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Chapter Fourteen

Slowly walking up the pathway to the back porch, Elizabeth lazily brushed her hand across the wildflowers growing along the border. A gentle breeze swept past, blowing her hair about her face and neck. Smoothing her wavy tresses, she pulled them back, before sitting down on the back step. A smile spread over her face as thoughts of William filled her mind. The sound of his voice, the touch of his hand, the feel of his lips, his caring nature...

Through the screened door, the sound of Peter's voice broke in on her reverie. She quickly rose, and upon entering the house found her son sitting at the kitchen table next to Bessie.

Looking up at the sound of the door closing, Peter greeted her. "Hey, Mom."

"Are you hungry, dear?" Bessie stood, gesturing for Elizabeth to take a seat at the table.

"Good morning." Placing a hand on Bessie's arm as she passed by, Elizabeth smiled brightly. "Thank you, Bessie. I'd love some fruit...and perhaps a muffin if you have any."

"I do, indeed. Just have a seat and I'll get that for you." Bessie returned the smile and watched as Elizabeth sat in a chair near her son.

Pushing a plate of scones toward his mother, Peter motioned for her to take one. "Bessie made fresh scones this morning."

Elizabeth shook her head at him. "That woman spoils you."

"What can I say?" Peter grinned. "As I recall, Dad often accused you of the same thing."

Elizabeth chuckled as she observed her grown son. He looked so much like his father - his dark eyes, deep as molasses, were exact replicas of Jonas', and his thick, brown hair, tossed messily atop his head reminded Elizabeth of what his father looked like when she first met him. "That he did."

The pair sat quietly, both reflecting on Jonas Bennet, until Bessie broke the silence as she set a plate of muffins and a steaming teapot on the table.

"How was church?" Peter asked as he grabbed a muffin and slathered butter across it.

"It was..." Elizabeth absently picked up a muffin then looked over his shoulder, out the bay window.

Peter eyed his mother curiously as she stared off into the distance with a deepening smile on her face.

"...wonderful." She returned her gaze to meet Peter's.

"Really?" He raised a brow. "I'm sorry I missed it."

"It's better that you stayed in bed." Elizabeth ate a piece of the muffin.

"I think I would like to have seen what made it so wonderful."

Reaching for the teapot, Elizabeth poured the hot water into her teacup to prepare some honey chamomile tea. "You needed your sleep ... besides, you may not have felt quite the same about it as I did." She offered Peter a cup of tea. "Would you like some?"

He shook his head. "No...thanks." Leaning back in his chair, he tipped his head to the side and looked at her in wonder.

Bessie brought a bowl of fresh fruit to the table. "Is there anything else you'll be needing?"

"I think we're fine, Bessie. Thank you." Elizabeth smiled up at the older woman. "You remember that Peter and I will be dining at Charlotte's this evening?"

Bessie nodded. "Yes. Will you be wanting Ralph to drive you?"

"No, thank you. I believe I'll manage."

Turning away, Bessie exited the room, leaving mother and son alone.

"You drive yourself now?" Peter asked, knowing that his mother had always disliked driving. "What else have you been doing that I don't know about?"

Elizabeth's mind immediately flashed to kissing William and she felt a rush of warmth to her cheeks. Raising her teacup, she quickly sipped the hot liquid. "There is much you don't know about your mother," she said with a sly smile.

"I have no doubts about that." Shaking his head, Peter helped himself to some fruit. "So, who's going to be at this dinner tonight?"

"Just a small group - some people I've become friends with."

"Who are these friends of yours?"

Setting down her cup, Elizabeth leaned forward, resting her forearms on the table. "Well ... there's Charlotte - you remember her, of course."

Peter nodded. "Yes, your good friend whose husband has a bloated opinion of himself."

Elizabeth guffawed and lightly slapped Peter's arm. "Be nice now."

"Merely making an observation, Mother." His face bore a guileless expression. "And I wasn't the one laughing."

Chuckling, she continued. "And Sir Percy Rutherford. Did you meet him last year?"

"Sir Percy? I think so ... is he the guy who drives the Jaguar?"

Elizabeth nodded. "He is."

"I did meet him. Only briefly, we ran into him in Lambton."

"He's become a very good friend."

Peter's eyes opened wide as he arched his brow. "A very good friend?"

"Yes." She returned his wide-eyed stare. "Is there something wrong with that?"

Pursing his lips, he shook his head. "Not at all. Who else will be there?"

"A cousin of Charlotte's, and one of the neighbors and his son," Elizabeth concluded, amused that Peter had questioned her relationship with Sir Percy.

Leaning back in his seat, Peter rubbed his brow then arched back, stretching his arms outward. "Sounds like an exciting time," he said facetiously.

Swiftly reaching over, Elizabeth pinched Peter's side, causing him to nearly fall over in his chair. "Don't think I don't know what you meant by that, young man," she responded with mock sternness.

After righting himself in his seat, Peter took his mother's hand while chuckling softly. "I've missed you, Mom." His expression grew more serious. "How long do you plan on staying here?"

Surprised by the question, Elizabeth's heart lurched within her breast. "I don't...I haven't decided yet."

"Well, I hope you don't stay here permanently." He gave her hand a squeeze. "Remember, this is only a summer house."

She sighed. "I know."

Releasing her hand, Peter stood. "Well, I thought you might not be ready to come home so I brought your anniversary present with me." He walked toward the sitting room, stopping at the doorway to look back at her. "But you can't open it now."

"I can't open it now?"

"It's not your anniversary."

Elizabeth rose and followed Peter into the adjoining room. "You're going to make me wait an entire month?" Her look was incredulous. "Why didn't you just mail it?"

Approaching the fireplace, Peter picked up a medium sized box from atop the mantelpiece. It was neatly wrapped in glossy white paper, adorned with an opalescent bow. "I wanted to make sure it arrived safely." He handed the gift to his mother. "If you'd like to open it now, you can."

As she held the package, wondering about its contents, she smiled up at Peter. "No...I'll wait." She placed the box back on the mantle. "I'll leave it here and open it on July 12th." Reaching up she kissed his cheek. "Thank you."

"Elizabeth ... and Peter," Charlotte exclaimed as she opened the door for her guests. "I'm so glad you're here."

Elizabeth smiled and gave her friend a quick hug. "How are you, Charlotte?"

"I'm well. You seem in high spirits." Charlotte turned to Peter. "It must have something to do with you."

Peter stepped up to greet their hostess. "Nice to see you again."

"It's lovely that you've come to visit." Charlotte took Peter by the arm, leading him away from the entrance. "I'm surprised your mother decided to share you with us, especially so soon after your arrival."

Peter laughed, and after taking a few steps, stopped and shifted his gaze back to his mother, waiting for her to join them.

The three chatted as they made their way to the veranda where Thomas and Maria sat, noisily arguing. Julianne, Collins and Sir Percy stood in the open air of the garden holding a conversation away from the quarreling siblings.

"Thomas! Maria!" Charlotte sharply called out to her teenagers.

The bickering ceased as the two looked up to see the severe expression on their mother's face. Maria glared at her brother then opened her mouth to speak, but was prevented by her mother's approach. "The two of you are to set the table without another word. Am I understood?" Charlotte's voice was low, but stern.

Each with harsh looks for the other, Thomas and Maria quietly did as their mother ordered.

Charlotte turned back to Elizabeth and Peter, rolling her eyes. "Sorry about that. I can't leave those two alone lately."

Elizabeth chuckled. "Don't worry about it." Linking her arm with Charlotte's, Elizabeth urged her friend across the porch. "Let's join the others in the garden."

"Yes, I'm sure Peter prefers adult conversation over childish squabbling." Charlotte winked at Peter as he joined the two ladies descending the back steps.

Crossing the lawn, they approached the group, catching Sir Percy's eye. "Elizabeth!" Quickly traversing the distance between them, Sir Percy took both of her hands in his and placed a kiss on her cheek. "You look lovely, darling."

"Thank you." Elizabeth drew his attention to her son. "Do you remember Peter?"

"Of course, we met last year." Sir Percy eagerly shook Peter's hand. "It's been a while."

"Yes." Peter met Sir Percy's eye, then glanced over at his mother. "It has. Good to see you again."

Peter was then reacquainted with Collins and introduced to Julianne, and the gathered guests became involved in pleasant discourse while Charlotte slipped away to the kitchen to check on dinner's progress.

Several minutes into the discussion Peter noticed Charlotte leading two tall men toward the garden. As they neared, Peter could tell that one was a teenager and the other an older man, most likely the father and son his mother had mentioned that morning.

"Fitz, old chap, there you are," Sir Percy greeted the taller of the two new arrivals with a firm handshake.

"Percy." William took the extended hand, nodding at his old friend.

"And Hugh." Gripping the boy's shoulder, Sir Percy faced Peter's direction. "There's someone here you and your father haven't met."

While Sir Percy spoke to his son, William scanned the group, looking for the one face he had been longing to see since they had parted that morning. When his eyes rested on Elizabeth, his expression brightened and the corners of his mouth pulled up into a smile. She briefly met his gaze and the smile on her face broadened before Sir Percy called her attention.

"I think you should be the one to introduce your son."

"Oh ... yes..." Elizabeth struggled to gather her wits. William had a way of distracting her, especially when he looked at her in that way. "Peter, this is Hugh Darcy. He lives in London, but is visiting his father this summer." Elizabeth watched as her son took Hugh's hand in a firm grip and greeted him. Hugh's narrowed eyes softened slightly as Peter engaged him in a brief dialogue.

Continuing the introductions, Elizabeth turned to William. "And this is Hugh's father, Fitzwilliam Darcy. He has a large estate just up the road from Cresthaven." Brimming with anxiety as she watched her son converse with this man she had developed such strong feelings for these past several weeks, Elizabeth left their company to join Charlotte in her escape to the kitchen. It's probably best for them to acquaint themselves without me there, she thought after she excused herself and hurried to the house.

While Charlotte laid the last of the poached salmon on the serving platter, Elizabeth stood nearby, impatiently shifting on her feet as she stirred the white wine sauce for the fish.

Charlotte grinned at her friend. "You're certainly fidgety today."

Elizabeth smiled without looking up. "I am."

"So what's the matter?" Reaching over, Charlotte shut off the burner and took the wooden spoon from Elizabeth's hand.

Stepping aside, she allowed Charlotte full access to the stovetop. "Nothing's the matter."

"You've been so moody lately, it has to be something."

"I've been moody?" Elizabeth looked at her with uncertainty.

Charlotte thought for a moment. "Yes. Friday you were distant and quiet when I picked you up, then later you were more of your usual self, and today you were cheerful at the front door and now you seem anxious." Charlotte grabbed the dish with the salmon and rice pilaf. "I'd call that moody."

"I may be restless, but I'm not moody."

"There's a cause for it, perhaps..."

Charlotte was interrupted by Julianne's entrance. "Do you need any help?"

"In a minute, everything's about ready," Charlotte answered.

"Peter is an outstanding young man, Elizabeth. You must be very proud of him," Julianne said as she watched Charlotte pour the sauce onto the dish.

Turning to face Julianne, Elizabeth beamed. "Thank you, I couldn't be more proud of him."

"He is so confident, you should hear him out there. If you hadn't told me he's twenty-three, I'd think he was close to thirty." Julianne leaned against the counter. "He's more self-assured than most of the men I've dated, and some of them are ten years older."

"Who's he talking with?" Elizabeth asked casually, trying not to appear anxious.

Julianne pointed back toward the garden. "When I left he was speaking to Percy and Fitz."

Elizabeth walked over to the large kitchen window. "What were they talking about?" Looking out onto the yard, she could see her son conversing with the two gentlemen. Peter held his hands out in front of him, moving them as he spoke, a trait he had inherited from his father - the more involved the discussion, the more his hands moved.

Julianne joined Elizabeth at the window. "I left when they started talking about motorcycles."

Pursing her lips, Elizabeth watched as Peter's conversation grew more animated, signified by the motion of his hands, until all three men broke into laughter. "What else were they discussing?" Elizabeth glanced at Julianne.

"We talked about work, school, America. Did you know Percy lived in New York?"

Elizabeth shook her head. "I didn't know..."

"Are you two going to spend the evening staring out the window, or do you think you can break away to give me a hand with this?" Charlotte interrupted.

"Oh, sorry, Charlotte." Elizabeth quickly turned to help her friend with the serving dishes. "I was just curious about their conversation."

Charlotte raised her brow. "I can imagine."

Elizabeth's eyes narrowed as she looked at Charlotte. "What can you imagine?"

Shrugging her shoulders, Charlotte replied, "I imagine you're very curious about what your son might be saying to Fitz..." Charlotte handed the cucumber salad to Julianne, "...and Percy." She then ushered her cousin out of the kitchen before Elizabeth was able to respond.

Following the two women outside onto the veranda, she sidled next to Charlotte at the buffet. Setting down the soup tureen she carried, Elizabeth whispered to her friend, "I don't know what you think is..."

The pressure of a hand on her back halted Elizabeth's comment, and William's voice sounded low in her ear. "How are you this evening?"

"Hmmm..." Charlotte raised her brow, tipping her head in William's direction.

Rolling her eyes at Charlotte, Elizabeth straightened and turned around to face William. "I'm very well, thank you." She smiled as she stepped away from the table. "How are you?"

William took her arm and the pair walked slowly toward the back steps. "Couldn't be better."

"I'm glad to hear it."

"I've been speaking with your son, he's..."

"Oh, Elizabeth..." Charlotte called out. "Would you be a darling and fetch me the serving tongs? I think I left them in the kitchen."

Placing a hand on William's arm, she shifted to answer her friend. "Of course." Looking up at William she motioned toward the house. "I'm sorry, do you mind?"

"Not at all."

As they made their way back toward the house, Elizabeth resumed their conversation. "You said you'd been talking with Peter."

William nodded. "Yes, he's very impressive...well grounded."

"Thank you."

Opening the double doors, William followed Elizabeth to the kitchen. "He has much of his mother in him."

Elizabeth cast a doubtful expression. "Do you think so?"

"I do ... I don't mean physical characteristics, it's more of similarities in temperament and personality, I think."

"And you've picked all this up after one conversation?" She looked up at him with an arched brow.

Chuckling, he replied, "yes."

"My, you are a very perceptive man." Her eyebrow arched even higher. "This is a most uncommon quality you possess."

Stopping at the kitchen door he raised his brow in question, waiting for her to expound.

"You wonder at my meaning?" she asked playfully while watching the grin on William's face broaden. "It's a widely known fact that very few men have this perceptive attribute you seem to be gifted with."

"Hmmm..." He tipped his head down, contemplating her, momentarily silent. "Then I should consider myself...fortunate to be in possession of such a...rare gift."

She looked at him thoughtfully before responding. "Most definitely."

With a satisfied countenance, William watched as Elizabeth's eyes widened as if to emphasize her words before she spun around to cross the kitchen in search of Charlotte's misplaced serving tongs. He leaned against the doorframe fixing his gaze on her every move. "I enjoyed church today."

After locating the tongs, Elizabeth turned around to face him. "I'm glad."

"I've been anxious to see you since this morning."

"You have?"

Crossing the room, he stopped a few feet from where Elizabeth stood. "I have."

She made no response, just stared up into the depth of his eyes as he closed the space between them. Caressing her cheek with his fingertips, he rested his hand on her neck as he brushed his thumb across her parted lips. Lowering his head, he passed his lips gently over hers. Elizabeth slowly inhaled and William kissed her again with more intensity. A loud clang sounded as the serving tongs fell from Elizabeth's hand onto the tile floor, startling them both. William pulled away, Elizabeth bent down to retrieve the utensil, and they heard Charlotte's voice from outside the kitchen.

"Elizabeth, have you found those..." Charlotte stopped at the entrance, looking around the room.

"Yes, Charlotte, I've got them." Elizabeth stood, holding the tongs. "But they need to be washed, if you'll give me a minute I'll bring them right out." Her voice was tinged with irritation.

William stood silently nearby, wondering at whom she might be annoyed. Thinking that she must be upset with him, he began to leave, but was stopped by Elizabeth placing her hand on his.

"All right, as soon as you're finished. We're ready to eat." Charlotte glanced at William then Elizabeth before exiting the room.

Elizabeth quickly washed the tongs. William took them from her with towel in hand. As he dried them he tried to decide what he should say to her to break the uncomfortable silence that had developed.

Taking the tongs from him, Elizabeth reached up to brush a light kiss across his lips. "Thank you." Smiling, she took hold of his hand, gave it a squeeze then slowly let her fingers drop from his grasp before leaving the room.

For the second time that day, he stood dumbfounded, wearing a grin on his face while staring at Elizabeth's retreating figure. As he stood alone in the kitchen savoring his thrilling exchange with her, he moved to leave and was met by Hugh at the door.

"Dad." Hugh stared coolly at his father.

Stopping in his tracks, William's countenance fell at the sight of the boy's cold expression. "Son."

"Charlotte says we're ready to eat." Hugh's chinned tipped upward as he tightened his jaw. "She sent me in to get you."

"Then let's not keep everybody waiting." William lifted his arm to pat his son's back, but Hugh stepped away, avoiding his father's touch.

"We already have been waiting." Hugh replied, then quickly strode out to the porch.

Sighing deeply, he rubbed his brow then joined the others outside.

The guests were taking their seats when William came out from the house. Scanning the arrangement, he could see that Hugh had positioned himself at a full table between Thomas and Collins, leaving little chance for him to converse with his son until later. On the brighter side, the only available seat was at the same table where Elizabeth sat. Although not next to her, he would still have the opportunity to spend the evening with her, which to him was a pleasant prospect, especially in comparison to Hugh's quiet hostility.

The conversation was interesting, if not lively, during the meal. Peter observed his mother amongst her friends, curious about the changes he'd noticed in her since she had left America. Elizabeth could feel William's gaze upon her throughout, although little dialogue was exchanged between them, and relished the heady feelings that stirred within her. Sir Percy was amusing, as usual, and Julianne, although reserved in her actions, took every opportunity she could to be in his company. Charlotte sat back observing her guests, noting that Elizabeth and Fitz had a sort of current flowing between them, an unspoken communication that they alone shared, and Charlotte's desire for information was augmented.

"Elizabeth," Charlotte solicited her friend's attention, "will you give me a hand with dessert?"

Upon hearing her name called, Elizabeth turned to her friend. "I'd love to."

Charlotte linked her arm with Elizabeth's as the two of them strolled into the kitchen. "There's nothing like an evening spent with good friends."

"And good food. Charlotte, you are an excellent cook." Elizabeth smiled, noticing the gleam in Charlotte's eye.

"Just something I love to do."

"That makes one of us." Elizabeth chuckled.

"We each have our own talents." Charlotte grinned before opening the oven door to check on the dessert pastries.

Eyeing her friend suspiciously, Elizabeth knew Charlotte was up to something. "Yes, we do."

Charlotte pulled the baking sheet out of the oven. "You, for instance, have such a knack for gaining a person's confidence."

Elizabeth furrowed her brow, baffled by Charlotte's comment. "Really?" she asked skeptically.

Nodding her head, Charlotte opened the refrigerator and removed several containers from inside, setting them on the counter top. "And yet, you let very few people into yours."

Scoffing, Elizabeth asked for clarification. "What do you mean, I let very few people into my confidence?"

"Just an observation." Charlotte shrugged her shoulders, then began assembling the Pavlova she had prepared for the final course.

"Hmmm...so, you think I'm holding out on you?" Elizabeth nudged Charlotte's arm.

"Do you think you're holding out on me?" Charlotte gave her a sideways glance.

Elizabeth guffawed. "Does this come naturally to you, or have you practiced the art of manipulation?"

Charlotte feigned a look of innocence. "I have no idea what you mean."

"Uh hmm." Elizabeth raised a single eyebrow.

Seeing Elizabeth's expression, Charlotte lost her composure. A smile crept onto her face as she began chuckling, and every time she faced her friend to speak, she laughed harder. Elizabeth, affected by the contagious laughter, joined in and when Julianne addressed them from the doorway with a perplexed look they found it difficult to contain their giggles.

"Are you two okay in here?"

"We're fine, Julianne." Charlotte beckoned to her. "Come give us a hand."

The three ladies quickly finished the preparations and Charlotte sent Julianne out with a tray of Pavlova smothered in strawberries and yogurt cream sauce. Taking Elizabeth's arm, Charlotte looked at her earnestly. "Tell me...what's going on with you and Fitz?"

Knowing that this was what Charlotte had been hinting about, Elizabeth returned her gaze. "What do you want to know?"

Surprised that Elizabeth was inviting her to ask instead of denying any involvement with Fitz, Charlotte thought for a moment. "Whatever you want to tell me."

"In that case, let's go have dessert." With a wink, Elizabeth turned and walked away.

Standing with her mouth agape, Charlotte shook her head. "Who's well practiced in the art of manipulation?" she muttered to herself before joining her guests on the veranda.

Later that night as Elizabeth and Peter were relaxing in the sitting room after their return from the Lucas', Elizabeth asked him about the evening. "It wasn't completely terrible now, was it?"

"No, not terrible at all."

Tucking her feet beneath her, Elizabeth settled on the sofa. "They all liked you - I heard nothing but compliments all night."

Peter smirked. "You should be used to that by now, Mom."

Shaking her head at her son, she tossed a pillow at him. "You are very full of yourself."

"I'm only kidding," he said, chuckling. "You, of all people, know how I dislike having so much attention poured on me."

"I do know." Elizabeth sipped her cup of hot lemon tea. "But it pleased me to hear praise of you tonight."

"Well, it's good to know I didn't suffer without cause." He chuckled.

Elizabeth laughed in response, then setting her teacup on the table leaned back, enjoying the relaxing company of her son as they fell into a comfortable silence.

Peter sat back in his chair, stretching his legs out on the ottoman in front of him. "That Hugh Darcy is a puzzle of a kid."

"That he is." Elizabeth grimaced as she recollected her encounters with the boy.

"But he's pretty funny."

Elizabeth's eyes widened in surprise. "Really?"

"Yeah, when you get him away from the adults, he opens up."

"So, what did the two of you talk about?" she asked, very curious about Hugh's behavior.

Peter shrugged. "Nothing much. Sports...cars...motorcycles...the U.S. - he was really curious about America."

"Hmmm."

"He's not a bad kid. I think he's just going through a tough time."

Elizabeth nodded in agreement. "I'm sure he is."

"You have an interesting group of friends here." Peter watched as his mother sat up straight on the sofa. "So, is Julianne Charlotte's cousin or her husband's?"

"She's Collins' cousin."

"She seems to be a nice woman."

Elizabeth sunk back into the couch. "Yes, she is."

"I'm surprised she's not married."

"Me too. I know it's rough for her. I wouldn't want to be a single woman out there."

Peter laughed aloud. "Mom, you are a single woman."

Grinning, Elizabeth shook her head. "No, I'm a widowed woman - I'm not out there looking to find a man."

Peter raised his brow. "You don't seem to have any trouble attracting men."

Nearly blushing from embarrassment, Elizabeth stared at her son. "What do you mean by that?"

"You have men hovering around you like moths to a flame. Sir Percy practically sprinted across the yard to greet you, and that Darcy guy stared at you constantly. Don't tell me you haven't noticed."

"I have noticed."

Peter drummed his fingers on the arm of his chair. "So, they've come crawling out of the woodwork since Dad's gone."

Elizabeth's eyes narrowed. "I wouldn't say that."

"Answer me this. Have they asked you out?"

"Who?"

"Sir Percy. Fitz Darcy."

Inhaling deeply, Elizabeth considered her response. "Yes."

"Both of them?"

"Yes."

Placing his feet on the floor, Peter leaned forward. "See what I mean - you have no trouble attracting men." He sighed softly. "So, did you go out with them?"

Elizabeth knew that someday she and Peter would have this conversation and had decided that she would be open with him, knowing that he was sensible and mature enough to deal with the fact that his mother might become involved with a man who was not his father.

"Yes, I did."

Peter sat momentarily silent, contemplating his mother's unexpected revelation. "Okay..." He nodded his head. "So, you're dating two strange Englishmen...are they decent guys? They treat you well, I hope."

An uneasy smile formed on her lips. "They're both good men, very gentlemanly."

With elbows on his knees, Peter rested his chin on his clasped hands. "I have to be honest with you, Mom." He ran his hands through his hair. "It's a little difficult...no, not difficult...it's a little uncomfortable for me to think about you going out with a guy who's not Dad."

Elizabeth's expression became tense. "I knew it would be." Leaning closer to her son, she placed her hand on his knee. "To be honest, it's been a strange experience for me as well."

Peter stared at his mother for several seconds. "It's not like I knew this would never happen..." He took her hand in his and held it gently. "You are a beautiful woman - it's no wonder."

As she gave his hand a squeeze, Elizabeth spoke warmly. "You are a good son, Peter. Thank you."

Looking up, a slight smile curled his lips. "Don't worry, Mom, I'll get used to this."

"I'm not worried about you, Son." She gave his hand another squeeze before easing it from his grip and sinking back comfortably on the sofa.

Settling back into the armchair, Peter once again sprawled out. "So...tell me...what do old people do on a date?"

She rolled her eyes at him, and before he could deflect it, a sofa pillow whacked the side of his head. "Old people." She harrumphed. "You know, you're just about as funny as your father."

"It could be worse...I could be as funny as Uncle Dave."

Elizabeth groaned. "Now that would definitely be worse."

Peter chuckled and they quickly lapsed into an agreeable silence.

After several minutes, Peter began to nod off. Elizabeth watched as his head bobbed before he jolted awake.

"I think I'll go to bed." He held his hand up, covering his mouth as he yawned. Standing, he stretched his limbs and before leaving the room, he kissed his mother on the cheek. "I love you, Mom."

Wrapping her arms around him, Elizabeth squeezed her son tightly. "I love you too."

Chapter Fifteen

A loud thunderclap rumbled. Elizabeth stirred in bed. A few minutes passed before another crash, louder and closer, sounded. Opening her eyes she looked around to see what had roused her when a flash of lightning caught her eye. One...two...three...she counted the seconds until a roar of thunder echoed in the distance. She could see the dark silhouette of the trees outside her window as they danced and swayed in the gusting wind. Pulling the blanket tightly around her, she curled up and lay still, listening to the drumming of the rain as it beat against the panes. The booming thunder grew louder as it neared, rattling the windows and walls of the old manor house.

From years of habit Elizabeth reached over, searching for comfort as the storm raged outside, but found nothing except blankets, sheets and the emptiness of her bed. Taking the pillow from the other side, she wrapped her arms around it, and shut her eyes to the howling tempest.

Several hours later Elizabeth was still clutching her husband's pillow when she awoke. Releasing it, she stretched out her limbs, noting the stillness in her room. She arose from her bed and crossed the floor. Outside her window the pale morning sky held wisps of the storm clouds that had passed through the night. As she opened the casement a gust of fresh air swept inside, billowing the curtains. Elizabeth inhaled deeply, looking out on the beautiful dawn.

Unable to resist the call of the emerging new day and the cool clean air, she quickly dressed and headed out for a morning jog. Unconsciously choosing the road to the east, she ran the same path she had taken on her last three runs, slowing her stride as she approached the gates of Pemberley. Stopping, she looked down the long drive, thinking about William and their encounters the previous day.

After Peter had gone to bed, Elizabeth remained downstairs, sipping her herbal tea and pondering the discussion she'd had with her son. His reaction to her dating had been what she'd expected, but she knew he would come to terms with it. "It is, after all, only a few dates..." she said to herself while biting her lower lip, "... nothing more than that ...well ... a little more than that..."

She had been alone with William twice that day, and on both occasions she had eagerly pressed her lips to his. Their exchange in Charlotte's kitchen was far from dispassionate, and the feelings that kindled inside her were not inconsiderable - this she could not deny. But a lifetime of experience had taught Elizabeth that rushing headlong into a new situation was inadvisable, especially when more than her emotions were involved. "We've known each other a month, and have spent a great deal of time together, becoming very close friends...but our hearts are not entangled...we're very good friends...extremely good friends..." As she reasoned with herself, Elizabeth stood and languidly paced the room. Wandering to the bookcase, she absently pulled a book from the shelf, leafing through the pages as she returned to her seat. For half an hour Elizabeth sat reading before finally feeling settled enough to retire for the evening.

Turning away from the gate, she began a quick walk down the road toward Cresthaven. As she approached the perimeter of Pemberley, Elizabeth noticed that a large branch of an ancient oak tree had split from the trunk and lay broken across the aging stone wall, which bordered the estate. She stopped and leaned over the low wall to take a closer look at the damaged limb. That was quite a storm last night. Plucking a leaf from the old tree, Elizabeth resumed her brisk pace, twirling the leaf between her thumb and forefinger as she headed home.

Greeting Bessie as she entered the house, Elizabeth made her way to the sitting room where Peter sat reading in the armchair near the window.

"Morning, Mom." He looked up from the book he held in his lap.

"Good morning." Sitting down on the sofa, she set the oak leaf next to her then reached down to untie her shoes. "Did the storm wake you last night?"

Peter nodded. "It did. Those were strong winds."

"They were." Elizabeth removed her shoes and socks and rubbed her bare feet.

Holding up the book for his mother to see, Peter commented, "I didn't know you liked to read Byron."

Elizabeth looked at the title - Selected Poetry of Lord Byron - the book she had been reading last night. "I've only recently learned to appreciate him."

"Is this poem a favorite of yours?" Peter showed her the dog-eared page he had been perusing. "She Walks in Beauty?"

"I do like that poem ... a great deal." Elizabeth smiled.

Peter shook his head. "It's hard for me to picture you reading romantic poetry."

Taking the volume from his hand, Elizabeth placed the leaf on the open page, closed the book and stood. "Like I've said, there is much you don't know about your mother." She ruffled his hair. "Let's get ready for breakfast." Tucking the book under her arm, she reached down, gathered her footwear, and headed upstairs to get cleaned up before joining her son at the table for the morning meal.

"What would you like to do today?" Elizabeth asked Peter.

"I was thinking of taking Horatio out for a ride." Peter looked out the window. "The day's turned out fairly nice. Would you like to join me?"

"Yes, I would."

"Great." Peter smiled at his mother. "Let's go out this afternoon - give it some more time to dry up out there."

That afternoon, after traversing the quiet country road to the north of Cresthaven Elizabeth and Peter led their mounts across an open field toward a heavily wooded grove, unaware of the dark blue Mercedes slowing down as the driver watched the pair of equestrians ride into the distance.

Recognizing the riders as Elizabeth and her son, William pressed his foot to the accelerator, speeding home to Pemberley. Loosening his necktie as he anxiously opened the front door, he crossed the threshold and quickly strode to the staircase, taking two stairs at a time up to his chambers. After shedding his suit and tie, William slipped into a pair of jeans and a loose fitting shirt. He rolled the long sleeves up as he left his room, hurrying down the hallway. When he reached the top of the stairs, the sound of a door closing hard caught his attention. Turning to look down the hall, he surmised that the door he heard was Hugh's, and that his son was, most likely, alone in his room, sulking.

William rubbed his forehead, took a deep breath, and walked slowly down the corridor to Hugh's bedroom. He knocked on the closed door and could hear movement from behind it. The door opened a crack and Hugh's face appeared in the empty space. "Yeah?" the boy grunted.

"How are you, Son?" William asked as Hugh slowly widened the crack.

Hugh shrugged his shoulders. "Okay."

"I was thinking..." William paused momentarily. "I was wondering if you'd like to go riding with me this afternoon."

He didn't speak a word, but Hugh's eyes brightened as he swung the door completely open.

"There's a broken limb on one of the oak trees near the western wall. I thought maybe we could have a look, see the damage." William raised his brow, awaiting the boy's response.

"Sure."

"Good." Nodding his head, William smiled. "I'll meet you in the stable."

As William and Hugh rode out to the edge of their land, William's eyes drifted out toward the hillside where he had seen Elizabeth riding earlier. Where was she riding? Is she somewhere on Pemberley's grounds? Is she still out there? His desire to spur his horse in that direction was immense. To see her again ... be near her ... touch her ... smell her...

"Which tree was it, Dad?" Hugh broke into his reverie.

Turning his attention to his son, William realized that his mooning over Elizabeth could ruin this opportunity he had with Hugh. So, pushing all thoughts of her from his mind, he gave Hugh his undivided attention as the two of them rode out and examined the injured oak, deciding to call in an expert in hope that the tree might be saved.

Elizabeth and Peter reined in their horses as they approached the road leading to Cresthaven. They had been riding for two hours and Elizabeth was longing to get out of the saddle. Peter had chosen open fields to run Horatio, and his mother, not accustomed to the pace Peter kept, was feeling the impact of every one of Thor's hoof beats. She moaned as she dismounted at Cresthaven's stable. "I think I'm feeling every one of my years now," she said as she slowly led the horse to its stall.

Peter chuckled, and waited until his mother was inside the stable before he reached back to rub his backside. He groaned lightly, then led Horatio in.

At the supper table, Elizabeth sat back, staring at nothing in particular on the opposite wall, thinking aloud. "We should host a dinner here at Cresthaven."

"A dinner?" Peter questioned.

Elizabeth turned to face her son, her eyes lighting up as she thought about the prospect of a small party at her home. "Yes. Let's have a barbeque in the backyard. Before you leave ... we can do it, let's see ... tomorrow's too soon ... we can do it the following day ... we can invite everyone I know here ... no, not everyone ... just those I like the best..."

"You want to do this on Wednesday?"

"Yes, if I call everyone tonight that will give them enough notice and it wouldn't take much preparation since we'll be grilling outside." She stood up. "We'll do it." She moved to leave.

He grabbed her arm before she walked away. "But you can at least finish eating dinner tonight, can't you?"

Laughing, Elizabeth sat back down. "I'm sorry, I just got a little carried away."

After the dinner table was cleared, Peter borrowed his mother's laptop to collect his email messages, settling himself at the table in the sitting room. Elizabeth used the portable phone in the same room to call her friends and extend the invitations for dinner on Wednesday.

"I think it's a lovely idea. Do you need any help with the meal?" Charlotte asked after Elizabeth informed her of the plan.

"No, thank you, Charlotte. I have Bessie and Peter to help." Elizabeth glanced over at her son as he intently typed on the keyboard.

"If you're certain. Ring me if you need anything."

Elizabeth nodded. "I will. Thanks."

Sir Percy was pleased with the idea of another friendly, informal gathering, especially after Elizabeth assured him that Julianne had been included in the Lucas' invitation.

Looking over at Peter, Elizabeth decided to leave the room to make her last call. Holding the phone to her ear, she stood on the back porch waiting for her call to be answered. After the third ring, her countenance lifted when she heard the voice on the other end of the line. "Darcy."

"William..."

"Elizabeth! How are you, love?"

It felt as if her heart would leap out of her chest. "I'm well, I..."

"I've been thinking about you all evening. I'm so glad you rang, is everything all right?"

"Yes, I'm just calling to invite you to a barbeque here on Wednesday."

"Wednesday?" He paused and Elizabeth could hear paper rustling. "Wednesday looks fine."

"Wonderful." Elizabeth stepped off the porch and strolled down the garden path, the brightness of the moon lighting her way. "I'd like you to bring Hugh and Ian along with you."

William chuckled. "Ian, I'm certain, would love to come, and I think Hugh will agree to it as well."

"Good. How is Hugh?"

"Interesting that you should ask..." William responded, and then told Elizabeth about the afternoon he had spent with his son, riding and tending to the oak tree.

"I saw that tree this morning and wondered if it would survive," Elizabeth mentioned.

"You saw the tree with the broken limb?" William questioned. "Here, at Pemberley?"

"I did, on my run this morning." She nodded, alone in the darkened garden. "I hope it can be saved."

William was silent for a moment. "As do I."

Elizabeth began to feel the chill of the night air, so headed back to the house. "William, I need to go in ... I'll see you on Wednesday."

"I'll be looking forward to it. Now, get inside before you catch cold," he scolded her.

She smiled to herself. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Elizabeth."

Peter was closing the laptop when Elizabeth entered the room. "Did you get all your calls made?" he asked.

"I did, and everyone will be able to attend." Setting the phone back in its cradle, Elizabeth sunk down into the plush sofa.

"So, it'll be the same group as last night?"

"Essentially...Fitzwilliam Darcy will bring his younger son Ian."

"Hugh has a brother?"

Bobbing her head, Elizabeth answered, "A half brother."

"How many times has this guy been married?" His eyebrows knit.

Elizabeth tilted her head to one side as she noticed Peter's expression change. "He's been married twice."

"And both ended in divorce?"

After a moment's hesitation, Elizabeth responded. "Yes, he's been married and divorced twice."

Peter made no audible reply, just sat back in his chair as a scowl furrowed his brow.

Elizabeth watched her son's reaction and wondered what was going through his mind. "Will you help me with the preparations tomorrow?" she asked.

Looking up, he nodded. "Yes ... you know I will."

He smiled at her, but Elizabeth could tell that he was thinking heavily about the information she had given him concerning William and his marriages. Perhaps I should tell him more about William ... She pursed her lips as she thought to herself. Or maybe I should let him come to know William on his own...if I push the issue, it may sound as if I'm defending William...I don't want Peter to think I'm hopelessly in love with the man...

The ringing telephone interrupted both Elizabeth's and Peter's reflections. "Hello?" she said as she picked the receiver up, holding it next to her ear.

A female voice crossed the line. "Hello, is Peter there?"

Elizabeth's eyes opened wide as she looked at her son. "Peter? Yes, he's here."

Peter's expression went blank as his mother eyed him, her face wreathed in amused curiosity.

"May I tell him who's calling?"

As she asked the question, Peter cringed. He knew who was on the line, the only one he had given this number to before he'd left for England.

"Yes, please tell him it's Alicia."

"Of course." Elizabeth's smile widened a she watched Peter squirm in his seat. "I'll let him know." Placing a hand over the mouthpiece, Elizabeth held it out to her son. "There's an Alicia on the line for you. Shall I take a message?"

Jumping up from his chair, he quickly took the phone from his mother. "No, I'll talk to her." With a reddening face, he turned away and rushed out of the room before answering the call.

"So, who's Alicia?" Elizabeth asked when Peter walked back into the sitting room nearly an hour later.

Setting the phone down, he took a seat in the chair near the window. "She's a girl I know."

Elizabeth glanced at the mantel clock. "You must know her very well to spend an hour on the telephone with her." She threw him a questioning look. "Where did you meet her?"

Taking a deep breath, he settled back into the armchair. "School, we had a class together last semester."

With her feet tucked beneath her, Elizabeth leaned on the arm of the sofa. "Are you dating her?"

Passing his hand over his face, he rubbed his eyes with thumb and forefinger. "Yes, we've been dating."

"Exclusively? Or have you given this number to dozens of girls?" she asked with a glint in her eye.

He chuckled. "This past month or so we've dated exclusively." Running his hand through his hair, he scratched his scalp before he hesitantly continued. "But I haven't seen her since the semester ended - she's back home in Florida."

"Really?" Elizabeth's expression became serious. "How do you feel about this girl? Do you love her?"

"I don't know..." Peter threw his head back and tightly grabbed the arms of the chair. "I think I do ... I've never felt like this about anyone I've dated ... she's not like any girl I've ever met before..."

Elizabeth smiled at her son, then reached over to place her hand on his. "It sounds like you might love her." She gave his hand a squeeze. "Give it time, you'll know before too long."

For the next hour, Elizabeth listened as Peter told her how he had met Alicia, and about how smart and pretty and funny she was, and how his feelings for her had evolved into a jumble of confusion inside him. And with a mother's wisdom, Elizabeth lovingly questioned and advised her son in this delicate matter of the heart.

The next morning Elizabeth was up early, and again left for a run as soon as the sky was light. And once again, her feet traveled the road that led to the gates of Pemberley. As she slowed her steps to turn and head back to Cresthaven, she heard her name called from down the long drive.

"Elizabeth!"

Stopping, she looked past the closed gates and to her surprise saw William, dressed in a sweatshirt, shorts and running shoes, jogging toward her. She stood silent, catching her breath, as he opened the gate and joined her on the empty lane.

"Do you mind if I tag along?"

"I was just turning to go home." Elizabeth smoothed her hair back, thinking about how awful she must look with no make-up on and perspiration beading her face.

"If you'd rather I didn't, I could just run on the opposite side," he said playfully as he moved to cross the road.

Laughing, she grabbed his arm to stop him. "No, stay right here by my side ... I have no objections."

William looked at her intently. "That's my fondest wish."

"Come on, you." She elbowed his side then took off running.

Within three strides William was at her side and the pair jogged silently toward Cresthaven. When they reached the long driveway to Elizabeth's residence, they slowed down to a walk.

"What plans have you and your son made for his visit?" William asked as they strolled leisurely toward the house.

"This week we're staying in Derbyshire - we're having the barbeque tomorrow night, of course, and Sir Percy said something about an outdoor performance of The Merry Wives of Windsor this weekend in Lambton. Did he happen to mention it to you?"

"He did. He thought it would be enjoyable for all of us to go together."

Elizabeth glanced over at William. "So, are you planning to go?"

"To see the play?"

She looked up at him, wrinkling her brow. "Yes, are you going to see the play?" she repeated slowly.

With a faint smile, he looked down at her. "I wanted to ask you if you'd join me, but I suppose you'll want to go with your son."

"I wouldn't want to leave Peter alone for the evening." She ran her hand along the hedgerow that edged the drive. "But I don't see why you can't pick us both up on your way."

The smile on William's face broadened. "If your son doesn't mind, I'd like that very much."

"You could bring Hugh with you, or does he dislike that sort of entertainment?"

"He and I have been to the theater in London, I think he would enjoy this performance, but I'm not certain he'll come with us." William grimaced.

"There's only one way to find out." She smiled tenderly as she patted his arm.

As her hand slid away, William grabbed hold of it, pulling her closer to his side. "I'll ask him."

They walked along in comfortable silence as they approached the garden gate. Stopping at the end of the drive, William released Elizabeth's hand, then reaching up, repositioned a displaced lock of her hair. "What other plans have you made?"

"Peter wants to spend some time in London next week." Elizabeth shrugged her shoulders. "We're thinking about possibly going to Calais, maybe even Paris before he leaves."

"Paris?"

Nodding, she looked down at her hands. "I think country life is a bit too sedate for him." Raising her eyes, she smiled up at him. "But it suits me very well."

"Hmmm..." A satisfied look passed over William's face. "I'm glad."

When Peter awoke early, he wandered downstairs to locate his mother after getting no response when he knocked on her bedroom door. Not finding her in the kitchen or sitting room, he returned upstairs to shower and dress. Standing at his bedroom window looking out on the garden as he towel dried his hair, he noticed his mother walking up the path with Fitz Darcy. They were talking and laughing, and although he couldn't hear their conversation, Peter sensed that the two were much closer than his mother had implied.

Seeing his mother casually strolling alongside this man, with her shoulder occasionally brushing against his arm, raised Peter's hackles. Why is she out with him this time of the morning? Does she go out with him everyday? There's more to this than she wants to tell me ... Peter raked his hand through his damp hair, keeping his eyes locked on the pair outside until they were no longer in his field of vision. The guy's been married and divorced twice ... what does she think she's doing?

Pacing the floor in his room, Peter deliberated about what he should say to his mother, if anything at all. She is, after all, a grown woman, capable of making her own choices...but does she know anything about this guy? He sat down on the edge of his bed, cradling his head in his hands. He never expected his mother to remain alone after his father had died, and, deep down, he didn't want her to be alone. But seeing her interacting like this with a man he didn't even know was distressing to him. Last night, he had mentioned his feelings to Alicia, and she had told him to not be childish about his mother dating. "Would you begrudge her a little happiness?" she had asked him after hearing his complaints and concerns.

"No," he said aloud. "I won't stand in her way if she's happy...as long as this guy treats her well." Peter rose and finished dressing before heading down for breakfast.

Elizabeth was in the kitchen when Peter entered the room. "Good morning, Son."

"Morning." He crossed the room and kissed his mother on the cheek. "Have you been out for your run?"

"I have." She nodded as she continued cutting orange slices.

Peter leaned against the counter, watching her intently. "Do you run every morning?"

"Not every morning, but at least four days a week."

He stood silent for several minutes while Elizabeth continued working. "Does Charlotte ever run with you?"

She guffawed. "Are you joking? Charlotte run?" Elizabeth looked at her son, amused. "Unless it's in the direction of a shoe store, you'll never see Charlotte running." Peter's expression remained serious, raising Elizabeth's concern. "Why do you ask?"

Shrugging his shoulders, he reached over, took the knife from his mother's hand and began slicing the strawberries she had just hulled. "I was only wondering if it was safe for you to be out jogging alone."

"This is a very safe, quiet neighborhood." Elizabeth eyed him curiously. "And this morning I wasn't by myself. Fitzwilliam Darcy was out running and joined me."

"Oh..." Peter kept his eyes on the cutting board. "Do you see him often?"

As Elizabeth washed her hands, she speculated about the meaning behind Peter's questions. Did he see me with William this morning? She watched him as he steadfastly quartered the berries on the board. He must have. "Yes, I've seen him quite frequently these past few weeks."

The knife in Peter's hand became still. "How do you feel about this guy?" He turned to look at her, his mien serious. "Do you love him?"

Elizabeth raised her brow, surprised at her son's inquiry, yet amused that he posed the exact questions she had asked him about Alicia. "I enjoy spending time with this guy, but it's a bit premature to be talking about love."

Peter's jaw tightened as he laid down the knife. "Oh."

"Oh? Is that all you have to say?" Elizabeth questioned.

"That's the only thing I can think to say right now, Mom." He pursed his lips, then turned to wash his hands. As he grabbed the towel to dry his hands, he added, "I think I'll take Horatio out for a ride. I don't know when I'll be back." And before Elizabeth had time to respond, he quickly left the house.

Chapter Sixteen

The wind whipped his hair as he galloped Horatio across the meadow. Alicia's words kept running through his head, "Don't be childish," and he knew she was right. He was acting childish and he needed to stop.

As he approached a dense coppice Peter drew in the reins, bringing his horse to a halt. In the shade of the trees he dismounted, and after tethering Horatio he sat down upon a fallen log. With his head in his hands he slowed his breathing and tried to calm his thoughts. He couldn't remember the last time he had been upset with his mother, and now as he sat alone in the wood he endeavored to discover why he was reacting so irrationally. So ... she's seeing this guy ... she's only known a month ... who's had two marriages ended in divorce ... why should that bother me?

Peter stood and paced the grove. Because I don't know anything about him ... or his marriages...or what type of man he is ... or what his intentions are ... Sighing deeply, he hung his head and sat back down. Or what Mom's thinking ... He raked his hand through his hair. She didn't say she loved him ... she only said that she enjoyed spending time with him ... it's not as if she's running off to marry the guy. Standing again, he continued to pace, trying to work out his thoughts and feelings about his mother and her relationship with Fitzwilliam Darcy.

In the shadow of the trees he was unable to distinguish the sun climbing to its zenith, so when he finally emerged he was surprised to find it perched high in the clear azure sky. Having been completely preoccupied with his thoughts as he rode out that morning, he couldn't remember from which direction he had traveled and what landmarks he may have passed on his way, so he took the course that seemed most familiar.

Stopping at the crest of a large hill, he gazed out onto the valley below, impressed by the verdant beauty surrounding him. A small country church nestled amongst a large cluster of trees caught his eye as he scanned the vista. The scene looked vaguely familiar, but he knew he had never been here before. As he sat on the hilltop contemplating the view, hunger pangs reminded him that it had been hours since he had left the house. His mother was probably wondering where he was - he should find his way home.

Turning in the saddle he looked around, and through the sparse foliage in the distance he could see a stonewall and the roof of a large house. Gently urging Horatio, he headed in the direction of it. As he rode alongside the aging wall, Peter was able to view the splendor of the grand estate it protected, and as he wound his way down the gently sloping hillside, he espied a paved lane. He spurred his horse to move faster, anxious to discover if this road would lead him back to Cresthaven.

The sound of hoof beats drew the attention of William and Hugh as they stood conversing with the man who had come to inspect the damaged oak tree. As the horse neared William recognized the rider and watched as he approached, curious to see if he was alone.

"Pete!" Hugh called out when he realized who was on the horse.

Surprised to hear his son yelling out, William stared at Hugh running toward the wall to greet Peter as he halted his mount near the broken tree. Hugh scaled the low wall and began speaking to the new arrival. William looked on with great interest. Although he couldn't hear the exchange between the two young men, he watched in amazement as his usually sullen teenager spoke eagerly to Elizabeth's son.

"I think we can save it, Mr. Darcy," the tree man said as he slowly circled the broad oak. "The tree is sound...with proper care it should survive once we've removed the limb."

A look of confusion momentarily crossed William's face as he turned to hear what the man had said. "You can save it?"

"Yes, sir," he answered, unaffected by William's distraction.

"That's fantastic news." William ran his hand across the wide trunk. "I'm glad to hear it."

Scribbling notes on the clipboard he carried, he gave a copy of the estimate to William before leaving. "I can get started in an hour."

"Fine." William watched him walk away before shifting toward the perimeter wall. As he joined Hugh and Peter he extended his hand to the visitor. "Nice to see you, Peter."

Peter hesitated before reaching out to take William's hand. "Yeah...you too."

Noting the icy tone of Peter's voice and his reluctance to shake hands, William wondered at the reason behind it. "That's a magnificent horse you have." He gestured toward the stallion.

Looking at Horatio, Peter nodded. "Thanks."

"Have you been riding long this morning?" William questioned.

"Yes."

"You must be feeling a bit peckish. Why don't you come inside for a bite?" William motioned toward the house.

Surprised by the offer Peter stared at William, then glanced back toward his horse and began to stammer a reply when Hugh interjected, "Come on, Pete. After we eat, you and I can ride out together."

"I've been gone for quite a while ... I really should get back..."

"You can call your mother from the house," William said as he placed his hand on Peter's shoulder, urging him to join them for their midday meal.

Peter looked around to see Hugh climb over the wall and gather Horatio's reins before leading the horse off to the stable. "Okay."

Elizabeth was standing at the kitchen sink looking out the window as she drained steaming water from the pot of boiled potatoes she held, when she noticed two horses trotting up the drive. Setting down the kettle, she watched as Peter and Hugh neared the house.

When Peter had called to inform her of his whereabouts she had been surprised, yet relieved to know he was all right, but then became apprehensive about how he would behave toward William. When she thought of Hugh and his sullen moods and erratic behavior, her anxiety increased - Elizabeth worried about the outcome of their meeting, especially given Peter's state of mind when he had left the house.

"Master Peter has returned," Bessie announced when she watched the two horsemen dismount. "And he's brought company with him."

"Yes, I see," Elizabeth replied as she wiped her hands dry.

Peter entered the room and held the door open for his companion. Elizabeth glanced at Hugh who stood silent, appearing almost nervous as he watched Peter cross the room to greet her.

After kissing her cheek, Peter gave her a quick hug. "I'm sorry."

Elizabeth raised her brow, casting her son a questioning look.

"We'll talk later." He took hold of her hand, giving it a squeeze before releasing it.

Relaxing, she smiled as she realized that Peter had come to some sort of understanding regarding her relationship with William, but she was anxious to hear what her son had to tell her about his encounter with William and Hugh. "Hello, Hugh." Elizabeth smiled kindly at the visitor.

Hugh nodded his head. "Hello."

"We just came by for a minute." Peter motioned for Hugh to follow him as he crossed the room. "There's something I wanted to show Hugh, and then we're going out riding."

Elizabeth watched the two young men exit the room and could hear their footsteps pounding the staircase moments later. Smiling, she once again turned her attention to the potatoes, and after several minutes Peter and Hugh reappeared carrying a disc player and a handful of CD's.

"I'll be back later," Peter said as he hurried to the door, and just as he turned the handle, he stopped. Looking back at his mother, he felt a rush of guilt. "I told you I'd help with preparations..."

"Don't worry about it." Elizabeth chuckled, happy to see her son befriending Hugh. "Go have fun - there's still plenty for you to help with."

"Thanks, Mom." Peter smiled and waved as he ushered Hugh outside.

"Here you are," Peter exclaimed as he approached the garden, finding his mother picking vegetables alongside Ralph and Bessie. "I've been looking all over for you."

Elizabeth looked up with a smile. "Did you have a nice time?"

"Yeah." He sat down on a garden bench.

"Where did you go?" Elizabeth asked, curious about the time her son had spent with Hugh Darcy.

Peter shrugged his shoulders. "We rode around Pemberley's grounds and hung out at his house for a while."

Standing, she brushed the dirt off her legs. "Hung out?"

"Yeah, hung out ... talked ... listened to music ... it's been a long time since I've just hung out, and Hugh's a cool kid."

Picking up a full basket of vegetables, Elizabeth addressed Ralph and Bessie. "I'll start working on these."

Taking the container from her hand, Peter walked with his mother to the house. "What's with all the vegetables?"

"They're for the party. I'm going to use them as part of the buffet table decoration as well as for consumption."

He chuckled. "Only you and Martha Stewart..."

She gave him a sideways glance. "What do you mean by that?"

Shaking his head, his mouth formed a lopsided grin. "Just that you and Martha both use food as an art form, whereas most people use food as a source of sustenance."

"Presentation is everything, Son." Elizabeth arched an eyebrow. "You should know that by now, your father repeated it often enough."

Peter smiled, nodding his head. "I remember."

They walked silently up the path to the back door, and upon entering the kitchen Peter placed the basket on the counter. Elizabeth emptied the contents into colanders and setting them in the sink, ran cold water over the fresh produce.

Pacing across the room, Peter thought about what he wanted to say to his mother concerning his behavior that morning, but wasn't certain how to broach the topic. "Mom ... I ... " Moving closer to the sink, he continued. "...I was thinking about how I acted this morning..."

Shutting the faucet off, Elizabeth looked at him, her eyes filled with understanding as she waited for him to proceed.

"...and I just wanted to tell you that I completely overreacted." He inhaled deeply. "I'm sorry. I'm not angry ... I just wasn't prepared ... I hadn't thought about you dating." As he spoke he began to again pace the floor. "It's just a little weird for me because I've only seen you with Dad, and I just freaked when I saw you with Fitz Darcy ... so, I've been thinking ... just because you're dating the man doesn't mean that you love him ... or that you're going to marry him..."

Elizabeth watched her son intently as he walked about, his hands beginning to move quickly as he spoke.

"...I mean, I've dated dozens of girls and the thought of marriage has never really crossed my mind ... at least not until recently ... so, anyway, I thought, why should it bother me if you date Fitz? You're only spending time with him, not marrying him." Peter stopped pacing as he finished speaking and looked at his mother to await her response.

Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth stood momentarily silent. "I understand. I would probably feel the same way if I were in your shoes."

Crossing the room, Peter hugged her. "So you're not upset with me?"

"Not at all."

"Thanks, Mom."

As Elizabeth held her son she reflected on what he had said; "just because you're dating the man doesn't mean that you love him ... or that you're going to marry him..." She pulled out of their embrace and looked up at him. "You never told me - how was your lunch at Pemberley?"

A thoughtful expression crossed his face. "It was okay."

"The food was okay? Or was it the company?" Elizabeth asked curiously.

Peter chuckled. "The food was okay - not exactly what I like to eat." Leaning back on the counter, he hoisted himself up to sit, until the reproving look on his mother's face changed his mind. Wearing a sheepish grin, he lowered himself back down and rested his weight against the cabinet. "I had a good time ... talked mostly with Hugh ... his Dad was busy, but I did spend a little time with him."

Not certain if she wanted to ask openly or fish for information, Elizabeth unconsciously bit her lip. "What did you talk about?"

"With Fitz?"

She nodded in response.

"Nothing really." He ran his hand through his hair. "We talked about the broken tree, and the party here tomorrow."

"Anything else?"

"If you mean, did I talk to him about you? The answer is no." Peter placed his hands on the countertop and nearly lifted himself up again to take a seat, but stopped short of it. "We didn't talk about you at all ... no, actually, we did ... at least he did."

Elizabeth's eyes widened, but she said nothing.

"He mentioned that he's been spending some time with you, and that he thinks you're smashing, or something like that." Peter shrugged as he finished speaking.

"Smashing?" Elizabeth raised a brow in question.

Nodding his head, Peter chuckled. "I believe that's what the man said."

"And what did you say to him?"

"I didn't really say anything - only that you had already mentioned that you and he had been seeing each other."

A contented smile passed over Elizabeth's face as she thought about how fortunate she was to have such a reasonable son - one who, in spite of his own feelings, displayed maturity and good sense even when facing an uncomfortable situation. "I'm glad you two crossed paths - thank you for being civil to him."

"There's no reason to not be civil."

"Well, thank you." She patted his arm, then once again turned on the faucet to wash vegetables as she grinned to herself, reflecting on what Peter had told her. He thinks I'm smashing? Hmmm...

Wednesday was spent preparing for the party and all the occupants of Cresthaven were busy cooking, cleaning, setting up tables and chairs in the garden and creating a pleasant atmosphere for the expected guests. Peter laughed as his mother fussed over the arrangement of the fruits and vegetables on the table. "Mom, I think you're going a little overboard here. I mean, really, using hollowed out cabbages as bowls for dips - this was supposed to be a simple barbeque."

Elizabeth wagged her finger at him. "It's not everyday I get the urge to cook and entertain, so just let me be."

Peter sidled next to his mother at the buffet, and after a moment's contemplation reached down to reposition a bunch of grapes. "There..." he said as he stepped away, "...it's perfect ... no, wait." He moved another cluster of grapes then stood back to examine his handiwork. "Now it's perfect."

Crossing her arms in front of her, Elizabeth glanced at him from the corner of her eye, but made no verbal response.

Taking a carrot from the display, Peter dipped it into one of the cabbage bowls and took a bite of it. Nodding his head, he noisily crunched the crisp, raw vegetable. "Mmmm ... I think the cabbage really adds to this dip," he said with an exaggerated tone.

Rolling her eyes, Elizabeth shook her head, trying to suppress a grin. "That's enough from you, young man."

"What?" He feigned a look of innocence. "You don't believe me? Try some yourself." As he reached for another carrot, the sound of an unfamiliar voice caught his ear. Turning around, Peter saw a young boy running across the yard toward his mother.

"Ian!" Elizabeth held her arms open wide to greet the boy with a hug.

Grinning, Peter looked at the scene with amusement. As long as he could remember, his mother seemed to always have children surrounding her - if it wasn't her nieces and nephews, it was neighborhood kids or friends of his. "This must be the Ian I've heard so much about," Peter said when Ian let go of Elizabeth.

Elizabeth introduced Ian to her son. "Yes, this is Ian Darcy, Hugh's brother."

"I'm glad to finally meet you, Ian." Peter shook the boy's hand.

Ian looked up at Peter, furrowing his brow. "You don't look like Elizabeth."

Peter chuckled. "I don't?"

Shaking his head, Ian examined Peter from head to toe. "No."

Laughing, Elizabeth placed her arm across Ian's shoulder. "Peter has always looked more like his father, just like you look more like yours."

"Pete." Hugh called out as he and his father joined them.

As he looked up at the new arrivals, Peter tipped his head at Hugh. "How's it goin'?"

Hugh nodded. "All right."

Elizabeth turned to greet her guests. "Hugh, William, I'm so glad to see you."

A slight bob of his head was Hugh's only response, but William took her hand and leaned in, placing a lingering kiss on her cheek. "Hello, Elizabeth," he said softly in her ear.

Her eyes brightened as she pulled away, locking her gaze with his. "You're the first to arrive." Breaking her stare, she motioned toward the buffet. "You can help yourself. We have cold drinks over there." She pointed to a table in the shade of a small oak.

As Peter led Hugh and Ian across the lawn, William once again took Elizabeth's hand in his. "It appears you've been busy." He gestured toward the arrangement of food on the table.

"I have - we all have."

"I spent some time with Peter yesterday, but I'm certain he told you that." Still holding her hand, he slowly led her to the array of fruits, vegetables, breads and cheeses. "We talked for a short while."

"Yes, he did tell me."

"He didn't have much to say concerning the time you and I spend together. I get the impression he doesn't approve of me." William picked up a large strawberry from a basket and bit into it.

"I think Peter's coming to terms with the fact that his mother is dating a man who's not his father."

"So, I shouldn't take it personally?"

"Did he give you cause to take it personally?" she asked with concern.

Pursing his lips, William shook his head. "No ... I just..." Pausing, he sighed softly then squeezed her hand. "I'm just fretting a bit."

Elizabeth looked at him curiously. "Fretting? About what?"

From across the yard, Sir Percy called out as he and Julianne approached. "Elizabeth! Fitz!"

Glancing over, Elizabeth waved to them before turning back. "William, what's the matter?"

Raising his hand, he looked at their intertwined fingers before placing a kiss on the back of her hand and releasing it. "Nothing's the matter."

"Truly?"

His lips tightened into a crooked smile. "Yes, truly." He tipped his chin toward Sir Percy and Julianne as they neared. "You have company."

Knitting her brow, she cast him a worried glance before turning to welcome her guests with a smile.

"This looks fabulous," Julianne exclaimed as she gave Elizabeth a quick hug.

"Oh, thank you." Lowering her voice to a whisper, Elizabeth leaned in close to Julianne's ear so as to not be overheard. "What's going on with you and Sir Percy?"

A broad smile covered Julianne's face. "We've spent the day together. He took me to Chatsworth - we lunched and walked the gardens." She sighed. "It's been a wonderful day."

As she looked at the dreamy expression on her companion's face, Elizabeth smiled. "It sounds like it."

"Come, what are you two whispering about?" Sir Percy called out to the ladies. "If you're talking about me, you must let me in on it."

"We must?" Elizabeth cast a mischievous expression as she looked at the inquiring gentleman. "And what makes you think we're talking about you?"

Sir Percy smiled smugly. "Well..."

"Of all the subjects in the universe to discuss, why would we choose you?" Before Sir Percy could respond, Elizabeth winked at William, took hold of Julianne's arm, and led her across the garden.

With a slight shake of his head, William smiled as he watched Elizabeth walk away, amused with her playfulness, and elated to have this woman in his life - he felt so alive when he was near her, and the more time he spent with her, the more he longed to be with her.

"I don't know what you see in her, Fitz." Sir Percy chuckled. "She has to be the most..."

"Delightful woman I've ever met." William kept his eyes fixed on Elizabeth's retreating figure. "I believe that's how you once described her to me." Turning to face his old friend, William grinned. "I must say, Percy, you've always been an excellent judge of character." With a hand on Sir Percy's shoulder, William urged him toward the far side of the garden. "Come on, old man. Let's discover what those delightful ladies are discussing."

Sitting cross-legged at the edge of the yard, Peter leaned forward, picking at the blades of grass in front of him. He glanced over at Hugh, who was sitting next to him leaning against the trunk of a tree, before looking up at the energetic ten-year-old hanging from the branches. "So, Ian, do you live with your dad?"

The boy dropped to the ground. "No."

"Why not?"

Sitting down next to his brother, Ian sipped his lemonade. "My parents are divorced."

Peter nodded his head. "I know, but why don't you live with your father?"

Hugh eyed Peter curiously, wondering about this interest in Ian's living arrangements, but remained silent.

Ian shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know."

Taking a handful of grass, Peter held up his closed fist and released the blades, watching them flutter to the ground. "Do you like your dad?"

With narrowed eyes, Hugh leaned forward to interject. "What's your point, Pete?"

"I'm just wondering if Ian likes your dad..." Peter gave Hugh a sideways glance. "You don't seem to."

Ian's eyes widened as he looked at his brother. "You don't like Dad?"

Closing his eyes, Hugh hung his head momentarily. "Yeah, Ian. I like Dad."

Relief washed over Ian's face after hearing Hugh's response. "I like Dad ... a lot."

"What do you like most about him?" Peter asked the boy.

Ian thought for a moment. "He's nice to me ... he plays football with me ... buys me things ... let's me ride horses..."

Peter chuckled. "So, he's a good dad?"

"Yeah," Ian replied enthusiastically.

Hugh nodded. "He is."

Wearing a curious expression, Ian looked at Peter. "Where's your dad?"

Leaning back, Peter ran his hand through his hair. "My father died last year."

"Your father died?" Hugh asked, astonished with this bit of information.

Nodding, Peter replied, "Almost a year ago - last August."

The three sat thoughtfully silent for a minute before Ian again turned to Peter. "Do you miss him?"

Peter sighed deeply. "I sure do."

"I don't want my dad to die," Ian said with worry in his voice.

Hugh looked at his brother with concern. "Dad's not going to die, Ian ... not yet anyway."

Once again, Ian's worries were pacified by Hugh's words.

"There's Hugh." Thomas motioned toward his friend across the yard and headed toward him. "See you later, Mum."

"Thomas." Charlotte called her son back. "No trouble from you today."

Sighing, he rolled his eyes. "Yes, Mum."

Maria stood behind Charlotte making faces at her brother as their mother spoke sternly to him.

Turning around, Charlotte took the girl's arm. "That stands for you as well, Maria."

Pouting, Maria hung her head.

"I want to have an enjoyable evening." With a stern look and a quick nod, Charlotte gestured for her two children to join Hugh and the others.

As she crossed the lawn to join the two couples already settled at one of the tables in the shade, Charlotte became more determined than ever to find out exactly what was going on between her friend and Fitz. She could see Fitz' arm draped across the back of Elizabeth's chair and although she couldn't see the expressions on their faces, Charlotte knew that they bore a look of affinity. She had known Fitz almost all her life and had never seen him pay so much attention to a woman. Not even Cecilia, and he was crazy about her, she thought, recalling Fitz' courtship with his first wife. Now look at him ... something's definitely going on with him ... Watching the couple in question, she continued toward the group. And Elizabeth ... her opinions seem to have altered - just two months ago she was telling me that she'd never love another man, now she's giving him looks, sneaking off with him, and she's not telling me anything. Charlotte smirked. I'll get to the bottom of this.

"Charlotte!" Julianne cried out when she noticed her cousin's approach, causing the others at the table to turn their attention.

Elizabeth stood and rushed to greet her with a hug. "I've been wondering if you were going to show up."

"I wouldn't miss your party, darling." Charlotte glanced over at Fitz. "I'd miss out on far too much."

Pulling out of the embrace, Elizabeth threw her friend a perplexed look, but said nothing as the others joined them.

"Where's Collins?" Sir Percy asked Charlotte.

"Out on business - he said he'd try to join us later."

"Tough luck." He rubbed his hands together. "Well then, Elizabeth, should we eat? I'm famished."

"I need to get the shrimp and steaks on the grill." Elizabeth hesitated, casting her eyes toward William. "Will you give me a hand?"

William's countenance brightened. "Of course."

"Why don't the rest of you fix a plate from the buffet while we take care of this." Elizabeth motioned toward the table before she and William headed for the kitchen.

As they stepped onto the back porch, they encountered Bessie and Ralph leaving the house, carrying several dishes.

"Oh, good. I told everyone to start eating - we still need to grill." Elizabeth held the door open. "Will you ask Peter to check the coals for me?"

"Certainly, dear," Bessie replied.

"Thank you," Elizabeth called out as she watched them begin down the pathway.

Looking in the refrigerator, Elizabeth located the containers and handed them to William before continuing her search to make sure she hadn't forgotten anything. "I think that's it." She closed the fridge door and turned around to leave, nearly bumping into William standing behind her, empty-handed. Arching back, she raised an inquiring brow at him.

Smiling, William lifted his hand to Elizabeth's face, tracing a finger along the curve of her cheek, before leaning down to gently kiss her lips. "I've been wanting to do that all evening."

"Really?" She looked up at him.

As William leaned in to kiss her again, Elizabeth placed her hands on his cheeks. "You know..."

His lips stopped her short, and as his arms wrapped around her waist, the kiss deepened and Elizabeth's fingers wound their way into his thick locks.

When William pulled away, he wore a dimpled smile. "What was it you were saying?"

Loosening her hold, Elizabeth ran her hands across his broad shoulders and down his arms. Repositioning her hands, she moved to wrap her arms around his waist, but instead tickled his sides, causing William to jump back. She laughed aloud. "I think we'd better get this food out there." Grabbing the containers off the countertop, she headed for the door. Shaking her head, she looked back at William. "I don't know what it is about you and kitchens..."

He laughed. "It seems to be the only place I can find you alone." He held the door for her. "I'll have to remedy that."

She arched a brow as she passed, wondering what he might have in mind.

Charlotte met the couple as they stepped onto the garden path. "Do you need help with anything?"

"I think we have everything well in hand," Elizabeth replied as she continued walking with William by her side.

"I'm sure you do." Arching her brow, Charlotte grinned impishly at the pair.

Noticing the peculiar glint in her friend's eye, Elizabeth furrowed her brow, and looked at Charlotte, mystified by her odd behavior. "Are you feeling well today, Charlotte?"

Charlotte's smile widened. "I'm feeling exceptionally well today. Why do you ask?"

Shaking her head, Elizabeth shrugged her shoulders. "You seem to be acting a bit odd, that's all."

"I'm acting odd?" Charlotte held her hand up, pointing to herself.

Raising her brow, Elizabeth nodded her head. "Definitely. Wouldn't you say so?" She turned to William.

Putting his hand up, he laughed aloud. "Don't get me involved in this." Taking the containers out of Elizabeth's hands, he walked swiftly away toward the barbeque grill, leaving the two women alone.

Cocking her head to the side, Elizabeth chuckled at her friend and opened her mouth to speak, but instead stood silent.

Charlotte looked at Elizabeth with a sportive smirk and a raised eyebrow. "Now, what was it you were you saying?"

Smiling, Elizabeth linked her arm in Charlotte's. "I think you're in an extraordinary mood today." Amused by her friend's behavior, Elizabeth decided that perhaps she should start cluing Charlotte in on the changes in her relationship with William. "There's something I think I should tell you, Charlotte. But first let's help William with the steaks, and after dinner you and I will take a walk."

A satisfied smile passed over Charlotte's face. "That's a wonderful idea."

After the meal, Elizabeth and Charlotte excused themselves to stroll down the long driveway. Fitzwilliam and Sir Percy sat in the shade, talking of old times, Julianne sat next to Sir Percy, listening and laughing at their tales, and Peter and the youngsters became involved in a noisy game of lawn bowls.

"I know you're wondering about what's going on between William and I." Elizabeth brushed her hand along the hedgerow.

Charlotte bobbed her head. "Yes."

Elizabeth fixed her gaze on the gravel drive. "I don't really know what to tell you, Charlotte."

"You can start by telling me why you've suddenly started calling him William." Charlotte cast her a sidelong glance.

Chuckling, Elizabeth looked at her friend. "I don't know why ... I just started calling him William and it's stuck." She motioned toward the front lawn. "Let's go sit down, I think this may take a while."

The two ladies sat down on the grass and Elizabeth opened up to her friend, telling her about the times she and William had spent together and how her sentiments had begun to change, and how she was still uncertain about him and her feelings for him. Charlotte listened to Elizabeth and offered little in response.

"I've known Fitz a long time, and he's definitely had a rough time where women are involved, and I don't know what to tell you other than he's a good man and I've never seen him act this way before." Charlotte took hold of Elizabeth's hand. "Know this, Elizabeth. If you ever need to talk about this, or anything, you can come to me. I'm your friend and I'm here for you."

"I know, Charlotte." Elizabeth gave her hand a squeeze. "Thank you."

"Whoa!" Peter shouted as he dodged the ball that Maria had hurled in his direction. "You almost hit me with that one." He ran into the shrubbery to retrieve the ball that had landed somewhere near the large tree where Fitzwilliam and Sir Percy were talking.

"I'll never forget that night." Sir Percy laughed.

Peter fumbled through the bushes trying to locate the lost ball.

"I think you're fabricating this." Fitzwilliam shook his head. "I don't recall any of it."

"You were totally sloshed, Fitz." Sir Percy laughed again. "Of course you don't remember."

With the ball in his hand Peter stood silent, listening to this exchange, not certain what to think about what he had just overheard.

"I don't know, Percy."

"If you don't believe me, why don't you ask that woman you were with. What was her name?" He scratched his head. "Vonnie, I think."

Groaning, Fitz threw his head back. "Vonnie."

"Pete!" Hugh yelled. "Did you find the ball yet?"

Turning back to the others, Peter returned to the yard to continue with the game. As he reflected on what he had heard, he tried to decide what to think of it. Should he give credence to the tale at all or let it affect his opinion of Fitzwilliam Darcy? He spent the rest of the evening distracted with these thoughts.

Charlotte and Elizabeth returned to the party, both in high spirits, and joined in the conversation at the table until it was time for dessert.

"What's for afters?" Sir Percy leaned back in his chair.

Julianne placed a hand on her belly. "I don't think I could eat another bite."

"I have some homemade ice cream." Elizabeth stood. "Made fresh today."

"You're entirely too cruel." Julianne moaned.

Wrapping his arm across her shoulder, Sir Percy pulled Julianne close to his side. "You can have a taste of mine."

"Thanks." Blushing, Julianne beamed as she nestled closer to Sir Percy.

With a grin on her face Charlotte looked up at Elizabeth. "I'll help you dish up."

Elizabeth nodded her agreement and the two women headed to the house, returning several minutes later. As Charlotte handed her the dishes Elizabeth scooped the frozen dessert, making certain that everyone was served. William was the last to be dished up. Elizabeth spooned the fresh strawberry ice cream into his bowl.

"Strawberry is my favorite flavor."

Nodding, she smiled up at him. "I know."

His dimpled smile was his only response.

"I think the party was a success," Elizabeth commented as she and Peter stood watching William and his sons drive away.

"Uh hmm." He nodded.

She glanced in his direction. "You look tired."

"I am. I think I'll turn in." Peter kissed his mother's cheek. "Goodnight, Mom."

"Good night." Elizabeth watched her son enter the house. Sighing, she reflected on the evening, feeling satisfied with the results.

Everyone had enjoyed the meal. The food had turned out well, with the exception of the last steak that William had burned. She laughed softly, recalling the image of William trying to rescue the charred remains of the neglected piece of meat.

She had tended to the shrimp while he had carefully grilled the steaks until only one remained on the 'barbie', as he called it. The focus of his attention was drawn away when Elizabeth had taken the shrimp to the table and became involved in conversation with Sir Percy. William had joined them until Charlotte noticed excessive smoke billowing from the barbeque. By the time he returned to the grill the steak was burnt to a crisp.

Smiling, Elizabeth sat down on the back step, glad to have spent such an enjoyable evening with some of her favorite people, happy that she had confided in Charlotte, and thrilled with the time she had shared with William.

Continued In Next Section