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Chapter One
The sunset brushed the sky the colors of a bleeding heart. The shadows drew long over the beach and men in white shirts lit torches along the waterfront. Down the beach, a framework of wood held white strips of linen as curtains, partitioning off a private party from the rest of the world. The salty breeze erased the footprints of the daytime water-worshippers, leaving a smooth white canvas for the gentle brush of moonlight. Then the wind died. Through the stillness, the sounds of a cork popping and laughter carried down the beach. Sparks from a bonfire reached upwards as if they wished to join the moon and stars in their dance across the sky.
A young waitress in a long white skirt made her way to the beach chair where a lone figure sat, two hundred feet from the party. "Señor?" His eyes were closed, and she admired the chiseled features. They had an air of refinement, but were lent ruggedness by dark stubble that shadowed a firm jaw and tousled dark hair that curled slightly over one eyebrow. American? No, the clothes were too tailored and the lips too firm. British, then. She tapped him lightly on the shoulder and spoke in a louder voice. "Señor..." She was startled when the lids snapped open, revealing astonishingly deep blue eyes. It wasn't only their color that set her pulse racing, but also the anger they contained, aided by the reflection of torch light on the spheres of stormy blue. She stepped back a little with her hand to her throat.
"Leave me." The tone was not angry, as she had expected. The words were softly spoken and contained a profound weariness and a hint of sadness.
"La playa...the beach...she is closed to tourists now..." She hesitated uncertainly, but the eyes had closed again. Deciding that she had done her job in warning him, the young woman took one last glance at the handsome stranger and left, headed back to the party where her work was just beginning for the evening.
He ran a hand across his rough face to clear his mind, then sat up. The moonlight played across the sea in a waltz with the gentle waves and breeze. His brow furrowed as he studied the timeless play of wind, water and light. One hand opened to reveal a small velvet box. A gentle click broke the stillness as the cover snapped open. The diamond inside was more brilliant in starlight than it ever could have been in the light of day. He lifted the tiny circlet of gold between two fingers and read the inscription by torchlight. The muscles in his jaw worked as he fought to contain his emotions.
He raised the ring to his lips then closed his fist around it. With all of the force in his body, he pitched it into the waves. It arched through the air, sparking like a shooting star as the moon kissed it before it slid into the satin embrace of the water. As the ring sank into the deep, it sparkled its last before its brilliance was forever covered by water as velvety blue as the box from which the ring came.
"Farewell."
A changed man, he turned his back on the beautiful ocean and walked towards the storm clouds that gathered threateningly on the horizon.
Chapter Two
The plane shook slightly as it descended through the dreary rain to touch down on a runway shiny with rain and reflected runway lights. Heathrow Airport was bustling with its usual crowd of business travelers and families headed off on summer holidays. Alexander Waterpool slipped the strap of his leather carry-on over his shoulder and passed through customs without any trouble. As he headed to the baggage claim, Alex wove his way around a group of college students who had, typical to Americans, taken over a large area by piling their brightly colored backpacks and bags in a large heap. They smiled brightly despite the jet-lag gray tinge to their faces, announcing that they were recent arrivals.
Adjusting the strap on his shoulder, Alex started towards the automatic doors and the dismal London rain.
During the long taxi ride to his family townhouse, Alex stared out the window at the incessant London rain. With a slight grin, Alex realized that he had actually missed the rain. Spain had its attractions, but it was not London. It was not home.
The high-class residential street was quietly welcoming as commuters returned home from a long day at work. The streetlights flickered to life, and their light reflected on the dark, wet pavement as the black taxi stopped in front of the house. Alex's spirits lifted as he turned the brass doorknob. He had not told anyone when he would return, but warm light and the succulent odors of dinner invited him inside.
Welcoming family servants immediately surrounded him. The butler took his wet coat, a glass of brandy was placed in his hands, and his favorite dog panted at his feet. His personal servant smiled as he threw another log on the fire in the study.
"We did not expect you home, sir. But you sure chose a good day to come. Fanny is baking an excellent dinner for Master Brian. Your brother returned from Switzerland yesterday and has asked for roast and apple strudel."
Alex rose to his feet with a broad smile. "Where is he now, planning his next adventure?"
Alex was directed to the warm oak library. He opened the door to find his younger brother seated on the floor in front of a leather chair. He had an atlas and a half dozen books open in front of him. The young man looked up in surprise, then leaped to his feet and pounded his brother on the back. His wide smile looked brilliantly white against his tan skin.
"So the wayward traveler has returned!"
Alex dropped to the floor next to his brother and took a stack of photographs from under the leaf of one of the books. As he flipped through the glossy pictures, the smile on his face grew. The photos showed several ski runs and some great mountain shots. The majority of them, however, were taken of a procession of tall, beautiful blondes. Alex raised an eyebrow as he studied his younger brother.
"So this is how you spent your month in Switzerland. Who is this?"
Brian grinned, "Marta, from Vienna. Oh, and that is Gerta, absolutely perfect in every way." He took the pictures. "But this is Elsa. She's from Stockholm. I'm going to visit her in a month. Her family has a vacation home on a mountain. She says that even the Swiss can't match the scenery and the skiing is a close second." He smiled at his older brother with eyes as deep green as Alex's were blue. "You should come with. Elsa's sister Kiersten is gorgeous, too. She wants to meet you."
Alex sighed and rose to his feet. "I think that dinner is ready."
Brian closed the atlas and set the pictures aside. "Alex, you aren't still thinking about Kate Bennet, are you?"
Alex turned to his brother with a frown. "How did you..."
Brian laughed, "Sure, I was traveling the world, but that doesn't mean that I was disconnected from all of the news from home. All of those jealous debutantes were seething about your renewed friendship with her. Those I ran into on my trip told me awful things about Kate. They were trying, I think, to get me to 'enlighten' you. Of course, I figured that it was your business. Then I heard of her engagement at the same time I received your first E-mail from Spain...You didn't mention as much in letters, but if the girls were so vicious, I knew that you must have been serious." His smile disappeared, "you were, weren't you? So much so that you exiled yourself for almost two years?"
Alex paused with his hand on the doorjamb. "I was...but that is over." He forced a smile. "It's nice to be around you again, little brother. Maybe I will take you up on that trip to Sweden."
Brian laughed and clapped his brother on the shoulder. "That's right, old man, don't let it get to you.
Chapter Three
The marble gallery of the Majestic Theater was filled to capacity. The air surged with the electric current of excitement. The melodic tinkle of crystal champagne flutes and staccato laughter blended with the urgent whisper of dozens of voices. Spheres of amber, sapphire, emerald, and silver gleamed in greed and anticipation as the crowd awaited the signal.
The atmosphere inside the theater itself was entirely different. Plush carpet and heavy velvet draperies muffled the sound of the crowd just outside the ornately carved doors. The slithery whisper of silk against stockings, muted whispers, and the dry rustling of turning pages were the only other sounds in the room. A scarlet curtain was drawn gracefully across the stage.
Georgiana Darcy sat stiff-backed in her velvet chair, eyes darting around the room. A dog-eared catalogue rested on her lap, open to the first page. There were tiny notes in the margins, written in an elegant hand. Georgiana's gloved hand clutched a cream paper paddle with a large, stylized 77 on both sides.
Suddenly, there was a noticeable hush in the crowd noise from the gallery. The tinkle of gentle chimes implored the rest of the crowd to enter the lavish theater as the lights began to dim. Georgiana turned slightly in her chair, scanning the crowd with a worried frown marring her delicate features. She jumped slightly as a white-gloved hand rested on her shoulder. She lifted her face with a relieved smile as warm lips brushed her cheek. The gentleman walked around the end of the row to take a seat next to Georgiana.
"Forgive me, my dear." He noticed that she was crumpling her catalogue nervously, and took one of her hands in his. "Please don't worry. It is a little nerve-wracking the first time, isn't it?"
Georgiana nodded and moved slightly closer. "You will help me, won't you?"
Brown eyes crinkled in a smile. "Of course I will. Just relax..." He paused as his cell phone rang.
"I probably shouldn't have this in here, but I have to..." He answered the phone in a low voice. Georgiana watched as his eyebrows pulled together in a worried expression. He hurriedly turned to Georgiana and excused himself. "Ginny, I'm sorry...I have to take this, it's Elizabeth."
Georgiana squeezed his hand. "I'll come with."
William's brow was furrowed as he kissed Georgiana's forehead. "No, I am sure everything will be all right. We're going to bring Jeffery to Walk-in care. It's probably just a cold, but we want to be sure." He threw his coat over his arm. "Will you be all right?"
Georgiana laughed shakily. "I'll be fine. Go take care of my nephew."
William gave his sister a quick squeeze. "You will do just fine. You know what you want and know your price line. I'll have the car return to bring you home at seven. Good luck, Georgiana."
After he left, Georgiana leaned back in her seat with a sigh. She was in a room full of strangers, at her very first auction, and very unsure of herself. All she knew was that she had to get that painting.
Anne Darcy, her mother, had received a gorgeous painting as a wedding present. The work was in luminous oil colors painted in such a way that from a distance it almost looked like a watercolor. The figures in the painting had a transparent quality about them, as if they were from a dream. It was the type of painting that captures the attention. As newlyweds, Anne and George had spent hours making up stories together about the characters in the painting. After Anne died, Georgiana's father sold the painting. He said that it held too many memories.
After George passed away, William and Georgiana happened upon the painting at a house party. Georgiana fell in love with it immediately, but when her brother told her the story behind it, she decided that she had to own it. Georgiana would always mourn the fact that she never really had a chance to know her mother. To own this painting that her mother loved so, that she wove her fantasies around, would give Georgiana a little piece of her mother's soul.
The chimes sounded again and there was a last minute shuffle for the remaining seats. Then the room was silent, except for a soft rustle as everyone turned to the first page of the catalogue.
Chapter Four
It was raining again. It had been raining ever since Alex returned home over a week ago. At first he had found it comforting, but now it was starting to bother him just a little bit. Alex frowned slightly as he closed the hinged windows in his room so that the carpet would not become damp. He was musing how rain had the ability to inspire a reflective state of mind, which was exactly not the mood that he wanted to be in. As he closed the last casement against the fragrant, damp air, he heard rapid footfalls in the hall outside of his rooms.
"We're late!"
Alex turned from the window with a grin as his younger brother stuck his head around the door. Brian was dressed to the nines in an expertly tailored tuxedo. He pulled spotlessly white gloves onto his hands as he strode into the room. Alex held up one finger as Brian looked pointedly at his watch. He shrugged into his tuxedo coat and ran a hand through his dark hair before pulling on his own gloves. Finally, Alex stood before his brother with a black coat flung over his arm and a broad smile on his handsome face.
"I'll need a shoehorn to pry them away from you! No woman will notice me next to you, brother. Alexander Waterpool III, London's most eligible bachelor is making his grand re-entrance into London Society tonight!"
Alex rolled his eyes. "I've never known a woman to turn down those dimples, Brian."
Brian adjusted his white bow tie in a mirror. "Right, Alex. You have the very same dimples and the Waterpool fortune, as well."
"So, Brian, why are you dragging me to this auction?"
Brian slipped a photograph from his pocket. "This."
Alexander studied the dark picture. He wasn't too impressed.
Brian grinned. "Elsa saw this painting at a party in London last summer. She knew that it was going to be up for sale and told me that I had to get it for her, no matter the cost."
Alex raised an eyebrow. "The cost to you, or to her?"
Brian slid the photograph back in his pocket. "She insisted on paying and slid me a cashier's check, but if it goes above that, I'll cover the cost. She is worth it, Alex...but it's all for naught if we're late!"
They raced to the door, taking the stairs two at a time. The driver held an umbrella over their heads as they crawled into the sleek gray limousine. Alex brushed water off of the sleeve of his coat and settled against the plush velvet seat.
Lightning streaked the sky as the car stopped in front of the theater. Grateful for the covered carport in front of the theater that kept the hard rain from their shoulders, Brian and Alex entered the elegant marble hallway and handed their coats to a liveried attendant. Brian grabbed an auction catalogue and they walked through the wide doors that an usher held for them. Although they tried to be as quiet as possible so to not draw attention, the few people near the doors who saw them whispered to their neighbors. Soon, many people were watching the Waterpool brothers as they looked for a seat. Magically, seats opened up next to eligible young girls as mothers pretended that they were too faint to withstand another round of bidding and offered to give their seat to one of the young gentlemen. Politely declining these offers, Alex and Brian stood along the back wall as they waited for the next round to start.
The crowd became quiet as the soft chimes rang again. This time there was little flipping of the catalogues, because everyone had relaxed into the auction mode. Experienced bidders and novices alike leaned forward as the heavy velvet curtain raised to reveal the first painting. The bidding was fierce, but polite. There was a collective chuckle as one gentleman reluctantly bowed to the final bidder. Several other paintings of minor importance passed across the heavily polished stage. The audience was enjoying itself, for paintings always invited the most interesting and vigorous bidding.
Brian excused himself for a moment. "Alex, if the piece comes up before I return, please bid for me. Unless the price becomes obscene, do what you can to obtain it." He handed Alex a cream paddle with the number 337 on it.
Four paintings crossed the stage, and Brian still had not returned. Finally, the auctioneer unveiled the reason for their attendance. This one was a personal favorite of many audience members, and there was a collective sigh as the painting was unveiled.
"Lot 207, ladies and gentlemen."
Alex stepped down the aisle so that he could see the painting better. Brian's dark photograph hardly did the painting justice. The colors of the painting were so rich that they seemed edible. They leaped out of the painting and urged the observer to enter the scene, to lose themselves in their own dreams, in the world of the painting. The use of colors, the invitation posed by the work, and the enchanting story created a masterpiece of fancy.
Alex held back to see who would set the starting price. Usually novices bid aggressively at the beginning, but the serious bidders waited until the end. A dozen paddles raised simultaneously as the announcer lauded the delicious uses of color. A handful raised the price. Still more fought for the next level. There was a pause, then the serious bidders began. Alex raised his paddle as the caller was about to announce a sale. Almost immediately, a blonde five rows in front of Alex, and an elderly gentleman in the front raised their paddles. The three parried for a while, until finally only the blonde and Alex remained.
As Alex raised his paddle for the last time, he saw the shoulders of the young woman droop in defeat. She turned to see who had won the painting, and Alex raised his hand to blow her a kiss. His hand dropped to his side as he recognized the crestfallen features of the young woman. He watched as her paper paddle fluttered to the ground and her blue eyes widened in recognition. As the crowd applauded another exciting sale, Alex read his name on the lips of Georgiana Darcy.
Chapter Five
The room seemed to suddenly close in on Georgiana. She placed her hand on the back of her chair for support as her heart leaped into her throat and a blush covered her cheeks. Forced by etiquette to remain in her seat until the round was over, Georgiana reluctantly tore her eyes from Alex's questioning gaze. She bent to retrieve her paddle from its position under the feet of the gentleman next to her, and folded her hands contritely in her lap. It was all she could do to fight the temptation to glance over her shoulder to see if he was still there. She could not focus on the auction while her mind was in such a state. Her neighbor turned to her with a question and received only a blank stare and a polite nod in answer. She pretended to study the auction catalogue. Anything to keep her eyes from wandering over her shoulder. A smile appeared at the corner of her mouth as she silently laughed at herself. She could not understand why she was reacting so strongly to his presence after these two years, but she admitted that she was looking forward to her reunion with him.
Alex had the advantage over Georgiana. He was standing at a back corner of the room only five rows from the young woman. From his vantagepoint, he could see her profile and the pink tint to her cheeks. Alex leaned against a marble statue of a naked cupid with a smile on his handsome face as he watched the young woman. While he studied her profile, Alex decided that Georgiana's gentle, undemanding friendship was exactly the balm he needed to cover the wounds that were bound to surface as he re-entered London society. So, as the bell rang to signal the end of the auction, Alex fought his way to her side. Upon reaching her side Alex grinned and bowed silently over Georgiana's hand with a flourish.
Georgiana studied the young man as he raised her hand to his lips. Alex was still good-looking, with dark brown hair that always seemed to be charmingly tousled and a smile that gleamed white against his tan face. His blue eyes were just as deep as she remembered, but the expression in them had changed. As he smiled at Georgiana, she saw an ironic humor hovering at the corners of his mouth.
"Alex, welcome home!" She could feel the warmth of his lips through her glove, and the butterflies in her stomach stirred for a moment before falling back asleep.
Alex smiled charmingly, "Georgiana, you are even lovelier than I remembered."
Georgiana blushed. "You are looking well, Alex." She grinned, "Then again, I always did have a thing for men in tuxedos." Alex raised an eyebrow at Georgiana's uncharacteristically forward remark.
He turned as his brother appeared at his elbow. Georgiana noticed the resemblance between the two before Alex even introduced them. While Alex wore a cheerful smile, however, Brian's brow was furrowed and his green eyes were dark with inner turmoil. She supposed he would be very handsome if he smiled, not knowing that Brian was usually the sunnier of the two brothers. Alex clasped Brian's elbow and pulled him closer to her. "Georgiana, this is my hardheaded little brother, Brian Waterpool. Brian...Georgiana Darcy."
Brian's innate charm broke through his cloudy demeanor for a moment. His lips curled into a dashing smile that did not hide the distraction in his eyes. He bent over Georgiana's hand and complimented her without really seeing her. Georgiana was not offended when he turned back to his brother. Something was obviously troubling the young man.
"Tell me you didn't get the painting."
Brian's shoulders sagged when Alex responded in affirmative. "I couldn't wait until...so I called her. Elsa's mum told me that she'd run off with a Norwegian skier. To Russia! Not just any skier, mind you...the silver medallist at the last Olympics!" His face was miserable. "I don't care what you do with the painting, just get rid of it!" Brian remembered his manners and bowed to Georgiana in farewell before he turned on his heel and strode from the room.
"He must have had it bad...he barely even noticed you, and he has always preferred gorgeous blondes."
Georgiana merely smiled at the compliment as she watched Brian walk away. "Your poor brother. Shouldn't you follow him?"
Alex smiled, "I would, but he's a bear if anyone bothers him after a breakup. He'll be fine." He shrugged, "Looks like I have a painting for sale. Care to make an offer?"
Georgiana's face lit up. "As a matter of fact, I would love to have the painting. How much did you end up paying for it?"
He winked and took her arm as his car arrived. "Would you join me for a glass of wine? I make it a habit never to make business deals in crowded theaters."
Chapter Six
The evening air was scented with the fragrance of summer flowers and rain. The clouds had dispersed to reveal a gorgeously starry sky. The moon's silvery face reflected off of the still-wet trees, making them seem decked with tiny Christmas lights. Small groups of well-dressed tourists and London natives strolled along the water-shiny pavement as various theater productions and concerts let out. Some were headed back to hotels or flats to deck themselves in appropriate clothing to enjoy the London club scene. Others, like Georgiana and Alex, joined those who decided to take immediate advantage of the unexpectedly pleasant break in the weather.
There is a small pub on a street corner, not far from London's West End, that has red-checkered cloth covered tables lined up underneath two friendly trees. The pub, itself, is noisy and crowded inside. It also serves a terrible house red wine. But if you order a white wine or another beverage and, if the weather permits, find a vacant table outside under the stars, it is as pleasant a place to chat and observe people as any pub in London. This is the very place that Georgiana and Alex found themselves at the end of a long, quietly friendly walk.
Because this was the first clear evening after a week of rain, the tables outside were filled. While Alex ordered a bottle of white wine, a group of four college men gallantly offered to give their table to Georgiana. When Alex returned, he and Georgiana chatted amiably with the Americans for a few moments before the young men ran off to a dance club. Alex laughed and poured the wine.
Georgiana took a sip and set her glass down carefully on the slightly tippy table. "So you are back."
Alex smiled over his wineglass. "I am."
She lowered her eyes to watch a bead of perspiration create a shiny trail on her chilled glass. "So...do you want to tell me about it?"
Alex sighed and looked up at the stars for a moment. He knew that he was going to have to start explaining himself now that he was back. He may as well start with Georgiana, one of the most understanding people he knew.
"I couldn't handle it," He said simply.
Georgiana was quiet as she studied his face. "So I thought."
Alex shrugged and his face became a mask. "I needed to distance myself from my life, so I went to Spain. I am a better man for the experience..." his smile returned, "but this time, I did not have my Georgiana to console me."
Georgiana's smile diminished somewhat. "Yes, I was your counselor, wasn't I."
As Alex tripped through his story of heartache and self-doubt, of blame and sorrow, Georgiana listened patiently. By the time they finished the bottle of wine, Georgiana realized that she had, for the most part, stopped paying attention.
When she met Alex in Paris, he was fighting the same feelings, running from the rejection of his girlfriend, Catherine Bennet. He had not changed that much...he ran to Spain for the same reason he ran to Paris. Georgiana and Alex had left Paris together two years ago to attend the wedding of John Fairchild, a friend of both the Waterpool and Darcy families, to Charlotte Lucas (formerly Lucas-Collins). At the wedding, Kate Bennet announced her engagement to Georgiana's cousin Richard. Alex disappeared from the country scarcely a week afterwards.
In Paris, Georgiana had felt the pangs of a budding crush on Alex as she counseled him through his disappointment. Because she saw him through idyllic eyes, Georgiana had not realized how much Alex, almost selfishly, expected of everyone he knew...especially the women in his life. Now, through the lenses of time, distance, and maturity, Georgiana finally realized Alex's major flaw. He was a good, kind person. He was intelligent, funny, charming, and got along well with everyone. But he also expected everyone to bow to his demands. If they did not do as he wished or expected, Alex was not one to cause a confrontation. Instead, he would pout, stew, and run away. He dwelled on his problems, and was infinitely stubborn in his refusal to move on.
"Alex...before Kate, when was the last time you were denied anything you ever wanted?" She blushed, thinking that she might be overstepping her boundaries.
Alex grinned. "My dad never bought me the elephant I so desperately wanted when I was nine."
Georgiana sighed. "No, Alex. I am serious."
He studied her face. "Never, I guess. I mean...I loved Kate in college and did not have her then, but I always knew that if I waited, my time would come. Everything works out if you have patience. Except this."
Georgiana took a deep breath and spoke hesitantly at first, "So...are you taking this so hard because you really loved her...?" Her words were softly spoken, but there was a heavy, unspoken "or..." tagged on the end of her sentence. Her meaning was as apparent as if she had added, "Or is it because she is the first person who truly denied you? Is it the blow to your heart or the blow to your ego that you cannot get over?"
She saw a cloud threatening on Alex's face. "Can it be enough that she is happy? Can you find something else that gives you joy? Your life is not Catherine Bennet. Your heart is completely your own. You need to find something to make Alex Waterpool happy. You need to move on, to forgive and forget."
Alex blanched. This was not the understanding, coddling Georgiana that he needed. Her apparent censure injured him because she never openly showed her disapproval over anything. He was also indignant that she seemed flippant about him moving on with his life. How dare she make light of his heart?
Georgiana drew back at his sudden frown. She hated that she had offended him...it made her feel ill inside that he was upset with her. But for some reason she could not make herself stop talking. Maybe it was the wine. "You told me in Paris that you were over her. What changed?"
Alex played with his empty wineglass. "Right, I went to Paris to forget her when she fell for your cousin. When I met you, you helped to take my mind off of my problems. But when we went back for John and Charlotte's wedding, she looked so gorgeous. And then she became engaged that night...I couldn't handle it."
"So you ran away again."
Alex was exasperated. "I told you, I loved her with my very soul."
Georgiana knew that she was treading on thin ice. She usually avoided conflict, but something about Alex's behavior regarding Kate did not fit. She voiced her doubts in an accusation that was spoken so softly that Alex had to lean close to hear her at first. "Then why did you try to change her? I understand that you wanted a perfect angel, your Cinderella. Those demands get pretty tough to fill, I should know."
Alex's face became red with indignation and he began to protest. Georgiana stopped him with a wave of her hand. For the first time in her life she found the voice to state her heated feelings. Although she blushed while she spoke, her voice gained strength and confidence as she held Alex's troubled gaze. "It seems to me that Kate was a plaything. She was to be a pretty princess you could dress in your finery, whom you could get to sigh and think you were the king of the world. I served a different function. You needed me to tell you how terrible it was that any woman could pass up a man like you. You needed me to baby your crushed ego. Things I said in Paris. But I can't say those things now, because I don't feel them. To tell you the truth, I think Kate is better off with Richard. He cherishes her just the way she is."
Alex began to rise from his seat, but Georgiana lightly touched his wrist. "I knew you for three months before you disappeared, and that whole time you were trying to forget her. Now, two years later, you are back where you began. This is beyond mourning for a lost love, and seems to me like a pity party. You may be a great guy, but you have a lot to learn about women and about yourself."
Alex's voice was harsh with disappointment, anger and confusion. "Georgiana, what is this? What happened to turn my sweet, innocent little girl into this? What have I done?"
Georgiana's face was red for a different reason now. "That's right, a sweet, innocent little girl. Well, a lot happened to me in these two years, too. Did you even think to ask? Did you even say goodbye when you left?"
Alex smiled, once again sure of himself. "So that's it. You're stewing because I left without saying goodbye. Well, I am truly sorry, Gina. I meant to, but I hurt too much. Please forgive me, sweetheart?"
Georgiana grabbed her purse and newly purchased painting with an exasperated sigh. "Don't trip on your ego on your way out. I am not your "sweetheart." And don't call me Gina again-ever!"
The people at the surrounding tables became silent. Alex put on a sheepish grin and waved to the eyes turned his way as he rose to his feet. He wandered the London streets aimlessly, thinking how much her statements stung. It hurt to realize that there was a grain of truth in her statements. It hurt even more to hear such venomous words from such a sweet girl. Sometime between Paris and now, she had grown up, had gained confidence. He wasn't sure he liked it.
Chapter Seven
The next morning dawned bright and sunny. Georgiana woke up slowly as gentle sunbeams tickled across her face. The billowy white curtains in her bedroom danced with a soft breeze, scented by the late summer flowers in the park outside of her building. She stretched her arms above her head, smiling as her gaze rested on the painting that sat against her desk. She slid from bed and ran a finger along the frame. Georgiana couldn't wait to return it to the gallery at Pemberley, where it belonged. At least one good thing had come of her reunion with Alex. He had sold her the painting for less than it had cost him. That was, of course, before their argument. Georgiana felt a small stab of worry in her stomach as she remembered the words she had used the evening before, but she didn't have time to brood on it. She was due to meet Elizabeth for breakfast.
At a small café, The ladies chatted warmly over steaming cups of fragrant tea as London passed by in front of them. Georgiana and Elizabeth were closer than most sisters-in-law were, and as they ate, Georgiana told Elizabeth everything that had happened the night before.
"I cannot understand what led me to such heated speech. Why, Elizabeth, I practically accused him of being heartless and selfish. I was cruel."
Elizabeth smiled softly and placed a hand over Georgiana's. "Georgiana, there isn't a cruel bone in your body. You are never one to speak recklessly. Whatever you said, I am sure was deserved. But if you feel you are in the wrong, I am sure Alex will hear your explanation. If he knows you at all, he will know that you would never intentionally injure anyone."
Georgiana's eyes were troubled, "How could I possibly approach him when I abused him so abominably to his face?"
Elizabeth's eyes left Georgiana's face for a moment and her smile stiffened. Then she smiled encouragingly at her young companion. "Georgiana," she said softly, "It looks like you will get your chance sooner than you expected."
Alex walked into the restaurant, followed closely by his brother. He wore a casual smile as he ordered a coffee. The two women followed Brian and Alex with their eyes as they found a table. The gentlemen were in the middle of a friendly conversation when Brian stopped mid-sentence. He rose to his feet with a delighted smile as soon as he noticed the ladies. He picked up his coffee and walked over to their table, followed by Alex--who was not smiling.
Georgiana paled...then blushed...then lowered her eyes to her plate...then looked at Elizabeth. She prayed that they would walk by. She glanced at the young man she recognized as Alex's brother. She had met him only once. Surely that smile wasn't for them. Surely he wasn't going to stop at their table.
"Oh...bother!" She muttered under her breath as she pretended to drop her napkin on the floor as an excuse to hide her face. But it didn't work, for Brian quickly raced to retrieve it. As he handed it to her, he smiled enchantingly.
"Why, Miss Darcy...Georgiana, right? How nice to see you again! I am Brian Waterpool...Alex's little brother. I am so glad to have a chance to apologize for my ungentlemanly behavior at our introduction last night..."
Georgiana managed a pained smile, "You had valid reason, Mr. Waterpool. It is nice to see you again." Her voice shook only a little as she slid her eyes to Alex's face. "Hello, Alex."
Brian moved to Elizabeth's side. "And here is the lovely Mrs. Darcy. How is little Jeffery?" As she answered, Elizabeth motioned for Brian and Alex to take a seat.
While Elizabeth and Brian spoke, Georgiana leaned over to Alex. "Alex, I am so sorry. I shouldn't have spoken to you in that manner."
He raised an eyebrow. "It surprised me, Georgiana, but I think that you meant what you said."
She lowered her head. "I did. But please accept my apologies anyway."
He shrugged. "We'll agree to disagree, then." A pause, "Have you hung the painting?"
She gave him a small smile. A truce was better than nothing. "No, I am going to hang it in the gallery at Pemberley."
There was an awkward silence while both of them listened to Elizabeth and Brian's conversation. Finally, Brian rose to his feet. "Well, if you will excuse us, Alex and I have an appointment. It was charming to meet you ladies again."
Alex shook Georgiana's hand. In a low voice, he added, "Just so you know, I was listening last night."
Georgiana watched them leave. So they were still on shaky ground, but at least there had been no accusations. Even though she had offended him deeply, Alex had apparently given her comments some thought. Whatever happened to their relationship from now on, however, Georgiana could not imagine ever regaining the close friendship they had shared in Paris. They had both changed too much for that.
She smiled at Elizabeth as the women walked out into the bright sunshine and the noise of London. It was time to move on with her life.
Chapter Eight
The lazy days of summer were slowly winding down. Already, the trees were beginning to turn colors. Soon, the countryside would be a blaze of colors. For now, however, time stood still, captured in the warm embrace of the gentle late afternoon sun and the caresses of a perfect summer breeze. The sun had reached its Golden Time.
The wide lawn of Claremont was decorated with small tables covered with cream cloths and flowers from the gardens. Servants laden with place settings, chairs and serving bowls streamed from the house. Torches in brass holders were placed along the edges to ward off insects and to provide some warmth against the approaching chill of the evening air. A light canvas awning was spread above the tables as a talisman against rain.
The sunlight continued to gild the landscape as guests began to arrive. Charlotte and John Fairlawn stood on the graceful front stairs of John's ancestral home to greet their friends and family. Both wore smiles of supreme happiness and contentment. It was evident that both had achieved all that they had yearned for in life and love.
Georgiana hugged Charlotte warmly as Elizabeth and William exchanged greetings with John. The Fairlawns had just returned to England after having spent a month in the States. They had gone to visit Charles Bingley, the head of the American branch of the Fairlawn architecture firm. In the past two years, business had boomed, and they were going to move from their current location to a large suite of offices in an exclusive building. They were also in the process of hiring several new employees and restructuring their systems. Charles was a brilliant businessman, and the plans had gone much quicker than expected. Confident that the project was in good hands (and missing kind British voices), Charlotte and John returned home following the American Independence Day.
Georgiana left the small group to watch the rest of the guests arrive. Catherine Bennet and Richard Fitzwilliam came up the long driveway swinging their clasped hands as they walked, wearing smiles of a couple very much in love. Georgiana didn't think she had ever seen her cousin look as happy as he did at this moment. The two had finally set a wedding date, and would be married in a month's time--just as England dressed herself in radiant fall foliage.
Jane and Charles Bingley had returned with the Fairlawn's for a week. Charles was to present at an architecture conference at Oxford before returning to Boston to continue overseeing the expansion of the firm. They were overjoyed to have the opportunity to see their family and friends. Now, as Jane and Elizabeth embraced, Georgiana could see that both women had tears of laughter on their faces.
Charlotte's parents came out of the house wearing self-satisfied smiles. They had been sorely disappointed in Charlotte time after time. First, because she was not a celebrated beauty, and had to settle for William Collins. Then, she had worked for a Ph.D. instead of a baby. Her public divorce from Collins had embarrassed them to no end. But all of that had paid off, as she was now married to a distinguished man from a wealthy old family, who also had a position in Parliament.
Mariah Lucas, Charlotte's sister, climbed out of a little red convertible with four other young people. The laughter of the two young men mingled with feminine giggles. They were in high spirits, as they were busy seizing the last few moments of summer before entering college.
Elizabeth and Catherine's father arrived with an attractive woman with silver hair on his arm. Thomas Bennet had a ready smile now days, and went into public more often since his wife died. Fanny had attracted him in his younger years, but after bearing his children she had become intolerable until she died in an automobile accident. His Melissa was quiet, distinguished and kind. She gave Thomas the respect and love that his marriage to Fanny had lacked.
Georgiana had counted eighteen people by the time Thomas and Melissa greeted her. She took Mr. Bennet's arm and started to walk towards the rest of the party when she heard the sound of another car coming down the long driveway. She turned in time to see Brian and Alex Waterpool descend from a sleek black Jaguar.
Alex wore a relaxed smile as he offered John, his former employer, his hand. His other hand was tucked casually into the pocket of his crisp khakis. Brian had taken Charlotte's arm as the hosts led them towards the clustered tables and the guests that milled around under the last sparks of a flaming sunset.
Thomas Bennet felt Georgiana's hand tighten on his arm and turned to see the direction of her gaze. Georgiana seemed to be looking pointedly at his daughter Kitty. Thomas shrugged and led his two lovely companions down the broad lawn towards the pleasant gathering.
Chapter Nine
The late summer breeze carried the scent of autumn as Alex Waterpool walked towards the small gathering. At first, Alex attributed the slight prickle between his shoulder blades to the slight crisp coolness in the air. As he glanced around at the familiar faces, he realized the sensation was a subconscious warning that he was being watched. And the reason did not long escape him. Catherine Bennet was tucked away in the far corner of the gathering. But, drawn as a moth to a flame, Alex eyes rested on her face as soon as he stepped into the intimate circle of candlelight. His throat went dry as he stared at the muse of his dreams and ambition. Her face was highlighted by the soft torchlight, and was radiant with laughter as her fiancée placed a strawberry between her lips. Oh, how he envied that berry. She had not seen him, tucked away as she was in the farthest corner of the group. But there...her face turned, and the eyes he had dreamt of for two long years met his. First dancing in joy, then they widened suddenly in recognition. A brow arched, then the smile disappeared.
Alex turned his head as Charlotte introduced him to her sister Mariah. He nodded with distraction, barely hearing their voices. The sounds in the room created a cacophony in his head. He smiled politely, but blindly at Mariah. His thoughts were pure chaos. He knew that he was going to have to face Kate sometime, but he had not expected to tonight. His mind cleared enough for him to realize that there was a heavy silence broken only by the snapping of the torch flames and the wind through the trees. A polite cough. All eyes were on him. Alex knew he should do something, but he could not move.
Suddenly a hand slipped into his arm. A voice in his ear hissed, "Come with me." He barely heard his brother explain away his odd behavior as he was led away from the group. Down a torch-lined pathway. His hands made contact with a marble bench as a hand on his shoulder commanded him to sit. He complied without protest, and lowered his head into his hands.
The sound of feet, and something cool was placed on the back of his neck, and a cold drink thrust into his hands.
"Alex." Brian's voice fought its way through his clouded mind.
Then a softer, feminine voice. "Alex, please."
Grass crunched and fabric whispered as Georgiana fell to her knees in front of him. Movement next to him as Brian sat on the bench. A hand on his knee. He looked up. "What is wrong with me?"
Georgiana and Brian exchanged a look.
Alex's eyes darkened and he shook his head. "No." His voice was rough. "Love is not what I felt just now. Love doesn't turn you cold. It doesn't gnaw at your insides." He pounded a fist into his thigh and swore through his teeth as he locked eyes with Georgiana. "You thought that it was my ego that was the driving force in this. Well maybe you were right."
Georgiana gasped softly and rose to her feet. "Alex, I didn't mean...I'm sorry..."
He silenced her. "When I saw her, I didn't feel the warm caress of love, I felt the razor sharp edge of Jealousy. I did not think how lovely she looked, but how happy he looked. I didn't admire her soft cheek, but hated the hand that caressed it. That is not love."
Brian cut in, "What now, Alex?"
Alex laughed ruefully. "I am so messed up...I can't love properly, I can't fix my own problems, I can't even control my own reactions in public anymore. Everyone here tonight must think me a complete idiot."
Brian laughed, trying to lighten the moment. "No, I told everyone that you sprained your wrist and are on heavy pain medication. Of course...that means no drinking tonight, and you must be careful when dancing with the young ladies...but it did the job."
Alex shook his head and laughed bitterly. "And here is Georgiana. I thought you'd had done with me." He briefly touched her had where it rested on his knee. "I can't imagine why you're here now, but..." He interrupted himself, turning to Brian. "If I stay, if I dance, then I'll have to claim Georgiana for the entire night. I can't talk to anyone else tonight."
Brian shook his head, "She's already promised me at least one."
Georgiana smiled briefly at Brian as she addressed his brother. "Will you stay, Alex?"
He rose with a determined set to his jaw. "Yes. Time to get on with my life. I've been in pause for far too long." He sighed, "Well...Let's get this over with."
Chapter Ten
Georgiana and Brian remained at Alex's side as they made their way back across the torch lit lawn to the canvas tent that covered the party. Mariah Lucas and her friends had brought a radio down from the house, and the strains of dance music and laughter carried across the wide lawn to their ears. They came to the tent as Richard tossed Catherine into the air. Alex's face was gloomy.
"I think I need a drink."
Brian laughed, "Sorry, old man. I gave the bartender and our hosts the strictest orders. Remember your "injury." And I have another reason...I don't want you to sit moping in a corner and drink yourself into a belligerent stupor." He held out his arm as Mariah Lucas came towards them. "Here, Alex. Mariah is looking for a partner. Would you do the honors?"
Alex glared at his brother. Born and raised a gentleman, however, he immediately bowed over Mariah's hand. "I would be delighted, Miss Lucas."
Brian bowed to Georgiana. "May I have this dance, Miss Darcy?"
She smiled, "I would love it."
He took her hand and led her to the wide lawn where six other couples were swinging under the stars. "I'm afraid that I'm not too good at swing dancing."
She laughed. "Me neither. We can take it easy, here at the edge of the crowd. Let them try to outdo each other. We'll watch and learn..." Her gaze rested on Alex and Mariah.
"...And get to know each other." Brian laughed and stepped into Georgiana's line of sight. "Forget my big brother for now, Georgiana. He's an adult. I am sure that he will be just fine. He just has a stubborn streak. I guess it runs in the family."
Georgiana smiled as Brian began to spin her around the edge of the group of dancers. "How long were you on the continent, Brian?"
"Three months...Two in France, Germany, Austria, and Italy; and then one whole month in Switzerland."
"Oh, wonderful! I've never really found time to travel like that. I was in Paris for a year...but everyone's been to Paris. Other than that, I've only been to Italy once. I hope to see more of the continent someday soon."
"I am sure you will. I had friends in school who traveled every summer. I took up with them before my junior year, and I got the bug. Now, I try to cross the channel at least once every year."
Georgiana laughed, "Surely you don't spend three months on every trip!"
Brian grinned, "No, this was a celebration in a way. Four of my friends just graduated from law school."
"And what do you do, Mr. Waterpool?"
He grinned again. "I eat, sleep, breathe...and what's more, I go to medical school."
"In other words, during the school year you don't do much but study?"
"So far, I've had little reason to. But I hope to soon find a reason to get out more...I hope so very much, indeed," He said with a big smile as he twirled her under his arm.
Georgiana returned to face him, her cheeks pink from the activity. "And your Elsa..."
"As far as I know, she is skiing in Siberia."
"And you..."
"...Hurt for a little while, but she was a momentary weakness, nothing more. I've had it with pretty women with empty heads. I now vow to see only women who are accomplished, women I can actually talk with."
"And what is your idea of an accomplished woman, sir?" The music stopped, and they stood still to wait for Mariah to change the CD.
Brian laughed. "She is intelligent: the more schooling, the better. She is artistic, musical, well read. She loves to travel, loves the outdoors. She has a good sense of humor, integrity, and honesty. And she chases her dreams." He laughed as they also collided with another couple, "And she must not mind my two left feet!"
Brian's hands found Georgiana's waist as the music started again. Her eyes sparkled teasingly, "Is that all?"
He grinned, teasing back. "Well, no. Perhaps Alex told you of my preference for blondes?" He studied Georgiana closely as he listed her finest features.
She blushed, "Yes, I believe he did." She glanced over his shoulder, "That must also run in the family."
Brian followed her line of sight. Sure enough, Alex was dancing with Mariah's fair-headed friend Josephine, and actually seemed to be enjoying himself. The music stopped suddenly, and the young couples headed back to the protective cover of the tent, and the small tables within.
Brian, Georgiana, and Alex were seated with William and Elizabeth at a small table at the corner. Waiters served them finger foods and fresh fruit. Each person was also given a champagne flute with a ripe strawberry inside.
John rose with his glass in hand. "I would like to thank all of you for joining Charlotte and I at this little end of summer gathering. Most of you were with us three years ago, when we exchanged vows. Today, I ask you to share an occasion just as special with us; but first I have something for my beautiful wife..." Charlotte smiled at her husband as he bent to reach under the table, pulling out a bottle of strawberry soda, which he poured into her champagne flute. There was a slight stir in the crowd as they began to suspect the reason for the announcement. John smiled. He then reached into his pocket and pulled out a small gift wrapped in blue paper and a satin bow. Charlotte kissed John's cheek before she pulled off the ribbon. The box contained a beautifully engraved silver rattle.
John raised his glass, "You see," his voice was thick with emotion, "In five months, we will have another loved one in this group...the heir to Claremont."
With broad smiles and shouted congratulations, the company rose to their feet and raised their glasses to toast the new baby. Georgiana brushed a happy tear from her cheek as she shared a smile with her brother and Elizabeth. She returned her gaze to John's tall frame as he raised a hand for silence.
"But that is not all. I have been told that two of our guests have an announcement, as well. Richard?"
Richard Fitzwilliam kissed a blushing Catherine on the cheek, then rose from his chair. "Thank you John. I just wanted to tell you all that my gorgeous fiancée and I have finally set a wedding date. I hope that all of you will join us on December the seventh...the anniversary of the day I first met and fell in love with Miss Catherine Bennet."
The guests again raised their glasses in salute. Georgiana glanced at Alex. He was not smiling, of course, but his eyes were thoughtful. He noticed her attention and bent to whisper in her ear. His tone was still slightly pained, but did not seem to hold his former bitterness. "Kate does look very happy."
Chapter Eleven
The ominous clouds that had finally broken up the gathering last night continued to dull the sky with the threat of rain as morning broke in London. The first cool droplets teased the earliest commuters of the morning as they poured sleepily out of various Underground stations clutching thermoses of black coffee or tea as divers cling to their lifelines. Soon, gray wool shoulders and black skirts showed an increasingly busy pattern of tiny dark circles that would have driven designers mad with indignation. By the time the Westminster chimes had tolled the hour eleven times, the streets were crowded with bobbing black umbrellas as pedestrians tried to avoid the arrogant splashing of passing cabs.
Alexander Waterpool's eyes narrowed as he peered through the streaky remains of his windshield wipers' valiant effort to fight the moisture that threatened his vision. He flung an arm across the passenger seat as he turned to monitor his success in parallel parking. He grabbed a black umbrella from under the seat and stepped out into the rain.
Alex shook the water from his umbrella as he walked through a glass door into the lobby of the high-class office building. Although the building was quiet and unassuming on the outside, the lobby area was a flurry of activity. Assistants, associates, secretaries and interns rushed around with file folders and stacks of paper for the various organizations that called the building home. Alex strode across the marble floor to an elevator with brass doors. A soft bell announced that he had reached his destination, and Alex entered the reception area of the firm. He noticed that there seemed to be an unusually large amount of people waiting in the room-some calmly reading newspapers, others pacing nervously. The receptionist was busy juggling telephone calls and shuffling paperwork. When Alex spoke his name, she gestured with her elbow for him to proceed. She mouthed the words, "He's expecting you," before turning to a young man with an anxious frown on his face.
Alex walked down a hallway and closed a set of heavy oak doors behind him. In contrast to the cacophony of the reception area, John's office was a quiet refuge. It was decorated with soft carpets, warm wood furniture, and photographs of his wife. Various artifacts from their journeys together were placed around the room. The murmur of a tranquillity fountain that Charlotte had purchased in Japan mingled with the patter of rain on the floor-to-ceiling windows that looked out on the Thames. An old oak desk stood in one corner, at an angle to the window. In another corner, a nicked and scratched drafting table held a place of honor. A relic from John's college years, he had kept it for sentimental reasons despite the contrast between its marred surface and the classy decorations that graced the rest of the room. In the middle of the wall of windows, several large wood and leather chairs were placed in an intimate circle. Alex set his briefcase onto a small table, and sank into one of the chairs to stare out at the swelling river while he waited for John.
John entered silently, closing the door behind him. He set a tray with two mugs, a coffeepot, and fresh scones on the table by Alex. He then took a chair opposite and sat, looking at his young companion, who seemed lost in thought. Alex finally noticed John with a start. He smiled sheepishly and apologized.
John smiled and shook Alex's hand. "It is I who should apologize...I should have warned you about last night."
Alex poured himself a cup of coffee. "Not at all, John. I think it may have been good for me."
"How so?"
Alex shrugged as he added a small amount of sugar, changing the topic. "Why does your reception have the crowd and electricity of audition day in a theater?"
John leaned back in his chair with a sigh as he passed a hand over his forehead. "Twenty four interviews today. Twenty-four resumes, portfolios, references to peruse. Twenty four faces, voices to remember... We're hiring a new architect. We sent Edmond over to Bingley. He's going to be difficult to replace." He sat up and took a mug in his hands. "What brings you to me today, Alex? Since it seems you did not come to chastise me about last night..."
"I've wasted too much time chasing shadows, John. I would like, with your help, to build a life for myself."
"What can I do for you?"
"Hire me. I enjoyed my internship with your firm very much. I believe that I did well...Perhaps Charles Bingley will vouch for me?
John smiled, "He already has, Alex. He said that if you showed a desire, there would be a job waiting for you in Boston. You only need to ask."
Alex took a sip of his coffee, grimaced and poured some cream. John laughed, "I'm sorry...the receptionist is new. I have to teach her how to make decent English coffee."
Alex swirled a spoon through the mire in his mug, took a tentative sip, then settled back into the chair. "It would be a treat to work with Charles again. He is a good man, and excellent mentor. But I have been out of England for too long. I would like to stay here...if you will have me. I have brought all of my materials..." Alex withdrew a bound portfolio and a stack of papers. John took them with a laugh and placed them at the top of a cardboard box full of similar materials.
"Alex, I know your work well. If you wish to work for me, I am glad to have you. Bingley will be furious with me for keeping you from him." He grinned, "But I must confess that I hoped that this was your reason for the meeting today. Now, I can sit through today's schedule with an easier mind. If one of these men stands out, I may still hire him, but Edmond's job is officially yours."
Alex's smile betrayed his gratitude, and surprise, at such an offer. He shook John's hand warmly. "Thank you, John. This means a great deal to me."
John rose to his feet. "Don't think of it. I must confess that it is a selfish offer...I expect great work from you, Waterpool."
Alex shook his hand once again, and sent his best wishes to Charlotte. He walked through the busy lobby with a much lighter step. The new sense of purpose provided by this job would go great lengths towards setting his life in order. Alex did not even bother to open his umbrella as he walked back into the heavy London rain. It felt good on his smiling face.
Chapter Twelve
The restaurant used to be elegant, in a hotel that used to be one of the best in town. It had been many years since its peak, and it had long since turned seedy. The thick carpet showed irreplaceable wear from hundreds of feet. The tables were marred from the abuses of silverware and plates being passed across their surfaces. The tablecloths used to be fine linen, but had yellowed with age. The ceiling showed stains from the smoke of forty years worth of oil lamps. Tinny muzak filtered through the air with a steady monotony. There was further evidence of decline in the small number of patrons, despite its being a Friday evening.
Georgiana sat with her chin in her hand, trying to keep her attention focused on the gentleman seated opposite of her. It took all of her willpower not to glance at her watch. When her companion paused to take a sip of his wine, she stole a glance. Only three minutes had passed since she last looked. And dinner had not even arrived! Sheldon Frankworth waved for the waiter to bring another bottle of wine, blotted his lips with a napkin, and then launched back into his story in the same unchanging monotone. Georgiana stifled her sigh, blinked her eyes, and plastered a smile on her face. She had no idea what he was talking about, but seemed to be successful in nodding and giving vocal affirmatives during the pauses in his speech.
The young waiter finally arrived with the salads, and Georgiana gave him such a brilliant smile of relief for breaking the monotony that the young man did a double take. As she pretended to have great interest in her salad, Georgiana studied her date. Sheldon was a corporate lawyer from an old family that lived near Georgiana's aunt Catherine. Last weekend, Lady Catherine had called Georgiana with the 'tantalizing news' that Mr. Frankworth was moving to London. She asked her niece to show the gentleman a good time. Indeed, when he arrived, he had lost no time in ringing Georgiana. He had arrived at her front door with a bouquet of terribly garish orchids, and wearing a hideous sweater vest over a shirt that Georgiana was sure was more pink than white. He was in his mid-forties, and had greasy, graying, balding hair. But Lady Catherine had asked this favor (with the irritating hint that Georgiana might finally settle down with a stable, wealthy gentleman) in a way that her gracious niece could not refuse.
By the time dinner finally arrived Georgiana was trying to think up a polite excuse to leave. She noticed that her plate had a violet as a garnish, while Sheldon's did not. She glanced at the waiter, who grinned and winked. Mr. Frankworth was such tedious company that Georgiana could not enjoy her Norwegian salmon. Sheldon told her about his visit to a fish factory, effectively erasing what little appetite Georgiana had. She stared glumly at her plate, regretting deeply that she was so determined to please everyone she loved. She began to wish that just once she could do-or not do-something without first worrying what Lady Catherine, William, Elizabeth, Richard, all of her friends and family, would think.
Sheldon noticed that Georgiana was not touching her food. "Are you ill, Gina?"
She forced a bright smile. "No, sir. But will you excuse me for a moment?"
She dropped her napkin on the table and headed down a hallway near the kitchen towards the bathrooms. Georgiana stared at herself in the mirror for a long time, then splashed some water on her face. She was not ready to face Sheldon yet, and she sank into a velvet chair in the hallway, putting her head in her hands. A hand on her shoulder and a soft voice pulled her out of her reverie.
"May I help you, miss?"
It was the handsome waiter. She smiled. "I don't suppose you could make this meal go any faster?"
He grinned and spoke in a lightly teasing tone. "So anxious to get back to the hotel with your lover?"
Her voice was dry, "Is it that obvious?"
The young man set his tray on a small table and took a chair next to her. "He does seem to be a dreadful bore. I take it that this is a first date?"
Georgiana grinned, "First and last. A favor, you could say. One that will not be repeated."
"Not thrilled with tales of fish factories?'
Georgiana shrugged, but her eyes were dancing. The waiter rose to his feet with a laugh. "Tell you what...I am almost off of my shift. Why don't I think of a way to make your dinner go faster and get rid of your date. If you will let me, I'll take you out somewhere a little more interesting than this dreadful restaurant. That way your night won't be a total waste. What do you think?"
Georgiana stared at him in astonishment, then laughed. After all, she had just silently prayed for just such an opportunity. So much for being 'good little Georgiana.' "All right, but don't be too cruel. Where shall I meet you..." She laughed, "I'm sorry, I don't even know your name. I am Georgiana."
He held out his hand. "George. Meet me by the fountain in the lobby."
She placed her hand in his, smiling as he raised it to his lips. "Very well, George, I will see you soon."
Her eyes were dancing with such mirth when she returned to the table that Sheldon grinned. "I am glad that you are having a good time, Gina. Shall I take you to play billiards after this?"
At that moment, George came up to the table with a pitcher of water. He filled Georgiana's water glass with a wink, then turned to Sheldon. He lifted a crystal goblet between two fingers, then proceeded to drop it and a liter of ice water into Sheldon's lap. The gentleman rose in a fury, red faced. George apologized profusely, then disappeared. Georgiana hid a giggle behind her hand as Sheldon yelled for someone to bring the bill. He gruffly set a check into the bill folder (good thing gratuity was included in the bill) and turned to Georgiana.
"I must change. Would you like to come back to my hotel room while I do?"
Georgiana put on a mock serious face. "No, Sheldon. I am still a little ill. If you will call a taxi, I would like to go straight home."
They parted in the hotel lobby. Georgiana went to the desk to call a taxi, not really expecting the waiter to show. As she sat by a weak fountain, she heard footsteps behind her. The waiter-George-had changed into street clothes. He was very good looking: tall with blue-black hair, dark eyes, and pale skin. His smile was bright as he walked up to her. He executed a crisp bow and held out his arm to her. Georgiana rose to her feet, a small knot of nerves jumping in her stomach at her impulsiveness. George laughed and tucked her hand into his arm, gesturing to her waiting taxi.
"My lady, your chariot awaits."
Chapter Thirteen
The next morning the sun shone golden on trees that were just beginning to dress themselves in their bright autumn foliage. The air was warm, but with the friendly nippy scent of approaching fall. The calls of birds discussing their migratory plans mingled with the sometimes welcoming, sometimes tedious noise of London humanity.
Georgiana leaned out of her window and inhaled the fresh scent of the new day. Overjoyed to have nothing pressing to do, for once, she planned to spend the morning at Hyde Park. She tossed a book from her bedside table into a small bag along with a blanket, an apple, and a bottle of water. She put her sunglasses on the top of her head, locked the door to her flat, and set of on foot. Georgiana exited the Underground at Hyde Park Corner, and stepped off of the busy streets into the soothing calm of the beautifully green park.
Georgiana was soon seated on her blanket, resting against the sturdy trunk of a large, shady tree. The sounds of the city were very faint and distant, and the swelling rustle of wind through the trees and the warm chatter of birds and squirrels added to the peacefulness of the park. Georgiana took out her book, Henry James' The Portrait of a Lady, and turned to chapter twelve. Lord Warburton had just found the heroine, Isabel, in the garden. Georgiana liked Warburton very much because he seemed to have a light, kind heart in addition to his many other attributes. Georgiana smiled at James' description of Warburton's voice as the "kindest, tenderest, pleasentest voice that Isabel had ever heard." She could only imagine finding a man who loved her so wholly, purely, and deeply as Warburton seemed to love Isabel. Georgiana was delightedly reading Warburton's proposal when she heard the crunch of a footstep in the leaves behind her. She marked her page, then turned to face a warm pair of blue eyes.
"Georgiana!" Alex Waterpool smiled down at her.
"Hello Alex!" She made room on the blanket, and he took a seat next to her. "How have you been?"
He smiled, "Much better." He picked up her book and studied the cover, turned it over to read the abstract, than returned it to the blanket. "About the party last week..."
Georgiana could not hide her sigh. Alex smiled, "I know, your least favorite subject. No, I just wanted to thank you for coming to my aid. I did have a fairly good time, after all. And I realized how hardheaded I have been about all of this. There's nothing I can do about the situation, right?"
Georgiana looked at the ground uncomfortably, wondering if he expected an answer. But to her relief, he moved on to another subject as his eyes scanned the park. "I am supposed to meet Brian somewhere around her here..."
As the sentence trailed off, Brian jogged up to them, his hair damply tousled. His face beamed when he saw Alex's companion. "Georgiana!" He leaned down with a warm grin to grasp her hand. "It's great to see you again. How is your weekend going?" He collapsed into the grass at her side.
Georgiana smiled. "Well, Friday was great...Elizabeth, William and I grilled chicken. Jeffery was so proud of himself because he put the napkins on the table." She laughed suddenly, "But last night was...strange. I had a terrible...awful blind date with a man old enough to be my father, who was, I am sorry to say, a dreadful bore. Strangely enough, I hit it off better with the waiter than I did with my date. He rescued me, and took me dancing when the dinner was over."
Brian laughed, "Dancing? Where?"
"He took me to some dance club. He seemed to know everyone there. It was pretty strange and I felt a little uncomfortable, but he was nice about it. I did have a good time talking to him."
"What is his name?"
"George."
Brian and Alex exchanged a glance. They had never liked the name 'George,' for very good reason. Alex hid his frown. "What is his last name?"
Georgiana thought back to the night before...
George held her tightly when the first slow song came on. He whispered into her ear, "I don't think you told me your full name, my lady in distress."
Georgiana smiled, "Georgiana Darcy."
George pulled back and looked at her strangely, "What did you say?" He put on a charming smile; "It's a little loud in here..."
"Georgiana Darcy. What is yours?"
He averted his eyes suddenly, "George."
She laughed, "I know. What is your last name?"
He gave her another strange look; "George W...wouldn't you like another beer?" He grabbed her hand and dragged her off of the dance floor.
Georgiana shook her head, "I don't think he ever told me."
"He's probably a con and doesn't want you to know," Alex said with a frown.
Brian grinned, "Right...he probably just got out of jail, looking for his next pretty victim."
Georgiana laughed, "don't tell me you men are jealous!" She smiled, "Sure, he cannot probably be as perfect as either one of you...but he was a gentleman, and at least he asked for my phone number!"
The brothers exchanged a glance. Brian spoke first, "Well...ah...actually I did ask for yours. Alex wouldn't give it to me, though. I think he said something like, 'another one of your blondes.'" He grinned at his brother, then at Georgiana. "But if I promise to use it wisely, Miss Darcy, would you do me the honor of enlightening me?"
Georgiana was a little surprised, as she had been joking. She laughed, "Well, Mr. Waterpool, that depends on how you intend to 'use it wisely.'"
Alex was getting a little tired of the flirting. He was used to hearing it from his brother, but wondered what had turned Georgiana into this confident creature before him. He rose to his feet. "Well, Georgiana, it has been very nice to run into you. Brian and I have a lunch appointment in ten minutes."
His brother broke in, "Yes, a friend from my travels, Miss Julia Simone, expressed a desire to meet my elder brother. I'm introducing them over lunch."
Alex rolled his eyes at the thought of meeting another debutante, but he grinned at his brother, "Don't deny that you only set it up for another chance at her sister Nicole."
Brian laughed, "How could you suspect me of chasing the woman if she is a brunette?"
Georgiana stood and shook Alex's hand. Brian, much to her surprise, gave her a kiss on the cheek. "I am going to find your number somehow, Georgiana. For now, I will leave you to your book..." He grinned charmingly as he read the title, "Not that you need to learn how to be a lady, my dear."
Georgiana blushed with pleasure as the brothers walked away. Two more charming men would be hard to find. And both of them were kind and thoughtful as well. It was too bad that both of their hearts were so inaccessible to her. If she gave it a thought, she might have been in real danger of falling for either one of them. Ah well, she seemed to be developing what promised to be a casual, but charming friendship with them. And there just might be a George in her future. With a smile, Georgiana sank back to her blanket. She entertained a daydream for a moment, then turned back to her book, to read Isabel's response to Lord Warburton.
Chapter Fourteen
Fall finally seemed to have a grip on London by the second week in September. Although the temperatures remained fairly mild-not quite jacket weather-the air held a small bite that promised that winter was not far behind. The earliest trees to begin their fall changes, about ten- percent, were now fully golden. Many of the others showed their awareness of the changing season with golden edging on their leaves and a few orange freckles on their verdant faces. The activity in London was spiced with additional urgency as schoolchildren chased each other down the streets and ground squirrels fought to find the best places to hide their winter stores.
The fall rush did not leave Georgiana's life untouched. The day she met the Waterpools in Hyde Park marked the last day of her easy summer schedule. The following week was particularly busy. She applied to a graduate program in graphic design, began a job at a small art gallery, did a thorough fall cleaning of her apartment, and helped Elizabeth throw a birthday party for Jeffery. The most enjoyable activity, however, was getting to know her new friend, George.
George had called her within a day of their first meeting and told her that he was moving into a new flat. He asked if she would like to help, and she readily agreed. When Georgiana first saw the chaos of George's old flat, she started to regret her offer to help. There were half-filled boxes everywhere, a maze of furniture, and clothes in piles on every available surface. She helped George push the furniture to one side and line up and label the boxes in the bedroom and kitchen.
"Are you sure it is just you moving out? There seems to be enough here for four people!"
George laughed. "No, just me. Frank is getting another roommate."
Georgiana looked around her. Despite the mess, it was a fabulous place...spacious, with large windows and a lot of storage space. "Why are you moving?"
George sighed uncomfortably. "Conflict of personalities." He declined any further comment, and moved away. He began to shove plates into a box, but Georgiana stopped him and showed him how to do it properly. Within several hours, they had created an organized stack of boxes and packages. When they decided to stop for the evening, George took Georgiana down the street to a small pub for dinner. They parted with a plan to meet the movers at nine the next morning.
The next day, they had lined up everything to clear the way for the movers. Two couches, a bed, a desk, the kitchen table and chairs, a large TV, two easy chairs, two chests of drawers, and a bookshelf were loaded into a truck and carried away to the new flat. Once the larger things were gone, George and Georgiana began to load boxes into a van that George had rented from his roommate's brother.
Georgiana looked around the new flat as she carried the first box to the kitchen. It was much smaller than the first, and did not allow as much natural light to enter. It was no improvement on the other, but if George was happy with it, and if it ended the roommate conflict, she supposed that it would do.
"Are you planning to find another roommate?"
George grimaced as he eased a large box onto the floor. "Not until I find one who keeps his nose where it belongs." His expression was closed, so Georgiana left to carry up another box.
After seven trips, they were finished. Georgiana ran a vacuum over the floor of the old flat, insisting that they leave it nice for George's old roommate. Then they headed off to the new apartment to unpack the items that would give the apartment a more welcoming feel. Georgiana laughed as she pulled a very ugly rug from a large box.
"What on earth is this? It looks like a pelt that has been buried in the woods for years!"
George laughed, "It was my father's. When he was having difficulty finding inspiration for a project, he would stretch out on the rug with everything in front of him. He usually fell asleep, but he swore that it helped him to focus." George shrugged, "I keep it around because I need all of the help I can get."
After they were finished unpacking the kitchen and living room, George and Georgiana collapsed onto a rug in the middle of the small living room. George said that he could take care of the rest as he needed things. They turned on the radio, called for Chinese delivery, and opened a bottle of wine.
Through the course of dinner, Georgiana found out that George was working his way through law school. He held two jobs, because he had been unfairly disqualified for a scholarship. Georgiana admired his perseverance and courage. He was intelligent, ambitious, hard working, and charming. She was sure that he would go far.
Georgiana popped a miniature spring roll into her mouth, then licked the sauce from her fingers. She took a sip of her wine and leaned back against the couch. "I couldn't eat another bite!"
George devoured the last egg roll, then poured Georgiana another glass of wine. "It was good, though."
Georgiana laughed and lifted a napkin to George's lips. "And you're saving some for later...it was delicious." George captured her hand with a smile and slid the napkin from her grasp. He leaned over and brushed his lips across hers.
"So are you."
Georgiana sat back and brought her hand to her lips. George smiled, "A little too sudden?"
Georgiana was a little flustered. "Yes...well...I don't even know your last name."
George smiled, "A problem easily remedied. I am George..." He paused for a moment. "George Wick at your service, my lady." He brought her hand to his lips with a charming smile. "And I am very delighted to have made your acquaintance." He rose and walked to the window. "Infernal London rain. Sometimes I wonder why I don't just move to Spain."
Georgiana laughed languidly from her position on the floor, too full to move. "A friend of mine just returned from Spain. Alex Waterpool."
George's surprised face reflected only in the glass, blocked from Georgiana's view. He recovered quickly and returned to Georgiana's side. Her eyes smiled at him sleepily, and George slipped an arm around her shoulders. "Too much exercise today, sweet?"
"That...and the wine."
George smiled and brushed a blonde lock from her cheek. He rose to his feet, pulling Georgiana with him, and stood with his arms wrapped around her. "I will bring you back to your apartment, then. You have been my little pack mule today, and I am sorry that I did not have more people to help me. Thank you for coming to my aid. I owe you."
Georgiana felt warm and happy as he held her. It had been a long time since she had felt a man's arms around her. It was nice to feel pretty and appreciated by an attractive young man. So when George lifted her chin and lowered his lips to hers, pausing mere inches away with a question in his eyes, Georgiana smiled in encouragement. After a long embrace, they pulled apart reluctantly. George rested his chin on the top of her head. "I think I need to get you home."
While Georgiana found her purse and coat, George leaned against the doorframe with his hands thrust into his pockets. "I need her to trust me."
Chapter Fifteen Posted on Wednesday, 15 September 1999
Brian Waterpool ducked out of the rain into a small street café. He was wet through, and wanted nothing more than to prop his feet in front of the fire in the library at the Waterpool home. With no time to run home, he had to make do with a hot cup of coffee. He took a table by the window and sat with his hands circling his mug, drawing in its warmth. His eyes roamed the damp streets instead of perusing the document in front of him. He was in no mood for another meeting with his immunology professor. Brian was serving as a research assistant for the man, but he had little respect for him: a man who belittled every other professor in the University as an inferior creature. Needless to say, his students were nothing more than bugs to be crushed. Brian often wondered why the man bothered to teach at all. He moved his gaze from the rain-streaked window as the tinkle of a bell announced another customer.
The cloud on Brian's face disappeared the moment a golden blonde head appeared around the door. Suddenly, his day seemed much brighter. Georgiana Darcy shrugged her black coat from her shoulders and draped it over her arm as she ordered a cup of tea. She started towards a back table, but stopped as she noticed Brian. He rose to his feet to pull out the empty chair for her. Georgiana hung her coat on the back of the chair and sat down with a smile as she greeted him. She stuck out a leg and began to brush water from her black stockings and knee-length wool skirt. "You would think that I would get used to this weather..."
Brian watched her with an amused grin. "Hello, Georgiana."
She blushed slightly and straightened her skirt as she sat up. "I'm sorry Brian."
"Don't apologize." He raised her hand to his lips with a grin, then took his own chair. "You look lovely, as always."
Georgiana laughed as she ran a hand through her damp blonde hair. "You are too kind, Brian."
Brian laughed as he leaned back in his seat. "And you, Georgiana, are too modest." He swirled a spoon through his coffee. "What have you been up to lately? Have you seen any more of that George fellow?"
Georgiana removed the tea bag from her cup and added sugar and milk. "Yes, I spent three days last week helping him move into a new flat."
"I suppose he has told you a little more about himself? His full name, maybe?"
"Yes. His last name is Wick." She was focused on her teacup, rather than Brian's face, and missed the look of alarm that crossed his handsome features.
He struggled to keep his voice calm. "Wick...as in Wickham?"
She smiled. "Wick, as in Wick. Nothing more."
Brian's smile was tense. "Well, let us hope so. Just the same, be careful, Georgiana. I rarely trust men named George...even less those followed by a 'W'."
Georgiana laughed, "Why on earth not?"
Brian sighed, "It's a long, complicated, and not particularly tasteful story, Georgiana. To tell you the truth, your brother was involved, as well. You might ask him some day."
Georgiana took a sip of her tea. "You know, William said that our families once had a connection. I never found the opportunity to ask what he meant."
Brian smiled. "Our parents moved in the same circles. My mother and yours attended the same school. Our fathers became friends through their devotion to their wives. We had a home not too far from your Pemberley. When you were just a baby, Alex was four, and I was two, we visited your home with our parents. Fairmont was razed to the ground following a tremendous fire when I was five. We moved to a family home in France."
"I thought Catherine and Alex knew each other as children. Kitty never lived in France..."
"Mother believed strongly in the superiority of the English school system. She sent us back, while they remained in France. During holidays, and often in the summer, our parents came back and we would stay with our uncle at our mother's ancestral home near the Bennets. As we entered our teens, I ended up at Eton, but Alex elected to enter a coeducational school. That is how he met, and fell for, Miss Catherine Bennet." He grinned, "Do you have any further questions, Miss Darcy?"
She smiled, "And how does this Wickham fit into the story?"
Brian frowned. "I would much rather enjoy your pretty smile than talk about that creature."
"Very well, Brian. Would you and your brother do me the honor of joining Elizabeth, William, and I for dinner next week? I plan to introduce George to them, and it might be fun to rekindle old acquaintances at the same time." She laughed, "You may bring dates, of course."
Brian grinned charmingly, "I would love to. It is truly a shame that you are already spoken for." He paused, "Are you serious about this George Wick?"
Georgiana laughed, "How serious can it be after only a week an a half. But I do enjoy his company, and he seems to be a good man. We will see what becomes of it." She rose to her feet.
Brian also stood, offering his arm to Georgiana. "And if he does not work out, you have an admirer waiting in the wings. Now, can I take you somewhere?"
"Thank you, no. I am only headed a few buildings down this street."
"Very well, goodbye Georgiana. I am so glad that we ran into each other." He kissed her cheek.
"I am too." She started to walk away, but Brian stopped her. His eyes were laughing as he held out a pen and a napkin.
"I almost forgot, may I finally have your telephone number?"
She laughed and wrote on the napkin. "And may I have yours as well? I will call you about dinner next week." He complied, and they parted with a friendly handshake. Brian held the door for her, and stood watching as she walked out into the rain.
"Charming girl," he mused to himself with a bemused smile on his face, before he donned his coat and walked out into the storm without even noticing the rain on his face.