Beginning, Previous Section, Section XI, Next Section

William arrived at Lizzy's house bearing a bottle of wine and a bottle of champagne in one hand and a small shopping bag in another. He followed Lizzy into the kitchen, where she had already begun preparing dinner.

"What's that?" William asked, nodding toward Lizzy as he stowed the wine and the contents of his bag in the refrigerator. He joined Lizzy at the counter, where a sheet of wonton skins and a bowl of indefinable mush awaited her culinary touch. Lizzy was intently reading a recipe she had apparently printed out of her computer. "Are we having Chinese food?" William dipped a finger into the bowl and brought it to his mouth as Lizzy absently slapped at him.

"Go wash your hands." William immediately complied with her terse command.

"That doesn't taste Chinese."

"It's not." William returned to the counter and wrapped his arms around Lizzy. He kissed the top of her head and then began to scatter little kisses around her left ear. "Hmmm," Lizzy purred. "You know, I can't think when you do that."

"Don't think then," William whispered in her ear. He turned her around pulled her close. Lizzy succumbed to his kisses, but William abruptly pulled away and turned his attention to the items on the counter. "So what are we making?" Lizzy took a few seconds to recover her powers of speech, and sighed at William. He was in the habit of toying with her by focusing her mind in one direction and then abruptly shifting gears. Lizzy had to admit it made things interesting between them, but it also created a certain amount of tension, and Lizzy knew that it was intentional. It was a game William played well, and one that Lizzy never won, not that she didn't enjoy the competition.

"Livy gave me this recipe for quick ravioli a while ago and I've been dying to try it. The stuffing contains mushrooms, spinach, and cheeses. I'm afraid it's going to be a vegetarian meal; do you mind?" William had no objection, and Lizzy patiently demonstrated the technique for making the ravioli. She put a small spoonful of filling in the middle of a square of wonton dough, moistened the edges with water, placed another square over the first, and carefully sealed to form a large ravioli. William feigned ignorance and Lizzy had made half the ravioli before she got wise to him. She ordered William to complete the ravioli while she tossed a salad and opened the wine. She heated up some of Jane's homemade spaghetti sauce while the pasta was in the stockpot. In short order, dinner was on the table.

"So what's for dessert?" Lizzy asked as she began to clear the dinner dishes a while later. "Do we have to make something, or did you cheat and bring something ready-made?"

"Madam, I never cheat. I prefer to think of it as making use of what is available."

"So what was available at the store?" Lizzy smiled archly. William went to the refrigerator and returned with a small cheesecake. Lizzy smiled. "It looks delicious."

"I was going to make poached pears with mascarpone cheese," William explained as he sliced into the rich confection, "But I couldn't find really good pears."

"Another recipe courtesy of your French girlfriend?" Lizzy teased.

"No. I can read recipes as well as you can, you know. And she was Richard's French girlfriend. Which reminds me; I ought to give him a call."

"I spoke to him about an hour and a half ago."

"How was he?"

"A bit grumpy. I think I woke him up. And Jane and Charles had been by earlier and they woke him up, too," Lizzy replied as she savored the rich, creamy texture of her dessert.

"There are few things that make Richard grumpy, and waking him up is one of them," William reported.

"I'll have to mention that to Olivia." William gave Lizzy a reproachful look and she smiled back at him. "Why don't you wait until morning to call him?" William nodded.

"Liz...did Olivia tell you that I saw her in Pennsylvania last week?"

"Yes. She e-mailed me to say that she was having lunch with you."

"Did she tell you that I met with her to discuss a project I'm working on with DARCO? I've offered her a job as a consultant." Lizzy nearly sprang out of her seat.

"Really? Will, that's great! Does it mean that she'll have to move to New York?"

"No, it doesn't." Lizzy's face fell. "Look, if she wants to move to the city, it'll be up to her. It's a consulting job and she can do it from Elverson if she so pleases." Lizzy pouted and moved over to sit on William's lap.

"Yes, but you could encourage her to move to New York if you wanted to."

"Why should I? She's entitled to live wherever she wants. She will be required to spend some time up here, so I'll bet you'll get to spend plenty of time with her," Will replied, knowing full well that spending time with Olivia was the last thing Lizzy had in mind.

"You're being deliberately obtuse, William." Lizzy stroked his dark curls as she complained.

"I'm glad you know that it's deliberate," William laughed as he lifted Lizzy in his arms and carried her into the living room. He deposited her on the couch and went to fetch the champagne. He poured out two glasses. He handed Lizzy one and raised the other.

"Here's to deliberate obtuseness, subterfuge, and shameless manipulation, all in the cause of true love." Lizzy stared at him uncertainly, her glass poised in her hand.

"Do you think that's all necessary?" William sipped his champagne. All that and much more, Lizzy, William thought to himself. Lizzy repeated her question, but William quickly silenced her the best way he knew how.

Part 10

When Richard opened his eyes the following morning her found that he was staring into William's eyes.

"That reminds me, I promised Dr. Fields I'd give her a call. Maybe I'll ask her if I can go back to the hospital. I can't seem to get any sleep here," he murmured as he turned over and closed his eyes once more. William straightened up and put his hands on his hips. Richard sighed and opened his eyes.

"All right, Fitz. What are you doing here?"

"I called you three times this morning and got no answer," William revealed, somewhat sheepishly.

"You got no answer because after Lizzy called me last light I pulled the phone out of the wall." Richard turned back over and sat up. "For Pete's sake, Fitz! I'm not a child. I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself!" Richard rubbed his eyes and looked up at William's slightly hurt expression. "Look Fitz, I appreciate your concern. I'm sorry I made you worry and I'm sorry I snapped at you. Geez, I pity your children," he quipped as he slid out of bed and headed for the bathroom. William shook his head and went back out to the living room where Lizzy was looking out at the view of the East River. She turned when she heard William enter the room.

"Is he okay?" William nodded.

"He said he disconnected the phone after you called last night."

"I guess you were right about his not liking to be disturbed when he's sleeping," Lizzy smiled. A second later her mouth dropped open when Richard passed by the living room wearing only a pair of brief shorts. William turned and went out into the corridor. When he reached Richard, he found him doing push-ups on the floor of his workout room.

"Lizzy's here."

"I know," Richard panted, interrupting his count. Lizzy appeared at the door. "Hi, Lizzy." Richard continued to count as Lizzy admired his form. The workout room--formerly a breakfast room, by Lizzy's reckoning--had a floor covered entirely in sound-absorbing rubber matting. At its center was a large piece of multi-stationed weight training apparatus, the likes of which she had never seen outside of a commercial gym. Other than the workout room, the apartment was decorated in crisp blues and whites and its all-American, slightly nautical décor suited Richard very well. But Lizzy didn't spend too much time admiring her surroundings. Richard finished his pushups and began to perform a set of sit-ups.

"Should you be engaging in such strenuous activity?" William wondered aloud.

"He looks fine to me," Lizzy smiled. Richard winked at her. William pulled Lizzy by the hand into the kitchen. They put on water for coffee and rummaged in the refrigerator for items with which to make breakfast. Lizzy finished making scrambled eggs and hash browns by the time Richard appeared in the doorway.

"Finished already?" Lizzy asked.

"I'm going to hold off on working out with weights for a few days. I just did a few calisthenics to wake myself up."

"Good," William said a bit testily. "You're awake, Lizzy's certainly awake--let's eat." Richard laughed and went to put on some sweats. He came back and joined the couple, which was already sitting at the table. They enjoyed a pleasant breakfast, during which Lizzy revealed to Richard William's offer to Olivia of a consultant position at DARCO. William cringed slightly when Lizzy brought up the subject, but he quickly decided that maybe it would be better if it came out this way. He shared a meaningful glance with Richard and briefly explained the project. William had put off telling Lizzy about Olivia's visit to New York and had kept her too busy to read her e-mail just in case Olivia had spilled the beans to her by e-mail. He was now glad he had taken those measures. He hoped to surprise Richard on Monday morning. William made a mental note to tell Lizzy about Olivia's planned visit later.

"So what are you plans for the day?" William asked.

"I need to go by your place and pick up my mobile, as you call it. Then I guess the rest of the day is open. Why?"

"Well, Lizzy had it in her mind that you might like to join us Christmas shopping, but I didn't think you'd be up to it," William cautioned. Richard ignored him and turned his charming smile on Lizzy.

"In town or out?"

"Out."

"Will you let me ride shotgun? I don't fit well in back seats." Lizzy smiled and nodded.

"Give me a few minutes to shower and I'm there." Richard went off to shower and dress while Lizzy did the dishes. William brought his car around and the others piled in. They stopped by William's house so that Richard could collect his phone. Before getting back into the car, Richard dialed Olivia's number, but got no answer. Lizzy was watching him, so he hung up without leaving a message.

The trio went to a sprawling suburban mall and covered nearly every store in sight, stopping on occasion for rest and sustenance. Richard claimed to be okay, but to William's mind, he seemed a bit tired. When he got the chance, Richard called Olivia again and left a brief message asking her to call back. For the rest of the afternoon, he was on pins and needles, anticipating her call. But it never came. William mistook Richard's preoccupation for fatigue, so he suggested an early return to the city.

They stopped for dinner at a small restaurant, and had such a great time laughing over their respective Christmas wish lists that Richard completely forgot about the phone that earlier had consumed his attention. But out of the blue it rang, startling Richard. He fumbled for it in his jacket and pulled it out. The caller was Mrs. Reynolds, who informed him that his parents had called from Palm Springs and asked after him. Richard thanked her for the message and hung up. Richard left the restaurant and returned to his apartment feeling slightly depressed.

When he got to his apartment, Richard called Olivia one more time. He left a second message and waited for the return call that never came. He retired early and lay in bed wondering where Olivia was and why she hadn't received his call. He tried her number three times again on Sunday, with the same result.

Very late Sunday night, Olivia returned to her house exhausted. She had spent the last forty-eight hours with her Aunt Marie, who had undergone cataract removal surgery on Saturday morning. Her aunt had come through the procedure with flying colors. Olivia was tempted to go straight to bed; she had to be up early for her flight to New York. But she sat down at her computer and e-mailed Richard the good news.

I have just spent the last two days with my aunt, who had a cataract removed from her left eye yesterday morning. She was a little uneasy about it, so I stayed with her to make sure she was all right. But the good news is, now that her vision has improved she's rather looking forward to going to Florida for Christmas with her friends, so it looks as though I will be able to go to Connecticut for Christmas after all. Therefore, you can forget what I said about possibly being unable to go. I'll do my best to think of some 'gentle' activities we can enjoy together over the holidays. As soon as I construct my list, I'll send it up to you.

Olivia sighed. She clicked on send with a bit of trepidation. She hadn't heard from Richard for several days. She looked at her watch. It was nearly 11:00 p.m. She wasn't about to call him at that hour. Instead, she called Lizzy.

"So how did you research project with William go?"

"Very well, once we got a round to it. We had to postpone it for a day after Richard's accident," Lizzy revealed matter-of-factly.

"He's had another accident? He isn't back in the hospital, is he? What happened to him?" Olivia gasped.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to alarm you. It wasn't anything serious," Lizzy explained. "The whole evening was kind of a bust anyway. I had spent the day making all these plans. I went over to the house to await William's return completely forgetting that Richard was still there. I walked in and he was sitting there and it kind of put a damper on my enthusiasm. I mean I couldn't very well drag William up to his room the minute he came home with Richard sitting there. Richard must have realized that William and I wanted to be alone, because he suddenly said he was tired and went upstairs. William came in a little while later, but before anything interesting happened, we hear this thud and run upstairs to find Richard on the floor.

"Is he all right?" Olivia repeated, not caring what Lizzy made of her apparent concern.

"Physically, yes. According to William, he fell out of his chair. But he's been very quiet these last few days. I know you'll want to kill me for saying this, but I think he misses you."

"Misses me? Then why hasn't he answered my e-mails?" Olivia bit her lip.

"You e-mailed him?" Lizzy's surprise was evident.

"Yes. Well, he e-mailed me first, so I e-mailed him back. But I haven't heard back from him," Olivia said simply.

"Really! So why don't you call him?" Olivia rolled her eyes. "And don't roll your eyes, Livy. He's your friend, right? And you're worried about him, right? So why don't you give him a call?"

"You're right, Lizzy, though it pains me to admit it." Olivia bit her lip as she thought about the fact that within twelve hours, she could actually see him face to face. Suddenly, a call seemed unimportant; she looked forward to the look of surprise on Richard's face when he saw her.

"Why don't you come up for Christmas? William has invited you, and you could see an awful lot of Richard, if you play your cards right!"

"How totally unexpected a reaction, Lizzy. What ever has come over you?" Olivia deadpanned. "Remember that I told you that Aunt Marie was invited to stay with friends in Florida? She had been hesitant to commit to going because of her cataract surgery and I kind of felt obligated to spend the Christmas holiday with her if she decided to stay at home since I didn't see her for Thanksgiving."

"Yeah. Did she have the surgery yet?"

"She had it yesterday. I just got home from her house. I took her to the hospital yesterday morning and stayed with her last night and all day today to make sure she came through it okay. She was kind of worried about post-surgery side effects."

"How'd she do?"

"I am happy to say that she came through with flying colors. I have booked her on a flight to Boca Raton and I'll be spending Christmas with you all in Connecticut."

"That's wonderful! I'm sure Richard would be very pleased to hear you say that."

"Thanks," replied Olivia, "Now tell me your definition of 'very well.'"

"Huh?"

"You said that your 'research' with William went 'very well.' What does that mean exactly?" Olivia prodded.

"Oh, did I say 'very well'? I should have said fabulous! It was...rather unscientific, but that is the worst thing I can say about it! In fact, that's all I'm going to say about it!"

"That's all I want to know, believe me."

"I did learn a few things, though."

"I daresay that 'learning a few things' was the entire point!" Olivia countered. Lizzy laughed.

"Did you know that William speaks four languages fluently?"

"No."

"He can say the most interesting things in all of them, too."

"How...convenient."

Olivia rose very early the following morning. She put a few things into her bag and headed for the door. Just as she reached the car, she stopped and turned back. She went into her office and found the cell phone that she had forgotten to bring with her to Aunt Marie's. A quick look at it revealed that Richard had called her. She smiled all the way over to George Knightley's farm. Gracious host that he was, George offered Olivia a Continental breakfast as they waited for the helicopter to arrive. While they waited, George plied her with questions about Olivia's work with DARCO and about Olivia's friend.

"So when will Lizzy be visiting again? Her last stay was way too brief," George smiled. Olivia raised her eyebrows.

"Lizzy's kept pretty busy in New York," Olivia replied tactfully.

"She's a fascinating woman. I wouldn't mind getting to know her better." Olivia nearly spit out her coffee. She covered herself by faking a little cough and rose to look out of the window. Mercifully, she spied the blue and white Darcy helicopter approaching, and she informed George that she ought not keep the pilot waiting. George drove Olivia over to the field where the helicopter had landed. As he handed her into the noisy craft, he asked her to extend his regards to Lizzy if she saw her. Olivia just smiled and thanked George for his hospitality and the helicopter took off.

Olivia found the flight exhilarating, although she thought it wise to refuse the pilot's offer of a cup of coffee. The trip took les than an hour, and when the copter landed at the heliport on the west side of Manhattan, Bates was waiting with the limousine to whisk her up to the Darcy Building. During the short ride, Olivia asked Bates if he knew where the offices of Fitzwilliam/Fitzwilliam were located.

"They're in the Darcy Building, miss. All the subsidiary companies of the Darcy Corporation are located in the Darcy Building." Olivia nodded, and took a deep breath. She felt a rush of excitement, both about the prospect of working with DARCO and the prospect of seeing Richard.

Richard was staring blankly out of the window of his office when Danielle knocked on his open door and came in. It was his first day back in a week and he was fairly eager to get caught up on things that he might have missed when he was forced to work from home. He had called Olivia as soon as he reached his office that morning. He had even used operator assistance to obtain her number at home. But he still had no joy. He was becoming very worried that some mischief had befallen her, or worse, that she was off somewhere enjoying a long weekend with the "someone" she had hopes of becoming serious about.

"Have you got a minute, Richard?" He turned his chair around and looked at his chief financial officer.

"What can I do for you?"

"I'm having a problem with these expense reports again," she began, brandishing a handful of papers in front of her. Richard furrowed his brows.

"I thought we agreed that you should go after the individuals involved." His reply was met with silence. "Have I screwed up an expense report?" he asked.

"No...Bill Collins did. Richard..." Danielle sat down.

"Danielle, please don't whine. Just deal with him. He's a human being just like the rest of us."

"He is not like the rest of us. That man--and I use the term loosely--gives me the creeps. Besides, I've spoken to him twice and I still get crap from him." Richard smiled.

"And what do you want me to do?"

"Speak to him, please. Apparently, you're the only person around here he listens to. I can't imagine why you hired that little creep."

"That little creep is very good at what he does. And he's not so bad, as long as you don't have to eat with him."

"Speak for yourself. The last time he came to my office the man practically drooled on me." Richard laughed. "What's so funny?" Richard wouldn't repeat what Bill Collins had revealed to him about his interest in Danielle. Instead, he agreed to meet with Collins.

"But you have to be present. I want Bill to understand that you rule the fiscal roost around here. I'll just be there to back you up...and catch his drool." He picked up the phone. "What do I get in return?"

"My undying devotion?"

"Try again," Richard smirked.

"Lunch at the Stage Deli?"

"Deal." He dialed Bill Collin's number and asked him to come up immediately.

William and Olivia were finishing up their meeting on the 40th floor. He had been very impressed by her presentation and was looking forward to working with her on the DARCO project. While William called his secretary to have a contract drawn up, Olivia rose and went to the window to admire the view.

"So, where's Richard's office?" Olivia asked when William got off the phone. William smiled.

"Fifteenth floor. Just ask at the reception desk. I'll call downstairs and make sure he's in." William called Anne's office while Olivia continued to survey the bustling traffic on the streets below. William hung up the phone and joined her at the window.

"Richard's in a meeting, but it's not expected to last long. I told his secretary to expect you and she'll make sure that Richard doesn't escape before you get there."

"Oh, I wanted to surprise him!" Olivia pouted.

"Believe me, you will. He has no idea that you're in town. Go on downstairs now. You can come up later and sign that contract."

"Thanks, William," Olivia smiled. She headed for the elevator, feeling light as a feather.

"Hello, beautiful," a voice called out from behind her. Olivia spun around. The voice was Richard's. But it wasn't Richard she found behind her.

"Matt," she gasped, glad that she didn't give in to her first impulse. "How are you?"

"I'm fine. Just fine. But I've been concerned about you." Olivia raised her eyebrows. The elevator came and she watched reluctantly while it left without her.

"Why?"

"You never answered my e-mail," Matt said.

"Yes I did. You sent it on the same day that we met. I answered it within minutes of getting it..." The elevator door opened again, and Olivia was more interested in discussing e-mails with Richard than with Matt. "Look, I have to get to another meeting," she said as she rushed toward the elevator. "Can we discuss this another time?"

"Over dinner?" Matt pleaded.

"No," Olivia sighed as the door mercifully drew closed. She doubted that Matt had heard her reply, but that was the least of her concerns at the moment. Olivia got off on the fifteenth floor and approached the reception desk.

"Excuse me," she said to the two women standing at the desk. "I'm looking for Richard Fitzwilliam.

"Oh!" cried one of the women. "Are you the lady Mr. Darcy sent down?" Olivia nodded, and Anne led Olivia to her office. "I'm on my way out to lunch, so I was waiting for you," Anne explained. "Richard is still in his meeting, but you can wait for him here." Anne offered Olivia a seat and refreshments. Olivia refused the coffee, but asked a favor.

"Would you mind if I used your desk for a moment?" she asked as she pulled out her Companion. "I need to check my messages." Anne moved a few things on her desk aside and left Olivia to her task. Olivia brought up her e-mail program and scanned her sent messages. To her dismay, she saw no sign of a message to Matt Fitzwilliam. She went back to December 9th and quickly began opening each of the e-mails she had written to Richard on that day. The third message was the one intended for Matt. Olivia put her hand over her mouth in horror. She sat for a full minute, stunned by the enormity of her error. She had accidentally mixed up e-mail messages before, but never with such potentially devastating consequences. As she sat there, she could hear Richard's voice resonating through the suite. Olivia gathered her wits about her and composed herself. It sounded as though the meeting in Richard's office was breaking up.

"So, are we clear about this, Bill?" Richard repeated each of Danielle's instructions to the head of Geek Central. "And if you fail to comply with these guidelines again, not only will I not reimburse you for your travel expenses, I'll personally pull your charge card." Collins responded with his usual condescension to Danielle, and Richard promptly put him on probation.

"I'm in deadly earnest, Bill. I'll not have you flouting my CFO's authority. You have your job to do and Danielle has hers. What she says goes, or you go. Am I making myself clear?" Bill blanched and turned to Danielle with an obsequious smile. Richard raised an eyebrow as Collins promised to do whatever Danielle asked of him. Collins took her hand and shook it, then rose and left the room, leaving the door slightly ajar. As soon as the little man was out of sight Danielle leapt to her feet and began wiping her hand on her skirt.

"He touched me, Richard! Lunch is off! I agreed to meet with that odious jerk, but you didn't say anything about having to touch him." Richard laughed for the first time in days. He shook his head and as he did so, he caught a glimpse of Olivia sitting at Anne's desk. He stopped laughing suddenly and rose from his chair. He thought he was imagining things, so he walked over to the door, Danielle following behind, perplexed by his behavior. Olivia looked up from her computer and returned his smile. Danielle retreated to Richard's desk to retrieve her things and made a quick exit. Richard didn't hear her leave.

"What are you doing here?" he breathed.

"I had a meeting upstairs. Why haven't you answered any of my..." Olivia paused and counted, "My three, no four e-mails?" Richard glanced at the laptop and for a moment he thought it was his own. He looked back at Olivia, who rose and walked toward him. She stopped very close to him and looked up into his eyes expectantly. Richard's throat went dry. He opened his mouth to answer her, but he couldn't remember her question. Olivia read his confusion.

"You haven't answered any of my e-mails--five of them, if you include the one that wasn't meant for you." Richard blinked.

"I haven't read my e-mail lately," he managed. He was intoxicated by her scent. Slowly, her words began to register in his brain.

"None of them?" Olivia challenged.

"Which one wasn't meant for me?" Olivia smiled and walked around Richard into his office.

"Nice place," she remarked as she began to examine the bookshelves, which displayed an odd mixture of technical manuals, classical literature, and vintage toys.

"Which one wasn't meant for me?" Richard repeated with a tinge of urgency in his voice. Olivia turned around, still smiling.

"Apparently, the one you read."

"Who was it meant for...if I might ask, that is?" Richard asked nervously.

"Your cousin, Matt," Olivia replied, as she walked over to his desk and Richard followed. Olivia bowed her head to examine a small model spaceship on the desk and Richard stared at the back of her neck.

"Matt?" he spat suddenly. Olivia turned around.

"Yes, Matt. I met your cousin at the Tech Expo last week and he sent me an e-mail asking me out."

"Oh. So that e-mail wasn't meant for me." Olivia shook her head. Richard's headache disappeared. "So who was that guy you mentioned in your e-mail?"

"Guy?"

"You know, you told Matt you were kind of seeing someone." Olivia's smile widened.

"That depends on whether or not you still plan on calling me on the 15th."

"It's still the only thing on my schedule," Richard smiled. "Of course, since you're here today, we could make plans over lunch." Something crossed Richard's mind; he went to his desk and buzzed Danielle's office.

"You really meant it when you said lunch was off, right?"

"Honey, I may never eat again! But I don't think you'll have any trouble finding a replacement for me," she smiled knowingly.

"Danielle, you're a treasure. Thanks." He hung up the phone and turned around. Olivia was gone. Richard immediately panicked, until he realized that she was in the outer office, collecting her things. She brought her briefcase into his office for safekeeping and allowed Richard to escort her to the elevator.

"Wait!" Olivia cried suddenly. She stepped out of the elevator as the door began to close and Richard had to leap out after her to avoid being trapped.

"What's wrong?"

"It's December and it's freezing outside. You can't go out like that!" Richard looked down at his tweed jacket and cords. Olivia pointed toward his office, and Richard sheepishly went to get his coat. While Olivia watched him go, another elevator door opened behind her. She didn't notice William slip out and head in the opposite direction, towards Danielle's office. When he reached her open door he walked right in.

"I've got her under contract," he announced triumphantly. "Or will have, when she's done with her visit to Richard."

"They've gone to lunch," Danielle smiled. "She's a cutie."

"Oh, you had a chance to meet her?" William asked, as he slid into a chair and pulled out his ever-present little notebook.

"Meet her? William, when Richard saw her he became so incoherent he probably couldn't remember his own name much less mine," she laughed. William nodded absently as he made an entry in the small leather-bound book.

"There's something about a girl from Elverson. I know three and they're all prizes."

"Three?" Danielle's eyes widened.

"Well, I told you about Lizzy. She has a sister: Jane. I think you might have met her at our holiday party last year."

"If she was the stunning blond that Bill Collins spilled a drink on, yes," Danielle replied, staring at her right hand.

"What's the matter?" William looked from Danielle's worried face to her hand. She shook her head and put the offended hand in her lap. "Now that we've got Olivia on board, we can begin to work out a time table," he continued.

"I still don't know exactly how you intend to pull this off, boss man. Suppose she won't do her part?"

"Danielle, I've had another brilliant idea." Danielle raised an eyebrow. William's smug expression unnerved rather than reassured her.

"And if she says no?"

"No one says no to me, Danielle." She threw her head back and laughed. William's face fell.

"What?" It took Danielle a minute to compose herself. William grew a bit concerned as he waited.

"I'm sorry, boss man," she said, as the last chuckle escaped her throat.

"What?" William repeated in frustration.

"I bet that's the first time you've ever used that line in a business meeting," she smiled, as she wiped away tears. William crossed his arms and waited for her laughter to subside.

"Very funny. Can we get on with this?"

Richard led Olivia to a restaurant a few blocks east of the Darcy Building. As they walked arm in arm, Olivia described her project with DARCO.

"It's really a great opportunity to combine two of my passions. Done correctly, the Cook's Companion could turn out to be the most valuable tool to the professional chef since the balloon whisk."

"Sounds like you've been talking to the people in P.R.," Richard smiled.

"Actually, no. But William did say that I'd have to spend some time working with his public relations department as the product was developed in order to develop a marketing campaign." They reached the restaurant and were led to a table. The minute they sat down, all thoughts of William, DARCO, public relations, and computers disappeared from their minds.

"So why didn't you answer my e-mails?" Olivia said as she handed the waiter the menu. Richard propped his chin on his hand and leaned forward slightly.

"Why didn't you answer my phone calls?" he replied, looking into her eyes.

"I didn't even know that you had called me until this morning, and I was already on my way to New York. I was planning to surprise you."

"I called you three times yesterday."

"Oh; well, I didn't have my phone with me. I was away for the past two days, you see." Visions of Olivia at a resort with another man intruded on Richard's thoughts. He couldn't prevent himself from prying.

"Where were you?"

"If you had read your e-mails," Olivia said pointedly, "You would know that I've been at my Aunt Marie's house. Really, you should have read your mail." A wry smile escaped her lips. She considered not telling him where she'd been. But Richard's charm was not to be denied. "All right. My aunt needed cataract surgery. She had it on Saturday and I drove her to and from the doctor's office and stayed with her till last night. Okay?"

"And your aunt is fine now, I take it." Richard sat back as the waiter appeared with Olivia's stuffed chicken breast and Richard's burger deluxe. But his gaze never left hers.

"She's wonderful," Olivia acknowledged with a secret smile.

"What aren't you telling me?" Richard asked suspiciously. Olivia lightly touched her fingers to Richard's head, just below the spot where there was still a pale sign of the contusion.

"How are you? Last time I saw you, you weren't feeling too well." Richard claimed the hand and held it for a moment, but Olivia gently freed it to cut her chicken.

"I'm much better, thank you. All I needed was a little rest and peace of mind to put my head back in order."

"Peace of mind?"

"I haven't recovered my memory of the incident, but I found out what happened that night and it has eased my mind considerably." Richard felt the tension in Olivia's hand. "Caroline--."

"I'd really rather not know, Richard. As long as you're okay with what happened, I'm fine with it."

"Nothing happened." Olivia nodded. Richard wasn't sure that she believed him, but he didn't press her. They compared the weather in Elverson with the weather in New York as they ate. Richard worried, even as he chatted easily, that the incident with Caroline would cast a pall over their relationship. He wanted to ask Olivia about the holidays but thought he should wait until he felt surer of himself.

"So you called me three times yesterday?" Olivia smiled as she laid down her fork and picked up her water glass. Richard nodded.

"And twice this morning: once on your cell phone and once at home."

"Did you leave any interesting messages?" she teased.

"Well, I...no," Richard frowned. Olivia put her napkin to her mouth and laughed.

"You still haven't answered my question. Why didn't you answer any of my e-mails?"

"I confess," Richard said, staring at his thumb, which was slowly stroking the back of Olivia's hand, "That when I read that one message I was thrown for a loop. I spent one day feeling rather miserable and then I snapped out of it and decided to call you."

"But why didn't you e-mail me back? Had you done so, you would have read the message I sent that day that was intended for you." Richard looked up.

"What did it say?" Olivia smiled wickedly.

"I think you'll just have to read it--and the others--for yourself." Richard called for the check and paid it. Within a few minutes they were back at his office. Richard pulled out his Companion and Olivia pulled out hers. They individually accessed their e-mail accounts. Richard first opened the message that Olivia said was intended for Matt. He read it again, but it no longer had any power to distress him. He opened the next message:

I truly would like to spend the Christmas holidays in Connecticut, but I can't make any commitment as yet. My Aunt Marie, my only living relative other than my stepbrother (he's in Germany), has been invited to spend the holidays in Florida with friends. If she goes to Florida, I can go to Connecticut. But if she decides against going, I feel obligated to stay here and spend the holidays with her, especially since I wasn't with her at Thanksgiving. She has a medical problem that may prevent her from going to Florida. She's seeing a doctor on Saturday, so keep your fingers crossed! I'll let you know how things turn out.

Richard sighed and shook his head. The message had arrived within minutes of the first one and he felt foolish for overreacting as he did. He clicked on the next message.

Richard, I'm growing a little concerned because I haven't heard from you since your e-mail Wednesday evening. I hope you are well, and back online soon. It's lonely here without you.

Richard smiled and looked up at Olivia, who was typing away on her Companion on the opposite side of his desk. The third message was sent early Saturday morning.

I am off to my Aunt Marie's house. I probably will be there overnight. She's having cataract surgery on her eye today and doesn't want to be alone. Are you all right? I'm really beginning to worry. Write me! Richard ran a hand through his hair and clicked on the next message.

I haven't left yet! Just checking in case you remembered my existence and decided to reply. But, alas, you're still incommunicado. I do hope you're all right! Maybe you ran out of cookies and your strength has faded?

Miss you! :(

Richard looked up again. Olivia was still typing. He glanced at his screen and saw that a message had just arrived from her.

Hi, Richard!

Hello, beautiful! He sent the message whizzing back across his desk and clicked on the one above it.

I have just spent the last two days with my Aunt Marie, who had a cataract removed from her left eye yesterday morning. She was a little uneasy about it, so I stayed with her to make sure she was all right. But the good news is, now that her vision has improved she's rather looking forward to going to Florida for Christmas with her friends, so it looks as though I will be able to go to Connecticut for Christmas after all. Therefore, you can forget what I said about possibly being unable to go. I'll do my best to think of some 'gentle' activities we can enjoy together over the holidays. As soon as I construct my list, I'll send it up to you. Richard beamed. He began a reply as two messages appeared on his queue.

I'm thrilled that you are coming to Connecticut. I look forward to seeing your list. He hit the send button and opened Olivia's next message.

See what you missed? You should have read your e-mail.

Indeed. I'll never neglect my e-mail again, Scout's honor! But you have to remember to never forget to carry your phone. I spent the whole weekend craving the sound of your voice.

He opened the next message as Olivia looked up. Their eyes met and lingered for a moment, and then returned to their respective screens. Olivia read each of Richard's replies and folded her hands in her lap, waiting for him to catch up with her messages. Richard's smile broadened as he read her list.

Christmas wish list:

A hike in that pretty little wooded area behind your house (the one we didn't get to on Thanksgiving), picnic optional

Long talk in front of a roaring fire (you can pick the fire!)

Another lunch at Harpy's (without Georgiana ogling us!)

A visit to the tree at Rockefeller Center (I know it's not in Connecticut, but I didn't get to see it lit)

--I'll have to think of more later. Can't think with you looking at me like that.

Would you mind if I think of a few things to add as well?

Be my guest, but I'm not getting on a luge or going near any place called Suicide Hill!

I was thinking more along the lines of dancing the night away somewhere. We have yet to plan that date, you know.

It's not the fifteenth yet, you know!

I can't wait until Friday! By the way, how long will you be in town? Olivia checked her watch.

Maybe five or six more hours. William has arranged for me to fly back this evening, but I'm going to see Lizzy first.

Then we should make the most of what time we have left! Richard clicked on send and then made a show of closing his laptop. A minute later, Olivia did the same.

"Now about that date. Does it really have to be after Christmas?" Richard began as he came around the desk and took Olivia's hand. He led her to the couch and sat her down.

"Perhaps we should negotiate."

"When are you coming north again?" Richard raised Olivia's hand to his lips and lightly kissed her fingers. An audible sigh escaped her lips before she answered.

"William suggested that I come up to New York on the 21st and go on to Connecticut with him and Lizzy. If my schedule allows, I may come up at the beginning of the week and spend that time at Lizzy and Jane's."

"How much of your time will be devoted to working with DARCO?" Richard asked, staring at Olivia's delicate fingertips, still cradled in his hand.

"William wants me exclusively for the next four months, but I have a few clients with whom I've built long-term relationships and I'm not willing to give them up. So I'm going to keep them and finish up a few ongoing projects. I guess that starting in January, approximately 80% of my time will be devoted to DARCO." Richard smiled his approval.

"Good. Now about that date: If you're going to be in town a few days early, why don't we plan on seeing each other on the 20th? We can have dinner, go dancing, and see the tree. How does that sound?"

"It sounds like a very enjoyable evening." Olivia pouted, and Richard was instantly tempted to kiss her. But he knew it was too soon. This was the real thing; he had figured that much out over the weekend, but he was going to take his time and not rush into anything. He could wait awhile until he kissed her again...maybe.

"What's the matter" Richard touched a finger to her lips.

"I have been looking forward to our post-Christmas date," she teased. "Now you've gone and ruined it for me."

"I promise," Richard assured her. "I will call you on Friday and we will most definitely have a post-Christmas date. In fact, I'd like to take this opportunity to reserve New Year's Eve." Olivia's face darkened, as it had that day in the hospital. "What is it, Livy? Whenever I mention New Year's Day a cloud seems to come over you." Olivia averted her eyes.

"I watched my father die last New Year's Eve. The day holds pretty bad memories for me." Richard put his arm around Olivia and gently pulled her close. Suddenly, before she even knew why, she had begun to cry.

"I'll get the people in P.R. on it right away." William closed his pen and slipped it into his pocket. He laid his notebook down and tented his fingers. "If I pull this off, not only will Richard live happily ever after, but I expect that DARCO will turn a handsome profit as well."

"That's if you pull it off. William, aren't you sticking your neck out very far on this?" Danielle asked worriedly.

"Actually, no. Well, yes. It'll cost me a chunk of change, but it stands to net DARCO and the Darcy Corporation a handsome profit, so it's no greater a risk than anything that comes out of R and D."

"But the boys and girls in research and development don't play with your personal bank account. I wish I could afford to call half a million dollars a chunk of change." William rose.

"First of all, you said that amount was the worst case scenario figure. I don't expect it to go that high. And even it does, as a failed business venture, I could write off most, if not all of it. But I expect it to do very nicely. I'm very impressed by Olivia. I have been since I met her, but now that I've dealt with her on a business level, I am doubly impressed. She's going to be a great asset to DARCO." Danielle knocked on her rosewood desk.

"I hope you're right, boss." William headed for the door.

"I'd better get out of here before they come back."

Richard went his desk and got a few tissues. He handed them to Olivia and she dabbed at her eyes. She came to her feet and began perambulating around the room to compose herself.

"I'm sorry. That hasn't happened in a long time. I guess that with the end of the year coming, I've been dreading that day."

"Well, you won't have to face it alone. We don't have to celebrate the new year if you don't feel up to it, but I would like to be there for you." Olivia turned around and Richard was right behind her. She hugged him tightly.

"Thank you," she whispered in his ear. After a minute, they heard a noise in the outer office and pulled away. Anne had come back from her long lunch for a coworker about to begin maternity leave. Olivia asked if she could call Lizzy and Richard went out to have a word with Anne.

"Hi, Lizzy! Are you having a busy afternoon?"

"No, in fact, it's a pretty slow day. Would you like me to hop on a train and come down for dinner?"

"Actually, I'm in New York. When you started telling me some of the words William taught you for various body parts in Japanese and German, I completely forgot why I called you in the first place."

"You're in town to meet with William, right? He told me that you were coming up."

"Good. Do you think we can squeeze in a short visit before I have to leave?" Olivia asked as she smiled at Richard. He had reentered the office and sat down at his desk. He propped his chin and smiled at her as she spoke. Olivia couldn't resist the urge to run her fingers through his hair lightly and suddenly the gesture that had always infuriated him when done by his mother and both his grandmothers made his heart sing.

"What time is your train?" Lizzy asked as she closed up her file and prepared to leave the office.

"I didn't come by train. William flew me up by helicopter." Richard rolled his eyes and shook his head.

"Are you done with everything up there?"

"Hardly!" Olivia cried with emphasis, her eyes glued to Richard's. "Uh, I have to sign a few things in William's office and then I can leave." Richard made a frown and Olivia stroked his cheek.

"I can meet you somewhere. Or did you want to come down here?"

"I don't mind staying up here a while longer," Olivia smiled at Richard.

"I'm on my way. I'll just have a word with Charles and then jump in a cab." They hung up and Olivia collected her things.

"Thank you for lunch," she said

"Thank you for still coming to see me after I was hopelessly stupid," Richard smiled.

"Nothing is hopeless," Olivia whispered. They stared into each other's eyes for a second. "What about Lizzy?"

"I was just thinking the same thing. I think the less she knows for now the better. At least until Christmas."

"Agreed." Olivia stuck out her hand and Richard shook it. They continued to hold hands, surreptitiously, as Richard walked Olivia to the elevator. They exchanged the briefest kiss as the doors to the elevator opened. Richard sighed as the door closed and he strolled down to Danielle's office with a smile on his face. He walked into her office, picked out a CD and put it on. Then he sat down while Danielle observed him. It didn't take a genius to tell that things had gone well.

"How was lunch?"

"Swell." Richard's smile didn't fade as he turned his mind to business. "I think we won't be having any more trouble with Collins." He wove his fingers together and cradled his head as he sat back.

"He touched me, Richard."

"It wasn't my fault! What did you want me to do, throw my body in front of yours?" Olivia would have my head! Danielle thought to herself. Aloud, she suggested that Collins be kept at least five feet away from her in future dealings, just in case.

"I bet I can tell you something that will make you feel better," Richard smiled. Danielle crossed her arms, expecting to hear an account of the romantic lunch he had just had with Olivia. What she heard was quite different.

"You've heard me refer to Bill as the Electronic Whiz? Well, when he first came on board, Fitz, Kate, Steve and I interviewed him and we thought he was one of, if not the strangest person any of us had ever met. However, he was the best candidate for the job and there was no question that we had to have him. But he was such an odd duck that people started saying things behind his back. That's why I began to call him the Electronic Whiz of the Western World."

"Come again? So far I don't feel any better."

"Take out a pen and write down the first letter of the following: Electronic...Wizard...Western...World. Now add that to his first initial and his last name and you can read his e-mail account." Danielle just looked at him. Richard took the pen from her hand and wrote: "ewwwwcollins@fitzfitz.com." Danielle was still laughing when Richard spotted the small notebook sitting on the edge of her desk. He picked it up.

"I see Fitz has been here. Are you guys carrying on behind my back again?" Danielle abruptly stopped laughing when she saw what Richard held in his hand.

"Well," she dissembled, "I needed a strong antidote to my earlier traumatic experience, and nothing makes me forget ugly faster than the sight of William Darcy." Richard laughed, as did William, who entered the room as she spoke.

"Thank you, Danielle," he said with a wink. He had no idea what traumatic experience she was speaking of, but if it prevented Richard from opening his notebook, he didn't care. He took the book from Richard's fingers. "I've been looking for that." Richard glanced at the pair. Each of them was carefully expressionless. He rose and headed for the door.

"I don't know what you guys are up to, but right now I'm in too good a mood to care."

"What do you mean, Fitz?" William asked innocently.

"You spend more time with my CFO than your own," Richard accused as he headed for the door. William winked at Danielle then followed him.

"She's my CFO, too. And you have to admit, Danielle's a lot better looking than Todd."

"True, true," Richard admitted.

"So how was your visit with Olivia?" Richard's smile returned and all suspicions were forgotten.

"Very nice. We had plans for when she comes up again. Fitz, will you do me a favor? Keep Lizzy off our case, just for a little while. We're at a delicate stage here."

"Sounds serious," William smiled.

"It does, doesn't it?" Richard quipped as he returned to his office. William rode back up to the fortieth floor. Olivia was sitting where he left her, reading.

"Did you find it?" she asked without looking up. William tapped his pocket.

"Yes." Before he could say more, Jo informed him that Lizzy was outside. He had her come in and she kissed William and hugged Olivia. After a few minutes, William threw the women out of his office. They headed for the elevator as they pulled on their coats.

"So," demanded Lizzy. "I take it you saw Richard?"

"Yes." Olivia replied with an expression that betrayed nothing of the emotions that were swirling through her head. She knew now for certain that she was hopelessly in love but she was darned if she was going to let Lizzy know that. Not yet, anyway. It was her private joy, and she intended to share it with Richard first. She had a date with him for the following week. The next eight days would be very long ones.

Jane took the opportunity during a lull in the busy day at the shop to restock a jewelry case. She was laying out handcrafted earrings, pins, and necklaces of Sterling silver--some of the most popular items in her gallery--when her partner Maria sidled over to her and nudged her.

"You have got to see the guy who just came in," she whispered. Jane smiled, but kept her attention on the arrangement of her stock.

"May I remind you that I am engaged?" Jane smiled.

"This guy might 'disengage' you in a heartbeat. He's coming over." Maria nudged her again, causing Jane to have to rearrange three pairs of earrings.

"Hello, Jane." She finally looked up.

"Hello, Richard. What are you doing here?" She came out from behind the counter and kissed his cheek. Ever since Richard had given up his interest in Lizzy, Jane had made a conscious effort to overcome her earlier prejudice and get to know him better. They had become quite friendly. "Richard, this is my partner, Maria Lucas. Maria, this is Richard Fitzwilliam, Charles's best man. Maria will be one of my bridesmaids." Richard expressed his pleasure at meeting Maria, and Maria expressed her mutual pleasure. Jane quickly pulled Richard away; she was determined that Olivia and Richard were destined to be together and even her close friend and business partner would not be allowed to interfere. She led Richard over to a corner of the shop.

"So what brings you here? I thought we were meeting in the city."

"Charles called and told me to meet him here. The reason is twofold: we decided on a restaurant in Brooklyn for dinner, and Charles told me that this was an ideal place to find presents for the evil twins."

"Evil twins?" Jane repeated.

"My sisters. I personally would like to put lumps of coal in their stockings, but I gave them that already," Richard joked.

"Well, we have a wide assortment of things here--folk art, ceramics, paintings, candles, jewelry--there must be something here that they'd like." Jane encouraged Richard to explore the shop and returned to her task at the jewelry case.

"Charles's best man, indeed," Maria whispered. "He could be my best man, anytime!"

"Don't even think about it!" Jane said under her breath, as Richard approached carrying a teddy bear under one arm.

"Do you have a box for this?" he asked Maria.

"Yes, and I'll be happy to wrap it for you," Maria answered. Richard handed her the bear and turned to examine the contents of the display cases before him. He took an interest in the assortment of jewelry that Jane was laying out and she showed him several from the case. As he mulled over selections, Jane asked about Christmas.

"So are you looking forward to the holidays?"

"Christmas is my absolute favorite time of the year. I love the weather, I love the gathering of friends and family--well, friends, anyway--I love giving presents and getting them, and I love bringing out the trains and setting them up in the game room."

"Aren't you a little old for trains?" Jane smiled.

"Perish the thought! My dad and I spend almost half the holidays in the train room in the basement. Christmas is the only time my mother lets us set up a layout upstairs for all the kids in the family to play with," Richard said, and Jane swore that she saw the excitement of a twelve year-old in his eyes.

"I understand that Olivia will be coming up from Pennsylvania," Jane assayed, trying to move the conversation in her desired direction. Richard's pleasant smile didn't change.

"Yes, I saw her when she was in town on Monday," Richard said, noncommittally, "She said she was going to spend a few days with you here and then go up to Greenwich."

"Yes. Apparently, she and Lizzy have big plans to do some cookie making. I'm glad Livy's coming back. You didn't really have a chance to know her when she was here earlier."

"I didn't?" Richard smiled. Jane took Richard's innocent remark as sufficient provocation to launch into a detailed description of all of Olivia's virtues. Richard simply nodded and on occasion even answered in monosyllables as he selected necklaces for Corrine and Caitlin, a candleholder and candle for his secretary, and a pin for Danielle. Richard devoted several minutes to selecting just the right design for Danielle, which piqued Jane's curiosity.

"A gift for a special lady?" Jane hinted, hoping that Richard would admit something she was eager to hear. "How about this?" Jane picked up a delicate chain with small hearts dancing along its length. It was a bracelet that Olivia had admired when she was last at the store. Richard examined it and frowned.

"That's not at all her style. She's more...you know, sophisticated, stylish. I need something that makes a real statement." It was Jane's turn to frown. Men had no sense of anything! She tactfully suggested that the bracelet would make an excellent statement.

"Not on Danielle! How about that pin?" Jane pulled it out reluctantly.

"Who's Danielle?" Richard looked up innocently.

"A very dear friend of mine. I need something really special for her because she's a very elegant and fashion-conscious woman. This is perfect! She'll like this one, I think." The pin he settled on was a small work of art, a collage of anodized metal pieces and about as far from Olivia's taste as it could possibly be. Richard was seemingly oblivious to Jane's glower as she rang up the purchases and Maria wrapped them. Richard was checking names off his list when Charles arrived at the shop. Before he even returned Richard's greeting Charles knew that something was amiss. Jane's look spoke volumes. Charles quickly moved over to where she was standing, her arms folded across her chest. She didn't return Charles's kiss.

"Richard is buying expensive gifts for another woman. He spent more on her than he did on his own sisters!" Charles smiled and tried to put Jane's mind at ease.

"If it makes you feel any better, he already bought his sisters other gifts. He wanted to give them something more, so I suggested that he look in the shop." Jane turned her glare on Charles.

"Has he mentioned anything about someone named Danielle to you?" Charles laughed openly while Jane continued to fume.

"Danielle is an employee at Fitz's company. She's a good friend, and she's very happily married. You have nothing to worry about." Jane's face brightened. Then she pouted.

"He didn't buy anything for Livy." Charles rolled his eyes.

"Well, he's not likely to shop for her here, is he?" Richard was watching the pair's animated discussion over in the corner. Charles noticed and left Jane's side to join him.

"Are you going to tell me what I did to anger your goddess, or will I have to watch my back if she's given a knife at dinner?" Charles shook his head and laughed.

"You bought Danielle a Christmas gift."

"That isn't a crime in Connecticut. How long has it been on the books here?" Richard smirked.

"She thought that Danielle was someone you're involved with."

"And buying someone I'm involved with a nice gift would be such an unconscionable act since when?"

"Since she decided that you are the exclusive property of one Olivia Crenshaw." Richard threw his head back and laughed. When saw Jane's eyes flaring, however, he quickly quieted and walked over to the counter where she and Maria were standing.

"May I see that bracelet you showed me earlier one more time?" Jane beamed as she took it out. Richard purchased it immediately and Jane wrapped it with special care. Richard winked at Charles and Jane smiled radiantly at Charles. Jane grabbed her things and the trio headed down the block to a Middle Eastern restaurant. As they entered the restaurant, Charles spoke quietly in Richard's ear.

"Thanks for making Jane's day. She was very pleased that you bought a gift for Olivia." Richard smiled cheekily.

"I wouldn't mention it to her, but I bought the bracelet for Gee. I just realized that I'd accidentally forgotten to put her on my list." Charles's eyes opened wide. "Don't worry; I bought Olivia's present earlier in the week." Charles exhaled.

"You're too good to me, you know."

"I know." Lizzy cast a glance at William, whose eyes were affixed to the papers he was studying. Lizzy decided that he looked cute in his tortoise shell reading glasses.

"You look like Clark Kent."

"Who's Clark Kent?" William asked absently. Lizzy shrugged and snuggled more deeply into the crook of his arm.

"Are you sure you want me to pick out my own Christmas gift?" William nodded, not moving his eyes from the page. "Suppose I pick something expensive and extravagant?"

"You'd get an expensive and extravagant Christmas gift." He turned the page. Lizzy peered at it.

"How can you read that tedious stuff?"

"You've read business plans before, surely."

"Yes, and I've even written a few, but never one with so many numbers. I can't make heads or tails of it." I know. That's why I can read this in plain sight of you with absolutely no fear of being found out, William smiled. Lizzy closed her eyes for a few minutes and allowed herself to be swept up in the strains of Mahler that emanated from the stereo. After a time she opened her eyes and looked up at William. He was still concentrating on his work.

"What if I wanted an elephant?"

"You'd need to expand your garden, I think."

"A fur coat?"

"I thought you weren't a material girl."

"Even a non-material girl can get cold."

"Fur is not politically correct."

"You said I could have whatever I wanted." Lizzy challenged, and William sighed.

"Then name your size, the style, and the animal you want mercilessly slaughtered to satisfy your vanity," William deadpanned.

"That takes all the fun out of it." Lizzy bit her lip. She picked up the magazine that was lying on her lap. She flipped through the pages and stopped at one with an advertisement for an ornate, diamond and ruby encrusted bracelet. "How about that?" William's eyes glanced at the page for the briefest second.

"It's yours. But you'd have to promise to never wear it in my presence." Lizzy smiled and kissed William's cheek.

"You're cute."

"I know." William flashed a dimple, but he continued to read.

"Am I distracting you?" Lizzy wanted nothing more than to distract him. He had been reading Danielle's report for the better part of an hour.

"No." William managed to kiss the top of Lizzy's head without losing his place. He sighed and turned the page.

"I love you, William."

"I love you, Lizzy."

"Would you buy me a car?"

"What kind?" Lizzy squinted at William. To look at him, one would never believe he could concentrate while Lizzy squirmed and fidgeted and taunted him. But William had perfected his technique for focusing amid far greater distractions. He had spent several summers at the Fitzwilliam family compound, where he read Shakespeare while Richard, Matt, and David Fitzwilliam cavorted, caroused and roughhoused in the cottage that had been designated as the dormitory for the boys. Richard and William were of an age, Matt, five years younger. David, the youngest of Stewart Fitzwilliam's children, was allowed to stay with the big boys, but because he was always the target of Richard and Matt's teasing, he was always howling as William tried to concentrate. He learned to shut out the distractions and focus, a skill that had served him well over the ensuing years.

"I don't know...how about my own limo and driver?"

"Do you want a Mercedes like mine or would you like a Town Car?"

"Can the driver be British?"

"That would depend on his parents, my darling."

"No, instead of a limo, how about a motorcycle?" William smiled.

"Somehow I can't see you as a Lady HOG." Lizzy looked up at William.

"What's a Lady HOG?"

"A HOG is a member of the Harley Owner's Group. A female Harley owner is called a Lady HOG."

"Suppose I wanted a Yamaha? I wouldn't have to be a HOG, then," she said distastefully.

"You don't want a Yamaha. You said you wanted a motorcycle. A motorcycle is a Harley Davidson, a BMW, or even better, a classic Indian Head," William said wistfully.

"Oh." Lizzy rose and changed the CD and sat back down.

"Hmm. You once offered me real estate."

"You want the house in Vermont?" William turned a page.

"I was thinking of the Taj Mahal," Lizzy quipped. William raised a single eyebrow.

"I don't believe the owners wish to sell. But I can have a scale model built for you."

"How big?"

"How big do you need?"

"Can I have it the size of a dog house?"

"Done and done"

"And may I have a dog?"

"Not if it's a Chihuahua!"

"You said I could have anything I wanted for Christmas," Lizzy pouted.

"I know, but everyone has his limit, Lizzy. Mine is a Chihuahua." Lizzy laughed so hard she nearly fell off the couch. William smiled.

"Hey," Lizzy asked when her laughter had subsided. "What do you want for Christmas, Will?" William put the report down and glared at Lizzy over his glasses.

"You haven't gotten me a present yet? Christmas is two weeks away!"

"Well, no, and don't think I haven't tried. I've been in every store in this town and a few others and I've wracked my brains to no avail. I have no clue as to what to give you. And why are you looking at me like that? You haven't gotten me a present yet, either!" Lizzy exclaimed, amused that he chose that moment to stop reading.

"Yes, but I knew that I was going to ask you to choose your own gift," William reminded her. "You simply gave up too easily and now you're trying to accuse me of doing the same thing." William extricated himself from his cozy position to go answer the door. He reappeared a minute later with two shopping bags.

"What's that?" Lizzy asked.

"Dinner; I gave Mrs. Reynolds the night off and ordered out. Come on," William urged with a jerk of his head. Lizzy rose and followed William to the kitchen, where he unpacked the bags while she collected plates and glasses.

"That doesn't look like any take-out I've ever seen," Lizzy commented when William pulled a bottle of wine out of one of the bags.

"Most people have no imagination when it comes to take-out; I don't see why eating in should mean that I have to compromise. Even the best restaurants will do take-out if you ask, you know." Within minutes, Lizzy and William sat down to a dinner that rivaled anything Lizzy ever had in a restaurant.

"Will Mrs. Reynolds be with us for Christmas?" William nodded. "So what are you giving her?"

"Don't try and change the subject. We were discussing your present for me."

"And your present for me," Lizzy reminded him.

"Oh, I know what I'm giving you," William replied as he cut into his medallion of beef.

"And that would be?"

"Whatever you want."

"Hello?" Olivia glanced at the clock as she answered the phone. It read 7:00 a.m.

"Did I call too early? I wanted to catch you before you went to work."

"I work at home, Richard," Olivia reminded him. Her eyes moved from the clock to the calendar on the wall. It was Friday the fifteenth!

"I know that but I wouldn't want to interrupt your work," he countered reasonably. Richard was hanging upside down as he spoke. He had just completed two sets of sit-ups and thought he'd call Olivia before he started his next station on the circuit trainer.

"At the moment, you're only interrupting my bath, and it and I are getting cold as we speak. Can I call you back in about a half an hour?" Olivia heard a small thud as Richard dropped the phone.

"I...I thought that I was supposed to be the one doing the calling today." His reply started off with Richard sounding far way and ended sounding normal again.

"Consider your obligation discharged. I'll call back in a bit." Olivia hung up and pulled off the top half of her pajamas. She quickly ran back into the bathroom and stepped into the steaming scented waters. She sank down until only her head and neck were above water. It was only then that Olivia realized what she had said and that Richard had dropped the phone. "Well, it's too late to take it back now," she blushed. She closed her eyes and soaked for a few minutes before she washed up and prepared herself to face the day. The phone was already ringing by the time Olivia descended the stairs. She went into her office and, laughing, picked up the receiver.

"I thought we agreed that I would call you back, not the other way around!"

"Huh?" Jane said.

"Oh! Jane! I...to what do I owe this pleasure?" Olivia managed.

"I hope it isn't a problem, my calling at this hour. Lizzy told me that you're an early riser."

"I am. What's up?" Olivia asked more composedly. She turned to her computer and read her e-mail as Jane explained her reason for calling.

"Charles and I had dinner with Richard last night and he invited us to the Fitzwilliam/Fitzwilliam Christmas party and I'm sure that he included you in the invitation because I told him that you'd be in New York and he smiled when I mentioned your name."

"Yes?" Olivia sighed, as she clicked on Richard's message.

Sorry about interrupting your bath...that's probably going to bother me all day. Olivia quickly covered her mouth to suppress the giggle that spilled from her lips.

"Well, I know that you and Lizzy planned on baking cookies on Monday night and I thought that if I could persuade you to postpone it for a day you could go with us to Richard's party."

"But I've been invited to the DARCO party on Tuesday night, and since I'm going to be on DARCO's payroll, I think I need to be there to meet a few of the people I'll be working with." Olivia tried to think of a suitable reply to Richard, but another e-mail appeared before she could begin composing one:

It's 7:34, young lady. I don't know what that translates to in Elverson time, but in my neck of the woods, that makes you late with your promised call back!

I'm on the phone with Jane. SHE CALLED ME about coming to your party on Monday night.

Jane thinks very highly of you. In fact, she has spoken of little else the last dozen or so times I've spoken to her. Do come to the party. You'd make both Jane and me happy! In fact, I should have thought to invite you myself...I guess my mind was on more important things.

"Olivia?"

Such as?

"Olivia?"

Wednesday night!

"Olivia, are you there?"

"Oh...I'm sorry. I was putting on water for tea," Olivia said, quickly going into the kitchen and doing just that. "What did you say?"

"I was just suggesting that you and Lizzy bake on Wednesday night and that way you could go to both parties." Olivia snorted derisively, and quickly covered herself by pretending to cough.

"I...uh...don't worry about the baking; Lizzy and I will figure it out."

"Okay," Jane said, "But no matter what you do, be sure to keep Monday open." When Jane hung up, Olivia went back into the office with her tea. She looked in her online address book for Richard's home number. When she found it, the phone rang before she had a chance to dial.

"Hi, Livy! Jane told me she just spoke to you about our baking session. Don't worry about me; my schedule is clear for Wednesday night."

"Hello, Lizzy," Olivia stalled as she typed away furiously.

Now Lizzy's on the phone and she wants me to bake cookies with her on Wednesday night so that I'll be free to go to your party on Monday!

Say no! Olivia dutifully waited for Lizzy to give her an opening (she didn't bother to pay attention to a word Lizzy said) before she obeyed Richard's edict.

"I can't bake on Wednesday, Lizzy. I have plans." Olivia knew that she was in for an inquisition.

"Plans? With whom?"

"You aren't the only person I know in New York, Lizzy."

"I do realize that. I was just wondering if you were seeing anyone I knew."

"Oh, all right," Olivia capitulated, anxious to get it over with, "I'm going out with Richard. Is that what you wanted to hear?"

"Music to my ears! Where are you going?"

"I don't know."

"Don't you ever ask questions?"

"I guess I'm not as nosy as some people. In fact, I rather like being surprised," Olivia confessed, but Lizzy was already gushing with enthusiasm.

"But he invited you out, that's what counts! That's so cool; I knew he'd come around! I knew that the two were destined for one another." Olivia rolled her eyes.

I told Lizzy that I'm seeing you on Wednesday. She'll be ranting for several minutes.

I thought we agreed to keep things quiet for a while. By the way, was it a bubble bath? Olivia giggled.

"Livy, you're not listening to me!" Lizzy complained.

"Why should I? I've already heard everything you have to say on the subject," Olivia retorted.

It would be impossible to keep Lizzy and Jane from finding out about our date while I'm living under their roof.

"Why don't you just admit it; you're falling for the guy?"

"Lizzy, if I admit that, will you promise to leave me alone on the subject of Richard Fitzwilliam forever, and I mean until death?" Olivia read the screen in the ensuing silence.

You do realize what we're in for.

"Well?" Olivia pressured Lizzy.

"I'm thinking, I'm thinking!"

It's inevitable, don't you think?

"Just admit that you're an incorrigible busybody then and let me go eat my breakfast," Olivia laughed.

"What about our cookies? You were going to help me bake some for the block association party! We're supposed to leave for Connecticut on Thursday, so we won't have time to make them if you go to both parties and have a date with Richard."

Well, let Jane and Lizzy carry on all they want to! You and I are going out on Wednesday night, and that's the important thing.

"Okay, I'll call Richard and cancel," Olivia replied airily. Lizzy let out a scream and Olivia laughed.

"Or I can come up Sunday instead of Monday and we can bake then."

I think I may be coming to New York a day earlier then expected so that I can do some baking.

"That's better," Lizzy sighed. Olivia told her that she'd have to call the pet boarding service to make sure it was okay to bring her cat in a day early.

Cool! Can I come by and refill my container? Need a taster...someone to lick spoons, do dishes, eat the rejects, and mop your lovely brow?

"I'll drop you a line later." She was forced to endure more of Lizzy's gushing before she got off the phone and went into the kitchen to get a muffin to go with her tea. She returned to her office and dialed Richard. The phone rang several times before she got his voice mail.

"Where'd you go? I'll try you on your cell phone." Olivia said, and hung up. The cell phone only added to her frustration. Richard had apparently shut his phone off. Olivia went to her laptop and typed a message:

I have dispensed with all of my morning callers so I could finally call you back and then you disappeared! Where are you?

Olivia pouted and turned her attention to work. She tried Richard's number twice more, to no avail. She had trouble concentrating on her work, but she managed to get a few things done. When she took a break to make some more tea, the phone rang. Olivia dove back into her office and grabbed the phone.

"Good morning," Richard said, and Olivia could hear the smile in his voice.

"Where on earth have you been?" Olivia cried.

"Fitz and I had to host a holiday breakfast this morning and pass out bonuses to the staff."

"Sounds like a fun morning," Olivia remarked.

"It was. Fitzwilliam/Fitzwilliam turned a tidy profit this year and I was happy to share it with the people who made it possible. So what was that thing about cookies you mentioned this morning, and more importantly, what time should I be there??"

"Lizzy asked me if I would help her bake cookies for her block association party when I came up to New York. She won't be in town for the actual party--we'll all be in Connecticut--but she wanted to contribute something. We had planned on doing our baking on Monday, but then Jane told me about your party on Monday and she called and suggested that I bake on Tuesday. But Tuesday is the night of the DARCO party, and I can't miss that. Jane apparently talked to Lizzy and the Lizzy called me and suggested that we bake on Wednesday night. I had to tell her I was busy that night and--."

"I get the picture. So you'll come up on Sunday and bake, and then you'll be free to attend both parties and make our date on Wednesday," Richard surmised.

"That's the plan."

"Would you like me to meet you at the airport?"

"I'm taking the train and, thank you, but Lizzy will meet me at Penn Station. I'll be carrying a lot of stuff. But do come by the house later. I'd like that. I should be at Lizzy's by one."

"I'll put it on my schedule. And speaking of schedules, I believe we have a matter of business to discuss."

"Do we?" Olivia asked ingenuously.

"I believe that today was the day when we were supposed to plan a date for after Christmas," Richard said indulgently.

"Oh. Well, don't you want to wait and see how the first one goes?" Olivia teased.

"Actually, I'm rather inclined to book all of your free time until spring just on the likelihood of things going rather well."

"You flatter me, sir. But what makes you think that I'll be as pleased with my date as you seem to be prepared to be with yours?" Olivia smiled as she heard Richard gasp and then quickly recover himself. Someone was apparently in his office. He asked Olivia to hold on for a moment. She heard him speaking in low tones for a minute and then he returned his attention to his call.

"Now, where were we? Oh, yes," Richard said and then gasped once more. "You cut me to the quick!" Olivia was amused by Richard's acting abilities and told him so.

"I'm not acting!" he insisted. "I am a most satisfactory companion!"

"Yes, I'm sure you are. Three thousand women can't be wrong," Olivia laughed. "Why do I get the impression that you were the kind of guy I despised in high school: big man on campus, captain of the football team...the kind of guy who only dated the most popular girls in his class and wouldn't--."

"Give a girl like you the time of day?" Richard laughed. "I admit to being something of a reformed womanizer, but your depiction of me is somewhat flawed. I attended an all-male prep school where the concept of big man on campus was moot. Everything that would give a guy that status--nice car, money, good family, etc.--was kind of the norm among my peers. And we didn't have a football team. I played lacrosse...rather poorly, I might add."

"I don't believe that for an instant, but back to the matter at hand. Assuming things go well on Wednesday, what do you have in mind for our second date?"

"Ah, I've given the matter some thought. Twenty-sixth of December: there'll be snow on the ground so I think we should make that hike on cross-country skis. We'll picnic in the woods and then return to the comfort of a roaring fire and cocoa. I'll tell you horrifying stories of our adventures on Suicide Hill and you'll tell me about how you and Lizzy made snow angels as children. And then, for dinner, we'll repair to an inn at Litchfield where the duck is excellent, the desserts are legendary, and the setting is wildly romantic."

"Sounds as though you do expect our first date to go well if you're planning dinner in a 'wildly romantic' setting," Olivia quipped.

"I...excuse me a moment...I think I'll have to take that matter up with you later. Fitz is about to drag me off to another meeting." Richard said goodbye and rose to accompany William to the conference room.

"Who was that?" William asked out of curiosity.

"That was Olivia. She's coming to our party on Monday night."

"Good. She'll be here Tuesday as well." William paused and regarded Richard's enigmatic smile. Satisfied with what he saw, he dropped his question and quickened his pace to the meeting that Richard was now ten minutes late for.

"Stupid...train...twenty minutes...unh...late!" Lizzy lugged Olivia's large suitcase up the steps and out to the corner of 32nd Street and Eighth Avenue, where William was waiting in his car. Olivia followed her, a bit ungracefully, attempting to manage two large shopping bags. William got out of the car and loaded the trunk. In minutes, the car was heading toward Brooklyn.

"I think my left arm is longer than it was when I left Pennsylvania, but other than that, I'm fine," Olivia replied to William's polite inquiry.

"That isn't your baking hand on that arm, is it?"

"I'm a two-fisted baker, William. Don't panic," laughed Olivia. "Besides, I've got Lizzy by my side, and three hands are better than one." William glanced at Lizzy doubtfully.

"Hey, I can bake a mean cookie," Lizzy cried in her own defense.

"I'm sure you can," William smiled, "But who wants a mean cookie?" Olivia laughed and Lizzy begrudgingly laughed too, until an idea took hold of her. She pulled out her cell phone and dialed a number. In his car about a mile and a half behind her, Richard looked at his caller ID and decided to let his phone ring.

"Who are you calling?" William asked, as Lizzy put away her phone.

"No one...I...just had an idea." The car pulled up in front of the house and after unloading the bags William was able to park down the block. He went into the house and offered to carry the bags up to Olivia's room. Lizzy took one of the shopping bags from him and led the way. Olivia repaired to the kitchen and put on water for tea.

"Too bad Richard isn't answering his phone. I wanted to invite him over," Lizzy confessed in the privacy of Olivia's room. William rolled his eyes.

"Lizzy, they'll see each other tomorrow. Give it a rest.

"I just thought it might be fun if he baked cookies with us."

"Well, I for one am glad he's not here," William said, sitting on the bed and pulling Lizzy close. "More cookies for me." Lizzy pretended to be displeased with his remark, but she couldn't keep up the pretense in the face of William's charm. She allowed his kisses for a moment, then gently pulled away and reminded him that Olivia was awaiting them. William reluctantly turned Lizzy loose and followed her down the stairs. When they entered the kitchen, much to their surprise, they found Richard sitting at the table smiling at Olivia. Lizzy's face lit up.

"Richard! What a surprise! What are you doing here?"

"I thought you wanted Richard to...oof!" William felt the point of Lizzy's elbow in his ribs.

"I heard a rumor that cookies were being made here. I need a refill," Richard said, holding up his cookie tin, where only three cookies remained.

"I'll say," William exclaimed as he grabbed one of the cookies. Richard picked up an oven mitt and flung it William.

"Gentlemen!" Olivia asserted sternly. "If you two want to stay in this kitchen, you'll have to behave." They dutifully went to wash their hands while Lizzy and Olivia assembled the ingredients.

"Exactly how many people are in this block association? You have enough to feed an army here," William exclaimed, overwhelmed by the amount of flour, eggs, oatmeal, butter, and sugar Lizzy heaped on the counter.

"Actually, there is only enough for a few hundred cookies," Olivia replied matter-of-factly. "Some are for the block association, some are for us, and I thought I'd make some butter cookies to take with us to Connecticut." The four divided into two teams. Richard and Olivia made six successive batches of batter while William and Lizzy formed the cookies and tended them while they were in the oven. They labored amid much banter and an occasional outburst. Richard and William determinedly licked every spoon and bowl, and Lizzy managed to convince them that she had locked the door to the dining room to prevent them from sampling cookies while they cooled on racks on the table. Olivia was shocked that Lizzy's tactic was successful, since there was no lock on the door.

When the oatmeal cookies were done, Lizzy rewarded her helpers with cups of cocoa and cookies. William and Richard retreated to the living room while Lizzy and Olivia packed away some cookies for the party, some for each man, and some for the house. When they were done and finally able to sit down, Lizzy and Olivia pleaded fatigue. Olivia complained that her feet were so tired that she would put off baking the butter cookies until later.

"I'll massage your feet for an extra ration of cookies," Richard offered. Olivia didn't hesitate to accept his offer. She placed her feet in his lap and closed her eyes and lay back as his massaged first one, then the other foot.

"Hey! How come he gets to have extra cookies just by playing up to her? It's not fair!" Richard stuck out his tongue at William, and Lizzy and Olivia exchanged a look and shook their heads as William continued to complain. Finally, Olivia held up a hand and offered William extra cookies if he promised to be completely silent for five minutes. The only sound that was heard in the room was a single "Mmmm."

Continued In Next Section