Beginning, Next Section

Prologue

Posted on 2009-09-04

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single mother of two is always in want of a husband. Additionally understood was that if said mother was of a certain age, Prince Charming wasn't coming anytime soon. If ever. Long gone. Turned tail and ran off in search of a younger less harried maiden.

Beth stood in front of the open casket desperately clutching at her handkerchief. "I'm so glad you're not suffering anymore, Mom," she whispered close to her mother's lifeless shell. "But what am I going to do now? Who will listen to me and guide me now? It was just too soon for me, you know? I'm not mad at you, mom, just so scared. Don't really leave me, OK?"

Two little girls inched their way to their mother's side. Little Callie took her hand and patted it. "It's OK, Momma. Grandma said she'd keep an eye on us. Jeannie and me will be good for you, right?" the precious six year old face was earnestly trying to console her mother. "Is she flying with the angels now, Momma?." Her mother nodded.

"Momma," the nine year old asked, "why won't Grandma wake up now? She said she was tired, but she's sleeping too long."

"Grandma is in Heaven now, honey. She's watching over us like she said she would, remember?"

"Oh. Yes, she said that she would be finding all the butterflies for me. She said she'd send them to me. Do you think one is outside now for me?"

"If Grandma promised you butterflies, I bet you'll find them forever, honey."

Chapter 1

"Here we are, girls, Fountain City, Bryan OH!"

"Finally! Mommy why does it take so long to get here?"

"Well, it just does. We live a little over three hours away, but we're here now, right?" Beth Thomas was just as weary as her daughters, but it was not in her nature to let them know that. As she turned down the familiar street to the house belonging to her room mate from college and her husband, she couldn't help but be a little shocked to be attending their oldest son's graduation. How did he grow up so fast? How did she get this old so quickly? Yuck, let's just file that thought away under "Don't go there".

Pulling up the tree lined driveway of the historic brick home, Beth again marveled at how Marie and Edward and worked so hard and come so far in their lives to be able to afford such a home. "We were all so poor back then," she thought. Laughing to herself she could still taste the cheap ramein noodles that she swore to never eat again after graduation.

"OK, now, remember the rules. Lots of people will be here. It's not like when we come to visit just ourselves. Justin and Rachel will have friends here and there will be lots of other people, too. So, stay by me. No running in the house. We'll get to the food in a minute, but not right when we walk in the door. Stay out of people's faces. Don't beg for food. You can't go upstairs or use the computer, or…."

"Momma!" Callie yelled, "We get it! We'll be good, right Jeannie?"

Jeannie wasn't listening, she was trying to get out the childproof door, not caring a thing about the rules that her mother always went through wherever they went. Jeannie had her own agenda in her own world. Today was a good day so far. Momma had said there would be cake. That was Jeannie's focus for the over three hour drive. She asked her momma about it at least a dozen times.

"Jeannie," Beth said, "you heard me, right" Silence. "Jeannie?" Silence. "Jeannie?"

"What?!" the ten year old screamed. "It's time for the cake now. Let me out of the car!"

Beth sighed. Silently praying that this would be a good visit and that Jeannie would somehow be more controlled than her multiple initials worth of issues usually allowed, she answered, "I'm coming to get you out, Jeannie, but I need you to promise that you will obey the rules so that we can have fun today." Before sliding out the van, she checked the mirror that always indicated the slight dark circles under her eyes no matter how much concealer she used. Her long brown hair was back in its traditional easy to maintain French braid. For once, she did bother to put on some make up to highlight her chestnut eyes that danced when she laughed but so often still held a hint of sorrow. Looking down at her crumpled bright pink tunic and matching capris, she sighed. Well, what am I supposed to look like after three hours in the car?

"Yes, Momma" Jeannie answered to remind Beth to get a move on and get her out of the car. Beth looked at her oldest daughter and shook her head. On first glance, Jeannie looked like any other ten year old. She had beautiful expressive green eyes that sparked with gold, especially when she was angry. Her curly auburn hair bounced as she walked and her freckled skin always lead to comments about how fair she was. On second glance, Jeannie usually did not resemble anyone in the scrutinizer's acquaintance. Diagnosed with mental retardation and a host of other psychological issues, these came to light whenever Jeannie was angry, overly stimulated or tired. In other words, they came out quite often.

Shaking her head again as if to clear it away from those dark thoughts, Beth walked around the van and opened the door for her little firecracker. Simultaneously, her younger daughter, Callie, was repeating the list of expectations to prove to her momma that she was listening. Seven going on fifteen, Callie was the polar opposite of her sister. Dark complected with straight as a pin golden hair and big blue eyes, she learned quite early to keep the peace and to look out for her older sister so that things went as smoothly as possible. Beth worried constantly that Callie was growing up too quickly and that she took too much responsibility for her sister, but she was a help to her momma in so many ways.

Out the girls tumbled and the three made their way to the wrap around porch that was alive with people, music, and much to Jeannie's delight, balloons. "Oh, momma, look at all the balloons. Can I have one? Can I have one?"

Before Beth could even answer, Jeannie had flown up the steps and then tripped onto the porch. Letting out a wail of anguish as yet another bruise would be forming on her slim legs. Of course, everyone stopped their conversation and several came to Jeannie's side. Hurrying to the steps, Beth told everyone not to worry and then shushed Jeannie when she determined with her usual "no blood, no harm, no foul" policy that her oldest would, indeed live. "Let's go into the house, honey." Beth said quietly. "We need to see Justin and give him our card." Jeannie wasn't having it. That balloon was hers and she was going to reach up and get it. "Not now, Jeannie. Let it go and let's go inside." Another wail of agony. " Now, Jeannie. In the house."

Beth didn't have to look up to know that people were staring. So much for our grand entrance and calm afternoon, she thought. As she started to lead the crying Jeannie and sighing Callie into the house, Marie rescued her just in time. "I thought I heard your voice!" She exclaimed. "We've been waiting for you Jeannie. Justin wasn't going to cut his cake until you arrived. You better get in there and help him out. You know that he will eat all the icing if you don't stop him."

How does she do that? Beth thought. Marie always knew just what to say to distract Jeannie or to diffuse situations. She marveled at her friend and her ease with her difficult daughter. They were both teachers, but Marie had a special gift with special children. They were always close since their college days, but since Beth had adopted Jeannie and then Callie, Marie's experience and advice kept Beth from despair many days. Beth had often considered moving north to live closer to Marie, but good teaching jobs were difficult to find, and until last year, Beth's mom was living close by and was such a help to her with the girls, she couldn't dream of moving away from her and taking the grand daughters she had so longed for so many years.

Stepping inside the Victorian house with its glorious parlor alive with people, Beth was shaken back into the world of today. Everywhere she looked, there were family and friends of Ed and Marie's that had also become part of Beth's life. They were hugging the girls and talking about how much they'd grown as they gave sympathetic pats on the head to Jeannie and tousled Callie's hair. In the corner stood the graduate patiently explaining how to cut the cake to Jeannie as his friends were hovered around the table laughing and cutting jokes. Jeannie loved the attention while Callie was eyeing the lemonade fountain and asking Rachel just how did that thing work.

Seeing that for the moment things were under control, Beth let herself relax to give and receive many hugs and handshakes. "You look great, Lizzybeth," Ed teased as he always did. He was the brother Beth never had and took great delight in embarrassing her with their crazy college stories and her continued run ins with interesting people and colleagues. He was the only one allowed to call her Lizzybeth. Ever.

"No I don't. I look like a crazy single mom who just spent half a day in a van." she laughed. "Please don't let me get anywhere a mirror. The horror alone will be too much." She tried to smooth down the errant curls she knew had escaped her long French braid.

"Whatever," Ed returned, "I guess I'm just used to seeing you haggled over one thing or another." He teased, "Let me get you something to drink and then I think there's some people here you don't know." He sauntered over to the lemonade fountain, looked back at her and frowned, then with a smirk, thrust his hand into the tub of iced beer and pulled out a bottle. "To the harried single mom who can't control her children!" He raised the bottle with a laugh.

"Thanks so much for the vote of confidence." Beth quickly scanned the room to try to figure out just who was there that she didn't know, when her eyes met with another set looking intently at her. Who the heck is that?

Leaning against the fireplace mantel stood one of the tallest men Beth had ever recalled seeing outside of a basketball court. Dressed rather formally in black dress pants and a white button down, he looked out of the place among all the khakis and shorts that the other men were wearing. Trying to catalogue who was there, Beth knew this man wasn't a relative or any friend she had previously met. Maybe he was one of Justin's teachers or maybe he was their priest. If that was the case, too darn bad as he was quite good looking in that "I'm too sexy for this party" kind of way. As they locked eyes, he straightened up and quickly erased the frown that was on his rather tanned face. It was obvious he was frowning at her.

"I don't believe we've met." Beth boldly said first extending her hand and daring him to keep eye contact.

"Oh, yeah. That's just who I was going to introduce you to, Lizzybeth. Will Stevens, this is Lizzybeth Thomas."

"Beth Thomas" she quickly corrected the mischievously grinning Edward still holding out her hand.

As if coming out of a trance, Will Stevens blinked a couple of times and then quickly regained himself and shook her hand. "Pleasure to meet you, Miss Thomas."

Ouch. It was so obviously not a pleasure and who uses such formal language at a graduation party .Readying herself for a tart reply, Beth's mouth was opened just as the familiar shriek sounded, "Justin! I want more cake now! Momma, make Justin give me more cake!"

"Excuse me" was all she said as she left to deal with Jeannie before this would be known as the Great Cake Crisis. Once again knowing that she and her daughter were the center of attention, Beth tried to reason with Jeannie that one piece was enough and maybe she should have some fruit or hey, look at the lemonade fountain. No go. Stomping her feet on the beautiful parquet floor, Jeannie was unrelenting and was loudly proclaiming just how mean her mother truly was. Justin's friends stood there mouths agape when Marie came to the rescue again. "Jeannie….Jeannie….no crying in our house, remember. This is a special house where only happy tears are allowed. Let's go out to the front yard. SpongeBob is out there waiting for you to play with him. He's got the special ball you like to throw."

And just like that, Jeannie was out the door and there was peace once again. Beth could hear her squeals of delight as she was obviously being chased and licked by SpongeBob the yellow Labrador. With a sigh and a shrug of her shoulders she looked sheepishly up at Ed who just smiled and said, "Drink your beer, Lizzybeth. If anyone ever needed one, it's you. Now where did Will go?" He disappeared out to the porch as well.

As much as Beth wanted to just sit down with that cold beer, she knew she had better get outside to monitor the girls. Walking out to the porch she saw Callie standing with one of Marie's nieces laughing and dancing about as little girls usually do. Check. She could hear Jeannie's continued squeals but had not yet zeroed in on her when she heard Ed and the tall dark and judgmental stranger.

"There you are Will. I didn't really get to fully introduce you to Beth…."

"No need to, Ed. I saw all I needed to in less than five minutes."

"Oh, well, she's a great friend of ours. We all went to school together and…"

"And she's the poster child for why single mom's kids have so many problems."

"Hey, there Will, there's more to Beth's situation than you could know. I would think that you of all people could understand raising kids alone…."

"I didn't choose to, it was forced upon me. Besides, Seth and Georgie didn't run around like wild banshees….

Before Beth could even respond to what she was hearing; and she had quite a bit she was willing to respond to, Jeannie was chasing a butterfly and getting dangerously close to the street. "Jeannie! Jeannie! Jeannie Thomas, stop this instant! Do you hear me! Stop!"

"But Momma, it's one of grandma's butterflies. I have to give it a kiss." At least she skidded to a stop at the sidewalk her attention diverted for a moment. "Aw, Momma, now it's flown away. That wasn't nice!"

Beth was walking out to the yard to finish the conversation and temporarily forgot the comments she had overheard. After a short negotiation with Jeannie, the child skipped off to find SpongeBob again, so Beth determinedly strode back up to the porch. The two men were still talking, but Beth didn't stop to hear what was being said at that point. "Mr. Stevens," two can play that game, "I'm sorry I had to run off before. As you probably figured out by now, my girls are quite active and curious as most young people can be…"

"LB", Ed cut her off, "you don't have to say…"

"Oh, no, I think I do, Ed."

"No, really you don't." Will Stevens who was blushing slightly said quickly. "Please excuse me. I have another party to attend. I'll come 'round for Seth and Georgie in about two hours, Ed." And with that, he hurried off the porch and into his F150.

"I've always hated Fords." Beth said dryly. Ed chuckled and began to speak. "Forget it, Ed. I don't believe I've ever met such an arrogant judgmental person in my life. Good Lord, is he actually a friend of yours?"

"Well, I wouldn't say "friend" so much, but Justin and Rachel are great friends with his sister and nephew, so we're thrown into each other's company a lot. As a matter of fact…"

"Well, I'm sorry for your sake. At least I won't have to see him again. I'm stressed as it is without having to prove my parenting skills to him or anyone else."

"But that's what I was trying to do for you."

"You don't have to defend me to anyone, Ed. It happens all the time. You know that."

"Did Children's Services call you again? You've got to be kidding me!"

"Yeah, this time it was someone at Kroger's who saw me pulling her to the car and then saw all the bruises, so they took my license plate number. They were out the next morning before we left for the day. I've learned to just be matter of fact about it all. I handed her my "Packet of Jeannie" and then let her talk to both girls. Callie told her that Jeannie was fighting with me over wanting to buy candy and that we had to leave the store because she was yelling so much and biting herself so that people were staring. Jeannie showed her the marks herself and said that I was a mean Mommy, but that she bit herself. And that took care of complaint number four for this year so far." By this time, Marie had joined them and was nodding her head sympathetically. "Anyway, that's enough of that. Your house looks fantastic as always and the food is great."

"It oughta be. Cost me enough." Marie had joined them by this time and punched his arm and countered, "Well, which do you prefer, a crazy wife running around like Martha Stewart or a calm and gentle hostess enjoying herself which, in turn, allows you to enjoy yourself?"

"Point taken."

"I'd say game. Set. Match." laughed Beth. Will Stevens was forgotten as they stood watching their respective children each wondering where the time goes and how in the world did they get to this point already.

Beth was able to relax for the rest of the afternoon. The kids played and ran around the yard only occasionally asking for food or drink. Rachel and her friends entertained Jeannie by swinging her on an old tire swing and playing tag while Callie kept close watch on her and on where Beth was at all times. She enjoyed the swing as well and insisted she wasn't scared at all by how high they pushed her. Beth laughed at her little girlie girl and marveled at how well children, no matter what their ages, eventually fall into a rhythm that works for them. If only adults could be that way. If only I could be that way.

I must be the biggest idiot in Williams County!" roared Fitzwilliam Darcy Stevens. "No, wait, in the entire state of Ohio. Maybe the whole blasted country. Me and my big mouth!" He slammed the door on his F150 and pulled out of the driveway as quickly as he could remembering to look for Jeannie to make sure she was nowhere near.

Just then his cell phone rang. "What?!" He screamed into it as he hit the speaker button.

"Good grief! Why am I bothering worrying about going back to Iraq when my worst enemy just answered his phone?"

"Sorry, Richard. It seems all I'm doing today is getting myself in trouble with my big mouth."

"Really. So unlike you to be temperamental…."

"Ha ha. Are you still on the road or at the farm?"

"Almost home. Can't wait to see Seth's face. I told him there was no way I could make the graduation. Too many new recruits to drill and all. He bought it."

"You're the devil sometimes Rich, you know."

"None of you would know what to do with me if I wasn't. So who did you annoy this time?" His cousin sounded just a bit too eager to hear of Will's troubles, so he thought better of sharing at this moment.

"Never mind. Just unpack and relax. I'll swing out to get you before heading back to pick up the kids. I won't be that far away. Going to another party out at the Simpson's place."

"Oh yes, duty calls us all, does it not? So many social engagements, so little time for Will Stevens."

"Shut up. I would say I'm glad you're home, but you'll just use that against me later."

"Too true. About an hour then?"

"Yes." Will clicked the phone and smiled. Cousin Richard home for awhile from his war games and the threat of re deployment. Maybe the day could be salvaged after all.

His mind raced back to the party he just left. Everything was going just fine until that bright pink whirlwind blew through it. I'm reasonably intelligent. Why didn't I see the signs in that little girl? What she did wasn't all that bad. Why was I so rude to that woman? Because the guards came up the minute you heard the words "single mom", that's why.

Will sighed and ran his fingers through his recently cut light brown hair. He had built in radar to warn him of desperate single women, yet she didn't seem all that desperate, not toward him anyway. Maybe desperate for another pair of hands, maybe a pair of hands to hold her or…Whoa there, man! Where did that come from? That kind of thinking leads to nothing but trouble.

He turned down the country road leading to the Simpsons. Trying to get to all these graduation parties was a pain, but necessary as a member of the Board of Education. He was so happy that next year would be his last. The kids would be out of school and he could focus on other things, like women in bright pink capris. "No way, man!" he said out loud as he swung up the paved road toward another group of happy people.

Happy that he had managed thirty minutes without insulting anyone or becoming the victim of another set up with somebody's aunt or sister or grandma for that matter, Will jumped in the truck and started the trek home to pick up Richard. It will be so great to have all of us together, even if it's just for a few days.

The dinner party tonight was already planned. Will just had to show up with Seth as the guest of honor with Georgie and Richard in tow. Next year it would be Georgie's turn. The last of us all. Mom and Dad would have been so proud. And tired. And probably broke. Will laughed at that thought then sobered again when thinking of his parents and the rest of his family.

Fourteen years had gone by since that day. His entire life changed in a matter of minutes.

Home from graduate school for the weekend, Will offered to stay behind until Georgiana woke up from her nap as the rest of the family was heading to Lydia's recital. He remembered watching them all clamor into the station wagon: His father, good natured as always, just waiting for the troop to get settled. His mother, cruise director as she liked to call herself, was herding all his siblings to their proper places. The road looked icy, but manageable after a typical winter storm blew through earlier that afternoon. Lyddi was already in her tutu ordering everyone, as only a six year old could, to not mess up her costume. Catherine, as only an eight year old could, threatened to just touch her once. Twelve year old Charles begged to stay home with his big brother, but his father said he needed the male support. Lastly, Elizabeth, the sister closest in age and affection to Will, turned to him and shrugged, her index finger going around her head in the universal symbol for crazy and scrambled her seventeen year old body into the back.

The station wagon pulled away, fishtailing slightly up the drive. Will remembered then feeling like this was all just a bit much to watch a ridiculous dance recital. But the Steven's always did things as a family, Period. He could see his aunt and uncle's car pulling in behind them as they all headed into town. Richard had just finished boot camp and was awaiting his orders at Fort Bragg, His only sibling, the newly adopted Seth, was traveling to the recital as well.

Georgiana had just awakened and Will was putting her coat on when he heard the sirens. Lots of sirens. He remembered thinking that something big must have happened and selfishly hoping whatever it was wasn't going to make him late to get to the recital.

The next hours and days could only be described as a nightmare come to pass. As Will drove carefully up to the where the policeman was directing traffic, his stomach lurched forward and he heard himself scream. And fourteen years later, he still screamed silently fighting the tears as he remembered it all.

Shaking his head, he turned into the road to his own home to see Richard come bounding out of house yelling some crazy greeting to his all too serious cousin.

The rest of the afternoon flew by for Beth. Her face actually hurt from laughing so much as Marie, Ed and their children shared stories of Justin as a boy and other anecdotes of family history. Family and friends began to take their leave so that soon only Beth and the Stevens teens were the only non family members left. With so many people surrounding her who knew at least a little if not all of her story and that of her girls, Beth relaxed as many eyes and ears were watching out for them all.

Tired from running around, both of the girls were watching a video in the den, so no immediate threat loomed over the gathering. Suddenly, Georgiana Stevens slid next to Beth shyly beginning to talk. "Your girls are beautiful Ms Thomas."

"Please call me Beth."

"Do you ever go by "Elizabeth? I hardly every go by "Georgiana, so I understand the nickname thing."

"I bet you…wait a minute. Your name is Georgiana? What's Will's full name?" Beth started getting a little excited.

"He'd kill me if I told you, but it's Fitzwilliam. Fitzwilliam Darcy Stevens."

"Oh, no. Just like me. My full name is Elizabeth Jane. Do you have any other siblings?" Beth couldn't believe the coincidence. Both women were nervously laughing.

"What's so funny?" demanded Justin and Ed in unison, cutting off Georgie's answer.

"I think Georgie and I just discovered that our mothers loved the same book."

"What do you mean?" asked Justin when suddenly his father and mother joined in the laughter.

"Pride and Prejudice you goofball," Georgie answered. "Surely you've heard of it?"

"Oh, man," growled Seth" here we go"

"Wait. I've seen the movie. Didn't you bring it up with you once Beth?" Obviously, it left no big impression upon Justin.

"Yes I did. It just happens to also be my favorite. I will drool over Mr. Darcy for the rest of my life."

"Two dimensional characters in a book cannot give much comfort I'm afraid." Every head in the room turned as Will and Richard had just let themselves in when no one saw them standing at the door.

Beth was about to comment to the effect that at least Mr. Darcy saw the error of his ways, but Seth and Georgie were absolutely screaming and clamoring to reach the other exceedingly tall man next to Will. "Richard!" they cried in unison.

"In the flesh as they say. I got you good didn't I little brother." Richard was clapping Justin on the back while Georgie threw herself at him and caught him a bit off balance.

"Sorry for our rude entry, but Richard was so anxious to see these two, I couldn't keep him outside waiting." Will was talking to the room, but his eyes had landed on Beth. He had hoped his comment about Darcy was taken as a joke, but from the frown on Beth's face, he feared once again to have blundered.

"No worries," Ed laughed lightly," Welcome home Lt. Colonel Stevens."

"Ah, way too formal for that. I'm on leave. Just plain old Rich for me." Richard was staring at Will who was staring at Beth who was staring at…her foot. Richard nudged Will who gave a start and said, "Miss Thomas please allow me to introduce my cousin Richard. He and Seth are brothers and while Richard is away, Seth stays with Georgie and me."

"I see." Not really. "It is a pleasure to meet you," Beth added with extra emphasis on "you". "Are you just back from Iraq?"

"No. I've been in the states for several months. I'm at Fort Bragg overseeing training and all. This is just a short leave, but I plan on being home again later this summer." Richard was charmed by this woman sitting there in her bright pink glory. Note to self, he thought, get the details on this one from Georgie.

Beth could tell instantly that Richard Stevens got all the good humor and easy disposition genes between the two cousins. Mr. "I'm staring, but that doesn't mean I'm rude" deigned to speak to her again. "Miss Thomas, please plan on attending out dinner tonight. You and your daughters are quite welcome to come."

"Oh yes," said Georgie, "we've just begun to laugh about our Jane Austen connection. Right, Beth"

Will outwardly cringed. That cursed book. Never could understand what women saw in it. Never understood what possessed his mother to name her children after all of those characters. Never stopped trying to run from his name and from women who just "loved that Mr. Darcy".

"I don't think your brother finds it too funny." Beth answered.

"No. I guess he wouldn't." Georgie replied sadly. "If you only knew…" she whispered to Beth.

"Come on, you two," Richard interrupted, " you need to change and then I need to tell you all about my road trip up here, I swear, you civilians get weirder by the day. See you all later at Mason's."

Georgie gave Beth a pained look but returned a smile to her cousin. "Justin," she said turning around to the graduate. "You need to get a clue and watch that movie again. Or better yet, read the book. If more guys read that book, more women would be happier."

"Oh, Good Lord!" Will exclaimed as he rolled his eyes. "Yes, all we men need to do is to be like Mr. Darcy. Thank you for your words of wisdom Miss Seventeen year old."

"I'm just saying…." And with that, the Stevens family left the building.

"That's a chick flick and I don't do chick flicks." Justin stated emphatically.

"Oh, but you'd watch it for Georgie, wouldn't you." Rachel teased.

Beth's ears perked up at that. "So, Justin. Got anything you need to tell your good friend Beth? I'm just dying to live vicariously through someone's love life."

A pillow came from his general area and mayhem broke out before sensible Marie cautioned of the lemonade fountain. But not before Justin was doggy piled. Even by SpongeBob.

When Beth and girls stayed at Marie's, they usually slept in the carriage house next to the main house. Marie had plans to someday turn her house into a Bed and Breakfast and utilize the carriage house for small parties. Sleeping out there gave the girls a place to crash and also a quiet space if Jennie needed to calm down when over stimulated. There wasn't a lot of privacy there, as it was just one big room with a kitchenette on one side and then the bathroom on the other.

Beth was frantically going through her suitcase trying to figure out what to wear to this dinner party. Who threw dinner parties for high school graduates for Pete's sake? She had planned on just a family dinner tonight and then church tomorrow, so she really only packed one skirt outfit and another capris set. Hmmm. Absolutely nothing to go to a place like Mason's. I don't want to be on display again tonight. Maybe I'll just tell Marie I'm too tired and will just stay in with the girls. We can walk over to the park…

"Beth…." Marie called outside the door. "I know you're thinking of tanking tonight. I've got something here to change your mind."

"Oh, you drive me crazy. Stop knowing me so well! Come on in."

Marie entered carrying the stereotypical little black dress. Only this one had a rather daring neckline and was a little shorter than Beth would choose for herself. She and Marie were about the same dress size, but Marie was a good two inches shorter than Beth's five foot six inch frame. "Ed says I can't wear this out anymore because I embarrass the kids by being too hot." Her eyes were dancing with laughter.

"Why is that so funny? I guess teenagers can't handle a hot mom?'

"It's enough for me that Ed still thinks I'm hot. I embarrass the kids all the time, but I did buy a new dress for tonight because I had the excuse at hand. I didn't want to tell you about the party because I was afraid that you would bale on it. Come on, Beth, please come. Ed's sister said that she would come over and watch the girls so that you could really have a night out. She's bring Natalie over, too, so they should have fun. When was the last time you went out?"

"Well, last month I had dinner with Sue, remember her. My friends watched the girls so I could go. We went to…."

"No, I mean "out" as in got all dressed up and maybe even talked to a man who wasn't the waiter or the guy who was taking the tickets."

"Marie…"

"No, don't "Marie" me. When?"

I've had Jeannie for eight years now, so eight years would be the answer."

"Oh my…you've got to be…it's EIGHT years..." Marie couldn't even find the words.

"Yes, yes, YES! But it's OK, it's not like I miss it or anything. Besides, who would want to take us on now. You know that I was never really a casual dater."

"Beth, I'm so sorry. I had no idea. I just thought you chose not to share all that stuff because I'm so out of touch with dating. You mean to tell me that no one has asked you out in at least eight years?"

"That's not what I said. I've been asked out. But as soon as I start talking babysitters and special needs kid, they tend to find a reason to check their cell, or go to the restroom or crawl back under whatever rock single guys go to when confronted with too much baggage."

"Beth, I know how much you wanted to be a mom, but I didn't know that you were sacrificing yourself in the process. Does it really have to be that way?"

"It seems as though it does. Think about it, Marie. I'm running to appointments all the time. I work fulltime, just like you. I have papers to grade and lessons to plan that you and I both know don't get done during the school day. By the weekend, I just want to relax and try to do something with the girls. If it wasn't for church, I don't think I'd have any sort of life at all."

"Yeah, but last time I checked, you weren't Catholic, so I don't think you meant to become a nun."

"I'm not saying I'm happy with the "vows" I've taken, but, seriously, what man would want all that I bring?"

"He's got to be out there, Beth. Maybe you really have been hoping for Mr. Darcy too long. You have ever since I've known you. You've never really opened up to any man that I can remember except for Ed and he hardly counts." Marie was trying to lighten the mood, but Beth knew the point she was trying to make.

"I just think I deserve a little romance and someone willing to fight for me. Notice I didn't say rescue. I don't need to be rescued. I've chosen this path. But it would certainly help to have someone walking it with me."

"Hey, you two. Not the time for girl talk. We've got to get moving." Ed was banging on the door. "Beth, put on whatever she brought and get it in gear. I ordered pizza for the girls and Joan and Nat are already here and they are all ready for a Disney Princess marathon, so…."

"Ok, Ok. I'm leaving so Beth can finish up. Wear your hair down, honey."

"I can't. Don't have time to do all that. Just get some pins and tuck in the tail so it looks a little more formal. I did bring some pearls and black sandals, so I'm in luck there cause my big feet…"

"Yeah, yeah, we all know about your gigantic feet. Man I'm getting flashback to trying to go clubbing back in the day…." Ed cut in melodramatically.

"Shut up, Edward. If your wife wasn't trying to marry me off…"

"But I wasn't. I swear, Ed. No matchmaking. Just like you made me promise," Marie seemed almost panicked in her response to Ed.

:"Wait a minute. You two had a discussion about you not matchmaking." By now Beth had the dress on and her braid was pinned up in the back. She was putting on the necklace as she spun around to look Marie in the face. "Ed, get in here right now." She could hear him curse under his breath.

"Man, I told you, Marie. Now we're both busted and I wanted nothing to do with it. He's already insulted her parenting and he evidently hates Jane Austen, so that pretty much leaves him dead in the water with Lizzybeth…."

"What are you…do you mean that you two were thinking of fixing me up with that arrogant "Pleasure to meet you, Miss Thomas" she bowed low and imitated Will quite well she thought.

"Think about it, Beth. You're Elizabeth. He's Fitzwilliam. I mean it's fate; it's karma, it's ….

"So not going to happen," Beth butted in.

"See, told ya," teased Ed. "Now can we please go. The kids already left because they were picking up Todd down the street and I'm sure they want to stay later than us old fogeys will."

Marie was pouting with her arms across her chest. "You're not even going to give him a chance. You have no idea what kind of man he is…"

"Oh, I think I got a pretty good picture this afternoon. But, in deference to you, my friends, I will attempt to have an open mind tonight and tomorrow if I see him at the graduation. OK?"

"OK. Ladies I mean it, the chariot is out of here whether you're in it or not."

Chapter 2 What a Good Power Ballad Can Do

Posted on 2009-09-09

The drive to Mason's was relatively short and filled with much teasing over the choice of clothes of the siblings and just who they would sit next and to and if there would be dancing. It was obvious to Beth that Justin did like Georgiana, but didn't want to admit to it. She was also beginning to surmise that Rachel had a crush on Seth, but Beth wasn't sure the Rachel even realized her feelings. Young love…

Mason's was the nicest restaurant in Bryan and it was apparently closed this evening for this special event. Geeze, they really must be rich. The place was tastefully decorated and there were pictures of the graduate hung about the room. Beth later learned that this was Georgiana's doing to tease her cousin just a bit.

She was self conscious of the dress but decided to wear it as best she could. This is my night out, and I'm going to have fun. Even if it is a high school graduation party. She was smiling to herself when she felt a pair of eyes scrutinizing her. Sure enough, the eyes belonged to Will Stevens. Oh, here we go. Does he always frown? What's he looking around me for? Oh, looking for my little angels no doubt. Come on, light bulb going off right about….now. She could see it; she could actually see the frown diminishing as he realized the girls were not with her. Could you be more obvious? OK, they're not perfect, but they're my girls and I love them dearly. You are not allowed to judge them. He's walking over here. She couldn't help but fidget in the dress and put her hand up to check her hair.

"Ms Thomas, I'm so glad that you could make it. Are your daughters not with you?"

"No, Marie and Ed blessed me with a babysitter. So I guess you are stuck with just me to entertain you this evening." Wait. That didn't come out right. I don't want him to think that I...

"Well, I think it should be my job to see that you are entertained." He smiled. He actually smiled. And the earth kept turning.

"The room is beautiful and the pictures are a great touch." Beth was uncomfortable that he was smiling; his frown was easier to dismiss.

"I can't claim any credit. All Georgie –er Georgiana's doing." He looked flustered.

"Did you forget her name?" Beth teased.

"No. I was just informed this evening upon leaving Justin's that it was time I addressed her by her given name. 'After all, I am seventeen. I am not a little girl'" He mimicked his sister with a falsetto voice that was quite humorous and didn't sound like her at all.

Beth was dumbfounded. Clearly this was the same man she met and had felt the stern judgment of at Justin's party just a few hours ago. But now, he was completely different; one could actually say he was charming. "Teenage girls," she managed to stutter, "You never know which way the wind is blowing."
"I don't think it's just teenagers." Oh, there he is. That charm was just fleeting. Or maybe he was trying to be funny.

"It is, after all, our prerogative as females, is it not?" There's a perfect pitch for you….

"I am afraid to respond to your severity to your own sex. I think I'd be trapped one way or the other. Suffice it to say I am often left wondering which way to turn my head when some women are around." … And it's a hit, Ladies and Gentlemen! OK. I'll give you that one. Don't expect me to throw any other ones though.

"Good answer, Mr. Stevens. But I am taking up too much of your time. I see many more people have arrived, and I need to find my seat." She smiled as she left to locate Marie and Ed. Will smiled weakly back, straightened his shoulders as if he were going into battle and began to work the room.

Lt Colonel Richard Stevens was on a mission. The only information he could get out of Georgie...Georgiana was that Beth Thomas was a long time friend of Justin's parents, a single mom with two beautiful daughters, and a mother who loved that ridiculous Pride and Prejudice as did his aunt. So, it was up to him to find out a bit more. Scanning the room, there was little other fish in this sea, so he set his hook.

"Beth," he called as he walked up to table where she was seated with Justin's folks and another couple he didn't know. "We're so glad that you could join us."

"Thank you. It is great to be out with adults for a switch. I'm sure Seth is so excited to have you home, even if it's only for a little while."

"Well, the novelty wears off after a few minutes and then he remembers I'm the big brother and I am to be avoided when out with friends."

"Yes, well, never having had siblings, I can only relate to the tag alongs some of my friends had growing up. But, I'm sure that you are quite proud of him.

"Oh yes," Beth could literally see his chest swelling with it, "He has become an amazing you man in spite of everything life dealt to him."

"That sounds like a good story to be told."

"As I'm sure it will be in his speech tomorrow at graduation. His classmates voted for him to address the crowd. I can't imagine a Stevens who actually likes speaking to the public at large, but, hey, more power to him. But, enough about Seth, I would like to know a little more about you." With a wink.

"Oh really?" she asked archly, raising a brow.

"Why, yes. You are the most interesting female here, I am sure."
"I doubt that."

"To me you are. Anyway, you know, I'm just a lonely soldier home on leave…only for a few days…so busy serving my country. Is it too much to ask to just have a friendly conversation with a lovely woman?" He winked again and gave her a self deprecating smile.

"Oh, goodness, but did it just get really deep in here? Just how long have you been out to sea, sailor?

"I beg your pardon, madam. I am NOT a sailor. We soldiers take that kind of talk as an insult."

"Well, we women usually throw back those kinds of lines with the bait still attached."

'OK, so I'm not much of a charmer, but you have to give me credit for trying." Again with the wink and the smile.

"I give you lots of credit, actually. I overhead that you have already been to Iraq once if not more, and you may have to go back again. That deserves much credit."

"Thank you. But it has actually been much harder to worry about my family here no matter where I am in this world."

"There now. Was that so hard?" Beth gave him a winning smile.

"Was what so hard?" Clearly Richard was confused.

"Just being you and speaking from yourself."

"OOO, you're a scary lady, Beth. Do men always unburden their souls to you?" He was trying to cover up his disbelief of what he had said to her with his typical humor.

"I should say not. But I truly believe that the Stevens family has a much more interesting story than does Beth Thomas and her girls."

"Hmmm. Well, I can see I'm not going to get anywhere before dinner, so I had better get to my seat before Will calls me out over the loudspeaker." With that he gave a mock bow and retreated to the front table.

Beth laughed and shook her head. Richard seemed a lot like her, hiding out behind humor and self abasement before anyone else could do it. She was mulling this over when she looked over to Marie and Ed who were eyeing her curiously.

"So….."started Marie, 'Richard seems to be a very nice man…."

"Hold up, there. Just a conversation between two people at a dinner party. That's it. And by the way, why would you hold a dinner party like this when a kid graduates from high school?"

"Well," Ed felt he needed to defend Will, "initially it was supposed to be a pool party and barbeque at their farm. But last week, a big crack was found in the foundation of the pool, and the repairs had to be pretty extensive, so the whole area is a wreck. Will knows the owner of Mason's and called to see if they could host something here as a substitute. So, here we are."

"That explains it, I guess. I'm impressed this got thrown together so quickly."

"Believe me. Nothing Will Stevens does is thrown together." Marie said with a laugh. "Here comes the food that we didn't have to pay for nor do we have to clean up."

"Amen to that. Let's eat" Ed always did things with relish.

During the entire course of Beth's conversation with Richard, Will's eyes couldn't help but keep turning back to watch them. He lost his concentration several times while speaking to people. Not good. Not good. And yet…

He was hoping to hear more information from Georgiana as well when Richard gave her the third degree, only to discover that he knew more than she after his conversation on the porch with Edward. As he sat watching her eating and laughing with her tablemates, he couldn't help but wonder why a single woman would want to take on so much responsibility. He understood, or at least he tried to understand, the need to have children and want them in your life. But to knowingly take on a child so challenging, by yourself, and then another one as well. And then teach somebody else's kids everyday. Whew! Way too many lives to be responsible for in his book.

In between bites and laughter, Beth found herself looking at Will. Just what is his story? Where are all the other people in the pictures of Seth and Georgiana? Where are their parents? She felt the need for a little fact finding of her own.

After dinner, a DJ appeared and the real party got started. All the kids were on the dance floor doing their version of dancing as the adults looked and shook their heads.

"You call that dancing?" Ed said. "Oh, good Lord, I sound like my dad. Quick! Somebody shoot me."

"You do sound like him, Junior," his wife teased. "But I agree. Of course, I can't say much for the music either. But then, Rachel and Justin gag every time I put on Josh Groban or Michael Buble'"

"I gag every time you put on Josh Groban or Michael Buble'" her husband gagged in response. "No. I mean real music. Like has a tune and lyrics and not all synthesized or screaming at me…

'Now you really sound like Ed Sr!" Beth was laughing at her riled up friend.

Just then the DJ came on the mic and announced that he would be mixing it up for all ages and tastes that evening and the beginning strains of a Foreigner song began. "That's our cue, honey. Let's go embarrass our kids and make out on the dance floor" He said in his mock seductive voice.

"Oh, you know how to woo a girl," Marie giggled and smiled at Beth apologetically as she ran off with her husband.

Beth laughed and sighed thinking how luck they were to still be in love and together when her reverie was interrupted. "Excuse me, Ms. Thomas, but would you like to dance? It seems my sister wants me treat her as an adult, but not as a dance partner."

Beth was quite honestly shocked and not too sure she wanted to be so close to Will Stevens. "Under one condition." she said with mock severity.

"Yes?" He was a little concerned.

"You must call me Beth."

"I don't think I can do that"

"Are you kidding me? How can you be so formal for Pete's sake?" He could really agitate her for some reason.

"That's just it. You do not seem like just a "Beth" to me. You seem more than that. I will call you Elizabeth. That suits you better. Come on, Elizabeth. Dance with me."

She wasn't sure how to react to that. "OK," she said meekly and placed her hand in his and let him lead her out to the dance floor.

He put his arm around her waist and then held her hand, the way Beth remembered learning to dance in Jr High. She smiled to herself remembering being taller than every guy in eighth grade and chuckled.

"I can't say that I usually make my dance partner laugh during a power ballad" he tried to make the comment light, but he was a little put out.

"I'm sorry. It's just the way we're dancing reminded me of Jr High and how much taller I was than my partner, Joey. He wore platforms to get to my height. It was truly quite comical. It's no refection on you. You are certainly taller than any man I've ever danced with." Rambling, shut up now.

"Oh, I see. And how could we dance where I did not make you laugh and think of another man even if he was short and hormonal?" Playing with fire here…

"Do you see everyone else?" He looked around. Most everyone had their arms around their partners' necks or waists and was just moving to the music. "Height disadvantage?" he asked.

"I think I can reach up in the atmosphere." She was grateful to be wearing a little bit of heels and he bent down just a bit. Oooh, this was nice. Too nice. Red alert. Must keep talking…cannot get too close…cannot get…OMG, what is that heavenly aftershave…

"I can see where this is better. Thank you for the lesson." Now, what else might Elizabeth be willing to teach me…?

"Will?"

"Hmmm?"

"What is it that you do besides attend and throw graduation parties?"

And there goes the moment I must admit, she waited quite a long time before the inevitable "my, how rich you are" inquiry and subsequent love fest began. "Do you usually talk so much while dancing?" Pause and sigh "I'm a farmer."

She could feel him stiffen a bit and heard his tone become formal with his reply. Geeze, just making small talk here. "Really. What do you grow?"

"Corn mostly. Some tomatoes. I breed horses as well." Was the cautious reply.

"Must be a large farm then?"

"I suppose. Have to have land for the horses to graze."

"That makes sense. I love to take the girls on rides in the country to see the farms. When we come up here we go the back roads for that reason. I'm a lowly school teacher. English. High School…" rambling again…

What, no "How big is your house?" No "you can get a lot of money for thoroughbreds"? "Is that how you met Marie, in education classes?"

"No, she was a year ahead of me. In the middle of my freshman year, I needed to move from my dorm room. I had injured myself playing tennis and couldn't take all the steps in the dorm where I was. Marie's roommate flunked out, so she was on my list to interview. One look at her killer stereo system, and I said, 'hello, roommie.' Little did I know that stereo system was attached to Ed."

"Ah" and just like that. The song ended.

They stood there frozen for a second, neither one really wanting to move or to be the first to break free, but when the "Electric Slide" comes on, one can't really continue slow dancing. "Ohh, that's it for me. Can't stand the disco thing," Will grimaced as he reluctantly stood up straight and removed his hands from around her waist. Beth was getting ready to make a joke about his seriousness when they were interrupted.

"Mr. Stephens," a very short, very nervous looking man approached him, "I really need to speak with you about the graduation ceremony tomorrow. I just don't think it's right that my John can't lead out the row…"

"Sir, can we discuss this some other time?" Will cut him off with a frown.

"Well, I guess later on, but this is so important to his mother and.."

"OK, OK, let's go over here shall we." He looked back Beth and mouthed "sorry Elizabeth" as he steeled himself to listen to the issue.

Before she could react, Richard grabbed her hand and said, "Come on, let's show these pups just who invented disco!"

"Could you be any more opposite of your cousin?" she laughed and joined him in the line. Way too long since I've had this kind of fun.

"Yes. Thank the Good Lord! I love him, don't get me wrong, but I no more have his character than the man in the moon. I couldn't do what he has done everyday for the past fourteen years…" he shook his head, "Beth! You did it again. Stop that! I refuse to be reflective any more this evening. That's an order!"

With a mock salute, Beth shut her mouth and danced the next two songs with Richard and all the kids.

"I can't take it anymore! Have pity on a old woman!" Beth was literally out of breath as she limped off the floor but clearly she was loving every minute of the dances. As she walked back to table, Georgiana stopped her.

"Beth?" she suddenly looked quite small and tentative, "May I talk to you for a minute?"

"Sure. What's up?" Beth put on her teacher voice and attitude.

"Can we sit?" She led Beth to a settee in the corner of room. "Well, I..I..I don't know how to start…" she looked genuinely troubled.
"Georgiana? What is it? Did something happen on the dance floor. Are you ill? Should I find Will?"

"No. No. I want to ask you something, but I don't want you to think I'm a silly girl."

"I doubt I would ever think that." Does this poor girl have anyone to talk to?

"OK. Well, you remember this afternoon when we discovered how our mothers loved Pride and Prejudice?" Beth nodded. "For some reason that made me feel connected to you. I had an older sister named Elizabeth. I don't remember her, but Will sometimes tells me stories about her. They were the closest in age of all our siblings, but still far apart really, like five years or something."

Oh Good Lord, I remind him of his sister! Is there no end to my bad luck with men? Wait..what am I thinking? Concentrate on the girl….

Georgiana was watching the emotions dance across Beth's face before speaking again. "Anyway, I know we just met today and I'm just a seventeen year old, but Beth, would you consider taking my email address and maybe letting me write or text you once in awhile? I know it's stupid…"

"No, Georgiana, it's not stupid at all. You know, I bet our moms would have liked each other. We Austen fans need to stick together. I heard what you said to Justin today, and you know what, I agree with you. I think men should wear a bracelet with WWDD on it." Beth's eyes were dancing with amusement.

Georgiana's were half closed trying to decipher what Beth meant, when they opened wide at the enlightenment and the said together, "What Would Darcy Do!" Both women burst into a fit of laughter.

And of course, there stood Fitzwilliam Darcy Stevens.

Darcy. Again. Always. He's a character in a book! He wanted to scream. Instead, he looked at his little sister who truly was turning into a woman even though he didn't want to admit it. He tried to stop frowning.

"Oh, Will, for Pete's sake! Stop being so moody! Beth and I were just doing a little girl talk. She is so funny. I wish she were my English teacher.' Georgiana pouted with her lip full out, and then started giggling. "Beth, I'll see you tomorrow, right. I'll give you the information I was talking about then," she said conspiratorially and ran off calling to Rachel to come back out and dance.

"And again my head is spinning not knowing which way to turn." He did not mean to say that out loud, but some how, he was glad he did.

"She's a beautiful young woman with a lot on her mind I think. But I wouldn't worry too much. Clearly, she loves her family." Should I….should I…She wanted so much to ask him about his sister, his entire family, but somehow, she felt she might be betraying Georgiana. Really, I've just met these people…

"There's a lot to love in my family." As much as Will wanted to talk further about this subject, he just couldn't bring himself to do that. Not here. Not now. He knew somehow, though, she would listen to him. Comfort him. Maybe even..someday…

"Beth," Justin interrupted, "Mom and Dad said they were ready to go home. Something about how all the work they did for me today just wore them out." He was grinning.

"Ok, babe, I'm coming." For wanting to be matchmakers, Marie and Ed sure need to read the job description. She looked back up at Will, "thanks so much again for asking me to come on such short notice. I really enjoyed myself tonight."

"It was my pleasure, Elizabeth."

Beth really never liked going by her full name. She was rethinking that now.

Beth was quiet on the way home, so Marie and Ed didn't press. Marie was always worried about her friend of twenty plus years, but she also knew when to let her alone. Beth eventually would confide most everything to her. To Marie, Beth looked more tired than usual. To her view, Jeannie seemed more prone to fits than when Beth was up here at Christmas. And she was getting bigger and harder for Beth to physically constrain. Ed told her about Children's Services and the reports this year so far. How much could her friend take? And what about Callie? Marie thought Callie was strung a bit tight as well for just being seven.

"Marie!" Beth yelled. Both Ed and Marie jumped out of their skin "Marie! Where's your copy of Pride and Prejudice?"

"What? You just scared the living…Pride and Prejudice…the movie or the book or the BBC version?' Ed rolled his eyes and ran off into the house mocking them by screaming, "NO, NO, not a chick flick tonight! For the love of God, no chick flick tonight!"

"I don't care," Beth answered totally ignoring Ed, "you won't believe the conversations I had with Will Stephens tonight. I swear, parts of it were just like the book."

"Are you crazy? I think the book is in the den. I can't remember if I bought the movie after you brought it up."

"You can't remember if you bought the best movie ever? How could you possibly be my best friend? Wait..here it is." Beth found the DVD and popped it into the player. Unashamedly, she had seen this movie so many times she could quote it line for line. She had read the book many times as well, but there was something about this movie version; something about this Darcy that just spoke to her.

She started fast forwarding to the scene at Netherfield when Darcy and Elizabeth talk about what makes a woman "accomplished". "Here, right here, Marie" She let the movie play…"Are you so severe on your sex?' Darcy asked looking so puzzled at Elizabeth.

"So," Marie ventured, "You and Will talked about sex?"

"No. NO, you idiot. He was talking about Georgiana and her changing moods. I said that it was a woman's prerogative. He shot back about me being severe on my own sex, you know, gender. But there was another point. When we were dancing." She started to fast forward to the scene at the Ball at Netherfield. "Right here…" The movie played again.."Do you often talk while dancing." Darcy questioned Elizabeth. "When we were dancing together and I was trying to think of something to say, I asked him what he did for a living and he asked me the same question. He's playing with my head. Did you tell him how much I loved this movie, the book?" Elizabeth turned to Marie with accusing eyes.

"I did not! We've never spoken of you. Ed and I just thought it was such a coincidence with your names and how much you love the story and how you two were always rescuing people…"

"What do mean, 'rescuing people'?"

"Beth, surely I don't have to recount to you not only those two little girls asleep in the carriage house, or all students you've helped over the years, or how you helped us in our marriage…"

"That's right you don't. But what do you mean about him. Who has he rescued? And just where is the rest of his family? I saw the pictures, there were quite a few kids in them who looked very similar. Seth is the only one who looks different from the rest."

"That's cause Seth is adopted. Richard's parents adopted him when he was just an infant. His mother had worked on the farms as a migrant and just couldn't take care of him. She wouldn't name the father. Will's parents thought about adopting him as well, but then she found out she was pregnant with Georgiana and that settled it."

"Oh. But that doesn't explain where the heck everybody is."

"No, it doesn't. Beth, both Will's family and Richard's were in a terrible accident fourteen years ago. I'm sure you don't remember me telling you about it. His younger sister, Catherine was in my class that year, and I had Charles four years before that. Not to mention Richard lost his parents. Seth was in his car seat and was the only one that survived. It was horrible."

"Oh my Lord," Beth whispered. "Oh, Marie, I can't even imagine. They must have been devastated. I'm sure they still are. And he took care of the two little ones? Where were he and Georgiana?"

"They came upon the scene minutes after it happened. I'm not sure why they weren't in the cars. Will left school and with the help of his mother's best friend, Sylvia, he raised the kids. Richard had just started his service after ROTC. I don't know all the details, but I don't think Richard handled it very well and didn't come home very often the first several years. That's all I know."

Beth sat quietly for several minutes, taking in all the information Marie had just provided. "I've got to check on the girls." Beth said as if in a trance, the movie long forgotten. "I have to go kiss my girls." She left Marie and walked out to the carriage house to do just that.

Marie watched her go and wished she could kiss her kids then as well. Talking about the story of Will's family usually had the same effect on anyone who heard it.

Chapter 3 - Pride and Prejudice Revisited

Posted on 2009-09-13

Neither Beth nor Will slept very well that night. Both were troubled by dreams; some very familiar some new and equally disturbing. Beth was also compelled to keep checking on the girls even though she logically knew they were just fine. She replayed the conversations with Will in her mind, but then she kept going back to what Marie had told her and to the very real need she felt from Georgiana.

There's no romantic tale here of star crossed lovers. There's real issues. These are real lives that have been shattered. No wonder he's such a control freak. He's sacrificed his whole life for fourteen years. I don't think I could do that. Being an only child and coming from a very small family, Beth could only fathom a fraction of that kind of love. She knew how much her mother sacrificed for her when her father refused to acknowledge her or the baby she carried (there was the real Wickam). She would have done anything for her mother and possibly Marie and Ed, but other than her girls who she chose to adopt, she felt thoroughly unable to rise to that sort of challenge.

She was awakened by discomfort of her recurring dream of Jeannie running so fast from her that she could not reach her. She screams and pleads and begs for her to stop, but Jeannie continues to run, laughing and singing totally oblivious to her mother's pleas. Beth never catches her in these dreams and waking from them always leaves her trembling and fearful.

After getting up and checking on the girls for the umpteenth time, Beth tried to read for awhile, but just couldn't get into the book. Why did he do this virtually alone? Surely he could have found someone to share his life with and shoulder the responsibility of those kids. Tears ran down her cheeks as she visualized this young man trying to cope with two pre-schoolers, mourning so many lives including his own. I can't pity him, though, or any of the others. They are a proud family and would see right through that. Somehow I have to help them. She decided right then that she would help Georgiana in any way she could and try to be a friend to Will, while keeping her promise to have an open mind.

She drifted to sleep again, but images of car wrecks and crying children haunted her through the remainder of the night.

Will did not hear his family come home and he awoke with a start around 2am. He left his bed and padded down the hall as quietly as he could. Lights were turned out, so he knew they made it safely. He could hear music playing softly from Seth's room. Even at eighteen he didn't grow out of his hatred of total silence. Standing at Georgiana's door Will opened it a crack. She would kill him if she knew he did this almost every night. She would also kill him if she knew he knew of the stuffed bear under the covers.

He crawled back into his bed and willed for sleep to come. It seemed within minutes he was running to the two cars, screaming for someone to answer him. Desperate to find the child who was screaming and not knowing where to turn. Then he was holding Georgiana as she cried for her mommy and begged Will to let her see her. She yelled at him for keeping them away. "You bad, Willie. Mommy will spank. You let me see my mommy." As he reels from her, he watches in horror as Richard runs blindly through the desert cursing and screaming at an unseen enemy. Then he sees Jeannie hitting and hitting Beth again and again. He woke up in a cold sweat at 5am and decided to get up and go for a ride on his favorite horse, Magic.

Beth was really tired and did not want to get up for church, but that is just the time when she needs to go to church the most. She and the girls attended the community church whenever they were visiting Marie. Pulling up to the building, she repeated the same rules and warnings to the girls and special instructions for Jeannie.

The service started at 10, but Beth always went early so she could explain some of Jeannie's needs to the Sunday school teachers and answer any questions they might have. This time, the woman teaching remembered Jeannie from last year, so she just asked for an update and Beth was free to wander the building. An older gentleman saw her roaming and told her that they served coffee and donuts in the lobby before the service.

Needing the caffeine, Beth made a bee line upstairs. Smiling at several women standing around the donut table, she made her way to get a cup.

"I wonder if the great Mr. Fitzwilliam Stephens will grace us with his presence today" a voice dripping with sarcasm and bitterness addressed the crowd of ladies Beth had passed.

"Shush, Candace. We are in church you know."

"I don't care who hears me. My conscience is clear, which is more than I can say for him." No one shushed her then so she continued. "I'm sure they'll make a big deal today about that Seth's graduation and how difficult that family has had it and how wonderful and sacrificial is Fitzwilliam Stephens. HA! When will anybody ever confront him about that boy? When will anyone have the guts to make him admit that boy is his son? It makes me sick that he is worshipped like some sort of hero when he abandoned that poor girl and drove her away from her son."

One of the ladies said something that Beth couldn't hear. She knew she should leave but she was frozen in place.

"He did the same with my Gloria. Everyone knows it. He strung her along and made her promises he had no intentions of keeping. Someday the great Fitzwilliam will pay for his ways. You mark my words!"

An usher came out and announced the service was ready to begin and the ladies went on inside. Beth stood with the cup still poised at her lips, but not one drop had found her mouth.

"Georgiana, will you come on. The service is starting. Where did Richard go all of a sudden? Seth, you can't leave your ipod on in the sanctuary…"

"Will, there's Beth." Georgiana cut him off. "Beth, come on, come sit with us." She took the coffee out of Beth's frozen hand and imitated her brother "Beth, you know there is no coffee allowed in the sanctuary. Use your head young lady. Get a move on now."

"Right, like I talk like that."

"You just did before we saw Beth, Will" Seth reminded him laughing.

"Ha, Ha. Funny, funny. Meanwhile here we are on the outside making a spectacle by coming in late." He opened the door and looked at Beth who was still in a bit of a daze. "Elizabeth..." he motioned for her to go into the room. She didn't move. "Elizabeth, is everything alright?"

She finally turned and looked at him and shook her head quickly. "I'm fine." She said curtly and walked into the sanctuary.

"This way," Georgiana whispered and lightly pulled Beth to other side of room to an empty row of pews toward the back. She found herself sitting down between the two siblings and she didn't like that one bit. Gone was her resolve to keep an open mind about Fitzwilliam Stephens. She was fuming.

"We were up so late last night," Georgiana whispered to Beth, "I can't believe we all made it here, although I don't see Richard anywhere…"

"Get a clue, Geo..." Seth whispered, "When have you ever seen Rich in church? He always makes excuses. I can't believe Will got him into the car. He's probably walking to McDonalds right now." Seth chuckled as Georgiana elbowed him, and Will shot them "the look".

Let me out. Let me out. Let me out. I cannot believe I have to sit next to this, this MAN. I'm in church. I'm in church. I'm in church. He's Seth's father! And he's done this more than once! I'm in church. I'm in church. I'm in church…She stole a glance at Will who was looking at her with a puzzled expression. He weakly smiled with questioning eyes. Oh, no. Don't you use your charms on me! Always trust your first impression, Beth. I knew from his manner yesterday. I'm in church. I'm in church. I'm in church.

"Elizabeth, are you sure everything's alright?" he looked genuinely concerned.

"I said I was fine. And really, my name is Beth." If she had looked at him then, she would have seen hurt quickly replaced by anger quickly replaced by resignation.

Oh, she's a piece of work. What in the world have I done now? This woman is impossible! Let's just get this service over with and get on with the day. Really, where the h…I'm in church. I'm in church. I'm in church.

The worship leader came forward and asked everyone to rise to sing. He began with "Fairest Lord Jesus". As this was one of Beth's favorite hymns, she said a prayer of thanks and started to calm down as she sang the lyrics. Beth could carry a tune and would sing to her children all the time. This hymn put Callie to sleep many a night as an infant. She was not, however, aware that as she reverently sang the lyrics, she had an audience.

Georgiana was a great lover of all music and was quite accomplished in piano and flute, but she didn't like to sing in public. Beth's voice was a pleasant surprise and added one more item to the list of why she liked Beth so much and so easily. She stole a glance at her brother and was puzzled by the look on his face.

She couldn't be tone deaf, could she Lord, or sound like Macy Gray. No, she had to have the voice of an angel. Why do you hate me so much, Lord? He glanced sideways to see her eyes closed as she was singing. Oh, and she knows the words by heart, you're killing me up there, you know that, right? He also saw Georgiana staring at him with an amused smirk on her face. He shot her "the look" and tried to get his attention back to the hymnal.

After several more hymns, Beth was more relaxed but still shocked and amazed by what she had heard. Will was just shocked and amazed. He had been instantly attracted to women before, but that was on a physical level. This…this was something different. The physical proximity wasn't helping either. He was a little bothered by her reaction to him when they first talked before the service, but he thought maybe she was embarrassed or maybe she was fighting the same feelings he was. That he was uncomfortable was an understatement. He kept fidgeting in his seat and several times his hand or arm had brushed against hers. She never moved; she never registered anything while he felt a current of electricity rush through him each time they touched. I don't know whether to run like the devil is on my tail or turn right now and tell her we have to talk after this service. This is nuts. And if Georgiana looks at me and giggles one more time, I don't care if we are in church…

Suddenly, it dawned on him that a woman was standing next him and whispering for Beth's attention, "Miss Thomas…Miss Thomas." He could feel Beth immediately stiffen and catch her breath.

"Yes," she sighed.

"Miss Thomas, would you mind coming out with me? It's about Jeannie…"

"Is she OK?" Here we go again
"Well, she is a little hurt, but I'd rather talk to you out in the lobby and take you to her."

"Of course" Beth stood up and tried to move past Will, but he got up as well.

"Elizabeth, I'm coming with you." He whispered.

"No. It's fine."

"Please. I'd like to help..."

"Oh, alright…let's just get out of here. People are staring." She was exasperated, but worried more about Jeannie.

They quickly walked at to the lobby and the teacher started to explain, "We went outside to go on a nature walk to talk about all God has made. Jeannie was fine and holding onto my hand when all of a sudden…:

"She saw a butterfly…" Beth interrupted.

"Yes. And before I knew it, she was running pell mell after it and wouldn't stop. She wasn't looking where she we going and she tripped over a root. I think she'll be fine, but she got so upset and I just couldn't calm her down." The teacher was obviously upset herself and Beth was touched by her concern.

"It's alright. I just appreciate how much you care about Jeannie when you only see her a few times a year."

"She's one of God's special gifts, and I take care of my gifts." What a beautiful answer.

Beth turned to Will as they were approaching the classroom and she could hear Jeannie wailing, "I appreciate your offer for help, but from what I just heard, I'm sure Jeannie will be fine. You're missing the service for the graduates. You should be up there with your s…with Seth."

He looked at her wondering what she was going to say before she stopped herself. "I don't mind, really."

Beth sighed and walked into the room. "Jeannie…Jeannie…look up…it's momma." Beth walked over to her daughter who was crumpled on the floor in a fetal position rocking herself back and forth and crying. "Jeannie, momma's here. Look at me, honey. Let me see your booboo." Jeannie stopped rocking and looked up.

"Momma, look I'm bleeding!" there was a small scrape on her knee and Beth knew the inevitable bruises would begin showing soon. "Momma I lost Grandma's butterfly again. Why can't I ever catch Grandma's butterfly?"
"Honey, you don't have to catch every butterfly you see," Beth was down on the floor now and rocking her child. "Grandma said she would send you butterflies to remind you that she loved you and was watching over you. You don't have to catch them to feel Grandma's love, do you?"

"But I want to momma. Grandma's dead you know. I was there. I saw her. Remember, Momma." Suddenly Jeannie forgot all about the booboo and the butterfly and was talking on about the funeral and the casket and everything about the whole ordeal. Beth sighed and started to get up off of the floor when a hand shot out to help pull her up. She didn't want to take his hand, but she felt it would be rude and didn't want to make yet another scene, so she took and looked up into his face as she did.

Will had, of course, witnessed the scene of mother and child and he was fighting back tears. There was so much more to this woman than he could even imagine, of that he was sure. He felt a pounding of his heart that he didn't think was ever there before or at least had been quiet for way too long. When she finally took his hand, although he laughed when he had heard people say things like it before, it felt as if it had always belonged there in his. As he gently pulled her up, their eyes locked. For a brief second he thought he saw the same emotions in her eyes, but she quickly looked away and withdrew her hand.

"Thank you," was all she said as she took Jeannie's hand and walked out of the room. He heard her explain to Jeannie that they would go get Callie and head back to Marie's. "I've had enough to deal with this morning," was the last thing he heard her say.

He walked back into the sanctuary as the minister was announcing the names of each graduate. Georgiana looked at him and the around for Beth. "What happened?" she asked tentatively.

"Jeannie fell outside and hurt herself. Elizabeth decided to just take her back to Rachel's.

"What's with the "Elizabeth" thing?" She had a twinkle and a smirk for her big brother.

"Shut up. They're getting to Seth's name." As Seth stood up, Will clapped and acted like he was going to whistle, but Georgiana pushed his arms down in mock horror. "I can't take any of you anywhere."

After standing by watching Seth have his hand shaken or back slapped a dozen times, the trio was finally leaving the church when they spied Richard walking up the street drinking what was probably a large Coke. "Told ya," Seth laughed. He loved his brother, but he was not unaware of his faults or his weaknesses.

Richard had never forgiven God for what happened to his family. He couldn't come to terms with it in any tangible way, so he ran. He was getting better about coming home over the last four or five years and his emails were more frequent since his last tour in Iraq. He knew his family hated what he did for a living for the danger it put him in, but he just couldn't come home for any length of time and he felt unable to do anything else but be a soldier. He couldn't protect his family, so he felt the need to protect the entire country instead.

"So," Will said as Richard ambled up to the truck, "today you were the McDonalds Methodist as opposed to the Burger King Baptist at Easter or, what did you say at Christmas…it was so clever, oh yes, Wendy's Wesleyan."

"Can't be something I'm not." was the gruff reply signaling to Will to drop it. Georgiana and Seth exchanged worried looks. The cousins were seldom at odds, but Richard's lack of faith bothered them all. "Where are we off to now?" Richard tried to change the subject a little too merrily.

"Juanita said she would have brunch for us when we got back to the farm. I told her to take the weekend off, but she insisted that you never eat right, so she would make at least one good meal for you before you had to go back to North Carolina." Will decided having one person act peculiarly today was enough for him.

"Which would be right after the ceremony I'm afraid." Richard often blew in like that, driving straight through the fourteen some odd hours it took to get back to Fort Bragg "And don't start on me about the distance. I have to report at 0800 tomorrow, so whether you're official or not Seth, I have to jet by 5 o'clock sharp. Can you do something about that Mr. Board of Education?"

"Yeah, I'll have them go in reverse alphabetical order just to change things up a bit. Seth, we'll just have to cut your speech as well."

"Fat chance, Fitzman," Seth laughed. "This is my one chance to tell the whole town about what a wretched life I've had and how horrible you all are to me. I also plan to moon the room for my big finish."

"And with your big butt, it would be big finish" Will and Richard couldn't believe their dear, sweet Georgiana would be capable of a cut like that, but there it was and they laughed most of the way to the farm.

After the accident, Richard had no desire to live in the farmhouse, but was adamantly opposed to selling the property. He felt that if someday Seth wanted it that was fine with him. This, of course, left one more thing for Will to deal with. With some of the life insurance, Will paid off his aunt and uncle's house and property. A migrant family that had consistently worked for both farms for many years wanted to stay in the area so that their children could have a better life. Richard and Will decided to rent the house to the Rodriguez family, and they lived their ever since. Juanita, the mother of the clan, took it upon herself to take care of the Stephens, or as she called them, "mi chica familia".

Juanita would cook enough food at her house to bring over to Will and the kids at least four times a week. She cleaned the house and did the laundry. In exchange, Will paid the health insurance for the family and the kids were always allowed free reign of the pool, stables and whatever else the property had to offer. Juanita knew everything, or just about, that happened to her chica familia, and she was extremely protective and loving, but she also spoke her mind if she felt any of them were going off track.

She was only ten years older than Will, but neither acknowledged that slight difference. Will respected her deeply and these fourteen years she had been invaluable to him. His mother's best friend, Sylvia, had helped so much in the first year after the accident. Will was clueless as to how to deal with the small children thrust upon him. He had been away at school for almost six years, so he missed most of Georgiana's, Lydia' and Catherine's young lives. Charles was born when Will was in his teens, and though he loved him, it was more in that he's a nuisance, but he's my baby brother kind of way. There were six years difference between Will and his sister Elizabeth. She was the only one he could truly say he felt close to. He had guarded her and fussed over her for the first several years of her life, but that had been so long ago and there was a huge difference between acting like the big brother and acting like the father, mother and sibling.

Sylvia became ill the year after the accident and succumbed to cancer within eighteen months, so Juanita stepped in at an even greater level. She knew the feelings of both Richard and Will and how they had dealt with the tragedy in such radically different ways. One area both men seemed to agree on was in settling down. Each man's parents had enjoyed strong, affectionate marriages. She wished that they would believe in that kind of love for themselves, but each seemed hesitate to give of themselves to anyone other than their tight knit family.

As she stood there watching the four devour her huevos rancheros, enchiladas, rice and beans, she was so proud of how far they'd come, but she feared how the older siblings would handle Seth leaving home and the eventuality of Georgiana leaving as well.

"Juanita," Will said between bites, "don't you have to get home to get Rosita ready? Another down, two to go for you, eh mamacita."

"She would not let me help her. She is so wanting to be the boss all the time now. We had fun last night. Everyone was at the casa. I hope we didn't keep you awake."

"Oh, no," Richard laughed. "The houses are farther apart than a little salsa music can interrupt. Although, I did wake up with the strange urge for nachos."

"Ha. Ricardo you think you are so funny. You better come home again soon."

"I am, Juanita. I'll be back in August like always, for whatever adventure Will plans for us before seeing Seth off to Purdue."

"OK, then. I'll see you at the graduation later. Bye mi corazones."

They all sat back in their chairs thoroughly stuffed and a little sleepy. "Hey, no time for siesta, guys!" Seth startled the other three. "It's after one and I have to be at school in less than an hour."

"Yeah, yeah," yawned Richard, "you act like it's all about you."

"As it should be big bro. No get up and give me whatever present you've been hiding in your room for just the right time. Don't think I didn't notice there were no presents from any of you last night."

"Geeze, my getting here should be present enough I should think. The sacrifice I had to endure…"

"Stop!" All three yelled together while laughing.

"OK, OK," he surrendered hands up, "I happen to have it on me, sir." He handed Seth an envelope containing a funny card and a loaded gift card. "So I went for the practical which is unusual for me, I know. But, I know that you will need it."

"Thanks, Rich. You know that I will use it. And you will keep loading it for me, right."

"Yeah, sure, all the time cause Uncle Sam has me rolling in the bucks." Richard wanted to say more to his brother, but he just couldn't. Seth could see that in his eyes and accepted the gift for what is was: the best his brother could do.

"So," he turned to the other two.

"So, what?" teased Will. "Wasn't that party enough? You always want more little man…"

'Ha! You should owe me for that party, Fitzman."

"How do you figure that?"

"Cause you couldn't have danced like that with Beth at a pool party."

There was a long pause. Georgian's eyes were wide, looking from Will to Seth to Richard, waiting for who would speak next. Seth always spoke his mind, and he could push Will's buttons so easily. But Will said nothing. Nothing. "I have your gift upstairs, Seth," she said. "I'll be right back." She decided it might be a good time to exit.

"Not going to make a comment, then?" Seth was egging Will on a bit too much.

"Nothing to say, little man. But continuing down that path may cost you what's behind door number 2."

"Door number 2?" Richard and Seth both yelled, looked at each other, and then tore off for the garage yelling like wild men. Will scrambled after them holding up the garage door opener and threatening to keep it closed for Seth's impertinence. Of course that didn't last long and Seth was gifted with a brand new half bed truck.

The atmosphere was much more subdued when Beth brought the girls home to Marie's. They were playing in the front yard while she sat on the front porch petting SpongeBob. Marie had never lost the habit of wanting to sleep in whenever she could, and the entire family was just rousing a little before noon.

Beth appreciated the time to reflect on the last twenty four hours. She had traveled to Bryan with the sole intention of celebrating Justin's graduation and maybe some girl talk with Marie Meeting a man like Will was never on her radar because in the last several years, she had settled with herself that finding a mate just wasn't in her future. She found it extremely hard to trust men and usually found some reason to not pursue or encourage relationships.

In her twenties, she was so busy settling into teaching and then getting her masters so before she knew she was in her thirties with a nice house, solid career and an empty heart. Seeing no prince on the horizon, she took the classes to foster and then adopt. Jeannie bounded into her life at one year of age when Beth was thirty one. Two years later Children's Services called asking if Beth would want a sibling of Jeannie's – a new born. Though Jeannie was already a handful, Beth couldn't pass up Jeannie's sister and the chance to love a baby.

During this time, Beth would sometimes catch a man's eye while shopping or sometimes a fellow teacher would ask her out, but no on seemed to measure up to her ideal of a father for the girls or the partner for her. She knew she had the Darcy complex, thanks to her mom at first, but definitely compounded after that 2005 movie. Having no father figure in her life hadn't helped either. She had never met her father, nor did she have any desire to at this point.

Which brought her thoughts back around to Will. She wasn't sure if she believed the woman's story that Seth was really Will's son. The pieces just didn't fit with her somehow. But as to the rest of what she said, why would she lie about her own daughter and talk about it so openly? Beth despised men who used women. She saw the effects all the time teaching high school. So many children without fathers, so many broken homes. So many times she had talked to the young women about respecting themselves and holding out for love and for honor. She had done the same herself, although she didn't go around broadcasting that fact. She felt like she was the world's oldest virgin, but she had her self respect and she became a mother when she was ready.

Her mind then traveled back over the dinner party last evening and the very intimate dance she had with Will. She closed her eyes and could still smell his aftershave. She couldn't deny how good it felt to have someone's arms around her. And it did feel good. Although she had laughed at how formally they first started dancing, it seemed to fit Will to be dancing in the traditional manner- just as Darcy would do. But he's not Darcy. No man can live up to that expectation. And what was he getting at with insisting on calling her Elizabeth. And the conversations that so closely resembled the book. Did that book influence him more than he would ever let on? Was Fitzwilliam Darcy Stephens a closet romantic looking for his Elizabeth? The whole situation was confusing, unsettling, and truly unlike anything she had encountered before.

She thought about asking Marie more particulars about the Stephen's, but she didn't want to get the third degree herself and she truly didn't want to cast aspersions on Will if they weren't true. Still, it bothered her. He seemed like two different people, and she didn't trust either one completely. With mixed feelings, she packed up the van to head south, ate a light lunch with their hosts, and got ready to go to the graduation.

The school's gymnasium was transformed, at least as much as a gym can be, complete with a stage, pillars and attractive plants wrapped around it. Walking in, Beth couldn't help but search the crowd for Will's impressive, or was it imposing, figure. She didn't have to look long as he, Georgiana and Richard were approaching.

"Rachel," Georgiana was laughing, "You'll never guess what Will got for Seth!"

"Hmmm, let me think….a truck." She answered smugly.

"As if there was a doubt" both girls giggled. "Beth, here's the information we talked about." Georgiana handed Beth her cell number and email address.

"And I have yours as well," Beth slid Georgian the contact information nervously. Will and Richard looked on curiously.

"Don't worry," Georgiana said in a stage whisper, "it's safe with me. Will we see you after…"

"No, I'm afraid not. We will leave when it's over. I don't have as long a drive as Richard, but with two kids in the back, it will seem like it."

"We remember those days, don't we Will," Richard clapped him on the back.

Will shuddered, "All too well. I don't envy either of you today." But I'd sure like to get to know one of you much better.

"Hey, we better find seats or we won't be able to see up in the nose bleed section," Ed was forever steering and herding. He joked it was his lot in life.

As a member of the Board, Will could have sat on the stage, but he preferred to sit in the stands, although they did save seats in the second row so they could see clearly. "Would you like to sit with us?" He was trying not to sound too eager, but that fact was, he was.

During his morning ride on Magic Will decided that he owed it to himself to get to know Beth better. She obviously was developing a friendship with Georgiana, he reasoned, and therefore, he should become better acquainted for that reason. He knew he was kidding himself, but that was all he was allowing at the moment.

"As great as that sounds," Beth cut into his thoughts, "I'd rather sit closer to the exit in case I have to leave quickly. But you guys," She turned to Marie, "should go ahead. You'll be able to see Justin perfectly. I've already said my good byes to him, so if we do leave…oh who am I kidding, he's so excited he won't miss us at all."

Everybody laughed except Will who was studying her closely. He was trying to figure out if she was avoiding him or if he was being paranoid, or possibly a little bit of both. Suddenly, Beth met his gaze and their eyes locked. Think of something clever, man. Here's you chance…and nothing. Beth's face flushed a little then she looked down at Jeannie who was chattering away about playing basketball in the gym and why were all these people standing here instead of playing the game.

"So Beth," Richard came to the rescue, "it was truly a pleasure to meet you and the girls. I hope our paths will cross again. Oh, I guess they will when these two graduate." He motioned towards the girls. "Unless Will finds a way to keep Georgiana from doing that…" He elbowed Will.

"What?" Will was slightly dazed and only half listening to Richard. "Wait, you make me sound like I don't want her to grow up and leave home."

"You don't." Richard, Georgiana and Rachel said together and began to laugh.

"What is this, gang up on Will day!" he wasn't sure if he was insulted or if they were truly teasing him.

"Everyday is gang up on you day just to remind you that you are not in control of everything, Cousin." Richard's reply had a little bite to it, but he was laughing.

"Would everyone please find a seat. We will begin in five minutes" a voice came over the loud speaker to break the conversation.

As everyone was moving around them, Will and Beth stood still. "Elizabeth…"

"Will," she cut in, "I need to apologize for this morning. I was rude to you, and I know that you were trying to be polite."

"No, I was trying to help."

"OK. Regardless, I was short with you…"

"Did something happen before we came in?" He wanted to know just what had happened..

"No, not really, It's just I heard something that upset me a bit."

'To do with me or just in general?"

"Well, I…"

"Momma, we need to sit. Everyone is sitting. I want to watch the game." Jeannie pulled at Beth's arm toward the stands.

"Honey, wait a minute…"

"Momma! Now!" she tugged harder.

"Jeannie, stop, you'll hurt Momma" Callie was trying to pull Jeannie's hand from Beth's arm.

"But I want to see the game!" Jeannie insisted. Then they were all talking at once.

"Everyone, stop!' Will did not yell, but his voice was a loud enough trigger that Jeannie dropped Beth's arm while Callie and Beth looked at up at him in disbelief.

"There, that's better," he said smugly until Jeannie started to scream.

"Yes, thank you so much," Beth said sarcastically. "I think I can take it from here. Just when I try to apologize, you appear as overbearing and above it all as you did yesterday. Good-bye Mr. Stephens."

"Good-bye, Ms. Thomas." Infuriating woman. I wasn't trying to control anything. I was trying to fix the situation so that we could talk. For the life of me, I will never understand women. They can correct their children all they want, but you try to help and they get all momma bear on you. He stomped across the floor and bounded up the steps to the bleachers where Richard and Georgiana were pointing at Seth and they seemingly missed the whole exchange with Beth. Thank Goodness.

Beth walked with the girls to end of the gym and finally got Jeannie to stop screaming. Beth tried to explain that Mr. Stephens didn't yell at her per se, he just had a big voice that startled them all. And a big nose to stick into my business. Where does he get off…

"Momma, they're not playing basketball." Jeannie was indignant.

"Yes, that's right. They will not be playing basketball today." Jeannie did settle down a bit and they were able to watch the processional and see Justin and then later, Seth, walk in. Beth's mind began to wander as the principal got up and started talking about the class. This is why I don't date. I either have to worry that the man is some kind of nut after my kids or he wants a mother himself, or he's a control freak that has to have things just so! Why am I letting him get under my skin? Let it go; just like you say to Jeannie, let it go.

She allowed herself to glance over to where they were all seated. Marie and Ed were beaming with pride while Georgiana and Rachel were laughing at something. Richard looked a little bored with it all, but Will, Will looked…so incredibly handsome…WAIT…no that's not it. He's irritating and domineering and probably a perfectionist…and incredibly handsome. And staring back at me right about now. Beth blushed as if he could tell what she was thinking. He shrugged his shoulders at her and smiled a little. She smiled back. Then Jeannie announced to all the world that this was stupid and she was leaving.

Beth decided it was best to just go. She picked up her purse, took the two girls' hands, and walked out of the gym. She turned one last time to wave at Marie and Ed and she held her hand up as she saw Will look at her with a pained expression. Yes, I'm leaving your ordered little world now. As you were…

Will was going to go after Elizabeth. He was compelled. Until he heard the principal announce Seth and his speech. A break, Lord, just a break. Is that too much to ask?
It would have to be enough that at least she smiled at him before she left. But it wasn't. He didn't know what to do with these feelings, but he knew that Seth's speech would probably send a whole other range of emotions through him.

Seth's speech was poignant, funny and irreverent, just like him. He talked about his birth mother and the sacrifice she made so that he could have a better life. He talked about his adoptive parents that he only had vague memories of, but the lasting implications of their love for him and Richard. He applauded his brother for his bravery and service to his country and the good times they share when he was home. Georgiana was an example to love life and make the most of what opportunities he was given. When he paused, Will got nervous, wondering if Seth could make it through.

"He'll be alright," Richard said. "I read his speech. He knows what he's doing." But Richard kept his grip on Will's arm, so much so that it was starting to hurt just a little.

"There is so much I could say about my cousin William, or Fitzman as I like to tease him when he gets too serious or demanding. Many people see him as this dark, tragic figure who demands perfection and has little patience for error. And while the last part is true…(pause for laughter) Will is not dark or tragic. He is simply my light. So many times he could have given up on us, thrown up his hands and said that we were impossible and gone on to live his life. But he didn't. He told me to keep working, laughing and believing in myself. He taught me to be grateful for all that we had left, and for all that God had provided in the middle of all the sadness.

"I'll never know what I missed not having my mom and dad to raise me and my other cousins around to ignore me and to tease me. I guess Will will never know what his life would have been like as a famous artist or something like that. But I did, and still do, have a parent who loves me and challenges me and who will let me go to Purdue for Agricultural Science so that I can home and tell him everything he is doing wrong. But you won't have to worry about me, Will because you did good."

Will didn't even realize that he was up and moving. He was listening to Seth, but moving toward the stage. Seth stepped away from the mic and the room exploded into clapping and whistling and cheering. The two men met at the end of the stage and shook hands and then embraced. Will wasn't sure he could keep it together, but Seth said in his ear, "Payback for the Beth comment today, oh, and it was me who broke Auntie's vase ten years ago." Will started laughing and hugged him again.

Beth missed it all as she walked to the parking lot and sped away toward home.