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Chapter 21 ~ Anticipation

Posted on Saturday, 7 February 2004

"A true saying it is, desire hath no rest."
~ Robert Burton- The Anatomy of Melancholy"

The next morning, Friday.

Elizabeth tried to hold on to what was left of her slumber. Her dream was a mixture of what happened two evenings ago when they had all gone out to dinner and a little of what her imagination had hoped happened afterwards with William. Unfortunately, she couldn't hold onto the dream because it slipped away as her senses became aware of the waking sounds of the Gardiner home.

She could not believe so many things happened in the last week between herself and William. By Monday, they had established such a familiarity over Instant Messenger that Elizabeth admitted she wanted to see him face to face. The next day, Tuesday, her wish came true. She was shocked when she saw him sitting in that meeting with Richard, but she was also pleased. Wednesday evening was the designated dinner night they had all decided the week before. Elizabeth enjoyed going out with her friends, but this time there was an eager anticipation welling up because William would be joining them.

The last two days were almost a blur. Wednesday she was thrilled and confident about pursuing something more than friendship with William. Then Thursday she was overcome with doubt and discouragement.

However, Elizabeth was not one to let things bring her down for very long. She was glad to be visiting her relatives in San Francisco. Her young cousins took up much of her attention, and she was able to evaluate the change her feelings underwent without going into a state of despair.

Elizabeth was brought back to the present by the sound of Thomas, the toddler, crying. Thomas was usually good natured. What made him cranky was if he was awoken abruptly. From the sound of his wailing, it was probably one of his elder sisters who tried to wake him with little consideration.

She climbed out of bed and got dressed. Thomas was easy to placate if you rubbed his back. Elizabeth was thankful for such distractions, so that her mind could not drift back to the wounding event that happened Thursday in William's office.

Madeline Gardiner heard her son's wailing from downstairs. She and her husband were stealing a rare moment this morning and indulging in something they seldom did due to having three young children: Eating breakfast together. However, when they heard Thomas' crying, Madeline could not ignore it and went upstairs to investigate.

Now, she was standing in the doorway of the nursery watching her favorite niece comfort Thomas, and entertain her daughters by reading them a story. She cleared her throat, "Elizabeth, I can take it from here."

She looked up from the book she was reading and shifted Thomas from one side of her lap to the other. "Oh, I'm alright. You can finish breakfast."

"Thank you, but I was nearly done anyway." She hesitated before she said, "And I think there's something your uncle wants to discuss with you."

Elizabeth handed Thomas to her aunt. "Is everything alright?"

"Everything's fine. He, I guess, we are a little surprised by an invitation we received this morning."

"An invitation? What's so surprising about it?"

"Well, it was unexpected and we. . . the party is for this evening."

Elizabeth smiled. "Oh. Aunt Madeline, there's no reason for you to be embarrassed."

Her aunt gave her a curious expression.

"I know you're all supposed to keep me entertained because I'm a guest, but I don't mind staying with the kids if you and Uncle Edward want to attend the party."

"No, it's not that." She tried to keep her amusement and bewilderment about the situation in check. "You're invited too."

"Me?"

Her aunt nodded. "Your uncle wanted to talk to you about it."

"Alright." Elizabeth left the room confused.

When she entered the kitchen, Elizabeth saw that her uncle was in the breakfast nook, sitting at the table. He was sipping his coffee and reading the paper.

Elizabeth sat next to him. "Good morning."

He smiled. "Morning."

She helped herself to some juice and toast. "Aunt Madeline said that you received an invitation to a party tonight."

He nodded.

"Uh. . . she also said it was unexpected."

"It was."

Elizabeth sipped her juice and then buttered her toast. She refrained from asking more questions by eating her toast. Elizabeth realized that her uncle was not very talkative while he read the sports page.

When he folded up the paper, he said, "Now, what were you asking?"

"About an invitation for a party tonight."

"Oh, right. It was quite unexpected. Your aunt and I are looking forward to attending."

"I had offered to baby-sit."

"There's no need."

"Oh."

"It was generous of him, but then it should be no surprise."

Elizabeth stared at her uncle.

He refilled his coffee cup and continued, "The Napa Valley Winemakers' Annual Toast celebration is a once in a lifetime event. At least, for your aunt and I. It's exclusively for the winemaking community and getting an invitation is no easy feat especially if you're not part of that community."

"I see."

"Everyone at work will be envious when I tell them next week. I'll be forever in his debt. Although he insists that he'd be in our debt. Can you believe that? After all he's done. If he hadn't helped out with the Wickham case-"

"What?"

"He helped out on the Wi-" The delight in Edward's face evaporated. "Oh dear."

"Who are you talking about?"

He shifted in his seat and was relieved when his wife walked in.

She said, "Would you like more coffee, Edward? I can put on some eggs if either of you are hungry. The girls will be down soon and-" Madeline saw a range of expressions on her husband's and niece's faces ranging from apologetic to confusion, so she proceeded with great care, "I take it you both discussed the party tonight."

"Not quite." Edward cleared his throat.

"Who's throwing this party?"

Madeline and Edward exchanged bewildered looks. It was Madeline who said, "William Darcy. We thought. . . you and him. . ."

Elizabeth turned to her uncle. "What do you mean he helped out with the Wickham case?"

"Edward?"

He looked at his wife and then at his niece. "I. . . uh. . ."

Madeline joined them at the table. "Elizabeth, we thought you knew what happened."

Her uncle shifted in his seat. "Actually, William made it clear that he didn't want anyone to know of his involvement." Elizabeth looked at him with utter bewilderment and his wife gave him an expectant look. He hesitated before he said, "He was very clear that I was not to share any details of his involvement, but," he looked at his niece, "I thought you'd be made aware of it already."

"No," Elizabeth searched her uncle's face for answers, "He didn't tell me anything."

Edward's brow furrowed. "Why. . ." He shook his head. "I'm sorry you weren't made aware of his involvement. I assumed he didn't want the media catching wind of his involvement because of his sister."

"He can be protective of his sister."

He nodded in agreement. "William's involvement in Wickham's case is indirect, but he did everything within his power to make sure Wickham would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

Elizabeth thought for a moment. Then she said, "Was Gabe Halifax involved?"

"So, you do know something?"

She shook her head. "I met him once and. . .William's aunt mentioned his name in a conversation. It didn't make sense at the time, so I just dismissed it. But, now. . ." Elizabeth realized that there was some merit in Catherine Debourgh's accusations, but how would Caroline have known about Halifax's involvement? If it was Caroline who was Catherine Debourgh's 'little bird'. These were details that she did not ponder on for very long because there was the more pressing matter of William's involvement in her sister's case.

"You're telling me that William hired Gabe Halifax to work on Lydia's case?"

He nodded. "Gabe's role in the case was more like an assistant to me, the Assistant District Attorney. Unofficial, of course. He devoted a lot of hours researching and making sure the details of the case would hold up in court. If it hadn't been for him, we wouldn't have gotten Lydia's blood results in such a timely manner."

"What did Gabe do?"

"He used connections to find out what happened to the results. It seems they were misplaced by a new clerk." He shook his head.

Elizabeth digested the information. It was probably an honest mistake, but such a mistake would have been detrimental to Lydia's case. She knew her uncle had done everything within his power to help Lydia, but it seems it was William who in the end saw things through. Without him, her family would still be suffering the uncertainties of what would happen to Wickham.

"Why didn't he tell me?" Elizabeth mumbled.

Her aunt reached across the table and squeezed her hand. "I don't know. We're just as surprised as you. If anyone, we thought you'd be aware of William's role in the matter."

"Why would you think that?"

She gave Elizabeth a bemused look. "We thought you and him. . . that there was something between the both of you."

Elizabeth blinked several times. "Something between us? I don't understand."

Her uncle said, "It seems like he thinks very highly of you."

"What would make you think that?"

Edward continued, "He asked about you this morning when he called. He sounded very concerned."

"He called this morning?"

"He called to invite us to the party tonight. When he asked how you were doing, I said you were fine, but asleep at the moment. He didn't want to disturb you, otherwise I think he would've talked to you."

Elizabeth's thoughts were in a whirl. She was surprised that he called her uncle that very morning. More surprising was his involvement with Wickham's case. She tried to remember if she had ever discussed the details of Lydia's case with William. She remembered that she very carefully avoided the subject with him. She also remembered the day she received the news about the misplaced blood results. It was the same day as the Darcy's holiday party. She had confided in Jane, but she was sure that she kept her distress mostly to herself. Elizabeth realized then that her distress must have been obvious because she recalled that William had spent most of the evening behind closed doors with Gabe Halifax.

When the realization hit her, Elizabeth closed her eyes and shook her head.

"Are you alright?"

Elizabeth nodded, but kept her eyes down. She couldn't meet the concerned look in her aunt's eyes.

"Well, I'm sure the party tonight will lift your spirits."

Elizabeth had forgotten about the party. "What time will it start?"

"At seven this evening, but we're invited to come this afternoon." There was a sparkle in her uncle's eyes. "William thought the children would enjoy getting to see the ranch during the day."

"Oh."

"We should start packing." Her aunt stood up.

"Packing?"

Her uncle stood up as well. "We've also been invited to stay for the weekend."

Elizabeth followed her aunt and uncle upstairs. "But, I don't have anything to wear tonight."

Before disappearing into the master bedroom, Edward said, "Everything's been taken care of. Oh, I'm also supposed to remind you to check your e-mail."

She went into the guest room and took out her laptop. While she waited for it to turn on, Elizabeth packed away the few things she had left out. Before she had any time to process what was going on, her computer was on and she opened her e-mail program.

She was surprised to see several messages. She was gone for only a day and there were messages from Jane, Mary, and Georgiana. There was also one from William. She decided to open that one last. She opened the one from Jane first.

Dear Elizabeth,

I hope by now, Uncle Edward has told you about tonight's party. We're all excited about going. It is short notice, but we're looking forward to visiting the ranch. We should be there this afternoon. William has a jet.

I was going to bring your black cocktail dress, but Georgiana said that she has a dress in mind for you already. Georgiana has good taste, so I wouldn't worry too much.

Mary will be joining us as well. Aunt Madeline was worried about bringing the children because there would be no one to look after them during the party tonight. Mary volunteered. Kitty and Lydia are so jealous.

Well, I have to get going. I'm really looking forward to tonight. Give my love to the Gardiners.

Jane

To say that Elizabeth was confused would be an understatement. Jane was under the assumption that she knew all the details of what was going on. Elizabeth was not sure what Jane meant by 'we'. She was sure that it included Charles because they were engaged. Obviously, Georgiana would be in attendance tonight. She opened Mary's message.

Hi Elizabeth,

Just to let you know, I'll be at the ranch tonight, looking after the kids. Don't feel like you have to worry about that, I'm more than happy to baby-sit.

Kitty and Lydia say hi, but they're upset that they can't go. Well, more like dad won't let them. He thinks three Bennet sisters are enough for the Darcy ranch. The dress Georgiana has for you is beautiful.

I'll see you later today.

Mary

Elizabeth moved on to Georgiana's message. She could not help feeling that her sisters and Georgiana had formed another alliance to throw herself and William together. For some reason, the idea did not annoy her as much as she thought it would. She read Georgiana's message.

Elizabeth,

You've probably talked to your uncle and got messages from your sisters. I'm sorry it's short notice and I hope the Gardiners don't mind us taking some of your time to visit them.

We're very excited about tonight. I look forward to the Toast party every year. You're probably wondering why we never mentioned the party before. It's actually a long story. Let's just say that this year's host was unable to have the party and my brother stepped in to help them out. It's stressful, but not so bad because we were last year's host and Mrs. Reynolds is totally on top of things.

I hope you don't mind, but I've picked out a dress for you. I've had it for some time, but I haven't worn it. To be honest, I think the style would be more flattering with your looks than with mine. I hope you like it. Jane assures me that you will.

I'm also a little nervous too. Craig has agreed to come to the party tonight. He was reluctant, but when I told him that Richard was bringing Charlotte, he was more open to it. I really hope his reluctance was due to being around a lot of people he doesn't know.

Anyway, we have to get ready. William's got the jet on stand by and there's so much to do before we leave. I'll see you later.

Georgie

Elizabeth let out a deep sigh. If she could, she would give Craig a smack on the back of his head right now. Craig was never one for fancy affairs. Although having his sister attend might have helped him decide to go, the idea that Georgiana might be in the company of young eligible men was probably the deciding factor. Elizabeth knew that Craig could be stubborn, but he was definitely not stupid.

Elizabeth heard her aunt collect the children to go downstairs for breakfast. She thought she should help her aunt, so that she could finish packing. Elizabeth had one more message to read and she knew she could not ignore it. She opened William's message.

Dear Elizabeth,

I hope you and your relatives are doing well. I'm looking forward to meeting your aunt and your cousins. I've spoken a few times with your uncle and he seems like a nice man. I'm sure he's even greater in person.

I hope you're not too upset that I've invited you all to the Toast party tonight. I know your family is very important to you. I hope I didn't ruin any plans you had. Your uncle assures me that I didn't.

I didn't realize when you came up to see me in my office that you'd be leaving town that afternoon. Our parting was abrupt and had I known you'd be leaving so soon, well, I wouldn't have let you leave like that.

I've got to finish up with some last minute details. I'm really looking forward to seeing you tonight.

William

PS
The cookies were delicious. Richard is very jealous.

Elizabeth closed up the program and shut down her computer. She did not write any of them back because she would see them all tonight. There were so many emotions stirring in her that she did not know what she was feeling. She was half anticipation, half dreading the party. A part of her was eager and curious to see what the ranch was like. It seemed everyone else besides her knew about it. She also wanted to see what kind of life William and Georgiana lead outside of LA.

Another part of her was still smarting from what happened in William's office the day before. She had intended to thank him for recommending her to his cousin Anne for the column, and also perhaps opening the door for something more to happen between them. She had carried out her plan, but it had not turned out the way she had hoped. William's assumption to anticipate her reaction deflated any hopes she carried.

Elizabeth did not usually brood on matters, but when it came to William, she found herself thinking about him more and more. He had anticipated an argument from her. He was ready to fight.

When Elizabeth realized this, it made her think about all her dealings with him. Before he had returned from New York, most of her dealings with William ended up in an argument due to a misunderstanding on her part. She was the one who was ready to argue, or find some thing to argue about.

She wondered how William had tolerated her at all.

To add to her self reproach, the fact that he had helped her family even when she behaved in such a rude way, made her feel even worse. She was ready to believe that he thought the worst of her and that if he said something to her, it was to point out some fault. She knew now that was not the case. It never was. What she believed to be arrogance and conceit was really honesty and sincerity. Elizabeth knew he cared, but she never knew the depths of his feelings or the extent of his devotion.

Elizabeth also realized that she would have to fix it some how. But, how does one fix a mistake like this? How does a person set out to amend their character? It was not something done easily and in a short period. She knew if she really wanted William to trust and respect her, she would have to earn it and it would take time.

The first thing she decided to do was to thank William for his help with Lydia's case. Even though her uncle told her that he did not want his involvement to be known, Elizabeth could not pretend that William did not do anything. She also hoped that her gratitude for his help would show that she was aware of his true feelings.

From there, she was not sure what else she could do. If she really wanted to win William's approval, Elizabeth knew it would take some time. She also knew that any effort to contrive a way to improve his opinion of her would not only be artificial, but also the wrong way to get his approval.

She went downstairs to help her aunt. Madeline was grateful for the assistance and took the chance to finish packing. Elizabeth watched over her cousins, thankful for the distraction.

Elizabeth was looking forward to the party, but she also felt humble to the idea that she would have to improve her character in the eyes of William. She would try, but in the back of her mind, Elizabeth knew that she did nothing to deserve William.

Chapter 22 ~ Matchmaking

Posted on Saturday, 14 February 2004

It is unfair to judge of anybody's conduct without an intimate knowledge of their situation.
~ Emma from Emma

The ranch, as everyone had referred to it, was more than just a patch of farming land. Elizabeth stood at the edge of the yard of the main house and scanned the endless hillsides of grapevines on the estate. Besides the vineyard, the estate also had apple and orange orchards that were in bloom with new buds. There were also gardens shaded by sprawling oaks and cypresses. This is what Elizabeth saw at first glance. Who knew what other possibilities the estate possessed? And why did they refer to this place as merely a ranch? It was so much more. This place was a veritable Eden. She could imagine staying here indefinitely.

Elizabeth's daydreaming was interrupted by the sounds of the girls laughing and chasing each other while Thomas tried to keep up with his sisters. Her aunt and uncle were talking to the housekeeper, Mrs. Reynolds. She had told them the rest of the guests had not arrived yet. Elizabeth was relieved. She needed some time to collect herself after discovering the grandness of the ranch.

She and the children heard movement from a partition of trees that hid a worn path. The children gathered around Elizabeth, afraid that the ranch was also home of a monstrous predator. She picked up Thomas and in the next minute, a young man came around one of the trees.

He looked to be in his early twenties with chestnut coloring and the build of a man who was familiar with working on a ranch. His jeans and shirt were well worn, but they were clean and neat. He greeted Elizabeth and the children with an open and friendly expression.

He tipped his Stetson at them. "Good afternoon."

"Good afternoon." Elizabeth replied. The children remained silent.

"Mrs. Reynolds said we would be having some guests this afternoon." He wore a kind expression on his face. "I'm Robert Martin. I take care of things around here."

The girls let go of Elizabeth's legs and gave him a hesitant smile. Thomas gurgled.

Elizabeth said, "It's nice to meet you, Mr. Martin. My name is Elizabeth." She tapped each girl on the shoulder. "This is Laura and Kate." She shifted her weight, so that the toddler was more visible. "And this is Thomas. He's a little shy right now."

Mr. Martin smiled at the boy who buried his face in Elizabeth's neck. "Please, call me Robert."

Mrs. Reynolds and her aunt and uncle approached them. Mrs. Reynolds introduced the couple to Robert and they exchanged greetings.

"How do you like the ranch so far?" Robert asked.

Edward said, "It's lovely. It's much more than we imagined it to be."

"We can see why the Darcys are so private." Madeline smoothed down Laura's hair. "People would come in droves if they knew what was behind those gates."

Robert smiled. "I'm glad you all approve."

Elizabeth's brow furrowed. "But, why is it called a ranch?"

Robert and Mrs. Reynolds exchanged looks of mild amusement. It was Mrs. Reynolds who said, "What else would you call it?"

"An estate? A vineyard?" Even those labels were inadequate.

"I suppose those could be appropriate names for this place, but then we'd have trouble with people who'd want to see the estate."

"I see."

Robert continued, "And as far as I can tell, this place has always been just the ranch to the Darcys."

Mrs. Reynolds added, "Well, that's what this place was at first, a ranch. The first Darcy, James, bred horses here. It was the later generations who experimented with growing fruits and then eventually they tried their hand at winemaking."

"Was wine making the most successful venture?"

"I'd have to say publishing was."

"Of course." Elizabeth felt the back of her neck grow warm. "But, it seems the Darcys still have a hand in winemaking."

"They still keep a hand in many things. I suppose you could say publishing is what enables them to keep an interest in other things."

"If we have time, I can give a quick tour of the stables." Robert offered.

Mrs. Reynolds looked at her watch and then at the eager faces of the young girls. "There's some time."

Mrs. Reynolds stayed behind, attending to details of the party. The rest of them followed Robert to the stables. They walked on the worn path that Robert had emerged from. Just before they reached the stables, they walked under an archway entwined with grapevines. The archway was aged and rustic. There weren't any grapes because spring was still a couple of months away, but Elizabeth could well imagine how it would look.

When they reached the stables, next to it was a pasture. Fenced in were some horses and a foal. The girls squealed with delight when they saw the young horse nuzzled close to its mother. The adults followed the girls lead and in no time they reached the fence. Robert told the girls about the foal and how they almost lost it and the mother. The girls listened with rapt attention while Thomas occupied himself with a dandelion that spurted out from under one of the fence posts.

Robert had managed to cajole the mother, and hence the foal, to the fence where the girls petted them and smiled with delight. Thomas held onto his mother's leg, afraid of the large animals who had come closer.

While the girls were preoccupied, Robert asked, "So how do you all like the cottage?"

"I think like all things on this place, it's quite lovely." Madeline smiled.

The 'cottage' that Robert referred to was the guest house. Mrs. Reynolds had the Gardiners and Elizabeth installed there. She thought it quite fitting for the young family because there was access to a small garden that the children could play in. Although the 'big' house was inviting and held no pretensions, it could be intimidating to three young children.

At first, Mrs. Reynolds had suggested that Elizabeth could have one of the guest rooms in the big house, but Elizabeth declined. Logistically, it would make sense for her to have a room in the big house and Mary take one of the rooms in the guest house, but since the rest of the guests had not arrived yet, Elizabeth did not want to be left alone in the main house. She also was not sure how to face William and it would no doubt be even more difficult with several guests in the house.

Elizabeth was confident that staying in the guest house would be close enough to be near William, but far enough so that she did not have any opportunity to make any further mistakes. She was determined to make things right with him. She figured she could not make any more mistakes if she was not around him often enough to open her mouth and say the wrong things. She mentally patted herself on the back for thinking of such a good plan.

Robert was in the middle of an infamous story about the first time William helped with the birthing of a foal. Robert was six and William was eleven years old. Although he was too young to even attend the birthing session, the story had been retold so many times, Robert could tell it with convincing authority.

Young William was familiar with the cycles of life on the ranch. What he wasn't prepared for was the waiting and the messy aftermath of the birthing process.

Robert was about to describe the expression on William's face when the foal popped out with buckets of amnio fluid that poured on William, when the man himself interrupted. "I was not as shocked as Robert would have you believe. I knew what was coming."

Everyone turned to the source of the voice and saw William standing at the fence. He was dressed in a pair of well worn jeans and a cream colored button down shirt that was untucked with the sleeves rolled up. Elizabeth could not help admiring his rugged look, and he also fit so well in the natural surroundings.

"William, we were expecting you." Robert came away from the horse and foal and shook hands with his employer. "Although you're not quite dressed to be useful around here."

Elizabeth detected a teasing tone in the young man's voice. Was he crazy? William was easily five years his senior and here was this younger man trying to get William to work. She wondered, besides the story about birthing the foal, if William had done any work on the land. She could not imagine the man she usually saw in an Armani suit shoveling waste out of the horse stalls.

"I'm actually here to collect the guests." He looked at Elizabeth and then at her aunt and uncle. "Jane is here. Along with other people you're acquainted with. They're all eager to see you."

Robert said, "It was nice meeting you folks." He tipped his hat to William. "I'll see you later."

William nodded.

Elizabeth cleared her throat. "I should introduce you to each other." She turned to her uncle. "You two are already familiar with each other. Uncle Edward, this is William Darcy."

The two men shook hands and smiled at each other like old friends.

Elizabeth continued, "This is my Aunt Madeline and their children." She brought out the two girls. "This is Laura and this is Kate." She pointed to the little boy who had climbed into Madeline's arms. "And this is Thomas."

He gave each person a warm smile. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you all. I've heard so much about you." He led the way back to the path. "Everyone's at the big house waiting."

Elizabeth walked behind William, her aunt, and uncle. She watched the children and half listened to their conversation. They didn't talk about anything of great importance. Her uncle expressed his eagerness about the party in the evening. He was looking forward to tasting some of the best wines of Napa Valley.

Her aunt asked, "Will there be any wines from the ranch?"

"Yes, except they'll be under the name of Pemberley Vineyard."

"Of course."

Elizabeth did not have an extensive knowledge of wine, but she knew enough that Pemberley was a good brand. Her father had a bottle, but never opened it. He always said he was saving it for a special occasion. She never knew that the Darcy family was synonymous with Pemberley wine.

When they reached the vine covered archway, the girls decided to run through it. Thomas tried to follow his sisters' suit, but could only hop along. Madeline excused herself to make sure the girls and Thomas did not hurt themselves. A minute later, Edward followed his wife. Madeline was having a hard time keeping up with the girls and walking with Thomas at the same time.

Elizabeth offered assistance, but her uncle declined. He picked up Thomas and ran after the girls, causing them to shriek and Thomas to giggle. Madeline was left in their wake, running after them and reminding them to mind their manners.

"They're a lovely family."

Elizabeth looked at William. "Yes." She continued walking. "They are."

He walked after her. When he caught up to her side, they walked in silence for a moment. William studied her profile and appreciated the way her white shirt show off her curvy figure and that her khaki capris revealed just a bit of her tanned calves.

"Everyone's at the house." He said, trying not to imagine what she'd look like in shorts.

"Everyone?"

"Jane, Charles, Georgie, Craig, Charlotte, Richard-"

"I didn't realize you had invited all of them."

"Mary is there too." He cleared his throat. "So, is Louisa, Hurst, and Caroline."

She almost did not hear the last part. "I see."

"Emma and Greg will be coming soon. Your cousins will have other kids to play with. Their children's' names are Martha and John. Emma is also bringing her friend, Harriet."

"Oh. It sounds like the house is going to be full."

"Yeah."

"Did-"

"I got-"

"I'm sorry." William said. "You go ahead."

"I was going to say that I got everyone's e-mails this morning." Elizabeth quickened her pace a little. "I was surprised by all the activity."

He matched her pace. "I know it was completely unexpected. Actually, the party is as well."

She gave him a curious look.

"The Toast party is given at a different vineyard each year. Last year it was held here and this year it was supposed to be held at the Bertram's vineyard, Mansfield Vineyards."

"What happened?"

"There was a family emergency. I don't know the particular details, but their oldest daughter, Isabella dropped in on them unexpectedly with a new husband and her parents are very unhappy about it."

"How did this affect them having the party?"

He shook his head. "People here are very particular about appearances. Isabella showed up just a few days ago and apparently it's caused a lot of distress with her parents. They couldn't handle Isabella's situation and throw a party like this at the same time."

"It was very nice of you to help them out. But, I don't understand why it's so distressing to them. Aren't they happy for their daughter?"

He gave her a small smile. "Her parents were hoping that she would marry someone. . . someone who had a similar background as their daughter."

"Oh." Elizabeth said, "How different is he?"

"As far as I know, he has a degree and is in law school."

"That doesn't sound so bad."

"No, but if your parents had their eyes set on bigger fish. . ."

Elizabeth looked at him and in a minute realized what he meant. "You weren't kidding when you said a lot of mothers are concerned about your marital status."

He let out a small laugh. Then he said, "Actually, I had not planned on attending the Toast Party this year."

"Really? I thought it was the social event of the year."

"To some people."

"Not to you though?"

He shook his head. "It's a formality in this community that I could easily forgo."

She gave him a teasing smile. "I can't believe you'd willing give up going to what some people would give anything just to have a glimpse."

"It's not really all that's it's thought to be."

She looked at him. "Then why are you going through all this trouble if you don't really want to go anyway?"

"Well . . . I was helping out a friend and. . ." He looked back at her. "It was a good excuse to use to come up here."

She could feel her courage melting away due to the warm look he gave her with his raw cowboy appeal. Elizabeth braced herself to do what she had decided to do earlier this morning. "I wanted to thank you."

"Thank me? I don't understand."

They stopped at the partition of trees before the house came into view. "This morning I was talking to my uncle about the party, but he let it slip out that you helped him with my sister's case against Wickham." A range of emotions swept across William's face before he could check them. Her words caught him of guard. "Your uncle wasn't supposed to say I was involved."

"I know. He felt really bad when it slipped out. I understand that you don't want the media involved and you want to protect Georgiana. I can assure you that I won't mention your involvement."

William was speechless.

Elizabeth continued, "I just want to tell you that I'm grateful for your help. If you hadn't, my family and I would still be suffering. We'll be in your debt forever."

William was stunned. This was not the reception he had hoped for. He had planned to apologize to her for his behavior the day before and now she was professing her gratitude for his involvement with Wickham's case. He wanted to show her how sorry he was, but he was sure now that Elizabeth would accept his attentions due to an obligation she felt her family owed him.

Before he could say anything, Elizabeth had disappeared around the wooded partition. He followed her and was met with not only Elizabeth, but also Georgiana, Mary, Jane, and Charlotte. Caroline remained on the porch that wrapped around the entire house.

They were all talking in a lively manner about the evening's event. He couldn't talk to Elizabeth in private anymore and even if he tried, it would be fruitless. The ladies moved towards the house, talking about dresses.

They all disappeared upstairs. He was pretty sure they were going up to Georgiana's room. He realized that the male counterparts of the ladies were left behind, so he decided to stay downstairs. The only ladies left were Louisa, Caroline, and Madeline Gardiner.

He walked towards Madeline and Edward and he was only in conversation with them for a few minutes when the Knightleys arrived. Harriet was with them. William introduced them to the Gardiners and the children took an immediate liking to each other.

Eventually, the ladies came downstairs to join the rest of the guests. Georgiana was thrilled to see Emma and introduced her new friends to her oldest friend. Emma was friendly, but was also mentally sizing up the competition her friend Harriet faced.

When it became apparent the blonde, shy one, the one Emma had most concern for, was already taken, Engaged! Thank goodness! She thought, Emma focused her attention on the others.

There was one who was not strikingly attractive, but was friendly and direct. She had to admit that this one seemed to have good sense. A quality she knew her friend Harriet was lacking. She could see William being attracted to this one. However, her fears were alleviated when this one went to stand by Richard's side and he in turn placed a possessive arm around her shoulder.

Another that was very young, Mary she believed her name was, played with the children. Knowing William would never date anyone younger than his own sister, she tossed aside any concern about her chances with William.

It came down to two women that Emma was concerned about. One was Caroline and the other was a brunette with striking eyes. She knew Caroline was no competition for her dear friend Harriet. Emma knew how William felt about that woman. It was with the other that caused Emma's concern to grow.

She tried to recall what that woman's name was, but couldn't remember if it was Elaine or Elizabeth. Emma watched as she moved from the Gardiners to Charles and the blonde-Jane. Then Elaine or Elizabeth moved on to talk to Richard and the good sense girl. It seemed that this woman had one advantage so far; she knew and got along well with William's friends. But, did Elaine or Elizabeth have any interest in William?

Emma watched and noted that the E woman was careful to avoid prolonged contact with William. She also observed that William's eyes would search her out when he had lost sight of her. Emma had to conceal her astonishment when he detected a hint of jealousy in William's expression when he saw Elizabeth talking to the ranch foreman, Robert Martin. She almost yelped when she saw that her friend Harriet was also part of that conversation.

Even though in different circumstances Elizabeth and Emma would have gotten along very well, Emma could not stand by and let her friend miss an opportunity of a lifetime. She had already imagined her family visiting the Darcys in the summer at Pemberley. Harriet would welcome them as the lady of the house with young Darcys and Knightleys running about the gardens.

In the most polite way Emma excused her friend from Elizabeth and Robert and guided Harriet over to William who was conveniently talking to her husband, Greg Knightley. Although Emma never spoke to her husband about her hopes for her friend, Greg was well aware of Emma's intentions. He had a feeling William knew too, so he was not too worried about his friend. Besides, it was not the first time William was caught in a matchmaking position and Greg was confident that William could handle himself.

What did concern Greg was his wife's unusual tenacity to recommend her friend to William. She was usually more subtle and he realized something must have happened to trigger such fervor in his wife. He looked around and noticed that the only available women in the room were Caroline Bingley and the one playing with the children, Mary. He knew his friend would rather ice-skate on a frozen pond naked than brave a relationship with Caroline. The Mary girl was much too young. So, why was his wife so eager to get her friend talking to William?

Just then he heard a woman laughing. It was not the usual soft, tinkling laughter a person is used to hearing in these circles. It was a rich, infectious laughter. Greg searched for the source and saw that it came from an attractive woman with wavy brown hair and eyes that were full of amusement.

"Who's that?"

"Elizabeth."

"I don't think I've met her."

"I'll introduce you." And with that William and Greg left Emma and Harriet standing by themselves.

William was happy to intrude on Elizabeth and Hurst. Louisa had been talking to Jane and Caroline was rhapsodizing to Georgiana about something or other. He couldn't help feeling a little jealous that Hurst had made Elizabeth laugh like that on more than one occasion.

William made the introductions and upon closer inspection, Greg learned that Elizabeth was not only attractive, but charming. Her smile was genuine and she seemed to have a partiality for Hurst which he could not understand.

When William asked what she found so amusing, she quite openly refused to tell him. Greg was beside himself. Most women would be eager to give up their family secrets to William.

William persisted and said, "Perhaps Hurst will shed some light on the topic."

Hurst cleared his throat. "I can't."

"And why not?"

"Because I promised Elizabeth I wouldn't."

At this comment, Elizabeth wore a triumphant smile on her face.

"You know it's not very nice, some may say even rude, not to include others in a conversation." William looked at Greg. "Wouldn't you agree?"

Greg cleared his throat. "Their reluctance to tell you what they were talking about can only mean two things. One is that they were talking about something of an extremely personal nature or," Greg gave Elizabeth a quick wink, "They were talking about you."

"Me?" William raised an eyebrow. "What could you possibly find so amusing about me?"

"I can assure you, we weren't making fun of you, if that's what you're worried about."

He gave her an expectant look.

Elizabeth continued, "He was pointing out an observation."

Greg looked over William. "I don't see anything out of the ordinary."

"No, I suppose you wouldn't, but I've never been here before and I was telling Hurst that I've never seen William so casually dressed."

William looked down at himself. "Oh."

"But, then Hurst pointed out that I have." Elizabeth shifted in her spot. "He pointed out the time we played football at Charles's house and I had my hands down your pants. If anything, I should've remembered that."

Greg looked at Elizabeth and then at William who had a subtle blush creeping up his neck.

Elizabeth continued, in her best Hurst voice, "Then Hurst said, 'Most women only get to glance at that golden hiney and most women would not forget such an exquisite experience.' "

Greg could not help himself and let out a hearty laugh.

William stifled his own amusement. With a small smile threatening to spread across his lips, he said, "And this is what you found so amusing?"

Elizabeth held his gaze. "Yes."

"But, that's not even the funniest part."

"What was then?"

Hurst ignored the pleading look Elizabeth gave him. He said, "Then Elizabeth said, 'If I had copped a feel on that golden hiney, I wouldn't have forgotten the experience so easily.' "

Hurst and Greg let out hearty laughs that drew the attention of the room. Elizabeth felt herself turning red to the very roots of her hair and William had an amused look on his face.

She was saved from further mortification when Mrs. Reynolds announced that dinner was ready. Dinner was an early casual affair due to the formal party in the late evening. When they were all seated, Elizabeth was more than happy to be seated as far away as possible from William.

When Greg sat down next to his wife, Emma asked, "What were you laughing about?"

"Nothing."

Emma gave him a no nonsense look.

He let out a deep sigh and patted his wife's hand. "Sweetheart, I'm afraid your friend Harriet doesn't stand a chance," he whispered.

Elizabeth stood in front of the dressing mirror in her room. She wore the dress that Georgiana had brought for her and she had reservations about how she looked.

It was a basic black dress, but the color was the only traditional quality about it. Elizabeth had never worn anything by a designer before, but could not deny that she enjoyed it. She smoothed down the skirt that fell and ended just below her knees. The material was soft and sheer to the touch. There was a subtle flounce in the skirt and it was edged with a flirty ruffle. Since it was a halter top, the cut in the back of the dress framed and flattered her lean back and in the front, it accentuated the hollows and valleys of her chest.

When Georgiana told her it was Dolce & Gabbana's halter dress design, Elizabeth immediately declined wearing it. She was afraid that it might get ruined and it was too expensive and too fine to risk wearing it. Georgiana assured her that she trusted Elizabeth to care for it and that it was only one night.

Now, she stood in the middle of the elegant guest bedroom, trying to muster up her courage to go to the party. After the golden hiney incident with Hurst, Elizabeth was able to salvage her dignity at dinner by keeping quiet. There were so many guests and conversations going on at the same time that no one really noticed Elizabeth's uncharacteristic reserve. Save for one person and William thought perhaps her reticence was due to her dinner companions. She sat in between Robert Martin and Louisa Hurst, but even then he knew she was not the type to shy away from conversation.

After dinner, Elizabeth's behavior was much the same. Her attention was occupied primarily by the children. She figured she could not say anything wrong with them and decided that Mary could use the assistance watching over them. She had managed to avoid any more conversation with William.

Mary knocked on Elizabeth's door. "Are you almost ready? Aunt Madeline and Uncle Edward have already left."

Elizabeth opened the door. "Good. I was afraid I was holding them back."

Mary blinked several times at her sister before a smile of approval spread across her lips. "You look fantastic. Georgiana really picked out an awesome dress for you."

"Thanks, Mary." They walked out to the living area. "Are you sure you'll be alright? It's one thing to look after three kids, but five?"

"Mom did it. I'll be fine. I've brought some Disney movies just in case."

"So . . . I guess I should get going." Elizabeth didn't move from her spot.

"Elizabeth, in order to get going, you have to move your feet."

"Right." Still no movement from her feet.

"What's the matter? You look great."

"Thanks, I just . . . I don't want to do anything stupid."

"What are you talking about?"

Elizabeth told Mary about the golden hiney conversation. When she was finished, Mary laughed out loud.

"Mary, it's not funny."

"Oh, yes it is."

"He wasn't supposed to hear that."

"So? I doubt that William was offended."

"It's not just that. Ever since I met him, I've said the wrong thing to him every time and it's all my fault. I always thought he was being arrogant or conceited. . . but, really I was just being stubborn."

Mary squeezed her sister's bare shoulder. "Well, I'm glad you've finally realized it."

Elizabeth's mouth dropped.

"Now, will you go to the party. I'm sure William is wondering where you are."

"He's got lots of guests to attend to."

"True, but you're the one he wants to see most."

"How can you be so sure?"

"Why do you think we're all here?"

Elizabeth shook her head. "Well, if I keep making comments about his hiney to Hurst, I'm sure he'll quickly lose interest."

Mary guided her sister to the front door of the cottage. "Not if you direct your comments personally to William." She shut the door before her sister could say anything more.

There was nothing left for Elizabeth to do except go the big house and attend the party. She walked up the cobbled path towards the house. It was a clear, brisk night. Elizabeth rubbed her arms to warm herself up. She forgot her wrap, but did not go back for it because she had a feeling Mary would not let her back into the guest house.

Chapter 23 ~ Shortbread

Posted on Saturday, 7 February 2004

It is difficult to overcome one's passion, and impossible to satisfy them.
~ Marguerite De La Sabliere "Pensees Chretiennes"

Elizabeth entered the house using the same side entrance from earlier in the day. She managed to slip into the sitting room unnoticed by anyone she knew. Elizabeth was about twenty minutes late, and the party was apparently already in full swing. She was expecting a showcase of the various wines and everyone trying each wine one at a time, and then everyone pausing from the tasting to say something profound about the body and bouquet of the wine. She thought it would be a quiet, subdued affair.

Instead it was an actual party. The elegant sitting room abounded with the merry sounds of a live big band and energetic conversations. People were dressed formally, but there was a relaxed manner in which people carried themselves. People drank wine, but there was no ceremony about it.

Elizabeth mingled through the crowd and it was obvious that the wine was secondary. It was the opportunity to socialize that was foremost to these people.

A small smile pulled at the corner of Elizabeth lips. She was relieved that she would not have to muddle her way through some opinions about wine.

She saw that Jane and Charlotte were each dancing with their respective beau. Her aunt and uncle were in a conversation with Greg Knightly. Georgiana and Craig were talking to Harriet. Caroline and Louisa were talking to Emma. In a corner, by himself, Elizabeth saw Hurst holding a glass of wine which looked unnatural in his hand.

She walked over and stood next to him, but did not say a word.

He let out a deep sigh. "They're only serving wine."

"It is a wine party."

"Hmrph."

"You know, I'm not sure if I should be upset with you."

Hurst gave her a sidelong glance. "What for?"

"I thought the golden hiney comments would be just between you and me."

He chuckled.

"I'd like to maintain some dignity."

This time Hurst stared at Elizabeth. "Since when have you become such a poodle?"

"Poodle?!" Elizabeth lowered her voice. Poodle was their code name for Caroline. "I'm not a poodle. I just. . ."

"Elizabeth, you eat like you actually have an appetite. I've seen you take down a man twice your size, and you can laugh."

She shifted in her spot.

"These people could take lessons from you."

She looked at Hurst and she saw that familiar earnest expression she had come to appreciate. She smiled at him and said, "Why don't we find you something to drink."

They walked toward one of the servers. Hurst said, "They only have wine."

"Well, did you ask for anything else?"

"Anything else?"

She shook her head. When she caught the attention of a server, Elizabeth asked if they could get a beer. The gentleman looked at her as if she had said something in Japanese.

Elizabeth smiled at the server and said, "You see, my friend has a sensitive palette and the wine doesn't agree with it. His palette isn't up to the challenge of these complex wines. "

The server looked at Hurst and he shrugged. The server gave them a good humored smile and then said, "Perhaps if you speak to the wine steward, he can find something else that will be better suited for your friend." The server pointed to a bar that was set up a few feet away from them.

Elizabeth slipped her hand in the crook of Hurst's arm and guided him to the wine steward. They stood there a few seconds and the steward gave them an expectant look.

Elizabeth nudged Hurst and he let out a, "Uh. . ." Elizabeth flashed the steward a nervous smile, "We were wondering if it were possible to get something different to drink."

Concern showed on the steward's face. "Is something wrong with the wine?"

"Oh, no. I'm sure it's fine." She shifted in her spot. "It's just. . . my friend here lacks the. . . sophistication needed to truly appreciate such a fine wine. He was hoping for something that didn't require such a . . . cultivated taste."

There was amusement twinkling in the steward's eyes. "And do you have similar tastes as your friend?"

"I. . . I'm afraid I do."

"Well, this is highly irregular. People attend the Toast because of the wine."

"Yes, of course." Elizabeth said. "But, you wouldn't want to serve it to people who couldn't truly appreciate the finer qualities of these wines."

The steward called over the server Elizabeth had been talking to and whispered something to him. The server then disappeared through the entrance way.

The steward looked at Elizabeth with a quirked eyebrow. "You're implying that I should serve wine exclusively to a select few."

"A select few who would appreciate it."

"Have you ever taken the time to learn to appreciate wine?"

Elizabeth looked at Hurst who continued to maintain his nervous silence. She said to the steward, "Actually, I have." Hurst heard the challenge in her tone and was inwardly thrilled at the idea of Elizabeth setting down the scary steward who would not give him a beer.

The steward cleared his throat. "And what have you learned?"

"I've learned that I don't care for the sharp acidic tones of chardonnays and barely tolerate the robust flavor of merlots and cabernets."

"It sounds like you don't like wine at all. If I may," he poured out a sampling of a rose, "this might be to your liking."

Elizabeth hesitated, but when she saw that the steward was offering it to her with genuine sincerity, she took the glass. She smelled it first and then swirled it in her glass. She tasted it and thought for a moment.

"What do you think? Is it tolerable?" Elizabeth turned to see the source of the voice and saw William standing behind her.

She swallowed and said, "It's good." She looked at the steward. "It was a very good choice."

The steward smiled in appreciation. "I had a feeling you were being modest about your. . . sophisticated tastes."

Just then the server returned with a tray that had two pints of beer.

"What's this?" William asked.

"This," she took a pint and gave one to Hurst, "is a beer."

He chuckled. "Yes, I see. But, this is a wine party."

"Of course it is." She took the other beer and sipped it.

William's brow was wrinkled.

"See, Hurst prefers a beer."

"And you prefer-"

"I don't prefer one more than the other. I'm just drinking a beer, so that my friend doesn't get into trouble."

"I see."

"And don't be upset with the steward. It was all my doing."

"I'm sure you charmed your way."

"Actually, I was quite persuasive."

"Persuasive?" He arched his eyebrow. "You didn't offer the steward the bartender's prize, did you?"

"No, I didn't. But," she then leaned over and kissed the steward on the cheek. "Thank you. I know your boss can be quite intimidating and I appreciate your efforts."

"John has been the wine steward for my family for many years. I always defer to his judgment."

Elizabeth felt like saying something contradictory, but she caught herself. Instead, she turned to John and said, "If there's another wine you think I might like, I'd be very willing to try it."

William's and Hurst's mouth were agape. Hurst was expecting another verbal tennis match and William was expecting Elizabeth to defend her own ability to be a better judge.

John was aware that something was amiss based on his employer's expression. He did not want to cause any trouble for his employer and said, "At the moment, I think the rose is the best choice."

"Thank you."

"Where'd you get the beer?" Richard asked. He saw Elizabeth, Hurst, and William talking and was curious.

Hurst said, "Elizabeth got it for me."

"But, this is a wine party."

Elizabeth shook her head. "I know. You can have mine." She hesitated and looked at William. "If that's alright."

"Uh. . . of course."

Richard took the beer and gave her a bemused expression.

Elizabeth looked around the room. "I haven't said hello to anyone else yet." And with that she left the gentlemen and walked towards Georgiana and Craig who were still talking to Harriet.

Richard said, "Did she just ask you permission to give me this beer?"

"Yeah."

"What was that about?" Richard looked at Hurst.

He said, "What's the big deal?"

"She's never asked me permission for anything."

"Why would she ask you permission for anything?"

"I'm her boss."

Hurst chuckled.

Richard turned to William. "What did you do to Elizabeth?"

He wrinkled his brow. "I didn't do anything."

Richard studied his cousin for a moment before he returned his attention to Elizabeth who was talking to Georgiana. Jane and Charlotte had joined Elizabeth and Georgiana. "Isn't it interesting how things turn out?"

William looked at Richard. "What are you talking about?"

"Well, if someone had told me a year ago that I'd find 'the one', I wouldn't have believed them."

"Yeah."

"What are the chances?"

William stood with his hands in his pockets, watching Elizabeth talk with his sister. It was heartwarming to see them get along so well. She fit in so well on the ranch too. The problem was that she did not know it yet.

"So, are you just going to stand there?" Richard asked William.

"Hmm?"

"Are you just going to stand there and let Tom Bertram woo Elizabeth?"

"What?" In his distraction about Elizabeth staying on the ranch, William had not noticed that Tom Bertram had sneaked his way to Elizabeth's side. "What is he doing here?"

"I guess his sister's situation wasn't enough to keep him home."

"Apparently not." They watched Tom take Elizabeth to the dance floor.

"That's odd." Hurst said.

"What?" Richard asked.

"I didn't think he had a chance."

Elizabeth found it difficult to turn down Tom Bertram. He was persistent in a polite way. It also did not help that his forest green eyes held an intensity that any sane woman could not refuse. They danced to "Ain't Misbehavin' " sung by a duo with the big band.

They danced a few seconds in silence. Uncomfortable with Tom's sparkling green eyes taking her in, Elizabeth said, "I'm sorry to hear about your sister."

"My sister?" His brow wrinkled at first. "Oh, right." Then he looked at her with a curious expression. "How did you know about my sister?"

"William told me."

"William." His interest intensified. "Is he the one you're here with tonight?"

"He invited my uncle, aunt, and me."

"So, you're a friend of the family?"

"Actually, no. I work for DFD."

"Oh. How do you like it?"

"I like it a lot. Richard's great to work with."

"Richard?"

"Yes. He's William's cousin."

He looked at her for a minute. "So, you work with Richard Fitzwilliam." He hesitated before he said, "You're an editor."

"No, I'm Richard's assistant."

"Assistant?" He was struck dumb. Why would William Darcy invite an assistant and her relatives to the Toast party? Unless. . . He cleared his throat. "You're not telling me everything."

Elizabeth felt his grip tighten around her waist. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"You must be important to William in order for him to invite you and your relatives to the party tonight."

"He's very generous."

"True, but as someone who has known the Darcys for years, they're very exclusive about who they invite into their private life."

"I suppose you're right." Elizabeth did not know what else to say. She had to admit that it sounded like something clandestine existed between her and William.

Tom detected uneasiness from Elizabeth's thoughtful expression. "I'm sorry. I don't mean to pry. Sometimes we can be presumptuous."

"We?"

"Rich folk. We love to know each other's business and delight in taking every opportunity to enjoy ourselves."

Elizabeth smiled and then in a playful voice said, "Well, I hope you don't see me as an opportunity."

"No, of course not." He twirled her on the dance floor. "Perhaps a form of amusement."

"That I may be able to provide." Elizabeth told him about the golden hiney misfortune.

Tom's head tilted back as he laughed.

"I don't know if it is that amusing."

When he recovered, Tom said, "I think many women have had that thought, but they've managed to keep it to themselves."

"I'm aware of that, but if you knew me well enough, you'd know I have a problem keeping certain thoughts to myself."

"You seem to be doing fine at the moment."

"Yes, because I'm making an extra effort not to humiliate myself any further."

"We've known each other for a full ten minutes. Surely you don't feel like you have to maintain any formalities, do you?"

"Of course I do. If I don't, and I make a mistake, you'll always remember me as Elizabeth that assistant with verbal diarrhea."

He let out another hearty laugh and mumbled, "Verbal diarrhea."

The song came to an end. Elizabeth and Tom clapped for the marvelous vocals and music of the band. Tom was about to ask for the next dance, but William had stepped in.

"May I have the next dance?"

Tom gave William Elizabeth's hand. Then he looked at Elizabeth, "It was an exquisite pleasure." He gave William a knowing look and then Tom bent down and whispered, "If William doesn't take you for his own soon, I'll be waiting." He winked at her and walked off the dance floor.

Elizabeth felt her cheeks burning and did not really hear that the singer was now crooning "The Very Thought of You".

The mere idea of you.
The longing here for you.
You'll never know
how slow the moments go
til I'm near to you.

William claimed possession of Elizabeth into his arms. He felt many things, but most apparent was the slow burning annoyance that Elizabeth was highly affected by what Tom had whispered into her ear. "It seems you and Tom got along very well."

"He's very nice." Since she was still trying to collect herself, she didn't notice the edge in William's voice.

"It's obvious you think so."

This time Elizabeth looked at him. She saw that his expression was tight. She raised an eyebrow and said, "He's also very handsome." She felt his hand on the small of her back pull her closer to him.

He said, "That's what most ladies think. I didn't think you would get caught up with his. . . charm."

I see your face in every flower
your eyes in stars above.
It's just the thought of you,
The very thought of you,
My love.

"What gave you that idea?"

"You two were practically laughing all over each other."

"He found me amusing."

"I'm sure that's not all."

"And so what if that's not all?"

"So, you're attracted to him?"

"What woman wouldn't be?"

"So, you like him?"

"It's hard not to."

The very thought of you,
And I forget to do,
The little ordinary things
That everyone ought to do.
I'm living in a kind of day dream.

They were quiet for a few minutes. Elizabeth had resolved not to look at him. William had resolved to do the same and not look at her, but he could not help himself.

I'm happy as a king.
And foolish though it may seem
to me.
That's everything.

He had not realized that he had pulled Elizabeth's body against his. Georgiana had been in secret meetings all morning with Charlotte and Elizabeth's sisters before they came to the ranch. He figured they were discussing women's issues, but Georgiana, in a nonchalant manner, had stated they were evaluating the dress she was bringing up for Elizabeth to wear for the Toast Party. This had certainly peaked his curiosity, but Georgiana figuratively kept the dress under lock and key. She made it clear that he would get to see the dress on Elizabeth that evening. He did not see what the big deal could be. Designer labels were not his forte.

William now had his hands on the smooth chiffon material that hugged her body and tried to keep his eyes averted from the contours of her neck and chest that the halter top accentuated. His fingers were only centimeters away from the bare skin of her shoulders and back. It took every ounce of his self control not to explore every inch of her.

William did not like the fact that only a few minutes ago, Tom's hands were just there.

The more she tried to defend Tom, the more he needed to be near her. He hated to see Elizabeth dancing with Tom. He hated it even more because it seemed she enjoyed dancing with him. At first he thought Elizabeth could not be really enjoying herself because he knew that she really liked him. Then he realized that they never actually talked about being exclusive with each other.

The mere idea of you.
The longing here for you.
You'll never know
how slow the moments go
til I'm near to you.*

"Have I told you how beautiful you look tonight?" She looked up at him. Her eyes blazing with displeasure.

"No."

"Georgiana mentioned she picked out the dress."

"She did."

He cleared his throat. "So, what did Tom say to you?"

The song ended and Elizabeth withdrew from his embrace. "He told me he'd be waiting if no one else claimed me."

"I see."

She waited for something, anything to give her reason that he did not like the idea. He stood silent with an impassable expression on his face. Elizabeth felt as if she were punched in the stomach. She turned to walk away.

He took hold of her arm. "Where are you going?"

"It doesn't matter." She withdrew her arm and left the room.

William was about to go after her, when Emma caught his attention and asked if he could dance with Harriet. He declined and continued on his quest, but then Caroline stopped him and told him that the wine steward seemed to have a problem.

He looked for John and when he saw that he was not where he was supposed to be, William searched the room with his eyes. John would never leave his post unless it were important. Caught between duty and desire, duty won out. He left the room in search of John.

Elizabeth stormed down the cobbled path toward the guest house. She could not stand to be in the same room as William. He was so kind and attentive to her earlier, and then just a few minutes ago he practically accused her of throwing herself at another man. How could he change so quickly?

When she walked into the guest house, the children were put to bed and Mary was reading a book on the couch.

Mary said, "You're back early."

Elizabeth walked to her room. "Not now." And shut the door.

Mary let out a deep sigh. She walked to her sister's room, but stopped at the door. She heard Elizabeth trying to stifle her sobbing. Mary had never heard her older sister cry before.

She tapped the door. "Elizabeth, is there anything I can do?"

"No." Mary heard her moving around inside. "Just. . . I don't want to see anyone right now."

"But-"

"Please, Mary. I'm tired and I don't want to talk to anyone."

Mary stood at the door, tempted just to walk in. Instead, Mary said, "Alright. I'll be here if you need anything."

"Thank you."

Mary returned to the armchair where her book waited for her. She could not concentrate on reading with her sister so obviously distressed. She only hoped that some answers would come soon.

William reached the kitchen and searched for John. Instead he found Mrs. Reynolds giving directions to some servers. When she was finished, she was surprised to see William waiting for her.

"Mr. Darcy, is everything alright?"

"I was told that John may have a problem. I didn't see him out there, so I thought maybe something was wrong."

"No, everything is fine. He went to get a few bottles from the reserve."

"Is that all? He could've sent someone else to do that."

"You know he doesn't trust just anyone to go into the reserves. I would've gone myself, but I had to watch things here."

"Of course." He thought for a moment. "Are you sure everything is alright?"

"Yes."

He swore to himself.

"What's the matter?"

"I think I may have been deceived."

Mrs. Reynolds brow wrinkled with concern. "I hope the damage isn't irreparable."

"I hope not either." He walked to the door.

"Is there anything I can do to help?"

William hesitated. "Maybe. I have to check something first."

She nodded and watched him walk out the kitchen.

Elizabeth had changed out of her evening dress and into her night gown. She lay on her bed, staring up at the ceiling. There were intricate patterns of fruit and leaves and some pictures engraved in the plaster. She tried to concentrate on the soft curves of the fruit to clear her mind. It had been a very long day complete with one disaster after another. At this point she just wanted sleep to take over so that she could not torment herself any longer.

When she returned to the cottage, she was angry. She had thought she had been doing well all day and most of the evening and she felt all her efforts were for nothing. In the end, Elizabeth had got in an argument with William anyway.

Of all the things they argued about, they argued about Tom Bertram. Elizabeth could not believe that William thought she might be interested in that man. She thought it was obvious she was interested in William. How could he be so quick to doubt her feelings?

Everything was still so new for them. It seemed like things were just starting to turn around and they would be able to start again. But, when she had gone to his office to thank him for suggesting to Anne that she work on the column for Anne's magazine, he was ready to argue with her instead.

Since then she realized that in all her earlier dealings with William, she had been looking for a reason to argue with him. She had misunderstood him, causing her to be contradictory to anything he said. Elizabeth did not think she did it on purpose, but she did it with the idea that William disliked her.

But, now she knew she was wrong in believing that. Isn't that why he returned from New York a month early? To be with her? He never admitted it, but Elizabeth felt it to be true.

Then why was he so ready to believe that she was interested in another man? Elizabeth detected anger in his tone and in his expression. With each question he asked, she became indignant, defiant even. She was upset that he had doubted her feelings and to protect herself she became defensive. She said things that she knew would get to him. Yet, she could not help it even though she had resolved not to say the wrong things.

This time had she misunderstood William? Did she want to fight with him? She definitely did not want to fight with him. She had been trying to avoid it all day. She had wanted to show him that she had changed. That she was not going to find reasons to argue with him.

Then she had misunderstood him. How could she mistake the anger in the way he looked and talked to her? He was displeased that she had danced and talked with Tom Bertram. He was also upset that she had gotten along with Tom so well. She was sure she did not misunderstand him. He was angry with her. Yet, she did not see why. She came back to the point that she had feelings for William and no one else. How could he doubt her?

She realized that they never really talked about making a commitment to each other. They never said that they were not going to date other people. Although they never talked about it, Elizabeth had understood that they each had an interest only in the other person.

Her mind kept going in circles. She always came back to the point that she only wanted William. There was no doubt and she could not deny it.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sounds of voices coming from the living room. Elizabeth recognized one to be Mary and after a moment she knew the other voices belonged to Jane and Charlotte. She groaned to herself and took her pillows and tossed them to the foot of the bed. She lay on one pillow and then placed the other over her ear. She did not want to hear them talk about her love life.

Mary was surprised to see Jane and Charlotte. She had been expecting her aunt and uncle. Jane and Charlotte had asked if Elizabeth was in her room and Mary said she was.

"Have you talked to her?" Jane asked.

"No, she didn't want to talk at all."

"It sounds like she was upset." Charlotte said.

"She locked herself inside. I think she might have been crying."

Jane said, "Maybe I should go try and talk to her."

Mary shook her head. "I think locking her door is a sure sign that she doesn't want to see anyone."

They were quiet for a few minutes, when Charlotte said, "At least we know she's alright and that she's here."

"What happened? Why did she leave?" Mary asked.

Jane said, "We're not really sure. One minute she's dancing with Tom Bertram and then with William."

"Then she was gone." Charlotte added.

"What did William say?"

Jane sighed. "He's missing too."

"It doesn't sound good."

"No, it doesn't." Jane said, "We should get back to the party. I think there are enough people missing."

"What should I tell Aunt Madeline and Uncle Edward?"

Jane thought for a minute. "Well. . . when I see them at the party and they ask about Elizabeth, I'll tell them she was so tired that she turned in early."

"Alright. I'll just say that Elizabeth went straight to bed."

Charlotte followed Jane out of the cottage and Mary shut the door behind them. She returned to the armchair and tried to read her book.

Elizabeth heard a noise which was the front door shutting and lifted the pillow off her head. She listened for a few seconds and figured Jane and Charlotte returned to the party because it was quiet again. She was extremely relieved that they did not try to come in and talk to her. Elizabeth did not want them to be missing from the party because they were trying to console her. Their absence from the party would make Richard and Charles curious and then they would come searching for Jane and Charlotte. Then her aunt and uncle would wonder why all these people were in the cottage.

Yes, she was glad to be left alone.

She figured in the morning, her early departure wouldn't be so fresh in everyone's mind and she would tell them that she was tired and went to bed early. It was a plausible excuse and she did not think it would raise any suspicions. Her only worry now was how to act and what she would say to William.

Elizabeth had been deciding that she would be polite, but careful towards William when there was a knock on one of the French doors that led out to a patio. She underestimated her sister's and her friend's persistence.

She opened the door. "Look, I said I didn't want to talk-"

It was William. "I just came to see if you were alright."

"I thought you were. . ."

"Here." He held out a plate of cookies.

She took them and saw that they were short bread. "You remembered."

"I would've brought you lollipops too, but it was short notice and this is all Mrs. Reynolds had."

She was confused. He was being. . . and a moment ago he was so. . . She figured it out.

He turned to walk back to the house, when he heard Elizabeth say, "Don't you want to make sure that I'm alone?"

He winced at the remark. It was part of the reason why he wanted to see her. He turned around and saw that the door way was empty. He braced himself and walked through.

It took his eyes a few seconds to adjust to the darkness and the moonlight. When they did, he saw that the bed was empty and Elizabeth stood next to it with the plate of cookies he had given her.

"Are you satisfied?"

He looked at her and could see in the moonlight a trace of that defiant expression that he had grown fond of. He also noticed that she was no longer wearing that alluring evening dress, but a simple night gown. It exposed the same areas that the evening dress had, but his imagination teased him with the idea that if she were to stand in the moonlight, he would be able to see what the night gown concealed.

"Actually, no I'm not." He shut the door.

"The Very Thought of You" words and music by Ray Noble. The version I have is sung by Nat King Cole. Harry Connick Jr. has a version of this song on his recent album "Only You".

Chapter 24 ~ Pumpkin

Posted on Monday, 8 March 2004

"Let me take you a button-hole lower.
~ William Shakespeare "Love's Labour Lost"

Elizabeth could not see him, but she knew he was approaching her. She steadied her breath when she felt the plate of cookies being taken from her hands.

"You can have these later."

Elizabeth could smell his woody cologne and felt his fingers brush her arm. His other hand found its way on her waist. Before she could say anything, his mouth had found hers. Her back straightened at the bold and possessive way he kissed her.

The hand on her waist had slipped around to the small of her back and enclosed her. The other hand trailed up her arm, her shoulder, and then took a hold of the nape of her neck.

When he deepened his kiss, a robust, earthy taste permeated her mouth. It was the taste of the wine from his vineyard. He kissed her thoroughly, branding her with his essence.

Elizabeth responded by bracing herself with her hands on his chest. She had attributed his fine physique to regular exercise, but she now realized that it was most likely due to years of living and working on the ranch.

She felt his hand that was behind her neck slide down onto her shoulder. His grip was firm at first and then it relaxed. His fingertips slid under the strap of her nightgown causing it to fall off her shoulder. William withdrew his lips from hers, lingering there before he breathed a kiss on the top of her shoulder. Elizabeth felt her knees shake.

He kissed her shoulder and her neck as if he wanted to devour her. He explored the other shoulder with a renewed appetite. When he slid the other strap out of the way, an alarm went off in Elizabeth's head. It was difficult keeping her mind intact, but when she felt William's hands on her back, attempting to slip her nightgown off, she pushed herself away.

"What the hell do you think you're doing?" One hand was holding up her night gown.

"What?" Shock was evident in his voice.

"If you think you could make me forget what you said earlier by coming in here and seducing me-"

"Seducing you?!"

"One minute you're ready to believe that I want to be with another man, the next you're trying to-"

"I wasn't trying to seduce you. I came here to see if you were alright."

"I can take care of myself." She pulled up the straps of her nightgown and crossed her arms.

"Really? The same way you were letting Tom take care of you?"

"Tom 'take care of me'? We were having a conversation. That's all."

"It must have been some conversation. You had him laughing his head off."

"Laughing doesn't constitute an illicit affair." He didn't say anything, but she could see he was standing in front of her with his hands on his hips. She continued, "I'm not going to apologize because I was just talking to another man."

William sighed and then he sat at the edge of the bed. He ran his fingers through his hair.

Elizabeth said, "I'm also not going to apologize for making him laugh. It couldn't be helped."

"Of course not." His voice was low.

Elizabeth took a chance. She sat next to him on the bed and hugged her knees to her chest. "If you were upset with me, why did you try . . . why did you do that?"

He rested his elbows on his knees. "I was hoping . . . I hoped that you didn't want to be with Tom. I just wanted to be sure-"

Elizabeth hugged herself tighter. "I don't want to be with Tom." She hesitated before she said, "I don't . . . Please don't do that again."

"I'm sorry."

She reached out for his hand and squeezed it. It was not that Elizabeth did not enjoy what had just happened. She just felt that he wanted her for the wrong reasons.

After a moment, he asked, "Why were you avoiding me all evening?" He spoke with a pained voice.

"I wasn't avoiding you. I was. . .OK. I was avoiding you."

He squeezed her hand. "Why? Was it because of what I said in my office?"

She thought for a moment. "A little."

"I have been thinking about it and I realize that it sounded like I was trying to change you. I just wanted something better for you."

"Better?"

"I mean. . ." He held his head in his hands. "Not that I think there's anything wrong now. I just. . . you deserve so much, and if I can help in anyway. . ."

She looked at him, seeing the struggle on his face. Elizabeth reached for his arm. "I understand what you mean."

"You do?" He studied her face. "I don't care if you want to be an assistant or a writer. I just want you to be happy."

She smiled.

He felt a weight had come off his shoulders. "So, you're not mad at me?"

"No."

"Then why were you avoiding me?"

"I was trying to. . . be careful."

"Be careful about what?"

"Not to say the wrong things."

"What are you talking about?"

"I realize that in the past I've picked arguments with you because I had misunderstood you in some way. I was looking for a reason to fight."

"That's not true."

"It is. I mean I didn't do it on purpose. I just . . . I didn't like you at first and I thought you felt the same way and . . . so. . ."

"I see."

"And then I thought if I didn't talk to you as much then I wouldn't say the wrong things and. . ."

"But, I like talking with you."

"Look what happened tonight. Even though I tried to be on my best behavior, we still got in an argument."

"I'd rather you argue with me than have you agree with me all the time."

"What?"

"Why do you think I like talking with you so much? You're honest and you don't put up with any nonsense." He turned to face her. "And you always make me put things into perspective." He took her other hand. "You said your biggest mistake was misunderstanding me. Mine is assuming too much. But, as long as we can talk or even argue about it, I wouldn't have it any other way."

Elizabeth thought for a minute. "So, you don't mind arguing?"

"No." He looked down at their hands entwined together. "I have to admit. . . I like it when you argue with me."

"What are you talking about?"

He shrugged. "I've never had a woman argue with me before who was not related to me or was not Mrs. Reynolds."

"Are you serious?"

"I can't remember the last time it happened."

She shook her head. "You've had it too easy."

"I know."

"And don't think I'll be that way either."

"I hope you won't."

"Then. . . what happened tonight? I tried to figure out why you were so angry with me. I know I probably said some things that I shouldn't have. . . Did I misunderstand you again?"

"No, you didn't. I. . . I guess you could say I was jealous."

She blinked several times. "Jealous? Of what?"

"That Tom was enjoying your company so much. You also seemed to enjoy his too."

"I was just being friendly. I didn't mean to. . ."

"I know. Listen, I'll make a deal with you," He turned to face her, "I won't get jealous like that again, if. . ."

She rested her head on his shoulder. "I'm only interested in you."

"Me too." He kissed the top of her head.

She sighed. After a moment, she said, "Where'd you put the cookies?"

He chuckled. "I put them on the dressing table."

She stood up to get them. Then she returned to her place next to him on the bed. "How did you know where to put them in the dark?"

"This used to be my mother's room."

She was quiet for several seconds. "Oh. . ."

"I know this room so well because my mother liked to stay here at the cottage when my father was away on business, which was often."

"But. . . that sounds. . . strange."

"It was nothing like that." He shook his head. "I think I spent more time at the cottage than at the big house when I was a kid. My mom thought the house was so empty without my dad there."

"Oh. And this was her room?"

"Yes."

"I was admiring the artwork on the ceiling earlier. It's very intricate."

He looked up. The soft illumination of the moonlight highlighted the artwork. "Oh that."

"Why did you say it like that?"

"Like what?"

"You sounded annoyed."

"I wouldn't say annoyed. It's just. . . There's a story behind it."

"Oh, a story?" She put the plate on the floor. Then Elizabeth adjusted herself so that she rested her head on a pillow that was at the foot of the bed. She now had a more central point of view of the ceiling. "I like stories."

He gripped the edge of the bed on both sides of him. "It's not exactly a story that is shared with many people."

She looked up at him and could not make out the expression on his face. "Well, if you don't want-"

There were noises coming from the living room. Elizabeth heard Mary talking to her aunt and uncle.

She whispered, "They're back."

William did not say anything.

Elizabeth could not distinguish any words being said, but the conversation was lengthy. Neither she nor William made a sound. No doubt her aunt and uncle were asking about her. She then heard Mary talking. When she was finished, it was quiet for several minutes.

Then she heard her aunt say, "Well, if you say she's all right, then we'll just call it a night too."

Her uncle said, "We'll see Elizabeth in the morning. I'm sure it was quite an eventful day for her." She heard their footsteps approach. "Good night, Mary. Are you sure you don't want me to walk you back to the house?"

"No, I'll be fine. I'm sure the grounds are safe."

She heard a door shut and then Mary moved around the living room for a moment. Then Elizabeth heard another door shut and Mary's footsteps echoed on the cobbled path.

"You should probably get back to the party."

"You're probably right." He did not move from his spot.

"It's possible that your other guests are leaving too. Don't you think they'll wonder where you could be?"

"They might, but I'm sure Georgiana can handle it."

She looked up at him. "You can't stay here and leave Georgiana alone."

"Craig is with her."

"But. . . aren't you worried about what people might say?"

"No. Not really."

"But, Tom said that you all like to be in each other's business."

"Did he?"

"Yes." She slumped down deeper onto her pillow.

"There is some truth in what he says. Actually, he's quite accurate." He took his hands off the bed and laid them on his lap. "But, for the first time, I don't care what people would say."

"Then, if you're not going to go back," she turned to face him, "you have to tell me your story."

He let out a low laugh. "So, my choices are to go back to the house and say goodbye to people who I could care less about or else stay here with you and tell you my family secrets."

"I know it's a tough choice."

He shook his head and started to take of his jacket. "Move over." He took off his shoes.

"What are you doing?"

"It's easier to look at the mosaic lying down." He rested his head on the pillow next to Elizabeth. They lay side by side, their heads at the foot at the bed, looking up at the ceiling.

"So, this is a mosaic?

"Sort of." He pointed at the outline of it. "You see the fruit that's inlaid around the border? Those are the fruits that we grow on the ranch."

Elizabeth saw that there were apples, oranges, and strawberries nestled in the leaf border. "What are the other fruits in there?"

"Those are figs and pears. There's also lemons and avocados."

"You grow all of those here?"

"Yes, but we don't have as many trees as we used to. My mom expanded on vegetables and herbs. They're not up there because this was made before the expansion."

Elizabeth looked at the center of the mosaic. "The center reminds me of a family crest."

"You could say it is, but one that we'd never show in public."

"Why not?"

He cleared his throat. "It's private."

"Private?" She looked at him and then at the ceiling. "It's too beautiful to hide."

He crossed his arms. "It is beautiful."

"So, what's the story behind this mosaic?"

It took him a minute to start. "Well, because we stayed here at the cottage so often, my mother had this commissioned as sort of a reminder or a keepsake of her family."

"A keepsake?"

"She thought it was more meaningful than hanging a family portrait."

She waited for him to continue.

He pointed to the bottom right corner of the mosaic. "See that? That's my mom."

"The grapes and the flowers?"

"The grapes represent her love for the vineyard and the ranch. The flowers are actually roses."

"Your mother liked white roses."

"Right." He pointed to the left of his mother's picture. "That's my dad."

Elizabeth saw a tree. "That's a very large tree."

"It's actually an oak tree. It's an oak tree that's on the grounds."

"Why did your mother choose that for your father?"

"It was their favorite place to be together." He shifted in his spot.

"What?"

"Well, my mom . . . she said that I was conceived under that tree."

Elizabeth smiled. She thought his nervousness at revealing such personal information was charming.

"I. . ." He absently drew circles on her arm with his fingertips, "I don't share that story with many people."

"Embarrassed?"

"No, not at all. It's just. . . personal."

Elizabeth looked at him. In the moonlight, she could see him studying her face. "Thank you for sharing this with me." She looked away, trying not to get caught up in his gaze. "What are the other pictures for?" She saw a swan with a flower in its beak and a horse with its head bent down over a pumpkin.

He pointed to the top left corner with the swan. "That's Georgiana. My mother thought that she was graceful and delicate, so she picked a swan for my sister."

"Why does it have a flower in its beak?"

"Uh. . . it's actually a sweet pea."

"I know sweet peas. They're delicate looking and have a sweet smell."

"Yeah."

She waited for him to continue, but he did not. "Why do I get the feeling you're holding back?"

"Well. . . sweet pea. . . it was my mom's nickname for Georgiana."

She smiled. "That's really nice." Elizabeth looked at the last picture and pointed. "That must be you."

"Yeah."

"Why did your mom choose a horse and a pumpkin?"

"She chose a horse because I've always been very fond of horses. When I was a child, I'd spend every chance I'd get in the stables."

"I didn't know you liked horses so much."

"My mother thinks it must have come from James Darcy."

"He was the one who bred horses."

"Yes." He smiled at her. "His favorite was the Andalusian from Spain."

"I've never heard of that before."

"It's a breed of horse that was exclusively bred for Spanish royalty. James received one as a gift from a neighboring ranch. It was actually from the Bertrams. They have some land in Madeira."

"So, you breed them too?"

"No, not as seriously as James did. I'm content with the ones we have."

"How many do you have?"

"Twelve."

"Twelve? What do you do with twelve horses?"

"I ride them, but they mostly participate in shows."

"Kind of like the Westminster dog show."

He chuckled. "Kind of, but for horses."

After a moment, Elizabeth asked, "What about the pumpkin?"

"Oh. . ."

"Wait. . . if this picture is anything like Georgiana's. . . then. . ."

He didn't say a word.

"Did. . . was your nickname. . . "

"Yes."

"Really? Your mom used to call you Pumpkin?"

He cleared his throat. "Her Little Pumpkin."

This time Elizabeth let her mirth spill out. "That is just too precious."

William lifted himself up and turned on his side to face her. "You have to promise not to tell anyone."

"Why? What's the big deal?"

"No one knows the story."

"No one?"

"No one."

"Not even Richard?"

"Especially not Richard."

"Why not?"

"Because he would never let us live it down. He'd always call us Sweet Pea and Pumpkin."

"Little Pumpkin." Elizabeth could definitely see Richard torturing his cousins that way. "I guess I could see why you and Georgiana would want to keep that private."

"And we've managed to up until this point."

She got caught in his gaze. "Really?"

He nodded. "Actually, Mrs. Reynolds knows, but that's because she's allowed."

Elizabeth laughed. After a moment, she said, "I don't know if I should be thrilled or worried that I've been told these family secrets."

"Why should you be worried?"

"Because I don't know if I can carry the responsibility."

"I wouldn't have told you if I didn't think you could."

"I don't know what to say." She said.

"About what?"

"You seem to trust me implicitly, but I don't know if I deserve it."

"Why not?"

"Because. . . I. . ."

"Elizabeth?"

"Yes?"

"Actually, I've never told these stories to anyone."

"You haven't?" The weight of how serious his confession sunk in.

"No, so if Richard ever calls me Little Pumpkin, I'll know who to exact my revenge on."

She blinked several times, startled by his threat. Then she heard a small laugh from William. "I'd never tell Richard."

"I know."

"But, I'm not above using it myself."

"You would not."

"Careful. Don't provoke me."

He laughed.

She smiled up at him. "Is there anything else I should know about?"

He lifted one shoulder up and then down. "Like what?"

"Like do you keep a mistress prisoner in the basement of the house?"

"No, of course not." He played with a strand of her hair. "I keep her in the country house we have in England."

She gasped. "You have a country house in England?"

Mary had settled into bed, dozing off to the sounds of nighttime at the ranch. Eight hours ago she had no idea that she would end her day sleeping in one of the most beautiful houses owned by one of the wealthiest families in California. Heck, she was sure they were the wealthiest in America.

She had worried about Elizabeth's early departure from the party. Everyone hoped that tonight would be special for William and Elizabeth. Dressing up in a designer dress and getting the opportunity to rub elbows with society's elite seemed like a fairy tale evening. Mary and her sisters were excited for Elizabeth, but Mary's hopes were deflated when Elizabeth came home early.

Mary had been dozing off in the armchair when she heard voices coming from Elizabeth's room. She listened to make sure the voices were actually coming from Elizabeth's room, not from the children's. The Knightley children were sharing a room with her young cousins and she thought perhaps they had awoke.

When she heard a man's voice, Mary decided the voices were definitely coming from Elizabeth's room. Perhaps things were not so bad for her sister. It was hard to make out what was being said, but judging from the tone at first, there was a heated discussion going on.

When things became quiet, she thought perhaps everything was fine. Their aunt and uncle returned from the party half an hour later. Mary had given them every reassurance that Elizabeth was fine. She had hoped they would not check in on her. When they didn't and instead went to bed, Mary collected her things and left. She decided she had enough meddling for one day.

Sleep was beginning to overtake Mary when a light knock came from the door. Mary laid still and when she heard it again, she went to the door to open it.

It was Georgiana. "Mary, do you know what happened with Elizabeth?"

"She left the party early."

"I know, but do you know why?"

"No. She refused to talk about it."

"I hope she's alright."

"I'm sure she is."

There was another knock on the door. Mary opened it and it was Charlotte.

She said, "Oh, I didn't realize Georgiana was here too."

"I came to ask Mary if Elizabeth was alright."

"I wanted to know if Mary had a chance to talk to her."

"I didn't get a chance to talk to her. She stayed in her room for the rest of the night."

"You didn't try to talk to her?" Georgiana asked.

"She had locked her door. I'm pretty sure that's a sign that she was not in the mood to socialize."

There was another knock at the door and this time Mary said, "Come in."

Jane slipped into the room. "Oh. What are you all doing up?"

Mary answered, "They wanted to know if I had any reconnaissance info about Elizabeth."

"And. . ."

Mary shrugged.

Georgiana said, "William was gone the rest of the night. I think something may have happened between them."

"Richard said that William didn't like that Tom was dancing with Elizabeth." Charlotte said.

Georgiana bit her lip. "Well, I only encouraged him to ask her to dance because I wanted to light a fire under William to get him to make a move."

"I think it got a lot of people moving." Jane said, "Charles said that Caroline was livid when William asked Elizabeth to dance right away and Louisa said that Emma was closely watching William when he was dancing with Elizabeth."

Georgiana groaned. "Mrs. Reynolds said that William had been looking for John on the pretext that something was wrong."

"I did see Caroline talking to William. She was the last one to talk to him before Emma. I think Emma was trying to get him to dance with Harriet next." Jane said.

"Richard said that William looked like he wanted to punch Tom Bertram." Charlotte said, "I don't understand why William didn't ask Elizabeth to dance in the first place."

"I don't either, but my brother can be so dense sometimes."

"I think we should just leave them alone."

They all looked at Mary with stunned expressions.

"I don't think things are as bad as they seem. And I think Elizabeth and William will be able to figure things out."

"That talk they had in William's office threw them off." Charlotte said, "It's a set back."

Georgiana said, "Hosting this party was supposed to be a way to get them moving forward again."

"Obviously it didn't."

"Maybe Mary's right." Jane said, "We should probably stop trying to help them."

"But, Emma is trying to pair my brother off with her friend and Caroline is trying to work her way in as always."

Charlotte said, "Maybe we can help in other ways."

"What other way?"

"Wasn't Harriet talking to another young man tonight?"

"Yeah, he looked about the same age as her and he had brown hair. He was at dinner too."

Georgiana thought for a moment. "Robert Martin! You think Harriet's interested in the foreman?"

"It's a possibility." Charlotte said.

"What about Caroline?"

All of them were quiet for a few minutes at Georgiana's question.

Jane replied, "Well, if William's been able to fend her off for this long, I'm sure he can continue doing so for the rest of the weekend."

"But, how can we keep her from meddling with Elizabeth and William?"

Mary said, "I really don't think it's necessary to worry about all this."

They looked at her sitting at the edge of her bed.

She concluded, "William seems. . . really interested in Elizabeth. I don't think Caroline can change that."

Georgiana said, "True, but. . . I think she's desperate enough to try to get in the way of William being with anyone besides her."

"It doesn't matter. They're only interested in each other. I don't think anything can get in their way."

Charlotte raised an eyebrow at Mary. "You know something."

"What? What are you talking about?"

Georgiana sat on the bed next to Mary. "You know something or else you wouldn't be so confident in William and Elizabeth finding their own way."

"I don't know anything."

"I know you well enough to know when you're hiding something." Mary looked at Jane with an annoyed expression. Why did she have to have the advantage of being the oldest sister?

"Look, I didn't want to say anything because I wasn't sure, but. . . before I left the cottage, I heard Elizabeth talking in her room. . . with a man."

Jane and Charlotte rushed to Mary's side. Georgiana said, "You did? What were they saying? Who was it?"

"I didn't hear what they were saying and I don't know who it was. But, they were definitely talking."

Georgiana said, "You don't think she was talking to Tom, do you?"

"I don't know who Tom is."

Georgiana said, "Well, there's only one way to find out." She got up and opened the door. "I'll be right back."

When she shut the door, Jane said, "Where do you think she's going?"

Charlotte said, "I don't know, but I hope she has answers when she comes back."

Mary shook her head. "You don't think she's going to the cottage, do you?"

Charlotte said, "That would be one way to find out what's going on."

Jane said, "Maybe she went to ask Mrs. Reynolds something."

"But, why would Mrs. Reynolds know anything?"

"Charles thinks she's very helpful."

After spending several more minutes agonizing about where Georgiana had gone, she had returned.

She was breathless when she said, "I think William's with Elizabeth."

"How do you know?" Charlotte asked.

"Well, I went downstairs to ask Mrs. Reynolds if my brother had talked to her before going to bed. She said that he asked for a plate of shortbread cookies before disappearing."

"Those are Elizabeth's favorite." Jane said.

Georgiana continued, "I just checked his room and he's not there either."

Mary said, "OK. Now can I go back to sleep?" She climbed into the bed.

"But, what should we do about Harriet and Caroline?"

Mary pulled the covers over her. "If your brother is still with my sister at this time of night, I'm pretty sure our work is done here."

Charlotte laughed and Jane admonished her sister, but it was not really a harsh admonishment. Georgiana grinned and soon all three left Mary in peace and slumber.

"So, you're telling me that you have houses in New York and London?"

"Yes."

"Plus the country house in Derbyshire?"

"That was James' original estate."

"Are those the only other houses you have?"

"Actually. . . we have a small chateaux in France and I'm in the middle of purchasing a villa in Tuscany."

"Oh."

"My father liked to stay abreast of the wine making business, so he thought we should have some place to stay in France." He slid his arm under his head. "I thought it would be nice to have a place where Mario is from. It sounds beautiful."

"So, the villa in Tuscany is a recent purchase?"

"Yeah." He turned his head to look at Elizabeth. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"You don't seem pleased at all."

"It's not that. I'm just trying to. . . take it all in."

"Oh. I suppose it is a bit surprising."

"Just a bit." Elizabeth asked, "You don't have a house in the Hamptons?"

"No." He detected the slight playfulness in her voice. "My father sold it. He didn't like the area."

Elizabeth looked at him and saw the small smile on his lips. "I can't tell if you're joking."

"I'm half joking, but he really did sell it."

"Why?"

"Because my mother liked it better here."

"Oh." Elizabeth said, "You have a lot of houses."

"I suppose I do."

Elizabeth thought for a moment. "Six houses doesn't seem like a lot to you?"

He thought for a minute, before saying, "I understand how you would think it is a lot, but I know some people who buy houses as if they were collecting antiques. They buy houses in Japan, Hawaii, Australia, Germany. All sorts of countries." He continued, "You have to spend significant time at those places to make it worth while and the more places you have, the more time is spent away from home."

Elizabeth realized that his heart belonged to the ranch. And how couldn't it? It was not only a beautiful vineyard, but it also contained precious memories of his family. This was the true William.

"What places have you been to?" William asked.

"I've been to the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. I've also been to Mexico and obviously San Francisco."

"Have you ever flown anywhere?"

"Once, but I was very young. My family and I went out to visit my aunt and uncle in New York before they moved here."

"And that's it?"

"That's it. Not as exciting as your experiences."

"Don't say that. I've never been to the Grand Canyon."

"Really?"

He nodded. "What places would you like to see some day?"

"Hmm. . . I'd like to see New York again. I was too young to really appreciate it the first time. I'd also like to go to London and Paris. Rome would be nice."

"It's a good thing I have places to stay in those cities."

"I didn't pick those cities just because you-"

"I know." He chuckled. "Out of all of them which would you like to visit most?"

Elizabeth was quiet for a moment. "I think Rome. I'd like to see the Coliseum and the Parthenon. You've seen those, haven't you?"

"When I was a kid."

"But, you've been there since, haven't you? How could you not visit them again?"

"I'm usually on business when I'm in Rome."

"Don't use that excuse again."

"It would be really awkward to go sightseeing by yourself."

"Who cares? You're in Rome."

He looked at her. She was looking at the ceiling, but he knew she wasn't really looking at the mosaic anymore. She was dreaming of visiting Rome. He knew her well enough that traveling alone would not stand in the way of her seeing it.

"You are a brave woman."

"I wouldn't call it being brave. If you have the chance, why not take it?"

Deep down, he knew that she was pointing out an observation, but the masculine part, the part that he had to restrain, was hoping it was an invitation. But, he had listened to that part of him earlier and it had cost him.

"Elizabeth, I should get going."

She turned on her side to see him better. "You're probably right."

He could not tear his eyes away from the way her wavy hair rippled over the hollows of her neck. He dreamed about ending his nights like this with Elizabeth beside him.

"Maybe you could tell me about the Grand Canyon."

"The Grand Canyon?" She stifled a yawn. "You want to hear about that?"

"Yes."

"Well, it's hard to describe because it's so vast."

"What does it look like when the sun is setting?"

Elizabeth closed her eyes and tried to recall the image of the Grand Canyon in the evening. "The sky is blue and pink and the sun hides behind some of the canyon tops." She stifled another yawn. "The bottom looks more ominous because there's no light."

When she did not say anything else, he tapped her shoulder. "What else?"

"It's . . . big."

He smiled. "Elizabeth," he moved closer to her, "do you want to go horseback riding?"

"I've never been on a horse before."

"I can teach you how to ride."

"No, they're too big."

"I won't let you fall."

Her eyes were closed, but she reached out and put her hand on his arm. "Horses scare me."

He stroked her hair. "I'll be right there with you."

"Maybe."

He smoothed her hair and listened to her breathe. After a minute like this, Elizabeth had fallen asleep. He knew it was the opportunity for him to leave. When he tried to move, Elizabeth's hand stayed on his arm.

She whispered, "Stay."

It was all he needed to hear and he stayed. He kissed her forehead. He tried to keep his eyes open to make sure she wouldn't disappear and he would discover it had been all a dream, but sleep over came him eventually. They slept facing each other with Elizabeth's hand on his arm and William's hand over hers.

Continued In Next Section