Chapter One

You gain strength, experience and confidence by every experience where you really stop to look fear in the face... You must do the thing you cannot do. —Eleanor Roosevelt

William drove Highway 95 on his ritual commute to work. His travels each day seemed to pass quickly. The hour shuttle each morning he didn't find bothersome. Today, he noticed, was an exceptionally bright and clear morning. Days like this he found it difficult to concentrate and keep focused on the drive. Escape from reality he welcomed. His thoughts drifted to her and he could no longer hear the thundering noise from the engine of his impressive F250.

Their life together... it was such a blessing, he recalled when they had first met. He was on a camp out in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. She worked at this wondrous place. Welcoming campers and warning them of the dangers of the wild animals in the park as she traveled from site to site. When she came upon William's, he was immediately smitten. Soon he found them spending all their time together. That week long stay was most memorable. Following the trip, they courted and in a few short months they were husband and wife. Oh how he loved her. They were so closely matched. She was what made him whole. The day they exchanged marriage vows was the happiest day of his life.

William remembered finding the small rental company for sale in Weiser. He presented this business opportunity to her convinced that it would help build their dreams. Together they were incredible and could accomplish anything. They opened the doors of Wilcox Rentals just a few weeks after purchase. Their company rented out a variety of equipment; yard and garden, automotive, home heath, and concession implements. William worked the counter, serviced the equipment, and took inventory at the store. She placed all the orders, handled billing, and balanced books. They were the perfect team. Their relationship was truly a partnership.

They lived in the rural nearby town of New Meadows. It required some travel to their business each morning, but they were madly in love and enjoyed every moment they had together. They relished the country setting where their little nest egg sat. It was beautiful there. Some relate to the phrase of 'God's' country when describing it. Although you would see an abundance of logging trucks traveling the State Route in the area, much of the land there was still untouched. The fir and alder were so thick it sheltered most of the wildlife in the area. On their property the deer, rabbit, and hawks roamed free. They found this house while they were courting. She had her heart set on it from first sight. The fifties era two storey farm house was a little run down. What so appealed to William was the ten acres of land upon which it sat. His passion was horses and with that amount of land he could certainly own and board his desires.

When they moved into their house, she worked so diligently on the restoration. She was happy and without complaint and that is what he loved about her. She had a strong will and determination to a fault and that's exactly what drew him to her. He trusted her with all their finances, personal and professional. William had some money when they met, an inheritance. He paid for their home and invested in their business. From there, she handled the rest. Of course she never felt it was a task. He was a provider. William would short change himself when it came to extending credit for his own personal strengths. When William wanted to prepare their land for horses, he arranged this in such a manner that it paid for itself. She was so impressed. He sold five acres of timber he had cleared from their land to the logging company. This alone paid for the land to be prepared and for the horse and their shelter. In very little time this house had become their home. It was presentable, meaningful, and a place of harmony.

"Are we there yet, are we there?" questioned the boy.

William snapped quickly from his thoughts to the back seat of his truck. He looked into those dark eyes and thought again of her. Now he looked away from the boy to compose himself before facing the child again. Once he felt in control, he turned back to the child.

His expressions and voice softened replying, "Soon Will, we'll be there soon."

William could see the excitement in the boy's face. It amazed him how this child could be so dedicated and jubilant day after day. Little Will knew this morning journey too well. He loved to spend a day with Jane and he knew that was exactly where they were going.

Jane and Charlie heard the boys coming down 'their' street each morning. William's truck could be heard from a block away in their quiet neighborhood. Jane hollered for Charlie, "Don't forget your guys' lunch." Charlie marched over to the kitchen and picked up the lunch cooler. Soon they were both at the front door. Charlie embraced Jane and lightly kissed her lips. His hands caressed her breasts as his lips lowered and grazed her neck. Swiftly the front door swung open and there were the Darcys. Jane rapidly tidied and straightened her blouse, blushing as Will was pleading for her attention instantly with outstretched arms. William kissed the boy atop of his head and handed him to Jane with a regard of gratitude. Charlie grabbed his work stuff and handed the cooler to William. On his way out the door, he gave Jane a quick peck on the cheek. The endearing term 'I love you' was exchanged between husband and wife.

Once Charlie and William were gone, Jane turned her attention to Will. She was more excited for tomorrow than the boy.

"How old will you be tomorrow, birthday boy?" She quizzed him.

Will held up one finger with a broad grin on his face. "ONE!" He bellowed.

Jane corrected him. "You will be two, Will."

As Jane was speaking, she also manipulated the boy's fingers so that two were now up.

"TWO!" shouted Will.

"Yes, that's right. Tomorrow you will be two," she affirmed.

Jane loved Will as if he were her own. She watched Will each day while Charlie and William were at work. This proved to be a suitable arrangement for them all. She could hardly believe that two years had nearly passed. She gazed back at the child who was now focused on his favorite toy, an abacus.

Chapter Two

As William guided his truck through town, he came upon a large white building. It was an old remodeled gas and service station. Although the building stood tall, it was only one storey. Looking at it you could faintly see the patched areas that had once served as the service doors to the bay. Less than 10 yards from the front entrance stood the original gas pump still in good working order. The top of the building was domed to encourage run off of showers and sleet that Idaho was so accustomed to receiving. William thought it was certainly not an effective system, for he had repaired that roof more times than he cared to recall. Three sides could be seen from the main street that ran through town, highway 95. They were painted with labels announcing Wilcox Rentals.

William and Charlie were prepared for a very busy day. Every August, Payettes' Annual Fair is a profitable time for Wilcox rentals. Today they were delivering a variety of rental paraphernalia to various venders in Payette. William was grateful Charlie was there to help. He had joined as a partner in the company almost two years ago. William couldn't believe that much time had passed. Charlie came into the company at a time that life became too overwhelming.

They opened the store and checked their itinerary for the day. Events like this fair were both exciting and overpowering. Charlie went across the parking lot and started up the transport vans. As they were warming up, he hitched the trailers onto each van. Pulling the vans over one at a time to the gas pump to fuel, he suddenly witnessed a white streak fly through the parking lot. "Georgie and her lead foot," he silently muttered while shaking his head in disapproval. She slid out of her new Honda CRV. With that she was instantly aware of how hot today was, and how well the air conditioning worked in rig. She pranced towards the front door while noticing Bingley glaring at her. As she passed Charlie she couldn't resist a wink his way. She always received aberrant pleasure in annoying her brothers' best friend.

Georgie was scolded the minute she stepped foot in the door. William had seen the disgraceful display outside.

"I'm puzzled why it is that you find it so amusing to make a fool of yourself!"

Rolling her eyes at her brother's comment she replied, "Not before my coffee William."

She passed by him and directed herself straight for the pot.

Not wanting this debate to advance to a full blown argument, William changed the subject. "We'll be gone most of the day. You know what to do while we're gone. If we don't make it back before five o'clock, go ahead and close up. I'll have my cell phone on me."

Georgie turned toward William and flipped up her sunglasses to the top of her head. With a trifle smirk she replied, "Yeah I know the drill, now go get to work."

As she watched her brother head out to the loading garage she pitied him. He had really he lost everything over these last few years... personality, humor, and temper, she thought. She wondered if he would ever enjoy life again.

William and Charlie looked over the invoices. They confirmed the items they were delivering and started loading equipment for delivery.

• 200 8' tables

• 200 6' tables

• 2000 brown chairs

• 30 canopies 10 x 10

• 20 canopies 20 x 20

• 50 generators

• 4 cotton candy machines

• 4 popcorn makers

• 6 snow cone machines

• 5 bubble blowers

• 2 light beams

• 3 inflatable fun houses

It took the men about two hours to load their first trip into the vans. Payette was about a twenty minute drive from Weiser.

Enjoying the morning's expedition, Charlie took time to admire the surroundings. A train ran parallel with him just ten yards or so to the right. He gazed at all the surrounding farm land; alfalfa, hay, and corn seemed to amalgam in the distance. Charlie was thinking how perfect the farming land was. It seemed flawless as far as the eye could see. The climate had an ideal temperament for the crop this year too. As Charlie observed his surroundings, he found himself in awe of the miracles of 'mother nature'. Soon the sinuous highway was interrupted and Charlie slowed down as he came upon a stop sign. He turned left towards Payette. There on the left of the highway was an astounding site; colossal herds of Black Angus. Adjacent to the road t-posts and wire fencing extended for what Charlie would guess was one hundred acres. He remembered being told this was one of our county's largest Black Angus ranches. It was a breath taking view.

As the men found their way into Payette, they went directly to the fairgrounds. They had been forewarned of the parade to ensue shortly. This was an annual tradition to welcome the celebrations for the county fair. The procession stretched more than two and a half miles through town and many roads were blocked for this event to allow a multitude of folk to come enjoy the display. William followed Charlie behind the midway to the service entrance. As they got out of the vans, they exchanged few words. They both understood that today they had their work cut out for them. This is only one of two trips they are to make. They both started to diligently unload the equipment.



As Jane gazed at the adorable sleeping boy, she couldn't help but remember his first birthday last year. Will had had a touch of influenza, which led to wheezing. Soon the wheezing had turned to struggled breaths. Before Jane heard back from his Primary Care Physician about his cold, Will had seized up. His lips turned to pale blue. The struggling for air changed to very infrequent gasps. He was not getting enough oxygen and this much was evident with a look. Jane ran him to her car, fumbled to put him in the car seat, and raced to the hospital. As she entered the waiting area of the emergency room she had realized it was completely packed. Her panic had heightened. She was petrified. Immediately a nurse came from the check-in area, she inquired the age of the boy was while visually assessing him. Before Jane could respond that Will was one, the nurse had grabbed Will and had hurried behind doors marked Do Not Enter.

Jane had struggled to stay with Will, however she was not allowed past the doors. Instead, she recalled being directed to patient services. Jane went to the counter and provided the hospital with the medical insurance information needed. She thought to pull her cell phone from her purse and realized that in the panic she had forgotten it at home. She had asked for a phone, she had to call William. The lady at the service desk wouldn't allow it. She tried to keep Jane focused on providing medical information about Will.

"Child's name?"

"William Darcy, Jr., he goes by Will," Jane had answered impatiently.

"Father's name?"

Jane wasn't sure if this had been a rhetorical question or not. She recalls looking at the lady sitting across from her with a dumbfounded expression.

The lady, not looking up from her computer, had repeated, "Father's name?"

"WILLIAM DARCY, SR." Jane had answered loudly. She was losing her temper.

"Your name ma'am?"

"I'm Jane Bingley, however I'm not the child's mother." She had stated with edginess that showed her haste.

"You aren't the mother?"

"No I'm not. And if I can use the phone I'll call the father and let him know to come here."

"You are not the boy's parent or legal guardian?" asked the lady somewhat puzzled at the time.

"I'm not, I sit for this child. I'm his godmother. And if you don't mind, I'd like to be with him NOW!"

The next comment from the service lady sent Jane into fury as she remembers it. "Ma'am, only parents or guardians are allowed with a patient. You will need to take a seat in the waiting room."

With instincts beyond control, Jane had forcefully seized the phone in the lady's cubicle. "DIAL MR. DARCY'S WORK NUMBER NOW!!!"

The lady had scanned the waiting room for hospital security, and not finding any to help her control Jane, she then dialed William's number.

Thinking back it seemed as though an hour passed while Jane waited impatiently in the lobby for William to arrive. Ten minutes after Jane's call, William had come barreling into the emergency room. Quickly they were escorted back to a room where they were not prepared for what they saw. Will was lying in a steel crib; the monstrous apparatus was completely enclosed, it resembled a jail cell. Will was sitting inside of it with only a diaper on. Trying to keep his composure, William focused on Will. He had a device taped around his finger on his left hand that illuminated a red light. He had a mask upon his face with hoses and tubes coming from it. Every time Will exhaled, a puff that resembled a 'cloud' came out of one of the tubes. William's eyes were wild. The nurse sitting in the corner of the room reading a magazine had hardly noticed that William and Jane had entered.

The ER doctor had approached just as William demanded to see him. He sat William and Jane down and tried to explain their findings. He assured them that Will would be fine. Jane recalls this conversation so vividly, for it was when Will was diagnosed with Bronchial Asthma.

"Our understanding is that Will developed an upper respiratory infection that has now dropped into his lungs. This caused significant wheezing and shortness of breath."

"Yes, he is being treated by our PCP for that."

"It is noted here that the boy had an amniotic fluid aspiration at birth. And that this is the first episode of asthmatic bronchitis. Is this correct?"

"Yes, this the first time it has progressed to an emergency room visit. And yes," William paused and had looked to the floor, "there were many complications when Will was delivered."

"Right now we have this instrument measuring Will's saturated oxygen." He pointed to the apparatus upon Will's finger. "And the face mask is a nebulizer. It is distributing medicine to open his airways."

William had noticed Will's continued labored breaths. Will's tummy was in a concave position. With the next exhale his stomach had swelled to a bloated state. Jane had turned away with tears in her eyes.

"What is wrong?" William had asked.

"This is common among asthmatic patients. It is retractive breathing. It will subside in a few minutes."

"Can we hold him?"

"Yes, as soon as the breathing treatment is complete. Then we can remove the face mask."

Jane and William looked at each other; both had been scared to death. The doctor assured them again that Will would soon be out of distress. They had decided to go to the waiting area for a moment, Charlie and Georgie were waiting there to hear word about Will.

When Jane and William returned to his son, they were somewhat relieved to see the mask off of his face. He had sat in the rocking chair with Will in his arms. Gliding back and forth he did his best to comfort his son. Then they had witnessed little Will's limbs as they had started to shake. Jane had shouted for the nurse and doctor.

Immediately the doctor had appeared "What?"

William was petrified by the lethargic and quivering state of the child in his arms. He looked up to the doctor and back down to his son. He had opened his mouth to speak but nothing had come out...

It was evident to the doctor the cause of the fathers concern; paroxysm. "This is an expected effect of the Albuterol." The doctor had sat down next to William. "We are going to discharge Will. He will need to continue the antibiotics your PCP prescribed. We also will have him on Pediapred and Albuteral. The Pediapred you will need to continue at home. It is important that you realise this may develop into a pattern of infantile asthma with each respiratory infection. There are Albuteral inhalers with an Espirease and mask but my experience has been it is more difficult to get kids to take the inhaler than to use oral medications. If he has another episode, we may want to cautiously try him on inhaled cortisone at home. Otherwise, we will just continue to follow him."

The doctor had informed William and Jane not to hesitate bringing Will back if he were to experience any further complications. He had reminded them that orders would be written on the discharge sheet that the nurse would be bringing to them.

Since then, every year from fall to spring, Will becomes susceptible to numerous illnesses. Any illness can lead to respiratory distress for him. Because of his diagnosis of Bronchial Asthma last fall, Will's given Flovent daily by inhaler. He has an Albuteral inhaler as well as a nebulizer to use at home as needed. If he is plagued with bronchial irritation, this breathing regime is often supplemented with a dose of prednisone. All of this just to help this little angel breathe Jane thought. She made a mental note to reorder all Will's meds after his birthday party. Fall was on the way.



As the four of them sat around the dinner table, they enjoyed both the food Jane had prepared and each others company. It had been a physically exhausting day on both Charlie and William. They sat back and enjoyed a bottle of wine and the effects of it after a long hard day. Although the adults enjoyed pleasant conversation at dinner, it was clear it was all inconsequential. None of them wanted to discuss what memories tomorrow brought. A quiet time fell upon the table.

I wish my friend wasn't in this pain. He sure has changed. I don't much like William that is parochial and reticent. I wish I knew what to do to help him move on. I want my old friend back.

Charlie and I would do anything for the Darcys. William needs more in his life. Perhaps once we make it through tomorrow, he can finally start putting things behind him.

At this lull in conversation, William stood from the table. He thanked Jane for dinner and announced his departure. Jane went into the other room and retrieved Will's diaper bag. She quickly changed his diaper before the ride home. They all knew that the drive home would put Will to sleep for the night. William buckled the boy into his car seat; he turned back to the house and waved at the Bingleys. They were standing on the porch to see them off.

"We'll see you tomorrow. Let me know if you change your mind and want us to bring something when we come over."

William nodded and slid into his truck. Within minutes he was turning onto that lonely highway home.

Although the radio had been playing William had hardly noticed. He was about half of the way home when he was suddenly overcome with a terribly deep sorrow. As he listened to the end of this song, he stiffened. His breathing felt restricted and his insides felt as though they had solidified.

... there's gonna be a little one and she... says it's time to go... Dr. says the baby's fine, but you'll have to leave, 'cause his mama's fading fast, and Johnny hit his knees and there he prayed... take the very breath you gave me, take the heart from my chest, I'll gladly take her place if you let me, make this my last request... take me out of this world, but please... don't take the girl. —sung by Tim McGraw

As William heard the last words of this song, he broke. He wasn't sure if it was the wine, the long hard day, or the thought of tomorrow. He pulled his truck to the shoulder of the highway and he wept.

Chapter Three

Life isn't a matter of milestones, but of moments. —Rose Kennedy

William was flooded with memories of that day, the day they had checked into the hospital. They were so very excited. She was a petite person and the baby was discovered in a breech position. Those concerns had led the OB/GYN to schedule a caesarean section. They went to the hospital and pre-registered and at that time the hospital staff had made them watch a video regarding the procedures of the operation. It discussed and informed them of the options of anesthetic; spinal block or general. He remembers the video. It pointed out that things may go wrong. An example given in the video was that if the medical staff had to enter a breathing tube into the airway for general anesthetic it was possible for the patient's front teeth to be chipped and broken. He recalled how mortified she had been at this potential of damage. William wished... if only...

The morning they had checked in at 6:00 am. Shear excitement and anticipation drove them to that point. She was placed in a birthing room and was given a hospital gown to change into. Soon she had settled into bed. Because the c-section was considered a major operation, she hadn't been allowed to eat or drink since the night before. When the nursing staff had entered the room to prepare her for the operation, they seemed to be handling a lot of equipment. They said she needed an IV, catheter, and had to be 'prepped'. Then the anesthesiologist would be coming in to administer a spinal block. Those were foreign words to William. He had asked her if he could come back when they were done. She agreed and William headed to the waiting area. He knew they had a support team waiting.

Georgie, Charlie and Jane had queried William as to when they would be seeing the new bundle. It was half past nine and they were expecting something by then. William explained to them that they were prepping her for surgery.

"I can't wait to meet my niece or nephew!" Georgie had squealed in delight.

William recalls smirking at Georgie's adolescent display of emotions. Then he had turned his attention to the Bingleys. He now remembers that special moment with sadness. "We have given this a lot of thought during the pregnancy, and we would like to ask you both to be our child's godparents."

Charlie and Jane were speechless.

Hugs and premature congratulations had been shared among them. William thought of the cigars in his shirt pocket and decided to hold onto them a little longer. He had thought he would be back here soon enough passing them out.

A nurse had come to the waiting room and requested William to change into scrubs just prior to the operation and delivery. Until then, he hadn't realized how nervous he had been.

Am I going to make a good father? I am going to have a family to take care of now. Will I be able to provide them with everything they need? I can't believe that in a few minutes I will be holding my child. I just hope it's healthy... ten fingers and ten toes...

The nurse had interrupted William's thoughts as she had returned to escort him back to his wife's room. They would have a few minutes with one another before she was taken to the OR.

He recalls the sight of his beautiful wife as he opened the door. He had felt very blessed and considered himself a very rich man indeed. William then sat next to his wife. He remembers the silliness of that conversation. It was his last with her...

"How are you holding up?"

"I am," she had said as if encouraging herself.

William knew she was fatigued. In the last days she had gone past her due date and was physically exhausted. Her feet had started swelling, her blood pressure had elevated, and she had found it increasingly difficult to get to sleep. He had tried to distract her from the waiting that day. He had questioned her about the names for the baby.

"What names are we thinking about for this baby again?"

"You know good and well Mr. Darcy the names we have picked for our child," she had played along.

"Hmmm?"

"If you changed your mind about a son carrying your name sir, then let me know now," she had toyed.

William had quickly retorted, "There would be no other suitable name for my son."

"And a daughter?"

"My darling, I believe we chose Jacqueline Elise, am I correct?" Of course, this was rhetorical; for William knew good and well that this was the name they had picked for a daughter.

They were so caught up in their conversation at the time that they didn't hear the nurse step into the room. "It's time."

As they had heard the nurse say those magic words, they had looked at each other for a few moments so affectionately. They were expecting in moments... William had kissed her hand and said I love you.

The nurse had asked William to remain in the room for a few minutes and then she would take him to the OR. That would allow them to get her transferred to the OR table.

When William entered the OR, it was quite a sight. They had his wife lying down on her back. Each arm was strapped down on long horizontal boards. One arm had an IV and the other a blood pressure monitor. There was primarily nursing staff filling the room at that point. The man that stood directly behind his wife had smiled and introduced himself to William as the anesthesiologist. He had proceeded to briefly explain to them both that a spinal block is administered in four parts. It would be injected through the long tube inserted between her vertebrae, similar to what was done with an IV. The anesthesiologist had looked down at her with a smile and assured her that soon she would be feeling much better.

The nurse had explained to William on their walk to this room that the entire procedure takes about an hour. Their baby would be born within the first 15 minutes of the operation. Hospital policy had welcomed the fathers until the birth and then they were to leave the room to let the doctors finish the procedure. That sounded satisfying enough to William.

As the anesthesiologist had administered a portion of the drug, William's wife turned very pale. Panicked, William had questioned her.

"What's wrong, honey?" He had wanted to comfort her and hold her hand but that wasn't an option.

She had whispered something...

William was puzzled; he couldn't hear what she had said. He had leaned down closer to her...

Her eyes had filled with tears and she whispered again... "Something is not right."

William had voiced what she had said loudly for all in the room to hear. Before he had finished, a loud beeping noise had flooded out his words. The medical team quickly spoke amongst one another.

"BP is dropping!"

"Heart rate is down!"

William had heard a loud bang. He had turned to see what it was... The OB/GYN came through the doors with force. Without addressing William, he had looked belligerently at the medical team. As he took a scalpel off the tray, he was interrupted by shouting. The anesthesiologist had advised him, "You can't do that she has had only two parts of the block and she isn't stable!" The doctor hadn't paused more than a moment and returned to work. The mother's life was in jeopardy but he knew he could save the life of the child. There was another loud bang. The anesthesiologist had kicked his stool away from him and it had crashed into the wall behind. This all happened so fast.

Anna... His poor Anna. He could only imagine what was going through her mind then. There she lay, quite aware of her surroundings and what was happening. There she lay, tears flowing from her eyes. There she lay, whispering to William... "I love you. Take care of our baby."

Bereavement was something unfamiliar to William. With it had to come acceptance and he had simply refused. But tonight, as he sat on the highway recalling the most horrible day in his life, healing started. Tomorrow would be Will's second birthday. From now on he would try harder to think of it as a day worth celebrating. He wiped away his tears and he drove home.

Chapter Four

William woke the next morning to the sound of the phone ringing. He sat up in bed and gazed to the alarm clock, it read 9:32. Unable to believe that he slept so late, he turned his head around to the wall clock, only to see it read the same time. Getting out of bed, he walked over to the dresser and picked up the phone.

"Hello."

"Hi William, it's Jane. I was calling just to make sure you were ready. Do you need anything for the party?"

"I think I have it covered," William answered with a smirk. He wasn't sure how he'd manage these days without her looking after him.

"If you're sure. Hey, just after you left last night, I got a call from Lizzy. She and a friend are coming over for the weekend. Would you mind terribly if I bring them along with us today?" She knew William was often intolerant to meeting new people.

Cringing his teeth, he let out a groan...

"Great. We'll see you this afternoon," Jane replied, disregarding William's modest objection.

As he passed through the house on his way to little Will's room, he noticed how nice his home looked. He was pleased at the job Julia had done this week. For a couple of years now, William has had a cleaning lady come in once a week and do some regular household chores. She knew they were expecting guests and clearly gave it a little extra.



The party was underway and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. It was another beautiful hot August day, which led the party to the outdoors. As William surveyed the guests, he couldn't help but laugh at Will. The child was running about the yard chasing his new puppy. Having been introduced to Lizzy's friend, Charlotte, he noticed that she was looking after little Will. William's cousin was sitting on the porch conversing with Charlie. In the distance, over by the horse stalls stood Anna's mother. He headed over that way to speak with her.

As William approached Catherine, he welcomed her. "Will and I are delighted that you came. We have certainly missed you."

"I've missed you both, too." She replied most sincerely. "Next year he should be old enough to come and visit me in the summer. I'm looking forward to that."

"Yes, I'm certain he'll enjoy that immensely."

Catherine took a step closer to William. She placed a hand on his cheek and looked him straight in the eyes. "How are you, William?" she asked with deep concern.

William was taken aback by this unexpected concern for his welfare. Since the loss of his wife, he has focused only on little Will. He really couldn't recall the last time he thought of himself, as Catherine was making him do now. His thoughts briefly lead him to last night on the highway... He took a deep breath and replied, "I'm doing better, now."

"I'm glad to hear that," she replied. She stepped back and was beside her friend Ms. Metcalfe once again. "I want you to know that you are doing a wonderful job raising Will and Anne would be proud of you too." Her praise ended with teary eyes.

In a desire to change the subject, William asked, "How are things going for you Catherine?"

"Fine, I suppose. Elections are next month so we'll soon see which candidate will be sitting on the bench with me. Judge Leroy retired this summer. His shoes will be hard to fill." She stated idly. "I tell you William, one of these days I'll retire and leave Montana. Then I intend to come and live closer to Will." She said this with great longing. She loved her job as a Judge for the Missoula District Courts, but her heart ached to be closer to her grandchild. Because of the distance, she did not see Will nearly as much as she pleased.

William leaned in towards her and gave her a kiss on the cheek. "That would be a welcomed surprise," he replied. "I suppose I should check on the party, so if you'll both please excuse me for now." William turned and walked back through the pasture towards his house.



Jane and Lizzy were enjoying a drink in the living room. Lizzy pondered the occasions that she had met William in the past few years. Usually, they took place at her sister's home while she was visiting. Thinking about it; she really only knew him from conversations with Jane and those few short encounters. Now finding herself inside his home, she was impressed at her surroundings. She admired the way his house was decorated in a very tasteful country style.

"Lizzy, have you given anymore thought to my suggestion for Labor Day weekend?" asked Jane.

"I don't know about camping, Jane. It sounds as though the Falls would be a beautiful sight, but sleeping in a tent at night... not exactly my style."

"Oh come on, Lizzy. You need a break from work!"

Lizzy couldn't help but grin at her sister's astute analysis. Recently she was feeling overworked and underpaid. "Oh all right, I'll reconsider."

"Remember, we have all the camping gear, so all you need to do is come and enjoy the sites with us." Jane said, in hopes of baiting her sister into coming.

"I said, I'll think about it Jane!"

Jane noticed Georgie enter the house and heading for the kitchen. Her arms were full of food for the barbecue. She hurried to give her a hand.

"Georgie, you're here. Let us help you," replied Jane.

"Thanks. Is this your sister?" She asked, looking back over her shoulder at Lizzy, while heading down the hallway to the kitchen. "William told me this morning that we should expect her."

"Oh yes, Georgie, this is my sister Elizabeth."

"Lizzy will do. It's nice to meet you, Georgie." Lizzy still did not appreciate her formal name. She somehow felt robbed of her youth when using it.

Georgie inquired, "Now, you live in Washington, Lizzy?"

"Yes, in Walla Walla."

"And what do you do again?" questioned Georgie.

"I'm an instructor at the community college. I've been teaching cosmetology for a few years there."

"They offer 'trade' education at the community college?" Georgie queried a bit surprised.

"Yes, they do. It is a very beneficial system and seems to work well." Lizzy replied.

From the doorway of the kitchen, the ladies heard a deep voice. "Georgie, I thought I saw you come in, better late than never?"

"I'm here now, brother dearest. I was up late last night because I met someone interesting. Some of us do have social lives." She retorted back at William.

Jane and Lizzy felt ill at ease witnessing this discussion. They exchanged awkward looks with one another before Jane broke the silence. "William, are you ready to start the barbecue?"

"And miss out on the roast in here? Yes, I feel that would better serve my interests, Jane."

"If you go light the grill, I'll bring food out to you." Jane replied with encouragement.

With that, William turned and left the room. Jane looked at Georgie and shook her head in condemnation. For as long as she has known Georgie, she has never been able to figure her out.

Lizzy, trying to make herself useful, offered to take a tray of burgers and steaks to William. As she approached him, she extended some appreciation.

"Thank you for having me over today, especially on such short notice."

William didn't look up from the barbecue, but replied, "You should thank your sister for that."

Lizzy was puzzled by his bluntness. She decided to express concern to William about the scene in the kitchen.

"Your sister shouldn't speak to you in such a disrespectful manner."

William was in no mood to be social with Jane's little sister. Who does she think she is questioning my family values? I barely even know this woman. He looked at her for a moment, then taking the platter from her and boldly suggested, "Perhaps your sister would appreciate your company back in the kitchen." With that said, he resumed his attentions to the grill, discontinuing further attempts of communication with Lizzy.

As Lizzy returned into the house, she couldn't help but dwell on what just happened. She wondered why William was so ill behaved towards her. She was curious if it was she who offended him so. As Lizzy pondered these thoughts a question came to mind. Who exactly is this Mr. Darcy?



Dinner went off without a hitch. They had prepared and consumed enough food to feed a small army. After the dinner dishes were cleared, the guests settled back around the tables. There was a cool breeze now which made the heat much more tolerable. The guests were delighted with this happy occasion. Little Will was surrounded by attention.

"Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday dear Will... Happy birthday to you!" The guests turned their heads to the singing. They could see William carrying the cake, topped with sparkling candles, over to the table. With much happiness, they all joined him in another round of 'Happy birthday'.

Will blew out both candles in just three tries. All the while, Charlotte stood in the background singing her own version of 'Happy birthday' to the little boy.

"Blow out the candles on the cake and make a wish, and then we'll serve everybody's favorite dish... Happy birthday, Happy birthday, Happy birthday!"

Her enthusiasm did not go unnoticed by William. She clearly held an interest in children and this pleased him.

As the evening set in, guest started to depart. Most bid farewell to the Darcys and thanked them for a pleasant afternoon. Finally, as the last of the guests left, William fell exhausted into a chair. He had little energy left after the busy day. Things went fairly well during the party, he thought. Little Will crawled up into his lap and William sang his son a lullaby. Soon, Will was fast asleep.

"Happy Birthday, son," whispered William before he kissed Will goodnight.

 

Chapter Five

Thank God, there are only a couple more days until the weekend, thought Lizzy this morning as she was heading to her classroom. The last several weeks seemed to pass at a snail's pace. She was looking forward to the extra day off from work. Labor Day will be this upcoming weekend. As she found herself outside her classroom door, she took a deep breath, exhaled, and put a smile on. Just a few more days, she told herself.

Soon Lizzy was lecturing her class on Bacteriology. "Again, if you nip a client's ear, you hold the liability of exposing them to HIV, Hepatitis, and other dreadful pathogens. How long can some of these viruses live on your implements?" She paused a moment and then continued lecturing her quiet classroom.

"Some pathogens can live up to seventeen days on your scissors. You're a group of students, practicing hands on here. How many of you have cut yourselves while in training?" She looked at the classroom of students; all had their hands raised.

"That's right, 99% of you have. How many of you sanitize your scissors after a cut?" Lizzy saw the tragic typical answer as she observed her student's responses. Lizzy was shaking her head in disapproval for none of her new students had raised their hands to this question.

"So what I'm saying is that if you have cut yourself and then cut a client, you now have exposure. I don't care what you're told by other teachers, you must sanitize your implements after a cut. This means you must disinfect with quaternary ammonium compounds or sodium hypochlorite."

Josh, a student in the classroom objected, "We're told in the other classroom not to disinfect our scissors because it dulls them."

Lizzy heard this with each new class that entered her room. She taught second level cosmetology. Lizzy was the only instructor who felt strongly about bacteriology and sanitation. This always made her feel sick to her stomach.

"I understand that, Josh. Let me explain it this way. In our field, more than many others, body piercing and tattooing are accepted. Would you find it acceptable if they did not sterilize their equipment between clients?" Lizzy heard gasps throughout the classroom and she smiled. This usually drove her point home. "You must sanitize your implements; scissors or manicuring tools."

"Isn't it unlikely that there is risk involved from getting a manicure," Kim remarked. It was clear this was a statement rather than a question from the student.

"While clipping hangnails, you've most likely drawn blood from a client or two. Then you clip their cuticles, leaving an opening in the epidermis. Those are two examples of ways to infect a client, if using unsanitary tools during a manicure." Lizzy explained to the class.

"The state of Washington's Health Department does not regulate cosmetology or manicuring. Body piercing and tattooing are related fields that not yet regulated by the health department as well. This is a very scary reality. The state of Oregon Health Departments does regulate such fields. Some examples of their laws are: if you are a person with a diagnosed communicable disease you may not work in this field. If you are a person with a cuts or open sores on you hands, you must be gloved up to work. If you are a per..." the bell flooded out Lizzy's voice. Theory was now over so she dismissed her class with the motion of her hand.

"Miss Bennet, you have a call on line two." Lizzy heard over the intercom system. She went to the office and answered the line.

"This is Lizzy Bennet, may I help you?"

"Hello Lizzy, it's Jane."

"Hey, what's up?"

"Are you packed up and ready to go for the weekend?" Jane asked with optimism.

"Jane, I just don't know..."

"Lizzy if you don't come, how are you going to spend this weekend? I'll tell you. You'll sit in your apartment, in your pajamas, watching reruns all weekend long!"

Lizzy became annoyed at Jane, because she was correct. Lizzy had no plans for the weekend and, honestly, if she stayed home she would do just as Jane suspected. "Fine, I'll be there late Friday night. I'll leave right after work."

"You won't regret this, Lizzy. You deserve to treat yourself to a getaway. We'll see you on Friday night."

As Lizzy hung up the phone, now she wasn't sure she wanted the weekend to come.



Saturday morning Lizzy awoke to Jane's voice. "Rise and shine, daylight's in the swamps."

Lizzy covered her head with her pillow to drown out Jane's cheery song.

The door to the guest room swung open and Jane made another attempt to wake Lizzy. "Breakfast's ready!"

Lizzy looked at the clock and then wondered how people can eat breakfast at 6:00 in the morning. "Wake me up again in a couple of hours, Jane."

Laughing, Jane replied, "Remember, we are going camping. We want to get an early start. Now get up."

Lizzy begrudgingly got out of bed. She gathered her personal effects. A shower will help me wake up, she thought. As she entered the hall leading to the bathroom she collided with William Darcy. For a moment Lizzy froze. She realized what her appearance must be like at this moment. Embarrassed, she briskly headed for the bathroom without a word. Once the bathroom door separated them she wondered, what is he doing here and at this hour of the morning... he must be going camping too. I can't believe this, what has my sister talked me into?

Shortly after her shower, Lizzy found herself in the passenger seat of William's truck and she couldn't help but feel uncomfortable. Jane and Charlie's car was full of camping gear, which left no room for Lizzy to ride with them. She wanted to drive her own car, but they wouldn't have it. Her luggage was being transferred into the back of William's truck and then they would be on their way.

The silence was short lived once a golden colored, hairy mutt leaped from the backseat of the truck onto Lizzy's lap. Lizzy was not what one would call a 'dog person'. Will's new little puppy was a playful sort. He certainly meant no offence in his actions towards her. This, however, was of no consideration.

"William!" shouted Lizzy.

"What?" he questioned from the bed of the truck, "I'm not deaf. Must you yell?"

Lizzy was now starting to panic. She had opened the door of the truck and was attempting to slide out from under the golden lab's weight. "I don't like dogs!"

As he approached the cab of the truck, he rolled his eyes. With this reaction to a puppy, he could hardly wait to see how she behaved in the great outdoors. He reached over to the puppy's collar and removed the dog from Lizzy's lap.

"Look what that beast did," she hollered pouting, "He scratched my legs with his sharp nails."

William glanced over to the scene of the crime. He did observe white scratch marks on Lizzy's rather tanned thighs. Although the pup had marked her, no skin had been broken. He really couldn't understand what she was so worked up about. He placed the puppy in the back seat once again, and with its leash and collar, he secured the dog into place for the trip. "Is this better?" he asked.

Lizzy was uncertain if William's last words were a question or a comment. She wasn't about to tolerate his patronizing words this morning. The drive to Twin Falls would take most of the next four hours. She was certain that they did not have enough in common to keep a conversation of interest for that period of time. She grabbed her pillow from the back seat, turned her back towards William, and went back to sleep.

During her nap she had tossed and turned. A few hours had passed since Lizzy's mishap with the puppy, William realized. Concerned for her, he gazed at the scratches on her legs. The scratch marks had faded. He found himself now looking at her and he thought, she looks rather angelic while sleeping. He noticed Lizzy's soft curly brown hair framing her face. His eyes continued to move down her body to her blouse; it lay slightly open exposing the flesh of her breasts. His gaze ended at her soft curves hidden by the lace of her undergarments. He was becoming aroused and forced himself to look away from her. Confused by his current feelings, he tried reasoning with himself. She is Jane's little sister, and until today, I've often found her less than amusing. She also gets under my skin with her thoughtless comments. And most importantly... His thoughts were gone in an instant when he caught a whiff of her perfume. The floral scent somehow managed to clear all thoughts from William's head.

Within moments Lizzy awoke. William, trying to distract her attentions from his obvious physical condition, offered her a drink from the cooler in the backseat of the truck. As she opened up the Pepsi, she asked, "How much longer until we're to the falls?"

"A few more hours, I believe."

"Oh." She thought for a moment and then asked, "Will we be stopping anytime soon?"

"We can, if you need to."

"I'd like to stop for a bathroom break," replied Lizzy.

"That's fine. I'm sure Will is in need of a diaper change as well."

Lizzy looked to the back seat at Will, he was slumbering. "Is he always this good?"

"The truck ride usually put him to sleep."

Less than five miles later they were pulling over to a rest area. Jane and Charlie followed. Lizzy was relieved to have a moment with her sister alone.

"It appeared that you were sleeping Lizzy?" asked Jane.

"In company such as that, what else were my options Jane?" Lizzie stated, rolling her eyes.

"You really shouldn't be so critical of William. Things aren't always as they seem, Lizzy. I think if you chose to be affable towards him, he would respond in kind."

Lizzy considered what Jane had said for a moment. Perhaps she was correct, Lizzy thought. She promised Jane that she would do her best to tolerate Mr. Darcy's company a little longer.

Lizzy found herself once again in the silence of William's truck. Her thoughts lead her to think poor of him once more. She reminded herself of the promise she made to Jane and she turned a bit in her seat and faced William. As she looked at him, she thought to herself, William's actually a handsome man. He's your typical tall, dark, and handsome dream guy in appearance. Lizzy thought that inner beauty was far more important. This was something she had yet to find in Mr. Darcy.

She tried to find a safe subject to broach conversation, "Have you traveled to Shoshone Falls before?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact I have. Have you had the opportunity as well?"

"No, actually I haven't. The times that I've come to Idaho I've seen my sister. Usually, I don't have enough time on the visits to go sight seeing as well."

"Well, the Falls have a history you know. It was named after the Shoshone Indians who used to catch salmon at the mouth of it. They had called it 'hurling waters leaping' because of its 212' drop into the Snake River. It's actually a longer drop than that of the Niagara Falls." William informed Lizzy.

"I didn't know that. It sounds quite amazing."

"It really is, Elizabeth."

Soon they were all at the Shoshone Falls and it was indeed breathtaking. The Snake River seemed to have carved its path into the great rock terrain. The Falls plunged into the river below, filling the air with a cool mist. As the sun fell through the sporadic clouds, it formed a rather remarkable rainbow arching over the base of the Falls. A sign nearby nicknamed it 'The Niagara of the West'. It informed guests that Shoshone Falls was actually 52' longer in the fall than that of the Niagara. As Lizzy looked around, she saw the most vibrant shrubs. A native of Washington, she was accustom to viewing very green landscapes, but these colorful bushes were unlike any she had ever seen. A park attendant came by welcoming groups of visitors to the Falls. She informed them that September is actually a time when the falls are less stunning to the visitors because the water flow is low. The attendant told them that from October to May is the prime and recommended viewing. As she left them, she extended an invitation for them to return for the Oktoberfest activities again next month. When the attendant was gone, Lizzy realized how chilly the wind was whistling through the view point. Jane also detected this and started making a fuss about Will catching cold if they stayed. In a short time, Lizzy found herself back in William's truck; they were heading to the campground.



Jane and Lizzy started cooking dinner while William and Charlie set up camp. They got out the coolers and decided on the traditional hamburgers and hot dogs for dinner. The men intended on fishing in the morning, which would give them seafood for dinner tomorrow. They informed the girls that salmon and trout were running. What excited Lizzy about the men's plans was that she would have Jane to herself for most of the day tomorrow.

As they cleared the picnic table of dinner dishes, William put his son to bed. Lizzy had dish duty this evening and started washing the dishes in the bucket of warm water that they had heated from the campfire. Jane and Charlie got out a deck of cards and some beer. In a short time, they were all gathered back at the table.

Lizzy took in her surroundings as night fell. Camping wasn't something she found herself doing often, and on a beautiful night like this she asked herself why. She closed her eyes for a moment and her senses overwhelmed her. She could hear children laughing, dogs barking, the crackling of burning wood, and the river running beside the campground. She could smell the fresh clean air, suppers of the other campers, and the distinct aroma of the campfires themselves. Now as she opened her eyes again, she could see; lush green trees, a variety of other tents and campers, families riding bicycles, kids playing football in the field, and over by the bathrooms were ongoing games of horseshoe. She turned her attention back to her company. They played cards until the late hours of the evening.

Lizzy woke the next morning somewhat disoriented with her surroundings. After a few moments, she realized she was in a tent. She was amazed at how well she has slept under these conditions. She was looking forward to today for she would have her sister all to herself. As Lizzy immerged from the tent, she noticed Jane was washing breakfast dishes. Little Will stood by her side attempting to dry the dishes that Jane handed to him.

"Good morning, Jane."

"Morning Lizzy. I saved you some breakfast, but now it's almost lunch time so I don't suppose you'll be eating it, "Jane stated.

Lizzy looked down at her watch to check the validity of her sister's comment. She was surprised indeed to see it was late morning. Feeling an apology in order, she stammered at an attempt. "Jane, I'm sorry to have slept half of the day. You know that is so unlike me."

"It's alright Lizzy, I understand. You needed a break and I told you as much when I invited you to come."

As Jane was speaking, Lizzy noticed how pale she looked. Concerned, she asked her, "Are you feeling well?"

"Actually, I woke this morning not feeling like myself. I've had a stomach ache, maybe a touch of the flu."

"Oh Jane, that's awful. Please, go lie down and let me finish the dishes." Lizzy made her way up to the picnic table and took the dish towel from her.

"Thank you Lizzy, but I have to look after Will. I'll be fine."

"Jane, I'll take care of Will. Don't worry about us, go lie down. I'll bring you some juice, once I finish the dishes."

Jane found this difficult to do. She knew that Lizzy had no experience around small children and she would worry about them both. However, she was feeling quite ill and sensed she had no other options. "I'll lie down for a short while Lizzy. If Will needs anything, I'll be in the tent."

Lizzy and Will finished the dishes and checked on Jane. Afterwards, they went for a walk.



William and Charlie were ready to call it a day; they caught their limit of fish and headed back to the campsite by mid afternoon. As they approached their site, things seemed odd. They could not see the girls or Will.

"Do you suppose they went for a hike?" Charlie asked William.

"Have you tried to hike with a two year old, Charlie?" asked William. "I'm certain they did not go hiking."

"Perhaps they went to the bathroom."

"Well, when we get to the site, let's put our gear away and go look for them."

Charlie put his coat in the tent and found Jane. "Jane, wake up honey."

Jane woke nauseous. Although she had rested some it was fitful sleep, for she had worried about Lizzy and Will. "I'm sick, Charlie. I've been in bed all day. How are Lizzy and Will?"

"Well, I don't know, they aren't here. Do you know where they went, Jane?"

"Oh, Charlie,” she said shaking her head, “I don't. Please go find them, I won't get rest until I know they are both okay."

"William has already gone looking for them, so lay back and rest, honey."

William followed the trail from the campsite to the bathrooms but didn't find them. He found himself in a predicament. Even if they were in the ladies room, how will I know? He thought about this for a moment and decided, I'll wait outside the restroom for a few moments and if I don't see them, I'll kindly ask the next lady patron to check inside for me.

"Higher?" Lizzy's voice carried. "You want me to push you higher?" her voice echoed through the woods. William could now hear Will's laughter too. He followed their voices.

Finding himself standing at the corner of a playground, he stood there quiet for several minutes in surprise. He observed Lizzy and Will at the swings having a great time.
Chapter Six

As he drew in a breath of the moist fall air, he felt relief wash through him. William was upon Duke, his Quarter-horse paint, while taking in the surroundings of his property. The season's change provoked alterations in the camouflage of the nearby foliage. 'Thump, thump, thump'... familiar sounds of galloping were magnified upon the crisp leaves that now provided ground cover. Approaching the pond located in the depths of his estate, William startled several foul. Dismounting his horse and sitting upon the bank he thought, this is where I belong. This was his place of serenity, where he could come at any time to escape the anxiety of life. A man of nature; he truly desired the simplicities life offered.

Thinking of what he had to be thankful for, William lie back on the ground and gazed at the clouds in the pale blue sky. He held a talent he shared with few. On days such as these, often while meditating; he created the most beautiful thoughts. Thoughts of little Will entertained him for a while. Will had asked about Lizzy just as William left the house this morning. William deliberated his conscience. He asked himself, could I have discounted Elizabeth too quickly? After all, people say children are the ultimate judges in character, and ever since the camping trip, Will seems crazy about her. His reflections of the past camping trip, of Lizzy and Will on the playground, brought the thought of Anna. The things she has missed in their lives and the realization that life does go on... this was a concept he could finally accept. Of the many thoughts in his head this morning, a poem formed.

As I lie here and revel in this peace, I confide words, secret desires, and passions I feel. Emptiness fills me and I am brutalized and breathless. I accept the burdens, weakness, and madness, but I will no longer suffer. At last I unearth serenity for my part. Life's encounters now bring me pleasures in love.

The morning clouds overhead had burned off and now the sun was beating down upon the land. He knew it was time to return home. He took another long look around and realized how early the season's change has begun. There's much to do to prepare for the rain, he thought as he re-mounted the paint.

It was early afternoon as William approached the horse stalls. He could see the ranch-hand, Randy, grooming his most prized stallion; a raven black Arabian. Andrew's black coat held such richness that as the sun kissed it, he appeared to be a majestic purple. He was a magnificent creature.

"How was your ride this morning, sir?" inquired Randy.

"It was fine, thank you. I see Andrew has kept you busy while I was out." William replied while dismounting.

Randy simply smiled as he took the horse from William. "Good day, sir."

"You too." William nodded his head to his ranch-hand in appreciation, and then walked across the pasture to his home.

William checked the phone messages as was routine when he entered. He sat in a living room chair to remove his riding boots while the messages played.

"William, it's Charlie. I have some great news, Jane and I are expecting!" William heard the excitement in his friend's voice and felt very happy for him. "It's no wonder she has been feeling sick so often lately," the message continued, "she's pregnant. Well, give me a call when you get in." Beep.

"William," he immediately recognized his sister's voice in the next message, "you'll never believe who I met on campus last month. Just three days after my return, there was a knock on my dorm door from George. He's now out of the Service. While passing through Pocatello, he thought to stop and visit." As William heard this he was glad he was sitting down. "I couldn't send him on without doing my part to help him because he's without work or a place to stay. So, I offered him my couch to sleep on until he is back on his feet." William's pulse had quickened and he was clenching his teeth. "In the meantime, we have enjoyed each others company a great deal. Homecoming is this next weekend and he agreed to be my date. I can hardly wait for the weekend. I hope all is well your way. Please give my love to Will. I'll call again when I have time. I love you guys." Beep.

With this news, his feelings of disdain for Wickham deepened. For that poor excuse of a human to take advantage of his sister like this is deplorable. William was infuriated with this news. His sister was naive of Wickham's maniacal ways. He pondered, what am I going to do about this? "Shit!" William weighed the thought on the eight-hour drive to Georgie's school so that he may have it out with Wickham once and for all. Deliberating this option, William was certain it would bring him vast pleasure, but it would not bring the conclusion he wished for. In fact, he was apprehensive that it may have the contrary affect on Georgie. "Damn it, he has really crossed the line!" William was uncertain how to best handle this news.



That Sunday morning was very relaxing. Georgie didn't usually have an entire morning to herself. She sent George out to pick up supplies for his resume. He had spent the last three weeks in her dorm and she tried to encourage him to set and keep some future goals for himself. He looked in the area for a job; he was trained in the service in computer programming. Pocatello's located in the hills of Idaho, a metropolitan area really. It holds the population of fifty-five thousand. Surely George would be able to locate a good job in no time at all with his training, Georgie thought.

She spent the morning rereading Vector by her favorite author, Robin Cook. Each time she had a chance to read, she found herself in awe of this writer. He was a doctor himself and almost all of his books were based on medical sciences. She was amazed with the endless foresight this man processed. Vector is a book of bioweapons and bioterrorism including outbreaks such as Anthrax, Botulinum toxin, Ebola virus, Salmonellosis, etc. She bought this book while in high school and it was becoming well worn. As many of her books, this one had lost the paper cover and the corners of this hardback book were becoming worn down. Several of this author's books reminded her of what drove her to her choice of studies. Biomedical research technology had advanced so vastly that it was the medical professions responsibility to treat, investigate, and contain any outbreaks associated with bioweapons. It's the nightmare experts fear will one day come, when one of the many pathogenic viruses will be combined with the transmittable ease of influenza. Glancing down at her watch she realized she was late for tutoring. She grabbed her books and left in a rush for the library.

This was Georgie's second year at ISU. Upon enrolling to attend school here, she was positive of the direction her future held. She was intending on studying Pharmaceutical Sciences. This was her way of expressing her humanity towards others. She had always held a strong passion for sciences and right now she was enrolled in her share. Georgie's goal was to complete her second year with honors, and then to enroll in the four year Doctor of Pharmacy program. A professional doctorate was her goal by the end of her studies.

As she entered the library her usual glance at the right hand wall provided her instant comfort. The wall was lined with collages of the past graduating classes and, out of habit, her eye always went straight to the picture of her brother. Idaho State University was William's alma mater.



Evening fell and Jane lay in bed listening to the rain pounding on the rooftop. She had been married for three years and was ecstatic with the prospect of the new addition. If only she didn't have to feel so nauseated most of the time, she was certain this could be a more enjoyable time. The doctor informed Jane that she should be feeling better soon, for morning sickness usually plagues expecting mothers for only the first twelve weeks. By their estimate, she was already in week ten, putting her due date in April. In consolation for her endless nausea, she recalled in vivid detail the rapid thumping of the baby's heart heard for the first time this morning. It was so fast it reminded her of a kitten purring. This is what it was all about, she thought. She was thankful that Charlie was at the appointment with her. They shared tears of joy as the doctor aided them in hearing their unborn child.

Jane was planning on traveling to Bend to visit her parents this weekend. After discussing it with Charlie, they decided to wait until they were together to share the exciting news with her parents. She was dreading the long car ride through Idaho and half of Oregon with the way she had been feeling lately. This was the draw back of the quick weekend trip.

Although they had waited to tell her family, she couldn't keep it more than a few hours from Lizzy. Jane had called her after the appointment this morning to surprise her. This was everything she hoped for; her dear and kind sister was full of excitement and well wishes. She had always shared a special bond with Lizzy and was glad she called her. They ended the call with arrangements for Lizzy to come visit the weekend before Halloween. In three more weeks, I'll feel better, and Lizzy and I'll start making preparations for the baby. I can hardly wait! Jane looked forward to this with much eagerness.

Charlie knew that little support would be offered from his side of the family. Perhaps this was why he called and shared one of the happiest moments in his life with his best friend instead of his siblings. They had never cared for Jane, and Charlie couldn't see this latest news improving their feelings of her now. They had always viewed Charlie's choice for a wife as unintelligent. Their brother's marriage was an arrangement his sisters considered a temporary one.



The weekend was here and Jane had barely survived the drive to her parent's house. She was miserable the entire trip. Even the greatly missed snowfall Jane was now viewing was unable to lift her spirits. As they approached the Bennet's home, Jane and Charlie felt awkward pulling into the drive. Her dad was a self proclaimed 'Proud American' and had little tolerance for those who were not. If it wasn't made and produced in the USA, he wouldn't have part in it. He always frowned upon their choice of automobiles, not because he worked at a local Ford dealership, but because they chose to drive a Toyota Landcruiser.

They were met at the door by her parents. Immediately her mother's shrilling voice was harping on Jane of her appearance. As much as she loved her parents, it was moments like this that she hoped she would not parent like them. Kitty, Lydia, and Mary were soon lined up at the doorstep waiting their turn to hug and welcome Jane. Everyone was able to make it here this weekend with the exception of Lizzy.

Later that evening, while the family was gathered around the dinner table, the Bingleys made their announcement. For the rest of the evening, this was the only subject of conversation. The anticipation of the new arrival was torturous to all, especially poor Jane. That night, her mother came to her room as if tucking her into bed, to share some 'pearls of wisdom'.

"I just know, Jane, that you are carrying a boy." Mrs. Bennet stated sardonically as she sat on the bedside next to Jane.

Jane just rolled her eyes. She was in no frame of mind to council her mother tonight, which was often what these interludes lead to.

"Darling, I found myself with child five times in my life; five times. Never did I feel sick, but I carried girls each time I was pregnant. So you see you must be carrying a boy child, my dear. Now, we must not feel sorry for ourselves Jane." Mrs. Bennet picked up Jane's hand and was patting it in rhythm with her speech. "You're a young woman and have put yourself into this predicament, so you are just going to have to tough this out." Mrs. Bennet gave her head a firm nod as to top off her summation with some authority.

"Yes mother." Jane found herself responding, even though her desire was to reach across the bed and slap some sense into her instead. She knew this was what needed to be said in order for her mother to leave her in some peace. Jane was calmed by the thought that they would be departing at noon tomorrow and she wouldn't see her mother again until Thanksgiving.

Chapter Seven

Lizzy could hardly believe three weeks had passed since receiving the news that Jane was expecting. This was wonderful news without a doubt. As she headed out to Jane's house, the radio broadcast informed that I-84 was closed southbound due to a horrific accident involving a tanker spill. This was the normal route for Lizzy, and forced to find an alternate, she grabbed her map. Once she had a plan, she picked up the phone and dialed her sister's number.

"Hello," Jane said answering the phone.

"Hey, it's me Jane. How are you feeling today?" asked Lizzy.

"I'm feeling a little better. I thought morning sickness was supposed to have subsided by now, but I'm still waiting." Jane replied somberly.

"Oh man, sis. I really wish you felt better. Are you sure you still want me over?"

"Of course I do! After this weekend, I won't see you again until the holidays." Jane moped.

"Okay Jane," Lizzy replied with a smile, "I'm on my way. Listen, I-84 is shut down so I'll be coming Highway 95 instead. See you soon."

"Drive safe Lizzy, the rain is really coming down over here, it has been pouring all day long." Jane added with concern.

"Thanks! I'll see you soon." Lizzy hung up and tossed her cell phone into her handbag.

Lizzy had figured this route would take her about five hours to get to Jane's house.

While passing through Lewiston, she spotted a shopping mall. Eager to bear gifts for the new baby, she stopped to pick up something. Shopping for items such as these was new to Lizzy, she had no idea how many things were offered for infants. Lizzy finally purchased a beautiful silver picture frame and rattle, as well as an overstuffed cuddly teddy bear that played a tape of the mother heartbeat. As the clerk rang her purchase, she realized she had lost track of the time. She couldn't believe it was already 5:45. While running from the mall back to her car in the pouring down rain, Jane's comment popped into her head. She wanted to get back onto the highway and then she thought, she would call Jane, but she found that she was without a signal.



Jane listened to the voice mail on Lizzy cell phone again. This was the sixth time in the last ninety minutes. The growing concern in the pit of her stomach was relentless. She just knew something was wrong. Jane had thought out a plan, unable to think of anything else for the last hour. It was now 8:00 in the evening and she was determined to go and find Lizzy. Because William lived an hour north of them, she dialed his number.

"Good evening, Jane." William answered the phone after checking the caller ID.

"Listen William, I need your help. Lizzy was on her way here for a visit today and she hasn't shown up." Jane spoke with such panic that he had difficulty understanding her.

"She hasn't shown up yet?" William questioned to clarify that he understood her.

"No she hasn't. Long story short, she should have been her by now."

"When was the last time you talked to her?" he asked.

"She left from work this afternoon just before two o'clock, I spoke with her then. William I know something has happened to her. This is what I want to do; I'll leave Weiser and drive north until I come to New Meadows. She may be broke down somewhere between us. You need to leave and drive north in case she didn't make it this far. We can cover twice the ground this way and find her more quickly."

"I got you, Jane. I'll get Will and we'll leave in about five minutes."

"Great. Keep your cell on you so we can keep in touch." Jane requested.

"Will do. Jane,” William said confidently, trying to reassure her, “she's just fine. Most likely she has a flat tire or something. It'll all be okay."



It became abundantly clear that the farther south she headed, the harder the rain fell. Lizzy was having difficulty keeping speed without losing sight of the road. Soon she found herself concentrating so hard on the road through the blurring windshield, that she was getting a headache. She turned up the radio thinking it would help her relax a little under these strenuous driving conditions. Struggling, she tried to stay focused on the red watermarks in front of her. In the darkness, the taillights of another traveler were all she could make out in front of her. Lizzy started contemplating whether or not to pull over and see if she could wait out the storm.

"OH GOD!" she found herself screaming.

"OH GOD!" Lizzy's car started sliding into the other lane. She gripped the wheel tightly with both hands.

What in the hell is going on? She asked herself while unsuccessfully trying to counter-steer.

"Shit!" She stomped on the brake, and the car fishtailed. It felt as though she was on an icy road, but of course, she wasn't.

"OH GOD!" Lizzy's heart was racing and her mind couldn't comprehend a reason for this loss of control of her car.

She tried to find the taillights of the car that was up in front of her. She blinked several times to be sure, yes, she did see them. They too were out of control and heading into the oncoming lane. Now she could see white lights, assuredly the oncoming traffic, heading straight for her. In this brief moment, Lizzy closed her eyes and braced herself for impact. Her Toyota Camry slammed into the oncoming vehicle, causing her car to spin around in a circle, before heading down an embankment. Her car slid rapidly about three yards down and came to a stunted stop. Lizzy could hear the front end of her car make noises she knew were detrimental.

She sat there for a moment in a darkened abyss. Her heart, and the rain pounding down on the top of the car, was in unison. If it weren't for that very oddity, she probably would have doubted making it through this disaster alive. She started evaluating the situation now that her vehicle seemed stable. She could faintly see a pair of taillights out her passenger side window; it was in a comparable position and to her right. Headlights of the vehicle she collided with were behind her. Her sedan's motor had died but she had not lost electrical, for her dashboard was still very well lit. She had her seatbelt on; therefore little damage was inflicted upon her. She took a moment to thank God she was unharmed.

Thankfully, she and the other driver, were not traveling the speed limit because of the weather. Surely the impact could have been fatal had they been at the speed limit of fifty-five miles per hour. Lizzy thought she should try to make her way to the other cars and see if anyone needed help. With numerous futile attempts, she realized that opening the doors wasn't an option. She was trying to stay composed. She snagged the phone from her purse and rapidly dialed 911. Nothing... she was still in an area without a signal. "Damn it!" Lizzy slammed the palm of her hands onto the steering wheel. She was confused and angry. She closed her eyes and thought for a few minutes. Opening her eyes, she noticed the glowing green dashboard clock; it read 8:43. Lizzy thought, All I have to do is wait patiently, when I don't show up, Jane will come for me.



Now that they were stopped, William checked on his son in the back seat. Much to his astonishment, Will was still sound asleep. He had been looking for Lizzy for the past forty-five minutes, and had been unsuccessful. He turned on the CB radio in his truck and set it to channel nine.

"Breaker channel nine, I have an emergency. I'm about fifteen miles south of Riggens and have been involved in a multiple vehicle accident."

"Is anyone injured?" inquired the baystation operator.

"I'm unsure at this time. Three automobiles are involved as far as I can assess." William responded. Although his heart was pounding forcefully, he and Will were unharmed. Heck, Will didn't even wake from the accident. That was certainly one of the perks of owning a large truck, sitting hirer off of the ground; they are much more durable in these situations.

"How did the accident occur?"

"Natural disaster, a mudslide has covered both lanes of the highway."

"Sir, stay in your vehicle until an officer arrives on the scene. You should expect them in twenty minutes."

"Twenty minutes?"

"Yes sir. Over."

William's first thought, I'm not going to sit here if I can help the others. His truck sat pretty high off of the road, so the door opened with ease. He could see the car he collided with just twenty feet or so away. William jumped out of his truck and found himself close to knee deep in mud. Immediately he found it very difficult to keep his balance. Once steady on his feet, he set his focus on the car in front of him. There was a great deal of trees, shrubs, and rocks, washed out and now mixed in the mud. William felt like he was in an obstacle course. One step, two steps, three steps... William found himself mentally counting out his paces. He thought of the irony, this is something we all take for granted. On step four, he lost a shoe somewhere in the depths of the mud. He continued on, dragging his feet rather than lifting them. The mud was the consistency of sludge at the bottom of a puddle, William thought while struggling to keep his balance. It was not so thick that he couldn't walk, but it was not thin enough that could confidently make his way through it either. Four steps, fiiiivvee... Losing his balance, he fell to his knees. The rain had already soaked through all layers of his clothes, and now he was covered in mud. He struggled to get back onto his feet, and with great effort, he was standing again.

Under the weather conditions he was in, William was struggling to feel his wet and mud covered fingers. They were burning and tingling at the same time. His curly hair was now so saturated, that the weight of the water straightened it, causing his bangs to fall down into his eyes and impairing his vision even further. He started his count over, one step, two steps, three steps; he was pleased for he felt he was building some momentum, foourrr... "Whoa!" His hands were swinging wildly in all directions in attempts to regain balance. After a moment, he realized he had succeeded in staying on his feet. As he took the next step, he felt a great stab of pain in his groin. I foolishly pulled a muscle with this stunt, he scolded himself. Standing tall for a moment, he found himself between the car and his truck; he was unsure which direction to go now. He was dead centre between the two vehicles. This venture now came with great pain in a very sensitive area, and he considered returning to his truck. He could see Will was still asleep and was glad he left the light on in the cab. More worried about the driver of the sedan, he decided to forge on towards their car. William was successful in taking five more steps before losing balance again and sliding nine feet or so down the embankment. There on his knees, covered in mud, he banged on the window of the sedan. Every time his hands made contact with the car, stabbing pain ran through his numb fingers.



Lizzy was nearly scared to death when she heard a banging noise on her window. She squinted to see through the mud smudges. Shocked to see someone outside of her car, she rolled her window down.

"Are you hurt?" she heard a man's voice ask.

"No, are you?" she questioned in return.

"No, I am..." before William could finish his sentence he realized who he was talking too, "Elizabeth!"

Lizzy held her breath, startled and confused at the prospect that this man knew her name. She couldn't see him well enough to tell who it was. Quickly it came to her; it was William. He's the only person who calls her Elizabeth. With immediate concern she queried, "What happened here?"

"The rain has caused a mud slide," he replied wearily.

Things now made sense to Lizzy about the cause of the accident. Puzzled of his presence she asked, "What are you doing here?" And then, in panic, she blurted out impatiently, "Is Will with you?"

"I am looking for you. Jane called me an hour ago to search for you. And yes, Will is in my truck up on the road, asleep."

"I have tried my cell but..." she was interrupted by William.

"I used my CB before I came down here to check on you. The police have been dispatched." William cupped his hands up into a ball and brought them up to his mouth. Each time he exhaled he tried to blow into them to warm his fingers.

Lizzy saw this and felt sympathetic. Instinctively, she reached out of her window and wrapped her hands around William's to warm them. Feeling a shocking sensation rip through her body, the feelings that flooded her overwhelmed her spirit. Caught off-guard, she felt herself blushing in this moment's intimacy. Lizzy was in trepidation of what to do or say next.

They listened to each other breathe, silently wondering what lie ahead for them. Their eyes had locked and only the sounds of the approaching sirens could break the spell.
 

Chapter Eight

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, nor touched; but are felt in the heart. —Helen Keller

Little else entertained William's thoughts than Elizabeth; he was unable to stop thinking about her. After the accident, they had spent the following day with Charlie and Jane. Lizzy's Camry had been towed away from the accident; because of this William had hoped to drive her home. However, his hopes were dashed when Jane insisted on taking her home personally. She had returned to Walla Walla and he missed her.

With Elizabeth in his mind, he recalled the fiery sensations that overwhelmed him that night. They started simply with her warm touch. He recalled with incredible intensity how his breath grew ragged, his heart had seemed to swell, and his blood boiled. A magnetic force had caused their eyes to lock and William wished wholeheartedly to pursue it, to explore the feelings he hoped were mutual.

William was pulled from his thoughts by the phone ringing. "Wilcox Rentals, how may I help you?" he answered.

"Hi William, it's Georgie," he heard her say. He was so glad to hear from his sister that he almost didn't pick up the awkward undertone in her voice.

"Hi Georgiana, what's wrong?"

"I wanted to let you know that everything is fine this way. I'm fine." Georgie informed William, trying to reserve her frustrations. She knew she was about to lead this conversation to a sour note and was not pleased at that prospect.

"I'm glad to hear that. How are your classes going?"

"They're a lot of work, but I'm enjoying my studies. I'm not sure if I'll be able to continue tutoring other students next semester, though."

"Have you decided to take that extra class next semester?" William questioned.

"Yes, I've decided to take an extra Physics class during winter semester. It should take up all my extra time, but I know I can do this."

"I'm proud of you. You're really doing a great job."

"Thanks. I'm trying my best."

Remembering that the last time they spoke she had been looking forward to homecoming, he inquired about it. "How did homecoming go?"

This was the can of worms Georgie was dreading to open. She continued for a few more minutes to beat around the bush. "It was fine. We had a great time. George was a great date for the big game."

William felt as though he was on shaky ground. He wanted to be very careful not to say the wrong thing to Georgie about Wickham. Although his sister was very responsible, she was also still very much a young adult. Her level of immaturity often showed at times like these with a rebellious attitude. He simply had to know one thing and couldn't find a way to ask without being direct. "Is Wickham still staying with you?"

Georgie was momentarily relieved at her brother's question, because she knew he would approve of the answer. "No. He was hired by a company here to work full time as a computer programmer. He found an apartment and is on his own."

William felt relief wash through him. Trying to sound positive, he stated, "I'm glad to hear that. I suppose you're still seeing him then?"

Here we go, she thought to herself. She took a moment before responding to William's question. "Yes we're still seeing each other. And that's what I wanted to talk to you about."

William was immediately at a loss for words. Of all the possible scenarios his mind was playing through right now, he just stood in silence with the phone cradled to his ear.

Georgie knew she had William's undivided attention. She continued, "As you know, Thanksgiving's in a few weeks. And we're both aware that George has no one to spend the holiday with."

Before Georgie could finish her statement, William interrupted. Angrily he replied, "He's not welcome in my home, Georgiana. And I find it reprehensible that you would even consider bringing that idea to me." William's face was now flushed.

Georgie had expected this reaction from her brother and was prepared to deal with it in her own right. "I didn't ask nor did I expect to bring George with me to your house for the holiday, quite the opposite actually. William, I wanted to let you know that I will not be coming this year to spend the holiday with you."

William took a moment to grasp what his sister had just said. This can't be, he thought. "We've always been together for every Thanksgiving, it's family tradition. Georgiana, don't be ridiculous!" William stated with a raised voice.

Georgie did not want to hurt her brother's feelings; however, she had made her decision. She stated firmly to William, "Have a happy Thanksgiving and give my love to Will." With that said, she hung up the phone. As she replaced the phone upon the cradle, she didn't feel lonely; she felt independent. This was a concept she had flirted with last year while away at her first year of college. She felt exhilarated with her newfound freedom.



William had dropped little Will off at Jane's that morning before the crack of dawn since he was driving to Walla Walla for an auction. Twice a year since he had opened his business, he would expand and replace rental equipment. He always fared well and felt the auctions were usually worth the half a day's drive to Washington.

This trip was a little different for the fact that he knew that Lizzy lived in Walla Walla. Before a few weeks ago, that meant nothing of importance to him. Now, things had changed and he wanted to visit her while he was there. He thought of how he should approach her with an evening out on the town... I'll call her at the school and ask her out for dinner. I can make reservations at the hotel for dinner; yes, that will work. He was feeling pleased with this plan. I'll call when I have a free moment during the day.

As he rolled into town, it was almost lunch time. He dialed information on his cell and asked for the phone number to the Community College's Cosmetology building. As he was waiting for the operator to provide him with the requested information, he noticed he was driving past the college. On a whim, he hung up the phone, and flipped a U-turn at the next intersection. I'll stop in and ask her; after all it will be harder for her to turn me down in person. He glanced at his reflection in the mirror to make sure he looked acceptable. I could certainly use a haircut. This gave him a marvelous idea. He parked his truck and, with a devilish grin, he strode through the front doors of the school.

When William approached the appointment counter, he couldn't help but notice the student behind it. She looks as if she walked right out of a costume shop, he thought to himself. She had piercing all over her face: eyebrows, nose, lips, cheeks and of course her ears as well. Her hair was dyed a color of black that reminded him of his stallion Andrew, and her clothes required the aid of numerous safety pins to hold them around her body. When she asked William how she could help him, he was distracted by the multiple piercings on her tongue as well. Why would anyone want to do this to themselves? He asked himself this question while realizing how repulsed he was by this young lady's appearance. I can't fathom what would possess one to do this in the first place, not to mention the pain tolerance one must have to torture themselves like this.

He tried not to stare at this student as he responded to her. "I'm here to see Miss Bennet."

"You can take a seat over there and she'll be with you soon." As she was speaking, she pointed to the lobby chairs. William was not surprised to see her tattooed arms and that she donned black nail polish to match her repertoire.

Within about five minutes' time, Lizzy appeared in the lobby and was surprised to see William. As she approached, she couldn't help but wonder what brought him this way, much less into her work. Really, since that night a few weeks ago, she had thought and wished for a moment such as this but certainly didn't expect it. As she was standing before him she felt like someone needed to pinch her arm to wake her from this dream. Blushing, she stated, "Hi William."

William stood up and replied, "Hello Elizabeth."

"How are you doing?" Lizzy barely got a coherent sentence out as she thought to herself how nice it was to see him again.

"I'm fine. And how are you?" He asked her with the greatest curiosity. He gazed at her flushed cheeks and thought to himself that he had made her uncomfortable. I can't believe I came here without calling first. I acted on a whim, without a thought of how she felt; I am such an ass!

"Fine, thank you. Um, William, what are you doing here?" Lizzy couldn't contain her curiosity another minute.

William tried to put her more at ease with his reply. He smiled and said, "I'm here for a haircut. I understand that you are a hairdresser, so will you cut my hair?"

Lizzy couldn't help but laugh at William's solicitation of her services. Again she looked at him and couldn't believe he was really here. "You're insufferable!" she stated while gazing into the windows to his soul.

William continued to stare at Lizzy with a contemptuous grin and nodded his head.

It was harrowing for Lizzy as she tried to hide her profound emotions for William. Her deepest instincts were to express what her heart was feeling, but she was deathly afraid. Painfully aware that she was under observation by her students, she replied to William, "You're right on time, Mr. Darcy."

As Lizzy observed the surprise on William's face, she was tickled with the results of her subtle flirting. He came for a haircut, then I'll give him a haircut; she planned. Turning on her heel, she announced to all of her class that she would be doing a demonstration of a haircut on naturally curly hair in five minutes. Those interested in viewing this should meet her at the empty station on the clinic floor. Turning her attentions back to William, she waved her hand in a long flowing stroke past her body and to the shampoo bowls. With a grin of nothing more than pure amusement at this point, she asked him, "Shall we?"



On the drive home, all Lizzy could think of was her amazingly peculiar day. She was still in shock recalling how William stopped by her work, asked for a haircut, and then insisted on taking her out that evening.

She parked her car in the carport along side her townhouse. As she walked to the mailboxes, she could hear the crisp leaves crackling under her steps. The trees were practically bare now, while the ground was lined with what was once their covering. She was positive that they were in for an early winter this year and had a premonition that she would see snow by Thanksgiving.

Her cat, Lenore, greeted her at the front door. Lizzy came in and set her things down on the table. She went into the kitchen and placed the few breakfast dishes into the dishwasher. Heading down the hall to her bedroom, her cat followed, tenaciously reminding Lizzy to feed it. She stepped into the laundry room and dropped a couple of handfuls of food into the cat's bowl. Then she knelt down next to her pet and stroked it for a few moments. As she spent a few moments listening to the purring, her mind scrutinized her wardrobe for an outfit to wear that night. William had mentioned he was staying at the Best Western and he would be taking her to a restaurant nearby. That was certainly the nicest hotel in town, so she thought a dress was probably most appropriate. The red dress she bought a few weeks ago came to mind. Yes, that's it.

As Lizzy viewed her image in the mirror, she was certainly pleased. She had always felt that red was her color, and the slippery fabric conformed nicely to her frame. Once I freshen up my make-up, I might look worthy of an evening out. Lizzy could not remember the last time she had been so anxious before going on a date.

Just as she was applying a coat of ruby lipstick, the doorbell rang. William's here. She knew she had little time to freshen up and was thankful she had covered the basics before he arrived.

As she opened the door, there he stood with a vase of roses. She was pleased with the gesture; roses were her favorite. Typically she had become accustomed to seeing him in denims and shirts, a very casual look. But tonight she noticed he was wearing a pair of navy khakis and a turtleneck, with a gorgeous sweater pulled over it. She silently giggled to herself, while admiring his appearance. When she gave him a haircut earlier, she removed those unsightly sideburns he was wearing. She thought he looked much better without them and questioned whether he had been indifferent to the change. When she had finished his haircut and turned him back to face the mirror, he had said nothing about it; he simply expressed his gratitude.

In the subsequent hours, they had gone to the restaurant within the hotel and ordered seafood dinners. William was pleased with the way things had progressed to this point. They had just ordered another bottle of wine and were toying with the thought of dessert.

Lizzy sat quietly for a moment. She reflected on the conversation and realized they had spoken, for the most part, of her family. She was certainly interested in learning more about him. "So I understand from Jane that you lost your parents when you were fairly young?"

"Yes. This was extra hard on my sister at the time; she's ten years my junior."

"That must have been very complicated as you've had the added responsibility of raising your sister?"

"Yes, yes I have. She's a great kid." William paused a moment and finished the last of the wine in his glass before continuing. "I wish I could assist her further right now."

Lizzy was puzzled by his last comment. She was enjoying herself immensely and didn't want to spoil the evening by prying into unknown territory. With contemplation, she decided to continue cautiously. "Siblings can unquestionably drive one mad." Lizzy leaned across the table and lowered her voice some before continuing. "I should very well know, having four of my own."

William was captured by Lizzy's soft voice, and he couldn't help but notice the way the candlelight danced in her eyes. The trance was broken when the maître d' approached with another bottle of wine. As he poured a sample into William's glass, he inquired if there was anything more they would care to order. Crème Brulée was Lizzy's favorite so without much thought she ordered this confection. William gazed at her with an upraised eyebrow and a smirk. After a moment's pause, he requested the same. On cue he sipped from his glass and nodded in approval. The maître d' filled both their glasses and left the table in silence.

William felt so very comfortable in Lizzy's presence. Perhaps that was why he told her about George Wickham. "You see, Georgiana is going through an awkward stage right now. Her behavior and good judgment have been clouded I'm afraid. Don't misunderstand, she is a young woman and is certainly entitled to make her own mistakes. I just hate seeing her being taken advantage of by Wickham."

"Wickham?" Lizzy did not recall hearing this name before from William or Jane.

"Yes. He... We were raised together." William fell quiet for a brief pause before continuing. His hatred for George was showing through as he unconsciously distorted the use of his name. "Wickham's father was at a disadvantage and so at a young age my father took him in; he cared and provided for him. What was absolutely deplorable is the fact that when my father passed, Wickham didn't have enough respect for him, for our family, to attend his memorial. It was just a short while following that his own father passed."

Lizzy could see that this subject was distressing to William. Part of her felt honored that he felt comfortable enough with her to share this; the other part of her was at a loss of how to best to relate to this matter. "People do things while in mourning that they wouldn't necessarily do otherwise. Maybe, with that in consideration..."

William interrupted Lizzy mid-sentence while vigorously shaking his head in objection. "That is a very good point, Elizabeth, but it's not the only factor on which I have based my opinion. Wickham has committed numerous offences. My father saw us both through a private school. Our education was of utmost importance to him. I was being groomed to take over my father's business and Wickham was to enter the church. I knew that he was not a man of real character to assist in the church and before long it was of common knowledge."

"How is it that his choices affected you?" Lizzy queried, in hopes of better understanding the events leading to these feelings of bitterness.

"My father continued to provide for us after his death so long as we were bettering ourselves with higher education." He rolled his eyes as he took several long swallows from his wine glass. "Once Wickham stopped pursuing the church as a profession, the finances were cut off and he was forced to make other choices. He proposed learning the law. Wishing, rather than believing his determination and dedication to this newfound goal, I helped arrange the financing for it. This too, he did not follow through on. When it became clear that he was using my father's money to finance a lifestyle that was unbecoming, he was again cut off."

Lizzy was now completely enthralled by the story. It was so wild that it was almost too difficult to believe. Really, you only hear about situations like these in books or movies, she thought to herself. "And so then what happened?" she questioned.

"He became violent and abusive toward me and others. Shortly after this, all connections between us seemed to dissolve. From that day on, I don't know how he lived. Years went by and a few short months ago, I heard that he was back in Idaho. As a matter of fact, he came calling on my little sister. He has persuaded her to believe he is back with good intentions, but I suspect otherwise. She informed me just this week that she won't be coming home for the holiday and is spending it with him. I'm inclined to believe this is all part of some grand plan of his."

"What will you and Will be doing for Thanksgiving then?" she asked with great alarm.

"I haven't given it much thought, honestly."

"William, you must come and spend it with my family then. You simply must." Lizzy was happy to extend the invitation to the Darcys, for that is what she felt the holidays were all about, enjoying family. Before William could answer, their desserts had arrived.

As they quietly enjoyed the delectable treats, each was curious of how the evening's date might come to an end.

Circumstances being what they were, they quickly established that it would be best to hail a cab for Lizzy. After enjoying numerous glasses of wine this evening, neither of them should attempt to drive an automobile. As they walked side by side, William took her hand; their fingers intertwined. When they stopped, she said, "Thank you."

He made no reply, just moved closer to embrace her. His fingers danced over her spine and they were both excruciatingly aware of the sexual tension building between them. His hands now moved around to her front, resting his warm palms to her torso, his fingers falling just a few inches short of the underside of her breasts. He felt her quiver with his touch.

She enclosed herself into his warm embrace. Lizzy noticed his quick warm breath had turned hot as it beat against her neck. She could smell a mixture of his musky cologne and the wine they had for dinner. Slowly, her free hand found the nape of his neck and their eyes were drawn to one another. Hungrily she pulled him slowly toward her.

William's heat and hardness spoke for itself. His hand settled on her buttocks as he gazed at her with a tortured expression. His lips slowly met her mouth and he was no longer in control; light butterfly kisses quickly advanced to all seeking, fevered tongue battling quest. His hands came to either side of her face and he broke away. What was happening inside of him had almost robbed him completely of any desire to stop. He heard a soft moan escape her mouth.

Lizzy saw William's hand go up into the air briefly and then she closed her eyes to savor the moment. His random kisses left a trail of fire on her neck and along her jaw line. He quietly whispered in her ear with his raspy deep voice, "Good night, Elizabeth." One more, ever-so-gentle kiss was pressed upon her lips; then she reluctantly got into the taxi.

Chapter Nine

When Lizzy entered the Pendleton's pub and deli, she couldn't help but feel like an adolescent schoolgirl. Her dearest friend sat along the back wall holding a table for them. Within moments of their greeting each other and placing orders for their lunches, the conversation turned to men.

"William seems to be a pleasure," Charlotte offered.

"Yes, he's just that." Lizzy's cheeks flushed to a rosy pink.

"Have you two spoken since last weekend... since the KISS?" She asked this question playfully of her friend. Truth be known, Charlotte was very happy to see her friend so radiant.

"We talk every night on the phone. After he puts Will to bed, the evening's ours." As Lizzy took a sip of her espresso she found herself waiting curiously to hear her friend's reply.

"Have you made plans to see each other again?"

Lizzy waited to answer as her taste buds were savoring the delicious bite of turkey, cranberry, and cream cheese sandwich that had just been placed before her. "William has asked me to go away with him next weekend. And then the following Thursday is Thanksgiving. We will be traveling together to my parent's house for the holiday."

Charlotte had set down her fork and was now fidgeting with the napkin that lay in her lap. As a conservative person, several things went through the mind of her friend about her plans. I'm thrilled to see Lizzy in a relationship. She's sitting here across from me and she's simply glowing. I just think this is moving too fast though. Then again, we are very different people. Maybe I'm not being reasonable. Lizzy's a bright and sensible gal and she'll do the right thing. No... I still think this is out of character for her. Charlotte's thoughts went back and forth for a few moments before replying, "Lizzy, remember when you got a tattoo just out of high school?"

Lizzy laughed as she nodded her head.

"Remember when you told me you wanted to go to beauty school after you had earned your AA?"

Lizzy still smiling replied, "Yes I do and it was the right thing for me to do at the time."

"I think my point is that you have done some crazy things in your life, Liz. I know that it doesn't always make sense to me. I just pray that you know what you are doing now. I'd hate to see you do something you'll soon regret. This isn't just a relationship between two adults here; there is a small child involved too."

Lizzy was slightly annoyed by her friend's "insight" but she also knew that Charlotte did have her best interests in mind. Thinking for a moment, she replied, "I'm aware of that. I've given thought to the fact that we seem to be very comfortable together now. I know that until a week ago or so I thought of William as an ass." Lizzy paused while smugly grinning to herself. "I also know that feelings can change. You know, this is different; we feel like we know each other already. He's been best friends with Charlie and Jane for years and because of that, it has eliminated a lot of that "get to know one another" stage of dating. That awkwardness of when you first meet someone and are attempting to learn if they are a person of character and trustworthy is simply absent between us."

As she stared at the last of her chicken salad, Charlotte's mind worried for her friend. She was frightened of the momentum of this new relationship and skeptical of its possibilities to last. She had to admit to herself that she felt a pang of envy. Lizzy had always been one to act on things before thinking them through. Sometimes Charlotte found herself jealous of that trait. She set her mind on making a better effort to be supportive of this new relationship. "Do you know where he's taking you next weekend?"

"We're going to Seattle. I haven't been there in about a year so I'm looking forward to it. He must have something planned because he told me to bring clothing suitable for a formal night out." She took a few dollars out of her purse while still talking and set them on the table for the waitress' tip. "I can hardly wait. I guess we'd better get to shopping. I need you to help me find a dress to keep his eye on me," she said with a wink.



Ever since he'd leased an apartment, Georgie had heard little from George. At first this didn't trouble her because she understood that he was on a hectic schedule, working at his new job and moving. As the days stretched to a week, she became more fretful. Today she resolved to set aside her insecurities and stop in to see him during lunch.

Georgie found herself standing outside of the Mercantile building. Although she had passed this building many times in the last year while driving down Commerce, she hadn't realized how big the brick structure was. Standing at the ground floor looking up, she now felt intimidated by its magnitude. As she stepped into the lobby she saw a very large and open area with glistening water fountains. In the center of the enormous foyer were two clear capsule-shaped elevators, and just in front of those was a reception desk. Georgie walked over that way, and as she approached the counter the woman asked, "May I help you?"

"Yes. Will you please tell me on what floor I may find Mr. Wickham?"

"Mr. Wickham?" The receptionist questioned Georgie, clearly unfamiliar with the name.

"My friend works here, George Wickham. I'm here to meet him for lunch."

Georgie watched the young woman quickly enter some information into the computer where she sat. She'd paused only a moment to inquire on the spelling of George's last name and proceeded to do a little more research. As she turned her attention back to Georgie, she informed her, "I'm afraid he is not here."

Disappointed, she requested of the receptionist, "Will you please let him know that I stopped by then?"

"I don't think you understood me, miss. There's no one employed here under that name. I'm sorry."

Georgie shook her head in disbelief. She gazed at the lady on the other side of the counter in utter silence. All she could think of was how none of this made any sense to her.



William and Lizzy spent the day in Seattle. They drove to Pioneer Square and shopped the stores in the area. Lizzy was in awe of the craftsmanship of the old buildings lining the streets. They were enjoying the scenery and each other's company so much that they almost passed by the building that hosted Bill Speidel's Underground Tour. This was something that she had heard of but had never had the opportunity to do. They walked hand in hand to the ticket booth and then entered the nightclub where they were seated for the first portion of the tour.

While waiting for the tour to begin, William leaned in close to Lizzy and asked, "Do you know much about the history of underground Seattle?" All the while his eyes were flirting with hers.

"I know that a couple of men, Denny and Maynard, pioneered the development of Seattle."

William nodded his head in agreement and continued. "That is correct, Elizabeth. Of course there's a bit of humor to this story as well you know?"

Lizzy replied, "I know that a fire in the late 1800's destroyed much of the city. But I'm not sure that I know of anything that's humorous in the history." She wasn't sure whether there was indeed a funny element to this or if it was a pathetic attempt of humor by him.

"Really the story is quite hilarious. In the mid-1800s the "water closet" was introduced. During the next thirty years, indoor toilets became common, even for a small community such as Seattle. The problem with this was the proximity of the town to sea level. A couple of times a day when the tide would come in, the sewers backed up making all the toilets fountains." William was laughing at this point of the tale.

Before long, William's tale proved valid. For the first twenty minutes or so of the tour, the guide shared this humorous fact from the past. Soon they were descending to the infamous underground Seattle The musty scent tortured Lizzy's senses. Their journey through the narrow halls led them from building to building beneath street level. The sights were truly amazing. In some areas you could see the old storefronts, windows still intact, brick store fronts that were now dilapidate, and old wooded planks laid down as walkways that had clearly been replaced over the years. All were preserved at these depths. Periodically, there would be areas of glass panes in the ceiling which shed a little light into the poorly lit walkways. William watched Lizzy's bewilderment in amusement. It was clear she was genuinely interested in the tour and the history surrounding it.

At one point they were told that after the 'great fire,' it was decided to raise Seattle to avoid the problems they were experiencing with their plumbing. The fill was simply brought in and put around the existing buildings. As they proceeded with this plan, buildings that were once several stories tall were now only one or two, thus creating an underground. The buildings then had to be modified on the upper levels to allow a new street-level entrance. However, following the renovations to Pioneer Square, it fell victim to poverty and disrepair. What was once the heart of the city's industry was now Seattle's shame. In the 1900's the people petitioned to have Pioneer Square demolished and rebuilt, and luckily they were unsuccessful. This portion of Seattle was given landmark status from there, Seattle worked to clean up the area, transforming it into a vibrant area of shops, dining, and tours, all within walking distance of the famous Pike Street Market. As Lizzy realized the guide was finishing up the tour she felt disappointed. The tour ended in a gift shop next door to where the tour had started. In the back area of the shop there was a small museum of the history of the early Pioneer Square. Toward the front of the building were a variety of trinkets for sale, many punning on the history of the water closet.

Emerging once again on the streets, the daylight seemed bright and stung their eyes. Across the street was a café and espresso shop; both coffee drinkers, they headed that way.



Seattle's 5th Avenue Theatre would be a perfect setting for a very special date, he thought. The theater originally opened in 1926 as a vaudeville house and was designed in an Asian motif. The architecture and interior design were nothing short of stunning. William was confident that this setting that would lend to the romantic atmosphere.

They sat in silence as the last few words were belted out into the audience. Soon the curtain came down and the room was filled with applause. William turned to Lizzy and saw a tear in her eye. He was pleased because he knew that it was a tear of joy. Lizzy had confided earlier to him that she had never been to the musical Les Miserables. It was certainly one of his favorites. He was pleased to see that she enjoyed it as much as he had hoped.

They entered into the cold night's air to stroll back to their hotel. It was a beautiful, clear night. Not only were the stars glowing in the sky, sidewalks were lined with trees trimmed in white lights. The business of Seattle seemed to have quieted for the duration of their short meander. Lizzy stopped in front of a store's window, filled with gifts to remind people passing by that it was nearly Christmastime. William walked up behind her and then ever so gently enveloped himself around her. He noticed that the starlight kissed her brown hair, turning it ever so golden for a moment. Lightly William placed a kiss upon Lizzy's cheek. She placed her hand upon his arm and was content to feel his warmth through her clothes.

In just a few short blocks they found themselves back in front of their separate rooms in their hotel. William's eyes probed Lizzy in the little black number she was wearing. Without wanting to seem desperate and clingy, which was exactly how he felt, he leaned in and quietly invited her to join him in his room. It was plainly evident to Lizzy that this was an invitation to further physical intimacy. Before she could answer, she felt herself being pulled toward his door. William, impatient for a reply, had taken hold of each end of Lizzy's shawl and was leading her to his lair.

Her fragrance captured his senses as he caressed the side of her face. He smoothed his hands over her shoulders before his fingers glided down to the zipper of her dress and freed her. This sent currents of heat between two desperate parts of her body. Unable to endure the agony much longer, Lizzy found the buttons of his shirt. Removing it, her hands then ran down his ribs and settled in the hollow of his stomach. She sensed his need to be released him from his confines. Slowly she removed his belt and unbuttoned his trousers and guided them to the floor.

Within moments clothing was strewn about and they were reveling in temptation. Their lips became wet from kissing and their breaths had drawn hasty. He brushed his fingertips from her cheek, down her neck, and then caressed her breasts. William was amazed with his own feelings for Lizzy. Experiencing how intense the passion was between them he knew at that moment he was falling in love again.

As their foreplay turned into emotional torture, they broke apart. At the same time they both spoke.

"I love you, Elizabeth."

"William, we have to stop."

Neither of them positive of how to progress from here, silence once again filled the room. Lizzy was rattled by the words that William had said. Although she felt she held strong feelings for him as well, she was not prepared to hear that haunting phrase. Anxiety increased her doubts about their actions and that frightened her. She quickly gathered her own things and headed back to her own room. With her clothing in her arms, she stopped at the door connecting their rooms. Looking back at William, she said, "I'm sorry. I'll see you in the morning." With that she entered her own room and shut the door, leaving William in dismay.

Chapter Ten

It takes great courage to faithfully follow what we know to be true. —Sara E. Anderson

The morning came too soon for Lizzy. She had contemplated her relationship with William right up until breakfast. They decided to eat in the hotel restaurant, and upon viewing it, they felt pleased with their choice.

Lizzy already knew what she wanted for breakfast: French toast. Whenever she had the opportunity to have breakfast out, she always ordered the same thing. William pondered the menu and decided on the "all American breakfast." After the waiter took their orders, Lizzy broke the ice. "About last night, William..." She now hesitated.

Anxious to hear that Lizzy's actions last night weren't a complete rejection of their relationship, he said, "I know that you feel the same way for me, Elizabeth, as I do for you. But if I've pushed this relationship along too quickly for you, then I'm sorry. I'll wait for you." He was sincere, although his thoughts were on last night as they returned to their rooms. He recalled tugging on her shawl to persuade her to join him.

Lizzy was surprised by what she heard. All night she was emotionally tormented with her conflicted feelings. She feared that she wasn't much better off this morning. The riddle remained: heart versus the mind. Her only consolation was that the heart was winning. She felt the irony here as last night's predicament was her fault, yet William sat across from her apologizing.

Realizing that Lizzy was speechless, William reached across the table and cupped her hands. As he touched her silky smooth skin, he felt her body temperature rise. Openly and honestly, while looking her straight in the eye, he proclaimed, "You are worth the wait!"

She felt her cheeks redden and broke eye contact with him. She only realized that she had tried to pull her hands away from him as he grasped them tighter. Looking back into his deep brown eyes, she silently prayed to God to give her some strength and guidance.



Will's puppy jumped up from the floor next to William's chair and sprinted to the front door. The dog was growling and barking ferociously to warn of a visitor. William wondered who would be coming down the drive at this hour. He set down Monday's newspaper and walked over to the bay window. As he saw Georgie walking up to the door, he was completely taken by surprise.

William hurried to the door. Georgie took hold of him as if holding on for dear life. He assumed that this hug was her way of telling him she was home for the holiday.

After several silent moments, William retreated from his sister's arms. "I didn't expect you."

"After my last class this afternoon, I just got into my car and drove." She replied with an exhausted look.

His eyes sought those of his sibling's. He noticed her face was pale and a hand was propped against her stomach; there was no mistaking the sadness in her red-rimmed eyes. As his concern for her was of foremost importance, he asked, "Would you like to talk?"

She drew in a deep and tattered breath. Silence was rife with vexation before she finally whispered, "I'm so exhausted and tired. I really just want to take a bath and get some rest. Can we talk about this later?"

"Of course we can. You go draw a bath and I'll get your bags out of the car for you."

"Great." As Georgie turned back toward the hallway leading to the bathroom, the phone rang. "Hello."

"Hello?" Lizzy tried not to sound surprised to hear a woman's voice on the other end of the line. "Is William there?"

"Yes, let me get him for you. Just a minute..."

While Lizzy waited, guilt wreaked havoc with her conscience. What in the hell are you doing here, Lizzy? You need to make up your mind very soon. This is just agonizing us both.

"Hello Elizabeth."

As she heard his deep, ragged voice, her insides seemed to turn to pottage. She weakly replied, "Hi. How are you?"

"Well, I'm fine now," he said with a devilish grin.

She felt so much better now that she was speaking with him. She had really worried that this conversation would be awkward. Taking a deep breath she felt a great sense of relief. "I'm glad to hear that. Should I call back? It sounds as though you have company."

"No need to, it's Georgiana." He walked over and sat on the couch. "She pulled in just a few minutes ago."

"I thought she said she wasn't coming for the holiday?" Lizzy inquired.

"She did say that, but something has changed her mind." As he said this to Lizzy, he wished he knew the answer himself, although he feared he already did. "I have a feeling it has something to do with Wickham and that can't be a good thing."

On impulse, Lizzy nervously questioned "Are you planning to have Thanksgiving at your home after all?" What was only a brief silence on the other end of the line seemed like eternity as she waited for a reply.

"I was looking forward to meeting your family this week, Elizabeth."

As she exhaled, she realized she had been holding her breath for his response. Comforted by his reply, she remarked, "What's one more mouth to feed? You must bring your sister along."

"Are you sure? We don't want to impose."

"I'm positive."

"Well, then, it's settled, we'll see you on Wednesday."

"Wonderful! I'll let you go so that you can visit with your sister."

"Good night, Elizabeth." William wanted to express more of his feelings to her, but after this weekend he felt he should be more reserved for the time being.

"Good night, William. I'll see you in a couple of days."



William had won her father's approval the moment Mr. Bennet laid eyes on his Ford truck. Lizzy found it ludicrous the way her father evaluated who was good enough to truly befriend his daughters.

As they entered the Bennet's home, William and Georgie were included in the greetings and family hugs. As the introduction came to an end, mulled cider was offered to all by Mrs. Bennet. Lizzy was immediately summoned to the kitchen to help. "Lizzy, I know that you said the Darcys would be joining us, dear, but where are Jane and Charlie?"

Raising an eyebrow, Lizzy answered, "They were leaving a few hours later. Remember, Mom, Jane was having her ultrasound this afternoon." As she was reminding her mother of the doctor's appointment, she felt a twinge of guilt. She knew she had not made it clear about her relationship with Mr. Darcy and wasn't sure she was ready to.

"I'm pleased that they are able to join us for the holidays, dear. Soon I'll get to meet Will that Jane speaks so much about. I saw that he was sleeping." She paused for a few a deep breaths, she continued. "You know I think it is about time that she's working on raising a family of her own though. It's not like she's this boy's mother. Of course you know our Jane; she truly does have a heart of gold when it comes to doing for others."

It was times such as these that Lizzy bit her tongue to refrain from giving her mother a sound lashing. Mrs. Bennet was a very narrow-minded and non-constructive person who didn't believe in censoring anything she said. Often times Lizzy wondered why her father stayed with her for so many years. Lizzy simply nodded her head and grasped three mugs of cider to escape back to the family room.

Upon entering she was tickled to see Lydia and Georgie deep in friendly conversation. They were about the same age and both college students. Relief washed over Lizzy that the Darcys seemed to be comfortable here. She wandered over to William and her father who were standing by the fireplace. Raising the mugs higher in the air, she asked, "Who would like cider?"

Both her father and William reached over to take a mug from her. Simultaneously they both replied, "Thank you."

Lizzy could hear the high-pitched shrill of her mother now offering mugs to Lydia and Georgie on the other side of the room. As she looked back over her shoulder, she saw Mrs. Bennet seat herself next to them. Focusing back to the men in front of her she tried to join in on the conversation. Listening for a moment she quickly became mortified, appalled, and embarrassed. She was realizing that her father had inquired about "Mrs. Darcy." Jumping right in to the conversations, she asked, "Father, I'm going to take a walk with William. We've been cooped up for the long drive and we really need to stretch our legs."

William looked at Lizzy in surprise. The ground was white with snow and it was freezing outside. Of course, if this meant he could have a moment alone with her though, he was certainly game. "I guess I'll need my coat again, Elizabeth."

Touching her father's arm, she said, "Will's asleep on the couch and Georgie is over there with mom if he wakes up." She wasn't sure why she felt compelled to explain that to her father, for she knew that when they left to go outside her father would retreat to his den where he spent much of his time. Turning to William, she invited him to follow her. They ambled toward the front door where the coat tree held their jackets. They bundled up and stepped outside.

Outside, their breath lingered in the cold air, and William could hear the snow crunching like egg shells under foot. They walked into the distance without speaking. Before long he could see a bench in a remote area of the property and assumed that it was their destination.

Once they were out of sight from the house, Lizzy reached over and laced her fingers between William's. They continued to walk hand-in-hand until they approached the bench. In two long stroking movements, Lizzy cleared the bench of snow and they both sat down. Lizzy turned to face William and all she could think to say was, "I'm sorry. I'm afraid my father isn't fully aware of your situation. He really didn't mean to ask anything of you that was inappropriate." Her stare had moved to the ground as she was apologizing.

There was a change in William's demeanor. He lightly touched her chin and guided it upward. Quietly, almost as if sharing a secret, he explained, "I regretted the loss of Anna. I couldn't imagine a life without her. It's the most horrible thing that has happened in my life. I lost both of my parents when I was fairly young. I think that as children we know that at some grave moment we may be forced to part from them. While that doesn't make it any easier, it's a fact of life." He paused for a moment searching for the words to express the rest of his thoughts. "When you meet your life partner, you take that at face value that it will be for life. Her time came too soon. I've spent the last few years in mourning." Another awkward silence fell upon William, where he removed his hand from Lizzy's chin and seemed to be taking stock in their surroundings. After exhaling deeply, which appeared to release an enormous amount of tension from William's shoulders, and he continued. "Until you came into my life this summer, I thought I'd be a lonely man for the rest of my life. I wasn't looking for a relationship much less to find such strong feelings for another woman." He had spoken softly and chosen his words wisely and with intent. Now he hoped that by opening his heart to Lizzy, she would feel like she could divulge more to him as well. He waited for her to speak while gazing intently into her big brown eyes.

Tears were threatening to flood Lizzy's eyes as she sat across from William and listened to him speak. She recalled something from just three months ago, at Will's birthday party. She and William had not gotten along and she had been highly judgmental of him. She vividly remembered a conversation during their camping trip when Jane had reminded her that things aren't always as they seem. She felt humbled now, sitting here a few months later confused by her attraction to him. She knew that she was falling in love with him. However, the larger question remained in her mind; will he still accept me after he finds out about my past? All she felt she could do was to wrap her arms around him and comfort him in a moment of embrace. She held him for a short time hoping that the unsaid would speak louder than any words she could utter.

As they reluctantly loosened their hold, she confided, "I need to share something with you, but now is not the time."

Those few words were like music to William's ears. Pleased with her step forward, he leaned back in and replied, "I'm here to listen whenever you need me." With that he calmly and ever so gently, placed a kiss upon Lizzy's soft lips.



The next morning was Thanksgiving. The whole family was together. Jane and Charlie had arrived late in the evening so this morning all the sisters were together again. As they all took turns sharing the one bathroom in the house, Lizzy and Jane were able to speak privately. Jane was so full of excitement she thought she was going to burst. She quickly handed several pieces of thin paper to Lizzy and declared, "It's a boy!"

Lizzy quickly realized that these pictures were of Jane's ultrasound and she couldn't help but let out a squeal in delight. "Look at this, Jane."

Jane had the images memorized by now. "Isn't it really something else? They said everything is fine and my due date is right on schedule."

"Oh Jane! This is so wonderful!" Lizzy hugged her sister in celebration of the exciting news.

Once they separated, Jane looked down at her newly forming belly. As she lifted her shirt up over her waistline, Lizzy could see it the need for Jane to go shopping for maternity clothes.

As the day progressed, the house became full with good family, friends, and food. The Darcys, who had stayed in town the night before at The Riverhouse, had now rejoined the celebration. The Gardiners arrived shortly thereafter and, in no time, family and guests were seated around the dinner table giving thanks. Other than the fact that little Will refused to eat a bite, dinner was a delight. And even though Will was certainly being a handful, William found a few moments where he was able to touch Lizzy's hand under the table.

After dinner, when it was time to clear the table, all the ladies turned their attentions to Lizzy. She treasured this time of the evening when she came to her parent's home for a visit. While her sisters cleared the table and tended to the dishes, Lizzy played hairdresser. This was her special one-on-one time with each member in the family.

Soon the evening had set in, and the time when they had to leave had come too quickly for Lizzy. She didn't get a chance to see her aunt and uncle as often as she would like through the year so parting on the holiday she found difficult. She bid them farewell until Christmas and waved out the window as William's truck left the driveway.

Chapter Eleven

The modest tattoo on the small of her back was a name and a reminder of her youthful ignorance. She couldn't believe her good fortune that night in Seattle. In the heat of the moment she had let the thought of it slip her mind. She could hardly imagine William's reaction if he had seen it.

For a moment, her thoughts drifted back to the time she was working on an Associate in Arts at the community college. He was a professor; however, Lizzy had met him off campus. What started as a casual friendship progressed to an engagement within a few years.

She could now admit that the circumstance leading to their relationship was wrong but, at the time, no one could have reasoned with her. Their romance had built steadily for two years until they finally moved in together.

The Bennet's had met him on many occasions and, although they were ignorant of the fact that the couple was living together, they always seemed impressed with his intelligence and impeccable good manners. After all that had happened, it was difficult to admit, but she had really loved him. So much so that she had had his name inked on her skin.

He was her first in many ways. The first man she had given herself wholly to, the first person she had ever cohabitated with, the first person she had ever been engaged to, and the first man she ever loved. Unexpectedly he was also the first man to break her heart.

As they were planning to wed, Lizzy knew something was not right. She could see it in his eyes. He was missing something in his life. And this is what ended up bringing such sadness to Lizzy. They deliberated over their dilemma for months before their relationship came to an end. Lizzy was left feeling empty, saddened, and with the thought of being a failure which left her terrified.

He left her to confer himself to the church. Becoming a servant of the Lord would consume his entire life leaving no time for a family with Elizabeth, or so he sought to convince her. She was left little when this relationship came to an end, but one permanent reminder remained: a tattoo, one with the name 'William'.

Since her engagement to William, Lizzy was conscious of the fact that she had not successfully maintained another long term relationship. Part of that was by choice and the other part was out of fear. However, on this drive back from her parent's home, she thought about him and it was without pain. What brought these thoughts of William to her mind was the man sitting next to her. On her mind was the question; when should I enlighten William Darcy of my past?



After a long Thanksgiving Day, Lizzy finally found herself collapsing onto Jane's guest room bed. She rode home with William late in the afternoon to get her car, which she had left at his home, then drove to Jane's. Now she found herself exhausted from their travels. Tomorrow she planned to start Christmas shopping, which had long become tradition for her and her sister the day after the holiday. Lizzy felt that, with a good night's sleep, she could be in power-shopper mode by the morning.

Drifting off, she began dreaming of a half-clad Mr. Darcy when the phone rang and woke everyone in the household. Lizzy put on her bathrobe and went to the living room to find out who had the pertinence to call in the middle of the night. Jane had answered the phone. Listening to her speak was frustrating, as she found that she was only privy to one side of the conversation.

"Hello." Jane groggily said into the receiver.

"What? How high? Did you give him Motrin or Tylenol yet? Oh and are there any other symptoms?"

"How long has it been? Have you called the doctor's office yet?"

"What... the emergency room? Do you want me to meet you there, William?"

"William, you or Georgie need to give me a call as soon as you find out something. Good luck and give little Will a kiss for me." With that Jane set down the phone.

She looked across the living room speechless. After a moment passed, Jane finally spoke to Charlie and Lizzy, who were surrounding her in concern.

"William and Georgie are on their way to the emergency room with Will. He has been running a fever most of the day, which is probably why he didn't have much of an appetite earlier. Because they can't get the fever to come down and Will has been refusing solids and liquids for the most part, they're going to have him checked out at the hospital. William said something about the doctors checking for possibilities of meningitis and taking steps to prevent dehydration." As Jane shared the news, she had one hand upon her swollen tummy and the other stoking the back of her neck. This was something she always did when she was stressed about something. She continued, "One of them will call when they have some news."

"Could this affect his asthma, Jane?" Lizzy grilled with great anxiety.

"Well, in the past, his asthma was a concern with all colds. I guess it depends on what they find wrong with him at the hospital tonight." Jane replied.

"It looks like we'll be up for a little while, ladies. I'll make some coffee or hot chocolate to drink," Charlie said as he made his way through the living room and disappeared into the kitchen.

Lizzy and Jane made themselves comfortable in the living room, sitting across from each other, thinking about the Darcys. The silence was of a short duration as Lizzy caringly said, "I'm glad that Georgie hadn't left yet. At least William has someone with him tonight."

Jane was nodding in response to the comment. "I offered to go meet him there but he insisted that I stay here. I'm not sure what the difference is because I'm certainly not going to be able to sleep until I know Will's fine."

Charlie returned juggling three mugs, which he distributed to Lizzy and Jane, and then sat down to join them. In an attempt to make conversation, he asked, "So, Lizzy, how involved are you and William?"

Lizzy felt uncomfortable at the forwardness of her brother-in-law's question. Reflecting fleetingly on the brief intimacy she and William had shared, Lizzy definitely felt ill prepared to answer questions about their relationship, even with his best friend and her sister. Guardedly choosing her words, she replied with a raised eyebrow, "What has William told you about us?"

"You answer my question with another question?" Charlie taunted her while grinning broadly. "We know," he continued while glancing over to Jane and then back to Lizzy, "that you two have been seeing a lot of each other lately."

As if on cue, Jane joined in with her husband's teasing banter. "What exactly should I have told mother when she asked if there was something between you and Mr. Darcy?"

While she knew that Jane and Charlie were simply having fun with her, the question struck a chord deep within Lizzy. Trying to keep the apprehensiveness from showing in her voice, Lizzy lightly tossed it back at her sister. "Mom didn't really ask about the two of us, did she?"

"Oh, she most certainly did," Jane assured her. "She seemed to be receptive to the idea that you are dating again."

Lizzy sat in astonishment, looking at her sister nodding her head to confirm what she had said about their mother. Before Lizzy could get that Jane disclose the contents of the entire discussion she shared with their mother, the phone rang again. This quickly brought them all back to the reason they were up at this untimely hour. Charlie was the closest to the telephone so he was the one to answer. "How is Will doing?"

"Charlie? This is Georgie. They are still in the emergency room but things are looking better. They have eliminated meningitis. It looks like it may just be chicken pox."

"Chicken pox? What a relief to hear that. So everything's just fine." Charlie let out a deep breath.

"Well, yes and no," Georgie replied. "Charlie, William and I have never had chicken pox before. The doctors are saying that we should not be around Will for possibly a week. I go back to school this weekend, but William isn't..."

Charlie interrupted, "That's not a problem. Jane and I have already had chicken pox, so just pack up some of his things and he can stay with us for the week."

"It isn't that simple. William asked about Jane and the doctor says that, even if Jane is vaccinated, now that she's pregnant she shouldn't be around Will." She paused for a moment in uncertainty before continuing, "I'm not quite sure what William is planning to do. He'll call you back when he has time, Charlie."

"Thanks for calling. We'll wait to hear from him when he knows more. Hang in there, Georgie."

As he set down the phone he turned back to the ladies in the living room. He knew that they were not abreast of the entire conversation and was not surprised to hear Jane ask when Will would be coming over. But after Charlie explained why this could not be, Jane quickly appointed her sister to the task. "Lizzy, you can take care of Will and, before you say 'no,' let me assure you that Charlie will be there to help."

Lizzy stood before Jane utterly flabbergasted. Once her thoughts and emotions connected she began shaking her head and muttering simultaneously, "Oh no, oh no, no, no, no Jane."

Jane moved across the room to her sister and gently took her hands into her own. She looked Lizzy straight in the eyes and assured her that this was the only possible solution.

By morning Lizzy found herself settled in William's home. Charlie had brought Lizzy out to the house while William and Jane remained at the Bingley's. She found little Will sleeping soundly from the Tylenol and Motrin that had been prescribed for his fever. This all seemed very strange to Lizzy.

Nonetheless, soon she would be here alone to take care of Will. She was uncertain whether she was up to the task.



The week after Thanksgiving seemed to fly by too rapidly for Lizzy. She had called in to work and taken a week's vacation to stay with Will. Charlie had come out every other night with food and gave Lizzy a break. Will's pox had finally broke and were starting to heal. Once all the sores were scabbed over, she knew he would no longer be contagious. While he continued to run a temperature, Lizzy learned how resilient children really were. Bless his little heart, she thought, he hardly lets his discomfort slow him down.

Two things had happened during the week—actually the last day she was there—that stood out in her thoughts. The first was decorating William's home for Christmas. In the evenings she spoke regularly with William. Although they both looked forward to that time with each other, Lizzy couldn't miss the sadness in William's voice. Being separated from his son was extremely distressing for him. So Lizzy thought she might try decorating his home a little for the holiday to spread some early Christmas cheer, even though Jane had told her that William hadn't decorated for any holiday since Anna died.

After giving this some thought, Lizzy decided to venture outside and collect things of nature to decorate with, things that were right on his property. Randy, the ranch hand, helped Lizzy locate some large pruning shears and then she set off to roam the property. She found an abundance of greenery that she clipped from low branches of the fir trees. Lying on the ground she had found more pinecones than she would ever need. And along her journey she also came upon a holly berry tree. What had started out as a crazy idea to modestly decorate quickly grew to a day-long project. Lizzy tied boughs of greens along the porch rails on the outside of his home. On the inside she did the same over the wood mantle above the stone fireplace. There she also tucked in the holly berries and laid pinecones sporadically about. She then went looking for a couple of metal coat hangers and was lucky enough to find some in the upstairs guest room closet. She used them as a frame for the wreaths she made with the unused greenery. She made one large wreath to hang on the front door and two small ones for the coffee table and kitchen table.

While cleaning up after this decorating frenzy, she grabbed a few bowls from the kitchen and filled them with the leftover pinecones and set them about the living room. She was very pleased with the job she had done decorating, but it still lacked a Christmas tree. As she admired her work there was a loud banging on the front door. She opened the door to Randy, who was standing before her with a smile on his face, a tree stand in one hand and a saw in the other. He had found the stand in storage and asked her if she would like help cutting and hauling in a tree. Lizzy was so thrilled to get this final detail in place that she flipped her arms around his neck and gave him a quick hug.

The second little wonder this week was just Will himself. After Lizzy and Randy had brought in a tree, she and Will popped some popcorn and strung it to use as garland. Jane sent over some colorful tree lights with Charlie, she and little Will worked diligently to decorate the tree. When they were finished, Lizzy thought how dismal it looked with only lights and popcorn, but Will it differently. He saw it through a child's eyes. Will climbed up into her lap and for a quiet moment they sat in an embrace, starring at the tree. Will grinned from ear to ear and just kept calling off the colors of the lights. After he listed the pattern of colors on the light string a dozen times or so, he turned slightly in her lap and gave Lizzy a tight squeeze. As she hugged the child back, she had no idea what was going to happen next. She had no idea that the three little words that little Will was about to utter to her would be something she would cherish the rest of her life. She had never expected to hear, "Thank you, mama."

Chapter Twelve

This weekend's trip to Las Vegas had Lizzy feeling keyed up. Having never flown before, she was a bit nervous sitting in the lobby at the airport. She was about to meet some of the most famous people in her industry; Robert Cromeans was her professional idol. Most people would know him from the Paul Mitchell ads he had done in the past. In another twenty-four hours, she hoped to meet him. This was another part of her job that she loved. As an instructor, she was required to supplement her credentials with twenty-four hours of extra training every two years. Until now she had always attended Hair Shows closer to home, but when an opportunity for a trip to Las Vegas arose, she simply couldn't resist.

Other passengers surrounded her and she noticed most of them seemed calm. This was a far cry from her emotions. The excitement and hope she experienced for her pending trip was exhilarating. She came in two hours early and checked in her bags. Bringing her haircutting scissors and implements for the 'hands-on classes' she was taking at the Hair Show and trying to explain to the airline why it was necessary for her to travel with them was a feat in itself. She had to show the airline her license to practice and at last they allowed them to be transferred from her purse and stored in her suitcase, which would be stockpiled below the plane.

After that fiasco she tried to find her boarding gate. Simply getting to the boarding area was a chore in itself. Lizzy came upon the security machines and stood in line with the other passengers. When it was her turn, she put her purse and coat on the belt that fed the items into the X-ray machine. Once through the metal detector, she was told to remove her shoes by the attendant on the other side. Finally after full inspection of her personal property and clothing she was wished a safe trip.

With a glance at her watch, she realized that the plane did not board for another forty-five minutes. Deciding to leave the boarding gate in search of an espresso stand, she found one quickly and ordered a double mocha latte. As soon as her order came out of her mouth, she inwardly smiled, remembering that it was William's favorite too. Other than this trip, she looked forward to nothing more than seeing him again. All week at work, she found herself wishing she were back in New Meadows. She loved her week off caring for Will. She loved the look on William's face when he'd come home to his son and her. She loved how astonished and appreciative he was about her little Christmas surprise. She knew that she loved him.

Reliving her unforgettable time with the Darcys nearly caused her to miss the plane, as she had virtually tuned out the monotonous, public address system's constant reminders, until the final minutes, when a child's crying finally brought her back to reality. Even though no one was closing the jet-way doors yet, she grabbed her handbag and backpack and sprinted to board the plane. As she entered the plane and turned down the aisle, she noticed seating on each side of her and held up her ticket to check for her seat: C3. She searched for that number but couldn't find it. Taking a few more steps she entered a new section of the plane. What seemed to be adequate seating with a decent amount of room had suddenly changed to three seats on each side of the aisle. These seats were much closer together and much less inviting. Blushing a bit in ignorance, she became conscious that the front seating must have been first class. This flight was paid for by the school, with a nod of her head, of course they wouldn't pay for a first class.

Finding her place, she put her carry on in the overhead storage and then took her seat. Once buckled in, she grabbed her rather worn copy of Bridget Jones out of her purse. Opening it at the bookmark, she picked up where she had left off. Lizzy always found reading a relaxing hobby.

She was interrupted about twenty pages later by a flight attendant who confirmed her ticket. Lizzy dug it out of her purse and got that formality out of the way. Focusing her attentions back to her book, she barely noticed the empty seat next to her being filled. The new chapter read ~

OCTOBER - DATE WITH DARCY

Other than Lizzy feeling an uncanny resemblance with Bridget's character in this book, she also felt the irony of Bridget's boyfriend being a gentleman by the name of Mr. Darcy. Her thoughts drifted to William so vividly this time, she swore she could even smell his cologne.

"Excuse me, Miss. Do you have dinner plans for tonight?"

Oh, no, now I'm even hearing his voice. Looking over to the next seat to see if, in fact, someone was trying to pick her up or she was hearing voices, she found herself staring at William. Lizzy was speechless.

William enjoyed this far more than he should, leaning in and whispering, "You aren't the only one full of surprises, Elizabeth."



She could hardly believe that William had arranged to be in an adjacent room and planned on taking her to dinner tonight. Lizzy stood at the mirror in the bathroom checking her appearance. Picking up the tube of lipstick, she applied it liberally. She was dressed casually as she was informed that they were to be eating peasant style. She could hardly imagine what fascinations the city held, for this was her first visit to the 'city that never sleeps.'

William was prompt. From the Tropicana, where they were staying, it was only a short walk to their destination at the Excalibur. Lizzy was amazed at all of the hotels and casinos. Each had their own themes, decorations, and special attractions. As they made their way through the crowds, Lizzy noticed the overwhelming smell of cigarettes, cigars, and pipes. William seemed oblivious to the heinous odors and forged up to the ticket booth for the "Tournament of Kings."

As they walked away from the counter William said, "Looks like we have about an hour before they will start seating guests. How about we try our luck?"

Lizzy was excited to give it a try. "After you!"

Holding hands to avoid being separated in the thick of the crowds, William stopped a cash cart. Lizzy saw him hand the lady a one hundred dollar bill and ask for silver dollars. She counted them out into a cup, which she then handed over to him. William grabbed another empty cup and dumped about half of the coins into it and then gave it to Lizzy with a smile.

Within about ten paces they were in front of the dollar slots. William slid a few coins in and pulled the handle. Lizzy followed suit with the neighboring machine. A young woman in a serving wench's costume, whose bosoms overflowed the bodice, approached them to take their drink order, but she was mainly focused on William, who ordered a martini, while Lizzy opted for a Fuzzy Navel. When she tried to pay for their drinks, she learned that were complimentary. They invite people into their casinos, they have no clocks or windows so that the gamblers easily lose track of time, and they provide them with an endless supply of alcohol. This certainly is a recipe for bad news. Looking at her cup of money, she vowed only to gamble this and then be done with it.

Lizzy lost thirty-five dollars before the waitress returned with their drinks. She decided to take a moment and see how William was doing. Nosily glancing into his cup she found it full. *He seems to be doing pretty well.* Lizzy moved closer to William and rubbed elbows with him. "For luck," she said with a smile and wink. Returning to her machine she put a handful of dollars in. Before she could see the fruit on the screen, the light at the top of her slot was flashing. Clank, clank, clank, clink, clank... This noise went on for the better part of five minutes. Three thousand coins later Lizzy had the undivided attention of most of the surrounding gamblers.



A man no more than waist high came cart-wheeling out from backstage into the huge arena. He was vibrantly dressed in velour knickers, top and tights. His jester's hat was adorned with bells that jingled with every movement. Acting as an entertainer for a medieval king, he dashed around the rink addressing all of the ticket holders.

They have done a fabulous job setting this atmosphere, Lizzy thought. After they had exchanged her coins for paper money, they were seated for the show. Entering the theatre, the centre attraction was the oval-shaped showground, on ground level. The seating was similar to an arena. Colorful flags marked four distinct areas of seating. As they were escorted to their seats, Lizzy recognized a stage at a narrow end of the arena. Unlike movie theatres, each row of seating also had long banquet tables running the full length from aisle to aisle.

"Tables?" she questioned with a puzzled look.

"For dinner."

Shortly before the jester had appeared, 'peasants' came around and took orders. William took the liberty of ordering them both another drink. Sipping on her peach flavored orange juice and enjoying the show, she was startled when a 'peasant' dropped a heavy pewter stein and plate full of food on the table before her.

Before she could ask for a set of cutlery, William motioned with exaggerated movements, picking up the Cornish game hen and eating it with his hands. She glanced around her to find everyone was without silverware. With an amused chuckle, she dug in. As delicious as the victuals were, she was thankful in the end that they were each provided wet towelettes to clean up.

The tables were cleared as the show drew near its end. Lizzy couldn't deny the effect she was feeling from the alcohol. The knights solicited the crowd's participation toward the end of the show, which Lizzy learned was why they were seated in groups, and she found herself bellowing along with the others when encouraged.

The show culminated with the knights on horseback, engaging in a jousting tournament. As it was quite a production, the lights brightened around the arena, and the actors came out for their applause.



The butterflies in Lizzy's stomach drowned in the liquor she consumed. The kiss was supposed to be a brief one at his door but soon she found them swaying in unison to his bed. Closing their embrace, he fell to his back, taking her with him, and she felt uninhibited, kissing him over and over, feeling very much alive and feminine. Finding herself lying entangled in William's muscular arms on his bed, she wanted nothing more at this moment than him.

As Lizzy realized William's compromised position she sat up and straddled him. Looking down into his deep brown eyes, she knew what was about to happen. They both knew that they were about to make love for the first time. Seductively, she started unbuckling his belt while asking him, "Do you have protection?"

Without a word, he reached into the nightstand drawer to grab one and felt that velvet box he had so carefully placed there earlier. The ring... he'd purchased an engagement ring, with every intention of asking Lizzy to marry him this weekend. This is not the romantic setting I had in mind for our engagement. Succumbing to the fact that he could not contain his libido any longer, he decided to show her his intentions before they made love.

"I need to sit up for a minute," he said softly.

Puzzled by the obvious change in his desire, she swung one leg off of him and was now sitting beside him. He sat up and faced her, reaching to cradle her hands, he could hear the beating of his heart so clearly that he wondered if she could too.

"Elizabeth, I love you."

Lizzy had heard him say this to her before and knew that she shared the same feelings for him; however, this wasn't something she had verbalized until now.

"William, I love you too."

"Since you have entered my life, I have felt whole again. Every moment I have with you I cherish and I hope you feel the same way for me." Pausing a moment before continuing, he noticed that his hands were growing clammy. Looking into her eyes he continued, "I know you have been hurt in the past... You can trust me Elizabeth. I promise never to hurt you." A moment passed in silence. He noticed her eyes becoming teary. Looking down at her hands, he lightly grazed them with his lips and then turned back toward the nightstand.

The velvet box that he produced was the last thing she expected. A haze seemed to have settled around her and she barely heard the words he spoke. She didn't need to hear him say the so-called 'magic words' because she knew his intent. The tears welled up in her eyes and were falling freely. Unable to open the box, she pushed it back to him. "We need to talk."

He pressed one forefinger upon her lips. "If you have any feelings for me, then you'll stop."

She sniffed once and wiped beneath her eyes. "There are things you should know..."

The rush of his pulse seemed to flutter in the air around him. "Honestly, I can't imagine anything that you could tell me about your past that would change my feelings for you." Pausing, he studied her downcast face, her eyes that refused to meet his. "I want us to spend the rest of our lives learning about one another."

She clamped her upper lip between her teeth. Her heavy heart needed something, something she couldn't quite put into words. His question of marriage was a reminder that rekindled grief. She recognized that her feelings were not of William Collins, but that of vulnerability, even after all this time. To love William Darcy, which she did without doubt, meant she would open herself to the risk of being hurt again.

A quiet moment lingered before he reached over, touching her with unmistakable tenderness. Arousal was obvious when her throat let out a sound of passion. He leaned in and his lips covered hers. Her mouth opened and their tongues interlocked with greed and hunger. Amazing things were happening inside her until she pulled her head back sharply and gasped for air.

"Make love to me," she begged.

Hastily he slipped a hand in at the waist of her shirt and learned the feel of her ribs. He pushed Lizzy back down on the bed, leaning over her while bearing his own weight as his mouth chased hers. His hand beneath her shirt was now stroking her breast through the fabric of her brassiere. She rested her forehead against the top of his head while trying to swallow the lump in her throat.

Their eyes met, but his were only deep shadows that searched her face. She felt his tug on her shirt and let herself go limp as he removed her top. Twisting to a sitting position above her, he removed his own. Lying back down, their bodies were pressed together with warmth and firmness. She responded with the next movement until she felt his hips and loins pressed firmly against her, yet confined by the clothing that remained. Their kisses lost all tentativeness and seemed to be that of tongues and murmurs.

His palms moved down her curves to her hips and then he broke from her. As he lifted himself once more she felt deprived at the loss of his burning lips. Inching down with ease, William removed her jeans, tossing them upon the floor. Sitting up, she unbuttoned his pants. Sliding her hands under the waistband of his trunks, against the skin of his buttocks, she found the firmness beneath her palms inviting. After a long moment of tender caresses he slowly moved to the edge of the bed and pulled off his garments. Reaching out to caress him seemed to be the most natural thing in the world to her. He was so handsome.

He lifted a hand to her shoulder and pulled down the strap of her bra, starting there he kissed her to the band beneath her breasts. His finger idled on the opposite strap. Her eyes closed as her head dropped backward and rolled to one side while his callused fingers removed the lacy undergarment. His hand now ran a path between her breasts down her stomach to the satin strap that covered her forbidden triangle. Lifting her head she found him watching her. A charming lopsided grin bent the corners of his mouth.

She trembled as he pressed her back against the bed. The desire she felt welled and bubbled over inside her. When it had grown to its fullest, she offered herself fully to him.

 Chapter Thirteen

Some things... arrive in their own mysterious hour, on their own terms and not yours, to be seized or relinquished forever.  -Gail Goodwin

Exhausted from the trip, it took every last once of her strength just to haul the luggage into her apartment. Opening the door, her cat greeted her. “Meow, Meow, Meeeoooow.” Lizzy snickered; she always enjoyed that little attribute; Lenore was a talker. Setting down her bags, she bent down and stroked the cat a couple of times. The cat gripped the carpet with her claws in joy and started purring. Lizzy stood up and let out a huff as the phone started ringing. She had hoped to have a quiet evening before going to bed. Resolving to let the machine pick it up, she decided she would deal with `life' tomorrow. No sooner than she plopped down on her couch, did she hear her mother's whiny voice carry through the apartment. “Lizzy dear, call me when you get home. I simply won't rest until I know you have made it back safely.”

Reaching over to the end table, she picked up the cordless phone from its charging base and answered, “Hello mother.”

“Oh good, you're home!”

“Yes, I just made it home and am I ready for bed.”

“How was your trip?”

“It was awesome!” The corners of Lizzy's lips curled up to a smile before continuing. “My days were packed with all the Hair show stuff; we actually toured the Robert Cromeans Salon in Mandalay Bay. It's quite pretentious. And the nights were filled with site seeing.”

“It sounds like you enjoyed your trip; you didn't get carried away gambling did you?”

Re-energizing a bit with the conversation, Lizzy replied, “I did just fine.” She stifled a giggle with the thought,like I'm going to tell her I won three thousand dollars. “We didn't just go to gamble you know. William and I went to a show at the Excalibur, oh and a murder mystery dinner and show his cousin works at. He's the host and plays a colonel, which was on the second night…”

“William?” Mrs. Bennet huffed in a panic.

“Yes mother, William. His cousin lives there and so he made the trip too.”

“I suppose that you had no idea that he was going?”

“Actually, no I didn't. But what does that really matter?”

“Well, how should I put this? Your father and I are glad to see that you are warming up a bit to the idea of dating again, but really Lizzy, why waste your time on Mr. Darcy, especially since there won't be a happy ending!”

Upset by her mother's comment, Lizzy fired back, “What exactly is that suppose to mean?”

“Well, you know dear.”

“No, I'm afraid I don't know what it is you are implying.”

“Well… he's been married before!”

“Yeah, so?”

“Oh wake up Lizzy! You cannot seriously be considering a relationship with someone like that.”

“Like that?” Quite aware that her mother knew exactly how to push her buttons, Lizzy refused to lose her temper. Silently she counted to five before continuing, “Mother, if you have something to say to me about William, then you better just come out and say it. His past has nothing to do with our future.”

“`Our future'? Did you say `our future'? His past has everything to do with your future if you were to have a relationship. He has a child, Lizzy!”

“Yes, mother, he does. I didn't realize that his being widowed with a child could offend you so. And I'll tell you now, William and I are seeing each other and plan to continue. I don't have a problem with this and neither should you.”

Clearing her conscience completely, Mrs. Bennet commented, “Don't you think that he takes too much from this family as it is?”

“And what does that mean?”

“Can't he handle his own problems? Normal people take their children to daycares, but oh no, not him. He has Jane practically raising his son, and now you seem to have become smitten with him. What's next?”

“Mother, Jane and I are adults, we make our own decisions.”

“Let's get to the bottom line here Lizzy, how involved are you with William?”

“Mother, I really resent having this discussion with you. Christmas is coming and when we come to see you, you'd better hold your tongue. I expect you to take the next week and a half to get used to the idea that William and I are in a committed relationship, and yes, that relationship includes his son. Have I made myself clear?” Not waiting for a response, she ended the conversation bluntly by hanging up the phone. The anger waved through her and her hands started to shake and the tears fell.

The following morning, Lizzy woke to the phone ringing. Upon answering it, she found it was Jane.

“I spoke with mom this morning, what in the heck is going on Lizzy?”

“She's lost her marbles!”

“Do you want to talk about it?”

“Not really.”

“How was your trip then?”

Thinking about the warped way her mother was looking at William's relationship with her and Jane, she stammered, “Okay, I do want to talk about it. Do you know what our argument was about last night? It was about mother having some psychotic episode over my involvement with William. Can you believe that?

“She didn't tell me what the fight was about. She said you were tired, short, and unreasonable with her last night.”

“Yeah, I was unreasonable when I wouldn't see things her way; I wouldn't agree to stop seeing William.”

“She didn't suggest that?”

“Oh yes she did, and other things that would make your blood boil if I had the gall to repeat them to you Jane.”

“Well, I want to know what happened; tell me.”

“I can't right now, got to get ready for work.”

“Lizzy, call me when you get home tonight. Promise me!”

“I've got to go.” With that said she hit the end button and tossed the phone onto the foot of her bed.

Lizzy looked awful. Her eyes were all puffy and swollen from crying herself to sleep. She felt like she had the weight of the world on her shoulders. While getting prepared for the day, she searched for some happy thoughts to ease the nauseated feeling in the pit of her stomach, she thought of William.

They had the best time while in Las Vegas. During the days, she put in her time at the hair shows, at night she quickly learned why it was labeled the `City that never sleeps'. Recalling Caesar's Palace, she actually started to feel a bit better. This was her favorite place that they visited. The forum was full of shops and was simply a remarkable environment. Walking through in the mall, the ceiling overhead was painted a beautiful azure color and occasionally, drifting clouds passed through. The atmosphere this painting provided actually allowed you to think that you were outside shopping. It was amazing. At the end of each wing there were magnificent sculptures which were also animated during interval shows. The way that they carried out the theme throughout the entire casino really left quite an impression on her.

The daily routine and responsibilities soon brought her back to the present problems as she headed out the door to work. She really didn't know what to do about this situation. All I can do is hope for the best from mother. Then again, Charlotte said something similar when I told her about seeing William. I don't understand why this should be such a hang up for them if it doesn't bother me. My goodness, what will they think if… The thoughts of that night frenzied her. She had managed to block it from her memory until now that William was going to propose that night. The prospect of that nearly scared her to death, yet gave her the most euphoric high at the same time.

All of this was too stressful from any aspect. Panicked and in lack of a better idea of how to deal with these issues, she marched over to the phone and unplugged it from the wall to escape these family problems. Then she left to bury herself in work.



William had felt lonely and in a state of despair since the trip to Las Vegas. All of the mixed signals that Lizzy had sent him throughout the weekend weighed on his mind and a question still remained; who's the other William? Nearly a week had passed since their return. Attempts to call her only frustrated him more with a busy tone. His heart was breaking.

It was a gray and overcast day; the green grass was lush and had grown tall from the rainfall. He found himself standing at the grave of his late wife. William bent over and pulled the long blades away from the marble headstone before laying down three white roses. “For you…your favorite.” Kneeling down, the dampness of the ground quickly permeated the fabric of his jeans, but he didn't really care. He came to her as a lost soul.

Listening for a moment, he heard the wind whistling through the trees and the muted sound of the train in the distance.

“I miss you!”

Immediately he heard four sudden bellows of the train's whistle, almost as if she was sending him the message, `I miss you too.'

“I've been so angry at God!”

“I need you to know how difficult this has been. How difficult it has been to live without you.” He dropped his head and sat in silence while collecting his thoughts.

Whispering, he continued, “I will never understand why He has taken my family; all the people I love.” His voice elevated. “If there really is a God, then He would have answered my prayers and took me instead of you.” William's voice had become strong with the resentment. “Damn Him!” he yelled.

Feeling a drop of rain he looked up into the dark sky. Focusing back on her, he reached out and placed his fingers on the engraving on the smooth granite. It felt cold as ice as he dragged his fingers across her etched name.

“As convincing as all this sounds, life has gone on without you.” He knew it was time to let go and perhaps that is why this was so difficult for him. He could hear the birds chirping in the tree nearby. He zipped up his coat as the wind chilled him through.

At last, he spoke again. “I wish you could see Will, he's getting so big. Just the other day, he gave me that look, the one you used to give me when you're upset. I couldn't help but laugh.” For the first time since her death, he shared his life with her.

“We're potty training… I'll tell you, it takes a great deal of patience and he seems to get as frustrated with me as I get with him,” he chuckled at the thought.

“Christmas is almost here,” he continued softly, “we have a tree up this year and Will loves it. At night, he likes to lie down on his back under the tree and stare up into the branches…crazy kid gets memorized by the lights.”

Growing very solemn again, he shared, “It breaks my heart that you're not here to see your son growing up.”

William brought his hands up to the collar of his coat and flipped it up to protect his face. Changing the subject a bit he continued sharing with her.

“Jane and Charlie are doing well. They're expecting a baby in the spring… Things are going well at work. Charlie and I manage to hold down the fort.”

“Georgie will be coming home in a few days for the holiday break. I guess she will have about ten days off and I'm sure Will will love that.”

He stood now before continuing. “I've met someone. We've been seeing each other since the summer. She's really something. We've had some problems lately and I have a feeling it is because of me.”

“You know, anyone could love me, but it takes someone as special as Elizabeth to love little Will too.” Feeling the emotional toll this was taking on him he took another deep breath. “I love Elizabeth and she'll be here for us, but she'll never take your place Anna.”

Nothing compares to the emotion of love, and he loved two women.

Moved by the moment, he sighed deeply and then shared one last poem with her.

“Time is a healent of a soul laid to rest.
Peace is a virtue, no regrets.
Love is a gift you shared with zest.
An angel among us I'll never forget.”

And William turned and walked away; away from the past, he was finally willing to accept the future and all it held for him.

Chapter Fourteen

Reaching over, Lizzy turned off the lights as she was leaving work; she had closed yet another night this week. Dreading tomorrow, she realized that there was no hiding; it was her day off.

She had fretted this week about relationships. Loving William is easy. Knowing it may come at the cost of angry feelings between me and my family is difficult, she thought. Tonight, she intended to speak with her mother again and hoped to reason with her.

On her drive home, Lizzy committed herself to resolving this problem right away. Picking up her cell phone, she hit the speed dial for her parent's number.

“Hello.”

Instantly relieved at the sound of Mr. Bennet's voice, she let out a breath she didn't realize she was holding. “Hi Dad.”

“Lizzy, how are you?”

“I'm okay, and you?”

“Fair to middlin'.” Mr. Bennet replied with an inflection of amusement in his voice.

“I called to talk to mother,” she stated, “we didn't leave off on the best note the other night.”

“You can say that again. You're all she has talked about since.”

“I can only imagine,” she commented in a somewhat patronizing tone.

Mr. Bennet made an effort to comfort his daughter. “You know your mother honey; she wouldn't know what to do with herself if she wasn't meddling in other people's business.”

“Dad,” she hesitated before continuing with her question, “Mother said some things the other night that really upset me.”

“Well Lizzy, I'm sure that goes both ways.”

“What I meant to say, is that she thinks I shouldn't see William. She said that you both felt that way.”

“I won't speak for your mother, but I'll tell you what I think on the subject if that is what you're asking.”

Pausing a moment to ponder, Lizzy wondered if she really did want her dad's opinion. She never saw eye to eye with her mother, all her life she had accepted that. Her dad's opinion though, she held in much higher regard. After a moment's thought, she lifted her chin and replied, “Daddy, this has been upsetting me all week long. I love you both, but I love William too. Why can't mother accept that?”

“I agree with your mother that this is a complicated situation and we worry about you.”

“And?”

“And I haven't seen you this happy in a long time, dear.”

A smile crossed Lizzy's face as her father gave his approval. As she suspected, her parents didn't concur on this subject. With renewed assurance, she requested once more to speak with her mother. Her father wished her luck, which they both knew she would need, before summoning Mrs. Bennet to the phone.

Not five minutes later, Lizzy found herself pulled off to the side of the road, so she could concentrate on the debate she was having with her mother. She slammed the phone down onto the passenger seat after being abruptly disconnected by her mother while defending her relationship with the Darcy's. This isn't good; not at all. I can't believe the audacity of that woman. To tell me that I shouldn't see William is one thing, but to then attempt to belittle our relationship, that's another. Fine with me… Yes it is, mother!

Rage and disgust were the dominant emotions she found herself battling tonight. Apparently, I was expecting too much of her to respect my decisions and judgment. And to think that I actually wasted this week with her thoughts weighing on my conscience, I'll bet she didn't give mine any consideration at all. But the icing on the cake tonight was that she had uninvited the Darcy family to join the Bennet family for Christmas. What in the hell was she thinking? Did she really believe that blackmailing me would get her what she wanted? Well, she's about to have a rude awakening.



With school closed for the last two weeks of the year, Lizzy decided to pack her bags and head to Idaho.

She felt terrible that she had missed William's calls during the week while trying to avoid her family. And after the argument last night with her mother, Lizzy had been so angered that it wouldn't have been fair to call him then. Praying that he would forgive her when she explained this entire mess, Lizzy drove towards his home.

The trip went smoothly and soon she was pulling into his driveway. It was absolutely breathtaking. She had yet to see his home in the winter and the property was serene. Her car crept up the winding gravel driveway and just before the crest she braked to allow a deer and baby fawn to cross the road. It amused Lizzy that they seemed such docile animals, blithely glancing at her as they took their time passing. Once they had cleared her vehicle, she tapped on the gas and the sounds of the gravel crunching under the tires resumed. She pulled up along side of Georgie's Honda and parked.

Nervously, she turned off the ignition and sat there in seclusion. The knot in her stomach grew when she noticed William in the distance at the stables with the ranch hand.

Lizzy saw that William and Randy were in conversation until the ranch hand motioned towards her car. As William's attentions turned towards Lizzy, she didn't notice a change in his expression upon seeing her. Disappointed in herself for coming without calling first, she wondered what he was thinking.

William began to walk towards Lizzy's car. He was surprised to see her and pleased she had come, but he still proceeded with caution. After all, she had ignored him this week. He knew this was his opportunity to make things right and was a bit anxious of the outcome. He loved her and didn't want to do anything to jeopardize her trust. He felt that in some ways he had let her down, and he wanted to redeem himself right now.

William approached the driveway as Lizzy got out of the car and tried to cheerfully holler a greeting. Walking up to her, he stopped an arms length before her and just stared. Damn, she's beautiful. It took all his will to resist kissing her. The uncomfortable tension between them from the lost week made him avoid looking her in the eye. That's when his eyes caught a glimpse of the luggage in the backseat of her car. His eyebrow peaked with his curiosity. “What's with the suitcases?”

“Well,” she began as her downcast eyes now moved up and paused on his, “the truth is I made this trip so that we can talk. Is now a good time?”

Unsure of what to make of this, he tensed even more. “Fine. Would you like to come in and have a cup of coffee?”

“That sounds nice.” She replied and followed him into his house.

William didn't speak as he moved about the kitchen preparing the coffee.

Lizzy expected to see little Will and Georgie, but the house seemed empty when they entered. The sound of William shuffling about the kitchen was the only noise in the house. Curious, she inquired, “I saw your sister's car outside…”

“They're taking a nap.” he replied, without letting her finish her sentence.

His behavior was making this reunion all the more unsettling for Lizzy. After having a seat at the table, she asked in genuine concern, “William, are you alright?”

“Yes. And you?” he questioned in return, as he approached the table and sat down across from her.

“Well to tell you the truth, I've been better,” her voice quavered a bit.

William lost forethought with that confession and reached across the table and took her shaking hands. “What is it Elizabeth?”

His touch made her heart soften and her spirit strengthen. She drew in a deep breath and sat up tall before offering an explanation. “I need to apologize. This past week has been hell, which is why I avoided my family. Mother called last week to let me know she doesn't approve of our relationship. That was hard to hear. So, I've had to do a lot of thinking this last week and really take stock of my life. And after a very long week, the one thing I'm certain of is that I want to be with you.”

William was the one prepared to offer apologies, for he felt he had helped get them to this place of doubt. But now knowing that her mother and family were mostly responsible for her distress, he couldn't believe what he was hearing; it angered him. “Your parents don't approve of me?”

“Well, my mother is upset that I'm involved with you.”

“May I ask why?”

“I'm not exactly sure myself at this point.” Lizzy withdrew her hands from his and brought them up to her forehead.. She was never one to `beat around the bush', so taking a deep breath , she continued, “In one conversation, she stresses that it's the fact that you're a father and in the next it's that you are too involved with Jane and I, and she considers you manipulative.”

William laughed.

Rather than elaborate on this subject any further, she quickly stood, walked around the table, and sat on William's lap. She threw her arms around his neck and placed a light kiss on his lips. Pulling back she distanced herself a moment to notice the expression on his face; he was smiling at her. Beaming now, Lizzy exclaimed, “Everything's going to be alright!”

And he agreed.



Jane was finally feeling physically better. Overcoming morning sickness was triumphant. Unfortunately, she knew miserable days were ahead while her family was dealing with this chaos. Her mother and sister were still butting heads. They were both so adamant that their view was the only one that Jane simply couldn't foresee improvement of this situation anytime soon. And Christmas was nearly here.

Feeling truly alone in this battle, Jane was deeply saddened. She couldn't manage a rational conversation with her mother. Her dad's motto was that if he ignored it, it would eventually be resolved. Even Charlie was indifferent. Although she would never question her husband's family values, she knew that he and his siblings did not have a close relationship. She felt that this made it impossible for him to relate to what she was going through.

Why wouldn't Lizzy take her calls? Worried about her sister, she wondered if Lizzy had been in contact with William either. Giving in, she decided to call before she went to bed.

After several rings, the message machine picked up. “This is the Darcy residence, if would like to leave you name, number, and a brief message, I'll get back to you. Thanks.”

Jane was terribly frustrated, but left a brief message. “Hi William, this is Jane. Please give me a call when…”

“Hello Jane!” Lizzy answered, thrilled to hear her sister's voice.

“Lizzy?” Jane questioned with surprise.

“Yes, it's me. You caught us bringing in groceries.”

“I… I don't know what to say.” Pausing for a moment, she contemplated reprimanding Lizzy for not returning her call last week. “So, it's safe to assume that you and William are speaking?”

“Yes, now we are,” she replied charily, “We've had a long talk today and I think we've worked everything out.”

“How come you didn't call ME back?”

“Jane, I just needed some time to think about things. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings.”

William stopped after he set down the bag on the counter and he walked over to Lizzy. Placing his hand on her shoulder, he stood there to lend her support.

“Well, you have.”

“I'm sorry for that.”

“So what have you decided to do about this family mess?”

“Ignore it.” Lizzy said with a shrug of her shoulders. She then realized how good it felt to admit she wasn't going to fret anymore.

“Ignore it?” Jane mimicked what she'd heard. “What exactly do you mean by that?”

“I mean just that. I'm no longer allowing mother to control me.”

As her frustration level elevated Jane felt conscience of the need to control her tone. “Why this argument, Lizzy?” she paused only long enough to draw in a breath before continuing, “Why do this to the family now, at Christmas?”

Finding it hard to believe that she was having this conversation with Jane, of all people, Lizzy recalled the countless times that they were each other's crutch of sanity growing up in that household. After a glance over her shoulder to William, she chose her words wisely, with a cool and calm answer, “Because he's worth fighting for.” Before she continued, her voice became curt and her jaw set. “And as far as the implication that somehow I'm disappointing the family, I'll presume you threw that comment at me because I told mother that I would not come where the Darcys were not welcome.”

This conversation with her sister was both futile and redundant; she agreed with her sister's case and point. It was the end result that bothered her so. “I don't disagree with you Lizzy,” Jane fought back the tears that welled up in her pale blue eyes, “I just want the family to be together for the holiday. After all, that's what it's all about, right?”

“I love you, Jane.” Lizzy paused a moment as she was trying to discern the noise from the receiver, she quickly recognized her sister's muffled sniffles. With certain knowledge that pregnancy makes one over sensitive at times, Lizzy made effort to proceed with prudence. “Don't cry, Jane. We're adults now and we live scattered through the Northwest. You must know that it will become more and more difficult for us all to get together so regularly.”

Giving in, Jane replied, “I know. But this will be the first Christmas that we will not all be together and it's very upsetting to me.”

“Look at you, you're starting a family. Soon traveling all the way to mom and dad's will be quite the expedition. I'll bet the little one will slow your visits down a bit as well.”

With a deep and long sigh, Jane dried her damp cheeks and asked her sister once again, “So, you really aren't coming?”

“No Jane, I'm not. I'll bring you over some presents before you leave. Will you hand them out for me?”

“Of course.”

“Jane, really, I want you to go and have a wonderful holiday.”

Hanging up the receiver, she turned around and stated, “Well, I hope I'm welcome to stay.”

“The selfish and manipulative me wants nothing more.” He said with a wink. “But, are you sure that's what you want?”

Lizzy wrapped her arms around his waist and replied, “I'm positive.”
 

Chapter Fifteen

Surprisingly, it was a dry and clear Christmas Eve; virtually unheard of in the Northwest. With that, Charlie and Mr. Bennet decided on spending the day out on the golfing greens.

"Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose." Barry Manilow's voice carried throughout the Bennet household. At one time, this was a very comforting Christmas tradition to Jane, but today, she sat in the family room alone wallowing in self pity.

Sitting in the wingback chair, feeling the warmth of the fire in front of her, provided little comfort at all. Mesmerized for a short while by the dancing flames, the song stole her attention once again. "Though it been said, many times, many ways, Merry Christmas tooooooooooo you." She couldn't help but think that this Christmas would be anything but merry.

The three youngest Bennet sisters were all giddy as they prepared to go caroling with a group from the church. Their happiness was anything but contagious to Jane, who could concentrate on little other than how much she missed Lizzy. Over her sister's squeals of delight and anticipation, Mrs. Bennet's voice came booming from the kitchen, "Jane. Oh Jane dear, where are you?"

Jane didn't want to answer her mother; instead, she preferred to sit there in hiding. With determination, she refused to respond to her mother.

"Jane!" Mrs. Bennet summoned her once again, this time in a more aggressive tone.

Unenthusiastically, Jane sighed as it was becoming clear to her that her mother wasn't going to let it be. She replied in a false cheery voice, "Yes mother. I'm in here."

"Come into the kitchen dear, I could use your help," Mrs. Bennet's tone made it clear that her summons was an order rather then request.

After a few more lazy moments, she took a deep breath and forced herself out of solitude and into the kitchen.

On her way down the hall, Jane found her anger rising. She knew what her mother wanted; needed rather. Mrs. Bennet was such a procrastinator and always put off all preparations for the holiday dinners until the last minute. As Jane came through the kitchen doorway, there stood her mother, up to her elbows in flour. "Mother!" was all she managed to say before gasping at the site and the mess Mrs. Bennet had made.

"Can you help me out, dear!" Her mother's eyes were large and her jaw was set.

Jane wished her mother would let the children prepare the holiday dinners especially now that they were all matured and skilled enough. It irritated her to no end that Mrs. Bennet would always insist on preparing the meals alone, always managing to make a thorough mess of things before calling in the girls in to the rescue. She felt her face flushing as she battled this inner argument.

"Well!!!" Her mother shrieked in utter panic.

Clenching her teeth and rolling up the sleeves on her blouse, she begrudgingly set to work.

After twenty minutes or so in silence, Jane decided to bring about conversation now that she had had some time to cool off. "When are Aunt and Uncle Gardiner arriving?"

Mrs. Bennet, who stood at the island sink peeling potatoes paused a moment and looked up at her eldest daughter. "Just before dinner. I told them I would serve at six."

She prodded, "Do they know that Lizzy won't be joining us this year?"

"Jane dear," her mother cooed with a sheepish grin, before looking back down to the potato and resuming her actions to the tasks on hand, "Lizzy will be here."

As Jane had been removing casserole dishes from the cupboard, they shifted and almost fell when she was startled by her mother's comment. "Oh?"

"Of course she'll be here. I raised my girls with good family values."

Perplexed, Jane continued, "Mother, I spoke with Lizzy and I really believe that she's not going to change her mind."

Her mother looked up from the sink once more, this time Jane noticed her eyes were dark. "See. See the disturbance that wretched man, Darcy, causes in your life, Jane."

That comment took Jane completely by surprise. "Darcy… wretched? What on earth are you talking about?"

"I always thought that you'd do something great with your life, Jane. You are smart and intelligent and I had higher aspirations than you just playing house."

With that comment, her eyebrow raised and the thoughts raced. She kept her voice low and controlled while rebutting her mother's comments. "First of all, Darcy is my husband's best friend and business partner. He's thoughtful, kind, intelligent, and educated. Second of all, so am I. If I choose to 'play house' mother, that's my decision. You were, in fact, a stay at home mother. And in your day it was common. In today's world it is more difficult for people to sustain the lifestyle they want on only one income. I'm grateful each and every day that my husband can provide that for me."

Cutting Jane off, Mrs. Bennet sneered, "I was a stay at home mother and I had five children. Last time I checked, the only one you have isn't even your own."

"No mother," Jane retorted, "Will's not mine. The little boy in question is one with special needs. Again, I choose to take care of him; not only because of his asthma but also because he is my God child." She paused only a moment to catch her breath before continuing, "This is an arrangement that Charlie, William and I made together and we're all pleased with how well it has worked." Jane finished up her summation with a stern stare that was to tell her mother she was not to be reckoned with.

Mrs. Bennet quickly averted her eyes from Jane's glare and looked down again to the potato in hand. She dropped the spud in the sink and wiped her hand off on her apron before looking back up at her daughter. "Let's just drop this conversation dear. It really doesn't matter because I know that your sister will be here any time." With that, she lifted her chin and set about putting the pot of water onto the stove.

Jane just stood staring at her mother in utmost astonishment and thinking, Lizzy, don't you dare change your mind. Mother certainly could stand to learn a lesson or two from this.



Lizzy woke this morning to the gay sounds of laughter in the center of the Darcy home. Rolling over on to her back, she lay in bed a few minutes and just savored the moment There really was something therapeutic about a child's happiness.

A few minutes later, she heard a hearty knock on her door before it swung open. Looking over to the doorway, she saw William with a breakfast tray in hand.

Smiling, Lizzy asked, "For me?"

"Yep. How'd you sleep?" With a broad grin, he moved swiftly into her bedroom and over to the bedside to offer her a cup of coffee from the tray.

Lizzy quickly sat up and scooted back against the headboard before reaching for the handle. "Thank you!" She said before taking a gulp. "I slept well."

"You're welcome."

"So what are we going to do today? I mean, what's a Christmas Eve traditionally like in the Darcy household?"

She noticed his eyes glimmering as he asked enthusiastically, "Have you ever been on a horse?"

"Well it depends. Are you asking if I've been on them before or if I'm skilled on them," she paused a moment, chuckling. "Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I have occasionally had the opportunity to go on guided tours when we traveled to the coast or the mountains; but out just riding, I have not."

"Today's absolutely gorgeous," he said setting the breakfast tray down on her lap. "Georgie said she'd watch Will. So, what do you say, are you up for an adventure?"

"Well," she replied gazing at the scrambled eggs and toast and then back up to him, "Once I eat, it'll take me about a half hour to get ready. How's that?"

Leaning over, he placed a light kiss on Lizzy head and then sat down on the edge of the bed.

Lizzy looked admiringly at him. Loyalty, gratitude and love were her feelings for the man sitting beside her.



Onward and upward the pioneers moved, their goal being the 'Great West'. The twenty five hundred mile trek proved to be fruitful as the clan found fertile lands that could be claimed.

Reaching Idaho, they formed a proficient community with the little they had to survive on. Satisfied with all the amenities; suitable farming lands with rich soil, sufficient water, abundant grass and plenty of wood, they set to work.

Having lived inside their covered wagons with their offspring and limited to starvation rations of food during their travels, it took the settlers little time to build adobe homes and log cabins. Luckily, their venture proved to be a wise one in the years to come.

William could only imagine the sweat and blood, the tears of joy and sadness, the sickness and health that happened within the confines of the small two room cabin. This one still standing on his property was built in 1849. He thought it was truly amazing how well it had weathered the years.

Having received great pleasure from this little area of serenity, occasionally he had hoped that a milestone could be shared here from his life. Until this past week, William hadn't considered that it could happen today or with Lizzy.

The sun fell in sporadic rays down through the wooded property making the frost glimmer and seemingly appear to dance upon the branches of the trees. A few winter birds flirted about the trail that was leading their horses deep within the estate.

Reaching the pond, the horses came to a stop. Dismounting, William was impressed with how well Lizzy did for an inexperienced rider. He looked over to her and pointed at it. He had never brought anyone here before, yet to share this place with Lizzy gave him a great sense of pride.

Lizzy was finding a renewed appreciation for the outdoors. As a child, she never really enjoyed camping, hiking, and swimming; but now with a little age and wisdom, she felt like she was seeing things again for the first time. The ride out was refreshing and the beauty of the woods had not escaped her attentions. Now, looking over the frozen pond, she truly admired nature.

"This is my place." He boasted.

"It's humbling, isn't it?" Turning her head to take in all her surroundings, she caught a glimpse of smoke coming from the chimney and then the small cabin. "Wow, that's something you don't see everyday," she replied with a nod in its direction.

Smiling, he replied, "No. It's not."

Lizzy started walking towards it at a curious pace. Before long she was taking the front porch steps two at a time. She could hear William's footsteps right behind her. Without turning around, she asked, "How old is this cabin?"

Thrilled with her fascination, he responded, "Just more than a hundred and fifty years."

Flabbergasted by the craftsmanship of the quaint quarters in front of her, she reached out her hand and ran it across one of the wood logs; almost as if to make sure it was real. She felt chips and nicks in the wood, and upon further inspection, it appeared to be arrowheads. "Boy, if these walls could talk." she thought aloud.

William opened the door and motioned for Lizzy enter.

Walking into the cabin was like stepping through a window in time. It remained untouched by modern conveniences. The open room had all the necessary amenities within the small space. The look on Lizzy's face told William that she was just as impressed with this treasure as he was. William's eye quickly perused the rooms to make sure everything was still in place. Antique pieces of furniture were scattered sparsely about and adorned with oil lanterns. The bed on the left was made with a modest collection of old quilts. The table off to the right of the door boasted a beautiful lace table cover and a potted poinsettia centered atop. Everything was perfect. He noticed Lizzy's eyes pause only a moment at the small box wrapped in elegant gold paper nearby.

Moving past her, he crossed the room and put another log on the fire that was burning. Turning back to her, his heart began to race. He fought off the waves of doubt and concern, surely she wouldn't reject his proposal again, he thought. This last week with Lizzy was nothing less than heavenly in his eyes. It reinforced his deep feelings for her; he knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. Bringing Lizzy here and seeing her reactions only built up his confidence. He felt that finally, everything was right.

Picking up the small gift-wrapped box, he held it up and calmly stated, "I want to marry you Elizabeth."

Lizzy stared at him for a moment before the tears welled in her eyes. She had never felt a yearning as powerful as she did for this man.

Before she replied, he move closer, reached over and took her hand and turned it within his and kissed her palm. It sent a shock through her and she gasped, and he kissed the same spot again, feeling her tremble.

"Yes," she said with a loving expression in her eyes. "Yes."

He let a grin spread up one side of his mouth…slowly as the weight of her words sunk in. Pulling her closer, he gently placed a long and lingering kiss upon her mouth.

He handed her the box and watched her open it. The happiness and her consent to marry made him feel elated. "Oh my!" Lizzy gasped at the sight of the one carat marquee cut diamond solitaire.

William reached into the box and pulled the engagement ring out. Reaching for her left arm, he ran his hand down it until he found her hand. Lifting it up, he placed a light kiss on her finger before slipping the ring on it.

Lizzy was momentarily speechless.

"You're beautiful. so beautiful!" He uttered in a ragged and licentious breath. "I want you!"

Leaning in, they locked in feverish kisses. Soon his moist lips left hers and moved down her neck. He caressed her breasts through her feminine articles of clothing.

With strong, deft fingers he began to undress her, slowly running his warm hands over her graceful curves. For a long moment he just looked at her, visually exploring every inch of her attractive body.

Once again he awoke passions within her. She reached out and helped him remove his sweatshirt, before caressing his chest. As she touched him, he sucked in a shuttering breath. Then she moved a little lower and helped him remove his jeans.

William aided her, tugging at his clothing, tangling himself for only a moment and then tossed the garments aside. He gently ran his hands over the contours of her breasts, her stomach, and her thighs. He parted her, sliding his fingers down to her warm dampness. It caused him to tighten inside. He felt himself harden even more.

Taking her by the hand, he laid down on the bed.

She hovered over him, staring down at him for just a moment, whispering, "I love you."

Feeling the need to be in control, he slowly rolled over atop of her before replying, "I love you too." Once Lizzy settled on her back, he felt her hands move frantically across the muscles of his buttocks. "You feel so good Elizabeth. Tell me what you want… anything."

She wanted nothing more as this was bliss. Still he touched her, kissed her, and caressed her in myriad ways, whispering, "Like this? Like that?"

And she whispered back, "Yes, like that… oh yes."

Again his mouth found hers and then she reached down between their bodies and guided him into her. With a single bold thrust, he entered her as she held her breath. She was hot to the touch, heat radiated from every nerve with the pleasure from being stroked.

Now pumping rhythmically, he nuzzled her neck and shoulders, his breath growing increasingly warm and ragged.

She was making sounds that nearly drove him over the edge. He groaned as the swirling sensations engulfed him, rendering him thoughtless for a moment in time. Then he shut his eyes.

Her breath was hot against the hollow of his neck. She tensed and called out his name when as he pleased her.

Slowly at first and then harder and faster he thrust again. He moved deeper, so far inside her it was as if she had blended with his flesh. Their separateness faded when she absorbed him into her. Her hands, body and mouth, told him how much she loved him, wanted him and wanted to give him.

The sounds he made proved to be the source of his pleasure. He came shuddering and then collapsed, falling upon her. When his pulse slowed and his breathing evened, she ran he fingers through his hair. Again and again, slowly, and he shivered once.

After a spell of silence, he lifted his head and gave her a kiss full on the mouth before moving to rest beside her.

"Merry Christmas, Elizabeth."

With a smile of satisfaction, she repeated, "Merry Christmas."

to be continued...

 

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