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Chapter 23
Lydia watched George leave with little show of emotion. But it does not follow that she had no emotions. Meeting with George after all that time was not so easy for Lydia as she had imagined. Contrary to general assumptions, even she had some residue of feelings and sentiment. It seemed to her that George was completely over their separation and consequent divorce. He flirted with her as if she were some new conquest, in a manner that even Lydia found offensive. But then, she asked herself. Why am I here?
To tell the truth, Lydia didn't have any honest answer for that. She wanted to believe that she was here because she wanted to play a prank to get back at Lizzy, but that wasn't the entire truth. Lydia was subconsciously aware of the fact, that she was doing a favor for Wickham only because she still had some feelings for him. And it was a tribute for the way things could have been.
But Lydia was, by no way, naïve. She understood there was no hope for them and she accepted that as a fact. But she figured that this brief interlude from her "work" in Las Vegas, could be regarded as a vacation. And Wickham would be her companion.
Lydia shook herself out of her reverie and decided to take a hot bath. It would clear her mind and get her ready for the task ahead. The night would undoubtedly prove to be taxing, especially after the flight from Vegas.
Meanwhile, in Yale University Campus.
"What do you all say," William said to his friends as they took a break from skating. "that we go to Georgie's concert tonight?"
"What concert?" inquired Lizzy.
"It's for some charity event," William explained. "That's why, she couldn't come here with me."
Charles said, "I guess it could be a good idea...it would surprise her, won't you say?"
Jane joined in, "But we already promised Mr. Doberman that we would have dinner with him today...it's too late to cancel."
"Then I guess, we can't make it," Charles said apologetically.
"Caroline and I have plans, too," Richard said, smiling at Caroline.
Charlotte offered, "But probably me and Liz could come with you, if you want. How about it Liz?"
"Hmm...I don't know..." Liz said, thoughtfully. She didn't want to sound as if she was making excuses, but she really didn't feel up to it. The last few days had been really hectic. "I feel a little sick already, and a drive to and from New York might not be the best thing for me. And it's probably a good idea to stay quietly in the guesthouse with Rachel." She saw that William was disappointed and added quickly, "But you guys go ahead."
"Nah," William said. "Forget about it...it was just a thought. It's probably not such a good idea anyway. Georgie isn't even expecting us, so we might now even get seats. And besides, I wouldn't want to drag you all with me...Char must have some plans too."
And hence, the idea was dropped, and no one thought much more about it. But Liz was secretly flattered that she had so much influence on William's decision. Of course, she had no idea what a fatal mistake this decision would prove to be.
Later that day; Ramsgate Concert Auditorium, New York.
Lydia and Wickham waited for the concert to finish in Wickham's car. It would be over any minute. George went over the plan once more with Lydia.
Lydia nodded, "Okay I get that...but one thing I don't understand is what's in it for you?"
George tried to laugh it off, "Just helping out old Melly!"
Lydia eyed him skeptically, "Don't give me that crap, George. I know you too well. You wouldn't help your grandma if there wasn't any profit for you."
George looked at Lydia and sighed, "Okay, I admit it. If this thing goes through, and Melissa marries rich-boy Darcy, she pays me big time. And I can always use some extra change."
"I see," Lydia said. "But I still don't get why I had to be flown all the way from Vegas for this."
Not again! "I told you...for our purposes we need someone close to Elizabeth involved."
"You won't let the cops get me, will you?" Lydia said, half-jokingly.
"Of course not," he hastily assured her.
"And we don't really hurt her, right? Just a good scare?" she asked.
God, this girl has too many scruples! "Of course we don't hurt her!" he lied to her, like he had for everything else. "Oh! The concert's over. They're all coming out. Georgiana will be the last one. She always is."
"How do you know?" Lydia asked curiously.
Wickham smiled, "It's amazing how much info you can gather by stalking someone."
Lydia shuddered all of a sudden. She didn't like the gleam in George's eyes. She just wanted to get over with it all and go home. "She'll be alone?"
George nodded, "After every concert, she walks across the parking lot to her spot and she's always alone. Quit worrying, okay?"
Lydia simply nodded. She had come this far, now she had to go through with it.
After some 15 minutes, Wickham suddenly said, "There she is!"
Sure enough, Georgiana Darcy was comfortably strolling across the parking lot with her saxophone in hand, oblivious to the imminent danger surrounding her.
"Now!" Wickham whispered to Lydia as Georgiana crossed in front of their car.
He watched Lydia from the car. She was doing exactly what she'd been taught. She pretended to be a lost tourist, asking for directions. Georgiana would never suspect. Sure enough, Georgiana fell for it, hook, line and sinker. She smiled and Lydia and pointed to some direction, probably giving her directions. That was Wickham's cue. He pulled on his mask, and crept towards them. Then, all of a sudden, he attacked Georgiana from behind her.
She let out a small cry. Lydia stepped back...her job was done. Wickham would give her a minor scare and they'd get out of there. But that was not what was happening. Wickham and Georgiana were struggling and it seemed to Lydia that George didn't intend to let go. He was hurting her.
"Help!" Georgiana managed to scream, pleading to Lydia.
Lydia couldn't watch anymore. "George! Let go of her. You promised!"
"Shut up!!!" Wickham said irritably.
Lydia refused to be told off that easily and joined the struggle, attempting to release Georgiana from Wickham's hold. He flung her to the ground. She got up again, but this time she was successful in releasing one of Georgiana's arms. Georgiana instantly put her free hand into her purse as if frantically searching for something.
Suddenly, she pulled out a gun, and freed herself from Wickham, pointing it straight at him. "Okay, game's up, buster. Who are you? Why are doing this?"
Wickham hadn't anticipated this. He put his arms up in the air. But he saw that Georgiana really didn't know what she was doing.
"Take off the mask. NOW!!!" she shouted.
This was his chance. Wickham moved ever so slightly, and while pretending to take his mask off, lunged forward! Lydia shrieked. Wickham landed near Georgiana's feet and pulled, she fell down and in that process her gun fired off.
"Argh!"
Chapter 24
2 am; Boxer's Day; Yale Guesthouse.
The phone was ringing. William stirred. "Hello?" he said groggily.
"William Darcy?" a girl's voice asked him.
"Yes," said William, trying to identify the voice. "Who is this?"
"I'm Kristen Johnson, Georgiana's roommate," said Kristen.
William instinctively looked at the watch -- 2 a.m. He had a sickening feeling at the pit of his stomach. "What's wrong, Kristen?" he urged her to continue.
Kristen broke down. "It's Georgie," she wailed. "She had an accident."
An accident? Oh god! Please let her be alright. "What kind of an accident?" he demanded. If some drunk driver hit her, I'm going to --!!
Kristen was quite hysterical by this point. "Calm down," William said gently. "What happened to my sister?"
"S-he, she's in the hospital. I don't know what happened," Kristen said, in between sobs. "But the police called me when they picked her up. She hit her head and has other injuries. I think she was mugged."
Mugged? Police? "How serious is she?" William asked the vital question.
"I don't know," Kristen said, helplessly. "She's in the ER, and they won't let me in. I didn't know who else to call. Can you come?"
"Of course," William said, briskly. "What hospital?"
"Ramsgate Hospital," she said and proceeded to give him the address.
"Right," William said. "Be there in an hour."
William jumped out of bed and got dressed. He refused to believe that anything would happen to Georgie. It was just a little incident, she'd be alright. But no matter how much William consoled himself, he couldn't let go of the fear that Georgiana would not recover. No, he said to himself. I can't even think about that. Right now, I just have to get to New York.
It suddenly occurred to William, as he got dressed, that he'd need a ride. Richard's car was obviously not available as it had been all smashed up...I'll ask Charles, he thought with relief. It'd be very difficult to get a taxi to New York at that time of night.
William rapidly locked up his room and made his way to Charles'. He knocked. After few seconds, he heard someone stirring inside. Momentarily, Charles appeared, "William! What happened? Do you realize what time it is?"
William heard Jane say, "Who is it, honey?"
"William, dear," Charles replied.
"Sorry to bother you Charles, but it's an emergency," William said, rapidly. "Georgiana had an accident. She's at Ramsgate Hospital, in the ER. I just got a call from her roommate, Kristen. I need to go to New York. NOW."
Charles was completely awake. "Oh god! That's terrible! What happened?"
"I don't know," William shook his head. "We'll find out, when we get there. Can I take your car?"
Charles nodded, "Of course, but wait. I'm coming with you."
"It's okay, Charles," William said. "I don't want to bother you. Just give me the keys."
"No way, William," Charles objected. "Georgiana is like my sister. I'm coming. Will you wait a moment?"
Charles shut the door and appeared after a couple of minutes, fully dressed.
"Janie wanted to come too," he said, as they walked away from the room. "But I told her to stay and tell the others where we went, in the morning. No point disturbing them now. It might all be a mistake. You never know!"
William could not help, but smile at his friend's unruffled optimism. He had often teased him about that, but at this point, he was ready to share it with him. "I certainly hope so, Charles," he said.
"Well...I'm positive," Charles declared, as they got into his car. "How can anything bad ever happen to an angel like Georgiana? Not possible. You'll see."
"You think so?" William asked, fastening his seatbelts.
"Sure do," Charles said, reassuringly. "Relax, William. She'll be fine."
1 hour later; Ramsgate Hospital, New York.
Charles and William pulled up in the hospital parking lot, and rushed in. It was astonishing how busy the hospital was, even at 3 in the morning. Obviously, emergencies didn't abide by time. They rushed into the hospital's ER area.
"Is Kristen going to be here?" Charles asked William. "You know what she looks like, right?"
"I hope so," William said. "I met her couple of times, but it was some time ago."
He scanned the crowd, and spotted her. "There she is!" he exclaimed. And sure enough Kristen was talking to some doctor, presumably about Georgiana.
"Kristen?" William said, tentatively, approaching them.
"William Darcy!" Kristen exclaimed. Turning to the doctor, "Dr. Davis, this is William Darcy, Georgiana's brother."
They greeted each other, and William introduced Charles. William said, "How's Georgiana, doctor?"
Dr. Davis said, "Georgiana was brought here with severe trauma to her head and face. She was unconscious. We tried our best to revive her, but I'm afraid...she's in coma."
"W-what?!" both Charles and William exclaimed at the same time.
"Are you sure, it's Georgiana?" asked Charles, remembering the confusion they'd had regarding William, a few days ago.
Kristen nodded, "I went in to see her."
The shock hadn't set in for William. He asked, "How bad is she?"
Dr. Davis shook his head, "At this point, I can't give an accurate diagnosis. We'll have to wait and watch. All we can hope for is that she comes out of it soon. The sooner the better because in such trauma cases, the longer you stay in coma, lesser are the chances of you coming out."
"Oh?" William said. "Can we see her?"
"Of course," Dr. Davis said. "This way, please." He led them to an intensive care ward.
William and Charles entered and William gasped. For there was Georgiana, lying in the bed, looking as if she was fast asleep, had it not been for the artificial respiration equipment attached to her. She had bad bruises on her face and arms, and bandage on her forehead. In short, her entire aspect screamed, that she was not doing well.
Charles, being a medical doctor, directed many questions to Dr. Davis regarding Georgiana's condition; all of which sounded like Greek to William. Presently, Dr. Davis left the room.
William asked, "So...how is she really?"
Charles shook his head, "I'm no expert, but I would say, that she has pretty good chances of survival."
William sighed and then looked at Georgiana. He had been talking to her just that morning. She had been so animated and excited about her concert. Her concert! William thought. If only, I had come to her concert! I could have protected her. She was helpless.
He sat down next to Georgiana, gently stroking her blond hair. "Georgiana, can you hear me?"
No answer.
"Well...if you can, I just want you to know...I won't let anything happen to you, you hear me. Not a thing. You'll be fine, I swear. And you'll play music. Just come back to us. You can't leave me. You're the only one I have. Please don't leave me...please." Tears flowed freely down his cheek.
Charles, who had been observing him quietly, came and led him out of the room.
William wiped his tears, "I can't bear to see her like that, Charles. I went through my parents' deaths, only because I had to take care of her. She was my responsibility, and I let her down."
"No, you didn't, Will," Charles said, as they sat down, on a bench in front of the ward. "You did a fine job raising her. You were her father and her mother. No one who knows Georgiana can say that you lacked in any way."
"But I should have prevented this somehow," William persisted.
"How could you?" Charles said. "You always did everything in your power to protect her, but you are human...there was no way you could have known, she was in danger."
William was silent for a minute, then, "I want to know who did this to her!!! And when I find that person...they'd better have life insurance!"
"Mr. Darcy?" A voice close to them, asked.
William looked up to see a big, burly man. "Yes?"
"Sergeant Lewis. I'd like to ask you some questions, please."
"Sure, whatever you want to know."
"Then, can you come with me?" he said.
William nodded. As he got up, he said to Charles, "Stay with Georgie."
Sergeant Lewis led William to a small room with table and couple of chairs. He motioned William to sit down.
"Mr. Darcy," he began. "As you know, your sister has been attacked tonight as she was leaving Ramsgate Concert Auditorium. Did you talk to her recently?"
"Yes, as a matter of fact, I talked to her this morning."
"Did she express any concern about her well being? Was she being followed? Did she seem like she was worried about anything?"
"No, not at all," William said. "She seemed quite cheerful and normal. She was excited about her concert."
"Okay," Sergeant Lewis said. "Do you know whether she has any enemies?"
"Enemies!" William exclaimed. "Georgiana was----is, the sweetest girl. Everyone loves her. She doesn't have enemies."
"If you say so," Sergeant Lewis said. "Did she carry a gun?"
William gave him an odd look, "Yes, she owns a gun."
Sergeant Lewis produced a gun, sealed in a plastic bag. "Do you recognize this gun?"
William looked at carefully, "Yes, it looks like my sister's gun. Where did you find it?"
"At the scene of the crime," Sergeant Lewis said.
"Is there a problem, Sergeant?" William asked, not liking the look in the sergeant's eyes.
"I'm afraid, Mr. Darcy," said Sergeant Lewis. "Your sister shot her attacker."
William was shocked. "Is he - dead?"
Sergeant Lewis said, "It's a 'she', Mr. Darcy. And we don't know, yet. She's still in surgery."
William was apprehensive, "But why would anyone attack Georgiana?"
"I was hoping, you'd tell me."
"Can I see her?" William asked. "Maybe I know who it is?"
Sergeant Lewis and William walked over to the OR. Sergeant Lewis stopped in front of the ward where the operation was going on. "Wait a minute here," he instructed William.
Shortly afterward, he came out with a doctor, Dr. McGuire.
"So? What happened?" William asked, anxiously.
Dr. McGuire shook his head, "We couldn't save her. She was shot too close to the heart and went into cardiac arrest. She lost too much blood."
William was too shocked for words. His Georgiana killed someone...in self defense.
"Would you care to identify her?" Sergeant Lewis asked William.
William nodded and gathering all his courage, went into the OR. It had been all cleaned up, and only a single bed with a body covered in a white sheet remained. William walked up to the body and Sergeant Lewis uncovered it.
William gasped, "Lydia!!!"
"Do you know her?" Sergeant Lewis asked.
"Yes," he said. "She's the sister of...a good friend of mine."
"Then, perhaps you know what this means," Sergeant Lewis said, pulling out a piece of paper from his pocket. "When the paramedics were bringing her over, she regained consciousness for a short time. She tried to speak, and they wrote down what she said. Here it is." He handed William the paper. It said:
Tell Lizzy...George.
"That's all," Sergeant Lewis informed a very stunned William.
Chapter 25
Ramsgate Hospital, New York
A very dazed William made his way over to Georgiana's ward. Charles was still sitting outside the room. He had dozed off. He awoke with a start as William sat down next to him.
"So?" he asked, a little worried by William's grim countenance.
In a mechanical tone, William said, "Lydia is dead."
"Excuse me?" said Charles, very surprised. He hadn't anticipated that the shock of Georgiana's injury would affect him in such a profound way.
"Lydia is dead," William repeated.
"What do you mean?" Charles said, still bewildered.
"Exactly what I'm saying," William said. "Lydia is dead...Georgiana killed her."
"Listen William," said Charles, convinced that his friend was delirious. "You're making no sense. Why don't you go and lie down for a while...the shock has been too much for you."
"There's nothing the matter with me, Charles," said William, faintly irritated. "Sergeant Lewis just made me identify Georgiana's attacker, who had been shot. It was Lydia."
"And she's...dead?" Charles asked, unconvinced.
William simply nodded, "I don't believe it myself. This is all just a dream, a nightmare rather, and I'm going to wake up any second now."
Charles looked concernedly at William, "But what happened?!"
"Beats me," William said.
"Who called the cops?" asked Charles, trying to make sense of it all.
"The auditorium caretaker, I think," replied William. "He said he heard cries for help when he was closing up, so he went outside to check it out. There were two people attacking Georgie..."
"Two?!" interrupted Charles, even more mystified. Why anyone would ever try to hurt Georgie, he couldn't understand, but two!!!
William nodded, "At least that's what he says. And then there's this." William took out a copy of Lydia's note and handed it to Charles.
Charles read it and exclaimed, "No way!!! You don't think...surely...not...It can't be...Wickham?"
"How many dirty, slimy, rotten, and plain vicious people named George, do you know Charles?" asked William. "And one who hold a grudge on me and Georgie...and has connections with Lydia. It can't be a coincidence."
Charles was shocked, "But, but why? What would they hope to gain by this? And Lydia too?! She's supposed to be in Vegas!"
"God knows what they were up to," William said. "And Wickham got away...that, that creep! If I ever get my hands on him -"
"Now William," interrupted Charles. "You can't be sure it was him, can you?"
"Legally, no. But as far as I'm concerned, it can't be anyone else."
A sickening thought struck Charles, as he regarded the note. "William...why did Lydia leave the message for...Liz?"
"I don't know."
"You don't suppose that she had anything...no," Charles couldn't even think of such a thing.
"I don't know," William said, woodenly.
Charles was surprised, "You actually have doubts?!"
William didn't answer.
Charles shook his head. "I'm calling Jane. She has to know. God, she's going to be heart-broken. No matter how estranged, Lydia was her sister."
William was silent. Charles left to call Jane, while William tried to sort out his own emotional turmoil. It didn't make sense. But then again, nothing with Wickham ever did. But this time he had gone too far. William knew, of course, that he couldn't prove in any court of law that George meant Wickham. But his gut instinct and years of dealing with Wickham told him that such a heinous deed could be committed by no one else. One person was dead and another in coma. If that didn't make him guilty, nothing would.
But Elizabeth...no, William couldn't bring himself to believe that she was involved in any way. But she had been reluctant to come to Georgie's concert...could it be because she knew that Georgie was going to be attacked? No, no, NO!!! William's mind screamed. It can't be true! Lizzy could never do anything like that, not in a lifetime.
But her name had been on Lydia's last note...a tiny doubt still existed in William's mind.
At this time, Charles came back from talking to Jane. "They're on their way."
Meanwhile, Wickham's Townhouse, New York
Wickham entered his apartment, locked his doors, turned on the lights and made his way to the phone. He dialed a now-familiar number. After some time, the call went through.
"Melissa?" he said anxiously.
"George!!!" she groaned sleepily. "You can't be calling me...I'll talk to you in the morning from a payphone or something..."
"Shut up, Melissa and listen!" Wickham growled.
Melissa sat up. Things didn't go well, she assumed. "Why George! What happened?"
George told her.
"Good lord!!!" Melissa almost shouted. "You weren't supposed to kill her!!!"
"Well, I didn't," he said, calmly. "Georgiana shot her."
"But, still...what if she dies?"
"What if she does?" countered Wickham.
Melissa felt sick, "Don't you even care! She was your ex, you know."
"I know," said Wickham. "And she was a major b****!"
"But she didn't deserve to die!"
"Maybe she won't," pointed out Wickham. "We don't know that for a fact."
"But still..."
"Now don't you get all moral on me now," snarled Wickham. "It was your plan."
"But it didn't include killing anyone," complained Melissa.
"Look," he said. "I've had quite enough. I'm clearing out tonight."
But Melissa wasn't satisfied, "What if Lydia does wake up and tells the cops about you."
"You worry too much, babe," he said lightly. "I have an iron-clad alibi, remember?"
"Oh, I forgot all about Moraine."
"Gotta run. Be good. Bye now."
"Bye George. Be careful." Melissa hung up. Now with all these complications, she wasn't sure that it had been such a great idea, after all. How low will I stoop to get William? She asked herself. The answer was clear - very low.
Ramsgate Hospital; 90 minutes later
Soon after receiving Charles' call, Jane had informed the others and the group, consisting of her, Liz, Richard, Caroline and Mrs. Bennet arrived at the hospital. Needless to say, Mrs. Bennet was in hysterics, "Oh my poor, poor Lydia!!! Dear sweet Lydia! Oh, how can this happen to her! She was always so good! I can't believe it! Oh! Good Lord! I feel faint! Jane, my smelling salts!!!"
Obviously, Mrs. Bennet wasn't very helpful in crisis situations. Jane comforted her as best as she could, "Calm down, mom. It might all be a big mistake."
"No, Jane," said Liz. "I don't think so. William saw her himself."
"But," Richard reminded them. "We all did make a mistake in assuming William was dead in the crash."
"That was different," said Caroline. Then, "Oh, poor Georgiana, too!"
They headed for the intensive care units, where they would undoubtedly find Georgiana, Charles and William. A receptionist nurse informed them of the exact location of Georgiana's ward. Sure enough, William and Charles were waiting there.
"Oh, thank go, you're here!" exclaimed Charles as he rushed to greet Jane. He hugged her tightly. "How are you holding up?"
"Pretty good," she said, slightly quivering.
"How's Georgie?" Richard asked the critical question.
"Still the same," replied William. "In coma."
"I'm sorry."
"Can we go in and see her?" asked Liz.
William had been observing her for sometime. She hadn't said a word...about Georgie or Lydia. Now she did.
"Yes, of course," he said. He showed them in.
A nurse monitoring Georgiana's condition was present. "You all will have to leave. Now crowding...hospital policy."
"Just one person, then?" asked William.
"Okay."
William motioned Liz to stay and nodded to the others.
Liz watched Georgie in silence, then whispered to William. "I'm so sorry about her."
Why? Because you were involved? "Yes, me too."
After one last look, they left the room. As soon as they were outside, Mrs. Bennet demanded, "Where's my daughter?!"
"Lydia? This way please." He led the way.
Everyone in the group, with the possible exception of Mrs. Bennet, understood that William was going through a tough time. They all noticed his strange emotionless demeanor, but they said nothing.
As they walked to see Lydia, Jane held on to Lizzy's hands. They were in this together. Maybe Lydia hadn't been their favorite sister, but no one would have thought it would all end this way.
They reached the room and William informed the guard on the door of their connection with the deceased. He only let Mrs. Bennet, Jane and Liz in. They went in, not knowing what to expect. There was still a hope in Jane's heart that it would all be a mistake. All her hopes were dashed with the first sight of Lydia's body.
"Oh my god!" whispered Liz. Lydia looked a deathly shade of white. Her marble cold face was expressionless. Every aspect of her person announced that she no longer inhabited the planet.
For once, Mrs. Bennet was speechless. She broke down and cried. "Oh, oh! Take me out of here!"
Jane and Liz looked to each other and nodded. That would be for the best.
Liz said, "You go ahead, Jane. I'll be out in a minute."
"You sure?"
"Yes."
Mrs. Bennet, supported by Jane, left the room. Lizzy watched Lydia silently for few seconds. Then she said,
"Poor Lydia! Poor, stupid girl!" A tear escaped her eyes.
With one parting glance at Lydia's lifeless form, she left the room.
When the day is long and the night,
the night is yours alone,
When you're sure you've had enough of this life,
well hang on.
Don't let yourself go,
Everybody cries and everybody hurts sometimes.
Outside, the whole group was assembled in silence. They were a stricken bunch and there was nothing much anyone could say.
Sometimes everything is wrong.
Now it's time to sing along.
When your day is night alone, (hold on, hold on)
if you feel like letting go, (hold on)
when you think you've had too much of this life,
well hang on.
Lizzy and Jane held on.
Everybody hurts. Take comfort in your friends.
Everybody hurts. Don't throw your hand.
Oh, no. Don't throw your hand.
If you feel like you're alone,
no, no, no, you are not aloneIf you're on your own in this life,
the days and nights are long,
when you think you've had too much of this life to hang on.Well, everybody hurts sometimes, everybody cries.
And everybody hurts sometimes.
And everybody hurts sometimes.
So, hold on, hold on. Hold on, hold on.
Hold on, hold on. Hold on, hold on.
Everybody hurts. You are not alone.*
The silence was broken by the arrival of Sergeant Lewis, "Which of you is Lizzy?"
Surprised, Elizabeth said, "I am."
"Can you come with me please?"
"Yes, of course." She gave an odd look to Jane and followed him.
As soon as they were in a designated room, Sergeant Lewis asked her to sit down. "First of all, I would like to condole with you for the death of your sister in such unfortunate circumstances."
"Thank you," said Liz, but she had no clue what was going on.
"Your full name would be...?"
"Mrs. Elizabeth Bennet Michaels."
"Well, Mrs. Michaels," said Sergeant Lewis. "As you know your sister was involved in the premeditated attack on Georgiana Darcy."
"I am aware of that."
"Were you close to her?"
"No, not really," said Liz.
"Did you talk with her often?"
"No, I haven't spoken to her in over 2 years."
"Ah," he said. "But, how do you explain this?" He handed her a copy of Lydia's last words. "At the time that she was dying, these were her last words. She wanted to convey a message to you. Do you know why that would be so?"
Lizzy was shocked. Shakily, she said, "No, I do not."
"Have you any idea who George is? Does your sister know any George?"
Liz said, "As a matter of fact she was married to George Wickham. But they divorced long ago."
"Could she be talking about him?" asked Sergeant Lewis. "Does she keep in touch with him?"
"I really couldn't say."
"Another person, a male, was seen fleeing from the scene of the crime. In your opinion, is it possible that it was George? That while, she was dying, your sister wanted you to know something about him?"
Liz thought about it for a moment, "It's possible, yes. But not very probable."
Sergeant Lewis nodded, "Thank you, Mrs. Michaels. You have been very helpful."
As she was getting up to leave, he commented, "Isn't it strange that the sister you haven't talked to for years, would leave a message for you in her last breaths?"
What is he trying to imply? "Yes, it's strange."
With that she left the room, positively fuming. What right had the man to go implying that she had anything to do with Lydia's schemes!!! As Liz came out, she saw that William was waiting for her.
"Hi," he said. "How did it go?"
"Not too bad," she said. "I don't like him, though. He implied that I had some connection with Lydia!!! The mere thought!"
She tried to laugh it off, but she saw William's serious expression.
"I have nothing to worry about," she said again. "I didn't do anything."
Didn't you? William remained silent.
Liz looked at him strangely, "What?! You don't believe me???"
*"Everybody hurts" by R.E.M.
Chapter 26
"You don't believe me?!" Liz repeated with amazement. Seeing William hang his head, "Oh my g-d, you really don't! I don't believe this is happening."
She turned her back to him. William was quick to say, "No, please Lizzy. Don't get me wrong. It's not that I don't believe you...it was just that...well...everything has been really overwhelming for me..."
"You read her note, didn't you," asked Liz quietly, turning to face him.
William nodded miserably, "Sgt. Lewis showed it to me...when I identified her body."
Meanwhile, Liz was thinking about the circumstances herself and she said, "Oh gosh! I stopped you from coming to the concert...and you think...I knew?"
William couldn't see her in so much pain, "No, no, Lizzy...NO...I don't...at least..." He tried to put his arms around her to comfort her, but she moved away.
"I'm going to Jane and mom...they need my support...no matter what Lydia did, she was my sister, and nothing can or will change that." With that, Liz turned on her heels and disappeared from sight, leaving William standing in the middle of the hall, alone, miserable, and more confused than before.
He wasn't sure why there were doubts in his mind, but they were there. Circumstantial evidence certainly wasn't very convincing, but suspicions of Liz's alleged connection with Lydia would run rampant. If only, thought William, there wasn't that damned note! And then there was Wickham...The fact once, a long time ago, Liz had had a fling with Wickham certainly didn't mean that she still was connected with him, but there was a possibility. William's heart screamed that it wasn't possible, but his mind...his mind had its doubts. Maybe it's just the shock of Georgiana's condition. My brain is messed up and my reasoning is not clear. William shook himself out of his reverie. He'd better be heading for Georgie's room.
Meanwhile, as Liz walked away from William, her head was spinning; she was in a daze. She still couldn't believe that all this was happening. It was inevitable, she thought cynically. Just when my life seems to be coming back on track, something bizarre has to happen and destroy any chance of happiness. But this was worse than she'd ever imagined in her worst nightmare. Georgie was in coma, Lydia was dead, and she was suspected to be an accomplice. It was outrageous! The police was one thing, but William...
Liz sighed. She was hurt, very hurt. The knowledge that William would harbor even a smallest doubt as to her connections with the case, mortified her. Wasn't it bad enough that her sister attacked Georgiana? Heaven forbid, if Georgiana never recovered, who would be to blame. Since Lydia was obviously dead, there would always be a suspicion on her. No, she decided she couldn't bear that, she couldn't deal with that. Liz made up her mind, she knew what she had to do.
Meanwhile, in a waiting area.
Richard and Caroline were seated on a couch, with Caroline resting her head on Richard's shoulder. They were both exhausted, obviously, after the events of the night and the past few days.
"Richard?" murmured Caroline.
"Hmmm?"
"This is so awful."
"I know," said Richard. "Wholly unexpected and completely awful."
"Who would have thought that both William and Liz's sisters would be involved together in such a way and that the result would be so fatal."
"Life has a weird way of functioning, I guess."
"But she didn't deserve it," said Caroline. "It's not fair."
"It seldom is," said Richard, cynically.
Caroline was silent for a minute, then she asked him, "What's going to happen? When she wakes up, I mean." If she ever does.
"What do you mean? Legally?"
"Um-hmm...after all, someone did die here tonight."
"It's a little complicated," said Richard. "Criminal cases are not my field of expertise, but I think, that Lydia's death will be pronounced as involuntary manslaughter. Someone actually saw her being attacked, so she'll have no problem there. Her gun was registered and she was licensed to carry it. That makes things so much easier for her. Either way, I don't think she should have any trouble getting acquitted."
"I see," said Caroline. "Now all she has to do is wake up."
Both Caroline and Richard looked at each other, the seriousness of the circumstances overwhelming them.
Jane was having a hard time, trying to deal with so many things altogether. Her mother, her own grief and arrangements for Lydia. Charles was a big help, but it wasn't going to be easy.
Mrs. Bennet sniffed, "But why?! Why would my poor, poor Lydia do such a thing?! She wasn't like that. I say, it's all a big conspiracy!"
"Mom!" exclaimed Jane. "That's ridiculous. There's no way to know what Lydia was doing in New York, but rest assured, there's no conspiracy involved."
Mrs. Bennet was undaunted, "She was always so good...what happened?!" And she wailed.
"Mom, please!" pleaded Jane, with a slight tremble. "This is all hard enough for me as it is. Please don't make it any harder."
The sincerity in Jane's voice struck some kind of a cord with Mrs. Bennet because she quieted down and said, "You're right, Jane. I'm sorry."
Jane smiled and hugged her, "Thanks, mom."
Juts then, Charles came, "I made a few arrangements and some calls...Lydia's service is for day after tomorrow."
"It's 4:30 in the morning," said Mrs. Bennet. "Those places are open already?!"
"This is New York, mom," said Jane, as if that simple fact explained anything bizarre or unexpected. Spotting her sister, she exclaimed, "Lizzy! There you are!" She ran towards her.
The sisters hugged, feeling the pain and silently comforting each other.
Jane said, "So? What did the Sgt. want?"
Liz let out a short, cynical laugh, "What did he want?! Oh nothing much. Just wanted to know what I had to do with Lydia's recent actions, that's all."
Jane said, "Oh, Charles told me about the letter. It's awful! And so strange!"
"What letter?" asked Mrs. Bennet, and Charles told her.
"I was not her favorite sister," said Liz. "And I was far from supporting her in any way...so why me?"
"I don't know..." said Jane. "I can't understand it." After a pause, "What about George? Who could that be?"
"Who else?" said Liz, with a look in her eyes.
"You think it was...Wickham?!" asked Jane.
"I wouldn't be surprised."
"I don't believe it," said Jane. "What would possibly induce him to do something so stupid!"
"I haven't tried to question his motives before, and I'll not start now."
Mrs. Bennet said, "Well, I think it's all a mistake. My girl would never be a part of any crooked scheme like that. I refuse to believe that."
Jane and Liz exchanged glances, but remained silent.
Charles said, "I can't believe she's actually gone."
"Yes, me neither," said Liz. "I hadn't talked to her in so long." Pausing briefly, then, "I could be mean and say she got what she deserved, but I can't! Strangely enough, I can't! In spite of all the pain and suffering she caused, I still loved her!" A few tears trickled down her cheeks.
Jane comforted her. Liz continued, "It's okay, I'm fine."
"You sure?"
"Yeah," Liz nodded. "But I have to go, pick up Rachel. I got someone to baby-sit in the last minute, but Rachel will be getting up soon."
"Take my car," said Charles. "And you can come back to my place. I'll get the others and meet you there."
"I guess," said Jane, thoughtfully. "This cuts our reunion short."
"It sure does," said Liz, as she exited.
3 hours later, at the Bingleys'
The smell of freshly brewed coffee permeated through the living room, but even that didn't lift their spirits...which wasn't surprising, given the circumstances. Mrs. Bennet was taking a nap, but all the others were assembled in the dining room.
Jane offered her guests some breakfast, which they accepted gratefully.
Richard asked, "When will William be here?"
"I'm not sure," said Charles, buttering his toast. "He said he'd drop off some things at his house and then be here. I can't imagine what's keeping him."
"You know," said Caroline. "I think it's rather ironic...just when William and Liz were getting their act together, this had to happen. I wonder what they'll do now."
Jane observed, "I'm not sure what they'll do, but for their sakes' I hope everything works out. I've never met two people who've endured so much heartache."
There was a brief silence, as everyone contemplated the fates of their friends and loved ones. It was hard to imagine that just a couple of hours ago, they were all having such a carefree, fun time at Yale. The same couldn't be said for the present. With the recent mishaps and ensuing legal and medical hassles, it was safe to assume that their party was over.
The bell rang. Jane said, "I'll get it." She returned shortly, with the new arrivals, William and Melissa.
"Hi everyone," said Melissa, while William just murmured a brief greeting.
"Jane," said Melissa. "I just want you to know I'm very sorry about your sister."
All Jane could say was, "Thank you, Melissa."
"I know, how bad you feel," continued Melissa. "When my mom died I was broken for weeks. It's just that you never know how to handle the death of someone so near you."
"Yes, that's true," Jane replied.
"Any change with Georgiana, William?" asked Charles.
"No," he shook his head. "She's still the same...which is why, I've decided to move her from the hospital to my house."
This announcement generated some surprise and evoked some exclamations.
"You know the implications of home care, don't you?" asked Charles. "You'll need excellent attendants and constant supervision of the patient."
"At least I won't have to go to the hospital everyday," said William. "And as for the attendants, I'll hire some. Which reminds me, Melissa offered to help me out with that. Being a trained nurse and all, she's offered to take care of Georgiana. That way I won't have to leave Georgie in some stranger's hands."
Melissa just smiled prettily, while Jane couldn't help but think, Oh gosh! What will Lizzy say? She said, concernedly, "But are you sure? I mean, it is a rather time-taking job and..."
"Oh, no, Jane," cut in Melissa. "I would just love to be of some help to Georgie. She is like my sister."
Jane could say no more, but she dreaded what Lizzy's reaction to all this would be. She knew how Lizzy disliked Melissa, and this would definitely not make her day. Just then, the doorbell rang again. Jane said, "Oh! That must be Lizzy!" She went to the door.
Lizzy's voice could be heard, "Hi Jane! Rachel fell asleep in the car after we stopped for breakfast. I'll put her in your room, okay?" The rest of the conversation was lost as they moved out of range.
Jane came back to the dining room saying, "Oh, that was Lizzy. She'll be down in a moment."
"We heard," said Melissa, dryly. She hoped Lizzy wouldn't foil her plans in any way. She definitely didn't want any competition, but with the state William was in, he wouldn't touch any woman with a 12 feet pole. So she was safe, for the time being.
Shortly afterwards, Lizzy came in with a forced cheerful voice, "Hi! Good morning."
"Back at you," said Richard, good-naturedly.
Lizzy smiled thankfully at him and poured herself some coffee, as she said, "I can't believe so many people were on the road this morning. It just made things worse." She stole a glance at William, who was staring fixedly at his paper.
"I know you had awful time, sweetie," purred Melissa. "But, things will get better, I'm sure."
Lizzy looked at Melissa, with veiled dislike and replied, "Thanks, Melissa. I don't know how I'd survive without your support!"
"Sorry!" she exclaimed. "I was just trying to help."
No one spoke. There was silence and tension. Everyone noticed that William was awfully quiet. He hadn't spoken a word to Liz, yet. It appeared as if things weren't going well. All, but Melissa, were concerned.
To break the ice, Lizzy said, "So, how's Georgiana doing?"
Charles told her. Everything. Her present condition, the prognosis and her transfer to home care with Melissa. It took Lizzy some time to assimilate the information. She was quiet.
Observing her squirm, Melissa said, "Don't you worry about dear Georgie. I'll take good care of her. Of course, you can come and visit anytime. Anytime at all."
As if she can invite me to William's house! The little floozy! "Thank you, but that won't be necessary," said Lizzy tightly. "After Lydia's service day after, I'm leaving New York. I'm going back to Boston."
Everyone looked at her with utter astonishment. Indeed, this morning was full of surprises. "But Lizzy?!" said Jane, directing a questioning glance at Lizzy.
With a surreptitious glance at William, "There's nothing left for me here, Jane. I'm not needed."
Chapter 27
Lizzy's announcement was like a bomb dropped, shocking them all to silence. They had all known that things weren't going well between William and Lizzy, but this...no one could have anticipated such a disaster.
"But Lizzy," Jane tried to say. "You don't mean that. We all need you here."
"Yeah, Liz," said Charles. "You can't leave now."
Richard and Caroline joined in too, and all eyes inevitably turned to William, who was rather conspicuously silent.
"I'm sorry, guys," said Liz. "I don't think I can stay...please try to understand." She had a desperate pleading look in her eyes which silenced them. After all, it was between her and Will. Why should they intervene?
"Of course, we understand!" exclaimed Melissa. "You poor dear!"
Lizzy wasn't sure whether it was triumph or joy speaking, but she chose to ignore Melissa. Breakfast continued in silence. It seemed that no one dared to talk. As soon as everyone was done, Jane took the opportunity to leave, "I'll clear up."
"I'll give you a hand, Jane," said Liz, as they both left for the kitchen.
Liz started loading the dish washer as if nothing was wrong. Jane commented, "What just happened here, Liz?"
"What do you mean?"
"Look, Liz, I'm not stupid. Something upset you...I want you tell me what..."
Liz turned her head ever so slightly, "Listen, Jane...New York depresses me, always has. I don't want to stay."
"But Lizzy..." Jane started to say.
"No, Jane," Lizzy interrupted her. "No more, please."
Jane consented and said no more. No one knew her sister's moods better than her. And when Liz didn't want to confide her problems, no one could make her. But Jane had a pretty good idea, what or who was on her mind. She made a mental note to talk to Charles about it so that he could speak to William.
Later that day
Richard and Caroline had left for their respective houses, saying they'd be back later. Melissa was in the hospital arranging Georgie's move to William's house. All the ladies of the house were upstairs with Rachel...which left Charles and William by themselves.
"William..." started Charles.
"Yes?" he said, looking up from the New York Times, which he must have read a dozen times over since morning.
"Is there something you want to talk about?"
"No," said William, returning to the paper.
Charles was temporarily silenced, but he came back with, "William..."
"What now?"
"I'm concerned."
"About...?"
"About Lizzy," said Charles, knowing how to catch William's attention.
William looked up, staring fixedly at Charles. "Why?"
"She's going back to Boston."
"I think I know that." said William, sarcastically.
"Doesn't it bother you?" asked Charles.
No answer.
"William, I asked you something...doesn't it bother you?" Charles repeated forcefully.
"You know, it does," William said, vehemently.
"Then, why didn't you say something?" said Charles, exasperated. "She announces tearfully that she's going back to Boston and you keep reading that damn paper. What's up with that?"
"You won't understand, Charles," said William, quietly.
"Try me," said Charles.
"It's this whole....thing...you know...," William said.
"No, I don't know," Charles said. "What's wrong with you? Do you still think that Liz was in cahoots with Lydia? Is that it?"
"NO!" cried Will, emphatically. "No, but I had doubts...and I said it to her face...she'll never forgive me for that...and Georgie killed her sister, never mind self-defense...how can I face Liz after all that?!"
"William, you amaze me," Charles stated, simply. "Do you know how lame that sounds?" Charles knew he was being hard on him, but there was no other way. "Have you tried considering that she Liz might actually forgive you for saying such incredibly stupid things?"
"Why would she do that?" asked William.
"Because she loves you," replied Charles.
"Really?" William raised his eyebrows. "No wonder she married my best friend and didn't speak to me these past 5 years!"
"That's because you're so damn stubborn!" Charles almost shouted. "I give up! There's no hope for both of you...I'm sorry I even tried. I'm glad Liz is going away to Boston...at least it'll save some heartache. You lost her once before, Will and you're losing her again. If you want to live your life regretting her, it's your decision. But it's going to be very lonely. Don't say I didn't warn you!" With those harsh words, Charles left the room, leaving William all alone to reflect upon them in peace and quiet.
Meanwhile, in Jane's room
Rachel was still asleep, after waking up for a brief period of time. Liz rocked her quietly staring into space.
"When's dad coming?" she asked Jane, who was reading a magazine.
"Tomorrow," replied Jane. "So are Mary and Kitty."
"Did Charles give mom a sedative?"
"Yes," said Jane. "But she'll be awake any time now."
Liz sighed. "I talked to Charlotte...she's going to be here day after, for Lydia's funeral."
"That's good of her," said Jane. After a brief silence, "Are you sure you absolutely have to go to Boston?"
"Not that again, Jane..." sighed Liz. "I told you..."
"I know what you told me," Jane cut in. "But I think we both know it's not the complete truth."
"So what do you want me say?" Lizzy said. "That I really love William and it hurts me to be here near him when he hates me so much...?"
"But he doesn't hate you, Lizzy," said Jane. "That's the thing...he doesn't!"
"Jane, I'm not a simpleton," said Lizzy. "We both saw his reaction to this whole mess. He blames me and distrusts me...I don't know why, but he does."
"But Liz, if you just talk to him..." Jane suggested.
"No, Jane," Liz shook her head. "It won't do any good. Just consider the last few days as a kind of a time warp, a separate existence. Even if this had not happened, after the reunion was over, we'd both go our separate ways to our separate lives. And that would be the end of it. Even if I did love him, and I'm not saying I do, nothing would change reality."
"And what's reality?" Jane said quietly.
"William and I are not meant to be, never were and never will be. That's the way it was 5 years ago and that's the way it'll be."
Jane watched her sister state this with such a minimal display of emotion that her heart went out to her. She could see that Lizzy was blinking back tears, and trying desperately to hide it. Jane took compassion on her and left the room, leaving Liz to give a free reign to all her suppressed emotions. She stood outside the door long enough to hear muffled cries. Jane shook her head in despair. Lizzy was right. It appeared that some things were just not meant to be.
Dinner time, the same day
Richard and Caroline did not come back for dinner, and neither did Melissa. William had left the house, following his argument with Charles. So, dinner was essentially a family affair.
Mrs. Bennet was rather subdued.
"So, did you book a flight, Lizzy?" asked Charles.
Before she could reply, Mrs. Bennet said, "Book a flight...?! Why Lizzy, where are you going?" Apparently she'd not been informed.
"Back to Boston, ma," Lizzy said.
"But you can't do that!" Mrs. Bennet said. "How are ever going to catch William if he's in New York and you're in Boston!"
"Mom!" exclaimed Lizzy. "I think we've been over this enough. I don't intend to marry William. Can't you just accept that?"
"NO!" said Mrs. Bennet. "Things were going so well...what happened? Did you tick him off? I knew that temper of yours would come to no good!"
Charles looked apologetically at Lizzy for setting Mrs. Bennet off, while Jane said, "Mama, please, it's none of our business."
"Of course, it's our business," said Mrs. Bennet. "She's my daughter!"
Liz shook her head in dismay. She had no wish to put up with this. Rachel was done with her dinner. "If you don't mind, Jane," she said. "I'll take Rachel to bed, now."
She got up and left the table with Rachel in tow. Rachel turned around saying, "Goodnight Aunt Jane, Uncle Chuckie, grandma!"
Jane smiled at her, "Goodnight sweetheart."
Liz looked at them, but said nothing. She went upstairs without a word and locked the door. Charles and Jane just looked at each helplessly.
Later that night; Jane and Charles's room
"Janie," said Charles, as he watched his wife brush her hair. "I almost wished I hadn't had that talk with William...he left because of that."
Jane turned to look at him lovingly. "Well...you tried your best."
"Yes," sighed Charles. "But my best wasn't good enough...he still didn't talk to her. What can I say...they're both too...complicated."
"I know," said Jane. "I had so much hope pinned on this reunion...but I guess it was not meant to be."
Charles nodded, "But there's just so much we can do...the rest is up to them. We can't force them to talk."
"No, we can't," said Jane. "Oh...I wish it wasn't so hard. But I just can't bear to see Lizzy so unhappy. And mom! She's just too much! Salting Lizzy's wounds like that...if only Will had stayed...!"
Charles shook his head, "No, they're both too proud...they've lost their chance. We can't help them now. It would only make things worse."
"Yeah," said Jane. "It's so sad though...tragic even...two people who love each other so implicitly, yet are not destined to be together. These guys make "Romeo and Juliet" seem like a light comedy."
"Oh, enough about them," said Charles, tiredly. "Don't fret, Janie...life will go on."
"Indeed...it will."
The next day
Arrangements were made for Lydia's funeral. People were informed, the location was set up, and the other details were finalized. Charles, Jane and Lizzy saw to all that, as Mrs. Bennet was too distraught to help. Caroline came along with them for moral support. William and Melissa moved Georgie from the hospital to William's house, spending thew whole day, setting everything up. Richard spent half his time helping William with that, and the other half helping with the funeral arrangements.
Lydia's funeral service; The next day
Only the closest family and friends were present since the Bennets did not wish to bring a whole lot of attention to the function. Lydia's death was getting enough publicity already. After the service, all the guests expressed their sympathy and sorrow to the family.
Charlotte was there. "I'm so sorry, Lizzy," she said. "It sounds so superficial, but there's no other way I can express my sympathy."
"I know, Char," said Liz. "I know."
"So, when's your flight?" she asked.
"In 2 hours," replied Liz. "Will you come to see me off?"
"Of course," said Charlotte. "But I wish you'd reconsider. If you don't want to stay in New York, you could always come back with me to Yale..."
And keep thinking about Will, no way! "Thanks, Char...but it's better this way." Changing the topic, "So...how's it going with Tyler?"
Charlotte blushed, "Pretty good, I think. He's really nice, once you get to know him."
"I'm glad, Char," said Liz. "I only wish you the very best." If only things were as easy for me.
Liz, then went away to talk to the other guests. She said goodbye to Richard and Caroline, since they wouldn't be at the airport.
"Good luck, you two," she said to them.
She was about to go talk to her father when she bumped into somebody. It was William. Her heart beat furiously. "Um...hi William. Sorry about that."
"No, no, it's okay," he said, madly thinking of something to say.
"I didn't think you'd come."
"But I had to," he said. "I mean...I wouldn't miss it...I'm sorry about your sister, Liz. Accept my condolences."
"Thank you," she said.
William looked into her eyes wishing he had the courage to say what was on his mind, but he didn't. He crushed every desire to take her in his arms and beg for forgiveness. He crushed every impulse to kiss her passionately and make things right. He crushed the urge to fall on his knees and beg her to marry him. He simply stood there regarding her earnestly, without a word.
"Well..." she said, rather breathlessly, distracted by his fixed stare. "I'd better be going. Goodbye, William..."
Oh god! Don't leave me... "Goodbye Liz...give Rachel my love."
"I will," she said, and went away with a heavy heart. For a moment she thought that Will would say something, but it was obviously her imagination. He despised her and wanted to have nothing to do with her. She'd better get used to it.
2 hours later; JFK Airport.
"Goodbye Lizzy, bye Rachel," said Charles, hugging the latter.
"Take care Lizzy," said Jane, kissing her sister goodbye.
"I'll call you, Lizzy," said Charlotte, hugging her friend.
"Bye everyone," said Liz, as her plane's boarding announcement was made. "Say bye Rachel, bye bye."
Rachel waved goodbye, smiling as if she had not a care in the world, which she didn't. Lizzy smiled at them, too, a reserved, forced smile. And then she was gone from sight.
"Well..." said Charlotte. "There she goes..."
What none of them observed was the hidden figure of a man watching the entire seen from afar. William Darcy could not find it in his heart to let Lizzy go without seeing her one last time. He didn't let anyone know he was there. He just watched her silently, studying her every expression, every line, every curve. He committed it all to memory, since it would be his only comfort for the nights. He saw her say goodbye to her sister and friends affectionately. At that time, he would have given anything to be close to her. But that was not to be, of course. He saw her take leave and board the plane. He saw the plane take off. He saw all the happiness of his life take off...once again.
"Goodbye, Lizzy..." he whispered to himself. "I'll never stop loving you...as long as I live. And I can only hope that you...that you don't live your life hating me..." The grief was so unbearable for William that he couldn't stop himself from letting go of his emotions and the tears flowed freely.
Chapter 28
The next few days.
Everything went back to routine, so to speak. Charles and Jane settled back in their house. Richard and Caroline moved in together in Richard's apartment. Georgie's care unit was set up at William's with Melissa in-charge. Charlotte and Tyler hit it off together and saw each other frequently. Liz and Rachel reached Boston safe and sound. Everyone went back to work. Christmas was over. The reunion was history.
New Year's Eve.
This day was normally a time of parties and celebration, but a gloom had overcast the festive spirit. Liz couldn't make it from Boston, and Charlotte was busy in New Haven. William spent the evening by Georgie's bedside, with Melissa close at hand. Jane, Charles, Richard, and Caroline had a little dinner party, nothing fancy. Liz, on the other hand, spent the time quietly at home with Rachel, watching TV. She called Jane that evening.
"Hello?" Jane answered the phone.
"Jane? It's me," said Liz.
"Lizzy!" Jane exclaimed. "I was just about to call you! How are you?"
"I'm fine, Jane," said Liz. "How are you? And Charles?"
"Oh, we're doing great!" said Jane, cheerfully. "Happy New Year's, hon.!"
"Happy New Years, Jane!" Liz greeted her.
"Can I talk to Rachel?"
"Oh...she's asleep...maybe I could wake her up, but..."
"Oh, no, no!" Jane said, hurriedly. "Don't wake her up. It's okay. We can talk another time. I wish you were here, Lizzy."
Liz sighed on the other end, "Yeah, I wish I was with you guys...I can hear Carrie in the background..."
"Yeah, she's here with Richard," said Jane.
"And no one else?" Liz was fishing.
"No, it's just us," said Jane, resolving to say nothing of William till she asked.
"Hope I'm not disturbing you, Janie."
"Of course not!" Jane said. "But what are you doing...?"
"Oh nothing...watching TV, by myself...pretty pathetic, huh?"
"Lizzy!" Jane admonished her. "You know that's not right! You could have been at 20 parties at this time...but you chose to stay home with your daughter...I won't call that pathetic!"
Liz smiled to herself. Jane could always make her feel better. "Thanks, Janie. I needed that...by the way, how's Georgiana doing?"
"Still the same," replied Jane. "I'm so sorry for her, poor girl."
"She's at home, isn't she? With William..."
Jane could almost hear her pleading for information. "Yes, she is. That's why William couldn't make it tonight. He wanted to stay with her."
"Oh." Was all her response. "Well...I won't keep you...talk to you later, Jane. Bye."
"Bye, Lizzy," said Jane. "Take care."
The sisters hung up. Charles was at Jane's side. "Was that Lizzy?"
"Yes," Jane nodded. "She sounded okay...not very depressed."
"Good," said Charles. "I was worried...well, let's go." He led Jane back to the dining room, by her waist.
That night as the countdown for the New Year began, people all over the world reveled in the proximity of their loved ones...with the possible exception of a few...William and Lizzy among them. Their thoughts were on each other, though they were miles apart. And in spite of their ever present aching need of that illusive feeling we call love, they both made a silent resolution...a New Year's resolution...a resolution to forget each other...or at least, try.
The next month.
Most of January passed without any remarkable occurrence. Life went on, so to say. While most people looked ahead towards the New Year with new hope and expectations, some others looked back at the past reflecting over it's merits and their own actions. It may be fair to assume that these people had a guilty conscience. Melissa was one of them. Tending after Georgiana in such close proximity, day after day, with little effect, did not serve to make her any happier. She knew that she was responsible for her condition and if, heaven forbid, Georgiana did not recover...Melissa didn't know how she would live with herself.
No matter what people said, even shameless, remorseless individuals have a heart...most of them, anyway. And Melissa could not look at Georgie's immobile, glass-like, lifeless face without thinking that she put her there. Of course, she hadn't meant to, but it had been her plan. Worse still, William seemed no closer to Melissa, than he was before the accident. Her whole purpose for the scheme had been to infiltrate his life and become and essential part of it. But that wasn't working. William saw her simply as the health care attendant for Georgiana, and he was very grateful, too.
But Melissa wanted more. She suspected that Elizabeth was still on William's mind, and she hated Liz for that. Knowing or unknowingly Liz had captured William's heart in such a way that he was spoiled for any other woman. He would not let anyone into his heart, even if any chances of getting Liz seemed remote. Melissa was frustrated.
Towards the end of January, one fine morning, after William was gone, the phone rang.
"Hello?" Melissa picked it up.
"Melissa?" a hoarse voice whispered.
"Yes," she said, faintly recognizing it. "Who is it?"
"It's George, baby."
"George! What the ----! Why are you calling me...at William's house, no less!" Melissa exploded.
"He's not around, is he?" Wickham said, quietly.
"No, but - "
"Good," said Wickham, interrupting her. "You didn't think I'd just go away, did you?"
"Where are you?" said Melissa, trying to ignore the threatening note in his voice. "Don't you know how dangerous this is!! If William finds out..."
"He won't...unless you tell him," said Wickham. "I'm very close, baby...in Jersey. And right now, I need cash."
Melissa knew it was coming. "Well, I don't have any...go to the bank or something."
"With my record...are you kidding me...?!!" Wickham sniggered, unpleasantly. "I need $10,000, don't ask me why. Just get it."
"$10,000!!!" Melissa shouted. "I don't have that kind of money."
"But rich boy Darcy does," said Wickham, bitterly. "Which is why, you're going to get it for me. We had a deal, remember?"
"But George!" Melissa almost wailed. "This is insane. I can't just ask him for it. What do you expect me to do? Steal it?"
"I don't care how you do it," said Wickham. "I just want the money in 2 weeks. Now that's a long time. You're smart. You'll figure something out, I'm sure."
"But George...what if I can't," she said.
"Lets just say...that in the interest of your health...it'd be best if you did find some way to pay me for my services," said Wickham, menacingly. "You wouldn't want to end up like poor Lydia, would you?"
Melissa trembled, knowing that Wickham meant every word that he said, "Okay, George...I'll have the money ready...but how will I contact you?"
"Don't worry," said Wickham, pleasantly. "I'll contact you. Bye kiddo."
Melissa hung up, sweating. Now what'll I do? She moaned to herself. Ohhh....
Meanwhile, at Messieurs Darcy & Fitzwilliam.
"But there has to be some way!" William exclaimed. "He can't just get away with it."
Richard, sitting opposite William, sighed, "I don't know, Will...He's gotten away before."
"But not this time," William declared. "I'll hunt down Wickham all the way across the globe, if I have to. But I won't let him get away, not this time. He has hurt me one too many times."
Richard looked intently at William, "But you can't even prove it was him."
"But Lydia wrote 'George'..." said William. "I know, I know...that doesn't prove anything. But in my mind, I have no doubt whatsoever that he was involved...he was the guy who was seen fleeing from the scene."
Richard said, "But even that eyewitness didn't his face...unless Georgie wakes up, I'm afraid there's nothing we can do."
William walked up to the window, staring at the snow, "Oh, you don't know, Rich...you don't know how it feels...to get up each day and be greeted by Georgie's lifeless form. I just wish there was something, anything, that I could do!"
Richard watched him, sympathetically. "I know what you're going through, Will. and believe me, I feel the same. I love Georgie, too, you know. It hurts me to see her like that, as much as you. But what can we do...lets just hope she wakes up soon."
"Yes," replied William. "She will, she has to. For my sake." William shuddered at the thought of losing Georgie, as he had Liz. He'd lost one of the two most important women of his life, already. He couldn't bear to think what would happen if he lost the other. He knew that he wouldn't survive that, even if he wanted to.
He turned around, "Okay, Rich...let's get back to work. Where were we?"
Chapter 29
Elizabeth waited patiently for Dr. Gary Santora in the waiting room. Her appointment had been scheduled for 8:30 and it was now past 9...she'd be late for work. But there was no getting away. This had to be done. She flipped aimlessly through the magazines, but found that she couldn't pay any attention to them. She was a little concerned and she wished Dr. Santora would come out. He'd been with the last patient for hours, it seemed. But that was just the way he was. He gave each patient his complete, undivided attention. That was what was special about him.
At length, he emerged from the patient exam room, and told Liz that it was her turn to go in. Liz smiled as brightly as she could. Filled with apprehension, she followed him to his clinic. He asked her to be seated.
"So, Liz..." Dr. Santora began. "How is Rachel doing? In good health, I hope."
"Yes, she's doing great," replied Liz, with a smile. "Thank you."
"You look tired," he continued. "Have you been working hard lately?"
"Nah," said Liz. "The usual. But you know, there's always work to be done in a lawyer's office."
Dr. Santora nodded, "Of course. Well, at least you took some time off during Christmas. That must have been good, huh?"
Liz smiled thinly while thinking You have no idea...She was really getting anxious, "Um...Gary...about my test...?"
"Um...yes...your test...well," Dr. Santora cleared his throat. "I was just getting to that...you see..."
"Gary," Liz said, looking straight at his dodging eyes. "Is there a problem?"
"As a matter of fact, there is," Dr. Santora told her. "I'm sorry, Liz...very, very sorry." He proceeded to tell her the results.
"Noooo!" cried Liz, in shock. "There must be some mistake. That can't be right. Gary, tell me it's a mistake?"
Dr. Santora just shook his head, "I'm sorry, Liz...it's not a mistake."
The same day; New York City
There was a knock at William's door. "Come in," he said, not looking up.
Richard came in with a foolish grin on his face, "Good morning, Will! It's a beautiful day, isn't it?"
William looked out his window and saw that it was overcast, windy and absolutely freezing. Then he looked back at Richard. "Yes, lovely," he said, sarcastically. "So...? What's the big news?" He asked Richard, though he guessed the answer already.
"Caroline and I are getting married!!!" Richard exclaimed. "We got engaged last night! Isn't it just great?!"
William congratulated his cousin warmly, "How'd it happen?"
Richard was more than happy to tell him, "It was perfect. I took her out to dinner yesterday to her favorite restaurant and then popped the question right smack in the middle of coffee. And she said yes! I was afraid she might not...but she did! You don't know how happy I am! I love her so much and I'm pretty sure she loves me back!"
William just smiled at his love-sick cousin, "Congratulations, Rich. You and Caroline are just perfect for each other. I know you'll be great together. I wish you all the best."
"Thanks, Will!" Richard said enthusiastically and he left the room as quickly as he came in, probably to spread the good news.
William stared after him, thinking about how this news affected him. He was very happy for his cousin, of course. But he was sad at the same time...sad about the dismal condition of his own life...with his one and only love out of his reach. William knew it was pathetic the way he was wallowing in self-pity and being selfish when actually he should be focussing on Richard, but he just couldn't help it. Seeing how easy it was for Rich and Caroline to be happy together, he couldn't understand why love was so elusive for him and Liz. Perhaps it was just not meant to be...
William took out an old picture of Liz he always carried in his wallet. It was an old, college picture and it had faded considerably over the years. But William had not allowed it to be lost. He had preserved it like a treasure and it was his only link to his beloved Liz. The picture had Liz standing in front of Yale Library with her guitar. She looked radiant and beautiful as ever with a huge grin on her face. John had taken this picture, he remembered, but for some reason he couldn't recall he'd given it to William. It was his gain.
William found that he couldn't return to work, so he picked up the phone and called home. Melissa answered it, "Hello?"
"Hey Melissa! Just checking...everything alright?"
"Of course! Sure. Fine."
"How's Georgiana?" William never failed to ask.
"Still the same," answered Melissa. It'd been over a month since her accident and she showed no signs of recovery. Even the medical unit was starting to wonder.
"Okay," said William. "Oh, btw, Richard and Caroline are getting married."
"Oh really!" Melissa exclaimed. "That's great! Say congratulations to him from me."
"Yes, I will," said William. "Well...bye then. Take care."
"Bye William," said Melissa, as she switched to the other line, where George was waiting. "George? Still there?"
"Here, babe. Who was that? William?"
"Yeah," said Melissa. "So where was I? Oh yeah...my credit is worse than yours, George. There's no way I'm going to get $10,000 loan...I'm in debt, big time...that's why I was desperate for William in the first place, remember?"
George sneered, "Babe...that's not my problem...I'll extend your deadline a little, but that's it. I need the dough. I don't care how you get it...rob a bank, if need be."
"George!" cried Melissa. "Please!"
"Tough luck, babe," said George. "Next time, think before you hire any services. This world don't go around without no cash, right?"
"Right," said Melissa slowly. "Okay...I'll find a way."
"Good girl," George mocked her. "I knew you'd come around. Bye now."
"Bye George."
Melissa hung up the phone, knowing that some desperate measures were afoot. She knew what she had to do, but was sorry that it'd come to this.
February 2; New York City; 9 a.m.
Jane was just getting ready for work, when the phone rang. "I'll get it," she shouted to Charles. "Hello?"
"Jane?" It was Liz.
"Lizzy!" Jane exclaimed. "What's wrong, dear?" It was not like her to call so early in morning, especially on a weekday.
"Um...I got an assignment in New York, Jane," said Lizzy. "I'll be staying there for sometime."
"Oh that's great!" Jane exclaimed. "How long?"
"I don't know," Lizzy said. "But I'll be there in 5 days."
"You move quick, don't you?" Jane laughed. "Good for you, Lizzy! I'd love to see you! And Rachel too! Of course, you'll stay with us till you find your own place."
"Thanks Jane," Liz thanked her sincerely. "Well...I won't be keeping you long...talk to you later, okay?"
"Fine," said Jane. "Bye!"
"Bye Jane!" Lizzy hung up with a heavy feeling in her heart. She had had an impulse to tell Jane straight away. But she resisted. It was just not something you tell someone over the phone, especially your sister. No, she'd have to wait. Besides there was still a hope in Liz's heart that somehow the reality would go away and she'd find out the whole nightmare was a just dream.
February 7; New York City; The Bingleys'
Lizzy and Rachel had just come to New York this morning and Jane decided to report late for work. After talking with Liz a bit, Charles had left for work. So Jane and Liz would be at home.
After a good half-hour spent talking, Jane said, "You look pale, Lizzy...is something the matter?"
Lizzy decided it was not the best time for Jane to find out, "No, Jane! I'm fine...absolutely...never been better." She lied through her teeth and prayed that she'd not go to heel for that.
Jane accepted it, "Okay. Must be the flight then. I know it doesn't suit you." She watched Rachel play with her toys, "But Rachel seems to be doing fine."
"Yes, she is."
Then, Jane said, "Oh, Lizzy...btw, tonight I invited a few people over for dinner...sort of a semi engagement party. There's Richard, Caroline...and William...and Melissa...I couldn't help inviting her you know since she's living with William now..."
"Yes, I understand," said Liz. "No problem, Jane."
"Well...I'll be off to work then," said Jane getting up. "Be ready by 6, okay?"
"Sure Jane," said Liz, and watched her sister leave. She thought about the prospect of seeing William again and frankly, didn't like it one bit. She couldn't pretend it didn't bother her, but she wasn't going to let Jane know that. She'd have to be strong and face him without any sign of her feelings escaping her. If she stayed in New York, she'd just have to get used to being around him. That was just a fact. And she'd resigned herself to it.
6 p.m.; The Bingleys'
Lizzy was all dressed up in a little, black cocktail dress. Even Rachel was wearing her cute, little outfit. Lizzy was helping Jane out with dinner, but she was a nervous wreck. She was making the salad and she just whacked the carrots mercilessly.
Jane, who was making the soup, said, "Gee, Lizzy...William's not here yet, you know."
Liz gave Jane a dirty look, and continued with her salad, "What's that got to do with anything?"
"Oh nothing," smiled Jane, innocently. "Just an idle comment, that's all."
15 minutes later
The bell rang and Liz answered it. It was Richard and Caroline.
"Lizzy!" exclaimed Caroline, hugging her friend.
"Hey Carrie!" Liz greeted her. Then, she hugged Rich, "Congratulations, you two. I'd have never thought you'd ever get married and especially to each other!"
Caroline and Richard exchanged amused, love-filled glances and whatever doubts Liz had had about them, melted away. "Oh, come on in..."
Rachel came in the living room, and talked and played with Carrie, Rich and Charles. Minutes later, the bell rang again. "I'll get it," said Liz, knowing who it'd be.
She opened the door and held her breath. It was William, all alone. No Melissa. And he looked gorgeous...absolutely!
"Um...hi William," Liz finally said, after a few moments.
"Hi...Elizabeth," he said, throatily.
"Want to come in?" she asked, rather stupidly. Duh! He just came here to see your face!
"Sure," he said, entering. "So...how are you?"
"I'm fine," she said. "And you?"
"Good."
"What about Georgiana?" asked Lizzy.
"Still the same, pretty much," answered William, looking into her eyes. "But we keep hoping for the best."
"Yes," said Lizzy. She was just about to say something when a loud voice from the door interrupted. It was Melissa, "Argh! The parking was such a squeeze! Jeez! Oh, hey Liz! Didn't know you'd be here."
"Neither did I," said Liz, glancing at William, from the corner of her eyes. "Now, if you'll excuse me..." And she left for the living room.
William and Melissa followed her in silence. William had known that Liz would be there, but he was just not prepared enough to see her again. She looked as beautiful as ever, if not more...at least in his eyes. She was absolutely breath-taking, and that only made matters worse. Now he'd have to go through the entire evening pretending that she was not in his mind every second. And the fact that the entire gathering was aware of their situation didn't help either. And then there was Melissa. William sighed, and braced himself for a painful evening ahead.
Meanwhile, similar thoughts were going through Liz's mind. Now that he was finally here, Liz could not help but feel her resolve weaken, as she squelched every impulse to run into his arms. He looked thoughtful and quiet and showed no emotion or reaction to her whatsoever. There was a little awkwardness, but nothing that spoke of any real feelings he might have had for her. Liz was disillusioned. Now, definitely, she knew for a fact, that he no longer cared for her. It pained her, but she had to accept it. It would be hard, but Liz was determined not to betray any of her inner desires to anyone. She sighed, and braced herself for a painful evening ahead.
As Jane served the hors d'oeuvre for the adults, it was time for little Rachel's dinner, since she'd be going to bed soon. Liz excused herself and took her to the kitchen. Rachel was busy eating her dinner, when William entered the kitchen with some empty glasses.
"Where do I put these?" he asked Liz, and she showed him.
She expected him to leave, but instead, he sat down on a stool next to Rachel. He smiled at her and said to Liz, "I thought you might like some company." He smiled at her.
Liz's heart almost stopped as she saw his dimples. "Um...yes...thank you!"
William nodded in acknowledgement and talked with Rachel. Rachel was usually a very shy baby, but once she got to know you, she could be quite the chatter-box. And she had really been taken with William. Hence, they had quite a bit of talk, most of which William didn't understand anyway, but he tried.
Liz watched them quietly, feeling her heart wrench. Wasn't it hard enough to come in terms with the whole William-thing already. Now she'd have to witness how truly wonderful he really was. Why was god doing this to her...just to show her what she'd lost? It was almost too cruel, and Liz wasn't sure how much more she could take. She knew there was no way they'd get back together, especially with her condition.
Suddenly Rachel addressed Liz, "Mommy...?"
"Yes, honey?" said Liz.
"Can Wiaum be my daddy?" Rachel asked innocently, still not being able to pronounce William's name.
Liz's eyes quickly darted towards William, who looked back at her awaiting her reply. "No, honey...you already have a daddy."
"But he won't come back," said Rachel, with a pout.
Liz felt tears in her eyes, "No, he won't."
"So, why can't I have a new daddy?"
Liz was silent. She didn't know how to answer Rachel. She only wished that her world was as simple as Rachel's, but it wasn't. She was so uncomfortable. She couldn't figure out what William was feeling at that moment.
She sighed, "Honey...you can't just get a new daddy like that. And besides, William has his own family. He doesn't want to be your daddy."
There! Now the ball was in his court. He could handle her for himself.
William thought...Don't want to be her daddy! Are you kidding me! Lizzy...don't play with me like that. You know how I feel. "Sure, I want to be your daddy, Rachel. And I will be, if your mommy will let me." There! He'd said it.
Liz blushed and was about to say something when Melissa came running into the kitchen.
"William! William! Oh g-d!"
"What happened?" asked William, with concern.
"It's Georgiana," said Melissa, breathlessly. "She's waking up...she came back to us!"