Beginning, Section II, Next Section
Chapter 12
"I wonder what's taking him so long." Elisa pondered out loud as she and Georgiana waited at the small café around the corner from Pemberley. Georgiana pretended not to hear her and instead fiddled with her straw.
"Is something wrong, Ana?" Elisa eyed her friend critically. "You seem awfully nervous."
"Nothing is wrong." Georgiana piped up. "I'm just hungry, that's all."
"Hmm..."
A waiter interrupted them before Elisa could attack with more questions. "Excuse me, but the gentleman at the next table was wondering if you would be needing this fourth chair?"
Before Elisa could answer in the negative, Georgiana cut in with a "yes". As the waiter left them, Elisa turned to her friend, surprised and confused.
"Ana?" She asked, almost accusingly. "Why do we need four chairs?"
"Because." Georgiana stated simply.
"Because why? Is someone else joining us besides Richard?"
When she didn't answer, Elisa continued to guess.
"Charles Bingley, perhaps?"
Silence.
"No wait... not, him. You didn't invite your brother, did you?"
Georgiana avoided her eyes.
"Georgiana Alecia Darcy, what do you think you're doing?"
"Nothing as bad as you're making it out to be. Yes, I did invite my brother to lunch. So what? I don't really understand why you're avoiding him..."
"Ana..." Elisa started, but was cut off by the jingling of the bell tied to the front door as someone came into the café. She didn't have to turn around to confirm that the one person she did not want to meet was standing there, looking as bewildered as she felt.
"What on earth is she doing here?" Darcy asked, a little too loudly.
Richard hushed him and pulled him towards the table where Elisa sat with her back to the door. Georgiana sat across from her, looking a little alarmed. When the pair reached the table, Richard stole the seat next Georgiana before Darcy had a chance to move for it. The only seat left was the one next to Elisa, which he sat in, although reluctantly.
"William, this is - "
"I know who it is." Darcy interrupted Richard. "Fancy meeting you again, Ms. Bennet."
"Mr. Darcy." Elisa acknowledged without lifting her eyes from the menu in her hands.
They sat in uncomfortable silence for several minutes before the waiter came by to take their orders. After they each ordered, they fell into another spell of quietness. It seemed the whole lunch was doomed to silence. Elisa was preoccupied in appearing indifferent to the fact that her mortal enemy was sitting next to her. Darcy was preoccupied in pretending not to care that the phantom of his dreams was sitting, alive and real, on his left. And Georgiana and Richard were both looking at each other, trying to figure out what to do next.
"If I may ask, why are you here, Ms. Bennet?" Darcy finally broke the silence.
"Are you questioning my right to be here, Mr. Darcy?" Elisa challenged quickly, although knowing full well what he meant.
Darcy fell back into silence. It wasn't that he didn't want to respond, it's that he didn't know how. It was disconcerting the way she turned his very innocent question into an attack on her person. It would probably be best to stay silent, he thought to himself.
"Elisa's my new personal assistant, William." Georgiana explained.
"Since when?" He asked.
"For almost two weeks now."
"I see." He stated simply. The waiter soon returned with their food. Thus, each of the four diners preoccupied themselves with eating, instead of uncomfortable conversation. It seemed a hopeless case, Georgiana thought to herself. But, to her dismay, Richard was already concocting another scheme to further his plan.
"I can't stand the man." Elisa repeated to herself quietly, over and over again as she paced the studio after lunch. Georgiana had left her alone for a while, saying she needed to talk privately with some people.
"I hate him, right?" She asked herself out loud.
For the first time in weeks, she couldn't answer confidently the affirmative to that question. She had hated him for firing her, for humiliating her at work, for humiliating her at the restaurant; but now that seemed so long ago, so far away - like a fuzzy dream that gently faded as the days wore on. At lunch he seemed so quiet, not openly mean, but maybe a little embarrassed. She didn't know what made her talk back to him so harshly; maybe it was his voice, his manner - something about him just didn't sit well with her. A part of her still wanted to hate him, to push him down and laugh at him; but another part, a secret part, wanted to thank him for firing her, for putting her out of her misery (she had hated Darcy's, anyway), for somehow creating circumstances that eventually led to her employment under Georgiana...
"Elisa?" A voice asked.
She turned around and found Janine standing at the door. It seemed almost like forever since they had last met, but it really wasn't more than a few days.
"Janine! I'm so glad you're here."
"I would have come up sooner, but Mr. Bingley keeps me so busy."
"Not too busy, I hope." Elisa smiled, knowingly.
Janine avoided asking her what she was thinking. Instead, she changed the subject. "I was wondering if you wanted to have dinner with me tonight. If you're free, that is."
"I would love to."
"Great. I'll meet you at your apartment at seven."
"Where are we going?"
"A little pizzeria on Bleeker. You'll love it."
Georgiana stood patiently in Richard's office, awaiting his imminent return. Seeing as he had no assistant or secretary - he didn't believe in keeping one - she wasn't absolutely sure if he had either gone off for the day or was just caught up with one of his employees. She sat down in his leather swivel chair and began hopelessly arranging his desk in some logical order. There were proof sheets everywhere, photo prints, graphical layouts, neon yellow post-its stuck on every square of white space and color-drawing pencils scattered across the smooth surface.
She smiled as she unearthed a recent photograph of Richard and Cybelle at an opening of an internet business he had helped promote a few months ago. They looked so happy together, so complete. I want that, she thought, and sighed.
"Mr. Fitzwilliam?" A young man poked his head into the open office. "Oh, I'm sorry. I thought Mr. Fitzwilliam was in here. Forgive my intrusion."
"He should be back soon. You're welcome to wait if you would like."
"No, that's okay. I'll check in later." He said.
"Alright then... Goodbye." She bid awkwardly. He sort of nodded and then disappeared behind the wall. Just about as she was going to give up on ever seeing Richard again that day, he showed up.
"Been waiting long, cousin?" Richard asked, cheerful.
"Yes. Where have you been?"
"I had some problems to work out with the printing company. Seems they can't ship the billboard prints until next week."
She instantaneously felt embarrassed for berating him. "Oh, I'm sorry."
"Quite alright; wasn't your fault." He smiled. "So, what did you need to see me about?"
"I wanted to speak to you about Elisa - "
"She hasn't been causing trouble, I hope." Richard joked.
"No, nothing like that. Stop playing." She chastised. "I'm being serious here. I don't think we should do this."
"Do what? We haven't been doing anything."
"We're setting them up, that's what. And Elisa doesn't seem too happy about it."
He looked up quickly. "You didn't tell her this, right?"
"No, but she's going to realize it eventually."
Richard approached his semi-organized desk, amused.
"You're a pig." Georgiana said playfully when she noticed he was looking at the piles upon his desk with a wry smile. "I tried organizing, but it didn't work out too well, as you can see."
"I appreciate the gesture, Ana. Thanks anyway."
He picked up the same framed picture she had been admiring only a few minutes ago. It seemed several minutes of silence before he spoke again. "Have a little faith in love." He said warmly, his eyes shining as he looked at the photo. She knew he was thinking about Cybelle. It wasn't fair; he was in love, so he could be optimistic about her brother's situation. But she wasn't in love, and it was hard for her to see the good in all this trouble.
"I'm beginning to wonder if I ever had any to begin with." She mumbled as she left him in his office to stare blissfully at his photograph.
Chapter 13
"You looked depressed." Bingley stated after carefully observing his friend for nearly quarter of an hour. He had noticed a change several weeks back, but at the time Charles didn't have the heart, or inclination, to mention it. But when Darcy returned from his lunch with his sister that afternoon, he seemed even more quiet than usual, if that was possible.
"I'm not depressed." Darcy replied gloomily. "I'm just thinking."
"About what?" Charles perked up, hoping that this would open a conversation where Darcy would finally share his troubles; he hated seeing his friend so unhappy.
"About a lot of things..."
Darcy threw down his papers, letting out an exasperated sigh. It wasn't working; he could not rid himself of the constant hold she seemed to have over him. Her words. Her eyes. It drove him nearly insane with all this contemplation, self-berating. And he couldn't even understand it. It didn't make sense why he was so intent to obsess over this one insignificant person. So she was Georgiana's new personal assistant. Big deal. So she hated him, even though her hate was ill founded. What did he care, right?
"I'm taking you out tonight." Bingley declared resolutely. "And I'm not taking 'no' for an answer. You will come with me. Period."
"Where to?" Darcy said in an uninterested tone. Although he really wasn't inclined to go anywhere with anyone that night, a small voice inside his head pleaded with him to reestablish contact with the human world once again - it just wasn't healthy, all this sitting home and moping around stuff.
"A little pizzeria someone told me about. You'll love it."
"Great" Darcy replied flatly.
"How come you knew about this place, and I've never even heard of it?"
Elisa and Janine settled into rustic looking wood booth, deep scratch lines upon its ancient surface. They had managed to squeeze into the oldest part of the establishment, where it was warm and golden, full of memories and old times. Somewhere, faintly, a jukebox was playing Sinatra. Elisa smiled as the waitress brought them their thin-crust pizza slices and glasses of coke. Something about the place made her feel so much better, able to forget all the troubles that had clouded her mind.
"I remember coming here when I visited the States a few years ago for vacation."
Elisa took a bite out of her slice. "This is so good. Well, there go my hips, and butt, and stomach..."
Janine laughed.
"If I have to go on diet after I balloon up fifty pounds, I'm taking you down with me!" Elisa joked, merrily. She was going to say something else when a familiar voice startled her back into reality. She turned to her right, and to her surprise, sitting only a few tables away were Charles Bingley and a very disgruntled William Darcy. Elisa quickly turned back around, hoping they hadn't seen her.
"What's wrong?" Janine asked, when Elisa went quiet.
"Look who's behind me." She whispered in a low voice. Janine tilted her head to the side, and when she spotted the pair, her eyes lit up.
"Ohmigod, it's Charles!"
"And look who's with him..."
"Mr. Darcy?" Janine guessed, for she could only see the back of his head.
"Yes. Why is does that man turn up everywhere I go?" Elisa huffed. "Wait a minute - when did 'Mr. Bingley' become just 'Charles'?"
Janine blushed. "You know what I meant."
Elisa forgot her momentary troubles, and pounced on this new revelation. "You're getting pretty chummy with him, aren't you? Come on, tell me the truth."
After a moment, Janine confided shyly. "I like him, and I think he likes me, too."
"Ooh, perfect!" Elisa exclaimed, a little too loudly. Several heads turned, including those of the ones that should not have known they were being talked about. Charles smiled and blushed when he saw Janine, waving his hand to bid them come join him and Darcy. Janine picked up her plate and glass automatically, readying to move tables when Elisa stopped her.
"Are you insane going over there?"
"What? He invited us, and I'm not going to pass this chance up. Come on, please..."
Elisa looked up into her friend's sad, pleading eyes. She assented, reluctantly, and followed her to the table. Janine took the seat next to Charles, leaving the only empty seat next to his friend. She tried to advert her eyes from Darcy, but eventually she had to look. He was looking at her intently, although still silent. For a moment, she allowed herself to ponder his face, which she had to admit was very handsome.
Wait, what am I thinking? Handsome? Shut up. Remember, you're supposed to hate him!
"Fancy meeting you here, Mr. Darcy." She said in the same tone he had greeted her at the café earlier that day.
"Ms. Bennet." But his eyes didn't lift from her face for at least several minutes. Elisa shifted a little nervously, edging away as far as possible on her seat without seeming too rude. It's not like he was intentionally making her anxious, but his stare was beginning to worry her. What did it mean?
"You know each other?" Bingley asked, surprised and pleased.
"She works for Georgiana." Darcy explained, taking a sip of his water.
"I know that. It's nice seeing you again, Elisa. I didn't know you were friends with Janine."
Elisa smiled warmly at Charles. She always felt at ease when he talked to her. Sometimes, when he made his usual rounds the offices, he would stop by Georgiana's floor to say hello and chat a bit. "Yes. Janine lives across the street from me. In fact, she's the one that took me to Pemberley that day when I got my job."
"How interesting." He turned back to Janine and grinned. They soon easily fell into private conversation, leaving Elisa and Darcy to sit silently on the other side of the table. Elisa wanted nothing more than to leave this embarrassing situation, but she didn't want to abandon Janine, who was shooting her looks every once in a while. And Darcy was just sitting there, wondering what he was supposed to do.
"I didn't fire you, you know." He said, suddenly.
Elisa stopped picking at her pepperonis. "What?"
"From Darcy's. It wasn't me, I didn't fire you."
"But your phone call! I was there." Elisa argued.
"I did call, but I did not tell Collins to fire you." He looked at her.
"I don't believe you..." Inside her, a fading hate began to slightly bubble.
"It's the truth, Ms. Bennet."
"Then why did you call?" Elisa asked, meekly.
"I told him to apologize to you... for me." Darcy choked quietly.
Elisa got up immediately, her hands shaking a little. "You're lying... You have to be." She left the pizzeria hurriedly. Janine, who noticed her friend's unusual departure, ran after her.
"What was that about?" Charles asked, confused.
Darcy looked a little shocked. "I'm not sure."
Chapter 14
"Are you alright? Stop walking so fast and talk to me. Elisa, please!" Janine called out.
But she did not stop nor walk any slower. Her friend tried frantically to catch up to her, but Elisa had already disappeared into a nearby subway station. As she settled on a relatively clean bench to wait for the next train, she took a moment to collect herself. Her hands were still shaking a little, her eyes on the verge of tears. And Elisa could not comprehend why she was getting so worked up about Darcy's admission. It shouldn't have bothered her this much, but for some reason, it had. And now she began to feel foolish and stupid for running out of the place like a madman.
What must he think of me? She wrapped her arms around herself, realizing that in her haste, she had left her winter coat on her chair back at the pizzeria. Shit. It was her favorite article of clothing, that winter coat; her father had given it to her right before she left for New York, saying that he thought she would need it since in California she never had use for one and didn't bring one with her. He was never a man of many words, so that gesture of kindness touched her so deeply, she almost cried thinking about it. I have to go back.
She got up from her bench and slowly made her back to the pizzeria. To her relief, she peeked into the window and saw that her dinner companions had already left. Elisa pushed open the door and went over to her table, looking for her coat.
"Excuse me." She got the attention on a nearby waiter. "Did you see me leave a coat here?"
"What does it look like?"
"Cream-colored. It's a merino wool and cashmere blend."
"Oh yes. I remember a man took it with him, saying he knew the owner."
"What did he look like?" Elisa prayed that Darcy hadn't taken it. It would be too humiliating.
"Tall man. Dark hair, dark eyes. Handsome."
"Oh no..." She mumbled, starting for the door.
"He was with a blonde man and a red-haired woman, if that helps." The waiter called out as Elisa went out the door, but she was too wrapped up in her thoughts to look back.
"Why does she keep doing that?" Darcy asked Charles, as they took a cab home. Both lived in nearby apartment buildings in the Upper West Side. In fact, Darcy owned his whole building, residing in the top penthouse suite with his sister, while renting out the other apartments to other wealthy individuals. His apartment, especially, had a fantastic view of Central Park, which is why he impulsively bought the building in the first place. It was probably the only impulsive thing he'd done to his record. For the most part, Darcy lived a very sedentary life - well, in his eyes. Running corporation after corporation didn't seemed too active a job; although he did discount the constant traveling from county to country part of his demanding lifestyle.
"Doing what?"
"Running away from me?" Darcy pouted in his own Darcy-esque way, which didn't allow for true pouting. What reason would he need to pout, anyway? He usually had things his way.
"I don't know, old man." Charles clapped him on the shoulder. "Perhaps she's still angry at you."
"But I didn't fire her. She knows that; I just told her."
"Forget the firing thing, I heard about the lunch fiasco from Richard." He shook his finger accusingly at Darcy. "And from what I already know and can tell about Elisa, she's not one for games and being played. You should have known that."
Darcy groaned loudly. Bingley just shook his head sadly, as if realizing for the first time his friend was not as faultless as he thought.
"Do you think she'll forgive me?" Darcy asked, although back in his mind he was wondering why he would care if she would forgive him or not. Somehow, it seemed to matter if she did.
"Perhaps. Just don't forget to return her coat."
They got out together in front of Darcy's apartment building. Charles bid him goodnight before walking down the block to his apartment around the corner. Darcy sighed, feeling a little guilty, and heaved himself into the building. A stodgy old man held the door opened for him, greeting him with a gruff sounding salutation. Darcy nodded his head briefly before heading for the elevators. He closed his eyes as the elevator ascended; for some reason, he hated going up on the elevator rather than the reverse. It just made him a little dizzy, and he wasn't that comfortable with small-enclosed spaces in the first place. The only reason he braved them in public was because he had a reputation to keep; it just wouldn't do if everyone at Pemberley thought he was afraid of a little, harmless elevator.
"Georgiana?" He called out immediately, as soon as the elevator opened up into his living room.
A faint pattering of feet could be heard coming from the other side of the apartment. Georgiana appeared, eventually, with a glass of club soda in her hands. "I'm making ice-cream sodas, if you want one."
"Sure." He unceremoniously dropped all his belongings onto the sofa before following his sister into the kitchen. Just for a while, he wanted to drown his problems in, if not alcohol - for he wasn't much of a heavy drinker, an ice-creamy stupor. It was the next best thing.
"You looked harassed. Did something happen tonight that I should know about?" Georgiana put a huge dollop of whip-cream in his glass for good measure.
"No, nothing." Darcy took the two glasses to the dining room table and set them up across from each other. Georgiana eyed her brother suspiciously as she sat down; he was fiddling with the gooey blob in his otherwise pinkish-clear soda. She immediately tuned into something was wrong, for Darcy was never one to play with his food, especially if that food was ice cream.
"You're lying."
"That's the second time someone has said that to me today. For god's sake, I'm not lying!" Darcy blew up, and rose from the table quickly, knocking over his dessert. She let out a surprised scream and ran to the kitchen for paper towels to mop up the mess threatening to spatter all over the ivory-white carpet.
"William!" She scolded as she scooped the watery blobs into a bowl. "What's the matter with you?!"
When he looked immediately sorry, that she softened her tone. "William, please speak to me. Tell me what's bothering you."
Darcy turned away and sat down on the sofa, trying to gather his wits.
"Elisabeth." He stated simply. "That is what is bothering me."
"How is she, of all people, bothering you?"
He placed his head in his hands, pitifully. "I can't get her out of my mind." He whispered so silently, that she wasn't sure if he had spoken at all. Darcy got up and walked to his room without another word. Georgiana looked at his retreating form, wondering if this is what Richard had planned on: an irrational and moody William Darcy.
"This is so not going to be good."
Chapter 15
However, due to some divine force, pure luck (or maybe flat out avoidance), Elisa and Darcy managed to stay out of each other's way for the next two weeks. And that was a pretty hard feat to manage considering they worked within one floor of each other. But somehow, no matter how many times Georgiana announced that she needed Elisa's assistance to deliver papers to the 25th floor, Elisa managed to trick her way out of it. She just didn't think she could handle seeing him again - and she wasn't sure why.
The last time they had any sort of contact was the day after the pizzeria encounter, when Darcy had left her coat, dry-cleaned and folded neatly, on her desk with a note. It had a brief message, stating simply: "I believe this belongs to you. I hope you find it in excellent condition." It wasn't even signed, which annoyed her because she knew he was the one that had returned it - she had seen him, from her hiding spot around the corner wall, enter Georgiana's office with it in his hands. Did he not want her to know that he was the one that had it?
Christmas was approaching in a matter of days. Fortunately for Elisa, she had completed all her holiday shopping the week before, and since she did not know a lot of people in the City, her gifts were few: some cards for parents and out-of-state relatives, a book of Wordsworth poetry for Georgiana (who professed love for his words), an excruciatingly expensive trinket from Tiffany's for Janine (who immediately fell in love with the store, but couldn't afford any of thousand dollar jewelry), a book on the photography of Walker Evans for Richard (who still had yet to visit the exhibit at the Metropolitan), and a leather-bound organizer for Charles (who was always forgetting his appointments).
She had considered buying something for Mr. Darcy, just because he was the brother of her boss/friend and it would be sort of rude if she didn't at least acknowledge his existence. But she didn't know what to buy him. She didn't know him well (or at all), so everything seemed either too personal, or too cold and formal - which wasn't her style. Elisa loved to shop for her friends because she always picked out something that she knew they would love and wouldn't return. But this elusive Mr. Darcy seemed much to complicated to shop for, so Elisa settled on nothing. It would probably be best if I avoid him, too, just in case he is expecting something, she thought to herself.
Soon Christmas Eve was upon them, and Georgiana had invited her to an informal get together at her apartment with a few friends from work. Elisa agreed with this plan, saying it would be lovely if she could finally introduce Janine to Georgiana. Plus, she didn't have any other plans, and Christmas alone, again, didn't seem too attractive. Georgiana was doubly pleased at the confirmations of Elisa and Janine (who sent her answer via Elisa), and promised them a wonderful time full of Christmas cheer.
"I'll see you later tonight, then." Georgiana said as she packed up purse at the end of the day.
Elisa was at her desk, still arranging papers. "Yes, definitely. Janine was wondering what she should wear. She's so excited about her first Christmas party in the US, it's not even funny. She wants to make a good impression."
"It's casual. Jeans and anything comfortable should be fine. I told everyone that it was just a friendly get together, so they shouldn't be wearing suits, unless they want to. But I highly doubt it." She smiled.
"I'll tell her that. Well, I'll see you tonight. Goodbye!" Elisa waved as her friend left the office. Just as about she was ready to leave for her own apartment uptown, Richard stopped by to wish her a Merry Christmas.
"You coming to Ana's party?" He asked cheerfully.
"Yes, you?"
"Of course. She'd have it in for me if I didn't go."
"Tried to con you way out of it, I see." Elisa smiled.
"No, honest... It's just that her parties can be a little... hoity-toity."
She looked at him, shocked. "Richard! How can you say that?"
He was greatly humored at her reaction. "Don't get me wrong: I love Ana to death. But her idea of fun is caviar, scented candles, and listening to Mozart; I think it was the private school girl upbringing that did her in. I mean, how can I 'get my groove on' listening to concertos. Believe me, it isn't doable."
Elisa laughed at his expression. "I hardly believe twenty-something's should be 'getting their groove on', much less you."
"I am twenty-six, thank you very much. I may be a little older than you, but I am hardly old!"
"Fine, I concede on that point. But I can't picture you break dancing to contemporary pop, if you want the truth."
"I don't break dance." He stuck out his tongue, and she had to laugh at his immaturity.
"I'm sure. You probably disco, right?" She poked fun at him.
"The 80's darling, if you remember them."
"Hardly." She smiled. "Say, why don't you bring some of your CDs and I'll bring some of mine, and let's see if we can't liven the party up a bit. Okay? Maybe you'll favor me a dance. We can 'get our groove on' together."
"Or 'bust a move'?" He added. "'Cut a rug'?"
Elisa broke out in giggles and nodded.
He smiled mischievously. "Sounds like a plan."
"I'll be on my way, sir, if you don't need me any longer tonight." Hannah stood at the edge of his desk, trying to get his attention. Darcy had been searching futilely for papers in his desk drawer that he had not heard her approach.
"Oh yes, but of course. I'm sorry to keep you so late."
"Quite alright. You have a Merry Christmas, sir."
"Merry Christmas to you, too, Hannah."
Just about as she was to leave, Darcy called out to her. "I'm sorry to detain you. I was just wondering if you had made that call I asked you earlier to make."
"Yes I did, sir."
"And what was his response?"
"He was a bit flustered, sir. But he said it would be an honor to meet you tonight at your apartment."
"Fantastic."
For the longest time, Darcy had been wondering why Elisa was fired from her job at Darcy's in the first place. He had been suffering waves of guilt, for whatever reason, and this night seemed ideal for a meeting with her manager. Perhaps it was that Christmas guilt/panic/depression that sometimes hit him around the holidays, for Darcy suddenly felt the need to get down to work and clear this Elisa business that had been clouding his senses for many weeks now. Maybe if he could learn the what's and wherefores, he'd be able to leave it behind him.
Not that that was sound reasoning, anyhow. He even admitted it to himself that he wasn't making sense, that this meeting was a fool's errand in every way possible. What did he mean to gain through this meeting? He wasn't sure. But maybe if he could convince (or force) Collins to apologize to Elisa, then he, William H. Darcy, would be finally acquitted of all charges of foul play in the firing scandal - which seemed to bother her more than what he deemed healthy.
By the time he got home, it was nearing nine o'clock. Georgiana was bustling about, excited. The living room was decorated in holly and ribbons, the fire filling every inch with warm light. The sofas had been pushed to the walls and there was a space in the center of the room for, what he could only suppose, dancing. The dining table was stocked with interesting looking (and obviously catered, since Georgiana couldn't cook to save her life) Christmas food: a roasted turkey, candied yams, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, etc. So it seemed, they were having a party. When Georgiana finally noticed her brother was home, he was helping himself to a little slice of pie.
"William! I didn't here you come in."
"Don't worry, I just got home. I didn't know we were having a party."
"You don't mind, do you?" She suddenly looked down, afraid he was going to be angry with her.
"Of course not. I think it's wonderful."
"It's our first Christmas in the States, since..." But she trailed off, wordlessly. It hadn't struck her that they hadn't celebrated Christmas in New York since their parents had died almost five years ago. It pained her to think about it, now. Usually they traveled to London for the holidays, where it was possible to avoid remembering with all the commotion and stress of traveling upon her mind.
"I know." He completed, his voice a little low. They stood in relative silence, brooding over the sudden dim on their sprits, when a loud buzzing came from the speaker next to the front door. Both startled, they jumped a little as the buzzing continued.
"Yes?" Georgiana pressed down the button on the speaker.
"Miss Darcy, there are several people down here coming to see you. Shall I let them up?"
"Please do, Geoffrey. And if anyone else comes asking for me, send them up as well."
"As you wish, miss."
Darcy had moved from the dining room into the kitchen, where he was fixing himself a drink.
"Who'd you invite?" He asked, casually.
"A few designers from work." She called back from the living room, where she was hastily re-arranging before the guests arrived.
He poked his head into the living room. "And?"
"Oh, the usual. Richard, Cybelle, Charles... You know."
A sudden thought came to his mind. "You did remember to invite Kingston and his daughter, right?"
She looked up alarmed. "No, I forgot. You don't think he'll be offended, will he?"
"If he gets wind that he wasn't invited, I'll never hear the end of it."
The elevator doors opened at that moment, and people began pouring out into their apartment. Georgiana hurried to greet them, chatting happily as she gathered their coats. Darcy turned to retrieve his drink before he went out to make his appearance known. However, soon as he entered the room, his eyes locked with an unsuspecting pair of female eyes. He hadn't expected her to be there, and by the look on her face, she hadn't expected him either. Suddenly his breath caught in his throat as she continued to stare at him, ponderously.
"Ms. Bennet! What a surprise."
Chapter 16
It was stupid of her to be startled by his presence, since he was Georgiana's brother and where else would he celebrate Christmas but with his family; but so it happened, she was. And he looked like he was startled, too. It took her a moment to find her voice, which had left her for a second.
"Mr. Darcy." She stated, feeling instantaneously idiotic.
"I didn't know you were coming."
She felt her temper rise slightly. "Georgiana invited me, if that is alright with you."
The hard look on her face caused him to retreat a little. Would she be forever angry with him? "Georgiana can invite who she wants. I have no control over it."
She stared him down for a few more minutes, and then left him when Richard arrived. When she departed to seek the company of his cousin, Darcy felt something in his heart give a wrenching beat. Why had he said that? It sounded like he tolerated her presence only because she was his sister's friend; when in truth, a small part of him would love to 'tolerate' her all the time. He didn't mean to sound so cold. What he wanted to convey was his pleasant surprise that she had come. Indeed he was caught off guard, but it didn't mean she was not welcome.
"Are you okay, Darce?" Charles greeted him with his usual smile.
"Quite fine, I assure you. Well, you seem particularly happy. Why is that?"
"It's Christmas Eve, my good man! Should I need any other reason to be happy?"
Darcy peered over his friend's shoulder to see a familiar looking redhead being introduced by Elisa to his sister. The thought hit him and everything clicked. He turned to Charles with a grin. "Why, I wouldn't have believed it until I saw it, but you, my dear friend, are in love!"
"I am not." Charles protested, although in obvious good humor. "I'm just..."
"In love." Darcy completed for him. "Charlie, Charlie, Charlie... I always pegged you for a blonde-man, but I must admit, she is quite a find. A strawberry-blonde, if you will."
Bingley gave in, and turned to gaze upon the woman Darcy was talking about. "She is beautiful, isn't she?"
"Yes, quite."
"I never met anyone so perfect. She's pretty, and funny... and so deliriously smart. Janine studied at Cambridge, you know." Charles prattled on happily.
"Really now? How nice."
But Darcy's attentions were elsewhere now, happily engaged in watching a certain lady banter playfully with her friends. He had to admit to himself that, no matter how much he would deny it, she was very beautiful, her eyes most especially. They were a certain hue he could not place; he wasn't sure if he had ever seen such a color before in his life. As he was contriving a way to describe them, the lady herself turned once again towards him, and he blushed faintly before looking the other way.
"Can you tell me, Georgiana, why your brother keeps staring at me?" Elisa asked her friend.
"Is he staring?" She asked, confused. When she looked over to her brother, he was not facing them. "Are you sure? He doesn't seem to be paying attention to us."
"I'm positive he was staring a minute ago. I can't see why, though, unless he means to see me uncomfortable. Well, I am determined not give him the pleasure of seeing me discomfited."
"I'm sure he doesn't mean to make you uneasy. I dare say, he's just curious." Janine supplied.
"Oh, you would think that, Janine. But I'll have you know he's been looking at me funny the moment we first met."
"You never did tell me what happened between you and my brother, Elisa." Georgiana prodded. "You seem awfully angry at him, and I don't understand why."
"He never told you what happened?" Elisa asked, surprised.
"No, never. I just assumed that he knew you from before and disliked you for whatever reason. But that cannot be the case, as you are too kind to be disliked, and have never been alone in his company for more than an hour. Unless you count that unfortunate restaurant incident from before I knew you. He wouldn't tell us what that was about, and still refuses to speak of it."
"The short version of it is this: he comes to the Darcy's where I used to work, he fires me, I come to Pemberley for retribution, I meet 'Will' who decides to help me, 'Will' turns out to be your brother, he plays me for a fool, I run out of the restaurant. Simple as that." Elisa explained. However, Georgiana and Janine (who already had heard the much longer version of the story) listened, a little confused. To them, the clear-minded, it didn't really seem like such a big deal. Hadn't Elisa gotten a job at Pemberley, anyway? And wasn't it a much more lucrative and enjoyable job at that? So what did she really have to complain about, anyway? The past was the past; she should let go of it.
But of course, Elisa was Elisa. So it wasn't as easy for her to forgive and forget.
"I see." Georgiana said after awhile. "Well, you know what you need?"
"What?" Elisa asked.
"Closure, that's what."
Elisa didn't know what she was talking about. "What do you mean?"
"The only reason you're letting this torture you is that you lack to will to let it go. I say, let bygones be bygones. It's Christmas, for god's sake! Drink, party, and be merry. It'll be a very sad time if you're going to be moping around, angry with my brother - who I'm sure had a perfectly reasonable reason why he did whatever he did or didn't do. And if you're not having a good time, then I won't be able to have a good time. Comprendo, mi amiga?" Georgiana gave her a sort of humorous-pleading smile. "So, can you at least forgive him is stupidity this night?"
Elisa was never one for arguing with her friends. "Fine. I'll try to be civil."
"That's my girl!" Janine piped up, happy that her friend was regaining some sense.
"And now for the closure bit." Georgiana took hold of Elisa's arm and began dragging her across the room.
"I thought that that was the closure bit. Where are you taking me?" Elisa followed, unsure of what was to happen.
"I must take you to my brother and insist he apologize for being mean to you."
"He hasn't been mean." Elisa began retracting, trying to struggle out of Georgiana's tight grip. "You can't seriously think I'm going to talk to him. I said I would be civil, but I'm not going out of my way to be polite to him."
"Oh shush." Georgiana said, as the pair arrived in front of a surprised looking William Darcy. "William, you've barely said peep to Elisa the whole party."
"I would remind you, dear sister, the party only started ten minutes ago." He appeared to be amused as Elisa continued to discreetly struggle out of Georgiana's grasp.
"William..." She whined, in way particular only to herself, used especially if she wanted something out of her brother.
"Oh, fine... I do remember trying to speak to her earlier, but she mistook my words." He turned to Elisa, feigning polite cheerfulness. "Merry Christmas, Ms. Bennet. Lovely party, isn't it? I do hope you're enjoying yourself." Darcy turned back to his sister. "Satisfied? Now, if you please..."
He left them and walked over to the dining table.
"Well, I never." Elisa grumbled.
"I'm sorry about that." Georgiana apologized. "He's in a bit of a mood."
"Whatever. It's no concern of mine, anyhow." Elisa returned to Janine, who had been watching the scene with amusement. "I am determined to have a great time, and I shall not care one straw if your brother wants me here, or not. So, let's have some music, shall we?"
She motioned to Richard, who had been engaged in a conversation with another partygoer while he waited for his girlfriend to appear. He approached, smiling.
"Have you got the goods, madam?" He asked, slyly.
"Of course. You?" She patted her purse.
He patted pocket. "Without fail. A spectacular mixed CD, if I do say so myself."
"What are you talking about?" Georgiana asked, intrigued.
Richard turned to her in full seriousness. "We're ditching the traditional carols this year, Ana, and trying out something completely different. Don't worry. Elisa and I have conferred upon the subject and we have decided to usurp musical duty tonight and be your personal DJs."
"But..." Georgiana started, but shut up when she realized she wanted to see what they were going to do. Elisa and Richard bounded over to the state-of-the-art stereo equipment at the other side of the room. She didn't know how to use most of the devices, save the six CD-changer, and Richard was just a clueless, but at least he knew where the power button was. Soon the room was filled with the music of what could only be Fleetwood Mac.
"What on earth is this?" Elisa asked.
"What do you mean?" He was dancing a little in one spot.
"How are you supposed to 'groove' to this?" She asked, though she could see potential in 'Second Hand News'. For some reason, she could not help bopping along with the drumbeats. He only smiled and offered her arm as the CD changed into a slow Celine Dion song.
"You're a surprise, Richard Fitzwilliam." She rested a head upon his shoulder.
For a fleeting second, Richard felt himself in danger of doing something he was going to regret. But as soon as the thought arose, he flushed it out of his mind. He loved Cybelle. Period. He wasn't sure if he was leading Elisa on, but he sure as hell didn't want to ruin their friendship. It was very special to him.
"I have a girlfriend." He whispered so that the other couples dancing nearby wouldn't hear.
She looked thoughtfully at him. "I know, silly... You didn't think - "
He breathed a sigh of relief. "I don't know what I was thinking. Forget it."
She stopped dancing and was looking at him with a humorous glint in her eyes. "Wait, you thought I was falling for you?"
Richard grinned, embarrassed.
"Me? Falling for you?" She burst out into laughter, which lasted longer than he deemed necessary and Richard was beginning to become offended.
"I'll have you know, madam, I am a very desirable man!" He feigned hurt.
"Desirable, I'm sure." She wiped away tears. "I'm sorry, Richard. It's just that, you're totally not my type. You're too much like me."
"And what is your type, then?" He asked, curious.
She shrugged, and pulled him back into their dance. "I don't know. Tall, dark, and handsome."
"Well then, of course I can see why you couldn't fall madly in love with me. I don't have dark features." He ran his hand through his light, chestnut brown hair, and laughed. "I'm sure if I dyed my hair and got contacts, then I would be your type, would I not?"
"Whatever you say." Elisa giggled as he twirled her around. He had been momentarily nervous and the prospect of playing with her heart, but when it was perfectly clear she had not been enchanted with him, Richard felt at ease. They were going to be greater friends than then already were, he could tell.
And maybe even related. Richard could not help but spy a tall, dark, and handsome individual standing in the corner of the room watching them dance with an almost jealous glint in his brown eyes.
Chapter 17
He could feel a heat running through him, a sort of burning sensation rising from the pit of his stomach to his face. He was fairly sure his cheeks were flushed, and turned away to focus his attention on something else. Someone else. Anybody else. His eyes fell upon his sister greeting someone who had just arrived to their apartment, a certain potbellied, greasy looking man that he had forgotten he was expecting. Darcy walked over to the door, hurriedly, intercepting the nosy fellow before he took in the scene.
"Merry Christmas, Mr. Darcy, sir!" Collins exclaimed, almost in mock salute.
"Collins." He muttered, whisking the man away from the partygoers and into his study down the hall. Pushing him into the room, Darcy closed the door behind him to drown out the festive music.
"Now I've asked you here to talk about something that occurred last month at your store, something that has distressed me greatly." Darcy started, directing him to sit down in a nearby chair. He enjoyed standing over him while he spoke, lording over the sniveling man - Darcy felt more in power when those below him stayed below. It had to do with distinction of rank, something Kingston had told him about.
"Oh yes, I know exactly what you are talking about." Collins piped up.
"Really? Do tell." Darcy stared at him.
"That unfortunate incident with Ms. Bennet; it has been plaguing my mind ever since. But let me assure you, sir that the problem has been dealt with directly. You shall hear no more disrespect out of her mouth!" He looked proud of himself.
"Collins." Darcy stated, his voice grave and deadly. "Did you fire Ms. Bennet?"
"To be sure." Collins looked stupidly. "Her insolence was too much to handle. She needed to be disciplined."
"Yes, but did you tell her that I ordered her dismissal?"
Suddenly, Collins paled and fidgeted nervously, as if he had been caught doing something he wasn't supposed to be doing. "Well, sir... I mean... I don't know..."
"Collins." Darcy nearly yelled, overpowering him with the mere inflection of his voice.
Collins looked like a deer caught in the headlights of an oncoming car. "Yes?" His voice wavered.
"Do you know I could have you sacked this instant for doing something so outrageous? You are standing on very thin ice, very thin. I think I shall start interviewing other candidates for your position as soon as possible. For you have shown me here a gross misuse and abuse of your power."
Collins cowered, looking near tears. "Oh, please sir! I never meant any harm!"
Darcy looked on, unmoved.
"I'll do anything. Please! Just tell me what to do." He got down on his knees, begging at Darcy's feet.
Darcy shook off Collins's hold of his legs, turning away. He was ashamed that a man could be so pathetic as to allow himself to act in such a low manner. It was bad enough Collins was a sycophantic toad, but to be a shameful beggar was even worse.
"Hold yourself together, man!"
"Oh, yes, sir." Collins stopped groveling for a moment.
Darcy was inspired; a perfect idea had popped into his head. "I will allow you to keep your job, on one condition."
"Yes?"
"You shall find Ms. Bennet and apologize to her, as well as explain that it was you and not I that fired her. Do you understand what I am saying? If you do not do this, then you can consider yourself sacked."
"Find, apologize, and explain. Yes, sir, I completely understand."
"Get up."
Darcy opened the door and walked back into the busy living room. The air was filled with music and the chattering of people's voices. He searched the room for Elisa, but he couldn't find her. His sister was helping serve food at the dining table. Charles was deep in conversation with Janine. Richard was dancing with his girlfriend. But Elisa was nowhere in sight.
Collins was right behind him, now pretending to be scared and sorry. How would Mr. Darcy ever know if he had really found and apologized to Elisabeth Bennet? He could just pretend that he had, and Mr. Darcy would never know the better of it.
"What the - " A voice exclaimed behind them.
Darcy whipped around and saw that the one person he was looking for had found him. "Ms. Bennet!"
"You invited him?" She was outraged. "Of all the things you could do..." She pushed past them and stalked off into the living room where the people whom she could tolerate were. Darcy watched her with surprise, and Collins looked right about stunned.
"No wait! Elisa." This time he followed her, not wanting her to get the wrong idea. He found her standing idly in the corner he had previously occupied, trying to look unconcerned. She ignored him completely as he tried to explain.
"Ms. Bennet." He called after her was she started moving towards the front door.
"I don't want to speak to you."
"Please, just wait a minute." He grabbed her arm and held her still. She glared at him, struggling to get away. "Come here, Collins."
Collins walked over slowly.
"Here's your chance." Darcy looked at him pointedly.
He cleared his throat and stared at Elisa. It was one thing to kiss Mr. Darcy's butt, but it was quite another to beg a lowly woman for her forgiveness. How humiliating! But one glance at Darcy's angry face, Collins - though much confused how Elisa had gotten there in the first place - felt compelled to do as he was told; he wanted his job, after all.
"Ms. Bennet... I must tell you that it was I that fired you, and not Mr. Darcy. He had nothing to do with it. I apologize for misrepresenting the reasons for your dismissal, and I hope you can clear all charges of wrongdoing by my illustrious employer."
She took a few moments to process the information. "You're the one that fired me?" She asked loudly.
"Yes..."
She lunged forward to tackle him, but was held back by a pair of strong arms. Darcy had instinctively reached out to contain her as she struggled against him. "Let me at him!" She screamed. "That odious little man! I'll have him know I can kick his a** right this minute! Look at him, he knows I can, too."
"This is hardly... the way... a mature adult acts!" Darcy grunted as she began hitting him to let her go. Collins back up against the wall, scared at her wild ravings.
"I don't care. Unhand me!"
"Only if you promise not to kill him, then I'll release you." Darcy bargained.
She sighed and stopped moving. "Fine."
He loosened his grip; Elisa wrenched herself from Darcy's arms and coolly walked away from the pair, only stopping to send a deadly look towards Collins from across the room, before disappearing. Darcy turned to Collins with a satisfied smile, and then proceeded to show the repulsive bugger out the door. He left with a scowl on his face as Darcy watched the elevator doors closed.
Now she's heard the truth from someone other than myself. She can't be angry with me anymore.
He felt that he had to find her, to confirm that she no longer felt an ill will towards his person. It was imperative that she did not hate him. He wasn't sure why, but something inside of him needed to have her approval, her assurances that he was no longer the heartless ogre she had once thought him. Darcy found her outside on the balcony, braving the near freezing temperatures in only a turtleneck and a pair of worn jeans. She appeared to be looking out into the distance, arms resting on the banister, but he saw that her eyes were closed, as if she were trying hard to hear something she could not discern. He was attempting an unnoticed approach, but was thwarted by his leg brushing up against a patio chair, causing the metal to scrape across the floor. Her eyes opened suddenly, and she looked up at him with a sort of embarrassed expression.
"I'm sorry to disturb you." He said.
"Oh, no." She avoided his eyes, and turned back to the twinkling lights out in the pitch-black darkness below them.
He coughed. "Do you want to return inside?"
"Is he still in there?"
"No, I threw him out."
"Then there's no reason for me to return." She said, without emotion.
He watched her as she continued staring into the chill night air. Afraid for her health, he took off his suit coat - which he was still wearing since he did not have time to change before the party started - and placed it around her shoulders. She was startled as she felt his hands upon her.
"It's getting cold." He whispered, and then left her side and went back into the living room. He had wanted to ask her so many things; most importantly if she hated him still, but in her eyes he could see that she didn't. She didn't have to say anything at all.
Elisa watched him leave, surprised at his kindness. As she turned back to the stars, she whispered a little prayer. "Forgive me for being so blind..."
Unnoticed by her, Richard and Georgiana were watching from the glass doors opening into the balcony. When Darcy had returned to the party, there was an obvious lift in his spirits. Richard even swore he saw a smile play upon his face.
"It's working." He whispered to his cousin. "They'll be in love in no time."
Chapter 18
After all the commotion and misunderstanding during Christmas, the confused feelings and reeling emotions, the procession into the New Year surprisingly went by uneventfully. Elisa and Janine stayed home and watched the ball drop in Time Square on the television. They could have very well gone out to watch it in person, since their apartments were about two blocks away, but neither of them had the inclination to trudge in the snow and below freezing temperatures just to see some spectacle that was not really worth the effort.
Before they had left the Christmas party, Elisa distributed her gifts to her friends. Georgiana and Richard were both pleased with their books, Janine loved the silver key ring (but seemed to love the robin-blue Tiffany's box even more than what it contained), and Charles thanked her kindly for the leather-bound organizer (which he promised to put into good use directly). They likewise gave her some things: a silk scarf designed for her by Georgiana, a zoom lens for her SLR camera (Richard had discovered their mutual love for photography, and promised her the latest equipment though she protested it was too expensive), a beautiful Italian music box from Janine, and a set of earrings set with tiny topaz stones from Charles (who loved showering gifts on all his friends, because he loved it when they were happy). Elisa was so overwhelmed with their kindness and love, that she scarcely could thank them enough for being so thoughtful.
But when it came time to face Mr. Darcy, her hands we empty. And she could not have felt more ashamed or embarrassed. For that night, he had given her one of the best presents in a lifetime.
"I'm sorry, I don't have anything for you...I wasn't sure what you would have liked." She mumbled, trying not to meet his eyes.
"Oh, it's fine; please don't think that I expected something." His voice was warm now, not cold and distant.
"No...I mean, I had not...I mean, thank you." She stumbled upon her words.
"For what?"
Elisa forced herself to look up at him, into those deep and brooding eyes of his that seemed to see right through her. "For inviting Collins tonight. For putting up with my misdirected anger and showing me the truth when I least wanted to see it...for not being the person I thought you were." She blushed.
Darcy smiled full, and her cheeks turned pink. "And what kind of person did you think I was?" But he was jesting, of course, and not at all serious. She would have been mortified if she had told him what she thought of him, but in reality, he didn't care any more. It was all in the past and everything was forgotten.
"Truce, then." He offered her his hand.
She looked doubtfully, but finally put her hand in his. "Truce. And Merry Christmas."
"Merry Christmas... Elisa."
And she didn't even correct him.
"Rachel! For god's sake turn down that music!" A voice hollered across the room.
"You call that music?" Another voice quipped loudly, almost drowned out by the cheerful pop.
A girl poked her head out of one of the many design studios and yelled back that Georgiana gave her permission to listen to "whatever damn music" she wanted to as long as she was working on her charity submission. Suddenly there was a mad rush to claim the remaining empty studios and soon the air was filled not only with contemporary pop, but also with raucous punk rock (courtesy of José), as well as the strains of violins and cellos. Fortunately for Georgiana, she was downstairs visiting with Elisa and Richard in his office. They could hear faintly the arguing and loud music, but chose to ignore it. Georgiana, who knew her design team better than anyone else, knew that when left to themselves to deal with problems and stress of working under deadline, their sometimes-fuming aggression led to creative heights the world had never dreamed of. She, herself, was feeling a little anxious of the impending showcase, but tried to clear her mind of it. And spending time with her friends and family did just that.
But the feeling of calm was only temporary. By the week of the highly publicized event, Georgiana was steeped in the excitement and pressure of being at her best, focusing on finishing touches, and maintaining cooperation between her designers - who were to the point of betting which one of their designs would raise the most money for the Pediatric AIDS foundation. Two days before the fundraiser, Georgiana and Elisa were chatting quietly in Richard's empty office. She had invited (more or less begged) Elisa to attend with her because she had bought four tickets - plus, she needed the moral support.
It was almost like being back at her first exhibition of her Añya line, a mere two years ago, when the ins and outs of the business she did not know and her brother was the only one who believed in her, backing her up when no one else would. It was ludicrous that a mere twenty-year-old chit of a girl could do well in such a demanding world, but she had succeeded. Darcy had supported her not just because she was his sister, but also because he knew she was talented and he was bolstered by his then three-year success as CEO of Pemberley, Inc. Two years later, after millions of dollars and multiple inspired expansions, Pemberley was prospering and Añya was among its most successful departments.
"So, you are free then?" Georgiana was still goading Elisa on. "Please, come."
"But I wouldn't know how to act..."
Elisa, though she loved Georgiana like a sister, was reluctant to be included in the pompous display of the entertainment fashion world. Although at the beginning of her employment, she had agreed to attend all functions and galas as Georgiana's right-hand-woman, Elisa was loath to participate in the froth and frivolity of the shows. She was never one for fashion, being neither fashion savant nor hideous fashion mistake, but a perfect blend of both and was distinctly her own style. But now after several months in Georgiana's company, her taste had broadened as she was exposed more and more to lines of the likes of Armani and Versace.
However, she refused to be dolled up.
"What do you mean? Just act like you always act. You're usually perfectly civil."
"Thanks." Elisa half-smiled at Georgiana's attempt at sarcasm. "I would consider going, maybe, if I had anything to wear to such a fancy event. But since I am absolutely sure I have nothing, I must decline..."
"If clothes is all you lack, then, worry no more!" Georgiana exclaimed, smiling. "I had your measurements taken when you started working, remember? So I have something for you to wear."
"Drat." Elisa was all smiles, though, because a small part of her was curious as to what would happen at the show. "Fine, if I must, I must." She threw her hand to her forehead in mock distress that caused Georgiana to burst into giggles.
"Coming Saturday?" Richard popped his head into Darcy's office.
Darcy looked up from his computer, where he had been checking the progress of some of his stocks. Usually he hated being interrupted, but since the holidays, he had been in a particularly good mood that nothing seemed to bother him.
"The thing with Ana?"
"Yeah. She has four tickets to the fundraiser."
Darcy got up and stretched his arms. "It depends... who's going?"
"It was going to be you, me, and Cybelle; but Belle's in Los Angeles right now." Richard was intentionally vague, hoping Darcy would take the bait.
Darcy paused a few moments in his stretch, before asking as indifferently as he could what he really wanted to know.
"So... who's taking her place?"
Richard smiled to himself. "I think she asked one of her friends."
"Which one?"
He chuckled a little. "I think it was Elisa."
"Really?" Darcy attempted to hide the excitement in his voice. "What did she say?"
"Seems like it's a go."
"Fantastic." Darcy said, more to himself than Richard. He drifted a little into his own thoughts, almost forgetting Richard was waiting for his confirmation.
"Your status, Darce?"
"Positive."
"Great. I'll tell Georgiana."
Darcy sat back down in his swivel chair, pretending to concentrate on his work. Richard, getting the not-so-subtle-hint, left his cousin to ponder whatever he was set on pondering. As soon as he exited his cousin's office, Richard could hear Darcy scrambling to the phone to make preparations for what sounded like his tuxedo and flowers.
Hook, line, and sink 'er, baby...
Chapter 19
By now, after trying to convince himself that the attraction was mere fancy, Darcy had concluded that something was certainly different about this. He was never one to fall easily in and out of affection, so this uneasy feeling struck him soundly to the core like nothing had before. Maybe it was... no. He couldn't even fathom it now. For the moment, he would just live and experience it, without trying to analyze it into oblivion, until it had lost all passion and became only something finished on his to-do checklist in life.
Saturday came soon enough, but Darcy had not returned home since Friday night. Richard had invited him to stay at his Park Avenue apartment in order to afford Georgiana some privacy - for she was always a little jittery before shows, even ones that were supposed to be for fun - and for another reason he had failed to mention: Elisabeth was going to sleep over that night at Darcy and Georgiana's apartment. Georgiana had thought the scheme up perfectly, and begged him to somehow keep her brother away from the apartment until the night of the show when they were suppose to pick her up. Richard was all for it, and was happy that it didn't take much convincing on Darcy's part.
Darcy, oblivious to the scheme, went right along with it without knowing he was being set up. For had he known, he would have certainly been affronted. No matter how well he thought of Elisa, the fact that his cousin and sister had to go to such lengths to sway his and her emotions would have mortified him to no end. The truth was, he was still a proud man, confident that if he really wanted something, he would get it. The fact of the matter being, he was still unsure of what he wanted. So everything was left as it was. And he was happy like that.
Well, for the time being.
"Would you hurry up? We're going to be late." Darcy yelled at Richard, who was still in the bathroom.
"No we're not. We still have fifteen minutes." Richard yelled back, running his comb through his styled hair. Darcy popped his head into the bathroom and watched as his cousin continued to primp himself.
"I swear, you take so much time getting ready, you're practically a woman!" Darcy said, impatiently.
Richard took a leisurely time spraying on cologne, taking far more time than necessary in order to irritate him all the more. Darcy, realizing he was being teased, took this all in good humor. Within ten minutes, both men were settling comfortably in typical Saturday traffic - where everyone else was rushing here and there for weekend entertainment - hoping that they would reach the West End with enough time to spare.
With him, Darcy carried a large bouquet - to be presented to Ana after the show - and a small box; which Richard could only guess, by the way it squeaked, was one of those clear plastic cases for corsages from the florist, because Darcy kept the box hidden under his coat.
What a silly dolt! Richard thought to himself, amused. He's already in so deep, and he doesn't even know it!
Elisa, upon agreeing to spend the night at Georgiana's apartment for reasons being it would be beneficial to both if they helped each other prepare for the evening and that both felt the need for some good, old-fashion female bonding between friends, was slightly disappointed that Georgiana's brother was not going to be home that night. But she took it all in stride, her face never betraying her feelings, for she was surprised at herself that she had even cared whether or not he was going to be there. What did it matter if he was going to be home or not? It didn't.
However, since the holidays, and the semi-reconciliation with Darcy, Elisa had found herself wondering more and more about this mysterious man. True, since they were not on the out and outs with each other any longer, they had been thrown into company more frequently that usual; but even though they had met several times, she still felt that she knew him no more than when she had first met him - sans the now decidedly forgotten coffee shop incident. This puzzled her completely, for Georgiana seemed to talk about her brother all the time, and Elisa didn't seem to mind.
And, luckily for the scheming cousins, Elisa was still clueless as to the apparent set up. She hadn't even dared ask who else was to attend the fundraiser with them.
"It fits you beautifully." Georgiana breathed quietly. "Oh, Elisa, don't you look gorgeous!"
Elisa stared nervously at her reflection. The dress was perfect. The make-up was perfect. Even the jewelry - borrowed from Georgiana - was perfect. And still, Elisa could not stop fidgeting.
"My hips look a little big..." She muttered, but caught herself with a smile. "Oh lord, I'm starting to sound like one of those people that obsess about their body! Slap me if I start asking you if I look fat."
Georgiana grinned at her friend.
"I'll never be as beautiful as you though, Georgiana." Elisa turned to admire Georgiana's ensemble, which consisted of a very simple fitted azure empire-waist coat over black slacks and a black sequined top. She looked every inch the trendy New Yorker. Elisa was a little envious of her nearly pencil-thin slimness and barely there chest (due to genes, not eating disorders, mind you) - the sort of body models would die to have - for Elisa, though nowhere near fat or even pudgy, had been conscious of her curves since the sixth grade. But Georgiana never made a big fuss about her own good looks, and though being more beautiful than she realized, desired nothing more than to hide in her office and design her clothes while others stood in the spotlight wearing them.
"I am nothing of the sort, Elisa." She stuck out her tongue. "Otherwise, guys would be hanging around me like moths to a flame. And as you can see, there are none here."
"Oh Ana..."
"You are quite lovely, as you are well aware. You'll outshine them all, I daresay!" She clapped her hands happily.
Elisa rolled her eyes.
The door buzzed promptly at 7 pm. Georgiana called down that they would be there in a few minutes.
"Ready?" She asked Elisa, who was still pulling at her dress.
"As I'll ever be. I've never been to something like this. What if I commit some faux pas? Oh, I dread being laughed at."
Georgiana smiled encouragingly. "You'll be fine; stop worrying. And for my sake, stop fidgeting. You're making me more nervous than I already am!"
"Sorry." Elisa looked sheepishly at Georgiana, as the entered the elevator and descended to the ground. One floor from the first level, Georgiana suddenly stopped the elevator and pushed Elisa out.
"What are you doing?" Elisa asked, bewildered.
"Let me go down first, in the elevator. Wait about two minutes, and then go down the staircase." Her idea was inspired.
"What on earth for?"
"You need to make an entrance, of course." Georgiana said matter-of-factly.
"Why?" Elisa was still confused. "Who's down there to make the entrance for? Stan the doorman?"
"No, silly. Our escorts for the night." Georgiana tried to close the door, but Elisa stuck in her arm before the elevator could descend.
She had feared to ask the question, but now it seemed imperative that she knew. "Who are our escorts, if you don't me asking? You're being very secretive about this..."
"Oh, it's no secret, Elisa. Just come down in two minutes, okay? Don't ask questions, just do it."
Georgiana managed to slip away this time, but she could hear Elisa banging on the closed elevator doors. Oh, I hope she comes down like I asked her to... The reason for this sudden idea was that the grand staircase on the first floor would offset Elisa's dress beautifully. It sounded a little like sentimental drivel, but being the lover of cheesy romances that she was, Georgiana knew that if Elisa made a dramatic entrance, William would have to take notice and fall instantly in love with her, like all the men did in those movies she watched and novels she read.
The door opened and she was greeted with the smiling countenances of Richard and Darcy, both dressed to the nines in sleek tuxes and crisp white shirts.
"Ana! Finally! We were wondering what happened to you." Richard grinned knowingly. "Isn't Elisa with you?"
"Elisa's here?" Darcy asked, stupidly.
"Of course. She stayed the night, while you were at Richard's." Georgiana faced her brother, who was wearing an unintelligible expression.
"Then where is - "
But he went silent as his eyes caught a magnificent sight coming down the staircase. He was almost too shocked to breathe, for the beauty that assaulted his senses nearly left him reeling. He never thought he would be susceptible to stunned silence, but there he was: mouth agape, eyes staring, and nary a word to pass his lips nor an intelligent thought to cross his mind.
She was a vision. Her silky dark hair pulled back in glossy ringlets, framing her face perfectly. Her dress was a nude colored silk - looking positively tan against her un-California-like pale ivory skin - with a loose halter-style bodice and a flowing, gathered skirt. The only adornment was a thin lariat gold-chain belt around her waist and gold hoop earrings. Her skin was smooth and clear, so exquisite looking that he found himself suppressing the urge to take her in his arms.
Elisa blushed when she saw him, and then continued to color when he did not stop staring. The way his eyes held hers made her uneasy, for she noticed that he had an uncanny ability to stir up feelings inside her she had long since felt the need to feel.
And for that one brief moment, all time seemed to still to a complete stop.
Chapter 20
"Who knew you could clean up so well?" Richard finally spoke.
Georgiana beamed; this was, after all, her successful contribution to the "plan".
Darcy coughed, averting his eyes to something less captivating.
"Yes... wow... you look so..." He muttered, waving his hands as if to fill in the missing adjectives that he was not yet able to come up with. For some reason, his mind had drawn a total blank as to how to conduct a proper conversation.
"Radiant!" Richard supplied, taking pity on his tongue-tied cousin. "Come, our limousine awaits."
After Elisa's coat was retrieved from the closet behind the front desk, the foursome piled into the vehicle as gracefully as they could, and within ten minutes they arrived at the Four Seasons Hotel where the fundraiser was going to be held. Georgiana impulsively grabbed Elisa's arm tightly as a flashes began popping from the cameramen waiting near the doorway, and the two hurriedly went in together than way, with Richard and Darcy following behind, trying to look as indifferent as possible. Elisa could see that her friend was nervous, and tried to calm her down as they passed through the lobby into the large ballroom.
"Ooh, isn't this place magnificent..." Elisa tried to divert Georgiana's attention. "I've never seen a runway in person before; I've seen them on TV, though. Imagine, real live models!"
Georgiana nodded, but her grip did not lessen.
"Breathe, for god's sake. I've never seen you so nervous!" Elisa began to worry.
She was surprised when Darcy came up behind them, and gently peeled his sister's hand from her arm and placed in his. He walked a little ways away from Elisa and Richard, who had just caught up, and was saying something to Georgiana, but Elisa couldn't make out his words. She looked at Richard for some sort of explanation, but he didn't notice her. A few minutes passed before Darcy returned with a much calmer Georgiana by his side.
"Sorry..." She whispered, as she hooked her arm in Elisa's, and began taking her around the room. "Sometimes I get panic attacks before shows. I let myself get too nervous, and then I start to freak out. But thank god for William; he always knows what to say... I don't know what I'd do without him."
Elisa didn't know how to respond, so she remained silent. They checked in their coats, and resumed their little tour around the ballroom. The room, like the lobby, was designed by the renowned architect genius I.M. Pei; the ambiance was strangely warm and inviting, with sharp geometric designs in neutral cream and honey tones. A stage was set up on the far side of the room, with the catwalk running down the center of the room, nearly splitting it in half. On the very left were long tables with what looked like papers and pens. Nearer to the stage and surrounding the runway were many tables draped in fine white linen, set with beautiful crystal and silver and large bouquet centerpieces. Finally, the very right of the room was reserved for a dance floor, with a small four-string quartet quietly tuning their instruments.
As more people arrived, filling the room with joyous and excited chatter, Georgiana and Elisa walked over to two large tables toped with cards marked "Reserved for Añya"; by far, they were the largest group of designers invited to the fundraiser. The 11 other members of the design team, as well as Richard and Darcy, were already seated. As they approached, each man stood up politely, and pulled out their chairs. Georgiana sat next to Elisa, with Richard on her left and Darcy to Elisa's right. From their table, they had an excellent view of the stage and runway. Soon the lights dimmed, and as everyone else found their tables, a man appeared on stage wearing a microphone headset.
"Everyone, please be seated. Welcome to the 5th Annual Pediatric AIDS Foundation Fashion Show. This year we are pleased to be holding this event in the majestic Four Seasons Hotel. This is the perfect setting for this wonderful show in support of a wonderful cause."
Everyone clapped.
"We are please this year to welcome seasoned designers of the Houses of Versace, Armani, Gucci, and Valentino, etc. As well as this year's new sensation, the only group to have their whole team invited back, from the House of Darcy, Añya!"
Loud applause followed.
"Please sit back and enjoy the show. The showcase will last for approximately forty-five minutes to an hour, followed by dinner and dancing. Please make your bids at the auction tables to your left. And be as generous as you can, for this year we expect to break the million-dollar mark! Have fun, and safe bidding!"
The place broke out in excited applause, but soon everyone settled down as the house lights turn off and the twinkling lights handing over the catwalk lit up brilliantly. Soothing jazzy music started to come from the stereo speakers as models made their way down the runaway. A voice came over the sound system announcing the name of the designer of each outfit as the models made their obligatory five-second pause at the end of the runway. A soft murmur started after Vera Wang's submission - a clean line evening gown of plum tulle silk with delicate glass beadwork - and escalated greatly as the showcase was nearing the end. A cheer came out every once in a while from the Añya table as the designers recognized their submission coming down the catwalk.
When it seemed like the last model had departed, the MC reappeared on stage.
"And our very last submission, by special request, please give a round of applause for Georgiana Darcy of Añya!"
Georgiana stood up, and the crowds clapped loudly as the spotlight hit her. She put on a game face and confidently strolled up to the stage, much to the surprise of her family and friends. As she took a microphone from the man on stage, the audience hushed to listen to what she had to say.
"Thank you, everyone... For months I have worked on my contribution for this wonderful event. Like you, I have struggled and toiled on this as I would for any one of my season line shows... I know the standard for people in our business is to produce the finest looking fashions and present them on even finer looking models... But tonight, I have done something I would never have thought I would do..."
The people gasped in anticipation. Georgiana gulped a little as she paused to catch her breath.
"Until I met this person, I never knew what true beauty and friendship could be found in everyday, down-to-earth people... Instead of incorporating the typical tall and lithe model, I have tailored and custom-fitted my design for my friend... who looks nothing less than stunning in it... Please welcome my friend, Elisabeth Bennet!"
The audience roared appreciatively. Elisa, who had been pondering Georgiana's departure to the stage, had heard only her last lines. Confused and bewildered, the spotlight suddenly found her in the crowd, shining full in her face.
"What is it?" She turned to Richard. "Why is everyone staring at me?"
Richard laughed. "I can't believe it... Georgiana, the rascal!"
"What?"
"You're wearing her dress; the one for auction!"
She instinctively crossed her arms across her chest, suddenly feeling like she was naked under the piercing eyes of the public. "What the devil is going on?" She asked, trying to shield her eyes from the light.
"That means, get on stage, Elisa." A voice to her right said close to her ear, nearly scaring her out of her wits.
Elisa turned and found Darcy looking at her, smiling lightly. She had almost forgotten she was sitting next to him through the show, for the pitch darkness had hidden everything but the models from view. He slowly placed his hand upon her arm and pulled her up from her seat, then gently pushed her in the direction of the stage. She knew not how she managed to climb the steps, but in seconds she found herself standing next to a beaming Georgiana. After what seemed like endless cheering, the lights turned back on and the MC returned to the stage announcing that the bidding was now open, dinner and dancing was to begin, and there were free drinks at the bar.
Returning to their table, being pulled by Georgiana, Elisa sat dazed in her chair.
"Bravo, Georgiana! What a wonderful design and the perfect person to wear it!" One of the designers cooed.
"I agree. Three cheers!" Another designed piped up.
"Thank you, thank you." Georgiana accepted the praise joyfully. "But the credit goes to Elisa, for she was the prefect inspiration for this dress, and the perfect model... Why Elisa, you look near shock. Are you okay?"
"What do you mean having me wear you dress?... Are you insane?"
"No... You aren't mad at me, are you? When I designed the dress, I could not think of anyone else that would look perfect in it, as you do... You are angry, aren't you?"
Elisa, who still had a somewhat shocked expression on her face, tried to calm her features. In that brief span of time of about two minutes, she had been nothing but purely surprised; surprised that Georgiana had made the dress of her, surprised that her dress was the one that had the honor of being put on auction, surprised that Georgiana called her up on stage, surprised that... Mr. Darcy was looking at her with such hard intensity, she almost lost her train of thought... Oh yes, she was surprised. But most of all, when the feeling sank in, Elisa was touched at the underlying reason Georgiana did all this for her: Elisa was her friend, maybe one of her best friends in a long time, and this is what friends did for each other... made them feel special.
Of course, it wasn't the only reason Georgiana did this for her; but Elisa didn't know that.
"Angry at you? Impossible." Elisa gave Georgiana a reassuring hug. "I was just so... stunned, that's all."
Before Georgiana could reply back, the wait staff surrounded their table like vultures and began passing out the plates and plates of food - which consisted of lobster bisque, stuffed artichokes, and Capelli d'Anegli in a white wine clam sauce, among other dishes. Soon all need for heartfelt words was eclipsed by hungry mouths and meaningless idle chatter. And for that moment, Elisa could not have wished to be anywhere else... Richard, the always-dashing charmer, entertained them with a story about his childhood adventures with both his "dear, dear cousins" - both who cringed at his embarrassing anecdotes. Georgiana regaled her team of designers with eagerly awaited praise and criticism, which they took very seriously for they highly respect the opinion of their friend and boss. In turn, the designers, each forgetting the tension and bickering pre-show, unanimously agreed Georgiana's design would be the biggest hit that night.
The only person that did not seem to speak was Mr. Darcy. After dinner, he politely excused himself, and disappeared into the masses. Elisa, being much to caught up in her newfound celebrity - people kept stopping her to admire the dress - took no further notice of him, until he found her on the dance floor, swaying gently to the music.
"Good evening, Elisa."
"Good evening, Mr. Darcy... Wonderful party, is it not?"
"Yes... It's been quite interesting."
"I agree."
Then the conversation lulled, both unsure of the proper way to conduct conversation between two people who had called truce after an embarrassing misunderstanding, and decided to be, if anything, friends. But this being one of the few times they had ever been in company after the truce was called, they both felt like they had some work to do if they were to remain civil.
"Would to care to dance?" Darcy asked, finally.
Her eyes lit up, and he was glad he had asked. "I would be delighted."
As he slipped his arm around her waist and held her hand in his to lead her across the floor, he could not help but feel a slight tingling throughout his body, like every atom was yearning to be set free of its molecular bonds. The warmth of her body against his surprised him undoubtedly, for he was really never one for dancing, and when he did (on rare occasion) it was invariably with Caroline Bingley or someone as cold and frigid as she was.
The music was beautifully slow, allowing Darcy to calm recollect his scattered thoughts as he held her in his arms.
"You're a wonderful dancer." Elisa said, as he took her into a twirl.
"Thanks." Darcy blushed slightly. "Cotillion classes."
She looked up at him, incredulously. "You took cotillion?" She laughed.
"What?" He felt a little annoyed, though not averse to hearing her musical laughter, even if it was at his expense.
"It just seems so... girly. Not that I'm saying you're a girl."
"Of course, I comprehend fully. But I must defend myself in saying that I did go against my free will. It was my mother's doing, mostly."
"Oh, I see. Well, at least the lessons did not go to waste."
The music ended, and Darcy led her off the floor into the company of his sister and cousin, who were speaking in low voices. They turned to Darcy and Elisa with looks like they had been caught doing something they weren't suppose to be doing, but swiftly transformed into inviting and cheerful faces. Darcy bowed politely, and excused himself again to leave. He did not reappear until the end of the night, with an unusual happy bounce in his step.
As the fundraiser came to close, the MC returned on stage for the final results of the auction.
"May I have you attention, please?"
Everyone became silent.
"This night, we have seen many creative and gorgeous designs. And we have also seen overwhelming support for our cause. That is why, with great pleasure, the Pediatric AIDS Foundation announces that this year, we have surpassed the one million dollar mark!"
The applause was almost deafening.
"Also, congratulations to the House of Darcy and Añya! Their twelve designers, in total, raised nearly one-third of the money; with Georgiana Darcy in the lead - her design raising 250,000 dollars!"
There was a collective gasp, Georgiana included.
"Who won it?" Someone shouted from the audience.
"Anonymous bidder, madam!" The MC shouted back, playfully.
"Then how do you know you'll ever see the money?" Someone else asked.
"You can count on it; the Foundation is resourceful in finding out bidders!"
Everyone, being in excellent spirits - due to excitement and a brutally first-rate hotel bar - took the gibe without cause to think it bad-mannered.
"Please drive safely, take care, and thank you for your support at this year's Pediatric AIDS Foundation Fashion Show! And we hope to see you again next year!"
Richard found Elisa, wearing her coat, standing near the door waiting for them. Darcy and Georgiana soon arrived, and they set off for home.
"50th and 8th, if you don't mind Davis." Elisa leaned over to the driver.
"Of course, miss." He replied.
"You're not staying tonight?" Georgiana asked, surprised but not miffed.
"No... I fear if I stay much longer, I'll over stay my welcome." She smiled.
"You're welcome to stay. Don't leave on my account." Darcy put in. Elisa looked at him, studied his face for a few seconds, before deciding that her first resolution was the correct one.
"Oh, no. It's just that my apartment is closer than yours. And I've been meaning to catch up on some things before Monday... You don't mind, do you Georgiana?"
"Of course not. I'll bring your things to work."
"Great."
They pulled up to her place, and Darcy shifted aside to allow her to exit. After their goodbyes and well wishes, the limousine and its occupants were ready to return home. Elisa tapped on the window at the last minute, remembering that she was still wearing the dress.
"What do I do about this?" She pointed to her ensemble.
"Bring it Monday." Georgiana said.
"Such a shame I can't keep it." Elisa sighed, blissfully stroking the silk.
"I didn't anticipate you'd get that attached to it. Don't fret, I can make you another!"
"Don't worry about it, Ana." Elisa said, when she noticed her friend's concerned expression. "Well, good night everyone."
The limousine rode off, and Elisa waited until she could no longer see it before entering her building and climbing the stairs to her apartment. As she set her purse and keys on the table, she let out a half-scream of bottled up excitement that she maintained to keep relatively subdued throughout the evening. But, being ultimately exhausted, she carelessly changed into her comfortable pajamas and slipped into bed.
Her thoughts wandered, as she found herself imagining a thirteen-year-old William Darcy learning how to waltz and foxtrot. That thought was immensely amusing.
The last thing on her mind was a faint remembrance of how handsome he had looked that night... in his tuxedo... smiling at her in his strange way...