Jump to new as of August 16, 2003
Posted on Wednesday, 6 August 2003
William
I have been waiting months to run into Elizabeth. Now that I have, I'm speechless, thought William.
How very fortunate to have Charles join me for the day. Charles held up the major part of the conversation with Lizzy and Jane. Having Charles with me was the first fortunate thing to happen that day; running into Jane and Elizabeth was the second. I had intended to reintroduce Charles and Jane to right a wrong; thankfully this accidental meeting accomplished just that.
I suggested lunch and shot a quick look at Elizabeth to gage her reaction. She agreed as did the rest of the party, so the four of us headed down restaurant row. I could hardly make out the conversation, because I was too immersed in seeing Elizabeth again. Why can't I break free? Why can't I be more like Charles and just happily chat as if she has no hold over me? Because she does have a hold over me and even after she refused my offer of marriage, I am unable to love her less. I must show her I took her reproofs to heart. Show her I’ve changed. I know now what life without Elizabeth is like.
She caught me staring at her; her eyes, are they laughing at me? I look away. She has every right to think ill of me. How could I have been so presumptuous, so sure in separating Charles from her sister Jane?
They suggest a restaurant to me. I nod in agreement not having the slightest clue they selected the place right in front of us. One question burns in my mind as I reach for the restaurant door, holding it open for her. Now that we meet again will she see I’ve changed, is there any hope?
Elizabeth's view of the same events
I was ready for some lunch, after spending another morning trying to cheer up my sister Jane. We’d only been in London a few days. We both needed this holiday, Jane most of all I fear. However the days of cold rain and dreary fog did nothing to lift Jane's spirits. It was that afternoon we met fate. There, equally shocked, frozen to the sidewalk was Charles and unfortunately for me, his friend William accompanied him.
Charles greeted Jane with the same astonishment I had in seeing his friend, William again. Well isn't this cozy the four of us together again. William looks good, too good! My heart flinched. I knew this day would come again. I stole another glance at him, he always had a way of making a girls heart stop. He can't be too happy about Jane and Charles running into each other again. I quickly look at him, his stiff face confirming my thoughts. Surprisingly, he extended a lunch invitation complete with an insincere smile.
I couldn’t resist taking him up on it, "Actually Jane and I were just about to go for lunch. Joining you two would make it all that much nicer."
I felt like I would gag on those last words but I would do anything to further Jane's chances of spending time with Charles. It was very cruel of William to come between Jane and Charles, separating them, but I certainly wasn’t going to let my feelings ruin Jane’s chances now.
Charles asked Jane what type of food she would prefer. Jane asked Charles what he was in the mood for and back and forth they went, deferring to each other. How very much like them, at least “Mr. Full of Himself” wasn't adding any more misery by joining the conversation, only angrily boring his eyes into me. Well, at least I know what he'd like to have for lunch. Me! I laughed as I caught his stare. Now starving, I suggested O'Malley's. Not exactly a sophisticated place, but we were standing right in front of it and at least this way I would get to eat lunch sometime before the sun sets. Jane and Charles deferred to William to see what he thought and thankfully he nodded his agreement. Mr. William Darcy of Pemberley was seen dining at O'Malley's, I couldn't wait for the London society papers to print that! This lunch could be fun.
He held the door opened for us as I walked past him. Wow, he smells great!.....get a grip Liz he's a jerk remember?....Yeah, but he's a studly, great looking, great smelling, jerk. Never underestimate the power of great cologne! I must really be hungry thinking these thoughts about William. Then again I would have to be blind not to think these thoughts about William Darcy. A part of me ached, seeing him again. Somehow, deep down, I knew we would see each other again. It hurt though, knowing what happened and all. Let it go…forget about it…forget about him…Not a chance! Not yet. I felt the anger rise up again.
We sat in a booth, girls on one side, guy and jerk on the other. Did he just say he was glad to see us? I bet! Leaning back in the booth I studied my lunch companions. William seems softer toward Jane, softer in general. Maybe there is a secret potion in his cologne and it's having a lingering effect on me. Charles is just Charles. Happy go lucky, sun is bright, birds are singing. Was he this upbeat before running into Jane today or has she brought about this over exuberant personality? I certainly see a change in Jane. She went from drowned puppy to well, just like Charles, happy, happy, happy. I hope it works for them the second time around. I hoped there would be a second time around and there will be if I have anything to do about it. Maybe I should just take Mr. Relationship wrecker out of the picture. How could I do that, let me count the ways...157, 158...no seriously that might not be such a bad idea. The waiter took our drink order and left. An awkward silence crept over the table, surprisingly William broke the silence.
"Jane, Elizabeth, I don't know what your schedule is like while you are in London, but please, I would, …I mean we would," he said looking at Charles, "like to invite you to join us for a day. We are staying at Pemberley. There’s a great art museum not five miles from there. It is a favorite with tourists. We could start with the museum, and afterward visit the small shops in downtown Lambton, and then if you are up for it, have dinner at Pemberley. What do you say?"
"Oh, that sounds like a wonderful idea! What do you think Lizzy?" said Jane.
Is William really inviting us out again and for a full day? One would think HE was trying to get Jane and Charles together. No way! Not possible! Or maybe... he's trying to get us back together. That will be a cold day .….
“Lizzy?” Jane prompted. “William just invited us out for the day what do you think?”
”Sorry, Jane, umm…” excitement was clearly written all over Jane's face.”Sounds good to me, we have no fixed engagements."
How could I say no. I am very happy for Jane and perhaps this will give me a chance to put my "get rid of Darcy" plan into action. I cast him a wicked grin and think, step one, act nice to him, so much for being able to make sport of him over lunch though.
I humored them with tales of our first days in London and between Jane’s good mood, Charles laughter and seeing William smile I began to relax and forget myself.
The waiter arrived with the check, then leaned down to me and whispered, "Excuse me, there is a person who is asking for you up front, could you follow me please."
“Who could that be? Not even Charlotte knows I'm here.” I excuse myself and follow him to the front waiting area. It was then I discovered the real person wanting me is the waiter.
"I just wanted a moment to speak with you." He said. "I saw you and your party as soon as you came in. Your not from around here I gathered by your accent and well it's not everyday I meet someone that strikes me quite like you have. My name's George." He held out his hand but I wasn't quite sure of this unorthodox way of meeting.
"Elizabeth," I said curtly as I shook his hand then quickly let go. "I don’t mean to be rude but please excuse me; I'm going back to my table and friends."
"Not so fast.” He said catching my arm, “As I see it you’re not too enthralled with Mr. Polished and of course the other two only have eyes for each other. I'm a native Londoner and could show you a more personal side of London than you're likely to find anywhere else."
Is this guy for real? Yuck! If he's the personal tour, I think I'd rather stay with the group tour, a very large group.
"No thanks."
"Well at least take my number," he said stuffing a scrap of paper into my pocket. "You never know when you might need it."
"Like never," I said as I walked off. I never dreamt I would need it so soon.
William
My mind quickly seized the opportunity when Elizabeth went with the waiter. “Charles, would you be so kind as to bring the car around for the ladies.” I said it with such a firm look hoping he would just agree.
"Sure, I would be delighted. It is several blocks away by the bookstore, but I won't be too long." He said casting a smile at Jane.
As he strolled off, I turned my attention to Jane.
"Jane, I have been waiting for an opportunity to speak with you on a matter I am quite ashamed of."
She waited for me to continue, “It’s about you and Charles actually. You see, I heard something very damaging about you personally. I believed it without talking with you first. I just assumed the worst and quickly hastened Charles to distance himself from you. I spent several days trying to convince him he was utterly deceived by your character and your intentions where to marry him for his money and divorce him shortly thereafter. In the end, I transfered him out of the country."
Jane just sat stunned, her expression filled with disbelief.
"I am truly sorrowful for my interference, more than I can express.” I watched as my words sank in, her eyes started to well up with tears. Gently I reached across the table and wrapped her small hand with both of mine. “I'm sorry for the grief this has caused not only to you but Charles as well. It was very wrong of me to interfere and I had hoped to make it right by putting you in each other's paths again. I see fate has helped me there.”
She pulled her hand away and looked away. The silence was deafening.
“Believe me Jane when I say I have only the highest respect for you and am very sorry. Will you forgive me for my misjudgment and cruelty toward you, I have no right to ask, but I am...I’m so very sorry."
“Why are you telling me about this now?” she quietly asked.
“Charles would have never left if I had not interfered. I am the one who made sure he left. I was wrong and I’m sorry. I’m telling you this so you don’t hold it against him. Place the blame where it belongs…with me.”
She played with her napkin ring, obviously in thought. After a moment she looked up at me. I could see the pain, but I could also see forgiveness.
"William, I forgive you. I guess you only meant to protect Charles and who can fault you for that.”
I pressed on, “And about believing….well….thinking you capable….”
She just waved her hand. “Don’t worry about it….. You know I'm really quite harmless don't you? She looked up into my eyes searching for confirmation I hoped she’d find. With that she continued, “And between you and me, I love Charles very much and would never hurt him. I think we have that in common, don't we?"
"Charles is a very lucky man!” I said noticing for the first time how kind and forgiving Jane really is. I only hoped her sister has some of that forgiving nature. “Unfortunately I've lost Elizabeth over this whole mistake." I added.
"It's nothing that can't be made right. You're both well suited for each other, I'm sure it will all work out"
"You really think so? I wish I had your optimism Jane." Before anything more could be said Elizabeth made her way back to the table.
"Where's Charles? You didn't run him off again did you?" She said arching her brow and flashing her eyes at me.
“No, quite the contrary, he is performing a chivalrous act for you ladies." I said giving her my best smile glad that Jane and I had a chance to talk.
"Sent him on an errand did you? Let me guess, today isn't you day for being chivalrous."
Feeling up to the challenge I replied, "I would happily be your chivalrous gentleman, if I felt you would receive it properly."
I was surprised she didn’t rise to the challenge with one of her quick retorts, instead she just looked away. She is beautiful.
Jane broke the silence, "What did the waiter want?"
"Oh, I'll tell you later Jane." Elizabeth replied.
"Keeping secrets are we?" I said, unable to quench my curiosity.
Without a moments hesitation she replied, "Very well," and reached into her pocket pulling out a little slip of paper. Showing it to Jane with a smirk toward me she said, "This is his phone number, he said if I wanted a more personal tour of London, he would be happy to oblige."
I bet. My heart sank as I thought of her accepting it. Jane gave me a sympathetic look.
“Shall we go, ladies?” I offered, needing some fresh air.
Elizabeth
We exchanged numbers and all agreed to meet on Thursday morning, today being Tuesday this would give me time to get ideas from my friend Charlotte on “The Darcy plan.” We parted, Jane and I declining the chivalrous offer of driving us to our hotel in favor of walking in the crisp air enjoying our surroundings.
"I think that went well." Jane said breaking the silence between us as we walked back to our hotel.
"Yes, very well if you ask me. Charles seemed delighted to see you and I doubt he will so easily part from you again even if Darcy insists he does so.”
"Lizzy, don't be so hard on William, we all have errors in judgment. I just think he misread me and was only looking out for the best interests of his friend. You know he lost you over it all. He must have really believed Charles to be in danger or he wouldn't have risked losing you."
"Either that or I wasn't that important to him after all."
Jane had a serious look on her face "Lizzy, I really want to talk with you about something that has started to concern me lately. Ever since things didn't work out with William, now don't take this wrong, but you have been sharp, more critical than normal."
"What do you mean? Like what?" I said defensively
You were always witty with a quick comeback, but funny and harmless. Lately thought I really sense some bitterness creeping in. Everyone, everyone has flaws and major hang-ups, but it's a beautiful thing to be loved in spite of them. You love me despite me wandering around this planet with rose-colored glasses even when the situation could use a sterner look, but that's me. I like believing the best of people. I'm not saying put on rose-colored glasses, but don't put on black ones either. That's all."
I thought about what she said. She was right; it was more hurt than humor coming out of me.
"I love you Lizzy." she said the last part with tears welling up in her eyes and we held each other tight.
"I'm sorry Jane, I know your right." Look what he has done to me, I thought…wait that's not true, my behavior is what I allowed to happen because he hurt my sister and didn't prove to be that man on the pedestal I wanted him to be. Perhaps I let my temper rule were it shouldn't have. I know that now.
"I'll be okay Jane, thanks for caring enough to say something, even though I'm flawed with a critical eye and a sharp tongue." I said as we shared a smile together.
We arrived back at our hotel; I threw myself on the bed as Jane put down the shopping bags from this mornings adventure.
"I'm up for a quick nap before we have to meet up with Charlotte, how about you?" I said.
"You go ahead Lizzy, I'm going to catch up on some overdue primping, starting with a manicure. I've really let myself go lately and with Charles back, …well anyways."
"Yeah, I forgot you're the one who never needs beauty sleep."
"Ha! Ha!" Jane said as she threw a pillow at me. "Say, what's this about the waiter? Your not seriously thinking about taking him up on a tour of London are you?"
"No, he's definitely not my type, but when William pushed, I couldn't resist taunting him. Did you see the look on his face? It was priceless." Now that gives me an idea. If I let William give me a personal tour of London I can keep him away from Jane and Charles. At least it's a start.
"Jane, thinking about what you said earlier, I think I might have been too hard on William with my comments. I was thinking of letting him give me a one on one tour tomorrow to make up for my harshness. What do you think?"
"Really?!! I think that would be a great idea!"
"I don't want to leave you stranded, perhaps you and Charles could spend the..."
"My minds already moving in that direction Lizzy, but thanks for the nudge."
I curl up in the bed pulling up the soft sheet. This trip seems to be accomplishing my goal of cheering Jane up and in a better way than I had anticipated. I faded off to sleep with thoughts of my sister's happiness.
"Lizzy, Lizzy, come on its time to get up. You need to start getting ready if we're to meet Charlotte by 6."
"Yeah, just five more minutes," I said still dreaming happy thoughts "My beauty sleeps not finished yet."
"Well that's as beautiful as sleep's going to make you, now please get up. I put off waking you as long as I could."
Seeing me not move Jane continued, "Please Lizzy, we need to meet Charlotte."
"Oh the things I do for you." I said opening my eyes and slowly sitting up.
We had plans this evening to meet up with Charlotte, an old friend from school, who was promoted recently. This moved her to London and away from us. She heads up the Etiquette division for DeBourgh Inc., which specializes in event planning, catering and etiquette classes.
"Where did she say to meet her?" I said to Jane sticking my head out the bathroom.
"Out in front of the fountain on Baker Street at 6 o'clock, so please hurry,"
"Ok, Ok, two more minutes, I'll be almost as beautiful as you.
"Say Lizzy, have you ever met this guy she's bringing? What was his name? Ronald or Robert? Well something like that. She seems to like him very much the way she goes on about him."
"She just met him a couple of months ago, how attached could she be?"
"Well, I'm curious to finally meet him. He sounds wonderful. I do hope it works out for her."
I went through my condensed routine of putting myself together for the night. "There I'm ready, let me just give a quick call to William to set things up for tomorrow. Where are they staying? Oh yes, Pemberley." I dialed and waited but no answer.
"Hi William, this is Elizabeth. I'm sorry about my behavior last night with the telephone number and all…and well…I was…a bit rude. Anyways, I was wondering if you would…that is if you have the time to show me around London. Just an idea, anyways I’m staying at the Dorchester Hotel, room 418. Bye."
It was all I could do to get that out of my mouth. I’m sure he'll be surprised to receive that message when he gets home; it's cruel to mislead him. What to do? Well, I'll just be up front and tell him because of Jane and Charles getting back together we will be thrown together more often and I would at least like for us to be on friendly terms, but it's only ever going to be friendship. I don’t want him thinking I’m throwing myself at him or that he has a chance with me. I'm glad to see his plan to sabotage their relationship didn't work. It's nice to know that true love really does win out in the end, well perhaps for some. I can still feel the ache in my heart but I push it deep down.
"Ready if you are Jane." I called out.
"Wow! You look great! If I thought napping could do that for me I would certainly have joined you." She said.
"Thanks, maybe I can catch myself another waiter." I said with a wink
"If he's like the last one, do me a favor, throw him back." We both laughed.
We rounded the corner and looked around the fountain. Jane spotted our childhood friend first; my eyes quickly went to the three guys with her. What was Charlotte up to?
"I see her,” I said to Jane, “But who's the crew?" I waved at Charlotte as we came across the plaza.
"Jane, Elizabeth! I'm so happy to see you again!" Charlotte said and gave us both a big hug. "I'd like you to meet Richard Fitzwilliam, he's the one Ms.DeBourgh requested to show me around London when I first arrived.
I leaned in to shake his hand taking in his form, not bad Char. "Nice to meet you."
"Likewise, I always enjoy meeting Charlotte's friends." Richard said. "Now I'd like you to meet two friends of mine, this is John Wentworth and Scott Kennedy"
"You wanted to cheer Jane up, think of this as my way of helping." Charlotte whispered in my ear. "They're rich and available too!"
"I see London's been very good to you Charlotte." I joked out loud. "Not just one guy, but three."
Richard smiled, "I haven't seen Charlotte much lately due to work. I wanted to take her to Orleans, a great dinner and dance club, here by your hotel. Well I thought with her two good friends coming into town, it would be just the spot for tonight. John and Scott are two business associates of mine. We've been putting in some long hours on this project so I invited them to come along after we wrapped up work today."
Jane greeted them politely and I followed taking in their appearance. John was similar in appearance to Charles Bingley, blond hair, blue eyes, but with a slightly more muscular build. While Scott had intense dark eyes, I quickly looked away, and I believe chestnut brown hair. Nice smile too!
"So, you work together, what do you do at DeBourgh? I said as we made our way down the avenue to Orleans.
"Oh we don't work for DeBourgh." Richard laughed, "I’m partners with my older brother in a company called Matlock. John's consulting firm is handling our migration from Windows to Linux and Scott here is overhauling our company’s website and intranet."
"Scott's a consultant brought over from the U.S." John replied. "So you see we're like patchwork, but it gets the job done nicely."
"Speak for yourself." Scott said, "Your job may be going nicely, I'm still dealing with major design and server issues."
"But I thought Charlotte said Ms. DeBourgh asked you to show her around London." I asked Richard.
"Oh well that," Charlotte said, "You see when I arrived to Ms. DeBourgh's office Richard was there paying a visit to Ms. DeBourgh, who is his aunt and she volunteered him by suggesting he show me around London to help me get acclimated so I could be productive as soon as possible."
"Very much like my aunt to volunteer me for things, but this I must say I quite enjoyed." He said leaning down and kissing Charlotte affectionately on the forehead
"I missed the personal tour around London when I arrived," Scott said looking at me, "Perhaps you could do the honors if you have some free time later this week."
To think I already made plans with William, well sort of. Conveniently, Richard spared me having to answer Scott.
"We're here," Richard, announced as he held open the door for us.
As we were ushered to our seats Jane threw me a look, which I knew was related to Scott's earlier offer.
Soft Jazz was filling the air, as couples were dancing around the floor. Candlelight softly lit the restaurant giving it a warm glow. I began to loosen up and looked forward to what the evening held. The waiter came by to take our drink orders and Richard ordered several appetizers.
"How are you ladies enjoying your time in London so far? Richard asked
"It's been eventful." I said thinking back to lunch. "We've played the happy tourists for the past three days visiting all the must sees, taking pictures, and generally keeping busy." I did not want to mention running into William and Charles.
"So you’re not a native Londoner?" Scott said a little disappointed
I just love his accent! "No, Jane and I are from the North of England, Hertfordshire to be exact."
"How long are you staying?" he asked
"We fly back in a little over a week, on Friday." I said
"Really, flying out of London?" Scott inquired
"Yes, at 10am."
"Well I'm flying back on Friday as well, to the States, at 11am, perhaps we could share some coffee before our flights."
"Sure, I don't see why not," Careful Lizzy, I thought, this is a slippery slope. Well at least he wasn't a waiter, mmmm, and much better looking too!
"Great!" he said smiling radiantly.
The appetizers were brought filling the air with a delicious smell, while the conversation turned to the project Richard, John, and Scott were working on.
"Is the problem more with the design or the hardware?" I asked
"You sound like you know your way around web design." John said
"Lizzy is one of England's best when it comes to design." Jane happily plugged
"I don't know if I would go that far. I've been in graphic design since 94' when I graduated college. I really enjoy it."
Scott leaned forward. "Really, well if you don't mind let me show you something." He reached for his pad and pencil and began scratching a rough design. "This is what we have in terms of layout, but it doesn't meet what..."
"There he goes." John said, "When he gets in the moment there is no stopping him, perhaps you would offer me a distraction and dance with me?" He said to Jane.
She accepted graciously although I knew her heart wouldn't be in it.
I was just as involved as Scott when the subject of design came up. I enjoy my line of work. Scott was intelligent with a passion for creativity that energized me all the more. We were in our own world talking "shop." I glanced up at Charlotte who smiled as if to congratulate herself. Scott’s voice focused my attention back to him.
"The navigation isn't mixing with the design as well as I hoped, and we lost Kenny, our lead guy, last week." Scott said
"Well have you thought of moving this section here and then try reworking this information into an auto format more like this?" I said as I drew out my ideas on his pad.
John and Jane came back from the dance floor and were seated just as dinner arrived Scott and I continued our animated conversation on design and infrastructure while I overheard Jane tell Charlotte about our surprise encounter and lunch.
"Really," Charlotte said, "Well good for you Jane." Then softly she added "But poor Darcy will have a run for his money with Scott, they seem quite preoccupied with each other."
Being single definitely has its disadvantages I thought; hoping Scott didn't hear her remark.
After dinner we all took a turn on the dance floor. Richard and Charlotte never seemed to leave the floor and John made the connection Jane was attached to this "Charles" she accidentally ran into.
Finished with our wonderful night; we walked in the cool night air, past the fountain, to the lobby of our hotel.
"I really had a wonderful night. Thank you gentleman and Char." I said trying to be neutral in my good-byes.
Scott took my hand and made a point of personally saying goodbye, "It was wonderful, and I look forward to meeting you for coffee, that is unless you have some free time come up before then.
I wasn't sure what I was feeling. "Sounds good, see you for coffee, if not sooner." Best to remain neutral. I could feel my heart pounding and only hoped it wasn’t audible. He is definitely a nice piece of eye candy
Jane and I hugged Charlotte and then made our way into the hotel.
"Richard is very nice." Jane commented, "I'm glad to see Charlotte so happy. It looks like she wasn't the only one happy tonight." She added looking to me for some confirmation.
"Really Jane. He lives a continent away and I've swore off men, remember."
"Well he did fill out that black turtleneck quite nicely and I wouldn't be so hasty to dismiss him if I were you. You know he could miss his flight...."
"Yeah right! And hop on ours toward Hertfordshire." I said rolling my eyes "Let's call it a night; I have Darcy duty tomorrow remember?"
"What do you mean duty? I thought you called him?"
Realizing my slip, "I did Jane, but right about now getting up early seems like a duty and depending on how he acts it very well could become a duty." Lame I know but I needed sleep and Jane seemed to accept my answer.
I saw the flashing light and checked the messages.
"Hi, Elizabeth? I got your message; Charles has his own plans already so I’m free and a day around London sounds good. Call me when you get up and we'll arrange for a place to meet or I can just pick you up there. Bye."
So it begins… I just remembered I forgot to ask Char for ideas on my Darcy plan. Call him when I get up? Does he remember how late that can be?
William
I awoke to the sound of a door slamming. I jumped up and looked out the bedroom door in time to see Charles stomping down the hall.
I yelled out, "Charles, was that you?"
"What Darcy? Oh, the door, yeah, sorry." And he continued to stomp away.
He was certainly not himself. I wondered what was up. I showered and dressed quickly, wanting to inquire of Charles before he left to go with Jane for the day. I found him seated in the dining room just picking at his breakfast.
"Good Morning Charles! What time are you meeting up with Jane?"
"I'm not." He said dejectedly
"What?" I almost screamed. If he doesn't go out with Jane then Elizabeth might feel she needs to cancel and spend the day with Jane. "What do you mean your not?"
"Well my sister Caroline called this morning to see what you and I have planned for the day. I told her I had plans with Jane today and she was surprised because she heard Jane was dating John somebody or other. Caroline knows him from some work he did at that charity of hers. She is seeing another guy Darcy! I'm an idiot"
I thought about Jane's reaction to Charles the other day and just knew Caroline must be wrong, "Charles, that doesn't sound like Jane, Caroline must be mistaken."
"She said she saw with her own eyes, Jane and this John guy slow dancing quite a few dances last night, enjoying what seemed to her to be a very romantic dinner and for your information Elizabeth was there with a guy all over her. In fact, Caroline said she wouldn't be surprised if Elizabeth announces her own engagement soon the way she saw it."
Elizabeth getting engaged? Panic hit my heart. No, she couldn’t be, she just left a message inviting me out with her for the day. Or…is she really planning on calling today?
I'm not about to leave it all up to her. "Charles, get dressed! You’re seeing Jane today and I'm taking Elizabeth to tour London. I won't take no for an answer."
"Darn it Darcy, Jane has moved on and for whatever reason she is just being polite spending the day with an old friend. I won't put myself through that."
"Let me ask you one question Charles, Are you willing to bet your whole future happiness on what Caroline's said or are you going to talk with Jane herself? I saw my answer in his face. "Now grab your jacket," I looked over his appearance, "Actually go upstairs and get dressed more appropriate, then grab your jacket and meet me in the car."
"I'm not sure I want to see her right now." Charles said sulking as he trudged up the staircase.
"Yes you do, just get dressed and talk to her." I thought I should arrange things with Jane. I called her up and as I suspected she was looking forward to seeing Charles. I told her he was upstairs getting dressed and that he wanted to meet her by the fountain on the plaza in about an hour. She readily agreed and then I inquired after Elizabeth.
"She's still sleeping; she had a late night last night."
"Well get her up." I said sharply, maybe there was some truth to what Caroline said. "I'll be at her hotel just after I drop Charles off."
"Sure, are you okay William?"
"Yes, it was just a late night for me too. Look, don’t bother Lizzy, just let her sleep and sorry for snapping at you." with that I hung up.
I dropped Charles off at the fountain and arranged to meet the two of them around 10pm after dinner for coffee. I hope it goes well for him. My thoughts turned to all the special plans I arranged for today. Well here it goes. Clutching the tulips I entered the lobby and took the elevator up.
"What am I doing?" I said to myself. What if Elizabeth really is seriously seeing this guy, I have no business coming between them and her happiness. I'll just go home and see if she calls. But she did flaunt that waiter’s number like she would go out with him, maybe she's not at all serious. The elevator opens and I debate whether to step out or go back down. Bugger! Why do I have to be so principled? The elevator doors begin to close and I braced my hand against them causing them to open. A few moments pass then pulling back my hand I let the doors close and the elevator go down to the lobby.
Alone in the elevator, I lean against the side closing my eyes. Her face flashes in my mind, her eyes, her smile, my life was so wonderful with her in it…now it sits empty in a vacuum. I don’t really have a choice do I? She is free to be pursued. She doesn’t have a ring on her finger yet and I fully intend to be the one to put it there. Who am I kidding? I blew it already! Something inside won’t let me give up though, not when she’s so close. I’ll win her love or die trying.
First let’s start with….a couple of cappuccinos and fresh fruit from the hotel restaurant. I remember she's definitely not a morning person. Cappuccino should help bring her around. I smiled wide at the thought of Lizzy stretching out her arms waking up. Her cute morning face... The elevator doors opened into the lobby and my smile dropped like concrete.
"Caroline?" My eyes were assaulted with the brightest color orange I've ever seen.
"Why William, what a pleasant surprise!"
"Yes, well, need to run." I half smiled as I headed off toward the hotel restaurant. Not soon enough however as Caroline wrapped her arm onto mine.
"Don't be off in such a hurry, you known I have a pinch of time right now, why don't we have some fresh croissants and coffee to start your day off?"
I'd sooner have my teeth pulled without anesthetic, "Wonderful idea for another time, I am quite busy and on a schedule so if you don't mind I'll take a rain check."
I was half hoping a future commitment to have breakfast would be enough to deter her from clutching me this morning.
"I offer my company for breakfast and you still must press on with your engagement? Well I'm sure it's very important business. I won't detain you," she leaned in closer, "I think you'll find me very understanding where business matters are concerned."
"Thanks." I mumbled cringing at her implication.
"By the way where's Charles?" she asked.
I inwardly smiled at ruining her plans to keep him from Jane, "He's out for the day. I don't expect to see him until late tonight." I said removing her arm from mine
"Where did he go? Didn't he say what his engagement was?"
I definitely didn't want her to spend the day looking for them. "He seemed very out of sorts this morning, not wanting company and said he would be gone all day. I'm not sure what he has planned." I said noticing her face visibly cheered.
"Well I wonder what has him in a funk?" she said with a smile.
That woman is unbelievable!! I shook my head, "I need to go, see you later Caroline." She called after me something about our "breakfast date" as I walked off.
I pictured myself on a "date" with her. God let me get hit by a truck before then One thought of Elizabeth changed my mind. Second thought, let Caroline get hit by the truck, just kidding. I corrected myself half-heartedly. I hardly think one truck would be enough to stop her.
I made my way to the nice restaurant located off the hotel lobby "Two Grande Cappuccinos please and a plate of fresh fruit."
"Do you want that added to your hotel bill sir?"
"No thank you." I said opening my billfold. "And can you have it arranged on a silver-serving tray; I'm bringing it up to the room. I'm trying to impress a certain lady." I said winking
"Really, well if you don't mind me asking are those tulips for her as well? We can put them in a vase on the tray for you if you'd like sir."
"Great idea! Thank you." Nice going. I congratulated myself. It was a very good idea to go back down and get more ammunition.
I was much happier entering the elevator this time, with an elegant silver-serving tray complete with the lid and the tulips all nicely arranged. My thoughts drifted to the past when I used to wake her up with soft kisses. Mmm! The elevator doors opened and this time I stepped out into the hall. Let's see room 418. I knocked, looking forward to surprising a groggy Lizzy.
Elizabeth jerked the door open, "Well come in, it will just top off my morning."
Stunned at the outburst and at her being up already, I slowly walked with the tray in hand into the hotel room. "Caroline?!!" Twice in one morning was too much for me.
"William?!!" Caroline said just as shocked.
"What are you doing here?" I asked still stunned.
"Obviously, it's not a business call." Caroline said sarcastically, "I heard Jane and Elizabeth were in town and thought I'd pay them a visit. I didn't realize we had the same plan." She glared at the silver tray and then to Elizabeth leering, "How very nice to have William bring you breakfast in bed. I would have thought you too tired after dancing the night away with that man of yours."
Elizabeth cheekily replied, "Yes, well I seem to have them eating out of my hand don't I?" she said tossing Caroline an eat-your-heart-out-look. "Now if you'll excuse me Caroline." and pulled the door open waiting for her to exit. God I love that girl!!
As Caroline walked past me she shot me a look, "I see what your business appointment was." She looked back at Elizabeth then me, "How nice. Don't forget our breakfast date and I like my coffee black."
With that she strolled out the door…hopefully toward a Mac truck.
I looked at Elizabeth still standing with the door open, looking at me, arched brow and all. "You were supposed to call first or I was supposed to call you or something like that."
"Life doesn't work out the way you plan Elizabeth, and sometimes its better that way." I said as I walked past Lizzy right out the door. I balanced the tray on one hand and pulled the door shut behind me, leaving her in the room by herself. I loved the stunned look on her face! I smiled to myself standing alone in the hall outside her door. I'll give her a few seconds and let the shock sink in. Then I knocked gently.
"Who is it?"
Like she doesn’t know. "Room service." I replied
Posted on Thursday, 14 August 2003, at
"I thought I'd try this again, without Caroline around." I said brushing past her into the room. "Now hop back into bed. It won't be breakfast in bed if you don't."
"A new technique to get me to bed?” she said arching her eyebrow and moving toward me.
"Nothing improper madam I assure you, just refreshments to get you started on the best day you will ever have in London."
"Oh is that a fact?" She did climb into bed and I pulled her sheets up locking my eyes with hers. I could feel her affected by my closeness. Smiling I pulled back. I've only just begun Miss Bennet.
"Fresh fruit" I said as I uncovered the tray that I placed before her, "And a Grande Cappuccino to ensure a quick start to the morning. I know how much you enjoy early mornings."
I moved to sit on the edge of the bed enjoying the closeness and her discomfort. Nice to know the chemistry between us is still alive and well."So how are you this morning?"
"Better now that Caroline is gone." She replied.
"I was surprised to see her in the lobby and even more in your room."
"Yes, well, she really wanted to make sure Jane was kept busy if you get my drift." Lizzy gently bit into the strawberry savoring the sweet juices, whatever words she just said went completely out of my head. All I could think on was how I would very much like to savor that strawberry.
"Pardon?" Concentrate man!
"I said she was probably trying to deter Jane from getting together with Charles, something you should be familiar with."
Ouch! " I admit I read the signals all wrong when it came to Jane, but as it stands right now she is out with Charles for the whole day. If Caroline had her way Charles would still be home sulking."
"What do you mean?" Lizzy inquired
"Caroline spoke with Charles on the phone this morning and mentioned she witnessed Jane dancing the night away with another guy, apparently quite seriously." I decided not to mention Lizzy dancing the night away as well. "So Charles figured Jane moved on and was only accepting his invitation to spend the day together out of politeness."
"You got to be kidding me!"
"Caroline is amazing isn't she?" even I was amazed at the length she would go. "I told Charles he IS taking Jane out and can talk to her directly to work it out. So practically throwing him upstairs to get dressed I called Jane and told her he would meet her by the fountain. After I dropped him off I came by here. We are meeting up with them for dessert and coffee around 9pm. If that's ok."
"Um, yea, sure." She looked confused
I thought I'd let it all sink in as I sat silently drinking my Cappuccino.
After several minutes she added, "We did go out dancing last night. We met up with Charlotte Lucas, you remember she moved to London after receiving a job promotion from your Aunt."
"Oh yes, how is she?" holding on to hope that there wasn't any truth to what Caroline said.
"She's fine, great actually. I finally met your cousin, Richard, as well. Nice guy, nothing like you.”
Ouch!
“I didn’t mean that the way it came out, sorry. I meant he’s very different from you.”
“Very.” I waited to hear more.
“I think she’s a bit taken with Richard, he also seemed…very attentive."
"Really? I've only spoken to him once over these few months. I really should stay in touch more often." I said chiding myself.
"Yes, well, Richard came from work and brought a couple of business associates with to join us for dinner. I guess Charlotte was trying her hand at cheering Jane up. It was a great place with dinner and dancing so we did cut a rug, but since Jane saw Charles earlier her heart wasn't into seeing someone new. She was just being polite to Richard's friend."
"And you?" I couldn't resist asking.
"And me what?"
"Dancing the night away, were you just being polite?"
She rose from the bed, "I'm jumping in the shower, getting dressed and I'll be ready in 20 minutes. That's all you need to know." She threw me a smile as she closed the bathroom door.
"Wicked girl!" I called through the bathroom door. "That's the Lizzy I adore, evasive to the last!"
"I'm all astonishment you approve!" she sarcastically shot back
This is going quite well. Her humor is showing which is a good sign. I can tell she’s not comfortable around me yet, too much on her guard, but then who can fault that. I can’t believe I was that stupid. Did I really say those things to her?
Charles is going to Hong Kong and the fact he’s leaving your sister to do it, is not my business. He doesn’t exist to provide your sister with comfort and if you have a problem with my business decisions…”
“This is not a business decision, it’s personal. I don’t know why you are driving this wedge between them at this time except to pull them apart.” She said, piercing me with her eyes. I could see recognition dawn on her features. She knows now, “Oh my god! That’s it. You are trying to pull them apart?...Why?...What are you doing this for?”
I would not answer to her, steeling myself I replied calmly, ”I have my reasons and do not need to justify them to you. You need to learn in being with me there are some things I do with or without explanation. I expect you to understand that, especially when it comes to business. Now can we just forget about this and move on?” I was tired of arguing over this subject every time we got together. I reached my hand out for her to come join me and sit by my side...
She moved on all right and I examined everything I had been taught about women realizing it had come from men with shallow, society wives looking for a rich husband. Naturally what their wives put up with they did for the pocketbook and I knew that would never hold sway with Elizabeth, yet I acted just like them. She sure put me in my place…I smiled recalling it.
“I need to learn? Did I hear right? I need to learn? Well get ready for school, William because you’re going to get one hell of a lesson. I’m not some trophy wife with invisible duct tape on my mouth. I’ve ignored little things here and there thinking you’ll grow out of this Neanderthal behavior, but to think that’s the real you! Ha! You’re stuck with yourself, but Thank God I have a choice…Move on? That’s exactly what I’m going to do and don’t even think about following unless you want a warrant taken out on you’re a**.”
The sound of the water beating down in the shower slowing registered in my ears once again. I don’t deserve it but I have a second chance. She’s on her guard but she’s with me. I settled myself in a chair and picked up the book lying on the nightstand. London-Off the beaten path. By Van Bromsten. I noticed pages folded and text highlighted. So this is what Lizzy had in mind...
The bathroom door opened a crack and I quickly hid the book. Poking her head out she asked, "Did you really do that?"
"What?" I answered
"Get Charles and Jane together today?"
I looked down at the carpet then back up to catch her reaction to my words, "It's the least I can do. They are so obviously meant to be together." I stared intently meeting her eyes, "You don't find that everyday you know."
She pulled her head back in and closed the door.
Oh Elizabeth, give me an inch and I will see to it, you’ll want to make it a mile.
After a few more minutes she came out of the bathroom. Her hair a mass of wet curls with the front pinned up in a jeweled bobby pin. Her pink tee shirt and black jeans were going to prove a definite distraction today. I still didn’t get my answer on her night of dancing, but since she just met the guy, I knew it wasn’t as serious as Caroline stated it. Strange how jealousy is. I debated asking her about what she thought of Richard’s friend, but decided since I’m the one with her..."
"I'm ready if you are William."
She called me William, hmmm, definitely progress.
Elizabeth
"London awaits." William said as he held open the car door for me.
I was beginning to wonder if spending a whole day this close to William Darcy was a good idea. "Well what did you have in mind for today?" I asked.
"I thought I'd take you to see Big Ben, Parliament, and Buckingham Palace since that is what most people like to see when they visit London."
I didn't say anything; he couldn't have planned a more boring day if he tried. I didn't want to go where throngs of tourists would be.
"Are you ready Lizzy? Pull out your camera." He said as we drove closer to London circle.
"What do you mean pull out my camera? We aren't even there yet."
"Oh but we are, just pull out your camera and get it ready." He insisted.
"Fine." I pulled it out.
"Are you ready? There's Big Ben, over there, see? Hurry snap a picture."
"What?"
"Just snap a picture Lizzy, now!"
I did as he asked and snapped a shot of Big Ben with some trees and cars in front.
"Care to explain why you want me to take a picture of Big Ben from the car?"
"There's Parliament, your next shot, hurry snap it."
"You are crazy William Darcy." But I snapped a picture of the Parliament building anyways.
"Great! Right on schedule."
"Schedule for what?"
"For Buckingham Palace, you wouldn't want to miss the changing of the guards would you?"
Oh so that was it, "Yea, I've waited my whole life to see the changing of the guards." I said less then thrilled.
"Here we are, just about there, get ready Lizzy. I'm afraid you'll have a few other people in this picture not just the guards. Ready to take your shot?"
"What are you talking about? Aren't we going to get out of the car or are we on a drive by view of London? Really William." I said amazed at his idea of "seeing" London.
"Here's your chance, take it."
"I'm not taking another picture from the car." I said defiantly.
"Then give it to me." He snatched my camera, slowed and took a shot. "It's a better shot from my side anyways." He said smiling at me handing back my camera.
"Well this will be the most interesting day I've ever had in London." I said not knowing how true it would prove to be.
I broke the few minutes of silence, "So where to now? A drive through restaurant perhaps?"
"Not quite, but we are close to what I have in mind." He said.
We drove about 15 minutes more before pulling up to a charming storefront. "So you'll let me get out of the car this time?"
"Yes, and so much more." He said as he opened my door and held his hand out for me. When I placed my hand in his he brought it to his lips kissing it ever so gently locking his eyes with mine. My mind was screaming, what is he doing kissing my hand!! Yank it back! But my body was liquid making it impossible to do anything but look at him in shock.
"I think you'll like this." He said, now releasing my hand, "I thought we would start our day here, now that we got all the touristy things out of the way. Mr. Jack lives here, an old friend of my father's. I think you'll like him."
My mind was still on the kiss as William rang the bell and a short, but distinguished gray haired man answered.
"Well come in, come in. It's always good to see you."
"Mr. Jack this is my friend, Elizabeth Bennett."
"Nice to meet you miss." He had a certain spark in his eye. I decided instantly I liked him.
"Elizabeth, this is Mr. Jack Gardiner, or Mr. Jack as I've always called him."
"Hi, nice to meet you. This is quite a neat building your store's in." I said admiring the beauty of the Victorian era building.
"Why thanks miss, it has lots of character like me. My father bought it way back when and started the store in it. I was born and raised upstairs this place. Kinda fond of it. Well let me show you around a bit then onto my crown jewel so to speak."
"Crown jewel?"
"For the best things in London you need a personal tour guide." William said with a knowing smile placing his hand in the small of my back leading me forward.
Mr. Jack showed us some novel things around the store from when his father ran it. Some of my favorites were a key he still uses to wind up the store clock every morning. An old corset made with real ivory bone, and some petticoats with the most beautiful antique lace.
Mr. Jack held up an old ring of skeleton keys, "Ah, but these lead to my favorite thing of all."
He led us up the staircase to the second story. I expected something of an attic, cluttered, disorganized. Instead we walked into very well appointed living quarters.
"This is where I live miss. Willy here has spent quite a few days 'bout here with his father."
I threw William a humored look at the use of this "pet" name. "So tell me more about Willy's adventures here, you have my full attention."
"Mr. Jack is the only one who can get away with the use of that name." William said giving me a firm look.
"Or what?" I challenged
"You'll find out where the third skeleton key goes." He smiled
"Oooooh! Are you threatening me Mr. Darcy?" I said challenging him to carry out his threat.
He leaned in toward me. I could feel his breath on my face, "No, not at all if you like spiders and the cold."
His eyes.....I looked away and walked quickly past him. Why does he do that to me whenever he gets close? Where is that self-control of yours Lizzy? I realized I missed his closeness, laying in his arms, taking in his scent. I hope things are going well for Jane because this is killing me.
Mr. Jack sat down in a chair ahead and lit his pipe. I stopped cold in my tracks when I entered the parlor and saw what was framed on the walls.
Mr. Jack saw my stare and gaping mouth.
"Originals, they all are Miss. My father and he were good friends from way back, though the man moved around a bit and we lost touch in the later years."
"Oh William, Wow!" I was speechless. Many of these I've never seen.
"A private showing of Escher drawings. The most complete collection anywhere." He said softly
I turned to look at William and saw him watching me.
"Thank you." I whispered. Everything in me wanted to hug him, but my thoughts held me firmly back. I looked back to an Escher drawing, a portrait of a two little boys drawn in repetition.
"Take your time Elizabeth, enjoy." William said as he moved to join Mr. Jack.
"Glad you like 'em, can I get you something to drink or eat while you browse?"
"A cup of tea would be nice if it's not too much." I said.
"And what of you Willy, what would you like, some of my root beer perhaps?"
"You know me too well."
"Eye, that I do." With that he went into the kitchen, leaving William and I alone.
I spent the better part of an hour viewing his gallery, enjoying the classical music playing in the background and sipping my tea. This would definitely be the highlight of my London trip. I've long admired Escher's work and seeing so many originals and one of kind drawings was amazing. My thoughts turned toward William who was quietly conversing with Mr. Jack. This was very sweet of him, very thoughtful. I finished up and William led me outside saying our good-byes to Mr. Jack, but instead of heading to the car, he led me down the sidewalk.
"That was so incredible William!" I said looking around at the beautiful trees and buildings. "And I really like Mr. Jack. He's so unique. How did your father ever meet him? They don't seem like they would be in the same circles."
"My father brought my mother here just after they were married. They stopped in at the store and my mother noticed an Escher drawing hanging downstairs in the store. My father wanted to buy it for her, but it wasn't for sale, however Mr. Jack took a liking to them and later showed them his, then small, collection upstairs inviting them to stop in whenever they were in town. My parents often came by to chat bringing Georgiana and myself. Mr. Jack was one of the most colorful individuals from our childhood."
"Well he certainly won me over." I said
"I knew you would win him over as well." He said smiling back at me. "I thought we would take a historical walking tour through this small town, admire the architecture and history, then I have an idea for lunch. How does that sound?"
"So this is the kind of tour you had in mind? Going to the big tourist sites was just a front?"
"Well they are touristy for a reason. They really are great to see, so I figured you at least need a picture. But yes, the back roads of London, so to speak, is more what I had in mind"
“Good choice." I said feeling comfortable enough that I wrapped my arm around his while we walked arm in arm passing the old storefronts. "Mmm, I love the fall time. The cool breezes, the vibrant colors of the leaves, watching the leaves dance down to the ground. It's my favorite season." I was very relaxed and quite enjoying my day.
We ate lunch at a sidewalk café watching the people go by and just enjoying life. I forgot how nice it was to be with William. We could do nothing, say nothing and yet really have a nice time. With William life was a quiet adventure, neat places, interesting people, days filled with living life at its best. Experiencing these feelings again started to take its toll though. What about how he hurt Jane? Even if he's trying to bring them together now, I've lost the safe feeling I use to have. I lost trust. It really hurt to see him strike at Jane like that, tearing Charles away from her. It was as if he did it to me and in a way he did. Why William did you throw everything away? You had to know you would hurt me deeply by your actions.
I spoke up, "I'm ready to go whenever you are."
"Sure, I'm finished." He said sort of surprised. We walked back to the car in silence.
"Here let me." He said opening the car door.
I smiled at him trying to shake the heaviness that came over me after lunch.
"So where to next?" I said trying to break the silence that permeated our drive.
"It's a secret. The whole day is a surprise, just enjoy and let it unfold."
I leaned back in the seat and closed my eyes while listening to the light jazz CD William put it. Next thing I remembered was William's voice calling to me. "We're here Elizabeth."
I must have fallen asleep. "Where? Where are we?" I said looking around.
"I thought we'd take a stroll along the Thames River with a little surprise along the way."
We visited several shops along the Thames and enjoyed watching the boats sail past. Just like this morning, it was wonderful and relaxing being together again, yet in the background the pain of the past still pressed in on me. I began to notice the wind picked up and the temperature started to drop.
"So what is the little surprise you had in mind?" I asked.
"Just over here a bit." He said as he led me down the boardwalk and stopped under a huge Ferris wheel.
"Oh no, you’re not serious?” Seeing that he was I added, “Not that! No way!"
"Come on Lizzy where is your sense of adventure? It's the world’s largest Ferris wheel and you get a great view of London from the top."
"That thing's 50 stories high!! What if we get stuck up there?"
"I'm sure I can think of something we can do." He said with a wicked grin.
"Oh I bet!" I said, taking a step back from him.
"Two tickets please." William said to the booth attendant.
"No way William." I said pleading, knowing full well he had a way of leading me anywhere.
"I'm the tour guide remember? Now in!" He said as he used his large frame to block my escape and pushed me along into the glass-enclosed cage.
"Have I ever told you I'm not crazy about heights? I was fully aware of our bodies pressed together side by side in the small space as we rose over the Thames so I looked out to stay my nervousness. With the sun is setting, I have to admit, the view is breathtaking.
"Elizabeth." William said as he lift my chin to meet his eyes...
My heart raced, I was certain he could hear it beat.
"Hurting Jane and Charles was bad enough, but to know I hurt you..." I got up the courage to meet his eyes and saw the pain reflecting out.
He took hold of my hands, gently caressing them. “I would do great harm to anyone who ever hurt you and yet, I'm the very person who did.” he said with his eyes like melted pools of chocolate. The silence was deafening. The outside world seemed to disappear leaving just the two of us very close together in such a small space. I'm not sure how long the silence lasted but I knew I needed to say it.
"I forgive you William." I managed, not completely certain I had, but knowing I had to let go sometime. Perhaps a bit at a time.
He brought my hand to his lips and kissed it firmly. "Thank you, but I have to forgive myself and I don't want to let myself off the hook. Being with you today I can feel how much you've suffered. Before it was just anger coming at me, but now it's something else, sorrow, pain, I can see it in your eyes. It wasn't there before. I'm so sorry Elizabeth," and as if his pain was too raw he released my hands, closed his eyes and leaned back against the seat.
I didn't know quite what to say, so silence prevailed for awhile.
Feeling the need to break it I said, "It's ok William. I'll be ok. Let's just enjoy the rest of the day and forget about all that. Jane and Charles are together and probably having a great time. We wouldn't want them to out do us, would we? " I said trying to lighten it up.
He brushed an errant curl from my face, "I doubt Charles could top a private showing of one's favorite artist."
"Ok, you got him there." I said starting to laugh again. "Actually, the whole day has been great fun."
"It's not over yet." he said it with such a look that I knew if I didn't get out of this small space, I would kiss him senseless. There is nothing like an incredible hunk of a guy being completely vulnerable to make you lose your resolve. The tension was getting intense, I was certain he could feel it and I half suspected he was doing it on purpose.
I saw the ground approaching, "Well, it is a good thing this ride almost is. The views are breathtaking but I need open spaces." he didn't respond. Somehow I don't think open spaces was what he craved.
The ride made its way to a slow stop. We stepped out onto solid ground and I was never happier to feel hard earth under my feet, although the closeness we shared back in that space was special. I think it would be best to be friends for now, rebuild trust so to speak, and see if it has a chance. I don't need hormones clouding reality right now. I felt better having made some sort of decision about my changing feelings toward William.
We walked back to the car talking about what we had been up to after almost 8 months of being apart. It was pretty much unanimous; we both poured ourselves into our work.
I was a much better designer because of it though.
William started the car and we drove off. I looked at my watch, it was getting late and my stomach started to growl.
"Is Dinner next, Mr. Tour Guide?"
"It's a secret, but yes Dinner is next.” He said. Then after a moments thought he added, “You’re not one for letting things just unfold in their own time are you?"
“No, I can’t say that I am.” but perhaps…I could try.