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Chapter 25 ~ "Orion"

Posted on Thursday, 6 May 2004

"He moved his lips about her ears and neck as though in thirsting search for an erogenous zone. A waste of time, he knew from experience. Erogenous zones are either everywhere or nowhere."
~ Joseph Heller Good as Gold

Georgiana woke up to the sound of knocking on her door. She looked at her clock. It was before eight in the morning. She realized it was probably Mrs. Reynolds wanting to discuss the breakfast menu.

She opened the door, but it wasn't Mrs. Reynolds. "Craig."

"Did I wake you?" He gave her a warm smile.

"Yes, but it's alright." She stepped aside to let him in. "Did you sleep well?"

"Yeah." When she had shut the door, Craig walked over to her and greeted her with a kiss.

When they parted, Georgiana covered her mouth. "I haven't even brushed yet."

"I don't care."

"Craig!"

Just when he was about to go in for another kiss, there was a quick knock at the door just as it opened.

"Oh! I'm so sorry."

"Mrs. Reynolds, it's alright."

"I didn't mean to intrude."

Craig let go of Georgiana.

"It's alright. Did you want to speak to me about breakfast?"

"I've already started, but I was. . . unsure about how many places to set."

"Well, there's everyone staying here in the house and at the cottage."

"Right, but. . ."

"What is it, Mrs. Reynolds?" She was usually not so hesitant.

"I just. . . I wasn't sure if I should set a place for Mr. Darcy."

"Why not?"

"I. . . it's not unusual for him to leave early in the morning without telling me."

Georgiana's brow wrinkled. "I don't think he's gone."

"Oh. . . well. . . I'll set a place for him anyway." She shut the door behind her.

"That was strange."

"What?" Craig asked.

"Mrs. Reynolds doesn't know where my brother is."

"Why is that strange?"

"She always knows where he is." She opened the door. "I'll be right back."

Georgiana was only gone for a couple minutes. When she returned, she shut the door and wore a grin on her face.

"Where's your brother?"

"Exactly where he should be."

William was reluctant to open his eyes. He was having a wonderful dream of him and Elizabeth taking a tour of the vineyard on horseback. He had pointed out spots of interest to her and she rewarded him with a smile each time. He hated waking up alone after having dreams like this.

When he opened his eyes, he realized he wasn't in his room. He was in his mother's room at the cottage. The mosaic on the ceiling told him that. Then he remembered last night. He looked over and saw Elizabeth laying on her side, facing him. A wide grin spread across his face.

She was still asleep and looked radiant in the morning light. Her hair and night gown were askew due to tossing and turning through the night, but he thought that just made her look even more radiant. The skirt of her night gown which fell just above her knees had slid up to reveal part of her thigh. One of the straps to her night gown dangled just off her shoulder. If he had been able to see all of this last night, there would have been no way he would have been able to restrain himself for as long as he did.

He knew he should leave as quietly as possible, but his eye caught something on her bare shoulder. He moved closer to see it. It was a beauty mark on the top of her shoulder. He smiled as if he discovered an enticing secret. Then he was reminded of the one he saw several days ago that was nestled behind her ear.

He was gentle about moving a strand of hair away from her ear. However, when he looked, there was nothing. He was sure he saw it that day. Then he realized that it must be behind the other ear. He didn't want to wake Elizabeth, so he was content with occupying his attention with her shoulder.

He touched the beauty mark with his finger tips and was pleased that the feel of her skin was better than what he remembered. The last time he touched her skin was when he had spread Ben Gay on her shoulder. He then remembered all the freckles she had on her back. She hardly had any on her chest. At least none that he could plainly see. He moved the hair that draped over her neck and was able to see the vast expanse of skin that was her neck and part of her chest.

No freckles there.

But, he noticed several moles in different places. Her evening dress last night accentuated her collarbone and chest nicely, but he was not free to admire them like he was now. He steadied his breath. He could get lost in all that skin.

Elizabeth's hand reached for his arm. She was awakened by his finger tips grazing her neck and collarbone. "That tickles."

"I didn't mean to wake you."

"So, I can go back to sleep." Elizabeth closed her eyes and settled into her pillow.

He smiled and continued his explorations. He was connecting the dots. "I should be concerned about all these beauty marks."

"Why?" Her breath was unsteady.

"They could be cancerous."

Elizabeth had to stifle her amusement. There was mild concern in his voice. "I'll have you know that I've had them checked out and they're all benign."

"So, it's just what I thought."

"What?"

"They're here purely for amusement."

Elizabeth opened her eyes. "So, you think I'm just an amusement?"

"No, you're much more." He tipped her face the other way. "I just want to check something." He brushed her hair aside.

"Did you find what you. . ." Her question was answered with his thumb rubbing a spot behind her ear.

"I've found it." He let his thumb linger there for few more seconds before his fingers returned to tracing her neck and collarbone.

"What did you find?"

"You have a mole behind your ear."

"I'd forgotten about it."

"I didn't."

"What do you mean you didn't?"

"I've seen it before."

"When?"

"I. . . at the meeting."

"Meeting?" Elizabeth thought for a moment. "The last meeting was. . ."

"The one when you came in to take Richard's place."

"That was. . . I was only in there for a few minutes."

"And I took advantage of every minute."

She smiled and was finding it more difficult to concentrate on talking. "Why do you keep making that pattern on my skin?"

"What pattern?"

"It kind of feels like a square."

"Oh."

Elizabeth saw the color rise in his cheeks. "What is it?"

"I. . . noticed a constellation. Well, part of one."

"Which one?"

"Orion."

She thought for a minute. "Is he the warrior?"

"The hunter."

"I've got a hunter on my chest."

He laughed. "You have his body." He touched a mole beneath her collarbone to one diagonally below it. He then traced a line that stopped at the edge of her night gown. "His belt would be somewhere here." He a traced a short line on the top of her night gown. He drew another line that closed the torso.

The next line he drew extended from the torso. "This would be his arm and this here," he drew another line from the mole that was on the top of her shoulder to another mole that was next to the place where the bottom of the shoulder strap connected to the night gown. "Would've been his club."

"Oh." She had tried to pay attention, but she lost her concentration once he started touching her again.

"Do you know the story of Orion?"

"No."

"He had two dogs he would hunt with and they hunted different animals. There are two constellations of some of the animals he hunted that are near Orion, Lepus, the rabbit, and Taurus, the bull."

"He hunted rabbits? Why rabbits?"

"For their fur?"

"I've got a rabbit killer on my chest."

"He's not a rabbit killer. He's a hunter. He hunts other animals too."

She looked down at her chest. "You don't see anything else?"

"Well, I'd be more than happy to search further, but," He eyed her night gown, "there's an impediment."

"And it's staying there."

He didn't dare oppose the determined look in her eyes. "There's also another part to Orion's story."

"You're not going to tell me he killed kittens too, are you?"

"No." He chuckled. "According to Greek mythology, Orion fell in love with Merope, one of the sisters of the Pleiades. Unfortunately, Merope wouldn't have anything to do with Orion."

Her expression softened. "It sounds tragic."

"It gets even more tragic. He stepped on a scorpion and died."

"He died? But, what about Merope?"

"She didn't want him."

"And so he died without knowing?"

"Knowing what?"

"If he had another chance?"

"How could he have another chance if she refused him in the first place?"

"But, what. . . didn't she wonder if she could've been with him?"

His brow wrinkled.

"I mean, even though he killed rabbits, maybe he wasn't so bad."

"You believe in second chances?"

Before she could say anything, there was a stout knock on the door. Elizabeth froze in her spot. "Yes?"

"Elizabeth, did I wake you?" It was her uncle.

"Uh. . ." She sat up. "It's alright." She moved to get out of bed, but William took hold of her arm.

"Mrs. Reynolds said breakfast would be served at 9 o'clock."

"Alright. I'll get ready."

"See you in a bit then."

When they heard her uncle's footsteps go away from the door, Elizabeth turned to William. "Why didn't you let me answer the door?"

"Because I'm in here with you."

Her eyebrow arched. "Are you afraid of people knowing you're with me?"

"I'm afraid of what your uncle would do to me if he knew I spent the night with you."

"We didn't do anything wrong."

"I know, but to a man who is like a father to you, I don't think he'd split hairs over the reason why I was in his niece's bedroom the whole night."

She was about to say something, but she hesitated.

"What?"

"It wasn't the whole night."

"Most of the night." He smiled. "I really should get going." He got out of bed. "If Mrs. Reynolds is awake, then the staff is too. It won't be long until everyone else is awake."

Elizabeth got out of bed and stood next to the door. "Will you be able to. . . sneak back in?"

"Yeah, but I can just say I was out for a ride."

"A what?"

"A horse ride."

"Oh. But. . . you're still in your tux."

He looked down at himself. "Oh, right."

"You better hurry."

"Yeah." Before he walked out the door, he turned to Elizabeth and gently held her face in his hands. "I'll see you later." He gave her a light kiss. His lips lingered over hers for a moment before he left the room.

Elizabeth sighed and walked to the bathroom. She turned on the faucets for the shower. Then she undressed.

She was about to step in when she heard a knock on the door again. She turned off the faucets and threw on a towel. Then Elizabeth answered the door. It was her aunt.

"Good morning," Elizabeth said.

"Morning. It looks like you're going to need more time getting ready."

"Sorry. If you're all ready, I'll meet you there."

"Alright."

Elizabeth shut the door and walked toward the bathroom. On her way she stopped in front of the dressing mirror. She had a better view of the moles William had been tracing on her skin. She was not sure about what he saw. She lowered her towel a little bit to get a better look.

Just then one of the French doors opened. "Elizabeth, I-"

She held her towel up. "What are you doing back here?"

"I was just. . ." He saw the towel. "Why isn't this door locked?"

She walked over to him. "I didn't think it needed to be locked."

"Anyone could just walk in."

"I didn't think anyone could just walk in because this is the Darcy's private residence." She saw he was still in his tux. "Why haven't you gone back to the house, yet?"

"I. . ." He shook his head. It was hard enough having a conversation with Elizabeth when she was in a night gown, but a towel. . .

"William? Why are you here?"

"I came back to ask. . . to ask how long it would take you to come to the house."

Elizabeth blinked several times. Then she said, "You're serious?"

"I just. . . I was wondering if it mattered to you if we both showed up late to breakfast."

"I don't think it can be helped. My aunt, uncle, and all the kids have already left."

"They've already gone?"

She nodded. "I told them I'd meet them there as soon as I was ready, but at this rate," she gave him a pointed look, "We'll both be there at the same time."

He shook his head. "Sorry." He looked at her for a moment before he reached around the door and looked at the door knob as he pushed in the lock. "Just making sure."

"I think I'll be safe."

His eyes lingered on her figure, "This is to protect you from me." He shut the door and she heard his footsteps on the cobble path.

When Elizabeth returned to the bathroom, she tested the water and had to adjust the temperature. It was not cold enough.

Elizabeth was relieved that she and William were not the last to come down to breakfast. It was Caroline. Breakfast was well under way when Caroline made her entrance. Her entrance would have been grand if it were not upstaged by Martha chasing Kate around the elongated table while Laura cried about always being the duck. Caroline was annoyed that her presence was barely noticed, but was soon appeased that Elizabeth was sitting no where near William.

During breakfast, they discussed what they could do for the day. William had expressed some interest in going horseback riding. The knowing look he gave to Elizabeth across the table was not missed by some people. It was Emma who pointed out that not everyone would be able to go, knowing her friend Harriet had never been on a horse before.

William realized that the children would be left out and he did not want to do anything that would displease the Gardiners in any way. Georgiana suggested that they take a walking tour of the grounds. Later, they could have a late lunch out on the backyard. The Knightleys were departing in the evening and Georgiana said they should be finished with the tour before they had to leave. Everyone liked Georgiana's idea and agreed on the tour.

They had started with the Herb Garden. It was not like any herb garden that Elizabeth had ever seen. Down the center was a gravel path and on both sides were the herbs. The herbs were separated in triangular plots which were positioned to make diamond shapes. There were some herbs she recognized and many that were new to her.

The children ran ahead down the path and Mary followed them. Everyone else had formed little groups. William spoke with the Gardiners about how his mother had improved the Herb Garden by bringing back some of the forgotten herbs like agrimony. Caroline trailed him occasionally chiming in about how wonderful his mother was to do such a charming thing. Jane and Charles were behind them. Georgiana, Craig, and Charlotte were talking about wine making and how they used some herbs from this garden in the wine. Richard and Greg walked in companionable silence. Louisa, Harriet, and Emma were talking about the party last night. Elizabeth and Hurst brought up the rear.

"Damn tedious way to spend an afternoon."

Elizabeth laughed at Hurst's comment. "What would you rather do?"

Hurst thought for a moment. "Anything besides walking around Darcy's place."

"Aren't you curious to see what's here?"

"I've seen some of it already. And the reason why I've only seen some of it is because the last time we ran out of time."

"So, now you might get to see all of it."

Hurst rolled his eyes.

"What's so bad about that?"

"He could at least give us a golf cart or something. It'll take us hours just to get through all the gardens."

"There can't be that many."

He shook his head at Elizabeth's naive comment. "You don't understand. Darcy's mother loved gardens."

"So?"

"And his father was so smitten with his mother he did anything to please her."

"That sounds lovely."

Hurst groaned.

Louisa looked back at her husband. "A point that you should take to heart."

Elizabeth stifled her laughter and instead asked, "How many gardens are there?"

"I don't know."

"You don't remember how many you've seen?"

"After a while, they all just start blending. Flowers look all the same to me."

Elizabeth shook her head.

Louisa said, "That's the builder in him talking."

"You know, Gill, you could score some brownie points with your wife if you showed a little more interest in other things besides building and tearing down stuff."

"You're probably right."

She waited for him to continue, but he did not. She smacked him on the arm and said, "So, why don't you?"

He rubbed his arm. "There's too many to learn."

"You don't have to learn all of them. Just learn one."

"Which one?"

"Her favorite one!"

"Oh."

"You do know her favorite flower, right?"

"Uh. . ."

Louisa narrowed her eyes at Gil and then said, "Gil, you should know. You sent them to me for my birthday last month."

He could not admit to his wife that it was his secretary that sent them. He did know. Deep down he did. He just could not remember at the moment because Emma, Harriet, and Elizabeth were all expecting him to answer. Right now.

He cleared his throat. "Uh. . . so. . . Elizabeth, why did you leave the party early last night?"

It was Elizabeth's turn to be flustered because now Louisa, Emma, and Harriet looked at her, waiting for an answer. "Well. . . uh. . . I was not feeling well."

"Really? You seemed fine when you were dancing with Tom Bertram."

Elizabeth wanted to familiarize Gil with her elbow again. "He's a nice guy. I think. . . it was the beer. After a while, it got to me."

"One sip?"

"Yeah." She gave Hurst a warning look. "I don't usually drink alcohol."

"But-"

Louisa said, "I hope you're feeling better."

"I am." Elizabeth said, "Thank you."

Emma said, "Greg told me you work with Richard."

"Yes, I'm his assistant."

Emma thought for a moment. Then said, "So, you must also work with Charles and William."

"Well, I see them at work, but I don't work with them."

"Of course."

"In fact, that's how my sister met Charles." Elizabeth got a sense that Emma was perhaps sizing her up and hoped she could steer the conversation in another direction. "We were all having drinks at Charlotte's dad's bar and my sister joined us. They hit it off so well. They began dating."

"And now they're engaged?"

"Yes. A few days now."

"Have they set a date?"

"Not yet, but I think they're planning on a short engagement. Maybe they'll get married in the summer."

"That's only a few months away."

"They've been seeing each other for nearly a year. I don't think they want to wait any longer."

"I can understand that. And how about you?"

"Me?" She blinked several times.

Emma smiled. "Are you engaged?"

"Oh, no. Not me."

"I'm sure you have a boyfriend."

"I. . . uh. . ." She wasn't sure if she did. Did she?

Hurst said, "I'm sure she does."

"What?"

"Aren't you and-"

"You know, we're falling behind from the rest." Elizabeth walked ahead.

Emma looked at Hurst. "Do you know who she's going out with?"

Louisa answered before Hurst could say anything. "No, he doesn't."

Hurst was about to say something, but the warning look was enough to silence him. Louisa felt that there was enough tension between Caroline and Emma regarding William's marital status. She didn't want her husband creating more tension by throwing Elizabeth into the mix.

Harriet said, "I wonder if Robert Martin will be joining us."

In the meantime, Elizabeth had caught up with Richard and Greg.

Richard said, "Are you enjoying the tour so far?"

Elizabeth looked around and saw various rows of lettuce, spinach, and green bean vines climbing up supports. "I didn't realize how extensive this place was."

"There is a lot to see."

"Hurst was saying William should've given us golf carts."

He laughed. "That's actually a good idea, but I don't think there would be enough for everyone."

"Well, one is all Hurst wants."

Greg and Richard laughed, remembering Elizabeth's crusade to get Hurst a beer last night. Both were aware that a beer had never been served at a Toast Party before. Neither of them were sure, however, if Elizabeth was aware of the precedence she set.

After a moment, Elizabeth asked, "How many times have you both been here?"

Greg said, "I've been here several times. I've known William since college."

Richard said, "Obviously, I've known William and Georgiana since we were kids, so this place is almost like a second home to me."

She looked at Richard. "Why didn't you tell me about this place?"

He gave her an apologetic look. "I don't know. I just thought William might have mentioned it already."

"He didn't." Elizabeth was watching him while he talked with her aunt and uncle. "I don't know why."

Greg said, "I suppose he assumes everyone knows about Pemberley."

"You're probably right." Elizabeth felt ignorant because she didn't know.

"And, I think it's something you can't bring up in a way that doesn't sound like a bad pick-up line." Richard cleared his voice. "Hey, I've got this vineyard. . ." He said in his best smarmy pick-up line voice.

Elizabeth laughed. "I guess I could see that, but," she glanced at William again and got a look at his profile, "A man like him could pull it off."

"True."

Greg said, "Have you known William for very long?"

"Not very long. Nearly six months, but we didn't get along for most of that time."

"Really? That's hard to believe."

"Well, it's mostly my fault. I didn't like him at first."

Greg stared at her for a moment and then at Richard.

Richard said, "I know. My cousin usually has the opposite effect on females."

"In college he had to beat them off with a stick."

"Well, I hear it's not much different now." Elizabeth said.

"No," Greg lowered his voice, "Emma hopes that her friend Harriet has a chance."

Richard laughed, but Elizabeth's brow wrinkled.

Greg saw the look on Elizabeth's face and said, "Don't worry. I told Emma that Harriet doesn't have a chance and besides," he waited a second to make sure his wife was not within hearing distance, "I think Harriet has a thing for Robert Martin."

Elizabeth's features relaxed somewhat. Was it that obvious she had feelings for William?

Richard asked her, "So, what changed your mind?"

"What do you mean?" Elizabeth said.

"You said you didn't like William, at first. I assume your feelings have changed."

"It's possible."

"Then. . ."

"Well, I don't hate him. . . anymore."

"That's a relief."

"Was I that bad?"

"Bad? No, I would say stubborn. Thick-headed. Obstinate."

"OK."

"Unyielding. Fixed."

"I get it, Richard."

"Pig-headed."

"Richard!"

Greg laughed.

Elizabeth had a mild scowl on her face.

Richard said, "It's better late than never."

Elizabeth did not say anything.

"Come on, Elizabeth." He squeezed her shoulder. "You know I was rooting for you and William the whole time."

"I know. I just hate it when you're right."

"So, then you-"

Elizabeth held up her hand. "I'm not saying anything else just so you can crow about it later." She walked off joining Charlotte who was just ahead of them.

Charlotte said, "I was just going to speak to you. I heard Richard giving you a hard time."

"It's alright. It's what he does."

Charlotte smiled.

"What were you all talking about?"

"Georgiana and Craig were talking about wine making. It's actually quite interesting, but," she steered herself and Elizabeth away from them, "I was beginning to feel like a third wheel."

They were now in the rose garden. William's mom really did love white roses because there was a section of the garden filled with various kinds of white roses. Not all were in bloom, but it was easy to imagine how beautiful it all would look in the spring.

Charlotte said, "So, what happened to you last night?"

They stood in front of a sculpted bust of Shakespeare on a pillar with an arch of white roses over it. "I left early."

"I know that. Are you alright?"

"Yeah. It was just a long day and the party. . . it was nice, but I was also a little nervous."

"Nervous? Why?"

"Well, I was wearing a dress selected by someone else for someone else and I was attending a party for a very exclusive crowd."

"You looked great in your dress and the people were not that bad."

"Thanks and you're right. The people weren't that bad."

"So, why did you leave early?"

"William and I had an argument."

Charlotte opened and closed her mouth several times before she said, "An argument? Is everything alright? What happened?"

Elizabeth held up her hand. "Don't worry. Everything's fine now."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah. He was upset at how well Tom and I got along. He thought I-"

"That you and Tom. . ."

"Yeah."

Charlotte laughed.

"What's so funny?"

"That William could ever think such a thing. Well, you two did look good together which is why I can understand why he'd be so jealous."

"Jealous?"

"Yeah. It's when a guy likes someone a lot and doesn't like it when that person is with someone else."

"I know that." Elizabeth steered Charlotte further away from everyone. "It didn't occur to me at first that he could be jealous."

"What else could it have been?"

"I just thought. . . things are so new right now. . . we haven't really said anything about. . . commitment."

Charlotte shook her head. "You don't need to say anything about it."

"Why not?"

"Because he's already committed to you."

"What are you talking about?"

"Elizabeth, don't tell me you don't know."

"Know what?"

"He's in love with you."

Elizabeth stared at her friend in disbelief.

"It's so obvious."

"But. . . did he tell you that?"

"No, but think about it. Why would he come to the ranch so suddenly?"

"For the Toast Party."

"Do you think he would've been so eager to host it again if you weren't so close by?"

"I. . ."

"Why would he react that way towards Tom if he just liked you?"

Deep down, Elizabeth had suspected something, but she had not yet let herself explore the possibility that he harbored strong feelings for her. She had hoped in time that she could earn his love, but the possibility that she already had it. . . It was impossible. She had done nothing to deserve it.

The whole group moved on to the orchards. There weren't any fruits, but there were green buds growing on the trees. It was the beginning of March and in a month there would be blossoms permeating the orchard.

Charlotte had left her friend long ago to let her ponder the possibility of William's feelings. Elizabeth had wandered through the orchard, unaware of where she was going. It was some time before she realized that she had lost sight of everyone.

Elizabeth walked through a row of peach trees and when she got to the end, she found rows and rows of grape vines. She figured if she walked along the edge of the vineyard, eventually she'd encounter them.

She admired how on her left how endless the vineyard seemed and on her right how the orchard seemed to mirror it as well. She could well imagine how lush everything would be in the spring. The grape vines would have more verdant leaves and the fruit trees would have pastel colored blossoms.

The orchard ended, but a grove of poplar trees continued. Elizabeth decided to go through the thicket, hoping to come across a path that the others would be on. It was not long until she did find a path, but she did not see anyone. She continued walking on the path, believing that she was behind everyone and it would just be a matter of minutes when she caught up with them.

When she did get past the thicket, Elizabeth came into a clearing. To her left once again was the vineyard, but to her right was a single oak tree several yards away, encircled by boxwood. Beyond the oak tree was a profile of the big house. Elizabeth walked towards the tree, enchanted by its grandeur and stateliness.

She was a yard away from the boxwood that encircled the tree when she saw a wooden bench wrapped around the base. Elizabeth entered an opening in the boxwood bush and sat on the bench. The tree was on a slight incline, so it provided an expansive view of the vineyard and its surroundings. It was breathtaking. It would be easy to forget everything else while taking in the immensity of the ranch while sitting under this tree. She looked up and saw how the branches stretched out and provided a canopy against the California sun. Elizabeth sat back against the tree and let the splendor of William's home overtake her.

William had left the others who were on their way to the stables. When it became apparent that Elizabeth would not be rejoining them, he became concerned. Charlotte told him that she was with her in the orchards, but not for very long. She had not noticed in which direction Elizabeth had wandered off. Caroline had brought up that Elizabeth probably returned to the cottage. Perhaps she was already tired of walking. Everyone who really knew Elizabeth knew that was unlikely.

They passed through the orchards and into a thicket of trees. A squirrel had caught the children's attention and they ran after it with some hesitation. When it stopped in the middle of the path and stared at the girls, they froze in their spot, unsure of what to expect next. John, Emma's son, took a step forward and the squirrel bolted up a tree. The girls walked in front of the tree to see the squirrel hide in a knot hole, poking its head out every now and then to check if the girls were still there. It was then that Mary noticed that Thomas needed his diaper changed. Georgiana said that the cottage was just a few yards away past the woods and they could walk in that direction. They were walking away from the vineyard.

On the way, Madeline was very apologetic about having to make the detour. She admitted she didn't know what to expect on the tour, but she decided that she would bring Thomas' baby bag with her just in case for the rest of the tour.

William was relieved that they would be stopping by the cottage. Even though Caroline's idea was highly unlikely, William hoped that there was some truth in it. They all waited in the private courtyard while Madeline went in to change Thomas. When she returned with just Thomas, William became worried.

It was Jane who expressed her concern and it was all the excuse William needed to go search for Elizabeth. He insisted that they go on to the stables and that when he found Elizabeth they would meet them all there. He assured Jane that Elizabeth was probably off exploring on her own. Jane knew that this was quite possible.

At this point, however, Hurst decided he was going back to the house. He claimed he needed some rest. Caroline decided she would do the same as well.

They all parted ways. William decided to continue on the path in the woods. He figured Elizabeth would find her way back to it eventually. He walked on it for several minutes, but Elizabeth never came onto the path. He knew that there was a clearing ahead and perhaps she would be there.

When he reached the clearing, he didn't see a sign of Elizabeth. All that was there was his father's tree. Sometimes when he was out riding, he would stop at the tree and let the horse rest while he sat and took in the view of the vineyard. It had an unusually calming effect. He was about to walk up to the big house, thinking that if Elizabeth came this way, she would probably go back to the house and wait for everyone.

He walked a few yards when he stopped to look at the tree again. He realized there was also the possibility that Elizabeth might have gone to the tree as well. That possibility became more likely in his mind especially after he remembered that he told her about it last night.

When he was a few yards away from the tree, he could see that it was deserted. He walked around the tree just to be sure and was soon rewarded by finding Elizabeth seated, facing the vineyard. He was amused to see that she had fallen asleep.

He sat next to her and reached for her face. "Elizabeth."

Her eyes fluttered open. "William?"

"I thought you were lost."

"Lost?" She yawned. "How could I get lost here?"

"I just thought-" He chuckled. "Wait, you're the one who's brave enough to explore Rome on your own."

She smiled. "Where is everyone?"

"They went to the stables, except Hurst and Caroline. They're back at the house."

She rested her head on his shoulder while he caressed her face. "This is a very nice tree."

"It's my father's tree."

"Your father's. . . Oh." She looked up at him with sleepy eyes. "This is the tree."

He nodded.

"I can understand how that happened." Elizabeth nestled her head on his shoulder again.

William felt her hand slide up his chest. He hesitated before he wrapped his arms around her. "What. . . Are you alright?"

She kissed his neck. "Why shouldn't I be? We're under the tree."

"Elizabeth," it was difficult for him to concentrate because of the way her lips would brush up against his skin, "Uh. . ." He heard her mumble something about a dream. "What did you say?"

"This is going to be the best dream I've ever had." She reached up and grasped a fistful of his hair and brought his mouth down to hers. His mouth was warm and welcoming. This was going to be a very good dream.

To say that William was stunned would be an understatement. Elizabeth was determined to have him. And she was succeeding.

She kissed him like she always did in her dreams. She tried to convey her passion and desire as much as she could before she woke up. She could not do it when she was awake.

Then without warning, her dream changed. He was pulling her away and he withdrew his lips from her. "Elizabeth, you have to stop."

He never told her to stop in her dreams. "Stop? What. . ." She stared at him with a saddened expression. She reached for his face. "Did I do something wrong?"

"No, of course not. It's just. . . this isn't a dream."

"What are you talking about? This can't be real."

"It is." He took her hand and placed it over his heart. "Can you feel that?"

His heart pounded in his chest and she could see he was trying to catch his breath. She withdrew her hand and covered her mouth as her eyes widened. All she could manage to whisper was, "Oh my god."

"It's alright, Elizabeth."

She moved away from him. "I thought-I didn't realize-"

"It's alright."

She shook her head. "I had imagined you were sitting next to me. I guess I fell asleep and then. . . you touched me. . ."

"I was looking for you. I was worried."

She stood up. "I'm so sorry. I didn't-"

He stood next to her and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Don't say you're sorry. Those feelings were real."

It was too much for Elizabeth to accept. It was one thing for her to explore these feelings in her dreams when there was no real consequence, but now, in reality, it was too much. "I can't," was all she could get out. She took a step away from him.

He caught her arm. "Don't." He held her hand. "Please don't say it was a mistake and that you want to forget about it."

She felt so exposed and vulnerable. It was one thing to think about her desires, but another for him to know about them. She was not ready to share them yet. However, she could not also deny that she had enjoyed what she did. Elizabeth knew that even though she desired him, he deserved much more than just pure lust especially if what Charlotte said was true.

"I just. . ." Elizabeth shifted in her spot. "I didn't mean to take advantage of you."

His smile broke the tension. "If anything, I was the one-"

"No, you didn't. I was. . . You wouldn't have been able to stop me."

He arched his eyebrow. "I thought I just did."

"Well, because this wasn't a dream. In my dreams, you never tell me to stop." She felt the back of her neck burn. Didn't she just decide she wasn't going to talk about her private desires?

He looked down at their hands held together. "That could've been true a few minutes ago." He raised his eyes at her. "I just. . . if you were going to have me, I didn't want you believing it was a dream."

"You say that like. . . it would be that easy."

"It is."

Elizabeth stared at him. He was sincere and she knew if she tried again, this time there would be no objection. She tried to lighten the conversation. "I didn't think you were that easy."

"I'm not, but when a beautiful woman kisses me like you just did, I can hardly keep my guard up."

"That's not very reassuring. That means that any attractive woman could have you."

"I'm only attracted to one." He drew her closer to him.

"William," he held her face and ran his thumb across her jaw, "I. . . you won't accept my apology and neither of us are going to forget what just happened, but. . ."

"But?" He held her close to him.

"I never meant to. . . share those feelings."

"What do you mean?"

"It's obvious I can't deny that I've never felt any desire to. . . be with you, but. . . so far that's all it's been."

It was several minutes before he let go of Elizabeth. "I think I understand."

"It wouldn't be right to. . . I'm just not sure right now."

William rested his hands on his hips and stared at the vineyard. "I understand that you need to sort out your feelings and your need to be sure. We haven't had the best start." He turned away from the vineyard and looked at Elizabeth. "Just be sure that if you have any feelings for me, they're for me and not for what I have or what I've done for you." He walked away towards the big house.

Elizabeth walked after him. "You think I care about your money or your connections? I'll tell you what I think-"

He turned around and said, "Before you say anything you might regret, I know you don't care about all that."

"Then. . ."

"What I meant was I want you to want me because you do, not because of the ranch or because I helped your uncle with Lydia's case."

"I. . ." She opened and closed her mouth several times.

He took her hand. "Let's go back to the house. I think you might need something to drink."

He lead her back to the house. They walked in silence, both dealing with their thoughts about what had just happened. She could not deny that she was more than impressed by the ranch and that she felt gratitude for what William did for Lydia. She also felt a burning desire to have him. But, was that all she felt? She didn't think so. She did care for him. She enjoyed his company. But, was she in love with him?

William had made quick time getting back to the house. He sat Elizabeth down in a chair on the porch.

Hurst was sitting in the chair next to her. "There you are. Did you get lost?"

"Yes-"

"No-"

Hurst looked at William and then at Elizabeth. William cleared his throat. "She was lost for a little while, but she found the oak tree."

"Oh."

"I'm going to ask Mrs. Reynolds to bring out some refreshments." He disappeared into the house.

When he was sure William was gone, Hurst said, "What really happened?"

"What?"

He saw that she was distracted. "Elizabeth, are you alright?"

"Yeah. Just. . . tired."

He raised his eyebrow. "Tired? From what?"

"Thinking."

"Oh, that. I know what you mean." He ceased his questions.

A minute later, Caroline stepped out onto the porch. She cast a sweeping glance down the porch and when she only saw Hurst and Elizabeth, she let out a frustrated sigh. "I heard William had returned."

"He did. He's talking to Mrs. Reynolds."

"Oh." Caroline walked towards the railing. "I was thinking perhaps we could both walk over to the stables to join everyone else."

"He didn't say anything about going back to the stables." Hurst said.

"I'm sure he could be persuaded."

"By you?"

Caroline looked at her brother-in-law. "Of course, by me. I'm sure he'd be eager to get back to the stables."

Hurst snorted.

"What?"

"Nothing."

"Well, what do you know anyway. You just sit and drink."

"Leave him alone."

Hurst watched Elizabeth and Caroline stare each other down. This was going to be good. He decided to stoke the fires. "It's OK, Elizabeth. I'm used to it."

"No, it's not OK."

That seemed to do the trick, Hurst thought.

Elizabeth continued, "She doesn't have any right to talk to you that way."

Caroline scoffed. "For your information, you're talking about Gil."

"I know and he's a human being."

Caroline rolled her eyes.

"He also knows a lot more things then you give him credit for."

"Like what?"

"Like the fact that William can't be manipulated so easily."

She straightened her shoulders. "Who said anything about manipulating?"

Elizabeth flew out of her seat. "You can't stand there and act like you don't know what I'm talking about."

Caroline looked away.

"You don't think he knows that you've been lying to his aunt. Feeding her lies about me and him?"

Her eyes flashed at Elizabeth, but she remained composed. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Elizabeth's expression softened. "Well, I guess I can't exactly say they were all lies."

Caroline's eyes narrowed at her. "What?"

"I mean, it's not really a lie if something is going on between us."

"That's a lie."

"It'd actually be called the truth."

"You're lying."

"And, I can't also deny that it has been going on for some time."

Caroline turned away from her.

Elizabeth continued, "It can't be a coincidence that I'd take my vacation so close to his ranch, can it?"

Caroline muttered something under her breath.

"And it can't be a coincidence that he invited me and my relatives to the Toast party, right?"

She spun on her heels. "You're lying! You're making something out of nothing. Do you honestly expect me to believe he came here this weekend just to be with you?"

"Why do you think he came back to California in the first place?"

"Because of his obligations. Because he had to be here for the party."

"You go on believing that, Caroline, if it gives you comfort."

"I refuse to believe that William could possibly have such feelings for you that he'd be willing to cross the country and then follow you where ever you go. It's not possible."

Elizabeth shrugged. "Why not?"

"Because. . . because he. . ."

"Are you going to tell me he's in love with you?"

Caroline's face was flushed. She opened and closed her mouth several times, but nothing came out.

Elizabeth said, "Let's get one thing straight here. You will never have him."

Caroline flew into a rage and lunged at Elizabeth. It was William who held Caroline away from Elizabeth.

He said, "Caroline, I think it's time for you to go."

"You're asking me to leave?"

"You can't stay here especially if you're going to try to hurt Elizabeth."

Caroline looked at him with disbelief. "But, she's the one who was making up lies about you."

"Elizabeth would never make up anything about me."

"She claims that you two have a relationship. That there's something going on between you."

"Like I said, Caroline, Elizabeth wouldn't make up anything about me."

"But-"

He took Caroline by the arm and escorted her inside. "I'll see to it that Mrs. Reynolds helps you with your things." He gave Elizabeth a reassuring look before he disappeared into the house.

"Well," Emma stood at the bottom of the stairs to the porch with John on her hip, "I guess that clears things up." She walked over to Elizabeth. "It's obvious that you and William are perfect for each other." She smiled at Elizabeth and then at Hurst. "John has a boo-boo. We're going upstairs to clean it up."

Elizabeth sat back down on her chair.

"Well," Hurst said.

"What?"

"I think that was a lot more fun than walking."

Chapter 26 ~ The Mere Idea of You

Posted on Sunday, 30 May 2004

"I'm in love with love. It's heavenly when you're falling for someone and you can't stop thinking about her." ~On girlfriend, Kate Bosworth, Orlando Bloom US Weekly Magazine, February 2, 2004

Dinner was an intimate affair. The Knightleys had left a few hours early to be on time for their evening flight back to New York. Harriet left with them as well, but Georgiana invited her to visit soon, sensing that Robert Martin would appreciate seeing her again.

Caroline had gone and although she knew her sister was wrong to try to manipulate William, Louisa shortly followed to comfort her sister. Hurst insisted that they stay, but Louisa prevailed revealing a compassion for her sister that Hurst could not deny. He would tolerate Caroline only for Louisa's sake.

The dinner then consisted of the Gardiners, Mary, Jane, Charles, Elizabeth, William, Charlotte, Richard, Georgiana, and Craig. Although they were still a fairly large group, they were on such close terms with one another that they decided to have dinner in the kitchen.

There was what was affectionately referred to as the ranch hands' table. It was typically where workers of the ranch would have their meals. It was an elongated worn-out knotty pine table with matching benches. Mrs. Reynolds bustled from table to stove, serving food and taking a seat when she could. Robert Martin sat with them as well, hoping to glean more information on the pretty Harriet Smith.

Conversation was merry and soon Richard and William were telling stories about the ranch. The Gardiner children were enthralled by William's descriptions of the horses in the stables and Richard's adventure stories about finding hidden treasure from the great James Darcy. Everyone else listened with hidden amusement.

Everyone except Elizabeth.

The events of the afternoon weighed heavily on her mind, but she could not lock herself up in her room to contemplate them. She thought she'd go crazy. Only two people suspected that something was amiss with Elizabeth.

Jane was curious to know what her sister was feeling. Charlotte had told Jane about their conversation in the rose garden. It was not surprising that Elizabeth did not realize that William was in love with her. Elizabeth was always slow on the up take when it came to William. Jane's concern was how Elizabeth was handling this realization. She was sure her sister did not oppose it. She was also sure that Elizabeth would not know how to proceed. Things had been so hard for both William and Elizabeth.

The other person that felt Elizabeth was out of sorts was William. She never said anything, but her distracted behavior and hesitation towards him led him to believe that something was wrong.

He knew it had to do with what happened under his dad's tree plus the confrontation between herself and Caroline. He caught the tail end of their argument and heard her say that Caroline would never have him. There was a certainty in the tone of her voice that no one could doubt what Elizabeth's intentions were. Yet, after he made sure Caroline was gone, Elizabeth had become distant, reserved. Quite unlike her amiable self.

He knew Elizabeth well enough to know that she was not one to back down from an argument, especially with Caroline. Elizabeth eradicated Caroline's fantasy of being the mistress of Pemberley Vineyards by throwing each of William's actions since he returned from New York at Caroline's carefully constructed guise of a society woman. Even Caroline's thick veneer of pretentiousness could not protect her from the glaring truth that she had no chance with William.

Then why was Elizabeth so reserved towards him now? Was the argument just an act? Could she have just said those words to get Caroline's ire? William believed that it was possible.

When a pleasant lull overcame the conversation, Mrs. Reynolds said, "It's so good to see this table occupied like this again." She gave William and Georgiana an affectionate look. "It certainly has been too long."

Georgiana reached across the table and squeezed Mrs. Reynolds arm. "I like it like this too."

Not wanting to see two women he knew for most of his life get teary eyed, Richard said, "Is there anymore peach cobbler?"

Charlotte elbowed him in the ribs. "They were having a moment and all you can talk about is peach cobbler?"

Richard rubbed his side. "I just-I-They looked like they were going to cry."

Everyone laughed.

Georgiana said, "Don't worry. If we did, it was because we're so happy."

Mrs. Reynolds said, "If their parents were here, they would be so happy and proud that their children have made such good friends."

This time William took Mrs. Reynolds' hand. "Do you approve?"

She could see remnants of the eight-year old boy in his expression, eager for approval. In a rare act of affection, Mrs. Reynolds kissed the top of his head. "Very much."

Madeline said, "We're grateful we've had the opportunity to visit Pemberley. It's beyond our expectations. I'll never forget this experience."

William said, "I'm very pleased to hear you say that, but. . . you talk as if this is going to be your last visit."

Madeline was touched to see the genuine concern on William's face. She then looked at her husband who was also helpless to respond.

Georgiana said, "I hope . . . Well, don't you want to visit us again?"

It was the girls who piped up a, "Yes!!" Laura looked at her mother, "Can we? Please?"

"Sweetheart." She kissed her daughter's hair. How could she explain that the Darcys did not usually socialize with people like them? This was a once in a lifetime opportunity.

William said, "We had assumed that you'd visit us regularly."

Edward looked at his wife who gave him a bewildered expression. He was not sure how to respond, so he looked at Elizabeth.

Elizabeth hesitated before she said, "I think what William is trying to say is that he and Georgiana want to continue their acquaintance with you."

"Oh." Edward exchanged surprised looks with his wife. He said, "We weren't expecting. . ."

"We thought . . . We don't want you to feel obligated to have us here." Madeline said.

"We don't." Georgiana said and looked at her brother.

William continued, "It has been truly a pleasure having all of you here. We really hope you will visit us more often in the future."

Edward and Madeline were moved beyond words. They were not expecting to become friends with the Darcys.

"I think they'd like that as well." Elizabeth said for her aunt and uncle.

Mrs. Reynolds, feeling very please with how things were going, said, "Who wants more peach cobbler?"

There was an immediate affirmation for more cobbler from Richard and Charles. Charlotte said she would have more, if someone would split some of it with her. Georgiana volunteered to share with her. The girls asked their mother if they could have more, but Madeline decided it was time to retire to the cottage.

She said, "It's bedtime and we're driving out early tomorrow."

The girls were disappointed, but listened to their mother.

William asked, "Are you sure you couldn't leave after lunch?"

Madeline said, "Thank you, but I've got to get the house in order and Edward has a few things to look over for work."

Edward and Madeline gathered their children. Laura and Kate followed their father with reluctance and Madeline scooped up Thomas from the bench.

Elizabeth stood up to follow them out, but Madeline said, "Elizabeth, don't feel you have to turn in now because of us. You can stay up as long as you want, but," she hesitated before she said, "I'd like to speak to you outside, if it's alright."

"Of course."

Everyone wished them good night. Madeline said she'd see Mary in the morning. She was heading back with the Gardiners.

Elizabeth followed her aunt down the porch steps. Edward had walked a few feet away with the girls. Madeline stopped at the bottom of the steps.

"Elizabeth, I'm not sure how to say this."

"You can say anything to me."

Madeline took a deep breath and stroked her son's sleeping head before she said, "Is there something going on between you and William?"

Elizabeth let out a small laugh. "Is it that obvious?"

"It's obvious how much he admires you. Your uncle had a suspicion, but after this weekend, it's obvious that William is quite taken with you."

She played with a tuft of grass with the tip of her shoe. "I know."

"And how do you feel?"

Elizabeth looked up at her aunt. "I . . . I hope some day I'll deserve him."

Her aunt gave her a questioning look, but did not push. It seemed her niece did have feelings for William, but anything more was going to be up to them. "I'll understand if you want to stay here a little longer."

"But, I came here to visit you."

"True, but we won't be hurt if you want to stay here for a little while. I'm sure there are things you want to. . . sort out." She gave her niece a reassuring smile because of the doubtful expression on her face. "Besides, Mary will be coming home with us and it'll give us a chance to get to know her better. I had no idea she could be so good with the children."

Elizabeth smiled and kissed her aunt on the cheek. "Thank you."

Her aunt wished her goodnight and she caught up with Edward. He waved goodnight to Elizabeth and she watched them disappear into the darkness towards the cottage.

When Elizabeth walked back into the kitchen, she came in during the middle of a dispute with Richard and Mrs. Reynolds.

"What do you mean there's no more ice-cream?" He asked.

"I mean, there's none left. I used all of it on the first helpings. I thought there was more, but there's none."

"But. . ." Richard had the expression of a child who was denied their treat, "You can't have cobbler without ice-cream."

"I have a feeling someone's been snitching ice-cream behind my back." She gave William and Georgiana pointed looks.

Georgiana shook her head. "I didn't eat the whole thing."

"No, she only ate half." William said.

Mrs. Reynolds shook her head. "How many times do I have to tell you both? Ice-cream does not fix everything."

William gave Mrs. Reynolds a look of feigned horror. "How can you say that?"

Georgiana added, "Will, she's scaring me."

Everyone joined in with good natured laughing.

Mrs. Reynolds rolled her eyes and said, "I suppose there might be some in my secret hiding place."

"At the cottage?" William and Georgiana said at the same time.

Mrs. Reynolds opened and closed her mouth several times. It was a minute before she could say, "How long have you both known that?"

William sank into his seat. Georgiana said, "Since Christmas."

She shook her head. "You're both incorrigible." She saw Elizabeth standing at the door. "Oh, I thought you had returned to the cottage."

"No, I thought I'd have a little more dessert, but seeing as there's no more ice-cream, I might have to reconsider." She smiled.

"There's actually more in the cottage." She shot William and Georgiana a reproachful look. "If there's more, it would be in the cottage, but I don't think we should disturb the Gardiners for such a ridiculous reason."

Richard said, "It's unfair to punish the rest of us for their abnormal obsession for ice-cream."

"Hey." William's back straightened.

"You act like you didn't have any of that ice-cream." Georgiana said.

Mrs. Reynolds turned a critical eye at Richard.

He shifted in his spot. "I only had a little."

Georgiana rolled her eyes.

Elizabeth said, "I don't think it'll be a problem to get the ice-cream from the cottage. I can be in and out of there without disturbing them."

Everyone looked at Mrs. Reynolds for her approval and she hated to disappoint anyone. "Alright. But, please try not to disturb them. It would be silly to wake them up because Richard has to have ice-cream with his cobbler."

Elizabeth smiled. "I'll be back soon."

"I'll go with you." William followed her out the door.

She looked at him with a curious expression. "I know my way back."

"I know."

"Then. . ."

"I think it would be a nice walk."

She shrugged. "OK."

When Richard was sure Elizabeth and William were gone, he looked in the fridge. After a moment of searching, he said, "Ah-ha!"

"Where did you find that?" Mrs. Reynolds stared at the gallon of vanilla ice-cream on the counter.

"I have a secret hiding place too."

"Then why did you let Elizabeth-"

"Mrs. Reynolds," Richard scooped out some ice-cream and placed it on his cobbler, "I was only doing what William wanted."

"He told you to do that?"

"No, of course not. William would never ask for help."

Mrs. Reynolds looked at Richard and then at Georgiana who shrugged. She looked at the others who gave her bemused expressions. "Then why-how-"

"He was desperate to be alone with her." He spooned some cobbler and ice-cream into his mouth and savored it.

Charlotte said, "And how do you know that?"

"Because he knows of my secret hiding place too."

Mrs. Reynolds shook her head and proceeded to put on a pot of coffee. "This is going to be a long night."

William and Elizabeth strolled in the darkness, very aware of the physical presence of the other person. All evening they had been around other people and it was somewhat awkward to be suddenly alone with each other. At least, that's how Elizabeth felt. Never mind that just a few hours ago, she was trying to have her way with him under the infamous oak tree.

She cleared her throat. "It's really dark."

"Are you having trouble seeing?"

"No, not really."

He didn't say anything, but instead took a hold of her hand.

"I. . . I was just noticing that even though it's really dark, the sky and the stars are so clear."

"I think it's one of the best things about living here."

They walked the rest of the way in silence. Elizabeth was a little startled when he took her hand, but when she realized that he wasn't going to pull her into some wooded area and . . . why was she being so nervous? And when she thought about it a little more, Elizabeth was not opposed to the idea of being pulled into a shady corner with William. She shook her head. She had to gain control of her hormones.

"What's the matter?"

"What?"

"You were shaking your head."

"Oh. I. . . nothing's the matter."

"Are you sure?"

"Positive."

"It's just. . . you seem. . ."

They reached the front door of the cottage. "What?" She asked.

"I don't know. Distant?"

"I guess. . . I've been thinking about things."

"Like what?"

She shifted in her spot. How could she say that she was thinking about jumping his bones almost every minute, but that she respected him and his feelings too much to do anything to hurt him? How could she say that she did have feelings for him, but she didn't think they could ever measure up to what he felt for her? How could she tell him she didn't think she deserved him?

Elizabeth said, "I better get the ice-cream." She slipped inside the cottage and went to the kitchen. She made sure not to make any noise and opened the refrigerator with great care. It was empty. She was back outside in a matter of seconds.

"There's no ice-cream."

"That's too bad." William hesitated before he said, "I suppose you'll want to go to bed since you'll be leaving with the Gardiners early in the morning."

"Actually. . . my aunt said that if I wanted to, I could stay here a little longer."

"Really? How much longer?"

She shrugged. "Since Mary is going back with them, she said that I. . . if I wanted to, that I could stay as long as I wanted."

It took all of William's restraint not to pick her up and hold her in his arms. "How long do you want to stay here?"

"I wasn't sure if I was going to stay at all."

"Oh."

She could hear the disappointment in his voice. "Isn't everyone going back to LA anyway? They have to work."

"Yes, but I hadn't planned on going back right away."

"You didn't?"

"No."

"Oh."

He took her hand. "Come on, there's something I want you to see." He led her around the cottage.

"Is this your way of trying to convince me to stay?"

"Maybe."

They entered the courtyard behind the cottage. It looked different at night, bathed in the moonlight. Even though she couldn't see the fountain very well, she could still hear the water dappling on the stone fountain. They stood in front of a bench that was shaded by an arbor with wisteria.

"This place is beautiful at night." She said. Elizabeth continued to take in the sights of the flowers and shrubs. The white flowers gave off an iridescent glow in the moonlight. The shrubs, lush during the day, provided impenetrable screens that created a feeling of solitude. Something caught Elizabeth's eye, but it was gone in a second. She looked again and saw a flicker of light.

"What the hell was that?"

"What?"

She saw it again and this time stepped closer to William. "That! There's something out there."

William followed her line of vision and when he saw what she saw, he tried very hard not to laugh. "Those are just fireflies."

"Fireflies?"

"Haven't you seen fireflies before?"

"No."

"Well, come on, we'll have a closer look." He took her hand and pulled her towards the fireflies, but Elizabeth was rooted to her spot. "What's the matter?"

"I think I can enjoy them from here."

"You're not afraid are you?"

She straightened her back. "I'm sure they're harmless. It's just. . . I prefer to enjoy them from a safe distance."

"They won't hurt you."

Elizabeth still did not move.

"They don't bite."

Elizabeth was unwavered by his logical reasons, but when one lit up a foot away from her legs, she jumped right next to William and yelped.

He placed an arm around her shoulder. "I told you they won't hurt you."

"I know. I just. . . I believe you and I know you wouldn't lie, but I. . . me and bugs don't get along." She stepped back, pressing against William's chest. "Fleas and mosquitoes always find their way to me."

"Well, you have nothing to worry about here. Fireflies don't bite."

Suddenly, there were several fireflies blinking around them. Elizabeth couldn't bolt because William had placed a firm grip on her shoulder. He whispered, "Be still."

She had no problem doing that. When she saw William reach out for one of the fireflies, she grasped his arm, "Don't. You might get hurt."

"It's alright." He said in a gentle whisper.

Elizabeth watched and kept her hand on William's arm in case something went wrong. He was coaxing a firefly toward them.

"What are you doing?"

"Just be still." He put his other arm around her waist so she wouldn't bolt.

"William, don't." She could see a light blinking in his clasped hand while he drew it closer to them.

He held her tighter. "I promise I won't let anything happen to you."

Before she could say anything, William opened his hand and out fluttered the firefly. It was a foot away from her face and she jumped in her spot when it blinked at her.

William felt her hands tightened on his arm. "Just watch."

She did as she was told and when the firefly did not make any lunges or jumps towards her, her body relaxed. After a moment, Elizabeth became mesmerized by the blinking back and forth motion of the firefly.

When Elizabeth relaxed in his arms, he forgot about the firefly and focused his attention on her. He enjoyed holding her and being able to share new experiences with her.

When the firefly fluttered away from them, Elizabeth tried to see where it was going, but it disappeared into the darkness. Then she saw other blinking lights throughout the garden. She didn't know how she missed that before. "Thank you for showing this to me. I'm sorry I was such a wimp. I guess us city girls aren't cut out for this nature stuff."

"You could get used to it."

Elizabeth was so captivated by the firefly display that she did not realize how close she stood next to William. She became painfully aware of his smell and the warmth his body emanated.

He felt her body tense again. "Actually, I didn't bring you here to show you the fireflies." He placed one hand on her hip and faced her toward the northern part of the sky. With his other hand, he pointed to the sky. "Do you see those three stars? In a cluster?"

Elizabeth searched the sky and saw it. "Yes."

"That's Orion's belt." He proceeded to point out the other stars that made up his torso and the rest of his body. Then he pointed out the arms and how its right held up a lion's skin and the left held up his club.

Elizabeth studied the outline for a moment. It was such a clear night it was easy to see what William was talking about. Then she said, "You saw this on my chest?"

"Only part of the torso and his arms." He cleared his throat before he said, "The rest would be. . . on places I've never seen before."

He was still holding her, standing behind her. Elizabeth tried to concentrate on Orion, but she found it difficult because his mouth was next to her ear and he spoke in that low, gentle voice only meant for her to hear. She bit back her comment about giving him a look to see if she truly had the entire constellation of Orion on the rest of her body. Instead she said, "It's hard to believe you can see things like that on me."

"It shouldn't be. I always thought your body had a celestial quality to it."

This time Elizabeth laughed and turned to face him. "Now you're being ridiculous."

"Because I have a healthy appreciation for. . . your attributes?"

"You know, I should be offended that you can talk about my body so. . . nonchalantly. I should be offended that you see me as just an object to admire."

"I don't. I didn't mean to offend you."

"I said I should be offended, but. . . I'm not."

He wrinkled his brow. "You're not? You're not going to tell me that I'm a male chauvinist pig."

She laughed again. "Of course not." Elizabeth said, "You can imagine anything you want." She saw him struggling to say something. "Why don't we go back to the house before one of us says something they'll regret." She started walking out of the courtyard. "I'm sure Richard is waiting for his ice-cream."

He followed her out of the courtyard and they made their way back to the house. After a couple of minutes, William said, "Are we friends then?"

The question caused Elizabeth to stop in her place. "Friends?"

"Do you see me as just a friend?"

She studied his face in the moonlight. "I'd like to think we've become friends."

"Me too."

She continued walking. "Why are you asking?"

He shrugged and followed her. "I was just wondering."

"Wondering about what?"

"It's not clear what. . . we have."

They stopped a few feet away from the porch of the house. "That's true."

"I mean one minute we're talking and everything's fine and then the next. . . it's like a wall comes up and I feel. . ."

"I'm sorry. I don't mean to make you feel like that."

He took a step towards her. "Then why is it that every time it seems we're becoming closer, you pull away."

"What are you talking about?"

He reached for her face. "Sometimes I think you want me and then something happens and you. . . do you still dislike me?"

Elizabeth looked down, withdrawing her face from his hand. "It's just that at one time, the very thought of even kissing you, was like the equivalent of nails scratching on a chalk board."

"Oh." William walked away and sat on the bottom step of the porch. "A simple, 'I don't like kissing you' would've sufficed."

She sat next to him. "That's not what I meant. Things have changed so much between us since then that it's taking me some time to get used to it."

He didn't say anything.

"I'm sorry if that's not what you wanted to hear. I know we haven't always gotten along and that was because of me. It's just strange how things turned out. If someone told me a week ago, after I received your flowers and letter, that I'd be at Pemberley Vineyards star gazing with you, I wouldn't have believed it."

After several seconds, he said, "I guess I can see your point."

She continued, "I haven't done anything to deserve this."

He looked at her. "What do you mean?"

"I. . . this is just all so. . . good and I was so awful to you before and you've always been there, no matter what I said or did. I don't know how you tolerated me or how you still can."

He turned so he was facing her. "Elizabeth, whatever happened before is in the past. And you weren't as bad as you think."

"I was pretty obnoxious."

"No, you weren't." William held her hand. "I don't know how to make you understand that the reason I was attracted to you in the first place was because you weren't like any woman I've ever known."

Elizabeth sat in silence.

"Like that time we played football at Charles' house. I thought you wanted to play so you could have some excuse to. . . touch me."

"What?"

"At the time, I thought we were playing touch football and if Caroline could, I know she would've played."

She waited for him to explain.

"It's not unusual for women to find excuses to be near me," He saw her eyes simmering and plunged forward, "But, when you actually tackled me, I realized that you weren't like other women. It seemed like you really wanted to cause me bodily harm. That's never happened before."

"Well, I can't really deny that I did want to wipe the grass with your face."

"See! At the time, I had no idea why. And it made me wonder why you felt that way and the more I wondered. . . the more I wanted to know you. . . the more I. . ."

"So, you're saying it was a good thing that I hated you at first?"

"It probably was because if you hadn't, I wouldn't have been so attracted to you in the first place."

She shook her head. "That's really twisted."

"I know, but I wouldn't have it any other way."

Elizabeth looked into his hopeful eyes. "I've done nothing to deserve you."

"I could easily argue the same thing."

"No, you couldn't."

"I had such terrible thoughts of you as an assistant. I mean, it took me a long time to get over that which it shouldn't have."

"I tried to keep you in the suit category. I didn't think you could possibly be anything else."

They were both quiet for some time.

Then Elizabeth said, "I guess we've had our share of misunderstandings."

"Yeah. But, I don't think we should be dwelling on that anymore." She had a surprised look on her face. William continued, "Haven't we moved past it?"

"It's hard to forget."

"Of course, we can't forget about it. But, we can move on."

Elizabeth tugged at his hand. "Richard's probably wondering about the ice-cream." They stood up and walked on to the porch.

He pulled on her hand, holding her back. "You said at one time the very thought of kissing me was like nails being scratched on a chalk board."

Elizabeth winced at her words. "That was probably a bit dramatic."

"But, you said at one time." William stared at her. "At one time implies that at a specific time you felt that way."

Her brow wrinkled. "I suppose, but why are you-"

He stepped towards her. "You don't feel that way anymore."

"No, I don't."

"So, you're not repulsed when I kiss you."

"Why would you think that?"

He raked his fingers through his hair. "Each time I've kissed you, I thought you didn't like it when I did."

She creased her brow.

"Last night, when I. . . came to your room and. . . we. . . well, you told me never to do that again. Then this afternoon under the tree, when you kissed me, I thought you decided that. . . but, then afterwards you acted as if it was the biggest mistake you've ever made."

She shook her head. "I just didn't. . . last night, I wanted you stop because I thought you were trying to prove something. I don't know what, but I wanted you to want me because you did, not because you were trying to drive Tom Bertram out of my mind."

"Elizabeth-"

"Under the tree, I did make a mistake. I wasn't supposed to get caught up in my feelings for you." She gasped and covered her mouth.

"What did you say?"

"I. . . uh. . ."

"What feelings, Elizabeth? What do you mean?"

Elizabeth took a deep breath. "I didn't want to do anything that I was unsure of."

"You're unsure about me."

"No, it's not that. I'm unsure about me."

He looked at her with a bewildered expression.

She continued, "William, I want you so bad that sometimes when you talk to me, I don't even remember what you've said because I was thinking about having my mouth on yours." He stared at her with his mouth partly opened. "When I thought this afternoon was a dream, I was prepared to have you like I always do in my dreams."

William was too shocked for words.

"I just," Elizabeth continued, "I can't use you that way if I'm not even sure how I feel about you."

"Isn't it quite obvious?"

"That I want you? Absolutely. But-" His mouth was on hers before she could finish her sentence. He kissed her with a simmering passion. When he let her gasp for air, she managed to say, "Everyone's waiting inside the kitchen."

He kissed her again, but this time his arms wrapped around her and they stumbled away from the kitchen door. Between being held up against the wall by William and his mouth on hers, Elizabeth almost forgot what she was going to say.

"William."

He was too busy breathing kisses on her neck.

"I can't. . . we can't do this."

He stopped his actions long enough to look at her for a second. He was about to say something, but her lips and her unsteady breathing on his lips, soon drove away any reasonable thought.

Elizabeth braced herself on William's shoulders. He kissed her with one goal in mind which Elizabeth wanted him to achieve. She could no longer think or remember why she had been denying herself. She took hold of his face and matched William's ardor. It caught him by surprise and it caused them to stumble across the porch again, but this time it was William who was pinned against one of the posts that connected to the railing that encircled the porch.

William broke away from Elizabeth's kiss. "You've been holding out on me."

"You have no idea." She kissed him soundly on the lips.

He held her face in his hands. "I've been waiting for this to happen."

"Waiting for what?" Her brow wrinkled.

"For you to admit how you really feel."

"But," she took a step back, "I'm still not sure."

"Elizabeth, if this is uncertainty, I'm dying to see what happens when you think you know how you feel."

"I'm being serious." She saw a smile threatening to break across his lips. "I. . . I've never felt like this for anyone before."

He brushed away a strand of hair from her face. "Me either."

"But, you don't understand. I want more than just a physical relationship."

"Me too."

"But, all I think about is. . . you."

"My answers are becoming repetitive." He smiled.

She shook her head. "You don't understand."

He took her hands. "I completely understand."

"You do?"

"Elizabeth," he stroked her cheek with his thumb, "When I came to your room last night, it wasn't because I was trying to prove something."

She gave him a questioning look.

"I came to see you because I needed. . . I wanted you, Elizabeth. I couldn't stand the idea of you being with someone else."

"But, I told you-"

"I know. I couldn't help it. That's what happens when you're in love."

Elizabeth stared at him.

"What's the matter?"

"You. . . what did you say?"

"I said I couldn't help it."

"No, not that."

"That's what happens when you're in love."

"In love?"

"What did you think this was?"

"I thought. . . maybe it was just lust or attraction."

"Lust?" He laughed. "If it was just lust, I don't think you would've given Caroline a dressing down like you did this afternoon."

"You heard that?"

"Some of it."

She shifted in her spot. "I didn't know you were listening."

"Does it matter?"

"I guess not."

"Then why did you say those things."

"I don't know. I didn't want Caroline to think. . . She thinks you're something that can be won. That she can just manipulate her way into your life."

"And you don't agree with that?"

"Of course not! You're not some prize to be won. You're a person. You're the most generous and kind man I know. The woman who has earned your. . . love will be the luckiest person because I know. . . you don't just love anyone."

"Neither do you."

She opened and closed her mouth several times. William took her hands and brought her closer to him. He caressed her face before he gave her a long, gentle kiss.

When he parted from her, Elizabeth said, "I've been so stupid."

"Don't be so hard on yourself." He kissed her forehead.

She nestled her head on his shoulder and wrapped her arms around him. "You don't understand."

"I thought I just showed you I did." He chuckled.

Elizabeth placed a soft kiss on the hard line of his jaw and another below his ear. Then she placed a more firm kiss behind his ear.

William's arms found their way back around her. "Elizabeth?"

She reached up and tangled her fingers in his hair. "If I'd realized sooner that I was in love with you, we could've. . . had this conversation sooner." She kissed him to make her point.

When she pulled away, William said, "How many times do I have to tell you to stop dwelling on the past?"

She laughed. "It's a hard habit to break."

"Maybe I can break you of that habit."

She raised one of her eyebrows at him. "How do you intend to do that?"

His hands slid down, one on her waist, the other on the small of her back, and he drew her closer to him. "I have several ideas actually."

The mischievous smile on his face caused Elizabeth's temperature to rise. "If you're trying to intimidate me, it won't work."

"I know. And I'm not trying to intimidate you." He breathed a kiss behind her ear. Then he with a gentle tilt of her head, he breathed another kiss on her collarbone.

"Are you trying to seduce me?"

"Trying?" He gave her a slow, thorough kiss.

When Elizabeth had a chance to breathe, her voice was unsteady, "Did I say something wrong?"

"Sweetheart," he teased her with another kiss, "I haven't even started."

Mary was the first to retire since she had to be awake in time to leave with the Gardiners. Then Charles and Jane went up. Mrs. Reynolds and Robert Martin left the kitchen to make sure that the house was secure.

Richard, Charlotte, Georgiana, and Craig were the only ones left in the kitchen. Richard finished the last of his ice-cream and cobbler.

Craig said, "What do you think happened to. . . the ice-cream?"

Richard shrugged.

Georgiana said, "You don't think they're lost, do you?"

Richard chuckled. "Not lost in the vineyard."

Charlotte elbowed him. "They're probably sorting things out."

"Yeah." Richard said, "Let's call it that."

Charlotte rolled her eyes.

Craig said, "Georgie was telling me that those two had a tough time starting out."

Charlotte said, "They did, but I think things are looking up."

"They're perfect for each other. Once they admit that, I'm sure we'll soon be tired of seeing them give each other lovey-dovey eyes."

"They deserve it though." Georgiana said.

"Yeah, and we'll get it in spades. Just be patient."

Georgiana stood up. "Well, I'll leave the porch light on for them, just in case." She walked over to the light switch next to the door, but stopped at the window.

Craig said, "What's wrong, Georgie?"

She turned around and smiled. "I don't think we need to wait for them anymore."

"Aren't you going to turn on the porch light?"

Georgiana took Craig's hand. "They won't be needing it." She smiled at Richard and Charlotte. "Good night." Then they both left the kitchen.

Richard looked at Charlotte with a raised eyebrow and then at the window looking out onto the porch.

Charlotte grabbed his arm. "Don't even think about it."

"I wasn't going to do anything." He gave her a look of feigned innocence.

"Come on." She took his hand. "Let's go to bed." She led him out of the kitchen, but not before he turned off the kitchen lights. Charlotte heard him chuckling. "Why are you laughing?"

"I'm sure William is trying to figure out a way to sneak Elizabeth past us."

"How do you know she'll come up in the first place?"

"You're joking, right?"

"It's hard for me to believe that she could change her feelings in the span of a few hours, just like that. I mean, look how long it took her to admit that she wanted to see him."

He shook his head. "Have you forgotten how persuasive the men in my family can be?"

They stopped in front of the door to the bedroom they shared. "Actually, I think you'll have to remind me."

He grinned and led her through the door.

William noticed the lights in the kitchen had gone off a few minutes ago. "It looks like everyone's gone to sleep." He held her in his arms and kissed the top of her head.

"Really?"

"The lights are out in the kitchen."

She took a step back, releasing herself from his embrace. "I guess that's a signal for us to say good night."

"Elizabeth, we're not teenagers."

She blushed. "I know. I just. . ."

"We'll do whatever you want."

"What do you want to do?"

The smoldering look he gave her was enough of an answer.

He took her hand. "I can wait. You know I can."

"But. . . I want to. . ."

He straightened his back. "Yes?"

"I enjoyed last night and waking up with you, but I don't know if. . ."

"I enjoyed last night and this morning too."

"But. . ."

"But, what? Who says we can't. . . talk like we did last night."

That mischievous expression had returned on his face. Elizabeth knew she should have been concerned, but instead she was intrigued. "So, that's all we'll do. Talk?"

"Sure." He tugged at her hand and walked towards the kitchen door. When they walked inside, he closed and locked the door behind him.

"Why do I get the feeling you'll try to do more than just talk?"

"I promise we'll talk."

"You won't try to. . . harass me?"

"You think I'm capable of that?"

She arched an eyebrow at him. "I think you're capable of a lot of things."

They walked up the grand staircase towards his room. "You know I'd never do anything to hurt you."

"Of course not." She felt his hand on the small of her back. "I was talking about your wayward hands."

"Does it bother you when I touch you?" The color in her cheeks was answer enough. "Well, don't worry. I won't try to touch you." He muttered. "Not much."

"I heard that." They stopped in front of his bedroom door.

He hesitated before he opened the door. "Elizabeth, if you don't want to stay here with me tonight, I'll understand." He looked at her. "I've waited for you for six months and I can wait until you're ready. I don't want you to do anything you don't want to do." He took her hand. "Don't feel obligated to be with me just because I'm in love with you."

"I'm in love with you too."

He looked at her for a minute before he opened the door. He led her inside and shut it.

It was dark, but the moonlight shining through the sheer curtains lighted the room enough for her to see the dark wood that paneled the walls. Elizabeth looked around and saw a bed similar to the one in the cottage except this one was draped with deep blues and grays. She felt William standing behind her.

"What do you think?" He asked.

"It's very nice." Elizabeth walked over to the bed and stood in front of it for a moment before she sat down at the edge.

William had to curb his urge to run over to her side. He sat next to her. It was a moment before he said, "What do you want to talk about?"

She stared at him with an expression he didn't recognize.

"What's the matter?" He asked.

"I can't think of anything to say."

He squeezed her hand. "It's alright." She still wore that expression on her face he didn't understand. "What are you thinking about?"

"I don't have my nightgown."

"You can borrow my pajamas."

"What are you going to wear?"

"I have something to sleep in."

She nodded.

"Do you want to change right now?"

"Not yet." That expression returned to her face.

"You have that look on your face again."

"What look?"

"I don't know. You look like you're thinking about something. . . do you want to go back to the cottage?"

"No. I. . . I think I need to lie down."

"Alright." He stood up and pulled out some pillows. She rested her head on one and he on the other.

There wasn't anything on the ceiling. There was only the crown molding edging it. "You have a very nice room."

"Thank you."

It was quiet for a few seconds. Then Elizabeth said, "Are you asleep?"

"No."

"OK."

"Do you want to go to sleep now?"

"Not yet." She turned on her side. "Do you?"

"No, we can talk some more." He turned on his side too and they stared at each other for a minute.

"What if I kissed you?"

"What?" William asked.

"Never mind."

"No, I heard you." He held her arm so she couldn't turn away. "You asked me if you could kiss me."

"I shouldn't have."

"Why not?"

She was quiet for a long time.

"Elizabeth? I can still hear you breathing."

"I. . . I was thinking about kissing you."

Now he was quiet.

"William?" She felt him move closer to her.

"Why don't you?"

"Because it could lead to other things."

"Only if you want it to."

She sat up. "I. . ."

He sat up next to her and rubbed her back. After a moment, he was able to lay back down with her head resting on his chest. "Did I ever tell you about this room?"

"No."

"It used to be my parents' room." Her breathing was steady, so he continued, "I guess you could say it's the master suite." He went on to give the history of other rooms in the house.

When there was a pause, she kissed him.

He was still.

"William?"

"Yes."

"What's wrong?"

"You kissed me."

"You didn't like it." She shifted to move away from him, but he caught her.

"No, I didn't say that. It was just unexpected. You have a knack for kissing me when I least expect it."

She let herself be drawn back next to him.

He said, "If you kiss me again, it'll be different."

She hesitated before she kissed him again and this time he wrapped his arms around her and reciprocated the kiss. It was some time before Elizabeth parted from him. She rested her head on his chest.

"Uh. . . was there something else you wanted to talk about?" He asked.

She shrugged.

He brushed away her hair from her face. "Should I keep talking about the house?"

"Do you want to keep talking about the house?"

He lifted her up, put her on her back, and looked down at her. "Not if there's something else you were interested in."

She smiled.

He kissed her.

After a moment of exchanged kisses, William said, "Is this what you were thinking about earlier?"

She felt her cheeks burn. "Yes."

"Why didn't you say so?"

"How was I suppose to say that I wanted to make out with you when we decided we would just talk?"

He laughed.

"And you promised not to touch me too."

"I did."

"Maybe I should go back to the cottage."

"Why?"

"Because all of sudden I'm hoping we do what we said we wouldn't."

"You are?"

She sat up. "I should go back."

He held her hand. "I'd like you to stay."

"I want to stay too."

"Then stay." He took her in her arms and they laid back down on the bed. "Why don't we just try to get some sleep?"

"Sleep?"

"Yeah, I think so much has happened today that we just need to go to sleep."

"Oh."

After several minutes, when he thought Elizabeth had fallen asleep, he whispered, "I can't help what will happen in the morning."

Elizabeth smiled at his remark, but did not say anything. She fell asleep with a smile on her face, looking forward to what the morning and the future would bring.

Continued In Next Section