Beginning, Section II, Next Section

Chapter 2, Part 3

Fruit or Chocolate?

After the host told them the specials, he placed a wine list on the table and left. Elizabeth had listened when the host was describing the specials, but did not really understand him. She had not taken French since high school and was not very fluent anymore. She could read and decipher some words, but most of it did not make any sense. She began to move nervously in her seat. Elizabeth hoped it did not seem obvious that she had no idea what to order.

William was sitting back in his chair with his chin resting on his fist. He was familiar with the menu already. William was looking at Elizabeth the entire time the host was talking. The lighting in the restaurant softened her features. He could not help looking at her. He was too preoccupied to notice her frustration over the menu.

"Do you have any recommendations?" There was a slight tone of frustration in her voice. She did not look up from the menu. She was trying very hard to figure out what some of the dishes were. She understood the words for chicken, fish, and beef, but was having a hard time figuring out what accompanied the dishes. Her brow was furrowed and she was biting her lower lip.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I forgot you've never had French food." He opened his menu to look.

"I am open to trying new things, as long as it doesn't involve snails or frog's legs." After Elizabeth realized what she had said, she became self-conscious of the fact that she might have sounded uncultured. William chuckled. When she looked up at him, he was smiling which pleased her.

"I do know that French desserts are outstanding." She noticed that he was still smiling at her. He was also staring at her. She was not sure if it was the lighting in the restaurant, but she could see warmth in his eyes. She liked it, but it caused her to blush and so, she looked back at the menu.

He realized that he must be making her uncomfortable and tried to lighten the mood, "Are there any other aversions you would like to avoid?"

She smiled, but did not look up. "As long as it's not something that my students would like as a pet, then no, I don't have any other aversions."

He smiled and said, "Do you trust me to order for you then?"

Even though ordering dinner was a trivial matter, she still did not like the idea of giving up her choice. She knew that he knew the menu better than she did which would make ordering easier. But it was still unsettling to her. She had never needed to rely on someone so completely before. Elizabeth was used to being in control of any situation she was in. She was looking down at the menu and her eyes were moving back and forth, but she was not really reading it. She was thinking about how ignorant she must seem to him. She looked up at him, and the warmth that was in his eyes had changed into a gentle look.

William could tell that she was struggling to decide whether or not to let him order for her. The few women he did go out with easily gave in to his suggestions or they would insist that he order for them. He was impressed that she was not so easily swayed even though it was just ordering dinner. He decided to present a compromise.

"If you allow me to order dinner, then you can order dessert." He looked at her for a reaction. The struggle in her features slowly disappeared and they were replaced with the a familiar arch-ness that he had come to recognize as being a part of Elizabeth's personality.

"Any dessert?"

"Yes." He smiled.

"And will you act only as an interpreter? You will translate only what is in the dessert and not impart any partiality towards any of them?" She seemed serious, but then a smile began to form at the corners of her lips.

William laughed, "I will try not to influence your decision in any way."

She was pleased with the compromise and agreed that he would order dinner and she would order dessert. Elizabeth realized she had probably been overreacting before. Elizabeth looked at William. He had a small smile on his face. It put her at ease again.

William then asked about wine.

"Wine?" She asked.

"Yes, wine is a very important part of a French meal." He was serious when he said this.

Elizabeth was weary. She did not drink alcohol. She had champagne at a wedding once and mixed drinks (girly drinks) at a party, but other than those few occasions she did not really drink. She was trying to recall the things she had seen and learned from the Food Network and determine as to whether or not wine was an important part of a French meal, when William interrupted her thoughts.

"I assure you, my intentions are honorable." He was smiling at her. Was he teasing her? she wondered.

"I don't doubt your intentions," giving him a playful look which he did not miss, "but I don't normally drink alcohol."

"Oh, well, then perhaps another time." He was surprised by her admission, but remembered she did not drink coffee either.

"If you would like to have wine with dinner, please do. I don't mind." She did not want to ruin the meal.

"I do appreciate wine with dinner, but it is not a necessity." She still did not look convinced, so he tried a different approach. "Wine is sold by the bottle here and I think that would be a bit excessive even for me."

She laughed and said, "I had not thought about it in that way."

A waiter came by and William ordered for them. From what she could tell, they were going to start off with soup and some type of appetizer. There was going to be something before the main course, which sounded like some type of fruit. The main course was going to be salmon. When the waiter asked about dessert, William told him that the lady was still deciding. She could not help smiling. Then the waiter asked about wine, and William looked at Elizabeth with a smile and said there would be no wine tonight.

The waiter bowed and left. William and Elizabeth were left alone. The host had not seated anyone else in their corner since they had been seated at that table. No one was seated at the table behind William or at the one behind Elizabeth. On one side of them was a window and on the other were three empty tables. The area was intimate because it was small and secluded. The area was separated from the other part of the restaurant by a pathway to the kitchen and restrooms. The pathway was lined on both sides by frosted glass partitions. They could hear the other guests, but they could only see dark shadows through the frosted glass partitions.

William thought this was strange since the restaurant was usually busier. He began to think that Anne had a hand in this too. He made a note to himself to give her a raise.

Elizabeth also noticed that they seemed to be conspicuously away from the rest of the crowd. She wondered if it was purposely done, but then quickly dismissed the idea. It was too soon to have such thoughts.

"Is it usually like this?" She asked.

"No," William noticed that she shifted in her seat and thought he should try to make her more comfortable. "Actually they do this every time I come in."

At first she thought he was being serious, but then she noticed a smile escape from his lips. Then she began to laugh. He liked making her laugh.

"I'm afraid that this is the work of my cousin Anne."

"Oh." She was not sure how to take this. She felt flattered, but they had just met. He was amiable. He was kind and generous, but she could not let her feelings run away after oneevening. William noticed that his last comment did not have the effect he desired and tried again.

"She doesn't think I go out enough, so when I do," he cleared his throat before he continued, "she tries to help me as much as she can." The emphasis on help was not lost on Elizabeth and she laughed quietly.

"I'm sure she has good intentions, but I don't see how you would need any help with matters like this." She smiled, but then realized what she said and looked down at her napkin.

William was flattered by her comment. She was making him feel like a school boy again.

He looked at her and noticed that she was blushing. Then he said, in a lowered voice, "It's much harder than you think."

She looked up at him when the words registered in her head. He was serious, but there was gentleness in his eyes again. Elizabeth could not believe what he was saying. She was about to say something when the waiter showed up with some food.

She did not really savor any of the food she ate because she was thinking about William's comment. He was serious when he said it, but she could not believe thathe had a hard time meeting people. Then she remembered earlier that evening in the coffee shop. She remembered how hard it was to draw him in to a conversation. She did not get the impression that he was unwilling, just perhaps very careful. She thought how some people might misinterpret his behavior as rude or perhaps even attribute it to a taciturn disposition. She could see how some people would give up easily or just dismiss him as unsociable.

William was also not concentrating on the food as well. He thought about what he had said to Elizabeth, but he did not regret it. In fact, he was glad he said it. It was nice to be able to talk easily with someone else. He liked her humor and wit. He felt that she was not judging him or drawing conclusions about 'where this was going'. Instead, it seemed that she was only interested with living in the present.

He looked at her again. She seemed to be concentrating on the food. His eyes lingered on her figure again. He had not noticed before, but she was wearing a very flattering shirt. It was not overtly revealing. It had short sleeves, a collar, and it buttoned down the front. But, it was sheer and had dark prints on it. On closer examination, one could make out some of her skin. He was unsure at first and tried to look again. When he realized he was right, he tried to look away, but could not. He thought, no one could really notice this unless they had the privilege to be in her company for a certain length of time. He could not help feeling flattered that she wore this for him. However, he quickly dismissed the feeling. She never gave him any idea that she was trying to impress or please him.

Elizabeth had noticed that William was staring at her again. When she quickly glanced at him, she noticed that he was looking at her shirt. She smiled inwardly. She had purposely worn this shirt tonight. When she had bought it last summer and showed it to Jane, Jane had liked it very much. She said that it was a shirt to wear if you wanted to leave a lasting impression.

When Elizabeth was getting ready for her date, she noticed that Jane had laid out the shirt. It was a first date and she usually saved the shirt for second or third dates, but something told her that she should take Jane's advice and wear it. If they did not have a second date, she would be at least comforted with the knowledge that shehad left a lasting impression.

The appetizer was cleared and the soup was served. William waited for Elizabeth to test the soup.

Elizabeth remembered the tea incident earlier and became self- conscious as she tested it. She stopped and began to stir it instead.

"You're not going to test it?" There was a hint of disappointment in his voice.

Elizabeth blushed and said, "I think I will wait." She looked down at her soup bowl and continued to stir it. Elizabeth noticed the slight disappointment in his voice. She smiled inwardly.

William noticed Elizabeth blush after he asked her about testing it. He decided to change the subject. "Would you like to figure out what to have for dessert?"

"Yes. I would like that." She looked at him and she seemed to be at ease again.

Before he could tell her what was offered for dessert, a woman dressed in an orange suit-dress appeared. Elizabeth noticed that her hair was nicely fixed (perhaps at one of those fancy, expensive salons). Even though the restaurant was not very well lit, Elizabeth was able to make out that she was wearing heavy blush and lipstick. The woman was also wearing large gold hoop earrings and a wide gold bracelet. Instead of a necklace, the woman had on a yellow chiffon scarf. The woman had sheer pantyhose and matching designer orange slipper- style shoes. Elizabeth self-consciously checked herself. She was pleased with her shirt, but she sighed softly when she saw her jeans. Elizabeth could not help feeling a bit intimidated.

"William! I thought it was you. I had to come see for myself. Why did they put you so far away from the rest of the other tables?" She stood in front of him and did not acknowledge Elizabeth.

Elizabeth noticed that the gentleness in his features had disappeared and his body became very tense.

"Caroline, it is nice to see you." Although he was being polite, there was no warmth in his greeting.

Caroline did not notice the lack of warmth in his greeting and began talking as if she had not interrupted anything. Elizabeth remembered how Anne had brought up her name in the car and his reaction that had ensued. She also remembered that her last name was Bingley. Surely she could not be Charles' sister. Their manners are quite different. She thought.

William waited for a pause in Caroline's on-going dialogue. He willed himself not to roll his eyes. Instead he looked passed her. "What if she goes on like this for the rest of the night?" he thought. He was not usually so rude to Charles' sister, but he felt that she was interrupting something . . . He was not sure how to describe the evening. He did know, however, that he wanted to continue it with Elizabeth. Apparently Caroline said something funny because she was laughing, but it was a forced laugh. It did not even reach her eyes like Elizabeth's did. William realized that Caroline had stopped talking, and he took the opportunity to introduce Elizabeth.

"Caroline, may I introduce you to Elizabeth Bennet." Caroline turned to Elizabeth and barely nodded to her. "Elizabeth, this is Caroline Bingley."

Elizabeth smiled at her and said, "It's nice to meet you."

Caroline gave her a small smile and said, "Are you William's friend ?" The tone of her voice was strained.

Elizabeth could tell that Caroline was not pleased that she was with William and could not resist saying, "Actually, I just met William tonight. Charles, who I believe is your brother, arranged for us to meet."

The color in Caroline's face was rising, but she managed to contain her emotions. William tried to contain his own amusement by pretending to wipe his mouth with his napkin. Elizabeth noticed both of their reactions.

Caroline was shocked that William would takeher to this restaurant on a first date. She knew it was a favorite of his family's and therefore special. Caroline seethed at the idea that this was a date and that her own brother had arranged it all.

Then Caroline collected herself and said, "Are you enjoying the food? New experiences with different cuisines can be quite overwhelming." She had a triumphant look on her face.

William was no longer amused and was about to say something in defense, but Elizabeth was quicker to respond. If anything, Elizabeth was not going to let her have the satisfaction of ruining their evening.

"I agree that new experiences with different cuisines can be quite overwhelming," she then looked at William and gave him a meaningful look, "but I have been so fortunate enough to have William help me through this experience." She then turned to Caroline who was seething at the implications, and gave her her sweetest smile.

William was surprised at her comeback. Most other women that showed any interest in him would usually quickly falter and retreat when they came under Caroline's attack. He got the impression that Elizabeth was not one to back down from a fight. Indeed she had endured more of Caroline's behavior than most women did and had handled herself quite well. His admiration for Elizabeth only grew to greater heights. Both the ladies turned to William, but William was observing Elizabeth. Elizabeth smiled, but Caroline's mouth kept opening and closing. She was about to retaliate when the main course arrived.

As they were being served, William said, "Caroline, will you please excuse us." He never took his eyes off Elizabeth. Caroline could not do anything else, but leave. She gave Elizabeth a scornful look before she left, but Elizabeth did not notice because she was caught in William's gaze.

As soon as Caroline was gone, Elizabeth collected herself and said, "I am sorry if I gave Caroline the impression that there may be something more, " she paused before she continued, "I do not usually allow such behavior to effect me like that." She was being honest. She did not like that Caroline was trying to make her feel like there could be no possible reason why William could be interested inher. She knew that she was not as attractive as Jane, but well, she felt that she could hold her own.

William smiled at her and said, "You have no reason to apologize. Her behavior was inexcusable. You handled yourself quite well. Most women run away when they meet Caroline."

Before she thought about what she was going to say, Elizabeth said, "How many women has she scared away? Well, I'll tell you right now, I do not scare that easily."

She looked at William who was smiling. Then he said, "I'm glad."

They both looked down at their food and then at each other. They could not help it and began to laugh. He thought he should be concerned about Elizabeth's fierce declaration, but he was not. In fact, it had the opposite effect. He liked that she was strong and passionate about how she felt. His admiration for her grew even more. He knew that he should not let his feelings run away, but it was very difficult. He decided that he would try to get to know her better.

Elizabeth was not sure how she felt. She had decided earlier that she would not get too carried away with how well things seemed to being going with William, but when Caroline had tried to imply that she was not worthy, it had enraged her. In her mind, she had punched Caroline straight between the eyes. She smiled inwardly at the idea, but knew it would never happen (no matter how much she needed it). She tried to figure out why it had made her so upset. She tried to reason with herself that Caroline brought out the worst in people. But even if this was true, she knew there had to be something more. She admitted that she liked William. She liked what she knew of him so far, and there seemed to be more to learn. She wanted that chance. Caroline made her feel like she did not deserve that chance. She looked at William who was eating. She remembered what he said when she told him that she did not scare easily-I'm glad. A smile spread across her face. William noticed this and smiled back. She decided not to give anymore credence to Caroline's behavior and to try to enjoy the rest of the evening.

"You're not backing out of dessert are you?" William looked at Elizabeth trying to gauge her feelings.

"Certainly not. Are you trying to back out on your promise?" She gave him a playful look.

He smiled and said, "I would never break a promise." He sounded more serious than he meant to. He made a mental note to himself to try and not be so serious.

"What kind of desserts do you recommend with fruit?"

"Fruit?"

"Yes, are you surprised?"

"I thought you would be interested in something with chocolate. French cooks do amazing things with chocolate desserts."

"Yes, chocolate is a wonderful dessert, but something tells me that I should go with fruit tonight."

He hesitated before he spoke, "What do you mean?"

"I do enjoy chocolate very much, but some people consider it to be an aphrodisiac." They both laughed, and Elizabeth continued, "I would not want to give people the impression that I was trying to seduce you. I am trying to maintain a respectable reputation." She smiled and gave him an arched look. He was speechless. He had never met a woman so... charming.

"Well, when is it appropriate to have chocolate with someone without raising any speculations?" He leaned closer to her.

She was taken aback by his presence. Her apprehensions earlier about having dinner with William were becoming a distant memory. Elizabeth then smiled archly and said, "When I have determined that your intentions are honorable and you have proven yourself worthy." The tone of her voice had a playful manner.

William leaned back in his chair and put his hand over his mouth. He looked at her intently. Elizabeth was surprised by the sudden change in his behavior. Then William said, "But that could take some time." His manner was serious, and there was a look in his eyes that showed he was in earnest.

Elizabeth smiled at his comment. She was pleased by his reaction.

"William," she had a disarming smile that he enjoyed very much, "I would have to say that if you continue in this way, I would not be surprised if we were having chocolate for dessert on our second or third date." She smiled as she said this.

At first William just looked at her with his brow furrowed. Then he blinked several times and the wrinkles in his forehead disappeared. Finally, a smile spread across his lips.

Elizabeth smiled, but could no longer look at him. She felt her ears and the nape of her neck burning. Then she said that she would trust his judgment for dessert, and excused herself to the lady's room. William watched her retreating figure and wished for her return immediately.

Chapter 2, Part 4

The Lady's Room

Elizabeth left the table quickly, but it was not because she was trying to get away from the gentleman. In fact, if nature had not called, she would gladly have spent more time in his company. But as it was, time away from him would at least allow her a few moments to reflect upon how the evening had progressed so far. She asked a busboy for directions to the lady's room, and he directed her towards the back of the restaurant.

As she walked in that direction, she thought about what had just happened. She could not believe what she had just said to him. At first, when the words had left her mouth, she half regretted uttering them. She wanted to encourage him, but she did not want to do it in such an overt manner. She really did not know what had come over her. Yet, a part of her had to admit that she was pleased with his reaction. She could not help smiling when remembering the expression on his face when her words had first registered in his mind. His final expression was one that had taken form gradually. First, his knitted eyebrows had relaxed. Then, his chin, which had originally been resting on his hand, fell as his hand dropped. And finally, at that crucial moment of recognition, his eyes grew wide, like two silver dollars. To complete the look, a wide grin had spread across his face and the look he gave her. . . it could really sustain a woman for days, she thought.

After Elizabeth entered the restroom, she checked herself in the mirror. Her cheeks were flushed and she noticed a brightness in her eyes that pleased her. She felt confident in what she had said to William. It did feel right. She smiled at herself before she went into a stall at the end of the row.

Author's Note: Special thanks to Amy I. for helping me with William's look of recognition. :)

If we were to return to William to see how he was doing while Elizabeth was in the restroom, we would see that he was also pleased with how the evening was progressing. When the waiter came to take their dessert order, the waiter noticed that William's tone was friendly. Not that William was ever rude to the waiter (his mother would turn over in her grave if he had been), but there was a subtle difference in his manner that the waiter noticed, having waited on him several times before when he was alone. There was no doubt as to what had attributed to the change in his behavior.

The waiter mentioned it to the host Philippe, who just so happened to mention it to Miss Anne De Bourgh, who just so happened to call to see if there was anything that her boss needed before she retired for the evening. Philippe was very pleased to inform her that Mr. Darcy did not require anything and seemed to be in very capable hands. Anne, who was very pleased to hear this, and could not help feeling that she had a hand in this, decided that when the opportunity presented itself, she would ask William for a raise.

Meanwhile, William was still thinking about the last part of his conversation with Elizabeth before she left:

"William, I would have to say that if you continue in this way, I would not be surprised if we were having chocolate for dessert on our second or third date."

There was no doubt about how she felt in regards to seeing him again or for that matter the possibility of, he stopped in the middle of his thought and swallowed,a relationship. He let the idea linger in his mind. No immediate feelings of aversion or the need to escape came to him. Usually these feelings were quick to surface when he thought about this particular possibility with other female acquaintances. But, the possibility of getting to know Elizabeth and then perhaps moving on to something more. . . the idea made him smile.

From what he knew of her so far, he liked her very much. She was kind and warm. She also had a good sense of humor, and judging from the last part of their conversation she had an allure that was artless. Indeed, he knew her statement had not been a calculated one because he had noticed the color rise in her cheeks after she had said it. He suspected that she had a passionate nature that she seldom revealed to anyone and the idea that he might see it and be able to bring it out, increased his interests ten fold. He was eager for her return. Although she had just left the table, to him it seemed much longer.

Elizabeth was about to come out of the stall when she heard some ladies enter the restroom. She would have come out, but they were not discreet with their conversation, so she decided to stay in the stall. She thought it would be best especially since the conversation was about her.

"Louisa, what does William mean by showing up with this Elizabeth Bennet?"

There was a distinct emphasis on this that was not lost on Elizabeth. "Who do I know is capable of being this catty?" Elizabeth wondered.

"It is quite alarming, Caroline."

Elizabeth inwardly groaned when she heard Caroline's name mentioned. "She could not even wait until we left the restaurant to tear me up." As she thought this, a small smile appeared on Elizabeth's lips.

Louisa continued, "One would think that he would pay you the attention that is due to you." She was primping her hair in front of the mirror. Then Louisa said, "After all, it's obvious who is more superior as far as where wealth and fashion are concerned."

"It is most distressing. I can't believe that he would prefer such an unrefined and unfashionable person." Caroline was in the process of spreading on a dark shade of lipstick, even though it looked like she already had some on. Her voice revealed the effort it took for her to say person.

Elizabeth had to contain her laughter.

"Did you see her hair, Louisa?"*

"She almost looked wild!"

"What does she mean to go scampering about in such a way! Her hair was unruly and she hardly had any make up on." Caroline was applying more powder to her already caked complexion. Louisa was nodding with disapproval.

Caroline went on, "Did you see her clothes? I could hardly keep my countenance. She was wearing jeans and the table cloth was not hiding them as well as she thought."

By this time, Elizabeth was bracing herself against the wall of the stall. She was trying to contain her laughter. She could not believe that people would care about things like this. Although she took it in stride, there was a part of her who was ready to kick open the door and go Buffy on her.

Then Elizabeth noticed that the tone in Caroline's voice had lowered. Elizabeth listened carefully, "Well, you know the reason why she is out with William?"

Louisa gave her sister a knowing look. Caroline continued, "Judging from her appearance, she must be wanting a better situation than she has now."

Louisa nodded her head in agreement. Caroline took this as a cue to continue, "Any woman who meets William can tell that he is a man of consequence. It's obvious that her situation is quite lacking, so of course she would do anything to improve it."

Elizabeth let the words register in her head. She could not believe what Caroline was implying. She felt her ears starting to burn.

"Unfortunately, William seems to be falling for her act. I'll give her credit, she certainly knows how to play him." There was a pause before she continued, "Or perhaps she's had experience in this area." When Caroline said this, Elizabeth heard shrill laughter come from them. Elizabeth could feel her throat tightening. Her fists were balled up.

Then Louisa said, "I would not give it too much credit, Caroline." Another pause and then she said, "Perhaps it's just a passing fancy to keep him occupied while he's out here." They laughed again and then Louisa reminded Caroline that they had best return to the table before Mr. Hurst made a fool of himself and with that they were gone.

*Parts of the dialogue between Caroline and Louisa were taken from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice during the breakfast scene at Netherfield after Elizabeth had arrived from Longbourn.

Chapter 2, Part 5

Good night . . . and good luck.

Elizabeth could not believe what she had just heard. Normally she did not care what other people thought about her, but she could not help from thinking about what Caroline and Louisa had said. She immediately dismissed the part of her being a passing fancy. It was obvious that William did not take these matters so lightly. The way things had gone at the coffee shop certainly proved that he did not start things with other people unless he had meaningful intentions.

What bothered her was the implication that she wanted more in her life. Caroline's words echoed in her mind, Judging from her appearance, she must be wanting a better situation than she has now. They did not know her. They had no idea what her life was like. The other implication that she may achieve this by trapping William made her uneasy.

What bothered Elizabeth about it was the idea that she was out with William only because she was interested in his wealth. Wealth was never important to her, but she realized that other people might assume that was the reason she was with him because of the great difference in their positions in society. Her feelings from earlier that evening in the car began to resurface. Her insecurities began to creep back into her mind.

She made her way out of the stall. If she had taken the time to glance at herself in the mirror, she would have noticed that her appearance was quite different than when she first came in. But she did not check herself, and walked out of the restroom in a daze.

As she walked back to the table, the waiters and busboys tried their best to avoid running in to her. She was not paying attention to her surroundings. As she approached, William noticed the difference in her manner.

Elizabeth sat down, but she did not look at William. Her mind seemed to be somewhere else. Caroline's words had stung her pride. Elizabeth became self-conscious about her appearance. She started looking around her chair and pulled her coat on. She put it on as if she were exposed and was trying to cover herself from other people. She did not want to give any more reason for further speculation. Although Elizabeth heard only Caroline's opinions, she began to think that perhaps other people in the restaurant might share Caroline's opinion as well. A part of her knew that she was being unreasonable, but her insecurities were overpowering her ability to be reasonable. William was talking to her, but she did not hear him at first.

"Elizabeth, are you alright?" He was genuinely concerned. He had moved closer to her and was leaning towards her.

"I'm sorry. What did you say?" She finally looked at him and realized that she was back at the table. She did not remember getting there.

"Are you alright? You look like you got the wind knocked out of you." By this time, he had taken her hand. His eyes were searching her face for answers.

Elizabeth slowly pulled her hand away and said, "Actually I'm not feeling too well. I don't think the food agreed with me." She did not want to lie, but she could not tell him what she had heard in the ladies' room either.

"Would you like to go home then?" He was disappointed that they had to cut their evening short, but he did not like to see her in such a condition. He wanted to help her, but he was not sure how.

Elizabeth nodded and said no more. William got the waiter's attention and the waiter came over.

"May I have the check, please?" He stole a glance at Elizabeth. She was looking down and had her hands in her coat pockets.

"Would you like to take home the dessert?" The waiter asked.

At the word dessert Elizabeth looked up with a hurt look on her face. She had forgotten about that. Then she remembered her remarks before she had left the table, "William, I would have to say that if you continue in this way, I would not be surprised if we were having chocolate for dessert on our second or third date." She had not said it to try and trap William. She cringed at herself.

William took her expression to mean that she was really sick. "No, thank you." He said to the waiter.

When the waiter left, William looked at Elizabeth. He noticed that she was carrying herself as if she was trying to hide. "What could she be trying to hide from?" He wondered. Her liveliness was replaced by a quiet, solemnity that did not seem to fit her character. Her insecurities were getting the best of her.

"Are you sure there isn't anything else bothering you?" The gentleness in his eyes had returned and Elizabeth had to look away. The waiter returned with the bill and William took care of it. Soon they were walking away from the table.

As they were walking, Elizabeth walked in front of him. He noticed she held her head down on their way to the exit. Elizabeth could not bring herself to look at the people in the restaurant. She did not want to give the impression that she was out with William for material purposes. Elizabeth did not want to do anything that would cause people to speculate about her or her reasons for being with William.

At the exit, Caroline and Louisa were waiting for Mr. Hurst to get the car. William noticed that Elizabeth's body tensed up when they approached.

"Are you leaving already?" Caroline simpered. Elizabeth's eyes were full of daggers. Caroline did not notice, but William did.

"Yes," was all William said.

"Well, when you're finished," and she gave a slight look at Elizabeth, "you must stop by Charles' house. It is still early. Indeed, we have not had the pleasure of your company that much while we've been here." She tried to give William a knowing look, but William did not acknowledge it.

Instead he said, "Thank you, but I must attend to Elizabeth. She is not feeling well. Excuse me." Then William turned to Elizabeth and gave her such a tender look before he put his hand lightly on the small of her back and escorted her out. If the couple had been looking, they would've noticed the rising color in Caroline's cheeks, how her mouth kept opening and closing, and that her fists were tightly clenched. It was a reaction to William's actions towards Elizabeth. Louisa was doing her best to keep her sister in check.

William noticed the color rise in Elizabeth's cheeks and the slight look of anger she gave to Caroline before they turned away from the ladies and walked out of the restaurant. William decided that something must have happened while she had been in the ladies' room.

When they got out, the chill of the coastal air hit them. Elizabeth's hands dug deeper into her coat pockets and she hugged herself tighter. William felt her shiver and his hand slid from the small of her back to around her waist. Elizabeth did not resist his hold. Instead she leaned in to him. She liked how he made her feel protected and he liked how she allowed him to take care of her.

William looked at Elizabeth, but she was looking down. Elizabeth was thinking about how he had handled the situation. There was no doubt in her mind that Caroline had intended to slight her, but she was too angry to respond. If she had, it certainly would not have been a dignified response. It had taken every ounce of her self- control to not confront her. She did not want to cause a scene because after one word said, she would not be held responsible for any actions that could possibly arise. She also reasoned that what she heard had not been intended for her to hear. How would it look if I accused Caroline of saying things that were meant to have been said in private? She thought she would make herself look worse than Caroline.

They had been driving for sometime. William had helped her in the car and they had not said a word since. He thought it would be best not to say anything until she seemed better. He looked at her and noticed that her shoulders began to relax.

He was about to say something to her when the car phone started ringing.

"Yes." His tone was harsher than he intended.

"Oh, um, Mr. Darcy. I'm sorry to call you at such an hour." It was Anne.

"What's the matter, Miss De Bourgh?" Anne was surprised that he was already annoyed and she had not even said that much.

"Well, I..."she cleared her throat, "I just wanted to ..." it was apparent that she was stalling. William shifted in his seat.

"Anne, I 'm taking Elizabeth home right now. Is this something that could wait until morning?"

"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt. I hope everything is going well." She had to ask.

William shifted in his seat again. "She is not feeling well. I don't think the food agreed with her." He stole a glance at Elizabeth and noticed she was looking out the window.

"I'm sorry to hear that. Miss Bennet, if you can hear me, I hope you will feel better soon."

Elizabeth turned to face William, "Thank you." She gave William a look that gave him some hope that maybe things would improve.

William said good night to Anne and the phone beeped, signaling that it was off. They were quiet for a moment. They were near her apartment. They both knew that if they wanted to say something, they would have to speak soon.

They started at the same time.

"Please continue," William said.

Elizabeth had a small smile, which William did not miss. "I think it is your turn this time." She said.

William hesitated before he spoke, "I have a feeling that it was not the food that you found disagreeable." Elizabeth was surprised. How did he know? She wondered.

As if he read her mind, he said, "I noticed the look you gave to Caroline as we walked out of the restaurant. Did she say something to upset you?"

Her admiration for him grew. She got the impression that he was thoughtful, but he was also observant. She thought this was a great quality. Elizabeth had told him which building she lived in, and they were soon parked in front of it.

He waited for her to speak. She started slowly, "You are right about Caroline. I don't usually let stuff like this get to me, but some of the things she said . . ." her voice trailed off.

When she looked at William, he was listening intently. She continued, "I was in one of the stalls when she came in with her sister. What she said was not intended for me to hear."

William resisted saying that he would not be surprised if that had been her intention. Instead he waited to hear what Elizabeth had to say.

"At first I thought it was quite amusing." A smile escaped from her lips. "I really did not believe that there were still people in society who cared about inconsequential things such clothes and hairstyles. But, then it became. . . ugly. I don't know how else to describe it. I never knew someone could be so vicious just because-"She stopped herself before she said you were interested in me. Instead she said, "I'm different."

William noticed that she had chosen her last words carefully. He knew what she was going to say. It was true. He was interested in her, but it was also true that if he showed any interest in anyone, Caroline would have a hand in meddling in it.

"I would not give any credit to what Caroline says. She has a way of dealing with people she feels threatened by." Elizabeth looked at him, but he was looking at the steering wheel. She smiled at the thought that perhaps Caroline felt threatened.

"Thank you." She said. When he looked up, he noticed that she looked more like her usual self. The brightness in her eyes had returned and her smile was warm. Something had stirred in William. He thought he should walk her to her door before he could not be held accountable for his actions.

"May I walk you to your door?" His eyes seemed to be conveying some type of emotion, but Elizabeth did not recognize it. She dismissed the idea and agreed with William. Then he walked around to open her door.

As she got out, their eyes met. He shut the door.

She smiled and said, "I did have a good time tonight."

"I did too." They were standing a foot apart.

"I'm sorry we missed dessert." Elizabeth said and they both laughed.

"There will be other times." He said this with such confidence that it pleased her.

"I just wish that I hadn't let Caroline's remarks affect me in such a way." She looked down.

"Caroline does have a way of affecting people." William was looking at Elizabeth. She gave a quiet laugh.

Elizabeth looked up. The brightness in her eyes was more apparent now and the color in her cheeks began to rise. She began, "I don't think that what she said is what upset me so much." She drew in her breath before she continued, "I think it was how she made me feel."

"What do you mean?" Although he was trying to concentrate on what she was saying, he could not help being attracted to the passion that was rising in her.

"She made me feel as if my situation in life was something imposed on me. That it was something I wanted to get away from." By this time Elizabeth had stood back and was gesturing with her hands while she talked. William could not help being drawn in. Elizabeth took his silence as a signal to continue.

"Every choice that I have made in my life was made with the idea that there was nothing else I wanted more." She took in her breath. Her voice conveyed passion and conviction.

"How could she know anything about that? I did not become a teacher because I wanted holidays and a summer vacation." If Elizabeth had seen the look William was giving her, she would have seen deep admiration. But she continued talking as if he was not there.

"It's a privilege to work with those kids everyday. To imply that I wanted to get away from that. . . If she could see what those kids go through everyday. . . but I suppose that would never happen . . I admit there are times when I want to strangle them, but I would not trade the feeling you get when you've connected with one of them for anything in the world. Whether it's something they've learned or something that they just wanted to share with me, it's an incredible feeling to be a part of something like that. The knowledge that I have made some kind of impression on a child is. . .words can't describe it. I can't believe that she-"She stopped because Elizabeth finally noticed William looking at her. Her cheeks were pink and she was blinked several times. She became embarrassed.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to go on like that." She looked down.

He looked at her and said, "There aren't half a dozen women I know who are so sure of themselves with such passion."

She looked up to see that he was looking at her with great admiration. "If I was so sure of myself, I would not have given Caroline's comments any credence."

He only smiled at her. She continued, "There is another reason why I was so upset."

He looked at her and she continued, "She also implied that I had no right." She checked herself, then said, "Caroline thinks that the only reason I could possibly be interested in you is for-" She stopped again before she said money, "advancing my situation in life."

His attention was drawn by the comment about having no right. What did she mean? He thought. The last part was automatically dismissed. It was obvious that she had chosen to be a teacher because she was passionate about working with children. If she was serious about advancing her situation in life, she clearly would have the determination to do so if she chose a career that would lead to that path.

He hesitated before he said, "What do you mean no right?"

She was surprised that he did not even acknowledge the part about her saying advancing my situation. She had been sure that would be a sensitive spot for him. When Elizabeth looked at him, she saw an intense, but concerned look. Was he interested in trying to get to know each other? She wondered.

She hesitated before she spoke, "She made me feel that I had no right to even try."

They were quiet for a moment. She felt that maybe she was bringing up an issue that was too serious because they just met. It was their first date, but so much seemed to have happened already. She could not deny that there was an attraction between them. That was evident, but there seemed to be a possibility of something more and she wanted to explore that possibility.

"Elizabeth," he stepped closer to her. "I can only speak for myself." He took a breath before he continued, " I would like to try."

Elizabeth smiled.

He continued, "I know we just met tonight, but it seems that we've always known each other." William was looking down. He had his hands in his pockets and his foot was gently making small circles on the ground.

Elizabeth noticed how difficult it was for him to be open like this.

"Even though it feels that way, there is still so much I do want to know about you." He paused again. He was still looking down and was now playing with the cuff of his jacket.

Then he continued, "I don't know what you're feelings are, but . . ." He took a breath before he continued, "I hope that you would consider going out with me again." When he finally looked up, he was pleased to see the look of warmth in Elizabeth's eyes.

Elizabeth felt her throat tightening and her heart beating fiercely. She had never met a man who could make her feel this way. It was so short an acquaintance, but she had gone through so many emotions this evening that it had been exhilarating. She wanted to show him that she shared the same feelings, but she did not want things to get carried away. It was only their first date, she kept reminding herself. So, she did what she thought a woman like her could do in this situation. She took a step closer to William. Then. . .

She hit him on his arm.

William was surprised. Elizabeth tagged him on his upper arm. She was surprised at how firm his arm was and her thoughts were briefly diverted. William noticed her approaching and he was not sure what to expect, but this was certainly not what he had in mind.

Elizabeth smiled and said, "I would like to try too."

William smiled and absently grabbed his arm. They were quiet for a moment. He hesitated before he spoke, "Why did you hit me?"

Elizabeth laughed and said, "You were being so sweet and kind, and I. . ." she hesitated before she said, "I don't kiss on the first date." A playful look came across her face.

William laughed and said, "Oh."

"I'm sorry if I hurt you. It was not my intention." She was still smiling.

"No, I'll be alright." He looked at her before he continued, "But usually in such cases as these a hug or a gentle squeeze of the hand is done." He could not help teasing her.

Elizabeth laughed and said, "What kind of girl do you take me for? I have to maintain some sense of propriety. I am not that easy." She said in a mock tone.

William said in a low voice, "No indeed."

She smiled and she began to walk to her door. William was observing her, but was brought out of his reverie when a realization came to him. William asked, "When will I see you again?"

"Soon." She was still walking towards her door.

William followed her. He was not used to such changes in behavior. The end of the date was what he usually dreaded the most. What usually happened was that he would have to find excuses as to why he could not come up. Then there were several more entreaties, more excuses. After several minutes like this, he would just wish to go home. Some of the women were quite determined. Fortunately for him, he was able to extricate himself from such situations.

But this was different. Here he was following her. A part of him wished she would invite him up, but he knew that would not happen. At first he thought he would at least get a confirmation for another date, but now even that was uncertain. Is she just going to walk away? He wondered.

Elizabeth decided that although William was someone that she definitely wanted to get to know, she did not want to give in so easily. It was hard to believe how everything went so well. He seemed to be everything she wanted in a man which made her suspicious. She did not usually have such a suspicious nature, but something told her not to give in too easily. She had sensed that ladies gave in rather easily in William's presence (Caroline for example) and she did not, could not live with herself if she just started falling for him right away. I am not that easy. She smiled as she thought about what she had said.

"Elizabeth." William tried not to sound so serious.

Elizabeth turned around and looked directly at him. Her eyes disarmed him.

"How soon is soon?" His eyes betrayed the same look she could not read earlier in the car.

"Perhaps tomorrow." A small smile was spreading across her face.

William stepped closer to her. "When tomorrow?" The look in his eyes began to make her skin tingle.

She looked up at him in an almost defiant way. "How about tomorrow afternoon?"

He was pleased that he would not have to wait until the next evening. A smile spread across his face and she was pleased that he did not object to so early a time.

"May I . . . call you in the morning to discuss our plans?" He was now standing directly in front of her. He was taking in her presence with his eyes, first her neck, then her chin, and then her lips. Finally his eyes found hers. Elizabeth's heart pounded at his closeness and the way he was taking her in with his eyes, but she did not reveal that she was affected in such a way.

"Yes, you may." She said it as though she were a queen granting special permission to one of her subjects. She proceeded to back away, but she kept her eyes trained on him.

"Good night." As she walked up the steps, William watched her, but then he came to another realization.

"Elizabeth?" She stopped midway up the steps.

Then she turned around with a very arched look and asked, "Yes?"

William hesitated when he saw this look and said, "I just realized I don't have your phone number." He looked at her expectantly, but she did not respond. She only had a smile on her face. It puzzled him. She does want to go out still, doesn't she? He thought.

Elizabeth did want to go out with him, but she was also sticking to her resolve from before.

When William realized that she was not going to say anything, he asked, "How will I contact you tomorrow?" A look that Elizabeth had not been able to understand before reappeared on William's countenance. She was eager to learn what it meant, but she reminded herself that she would have to wait until another time.

She walked back down the steps and stood in front of him. She smiled and said, "William," She allowed her eyes to linger on his face which she noticed made him blush. Then she continued, "I do not doubt that you are a resourceful man." She stopped again and noticed that he smiled when she said that. Then she smiled at him and said, "Finding out what is my phone number will surely be a task you're up to?" She gave him an arched smile. His eyes had widened and blinked several times, but one of the corners of his mouth slowly became turned up. He was amused.

He tried to match her playfulness, "You're right. It would be no challenge for me to find out your phone number, but-" Before he continued, he stood closer to her and looked intently into her eyes. Elizabeth appeared calm, but if William had been looking, William would have noticed how tightly she was gripping the edges of her coat.

He continued in a low voice, "I would much rather find out from you." By this time she could see that his breathing was unsteady and he noticed the fullness of her lips.

Elizabeth took a breath and said, "But that would be too easy." She pulled herself (quite reluctantly) away and began walking up the steps again.

William let out a quiet laugh. Then he said, "So, I'm supposed to find out what your phone number is?" The sound of disbelief was obvious. "What if I can't find out what it is?"

Elizabeth turned and saw that William's eyes were bright. A smile had crept across his face.

"If I don't hear from you by 10 AM, I'll assume that you were unsuccessful." She saw a look of disbelief on his face. Then another smile began to form on his face.

Then she said, "Did you think that I was joking when I said you had to prove you had honorable intentions and that you were worthy?" The arched look, which he found irresistible, returned.

William laughed again and said, "No, of course not." He had a smile that Elizabeth found quite charming. His eyes were fixed on her, and there was a playfulness that she had not noticed before. She almost gave her his phone number right then, but steeled herself.

Instead she gave him a warm smile and said, "Good night." As she turned to walk up the steps she added, "And good luck." There was playfulness in her voice. Then she disappeared behind the door, but not before she gave one last look to William.

William watched her retreating figure until it disappeared. The smile and look she gave him before she left would sustain him until they met again tomorrow. Then he thought about the task at hand. He had to call by 10 AM to make sure they would still go out. He laughed to himself. He could always just show up at her door if he could not get her number, but that was not the point. He had to prove himself to her. He could not remember a time when he had to do that for anyone. Because of his background and status, everyone just accepted him. He was not angry, annoyed, or upset. In fact, he did not know what he was feeling. The spectrum of emotions he had felt in this one evening was more than he had ever felt in any one relationship he had ever had in the past. He was not sure if it was a good or bad thing, but he suspected that it was the former. Elizabeth was no ordinary woman. He knew that he could not let the opportunity go. With a determined pace, he set off to his car. A million thoughts were going through his head, but there was one constant in his mind, I have to see her again.

Chapter 2, Part 6

Oh sister!

Elizabeth walked in to her apartment with a smile that was quite revealing of how her evening went. Jane had waited up for her. She was sitting on the couch with the TV on, but she was not really watching. Jane had been talking on the phone, but abruptly hung up when she had heard Elizabeth walking in. She turned to see Elizabeth come in. She was pleased to see that her sister was smiling and her mind seemed to be in another place.

"Did you have a good time?" Jane asked calmly, but inside she was extremely curious.

Elizabeth looked at her sister and felt mischievous. The smile disappeared and she said, "It was alright."

Jane's eyes had become wider as a look of disbelief spread across her face. Elizabeth could not bear to let her sister go on like that and she laughed and let a smile spread across her lips.

"Elizabeth, please be serious! Did you have a pleasant evening with William?" Jane gave her sister a reproachful look.

Elizabeth's smile was not as merry as the one before, but she still had one. She walked around the couch and took off her coat. Elizabeth sat next to her sister and began dishing out what happened.

"Oh, Jane! So much happened and it's only our first date!" She had slid down on the couch and was looking up at the ceiling.

Jane examined her sister with concern. Jane's eyes studied Elizabeth's face and appearance. She was looking for any discrepancies or signs that would give more insight into Elizabeth's statement. William was a gentleman, but it had been a while since either of them had been on a date and they seemed so well suited. Jane's suspicions grew.

Elizabeth noticed her sister's concern and the way she was observing her. The last time Jane had looked at her this way was the day after Elizabeth's prom in high school. Elizabeth had had a good time with her date and friends. They stayed out late, but nothing happened. Elizabeth thought she would clear any misgivings before they started.

"Not that much! Jane, give me a little credit." Elizabeth crossed her arms and gave her sister a mock hurt look.

Jane blushed. She knew her sister was responsible and would not do anything crazy, but Jane knew how attractive William was and how women were constantly falling over for him. Jane nodded to herself and realized that Elizabeth would never do that for any man, not even the charming and wealthy William Darcy.

Jane said, "Of course. I know you, but I haven't seen you this happy in quite some time."

Elizabeth looked down. Jane was right. Elizabeth could not remember the last time she felt this good. Since the death of her father and the rigors of teaching, Elizabeth had forgotten herself in it all. "I suppose you are right. I've been so caught up with work that I guess I've forgotten about myself along the way."

They both looked at each other meaningfully.

Elizabeth continued, "Thank you for tonight. It was quite. . . wonderful." She leaned over and hugged Jane.

After they embraced, Jane smiled and said, "Elizabeth, I am happy for you. I thought you and William would have a lot in common. This will certainly please Charles."

Elizabeth had forgotten to ask Jane about what happened with her date and quickly said, "Jane, I'm sorry. I didn't ask how your evening went." Elizabeth looked at her sister expectantly.

Jane looked down and smiled. Then she looked at her sister and said, "We ended up going to the Mandarin Palace that was a few blocks away from the coffee shop." Jane hesitated before she continued, "We had a very pleasant dinner. Afterwards, we decided to take a walk down the street, so that I could show him some of the shops and other restaurants since he was still unfamiliar with the area."

Elizabeth was pleased for her sister. It was obvious that Jane was very happy. "Are you going to see him again?" Elizabeth asked.

"Yes, tomorrow. I'm not sure when though. He's supposed to go out with his sisters and brother-in-law during the day." Jane did not notice Elizabeth flinch at the mention of sisters and Elizabeth decided that she would not tell Jane what happened with Caroline.

"Is that who you were on the phone with?" Elizabeth smiled at her sister.

Jane blushed and said, "Yes, but he had to go because he was receiving another call."

Elizabeth's eyes betrayed a look of surprise. The idea that the caller could have been William crossed her mind. Surely he would have waited until morning. She thought.

Jane noticed Elizabeth's surprise, but did not say anything.

Instead Elizabeth asked, "Do you know who would call Charles at this hour?"

Jane hesitated before she said, "William has been known to call when it's late," Jane noticed that Elizabeth's eyes had widened before she continued, "but if it's late he only calls if it's important."

Elizabeth laughed. Her sister was quite confused. Elizabeth started muttering, "I had just walked in the door. . . it was not even ten minutes . . ." Then a smile spread across her face. Elizabeth looked at Jane who had her brow furrowed.

Elizabeth realized that she was rambling and said, "He was given a task to complete and completing this task depended on our next date."

Jane gave her a look of disbelief. "Elizabeth, how could you? Don't you like him?"

Elizabeth laughed again. "I like him very much. That's why I have to make sure he's worthy."

Jane was in utter disbelief. "Of course he's worthy! What are you making him do?"

Elizabeth had an arched smile and said, "I'm not making him do anything. What he's doing, he's doing on his own free will."

Jane gave her sister a disapproving look.

Elizabeth continued, "We agreed to see each other tomorrow afternoon. However, he must call by 10 AM to confirm our date."

Jane's disapproval was slowly disappearing. "That does not sound too bad." She looked at Elizabeth, but noticed that she still had an arched smile.

Then Jane said, "Elizabeth, what is it that you're not telling me?" She looked at her sister more intently. "What is the task you set him to do?"

Elizabeth let out a quiet laugh before she said, "Well," she could not help smiling, "he has to call me in order to make sure we still have a date."

Jane was growing impatient with Elizabeth's evasiveness, but bore it with the appearance of calmness. "Yes, but why would he be calling Charles so late?"

"Well," she was still smiling, "perhaps he was trying to find out my phone number."

Jane's look of disbelief returned. "You didn't give it to him?"

"No," was all she said.

"You refused to give him your phone number?" The tone of disbelief was now conveyed in Jane's voice.

"I didn't refuse to give him my phone number. I merely pointed out that he was a man of resources and that he would not have any trouble finding out what it is." Elizabeth answered matter-of-factly.

Jane was too shocked to speak right away. When she collected herself, she said, "You did say that you liked him. Indeed you said you liked him very much."

"Yes," was all Elizabeth said.

"How could you treat him this way?" Jane's astonishment was no longer contained.

Elizabeth could not bear to see her sister thinking of her as a careless flirt. She decided to ease her worries.

She looked at Jane directly and said, "Jane, please don't think that I take things very lightly with William. What I know of him I like very much." Jane smiled at Elizabeth's admission and waited for her to continue.

"My impressions are that women fall very easily for him. I admit, I feel like that's what's happening to me." Jane's eyes began to brighten. Jane also noticed that Elizabeth's features were bright as she talked about William.

"I've decided that I can not let my feelings run away. If this is something that could possibly turn in to something quite meaningful, then I do not want to rush into anything. I want to get to know him." Elizabeth took her sister's hand and squeezed it.

Jane was pleased with her sister's resolve. She knew her sister had good judgment and if Elizabeth felt that this was what should be done, then she would support her.

Then Jane looked at her and said, "Yes, but Elizabeth," Jane hesitated before she continued, "Did you have to make him find out what your phone number is? I don't doubt that Charles will tell him that we live together."

"I think he will be amused." She said confidently. Then she said, "Besides, I'm sure he is up for the challenge." She had an arched look again and Jane could not help feeling sorry for what lay ahead for William.

They looked at each other and then they both laughed. Jane asked Elizabeth to tell her more about the date. Elizabeth started from the beginning in the coffee shop. Then she told Jane about her experience in Mr. Darcy's car and how she met his assistant and cousin Anne De Bourgh. When she got to the part of the restaurant, Elizabeth did not tell Jane that it was Caroline Bingley who had made all the disparaging comments about her in the ladies room. Instead, she told her it was some acquaintance of William's. She then described how sweet William had been when they said good night and how it had led to the task he now had to carry out. Elizabeth also decided to leave out the feelings of insecurity she had felt about the differences in their positions in society. After all, William never made her feel like she was anything less than an equal and this had served to lessen her insecurities.

The two sisters talked late into the night; in fact, it was well past one in the morning when they did finally go to bed. But both were satisfied with how the evening went and looked forward to what the next day would bring.

Chapter 3

"The Call"

"Louisa, what does William mean showing up with this Elizabeth Bennet?"

Elizabeth was in the stall at Fleur de Lis. She looked around, taking in her surroundings. It felt familiar, but something also felt different. She tried to peek outside of the stall through a crack between the doors. When she did, she was met with a pair of unfamiliar eyes. Elizabeth backed away, but suddenly there was a hand reaching through the crack where the eyes had appeared and now the hand tried to touch her. Suddenly there was another hand coming from under the stall. Before she knew it, there were hands coming from every crack and opening of the stall.

Elizabeth tried to get away from all the hands that were trying to grab her, but it became more difficult as more and more hands appeared.

Then she heard voices, "She's the one!"

"It's unfair!"

"Who is she?"

"How could William do this?!"

"Surely, he can't be serious?"

"Don't let her get away!"

Elizabeth became more alarmed. "Were they trying to get me because William showed some interest in me?" She wondered. She could not believe it. "Is this how things were going to be with William? Other women scrutinizing who I am whether or not I'm good enough to be with him?" An assortment of emotions was welling up from the pit of her stomach. Insecurity and anger were conflicting and the most predominant of the emotions.

At first, Elizabeth began to question her self worth. She came from a humble family of five sisters. Economy and sacrifice were familiar words in her vocabulary. When she decided to go to college, Elizabeth had to take a job while going to school to make her way. It hurt her father to see her have to work so hard.

Then just as quickly as the self-doubt had surfaced, she was overcome by a burning sensation she felt on her cheeks. She was becoming angry. "Why should I be ashamed of who I am? Why shouldn't I be good enough to be with William?" She wondered. She took a deep breath. Elizabeth knew she had to get away, but how?

Elizabeth thought about various ways she could escape. She thought about crawling under and into another stall, but hands were blocking the way. She also thought about climbing over the stall, but the moment the thought popped in her head, more hands appeared above her. There was only one solution left. She decided that she would just have to open the door and somehow make her way through. She could not just stand there and do nothing. She braced herself before opening the door.

The ladies room was like a sea of women's faces. She could not discern any of the faces individually. Whenever she tried to discern a face, however, she was met with hard, unfeeling eyes that glared at her. Elizabeth was taken aback by what she saw, but after a moment, she lifted her chin in defiance to the obstacle that lay ahead.

She only recognized one face. Caroline's face was in the back shouting, "That's her! Don't let her get away!"

As she tried to make her way out, a shower of hands came over her. The hands grabbed her at her arms. The force of being held back by so many hands overpowered Elizabeth for a moment. She was breathing heavily against the struggle of trying to break free. Instead, Elizabeth managed to wrench away from their clutches, but it was difficult getting through the crowd. Elizabeth pushed and parted her way forward to get through the sea of women. She did not make eye contact with anyone and managed to keep focused on the door ahead of her. The stronger her resolve became to get out of the ladies room, the easier it was to get past all the other women. She was only a few inches from the door. She tried with all her strength to reach for the door handle, but then suddenly a wave of hands held her back.

"You think you're going to get away with this?! Who do you think you are?" Caroline bellowed. It was as if all the hands were Caroline's appendages working to keep Elizabeth from leaving the ladies room.

Caroline's declaration and effort to hold her back enraged Elizabeth even more. She was not going to let her determine what she could and could not do. Her furor and indignation gave her the added strength she needed. With great force, Elizabeth reached out and grabbed the door handle.

After she opened the door, she found herself standing outside of the ladies room as if nothing had happened.

She looked around the restaurant and saw that everything was going on as usual. Waiters were walking by with trays and people were enjoying their meal. Elizabeth was befuddled by the normality and calmness of the scene before her. The struggle and conflict she experienced in the ladies room was still with her. She shook her head to shake off the feelings, but they would not disappear so easily.

As she approached her table, she saw that William was watching her. He was sitting back in his chair with his chin resting on his hand. He was looking at her intently. "Did he know what had happened?" She wondered.

When she reached the table, William stood up. He looked at her and said, "Are you alright?"

She hesitated before she spoke, "Yes." Elizabeth looked at William trying to make out whether or not he knew what had happened in the ladies room.

He smiled and asked, "Then are you ready?" He held his arm out for her to take.

She did not take it right away. Instead she looked at him. For some reason she felt that his question meant more than just quitting the restaurant. She noticed that his eyes were warm, but there was something hidden in them. Elizabeth wanted to know what, but before she knew what she was doing, she took his arm.

His smile grew wider and he placed his hand over hers as she took his arm. William never took his eyes off her as they exited the restaurant. She saw that Caroline was standing near the exit. Her mouth was moving and her arms were flailing about, but Elizabeth could not hear what she was saying.

They walked right passed Caroline. William did not even acknowledge her and Elizabeth felt more at ease and began to relax. They walked out in companionable silence. All the tension and frustration she had felt in the ladies room disappeared. She took one last look at William and was pleased to find that he was still looking at her. She smiled and he stopped walking to turn to her.

William reached for her face with his right hand. His other hand was on the small of her back, but she felt him drawing her nearer to him. Elizabeth could feel the warmth in his hands on her face and on her back. Her breathing became uneasy. Before she knew what she was doing, her own hands were moving up to his shoulders. At her touch, William blinked several times. She was pleased to see that he was responsive to her touch.

Their faces were inches apart when he said, "I'd like to try."

She flustered at the implications of his words, but recovered herself and said, "I'd like to try too."

Elizabeth's right hand slipped up the nape of his neck and into his hair. She could feel his breath on her lips and it was unsteady. As they drew closer, a noise was heard in the distance. It was hard to distinguish what the noise was. It startled Elizabeth, but William continued to hold her, never letting go.

She pulled away slightly and looked around. They were on her street now.

"Elizabeth!"

She looked around, but William was no longer there. Then she felt a gentle shaking. She was reminded of the ladies room and began to feel some panic.

"Elizabeth! Wake up!" Jane was trying to wake her sister up. Although Jane never said anything, she did not like the job of having to wake her sister up. Elizabeth was a deep sleeper and it took a lot of effort to wake her up.

Jane had the cordless phone in her hand and raised it to her face. "William, can you hold on a little longer? Elizabeth will be up in a few minutes."

"Oh, I can call back when she's awake. I don't want to disturb her." His voice was sincere, but he could not help feeling a little disappointed. Did you expect her to be waiting by the phone for you to call? He nodded his head as the thought went through his mind.

"No, it's no trouble at all. She can be a . . . challenge to wake up. Besides, I'm sure she would be happy to speak to you." Jane tried to reassure him.

Jane put down the phone on Elizabeth's nightstand next to her bed and returned to the task of waking her sister. Jane, however, had not muted the phone, so the task of waking Elizabeth was overheard by William.

"Elizabeth! Wake up!" She shook Elizabeth's arm.

Elizabeth mumbled, "Jane, just five more minutes." Then she turned away from Jane and snuggled deeper into the covers. However, this did not discourage Jane. She was used to this after having lived with Elizabeth all her life.

She gently pulled Elizabeth's shoulder, so that Elizabeth lay on her back. Then Jane said, "Wake up. You have a phone call."

Elizabeth did not respond.

"It's William." Jane was beginning to become annoyed, but she did not show it.

At the sound of his name, Elizabeth turned to the pillow next to her and now faced Jane again. She hugged the pillow and said, "Mmmm. . . William."

Jane giggled. William, who had heard the exchange thus far, was somewhat bewildered by the last statement. Was she still asleep? Was she dreaming of me? He nodded his head to shake off such ideas.

Jane smiled at her sister. Then she leaned closer to her and said, "Yes, William, dearest. He's on the phone."

Slowly, Elizabeth's eyes opened. Her eyelids fluttered several times before she looked up at Jane.

Jane looked meaningfully at her sister and picked up the phone from the nightstand. Jane held out the phone to her and Elizabeth took it as if it was something extremely fragile.

"How long has he been waiting?" Elizabeth managed to sputter out. Then she started smoothing her hair down and rubbing the sleep away from her eyes.

Jane had to contain her amusement, "A few minutes now. You know how difficult it is to wake you."

Elizabeth cringed. She hoped that she had not kept him waiting for very long. She watched Jane walk out and shut the door behind her. Elizabeth took a breath before she talked in to the phone.

"Hello?" Elizabeth said apprehensively.

"Good morning, Elizabeth." He sounded like he had been up for a while.

"What time is it?" She looked around her room for her clock.

William cleared his throat before he said, "It's 8:30."

Elizabeth's eyes widened. "In the morning?" The surprise in her voice was obvious.

William felt his ears turn red at the tone of Elizabeth's voice.

Elizabeth recovered herself and in a more even tone said, "I'm sorry. I'm just surprised that's all." She was hitting herself softly on the forehead.

"I just wanted to make sure you were still available this afternoon." He tried to make light of it, but then shook his head because he realized that he probably sounded desperate.

Elizabeth was excited by the thought. She liked that he was eager to go out, but did not want to betray her eagerness either.

"Let me check my schedule for today." She held the phone away and counted up to five.

William grinned. He knew she was being playful, but in spite of his confidence, a part of him still wondered if she was being serious and hoped that she was not.

She came back on the phone and said, "Let's see here . . . ah . . . I have you penciled in for this afternoon." She smiled at herself. She could not help it. She wanted to go out with him just as much as he wanted to go out with her, but she did not want to show it.

"I'm glad to hear that you were considering our date to be such a priority." He was amused.

"Well, if it makes you feel any better, I'm now writing you down in pen." Elizabeth stifled her urge to giggle.

"Good." He gave a small laugh.

There was an awkward silence before William said, "Um . . . it sounds like you're not a morning person."

Elizabeth felt her neck getting warm, "What makes you say that?" She was lying on her side, cradling the phone next to her ear.

"Well, it sounded like it took a lot of effort for Jane to wake you up."

"Normally, I don't wake up this early on Saturdays." There was a definite archness in her voice and she heard William laugh quietly. Her eyebrows furrowed as a thought popped into her head.

"How much did you hear?"

It was William's turn to be playful now. "Enough." William ran his free hand through his hair and smirked.

Elizabeth sat up quickly with alarm though she tried to hide it. "What do you mean enough?"

"Enough to know that I may have interrupted. . . a pleasant dream." William was teasing Elizabeth, but she was not going to be outdone.

"I would not say it was entirely pleasant." That was partly true. She tried to make light of it, but it was obvious she was embarrassed.

"That's not what it sounded like to me." William grinned widely as he said this.

Elizabeth became flustered. She was quiet for a moment and collected herself before she spoke, "How could it be helped? I was talking about our date with Jane before I went to sleep last night."

Her honesty took him completely by surprise. He was pleased. When he got home, he had thought a lot about their date too.

There was another awkward silence before Elizabeth spoke, "How did you get my phone number?"

William's palms had become clammy and he said, "I called Charles and asked if he knew it. I thought he would be the one to know since he set up the date."

Elizabeth was about to ask him if that was the reason why Charles had abruptly ended his call with Jane, but decided against it. She thought it was too early in their acquaintance to tease him in such a manner.

"You didn't tell me that you live with Jane. That would have made things," he stopped before he said, "easier." Then he remembered what she had said last night. I am not that easy.

"That would have made the search less exciting, don't you think?"

"I suppose."

There was another pause in their conversation.

Elizabeth was looking down at her pillow making circles on the pillowcase with her finger. William had one of his arms across his chest while the other hand was holding the phone up to his ear. Both of them were enjoying the banter in their conversation.

"What time should we meet?" William's voice was timid.

Elizabeth thought a moment, "How about at 1 o'clock?"

"Alright."

"Do you have a mitt?"

He hesitated before he asked, "A mitt?" A small smile formed on his lips. "That was something I did not pack with me."

In a mock tone, Elizabeth asked, "How could you?"

William laughed and said, "I think it's a detail that a person could easily forget when they are trying to remember other essentials for an extended trip."

Then his voice became more serious and he said, "I can get one if it's required for our date."

Elizabeth was pleased. "Well, I had an idea of what I would like to do for our date, but I am open to other things if it is too much trouble to get one."

In a playful tone, William asked, "Do you forget that I am a resourceful man?" He could hear Elizabeth laughing on the other end of the phone. "It will be no trouble at all. Besides, I am curious to find out what you have planned."

Elizabeth was thrilled that William was eager to please her. "Good. Oh, try to dress. . . athletically."

"What do you have in mind?" His curiosity increased with every word she spoke.

"You'll see."

William was now a bit nervous.

By the tone of Elizabeth's voice, William thought that it would be pointless to try and figure out what she had planned. She did not seem like she was inclined to reveal anymore.

They also decided that he would meet at her apartment and they would go on their date from there.

"What do you have planned before our date?"

"Well . . . I may get some work done, but I think what will happen is that I will go back to sleep." She let out a quiet laugh. She was being honest. Elizabeth usually slept in on Saturdays to catch up on the sleep she missed during the week.

William thought she was kidding, but then she did not say anything else. Then a teasing smile crept across his face as he said, "Well, I hope you'll have pleasant dreams."

Elizabeth blushed. "Thank you." Elizabeth's eyebrow arched as she said, "I think I will."

William could feel the back of his neck getting hotter and with his free hand, he rubbed it as if he was trying to make the feeling go away. William sheepishly smiled as he thought about how Elizabeth made him feel like a teenage boy.

They confirmed their plans again for the afternoon (William wanted to be sure they were still going out.) before they said good-bye and hung up.

Elizabeth lay on her bed again, holding the phone on her chest. She had given him another task. She smiled inwardly. She let out a sigh and looked at the phone before setting it down on the floor. She was pleased that he had called. Even though she had asked him to call by ten, she was flattered that he had called earlier than he had too.

When Jane checked in to see if everything was going well, she saw that Elizabeth was asleep again. As she went over to pick the phone up from the floor, Jane was happy to see that a smile graced her sister's face. That is a sure sign that Elizabeth is happy with how things are going. Jane thought. Elizabeth did not like getting early phone calls on Saturday mornings, but obviously she did not mind this one too much. Jane slipped quietly out of Elizabeth's room with the phone, making sure to shut the door very gently. Jane did not think it would be too difficult to wake up Elizabeth again later.

William on the other hand had a million thoughts going on in his mind. He had called Charles after his date with Elizabeth. Even though they had not gone into details (guys usually don't) like the ladies had, (Did you have a good time? So when are you going to go out again? I'm glad you like her.) but it was obvious to Charles that William had had a pleasant if not a great time with Elizabeth. This pleased Charles, not just because it meant that he would get to spend more time with Jane alone (Although this was a big part of it.), but because it meant that his friend might find the same happiness he had.

William was not sure how he felt. He had never experienced the feeling of wanting to see someone at each possible moment. It scared him a little, but he was also excited. There were so many things that he wanted to know and learn about Elizabeth, but he also felt that he should be more cautious.

"Elizabeth seems like someone I could genuinely. . ." he did not know how to complete that statement. He knew for sure that he was attracted to her, he admired her and he liked her, but love?

"It is much too soon to be thinking about love." He thought. He decided that he would just take one thing at a time. If anything, she would be a good friend. He tried to comfort himself with that idea, but deep down he felt that friendship would not be enough.

He shook his head to relieve his mind of such thoughts and remembered the new task he had to complete before his date with Elizabeth. He smiled at himself and wondered if there would always be some kind of task he would have to do before he could see her. He was not daunted though. Elizabeth was worth the challenge. He thought. Then he picked up the phone and began working on the task at hand. He laughed quietly at what Elizabeth had in store for them and looked forward to seeing her again.

Continued in Next Section