Previous Section, Section II
Chapter 9: An Invitation
As Elizabeth drove home from La Irisis, she tried to choke back the sob that threatened to break through but could not keep the tears from falling freely down her cheeks. While her main focus was to get herself home, she was also silently cursing herself for still being afraid. It has been over six years; you should be over this by now. A perfectly respectable gentleman asked to take you out. Why should it be so hard to say yes?
As tempted as she was to accept Darcy's invitation, her underlying fear kept her from doing so. Part of her wanted to tell him why she couldn't accept, but she dreaded the pitying looks and the apologizing that always came when she told someone she was close too. After watching him on the balcony, and then meeting him on the interstate, Elizabeth felt an undeniable connection with him. True, that connection had been threatened with Darcy's thoughtless comment before dinner. However, over the course of the evening, she had come to understand him a little differently. He was no longer just a fantasy figure from her dreams. Now, he was a real person, with intelligence and a real personality. And she found herself more drawn to him than she ever had been.
As Elizabeth pulled into her drive, she slowly shook herself out of her reverie. She wandered through the house, preparing for bed, and wondered what the next day would bring. Although she wanted to see William, she wasn't sure if she was ready to face him. As she slipped between the cool sheets, she told herself that she would avoid him tomorrow and throughout the weekend. But first thing Monday morning, she would try to seek him out.
Darcy was stunned by Elizabeth's reaction to his request for a date. He was sure that she had forgiven him for his rude comment, but he could not shake the fear he thought he saw in her eyes. He felt as though the life had been sucked out of him as he watched her drive away. Wanting nothing more than to take her in his arms and soothe whatever had happened in the past, Darcy had to restrain himself from following her.
As he walked into his suite for the night, he made a resolution. He was willing to do whatever it took to get close to Elizabeth. During the past week, he had become so entranced by her very presence that the few times he had been physically close to her, he felt his chest tighten with emotion and a physical need to be near her would take over. That night, sitting close to her, basking in her very essence was enough to drive him over the edge. He would wait her out, and stay in Meryton, North Carolina for as long as took to do so. He glanced at his watch; it was only 11p.m. He knew he would have wait until the morning to start making plans to stay in Meryton. Not knowing how long he was going to be located there, Darcy decided to inform his secretary that night, so that in the morning she would get the message as to what he needed to be done. He made a list of all the people he would need to contact, and made a special note to call Senator Rossemmee in the morning as well. While Darcy didn't mind staying in his hotel, he knew he would need a car for the time being.
The next day, Elizabeth made good on her promise to herself and avoided Monument Circle on her way to work. She tried not to think about him during the morning, yet despite her best intentions, he always seemed to lurk there in the deep recesses of her mind, continually popping up during the worst possible moments: during her morning staff meeting; her phone call with the senator; and most embarrassingly, during a presentation to the North Carolina United Auto Workers, where Darcy's face was so vividly conjured in her mind that she struggled to keep her composure. Elizabeth had reached her wit's end by lunchtime. Maybe if I just go grab lunch and come right back, I could concentrate better. Shoot, I'll have to go through the circle. Well, I won't even look to see if William is there. I will completely ignore him and pretend that I have other things on my mind. Yes, that's a great idea. She grabbed her wallet and headed to her favorite outdoor café. Once she reached the circle, Elizabeth forced herself not to look up to the balcony of the hotel. Desperate to keep Darcy out of her mind, she trained her eyes forward, and focused only on where she was going. After getting her lunch, she turned to leave the café. Momentarily distracted by yet another thought of him, Elizabeth let her eyes fall upon the dark haired gentleman watching her from the balcony of his hotel suite.
Darcy's heart skipped a beat when she finally looked his way. He had been up early that morning making the appropriate phone calls to enact the plan that he formulated the previous night. Hoping to see Elizabeth on her way to work, Darcy had spent all morning and afternoon out on the balcony. He had been disappointed but not surprised when she didn't pass by that morning. He had feared that she would avoid him after the incident at restaurant. Darcy had felt his fears all but confirmed when she went for lunch, but refused to look at him. When she finally looked up to him, he realized intuitively she was just as drawn to him as he was to her. Darcy smiled inwardly at that thought as she quickly broke eye contact and rushed back to her office building.
For the first time Darcy looked up to see the name of the building she was entering. The large red letters screamed back at him, D.C.Y. BANK. Darcy wanted to laugh and kick himself at the same time. Why hadn't I noticed that before? Well, that will certainly make contact with her much more easy. Darcy chuckled as he called his office back in New York. He received all of the arrangements that his assistant, Elaine, had made for the rest of his trip. He would be staying in the same hotel suite, but per his instructions, an entire multi-media center would be set up so he could be in constant contact with everyone involved in Darcy Enterprises.
Finally he received the call on which he had been waiting, Senator Rossemmee. "Good afternoon, sir. How have you and the family been?" While Darcy halfheartedly listened to the senator's responses, he calculated how hard it would be to get himself invited to an event at which Elizabeth would be in attendance. Darcy was a campaign donor, but he knew the lines between the campaign office and the elected office were not to be crossed. Darcy had to play a careful game, but it turned out easier than expected.
During the course of the conversation, Senator Rossemmee told Darcy that his Small Business Fair was in need of a major financial backer. He needed someone who was willing to participate in discussions on how to finance small businesses, but also someone who was willing to underwrite the costs for this seminar, as it wasn't something the senator's office could afford. Darcy's parents had been good friends with the senator, and the friendship extended to their son as well. He had always been more than generous in campaign donations, and was known as a supporter of small business, despite all evidence to the contrary. Senator Rossemmee assured Darcy, that he was the perfect financial backer for his project, and then invited him to a meeting in his office the next day.
Darcy was thrilled with how easy it was to be invited into the senator's office. He knew that in order to get close to Elizabeth, he would have to somehow be invited into the senator's office. My plan is already in motion! The first thing Monday morning he would be in the office attending the same meeting as Elizabeth. As he ended his call, Darcy quickly went into business mode. His weekend was going to have to be filled with work if he wanted to have any time with Elizabeth.
Both Elizabeth and Darcy spent their weekend in quite solitude. When Elizabeth wasn't working, she spent her time out in her small flower garden preparing it for the summer. She planted a blend of pansies, daisies, morning glories, and sweet williams. The solitary reflection allowed her to relax for the hectic week she had been through, and rejuvenate for the upcoming week.
Darcy had been just as productive, his assistant arranged for him to pick up his black Aston Martin at the imported car dealership, and pleased with its performance, he opted to take it on a long drive into the countryside. Yet, with every bend and twist of the road his mind dwelled more and more on Elizabeth. He dearly wished that she were with him on the drive. Slowly, he let himself become lost in the image of her riding next to him, her long, shimmering dark hair blowing in the wind, but with dark sunglasses that would cover the sparks in her eyes when she talked. He could almost hear her laughter as they would pick up speed before they went over a hill in the road. Initially, they would have conversation; they would regale each other with childhood tales. Yet, as their time together progressed, they would fall into a comfortable, companionable silence, where she would lay her head on his shoulder and softly intertwine her fingers with his. As his fantasies drifted off with the sun, he decided it was time to head back to the place he would call home for the next several weeks.
He slowly made progress on the pile of work that Elaine had sent to him. His biggest problem was concentration. He couldn't think because his mind wanted only to focus on Elizabeth. As he drank the last of his brandy, Darcy watched the Sunday sun set over the city's horizon. Tomorrow I will see her again. Tomorrow I will show her that I'm different from everyone else. Tomorrow, I will start to show her how much I like her. Darcy sighed and looked back at his desk that was still covered in papers and files rapidly losing Elaine's organization. I have to succeed with Elizabeth; otherwise I will never get any work done.
Elizabeth walked to work that morning, and was thoroughly disappointed not to see Darcy on his balcony waiting for her. Feeling guilty for purposefully avoiding him on Friday, she had again resolved to seek him out. She wasn't sure she was comfortable going on a date with him, but she couldn't deny she felt drawn to him in the most peculiar way. She sighed as she hit the button on the elevator. Maybe I deserve to be forgotten by him. I mean, I did ignore him on Friday, and then when we did make eye contact, I chose not to acknowledge him. It is my own fault. Maybe he has gone back home.
As Elizabeth walked through the glass entryway of Senator Rossemmee's office, all of the females were gathered around the front desk gossiping. Her secretary, Kristin, noticed her first. "Elizabeth! You will never guess what happened!"
"I guess not! What has everyone so excited?" Elizabeth couldn't imagine what would cause such a commotion in the office; it was only the beginning of the workweek.
"Senator Rossemmee came in this morning," commented Monica, who was clearly eager to share what she knew. "He was with the best looking man I have ever seen."
"Wait! Did you say the senator was in town? He wasn't supposed to be in until next Monday!" Elizabeth was frantic; she knew that the senator was going to be in town next week to have a meeting about his small business fair; she couldn't imagine what would bring him in early.
Kristin gently shook her head and started to walk Elizabeth to her office where she could have some privacy. "No, Elizabeth. Your meeting with him is this Monday, today. It starts in ten minutes. I was a little worried that you might be late. Do you need anything? Notes? Coffee?"
All wistfulness about missing Darcy on the balcony flew out the window. Elizabeth snapped into business mode. She and Kristin quickly finished the briefing books that she needed for the meeting and rushed to the senator's office. Outside his office, she smoothed down her suit, and grabbed her notes from Kristin. "Tell me everything about him when you get done," Kristin whispered to her as she opened the door.
As Elizabeth walked though the door, she was met with five different pairs of eyes. Yet despite the relative crowd in the office, the eyes that caught and held her attention were a pair of dark chocolate ones that seemed to sparkle and smile just for her. For a split second, Elizabeth could swear that the only people in the room were she and the owner of those eyes. Blinking hard to force her attention back to the business at hand, she quickly greeted the rest of the group and addressed Senator Rossemmee, "I hope I have not missed anything."
"No, we were catching up. Elizabeth, I want to introduce you to William Darcy. William, this is my press secretary, Elizabeth Bennet. William has agreed to be our financial backer for the Small Business Fairs."
Darcy was caught by surprise when Elizabeth had entered the room. She looked as lovely as usual, but seeing her in her work environment made her look dazzling. When she walked into the room, she immediately seemed to take charge. He could almost sense the amount of respect and esteem she received from her coworkers. Her whole aura had seemed to change from the scared girl from Friday night, to the commanding woman before him. He couldn't take his eyes off of her. When he heard himself being introduced to Elizabeth, he smiled and briefly chuckled under his breath. "Yes, Elizabeth and I have met before. It is wonderful to see you again, Elizabeth."
Elizabeth smiled at Will, but she knew now was not the time to be caught up in his attentions. She had a job to perform for the senator and she quickly forced herself to take on a more business-like demeanor for the rest of the meeting. However, the senator had one more surprise in store for her: "Elizabeth, as you probably realize, Mr. Darcy is the President and CEO of D.C.Y. Banks. He is not only going to underwrite the events, he is also willing to provide planning and financing for the small business owners who attend the events."
Elizabeth stared in shock at Darcy; she hadn't realized who he was until that moment. She had thought that he looked vaguely familiar, but had not been able to place him. Sitting in front of me is one of the most powerful men in the country, if not the world! She had been asked out on a date with him, and unbelievably, she had rejected him. To make matters more absurd, now she dreamed about him. Yet, all of this time she never who he was. The rest of the meeting was a complete daze for Elizabeth. Her mind was too full of what she had just discovered. When they concluded, she quickly rose, grabbed her things, and went to her office.
As she sat down at her desk, she instructed Kristin not to disturb her unless it was an emergency. She booted up her computer and quickly went to Google on the Internet. Elizabeth stared at the screen for what seemed like an eternity until she finally entered the name "William Darcy" into the search engine. Quickly, over 3 million web-site hits popped up. She clicked on the first one that led her to a quick biographical sketch.
"William Darcy, born to the late George and Anne Darcy, is the current President and CEO of Darcy Enterprises, which consists largely of banking and pharmaceutical interests. Owning well over 50% of the company's stock, Darcy is well known for his sharp business acumen and capitalizing on strategic corporate opportunities. Currently, Darcy Enterprises is focused on an international expansion of D.C.Y. Banks. A major subsidiary, Fitz Pharmaceuticals (NYSE: FitzP), has announced that they will unveil a new breast cancer drug this summer, pending approval by the FDA, which is expected to triple the stock value of FitzP."
Elizabeth felt herself start to shake by the end of the article. She didn't know whether to laugh or cry. The biography itself did not necessarily change him, just her perception of him. Gone was the idea of someone she could relate too. He was more than that. He seemed out of her league. She didn't even know how she could face him, let alone talk to him now that she knew who he really was.
Darcy knocked on Elizabeth's office door and walked in after he heard a soft "enter" from within. As he walked in and closed the door, he took in the view that was framed by Elizabeth's windows. On either side of the office were two large bookcases filled with different books, binders, files, and other random papers and pictures. He noticed several portraits, which Darcy assumed were friends and family of Elizabeth's. Out her window was a breathtaking view of Meryton and the surrounding area and on the opposite wall was a large framed poster of the Washington, D.C. skyline. Her large cherry desk sat in the room, with two large navy leather chairs and a television in front of it. She looked up from her computer. "Why didn't you tell me who you were?"
Looking at her, he saw the hurt in her eyes. She felt deceived. She had pointedly asked what he did for a living at dinner on Thursday night, and he had purposefully evaded her questions. Frustrated, Darcy ran his hand through his hair, and unceremoniously dropped himself into one of the chairs in front of her desk. "Because I enjoyed having dinner with someone who wasn't caught up with who I am or what company I own."
Meeting his eyes, Elizabeth could see he was telling her the truth. Deep down, she understood his need for privacy in his life. It couldn't be easy living in the fishbowl of a high profile life such as his. However, she still felt betrayed by the lack of information. "I understand that, but why didn't you say something when I asked you directly?"
"Are you sure it wouldn't have affected you? Can you honestly say that if I had told you who I am, you wouldn't have felt differently? You would have thought I was an arrogant, egotistical jerk, and that I was boasting about my position and success."
Elizabeth blushed and looked away. He was right and she knew it. After his comments at the beginning of dinner, she would have thought nothing but the worst of him. Elizabeth sighed and looked Darcy in the eye, "You're right; I'm sorry to say I probably would have jumped to that conclusion."
Darcy smiled. "I'm sorry I misled you and you found out the way you did. Let me make it up to you."
Elizabeth, disarmed by the emotions just his smile was producing, asked how he intended to do so.
"Have lunch with me. I'm tired of eating alone on my balcony, and I would very much appreciate your company."
Elizabeth looked hard at him. He seemed sincere, but at the same time, she wouldn't be able to bring herself to go if he was going to interpret it as a date. She wasn't ready for that just yet. "I thought I told you, Mr. Darcy, that I cannot date you."
"Good, because this wouldn't be a date."
Shocked, Elizabeth replied quicker than she had planned, "It wouldn't be?"
"No, I am asking you to lunch as your new friend, one of the few I have in Meryton, I might add."
Laughing at his logic, Elizabeth unconsciously slipped her suit coat off, grabbed her purse, and followed Darcy out of the door. As they walked out of the office and to the elevator, neither noticed how every eye in the office followed them out.
Chapter 10: An Unexpected Intrusion
Elated that Elizabeth agreed to have lunch with him, Darcy was nervous that her co-workers' natural curiosity would make her skittish. He pushed the elevator call button twice, eager to be away from the prying eyes of her fellow employees. Not wanting to allow a pause in conversation lest she back out of their lunch date, Darcy asked her where she would prefer to dine.
"Well, there are several places around this area; it just depends on where you want to go." Elizabeth assumed that Darcy would want to go someplace much more elegant-and more expensive-than her usual haunts.
"Where do most of the local people go for lunch?"
"Well, there is the food court in the mall, but it's terribly crowded this time of day. Then there are a few restaurants around here that serve everything from tacos to burgers to Italian dishes. We probably don't have the kind of places you're used to."
Darcy, confused by what she had been insinuating by her last statement, thought of the times he saw her with her friends eating on the circle. "Where do you and your friends normally go?"
"Generally, we go to the City Market, but I don't know if you would like it. It can be an acquired taste," remarked Elizabeth. She couldn't imagine someone of Darcy's affluence feeling comfortable in such a downscale eating establishment.
To her surprise, Darcy quickly agreed to her suggestion, "That's perfect, should we drive or walk?"
"It isn't too far. Why don't we walk there?" Elizabeth glanced at Darcy to see if he was comfortable with her suggestion.
"Sure, I haven't been able to see much of the city since I have been here. This way I can have a look around on our way," Darcy smiled, trying to put an obviously restless Elizabeth at ease.
The City Market was a small open-air market with a wide variety of people and items, from food vendors offering gyros to fresh fruits and vegetables as well as kiosks filled with art and handmade objects by local craftsmen. Elizabeth loved the atmosphere and exotic foods available there. As she and Darcy walked the few blocks to the market, the rich aroma of different mouth-watering foods competing with each other reached them before the steel gates could be seen.
"Welcome to the City Market," Elizabeth waved her hand with a flourish as they entered the gates. "There are a wide variety of foods to choose from," she added as she steered him towards the food section.
Darcy took the entire scene in. He had never encountered such a place. He had been invited to open-air antique markets near his home several times, but he never went. Nevertheless, he felt sure that this place was different. People of every conceivable nationality bustled around, in all manner of dress, from business suits to what could only charitably be called cast-offs. Reggae blared unapologetically from the dreadlocked fruit vendor's booth and a little Thai woman stirring a large simmering pot yelled at her daughter scooping rice into a container for a customer. In the middle of what Darcy considered to be a tiny, provincial town, there was a mini-United Nations, thriving with the dishes and goods of a dozen countries. The best part, though, was how Elizabeth looked --she seemed so at home among all these varying people. She gracefully moved around the market place, nonplused by the crowds that threatened to engulf her. William stood momentarily amazed that she could be so at ease in such a situation. It just proves how amazing she is.
"William?" Elizabeth tried to get his attention for the second time. This was a mistake, he is uncomfortable here.
Darcy relished the simple way she said his name. Many women who addressed him said it sharply or in a high pitch that made him cringe, but Elizabeth's address had a simple and warm way about it, like a caress. She could embrace him without her body ever touching his. He liked it. His reply was warm and firm, indicating that his voice reflected the pleasant nature of his thoughts, "Sorry, I was lost in thought ... What were you saying?"!
Smiling, Elizabeth repeated her question, "What would you like to eat?" She was relieved to see that he did not seem to be agitated or unwilling to get food from such an establishment.
"What do you recommend?"
"I was going to go for a gyro and Greek salad, but you can get whatever you'd like. There are plenty of things ... hamburgers or pizza if you're not feeling too adventurous, but there's a great Thai roasted chicken over there ... You name it, you can probably find it."
"A gyro and Greek salad sounds delicious; I think I will have the same." Darcy couldn't remember if he had ever tried such a concoction before or not.
"Why don't we get our things to go, and have a picnic in the park?"
Generally, the market was too crowded to sit and enjoy a lunch hour, which was why many chose to go to the circle to dine. However, Elizabeth, still too nervous to talk their mutual glance-stealing over the last weeks, did not want to have to go there, where his balcony would be clearly visible. Mainly, she didn't want to have to talk about something that had the possibility to make her--and likely, him-awkward and embarrassed.
"Sure, that sounds great," Inside, Darcy was torn. I wish we could have gone to the circle. I've been watching you for so long, wishing that I could join you. To sit next to you there, I could have fulfilled at least part of my fantasies. While disappointed, Darcy rallied well, and reminded himself that the important thing was that he was getting to spend time alone with her.
Elizabeth and Darcy got in line and proceeded to order. Playing it safe, Darcy asked for the exact same thing as Elizabeth. I wonder if I should pay for both of us. Would she take that the wrong way? She would probably correct me that we aren't on a date again. All right, Elizabeth, you can have your way ... this time.
Darcy watched Elizabeth proceed to the cashier. Every instinct told him that he should offer to pay, but he held back, not wanting to send Elizabeth running away again. He turned his attention back onto his lunch as it was being prepared. In the bottom of the container they placed warmed pita bread, heaped with generous amounts of tender dark pieces of lamb on top. Then, what Darcy could only assume was a sauce mixed with feta cheese was added. The lid was closed and another container with his Greek salad joined it as he paid for his meal and then followed Elizabeth as she confidently made her way through the herds of people out to where he could finally see where they were going.
They headed north of the main hub of downtown and walked to a nearby park. The day was beautiful. The sky was a baby blue, with large white clouds that resembled cotton balls. The park was empty except for the occasional runner or mother pushing her child along in a stroller. Elizabeth led Darcy to a small bench that faced into the park.
"It's beautiful today." Elizabeth wanted to break the silence that they had maintained since they left the City Market.
"Yes, it is. The weather has been wonderful. Is it generally so nice here during this time of year?"
"Yes, most of the time. I just wish I had more time to enjoy it."
"Why don't you?"
"Well usually, work keeps me pretty busy. On the weekends, if I am here, I try to get out as often as possible."
Darcy, wishing to know anything that would give him insight as to what Elizabeth did with her time, asked if she got to spend time outdoors last weekend.
"Oh, yes! I have a small garden at my house, so I puttered out there Saturday, planting some new flowers. Then I spent all day Sunday on the trails in the Smoky Mountains. Have you gotten a chance to explore the mountains yet?"
Darcy did not want to reveal that he could not remember his drive through the mountains because he had spent the whole time daydreaming about her; so he answered as obtusely as possible. "Yes, some, but I hope to see a great deal more. I would prefer to have a guide than to allow myself to get lost."
"Yes, I can see your point. Well, while you're here, maybe you will get a chance," Oh! Why did I just say that? Great, Liz, now he is going to think that you are hinting for a date.
Darcy perked up at Elizabeth's inadvertent aside. Is that an offer? Because, if it is, Elizabeth, I would be more than happy to take you up on it.
Elizabeth, grasping for something to say, asked the first thing that came to mind. "So, how is it that you know Senator Rossemmee so well?"
"He was a good friend with my parents. So, I guess I have known him my whole life. When I took over for my father at the company, I started to work with him on several different ventures. Then he decided to run for office, and such a good man deserves support, so I often donate to his campaign," finished Darcy, who started to blush a little on the tips of his ears for revealing the tricky situation they were now in.
Now I really can't see him outside of work!! What would people think? The senator's press secretary dating one of the senator's largest campaign donors? That has scandal written all over it. Better to find that out now, Lizzy, than to lose your heart to him and regret it!
"I see, and how did you become involved in the Small Business Fairs?" she asked, while chewing her lip, hoping that her troubled state wouldn't reveal itself to him.
"He called me, and I thought it was a worthwhile venture." That and I knew you worked for him, and it was the perfect way to get closer to you.
"Ah! Well, it should be interesting, to say the least. No one around here has ever attempted such a seminar, so we will have to see how worthwhile it proves to be."
"I'm sure under your leadership it will be a big success, Elizabeth."
Elizabeth's breath caught in her throat. Though she had been determined to keep this lunch professional, hearing him say her name made her feel like he was looking straight though her and they were no longer talking about the business fairs, but themselves. His voice conveyed interest and intimacy. And that scared her. Nervously, Elizabeth glanced at her watch and declared that she had better be going or she would be late.
"Why don't I walk you back, then?"
"Oh, I wouldn't want to make you late for anything," Elizabeth's breezy tone only partly belied her desire for some distance from the feelings Darcy was evoking in her.
"It wouldn't make me late for anything. That's the advantage of being your own boss, I guess. What kind of gentleman would I be if I didn't escort you back to the office?" Darcy was trying to make Elizabeth comfortable again. What did I say that caused her to become so edgy?
They talked about inconsequential topics on their walk back to Elizabeth's office building. Not wanting their afternoon to end just yet, Darcy insisted on walking Elizabeth to her elevator. He knew that this was his last chance to make Elizabeth more relaxed and end their lunch on a hopeful note, but try as he might, the only thing that he could think of to say that might not scare her had nothing to do with them at all.
"Do you know if Charles and Jane will be doing something this weekend?" asked Darcy.
"Oh, I don't know. I would guess so. Why?"
"I was just curious. Maybe we will see each other again then, this weekend," Darcy could not keep the hopeful tone from his voice. I know I'll be seeing you again soon, but it can't come soon enough for me.
"Yes, maybe. Well, thank you for having lunch with me. And until we see each other again." Still hoping to remain professional, Elizabeth offered her hand for Darcy to shake.
"Yes, until then," Darcy closed his left hand over their joined right hands and gazed meaningfully into her eyes. He did not break his eye contact until the elevator doors closed and whisked her up to her floor. Dejectedly, he made his way out of the building and along the brick sidewalk that lead to his hotel.
Darcy replayed the entire lunch scene over in his mind. While he knew he should feel happy that he spent some time with Elizabeth, he still felt empty when she left. No matter how much time he spent with her, he did not think he would ever be sated.
"So, how was he?" asked Kristin and Monica at the same time as Elizabeth came back into the office.
"Who? I'm sure I don't know what you're talking about..." quipped Elizabeth airily, enjoying teasing the girls as she made her way back to her office.
"Don't pretend you don't know who we mean," Monica insisted.
"Mr. William Darcy! Was he everything you read about in the magazines? What wouldn't I have given to have lunch with him?" Kristin was clearly excited at the prospect of getting to work with a celebrity. "And think about it, Lizzy! You not only get to work with him all the time, but you get to be seen with him at events, too."
"Yes, a great honor," Elizabeth pursed her lips into a droll smile. "Seriously, girls, he was nice, and we had a pleasant time, but that is all you're getting out of me."
"Fine, keep the good stuff to yourself. See if I tell you anything the next time a gorgeous man asks me out," Monica good-naturedly feigned a pout as she headed back to her desk.
Kristin, noticing that Elizabeth was somewhat subdued, simply asked if there was anything else Elizabeth needed. When a negative reply came, she made her way back to her desk to wait until Elizabeth needed her. As her trusted assistant, Kristin knew that Elizabeth would come to her when she was ready.
What am I going to do? I really think I like him, and I wish I could get closer to him. But, now that he is working with us on the fairs, would it be right to try to see if I could pursue a relationship with him? And am I even ready to think about trusting someone again?
Elizabeth pondered that last thought all afternoon, tending to her work like an automaton. Still in a daze, she grabbed her things, and left work an hour early. She reached the street and subconsciously chose to walk to her car via the circle. She glanced up to Darcy's balcony and was bothered to see that he wasn't there.
It was through the disappointment she felt at being deprived of seeing him that she found the answer to her dilemma. She would try to move into a place in her life where she would be open to a relationship. Whether or not it was with Darcy had yet to be determined, but what she was feeling was enough for her realize that she actually wanted to date again.
No, Darcy wasn't on his balcony in time to see Elizabeth, but it wasn't for a lack of trying.
Slowly, he had made his way back to his hotel. He wasn't in any hurry to go back to the room he occupied by himself. The emptiness of his room-of his life-was magnified after even a short time with Elizabeth.
"Good afternoon, sir," said the doorman as he opened the hotel's doors for Darcy, but Darcy didn't hear him as he wallowed in the void left by Elizabeth's absence.
Darcy reluctantly crossed the polished marble floors of the hotel to the elevator. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a voice could be heard throughout the entire lobby that grated on him like nails on a chalkboard.
"I understand he isn't in, but what do you mean you won't give me the keys to his room?"
"I'm sorry, ma'am. I've called both rooms several times, and no one answered. It's against hotel policy to give you room numbers, much less keys to a room that is not in your name or that you are not a guest in; you will have to wait for one of them to come back. If you'd like, we have a very comfortable lobby, and we'll be happy to provide you with a beverage," The concierge nodded towards the lounge.
Caroline Bingley impatiently looked around the lobby as the man behind the counter offered his apology, but quickly lost all interest when her eyes beheld the prize she had been looking for.
"Oh! WILLIAM! There you are!" she squealed as she walked across the floor as quickly as her stiletto heels would allow.
Darcy looked for somewhere to run or hide behind, but alas, all he could do was watch her gracelessly cross the newly waxed floors and hope she would slip.
"Good afternoon, Caroline. What brings you to North Carolina?" Darcy put on a gallant face despite his rising dread.
"Don't be silly, I came as soon as I heard that Charles decided to buy a business here. Can you believe it? North Carolina, of all places! What on earth would bring him here is beyond me. It's too bad we didn't arrive on time, we could surely have talked him out of it," Caroline babbled as she took possession of his arm, and led him toward the elevators, in the obvious hope that he would escort her up to his suite.
Darcy, trying to put distance between the two of them, extricated himself from her clutches and seated himself in a nearby chair. He thought it would be wise to select one that wasn't surrounded by anything she could sit upon. "Actually Caroline, I think it is an excellent business deal. It will be a great venture for Charles." Unfortunately for Darcy, he miscalculated when selecting his seating, for left with no other options, Caroline coyly perched herself on the arm of his chair.
"Well, of course, but North Carolina! You must be exceedingly bored with the lack of things to do. I'm sure the locals' idea of a good time is a truck pull." Caroline rolled her eyes and gave a disdainful sniff. "You must long for culture and refinement."
Darcy smirked as he answered, "Actually, I have been quite entertained."
Put out, Caroline tried to retract her earlier statements. "Well, I'm sure there are some people in the local population that one could stand to be around, but seriously, there couldn't be anything here that could compare to places in New York or Los Angeles."
Charles arrived in time to save Darcy from having to continue to make conversation with Caroline.
"Caroline? What are you doing here?" Charles was obviously not expecting his sister's arrival.
"I thought I would come and spend a few days with my brother. I came earlier and I was hoping to freshen up, but the neanderthals that run this hotel wouldn't let me up to your room!"
"Why didn't you get your own room?"
"Well ... I guess I could have." Caroline adopted her most petulant face. "But, Charles, now that you are here, could you be a dear and get me a room?"
"I guess so, just wait right here."
As Charles left to arrange for Caroline's room, she tried to make small talk with Darcy. As was his usual mode in Caroline's presence, he continued to remain silent at her snide remarks about the area and population. Out of respect for the feelings of his friend, he ignored her intimation about how close they were.
"Here, Caroline, you are in the suite next to mine," Charles returned with Caroline's room keys, tossing them nonchalantly in her lap.
"Oh? And how far am I from you, William darling?"
"I'm two floors below you," Even Darcy's strong sense of politeness couldn't disguise the relief he felt.
Upset by her room placement, Caroline tried to get Darcy to ask her out to dinner. Fortunately, Darcy had the excuse of having to work and left Charles to dine with his sister. Instead, Darcy went to his suite, where he sat at his desk and for the first time since he set eyes upon Elizabeth, was able to get a considerable amount of work done.
Chapter 11: An Offer She Can't Refuse
After a turbulent night's sleep, Elizabeth had gone into work early. Nothing particular had been on her mind, yet at the same time, it seemed as though everything was on her mind. Her thoughts seemed to be a mess, and despite trying to concentrate on anything but him, her thoughts kept wandering back to William Darcy. So, after not being able to focus on anything she finally gave up and got ready for work.
As she walked along the brick sidewalks, a cool mountain breeze blew through her hair, tossing it about and the wind brought with it an uneasy feeling. Elizabeth tried to shake the sudden melancholy that had filled her heart by comforting herself that nothing was wrong. With one last look behind her, to reassure herself, that indeed, she was alone, she entered her office building.
The day was moving slowly for Elizabeth as she waded through seemingly endless piles of paperwork and as the monotony was starting to get to her, she was startled by a knock at her office door.
"Elizabeth, do you have any plans for lunch today?" asked Senator Rossemmee.
Shocked by the sudden appearance of her boss and his question, Elizabeth stumbled out that she had no plans.
"Excellent! I need you to join me for lunch with Tom, Harris, and David. Be ready in ten minutes," said the Senator, who left just as suddenly as he had appeared.
As Senator Rossemmee's request began to sink in, a giant weight settled in the pit of her stomach. Why am I meeting with four of the most influential men in our state? And, why do they want me there? With these thoughts, all of the morning's feelings washed back over her in full force. Elizabeth nervously gathered up her suit coat and handbag and left for lunch.
As the group finished ordering, talk of business started at the table. The restaurant was quiet as it only had a smattering of customers due to the early hour, yet Elizabeth still became distracted by watching the comings and goings of the restaurant's employees and thinking about her luncheon companions.
Head of the political party in North Carolina, Tom Kellogg was a short balding man, who had boundless energy. He had married young and he and his wife were known as two of the most eccentric people in the political arena. They would often take off for parts unknown whenever the whim overtook them. It wasn't uncommon to see him one day and learn the next that he was halfway around the world
Harris Wile, a young man of 33, was incredibly intelligent having graduated at the top of his class with both his bachelor's and master's degrees. His insights into the nuances of a political campaign were constantly in demand. Yet, for all of his intelligence and experience, he often seemed shy and unsure of himself.
The third man, Dave Lake, a highly respected political consultant, had been Elizabeth's mentor since the moment she had interned with him during her sophomore year in college. He had been her guiding light through the rest of her education and had given Elizabeth her first job. Elizabeth held Dave in high regard, and knew that if this meeting was going to be bad news, he would have talked to her first.
"Elizabeth, you are probably wondering why we have asked you to join us," said Tom, startling Elizabeth out of her reverie.
"I am a little curious," she admitted, while finally allowing herself to become comfortable in the relaxed atmosphere that the restaurant provided.
Slowly, Senator Rossemmee looked at each of the people at the table before addressing Elizabeth. "After having some extensive discussions with Tom, Harris, Dave, and various others, I have decided not to run for another term in the U.S. Senate."
Why? That was the only thought that surfaced in Elizabeth's shocked mind.
"Instead, I'm going to seek election as Governor of North Carolina."
Silence ensued as the waiter brought their lunches, thus allowing Elizabeth time to gather her thoughts. I am going to have to find another job! I am going to have to leave Washington, and find a job!
"Elizabeth, the reason we asked you here is because we want you to resign from your current job with the Senate, and become the Senator's gubernatorial campaign chief," said Dave breaking the silence that had drifted over the table, in hopes of reassuring Elizabeth that she was still a valued employee.
"You are extremely qualified, and have been loyal to the party. It is time for you to benefit from your efforts. You'd have almost unlimited resources and Harris has agreed to help you. You'd be able to rely on him, no matter what," responded Tom, in what seemed like an effort to convince Elizabeth to take the job.
Too stunned by the announcement and then the subsequent job offer, Elizabeth could do nothing but stare at each person as they continued discussing her possible job change and future responsibilities.
"Elizabeth," Senator Rossemmee interrupted, "you've always been a valuable part of my team. I'm exhausted with the Senate and I'm ready to start looking for other, possibly bigger, opportunities. With this, I can bring my family back to North Carolina and I can get back to the reasons that we got into the political arena in the first place. However, this will not be easy and I'm going to need those I trust the most and those who believe in me working for me." The senator's soft, yet strong and confident voice drifted over Elizabeth, and helped to calm her nerves.
"I must say, that while I am shocked by this news, it is not totally unexpected. I have suspected for quite some time that you might be interested in running for Governor and I am honored that you believe me capable of organizing and running such a campaign," Elizabeth paused to gather her breath and to collect her thoughts before continuing. "This being said, such a change will completely alter my current lifestyle. Is it possible for me to have some time to think about my answer?"
"We can only give you 72 hours to think this over. After that, we'll need a decision. We are already behind in preparing the campaign," answered Tom.
"Why don't you take the rest of the day off to think about this? I am sure there is nothing pressing going on and if something comes up, Kristin can call you," replied Senator Rossemmee, hoping to make the decision easier on Elizabeth.
"Well, I would certainly like to thank each of you for your belief in my abilities and considering me for this position. I suppose I should call Kristin to tell her I won't be in for the rest of the afternoon. I hope to have an answer for you within the next day or so," responded Elizabeth. With that, she gathered up her things, slowly made her way to her car and then home.
As she made the twenty-minute trip, Elizabeth relived the entire conversation in her head. She picked apart and analyzed what each person had said. As she neared her house she realized that she would have to leave Washington and permanently return home to North Carolina. Suddenly, the magnitude of the decision overwhelmed Elizabeth.
Relieved to finally be home, Elizabeth looked forward to relaxing and the chance to thoroughly think through her decision. However, upon entering the house, the sweet smell of bread baking told her that Jane must have taken the day off.
"Jane, what are you doing?" Elizabeth asked as she entered the kitchen, and saw that Jane was busy making several dishes.
Jane jumped almost dropping the pan of chicken that she was marinating, "Oh! You scared me. When I was talking with Charles yesterday, he mentioned that his sister was in town. So, I decided to invite Charles, his sister Caroline, and Darcy over for dinner. Then this morning I figured I would take the day off to clean the house and make dinner."
Elizabeth changed into an old pair of jeans and shirt and helped with dinner. As she chopped the salad fixings, Elizabeth told Jane about the new job offer.
"That would be a job with incredible responsibility. Do you think you would be able to handle all of the stress?" asked Jane. She knew Elizabeth well enough to worry that if Elizabeth became extremely stressed, she would hold it all in until she couldn't take anymore. The best comparison that Jane was ever able to come up with was that Elizabeth under stress was similar to a ticking time bomb.
"It isn't the stress that's bothering me, it's the changes ... I guess, what I'm really worried about is whether or not I will be able to do the job effectively," answered Elizabeth.
"Well, I think the last thing you will need to worry about is being able to do the job. You have always excelled at anything you put your mind to."
Their conversation continued in a similar fashion until they had finished getting dinner ready and it was time to dress before their guests arrived.
Precisely at seven, the Bennets' guests arrived, Darcy and the Bingley siblings. Darcy, who had not seen Elizabeth in several days, could easily be compared to a man who had been in the desert for several days, finally getting a glass of water; he drank in her appearance, hoping it would satisfy his growing ardor.
Immediately, he could sense that something was weighing heavily on her. Wishing he had the right to relieve the burden, he did the next best thing. "Elizabeth," asked Darcy as he steered her to a more secluded part of the room, "is everything all right?"
Startled by being so easily found out, Elizabeth reassured him that, indeed, everything was just fine. Instead of being able to focus on each other, their attention was soon demanded by another member of the party. Caroline was willing to give the Bennet sisters some of the benefit of the doubt, but the fact that Darcy had his hand on the small of Elizabeth's back, instantly sent her into attack mode.
"This is a nice sort of place, Jane! It is so small, but cozy," sneered Caroline. "Do you have much trouble with criminals in this neighborhood?" she asked in a sickening sweet voice.
Immediately, Elizabeth's ire rose to the occasion. "I was under the impression that you were going to stay in Meryton for the duration of your brother's trip. If you find the society to be so offensive, I wonder at you spending so much time here."
"Well, Eliza," Caroline sneered venomously, "it may be fit for some."
Uncomfortable with Caroline and Elizabeth's discussion, Jane quickly announced that dinner was ready and they all went into the dining room and sat down to what was surely going to be a very trying meal.
Throughout the dinner, Caroline observed Darcy's every interaction with Elizabeth. She quickly saw that for some particular reason that she didn't understand, Darcy seemed to be smitten with "this backwoods chit." Surely, he should know better? Very well, I will just have to remind him who he is and how very inappropriate a relationship with Elizabeth Bennet would be.
"So, Eliza, no one has been able to tell me exactly but what is it that you do?" Caroline asked smugly.
Looking up from her plate, Elizabeth answered with as much grace as possible, "Currently, I am the press secretary for United States Senator Rossemmee."
"Oh! A secretary! Isn't that cute," responded Caroline, looking at Darcy as though she was the cat who had swallowed a canary. "And, exactly what type of education do you need for that job?"
"Well, we all have different experience, but, personally, I received my undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina and then graduated from law school at Duke."
"What do you plan on doing then, with all of that education?" asked Caroline, desperately trying to save face.
"I plan to do the work of the people," seeing the confused look on Caroline's face, Elizabeth continued, "as in public service. So, right now, I enjoy working for Senator Rossemmee, but am currently looking for more politically focused work."
"POLITICS?" cried Caroline flabbergasted. "Surely, Eliza, dear, you must know that politics is no place for a lady!"
A deathly silence came over the table. Charles stared at his sister with a look mixed with horror and surprise. Jane stared at her sister, silently praying for divine intervention to keep Elizabeth's temper in check.
Darcy, on the other hand, was appalled by Caroline's behavior. Knowing Elizabeth would be upset, he did the only thing he knew of to show his support, he placed his hand upon her thigh and gave it a friendly squeeze.
Furious to yet again be told that she shouldn't do something because she was a woman, Elizabeth was ready to unleash years of pent up anger upon an unsuspecting Caroline. That was until a hand came to rest upon her leg. It was by the sheer force of two wills, that Elizabeth kept her temper in check and quickly swallowed the rest of her drink.
Her emotions were in such turmoil; she was mixed between charging across the table at Caroline and at contemplating the hand upon her leg. His simple movement conveyed that he was able to judge what would upset her. While the movement had been very reassuring, it was still very unsettling to her.
The rest of the dinner was a strained affair. Charles and Jane made quiet conversation between themselves, while Darcy monopolized Elizabeth's attention. However, not long after his surprise act, she put her hand on his, intertwining their fingers. Only Caroline was left to herself and she started to feel as though she had missed something important.
Darcy had tried to speak to Elizabeth after dinner, but Caroline had made any type of private discourse difficult. He didn't want to subject her to a public inquisition if she was hurting about something. No, he would have to talk to her later, or at least hope that maybe in time she would come to him with her worries and concerns. Not that I have that right yet.
That night as Elizabeth fell asleep, she made her decision. Caroline's dinner comments brought back all kinds of memories that she had of her mother, Fannie Bennet. Elizabeth's mother and sisters had always thought Elizabeth to be incapable in her career choice. Yet, tonight, unwittingly, Caroline had made Elizabeth face those demons once again.
Smiling to herself, Elizabeth made a mental note to see Tom first thing in the morning before she went into work.
That following week at Senator Rossemmee's office was bittersweet. Elizabeth had moved all of her personal effects to her new office at what was to become campaign headquarters. Slowly, she was training Monica, who was to become her replacement.
Thus, all that was left were her things in Washington. There, she had to clean out her office and move out of the small apartment she shared with two other staff members. Those things, however, would be taken care of that next week; she was hoping that Jane, Charles and Darcy would help her pack up her things on their way home from the mountain festivals that Jane wanted to show Charles.
Jane had not really been surprised to learn of Elizabeth's decision. She always knew and understood Elizabeth's goals and was happy for her; as was her father. In fact the only lament came from Mrs. Bennet, who was, yet again, worried that Elizabeth, with her choice of career, would never find a husband.
By Friday, Elizabeth was ready for a break. The emotional toll of leaving her job had been greater than she had expected. Yet, within the next few weeks, she knew she would be seeing many of her friends again as they were interviewing for positions with the campaign. Once again she was the last person to leave and as she slowly made her way out of that office and along the circle for the final time she thought about how she would no longer have a reason to walk this direction for work.
As she walked around the brick sidewalks of the circle, she looked up and saw Darcy on his balcony. Suddenly, not wanting to go home, but not wanting to be alone either, Elizabeth took a chance and went into the Columbia Club.
Darcy had been watching Elizabeth, silently hoping that she would join him. Suddenly, her path took a different turn. As she neared the Columbia Club, she looked straight at him and just as she entered the building, she waved.
Not having time to straighten the room, Darcy rushed down to meet her in the lobby. Nervously, he invited Elizabeth up for some coffee.
He seems just as nervous as I am, thought Elizabeth. This feels so natural, like I am supposed to come to him when I have something on my mind.
"I am going to call room-service, would you like anything to go with your coffee?" asked Darcy.
"No, nothing. Although, I suppose I could go for something small to eat, thanks."
With that, Darcy ordered coffee and several different types of sandwiches for them. While he was busy placing their order, Elizabeth took a look at the room.
The entire room matched the elegant, and expensive, décor of the rest of the hotel. Yet, somehow, Darcy had made it something more. Everywhere she looked, she learned a new facet of his personality. His coat was neatly hung next to the door, and his computer was precisely set upon the desk.
However, as she approached the dining area table, she noticed that paperwork flooded the table. He has so much to do. So many responsibilities and so young. I wonder how he is able to handle it all without appearing to be stressed out of his mind?
After finishing his call, Darcy joined Elizabeth, "I'm sorry for the mess, here let me clean it up."
"No, no, it was me who interrupted you. I shouldn't have bothered you when you have so much to do. I should go."
"NO!" exclaimed Darcy. "No, really," he sheepishly continued, "it isn't a problem. Besides, I've already ordered us room service. I expect you to stay at least for that," he finished with a smile.
"Well, then, why don't we go out to the balcony? That way we won't disturb your paperwork."
Slowly, the pair made their way to the balcony and the view that had started their infatuation with each other.
Elizabeth looked at the sun setting over the city of Meryton, and suddenly, everything that had been on her mind tumbled out. "Last week, on the day that you came over for dinner, I was offered a new job."
Elizabeth's proclamation startled Darcy out of his reverie.
"Senator Rossemmee has decided that he will run for Governor of North Carolina and has asked me to head up the campaign. I don't really have any experience in campaigns," she said as she slowly turned to face him, "but this is something I have always wanted to do so I accepted."
Continuing, she listed every negative about the job. "It is going to mean a major cut in pay. I am going to have to leave Washington, and friendships I have developed will change now that I am on the campaign side of things." Here she paused and realized she desperately wanted his opinion and for him to tell her it was a good decision. "Do you think I made a good decision in taking this new job?"
Sensing her need for approval he spoke with gentle support, "I think it is important for you to do what will make you happy. It seems as though you have wanted this position for a long time, and now that it has been given to you, you may be worried that maybe it isn't what you really wanted after all."
Smiling in agreement, Elizabeth responded, "You are exactly right, it all seems too good to be true. It has all happened so unexpectedly, no doubt once the campaigning begins I will quickly come back to reality."
"Sometimes, Elizabeth, we just have to go with what feels right. Then deal with the consequences as they come."
Suddenly, Elizabeth felt as though there was a double meaning behind his last statement. Feeling that the conversation was becoming too personal to her, she felt the need to change the conversation, and so she abruptly asked him about his name.
"So, tell me, Charles calls you Darce, and at dinner the other night Caroline called you Darcy. So, why is it that you won't let anyone call you by your first name?" asked Elizabeth in a teasing tone.
"My first name is a secret," he said in a mocking serious manner, as if daring her to continue with her questions.
"Will you share?"
"You have to promise not to tell," he whispered softly as he moved closer to her.
"Agreed"
"It's Fitzwilliam ... Actually, it is a family name that has been passed down for generations. And, before you ask no, not everyone calls me by my last name. My sister, Georgia, calls me William."
"Does anyone call you Fitzie?" Elizabeth asked flippantly.
Laughing outright, Darcy had to say that no one had ever called him by such a name. "But, Elizabeth, you don't have to call me by my last name, you may call me William ... if you would like."
"William..." said Elizabeth as she felt the name roll off her tongue. "What if I called you Willie?"
"No, not Willie," he said laughingly.
Slowly, during this flirtatious conversation, William and Elizabeth had stepped closer to each other to the point where they were now practically touching.
"Well, I have always liked the name Liam. Has anyone ever called you Liam?"
"Not until now," responded William, as he surrendered to temptation and tasted the sweet sensation that was Elizabeth's lips.