and play the rest of the evening by ear?"

He squeezed her hand. "That sounds good."

The continued their walk, occasionally commenting on whatever came to mind. Soon they were headed back towards Elizabeth's office. "This was really nice," Will said. "Do you do this often?"

"As often as I can... Not when it's too hot or too cold... then there's days when I just don't have the time. It's a nice break though."

When they reached the front of the building, Will released her hand. Suddenly it all seemed awkward. "I guess I should get back to my office," he said in a low voice.

"Yeah, me too," she replied softly.

Neither moved. "God, I want to kiss you," he blurted, still in a low voice. "But not here..." He suddenly stood straighter and taller and spoke evenly. "I don't think there's any way I can make your early train tonight. I guess I'll see you tomorrow evening then."

"Yes. Tomorrow..." She looked up at him, her eyes wide and unblinking. "See ya, Will," she said quietly and quickly disappeared.

He stood there a moment, as though waking from a dream, before he turned and walked briskly back to his office.

Will started watching the clock on his computer at 4:00. Elizabeth would be on the 4:08 train, and he would not be.

When the R5 pulled into Suburban Station at 4:07, Elizabeth looked around, hoping Jane wouldn't notice. Will was still probably ensconced in his large, executive office.

A little over an hour later, the sisters were in Jane's car heading towards their parents' house in Coatesville, and Elizabeth briefly wondered if Will was on the Flyer.

Jane and Elizabeth enjoyed dinner with their family and got home a little after ten. Once they said their good nights, they went to their rooms and logged into their computers.

Elizabeth had only been on a few minutes, and was still checking her e-mails when a Yahoo Messenger window popped up.

WillJDar: Hi
Lizzy1011: Will?
WillJDar: Yeah
Lizzy1011: I never took you for a chatter...

She waited for a response. The status bar showed, WillJDar is typing a message.

WillJDar: We have something like this interoffice.
WillJDar is typing a message.
WillJDar: This is my first time online though.
Lizzy1011: you haven't used yahoo im before?
WillJDar is typing a message.
WillJDar: I just figured it out tonight.
Lizzy1011: :-) 4 me?
WillJDar: Yes
WillJDar: What is :-) ?
Lizzy1011: LOL
Lizzy1011: If it doesn't look like a little happy face, u must have emoticons turned off
Lizzy1011: look at it sideways
Lizzy1011: and before you ask LOL is laughing out loud. Yes, I'm laughing at you
WillJDar is typing a message.
WillJDar: Some teacher you are, laughing at your student.
Lizzy1011: I'm sorry
WillJDar: :-(
WillJDar: Is that right?
Lizzy1011: yup! See you're getting better

WillJDar is typing a message. displayed in the status bar for a long time.

WillJDar: I missed you tonight. Charlie's a good friend, but I like sitting next to you more. :-(
Lizzy1011: Me too
WillJDar is typing a message.
WillJDar: This is nice, but can I call you?
WillJDar is typing a message.
WillJDar: I'd rather hear your voice.
Lizzy1011: Cell number, don't bother Jane

They talked for over an hour about nothing of great importance. Elizabeth started yawning and noticed the clock at nearly midnight, so they said good night and looked forward to their date tomorrow night.

Chapter 8

Posted on October 16, 2008

"Let's go, Lizzy!" called Jane, who was apparently ready to leave.

"Just a sec," replied Elizabeth, ready, but sitting at her computer. She had quickly checked a couple of sites and read her e-mail. Now she sat staring at the open Thunderbird window.

She clicked on the Write button and stared at the blank page for a moment before she began to type.

To: fjd3@comcast.net
Subj: Hi

Jane is waiting, but wanted to say hi. Looking forward to tonight.

xoxo
L

Elizabeth read through it, deleted the ‘xoxo' and clicked Send before habitually locking her computer and turning off her monitor, then leaving her room.

Twenty minutes later, Jane and Elizabeth met their friend Charlotte at the Exton Square Mall. They mostly window shopped, though Jane did buy a new suit at Ann Taylor.

"Oh, while we're here, I need to run into Sears." Elizabeth surprised the others. "We need vacuum bags."

Charlotte looked disappointedly at her. "Only you would think of vacuum bags."

"Well, we need them, we're here..." She was tempted to stick out her tongue. "I'll only be a few minutes, and we can meet in front of Hollister."

When she returned, her bag was much larger than expected. Charlotte stared her down curiously.

"So, I found a skirt I liked... on sale." Elizabeth shrugged.

"And since when do you wear skirts?" Charlotte asked.

"Not often, I know, they're too much trouble at work. I just saw it as I walked through, and I liked it."

"We've been shopping for almost two hours and you haven't seemed interested at all," retorted her friend.

"Maybe because you like to shop at those trendy stores that spray perfume all over everyone and everything, and I really don't need dress suits like Jane," Elizabeth replied smartly. "I'd just as soon do something else."

"Why don't we see a movie?" suggested Jane, unable to tolerate even friendly, feigned tension.

"Ooh!" squealed Charlotte. "Maybe something with Colin Firth. I think he's in a couple out right now."

"You really have a thing for him, don't you?" teased Elizabeth.

"Why not? He's gorgeous." Charlotte squirmed. "You know, I bet he'd be great in one of those English lit stories you like so much. Maybe a Freddy Wentworth or Mr. Knightley. Oh! I bet he'd be so sexy in breeches!"

"Not Wentworth. Maybe Knightley." Elizabeth laughed. "Remember a few years ago when we took Lyddie and Maria to see What a Girl Wants? He did make that movie bearable; and I'll never forget those leather pants!"

All three laughed and continued teasing each other as they left for the theater.

While they stood in line, Elizabeth's phone vibrated. She looked at the text message.

6:00 W

She grinned, and it did not go unnoticed. "What's up, sis?" asked Jane.

"Geek stuff," she replied, knowing it would quell their interest. Jane and Charlotte looked at each other and shrugged.

Will had started his day with energy to burn. He and Hershey hiked the Mt. Misery and Valley Creek Trails, then he went for a swim when he got home. Somehow, he still felt restless and couldn't understand why.

He wandered aimlessly from room to room, finally deciding to do something on the computer. He opened his e-mail and was surprised to see a message from Elizabeth. He smiled as he read it and immediately clicked the reply button... But she's out... What do do... He glanced at his Treo sitting on the desk. She'd have her phone with her... He pulled up her contact info, jotted off a short text message and sent it.

Will read the rest of his new messages and clicked a few favorite links. Nothing held his interest.

Perhaps there's something on TV. He went back to the media room and started flipping through the channels... He stopped for a moment on one of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. Georgie liked them, and his cousin, Rich, liked that actress, What's her name? Well, the character's name is... Elizabeth. Would everything remind him of her?

As the girls left the theater, Charlotte asked, "Wanna go over and check out some shops at Main Street and get some dinner?"

"Sounds good," answered Jane.

"No can do," said Elizabeth.

"What?" her sister asked, confused.

"I can't do dinner. I have plans."

"Plans?"

Elizabeth's face got a shade pinker as she tried not to smile too broadly. "Yes, plans. I have a date."

"A date?" Jane and Charlotte gasped in unison, shocked.

"Yes."

Jane looked at her quizzically. "Will?"

Elizabeth nodded. "Yes. And he's picking me up at six, so I should get home. You can go with Charlotte if she doesn't mind bringing you home..."

Surprise was still apparent on Jane's face, and it took her a moment to answer. "I suppose I could... what do you want to do, Char?"

"I don't mind taking you home. It's up to you."

Jane deliberated for a while. "Are you sure you know what you're doing, Lizzy?" When Elizabeth responded with certainty, Jane acquiesced and decided to stay with Charlotte. Elizabeth headed home alone.

Once there, she looked around, trying to decide what to do. She took Hamlet for a walk, then started getting ready. She put on her new full skirt and a white eyelet blouse and brushed her hair, deciding to leave it down. Elizabeth was ready at 5:30.

She tried to occupy herself, but it was a very long half hour until the doorbell rang, promptly at six. Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth walked slowly towards the door, where Hamlet was eager to greet their guest.

Pushing her dog back a bit, Elizabeth opened the door. Neither moved for a long moment as they took in each other's appearance. Will looked as handsome as ever in his khaki pants and dark blue shirt, holding a single long stemmed red rose.

"Come on in, unless we need to leave right now. I'm ready."

"Okay." He still didn't move. "You look beautiful, Elizabeth."

"Thank you." She blushed. "Not bad looking yourself."

"Uh, thanks," he mumbled as he finally stepped through the doorway. Of course, at this point he had no choice but to greet Hamlet. He scratched the huge dog's ears and was eventually allowed in enough for Elizabeth to close the door.

Will bent down and kissed her cheek, then handed her the rose as they stepped into the living room. She thanked him and smelled the rose before slipping it into the middle of a vase of garden roses, where it towered over its companions. "I'll find it a home of its own later." She smiled up at Will. "Would you like to sit for a while? Or do we need to leave soon?" She paused, but he did not answer immediately. Why am I suddenly nervous? "I'm ready to go. I just need to set the alarm."

"Alarm? Jane's not here?" he questioned.

She shook her head no and replied, "She decided to stay out with Charlotte; I came home..."

Before she knew what was happening, she was in his arms and he was kissing her. It was tentative at first, but it completely interrupted her train of thought. He paused, and they gazed closely at one another, then he lowered his lips to hers once again, where they were eagerly met. When they stopped to breathe, they found themselves in a close embrace. Elizabeth rested her head on his chest as Will rubbed her back.

"I have longed for that since I left here Thursday night," he whispered in her hair. She nodded her head in concurrence. "We should probably go," he continued.

"Yeah," she quietly agreed. She left his arms and walked the three steps back into the foyer, then set the alarm. Will took her hand as she closed front door and he walked her to the car.

Once they were on their way, he asked, "So, how was shopping?"

"Good. We haven't seen Char in a while, so it was nice spending the day with her."

They continued to talk of inconsequential things as he drove, and twenty minutes later, they pulled into the parking lot of Spread Eagle Village. The lot was rather full, and they walked to [url=http://www.georgesonthemainline.com/">georges' hand in hand.

They were seated immediately and attended promptly by their waiter. Will inquired as to Elizabeth's wine preferences, then ordered a bottle of Clos du Bois Chardonnay while they looked at their menus. After they placed their orders, Will tried to phrase what was on his mind.

"Elizabeth?" She met his eye and nodded. "I've realized, and knowing myself, it's hard to believe, but I've told you much more about me and my family than almost anyone... But I don't really know much about you..."

She looked down, her face a bit pink. "There's not a lot to know. I'm sure your life has been a lot more interesting than mine; and I like listening to you."

"Why don't you let me be the judge? I already know you're smart, kind, beautiful, and unusually easy to ramble on about everything to." He grinned boyishly as her face grew redder.

"Well, I'm the second of five sisters, no brothers. Jane is the eldest; Mary's at Penn State studying mathematics, she's the quiet one; and Kitty and Lydia still have a lot of growing up to do." She went on, including that she was high school valedictorian and had a full scholarship to Penn; and also about living and working with Jane.

When he asked about her parents, she told him, "Dad's a chemist at Sartomer. He wasn't a very involved parent overall, but we've always been close. I think I'm the only one that gets his wit sometimes... Mom had all the responsibility of raising us, which I think got to be too much for her; hence the differences between Jane and me and our youngest sisters. Of course, now her goal is to get us all married off. In fact, if she was to see us tonight, she'd already be planning our wedding and naming..." She was instantly scarlet and could find no place to look.

"Our children? We did that already, honey... at least Bennet, John and Robert. Though we're not really going to name our daughter Moon Unit, are we?" He laughed and reached for her hand.

Tears had begun forming in her eyes, but his warm hand and gentle teasing forced the corners of her lips to lift.

They continued to talk, and he convinced her to try the Chocolate Pecan Torte with their coffee. They did not notice the time passing, and it was nearly ten when they left.

Before he started the car, Will grumbled, "There aren't a lot of options at this time of night..."

"Well, Jane'll probably be expecting me home soon anyhow... Maybe if I invite you in, it'll delay her inquest," Elizabeth thought aloud.

Will leaned over and kissed her quickly. "I'd be honored to protect you."

A half hour later, they were greeted by a happy Hamlet. Elizabeth noted the lights and the sound of the TV in the den. "Yup, she's laying in wait," she whispered loudly.

They held hands as she led him through the house, and neither pulled away as they entered the room. "Hey, Jane," Elizabeth greeted her sister casually.

"Hey, sis," Jane replied; then she spotted her sister's companion. "Oh, hi Will." She hoped neither noticed the deep breath she took to calm her surprise. "You guys have a nice time?"

Will and Elizabeth sat on the sofa, still not disengaging their hands. "Very nice," Elizabeth answered as Will nodded his head in agreement. She then told her sister about the restaurant and the food.

Elizabeth could tell that Will was uncomfortable; he seemed to be making an effort to talk, but his words did not flow easily. He was also sitting quite stiffly and occasionally his fingers twitched. Elizabeth decided she had to rescue him. "Anyhow, we wanted to talk some more. I guess we'll go sit out back." She started to get up.

"Okay," Jane answered quickly. "Or you can stay here... I'm going to bed." She stood and headed towards the door. "And don't worry, you're not running me off. Good night."

Jane practically ran to her room; she had no idea what to think. Sitting down at her computer, she launched her messenger program. Please be online.

JaneyBelle: youll never guess whos in my den
CharlieBings: Lizzy?
JaneyBelle: Part right
CharlieBings: who else
JaneyBelle: will
CharlieBings: will what?
JaneyBelle: Will Darcy
CharlieBings: Will and Lizzy?
JaneyBelle: Yeah, they had a date
JaneyBelle: I left them holding hands in the den
CharlieBings: Will and Lizzy?
JaneyBelle: YES!
CharlieBings: I knew he liked her!
JaneyBelle: what do I do?
CharlieBings: What can you do. Leave them alone
JaneyBelle: but
CharlieBings: I've known Will forever
CharlieBings: theyll be fine
JaneyBelle: but
CharlieBings: Janey, leave them be. Tell me about your day.
JaneyBelle: :-(
CharlieBings: Janey
JaneyBelle: oh kay...
JaneyBelle: well we went...

Will and Elizabeth sat awkwardly for a minute after Jane left. Finally she asked, "Would you like some coffee? Or a glass of wine?

He pulled her hand towards himself. "No, thanks. Just you."

She was seated in his lap before she realized how she had gotten there. He kissed her softly, then let her get situated.

With her nestled comfortably, they talked a little, then kissed some more, then watched a few minutes of the news when it came on. She would have had to get up to get the remote, so whatever was on remained.

Eventually their kissing became quite passionate, and everything else was forgotten. It all felt so right.

Elizabeth's stomach fluttered when she felt Will's hand sliding up her calf, under her skirt. She might have trembled a bit, but tried not to let her nervousness show as she buried her fingers in his hair and lost all sense of time and place.

It was nearly three when Jane returned to the room. "Elizabeth!"

Chapter 9

Posted on October 21, 2008

Will and Elizabeth both woke with a start at Jane's exclamation. He still had his arm wrapped around Elizabeth's waist, and his other hand rested on her bare thigh. Their eyes met, and he quickly removed his hand and loosened his hold on her before she looked groggily up to her sister. "We must have fallen asleep."

"Apparently." Jane said coolly as she stood with her hands on her hips.

Elizabeth quickly stood up, trying to hide her red cheeks, and with her back to her sister tried to stretch out the kinks that had not bothered her while in Will's arms. Will stretched his legs out in front of him and seemed almost as though he was going to try and reach his toes before lifting his tall frame from the sofa. After a moment, he reached for Elizabeth's hand. "I should probably go," he said to her quietly.

"You will do no such thing," admonished Jane. Elizabeth knew that tone well; she called it Jane's mother hen voice. "I will not let you wake up in the middle of the night and get behind the wheel of a car. We have a perfectly good guest room."

"Yes, Will, please stay," Elizabeth added her plea.

He quickly submitted to the entreaties of the two women, and Elizabeth took him upstairs to the guest bedroom, then showed him the bathroom, where she pulled a new toothbrush from a drawer and handed it to him. "Night, Will," she said quietly, before standing on her toes and kissing his cheek.

"Night, Liz," he replied, with a smile, before she disappeared through another door.

Will's phone rang, waking him just after 6:30. Recognizing the ring tone, he sleepily answered, "Good morning, Maggie."

"And where might you be, Fitzwilliam Darcy?" asked a rather incensed voice.

"I spent the night at Elizabeth's," he answered, now completely awake.

"Tell me you did not put upon her, Fitzwilliam! Lizzy is a good girl!" Not unexpectedly, her South Philly roots were apparent in every word.

"Yes, Margherita, Elizabeth is a good girl; and no, I did not put upon her. We talked late into the night until her sister came down and refused to let me drive home, insisting I stay in the guest room."

"Lizzy's sister is very smart. I'm glad you listened!" There was a small sigh and her tone shifted a little closer to her normal voice. "I've let Hershey out, so there's no reason to rush home."

"Okay, I'll see you when I get there."

He sat, looking around the room, unable to decide what to do. The house seemed quiet and he didn't want to wake Elizabeth or Jane.

After a few minutes, he got up and looked out the window. It overlooked the backyard which looked green and well tended. A movement caught his eye, and he spied Elizabeth's horse dog. Someone must be up, at least.

He dressed quickly and then quietly went downstairs, easily finding the kitchen. In his stocking-clad feet, his approach went unnoticed, so he paused for a moment to watch Elizabeth sitting at the kitchen table, reading the paper with one foot tucked underneath her and the other pulled up in front of her. She was adorable in her cut-offs and yellow tank top.

Will must have made a noise as he began walking again, because Elizabeth suddenly looked up with a broad smile. "Hey," she greeted.

"Hey yourself." He bent down and kissed her. Not a bad way to start the morning.

"There's coffee." She pointed to the counter where an empty mug sat by the coffee maker. "We don't keep cream on hand, but there's milk in the fridge if you'd like."

He poured a cup and sat down at the table. "No, this is good," he said with a grin, noticing the single red rose in a tall bud vase sitting in the center of the table.

Elizabeth set down her paper. "Are you always an early riser?"

"Usually... Hershey makes sure of it; though today I was still asleep when Maggie called.

"Oh?" She tilted her head.

"I always tell her if I won't be home, but I couldn't very well call her at 3 AM."

Elizabeth nodded her head with a small sigh. "I suppose Jane and I still keep tabs on..."

She was interrupted by a bang on the screen door. "Oh, hang on, you lug," she called as she got up to let in Hamlet.

Will watched her as she walked to the door. This was the first time he had actually seen her legs, and for a short woman, they seemed very long.

They tried to resume their conversation when she sat back down, but it was difficult over the sound of Hamlet noisily lapping up a large volume of water. Hamlet then walked around Will and nudged his way under the table, flopping at their feet. Will fought to restrain a chuckle as Elizabeth's eyes glimmered, watching him.

Some time later, when Jane reached the bottom of the stairs, she heard Will's laugh. More surprising than the sound was the scene that greeted her when she stopped in the kitchen doorway.

"You cannot be serious, Liz!" Will teased as he stood, chopping something on the kitchen counter.

"I am, I assure you." Elizabeth said as she walked from the sink to the refrigerator, running her hand across his back as she went by him.

He looked up towards her with a teasing grin. "I guess I should try to stay in your good graces then."

After taking out the box of eggs, Elizabeth turned and spied her sister. "Hey Jane."

"Morning Lizzy, Will," she answered, walking towards the coffee pot.

"We're making omelets if you'd like one," Elizabeth offered.

"Sure," Jane replied. "Sounds good." She sat at the table, lightly resting her feet atop the sleeping dog, and watched Will Darcy and her sister working together easily to prepare breakfast.

As they ate, Elizabeth realized that Will had gotten quieter since Jane's arrival, though he was making a visible effort not to withdraw. She was surprised, however, by Jane's reserve, and felt compelled to carry the conversation.

"Will has invited us to his house this afternoon... Just to hang out and to stay for dinner if you're interested." Elizabeth told her sister, who did not answer immediately.

"Yes," Will added, almost surprised to hear himself speak. "I was just thinking that if you two weren't doing anything... and my only plans are to cook dinner, probably on the barbecue... that you might want to come over..." He watched Jane watching him as he spoke. "I was thinking of calling Charlie too..."

It was the most Will Darcy had ever said to Jane. She looked from Will to Elizabeth, debating. "Okay, sure," she finally said, not really certain it was okay.

"Good!" He actually smiled, Jane noticed. "Bring swimsuits... and clothes and rackets for tennis if you play..."

After a rather long pause, Elizabeth realized it was again left to her to do most of the talking until they were done eating. Shortly thereafter, Will suggested he should probably leave.

Elizabeth walked him to the front door, their fingers instinctually finding each other's and entwining for the short walk. Once there, Will pulled her into his embrace and kissed her forehead. When she looked up, their lips met, and his departure took longer than expected. He did eventually leave, both of them pleased they would see one another in a few short hours.

Jane was looking out the back door when Elizabeth returned, and turned when she heard her sister's footsteps. "What the hell is going on here?" she demanded.

Elizabeth looked at her, stunned. It had been a very long time since she had heard that tone of voice from her sister. "With Will and me?"

"Obviously." Jane responded, quite perturbed.

"I can't say for sure," she said quietly as she began to collect the dishes from the table.. After a long unanswered pause, she continued, "I do have a theory. But you won't like it."

"Try me."

"I realize I haven't even known him a whole week..." Elizabeth took the plates to the sink, then turned back to face her sister. "But I think I'm in love with him."

Jane looked at Elizabeth in shock. "That's insane, Lizzy." Her voice rose with every word. "You don't even know him."

"A week ago I would have agreed, but there's no other way to explain how I feel." She looked at her hands as she leaned against the counter.

"The man had his hand up your skirt. I think he's looking for more than a little romance and affection."

Elizabeth stood straight again. "I know exactly where his hand was; and it wasn't anywhere indecent. Did you notice where my hands were?"

Jane stared at her sister, awed by her revelations. Her mouth agape, she shook her head no.

"I'll admit, I have never been more inclined to just surrender to physical impulses..."

"Have you lost your mind? You need to think about this, Lizzy!"

"I'm still me, Jane. Don't you think I have?" She needed to do something, so she picked up the orange juice carton from the table, then turned back to continue, "I've thought about everything, and I keep coming back to the fact that I've never had this type of chemistry with anyone. And it's not just physical; it's intellectual and emotional."

"You can't be thinking..." Jane walked towards her, the concern obvious in her eyes.

"No. Not yet. I know my boundaries, and I'm not ready. He hasn't pushed me either. We both know this is all too new, and if we want it to last..." She had a distant look, though almost as if looking inside. She glanced down at the carton of juice still in her hand and went to put it in the fridge. Elizabeth turned back to face Jane. "It's early to think of that too, but I have... Trust me, Jane. I trust him; and should anything go wrong, know I have gone in with my eyes wide open."

A short while after Will got home, he picked up the phone. "Hey, Charlie," he greeted his friend when he answered. "I thought you might want to come over this afternoon... go swimming... and of course, stay for dinner. I'm barbecuing."

"I guess I could... Any reason?"

"Elizabeth and Jane are coming over."

"Jane?" There was a brief pause. "You invited Jane over... So, you're actually seeing Lizzy?"

"Yeah, I guess I am," he said with a grin that could be heard.

"That's good. I told you that you'd like her. So when should I get there?"

"I think they'll be here about three."

"Hmmm... If I come over before the game, can I watch the Phils until they arrive?"

"Sure." Will laughed. "I'll see you then."

Chapter 10

As Elizabeth drove up 202 towards Will's house, Jane asked, "Why am I going with you? He probably only invited me to be polite."

"Perhaps," Elizabeth answered nonchalantly. "Or maybe he wants to get to know you better... Either way, Charlie'll be there, so it'll be like Will and I don't even exist."

"That's not so, Lizzy," Jane retorted, trying not to blush.

"If you say so," muttered Elizabeth.

A few minutes later, they were driving up Will's street, and Jane looked around silently, clearly taking in the surroundings.

Elizabeth pulled in the driveway and parked next to Charlie's Prius had been.

They both collected their canvas bags from the back seat and walked toward the front door. Maggie met them before they reached it. "Lizzy, I'm so happy to see you again!"

Once Elizabeth introduced Maggie and Jane, the elder woman was quick in her address. "So you are the sister that made Will spend the night."

Jane nodded, not entirely sure what Maggie was thinking.

"Thank you!" she continued. "I tend to worry over Will and Georgie as if they were my own; I'd have been terribly upset to learn he'd driven home so far in the middle of the night." The look of motherly affection was clear on her face. "Anyhow, I suppose you're here to see the boys, not me. They're in the back. I'll show you the way."

As they walked into the den, Elizabeth spied Will and Charlie through the glass door, sitting on chaises in the shade near the pool deck, in front of an outdoor TV. Charlie was watching the Phillies game, while Will was reading a sheaf of papers.

Will and Hershey jumped up when they heard the door slide open, and when they spied the guests, Hershey ran to Elizabeth while Will remained in place. "Elizabeth! Jane! You made it!" he greeted them with a huge, boyish grin.

Elizabeth started to answer, but had to bite her cheek as Charlie slowly rose to greet them. Only he could match up green swim trunks, an orange Flyers giveaway shirt and a red Phillies cap. Standing next to the neat, coordinated and also swimsuit-wearing Will didn't help either.

Charlie greeted them both in his typical cheery manner, then wasted no time convincing Jane to sit with him and watch the rest of the game. A moment later he was helping Jane into the chaise Will had just vacated.

"As I predicted." Elizabeth muttered.

Will was at her side and had cast aside his papers. Glancing at the other couple's backs, he replied, "I don't mind," and bent down to kiss her quickly. Taking Elizabeth's hand, he turned back towards the others and asked, "Can I get you something, Jane? There's Yuengling, and I think there's a Chadds Ford Chardonnay in the fridge, iced tea, soda..."

"Chardonnay sounds good, thanks," Jane answered breezily, without looking back.

Refocusing on the woman at his side, Will took Elizabeth's bag and set it on a chair, then grasped her hand and led her back into the house.

When they got to the kitchen, Will kicked the swinging door shut and pulled Elizabeth into his arms in one fluid movement, and their lips met in a heartbeat.

After only a short kiss, Elizabeth pulled away and asked, "You're not worried Maggie might catch us 'making out' in here?"

"Not at all." The boyish grin was back. "When it's just Georgie and me, she's comfortable as a member of the family, but when we have guests, she thinks she must act like an employee, and since I wouldn't let her cook, she'll not make another appearance until dinner."

He recaptured Elizabeth's lips, then a couple minutes later, added, "This is one of those very few times I don't mind her predictability."

Elizabeth smiled up at him. "Even so, Charlie and Jane'll probably be wondering what happened to us."

He kissed her quickly on the forehead and reluctantly let her go. "Probably. What would you like to drink?"

A minute later they returned to the backyard, and Will set down Jane's wine and a fresh bottle of beer for Charlie. When he returned to Elizabeth's side, he asked, "Now, what would you like to do? Swimming? Tennis? Just lazing about?"

"Pool's beautiful. How's the water?" she asked.

"Eighty-four."

"You mind swimming?"

"Not at all." Especially not the seeing you in a swimsuit part... Dammit Darcy!" He hoped his expression had not given away his momentary lapse of mental decorum.

Elizabeth took a sip of her beer and set it on the table before she pulled a beach towel from her bag.

"You need..." he was about to direct her to the pool house.

"No, I..." she interrupted. "Uh... Here." A hint of color appeared in her cheeks as she handed him her towel. "Could you please lay that out on one of the chaises in the sun?"

As soon as he walked away from her, she slipped off her green knit top and white walking shorts. She bit her lip. What are you afraid of? Lots of guys have seen you in a swimsuit. She swallowed quickly, then picked up her beer. Holding her head up, and wearing a smile, she walked towards the pair of chaises where Will had laid out her towel. "It's a lovely day for so early in June."

Will could scarcely take his eyes off her in her one piece, blue patterned bathing suit. She was gorgeous and desirable, but so much more than just a great body. "Yeah, warm enough to swim, but not too hot. I've been out here almost every day since I had it opened."

Elizabeth sipped her beer again and set it down on the low table between the chairs, then walked over to the edge of the pool. She dipped her toes in. "Very nice." She then turned and dove, slipping smoothly into the water.

Will never took his eyes off of her. Very nice, indeed.

Elizabeth swam a full lap, then returned to the side where Will was still standing, watching her. "Are you going to join me?" she baited, playfully.

There was no need for her to ask twice.

She tried not to watch as Will quickly unbuttoned and removed his shirt before he dove into the pool to join her. The man was definitely easy on the eyes!

They swam several laps and raced a few times before they regressed to seeing who could hold their breath longer and playing shark. Deciding to take a break, they were sitting on the steps when Will looked over at the pair watching the baseball game.

Jane and Charlie hadn't moved. They appeared to be talking to each other some, but mostly they just paid attention to the television.

"Is your sister a big baseball fan?" Will asked.

"Not really. She used to watch a lot with an ex-boyfriend, and she's more willing than I am to sit with our dad and watch a game. I think she's content just being with Charlie." Elizabeth shrugged.

"What's the deal with them? They seem so happy together, why aren't they dating?"

"I've suggested she ask him out, but she won't do more than invite him over to the house, and only if I'm around. Of course, I'm not sure I'd do any better, and I'm a lot more outgoing than she is. She's very good at her job, confident, able to go out, shake hands and sell a product; but she keeps her emotions to herself. She just won't come right out and tell him, or anyone, how she feels." Elizabeth shook her head. "I just don't know."

Will looked like he was thinking for a moment. "Charlie said something the other night... He thinks she won't give him a chance."

"Well, I know better than to get involved. I only hope they figure it out soon." She sighed.

With a glance at the others and a mischievous smirk, Will pulled Elizabeth into his arms. "I'm just glad I followed my impulse the other night. This is much better than whatever they're doing." He kissed her cheek lightly.

Elizabeth giggled, as in addition to his embrace and remark, Will had found a ticklish spot. "I can't complain," she teased, but then her grin began to slip. "Although..."

He could feel the change in her body as she fought the sudden surge of tension. "What is it, Liz?"

She pulled away from Will a little and looked into his eyes. She then slipped into his lap and lay her head on his shoulder. "I like where we're going, Will. Once we got past some initial misjudgments and awkwardness, everything has been so easy.

"It's just... it all seems so sudden. I don't behave rashly. I think about and evaluate everything. Yet somehow I know it's all right, and I've sat and dwelt on every aspect of... us, but Jane's worried about me.

"I don't blame her either. I'd be worried about her if it looked like she was getting so involved with someone this quickly." She lifted her head again and looked at Will, who, for lack of a better description, looked confused. "Don't get me wrong..." She looked down at the water. "I probably shouldn't have said anything."

"No." Will ran a hand down her arm. "I'm glad you did. If it helps, I'm not normally so impulsive. I can't say I've given much consideration to how quickly we got here, but I know you affected me from the first time I set eyes on you. I've also thought about how comfortable I am with you, and how much I like our being together."

Will looked searchingly in her eyes. When he spoke again, it was nearly a whisper. "I don't want to go backwards."

Elizabeth smiled warmly. "I don't think we could." She sat up straighter and leaned in, placing a soft kiss on his lips before she stood up and reached for his hands. "We should get out," she said absently, and when he stood up, she led him up the stairs and over to the chaises. Once there, she turned and looked up at Will. "I think I just needed a reminder of the sensible people we are."

They toweled off and sat in the sun for a few minutes, until Will took a sip of his beer. "Warm." He made a face, though Elizabeth had already missed it when she opened her eyes. "I'll be right back, do you want another?"

He offered new drinks to Charlie and Jane, then went inside. This seemed to remind Jane that there were others present. "How was the pool, Lizzy?"

"It was great." Elizabeth didn't move or open her eyes; she just enjoyed the sun's warmth.

"Maybe I'll check it out." Jane stood and stretched a little before removing her shirt and shorts. She didn't pay any attention to the fact that Charlie was no longer engrossed by the television, but simply extracted her towel and walked towards the pool, tossing it on a nearby chair.

As Will walked out, he noticed Charlie, staring like an awestruck child in a toy store. He followed his friend's gaze, just as a bikini-clad Jane prepared to dive into the pool. He could not help the passing thought that she was a beautiful woman -- she could probably be a model if she wanted -- before he waved a bottle of Yuengling in front of Charlie's face and returned to the petite brunette he found far more enticing.

Will and Elizabeth lay back and talked while Charlie sat on the pool deck, dangling his feet in the water and watching, and occasionally speaking with Jane. It was relatively quiet until Harry Kalas' voice rang from the television. Shane Victorino had apparently hit the go ahead run; it was enough to drag Charlie back to the game.

Looking at his watch, Will decided he should get cooking. When he got up, so did Elizabeth. "Is there anything I can do?" she asked.

"Everything's ready to go. I just need to find out if you and Jane prefer chicken or steak. I won't complain if you want to keep me company though." His teasing grin was adorable; there was no way she could decline.

When the food was just about ready, Elizabeth helped Will bring the plates from the kitchen. She had no more than placed them on the table, when Maggie appeared.

Will watched the ladies, expecting a power struggle between them, and was surprised when Maggie sat down, allowing Elizabeth to finish setting the table. He'd have laughed if he didn't think he'd get in trouble with one or the other.

Once the food was ready, everyone settled in, including Hershey, who planted himself between Will and Maggie. Conversation flowed easily, which surprised Elizabeth a bit at first, considering how quiet Jane and Will had been at breakfast. Apparently the addition of Charlie and Maggie put them more at ease.

Elizabeth and Jane helped Maggie clear the table, then dragged her back, where everyone sat talking. Finally about 8, the party broke up. Maggie went to do the dishes, even though Elizabeth offered to help. Jane and Charles went out front by the cars, giving Will and Elizabeth a little privacy for their goodbyes.

Knowing people were waiting, they kept their farewells brief, then Will walked her out front. As he helped her into her car, he squeezed her hand. "I'll see you in the morning."

Chapter 11

Posted on October 27. 2008

The next week, patterns began to develop for Will and Elizabeth. They made the Flyer every morning, and sat together in their usual spot behind Jane and Charlie, reading the paper, talking and holding hands.

Their schedules allowed them to spend lunch together twice. Once they picked up sandwiches at Tony Luke Jr.'s and ate them at Rittenhouse Square. The next day, they went to [url=http://www.devonseafood.com/">Devon. For some reason, sitting in the restaurant, Elizabeth was struck by the contrast of Will, across from her in his likely thousand dollar suit, while she wore a pair of Levi's and a blouse from Target. No one else seemed to notice, not even Will, so she told herself to put it out of her mind.

On Wednesday, when Elizabeth had to stay at work late, coincidentally, so did Will. He asked her to call him when she was done, and when she did, he insisted upon meeting her at her building.

As he approached the doors of the glass-faced lobby, he could see her familiar figure standing at the security desk. He was a little disappointed that she appeared to be speaking with the guard and not watching for him.

At the sound of the revolving door, the guard looked up and Elizabeth turned. As soon as her eyes met Will's, a huge smile spread across her face. "Hi, Will." The way her face lit up and the warmth of her greeting completely melted his heart.

Elizabeth quickly glanced at her watch. "Just a sec, and we can go." She grasped his hand when he was close enough, then turned back to the guard. "If you give me your e-mail address, I'll send you the info tomorrow."

The guard wrote something on a slip of paper and handed it to her. "Thanks, Marco. I'll see you tomorrow."

She slipped the scrap into her backpack, then smiled up at Will again. "Let's get out of here. It's been a long day."

"Sounds good." Will smiled back. He had almost thought to be jealous of the young man at the desk, but Elizabeth's smiles were different for each of them. Glancing back, the man wasn't even watching them leave. I could watch her all day. Fool! Though he's probably better off that way.

They went through the door separately, but rejoined their hands immediately once outside, and began to walk towards Suburban Station. The late spring sky was still bright, but the type of bustle on the streets was a clear indication of the time. Most of the few people they saw were heading towards the train station or parking garages. The remainder, the sidewalk vendors, were packing their wares into vans.

As they approached Market Street, Will glanced at his watch, then stopped by a half-emptied stand. Pulling out his wallet, he began to speak to the older woman in Korean, and handing her a bill, he grabbed a bunch of flowers from a five-gallon bucket. He smiled at the woman before turning to hand the flowers to Elizabeth. "C'est pour vous, ma chérie."

With a blush and a small grin, she accepted them. "Merci beaucoup," she answered as she lifted them to her face to smell them.

"De rien." He then recaptured her hand and they resumed their walk.

They did not have to wait long for the train, and despite the abundance of empty seats, they chose to sit in a seat for two when they boarded the older Silverliner car.

As the train began to move, Will asked Elizabeth to go out to dinner with him. While she wanted to go, she asked about Maggie, concerned she had a dinner getting cold. When Will offered to let her call Maggie for her reassurance and permission, Elizabeth had to laugh and accept his invitation.

They were busy talking, and didn't pay attention to the passengers that boarded at 30th Street, so when Elizabeth looked up as the train began moving, she started.

"What's wrong?" asked Will as he looked up, spying the man seated in the last row of seats, apparently so he could see the whole car, and more specifically, Elizabeth.

Looking down to make sure her neckline wasn't indecent, which, of course, was completely unnecessary, Elizabeth said, "That's ‘Bible Billy.' He's harmless, but he has a way of creeping you out."

"Bible Billy?" Will looked at the man again. He wore a cheap suit that must have been ten years old, and sure enough, when he wasn't looking at Elizabeth, he seemed to be reading an old, worn bible.

"That's what most of us call him. He always carries that bible, but leers at all the women. When we get a bit further out, he'll probably pull out his big, old cell phone, which I'm amazed even still has service. Then he'll call ‘Lady Cat' and tell her how wonderful her ideas are. I'm not even sure what he does, other than make my skin crawl.

"At least he gets off at Bryn Mawr, which is about halfway to Paoli timewise." She sighed. "Let's not worry about him. Where do you want to eat?"

About an hour later, they found themselves at The Green Papaya, a Vietnamese restaurant on the way out to Elizabeth's house. They immediately ordered snow rolls as they perused the rest of the menu.

After such a long day, it was nice to unwind, and they found themselves laughing about several things that would not have been half so humorous any other time. Elizabeth even ventured to tell Will about the time Bible Billy had sat next to her on the train.

Dinner passed at a leisurely pace, neither being in a hurry to be elsewhere, and both enjoying the relaxed company. Finally they left and headed out to Elizabeth's, remaining in the car for a while, until they decided it was best they call it a night. He, of course, walked her to the door and kissed her again before departing.

Will invited Elizabeth to spend Friday evening at his house, knowing that all the typical ‘dating spots' would be busy. They discussed their options and finally decided to let Maggie cook dinner. She would then likely hide out in her room, and they would essentially have the house to themselves.

When Will pulled into his garage with Elizabeth, Friday night, he was surprised to notice Maggie's car was gone. They walked into the house to be greeted by Hershey, then went to the kitchen, where he found a note on the counter:

Will-

PS: I do have my phone, but don't call me.

Eager to assess the situation when they arrived, Will had not even noticed the table when he walked through the dining room. It was set for two, with flowers and candles, and what Elizabeth presumed to be the good china and silver. "This is beautiful," she commented. "I can't believe she went to this trouble... Well, actually I can. She's just too good, Will."

They worked together to serve the food, and to clear the table and put away the leftovers after, seeming very comfortable together in the kitchen. Elizabeth tried, but Will steered her from the room when she started towards the dishes. "Maggie's orders."

As it was only a bit past 7, the sun still shone brightly, even though it was already starting to slip behind the trees. Elizabeth had brought her suit, so they decided to take a dip. With the warm weather, the pool was a couple degrees warmer than it had been the previous Sunday, and was very comfortable given the warmth of the day. When they tired swimming, Will led Elizabeth to the hot tub, where they sat and snuggled, watching the sky's colors as the sun set.

While nestled comfortably, Will would occasionally kiss Elizabeth's hair, or her forehead, even her ear, but soon that was not enough. He began kissing along her cheek, until she turned enough for their lips to meet. Their kiss was sweet, yet hungry. Hands began to wander... shoulders, arms, waists; neither ventured too far, but new territory was touched, felt and explored.

Eventually, Elizabeth pulled away, placing light kisses on his cheek, then shoulder. "We should go inside," she said calmly, clearly putting an end to their amorous activities. Still, her warm smile and the hand she rested on his shoulder assured Will that everything was all right.

Once they were dried-off and dressed again, Will put an Ike CD on in the den, and asked if she played pool. He was a bit surprised to learn that she could hold her own against him rather well. Neither really cared about winning, as aside from the conversation and competition, each enjoyed watching the other play.

After a few games, they moved over to the sofa, where Will sat, and Elizabeth settled in his lap. She had come to find this way of sitting most comfortable. They cuddled and talked for a while, but eventually they found themselves more agreeably engaged. They remained thus until they heard Maggie return.

Maggie did not venture to the back of the house, but Will and Elizabeth went to find her a short time later. Elizabeth complimented her on the lovely table and delicious dinner. The two continued to talk while Will stood by for a few minutes, until Maggie insisted she had dishes to wash, and did not want to be in the way.

As it was late, it seemed like a good time for Will to take Elizabeth home, so she grabbed her swimsuit, towel and backpack, and they were on their way.

When they got to Elizabeth's house, it took another twenty minutes to say goodbye, but eventually Will left. They had known each other less than two weeks, and she missed him already.

Elizabeth found Jane in her room, chatting on her computer, but she seemed agreeable to being interrupted. The sisters sat on Jane's bed for a while and talked, something they had not done as much as usual the past few days. Elizabeth told her sister that they'd had a nice evening, and how wonderful it had been just to hang out with Will. Jane then brought up her plans for them to work in the garden over the weekend, a topic that soon found Elizabeth longing for her bed.

Nerd that she was, Elizabeth was unable to turn in without checking her e-mail, so she got into bed with her laptop. There was nothing important, thank goodness, and she was just about to shut it down, when a new message popped up.

From: fjd3@comcast.net
To: lizzy1011@comcast.net
Subject: Good night

I must have missed you online. Just wanted to say good night one more time.

Love,
Will

Chapter 12

Posted on November 3, 2008

Elizabeth woke when she felt a heavy weight press down on her bed. "Morning, Lug," she mumbled as she reached over to pet the head of the dog whose front end now took up half her mattress. She didn't need long to wake up, and was soon in the kitchen letting out Hamlet.

Sitting at the table with her coffee and the paper, she was surprised when Jane joined her before she had even finished the front section. "You're up early," Elizabeth remarked.

"I wanted us to get to Waterloo Gardens before they're really busy," Jane answered, walking to the counter to pour some coffee.

"Us?" It was nearly a childlike whine.

"Yes, us! You have as much invested in this house as I do, and we should have gotten this done a couple of weeks ago. We can't wait any longer, or we won't have any flowers this summer." Jane wandered around the kitchen collecting the cereal and such for her breakfast.

She knew it wouldn't help, but Elizabeth had to retaliate. "Sure we will! My roses are blooming already."

"Oh! You are so much like Dad!" Jane exclaimed. "Only I'm not home all day like Mom to do all the other yard work." She took a calming breath before she continued. "You know I love working in the garden. There just isn't time."

Suddenly Jane turned and glared at her sister. "Why must you do this to me every year, Elizabeth!" She tried to effect a look of anger.

Elizabeth laughed. "Because it's so easy. I'll help, but I won't be happy about it."

Later that morning, Jane and Elizabeth were on their knees, working on the flower beds in front of the house. "Why do you always choose the ones you have to plant every year? Can't we have low maintenance flowers?" Elizabeth asked.

"Because low, full flowers like these impatiens look nice along here."

Just then, Elizabeth's phone began playing Hall and Oates "Kiss on My List". She quickly grabbed it and pressed the answer button before sitting down on the ground with her back to Jane. She was smiling broadly when she finally answered, "Hi."

"Hi Liz. What are you up to this morning?" Will asked.

"My evil sister is making me plant annuals." She glanced back at Jane and stuck out her tongue.

"Do you need me to jump on my white steed and rescue you?" he teased in return.

"No," she sighed. "I still have to live here."

You don't *have* to... It took a moment for Will to answer her. "Okay. Well, if you change your mind... Think she'll grant time off for good behavior tonight?"

"If not, I'll make a break for it. What time?"

"Five?"

"Sounds good. Any plans?"

"Not yet. Do you have any ideas?"

"No. I guess we can play it by ear. Besides, I should get back to work here." She added an exaggerated sigh.

"All right. I'll see you tonight."

"Bye." Elizabeth replied quietly and pressed the end call button. She put the phone back in its holster and went back to work with the flowers, pointedly ignoring any looks she might have been getting from her sister.

Elizabeth decided against harassing Jane any further, and they spent the next hour working amicably. However, when Elizabeth decided it was time for lunch, she quickly offered to make sandwiches and disappeared into the house.

She was just placing a pitcher of iced tea on the tray when she heard Jane's voice in the hall. A moment later, Jane and Charlie entered the kitchen.

"Hey Lizzy," Charlie greeted her.

"Hi Charlie. This is surprise. Jane didn't tell me you were coming over today." She glared quickly at Jane.

"She didn't know. Last night Janey was telling me about all you guys had to do today. I thought I'd drop by and offer to help out."

"That's so thoughtful of you, Charlie." Elizabeth glanced over at Jane, who smiled at the man with a look of complete adoration. "Have you had lunch yet?"

"Yeah, I'm good; though I'd gladly drink a glass of tea with you." He then turned to Jane. "Unless, of course, Jane wants me to get started on something."

They all went out and sat in the backyard while they ate, and when they were done, Elizabeth was quick to offer to wash the dishes.

Jane and Charlie didn't complain and went out front to work on trimming back the Forsythia. They had just started when Charlie's phone rang.

"Hi Will," he answered, as he laid the pole pruner on the ground.

"I was just wondering what you were up to... maybe see if you were interested in a game of racquetball."

"Sorry, I'm over at Jane's, helping her and Lizzy with the yard."

"You're at Elizabeth's?"

"Yeah. Jane was telling me what she had planned today, and it seemed like a lot for the two of them." Charlie looked up at Jane with a questioning look. She seemed to understand and nodded. "Why don't you come over and lend a hand too. Then we'll get done earlier, and poor Lizzy won't have to work so hard," he was faking a sympathetic tone by the end.

"I'll take that under advisement. Talk to you later."

Charlie pressed the end call button and turned back to Jane. "My bet is he'll be here in forty minutes." He then went back to working on the large bush.

Elizabeth was bent over the petunia bed by the driveway, on her hands and knees, laying mulch, when Will drove up behind her, almost like clockwork, forty minutes after he had spoken with Charlie. While it lasted, he admired the image presented, though he could not complain when she looked up and smiled at him. She got up and went to meet him as he exited the car. "I wasn't expecting you for a few more hours." Standing on tiptoes, she kissed him lightly.

"Well, when I found out Charlie was here, I didn't think it was fair for Jane to have help when you don't. Therefore, I am here to do your bidding, madam."

After a bit of laughter, Elizabeth put Will to work. He and Charlie quickly took over the big projects like cutting back trees and repairing the fence.

Finally sometime between 3:30 and 4:00, they all sat down on the back patio with cold lemonade. No one talked much, but all were pleased with what had been accomplished.

Jane was the first to slip upstairs to shower and change, and when she returned, Elizabeth followed suit. She came back a few minutes later, her wet hair hanging down to her waist. When Will tried to grab her and pull her to sit beside him, she escaped his grasp. Look at yourself, Will; you're a mess."

"Well in that case, I did bring a change of clothes. Might I be able to clean up?" he asked.

"Certainly." Elizabeth grazed his arm slightly as she sat down. "You know where the shower is."

"I do. Thanks, hon." He rose and lightly kissed the top of her forehead before disappearing into the house.

"He knows where the shower is?" Charlie inquired.

Elizabeth blushed. "Yeah, Jane made him sleep over, in the guest room, when he was here late last weekend.

Charlie showered last, and when he returned, Elizabeth looked like she was close to falling asleep curled up with Will. Jane didn't look much livelier until she noticed his return. Looking at Will and Elizabeth, he said, "Unless you two already have plans, why don't we just order pizza and hang out here?" He caught himself and quickly appealed to Jane. "That is, if you don't mind, Janey?"

She smiled up at Charlie. "Sounds good. Lizzy?"

Elizabeth looked at her sister, who gazed anxiously at her. She thought she could almost hear Jane thinking Say yes. Say yes. Looking up at Will, she said, "It's up to you. I could sit here all night." Her content smile sold him on the idea.

Jane ordered, and when the pizza arrived, Elizabeth produced some Victory Lagers, and they remained on the patio to eat. The group found themselves very comfortable together and conversation flowed easily.

Eventually, however, Charlie thought to do something different and suggested poker. "Do you guys play?" He looked from Jane to Elizabeth and back.

"I played a bit at school," Elizabeth replied.

"Not really," answered Jane.

"I could show you how to play." He tried to encourage Jane. "I'll even help you if you need it."

After a few minutes, Jane caved, and Charlie led her out to his car to get his poker set and to help her set up. Elizabeth watched them curiously as they left.

"I guess you didn't know he was addicted to the game?" Will asked.

"Not at all," she answered.

"He watches it on TV and tries to get a game going whenever he gets enough people together. I'm almost surprised he didn't try last weekend. As far as I know, he doesn't play for money though, so I don't worry about him." He then drew Elizabeth's attention back to himself and dropped his voice. "Besides, I'd rather worry about much more important things." He leaned over to kiss Elizabeth, and his lips were eagerly met.

Pulling back, Elizabeth said. "I haven't shown you my roses yet, have I?"

He was a bit surprised by the change, but conceded she had not.

She stood up and held out her hand, which he accepted, then led him towards the back of the yard. Hamlet raised his head as they walked away, but then flopped it down again, tired from the day's unusual level of activity.

The back section of the fence was lined with rose bushes. They stopped by almost every one as she named the variety, giving extra emphasis to her Double Delight and [url=http://www.rose-roses.com/rosepages/floribundas/Intrigue.html">Intrigue, and then smelled the flowers, encouraging him to do likewise.

Once she had identified all of them, Elizabeth leaned against the trunk of a large, old tree. Will looked at her questioningly, and she raised her hand, curling her index finger, inviting him to come closer.

He smiled broadly and accommodated her quickly.

Out of view from the house, their lips met hungrily and repeatedly. Their hands joined in as well, but limited themselves to known territory. They only had a few minutes before they had to rejoin Jane and Charlie.

Gradually, their appetites sated, they slowed and relaxed. While Elizabeth rested her head on Will's chest, he swept her hair back from her face and placed a kiss on her temple. "I love your rose garden, Liz."

Back in the house, they joined Jane and Charlie. It proved to be an interesting game, as when Jane was playing a hand, Charlie was more interested in hers than his. The play moved slowly, and most hands finished with only Will and Elizabeth. Neither seemed willing to lose, and the bulk of the chips went back and forth between them.

When Jane started yawning at regular intervals, Will suggested a draw, and Elizabeth agreed, recommending they go sit outside. He readily agreed, and they both said their goodnights, leaving Jane and Charlie to their own devices.

Followed by Hamlet, the couple walked out the back door. Elizabeth looked up at the sky, then turned to pull a blanket out of the cabinet. "Do you ever lay out in your yard and look at the stars?" she asked as she led him back towards her rose garden.

"Not for a very long time," he replied.

She laid out the blanket, then sat upon it, leaning back and looking towards the sky. As Will joined her, she remarked, "This is one of the things I love about living out here. The lights are just too bright in the city."

They gazed at the stars -- and the occasional airplane that flew through -- talking a bit. Hamlet lay down nearby and was soon snoring.

Elizabeth was not able to giggle at the dog for long, as Will took charge of the situation. "Well, it sounds like we lost our chaperone." He quickly pulled Elizabeth into his arms and they began kissing. Once all the familiar paths had been traced, Will's had slipped farther down.

Elizabeth was well aware of every sensation as his hand moved, settling on her bottom, and admitted to herself that she enjoyed it. She thought to emulate the action, but it took her a while to build up her courage, yet slowly, she did find her fingers sliding down his spine, over his hip. She could definitely get used to this.

They were startled suddenly by a loud, deep, nearby bark, and stopped to look in each others eyes for a moment to get their bearings.

"What is it, Hamlet?" Elizabeth asked, sitting up and looking around. The dog sat erect, sniffing the air. Will and Elizabeth could detect nothing.

They all sat silently for a couple of minutes before Hamlet walked over and nudged Elizabeth. She scratched his ears, still unsure of what was going on.

Looking at his watch, Will was surprised to see it was nearly midnight. "I should probably go," he said, and started to get up. He held out his hand to help up Elizabeth, then assisted her in folding the blanket. He then wrapped his arm around her and escorted her back to the house.

He stayed only long enough for a glass of water and to retrieve his work clothes, after which Elizabeth escorted him to the front door, where they kissed good night.

"I love you, Will," she said, after she closed the door behind him.

Continued In Next Section