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Chapter 6 ~ On Guard

Posted on Tuesday, 22 April 2003

A mixture of admiration and pity is one of the surest recipes for affection.
~ Andre Maurois, Ariel, 1923

William sipped his tea, letting the warm liquid heat his body. Only Carmen and the young maid were awake, getting breakfast ready. Carmen was used to William's early presence in the morning. Even before he asked, she already had his tea and toast ready and waiting for him.

This morning, however, she noticed he did not move with his usual certainty and purpose. Instead, he sat at the breakfast table, eating his toast and reading the paper at a leisure pace.

With a concerned expression, Carmen said, "Mr. Darcy, is there anything I can get you?"

He sat up in his chair to straighten his back. Then he said, "No. I'm fine, Carmen. Just a little tired."

"Oh. Late night?"

"Yes. It was." William could still hear Caroline spouting off the differences living in Bel Air and Brentwood.

"Would you like some coffee instead?"

"No. Tea is good."

Carmen saw him rub his shoulder before he looked down at the paper. "Hmm. . ."

He looked up at her. "What's the matter?"

She said, "Are you sure you don't need anything? Last night, I brought Mr. Hurst a heating pad for his back and Mr. Bingley some ointment for his arm."

He chuckled. He said, "I think I'll be alright." William hesitated before he said, "Did you bring anything to Ms. Elizabeth last night?"

She shook her head. "No. Nothing."

"Oh." The next part he said more to himself. "I wonder if she's. . ."

"Mr. Darcy?"

"Sorry, Carmen. I was just thinking out loud."

Charles walked into the kitchen. "Good morning, everyone."

They both greeted him. Then Carmen went to get Charles' coffee.

William said, "Rough night? Carmen says you needed some ointment for your arm."

He waved his hand. "I'll be fine." Carmen handed him his coffee. "Thank you, Carmen." Charles took a sip before he said, "How was Mr. Hurst last night? Did he give you a hard time?"

"No. Once he had the heating pad, he was fine."

"Good."

"Excuse me." Carmen went to prepare the rest of the breakfast meal.

Charles said, "Did you sleep well?"

"If having a recurring dream about landing face first in grass over and over is sleeping well, then I slept very well."

He chuckled. He said, "You did do a lot of that yesterday. Are you sure you're alright?"

"Yeah." William chewed on his toast.

Charles said, "Dinner was very good last night."

"Yes."

"Although I think Caroline was a bit put off because there was not much conversation."

"Carmen out did herself last night."

"Yes." He laughed. Then he said, "But, I should've turned in early like Elizabeth."

William did not say anything.

"I wonder if she slept well."

"Carmen said she didn't ask for anything."

Charles shook his head. "That's Elizabeth for you."

"What do you mean?"

"Even though she didn't ask Carmen for anything, the fact that she turned in early shows that she was just as run down as the rest of us." He sipped his coffee and rummaged through the Sunday paper. Then he said, "She'll do anything you ask her to, but getting her to ask for help is like pulling teeth."

"Stubborn?"

Charles nodded. "I'd say she's almost got you beat in that category."

William raised an eyebrow. "If yesterday was any indication of how stubborn-"

"I'd say yesterday was just a fraction."

"Just a fraction? How stubborn can she be?"

"I personally haven't had any encounters with her stubborn streak, but I'm sure Richard has plenty of stories."

"Do you mean work related?"

"Some of them are, but it mostly has to do with Charlotte."

"What happened?"

"Elizabeth wouldn't even introduce him to her because she was doubtful of his motives."

"Really?"

"Well, I think he and Elizabeth met at a bar and at the time Richard had a date."

William remembered Elizabeth's story of how she and Richard first met. He could not help smiling.

Charles said, "Something funny?"

"No." Remembering that Elizabeth had said Richard did not like that story being told, William said, "I guess she didn't like him asking about her friend when he had another woman with him."

Charles shrugged. "I also think she felt like he was interested in her at first."

William sat up in his seat. "Was he?"

"I don't know. Maybe. It's pretty easy to be interested in Elizabeth."

William did not say anything.

Charles looked at his friend when he did not hear a response. William had the Wall Street Journal in front of him. He was looking at it, but William's eyes did not move across the page with its characteristic alertness. "Everything alright? Your stocks still good?"

"Stocks? Oh. They're fine." William folded the paper and stacked it on top of the other paper.

A few minutes later, Jane walked in. "Good morning."

Charles stood up and then he held a seat out for her. "Good morning. Please, have a seat."

"Thank you." Jane looked around the dining room. "I will in a minute. I have to ask Carmen something."

He said, "Is there something I can help you with?"

"Uh. . . I was just going to ask Carmen if there was any oatmeal."

"I can do that for you."

Before Jane could say anything, Charles had already disappeared into the kitchen. She stood in the same spot, contemplating whether or not to follow.

"Would you like to sit down?"

Jane looked at William. "Oh. Actually, I was going to ask-"

Charles poked his head from behind the kitchen door. "Did you want anything in your oatmeal?"

"Yes, I would, but. . ."

"I'll just bring out all the choices."

She said, "Just brown sugar." But, Charles was already gone.

William saw the concerned look on Jane's face. "I can go tell him, if you'd like."

"No. Well, it's just . . . she didn't want me to say anything."

"Do you mean Elizabeth?"

She nodded.

He turned to face her. "Is she alright?"

She bit her lower lip.

William stood up. "Is she hurt? Does she need a doctor?"

"A doctor?" She gave him a reassuring smile. "No, I don't think so. She just. . . can't come down to breakfast."

William took a step closer. "Are you sure she's alright?"

Jane tried to read his facial expression. He was trying to appear calm, but the crease on his brow revealed he was concerned. "She's fine. She just wanted to take a long warm bath."

"Oh."

"She's just. . . very, very sore."

"That's all?"

"Yes. I was going to bring some breakfast to her."

Just then, Charles walked back into the dining room. "Here we go." He put a tray down on the table. "I didn't realize how many possibilities there were with oatmeal."

Jane looked at the tray. In the middle was a medium sized white bowl filled with oatmeal. Surrounding the bowl, numerous small, glass dishes were filled with toppings from brown sugar to various fruits. She looked at Charles. "Carmen helped you with this?"

"Well, she helped with the oatmeal, but I put together everything else."

Jane gave him a wide a grin and let herself be lead to the table. He proceeded to explain what was in each dish.

"This is brown sugar."

Jane's smile disappeared. "Brown sugar. Oh, gosh. I have to-"

"It's alright, Jane." William walked to the kitchen. "I'll take care of it. Enjoy your breakfast."

Charles looked at his friend with a curious expression. "What's he going to do?"

"He's going to take care of something for me."

"I can-"

Jane took his hand. "You can stay her with me."

Charles smiled and sat down. He hesitated before he said, "I don't know how I should feel, knowing that another man is doing something for you which I could easily do."

"Well," She squeezed his hand. "Would you rather be taking breakfast up to Elizabeth or sitting with me having breakfast?"

A slow smile spread across his lips. "I suppose I could overlook it just this once."

"Carmen, I think she only likes brown sugar in her oatmeal."

"Well, you can never be too sure." She pushed over some of the little glass bowls and placed two more on the tray.

"But, Carmen-"

She shook her head and held up her hand. "If Ms. Elizabeth is not feeling good, then she will need some food to build up her strength." Carmen proceeded to place a side of toast and then a bowl with half a grapefruit. "I can't believe Mr. Bingley let her play with you guys." Then she put a blueberry muffin with a pat of butter on the tray.

"I don't think he had a say in the matter."

"Oh, maybe I should make some pancakes."

"Carmen, this is good. I think Elizabeth will be very pleased."

She looked over all the items. She gasped and said, "I almost forgot." She walked into the pantry an a few seconds came out. Carmen placed a round piece of bread on the tray.

"Carmen, you already put bread on the tray."

"I know, but this is her favorite." She picked up the tray.

"I can take it."

Carmen looked at him with suspicion.

"I told Jane I would."

"But,-"

Just then, they heard a voice cry out from the dining room, "Carmen! Where are my eggs? Remember I want them poached this time."

Carmen let out a low groan. "I'm coming, Ms. Bingley." She handed the tray to William. "I'll check on her when I have a moment."

"Alright." He walked towards the door, but Carmen stopped him.

"Don't go that way." She steered him to a stairway at the end of the kitchen. "I don't think Ms. Bingley would like seeing you serve someone." She cleared her throat. "Besides her. OK now. I have to go."

Before William could ask where the stairs lead, Carmen was off giving orders to the maid and rushing to get Caroline's breakfast. He hesitated before he took his first step upstairs.

When he reached Elizabeth's bedroom door, he knocked.

"Come in."

He slid one of his hands under the tray and balanced it while his other hand turned the door knob.

"Jane, I need help with my sweater. I think it's in my bag and I'm also going to need help putting it on. It was hard enough getting my clothes on. Putting on that sweater-" She was sitting at the edge of her bed and it took some effort for her to turn around, but when she did, she realized she wasn't talking to Jane.

"What are you-Where's Jane?"

William stepped forward with the tray. "She's downstairs having breakfast with Charles."

"I wasn't expecting anyone else. I thought-I told her not to-"

"She didn't abandon you." He put the tray on her bed. "She even tried to get you breakfast, but once Charles saw her, there was little chance of her. . . coming back."

She turned back around, facing away from him. "I didn't know she could be so easily persuaded."

"An eager Charles is not easy to escape."

She chuckled and said, "True."

He walked around the bed to face her. "I can get your sweater." He saw a mild scowl on her face. "If you tell me exactly where it is-"

"It's alright. I can get it."

"But, you just said-"

"I know what I said, but at the time I thought I was talking to my sister."

"Well, she's not here. I know I don't have Jane's patient and caring personality, but I'll try my best."

When she did not say anything, he took her silence as acquiescence.

"So, where's that sweater?"

Silence again. Maybe it was not acquiescence.

"Well, if you're not going to tell me, I can just go through your stuff."

She did not say anything again.

"Or," He walked around the bed and turned down the covers. "You could get under here."

Elizabeth looked at the empty spot. Then she looked at him. She looked back and forth for a minute before she got up, unsteady at first, and walked to the empty spot in between the sheets.

William moved out her of way, but observed she walked with a limp. He pulled the covers over her and pushed the tray closer.

She said, "Did you do all this?"

"No. I told Carmen you wanted some oatmeal and she put all this together." He pointed at one of the dishes. "What's this?"

"It's sweet bread."

"That's what Carmen said. I've never seen it before."

She raised an eyebrow. "It's Mexican sweet bread. Yesterday, when I was watching football with Gil, I asked her if she knew a recipe for it and she went ahead and made some." She broke off a piece and held it out to him. "It's good."

He took it, but hesitated before he put it in his mouth. He had a pensive expression while he chewed on the bread.

She said, "I'm sure it's quite simple for your taste."

He shook his head. "It is simple, but I think that's what makes it good."

She gave him a small smile and spooned some brown sugar into her oatmeal. Then she sprinkled some raisins and sliced bananas into it.

He said, "I thought you only liked brown sugar in your oatmeal."

"Did Jane tell you that?"

"Sort of."

"Well, I do, but I don't want Carmen to think I didn't like what she put together."

"So, you're going to eat everything?"

"I don't know if I can, but I'm going to try."

He wrinkled his brow and said, "If you don't want any of it, why don't you just leave it alone?"

She looked at him. He seemed at to be asking in earnest. It reminded her of when she was first getting to know Richard. He would ask similar questions in the same manner, sincere, but unaware of the slight tone of carelessness that could be construed from such questions.

She said, "I wouldn't want to hurt her feelings."

"How would you hurt her feelings?"

Elizabeth hesitated, "Well, she went through all this trouble-"

"But, it's her job."

"Her job doesn't include making a feast for me."

"I wouldn't call it a feast."

"I certainly did not expect so much effort just for me-"

"Effort? I think it just shows that Carmen is an excellent housekeeper."

"She's not just a housekeeper."

"Well, I know she's also a fantastic cook."

She shook her head. "I wasn't just talking about her job."

"What do you mean then?"

She let out a short breath. "Did it ever occur to you that she's a person too? That, sure she did a great job putting breakfast together, but it looks as though she's also put some thought into it." She put the bowl of oatmeal back on the tray. "I figured if I finished most of this, I'd be showing my appreciation for what she did."

Elizabeth was surprised by the soft smile on his face. She was expecting him to say more imperceptive things.

Instead, he said, "You're very thoughtful."

"Wha-"

"You should finish up your breakfast then." He stood up and looked around the room. "That would please Carmen very much."

Elizabeth picked up her bowl of oatmeal. While she ate it, her eyes followed William around the room.

He said, "Caroline has done some. . . interesting renovations to the house."

She continued eating her oatmeal.

"She's managed to erase traces of this house's historical details."

Elizabeth swallowed her food. Then she said, "I was a little surprised when we came inside."

William stood by her bag, but he looked at her.

She said, "The outside is beautiful. I like the Spanish style roof and stucco."

"This is one of the few houses that is true to the period." He hesitated before he said, "Was true to the period."

"The inside and the outside are so. . ."

"Discordant?"

Elizabeth eye's lit up. "Yes." She put her bowl down. "When I walked in I was expecting to see Mexican tiles, warm colors on the walls, rounded arches-"

"But?"

"The inside is so . . . well, I like Charles well enough, but the clean lines, marble, and. . ."

"Color?"

"Lack of color!"

"If you had only seen what the house was like before."

"I can imagine."

They sat there in silence. William had returned to the spot at the foot of the bed. The silence was familiar, but not in that unwilling manner to speak to him. Looking at him from across the bed, she felt like something was happening. She tried to perceive what it was, but the longer she stared at him, the stronger that feeling became. It caused her to shudder.

He said, "You need that sweater." He stood up. "I'll be back in a minute."

"I-" He was gone. She did not feel cold. Elizabeth looked down at herself. She was under the covers, but her arms and shoulders were uncovered due to the tank top she wore.

She raised her right hand and rubbed her other arm. In her assumption that Jane would be the only one to see her, Elizabeth had not given much thought to what she was going to wear. Now, Elizabeth felt like she was on display. Although it was quite unintentional.

William strode into the room with a pullover in one hand and something else in the other which she could not see.

He took his seat at the end of the bed. "Since you're determined not to tell me where your sweater is, I brought this." He put down the sweater in between them.

"I didn't tell you because . . . well, it wasn't because I wanted," She took a furtive glance at herself. "I wasn't trying to-"

"What are you talking about?"

"I didn't mean. . ." She shook her head. "Never mind." She pointed at his other hand. "What's that?"

He cleared his throat. "It's some ointment." He gave it to her.

She read the letters on the tube. "Bengay. " She raised one of her eyebrows at him. "This must belong to Charles."

He shook his head.

"Mr. Hurst's?"

He shook his head again.

"Oh! You got it from Carmen."

"No."

"Then. . ." When she realized who it belonged to, both eyebrows shot up. "Yours?"

"Yes."

"What do you need it for?"

He shifted in his spot.

"Sorry. I didn't mean to pry." Her eyes traveled down his body.

He cleared his throat again. "I keep some with me, just in case."

"Just in case what?"

"Sometimes my shoulder gets sore."

"Sore? What? From signing checks all the time?"

He looked at her and saw a corner of her turned up, holding back a smile. Maybe even laughter. He said, "Well, you know how it is." William rolled his shoulder in a circle and then rubbed it. "Being a billionaire takes work."

She laughed.

He liked her unadulterated laughter, but he especially liked being the cause of it.

Then Elizabeth said, "Do you really use this?"

"Yes." He took the tube from her and fiddled with it, passing it back and forth from one hand to the other. "It's from years of playing football. Sometimes when I over exert myself, my shoulder acts up."

She looked at him and then his shoulder. After a moment, she said, "I'm sorry if I did anything to-"

He held up his hand. "Please don't apologize. The last thing I want Richard hearing is that you kicked my ass playing football."

Elizabeth felt face grow hot. She said, "I was a little rough."

"A little?"

"Maybe more than a little."

"At least give me some dignity by admitting that you always play with that much intensity."

She gave him a weak smile. "Alright."

"So. . . " He held up the Bengay.

"Do you really expect me to put on some of that?"

"I think it'll help."

"I'll be fine."

"It works. I should know."

"But-"

"Where are you sore?"

"Uh. . ."

"How about your shoulder? That last hit you gave me was pretty rough."

"Well, I guess it's a little sore."

"We can start there."

"We?"

"You're going to need help-"

"I don't need help." She took the tube of ointment from him. Then she unscrewed the top and squeezed some of the white cream into her left hand. She reached around and spread it on her shoulder.

"Let me see."

"I think I got it." She turned her body, so that the back of her right shoulder was visible.

William saw several white clumps of the ointment on her shoulder. "I think you missed a spot."

"It's not working anyway."

He shook his head. "Turn around and come here."

"Why?"

"It's not working because you didn't put it on correctly."

"Have you ever thought it just doesn't work?"

"Have you ever thought you're not giving it a chance?" Before she could say anything else, he said, "Turn around." William pushed the breakfast tray out of the way.

Elizabeth gave him a mild scowl before she pushed the covers off and moved closer to him. She turned around like he said.

William cleared his throat. "Uh. . . your hair."

"Oh, sorry." She swept her hair away so that it fell past her left shoulder. "Better?"

He did not say anything. Instead, Elizabeth felt one of his hands grip the top of her shoulder and the other was kneading it.

"OW!"

"If it hurts, it's working."

She winced. "What on earth gave you that idea?"

"A burly Swedish woman named Olga."

"Is she your . . . girlfriend?" Just then she felt more pressure on her shoulder. "OW!"

"She happens to be my massage therapist."

"You have a message therapist?"

"Of course."

"Right."

"What?"

"Not everyone has a massage therapist."

"Richard has one."

"He does?"

"You're surprised."

"I've never-He's never-"

"He probably makes the appointments himself."

"Probably." Then a thought entered her mind. "Does Sarah make your appointments?"

"Yes. Sometimes Olga comes to the office."

She turned around. "Are you serious?"

"Yes. She comes when I have a tight schedule and I can't go to her."

She turned away. "Oh."

He did not say anything. William was thinking about her reaction. Why would something like that be so unusual? Sure, most people did not have a massage therapist, but he was not most people. Instead of dwelling on their conversation, he concentrated on working the knot out of Elizabeth's shoulder, but he was soon distracted by the freckles on her back.

"What did you say?"

"Say?"

Elizabeth said, "I thought I heard you say something."

"I didn't." He was thankful that Elizabeth could not see his face. William was seeing patterns in the freckles. No, constellations.

"Constellations?"

He said, "What?"

"You said something about constellations."

"I was just thinking to myself."

"Oh."

"Are you feeling any better?"

"Actually, I am."

"Good."

She turned around to face him. "You're pretty good with your hands."

"Well, I-had not-Thank you."

She was not sure, but Elizabeth thought she saw him blush.

He said, "Does it hurt any where else?"

Elizabeth's brow creased, erasing the good humor from her expression.

William had a small smile on his face. He said, "I thought you'd be eager for me to get my hands on you again."

She rolled her eyes and shook her head.

He picked up his sweater. "You know, not many women can say they've had these hands on them."

She let him put the sweater over her head and it rested on her shoulders. She said, "And this is something they'd want to admit?" She poked her arms through the sleeves.

"Why wouldn't they want to?"

"Because you got tossed by a woman."

He chuckled. "I suppose not a lot of women can admit that either."

She laughed.

He looked down, trying to not to get caught up in the amusement in her eyes. Then he noticed something. He put a hand on her knee. "What's this?"

She could not help jumping a little when he touched her again. "Uh. . . If I didn't know any better, I'd say you're the one who couldn't wait to get your hands on me."

He ignored her comment. His touch was gentle while he examined her knee. "It's all red." Then his eyes traveled up her thigh.

Elizabeth wished she had worn her flannel pajama pants, but it would have chafed her skin. "It's just a rash."

"A rash?" He used his gentle touch to examine her thigh. "From what? Are you allergic to something?"

"No. It's just a rash from sliding on the grass. . . a few times."

"Does it hurt?"

"Only if I rub up against something."

"What about your knee?" His touch was light. "It's turning blue here."

"It's called a bruise."

He looked up at her. "We'll put something on it." He stood up and went to the bathroom joining her room.

"What are you doing?"

He came out with a wash cloth. "Maybe this will help." Without any warning, he put the cold compress on her knee.

She let out a loud yelp and said, "That's cold."

"It'll help keep the bruise down and any swelling."

"Swelling?"

"Well, you were limping earlier."

"I wasn't limping." He gave her a doubtful look. "OK. Maybe I was a little."

He shook his head. "You didn't have to play so hard."

"Don't start that again."

He applied more pressure to the compress. She gasped. He said, "I don't like seeing people hurt."

"It's not that bad."

"You mean you get bruised and red like this all the time."

"Not all the time. It's just been a while."

"This has happened before?"

"Yes. I did say I've played football."

"With who?"

"Charlotte's brothers."

"Charlotte's brothers!" He lowered his voice. "How could they-"

"What? Was I supposed to just stand there and let them have all the fun. Just because I lack testosterone doesn't mean I can't-Ouch!"

He loosened his grip on her knee. "Sorry." He stood up and went back to the bathroom. William took longer than the first time to return. He put the compress back on her knee.

It was a minute before he said, "I didn't mean to imply that you couldn't play." His voice was low. "It's just that . . . I'm sure your boyfriend is not going to like seeing these bruises on you."

"Why should it matter?"

"Because if you were my girlfriend, I'd want to inflict the same kind of pain on the guy who did this to you."

"Oh." She was not expecting that. She was quick to recover. "Don't worry. I don't have a boyfriend who will come after you, and besides you didn't do this. It was my doing. You did point out that I play with great intensity."

He chuckled and said, "That's right."

She hesitated before she said, "Why are you doing this?"

He looked at her and then back down at the cold compress on her knee. "I told you. I don't like seeing people hurt."

"I can take care of myself."

"You could hardly put on a sweater by yourself."

"I would've managed."

"But, I can help." Then he said, "Besides, I don't think Richard is going to like the fact that I roughed up his assistant."

"I thought I was the one who did the roughing up."

"You're not going to let me live that down, are you?"

"No." She said, "But, that will be between you and me."

"Good."

Just then, they heard voices in the hallway.

"Where is he, Carmen?"

No response.

"Are you sure he came up stairs?"

"I don't know."

"Well, where else could he be? He's not in the study. And Alfredo said he didn't see him walking around the grounds."

Caroline walked passed the door to Elizabeth's room, but did a double take at what she saw. She walked right in and stammered out, "What the-Why are you here?"

William looked at her with disbelief. "I don't see how that's any of your concern."

Caroline opened and closed her mouth several times. Then finally she said, "If there's something wrong with her, I'm sure Carmen can make sure she's alright." William opened his mouth to say something, but Caroline continued, "Have you forgotten who you are?"

"I don't see what-"

In a playful voice, Elizabeth said, "Mr. Darcy, we wouldn't want rumors spread around that you were nursing Richard's assistant back to health."

Caroline did not say anything, but the look on her face confirmed that she had the same idea.

Although his intentions to see Elizabeth were not lascivious, he could see how they could be perceived that way. After all, he did not know how long he had been alone with her in the bedroom and the way they were sitting on the bed together, although harmless, did suggest a familiarity between them that did not exist.

He took his hand off the cold compress that had been on her knee. He spoke with deliberation. "Even though I don't think it's anybody's business what I do with my personal time," He snuck a look at Elizabeth. "Caroline's right. I wouldn't want any misunderstandings to occur because of how my actions could be misconstrued."

Elizabeth looked at him, trying to hide her disbelief. It was a few moments before she said, "Of course."

He said, "Is there anything else I can do for you?"

"No. Like Caroline said, I'm sure Carmen will be able to help me."

"Alright."

"Thank you." Then she said, "Mr. Darcy."

He did not know why, but that last part stung him. William stood up and walked to the doorway. He looked at her before he walked out. Caroline did not even give Elizabeth a second look and went after him.

He walked down the corridor, not really paying attention to Caroline prattle on about the house. He realized he forgot his ointment and said, "I'm sure whatever you decide is fine. Excuse me."

He walked away, not giving Caroline a chance to say anything. When he reached Elizabeth's room, he stopped just outside of it. The door had been left ajar.

"I'm so sorry, Ms. Elizabeth. I tried to come as soon as I could, but Ms. Bingley kept sending back her eggs and then Mrs. Hurst did not like her toast, too brown."

"It's alright, Carmen."

"Then Ms. Bingley noticed that Mr. Darcy had not come down to breakfast. She wanted to know where he was."

"I'm sure she did."

"I didn't tell her though."

"Don't worry about it, Carmen."

"But, you had to be alone with that man."

"That man?"

She lowered her voice. "Mr. Darcy."

"Oh."

"I mean, he can be nice, but he seems . . . so serious."

Elizabeth did not say anything.

He heard the breakfast tray being moved and Carmen said that she would be back with an ice pack.

William left before Carmen came out. He returned to his own room. He was not ready to face Caroline or anyone else. Not yet anyway.

In the meantime, Elizabeth lay in bed, wishing it was Jane who had come upstairs. If that had happened, she would not be sitting alone, in his sweater, smelling like Bengay he brought her, wishing she did not know what it was like to be touched by him. Even though the intent of his touches were out of concern for her well being, it was enough to provide a fuse for her imagination. If anything, at the moment, she did not want to think of him in that way.

"I wouldn't want any misunderstandings to occur because of how my actions could be misconstrued."

Elizabeth flopped back on the pillows of her bed. Had she given the impression she thought something more was happening? What exactly was happening? Nothing. And she would make sure nothing would ever happen. She vowed never to let her guard down again for Mr. Darcy.

Chapter 7 ~ Siren

Posted on Tuesday, 13 May 2003

"The fame you earn has a different taste from the fame that is forced upon you."
~ Gloria Vanderbilt

Elizabeth plugged her headset to her cell phone and then put on the ear piece. "I'm in my car, getting ready to leave."

"Good. I was getting worried."

"Sorry. I had to wrap up things at work." Elizabeth started her car. "Call me if there's an emergency."

"Do you mean if mom starts asking about prenuptials?"

Elizabeth laughed. "I'm glad dad is there."

"Me too. But, I think he's already found the study."

Elizabeth sighed. "I'll be there as soon as I can."

Once they said their goodbyes, Elizabeth pushed the disconnect button on her phone. She pulled out of the DFD Inc. parking structure and was on the road to Charles' house in a matter of minutes.

She drove in silence, feeling it suited her mood at the moment. It had been a week since she and Jane had stayed at Charles' house and tonight was the housewarming party. Parties were not usually a big deal, but it became a big deal when Charles invited their entire family.

Elizabeth had spoke to her father the night before and convinced him to accompany them to the party. He was reluctant at first, saying there was a program about pyramids he wanted to watch on the Discovery channel. However, Elizabeth admitted that Charles seemed to be a serious contender for Jane's affection and that it would probably be a good chance for him to check Charles out.

She would have been there with her family right now, but Elizabeth worked late, so she would not have to go into work over the weekend. Elizabeth was tired and wanted nothing more than to take a hot shower, but she wanted to be there for her sister and for Charles. Elizabeth and Charles had become good friends and she did not want it to be ruined by her sometimes overzealous mother.

Taking the off ramp for Mulholland Drive, she drove for a few minutes before she turned onto one of the many curving residential streets that tied the Hills, other wise known as the Hollywood Hills, together.

Her car glided onto the sweeping drive. She stopped at the entrance and was met by a valet. She gave him the keys and noted to herself the valet must have been Caroline's idea.

The butler at the door offered to take her coat. She looked down at herself. She wore her pin strip suit, not having any time to go home and change into something else. Elizabeth gave the butler her suit jacket, deciding that the red halter top she wore underneath would at least help her blend into the party atmosphere.

Standing at the entrance way of the living area, she recognized many of the faces of co-workers and the other people she did not know, she assumed were Caroline's chic LA friends. Scanning the room for her family, she saw that Jane was with their mother who was talking in a very animated manner to Charles.

When she got closer, she could not help wincing at what she heard her mother say, "Did the renovations cost a lot of money? I would imagine it would because this place is huge. I've never been in a house like this before."

When she was near enough to be heard, Elizabeth said, "Hi everyone."

Jane, looking said, "You're here!"

Elizabeth gave her a sympathetic smile. She said, "Where's dad?"

Charles said, "I believe he's checking out the study."

Elizabeth shook her head, asking, "Mom, why don't you come with me to get some refreshments."

"The refreshments are just down the hall."

"Well, it'd be nice if someone would show me exactly where they are."

Charles said, "Oh, let me. Since I'm the host-"

Mrs. Bennet said, "No." She cleared her throat. "I'll go with Elizabeth."

Before Mrs. Bennet was an earshot away from Jane and Charles, she said, "Elizabeth, you almost took Charles away from Jane!"

Elizabeth pulled her mother away from them. When she knew they were far enough away from Jane and Charles, she admitted to her, "I thought it was the perfect opportunity to let them be alone."

Mrs. Bennet opened her mouth to say something, but then when she realized what this meant for Jane, she said, "You're such a clever girl."

Elizabeth shook her head. While they walked towards the refreshment table, passing various other guests, it was obvious that Mrs. Bennet was thoroughly impressed by the company Charles kept.

"Charles seems to run with a different crowd."

"Well, I wouldn't say these are all Charles' friends. Most of them are probably Caroline's friends."

"Caroline?"

"His sister."

"I see."

When they reached the refreshments, they saw that Mary, Catherine, and Lydia were standing next to the table.

Mrs. Bennet said, "What are you doing here girls?" Mrs. Bennet could not understand why her daughters were not taking advantage of the posh opportunities that awaited them.

Catherine said, "What else are we supposed to do?"

Lydia looked around the room before she said, "There's all these old people here."

Mary was occupied with some sort of pastry puff.

"Old people? Some of these people are your sister Elizabeth's age."

Lydia replied, "Yeah. Exactly."

Elizabeth chuckled. She said, "Maybe in a little while I'll take you all home, so you don't have to be around these old people anymore."

Lydia's face brightened. "Can we go now?"

"No, sorry. I just got here and I don't want to be rude to Charles by leaving so soon."

"That's a good plan, Elizabeth. Taking the girls home early will allow me to be here for Jane."

Elizabeth said, "Well, I'm sure she won't stay any longer if we all leave."

"I'll make sure she does."

"Mother."

"Elizabeth, I thought you'd never get here."

She turned around and saw her father. "Sorry, I'm late." She hugged him. "It seems the girls aren't faring too well either."

Mr. Bennet examined his younger daughters. Then he looked back at his favorite daughter saying, "I don't know how much longer I can tolerate all this."

"Have you met Charles yet?"

"Yes. He's nice enough, I suppose."

"Nice enough?"

"Fortunately for him, his study has some redeeming qualities. But, I do emphasis 'some'."

Mrs. Bennet was appalled. "The study? I don't think that's anything to care about."

"Of course not." Mr. Bennet was not in the least bit surprised by his wife's remark.

"In fact, I think the rest of the house is what really-"

"What was he thinking? Getting rid of the historical detail."

Her father turned an expectant look on Elizabeth. She replied, "Well, as far as I can tell, everything was remodeled according to Caroline's request."

Mr. Bennet shook his head.

Mrs. Bennet started her misguided praise. "She has such exquisite taste. Maybe I should talk to her about we could do to remodel-"

Before Elizabeth could comment, her father leveled a look at her mother and said, "You will do no such thing. Our home is fine the way it is."

Mrs. Bennet lifted her right shoulder and said, "If you say so." But the expression on her face gave away that she had her own agenda in mind.

Before Mrs. Bennet could carry out her plan, they heard Charles' voice travel through the room. They followed it back to the living area and saw that he had a microphone in his hand.

"Good evening, everyone. I'm so glad you could all make it." He tapped the microphone with his index finger. "Can everyone hear me?"

There was a "Yes" from the crowd, so Charles continued.

"I just wanted to thank everyone for coming tonight. It means a lot to Caroline and me that so many of you are here."

There was some clapping from the audience.

"Anyway, I thought we could loosen things up with a bit of Karaoke."

"Charles!"

He waved his hand in the air and said, "Now, now Caroline. Let some of our guests go first." A few people smiled at his joke, but Caroline's rigid expression prevented any laughter that would have followed.

He looked into the sea of faces and saw one hand in the air, waving frantically as if they were in a classroom and this person was desperate to share the answer. "Who's that there? Oh! It's Mary Bennet. Come on up."

Jane and Elizabeth exchanged concerned looks. Mrs. Bennet did a little clap and said, "Oh, this should be wonderful!"

Elizabeth shifted in her spot. An uneasy feeling welled up inside her. She looked at her father for help, but he just shrugged. Before anything could be done about it, the sound of a piano filled the room and Mary's voice soared through the air.

I used to think

I had the answers to everything.

But, now I know

That life doesn't always go my way. Yeah.

Feels like I'm caught in the middle.

That's when I realize

Here, Mary placed her hand over her heart and belted out,

I'm not a girl,

Not yet a woman.

All I need is time.

A moment that is mine.

While I'm in between.

I'm not a girl.*

Elizabeth let out a deep breath and tried to survey the room without being noticed. It looked like everyone was watching, but in a manner in which they could not look away. Mary continued singing, unaware of the wide eyed stares she received. It was one thing for Mary to belt out Britney Spears at home, but another issue to do it in public.

While she watched Mary, singing in earnest, Elizabeth was not sure what to do. She looked around again and saw that people were whispering to each other and some had amused expressions on their faces. Elizabeth felt something simmering in her. Then she saw in the back of the room, William Darcy leaning against a wall, watching with the amused expression everyone else shared. It was enough to bring the simmering feeling in Elizabeth to a boil.

When Mary sang the last words, silence permeated the room. Seeing her sister grow distressed from the lack of response to her performance, Elizabeth put her fingers in her mouth and whistled. Then she cheered, "Alright, Mary," while clapping with surprising vigor. Soon her family joined in the applause and with reluctance so did everyone else.

Charles came over and congratulated Mary. "Thank you, Mary." He took the microphone from her and said, "Who's next?"

A low murmur swept the crowd. Seeing Charles becoming a bit anxious for someone else to volunteer and not wanting Mary to be the last impression of Charles' efforts to be a good host, Elizabeth's hand was up before she knew what she was doing.

With great relief, Charles exclaimed, "Elizabeth! Excellent!"

Elizabeth walked over to Charles and took the mic. Jane looked at her with a bit of anxiousness, but Elizabeth shrugged. She looked out into the crowd. She had not realized that there were so many people present. She looked around for some familiar faces and saw her family. Then she saw Richard, standing next to Charlotte.

"To think, I almost missed this." The teasing tone of her voice charmed a few smiles from some people in the audience.

"I have to say," looking at Richard, "If my boss would've given me just a little more work, I would've missed this." This time she was able to provoke some chuckles from people who knew her boss. Then she whispered to Charles the song she was going to sing. Then she announced, "You all have Richard Fitzwilliam to thank for this."

A playful bass rhythm echoed through the room and Elizabeth sang,

Danke Schoen.
Darling, Danke Schoen.

Here she pounded her chest.

Thank you for all the joy and pain.
Picture show, second balcony.
Was the place we'd meet.
Second seat.
Go Dutch treat.
You were sweet.

She pointed her finger at Richard and winked. Then she held out her hand, fanning it out while she sang.

Danke Schoen. Danke Schoen.
Save those lies.
Darling, don't explain.
I recall Central Park and Fall,
how you tore your dress.
What a mess!
I confess that's not all.

The rhythm was picked up by violins and a lively sax. Elizabeth gestured to the crowd to join her and then she held out the microphone while everyone sang.

Danke Schoen. Darling, Danke Scheon.
Thank you for walks down lover's lane.
I can see hearts carved on a tree.
Let us intertwine for old time.
Yours and mine.
That was fine.

Elizabeth sang the last verse with such gusto that even Wayne Newton himself would be proud. By now, she had everyone clapping and singing along with great enthusiasm.

Elizabeth waved good-bye as the last words were sung.

Danke Schoen.
Auf weidersehn.
Danke Schoen.**

The song finished with a flourish and Elizabeth took a bow. She was met with warm applause. Caroline came over to take the mic.

She said, "Why don't we all enjoy some of the refreshments."

Everyone dispersed and broke up into their cliques.

Charles walked over to Elizabeth. "I just wanted to thank-"

Caroline said, "Yes, thank you for that." She handed him the mic. "Excuse us, Charles." Before Elizabeth could say anything else, Caroline took hold of her arm and led her away.

When Caroline found an empty corner, she spat out, "What did you hope to accomplish from that?"

Elizabeth's brow wrinkled. "I was just helping out your brother since no one else was going to-"

"Helping out my brother?" She placed a hand on her hip. "I'd say you were trying to help yourself. I saw how you were practically throwing yourself at William."

"What?" Elizabeth looked around the room and saw that William's eyes were trained on her. "Whatever, Caroline. I sang because Charles needed someone. That's all." She walked away, not letting Caroline get another word in. Elizabeth suspected the only reason why William looked at her was because he derived some amusement from her singing.

She met Jane on her way to the refreshment table.

"Elizabeth, that was good." Jane smiled.

She rolled her eyes. "Sure."

"No. Really. It was a lot of fun watching you."

She gave her sister a small smile. "It probably wasn't a good idea, but I felt bad about Mary. And then no one else seemed to want to go up there which looked like it hurt Charles' feelings-"

"Elizabeth," Jane placed a hand on her sister's arm. "You were great."

She let out a sigh of relief. "Thank you."

They walked over to join their family. Their younger sisters giggled at Elizabeth.

Catherine commented, "I didn't know you were such an entertainer."

Lydia said, "I want to go next."

Mary did not say anything.

Elizabeth took Mary aside. "Are you alright?"

Mary shrugged. After a moment she said, "I was terrible."

"No, you weren't." Wrapping an arm around Mary's shoulders, she gave her a reassuring smile. "I thought your singing was very sincere."

"You mean boring."

Elizabeth looked Mary in the eye. She said, "It doesn't matter what these people think. We're not going to see them again."

Mary gave her a reluctant nod. Then a small smile crept on her lips. "I did have fun though."

Elizabeth smiled. "That's all that matters."

They both joined their family. Elizabeth loved her sisters dearly, and would do anything to protect them. Even if it meant making an ass out of herself.

Mr. Bennet announced, "I think we're all ready to call it an evening."

Lydia whimpered about not getting a chance to sing.

Mr. Bennet said, "My dear, I think this crowd has had enough of the Bennets performing." He turned to Elizabeth. "So that's where your mother's Wayne Newton music went."

Elizabeth's cheeks turned pink. "Yes, sir."

"Well, make sure she gets it back soon." He lowered his eyes and peered over his glasses. "I wouldn't want you getting anymore ideas of performing."

She chuckled and said, "No, of course not."

They walked towards the entrance, meeting Charles and Caroline along the way, however, standing next to Caroline was William.

Charles' brow wrinkled. "Mr. Bennet, you're all not leaving."

"So soon?" Caroline gave them all a smile that did not reach her eyes.

Elizabeth was glad no one recognized the insincerity in her voice. She looked at William. Maybe one person did.

Mr. Bennet said, "Yes, we're leaving. These girls have to get to bed."

Lydia cried, "Dad!"

Mr. Bennet gave her a firm look which stopped any other comments from falling out of her mouth. "Yes, well." He stuck out his hand. "It was nice meeting you, Charles. Let me know when you've made any improvements to your study."

Charles shook his hand. "I will, sir." He saw that Elizabeth and Jane were walking with their family. "You two are also leaving?"

Jane and Elizabeth looked at each other, but it was Mrs. Bennet who spoke first. "Oh, no. Of course not! These girls are old enough to take care of themselves. They're just walking us out."

"Oh." Charles features relaxed. "Well, I hope we meet again."

Elizabeth and Jane walked out with their family and waited with them while the valet service brought their mini-van around. When it arrived, everyone said good night to each other. Then Mr. Bennet took Elizabeth aside and said, "That was very nice what you did in there for Mary and Charles."

"It was nothing."

He looked at the mini-van and then at the rows of luxury sedans lined up in the street. "I just hope you meant what you said to Mary."

"What do you mean?"

"That it doesn't matter what these people think."

"Of course I meant it." Her father had an unconvinced look on his face. Elizabeth squeezed her father's arm. "Dad, if I really cared what these people thought, would I have made a complete fool of myself?"

He chuckled. "Just remember what you told Mary."

She nodded and watched him get into the driver's side. Elizabeth joined Jane on the steps and they watched their family pull away.

Jane said, "Are you ready to go back in?"

Elizabeth let out a deep sigh. "Actually, I think I'll just get my car now and go."

Jane blinked several times. "You're not leaving me here alone with these people."

"Alright." Elizabeth let out a small laugh and as they walked up the steps, she asked, "Now, Jane. You have to be honest with me. How bad was I?"

"You weren't bad at all."

"Jane."

"You weren't." She lowered her voice. "In fact, I think you may have charmed some of the men in the room tonight."

Elizabeth groaned and turned around to walk back down the steps, but Jane grabbed her arm and pulled her into the other direction towards the house.

"It won't be that bad."

Elizabeth said, "I just want this night to end."

"It's almost over."

They walked through the foyer and back into the living area. Once there, Charles called them over to join him, his sister, and William.

"Did your family leave alright?"

Jane said, "Yes. Thank you for asking."

They continued their conversation. Jane stood next to Charles while Elizabeth stood next to Jane. On Elizabeth's left was Caroline and on Caroline's left was William, completing the circle.

Elizabeth was not really paying attention to the conversation when William said, "Have you ever done that before?"

Elizabeth looked around and realized his question was directed at her. "Done what?"

"Take an audience captive like that."

Caroline let out a small laugh. "I'd hardly call her performance captivating."

"Neither would I." She looked at Caroline. "But, I'm sure you'd be able to show us how it's done."

"I-"

Charles said, "That would be fantastic."

"No. I don't think so."

Elizabeth said, "It's all just for fun."

"I'm not going to sing." Caroline huffed and then walked away.

Elizabeth held back her amusement. She said, "Have you seen Charlotte?"

Charles said, "I think she's with Richard." He pointed towards the ceiling to floor plate glass window. "Over there."

"Thanks. I'll be back." She walked away toward Richard and Charlotte. On her way to them, she encountered several friendly looks and stares. There was no way that Jane could be right, so she believed that the looks she received were those of amusement rather then admiration.

"Ah. Do you know how many people came up to me, thanking me for your little performance?"

Elizabeth rolled her eyes. "I'm sure it wasn't sincere."

"Quite the contrary."

She shook her head. The she said, "How long have two been here?"

Richard said, "Not very long."

Charlotte said, "Since this afternoon."

Elizabeth said, "Why?"

"Caroline needed some help putting together some last minute things. I know as an assistant I'm supposed to assist, but this was ridiculous."

Elizabeth shook her head and said, "Well, if it makes you feel any better, things look great."

"Thanks."

Richard said, "Would you two like something to drink? I'm going to refill mine."

Elizabeth said, "Water, please."

Charlotte said, "I'm good."

Richard said, "Alright. I'll be back."

He walked away, but not before giving Charlotte a reassuring smile.

When Richard disappeared into the crowd, Elizabeth said, "Things between you two seem to be progressing nicely."

"I guess so."

"What's the matter?"

Charlotte shrugged. "I don't know. I think Richard likes me, but. . ."

"But?"

"I don't think he. . . trusts me."

"Why do you think that?"

"It's just a feeling." Charlotte said, "We've only been on three real dates. We talk on the phone a lot though. And sometimes we see each other at work, but I don't feel like he's really sure about things between us."

"I think he doesn't want to mess up."

"Mess up?" Charlotte had a small smile on her face. "I'm not asking for candies and flowers. I just want to feel like he can open up to me."

"Charlotte," She faced her friend. "I think Richard would like nothing more than to be able to do that." She hesitated before she said, "I think he likes you a lot and is afraid if he moves too fast, he'll blow it."

"That makes sense."

Elizabeth thought for a moment. Then she said, "I think I know the reason why Richard is holding back."

Charlotte looked at her friend. "What is it?"

"I think he's afraid of his mother."

Charlotte could not help letting out a hearty laugh. Then she said, "Richard? That's hard to believe."

"I wouldn't underestimate her."

"Have you met her?"

Elizabeth nodded.

"When?"

"Remember that weekend I said that Richard and I were going to a conference?"

"That was a couple weeks ago."

"Yeah." She braced herself before she said, "We didn't go to a conference. We went to his mother's birthday party."

Charlotte digested the words for a minute before she said, "I see."

Words spilled out of Elizabeth's mouth. "It was just a favor. He was afraid that if he brought you, you'd think he was moving too fast. Introducing you to his parents after you guys had just met. He was also afraid that his mother would scare you off. She's aggressive when it comes to the women Richard dates. He thought if I went with him, it would appease his mother and she wouldn't try to fix him up with anyone else." Her voice was soft. "I'm sorry, Charlotte. I wanted to tell you, but Richard thought it would be better that I didn't, well, not yet anyway."

Many emotions crossed Charlotte's face. After a while, her features relaxed and she said, "I don't blame you, Elizabeth. I mean, I'm upset you didn't tell me about it before, but I think Richard should've been honest with me. I know at the time we had just met, but. . . he should've been brave enough to face his mother alone."

Elizabeth nodded. She said, "I'm so sorry, Charlotte."

Charlotte waved her hand in the air. "I told you, I'm not mad at you." A small smile appeared on her lips and she said, "But, you could make it up to me by working at my father's bar for a couple nights."

Elizabeth smiled, showing her relief. "Of course, Charlotte."

"Now, what am I supposed to do about Richard. . ."

"Are you going to tell him you know about this?"

Charlotte thought for some time. Then she said, "I think I'll wait and see if he'll tell me on his own. "

"And if he doesn't?"

"Then I'll beat it out of him."

Elizabeth laughed.

Then Charlotte said, "You're lucky you don't have to deal with stuff like this right now."

"Lucky?"

"Sure." She said, "I'm not the romantic type, but it's hard not to be when you're seeing a guy like Richard."

"Would you rather he wasn't?"

"I didn't say that. I just thought I'd never meet someone like Richard who'd actually be interested in me."

Elizabeth gave her friend a reassuring smile.

Charlotte said, "What about you? Is there anyone who inspires you with romantic ideas?"

Elizabeth shook her head.

"No one?"

"No one."

"Come on, Elizabeth. Didn't you get a rub down when you were here last weekend from Mr. CEO himself?"

"Yes." Elizabeth shook her head. "But, nothing happened."

Charlotte raised an eyebrow at her.

"Nothing." Charlotte did not look convinced. Elizabeth said, "Nothing happened. That was the last time I saw him. Well, until tonight."

"You didn't talk to him at the office? He didn't call?"

"Why would he? He was just feeling sorry for me. I also heard he was on a business trip the whole week."

"So, maybe he wants to continue where he left off."

"Charlotte."

"What? I saw the way he was looking at you when you were singing."

"He was not."

"Oh, yes he was."

Elizabeth rolled her eyes. "Whatever."

"You should try to talk to him."

"No way."

"Why not?"

"Last time I checked, he's the one who owns the company we work for."

"So?"

"So? He could have any woman he wants. Besides. . . I bet he's not at all what he seems."

"What are you talking about?"

"I had lunch with George Wickham again."

"What?"

"Yeah. He told me more about what happened between him and William."

Charlotte waited for what else she had to say.

"He said the reason why his trust fund was taken away was because he wanted to date William's sister, Georgiana."

"But-"

"Apparently, they didn't want Georgiana dating an editor's son."

Charlotte shook her head. "Even if that was true, so what?"

"What makes you think that William would date an assistant."

"You don't actually believe George, do you?"

Elizabeth hesitated before she said, "I don't know. I mean, he is an actor. But why would he lie?"

"Why would he tell you all that in the first place?"

"What do you mean?"

"You just met him and he tells you all this personal stuff. You've known Richard longer and he's never said anything about it. Maybe there's more to the story than George is letting on."

"Maybe."

"Elizabeth, are you really going to let him influence what you think?"

She chuckled and said, "I know. I know." Elizabeth said, "Men are evil."

"That's right."

Elizabeth laughed and then said, "Alright. So in the meantime, I'll just mind my own business."

Charlotte nodded and said, "And you should at least give William a chance."

"I don't think anything-"

"You've gone out with George Wickham twice. Aren't you going to give William a chance?"

"He has to be interested first."

"I'm sure he is."

"The only reason why he'd want to see me outside the office would be work related."

Charlotte shook her head, knowing that it would be pointless to try and convince Elizabeth otherwise.

Richard joined them. "Sorry it took me so long." He handed Elizabeth a glass of iced water. "I met some people on the way back." He looked over his shoulder and they saw Charles, Jane, and William coming to join them.

Charles said, "We were just talking about some of the new pieces I have in the gallery and now we're heading over there. Would you like to join us?"

Charlotte and Elizabeth nodded in agreement and soon the group left the living area and walked towards the gallery.

The light in the gallery was different in the living area. There were spotlights highlighting certain vases and paintings. There was a skylight in the ceiling, but since it was evening, only moonlight showered the room. Although the gallery was redone in the same style as the rest of the house, white walls and marble floors, the lighting provided a more intimate feeling not prevalent in the rest of the house.

There were not many pieces in the gallery, but it was obvious the Bingleys went for quality, not quantity. While Charles talked about the Tiffany vase that belonged to his mother, Elizabeth's eye caught something in the corner of the gallery. She left the group to investigate what it was.

The whole house was made up of glass, marble, and the color white. Elizabeth was surprised to find a parlor table made from oak. It had a warm gold color and on the sides of the table were carved florets, intertwined with arches. The legs were delicate, but had a pleasing curve that dipped at the bottom before the clawed feet touched the floor.

"What do you think?"

Elizabeth started at the sound of William's voice. "Oh. I. . . I was surprised to see this here."

William looked around the room. Then he said, "It's really too bad the other furniture pieces are in storage."

"There's more?"

William nodded. "Caroline was ready to get rid of it all, but Charles would not hear it. Instead, he convinced her to put it all in storage."

Elizabeth looked at the petite parlor table. "How did he manage to keep this one here?"

He cleared his throat. "It was a gift."

Elizabeth looked at him for a moment, then back at the table. "Where is it from?"

"A vineyard. Up north."

Elizabeth waited for him to continue.

He said, "I had it sent down, but it was before I knew what Caroline was doing to the house."

Elizabeth nodded. She said, "It's a very nice gift."

"Thank you."

Elizabeth looked at him. It seemed he wanted to say something else, but he did not. After a moment, he finally said, "How's your shoulder?"

"Fine." A small smile pulled at the corner of her lips. "Yours?"

"Not bad." His eyes were on the table. "I wanted to. . ."

"Wanted to what?"

He let out a deep sigh. "How has work been going?"

She shrugged. "You know how it is. Meetings, paperwork. The same old stuff."

"Right."

"You were gone for the whole week though."

He looked at her. "You noticed?"

"Richard told me."

"Oh." He returned his attention back to the table.

"Where did you go this time?"

"Rome."

"Rome? For a whole week?"

He nodded.

"Well, how was it? Did you have a good time? What did you see?"

William smiled, pleased at her interest. "Well, it was a business trip."

"Oh, don't tell me you didn't have time to see any of the sights."

He nodded again.

She shook her head. "I can't believe that. If I were you, I'd make the time."

"It's kind of weird going sight seeing by yourself."

Elizabeth looked at him with disbelief. William Darcy was afraid of being alone? The idea was unbelievable.

William said, "Richard mentioned that you had lunch with a mutual acquaintance of ours."

"Mutual acquaintance?" She thought for a minute and then said, "Do you mean George Wickham?"

He nodded. He said, "How long have you known him?"

"Not very long. We met last week."

"And. . ."

"We've had lunch a couple times."

He hesitated before he said, "Has Richard said anything about him?"

"Not really. Just that he doesn't consider him a friend which I think is strange."

"Why?"

"Richard gets along with everyone. I thought it was strange that he doesn't consider George a friend when George seems just as easy going as Richard."

"I wouldn't compare the two. In fact, I'd say George is in a league of his own."

"That's interesting because George thinks the same about you."

"Do you share his opinion?"

Elizabeth studied his face for a moment before she said, "I'm not sure what to think. I've known both of you for the same amount of time, but if it hadn't been for Richard's comment, I probably would've sided with George."

"And there's nothing else besides Richard's comment that influences your impression of me?"

Her brow wrinkled. She said, "No. Why would there be anything else?"

William could not help feeling disappointed at the remark. He felt it should be obvious who the better man was, but when William thought about it, he realized that even though Elizabeth has known both men for the same amount of time, George was the one who had left the lasting impression.

Elizabeth's eyes focused on the oak parlor table. What did he expect? Sure he's the CEO of the company and travels to places she's only dreamed about, but when it came down to it, she really did not know him. Did she want to know him? At this point, her indifference towards him out weighed the need to know him better.

Just a week ago, his hands were on parts of her body that had not been touched in quite a while by a man. Granted he touched her to make sure she was not seriously injured, however, the next thing she knew, he was gone for the rest of the week. It left her feeling bothered and frustrated. Who did he think he was? Getting her to think he cared and then not a word from him all week.

She was relieved when she looked up and saw a familiar face enter the room. "Mr. Hurst!" She walked over to him.

He was standing in the doorway. "Caroline says I'm not allowed in here." He looked around the room. "She thinks I'll break something."

Elizabeth gave him a warm smile and said, "Where have you been all evening?"

"In the kitchen." He took a sip of his beer. "Then Carmen kicked me out."

"You weren't giving her a hard time, were you?"

"Of course not." He looked at his glass. "I just wanted some flan."

Elizabeth laughed.

"So, what are you all doing in here?"

"Charles was just showing us some of his new pieces."

"Did he show you the statue of the naked man?"

"The naked man?"

William approached them and said, "I think Hurst is referring to the statue of Mars."

"Oh." She looked at Mr. Hurst. "I haven't seen that one yet. Is it good?"

Mr. Hurst lifted a shoulder up and then down. "I suppose if you fancy naked men."

Elizabeth laughed again.

William said, "It's supposed to be a work of art."

"Anytime a naked body is immortalized in pictures or sculptures, it's a work of art."

"I don't think it's that simple."

"Of course I don't mean those nudie magazines."

Elizabeth bit her lip from laughing again and William just shook his head.

"That's entertainment. You know, the other day, I received in the mail a copy of-"

"Hurst," William said, "What brought you to the gallery?"

"Oh. Well, all the people out there are mostly Caroline's friends and I was looking for some normal people."

Elizabeth said, "Caroline's friends can't be that bad."

Mr. Hurst shook his head. "They were talking about yoga instructors and who's the best plastic surgeon." He took a sip of beer and then said, "I was ready to tear my eyes out."

Elizabeth gave him a sympathetic look and said, "Well, if talking about naked men makes you feel better, you're more than welcome to shoot away."

"Thank you."

William looked at both of them with an alarmed expression.

Hurst said, "So, William. What do you find so fascinating about this Mars chap?"

William was saved from a response when Caroline came up behind Mr. Hurst. "What's going on here?"

When she saw who Hurst was talking to, she said, "The party is over there."

William said, "Charles wanted to show us his new pieces."

"Oh, there's nothing of interest in here." Then remembering the parlor table, she said, "Except of course that lovely little table you gave us."

"Right."

Mr. Hurst said, "Then why do you keep it in the corner back there. I think it would look nice if-"

"Charles!" Caroline came into the room. "Our guests might think you're avoiding them."

Charles looked up from a private conversation he was having with Jane. "That's not true." He whispered something to Jane and then said, "I'll be there in a moment."

Caroline turned around and saw that Elizabeth, Hurst, and William were watching her with expectant looks. She decided to approach the one person who would understand her situation.

"William," she said, "There are so many people who are curious to know about all the different projects you have going on right now."

"Caroline-"

She took him by the arm. "I'll introduce you to a few of my friends." She led him away, but not before he could give Elizabeth and Hurst a pleading look.

Hurst said, "Should we follow him?"

"I don't know. It'll look like we're hanging on his every word or something."

"True." He pondered a moment while sipping his beer. "But, as much as Darcy can be a stick in the mud, he certainly doesn't deserve a fun filled evening of Caroline."

"Really?"

"Come on, Elizabeth. He's really not that bad once you get to know him."

She gave him a look full of doubt.

"He did nurse you back to health, didn't he?"

"Wha-He-How did you-"

Mr. Hurst raised his hands in the air. "Caroline couldn't stop talking about it after you and Jane left."

"Well," she said, "if there's one thing I live for, it's to drive Caroline crazy."

"A noble mission in life, if I may say so."

They both walked out of the gallery and soon stood on the outskirts of the living area. There were not as many people as before and the party seemed to be settling down into a comfortable number. They saw that Caroline had William surrounded by a small group of her friends.

Mr. Hurst said, "Why don't we sit over there."

They walked towards an empty space on the L-shaped couch that was across from William and his groupies.

Once they were seated, Elizabeth said, "Where's Mrs. Hurst?"

"Louisa?" He looked around. "Oh, that's right. She turned in early. She said she had a headache."

"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. I hope she feels better soon."

"I'm sure she will." He lowered his voice. "She doesn't really care for such parties."

"Really?"

He nodded. "She prefers quiet evenings with a few friends."

"I had no idea." She looked at him for a moment. "Do you enjoy parties like these?"

He shrugged. "Not usually." Then a corner of his mouth pulled up. "But, tonight's entertainment was hard to resist."

Elizabeth saw something sparkle in Mr. Hurst's eyes and could not help laughing. Then she said, "I can assure you, it wasn't anything special."

"Are you kidding? Karaoke and Wayne Newton. That's hard to beat."

This time Elizabeth threw her head back and laughed.

William had an easy view of Hurst and Elizabeth from where he stood. At first, he was relieved to have a couple of familiar faces around, but now it made him uneasy.

"So, when's your next movie project?"

"I'm sorry?"

The young, skinny thing giggled. "Your next movie. When are you going to start it?"

"I don't handle those personally." He watched Hurst continue talking to Elizabeth who gave him her undivided attention.

"So, what do you have to do with the movies?"

Caroline cut in. "Silly. He pays for them."

There was a ripple of giggles that surrounded William.

Then one of the other young, skinny things said, "How do you pick the actresses for your movies?"

He could not believe he was part of this conversation, however, Caroline was more than happy to answer for William. It was a little strange how much she knew about the business, but then again, he and Charles had been friends for a very long time. He supposed Caroline might have picked up something on the way.

Elizabeth said, "Mr. Hurst, why do you think William keeps looking over here?"

He glanced over and William had his hands planted in his pockets. His expression was stony. "Maybe he's trying to preserve his brain cells."

"What?"

"Have you ever heard a conversation between Caroline and her friends?"

"No."

Mr. Hurst settled deeper into his seat. He nudged Elizabeth to look at the girls surrounding William. Then when one of them opened her mouth, Mr. Hurst provided the words.

"My hair is so pretty."

Elizabeth looked at Mr. Hurst and gave him a bewildered look. He nudged her again, encouraging her to continue watching.

Another groupie opened her mouth, but Mr. Hurst said, "I drive a BMW. My daddy pays for it."

And then when one of the blonde bodies spoke, he said, "I know Caroline thinks you're her boyfriend, but you should be mine. I just had my-"

Elizabeth burst out laughing. She tagged Mr. Hurst on the arm and said, "You're very bad."

He looked at her with feigned innocence. "What?"

"Those girls could be nice." She looked at the group again, but William's indifferent expression told otherwise. "Shouldn't he be used to this by now?"

"How does a person get used to so called actresses and models throwing themselves at you?" He thought for a minute and then said, "Actually-"

Elizabeth elbowed Mr. Hurst on the side, causing him to let out an, "Omph."

Then she said, "Does he really get approached by actresses and models?"

He said, "Actresses, models, agents, producers, photographers, nobility-"

"OK. I get it."

"One time there was this Victoria Secrets model determined to have him-"

"OK."

"Caroline was beside herself. How do you compete with that? Anyway, that model-"

"Gil!"

Mr. Hurst looked at Elizabeth. "Was it something I said?"

"I'm sure you have some very interesting stories about William Darcy's love life, but I don't really want to know about it."

Mr. Hurst blinked several times. "Why not?"

"Because I don't need gross images of my boss with women."

"It's not like he's been with lots of women. In fact, he does a pretty good job of avoiding them."

"He avoids them?"

"Like the plague."

"I don't understand."

"Me either. A man his age. If he were gay, then I'd understand, but. . ."

"But, what?"

He shrugged. "It's like he's saving himself."

"Saving himself?"

"Don't get me wrong. He's sowed some oats in his day, but lately, it's like a desert."

"Oh."

"A drought."

"I see."

"Barren even."

"Gil!"

Mr. Hurst put his empty glass on the glass table in front of them. "Maybe I shouldn't have anymore."

"That's probably a good idea."

William watched Hurst and Elizabeth banter as if they had known each other for years. He ran his fingers through his hair. If Hurst, owner of Hurst Construction, could strike up a lively conversation with Elizabeth, why couldn't he, William Darcy, CEO of DFD Publishing Inc., do the same?

Luck must have been on his side at that moment because Charles approached the group and said, "Alright, ladies. Let William have some room to breathe."

All the ladies whined and complained how unfair it was, but Charles said, "He doesn't even have a drink in his hand." Charles guided William by the elbow out of the throng.

When they were far enough away, William said, "You know I don't drink at parties."

"Of course, I do. But, they don't."

"Caroline won't be pleased."

"Well, if you'd like to go back-"

"No. This is fine."

William looked around and saw that Jane, Richard, and Charlotte had joined Hurst and Elizabeth on the couch.

Charles handed William a glass of iced water. "Here."

"Thanks."

Charles followed William's line of vision. "You know, it's probably time for Hurst to turn in."

William looked at Charles.

"Louisa's upstairs with a headache and I'm sure she wants her husband's company."

"Perhaps."

They walked towards the couch and Charles bent down to whisper something to Hurst. Hurst looked at the both of them. He said, "Why would Louisa-"

Charles said, "Hurst."

Hurst looked at both of them again. Then when he saw how William was staring at Elizabeth, he said, "Oh. Right. Because Louisa is just lost without me." Hurst stood up and then looked at William. "Just relax."

William wrinkled his brow at the remark, but when he saw that there was an empty space next to Elizabeth, he was quick to forget Hurst's comment.

Then Charles joined them. Jane moved over, causing a shift in the seating arrangement. William was at the very end of the couch which meant no one could sit next to him and try to distract him.

Elizabeth looked at William. "Where's Hurst?"

It was not the response he was expecting. "Uh. . . He went upstairs to check on his wife."

"Oh." She arched her eyebrow and said, "You seemed to be enjoying yourself with your. . . harem."

"Harem?" He said, "I'd hardly call it that."

"You didn't enjoy all that attention?"

"Not really."

Elizabeth looked at him with pure doubt.

He said, "I lost ten minutes of my life that I'll never get back."

She laughed. Then she said, "It couldn't have been that bad."

He shook his head. "At least you were having a good time with Hurst."

"It's hard not to."

William blinked several times. "Really? Hurst doesn't strike me as the type to. . ."

"Be funny?"

William did not say anything.

"Have you ever had a real conversation with him?"

"Sure."

Elizabeth shook her head. "A real conversation where you're not looking at him as if he's stupid."

"I don't-"

"You look at everyone that way."

"What are you talking about?"

Elizabeth turned to face him. "Just a few minutes ago, when Hurst was here, you were looking at us as if we were Twiddle Dee and Twiddle Dum."

"That's what you think?"

"Well, what else am I supposed to think?"

"Elizabeth," He rubbed his forehead. "Did it ever occur to you that I was envious of you guys."

It was a minute before Elizabeth said, "Envious?"

"Of course." He turned to face her. "Do you think I'd enjoy listening to a bunch of females talk about how I'm involved in making movies and when I'll be choosing the next actress?"

Elizabeth opened her mouth, but closed it. Then she said, "You make movies?"

He chuckled. He said, "No. I oversee production."

"What does that mean?"

He let out a deep sigh. "I pay for things."

"Oh." She looked at him for a moment. "I didn't know you were interested in that kind of stuff."

"I wouldn't say I was interested. It's something my grandfather looked into when movies were the new thing."

"Do you like it?"

No one had ever asked him that before. He shrugged. "It's alright."

Elizabeth wanted to ask all these questions, but she knew she would just sound like another one of those groupies. Then an idea hit her. She said, "How come you don't give George Wickham a part?" She saw that his face became unreadable.

"You seem very interested in that man's personal business."

"I wouldn't say I'm very interested. I'm just curious. He had mentioned that you guys were friends at one time and since he's an actor and you're involved in movies-"

"It's not that simple."

Elizabeth was about to ask why not, when Charlotte said, "Elizabeth, I'm going to need some help with the pickup line. Do you have some time available in your schedule?"

"Sure. I'll make time."

"Thanks. I appreciate it. Even though I have a good idea of what to put together, I'd like another person to sound off ideas with."

"That's fine."

When Elizabeth turned back to face William, he looked at her with an intensity that made her forget what she was going to say.

He leaned closer to her. "Elizabeth, I. . . I was wondering if we. . . could have lunch some time."

"Lunch? What for?"

"Usually people have lunch so that they could eat in the middle of the day."

Elizabeth chuckled. She said, "I know. It's just when Richard and I have lunch, it's usually because he wants to discuss something about work."

"Well, I-"

"Is this about the pickup line?"

"Pickup line?"

"What Charlotte and I were just talking about. I know it looks like Charlotte. . . Charlotte really does know her stuff."

"I don't doubt Charlotte's abilities."

"Then. . . why?"

"Well, if you wanted to talk about the pickup line, we could."

Elizabeth looked at him with a confused expression, but she said, "Alright. Monday?"

"Monday would be good."

They continued talking, but of nothing of great importance. Both of them were distracted by what had just happened. Elizabeth was not sure if he had just tried to ask her out and William was kicking himself for not just saying he wanted to go out with her.

Before anything else could be said about the matter, everyone was ready to go home. So, two people left the party, unsure about what to expect Monday.

* "I'm Not a Girl" by Britney Spears from Britney.
** "Danke Schoen" by Wayne Newton from The Martini Lounge available at Target.

Continued In Next Section