Beginning, Section II, Next Section
Anne was grateful for the quiet. It gave her a chance to think about the past few days. She thought how much she enjoyed Maggie and Rick's company and how, if she had remained engaged to Frederick, they would have been good friends by now. She loved the Le Conte and felt that she could live there quite happily.
As she let her thoughts go, she soon drifted off to sleep. In her dreams, she was standing looking out over the valley. The sun was just peeking over the horizon. The air was chilly and she shivered and pulled her jacket tighter. Just then, she felt someone come up behind her and put their arms around her. She looked up into Frederick's dark eyes and warm smile. She snuggled up in the warmth of his body. Suddenly, there was a scream and they both ran towards the source. They reached a stream to find Louisa lying unconscious on the back. Frederick rushed over to her, lifted her body and began crying out, "Louisa, my love, don't leave me!" Louisa's eyes opened and, when she saw Frederick, she snuggled up into his embrace and replied, "I won't leave you Frederick. I love you." Frederick lowered his head and kissed her passionately. When they parted, Louisa looked and Anne and smiled a huge smile. "I'm so happy, Anne. And I owe it all to you. If you had married Frederick, we never could have been together." Anne looked at Frederick who smiled widely at her and said, "Yes thank you Anne." All Anne could do was stand and, with tears running down her face, watch the happy pair.
Just then, Charles hit a large bump in the road and Anne woke up.
"Sorry, Anne," said Charles. "I didn't see that one. We're almost home, just a few more miles."
Anne nodded and turned to look out of the window. The dream had been so real, so vivid. So much so that she could feel Frederick's arms around her. But the reality of Frederick and Louisa invaded her thoughts. Anne sighed and determined to give up all hope of ever being reunited with Frederick Wentworth.
She soon found however, that the warmth lasted only as long as it took them to tell her of all of their acquaintances, the parties they had been invited to and what the society columns had said about them. After all of that, things returned to the way they had always been.
One bit of information that caught Anne's ear was that William Walter was in town and he had been to see her father. Walter explained to Anne that William had sent a lovely fruit basket shortly after he and Elizabeth had settled into the house. William also had phoned and requested a meeting with Walter. At that meeting, William explained to Walter that the incident concerning the remarks about Walter's last recording had all been a mistake. The reporter had grossly misquoted him and William had tried to make the paper print a retraction but the paper stood firm. William also praised Walter so much that any hard feelings Walter had melted away during their first meeting.
Elizabeth also had plenty to say about William Walter. He had made a very big point of making sure that she understood what had happened and seemed to want her forgiveness almost as much as Walter's. He had also been very attentive to herself and after their first meeting, had sent her a large arrangement of roses.
"You should have seen them, Anne," said Penelope. "I've never seen such red roses in my life. And the stems must have been three feet long, at least."
"Yes," said Elizabeth, "they were very beautiful. Will has been here almost every day for the last week."
"Yes, yes," said Walter, "he has been a welcome addition to our company. And he's not unattractive. I must say that he's probably one of the better looking young men in Nashville."
"But not the best," said Penny with a shy glance at Walter.
"Wait until he visits, Anne. Then you will see how handsome he is."
"I have seen him."
The others all exclaimed. "What?!" "Where?!" "Impossible!" "It couldn't have been him!"
"Yes," said Anne calmly. "I saw him at the LeConte. He was staying there while we were there."
"Please, Anne," said Elizabeth, "I really don't think that William Walter would be caught dead in a place like the LeConte."
"It was him. He had been there a few days before we arrived and left the morning after we got there."
"It may have been someone who looked like him."
"No, It was him."
"Perhaps."
Anne sighed. It was no use arguing with her sister. Once Elizabeth had decided something, it was settled.
That evening, about 10:00 PM, they were all in the living room, watching television, when the doorbell rang.
"Who could that be?" said Walter. "At this time of night."
Penny offered to answer the door and returned with William Walter close behind.
Walter and Elizabeth enthusiastically welcomed him. Anne remained seated, watching the scene before her.
William apologized for the lateness of his visit, but was passing by and couldn't resist stopping in.
His apologies came to a halt, when he noticed Anne sitting on the couch.
"Ah," said Walter, "You have not met my daughter Anne. She has just arrived."
"Oh," said William, walking to Anne. "Anne and I are old friends."
Anne smiled and shook hands with him.
Seeing Walter and Elizabeth's questioning looks, William said, "We met while I was staying in Great Smokey Mountain National Park, at the LeConte."
He turned back to Anne. "I thought I heard something about an accident that happened shortly after I left. I hope it was not one of your friends."
"I'm afraid it was. One of the girls fell in the stream and hit her head on some rocks."
"Wow! I hope she's all right."
"She has what the doctor's believe is temporary paralysis, but when I left, she was doing pretty good. She's got a tough road ahead, I'm afraid."
Walter had been out of the conversation for too long. "What's that Anne? Who are you talking about? What accident?"
"Louisa Musgrove fell and hit her head. She's in the Gatlinburg hospital."
"Ah, Musgrove. Father breeds horses, I think."
William was looking at Anne with the same appreciation for her beauty as he did back on the trail. She caught him looking at her and blushed prettily and looked down.
Elizabeth, noticing the attention given to her sister, called William's attention away with, "And so how were your friends this evening, Will?"
Anne thought she detected a slight wince on William's face when her sister called him Will, but he turned with a smile and made conversation with the others.
It was almost midnight, when anyone noticed the time. William seemed reluctant to go, but an invitation for dinner the next day from Elizabeth seemed to cheer him. He shook hands with Walter, accepted a hug from Penny, and a kiss on the cheek from Elizabeth. Anne, who had opened the front door, was surprised when he stopped, told her how happy he was to finally meet her, and how he was looking forward to seeing her the next day. He gently kissed her on the cheek and left.
In her room, Anne thought about how nice it was to have a man look at her with such obvious admiration. William was very handsome, and his having made up with Walter seemed to clear the way for a very nice friendship. Such were the thoughts that played in her mind as she drifted off to sleep.
Anne filled her plate from the buffet and sat down. There were various papers lying on the table. She was looking through them when the headline on Music City News caught her attention.
Anne sat stunned for a few moments. Fiance? She quickly scanned the article. Apparently, a reporter had talked with a nurse who had told him of Frederick's visit's to Louisa and Louisa, herself, in her naïveté had spouted off to the nurse that she was sure it was "only a matter of time" before an announcement was made.
Tears welled up in her eyes, and Anne felt her blood turn cold. All thoughts of William Walter were driven from her head as she thought of Frederick and Louisa. Does he love her? she thought, He must or how could this story have happened. Surely Louisa wouldn't say those things if she didn't believe them.
Just then, Penny entered the room. "Good morning, Anne. Did you sleep well?"
Anne quickly put the paper down and picked up something else to read. She was spared the need to respond to Penny by Elizabeth's entrance into the dining room.
"Anne, there's a phone call for you. I think its Emelia."
"Thank you," Anne said and quickly exited the room. Before taking the call, she took a few moments to catch her breath. After she got herself under control, she picked up the phone.
"Hello?"
"Hello, Anne. It's Emelia."
"Hi! How are you?"
"Just great. Listen, How would you like to do a little shopping with me."
"I'd love too. Besides we need to catch up. Have I got something to tell you!"
"What?"
"I'm only going to mention the name William Walter. You'll have to wait for the rest."
"William Walter?! I'll pick you up at 12:00 sharp."
"See you then." As Anne hung up the phone, her father was coming down the hall.
"Good morning, Anne. Who was on the phone?"
"Emelia. I'm going shopping with her later today."
"Oh. Well, tell her I said hello and I'll try to stop by to see her sometime. That should keep her happy for a while."
Anne shook her head in wonder as her father continued down the hall. She walked back into the dining room. Elizabeth and Penny were sitting close together, looking over the society pages. Anne casually picked up the copy of Music City News, folded it under her arm and walked up to her room.
Once behind her door, she re-read the article about Frederick. There was a photograph of him entering the Gatlinburg Hospital with a large bouquet of roses. For a short moment, Anne remembered a time when he wanted to buy her flowers. She had refused roses saying they were too "high class" for her. She chose instead, a simple mixed bouquet of carnations, daisies and other "simple" flowers. Frederick agreed to the bouquet with one addition. He added one rose, telling her that she was his type of "high class."
Anne smiled at the memory, but it was soon interrupted by a knock at the door. She barely had a chance to shove the paper into a drawer before Emelia came into the room.
"Hi Anne. Ready to go?"
"Yes of course, just let me grab my purse."
If Emelia noticed her friend's flustered state, she said nothing about it. Truth be told, she had also seen the Music City News that morning and her main purpose in seeing Anne was to see how it affected her.
As soon as they were in Emelia's car and headed for the shopping district, Anne told Emelia all about William Walter's re-admittance into Walter's society.
"Well," said Emelia. "This is good news. One of the hottest record producers in country music courting Walter Elliot."
"I believe Mr. Walter also wishes to court Elizabeth Elliot."
"Elizabeth!" Emelia looked at Anne slyly. "My dear Anne, don't think for a moment that Elizabeth is the only attraction for William Walter."
Anne rolled her eyes. "Emelia, really. I've only met the man one time. I hardly think his affections could be captured that easily. Besides being the hottest record producer in Nashville, he's also the most eligible bachelor. He could have his choice of any of the Nashville beauties."
"Including yourself."
Anne laughed and shook her head. "I wouldn't put myself I that category."
Emelia just smiled but inside her head, the wheels were turning.
The Croft's were in town. George had doctor's appointments and some business to take care of so he and Sophy decided to spend a few weeks enjoying the Nashville society. Anne had seen them a couple of times, but they never mentioned anything about Frederick.
Another arrival in town greatly excited Walter and Elizabeth. It seemed that the widow of a former business associate of Walter's had just arrived in Nashville for the upcoming round of award shows. Victoria Dalrymple and her daughter, Carteret, were known to be staying at the most expensive hotel in town and quite in the media spotlight. Victoria's husband had promoted Walter and his wife when they were still touring, but a small misunderstanding had caused a rift in the relationship and the two sides had not spoken since. Walter in a sudden fit of subtlety sent a modest arrangement of flowers to mother and daughter with a note stating the wish to see them while they were in town. Victoria returned the compliment with an invitation to lunch for Walter and his daughters, of course, Penny was included.
After the lunch date, Anne gave William the particulars. "My father was so happy he could have burst." Anne laughed. "I'm afraid that I didn't see much that impressed me. Mrs. Dalrymple is a snob and Carteret isn't any better. This is one acquaintance I can do without."
"Anne, I know they may not be what you consider good company, but they will mix with the rich and famous. You're being known as their friends will allow you to do the same. Just think of the advantages."
Anne shook her head. "I can't think of one. I'm not interested in the rich and famous as you call them. Good company to me is friends who have something in common, people who truly like being together."
"I don't believe that for a second. You have ambitions just like the rest of us. Yours are more altruistic, but they're ambitions just the same."
"You know me so well, do you?" Anne questioned.
He leaned closer to her. "I know you, darling, I know you very well."
Elizabeth's calling them to dinner interrupted them. Anne was mildly alarmed at William presuming to know her so well, but she pushed it aside.
Through friends of Emelia's, Anne found that an old friend from school was living in Nashville. Jane Smith had been a sort of mentor of Anne's in high school. Jane was a year older than Anne and they had met on Anne's first day of her freshman year. For the next three years, they were the best of friends. Jane was there for Anne when her mother died. Jane was the one happy memory Anne had from that time in her life. After Jane graduated and went on to college, Anne lost track of her.
They were now reunited but Anne found that her friend had fallen on hard times. Jane's husband had died 2 years ago and shortly after that, she had been struck with a crippling disease and was living in a sort of nursing home. She had no family and her finances were all but non-existent. She relied on federal and state aid to pay for her medical expenses.
As soon as Anne heard of her friend being in Nashville, she went to see her. She was surprised at first at Jane's appearance, but after fifteen minutes of conversation, the Jane of her memories reappeared. They brought each other up to date on what had been happening in their lives.
"You're amazing, Jane," said Anne. "After all you've been through, you have such high spirits."
"Seeing you has really helped. I don't get many visitors."
"Do you get out at all?"
"Not really. But I have Nurse Rook there," she said, gesturing to a uniformed woman standing in the doorway, "she keeps me up to date on all the happenings in Nashville." Jane leaned in a little, "She has friends in high places, you know."
"Really," said Anne, turning to face the other woman. "And what sort of things do you hear?"
"Yes," said Jane, "What do you hear about my friend, Anne, here?"
"Well," said Nurse Rook, entering the room, "I hear that a certain eligible bachelor in Nashville thinks very highly of her."
Anne's eyes widened. "How did you hear that?"
"I have a friend who is a private nurse. She's working for the Wallis family. Mrs. Wallis is in the middle of a high risk pregnancy and required constant medical attention."
"Do you mean C. Wallis, that owns Wallis Recording Studios?" said Anne.
"The very one," said Nurse Rook. "He's in real tight with William Walter." She gave Anne a knowing glance. "Apparently C. Wallis believes it won't be too long before his friend turns in his most eligible bachelor card."
Jane and Nurse Rook both looked expectantly at Anne. Anne shook her head, "Not me. I haven't know the man that long."
"We'll see," said Jane. "We'll see."
Anne changed the subject and shortly after that left her friend.
On her way home, she stopped in the local grocery store to pick up something for Elizabeth. On her way to the check out, she passed by the display of magazines and newspapers. She glanced at them and would have continued on but the latest edition of Music City News caught her eye.
Before she could read the article, a voice startled her.
"Well, Anne, I guess you've seen the headlines."
She turned to find George Croft standing behind her. He motioned to the newspaper headline. "What do you think of that?"
Anne blinked a couple of times and replied, "I haven't read the article. What happened?'
"Believe it or not, that girl...oh what's her name...I never can remember..."
"Louisa," supplied Anne.
"Yes, that's it, Louisa. It would appear that Louisa has transferred her affections from Frederick to James Benwick."
"To James?! What...I don't understand, Louisa seemed so attached to Frederick." Anne thought for a moment. "How did it happen?"
"You know how everyone was concerned that she'd never walk again." Anne nodded. "Well, it seems that one evening, James came by to see her. Everyone else had gone home so it was just the two of them. Louisa asked James to get her some ice water and he told her to get up and get it herself. He said if she really wanted to walk again she'd just do it. I guess they fought about it for a little while and finally James told her she didn't have the guts to try and she yelled back that she did, threw the covers off and climbed out of bed. She only made it a few steps, but it was enough to prove that she could walk. She was so happy about walking that she forgot about being angry with him and the rest is history."
Anne shook her head in disbelief. "Incredible. I never would have put Louisa and James together."
"No, me either. James is a nice enough guy but he's a little on the sensitive side."
"And how is Frederick, I mean, is he very upset."
"Not at all. Sophy talked to him last night and he seemed genuinely happy for them. Thinks it won't be too long before they'll get married."
"Really," said Anne quietly.
"Yep. If I didn't know any better, I'd say that Frederick never really cared for...oh...what's her name again?"
"Louisa."
"That's right. Don't know why I can't remember her name." They had reached the cashier by now. "Frederick told Sophy that he'd be in Nashville by the weekend. Guess he's back to being an eligible bachelor. The girls will be chasing him again."
They parted outside the store and Anne drove home in silent wonder. Louisa and James?! Was Frederick really as unaffected by all this as George let on? And what would he do next?
The following Saturday, Anne found herself tagging along behind Elizabeth and Penny on a shopping trip. They had been shopping all morning when a sudden rain shower forced them into a up scale coffee bar. Inside, they met William Walter. He offered his services in finding them a cab and in an instant, he was gone. They decided to have a cup of cappuccino while they waited.
William returned in a few minutes with the news the Mrs. Dalrymple and her daughter would be happy to give them a ride, however there was only room for two. Of course, Elizabeth would go and a short discussion decided that Penny would be the second. William agreed to find a cab for Anne and he stepped out once more. Mrs. Dalrymple's driver would come and get them when it was time.
While Elizabeth and Penny talked about their shopping coups, Anne watched the activity outside the window. Her gaze fell on a tall figure walking across the street. As the man drew closer, Anne recognized him. Frederick Wentworth! He was wearing jeans and a rain jacket and trying to be inconspicuous, but Anne recognized him anyway. She didn't realize that she had gone pale until she heard Penny saying, "Anne, are you all right?"
She stood shakily. "I'm fine. I think I'll just get a drink of water." She walked towards the counter but before she could get to it, she found herself face to face with Frederick.
"Anne!" he exclaimed, a little louder than he expected. A murmur went through the crowd as people began to recognize him.
"Hello, Frederick. How are you?"
"Fine, fine. How are you?" He noticed Elizabeth and Penelope watching them. Elizabeth glared in his direction then turned the other way.
"I'm well." Watching his face, Anne could guess the kind of reception he had received from her sister. "So you've made it to Nashville."
He turned his attention back to her. "Yes. Sophy twisted my arm and here I am. Besides, there's always something for an out of work singer to do in Nashville."
"Out of work!" Anne exclaimed with a laugh. "The only reason Frederick Wentworth is out of work is because he chooses to be. Nashville isn't ready to let you retire yet."
He smiled in return. Before he could say anything, the door opened and a man in a chauffeur's uniform entered.
"Miss Elliot's party!" Elizabeth made a grand deal of calling the driver's attention to herself and Penny. The man gestured for them to follow him. As they exited the shop, Frederick turned to Anne. "Aren't you going with them?"
"No, there is only room for Elizabeth and Penny. If I can't get a cab, I'll walk."
"Walk! My car's just a block or so from here. If you don't mind waiting I'll get it and take you home."
Anne tried not to smile too widely or blush too deeply. Before she could answer, however, William appeared next to her.
"Anne, darling, the rain has finally stopped. If you're ready we can walk back to Walter's."
Anne tore her eyes from Frederick to look at him. "Oh...all right." She looked up at Frederick. "It was nice to see you again, Frederick."
"You too, Anne. Maybe we'll see each other again." Frederick smiled slightly.
William put his arm around Anne possessively and guided her out of the shop.
Frederick moved to the window and watched them walk away. William was smiling and talking to Anne, but Frederick couldn't see her face to see how she was reacting to him.
As he watched, he realized that people in the shop were talking about Anne and William.
"Don't they make a gorgeous couple."
"Oh yes. Everyone in town is talking about them. People say that William Walter won't be a bachelor much longer. He spends half his time at Walter Elliot's."
"He's such a hunk, and she's got a natural beauty. You like her right away. Not like that sister of hers. Elizabeth's pretty but heaven forbid if you have to talk to her." The two women giggled and began to talk of other things.
Frederick would have joined in their amusement but he was still stuck on the idea of Anne and William being a couple. He hadn't been in town long enough to catch up on Nashville gossip. Does everyone consider them an item? Are they? Frederick walked out of the shop and headed for his car.
"Anne," exclaimed Elizabeth. "Would you stop stalking about. People will stare."
Anne nodded and looked down at the twisted program in her hands. She carefully smoothed it out and tried to look like she was reading it.
Victoria Dalrymple and her daughter Cartaret proudly present Canciones de mi Padre an evening of music from south of the boarder.
During a vacation, Mrs. Dalrymple had discovered a small Mexican band. Actually, Anne believed that it was Cartaret who had discovered the handsome lead singer and his group but Victoria seemed more than happy to promote the band.
Unlike her father, Anne was looking forward to the program. Anne loved music of all sorts and was always happy to expand her circle. Her agitation, however, was not due to the concert. She had heard from Sophy Croft that Frederick was planning on attending. Anne's eyes once again looked toward the doorway. A large group of people entered. Anne didn't know any of them and was just about to turn away when the sight of Frederick stopped her. He looked incredibly handsome in his tuxedo. He smiled and nodded at people who greeted him. Fortunately, entrance to the concert was limited so he didn't have to worry about being besieged by fans. He was about to walk into the auditorium, when Anne stepped into his pathway.
"Good evening, Frederick," she said shyly.
He seemed surprised to see her but surprise quickly turned into pleasure. "Good evening, Anne. How are you?"
"Very well, thanks." She paused for a moment. "Are you here for the Dalrymples' concert?" Smooth, Anne, real smooth.
"You mean this isn't the weekly meeting of The Good Ole Boys of Nashville?" he returned with a slight smile.
She grinned in return. Just then, Frederick seemed to catch sight of something over her shoulder. Actually, it was someone. Walter, Elizabeth, and Penny were standing over to one side of the foyer. Anne turned slightly to see how they would react to Frederick. Elizabeth whispered something in her father's ear. Walter looked confused, but after a moment, he came forward and greeted Frederick. Elizabeth followed her father's example. Frederick received their greetings and then Walter and Elizabeth moved away to talk to some other people.
Frederick turned back to Anne. She was clearly surprised by her father and sister's action.
"I haven't had a chance to talk to you much since Louisa's accident. I hope you've recovered."
"Me?" she said.
"You were so together that day. I guess I just figured that you waited until later to let go or fall apart or whatever women do after a crisis."
She smiled. "I'm fine. A good night's sleep and assurances of Louisa's recovery were all I needed."
He laughed slightly. "Yes, well, from the last report I had from James, Louisa is making steady progress."
"I'm glad to hear it," said Anne. She paused a moment before saying hesitantly, "I was certainly surprised at the two of them getting together."
"As was I. Louisa's a nice girl but James...well...he's..." he sighed. "They're just such different personality types."
"Yes. I would never have put them together."
"Before this James was like a man without a purpose. Ever since Phoebe died, Rick and I have watched James closely. There were actually times we thought he might attempt suicide. James is so down to earth, so..."
"...sensitive," finished Anne.
And Louisa's sort of...well...flighty."
Anne stifled a giggle. "She is rather high spirited."
Frederick smiled. "To say the least. I wish them all the best."
"So do I."
They stood for a few moments without speaking. Anne tried to think desperately of something to say but her mind was racing. Finally she said, "Did you stay long in Gatlinburg?"
"Until we were assured of Louisa's recovery. I spent a lot of times with James and the Harvilles." He paused for a moment. "It was all my fault. Louisa wouldn't have been hurt if I had not encouraged her behavior."
Anne stepped slightly closer to him and laid a hand on his arm. "Frederick, it was not your fault. Louisa is an adult. She knew better than to play around on those wet rocks."
He smiled down at her. "So you said at the LeConte." He put his hand over hers. "Anne, I..."
Before he could continue, the volume of noise in the room increased. They stepped away from each other as Victoria Dalrymple and her daughter made their entrance. The ladies walked in smiling and greeting people.
Anne was sorry for the interruption. She was even more sorry when she realized that Frederick had moved away from her, to the other side of the room. She tried to make her way over to him, but was stopped by William Walter.
"Anne, darling. I'm sorry I'm late." He kissed her on the cheek. "Your father has already gone in. Shall we?" He offered her his arm.
With a last look at Frederick, she took William's arm and entered the auditorium.
Por un amor (For a love)
Me desvelo y vivo apasionada;( I can't sleep and I live full of passion)
Tengo un amor (I have a love)
Que en mi vida dejo para siempre amargo dolor (That left forever in my life a bitter pain)Pobre de mi (Poor me)
Esta vida mejor que se acabe (This life would be better if it would end)
No es para mi (It's not for me)
Anyone in the room could have looked at Frederick and thought he was enjoying the music. Anne, however, after glancing his way a few times could tell he was not enjoying the concert. The question was why.
She didn't have long to contemplate it, because William sensing that her attention was not directed towards him, leaned close and whispered, "I can't understand a word. Do you know what they're singing?"
Anne smiled weekly and quietly whispered the translation.
Pobre de mi -ay corazon (Poor me - Ay my heart)
Pobre de mi -no sufras mas (Poor me - don't suffer any more)
Cuanto sufre mi pecho (How much my suffering in my breast)
Que late tan solo por ti (That throbs so alone for you)Por un amor (For a love)
He llorado gotitas de sangre del corazon, (I have cried lttle drops of blood from my heart)
Me has dejado conel alma herida (You have left me with a wounded soul)
Sin compasion (With out compassion)(Gilberto Parra)
The song ended and the audience applauded. After a few more songs, the band took a break. People stood and milled around some. William was claimed to escort Elizabeth, Penny and Cartaret out to get some refreshments.
Anne breathed a quick prayer of thanks for the break from William. He was becoming increasingly demanding of her attention as well as her hands. She couldn't stand the way he tended to "hang" on her. Her reverie was broken when she heard her father and Victoria Dalrymple talking.
"Very handsome," said Victoria. "And quite talented."
Anne turned to see them looking in Frederick's direction.
"Yes," said Walter. "He's made quite a name for himself. His sister and her husband are business acquaintances of mine. Real estate, you know."
Anne shook her head slightly at her father's pretentiousness. Frederick caught her eye and smiled slightly. When she returned his smile, he approached her.
"Are you enjoying the music?" he asked.
"Oh yes. They're very good."
"Yes. I didn't think I'd be able to follow the lyrics but my high school Spanish has come back to me enough to provide the general meaning if not the actual translation."
"If you like," Anne said hesitantly. "I would be happy to translate for you." She blushed a little as she continued. "I took Spanish all through college."
"I know," he replied.
She blushed again remembering a time when she tried to improve his grasp of the language.
He seemed about to sit next to her, when William appeared.
"Anne, honey. Could you come and explain to Cartaret what that last song was about. I can't express it as well as you can."
Anne looked from William to Frederick and back. "I'll be there in a moment, William."
"Don't take to long, dear," said William with a parting glare at Frederick.
When Anne turned back to Frederick, gone was the smile and friendliness that they had just been sharing. He seemed agitated.
"If you'll just excuse me for a few minutes..." she began.
"Actually, I have to be going."
"Going?! But the concert isn't over yet."
"Yes, well, I guess I'm not really that interested in Spanish music after all." He looked at her for a second. "I guess I'll see you around."
He started to walk away. She stood up and caught up to him.
"But the next set of songs are all love songs."
"So."
"They're very beautiful. Don't you think you could stay to hear them?"
He was about to say yes, when he caught sight of William heading their way. He looked back at Anne. "No, I can't stay. There's no reason for me to stay. Good night."
Anne watched him walk out of the auditorium.
William reached her. "Anne, we've been waiting for you. It's time for the concert to begin again. You'll have to tell Cartaret what the songs mean later."
Anne just nodded her head and allowed him to lead her back to their seats.
The auditorium darkened and the band began to play again.
Hay Unos OjosHay unos ojos que si me miran (There are some eyes which if they look at me)
Hacen que mi alma tiemble de amor (Make my soul tremble with love)
Son unos ojos tan primorosos (There are some eyes so exquisite
Ojos mas lindos no he visto yo (Prettier eyes I have never seen)Ay! quien pudiera mirarse en ellos (Ay! Who could look at himself in them)
Ay! Quien pudiera besarlos mas (Ay! Who could kiss them more)
Gozando siempre de sus destellos (Enjoying always their sparkle)
Y no olvidarlos nunca jamas (And never ever forgetting them)Y todos dicen que no te quiero (And everyone says that I don't love you)
Que no te adoro confrenesi (That I don't adore you with a frenzy)
Y yo les digo que mienten, mienten (And I tell them that they lie, they lie)
Que hasta la vida daria por ti (That I would even give my life for you.)(Ruben Fuentes)
Anne was grateful that the lights were low. Her eyes were on the verge of overflowing with tears. Why did Frederick leave so suddenly? Had she said something wrong?
William stirred in his seat next to her.
A thought suddenly struck her. Could Frederick actually be jealous of William? The thought almost caused her to burst out laughing. But as she recalled how possessive William had been, especially in front of Frederick her heart sunk. How can I let Frederick know I'm not in love with William? When will I see him again?
Once again, tears filled Anne's eyes. She had to see Frederick. She just had to.
The next morning during breakfast, Walter received a phone call. When he returned to the table, he was practically bursting.
"Well," he said as he resumed his place at the table. "And who do you think that was?"
Elizabeth knew her father well enough to know that something extraordinary had happened.
"Who was on the phone, father," asked Elizabeth.
"Yes, don't keep us in suspense," said Penny.
Walter sat up straight and smiled widely. "That was Victoria Dalrymple. She has invited us for lunch today."
Elizabeth and Penny both squealed with delight.
Walter turned to Anne to see her reaction. "Well, Anne, what do you think?"
Anne was absently pushing food around on her plate. "Hmm, I'm sorry father, I didn't hear what you said?"
Walter sighed impatiently. "We are invited to the Dalrymples' for lunch."
"Today?"
"Yes, of course today."
"I'm sorry. I won't be able to attend."
The smile fled Walter's face. "What do you mean you won't be able to attend?"
"I have a previous engagement."
Walter sat silently stewing for a few minutes.
Penny, sensing that an explosion was about to occur, discreetly left the room.
Anne continued eating until Walter finally spoke. His voice was tight, "And just what is so important that you would insult the Dalrymples by refusing their invitation?"
"I have promised to have lunch with an old friend, Jane Smith."
"Jane Smith?! Couldn't you call and postpone?
"No. This is the only time this week that we are both free at the same time. Starting tomorrow, she has treatments every day for a week."
"Treatments!"
"Yes, father, she is in a care facility undergoing medical treatments."
Walter's voice was brimming with anger. "Am I to understand that you would snub Victoria Dalrymple and her daughter to visit some sick person." Before Anne could answer, he continued, "I can't believe that you would turn down an invitation to spend the afternoon with someone as important as the Dalrymples in order to visit some sick woman. Really, Anne, I think you need to re-examine your priorities. Now once and for all, are you going with us to the Dalrymples."
Anne looked her father directly in the eyes. "No, father, I am not. I have already promised to spend the day with Jane Smith. She is a good friend and not the only woman in Nashville who has no fame or fortune to live on."
At this point, Elizabeth threw down her napkin, pushed her chair back from the table and left the room with a huff.
Walter sat staring at his daughter. Anne calmly put her fork down, pushed her chair back and walked out into the hall.
Once out of sight of her father, Anne leaned against the wall, shaking. She had never really stood up to her father and, even though, it wasn't easy, she sort of liked the feeling.
As soon as she could, she climbed the stairs to her room. She quickly changed her clothes and headed out the door, avoiding her father and Elizabeth.
As Anne drove, she tried to think of some way she would be able to see Frederick. She could stop by the Crofts'. Anne knew Frederick was staying with them, but there was no guarantee that he'd be there. She was still racking her brain when she pulled into the parking lot of the Nashville Extended Care Facility and parked her car.
Even though Anne had promised to have lunch with Jane, Jane seemed surprised to see her.
"I was sure that after the concert last night you'd have better things to do than spend time with me."
Anne was puzzled. "But I promised to have lunch with you."
"I know, but sometimes things happen that change our plans."
"What could possibly have happened that would prevent us from having lunch?"
Jane smiled playfully. "Oh, I just thought that a certain someone might have been at the concert last night."
Anne blushed. "I can't imagine who you mean."
"Come on Anne. Anyone can tell that something happened last night."
Anne blushed even deeper. "Well..."
"I knew it! It's written all over your face."
Anne smiled as she thought of Frederick. To all appearances, he had been jealous over William. It felt good knowing that he might still care.
In the meantime, Jane was gushing, "Well, he is quite handsome and very rich. He's not the most perfect man in the world I suppose, but you should be fairly happy with him. I'd say being the wife of one of the hottest men in Nashville would make most men happy. Just think, my friend Anne becoming Mrs. William Walter."
Anne hadn't really been listening to Jane as she rambled, but the mention of "Mrs. William Walter," caught Anne's attention immediately.
"William Walter!"
"Yes. Wasn't he at the concert?"
"Well, yes, but..." Anne broke off. Of course she's talking about William. thought Anne. She doesn't even know about Frederick.
Jane looked embarrassed. "I'm sorry. Maybe I've jumped the gun, but I assumed it was just a matter of time before you two announced your engagement."
"Engagement!" Anne gasped.
"Yes, all of Nashville is talking about you two. Hearts are breaking all over town."
Anne looked incredulously at her friend. "You've got to be kidding."
"I'm perfectly serious."
Anne shook her head. "No way. I'm not in love with William."
Jane turned serious. "Anne, all joking aside, if William Walter proposed to you, would you accept?"
"No way," Anne repeated. I don't know where you've gotten you're information but you've been misinformed."
Jane picked up the bedside phone. "Rook, Could you come in here?"
A few minutes later, Nurse Rook entered the room.
"Anne," said Jane, "Tell Rook what you just told me."
Anne repeated her position on marrying William Walter.
Nurse Rook looked from Anne to Jane, then sat down on the edge of the bed.
"Forgive us, Anne," said Jane. "We had it on pretty good authority, or so we thought, that you and Mr. Walter were as good as engaged."
"From who?" begged Anne.
Jane looked at Nurse Rook who spoke. "Well, remember my friend who's caring for C Wallis' wife?" Anne nodded. "She heard from Mrs. Wallis who heard from her husband, who heard from William Walter, that an engagement was on the way."
Anne stared in surprise. "I don't believe it." She thought for a few minutes. "Actually, William has been very attentive, almost smothering at times. But marriage?"
"So you're not going to marry William Walter?" asked Nurse Rook.
"No!" said Anne emphatically.
Jane and Nurse Rook shared a relieved look.
Anne eyed them suspiciously. "What do you two know?"
Again the two shared a look. Jane nodded her head and Nurse Rook turned to Anne. "Well, besides the talk of your engagement, Mrs. Wallis said that, after your marriage, William Walter will planned to get your father to sign Kellynch Farm over to him."
"What would he want with our farm."
"To sell it."
"But why, he's rich."
Nurse Rook shook her head. "He's deep in debt."
Jane nodded her head. "That's not all, Anne."
"There's more!"
"Yes. I should have told you this sooner but I thought... Well, it doesn't matter what I thought, I need to tell you the truth now."
Anne felt sick to her stomach. "I'm not sure I want to hear this."
Jane took a deep breath. "I knew William Walter many years ago, before he and your father quarreled. William was a good friend of my husband Charles."
Anne was shocked.
Jane continued, "Charles and William were inseparable. After our marriage, the three of us were like the three musketeers. It wasn't until after my husband died that I found out that William had somehow gained financial control over Charles." Jane shook her head sadly. "Charles was such a trusting soul. He never would have believed that William would harm him in any way." She sighed. "But when all was said and done, Everything was in William's name and I was left with next to nothing."
Anne sat stunned, unable to speak. Finally, is a small voice she asked, "Why didn't you tell me about this sooner?"
"I didn't find out about the money until yesterday and as for my husband, well, I thought you were in love with him, Anne. I didn't want to hurt you. I was hoping he had changed or that he would under your influence." Jane realized she was babbling and stopped. "I'm sorry Anne. I truly am."
Anne said nothing.
"I can provide documents about his dealings with my husband..." Jane began, but Anne waved her off.
"I believe you, Jane. You don't have to prove anything to me. I'm just so astonished. I don't know what to say." She stood up and walked around the room. "Why me? Why not Elizabeth?"
"Anne," said Jane softly. "No offense to your sister, but even William Walter can see true beauty."
Anne smiled appreciatively at her friend. "Thanks. The question is what do I do now?"
She was able to slip into the house and up to her room without seeing anyone. All she wanted was to be alone. She lay down on the bed and was quickly asleep.
About an hour later, she awoke with a start. The room was a bit darker than when she had first come in. She turned on the bedside lamp on and looked at the clock. 5:45! Her father wanted dinner promptly at 6:00 pm. Anne straightened her clothes and her hair and cautiously made her way down to dinner.
Fortunately for Anne, Walter had so enjoyed his afternoon, that he held no ill humor towards her. He and Elizabeth and Penny laughed and talked about "dear Cartaret" and "Vicki this" and "Vicki that" and "then Cartaret said this" and "wasn't it so funny." All Anne had to do was look slightly interested.
After dinner, they sat in the living room watching television. It was close to 10:30 when the doorbell rang. No one made a move to answer it, so Anne pulled herself out of her chair and walked to the door. She had a good idea of who it was.
Sure enough, when she opened the door, William Walter stood on the front porch.
"Anne, darling," he said with a smile. "You look wonderful." He put his arm around her and kissed her on the cheek. "How are you?"
"Fine, thanks, William," she replied coolly and began walking towards the living room.
He held her back. "I hope we can have a little time to ourselves this evening."
Before Anne could answer, Walter called from the living room.
"Anne, who's there?"
Saved by the father, she thought.
Upon seeing who their guest was, the others quickly turned their attention towards him.
Anne was able to slip out of the room during the recap of the lunch with the Dalrymples. She'd had enough of them and she didn't trust herself to be in the same room with William. She decided to grab a quick shower and then go to bed.
The next day dawned bright over Nashville. Anne woke early. She wanted to grab a quick breakfast and then go over to Emelia's. She had decided to tell Emelia everything.
She was on her way out the door, when a car pulled up that looked familiar. In a moment, Charles and Mary were climbing out.
"Anne! Hello!" cried Mary. "We've come to Nashville."
"What a silly thing to say, Mary," said Charles. "She can see where we are."
Anne greeted them both affectionately and led them into the dining room.
"When did you all get here?"
"Last night," answered Charles as he filled a plate.
"Yes," said Mary. "I wanted to call and let you know that we were here but Charles said not to disturb you."
They had been chatting for awhile, when Walter and Elizabeth came in.
"Mary," said Elizabeth with feigned delight. "What are you doing here?"
"We came with Mrs. Musgrove and Henrietta."
"Yes," said Charles. "They're here to do scouting."
"Scouting?" said Anne with a laugh.
"He means shopping," said Mary. "For the weddings."
"Weddings?" asked Walter.
Mary nodded her head. "Louisa and Henrietta are having a double wedding. What do you think of that Anne?"
"I think it's a lovely idea."
"Mary, dear," said Elizabeth. "Where are you staying?"
"Oh," answered Mary with glee. "We're staying at the Nashville Grande."
"The Grande!" exclaimed Walter. "That's one of the best hotels in town."
Elizabeth, relieved that she was not expected to host her sister and family, asked, "How did you get in?"
"Richard Harville has some connections in the industry, so he set it up for us," said Charles. He turned to Anne, "You remember Richard, don't you Anne. He'll be coming to Nashville in a day or so. Has some business, he said."
"Lovely. I'd like to see him again."
The group sat talking for a couple of hours. When Mary and Charles began to leave, they offered an invitation for the others to join them at the hotel for lunch. Anne agreed, anxious to see Mrs. Musgrove and her daughter, but the others made their excuses.
Anne put off seeing Emelia until the next day. She was actually a little relieved. She wasn't sure how Emelia would take William Walter's deceitfulness. Anne believed that Emelia had high hopes for him.
Mrs. Musgrove and Henrietta were thrilled to see Anne walk in with Charles and Mary. They were all laughing and talking when the phone rang. Charles answered it and after fighting the noise of the women, he practically yelled into the receiver, "We'll meet you downstairs in 15 minutes."
This caught the ladies attention. When he hung up they were all looking at with questioningly.
"That was Richard Harville. He's here and will be joining us for lunch."
Pleasure over the addition to their party brought on a whole new wave of conversation. At the right time, Charles herded them out the door, into the elevator and into the lobby.
Anne was talking with Henrietta, trying not to laugh at Henrietta's idea of the "perfect" wedding when she saw Richard Harville. She was about to greet him, when she noticed his companion.
Frederick!!
Anne was slightly thrown at the sight of Frederick standing next to Richard Harville, but she recovered her wits and greeted them both.
Richard suggested they walk to a little outdoor restaurant a couple of blocks from the hotel. They all agreed and asked him to lead the way. In no time at all, the group was seated around a table, looking at menus. The table was comfortable for six, so the seven of them were constantly bumping each other. Anne didn't know how but she had wound up seated next to Frederick. The first time their hands bumped, Anne felt like she jumped through the ceiling. She wanted to see how he reacted, but didn't have the nerve to look at him.
The conversation centered mostly on the weddings. Anne noticed that whenever James and Louisa were mentioned, Richard seemed uncomfortable. She wondered if he was against the match.
"Oh," exclaimed Mary suddenly. "Elizabeth wanted me to make sure that I invited all of you to her party on Saturday. She's giving it in honor of Cartaret Dalyrmple's engagement."
Mrs. Musgrove and Henrietta both responded that they'd be delighted to attend.
Mary turned to Richard and Frederick. "And you'll both be there, won't you?" Mary looked especially at Frederick. "Elizabeth made me especially promise to invite you and told me not to take no for an answer."
Frederick smiled and said that he wouldn't miss it. Mary was ecstatic, but Anne could tell that Frederick was not pleased at the prospect of spending the evening at a party hosted by Elizabeth Elliott.
"It's going to be at the Plaza Garden. It should be a very fancy affair," said Mary dreamily. "Everyone who's anyone will be there."
Charles moaned. "Great! A whole evening in a tux, talking to people I can't stand. I think I'll be sick that day." He leaned towards Anne who was sitting next to him. "What about you Anne? Don't you feel a fever coming on?"
Anne laughed. "Believe me Charles, if it were up to me, I'd be as far away from the Plaza as I could. But I have a responsibility to my family."
She turned from Charles to find Frederick looking at her. When the others began talking about the party, he said quietly, "Maybe you haven't been in Nashville society long enough to appreciate the benefits of a high class party."
She looked directly into his eyes and responded, "Some people place more importance on 'fancy parties' and find simple entertainment beneath them. I am not one of them. I am not high class."
He smiled a genuine smile. "No, you never were, were you?"
She smiled back. But before she could respond, Mary interrupted them.
"Anne! There's William Walter across the street. And that looks like Penny Clay with him."
Without thinking, Anne said, "It couldn't be. William is out of town until tomorrow." As soon as the words were out of her mouth, Anne wished them unsaid. She could feel Frederick's eyes on her. She looked up at him.
"Please, Anne," retorted Mary. "I think I can recognize the best producer in Nashville and my sister's best friend. Take a look.
Anne tore her eyes from Frederick's to look where Mary was pointing. Indeed, William and Penny were walking down the street together, talking very animatedly.
"Well," said Anne, trying to sound nonchalant. "I guess I misunderstood. I wasn't really listening when he talked about going away." She turned back to Frederick only to find that he had turned his attention towards Richard.
Shortly, after that, Richard and Frederick said their good-byes and left.
All the way back home, Anne mentally kicked herself. Frederick was already jealous of William and she had spoken as though she knew exactly where he was all the time. When will I ever learn?
Anne tried to phone Emelia that evening but kept getting the answering machine. She had promised Mary and Henrietta to spend the next day shopping with them, so she knew she wouldn't get to talk to Emelia until Saturday. If she could just avoid William until then.
After dressing, she made her way downstairs to breakfast. Elizabeth and Penny were talking and giggling about the party. William had not gotten up yet.
Elizabeth noticed Anne only long enough to inquire whether Mary had issued the party invitation to the others. Anne assured her that the invitation had been issued and she felt sure that they would be in attendance.
Elizabeth turned to Penny. "We're sure to make the society pages this time, Penny. With Cartaret's engagement AND Frederick Wentworth there, the papers will certainly take notice." She glanced at Anne briefly and continued, "And I wouldn't mind getting to know the eligible Mr. Wentworth a little better."
Anne tried not to choke on her eggs. Elizabeth interested in Frederick! What a laugh! Especially after the way Elizabeth had treated him. Anne finished her breakfast and escaped from the house as quickly as she could.
She was scheduled to pick Mary and Henrietta up at 10:30 am. Knowing that she'd be welcome early, she headed for the hotel. When she arrived, she was surprised to find that Mary and Henrietta had discovered a tuxedo shop near the hotel and had drug poor Charles with them to "get a man's opinion." Mrs. Musgrove said they'd be back shortly and invited Anne to help herself to some tea.
Shortly after Anne's arrival, there was a knock on the door.
"Anne, dear," asked Mrs. Musgrove. "Would you mind getting that?"
"Of course." Anne opened the door and found herself face to face with Frederick.
He was just as surprised as Anne and stood for what seemed like several minutes without saying a word.
"Frederick," exclaimed Sophy Croft, who had come with her brother, "where are your manners?" Sophy turned to Anne. "Good morning, Anne. It's so nice to see you."
Anne recovered the use of her tongue and greeted Sophy. She stepped back to let them in. She had not noticed it but Richard Harville was with them.
Mrs. Musgrove was very pleased to see the visitors and quickly supplied them all with tea, coffee and anything else she could. They sat chatting for a few minutes. Mrs. Musgrove and Sophy carried the majority of the conversation with the others contributing very little. Frederick and Anne were taking turns not looking at each other and Richard seemed pre-occupied.
Finally, Frederick stood up and said, "Well, Richard, I guess I should take care of your business." He turned to Mrs. Musgrove and asked if he might use the telephone.
He seated himself at the desk, pulled out the telephone book and began searching through it. Richard watched him for a moment then stood and walked over to one of the windows.
Anne listened to Sophy and Mrs. Musgrove discussing the upcoming weddings. She felt like she should join in but she just couldn't muster the energy. She desperately wanted to be talking to Frederick, but he had his nose buried in the telephone book and was making notes on a pad of paper.
She glanced around at Richard just about the same time he looked over at her. He smiled hesitantly and she stood and joined him at the window. Without a word, he pulled out a small jeweler's box and offered it to Anne. She took it and opened it. There nestled in dark blue velvet was a beautifully cut marquis diamond. Anne looked up at Richard.
"James bought that for Phoebe. It was to be her engagement ring." He paused. Anne handed the box back to him. He took it and looked at the stone. "Now he wants me to have it set for Louisa." He shook his head sadly. "I just can't bring myself to do it. So he's going to take care of it." He nodded his head towards Frederick.
"Sometimes it's hard to remember that she's gone. They were so in love. I know I should be happy for James, moving on and all, but...I guess...I never expected him to find someone else. It hasn't been that long. If the situation had been reversed...if Phoebe was the one still here. I don't think she would have forgotten him so quickly."
"No," replied Anne, in a low feeling voice. "That, I can easily believe."
"She thought he hung the moon, she would have done any thing for him. She lived for him."
"No woman who truly loved a man could forget him."
He smiled. "Don't tell me you think that women are the only ones who hold on to lost loves."
She returned his smile. "I didn't mean to imply that we are the only ones, just that we seem to hold onto lost love much longer that men do."
He shook his head sadly. "I can't agree."
Here Frederick's slamming down the phone interrupted them. They both jumped.
"Frederick," asked Richard, "is everything ok."
Frederick seemed embarrassed. "Sorry," he mumbled sheepishly.
"Have you found a jeweler?"
"Ah...no...not yet. A few more calls." Frederick fumbled with the pen and paper.
"Don't rush on my account," said Richard. "I'm well occupied."
Richard turned back to Anne. "A man can nurse a broken heart as long as a woman. Perhaps longer."
"He may," she agreed, "but because men are taught not to show their feelings, I think they bury them. At first it is so no one can see how much they hurt, but after a while, it becomes second nature and the love is forgotten. Women are allowed to wallow in self-pity with their friends fueling the fire."
Richard turned his gaze out the window. "If I could only somehow let you see inside a man's soul, to show you how he longs for someone he can't have." He looked back at her. "When I was traveling with Frederick, Maggie stayed home. Being on the road is a tough life and I wouldn't let her be corrupted by it. It was so hard to leave her, even though I knew I was coming back. Sometimes she would fly in and meet us." He smiled. "Frederick can tell you I was just like a kid at Christmas when I knew she was coming. I knew she'd be in at a certain time, but I couldn't help wishing she'd arrive sooner. And when I saw her get off that plane, my heart would soar." He paused a moment while he remembered, then his face dimmed. "After Phoebe died, I just couldn't do it anymore. I couldn't bear the thought that something might happen and I wouldn't be there. So I quit. Can you understand that?"
Anne nodded, tears in her eyes. "I believe that you feel strongly, as strong as any woman, as long as," she paused unsure if she should continue. Richard reached out and squeezed her hand as if to say 'it's all right.' She smiled gratefully. "As long as the woman you love lives and lives only for you." She blushed slightly and looked down. "The only privilege I claim for women, and it's not very desirable so don't be too envious, is that of continuing to love when all hope is gone."
Richard sighed deeply. "Anne, you're such a sensitive caring person." He squeezed her hand again. "I can't argue with you. And when I think of James," he sighed again, "I just can't speak."
At that moment, Sophy Croft stood and made the move to leave. "Well, Anne I guess we'll see you at your sister's party tomorrow. Frederick, are you coming with me or do you and Richard have some mischief to get into?"
Frederick seemed not to hear his sister. He was shuffling papers around on the desk. He folded a few pieces of paper and stuffed them into his shirt pocket, then turned to face the others. "Richard, I've found a jeweler to set the stone. We can go there now if you like."
Richard nodded and turned back to Anne. "Thank you, Anne. I hope I didn't bore you."
Anne just smiled, then leaned over and kissed him on the cheek.
Sophy, Richard and Frederick all said their good byes and headed out the door. Mrs. Musgrove went over to one of the windows and said, "I can't imagine what's taking those three so long. I was sure they'd be back by now."
Anne began walking towards the desk when there was a knock at the door. Mrs. Musgrove answered it only to find Frederick back again.
"I'm sorry," he said, "I don't know where my head is this morning. I think I've left my keys here."
Mrs. Musgrove laughed and let him in, then walked back to the window.
Anne's eyes followed him across the room. He walked over to the desk, picked up his keys, and, with a glance towards Mrs. Musgrove to make sure she wasn't watching, he looked pointedly at Anne and pulled a note out from the telephone book.
He said good bye and was gone.
Anne could hardly breath. After being assured that Mrs. Musgrove was still employed at looking out the window, she crossed the room and picked up the note. With another glance at her companion, she read:
Tonight! Double D Grill, 8:00 pm. Second set, last song.
NOTE: This is a little different than you may have expected. I decided against the traditional "letter" but never fear I have something in mind that I think you'll like.
Anne read the paper in her hands three times before she began to breathe again. She was completely unaware when Mary, Henrietta and Charles entered the room, even though they made quite a bit of noise. Finally the sound of Charles calling her name brought her around.
"Anne! Are you all right?" He was almost next to her. She turned to face him, keeping Frederick's note hidden behind her.
"I'm sorry. Yes, I'm fine. Just a little tired." She looked over towards Mary and Henrietta. "I don't think I'll be able to go shopping with you. I think I'll go home and rest."
Mary started to protest, but the others quickly assured Anne that if she wasn't feeling well, she needed to go home. Mrs. Musgrove pressed Charles to drive Anne home, but Anne gratefully refused saying that she'd be fine.
Once in her car, Anne took out the note and read it again. Double D Grill. Anne knew the place. It was a small western style restaurant that had bands playing in the evenings. Not being a fancy place, there weren't usually many tourists there.
She drove home, all the while contemplating what Frederick could be up to.
Around 7:00 pm, Anne walked quietly down the steps of her home. She didn't want to have to explain where she was going, so she was hoping that no one would see her leave. Closing the door behind her, she breathed a sigh of relief.
Anne arrived at the Double D at 7:45. The place wasn't too crowded. When she walked in, she was met by the host, who ushered her to small table near the stage. A waitress arrived shortly to take her order. Anne was too nervous to eat, so she ordered a soda and tried to relax.
At 8:00 on the dot, the lights dimmed and the host took the stage.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we have a real special treat for you tonight. We're happy to welcome back to the Double D a young man who used to play here quite a bit, but somehow someone figured out just exactly how much talent he had and made a big star out of him." The crowd laughed a little. "Well, he's in town and just this morning, he called me and asked if I would mind if he had a little jam session here tonight. Being the old softy that I am," the crowed laughed again, "I just couldn't turn him down. So get comfortable 'cause you're really going to enjoy this. The Double D is real happy to welcome back to our stage Frederick Wentworth!"
The crowd went wild. Everyone was standing, applauding, and whistling. Frederick and the band made their way onto the stage.
"Thanks for that great welcome," said Frederick. "It's good to be back at the Double D. I've missed this place." Applause. "Tonight my friends and I thought we'd play some old favorites and try out a couple of new things just to see how you like them." More applause and whistling. "This first song is one of the first songs I ever recorded."
The band began to play and Frederick sang:
We call them cool
Those hearts that have no scars to show
The ones that never do let go
And risk the tables being turnedWe call them fools
Who have to dance within the flame
Who chance the sorrow and the shame
That always comes with getting burnedBut you've got to be tough when consumed by desire
'Cause it's not enough just to stand outside the fireWe call them strong
Those who can face this world alone
Who seem to get by on their own
Those who will never take the fallWe call them weak
Who are unable to resist
The slightest chance love might exist
And for that forsake it allThey're so hell-bent on living, walking a wire
Convinced it's not living if you stand outside the fireStanding outside the fire
Standing outside the fire
Life is not tried, it is merely survived
If you're standing outside the fireThere's this love that is burning
Deep in my soul
Constantly yearning to get out of control
Wanting to fly higher and higher
I can't abide standing outside the fireStanding outside the fire
Standing outside the fire
Life is not tried, it is merely survived
If you're standing outside the fireStanding outside the fire
Standing outside the fire
Life is not tried, it is merely survived
If you're standing outside the fire(Garth Brooks)
By the end of the song, the crowd was clapping and singing along. Frederick and the band played for 45 minutes before they took their break. Anne watched him leave the stage. From the way he greeted people, she determined that he must have known pretty much everyone in the place. She wondered if he would come and talk to her.
Fifteen minutes later, Frederick and the band returned to the stage. After they played a bunch of songs, the band left the stage leaving Frederick by himself.
"This next song is one that I just wrote...ah...this afternoon actually. The band hasn't even learned to play it yet. So I hope you'll indulge me a bit. Eventually, I'll get the guys in on this, but for now...," he shrugged his shoulders. After pausing a moment, he looked right at Anne, "I hope you like it."
It's that feeling, that someone is standing, behind me
And I turn around and there's no one there
And it's the, sensation that someone, just whispered
Yeah and I still hear your voice but you're not really here
Your memory is like a ghost
And my heart is its hostI can still feel you, just as close as skin
Every now and then All by myself, in a crowded room, on my empty bed
There's a place you've touched
With your love, no one gets close to
I can still feel you, I can still feel you, I can still feel you, I can still feel youYou said you'd love, me forever
Then you said, it's over
And left me without the missing link
I thought I'd, forget you
But I guess I, forgot to
And lately I've been too confused to think
When I reach for someone new
It's like I'm touching you
Anne felt the words sink into her. Several times, especially during the chorus, Frederick would look at Anne. She tried to meet his eyes, but the shame of her behavior towards him during their first engagement kept coming back to her and she had to look down.
I can still feel you, just as close as skin
Every now and then All by myself, in a crowded room, on my empty bed
There's a place you've touched
With your love, no one gets close to
I can still feel you, I can still feel you, I can still feel you, I can still feel youIn everything that moves
In everything I do
I can still feel you, just as close as skin
Every now and then All by myself, in a crowded room, on my empty bed
There's a place you've touched
With your love, no one gets close to
I can still feel you, I can still feel you, I can still feel you, I can still feel you(Colin Raye)
When he finished, the crowd came to its feet in enthusiastic applause. Frederick didn't seem to hear them; he was looking Anne. Finally, he acknowledged the crowd's appreciation. He smiled and took a small bow.
Anne was still sitting, letting his words sink in when the waitress appeared. She handed Anne a bouquet of simple flowers and one red rose. There was an envelope attached to the bouquet. Anne glanced around then opened the envelope.
Anne,As I listened to you talking with Richard this morning I could hardly keep silent. Your words pierced my soul. At this very moment, my emotions are waging a battle within. Half of me is in agony at the thought that you may no longer care. The other half screams that there is hope for me. The very fact that you are here tonight speaks volumes. You said this morning that women love longest. That's not true. There's been no one since you. I'm surprised that you haven't realized how much I still care just from my face. I feel like it's been shining like a beacon. If you think we can try again, I'll be waiting outside. If you don't come to me, then I'll know that it really is over.
Always yours,
Frederick
For the second time that day, Anne had to remember to breathe. She looked around the restaurant for Frederick. He was no where to be seen. Outside she thought He must be outside already She signaled the waitress and asked for the bill.
"Already taken care of," came the reply.
Anne barely took the time to thank the woman before she raced out of the door. The Double D was on a fairly busy street, so there were always people milling around. She looked up and down the street a few times, before she distinguished Frederick leaning up against the far end of the building. He was trying not to be recognized, so his face was down.
She made her way through the Friday night crowd. When she was about ten feet from him, he looked up. She stopped. Their eyes met. Slowly (just like in the movies) they walked towards each other. They stopped inches apart.
"I wasn't sure if you come tonight, much less meet me out here," he whispered. "I couldn't forget you. I tried but...there's never been anyone for me but you."
Anne's eyes filled with tears. "Oh, Frederick," she choked out.
He slowly brought his hand up to her face. With his thumb, he brushed away the tear that escaped down her cheek. "My Anne," he said softly, then he placed a gentle kiss on her lips. Anne was smiling though her tears. He pulled her into his arms, crushing the flowers she held.
Anne didn't care, she was finally where she belonged. She wrapped her arms around his waist and buried her face in his chest.
After a few moments, Frederick pulled back and looked down at her. "I love you, Anne Elliott."
"And I love you, Frederick Wentworth. I always have."
He smiled and kissed her again, more deeply. Oblivious to the people milling around them, they stood wrapped in each other's arms as if they were the only two people on earth.
Anne couldn't remember how she made it home, (She must have floated!), but she lay in her bed staring at the ceiling. She couldn't sleep. All she could think about was Frederick. They were finally together. With a smile, she remembered how her sister, Elizabeth, had said that she wanted to get to know Frederick better. I doubt she meant as her brother in law. Anne suppressed a giggle. She thought of how surprised everyone would be; her father, Emelia, the Musgroves, Charles and Mary, the Crofts. Frederick had told her how much his sister and brother-in-law liked her and how happy they would be to welcome her into their family. Anne felt a momentary pang of shame that she could not offer Frederick the same from her family. Charles and Mary would be thrilled, and Emelia may even come around, but her father and Elizabeth...she wasn't sure how they would react. She knew that they were impressed by his fame, but she wasn't at all sure that they would love him just for himself.
At 7:00 am, the alarm woke Anne. She wasn't sure when she drifted off, but she knew she couldn't have slept longer that an hour or so. Surprisingly (or not), she didn't feel tired. She dressed and made her way downstairs.
Elizabeth and Penny were in the dining room, giggling over their plans for the evening.
"Good morning," said Anne cheerily.
"Good morning," responded Elizabeth. "You're awfully chipper for someone who didn't get home until 4:00 am."
Anne filled a plate and sat down at the table. "I guess I'm just looking forward to this evening."
"Speaking of this evening," said Elizabeth, "try not to monopolize all the men, especially Frederick Wentworth. It's a bad habit you've picked up."
Anne tried to look penitent. "I'll try to behave."
"See that you do."
Anne looked down at her plate to keep from giggling.
A few hours later, they were sitting in the living room when there was a knock at the door. Penny went to answer it and returned a few moments later with William Walter.
"Hello, ladies," he said happily. "How are we today?"
"Will, darling, how nice to see you. How was your trip?" cooed Elizabeth.
"Productive. But let's not talk business. I've come to try to convince you all to have pity on a poor bachelor and have lunch with me."
"But Will," exclaimed Elizabeth, "have you forgotten? Tonight is the party."
"I know, but you have to eat." He sat down next to Anne and casually put his arm around her shoulders. "It's a beautiful day, and I just thought you might want to see some of it."
"Well," said Elizabeth slowly, " I guess if we're not out too long." She stood up. "Come on Penny. Let's get ready."
Once they were out of the room, William turned his attention to Anne. "You look fantastic. Where would you like to eat?"
She stood up and walked across the room. "I'm sorry William, I'm afraid I can't come."
"What do you mean?"
She turned and faced him. "I mean I can't have lunch with you."
"But you're the reason I came over. I don't want to have lunch with your sister and Penny. I only invited them out of courtesy. Why can't you?"
"I'm having lunch with a friend."
"Invite her along. The more the merrier."
Anne looked William right in the eyes. "Sorry, he doesn't like crowds."
William's eyes widened and his mouth dropped open. Before he could say anything, Elizabeth and Penny came back into the room.
Anne walked towards the stairs. "Have fun you guys. I'll see you later."
The last glimpse Anne had of William was him walking out the door with Elizabeth on one arm and Penny on the other.