Beginning, Previous Section, Section VI, Next Section

Chaper 18 Together

Posted on 2009-10-31

By the time Will reached the drive to the farm, it was going on 2am. He was physically tired, but his mind was still racing in many directions. There were no unfamiliar cars anywhere and most of the lights were out in the house. He walked in and up the stairs carrying the borrowed shirt. Smiling as he thought about his robe, he brought the shirt up to his face and could smell Beth's perfume faintly. She's still with me.

"Will?" Richard was standing in his bedroom's doorway. "Man, what a night!"

"You seem particularly fired up, Mr. Spokesman." Will laughed.

"You don't know the half of it. Come on, we might as well stay up now and wait on the kids. That way we're proper chaperones and all that jazz."

They walked into the den and each man sat in his favorite chair. Teasing Will a little more, Richard inquired of Beth and their ride home. Will explained that no one seemed to be around the house and simply stated they sat on the porch awhile before he left to come home

"Hmm, Right." Richard sneered.

'No, seriously that's about it. I stayed on the front porch the entire time and we didn't sit out in the truck at all."

"What's with the shirt in your hands?" he accused.

"If you must know, she went inside and changed clothes and handed me the shirt."

"And…"

"And mind your own business. You're getting as bad as Juanita. Nothing else happened, just like nothing else happened any other time we've been together." Will sighed.

"You mean you guys haven't …"

"No." Will answered sharply.

"You're kidding me."

"No, I'm not."

"Well, what's the deal?"

"Richard…" Will warned.

"Fitzwilliam…" Richard countered.

"Elizabeth's different."

"Different?"

"She's not, that is to say she doesn't believe in…" Will shifted uncomfortably in the chair.

"Are you saying what I think you're saying?" Richard's face was full of humor.

"Yes. Now can we just leave it alone?" Will glared at him.

"This story just gets better and better between you two. Now I understand why she was so upset at the gossip that she slept with you to get her job."

"I respect her beliefs Richard."

"Yes, I'm sure that you would. Wow." Richard sat in stunned silence. "Have you ever been with a – "

"Oh, for the love of Mike, Richard, can we just leave it alone?" Will roared as Richard laughed all the more.

The two couples came home around 3:30, talked to Will and Richard for another half an hour, and everyone went their separate ways a little after four. Richard had relayed the phone interview with the reporter as they waited in the den. Though neither man spoke it a loud, each was proud of the other at how the evening was handled and the respect that had grown for each other and for Beth.

Will trudged up the stairs and fell into his bed. Realizing he would be getting about four hours of sleep, he rolled over, not even bothering to change out of his dress shirt and pants. He did, however, place the shirt Beth had worn on the pillow next to him. He would deny he ever did it, but it was the closest thing to her presence that he knew he would have. He just hoped it wouldn't be for long.

The alarm sounded and Beth rolled over to shut it off. Will's robe was next to her and she snuggled into it for a minute before rising. She threw it on, put on her slippers and looked for the paper on her porch. She had just ordered the Times a few days ago and wasn't sure when she would begin to get it each morning. Sure enough, it was laying on the bottom step.

She wondered if she should wait until Will came over, but her curiosity wouldn't stand for that. She did, however, make herself get a shower and get ready before opening it. When she was satisfied that she looked alright for a woman who had cried most of the night and then was up until the wee hours of the morning, she sat down in the kitchen to her cup of coffee and the paper.

And there it was on the front page: "Multi Term School Board Member Resigns Amid Rumors of Influencing". Beth felt her stomach churn. The article was fairly factual, recounting what had occurred at the prom, Will's resignation and then statements from witnesses, the two women who started the whole thing, and then the principal and assistant superintendent. The School Board President's response ended the article, but then there was a teaser for related story turn to the Lifestyle Section.

Steeling herself for what could possibly be there, Beth found herself and Will on the front page of the section. It was a picture of the two of them dancing New Years' Eve cleverly photoshopped onto the cover of a Pride and Prejudice edition. The headline stated, "Fitzwilliam Darcy and his Elizabeth Live Again in Bryan, OH". Essentially, the article was Richard's retelling of the last year of Beth and Will's llives. As much as it embarrassed her, she had to admit that Richard had done an amazing job and the reporter had obviously taken the romantic bait.

Seeing her life in print in this manner was a little disconcerting, but by the end, Beth felt vindicated. There was a section about her decision to adopt and the challenges that a single mom of a special needs child faces daily; but it wasn't melodramatic or sickly sweet. Beth smiled as she could hear Richard's voice in the description of their misunderstandings, Will's letter and how the whole thing ironically followed Austen's classic tale.

The doorbell rang as she was finishing the article. Grabbing her purse, she headed for the door. They were still at the stage that every time they saw each other, they experienced the thrill of mutual attraction. Beth smiled warmly and standing on her tip toes, kissed Will lightly. "Mr. Darcy," she smiled archly.

"Miss Elizabeth," he returned. "Maybe that book isn't so cursed after all."

"So you read it?"

"Of course. Or should I say that it was read to me. Twice. Now he fancies himself an author or reporter. I swear, sometimes I think he's 18." Will shook his head as he took Beth's hand.

"He was just what we needed last night though." Beth admonished him gently. She felt the electric current of his touch and smiled.

"Well, when you were there, yes. I could've done without his teasing company when I returned from your place." He glanced sideways to see her reaction.

"Let him have his fun Will. He needs to find someone, too."

"Oh, no. I have had enough of Operation this and maneuvering that. He's on his own."

Church service was interesting to say the least. The couple endured stares, pointed fingers, inappropriate questions and outright snubs from several members. Will was fuming and Beth was humiliated. She had enjoyed visiting this church for all the years she had known Marie and Ed, but she was considering looking elsewhere to worship.

Hearing Beth's voice as she sang the hymns calmed Will's agitation and holding her hand didn't hurt either. The sermon topic was forgiveness and Beth squeezed Will's hand several times as various points were made and scriptures read. "My mother used to do that to me." Will bent his head and whispered to Beth with a chuckle. How he loved this woman.

As they exited the sanctuary, Candace and her sister Patricia's voices could be heard above the din. "The nerve of them showing up here in the house of God flaunting their immoral relationship. It is disgraceful. Something must be done."

Will listened as his eyes turned black, his jaw was set and he led Beth to where the women were standing. The crowd parted to let them through and the atmosphere was charged.

"Candace, we just sat through a church service where we were reminded to forgive and to seek forgiveness. I am genuinely sorry that you feel I played a role in Gloria's misfortunes, but the fact is, you and I both know her mental illness has nothing to do with me. I have ignored your remarks and your poisoning of my reputation because I hardly cared what you said. But you and your sister have crossed a line when you attempt to disgrace an innocent woman and to deprive her of her livelihood to seek your own ends. This must stop and it will stop today. Ms. Thomas is above reproach in all matters in which she has been accused."

He looked at Patricia, "I warned you last evening that I would not tolerate anymore public slandering of Ms. Thomas. This is your last chance because we are in fact in a house of worship. Think what you want of me, but leave her out of it."

With that, he turned and the crowd of people parted again as he lead Beth towards the door. Many people were smiling their encouragement to her and one woman said loudly as Beth walked by, "It's about time, Will." Beth felt she was holding her breath and only until they were outside did she exhale.

"What a pleasant service, don't you think?" Will smiled and kissed her cheek.

"Oh yes, that went quite well. I was hoping there would be a second service we could attend." They laughed and walked toward the truck.

Deciding that they should continue to be seen out in public, Will chose a restaurant in town to eat lunch. More stares and whispered voices invaded their time together. Beth laughed as she reminded Will that this was only their second date. She also reminded him that this was his opportunity to reveal more about himself.

Will found it difficult to rise to this challenge, but he decided to just take the plunge. He began with what it was like to take over the family businesses after the accident. He described his art and how he lost it for so many years. "You are my muse now," brought a flush to her cheeks as he kissed her hand. Ending with his master's program, he set back in his seat when he was finished.

Listening intently while pretending to eat, Beth was astonished at all of Will's interests and his artistic sensibility. She wanted to see more of his art, but felt that he would show her when he felt comfortable to do so. Asking a few questions for clarification purposes, she now felt that at least she knew more about the public Will Stephens along with what motivated him to achieve.

The restaurant was only a few blocks from Marie's so they decided to walk there together. The plan was to pick up Callie, walk back to the truck and then Beth and her daughter would drive to Ft. Wayne to see Jeannie for a bit. She had earned an afternoon out because of her run of good choices in behavior, so Beth had planned a picnic for them to share at a local park.

They both acknowledged that they should have felt exhausted, but being together and finally coming to terms with each other gave them renewed energy. Holding hands walking down the historic district streets, Beth couldn't help but comment on what Elizabeth and Darcy would have discussed on their walks after they had finally reached an understanding of each other.

"Well, he was a hopeless romantic," Will mused, "so I imagine he would tell her how beautiful her long hair was as it shone in the sun. He would enumerate how all her different facial expressions were not lost on him, and how he had longed to be the object of those smiles and tender gazes. He would say that her lovely eyes and their sparkle was his initial downfall, but what he loved the most was that pert little mouth and all the witty, impertinent words that had fallen from it…"

'My heavens," Beth interrupted, "once you get started talking, you don't stop do you?"

"Not when I'm talking about you."

"You were talking aboutt Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth" she blushed as she realized his meaning.

"No, I was talking about you." He stopped in front of Victorian Garden Park. Gazing down into her face, he lifted her chin and drew her mouth to his. After a few moments, Beth broke away smiling, "Mr. Darcy certainly wouldn't have done that."

"Then Mr. Darcy was a fool." He took her hand in his and they completed their walk.

They walked up on the porch and knocked expecting Callie to come bounding out the door any minute. Instead, Ed answered, opened the door and then yelled to Marie, "Honey, Brad and Angelina are here!"

"Ha Ha, how long did it take you to think of that one, Mister Ed?" Beth laughed as she crossed the threshold.

Ed shook Will's hand then followed them into the parlor, "I have natural wit, my Lizzybeth. It's my greatest gift to mankind."

"Wow, you are full of it today, I'd say. How was Callie?"

"I was terrific, wasn't I Mr. Ed?" Callie skipped into the room and gave her momma her biggest hugs "We played all night long, then I got to watch all kinds of cartoons this morning, and then we played more and more! I love it here!"

"Well, I can understand why," Beth hugged her daughter again.

'She gave the old man a run for his money," Marie laughed entering the room. "We were all entertained by today's paper, though."

"Momma, you and Will were in the paper! You were dancing like Cinderella or something. Are you the prince, Will?" Callie looked up into Will's face.

"I hope I'm your momma's prince," Will squatted down to talk to her. "Would you like that if I were your momma's prince?"

Callie thought for a moment then cocked her head to side, examining Will as only an almost eight year old can. "Well, I suppose momma has waited longer for a prince than I have, so I guess I can wait for the next one to come."

The adults laughed which pleased Callie. She danced around Will and then suddenly stopped. Will was still squatting at her eye level. She faced him eye to eye and said earnestly, "Princes don't leave after they say the love the princess."

"Yes, I guess that's true." Will answered.

"Do you love my momma?" Callie was still looking at him intently.

"Callie, that's not an appropriate question to ask right now" Beth interrupted.

"Can I tell you a secret instead?" Will asked mischievously.

"Oh, yes. I love secrets." Will whispered in Callie's ear and her eyes lit up. She jumped up and down and then threw herself into Will's arms almost throwing him off balance.

"That must have been some secret," Ed laughed.

"It was the best secret ever!" Callie hugged Will again and then danced away calling for SpongeBob to come and play.

All eyes were on Will. "I'm not saying a thing. It's a secret between the two of us." They all laughed and Beth hoped that whatever had passed between Callie and Will would come true.

Beth was anxious to get to Ft. Wayne for the picnic, so they retrieved Callie's bag and walked back to the truck. Callie danced in front of the couple and then she would come around to hold her momma's hand and then Will's and then the three of them walked down the street with Callie holding each of the adult's hand.

Will forgot what it was like to have a little hand in his and he enjoyed the feeling immensely. He had a great affection for Jeannie, but he had to show objectivity in their sessions. He wondered if he should talk to Dr. Evans and get Jeannie transferred to another therapist so that he could visit her as Beth's…hmm…am I too old to be a boyfriend?

Callie asked if Will could stay while Beth changed clothes and prepared the picnic. Will was happy to oblige and Beth could hear them laughing and playing in the back yard as she hustled around the kitchen. Looking out the window, Beth prayed that this scene would be repeated many times and that someday Jeannie would be with them as well.

Standing at the door, she called them in and the both ran to her laughing. "You two make quite a pair out there." Beth smiled at them both.

"Momma, Will is so much fun. Can he come with us to see Jeannie?" Callie looked up at both of them with her best and biggest pleading eyes.

"Not today," Will said as he sensed Beth needed some time with just her girls. "I have some things I have to do on my farm, remember, I have lots of horses to feed."

"And ponies. I remember you promised me a ride, Will."

"Yes, I did. We will make plans for that soon, OK?" Will bent down and asked her if he could give her a hug. With a quick nod, Will swooped her up into his arms and hugged her to him. Beth's heart skipped a beat and she couldn't help the tear that was forming. Please let this last for us this time, she silently prayed.

Beth told Callie to go get ready, and the very happy child was more than willing to obey. Beth walked out to the door with Will. "I hate for you to go, but I thank you for knowing I need time with my girls, too." Beth tiptoed to place a quick kiss on Will's lips. "Hey, I thought the beard was history" she teased.

"I didn't get up in time this morning. Besides, a man and his beard is a special relationship. I have to get psyched up for this." He teased.

"That's not what you said last night. What if I boycott your kisses until it's gone?"

"You wouldn't" Will challenged.

"You're right. Remember, I've waited a long time for my prince, I'm not going to waste anymore time."

Will didn't need an invitation to be any clearer. They were enjoying the feel and taste of each other until Callie announced that she was ready to leave.

Jeannie was happy to see her momma and sister, so the three of them had a wonderful picnic and playtime in the park. Beth sat on the blanket and watched her daughters run and laugh and occasionally bicker, but nothing too serious. After about an hour, Jeannie started getting anxious and eventually demanded that they get back to her cottage. Trying not to take it personally, Beth packed up the remains with the blanket and they returned to the campus.

Once back in the cottage, Jeannie announced she was going to find the rest of the kids before everyone had to go to be bed. Callie looked a little hurt at the curt dismissal but Beth smoothed to over by saying she was ready to leave anyway. She did manage to get Jeannie's attention long enough to give and receive hugs. And all too soon, she and Callie were on their way back to Bryan.

Finally home, the exhaustion of the past twenty four hours hit Beth like a brick wall. Callie seemed tired as well, and both were ready for bed early. As promised, Beth called Will and told him of the visit. Will could hear the hurt in Beth's voice as she spoke of Jeannie's seeming indifference to her and Callie. He assured her that Jeannie just seemed to live in the moment, and she only had so much ability to attend to that moment. He then explained how much Jeannie spoke to him of her love of her momma and sister. Feeling comforted by Will's words, Beth thanked him and then wished him a good night's sleep.

Before closing her eyes, she snuggled next to the robe by her pillow. She prayed to dream of her prince tonight because tomorrow he wouldn't be with her when she had to face whatever dragons awaited her at school.

Chapter 19 Of Slaying and Shaving

Beth's neighbor, Sandra, had offered for Callie to come to her house in the morning before school. The agreement was that Beth would bring breakfast foods for both girls and then the two women felt they were even. Callie's school dismissed after the high school, so Beth was typically home by the time Callie got off the bus. Since she was unsure of what the day would bring, Sandra had agreed to keep Callie until Beth arrived.

"This is only my second week" Beth murmured when she pulled up to the school. Nothing looked out of place to her as she walked toward the building. However, when she was closer, she was astonished to find picketers at the main entrance. Several women were holding signs protesting Beth's hiring. The language was quite strong and Beth's face reddened with embarrassment. Closer to the entrance another circle was formed with more signs. These were made in support of Beth and Will. Two off duty police officers were standing between the groups.

Head held high, Beth walked determinedly passed her detractors. She couldn't help but notice that Candace was one of the women holding a particularly scathing sign. Beth looked her in the eye and said softly, "Shame on you." She continued her brisk pace to the building. When she reached the other group, cheers arose and even several students shouted their support. Beth smiled and thanked them but kept walking.

Inside, the principal, assistant superintendent, superintendent and several members of the school board were standing outside the office, obviously waiting for her. Off to the side stood Will and Richard, both with huge smiles on their faces. Not wanting to cause another scene, Beth's gaze fell on her principal and asked, "What's happening?"

He moved forward and took Beth's hand. "Beth, we are here to show our support to you and to remind the parents and taxpayers that we have the authority to hire whoever is best suited for the job. You were and are the best choice. We are, literally, standing by you." He looked at her with kind eyes. "However, if you think that this is all too much for you, we understand. We will let you out of your contract but make it very clear that this was your decision based on your family and what's best. I do hope that you decide to stay."

The other people standing there all came forward to shake Beth's hand and offer encouragement as well. Will and Richard remained separate. She accepted the support, but her eyes kept traveling back to the two men. Finally, she school board president spoke up, "Miss Thomas, Beth, the Board did not accept Will's resignation, nor do we intend to ask for it anytime soon. Our investigation has shown no impropriety on anyone's part except the school secretary who released confidential information to the public and to the media. She will be dealt with accordingly. Please accept my deepest apologies for this situation. We need good teachers to come to our smaller towns; we don't need to chase them away."

"Thank you all. I really don't know what to say. I've loved this town ever since my roommate from college brought me here so many years ago. I've always dreamed of living in a smaller town and Bryan always impressed me. I hope that I can be worthy of your expectations of me." Her eyes rested on Will as she finished her thanks.

"Well," the superintendent spoke next. "we have every reason to believe that will be so. This has created quite a sensation I must say. The public library left me a message yesterday saying that every copy of "Pride and Prejudice" was checked out. The two video stores here in town told the paper that every copy of the movie was either rented or bought as well. I had calls from two Toledo TV stations and one from Detroit wanting to interview the two of you. I will leave it up to you if you want to return those calls." He smiled, shook Beth's hand again, nodded to Will and then left.

The little crowd dispersed then, leaving only Beth with Will and Richard. "I thought I would have to slay the dragons without my prince today," she said as she reached for Will's hand.

"Not that you aren't capable," Will answered, "but I promised Callie I would be your prince and slaying dragons is part of the job description."

"I'm just here to get my picture in the paper." Richard deadpanned.

"I know better than that," Beth replied and planted a kiss on Richard's cheek. He blushed but mouthed "thank you" before he found something fascinating on the wall to go and examine.

"Where's my kiss?" Will asked in mock indignation.

"I recall something about a boycott, sir" came the saucy reply.

"Hmmph, you give me no choice than madam," Will pulled her to him smiling broadly.

"Will," Beth pleaded, "as much as I want to kiss your perfect face, there are just too many eyes. But," she lowered her voice, "if you come over tonight, say around 8:30, I will see to that beard and then to you." She arched her brow, lightly kissed his cheek and sashayed down the hall. Before she went up the steps, she turned around and said, "Thank you, Fitzwilliam."

"It was my pleasure Miss Elizabeth." Beth heard Richard gagging as she giggled running up the stairs.

By the second bell, Beth gave up trying to teach and just started answering questions about what had happened and even explained the challenges that Jeannie had to face. Several students acknowledged having special needs children in their families and a great dialogue about acceptance and honest feelings resulted. Even her class of seniors who were still tired after the prom, were full of questions and it served as a great review of Austen's work for the final that was looming a few weeks away.

Tired, but exhilarated, Beth left the school from the side entrance. Approaching her car, she saw a note attached to the wiper. She looked around and saw no one watching, so she pulled it out. In feminine, close script the note stated:

Watch out for him. He will dump you and leave you with nothing. Whatever he
promised you to get you to move here, you will never see it. Go home while you
still have some sense of pride before your heart is broken.

She stuffed the note in her purse and quickly pulled out of the driveway. Knowing exactly who placed the note there, Beth was furious and wished she knew where Candace lived She debated on whether to tell Will or not and decided that they had kept too much from each other in the past. She would show him when he came over that night.

Dinner was finished and Callie's homework completed by seven. The two took a walk around the block and then called Jeannie. The usual five minute conversation involved Jeannie excitedly explaining that she saw her first butterfly that afternoon. Callie rolled her eyes and told her sister to have fun chasing them. Beth listened a few more minutes until Jeannie abruptly said that she had something else to do.

Settling Callie in bed a little after eight, Beth sighed as she took out some papers that needed grading. She knew that Will would be on time, but she was hoping to at least get a few done before he would distract her for the rest of the evening. Sure enough, at eight twenty nine, there was a light tap on her door. Beth smiled to herself, smoothed out her blouse and answered the door.

"Is Callie in bed?" Will whispered.

"Yes, but she's a pretty heavy sleeper and her room is above us here, so if we move to the kitchen there shouldn't be a problem."

"Why would I want to go to the kitchen?" Will's suspicions were on full alert.

"I told you I was taking care of that beard tonight, sir" Beth answered pertly. She grabbed his hand and led him to the kitchen. She had placed a large bowl filled with warm water, scissors, shaving cream, a razor and several towels on the table.

"Oh, no." Will pulled his hand away from her. "I get the point. I'll go to the barber tomorrow. I promise."

"I've heard that before. Besides, this could be a very pleasant experience for you, sir" she took his hand again and led him to a chair. It was actually a small recliner that she and Callie had pushed from the living room. "See, nothing but comfort for the gentleman."

Will noticed her formal speech and at first was puzzled, but then he clued in that she was playing the chambermaid to his gentleman. He decided to play along. "Well, if you must, wench, then see that you don't cut me or there will be consequences." He admonished.

"Oh, no, sir," Beth bowed prettily, "I would never let the master be hurt." Her eyes were dancing as she prepared to get to work.

Will sat down and she pulled the lever to have him in a reclining position. He attempted to pull her down to him, but she pulled away and told him that she was a good girl and was not to be trifled with. Will laughed and played along. Beth placed a towel across Will's chest and reached for the scissors. She began cutting the beard as close to his face as she could. All the while she was humming in his ear and gently touching his face. Satisfied with her progress, she took up the towel and brushed all the hair from it to the trash.

"That was a fine beard you just cut off me, wench." Will's eyes were closed enjoying the sensation of Beth being so near. He started to rise out of the chair.

"Oh, no, Master Fitzwilliam, the lady wants it entirely off." She pushed Will back into the recliner.

"Have you ever shaved a man? You better not be using some fru fru girlie razor." He roared in mock indignation; although truth be told, he was little nervous.

"I know what I'm about, sir" Beth answered with her lips right next to Will's ear. She grabbed the shaving cream and applied a liberal amount all over his face. Taking the razor she said a little prayer and made her first pass. Several minutes later, his face was finished, but she still had his neck and under his chin to do. Very carefully, she worked while still humming and touching Will's face as gently as she could.

Finally done, she was proud of herself that she hadn't nicked him, and his face was the smooth, handsome one she remembered. Again, Will attempted to rise, but she gently pushed him back. She placed a warm towel over his face and moved behind him to massage his shoulders for a few minutes.

Will was undone. Never had a woman so intimately touched him – never. He wasn't sure how to even respond. He knew what he wanted to do, but he also knew Beth's feelings on the subject. He was quite certain that she had no idea what her ministrations were doing to him. A few more minutes passed and Beth pulled the cloth off of his face. She had a bottle of his aftershave, poured a bit on her hands and then gently let them glide all over his face his neck.

Will couldn't take it any longer. He pulled her to him in the chair and kissed her with so much passion that Beth was breathless. "You have no idea what you do to me, Elizabeth," Will growled between kisses. "A gentleman can only take so much temptation.'

Pulling her mouth away, Beth laid her head on his chest. She could feel his ragged breathing. "I don't mean to be a tease, Will. I just wanted to do something nice for you."

"Everything you do is nice." He answered honestly. "You just don't see the power you have over me." They stayed that way for several minutes until Will lifted her chin up again to taste of her lips.

Sensing that she was falling under his spell, Beth broke the embrace once more. "Maybe we should go out and sit on the porch," she smiled at him as she climbed out of his lap.

"Yeah, maybe we should." Will remained for a minute to cool himself down and to remind himself of her inexperience.

Sitting on the swing nestled against each other, Will asked her where she learned to shave a beard. Beth giggled and explained that she had worked as a nurse aide to help pay her way through college, so she had shaved many men in those four years. She admitted that Georgiana had swiped the aftershave from Will's room and brought it to school. Expressing the need to put a deadbolt on his bedroom door, Will thanked Beth for the amazing experience, but did warn her that he was a man and couldn't always guarantee he would be a gentleman.

After the third time Will heard Beth yawn, he reluctantly told her he knew he should be going. They planned out the rest of the week. Will had to turn final papers in tomorrow to Defiance and then he was free of formal schoolwork for the summer. His proposal for his final project was accepted and he would be conducting the research and interviewing process while continuing at SKAT. He also informed Beth that he would be turning Jeannie over to the other art therapist as he didn't want a conflict in interest.

Beth understood but was disappointed. Assuring her that he would look in on Jeannie whenever he could, they both felt better about the conversations that they were continuing to have together. They planned on talking tomorrow evening and then Beth and Callie would drive out to the farm on Wed for dinner and Callie's first pony ride. Admiring her handiwork, Beth held Will's face and tenderly kissed him goodnight. .

Tuesday flew by as things were settling back to normal. Several teachers stopped and introduced themselves and Beth did not have to sit alone for her lunch or her planning period. An announcement was made at the end of the day that all copies of P&P were out at the school's library and would be for the remainder of the year. Beth smiled broadly and informed her class that Jane Austen would be happy that so many people were reading her story outside of the classroom.

It wasn't until she walked out to her car to see another note waiting for her, that she realized she forgot to tell Will about the first one the night before. Her first impulse was to throw it away without looking, but then her curiosity got the better of her. The note was written in the same hand as the first.

You will rue the day you met him. He will never marry you or claim your
daughters as his own. Consider yourself warned. I am watching and waiting
for your downfall.

This time Beth was actually fearful. She now believed that this wasn't the mother, but maybe the woman herself. Will had said she was in and out of institutions. Beth hurried home and waited for Callie. Forgetting that Will would be in Defiance, Beth drove out to the farm.

Richard opened the door and was genuinely happy to see them. On second glance, he saw Beth's troubled expression and directed Callie to the kitchen where Juanita had left some goodies on the counter. Leading Beth to the living room he nervously asked, "What has happened?"

Beth handed him the first note and then the second. Richard cursed and started to pace. He looked at Beth and then back at the papers again. "This has Gloria written all over it. She must be off her medications again. I don't like this, and I know that Will will be very concerned. I want to call the police, but we'll wait until we talk to him."

"Has she ever threatened Will or any of you before?" Beth was trying to remain calm.

"Well, I'm not sure. I think Will would have told me if she did, but remember, I haven't been around nor was I the most in tune with what was going on around here." He stopped as Callie walked in with the plate of cookies. Taking one from the plate, he told her that she could run out and play on the porch or offered to put on cartoons. Beth reminded her of the rules to finish any homework, so Richard made a big deal out of letting her sit at the desk in Will's office to complete the task.

Georgiana arrived a few minutes later and was pleasantly surprised to see Beth and Callie. She took up space in the office as well, so the two were completing their homework together. Callie said she felt grown up and asked Georgiana some questions, but they actually were doing work when Beth checked.

Richard announced he was getting hungry, so Beth asked if she could see what they had on hand and whip something up. Not one to deny a home cooked meal, Richard told her to make herself at home while he had some phone calls to return. By the time Will walked through the door, a delicious smell greeted him as well as Callie jumping into his arms.

"Woah! Hey, princess! I'm happy to see you." Will gave her a hug and set her back down. "I like that kind of greeting. What smells so good?" Will held her hand and walked through the house to the kitchen.

They stopped at the door as Will took in the sight of Beth cooking at the stove and laughing with Richard. He felt a jealous twinge but then he stopped as he realized he was much more pleased to see her in his house and fitting right in with their lives. Richard and Beth turned at the same time to see him fighting with himself. Richard gave him a smirk as he knew exactly what was going through his cousin's mind. Beth raised her brow in question, but Will's expression turned softer. She picked up the spoon and said, "Hey, everybody out of my kitchen when I'm cooking!"

"Even me, momma?" Callie asked wide eyed.

"Even you, missy" Beth waved her on. Richard continued his smirk to Will as he grabbed Callie's hand.

"I could get used to you being here when I get home everyday." Will smiled and planted a kiss that deepened quickly. "What smells so delicious in here? I mean besides you."

"My famous cheesy eggs. I just kind of used what you had in the fridge. Hope you don't mind…"

"Are you kidding me? This is a fantastic ending to my day." He kissed her again.

"The eggs will burn if you keep this up.' Beth laughed.

"Then it will taste like any other day that Richards cooks."

"I heard that!" Richard yelled from down the hall.

"You were meant to." Will hollered back, not letting go of Beth.

"The two of you are like little boys" Beth admonished.

"I don't know about him," Will nodded toward the hall, "but I don't think I'm acting like a little boy." Another kiss was delivered and swept Beth away.

"Ok, Ok, you're not a little boy," Beth managed to gasp to break the spell. "and the eggs are ready, so you need to let me get to them or better yet, help me get the dinner finished.'

Will washed his hands and assisted Beth in fixing toast and finishing up the bacon. Beth had found some fruit to cut for a salad so within a few minutes, the table was set and the five of them were eating and laughing. Richard found it humorous that the once so private Will didn't even question why Beth and Callie were there unannounced. He and Georgiana decided that they would clean up and of course Callie insisted that she could help as well, so Beth asked Will if they could talk in his office.

"What is it? We were almost going for a record of three full days without somebody leaving in a huff." Will stated nervously.

"Do I look like I'm in a huff? Did I kiss you like I'm in a huff?" she laughed and pulled him down to kiss him again.

"Sorry. It's just I was so happy to see you here. It all seemed so normal, like you were meant to be here." He explained.

"Oh, you like to see me in the kitchen?" she teased.

"After last night, the kitchen is becoming my favorite room."

Beth's face reddened with the memory. "Well, I'm not here for a repeat performance. Sorry."

"But there is a reason, isn't there?' Will couldn't help but be worried.

"I came because of these." Beth answered handing him the notes. "Richard's already seen them."

"She's at it again," he said almost under his breath.

"Has she threatened you before Will?" Beth reached out for his hand.

"Every once in awhile. It's actually been a couple of years since I've heard from her. I suppose her mother got her wound up. I know that Candace was there yesterday. I'm sorry Beth. I'll call like I usually do." He moved towards his desk.

"Call her? Do you think that's wise? I mean, I don't mean to question your judgment, but won't that make her even angrier?" Beth was the one nervous now.

"Believe it or not, she just wants my attention. I usually talk to her for a few minutes, ask her if she's on her meds, remind her that we each have our lives now, and that's usually about it." Will didn't act concerned, so Beth decided to trust his instincts. "I'm glad that you didn't keep these from me. We both need to keep our promise to be open with each other."

"I meant to tell you last night, but…"

"I'm glad you didn't. I want to keep that memory separate from anything unpleasant." He smiled as Beth's face reddened again. "You will have to learn how not to blush so easily or I'm afraid people will think you're sunburned in the dead of winter."

"How do you figure that?"

"Cause I intend to make many more memories with you."

"Oh.' She felt her cheeks going hot again. Will laughed and held out his hand for her to come to him while he dialed Gloria's number.

Will was actually more upset than what he was letting on to Beth. He had never really feared Gloria's rantings before, he usually did just talk to her and that was it. His concern this time was that she hadn't contacted him; she had targeted Beth. Dialing the phone, he smiled at Beth and prayed for the best possible outcome.

"Will, I was expecting your call," Gloria practically purred into the phone.

"Then why didn't you just call me directly?" Will tried to keep his tone calm.

"Well, she's there, isn't she?"

"That's not any of your concern."

"Oh, but it is, Fitzwilliam. And don't ask me about my meds. I don't have to tell you anything that I don't want to." She was sounding a little frantic.

"You're right. You don't have to tell me anything, but I need to remind you of a few things, don't I?"

"Remind me of what?"

"We are not together anymore, remember? We both moved on several years ago. She is none of your concern. You must stop putting notes on her door, Gloria." Will's voice was firm but not too demanding.

"We moved on? We see other people?"

"Yes. And she is very important to me, Gloria. I have never lied to you, have I?"

"No"

"I wouldn't do that now, either. Gloria, we just were not good for each other, were we?"

"I wanted to be." She was sniffling.

"I know, but sometimes two people just don't work out and you have to move on."

"I guess so, but we were going to have a baby together" she was crying softly now.

"Gloria, that's what you wanted, but it wasn't to be. You must stop writing the notes. You must stop following her. You don't want to get into trouble, do you?"

"No, that would make mother very angry. I don't want that."

"Will you promise me that you will stop it now, Gloria? You never go back on your word either, right?" Will felt he had her on track.

"I am good at my word. I will leave her alone, Will, and I'll take my medicine, too" she was not crying anymore.

"That's good to hear. Your mother will be pleased."

"Will, are you going to marry her?"

He hesitated to answer because he didn't know how she would react, but he had never lied to her and he wasn't going to start now. "I hope so, Gloria. You and I deserve to be happy, don't you think?"

"Just not with each other, right?"

"Right"

"If you get married, then I know it's over with us. I wouldn't break up a marriage. That would be a terrible thing to do."

"Yes, it would. Gloria, we were good friends once, but sometimes friends have to say good bye to each other and hope the other is happy."

"That's what you want me to do now, isn't it?"

"Yes. Let me go now, Gloria. Live your own life now. I'm not worth you hanging around some teacher's car or house, am I?"

"No, I deserve better than that. She can have you, Will. Goodbye." She hung up without waiting to hear Will's reply.

Will set the phone back on the charger and ran his hand through his hair. Beth didn't know whether she should be comforted or really scared so she chose to just put her arms around him and wait for him to say something. They remained that way for quite some time.

A little into the conversation with Gloria, Will had heard a click and knew that Richard had picked up an extension. He wasn't surprised to see his cousin enter the office. "What did you think?' he asked, not even looking at Richard.

"I think she's even crazier than the last time you told me about her. I want to feel sorry for her, but she creeps me out."

"Some of it is the medication or what happens when she goes off. She must go through hell on a daily basis." As angry as she made Will at times, he couldn't forget that if she could stop it all, she would.

"That's very generous of you, Will," Richard replied. "I guess she understands that you feel that way or you would have had God knows what happen by now."

"This conversation is not making me feel better," Beth interrupted.them.

"I'm sorry," Will squeezed her hand. "I really don't think you need to worry about her. All the same, I'll call Dave at the police station and have him put the word out."

"Who's Dave?" Beth asked.

"He rents from us." Richard answers. "It's good to have a cop or two as a tenant. He's a great guy, actually. Not good at picking wives, but very good at taking care of bad guys."

"There's a story there, right?' Beth decided that she couldn't fret about this.

"We'll tell you sometime." Will smiled at her while motioning for Richard to leave the room.

"Sure, shoo me away like I'm some dog. I'll remember that next time you two do something that I have to come up with a brilliant story to deflect from all your detractors. Now I know how the press secretary feels all alone at the podium." He exited the room smiling to himself.

"He's such a funny man," Beth giggled.

"Yes, just a hoot. I never tire of the wit. A laugh a minute…" Will's sarcasm was dripping.

"I heard that!" Richard called.

"And that's all the talking you'll hear, now go do something useful with all of your amazing talents" Will was quieted by Beth's lips seeking his until it was time for her and Callie to head home.

Chapter 20 Love is In the Air

Posted on 2009-11-03

When Beth left school on Wednesday there was, again, another note. This time all it said was I'm sorry. Beth breathed a sigh of relief and decided that she was going to forget about it, but keep an eye out for anything or anyone that looked suspicious. She had about thirty minutes before Callie got off the bus, so she graded several tests and folded laundry. The last thing she wanted to do was to get behind in her responsibilities. Plus, keeping busy passed the time until she would see Will again.

To her surprise and delight, Will's truck pulled up right behind Callie's bus. Callie jumped out and ran towards Will's open arms and Beth watched with a catch in her throat as he spun her around before hugging her and racing her to the porch. Obviously Callie and Will were attaching to each other and Beth prayed again that this relationship would progress for everyone's sake.

"Shall I twirl you around too, Elizabeth?" Will challenged while laughing.

"Just to show off your muscles?" she shot back.

"No, just to show off how happy I am to see you!" His arms snaked around her waist and before Beth knew it, she was airborne and laughing as well. "I am a lucky man." Will said as he set Beth down and gave her a quick kiss. "I have four girls who I care for very much. I get kisses and hugs now all the time."

"Four girls, Mr. Will?" Callie's eyes grew wide. "Who 'sides me and momma?"

"Well," Will sat down on the swing so he wasn't towering over Callie, "there's Georgiana and Jeannie, too."

"Georgiana's your girl?"

"She's my sister, so that's pretty close." He reached over and touched her on the nose.

"Where's your momma then?" Callie walked over closer to Will.

Will hesitated and looked up at Beth. Nodding it was Ok, Will answered, "My mom and dad were in a car accident a long time ago, Callie." He spoke gently.

Callie's hand found Will's. She moved even closer and climbed up on his lap. "They went to Heaven, Will, didn't they?" Her eyes were searching his face intensely.

Will held her gaze with difficulty, "Yes, they did." He couldn't look up at Beth, but he felt her hand on his shoulder.

"My grandma is in Heaven, Will. She watches over me. Do you think your momma and daddy watch over you and Georgiana?"

"Yes, Callie, I think they do."

"I miss my Grandma." Her eyes were still intent on Will's face.

"I miss my parents."

"Momma says we just need to love each other more to make up the difference."

"Your momma is very smart." Without warning, Callie kissed Will on the cheek and wrapped her arms as far as they would go around Will's chest. He closed his eyes and allowed himself to take the comfort of this eight year old beautiful child.

"Momma can give better hugs than me." She said simply as she slid down his lap and back onto the porch.

"I don't know, Callie. That might be possibly the best hug I've ever received." Will finally glanced up at Beth to see her eyes swimming just as were his..

"Momma, I don't have any homework tonight so now I can ride the pony forever, right?" and away she flew into the house and on to whatever she found next to occupy her time.

Beth walked around and sat next to Will. She linked her arm through his and sat quietly for a few moments. Without seeing his face, she still knew that Will was touched by her daughter's affection. Quietly she said, "Would you like one of my hugs now?"

Without a word, Will turned and enveloped Beth holding her tightly. Finally, he was able to speak, "I wasn't expecting that."

"She can zing you right out of the blue. Callie really likes you Will."

"Elizabeth, you don't need to worry about Callie's affections. I treasure them, and I would never hurt her or Jeannie." He lifted her chin to look into her eyes, "Or their very smart, very huggable momma."

Richard was almost as excited as Callie about the pony ride. He had bathed, brushed and saddled Butterscotch as he was called. Due to his time in the service, he had missed so much of Seth and Georgiana's younger years. And if he admitted it, he stayed quite distant during that time as he was filled with guilt over Seth and anger over his parents' deaths. Almost every day Richard could feel he was not only physically stronger but emotionally in a much better place than he had been – maybe ever.

Will had never brought up the subject, but Richard knew that eventually Will would marry Beth and possibly have children of their own in addition to Callie and Jeannie. Richard believed that was going to happen sooner rather than later. He loved living in the house and being a part of all the activities, but he also longed for some solitude at times. Walking 'Scotch toward the house, Richard looked out over the fields and tried to picture where his home might be. He decided that he would talk to Will soon about what he wanted for his future there in Pemberville.

When Will pulled in front of Beth's house that evening a very sleepy but very happy little girl was still trying to talk about riding the pony. Will told Beth that Callie sat the horse well, whatever that meant, and he said that she could turn into quite the equestrian. Beth thought horses were beautiful but had very limited experience with them, so she wasn't sure how she felt about Callie riding.

Taking pity on his new found princess, Will carried Callie in and up to her room. He waited outside her door as Beth helped her get into her PJ's. She asked her momma if Will could pray with them, so he ducked back in and sat on the other side of her bed. Callie held both of their hands as she thanked God for her day, her new pony and her momma. She prayed as she always did for Jeannie to be good and safe especially when chasing butterflies. She then thanked God for Will and Richard and for how nice they were to her and her momma. She asked God to help Will not to miss his momma and daddy too much and for Will to be her daddy someday.

Beth's head jerked up and saw Will looking intently at her with a smile on his face. Squeezing Callie's hand, Beth quickly said "Amen" and kissed her daughter goodnight. Will received another kiss on the cheek and he hugged Callie tightly. Beth was out the door and down the steps unsure of what to say or do about Callie's prayers. She would have to talk to her daughter about what was appropriate to say around Will.

Will took his time in coming down. He knew that Callie's prayers had embarrassed Beth, but they were sweet words of encouragement to him. He had every intention of marrying this maddening woman, but he knew that they had to build a foundation and learn to work together as team just as he was working with Richard to let him take over responsibilities of the farm and the businesses. Rushing her was not the answer, but he needed to tell her how he felt and where he saw their lives heading.

By the time he walked into the Living Room, Beth was fidgeting with a pillow and attempting to look nonchalant. Will was quite amused by her flushed appearance and decided to speak to he directly. "That was another one of Callie's zingers, huh?" He said lightly as he reached for her hand.

"Uh huh," Beth wouldn't look him in the eye.

"Elizabeth, don't be embarrassed by the prayer. I have been praying something very similar."

Beth's head snapped to attention and searched his face. "You have?"

"I have prayed for you for so long; even when I didn't know you I think I was praying for you." Beth fell into his arms and held on tightly as he kissed the top of her head. She looked up at him and he down at her and no words needed to be said.

Beth was in a glorious panic, if there was such a thing. Dr. Evans had called her Thursday asking if Beth would like Jeannie to come home Saturday and stay the night in order to be with her mom on Mother's Day. Not believing it possible yet, Beth was so excited she forgot that Jeannie's room was not put together at all. She called Marie and Will and begged for help. It was agreed that any and all would be there Friday night to paint and move furniture and anything else that could be done.

Will and Richard came over that evening to move the furniture out into the hall and prep the walls for the paint. Jeannie told her momma she wanted a room like the sun, so a bright yellow was purchased along with vinyl butterflies to attach to the wall. Beth had found curtains while shopping a few weeks back, so they would be ready to be hung before leaving to get Jeannie after lunch on Saturday,

The scene Friday night was hilarious to say the least. Ever since they first met in college, Ed was protective of Beth and treated her like his kid sister. Whenever they traveled to Cincinnati to visit Beth, he always brought his tool box and was prepared for whatever "Honeydo list" Beth would have ready. Will, on the other hand, was the owner of the house and the very besotted boyfriend of Beth, so he was planning on running the show when they all came together. Within in minutes a cockfight was brewing.

Richard didn't help any by egging both men on and laughing at the results. Marie gave up on subtly talking to her husband and finally told him to do what Beth wanted and to quit trying to run the show. In spite of the fireworks, the room was painted in no time, furniture back in place and the curtains were waiting on the bed to be hung in the morning.

Beth pointedly asked Will to help her in the kitchen to fix drinks for everyone before the pizza arrived. Will knew what was coming so he took his time entering the room. "I know what you're going to say, and you're right." He said contritely.

"Oh, so not only do you know what's the best way to paint a room, you also can read my mind. There's no end to your talents." Will couldn't tell from her tone whether she was angry or just mocking him.

"It's just that I'm so used to doing things my way and ordering it to be done that I forget someone else may have an opinion."

"That's not it."

"What do you mean?" Now he was really confused.

"What happened upstairs had nothing to do with doing something your way." She arched her brow and threw him her most saucy look.

"Then what, pray tell, was it?" Will asked dryly.

"I'll tell you what it was," Richard interrupted laughing. "it was the best pissing match I've ever seen. Sorry about the language Beth, but that's exactly what it was."

Will shot Richard the best "Look" he could muster. "Hey, El Toro, don't start with me, I was just trying to stay out of the way of the two of you. How's it feel to have men fighting over you, Beth?"

Beth couldn't help but snicker but she tried her best to look affronted. "Fitzwilliam, you do not have to act so possessive of me and mine you know. Ed has known me much longer and he has been helping me do so much over the years. You two were ridiculous."

As Beth finished speaking, they could all hear Marie coming down the steps with Ed. "…you two were ridiculous." When they walked into the kitchen, Beth, Marie and Richard busted out laughing while the two men shook hands and meekly apologized to the other.

"She'll always be my Lizzybeth. I can't help myself."

"Oh for crying out loud, Ed" Marie scolded him. "You're worse with Beth than you are Rachel sometimes. You act like her father giving away the bride…" Marie shut her mouth quickly as she realized what she had said. Nobody said anything for what seemed like an hour.

Finally, Richard erupted with laughter, "Beth, I don't know what I did for entertainment until you burst into our lives. I can't think of a Friday night when I've had this much fun stone cold sober."

The doorbell rang announcing both the pizza and Callie returning from the neighbors and the remainder of the evening was spent laughing and joking and calming Beth's nerves about her daughter coming to her new home. Ed and Marie left with the agreement that they would all meet up Sunday for lunch before Beth took Jeannie back. Richard waited out in the jeep for Will to say goodnight to Beth.

"I'm sorry I was so "macho man" tonight. I just want to protect you and the girls and make everything go as smoothly as possible. I struggle with how much you mean to me, Elizabeth. I struggle with sharing you." He was holding her with his chin resting on her head.

"You don't seem to struggle with Callie around."

"That's different. You're her momma. I'd never stand in the way of that. I don't know, maybe I'm jealous because Ed seems to know you so well and you trust him so implicitly."

Beth moved away so that she could look in Will's eyes. "I have known Ed for over half of my life. He has always been there for me. He's the only man to not want something from me or have an ulterior motive. He's the closest thing to a brother or a dad for that matter, that I've ever had."

"Do you still feel that way? Do you think I have some ulterior motive or that I'm using you?" Hurt was evident in Will's eyes.

"No. No. What I'm saying is that what I feel for you is different than Ed. I'm not afraid of my feelings for him."

"You're afraid of what you feel for me?" He reached out and cupped her face, forcing her to keep looking at him.

"Sometimes I think my heart is going to burst. Or I'm going to wake up and you'll be gone again. A week ago, I hadn't even seen you yet since moving here."

"Elizabeth. I'm not going anywhere. Elizabeth, look at me" her watery eyes lifted to see his face. He could feel that she was actually trembling. "Elizabeth, I love you."

Beth melted into his embrace and kissed him with all her desire as she willed her doubts and fears to disappear. "Oh, Fitzwilliam, how I do love you, too." They stood still holding each other, both reveling in the words that had just been exchanged. Neither wanted the moment to end.

Richard had been waiting as long as he could stand it. Finally, he walked back up to the porch and peered through the screen door. "At it again," he mumbled under his breath. He walked back to the jeep, pulled out a jacket to put behind his head, and decided to doze until loverboy was ready to leave.

Dr. Evans had suggested to make Saturday as normal of a day as possible. When Beth questioned about Will being there, his smile was evident even over the phone. "If Will is a part of your life now, then Jeannie would need to get used to him being around. Does he live with you?"

"Oh, no. We are serious, but that is not an option for me." Beth blushed as she spoke.

"Well, whatever you have been doing at home during her absence, you need to continue when she's with you. Jeannie attaches very quickly to men, as I'm sure you've noticed, so I'm glad to hear that you two are serious. Well, for more than one reason actually."

For that reason, Will came along with Beth and Callie to pick Jeannie up for her first overnight in her new home. Callie was uncharacteristically quiet on the drive over. Will had given her a pad of paper and colored pencils and suggested that she draw something on the trip. After about ten minutes had passed she told Will she wanted him to see the picture. As Will was driving, it was difficult for him to see, so he asked her to tell him about the picture.

"It's me on Butterscotch." She explained.

"Oh. Are you riding him or sitting still?"

"I'm riding him. Jeannie is not allowed."

"I see. Is Jeannie in the picture?" Will's interest peaked.

"Yes. She is standing far away. She's not allowed to ride him"

"How do you know she's not allowed to ride him?"

"Because I don't want her to." Callie answered sharply. Beth was about to say something, but Will motioned to let him continue.

"Why don't you want her to ride 'Scotch, Callie?"

"'Cause she will be mean or she will hurt him."

"She'll hurt him?"

"She won't let him ride with anyone else and that will hurt his feelings." Now they were getting somewhere.

"You don't think Jeannie will want to share 'Scotch?"

"I know she won't. She won't share anything that she thinks is fun. She will start to cry and hurt herself and then nobody will be allowed to ride him." She complained.

Will stole a sideways glance at Beth who was looking down while Callie spoke. He sensed that Beth was feeling guilty about the way issues may have been handled in the past. He didn't want her to feel guilty, but he thought it was important for her to hear how Callie looks at the incidents and their outcomes. "So, if Jeannie gets upset, you think you will not be allowed to ride him either?"

"That's what happens a lot. We have to leave because Jeannie gets too upset or Momma has to take care of her and I don't get to do what I want to do 'cause I'm too little to do things by myself sometimes."

"Like ride a pony."

"Like ride a pony like Butterscotch. So Jeannie won't be allowed."

"Callie, do you get to make the rules on who rides the pony?" Will ventured.

"No. Richard or you do I guess." Callie answered honestly.

"That's right. Or if your momma is there, she decides, too."

"OK" Callie said reluctantly.

"Callie, will you trust all of us to make the best decision we can, even if you don't agree with it?" Will was attempting to bring her around.

"Well, if I don't like the decision, I don't like it."

"That's true. I'm not saying you have to like it. I'm saying that you have to trust us to make good decisions at the moment. You may not always understand them. Besides, now that Richard and I are around you and your momma more, you momma has help. Before, it was only her there to help you and Jeannie, right?"

"I guess."

"Right?" Will thought Callie needed to acknowledge that Beth was doing the best she could do under the circumstances.

"Right." Callie gave in. "So, does this mean that Jeannie gets to ride Butterscotch?"

"If that's what we're going to do on a certain day, then yes, she would get to ride him. But, I will make you a deal. You will get to ride him first, that way you will have had your turn incase something happens. Is that fair?" Will hoped it was.

"Yes. I like that. That will work, right momma?" Callie was smiling.

"It sounds good to me." Beth replied. She squeezed Will's hand and mouthed "thank you".

Jeannie was packed and ready to go when they reached her cottage. She was a little confused that "Mr. William" was with them, but Will explained to her that she could just call him Will and that he was a special friend to her momma and Callie as well. She accepted the explanation and was eager to take off to see her new home. Sam and Melissa reminded Jeannie of the rules at home and had her recite some of the things she could do if she got upset or too excited. They sent her off with a hug and encouragement to have a great weekend.

The girls were chatting and playing together in the back seat within a few minutes of leaving Ft. Wayne. Will noticed that Beth seemed edgy and although she hugged and kissed Jeannie warmly when they picked her up, she hadn't said very much since then. He took a chance to draw Beth out, "You've been pretty quiet."

"Oh, I didn't mean to be, sorry." Beth seemed flustered.

"You don't have to be sorry. I was just making an observation." He answered calmly. He glanced over at her and noticed a tear making its way down her cheek. "Elizabeth?'

She leaned over and put her head on his shoulder. "I feel like I'm a foster parent all over again getting Jeannie for the first time. I'm afraid I'll do or say something that will set her back and she won't be able to come with me again."

"Elizabeth, you know your daughter better than anyone. You are not the blame for Jeannie's behavior or for her multiple issues. She loves you very much. You will know what to do. You are her momma." He kissed the top of her head.

"I'm so glad you're here, Will." Beth sighed. "I love you."

"I will never get tired of hearing that or saying it back to you, Elizabeth." He could feel her body relax and at one point, he actually thought she may have dozed. The girls were sharing stories and drawing pictures the remainder of the journey. Will let himself imagine that times like this would be everyday experiences with Beth and the girls when he and Beth were married. After the confessions of love last evening, Will believed that he couldn't wait for very long to bring Beth to the home where she belonged – Pemberville Farm.

The truck was barely in park and Jeannie was clamoring to get out of the backseat. Callie was leading her on as the two girls ran up to the porch and impatiently called for the grown ups to hurry it up. Laughing at their enthusiasm, Beth ran to the door while Will grabbed the suitcase and the art supplies from the back.

Callie led Jeannie through the entire house, saving Jeannie's room for last. When she opened the door, Jeannie let out a shout of joy, "Momma, this is my room! It's a sunshine room! All my things are here, too. This is my room, momma!" She ran back to Beth and hugged her tightly. "Thank you, momma for my sunshine." She continued dancing around the room laughing and touching everything.

Will noticed that Callie was standing by watching her sister's excitement with the same expression as Beth. They were both happy to see Jeannie so happy and a little bit proud, too, of having accomplished decorating the room to Jeannie's specifications. Though not a drop of Beth's blood coursed through Callie, Will was constantly struck by how much she favored her adoptive mother. And though she had just spoken of her frustration with her sister, it was obvious how much Callie loved Jeannie.

In no time, the two girls were out in the backyard playing on the swingset and chattering away. Beth stood at the back door watching her children. She seemed very far away from Will though only a few feet separated them. Suddenly she turned around with a fresh stream of tears streaking down her face. This time, however, she was also smiling. Will was puzzled as she practically leapt into his arms.

"Oh, Will, my girls are here and you are here; everything's the way it's supposed to be. I don't know if I've ever felt this much happiness and peace in my life. You have brought this to me. You have brought us home." She held on to him tightly as she raised her face to his. "Last January was the darkest time of my life. Even losing my mother was not as full of despair as leaving Jeannie and letting you go. I never dreamed my life could have this happiness ever again."

Will was choking back tears himself at Beth's words. He, too, had believed his life was doomed to be solitary and duty bound to the remainder of his family. Beth had no idea what her return to his life had brought to him. In those moments together, Will vowed to himself that he would do all in his power to continue to bring Beth, her daughters and his family the happiness and security that they all deserved.

Chapter 21 Celebrations

Posted on 2009-11-07

Twenty four hours seemed to fly by and they were back on the road to Ft Wayne to deliver Jeannie back to SKAT. Overall the day had been a success and Jeannie only became anxious as they were finishing the meal that afternoon. She had thoroughly enjoyed eating her all her favorites that Beth cooked the night before. Will had also commented that her culinary talents assured him he was right in loving her. Beth was pleased Will seemed so at ease with her family and that his sense of humor matched her own.

The church service was much better than the previous week. Georgiana was with them and Beth made a mental note to talk to Richard on his absence. She sensed there was so much more there than he had even told Will, and she hoped that they could build a friendship that was based on more than teasing Will. Trying to concentrate on the sermon, she still was amazed and grateful for the peace she was feeling.

Jeannie always loved seeing Ed and Marie so the beginning of the Mother's Day meal was lighthearted. Justin and Seth had just come home for the summer on Friday, so Justin and Rachel were also at the luncheon in honor of their mom. Seth had begged off to stay with Richard and "talk farm business" which Will found quite amusing. It had been over 15 years since Will had even acknowledged Mother's Day and Georgiana had no memory whatsoever of the fun the Stephen's family used to have on that day.

When their drinks arrived, Ed stood up and said he wanted to give a toast to the two best Moms he had ever known, excluding his own mom. Justin and Rachel bragged for a minute or two about Marie and then told Beth how much fun the girls were to be around and they were glad that Beth's dream to be a mom gave them all Jeannie and Callie to love. Will and Georgiana exchanged glances and Will squeezed her hand under the table.

Callie looked over at the two and said, "Will's momma is in Heaven with Grandma today. He misses her, don't you Will?"

Beth bristled, but Will looked at Callie and said, "Yes, Georgiana and I do miss our mother. She would have liked you and Jeannie. She loved little girls very much. Thank you for remembering my mom today, Callie." Callie got up and walked over to Will. She gave him a hug and then hugged Georgiana as well.

Will looked over at Beth, "Zinged again." He said, and smiled. Beth nodded and the table started talking at random again. Marie watched the interactions carefully and would later tell Ed and her children that from that meal together, she knew Will and Beth would be a team that could face anything thrown at them.

Fighting back the tears, Beth hugged Jeannie goodbye and watched as her oldest ran back to Sam and Melissa to tell them of her new room. She never looked back at Will, Beth or Callie. They could still hear her as they left the cottage for the car. Will reminded Beth that the overnight had been a huge success and that he wouldn't be surprised if Jeannie would come home for the long Memorial Day weekend. Beth smiled absently at his encouragement. The pain of leaving her daughter again after having her home was fierce, but unlike January, Beth could had faith that her daughter was improving and that all of their lives were stabilizing and molding into a family she never thought was possible.

The next two weeks raced by as Beth was preparing her students for finals while attempting to keep the seniors engaged in any academic activity. Callie made several friends in the neighborhood so many evenings little girl giggles could be heard at several locations. Will came over most evenings and without consciously doing so, they established a weekend routine of Friday family night, Saturday date night and Sunday they had lunch with Marie and Ed along with whichever young adult felt like coming. Richard joined in the Friday festivities and on the Saturday before Memorial Day, he stayed at Beth's with Callie and Jeannie so the date night could happen.

Although the weather was a little cool, the holiday weekend was another success for the group. As Will promised, Butterscotch's first ride was Callie and then Jeannie had her turn. Some negotiations had to take place to get Jeannie off, but there was no big scene. On Monday, Juanita had invited all of them to their house for a cookout, so Beth and the girls were treated to authentic Mexican dishes coupled with the grilled hotdogs and hamburgers. Again it was difficult to tell Jeannie goodbye on Monday evening, but Will was there to comfort Beth and talk to Callie as well.

Graduation week brought the flurry of activity that was always bittersweet. Exams were graded and the seniors rehearsed for the big day. Georgiana was to play a flute solo and Rachel was class President so she had a speech to prepare. Beth couldn't help but chuckle when she and the girls walked up to the wrap around porch just like last year but this time for Rachel's party. For some reason, Will told Beth they would meet there, so she and the girls decided to walk the few blocks.

De ja vu set in as Jeannie reached for the balloons and Beth discouraged her from grabbing them all. Ed met them at the door and the girls raced for the drink fountain and the cake. After receiving many hugs from Marie and Ed's family Beth felt like someone was watching her. She looked around, and there stood an incredibly tall, curly haired man leaning up against the fireplace.

Beth felt her heart jump as she approached Will. Extending her hand she said, "Hello, Mr. Stephens."

Will's eyes were dancing and he couldn't help the corners of his mouth from turning up, "Good to see you again, Ms. Thomas."

Their audience burst out laughing at their antics and Will played to the crowd by giving Beth a kiss and taking a bow. Richard was standing in the corner and remarked that the scene was not how it had been described to him last year, and he was disappointed that the reenactment didn't include the fireworks. "Although," he added, "I believe this is the version that Will wished had occurred that day." Ed slapped him on the back in agreement while Will took it all in with good humor. Several of the friends and family remarked on the changes in the couple while the girls played nicely outside without incident.

By obligation, Will had to attend a few other parties, so after Beth helped Marie get the house back to normal, she and the girls walked back home. A student of Beth's named Hannah was coming over to stay with the girls while Beth attended Georgiana's party. Callie was not happy to be missing the grown up event, but when Hannah arrived full of ideas for a fun evening, she stopped complaining and Beth could hear them all in the back yard.

Smiling as she remembered the borrowed dress of the year before, Beth slipped on the elegant one she had purchased while shopping with Georgiana last weekend. The cream sheath was covered with black lace and accented with an empire waistline. At Will's request, Beth kept her hair down in curls. She walked out back to say goodbye to the girls and was coming around to the front when Will pulled up to the curb.

She almost didn't' recognize him because he was not in his customary truck. He was driving a red vintage mustang convertible with the top down. "Are you kidding me?" Beth laughed as she waited for Will to come around and open her door. "My hair will be a nest by the time we get to Mason's."

"I doubt that, madam," Will smiled and handed her a large silk scarf. "This was my dad's car. I think it rivaled my mom in his affections. She would wear this scarf when they'd go for drives. Very rarely were the kids allowed in it. Dad said it was their special date car. I thought tonight would be a great night to start the tradition again."

"You are a very romantic man, Fitzwilliam." Beth kissed him lightly before getting into the passenger's side.

Will ran to other side and climbed in. Before starting the engine, he turned to her. "I love it when you call me Fitzwilliam. I know when I hear that name, I am loved again. My mom never called me by my full name when she was angry like most parents do. She loved my name, obviously, and to hear it said again by you is a wonderful thing."

"Is that the reason why you call me Elizabeth, because it's my full name?" she reached up to caress his face.

Will caught her hand it brought it to his lips, "Probably. It's not that I dislike Beth, it's just that from the moment Ed explained a little of your life to me last year on their porch, and I watched you with the girls, I just believed that you were my Elizabeth."

"And there you go again with the romance. I love you, my Fitzwilliam. I could sit here and kiss you all night, but you have a sister who needs to be celebrated." She did, however, shower him with a few more before Will begrudgingly started the car.

Driving leisurely through town, Will's arm was around Beth as she could sit next to him in the bench seat. The scarf secured her hair, and Beth loved the night air stirring her senses. She laughed and said, "I feel like it's 1960 and we're cruising to the sock hop or something."

"It is kind of fun, isn't it?" Will agreed. He pulled into the parking lot but made no move to get out of the car. Beth raised an eye brow in question. "I don't want to go in there and play host tonight. I want to dance with you and sit with you and maybe even make out with you all night." He had a devilish grin.

"Hey, I'll have students in there, mister, so you'll be the perfect gentleman." Beth shook her finger at him laughing.

"I knew I shouldn't have announced my plans, I should have just sprung to action." Will admonished himself while observing Beth's amused expression. "You are so tempting. You have no idea how tempting."

"Do I tease you, Will? I don't mean to if I do. I'm not trying to frustrate you are lead you on in any way." She bit her lip and looked at him with a worried expression.

"That's the problem." He answered honestly. 'I know that you are not playing games with me, that you truly believe in your convictions. Somehow that only serves to make me want you more." He was holding her hand and gazing straight into her eyes. "I knew that once I said I loved you, I would struggle with wanting to be near you in everyway. I just didn't know how difficult the struggle will be."

"I'm sorry, Will. I don't want to cause you to feel rejected or uneasy with me. And I do appreciate that you respect my wishes. I guess it seems silly for a woman as old as I am to possess this belief." She looked down at their hands entwined as she spoke.

"Elizabeth," Will lifted her chin to force her to look at him. "You are not using your body as a bargaining chip or as some sort of prize for me to win. You have opened yourself to me in every possible way to make me feel loved and accepted. I have never known this level of intimacy with any woman. Though I must admit to many cold showers and much teasing from Richard." he chuckled, "I will wait for you and promise to remain a gentleman with your help."

Beth sighed in relief as Will got out and escorted her into the restaurant.

The party was already in full swing by the time they entered. This year, Marie's family along with Beth, were seated at the main table. The kids were up and dancing and Ed was grousing again about the music having no beat or making any sense. An old disco number came on and Richard dragged Beth out on the floor. Halfway through, he was laughing in Beth's ear, "I'm getting daggers thrown at me by my cousin."

"I believe that's because he wanted the first dance." Beth replied shaking her head at him.

"It's not my fault that stick is too far …oh, sorry Beth. He could be out here if he wanted to. Besides, I know better than to claim you for a slow dance. I don't think I can take him anymore."

The song finished and they walked back to the table. Will was not there and Beth figured that he was off talking to someone. A second later, the Foreigner song that had played last year began and Will was at her side with his hand extended. "I believe they are playing our song, Miss Elizabeth."

"I believe you are right, Fitzwilliam." She allowed him to pull her up and guide her to the floor. Unlike last year, Beth did not giggle at Will's seriousness, but rested her head on his shoulder and let the music and the movements and the nearness of the man she loved take her to another place and time. She heard nothing else but his heartbeat and the words to the song.

Suddenly Will was singing softly in her ear, "In my life, there's been heartache and pain. I don't know if I can face it again. Can't stop now, we've traveled so far, to change this lonely life. I want to know what love is. I want you to show me. I want to feel what love is. I know you can show me."

Beth held on to him tighter and listened to him serenade her. He sang so softly when they were in church, she really had no idea what his voice was like. It was a rich baritone and he carried the tune nicely. All too soon, the music stopped and they had to separate. Beth's eyes were shining as she looked up in Will's love filled face. "That was amazing. You have a gorgeous voice. Why don't you sing out more?"

"I don't know. But I'll sing to you whenever you ask. I think I'd do anything you ask." He admitted freely.

"That's dangerous information my friend. I may use that against you someday." Beth laughed.

"I doubt it." He replied and they took their seats never letting go of each other's hand.

"You two are like lovesick teenagers," Richard stated drolly.

"And you are jealous." Will poked him in the shoulder.

"Yeah. A little bit." He got up and walked toward the bar. Beth raised her brow in questions but before she could say anything, Will said, "I know, I've got it." And he made for his cousin.

Beth started to get up as well, but Marie stopped her. "Let them talk a little. I know everyone is happy for you two, no doubt about it. But even Ed and I have felt a little twinge. Oh, don't look so surprised, Beth. We've been together for over 20 years. It's hard work to keep the spark going that you two have burst into a flame.

"I'm not trying to make anyone uncomfortable. Marie, I've been lonely for so long…"

"Beth, you do not need to apologize. You deserve your Mr. Darcy. We mortals will just enjoy watching you two to see how this will all play out." She patted Beth on the hand and then they sat in silence. Beth's eyes kept wandering over to where Will and Richard were talking.

Will didn't know what to think of Richard's comment or his behavior. He thought there had been some distance lately but Will had chalked it up to Richard getting used to the civilian life. Now he was wondering if something else was brewing. When he reached the bar, Richard was downing a shot and requesting another.

"Oh, now why did you have to come over here, Will?" Richard looked a little embarrassed.

"We were worried about you."

"It's nothing. I'm just being – I don't know what I'm being."

"Richard, is something going on I need to know about?" Will was worried that Richard had developed feelings for Beth.

"What?" Richard looked confused for a minute then grasped Will's meaning. "No. Good Lord, no, Will. I swear. It's just….I don't know it's just…We were always in the same boat, you and I. We were loners for the most part. I always depended on you to be the lone wolf with me. Now I know that's not the case. I'm glad for you, really. I just think I'm drifting a bit…Ok, this is crazy we're at a party. Go back to your lady, Will." He forced a smile.

"I will not." Will answered adamantly. "You are more than a cousin, more than a friend; you are my only brother. I don't want to see you "adrift" as you put it. Richard, you are vital to this family. You are indispensable to me. If you had not made us all talk this winter, I shudder to think where we all would be.

"In a little over two months, our house is going to be very quiet. I don't know what I'm going to do without teenagers running all over the place. The only upside is that I can wear my boxers around if I want to." He chuckled.

"As if you would." Richard retorted. "I guess that's some of it too, you know. I just got home, and now they're both gone. I missed it all, Will. I missed it all."

"But now we both get to live our lives a little bit, Rich. In my wildest dreams I never figured to meet a woman like Elizabeth. Now I'm full again. Maybe for the first time, I don't know. When you least expect it, Richard, someone will come your way."

""OK, OK, that's enough of that. Get back there before the whole blooming family is analyzing me. I'm fine. Feeling a little stupid, but I'm fine. We'll talk later, OK?"

"Yes we will. Tonight even."

"Yes, right after you take your nightly cold shower. " Richard laughed as Will sighed and walked back to Beth.

The rest of the night was terrific and Georgiana felt the love of her family and friends. Due to Seth's gift last year, she was expecting a car from Will, so she was surprised when he handed her a box before they left at the end of the party. "What's this?" she questioned her brother.

"Open it and see."

She untied the simple ribbon and opened the hinged box. Inside was a beautiful gold pendant swirling around gemstones of all different colors. She looked at it and then Will, "It's beautiful, Will."

"I took the stones from Mom's mother's ring and had it set in the pendant. We had just bought it for her the last Christmas. She would have been so proud of you, Georgie. Dad, too. You were their beautiful baby. The last of the brood Dad insisted. You are an amazing young woman." Georgiana flung herself into Will's arms and Richard mouthed "well done" to his cousin.

"You never cease to amaze me, Fitzwilliam." Beth exclaimed when they were parked outside her house.

"What did I do now?" He teased while twisting her hair around his fingers.

"That gift for Georgiana. She will always treasure the thought as well as the pendant."

"She was my special gift, Elizabeth. I don't know if I would have made it without any of my family surviving. She made me keep going. Now she's going to be leaving. It's the right thing, the natural thing for her to go now and get the amazing life she deserves, but I will miss her terribly. Richard is feeling it, too. That's what the little bar talk was about earlier."

"I see," Beth snuggled closer to Will and held him tightly. "I'll never leave you, Fitzwilliam. You have my word and my heart." She kissed him warmly.

"I needed to hear that, thank you." They remained that way for a long time, in spite of Beth's desire to not give the neighbors anything to talk about. He needed her comfort and assurance that night, and she was going to make sure that he felt her love.

Will dragged himself up the stairs cursing himself for telling Richard they would talk tonight. He was well aware of all activities on tap for the next day, and he didn't want to be sleepwalking through it. However, something was definitely eating at his cousin, so he needed to pay attention. After the shower, which in fact was a little cool, he padded down the hall to Richard's room and knocked softly.

'Will, I'm downstairs," he heard Richard call from the den. 'I've got coffee ready."

"It will take as long as that, will it?" Will asked as he reached the den and accepted the steaming mug.

"I don't know. I just know that I have a bit of a buzz going and I need to wake up a bit."

"Did you drive home that way?" Will couldn't help the concern in his voice.

"No. No. Seth drove. Nothing to worry about there my friend." Richard yawned and took another sip. "Will, if we're this bad when she graduates high school, what will be doing when she gets married?"

"I can't even think about that. But maybe we'll be preoccupied with our own families by then." He watched for Richard's reaction.

"Hmm. I would need to do a lot of growing up for that to happen."

"Excuse me?"

"Will, I'm not that oblivious to myself. I may have commanded military men, but I have no command over my own life right now." He sighed.

"What do you mean? Richard, you have just spent six months pushing yourself to be able to walk again and to rebuild your life. Why are you being so hard on yourself?" Will was becoming genuinely concerned.

"I don't know, Will. Sometimes I feel like I don't belong here at all. Other times I find myself looking across the fields imagining where my house would be. Maybe I'm having my mid life crisis a few years early."

"Are you sure that's all? Richard, you really have been through a lot. Maybe…"

"Maybe I should see somebody?" Richard cut him off.

"Well,,," Will didn't know what else to say.

"Maybe I should. I just feel like I don't have anything to show for the last twenty years of my life except some very wicked scars and few medals. I'm not feeling sorry for myself. I'm just wondering where I fit in now."

"Richard, although your folks settled here, this was never home to you. I know that. But we want you here; we need you here." Will took a breath and continued, "However, if you don't want to be here, for whatever reason, don't stay out of some convoluted sense of duty or that you owe us. That's not how it should be."

"But that's why you're here, isn't it? You had no desire to work this farm. You were going to get your PhD. You were going to explore your art and all sorts of things that Bryan, OH couldn't do for you. You gave up everything. I gave up nothing. My life just continued on. I just blew in when I felt like I could handle you all. What is that?" He said bitterly.

"Look, I admit that over the past 15 years I've had my moments. But I regret nothing. This is my home; this is my heritage. Sure, Lizzy and Charles said that they were going to stay here with dad and mom, but they were still very young, especially Charlie. Who knows what would have happened in a few years. I would not have let dad work this by himself, just as he didn't allow his father to. Your dad decided on his own to come back. He was ready to farm and to settle down after all the years of roaming all over the world with you and your mom. You've never had any roots, Richard. That must be difficult. I knew that this is where I belong. You have to find your place. I hope it's here, but if it's not, you know that we will be happy for you."

Richard sat quietly reflecting on what Will said. He was right; Richard never felt at home anywhere. He always felt that everything was temporary and when his parents died, that belief was solidified. "I guess that now that I'm doing so much better physically, I need to take care of few other things." He said softly, not looking at Will.

"Whatever you need to do, Richard, I will be right there, too. And you know, Elizabeth will be, too. I'm not going to wait too much longer, Rich. I know that she's who I'm supposed to be with for the rest of my life. I just need to make it official. She and the girls are my future. But we want you here if that's what you want. I'm not saying that all you need is a good woman, but I tell you, she's changed my life and I'm not waiting around."

"And one can only take so many cold showers." Richard's wicked smile broke the seriousness that hung in the room.

"Yes and I'm about at my limit."

Will and Richard were both struggling to stay awake during the graduation ceremony. The gymnasium was crowded and quite hot which didn't help their dilemma. Georgiana's solo was beautiful and Rachel's speech paid tribute to her parents and to the small town that provided so much for her. Beth saw Marie dap at her eyes several times while Ed held tightly to his wife's hand. Will caught Georgiana's eye several times and the two smiled each time, but Will was struggling when she was announced to come forward to receive her diploma.

As she turned around, she looked up to where her family was standing and blew a big kiss their way. Seth and Richard whistled and cat called loudly while Will just shook his head. Beth couldn't help but laugh at the obvious difference in temperaments and personalities of the small family. Callie and Jeannie managed to sit through everything. They kept moving around between the three men who gladly indulged them with candy and willing laps to sit upon.

Kissing Will goodbye, Beth left the gym with the girls to take Jeannie back to Ft. Wayne. She would stay up there for the next two weekends due to special activities that she didn't want to miss. Dr. Evans indicated that he thought Jeannie was ready to come home for a week, so they planned on the third week of June. Although school would be out, Jeannie would continue to receive her therapies as well as tutoring to not lose the skills she had acquired during the year.

On the way home, Callie asked her mom when they would be going to their special cabin in the Hills. Beth explained that she wasn't sure they were going this year due to the money they had to spend to move. She took a cut in pay to move to Bryan and the absence of teaching summer school made her prospects dim for any type of vacation this year. Explaining the situation honestly, Beth told her that they would make sure to have fun around their new town. Callie was silent the rest of the way home, and Beth felt she had let her daughter down, but she had to be realistic with their finances.

They arrived back home a little after seven and after baths and doing some laundry, Beth called Will to talk around eight thirty. His weary voice answered on the other end. She wanted to talk to him about her feelings with the vacation, but she didn't want him to offer to pay for anything, so she wasn't sure how to proceed. Topics like this were still difficult for Beth to share with Will. She knew that he had never experienced the lack of money, and she knew his generous heart would think nothing of paying for them to go anywhere she wished to go.

Instead, she asked about the continued celebration and Will described Georgiana's excitement over her new car. Without meaning to, he highlighted their differences in lifestyles by talking about how grateful he was not to have to clean up the party the last evening and that they just relaxed by the pool for the remainder of the day. He mentioned the discussion with Richard and all the while Beth remained silent except for a few uh huhs and I sees.

"Elizabeth," Will's tone changed, "I may be tired, but I can tell when something's wrong. I'm already out the door, I'll be there in about fifteen minutes."

"No, Will, you don't need to do that. It's already passed nine. It's nothing, really. I guess I'm tired too."

"It's more than that. Did something happen with Jeannie on the ride over?"

"No. Not Jeannie." She sighed. Everyone always assumed her only issues were with Jeannie. "Jeannie's not the only issue I have in my life, Will"

"I know that. I didn't mean to imply she was. What is it? Maybe I can help." He felt the sting of her reply but tried not to take offence by it.

"I'm sure that you would. That's part of the problem." Beth was getting irritated and she didn't really know why. Intellectually she knew that Will couldn't help that he had money and that she did not, but somehow she was irked about it.

"Why would me helping you be a problem? Is something wrong with the house or your car or something?"

"No, I'm just being a grouch, OK? Sometimes I get grouchy about things."

"I've never noticed that before." By this time Will was in the truck and driving a little faster than he should. He was concerned with how the conversation was going.

"Well, you think I'm this little engine that could who just keeps fighting and always has a smile and a spunky attitude." She knew she was being catty, but the words still spilled out.

"I do not think that." He answered more sharply than he wanted to.

"Will, I don't expect you to understand every little thing that might upset me. And I certainly don't expect you to help me with every little problem or concern that I may have."

"Well, what is it? Is it a problem, concern or something else? You're not giving me much to work with here." His frustration was clearly starting to show.

"You're not listening to me. This is just something I have to work through. It's really not that big of a deal. It's not an emergency by any means." She sighed and wished she had never picked up the phone to call him in the first place.

"I hate this."

'Hate what?" she asked anxiously.

"I hate that you shut me out when you are upset. I can only get through to you if I'm right there, right in front of you. You just put the walls up and that's it."

"Will, you're tired. I'm tired. I should never have called you to begin with. I should have just worked this out on my own and been done with it." She was rubbing her head that was now throbbing.

"You were right to call me. No matter what is bothering you. It's important to me to be there for you. That's what couples do, right? They help each other. They solve things together."

"But this is just a stupid issue. I was feeling sorry for myself, that's all. It was just stupid."

"Why are you feeling sorry for yourself? What happened?" He realized that they were back to the beginning of the conversation and had not gotten anywhere. "Elizabeth?"

"Ok, you want to know, here it is. I was feeling bad because with all the moving expenses and not being able to teach summer school, I can't afford to go down to the cabin this summer or to do anything, really. Now, wasn't that stupid?"

"No. it's not stupid. I'm sorry, I didn't even think about the additional expenses of moving. I just assumed that since you sold your house, you had what you needed."

"I do have what we need. I'm trying not to get into that money so I can have enough to put a down payment on a house when I find one.'

"What do you mean? Why would you want to buy a house?"

"I don't want to rent forever."

"No. I wouldn't think so, but…we need to talk about this." Will couldn't understand why she wasn't thinking ahead to the two of them being together on his farm.

"Will, this is something that has to do with my finances. Not yours."

"I didn't think that you were talking about mine. But regardless, I was planning on doing something this summer like we did last year, why not let me treat?" As far as he was concerned, this was a quick and obvious solution.

"That's exactly what I don't want."

"Why?"

"You do not need to pay for my vacation"

"But if we're together, who cares who pays for it?"

"Says the man with the money." She angrily retorted.

"You're mad at me because I have money?' he was incredulous.

"I never said I was mad at you. I said I was feeling sorry for myself. I knew that if I mentioned it to you, you would offer to pay for anything I wanted. I didn't want that. I want to be independent in this area. I don't want to sponge off of you."

"Elizabeth, you are not sponging off of me. How many nights have I had dinner with you at your house? You paid for all of that. You're paying all of your bills; not me." He protested.

"And you are paying for Jeannie to be at SKAT. That's the truth and you know it." She said quietly. "You should not be obligated to pay for anything else."

"Obligated?" now he was getting wound up. "I do not feel obligated to do anything when it comes to you. I love you. With love comes the need to protect and assist. At least to me that's what comes with it. We've had this conversation before. I don't like rehashing things."

Beth sighed again. She was not making herself clear because she didn't even know why she was so upset. For the life of her, she couldn't understand why he got testy over her wanting to buy a house. He should have figured that she wouldn't want to rent forever, where did he think she and girls would live when the lease was up…

And then it hit her. He's planning on us living with him. Then she admonished herself for thinking that. They had only been together four weeks. Surely Will would not be thinking that far ahead. Her mind was racing. She didn't hear a thing Will was saying.

"Elizabeth? Elizabeth? Are you there? Did you hang up on me? Elizabeth?" Will was in a panic. She finally heard his pleas but before she could answer he was swearing into the phone, "For the love of God, Elizabeth, this is ridiculous! Don't shut me out! We should be able to discuss all of this calmly."

"Will," she was almost whispering with a faint smile beginning on her face. He was still ranting into the phone. "Will" she repeated again.

'WHAT?!" he yelled finally.

"Where are you?"

"I'm pulling up to your house. Don't you dare not let me in…" He heard a click. "Oh my Lord, she hung. She hung up on me! What is she thinking…" He slammed the door of truck closed and was marching up to house. Without warning, he heard the screen door slam and Beth practically jumped on top of him. He was caught off guard and they both tumbled onto the grass.

'Are you alright?" she landed on top of him and was holding onto his face kissing him all over. "I'm sorry, Will. I thought you saw me coming. I'm sorry. Did I hurt you? Oh, darling I'm so sorry. Will? Will, say something!" She realized finally that she was on top of him and moved to get off when he caught her arm.

"Will, did I knock the breath out of you? Please, you're scaring me now."

Finally, he released his grip on her arm and exhaled deeply. "Did you play for Notre Dame or something? Woman, you could tackle the entire defensive line ." He was smiling as he spoke and was enjoying the view of her looking down into his face.

"Did I hurt you?" She bent down again and was planting butterfly kisses across his face.

"Only my pride. Wait" he stopped her again from getting up. "I think I'm seeing stars or something."

"Fitzwilliam, don't tease me. I was just so happy when it finally dawned on me why you got so upset with me, and I got so excited, I just wanted to be in your arms, and I just flew down the steps, and…"

"Elizabeth, what are you going on about? Why are you smiling and laughing when five minutes ago I thought you were going to tell me to take a hike, or something much worse." He decided that the temptation was too great to remain as they were, so he gently rolled her to the side and they both sat up. "Ooo," he grimaced. "That's going to leave a mark."

"Where?" Beth asked looking him over.

"Never you mind. Let's just say I may look like an orangutan come tomorrow morning."

"Oh," she said, then "OH" when he caught her meaning. She started to chuckle as she kissed him again.

"I don't" kiss "see where" kiss "my bruised" kiss "butt could be" kiss "such a source of humor" kiss "madam." By then they were laughing as they helped each other up off the grass and limped onto the porch.

A few minutes later when they were calmed down and snuggled on the swing, Will began again, "What did you mean when you said that you got excited when it dawned on you what I meant? You lost me."

Beth blushed and shook her head, "Don't make me say it, Will."

"Seriously, say what?"

"About buying a house." She thought he would catch on.

"No, I don't understand why you want to buy a house when you should know that I …" he stopped himself. He had promised not to push. Then he looked into her face and saw that she was absolutely smiling ear to ear and if it was possible, absolutely glowing. "When you should know that I want you and the girls in my house. To stay. Forever." He punctuated the last words with more kisses.

"That's why I got so excited. You really do a see a future with us, don't you?"

"Are you daft, woman? I thought I had made that perfectly clear a year ago when I swallowed my pride and danced with the only beautiful woman in the world for me."

There was no need to talk anymore. Will was making plans for the day to officially ask Beth to be his wife and Beth was dreaming of the day when she would be home with him in Pemberville. No more vacation or money talk was mentioned. They were of one mind now – to be together.