Beginning, Previous Section, Section XVII, Next Section
Posted On: Friday, 13 September 2002, at 3:08 a.m.
Jane looked at William with disbelief. "She drank the whole bottle?"
He nodded. "Apparently she liked it because it didn't make her eyes water."
Charles took a sip of his coffee. Then he said, "Tom can be. . . persuasive."
William sat back in his chair. "Well, I don't think Tom is totally responsible." He reached over the table for a pastry. "Elizabeth can be quite determined once she's decided on something."
Jane held her coffee cup in her hands. "Yes. Quite determined."
Charles stood up. "Well, I hope she doesn't feel too badly this morning." He picked up his coffee cup. "I have a few phone calls to make."
Jane gave him a questioning look.
"I'm just going to check in at work and back home. Make sure Caroline hasn't turned the place upside down."
Jane smiled. "Tell her I said hi."
He kissed her on the cheek. "Alright." And he left the room.
From the bay window, Jane and William enjoyed the morning view of the vineyard that stretched out before them. After a moment, Jane said, "Thanks for looking after Elizabeth last night. I'm a bit surprised that she drank so much."
"It was no problem. And I'd be wrong not to own up to some of that."
Jane raised an eyebrow at him.
"I know you're not supposed to tell a woman what she can and can't do, but in Elizabeth's case, it's like guaranteeing a challenge."
Jane let out a small laugh.
William turned his empty cup in circles. "She told me about Frank."
At the mention of the name Frank, Jane was careful to place her cup on the table. "She did?"
"Yes. Yesterday, at the winery."
Jane let out a long sigh. "That's another surprise. Did she tell you everything?"
He nodded.
"She never told me what exactly happened." The look of surprise on William's face was not missed. "She assured me that he didn't hurt her, physically that is. And I also think she was too embarrassed to talk about it."
William digested the information. Then he said, "I was a bit surprised when she told me what happened. Surprised that she could be affected in such a way."
Jane played with the handle of her cup. "Elizabeth does come off as. . . unshakable at times."
William nodded in agreement.
"I wish could've been there for her."
He gave her a curious look. William said, "I'm sure you were nothing less than supportive."
"I went to a private college on an academic scholarship. And at that particular time, I was getting ready to spend a semester abroad in Oxford." She adjusted the place mat in front of her. "I was so wrapped up in my own affairs-"
William rested a hand on her arm. "You can't blame yourself."
She hesitated before she said, "I knew she was seeing someone and she seemed so happy. I never met Frank, but I was glad she had found someone. I was worried that when I left that she wouldn't have anyone. If I had just made the effort to find out more. . .maybe I could've helped in some way."
"Jane-"
She waved her hand. "I know." Jane leaned on the table with her elbows. "I remember that night when she came home. She stayed to talk to our mother and our sisters like usual, but later, when I went to talk to her, she. . . I'd never seen her like that before." Jane pushed the cup away from her. "She was so upset. She couldn't even tell me what happened. All she could say was that Frank didn't love her." She looked at William. "I learned that even my sister could suffer from a broken heart."
"But, she seems like she's alright now."
"For the most part she is. I'd say she compensated for it in a lot of ways," She gave him a pointed look. "Except one."
William thought for a moment. "I knew it wasn't going to be easy to convince Elizabeth to give me a chance. I have to admit, there are times when I think she really doesn't need me."
"Elizabeth is one of the few people I know who is sure of who she is and is satisfied with what she's done with her life so far, but," Jane reached over and placed her hand over his. "Some where underneath all the success and confidence is a woman."
"But, it's hard for me to believe that she's so unsure about herself in that respect."
"She's always been able to measure herself according to what she can do, what she can accomplish and given her success with her education and her career, she's proven quite a lot. But, relationships. . ."
"But, she knows I'd never hurt her, doesn't she?"
She gave him a reassuring smile. "She respects and trusts you more than you think. You're very important to her."
"Then why doesn't she-"
"Admit her true feelings?" Jane shrugged. "Maybe she's scared. Maybe she's afraid of making another mistake. Maybe she just wants to be sure."
William let out a deep breath. "It sounds like it's going to take some time before she trusts herself again."
"It might, but then again, she did tell you about Frank which is a good indication that she's trying to move on."
William nodded.
Jane looked down at her watch. "Our appointment at the vineyard is not for a couple of hours, but I think Elizabeth is going to need some help this morning getting up."
She moved to get up from her seat, but William stood up first.
"Let me. I'm partially responsible for what happened last night and I should face up to it."
Jane smiled at him. "Alright. I'm a bit relieved that you offered. Elizabeth can be difficult to wake up after a long night, but I've never had to deal with a possible hang over."
"It probably won't be that bad."
Jane shrugged. "It could go either way. Maybe you should bring her something that might help with the hang over."
"That's a good idea." William walked to the kitchen. His initial thought was to bring her coffee, but then he remembered she did not drink any. What would Elizabeth want if she's feeling hung over? He did not think she would feel up to eating right away. He thought about bringing her some juice, but that probably would be just as bad as food. Then it hit him. He opened the refrigerator door and took a bottle of water out. He poured some of it in a glass. This might be a good start.
He took the glass with him to Elizabeth's room. When he got there, he knocked. No answer. He knocked again. He heard some movement from the inside, but there was still no answer. Elizabeth had fallen asleep in the car and when they reached the cottage, he had helped her to her room. He was not sure what to expect now. He hesitated before he opened the door.
All he could he see was Elizabeth's hair spread across her pillow. The rest of her was hidden under the covers. He walked over to her and put the glass of water on the night stand.
When he sat down on the bed, she stirred, but did not wake up. "Elizabeth?"
Nothing.
"Elizabeth?"
When he did not get a response, he pulled the covers away, careful not to disturb her.
She lay on her side, but her left arm hung over the bed. She had slept in her clothes from last night, so the sleeves of his sweater had unrolled over her hands. Her hair was matted and she slept with her mouth open.
He nudged her shoulder. "Elizabeth."
"Hmm."
"It's morning. Time to wake up."
She groaned.
He shook her shoulder again with a little more force. "Elizabeth, it's time to wake up. We have to be at a vineyard in a few hours."
Elizabeth groaned and then flopped on her back. "No."
"Yes."
She talked while she yawned. "Why does. . . my head hurt?"
"You had a lot to drink last night."
Elizabeth rubbed her eyes. "Last night?"
"At the winery."
"At the winery?"
"During the wine tasting."
When Elizabeth tried to sit up, her head was met with a sharp ache. She was quick to lay back down. She rubbed her head. "Ow."
He held up the glass to her mouth. "Drink this."
She took a sip and when the cold water trickled down her throat, it felt as if it was the first time she had ever drank anything. She took the glass and tilted her head back, letting the cold water saturate her mouth and her throat. When she emptied the glass, William took it from her and put it back on the night stand.
"Why was I so thirsty?"
"That's what happens whey you drink a lot of alcohol."
Elizabeth propped herself on a pillow. "How much did I drink?"
"You finished a whole bottle."
Elizabeth's eyes fluttered open. "A whole bottle?" She struggled to get up. "Are you sure? How did that happen?"
"Apparently you found a wine you really liked and you decided not to drink anything else."
Elizabeth rested her forehead on her hands. "I remember something about good wine."
"Yes. You kept calling it that."
Elizabeth groaned. "Did anything. . . else happen?"
"I brought you home before anything else could happen."
Elizabeth look down at herself. "Isn't this what I wore last night?"
"Yes."
"Gees."
"I thought it would keep you warm."
"Thanks." She reached up to scratch her head, but found a big tangle in it. "I must look awful."
"No. You just look like you had a rough night."
She shook her head. "I'm sorry if I caused any trouble."
"You didn't."
Elizabeth tried sitting up again and this time managed to with the support of the headboard. "Did you all have breakfast already?"
"Yes."
Elizabeth scratched her head again. "So, I'm the last one to get up, again."
"We knew you needed to sleep in."
Elizabeth sighed. "That's the last time I'll ever drink wine."
"No, it's not. Next time we'll make sure to hide the Viongier."
"The what?"
"The good wine."
"Oh."
"You should probably start getting ready." He looked around her room. He saw her jeans on the floor. He looked around the room again. Then back at her. "Wait here."
"What?"
He stood up and walked out of the room. "Wait here."
Elizabeth was not sure why she had to wait there and was starting to feel the urge to use the bathroom. She swung her legs over the bed, grasping her head at the sudden movement. When her head stopped spinning, she stood up, pushing herself off of the bed.
She staggered towards the doorway and stopped there, bracing it for support. She stood there for a while, waiting for the floor to stop moving. It took her a moment to register that William was standing in the hall, staring at her with his robe in one hand.
"Something wrong?"
He blinked several times. "No. I thought. . . I thought I told you to wait for me."
She let go of the door way. "I thought I had to use the bathroom."
He tried to keep his eyes averted. "Oh."
Elizabeth gave him a curious look before she looked down at herself. She could not help laughing. "Is this the first time you've seen a woman in one of your sweaters?"
He walked towards her. "No."
"Oh, that's right. Caroline has worn this sweater."
"Yes, but not. . ."
"What?" Elizabeth's brow wrinkled and she looked down at herself again. "Oh. My pants are gone."
He chuckled and then draped his robe over her shoulders. "I'm sure if you were more like yourself this morning, you wouldn't have come out like this."
Elizabeth rested her hands on her hips, causing the robe to open. "What's wrong with the way I look?"
"Nothing." He let his eyes linger on her bare legs. "I enjoy it a lot actually, but," He reached down and closed her robe and tied it. "I don't have the right to see you this way."
Elizabeth was now fully awake, aware of the nearness of his presence. "Oh."
He looked down, holding an end of the knot he had just tied.
Elizabeth saw this, thinking that he was going to undo it.
It was a moment before he let go of it. "You should start getting ready."
She could not help feeling disappointed. "Alright."
She walked to the bathroom, reaching into the deep pockets of the silky robe. Before she shut the door, she looked at William.
"Thank you."
He smiled and then stared at the closed door. He came very close to taking that right, the right to openly admire her half clothed body. He was not sure, but he had a feeling that she would not stop him. Was it a good or bad thing? It would mean she welcomed his advances, but what would her feelings for him be? He was sure she would be responsive towards him, but would those responses be backed by any true feelings for him? He did not like the idea that if something did happen that later Elizabeth would regret it or even worse, think it was a mistake.
He shoved his hands in his pockets and walked towards the kitchen. The only way he could be sure that Elizabeth returned his feelings was if she initiated something. If anything, he knew she would not act on feelings she did not have.
In the meantime, Elizabeth was in the bathroom, staring at her reflection in the mirror. In her opinion, she looked feral. How could he be remotely attracted? She shrugged and turned on a radio on the sink to clear her thoughts.
There's times when I want something more
Someone more like me.
There's times when this dress rehearsal
Seems incomplete.
Elizabeth disrobed and took off William's sweater. There were towels in a basket, so she grabbed one and wrapped herself in it. When she went to go turn on the shower, she realized that all her toiletries were in her room. Instead of risking another encounter, she looked around the bathroom and saw that William had left some of his stuff in the bathroom. She picked up a bar of soap and inhaled it. She became light headed at the woody, but spicy fragrance. She smiled to herself, thinking William probably would not mind if she borrowed some soap and perhaps some shampoo.
But, you see the colors in me like no one else
And behind your dark glasses you're...
You're something else.
Elizabeth had vague memories of the wine tasting. She remembered walking off with Tom to try some wines from his family's winery, but after that it was a bit of a blur. William had said that he had brought her home before anything happened. When she thought about it more, she remembered leaving with William and there was something about his hands. Even though she could not remember what happened, she could not help feeling that whatever happened, it was not a mistake.
You're really lovely,
Underneath it all.
You want to love me,
Underneath it all.
She smiled to herself and walked over to the mirror and wiped off the mist that had formed on it. What had she done to deserve someone like William? Even at her worse, he still wanted her. How is that possible? She stared at herself in the mirror. She realized that it was more than an urgent wanting that she felt from him.
I'm really lucky,
Underneath it all.
You're really lovely.*
She hung her towel up and eased herself into the warm shower. Thousands of questions popped in her head that she did not know the answers to. The idea of opening one's self to another person and relying on that person completely scared her. She knew William would never hurt her, but she also could not help having doubts. Not about William, but about herself.
If she ever lost him. . . She stuck her head under the shower head, willing the memories to melt away. It was hard getting over Frank, but she did. It was the second time when she lost her father. . . She took in a deep breath. There was nothing she could do about it, but it weighed on her. Weighed on her more then anyone else knew.
Elizabeth shook her head. She was not going to dwell on it. She knew how dwelling on it only made things worse. She hurried with the rest of her shower, not wanting to keep the rest of them waiting.
"Jane, this place is lovely." Elizabeth scanned the colorful sights of the garden. "This place is different than the one we visited yesterday."
Jane nodded in agreement. "Well, there's a difference between a winery and a vineyard."
"I remember hearing that a winery gets their grapes from various vineyards."
"Some of them don't have their own vineyards."
"Or gardens either." They strolled along a lane in between some tall fox gloves and lavender. "This is perfect for a wedding."
"Yes." Jane sighed. "It would be."
Elizabeth turned to Jane. "You sound like you have doubts."
"The manager said they only allow a maximum of sixty guests on the grounds."
"Is your guest list higher than that?"
"We're not quite finished finalizing it."
Elizabeth raised an eyebrow at her. "You're not still worrying over Mom and Caroline's suggestions, are you?"
"If we go by what we have already, this place would be perfect, but. . ."
"If you add the other people Mom and Caroline want to invite, you wouldn't be able to have it here."
Jane nodded.
"I'm going to give you my opinion since that's the reason why you brought me here." Jane chuckled. Elizabeth said, "You and Charles should talk about it. If both of you want to get married here, then that's what you should do."
"But-"
Elizabeth waved her hand in the air. "No, buts. Even though the people Mom and Caroline would like to invite won't be included, it doesn't matter. Why would you or Charles want people you hardly know attending one of the most important events of your life?"
"I see your point. I think Charles and I will have to talk about this and come to a decision." She looked back at Charles and William who were talking to the guide. "In the mean time, I think I should see the other gardens that are here before I come to a final decision about this place."
"If you feel it's necessary," Elizabeth looked at a pond with lilies in it. "But, from what we've seen so far, this place is quite charming."
"It is." She smiled at her sister. "I just want to be sure."
"Right." They found a bench that was shaded by a tall Poplar tree that overlooked the pond. "See. How can you not like this place?"
Jane shook her head and Elizabeth sat on the bench. She watched a couple of ducks glide across the pond.
"While you enjoy the scenery, I'm going to go ask the guide a few questions."
"Alright."
It was not as warm as it was the day before and the shade from the tree made it cool, but comfortable. She had always envisioned getting married in a church, but an outdoor wedding was very appealing at the moment. The idea of a late afternoon ceremony with the sun setting seemed lovely. It would be a small ceremony with only her family and a few friends. A heavy feeling overcame her when she remembered there would be one person who would not be in attendance.
"Enjoying the view?"
Elizabeth looked up and was met with a smile from William. "Uh. . . yes. This place is very nice."
William sat down next to her. "Charles is very excited about having the wedding here."
"He is? Good. I think Jane likes this place, but she's worried about not being able to invite as many people as they were planning."
"That was one of Charles' concerns, he seems determined to have this place, so I think the guest count will not be an issue."
"I told Jane she shouldn't have to worry about that too."
They were silent, enjoying the calm scene and each other's company.
Then William asked, "What were you thinking about before I interrupted you?"
"I was thinking about if I'd have the same trouble with guests."
"And?"
She brushed a leaf off the empty spot in between them. "I don't think it'll be a problem." She looked at the ducks on the pond. "I. . . was also thinking about how my father wouldn't be there."
"I understand."
Elizabeth looked at him. Did he really understand? She realized that he probably did because his mother would not be there for him either. "I always thought. . ."
"Me too."
"There's so much he'll miss."
William took her hand. "I'm sure he'd be proud of you."
"Maybe."
William looked at her. He recognized the troubled expression. Not wanting her to dwell on the loss, he said, "My mother liked The Sonnets."
Elizabeth gave him a blank expression.
"Shakespeare."
"Right."
"They were her favorite. She especially liked them when they were read aloud."
Elizabeth smiled. She said, "Is that why you read that one poem to me so well?"
William's brow wrinkled. Then he remembered that night in the coffee shop when he first met her. His features relaxed. "I wouldn't say I'm good at it. I've certainly had a lot of practice."
Elizabeth turned to face William. "Did you read to her a lot?"
"No. It was my father, but when my mother got sick. . ."
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to-"
"It's alright." He turned to her. "He tried to be there as much as he could, but as her illness progressed, it became difficult for him to. . . He loved her, but I think it was too hard for him to watch her. . ."
Elizabeth covered his hand that was already on one of her own.
"Since he had a hard time staying with her, I'd come home right after school to be with my mother. Georgiana was too young at the time."
"How old were you?"
"I was seventeen."
"Is that why. . ."
He nodded. "I quit the football team to be with her."
She squeezed his hand.
"I couldn't play knowing she was sick."
"Of course not."
"She didn't want to be hospitalized and she didn't have the strength to go through chemo. She managed to hang on until after I graduated." He was looking out at the pond, but his eyes did not settle on anything particular. "Sometimes I think she did that so it wouldn't be remembered as a sad time."
"At least you got to spend some time with her before she passed away."
William withdrew his hand from her and stood up. He ran his hand through his hair. "I wouldn't wish that on anyone else."
Elizabeth looked at him with disbelief.
"My father's grief, my sister, a child at the time, asking why mommy couldn't comb her hair," He shook his head. "No, I wouldn't wish that on anyone."
Elizabeth looked away. "I'm sorry. I had no idea." Her voice was almost a whisper. "Would you have preferred it if it happened quickly?"
"I don't know." He tossed a pebble into the pond. "It probably wouldn't have made a difference how it happened, it still would've hurt." When he did not hear a response, he turned around and was surprised to see tears in her eyes. He went to her and took one of her hands. "What is it?"
She blinked back the tears that wanted to fall. "You're right."
"About what?"
"It'd hurt no matter how it happened."
"Yes, but. . . I also know how lucky I am to have had that time with her." He said the next comment with some care. "I know some people don't even get that chance." When he saw a tear slide down her cheek, he knew. "I'm so sorry."
Elizabeth shook her head. "But, I had a chance to be with him, and I chose not to be."
"What happened?"
"We had gotten in a fight. He found out that I had been taking out loans, so I could finish school. I put him down as a cosigner and somehow one of my statements got sent to his address instead of mine." She looked at the ducks gliding on top of the water. "He wanted to help me, help pay for the loans, but I said no." She bit her lower lip. "I said I had everything under control and that I didn't need his help, but he kept insisting and I kept refusing. Then he asked me why I hadn't come to him before." She let out a heavy sigh. "I told him that I've been taking care of myself this whole time, why would I need him now." She felt the tears spill down her cheek. "Then I walked out, but I saw the look on his face." She wiped her cheeks. "I hurt him."
William pulled her into his arms. "I'm sure he knew you didn't mean to hurt him."
She shook her head. "But, at the time I wanted to. A part of me hated how he could be so indifferent towards us. Another part of me didn't want his help." She took a deep breath. "I didn't want him to think that I couldn't take care of myself."
William brushed her hair back from her face. "I'm sure he knew you could."
She shrugged. "I guess so."
"When you talked to him later, you learned that he only wanted to help, right?"
She swallowed hard, fighting back tears. "We had gotten in arguments before, but this one was the longest we had gone without talking to each other." She pulled away from his embrace and looked at him. "We were both so stubborn about it. He wouldn't talk to me because I refused his help and he felt he was right. I wouldn't talk to him because I didn't need his help and I thought I was right." She looked down and traced the dark grain on the wooden bench. "If I had known those would be the last words I would ever say to my father, I would've..."
Elizabeth blinked back her tears. "When my mother called, I thought she was calling again to try to get us to reconcile. When she said he had had a stroke and he passed away. . ." She looked up at him. "I didn't know until afterwards that he had problems with his blood pressure. I know it wasn't my fault-"
"Of course it wasn't."
"But, what if I caused it? I probably caused him to worry so much."
"But, it wouldn't have caused the stroke."
She looked at him for a long time. "I don't think I could survive losing another person I loved."
He held her hand. "You're stronger than you realize."
She let herself be taken into his arms again. She did not think she was, but when he held her she felt she could be.
It was sometime before Charles came looking for them. When they heard him approach, they parted from each other.
"You've been here the whole time?"
William looked at his friend. "Yes."
"Well, the wine tasting is going to start in a few minutes."
William heard a soft groan come from Elizabeth. "I think Elizabeth is still recovering from the one last night."
She gave Charles a sheepish look. "I think I've had my share of wine for a long time."
Charles chuckled. He said, "I understand. So. . ."
William looked at Elizabeth. "Would you like to go back to the cottage?"
"Well . . . I. . . that sounds good, but if you all want to stay for the wine tasting-"
William stood up. "I can take Elizabeth to the cottage while you and Jane stay for the wine tasting. I can come back to pick you up when you two are done."
Elizabeth and Charles protested. William held his hands in the air. "It'll be alright." He looked at Charles. "Let Jane know what's going on." Then he turned to Elizabeth and held out his hand. "C'mon."
There was nothing either of them could do, but follow William's orders. Charles shook his head while Elizabeth and William walked off. "I think Jane will be pleased to hear about this."
"Is there anything I can get you?"
Elizabeth shifted in her spot. "No. I don't think so." She looked around the cozy living room of the cottage. Then she said, "I'd like to take a nap."
"Oh. Alright." William waited for her to leave, but she gave him an expectant look. "Did you want me to get you something before you go up to your room?"
"No." She took a step towards him. "Will you sit with me?"
He hesitated. "Uh. . . Sure."
She took his hand and lead him towards her room. When they got inside her room, Elizabeth shrugged out of her sweater. Then she sat at the edge of the bed and took off her shoes.
William stood in the doorway, looking for a place to sit. There was a chair on the other side of the room.
Elizabeth nestled onto her pillow. When she was comfortable, she looked for William. He was sitting in a chair that was off to the left side of the bed.
"What are you doing?"
"I. . . I thought you said you wanted me to sit with you."
"Yes, but why are you sitting over there?"
He shifted in his seat. "This was the only chair in here."
"But, you're so far."
He picked up his chair and moved it closer to the bed. "Is this better?"
She looked at the empty spot next to her on the bed. "Actually, I thought you could sit closer."
"There?"
"Just to sit."
He hesitated before he got up and sat next to her. William turned and saw Elizabeth staring up at him. "I thought you were going to take a nap."
"I am." She settled onto her pillow again. "Can you tell me more about your mother? I mean, is that alright?"
William leaned back against the head board. "Yes." He moved around until his head rested on the headboard. "When I was a child, whenever I'd come home from school on rainy days, she'd have some hot chocolate ready. I'd put my wet shoes next to the fireplace and then she'd wrap me in a warmed blanket."
He checked on Elizabeth and she still had her eyes opened. "When I made the football team, she made this cake, Mrs. Reynolds helped her. It was a big chocolate football." He could not help smiling. "Georgiana said she was going to try out for the football team, so she could get a cake just like that. The expression on my mom's face was priceless."
This time when he looked at Elizabeth her eyes were closed. He reached down and smoothed down her curls. "I don't think she ever liked Isabella. She never said she didn't, but I always had this feeling. I'm glad she wasn't around when I started dating her." He heard Elizabeth's steady breathing, signaling she had fallen asleep. "I wish you could've met my mom."
He continued watching her, tracing the outlines of her face. He did not know what to expect this weekend. He had hoped there would be some progress between them, but this was more then what he had hoped. He wondered if they had not come on this trip if she would have opened up to him the way she did. He was sure she would have, but it probably would have taken more time.
I'm going to have to figure out how to pay back Charles and Jane.
While thinking of ways to repay his best friend, he drifted off to sleep next to Elizabeth.
William felt something moving next to him. He tried to get up, but he could not move. He opened his eyes and it took him a moment to realize the reason why he could not move was because Elizabeth's head rested on his chest while his arms were wrapped around her.
There was that movement again. He looked around and realized it was coming from his pocket. My phone. He lifted his hip, so he could get his cell phone, but was careful not to disturb Elizabeth. He flipped his phone open. There was a voicemail message from Charles. He checked the time. It had been a couple of hours since they got back to the cottage.
He looked down at Elizabeth. He smiled at how she had found her way into his arms. He held his phone, listening to Charles' message.
"Will! This is Charles. Don't worry about picking us up. We've made some friends at the wine tasting and now we're going out for dinner. I'm afraid you and Elizabeth will have to fend for yourselves. See you later tonight."
William ended the call and put the phone back in his pocket. He was getting hungry and he was sure when Elizabeth woke up, she would be too. Even though he was quite reluctant, to do it, he lifted Elizabeth out of his arms and put her down on her side of the bed. He kissed the top of her head before he got up and left the room to figure out what to do about dinner.
Elizabeth was awakened by a savory aroma. She reached over for William, but there was nothing there. She opened her eyes and saw that he was gone. The aroma was more pungent and she realized that someone was cooking.
She stood up and stretched. Then she went to the bathroom to freshen up. When she finished and was more aware of her surroundings, Elizabeth followed her nose and went to the kitchen.
William was bent over the counter, chopping something. The oven was on and she saw a chicken inside. She inhaled the smell. Rosemary. "Hey."
William turned around. "Hey. Do you feel any better?"
She nodded. "Yes. A lot better. I didn't realize how tired I was."
"We've been busy the last two days."
She walked over to William. "Yeah."
William walked passed her to check on the chicken. "Charles called and said they made some friends at the wine tasting." He went to the refrigerator and pulled out some greens. "So, it's just me and you for dinner tonight."
Elizabeth looked around the kitchen. It looked like William had taken care of everything. "You know, if you keep taking care of me like this, I'll become dependent on you."
He shrugged. "You know you can take care of yourself. You only let me help you sometimes because you know it pleases me."
Elizabeth did not know what to say. William approached her and she reached back for the counter for support.
"Uh. . . Elizabeth?"
Her grip on the counter was firm. "Yes?"
"I need. . . You're. . . blocking my way."
She blinked. "What?"
"I need to get to the potatoes behind you."
"Oh." She moved and walked towards the other side of the kitchen. What did I expect? "Is there anything I can do to help?"
"I just rinsed off those greens. You can tear them up for the salad."
"Alright." She worked in silence. A lot happened the past two days, but what did it all mean? When she woke up, she felt like a great burden had been lifted off her shoulders. But, now something was different. She was not sure what though.
"Do you think you're up for wine with dinner?"
Elizabeth looked up. "Uh. . . yeah."
"There's some in the fridge."
Elizabeth opened the refrigerator. She looked at William. "Viognier?"
"Tom had it sent over. He was very pleased that you liked it so much."
Elizabeth felt her cheeks burn. "Well, I'll try to curb my enthusiasm this time."
"Don't feel like you have to hold back." He looked up at her. "It'll just be me and you."
"Right." She turned around to get some glasses from the cupboard. Just me and him. Just us. Alone. She closed her eyes for a minute. Great.
She put the glasses on the counter, afraid that they'd slip from her hands if she held them for too long. "Is there a wine opener?"
"There's one in that drawer in front of you."
Elizabeth opened it and took out the wine opener. She held the bottle in one hand and the wine opener in the other. "Uh. . ."
William smiled. He said, "Haven't opened a lot of wine bottles?"
"Not really."
He took the wine and the opener from her. "Why don't you finish up the salad."
"Alright."
He pulled out the cork. "Would you like some now or would you like to have it with dinner?"
"It'd probably be best if I had it with dinner."
"That's a good idea."
Elizabeth did not miss the knowing smile on his lips. "Was I really that bad last night?"
"No, of course not." He said, "Well, Tom is perhaps a little traumatized, but he can afford good therapy."
"I was not that bad."
"No, of course not, but. . . I had to draw the line though when you wanted to dance on top of the tables."
Elizabeth laughed. "I've never danced on tables before."
"That's not what you told me."
She threw a leaf from the salad at him.
He shrugged it off. "When we got back here, you insisted on showing me."
Elizabeth gasped. "I did not!"
"Of course I couldn't let you, but you're quite persuasive when you're determined."
Elizabeth threw her head back and let out a hearty laugh. "You're incorrigible."
"I'm not the one who likes dancing on top of tables."
She threw a dish towel at him. "And here I thought you were making dinner out of the kindness of your heart. I'm sure it's just an elaborate plan to get me drunk so I can provide you with cheap entertainment."
"You're right." He hesitated before he said, "If you must know. Caroline was unavailable."
Elizabeth gasped again. "I'll have you know, I'd be a far more superior table dancer than her."
With a small smile, he said, "I'm sure you would be."
She shook her head. "That doesn't mean I'd do it."
"Of course not."
They returned their attention to making dinner. After a few moments, Elizabeth started laughing.
"What's so funny?"
"You won't think it's funny."
"Why?"
"Well, I just had this mental picture of Caroline dressed up in stripper clothes, dancing on top of a table." She burst into a fit of laughter.
"You're right. That wasn't funny." He returned his attention to the potatoes. "That was scary."
She laughed harder. She managed a, "Sorry."
"You should be. Now I'm going to have that scary image in my head for the rest of the evening."
"I'm sure you could think of something else."
"Like what?"
"Instead of Caroline, you could think of me."
William looked up from his work for a minute. "No." He continued working.
She had an indignant tone. "Why?"
"Well, because. . ."
A playful smile spread across her lips. "Because you like orange so much?"
William cringed and threw the dish towel back at her. "That's sick."
They continued to banter like this for the rest of the evening. When Jane and Charles returned later, it looked like they had just finished dinner. In the kitchen, they found Elizabeth laughing with tears in her eyes and William laughing just as hard.
They stayed up talking to them about the wine tasting until it was time for bed. There was a noted difference in the couple's behavior, but Jane and Charles did not know how it happened.
They wanted to get a head start on the drive back, so they decided that they would leave as early as they could. Everyone was in their room, packing and getting ready for bed. Elizabeth sorted her clothes, folding them, arranging them so she could close her luggage. When she had everything in place, she saw that she still had William's robe and his sweater. She checked to see if he was still in the bathroom, but it was empty and his bedroom door was shut.
She crossed the hall and knocked on his door.
"Come in."
She opened it. "I just came to-Oh. Sorry."
"No. It's alright." William walked over to her, wearing only a towel around his waist.
She held up his robe and his sweater. "I-These."
"You could borrow the sweater. I know how you get cold at night."
She tried to ignore how some wet curls stuck to his forehead. "Cold?"
"And you might need the robe for tomorrow morning."
Elizabeth blinked several times.
"In the morning, when you're getting ready."
"Right. Of course. That's what I was thinking too."
He took a step towards her. "Are you alright?"
"Yes. Why wouldn't I be?" His fresh shower smell overwhelmed her. "I should go. You're-No clothes." She shook her head. "I have to go."
She turned on her heel.
William called after her. "Good night."
She shut the door behind her. She didn't even say good night to him. She slapped her hand on her forehead. What the hell's wrong with me?! She threw herself on her bed. William's stuff lay next to her. She covered her face with her hands. What am I going to do? She could not deny that she wanted him, but things were different now.
The last two days, she confided in him things that even Jane did not know the details of. He was a good friend, but she felt there was something more. Did she want something more?
She took William's robe that lay next to her and smelled the collar. Elizabeth muttered, You are so sad.
What was it she was feeling? Even though he was in the same house, across the hall, she wanted to be near him. Even though she knew she would see him in the morning, it felt like forever until then. What's happening to me? She put on William's sweater, slid into bed, and turned off the lamp light.
She lay in the dark, thinking about William and the last two days. Elizabeth was sure something had changed. Was it William? She did not think so. He was still the same thoughtful, and generous man she had always known. However, there was something different about the way she felt about him.
Elizabeth knew that it was special for a woman to have a person like William in her life. She treasured their friendship and she was grateful to know a man like him. He would never hurt or leave her. William would do everything in his power to make her happy.
Although she drifted off into sleep, unable to come to any final conclusions, it was a peaceful slumber. She no longer worried about the difficulties that might lay ahead, but instead dreamed about the sweet possibilities of what could happen.
* "Underneath It All" by No Doubt from Rock Steady
Posted On: Friday, 20 September 2002, at 1:48 a.m.
Elizabeth could not believe how Monday flew by. When they got home late that evening, there was a message from their mother saying there was going to be an engagement party the next day at The Lodge for Jane and Charles. Surprised by the message, Jane called back to confirm and found out it was true. In fact, their mother was busy the whole weekend putting it together.
It was a restless night and an even more nerve wracking Tuesday morning. Their mother had called every other minute to ask a question about what Jane was going to wear or to relay some inconsequential detail about the food.
To escape their mother's attention, Elizabeth and Jane decided to go to the beauty salon. Jane was in much need of some pampering and Elizabeth decided to go with her for moral support and partly because she wanted to look good that evening for a certain gentleman.
Both ladies were getting a pedicure and waiting for their stylists to start on their hair.
"Elizabeth, thanks for coming with me today. I really needed some down time before tonight."
"It's alright. I just don't understand why she sprung this on you all of a sudden."
"She said that everyone was eager to meet Charles."
Elizabeth rolled her eyes. "Right."
Jane shrugged. "It's at The Lodge, so I don't think it'll be a big deal."
"It was really nice of Mr. Lucas to offer his place for tonight. I'm sure he'll lose out on some money."
"When I talked to him on the phone, he said our mother picked a good night because business is usually slow on Tuesday evenings. He also said that Dad was a good friend."
Elizabeth smiled. "Mr. Lucas is such a nice man."
Jane nodded.
After a minute, Elizabeth asked, "Can I ask you something?"
"Sure."
Elizabeth thought for a moment, choosing the right words. "Were you nervous when Charles met mom for the first time?"
"Yes. I wasn't sure what to expect. I know Mom means well and all, but she can be. . . aggressive sometimes."
Elizabeth laughed. "Yeah, but she didn't seem so bad."
"No. She wasn't, but Caroline will be there tonight."
Elizabeth turned to Jane. "Are you serious?"
"Yes. Some how Mom got a hold of her and she's flying in today."
Elizabeth sank lower in her seat. "Oh, no."
"I don't think it'll be that bad."
"You're probably right, but. . ."
Jane looked at her sister. "Are you worried about William?"
"Well, it's going to be hard enough since he'll be meeting Mom for the first time, and I'm sure it won't be any easier with Caroline there."
"Oh, that's right." Jane thought for a moment. "It'll be fine."
"I hope so."
"Just trust me."
Elizabeth looked at her sister with a suspicious expression. "What are you going to do?"
"Me? Nothing." She picked up a magazine and started flipping through it. "When we get home, remind me to call Marianne."
"Jane!"
"What?" She did not look up from her magazine. "I'm sure she'll look forward to meeting everyone."
Elizabeth shook her head.
"Have you heard from William?"
"Not today."
Jane looked at her sister with some concern.
"Oh, he's busy getting ready for tomorrow."
"What's tomorrow?"
"He's leaving."
Jane sat up in her chair. "What? Why?"
"Don't worry. He had made these plans a long time ago."
"What are they?"
"He has a business deal to finalize and he's supposed to help Georgiana move into her dorm."
"Oh." Jane looked at her, trying to find any signs of disappointment. "You seem alright with that."
Elizabeth shrugged. "He did have a life before he met me."
"I know, but. . . you're not disappointed he's leaving?"
"Well, it's not like he'll be leaving for good. He's coming back Monday. Plus, he's going to see his father and his sister."
"Yeah, but he'll be gone."
"He's been away from me for a longer period before."
"I know, but. . . you're not going to miss him?"
Elizabeth hesitated. "Of course I will."
Jane grinned. "Good."
Elizabeth rolled her eyes. "Don't look at me like that."
"What?"
"That 'I told you so' look."
"I wasn't. I'm just happy for you that's all."
"Sure."
"And well, I told you so."
"Jane."
"I'm sorry, but I've never seen you so happy before."
Elizabeth shifted in her seat. "What are you talking about?"
"The last few months when you were here and he was back there, you were miserable."
"I was not."
"Yes, you were."
Elizabeth sighed. "I wasn't. Besides, I don't think there's a big difference in my behavior."
Jane snorted.
"Maybe a little."
"A little?"
She let out a short breath. "I'm doing the best that I can Jane."
Jane gave her sister an apologetic look. "You're right."
Elizabeth felt bad for jumping on her sister. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be so defensive."
"It's alright. I just want you to be happy."
"I know."
Wanting to lighten the mood, Jane asked, "Are you going to help out at the bar tonight?"
"Of course. I'm going to give my tips to Mr. Lucas."
"That's nice of you."
"Well, it's the least we could do since he's offering his place to us."
"Just try not to charm all the money from the men tonight."
Elizabeth laughed. "You know those days are behind me."
William tried to shake off the anxiety and nervousness that was creeping into his mood. It did not help that he was running late either. When he had returned from Napa, there was a feeling of serenity in his demeanor. However, when he arrived home, there were several messages waiting for him, all from his family.
There was one message from Georgiana reminding him of his commitment to help her move to her dorm this coming weekend. One from Anne and his father both reminding him of the Jones deal that he had been overseeing. He had wanted to be notified when the deal was coming to a close, so that he could be there. To his dismay, that deal was coming to a close Thursday.
After he had called back everyone, assuring them he would follow through with his promises, Charles had called him in the morning to tell him about the engagement party in the evening at The Lodge.
He wished he had never left Napa.
He had wanted to spend his day with Elizabeth. However, due to his plans for the weekend, he had to repack and make sure his flight reservations were in order. He also had to figure out what to wear for the engagement party.
He circled the block for the third time. Even though it was a Tuesday night, parking in the evening on Main street was always a problem. He wished he had Silvester drive him. At least then, he would already be inside.
He finally found a spot to park that was almost a block away from The Lodge. Disregarding the fact that it probably would have been faster if he had walked from home, William parked the car and had to stop himself from running down the block.
He thought about the possibility that he might be able to spend some time alone with Elizabeth before he had to leave the next day. He did not think he would be able to get back until Monday and the thought of not being able to see her for the next six days disturbed him. They had made good progress and it upset him that there would have to be a pause in the middle of it.
When he reached The Lodge, he saw that there were already a lot of people inside. He hoped that he could slip in, so that no one would notice how late he was. When he opened the door, he was accosted by the boisterous singing that accompanied a lively big band tune that played from the jukebox.
"William! You made it!"
He tore his eyes away from the crowd that gathered at the bar. "I'm sorry I'm late, Charles. Parking was bad."
"No need to apologize. You're here now and that's what matters. Why don't we go to the bar and get you a drink."
William took another look at the crowd blocking the bar. It mostly consisted of men, singing with a glass in one hand. "I don't think-"
"It'll be fine." Charles took his friend by the arm. "Besides, aren't you a bit curious as to why they're all attracted to the bar?"
William did not respond. Instead, he let his friend direct him through the throng of admirers.
Marianne took out a frosted pint glass from the refrigerator. "This is so much fun. You did this while you were going to school?"
Elizabeth pulled down on the beer tap, tilting the pint glass, so that it did not get filled up with foam. "Yeah. I started out waiting tables and one time one of the bartenders got sick, so I volunteered to help out." She gave the beer to a man in his mid-twenties who had a smile on his face.
"How much do I owe you?"
Elizabeth flashed him a smile. "Three bucks."
He gave her a five. "Are you working the bar all night?"
She handed him his change, but he waved at her and shook his head. Elizabeth smiled. She said, "No, but I'm waiting for a certain person to show up."
He raised his eyebrow. "Well, I hope that person gets here soon for your sake." He held up the glass and said, "Cheers." And walked away.
Marianne stood near Elizabeth's elbow. "How do you do that?"
"Do what?"
"I've watched you since we started working back here and you've managed to somehow get a tip from each person you've served."
She shrugged. "I guess it's a gift."
"Or something."
The gentleman Elizabeth just served led some other men into a song.
L is for the way you Look at me.
O is for the only One I see.
V is Very, Very extraordinary.
E is Even more than anyone that you adore.
Marianne inspected the handsome man who looked their way while he sang. "I didn't hear his whole name, something Willoughby."
Elizabeth shook her head. "He's attractive, but I wouldn't put too much stock into it."
"Why?"
Elizabeth put the two dollars into a jar at the edge of the counter. "He's a mediocre tipper."
"What does that have to do with anything?"
"You'll see."
Marianne shrugged and sung along with the gentlemen.
And Love is all that I can give to you.
Love is more than just a game for two.
Two in Love can make it.
"Elizabeth, do you think you can get my friend here a drink?"
She looked up and saw Charles with William standing next to him. She had never seen him in a black collared shirt before. Elizabeth felt herself staring, so she shook her head. "Uh. . . Yeah. Of course."
"I'll have whatever Charles is having."
"Alright." Elizabeth took out a frosty pint and proceeded to fill it up.
Charles looked around. "Looks like you guys have picked up a few admirers."
"It's surprising how easy guys can be when beer is involved."
Charles chuckled. "It doesn't take much."
Elizabeth handed William his beer. Then William searched his pocket for his wallet.
"Oh, don't worry about it."
"I can't let you do that."
Elizabeth arched her eyebrow. "Are you refusing a free drink from a woman?"
"Uh. . ." He looked at Charles who shrugged. "Of course not." He took a bill from his wallet and put it in the jar.
"Come on, William. Looks like we're holding up the line."
Before he was dragged away, William said, "I hope you're not going to be there all night."
Elizabeth smiled. The she said, "I won't be."
William allowed himself to be dragged off. She did not take his eyes off of him.
Take my heart and please don't break it.
Love was made for me and you.*
"Elizabeth!"
"What?"
Marianne's eyes were wide open. "Who left you that tip?"
"What tip?" She looked in the jar and saw a fifty dollar bill.
"Was that from William?"
Elizabeth's cheeks burned. "I think so."
Marianne shook her head in disbelief. "Now I understand what you mean by mediocre." She looked in the Willoughby guy's direction and gave him a look of disapproval.
Elizabeth laughed.
This exchange caused Willoughby to slip deeper into the crowd.
Marianne turned to face Elizabeth. "Did I miss something?"
"What are you talking about?"
She raised her eyebrow. "What did you do to deserve that tip?"
Elizabeth rolled her eyes.
"C'mon!" She pointed at the jar. "Did something happen in Napa?"
"What do you mean by something?"
"Something. You know. . . did you guys talk. . . did you guys end up sharing a room?"
Elizabeth swatted Marianne on the arm. "We did not share a room." She served a beer and returned to the conversation. "But, we did. . . talk."
"Talk?"
"Yeah, talk."
"That's it?"
"What's wrong with that?"
Marianne looked over at William who was talking with two young women. "You pretty much had that man to yourself for the weekend and all you did was talk?"
Elizabeth looked in the same direction as Marianne. She saw that William was talking to Kitty and Lydia. "It wasn't easy."
She looked at Elizabeth. "Oh really?"
She was surprised that William was able to maintain a conversation with her sisters even though it looked like Lydia was not holding back on the charm. "He was a perfect gentleman."
"But?"
"But, what? Do you want me to say that I wished he wasn't always a perfect gentleman?"
"Maybe you should tell him that."
She shook her head. "Right."
"Well, why not? You said you guys talked."
"Just because we talked, doesn't mean that everything's fixed now."
"Of course not, but then if you guys talked, didn't you guys figure something out?"
Elizabeth opened her mouth, but then closed it. Had they figured something out? William seemed to be so sure about his feelings. In fact, he had already made his feelings clear. What about her? It took her a moment before she said, "I. . . I think so."
"Then?"
"Then what?"
"Then what's the hold up?"
"The hold up?"
Marianne rested her hands on her hips. "Are you telling me that after spending two days and two nights in Napa Valley with a man like William, you're still not sure if you want him?"
"There's no question about wanting him." She glanced over at William, but averted her eyes when she caught his gaze. "It wouldn't be right to act on those feelings if that's all I felt."
"Elizabeth," Marianne served a beer to someone who was waiting before continuing, "You're just like Elinor. You worry too much about how things can be interpreted."
"I just don't want to do anything that would ruin things between us."
"Well, what about doing things that would make you both happy, to say the least."
"What if it turns out to be a mistake? A regret?"
Marianne looked at Elizabeth. "Don't you think it would be an even bigger regret not to try?" Then Marianne looked at William. "I mean, come on! Even if it turned out to be a mistake, would it really be that unpleasant?"
"I'm sure it wouldn't be, but William's not the type who wants something casual."
Marianne gave her friend a reassuring smile. "Yeah, but neither do you." She left Elizabeth standing by herself.
Marianne was right. Elizabeth knew what William wanted and for a long time she did not think she could give it to him. Not because she did not share the same feelings or that she doubted his. But because she was afraid. Now, that reason seemed so ridiculous to her. Regardless of her past experiences, Elizabeth knew that William was different. He was worth the risk.
More people came up to the bar and Marianne and Elizabeth were soon joined by Charlotte, Maria, and Kitty.
"Charlotte!"
"Hi Elizabeth!" They embraced each other. When they parted, Charlotte said, "Thanks for helping out back here. Dad wanted me to make sure things were alright in the kitchen."
"No problem. It's the least I could do."
Charlotte saw the tip jar. "Well, it's nice to see that this was not a complete waste of your time."
Elizabeth grinned. "You know I'm just going to give that to your father."
"Oh no, you won't."
"Yes, I will."
Charlotte rolled her eyes. "Like he's really going to take it from you."
Elizabeth was about to respond, but they were interrupted by the sound of someone clearing their throat. "Oh. Mr. Collins."
He nodded. "I'm so flattered that you remember me."
"How could I forget?" Charlotte looked at her with surprise. "Oh! This is my friend Charlotte Lucas. Charlotte, this is William Collins."
Mr. Collins' eyes widened. "You wouldn't happen to be related to the owner, Mr. Lucas?"
"Yes. He's my father."
"How nice." His eyes traveled down her figure. "Very nice."
"I think Maria and Kitty need some help." Charlotte walked away, not waiting for a response.
Mr. Collins returned his attention to Elizabeth. "How have you been? Still working at that public school?"
She did not like the way he emphasized the word public. "Yes. It's been a very good year."
"It has been, hasn't it? This year alone I've been able to win the support of many of the parents. They've been so helpful putting together the fund raisers."
"How nice."
"One parent was even kind enough to donate a piano for the chorus."
"How generous."
"Yes. I don't suppose there's that kind of. . . bond in a public school."
"Well, actually-"
"No. I should imagine there isn't. The difference with public schools is that there is such a lack of community involvement."
"I disagree-"
"At my school, everyone wants the children to do well. . ."
Elizabeth looked over at Charlotte and Marianne who were at the opposite end of the bar. No doubt they got a sampling of the conversation and decided to steer clear. Maria and Kitty, although legally could serve alcohol, were using the advantage to scope the crowd.
"I've also managed to get the cafeteria to serve more nutritious accompaniments with lunch. Did you know that ketchup. . ."
Elizabeth looked around, hoping that there was some reason she could use to extricate herself from this mind numbing conversation. She was about to give up when a familiar pair of dark eyes captured her attention. A mischievous smile spread across her lips when she came up with a plan.
She tilted her head to the side and beckoned him to come over. His initial reaction was one of disbelief, but when she gave him a reassuring smile, it was enough to bring him over.
"So, you see, if public schools would just make sure the food they served was appealing, there might be less-"
"Excuse me a moment, Mr. Collins." A corner of her mouth pulled up before she said, "Will, were we going over your place or mine tonight?"
Both men stared at her with their mouths opened. It was William who recovered first. "Uh. . . whatever you want."
"Well, why don't we go back to my place then. Jane will be staying with Charles."
William blinked several times. "Alright."
Elizabeth turned to Mr. Collins. "Is there anything else I can get for you?"
He looked at her and then at William. "Uh . . .no." He turned around and seeing that Charlotte was alone, walked towards her.
When they were by themselves, Elizabeth looked at William who still looked at her with disbelief. After a moment, he said, "You called me Will."
She shifted in her spot. "I'm sorry. I hope you're not upset at me for using you like that. Mr. Collins is just so-"
"No." He smiled. "I liked it."
Elizabeth rested her hand on one of the handles of the bar taps. "Then thanks. And don't worry about what I said."
He leaned against the bar. "Lizzy, you're not trying to get out of it now, are you?"
"I. . . uh. . .well . . ."
"Good." William walked away, but not before giving her a small smile.
It was not long afterwards when Elizabeth finished working the bar. The crowd dwindled and everyone who stayed behind were mostly family and a few very close friends.
Elizabeth was making her way towards William when she was stopped by her mother.
"Elizabeth, why didn't you tell me?"
She looked at her mother for a moment. Unable to figure out what she was talking about, she asked, "Tell you what?"
"That William Darcy is so charming."
She looked around the room for him and to her great dismay he was talking to Caroline. "Have you talked to him?"
"Charles introduced me to him. He's going to be a very good best man." She leaned closer to Elizabeth. "He's so handsome too."
Elizabeth nodded, not trusting herself to speak.
"And the way he handles all the ladies," This got Elizabeth's attention. "A man like him has no trouble attracting loads of admirers, but he's been able fend them off, nicely though."
"Oh."
"Perhaps since you're the maid of honor, there might be a chance-"
"Mom."
"Didn't you say you've already met him?"
"Yes."
"And wasn't he with you in Napa?"
Elizabeth cleared her throat. "Yes."
Mrs. Bennet squeezed Elizabeth's arm. "So, there's hope after all."
Elizabeth shook her head. "Mom, please don't do anything-"
Mrs. Bennet nudged Elizabeth with her elbow. "Smile, Elizabeth. He's coming this way."
They exchanged greetings. Mrs. Bennet did not waste any time. "Elizabeth just told me that you accompanied them to Napa this past weekend."
"Yes. Jane and Charles wanted some help with choosing a place for the wedding."
"That's so nice of you to give up your time for them. I'm sure you have a busy schedule."
He snuck a glance at Elizabeth. "It was a pleasure."
To Elizabeth's chagrin, William's gesture did not go unnoticed by Mrs. Bennet. "Oh, so you had a good time then?"
"Absolutely. I was sorry when it ended."
Elizabeth thought her mother's eyes were going to pop out of their sockets. Trying to divert her attention, Elizabeth said, "I think the place we saw on Sunday would make a beautiful setting for a wedding."
"I'm sure it would." Mrs. Bennet turned to William. "What did you like best about the trip?"
Elizabeth closed her eyes and lowered her head.
William let out a small laugh. "Well, if you must know Mrs. Bennet, I think Napa Valley is a lovely place, but I wouldn't have enjoyed it as much if Elizabeth hadn't been there."
Elizabeth stared at William in disbelief. She cleared her throat. "Does anyone need a drink?"
Mrs. Bennet, ignoring Elizabeth's question, said, "You don't know how happy it makes me to hear that. I was just telling Elizabeth what a nice man you are and how she-"
"How about a beer?"
"Really?" He gave Elizabeth a small smile. "I've been trying to convince Elizabeth-"
"How about some wine?"
"And since your her mother, I'm sure you're aware of how stubborn she can be."
Mrs. Bennet looked at William then at Elizabeth. "Are you saying that Elizabeth has refused to go out with you?"
"Not only refused, but she's made it clear that it would be impossible for us to have a relationship."
"Elizabeth, is this true?"
She opened and shut her mouth several times. William still wore that small smile on his face and her mother stared at her with disbelief.
"Well?"
"I . . .uh. . ."
Mrs. Bennet rested her hands on her hips. "Elizabeth Madeline Bennet. Of all the things. . . You were your father's daughter, but I'll be damned if you go against me on this." She took a step towards her. "You'll go out with this nice man. I won't accept no as an answer." She turned to William and gave him a sympathetic look and then looked at Elizabeth with narrowed eyes. "It's very hard to find a good man these days and I won't let you miss this one." She took William by the hand and drew him nearer to Elizabeth. "Why don't you two talk. I'll make sure no one interrupts you." She patted Elizabeth on the hand before walking off, intercepting Caroline on the way.
"I-I can't believe what just happened."
William looked down at his glass.
"You. . . my mother is making me go out with you."
"She asked about the trip and I couldn't lie to your mother."
"No, but you didn't have to be so. . ."
"Honest?"
She let out a heavy sigh. "You're very lucky that I'd already decided to go out with you before we talked to my mother or else I wouldn't have."
William took her hand. "You did?"
Elizabeth looked down at their entwined hands. "Yes."
William pulled her closer. "Then I'm sorry I got your mom to. . . bully you."
She laughed. "No, you're not."
"Alright. Maybe I'm not."
"You're incorrigible."
He kissed the top of her head. "Only when it comes to you." He tugged at her hand. "Let's dance."
They joined Jane and Charles and a few other couples on the make shift dance floor on the other side of the room.
Trust in me in all you do.
Have the faith I have in you.
Love will see us through,
if only you trust in me.
Why don't you, trust in me?
Elizabeth hesitated before she let William put his arms around her. He had embraced several times over the weekend, but he was not comforting her this time.
Come to me when things go wrong.
Cling to me daddy. And I'll be strong.
We can get along.
We can get along.
If only you trust in me.**
Instead of worrying how this dance could be interpreted or what other people might think, Elizabeth chose instead to concentrate on the arms that enfolded her and the eyes that mesmerized her. For the first time, in three months, she was truly happy.
* L-O-V-E sung by Nat King Cole.
** Trust in Me sung by Etta James.