Green Wellies And Ascot Races

By Anna J.K.

Jump to new as of August 22, 2001
Jump to new as of August 26, 2001

Chapter One; Uptown Boy.

Posted on Friday, 25 May 2001

Liz Bennet was packing up her market stall in Spitifields Market (1), stacking up empty boxes and lugging the remains of her flower stall into the back of a filthy, white transit van. She was carry a large box containing some rather wilted flowers when a tall man, with dark hair and broadish shoulders walked right into her. The box turned upside down and it and its contents smashed onto the floor and Liz lost her balance and ended up on the floor as well. The man looked upset and after mumbling something he started quickly walking away. Liz couldn't believe it and yelled, 'Hay, come bac' 'ere, you! Look wat you done! I wan' compensa'ion. Oi you!'

The man turned reluctantly and scowled at her. The sight that met his eyes was surprise. For some unknown reason; well perhaps know to the man, he hadn't expected the owner of such a voice to be at all attractive. The young woman sat on the floor of the market was dress in a scruffy pair of jeans, a large baggy T-shirt, a padded waistcoat of sorts and a pair of green Wellington boots. She had a grubby, heart-shaped face, full red lips, large brown, almond shaped eyes and wavy, rich mid brown hair pulled back in an untidy pony tail.

'Look I'm sorry about that. Let me help you up. He said offering her his hand.

'No thanks, I can manage.' Liz said, getting up

'Well, at least let me help you pick this lot up.' He said uninterestedly.

'No, I'l do it. I just wan' compensation.' Liz said determinedly

'Well, umm... I haven't got any money on me.'

She arched her eyebrows and folded her arms. 'Don't tell me, you left you wallet at home?'

'Well, yes, actually I did.' The man said

'Yeah, course you did and I'm the Queen.' Liz said sarcastically.

'I did, really!

You couldn't be the Queen anyhow, you don't speak the Queen's English. In fact I don't know what English you do speak.' The man cried at first and became slightly sarcastic

'Well, you're ain't so perfec' yourself, your highness!

'Now I wan' you to give me compensation or I'll get the police and say you are hara'sing me.' Liz cried angrily

'Now, don't over react. My friend will be along in a minute and he can give you some money.' The man said wearily

'Oh, alrigh'. I suppose that'll do.' Liz said despondently.

A few minutes latter a shorter, slimmer man with sandy hair appeared and on seeing the man he walked up them quickly. Liz had tidied the stuff up, locked her van and was patiently waiting just slightly away from where the man was standing.

'What's the matter Will?' He said

'I knocked into this gir..woman and I need to you to compensate her for the wilted flowers I knocked on the floor.' Will said, sighing

'You left your wallet at home again. You should be careful about that. Georgy or Car might start stealing your precious money.' The man said, smiling

The man turned to Liz and said, 'He's always leaving things behind or forgetting things. He's hopeless really, that's why he needs me.'

'You his fairy godmother then?' Liz said, seriously.

The man laughed and smiling at her said, 'Yes, something like that.'

Liz smiled a little; she like this man, he didn't treat her like an idiot or look at her as if she was something the cat dragged in. He wasn't like the other man, Will as he had called him.

He gave her a note and as soon as he did, Will said, 'Come on Rob. We need to get back.'

'All right Will, you go on. I'll catch up with you in a minute.' Rob said and Will quickly walked away.

'So, what's your name. My careless friend neglected to tell me.' Rob said.

'He neglect to ask my name. It's Liz, Liz Bennet.' Liz said, smiling.

'I'm Rob, Robin Fitzwillin in full.' Rob said, shaking hands with her.

'I'm Elizabeth but everyone calls me Liz.' Liz said

'Liz it is then. You work here every day, Liz?'

'Yes, course I do.'

'Good, well I might come and see you then. Bye Liz.' He said and walked off.

'Bye Rob!' She called after him. She looked at the note, it was ten pounds, nearly twice as much as the flowers had been worth. She smiled and walked over to her van. It would be good to meet Robin again, she liked him.

1 Spitifields is the oldest market in London; they have found roman remains there. It is in the centre of the city of London in the middle of high rise offices and guess what? They want to sell the land and build a nice new office block there. So much for the British conserving their history; only if its convenient it appears.

2 Couldn't you just smack him one. Perhaps we could get 'two jabs' Precott to do it!

Chapter Two; Two Very Different Types Of Hell.

Posted on Sunday, 27 May 2001

Liz drove her van in the garage and started to empty the rubbish out into one of the many metal dustbins. She then looked up the boot and the garage, carefully avoiding the barking dogs and the screaming kids playing football she walked over to concert mass that contained the soulless council flat she, her younger sister Lucy and Lucy's two year daughter Jade lived in.

The large block of flats should have been pulled down even before it was build in the 1960s, it was stark, depressing and covered in graffiti. The stairs and floors had unpleasant smell, the was violence and crime everywhere and it was not the sort of place anyone would want to live let alone bring up a child.

Liz unlocked her smart, newly painted, blue front door and was met by the smell of bacon, something burning and jade screaming her head off. Home, Sweet Home she thought as she wearily closed the door behind her. She took off the green wellies and the sort of padded waistcoat, hanging it in the hall and leaving the boots by the door. She went to change in some clean clothes, have a shower and firstly see what was burning.

'Why are we rushing Will?' Rob said as they both jumped into a taxi.

'I promised Car I would be back before six.' Will said

'You sound like a married man.' Rob said grinning, he was a confirmed womanising bachelor.

'I am nearly.' Will confused

'What!' Rob cried horrified

'Car and I are engaged.' Was the grave reply

'Will are you insane?! Do you know what your beloved ex-wife is going to say about this? And what about Amy? Is Car going to be happy about your daughter living with you?' Rob cried wildly.

'I don't care what Catherine says, Car and I want to get married. She'll be fine about Amy living with us like she's fine about Georgy.' Will said crossly.

'You haven't told Car that Amy is going to live with you have you?

Beside Will, Georgy is nearly grown up and Car knows she only has to wait a few more years before she leaves. Amy is only five, Car will have wait an awful lot longer for her to leave home.' Rob said disbelievingly.

'No I haven't told Car yet! She's had a lot on her mind recently now please butt out of life Rob!' Will yelled angrily.

'Sorry Will. It's just I don't want you to get hurt, I want you to be happy. I want you to marry someone you love and who loves you for you not for your money.' Rob knew better than to start a real argument with Will.

'I expect I'll forgive you as long as you stay away from that girl we met today. I wouldn't trust if I were you.'

'Well, I'm afraid you wont be able to forgive me then. I liked her and I'm going to see her again.'

'Very well but I've warned you.'

'Don't you worry about me, I've had plenty of experience with women.' Rob said, laughing.

'That's why I'm worried.' Will said grimily. That dark eyed girl was now starting to play on his.

Liz reluctantly got up from in front on the TV and took three plates out to the kitchen. Lucy followed, leaving Jade happily scribbling away with crayons.

'I'll do the washing up Liz. You relax.' Lucy said

'OK, thanks. I had weird day.' Liz said, padding back to the sitting room in her slippered feet.

'Why?' Lucy said, starting to wash up.

'Some stupid guy walk'd right inter me as I was tidying up.'

'Did you get compensa'tion?'

'Yeah, his friend had to pay. He didn't have no money but his friend gave me ten quid.'

'Yeah?'

'Yeah. He was nice, he was. His name was Robin Fit'willi'm.'

'Oh, Robin Fitzwilliam you mean Elizabeth.' Lucy said putting on her best 'posh' accent.

'Oh yes Lucy, Robin Fitzwilliam.' Liz said laughingly, doing the same with her voice. Both them bust into a giggling fit for a few minuets until a bewildered Jade started to grizzle.

Liz scooped her up onto her hip and turning on the Radio started to dance round the room to a pop song. Jade immediately stopped crying and began to smile. Liz pulled her up and began to spin round. The little girl began to laugh and throw her arms round her slightly mad Aunt's neck.

Liz collapsed onto the sofa as the song finished, with a flushed face and her giggling niece. She was forced to move by the door bell ringing.

'I'll get it Luc.' Liz said and picking up Jade she went to the door. She opened it and had the unpleasant sight of her mother and a young black man of twenty-two standing on her door step.

'It's Mum and Joe, Luc.' Liz called and then looking at them both said, 'I 'spose you wana come in.'

'Yeah, that would be nice Liz, 'specially considering I've made some food for you ad Luc.'

Her mother said and went into the sitting room, dumping a load of plastic boxes and metal tins on the low coffee table. Joe, Jade's father took his small daughter off a reluctant Liz and she began to scream her head off. Joe looked terrified and held her away from him which naturally gave Jade the impression that she was going to end up on the floor and so she screamed even more desperately trying to get hold of her father for security. Joe began to panic and Liz quickly stepped in and took hold of Jade, holding her close to her and stroking her masses of black curls.

'What's wrong with 'er? Why does she always scream when I have her?'

'Probably 'cause he doesn't know who you are and you are always unhappy to hold her!' Liz said crossly.

Luc came through and taking Jad she gave Joe a wilting look.

'What you doing here?' She said unhappily.

'Your mum...' Joe began.

'I brought him here Luc, I though you two could go out too night. I think you should get back

together.'

'No way Mum! He went left me as soon as he knew I was pregnant and went out with all my friends! He tried to get me on drugs Mum! Thanks to Liz he didn't, now get him out of here!' Lucy cried.

'Luc don't be stupid.'

'No Mum, you don't be stupid! I've done with being stupid, I've already messed my life up once, I ain't doing it again.' Lucy said determinedly.

'Right, fine I'm going. But I warn you Luc, this ain't the end of this!' Joe threatened menacingly.

He brushed passed Liz giving her an evil stared and slammed out of the door.

'Now look what you've done you stupid...girl!' Mrs. Bennet yelled and stormed out, slamming the door after her.

Rob sat next to Will's younger sister Georgina they glanced at each other and then looked with horror at Will's fiancé, Caroline.

'It's a gorgeous ring isn't it Robin?'

'Umm... yes very nice Car. It's very large and umm... beautiful.' Rob said tactfully, looking at the meteor of a diamond on Caro's engagement ring.

'I know, it does make you speechless doesn't it Rob. I know I was when William gave to me.'

Car crooned.

Rob felt asking for a bucket but instead said,

'You speechless Car, I can't imagine that.' Will glared at him but Car seen completely insensitive to the intend insult and so Rob carried on with,

'So when is the happy day to be?'

'In a couple of months, we have to get everything organised and Will has to tell Amy that she won't be able to live with us for a good while. There is also the matter of Pemberley to deal with, I mean we'll have to sell it.'

Georgiana tried very hard not to choke on her drink and Rob felt all colour drain from his face.

'Don't look so shocked Robin, you know that old place is not practical.' Car said getting up and starting to clear the table.

'Car and I have both agreed that selling Pemberley is the best thing to do.' Will said, following Car out into the Kitchen.

As soon as he was gone Georgina desperately whispered,

'Sell Pemberley, has he gone completely mad ! Rob what are we going to do!'

'I don't know but this serious, deadly serious! Caro's brainwashed him, she's somehow suck his brain out and replaced it with complete stupidity! Will vowed he would never sell Pemberley.' Rob whispered back wildly.

'I think Car put a spell on him, she must be a witch!' Georgina said.

'That or she's replaced Will with a clone! What are we going to do? She has to be stopped!'

'I know but how?' Georgina said desperately.

Rob paused for a moment, 'I think I know. Yes, I think I know.' He said.

Chapter Three; A Diamond Duchess In The Dirty Rough.

Posted on Thursday, 31 May 2001

As soon as Liz saw Rob approaching her stall she smiled and waved at him. He waved back and walked up to her.

'Thanks for yesterday, here's that extra money. You gave me far too much.' Liz said, pressing some coins in his hand.

'Don't be silly Liz, keep it.' Rob said, smiling gently.

God, he's a charmer isn't he, better watch you don't get burnt Liz. She thought as she reluctantly accepted the money back.

'How's trade today then?' Rob said.

'OK, I'm going on lunch soon, you wanna share a sarnny and a cup of stewed Tea with me?' Liz said, positively beaming at him.

'Sounds lovely but how about I get you something more exciting and we talk. I need you do to help me.' Rob said, it was a good thing he was a confirmed bachelor.

'Me help you?' Liz said incredulously.

'Yes, I need you to stop my friend, the one you met yesterday, from ruining his life for a second time.'

'Ho' can I do that? I'm just a marke' stall owner who can't speaker proper.' Liz said doubtfully.

'Like what I does?' Rob said grinning. God this girl was attractive, he though. He would have to be careful, she might burn him. She reminded him of Audrey Hepburn in 'My Fair Lady' only she was much more charming, pretty and not so elfin and thin.

Liz laughed and said,

'Yeah, somethin' like that.'

'Look I'll go get some launch and then we can talk.

By the way you ever seen, 'My Fair Lady'?' Rob said, he could resist in asking.

'What the musical? I've seen the film with Audrey Hepburn.

Why?' Liza said, slightly puzzled

'Oh well, I think you look about Audrey Hepburn. You're a bit like Eliza too, you are a flower girls of sorts.' Rob said gently.

'Yeah I 'spose I am. I always liked that film, I always used to sing to all the songs. I sometimes wished I really were Eliza.' Liz admitted, slightly embarrassed.

'You are, your a modern day Eliza Doolittle.' Rob said.

'Oh wouldn't it be lovely!' Liz cried and Rob darted of with a grin like a Cheshire cat.

As they sat by Liz's stall munching burgers and chips and sipping milkshakes Rob told an amazed Liz all about everything that had happened.

'I think you're right. He has been brainwashed. But how am I going to help? I don't think he was too keen on me yesterday.'

'Firstly you are going pack this lot up and come with me. We have to go shopping.'

Liz stared at him.

'Don't worry, I'm paying and I just need you to trust me, I'm going to turn you into a lady. Can you trust me?'

'Yeah, I think so. But one thing, I need to go home first and I have to warn you it ain't very nice.'

'All right, I think I can brave it for you.' Rob said.

'Careful Rob, I might fall in love with you if you are too nice.' Liz warned seriously

'Oh, but Eliza Doolittle never really considers Freddie does she?'

'She would have if he had been you. Besides, you're can't be Freddy as Eliza doesn't meet him until they go to Ascot. You're Colonel Pickering.' Liz said serious at first.

'Oh great! Well, I warn you Will is even worse than Henry Higgins.'

'Professor 'enry Higgins and no one could be that bad.' Liz said getting up and staring to pack up.

'Oh really? He's a Professor of English Language at Cambridge University.' Rob said doubtfully, helping her put the stuff into her van.

'Oh. So how am I going to speak properly in time?' Liz said disappointedly, she rather liked the idea of being a lady for at least a little while.

'I have friend, well an acquaintance who owes me one.'

'What you do? Save his life.' Liz said.

'No, but I introduced him to his wife.'

Liz laughed and said, 'You're a matchmaker ain't you!'

Chapter Four; A Pair of Dark Eyes.

Professor William Darcy was staring out of the widow of his office at his London home, trying very hard not to think about the dark haired girl he had seen at Spitifields two days ago. The image of her sitting on the floor among the wreckage on her flowers kept replaying over and over again and the sound of her laugh echoed in his ears. Despite her voice and who she was it had done him no good trying not to think her about her and now he was thinking about her he thought he was going to go mad.

He threw his pen down, shoved his chair back and darted out the room. He had to see her again or he was going to do something he regretted and be dragged off to a an asylum. Car would have him dragged off to an asylum as soon as they were married and then she would have all his money, sell his beautiful ancestral home, chuck Georgy out into the cold, cold snow and his five year old daughter would have to stay with her mother for ever. Oh God what had he been thinking! What had Car done to make him agree to sell Pemberley and leave Amy with her mother? She must of brainwashed him but he wasn't going to worry about that now, firstly he had to find that girl. He thought as he headed towards Spitifileds.

He saw her and as he walked towards the stall he realised she had changed. Her hair was curt in bob, her clothes were new, she even had new green wellingtons and she looked tidy and clean. She turned from serving a customer and she was wearing a small amount of make-up. He realised that she beautiful and he found himself smiling at her.

She saw him and she did not look pleased,

'Oh, it's you.' Liz said.

'I ...umm came to say I'm sorry about what happened.' Will said.

'Really?' Liz said doubtfully.

'Yes and I would like to make it up to you. Would you have dinner with me tonight?' Will replied hopefully.

'I can't I'm already going out and what about your girlfriend?' Liz said.

'You've been talking to my friend Rob haven't you?' Will said crossly.

'Yeah, I have. He's nice isn't he? He thinks I'm Eliza Doolittle.' Liz said smiling.

'Who? Oh, yes, I know, from 'My Fair Lady'. Well, maybe you are but Rob is strange so I wouldn't worry him.

My girlfriend, my fiancé is away at the moment and I would really like to have to have dinner with you.' Will said, seriously.

'I told you I'm busy and I'm going to bust every night from now on.'

'Rob?' Will said miserably.

'No, Wilfred Collins.' Liz grinned.

'Wilfred...but he's married!' Will cried.

'I know, his wife is lovely ain't she? Shame about Mr. Collins.' Liz said.

Will stared at her and said,

'You mean Charlotte knows?'

'Yeah, she was there.' Liz said puzzled.

'She was...your not having an affair with Wilfred Collins are you?' Will said, looking bewildered.

Liz looked at him as if he was mad and busted in hysterical laughter.

'I guess not then.' Will said quietly. He hated being made a fool of, especially when he did to himself.

'No I ain't! I'm becoming a ...I'm doing some work there, for Mrs. Collins.'

'Oh, well maybe I could ring you?'

'I 'spose it's safe to give you me number. If it's not me who answers it will be my sister Lucy.'

'Oh right .

How old is your sister?'

'Eighteen, two years younger than me.'

'Oh, I see.' Will said surprised. He had no idea she was so young, eight, nearly nine years younger than him.

Chapter Five; The Rain In London.

Posted on Sunday, 3 June 2001

Liz sat opposite Wilfred Collins trying very hard to say, 'The rain in Spain falls mainly on the Plain'in her best voice without dying from hysterical fits of laughter.

The door opened and Liz was able to breath, sip some water and recover some what. It was

a heavily pregnant Charlotte Collins with a tray and two cups of Tea.

'Charlotte, you know I hate to be disturbed when I'm working.' Wilfred said, slightly frustrated.

'I'm sorry but I thought Miss. Bennet, Liz would like a break. You have been working for nearly an hour.' Charlotte said putting the tray down on the table and handing them the two cups.

'Have we? Oh well, in that case I think we can a break. Thank you Charlotte.'

'How is the pupil getting on?' Charlotte said smiling at Liz.

'Very well. Elizabeth is an excellent student. We should easily meet Robin's target of Ascot.'

'Ascot?' Liz cried, losing her 'nice' accent.

'Oh didn't Robin tell you? He wants to take you to Ascot in month.' Wilfred said.

'What!' Liz cried even more horrified.

'Robin wants to meet some of his friends or something. Now sit down Elizabeth.' Wilfred said wearily.

'No way! I'm ain't doing that!' Liz said and jumped up.

'Liz, sit down, it will be all right.' Charlotte said calmly.

'Sorry Mrs. Collins but ain't doing it I can't.' Liz said and darted out the room.

'Now what you and your big mouth have done Wilfred! Charlotte cried and stormed out the room. Wilfred shook his head and shrugged his shoulders.

As Liz ran across the street attempting to stay dry she hardly noticed where she going and smashed right into someone. She looked up to see who was and was met by a pair of smiling eyes and handsome face.

'Oh, I'm so sorry.' Liz said, not realising she was speaking 'properly'.

'It's quite all right. Are you all right?' A luxurious voice asked gently.

'Yeas, I'm fine, it's just I seem to be having a terrible week. You're the second man I've walked into.'

The man laughed and said,

'Are you careless or is it a hobby of yours to walk into strange men?'

Liz smiled and said, ' Neither, the first man actually walked into me.'

'Oh, I see Well, can I suggest we get out of the rain?' The man said.

'Yes, that's a good idea.' Liz said smiling.

The man offered her his arm, she took it and very quickly run down the road and into a conveniently placed Pub.

'Would you like a drink?' The man said taking their soaking coats, hanging them up and admiring the young lady standing before him.

'Yes, that would great. Gin and tonic please.' Liz said

'OK, I'll just get it. Why don't you go and sit down you and I'll bring it over.'

'Liz turned away, thinking that she was be completely mad to accept a drink from a stranger but he was very handsome. Handsome, he was even more gorgeous than Professor Darcy. That should be impossible but this dark stranger was a true gentleman as well as being tall, dark and everything women usually fell in love with.

'So, what's you name?' The man asked, coming back with the drinks.

'Liz, Elizabeth Bennet.' Liz said.

'I'm Guy, Guy Wickham-Hill.' he said shaking hands with her.

Chapter Six; Never Judge A Man By His Appearance.

Posted on Wednesday, 6 June 2001

'Thanks for the lift Guy.' Liz said climbing out his car.

'You really live here?' Guy said doubtfully, looking at the flats.

'Yes, I'm afraid so. You see, I'm what you think I am Guy.' Liz said and paused, ' I ain't no lady. sell flowers in Spitfields, I'm a modern day Eliza Doolittle. She said in her normal way.

Guy stared at her moment and bust out laughing. Liz grinned and said,

'How'd you know where this place was so well?'

'Oh, I've been here before. I used to have a friend who lived here.' Guy said, slightly uncomfortably

'Yeah, what happedn'd to him?' Liz said surprised.

'He took an overdose.' Guy replied.

'Oh I'm sorry.' Liz said gently.

'It's okay.

Now you better get back before it rains again.' Guy said, surprisingly calmly.

'Yeah, bye, see you Guy.' Liz said, closing the door.

'Bye Liz.' Guy said.

She walked away slowly and he drove off. She run up the stairs and unlocked the door. The flat was silent, strangely so.

'Luc! Lucy, it's me. Luc where are you?' Liz called out, closing the door the behind her.

The was the sound of same muffled called and movement and Liz quickly went to the bathroom. She tried to open the door but it seemed to be locked.

'Luc, are you in the bath?' Liz said, there was more mumbling and suddenly Liz had a sense that something was wrong.

'Lucy, I'm coming in.' Liz said and throw herself up against the door. It smashed open and there was Lucy, holding Jde, gagged and tidied up.

'Oh God Lucy! What happened?' Liz said horrified, taking the gag off Lucy.

'Joe and a mate of his came round, I let them in but them Joe was trying to get me to take some stuff and when I said no he tried to attack me. I struggled and in the end he and his mate decide it would be fun to tie us up.'

' Go and sit down, I'll get you some tea and I'm phoning the police.'

'No, Liz, he said he would get his dealer round and then we all be dead meat!'

'Not if I'm here we won't.'

'But this dealer, Guy, I thin' Joe said his name was, is rich. He's boss of this 'hole area, Liz!' Lucy cried, putting Jade on the floor and sitting down as Liz went into the Kitchen.

'Well, the police will be happy won't they?' Liz replied.

'Liz, why you talking like that?' Luc said curiously.

'Like what?' Liz said from the Kitchen

'Properly.' Luc said.

'I don know, those lessons are working I guess.

Now what did you say this dealer's name was?' Liz said, bringing out a cup of Tea

'I think Joe said it was Guy, something like Guy Wickham. I think was two surnames.' Luc said, taking the cup and sipping it.

Liz stared at her,

'Not Guy Wickham-Hill?' She said disbelievingly.

'Yeah that could have been it.' Luc said, not sure.

'No, it can't be. It wouldn't be him, I bet it was something like that though. The Police will find them.' Liz said, going into the hall

'Liz' Luc said.

'Yes Lucy?' Liz said, picking up the phone.

'Stop talking like that!' Luc cried, picking Jade up and holding her tightly.

'Sorry!' Liz cried, smiling and then set about phoning the Police.

After they had eaten, there was a phone call from the Police saying they had arrested both Joe and his mate, for they attack and they had found a whole cash of different drugs in Joe's flats. They need Lucy to come down to the station to tell them exactly what had happened. Liz drove Lucy down there and sat entertaining Jade while they interviewed Lucy.

Chapter Seven; Without her.

Will had waited until Caro was seated in front of the Televsion after dinner to say,

'Caro we need to talk. Actually I need to talk and you need to listen.'

Caro stared at him and then smiled artfully she said, 'Oh, I love it when your commanding Will. Go on.' She turned the Television off and sat expectantly.

'Car, I don't know what you gave you the impression I would ever sell Pemberley but I'm not going to. Also there is no way I'm letting Amy stay with her mother any longer.'

'Will! I'm sorry but!' Car cried, amazed and horrified.

'No buts Car. Now if you have a problem you can give me that ring back and get out.'

'No, I don't want that. I'm sorry, Will. We wont sell Pemberley and Amy can come whenever you want. I don't want to lose you Will.'

'Good, I don't want you to go either Car. I love you.' Will said, as soon as he said those words the image of Liz started to run round his head. I can do without her, I must I love Car. I love Car, don't I? Don't I? This girl is just a fancy, it's nothing, is it? Yes, just a stupid thing, I love Car. Oh God but she was so beautiful, her eyes, oh god those eyes!

Liz had just said, 'In Hertforshire, HampsHertfordshireefordshire, hurricanes hardly ever happen.' perfectly and without dying of hysterical laughter. Rob had not been so helpful, he had come to see how Liz was getting on and had ended up being sent out but Wilfred as he had giggled too much. He was now sitting with Charlotte, Lucy and Jade in the living room. He had heard the tale of what had happened to Lucy two nights ago and he was shocked. He decided that they needed help, they needed someone to look after them and being a confirmed bachelor is wasn't going to be him. If only he could get her to Ascot.

He gave them a lift home and went up to the flat, relieved to find it was clean and quite tidy.

'Are you going to do it Liz? Are you going to come to Ascot with me?' Rob said, sitting down.

'I think so, as long as you promise me one thing?' Liz said, saying good night to Jade and Lucy.

'Anything.' Rob said truthfully.

'Just look after me and remain a gentleman.' Liz said, sitting down opposite.

'Of course, I'm a confirmed bachelor. I can't promise anything for Will though.' Rob said happily.

'All right, that will have to do. Now when are you going to help me find the right clothes?' Liz agreed grudgingly.

'Tomorrow.'

'Okay, about ten.'

'Sure, I'll come and get you and Liz,' Rob said getting up,

'Yes,' she said, following him to the door.'

'You can speak as you used to with me.' He said.

Liz laughed, opening the door and said,

' Night Rob, see ya tomorrow.'

He grinned and turned a way. Liz closed the door, sighed, smiled and happily went to collapse in front the television for half an hour before going to bed. May be her life was better than she had ever thought before. Maybe it was getting better, especially since she was meeting Guy tomorrow night. Now there was a man she really would have watch out for, she must be very careful not to get burnt.

Chapter Eight; Ascot Opening Day.

Posted on Wednesday, 20 June 2001

After a long morning shopping, Liz felt completely exhausted. Rob was not very much help and Liz was need of help. She had some launch and then went to make herself beautiful for Guy. Lucy and Jade were going to spend the night with Mrs. Bennet and so the flat was quite. Liz had just washed her hair and was towel drying when there was a knock at the door.

'Typical just typical!' She cried, throwing down the towel and going to the door. She was surprised to Will standing there.

'Wha' you want?' she said, not exactly happy to see him.

'I had to see you, Liz. We need to talk.' He said seriously.

'Guess you should come in then.' She and closing the door behind him followed him into the sitting room.

'I'm sorry if I disturbed you.' He said, looking at her admiringly.

'It's all right, I was just drying my hair. I'm going out later.

Do you want a drink?' Liz said, picking up the towel.

'Umm, no thanks.

Liz, why are you talking like that?' He said, rather confused.

'Oh, you posh? Well, I've been having elocution lessons, thanks to Rob.' Liz grinned and went into the bathroom.

'What! I suppose Rob wants to present you into his circle.'

'Will, what century do you live in! Anyway, it isn't for Rob, it's for you.'

'Me! Why? What? Liz!' He cried, looking at her for an answer.

She bust into a fit of laughter and took his hands.

'Oh Will, you are very blind for so intelligent man. Rob and your beloved sister have been planing to match make you with me or they were. Now you know I suppose that won't happen any more.'

'Liz, I came here to ask you something and tell you something.'

'Had I better sit down, you sound very formal?'

'No, it's all right.'

'Well, go ahead then.' She said, loosing her hands from his.

'Liz I came to tell you, that you have been driving me insane. I can't get you out of head, I can't stop thinking about you. I think I'm falling in love, no I don't think, I am insanely in love with you. It's mad I know but I can't help. You've bewitched me.' He said, looking at her very gravely.

Liz was very quite for a few moments and then said,

'Maybe I should have sat down. This is a shock, Will. I don't know what to say.

I'm very flattered but you know I don't feel the same.

Perhaps you had better ask me the other thing you wanted.'

'I was hoping that you would come to Ascot with me. All three days, it starts in a two days and I would honoured if you would agree to come with me.' He said.

Liz stared at him a moment and then bust out laughing again.

'Rob was going to take me so we could meet anyway! Oh Will, you should have asked me that first!'

Will smiled and then said, 'So will you come?'

'Of course. Now I have to get ready and I expect Caro will have your dinner on the table by now.'

'Oh God, Caro. I had forgotten her, I'll have to tell her soon and you're right. I have to go and cook dinner.'

'You cook?'

'Of course.' He grinned.

She smiled, she liked him when he smiled and then they went to the door. She bestowed a kiss on his check, shut the door, sighed and went back to get ready.

Chapter Nine; Washing A Man Out Of Her Hair.

Posted on Sunday, 15 July 2001

Liz sat on the sofa looking fed up, she had decided she hated men. Not necessarily all men, just a particular man at this moment. Guy had not come to pick her up. It was now nearly nine, he should have been there at about half past seven and there had been no sign of him. Liz had phoned his mobile and his home number and there was no reply. As she didn't know where he lived she could go round there and smash his face in so she had taken off her evening dress, got ready for bed and was sat consoling herself with a large hot Chocolate.

She was wondering why he hadn't bothered to come when there was knock on the door. Reluctantly she got up and went to open the door.

Guy was standing their shame faced and looking very embarrassed.

'What are you doing here? Or perhaps you don't know your an hour and half lat.'

'Liz, I'm sorry, I'm really sorry but something came up. I mean to ring but I lost your number.'

'Really, how convenient. I can't believe you are so lame Guy!

I tried to ring you on both your phones, why could I get hold of you?'

'I was out on business, I couldn't have my phone on. I'm really sorry, Liz. What can I do to make up for it?'

'You can get your foot off my door step and get out of my life.'

'Liz! I really like you! Liz, I think...'

'You don't ever think, now get lost Guy!'

'But Liz...'

'No buts, get lost or I call the police.'

'OK, OK calm down. I'm going, but I promise you, You'll definitely see you again.' Guy said, concerned. He removed his foot form her doorway. She slammed the door, locked and bolted it and he sulked off down the passageway.

She throw herself on the sofa and buried her face in her hands. Oh what a fool she was!

'Will,' Caro said, leaning over the sofa were Will was collapsed.

'Yes, Caro?' He said looking up into her face.

'I'm so sorry but I wont be able to come with you to Ascot. I've got to go over to Brussels for the company, I'm very sorry.'

'Oh, well I sorry you won't be able to come. I'm sure I survive.'

'You seem have been surviving well with me here anyway, Will.'

'Yes, I'm sorry about that. It's just I've been very busy.'

'Well, as long as it's not another girl then I don't mind, but we do need to talk when I get back.'

'You are right Caro, we do need to talk.' Will said, getting up. 'Caro I have to tell you the truth, I have been thinking about another girl.'

'What!' Caro screamed.

'Nothing has happened, nothing will but I can't get her out of my mind.'

'I hate you, you, you...' CarO yelled and a cushion came hurtling across the room.

Will ducked and it flopped on to the floor.

'That's it I'm leaving. I'll go to my sister's, don't try to call me and don't ever come into my life again! I've had enough of you, your pathetic little sister, you spoilt brat and that damn house!' CarO said furiously and stormed out of the room past Georgina. Will shook his head and Georgina said,

'Guess you've got another Tonn of emotional baggage you wont to off load on Robin and I.'

Chapter Ten; Absolutely Thrilling.

Posted on Sunday, 29 July 2001

Lucy stood staring at Liz. She was dressed in her Ascot outfit and ready to go.

'You look amazin' Liz. Wha' wo'd Mum say.'

'She'd be shock'd.'

'Yeh, she sure wo'd.

You tak' care now Liz. Mak' sure he treats you right.'

'I will. He will be a perfect gentleman.' Liz said in her best voice.

Lucy laughed and then there was knock at the door.

'It'll be him. I'll go. You stand there and look amazin'.' Lucy said, going to the door. She opened it and stared at Will in his Ascot grey suit, his top hat in his gloved hands.

'Come sir, your lady awaits.' Lucy curtsied grandly.

Will grinned and went into the sitting room. He stopped in the door way and stared. It was no longer a grubby market girl who stood before him but a dark haired angel.

Liz smiled and said, 'Well, am I fit for the ball?'

'Yes, you look, you look just amazing. You got everything you need, Princess?' Will said, smiling a little.

'Yes, it's in the hall.'

'We better go then.' He said and dumbly followed her into the hall. He picked up her two suitcases and with kiss bestowed on Lucy by his lady they left the flat.

He put her cases in the boot and stood looking at her.

'I can't quite believe it's you. It's just too amazing.'

'I can't quite believe it either. It's like a dream come true.' Liz smiled.

'Come on Princess, we have to go.' He said taking his hat off and getting into the car.

'Yes, your highness.' She grinned and carefully got in.

They drove off and out on to the road heading towards Royal Ascot.

Robin stood nervously with Georgina, waiting for them to arrive. He saw the car pull up, Will get out Put on his hat and go round to the other door. He opened it and put his hand out. Liz carefully slipped out. Will locked the car and the shinning pair walked over arm in arm.

'Hello Rob, how are you?' Liz said, smiling broadly as they reach them.

'You look, you look amazing Liz!' Rob said, trying to scoop his jaw of the ground.

'That's what I said,

Liz, this is my sister, Georgina or Georgy as we know her. Georgy this is Miss. Elizabeth Bennet.' Will said, giving Rob a meaningful look.

'Now there's an introduction Mr. Darcy, should I curtsy?' Liz said archly and then putting out her hand said,

'Hi Georgina, it's great to meet you again. I can't say your brother has spoken about you a lot but then your brother and I have rather short and strange conversations.'

Georgian looked bewildered and half smiled not sure to make of this girl and shaking her hand said,

'It's nice to meet you too Elizabeth, my brother has mentioned you a few times.'

'Come, on you lot, the Queen is arriving and the first race will start soon.' Rob said and taking Georgina's arm the two couples set off.

Chapter Eleven; It Never Rains But Tipps It down.

Posted on Saturday, 18 August 2001

After seeing the Royal party arrive and watching the first race they all wondered off to get some champagne and decide their bets for the next race.

'Are you all right?' Will said, handing Liz a glass.

'Yes, I'm fine thank you. This is lovely Will, really lovely.' Liz said, slightly wistfully.

Will grinned for a moment thinking of another young lady in a certain musical.

'You sound a bit down, are you sure you're okay?' He said.

Liz paused and reluctantly said, 'I think we need to talk. Can we go somewhere quite?'

'Yes, of course.' Will said and as he turned to tell Georgina and Robin, Liz wandered off.

Will ran up to her and was just take her arm when she turned to face him.

'Will, please don't.' Liz said tearfully.

'Liz, what is it?'

'Listen, this aint, isn't going to work. I'm not meant for this, I'm no lady, I aint a princess. I don't love you, you know that and I can never be want you me to be.'

'Liz, you can be anything you want! You'll always be my princess, please, I adore you.' Will cried, with unusual emotion, grabbing her arms.

'Will, let go!' Liz cried, freeing herself.

'You don't love me, you love what you and Rob have created, this not me, I can't be something I'm not. Understand will, you and I are from different worlds, I'm just a flower girl and you just work because you want to. You're like some dream to me, I'd love to love you but I can't. We are too far apart and I can never love you, though I know all about you, I know you will love this invention of me and not the real me! Good bye!' Liz said, throwing her hat on the floor and then fleeing in tears.

Will stood dumbfounded for a minuet and then desperately called out, 'But I love you Liz, I love you! Love conquers all, Liz, we could make it work!'

'No, it doesn't Will, not for east end flower girls.' Liz called back, turning a minuet and giving Will a desperate glance before she fled again.

Will put his head in hand and kicking the grass, turned and returned to Rob and Georgina.

Liz run desperately, how was she going to get home? What was she doing? How she needed someone to help her.

Suddenly Liz realised that she had run into someone, she looked up and to her surprise and displeasure she found she was looking up at Guy Wickham-Hill.

'Guy! What are you doing here?'

'Oh I always come, I might ask the same question of you Liz, I had no idea you might be here, but now I've seen you, we can talk' Guy said calmly, though slightly menacingly.

'I'm here with a friend, but we've had an argument. I'll talk to you if you'll take me home.'

'Yes, okay. I'll take you home and then we can spend sometime together, um?' Guy said, putting his arms round her waist.

'Guy, please. I just want to go home and have a good cry.' Liz said, trying to remove his tightening grip.

'Well, I can be your shoulder to cry on then, can't I?' Guy said forcefully and he went to kiss her.

'No, don't!' Liz cried, fighting him off and slapping him round the face.

Guy stared at her and then grabbed hold of her arm and dragged her to his car. He throw her in the back of the car and climbed in after.

'No one, refuses me, understand that!' Guy hisses, whipping out a small pen knife, pressing against her neck and breathing alcohol on her. 'Now, your going to sit there and not say a word until I get you home.' He said, slamming the door and going round to the driver's side.

He slammed the door and screamed off, driving like a made man. He drove faster and faster, speeding down the motor way and then suddenly turning of on to a tiny little road,. He did not slow down and on racing up a steep hill, Liz realised that they no longer on the road as the came off the top the hill, but they were flying through the air.

'Guy, we're going to crash!' She screamed and covered her head with her hands as she felt the car begin to plummet to the ground, luckily she was wearing her seat belt.

Chapter Twelve; Not All That Glitters.

Posted on Saturday, 25 August 2001

Liz opened her eyes and decided that everything hurt, there was a bright white shining on her and the whole area in front of her eyes seemed to be white, she was praying she wasn't in heaven when Lucy's voice said,

'Liz, you awake? I'm 'ere Liz, I'm 'ere with Jade.'

'Luc?' Liz said, turning her head to see her gently smiling sister sitting by her bedside with Jade.

'I'm 'ere Liz. You're okay, You were knocked unconscience, you're badly bruised and cut and a broken arm but you're okay.' Luc replied.

'The car accident? Was Guy...' Liz said, closing her yes at the memory and swallowing hard.

'Guy was killed instantly, he was throw straight through the front window.' Luc said, looking down.

Liz winced and said, 'Your were right Luc, Guy was dangerous. I'm sure you were right about him being the drug supplier on the estate.

'He was, the police have been question everyone involved with him, including Joe.' Luc said uneasily.

'You're not to blame for any of that Luc, that's all the past. We'll move someone where else and start again, um?'

'Well, I've been living with that Mr. Collins and his wife since your accident. I needed someone and Mum was no use so I rang up Mrs. Collins. She invited me to stay there, she needs help with her new baby and the housework so she's paying a little and giving me lodging for my help. She said she would be 'appy to have you too when you were well, least until we were sorted.'

'Well, maybe, but I don't want to impose on her.'

'Liz you've gone back to your posh accident.' Luc said grinning.

Liz turned her head away,

'I don't wan' to remember that par' my life, Luc. I'll never see Will or Rob again and I don't wana.' She said, choking back her tears.

'Oh, that's a shame, cause Will's come to see you when you where sleeping yesterday. He's come all three days you've been here but you've always been sleeping.'

'Wha'! Really?' Liz cried, jumping up and wishing she hadn't.

'Yes, really.' Luc said, surprised.

Liz smiled a little and lay back down carefully.

Chapter Thirteen; All I Want is...

Will sat miserably looking into his empty coffee mug.

'What's the matter Daddy?' His daughter Amy asked, climbing up besides him.

'I'm missing someone I like very much Amy' He said, looking up.

'And Daddy wont go and see her, even though she's been out of hospital for two weeks now.' Georgiana said, coming into the room.

'Why? Is Daddy cross with her Aunty Georgy?' Amy said, hanging over the top of the sofa to see her Aunt.

'No, he's not. He's just being stupid about women again, Amy. Now come and help me in the Kitchen.' Georgina said.

'Is this one like Caro? I hope not 'cause I didn't like her.' Amy said frankly, hoping down from the sofa.

'No, she's not, she was nice and Daddy was mad about her.' Georgina said, taking Amy' hand.

'If you like her Daddy you should go and rescue her and marry her and then you would live happy ever after like they do in Cinderella and all fairy stories.'

'Maybe you should listen to you daughter, Will.' Georgina said and went of into the Kitchen.

A few minuets latter there was a ring at the door and Georgiana went to get it. Will didn't hear this and was still sitting miserably when a voice said,

'I washed me face and 'ands before I came.'

Will jumped up and turned with amazement to see Liz, standing before him. She was neatly dressed, her face adorn with a beautiful smile.

'Eliza! You came back.! You came back!' He cried and grabbing hold of her and spinning her round.

Elizabeth screamed, struggling free. Will would not let go of her though and putting her down, he kissed her. Her arms slipped round his neck until they were disturbed by Amy shouting.

'Aunty Georgy, Daddy's been rescued by the Princess!'

the lovers broke apart and fell apart laughing.

'Well, I'm a modern princess.' Elizabeth said grinning at Amy.

'Yes, but Daddy still has to marry you on both knees.' Amy said, worriedly

'Yes, he does.' Will said seriously and knelt down by Liz, holding her hands in his.

'Elizabeth Bennet will you marry me?'

Liz stared at him and said, 'Only if I don have to get your slippers for you.' She said grinning.

'Never, I swear.' Will said, barely controlling his laughing.

'Of course I will marry you Will.' Elizabeth said kneeling down by him. 'Of course I will.'

Amy grinned and ran to her father, throwing her arms round his neck. Georgina happily followed and received an welcome kiss on the cheek from Elizabeth as she helped her up.

'Happy ever after, Daddy?' Amy asked as he got up holding her..

'Happy ever after Amy, thanks to my modern fair lady.'

Finis.

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