Beginning, Previous Section, Section VIII, Next Section
Part 2a: "A Quiet Day Spent Indoors"
Elizabeth stood in front of the two story Mission style house and checked the address that was scrawled on a piece of paper. I hope he doesn't think I'm desperate. I wonder if he's eager to see me?! She walked towards the well kept house. The houses near the shore had small yards and were not very big, but people lived there because of the location near the beach. If it was any other person, Elizabeth would have scoffed at the idea of spending so much money on such a small property.
Elizabeth stood at the gate and could not help admiring the house. It had a Spanish style roof and blue and white decorative tiles that accented the steps. The yard was small which did not allow for much of a garden, but a medium sized lemon tree was planted off to the side that had star jasmine planted around its base. Elizabeth took in the fragrant smell of the lemons and jasmine and smiled.
She focused her attention on getting to the front door. Elizabeth adjusted her black cardigan sweater and smoothed out her jeans. She then looked down at her white collared shirt and began to think that it was a bit too formal just for lunch. She took in a deep breath and decided to follow Jane's advice and unbuttoned the top two buttons of her shirt which allowed her white tank top to peek through. A mischievous smile spread on Elizabeth's lips as she remembered part of a conversation she had with Jane.
"Elizabeth, don't be such a ninny!"
"Jane! I don't want him to think I'm desperate."
"William knows you're a respectable woman." Jane's eyes twinkled before she said, "Besides, you have to give a man something to sustain him."
Elizabeth looked down at the mole on her right collar bone. You're a respectable woman. She repeated this mantra in her mind while her boots clicked on the tiled steps that lead to the front door.
When she reached the front door, one hand tightened on the handles of her purse and bag full of work, the other rang the door bell. She held her breath when she heard the door knob jiggle.
Elizabeth was caught off guard by William's uncharacteristic appearance. His wavy dark hair which was usually combed in place looked like he just ran his fingers through it with no other consideration. The body of the cardigan had checkered boxes with circular shapes in varying colors. His appearance made him look younger.
"Elizabeth?"
She jumped at the sound of her name. "Hi."
"Please, come in." William stepped aside and Elizabeth went into the house.
Elizabeth followed William to the kitchen and at the same time took in the surroundings. There were a few framed pictures on the wall and some famous prints, but Elizabeth did not stop to examine them. She also admired the golden colored hardwood floors. She was surprised at how cozy the house felt considering that William was a single man living by himself.
When they entered the kitchen, Elizabeth's nose was accosted by the fragrant smell of lunch.
"What are you making?" Elizabeth settled herself on a stool at the end of the counter.
"Risotto with prawns." William picked up his beer and took a sip. Then he stirred the contents of one of the pots on the stove.
"It smells delicious." Elizabeth became distracted by the sight of William leaning against the counter holding his beer. He appeared to be relaxed, but Elizabeth caught a look in his eyes that made her catch her breath. Although Elizabeth was not a beer drinker, for some reason the idea of having a beer never seemed so tempting.
"Would you like something to drink?"
I need to keep a clear head. "Some cold water would be nice."
William retrieved a bottled water from the refrigerator and a glass from the cupboard. He then moved closer to Elizabeth and poured the water into a glass. He snuck a look at Elizabeth, but did a double take when he saw some of the buttons of her shirt were undone. He saw the charming mole on her collar bone that occupied many of his dreams and he almost lost his composure at the sight of another white top underneath her shirt.
It took a moment for William to register that Elizabeth's hand was on his while he poured the water. Elizabeth turned his hand up, so that the bottle would cease pouring.
"I think the glass is full."
William looked down to see that the glass had been indeed filled and water had over flowed onto the counter. He blinked several times at the puddle that had formed around the glass.
"Is there something to wipe the counter?"
William shook his head. "Right." He went over to the sink and returned with a dish towel to wipe down the counter.
"Are you sure you don't need help with anything?" Elizabeth watched one of the pots boil over.
William abandoned the dish towel on the counter and proceeded to turn down the heat on the stove.
He cleared his throat. "No, I'll manage."
Each tried to come up with ways to ease the other person's anxiety, but every idea seemed either too inane or too provocative to talk about.
Elizabeth started, "That's an. . . interesting shirt you're wearing."
William looked down at his shirt. "It was a present from Georgiana. She thinks I dress like an old guy and thought this would be an improvement." William shoved a hand in his pocket as he took a hearty drink of his beer.
Elizabeth opened her mouth to say something, but quickly shut it. She started again, "Georgiana has good taste. I have to say, I barely recognized you when you opened the door."
"I put it on this morning so she could see it before she left with Anne today." He looked down at the beer bottle in his hand. "I hope it's not too much of a difference than what you're used to."
"Well, it was a surprise at first," Elizabeth tucked some of her hair behind her ear, "But, it was a very pleasant surprise."
William stared at Elizabeth with his mouth partly opened. His attention was soon claimed by the pots on the stove threatening to boil over again. He began stirring the contents of each pot. He had his back turned to Elizabeth.
"I like you're shirt too."
Elizabeth felt her cheeks and the back of her neck burn. She took a hearty sip of her water.
"Which brings me to my next point."
Elizabeth sat up in her seat.
"If this lunch is going to be edible for human consumption, I can't have any distractions." William looked at Elizabeth with an arched eyebrow.
Elizabeth smiled. "You're the one who invited me here."
"And I'm glad you're here." William made his way towards Elizabeth. "But, could you be persuaded to wait in another room while I finish making lunch?"
Elizabeth could not believe that she had such an affect on William, but then she observed that although his manners were reserved, his breathing was unsteady and there was a look in his eyes that she found quite inviting.
"Alright."
William took her hand and proceeded to lead her out of the kitchen.
They stood in the corridor for a moment before William asked, "Would you like to use my office to do some work?"
"That's very kind, but--" Elizabeth lost her train of thought when she caught that woody smell again from William's neck. She cleared her throat. "I would prefer to work somewhere with a TV."
William chuckled and lead her down a few carpeted steps in to the den. Elizabeth' s features brightened at the sight of a large screen TV.
He left Elizabeth standing in front of the TV in search for the remote.
"Is there something in particular that you want to watch?"
Elizabeth tugged at one of her belt loops. "There's a Dodger game on."
William smiled and surfed the channels until he found it for her. He then began to explain how to use the remote because it also controlled the stereo.
When he finished explaining how to use the remote, the only sound heard was Vin Scully calling the game. They found themselves locked in a steady gaze with the other person.
"Thank you." Elizabeth took the remote from William's hand.
"You're welcome."
They stood a moment longer looking at each other until Elizabeth spoke up.
"You should probably check on lunch."
"Oh, right." He took in Elizabeth's form before he tore himself away and returned to the kitchen.
Elizabeth sank on to the couch for support and let her purse and bag settle next to her. Various emotions ran through her, but the one that overwhelmed her the most was the feeling that perhaps it was a mistake to come over William's house. If the afternoon was going to be spent trying to fight off impetuous feelings and desires for William, she felt she was not up to the task. A part of her wanted to surrender to her desires. She somehow knew that William would not be disappointing in that respect. Another part of her knew it would be foolish to give in to such feelings, especially after knowing William for only a week.
Elizabeth searched her bag for some work to distract her mind. She decided that there was steady progress between her and William and that she did not want to ruin it by acting on desires. She had the mistake from past experiences where she allowed her desires and feelings to rule her behavior and although she had passionate memories of those experiences, there was nothing more. She wanted something more with William and she was determined to find out if it was possible by not acting on those emotions.
She sighed and then looked down at her work. She looked at the pencil in her hand. Ah! It seems I will be turning to Mr. Number Two Pencil for support. Elizabeth took a deep breath as she continued her work while her thoughts wandered from time to time to the man who was a few steps away in the kitchen.
"Mr. Number Two Pencil?"
"Yes. He's been my trusted companion for the past few days." Elizabeth cleared her throat. "I might even say that he's become a good friend."
William leaned in closer as he sat on the stool next to Elizabeth. "I don't know if I approve of such friends."
"Mr. Number Two Pencil's behavior has always been unquestionable."
"I don't doubt that Mr. Number Two Pencil's behavior has always been beyond reproach, but I must say," William's countenance became soft, "it's easy to see how another person could be envious of all the attention Mr. Number Two Pencil receives from you."
"I'm sure it's not the type of attention anyone would be willing to receive. I can be quite determined when I want something done."
"Well, I'm sure Mr. Number Two Pencil has no complaints."
"We'll see how Mr. Number Two Pencil reacts to today's work."
William turned the empty beer bottle in circles on the counter. "If you'd like, you could continue working here."
Elizabeth fought back the urge to run her fingers through his hair.
Not hearing any response from Elizabeth, William added, "You could continue watching the game in the den while you worked too." This time William looked up at Elizabeth.
"How can I refuse such an offer?" She moved towards the sink with her dishes.
"Just leave them in there. I'll take care of it."
"But, you made lunch. The least I could do is help you clean up." Elizabeth turned on the faucet and searched for a sponge.
William got up to shut off the faucet. "This is the least of your concerns at the moment." He took her hand and lead her back to the den.
"I'll clean up while you finish up your work."
Elizabeth opened her mouth to protest, but William put his hand on her shoulder which caused Elizabeth to forget what she was going to say.
In a low voice, William said, "Get as much work done as you can because when I return, Mr. Number Two Pencil will be history."
Elizabeth stared as a runner rounded third to take home plate. Vin Scully reported the Dodgers' scored another run putting them ahead by one. News like this usually caused Elizabeth to cheer or clap. However, Elizabeth continued to stare at the television in the same absent manner.
"Get as much work done as you can because when I return, Mr. Number Two Pencil will be history."
The idea of what could happen when William returned excited her, but also caused her great feelings of anxiety. She had just resolved, in that room no less, that she would not act on any impulsive feelings, yet here she was entertaining several scenarios involving William losing that cardigan.
Elizabeth groaned to herself as she shook off images now involving her, William, and the couch and focused her attention on getting some work done. Little did she know that she was being observed by William standing just outside the doorway.
He knew he should make his presence known, but Elizabeth looked as if she were engrossed in her work. Truth be told, William enjoyed the image of Elizabeth doing something mundane in his home.
Elizabeth had cast off her sweater onto the space beside her. Her right leg was tucked underneath her while her left leg dangled over the couch. She tapped her pencil on the sofa, but with her other hand she twirled a strand of hair as she read some papers on her lap.
A small mischievous smile spread across William's lips as he thought of ways to interrupt the charming scene. He shook his head, trying to shake off thoughts of getting a closer look at Elizabeth's mole on her collar bone and cleared his throat.
"Finished already?" Elizabeth looked at William in surprise.
"Yes." He sat on the ottoman next to the sofa. "I wasn't sure if I should've interrupted you. You look like you're working hard."
"Oh, well," Elizabeth shifted in her seat, "I was just looking over what I have... checking it, you know. . ." She rummaged through the papers on her lap.
William could not help feeling disappointed that Elizabeth had lots of work to do. "What is it that you're working on?"
"I was marking my grades onto these bubble sheets."
"Is there anything I can do to help?"
"I don't think so."
William leaned over from his ottoman and tried to get a look at Elizabeth's work. "What exactly is it that you're doing?"
"Well. . . I was transferring these grades," Elizabeth held up a computer printout, "onto these bubble sheets." Elizabeth then held up another stack of papers that had bubbles with students' names printed next to them.
William took the stack of bubble sheets and examined them. "But, the bubbles only have marks. They're not shaded in."
"It's easier just to mark the bubbles first because they're so many students." Elizabeth pulled out two pages that had the bubbles already shaded in. "After I mark the bubbles, I go back and shade them, so that I don't have to worry about looking back and forth from the printout to the bubble sheet."
William looked at her with doubt.
"It's the best way to do it without making a lot of mistakes."
William's brows wrinkled as he looked down at the bubble sheets. "But, it seems so time consuming."
"Yes, it is." She took back the sheets from William. "Especially if I'm distracted."
"Teachers are expected to do all of this on their own time?"
"We don't have personal assistants who take care of such tedious details."
William blinked several times at the remark.
Elizabeth bit her lower lip. "Besides, I've gotten pretty good at this. It only takes me a few hours to finish."
William sat up in his seat. "A few hours?"
"Yes, if I'm not interrupted."
"There has to be another way."
"What other way could there be? It has to be done and since I'm the teacher, I'm the one responsible for getting these grades out."
"I understand, but," William thought for a moment, "have you always done this by yourself?"
Elizabeth opened her mouth to reply, but closed it. She considered her answer for a moment before she admitted, "No."
"Did someone help you?"
Elizabeth flinched at the word help. When Jane had offered to help her, it did not seem like a big deal. In fact, Elizabeth did not think twice about it. But, now that she had to admit it to someone, William no less, help sounded like something for the weak.
"Elizabeth, did someone help you?" William asked again. He studied the struggle visible on Elizabeth's face and moved to the edge of his seat.
"I . . . It's not like I can't do this myself."
She had a challenging look in her eyes that intrigued William. "I don't doubt that you can do it yourself, I just wanted-"
"Just wanted what?"
The tops of William's ears burned. "I . . . I just wanted," he examined her face for a moment before he blurted out, "to help."
"It's alright. I can manage."
"Well, I just thought," William traced circles on the ottoman's armchair, "if I helped that maybe you won't have to work so long."
A corner of her mouth pulled up. "My presence isn't enough?"
"Actually, since I'm enjoying your presence very much," he let his eyes work their way up and down Elizabeth's form, "I must have your attention too."
He reached over to touch a strand of Elizabeth's hair. "But, I know you're also quite determined to work." His fingers slid down her arm, stopping at her elbow, drawing half circles against it.
She swallowed hard and struggled to say, "So, you want to help me?"
"Yes," and with an ardent look, William added, "But, I'm afraid it's not for benevolent reasons."
"Do you expect something in return for your services?"
"Only your undivided attention."
Elizabeth pretended to contemplate William's response. "That will have to depend on how well you do your job."
"I hope I don't disappoint."
I doubt you will. "We'll see."
She handed him some bubble sheets and a pencil. "Just darken the circles with the slash marks."
William took the materials and grabbed a magazine from the rack next to the ottoman. He placed the sheets on the magazine and began bubbling in circles.
After a few moments of working, he said, "There are a lot of bubbles."
"Uh-huh."
"Citizenship marks. . . comments . . . there seems to be at least one comment for each student. . ."
"Uh-huh."
"There."
Elizabeth, surprised by William's quickness, looked up. "You've finished one already?" She picked it up and began inspecting the sheet William had set aside.
"Wait a minute. . ."
"Is something wrong?"
"Well . . ."
He waited for her to finish.
"It's just that . . ."
"Just what?"
"Well," Elizabeth bit her lip before she said, "there are white circles in the middle of the bubbles."
"Yes." William said not quite comprehending Elizabeth's point.
"The machine has to be able to catch the reflection off from the lead used to bubble in the circles. . ." William still stared at her. "If they can't catch the reflection, then I'll have to go back and rebubble the whole thing."
"I see." Then he took back the sheet Elizabeth had inspected and began rebubbling them.
"This is serious work. A student's future all depends on how a bubble is filled in." He looked up from his work. "One mistake, and it could ruin the chances for . . ." He looked down at the sheet and read, "Shem . . . getting into a good college."
Elizabeth could not help laughing. "They do let us see the grades before they print them out in case there are any mistakes."
"Oh." After a few minutes, he gave the sheet to Elizabeth to check. "Does this meet your approval?"
As Elizabeth inspected the sheet a genuine smile spread across her lips. "Yes. It's a great improvement."
William continued working. "Do you show this kind of attention to your students when they meet your approval?"
"What do you mean?" Elizabeth asked as she continued working as well.
"Do you smile like that when you're pleased?"
"I didn't realize I smiled a certain way."
"I'm sure it provides ample motivation."
"What are you talking about?"
William thought for a moment. "Do you have any teacher's pets?"
"I don't like picking favorites."
"Alright. Are they any students who are unusually helpful?"
"Hmmm...there's Sam."
"As in Samantha or Samuel?"
"Samuel."
"Uh-huh."
"What?"
"He probably has a crush on you."
"What? Sam?" Elizabeth's mouth opened and closed, but nothing else came out.
William chuckled. "Does he stay after school?"
"Sometimes."
"He has it bad then."
"No. I can't believe that. How can you be so sure?"
"Well . . . do you know any other male figures in your life who have been unusually helpful to you lately?" William looked at her as he handed her another sheet he finished bubbling.
After a few moments, Elizabeth said, "Oh."
He smiled and continued working. "So, you see. You'll have to be more careful with that smile."
Her white collared button up shirt felt as if it were a wool sweater. She took in her breath.
"Are you alright?"
"Oh, I-uh-am thirsty."
"What would you like?"
"Water-cold." Don't loose it now.
"Alright. I'll be right back." William set aside the sheets and went to the kitchen.
When William was out of the room, Elizabeth's shoulders dropped and she flopped back against the couch. Did he just admit what I think he admitted? She scratched her head. Well, there's all these damn hints. . . She glanced at the papers William set aside and saw that three pages were already complete. At this rate will be done in no time. The thought caused Elizabeth's brow to crease.
Although she liked the fact that she would be done with work, the possibility of what would happen afterwards caused her to be anxious. Her resolve from earlier was becoming a bleak memory. The only thing that kept her in check were her doubts about how that kind of attention would be received by William. A part of her wanted to believe that he would welcome such attention, but another part, the part that dominated Elizabeth's feelings, felt foolish.
If he wants to . . . he'll have to make the first move. She did not want to come off as experienced or worse, desperate. And yet, a slow burning feeling inside of her persisted as she wondered how soft William's lips were and how they felt on-
"Here you go." William stood in front of Elizabeth holding a glass of water.
"Thank you." She took a hearty sip.
They worked in silence for some time. Although they both appeared to be concentrating on the task at hand, each were thinking of the impending end to the work.
William cleared his throat as he continued shading in bubbles. "So . . ."
"Mm-hm." Elizabeth did not look up.
"Since Georgiana and Anne are away. . . and Charles will be out with Jane . . ." William glanced at Elizabeth.
"Yeah."
"I was wondering if . . . well, I don't want to assume . . . would you like to do something later on?"
"I'd like that." She could not help grinning.
"What did I tell you about that smile?"
"Fortunately, you're not a student."
William's eyes locked on hers. "Fortunate indeed."
"You would've made it very difficult to get my job done."
William blinked several times then looked down.
I can't believe I said that out loud. Her attention was captured by that gentle look from William.
"I don't know what you mean."
Elizabeth's hand rested on the armchair of the sofa. She felt William take her hand.
"Y-You'd probably be one of those troublemakers."
"Me? A troublemaker?"
Elizabeth felt her hand being pulled, so she could not help leaning closer to William.
"My teachers have always said that I was a. . . pleasure to have in class." William released her hand and his finger tips made their way from her hair to her temple.
"Really?" Elizabeth willed her eyes to stay open and swallowed hard. "Well, you're making it very difficult to get any work done right now."
William felt the warmth emanating from Elizabeth's cheek. His thumb found its way to Elizabeth's chin and it grazed the outline of her bottom lip.
"Work?"
She laughed and looked down on the papers that had fallen from her lap. "Yes. You're incorrigible."
William glanced down at the papers strewn around Elizabeth's feet. Then he realized that he was leaning over from his ottoman towards Elizabeth, but he had drawn Elizabeth near him. His eyes widen with surprise. What am I doing? He let his hand drop and felt the back of his neck burn.
"I'm sorry." He tried to think of other things to say. I was under a spell. Right. You're just so beautiful. That's so trite.
Elizabeth sensed William's uneasiness. She leaned over and kissed his cheek. Then she returned her attention to the papers on the floor. Without looking up, Elizabeth said, "That should tie you over for a bit."
Stunned, William let Elizabeth's words sink in.
"Thank you."
Elizabeth cleared her throat. "Alright. Get back to work."
"Yes, ma'am."
Elizabeth turned back to her work, but not before shaking off the warm thoughts that had occupied her mind.
Eventually they agreed to take a walk on the beach after they finished working. Once that had been decided, they worked in companionable silence, a part of them half afraid of what would happen if one of them said anything more and what the consequences might be. The other half reveling in thoughts of what could be.
Part 2b: "A Quiet Evening Spent Indoors"
The day had turned out to be quite agreeable. After they finished working, William and Elizabeth took the suggested walk out to the beach. It was a warm, breezy day and it was late enough in the afternoon so that the sun did not beat down on them.
William let his mind drift back to how Elizabeth was reluctant about walking near the water.
Elizabeth stood at the edge as William walked in far enough so that the water would slide over the sand, just above his ankles.
"It's not too cold." William looked back at Elizabeth who had her arms crossed.
"That's nice."
"You're not scared are you?"
"Why would I be scared?" She plopped herself down on the sand next to William's shoes and took off her boots and rolled up her jeans.
"Well, I can understand why you'd be scared. Jaws was a scary movie. . . for it's time."
"I told you, I saw it when I was seven." She pushed herself up from her sandy seat and walked towards William. "After I saw that movie, I never wanted to go to the beach again, but I'm not scared anymore." She let the water touch her toes. "And, yes, I know that shark was fake."
William chuckled. "I'm glad that you've overcome your fear of the beach." He turned to the endless ocean. "It would be a shame not to partake in all this beauty." He turned back and was surprised to find Elizabeth standing at his elbow.
"I suppose." She had her arms crossed again. She left her sweater back at his house, thinking that it would be much warmer at the beach.
"Beautiful."
Elizabeth had become distracted by William's bare feet next to hers. The ripples in the water made it difficult to see them. "You wouldn't say that about the ocean after you've been attacked by a man eating shark."
"I wasn't talking about the ocean." William took in the breath taking image of Elizabeth standing next to him. Her curly hair was tousled and her cheeks had a pretty glow from the warm afternoon sun. The collar of her shirt flapped in the wind, revealing the infamous mole on her collarbone, and yet another one in the center of her chest.
"You're incorrigible."
"But, we're not working now." He made his way towards Elizabeth.
Elizabeth backed away with a playful smile on her face. "Are you expecting something in return?"
"Damn right I am." William returned the playful smile to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth gasped in mock indignation. "Just for that you'll get nothing." She turned away to walk back to her boots.
"Alright, you've forced me to take desperate measures." He jogged to catch up with Elizabeth.
"What are you talking about?"
Before Elizabeth knew what was happening, William had picked her up and carried her off. "What're you doing?"
He headed back to the water.
"You're a cruel woman." He walked into the water until it went below his knees.
"William!" Elizabeth's hold around his neck tightened. "No! Don't!" She squirmed in his arms.
Although he did not like causing Elizabeth stress, he enjoyed her reaction while he held her in his arms. "You drove me to this."
"I don't know what you're talking about." Elizabeth said with as much dignity a person could have who was going to be tossed into the ocean.
William let his eyes linger on her hair, face, and neck. "You don't?"
Elizabeth looked at William and stroked his face. She leaned closer and placed a tender kiss on his cheek. When she pulled away, the corners of their lips brushed against each other. Their breathing became unsteady.
William set Elizabeth down, making sure not to take his eyes away from hers. He reached for her face and caressed her jaw line. Then his fingers wrapped around the back of Elizabeth's neck, guiding her closer to him.
His lips almost touched hers, but the couple was splashed by two very young children running by them.
"Eww! Kissy-kissy!" The little girls ran off giggling.
A mother's voice called out, "Victoria! Christen! Come back here!!" She trotted off after the children.
When she passed the couple, she said, "I'm so sorry." Then she returned her attention to the girls.
"Victoria! Christen! You're going to get it!"
They looked in astonishment at the flurry leaving them. After a moment, the couple could not help but laugh. They moved away from each other and had trouble meeting the eyes of the other person.
William cleared his throat. "Would you like to keep walking?" He rubbed the back of his neck.
"That would be lovely." They retrieved their shoes and walked along the beach.
As they walked, William hesitated before he entwined his fingers with Elizabeth's. His heart swelled when she took his hand. After a few moments, the couple resumed their conversation and soon the interrupted moment became a distant memory.
Except now, it replayed in William's mind as they sat together in his den.
The pleasant afternoon cooled off into an enchanting evening. After they watched the sun set, they decided to go out for dinner. When they finished their dinner at a restaurant that had a patio over looking the same beach they had just walked on, they decided to rent a movie and watch it back at William's place which is what they were doing now. At least, one of them was watching the movie.
Elizabeth felt the all too familiar gaze of the man sitting next to her. "You're supposed to be watching the movie." She teased, not looking at William.
"I got distracted." William said still gazing at Elizabeth. Her head rested on the opposite arm rest of the couch. She lay across almost the entire length of it.
Elizabeth tapped William's knee with her boot. "That's no excuse. You chose this movie."
"You don't like what I've chosen?" William reached over and brought Elizabeth's feet to rest on his lap.
"Actually, it's a very funny movie." Her leg tingled at the touch of William's hand resting on it. "But, I thought you'd pay more attention because there's football in it."
"I'm listening." With a growing appreciation for jeans, he admired Elizabeth's figure.
"That's not the same as watching. Besides, I think something's going to happen with Sean and Annabelle."
William returned his attention to the movie, The Replacements. The main characters Sean Falco and Annabelle were alone in a bar. There was a definite attraction between them and this appeared to be the moment when the characters would give into that attraction.
"What's going on?"
"Shhh." Elizabeth tapped William's knee again.
The famous voices of football commentators John Madden and Pat Somerall could be heard, giving a play by play of what was happening.
Elizabeth and William laughed, amused by how Sean's actions were being dissected by the football commentators.
"What do you do here, John?"
Sean stopped at the door and turned to Anabelle.
"You go for it, Pat. You have to."
William shifted in his seat at the bold comment. That's easier said than done.
"But Falco has been shut down by this defense all afternoon."
When Sean caught Anabelle's gaze, he walked towards her.
"All it takes is just one big play to get him back in the ball game."
Anabelle walked towards him.
William held his breath and his grip tightened on Elizabeth's leg.
"And here goes Falco."
Sean leaned in and Anabelle met him with a light kiss. They looked at each other for a moment before their kisses became more passionate. The camera panned down to show that Sean dropped his hat while he embraced Anabelle closer to him.
"Falco scores!" Madden declared.
William let out the breath he had been holding with a relieved sigh. His grip loosened and his shoulders dropped.
He chuckled. "That was funny." Then he shifted in his seat as he watched the couple on the screen continue to exchange passionate kisses.
"They make it look and sound so easy though." William thought for a moment. "They don't even factor in interruptions." He waited for Elizabeth to respond, but when she did not he looked over at her.
This can't be happening. He leaned in closer to get a better look at Elizabeth. I can't believe this. William leaned back in his seat. Elizabeth had fallen asleep.
When he thought about how the day went and how much he had enjoyed being with Elizabeth, he hoped that it would end in just as pleasant a way as well. He looked over at Elizabeth again. One arm lay at her side while the other was draped across her stomach. Her dark curly hair went passed her shoulders like creeping ivy.
He checked his watch. It was past eleven in the evening. It's passed Elizabeth's bedtime. He wondered why Elizabeth had not tried to go home earlier if she was tired.
He remembered that they left the restaurant at about nine-thirty. He reasoned with himself that it was Saturday night, so most people would be out later than usual anyway.
Another part reasoned that perhaps she wanted to be with him. He shut off the movie and the TV and looked at Elizabeth for a long time. The only sound that could be heard was Elizabeth's steady breathing. The idea of spending evenings like this with Elizabeth warmed his heart.
However, how was the evening going to end? What would be a perfect ending to such a wonderful day and evening? A longing feeling overcame William. He shifted in his seat, moving up the couch, so that Elizabeth's knees were now over his lap. He hesitated before he reached over and brushed away a strand of hair on her forehead. His heart and mind conflicted between what he should do and what he wanted to do.
After a moment of serious deliberation, his mind prevailed.
"Elizabeth."
Elizabeth did not move.
William took a deep breath. "Elizabeth." He shook her knee. "It's time to go home."
Elizabeth shifted in her sleep. "No, not yet, Jane."
"No, Elizabeth it's not Jane, it's William." He said with some concern.
Elizabeth settled deeper into the cushions of the couch. "Hmm...William..."
He could not help smiling. William remembered the previous experience of the drive home from the game on their last date. There was no way to wake her up unless it involved shaking her to consciousness and that idea was not very appealing to him. There were of course other, more pleasant ways of waking up Elizabeth, but he did not dare venture in that territory.
She's going to spend the night. No big deal. Surely, it would be a mistake to send her off in this condition. She could get in an accident driving half asleep. He breathed in a cleansing breath. She'll sleep . . . in the downstairs guest room. . . of course, the guest room. Where else would she sleep? He could not help looking at Elizabeth again except this time the longing feelings had returned. Right. The guest room.
William decided to check the guest room before he brought Elizabeth to it. He worked his way back down to his spot on the couch and lifted her feet, making sure not to disturb Elizabeth. He stood up and when Elizabeth did not stir, he made his way out of the den towards the guest room.
He passed the bottom of the stairs and went through a doorway next to it. Through the doorway was a bathroom and to the left was the guest room. When he walked in the guest room, he turned on the light switch. The room had not been occupied for some time.
He surveyed the room. Colorful dried snapdragons sat in a vase on top of a small writing desk situated under the window that had white eyelet curtains that touched the floor. An antique beech wood six drawer bureau stood next to the matching writing desk. A full size bed with matching wooden head and foot boards were on William's right.
He walked over to the bed and turned down the opulent white goose down comforter and fluffed the pillows. He thought the overhead light was too bright, so he turned on the lamp next to the bed on a beech nightstand. Satisfied with the room, he made his way back to the den, switching off the overhead light on his way out.
When he returned to the den, his head snapped back at the way Elizabeth had shifted in her sleep. She had turned on to her side. One arm was propped under her head, while the other rested on her hip. What caused William's heart rate to accelerate was how one of her legs was bent at the knee in a most inviting manner. William crossed his arms, but raised one hand over his mouth.
This is going to be a long night. He thought as he took in Elizabeth's form laying in front of him. He swallowed hard as he bent down to complete the task of taking Elizabeth into the guest room.
He realized that he could not pick Elizabeth up in her current state, so he had to move her around a bit before he could take her. Careful now.
Elizabeth groaned, annoyed that she was being disturbed.
William whispered, "It's alright. I've got you." He scooped up Elizabeth in his arms and walked with ease towards the guest room.
On his way to the guest room, he could not help pausing in front of the stairs for a moment. He looked up the stairs and back at Elizabeth. He shook his head to get rid of the images of Elizabeth in quite a different room in the house.
William made it into the guest room and put Elizabeth down on the bed. But, before he could stand up, he had to remove his arm from under Elizabeth's head. He smiled at himself for repeating this mistake. He lifted her head and pulled his arm away from underneath her.
When his arm was free, he let his other hand linger for a few moments on Elizabeth's face. He bent down and kissed the apple of her cheek. When he turned away to pull the comforter over her, he realized that she still had her shoes on. His brow wrinkled.
Surely, nothing could happen if I just took off her boots. He checked Elizabeth to make sure she was sleeping. When he saw that she was still sleeping, he moved to the foot of the bed and sat next to her feet.
He lifted one foot and slid his fingers under the back of her boot. He pulled, but the boot did not slide off. He tried again with a little more force, but it still did not come off. He inspected the boot and found an inseam with a zipper.
Oh, I'll just unzip this and it should come off. He then traced the zipper with his finger, expecting to find the end of the seam just above her ankle, but he became alarmed when it went up further. He withdrew his hand from under Elizabeth's pant leg and checked to see if Elizabeth had noticed anything, but she was still in her sleeping state.
William let out a deep sigh. How high do these boots go? He ran his hand over Elizabeth's pant leg, feeling for the top of the boot. His eyebrows shot up and he swallowed hard when he discovered that the top of the boot was just above the calf of her leg. He steadied himself as he pulled up her pant leg up to her knee to reveal the entire boot.
Why are they so long? Most of it is covered up by her pants. Then an image of Elizabeth in a short skirt wearing the same boots popped in his head. He shook his head to get rid of the image.
Focus, William. Focus. He reached for the top of the zipper on the boot and began to unzip it.
The sound of unzipping Elizabeth's boots sent chills down his spine. When he reached the bottom of the boot, he was surprised by her bare leg. He ran his fingers through his dark hair before he reached under her calf and pulled off the boot. He chuckled to himself when he saw that she had a bright red sock on her foot. On an impulse, he stroked the soft skin under her leg which caused Elizabeth to stir.
"Sorry." He said and pulled down her pant leg to cover her bare skin. His eyes settled on the boot on Elizabeth's other foot.
Give me strength. He thought as he looked at Elizabeth who slept, unaware of the fervent passion she caused in him.
This time he completed the task with some diligence and less fascination. Although when he managed to get the boot off, he could not help letting his eyes linger on her bare leg longer than usual.
Sensing the caresses his mind only dared to imagine, Elizabeth began to stir again.
He whispered another apology and felt his neck burn as he pulled down her pant leg. Get a grip, William. She's asleep for goodness sake.
He took both her boots and placed them next to the quilt rack at the foot of the bed. Then he pulled the down comforter over Elizabeth. He did not dare risk another kiss because he could not guarantee that it would land somewhere other than her lips.
Elizabeth turned away and had brought the other pillow next to her, hugging it close to her. He had to get out of the room. William shut off the lamp on the stand and made his way out of the room, but not before taking one last look at Elizabeth before shutting the door.
He stood against the wall perpendicular to the door. He did not know how he was going to get through the night, knowing Elizabeth slept a few feet away from him in another room. He tore himself away from that spot and climbed the stairs, two steps at a time. He walked up to his room, hoping that morning would come soon and that a cold shower would drive away the burning sensation that occupied every part of his body.
Part 3: "Was This a Date?"
"And here goes Falco."
Sean leaned in and Anabelle met him with a light kiss. They looked at each other for a moment before their kisses became more passionate. Then the camera panned down to show that Sean dropped his hat while he embraced Anabelle closer to him.
"Falco scores!" Madden declared.
"They don't even factor in interruptions."
Elizabeth looked at William for a moment before she said, "What kind of interruptions?"
William's eyes were on her. "Well, like little girls running around, splashing water."
Elizabeth felt William's hand on her knee. He slid down the couch closer to her and she raised herself onto her elbows.
"What do you think would've happened if we weren't interrupted?" She dared him to reply with an arched eyebrow.
Before Elizabeth knew what was happening William had taken hold of her neck and drew her to his mouth. Surprised that their lips had touched, she pulled away and looked at him for a moment.
William's voice was low. "Perhaps something along those lines." He let his hand slide down from her neck and rest on the bare skin of her collarbone.
"That's all?" She meant to tease him, but there was a hint of disappointment in the tone of her voice.
"Well, there were young children running around."
"Yes, there were." She reached for his face and drew William closer to her. Her lips brushed against his. "But, there aren't any now."
"Quite right." He kissed her once. "Quite right, indeed." He kissed her again.
She submitted herself to William's passion. She had a hard time breathing, not only because of William's passionate kisses, but also because of his strong embrace. When his lips grazed her neck, she copied the same action, taking in his scent. When he ran his fingers through her hair, her fingers ran through his dark wavy hair. When he lowered her down on to the couch, he was met with no opposition. Elizabeth wrapped her arms around William's neck and surrendered her lips to his. She never knew that surrender could be so sweet.
It was morning. Finally. William sat at the foot of the bed as Elizabeth slept. She was enveloped in the comforter, so it was hard for him to tell what state she was in. He searched the folds of the opulent comforter only to find Elizabeth's dark curly hair strewn across her pillow. He ran his fingers through his hair before he cleared his throat.
"Elizabeth."
She stirred underneath the covers and all that could be heard were some faint grumblings.
"Elizabeth, it's morning." He said a bit louder.
"Jane, not now." The covers were pulled tighter over her head.
"No, it's William. It's morning."
For a moment, there was no movement, no sound from the white mountain in front of him.
Then in a muffled voice, he heard, "William?"
"Yes, you spent the night."
Elizabeth's head poked out from under the comforter. Her eyes had to adjust to the morning light and the unfamiliar surroundings. When she realized that she was indeed not in her own room and in fact William was sitting at the foot of the bed, her eyes blinked several times in disbelief.
"Wha-Where-I-I spent the night?"
William hid his amusement. "You fell asleep on the couch."
Elizabeth's mouth opened and closed several times.
"You're in the guest room."
Elizabeth, who had been resting on her elbows, struggled to sit up. She rubbed her eyes.
"I fell asleep? You mean-" She stopped herself. That was a dream?
"Yes, it was right after Sean and Anabelle kissed in the movie." William shifted in his spot. "Why?"
"I thought-Never mind."
When Elizabeth struggled to sit up, the comforter fell away from her shoulders. William looked away.
"Umm...I just came in to tell you that it's morning and breakfast is in the kitchen whenever you're ready." He turned away, getting up to make his way to the door.
William's abrupt behavior caused Elizabeth to check herself. Where's my shirt? Her white collared shirt was gone, and all that was left was her white tank top she had worn under her shirt.
"William?"
He stopped at the door, but did not turn around. "Yes?"
"What exactly happened . . . last night?"
He cleared his throat. "You fell asleep during the movie. I didn't think it'd be safe for you to drive home, so I brought you in here." His head was turned to the side, but he still did not look at her.
"Nothing else happened?"
William turned around to face her. "No."
"Oh." She looked down at her hands folded on top of the comforter. "Then where's my. . ." She looked at herself.
"I don't know." He hesitated before he said, "I only took off your boots." He felt his cheeks burn at his admission.
Elizabeth tucked some hair behind her ear. "I suppose I undressed myself last night." She spoke more to herself than to William. "Jane always said that I had that habit, but I never believed her. I mean, who undresses themselves, but doesn't remember doing it?" She looked up at William.
William shifted in his spot and rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, I-I remember when I undress myself-" He cleared his throat. "But, if you were half asleep when you did it, then that would probably explain why you don't remember."
Elizabeth laughed at herself. "Yes, I suppose that's it." She moved to get out of bed, but stopped.
William stepped closer. "What's the matter now?"
Elizabeth swallowed hard. "Well, I-" She took a deep breath. "Not only have I lost my shirt, but I seem to have lost my pants as well." She wrapped the comforter around her.
"Oh. I'm sure they're around here somewhere." He looked around the room, trying to keep his eyes off Elizabeth still on the bed.
Elizabeth felt the nape of her neck grow hot. "I can't believe this is happening." She looked around her, hoping to spot her missing clothes.
William sensed Elizabeth's discomfort. "Perhaps they're in the bathroom."
Elizabeth thought for a moment. "I'm not sure."
"I'll check."
Elizabeth let out a heavy sigh.
Great. He probably thinks I'm throwing myself at him. With determination, Elizabeth got out of the bed, wrapping the comforter around her, toga style. No doubt this is a result of that dream. . . that dream. She shook her head and walked to the other side of the room. No clothes. She walked back around to the other side. Where are my clothes? This can't be happening. She felt her make shift toga loosen and grabbed a handful of it and tightened it around her. That would be just perfect if he walked in here at the same time this falls off. She kneeled down with great effort to check under the bed.
"Ah-ha!"
"Did you find them?"
"Oh my gosh!"
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to startle you." His eyes twinkled when he apologized to Elizabeth, still kneeling on the ground.
Elizabeth drew in her breath. "It's alright." She bent down and reached under the bed and pulled out her jeans. "I don't know how they got under there."
When she stood up, she struggled to keep the comforter wrapped around her while at the same time holding on to her pants.
William could not help laughing. "Do you need help?"
"No. I think I can manage." She threw her pants on to the bed, making sure not to drop the blanket.
"Well, I brought these just in case." He set the pile at the foot of the bed. "You can wear them to breakfast if you like."
She inspected the pile William had placed on the bed. "No shirt?"
"I think the one you have on is fine." William smiled and let his eyes linger on her bare neck and collarbone.
Elizabeth's grip tightened on the comforter. "Thank you."
Realizing that the only thing between him and Elizabeth was that blanket, William made his way to the door.
"I'll be in the kitchen when you're ready to come out." His eyes lingered a little longer before he turned away and left Elizabeth by herself.
She walked over to the door in a daze and shut it. When she could not hear William's foot steps anymore, she leaned against it and sighed. Elizabeth ran her hand over her forehead then through her hair. Get a hold of yourself!
After a few moments of self reproach, she stood up with some trouble, trying to hold the comforter and walk over to the bed at the same time. She looked again at the pile William had left for her and smiled. Alright, William. Looks like I'll be wearing this to breakfast.
Elizabeth changed into his clothes, then made the bed. She placed her jeans on the foot board. I still have to find my shirt. She shook her head at her absent mindedness. Jane is not going to believe this.
Elizabeth went to freshen up in the bathroom before she went to the kitchen. She was relieved to find a little tube of toothpaste and a packaged toothbrush. She chuckled at the thought of William putting them there. She was also relieved to find a few accessories. She looked at her self in the mirror and scrunched her nose. I'm surprised he kept a straight face the entire time. She pulled her hair up in a loose bun. A few curls escaped, but she did not worry about it too much. Elizabeth checked herself one more time before she headed to the kitchen.
She stopped at the foot of the stairs when she heard voices coming from the kitchen.
Give me a kiss to build a dream on
and my imagination will drive upon that kiss.
It was Louis Armstrong's voice. It reminded her of the drive home from the baseball game, but it was a different song.
Sweetheart, I ask no more than this
a kiss to build a dream on.
"How's Georgiana? Still asleep. . .What did you guys do last night? At the library? Anne!"
Elizabeth motioned to go back to her room, but stopped when she heard her name.
"Yes, I did see Elizabeth . . . We had a very nice time yesterday."
Elizabeth felt her cheeks burn.
"Well, actually, she's still here . . . No! Anne, nothing happened . . . She fell asleep, so I put her in the guest room." William cleared his throat. "No, I slept in my own room."
Elizabeth could not help giggling. Then her attention was caught by the music in the background.
Give me a kiss before you leave me
and my imagination will feed my hungry heart.
"Yes, she's awake." He cleared his throat again. "No, she's . . . getting dressed . . . No, I didn't-Anne, just give Georgiana my love and I'll see you guys later this afternoon." Then he said good bye and hung up the phone.
Elizabeth walked to the kitchen stopping at the door way.
Leave me one thing before we part,
a kiss to build a dream on.
She stood at the doorway and observed William at the counter reading the Sunday paper. She had not noticed before how his blue long sleeve shirt had a V-neck collar that left part of his chest exposed. He wore jeans, but was bare foot.
When I'm alone, with my fancies, I'll be with you.
Weaving romances, making believe they're true.
She shook her head to get rid of images of what it would be like to touch that bare spot on William's neck.
"Good morning."
Oh, give me your lips for just a moment
and my imagination will make that moment live.
William looked up from his paper at the sound of Elizabeth's voice. He smiled at her.
"Good morning." He took in her image at the door way. She did not put her collared shirt back on over her tank top which pleased him.
Elizabeth felt her cheeks burn as she made her way to the stool across from him. She had trouble meeting his eyes.
Give me, what you alone can give
a kiss to build a dream on.**
When the music stopped, it brought William out of his daze.
"Oh." He got up from his seat and walked over to the bread box. He returned with an assortment of bagels, muffins, and breads.
"I went to the bakery this morning, but I wasn't sure what you'd like, so . . ." He placed the assortment on the counter in front of Elizabeth. Then he walked over to the refrigerator and pulled out some apple, orange, and grapefruit juice. He placed those next to the assortment of breads.
"If you want some fruit . . ." He placed some fresh green grapes and sliced cantaloupe next to the juices and added some bananas onto the counter. He looked at her, waiting for her to say something. He began to grow nervous when she made no response.
"I remember you said you don't drink coffee, but I can make some tea if you want some."
Elizabeth blinked several times at the enormous spread in front of her. "I . . ."
"Is there something else you'd like?" William asked with concern.
"Oh, no. I just . . . well, have you had breakfast already?"
"I had some coffee."
"Will you join me then?"
"Alright."
They were both quiet for a moment, looking over the various breakfast choices.
"There is a lot, isn't there?"
"Well . . . perhaps there is."
They laughed over the situation.
"I just wanted to make sure there was something you'd want." He stared at all the food before him.
"You really didn't have to go through all this trouble." Elizabeth pulled the basket of assorted breads closer to her.
"What do you usually have for breakfast?" William brought two glasses to the counter.
"Uh . . . well . . . sometimes a glass of orange juice with a slice of toast. . . other times a bowl of cereal." Elizabeth felt guilty admitting this.
"Really?" William stopped pouring the orange juice.
"Yes." Elizabeth said, looking down at the counter. "What do you usually have?"
"Coffee. Sometimes a bagel or toast with it." He looked again at all the food he bought.
"Well," Elizabeth bit her lip. "Maybe Anne and Georgiana can help eat some of this."
"Maybe."
Elizabeth picked out a plain bagel from the assortment. "Is it possible to get this toasted?"
"Of course." William took the bagel and proceeded to cut it in half and placed it in the toaster oven. "There's some spreads in the basket as well."
"Actually, do you have any butter?"
"It's in the refrigerator."
Elizabeth got up and went to the refrigerator. "Where do you keep the butter?" She searched the shelves.
"It should be in the door." He pushed down the lever to toast the bagel and turned around.
His attention was captured by Elizabeth's figure standing in front of his refrigerator. His basketball shorts were very baggy on her petite frame and his house slippers on her reminded him of clown shoes. Although it looked a bit silly, William was charmed by it. His eyes then ventured upwards. Even though Elizabeth's back faced him, he could not help being enchanted with the nape of her neck. Her hair had been put up with not much care and a few tendrils caressed her bare neck. The idea of getting a better look at the nape of her neck appealed to William very much.
"Found it!" She shut the door. "Butter knife?"
William fought off images of having mornings with Elizabeth like this everyday. "I'll get it."
Elizabeth took back her seat at the counter and set the butter down next to the bread basket.
"So. . . how early did you get up this morning?"
"Not any earlier than usual." He set a glass down of orange juice for Elizabeth and turned to pour himself one.
"If I remember correctly. . . you wake up at an obscene hour on the weekends. . . before ten o'clock, I think." She smiled before she sipped her juice.
William chuckled. "It's the time when normal people wake up." The toaster oven clicked and he turned back around to retrieve Elizabeth's bagel. "I don't know how anyone can stay in bed until ten o'clock."
"You mean you've never stayed in bed just to lay there?"
"Well . . . no." William thought for a moment. "Do you just lay there? Doing nothing?" The idea was incomprehensible to William.
"Not exactly. . ." Elizabeth picked up the butter knife and buttered her bagel as she continued, "Those few moments are actually the only real moments you have for yourself before you have to face the world. Sure, there are those moments in front of the copier or in the car driving home, but you don't really have those moments to yourself because your attention is divided with something else." She sipped her orange juice.
William had taken his seat while Elizabeth talked. "I suppose I robbed you of that this morning."
"No. It's alright." She looked down at her glass on the counter, her thumb moving back and forth on it. "Even though I didn't partake in my morning ritual," she snuck a glance at William, "the alternative was just as pleasant."
William unwrapped her hand from her glass. "It was nice knowing that you'd be here in the morning." Elizabeth was not sure if he was pulling her towards him. The motion was so subtle.
Here. The word echoed in her mind. Here is where she wanted to be. Here with William. She jumped from her seat. Here, not at home. I'm here.
Elizabeth searched the kitchen from her spot.
"What's the matter?"
"I'm still here."
"I'm very aware of that." He smiled.
Elizabeth let out a small laugh. "What I meant was that Jane doesn't know that I'm still here. She's probably worried about me."
"I forgot to tell you, she called this morning while you were asleep."
"She did?"
"Yes, I told her that you had fallen asleep and I put you in the guest room."
"Thank you." Her eyes lingered on William's face.
"You probably should call her back." William cleared his throat and took the cordless phone off the base mounted on the wall. "I'll be in my office."
"Oh, no. You don't have to leave. I'll just go into the guest room."
"Alright."
Elizabeth proceeded to walk out the kitchen, but stopped at the door. In one swift movement, Elizabeth turned back around, strode up to William, and kissed his cheek.
"Thank you for breakfast." She directed a warm smile at him before walking back to the guest room.
William sat on the stool that Elizabeth had occupied. He let out a heavy sigh and ran his fingers through his hair. He never experienced such raw emotions for any woman before. There was one time when he thought his feelings were quite taken for a particular woman, but this was nothing compared to that. Isabella was a mere tremble compared to the violence of how Elizabeth shook up every tender and passionate feeling in him. It was as if at any moment he could loose himself to her and there was nothing he could do about it. He wanted to loose himself to her. It was no longer a question of how he should keep his feelings in check, but when he could allow those feelings to be expressed.
When Elizabeth finished talking to Jane, she reemerged from the guest room dressed in her own clothing, to William's dismay, and was ready to go home. It was close to noon and Elizabeth had not been home since yesterday and she was supposed to return to William's later that afternoon to help him with dinner and to meet his sister Georgiana.
She was in her car, when she realized she had forgotten her sweater and went back to the house to retrieve it.
"I found it!" Elizabeth called out from the den. In a few minutes, she joined William in the living room.
"So, that's everything?"
"Yeah. The rest is already in the car."
"So, I'll see you later this afternoon then."
She nodded. They faltered for a few moments before Elizabeth took the initiative and went to the door. She reached out for the door knob, but her hand rested on it for some time. Then it dropped to her side.
"Is something wrong?" Elizabeth's back faced William and he could not see her expression.
She turned around to face him. It was a few minutes before she spoke.
"Was this a date?"
William looked at her before running his hand through his hair. "A date? I . . . Well, I suppose it depends on what you'd consider a date."
"Well, a date is something two people agree to do together."
William nodded in agreement.
"And usually after two people have gone on several dates and have enjoyed the other person's company. . ." Elizabeth looked down and became preoccupied with the hard wood floor.
"Yeah."
"Well . . ." Her feet shifted. "Usually after several successful dates, there's . . . the obligatory kiss."
"The obligatory kiss?" William stepped closer.
"Yes." Elizabeth shifted again as William approached. "We've gone on several dates already. I can't speak for you, but I've enjoyed them and . . ." Elizabeth was having trouble speaking because of William's closeness.
"And?"
"And I was just wondering if you enjoyed them too. Because if you did then . . . well, it's usually shown by-people usually-it's customary to-But, if you didn't then that would explain," Elizabeth cleared her throat, "why we haven't-we haven't-" Elizabeth drew in her breath, "had the obligatory kiss yet."
"I've enjoyed our dates very much." He reached out and touched a strand of hair that fell across Elizabeth's forehead.
"Oh." Elizabeth managed with some effort.
"But, I have a confession to make."
"What?"
Now William had a preoccupation with the hardwood floors. "We've already kissed."
Elizabeth blinked several times. "Well, on the face-"
"No, not just on the face." His eyes settled on her lips.
"I-I don't remember."
"I'm not surprised that you don't."
A bit miffed, Elizabeth replied, "I'd remember something like that." She looked down and hooked one of her fingers onto a belt loop. "When did it happen?"
"That night, after the game."
"When you brought me to my room?"
"No, in the car."
Elizabeth tried to remember what had happened. After a moment of reflection, she gave up.
"I was asleep most of the time, wasn't I?"
"Yes, but . . . well, do you remember what happened when we got in the car?"
"Well," Elizabeth looked up at the ceiling, then back down at the floor, then a look of recognition lit her eyes and she blushed.
"We were sitting next to each other."
"It was more like this." William strode up in front of Elizabeth, less than a foot away from her. He hesitated before he took her hand in his.
Elizabeth tilted her head up to William. She managed to say, "Right."
"Do you remember what happened next?"
She felt William's breath on her face and his voice was low. All Elizabeth could do was shake her head.
With his other hand, William reached for Elizabeth's face. He caressed her cheek.
He bent down and whispered in her ear, "Do you want to know what happened next?"
William felt Elizabeth's face brush against his, nodding in the affirmative.
He pulled away, inches from her lips. William ran his thumb along her jaw line. "You closed your eyes." Elizabeth swallowed hard and looked at William before she shut her eyes.
Before she knew it, William's lips were on hers, soft, but full of desire.
When they parted, Elizabeth opened her eyes. She saw that William's eyes were filled with desire which caused Elizabeth to catch her breath.
He said in a husky tone, "But, you didn't open your eyes afterwards."
"I fell asleep?" Her eyes widen with shock.
William nodded with a small smile.
Elizabeth looked down. "I'm so sorry."
William raised her face back up to his. "Well, you're awake now."
"Indeed I am." A brilliant smile lighted her face.
In a playful manner, William went on, "So, since we've established that we've had our obligatory kiss," William placed one hand on her hip and drew her closer to him, "and you're conscious," Elizabeth giggled, "perhaps we could . . . we could partake in a gratuitous kiss?" His other hand found its way on to Elizabeth's face.
"Just one gratuitous kiss?" She reached for his face.
He looked down. "I didn't want to be presumptuous."
Just before Elizabeth let her lips touch William's, she said, "I don't think you could ever be presumptuous in that respect."
William smiled in reply, but his reply was met with Elizabeth's lips.
There was never a time when William Darcy's presumptions were met with such eager warmth and enthusiasm.
**A Kiss to Build a Dream On sung by Louis Armstrong