Section I, Next Section
Act I Scene I
Author's Note: Based on the movie "When Harry met Sally".
Characters stolen shamelessly from Jane Austen and Nora Ephron
External (Ext.): Beautiful vivacious brunette driving old, battered Ford Pinto. Heading into downtown Chicago. Bopping head to upbeat melody that is playing on car stereo.
Said to the man at the railroad station I want a ticket just for one.
He said, "well if you insist where you wanna go, Miss?"
Oh destination anywhere east or west, I don't care.
You see, my baby don't want me no more.
This old world ain't got no back door.
He looked at me with a funny face and said,
"Are you sure you wanna go just any place?"
I said "If you've ever loved someone the way I love that man surely,
Mister Ticket Agent, you should understand destination anywhere, .......
Elizabeth Bennet pulled up in front of the formidable building that is the University of Chicago, located just outside Downtown Chicago. As was discussed upon, she would be taking a her best friend's boyfriend clear across to Boston. Having just graduated one week ago with a degree in Journalism, Elizabeth was feeling quite high and mighty, indeed.
She turned left onto the neighboring street and saw her best friend in a tight liplock with her boyfriend. Elizabeth stared for a minute, then turned her head to allow the privacy that was needed. After a couple of minutes of staring at herself in the rear view mirror and watching the traffic that passed by, she cleared her throat. When that didn't work, she honked the horn.
Her friend peeked over her boyfriend's shoulder and waved to Elizabeth, "Hello Lizzy, we've, ah, well, been waiting for you. Lizzy, this is William."
Elizabeth nodded her greetings and informed him that the trunk of the car was open for his luggage. "Hi Summer. Don't worry about him, he'll be fine," Elizabeth cracked.
William gave Summer yet another long and languorous kiss, making even Elizabeth blush the brightest crimson. She honked the horn yet again. Summer sneaked yet another kiss as he got into the car and cried shamelessly as Elizabeth took off; not looking back.
'Cause if it did, it would swing both ways
And we'd go back to happy yesterday's
When I loved him tenderly and all he needed was me.
As I stared through the window of the train,
I thought I heard my baby call my name.
But it was just the conductor saying
"Which stop would you prefer?"
While on Lake Shore Drive, William finally ventured to speak to his driver. "Have you known Summer long?" he asked in a clipped British accent.
"Yeah, we roomed together freshman year. How long have you known her?"
"We started seeing each other at the beginning of term, nice girl that one. Great legs."
"Oh, is that all she is to you, a pair of great gams? Are you always a pig?"
He shot her a condescending look. "Oh, so now I'm a pig, am I?"
She wrinkled her cute pug nose at him, "Yes, you are a pig. Thank you." She kept her grasp firmly on the steering wheel, although a slap across his pigheaded face is where she would've like to put it. He looked at her profile noticing how very cute she was.
About an hour outside of the city, he ventured to make small talk again. "You know you are a very attractive woman."
"Are you coming on to me?"
"No. I just mentioned that you are a very good-looking woman." She pulled the car into the parking lot of a small diner.
"Well you can't just say that. You are dating my best friend. How would she like it if she found out that three hours away from her, you are already hitting on another woman."
"Wait. I'm not hitting on you. I just mentioned that you were attractive."
"But it's out there now."
William was confused. "What is out there?"
She moved her hands into a wide circle indicating to him a huge space. "This -- that you -- you know like me."
"I never said that. I said that you were attractive. Where did you get that I like you? Right now, you are annoying me."
She headed into the diner. "Yeah, but next thing you'll be asking to sleep with me." William stopped short as the diners collectively stopped talking at the same time. Elizabeth looked around the room to her dismay, and went on to the nearest empty booth.
"I never said I wanted to sleep with you. But…"
"But… It's there isn't it. Always there. Men always want to sleep with women. Right?"
William was surprised by this woman's forthrightness. It was refreshing, to say the least. "Yes, that is true. Men and woman cannot be friends, because men will always want to have sex with them."
Elizabeth was astonished, she wasn't quite heading in that direction. "That is the stupidest thing I've ever heard…" A tall waitress came up to them and asked for their order. William ordered cheeseburger, rare. Fries and a coke.
"I'll have the chef salad, with tuna on the side. Also for desert I'll have the apple pie a la mode -- heated. With strawberry ice cream instead of vanilla -- on the side. If you have no strawberry then just forget it."
"The pie?" the waitress asked annoyed.
"No, I'll have the pie, but not heated."
William looked at her in shock. Elizabeth took her napkin and cutely put it on her lap, while giving him a beatific smile. "What?"
"Nothing," he said while smirking.
"There is something. What?"
"You have the most beautiful eyes."
"Are we back to that again. Listen buddy, it's a long ride back to Boston. So let me tell you now. We will not sleep together. Geez, you are my best friend's boyfriend!"
End of Scene I
Act I Scene II
"I don't understand why you find it so difficult to believe that men will always want to sleep with a pretty woman."
"I happen to have plenty of male friends that I have not slept with," she smiled smugly.
"But they want to sleep with you--that is what I am saying," he continued to focus on the road ahead of him.
"Do you make your views known to complete strangers all the time?" she countered.
"I'm just trying to make you see reason, actually. You are an attractive woman, and men will want to sleep with you."
"And ugly women, men want to sleep with them too?"
"No," he glanced sideways at her and smiled. "Yes, we pretty much want to shag them too."
Same Day (S.D.): Elizabeth now driving; pulls up in front of the Archway to the Boston Public Gardens and let's William out. His room is at the Ritz Carlton.
"One more question, Mr. Darcy?" he slung his luggage on his back, and went to the driver's side window.
"Yes?"
"If you are so rich, why didn't you fly to Boston."
"I wouldn't have met you, now would I. Good luck with the Boston Globe. I'll bet you'll be an ace reporter in no time."
"Yeah, you too. I mean with Fidelity. Quite the company to work for."
"Ah, the Eighties should be good to us, Miss Bennet. You working for a wonderful paper, and I working for Peter Lynch. Should prove interesting."
"Well, good-bye."
Elizabeth gunned the engine and pulled off before the yellow light turned red. William laughed as she took off quite fast.
End of Act I
Act II Scene I
Five Years later
Int. Logan International Airport; Terminal C -- United Airlines departing gate.
Elizabeth is in liplock with handsome blonde gentleman. Another very handsome gentleman walks around the kissing couple, and wonders where he knows these people from. Elizabeth sees said gentleman watching her and gently pushes away her kissing partner.
"Joseph Reed?" William Darcy asked.
"William, how are you?"
William smiled and shook the gentleman's hand. Elizabeth turned around so as not to catch his eye. She did remember him and blushed furiously. Joe turned around and introduced Elizabeth to William.
"William, this is my fiancée, Elizabeth Bennet. Liz, this is the one and only William Darcy. Fidelity's best financial advisor around." William took her hand and held onto it longer than was necessary. She pulled her hand away abruptly and quickly wrapped her arm around Joe's.
"You must be the Elizabeth Bennet who works for the Boston Globe? You write the editorials that have been crushing my views on the foreign markets."
"I write as I find Mr. Darcy."
William noticed that now would be a good time to walk away, but not before giving Elizabeth a look and then a small smile.
Joe took Elizabeth's face in his hands and kissed her again. "I love you."
"No, I love you." She said in return.
"I love you more."
"Ah, but I love you most."
The announcement of Elizabeth's flight was called on the P.A. system, and she tearfully pulled from his embrace. "I'll see you in one week's time, Joe. I'll call. I'll send you a postcard."
"Elizabeth, you are only going to New York. I don't think I need a postcard from the big apple, honestly." She smiled at him, and he kissed her nose.
Elizabeth sat at her seat on the airplane watching the plane ascend into the air. The gentleman right beside her started asking her inane questions causing her to sigh and twist in her seat. No relief in sight.
Sitting behind her was none other than William Darcy himself. He leaned over the chair and acknowledged her.
"Miss Bennet, I remember who you are."
"Do you?" she said archly.
The man to Elizabeth's right asked if William would like to change seats, and he agreed. Elizabeth wasn't thrilled.
"I do remember you, Mr. Darcy, but I prefer to forget you." She hissed.
"So you are engaged to marry Joe?"
She sighed. "Yes. Do you have a problem with that, Mr. Darcy?"
He laughed at her. "Of course, not. I'm getting married myself."
She turned to look at him finally and gave him the biggest smile. "Are you going to marry, oh what is her name… That girl, you know, my former roommate. Hmm.. why can I not remember her name?"
"You mean Summer, I presume."
Elizabeth slapped her brow, "Yes, Summer -- that was it!"
"Actually, I never saw Summer again. No, the woman I am marrying is a corporate lawyer. Her name is Autumn Morgan. She works for Hale and Dorr."
"Very nice. I'm very happy for you. May you be very happy in all your future endeavors."
William looked at her strangely, then had a thought. "Well since the two of us will be in New York, why don't you have dinner with me. So we don't have to eat alone, and we can talk about the wedding plans."
She eyed him suspiciously.
"Please, Miss Bennet?"
"Oh well, what's the harm. You are a friend of Joe's."
"Great. Dinner at Tavern on the Green. Say tomorrow night around eight o'clock?"
She smiled. "Sounds fine, Mr. Darcy," she leaned in closer to him, "but I still will not sleep with you."
End of Scene I
Act II Scene II
Int. Dimly lit Tavern on the Green.
Elizabeth slowly walked into the restaurant and immediately went to the Maitre'D. She looked around to see if she could see the gentleman whom she was meeting, but the lighting did not cooperate. She gave her name to the man.
"Ah, Miss Bennet. We have been expecting you. Follow me this way." He took her coat, then motioned her towards the table. William Darcy arose from his seat when he saw Elizabeth walking towards him. He pulled the seat out for her and watched her amazed face as she noticed the rose on her plate. He admired her form in the black cocktail dress that she was wearing, and she noticed his dark Armani suit looking quite fetching on him.
"Oh, this is so unnecessary, Mr. Darcy. I cannot accept this."
He smiled demurely. "Think of it as a well-wishing for a long and happy marriage to Mr. Reed. And please, I beg of you to call me William. Mr. Darcy reminds me of my father and grandfather." He mentioned good naturedly.
"Very well then, you may call me Elizabeth." She smiled back at him.
Dinner was a marvelous affair with excellent food, interesting conversation and just the right music in the background. They talked on such a broad range of subjects to shock even Elizabeth. They spoke of the unrest they thought would take place shortly in Romania, to President Reagan's trickle-down economics and the stock markets shaky existence of late.
After dinner William noticed people getting up to dance, he asked Elizabeth if she would like to take a spin out on the floor.
"I don't think.. I'm really quite terrible." He stood up and held his hand out to her. "Why not? But forgive me now if I step on your feet."
"You are already forgiven." He said earnestly.
There was a big band playing old hits from the '40s. Elizabeth had never danced so much in her life. She was having a great time, and she didn't even step on his toes once. They danced to Glenn Miller, Harry James, and even some Duke Ellington tunes.
"You are a wonderful dancer, Elizabeth. You mislead me."
She laughed at him. "I think it was the wonderful lead I had." He spun her out, and this time she came in a little too fast and right into his chest. He wrapped his arms around her as she stared into his eyes.
"I think I just got a little dizzy. Maybe we should go back to the table and have some coffee." He led her off the dance floor.
After drinking two cups of cappuccino and eating tiramisu, Elizabeth was back to her old joking self. She asked him about his fiancée.
He sighed. "Autumn was helping Fidelity with some contracts for a new fund that Peter Lynch wanted to start up. They had asked me to be one of the fixed-income managers on it, but I thought it too risky. Although, I did help with the contracts, I didn't want my name on anything. Bonds are a tough area in the financial world, and if you mess up just once, your career can blow away.
"So anyway, Autumn and I started working closely together, and one thing led to another, and now we are engaged and soon to be married. And you? How did you meet Joe?"
"Well Joe works for the Boston office of the Wall St. Journal, and he was doing an article on the Boston Globe. I was asked to cater to his every whim. Oh, that doesn't sound too good, does it?"
William shook his head and smiled. "Elizabeth, I had a wonderful time tonight. I would like to ask your forgiveness for my earlier attitude when we drove from Chicago. I berate myself on that issue every time I think of it. I would like to be friends." He stuck his hand out, and she took it.
"Well I do understand what you meant by men and women not being friends, and sex always intruding. I think you are right on that aspect. But we can prove the theory wrong by remaining friends, right?"
"Exactly. We should get together after the weddings are said and done, and have dinner with each other, and the spouses too."
Elizabeth looked away. He caught the sadness in her eyes. "Did I say something wrong?"
"Oh, no. Not at all, it's just that Joe and I -- well, we were hoping for a long engagement. We are in no rush to get married just yet."
"Oh. I understand. Well, after my marriage then. We can still get together and have that dinner. We could introduce our significant others."
Elizabeth's eyes lit up. "That would be nice."
"Elizabeth?"
She cocked her head, "Yes?"
"You still have beautiful eyes."
End of Scene II
Act II Scene III
Int. Three days later. Lobby of Elizabeth's hotel.
William Darcy strode into the hotel and made his way to the receptionist. He waited while she tended to an irate customer on the phone. When she was able to give him her full attention, he gave her his deadly dimpled smile. All was lost for the young woman.
"How may I be of service to you, sir?" she asked prettily.
"Miss Elizabeth Bennet's room, please." She frowned slightly, and he seemed amused.
"Let me ring her, and see if she is in." she turned her back to him and made the necessary call. "She said to go right up. Room 1212."
"Thank you." William went to the elevator, and went directly to Elizabeth's room. The door was opened when he made it there, and said hello to acknowledge that he had come up.
"I'll be with you in a moment, William. Have a seat." She called out to him.
After a couple of minutes, she ventured out of the bathroom and shook William's hand. "What do I owe this honor?"
"I had nothing to do, and was checking the horrible New York Post when the cinema section grabbed my attention. Across from Central Park is an old movie house showing Casablanca, and I thought I could tempt you into being my date for the afternoon?"
"How did you possibly know that this is my favorite movie of all time?"
He smiled enthusiastically. "What are friend's for? Come on and get your coat, there is a chill in the air."
Once outside, they headed in the direction of Central Park. Elizabeth shuffled through the fallen leaves, kicking up beautiful hues of red, gold and brown. "I just have to love Autumn in New York, don't you."
"Hmm… very much so. It's quite lovely walking through this park. But with you, the inducement makes it even more lovely."
She narrowed her eyes at him. "Your coming on to me again?"
He quirked an eyebrow, "I wouldn't think of ruining a friendship by bringing up romantic feelings. I've never quite had a platonic relationship with an attractive woman before. Most of them generally just throw themselves at me. But your different…"
"You sound quite high and mighty admitting that women lay down at your feet. I have always been the type to go against the grain. Though most women would throw themselves at you, I would never condescend to do any such thing. I would not want to be part of the norm."
"And that is what is so irresistible about you. Your cute nose, your annoying eating habits, or better yet, when you order food. Always on the side. 'Is there Mayonnaise on that?' 'Could I have it on the side?' You are very funny."
"You have a lovely accent. Very proper and debonair, that is what drives the women crazy. For if they really knew you, they would be disgusted by you." she laughed, then picked up a handful of leaves and threw them at him.
"That is not fair, you had the element of surprise!" he said, as he threw some more back at her. They continued on through the park whipping leaves at each other. Her cheeks and nose were red from the nippiness in the air. Her eyes sparkled as they finally entered the movie house.
"Would you like to go all out and get some popcorn and sodas?" he asked. She nodded her head in assent, and he placed the order.
Once ensconced in their seats in the theater, they became oblivious to each other and lost themselves to Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart.
They took a more subdued walk through Central Park watching couples strolling along arm in arm, some stopping to kiss each other; others to just admire the person they're with. Elizabeth spied a children's park in the center of Central Park and headed in that direction.
"Do you mind watching the children for a minute?"
"Not at all, do you like children?" she turned her back to him and answered affirmatively. Then told him that she didn't want children right away. But watching them and playing with them always appealed to her. William came up slowly behind her. Watching her.
"And you? Do you like children?" she ventured.
"I do. But I take your philosophy, play with them then send them home!"
"William, this is perfect. The weather, the children, the color of the leaves and Casablanca. I've always hated New York, but today I love it. Absolutely love it."
The intoxicating scent of the herbal essence from her shampoo played tricks on his mind. At that very instant, he had the strangest urge to pull her into his arms and kiss her. But a true friend wouldn't allow romantic feelings to get in the way.
End of Act II
Act III Scene I
Three Year's Later
Int. Boston. Isabella Steward Gardner Museum Atrium Restaurant. Music in Background is Rach 2. (Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto #2)
Elizabeth sipped her red wine and listened to Charlotte Lucas and Jane Bennet, who pulled a rolodex out of her huge purse, thinking it would help her sister overcome her failed engagement.
"Here is a good person Stephen Wilson, Lizzy."
"Jane, you tried to set me up with him six years ago! He was a drip. Listen, I don't need to go out on a date to fulfill my empty life right now," Elizabeth reiterated.
"Now Lizzy, you are in denial. You have to jump back in the pond again," Charlotte chastised.
"Char, I haven't jumped out of the pond. Joe and I just grew apart. I guess a long engagement wasn't what we really needed."
"Here it is. The perfect man for you. Carl Forster, handsome and young, and quite well off. He works for Bank of New England. A vice president." She whispered the last part to Charlotte.
"He also got married last year. Jane, put away the rolodex."
"Married." She said in awe as she dog-eared the index card. She changed the subject. "You know I saw Harvey's American Express bill. He bought his wife a brand new nightgown. After he told me he was leaving his wife."
Elizabeth was exasperated, she'd had enough and wanted to leave. "Jane, Harvey will never leave his wife."
"But still Elizabeth, he did tell me that he loved me." Elizabeth sighed. "Lizzy, what did happen between you and Joe?"
"I didn't want children, and he did."
Charlotte piped up. "Men. They think we are supposed to be a slave to them and do what they command. I hate men. All men!" she nodded her head matter-of-factly.
Elizabeth shrugged off Charlotte's moment of feminism. "So what do you guys have planned for the holidays? Any New Year's Eve parties?"
"Yes, Lizzy, at Marie's we go every year. Remember?"
"Nothing different." She looked around at the shocked faces. "Joe and I went every year, for me to show up without him will be strange, to say the least. And what if Joe shows up!"
"He won't, I have it on good authority that Melissa won't let him." Charlotte turned bright red at the implication. Elizabeth felt her body go hot and cold.
"He's seeing Melissa Russo?"
Jane took Elizabeth's hand and rubbed it soothingly. "I'm sorry, sis. We just found out about it."
"I'm thirty-one years old, and I'm going to end up an old maid. I should just get used to it. Men don't want to marry me." She said dejectedly.
"Oh hush, Lizzy, you are a beautiful vivacious young woman. Men go crazy over you. Wherever you go." Jane admonished.
"That gentleman certainly has been staring at you, Lizzy." She motioned to a table with a man and a woman.
Elizabeth put on her glasses to see better. "I think I know him. Hmm… Can't place the name though."
Jane saw the man get up with his female companion and head towards the table. "Well Lizzy, you better think of something fast!"
Elizabeth wracked her brain, but still could not put name to face. She blushed profusely when he stopped at her table.
"Miss Bennet?"
"Yes, hello." She said tentatively.
He picked up on that she didn't remember him. "You never were one for names, Miss Bennet. Let me reintroduce myself. Darcy. William Darcy."
Jane giggled and asked if he like to be shaken or stirred. Elizabeth gasped. "Jane!
"You must excuse my sister, Mr. Darcy, she momentarily lost her wits. Now I remember you." She smiled to him.
"I believe I have too. Forgive my rudeness, let me introduce you to My fiancée, Winter Goodwin."
Elizabeth looked perplexed. She tried hard to remember who he was supposed to marry three years ago.
"Winter, very nice to meet you." Elizabeth stood and took the other woman's hand.
"Likewise. We've been looking at the pretty pictures today. Quite an amazing woman that Isabella was. Wills dear told me that Henry James actually wrote a book about her. Called Portrait of a Lady. Amazing isn't it. That she would have a book written about her?"
Elizabeth was highly amused by this woman. She realized that the overprocessing of her hair had seriously affected her brain. William seemed to wince as soon as she opened her mouth. He thought by taking over the conversation would silence his fiancée.
"Miss Bennet, have you and Mr. Reed finally tied the knot."
She flashed him a semi-ironic smile then looked beatifically at Winter. "Actually Joe and I have called off the engagement, Mr. Darcy."
He seemed momentarily discomposed, then reiterated his regrets, and left with a huge grin on his face.
Jane spoke up first. "Where have you been hiding him? He is to die for!"
"He is the most disagreeable man I have ever met. Really Jane, 'which do you prefer shaken or stirred'." They all burst into hysterics.
Act III Scene II
Int. Morrissey Blvd. Boston Globe News Office and Devonshire St. Fidelity Headquarters.
Elizabeth stared at the typewriter trying to come up with the by-line that would make people want to read her article. However, nothing came to mind. What did keep popping up was her meeting with William Darcy at the museum over a week ago. Some how he disconcerted her.
"Liz, you have a call," Lou Grant yelled from two desks away. "Some guy saying you needed a quote for your article. Hey, since when did you start doing financials?"
"What line, Lou?"
"Two."
"Liz Bennet. You have a quote for me?" she asked hurriedly.
"I do." The voice was unmistakable. "A quote and lunch."
She smiled. "Well, tell me what the quote is, and how it could possibly pertain to my story. Lunch is a given." She teased.
"What month is it?"
"It's October."
"What day of the week is it?" he laughed.
"It's Monday. You're losing me here."
"All right, I'll clarify. Word on the street is that the market will tumble today, a huge nose-dive. What do you think about that?"
"Let's see October 19, 1987, October 29, 1929. You think there's a correlation?"
"If I'm wrong, no lunch. But if I'm right, then you have lunch with me tomorrow. I can easily send a Fidelity car to come and pick you up."
Elizabeth took the phone away from her ear. "Lou, check the markets, what's it doing?" William laughed.
"Market's down 130 points. Why?"
"Just a hunch." She returned her attention to the phone. "I'll watch and phone you at 4pm. What about Winter?"
"Don't you worry about her. Can't wait for tomorrow." And he hung up the phone.
At four o'clock that day Elizabeth went to the wire room to check on the status of the stock market. She shrieked when she saw the final outcome. The stock market plummeted 22.6% or 508 points.
Lou asked her why the long face. "I lost a bet, and a lot a money." When she returned to her desk her phone was ringing. She picked it up; however, before she could say hello, the caller spoke:
"The car will pick you up at noon, Miss Bennet."
"Fine, Mr. Darcy. I'll see you tomorrow at noon."
He interrupted her before she hung up. "I seem to recall a time when I was William and you were Elizabeth, has that changed?"
"No."
"I'll see you tomorrow, Elizabeth."
Ext. Walking through Boston Commons with Jane.
"I have a lunch meeting with William Darcy tomorrow. I've lost a bet, and he called me on it."
Jane laughed. "I think you should, he's too good-looking to pass up."
"It's nothing romantic just two old friends having lunch. He's engaged, remember, to Winter."
Jane looked her sister over and frowned. "She's an airhead. I can't possibly see him actually marrying her. You'd be perfect for him. You two have that chemistry."
"What chemistry? We said hello, that is all. He is engaged." She reminded her sister.
"He seemed quite pleased when you told him the engagement was off."
"Jane, have you finally dumped Harvey?" she asked, changing the subject
"Well I told him to make a decision regarding our relationship. It's either his wife or me. He'll have to make the call."
"Who do you think he'll choose?" Elizabeth asked gently. Jane looked troubled.
"His wife." Elizabeth put her arm on her sister's shoulder.
"Oh Jane, you and I are just unlucky in love. But I feel that the tides will be changing for us. We must remain positive."
"Lizzy, you have that gorgeous man practically drooling over you, and you are so nonchalant about it all. I don't understand you!"
"My rules, Jane. My rules."
Ext. Fidelity Car parked outside Boston Globe News Offices on Morrissey Blvd.
The driver of the car stood outside the passenger waiting for his client. Elizabeth hurried out the front door and rushed into the car.
William sat in the opposite seat.
"The thing about limousines is that one never knows who's going to be inside of it." She joked.
"I thought of surprising you last minute. We have reservations at the Bay Tower Room."
She laughed. "Did you suffer huge losses yesterday?"
"Million and a half."
"Oh Lord! That is staggering."
"I have enough." William said soberly.
"So you have made quite a name for yourself at Fidelity Investments. You should be very pleased with yourself."
He looked at her in earnest. He fought the urge to put up the partition between driver and occupants, and just kiss her. He shook off his gravity. "And you, do you play the markets?"
"Very little. I don't quite have the play money you do. Columnists aren't paid millions, like financial advisors. How is your little fiancée, Winter, right?"
He grimaced. "I believe she is fine. She's vacationing in Bermuda this week. Or should I say honeymooning." He was amused at her confusion. "She married a man a little bit wealthier than me."
"You don't seem so sad. And how quick! I only saw you a week ago."
"Actually, it was a relief. I would've called off the engagement. I found her too fickle for my well-being."
They arrived at Sixty State Street and went to the top floor for the restaurant. William pulled out Elizabeth's seat and helped her into it. A single rose graced the fine china.
"Déjà vu." he whispered.
"I don't recall friends giving friends roses."
"Not even particularly special friends?" he questioned.
"Whatever happened to the corporate lawyer you were to marry. Again, the name escapes me." She noted that changing the subject was a pastime with her.
"Ah, Autumn Morgan. When I came back from New York, things had changed between us. Well to be truthful, I fell in love with another woman."
"Oh, the poor woman. Did she take it hard? And couldn't I call you fickle, also. Falling in love with another woman! I just found out that Joe is dating a woman that I know. It's difficult."
"I was surprised that you and Mr. Reed had split up. I had heard that you two were very close and tight."
She looked down at her plate. "That was a long time ago, I don't think I want to discuss this anymore. I'm sorry about Winter and Autumn." She laughed, shaking off her gravity.
Changing the subject drastically, he tried a more lighter approach. "Why would a study on males exciting females be in a paper as renowned as the Boston Globe?"
"Slow news day, I believe. Did you not care for the article? I know that the particular gentleman who wrote it had quite the experience interviewing people about gratifying one's lover."
"The article referenced that more woman fake excitement. I find that hard to believe. We do know when women are faking. We know when we are being played."
Elizabeth laughed out loud at that one. "Do you? Pray tell, what signs do you look for when a woman is faking it?"
"Not a sign in particular, but one can tell by how involved she is."
"And you are trying to see how involved she is? Aren't you more agreeably engaged?"
He laughed. "Yes, but… one can tell."
"You seem to be at a loss for words, William."
He blushed. "It's just something that I know." He said adamantly. The waiter came by and took their order.
"I'm saying that you're wrong. You couldn't possibly know the difference." She smirked at him.
"You're feeling quite good about yourself right now aren't you? I'll prove you wrong."
"And it would imply that…"
He cut her off. "Not necessarily, madam." He smiled sneakily at her.
The waiter brought out her salad, and she started working on it. After taking a couple of bites, she put her fork down and started moaning. Softly at first.
"Elizabeth, are you okay?" asked William.
Her moans became a little bit louder and more sensual. He looked oddly at her. She brought her hands up to her hair and said a breathless, "yes!" William realized at that instant what she was doing and went along for the ride. She worked herself up into a frenzy moaning and groaning. Moving her hands up and down. Slamming them on the table. "Yes! Yes!" The restaurant patrons stopped eating and stared at Elizabeth. The waitstaff looked on amusedly.
When all was said and done, she picked up the fork and began again on her salad.
William's face was flushed red, yet he was laughing. "Was it good for you?"
She smiled prettily at him and continued eating.
Act III Scene III
Int. 3.00a.m. Brookline Village apartment and Beacon Hill Townhouse.
Five Days Later
Elizabeth had been sleeping quite soundly when the ringing of the telephone awoke her. She felt around in the dark for her phone on her bedside table.
"Bennet, here." She said sleepily.
"Good morning, Elizabeth."
She groaned. "William, do you realize what time it is?" she looked over at her alarm clock. "Goodness, it's three o'clock!"
"I need to talk to you. Now. There is a car waiting outside your apartment for you. Can you be ready in ten minutes?"
"I think not, sir!" she realized something important. "How did you get my phone number and address?"
"I'll tell you when you get here. Please, it's quite important. I have the coffee all ready."
"This better be good." She hung up.
Within fifteen minutes, she was settled in the car and heading into Beacon Hill, cursing herself for saying yes. The ride took all of fifteen minutes due to the bare streets at that time of the morning. The driver asked her some questions, she answered and wondered what William could possibly have to say to her at three-thirty in the morning.
"Did Mr. Darcy tell you why you had to come and pick me up?"
"No, ma'am. He just gave me the order to pick you up."
"Does he do this often?"
"Oh, I've picked up many women before for Mr. Darcy. Brought them home too. I bring more women home, than pick up though." He laughed. Elizabeth colored at the thought of what was going through the driver's mind.
"We're just friends." He turned and winked at her. The driver pulled onto Joy Street and told her which house was Mr. Darcy's. He indicated by the front porch light that was illuminating the part of the street. William who had been watching from the window proceeded to open the front door.
"Elizabeth." He smiled.
"Do you know what this looks like?" she hissed at him. "Your driver seems to think that I am yet another conquest." She berated him once inside the house.
"I doubt that he said that. I told him that we were friends. I have coffee in the kitchen. My housekeeper is already up and about this morning." He smiled at her. Trying to loosen her up.
"Coffee would be perfect right now. Then you tell me what is going on." He nodded. She followed him into the kitchen and marveled at the décor. All white with splashes of vibrant colors. Very modern decorations she noted. Most likely a conquest helped decorate.
He poured out two heaping cups of hot coffee and asked if toast would be to her liking; she declined. They both sat down at the table across from each other.
"So…" she started.
He took a deep breath and a long sip of coffee. "I'm being transferred."
She narrowed her eyes at him. "And…"
"Elizabeth, I'm being transferred to the Tokyo office. They want me to head up the fixed income group there. I'll be leaving in two weeks."
She bit the inside of her cheek and looked thoughtfully at him. "So…"
He seemed a bit exasperated. "So? I thought we were making great strides in our friendship, and wanted you to know that I'm leaving."
"And this could've waited for breakfast time or lunch time. Really William, this is wonderful news. It's a great opportunity for you."
"That is all you have to say?" he tried not to sound hurt.
"William, this is a wonderful news. Of course I'll miss you. But with modern technology, we can phone each other. Or we could write letters."
"I actually had another thought in mind, really." He laughed.
She laughed. "What?"
"Well in Japan, they are quite adamant about men being married. Very adamant."
"Different culture, I understand."
He got up and paced around . Elizabeth looked at him in wonder. "What is the problem, William?"
He sat down again, but this time beside her and took both of her hands into his. "Elizabeth, I know that... And I've been… And you know… Your being a columnist and such, and having absolutely no money. We don't exactly move around in the same social circles; but the more I get to know you, the more I know how much… I ask that you consent to be wife. It would look good if we got married fairly quickly, Fidelity is willing to pick up any expense to expedite this. It would be quite prodigious of you to say yes."
Elizabeth pulled back her hand angrily. A tumult of thoughts crossed her brain, but she needed to gather her thoughts before she could whole-heartedly deny him. She had never felt so insulted in her life.
"I believe that most women of your social circle would jump up and wrap their arms around your neck, and give you a passionate kiss at this moment. But I cannot. I have never desired your love and you have bestowed it most unwillingly to me. I wanted a friendship, and you couldn't do it. I knew you wanted to sleep with me, but I wouldn't allow you the gratification. No, Mr. Darcy, I cannot and will not marry you."
"And this is the reply, I am to expect? I have bestowed my heartfelt appreciation to you; and you deny me because I pointed out the rather obvious obstacle regarding our union."
"You insulted me, William. How could I possibly accept the hand of the man who tells me that it would be prodigious for me to say yes."
"It would have been prodigious of you. Think of the wealth and jewels and vacations you would have. You would have no need to work anymore."
Elizabeth stood and headed out of the kitchen. "Good bye, Mr. Darcy. I hope that all works out for you in Japan." She headed out the front door and into the waiting car. Tears spilled down her face as she waited for the driver to start up the car.
"Take me home."
William went to the front door and watched the car pull away.
End of Act III
Act IV Scene I
Posted on Thursday, 08-Oct-98
Ext. Boston Public Gardens
Nine Months Later
Jane hurried through the crowd of tourists on her way to take a ride on the Swan Boats with Elizabeth. She was already running twenty minutes late. Elizabeth knew that time was money, and was not happy being kept waiting.
She finally saw Elizabeth sitting on a bench staring at her watch. "Elizabeth!" she called out. "I'm here. Finally. The subway was all backed up and it was so crowded. People pushing and shoving."
"Jane, I understand. I bought the tickets. But I see you've forgotten the popcorn."
"Oh, right. Well we don't need to feed the ducks and swans anyway. They're overfed as it is. Look at how fat some of them are. They need to diet."
"Hmm.. dieting ducks; interesting." They both laughed. "Charlotte is worried about you, Lizzy. She said you haven't returned any of her calls in two months."
"I don't have anything to say." Elizabeth walked a little ahead of her sister and took her place in line.
"Elizabeth, you've been not yourself for a while now. You're always internalizing everything, and one of these days, it will explode and no one will be around to help you, because you push everyone away," Jane lectured.
"I don't. I just don't have much to say to people. Work is keeping me busy, this is an election year, you know."
It had been months since Jane dared to broach this subject. "Have you heard from William?"
She glared at her sister, then the thought of him brought back all good times they had. Her little performance at lunch and his reaction to it.
"Was it good for you?" he had said. Then his concession to her. He told her that if she was really like that, he'd be one lucky guy. She should've seen it as a come on. He was just chatting her up, like all the other women he decided to be the "one".
She also thought way back to Central Park. Autumn in New York. Ironic how he had been engaged to Autumn at the time. She remembered. She always remembered. Summer, Autumn, Winter. But yet he asked an Elizabeth to be his wife. Rudely, but he asked. She couldn't have married him anyway. Joe was always in the back of her mind at the time. Cripes, she had just broken off her engagement. She couldn't and wouldn't rush into a relationship. She needed time to heal. Time to be alone and enjoy the single life. Timing was all wrong. Was she starting to rationalize?
So many things had gone on, and she would have loved to be able to ring him and tell him. Her interview with Caspar Weinberger. Her time on the local news. Interviewing Fawn Hall. Paying attention to what was going on in the land of Bonds. She wanted a friendship. He wanted more.
"Elizabeth, where are you?"
She snapped out of it. "Oh, I was just thinking about an article I'm working on."
"Oh!" she tried to say in an upbeat manner, but it sounded more croaky.
"Can I cancel lunch with you? I'm not very hungry right now and I need to make a phone call."
"But what of the Swan Boat ride."
She started dashing off, "It'll keep." And she was gone.
End of Scene I
Act IV Scene II
"Are you sure the housekeeper will have everything all set for us?" she questioned her partner.
"Yes, everything will be ready for our arrival." He reiterated.
"And everyone knows about me. You didn't forget to tell everyone that you have a wife."
He smiled down at her. "Of course not. Everyone is only the housekeeper, dear."
"How long are we here for?"
"Two weeks, Spring. Don't worry about it. You'll love Boston."
William's driver appeared with a big smile on his face. When he introduced the woman as his wife, his face dropped. "But what about the other one…"
He gave him a stern look and helped his wife into the car.
"Lou, what's the time difference between Boston and Tokyo?"
Lou shook his head, "I give, what?"
"I'm asking you." She shot at him.
"I dunno about eighteen hours?"
"So it should be early morning, good time to call the Fidelity office in Tokyo?"
"Yes, I guess so. But why?" he asked
"Just a hunch." Elizabeth smiled.
Elizabeth dialed the Tokyo office of Fidelity. With every intention of… What? What could you possibly say to him. I'm sorry. She smiled to herself. That'll do.
"Hello." The accented voice said softly.
"Hello, I'm calling from the United States. I'd like to speak to William Darcy." Elizabeth felt her face grow hot.
"Hold, please." Elizabeth held for a couple of minutes. "I'm sorry, Mr. Darcy is out of the office. He's on holiday in the States."
"This is a personal call would you be able to tell me where he is vacationing?"
The woman on the other line ruffled through some papers. "Yes, it says that he is in Boston."
Elizabeth smiled broadly. "Thank you. Thank you, very much." She hung up the phone.
"Lou, I'm going home for the night. See you tomorrow."
"Yeah, I'll see you bright and early. And stop flashing those pearly whites, you're blinding me!"
Elizabeth called for a cab and gave the driver 16 Joy Street as an address. She leaned her head against the window and watched the cars that whizzed by. Her heart started beating faster and faster every time the skyline of the city came into view. She knew that it would only be a couple of minutes before the cab was stopped in front of his townhouse.
She could give him a proper apology for her attitude all those months ago.
The cab pulled up to the parking spot in front of his townhouse. Elizabeth paid the driver and took a deep breath before heading out of the car.
She opened the rod iron front gate and headed up the stairs. She knocked on the door and turned around admiring the tulips and roses that graced the small front yard.
She heard the door open and hesitated turning around. At that instant, she regretted being so unpredictable. That was so unlike her. Slowly she gathered up her courage and turned around.
"Elizabeth!"
"Hello, William. I phoned you in Japan, they told me you were home. Can I come in?"
He held the door open for her and escorted her in and brought her into the living room. "Wait here for a moment."
If her heart was racing, his was doing double time.
William went into the bedroom and informed Spring of their guest. "How did she know that we had just come here?" she asked.
"She phoned the office in Japan. Come down and meet her."
She pouted at him. "William, it's been a long flight, I don't feel like entertaining right now. Can you have her come back."
"No," he said slowly, "She has come tonight. You will join me downstairs in the living room. Now." She rolled off the bed and trudged slowly beside her. Exaggerating her movements. He shot her a furious look.
Elizabeth was admiring some Ivory Elephants on the mantle over the fireplace when William escorted his wife into the room. Elizabeth gave him a bright smile, but it faded when she saw the woman behind him.
"Hello?" she said quickly.
"Elizabeth, let me introduce you to my wife, Spring Darcy. Spring, Miss Bennet is a reporter for the Boston Globe."
Elizabeth felt as if the smile was permanently on her face and wouldn't leave. Married!
"How lovely. I'm sorry, Miss Bennet we've just arrived home and are quite jet-agged. You must forgive me for not appearing in top form tonight. We were expecting to spend a quiet night at home." William nudged his wife.
"Oh, I'm very sorry. I'll let you two recuperate. I'm sorry for intruding. William, enjoy your time in Boston." She took her leave.
William headed out to walk Elizabeth out. "I've read all your stuff. Very impressive."
"You had the Boston Globe in Japan?"
"It was a piece of home. I guess this would put a strain on our friendship now, wouldn't it?"
She swallowed the lump in here throat. "Not really." She lied. "She seems like a lovely woman."
He didn't say anything.
Elizabeth held out her hand to him. "Well, good-bye."
"You were right," he said quickly, holding onto her hand. "I shouldn't have let my feelings intrude when it came to you."
"Don't," she pulled her hand away. "I just came to apologize, and see if we could still remain friends."
"I had hoped as much, Elizabeth."
"It will be difficult when you go back to Japan, when you have children, and when you decide to go on holidays with your wife. Most women don't like their husbands to be particular friends to other women. Cardinal rule number 1."
"I'm sorry."
"You didn't do anything wrong, I did."
End of Scene II
Act IV Scene IV
Int. Sullivan Stadium – Foxborough, MA New England Patriots game.
One Year Later
Charles Bingley walked back to his seat with William Darcy holding two beers, hot-dogs and pretzels. The first quarter had just ended and Steve Grogan was being replaced by Doug Flutie. William cursed the change.
"Damn McPherson has no clue what he's doing, replacing Grogan with Flutie. Stupid, stupid mistake. We're down a touchdown!" he swiped the food out of Charles' hand.
"Take it easy, man! It's only a game." William stared at Charles.
"I've had a lot on my mind lately."
Charles nodded. "You're back in the Boston office, that's good."
William nodded. "Yes. I didn't realize how much I missed Boston, until I wasn't here."
"And Spring? I recall she hated Boston."
William winced. "I remember Spring hating everything; including me. She came home and told me that she would be subletting a coworker's apartment."
"That bad, huh?"
William nodded his head. "The thing is Charles, I really tried to love her. I gave her everything I could possibly give. The kicker is, the day she tells me she's planning on leaving, the movers show up. They had her moved out in half an hour. And she took my art."
"It's for the best, William. She sucked the life out of you. You just were not happy with her."
"I lied, Charles. She left me for another man."
"Really?"
"She told me that she could never love me. She said my hang-up with another woman made it impossible to live with me. She took my art work, and she wants half of my money."
Charles shook his head. "Tell me you had her sign a prenup?"
William shook his head in the negative.
"What were you thinking! This is the eighties! All women want half of everything! Why do you think I've stayed single for so long?"
"Because you repulse women?" he teased.
"Not quite, William." They both got up to do the wave.
"So who is this woman that you pine for?"
"I don't pine for anyone." Charles stared at him with an evil eye. "Ten years ago, I had a ride from Chicago to Boston with an ex-girlfriend's former roommate. We didn't quite hit it off, actually. She thought I was coming on to her by mentioning that she was attractive. Well we got into a discussion about men and women and my being a pig."
"Ah, so it was love at first sight." He cracked.
"I didn't see her after that for five years. I was engaged to Autumn, and she was engaged to a mutual friend. We ended up on the same flight to New York, had dinner, shared Casablanca, and I fell totally and madly in love with her."
"And you didn't do anything about it because…"
"Because she wanted friendship only. I had to prove to her that I could be her friend, and not her lover."
Charles laughed. "Are you crazy, man! You find the woman that you think is the "one", and you let your gentlemanly behavior get in the way."
"She didn't seem interested in anything other than friendship. I couldn't scare her away with my resolve, if she only wanted to be friends."
"That is the stupidest thing I've ever heard, William. Did you ever, once just tell her how you felt."
"I thought we were here to watch the game?"
"Forget the game, I want you to answer my question."
"I wanted to tell her, so many times. We seemed to be separated more than anything else."
"Why did you marry Spring again?" he pushed on.
"It looked good in Japan. They were quite insistent on my getting married. I know it was the worst thing I could've done."
"Has she filed for divorce yet." William again nodded his head. "And obviously you are not contesting it."
"Good God, no! I want to be finished with this as soon as possible."
"And this person, have you tried to call her or see her."
"I haven't seen her in a year."
Charles looked thoughtful for a couple of minutes. "Give me her phone number."
"What?"
"I'll ask her out on a date. I'll tell her I have a friend, and if she has a friend, we can double up."
William looked aghast at Charles. "That is the most ridiculous thing I've heard!"
"But you will do it. You want to see her, and I get to check out her friend." He smiled slyly.
"She would not be happy, and I'm too old to play games."
"Her number?"
William relented and wrote it down on the back of the receipt that he had in his leather bomber jacket.
"This is not going to work." William said decidedly.
Act IV Scene IV
Twenty minutes after Elizabeth beeped Jane she called. "What, sis? I was eating dinner with Harvey."
"I thought that he was back with his wife?" she said annoyed
"Well he was, but he couldn't live without me."
"Oh Jane, you are setting yourself up for a big fall. But enough of that, who the hell is Charles Bingley, and why did you give him my phone number?"
"I don't know a Charles Bingley. Maybe it was Charlotte Lucas?"
Elizabeth groaned. Whoever it was, she was not happy about it.
"This man called me. Would not tell me who gave him my number asked me out on a date. Asked if I had a friend, and if I could bring her too. I thought he was looking for a menage å trois. He has a friend that he would bring. Jane, will you be the fourth person. Please?"
"But Harvey?"
"Jane, the jerk is married! Please. It's been a long time since I've been on a date." She whined.
"Fine. When did you schedule this all-around blind date?"
"Friday night. We are having dinner at the Ritz Carlton."
"Hmm… some blind date. I don't think men who take women out to the Ritz are looking for a menage á trois."
Elizabeth laughed. "You're right. I didn't think of that."
Jane hung up the phone.
Elizabeth called back Charles Bingley and set the time, and what she would be wearing. She gave the name of her sister as the person she would bring.
William stood by while Charles chatted some time with Elizabeth. It killed him to see his friend talk so easily with her. When every word that came out of his mouth was labored. Charles finally hung up.
"Jane Bennet?"
"Sister, very good-looking. Blonde, petite, and cerulean blue eyes."
"A veritable angel, would you say?"
"Very."
End of Act IV
Act V Scene I
Int. Brookline Village Apartment and Beacon Hill Townhouse
Friday Evening
Elizabeth ran around her apartment looking for her Joan & David shoes to go with her pantsuit. She opted out of wearing a dress so as not to be predictable. Jane came over looking ravishing as ever.
"Remind me to tell you after this night is over that I hate you," Elizabeth said running from room to room.
"Now, what?"
"You always look gorgeous, and I somehow look like a dump truck."
"What time are we supposed to meet them?"
"I was smart and scheduled dinner for eight-thirty." She found her shoes and walked into the long hallway. "So, how do I look?"
"Lizzy, you could've given him some leg," she laughed. Elizabeth cuffed her sister on the shoulder. "I think brown looks good on you. It does something about your eyes. They look richer."
"Okay," she rolled her eyes.
"So… should we call a cab? I don't feel like driving on Newbury Street on a Friday evening."
"Fine. The number to the cab service is on the fridge."
William tried explaining again and again why he would be showing up forty-five minutes late for dinner, but it was to no avail. Charles decided to be pigheaded at the wrong moment.
"Charles, just explain that I was tied up and couldn't break free from having drinks with a business client," he sighed in frustration.
"We have reservations. If you don't show up, William, I will…"
"What? I'm just trying to… Charles, just explain that I'm running late and will be there."
He walked his friend to the car. "Enjoy your date with Elizabeth." He said strangely.
"I can't wait. You never did tell me what she looked liked."
"Give Jane my apologies, but for God sakes, don't make it seem as though I am standing her up!"
"Ah, the veritable angel."
"One other thing, as blonde as Jane is, Elizabeth is much darker in coloration and countenance," William quickly walked away, and left Charles shaking his head.
The doorman helped Jane and Elizabeth out of the cab. Elizabeth pulled her coat tightly together and took Jane's arm as they headed into the hotel. She felt the butterflies in her stomach, and didn't think she'd be able to keep any food down.
"I don't think I can do this, Jane." She whispered.
"Hush, Lizzy, of course you can. Stop acting like a baby. Remember, I'm doing this for you and you only. Listen, I'm going to the ladies room, wait in the lobby on the couch, just like he told you. He'll find you."
"You can't leave me now." She pleaded.
"Elizabeth, go!"
Elizabeth quickly checked the coats and waited in the lobby for her date. Charles saw Elizabeth from the distance. Very nice, he smiled to himself; however, he had this ironic feeling that by the time this night was over, she would have absolutely nothing to do with him.
He took long strides and reached his destination with seconds. "Miss Bennet? Charles Bingley." He smiled brightly to her.
"Hello, Mr. Bingley." He took her proffered hand and lightly kissed it. "Are you alone?"
His smile faded slightly, "I am but, my friend will be joining us at nine-fifteen. He had drinks with clients that he couldn't get out of. And you, are you alone?"
"Oh, no. Jane is powdering her nose."
"Ah," was all he managed to say. "I did manage to change the reservation. I thought we could have drinks before he arrived."
"So what is the name of this fourth person, by the way?" She asked as Jane sauntered over.
Charles turned to Jane. "Hello." Charles took her hand and kissed it. She looked shyly away.
"Very nice to meet you, sir." She drawled softly. Elizabeth watched with astonishment the transaction between her sister and her date.
"Should we head in and order our drinks?" Charles took Elizabeth's and Jane's arm and led them to the bar.
For some unknown reason, Elizabeth felt as though she was the outsider. Jane had managed to monopolize most of Charles' attention. Elizabeth was able to explain life at the Globe, and how she felt the Presidential election would go.
Every five minutes, she checked her watch, and wondered when and if she could bail out on them. Elizabeth tried to rationalize that Charles smiled to much and was way too happy. You couldn't bring him down. He found fault with no one. Elizabeth did like the idea of someone catching Jane's fancy other than Harvey. She smiled and sipped her drink.
Charles realized how bored Elizabeth looked and tried repeatedly to bring her into the conversation. When he checked his watch, he noticed the time and smiled with the knowledge that William would be there shortly. The host walked over to the bar and told them that their table was ready for them. Charles helped Jane into her seat first then walked Elizabeth to her seat. A single white rose graced the fine china.
William arrived at the hotel at nine, and paced outside the restaurant. He wanted to turn back and forget this. This was ludicrous. He could hear her denounce him and he could see the anger on her face. At least she would acknowledge him. Negatively, but it was an acknowledgment. He straightened his tie, brushed off his suit and calmly, yet quickly, walked into the restaurant.
Elizabeth thanked Charles for the rose, and noticed a pink carnation sitting on Jane's plate. Charles seemed momentarily taken aback. He had no prior knowledge of flowers being placed on the china. Elizabeth sensed his confusion.
"White. For friendship?" Elizabeth questioned.
"Ah, oh yes, for friendship. Jane, I hope you do like pink carnations."
She smiled meekly and lowered her eyes, flirting with him. "I do, very much so."
"Good, good. Well, my friend should be here anytime now. I readily expect him to walk in that door." Elizabeth turned around to see if anyone was coming. With the way Jane and Charles were practically pawing at her, at least she'd have someone to talk to.
William was escorted to the table by the Maitre'D. Before the table came into view he took a deep breath and exhaled.
Charles brightened when William came into view. "Ah, I see that my friend has finally arrived." Charles stood and greeted his friend. William sat down beside Jane and across from Elizabeth. Who was momentarily stunned and speechless.
"Good evening," William said cautiously. Jane gasped. Elizabeth just stared. Nothing was in focus, everything sounded muffled.
Suddenly everything came into focus and the sound was crystal clear. She could hear people chattering in the background. She heard a fork hit the bare floor. Her thoughts became unmuddled, and before she knew what was going on, she spoke:
"I think this is cruel joke to play on two unwitting people." She turned to Charles. "Is this your idea of making fun of my sister who has been dating a married man for four years, by setting her up with a married man?"
Jane cringed, "Elizabeth!"
Charles expected this and was ready. "I did not set her up with a married man. And whether your sister is dating or seeing or sleeping with a married man, I don't think that is my business, nor does it need to be public. I asked you to dinner to see William and talk to him."
"Why would you ask me out on a date with the pretense of…" she glared at William.
Charles tried again, "I would never willingly hurt anyone." He turned to Jane and smiled. "Especially a beautiful woman like your sister. Now we can have a nice dinner, have some drinks and dessert. Some wonderful conversation. And Elizabeth, just for the record, William is in the process of getting divorced."
"Oh that's terrible, Mr. Darcy," Jane said soothingly.
"It's for the best." He said not taking his eyes off of Elizabeth. She was staring at the white china plate sitting in front of her.
A waiter stopped by and took their drink order. Elizabeth shocked all by ordering a straight scotch. The rest of the party stuck with white wine.
"White rose, William. What does that represent?" Elizabeth asked hotly.
"Friendship." He answered quietly.
"Pink carnation, William?"
"Friendship."
"Why should I stay?" she said right to him.
"I would like you to stay."
"Anyway, I will stay. I am on a date with Charles Bingley, am I not?"
William smiled, "You are indeed. Charles, are you willing to keep your date with Miss Bennet?"
Charles seemed confused, "Which one?"
"Elizabeth Bennet."
Charles smiled. "So you'll stay?" She nodded.
"Jane would be upset if I pulled her away now. Besides, I'd like to hear why Mr. Darcy is getting divorced."
"I can answer that easily," Charles said happily, "Because Spring was a …"
"Charles." William gave him a stern look. "It didn't work out. Sometimes one marries the wrong person." He said simply.
After dinner and dessert, Charles thought a walk down Newbury Street would help the digestive system. After a couple of scotches, Elizabeth wasn't really willing or able to argue with anyone. She felt good, if a little drunk.
Jane and Charles walked ahead of William, while Elizabeth fell behind watching the cars, and people scurrying to nightclubs in the area. William stopped and waited for Elizabeth to catch up.
"I was hoping we could talk," he said hopefully.
"Speak." She said loosely.
"Are you feeling okay?" he said in a concerned manner.
"I feel fine, although I may need another drink soon." She laughed. He offered her his arm, which she took, surprising herself and him.
"I would like to have my friend back. I could use one right now."
"I don't know." She finally said.
"Elizabeth, please. I've hurt you, I know that. But it wasn't done purposefully at all."
"But how do I know that you won't want more than just friendship?"
"You won't. I would eventually like to be more to you. But I realize that I must take baby steps."
Charles and Jane slowed down considerably, and told the two of them that they decided they wanted to finish the evening together and they quickly hopped into a waiting cab.
"Well, it looks like we've been dumped by our dates." They continued walking down the street; crossing over to Boylston Street.
"Do you remember when I told you that you were an attractive woman, all those years ago?"
"How could I forget. I called you a pig."
"It was the beginning of this strange friendship."
"Very strange friendship. I think Jane and Charles hit it off." She shivered, and he took his coat off and wrapped it around her shoulders.
"How would you like to go for that drink?"
She agreed.
Elizabeth sipped her red wine. William sat watching her.
"You still have the most beautiful eyes, Elizabeth."
She bit her lip and took another sip. "I still will not sleep with you."
He laughed. "Can you perform for me like you did last year?" he winked at her.
"I've given up my drama class. I still cannot believe I did that!"
With every sip she became the old Elizabeth, funny, witty, incredible to be around. And William found himself in the same predicament as always, wanting to kiss her. But he knew that he couldn't, no matter how badly he wanted to.
Yet, he did let it slip out that he wanted to be more to her than just friends. Did she hear him or was she willingly ignoring him. People got up on the dance floor to dance to fast songs and slow songs. William asked Elizabeth if she would dance with him.
"I'm still a lousy dancer, and most likely, I will step on your feet." She laughed.
"Doesn't matter." He held her hand out to her. The first song was a fast upbeat tempo song that had William and Elizabeth laughing and moving all over the dance floor. She was a good dancer. After several fast songs, the DJ finally played a slow song on request. William asked Elizabeth if she would dance this one with him. She smiled at him and gave her hand to him.
What would you think if I told you
I've always wanted to hold you?
I don't know what we're afraid of
Nothing would change if we made love.
Elizabeth smiled up to him. "I'm really sorry about your marriage, William." She said softly.
"Shhhh." He whispered in her ear.
So I'll be your friend
And I'll be your lover
'Cause I know in our hearts we agree
We don't have to be one or the other
Oh, no, we could be both to each other.Yes it's a chance that we're taking
And somebody's heart may be breaking
Oooh, but we can't stop what's inside us
Our love for each other will guide us.
Elizabeth moved her hands behind his neck, and he gently stroked her back. She started playing with the back of his hair.
"I shouldn't be doing this, should I?"
"Shhhh." He whispered again.
So I'll be your friend
And I'll be your lover
'Cause I know in our hearts we agree
We don't have to be one or the otherI've been through you
You've been through me
Sometimes a friend is the hardest to see
And we always know when it's laid on the line
Nobody else is as easy to find
William softly brushed his lips against her neck. Causing her to shiver.
"We shouldn't be doing this. Oh," she said, as his lips found the spot behind her ear, that reduced her to nothing. The impulse of the moment made her bring her lips to his neck, and she gently kissed it.
So I'll be your friend
(I'll be)
And I'll be your lover
Cause I'll be your friend
(I'll be)
And I'll be your lover
'Cause I know in our hearts we agree
We don't have to be one or the other
Oh, no, we could be both to each other.
"Love me, Elizabeth." He kissed her passionately.
End of Scene I