Jump to new as of October 26, 2001
Jump to new as of November 26, 2001
Jump to new as of December 2, 2001
Posted on Monday, 3 September 2001
Standing on top of headquarters he nervously paced back and forth swinging his briefcase to and fro as he looked out over the spacious view of the New York City skyline. Glancing down at his watch once more he checked the skies looking for any sign of the helicopter. As he was standing at the landing he was approached by a slick looking European with a thick accent, and pressing his lips lightly together he came and stood by the man.
"It's pretty high up here huh?" as he wiped his sweaty brow with his already saturated handkerchief. All he received in return was a nod from the European who continued to look straight ahead. The man swallowed hard and said, " I doubt anything would want to fly this high."
The European glanced at him before calmly saying, "I heard only angels fly this high."
"You must work for headquarters I suppose? I just hope this bomb doesn't go off before we give it to them." he said with a snarl as he opened his briefcase slightly to show him what was hidden inside. "Her most prestigious Lady Catherine herself put me to the task of delivering the item. Yet I only hope that I can complete the task to her satisfaction, blah, blah, blah ... "
All at once the helicopter was in sight as it speedily made its way to the landing. The man stepped forward as it landed safely on the ground while he ran up to open the door. Out stepped a woman in a sleek business suit, hair in a bun, and glasses as she shook the man's hand.
"I suppose everything is ready for business, if you'll just hand me the briefcase." she said, and he, with his slickest smile handed it to her. "Thank you, you obviously don't know who to trust." A look of alarm came across his eyes as he suddenly charged towards her, ready to fight. All at once she saw him approaching as she took her karate position and swinging her leg around she was suddenly in mid-air both legs out as one hit him in the face causing him to reconsider what he was doing but the second one hit him with more force as it knocked him unconscious.
"Grab him, Liz." she said to the man as he picked up his arms while the girl got his feet. "Damn he's heavy." she said with a laugh. Throwing him in the backseat and grabbing the briefcase they set off in the helicopter. "Go El." she said as the girl in the drivers seat turned around to flash them her brilliant smile before setting off. Quickly the man opened the briefcase to see the clock counting down 10, 9, 8, and grabbing hold of the right wires he detonated the bomb. The girl smiled at the man as he held up the briefcase to show her his handiwork.
"We're home ladies." said the driver as they landed atop another major building. At that moment the man woke from his unconsciousness and looked around himself with fear. "Who are you? And you, you could have killed me. What are you a policeman or something." as he shouted at the three of them.
"I think you mean policewoman?" she said as the voice was changed from the European accent to a ladies tone, as the person tore off her mask to reveal a woman as she shook out her long chestnut curls. Laughing at the man's amazement she rolled her eyes as all 3 of them glanced at each other. After that she simply said, "We're worse than the police."
From Jane-
Hello. I run the most top secret organization in the world, consisting of the 3 most tip-top fighting machines alive. I took special care in selecting my fighters. Yet the only people I received were men, not even fit enough to be heroes in a romance novel. So I turned to a different breed, I chose 3 women instead. They were all average 18 year-old girls about to start college when I found them. For the next 5 to 6 years they went through the most ultimate training to become what they now are. The first (cue music)was an obedient but sensible and witty young woman named Elinor. Coming from a family of 3 sister and 1 half brother she was dying to get away from her obedience and stale life so she joined the team. The second was a clueless blond, Emma, from a family of 1 sister and no mother while living an extremely posh life. She had an annoying habit of matchmaking which a friend of the family always recognized. Last but not least I chose Elizabeth, a spirited and quick tongued girl from a family of 4 sister. The main reason she joined was to get away from her mother, who could blame her. I finally had my team, but then the training began. They were taught all fields of martial arts, gymnastics and technology making them unstoppable. Their only mode of self-defense is themselves, no weapons and no bombs. They take care of each other on their own. What do these 3 girls have in common you ask? They're beautiful (hair toss), they're brilliant and they now work for me. My name is Jane Austen and these are my angels.
Posted on Monday, 3 September 2001
The buzzing of the alarm clock registered in her mind as her eyes fluttered open with a smile playing on her lips. Reaching over she slapped her palm down on the snooze button as she rolled over on her side cradling her pillow under her arm and she fell asleep. Suddenly she was awaken again, only this time by the doorbell than by her alarm clock. Crawling out of bed she slipped on her fuzzy Steve Madden slippers and groggily walked to the front door. "Coming." she yelled as the bell rung again. Unlocking the fasten she opened the door to see a very handsome man standing there surrounded by suitcases. The puzzled look on her face expressed her thoughts that a strange man was at her door.
"I'm sorry to bother you so early in the morning, it's just that I moved in, well I am moving in today next door. The landlord said that you had the extra key for me to get in. So I was wandering if I could have it, please, because I can't get into my apartment?" he said rather timidly.
She thought for a moment before taking a discovering breath. "Oh you're Edward Ferrars. I'm sorry don't think me rude or anything for not remembering. Come on in." she said as she stepped back opening the door to its full length.
He picked up his suitcases one by one and setting them against the wall as she shut the door behind him. Looking around himself he noticed how tidy and neat everything was. She scurried off in her pajama pants and tank top as she began digging through her desk drawer. He finally noticed her outfit as he began apologizing. "I'm sorry if I woke you Miss...?"
Looking up from the dresser she said, "It's Elinor Dashwood." While holding out her hand for him to shake, which he so gallantly did. "Oh and here is your key." she said handing it to him. He felt a little embarrassed as he was standing there next to the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. Recognizing that what she said was probably his cue to leave he tried to think of something to say to get to know her better.
"So how long have you lived here?" he asked.
"I've been here about a year or so. I figured that when I got the place I was just going to be here for a little while, but I liked the neighborhood and rent was pretty low so I stayed."
"Are the other tenants friendly?"
"Some are, but I'd watch out for this one guy who requires silence 24/7. One time he came to my door with a broom saying if I didn't keep the noise down that I would scare all his cats away. But he doesn't have any cats though." she said with a laugh.
"Really?" he said laughing also. To which he received a nod of the head from her. Suddenly their laughter was interrupted with the ringing of her cell phone with a bright pink cover, to match her outfit of course. She ran to the couch where her purse lay and began searching through mounds of wallets, keys, make-up, etc. Pulling it out she quickly excused herself and pressed the send button.
"Elinor Dashwood ... really? ... .right now? ... what time? ... .okay I'll be there ... .see ya soon ... bye." and with that she put her phone back in her purse and said, "I'm sorry but I'm going to have to cut our conversation short. I have some work to do."
"Oh that's okay." he said trying to hide his disappointment. "There will always be another time." She escorted him to the door and with a friendly shake of the hand he set off down the hall as she closed the door and ran off to get dressed.
Raising her glass to take another sip of her drink she opened her copy of the New York Times and scanned the front page as her eyes rested on the title reading, "Collins Snatched After Delivering For Lady Cat." She read through the details as 3 anonymous women discovered the bomb and detonated it while taking him into custody. Emma had to laugh at what they said of the heroic pedestrians saving the day. Rolling her eyes she continued reading when suddenly a hand appeared where she was looking at the paper. Without even glancing in front of her she simply said, "George I'm trying to read." He sat down across from her in the tiny booth by the window.
"Did you hear about that Collins thing, or whatever it is?" he asked as he chewed on her piece of bacon.
"Yeah." she said putting down her paper and covering up her plate with her hands. "Did you come in here only to take my food again?"
"Emma, I've been like a brother to you all your life, it's my job to take your food and disturb your reading. What else do I live for?" he said with a grin. "I'll probably be your brother soon with how things are with John and Isabella."
"I'm glad to see them be so happy." she said as a look of mischief came across her face. "Do you remember you set them up together," she said as she cuffed her ear with her hand, "who did it, I can't seem to remember?"
"Alright, alright I'll give you this one but that's it." he said while laughing. A distant ringing was heard from her purse as she pulled out her bright yellow cell phone, a very posh color, and pushed the talk button.
"Hello ... hmhm ... ohhhhh ... .ummmm ... okay ... bye." Closing the phone and sticking it in her purse she paid the bill while rising from her seat. "I got to go."
"Jane again?" he asked as she nodded and walked off. "See ya." he called after her as she left the restaurant.
She steadied the punching bag as she began circling it and jabbing with her fists before kicking it repeatedly. Her fast movements and expert fighting abilities was rather impressive to see a beautiful girl with perfect nails beating up a bag. Stopping for a moment she continued bouncing in place while rotating her neck. Deciding to take a break and walking to the bench she wiped her brow and took a sip of her bottled water as she began removing the tape from her knuckles. Suddenly she was not alone as another member of her gym approached her.
"Elizabeth dear, I hope I'm not interrupting anything I was just wondering if you could massage this one muscle in my back?" She paused with fear as she slowly turned around to see the most thick headed man in the world standing before her. Sure he was fit, but what an idiot.
Remaining calm she said, "No I'm afraid I'm not very skilled in that area and I'm rather busy working out." Rolling her eyes she gathered her gear and walking around him she headed towards the locker rooms.
"I can understand how you would want to quit for a while with you only being a woman and having less skills than I. You see Eliza, I am better because I practice more, maybe you should do the same."
Turning on her heel to face him she dropped her bags and throwing them to the side she shouted, "Okay you and me right here, right now let's go." And with anger in her eyes she stood her ground.
"I would naturally agree, but I'm rather afraid that I would hurt you, after all you are rather frail." Suddenly his speech was cut short as she punched him in the stomach.
Falling to the ground on all fours he began grasping for breath as she nudged him with her foot on his side causing him to fall to the ground. Rolling her eyes she gathered her things and walked into the locker room. She heard a muffled noise as she pulled out her racy red cell phone, what else would it be, and flipped it open.
"Elizabeth Bennet ... okay ... yeah sure ... the gym ... I only punched him once ... yes that's progress ... .okay bye." And with that she set off for the showers.
Author's Note: This story is dedicated to the thousands of people who are suffering in New York and Washington after this terrible tragedy occured. My prayers are with them, justice will be served.
Speeding down the highway with her hair violently blowing through the wind, Emma dodged traffic like a stray bullet as she pulled out in front of traffic and blocking the exits. Sure she always received dirty looks and crude profanity but all she would do is smile and toss her hair. It was a well-known fact that she was the worst driver ever created. Arriving at Jane Austen and Co. she screeched to a halt and pulling down the visor and opening the mirror she applied her lipstick and checking herself before exiting the car and running up the steps.
Sprinting down the hallway she pulled off her glasses as she tucked her mail under her arm. Arriving at the door she opened it to see Elizabeth sitting there on the couch flipping angrily through a magazine. Raising her eyebrows in question, Emma stared at her as Elizabeth looked up from her magazine to say, "Morning."
"What happened?" she asked in return.
"You know that guy at the gym, Thomas Bertram or whatever his name is?"
"Yeah why, did you hit him again?" she asked tapping her foot. "Liz?"
"So I did, but he deserved it." she said standing up. "I can never meet a nice guy, it's impossible." Stopping in her walk she turned to face her. "He told me I was too frail to fight, that I was just a woman, he said that he was more skillful than I am."
"Uhhh, bad move."
"What's a bad move?" said Elinor walking in while sipping on her coffee.
"Some guy told Elizabeth that he was stronger than her."
Elinor made a squinched face, "Never say that to Elizabeth 'the fist' Bennet." she said laughing. "Oh speaking of guys I met someone interesting this morning." she said sitting on the couch.
"Who?" said Emma while smirking. "Anyone I know, because I was thinking of setting you up with this great guy I know named..."
"No Emma, I got this one under control."
"So how did you meet him?" asked Elizabeth as she finished ripping the magazine.
"Well you know that new person I told you about, that I had to hold his keys, well it's him. He came over this morning for the keys and we just began talking about the most harmless stuff, but he seems really nice though."
"So what happened did he get your number?" said Emma sitting next to her.
"Well he didn't because Bingley called telling us about the meeting." she said taking a sip of her coffee. "By the way where is Bingley?"
Almost as if on cue Charles Bingley, the associate to Jane strolled in the room. "Good morning girls." he said cheerfully.
"Good morning Bingley." they said at random. At the ripe age of 30 he was a rather cheerful but absent-minded young man. The type of person who whistles even when the IRS calls.
"So girls, how's it going?"
"Well," began Emma, "Liz punched the guy at the gym again, and Elinor might be getting a date."
"Really?" he said with a raised eyebrow.
"Yeah you want to hear about it?" she asked.
"Nah, tell me later."
"Ah men," said Elizabeth, "all alike."
Suddenly a ringing was heard as the speakerphone clicked on as a woman's voice filled the room. "Good morning Angels."
"Good morning Jane." they said in unison.
"I hope you are all rested up for your new assignment. Something very serious has occurred of late. A top rising publishing company along with 50 other major corporations have a special computer data made of thousands of passwords and codes, that contains over 300 stories waiting to be published, have been stolen. It is your job to get it back."
"Who are the suspects?" asked Elinor.
"I'm glad you asked, observe the television." As suddenly the screen flipped on revealing security tapes. "These men in the pictures are 2 of the 3 men involved. On the left is Frank Churchill. He is responsible for thousands of computer problems and disasters over the past 5 years. To the right of him is his partner John Willoughby. Charged with being a scam artist and the hiring and training of hitmen. It is your job to find these men and learn who their leader is, while you try to find the missing data. If these men learn how to crack the passwords, they will them be in charge of the companies and make them pay a heavy ransom, money they will no longer have, to get it back. They would then be forced to ask the government, but by the time that they give them the money, they would then have control over the U.S. and other countries. That is your assignment, good luck girls."
"That sounds like fun." said Emma with a smile.
Laughing at what she said, Elinor scanned the information that was being handed to them. "Are they attending anything that we should crash?"
"As a matter of fact Elinor," said Jane. "Mr. Churchill and Mr. Willoughby will be guests at a top-notch party tonight."
"Looks like were going shopping ladies." said Elizabeth. "And you can come along too Bingley." she said, as they all broke out into laughter.
Stepping out of the elevator into the elaborate pent house, Bingley strolled into the room with an attitude of arrogance with Emma on one arm and Elizabeth on the other. A lady in red and another in black as they slid into the roles of aristocrats as they glanced around the scenery with disgust. They both stopped and looked at Bingley as they said in hushed voices, "We'll go mingle, tell us if you see anything." With that they went off in different directions each being as hard to get as possible. What was unknown to the human eye was that sewn into the material of their clothes they each had a wired microphone and implanted in their hair was a speaker.
As Emma wandered off in search of anything she glanced about her for Elinor as she too was in disguise. Suddenly she felt a tap on her shoulder as she turned around to see a server's uniform. But when she looked at the face there was Elinor. She held out a tray and with a straight face said, "Can I get you anything?"
"Oh no thank you but I believe the gentleman in my party would care for something." she said with a pointed look in Bingley's direction as he was intermixed with a crowd of people he didn't know.
"I'll be happy to serve him ma'am." she said walking away.
Elizabeth on the other hand was working her way to where a very large crowd was situated, as she looked for any sign of who was all the cause for attention. The crowds parted as she had to keep her countenance as in front of her sat John Willoughby. He looked up at her and running his eyes disgustingly over her form and winking at her, he stood up and walked in her direction.
Arriving to where she was he stood next to her and sipping on his wine he slipped his arm around her waist. "Hey." he said staring at her profile. "What's a beautiful lady like yourself doing here with a bunch of losers like me?"
Keeping her character as being the bait she turned to him and said, "Just for entertainment I suppose." He laughed a little at what she said before leading her in the direction of where a group of men were sitting. They all rose as she came closer and addressed Willoughby saying, "So John you up for a game?" they asked.
"I always am." he said as they walked to where there was a pool table. After having to sit through 2 games, both of which won, he boasted over his earnings while he leaned up against the table. Elizabeth thought of the only way that she could get rid of him, and the next best thing to decking him, she leaned on the table and slouching a bit sensuously saying, "Could I play against you?"
All he did was nod his head as he knew he would win. Obviously he didn't know who he was playing. They racked as he held up his earnings to show them to her before placing them down upon the table. Everyone gasped to see him risk a thousand dollars on a game of pool.
"Can I go first?" she asked as he nodded his consent. Leaning over the table she lined her cue stick and struck as all the striped balls landed in the pockets one after another. Lastly the 8 ball stood alone on the table lined with all the possible shots and she casually struck that one to win the game. Picking up her winnings and passing by a stunned John Willoughby she patted his cheek before walking away with a smirk on her face.
Elinor however was having no luck in finding Frank Churchill as she glanced about the room looking for any sign of him. Seeing Elizabeth step out of the V.I.P room she raised an eyebrow as she saw her stick a roll of bills into her handbag. Raising her hand up to rest at her mouth she said into the microphone, "Hey Liz what did you do in there?"
She saw Elizabeth glance over as she replied, "Well I found Willoughby and I won a pool game."
"You didn't." she proclaimed silently laughing. "How much did you get?"
"About a thousand." she said. "Any luck with Churchill?"
"None." and leaning into her microphone. "Hey Emma you there?"
A moment of silence was then followed by the sound of men's laughter as they both spotted Emma sitting at a booth surrounded by men as she held up her glass as they all lunged at it. The successor however boasted about his luck at being able to refill her martini. Her look of question signified that she heard their message as she glanced around the room looking for any sign of them. Putting on her sweetest smile she reached for her purse and slid out of the booth. "If you'll excuse me gentleman." she said as they all groaned out of their sadness. And with a wink and a bashful smile she turned on her heel and rolled her eyes at their pathetic nature. Walking away she said, "So any news yet."
"Some, Liz found Willoughby and made some money while she was at it."
"Don't even want to ask." said Emma with a laugh. "Have you seen Bingley anywhere?"
"No, not since we came." said Elizabeth as she looked around her. Seeing something out of the corner of her eye she took a double take as Churchill stood over in the corner looking as suspicious as ever. She kept her eyes glued as she whispered to Elinor. "There he is."
Elinor followed her eye as she said, "I'm on it. Stay behind me, I'll see where he goes." Walking in his direction he glanced over at her while running his fingers through his hair. Stepping into a long hallway he hastened his step as she grew nearer to where he was. He disappeared behind a door as she ran to keep it from closing. Stepping back she kicked it as it slammed open.
No sooner had that happened, she glanced behind her to see Elizabeth and Emma transformed from their evening wear to a black full length body suit that resembled a wet suit. Following him through doors and hallways they opened the last door to be in an alley. Their moment of confusion was ended as they saw him charge Elinor. Taking their positions they reacted as he too showed them his talent in the martial arts. He jabbed at them as they dodged every kick and punch but responded with their own in return.
Elizabeth got a hit in the stomach as she was slung up against a wall and shaking off her pain she returned to her fighting. He approached her as she ran up against the wall in return flipping herself over so that she was now behind him instead of the other way around. He pulled out a gun and pointing it at Elinor she looked with horror as he began firing at will. Jumping over backwards she went through a series of back flips as she dodged each bullet that was shot in her direction. Running out of room she did her final flip and performing a perfect toe-touch she landed and took her karate pose as his gun was out of bullets.
Running in the other direction they followed him as he jumped over an iron fence behind mountains of boxes. Going through the same way they hopped into the closed area and standing in the middle back to back they circled each other waiting for any sign of attack. Suddenly he leapt out from behind a box as he charged him once more. Emma smacked her foot into his face as he pulled out a long chain and attempted to hit her with it. Swinging it from side to side she dodged it only by a fraction of an inch before she grabbed a hold of it and spinning it around it in return caused him to lose his balance.
With that final move he gave up as he stood up and ran in the opposite direction. They were close on his heels as he suddenly disappeared around a corner and checking every possible place they too in return gave up. And turning around they went back towards their car, on guard every second as they expected him to pop out at any minute.
Elizabeth stood at the checkout counter line tapping her credit card furiously on her grocery cart while checking the time. With the recent getaway of Churchill they weren't getting anything out of this case; just a sore neck and a bruised tailbone. Looking around the store for what seemed the hundredth time she spotted a very good-looking (okay) gorgeous young man in the check out line next to her. His brown hair fell in a cascade of curls over his brow as he eyes moved rapidly over the headlines of magazines. With amusement she watched the corners of his mouth form a slight smile as he glanced at a National Inquirer title. She didn't even realize that she was staring at him until the person behind her poked her on the shoulder telling her to move up. It was then that she saw practically everyone in the other lines staring at her. The quiet caught his attention as he raised his eyes to see a very impatient worker telling a beautiful woman, with the red shade of pink in her cheeks, to move up.
Leaving the store with her purchases hanging in plastic bags on either side of her she walked the 5 blocks to her home. Yet with the busy streets and traffic it so happened that the moment she turned the corner was the moment that he did. Running into his chest they both fell back a little and dropping her bags out of surprise she said an unmentionable word while trying to grab the canned goods and fruit that rolled all over the sidewalk. As she reached for an item another hand appeared as she looked up to see the same man helping to pick up her groceries before they were trampled by the afternoon crowd.
"I'm so sorry about that, I wasn't looking where I was going." he said while tossing a group of oranges into the bag.
She managed a weak reassurance as she grabbed the last thing and standing on her feet after being on all fours. He had a bag in his hand as he looked around for any sign of food on the ground. "You must let me help you home."
"That really isn't necessary." she said though she was thinking the opposite.
"No I insist." he said as they started walking towards her home. But it was then that he got a good look at her face and staring intently at her he asked, "Have I seen you somewhere before?"
"I don't think so," she said. "though you might have seen me at the store." while pointing to his shopping bag.
"Oh yeah, you were the one who wouldn't move up." Smirking at his comment she gave him a direct look and he gazed at her face. "But even then I knew that we must have met before, though we haven't even met now." and with that he held out his hand to her. "I'm William Darcy."
Shaking his hand in return she said, "Elizabeth Bennet."
A puzzled look came over his face as he replied with, "I've heard that name before somewhere though I'm not sure where?" Pausing for a moment he replied to his own question by saying, "Do you know Charles Bingley?"
She gave him a quick glance and a look of shock as she recovered herself saying, "How do you know Bingley?"
"I've been friends with him since I was in high school. So I'm guessing you know him?"
"Yes he is a business associate of mine."
"Oh you're in the publishing industry also. Is it as I've always heard, very demanding and so on?"
Trying to think of a logical answer to his question without giving away her secret identity she quickly tried to respond. "Well you know how every job is.....and......oh here's my apartment." she said with relief that she could change the subject.
Walking up the steps she opened the front door to let him through as she pulled out a set of keys to unlock the foyer door. "It's right up here." she said climbing the stairs as she moved to the side to let another tenant pass by her. Arriving at the door marked 3B she then again had to pull out her keys as she opened it and standing back to let him pass.
"You can set those over there on the table." she said pointing to the kitchen as she threw her keys on the counter.
Passing by a side table a picture caught his eye as he set down the groceries. Walking back over he picked up the frame and studied it carefully. It was of Elizabeth and two other girls with Charles Bingley sitting on a beach with the sunset over the horizon behind them.
Glancing from where she was Elizabeth saw him looking at that picture. It was one of her favorites. They were in Hawaii solving a drug case when the opportunity for a picture arose. Yet after it was taken the photographer was planning on shooting them but with a kick here and there he was knocked unconscious. It was always good to have souvenirs, they brought back wonderful memories.
Setting the picture back down he turned to see her staring at him. Holding her gaze for a moment he asked where it was taken. Retelling the story with the exception of drugs and fighting he became more intrigued than ever. She told him a few funny stories of things like that of her with Bingley and such with him telling a few of his own. They of course fell easily into conversation relating stories of old friends and embarrassing stories of Bingley.
In mid laugh he stopped suddenly and gazing straight into her eyes he filled the space between him and leaning up against the kitchen cabinets next to her. It was one of those moments that they both loved. And tucking a strand of hair behind her ear Elizabeth nervously raised her head to look him in the eye. He slowly leaned in then suddenly a ringing was heard as William sighed an annoyed sigh as he reached down and pulled out his phone.
After hanging up about a problem in the shipping department he regretfully looked at her. "I have to go."
"Of course." she said understandingly. "I know that situation very well."
Walking him to the door she opened in while leaning on the frame. "Could I have your number?" he timidly asked and with a laugh she pulled a pen out of her purse while looking for a slip of paper.
Running out of possibilities she took his hand in hers before turning it palm side up as she wrote down her number. It was all William could do to keep his self-control. They held gazes once more as it was then interrupted with his pager beeping an annoying little ring.
"I'll call you later." he said after glancing at the message.
"Good-bye." she said sweetly with a smile as she closed the door on his retreating figure. Turning around and leaning against the frame she slid to the floor in a melodramatic fashion while biting her lower lip with a smile. "He's going to call me."
Stepping out of her apartment while locking the door behind her Elinor stepped into the foyer, and checking her mailbox she flipped through the envelopes. "Bills ... bills ... contest application ... when did I order a recliner? ... Ohh the new People."
Suddenly she felt a tap on her shoulder as she turned around to see Edward Ferrars. "Hello." he said waving.
"Oh hi." She said with a large smile. "How are you coming with your new apartment?"
"Very well, besides the fact that my sister is planning on decorating it."
"What she doesn't have good taste?" she said with a laugh.
"Somewhat just not my style." he said while rubbing the back of his neck somewhat timidly.
"Well good luck.", she said as she started to walk away. She knew that if she added a little something to her walk he might stop her on the way.
"Ummm Elinor?" She really knows men.
Turning around while tossing her hair he was taken back by the smile and raise of the eyebrows that she flashed in his direction. "Yes?"
"I was wondering if you would like to come to a welcoming party at my apartment next Thursday?" he sputtered out hesitantly.
"Well actually ..." she began.
"Oh what am I thinking," he said interrupting. "You probably have some guy that's taking you out." while backing up a bit.
"Actually no, that's very rare if that happens. I'd love to go." she said sincerely.
"Ah so I guessed wrong?" he said while shifting his weight on either foot.
"Yeah, I hate to admit it. But I'm impressed that you faced the fact unlike other men I go out with." saying with a laugh. However she stopped mid-laugh as she realized what she had said; "go out with". He noticed it as he raised his eyes and his shifting ceased the moment she said it.
"I meant, see, or no, ummmm that I know in my acquaintance. Oh forget it." she said with a smirk.
"It's alright.", he said laughing. "I understand."
"So next Thursday at your place? Got it." and turning on her heel she felt her cheeks burn at the conversation.
"Hey Elinor." he said as she turned around to see him. Hands in his pockets swinging on the balls of his feet while staring at her.
"Yes." she replied while looking at him in the eyes.
And stepping forward towards her, he came closer and closer as he raised his hand. "You forgot your mail."
His words slowly registered in her mind as she was staring at his mouth. Shaking into the present she laughed while saying, "Of course."
He let his fingers linger on hers as he gave it to her. "See ya next Thursday, or maybe sooner."
"I'll look forward to it." he said with a smile.
"Bye." said Elinor while backing up towards the door, keys in hand.
"Bye." he said as she completely turned around and disappeared into the streets.
Skipping down the stoop she pulled down her sunglasses that were resting on her head as she headed off in the direction of the park. Letting out a sigh she said to herself, "That never happens, usually it is the men that are all woozy."
Emma added some more almonds on top of the toss salad as she began digging through her kitchen cabinets. Suddenly a ringing was heard as the oven timer went off and slipping on her cow oven-mitts she pulled the casserole out of the oven. Just then another bell rang as she went to answer the phone and balancing it on one shoulder while trying to pull off her mitts she heard Bingley's voice on the other line.
"Hey Em, I got a problem."
"Well hello, what did you do this time?"
"You know at the party we crashed?"
"Yeah what happened to you afterwards we didn't hear anything?"
"Well I went to the Dinettes Coffee Shop as usual, ordered my latte, and pulled out the paper with a very funny comic section, then she walked in."
"Who is she?"
"Well this girl that I knew in high school and I was basically in love with her through freshman and sophomore year."
"Why didn't you go out with her?"
"Well I was too nervous and when I finally got to guts to ask her my dad got transferred to the city. Anyway we started catching up on things and we talked the entire night. It was wonderful."
"How is that a problem?"
"I didn't realize until now but her name is Bennet, Jane Bennet."
"So ... ?"
"She's Elizabeth's older sister."
"Nice knowing ya Bing."
"Thanks a lot. So do I tell Elizabeth, do I tell Jane, what?"
"Are you going to see her again?"
"Yes."
"Then definitely tell Elizabeth and see what she thinks. She hasn't seen her sister in years, but you don't want to give away her identity at the same time." pausing for a moment. "It's so hard to call."
"But you're a girl."
"Really, you think so?"
"You're supposed to know what to do in these situations."
"Most of the time yes, but Bingley you're a big boy now, you can make these decisions on your own."
"It's so hard."
"I know Bingley, but we're going to half to go home and think about what to do aren't we?"
A knowing sigh was heard as he said, "Yeah."
"Well I'm about to burn my lunch, so you have yourself a nice day. Bye."
"Yeah.", he said while not paying any attention. "I'll go think now."
"Good for you." and hanging up the phone she ran her finger along the edge of the wooden spoon, scooping all the cake batter onto her thumb. And sticking it into her mouth she said to herself. "I am the perfect problem solver and a rather good cook." while going back to the mixing bowl for more chocolate cake.
"So what did he say?", asked Elizabeth as she pulled another hairpin out of her mouth and stuck it in her bun on the top her head.
"Well he invited me to a party at his place next week.", replied Elinor as she pulled on her solid black shoes.
"Oh, a party.", said Elizabeth with a wicked smile.
"Yes, Miss, I have to know everything, Elizabeth."
"What, I was just curious. So what are you going to wear?"
"No idea. Besides I'm busy with work right now."
"Yeah sure."
"Shut up.", she said teasingly. "Okay you ready to go?"
"As always." and leaning down to her wrist she said into her sleeve, "Hey Em, you copy?"
"Loud and clear.", replied her shirt.
"Okay, we're ready and waiting. Go in."
Emma on the other hand was wearing a short skirt and revealing top to complete her character of being a ditz. She walked down the elaborate hallway of the elegant hotel to the door marked 5B and rapped on the frame. Hearing a vague "Coming" she squared her shoulders and took a deep breath.
Opening the door to its full length there stood Willoughby.
"Hi there." she said cutely(is that a word?).
"Hey yourself." said he in return. "What's a lady like yourself doing at the door of a loser like me?"
At this Elizabeth had to roll her eyes. "Can't he at least come up with a different pick-up line?" she questioned to Elinor as they peered down from the sunroof. Seeing him talk to Emma they judged as a good sign.
"Not much, I heard that you were new here in the building so I brought you cookies.", she said offering them from the Tupperware box.
"That's so sweet of you. They look delicious.", he said picking one up. "Come on in." while stepping back.
"Okay, thank you."
"She's in." said Elizabeth to Elinor as she fixed together the rope on the edge of the building. "Wait for the signal though."
Walking her over to the couch he offered her a seat as he sat right next to her. "These look so good." he said while looking directly at her. She gave a seductive smile in return.
"Go ahead try one," and leaning in closer. "You'll love the taste."
Bringing up the cookie to his mouth he took a bite and the moan of pleasure signaled that he would be eating more. He did as he soon reached over for his sixth.
"You know these are very ... very ... excuse me ... feel a little light headed." and with that he fell to the ground, out cold. Bending over to feel his pulse she raised his wrist and nodded in return, before making a motioning gesture towards the girls. With that they opened the window as Elizabeth slid down the rope with ease and was quickly followed by Elinor.
"How long will he be out?", asked Emma.
"To how much he ate of them for about another 2 hours, so let's get going.", said Elinor, and pulling out a side table she hopped on top of it and pulled out a screwdriver and began to unscrew his vents. "These are huge, Liz you can fit in here." she said while jumping down to go to the others.
With that Elizabeth, in one jump, latched her hands on to the ceiling and swinging herself up was soon inside the ceiling. Instantly she set to work fastening the cameras and recorders. "Emma," she called from above, "go to the bedroom and kitched and start working." while throwing down the equipment.
"What do we do when he wakes up?" asked Emma from the kitchen as she crawled into the air conditioning vent in the wall.
"He won't remember a thing. He'll think that he just fell asleep." replied Elinor from the bedroom. "Besides we should be finished in just a few minutes anyway."
Elizabeth reached for another nail as she felt something strange. Slowly turning her head she looked straight into a video camera, on record, right next to where she was. Her breathing became light as she relived that it was motion sensitive as the red light slowly blinked off.
Elinor walked under where Elizabeth's feet dangled out of the ceiling to see her staring wide-eyed and barely breathing. "Elizabeth what are you doing?"
Calling out of the corner of her mouth into the speaker she whispered, "Don't move. There's a camera up here."
"De-activate it now." she whispered back. "Is it motion sensitive?"
"Yeah."
"Then on the count of three grab it and pull out the wires. You know how to do these things, just do it faster than usual."
"Okay."
"One ... two ... three."
With that she grabbed the sides and pulled with all her might as the wires shot out of the wall. "Throw it down." called Elinor as she tossed it towards her. Pushing the eject button the tape popped out as she stuck it in her bag. "Let's go girls." With that they climbed out of their positions and screwed back on the vents as they made their way back up the rope.
Jumping in Elizabeth's red convertible they sped off towards headquarters.
"Who would have put that there. They should have known that we were coming. I mean why would Willoughby video tape himself in his own house?" asked Emma from the backseat.
"He didn't Emma, someone else was there before us, and I can't imagine who though. I mean Willoughby is a suspect, but the police turned the case over to us." replied Elizabeth.
"Unless," said Elinor.
Emma made a motioning gesture from her seat, while saying "Yes?"
"Unless, he honestly has nothing to do with it."
"You don't think that could be it do you?" said Elizabeth.
"I don't know, he does have a lot of enemies."
"Could that be an option?" asked Emma.
"I don't know. But right now anything is possible. Why would someone set that up though?"
"Do you still think that Churchill is a suspect?" asked Elizabeth.
"Yes, why else would he run off at our sight and then try to kill us for no reason. Even if he wasn't involved in the case why would he act so suspicious? And now Willoughby's apartment has been invaded before we even got there. Someone is trying to make sure that we don't get anywhere with this case."
"Yeah and they're doing a good job at it." muttered Emma.
"Still, we have to get to the bottom of this. Because just by knowing that we were going to be there, they'll know what our next move will be too." And with that Elizabeth turned the corner and they were out of sight.
Elizabeth walked from the kitchen in her bright pink pajama pants and fluffy slippers as she chomped on a can of honey-roasted peanuts. Today was their day off and rightfully so as they deserved it. Yet the case was still ever present in her mind as she plopped herself upon her couch. Laying back on a mound of throw pillows she grabbed the remote and flipped on the TV. as she surfed absent-mindedly through the channels. Turning to a news station she saw no reports of the case for she was relieved. They usually told the press after they were solved for privacy reasons.
A ringing was heard in the distance as she turned her head in the direction of her phone to see the lights flash on and off. She chose to ignore it though; if it was a call from Bing, than she would have to work that day. Getting off the couch she walked into the kitchen and as she was putting the bright yellow cap on the Planters can the answering machine came on. "Hi, you've reached Elizabeth. I'm not here or I would have no use for an answering machine. Please leave a long message describing my greatness and importance in your life and I'll consider returning your call. I like to fell loved." She reached up to open the cabinet and taking out a water glass she almost dropped it when she heard the message.
"Hi Elizabeth, this is William. William Darcy that is, Bing's friend. I was just calling to see...." But it was cut off as she sprung across the floor to reach it.
"Hello?" she said while out of breath.
"Oh, there you are. Did you just get in?"
"Ummm, yeah I went to get my mail." she lied.
"Well I told you I would call."
"Yeah," she said smiling. "thank you."
"I was actually wondering if you were doing anything Thursday? Because if not I was hoping you would like to do something."
"Of course, I'd like that." her smile growing wider.
"Anywhere you want to go, just tell me."
"O.k.," she said grinning like a freshman. "How about some place quiet and outdoors. We could have a picnic in Central Park. I've always wanted to do that."
"That sounds like fun. Anything you would like to eat? Or are you one of those girls that refuses to eat?"
"Are you kidding? I'd eat the table if I was hungry enough." she said laughing.
"Right." he said laughing as well. "So I guess I'll see you then. I'll pick you up around 11:00. Is that alright?"
"Yeah, of course."
"Well I'll let you get back to paying bills or taking a magazine quiz."
"Actually my scores are very good. I was ranked incredibly independent, thank you very much."
"Ah yes, well I ranked co-dependent upon the guy in the relationship." he said as she began to laugh. "I'll see you Thursday."
"O.k., bye."
"Good-bye."
She hung up the phone with a smile. "Our kids are going to be so cute." she said with a Clueless accent. "He'd be such a good father." she said as she began to laugh. "I'm such a nerd." she muttered under her breath, as the phone rang again. Running to catch it she giggled as she knew it was him.
"Hello?" she said with a high-pitched drawl.
"Hey Liz, it's Bing."
"Hey." she said normally.
"Could you come up to the office for just like 10 or 15 minutes? We've got some things to go over." he said lying.
"Ummmm, sure."
"Great."
"I'll be over in a few minutes. Let me get dressed real quick first."
Opening the door to their office, Elizabeth pulled off her sunglasses as Bingley came out of the adjoining room. Stuffing them into her purse she said "You wanted to see me?"
"Yeah, have a seat." as he motioned towards a chair. Walking over he sat in one across from her as he leaned on his knees. "I called you up here to talk about something. It's not work related," he said looking at her briefcase that she brought with her. "It's of personal matters." she looked distraught as he soon replied, "You aren't in trouble or anything I just needed to talk to you about something."
"Oh good, at first I thought I was being fired."
"Why would we fire you? You're the best we've got."
"Thank you Bing." she said cheerfully.
"And because you're so beautiful and forgiving," he said with a nervous smile. "and one of my best friends I wanted you to hear this from me." He took a pause and a deep breath. "I'm voing vout width you sista." he mumbled.
"What was that?" she said leaning forward.
"I'm voing vout width Vane."
"What?"
"Jane Bennet and I are going out." he said loudly before ducking.
"What!" she spat.
"I didn't mean for it to happen, I didn't even know that she was your sister and then we got to talking and she told me your name and I said that I worked with you as a...." he said rather quickly as he was cut off.
"You're dating her! And you told her you knew me! My family hasn't seen me in 6 years, what an I going to tell them I was doing?!?" she said standing up.
"Oh Lord." he said jumping up as she followed him around the room.
"What did you tell her I did?!?" she said as he began to quicken his steps as he jumped over the back of the couch trying to dodge her.
"Nothing really, just that you were in investigating services."
"You told her that?!?" as she picked up a magazine and hit him over the head with it. "Why did you tell her that?!?"
"I don't know Elizabeth, but I love you. Please don't hurt me I've seen you fight." he said timidly.
"I can't believe you told her that!" she said as she smacked him over the head again. "Bingley I can't have my family in my life right now. They can't know what I do here!" while chasing him over the office.
"Elizabeth stop ... ouch ... Liz ... I didn't want to hurt you ... ow ..."
"I can't believe you!"
"Elizabeth give me a minute to talk." he said pleadingly. "I didn't mean to hurt you, I didn't even know that the two of you were related until an hour or two later. I'm sorry but I really like her, but I don't want to lose you Liz. You're one of my best friends and like the sister I never had." he said sadly.
She sighed and ran her fingers through her hair while throwing the magazine aside. "I'm sorry Bing, I over-reacted. Come here." she said while opening her arms as he came and hugged her. "You're my best friend too. But don't you have two sisters?" she said to the side of his face against hers.
"Yeah, but they don't count. They're mean." he said as she began to laugh.
"I'm fine now and if you want to date her that's fine too."
"I'm glad." he said pulling away from her.
"And you know why I'm alright with this?" she said hugging him again.
"Why is that?"
"Because I'm dating your best friend."
Emma hurried her stride down Fifth as it began to lightly rain. Her hands were full of Bloomingdale's bags as her only way of comfort was emptying her wallet and maxing out her credit cards. The case had her worried lately. "If they know what we are going to do next, does that mean that they're stalking us?" she said to herself. "Very scary thought, will put it out of my head immediately with how cute my new pants are. O.k., I'm thinking of cute pants, cute pants, cute pants." But soon even that led her to the thoughts of being stalked. She was worried that they might even know how much she actually paid for them. "Great another scary thought." Suddenly it really began to pour down as she called a taxi and stepped in.
When she was about to tell him the address she stopped. "What if they can trace down where I live and when I'm coming home?" So instead of her address, she gave him George's.
Arriving at his apartment building she paid the driver and got out, while running up the steps and ducking her head from the rain. Stepping under the porch she paged his apartment as she heard his voice. "Hello?"
"Hey it's me. Let me up."
"Oh hey, hold on a sec." The buzzing sound went off as she opened up the door and stepped inside. Getting on the elevator, she rode up to his very posh apartment in a very posh building. The ding on the floor number sounded as the doors opened. There he stood leaning up against his door.
"Hey." he said with a slight smile.
"Hey." she said while wiping the water off her forehead.
"It's pretty nasty out there." he replied while opening his door and letting her in as she followed him. "Please tell me you didn't but another outfit?"
The guilty look on her face confirmed his question. "Yes I did, but it's very cute."
"It never ceases to amaze me how you can shop without limit."
"It's just one of my many talents."
"So what brings you here?" he said while sitting on the couch and propping his feet up on the table in front of him. Some people would never guess that he's a millionaire, while in his jeans and black sweater with socks. Switching through the channels he landed on a football game and all attention was lost.
"Well, it started to rain and I figured you would be here." she said while sitting next to him with a bottle of water that she got out of his refrigerator. "I wanted to get out of it, but still felt like visiting my good friend." she said while leaning on him as his arm was draped behind her and curling up her feet up under her. "Who's winning?"
"Colorado. I'm surprised too, it's against Nebraska."(my best friend is obsessed with Nebraska, so I had to fluff it up a bit.)
"Oh."
Suddenly he shouted "Oh come on. What an idiot!" and throwing up his hands in disgust.
"Calm down there George." she said with a laugh.
He began to laugh also as he stared down at her. Noticing his stare she raised her head to look up at him. "What?" she questioned.
"You're beautiful Emma. But you know that."
"Thank you. What brought that on?"
"I don't know, I just felt like saying it." he said as he ran his finger across her cheek. He leaned forward and kissed her forehead in a brotherly manner as she laid her head on his shoulder.
"We should do something." she said.
"What do you want to do?"
"I don't know, something fun."
"Hmmmm, we can spit off the top of the Empire State Building, or we could throw rocks at rollerbladers in Central Park. It's all up to you."
She gave out a little laugh before replying "I'm not really in the mood to spit at the ground or break someone's leg so lets go to a club or something." Suddenly an idea popped into her head. "Let's go dancing!"
"No."
"Why not you know you love it. You are a very good dancer, you just won't admit it. Like that time when you danced with what's-her-name from whatcha-ma-call-it at that social thing because some guy slighted her and you were a very good dancer then."
"Yeah then."
"You still are. So it's final. This weekend, or sometime we are going dancing. And you are going to have fun."
"Can't we just see Harry Potter again?"
"Ohhh, that would be fun." she said with an excited look. "But no, this time we are going to go dancing. And afterwards we'll see Harry Potter for the fourth time.
He reluctantly looked at her before saying "Alright, fine were going dancing. But you buy the popcorn at the movie."