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Chapter 10 ~ Gelato

Posted on Wednesday, 16 July 2003

Prejudices, it is well known, are most difficult to eradicate from the heart whose soil has never been loosened or fertilized by education: they grow there, firm as weeds among stones.
~ Charlotte Bronte

"Richard, we have work to do!"

"You ladies won't mind me overseeing your work."

Elizabeth rolled her eyes. "If it was the work you were overseeing, then I'd have no problem."

"I thought you'd know me by now. I'm the type who can multi-task."

This time it was Charlotte who rolled her eyes.

Elizabeth said, "Richard, this is really important. We're trying to narrow down which authors to pick-up for the children's department."

He straightened his shoulders. "Right. I know. I'll be quiet."

Elizabeth was about to remind him he should be preparing for a meeting this afternoon, but he seemed to be sincere, so she did not say anything.

Charlotte said, "Elizabeth, what were you saying about that last author?"

She continued where she had left off before they were interrupted by Richard. Her notes along with Charlotte's notes were spread across the large conference table. They were making good progress until Richard had got wind that Elizabeth was working with Charlotte in the conference room and he came in to check on them.

Richard rubbed his chin.

Elizabeth knew what that meant. "What's the matter now?"

"Nothing."

"Richard, you're doing that chin rubbing thing."

"Am I?" He shifted in his seat. "I didn't realize that."

"You do that when something's on your mind."

"I do?"

Charlotte said, "Yes."

"Oh." They waited for him to explain himself. He said, "I was just wondering why you two got stuck with this."

Elizabeth said, "Charlotte needed my help."

Charlotte said, "And William had decided that Elizabeth would head this project."

Richard sat up in his seat. "Did he? When?"

Elizabeth said, "On Saturday. I was in here doing some research and he came in later."

"Really? On Saturday?"

"Yes."

"I see."

"What?"

"Nothing."

"You're rubbing your chin again."

He was about to deny it, but realized his hand was on his chin. "Damn."

"There's a meeting you have to get ready for."

He waved his hand. "Yeah. I'll be fine." He leaned in closer. "And Caroline is alright with this?"

Elizabeth shifted in her seat.

Charlotte said, "Actually, she left for New York this morning."

Richard's eyes widened. "Really? Why did she leave?" Elizabeth looked at her with matched surprise.

Charlotte shrugged. "I'm not sure. The message she left was unclear, but I think she had to go cover some designer shows in New York."

Richard looked at Elizabeth. "Did you know about this?"

She shook her head. "I had no idea he was going to send her to New York." Elizabeth hesitated, then said, "But, what about her job here?"

Charlotte shrugged. "Caroline told me to handle it."

Richard said, "Interesting."

"Stop it!"

"What?"

Elizabeth shook her head. "That chin thing."

"I was just thinking how convenient it was for you to be assigned this project while Caroline just so happens to be called in to help cover some fashion shows in New York."

"It sounds like a perfect project for her."

"It does. Doesn't it?" He turned to Charlotte. "Do you know who called her in?"

Charlotte thought for a moment before she said, "I think her name was Emma."

"Are you sure?"

"No, but Caroline made it clear that I could reach her at Mrs. Knightley's offices."

"Oh."

Elizabeth said, "Who's Emma Knightley?"

"She's head of our Sophisticated syndication."

"You mean the magazine?"

He nodded.

"I didn't know that was part of this company." Elizabeth hesitated before she said, "So, does this mean Caroline's moved up?"

Richard shrugged. "I don't know how long Emma will tolerate Caroline."

"Right." Elizabeth said, "It's just one project anyway. I don't think there's any reason to be concerned."

"I'm not worried. It just means there'll have to be some changes."

"Changes? What are you talking about?"

"If you're going to move into Caroline's position-"

"Wait a minute. Who said anything about me moving? Besides, if anyone should get it, it should be Charlotte. She's been here longer."

Charlotte said, "I don't care who gets it as long as it's not Caroline."

Elizabeth gave her friend a small smile. Then she looked at Richard and said, "We were on a roll."

"Sorry. I didn't know you were heading this project."

"Your cousin didn't tell you?"

"It must've slipped his mind."

Charlotte said, "It's only Monday. I'm sure he was getting around to it."

"I'm sure you're right."

Elizabeth was not sure what to say. It was obvious that Richard was a little bothered by being left out of the loop, but he was never one to dwell or to let it show. She was relieved when the conference room phone rang. Elizabeth hit a button that switched on the speaker phone. "What's up Marie?"

She said, "Sarah's on the phone."

Richard stood up. "I'll take it in my office."

Marie said, "Actually, she wants to speak to Elizabeth."

"Me?"

"Yes."

She hesitated before she picked it up. "Sarah? Oh right. I was in the middle of something and I-Right. I'll be up there in a few minutes." When she got off the phone, she was met with an expectant look from Richard.

She looked at Charlotte. "Is it alright if we continue this when I get back?"

"Of course."

Richard said, "Where are you going?"

"Upstairs."

"For a meeting?"

"Sort of."

"What kind of meeting?"

Elizabeth hesitated before she said, "Lunch." Then she said, "I'll be back in about an hour."

Richard was about to say something else, but Charlotte squeezed his arm. When Elizabeth was out of the room, Richard said, "They're having lunch?"

Charlotte said, "Looks like it."

"But, he never mentioned it. Did you know?"

She nodded.

"Why wouldn't he say anything?"

"Maybe he assumed that Elizabeth would tell you."

"I suppose, but she didn't mention it either."

Charlotte was not sure what to say. After a moment, she said, "Are you feeling left out?"

He could not help chuckling. Then he said, "Actually, I guess I do."

"I'm sure they'll be fine."

"I know. It's just. . . it's a little weird."

"How?"

"Well, William is like a brother to me and Elizabeth. . ."

"Yeah?"

"I don't know."

Charlotte shifted in her seat. "Are you jealous?"

"Jealous?" He looked at Charlotte. "No!"

"Oh."

"I'm not sure how to explain it. I know they'd be good for each other, but. . ."

"But?"

"They're also both stubborn. It's almost unbelievable that they're going on a date."

"I wouldn't go so far as to call it a date." She hesitated before she said, "Besides, Elizabeth doesn't see it that way."

"What way?"

Charlotte let out a short sigh. She said, "When William asked her out to lunch, Elizabeth assumed it was because he wanted to talk about this." She held out her hand and motioned towards the paper work.

"Elizabeth thought William wanted to talk about work?"

She nodded.

Richard ran his fingers through his hair. He said, "I shouldn't be surprised. William is in as much denial as well."

"How do you know?"

"Because he didn't say anything about all of this to me."

Elizabeth stepped off the elevator and stood in the hallway for a moment to get her bearings. She had never been upstairs before. She looked around for directions or names, but there were none. A young woman coming out from the door in front of her walked towards the elevators.

Elizabeth said, "Where can I find Sarah?"

"She's right through there." She pointed at the door to Elizabeth's left.

"Thanks." Elizabeth walked through the doors and stopped at the entrance. On her left were double doors that were closed. To her right was a passage way that had glass paneling on one side, providing a view of the cubicles. Since all the activity seemed to be on her right, Elizabeth walked in that direction.

When she got to the end of the hallway, it opened up to a type of waiting room. A dark haired young lady stood up when Elizabeth entered the room.

"Sarah?"

The young lady nodded. "Elizabeth, right?"

"Yes. I'm sorry. I know we've met before, but. . ."

"It's alright."

Elizabeth approached the partition. "I'm sorry if it took me a while. I've never been up here and I wasn't sure where to go."

"It's alright. Mr. Darcy is still on the phone on business."

"Oh." Her eyes took in the wood paneling again. "There's a lot of wood here."

Sarah let out a small laugh. "It's been like this as far as I can remember. I think they like that cherry finish."

"They?"

"The Darcys."

"Oh." Her brow wrinkled. "It makes it feel less like an office."

"My mother said that the previous Mr. Darcy wanted something welcoming."

"Really?"

"It was really important to him that people didn't feel intimidated when they were here."

"He sounds like a nice man."

"He was."

Elizabeth took a furtive glance at her desk. She pointed at a picture. "Is that your cat?"

She nodded. "That's Lady Anne."

"May I?"

"Of course."

Elizabeth picked up the frame and examined the picture of the hefty gray cat lying on a blue pillow. "She's pretty."

"And spoiled."

Elizabeth smiled. She said, "How long have you had her?"

"I got her as a gift when I turned sixteen."

"So, she's up there in years?"

Sarah nodded. "Which reminds me, I have to take her to the vet for a check up. She hasn't been eating as much as she usually does."

"I hope it's not serious."

"I'm sure she's fine."

"You're probably right."

"We had a cat when I was a child, but we had to give it up because one of my younger sisters is allergic to cats."

"That's too bad."

"My older sister Jane is talking about getting one, but we're hardly ever home."

"Cats are pretty low maintenance."

"True. But, I have to admit, I want a dog."

Sarah laughed. "That could cause problems."

"Yeah."

Sarah's back straightened and turned her head towards the door. "I think he's almost finished." She checked her watch.

Elizabeth listened for a moment, but did not hear anything. "How do you know?"

"His time is almost up for this phone call. Mr. Darcy keeps a strict time schedule when he has to be on the phone." She checked her watch again and said, "Go on in. He's expecting you."

"Thanks."

Elizabeth walked through the door. Her eyes were drawn to the spectacular view of the city that was framed by seamless windows. Seeing that William was still on the phone, she walked over and looked down on the park across the street.

"Elizabeth?"

She turned around and saw that William had one hand over the phone.

He said, "I'll be done in a minute."

"Take your time."

He nodded and continued talking on the phone.

Elizabeth resumed her post in front of the window. The park was a small patch of green with a courtyard encircled with trees and benches. It had been a few weeks since she had a chance to spend her lunch there. She heard William end his call.

Elizabeth said, "You have a nice view here."

"Thank you." He stood up and walked around his desk. "Would you like to sit down?" He held out a chair to a table which was set with what look like a full service. Elizabeth wondered how she missed seeing it when she entered the room.

At the other end of the room was a kitchenette with a man in a white coat, opening assorted containers and laying them on the counter. Elizabeth took her seat.

William sat down and then said, "Sorry to keep you waiting."

"It's alright."

The man with the white coat approached the table. "Would you like to start off with some wine?"

She said, "No, thank you."

William waved him off.

The gentleman went back to the kitchenette, but returned to the table with goblets of water. "If you need anything else, let me know. In the mean time, I'll be preparing the first course."

William said, "Thank you."

Elizabeth said, "What's your name?"

The gentleman hesitated before he said, "My name is Mario."

"Thank you, Mario." When he walked back to the kitchenette, she said, "Do you usually have lunch like this?"

"No. I usually go to the restaurant." He was quick to add, "I wasn't sure how much time Richard would give you for lunch."

"Oh." She was not sure why that would be an issue. "Which restaurant?"

"It's a few miles from here. Italian. We take our clients there a lot." It was quiet for a moment. He shifted in his seat and said, "How's the project going?"

"We were going over it when Sarah called me." She cleared her throat. "Charlotte had mentioned that Caroline's in New York."

He nodded. "One of our associates needed someone on short notice and I recommended Caroline."

"From what Charlotte said, it sounded like something suited for Caroline."

"It probably is."

"Richard had mentioned that things might change because of Caroline going to New York."

"Richard knows about Caroline?"

"He was there when Charlotte explained things."

"Oh." He said, "I probably should've cleared it with him first."

"Well, you do own this company."

"True."

"And it's only temporary."

"Temporary?"

"Until Caroline comes back, right?"

"I think she'll be back by next Monday."

"That doesn't give us a lot of time."

"For what?"

"To present our material. We'd have to do it by Wednesday."

"Why not Friday?"

"It's Thanksgiving weekend."

He thought for a moment. "Oh, right."

Mario interrupted their conversation by serving them the first course.

The aroma hit Elizabeth's nose without warning. "Mario, what is this?"

"It's shrimp, with basil, garlic, and tomatoes."

"It smells very good."

"Thank you." Mario smiled.

William watched Elizabeth savor the food.

Elizabeth blushed when she realized he was watching her. "Aren't you going to eat?"

He nodded. Then he said, "What do you usually have for lunch?"

She shrugged. "It depends. Sometimes if Richard needs to meet a deadline, we order in, but it's usually pizza or Chinese."

"What about the days you don't order in?"

"Leftovers from home or peanut butter and jelly."

"Peanut butter and jelly? I haven't had that since-"

"You've had PB and J?"

"Of course I've had it. Why wouldn't I?"

"Well, I. . . I didn't think-"

"You didn't think they had PB and J at Harvard?"

She laughed. "Touché."

"It doesn't sound like you get enough variety in your meals."

"Well, I eat other things too. Besides if I eat too much, I become useless in the afternoon."

"Why?" He bit into his food.

She hesitated before admitting, "I get really sleepy when I'm full."

He covered his mouth with his napkin. After he recovered, he said, "I thought that only happens on Thanksgiving."

"For some people, I suppose. But for me, it happens when I've had a good meal."

After a moment, she asked, "How was the rest of the show?"

"Show?"

"The show at Lucas, the bar."

William thought for a minute. "It was good, I suppose."

She arched an eyebrow at him. "Not your kind of music?"

"No, but I believe Georgiana enjoyed it."

"That's good. Does she go to there often?"

"She was there so she could write an article for the school newspaper about the band."

"I remember her mentioning that."

"She's also written an article about the bar itself."

"Oh." Elizabeth took a long sip of her water before she said, "George Wickham was also there that night."

William took a sip of his water.

Elizabeth continued, "Lydia was so excited to see him there."

"Did you actually introduce him to her?"

"No, I think they met own their own. I think he was also there with some people from the studio."

"You should make sure to keep your sister away from him."

"Why?"

William shifted in his seat before he said, "He's not a very. . . good person to have around young people."

"He seems nice enough."

"Seems is the operative word."

Elizabeth's brow wrinkled. "You know, every time his name comes up, I get this feeling that you. . . well, I can't describe it, but something's not right." When William said nothing, she continued, "When I talk to George, he's pretty open about things and he doesn't seem. . . angry."

"Why should he be angry?"

"Well, from what he's said, George has a lot of reasons to be upset with you."

"Has he?"

"Yes, but he seems not to hold any resentment."

"And you think I do?"

She said nothing.

He continued, "You sound like you believe what he's told you."

"I never said that, but why shouldn't I?"

"Why shouldn't you?" William realized he had raised his voice. He took a deep breath. Then he said, "Well, he is an actor. I suppose he can be convincing even to people with a degree of intelligence."

Before Elizabeth could question his comment, Mario brought the second course.

She asked politely, "What's this?"

Mario said, "It's a Spanish potato omelet served with a caprese salad."

Elizabeth said, "This looks delicious."

"Thank you." Mario returned to fix the last dish.

For a moment, Elizabeth thought about William's remark, but the meal put in front of her soon distracted her. She inspected her plate. The Spanish potato omelet had slivers of onions and red bell pepper embedded in the slice. Next to it was the caprese salad. It was made up of sun ripened tomatoes, ribbons of fresh basil, and slabs of mozzarella. It was also marinated with olive oil and seasoned with salt and cracked pepper.

"I don't know anyone who examines their food like you do."

Elizabeth looked up from her plate. "I can assure it's not because I don't want to eat it."

"Then what are you doing?"

"I want to know what I'm eating. What the flavors are. Hurst would know what I'm talking about."

"Oh, so it's a sort of an appreciation."

"Right. Haven't you ever savored a meal?"

"I'm not sure."

She shook her head. "You should try it at least once."

He gave her a small smile.

"This doesn't look like an omelet." Elizabeth put a bite of the slice in her mouth with her fork.

"A Spanish omelet is different than the way Americans make it."

She swallowed the bite. "It is. There's hardly any egg in it. I suppose that's why it's called a potato omelet."

He nodded. "The ingredients are cooked together on the stove first and then baked in the oven."

Mario walked over to give them fresh bread and more water.

Elizabeth said, "Where did you learn to cook like this, Mario?"

He hesitated before he said, "I. . .uh. . . learned from my father."

"Your father? So, it's a family thing?"

He nodded. "Back home, all of my brothers and sisters learned to cook."

"Where's home?"

"Tuscany."

Elizabeth put her fork down and turned to face him. "You're from Tuscany?"

"Actually, from the province of Florence."

"I bet it's lovely."

"Yes."

William cleared his throat.

Mario said, "Excuse me."

Before Elizabeth could ask what that was about, William's phone rang. He stood up and turned on the speaker phone.

"Mr. Darcy, your one o'clock is on line two."

William checked his watch. "They're ten minutes early."

"It's Emma from New York."

He opened his mouth to tell Sarah that he would call her back, but then Elizabeth said, "You probably should take it."

"Emma will understand."

"But, didn't you send Caroline to her?"

It was a moment before he said, "You're right." He let a short sigh. "Tell her I'll be with her in a minute."

Elizabeth stood up.

"No, don't go."

"But, I thought-"

"I don't think it'll take that long."

She gave him a doubtful look. "If you say so." Elizabeth sat down and William walked over to his desk.

He picked up his phone. "Emma?"

Elizabeth tried to look occupied with her food, but it was obvious from the "Uh-huh's" and long pauses between William's sentences that something was wrong.

Then she heard William say, "But, it's only until next Monday. Isn't there anything-" He ran his fingers through his hair while he listened. "I know. But, how about until Friday?" There was another pause. "Emma, what if I promised you an exclusive on the new movie that's in production right now?"

Before she could hear anymore of the conversation, Mario said, "Would you like more of the shrimp?"

"Oh, sure. It's very good."

Mario smiled and then took her plate. When he returned, her attention was captured by the familiar aroma that trailed her plate.

"Do you use fresh basil?"

"What else is there?"

Elizabeth laughed. "Do you have food like this at the restaurant?"

"Yes." He hesitated before he said, "You should visit some time."

"Thank you. I think I will."

"I'm sorry, Emma. I know." Elizabeth looked at William. "Alright. The exclusive and an interview."

Mario said, "Have you been working for Mr. Darcy for very long?"

"Uh. . . no. Actually, I work for Richard." Mario wrinkled his brow. Elizabeth clarified, "Mr. Fitzwilliam."

"Oh." A smile spread across his face. "He's a very nice man. He brings many women to the restaurant."

She turned to face him. "Really?"

"Very pretty."

"When does he bring in these pretty women?"

Mario thought for a minute. "Hmm. . . it's been a very long time since the blonde one."

"Blonde?"

He nodded. "He hasn't been to the restaurant lately."

"I see."

Mario studied her before he said, "Are you and Mr. Fitzwilliam-"

"No." She shook her head. "We just work together."

"Good." He gave her another smile. "That's good to hear."

Elizabeth was not sure what to say. She felt her cheeks burn. She could not meet the welcoming look in his eyes.

William cleared his throat. "Mario, I believe that will be all for today."

"No, dessert, Mr. Darcy?"

"No, I think we've had enough."

Mario nodded. He turned to Elizabeth and said, "It was nice meeting you."

"Nice meeting you, too."

Mario returned to the kitchenette to clean up.

"You had dessert planned?"

William stood up from his seat and walked back to the table. "Mario usually has a little something planned."

Elizabeth's brow wrinkled. "What is it?"

William studied her for a minute. Then he said, "I'm not sure. It's different every time."

Before Elizabeth could ask any more questions, Sarah walked in. "Mr. Darcy, sorry to interrupt. I pushed back your one-thirty, but they said they have to hear from you by two this afternoon."

"Thank you, Sarah."

After a moment, Elizabeth said, "I didn't realize every moment of your time was accounted for in such a way."

"Sarah's very talented at scheduling."

"Do you ever get breaks?"

He gave her a small smile and looked down at his half empty plate.

"Oh." She shifted in her seat. "I'm sorry that you had to spend your time-"

"There's no need to apologize."

"But-"

He held up his hand. "I had a good time."

Elizabeth had a hard time believing him. He had been on the phone a couple of times and they hardly had a conversation.

He said, "What are you doing for Thanksgiving?"

She hesitated before she said, "Jane and I are going over our parents' house. Our aunt and uncle are visiting." Elizabeth sat up in her seat. "They're visiting from San Francisco."

"You have family in San Francisco?"

"Well, actually, they live in Berkeley."

"I see."

"How about you?"

"Me?"

"Thanksgiving?"

"Oh, right. Georgiana and I are also spending it with family."

Elizabeth waited for him to continue.

He hesitated before he said, "With Richard and his parents."

"Right. Sometimes I forget you guys are related."

"Are we that different?"

"Quite."

He rubbed his chin. William looked at her with his brow wrinkled. Then he said, "I suppose we are different."

"Maybe not so different."

He waited for her to continue.

Elizabeth was not sure how she would get out of this. "Uh. . . it's hard to say. I mean, I know Richard pretty well, but I don't know you as well."

"That's true."

She was not sure, but Elizabeth thought a look of disappointment came across his face. Then she said, "What were you an Emma talking about?"

He shifted in his seat. "We were just negotiating a few things."

She raised an eyebrow at him. "A few things?"

"She wanted to know how long she could," he cleared his throat, "keep Caroline."

"Keep Caroline?"

"Yes. I assured her that we could make due without her if necessary."

She shook her head and said, "She wants to send Caroline back."

It was a statement, not a question. After a moment, William said, "Caroline's almost done with her assignment."

Elizabeth let out a small laugh. "Well, one thing's for sure. You're a lot more diplomatic than Richard."

He smiled at her.

"What I don't understand is why you're going through all the trouble to keep her in New York."

"I didn't realize you were missing her presence."

She shook her head. "She does have a job here."

"Which I think you're doing with great effort."

"But, it's not my job."

William rested his elbows on the table. "Do you want it?"

"No."

"I thought-"

"I already have a job."

"But, you could have a better one."

"There's nothing wrong with the one I have now."

"You're an assistant."

Elizabeth looked at him for a moment. The slight expression of distaste on his face was unmistakable. "That's right." She stood up. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to return to my work. Thank you for the meal."

William watched her walk out of his office. He stood up to follow her, but Sarah walked in before he made it out the door to remind him of his appointment.

Elizabeth waited for the elevator. She kept pushing the down button even though she knew it would not make it move faster. When it finally arrived, she walked in, relieved to be leaving.

When she got back to the conference room, Charlotte was alone. Elizabeth sat in her seat and looked through her notes.

"Everything alright?" Charlotte did not look up from her work.

"Fine."

"What did you have for lunch?"

"Italian."

"From where?"

"He had it catered."

"Oh." After a moment, Charlotte said, "Did you guys. . . talk about anything in particular?"

"Not really."

"Nothing?"

"Oh, I think Caroline will be back Friday."

"Friday?" Charlotte swore to herself. "That doesn't give us much time."

"Nope. It doesn't."

They talked about the project for some time. When they had made some progress, Charlotte said, "Are you doing anything next weekend?"

"It's Thanksgiving."

"Thursday. But, not the whole weekend."

Elizabeth looked at her. "What did you have in mind?"

"What are you doing Saturday night?"

"Probably just visiting with family."

"Would you like to have dinner."

"Sure."

"With me and Richard's family?"

"What?"

Charlotte put her pen down. "He's spending the weekend with his family and asked if I wanted to go with him."

"Oh, Charlotte." A smile pulled at the corner of her mouth.

"I thought it was too soon spending a holiday together, so he suggested having dinner with his family another evening. And I agreed."

"I'm so happy for you."

"And I'm glad you'll be there."

"Wait, who said I-"

"You just said you would."

"But, that was before I knew-"

"Please, Elizabeth. I could use some moral support."

Charlotte only asked for help when it was important and she could not say no to her friend. "Of course, I'll be there for you."

"Good." Charlotte let out a sigh of relief.

"It's just Richard and his parents, right?"

"Uh. . ."

"Charlotte?"

"Well, some family will be there, too."

Elizabeth turned to face her. "Family? Like a brother, right?"

"I think so."

"But, that's it, right?"

She cleared her throat and straightened some papers.

"Charlotte?"

"I think so."

"You think so?" She let out a short breath. "So, you mean there's a possibility that extended family might be there."

"Probably."

"I'm not sharing another meal with that man."

"It didn't go well?"

"That's an understatement."

"It couldn't have been that bad."

"He's so-I just want to-"

"That good?"

"No!"

"Come on."

"He's just . . . words can't even describe. . ."

"Sweet? Thoughtful?"

"How about arrogant. Presumptuous."

"Arrogant? Presumptuous? Because he had lunch catered for you?"

"I'd hardly call it a selfless act. You know, I don't even think he knew the name of the man who was serving us."

"I'm sure he did."

"And you know what else? There's something definitely going on between him and George Wickham."

"What makes you say that?"

"He got defensive when I brought up his name."

"Defensive?"

"He insulted my intelligence."

"I can't believe that. I'm sure you misunderstood him."

"No, he practically said that I was an idiot if I believe George Wickham."

"Elizabeth-"

"Then he tried to offer me Caroline's job."

"What did you say?"

"I said no!"

"Why?"

"Why? Because I already have one."

"But, it would be a great promotion."

"Charlotte, if I'm going to get a promotion, it's because I earned it, not because of default or something like that."

"I'm sure he wouldn't have offered you the job if he didn't think you could do it."

"There's something else." Elizabeth thought for a minute. "I can't figure it out though."

"What do you mean?"

"I'm not sure. It's like he. . . he tries to be friendly, but something happens and I feel like an employee."

"But, you are."

"I know, but Richard has never made me feel that way."

Before Charlotte could say anything, there was a knock at the door.

"Yes?"

Mario walked in. "Sorry to interrupt."

Elizabeth stood up. "No, it's alright, Mario. Is there something I can help you with?"

"Mr. Darcy said you would be here."

"Yes. Did he want something?"

"No. He wanted you to have this." He handed her a tin with a white cardboard cover.

"What is it?" Elizabeth took it.

"Dessert."

She hesitated. "Thank you."

Mario nodded. "Have a good day." He left the room.

Elizabeth sat down. She put the tin in front of her and stared at it.

"Aren't you going to open it?'

She looked at Charlotte. "You open it."

Charlotte took the tin and removed the top. In it was a small cup with some short bread cookies next to it. She removed the lid from the cup.

Elizabeth said, "What is it?"

"Looks like ice-cream."

She took the cup and smelled the contents. "I think it's gelato."

Charlotte gave her a knowing smile.

"Does he think food will make things alright?"

"Well, if you don't want it-"

"I didn't say that." She looked down at the cup of chocolate gelato. This was the last thing she would accept from William Darcy.

Chapter 11 ~ Mr. Fitzwilliam's Thanksgiving Tradition

Posted on Tuesday, 29 July 2003

Hope is a very unruly emotion.
~ Gloria Steinem

Elizabeth had awoke from her nap not feeling refreshed or rejuvenated. When she realized she was not at her apartment in her own bed, the truth of the situation caused her worrisome feelings to return. Elizabeth was stuck in the mountains with William Darcy.

She got out of bed and proceeded to straighten out the pillows and smooth out the duvet. Looking at the clock, she realized she had napped for almost two hours. Although she should have felt rested, she was engulfed with the memories from earlier in the day which caused her to feel fatigued.

They had a late morning start and Charlotte and Elizabeth had arrived past noon. Elizabeth had dreaded accompanying Charlotte, but she remembered that William had mentioned he had plans to spend Thanksgiving Day with Richard's family. She felt comfortable with the idea that only Richard and his parents would be at the house over the weekend.

When the ladies arrived, to Elizabeth's utter dismay, not only were Richard and his parents at the house, but also Richard's brother, Matthew and his girlfriend, Laura; plus William and Georgiana were there. Apparently, when Mrs. Fitzwilliam told them they were expecting Charlotte and Elizabeth today, everyone was intent on staying to see them also.

Elizabeth could see why Matt would want to stay. He was probably curious about the girl his younger brother was seeing and perhaps Georgiana felt the same about Richard's girlfriend. However, she could not figure out why William stayed. He already met Charlotte. She had thought perhaps William was accommodating Georgiana's wishes.

When Elizabeth finished straightening the bed, she walked to a window that framed the majestic mountains of San Ysidro. Her room was located on the second floor of the house, so Elizabeth was able to see various layers of numerous oaks and ashes giving the appearance of a green pathway towards the mountains.

She half-regretted excusing herself from the walk outdoors everyone embarked on after Georgiana left. However, it became apparent to her that Richard was manipulating situations where she and William would end up together.

Georgiana had stayed just over an hour before she said she had to go back home. She had a paper to write and other assignments to complete for school. Georgiana expressed her disappointment at having to leave, but she could not ignore the copious amounts of homework her professors assigned during Thanksgiving break.

When Georgiana was gone, Elizabeth realized that although she and Georgiana did spend quite a bit of time getting to know each other, her brother had been present the whole time. Now that Georgiana was gone, William's presence was conspicuous. She tried to mingle with the others, but found it annoying that William would always stand by her side. He did not participate in many of the conversations, but appeared to be listening instead.

On the occasions that William would participate in a conversation, Richard would some how deflect the conversation so that Elizabeth was forced to speak to William.

Through Mrs. Fitzwilliams insistence, Richard took Elizabeth and Charlotte on a tour of the historical house. When they were about to go on the tour, Mrs. Fitzwilliam encouraged William to join them. She had said that William's knowledge of the house was just as good, maybe even better than Richard's.

When Elizabeth said she would like to hear her observations about the house and she should perhaps accompany them, Mrs. Fitzwilliam said that she would join them on the outdoor tour later and that she knew they would be fine with Richard and William.

Elizabeth had to admit that she was intrigued by the house and its history. Its second floor with antique, but elegant furnishings not only showed the style and vision of previous generations, but how far the house had developed from a humble ranch house.

They spent most of the tour in the study. Elizabeth took her time examining the leather spines of the books on the oak shelves. She let out a short sigh at the memory of the brief conversation she had with William moments earlier.

"Georgiana, enjoyed seeing you again."

"I enjoyed seeing her, too." She looked up from her examination of the books. "It's too bad she couldn't stay longer."

He nodded. "I'm sure she would've enjoyed herself."

"She strikes me as the type of person who would enjoy herself where ever she was."

"I suppose, but," he hesitated before he said, "she doesn't go out much."

Elizabeth's eyebrow arched. "No doubt that's due to her older brother's strict orders."

His back straightened. "I don't order her to stay home."

"Perhaps it's understood."

"Georgiana is free to come and go as she pleases."

She gave him a doubtful look.

"You probably think I keep her locked in her room when she's not visiting family."

"I don't-" When she saw a small smile threatening to break on his lips, she cleared her throat and said, "I was just pointing out an observation that I'm sure Georgiana has no trouble getting along with other people in any given circumstance."

"I think it depends on the people." He had an expression on his face that Elizabeth could not read.

She said, "I guess I could see how that would make a difference."

"If. . . What if you were able to see Georgiana more often?"

Elizabeth thought for a second. "That would be nice."

There was a spark in his eyes. "So, if you were in a situation where you had to see Georgiana frequently, you would. . ."

"I'd like it. I think it would be great to get to know Georgiana better." William was about to say something else, but Elizabeth saw that they had been left alone in the study. She asked, "Where did Richard and Charlotte go?"

He said, "They probably went to join everyone back in the living room."

Elizabeth walked towards the door, but she saw that William was still rooted in the same spot. "Are you staying in the study?"

He said, "Uh. . ."

"Well, I'm going back to the living room." She left and a few seconds later, William was behind her.

When they joined the others, they were all sitting out on the veranda. Richard told them they were just about to leave for the outdoor tour. They were going to start with the flower garden. Then they would take a tour of some of the fruits and vegetables that were grown on the ranch.

During the garden tour, Elizabeth had a distinct feeling that not only was Richard trying to pair her off with William, but his mother was, too. It was as if each would tag team the other so that William ended up alone with her. She tried to get a reprieve from Richard's and his mother's skillful maneuvering by keeping in conversation with Charlotte. It worked for a brief time until Mrs. Fitzwilliam executed a very cunning trick.

Mrs. Fitzwilliam had joined the three of them in conversation. While they were walking towards the end of the garden, Mrs. Fitzwilliam stopped at the gazebo located there. She proceeded to tell Charlotte and Elizabeth how she and Mr. Fitzwilliam were married under this gazebo. Then Mrs. Fitzwilliam pointed out the various flowers and shrubs planted around the gazebo. All with sentimental meaning. When Mrs. Fitzwilliam pointed out the climbing roses on the archways, she said there were three types planted. The pink was her favorite. The bold red was here sister-in-law's, Catherine's favorite, and the white was Anne's favorite.

Elizabeth said, "Anne is Catherine's daughter."

"No." Mrs. Fitzwilliam said, "I mean yes, but I was referring to William's mother, Anne Darcy."

Then Mrs. Fitzwilliam called William over to them. She asked him if he remembered when the roses were planted. He said he was eleven when they were planted. Although Mrs. Fitzwilliam did not leave her alone with William, Elizabeth had listened to their conversation, touched by the affection that Mrs. Fitzwilliam felt for her sister-in-laws. Elizabeth was also stunned by the tender tone William spoke with when he talked about his mother. She never considered that he could be capable of such emotion.

By the time the garden tour ended, Elizabeth could not undergo another barrage of maneuvers from the Fitzwilliam mother and son team. They were getting ready to start touring some of the orchards when Elizabeth made an excuse that she was tired and wanted to rest before dinner.

Mrs. Fitzwilliam suggested that they perhaps all return to the house, but Elizabeth insisted that they continue. She wanted Charlotte to see as much of the ranch as possible.

Elizabeth walked away from the window and sat in an overstuffed chair next to her bed. She could handle Richard's manipulations, but she was not sure she was a match for him and his mother. She did not understand why they were so determined to pair them up when it was quite clear to herself that neither she or William desired to be together.

It was half past four in the afternoon and if she remembered correctly, dinner was not until six. She knew she could not stay in her room until dinner, but did not move out of her seat. After a few minutes of admonishing herself for being rude by staying seated in her room, there was a knock on the door.

"Come in."

Charlotte walked into her room. "Are you feeling better?"

Elizabeth nodded and watched as Charlotte shut the door behind her. "I took a nap."

"You look like you're feeling better. Are you ready to go back downstairs?"

Elizabeth squirmed in her seat. "I was just trying to mentally prepare myself for it."

Charlotte's brow creased. "It's not that bad, is it?"

She shrugged.

Charlotte took a seat on the bed next to Elizabeth's chair. "I know I put you in an awkward position, but I really do appreciate you being here with me." She gave a furtive glance at Elizabeth. "William's not that bad."

"I. . . I guess not. It's just. . . it seems like Richard and his mother are trying to throw us together."

"What makes you think that?"

"While we were touring the garden and I was talking to Mrs. Fitzwilliam, she left me alone with William several times."

Charlotte did not say anything.

She continued, "I don't want to be left alone with that man."

"He's been really nice. He gets along with Richard's parents really well and I think he and Matt are good friends. It really seems like he's the third son."

"Of course he gets along with them. They're all family."

"So?"

"He only acts nice towards his family."

"William was acting nice towards you."

"Only because he had to."

Charlotte shook her head. Then she said, "Dinner is in an hour and a half. We're all sitting on the veranda. Why don't you come down just for a little while before we have to get ready for dinner."

"But-"

"Come on." Charlotte stood up and took one of Elizabeth's hands. "I need the moral support."

Elizabeth let herself be dragged out of the room. While they were walking to the staircase, Elizabeth said, "Why do you need moral support? You seemed to be doing fine without me." Charlotte looked over her shoulder and gave her a reproachful look. Elizabeth said, "What are you all talking about anyway?"

"A lot of different things."

They climbed down the L shaped staircase. Elizabeth was careful where she stepped. The staircase had a dark burgundy runner on it, but certain steps creaked. Elizabeth was apprehensive about drawing attention to herself. When they reached the bottom of the staircase, Elizabeth inspected the hall.

"He's not here. He's probably with everyone else."

Elizabeth said, "What are you talking about?"

"You're acting like William is stalking you."

Elizabeth huffed. "I am not. I just . . . want to be prepared."

Charlotte rolled her eyes. "He's really been very nice."

She snorted.

Charlotte lead Elizabeth through the living room and out through the French doors onto the veranda. Everyone was seated on wooden patio furniture, listening to William and Matthew's animated discussion about grapes.

Mrs. Fitzwilliam saw Elizabeth first. "Elizabeth, how are you feeling?"

Charlotte and Elizabeth joined them. Elizabeth sat next to Laura, Matthew's girlfriend. "I'm fine. I'm feeling much better."

"Good. Would you like something to drink?"

"Water would be nice."

Mrs. Fitzwilliam stood up. "I'll be right back. We're just enjoying drinks before dinner." She walked off the veranda and back into the house.

William and Matthew resumed their conversation, but not as animated before. Elizabeth did not listen because she was taking in the details of the veranda. It was tiled with a terra cotta colored floor that extended several feet and ended where the garden lawn started. The veranda was as wide as her bedroom at home. On each side of the veranda was an oak tree, providing leafy canopies that complemented the mountain scene.

The patio furniture was nothing like she had seen before. The wood frame was a medium bronze color that was smooth from regular use. It was supposed to be a bench, but the green soft terry cloth like material that covered the over stuffed cushions gave the impression of a sumptuous couch. She, Laura, Charlotte, and Richard shared this bench. William and Matthew sat on another bench opposite them. Mr. Fitzwilliam sat on a chair that was in the same style as the benches. His chair was at the end in between the benches to Elizabeth's left.

Mr. Fitzwilliam, seeing Elizabeth's eyes take in the scenery, said, "You missed a good tour of the orchards."

Elizabeth took her eyes off the colossal oak tree next to them. "I'm sorry I did. I'm sure I would've enjoyed it very much."

Mrs. Fitzwilliam returned with Elizabeth's glass of water. She said, "Thank you."

As Mrs. Fitzwilliam took a seat next to William, she said, "Maybe later on, if there's time, I can get someone to give you a tour."

Elizabeth smiled and then took a sip of her water.

She continued, "Although the weeping cypress is in the front of the house."

Elizabeth swallowed her water. "Are you talking about the tree that I noticed on your private drive?"

"Yes." Mr. Fitzwilliam looked at William and said, "It was a gift passed on between our families."

When William realized that everyone was waiting for him to respond, he said, "Uh. . . yes. It was given by James Darcy."

When William did not elaborate, Mr. Fitzwilliam said, "He was William's great-great-great-great-great grandfather. He had several trees imported from Italy and gave one to his cousin, Andrew Fitzwilliam."

Richard added, "Apparently, Andrew and James were close and they had ventured to America together in the hopes of acquiring land."

Mr. Fitzwilliam continued, "James already had a grand estate in England and apparently followed his cousin to keep him out of trouble."

Elizabeth and Charlotte laughed.

Richard said, "But, it was James who had acquired the land."

Elizabeth said, "How did he get it?"

The gentlemen shared an amused expression on their faces, but it was William who supplied the answer. "In a poker game."

Elizabeth gave him a look of disbelief. "He won all this land in a poker game?"

He nodded. "Apparently, my great-great-great-great-great grandfather was quite the card player."

Elizabeth looked at Richard who gave her a reassuring smile.

Then she looked at William and said, "So, do you live in these mountains, too?"

"No. You see, Andrew had fallen in love with a woman."

Richard chuckled. "And he was the youngest son of an Earl, so he did not have any land, just his inheritance which was not much."

William said, "And since James already had his land in England, he gave this land to Andrew."

Elizabeth looked at William and then at Richard. She said, "Just like that?"

William nodded. "He gave it to him as a wedding gift."

Richard added, "The tree was a wedding anniversary gift."

Charlotte said, "What a wonderful story."

Elizabeth smiled and nodded in agreement. Although she enjoyed the story, Elizabeth was not sure what to say. She never thought of William coming from a family line where the men were quite chivalrous.

Mrs. Fitzwilliam asked, "How was your Thanksgiving, Elizabeth?"

"It was very nice. I have an aunt and uncle who came to visit."

"I hope your being here doesn't interfere with their visit."

"They're leaving tomorrow night, so I'll get to see them before they leave."

"I'm glad. Where are they from?"

"San Francisco."

Mr. Fitzwilliam said, "Really? We're quite familiar with that city."

Elizabeth missed the knowing look he shot at William.

Mrs. Fitzwilliam said, "Where do they live?"

"In Berkeley."

"Which part?"

"I can't remember exactly where. I don't get a chance to visit them that often." Elizabeth thought for a minute. "I do remember it's several miles from the college."

Mrs. Fitzwilliam said, "It's a nice area."

Elizabeth nodded in agreement.

A young maid stood at the doorway. Mrs. Fitzwilliam said, "Excuse me for a moment."

As Mrs. Fitzwilliam left the room, the conversation broke down into small groups. Mr. Fitzwilliam asked Charlotte to tell him more about her family. From time to time, Mr. Fitzwilliam smiled at Elizabeth. Matthew and William resumed their conversation about grapes, but eventually they started talking about vineyards.

"Is this your first time here?"

Elizabeth turned to Laura. "Yes."

"I've been here several times. It's very serene."

She nodded in agreement and said, "So, it sounds as if you and Matthew have been dating for a long time."

"Just a little over a year."

"Oh."

"And you?"

Elizabeth blinked several times. "Me?"

"How long have you and William-"

"Oh, we're not dating."

Laura gave her a bemused look. "I thought . . . I'm sorry. My mistake."

Elizabeth sipped her water.

Laura asked, "How do you know Richard and William?"

"I'm Richard's assistant."

"Oh, that's right." She lowered her voice. "I think Mrs. Fitzwilliam was a little taken back that Richard. . ."

"Lied?"

"I was going to say misrepresented the truth."

Elizabeth smiled. "Well, I'm glad she wasn't very upset."

Laura nodded.

Elizabeth hesitated before she said, "You probably get this a lot, but since your last name is Wrigley, do people ask you if you have anything to do with the gum?"

She laughed. "All the time. When I was in elementary school, other kids expected me to bring gum for the whole class."

"I bet it got annoying."

"Yeah, but I'm proud to be a Wrigley even if we're only known for our gum."

Elizabeth looked at her for a moment before she said, "So, you really do have some kind of connection with the gum?"

"Yes."

"Oh."

"You're not going to start acting different towards me now, are you?"

"No, of course not."

"And before you ask, yes, I do get a lifetime supply of gum."

Elizabeth stared at her, but when Laura gave her a playful smile, Elizabeth returned a tentative smile. Then Elizabeth said, "I'm sorry. I was just a little surprised."

Laura waved her hand in the air. "It's alright. I get it all the time. I think Georgiana does too."

"Does what?"

"When people find out that she's the heiress to DFD, they have the same sort of reaction."

"Oh."

"But, she's handled it very well."

"Are you two talking about my little sister?"

They both looked up and saw that William had stopped talking to Matthew.

Laura said, "Yes, I was just telling Elizabeth how well I think Georgiana handles fame."

Elizabeth said, "She doesn't even seem to be effected by it all."

"I'm very fortunate."

Elizabeth said, "Fame can be difficult to deal with at times."

Laura nodded in agreement. "I feel sorry for Paris and Nikki."

William smiled and Elizabeth nodded, not really knowing who Laura was talking about.

Laura continued, "I don't think I'd be able to put myself on display like that. Do you know them, William?"

"I've met them a few times."

"I've only seen them once at an after party for a premier." She shook her head. "One of them had to be carried out."

William said, "It is unfortunate."

"I'm surprised their parents haven't done anything to . . . help them improve."

Elizabeth said, "I suppose having money-"

William said, "Just because someone has money, doesn't give them an excuse to act any way they want."

"Maybe they just like to have a good time."

Laura and William both gave her doubtful looks.

Then Laura said, "Have you heard of Paris and Nikki Hilton?"

Elizabeth shrugged. "I'm not sure, but whatever they've done, I'm sure it's not unforgivable."

William said, "Some behavior is unforgivable."

Elizabeth looked at William. "You sound resolute in that belief."

"Well, I believe that there are some things that are absolutely unforgivable."

"Like arrogance?"

"Arrogance is more of a failing."

"But you're willing to forgive someone who has that failing?"

"I think everyone has some kind of failing, but of course no one wants anyone to know what it is."

"Like pride?"

"I can't see how pride could be a failing if it's kept in check by a person who has a high degree of intelligence."

A smile pulled at a corner of Elizabeth's lips.

Laura said, "I don't think the Hiltons have any of that."

William said, "I'll have to agree with you on that point Laura."

Elizabeth said, "Although I think a person who has too much pride is just as bad."

William said, "There's nothing wrong with having pride."

"No, but too much can be unforgivable."

Mrs. Fitzwilliam returned, announcing, "Dinner is going to be served in less than an hour. I'm going up stairs to freshen up."

Elizabeth looked at Charlotte. She said, "You go ahead, Elizabeth. I'll be there in a minute."

Elizabeth walked to her room. She noticed that Richard and William stayed behind. She was glad that the evening was almost over.

Elizabeth straightened her knee length black skirt for the tenth time. Then she strapped on her heels. She was so intent to finish getting dressed, that she forgot to put on some lotion before she got dressed. Elizabeth let out a frustrated sigh and moisturized her arms and legs with a silky lotion that had a soft pear fragrance.

Then she looked in the mirror and adjusted the scoop neckline of her plum colored shirt. She looked in her vanity bag for her necklace. She thought wearing a necklace would take away attention from her bare décolletage.

She had trouble putting it on. Elizabeth did not know why because she had been able to put on the necklace countless times before. With a short sigh, she stopped trying and decided to ask Charlotte for help.

Elizabeth opened a door that lead into an informal sitting room. Across the room, there was another door to the room Charlotte occupied. Elizabeth turned the knob and walked into Charlotte's room.

"Charlotte, will you help me with my necklace. I can't seem to-" Elizabeth stopped a few feet away from the door.

William said, "Charlotte's not here."

"Where is she?" She tried to ignore the fact that William was wearing a terry cloth robe.

He cleared his throat. "She-we actually switched rooms."

"Switched?"

He shifted in his spot. "My room was next to Richard's."

"Oh."

They both stood silent, unsure of what to say. After a moment standing like this, Elizabeth realized that her eyes kept wandering on the V outline of his robe that framed his bare chest.

She averted her eyes and said, "I'm sorry to intrude. I didn't know you and Charlotte had switched rooms. I'll leave you alone-"

"Can I be of any help?"

"No, it's alright." She turned to leave the room.

He took a step forward. "It's no trouble."

"But, it looks like you still need to finish getting ready."

"I'll be on time to dinner." He closed the distance between them and held out his hand. "I think I can handle putting on a necklace."

Elizabeth hesitated before she placed the necklace in his hand. Then she turned her back towards him.

"Uh. . . your hair."

"Oh, right." She twisted her hair up, allowing him to reach around and put the necklace on her. A tingling sensation rose from her stomach to her chest when she felt his fingers graze her neck.

He said, "You smell nice."

"I. . . it's lotion."

"It's very nice smelling lotion."

Elizabeth felt his hands drop away. "Thank you."

"You're welcome."

Elizabeth let her hair down and then turned around to face him. She looked down, unable to meet his eyes for some reason. "I'll see you downstairs." Elizabeth walked out of the room and shut the door behind her.

When she returned to her own room, she shut her door, staring at it for a few minutes. Why hadn't Charlotte told her she was switching rooms with William? Seeing William dressed in a robe disturbed her. She could not reconcile with the fact that although he was the CEO of a major publishing company and funded several Hollywood movies, underneath it all, William Darcy was just a man. A red-blooded, breathing man who was in the adjoining room next to her, walking around with just his robe on.

She shook her head, trying to shake off the feeling of foreboding creeping into her mind. Elizabeth left her room and walked to the staircase. She decided that she would get through dinner, but as soon as it was over, she would return to her room.

After dinner, she knew that everyone would pair off and she did not want to be paired off with William. She had a feeling that's why Charlotte switched with William and why she was thrown into conversation with him frequently. Elizabeth could not understand why everyone was under the impression that she should be paired with William.

She had not shown any interest in the idea and the very thought of being paired with him irked her. He was presumptuous, arrogant, and she knew he had a problem with her being an assistant. She was not sure in what way it bothered him, but she knew it did.

Elizabeth tried to block out her thoughts when she arrived in the dining room. She knew she had to be on her toes. She wanted to make sure she and William did not get stuck together due to the efforts and beliefs of everyone else.

She had dreaded that William would be seated next to her at dinner. It turned out he was not going to sit next to her, but across from her. She thought the proximity was a saving grace, but instead it was worse. Elizabeth caught him staring a few times which made her feel vulnerable to his criticisms.

However, once dinner got underway, she was no longer concerned about who was sitting in front of her. The food was delicious and the conversation entertaining. She had not realized how turkey could be incorporated into a variety of dishes and Mr. Fitzwilliam had managed several times to sneak in embarrassing stories about Richard's childhood.

When Mr. Fitzwilliam attempted to elaborate on the details of Richard's crush on his first grade teacher, Richard cut in and said, "She had beautiful eyes."

Matthew coughed and muttered, "Among other things."

Richard rolled his eyes and said, "I wasn't the only one who had secret crushes on girls." He threw a look at William.

He had just put in a forkful of chocolate cake in his mouth when he looked up.

Mr. Fitzwilliam waggled his eyebrows up and down. "Oh, I remember a girl he quite fancied."

William almost choked on his cake. "What?"

Richard said, "I think father's referring to Mrs. Reynolds."

William blinked several times. "Mrs. Reynolds?"

Mr. Fitzwilliam said, "You used to follow her around the house when you were a boy."

"I did not."

Mrs. Fitzwilliam said, "It was adorable."

Richard said, "Of course. How could anyone resist Mrs. Reynolds? Her chocolate chip cookies are divine."

Matthew said, "A boy's dream come true. She cooks. She cleans and she makes awesome chocolate chip cookies if you ask nicely."

William shook his head.

Mrs. Fitzwilliam gave William a good-natured smile. Then she said, "I remember one time you gathered wild flowers for her and your mother. You said you couldn't bring flowers for just one of them because you didn't want either one to think you loved them any less."

William sank deeper into his seat and the tops of his ears turned red. Mr. Fitzwilliam, Matthew, and Richard snickered. Charlotte and Laura let out a soft, "Aww."

Elizabeth wanted to know more. "How old were you when that happened?"

William hesitated before he answered, "I was seven."

Elizabeth studied his face and saw sincerity in his expression that was unquestionable. It was almost unbelievable to her that he could be capable of something so. . . sweet.

The silent communication that seemed to be transpiring between William and Elizabeth brought a silence to the table that neither had noticed, but everyone else encouraged it by leaving the table.

Elizabeth broke the silence. "Mrs. Reynolds sounds like a lovely lady."

"Yes. She's our housekeeper."

"Oh." Her brow wrinkled. How could he have such open admiration for someone who managed the house? He did not show such consideration to Charles' housekeeper, Carmen. When she looked away from him to consider this contradiction, she saw that they had been left alone. "Where did everyone go?"

William looked around the table and was just as surprised as Elizabeth. "Uh. . . maybe they went to the family room."

They stood up from the table, but Elizabeth had to follow William because she had not been to the family room yet. They walked passed the living room entrance, and down a short corridor that lead to the family room. Elizabeth stopped at the entranceway.

When William saw that Elizabeth had not followed him into the room, he returned to her and stood by her side. He did not say anything, realizing she was watching Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam dancing to Frank Sinatra playing at a soft volume in the background.

I've got you under my skin.
I've got you under my skin.

I've got you deep in the heart of me.
So deep in the heart that you're really a part of me.
I've got you under my skin.

While they were walking to the family room, Elizabeth could not help feeling a little miffed. She did not like being left alone with William. She was expecting to find everyone coupled off when they got to the family room, leaving her with William. However, when they did arrive, she was surprised by the sight of Richard's parents dancing together. Everyone else was sitting together, exchanging a few words, but their attention was mostly on the elder Fitzwilliams.

I tried so not to give in.
I said to myself this affair will never go so well.
Why should I try to resist, when I know so well,
I've got you under my skin.

William asked, "Would you like to dance?"

Elizabeth blinked several times. "What did you say?"

I'd sacrifice anything come what might for the sake of having you near.
In spite of a warning voice that comes in the night and repeats, repeats in my ear,
Don't you know little fool you never can win.
Use your mentality.
Wake up to reality.

He hesitated before he repeated, "Would you like to dance?"

Elizabeth digested the words and when she registered the meaning, she tried to formulate a response.

But, each time that I do, just the thought of you
Makes me stop before I begin
because I've got you under my skin.*

"No, thank you. I think this is their song." Just then, as if on cue, Richard took Charlotte by the hand and joined his parents. Matthew and Laura followed suit.

William looked at Elizabeth with a small smile.

Elizabeth let out a short breath. "Actually, I'm going to turn in right now. We have to be up early for tomorrow's drive."

"Alright."

"I'm just going to say goodnight to Richard and everyone else." She walked towards the couples clustered in the middle of the room. Richard and Charlotte were the first she approached. "Charlotte, I'm going to bed now."

"Is something wrong?"

"No. I'm just tired and we have to be up early tomorrow."

"It's not that late though."

"I know, but my headache is coming back."

Charlotte broke away from Richard's embrace. "Elizabeth-"

She held up her hand. "I just want to go to bed."

Charlotte looked at her friend for a moment before she said, "Alright."

"Tell everyone else I said good night."

She nodded.

Richard said, "Not before a kiss good night."

Elizabeth looked at him. "What?"

Richard nodded towards the doorway of the family room. "You were standing under the mistletoe."

Elizabeth looked in the direction he indicated. She saw the familiar green leafed cutting tied with a red ribbon. Underneath it was William.

Elizabeth stammered out, "What? It's not even Christmas yet."

Richard said, "It's a tradition." Elizabeth turned to face him. He continued, "My father always puts it up right after Thanksgiving."

Mr. Fitzwilliam added, "You can never start too early."

William was wondering what was happening. Richard gave him a knowing smile, but Elizabeth's eyes were narrowed. He thought the look was for him, but Matthew gave him a pointed look and raised his chin. William looked up at first towards the ceiling. Then his eye caught the mistletoe over the doorway.

Before he could say anything, Elizabeth was in front of him. This time her eyes were fiery. "I can't believe this." She muttered.

"I had no idea-"

"Of course not."

"I mean, I knew about the tradition, but my uncle always puts in a different place each year."

Elizabeth let out a deep breath. After a moment, she stepped towards William and kissed him. . . on the cheek.

"Oh, come on!" Richard yelled. "Only mothers and aunts get kissed on the cheek."

Matthew added, "Sisters too."

Elizabeth narrowed her eyes at the brothers, but did not say anything to them. She turned back to William. "Well, I'm obviously not your sister."

"Definitely not." He saw a questioning look appear on her face at the comment. He was quick to say, "Look, you don't have to do what Richard tells you."

"I know."

"This is like what happened with the Bartender's Drink."

Elizabeth thought for a second. "It is."

"And I don't think I'd want to repeat that."

She could not help feeling affronted by the comment. Instead of showing his comment had any affect, Elizabeth said, "You're right. It wasn't much of a kiss."

He was about to clarify that the situation was awkward, but her eyes blazed with such a challenging quality that it caused him to say instead, "No, it wasn't." And before he knew what he was doing, his fingers had found their way under the soft curve of her right cheek bone.

William's touch caused her to forget the other people in the room and his eyes captured her full attention. Then she felt the soft pressure of his lips on hers. His fingers slid behind her neck to bring her closer.

So captivated was she by William's warm and gentle kiss that when she found her hand sliding up his chest, Elizabeth's brain registered the action, and her eyes flew open. When she realized she was kissing him back, her hand flexed, pushing her away from him.

"See? That wasn't so bad, was it?"

Elizabeth looked at Richard and saw that everyone was watching. She caught her breath and said, "Good night." She gave William a bemused look and walked to her room as fast as she could.

Elizabeth felt like something terrible had just happened.

Elizabeth was quick to change out of her skirt and shirt and into a tank top and pajama pants. She threw down the covers and dropped herself onto the bed. She was shaken by what happened downstairs and believed that sleep would help her recover, but the longer she laid awake in bed, the more difficult it became to sleep.

The memory of what had transpired moments ago kept replaying in her mind even though she tried to block it out. The more she tried to block it out, the more restless she got and eventually, she felt a stifling warmth that was perpetuated in the sheets and pillows of the bed. Elizabeth tried to reach for a cool patch of cotton somewhere, but could not find it.

She sat up and looked around the room. Her cell phone was on her nightstand. She thought about calling Jane, but remembered that she would be out with Charles.

Instead, she picked up her notebook that was next to her cell phone. She would work on something, anything to distract her. She opened the door to the sitting room and saw an inviting fire blazing in the fireplace. However, Elizabeth was trying to cool off. She opened the French door on the opposite side of the fireplace and walked onto a modest, but welcoming balcony.

The cool mountain air cut through her skin. There was a soft perfume from the jasmine that covered the stone railing that enclosed the balcony. Elizabeth moved to go back in for a sweater, but decided not to because there was a throw blanket on a lounge chair. However, she did not wrap herself in the blanket, wanting to feel the brisk night air instead of the warm sensation associated with that kiss.

That Kiss.

Elizabeth pulled out the pencil in the spiral coil of her notebook and flipped through the pages. She came across the next article she was going to put out: "Life After College: The Dreaded Career Interview". It was half way completed. She was in the middle of listing Do's & Don'ts when Interviewing with a prospective boss. Elizabeth resumed where she left off, but after several instances of having to redirect her thoughts back on task, she flipped the notebook to some clean pages and wrote something else.

Untitled

My first romantic experience with a boy was in the third grade. I received a note from him that contained the following:

Do you like me? Yes or No

All I had to do was circle an answer and that was that. I'd go on about my business jumping rope and this boy passed on a similar note the next day to another girl. Simple.

Of course, things don't stay as simple as that. As I got older and progressed into junior high and then high school, feelings became more complex. When you're in your adolescent years, you worry about if your crush likes you back and hope they do. In high school, the possibility of being in love seems like it could actually happen.

Then when you get to college and experience what it's really like to 'date', everything you've experienced before is almost trivial. (I say almost because after seeing Tom Cruise in 'Top Gun' for the first time, I'm sure I was feeling something akin to a deep enthralling kind of love. Never mind I was twelve at the time. But, I digress.) It all seems trivial because for the first time in your romantic wanderings, the idea of marriage enters your mind. Not the Prince Charming kind of fairy tale kind of marriage. The type where you see yourself growing old with someone else.

Elizabeth stopped for a minute. The night air was no longer a refreshing change, but now it bit into her, chilling her down to the bone. She picked up the fleece blanket and threw it over her shoulders. She rubbed her arms and when she felt warm enough, resumed writing.

College helped me to not only shape my opinions and beliefs on many subjects, but it also allowed me to experience many things. One such experience that was crucial into shaping my ideas on love was living with four boys. Although they were also in college, the maturity level displayed when they were not around normal people enforced my belief that they were boys.

From that experience I learned that I wanted to be with someone who was thoughtful. Males take note: Making sure the toilet seat is down after you have finished your business, can leave quite a good impression on a female. Other ways to be thoughtful is including her in any thing that's happening. I can't tell you how many times I was the one to order a pizza, have it arrive, and then to find it all gone.

Another quality I look for is someone who is responsible. Guys: Whatever you do, take responsibility for it. Whether it's taking out the garbage (doing that without being told to do it will earn you extra points) or paying a bill on time (electricity is a good thing), take responsibility. And when you've faltered on a responsibility, own up to it as soon as possible.

Of course there are also the givens: smart, funny, and caring. It really is not that tall of an order to fill. I guarantee any nice woman values these basic qualities in a man.

Yet, even if you have all these qualities, there is also another major consideration. Can you see yourself growing old with this person?

She put her pencil down and pulled the blanket tighter around her shoulders. Elizabeth could not go on trying to ignore what happened downstairs. She could no longer ignore the fact that William wanted to kiss her, but worst of all, she kissed him back.

Was it possible that what everyone said about William being interested in her was true? Although the idea was so absurd, she could no longer dismiss it. And yet she was so sure she was correct in believing that he had no interest in her in that way. She had years in experience with determining when someone was interested in her or not. How could she be so wrong about this? It was difficult for her at the moment to figure out where she had been so mistaken in this case.

She glanced at the page she wrote. Elizabeth had grown up with Charlotte's brothers for most of her life and even lived with some of them for a few years. Having that experience, she was confident that she knew the mental and habitual workings of men so well. She thought she would know when she found the man she wanted to grow old with when the time came.

Now. . . she did not know what to think. Charlotte, Richard, Charles, Jane, and even Georgiana tried to tell her that William was the man for her. She could admit with great reluctance that William was capable of some of the qualities she had written down, but there had to be more. Elizabeth could not be with someone just because everyone thought she should be and he seemed to have qualities that a good person has.

She also had to like him in the very least.

At the moment, Elizabeth could not say that she did. She respected him because he was her boss, but other than that, she had no feelings for him in that way. Elizabeth was so convinced that William did not like her in that way that she did not allow herself to feel that way for him.

However, she did kiss him back. She could admit that now without a feeling of anger welling up inside her. She thought she knew herself and her feelings towards William, but the fact that she kissed him back made her feel betrayed. Elizabeth's reasoning and emotions were discordant when the whole time she believed them to be the same. It was a hard blow and difficult to digest.

Because now, Elizabeth could not deny that some part of her is attracted to him. Yet, she had a hard time believing it. If he was as great as everyone told her, then why did she not even like him? One thing was for sure, Elizabeth knew she did not want to be in a relationship with someone she did not trust.

Wait? Trust? Where did that come from?

That's what was holding her back. A large part of her did not trust him. Before she could figure out why she felt this way, Elizabeth heard a voice from the doorway of the balcony.

"You're still awake."

She looked up. It was William.

*"I've Got You Under My Skin" sung by Frank Sinatra.

Chapter 12 ~ Mint & Chip

Posted on Friday, 1 August 2003

Knowing is the most profound kind of love, giving someone the gift of knowledge about yourself.
~ Marsha Norman

Elizabeth fumbled to shut her notebook. "I. . . uh . . ."

William walked over and sat at the end of the lounge chair. "I thought you'd be asleep."

She raised her knees to herself. "I tried-I mean, I was going to, but I wanted to work on something before I-"

"Work?" He moved closer to her and eyed the notebook next to her. "What are you working on?"

Elizabeth picked up the notebook and put it between herself and her lap. "It's nothing."

"Are you working on your presentation? Would you like to go over it?"

She shifted in her seat. "No. It's not the presentation."

"Are you doing work for Richard? You're on vacation." He looked at her for a minute before he said, "I'll have a talk with him."

"No!" It came out louder than she had intended. She cleared her throat. "It's not for Richard." He waited for her to continue. She said, "It's something for outside of work."

"Personal?"

She could not lie. "Not exactly."

"Extra credit?"

Elizabeth could not help letting a small laugh escape. "No." She struggled with her words. "It's. . . an article."

William's eyebrows shot up. "An article?"

She nodded.

He said, "Richard never mentioned that you-"

"He doesn't know."

"He doesn't?"

"No." She hesitated before she said, "No one knows."

"No one? Not even Charlotte and Jane?"

She shook her head.

His brow wrinkled. "I thought-Wouldn't you want-"

"No, I don't want-I didn't want anyone knowing."

"Why not?"

"It's something. . . I'm trying."

"You want to be a writer?"

"I don't know. I just. . . I never considered it."

He thought for a minute. Then he said, "Do you like it so far?"

She pulled the blanket tighter around her shoulders. "So, far it's been nice."

"Where's your work published?"

"It's this online magazine. I'd rather not say."

"I understand you not wanting to tell people about it because you're unsure if it's something you'll continue to pursue, but I'm sure eventually people will know you write because of your name."

She thought about the possibility that Georgiana was already reading her column. "Well, I don't print things with my name."

His brow wrinkled. "You write anonymously?"

"Not exactly."

He waited for her to continue.

"I. . . uh. . . write under a pen name."

"What is it?"

She shifted in her seat. "I'd rather not say."

"I won't tell anyone." She still looked unconvinced. "If you're worried I'll look for your writing, don't be."

"I only use my initials."

"Oh." He looked at her. "It sounds like you've been writing for a while."

"Just a few months."

"So, you write for a magazine."

"It's more like free lancing. I submit something every other month."

"But, it still sounds like something you could make a career out of. I mean, I'm sure whoever the editor is they wouldn't have asked for material from you if they didn't think it was good."

Elizabeth could not believe she was having this conversation, especially with him. "It's a relatively new magazine, so I think they just need material to fill it."

"You shouldn't sell yourself short. I think they probably do require a level of talent to publish someone."

She shrugged.

Then without warning, he said, "I need to talk to you."

Elizabeth sat up in her seat. "All right."

"I'm glad I got the chance to see you before you had to leave in the morning."

The grave tone in his voice caused her to hug her knees tighter.

"About what happened downstairs. It got me thinking. . ."

"Me too."

A small smile appeared on his lips. He said, "I'm going to be out of town next week, but when I get back, I'd like to see you."

"See me? Is there something else you want me to work on?"

He let out a small laugh. "No. I want to see you. . . outside of work."

"Oh."

He continued, "I've been struggling with this for a while. I don't normally. . . date people from work. . . especially. . ."

"Assistants."

William did not say anything for a moment. He ran his fingers through his hair and then said, "You have to understand. A man in my position. I have to be careful with whom I'm associated with especially when it comes to my personal life."

He continued with more certainty. "I struggled with this so much because I can't give any reason for other people to doubt me or the company. I also have my family-Georgiana-to think about. I don't want her to be caught up in any scandal." He stopped short. William looked at Elizabeth. "I thought I could just keep my distance from you, but after what happened tonight, I can't. . . regardless of the risk."

Elizabeth tried to swallow the raw emotion that welled up in her throat. She spoke with careful effort, "I'm not sure what to say, but I think you were right in your initial decision." She took a deep steady breath. "I don't think it's a good idea to see each other outside of work."

Disbelief was evident on William's face. "I don't understand."

"You're right to have concerns about dating an assistant."

He looked at her with his mouth partly open. Then he said, "That's all you have to say? What about downstairs? I thought-"

"I'm sorry for that. It shouldn't have happened."

William stood up and walked to the railing. He faced the dark mountain scenery and said, "Do you realize what I'm asking? What I'm. . . sacrificing. . ."

Elizabeth took the blanket off her shoulders, held her notebook, and then stood up. "I'm sorry if it seems like I don't understand what you mean, but I understand perfectly." She walked towards the doorway. "Good night."

William turned around and saw that she had disappeared back into the house. He went inside. "Elizabeth."

She had stopped in front of her bedroom door.

"That can't be it. You say you understand what I went through, but I think if you really did, you wouldn't have been so quick to say no." He took a step towards her. "Do you honestly realize what I asked you? This is something I just don't jump into. Not very many women can say that I've tried to pursue something more than just-"

"I do realize and understand what you asked me. You want to pursue something more than just a work relationship." Elizabeth looked at him. "And I don't."

"That's it? That's all you have to say." He tried to gather his composure, but his voice betrayed his incredulity. "Don't you think I deserve some kind of explanation?"

She hesitated before she said, "I'm sorry about what happened downstairs. It shouldn't have happened. If I could, I'd take it back."

The wrinkles on William's forehead disappeared, but on his face an indescribable expression clouded his features. Elizabeth suspected he was angry. She continued, "I'm sorry that it lead you to believe that my feelings were more than what they really are. I never meant to encourage or lead you on in anyway. I admit that I've been friendly, but nothing more. I tried to keep it that way."

William leaned on the sofa for support. After a moment, he said, "I suppose, aside from what Richard has done to throw us together, you've been friendly like you said, but nothing more. But, I can't help wondering," He looked at her with an intensity that made it difficult for her to keep looking at him. He continued, "if I acted in a way that hid my concerns, if I had showed you I was interested in you from the beginning, perhaps things might have been different."

"I don't think it would've made a difference."

"It seems to have a made a difference with you and George Wickham."

Her eyes narrowed. "You talk like you have some authority on that subject."

He pushed himself away from the couch. "You've had lunch with him several times. I'm sure he's impressed you with his. . . friendliness."

"George does appear to be very friendly, but Richard has warned me about him." She crossed her arms. "Which is more than I can say you've done."

"That should've been enough."

"Because you say so?" She marched towards him. "How can you say that you want something more from me when you can't even trust me to tell me the truth about George Wickham?"

"I. . ." William opened his mouth then closed it.

"And it's all because I'm an assistant." Elizabeth came to a realization. "Is that why you kept asking me if I wanted Caroline's job? So, you could feel better about what I did at work?" When he did not answer, Elizabeth said, "I can't believe this." After a moment, Elizabeth walked closer to William, so that she was looking up into his face. "I can't be in a serious relationship with someone who doesn't trust me or respects what I do." Her voice was low. "And it shouldn't have been a struggle just to like me."

William tried to say something, but nothing came out of his mouth. She had an expression on her face that he did not know. It seemed to be a mixture of disapproval and disappointment. Even in his confused state of mind, he did not like to see this look directed at him.

The silence was broken by the sound of William's cell phone ringing.

Elizabeth said, "You should get that."

Not having anything else to say, he took out his phone from his pocket. The display screen showed it was Charles calling.

"Charles? Oh. Jane."

Elizabeth's brow wrinkled.

"Yes. No, it's alright. Actually, she's right here." He held out the phone to her. "It's Jane."

Elizabeth took it. "Hello? Jane? No, it's alright. . . really." She turned around. "You weren't interrupting anything."

William went out on the balcony to give her some privacy. His feelings were very different than what they were just an hour ago. The kiss they shared was so promising. It gave him hope. He took a great risk kissing her, but her response to it was more than he ever hoped for.

Their first kiss was too quick to savor, however, it certainly left a lot to the imagination. It provided him with the promise of what could be. Then tonight he had a chance to act on that promise. Her response to his touch was still fresh in his memory and when they both became consumed with each other. . . he raked his hand through his hair and took a deep breath. When Elizabeth said she wish she could take it back, the hurt he felt was more than just being smarted by her words, but also by the fact that he would be denied this experience.

Her words angered him, but yet he could not stay angry with her. The contradictions in his behavior Elizabeth pointed out startled him. He credited himself at being able to conceal his feelings. Perhaps this time his concealment also blinded him to the truth. It pained him to admit it, but it did bother him that Elizabeth is an assistant.

There was a noise at the doorway and when he turned around, William saw Elizabeth standing there.

She held out his phone.

William walked towards her and took it.

Elizabeth said, "Thank you."

"Is everything alright? Is Jane alright?"

"She's fine." Elizabeth crossed her arms. "My sister, Lydia. Something's happened. I have to go." She turned around to go back into the house.

He followed her inside. "Right now? Is she in the hospital?"

She shook her head. "She's back at our apartment. I have to tell Charlotte." She stopped mid stride. "She's with Richard." She let out a deep breath. "I'll just call a cab."

"Elizabeth," he caught her elbow. "Can you tell me what happened? Is Lydia going to be alright?"

"I think so. I mean, she's with Jane, so she should be, but I need to be there, also."

Still holding onto her elbow, he took one step closer. "Of course, but are you sure it can't wait until morning?"

She shook her head. "No, I have to go now. He tried to. . . but, Craig stopped him before anything-"

"Craig stopped who?"

Elizabeth looked up at him with shining eyes. "George Wickham."

William's hand dropped from her arm and his jaw tightened. After a minute he said, "I have a car. I'm driving."

"But-"

"I'll drive."

"You can't-"

He placed his hands on her shoulders. "I'm going with you."

The determined look he gave her did not leave any room for opposition. "Alright."

"Can you be ready in ten minutes?"

She nodded.

"I'll let Richard and Charlotte know we're leaving and not to worry."

"OK." She looked away. "Thank you."

He let go of her. His voice was gentle. "There's no need to thank me."

When Elizabeth looked up to reaffirm her gratitude, he had already disappeared through his bedroom door.

With their bags stuffed in the trunk, Elizabeth and William settled into his car. Elizabeth was adjusting her seat belt. When William turned the ignition key, the noiseless hum of the sleek luxury sedan signaled that it was ready for the two-hour drive.

Elizabeth said, "You said that Richard would let his parents know why we had to leave."

He nodded. "Richard is going to tell them that you had a family emergency." William cleared his throat. "He's not going to mention George Wickham, but he's going to say that I drove because Charlotte wanted to stay longer and I had business to take care of anyway."

She let out a deep sigh. Elizabeth looked at the scenery from the winding road. It was dark and the sky was dotted with ominous clouds. It was difficult to see the outline of the mountains, but every now and then a peak would become visible because of the starry sky that acted as a backdrop for it. Elizabeth checked her watch. It was one in the morning.

She said, "If you get tired, let me know. I'll drive. I didn't realize how late it was."

"I'll be alright."

Elizabeth looked at him. He showed no signs of exhaustion. In fact, his brow was set in a determined expression. "It'll be three in the morning by the time we get there."

"I know. I'm used to traveling at odd hours."

She was about to point out how it was usually a pilot or a chauffeur who did most of the actual traveling part for him, but stopped herself because now was not the time to point out such a detail. Instead, Elizabeth said, "Well, just in case, I'm here to drive."

William said, "Thanks."

With the common goal of getting to Elizabeth's apartment and making sure Lydia was alright, they drove in a tense silence. Elizabeth was surprised that despite the grim outline of the road, William handled the twists and turns with relative ease. Once they finally had cleared the private road and connected with the main road, Elizabeth let out the breath she had been holding.

William saw her grip loosen on the door handle. "Afraid we wouldn't make it?" He chuckled.

"No, it's not that. It's just so dark and that road has a lot of turns." She hesitated, "You handled that very well."

"I've driven on that road many times."

"I remember Laura mentioning that you went out to get ice-cream for Georgiana the other night."

"Yes."

"You drove through on that road, at night, for ice cream?"

He shrugged and said, "It's what Georgiana wanted."

"You'd do anything for her." She chuckled.

"I would." William drove onto the ramp for the highway back to LA. It was a few minutes before he adjusted to the increased speed allowed on the highway, although not many cars were on the road.

He meant what he said about doing anything for Georgiana. She needed, had to be protected at whatever cost. That's what he believed for the last four years. William snuck a quick glance at Elizabeth. Her eyes had flickered closed, but they were open in no time.

"If you'd like to sleep-"

"No." Elizabeth sat up. "I'm fine."

"It's really late."

"I know." She looked at her hands on her lap. "It's just the minute I close my eyes. . ."

"Was Lydia hurt?"

She took her hands off her lap and wrapped her arms around herself. "Jane wouldn't tell me."

"It's probably best that she didn't."

She shook her head. "I just don't understand how. . . I mean, he knew my sister is just a kid."

William was silent.

"And what was she doing in Peter and Craig's bar? Alone? It just doesn't make sense." When there was no response, she continued, "I'm just so thankful that Craig was there. Who knows what could've. . ."

He shot another quick glance at her. She was blinking back tears. William realized that he could no longer protect Georgiana's secret. "Elizabeth, there's something you need to know."

"I know. There's no use in trying to figure out what happened until we get there. It's just-"

"No, it's not that." He cleared his throat. "It's about George Wickham."

Elizabeth turned to face him. "What about him?"

"How-Do you know how he's connected with my family?"

"I don't."

It was a moment before he continued, "George is my father's godson. George's father used to work for my father. In fact, his father used to have what is now Richard's job."

"Is George upset that Richard got the job?"

He shook his head and said, "No. George was more than happy acting on his TV show. I guess you could say it was sort of like a gift from my father, but he had no idea that the show would take off like it did." William tried to block out the memories of George and his groupies. "Anyway, his father had hoped he'd get into the publishing business, but George. . . he made it clear he wanted to keep doing the show. It disappointed his father very much. He didn't think George ever considered the future." He gripped the steering wheel hard. "So, George's father opened a trust fund for him. He didn't know about it. Not until. . . his father was sick."

"Is he better?"

"No, he passed away."

"I'm sorry about that. How well did you know him?"

"Very well."

Elizabeth gave him a sympathetic look even though he could not see it in the dark car.

He continued, "George was eighteen when his father got sick. At the same time, his father had found out that George had many. . . debts. He had fallen into the wrong crowd. It hurt his father deeply." He hesitated before he added, "I was the one who told him." William took a deep cleansing breath. "I think his father had suspected all along, but just wanted to hear it from someone else. I know it made things more difficult, but I just couldn't. . . I respected him too much."

"Of course."

"But, I didn't know that his father had made a stipulation in the trust fund." William could still remember George's face when the will was read. "When George turned twenty-one, he was entitled to his trust fund, but there was a stipulation. He couldn't owe money to anyone or any institution."

"No debt?"

"Right. He had three years to clear his debts or he wouldn't inherit it."

"I take it he didn't."

"He tried to conceal his debts by using another name, but it didn't work."

"His lawyers found out?"

"I found out."

"How-"

"Another provision in the trust fund was that I had to oversee it if something happened to his father."

"You mean you were in charge of whether or not George got his money?"

He let out a deep breath. "Yes."

"But, aren't you both the same age?"

He nodded.

"How much. . ."

"Initially, it was six figures, but now. . . it's up to eight."

"Oh my. . ."

"Yeah."

"So, is that why he keeps coming around to talk to Richard?"

"Sort of." He hesitated before he continued, "I helped him pay off some of his debts, but when I learned about the other debts later. . ."

"Did you beat him to a bloody pulp?"

He chuckled and said, "No. I withheld his trust fund."

"Oh." She cringed. "So, that's why you hate talking about him."

"Actually," he pulled off onto the side of the road and turned off the engine. "There's more."

Elizabeth said, "More? How can there be more?"

"No one, other than Richard, knows about this. Not even his parents know about it."

Elizabeth's brow wrinkled.

"It has to do with Georgiana." When he did not hear her say anything, he continued, "It happened four years ago. Georgie was sixteen at the time."

Elizabeth felt a deep foreboding feeling rise up from her stomach.

"I had just finished college and was taking over my father's job. Richard had actually been acting CEO until I finished school."

"I didn't know."

"He had been covering for me for two years since my. . . father passed away." He took in a deep breath. "Anyway, it was all so crazy at the time. I hadn't realized how much Richard had done for me, for me and Georgiana. But, he was happy to give up the reigns. Richard is responsible, but being the CEO wasn't him. I was glad he accepted the job as editor-in-chief. He really got me through the transition and. . ."

She placed her hand on his arm. "You don't have to tell me anything. It's none of my-"

"But, it is, Elizabeth. I should've told you, but I thought I was protecting Georgiana. Now, I think I was just being stubborn and I didn't want anyone else knowing because it. . . it can be something that can be used against me and Georgiana."

She took away her hand. "Then maybe you shouldn't-"

"No, I want too. I trust that you'd never do anything to hurt Georgiana."

Elizabeth noticed how he left himself out of that sentence.

He continued, "Despite the stipulation that George could not have any debts in order to inherit his trust fund, George had continued to increase his debt. He couldn't understand how his father wanted me to be in charge of his trust fund. George also hated that I was sticking to the agreement, not letting him have any of it. He blamed me for his situation, pointing out if I had just let him have his trust fund, his debts would be gone." He snuck a glance at Elizabeth. "I knew it wouldn't make a difference if he had more money. It probably would make things worse for him."

"But, doesn't he have the show? I mean, even though it's not in production, he must be making money off the syndication rights."

"Actually, he doesn't. He signed away the rights."

"Why?"

"He was young at the time and didn't pay much attention to contracts."

"Then. . ."

"He's very angry about that, too. George is actually trying to find a way to overturn the stipulation in the contract. He's arguing that he was a minor when he signed it."

"Does he have a good chance of overturning it?"

"I'd say he has a fifty-fifty chance. But, he's going up against the network and they have endless resources."

"He doesn't."

"Right."

Elizabeth thought for a moment. "Then why does he visit Richard?"

"He's threaten to leak the story about Georgiana."

Her back straightened. "He's blackmailing you?"

"I wouldn't say-"

"He is!" Elizabeth swore under her breath. "I can't believe he'd actually-"

"He's a desperate man."

"But, why don't you report him? I'm sure the police-"

"I can't because that would mean telling. . ."

She waited for him to continue, but she saw the struggle in his expression at finding the right words. Then realization hit her. "Wait," Elizabeth faced the dashboard. "Did. . . Georgiana. . . he tried. . ." She looked at him with wide eyes.

His eyes focused on the speedometer which of course read zero because they were sitting still on the side of the road. Feeling like they were running out of time, William felt he should talk while he drove to Elizabeth's apartment.

"Yes." William turned the engine on again, but Elizabeth stopped him by placing her hand on his arm. He pulled the key out and said, "I was away on business, and Richard was living with us for a while, but he was working late in the office." With the keys in his hand, he rested it on his knee. "George had been living in the guest house on our property. Things were strained and we acted civil whenever we saw each other, but the trust fund issue wiped away our friendship. He was getting ready to find a new place to live."

Elizabeth hugged herself to stop her body from trembling.

"The housekeeper had left for the evening, leaving Georgiana by herself. She was sixteen at the time. It wasn't like leaving a ten year old alone, but I should've. . . Richard was going to be there. George had decided to throw a party. A farewell party because he was moving, but it included mostly his friends. Georgiana went to go join them."

He looked at Elizabeth. "At the time, she had no idea what was happening between George and myself. I mean, I think she could tell something was wrong, but we were always civil in front of her, so she had no idea about his deceit with his debts. I should've told her." The last was said more to himself.

After a moment, he continued, "The party carried on well into the night which disturbed some of the neighbors. Since I was out of town and the housekeeper was gone for the evening, Richard got the call from the police about the disturbance. The music was very loud." William ran his fingers through his hair. "When Richard got home, he couldn't find Georgie. He went to the guesthouse and there were still a lot of people there even after the police made an appearance. He tried to break up the party while at the same time looking for Georgiana. George was missing too."

"Oh no. . ." Her voice was barely whisper.

"George had friends waiting outside his bedroom. When Richard asked them where George was, they said they didn't know. Of course, Richard didn't believe them, knowing how trustworthy George can be. He made it through to George's room and saw. . . Georgiana was there too."

Elizabeth said, "Was she alright?"

He nodded. "It seems that Richard got there just in time."

She put a hand on her chest, taking in a deep breath. After a moment, she said, "Did she press charges? Did he go to jail?"

"No."

She sat up in her seat. "What? Why?"

He let out a short breath. "After Richard found Georgiana, the police showed up again. The neighbors were fed up with the noise. George claimed that Georgiana was feeling sick and had come to lay down in his room. That he was checking on her."

"You guys believed him?"

"Of course not! I wanted to kick his-" He looked at Elizabeth. "Georgiana was sixteen and. . . she couldn't face all the questions and then the media. . . can you imagine the field day they would have at finding out that the heiress to the Darcy fortune was caught underage drinking and engaging in. . . questionable behavior."

"But-" Elizabeth opened her mouth then closed it.

"Georgiana said that George had given her a drink. She didn't have that much, but she said it made her sleepy. The next thing she knew, she was in his bedroom and Richard was waking her up."

"Did he put something in her drink?"

He shrugged. "There's no way to prove it. It could easily be argued that she had too much to drink."

"So, you're telling me he got away with it? He just got away?"

"He did get cited for serving alcohol to a minor."

It was a good thing the car had been stopped because Elizabeth flew out of it. William ran out after her.

"Elizabeth, where are you going?" He followed her a few feet away from the car.

She turned around. "Nowhere. I just-How could he get away with this? Georgiana was just-" A realization struck her. "Oh my-Do you think he tried to do the same thing to Lydia? Do you think he-"

He placed his hands on her shoulders. "I don't know what happened, but. . . I had to tell you so you'd know. You'd know what to expect."

She shrugged away his hands. "Know what to expect? You're telling me that I should be prepared for the fact that my sister might've been-"

"Elizabeth," He took her hand. "We don't know what happened to Lydia, but we do know Craig was there to stop it."

She could feel her hand shaking in his. "If I ever see him-"

"It's alright to be scared."

She whipped her hand away. "You think I'm scared? You think I'm scared of a man who preys on young girls? So help me, if I ever see that man again, I will-" Elizabeth stopped herself. Once she was able to steady her breathing, she said, "We have to go. I need to see Lydia." She walked back to the car.

It was a moment before William followed her. Her hand shaking and the glassy look in her eyes lead him to believe she was scared. He had never seen anyone overcome with so much anger. He thought he could comfort her even maybe protect her.

He walked back to the car and started the engine. Elizabeth was already strapped in. They got back on the road, both consumed in their own thoughts.

After a moment, Elizabeth said, "I'm sorry for my outburst."

"There's no need to apologize. I understand." Those were the last words they spoke until they arrived at Elizabeth's apartment.

It was past three in the morning when the finally arrived at her place. They managed to find a parking place in front of it. The car had not even come to a complete stop when Elizabeth jumped out. She was half way up the steps when she stopped.

"My bag!"

William was unloading the car. "I've got it. You go ahead."

She went back up the steps, yelling a "Thank you" over her shoulder. When she got the door, she took out her keys, jiggling them around for the house key. She was saved from the search when the door opened.

"Elizabeth!"

"Jane!" Elizabeth embraced her sister. "Where's Lydia?"

"She's in your bedroom."

Elizabeth went straight to her room.

Jane said, "Wait-"

But Elizabeth was already opening the door. Lydia sat on her bed. Sitting next to her was Georgiana. "What-"

Jane was standing behind her. "Georgiana was the one who brought Lydia here."

Before Elizabeth could say anything, William had come to the doorway. "I didn't know where-" He took a furtive glance of the room, but when he saw his sister there, he did a double take. "Georgiana?"

Georgiana sat up. "I was at the bar tonight."

Elizabeth said, "But I thought it was Craig who-"

"He was." She shifted in her seat. "I was the one who saw them leave."

Lydia said, "What's the big deal? I was fine."

Elizabeth strode over the bed. She examined Lydia.

Lydia, not liking to be poked and prodded, said, "What are you doing?"

"Are you hurt?"

"No." Lydia squirmed away from Elizabeth's hand. "I'm fine."

"But, you were with George Wickham."

"Yeah, so?"

"So?" Elizabeth grabbed her arm. "You could've been hurt. He could've-

Lydia snapped her arm away. "Nothing happened. Look, just because you were interested in him-"

"What?"

Jane crossed the room and held Elizabeth back. "Elizabeth-"

"Do you know how worried I was? I thought-"

Jane pulled her away. "She's alright."

Elizabeth stopped in the middle of the room and looked at Lydia. "I don't want you near that man again."

"I'm sorry if you're jealous-"

Elizabeth was across the room in less than a second and up in Lydia's face. "He is a disgusting man who should rot in a jail cell. If I ever hear that he's near you again, I'm pressing charges."

"Don't you think you're taking this too far? Press charges?" Lydia looked around the room for support, but received none based on the serious expressions on everyone's face.

"Everyone needs to leave the room."

All eyes were on Georgiana.

William said, "Georgiana, you don't have to-"

She held up her hand. "Yes, I do."

"What? Do what?" Lydia looked around the room again.

Elizabeth looked at Georgiana with a slight bit of apprehension. Georgiana realized Elizabeth knew. She gave her a reassuring smile before Georgiana said, "She needs to know the truth."

Elizabeth said, "Are you sure?"

Georgiana nodded.

With one last look at Lydia, Elizabeth left the room followed by Jane. William stood in the doorway.

Georgiana said, "I'll be fine."

He looked like he was about to say something, but seeing the determined expression on her face, instead he shut the door and left them alone.

"Know the truth about what?"

Georgiana turned to face Lydia. "About George Wickham."

"What's there to know?"

She took a deep fortifying breath. Then she asked, "What did he tell you to get you to leave the bar?"

Lydia's brow wrinkled. "What are you talking about?"

"Did he tell you he wanted to show you a movie script?"

Lydia bent her knees to her chest. "Maybe."

"Did he also tell you that he wanted you to read the lines for the female lead role? That maybe you might be able to try out for it?"

Lydia did not say anything.

"You're not the first he used those lines on."

Lydia had a cross expression on her face.

"I was sixteen too when he used them on me." When she did not hear Lydia say anything, she continued, "I've known him since I was a baby."

"Really?"

She nodded. "I trusted him."

The cross expression on Lydia's face disappeared.

"He was having a party and my brother was out of town and my cousin was working late. I was a little scared, but George knew exactly what to say to make me feel better. He gave me a drink." She saw Lydia shift in her spot. Georgiana continued, "At first, I said I didn't want it, but he. . . he said he wouldn't tell on me and no one would know." She tried to smile, but only had half a smile. "So, I took it. But, after a while, I felt funny."

Lydia lifted her head up from her knees. "Are you sure you weren't drunk?"

"I only had one glass. I mean, even though I never had a drink before that, I don't think one beer was supposed to have that kind of an effect on a person. After I had finished it, I got so tired. It was hard just keeping my eyes open."

"Do. . . do you think he put something in your drink?"

Georgiana nodded. "That's the only thing I can think of."

"Did anything happen?"

She looked straight at Lydia. "Almost. My cousin Richard stopped him before anything else could happen."

"Anything else?"

"We were making out before I got tired." Georgiana looked down at the pink floral covered pillow in front of Lydia. "I don't know what came over me, but it took me a long time to realize it wasn't my fault."

"But, you were making out with him."

"Yeah, but just because I was making out with him doesn't mean that I had to. . . do anything else especially if I didn't want to."

Lydia rested her chin on her knees. She was quiet for a long time.

After several minutes, Georgiana said, "Just because he's a famous actor, doesn't mean he can have whatever he wants. I mean think about it," Georgiana had a serious expression on her face. "If he wasn't famous, he'd be this old guy who takes advantage of girls. If he didn't have his acting career, George Wickham would probably make up something just to impress girls. Being famous is not an excuse to do whatever you want."

"So, are you saying that he. . . he knew what he was doing?"

"I was only sixteen when it happened. He was twenty-four. That was four years ago and he's still pulling the same thing."

Lydia hugged herself.

"I just wish. . . I wish I had said or done something about it. I was so scared about going to the police and what the news reporters would say about my family. If I had been strong enough," She gave Lydia a sorrowful look. "Then maybe. . . I can't even imagine how many times he's done this and I could've done something about it."

Lydia's legs dropped and she sat Indian style in front of Georgiana. She thought for a minute before she said, "I'd been sneaking out to Craig's bar for a few nights. I couldn't believe George Wickham was there. I had such a crush on him and when he started paying attention to me, I just couldn't believe it." Lydia traced the floral pattern on the pillow. "But, tonight was different. He offered me a drink. A part of me thought I shouldn't because I didn't want to get Charlotte's brothers in trouble, but. . . I also didn't want George to think I was lame."

Lydia's voice became unsteady. "He had been talking about this script and after I had a few sips of the drink, I got drowsy. He asked if I wanted to come back to his place and see that script. I don't remember if I said yes or no."

"It looked like he was kind of carrying you out."

"Really?"

Georgiana nodded. "I told Craig."

"It's hard for me to remember everything. I just remember that George started kissing me. I don't remember anything else." Lydia looked at Georgiana.

"When I came out after Craig, he had George on the ground and you. . ."

"What? What happened?"

"Before anyone else came, I put your shirt back in order."

Tears welled up in Lydia's eyes, but she did not sob. Instead, she said, "Thanks."

Georgiana said, "I'm sorry."

She shook her head. "I didn't realize. . . I didn't know. . ."

Georgiana took Lydia in her arms and smoothed down her hair. "It's not your fault."

"But, I should've been able to. . . I should've-"

"If I had done something before, this wouldn't have happened to you."

Lydia looked up and saw that tears were running down Georgiana's face. "If I've learned anything from Elizabeth and Charlotte is that no man is worth crying over."

Georgiana laughed. "I wish I had someone like them when. . ."

Lydia wiped her face. "I thought I'd never admit this, but I guess I am lucky to have older sisters."

"Yes, you are."

Lydia gave Georgiana a warm smile. "I'm making you an honorary sister."

"Me?"

Lydia nodded. "I don't think my other sisters will mind."

Georgina laughed again and hugged Lydia. "Thank you. You and Elizabeth are so nice."

It was Lydia's turn to laugh. "First things first, Jane is the nice one. Elizabeth is the witty one. Mary is smart. Kitty-uh, Catherine is thoughtful, and I'm. . ."

"Still growing?"

Lydia laughed again. "That's a good one. I like it better than spoiled."

There was a knock on the door. Lydia said, "Come in."

Elizabeth entered with two mugs and a plate of cookies on a tray. "I have some tea." She put the tray down at the foot of the bed. "There are cookies too. Jane just baked them. Chocolate chip."

Lydia said, "Thanks."

Georgiana stood up.

Lydia said, "Where are you going?"

"I thought you two would want some privacy."

Elizabeth said, "No, you stay. I just wanted to make sure Lydia was alright."

Georgiana said, "But, I'm sure both of you want to talk."

Elizabeth said, "It's alright. She'll talk to me when she's ready."

"But-"

"Will both of you sit down," Lydia said.

Georgiana took her spot and Elizabeth slid the tray over to make room for herself.

Elizabeth said, "Lydia, I'm sorry for-"

"Don't, Lizzy." Elizabeth smiled at her younger sister's endearment for her. Lydia continued, "I'm the one who's sorry. I said some really stupid things."

"But, I shouldn't have come at you like that."

"But, you're supposed to. You're Lizzy."

Elizabeth let out a soft laugh.

Lydia's face softened. "I was stupid."

Georgiana and Elizabeth spoke at the same time, but Lydia continued, "Lizzy, I know boys aren't everything, but he made me feel. . ."

Georgiana said, "Special?"

Lydia nodded.

Elizabeth put her hand on Lydia's arm. "It's nice when someone makes you feel that way and if he's famous and it makes all the other girls jealous than it's even better."

Lydia and Georgiana laughed.

"But-"

Lydia cut in. "But, you can't let that be the only reason why you like someone."

Elizabeth gave her a warm smile.

Then Lydia reached for Elizabeth to hug her. Lydia's voice was muffled. "I'm so sorry, Lizzy. I hope you're not disappointed."

Elizabeth hugged her tight. "Of course not. I was just so worried." She looked over at Georgiana and mouthed the words, "Thank you."

Jane knocked on the door before she entered. "I have more cookies."

All three ladies laughed. Jane joined them and said, "You haven't even finished the first batch." She looked at them with a hurt expression. "Is something wrong with them?"

Elizabeth pulled Jane onto the bed. "Of course not! We've just been talking this whole time."

"Everything alright?"

Lydia said, "Yes. Everything's better."

"Good."

"Is this what it's like to have sisters?" Georgiana asked.

Lydia said, "Yup. If one knows something, everyone has to know." She grinned at her. "And since you're an honorary sister, there's no escaping now."

Georgiana laughed.

Elizabeth said, "You've made Georgiana an honorary sister?"

"Yes," Lydia took a cookie and passed it to Georgiana. "I hope you guys don't mind."

Jane said, "Of course not. I think that's wonderful."

Elizabeth smiled and then said, "I just hope she's able to tolerate all of us."

Georgiana said, "So, far it seems really nice." She bit into the cookie Lydia had handed her.

There was a tentative knock on the door. It was William.

He said, "Everything alright?"

Georgiana said, "Everything's good."

William said, "Are you sure I can't get you anything?"

Georgiana said, "I think everything's-"

"How about some ice-cream?"

Lydia's shoulders straightened.

Catching her interest, William said, "What flavor do you like?"

"Uh. . . Mint & Chip."

"Alright. I'll be right back."

Elizabeth was about to protest, but he was gone before she could get a word in. She said, "It's nearly five in the morning. Does he expect Lydia to eat it now?"

Lydia said, "I'm not going to eat it now. It's the thought that counts."

"But, you didn't have to send him out. He's probably really tired."

Georgiana said, "Boys are different. They have to do something to feel helpful."

They all looked at Georgiana. She said, "Maybe someday all of you will have a chance to feel what it's like to have a brother."

Everyone looked at Elizabeth. She opened and closed her mouth several times before she said, "I'm going to make more tea."

All three giggled as she left the room.

Jane turned to Lydia. "Are you sure you're alright?"

She nodded.

Jane kissed the top of her head. "I'll check in on you again later. I have to call Charles to let him know you're alright."

"OK."

When Jane left the room, Georgiana said, "It really is nice having sisters."

Lydia smiled. After they drank some of their tea, Lydia said, "So, what's going on between Lizzy and William?"

Georgiana raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

"I don't think she would've reacted that way if Craig had offered to buy ice-cream." Lydia saw that Georgiana still had a confused look on her face. "Elizabeth wouldn't have thought it was a big deal. Just like you don't think it's a big deal."

"Because he's my brother?"

"Right."

"So, Elizabeth likes Craig just as brother."

"Yeah."

"And you think she doesn't feel that way towards William."

Lydia shrugged. "That's why I'm asking you what's going on between them."

Georgiana thought for a minute before she said, "I'm pretty sure my brother likes your sister, but he's in total denial."

Lydia's features brightened. "Really?"

Elizabeth closed her bedroom door. She had checked on Lydia and Georgiana again and had another conversation, but this time it was mostly about what Elizabeth's plans were for the weekend. When they discovered that she was free, Lydia asked if it was alright if they could have a sleep over with their other sisters and if Georgiana could come over since her brother would be out of town. Unable to refuse the hopeful look on each of their faces, Elizabeth agreed that she would be happy to host the slumber party.

She insisted that Lydia get some sleep, but Lydia wanted Georgiana to stay, so Georgiana obliged. Elizabeth was not sure how much sleep they would get, but was pleased at the new friendship that they developed.

Elizabeth walked to Jane's room and heard her just get off the phone with their father.

Elizabeth said, "How did he take the news?"

"As well as can be expected. He's concerned and wants Lydia home as soon as she's awake."

"Of course. Does he want us to be there?"

"Yes."

"Alright. What happened to Charles?"

"He was here when Georgiana brought Lydia. He went back to the bar to talk to Craig and Peter."

"How are they doing?"

"They feel bad about what happened to Lydia, but they're going to make sure George Wickham never shows his face at the bar again."

"Good."

"There are a lot of things we'll have to discuss, but get some rest first."

"I know you're right. If you need me, I'll be on the couch."

"I believe it's already taken."

"What?"

"Go and look."

Elizabeth walked to the living room. When she passed the easy chair, she saw that William was asleep on the couch. However, his legs were crossed at the ankles and propped up on the coffee table and he had his fingers laced over his chest.

She did not have the heart to wake him up. He had driven the entire way back here and he went out for ice cream. Elizabeth was also sure that he had been worried when he saw Georgiana was here.

Elizabeth went around the couch, so she would not disturb him. She was careful to sit several inches away from him on the couch, but near enough to hear his steady breathing.

Now she understood why he was so careful about who he associated with in his personal life. Elizabeth could never say she hated someone. She could dislike someone very much, but not hate. However, for the first time, she felt like she could actually hate George Wickham.

She turned sideways so that she was facing William. There were so many things that had happened in just the last five hours that she wanted to think over and process. However, she got lost in tracing the outline of William's features with her eyes and eventually fell asleep, knowing it would be the last chance she would get to openly admire his face.

Continued In Next Section