This is my offering among all the modern versions of JA tales. This may be the only chapter I post, as it's rather silly, but I couldn't stop thinking about writing something like this. As Marianne owns this aromatherapy business, I came up with the "Scents" in the title which sounds just like "sense". The word "nonsense" just seemed to fit for some reason, probably because most office life is pretty nonsensical, when you get right down to it. Now that I have gotten this out of my system...I hope some readers find it interesting.
"Ms. Dashwood….your one o'clock is here…"
Elinor Dashwood looked up at the heavily made up face of her secretary…or rather, her administrative assistant…and nodded her recognition of this fact. A smug smile upon her face, Lucy Steele closed the office door, and could be heard next assuring the client that "Ms. Dashwood will see you shortly…"
"Ms. Steele…I would certainly like to take a washcloth to your face.." Elinor said, under her breath. But, in fact, her secretary…uh, administrative assistant….certainly could have cared less had she known Elinor's secret thought. And in the next second, Elinor had quite forgotten the brazen habits of Ms. Steele, for a young man with an awkward, sweet face entered the office. As usual, Lucy sent in the client before her boss was ready, something she had been doing for the last week, in fact. But, it did not truly matter, as Edward Ferrars, her new client, seemed so ill at ease that Elinor forgot her own surprise. She greeted him, and indicated a chair where he might sit.
Within the next hour, her yellow legal pad upon her lap, Elinor took down the particulars of a problem concerning a tract of land owned by Mr. Ferrars. Although she thought there was little he could do to halt the unwanted development of some land adjacent to his, Elinor did advise and sympathize, though she kept the latter behavior to herself. Edward (she was already calling him this in her mind), had a gentle manner, and sincere attitude that she found extremely appealing----and his attractive, boyish face only added to his list of attributes.
"Well, Mr. Ferrars, if you have your land surveyed, and we can present this information as proof of trespass, then we can…" Elinor droned on, as disinterestedly as she could with the needed requirements for the case. Mr. Ferrars seemed to listen at first, then he smiled rather dejectedly and said:
"Ms. Dashwood----I think you are good lawyer, as least I have heard it so. But, I hope you are, first and foremost….an honest one. With this in mind, please give me the truth: have I a chance of fighting this?"
"Delbar Inc. is a huge concern, Mr. Ferrars. They have a team of the best attorneys in the city, and pay them well for that privilege. " She paused, thinking: his eyes are those of a hurt, lost puppy…. "In any case, you probably will spend a great deal of money….and receive very little in return. I'm sorry, Mr. Ferrars…unless we can prove the acreage next to the gas station is part of the parcel you own…"
"I see…" Mr. Ferrars was looking at the floor, then his face was raised, a smile upon it. "I suppose you are correct…..but my visit here is not to be a loss. I do require a will…and if you wouldn't mind…?"
Elinor, glad to be presented with a problem which could be easily solved, eagerly turned her mind to helping Mr. Ferrars draft his will. When it was done, she was almost sorry he had nothing further to give her; however, in that she was quite wrong. As he left the room, he turned to her, a very earnest look upon his face, and said:
"Ms. Dashwood….I….well….I would like to ask if you would have lunch with me tomorrow.."
Then, looking extremely embarrassed, he began to stammer an apology, but Elinor held up one hand placatingly.
"If you will tell me where you'd like to meet….I will have lunch with you…" The next few moments were spent taking down the particulars of time, place, and manner. Then he left, and Elinor slowly sat down, watching the closed door as if it contained some kind of miracle.
"Ms. Steele….I think I will be leaving for the rest of the afternoon," said Elinor as she walked out into the reception room. Lucy was heavily contemplating the keyboard of her computer, and seemed not to hear. "I think, " said she, "that the "z" key is stuck or something…"
Elinor had endured enough from Lucy, and decided to make known her displeasure.
"I want to talk with you, Ms. Steele…"
Lucy sat upright in a resigned, yet civil matter, and looked at her boss, affecting an attentive attitude.
"I would appreciate it very much, Ms. Steele, if, when you are announcing my appointments, to not refer to them as times of the day…..the announcement: "Your one o'clock is here,' should be replaced with one mentioning the client's name…"
Lucy raised her chin, yet there was a slight rebellion in her eyes: "Yes, Ms. Dashwood….I just saw that in a movie, and thought it kinda cool…y'know…sounds sophisticated…"
"We are a law firm, and must maintain a professional manner, Ms. Steele. While we do wish to keep at ease with our clients, we must remember that they do not require sophistication from us-----only to handle their cases with dignity."
Lucy nodded, appearing to agree, but Elinor wanted more, so she set up a contrived scene in which she, Elinor, was a client and Lucy had to greet and announce her. Lucy's attitude was one of compliance, but Elinor had the feeling that Lucy was having quite a laugh over the issue. However, by the end of the lesson, Lucy seemed to know she was to make an effort to use the client's name whenever possible.
As Elinor went to pick her purse up from the desk, she watched in dismay as Lucy bent over to retrieve some papers: her skirt crept up over her back, leaving little to the imagination. Her clothing had always tended toward the provocative, but Elinor had never noticed before how revealing it was. Now, she regarded Lucy more carefully and found much wanting in the area of conservative dress. At least she had discarded the nose ring she had worn at the interview and the tattoo on her forearm (how was that removed? ) Elinor did not want to imagine….
But, as a very young, very new attorney, Elinor had found the complexities of this world she had entered swallowing enough of her hours. She had little time or inclination to enforce a dress code, and besides, Miss Steele did her job….fairly well…..when it suited her…. However, Elinor knew, as her superior in rank…as her boss….that she must have a chat with her subordinate about these things. She required no more than her secretary be neatly dressed and clean, but this Pamela Anderson Lee look was just too much…. Perhaps Lucy thought such was stylish, but, in fact, it looked bizarre….what must her clients think? What must Mr. Middleton or Mr. Brandon think….? Good God, she needed to learn to be an effective supervisor, and take the bull by the horns, or….how could any one have confidence in her as an attorney?
"Miss Steele…" began Elinor.
Lucy stood up, not bothering to smooth down her heightened skirt. Elinor opened her mouth to speak, but then the sound of a male, clearing his throat could be heard from behind. Elinor saw Lucy's seductive look; she whirled around to face…..Mr. Brandon, senior partner.
He nodded at Lucy, then gazed kindly----almost sympathetically---at Elinor.
"I have some papers for your sister….as you recall, she came to me yesterday needing some contracts drawn up for her business. Would you mind stepping into my office later?"
Lucy piped up with: "But Ms. Dashwood was just leaving…" Lucy paused, obviously thinking about the latest lesson she had learned. She then said proudly: "Mr. Brandon….Ms. Dashwood could see you in her office…"
Elinor held her breath….as she felt she might sigh with heavy agony if she did not. But, Mr. Brandon, always correct and precise, smiled pleasantly in Lucy's direction, said thank you, and followed Elinor into her office.
Elinor, looking very uncomfortable, said: "Mr. Brandon…I apologize….Ms. Steele is very new, and…."
Mr. Brandon only chuckled, saying, "You may come by my office any time it suits you, Ms. Dashwood. As I am representing your sister in some matters, we perhaps should not remain as strangers?"
Elinor was amazed at this offer of friendship from a person, who was, in essence, very much above her in both profession and experience. His eyes had the bright look of someone with a pleasant secret to impart, so Elinor assured him that friendship was possible---but she also expressed surprise, and after a moment, he said:
"Your sister…..she and I had dinner just last evening…"
"Oh?"
"And….well, since she had become my client, I knew I had an attraction for her. Perhaps no more at first than an infatuation. Now, however…." The pause contained some hesitation. "I wonder, Ms. Dashwood….do you suppose…"
"I am glad you have found Marianne's company so pleasant…..she needs friends, as she is quite new to this area. Her business occupies much of her time and energy and…."
Here he interrupted, his tone serious: "And her worry. Tell me….just what is her situation with your brother, John?"
Elinor sighed, explaining that upon their father's death, John, who was executor of the family trust, brought forth news that his father had left a large amount of debt. So much so, that, in short, little money remained. He did, however, disperse the money that was due them as inheritance, and Elinor had received hers. Marianne, however, had asked that, in place of money, she be given part interest in an aromatherapy business run by John and his wife, Francis----who was called Fanny by her friends and family. John had been reluctant to do this, explaining that the shop wasn't doing very well, but Marianne had been insistent.
"I won't be able to finish college, and I need some kind of job, at present. This type of business will suit me very well." She had said.
Unfortunately, Marianne had wanted to extend the type of stock to include items such as herbal tea and New Age books and music. And it was fine to want this change----but Marianne had gone one step further by implementing it, bypassing Fanny and John, ordering large amounts of these items, and borrowing money to do so.
Elinor nodded, sighing, "Of course, Fanny and John wanted to initiate legal proceedings…but I discouraged them, in the name of family peace. I have attempted to reason with Marianne, but she says that since John had cheated her of an inheritance…..she will do as she must to make a little money. Oddly enough, business has picked up at her shop….while the shop run by Fanny seems to be losing more money every month….so perhaps Marianne has the right idea."
"Marianne has mentioned to me the possibility that John isn't revealing all he knows about his father's money….do you believe this?"
"Not at all. I did ask to see proof, and John presented it to me. My father's bank account and investments barely covered what he owed, Mr. Brandon. However, it troubles me little. Our father lived as he wished and spent his money as he wished. In the past year, he knew he had not long to live….I am pleased to think he enjoyed what time he had left, and if money made this possible for him to do so….then I am at peace with his choices, Mr. Brandon."
Mr. Brandon then suggested they call each other by first names….at least when not dealing with each other professionally. "I confess, Ms. Dashwood…..I do not know your first name.."
Elinor laughed, "I am sure the only Ms. Dashwood whose name you took the trouble to find out was not mine….so I am not surprised in the least! My name is Elinor….sometimes Marianne calls me Ellie, though that is a very great secret…please do not reveal it to anyone around here.
"My name is Andrew. Now that we can dispense with Mr. And Ms…..I hope it will lead into further intimacy with your family."
Part of Elinor was thrilled by Andrew's interest in her sister….part of her was actively dismayed. Marianne was not known for her constancy, nor her sensitivity…..nor even much in the way of tact! Her college degree in music therapy had never been completed, and she had only just recently moved out of their mother's comfortable middle class home. Marianne, who believed that presentation was more important than substance, often overspent her small income on such things as fresh flowers and imported lace with which to decorate her apartment-----and quite forgot to put aside any money to pay the rent on said apartment. Elinor would have been embarrassed to admit to Mr. Brandon….er, Andrew…how many times in the past six months she had helped her sister through several financial disasters.
Yet, Marianne did have an acute business sense, of a sort, as was proven by her improving her line of stock at the store----however, Elinor did fear for Mr. Brandon a little. He was quite a bit older than her sister, and though he looked ten years younger than his supposed age-----to look an age was not the same as being that age. And Marianne really preferred men who more avantgarde…..less conservative…..living on the edge…..and if they believed in the health benefits of aromatherapy, so much the better! Frankly, Elinor could not see Marianne….and Andrew together! But she could not say so. He was her boss.
That, too, was part of the problem….here was her boss dating her sister, and that sister so little caring of her own affairs, how could she care about Elinor's? How could she care that Elinor might be possibly compromised if Marianne's relationship with Mr. Brandon did not end well…
But she did not indicate any of these concerns to Mr…..er, Andrew….and he, already rather blindly in love by the looks of it, would not, in any case, have noticed any concern of Elinor's. He mentioned having another date planned with Marianne for that evening, and he had worked through his lunch hour in order to have time for her. Elinor admired his enthusiasm----and could only wish it wasn't for Marianne.
Finally, he arose, again reminding her to stop by his office on her way out to pick up Marianne's papers. "She said they would be very safe with you….that you had always been her guardian angel…"
At that particular moment, the phone buzzed, and in the next, Lucy's voice was heard: "Ms. Dashwood, your sis is on the line…."
Exasperated beyond measure, but not beyond control, Elinor said, "You mean Ms. Marianne Dashwood, Ms. Steele?"
"Yeah…her…"
Elinor began to administer a correction to Lucy, but Andrew interrupted with, "May I answer it, Elinor?" His yearning manner tore at Elinor's heart a little, and she watched in concern as this sweet faced, velvet voiced man spoke with her sister. From the small interruptions in the conversation, and the look on his face, with its change from animation to puzzlement, Elinor guessed that Marianne might be canceling their date. However, he looked relieved as he handed the phone to Elinor:
"Dear sister….hasn't Lucy learned any phone skills?"
Elinor replied: "She is slowly coming to that…..did you call merely to chat…?"
Marianne began to whisper: "I see that Brandon has practically announced our marriage to you….well, just between you and I, Elinor, I have no idea what he means by all this. He and I are of incompatible astrology signs, but I suppose as he is my lawyer, he might need to discuss some of my business over dinner….that's OK, he pays, and I can use all the help I can get.."
Elinor, under the scrutiny of her boss, could only answer: "Remember that his time is valuable, Marianne…."
"Well, yes, I know all that….and he is right there in the room with you, isn't he? I hope you have the heat turned up in your office----he admitted to me last night he wears long underwear until April!"
Andrew finally arose from his chair, made gestures that he was leaving, and waved and smiled at Elinor as he left, mouthing the words, "See you!" as he did all this.
Finally, Elinor could have a private talk with her sister, and this she did, telling Marianne that while it was just a business affair to her-----it had become much more to Andrew Brandon.
"I had no idea, Elinor….he acted at the dinner just the same as he did in his office. He hardly really smiled! I wondered why he chose to waste his time watching me while I picked apart a lobster. Really, Elinor! Don't lawyers sometimes have dinner with their clients? They do it all the time in the movies, on the TV….and usually it's just to discuss some big secret about a case, though what on earth he could have to say about my legal business is a secret, I can tell you that! All very boring to me, but I simply refuse to lease my store as an outlet for fruit flavored soaps and such unless I know I can take an ample cut….heavens, I have my overhead, and to pay Jennie overtime to work weekends….I need to have at the very least 30 per cent….what do you think?"
Elinor's mind was still back imagining a love stricken Andrew gazing upon her lobster-eating sister. She felt a little dizzy, and could only utter…"fruit flavored soap….what?"
"It comes in all these fruity scents---coconut orange, lemon mango, peach papaya, and my personal favorite, pineapple apple…."
These last two words, by their very nature, alerted Elinor to the fact that the conversation was in danger of becoming very irrational. She again attempted to warn her sister that Mr. Brandon might be falling in love with her: that his taking her out for dinner strongly suggested his desire for a romantic relationship, and that, if she did not wish this to happen----she needed to be up front with him, and tell him so.
"He's so much older than I, Elinor. Yeecch! He's certainly almost old enough to be my Dad…. biologically anyway! He's probably married, or has been married…and I could never have anything to do with a divorced man! Why, he'd be more experienced, and I am not saving myself for someone who knows more than I do! I want a husband who will be on the same level as I am-----not a husband who knows everything and would lord it over me!"
"I cannot imagine Mr. Brandon lording anything over anyone, Marianne. He certainly does not give that impression here, in this office, where, if anywhere, he would definitely be able to "lord over", as you put it!"
"Well, he must have been married….old as he is…"
Elinor had heard something about a marriage, but she believed it had been over a long while, and for some reason, she thought some great tragedy had been involved. For once, she wished she had taste for gossip, as in the office world, such was the transfer of personal information. Mr. Brandon's administrative assistant, Mrs. Jennings, often lunched with Lucy, and had probably told her all about her boss----perhaps she could glean some information out of Lucy, if she was clever and careful about it.
"I know very little about his personal life, Marianne….but I do know that he is a human being who could be hurt. Take care, please, Marianne."
A sigh was heard over the phone, "You are right, I suppose, Elinor----you usually are. I shall speak to him, make him understand that I just cannot abide the thought that…..yeeech!! He's old enough…."
"Marianne----was there anything else you needed to say?"
"Mother wonders if you will be able to come up this weekend for Dan's birthday." Dan was their stepfather.
"Yes. Anything else."
"Just that," Marianne's tone became very humble and very sincere: "I do appreciate your guidance and advice, and all the money you have lent me. The way things are going, Elinor….I shall soon be able to repay it all….well, all except for the advice and guidance, as anything like that I could give would be all wrong for you…"
Elinor's heart softened at her sister's plaintive tone. Marianne was a good sister…she really was! Misguided, naïve, stubborn, perhaps even too touchy feely at times-----but she was quite aware of her weaknesses, her failings. This self knowledge would no doubt serve her well when dealing with Andrew, as she could not deceive herself, she would hardly be able to deceive him.
Elinor expressed this confidence in Marianne, who laughed with, "I need excitement, passion, and complete compatibility….nothing less….and as I have such high standards, I will be careful with each man I know, including Andrew Brandon. It would not be to my advantage to allow him to hope, as it would thwart my own purposes. Tonight, I shall tell him…"
"Thank you, Marianne…now I must go, and catch Lucy before she sneaks out…"
Goodbyes were said, and phones were hung up. Elinor then began to daydream about Edward a little. While she was doing so, she absent-mindedly picked up the phone, and was startled to hear the voice of Edward Ferrars!
"Wow, Eddie….I didn't know we went to high school together…Didja ever hear what happened to…"
This conversation went on for several seconds, and the flirtatious familiarity of Edward (Eddie?) was unmistakable. Then, when it became obvious from their talk that they had known each other very well at one time----Elinor quickly, but very quietly hung up the phone.
So….they knew each other when? Not recently from the little she had heard….and she was sorry she had heard it. Had Edward called here, wanting to talk to her? Or had Lucy called him?
As the answer to either of those questions was not very comforting, Elinor could only stare at the phone, its blinking lines matching the fast, nervous----and miserable---beating of her heart.
Chapter 2 Elinor held her breath, waiting for her phone to buzz, hoping that perhaps, Edward had called to speak with her. But minutes passed in horrid profusion, and finally, she saw the light blink off, and she knew that he was gone. Her office door was also ajar, and she could hear Lucy say some rather unsavory words to her fax machine. The girl's vulgarity, her ignorance, and her possible flirtation of Edward combined to infuriate Elinor into action. Immediately, she called Lucy into her office--but then, upon seeing the foolish, yet earnest look of the girl, she relented. Instead, she asked for a client's file, wanting to sign a letter she knew should be mailed that afternoon. If nothing else, Lucy was at least efficient, and had the letter readily at hand. She stood nearby, while her boss signed each copy; Elinor took elaborate pains with her penmanship, as this gave her time to consider what--if anything--she could say to Lucy. In the end, she decided it would be best to compliment her----and perhaps to find out some information in the process.
"I hope you did not take offense at my earlier request about announcing a client….I appreciate your willingness to learn, Ms. Steele. I realize that just coming from secretarial school, all of this might seem a little strange to you." Elinor gave a weak, cajoling smile.
Lucy's eyes were always a clue to her real feelings---but her mouth only spoke words of complete acquiescence: "Well, Ms. Dashwood….we did learn at secretary's school how to talk, and act. But, I guess every workplace has its own ways. They couldn't teach us everything…"
Yes, but common good manners should be obvious, thought Elinor.
"In any case….have you been surviving, working here? We have only been a team for a few months…? Elinor winced inwardly to think of herself and Lucy as a "team", but she wanted to develop rapport with the girl.
Lucy, with a sudden, and easy look of triumph, replied, "I am glad you say that, Ms. Dashwood. I kinda always wondered if you even liked me….?"
Elinor quickly came back with, "I have always liked you, Lucy. But, you see, I have felt strange as well----and I have so much to think about, every minute of the day. Clients to see, briefs to write, ….cases to try. I have hardly had time to think about being interested in much outside my work."
Lucy was staring, looking a little shocked, but quite intrigued with the idea that Elinor might be confiding with her.
"Do you like it here, Ms. Steele? I heard your words, just now….and you seemed upset…and it hasn't been the first time, either. "
Lucy swallowed, but her words were firm: "My Dad was a dock worker, Ms. Dashwood….I picked up a lot of those words from him. It was my regular vocabulary, y'know. Sometimes, I slip up when I'm p----, I mean, mad at something. I apologize if ….if you heard it. I will watch myself and not let it happen again."
Elinor gave a large, fake smile: "I know you do not mean to offend or annoy me, Ms. Steele. But it does sound very unprofessional…and surely does not match up with the young lady you seem to be…"
"It don't?" Lucy's face lit up, "I do try to dress, and act right, Ms. Dashwood. I really do, and I hope my language is forgotten. Please forget it. I will do better. Honest."
Elinor then came to the point: "I heard you talking on the phone with someone named Eddie----my door was open. Was this a client of ours?"
Lucy looked excessively uncomfortable, but seemed to find her bearing: "Well, yes…yes, he was here earlier. Eddie…I mean, Mr. Edward Ferrars…..I recognized him from high school, and when he called here, I just reminded him of it----that's all. It wasn't a personal call, or nothing like that, Ms. Dashwood…"
"But since he's a client, did you find out what he needed?"
"He…he…didn't really say, Ms. Dashwood."
Liar! Liar! Liar!
The words screamed in Elinor's brain, but her gaze remained silent and poised.
"Very well, Ms. Steele. Perhaps he will call back, if he had any questions. I gave you the details of Mr. Ferrar's will…."
Lucy was thus dismissed, presumably to complete that task. And Elinor, took up her purse to leave, as she had been attempting to do for the past hour. All she wanted was to go home, take a warm bath, read the next chapter of Pride and Prejudice, and think about her lunch date on the morrow.
But, on the way home, she recalled that her last teaspoon of bath salts had been used. She was quite near her sister's shop, and besides, it would be pleasant to visit with her for few minutes. Elinor turned off onto a side street that would eventually take her directly downtown.
Marianne's store was located in an old section of town, an area that, in its heydey, was the main shopping area in the city. Now, it had been rehabbed and restructured into a long row of antique shops, specialty stores, and small, quaint restaurants. When Marianne had bargained for this business, she had not known how decrepit had been the building she had been given. Formerly a drugstore, its ancient telephone booth and green walls still remained----but Marianne had decorated it beautifully, festooning paper flowers and dried herbs in various corners. Baskets held various assortments of soaps, lotions, and oils. Shelves of books and music were draped with old pieces of lace and fabric; wind chimes hung from the ceiling, and even the old phone booth served a purpose in displaying various items for men.
A prettily stenciled sign above the door proclaimed: SENSE O' SCENTS. Underneath, were the words: GIFTS. AROMATHERAPY OILS, SCENTED CANDLES. NEW AGE BOOKS AND MUSIC: ASK ABOUT OUR HERB OF THE MONTH CLUB! CLASSES AND SEMINARS ON ALL MATTERS RELATING TO THE NUTURANCE OF BOTH BODY AND SPIRIT!
And then, in the window below was a placard, which said:
BE SURE TO VISIT OUR NORLAND RIDGE MALL STORE, 922 NORLAND RIDGE MALL DRIVE!!!!!!! FANNY AND JOHN WILL BE HAPPY TO PROVIDE ALL YOUR AROMATHERAPY NEEDS.
Elinor shook her head at this last. She recalled how angry Marianne had been, having to advertise their store at hers-----and not having the same consideration done for her.
"I really believe they wish me not to succeed. Elinor! John said that the mall store is really the pivotal store----whatever the H that means!---and that he just wants me to be the satellite business. Good God! My shop is ten times prettier and offers ten times more!"
It was true. Marianne's branch of "Sense O Scents" looked and smelled stimulating and exotic-----it also had personality, charm, and a pleasant young woman as its owner to give it a welcoming feel. No customer ever left without the memory of Marianne's lovely smile, or without her eager goodbye. And she offered many inducements to entice a customer: free soap samples, drawings for prizes, and personalized service. Though the mall store was larger (and more expensive to maintain, as her brother constantly reminded her), it was a cold place run by cold people. Certainly you could buy fruit scented soap and candles there----but you would not get a demonstration of massage, or a consultation about the best scent to inspire luck---as you could at Marianne's.
It always smelled delightful here, and Elinor did think there might be something to the claims of aromatherapy----she always felt a little better whenever she walked into the store. As Marianne was busy with a customer----a very nice looking young man----Elinor merely waved at her sister, and looked at some small round items in a basket. However, it was not in Marianne's nature to ignore her sister, and she called to her, so Elinor hesitantly went to her.
"You look busy, Marianne…"
"Oh, not at all!" An umbrella of joy opened up in her voice as she introduced, "Mr. Jonathon Willoughby….sales representative for Effervescent Cloud. Mr. Willoughby was just demonstrating some of his products…" Marianne held up a soda bottle, with the explanation that, "this is how they package their bath salts….clever, eh?….but it's even better than that! When its put in water, it fizzes, and foams, all the while sending such a surge of relaxation throughout. And it comes in several wonderful fragrances…"
Elinor thought that if Mr. Willoughby were a sales representative, he certainly could not have found one more willing to do his job for him than Marianne. She described each product, expressing her excitement, asking him questions….and looking very flushed, which made her more beautiful than usual. In other words, she was absolutely enchanting, and Mr. Willoughby, though not completely under her spell----certainly looked as if he might consider it.
While Marianne listened to his statistics on customer satisfaction----"Ms. Dashwood, eighty per cent of customers polled prefer Effervescent Cloud over all over bath salts"---Elinor had the time to regard Mr. Willoughby. Handsome----no doubt of it! Very tall, dark hair, eyes, high cheekbones-----put him in a linen shirt, sword in hand----he'd make a very splendid hero. However, he was dressed in the ordinary way of the twentieth century: a suit, his jacket off, tie loosened----and he looked very well in that way, too. In any century, he was excellently endowed with every attractive feature----even his hands looked muscular, and sure of their movement. Not a turn of his head---or a syllable of his speech---lacked grace, education----and cunning.
She could see right through him-----his smile did not match his eyes (like Lucy's), and he seemed to be gazing at Marianne in a manner designed not to express his interest in her----but to draw her interest into him. Rather seductive, thought Elinor.
Eventually, however, Marianne did make her final choices, complete her paperwork, and purchase several cases of the product. Mr. Willoughby promised delivery within four days----or a complete refund if this did not occur. And, handing Marianne his business card, he specifically pointed out to her his home phone number, and then said, "I wonder….might we speak privately…."
Marianne blushed beautifully, then said, "Of course….Elinor?"
Elinor went outside, rather inpatient with this scenario: this man, a stranger----vamping her sister! At least it appeared so, but before she had much time to dwell on this, the door opened and out stepped the young man, passing her by without a glance or word of recognition. Marianne, very bright eyed, then followed, and seeing Elinor, her cheeks glowed with excitement.
"Your face is so red….what did he say to you?" asked Elinor.
"He….well, he has been by before….but I never noticed…then today…..oh, Elinor…he's asked me to dinner tomorrow night! Heavens! I haven't money for a new dress, but could I borrow your velvet! Isn't he completely and utterly to die for?! I…."
After a few calming remarks by her sister, Marianne was able to escort Elinor back into the store, and assist in selecting something to buy. The odd looking balls Elinor had first seen when she had entered were herbal bath bags. They could be hung from the faucet, and water run over them, transmitting both the aromatic and healing benefits of the herbs. They were manufactured in such concentrated form that they could be re-used a number of times without losing their potency.
"A savings, too…..I well know how you like to save your pennies, Elinor,"
"Cut the sale pitch, Marianne---you know I will buy it, anyway----and explain to me how you, with such disregard for your own safety----accepted a date from a complete stranger?" Elinor took the herbal ball from her, and studied it, awaiting the answer.
Seeing that her sister expected an explanation, Marianne began: "I don't know….I just feel so restless, Elinor. I will be twenty five in a few months, and feel I have yet to live…..I am such an innocent! I have had boyfriends….but what I really want is…." Marianne's cheeks seemed to catch fire, and Elinor finished her statement, "A lover?"
Her response was nearly inaudible: "Yes, I suppose so…"
"Then you must choose wisely and carefully. What do you know of this man?"
"And what do I know of Andrew Brandon!" came the angry retort.
"Enough to see that he is man of responsibility and stability----how else could he doing as well as he does? And, of course, Mr. Brandon seems to have your comfort and interests at heart…"
"I have seen absolutely no proof of that!"
Resignedly, Elinor responded: "My own intuition tells me, Marianne, that this…this salesman!….has an arrogance I do not like. I think him too----too sure of himself, for one thing! AND much too handsome, for another. He seemed used to having his way….and quite presumptious in causing a condition to occur in which you had to ask your sister to leave!"
"You need not have left…..is that what you find so displeasing?"
"I can hardly tell what I think…..he just seems…."
But Marianne defended her friend of only a few hours: "Not successful enough, that's what you mean. Why is he selling bath products? It would seem not a lucrative thing for a person to do…frivolous….unimportant….and compared to a wealthy corporate lawyer, Mr. Willoughby does—I will admit---look small and insignificant. But I can sense a few things, too, Elinor, and I sense that Jonathon is quite possibly the man for me. We have much in common, for we had been talking for over two hours before your arrival! Does that sound like a man who is arrogant….one who wastes two hours of precious business time discussing all manner of subjects that has nothing to do with what he is selling! This only tells me that he had other reasons he wished to remain! Had you seen him during those two hours, you would have known-----he hung on my every word, never taking his eyes from mine! And his expression told me he found it very pleasing to look upon me!" Marianne gave a sweet, yearning sigh: "How I did blush, Elinor…..I think my cheeks will never need rouge again!"
She could see that Marianne had no intention of relinquishing her happy fantasy of having found her true love. However, Elinor could not resist attempting one last plea for reason: "You have always said, Marianne….since we were young girls…that your first lover must also be as unaware as yourself." Marianne blushed still more. Elinor continued: "What if----he isn't? And you, in all your enthusiasm, cannot as of yet know of his history. Would it not be better to find out these things first-----before thinking of him seriously? Your excessiveness on this issue is a bit frightening…."
Marianne's face had a stubborn look: "I have some of those fruit scented bath gels I told you about. Would you care to sample one?"
That her sister had closed her mind was very evident, so Elinor did take a look at her products, and in the end, a purchase of was made of several items, including the herbal ball. While Elinor was gathering her purchases together, Marianne made preparations to close, locking the door, putting the cash drawer in the safe, and commenting that she hoped Mr. Brandon would not mind the way she was dressed. It was then Elinor recalled her sister's dinner date with Andrew, and she questioned Marianne about it.
"I was so startled when he asked Elinor! There we were, discussing my little business problem in his office, he taking notes, and not seeming all that intererested….then, suddenly, as I was leaving…" she shrugged, seemingly very bored with the telling of her story.
"It seems odd he would take your case, Marianne. How did that come about?"
Marianne was filling out a deposit slip for some checks: "I need to make a run to the bank, just down the street…"
"Marianne!" The frustration in Elinor's voice cause Marianne to glance up, and put aside her work for the moment to reluctantly answer: "To be truthful, Elinor, I first meant Mr. Brandon right here in this shop. He came in one day, I guess, to look at some things. On that particular day, I was doing a demonstration on massage technique, and he very eagerly volunteered to be a subject. Then he stayed around for awhile after I was finished. He did buy a lot of things, and asked quite a few questions, and wanted to know if he could sign up for another class, one in herbal remedy. That class is next month, when my herb garden will be ready to yield its wonders. Then I mentioned some problems I was having with a supplier, and the contract they wanted me to sign, and he mentioned he was an attorney, told me he would be very happy to help, left his card….and the rest, as they say, is history…"
Marianne then returned to her deposit slip.
"I suppose you will encourage this Jonathon Willoughby to also take one of your massage classes…"
"Actually, he used to do massage…and there is probably nothing I could teach him"
I certainly believe THAT! thought Elinor.
A deep sigh came from Marianne, "If you could do me a favor, and wait here while I just run to the bank. Mr. Brandon will be here in fifteen minutes to pick me up. I should be back before then, however."
But she had not returned when Elinor saw the familiar sight of Andrew's car pulling up to park at the curb. As he crossed the street, Elinor saw with dismay that he was smiling, looking very pleased with himself, so unaware that he had little reason to be. Should I give him a word of warning?
She unlocked the door to let him in, and his surprised look was replaced with one of relief when Elinor explained the situation. "I thought she would have returned by now.."
"I am two minutes early."
"Better early than late…." Then Elinor immediately wished she had said nothing, as it seemed that Marianne would be late, and she did not want to appear critical.
"So….how did the Woodhouse Health and Pharmaceutical case end? " and they began discussing the case, which was one that Elinor had been involved with, in fact it was the first case she had be associated with. After two minutes, however, this topic was discussed more than either of them wished it discussed, and Andrew was looking out the window for the sight of Marianne.
"Marianne told me of your kindness to her, in helping her with a contract. I know you are so busy with your own concerns. It was extremely considerate of you…"
"Yes, well, Middleton Industries has been quiet of late. Of course, it is probably the mere calm before the storm. Jack is talking of a merger with Darcy Enterprises, and my social life may come to a screeching halt if that happens."
Marianne, you couldn't possibly be using this as a ploy of standing up Andrew! You can't leave me here to watch his humiliation ! If that happens, I shall stuff this herbal ball down your New Age throat!
Finally, however, Marianne's form was seen scurrying down the sidewalk, then her smiling face appeared, and her voice was heard, apologizing for not being there when he arrived. Andrew, greeted her with all the enthusiasm prompted by his relief----which seemed extreme. This attitude disturbed Elinor greatly, as she could see how much in love he already was----and how much out of it was Marianne.
Still, she could not help but admire his eagerness in courtship: he followed Marianne around the car, his hands positioned close to her waist, though he never touched her. As he turned to face Elinor, she happily waved-----and without him noticing---gave her sister a hard look of warning. They drove away.
Elinor walked toward her car, but she stopped before she arrived halfway to her destination. There, perhaps half a block in front of her, was Lucy…..arm in arm with Edward!
Chapter 3
They were across the street, coming out of the Mexican restaurant, Lucy looking tasteless, as usual: red, tight-fitting sheath dress, high heels, and earrings the size of wagon wheels. Edward looked casual: dress pants and dark blue sweater----a plain canvas that only gave appeal to his good looks. But, why was he with Lucy? Or perhaps the easier question to answer: why was she with him?
They had not noticed Elinor. She was glad for this lack of attention, and quickly got into her car. On an impulse, she called her office, and picked up her messages. Just a few---all from clients, one from her mother---but none from Edward. At least that was a relief: he hadn't called to break their lunch date, so he must still want to see her….
"You…" she whispered to herself: "Are no doubt entertaining a foolish fancy, in thinking he wants to pursue a relationship. He asked you to lunch—not dinner—and besides, why would you want to date a man who obviously has other interests? He saw him tonight with Lucy, and from all appearances---they are romantically involved…"
But Elinor, good lawyer though she was, her persuasive skills having brought many a judge to her point of view----was not able to be as successful with herself. The fact is, she was very interested in Edward, and she was ready to fall in love with him----and against these feelings, her own argument succumbed: tomorrow she would see him, find out things about him, and using her own intuition----she would know more at this time tomorrow than she now knew. At least she hoped so----unless her heart interfered, and then---heaven help her!
Elinor hung the herbal ball on her faucet, and prepared for her bath. It was a ritual with her: scented candles, courtesy of "Sense O Scents"….some flower petals….her copy of Pride and Prejudice….and plenty of warm water. She was also going to do a facial mask, and had the greenish, brown stuff smeared all over her face, when the phone rang.
Her heart pounded, for only a few seconds, but they were torturous seconds: It's Edward…calling to say he can't make it…..and I will tell him that his will is ready to be picked up, we might discuss some things about it….and that will be the end of our conversation, and of any possibility of more…..an end that never had a beginning…
It wasn't Edward, however….but, Marianne.
"Elinor, this is awful! I cannot believe I am having dinner with the most boring man in the city!"
Elinor rolled her eyes, then asked: "You interrupted my bath to complain about having an expensive dinner with a man who is probably crazy about you? Tell me just what you mean by this…"
Marianne's voice was desparate: "I hate to beg a favor of you, Elinor…"
You don't hate it enough not to do it…..
"…But we are at 'Bon Maison', and if this continues must longer, I will go nuts! He just sits there----listening! It is the most provoking habit! And when he does speak, it's only to compliment me! Can you understand how boring this must be..?"
"Very…..I always detest attentive, considerate men who compliment me…"
"Elinor, I don't think you understand at all----no fire! No excitement! And he's wearing cashmere…silk cashmere! I cannot stand such pretentious snobbery in clothing!"
"Marianne---you are dining at one of the finest restaurants in the city…!
"Elinor----my favor is this: could you not come down here, and contrive some sort of---er—excuse that I need to come with you? Some sort of family emergency----whatever you can think of----so that this wretched evening might come to an end…"
She had no intention of doing so, and at first, said as much to Marianne. But further discussion weakened her resolve, and finally, as much to help Andrew as to help her sister----Elinor found herself dousing the candles, but keeping everything else as it had been before the phone call. Even the mask, now dried, remained on her face. She was almost ready to pull away in the car before she remembered she looked like a dead frog, and sighing many sighs, she went back in to scrub her face clean with a Washcloth.
Lying to the maitre'd first prepared the way for her lie to Andrew. At the mention of "family emergency", she was immediately ushered into the main dining room, and led to their table. She saw from a distance the earnest, radiant look of a man happily besotted while Marianne had the stunned look of someone being stalked. Elinor felt miserable pity for Andrew: I should have said no to this disgusting idea.
The relief on Marianne's face was so starkly evident that Elinor wondered how this excellent attorney could not see it. Stumbling a bit, at first, but becoming more at ease as she realized she was probably saving Andrew many hours of future misery, Elinor explained that their stepsister, Margaret had been in a car accident. She, mom, and Dan were at the hospital now, and Elinor thought it might be serious, and Marianne immediately became so excessively intense that Elinor feared Andrew might wish to accompany them. But, this he did not do, though he looked as though that thought had crossed his mind. He called the waiter, cancelled their order with great apology, and did escort them out to Elinor's car. And she became a little ashamed at her sister, when, instead of thanking Andrew, she mumbled something about "it was great, maybe they could do it again, someday…" Marianne then quickly hopped into the car, and did not even roll down the window so that further conversation with Andrew was possible.
Turning to Elinor, he expressed his deepest concern for Margaret. "Do let me know tomorrow how your sister is feeling….she is young?"
"Margaret is seventeen….just got her driver's license." Not exactly true, but it sounded well, and went along with the story.
Andrew then took Elinor's hand, squeezed it, and waving at Marianne (who was looking in another direction entirely), he walked toward the parking garage. Elinor had a sudden desire to run after him, and confess to him her duplicity. She could even, with gentleness, discourage him from thinking of her sister, just as she had often gracefully discouraged a client from doing something not to their advantage….
But, before she could act upon this, a large crowd of people obstructed her view. A theater had finished a showing, and people were leaving. Suddenly, she felt exhausted, and the thought of warm water washing over her in candlelight was much more tempting than managing her sister's love life. Within the next few minutes, she was speeding down the interstate, listening only halfway to Marianne's sulky chatter, and thinking about Edward. But, as most of her thoughts were jealous ones, and not likely to do her any good in thinking them, she decided to forget all she had seen. Perhaps she could mention it tomorrow, if she could think of some subtle way to manage it. On the other hand, what business did she have to ask him anything? They were not even boyfriend and girlfriend…or even just friends. Barely acquaintances, in fact.
I will resist the urge to ask any questions. But I will watch him, question him, and judge him accordingly by his answers. In that I might find out a clue to his personality----and if I sense that he is the type of man who is frivolous with the feelings of others, then I will not accept a second date from him…..
"And I hardly know what he thinks, anyway…he's old enough…." Elinor shut out the rest of Marianne's statement. She knew what she was about to say, anyway.
Elinor dropped off her sister at the small rental house she lived in. Marianne thanked her, and a cup of herbal tea was offered: "Your aura seems a little on the funky blue side tonight…."
This statement made little sense to Elinor, but she did not request a translation. However, she did deliver a short lecture: "I suppose you cannot see that Andrew is in love with you…." Marianne snorted with boredom, but Elinor continued: "If you have no intention of returning some of that feeling….might I suggest you accept no more dates? Andrew is not a man about to embark on dating for mere pleasure's sake----it is my understanding he wants something more substantial. If you have no interest in providing this----please tell him, Marianne."
Marianne laughed: "I cannot imagine him in love with anyone! Had he ever been in love….no doubt he has forgotten what it is all about! For if he had any memory of it, he would not have forced me to endure such boredom this evening! In fact, his smiles were so few, I rather wonder at your assessment of his great love for me---he certainly did not act the part of man deeply in love…"
"Perhaps.." Elinor said slowly, "He did not act out his love----he was too busy feeling it! And did not wish to cheapen this feeling by acting in an excessively flamboyant manner!"
Silence was the only reply. "Well," said Marianne, "I do thank you for rescuing me, Elinor. I know it was a great deal to ask…"
"…But you had no trouble asking it." Elinor finished.
"I still thank you, just the same. I appreciate it as much as if the highest difficulty had been involved…"
Lies. Deceit. Inconvenience. Insensitivity. So much difficulty is involved, Marianne…I wish you would see that your cavalier attitude has its own consequences. This evening may come to haunt us one day…
Starting her car, she tried to dismiss the uneasy thought, that more than just Andrew might have been hurt by the lies of the evening. But, it was no doubt her guilt for being involved. She would not do this again, no matter how prettily Marianne begged.
Yet, she had awful feeling that the deceptions were only just beginning.
Chapter 4
After a restless night that promised only to lead into a day more restless, Elinor arose from her sleep, dressed with special care, and with as much flashiness as was allowed someone of her status in the firm. She wore her red suit, shoes, and a colorful silk scarf at her neck. Careful attention was given to her hair and makeup—and remembering Lucy's more exotic look---she meticulously lined her mouth with lipliner, something she did not ordinarily do. In fact, her makeup was generally applied with a light touch, which, unknown to her, was much more appealing than the look she had created for this day. But---the full red lips and dark, heavily mascara lined eyes of Lucy---kept staring back at her from the mirror, so she decided to borrow some of Lucy's fashion sense. She had been a little brown sparrow long enough….
As she walked across the parking garage, she was hailed by Andrew. Of course, she had to stop and chat for a few minutes.
"How is your little sister?" asked Andrew.
"Oh…I took her home last night. She said she had a very good time…"
Andrew's look was one of extreme puzzlement: "A car accident is a very good time?"
Elinor's blush was furious, and she stammered out, "Oh..yes, Margaret…well, she is quite alright. We spent two hours in the emergency room while she had her arm set…"
The echo of their voices died away in the concrete garage, giving their conversation an ominous feel. Then, silence, a very awkward silence. They both walked to the elevator, and resumed their conversation once they were inside its more private confines.
"So, Marianne did say she had a good time?" Elinor thought his voice sounded shaky. She made an effort to alleviate its trembling quality by uttering greater reassurance than she might otherwise have done. Another lie.
"Well, then..perhaps we could all get together this weekend," he suggested, "Go to dinner. Marianne mentioned she likes to dance….what do you think?"
Elinor could see he was still nervous. She hastily agreed to the weekend plans as the elevator door opened. As his office was one floor above hers, he remained in the elevator. Eleanor turned around and said that she would call him later about doing something this weekend. He smiled, merely nodding….but she knew his look was not truly at ease. The elevator doors closed upon this worried look, and Elinor vowed to call Marianne as soon as she knew her sister would be at "Sense O' Scents".
Lucy was busy, as usual, in deep concentration at her terminal playing a computer game of tic tac toe. Elinor wondered who was winning. She had checked her voice mail before coming to work, and knew she had a client for nine o'clock, but the small waiting area was empty. She cleared her throat.
Lucy turned around, half smiling, "Good morning, Ms. Dashwood. I just cannot quite get the hang of this…" She indicated the tic tac toe board on the screen. "It's a real puzzle…but puzzles help your brain, I heard….do ya know we only use about ten percent of our brains?"
And I doubt you use even ten percent of that amount…. But Elinor, deciding that such petty thought was beneath her, questioned Lucy as to some paperwork that needed done.
"Yeah, well I got that prenupt for Mr. Churchill…..and that letter for Mrs. Price about that collection agency…and…" Lucy paused, trying to recollect some minor thought.
"Oh yes!" she said, finally, "That one guy called…..y'know, about that one thing?"
"Ambiguity, Ms. Steele…do you know the meaning of that word?"
Lucy cocked her head, her voice saturated with innocence…"Are you mad at me, Ms. Dashwood?"
At length, Elinor found out the name of "that one guy"---Capt. Fred Wentworth, Navy pilot—and "that one thing" concerned he and his wife adopting a child from Russia. Elinor took the papers pertinent to the adoption into her office to study them, and was heavily involved in reading them, when Lucy announced she had a call.
It was Edward.
She greeted him, trying to keep the sound of dismay from her voice….
"I hope you are having a fine day…" he began.
The fineness of my day depends on what you have called about…
But she said, "Yes, so far. I am looking forward to our lunch…"
"Well, that's what I was calling about….you see, I have a meeting that will last until two. I think that might be rather too late for lunch…
Elinor's heart was pounding, her eyes were closing…
"But, I was wondering….maybe…if it's possible….could we have dinner together tonight?"
She felt a lightening bolt of joy. Dinner would be so much better, more intimate, and longer lasting, as there would be no reason for her to hurry back to work. She happily agreed, and he said he would pick her up at six from work.
Elinor hung up the phone, thinking: And I will see to it that Lucy leaves the office early today…
The rest of the day was as long and as frustrating as an exam in civics. But, six o'clock did arrive, Lucy had left at five, and Elinor gleefully entered the elevator---and also encountered Andrew Brandon.
His eyes lit up a bit when he saw Elinor----and she suddenly recalled she had forgotten about him. She strove to make amends: she lied and said she had spoken to Marianne, and that she had been delighted at the prospect of doing something together on Saturday night. In fact, Elinor said she thought she'd no doubt have a date of her own to bring. "I certainly would not want to be a third wheel…."
The elevator door opened, and they stepped out together… "You are never an inconvenience, Elinor. I will be happy to see you Saturday night any way you can come…" They both said goodbye.
"Elinor?" She heard Edward's voice right behind, and she turned to see him leaning, with a disheartened look, upon a pillar. His hair was charmingly tousled, and he stuttered out a greeting, but yet seemed depressed. She wondered at it, but warmly greeted him just the same. He seemed to revive a little, then asked her who was her friend…
Elinor was nervous, and anxious to alleviate whatever was his discomfort, so she said, without thinking—and even worse---without explaining: "Oh..that's Andrew. We are going out together this weekend."
Edward said nothing, except to mumble that he "seemed like a nice guy…" and began walking alongside Elinor.
She began to chatter happily, hoping to improve his spirits. She had been so uneasy herself that she had not noticed how she had explained Andrew to Edward----nor saw the connection between Edward's awkwardness and any of the conversation that had just taken place. Had she not been distracted by her own anxiety, her own joy, and her own desires, she might have made the connection. But it was quickly forgotten by her.
In spite of this, however, their dinner was pleasant. Edward took her to a charming Italian restaurant that boasted an outside arbor where they could sit and drink wine and eat pasta. Elinor, relieved to notice that this was not an expensive place, was able to order from the menu with complete confidence. The food, when it arrived, was glorious. Lucy, her wide, red mouth, sexy clothing, and stupid manners seemed very far away in such surroundings.
At one point, Edward asked her, "Do you like Mexican food?" and that reminded Elinor of Lucy…
"No, no….too spicy, I'm afraid…"
"Same here…too spicy." Elinor was thrilled to know that he and Lucy did not like the same food. He mentioned eating at a Mexican place just last night, and Elinor asked him why if he did not like Mexican food.
"Oh…I was with friends….they all like the happy hour. But I didn't have a very good time. The company was not really to my taste…"
Elinor was careful to frame her question with complete disinterest: "Oh…why?"
"Just too---elite, I guess. Most of them are successful professionals. I don't really fit in…"
Edward had just finished dental school, and his family had expected him to enter into practice with an old friend of theirs, Dr. Morgan. His practice mainly consisted of very well to do patients, especially since he specialized in cosmetic dentistry. He had wanted Edward in the practice for the routine checkups---and.fillings, crowns, etc. The offer was a handsome one, the practice affluent and well established----but Edward wanted to do something meaningful.
"What would you like to do?" Elinor gently asked. At her question, Edward looked a little embarrassed, but yet, enthusiastic.
"I---well, please don't laugh, but….I know another dentist, a Dr. Pratt, who spends every summer in Mexico working at a free clinic there. He leaves his practice here, and makes a sacrifice of income to practice dentistry in a place where it is truly needed and appreciated. He also has offered me a position, but it does not pay as well as would Dr. Morgan---however!" His eyes, which had been brightening up in stages---now positively glowed with an inner fire: "I would love the experience of doing some good in the world….even if it is only filling cavities. Dr. Morgan's patients have every option open to them for good dental care----at the Mexican clinic, those patients have only one----and I would so like to be able to do something for them!"
In that instant, she had fallen. The usual manifestations of love did not happen: pounding heart, weak knees, fluttering stomach----but it was much more simple, and therefore, much more profound. She simply wanted to be with him, share his passion, his life----and perhaps even accompany him to Mexico. And it was so admirable that he wanted to be true to himself----and not weaken under his family's demands….
"I do have a bit of a confession to make, Elinor. " She thought, Here comes his story about Lucy… But he did not mention Lucy at all.
"Well, when I was looking for an attorney, I mentioned this fact to my half sister----you see, you and I are related in a way---"
Elinor looked at him, making a quick guess…"Are you the Edward that Fanny always talks about…? She now recalled Fanny's boast of her brother's dental career----rather, the family's dental career---as it was not really Edward's. They did not want him to do what was his heart's desire----they wanted Dr. Morgan----and he, Dr. Pratt. Well, this new information will not place Fanny among my favorite people anytime soon…
But she was Edward's sister----and Elinor said nothing against her. But, she well knew of Fanny's obsession with status and money. She could easily visualize Fanny taking a stand against her brother entering a practice with a doctor who helped those less fortunate. Fanny hardly believed such people existed, let alone that they had teeth----and needed them cared for. Elinor sipped her burgandy, and then told Edward about her career, how she had chosen law, and….found herself confiding to Edward about Marianne's meeting with Jonathon.
"Your intuition could be wrong….he may be a great guy."
Elinor sighed, "A snake is still a snake---even if it's dressed in a suit and tie."
Edward laughed.
He drove her home, and they sat in his car in front of her duplex, talking until past midnight. She found out so much about him----many, many things----all except for the one thing that would give her peace….
He walked her to her front door. She debated whether or not to ask him in, but as it was their first date, thought it best not to. She believed many such future opportunities awaited, and thought them too sacred to be rushed.
Before they said goodnight, Edward did draw her into his arms, and kissed her. More than once he kissed her, his mouth pressing tighter each time. Elinor felt his passion, and also his restraint of it----and it added all the more to the proof of his good character.
She practically danced into the living room…down the hallway….and she wondered if she would ever sleep tonight. Or eat again. Or think! How would she ever make it through work tomorrow! And Edward had promised to call….
Upon this promise, Elinor lay all her hopes….all her happiness. Only a few words: "I will call you tomorrow…" and she was able to sleep, with happy dreams, and looking forward to the new day.