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Chapter 16
"What is it?" William prompted, loving concern brimming in his eyes.
"I...," Lisa stopped. She couldn't go on. Something within her prevented her from confessing, telling William the truth. The ugly truth, she instinctively felt, would destroy their relationship. William would never be able to understand her reasons for doing what she did. Indeed, even she sometimes failed to understand the reasons behind the choices she'd made. How could she even begin to explain her state of mind after the fire, the funeral and then, Andy's desertion? She had been shattered, hell bent on revenge, and near mental breakdown. She had been destitute and desperate for money to pay Jane's medical bills. At that point, Wickie had seemed an angel, with all his obvious faults. How could William understand all of that without having been through a similar experience? No, he'd never understand. Never. He'd just see her as a common criminal, another lowlife from the Mafia. And whatever happened between them, Lisa did not want him to picture her thus.
"Lisa?" William broke into her chain of thoughts. "What were you going to say?"
"I...just wanted to say that I'm very...grateful...for everything...," Lisa said tentatively, hoping William wouldn't press her any further.
"The last thing I want is for you to feel indebted to me," sighed William, looking into Lisa's eyes. "You mean a lot to me, you know that?"
Lisa could hardly breathe. She felt her pulse quicken as responded. "Oh."
"I have struggled in vain," William said, his dark eyes trained on her for any visible response. "This will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. I have to tell you that...I love you."
"What?" Lisa couldn't believe her ears.
"I love you," repeated William. "I've loved you since the moment I saw you on that runway and called you into my office. Did you honestly think I fly all my new employees to Switzerland?" He paused to smile. "I didn't want for this to come out so quickly...but I couldn't help myself. I saw you fall that day and it nearly killed me. For a moment, I had thought that it was serious and then, the vision of a life without you came before my eyes. And then, I realized just how much I loved you."
"Wow," Lisa murmured, still not daring to trust her ears.
"I've overwhelmed you," William said. "Maybe I should have saved this for later...But I couldn't bear to be in the same room with you without letting you know how I felt. There's no pressure on you. I just want to know how you feel about me. You can answer me honestly. I can live with your answer, whatever it is...So?"
It was the moment of truth as far as Lisa was concerned. She would have to decide her own destiny. Did she love him? Of course. Would she tell him? Maybe. If she did tell him, there would be no turning back. She would have to repudiate her old way of life forever. It wouldn't be easy, Lisa realized, but at least that way she would have the satisfaction of knowing that she had had William's love. She looked into his eyes filled with emotion...for her. He loved her! Lisa marveled at her calm after that declaration. Perhaps she had always known it at some level. Perhaps the secrets of his heart had already been shared with hers. Lisa realized that William was still waiting for her answer and feeling slightly self-conscious, she said,
"I love you, too." That was it. As simple as that.
William smiled. "Really?"
"Really," replied Lisa, smiling in return. Even with all the darkness weighing on her heart, she couldn't stop herself from smiling.
William wasted no time in kissing her again, but this time, his kiss was not of a shy, gentlemanly kind. Rather, his kiss reflected his own passion and desire as it did hers. He pulled Lisa closer as she ran her fingers through his hair. The kiss deepened and increased in fervor, causing havoc on both their senses. They were completely lost in each other, time and place losing its significance around them. The gently falling snow would have melted had it come in contact with the heat between them. At length, William pulled back a little. Lisa's eyes that had been closed, flew open and looked at him inquiringly.
"Who are you?" he said.
Lisa almost died from shock. He knew?? "What do you mean?"
He smiled, "You're my angel, but who were you before I met you? I know nothing about your life, except that you've made mine infinitely better. What are your passions, your desires, your needs? I want to know everything."
"There's enough time for that later," said Lisa, trying to steer the conversation away from her life.
Seeing the small mischievous twinkle in her eyes, William smiled, "Oh? So what do you have in mind for now?"
"Oh, this and that," murmured Lisa, coming closer and kissing William's forehead, his nose, and his ears before finding his lips again.
Moments later, William stopped again and said, "Lisa, I won't be able to stop."
"Then don't," said Lisa.
"Are you sure?" asked William.
Lisa nodded, "I have waited my whole life for someone to love me, William, and tonight, I want you to love me."
Lisa didn't need to say more; indeed, she was silenced by William's kiss, following which were many other unmentionable things that quelled any doubts about their mutual love.
~~
The next morning
William woke up with that serene, pleasurable feeling that comes with the knowledge of being in love. He felt the sweet burden next to him and saw Lisa still sleeping on his arms, snuggling close to him. He watched the rhythm of her breathing and the small smile playing on her lips. William recalled the events of the previous night and could scarcely believe his own good fortune. She loved him! William could hardly believe it even after what had followed after the confession. It was difficult for him to imagine what she could possibly see in him, but he didn't question it as long as he had her love. William felt content, happy, irrevocably satisfied. There was nothing more he could wish for in the world. As long as he had Lisa, he could never feel alone again.
Lisa stirred a little in his arms and moments later, her eyes fluttered open.
"Good morning," William smiled as he greeted her.
"Good morning," smiled Lisa in return. She could hardly resist his mesmerizing eyes that cast such a spell on her. "I'm not sorry about last night."
"Neither am I," replied William.
Lisa held his gaze for another moment, then closed her eyes, snuggling closer to William. He tightened his arms around her as she said, "I never want to lose this feeling I have right now."
"What feeling?" asked William.
"It's hard to describe," said Lisa. "I feel so...happy...just, plain happy. I've never experienced anything like this before."
"I know what you mean," said William softly.
Lisa sighed, not saying anything for a moment. She wanted to savor every feeling, every emotion without having to think about anything. "So what happens now?" she finally said, breaking from the embrace and propping herself with her elbow.
William looked at her. "Whatever you want."
"William!" remonstrated Lisa. "I'm serious."
"I'm serious too," said William. "We can take this as slowly as you want."
"Really?"
"Yes," nodded William. "Lisa, I love you so much. You have no idea how much. I'll do anything you want me to. Anything. And if that means waiting a lifetime, I will. You must realize what you mean to me." A few tears escaped Lisa's eyes. "Why are you crying?"
"I...it's just overwhelming," said Lisa as she buried her head in his chest. She held back her sobs, not wanting to concern William. She hated lying to him, not telling him the truth, after all that they had shared. But William could never know, never find out. When they returned to New York, Lisa would have to find a way to extricate herself from the tangled mess she had herself created.
Trying to lighten the mood, Lisa said, "I bet you said the same thing to Anne?"
William's face darkened, "No. Never. I never loved Anne, not for one moment. If you hadn't come into the picture, I would have married her, but it would have been a marriage of convenience at best. And I've never said anything like this to anyone before because I've never been in love before." Seeing Lisa's disbelieving look, he said, "What about you? Have you been in love before?"
Lisa instantly thought of Andy Dickinson and then said, "Maybe...at least, I thought I was in love, but in retrospect we were never really in love."
"Who was it?" William asked, feeling the unfamiliar twinge of jealousy.
"I don't even remember his name," lied Lisa. "Anyway, it's not important. None of it is important," Then, abruptly changing to subject, she said, "Can we get some breakfast, I'm starved."
"Yes, of course, milady," laughed William. "I'll get right on it. Don't you want to shower first?"
"Yes," agreed Lisa.
"Go on, then, I'll join you soon." With that promise and a brief kiss, William left the bed and Lisa lay motionless for several seconds before proceeding to the bathroom.
~~
Later that day
"I just love this," murmured Lisa, contently, lying in William's arms on the couch before the fire. "I never want to leave."
"We don't have to, then," said William.
"Oh, come on!" laughed Lisa. "You know that's not possible."
"Sure it is," said William. "I could have my office moved down here and we could live in this little lodge forever."
"You would do that for me?" Lisa looked up at his eyes.
"Yes."
Perhaps Lisa should have ceased to be surprised by the depth of William's regard for her, but she continued to be surprised by it. He was so warm and open, but at the same time, earnest and passionate, that not a second passed without Lisa feeling like the luckiest woman alive. They had spent the morning in each other's company, content to just be in each other's arms, sharing their feelings and emotions. Lisa closed her mind to the challenges that awaited her when she returned to New York. She could not even begin to imagine how Wickie would react or how, indeed, she would prevent William from finding out. But Lisa refused to let the problems of the future cloud the pleasures of the present.
"You know, the storm seems to be dying down," remarked Lisa. "Maybe the phone lines are up now?"
"Maybe," muttered William, not attempting to move. "Didn't you just say that you didn't want to leave?"
"Yes," answered Lisa. "But I'm sure that there are many people worried about us right now. It wouldn't be fair to them if we didn't try to contact them when we had the means to."
"Lisa, you continue to amaze me," smiled William, softly kissing her nose. "You're right, of course. I'll go check the phone."
William got up and went to the phone. "The phone lines are up," he announced. "Now what?" He held the receiver, waiting for Lisa's answer.
One word from me, and he'll hang up. I can postpone the inevitable, thought Lisa. We could stay here for another week...but, Wickie knows that I'm in Switzerland and he might get impatient... That thought superceded all others and Lisa said, "Let's call for help, then."
There was a flicker of disappointment in William's eyes. "All right," he said.
Lisa sighed, fighting with the sinking feeling that she had just waved away all happiness.
The next day; Zurich International Airport
"I'm going to miss that lodge," remarked Lisa as they boarded William's private jet.
"Me too," said William. "Especially since I have so many unforgettable memories attached to it."
Lisa blushed at that comment, her mind instantly flying back to that one, special night. William continued, "We should go back there someday."
"Yes," nodded Lisa. Someday...maybe...if we can weather the storm that is sure to come our way. Since Lisa had decided on her course of action, she was filled with innumerable doubts and fears as to the success of her plan. But no matter what happened, she would have the satisfaction of knowing that William had loved her, and the memories of Switzerland to keep the tears away.
"Lisa?"
"Huh?" Lisa snapped back to reality.
"When are you going to tell me?" said William.
"Tell you what?" asked Lisa uncomfortably.
"What's bothering you," replied William. "Don't even try to deny it. I can see it in your eyes. Something is worrying you. Why don't you just tell me?"
"It's nothing, William, really," said Lisa unconvincingly.
William looked at her, his gaze piercing and persuasive. "No, it's not 'nothing' or you wouldn't be so concerned."
"I'm just a little nervous about how people in New York will react to...us," said Lisa. That's the truth.
"Oh, Lisa, you don't have to worry about that," said William. "Everyone will respect you. I can't imagine anyone not liking you. And if there is any problem, we'll face it together, I promise you."
"Oh, William," Lisa hugged him.
"Now can I see that wonderful smile of yours?"
Lisa smiled obligingly, even as William's words reverberated in her head. We'll face it together. She could only hope that he meant it for with the challenges that faced her, she would need all the support she could get.
New York City
Lisa entered her apartment and sighed. The long flight home had been tiring and William had insisted that he escort her to her apartment. But Lisa had refused. She couldn't allow him to see where she lived. It was too degrading. Lisa frowned as she beheld her humble abode. It was and would be forever, a symbol of her life of crime. And if Lisa sought to break that connection with her past forever, she would have to move with infinite carefulness. Of course, she could not do it alone and when Lisa pondered it, only one name came to her mind.
"Hello? Bernardo?" Lisa anxiously asked.
"Lisa?!" exclaimed the voice on the other line. "Where are you?"
"I'm back at my apartment, Nardo," said Lisa. "Listen, can you come over?"
"Now?!" said Bernardo. "It's midnight. Can it wait till tomorrow?"
"No, Nardo, it can't. Please."
"Oh, okay, have I ever been able to say 'no' to you."
"Thank you so much Nardo. Ciao."
Lisa hung up and waited for Bernardo to show up. She wondered if she was doing the right thing in dragging Bernardo into the mess, but she saw no other way out. Only Bernardo had enough influence and contacts to help her in this dire time of need. If Wickie ever found out...Lisa shuddered even as she contemplated her prospects in that situation. No, she definitely needed Bernardo's help. She was certainly taking a risk in telling him of her plans, but she had to trust someone. The sound of the bell informed Lisa of Bernardo's arrival and she rose to welcome him.
"Bellezza," said Bernardo. "How are you? What's the matter? You sounded so anxious on the phone."
"I'm fine, Nardo," Lisa assured. "I just need to talk to you."
"I'm here, Lisa. What is it?"
"I'm leaving the Mafia."
Bernardo laughed softly. "That's funny, tell me another." He paused. "You are joking, aren't you? Lisa?"
Lisa shook her head. "No, I'm dead serious, Nardo."
"Oh my god," Bernardo sank into a chair and held his head. "Oh my god." He was silent for a moment. "But why?"
"I can't do this anymore, Nardo," said Lisa. "This is not the life I want for myself. Look at me. I'm wasting my life here. I want a normal life, with a normal job, with a husband and maybe even kids."
"Does this have anything to do with Darcy?" asked Bernardo, looking at Lisa.
"No," Lisa shook her head. "Well...maybe..."
"Look, Lisa," said Bernardo. "You can't just decide one day that you don't like it anymore and leave. It doesn't work that way. This is the Mafia. You can't just get up and leave."
"But I have to," said Lisa. "I must. You have to understand, Nardo."
"I do understand," said Bernardo. "But Wickie won't. He'll kill you personally."
"But why, I won't tell any of the secrets," said Lisa. "All I want is my freedom."
Bernardo looked at her for a moment, sighed and said, "So, what do you want me to do?"
"I want you to help me escape from this," said Lisa. "I know I'm asking a lot, but there is no one else to help me. Please, Nardo?"
Bernardo heaved another sigh. "Okay..."
"Thank you so much!" Lisa hugged him. "I have to figure out how I'm going to do this. But maybe you can think about it, too?"
"Yes."
"But Wickie can't find out, not yet," said Lisa.
"Okay."
"Thank you so much, Nardo, you're a good friend."
Bernardo nodded and smiled, sick inside at the thought of what he was going to have to do to her.
The next morning; Pemberley Fashions
Lisa arrived at work with a smile on her face. With Bernardo on her side, she had no doubt that she was going to overcome the situation and finally win her freedom. The difficulties that had seemed insurmountable only a day ago, now seemed moderate or even trivial. Lisa had faith that nothing would go wrong, and eventually, she'd be able to lead a life with William, as they both deserved. Thinking of William, Lisa's smile widened even more and she decided to pay him a visit before going to work. When she reached his offices, Lisa said,
"Is Mr. Darcy in?"
"Mr. Darcy is very busy," said the assistant. "I don't think he wants to see anyone."
"Tell him that Ms. Benz is waiting outside, please," said Lisa. "I think he'll want to see me."
The assistant buzzed William, informing him of Lisa's presence and was told to let her in. Lisa gave the assistant a triumphant look and went inside. She found William standing at the window. Hearing her footsteps he turned around, and on beholding her, a handsome smile spread over his features.
"Lisa!" he greeted her. "I've missed you."
"Already?" smiled Lisa, coming near him. "We've been apart one night."
"One night's enough," grinned William. He hugged her tightly.
Just as this exchange concluded, the door swung open again and Caroline appeared.
"Caroline! What're you doing here?" demanded William, as Lisa shrank away from his embrace.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't the two love birds," said Caroline with a sneer.
William and Lisa exchanged glances, then William said, "What do you want Caroline?"
"Nothing, really," said Caroline. "Just wanted to see how you were doing."
"I'm doing great, thank you. Now can you leave?" said William.
"And what about you...Lisa?" asked Caroline, ignoring William.
"Fine, thank you," said Lisa, thinking that Caroline had finally gone crazy.
"That's good," said Caroline, but she seemed in no hurry to leave. She looked at Lisa, "Do you want me to tell him, Lisa?"
"I don't know what you're talking about," said Lisa. She's bluffing. She can't possibly know...
"Oh, I think you do," said Caroline.
"Do you have a point, Caroline?" William was getting impatient.
"In fact, I do," said Caroline. "It's so important that maybe you should sit down for it."
"Listen, I really don't have time for your games, Caroline. So why don't you just leave," said William.
"Wait, just hear me out for a moment, please."
William looked at her, then sighed, "Okay, but make it quick."
Caroline smiled and said, "I will." She looked at Lisa, then said, "I've been doing some investigating and what I found surprised me a great deal and I thought that you deserve the right to know it."
"Know what?" prompted William.
"The woman that you know as Lisa Benz is, in fact, a liar and a criminal. She's in the Mafia."
Chapter 17
Author's Warning: This chapter contains some violence William stared at Caroline as if she had gone mad. Finally, he said, "Caroline, why don't you take rest of the day off. I think you can use the rest."
Caroline smirked, "You don't believe me, do you? You think I'm crazy!"
William could hardly contradict her, but to spare Caroline's feelings, he said, "No, I just think you're tired...or stressed, perhaps."
"No, William, I've never felt better in my life," smiled Caroline, her face positively glowing at the thought of what damage she was about to deliver. "I'm telling you, it's true. Lisa is a fake, a phony. She's a dangerous criminal."
"Caroline...," William's tone was approaching one of anger and irritation. "If you insist on your deluding yourself like this..."
"Fine, don't believe me, then," said Caroline with a challenging look in her eyes. "Ask "Lisa" yourself. Go on, ask her."
William sighed and turned to face Lisa. "I'm really sorry about this, Lisa...," he began to apologize for Caroline's rudeness, but stopped, shocked at what he saw. Lisa's averted gaze and lowered head pointed to some disturbing conclusions. She refused to look at William and for the first time, a sick fear crept up into William's heart.
"Lisa? Look at me," William commanded.
Lisa looked at William slowly, a few tears escaping her eyes. "William, I'm sorry..."
Oh god, no. "It can't be...tell me she's lying, Lisa. Tell me Caroline is just lying. Please." There was a desperation in William's voice.
Lisa hung her head, but did not speak. Caroline watched the tension between them and jumped at the opportunity to discredit Lisa even further. "I hired a PI to investigate Lisa because I sensed something was fishy. And you know what happened? Her friends killed the PI...brutally murdered him. She's really slippery herself, I think..."
"Caroline," said William sharply, his voice cold and the edge in it unmistakable. "Leave us alone. Now."
Caroline could not disobey because the tone of William's voice indicated that he would brook no opposition. At any rate, her job there was done. Caroline gave a last, triumphant look to Lisa and left the office wordlessly. As soon as Caroline exited the office, William turned his attention back on Lisa. He watched her for a few moments, then slowly said,
"So, it's true?"
Lisa looked at him, with a desperate fear in her eyes. "Yes," she said in a small voice. "But it's not like that..."
William walked to the window and said, "Is it not? Then explain to me what it is."
Lisa closed her eyes. This was a nightmare. It wasn't happening. It wasn't supposed to happen this way. It was just a terrible nightmare and she would wake from it presently. She opened her eyes again, but she was still standing in the middle of William's office, his back turned towards her. He would never forgive her now. It was all over. All over. In a matter of minutes. All her dreams washed away. Burned in the eternal fire of her hell. Forever.
"I...," Lisa began, but stopped. She couldn't go on. What was there to say? How could she explain her change of heart. "I was hired to destroy you..."
"By whom?" William said sharply, not looking at her still.
"George Wickham," replied Lisa.
"Better and better," said William, the bitterness evident in his voice.
"Please William," said Lisa. "Try to understand...I was hired to destroy you, but I couldn't. I couldn't do it. I...fell in love with you..."
William turned to face Lisa. His eyes were cold, blazing with anger and hatred. They were detached and unmerciful. "Am I supposed to thank you for that?"
"No," said Lisa, sharply. She looked away. "No."
"But I will anyway," said William. "Thank you for not killing me, Lisa."
"Stop it, William," Lisa couldn't bear it. "This is hard enough already."
"Oh, it's too hard on you, is it? I'm sorry, I was under the impression that you, Mafia-types didn't care much for trivial things like emotion," William said, sarcasm dripping from his every word.
Lisa looked at William straight in the eye and held his gaze. The iciness she found there chilled her to the core. This time it was he who looked away. "I didn't mean to hurt you, William. I was going to tell you."
"When?" demanded William. "After I made a complete fool of myself? Or after your boss Wickham ordered you to kill me?"
"I'm leaving the Mafia, William...," said Lisa slowly.
"That's priceless, really!" William laughed. "What did I do to deserve the honor of you leaving your job? Let me guess...maybe it's the size of my bank account? Or weren't you getting paid enough to trick me into thinking you cared?"
Lisa glared at William and said, "Dammit, William. I did care. I do care. Can't you see? I didn't mean for any of this to happen."
"I'm sure you didn't," muttered William.
Lisa sighed and looked at William pleadingly, "Do you think you could ever see past this?"
William held her gaze for a moment and said, "I wish I could, but I can't. You lied to me, Lisa. I don't think I could ever trust you again."
"That's only fair," mumbled Lisa. "I guess there's nothing more to say."
William looked at Lisa and for a moment, Lisa detected a hint of love. But the look vanished as suddenly as it had appeared and Lisa sighed. She walked slowly to where William was standing and then, stopped a few feet away from him. Then, as if making a resolve she came even closer and kissed him softly on his cheeks.
"Goodbye, William. I promise you, you won't have to see me ever again."
With that and a last parting look, Lisa turned on her heels and practically ran out of the room. William stood immobile for several seconds before walking slowly to the window and staring out at nothingness.
1 hour later; St. James Hospital; Psychiatric Ward # 2
"He hates me, Jane, he hates me," cried Lisa as she sank into the chair next to the hospital bed. "I don't know if I can take it."
Jane opened her eyes at the sound of Lisa's voice and looked at her. "Don't cry."
Lisa looked at her sister. Jane's voice was remarkably clear and calm, almost as if she was herself again. Lisa held her breath. Was Jane coming back? After all these years? Was it even possible? "I...Jane? Can you hear me?"
Jane looked at Lisa, her gaze vacant and blank again, but presently she closed her eyes and said, "...yes..."
Lisa could hardly contain her excitement. "Oh my god, Jane? It's really you."
Jane opened her eyes and mumbled, "Lizzy?"
The next instant, Lisa was sitting beside Jane and holding her sister. Jane hugged Lisa, holding her close as if trying to protect her from an outside force. Tears unwittingly flowed from Lisa's eyes. After so many years of suffering, she had almost given up hope. Almost. The doctor's had always told her that Jane could come back anytime. But after so many years of disappointment, Lisa had stopped believing in that. And now, she was holding her sister and a part of Lisa never wanted to leave the comfort of the embrace.
Still holding Lisa, Jane softly said, "Do you know about...the fire?"
Lisa almost cried at the sound of Jane's sweet voice. "Yes."
"Did anyone...?" The question was not finished.
Lisa broke the embrace and looked at Jane with sad eyes, "No."
"Oh god," was all that Jane could say. She was silent for a moment. "I tried to save them...but I was too late. Lizzy, I could hear their cries. They were crying for help. But I couldn't do anything. The smoke was too thick. I couldn't go in. I should have gone in, Lizzy. I should have tried to go in...I'm so sorry..." Jane broke into tears again.
"It's not your fault, Jane," Lisa comforted her sister. "You couldn't have done anything. Don't blame yourself." Then, after a few moments of silence. "How long have you...remembered?"
Jane looked at Lisa, "When you came in and started crying...I felt a tug in my heart. I needed to reach out and help you...it was then that I remembered...everything. Why were you crying, Lizzy?"
Lisa smiled slightly, "It's a long story, Jane."
"I want to hear it."
"Some other time," said Lisa. "Now that you're back, you can hear all the stories you want."
"When can I go home?" asked Jane.
Home. What home? Lisa thought of her tiny, dilapidated apartment and cried inwardly. "Soon," she said. "I have some business to take care of, Jane, but I'll come back for you soon. Meanwhile, you get some rest, okay?"
"All right," nodded Jane and smiled sweetly, her blue eyes lively and luminous. Lisa kissed her softly on her forehead and rose to take her leave. Jane said, "Bye, Lizzy, I love you."
Lisa was almost at the door. She looked at the only person in the world who loved her and said, "I love you, too, Jane."
Half an hour later
Lisa had ambivalent feelings as she ascended the steps to her apartment. While on the one hand, she had lost everything she had worked so hard to achieve with William, on the other hand, she had her sister back. Lisa knew that nothing could ever make up for the lost time between Jane and herself, but at least, now she had someone to share her trials and tribulations with. As for William, Lisa sighed. She didn't know what to think. There was nothing left to do, she supposed. He despised her and would never understand why she had done what she had. He would hate her for the rest of his life and she would have to live with the knowledge of what could have been. Lisa didn't know what was worse: knowing that William hated or, or knowing that she could have avoided it. At any rate, Lisa knew that she had hurt him really badly, unwittingly so, but she had. If only there was some way to undo the damage...But there wasn't. In a year, he would forget about her and marry someone suitable; Anne, perhaps, and she would be left forever with an uncertain future and a broken heart.
Lisa did not regret knowing William. She would not have given it up for a lifetime, but she did regret the circumstances that surrounded their all-too-brief relationship. Now all she was left with were memories. Memories. Of how things were and how they could have been. Memories of moonlit dinners in Mexico and passion-filled nights in Switzerland. That was all that Lisa had to hold on to in order to be able to go on. But of all the things that hurt her about William's rejection of her, the one thing that hurt her most was his belief that her love had all been an act. She couldn't blame him, she supposed, but it really hurt to know that he could doubt her love like that. What had she expected anyway? After all, she was just a cheap criminal, wasn't she?
With such somber thoughts in her head, Lisa came upon her apartment door and was about to turn the lock when she noticed it was ajar. A trifle surprised, she walked in and turned on the lights.
"Bernardo!" she exclaimed, seeing the familiar figure standing near the window. "I wasn't expecting on seeing you here."
Bernardo looked at Lisa and said, "I'm so sorry, bellezza."
Lisa looked at Bernardo with a curious look on her face, "For what?"
Bernardo did not have an opportunity to reply, as a column of smoke rising from the couch explained it all. Momentarily, a quiet voice was heard, "Nothing like some Cuban cigars, eh Lisa?"
"Wickie," muttered Lisa, disbelieving her misfortune. She looked at Bernardo and mumbled, "How could you, Nardo?"
Meanwhile, Wickie had exerted himself so much as to raise himself from the couch and approach Lisa with a small smile playing on his lips. Lisa felt fear envelop her as he advanced until he was only a feet away from her. "Aren't you glad to see me, babe?"
Lisa found her voice. "Yes."
"Good answer," said Wickie. "Good answer." He walked slowly past Lisa to where Bernardo was standing. "Are you sure she's leaving us, Nardo." Bernardo didn't reply. Wickie looked at Lisa again. "Is that true, Lisa?"
"Yes, but...listen to me, Wickie..."
"No, you listen to me, b****," thundered Wickie. "Nobody, I mean nobody, gets away from Wickie that easy. You hear me."
"Yes," Lisa lowered her eyes. Wickie was very close to her now. He raised his hand and slapped her. Lisa fell back several steps from the shock. Bernardo began to protest and Wickie said,
"Shut up," he approached Lisa again and laughed as she retreated a little. "You afraid of me, b****. Are you afraid of me, now?"
"No," said Lisa, in a decided tone. "I'm not afraid of you, you scumbag. You can beat me all you want, but I'm not afraid." And she slapped him with all her force.
The room was silent. Wickie was in complete shock, still reeling from the impact. He glared at Lisa and then, clenched his fists, anger overwhelming all his senses. He grabbed Lisa by her arms and flung her on the floor. He found the still-burning cigar on the table and approached Lisa. He placed the burning end of the cigar on her hands and Lisa moaned from the pain.
"Now, say you're sorry," said Wickie. "Say it."
Even in all her pain, Lisa looked at Wickie with hatred in her eyes and said, "I'd rather die first."
"Oh, you're gonna die, b****. Very soon," said Wickie and kicked her viciously.
In her semi-conscious state, Lisa saw him taking out his gun. She didn't have the strength to get up or move, but she knew she couldn't give up. She yelled, "Nardo! Help me! Please! Help me, Nardo."
"Shut up," shouted Wickie, kicking Lisa once again.
Lisa closed her eyes. She had known that the end would come, but she had never foreseen it would come like this. The sound of the subsequent gun shot reverberated through the building, spelling inevitable doom.
Chapter 18
Lisa lay, motionless, very still, waiting for her doom. She had not the strength or the will to fight. The sound of the gunshot seemed far removed from her as if she had been transported to an alternate reality. She waited for the impact, waited for the sweet arms of death to envelop her. But she waited in vain. A little confused, she opened her eyes and to her horror, saw Wickie and Bernardo wrestling with the gun. A pool of blood collected between them and even with her hazy grasp on reality, Lisa knew that something was seriously wrong. The bullet that had undoubtedly been meant for her had failed to reach its target, losing itself on the way instead.
"Lisa, run away. Now. Go!" shouted Bernardo.
"Dammit Nardo, let go!" yelled Wickie in frustration.
Lisa managed to sit up. For the first time she noticed the source of the blood: Nardo. His plan, white shirt had been drenched in blood completely, transforming it into a deep, ghoulish red that shocked Lisa and jarred her into reality. She instantly became aware of the precariousness of the situation and looked around for some means to help Nardo. After all, he was risking his life for her. The least she could do was help him escape from Wickie. Thinking thus, Lisa raised herself from the floor and began her quest for a heavy object to hit Wickie with. Still a little shaky, she tried to go into the kitchen, but in vain. The entrance was blocked by the struggling duo and Lisa could do nothing but stand and watch. A second shot was fired, this time hitting Lisa in her leg. She screamed in pain as the bullet penetrated her fragile skin. Blood oozed and Lisa felt faint. Meanwhile, Wickie swore and lunged forward, knocking Nardo several feet backwards. But Nardo was quick to recover himself and as he did, he screamed,
"For chrissake, bellezza, get out of here. Now!"
Lisa hesitated, but the pleading quality of Nardo's voice put her out of her indecision. She said, "I'm leaving, but I'm going to get help for you, Nardo. Just hold on." She began limping out the room, trying her best to ignore the excruciating pain in the distal portion of her tibia fibulas.
Nardo did not seem to hear her, but as Lisa began to depart, he said, "Tell Maria I love her."
Lisa choked back tears as she limped out of her apartment. Maria was Nardo's wife of twenty-six years. She was like a mother to Lisa. How would Lisa ever face her again if something happened to Nardo? Throwing that morbid thought out of her mind, Lisa stood in the hallway and began screaming, "Someone call 911. Please. Help me. A man's been shot. I need your help."
There was no response. The neighbors had apparently decided to ignore her. Desperate, Lisa tried banging on several doors, but still was unable to elicit any response. "Do any of you have a conscience? A man could be dying right now. Someone please call an ambulance."
Suddenly, Lisa heard another shot from her room, and then there was silence. Fearing the worst, Lisa began running. She ran to the end of the hall and down the flight of stairs, taking several steps at a time. With each step, the pain in her right leg only multiplied in intensity, but she ignored it, concentrating instead on the more immediate concern of survival. When she was at the bottom, she heard rapid steps descending. Fearing that it was Wickie, Lisa quickened her pace and ran out into the street. She paused to catch her breath and then, without a thought, began running, dragging her right foot behind her. The night had fallen, the sunset having occurred several hours past. Lisa took comfort in the darkness of the street that enveloped her providing her with temporary protection. When Lisa looked over her shoulder, she saw, much to her horror, the all-too-familiar form of Wickie behind her. What about Nardo? Thought Lisa in dismay. Does this mean...? Lisa couldn't bear to even think about it. With the throbbing pain in her leg slowing her considerably, Lisa knew that Wickie had the distinct advantage of speed, an advantage that might prove very fatal for her.
Lisa glanced back once again and saw that Wickie was gaining on her. Panicking, she forced herself to quicken her pace once again, however painful it might be. She spied a small, dark alley immediately in front of her and with some hesitation, turned into it. Lisa knew that at this rate, she had no chance of eluding Wickie, so, she scrambled towards a small nightclub that she had previously frequented and with whose proprietor she was intimately acquainted. Lisa entered the club, hoping fervently that Wickie had not seen her. As she paused to collect her breath, Joe Gonzales, the owner came to greet her.
"Eh, Lisa?! Long time, no see, huh? How ya been?" he stopped. "You're bleeding."
"I was shot," said Lisa. "I need to hide for a little while. Can I go to the back?"
Joe hesitated. "Hey Lisa, I love ya and everything, but I don't want no trouble with the cops. Ya know what I mean? They closed this place down twice before and,..."
"It's not the cops, Joe, please help me, or Wickie will kill me," Lisa pleaded desperately.
Joe relented, "All right, go on back. Daisy, take Lisa and give her something to drink."
"Thanks," said Lisa, trying to smile, but unable to because of the pain. "Whatever you do, don't let Wickie know I'm here."
With the help of Daisy, a blue-eyed blond in a skimpy negligée, Lisa hopped on her left foot and managed to reach Daisy's dressing room. Once she was seated, Daisy inspected the fresh wound and said, "You should see a doctor right now. Want me to call an ambulance?"
It'll take too long. Wickie's outside. "No," said Lisa, feeling her eyes droop in response to the pain. She fought to remain conscious and in control. "I'll be fine. Bring me a knife, will you? And some bandage."
"A knife?" repeated Daisy, surprised.
"A clean one, if you have it," nodded Lisa, repressing moans. "Please hurry."
"Alright," said Daisy and promptly left the room.
Lisa sat back in the chair and closed her eyes momentarily, pondering her next step. She couldn't go to the police, not with Jane still in the hospital and Wickie's men out to find her. She needed someone to help her smuggle Jane out the hospital, away from Wickie's reach. And then, she'd disappear forever. Lisa heard some commotion outside and instinctively knew that Wickie had arrived. She limped to the door and tried to hear what was happening.
"I know she's in here. I saw the trail of blood." It was undoubtedly Wickie's voice.
"You're wrong, pal," Now it was Joe. "There ain't no redhead here, well, except for Jodie over there. But she's been in here all night."
Lisa heard Wickie swear violently and she needn't hear any more. I've got to get out of here fast. It would only be a matter of time before Wickie found his way to Daisy's room. Deciding to forgo any immediate treatment to her leg, Lisa scanned the room for any visible means of escape. Finding it in the form of a rear exit, Lisa was instantly on her feet and out of the room. She found herself in the darkness of the alley once again and began running. The pitter-patter of the softly falling rain drowned the sound of Lisa's light footsteps as she literally ran for her life. She glanced back with some degree of frequency, not willing to let complacency overcome her for heaven knew the danger was far from over. Exhausted and numb from pain, Lisa managed to drag herself for two blocks, all the while scanning the streets for suspicious looking figures. Whenever she heard footsteps close to her, she was seized with the fear that Wickie had managed to locate her, but every time her fears were proved unfounded and she chastised herself for being so paranoid.
Lisa came upon the comparative safety of the subway station and impulsively got into the train. The station was almost empty except for a few caretakers and otherwise threatening loiterers. Lisa found a seat and sat down with a groan. For the first time, she inspected her wound and feared that the prospects were not good. The blood had still not stopped oozing and now Lisa tied her scarf around the open wound, hoping that would stop the blood for the time being. She closed her eyes, feeling drowsy. She fought the great impulse to fall asleep by contemplating her next moves. But whatever else, Lisa did not allow herself to ponder the events that had precipitated in her apartment. She was not mentally strong enough to face that challenge. There would be more than enough time for guilt later.
Gina Darcy paced in front of the door, sick with worry at the uncharacteristic absence of her brother. The aggravated weather conditions did not allay her fears as Gina considered calling local hospitals. It was not like William to stay out so late and not call her. Gina didn't know what to think. She sat down on the couch, but instantly began pacing again. Perhaps she should call Charlie; he might know. Gina was just reaching for the phone when she heard the sound of lock turning. Moments later, a drenched William appeared. He looked at Gina, then quietly opened his coat and walked in. He sat down on the couch without a word, offering no explanations. An infuriated Gina stood in front of him and said,
"Will! Where have you been? I called you 10 thousand times and left a million messages with your secretary. Do you know it's past midnight! I was worried sick. Didn't it occur to you to call?" Gina's voice shook with emotion. She stopped. It didn't even seem as if he was listening to her. "Will, say something."
"I'm sorry," said William softly, still staring straight ahead.
Gina said in a calmer voice. "Where were you?"
"Walking, thinking,..." replied William in a distant voice.
Gina looked at him with concern. "In the rain?"
"In the rain," said William.
Gina regarded her brother with infinite concern. "I'm sorry, Will."
"For what?" he asked, looking at her for the first time.
"I know," said Gina. "Caroline told me."
William instantly looked away. "Oh."
"I'm so sorry," repeated Gina.
"There's nothing to be sorry about," said William. "It happened. That's all."
Gina didn't for a second buy his nonchalance. But she said, "So, what are you going to do?"
"Me? Nothing," said William. "Nothing at all."
"But you have to talk to her. There must be a good reason."
"There always is, Gina, there always is. But I don't want to know. I really don't."
"I don't believe it. You love her. You can't just turn your back on her. Please, Will, just talk to her. Let her explain. And that the end of the day, if you still feel the same way, well, you can decide what happens then," Gina said with some conviction.
Her brother eyed her sadly, then said, "It's not that simple, Gina."
"Why not?"
"It's just not," he said. "Now can you please leave? I want to be alone."
Gina only nodded briefly and quietly left the room.
Lisa alighted from the train, almost certain that she didn't have the strength or the energy to continue. But the image of Nardo's bloodstained shirt propelled her further, as she slowly ascended the subway stairs. Once out in the open, Lisa found that the rain had transformed from a harmless drizzle to something more violent and perpetual. She paused, trying to clear her mind that had been rendered hazy in light of the pain. He's my only chance. If he turns me away, I might as well die tonight. Lisa slowly commenced to walk again; the raindrops feeling cold when coming into contact with her burning skin. Lisa single mindedly concentrated on reaching her destination and when she was finally there, she rang the doorbell, ready to capitulate due to exhaustion. Moments later, the door opened and in between gasps for breath, Lisa said,
"Help me, please."
And then she collapsed.
Chapter 19
The white clouds enveloped her as she treaded ever so slightly. The nebulous surroundings and the gentle breeze gave her a slight giddy feeling as if she were soaring in the sky. She couldn't see where she was headed, but she blindly walked towards some unknown haze. The powerful force that attracted her forwards continued to exert its influence on her and the source of it soon became visible itself.
"Hello, Lisa."
"William! I...what are you doing here?"
"Shhh," he hushed her and quietly motioned her to come closer. "I've missed you."
"I'm so sorry, William. I was going to tell you..."
"It doesn't matter. None of it matters. I don't care about who you were, what you did or why you did it. All I care about is who you are now."
"Oh William," she whispered softly, but suddenly felt a gentle tap on her shoulders. Turning around she found herself staring into the dark, intense eyes of Bernardo. His left arm covered his blood-drenched stomach and he reached for her with his other hand, also covered in blood and trembling slightly. His eyes were accusing and full of reproach.
"You did this to me. I'll never see Maria again because of you."
"Nardo, I tried to help you, but..."
"Like hell, you tried. You did nothing but save yourself. You don't care about me. All you care about is getting that rich guy. And I used to think of you as my daughter. How will you face Maria now? And my kids?"
She felt hot tears streaming down her face and when she turned around, William was slowly walking away. "No wait!" she screamed.
"I've seen enough," he replied, glancing at her. "You are a murderess. You killed him. You don't deserve to be happy."
"No, William, wait, please...it wasn't my fault...Wickie was..."
"Stop making excuses for yourself," he said with a tinge of spite. "You know very well, in your heart, that you are responsible for all of this..."
"But I did it for my sister," she cried, sinking to the ground, unable to bear her own weight any longer.
"You tell yourself that, if it gives you comfort."
"William!"
"Lisa?"
Lisa was aware of a hand on her forehead. "Lisa? Can you hear me?"
"William," she moaned softly.
"Lisa, open your eyes, please, if you can hear me."
With a conscious effort, she opened her eyes and mumbled, "William?"
"No, Lisa, it's me," answered Rick. "You're safe."
Lisa suddenly became aware of her surroundings. She was lying on the floor in Rick's living room. It all came back to her. She sat up with a bolt. She was soaking wet and shots of pain originating from her leg coursed through her body. She shivered slightly and looked at Rick. He regarded her for a moment, then said,
"We've got to get you to a hospital."
Lisa nodded slightly. She looked at Rick. "I'm sorry I came here. I know you've probably heard about me by now and I...."
"Shhh," Rick shook his head. "Don't talk. You don't have the strength right now. Come on. We're going to the emergency room."
"You have to listen to me, Rick," pleaded Lisa. "I need to tell you this..."
Rick scooped her into his arms and carried her to his car. "Alright," he said laying her in the back. He got into the driver's seat and headed for the hospital. "What do you want to say?"
"I didn't mean to hurt anyone, Rick. You have to believe me."
"I do," he whispered softly.
"I got into this mess a long time ago...due to the circumstances. It's hard to explain. At that time, it didn't seem like I had many choices. Now I know that I probably did, but I was young then, Rick...and stupid. Oh, I was so stupid." She stopped. "But it wasn't all for me. My sister is still in the hospital...I did this for her..."
"You don't have to explain," said Rick. "I'm sure you had your reasons. I don't blame you. I don't think anyone does."
"Oh, William blames me," Lisa closed her eyes, remembering the words from her dream. Stop making excuses for yourself...You don't deserve to be happy. "He blames me. He hates me."
Rick did not respond, aware of the truth in her statement. Caroline had been abuzz with the latest news of William's repudiation of 'that girl' as she put it. She had been only too eager to share the story with anyone who'd hear her and Rick had heard her. At first, he had not given any credence to Caroline's story, however, her earnestness and the subsequent departure of William from the office forced him to alter his views. However, he found that it did not surprise him. At some level he had known that there was more to Lisa than what met the eye. He did not jump to conclusions either, withholding any judgement till he became aware of the facts.
"Lisa, I..."
"Don't call me that," she said sharply.
"Don't call you what?" asked Rick confused, glancing at the rear view mirror.
"Lisa. That isn't my name," she replied.
"Then what is your name?"
"Elizabeth," answered she. "Elizabeth Bennett."
"Elizabeth," Rick murmured. "That's a pretty name. It suits you."
She smiled a little, her eyes closed. "I'm not going back to 'Lisa' again. But I need your help."
Rick hesitated momentarily, then said, "Whatever you need."
2 hours later
"How do you feel?" asked Rick, entering the room and sitting beside Elizabeth. He smiled at her gently and she responded with a brief smile.
"Very well given the circumstance. Did you find out about my sister?"
"Yes, the doctors are still keeping her here. Just as a precaution. She has been very sick for sometime. They just don't want to make a mistake. Are you sure there's no other way?"
"No," said Elizabeth resolutely. "You don't know Wickie like I do. He never forgives or forgets. Once he realizes that I slipped out of his fingers, he'll come after Jane. I can't afford that, Rick. I really can't take that risk. She's an open target for him. I must get her out of here tonight."
"You're not strong enough to do this," said Rick.
Elizabeth looked at the cast on her leg. "It's just a gunshot wound. I'll live."
"You're lucky that you didn't lose too much blood," said Rick, with a hint of reproach.
"Yeah, I know," Elizabeth nodded gravely.
Rick sighed. He didn't say anything for a few moments, just studying her face. "What will you do next?"
"Leave New York. Forever," Elizabeth paused.
"And go where?" prompted Rick.
Elizabeth sighed, "I don't know."
"Stay with me?" said Rick suddenly.
"I couldn't Rick."
"Why not?" he protested. "Wickie doesn't know me. He wouldn't be able to find you. You and your sister would be safe."
"No, Rick," Elizabeth shook her head. "I could never allow you to risk your life like that." She paused. "Now, let's go get Jane."
"Alright, but the subject is not closed yet."
Elizabeth did not reply. With much effort, she raised herself from the bed and with Rick's help, sat in a wheelchair. Rick wheeled her towards Jane's room. Elizabeth scanned the hospital crowd for Wickie or his associates. She relaxed slightly at not seeing them, but she knew that it was only a matter of time. Wickie would not forgive her and she and Jane would have to pay if he ever found them. Elizabeth shuddered at that thought and hoped to god that he would never find her. When they arrived at Jane's ward, Elizabeth slowly stood up and knocked on the door. When she heard no response, she knocked again and then cautiously opened the door and peeped inside. The room was empty.
"Where is she?!" exclaimed Elizabeth panicking. She turned to Rick. "She's gone."
"Don't panic," ordered Rick as he spotted a nurse. "Do you know where the patient is?"
The nurse shook her head, "No...but I think a man came to visit her an hour ago."
"Wickie," she whispered under her breath. "Oh god." A thousand disturbing images flashed in front of Elizabeth's eyes.
Chapter 20
"There's a missing patient. She couldn't have gone far," said Rick rapidly to the nurse.
The nurse nodded, "I'll inform the doctors immediately and start searching in the building."
"Great, thanks," said Rick, turning his attention to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth felt the room spin around her as she grabbed onto the door for support. Rick noticed her dizziness and was immediately at her side. He steadied her, supporting her with his strong arms. Elizabeth collapsed in his arms and he slowly brought her to the bed and made her lie down. She did not, however, stay in that position for long. Within a few minutes, Elizabeth opened her eyes and sat up. Rick had not left the bedside and was the first thing she laid her eyes on. Elizabeth did not speak for several moments. The pain and anguish of her green eyes conveyed her helplessness and despair. A few tears escaped the corner of her eyes, which she did not bother to dry. At length, she said,
"Why?"
"Elizabeth...," Rick searched for the right words. "We don't know anything for sure..."
"I do," said Elizabeth with confidence. "He's taken her."
"There might be someone else...," suggested Rick softly.
"Who?" challenged Elizabeth. "Jane did not know anyone here. I'm telling you, Rick. Wickie got to her. My god, I was lying in that emergency room when I could have come here. I could have saved her. It's my fault. It's all my fault."
"Listen to me," said Rick firmly. "Getting shot was not your fault. Okay? Now, about Jane, she could just be out wandering somewhere. You don't know that Wickie has her. Let's not jump to conclusions."
Elizabeth heard his words, but did not seem to hear him. "You don't understand..."
"What don't I understand?"
"Wickie. It's him. I can feel him. He was here, in this room...," Elizabeth whispered, her voice trailing off.
"You're being paranoid," Rick informed her.
"Am I?"
"Yes."
"Well, I have every right to be. I saw my house burnt down, my entire family killed and Jane was all that I had left. And now...," Elizabeth took a deep breath. "I...he has her, too."
"Elizabeth, listen to me," commanded Rick. "Stop it, now. Think positive. Jane will be alright. She has to be. The nurse will find her and she'll be alright. You have to believe it, Elizabeth."
Elizabeth absorbed his words. "You're right. For all I know, she might just be taking a walk."
"Exactly," said Rick encouragingly. "Now give me a smile."
Elizabeth didn't have time to respond. There was a knock on the door and a cheery voice said, "Hey, Jane, it's me. Can I come in?" Moments later, Charlie Bingley walked in with a huge grin, then, stopped. He took a few steps back and then, exclaimed, "Lisa? Rick?! What are you doing here?"
Elizabeth looked at Charlie, astonished, "The question is, what are you doing here?"
Charlie looked equally confused, "I was here to visit -...do you know Jane?"
Elizabeth laughed briefly at the question. "Do I know her? She's my sister!"
"She is?" Charlie mumbled.
"Yes," said Elizabeth.
"So, where is she?"
Elizabeth's face darkened. "I don't know. Maybe you could help me."
"What do you mean, you don't know. She has to be here. She's not allowed to leave."
"Charlie, she's not here," repeated Elizabeth in a sharp tone.
"I can see that," muttered Charlie. For the first time noticing her leg, he added, "What happened to your leg?"
"Gunshot wound, no biggie," Elizabeth made light of the matter.
Charlie's face dropped. "Are you serious? My god, are you alright? How'd it happen?"
"It's alright, I'm fine," said Elizabeth. "It's a long story."
Charlie exchanged uncomfortable glances with Rick as he said, "Um...Caroline was...ahem...talking about you. I heard about what happened with William. I'm sorry, Lisa."
A flicker of pain registered in Elizabeth's eyes. "Yeah, I'm sorry, too."
Charlie did not speak. Uncomfortable silence ensued, broken by the entrance of the nurse. "I'm sorry, ma'am, we can't find her on hospital grounds. The doctors will be here soon."
"I can't believe you just let the patient walk away!" exploded Elizabeth. "She was very sick. And there was a stranger in her room. Why was there a strange man in her room? How could you let her walk away?!"
The young nurse looked scared. She stuttered. "I a-am...s-sorry. I tried t-to find h-her..."
"It's okay," Rick interjected at the pathetic sight of the young girl. "It's not your fault."
The nurse looked at him gratefully and practically ran. Elizabeth looked away as she muttered, "Incompetent fools."
"You know it's not her fault, Elizabeth," said Rick gently.
She looked at him. "You're right." She sighed. "Just the thought of Wickie with Jane makes my blood boil..."
"Hold on now," said Charlie. "Who's Wickie?"
Elizabeth looked at Charlie for a long time, then said, "A former business associate."
Charlie studied her face for sometime, then looked at her leg. "Did he do that to you?" Elizabeth only nodded. Charlie gasped, "Oh god! Are you telling me that Jane is with some trigger-happy maniac?!"
"Hold on a minute," said Rick. "We don't know that he has her."
"But he could?" protested Charlie. "It's too dangerous. We have to call the cops."
"The cops don't act on a 'missing person' case until it has been 24 hours," said Rick.
She might not have 24 hours, thought Elizabeth, then instantly erased that thought from her mind. She looked at the concerned Charlie and said, "You didn't tell me, Charlie, how do you know my sister?"
"I met her here a few months ago and have kept in touch," said Charlie. "She's a very lovely person, Lisa."
"I know, thank you," Elizabeth said gratefully.
Before another word could be said, the door opened again and Gina appeared. "Is she here yet?"
"No," answered Elizabeth.
"Hey Charlie," greeted Gina. "Rick. Why, you're all here."
"Lisa and I happened to be in the hospital," said Rick, but Gina did not seem to be listening. She looked at Elizabeth with interest and murmured,
"Lisa...so, you're Lisa." There was some degree of wonder and interest in her eyes.
The intense look in her eyes seemed oddly familiar and Elizabeth shifted uncomfortably. "Yes...?"
Gina studied her for a few moments, then suddenly recovering herself, said in a brisk, businesslike tone. "Well, we'll do all we can. We'll alert the security to be in the lookout for Jane. There's nothing we can do in the meantime. So I suggest you all go home for now."
"I'm not going anywhere," said Elizabeth decidedly. "I'm staying right here."
"Please, there's nothing you can do," urged Rick.
Elizabeth looked at him resolutely. "I told you I'm not going. I'll wait right here."
Rick sighed, then looked at Gina. "I'll stay with her...we can wait in one of the waiting rooms..."
"I'll go and help them look for Jane," offered Charlie.
Gina only nodded. "Fine. You guys stay here then and I'll let you know if there are any developments."
"Thanks," muttered Elizabeth. After Gina and Charlie departed, she sighed heavily and looked at Rick. "You don't have to stay here, you know."
"I know," smiled Rick slightly. "I want to stay here."
Elizabeth searched his face. "Why?"
"To help you," answered Rick.
"After everything I've done to you..." Elizabeth's voice trailed off.
"I told you it didn't matter," said Rick. "You need a friend and I'm here for you. That's all. You don't have to question that or thank me. Just accept it."
Elizabeth smiled for the first time. "Thanks, Rick."
Rick nodded. "Now, let's get out of here."
~~
"I'm here to see Dr. Gina Darcy for a second, please?"
Elizabeth slowly blinked open her eyes. That voice. That deep, timbre voice. She would have recognized it in her sleep. But she had only been half asleep. Her eyes flew open. It was still rather early in the morning. Rick was still fast asleep. She was scared to turn around and look at the owner of that voice. But she did. Slowly, very slowly, Elizabeth turned her head and saw. Him. Standing. Waiting. For Gina Darcy. Darcy. It didn't surprise Elizabeth. Not at all. The previous night, Elizabeth had known something was different about Gina. The way she looked at her and the way she asked her if she was, indeed, Lisa. I guess she knows about me, then. I wonder what he told her. He was standing with his back towards her, but Elizabeth had no doubt it was him. Those strong, muscular arms, those firm legs, that dark, curly hair. It had to be him. She longed to go over and say something. Something. Anything. But she knew she couldn't. There was nothing left to say.
"Alright, I'll wait here...," he said once the receptionist came back.
Elizabeth turned her head around instantly. He could not see her here. What would he think? What would he say? What would he do? She dared not even breathe as he slowly walked over to the waiting area. She mustered the courage to steal a look and indeed, he was coming in her direction. It was too late to hide. Maybe he would see her and leave? She resigned herself to the inevitable. He walked to the waiting area and then, he saw her. He started, motionless for several excruciating seconds. Elizabeth raised her eyes and almost hoped that he'd leave instantly. But he didn't. Instead, he slowly walked and sat down in the couch facing her and picked up Time. Elizabeth cried inwardly. That's lovely. He's going to pretend that I don't even exist. She resolved on not saying a word herself, if that's what he wanted. Several minutes went by and the silence of the room remained unbroken.
Finally, William cast aside the magazine and said, "How long are we going to pretend?"
Surprised, Elizabeth said, "I'm not pretending."
William did not reply immediately. "I think I'd better leave."
"Don't bother yourself, I will," said Elizabeth and even as she tried to raise herself, the residual pain in her leg made her wince and she sank back onto the couch.
"What happened?" William tried to keep his question casual.
She looked at him and said, "An accident."
"You okay?" He couldn't conceal his concern.
"Fine," answered Elizabeth.
William sighed and said no more, picking up the magazine again. Elizabeth closed her eyes and took in a deep breath to steady her wildly beating heart. But before she could think or say anything else, she was interrupted by the announcement on the PA system. "Calling Lisa Benz. Lisa Benz. Calling Lisa Benz. A phone call for Lisa Benz." Startled, Elizabeth raised herself and slowly walked over to the receptionist area. The attendant handed her a phone and left.
"Hello?" said Elizabeth tentatively.
"Lisa, sweetheart! How ya been?"
Elizabeth's knees felt weak. Oh my god. "Where is my sister?!"
Wickie laughed on the other line. "Always so impatient, weren't ya?"
Elizabeth felt like crying. "If you so much as touch my sister, Wickie, I'm going to - "
"Do what?" taunted Wickie. "Get one thing straight, b****, I call the shots here. It's not up to you."
Elizabeth told herself to be calm. "Can I talk to her?"
"No, she's resting," said Wickie.
"God, if you did something to her...!"
"She's alright...for now." The threat was ominous.
Elizabeth felt the tears flow on her cheeks. "How can I trust you?"
"You've got no choice, hon."
"What do you want, Wickie."
"You, babe."
Elizabeth closed her eyes. "Alright. I'm coming. Just let my sister go."
"Not that fast," said Wickie. "You have a job first."
She sighed. "What?"
There was a pause on the other side. "A hit."
"I don't do that," said Elizabeth.
"You do now, or you'll see your sister's body chopped up into little, tiny pieces."
Elizabeth shuddered. "Wickie, don't make me do this. Please. I'm begging you."
"You should have thought of that before you crossed me, b****."
Elizabeth sighed heavily. "Who do I have to kill?"
Wickie chuckled. "William Darcy."
Chapter 21
Elizabeth couldn't believe her ears. "What?!"
"You heard me, babe. William Darcy."
This is just a horrible nightmare. You'll wake up. "You're kidding, right?"
"Nope," Wickie's amusement was evident from the tone of his voice.
"But why," Elizabeth said desperately. "He's not responsible for my actions. You have to know that. None of this is his fault. Please. Don't make me do this. I can't do it. You know I can't. Please."
Wickie laughed an eerie laugh on the other end. "It feels so good to have you beg like that. You don't get it, do ya? I'm not making some goddamn suggestion. This is the price you gotta pay for your sister's life."
Elizabeth felt tears flow down her cheeks. "Leave them out of this, Wickie. It's me you hate, not them. I crossed you, not them. If you want to see someone dead, let it be me. Just let them go, I'm begging you."
"You wanna die?" Wickie snorted. "I can arrange that too, but if you don't do as I say, Jane will not see the light of day."
"You can't make me chose," Elizabeth desperately sought some way out.
"I can and I will. You already have a death on your conscience. Can you survive another one?"
"Nardo," whispered Elizabeth, closing her eyes in pain.
"I didn't want him to die. He didn't deserve to die, Lisa. But he did. And it's your fault. You know that?"
"I know," Elizabeth was crying openly now. The attendant looked at her strangely, but she ignored those looks. "I know."
"So, what's it gonna be?" Wickie prompted.
There was a long pause. Elizabeth sighed heavily and said, "I'll do it."
Wickie just laughed in approval and hung up. For several moments after the end of the conversation, Elizabeth did not move. Indeed, she could not. The shock of what had just transpired had not set in yet. She stared vacantly, drying the silent tears outwardly as she cried inwardly. Judging from her countenance, one could not discern anything. The twinkle in her green eyes had suddenly vanished, replaced by a kind of cynical sadness. As Elizabeth limped back to the waiting area, she knew that she had made one of the most difficult decisions of her life. But she had no choice. God, she had no choice. She could not leave Jane at Wickie's mercy. Who knew what unmentionable torture he would subject her to? She had no illusions about the kind of horror Jane would have to face if she was left in Wickie's clutches. On the other hand... Elizabeth could not even contemplate it. She had accepted the proposition, but not yet reconciled to it. She stopped at the door when she saw that he was still sitting there. Of all the people in the world, he was the last one she wanted to see. The thought of what she would have to do sickened her. Just seeing him there scared her. How could she ever do it?
On hearing her footsteps, he looked up. She sat down wordlessly, but he continued to look at her. "Everything alright?"
She looked at him for a brief moment, then looked away. It was too painful. "Fine."
"You were crying," he said softly.
God, you're making this so difficult. "No, I wasn't," she claimed.
"I saw you," he said.
Why had he been looking and what had he heard? Elizabeth looked at him in surprise. "You did?"
William nodded self-consciously. "What happened?"
You don't want to know. "Nothing."
He stared at her for a long moment, then his expression hardened and he said coolly, "Alright."
She bit her lips. She had just effectively ended any chance of a reconciliation with him. He had cared enough to inquire after her and she had shot him down. The deep abyss that separated them had just widened. Elizabeth looked at him and then suddenly felt a strong urge to laugh at her own ridiculousness. She was facing the biggest crisis of her life and she was worrying about her relationship with him?! You're such an idiot. He might not be alive long enough for you to have a relationship with him. The thought chilled her, but its truth compelled her to acknowledge its inevitability. How can I kill the one man I have ever truly loved? How can I do it? I can't. There's no way I can stand and watch him die. But what of Jane? What of her sister who had already suffered more than her due?
Elizabeth closed her eyes. She had no choice. William had to die and a part of her would die him; the part of her that was gentle and soft, the part of her that had learned to love and be loved, the part of her that had dared to care. It would all end today. With William's life, in a sense, she would be taking her own. He is my life. She would never feel any of those softer emotions again, never. She would never be able to look herself in the mirror again. She would never lead a normal life, not when she knew that she had killed the one person who mattered to her most in the world. She was paying the price of her own bad choices, but she had never expected the price to be so great. If only there was some other way. If only she could spare William's life. If only a miracle could extricate her from the mess that had become her existence. But no such miracles would occur. Not today.
"William," she said slowly, in resignation.
"Yes?" he looked at her in surprise.
"I need to talk to you."
"I believe there is nothing left to say."
Elizabeth sighed inwardly. "Please, just give me 5 minutes. You owe that much to..."
"To what?" William said.
Elizabeth looked at him for a minute. "I won't argue with you. Will you meet me somewhere?"
He stared at her for a long time before answering. "Fine. Where do you want to meet?"
She told him. He nodded and said, "What's the occasion?"
"We just need to talk, that's all."
He looked at her thoughtfully. "We can talk here."
Oh my god, what am I doing? "Can you just come, please?"
"Alright, fine." He suddenly stood up and with a nod, abruptly left the waiting area. Elizabeth exhaled and lay back, a few tears escaping her eyes. He still hated her, she was certain, and his concern earlier had just been polite. She would hate for her last memory of William to be of his cold eyes and hard features. She wanted to remember him as they were before the nightmare began. She wanted to remember him as he was in Switzerland. How innocently happy she had been then? What dreams and hopes had unwittingly gripped her heart? But it did not matter anymore. None of it did.
By this time, Rick had awoken. He yawned and said, "Any news of Jane?"
Elizabeth cried inwardly. "No." She couldn't confide in him. It would only put him at risk.
"You know if Wickie had her, he would have contacted you by now."
"Yeah, probably..." Elizabeth said evasively.
"So, it means that he doesn't have her," said Rick. "Although, where would she be?"
"I don't know," Elizabeth mumbled.
"Are you alright?" Rick could see traces of sadness in her green eyes. "Something happened?"
"No," Elizabeth was quick to reply. "Nothing happened."
Just then, Charlie came into the room. "I saw William leaving. Was he here?"
Elizabeth glanced at Rick as she said, "Yes."
"So, that's it. What did he say?" Rick asked.
"Nothing. We didn't talk really." That much, Elizabeth determined, was true.
"Any news of Jane?" asked Rick of Charlie.
"No, we've been looking, but there's no sign of her," said Charlie.
Elizabeth stood up suddenly and slowly walked to the window. Charlie looked at Rick and said, "Don't worry, we'll find her. I promise. She'll be fine. I know it. Nothing bad will happen."
Elizabeth did not turn as tears fell down her cheeks. Nothing bad will happen? "If only I could believe that..." She said softly, "Rick, take me away from here, please?"
Rick exchanged glances with Charlie, then said, "Of course."
Charlie volunteered to stay at the hospital in case some news of Jane reached there. He bid Elizabeth to stay at home and rest and Elizabeth only smiled at his ignorance. If he only knew.
That night
Elizabeth limped slowly, smelling doom at every corner. She spotted William in the secluded area and she stopped. Her every instinct told her to leave immediately, but she didn't. She watched him from the distance. He glanced at his watch a number of times signifying his eagerness for her arrival. She was losing her nerve. Just watching him made her knees weak. How can I do this, she asked herself for the millionth time. But the mental picture of Jane edged her forward and she slowly continued her walk. Each step brought her closer to him and the imminent tragedy. She had abandoned the idea of explaining herself to him for it was futile and every passing moment weakened her resolve. He heard her footsteps and turned around.
"You're late." He informed her.
"I know."
He looked at her for a moment and said, "It's dark here, let's go someplace else."
I have to do it now. "I'm so sorry, William," she whispered, her green eyes brimming with tears. Even as she said those words, she took out the gun from her purse and aimed it at him.
"God, what're you doing?!" William exclaimed.
"Forgive me." Elizabeth put her finger on the trigger and closed her eyes.
Chapter 22
Elizabeth's outstretched arms did not waver as she pointed the gun straight at William's head. She was trembling slightly, a shiver running up and down her spine. As she opened her eyes and looked past the gun, she saw only a faint outline of William's figure. The haziness of her mind and the numbness of her heart had rendered her other senses powerless. Her lips quivered as she searched for the right words, but finding none, she just stood, motionless, not lowering the gun, but not pulling the trigger.
"So this is how it ends," William said finally, after a long pause.
William's soft voice snapped her mind back to reality. "I'm sorry...," she repeated again, speaking more to herself than to William. "I'm so sorry..."
William did not reply immediately. He stood there silent, as if waiting for his inevitable fate. But several seconds later, when she still did not shoot, a faint taunting smile appeared on his lips as he said, "So, what're you waiting for? Do us both a favor and just shoot."
Elizabeth knew he was right. There was nothing left to do but pull the trigger. There was no excuse not to. She knew that the gentle pressure on her finger would do the job, but that obstinate finger refused to do what her brain commanded. She braced herself and looked, for the final time, at William. This time her eyes locked with his. His dark eyes were cold and distant, as he was himself. But as she continued to hold his gaze, his eyes softened and she could discern a glimmer of warmth in their dark depths. He did not look away as she had expected him to do; rather, he continued to stare at her with a smoldering passion that she could not ignore. Elizabeth felt weak in her knees and her head started to spin. She dropped the gun at her side as she sank to the ground, only whispering, "I can't do it...I can't."
Overwhelmed by the trying events of the day and exhausted both physically and emotionally, Elizabeth began to cry. The tears flowed naturally as she sobbed on the dark street, her head tucked away in her hands, her entire body frame shivering with each subsequent sob. It felt extremely good to release her pent-up frustrations, her anger and her hopelessness. Unaware of her position and her surroundings, Elizabeth suddenly found herself being helped to her feet. Through the blur of tears, she vaguely saw the outline of William's face as she buried her head on his shoulders and cried. He put his strong, comforting arms around her and held her close. He did not attempt to interrupt her with questions or accusations allowing her instead the freedom to cry in peace. At length, Elizabeth's sobs were substituted by softer whimpers and after several minutes, she disengaged herself from him and stepped back. He did not move as Elizabeth took several steps backwards.
When she dared to look at him again, she whispered again, "I'm sorry..."
William watched her for a few moments, then said, "Now will you tell me what's going on?"
Elizabeth did not reply. She picked up the gun and put it in her purse. As she did, she glanced at him and said, "No. You don't need to get involved." With those words, she turned on her heels and began to run away from William, as fast as her injured legs would allow her to. But apparently, she wasn't fast enough because she soon found William close behind her. He blocked her way, forcing her to halt.
"You're not going anywhere," he informed her firmly.
Elizabeth looked at his determined face and said, "You don't want to be involved"
"I think I already am," said William. "You pulled a gun at me today. Don't you think I have a right to know what in the world is going on?"
Elizabeth dropped her gaze as she whispered, "You were the one who wanted nothing to do with me, remember?"
William looked away. "That was before you tried to kill me."
"But I didn't, did I? Doesn't that mean anything to you?" She felt tears well up in her eyes again.
He did not reply immediately. "Look, can we talk about this later? It's very dark here. You're coming with me."
He took her hand and would have led her away had she not freed herself from his grasp. "No, I'm not going anywhere with you." He looked at her, surprised. "Aren't you scared I'll shoot you?"
"No, I know you wouldn't," he said quietly.
"So you trust me now?" she pressed.
He looked away, unwilling to meet her gaze. "Let's go now..."
"No!" she exclaimed. "I don't need your help. I'll - I'll do this on my own. I won't force you to be with me for longer than you can stand." She began to walk away slowly.
William came up behind her. "Do you think it's unreasonable for me to wonder why you almost killed me tonight?"
She turned to face him. "No, but if you don't trust me, why would you believe anything I have to say?"
He paused and then, said, "Try me. I'm listening."
Elizabeth sighed as she hung her head. "Wickie has my sister and the only way I could get her back was if I...well, if I killed you." She turned away. "There you have it."
She began walking again, but William was close at her heels. "You have a sister?"
"Jane," nodded Elizabeth. "For the past several years, she was in the hospital and only recently, her memory returned. And now Wickie has her..." Her voice trailed off as her pain became evident.
"My god," said William softly.
"But I couldn't kill you," she said. "I just couldn't...and if he finds out...I don't even want to know what he'll do to Jane."
"Isn't there any other way?" said William. "Can't you go to the police?"
Elizabeth smirked. "Jane would be dead if I even thought about it. Don't you get it? My sister is going to die and there is nothing I can do about it. Nothing."
"I didn't know you were a quitter," said William quietly.
She glared at him. "There's nothing I can do."
"There's always something you can do," said William. "Who else knows about this?"
"Just you and me," she replied.
He nodded. "I see." He was silent for a minute and then began walking away. He looked back and said, "Are you coming or not?"
"Where?"
"To my house."
"To do what?" she said suspiciously.
"Save Jane, of course," William smiled. "You're not giving up, are you?"
Elizabeth managed to smile in return. "Hell, no."
The car was silent, eerily so. William stared straight at the road ahead, pointedly refraining from glancing at the woman at his side. Elizabeth stared out of the window, her thoughts dwelling on her sister, naturally; and for some part, on William. The silence that reigned the moment was unbroken except for the sounds of the ever-present New York traffic. The awkwardness within the car was undeniable but neither of its occupants had the courage to speak. At length, William glanced at Elizabeth, but he instantly looked away, almost scared of what to think or what to say. He cleared his throat. She looked at him expectantly. Not removing his eye from the road, he said,
"So is this why you did it?"
Elizabeth had no doubt as to what he was referring to. "Yes." She answered in a small voice.
"Why didn't you tell me before?" William's tone was almost accusing.
"Would that have changed anything?" Elizabeth countered, glancing at him.
William was silent for a moment. "I guess not."
They were silent once again. Elizabeth wished there was something, anything that she could do or say to heal the wounds that had done such immeasurable damage. But, in her mind, she knew that there was no healing this particular wound. Already, she had decided her course of action once Jane was rescued, if and when that happened. A stray tear rolled down her cheeks as she thought of her contemplated move. William noticed her brushing off the tear, but he remained silent. After all, he reasoned, what could he possibly say?
"What are we going to do?" asked Elizabeth finally.
William replied, "Save Jane...?"
"I know that," said Elizabeth with a touch of impatience. "But how?"
"You said that the only way to get her back was if you killed me?" William began. When she replied in the affirmative, he continued. "Then it seems obvious to me that the only way to get her back is for you to kill me."
"What?!" Elizabeth exclaimed.
"Will you let me finish?" William said. "You wouldn't really kill me. We'd fake the whole thing and once we had Wickie fooled and Jane out of there, we could give him what he deserves." Elizabeth didn't say a word. "So???"
"No way, William," she said finally. "I couldn't put you at risk like that. And besides, it probably won't work anyway. Wickie isn't that stupid. He would never fall for it. I think he's half expecting me to pull something like that. No, it's too dangerous."
"Well, do you have a better idea?" William challenged.
"No...but..." Elizabeth trailed off.
"Okay, then," said William triumphantly.
There was a long pause. Then, Elizabeth said, "Why are you doing this?"
"Doing what?" William said.
"Helping me," she replied. "After all I did..."
William did not respond for a long time. He wanted to tell her the truth, tell her that he still loved her and that he'd always loved her. He wanted to tell her that he understood why she'd done what she had, even if he'd been hurt. Above all, he wanted to tell her that he forgave her. But he told her none of those things. Instead, he said, "This isn't about you...or us. It's about an innocent woman, your sister."
Elizabeth bit her lips, aware of the sinking feeling in her stomach, fighting the biting disappointment she felt due to his answer. "Right," she whispered under her breath.
William did not say anything. They pulled into his driveway and got out of the car. The house looked very dark. William and Elizabeth slowly walked up to the door as waited as he found his keys. Once inside, William led the way to the living room, offering Elizabeth a chair. She accepted it quietly and looked around in wonder. From what little she'd seen, it was a very grand mansion. She felt keenly out of place. She didn't belong here, in the big mansion, with William. Not now, not ever. William offered her a drink, which she politely refused. He poured himself one and sat down on the couch.
"You've never been here before, have you?"
Elizabeth sighed audibly and said, "No."
William looked at her and said, "Well, now you're here."
"Now I'm here," she repeated numbly, refusing to look at him.
"Gina is coming home soon," William informed her. "I think she's going to bring Rick and Charlie with her. They're still looking for Jane...they don't know..."
Elizabeth looked up. "They don't have to know..."
William shook his head. "They're worried sick about her. Don't you think they have a right to know? And besides, they can help us with our plan. We're going to need all the help we can get."
"I guess you're right."
Silence fell in the room again, but they were saved from further awkwardness by the ringing of the bell. It proved to be the persons just mentioned. When the new arrivals entered the living room and saw Elizabeth there, they instantly knew that something was amiss. They demanded an explanation from both William and Elizabeth, but it was William who offered them any answers. As he repeated the situation, he watched Elizabeth who flinched with every word. When he was done, a hush came over the assembled party. Then, Rick approached Elizabeth and said,
"Oh, I'm so sorry."
She looked at him and said, "Thanks..."
"I had no idea...I mean, I did not believe it for a moment..."
"So, what are we going to do?!" exclaimed Charlie. "We can't just leave her there."
"There is one possibility...," William said and proceeded to tell them of his plan.
Gina gasped, "William, no! It's too dangerous. What if something happened to you?"
Elizabeth sighed as she exchanged glances with William. "That's what I'm afraid of."
"There is no other way, Gina," said William, speaking more to Elizabeth that to his sister.
"There has to be, we'll find one," said Gina desperately.
"Well, I'm open to any suggestions," said William. The silence of the room was glaring. He smiled faintly. "Then it's settled."
"I guess so...," muttered Charlie, not entirely comfortable with the idea himself.
Elizabeth sighed to herself. The misfortune of the present situation was eclipsed by her frustration at her own helplessness. Not being able to help her sister without depending on the kindness of near strangers was difficult enough, but when that stranger was William, her anguish trebled. Elizabeth would give the world to transport herself out of the present mess. She knew how much it pained William to even be near her. He was helping her solely out of pity and she couldn't stand to burden him as she was. But once this is over, I'll be out of his life - all of their lives - forever. And she was convinced that that was the best course of action.
"Um...I think I'd better go," said Elizabeth.
"No, you should stay here tonight," suggested Gina. "We have a spare bedroom."
"Thanks, Gina, but I really think I should go," said Elizabeth with a glance at William. "Wickie might have left some sort of message...."
"Oh," uttered Gina, but did not protest further.
"I'll take you," offered William.
"No, really, it's alright. I'll be fine," said Elizabeth.
"No," insisted William. "I'm coming."
Elizabeth sighed and said, "Okay, let's go, then."
She said her good-byes and promised to see them the next morning to discuss the details of their plan. William kissed Gina on her cheeks and followed Elizabeth outside. Elizabeth stood still, her eyes closed, inhaling the scent of the night. William watched her silhouette silently for a long moment. Then gently tapping her shoulders, he motioned her to get into the car. The moment was gone and Elizabeth reluctantly obeyed. The ride to Elizabeth's apartment was almost entirely silent. Elizabeth gave William the directions, but as they approached her apartment, the neighborhood became visibly less affluent and more dangerous. Elizabeth was embarrassed to subject him to such environs, but it couldn't be helped. She commanded him to stop as they reached her apartment.
"Here?" said William in surprise. They were in a dark part of the street, next to an alley.
"Um...yeah. I'll walk from here," said Elizabeth. She knew that the cops probably had her apartment building closed off after last night's incident and...Nardo. She got out of the car and muttered, "Thanks."
She began walking away, but William got out as well. "Now what?" she said.
"You didn't think I was going to let you go alone, did you?"
Elizabeth almost laughed. "You don't understand, do you? This is where I live. I think I can handle it better than you can."
William knew she was right, but he walked along with her nonetheless. Elizabeth shrugged and continued on. They were nearing a bend when Elizabeth became aware of footsteps behind them. She motioned William to be quiet and reached for her purse when suddenly two figures appeared from the darkness. One of them pointed a gun at them as the other one advanced forward, smiling.
"Why, Lisa," he said. "I've been looking all over for you."