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Chapter 4 ~ Bartender's Drink

Posted on Friday, 4 April 2003

I do not want people to be very agreeable, as it saves me the trouble of liking them a great deal.
~ Jane Austen: Letters to her sister, Cassandra, December 24, 1798.

"Elizabeth, I just wanted to thank you again for helping out tonight. I know you have that respectable job now, but I appreciate it whenever you can help."

"You know I'm never too busy to help you out."

"That's very kind of you. I just don't want you to feel obligated to help. I know you have that job-"

Elizabeth stopped polishing the bar. "Mr. Lucas, let's get one thing straight. I'm never too busy to help you out. Without you, I wouldn't have gotten that respectable job."

Mr. Lucas gave her a curious look. He said, "Me?"

"Yes. If you hadn't given me a job here, I wouldn't have met Richard, and he wouldn't have offered me a job. So, as far as I'm concerned, I'm in your debt."

Mr. Lucas laughed. He said, "Whatever you say, Elizabeth." He looked over at his daughter. "Charlotte, when is that man of yours coming in?"

Charlotte's cheeks turned red. She said, "Dad!" She looked at the people sitting at the bar who did not seem to hear what her father said. She removed some empty glasses off the bar before she walked over to Elizabeth and her father and said, "He's not my man."

"Right."

Charlotte elbowed Elizabeth. She said, "We just started dating." After she served a drink to a customer, she said, "And don't you guys say anything like that when Richard gets here."

Mr. Lucas held his hand up. He said, "Say what?"

"Dad."

"Alright." He squeezed his daughter's shoulder. The bell on the door started ringing at shorter intervals, alerting them that the evening rush had started. Mr. Lucas said, "Looks like we need to be on our toes."

A steady stream of customers walked in to the bar, first filling up the bar stools and then the tables. There were a few servers who waited on the tables, but the bar was left up to Mr. Lucas, Charlotte, and Elizabeth.

Whenever Mr. Lucas had the run of the bar, he always had some Big Band music playing in the background. Right now he had Glenn Miller's 'String of Pearls' playing. Although most of the customers were not of the same generation, the music helped create the cozy atmosphere the bar was so well known for. When it was filled to capacity, which was often, it got quite busy.

Elizabeth and Charlotte worked side by side to a rhythm which showed their familiarity in working the bar. If Charlotte needed to mix a drink, Elizabeth had the liquor bottles ready. If Elizabeth needed something on tap, Charlotte was already pouring it into a frosty pint. While they worked, Mr. Lucas collected the money and made change when necessary. They worked well together and Mr. Lucas could not help feeling a twinge of nostalgia for earlier times similar to this moment.

They all worked like this for about half an hour before the pace slowed down. When it did, it allowed some time for conversation.

After Charlotte served a pint to another customer, she said, "So, what were you talking about earlier? About lunch?"

Elizabeth topped off a drink and served it to a woman. Then she turned to Charlotte and said, "You'll never guess who I had lunch with."

"Well, if I can't guess, why don't you just tell me."

Elizabeth let out a small laugh. She said, "Alright. Do you remember that show about the poor little orphan, Johnny, who got adopted by that rich father, Mr. Edwards?"

Charlotte thought for a moment before she said, "Oh, yeah. Maria used to watch that show all the time and before you knew it he grew up and was kind of hot." They both laughed. Charlotte waited for Elizabeth to continue, but she did not. When Charlotte looked at her, she saw the familiar playful smile on her lips. Then understanding hit her.

Charlotte said, "No way!"

Elizabeth nodded.

"How?"

"He came in this morning to speak to Richard."

"Why did he want to talk to Richard?"

"I don't know, but apparently Richard's known him since he was a kid."

"Really?" Charlotte cleared some empty glasses off the bar. "I guess it's something that you just don't bring up in normal conversation."

"Yeah, I guess."

"So. . ."

"What?"

"Come on, Elizabeth. What was it like?"

Elizabeth served a glass of wine before she said, "It was interesting."

"Interesting? That's all you have to say? Interesting."

"Maybe it was a little more than interesting."

"Elizabeth, tell!"

Elizabeth laughed and then said, "Alright. Alright." She served some pint glasses and a pitcher of beer before she continued, "It was a little strange at first, going out with Johnny, but eventually you get over it."

"What's he like? I mean, aside from being good looking."

She laughed again. Elizabeth said, "He's charming. He talks to you like you're the only person in the world. He also has this look."

"Look?"

"When you're talking to him, he looks at you like. . ."

Charlotte giggled at Elizabeth's preoccupation.

Elizabeth shook her head. She said, "What was I saying?"

"He has this look."

"Oh, yeah. He seems really nice. . ."

"But?"

"I don't know. He started telling me about his relationship with Richard and Mr. Darcy."

"Mr. Darcy? Do you mean Richard's cousin William?"

"Yeah."

"What did he say?"

"Some stuff about how their parents all knew each other and how his dad used to work for Mr. Darcy's dad. I think he was an editor or something."

Charlotte served more drinks, waiting for Elizabeth to continue.

"Anyway, I guess their fathers were good friends too. But, something happened between him and Mr. Darcy and when George's father died, Mr. Darcy wouldn't give him his trust fund."

"Mr. Darcy? William's father?"

"No. William himself."

"Why do you call him Mr. Darcy?"

"Because only friends call each other by their first names."

"Why do you hate him so much?" Charlotte looked at Elizabeth. "Don't tell me you believe George Wickham."

Elizabeth shrugged and took a customer's drink order. Charlotte waited until she was finished and continued, "You just met George today. How can you believe him?"

"I don't really believe him, but. . ."

"What?"

"Why would he make up something like that? And it would make sense why he was at Richard's office."

"I thought you said you didn't know why he was there."

"I don't, but before he left he was talking to Richard and he told George he should find a different way to make ends meet and that if he wanted he could have a job there."

"Then what happened?"

"George said he didn't want a job there and Richard said he'd ask him about something. I don't know what though."

"Him?"

"Our great leader, I suppose."

"That whole story sounds questionable."

Elizabeth wiped down the beer taps. After a moment, she said, "Richard did say something about him that I . . ."

"What did he say?"

"I got the impression that Richard doesn't trust him."

Charlotte cleared some more empty glasses and waited for Elizabeth to continue.

"Richard said he wasn't friends with George. And I know Richard, he's friends with everyone."

Charlotte nodded. She said, "True." She looked at Elizabeth. "That still doesn't explain why you don't like Mr. Darcy."

Elizabeth chuckled. She said, "He. . . he said I was a liar and I had no sense of loyalty."

Charlotte blinked several times. She said, "He said that to you?"

"No. Not exactly."

"Then-"

"What does it take to get a drink around here?"

Charlotte looked at the source. She said, "We only serve respectable people here."

Elizabeth said, "Didn't you see we were having a conversation?"

"Where's the manager?"

Mr. Lucas walked over. He said, "They giving you a hard time, Richard?"

"I can't seem to get a drink." A corner of his mouth pulled up. He said, "And for that, I think they owe us a round of Bartender's Drink."

At the mention of Bartender's Drink, the ladies groaned, but Mr. Lucas' eyes lit up. He said, "That's a fantastic idea. We haven't had a round of Bartender's Drink in a long time."

Before the ladies could object, Mr. Lucas rang the brass plated bell behind the bar.

"Ladies and gentlemen! Tonight we have a treat for you. Right now we're having a round of Bartender's Drink." He held up his hand towards Elizabeth and Charlotte. "If you folks order the bartenders' favorite drink, your next drink is free or," Mr. Lucas grinned and then said, "You'll receive a prize from the bartender."

Mr. Lucas switched the music and a sultry drum beat accompanied by the sound of fingers snapping blared throughout the bar. Then Peggy Lee's seductive voice echoed with the music.

Never know how much I love you.
Never know how much I care.
When you put your arms around me
I get a fever that's so hard to bear.
You give me fever.

Those who were familiar with this game were already at the bar ordering drinks. The others followed suit, eager to find out what the frenzy was about.

Elizabeth narrowed her eyes at Richard. She said, "You are so dead."

He laughed and then said, "Now may I have my drink?"

Before she could tell him what he could with his drink, Charlotte placed a pint of amber colored beer in front of him.

Richard said, "This doesn't happen to be the Bartender's Drink."

Charlotte gave him a small smile. She said, "You wish." And walked away.

He frowned.

Elizabeth said, "Hey, you're the one that started it."

Richard continued to frown. After a moment, he said, "I just hope whoever orders her drink, they ask for the free drink."

Elizabeth laughed.

Mr. Lucas rang the brass bell again. He said, "It looks like someone ordered one of the Bartender's Drink."

Elizabeth and Richard looked and they saw Charlotte was waiting on a young woman. Charlotte asked the woman, "Would you like a free drink?"

The young woman was unsure what to do. The young man she was with leaned over to her and whispered something in her ear. She blushed and then smiled. She said, "Yeah. I'll take that drink."

There was a general, "Aww!" going around the bar, but Mr. Lucas said, "Don't worry! There's still one more bartender."

Elizabeth shook her head, careful not to take too many drink orders. But, it could not be avoided because just then a certain gentleman entered the bar and Richard insisted that Elizabeth assist him.

"Elizabeth!"

She walked over, but when she saw who was sitting with Richard, she stopped in mid-stride.

Richard said, "Come on! William doesn't have a drink."

Elizabeth forced herself towards them.

William said, "Hello."

Elizabeth nodded. Then she said, "What can I get for you?"

He looked at the taps. When he decided, he said, "How about a Guinness."

Mr. Lucas rang the bell. He said, "We have another winner!"

You give me fever when you kiss me.
Fever when you hold me tight.< br > Fever< br > In the morning.< br > Fever< br > All through the night.

William looked around. When he realized it was him, he looked at Richard and said, "What's going on?"

Richard gave him a knowing smile. He said, "You ordered the Bartender's Drink."

Elizabeth served him his drink. She was reluctant to say, "Would you like a free drink?"

Then Richard added, "Or a prize from the bartender."

William took his drink. Everyone was looking at him, awaiting his answer. He looked at Richard.

Richard opened his mouth, but Elizabeth said, "Not another word."

William studied the both of them for a minute. Richard looked like he wanted to say something, but Elizabeth's glare kept him quiet.

She said, "Which will it be?"

He did not want another drink, so William said, "I want the prize."

Everybody's got the fever.
That is something you all know.< br> Fever isn't such a new thing.
Fever started long ago.

There was a roar from the other patrons. William was not sure why.

Then Elizabeth said, "Do you want to collect your prize now or later?"

The hard look on Elizabeth's face was enough to help him make a decision. William said, "Later."

Never know how much I love you.
Never know how much I care.
When you put your arms around me
I get a fever that's so hard to bear.
You give me fever.*

He watched Elizabeth walk away to help other customers. William turned to ask Richard what was going on, but he saw he was talking to the other bartender.

Then Richard turned to William and said, "Will, this is Charlotte Lucas."

He said, "Nice meeting you."

She said, "It's nice to meet you too, William."

Richard looked at Charlotte. "How much longer are you two going to be?"

"Not much longer."

"Well, when you guys are finished, will you join us?"

Charlotte looked at Richard for a moment who looked at her with soft eyes. She said, "Alright."

He gave her one of his charming smiles. Then he turned to William and said, "Let's go sit at a table."

William followed Richard towards a booth near a bay window. When they were seated and settled in, William said, "What's going on? What's the prize? And do you know Charlotte?"

Richard held up his hands. He said, "Whoa! One thing at a time."

"What's going on?"

"First, remember to collect your prize from Elizabeth later."

"Why?"

"Trust me. You don't want to forget."

He looked at him for a moment and then said, "Alright."

"Now," Richard gave him a small smile and said, "to answer one of your questions, yes. I do know Charlotte." Richard's eyes lingered on her before he said, "I'd like to know her better."

"Are you two. . ."

Richard snapped out of his daze. "We've been seeing each other. Just for a couple of weeks though."

"How come you didn't bring her on Sunday?"

"We'd only just met. I thought it would've been overwhelming to introduce her to my mom." He chuckled. "Didn't want to scare her off."

"Right." William sipped his drink. Then he said, "So, Charlotte is your girlfriend. Not Elizabeth."

"In manner of speaking, yes. I suppose so."

"I see." He sipped his drink again.

"It's funny." Richard chuckled.

"What?"

"Elizabeth picks that drink because no one ever orders it."

William looked at the dark, almost black liquid in his glass. He followed with his fingertip a bead of condensation that slid down the side of his glass. "I never thought drinking Guinness would bring me luck."

Richard wore an amused expression on his face. He said, "If I didn't know any better, I'd say you like Elizabeth."

"What?"

Richard laughed.

William cleared his throat, avoiding eye contact with people looking at them. He said, "What are you talking about?"

"It just seems you're interested in her."

"I. . . uh. . . never said that."

"Then why were you so interested in knowing more about her."

"Because I was under the impression she was your girlfriend and I thought she was cheating on you."

"Even if she was, what business is it of yours?"

William opened and closed his mouth several times. He knew his cousin was right, but he was also the type not to let bad things happen to people he cared for. "I'm sorry. It's just. . . I didn't want to see you get hurt."

"I appreciate the concern, but I think you need to concentrate on your own love life."

"There's nothing wrong with it."

"That's the problem. There's nothing there at all."

Again, William opened his mouth to say something contrary, but could not. Instead, he said, "I never said it was a problem."

Richard shook his head. "Of course not. You're the stoic one."

"Stoic?"

"Impassive. Unshakable. Impassioned. Man of Stone. Calm-"

"I am not."

"William, when was the last time you've been on a date?"

"I. . ."

"Exactly. If you can't remember, then it's been way too long." Richard waited for his cousin to say something, but when he did not, Richard continued, "I think it's great you're interested in Elizabeth. In fact, I think you couldn't have chosen someone better. I told you I trust her completely. I-"

"July!"

Richard looked at his cousin. "What?"

"Ha! July."

"July?"

"That's the last time I was on a date."

"William, we're near the end of October here. And what date?"

"It was with Julia."

"Julia. . .That wasn't a date."

"Of course it was."

"No. Having lunch in your office to discuss work is not a date."

"I. . ." William's brow wrinkled. "I guess you're right."

Richard shook his head. "At this rate-"

"I hate this." He gulped of his drink.

"It's not so bad."

"It's easy for you to say. You've always had a way with talking to people."

Richard chuckled. "You do to."

"Funny." He took another gulp of his drink. "Besides, she's your assistant."

Richard rested his elbows on the table. "So?"

"How would that look? Me dating an assistant."

Richard looked at William. "Careful."

William saw the warning look on his face. "I thought there wasn't anything between you two."

"There isn't. But, you'd stick up for Georgiana in the same way."

He looked at his cousin before he said, "I understand."

After a moment, Richard said, "You should try to get to know her. Talk to her."

William looked as if someone had just told him to run through the bar naked. "Talk to her?"

"Yeah. It's not as hard as you think."

"But-"

"That's what we're doing right now."

"This is different."

"No. Just talk to her." Before his cousin could say anymore, Richard tapped his arm. "They're coming over. Just act normal."

William looked up and saw that Charlotte was approaching with Elizabeth in tow. When they reached the table, they greeted each other. Charlotte took the seat next to Richard which left Elizabeth with the seat next to William. Elizabeth took the seat. She did not even try to hide her reluctance.

Richard said, "You guys need drinks?"

Charlotte shook her head. She said, "No. After a while, it's not very appealing."

"I think that's why Mr. Lucas allows his family to work behind the bar, so that they build up an immunity towards it."

Elizabeth's comment was met with good natured laughter by everyone at the table. The amused expression on William's face made Elizabeth shift in her seat. It was hard to be determined to dislike someone when they had such a pleasing expression on their face.

Richard said, "So, who's helping Mr. Lucas behind the bar?"

Charlotte said, "One of my brothers came in to help out."

"Is it Peter?"

"Yeah."

"I thought he had his own bar."

"He does, but there's someone he trusts who's watching over it." She saw the curious expression on Richard's face. She said, "My other brother Craig."

Richard laughed. Then he looked at William and said, "Charlotte has four brothers."

William said, "Are they all in the bartending business?"

Charlotte said, "No. My oldest brother David got out and has a nice job as a dentist."

"I see. So, what's your brother Peter's bar like?"

"His bar caters more towards the younger crowd. College age."

"And how's it doing so far?"

"Pretty well. He hasn't been lacking any customers and some times people from the movie studio near by make appearances which attracts more people. Eventually he wants to have local bands play there, but he has to get a license for hosting live entertainment."

"I didn't know you needed one."

"Yeah. It's kind of a pain especially if you're near a residential area which happens to be where my brother's bar is located."

"I see."

Richard watched Charlotte and William. He was pleased that William was making the effort to get to know Charlotte. Richard hoped William would give his approval even though he did not need it. He realized during their conversation that Elizabeth was also sitting idle. He did not understand why William was not trying to start a conversation with Elizabeth.

When there was a break in the conversation, Richard said, "Elizabeth, how long have you known the Lucases?"

Elizabeth looked at Charlotte and said, "I don't know. It feels like I've known Charlotte all my life."

Charlotte smiled. She said, "You're probably right. I remember when you moved in across the street. You were. . . three and I was six. Since then we've been friends."

"When I was old enough Charlotte's dad offered me a part time job here while I went to school." Elizabeth gave her a teasing smile. "Her brothers had abandoned ship."

Charlotte laughed. She said, "Well, David became a dentist. Peter and Craig wanted to open their own bar and Jim's trying to concentrate on school."

"Well, I suppose those are all good reasons."

William said, "So, you work for Richard and Mr. Lucas?"

Elizabeth hesitated before she answered, "Not exactly. I help out Mr. Lucas whenever he's short a bartender."

"How often is that?"

"Maybe three or four times a month."

Charlotte said, "Which reminds me. I should really push my dad into finding extra help."

Elizabeth said, "I'm happy to do it."

"I know, but I'm sure you have other things you'd rather be doing."

Elizabeth shook her head. "Like I said to your dad, I'm in his debt."

William said, "Debt?"

"He. . . That's how Richard and I met."

William sat up in his seat. "You two met here?"

Richard nodded. "I had found this place by accident. I was actually looking for Peter's bar." An idea crossed Richard's mind. He said, "Speaking of which, I'd like to talk to Peter. See how he's doing." Richard got up and Charlotte followed. When the other two moved to get up, Richard said, "Oh, you don't have to get up. We'll be right back."

They both took their seats again and watched the couple walk to the bar. Elizabeth never realized just how noisy a bar could be if all you did was sit and listen.

William was also aware of the silence between them. He did not know why it was so easy to talk to Charlotte. It was not that he did not want to talk to Elizabeth, he just did not know what to say. He knew something had to be said.

"Uh. . . you seem to know you're way around back there."

"Yeah."

"Do you know a lot about. . . drinks?"

"Enough."

"I don't know that much."

Elizabeth did not say anything.

"Actually, I was surprised to see Guinness on tap here."

Again, she did not say anything.

"Because a lot of places don't have it on tap."

Elizabeth opened her mouth, but did not say anything. She struggled with whether or not to respond. Finally, being of a social nature, Elizabeth said, "Mr. Lucas wouldn't have it any other way. He said it's the only way to drink Guinness."

"He's right."

"I don't really like it though."

"It took me a while to appreciate it."

"Appreciate it?"

"I spent a whole summer learning to appreciate its finer qualities."

A corner of Elizabeth's lips were upturned. She said, "You spent a whole summer drinking Guinness?"

"I studied abroad in Ireland one summer. The locals wouldn't let me leave until I learned to drink something proper."

Elizabeth could not help herself and laughed. Then she said, "I suppose if you have a local village determined to set you right, there's nothing else to do but oblige."

"Right."

There was an awkward silence again. William watched Elizabeth struggle to say something. He decided to wait and hear what she had to say.

After a few seconds, Elizabeth said, "What was it like studying in Ireland?"

William leaned on the table with his elbows. "It was hard because I was young and I was used to spending my summers at home with my family." He turned his glass in circles. "But, I think it was good for me. Having that experience. I just wished I appreciated being there more."

Elizabeth caught the wistful look that crossed his face. Not liking to see sadness occupy anyone's time, Elizabeth said, "But, you just showed that you do have an appreciation for it."

William looked at the glass in his hand and at Elizabeth who gave him a playful smile. He chuckled and said, "True."

It was then that Richard and Charlotte returned to the table.

Richard took his seat. He said, "I didn't realize how well Peter's bar was doing."

Charlotte said, "My dad is very proud of him. I wasn't sure how it was going to work out, but it turned out better than expected."

William said, "Have any of you ever been to his bar?"

Richard said, "Charlotte and I have been there a few times. It definitely is for the younger crowd."

Charlotte stifled a yawn.

Richard said, "Tired?"

"Yeah. I had to get up early this morning for a meeting."

"I should have a talk with your boss."

"Will you? It would've been nice if I could've actually gone to the meeting."

Elizabeth said, "What did she have you do this time?"

Charlotte said, "Sort through some manuscripts."

Elizabeth shook her head. "You didn't have to come in early for that." Then she said, "What kind of stuff did you see?"

Charlotte shrugged. "Lots of magic and wizards stuff."

Elizabeth said, "Not surprising with the recent interest in Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings."

William listened to their conversation with genuine interest. It sounded like Charlotte worked for a children's publishing department. Perhaps she was an assistant, but for whom? When there was a break in the conversation, William said, "Charlotte, who do you work for?"

Charlotte smiled and then said, "Technically, I work for you."

William blinked several times.

Then Charlotte said, "Actually, I'm Caroline's assistant."

"Caroline? Caroline Bingley?" He thought for a moment, before he said, "Come to think of it, why was she leading that meeting this morning? She's supposed to be in Human Resources."

Richard cleared his throat. He said, "That's something else I'll have to fill you in on." He looked at Charlotte and saw a sleepy expression in her eyes. He said, "But, it'll have to wait. I'm going to take Charlotte home."

Richard and Charlotte said their goodbyes and left. Elizabeth saw the confused expression on William's face.

She said, "You really don't know what's been happening these past few months?"

"Well, I didn't think anything was happening. According to my assistant, everything was fine."

"I don't think your assistant makes it downstairs that much."

"No, but when I talked to Charles and Richard they never. . ."

Elizabeth waited for him to continue.

After a moment, he said, "I suppose I never asked how they were doing."

Elizabeth was not sure how to respond. A part of her knew she should not be surprised that he was the type of man that could not be bothered with inconsequential details, but when she saw the confused look on his face, she thought perhaps he might actually want to know about the little things.

She said, "Are you all right?"

He shook his head. "Uh. . . yeah." He turned his glass in circles again before he said, "I know Richard said he would tell me what happened, but do you know what's going on with Caroline?"

"I don't know if I should. . ."

"Please."

He was not pleading or begging, but there was a sincerity, an interest in knowing what she had to say that moved her to speak.

"Remember how I said me and Richard met here?" He nodded. She continued, "Well, we got to know each other and I realized he was trying to get close to Charlotte. He was surprised to learn that she had been working for the company for some time. In fact, she had worked her way up from copy editor to assistant."

"I didn't know she worked for the company either."

"Well, when Richard found out, it gave him a way to get to know Charlotte." Elizabeth put her elbows on the table. "Charlotte knew that the editor at the time, Anne Elliot-"

"I remember Anne. She was excellent."

"Yes. Well, she left because she was moving to New York. Apparently, she had another offer there. So, Charlotte asked Richard who he had in mind to replace Anne."

"I can't believe he had Caroline in mind."

"No. It wasn't Caroline."

"Who. . ." He thought for a minute. He saw how Elizabeth shifted in her seat. "Was it you?"

"Actually, Richard didn't have anyone in mind until Charlotte mentioned me."

"Do you know anything about children's books?"

"Well, my degree is in English with an emphasis in education. But, my concentration is in secondary education which includes middle and high school. I know a little about children's books. I would have to say Jane's the expert on children's books, but I do have a background for young adult literature."

"But. . . Then how did. . ."

"To make a long story short, when I came in for the interview, I was told the position had been filled."

"Who told you that?"

"I didn't know it at the time, but it was Caroline. I had gone to Human Resources like Richard said to, but when I did, she was there and told me the job was already taken."

William let out a deep breath. Then he said, "I can't believe she. . ." He looked at her. "I'm sorry this happened. If I had known-"

Elizabeth waved her hand in the air. "Don't worry about it."

"But, if you're the more qualified-"

"I hadn't planned to be in publishing."

"What had you planned on doing?"

"To teach."

"Oh." He studied her for a moment. "Do you still plan to?"

"It's a possibility. When Richard offered me the interview, I had my degree and was getting ready to enroll in a teaching program, but. . ."

"And then you were reduced to an assistant."

She looked at him with a curious expression. Then she said, "I wouldn't say I was reduced to anything. I'm very happy with what I'm doing. If anything-"

William waited, but she did not continue. He said, "If anything?"

Elizabeth hesitated. She said, "I was going to say, if anything, this has given me an opportunity to see another possibility of where my life could lead."

He gave her a small smile. "I don't know a lot of people who would see the positive in something that has great potential to turn out bad."

"Bad? I've been given a chance to see what else there is in life besides being a teacher. I mean, I'm not saying that I'm changing my mind, but I don't think a lot of people get the opportunity to see their life from a different perspective."

"True."

For a moment, the unwavering look in his eyes made Elizabeth forget that she was an assistant who hated her billionaire boss. But, it was just a moment. "Maybe we should call it a night." She offered him a small smile. "We have work tomorrow."

He returned her smile. "Right."

They walked out of the bar, but stood in front of it.

William said, "May I walk you to your car?"

"Oh, I didn't drive. I walked."

"I can drive you home."

"It's alright. I don't live very far."

William looked around. It was dark and even though it was not a bad neighborhood, he could not in good conscience let Elizabeth walk home alone. "I'll walk you home.'

"I'll be fine. I've walked home alone before."

"But, you're not alone now."

Elizabeth's brow wrinkled. She thought about several arguments as to why she was perfectly capable of walking home alone, but the lateness of the hour was having an effect on her. Elizabeth's features relaxed. After sometime, she said, "Fine."

William walked beside her. He was not expecting her to oppose him.

She said, "Are you usually so. . . insistent?"

"Insistent? I never considered myself insistent."

"I don't think insistent was the right word."

"What would be the right word then?"

Elizabeth thought for a moment. Then a small smile appeared on her lips. She said, "I don't think I should say. Technically, you're my boss."

"Richard's your boss."

"In a manner of speaking, but I learned that it's you who's responsible for everything."

He did not say anything.

Elizabeth continued, "So, you'll understand if I don't want to call my boss stubborn. I wouldn't want to get in trouble or anything."

He chuckled and said, "Of course not." He looked at her. "On Sunday. . ."

"I was doing him a favor."

"A favor?"

"That's what friends do for each other."

"Does Charlotte know about this favor?"

"Sort of." Elizabeth hesitated. "I told her me and Richard were going to a conference."

"You lied to Charlotte?"

Elizabeth stopped in mid-stride and leveled a look at William. She said, "I suppose I did, but coming from me, I suppose it's no surprise to you."

William studied her face. He was almost mesmerized by the fire in her eyes. He said, "Actually it is. You seemed to be very good friends with Charlotte."

"We are." Elizabeth looked away and continued walking. "But, that's the way Richard wanted it."

"I suppose Richard will never realize just how much it bothers to you to have to lie to your friend."

"I think he does." She played with the zipper on her sweater. "He better." Then she stopped in front of a two- story apartment. "This is me."

William looked at the quaint Mission style stucco building. Then he realized that they walked over three blocks from the bar. He said, "This isn't as close as you lead me to believe."

"For LA, it is."

He nodded in agreement. Then he said, "Richard said not to forget to collect my prize."

Elizabeth's expression turned serious.

"Do we have to go back to the bar for it?"

"No."

William sensed Elizabeth's discomfort. "If it's too much trouble. . . Richard just said it was important that I-" He stopped mid-sentence because Elizabeth closed the distance between them. Elizabeth looked like she was struggling to say something. Just when William was about to ask if something was the matter, Elizabeth's lips were on his.

However, it was over before he could react. He stammered, "What-You kissed me."

"Yeah. That was the prize."

"That was the prize?" He looked at her lips before he said, "Has Richard ever received this prize?"

"No." Elizabeth's eyebrow curved when she looked at him. "But, his date did."

"His date?"

"She was already a little tipsy and Richard thought it was a bad idea to give her a free drink."

William processed this information.

"One of the good things that did come out of it was that his date at the time said I was a better kisser than Richard."

When he saw the amusement in her eyes, he laughed. Then he said, "So that's how you met Richard?"

She nodded.

"I can see why both of you are reluctant to share that story."

"Actually, I don't mind sharing it, but for some reason Richard would prefer not to."

He laughed again.

Elizabeth, charmed by his amused expression, could not help smiling. She liked that she could make him laugh. She liked how he looked at her with such good humor. She liked- No. Wait a minute.

Elizabeth wiped the smile off of her face. She said, "I have to get going." She turned away and walked up the steps to her apartment.

He said, "Goodnight."

Elizabeth turned to look at him and said, "Goodnight." Then she opened the front door and went in.

William slipped his hands into his pockets and walked back to his car. There were so many new developments everywhere with work, family, and friends. So much had happened in the last three months, but when he had returned, it felt as if he was still stuck in the time before he had left for the trip. It felt like he was left behind while everyone moved on with their life.

He got in his car and drove away. It bothered him a great deal, feeling left behind. It was him who usually did the leaving behind.

When he came to a red light, he rested his elbow on the window frame and placed his chin on his hand. His fingers brushed his lips which caused him to smile. Even though he was chafed by the glaring fact he'd been left behind, for the first time in the past few days, he felt like he might have a chance to catch up.

*Fever sung by Peggy Lee from The Martini Lounge Collection available at Target.

Chapter 5 ~ Collision Sport

Posted on Wednesday, 16 April 2003

Special thanks to Esther for allowing me to 'borrow' Gil. If you haven't read her story, "The Life and Opinions of Gilroy Hurst, Gentleman", go now! My Hurst is just a humble attempt at Esther's phenomenal Mr. Hurst. As far as I'm concerned, there can be no other Hurst. Also, there is some heavy tackling and Elizabeth uses the word a** in a fit of rage.

Football is not a contact sport. It's a collision sport. Dancing is a good example of a contact sport.
~ Duffy Daugherty, Michigan State University coach, 1967

Elizabeth sat back in her chair, watching the uniformed men on the TV screen collide into each other; their collective frenzied movement forming a gold, red, blue, and orange ripple on the turf.

"No! No! No!"

Elizabeth gave Mr. Hurst a sympathetic smile, but did not say anything. Instead, she returned her attention to the screen. Although she appeared to be engrossed in the game, Elizabeth was thinking about the last few days before she and Jane came to Charles' house for the weekend.

After the evening at The Assembly Room, Elizabeth went to work each day with a cautious mindset. The next morning after she had kissed Mr. Darcy, she realized she had made an irreparable mistake. His words still stung, but even though William probably did not believe she was a liar, Elizabeth felt that her behavior may have created another impression on him.

It was a harmless kiss. She repeated that mantra in her mind over and over. Nothing could be misconstrued by a harmless kiss.

She started her morning as usual, turning on her computer, checking her e-mail and voicemail messages. Once Elizabeth had everything checked, she walked into Richard's office to leave some memos for him to look over. She was surprised by not only Richard being in the office before her, again, but that William was in the office too.

Richard and William looked at Elizabeth.

"What are you guys doing here?"

Both of them chuckled at her comment. Richard said, "We work here."

"Yeah, but," She looked at her watch. "This is the second day in a row that you're here before me."

William said, "That's unusual?"

"Well, since I've-"

"Elizabeth, is there something you needed?"

She looked at Richard for a moment. She realized she probably should keep the information to herself about how Richard usually came in half an hour after she did.

Elizabeth said, "I just came in to leave some memos on your-I mean, with you." She walked over and handed them to him, avoiding eye contact with William.

Richard did not miss what happened. He said, "So, did you two have a good time after we left?"

Elizabeth wanted to wipe off the knowing look on Richard's face.

William said, "It was nice."

Richard saw Elizabeth's cheeks turn pink. He said, "Did you have a nice time too?"

She shifted in her spot. "Uh ...Yeah."

Richard said, "Just nice?"

Elizabeth tucked some hair behind her ear. "If there isn't anything else, I need to get back to work."

She walked out and for the rest of that day she was not bothered again about the previous night's incident. That was that day. Although the next incident happened the following day, she could not say for certain if it had to do with the night of the kiss or if it was just something random.

Elizabeth had been making copies of documents from the marketing department, various memos, and other miscellaneous items. Richard never said to, but she made copies of everything that he responded to. However, this task took some time, so she always made sure to make copies during the day when the copier was not used frequently which was at lunch.

Elizabeth was in the middle of making a copy when she turned around to get her water bottle from the counter next to the door, but she saw she was not alone.

"Mr. Darcy."

"Hello."

William was leaning against the doorframe. She waited for him to say something else, but he did not.

"Did you need to make a copy of that?"

"Copy?"

She pointed to the paper in his hand.

"Uh ... no. Well, actually, sure. Why not." He walked over to the copying machine and stood there for a moment.

Elizabeth said, "How many copies do you need to make?"

"Hmm? Oh, just one."

She watched him read the touch screen and then he looked over at the buttons on the panel. He looked back and forth at both several times.

She said, "Do you need help?"

"I didn't realize how ... complicated..."

She walked over and stood next to him in front of the copier. "I don't think this one's any different than the one upstairs."

"Upstairs?"

"You haven't seen it?"

When William did not say anything, she stared at him for a few seconds.

"Sarah usually..."

Elizabeth shook her head and snatched the paper from his hand. "It's not that hard." She lifted the lid and placed the paper on the glass and then she snapped it shut. She pointed to a green square button on the panel. "Push it."

William pushed it. The machine hummed and a bright light flashed. Then a piece of paper slid out the tray. He said, "Then what are all these other features for?"

"Well," She reached across and touched the screen, "You can make double-sided copies, collate, staple," Elizabeth looked at him. "There are lots of things you can do." She stepped back, realizing she could smell his cologne. "But, I guess if Sarah makes all your copies, you wouldn't know that."

He studied her face for a moment before he said, "Thanks for the lesson."

She watched him turn around and walk out the copying room, but he stopped at the doorway for a moment before he finally walked away.

Elizabeth returned her attention to the copying machine. She lifted the lid and saw that Mr. Darcy's original copy had been left behind. She grabbed it and rushed out to find him.

"Mr. Darcy!" She found him on his way to Richard's office.

He turned around. "Yes?"

"You forgot this." She handed him the paper.

He took the paper and waited for her to say something else. When she did not, he said, "Thanks." He looked at her one more time before he turned around and went to Richard's office.

Elizabeth walked back to the copying room. That was her last incident with Mr. Darcy for the rest of the week. She would not have given the last incident a second thought except that the paper he had made a copy of was an advertisement for a special rate this month at a gym.

"Why would he want a copy of that?"

"Huh?"

"What?"

"Did you say something?"

"Mr. Hurst, it's just..."

"What?"

"Last night at dinner, didn't your wife mention something about you doing some construction and remodeling at Mr. Darcy's house?"

"Yeah. He had the kitchen remodeled and added on a personal gym."

"That's right." She said, "When did you have your crew do that?"

"Last year."

"Then Mr. Hurst, why ... never mind."

Mr. Hurst popped a handful of nuts in his mouth. He chewed on them for several minutes until he could say, "Calmp mef Gilf."

She giggled. "Mr. Hurst, don't you know it's bad manners to speak with your mouth full?"

Mr. Hurst washed down the peanuts with a gulp of beer. Then he said, "Sorry. I was just saying call me Gil."

"Alright, Gil." She gave him a good-natured smile.

He watched a football rocket through the air only to be met with the turf in the end zone. "Damn!" Then he remembered he was watching the game with a woman. "Sorry, again. I forget you're a woman."

Elizabeth laughed.

"I mean, of course you're a woman. It's just ... most women, well, actually Louisa doesn't like to sit and watch the game."

"It's an acquired taste."

"And how did you acquire it?"

"Every Sunday. Some kids had catechism. I had football."

Mr. Hurst let out a hearty laugh.

Elizabeth joined in the laughter.

The housekeeper, Carmen, walked into the kitchen. "Be careful, Mr. Hurst. Mrs. Hurst might hear you and think you're feeling better."

Mr. Hurst's expression switched back to its I'm-not-feeling-well-so-I'm-going-to-watch-the-game-instead-of-touring-the-house-again look. He cleared his throat. "Thank you, Carmen."

She winked at him. Then she said, "Ms. Elizabeth, did you want more bread?"

"Oh, no. Thank you, Carmen. The sweet bread was delicious." She brought her plate to the sink. "I have to save room for dinner."

Carmen gave her a warm smile. She said, "I'll make sure to make enough Chile Relleanos for you, Mr. Hurst, and Mr. Bingley."

"Thank you, Carmen."

She bowed her head down in appreciation. Then she said, "Excuse me. I have to go check on the new maid." Carmen left the kitchen and Elizabeth took her seat next to Mr. Hurst.

She said, "What I miss?"

"Nothing. They screwed up the pass and the other team got a turn over."

"Excellent."

Mr. Hurst snorted and they watched the game in silence for some time.

Ever since Jane and Elizabeth arrived at Charles' home yesterday evening, each person had gravitated to someone else, forming contingencies within the house. By the next day, the groups had been defined.

Jane and Charles were one group which was no surprise. Louisa and Caroline had formed an exclusive group. Caroline had the more dominant role as the hostess. Then there was Elizabeth and Mr. Hurst. There was also, as Elizabeth liked to refer to him, Mr. Darcy.

Elizabeth knew she did not want to be a third wheel to Jane and Charles. She was very certain that she did not want to bear anymore of Caroline's insightful comments about life. Mr. Darcy seemed to prefer to stay in the study most of the time and even when he was not in there, she would rather take her chances with Louisa and Caroline.

This left Mr. Hurst.

It was a reluctant bond formed because it seemed they were the leftovers of what no one really wanted. It was not until last night at dinner that this bond took on a more favorable turn.

Elizabeth sat next to Mr. Hurst during dinner and they both were more interested in the food than conversation. Mr. Hurst knew what an excellent cook Carmen was and Elizabeth was intrigued by delicious aromas that emanated from the kitchen.

Mr. Hurst saw Elizabeth's interest. He said, "Do you like pork?"

Elizabeth stared at the man for a moment, unsure of how to respond. She hesitated before she said, "Not usually."

Mr. Hurst gave her a slight look of disapproval. He said, "It's quite underestimated."

"I didn't realize it had so much potential."

"I enjoy pork chops."

"Yes, well, pork chops can be good."

"Sometimes. I think that's what turns people off."

"Oh."

"You see, Carmen, makes this extraordinary dish."

Elizabeth turned to face him.

"It's called Milanesa." He rested his hand over his heart.

"That good, huh?"

He gave her a solemn look. "Just wait."

When Carmen brought out the main dishes, the famous Milanesa was among them.

Elizabeth said, "Carmen, may I try some?"

Carmen blinked several times. She said, "You'd like some?"

"Of course. Mr. Hurst highly recommended it."

She smiled. Then she served some to her.

Mr. Hurst watched her slice the tender breaded pork. Then she forked a piece of it and piled on a few pasilla roasted black beans with her serving. She devoured it, chewing with care, savoring the flavors.

"Well?"

When she finished the bite, she smiled and then said, "Mr. Hurst, I will never doubt your judgment again."

He could not help grinning at the fact that someone approved of his taste with genuine appreciation. Since then, they had formed an unspoken bond for the weekend.

"Gil, you know you're giving me bad habits."

"I don't know what you mean." He passed her a bag of fried pork rinds.

She took one out. "This is bad. Very bad." She ate it and then took a swig of his Pacifico.

"If you're going to watch the game, you have to drink beer and eat."

"No, you don't. I didn't before."

"That's a shame."

"This is a shame." She ate another pork rind and drank more of his beer.

"At least get your own beer."

"I can't drink one by myself. And besides I seem to only like beer with the pork rinds."

He chuckled.

"If we're going to sit here watching the game, preparing ourselves for a heart attack, we should at least make some effort to exercise."

Mr. Hurst did not say anything.

"Gil."

"Shhh. There's only two minutes left."

"In football time that's ten minutes."

He did not say anything.

"I think after the game, we should go outside and look at some of the landscaping that's being done."

"I do that at work."

"Then you won't have any trouble explaining things."

He grunted.

Elizabeth thought a moment. Then she said, "We're not going to have any room for Carmen's Chile Reallnos."

Mr. Hurst dropped the pork rind he had back into the bag. "That would be tragic."

"And we don't want to hurt Carmen's feelings."

"Absolutely not."

Elizabeth knew she had him, but they would have to wait until the game was over.

A few seconds later, Carmen walked into the kitchen in a mad fit, speaking in Spanish. The new maid also was speaking in Spanish, trying to keep up with the matron housekeeper.

"Gil, what's going on?"

He looked at Carmen pacing the length of the kitchen. "It looks like Caroline did something to set her off."

Elizabeth watched and listened. She did not know how to speak Spanish, but living in LA, where there is a large Spanish speaking population, a person picks up a few things. However, when picking up some foreign terms it's usually the colorful metaphors of the language that's learned first.

And Elizabeth was hearing a lot of them from Carmen.

She stifled her amusement.

Mr. Hurst said, "What?"

"Do you know any Spanish?"

"Not really."

"Oh."

"What?" He leaned closer and whispered, "Do you know what Carmen's saying?"

"Not exactly. But, she's awfully upset." Elizabeth lowered her voice. "Are you sure she's talking about Caroline?"

"She's the only one that can rub Carmen the wrong way."

Elizabeth covered her mouth.

"What?"

"Do you know what bruja* means?"

He shook his head.

Elizabeth whispered in his ear the answer.

"Oh."

"But, I'm not sure what anaranjada means."

"That means orange."

"Orange?"

They both looked at each other for a moment before Mr. Hurst tilted his head back and let out a laugh that caused Carmen and the maid to look at him.

"Mr. Hurst," Carmen approached the table, "Are you alright?"

"Yes." In between laughs, he said, "Fine."

Carmen's brow wrinkled.

He said, "Bruja." More laughter. "Caroline."

Carmen covered her mouth, but she said, "Oh no."

Elizabeth said, "Carmen-"

"I'm so sorry. I didn't mean what I said."

Mr. Hurst, attacked by a fit of laughter, could only wave his hands.

"I'm so sorry. Please don't tell Mr. Bingley."

Mr. Hurst's features became serious. "Why would I tell Mr. Bingley?"

"He's your brother-in-law and Ms. Bingley is your sister-in-law."

Mr. Hurst gave her a warm smile. "Carmen, if I could, I'd steal you away, but Charles knows how lucky he is and won't allow it." He was relieved to see Carmen's features relax. Then he said, "And don't worry about la bruja. Just be careful next time." He tipped his head towards Elizabeth. "Make sure you're not around people who might understand you."

Elizabeth said, "You'll have to teach me more Spanish in the future."

Carmen shook her head. The warm smile on her face put them at ease, but her smile soon disappeared. They followed her gaze to the door and saw that William was standing there.

Mr. Hurst said, "Hey, William. We're just watching the game."

He walked over to the counter where they were seated. "Looks like the game ended."

Mr. Hurst looked at the small TV. "I think you're right."

Carmen said, "Is there anything I can get you, Mr. Darcy?"

"I'm fine, Carmen."

She nodded her understanding and excused herself. The young maid scurried after her.

Mr. Hurst said, "You and Caroline have a knack for scaring off Carmen."

A mild scowl spread across his face.

Mr. Hurst chuckled and then said, "What brings you in here?"

William snuck a glance at Elizabeth. "Uh ... I was. . . in the study."

"Yes," Mr. Hurst raised an eyebrow at him. "But, what brought you out of the study?"

"Nothing in particular." William shifted in his spot. "I just-" He watched Elizabeth get and walk over to the sink to get a glass of water. "I was going to ask if you were interested in a game of football with me and Charles." Elizabeth returned to her seat. "But, I see that you're busy."

Elizabeth saw that William was taking an eyeful of the pork rind bag and the empty bottles of beer. "Pork rinds are deep-fried pig skins." She thought she saw a mild look of disgust on his face.

William looked at her. "I know."

"I just thought you-that maybe you had never-"

"I have."

"You have?"

"Yeah."

Mr. Hurst said, "When?"

William shifted in his spot. "In college."

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow. "College?"

"Yes."

"They have pork rinds at Harvard?"

Mr. Hurst laughed. William glared at him.

Elizabeth turned around, returning her attention to the T.V.

Mr. Hurst cleared his throat. "So, where's Charles?"

"He's in the study ... with Jane."

Mr. Hurst studied William for a moment. He could not tell if William was watching the football replays on TV or Elizabeth. Mr. Hurst said, "Actually, Elizabeth and I were going out for a walk."

"Really?"

Mr. Hurst hid his amusement at the way William's eyebrows perked up like a puppy given a bone. He said, "Yeah, she wanted to take a look at the landscaping that's being done in Charles' yard."

Elizabeth turned around to face them. "If you want to play football, that's alright."

William said, "A walk would probably be better."

Elizabeth looked at William with a soft wrinkle on her forehead. "Why would it be better?"

William gave Mr. Hurst a furtive glance. "It might be easier."

She stood up from her seat. "I'm sure Mr. Hurst is up to the challenge."

Mr. Hurst cleared his throat again. "Elizabeth-"

She raised her hand. "Or maybe he thinks I'm not up to the challenge."

William blinked several times. "I-"

Elizabeth looked at Mr. Hurst. "I think I'd prefer playing football rather than taking a walk." Both men spoke at the same time.

"But, you're a woman-"

"I'd rather go walking."

She said, "I'll be on Mr. Hurst's team." Mr. Hurst opened his mouth, but Elizabeth said, "I think it'd be better than walking." She walked towards the doorway. "I'll see you guys out there."

William and Mr. Hurst were left alone in the kitchen.

Mr. Hurst said, "Look what you did."

William looked at him. "Me? I-"

"I would've been fine staying here until dinner, but you had to-"

"I didn't do anything."

Mr. Hurst muttered. "It'd be easier." He rolled his eyes. "You might as well have said, 'Hurst can't even make it up the stairs in one breath.' "

"I didn't mean that." He studied the pattern on the Mexican tile floor. "And besides, I think she thought I was talking about her."

Mr. Hurst thought for a moment and then he shrugged.

William let out a low sigh. "I'll let Charles know we're expected outside."

"I wonder if Louisa will be upset that I'll be playing football with Elizabeth." Mr. Hurst shook his head in the negative. "I'll be out there in a minute." He walked out of the kitchen and upstairs to his room. Usually, football was just a leisure game of catch, however, he had a feeling that he needed to put on some clothes that would be appropriate for this particular football match.

When Mr. Hurst changed, he ventured out to the backyard. A cool breeze from the Santa Anas swept through the yard, making the sunny weather comfortable. Elizabeth was already present, stretching her legs.

"Mr. Hurst, I'm glad you got here before the others. Is there anything you can tell me about how they play?"

"Play?"

"Yeah. Strengths? Weaknesses?"

"Strengths? Weaknesses?"

Elizabeth stopped stretching. "You have played them before, haven't you?"

"If you call standing at one end of the yard while someone throws the ball at you, playing, then yes."

Elizabeth shook her head. "Who usually throws the ball?"

"William. Charles and I just take turns catching."

Elizabeth rested her hands on her hips. "Alright. How are you at throwing?"

"Fair."

"Running?"

"Not very good."

"I'll run then."

"Wait, why?"

"Running's part of the game."

"I know that, but ... are we playing an actual game?"

"Aren't we?"

"I thought we'd just be playing catch."

"But, now there's four of us which is enough for a game."

"Oh."

It was quiet for a minute.

Elizabeth said, "What's wrong?"

"It's just ...William doesn't like to lose."

"Neither do I."

Just then they heard William and Charles approach.

"Are we going to play a real game?"

"I think so."

"But..."

William did not say anything. He met Elizabeth with a steady gaze. He said, "Ready?"

She did not look away. "Yes."

Charles, standing behind William, said, "What exactly are we doing?"

Mr. Hurst said, "Playing football."

"Football football or just football."

"Football football."

"But," Charles looked at Elizabeth, then back at Mr. Hurst, "I don't think we've ever played with ... these conditions before."

Elizabeth broke away from William's glare to look at Charles. "I'll be fine." Then she looked back at William. "I've played before."

William said, "When?"

"In college." She looked at the football in his hands. "Since you have the ball, you guys can have first down." Elizabeth walked away, taking Mr. Hurst by the arm.

When they were some distance away from the other team, Mr. Hurst said, "Have you really played before?"

"Yeah." Elizabeth shrugged. "I played with some room mates." Before Mr. Hurst could ask any more questions, she said, "Look. We don't have a lot of time. I'll cover William. You cover Charles."

"Cover Charles?"

"You said that William usually throws, so your job is to make sure Charles doesn't get the ball."

Mr. Hurst took a deep breath. "Alright." Then he said, "What are you going to do?"

"I'm going to make sure the ball doesn't get thrown."

Before Mr. Hurst could say anything else, Charles said, "Ready?"

Elizabeth said, "Yes." They walked over and lined up on an imaginary scrimmage line.

Elizabeth watched William and Charles. From what she could tell, William would be throwing and Charles would be receiving. She could not help letting a small knowing smile spread across her face.

William saw the smile.

"Will?" Charles repeated himself. "William."

"What?"

Charles raised his eyebrow. "Is everything alright?"

"Yes." He walked a step away, ready to start. He counted and on the signal, Charles took off.

William watched Charles run up the middle and then break left. Mr. Hurst tried to block Charles, but he was not quick enough. William pulled his arm back, ready to throw the ball, but before he could, his face met the ground.

He turned over, confused about what had happened.

"Are you going to be alright?"

He blinked several times, looking up at that familiar knowing smile. "Yeah. I'm alright."

She held out her hand.

He took it.

Elizabeth pulled him up. "Second down." Then she walked away.

Mr. Hurst stared at Elizabeth with his mouth open.

She said, "He's not going to be so careless again."

William watched Elizabeth talk to Hurst.

Charles said, "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine."

"That was unexpected."

William glared at Charles who was stifling his amusement.

Charles cleared his throat and said, "What do you want to do next?"

William stood closer to Charles and told him of the next plan.

Elizabeth studied the other gentlemen. She said, "Whatever they decide, I think we should stick with the same person we were covering."

"OK."

"I think they think that we'll switch coverage."

"I see."

Elizabeth looked at him for a moment. "Do you want to do something different?"

Mr. Hurst held up his hands. "No. This is fine."

"Are you sure?"

"I think you're doing a great job." Elizabeth's brow was creased. He said, "Let's play."

Mr. Hurst decided that it would probably be best not to mention that William did not like surprises either. After all, he was having a pretty good time at little expense to himself.

Elizabeth watched the opposing team take the same positions. She did note that this time, however, William kept his eyes on her.

She waited until the signal was given again for Charles to run for the pass. Elizabeth gave William five seconds before she went after him again. However, this time when she lunged at him, he ducked away, and stepped right. Elizabeth was quick to adapt and followed his lead, but when she reached out for him, he side stepped her to the left.

William pulled back his arm to throw the ball, but then felt his midsection connect with Elizabeth's shoulder. He was on the ground, again.

"Are you going to be OK?"

"Uh..." It took him a second to realize that Elizabeth was on top of him.

"Did I hurt you?"

"No..." Strands of her hair tickled his face. "That was a good hit."

She looked at him for a minute. "I try."

He propped himself up on his shoulders, causing Elizabeth to move off of him. Instead she kneeled beside him. William said, "Do you always play this hard?"

"Always."

He touched her sleeve. "Aren't you afraid of getting hurt?"

She shifted her weight. "I can handle it."

Then they heard, Mr. Hurst yell, "Are we playing or what?"

William stood up and held out his hand to Elizabeth. She took it and he pulled her up. They walked towards the others.

Elizabeth said, "Am I playing too hard?"

"You're playing harder than we usually do."

A corner of her mouth pulled up. "Should I be ... easier on you?"

William saw the amused expression. "No." Then he looked into her eyes. "Because I won't be."

Elizabeth let out a small laugh and rejoined Mr. Hurst.

Mr. Hurst said, "Is William upset?"

"I don't think so."

"It looked like you hit him pretty hard."

Elizabeth did not respond. Maybe she did hit him harder than usual, but that's how she played with Charlotte's brothers. That's how they played when they were kids and they were even more ruthless when they were in college. She hadn't even tried any of the dirty tricks she knew.

They returned to the game. Elizabeth and Mr. Hurst took their places again, but William and Charles switched positions. Charles had the ball and William would be receiving.

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow. "Giving up?"

"Not exactly."

She saw a small smile on his face. She said, "This doesn't change anything."

"I should hope not."

Charles counted off and William ran off at the signal. Elizabeth chased William. He ran with long strides which Elizabeth tried to match. He was agile and he did not run in a straight line like most people she had covered before. She tried grabbing him, but each time he managed to slip away. She decided it was time to stop being nice.

William got open even though it was not easy. He managed to duck away from her clutches, but she learned to anticipate his moves. He knew his chance to get the ball would only be for a few seconds.

When William watched the football spiral through the air, it seemed to take its time to find its way into his arms. When it did, he looked at it with disbelief for a second. Then remembering what his purpose was, his feet shuffled and he ran towards the trees that acted as the end zone.

He was running, but felt something tugging on his pants. He was able to wiggle away a few times. Then he felt a warm sensation on his lower back. It took a moment for William to realize there were hands under his shirt.

Elizabeth finally found her grip on the seat of William's pants and held on without a second thought. Then with all her strength, she pulled the waistband of his pants which caused him to lose his balance. She slowed him down, but in the midst of the struggle, one of her feet caught on his, causing both of them to fall and skid across the grass.

Charles winced and Mr. Hurst let out a low laugh when they saw the couple go down. Then they heard a voice call out from behind them. "What's going on? What are you doing?"

Charles turned around. "Caroline, we're just playing some football."

Caroline stood a few yards away from them. "Who's that with William?"

"It's Elizabeth."

"What?" She closed the distance between her and her brother.

They watched William turn on his side towards Elizabeth who remained on her back. The image suggested they were sharing an intimate moment.

William leaned on one elbow and looked down at Elizabeth. "Was that really necessary?"

"Yes. You had to be stopped."

"If this were any other circumstance, I'd think you were trying to get my attention."

Elizabeth rolled her eyes. "Don't flatter yourself."

William's eyes traced the outline of her face.

Elizabeth said, "What?"

"What?"

"You're staring."

"Am I?"

"Yes. Do I have something on my face?"

"Actually." He reached down and rubbed her cheek. "You had some dirt there."

Elizabeth shook her head and swatted his hand away. "That's what happens when you play football." She struggled to sit up.

He pushed himself upright. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine." Elizabeth steadied herself before she stood up.

"Are you sure? If you hurt yourself, we should stop playing."

She rubbed her face with the back of her hand. "I said I'm fine." She walked away, rubbing her arm.

William sprinted after her. "C'mon." He held her arm and she stopped walking. "You obviously know how to play and you understand the game. You have nothing left to prove."

Elizabeth pulled her arm away. "Are you finished? Because I'm tired of talking." She walked toward Mr. Hurst and pulled him aside.

Charles walked over to William. "Are you alright?"

He nodded.

Caroline trotted over to them. "William, what's going on?"

He raked his hand through his messy hair. "It's just a game."

A small smile appeared on Caroline's crimson lips. "I see."

In the meantime, Elizabeth was talking to Mr. Hurst. "This is the fourth down and their last chance to score before we get the ball. I'm sure they're not going to give up easily."

"Are you alright?"

"Yeah. I'm fine."

Mr. Hurst forced Elizabeth to look him in the eye.

She hesitated before she said, "I-He ... I want to kick his ass."

"That much I gathered. Any particular reason?"

"How about he's presumptuous? Arrogant? Condescending?"

"Really?"

"Yeah. You know what he just told me? He said we could stop playing because I obviously know how to play and I understand the game. Damn right I do and we're going to win."

"Elizabeth ... you're kind of scary right now."

She looked at Mr. Hurst and although he had a small smile on his face, his expression revealed some concern. Then she saw that the others were staring at her. Her features relaxed. "I'm sorry." She lowered her voice. "Sometimes I get a little- "

"Crazy?"

Elizabeth chuckled. She said, "I was going to say overzealous, but considering my behavior, I suppose crazy would be more accurate."

"Actually, it wasn't that bad. It was fun to watch William get tossed around."

"But, we haven't even had a chance to score."

Charles walked over to them. "Caroline said that dinner is an hour."

Mr. Hurst's face brightened, but Elizabeth's brow wrinkled. She said, "Do we have to stop?"

Charles could not help laughing. "Caroline is very particular about these things." Then he put his hand on her shoulder and said, "Besides, I think some of us are ready to go in."

Elizabeth glanced over at William who was talking to Caroline. "Alright. But, I want it to be noted that I wanted to finish."

Charles said, "So noted."

They all walked towards the house.

Caroline said, "That was an interesting ... match you all played."

Charles said, "I had a lot of fun."

She said, "It seemed a bit too barbaric for my taste."

"Well, it may have looked that way, but football involves executing strategies and anticipating your opponents' movements."

"You make it sound like there's actual thought involved in it."

Elizabeth said, "There's a lot of thought involved."

Caroline turned to Elizabeth. "Really? There's thought involved in violently colliding into someone else."

They had reached the house and stood at the bottom of the stairs. Before Elizabeth went up, she said, "Yes. You should join us next time we play and if you'd like, I could demonstrate on you." Elizabeth gave her an impertinent smile and then climbed up the steps.

The gentlemen stood at the bottom of the steps for a moment looking after Elizabeth. Then Mr. Hurst cleared his throat and said, "Looking forward to dinner tonight. Wouldn't want to be late." He walked up the stairs.

The other men followed suit, leaving Caroline at the bottom of the stairs by herself. She was a bit miffed that no one noticed she was already dressed for dinner in her new tangerine cashmere sweater.

*bruja = witch :)

Continued In Next Section