Beginning, Section II, Section III
Act V Scene II
Int. Yolanda's Bridal Shoppe, Waltham, MA
Three Month's Later
Jane stood on the pedestal as the woman took up the hem to the wedding dress. Elizabeth sat looking through magazines, looking thoroughly bored. She sipped her cold tea. A young woman kept handing Jane different headdresses.
"I can't believe after only three month's you're actually marrying the guy," Elizabeth said for the hundredth time.
"We saw, we came, we conquered. We fell in love, Lizzy. It happens to normal people, you know."
"But what of Harvey? How did he handle all this?" What the hell am I saying!
"Harvey took it hard, and I tried to be gentle. He thought that we could still see each other after I was married, but I told him that it was over. He seemed quite put out, though. He said that he nearly sacrificed his marriage for me."
"Idiot!"
Jane turned around and faced Elizabeth. "So, what do you think?"
Elizabeth felt tears come to her eyes. "Oh Jane, you are so beautiful. Charles is one lucky guy to get you."
Jane stepped down from the pedestal and rushed to hug her sister. "Elizabeth, I love you to pieces. But you have to find someone."
"I know, I just don't know what I want."
Jane sighed tiredly, "Elizabeth, there is one person out there who would go to the end of the world for you -- and you push him away, every time."
"I prefer to not talk about him, thank you. We are not compatible."
She quirked her eyebrow at her sister. "Go and try on the navy blue dress. You do realize that William is going to be the best man at the wedding. You will have to endure him."
"You couldn't elope, could you?" she grinned at Jane before heading into the dressing room.
Charles tried on several cummerbunds and vests, each time not liking anything. He didn't think this was going to be as difficult as it was. But he wanted to look perfect on his wedding day.
"You know it shouldn't be this difficult. But I have absolutely no clue what color I want, or if I want a vest or cummerbund. Was it this difficult for you, Will?"
William came out of the clouds, "What?"
"Your marriage to Spring. When shopping for tuxedos, did you agonize over colors and styles?"
"I got married in a navy-blue Armani business suit, by a Japanese Justice of the Peace or equivalent."
"We are having people over to the house within the next two weeks, we would like you to be there. However, Elizabeth will also be there, too."
"I can deal with her," he said resolutely. "Can I bring a someone?"
"Oh really, a date?"
"Sort of," he smiled.
"I don't see why not. This wouldn't be to make Elizabeth jealous would it."
William shot him a horrendous look, "Listen, I'm done with her. She made it well known that she does not want a relationship with me."
"But you did get pretty far with her that night."
"No Charles, she slapped me and accused me of taking advantage of her in her drunken state."
"Do you love her?"
He made no answer.
"I said, do you love her?"
"I don't know anymore. She drives me crazy. She makes me mad. I feel like lashing out at things. I actually yelled at one of the administrative assistants the other day. I mean I really screamed at her."
"Well bring your date. We'll tell Elizabeth that we are inviting couples; because originally it was just you and she who would've been coming solo anyway. She'll be forced to find a date for the evening herself."
William needed to change the subject quickly, "So has Jane finally dumped that married man?"
"Like a hot potato." They both laughed.
"I think you should go with the navy blue, Charles."
One Week Later
Elizabeth stared at the new monitor of her computer screen, watching the wavy lines go up and down, up and down. Lou watched as Elizabeth seemed to be daydreaming.
"Bennet, what the hell are you doing?"
"Thinking of a great story, Lou. Why?" she asked defiantly.
"Because you have a visitor."
"Who is it?"
"What do I look like, your secretary? Go downstairs and find out."
Elizabeth sighed and headed to the elevator. She walked to the front entrance and at the door stood her soon to be brother-in-law.
"Charles, this is a surprise."
"I thought we could have lunch, is there a cafeteria here?"
"Do you want to live long enough to get married?" she cracked.
"Yes, I guess I do. Listen, it would be better if we got out of here anyway. Do you have a preference."
"How about Kelly's Roast Beef in Revere, traffic is light at this time of the afternoon. We can eat in your car." Charles smiled and agreed with her.
It took less than fifteen minutes to go to Revere Beach. However the chill in the air, made Elizabeth stay in the car, and she sent Charles out to get the food. Elizabeth was looking forward to her clam plate.
Ten minutes later, the two sat companionably in the car eating.
"So why did you take me out to lunch?"
"You will tell me if I'm meddling right?" she nodded her head. "I wanted to tell you, before I told Jane, that next week at the get together Jane and I are throwing, William will be bringing a date. I wanted you to be forewarned. And I want you to bring someone too."
"Oh." She dunked her onion ring into the tartar sauce. "Well, okay then, I guess I can find a date. But who to bring, I mean I have men just knocking down my door." She said sarcastically.
"Elizabeth, you have a man who is so in love with you and has been for years! You are the most infuriating person, how can you be this way. How can you treat William this way!"
"I wanted a friend, Charles. He said men and women cannot be friends, and you know what he's right. He let his romantic sensibilities get in the way. He's the one who got married…"
"And that marriage ended, and he came back for you! Dammit, Elizabeth. I now know why he says you drive him crazy!"
"He said that?" she said soberly.
"Listen, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have told you that. Find a date, please. I don't want any problems at this party. Think of your sister."
Elizabeth fought back the tears. "Fine."
End of Scene II
Act V Scene III
Int. Jane and Charles' Back Bay Brownstone
One Week Later
Jane and Charles welcomed five couples to their brand-new brownstone. Keith came with Amanda, Paul came with Sarah, Thomas brought Sam, Jeff brought his wife Angela, Marty had Mary tagging along…
…and William brought Fallon. Jane tried her best to be civil to Fallon.
"So Fallon…"
"Oh, please call me Fall. Everyone does, no one calls me by my Christian name."
Jane turned to Charles and shrugged her shoulders. "Well Fall it is. William, would you help me in the kitchen?" Charles took Fall and introduced her to everyone.
William followed Jane into the kitchen and looked around. Everything seemed to be in order, his confused look made Jane speak.
"Are you planning on bringing her to the wedding?"
"I hadn't thought of it. Why do you ask?"
"Why did you bring her?" she questioned. Her tone harder than she had originally intended.
"Do I need to justify what I do in my private life? And to you?" he said angrily.
Jane slumped into a chair. "I'm sorry, Will."
He interrupted, "I know you love your sister. But I have to go on with my life too."
"She's a damned fool, Will. A complete fool. I don't know what to do to make her see reason anymore. But I need to know. Please be honest, do you still love her?"
William wiped his face with his hands. "I can't answer that, Jane." She looked at him for a long time.
"I don't know who's more stubborn -- you or her. Go back to your date. Elizabeth should be here shortly. Also, I've heard that she does have a date."
Charles came into the kitchen after William had left and wrapped his arms around Jane. "It won't work, darling. They have to come together on their own. We can't force anything."
"But I know that my sister does love him. Why she won't admit it, is beyond me."
"Don't let it worry you. Let's enjoy this party." He gave her a long kiss and helped her with the appetizers.
Elizabeth arrived half an hour late. Jane was very happy when she did show up. Charles greeted her and her date, Joey Tribbiani. An extremely good-looking man from Newton.
"Elizabeth, we were to beginning to think you weren't going to show up." Charles said when she entered the living room.
"Oh, we were a bit tied up." She smiled. Joey squeezed her closer.
"Isn't Liz beautiful tonight?" Joey remarked.
Elizabeth did indeed look incredible. She wore a short sweater dress that accented her svelte curves. Elizabeth laughed and kissed Joey. "He's too kind."
"How long have you known Miss Bennet?" a male voice asked.
"I'm sorry, I didn't catch who asked that?" Joey turned around to the guests assembled in the room.
William raised his hand. "I did. I was wondering how long you've known her."
"We've known each other for a couple of months, Mr. Darcy." She smiled to him. Elizabeth leaned into Joey and whispered who he was. Joey smiled and said hello.
"Elizabeth, you haven't met William's date." Jane remarked, as she pointed to a pretty brunette sitting beside him. "Lizzy, this is Fall." Elizabeth looked at William and smiled prettily to him.
"Fall? That is an unusual name."
The other woman laughed. "Well my name is Fallon, but everyone has called me Fall since I was knee high to a grasshopper."
"Indeed. You seem to round things out completely." She smiled and sat down beside Joey who had taken a seat on the sofa. Fall looked strangely at her and turned back to William who gently smiled to her.
Charles passed around glasses of champagne to make a toast. First he toasted the best man and maid of honor, William and Elizabeth. Then he toasted his fiancée. Who gave him a big kiss.
After dinner, Charles brought out the large easel and explained that Pictionary would be the game that would be played. As the last time, Trivial Pursuit was taken out, and a fight broke out.
Teams were announced, and Elizabeth was the first person chosen to play. Jane was timekeeper.
Elizabeth went to the easel and started drawing circles connecting them.
"It's a monkey, It's a monkey!" Joey yelled out. "It's monkey see, monkey do!" She turned to him and shook her head no. "It's an ape. Going ape."
She connected some more circles – with it making more sense. "It's a baby," Fall guessed correctly.
"Planet of the Apes." Joey yelled out.
William retorted back, "How can it be Planet of the Apes if she said it was a baby. How about planet of the dopes." Elizabeth glared at William. "Mick Jagger's lips." William said.
Charles piped up with: "It doesn't actually look like a baby." Elizabeth had arrows shooting out from the lips connecting it with the baby.
Keith commented, "big mouth baby."
William said, "Baby's breath."
Someone yelled out baby boom and kiss the baby.
Joey guessed, "Baby fishmouth, baby fishmouth!"
William antagonized, "What is a baby fishmouth?"
Paul pleaded, "Draw something resembling anything."
Jane interjected. "fifteen seconds."
Elizabeth hecticly drew on the tableau, getting clearly frustrated.
Fall jumped in, "Yes sir, that's my baby."
William laughed, "No sir, I don't mean maybe. Rosemary's baby." He added.
"Time." Jane announced.
Elizabeth turned to the crowd, and said, "Baby talk."
"Where does it look anything remotely like baby talk?" Joey asked.
Darcy glared at Joey, and said, "Oh, and baby fishmouth is sweeping the nation."
Elizabeth headed into Joey's open arms. "I can't draw. I'm terrible."
"You were perfect" he kissed her nose. "What's up with that guy?"
Elizabeth looked squarely in William's eyes. "Nothing. Just ignore him. That's the best advice I can give you."
Jane came up to Elizabeth. "Will you help me with the coffee?"
"Sure." She kissed Joey again and headed into the kitchen with Jane.
Once in the kitchen, Elizabeth pulled a cake out of the box, and Jane got ready the coffee.
"William's girlfriend is very young." Elizabeth remarked.
"Yes she is. But she is very accomplished."
"How can someone so young, be so accomplished?"
"Well she makes about two thousand chocolate orgasms * a week."
Elizabeth stopped what she was doing, "You mean she owns Rosie's bakery?"
Jane nodded her head. "That young thing is Rosie?" Again, Jane nodded her head.
"So William does indeed get his orgasms then." She smiled. Jane gasped. "Sorry, private joke." She laughed.
"Elizabeth, don't you think you are overdoing it with Joey?"
"No. Joey and I enjoy each other's company."
"So why were you late?"
Elizabeth smiled. "He helped me pick out the dress."
"You are heading for meltdown, Elizabeth. You will crash and burn and no one, absolutely no one will be around for you." Elizabeth poured a glass of wine.
"Jane, enough."
William and Charles headed into his library as he wanted to see the new collection of leather-bound Shakespeare that Charles ordered.
"Who is that Joey person she is with. Does he use only one-fourth of his brain."
"I would imagine that you are jealous of this person."
William turned away from the bookshelf. "Hardly. But they do seem quite intimate."
Charles pulled a book off the shelf and handed it to William. He gingerly admired it with his fingertips. "Why don't you just admit that you still love her, and that it is killing you watching her kiss another man."
"I'm not that transparent, Charles. You are grabbing at air here."
"No. I've known you for many years. Eventually you two will come together. I have a feeling."
"Well keep your feelings to yourself." He thought he saw the wheels turning in Charles' head. "You don't have any surprises for us at the wedding, do you?"
"No, of course not." Charles said.
After several hours of the potpourri of guests, Elizabeth headed out to the terrace to clear her head. The wine was starting to affect her, and before she could do anything to embarrass herself, she thought it wise to be alone for a while.
She leaned against the railing, not realizing that William had been out on the terrace for fifteen minutes. He hid in the shadows, watching her. The music that Jane had put on had wafted out onto the terrace and slowly, Elizabeth started swaying. She pulled her hair down and fluffed out the curls.
Still swaying in time to the music, she said softly, "Oh William, if only you knew…" she closed her eyes and envisioned him wrapping his arms softly around her waist. Gently kissing her neck. Slowly turning her around to kiss her lips. She brought her hands around her waist and hugged herself tightly. She remembered his kiss. Their first kiss. Their last kiss. "Elizabeth, you are such a fool." She said to herself. She slowly turned and sat down on the chaise bringing her fingers to her lips in remembrance. She closed her eyes.
She turned back around and looked out over the Charles River. Moving more slowly to the music. Closing her eyes again, she imagined dancing in this manner with him. Closely, hips moving in time. His lips finding her neck, her cheeks and her lips. Elizabeth moved her hands to her hair. William slowly descended from the shadows.
"Don't stop." He pleaded.
She whirled around. "Oh. I didn't know you were here." He came closer to her.
"Elizabeth, dance with me."
She gave her hand willingly. He pulled her closer to him and wrapped his arms around her waist.
Sometimes you wonder if this fight is worthwhile.
The precious moments are all lost in the tide, yea.
They're swept away and nothing is what is seems,
the feeling of belonging to your dreams.
And there are voices that want to be heard.
So much to mention but you can't find the words.
The scent of magic, the beauty that's been when love was wilder than the wind.
She rested her head comfortably on his shoulder.
He took a deep breath. Hoping it would kill the urge to kiss her. He failed. Elizabeth looked up to him and smiled serenely.
Another song came on, it was the same song that was on when they kissed.
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.
"Your date will be wondering where you've disappeared to." She said finally.
"She will keep. Elizabeth, I have to tell you -- I love you."
"Do you realize that you have never once told me that you love me." She smiled up at him. "You demanded from me. You begged me to love you. You kissed me without applying to me first. But you never once told me that you loved me."
"May I kiss …" She pulled his face to hers and kissed him before he could finish his question. He lifted her into his arms. "Can we leave?" he said quickly. She nodded her head. "I'll take you to the townhouse. Meet me downstairs in five minutes."
"But Joey and Fall?"
"Elizabeth, right now, I don't care."
"I know what to do. I'll meet you downstairs in five minutes."
Jane called out to Elizabeth, who had fallen asleep on the chaise.
"Elizabeth, you must be freezing. We wondered where you had disappeared to. The guests are leaving."
"William -- is he leaving with Fall?"
"Well he did come with her. Elizabeth, are you okay?"
Her heart felt a little heavier. "Yeah, I'm fine. I'll come in and say good-bye."
Elizabeth stared thoughtfully at William as he helped Fall on with her coat. She gave him a small smile which he returned.
"Good night, William." She said, as she held out her hand for him. He bent over and kissed it.
"Good night, Elizabeth."
Elizabeth thought fast. "Oh William, you left your gloves in the other room. I saw them on the table in the conservatory." William looked strangely at her. Fall was talking with Jane and didn't notice William walk back to the conservatory. Elizabeth followed behind. She shut the door behind her.
"Are you taking her home or to your home?"
He seemed momentarily stunned. "What?"
"Do you have plans with her tonight?"
He laughed nervously. "I don't see where that would be any business to you."
"I thought maybe we could have drinks tonight. After we sent home our dates."
"Why?"
"If I told you now," she said quickly, "then drinks wouldn't be necessary. Please, William?"
"I'll have Henry pick you up at eleven thirty. Elizabeth, what are you expecting?"
She smiled sweetly, "Nothing. Just friendship."
* Author's Note: Chocolate Orgasms are Chocolate brownies with frosting, nuts, etc.. It's the best selling item in Rosie's Bakery.
End of Scene III
Act V Scene IV
Int. Fidelity Car parked outside Elizabeth's Brookline Village Apartment.
Elizabeth rushed from the house and into the waiting car. She smiled when she saw William sitting inside.
"The thing about limousines is one never knows who's going to be inside of it." She teased. He smiled at her.
She noted his long legs stretched out comfortably. He was dressed differently than he had been earlier. More relaxed. Cream colored turtleneck sweater and light gray trousers. He was also wearing wire-rimmed glasses. Elizabeth was glad that she decided against wearing the same dress, and put on a red cashmere sweater and black pants.
Elizabeth turned to the driver and said hello. The driver initiated small talk while William watched Elizabeth joke and laugh with the driver.
"Well miss, you are certainly a sight for sore old eyes." Henry said.
"Oh, but doesn't Mr. Darcy keep you busy picking up people. Especially at all hours of the night. I wonder at when you get any sleep." She turned to William and laughed at him.
"That man hasn't used me in months. I was surprised when I got the call tonight. I was even more surprised when I was given your address." He indicated for her to come closer. "He looks good tonight, no?"
"Indeed, he does, sir. But then again, he always does." She whispered back to him. She spoke in a more normal tone. "But Henry, didn't you pick up and drop off Fall?"
William moved agitatedly in his seat, and decided to end this tête-à-tête. "I thought about taking a walk along the shore, rather than getting you, undoubtedly, extremely inebriated."
Elizabeth laughed. "It's the middle of December. I could see if you wanted to do this in August or July, but not now."
"It's a mild night. Perfect for a walk. Henry, take us to Marblehead." He now spoke to Elizabeth. "We can go to the lighthouse, I've just purchased it."
She sat back and watched him closely. This was going to be more difficult than she had planned. Henry put on some soft contemporary music and raised the partition and hoped that these two lovesick puppies would finally get it on.
"Did you enjoy your time at Charles' and Jane's?" Well that's a stupid question, Liz.
"It was nice. You seemed to have a wonderful time, with that Joey person. He seemed to be enjoying your company." He wished he hadn't said that.
She narrowed her eyes at him. "He's a very nice person. Fall must be a very interesting, a baker."
"She is an entrepreneur, not a baker, Elizabeth."
"Entrepreneur - baker, columnist - reporter. It's all the same, isn't it."
"Did you want to see me to question my taste in women?"
She shot him a furious look, then softened a bit, "No. I'm sorry." He seemed to relax a bit more. "You were watching me tonight." She said matter-of-factly. "You were out on the terrace, and you saw me dancing."
"I did."
"But yet you stayed hidden in the shadows. Until I fell asleep and you kissed me."
Henry had come to a sudden stop and Elizabeth fell into William's arms. He subtly managed to pull her just a little closer.
Henry lowered the partition. "Are you two okay back there? We've come up to some construction in the road. We should be moving along anytime now." Elizabeth reluctantly disengaged herself from his grasp.
"Are you all right?" he asked softly.
"Just a little stunned. I'm fine. Henry, we're fine back here. Just give a us a little warning the next time, okay?"
"You've got it. I'll put the partition up again. Do you like the music?"
"It's beautiful, Henry." Elizabeth said.
Henry put up the partition. William had opened up the moon roof and was staring at the illuminating stars. He'd had her in his arms -- exactly where she should be, and he did nothing. Absolutely nothing. Elizabeth had similar thoughts running through her mind.
A silence came over the car and whether it was comfortable or not, it was interminable to both passengers. Henry silently yelled at William for passing up a chance opportunity with the pretty little lady. He listened to the quiet in the back. He knew that if Mr. Darcy knew he had had the intercom on and was listening to the two of them, he would be very angry. But something had to give.
Henry pulled into a darkened parking lot in Marblehead, and told the two passengers that they were at their final destination. William alighted from the car first and then helped Elizabeth. She wrapped her scarf loosely around her neck.
"Don't forget your gloves, William." She teased him as he was putting them on. "Wonderful night for a walk, it must be twenty-eight degrees out here."
"Wait a minute." He headed to Henry and had him pop open the trunk and pulled out a small woolen blanket that he wrapped around her shoulders. "Warm enough?"
"A roaring fire and some red wine would have been more to my liking."
"Now, you tell me." He laughed. She grinned at him and started walking.
William couldn't look at her. Because he knew if he did, all would be lost and he'd be begging her to love him and to let him love her. Elizabeth sensed the distance that he exuded and started speaking:
"You must allow me to apologize. I have treated you horribly. I do want to be friends. I value your friendship more than anything right now. It would be nice to have your friendship around the holidays."
"I see."
"William, I haven't been involved with anyone." She stopped walking. "After the engagement ended, I gave up. I'm too old and most men don't want a thirty-two year old woman, when they have twenty-five year old women instead. Like you and Fall. I became scared, and closed off my heart. It seemed easier that way. I had to prove that I was in control of my emotions, and that I wasn't going to let Joe get to me."
He looked thoughtfully at her. She continued on:
"When you proposed to me, I thought it all wrong. The timing and your attitude. Had you waited until I had time to heal, and come to an understanding that my relationship with you was slowly changing. Even though I fought it. I didn't and couldn't get involved with you. I really always valued your friendship. However, I believed that all changed when I met your wife. I knew then that I was destined to live in a state of perpetual stoppage. Never really going forward or backwards. I don't want to spend another Christmas or New Years wondering if I'll be able to have my friend back."
"I never left Elizabeth."
"But you did. Please, just tell me that we can be friends. Remember what you said about baby steps. Please?"
End of Scene IV
Act V Scene V
Int. Devonshire St, Boston, MA Fidelity Hdqtrs and Morrissey Blvd. Dorchester, MA Boston Globe Hdqtrs.
William Darcy rushed out of his meeting, and quickly ran to the nearest phone.. He dialed the number and cursed that it took so long for it to be answered.
"Bennet, here."
"Elizabeth, finally." He said urgently.
"William, what's wrong?"
"Nothing, it's all right that's what it is." He laughed.
"You're not making any sense. What are you yakking about?" she laughed back.
"I have absolutely wonderful news. No scratch that, it's two-fold."
"Okay, you have my full attention. Now tell me."
"The good news or the wonderful news? Which do you want first."
"William!"
He couldn't contain his excitement. "All right then, the good news. You are now talking to the new Managing Director of the Fixed Income Group -- Domestic desk."
"That's incredible! I'm so happy for you." She furrowed her brows together, quite clearly confused. "But isn't that wonderful news?"
"It gets better, Liz." He had never called her that before, and liked the ring to it.
"Well, it must be if you're calling me Liz. What?"
"I'm a free man. My lawyer called, the divorce is final; and what do you say about the two of us going out and celebrating -- two-fold!"
"Wonderful!"
He paused for a moment. "I have a better idea. Can you leave work early?"
Elizabeth looked at her calendar. "I have no meetings or deadlines, so yes, I can."
"Let me ring you back in ten minutes, okay?"
"William, you are so strange today."
"I'm happier than I've been in a long time. I'll ring you right back."
William called Giorgio Armani's on Newbury Street and gave them Elizabeth's address, and told them to outfit her in the sleekest dress they had. He also wanted Elizabeth dripping in diamonds tonight. He knew exactly what pieces would be perfect for her. The sales lady at Armani's coordinated with the salesman at Tiffany's and were told to be at her place at four-thirty.
He called her back in twenty minutes. Gave her the outline of what to do and where to be. But gave her no indication as to what they would do that evening.
Surprise was the order of the day, as soon as she walked in the front door, a delivery van dropped off four dozen winter white roses. Soon after the flower guy left, a representative from the top fashion and jewelry stores arrived. Reluctantly she let them in.
The sales lady from Armani pulled out a short black dress with mosaic beads in burnt orange, reds and browns. Elizabeth adored the dress, saw the price, then laughed. She was in tears when she saw the price of the diamonds.
The sales lady had to practically force Elizabeth to try on the dress. "That man must love you a lot if he knows your size. He was one hundred percent dead on -- a perfect size six."
"But I still don't understand why you are here."
The Tiffany's salesman explained to her that Mr. Darcy called and said to dress up the best friend he's ever had, and that was exactly what they were doing. Elizabeth excused herself while she phoned him.
"What are you doing?" she tried to say calmly into the phone.
"Elizabeth, just get dressed. We have dinner reservations at eight-thirty, and it will take us a while to get there. I'll pick you up at six-thirty. Just look deadly okay?"
"Deadly? Oh, you have lost it. So where are we going?"
"Why can't you just be surprised?"
"The element of surprise scares me. I like things meticulously plotted."
"Okay, I have meticulously plotted. But you don't need to know yet. Just get dressed." And he quickly hung up the phone.
Elizabeth went back to the intruders and tried on the dress, which did indeed look deadly on her. The diamonds complemented perfectly. Nothing too big, nothing too small. Just perfect.
Jane had stopped by to surprise her sister and ended up being surprised herself when she saw people hemming and hawing over her sister.
"William?" was all Jane could say between laughing.
"I'll kill him, when I do see him. This is ridiculous."
"Lizzy, you look beautiful. Enjoy it, most men don't dress up their women."
"Jane, he called me Liz." She said seriously.
"Oh Lizzy, he's finally loosening up. Just enjoy the evening, you never know what might come out of it."
"Friendship, maybe. He'll be here shortly, can we continue this later?" Jane hugged her sister and wished her good night.
William arrived punctually at six-thirty. Dressed in black tuxedo with white braces and tie. Elizabeth felt her heart skip about three beats. Beautiful, she kept repeating over and over. Along with he's just a friend, he's just a friend. He was also making this more difficult than it needed to be. William wasn't afforded the luxury of seeing the dress; it was hidden under her satin swing coat, but he knew it had to be black if she was wearing black patent leather pumps and the sheerest black stocking. He gazed at her shapely leg, as he helped her into the car.
Henry beamed at the two of them. "Who's getting married?"
"No, Henry, we are celebrating a divorce. Mr. Darcy is free to play the field." She realized what she had just said and looked blankly out the window.
"What, Elizabeth?" He comprehended what she had just said, and squeezed her hand. "No playing the field for me. So do I get to see the dress?"
"Not quite. Tell me where we are going."
William leaned forward to talk to Henry. "How long before we get to Logan?"
"Logan!"
"Yes, we have reservations for dinner in New York
"You are whisking me off to New York?" he nodded his head.
"Will you describe the dress for me?"
She laughed and playfully hit his leg. "Henry, no sudden stops tonight. Don't want Mr. Darcy thinking I'm throwing myself at him."
Henry looked through the rear-view mirror. "Well if you switch seats, then Mr. Darcy can fall into your arms."
"Hmm… that's not such a bad idea." She winked at William.
Bantering between Henry and Elizabeth brought much joy to William. He enjoyed watching the old coot try his best in bringing Elizabeth around. A reason that William noted to himself as the reason why he used Henry more than he needed. Henry had them safely at Logan Airport within a couple of minutes, and soon they were in the air.
Landing at LaGuardia at exactly eight, William hailed a cab and gave an address rather than give away the name of where they were going. Elizabeth refused to remove the coat, but William had a better time gaping at her legs. He was tempted from time to time to stroke it. But better judgment took over impulse.
"I think you should tell me where we are going. You played the game this long."
"Not yet. You must be patient."
She sat back in the cab and waited for their final destination to come into focus.
Elizabeth looked up at the sign and felt tears sting. "Tavern on the Green?"
"We can dance, have great food, wonderful ambiance, company and conversation. Elizabeth, I really am very happy." She gave him a hug, took his arm and walked into the restaurant with him.
Elizabeth shyly removed the satin swing coat, and to the amazement of most men in the room showed a lot of décolletage. Her spaghetti strap dress hung low over the curvature of her front and came just above the knee. William nearly tripped over his tongue.
"Do you not like it." She stared at his blank look.
"No, no. It's just that… you look… incredible. Absolutely incredible."
"You did say deadly." She smiled up at him.
"I'm slain, and all the men here are jealous of me." He grinned to her. "Elizabeth, you are the most beautiful woman."
"I still will not sleep with you." She teased.
Happily seated and talking animatedly, William and Elizabeth realized together that a friendship could be just as important and even more so, than love.
"…And Lou says something like, well women shouldn't be allowed to do anything remotely dangerous like fight a war. They should stay home and have babies."
"And Elizabeth says…"
"Oh, I let him have it. Soon, women will be on the front lines with men."
"I don't think they belong there either."
"And do you think they should be home birthing babies." She said indignantly.
"No. But war is war, it's for men."
"Even if there are very capable women out there, and isn't that a demeaning thing to say. Women can do things much better than men can. It's a proven fact."
"You're not going to start moaning and gyrating are you?"
Elizabeth realized what she had just said and laughed. "You will not let me live that one down, will you?"
"I had too much fun with it. I will finally admit that I was mortified that you did it at the Bay Tower Room. I'm glad I didn't see any clients there."
"Shall we dance, Will?"
"Will is it?"
"You called me Liz!"
"I like Liz."
"Oh just give me your hand so we can work off this rich food."
Heading out to the dance floor, a woman grabbed William's arm, and asked if she could have at least one dance. Elizabeth smiled sweetly and backed away. Luckily for William he was able to convince the woman that his dance card was filled. Not two minutes later, Elizabeth was using the same excuse.
Taking her in his arms, he felt her bare skin for the first time. And that touch was explosive. He placed his hand on the middle of her back. Wanting to go lower and lower, but stopping himself.
"I think if Henry could see you know, he'd try and take you away." William whispered in her ear.
"Hmm.."
"Elizabeth, you have made this the best day. Thank you." She just smiled up at him.
For the next song, he pulled her just a little closer, and she placed her head comfortable on his shoulder.
It seems we've stood and talked like this before.
We looked at each other in the same way then.
But I can't remember where or when.
William closed his eyes. He had to tell her that he loved her. He couldn't play this friendship charade. He wanted and needed her. She completed him. The resolve was there, but it frightened him. Surely, she would understand. Surely, she could understand…
The clothes you're wearing are the clothes you wore.
The smile you are smiling, you were smiling then--
But I can't remember where or when.
"Elizabeth, I have to tell you..." He whispered again in her ear. A tapping on his shoulder made him stop dancing and turn around.
"Hello, William."
"Spring."
Elizabeth opened her eyes and looked right at the former Mrs. Darcy.
Some things that happened for the first time
Seem to be happening again.
"Spring, you remember, Miss Bennet."
"How could I forget her. You never did." William took a deep breath. Elizabeth grabbed his hand for support.
"So what brings you to New York? I thought you were in the South of France."
"Well I came to sign the divorce papers, obviously. What brings you to New York?"
William smiled contemptuously to her. "Dinner."
"You flew from Boston to New York for dinner."
"Yes. It was a special dinner."
Elizabeth piped up: "Yes, our engagement." She flashed the diamond ring. William shot her a shocked look. "William and I are officially engaged. We are celebrating. We were having a romantic evening."
"Well you certainly waste no time. You've only become divorced today."
"Why should we wait if we love each other. Actually we've waited ten years, so I don't think we rushed into anything."
"I see." Spring said.
Elizabeth saw the man beside Spring. "Wouldn't proper etiquette be to introduce us to your partner."
Spring became flustered. "This is my fiancé, Shawn McManus. He's an officer in the Marines."
"And when did you two become engaged?" Elizabeth continued on.
"Today." She said softly.
"I see. Well enjoy the rest of your evening. I would like to get back to mine." Elizabeth pulled William away from his ex-wife and started dancing with him again.
And so it seems, that we have met before --
And laughed, before --
And loved, before --
But who knows, where or when
Who knows where or when...
After the song ended, William laughed.
"You're perfect."
"She's wasn't worth it. Really."
"Do you want…"
Elizabeth quickly grabbed his face and kissed him.
End of Act V
Act VI Scene I
Int. Brookline Village Apartment and Beacon Hill Townhouse
January 30, 1990
Elizabeth stared at the phone and wanted to call him. She needed to call him. The tears wouldn't stop. She couldn't eat. She couldn't sleep. She was a mess. She was a spinster. She had finally entered spinsterhood. Destined to live alone forever. She loved him too much, but yet, she was so afraid to give in to him. She was terribly afraid of giving him her heart, only to have him break or worse -- shatter it.
He never would; he loved her too much, and for too long, she tried to rationalize. He treated her so well. Flying her off to New York at a moment's notice. Dressing her up in fine cloths and jewels, that normally, she'd never even look at. But material things didn't impress her. His simple love was what impressed her. She never felt this way around anyone. Not Joey, not the man she almost married.
The man who just called her twenty minutes ago, and told her that he was getting married. To Melissa Russo. A nor'easter had hit over the weekend closing down the city of Boston for two days, no phone service for two days meant no talking to William. She climbed the walls; he was too, wondering if she had enough food, electricity -- heat!
And as soon as the phone service was restored, Joseph Reed called her to tell her the news. Why it bothered her so much, she knew not. What went through her mind was her life alone with maybe seven cats; she hated cats.
With the phone service restored, she gathered up the courage and dialed William's number. She tried to control her voice. She didn't want him to know that she was suffering, yet. She'd wait until he was here in person. Then she'd tell him.
"Hello?" he answered.
"Hi, it's me." She said faintly.
"I've missed you. Are you all right? Do you need anything?"
"Uh-huh."
"What, Liz?" he said lovingly. He had been using the diminutive a lot lately. He loved calling her "Liz".
"Can you come over, please?" she sniffled into the phone.
"Elizabeth, something is wrong. Out with it."
"Will you be my friend, and come over, please?"
"Sure, the roads are passable. I'll be there in about twenty minutes."
"Thank you." They both hung up. William looked at his phone, and thought her very subdued. Which was very odd.
He took out his Jeep Wrangler and headed west down Rt. 9. Some cars were still abandoned on the roads, so maneuvering around them and some traffic was difficult. Thirty-five minutes later, he knocked on Elizabeth's door.
Her eyes were red and swollen, her cheeks tear-stained, and his heart was breaking seeing her walk around listlessly in a tattered bathrobe. He pulled her close to him and gave her a big hug.
"Elizabeth, what has happened." He looked around her apartment and saw used Kleenex all over the floor and tables. "How long have you been crying. Did someone hurt you!" he got angry.
"No one hurt me." She wailed. "It's just that. I'm old and unattractive." He sat her down on the sofa.
"Elizabeth, you are the most beautiful woman I have ever known. You have an incredible body and you have a wonderful sense of humor. Men stare at you all the time. I know, I see it."
The tears spilled from her eyes. "Oh, William. I'm a complete screw up."
He looked at her. "What happened, Elizabeth?
"Elizabeth, you must tell me what happened. I can't help you unless you do."
"He's getting married." She cried some more.
"Who's getting married?"
"Joe. Joseph Reed is marrying that Melissa Russo." Elizabeth got up and headed into her bedroom. William noted more tissues on the floor.
"But it's been over between the two of you for a long time."
"But she was supposed to be his transition, not the 'one'." She fell back on her bed and William cradled her.
He brushed her curly hair off her face, and pulled her closer to him.
"I haven't dated. I took time to mourn. What is so wrong with me."
"Elizabeth, there is nothing wrong with you. Maybe a little stubborn." She laughed.
"I'm too structured. I'm too difficult."
"No, you're a challenge. Would you like some tea?"
She shook her head. "Would you just hold me. Please."
"Shhh. Of course." She looked up at him and smiled. She looked right into his dark brown eyes. And saw something that she hadn't seen before -- hope.
"I'm a terrible person. Horrible person. Destined to live life alone, and I'm gonna be forty."
He looked strangely at her. "When will you be forty?"
She cried, "Someday." He laughed.
She held on to him tightly. "I've been so cruel to you." She snuggled closer to his neck. She placed a leg over his.
"Shhh, Elizabeth. Don't think about that." She snuggled closer to him. Smelling the soap and his cologne mixed together.
He brushed more of her curly hair back away from her face. He noticed her starting to calm down with every stroke. Her bathrobe fell open and revealed everything that he desired. He moved his hand inside the robe and started rubbing her neck and shoulders. She closed her eyes and let him massage her. Her breathing became more regular, and she started to smile.
He moved his hand to her shoulder and down her back. Lightly tracing the outline of the shoulder blades.
"Hmm.. don't stop, feels wonderful." She whispered. He arranged his body to give him more access to her back. A powerful emotion -- love -- took over, and he started kissing her neck and moved up to her cheeks. Kissing her nose, her eyelids and her ears.
She moved her hands up and down his body, searching. She found his neck and kissed it. Working her way up to his cheeks, his nose, his eyelids and his ears. They both sat up and grabbed at each other and they finally found each other's lips. Hungrily and passionately kissing each other until they thought their lips would be bruised. He slowly pulled down her robe and kissed her shoulders and her back.
"I love you, William." Elizabeth said faintly.
After nearly eleven years of wanting and needing, a night of rhapsody was to finally take place.
Elizabeth awoke the next morning in William's tight grip. Her curly hair cascading over his bare chest. She lifted her head and saw his smile on his face.
"Good morning." He said happily pulling her closer to him.
"Morning." She pulled the sheet around her and got out of the bed. "I'm so sorry, William."
"About?"
"Last night, I took advantage…"
"Elizabeth, this was ten years in the making…"
"I'm sorry, but you have to leave." She sat on the edge of the bed. He took down the sheet, and started stroking her back. She got up and away from his touch.
"I don't want to leave. I don't ever want to leave. You told me last night you loved me. I love you. Love me, Elizabeth.. Just love me. I've loved you for so long."
"Please, William, this was all wrong. It shouldn't have been that way."
End of Scene I
Act VI Scene II
Ext. William's Jeep Wrangler; Int. Jane and Charles' Back Bay Townhouse and Elizabeth's Brookline Village Apartment.
Later that morning
William sat in his jeep for a long while wondering what had happened. He thought he'd finally broken through. She admitted finally that she loved him. Why did she close her heart again? He ran his hands through his mop of curls cursing the moment. He stared up at the window to her apartment and hoped that she would come to the window and signal him to come back. But she never did.
All she did was open the door and escort him out.
Elizabeth frantically dialed Jane's number, fumbling three times before she finally made a connection. Charles turned to his phone then told her it was her phone. Jane groggily answered her phone on her side of the nightstand.
"Hello?"
"Did I wake you?"
"No, no. I'm usually up at," she turned to the clock, "eight-thirty. What's wrong."
Elizabeth started crying again. "Oh Jane."
The other phone started ringing and Charles reached over to grab it.
"Yes?"
"I blew it Charles. She hates me."
Both Charles and Jane looked at each other. "What happened?" they said simultaneously.
William and Elizabeth each told them about sleeping with one another.
"They did it!" Jane and Charles said to each other.
"Elizabeth, that's wonderful. We knew you two would finally get together."
"She forced me to leave, Charles. It was the best night of my life, and then this morning she closes her heart again." William told him.
"Did he not perform adequately?" Jane asked. Charles looked strangely at Jane.
"Jane, it was absolutely wonderful. I mean he was… Absolutely incredible."
"So what's the problem?" they both said in unison.
"She hates me."
"He'll hate me."
"Is Charles on the phone with someone?" Elizabeth asked.
"No, that's the morning news."
"Elizabeth, I don't know what to say. But you have to work this out on your own."
"William, eventually she will come around. You two are meant for each other. See you at the wedding. February 14. Don't forget."
"Great." William said unenthused.
They all hung up.
Jane moved into Charles' arms. "Tell me I'll never be out there ever again."
"Darling -- never, ever."
William thought he would be showing up to work a very happy man. But what he did instead was have his assistant book a trip (alone) to the Italian Riviera. After the wedding, he would get away from Boston, work and her.
Elizabeth sat staring at the monitor. Her mind a complete blank. She couldn't work. Nothing interested. Lou's abrasive manner -- irked her. The newsroom was a bunch of guys who loved to tease her and today she was in no mood. She chewed out the mailroom person and nearly ran over another woman in the hallway.
Int. St. Paul's Cathedral, Boston, MA
February 14, 1990
Charles paced nervously in the Sacristy. William was getting more annoyed. He had a ten p.m. flight out of Boston, and he was looking forward to the sun, the beach and the solitude.
"I can't believe today is the day." William gave him a wry grin. "How are you holding up?"
"I'm fine. Just looking forward to my vacation."
Charles looked at his watch. "Well, I believe it's time."
William followed behind Charles and stood a little to the rear of him at the altar. The organist started playing the Bride's theme. Elizabeth walked down the aisle first, keeping her gaze lowered, she ventured up to see Charles and gave him a small smile.
Jane came next.
The ceremony lasted roughly forty-five minutes. Interminable for William who couldn't look at Elizabeth; and Elizabeth who couldn't look at William.
Jane and Charles did note the coolness between the maid of honor and the groomsman; and wondered what would happen when the two of them had to dance together.
Everyone admired the bride and groom at the reception. Jane glowed and Charles couldn't stop smiling. William stayed in the corner, nursing a strong scotch and soda.
Jane and Charles danced together as a married couple, then the wedding party was asked to come into the dance. William drained his drink and headed off for Elizabeth's hand. He said not one word to her.
As chaste as a dance could possibly be, he kept a good distance between him and her. He looked out over her. While she tried looking over his left shoulder.
Some people can love one another for life… How about us.
How 'bout us, baby.
Some people, can love one another for life.
After the dance ended, the newly married couple breathed easier, but the gap was growing. No longer friends, and certainly not lovers, William and Elizabeth went their separate ways.
Int. Morrissey Blvd, Dorchester, MA Boston Globe Hdqtrs.
February 28, 1990
Elizabeth sat down at her desk and lazily glanced over the competition's newspaper, The Boston Herald. The screaming headlines and gory front page just grabbed one's attention. No wonder why the Herald was fast becoming the biggest selling morning paper in Boston.
Elizabeth mainly looked at the Herald for the gossip. She liked to see who they ragged on in the society page. Or what they considered the society page. John F. Kennedy, Jr.., of late was a darling among the gossipmongers.
However, today a grainy picture caught more than just her attention. It crushed her heart.
Fidelity resident hunk, William Darcy, who we last thought was nursing a broken heart, has seemed to get over the hurt very well. Seen on several occasions with a pretty blonde at dinner and swimming in the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Our spies tell us that the other half of the broken heart is none other than a celebrated columnist over at the Boring Broadsheet....Geez, this is the woman who got the Armani....
The fuzzy picture showed William putting suntan oil on the pretty blonde.
End of Scene II
Act VI Scene III
Int. Coffee Shop near Herald Square, Boston Herald Headquarters
March, 1990
William Darcy had seemed to replace, temporarily, JFK, Jr. in the society/gossip column. Boston became enthralled with his European jaunts and wanted more. William Darcy seen with Cindy Crawford. William Darcy hobnobbing with Prince Albert of Monaco.
…And William Darcy hugging and kissing the same blonde.
Jane was on honeymoon, so Elizabeth couldn't go to her. Elizabeth kept all the press clippings of his trip. She was thankful that she wasn't being tagged by the hounds at the Herald. She was asked for a quote on her reaction to his flagrant behavior. She laughed it off. "Gayle, you know that what a grown man does on his vacation is his business. And we commoners shouldn't really care what he does."
"And we are to believe that his extended trip to Europe isn't bothering you at all, Liz? C'mon, I've known you a long time. We kept quiet when he kept showing up at the Globe, now the city is loving his exploits."
"Why, do you think that he only came to see me?"
"Am I wearing a stupid tag on my forehead? The word around town is that guy is crazy mad about you. Liz, we can out you. Then you'll have everyone prying into why you dumped that gorgeous guy."
"Gayle, and you'd have a lawsuit on your hands faster than you could print it."
"Hey we're in it for the news."
"There is no news. Leave me be, and leave Mr. Darcy be. Let him enjoy his time away from work."
Gayle Feeney walked out of the coffee shop not happy, but she knew that sooner or later, she'd put the pieces together regarding William Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet.
Elizabeth went through the motions of day to day business, but her heart just couldn't be in it most times. With Jane still on her honeymoon, she felt more lonelier than ever. Charlotte became a diversion at times, but even then she preferred to stay home and watch sitcoms. Listening to the radio was horrible as every song brought back many happy times with him.
But now he was spending happy times with a pretty blonde. In a wonderfully romantic setting. Grainy pictures showed him happy, carefree and relaxed.
The Herald even went as far as to speculate that he may return to Boston married. Of course, he told Elizabeth, once bitten, twice shy. He would only marry a person who was extremely special. He would never dare to rush into the matrimony state again.
March 14, 1990
Elizabeth picked up the Herald again the next morning. She combed the gossip page for any bit of information on William Darcy and there it was, a photo of him smiling with blonde female companion at Logan International Airport.
Fidelity super hunk, William Darcy, blew back into Boston
last night looking well-rested, tanned and happy. Hunky
Darcy seemed perplexed by the amount of reporters around and
asked why he had a welcoming party. This reporter explained
that his exploits in Europe garnered much attention here in
the city. When asked who the beautiful woman was and if she
was to be the next Mrs. Darcy, he laughed. And let me tell
you ladies, he has a glorious lilt of a laugh. Our spies
tell us that at the Boring Broadsheet, one celebrated
columnist is probably crying in her coffee this morning.
Tsk, Tsk… You were fairly warned. So ladies, it looks like
we are back to hunting John-John again. {weep} Elizabeth studied the picture to see the picture of her, but she had turned her head at the most inopportune time. Elizabeth cut the picture out of the paper and stashed it in her drawer with the rest of them. One day she'd have courage to burn them.
"Hey, Bennet?" Lou called.
"Yes?" She answered.
"What the hell is this?"
"What the hell is what, Lou?"
"Why is Gayle Feeney standing outside demanding to see you?"
"I don't have a clue." Damn her!
"Are you the celebrated columnist that has Boston in an uproar?" he asked waving the other newspaper in her face.
"Now, Lou, do you think I'm a celebrated columnist. First of all, I'm a reporter; I don't have a column. That's Mike Barnicle. Maybe he's the person they're really after."
"You think Mike Barnicle -- you know, plays with the big boys."
Elizabeth shrugged her shoulders, then bit her lip to stop from laughing out loud. Elizabeth turned on her radio, partly to drown out the sorrow she was feeling and the droning of Lou on one of his tirades.
Those happy hours
I spend with you
That lovely afterglow
Most of all
I miss you so
Elizabeth wanted to shut it off; it hit too close to home. But she got lost in the lyrics and felt a sort of comfort in them
Your sweet caresses
Each rendezvous
Your voice
So soft and low
Most of all
I miss you so
She missed everything about him. They way he smelled, and they way he spoke. With that incredible British accent, that sounded more Bostonian everyday.
You once filled my heart with
No regrets
No fears
Now you'll find my heart
Filled to the top
With tearsI'll always love you
And want you too
How much,
You'll never know
Most of all
I miss you so
The guitar solo felt like her heartstrings being plucked with all the hurt that her heart held. The piano notes represented all the tears that she had cried. She closed her eyes and thought about how to correct a wrong. Could she possibly see him. Would he want that…
You once filled my heart with
No regrets
No fears
Now you'll find my heart
Filled to the top
With tearsI'll always love you
And want you too
How much,
You'll never knowMost of all
I miss you soI'll always love you
Most of allI miss you so
Elizabeth had an idea as to what to do. But didn't think she could execute it.
Int. Beacon Hill Townhouse
William Darcy ran out to the corner store and picked up the Herald. He ran back to the house in an outrage.
"Lies! All lies! And to drag Elizabeth into this!"
"William, you must calm down. It's not as bad as it seems."
He shot her a murderous glance. "What do you mean it's not as bad as it seems. This is definitely bad. Fidelity hunk! I'll sue. I'll take that damn rag of a newspaper down the toilet."
"William, you are ridiculous, it is not as bad as it seems."
"And are you going to tell me why?"
"It gives you an excuse to see her. To apologize, and to finally tell the bloody woman to wise up. Jane, Charles and I have already discussed the matter, she will come around."
"First of all, why must I apologize, I didn't do anything wrong. I loved her, that is what I did. I opened up to her. I wore the heart on my sleeve, and she rejects me."
"Let me talk to her." She offered.
"Georgiana, I think I can fend for myself."
"By the way, what size diamond would I have got, if this wasn't an incestuous relationship."
Int. Brookline Village Apartment
Elizabeth woke up the next morning to banging on the door. She tumbled out of bed and padded to the door.
"Who is it?" she whispered loudly.
"Elizabeth, it's Jane and Charles. Open the door, we have donuts."
Elizabeth smiled and threw the door open. She ran into her sister's arms.
"Oh Jane, I missed you so, so, so, so, much."
"Oh did you?" she teased.
"Does your new brother get a kiss or at least a hug?" Elizabeth kissed Charles on the cheek.
"You two look great. Well, how was it? Did you take lots of pictures?"
"Yes, a ton of pictures. We had the most wonderfully romantic time, Lizzy. Being with Charles was pure heaven."
He kissed her sweetly. "It's too early for the mushy love stuff, okay?"
"Goodness, you've guys been gone for a month!" Elizabeth remarked.
Jane became serious when she noticed the disarray state of the apartment.
"Elizabeth, do you ever leave this place? And clean it."
"Ha! I never cleaned it before. And I do go to work everyday, so yes, I do leave it."
"Have you heard from William, yet?"
"Yet? I think he's having a good time with the pretty blonde he met in Europe and brought back to Boston with."
"What are you talking about?" Jane asked, then Charles nudged her.
"Liz, it's probably nothing, just a fling on his part. He's entitled. As are you, so, did you have a fling while we were gone?" Charles asked.
"Oh please, like I have time for a fling. That's funny."
"Well anyway, thanks for the donuts, but I have to get ready for work. I'm really glad you stopped here first. I did miss you, guys."
"Listen, have dinner with us tonight. Nothing fancy, just pasta, some good wine and great conversation. You can see honeymoon pictures."
"Sure, fine. Tonight. Ah, one other thing, will William be there?"
Jane looked to Charles, and he answered. "Possibly."
"Well then, I'll think about it. I'll call you this afternoon."
End of Scene III
Act VI Scene IV
Int. Boston Globe Headquarters
Elizabeth did indeed think about dinner, and couldn't possibly face him. She phoned her sister to decline much to Jane's chagrin. She couldn't possibly face him while he was living with a woman.
Ext. Fanueil Hall
July, 1990
William Darcy pulled his sister through the throngs of people. Most locals knew to stay away from the biggest tourist trap in all of Boston, but Georgiana wanted to finally enjoy the sights of Boston that had been eluding her. The pushing and shoving and extreme heat, she could live without. But the excitement of it all, was thrilling.
She stopped at a street clown who was performing magic tricks for the small children. She stopped to clap and laugh and watch the little ones squeal with delight.
"He's going to want money when his little performance is done." William said nonchalantly.
"So we give it to him. He's charming." Further down the gravel walk, an Indian group were performing sounds of the Incas.
"They want money, too."
Georgiana turned to her brother and gave him the evil eye. "Why don't you just enjoy the music and the clowns and the magicians. At least they have the gumption to actually perform for people. They are all equally wonderful. This place is great!"
William thought so too. He always enjoyed watching the street performers, and thought it quite noble of the students to actually perform to pay for school.
The oppressive heat started to wilt Georgiana. She begged to go inside the cool air-conditioning of a local seafood restaurant. New England seafood was the best. Happily situated inside, Georgiana felt the life coming back to her.
"I'll be right back, I'm off to the ladies room." Georgiana informed her brother.
Int. The Union Oyster House
Elizabeth and Lou Grant opted to go into the city for their meeting. However, Lou decided to push one back, and that turned into four too many.
"Listen, Bennet. This Governor's race will sheat hup." He slurred. "And I need you in top condition to deal with Silber and Weld."
Elizabeth sucked on her mineral water with lime. "I can handle it, Lou. Don't you think you've had enough."
He chose to ignore her. "Weld and Silber, this is going to be a tough fight. To the bitter end, do you understand?"
Elizabeth rose, "I fully comprehend. Now if you would please excuse me, I must run off to the ladies room."
Elizabeth walked away shaking her head realizing that going out to lunch with him was ridiculous; he drank, did absolutely no work, and usually ended up staying at the bar for the rest of the day.
Elizabeth, not paying attention, walked right into the woman coming out of the bathroom, knocking her down and bloodying her nose.
"Oh God! I am so sorry. I didn't see you." Elizabeth cried. Georgiana saw the blood and nearly fainted. "Is it broken?"
Georgiana, too stunned to talk, shook her head.
"I am so sorry, can I help you back to your table?" Georgiana nodded her head. Elizabeth ran to grab some napkins. Elizabeth informed a passing waiter to figure out what table she came from. Gingerly helping Georgiana up, she walked her over to her table.
William saw the blood on the front of her shirt. "Good God, what happened!" Then he saw Elizabeth standing behind his sister. "Elizabeth?"
Elizabeth stood looking dumbstruck, this wasn't good.
Georgiana slumped into her seat, "I don't feel so good." and passed out.
End of Scene IV
Act VI Scene V
Posted on Sunday, 18-Oct-98
Int. The Union Oyster House
Elizabeth blushed the brightest red, but acted quickly with Georgiana. Pulling her from her seat and off of the floor. She held her head up and pinched the nose to stop the bleeding. Both William and Elizabeth reached for the water glass on the table, lacing fingers with each other. Elizabeth looked up and tried to shake off the feeling of momentary bliss she felt.
William brought the glass of water and a napkin to Elizabeth. The manager of the restaurant came over to the scene. He was fearful that people would think that the poor woman was poisoned by something that she had eaten.
"I really must take down your names. We wouldn't want any bad publicity getting out about this."
William shot the manager a horrid look and quickly gave the names: "William and Georgiana Darcy."
Elizabeth looked up at horror at William. She nearly spilled the whole glass of water on the invalid. "I'm -- I'm -- Ah, oh. Georgiana?"
"Your name is Georgiana, too?" the manager asked.
"Her name is Elizabeth Bennet." William offered.
Georgiana started coming to and tried sitting up. Elizabeth still looked on horrificly at the two people. The manager was clueless. Elizabeth cleaned up Georgiana, apologized once again and explained that she must be off.
"You still haven't explained what happened?"
Elizabeth couldn't look at him or her. She felt her heart had been ripped out from her chest and didn't want to talk. No, she preferred to crawl under the nearest rock.
"I'm sorry Mr. Darcy, I didn't mean to... I really must go. Your wife can explain everything to you."
"William, my nose." Georgiana cried. He gathered her in his arms.
"I know. I know." Elizabeth turned and walked away.
Georgiana just understood what Elizabeth had said. "William, she thinks I'm your wife."
"What?"
"She just said that your 'wife' will explain."
Elizabeth was heading to her table, when William called out her name. "Wait, please. Come back." She turned around, but still could not look at the two of them.
"I'm sorry Mr. Darcy, I know that I've created a big mess right now, but I can't exactly stay here. I... No, this is just a little bit too difficult."
Georgiana was well enough to sit up in a chair and implored her to come back.
"I really can't."
"Don't you think that you take this just a little too far?" Georgiana started. "My brother is so in love, and you don't see it. Stop being so blind and just allow him the luxury of loving the one woman he has wanted since the beginning of time."
"I'm sorry, but I'm not following here. Your brother really means nothing to me. Mrs. Darcy, I think that..."
William cut her off, with a smile. "Miss Darcy. Not Mrs. Elizabeth, Georgiana is my sister."
Luckily for Elizabeth a chair was right behind her, and she managed to fall into it. Lou Grant came upon the scene and hollered to Bennet to get her act together and get back to work.
End of Act V